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American grdntoess:

CONSISTING Or

A COLLECTION OF AUTHENTICK RECORDS, STATE PAPERS, DEBATES, AND LETTERS AND

OTHER NOTICES OF PUBLICK AFFAIRS,

THE WHOLE FORMING

A DOCUMENTARY HISTORY

OF

THE ORIGIN AND PROGRESS OF THE NORTH AMERICAN COLONIES;

OF THE

CAUSES AND ACCOMPLISHMENT OF THE AMERICAN REVOLUTION;

AND OF

THE CONSTITUTION OF GOVERNMENT FOR THE UNITED STATES,

TO

THE FINAL RATIFICATION THEREOF.

IN SIX SERIES.

FIRST SERIES.

From the Discovery and Settlement of the North American
Colonies, to the Revolution in England, in 1688.

SECOND SERIES.

From the Revolution in England, in 1688, to the Cession of
Canada to Great Britain, by the Treaty at Paris, in 1763.

THIRD SERIES.

From the Cession of Canada, in 1763, to the King's Mes-
sage to Parliament, of March 7th, 1774, on the Proceed-
ings in North America.

FOURTH SERIES.

From the King's Message of March 7th, 1774, to the Decla-
ration of Independence, by the United States, in 1776.

FIFTH SERIES.

From the Declaration of Independence, in 1776, to the De-
finitive Treaty of Peace with Great Britain, in 1783.

SIXTH SERIES.

From the Treaty of Peace, in 1783, to the final ratification
of the Constitution of Government for the United States,
proposed by the Convention, held at Philadelphia, in 1787.

BY PETER FORCE.

I'REPARED AND PUBLISHED UNDER AUTHORITY OF AN ACT OF CONGRESS.

:9i

AMERICAN ARCHIVES:

JfourtJ) Series.

CONTAINING

A DOCUMENTARY HISTORY

OF

THE ENGLISH COLONIES IN NORTH AMERICA,

FROM

THE KING'S MESSAGE TO PARLIAMENT, OF MARCH 7, 1774,

TO

THE DECLARATION OF INDEPENDENCE

BY

THE UNITED STATES.

BY PETER FORCE.

VOLUME II.

PUBLISHED BY M. ST. CLAIR CLARKE AND PETER FORCE,
UNDER AUTHORITY OF AN ACT OF CONGRESS, PASSED ON THE SECOND OF MARCH, 1833.

■i<»<e»«»"

WASHINGTON, OCTOBER, 1839.

03

:n

CONTENTS

OF THE SECOND VOLUME OF THE FOURTH SERIES.

177

CORRESPONDENCE, PROCEEDINGS, ETC.

March Letter from the General Committee of Charles-

1, town, S. C, to the New- York Committee,
expressing their disapprobation of the course
pursued by the Assembly of New- York, and
their determination to adhere to the Resolutions
of the Continental Congress at all hazards, - 1
Instructions from the Freeholders of Cumber-
land County, Virginia, to John Mayo and Win.
Fleming, their Delegates in the Assembly, - 3

1, Address of New- York Committee to the Free-
holders and Freemen of the City and County
of New- York, recommending the choice of
Delegates to the Continental Congress, - 4

Address to the Soldiers ordered to embark from

Ireland for America, 4

Address to the Commons of Great Britain in
Parliament assembled, oa the policy of the
Ministry in regard to America, advising the
repeal of the Acts which have produced the
present disturbances, ----- 5

1, Meeting of the Governour and Council of North-
Carolina. The proposed meeting of a Provin-
cial Congress at Newbern in April declared
to be highly derogatory to the dignity of the
Legislature appointed to meet at the same time, 7

1, Proclamation of Governour Martin. The pro-
posed Provincial Congress is contrary to law,
and a violation of the Constitution. All good
subjects are exhorted to discourage such meet-
ings, cabals, and illegal proceedings, - - 7
Feb. 22, Camillus to the Printers of the Pennsylvania
Gazette, in reply to a Boston writer, who
charges the Americans with having an entire
independence on the Mother Country in view, 8
March Camillus to the Printers of the Pennsylvania Ga-

1, zette, in defence of the course pursued by the
Americans in their opposition to the measures
of the British Government, 10

1, Resolutions of the Committee of Inspection for

Newport, Rhode-Island. A Free Press,
while it supports truth, liberty and justice,
to be supported — when it is prostituted to
vile purposes is to be discountenanced and
discouraged. All persons advised to discon-
tinue Rivington's Gazetteer, 12

2, Letter from a Gentleman in London to his Friend

in Boston. Lord North has no further conci-
liatory measures to propose. When the Colo-
nies come to an unconditional submission, the
repeal of the Bills of last year will be consid-
ered, 13

2, Committee of Essex County, Virginia, acquit
Captain Joseph Richardson of an intentional
violation of the Association. They offer a
Premium to encourage Arts and Manufac-
tures in the Colony, - - - - - 13

2, Remarks on the late manoeuvres in America, by
a real Friend to his King and Country. Vir-
ginia and Maryland condemned for joining
with so much warmth the New-England Re-
publicans, ------ 14

2, Address to the Inhabitants of New- York, on the
application of publick moneys to secret service
in America by the British Government, - 15

2, Tea burnt at Providence, Rhode-Island, - - 15

Fourth Series. — Vol. ii.

March Letter from Samuel Adams to a Gentleman in

2, Virginia, acknowledging receipt of Donations

for the Poor of Boston, - - - - 16

2, General Gage and the Provincial Congress of
Massachusetts; collision probable. Withhold-
ing Supplies from the Troops by the People
justified, 16

2, Address to the Inhabitants of Massachusetts-Bay,
No. 5, from the County of Hampshire. On the
rights of the Colonies, .... 18

2, Letter from London to a Gentleman in New-
York, Reports there, that New- York was
disaffected to the common cause, discredited, - 24

2, Letter from London to a Gentleman in Philadel-

phia. The Government will persist in their
measures against the Colonies. New- York
is to be a place of Arms, and Provisions are to
be provided there for the support of the Army
in New-England, .... 25

3, Letter from the Earl of Dartmouth to the Gov-

ernour of Georgia. Laments that the People
of Georgia, hitherto so loyal, have manifested
a disposition to join the other Colonies. The
Lords of the Admiralty have before them a
Bill for the Collection of His Majesty's Cuit-
Rents, 26

3, Letter from the Earl of Dartmouth to the Gov-
ernours of the several Colonies. The great
majorities in both Houses upon every question
for maintaining the supremacy of Parliament
in the Colonies, shows there will not be the
least relaxation from those measures, - - 26

3, Letter from the Earl of Dartmouth to Deputy-
Goverriour Penn. Has received his Despatch
of January 30, and laid it before the King, - 26
Feb. 22, Letter from the Earl of Dartmouth to the Gov-
ernours of the Colonies, enclosing the joint
Address of both Houses of Parliament, of the
7th February, to the King, with his Answer.
Also the Bill for restraining the Fisheries, and
the Resolution offered in the House of Com-
mons on the 20th of February, - - - 26
March Letter from the Earl of Dartmouth to the Gov-

3, ernours of the Colonies. The King wishes to
see a reconciliation of the differences with the
Colonies, without prejudice to the just autho-
rity of Parliament, which he will never suffer
to be violated. The Colonies bound to con-
tribute their just proportions of the publick
burdens of the Nation in return for the pro-
tection and support they have received. The
King entirely approves of the Resolution of
the House of Commons of 27th February, and
expects a compliance therewith on the part of
the Colonies. He will resist with firmness
every attempt to violate rights of Parliament, 27
Copy of the Resolution adopted by the House of
Commons, on the 27th of February, referred
to in the foregoing Letter, 28

3, Letter from the Earl of Dartmouth to the Gov-
ernour of New-York. His separate Despatch
of this date may be ostensibly of use, in case
the Assembly should consider the Resolution
of 27th February. It is not the King's inten-
tion that it shall be officially communicated to
the Assembly, but he depends upon the ability
and address of Lieutenant-Governour Colden

\l\

177i.

If

4.

CONTENTS.

4,

6,

6.

6,
6,

0,"

6,
0,

to induce a compliance on the pan of the As-
sembly. -------

Litter from the Kail of Dartmouth to Lieut, nant-
I Men. His Despatch of the 1st

of February has bun r.ceiv. d. The senti-
ments of duty to the King and wishes of a
reconciliation, so fully expressed in the Ad-
dress/s of the Council and Assembly, have-
been very graciously received by His Majesty,

Letter from London to a Gentleman in New*
York. The conduct of New- York has filled
every heart with joy. The Resolution of
Lord North, of February 27, which is found-
ed on the truest principle of policy and be-
nevolence, will be outrageously censured and
tiadticed by the Opposition. By this measure
Parliament gives a proof that while it sends
forth the sword of justice to punish the factious,
it extends also friendly proposals to invite the
good citizens to peace and reconciliation,

Meeting of the Committee of Chowan County,
North-Carolina. Premiums offered for the
encouragement of Manufactures,

Letter from John Sullivan to Mr. Fowle, enclos-
ing the Articles of Association of the Military
Company of Durham, New-Hampshire,

Remarks on Mr. Sullivan's Letter. The extra-
ordinary spirit to acquire the use of Arms at
this time of civil discords, marks strongly a
disposition to employ our Arms against the
Government, ------

Mr. Sullivan's Reply,

Address of the Committee of Norfolk to the Free-
men of Virginia, on the conduct of John Brown,
in importing Slaves in violation of the Conti-
nental Association, -

Committee of Observation for Baltimore prohibit
the landing of Salt imported in violation of the
Continental Association, - - - -

Committee of Cumberland County, New-Jer-
sey, break off all dealings with Silas New-
comb, a Member of the Committee, who has
drank East-India Tea in his family ever since
the 1st day of March, instant, in violation of
the Continental Association, -

Recantation of Silas Newcomb, which is accept-
ed by the Committee, ....

Committee of Observation and Inspection for
Freehold, New-Jersey, declare James Riv-
ington, of New- York, Printer, a malignant
enemy to the liberties of this Country, for his
attempts to disunite the Colonies,

Letter from Major Benjamin Floyd, of Brook-
haven, Suffolk County, New- York, to Mr.
Rivington, in reply to some Resolutions adopt-
ed by a Committee at Smithtown, on the 23d
of February, ......

Meeting of the People of Danvers. Officers
chosen for an Alarm List Company,

Reflections on the present state of affairs in Ame-
rica. The Americans will be compelled to
follow the example of the United Provinces,
and publish a Manifesto to the world, showing
the necessity of dissolving their connection
with Great Britain, ....

Oration delivered at the request of the Inhabi-
tants of Boston, to commemorate the bloody
tragedy of the 5th of March, 1770, by Doctor
Joseph Warren, .....

Address to the Inhabitants of New- York against
the recommendation of the Committee to elect

Delegates,

A I Ires* to the Inhabitants of the City of New-
York. The method proposed by the Commit-
tee for the nomination of Delegates extremely
exceptionable, --....

Address to the respectable Inhabitants of the City
of New- York against the election of Dele-
gates to the Continental Congress, The Pro-
angsof the late ' were violent ami

treasonable. One of their Men, hers (Sulli-
van) guilty of open treason in the broad face
of day. Deputies to a Provincial Congress
ought not to be chosen. In the other Colonies
Provincial Congr. sses are closing the Courts
of Justice, wresting the Troops out of the
King's hands, and enlisting Mmute-Mcu to
annihilate his just and legal authority,

29

29

29
30
31

32
32

33
34

34
34

35

36
37

37

38
44

44

44

1775.
M<i rck
7,
7,

Address to the Publick, in answer to the fore-
going, ..----

Affidavit of John Graham, Clerk to Robert and
John Murray, owners of the Ship Beulah.
The Ship left the watering place at Staten
Island yesterday, and passed the Light-house
at eight o'clock this morning. Does not be-
lieve any boat was employed to land any Goods
from the vessel, - - -

8, Account of the Meetings on the evenings of
Thursday, Friday and Saturday last, and on
Monday morning, the 6th instant, when it was
determined, by large majorities, to send Depu-
ties to a Provincial Congress authorized to
choose Delegates to the next Continental Con-
gress, .......

8, Another account of the Proceedings and of the
Meeting on Monday. The friends of consti-
tutional liberty disapprove of the measures.
They proposed, the postponement of all action
until after the adjournment of the Assembly
and the arrival of the Packet from England.
The Committee, in recommending the choice
of Delegates, exceeded their powers, and at
the Meeting held on Monday, at their request,
it was impossible to determine on which side
the majority was, .....

8, Meeting of the New- York Committee. Philip
Livingston and John Jay appointed to inquire
of Mr. Rivington on what authority he made
a false and groundless statement in his Paper,

Mr. Livingston and Mr. Jay, March 13, report to
the Committee that Mr. Rivington says he
made the statement on common rumour, but
will be more careful for the future,

Mr. Rivington's Explanation, March 16, (Note,)

7, Address to the People of England. A defence of

the Americans against the charge of High

Treason,

7, Meeting of the Constitutional Society in London.
Contributions for the suffering Inhabitants of
Boston, -------

7, Extract of a Letter from London. The Crisis,
No. 3, (a periodical Paper,) burnt by the
common hangman yesterday at Westminster,
and to-day at the Royal Exchange, by order
of the House of Commons, . - -

The Crisis, No. 1. To the People of England
and America, ------

The Crisis, No. 2. To a Bloody Court, a Bloody
Ministry, and a Bloody Parliament,

The Crisis, No. 3. To the King,

The Crisis, No. 4. To the Conspirators against the
Liberties of Mankind at St. James's, in St. Ste-
phen's Chapel, the House of Lords, or amongst
the Bench of Bishops, and to the Officers, Sol-
diers and Seamen, who may be employed to
butcher their Relations, Friends and Fellow-
Subjects in America, ....

The Crisis, No. 5. To the People,

The Crisis, No. 6. To the Right Honourable
Lord North, First Lord of the Treasury,
Chancellor of the Exchequer, and Ranger of
Bushy Park, &c, .....

The Crisis, No. 8. To the Lords Suffolk, Pom-
fret, Radnor, Apsley and Sandwich,

The Crisis, No. 9. to the King, -
7, Letter from Charlestown, S. C, to a Gentleman
in London. This Province cannot long sub-
sist without a Free Trade. Before the Non-
Exportation Scheme took effect there was a
lively Commerce here; now the temper of the
People is soured, and their fortunes consuming
fast, for want of Trade. It is the wish of the
wise and the sober that a speedy reconciliation
may be effected, - - . . .

7, Meeting of the Committee of Princess Anne
County, Virginia. Examination of the charges
of John Saunders, Benjamin Dingly Gray and
Mitchell Phillips, for violations of the Provin-
cial and Continental Associations. They are
all declared to be inimical to the liberties of
this Country, and that no person ought to have
any commercial intercourse or dealing with
them, .......

7, Outrage committed by Captain Graves, of the
King's armed Schooner Diana, upon George
Taylor, in the Delaware, ....

XX

16

43

48

49

50

50
50

51

54

55

56

59

62

63

66

69

71
73

76

76
78

XXI

CONTENTS.

XXII

Marc
8

Contradiction of this statement by Lieutenant
Dashwood Bacon, of the Diana, 78

Affidavits by Nathan Wood, William Carter,
Mary Johnston and Daniel Nicholson, proving
the outrage, ...... 78

h Letter to the Printers of the Pennsylvania Ga-
zette, with an explanation of several expres-
sions in the Testimony of the Quakers not pro-
perly comprehended by persons unacquainted
with Friends' writings, 80

Defence of the Colonies, by a Lover of English

Liberty, 81

i Letter to the Author of a Pamphlet entitled ''A
Candid Examination of the Mutual Claims of
Great Britain and her Colonies, &c," - 85

Cumberland County, Massachusetts, Convention.
Recommend strict obedience to the Resolu-
tions of the Provincial Congress, - - 91

Condemn the conduct of Captain Coulson, for
importing Sails, &c, for a new Ship, in viola-
tion of the Continental Association, - - 92

The several Towns in the County required to

provide themselves a Stock of Ammunition, 92

The Inhabitants are requested to adhere strictly
to the Resolutions of the Continental and Pro-
vincial Congresses, ----- 92

Letter from George Mason to George Wash-
ington, -------92

Deposition of Thomas Ditson, Jun., of Billerica,
who was tarred and feathered in Boston, by
order of Col. Nesbit, of His Majesty's Forty-
seventh Regiment, ----- 93

Address to the Inhabitants of the Massachusetts-
Bay, No. 5, from the County of Hampshire, 94

Letter from " Phileirene," defending the British
Government against the charges in the Peti-
tion of the Continental Congress to the King, 100

Letter from "A Converted Whig," against Com-
mittees and Congresses, - - - - 103

Letter from Boston to Mr. Rivington. Conduct
of the British Officers in the Old South Meet-
ing-House, on the 6th instant, - - - 106

CONNECTICUT ASSEMBLY.

Mar.% Connecticut Assembly meets, - - - 107

Committee appointed to inquire into the charges
of disaffection to the Colony, made against
Captains Blackslee, Quintard and Dibble, - 107

Committee to inquire into the conduct of the
Town of Ridgefield, charged with publishing
Resolutions injurious to the Rights of the
Colony, ------- 107

9, Resolution recommending the several Towns in
the Colony to contribute liberally to the re-
lief of Boston, 107

Vote of Thanks to the Assembly of Jamaica, for
their seasonable Mediation in favour of the
Colonies on the Continent, - - - - 108

Letter from the Speaker of the House of Assem-
bly of Connecticut to the Speaker of the House
of Assembly of Jamaica, enclosing the Vote
of Thanks, 108

Letter from Governour Trumbull to the Earl of
Dartmouth, laying before him the condition
and suffering of the Colony, and of Massa-
chusetts, and asking his serious attention to
the distresses of the People in all the Colonies, 108

Letter from Connecticut to Mr. Rivington. Ac-
count of the Proceedings of the Assembly.
The Republicans urged the necessity of an
Army to be immediately raised, but were over-
ruled. A great majority passed a vote to peti-
tion His Majesty for a redress of grievances, - 110

Letter from a Gentleman in Connecticut to Mr.
Holt, in reply to the foregoing Letter to Mr.
Rivington, - 111

14,

13,

29,

CORRESPONDENCE, PROCEEDINGS, ETC.

March Letter from London to a Gentleman in Virginia.
10, The measures of the Government are calcu-
lated to render the Colonies independent. The
London Merchants not zealous in the cause of
America ; those of Glasgow sent up a spirited
Petition, but at the same time let it be known
that they did not mean any opposition by it,
but only to get credit in America. Bribes,

1775.

Pensions and Places are attempted to divide
the Colonies; Lord Dunmore has written for
five thousand Troops to be sent to Virginia, - 114

Remarks on this Letter by Mercator, (Note,) - 115
March Address of two hundred and twenty-seven In-
habitants of Anson County, North-Carolina,
to Governour Martin, - - - - 115

Address of one hundred and ninty-five Inhabi-
tants of Rowan and Surry Counties, North-
Carolina, to Governour Martin, - - - 116

Address of one hundred and sixteen Inhabitants
of Guilford County, North -Carolina, to Gover-
nour Martin, - - - . - - 117

10, Declaration of the Inhabitants of Brookhaven,

Suffolk County, New-York. They had been
deceived by Major Benjamin Floyd, when
they signed the Petition to the Assembly ; de-
clare their disapprobation of the Petition, - 117

11, Letter from London to a Gentleman in Philadel-

phia. The plan of the Ministry is to divide
and govern, by the advantages now held out
to New- York, North-Carolina and Georgia.
The passage of the late Acts may be attributed
to the defection of the New- York Assembly.
Let the Americans be united, and they will
succeed; if they divide, they will be irretriev-
ably ruined, - - - - - -118

1 1, Letter from London, received in Philadelphia.
The Colonies should give no credit to pacifick
Proposals of the Ministry, unless accompanied
by a total disavowal of all their unconstitu-
tional claims. The late Resolves of New-
York have been very grateful to the Ministry,
and have afforded them great triumph and
exultation. The cause of the Americans is
not a favourite cause in England, the majority
are against them ; there is a large minority
in their favour. Publick subscriptions have
been commenced for the Sufferers in Boston,
and some handsome sums have been sub-
scribed, - - - - - - -118

11, Orange County, Virginia, Committee, acquit

Francis Moore, Jun., of an intentional viola-
tion of the Continental Association, - - 120

12, Letter from Boston to a Gentleman in New-

York. Disturbance occasioned by the British
Officers on the delivery of Dr. Warren's Ora-
tion. Ditson, by order of the British Officers,
tarred and feathered, placed on a truck and
exhibited through the City, and to add to the
insult they played Yankee Doodle after him, 120

13, Letter from London to a Gentleman in Virginia.

Lord Dunmore, in a Letter to the Earl of
Dartmouth, has recommended that some Men-
of- War should be stationed in the Chesapeake,
to prevent Virginia from carrying on any
Trade with England; and advises the adop-
tion of measures to distress the People, as the
most certain way to bring about submission, - 121

13, Letter from London to a Gentleman in Maryland.
Lord North's motion was only calculated to
divide the Colonies from each other — the
Ministry are already pleased with their suc-
cess in this way, by the Proceedings at New-
York. It will now be tried what materials-
the Americans are made of; if they have not
virtue to withstand the present policy of the
Ministry they will become a laughing stock
to the world. Their salvation depends upon
their firmness and union, - - - - 121

13, Letter from London to a Gentleman in Philadel-
phia. The City of London and the great
trading and manufacturing Towns are averse
to the present measures. The Ministry see
the dangers of their undertaking, but are en-
couraged to the attempt by a firm persuasion
of success in corrupting New- York, and in-
timidating New-England. Did they believe
the Americans would be united and firm they
would not venture upon coercive measures.
By whatever means the Assembly of New-
York can be kept from deserting, even by out-
bidding the Ministry, it will be worth the pur-
chase, 122

13, Meeting of the Committee of Observation for

Baltimore, 123

Proceedings in relation to the Cargoes of several

Vessels, 123

XXIII

1775.

March
13,

( O.NTEINTS.

XXIV

Will strictly enforce the Continental Association,

Earnestly recommend the People to discontinue
il„ m India Teas, - -

Approve the conduct of the Magistrates who
bare been dismissed by the < tovarnmeat,

Letter from a Gentfemai in Harford County.
Maryland, to a friend in Philadelphia, A total
revolution in the Magistracy of the Pratrinte
expected. Nine of the oldest and beat Magis-
trates bare beeo disaaiaaad, bjm) eleven athers
appointed, some of whom are well known
for thi ir opposition to 'very measure adopted
for the preservation of American Freedom.
No raaaon was alleged In this violent insult,
which was brought about by a oonteroptible
junto in Baltimore Town, who are inimical to
the rights of America, -

DELAWARE ASSEMBLY.

Mar 13, Delaware Assembly meets, - - - -
14, Mr. McKean reported to the House the Pro-
ceedings of the late Continental Congress,
J 5 Conduct of the Delegates from Delaware ap-
proved, and receive the thanks of the Assem-
bly,

Proceedings of the Continental Congress ap-
proved, and their Journal ordered to be de-
posited amongst the files of the House, -

16, Compensation to the Delegates to the Congress,
Delegates are unanimously reappointed, -

17, Committee to prepare Instructions for the Dele-

gates to the Continental Congress,

20, Letter from the Colony Agents in London,

21, Petitions from New-Castle County, and from

Kent County, praying the House to pass a
Bill for establishing the Militia, -

23, Message from Governour Penn to the Assembly,

recommending the establishment of Boundary
lines, ----- - -

24, Bill reported to prohibit the Importation of Slaves,

read, amended, and ordered to be engrossed, -

Instructions for the Delegates to the Congress

reported, -------

25, Engrossed Bill to prohibit Importation of Slaves,

passed and sent to the Governour,
27 The Governour returned the Bill, " to which he

cannot give his assent," -
29, Instructions for the Delegates to Congress agreed

to, - -

Assembly adjourned till the fifth day of June,

next,

1-24
1-24

124

124

126
126

126

126
127
127

127
127

127

128
128
128
128
129
129
129

11

March
14,

131

CORRESPONDENCE, PROCEEDINGS, ETC.

Mar. 13, Pennsylvania Council —

The Governour submits a Letter from the Earl of
Dartmouth, dated January 7, 1775, expressing
his concern that the Non- Importation Resolu-
tion of Congress had been so generally adopt-
ed, and informing him that the King approved
the Boundary line between Pennsylvania and

Maryland, " 129

The Council consider the latter part of the above
Letter, and advise the Governour to issue a
Proclamation, recalling his Proclamation of
the 2d of November last, - - - - 1 30
16, Letter from Governour Penn to Governour
Eden, informing him of his intention to recall
his Proclamation of November 2, 1774, and
to enforce that of the 15th of September, - 130

13, Town Meeting in Boston, direct the Committee

of Correspondence to draw up a Statement of
the conduct of the Troops under command of
General Gage, and of the Navy under Admi-
ral Graves, - - - " - - - 130

14, Meeting of the Inhabitants of Hackensack, in

New-Jersey Resolve to continue loyal Sub-
jects to King < leorge. To disavow all riotous
mobs. That Petitions to the Throne are the
proper means to remove present grievances.
That they will not be concerned in any mi-
constitutional measures; and that they will
support His Majesty's Civil Officers, - - 131
14, Meeting of the Committee of ( iliservation for
Freehold, Monmouth County, New-Jersey.
The Inhabitants ot Bhrewabury having omit-
ted to choose a Committee, this Committee will

131

15,

15.

15,

16,

16,
16,

16,
16,
16,

10,

11,

13,

15.
15,

15,

137

II,

hereafter treat them as enemies to their King
and Country-, and deserters from the common

Of freedom, - - " *

Meeting of Freeholders and other Inhabitants of
New-Windsor, in Ulster County, New- York.
I toclace their attachment to the King, to
whom they would be deficient in duty if they
submit to the power assumed by the Parlia-
ment. Approve and will abide by the Asso-
ciation of the Continental Congress. Con-
demn sundry Publications by James Riving*
ton, a Ministerial hireling, and an enemy to his
Country, - - - - - *
Letters from Philadelphia to Mr. Rivington in
New- York, condemning and ridiculing the
Congress, Committees, and leaders among the

Whigs, 133-134

Letter from Mr. Pownal, Secretary to the Board
of Trade and Plantations, to Lieutenant Go-
vernour Golden, enclosing extracts from the
Minutes and Proceedings upon several Peti-
tions and Memorials, relative to certain Lands
in the Province of New- York, heretofore
claimed by Mr. Van Rensselaer, - - 134-137
The Sub-Committees Report to the Committee
for the City and County of New- York, the
election this day of eleven Delegates to a
Provincial Congress, to be held on the 20th
day of April, - - - -

Letter from General Committee of the City of
New- York to all the Counties in the Colony,
requesting them, without delay, to elect Depu-
ties to a Provincial Congress, for the purpose
of appointing Delegates to the Continental
Congress to meet at Philadelphia, on the 10th
of May next, ------

Account of the election in New- York yesterday,
and of the efforts of the Ministerial Party to
prevent it, ------

Remarks of "A Citizen" on the election. The
People were deceived by a scheme intended to
supplant some of the old Delegates, and get
Mr. McDougall into the Congress,
Company formed in Philadelphia for establishing
an American Manufactory of Woollens, Lin-
ens and Cottons, - - - - -

Spefch delivered in Carpenter's Hall before the
Subscribers to the Fund for establishing Ame-
rican Manufactures in Philadelphia,
Proceedings of the General Committee of the
City of New- York in relation to the landing
of Goods, by Messrs. Robert and John Mur-
ray, from the Ship Beulah, - - 144-148
Letter from the Committee of Elizabethtown,
New-Jersey, to the New- York Committee,
informing them of their reasons for suspecting
Goods had been landed from the Beulah,
Another Letter from the Elizabethtown Commit-
tee. They have continued their examination
into the affair, but have not yet obtained full
information. Samuel Lee, a Boatman, and
Ichabod B. Barnet, (son-in-Jaw to Robt. Mur-
ray,) appear to have been the persons con-
cerned in the alliiir, -----

Letter from Robert and John Murray to the
New- York Committee, acknowledging that
they had landed Goods from the Beulah, in
violation of the Continental Association. Con-
demn the act as unjustifiable, and offer to re-
ship all the Goods within seven clays,
Inventory of Goods taken out of the Beulah at
Sandy-Hook, ------

Deposition of John Murray to his statement of

the taking the Goods from the Beulah,
Affirmation of Robert Murray, ...
Letter from Robert and John Murray to the
New- York Committee. They have delivered
the Goods taken from the Beulah to the Eliza-
bethtown Committee. They are willing to
reship the Goods, as required by the Associa-
tion, and to make any other satisfaction the
Committee may require. As a further ac-
knowledgment of their errour, they offer the
sum of two hundred Pounds towards rebuild-
ing the Hospital, -
Letter from the Elizabethtown Committee to the
New- York Committee, enclosing the Affidavit
of Samuel Lee, -----

133

138

139

140

140

144

144

145
145

145

146

147

147

XXV

IT?.").
March
16,

16,

CONTENTS.

XXVI

16,

17,

17,
17,

18,
19,
20,

20,

20,

Address to the Inhabitants of Now- York. Obe-
dience and submission to Government urged
and enforced on the authority of the Bible, -
Reply to the foregoing. Absolute passive obe-
dience and non-resistance is contrary to the

Word of God,

Declaration of the Grand Jury and Magistrates
at a Court of Quarter Sessions, at Johnstown,
Tryon County, New- York. Condemn the
destruction of the Tea at Boston as an out-
rageous and unlawful act. Renew their pro-
fusions of attachment and pledges of true al-
legiance to their lawful Sovereign, and will, in
any extremity, exert themselves in support of
Government, ------

Letter from the Rev. Dr. Wheelock to Govern-
our Trumbull. Has sent Mr. James Dean
among the Indian Tribes in Canada to pre-
serve peace on the frontier Settlements. Mr.
Dean has great influence with the Six Na-
tions, and could, if authorized, get them to join
the Colonies against any invasion that may be
attempted, ------

Remonstrance presented by the Selectmen of Bil-
lerica to General Gage, demanding satisfaction
for the outrage committed on Thomas Ditson,
by the authority of Colonel Nesbit. If the
Inhabitants of the Country Towns are treat-
ed with this brutish ferocity they will hereafter
use a different style from that of petition and
complaint, ------

Address to the Gentlemen of the Provincial Con-
gress of Virginia, by Charles Lee. The Ad-
dresses of the New- York Assembly are more
alarming than the threats of the Minister. —
Any defection amongst ourselves is a matter of
the most serious concern. It behooves every
Provincial Congress to consider of some effec-
tual means to prevent the mischievous conse-
quences intended by these abandoned men,
'"Lucius" on the treatment the Colonies have
received from Great Britain. Their patience
and forbearance under all their wrongs. Their
conduct defended and their resistance justified,
Letter to Governour Wentworth. Formerly no
man in his station could be more honouredand
revered. By his late conduct in carrying out
the plans of the Ministry he has lost the affec-
tions of the People, and will never possess them
in future, ......

Letter from Essex, New- Jersey, to D. C. Dan-
ger to be apprehended to the Country from the
influence of a party too near the Throne,
Letter from Dr. Franklin to Arthur Lee, trans-
ferring to him all the Papers of the Massa-
chusetts Agency, -
Proclamation of the States-General of the United
Provinces, prohibiting the exportation of Am-
munition or Arms, in vessels belonging to the
Dominions of Great Britain, for six months, -
Proceedings in Charlestown, South-Carolina, on
the arrival of the Snow Proteus from London,
with Merchandise, &c. The Committee au-
thorize the landing of two Horses from the
vessel. The People, dissatisfied with this de-
cision, petition for a reconsideration of it in a
full Committee. The permission to land the
Horses reconsidered and rescinded by the Com-
mittee, and a Resolution adopted, directing the
Horses, Merchandise and Furniture to be re-
turned to England, -----

A full account of these Proceedings, by Mr.

Drayton, (Note,)

Instructions drawn up for the Delegates to the Con-
vention, from a certain County in Virginia, -

148

149

151

152

153

153

156

159
160
162

277

162
163
163

VIRGINIA CONVENTION.

Mar.20, Virginia Convention meets at Richmond

List of the Delegates, - - - - -

Peyton Randolph elected President, and John

Tazewell Clerk, -

President laid before the Convention the Proceed-
ings of the Continental Congress, and a Letter
from Benjamin Franklin, William Bollan and
Arthur Lee, ......

The Proa nlings of the Congress to be considered
to-morrow, ......

165-172
- 165

166

166

166

177o.

March Letter from the Inhabitants of Augusta County,

21, west of the Alleghany Mountains, requesting
John Nevill and John Harvie may be admitted

as their Delegates, - - - - - 167
Mr. Nevill and Mr. Harvie admitted, - - 167
Proceedings of the Continental Congress consi-
dered, ....... 107

22, Further considered, and after the matures! con-

sideration cordially approved, ... 1G7

23, Petition and Memorial of the Assembly of Jamaica

to the King, laid belbre the Convention, - 167

The President directed to transmit the thanks of
the Convention to the Assembly of Jamaica,
for their patriotick conduct, ... 1G7

Committee to prepare a plan for embodying, arm-
ing and disciplining such number of men as
may be necessary for the defence of the Colony, 168

24, Plan for embodying the Militia reported, - 168
The Committee of Correspondence directed to

procure authentick information from the Com-
mittee of New- York, whether their House
of Representatives, by any vote, have deserted
the union of the American Colonies, - - 168
Committees of the several Counties and Corpora-
tions directed to exert themselves in procuring
contributions for the suffering Inhabitants of
Boston, ------- 168

25, On account of the unsettled state of the Country,

Lawyers, Suiters and Witnesses are requested

not to attend the next General Court, - - 168

Plan for embodying, arming and disciplining the

Militia, adopted, 169

Vote of Thanks to Lord Dunmore for his noble,
wise and spirited conduct on the late expedition
against the Indians, ----- 170

Delegates to the Continental Congress elected bv
ballot, - 170

Committee to prepare a plan for the encourage-
ment of Manufactures in the Colony, - - 170
27, Plan for the encouragement of Arts and Manu-
factures reported, and unanimously agreed to, 170

For the more effectually carrying this plan into
execution, it is earnestly recommended to form
Societies in different parts of the Colony, and
to offer premiums, - - - - - 171

Committee to inquire whether the King may of
right advance the terms of granting Lands in
this Colony, - 172

Thomas Jefferson appointed a Deputy to the
General Congress in the room of Peyton Ran-
dolph, if Mr. Randolph cannot attend, - - 172

The People recommended to choose Delegates to
represent them in Convention for one year, - 1 72

Convention dissolved, - - - - - 172

CORRESPONDENCE, PROCEEDINGS, ETC.

March Field Officers chosen for New-Castle County,

20, Delaware, 172

20, Committee for Chester County, Pennsylvania,
direct each Member to use diligence in collect-
ing money for Boston, .... 172

20, Letter from Boston to Newport, R. I. The inso-

lence of the British Soldiers at Boston, encou-
raged and headed by their Officers, makes it un-
safe for people to walk the streets at noon-day, 173
Letter from a Gentleman in the service of a Coun-
sellor of State at Paris, to his friend in Rhode-
Island, 173

21, Proclamation by Lord Dunmore, for the sale of

the King's vacant Lands in Virginia, and pro-
hibiting Richard Henderson from taking pos-
session of any Lands under a pretended pur-
chase from the Indians, ... 174

21, Address of the Committee of Norfolk, Virginia,
to the Publick, declaring Captain Simpson a
violator of the Association, and an enemy of
American Liberty, - - - - - 174

21, Committee for Talbot County, Maryland, direct
two bales of Goods imported in the Ship Balti-
timore, in violation of the Continental Associa-
tion to be sent back to Glasgow, - - 175

21, Albany, New- York, Committee appoint Deputies

to the Provincial Congress, - - - 176

21, Liberty- Pole cut down at Poughkeepsie, in New-
York, by the Sheriff of Dutchess County, at-
tended by a Judge of the Inferlour Court, and
two of His Maji sty's Justices of the Peace, - 17G

WVII
177.-..

. Letter
81,

coyrE.NTS.

XXVI! I

from Samui I to Richard Henry

Virginia from the beginning of the conu st
has distinguished herself in the cause of Ame-
rican Liberty: the People of Massachusetts,
with boom few exceptions, are linn ami united.
The conduct of the British 8oldi< n and t uii-
cers highly offensive t>> the citizens; the Offi-
ce! ate a disturbance en th'
6th, when Dr. Warren delivered his Oration, 170
'21, Letter hum Colonel K. DoolitUe to John Han-
1., suggesting the establishing of a Civil
Constitution for the Province, to remedy the
evils every where lilt for want of a regular
Government, - - - - - - 177

22, Letter from Arthur Lee, enclosing one received
from the Lord Mayor of London, giving in-
formation of attempts to procure counterfeits
of the Bills of Credit of the Colonies, - - 178
22, Letter from Dr. Franklin to his son, giving a
history of his private negotiations in London,
for a settlement of the difficulties between the
Colonies and Ureal Britain, - - 178-210

22, Letter from Dr. Wheelock to Governour Trum-
bull. There are reports of an invasion from
Canada, and the Indians, if not secured in our
interests, will likely join on the other side. Se-
veral of their children, from some of the most
respectable tribes, are now at the Seminary,
( Dartmouth,) and may be considered hosta-
ges; Mr.Dean, now among them, will proba-
bly bring more; this connection is our surest
bulwark against an invasion, ...
Letter from Boston to a Gentleman in New- York.
Outrages of the British Officers and Soldiers
in Boston, ......

Letter from New- York to John Dickinson; re-
viewing and condemning his political conduct,
Letter to the Committee of Inspection for the City
and County of New- York. Their censure of
Mr. Rivington is arbitrary and tyrannical, and
breathes a spirit of intimidation towards him,
Account of the Riots in Cumberland County,

New- York,

Benjamin Hough to the Inhabitants of the City

of New- York,

Statement of Benjamin Hough, under oath, of the
indignities and violence he received from the
Rioters in Cumberland County, ...
A relation of the proceedings of the People of the
County of Cumberland, and Province of New-
York, .......

Letter from Colonel Gilbert to Captain Wallace of
His Majesty's Ship Rose. Many threats have
been made against those who have taken Arms
in the King's name, and there is fear the Rebels

will attack them

Guilford, Connecticut, Committee, acquit Cap-
tain Griffin of an intentional violation of the
Association in taking fourteen Sheep to Mar-
tinico, - - - . .
Address to the Inhabitants of Massachusetts Bav
No 6, from the County of Hampshire. The
question examined. Whether we are in truth a
part of the British Empire, in such a seuse as
to be subject to her supreme authority u, all
cases whatsoever? .....
Committee of Nansemond County, Virginia, pub-
lish the Rev. John Agnew, Rector of Suffolk
Parish, for his opposition to the Association
and the Provincial Congress, - . .
Worcester (Massachusetts) Committee require
punctual attendance of Members of the Com-
mittee, -....,
Letter from Colonel Thomas Wheeler to tl
Printers of the Massachusetts Gazette, explain-
ing the reasons for resigning his commission,
acknowledging his former errours, and avowing
his firm attachment to the cause of Liberty -
Letter from a Freeholder of the County of \Vor-

C?wrmTlw vi"h'nc,; imi1 mwepresentations
of the- Tory writers cannot injure the cause of
Liberty, ---...

from Montreal The Canadians were
highly offended by the Address of the Congress
to the People of England, - -

;or" t0 l of England. Boston

is become a « iarriaon. The inhabitants are
ruined, but Hutchinson is pensioner]. . . 23.,

22,

23,

23

23,
23,

23,

23,

23,

23.

24,

24,

24,

24,

24,

23.

210

211

211

213

214

215

215

218

222

- 222

222

226

- 228

228

229

231

1775.

M I Letter from Governour Eden to ( '.overnour Pmn,
25, refusing to join in issuing a Proclamation, re-
i sailing that of November 2, 17 7-1, respecting
the Boundary between Pennsylvania and Mary-
land, 303

25, Letter from Essex, New-Jersey, to D. C. The
late news from England has strengthen! d the
union of the Colonies. Not more than three
Towns in the four New-England Provinces
opposed to the measures of the Congress; in
New- Jersey and the Southern Provinces the
opposition is as small. Some few places in
New- York are delinquent, but they appear to
be returning to their duty, ... 232

25, Confession of Thomas Lilly, of M arbkhead, that

he has been guilty of purchasing Tea, - 234

Deposition of Simon Tufts, March 31st, that in
purchasing Tea he had no intention of viola-
ting the Association, .... 234

25, Orange County, Virginia, Committee, meet, and
demand of the Rev. John Wingate the surren-
der of a number of Pamphlets containing re-
flections on the Continental Congress. The
Committee obtain them after some difficulty
and delay, and order them to be burnt, - 234

28, Proclamation by Lord Dunmore, requiring all
Magistrates and Officers to use their endeavours
to prevent the appointment o{ Deputies to the
Continental Congress, and exhorting all persons
within the Colony to desist from such an unjus-
tifiable proceeding, ----- 236

Remarks on Lord Dartmouth's Circular to the
Governours of the Colonies, requiring them to
do their utmost to prevent the choice of Depu-
ties to the Continental Congress, - - 236
Letter from an Englishman in New- York to
the Committee of Correspondence for Philadel-
phia. Charges them with falsehood, hypocrisy
and rebellion; condemns their whole proceed-
ings, and asserts that the number of loyal sub-
jects is increasing with a rapid progress, - 238
Meeting of the Committee for Worcester, Massa-
chusetts, ...... 242

Letter from a Gentleman in London to his friend
in North-Carolina, ..... 242

New- York Committee recommend to the Inhabi-
tants to stop the exportation of Nails, and to
withhold all Supplies, which are essential to
hostilities, from the Troops at Boston, - 242

Letter from J. Brown to the Committee of Cor-
respondence at Boston. The Canadians appear
to be quite friendly towards the Colonies, but
there is no prospect of Canada sending Dele-
gates to the Continental Congress. The Fort
at Ticonderoga must be seized should hostili-
ties be committed by the King's Troops ; the
People on the New-Hampshire Grants have
engaged to do this business, and they are the
most proper persons for the job, ... 243
Committee for Lancaster County, Pennsylvania,
approve the conduct of George Ross for oppos-
ing, in the Assembly, the recommendation of
the Governour to send a separate Petition to
His Majesty, ---... 245
Chiefs of the Six Nations in consultation with
Colonel Guy Johnson, .... 245

Letter to the Inhabitants of Massachusetts-Bay,

No. 7, from the County of Hampshire, - 245

Freeholders of Jamaica, on Long- Island, refuse

to send Deputies to the Provincial Congress, 251
Letter to the Subscribers to an Association agreed
to in January last, in Portsmouth, New- Hamp-
shire,

28,

28,
29,
29,

29,

30,

30,

30,

31,
31,

April Letter from London to a Gentleman in Philadel-

1, phia. The behaviour of the New-Yorkers has

raised the drooping spirits of the Ministry,

who now declare their intention of starving the

four New-England Colonies, - - -

1, Letter from New-Haven to Mr. Rivington. The

Committee of Inspection have proceeded to
very unwarrantable lengths, and threaten those
who drink Tea If they carry matters to ex-
tremity, now is the time to repel force by force

2, Council of North-Carolina advise the Governour

to issue a Proclamation to forbid the holding
a Provincial Congress, Z

3, Proclamation by Governour Martin, to forbid the

sitting of the Provincial Congress, at New-

251

252

252

253

XXIX

17J5.

CONTENTS.

xxx

April
3,
3,

3,

bern this day, ami exhorting all His Majes-
ty's subjects, on their allegiance, to withdraw
themselves from the same, ...

Meeting of the Committee for Gloucester Coun-
ty, Virginia, ------

Committee for Philadelphia cautioning their Fel-
low-Citizens of an attempt to be made to violate
the Association, by importing: East- India goods
through the Dutch Islands,

Committee for Freehold, Monmouth County,
New-Jersey, declare Thomas Leonard a foe to
the rights of British America, for violations of
the Continental Association. ...

Lett* from New- York to a Gentleman in Bos-
ton. It is suspected that the Troops really
mean to take the field; some imagine they will
march out five or ten mile s at a time, in order
to compel the people of Massachusetts to begin
hostilities first, .....

Letter from Dr. Joseph Warren to Arthur Lee.
America must, and will be free. The contest
may be severe. The end will be glorious.
A detachment of the Army marched four mil. s
out of Boston tlu.,. days ago; great numbers of
the People, completely armed, collechd in the
neighbouring Towns. The Congress imme-
diately took prop..,- measures for" restraining
any unnecessary effusion of tHooa,_^^ ■

251

254

254

254

255

255

NORTH-CAROLINA ASSEMBLY.

Apr. 4, North-Carolina Assembly meets, ...
List of Members elected to the Assembly,
List of Members attending, -
John Harvey chosen Speaker, and approved by
the Governour, .....

Speech of the Governour to the Council and
House of Assembly, ....

5, The Governour's Speech to be considered to-mor-

row, .... .

6, Governour's Speech considered in Committee of

the Whole,

Report of the Committee of the Whole House,

7, Answer to the Governour's Speech,
Proceedings of Continental Congress approved,
Delegates to the Congress chosen by the Conven-
tion, approved by the Assembly,

Thanks of the House to the Delegates to the late
Continental Congress, ....

8, Assembly dissolved by the Governour,

7, Council of North-Carolina, on reading the vote

of the House of Assembly, approving of the
Proceedings of the Continental Congress, ad-
vise the Governour to dissolve the Assembly,

8, Proclamation of Governour Martin, dissolving

the Assembly, ...... 266

255
256

257

257

261

261
261
263
265

265

265

266

266

NORTH-CAROLINA PROVINCIAL CONVENTION.

Apr. 3, Convention of North-Carolina meets, - - 266

List of the Delegates elected, .... 266

List of the Delegates present, ... 267

John Harvey chosen Moderator, • - - 267

4, Other Delegates attend, .... 267

5, Resolution approving of the Continental Associa-

tion, and binding the Members of this Conven-
tion to adhere to it, - - - - - 268
All the Members subscribe this Resolution, ex-
cept Mr. Thomas Macknight, who refused, - 268
Thanks of the Convention to the Delegates to

the late Continental Congress, ... 268
Answer of the Delegates to the Moderator, - 268
Thanks to the Delegates, by Colonel John Har-
vey, in compliance with instructions from Per-
quimans County, ..... 2G9
Answer of the Deb gates, .... 269
Delegates to the Congress to be held in May next,
appointed, and invested with such powers as
may make acts done by them obligatory in
honour upon every inhabitant of the Province, 269

6, Thomas Macknight, a Delegate for Currituck

County, called upon to sign the Continental
Association, refuses, and withdraws from the
Convention, ------ 269

Resolution declaring Mr. Macknight a proper
object of contempt to the Continent, and recom-
mend all persons to break off all intercourse
and dealing with him, .... 270

1775.

April The Moderator, or Mr. Johnston, empowered to
7, direct Delegates to be chosen to a Convention

to meet in Hillsborough, .... 270

Proceedings of the late Continental Congress ap-
proved of by the Convention, - - - 270

Arts, Manufactures, Agriculture, and every kind

of economy, to be encouraged in the Colony, 270

The Governour's Proclamation to prohibit this
meeting, and his Proclamation commanding
this meeting to disperse, are illegal, and ought
to be disregarded, ..... 270

Vindication of Thomas Macknight, by Samuel
Jarvis and others, - - - - - 271

Council of North-Carolina, .... 273

Governour submits the proceedings of the Con-
vention, signed by John Harvey, Moderator,
containing Resolves derogatory to the honour
and dignity of His Majesty's Government, - 273

Mr. Harvey's name struck out of His Majesty's
Commission of the Peace for Perquimans
County, 273

12,

- 273

CORRESPONDENCE, PROCEEDINGS, ETC.

April Town Meeting at Hempstead, Queen's County,
4, in New- York ; resolve to bear true allegiance
to George the Third, and to adhere to the Bri-
tish Constitution ; approve of the proceedings
and addresses of the General Assembly, and

refuse to choose Deputies to a Provincial Con-
gress, _ _

Address to the puwui,. by a Freeholder of Hemp-
stead. I he Resolution, of the meeting at
Hempstead, on the 4th instant, do not truly
represent u.» Town. M of (he *

freeholders disapp^,- 7 ^ P*

the Assembly, support the Conn...... , . ft .

tion, and are in favour of a Provincial r, "
gress, - - - - - - -<., .

4, Delegates appointed to the Provincial Congress,
by a Town Meeting in Goshen, Orange Coun-
ty, New- York, - - - - - 275

4, Delegates appointed to the Provincial Congress,

by a Town Meeting in Cornwall Precinct,
Orange County, New- York, ... 276

5, Baltimore Committee declare they will carry into

execution the Association and measures of the
Congress, but that they have not, and will not,
use or authorize personal violence, • - 276

5, Letter from the Secretary of the Board of Trade
to the Governours of the Colonies, enclosing
the Act to restrain the Trade of the New-
England Colonics, and prohibiting them from
fishing on the Banks of Newfoundland, - 276

5, Letter from Mr. Pownall, enclosing a Proclama-
tion of the States-General, .... 276

5, Order of the King in Council, prohibiting the
exportation out of Great Britain, or carrying
coastwise, any Arms or Ammunition, for six
months after the H)th of April, without per-
mission from the King or his Privy Council, 277

5, Letter from Thomas Life, Agent for Connecticut,

in London, to Governour Trumbull, - - 278

5, Meeting of the Livery of London, at Guildhall.

Address of the Mayor. Remonstrance and
Petition to the Throne respecting the measures
adopted with regard to America, proposed, de-
bated, adopted, and ordered to be presented to
the Throne, .--... 278

6, Letter from the Georgia Delegates to the Presi-

dent of the Continental Congress, explaining
the reasons why they think it inexpedient for
them to attend, 279

6, Calvert County, Maryland, Committee, resolve
that Alexander Ogg has violated the Associa-
tion, and ought to be deemed an enemy to
America, - - - - - --281

Mr. Ogg's publick acknowledgment of his of-
fence, April 13, 281

6, Committee for Sussex County, Virginia, approve
of the proceedings of the Convention at Rich-
mond, and pledge themselves to adhere to
their Resolutions, - - - - - 281

6, Inhabitants of the Borough of Westchester, in
New- York, refuse to choose Deputies to a
Provincial Congress, and disown all Con-
gresses, Conventions, and Committees, - 282

6, General Meeting of the Inhabitants of West-

CONTENTS.

WX1I

xx\t

1775.

April
0,

ill

<"',

%

6.

7,

i r. called to determine whether they

choce Deputies to the Provincial Conj

or wh«h. r th. y will abide by the loyal mea

jui. ■ aeral Assembly, - - '

■v [nhabitanta of New-York; ad-

amet exporting Nails,

and supplying^ Troops al Boston, read and

aporored. Williaraand Henry Uattck having

purchased intrenching tools for the Army at

,„, are declared to lie mWtenrte ft

i,,., dom, and the people are desired
to break off all connection* and dealing with

them for tin? future, - - - - . *

Letter from Alexander Mc Donga 11 to Josiah
duincy. Jun. The Statenient ol Gnei
and not the Petition to the Eng.tha Memorial

to the Lords, or the Remonstrance to the Coin-
mons, contains the true opinions of the late
House of Assembly of New- York. The only
instance of a violation of the Association at
New- York, is that of the goods taken from
the Beulah, - - » # • * "

L net from Boston, for Mr. Rivington s Gazet-
teer, - - - - ","."

Phileirene to the People of Massachusetts, de-
fending the measures of the Parliament against
the complaints of the Continental Congress, -

Address to the Inhabitants of Massachusetts- Bay,
No. 8, from the County of Hampshire. On the
right of the Parliament to arr unlimited con-
trol over the Colonies, - ",f„, Mnrth

Letter from Alexander Elm* '-f • f f .nt f° n Sl „
Carolina, in London, to Samuel J°'»'st0»NfrX
pressed the Petition to the King from North-
Pf ,. , „ ■, ^nntaintxt ,*iunge maccu-
Carohna, because it contain^ m

- 282

1775.

April

8,

283

racies, and rerV<-,:"

on the Parliament and

305

- 283

284

286

289

30G

508

j , and was not respectful to the King :
,i was probably owing to this suppression that
North-Carolina was excepted from the Re-
straining Bill, 296

7, Chesterfield County, Virginia, Committee, will
encourage the manufacture of Linen, Cotton
and Woollen Cloth, and subscribe funds for the
support of such manufactures; direct John
Brown of Norfolk, and Captain Sampson of
the Ship Elizabeth of Bristol, to be published
as persons deserving the censure and contempt
of the People of the Colony, - 298

7, Committee of Kingston, in Ulster County, New-

York, convict Jacobus Louw, on his own ad-
missions, of selling Tea; and publish him as an
enemy to the rights and liberties of America, 298
7 Application of the Portsmouth, New-Hampshire
Volunteers to Colonel Theodore Atkinson, for
permission to beat a drum, ... - 299

8, Southampton, Virginia, Committee, direct sub-

scriptions to aid Mr. Tail in making Salt, and
make provision for supplying the Militia of the
County with Ammunition, - 299

8, Address to the PeOplettf Virginia, on the " In-
structions drawn up for the Delegates to the
Convention at Richmond, from a certain Coun-
ty in Virginia," 300

Address of the Freeholders of Fincastle County,
Virginia, to Lord Dunmore, - - - 301

8, Proclamation of Governour Penn, by the advice
of the Council of Pennsylvania, revoking his
Proclamation of the 2d of November last, in
relation to the Boundaries between Pennsylva-
nia and Maryland, ----- 302

8, Letter from Gov. Penn to Gov. Eden. By ad-
vice of Council, informing him of his determi-
nation to issue a separate Proclamation, - 303

8, Letter from Dutchess County, New- York; the
inhabitants of Charlotte Precinct have refused,
by a large majority, to choose Deputies to the
Provincial Congress, - 304

Protest of the Freeholders of seven Precincts in
Dutchess County. New- York, against the ap-
pointment of Robert K. Livingston, Egbert
Benson, and Morris Graham, as Deputies to
the Provincial Congress, a majority of the
freeholders bein 1 to any such Con-

gress. --- - - - 304

"A Freeholder of Dutchess County," denying the
truth of tl ms in the foregoing Pro-

test, which was never publickly read, or ap-
proved of by one of the Precincts named in it, 304

309

309

Letter from the Committee of Montreal, m < Sana-
da, to the < •ominiuee of Safety in Massachusetts.
The People more divided by their interests than
by their religion, language, and manners: the
apprehensions of evil from the unlimited power
of Government, strikes all opposition dead.
The bulk ol the People, both English and Ca-
nadians, wish well to the cause of the Colonies,
but dare not stir a finger. They wish to know
if English Delegates would be admitted to the
Congress, without entering into the General
Association, - - - *".*«"
10, Letter from London to a Gentleman in New-
York. Great preparations making in England
to reduce the Colonies to submission. The
Colonies must get ready to light, for nothing
can save them but their own strength; the cry
of blood is gone out against them, -
10, Committee for Prince George's County, Mary-
land, publish Thomas Bailey as an enemy to
the Country for landing imported Salt, in vio-
lation of the Continental Association ; and John
Baynes, for killing a Lamb, contrary to a Re-
solve of the Provincial ( Jonvi mion,
10, Committee for Anne Arundel County, Maryland,
declare a Paper printed in the London I ub-
lick Ledger of the 4th of January, entitled
"Facts rei~,;'c t0 the Ei°t at Annapolis, in
Maryland," a false, scandalous and malicious
narrative ; and the Author of it an inveterate
enemy to the liberties of the Province in par-
ticular, and of British America in general, -
"Facts relative to the Riot at Annapolis, in Ma-
ryland," the Paper referred to by the Commit-
tee for Anne Arundel County, -

10, Address of the Committee of Inspection for Fal-

mouth, Massachusetts, to the Publick. A
statement of the conduct of Captain "Thomas
Coulson, with the reasons of the Committee
for publishing him as a violator of the Conti-
nental Association, - - - - 311

Committee of Inspection for Falmouth, appoint
a Sub-Committee to prevent the landing of
prohibited Merchandise belonging to Captain
Thomas Coulson, March 2, - - -

The Committee determine that using the Sails,
Rigging and Stores, imported by Coulson, will
be a violation of the Continental Association,
and order them to be sent back to Bristol in
the Ship that brought them here, March 3, -
April Information received. in London of the sailing of

11. a Vessel from Stettin, loaded with Fire-Arms

and Ammunition for the Americans, - - 313
1 1, Inhabitants of Richmond County, in New- York,
refuse to send Deputies to the Provincial Con-
gress, 314

1 0, Meeting of the Freeholders of Westchester Coun-

ty, New- York. Deputies to the Provincial
Congress appointed, and thanks voted to the
minority in the late General Assembly for their
firm attachment to the union of the Colonies
and rights and liberties of America,

11, Meeting of the Committees appointed by the In-

habitants on the east side of the range of Green
Mountains. The inhabitants being in danger
of having their property and their lives taken
from them by the Government of New- York,
wholly renounce, and will resist the authority
of that Government, till they can be made
secure in their lives and property, or till they
can lay their grievances before the King in
Council, with a Petition that they may be
taken out of so oppressive a jurisdiction, or
annexed to some other Government,

1 1, Speech of the Chief Sachem of the Stockbrido-e

Indians, in answer to a Message sent them by
the Provincial Congress of Massachusetts, -

12, " Regulus" to the King, on his Answer to the

Address of the City of London, -
12, Latter from General Gage to Governour Martin
of North-Carolina. The leaders in Massa-
chusetts, by their arts and artifices, still keep
Up a seditions and licentious spirit. The new-
fangled Legislature, termed a Provincial Con-
gress, have taken the Government into their
own hands, but they are much puzzled how to
act. Fear in some, and a want of inclination
in others, will be a great bar to their coming

312

3K

314

315

315
316

XXXIII

1775.

CONTENTS.

xxxiv

to extremities, though their leaders use every
exertion to bring them into the field, - - 317

April Letter from the Chairman of the Committee of
12, Falmouth, Massachusetts, to Samuel Freeman.
Captain Mowat, in the Canso, sloop-of-war, in
the harbour, to protect Coulson's Ship, and
taking out the Goods which were prohibited
to be landed by the Committee. The Commit-
tee will do all they can to prevent any other
person from breaking the Association, - - 318

12, Letter from a Gentleman in England to his Cor-

respondent in Virginia. The sword is drawn
here and the wabbaTd thrown away. The
threats thrown out here against the Americans
are only fit for Savages. The declaration of
Colonel Grant, in the House of Commons,
that he had always treated the Americans as
beasts of burden, and that they deserved no
better usage, was received with the greatest ap-
probation. American fraud, American rapine,
American cowardice, and American insolence,
are the perpetual topicks of Ministerial decla-
mation. Orders are sent to seize particular
persons in the Colonies; and certain American
advocates here will be seized when the tem-
per of the times will make it safe to do so, - 318

13, Opinions in England on the Proceedings of the

Continental Congress, - - - - 319

13, Letter from the Committee of Yorktown, Penn-
sylvania, to John Hancock and Thomas Cush-
ing, with Donations from York County for the
suffering Poor of Boston, ... - 320
Amount of Donations from York County, (Note,) 320
13, Protest of the Inhabitants and Freeholders of
Westchester County, New- York, against the
Proceedings of the Meeting held at the White
Plains, on the 1 1th instant, for the appointment
of Deputies to the Provincial Congress, - 321

Subscribers to the Protest from Westchester

County, 321

Answer of Lewis Morris to the Protest, with a
list of one hundred and seventy of the Subscri-
bers to it, who are not entitled to vote, besides
a number of the Tenants of Colonel Philipse.
Very few independent Freeholders objected to
the appointment of Deputies, ... 323
13, Phileirene to the Printers of the Massachusetts
Gazette. Objections to the claims and com-
plaints of the Continental Congress, who, in
most of their Proceedings, have exceeded the
powers delegated to them, and in still more,
have counteracted the design of their appoint-
ment, 324

13, Letter to the Inhabitants of the Massachusetts-

Bay, No. 9, from the County of Hampshire, 329

14, Candidus to the People of New-Hampshire, - 334

1 4, Recommendation of the Provincial Congress of

Massachusetts to the People, to assist the In-
habitants in removing from Boston, - - 336

15, Letter from the Earl of Dartmouth to General

Gage. All Fortifications should be garrisoned
by the King's Troops, or dismantled and de-
stroyed. Arms and Military Stores of every
kind should be seized, and persons that have
committed acts of treason and rebellion should
be arrested and imprisoned. A Proclamation
may be issued, offering a reward for appre-
hending the President, Secretary, or any Mem-
ber of the Provincial Congress, who are most
active in that seditious meeting, ... 336

15, Baltimore, Maryland, Committee, request all per-
sons to abstain from attending the approaching
Fair at Baltimore Town, .... 337

17, Letter from James Habersham to Clark and Mil-
ligan, London. The fiery Patriots of Charles-
town have stopped all dealings with Georgia.
Some of the inflammatory Resolutions and
Measures of the Northern Colonies portend
an open rebellion against the Parent State, - 337

17, Meeting of the Committee for King George
County, Virginia. Austin Brockenbrough
summoned to appear before the Committee
to answer charges against him of opposing
the measures of the Continental Congress. —
Refuses to attend, and is published as an enemy
to American Liberty, .... 337

17, Committee of Philadelphia inform fne Publick
that it is now under the consideration of the

Fourth Series. — Vol. 11.

1775.

April
17,

17,

17,

17,

18,

19,

19,

19,

19,

19,

19,

19,

33S

338

339

339

340

340

Committee to suspend all trade and intercourse
with such Colonies as have not acceded to the
Association of the Continental Congress,

Statement and Deposition of Isaac Sears and
Paschal N. Smith, denying the charge against
them of having furnished Supplies to the Ann y
in Boston, ......

Letter from Arthur Lee to Jas. Kinsey, Speaker
of the House of Assembly of New-Jersey. —
The Earl of Dartmouth refused to receive the
Petition of the Assembly of New- Jersey from
Mr. Lee, because he was not the Agent of the
Colony. The Petition will, therefore, remain
to wait the further pleasure of the House. —
The policy of the Ministry is to divide the Co-
lonies, and draw them off from their great
shield and defence, an union in General Con-
gress,

Letter from Govemour Trumbull to the Rev.
Dr. Wheelock. The ability and influence of
Mr. Dean to attach the Six Nations to the in-
terest of the Colonies is considered an instance
of Divine favour, .....

Parties of Minute-Men met at Freetown, on the
10th instant, to seize Colonel Gilbert, but he
fled on board the Man-of-War at Newport. —
A number of Tories, who had signed Enlist-
ments to serve the King, were taken prisoners.
They made acknowledgments of their past
bad conduct, promised to behave better for the
future, and were dismissed, ...

Address to the Inhabitants of New-England. —
The tune is come when we are called upon to
consider whether we will defend our rights
and properties, or surrender them to Lord
North. Will it not be wise, as soon as the
Sword of Great Britain is drawn against us,
to sacrifice every New-England Tory; to in-
vite the Biitish Troops to join us; to cut oft'
all such as intend to act as our enemies, and
to send Ambassadors to Europe with a decla-
ration of our Ports being opened to them for a
free Trade ?

Brecknock to the People of England. The in-
vasion of the rights of the Americans is an in-
vasion of the rights of the People of Great
Britain. The Inhabitants of both Countries
have the same rights to their liberty and pro-
perty. The tyranny that violates one will
violate the other, -

New- York Committee. Proceeds of sales of
Merchandise made under their direction,
agreeable to the Tenth Article of the Conti-
nental Association, to be applied towards re-
lieving the poor Inhabitants of Boston who
are sufferers by the Port-Bill,

Letters from New- York to a Gentleman in Phi-
ladelphia. Information received from Eng-
land that a Fleet, with a number of Transports
with Troops, are preparing to be sent to Ame-
rica to enforce the Acts of Parliament,

Letter from the New- York Committee to the
Provincial Congress of Massachusetts, com-
municating Letters and Intelligence, received
this day from England, of the intentions of the
Ministry, and of their preparations for subdu-
ing and enslaving the Colonies, - - 344-347

Address to the respectable Publick of New-
York. The Committee condemned for pub-
lishing William and Henry Ustick as enemies
to American Freedom ; and the charge against
them, of having violated the Association, is
pronounced false and malicious, -

Letter to Mr. Rivington. Riots in New- York.
Proceedings of the Committee of Inspection
against the Usticks, Mr. Thurman, and Mr.
Harding, charged with furnishing Supplies for
the Troops in Boston. These Proceedings
complained of a breach of the Law. Capt.
Sears apprehended, and a Mittimus issued to
send him to Jail. On his way there rescued
and set at liberty. Further Riots,

Letter from the Rev. Samuel Auchmuty to Capt.
Montressor, at Boston. Information just re-
ceived from England of an Armament speedily
to embark for Boston, to convince the refrac-
tory there that England will not be trifled
with. At a rascally Whig mob in New- York,

341

- 342

344

347

348

XXXV

1775.

CONTENTS.

XXXVI

Sears, the King, was arrested and ordered to
prison; was rescued at the Jail door, - - 349
Apnl A notice of this Letter, and of Mr. Auchmuty,

the- writer of it. (Note,) - 350

NEW-YORK PROVINCIAL CONVENTION.

Apr 20, Provincial Convention of New- York, - 351— J
List of Deputies, •

Credentials of the Deputies for New- York, Al-
bany and Ulster Count! - - -
( "r. d.Mtials of the Deputies for Orange County,
< 'redentials of the Deputies lor Westchester
County, -------

Credentials from Suffolk and King's Counties, -

\il, Credentials from Queen's Gounty, - - -

Poll Lists for Jamaica, in Queen's County, pre-

d by Mr. Robinson, -
Credentials from Dutchess County, -
Delegates to the next Continental Congress ap-
pointed, -------

22, Instruction to the Delegates to the Continental
Congress, ------

Convention dissolved, - - - * •

351

24,

351
353

20,

354
355
356

839
356

20

357

358
358

20,

CORRESPONDENCE, PROCEEDINGS, ETC.

April Letter from the Newburyport Committee to the
19, Portsmouth, New-Hampshire, Committee. Re-
port of an action between the Troops at Bos-
ton and the People. Men are setting off im-
mediately for Boston, - - - - 359

19, Letter from Boston to a Gentleman in New-

York. The Troops left Boston last night;
at Lexington they fired on the People ; march-
ed to Concord ; engagement there ; re-enforce-
ments sent from Boston. The Troops re-
treated from Concord to Charlestown, - - 359

20, Letter from Boston to a Gentleman near Phila-

delphia. The Troops left Boston in the night
of the 18th, and in boats were conveyed over
to Phipps's farm. The men appointed to alarm
the Country on such occasions, got over by
stealth nearly as soon as the Troops. At
Lexington the People fired upon, and five Men
killed ; engagement at Concord ; the Troops
retreat, and with re-enforcements sent out un-
der Earl Percy, are driven by the Militia back

to Boston, 360

20, Letter from Boston to a Gentleman in New-
York. The British Officers returned from the
attack on the People, say they never were in a
hotter engagement. Our People came to no
regular battle, but annoyed them the whole
way back, ...... 360

20, Letter from Boston to a Merchant in New- York.

It is surprising how soon the Country People
mustered, and in vast numbers. The Troops
were obliged to retreat near twelve miles, and
all the way a constant firing was kept up on
both sides. ...... 361

21, Letter from Newport, Rhode-Island, to the New-

York Committee. Our brethren of Massachu-
setts Bay are attacked by a body of the regu-
lar Troops, and many friends slain, - - 361
23, Letter from Weathersfield, in Connecticut, to a
Gentleman in New- York. We are all in
motion here ; one hundred Men, with twenty
days' provison and sixty-four rounds, left yes-
terday; the neighbouring Towns all arming
and moving; by night we shall have several
thousands from this Colony on their march.
The eyes of America arc on New- York ; the
Ministry have been promised that your Pro-
vince would desert us. You must now de-
clare one way or the other, that we may know
whether we are to go to Boston or to New-
York ; if ymi desert, our M en will as cheer-
fully attack New- York as Boston, • - 362

23, Express from T. Palmer, Wateriown, received

in New- York, 363

24, Letter from New- York to a ( icntlemaii in Phila-

delphia. Information received yesterday, (Sun-
day,) of the attack of the King's Troops on
the People of Massachusetts; sent immediately
by express to Philadelphia. The People un-
loaded two Vessels filled with Flour for the
Troops at Boston, and seized the City Arms, 364

1775.

April
21,

20,

20,
21,

21,

21,

21,

22,
22,

22,

23,

22,

Letter from New- York to a Gentleman in Phila-
delphia. A reconciliation between us and
• Ireat Britain is now at a greater distance
than we of late had rational grounds to hope.
Yesterday, after the news from Boston was
received, the Committee met, and will take
measures to maintain the character of a sister
Colony that feels for another in distress,

Letter from James Lockwood, Wallingford, Con-
necticut, forwarded by express to Charlestown,
in South-Carolina, - - - - -

"Johannes in Eremo" to the People. Great
Britain has drawn the Sword offensively, New-
England defensively. Our blood has been
shed by the Troops under General Gage, and
the cry will soon reach Heaven against him.
Great Britain will no longer be honoured as
our Mother, ......

Letter from Richard Devens to the Members of
the Provincial Congress of Massachusetts, re-
questing them to assemble immediately at
Concord, - - - - - . -

Letter from the Committee of Safety of Massa-
chusetts to the Governour of Connecticut. The
British Troops fired on our Men at Lexington,
without any provocation, and killed eight of
them at the first onset. As the Troops have
now commenced hostilities, we think it our
duty to exert our utmost strength to save our
Country from absolute slavery; and we pray
you to afford us all the assistance in your
power, -------

Letter from Dr. Warren to General Gage, re-
questing arrangements may be made for re-
moving the Tories into Boston, and the Whigs
out of Boston, ------

Letter from Adam Babcock to Governour Trum-
bull, requesting permission to ship twelve
Oxen to the West-Indies, - - - -

Gunpowder removed from the Magazine at
Williamsburgh, by order of Lord Dunmore, -

Address of the Corporation of Williamsburgh to
Lord Dunmore, requesting him immediately
to return the Powder, ....

Answer of Lord Dunmore. He refuses to re-
turn the Powder now, but pledges his honour,
that in case of an insurrection, it shall be re-
turned in half an hour, ...

Cumberland County, Virginia, Committee, consi-
der and approve the Proceedings of the late
Convention at Richmond, - - - .

Letter from the Connecticut Committee of Safety
to John Hancock. Every preparation is mak-
ing to support your Province. The ardour of
our People is such that they cannot be kept
back. Despatches should be immediately sent
to England, with an accurate account of the late
transactions, to forestall such exaggerated ac-
counts as may go from the Army and Navy, -

Letter from the Committee of Newburyport to
the Committee of Safety, requesting to know
if the Forces coming from New-Hampshire
shall be sent on, .....

Letter from the Committee of Safety of Massa-
chusetts to the Provincial Congress of New-
Hampshire, ---...

Letter from the Committee of Newburyport to
the Committee of Hampton. Information has
been received from the Committee of Safety at
Cambridge, that a sufficient number of Men
have arrived; they do not wish any more from
the Northward for the present, and advise them
to remain and guard the sea-coasts,

Letter from the Committee of Safety to the In-
habitants of Boston. An arrangement has
been made with General Gage for the re-
moval from Boston of the men, women and
children, and their effects, - - . .

I «tteT from a Committee of the Town of Boston
to Dr. Joseph Warren, enclosing the Agree-
ment between General Gage and the Town of
Boston, ---.-..

Meeting of the Freeholders and other Inhabi-
tants of the Town of Boston, called in conse-
quence of an interview between General Gage
and the Selectmen of the Town. Committee
appointed to wait upon General Gage with
propositions for the removal of the Inhabitants.

364

365

369

369

370

370

371
371

371

- 372

372

372

373

373

374

374

374

375

MARYLAND CONVENTION.

Apr.24, Maryland Convention, -

Matthew Tilghman in the Chair, and Gabriel
Duvall appointed Clerk, ....

George the Third is the rightful Sovereign of
Great Britain and Dominions, and this Pro-
vince will bear faith and true allegiance to him,

Committee appointed to write to the Committee
of Correspondence for Philadelphia, request-
ing the fullest information in regard to the
condition of New- York, -

Letter to the Committee of Philadelphia, -

Exportation from this Province to Quebeck,
Nova-Scotia, Georgia and Newfoundland sus-
pended, ------

Inhabitants of the Province earnestly requested
to form and exercise the Militia throughout
the Province, ------

Delegates to the Continental Congress appointed,

Day of Fasting, Humiliation and Prayer appoint-
ed, --------

May 1, Letter from the Philadelphia Committee. Some of
their Members have gone toNew- York to learn
the situation of affairs there, and what the In-
habitants expect from the Southern Colonies,
April Letter from Newport to the Philadelphia Com-
25, mittee, ----...

379
379

- 380

380
380

381

381
382

CORRESPONDENCE, PROCEEDINGS, ETC.

April Committee of Observation for Newark, New-
Jersey. At this alarming crisis will risk their
lives and fortunes in support of American
Liberty ; and will give all the support in their
power to the Province of Massachusetts- Bay.

24,

1775.

April
24,

XXXVII CONTENTS.

1775.

April Committee report that General Gage agrees to

23, let the Inhabitants leave the Town with their
effects, if they first lodge their Arms in Faneuil
Hall, or some other convenient place, under the
care of the Selectmen, ... - 375

The conditions are accepted, and the Committee
are directed to request of General Gage that
the Inhabitants may be removed by land or
water, as may be most convenient, - - 376
General Gage agrees to the request of the Com-
mittee, and promises to request the Admiral to
lend his boats to facilitate the removal by
water ; and desires a Letter may be written to
Dr. Warren to get permission for such persons
in the country as desire to come into Boston,

to do so, 376

The agreement accepted by the Meeting, and the
Committee desire the Inhabitants to deliver up
their Arms, ------ 377

27, Further Report of the Committee to the Town
Meeting of the final arrangements. The
People have surrendered their Arms, and are
to commence removing to-morrow morning, 377
The Meeting agrees to the arrangement; the
Town relying on the honour and faith of
General Gage that he will perform his part of
the contract, as they have faithfully performed
their part of it, - - - - - - 377

23, Letter from the Provincial Congress of Massa-
chusetts to the Provincial Congress of New-
Hampshire. The Provincial Congress having
unanimously resolved that it is our duty im-
mediately to establish an Army for the main-
tenance of our Rights, and that thirty thou-
sand Men should be raised in New-England,
the concurrence of New-Hampshire is earn-
estly requested, ----- 377

23, Letter from Jedediah Foster to the Massachusetts
Congress. Has seen Governour Trumbull,
who had previously received the tragical nar-
rative from Colonel Palmer; he will convene
the Assembly immediately, ... 378

23, Letter from Major McClary to the New-Hamp-
shire Congress. Two thousand Men from
New-Hampshire now at Cambridge, in great
want of proper Regulations and Field-Officers.
Five or six hundred Men inconsiderately
marched home, upon the improper statements
of one Captain Espy that they were not want-
ed; this has caused much uneasiness among
the remaining Troops, .... 373

)NVENTION.

379
379

379

XXXVIII

24,

24,
24,

24,
24,

24,

25,
25,

25,

25,

25,

25,

25,

25,

25,

25,

Captains of the Militia are requested to muster

and exercise their men once every week, - 382

Letter from the Committee of New- York to Go-
vernour Trumbull ; recommending to him to
intercept the Despatches for General Gage,
which arrived in the Packet this day. The
melancholy accounts from Boston have united
the Inhabitants of New- York, who have stop-
ped all supplies from the Army, and seized the
City Arms, 383

Agreement subscribed by Captain Arnold and his
Company of fifty persons, when they set out
from Connecticut, as volunteers to assist the
Provincials at Cambridge, - - - - 383

Letter from General Ward to the Massachusetts
Congress, requesting he may be furnished with
Enlisting Orders immediately, - - - 384

Letter from John Hancock to the Massachusetts
Committee of Safety. Requests to be furnished
with particular information as to the Army and
the Provincial Congress, ... - 384

Letter from Oliver Prescott to the Committee of
Safety, suggesting the appointment of a Town
Guard in every Town in the Province, - 385

Letter from the Massachusetts Committee of
Safety to the New-Hampshire Congress. Or-
ders have been given for enlisting such of the
men from New-Hampshire as are at present
in the service of the Colony, ... 385

Letter from H. Jackson to Col. Jeremiah Lee.
Recommends the establishment of Partisan
Corps; they performed better service in the
late war than any other Troops, - - - 386

Letter from London to a Gentleman in Massa-
chusetts, 386

Letter from London to a Gentleman of New-
Jersey. Fears are entertained on account of
Philadelphia and New- York. It is the union
of America which gives it strength ; the de-
fection of such important Provinces would give
great encouragement to our adversaries, - 387

Letter from the Officers of the Independent Com-
pany of Spottsylvania to Col. George Wash-
ington, proposing, with his approbation, to unite
with others, and march to Williamsburgh, for
protection of the Colony Stores, part having
been taken away by order of Lord Dunmore, 387

Letter from one of the Virginia Delegates, on his
way to the Congress, to his friend in Williams-
burgh. Intelligence has been received that
New- York is to be fortified and garrisoned, to
cut off the communication between the North-
ern and the Southern Colonies, - - - 387

Gloucester, Virginia, Committee. Premiums
offered for the manufacture of Gun-Powder,
and Wool and Cotton Cards. Lord Dunmore,
by the removal of the Powder from the Ma-
gazine, and other acts, has forfeited all title to
the confidence of the People of Virginia, - 388

Bedford County, Virginia, Committee, approve
the Resolutions of the Convention at Rich-
mond. Committee dissolved, and another
elected, May 23, 388

Paper addressed to Mr. De Lancey and others, of
New- York. The hostile preparations against
the Colonies were occasioned by assurance
from them of the defection and submission of
New- York, 389

Letter from Metcalf Bowler to the Massachu-
setts Congress. Encloses several Papers to
show what the Assembly has done. Rhode-
Island is firm and determined, - - - 389

Letter from Metcalf Bowler to the Speaker of the
House of Commons of Connecticut. A Com-
mittee has been appointed to consult with the
Assembly of Connecticut, upon measures for
the common defence of the four New-England
Colonies. Rhode- Island has passed an Act
for raising fifteen hundred Men for the general
cause, - - 389

Act of Rhode- Island for raising an Army of Ob-
servation, ------- 390

Resolution of Rhode- Island Assembly, authoriz-
ing the enlistment of fifteen hundred Men, - 390

Protest of four Members of the Upper House of
Assembly of Rhode-Island, against the pas-
sage of the Act for raising fifteen hundred
Men, 390

177.-..
I

25,

CONTEXTS.

i from John Hancock to thi Massachusetts

Safety, ----- 390
i from the Committee of Boston to the Com-
ly ; requesting Wagons may
be furnished to remove die Inhabitants from
Boston, and that those who wish to come into
the Town may he permitted to do so without
hinderance, - - - - - - 391

25, Account of the march of the British Troops.
Their attack on and killing a number of the
Inhabitants of Massachusetts: their taming
and destroying of private property, and of their
ii tv - <m, on the 19th of April, - 391
List of the Provincials who were Killed and
Wniinded by the British Troops on the 19th of
April, 392

25, Depositions taken by order of the Provincial
Congress of Massachusetts, in proof of the at-
tack of the Troops outlet General Gage, on the
People of the Province, on the 19th instant, - 489

25, Letter from John Sullivan to the President of the
Massachusetts Congress. There seems some
opposition in the New-Hampshire Congress
to the assistance Massachusetts has expected, - 393

25, Instructions of the Town of Williamstown, Mas-
sachusetts, to their Delegates to the Provincial
Congress. They are ready to assist with their
lives and fortunes in the common cause of
American Liberty, ----- 393

25, Letter from Colonel John Weritworth to the New-

Harnpshire Congress, ... - 394

26, Letter from a Merchant in London to his friend

in Virginia. Hopes the Non-Exportation Re-
solutions will be expunged; if they are adhered
to, Maryland and Virginia will lose the To-
bacco trade, - - - - - -394

26, Letter from Captain Grayson to Colonel George
Washington. His Company is ready to march
for Williamsburgh ; they may be depended on
for any service that respects the liberties of
America, ------- 395

24, Letter from the Officers of the Independent Com-
pany of Spottsylvania to Captain Grayson.
The People have received no satisfaction for
the Powder taken by Lord Dunmore ; a sub-
mission to this outrage will subject Virginia to
a suspicion of defection, .... 395

26, Henrico County, Virginia, Committee. The re-
moval of the Powder by Lord Dunmore is an
insult to every freeman; every endeavour will
be used to procure an immediate restitution
of it, 396

26, Address to the Publick, in defence of Mr. Gallo-
way and the " Plan of Union between Great
Britain and the Colonies," proposed by him in
the late Continental Congress, ... 396

26, Association, for defending with Arms, their pro-
perty, liberty, and lives, adopted at a meeting
of near eight thousand of the Inhabitants of
Philadelphia, ----.. 399

26, Letter from Reading, Pennsylvania. Two Com-
pnies of Foot have been raised in the Town;
in three weeks there will be one in every Town
in the County, ready to assert, at the risk of
their lives, the liberty of America, - - 400

26, Address of the New- York Committee, recom-
mending that a new Committee be elected by
the Freeholders and Freemen of the City and
County ; and that Delegates to a Provincial
Congress, to meet on the 22d of May next, be
chosen, 400

26, Letter from the Committee of Inspection for New-
port, Rhode-Island, to Genera Ward, - - 400

26, Letter from the Congress of New- Hampshire to
the Congress of Massachusetts. It is not
thought expedient now to establish an Army of
r vat ion; a Provincial Congress will meet
on the 17th of May next, who will no doubt
co-operate with their brethren in New-Eng-
land, 401

26, Letter from John Hancock to the Committee of
Safety, recommending several persons for Offi-
cers in the Army, 401

26, Letter from the Committ styof Massa-
chusetts to the Assembly of Rhode- Islaad ;
urging their immediate sestttai by forward-
ing aa la lire a number of Troops as they can,
well stocked with Provisions and Ammunition, 402

1775.

April
20,
26,

26,

26,
26,

XL

1775.

Address of the Provincial Congress of Massa-
chusetts to the Inhabitants of Great Britain, - 4^7

Letter from the Provincial Congress of Massa-
chusetts to Dr. Franklin, in London, enclosing
the Address to the Inhabitants of Great Bri-
tain, and the Depositions taken on the 25th;
requesting him to have them printed and cir-
culated throughout England, ... 488

Letter from the Falmouth, Massachusetts, Com-
mittee, to the Committee of Safety, asking their
assistance in procuring Powder, - 402

Letter from Colonel John Fenton to the People
of the County of Grafton, in New- Hampshire, 098

Intercepted Letter from Woodfield, in Canada, to
Colonel Philip Skene. The sooner the laws
are put in force against the Americans, the
better; procrastination encourages the sedi-
tious, and weakens Government. The Gov-
ernour's new Commission has been received, 402

New Commission to the Governour of Q-uebeck, 403

CONNECTICUT ASSEMBLY.

Apr.26,Assembly of Connecticut meets,

Governour and Council, ....

List of Representatives, -

Embargo laid to prohibit the exportation of Pro
visions by water, . - - - .

Committee to confer with General Gage, -

News Carriers to convey intelligence at the pub
lick expense, authorized,

Committee to procure Provisions for the Inhabi-
tants of the Colony who have gone to the as-
sistance of Massachusetts, - - - -

Act for Assembling, Equipping, &c, a number
of the Inhabitants of this Colony, for the spe-
cial defence and safety thereof, -

Forms of Commissions for the Officers of the
Troops raised for the special defence and safety
of the Colony, ------

Officers for the six Regiments raised for the de-
fence and safety of the Colony, - - -

Commissaries to supply Provisions for the Troops,

Committee for settling and paying accounts of
expenses incurred by raising Troops, -

Bills of Credit for fifty thousand Pounds autho-
rized, and a tax laid to sink the whole amount,

Committees to provide and take charge of Pow-
der and Military Stores for the use of the Co-
lony, - -

Committee to consider the best means of defend-
ing the Sea-Coasts, - - - - -

Committee to provide Carriages and other neces-
sary apparatus for the Cannon at New- London,

Enlistments for six Regiments under General
Spencer, authorized, - - - - -

Four Regiments to be got in readiness forthwith
to march to Boston, -----

An Act to exempt, for a limited time, the persons
of Debtors from being imprisoned for debt, -

Committee to inquire how far the Officers of the
Militia Company of Northbury, in the Town
of Waterbury, are inimical to the American
cause, ----._.

Permission given to Joseph Monson, of New-Ha-
ven, to transport twenty-six head of Cattle to
the West- Indies, -

Permission given to Joseph White, of Weathers-
field, to ship twenty Cattle,

Permission given to Hezekiah Smith
fourteen Cattle, ...

Assembly adjourned by Proclamation, without
day, .......

409
409
409

410
410

- 410

411

to ship

411

413

414

413

418
419

419

419

420

420

420

420

422

422
422

422

422

CORRESPONDENCE, PROCEEDINGS, ETC.

April Philadelphia Committee stop all Exportation
27, from Philadelphia to Qucbeck, Nova-Scotia,
Georgia, and Newfoundland, until the Con-
tinental Congress shall give further orders
therein, ....... 421

27, Letter from Stephen Hopkins to the President of
the Massachusetts Congress, informing them
of the seizure and detention of Mr. John
Brown, of Providence, and requesting them to
make the King's Officers answerable for the
treatment of Mr. Brown. Reprisals recom-
meuded by the Continental Congress, and

1775.

April
27,

CONTENTS.

•27,

27,

27.

27,

27,

27,

28,

28,
28,
28,

28,

28,

28,

28,

28,

sanctioned by the Colonics, are highly neces-
sary to be put in practice, ....

Letter from Colonel Isaac Lee to Governour
Trumbull. His Regiment is prepared with
arms and ammunition, and ready to march
at the shortest notice, ....

Letter from Jedediah Huntington to Jonathan
Trumbull, Jun. Great numbers of Troops, or
rather armed men, are at Roxbury, in much
confusion. It is expected that the Inhabitants
of Boston will be permitted to come out this
day, but many are suspicious that the General
intends to deceive them, till he gets possession
of their Arms, ------

Letter from the Massachusetts Committee of
Safety to the Selectmen of Boston. As soon
as it is known what time the Inhabitants are
permitted to leave Boston, those who wish to
take refuge there shall go in,

Letter from the Committee of Safety to the Se-
lectmen of Boston. It is reported that Gene-
ral Gage says the Provincials fired first upon
his detachment. This report creates the great-
est astonishment, as there is the clearest evi-
dence it is untrue, -

Letter from the Boston Committee to the Com-
mittee of Safety, enclosing the Agreement con-
cluded this day between General Gage and the
Committee, ......

Letter from Doctor Warren to Arthur Lee. The
measures of the Administration have brought
matters to a crisis. Lord Chatham and our
friends must make up the breach immediately,
or never. The next news from England must
be conciliatory, or the connection between us
ends, however fatal the consequences mav be,

Letter from Q.uebeck. The Governour' s new
Commission read there the 24th instant,

People assembling at Fredericksburgh, Virginia,
to march to Williamsburgh to demand a resti-
tution of the Powder taken by Lord Dunmore,

Proclamation by Governour Franklin, calling a
meeting of the Assembly of New-Jersey, on
the 15th of May next, ....

Meeting of Inhabitants at Perth Amboy, in New-
Jersey. Deputies to the Provincial Congress,
to meet on the 5th of May, appointed,

Address of the New-York Committee to the
Freeholders and Freemen of the City and
County of New- York, recommending the
election of a new Committee, to consist of one
hundred Members, on Monday next, the first
of May, and at the same time to choose Dele-
gates to a Provincial Congress, - - -

Letter from the Committee of New- York to the
Committees of the several Counties in the Co-
lony, urging the immediate election of Depu-
ties to a Provincial Congress, to meet on the
22d of May,

" An American" to the Inhabitants of New-
York. Outrages of the British Troops on the
19th of April. Both the King and Ministry
are determined, at all hazards, to destroy Ame-
rican liberty. There is nothing now left for
us but to appeal to God, and use what strength
we have in (It fence of our liberty,

Letter from Thomas Brown to Colonel George
Pitkin. General Gage has opened the gnti s,
and given permission to the Inhabitants of
Boston to leave the Town, ...

Letter from the Massachusetts Congress to the
Congress of New-Hampshire. A powerful
army on our side must be raised at once. The
other Colonies, as well as this, are fully con-
vinced, that by immediate and vigorous exer-
tions they may establish their liberty and save
their Country, ......

Letter from Cambridge to a Gentleman in New-
port, Rhode-Island. Our countrymen swarm
to our defence from all quarters. We are
busily organizing our Troops, and shall soon
have an annv of thirty thousand in the field.
We have some hopes the Inhabitants of Bos-
ton will be permitted to leave the Town this
day. They delivered up their Arms yester-
day,

Letter from Stephen Hopkins to the Massachu-
setts Congress, ------

421

423

423

424

424

424

425
425

426

426

426

427

428

428

429

429

430
430

XLll

1775.
April Letter from James Angell to the Massachusetts

28, Congress. Will, on any alarm, furnish six
hundred men from the three Battalions under
his command in Providence, Rhode- Island, - 431

28, Letter from Providence, Rhode- Island, to the
Massachusetts Congress. The Assembly pass-
ed an act for raising Men, but as they omittc d
to authorize enlistments, no Men can be raised
under it, - - - - - - - 431

28, Letter from the Massachusetts Congress to Ste-

phen Hopkins. Samuel Murray and two Of-
ficers of General Gage's Army will be sent to
Providence, to be made use of for obtaining the
liberty of Mr. Brown, .... 432

29, Letter from the Massachusetts Congress to Ste-

phen Hopkins, informing that the arrangement
made with General Gage for the release of the
Inhabitants of Boston prevents sending the hos-
tages mentioned in their letter of yesterday, - 432

28, Letter from the Committee of Safety to the seve-
ral Towns in Massachusetts, conjuring them
by all that is sacred to give all assistance in
forming the Army, ..... 433

28, Letter from the Newburyport Committee to the
Committee of Safety, recommending Christian
Febiger, a Dane, for an appointment in the
Army, 433

28, Letter from the Selectmen of Sanbornton to the
New-Hampshire Congress. They are with-
out Ammunition, and cannot obtain any, - 433

28, Letter from Governour Trumbull to General

Gage. The People of Connecticut dread
nothing so much as a civil war, but will de-
fend their rights to the last extremity, - - 433

29, Letter from General Gage to Governour Trum-

bull, transmitting him a circumstantial account
of the unhappy affair that happened on the

19th instant, 434

A circumstantial account of an Attack that hap-
pened on the 19th of April, 1775, on His Ma-
jesty's Troops, by a number of the People of
the Province of the Massachusetts-Bay, trans-
mitted by General Gage to Governour Trum-
bull, 435

Account of an Attack upon a body of the King's
Troops, by a number of People of the Pro-
vince of Massachusetts-Bay, on the 19th of
April, 1775, transmitted by General Gage to
Lord Dunmore, ..... 436

Account of an Attack on the Inhabitants of Mas-
sachusetts, by the British Troops, acting under
the orders of General Gage, on the 19th of

April, 1775, 437

Extracts from several intercepted Letters, written
by Soldiers in the Army at Boston, of the En-
gagement on the 19th of April, - - 439-441

29, A serious admonition to the Inhabitants of Wil-
liamsburgh, Virginia, on the excitement caused
by the removal of the Powder by Lord Dun-
more. The Powder could only belong to the
King, and none but him, or his representatives,
could of right use it, - - - - - 441

29, Letter from the Officers of the Albemarle Volun-
teers to Colonel George Washington. They
are ready to march to Williamsburgh, and
compel the immediate delivery of the Powder
taken by Lord Dunmore, .... 442

29, Determination of a Council of one hundred and
two Members, at Fredericksburgh, assembled
in consequence of the seizure of the Powder
at Williamsburgh by Lord Dunmore, - 443

29, Letter from John Dickinson to Arthur Lee. The
impious war of tyranny against innocence has
commenced in the neighbourhood of Boston.
The Continent is preparing for a vigorous re-
sistance. We are a united, a resolved People.
Our Smiths and Povvder-Mills are at work
night and day. Supplies are continually ar-
riving, .......

29, Association of the City and County of N. York,

29, Letter from Oliver De Lancey, denying the au-
thenticity of a Publication in an English Paper
over the initials of his name, ...

29, Recantation of Jonathan Fowler and George
Cornwall, of Westchester, New- York,

29, Letter from the Boston Committee to the Provin-
cial Congress, ------

29, Letter from the Committee of Safety to the Com-

444
471

445
416
446

XLI1I

it?;.

April
29,

30,
30,

30,

30,
30,
30,

30,

30,

May 1

mittees of the several Towns in Massachu-
-. urging them to send forward Men lor the
Army, .------

from Samuel Thompson to the Massachu-
setts Committee of Safety. At the Eastward,
all are for the Country but three; one of these
has deseited, the other two are in irons,
Recantation of Stephen Holland, of Londonderry,

-I lampshire, -

LetM from Alexander Spottswood to Colonel
George Washington, -

Address of Jaeobu Loaw to the Publick, contra-
dicting the charge of the Ulster County Com-
mittee, that he is unfriendly to Liberty,

Letter from John Sullivan, at New- York, to the
Committee of Correspondence for Portsmouth,
New-Hampshire. New- York is nearly una-
nimous; yesterday six or seven thousand de-
clared /or Liberty at all hazards. They have
stopped the Custom- House, and seized the City
Arms. All denominations are under Arms,
and in high spirits. Rivington has made a
Recantation. Cooper has decamped. The
People with difficulty were prevented from
taking the lives of some of the Traitors,

Letter from Theophilus Morgan to Governour
Trumbull, requesting permission for his Ves
sel to sail for the West- Indies,

Letter from the Committee of Safety to the Bos-
ton Committee, transmitting a Vote of the Pro-
vincial Congress, -

Letter from Portsmouth, New-Hampshire, to the
Massachusetts Congress. The Messenger with
the Despatches for Gen. Gage passed through
Northampton yesterday, -

Letter from Benedict Arnold to the Massachu-
setts Committee of Safety, giving the number
of Cannon, &c, at Ticonderoga,

Letter from the Massachusetts Committee of Safe-
ty to the New- York Committee, informing
them that it has been proposed to take Ticon-
deroga, but will not infringe on the rights of

New- York,

, Letter from the Norfolk, Virginia, Committee, to
the Committee for Prince George's County, in-
forming them of a violation of the Association
by Captain Charles Alexander, - - -

Meeting of the Freeholders of King William
County, Virginia. Deputies to the Convention
chosen. One hundred and seventy-five Pounds
contributed for the relief of the sufferers in Mas-
sachusetts, -

CONTENTS.

1775.

May I,

XLIV

446

- 447

t

- 447

447

448

448

- 449

449

450

450

450

327

- 450

PENNSYLVANIA ASSEMBLY.

May 1, Pennsylvania Assembly, - - - 451-458

Letter from the Agents in England to Charles
Thompson, laid before the House,

Message from the Governour to the Assembly, -

Letter from the Speaker of the Assembly of New-
York, with sundi y Papers, ...

Committee to prepare an Answer to the Govern-
our's Message, .....

Answer of the House to the Governour's Mes-
sage,

Petition from a number of the Inhabitants of
Philadelphia, praying the House to raise and
apply fifty thousand Pounds towards putting
the Province in a state of defence,

Petition presented yesterday considered, -
6, Benjamin Franklin, who arrived yesterday from
London, appointed one of the Delegates to the
Continental Congress, ....

Thomas Willing and James Wilson added to the
Delegation, ----..

Petition from Philadelphia further considered, -

Petition from the Committee of Philadelphia pre-
sented,

Instructions to the Delegates to the Continental
Congress, ----..

Committee appointed, with authority to pay the
engagements enteral into by the Philadelphia
Committee for the publick security,

Committee to provide such Stores as may be ne-
cessary for the service of the Province,

ph Galloway excused from serving as a

Deputy to the Continental Congn - 457

13, Adjourned to Monday, J, ne 19th, - - - 458

2,

3,
4,

5,

9.

11,

12,

451
452

453

454

454

455
455

455

456

456

456

456

456

456

CORRESPONDENCE, PROCEEDINGS, ETC.

Meeting of Freeholders and Inhabitants of Mor-
ris County, New-Jersey. Delegates appointed
to a County Congress, vested with the power
of Legislation, and to raise Men, Money and
Arms, for the common defence, - - - 457

1, Delegates to the County Congress meet. Wil-

liam Winds chosen Chairman, and Archibald

Dallas, Clerk, 457

Voted unanimously that Forces be raised, - 457

2, Five Companies of Volunteers, of sixty men each,

to be raised in the County, - - 457

William Winds appointed Colonel, and William

De Hart, Major, 458

In case of any invasion or alarm, in this or the
neighbouring Provinces, the Regiment to be
called into service, .... - 458

Powder and Lead ordered to be purchased, - 458
Inhabitants of the County advised to provide
themselves with Arms and Ammunition for
defence, in case of invasion, - _ - - 458

Resolves of this Congress to be subject to the
control of the Provincial and Continental Con-
gresses, ------- 458

Adjourned to meet on the ninth of this month, - 459
1, Letter from the Committee of Woodbridge, in
New-Jersey, to the Committees in Massachu-
setts. A Provincial Congress will soon meet,
and in the mean time the People of New-Jer-
sey are preparing for the contest, determined
to stand or fall with the liberties of America, - 459
1, New General Committee for the City and County

of New- York elected, .... 459

1, Deputies elected by the City of New- York to

the Provincial Congress, .... 459

1, Meeting of the Lieutenant-Governour and Coun-
cil of New- York. Reasons assigned by the
Council for their advice to the Lieutenant-Go-
vernour to prorogue the Assembly, - - 460
1, Proclamation by Lieutenant Governour Colden
to prorogue the Assembly to the 7th of June

next, 461

1, Meeting of Freeholders in Richmond County,
New- York. Delegates to the Provincial
Congress appointed, - - - - - 83 1
1, Letter from Timothy Pickering to the Massachu-
setts Committee of Safety. A Regiment may
• be enlisted in Salem, if Field-Officers are ap-
pointed, - - 461

1, Letter from the Boston Committee to Dr. Warren, 461
1, Letter from Lemuel Williams to the Massachu-
setts Congress, desiring to know if the Mer-
chants of Dartmouth may send their Vessels
with Provisions to sea, .... 462

1, Petition of Jonathan Brewer to Massachusetts

Congress, for permission to raise five hundred
Volunteers to march on Quebeck, by way of
the Rivers Kennebeck and Chaudiere, - ' - 462

2, Letter from Holland to the Rev. William Gor-

don. Efforts of the British Government in
Holland and France to prevent supplies of
Arms and Ammunition to the Americans, - 463

2, Letter from an American Gentleman in Paris to
his friend in Philadelphia. The French arc
strongly in favour of the Americans, - - 464

2, Gloucester County, Virginia, Committee, prohibit

the Exportation of Tobacco to England, - 464

2, Meeting of the Governour and Council of Vir-

ginia. Address of the Governour to the Coun-
cil, justifying his seizure of the Powder, and
asking their advice on the propriety of issuing
a Proclamation calling on the People to show
their allegiance to the King at this time, when
schemes are meditated in the Colony for sub-
verting the present, and erecting a new form
of Government, - 4Q4

3, Proclamation by Lord Dunmore, by advice of

the Council, requiring all Officers, civil and
military, to suppress the spirit of Faction which
prevails among the People, .... 455
2, Meeting of the Committee for Kent County,
Delaware. Letter from Robert Holliday, ac-
knowledging he wrote the Paper purporting
to be an extract of a Letter from Kent County,
voted not satisfactory, .... 455

Further concessions made by Robert Holliday

May 9, voted satisfactory, .... 455

XLV

1775.

May 2, Letter from Philadelphia to a Gentleman in Lon-
don. Preparations in the Colonies for re-
sistance, ------- 467

2, New-Jersey Committee of Correspondence, re-
commend an immediate Meeting of the Pro-
vincial Congress, ----- 467

2, Letter from the Committee of Richmond County
to the Committee of New- York, informing
them of their election, and of the adoption of
the measures recommended by the New- York
Committee, 831

1, Meeting of the New- York General Committee, 468
Address from Samuel Broome, on the part of one

hundred citizens who formed themselves into a
Military Association, offering their services in
carrying into effect the General Association, - 468
Every person in the City and County required
to sign the Association, except the Lieutenant-
Governour, ------ 4G8

Rules for the government of the Committee, - 468
Committee to purchase Arms, Ammunition, and
Provisions, ..---- 469

2, Every Inhabitant to perfect himself in Military

Discipline, and provide Arms and Ammuni-
tion, 470

Committee to remove all the Cannon from the
Town that are private property, - 470

Committee to ascertain from the Inhabitants what
Military Stores and Arms they have for their
own use, and for sale, .... 470

Committees for carrying about the Association to

obtain the signatures of the Inhabitants, - 470

Committee to prepare an Address to the Lieuten-
ant-Go vernour, - - - - 471

Committee of Correspondence and Intelligence
appointed, - - - - - -471

General Association signed by the Inhabitants of
the City of New- York, and sent to all the
Counties in the Province to be signed, - - 471

Letter from Governour Wanton to the General
Assembly of Rhode-Island. Prevented by
indisposition from attending the Assembly.
Sends them the Letter from Lord Dartmouth,
of March 3, with Lord North's Resolution,
and recommends their compliance with the
terms of it, - - - - - - 471

2, Letter from the Providence, Rhode-Island, Com-
mittee to the Massachusetts Committee of Safe-
ty. The Assembly will meet to-morrow, when
the situation of Massachusetts, and of Ameri-
ca in general, will be seriously attended to, - 472
2, Letter from a Gentleman in Connecticut to his
friend in New- York. General Gage cannot
penetrate into the Country thus far, with fifty
thousand men. The Assembly have sent two
Gentlemen to General Gage, to tell him if his
hostile proceedings are continued the whole
Country will be armed against him, - - 472
2, Letter from Nathaniel Freeman to Dr. Church.
He is ready to execute any orders from the
Committee of Safety, in the cause of God and
his Country, ------ 473

2, Letter from General Thomas to the Massachu-
setts Committee of Safety. Has taken posses-
sion of a number of Papers of Governour
Hutchinson, found at Milton. Many more are
supposed to be there ; requests the directions of

the Committee, 473

2, Letter from the Provincial Congress of Massa-
chusetts to their Del' gates at Connecticut. The
appointment of two Gentlemen by Connecticut,
to treat with General Gage on the subject of
American Grievances, and to propose a cessa-
tion of hostilities, has caused great alarm.
Any proposals made separately, by a single
Colony, may produce most tremendous effects
with regard to America, will weaken the union
of the Colonies, and endanger the common
cause. They are directed to lay this matter
fully before the Assembly of Connecticut, - 780
2, Letter from the Committee of Safety of Massa-
chusetts to the Governour of Connecticut.
They object to the proposition made by the
Assembly of Connecticut to General Gage, for
a cessation of hostilities ; they can agree to no
compact with General Gage, who has deceived
them; lie, with his Troops, must be driven out
of the Country, which, with the blessing of

CONTENTS.

XLVI

1775.

God, they will accomplish, or perish in the

attempt, 473

May 2, Letter from the Committee of Safety to Mr. Vose,
at Milton, in relation to a paper maker, who is
a prisoner, ---... 474

2, Letter from Richard Derby, Jun., to General

Ward. Information received of a Fleet and
Transports with Troops for Boston, - - 474

3, Letter from Richard Glover of London, to Mat-

thew Tilghman of Maryland, vindicating Mr.
Molleson, a merchant in London, from the
charge of being unfriendly to the Colonies, - 474

3, Letter from the Earl of Dartmouth to Governour
Wright, of Georgia, approving his conduct in
preventing the present disorders in America
from spreading through the Province, - - 475

3, Letter from the Earl of Dartmouth to the Gov-
ernour of North-Carolina. Advises him to
embody the men in Guilford, Dobbs, Rowan,
and Surry Counties, in support of the Govern-
ment. The loyalty these Counties have ex-
pressed in their Addresses to the Governour
has been most graciously received by His
Majesty, who will not fail to afford them marks
of his Royal favour, ----- 476

3, Committee of Amelia County, Virginia, direct
the Militia of the County to be embodied, and
make provision for procu ring Powder and Lead
for their use, ----.. 476

3, Committee of New-Kent County, Virginia. —
Condemn the conduct of Lord Dunmore, in
seizing the Powder, and thank the Committee
of Hanover for their attempt to recover it. —
Company of Volunteers to be formed, and
ready to act on any emergency, - - 477

3, Committee of Cumberland County, Virginia. —
Thanks to Captain Scott and his Independent
Company for their prompt offers of service to
defend the Colony against wicked invaders, - 478

3, Letter from the Earl of Dartmouth to the Gov-
ernour of Pennsylvania. It gives His Ma-
jesty great concern to find that there is no
appearance of the People of Pennsylvania re-
turning to a just sense of their duty, - - 478

3, Meeting of the Association in Philadelphia. The
Provincial Arms and Powder are all secured.
Three Magazines are forming, and in three
weeks there will be four thousand men well
equipped for the defence of Philadelphia, or
for the assistance of their neighbours, - 478

3, Meeting of the Inhabitants of Aquackanonck, in
New-Jersey. Association entered into and
subscribed. General Committee chosen, and
Delegates to the Provincial Convention ap-
pointed, 478

3, Address of Isaac Wilkins, of Westchester, New-
York, to his Countrymen, on leaving America, 479

3, Meeting of the Inhabitants of Orangetown, in
New- York. Appoint Deputies to the Provin-
cial Congress, - - - - - 831

3, Meeting of the New- York Committee, - - 479
Letter from John Cruger and Jacob Walton, as-
signing their reasons for not signing the Asso-
ciation, - - - - - - 479

Committee to ascertain the causes for the dis-
charge of the Eastern Post-Rider, - - 480
Thanks to the Officers and Men of the Connec-
ticut Troops who have marched to this City,
for its defence, ------ 480

Committee appointed to confer with four Gentle-
men from Philadelphia, - - - - 481

Letter received from the Inhabitants of Ulster
County, requesting advice and aid in procur-
ing Arms and Ammunition, ... 481
Committee report that Mr. Foxcroft, the Post-
Master, informed them he had discharged the
Post-Riders, because the four last Mails were
stopped, broken open, and the Letters taken
out and publickly read, - - - - 481

4, Committee appointed to examine the Ground at
and near King's Bridge, to ascertain its fit-
ness for Fortifications, - - - - 481

The discharged Post-Riders to be employed to
depart on the usual days, and go the usual
Stages. Mr. Ebenezer Hazard has under-
taken to receive and forward the Letters, - 482
3, Letter from General Gage to Governour Trum-
bull, in reply to his Letter of April 28 Justi-

XI-VTI

177.-..

CONTENTS.

xlviii

May 3,
3,

3.

4.

I.

- 482

483

484

485

485

48G

501

502

his conduct, mid denies it is Ins intention
e and desolate the Country
charges of outrages against his Troops for

r conduct on the l'.'th of April, are con-
trary to their known humanity; they acted
with great te othto theytrangaad

the oM; !)■• has found no instance of their
cruelty or barbarity, -

i this Letter, addressed to the Printer

of the Massachusetts Spy, . - - •

Certificate in favour of Ebeuezer Branson, Jun.,

of Cambridge, ------

Orders of the Massachusetts Committee of Safe-
ty to Benedict Arnold, comtnande* of a body
of Troops on an Expedition to subdue and
take possession of the Fort of Tieonderoga, -
Petition of the Selectmen of Brainlroe, Wey-
mouth, and Hingham, in Massachusetts, to the
Committee of Safety, representing their de-
fenceless condition, and asking for assistance,
Petition of James Cargill, commander of the Li-
berty-men in New-Castle, praying a supply of
Ammunition from the Massachusetts Con-
gress, -------

Letter from the Provincial Congress of Massa-
chusetts to the honourable American Congress,
to be convened at Philadelphia, on the tenth
of May, instant, enclosing copies of Deposi-
tions, an Address to the Inhabitants of Great
Britain, and a Letter to Dr. Franklin, Colony
Agent in London, ... - 486-501

Letter from Alexander Scammell to John Sulli-
van, - - - - - -

Letter from the Committee of Brunswick to the
Massachusetts Committee of Safety. The
Town, deficient in Arms and Ammunition,
have sent to Salern, but cannot buy them;
apply for assistance, - - - - -

Committee for Norfolk County, Virginia, ap-
prove the Proceedings of the Convention at
Richmond. Lord Dunmore's Letter to the
Earl of Dartmouth, dated December 24, 1774,
grossly misrepresents the People of this Colo-
ny, and especially the Magistrates. Strictures
on the Letter, refuting its atrocious and defama-
tory charges, ------

Letter from Captain Montague, of His Majesty's
Ship Fowey, to Thomas Nelson, President of
His Majesty's Council in Virginia, threaten-
ing to fire upon the Town of York, if a de-
tachment he had sent to protect Lord Dunmore
at Williamsburgh should be fired upon,

Proceedings of the Committee of York on this
Letter, -------

Meeting of the Inhabitants of Upper Freehold,
Monmouth County, New-Jersey. Will risk
every consequence rather than submit to the
claims set up by the British Parliament. Four
Companies formed for the common defence,
and Money subscribed to procure Powder, -

Meeting of the Freeholders and Inhabitants of
Newark, in New-Jersey. Association agreed
to. Deputies to the Provincial Congress ap-
pointed. Powers of the General Committee
continued. Committee of Correspondence ap-
pointed, -----..

Letter from a Gentleman in New- York to his
Correspondent in London. All the Provinces
refuse submission to the late Acts of Parlia-
ment, and will oppose at the risk of their lives
and fortunes all who come to enforce them, -

Mr. Goddard on a journey to the Eastward, to
put the Posts on a proper footing, to be laid
before Congress, ...

Letter from Governour Trumbull to Doctor War-
ren. The Assembly will pursue with firm-
ness, deliberation and unanimity, the measures
which appear best for our common defence and
safety. It is hoped no ill consequences will
attend tin ir Embassy to General Gage,

Letter from the Commie of Massa

chusetts to ( lovernour Trumbull, requesting he
will immediately send three or four thousand
Men, to enable them to secure a pass of the
greatest importance to the common interest,
which General Gage will possess himself of
i' -enforcement i arrive, if not
prevented now, ..... ^qq

1775.

May 4,

4,

502

504

504

504

505

506

- 506

- 506

4,

4,

o.

o,

5,
5,
5,

5,

5,

•r>,

B|

Letter from the Committee of Safety of Y

chusetts to the New- York Committee,
Letter from a ( Sentleman at Pittsfield to an Offi-
cer at Cambridge. Colonel Baston left here
on the 2d instant, on an expedition against Ti-
eonderoga and Crown Point, expecting to be
re-enforced by Colonel Ethan Allen, with his
Green Mountain Boys. The' plan was con-
d on the 28th of April, at Hartford, by the
< iovernour and Council, John Hancock and
Samuel Adams being present. The Tories
have been very troublesome at Pittsfield; some
have been arrested and sent to Northampton
Jail,

Application of the Selectmen of Topsham to the
Massachusetts Congress, for Powder, -

Letter from Colonel Thomas Gilbert to his sons.
Arrived safe in Boston, where he expects to
stay till the Rebels are subdued; urges them
not to join those wicked sinners, the Rebels,
but to die by the sword rather than be hanged
as Rebels, - - - - "

Letter from London to a Gentlemen in New-
York. Major Skene has told the Ministry
that he can bribe all the Members of the Con-
tinental Congress, and has been sent to Phila-
delphia for that purpose, - - -

New-York Committee. Letter to the several
Colonies adopted and forwarded. Letter re-
ceived from Richmond County, where they
have chosen Members to the Provincial Con-
gress. Answer to the Address of Captain
Broome. Letter received from Annapolis,
dated May 1. Letter to the Lord Mayor of
London approved of. Letter from Albany,
dated May 3, received: Committee directed to
confer with Messrs. Hancock and Adams, on
the subject of this Letter, - - - -

Letter from the New-York Committee to the
several Colonies, -

Letter from the New- York Committee to the
Mayor and Corporation of London,

Letter from the Members of the New- York As-
sembly to General Gage, urging him imme-
diately to cease further hostilities, until His
Majesty can be apprised of the situation of the
American Colonies, ....

Meeting of the Committees of Suffolk County,
New- York. Deputies for the County to the
Provincial Congress appointed, ...

Letter from the Committees of Suffolk County
to the Committee for Brookhaven, informing
them of their appointment of Deputies, and
requesting their concurrence, ...

Letter from the Selectmen of Worcester to the
Massachusetts Congress, - - - -

Letter from the Massachusetts Congress to the
Assembly of Connecticut. The absurdity of
the assertion of General Gage, that the People
of Massachusetts first commenced hostilities,
will appear when the great inequality of the
Lexington Company and Detachment of Re-
gular Troops which attacked them, is consi-
dered. No dependance can be placed in the
assertions or professions of General Gage ;
he has been preparing for war, while he was
amusing us with pretensions of kindness and
benevolence. It is the opinion of the Congress
that a powerful Army is the best and only
measure left to bring the present disputes to a
happy issue,

Letter from the Provincial Congress of Massa
chusetts to General Ward. The liberation of
the Inhabitants of Boston being obstructed,
he is requested strictly to execute the orders
of the Congress respecting Permits into the
country, ......

Petition from the Settlements on the Sheepscot
River and Deer's River (without the limits of
any Town) to the Massachusetts Congress, for
a supply of Powder and Ball, to enable them
to assist in vindicating American Liberty,

Letter from Enoch Freeman to the Massachu-
setts Congress. The Penobscot Indians being
exasperateil with Capt Goldthwaite, it would
be prudent for the Congress to send down there
and secure the Indi ins in our interest. The
Selectmen of Falmouth have sent persons to

507

507
508

508

- 503

509
510
510

513

831

832
513

- 786

787

514

XLIX

1775.

May 5,

CONTENTS.

go over to Gluebeck to see if the Canadians
are in motion to come on our back settlements, 514
Petition of Timothy Langdon to the Massachu-
setts Congress, complaining of Colonel Thomp-
son, of Brunswick, who has seized Edward
Parry, for having prepared Masts for the King;
the matter having been previously examined
and disposed of by the Committees of Lincoln, 515
5, Letter from James Gowen, of Kittery, to Gene-
ral Ward, asking permission for Johnson Moul-
ton to raise a Regiment, - - - - 515

5, Letter from General Thomas to the Massachu-

setts Committee, requesting them to send per-
sons to examine the Trunks of Governour
Hutchinson, - - - - - -515

6, Letter from the Committee of Safety to General

Thomas. The effects of all persons are to go
into Boston without search or detention; there-
fore the Trunks of Governour Hutchinson are
not to be detained or injured, - - - 515

6, Proclamation by Lord Dunmore, charging all per-
sons, on their allegiance, not to aid, abet, or
give countenance to a certain Patrick Henry,
of Hanover County, or any of his deluded fol-
lowers, - - - - - - -516

6, Letter from Carlisle, in Pennsylvania, to a Gen-
tleman in Philadelphia. About three thousand
men have associated, and about fifteen hundred
are prepared. The Committee have directed
that five hundred men be taken into pay imme-
diately, - - - - - - - 516

6, Printed Letter to the Regular Soldiers of Great
Britain, distributed among the Soldiers in the
Barracks in New- York, - - - - 516

6, Delegates from Massachusetts to the Continental
Congress received in New- York on the 8th:
' with the Delegates from New- York, received
in New-Jersey, - - - - - 517

6, Letter from the Rev. William Gordon, with a
copy of a Paper found among those of the late
Josiah duincy, - - - - -518

6, Letter from Montreal. Occurrences there on the
1st of May, when the new Ouebeck Act took
effect in Canada, - - - - -518

6, Letter from William Whipple to the Massachu-
setts Congress, on the arrest of Mr. Parry by
Colonel Thompson, ----- 520

6, Letter from Metcalf Bowler to the Massachusetts
Committee of Safety. The Assembly of Rhode-
Island are using every method in their power to
have their men in readiness to take the field as
early as possible, ..... 520

NEW-HAMPSHIRE ASSEMBLY.

May 4, New-Hampshire Assembly, - 519

List of the Members, - - - - - 519

5, Directed to choose a Speaker, ... 520
John Wentworth chosen Speaker, ... 520

6, Letter from the Speaker of the House of Repre-

sentatives of New- York laid before the House, 521

Speech of Governour Wentworth to both Houses, 522

Assembly adjourned to the 12th of June next, - 524

CORRESPONDENCE, PROCEEDINGS, ETC.

May 7, Letter from Thomas Jefferson to Dr. William

Small,

7, Letter from the Massachusetts Committee of Safe-
ty to the Committee of Albany, New- York, -
7, Letter from the Massachusetts Committee of Safe-
ty to Col. James Scammons. It is understood
that it would be agreeable to the people of
York that Johnson Moulton should have the
command of the Regiment to be raised there,
and therefore request Colonel Scammons to
give way for him, ....

7, Order of Admiral Graves to Lieutenant Graves,

to seize a Vessel at Marblehead, and bring her
into Boston, -

8, Resolution of the Common Council of Williams-

burgh, Virginia, on the breaking into the Ma-
gazine and taking thence the Fire-Arms,
8, Meeting of the Sussex County, Virginia, Com-
mittee. Declare the Letter of Lord Dunmore
to the Earl of Dartmouth, dated December 24,
1774, to be fraught with calumny, falsehoods
and illiberal reflections against the People of

Fourth Series. — Vol. if.

523

523

- 524
525
525

1775.

May 8.

8,

%

10,

11,

12,

14,

8,
8,

8,

Virginia. Direct Troops to be raised, Offi-
cers appointed, and Ammunition furnished. —
Committee of Intelligence and Correspondence
appointed, ......

Meeting of the Freeholders of Mecklenburgh
County, Virginia. Appoint a Committee to
secure a due observance of the Continental As-
sociation, and every member of the Committee
required to exert his endeavours to enlist Vo-
lunteers, as required by the late Provincial
Convention, ......

Meeting of Prince George, Virginia, Commit-
tee. Every person importing any Goods into
this County must, before they are landed, pro-
duce a Certificate from the Committee whence
they were reshipped, that they were imported
into this Colony before the 1st day of Febru-
ary last. Committee of Intelligence appointed,

Proceedings in relation to Capt. Charles Alexan-
der, .......

Louisa County, Virginia, Committee. Thanks
to Captain Patrick Henry and the Hanover
Volunteers, for procuring satisfaction for the
Gunpowder taken by Lord Dunmore, -

Meeting of the Freeholders of Westchester Coun-
ty, New- York. Deputies to the Provincial
Congress appointed. The Committee then
signed the Association, and appointed Sub-
Committees to superintend the signing of it
throughout the County, -

New-York Committee. Members present,

All persons importing Arms or Ammunition
required to deliver them to the Committee in
ten days, and all persons prohibited from dis-
posing of any in any other manner,

Committee directed to report a Resolution for the
regulation of such vessels as shall depart with
Provisions, ......

Committee appointed to have the Muskets fitted
with steel Rammers, ...

Thanks to Mr. Sharpe for delivering a number
of Arms gratis, ....

Committee to prepare a Letter to the Delegates
in Congress, requesting the advice of the Con-
tinental Congress with respect to the conduct
to be observed towards any Troops that may
arrive here, -

Address to the Lieutenant-Governour read and
approved of, ----- -

Committee appointed to convey the earliest intel-
ligence to the Counties in this Province,

Physicians requested to abstain from inoculating
for the Small-Pox, ....

Committee appointed to present the Address of
the Committee to the Lieutenant-Governour.
No Inhabitant to be treated as an enemy to the
Country but by order of the Continental or
Provincial Congress, or this Committee,

Committee of Correspondence directed to write
to the neighbouring Committees to prevent the
Man-of-War in the Harbour from being sup-
plied with Provisions for the Troops at Bos-
ton, from New-Jersey or Staten-Island,

Address of the Committee to Lieutenant-Govern-
our Colden, ......

His Honour's Answer, - - - - -

Petition from the Inhabitants of Ridgebury, in
the Township of Ridgefield, to Gov. Trumbull,

Committee of Maiden and Chelsea order their
suspicions, of Doctor Samuel Danforth's at-
tachment to the Country, to be communicated
to General Ward, ....

A Constitutional Post-Office is now rising on
the ruins of the Parliamentary one,

List of the Post-Offices established, ...

Mr. Holt's Post-Office in New- York, (Note,) -

Letter from the Provincial Congress of Massa-
chusetts to the Selectmen of the Town of
Hopkinton. A violation of the natural right
of an individual to remove his person and
effects wherever he pleases, would ill become
those who are contending for the inalienable
right of every man to his own property, and to
dispose of it as he pleases. It is hoped that Mr.
Barret's example will not become infectious, -

Letter from the Provincial Congress of Massa-
chusetts to the Committee from Portsmouth,
New-Hampshire, - . . . .

526

526

527

527

- 529

529
529

530

530

- 531

r

- 531

- 531

531

- 532

- 532

532

- 533

533

534

536

- 536

536
537
538

791

79i

LI
1775.

May 8,

a.

CONTENTS.

1775.

LU

9,

9,
9.

9,

9,

4.

t,

9,

9,

9.

9,

10,

Letter from the Provincial Congress of M

• us to General Ward, directing him to
apprehend certain named eenooa, aad bring
them before the Committee of Safety for
examination, ------

Liter from Samuel Mather to the Massachusetts

Oeacreaa; onrilnaina General Gage's areum-

slanlial aceomit of lie- engagement on the
19th of April,

Letter from the Selectmen of Worcester to the
Massachusetts Congress. Samuel Paine and
William Campbell sent to Watertown, as per-
sons disaffected to the Country, - - -

Imposition of Gardner Chandler, -

Spottsylvania County, Virginia, Committee, ap-
prove of the Proceedings of Captain Patrick
I It nry, concerning the Powder taken from the
Magazine by Lord Dunmore, -

Orange County, Virginia, Committee, declare the
removal of the Powder by Lord Dunmore
was fraudulent ; that the reprisal made by the
Hanover Volunteers merits the approbation of
the public k : and present an Address of thanks
to Captain Patrick Henry, - - - -

Meeting of the Hanover County, Virginia, Com-
mittee. Report of the Proceedings of the
Hanover Volunteers in making reprisals for
the Powder seized by Lord Dunmore, -

Patrick Henry's receipt for three hundred and
thirty Pounds, as a compensation for the Pow-
der taken from the Magazine in Williams-
burgh, by order of Lord Dunmore,

Letter from Patrick Henry to Robert Carter
Nicholas, informing him that the aftair of the
Powder is settled, and offering a guard for the
Treasury, ......

Letter from a Gentleman in Bucks County,
Pennsylvania, to his friend in Philadelphia.
Several Towns of the County have begun to
form Military Associations, ...

Meeting of the Committee for Bucks County,
Pennsylvania. Proceedings of the Conven-
tion in January, approved. Inhabitants of the
Towns in the County recommended to asso-
ciate to improve in the Military Art. Dele-
gates to a Provincial Convention appointed, -

Bedford County, Pennsylvania, Committee. Mili-
tary Associations to be formed throughout the
County immediately; Powder and Lead to be
furnished. If any person shall refuse to enrol
himself in some Company, he shall not be
permitted to have any dealing, by buying or
selling, or borrowing or lending, with any In-
habitant of the County, - - . '

Letter from Ulster County, New- York, to a
Gentleman in the City of New- York. A
great revolution has taken place in this Coun-
ty. At a meeting yesterday those who have
hitherto opposed the Committees agreed to unite
in support of their measures, ...

Letter from Joel Clark to Governour Trumbull.
Recapitulates his former services, and now
makes a tender of them, ....

Letter from Thomas Howell to Governour
Trumbull. Thanks him for the appointment
he has received, but believing it will conduce
to the peace of the Town, (New- Haven,) re-

__ signs, and recommends Jonathan Fitch, -

Sheffield, Massachusetts, Committee, on 'an in-
vestigation of the charges against Job West-
over, resolve that he is an enemy of American
Liberty, and that it is the duty of all friends of
freedom to break off all dealings with him -

Letter from a Gentleman in Pittsfield, Massa-
chusetts, to an Officer of the Connecticut
Forces, at Cambridge. The Stockbridge In-
dians are willing to join the Colonies, and will
be of (Treat service if Gage marches out of
Boston. There are but twelve Soldiers at
Crown Point, and about two hundred at Ticon-
deroga; they are much alarmed with oar ex-
pedition, --....

Petition from Cohasset to the Committee of Safe!
ty, praying permission to raise a Company
for their defence, - . . . ,

Letter (ran the Committee of Lvnn to the Com-
mittee oi Safety, wnh Jonah Mania, char—d
with having acted as an enemy to the Province,

794

538

538
539

539

539

540

540

541

541

542

543

543

544

544

545

546

547

546

- 54?

■A7

10,

10,

347

832

548

- 556

549

798
549

V 10,Lettcrfrom London to a Gentleman in Philadel-
phia. It is believed here that notwithstanding
your seeming firmness and hostile prepara-
tion, you will submit to anything rather than
contend with us, - - - - -

10, Thanks of the Williamsburgh, Virginia, Volun-
teers to the Volunteers who offered their as-
sistance on the late alarm, - - - -

10, Letter from New- York to a Gentleman in Phila-
delphia, -------

10, Meeting of the Freeholders of Goshen Precinct,
in Orange County, New- York, appoint Dele-
gates to the Provincial Congress,

10, Address to the Publick, by the Ulster County,
New- York, Committee, correcting the mis-
representations of Mr. Jacobus Louw, -

10, Letter from the Committee of War for the expe-
dition against Ticonderoga and Crown Point,
to the Massachusetts Congress. Ticonderoga
was taken this morning, and the Committee
have given the command to Colonel Ethan
Allen. Arnold claims the command, but did
not enlist a man for the expedition,
Town Meeting at Providence, Rhode-Island.
Committee to examine into the state of the
Arms of the Town, - - - - -
Letter from the Provincial Congress of Massa-
chusetts to General Gage, remonstrating
against his violation of the Agreement with the
Selectmen of Boston. The People have com-
plied with it, and surrendered their Arms; and
though a number of days have elapsed, very
few have been permitted to leave the Town, -

10, Letter from General Thomas to the Committee
of Safety, --....

10, Letter from the Committee and Selectmen of
Bristol to the Massachusetts Congress. The
Town of Bristol has three Companies, of
sixty Men each, most of whom have Guns, but
they are out of Ammunition, and cannot pro-
cure a supply, ------ 549

10, Letter from Timothy Pickering, Jun., to the

Committee of Safety, ----- 550

10, Letter from Enoch Freeman to Samuel Freeman.

The threats of Colonel Thompson to take the
Canceaux, in the Harbour of Falmouth, has
thrown the Town in confusion; they can make
no defence against a Man-of-War, - - 550

1 1 , New- Kent County, Virginia, Committee, declare

the charges against the Inhabitants of Virginia,
in Lord Dunmore's Proclamation of the 3d
instant, is an unjust reflection upon them, and
has no foundation in truth, - - - - 551

1 1, Somerset County, New-Jersey, Committee, choose
Delegates to the Provincial Congress, and in-
struct them to agree in arming and supporting
the Militia, 551

1 1, Meeting of Committees of the several Towns
and Precincts in Ulster County, New- York.
Names of the Committees of the several
Towns. Deputies to the Provincial Congress
chosen, ------- 533

1 1, Letter from Ethan Allen to the Albany Commit-
tee, informing them that he has taken the
Fortress of Ticonderoga; and apprehensive
that Governour Carleton will make an effort
to retake it, asks for re-enforcements, - - G06

1 1, Recantation of P. Bailey, James McMaster and
Thomas Achincloss, of Portsmouth, in New-
Hampshire, ------ 552

1 1 , Letter from the Massachusetts Committee of Safe-
ty to General Thomas, - 552

11, Letter from Falmouth, Massachusetts, to a Gen-
tleman at Watertown. Account of the Pro-
ceedings at Falmouth, in consequence of the
capture of Captain Mowatt, of the Canceaux,
by Colonel Thompson, ... - 552

1 1, Letter from the Committee of Deer- Island to the
Massachusetts Congress. The Inhabitants are
out of Powder, Ball and Provisions, and re-
quest assistance, ..... 555

1 1, Letter from the Massachusetts Congress to the
New- York Committee. Two Men-of-War,
with Troops on board, sailed yesterday for
New- York ; it is supposed they have orders
to seize the Ammunition and Military Stores
in the Fort there. - 555

11, Letter from Ethan Allen to the Massachusetis

LIU

1775.

CONTENTS.

LIV

Congress. Ticonderoga taken yesterday morn-
ing by one hundred Green Mountain Boys,
and fifty Soldiers from Massachusetts; the lat-
ter were under the command of Col. Easton, -
May\ 1, Letter from Benedict Arnold to the Massachu-
setts Committee of Safety. Account of the
capture of Ticonderoga, and the state of affairs
there. Allen, who has assumed the command,
is a proper man to head his own wild People,
but entirely unacquainted with military ser-
vice ; and every thing is in confusion, -
Letter from Edward Mott, Chairman of the
Committee of War, to the Massachusetts Con-
gress. Account of planning the Expedition
against Ticonderoga, and of the capture of that
Fortress. The Committee have given the
command to Colonel Allen, to the exclusion of
Arnold, who claimed it after the surrender of
the Fort, ------

11,

CONNECTICUT ASSEMBLY.

556

- 557

- 557

MayW, Connecticut Assembly meets, ... 559

Members of the Council, ... - 559

Members of the House of Representatives, - 559

Acts extending the Boundaries of the Town of
Westmoreland, and making it one Regiment,- 56 1

Bills of Credit for fifty thousand Pounds au-
thorized, r - - - - - -561

Embargo laid in April continued to the first of
August, ------- 562

Quartermaster's and other Stores ordered for the
Troops, - - - - - - - 562

Act for encouraging the manufacturing of Fire-
Arms and Military Stores within the Colony,
for the safety and defence thereof, - - 563

Act for regulating and ordering the Troops that
are or may be raised for the defence of this
Colony, ------- 564

Articles, Rules and Regulations for the govern-
ment of the Troops in the service of the
Colony, ------- 565

Payment authorized for the Ammunition fur-
nished the Inhabitants of the Colony, who
marched either Eastward or Westward in the
late alarm, ------ 570

Committee to take care of, and provide for the
Officers and Soldiers taken prisoners at Crown
Point, - - - - - - - 570

Forms of Commissions for Field and Staff-Offi-
cers adopted, - - - - - -571

Committee to provide such store of Lead as may
be necessary for the use of the Colony, - 573

Committee to employ News Carriers at the pub-
lick expense, ' - - - - - - 573

Committee of War appointed, ... 373

Five hundred pounds of Powder to be sent to
Crown Point and Ticonderoga, to Colonel
Easton, ------- 574

Officers appointed, ----- 574

Officers of the Company of Northbury, in Wa-
terbury, cashiered, for being totally disaffected
to the general cause of American Liberty, - 575

Committee on a Petition from New-London,
recommending the encouragement of certain
Manufactures, ------ 575

Report of Committee on what Intelligence, Pa-
pers and Documents are necessary to be com-
municated to the Continental Congress, - - 576

CORRESPONDENCE, PROCEEDINGS, ETC.

Ma# 12, Letter from London to a Gentleman in Philadel-
phia. Mr. Burke is to present the Remon-
strance of the New- York Assembly on Mon-
day next; the Ministry are determined it shall
not be received, ----- 577

12, Richmond County, Virginia, Committee. Re-
solutions of the Committee, vindicating their
Constituents from the atrocious aspersions in
Lord Dunmore's Proclamation of the third
instant, ----... 578

12, Proclamation by Lord Dunmore, appointing the
first Thursday in next month for the meeting
of the General Assembly, - - - . 578

12, Joseph Galloway's Address to the Publick. De-
nying the charge that he had wrote Letters to
the Ministry inimical to America, - - 579

1775.

ilfayl2,Committee of Correspondence for Bergen Coun-
ty, in New-Jersey, appointed, ... 579

12, Delegates to the Provincial Congress of New-
York chosen by the Committees in Charlotte
County, 833

12, Freeholders and Inhabitants of Ha verstraw Pre-
cinct, in Orange County, New- York, choose
Delegates to the Provincial Congress, - - 834

12, Letter from the Albany Committee to the New-
York Committee, enclosing a copy of a Let-
ter from Ethan Allen, dated Ticonderoga, May
1 1, giving an account of the capture of that
Fortress, ------- 605

12, Letter from S. Osgood to the Massachusetts Com-
mittee of Safety. Notwithstanding the agree-
ment with General Gage, the People of Bos-
ton, though they complied with it on their part,
are not permitted to leave Boston, - - 579

12, Petition from the Inhabitants of the Eastern parts
of Massachusetts to the Provincial Congress,
praying for assistance in Powder, Balls and
Flints, that they may have wherewithal to
defend themselves, ----- 580

12, Letter from the Selectmen of Amesbury to the

Massachusetts Committee of Safety, - - 580

12, Letter from the Committee of Supplies to the

Massachusetts Congress, - - - - 581

12, Letter from General Thomas to the Committee of

Safety, 581

13, Letter from James Cavet to Arthur St. Clair.

The situation of the well-affected Inhabitants
of Pittsburgh is almost intolerable ; if not as-
sisted they will be ruined, --- - 581

13, Letter from the Committee for Mamicoting to the
New- York Congress. The Inhabitants have
all signed the Association, and are determined
to stand by it ; they have chosen Militia Offi-
cers, and request the appointments may be
confirmed by the Congress, ... 834

13, Letter from Dr. Wheelock to Govemour Trum-
bull, ... --- 582

1 3, Letter from Thomas Fraser, in London, to George

Erving, of Boston, ----- 583

13, Letter from Timothy Ladd to the New- Hamp-

shire Congress, offering his services for the
defence of the liberties of America, - - 584

14, Letter from Benedict Arnold to the Massachusetts
• CommitteeofSafety. Crown Point, with eleven

Prisoners, and a number of Cannon, taken.
Major Skene made prisoner. Mr. Allen's
party is decreasing, and the dispute subsiding, 584

14, Letter from Jedediah Preble to the Massachusetts

Congress. Proceedings of Colonel Thomp-
son, at Falmouth ; his capture and detention of
Captain Mowatt, who is released on his promise
to return on shore the next morning : he does
not return, and his securities are arrested, - 585

15, Letter from the Committee of Correspondence

for Falmouth, in Massachusetts, to the Com-
mittee of Safety. Dangerous consequences
anticipated from the conduct of Col. Thomp-
son, ------- 586

Resolution of the Provincial Congress disap-
proving of the conduct of Col. Thompson, - 587

15, Address of the Council to the People of Virgi-
nia. A redress of Grievances is more likely
to be obtained by gentle methods than by in-
temperate behaviour. An Assembly will soon
meet, when the People may represent their
Grievances in the manner prescribed by the
Constitution, - 587

15, Chester County, Pennsylvania, Committee. The
British Parliament having in an Address to
His Majesty declared the People of Massa-
chusetts-Bay to be in a state of open Rebellion,
encouraged by several other Colonies, it is the
duty of the Freemen of this County to asso-
ciate and provide themselves with Arms and
Ammunition, to defend their lives and liber-
ties, 588

NEW-JERSEY ASSEMBLY.

May\ 5, Assembly of New-Jersey meets, - - - 589
List of Representatives, - 589

Letters from the Agents in England, and the
Speaker of the House of Representatives of
New- York, laid before the House, - - 589

LV

1TT5

J»fayi6,Govcniour's Speech to ihe Council and House
of Assembly, - - - - ,"—"

Address to the King from the Lords and Com-
mons of Great Britain, of the 7th of Febru-
ary, 1775, and a copy of Lord North's Reso-
lution laid before the House, -

Letter from Governour Franklin to the Earl of
1 hirtmouth, dated February 1, 1775, laid before
the House, -

Governour's Speech and Papers referred to a
Committee of the Whole House, and consi-
dered, - - - - - "

Address to the Governour in answer to his Speech
ordered, and Committee appointed to prepare
it, . . - - - - - -

Message to the Governour, requesting him to in-
form the House, whether the Letter to the
Earl of Dartmouth, presented to the House on
the 16th, is authentick or not, -

Address in answer to the Governour's Speech,
considered in Committee of the Whole, re-
ported, amended, and agreed to, -

The Speaker with the House wait upon the
Governour in the Council Chamber with the
Address, -------

The Speaker declares his dissent to the Address,

Address of the House to the Governour, -

Governour's Answer, -

The House cannot comply with and adopt the
Resolution of the House of Commons of Feb-
ruary 27th, but recommend to their Delegates
to lay it before the Continental Congress,

Message from the Governour to the Assembly in
reply to their Address on the subject of his
Letter to the Earl of Dartmouth, dated Febru-
ary 1, 1775,

Committee appointed to consider the Message, and
make report to the next sitting of the Assembly,

Assembly prorogued to the 20th of June next, -

CONTENTS.

LVI

17,

18,

19,

20.

590

595

- 595

596

596

597

598

599
599
599
601

602

602

604
604

CORRESPONDENCE, PROCEEDINGS, ETC.

3fay 15,New- York Committee, .... 603

Address from the Captains of six Companies, of-
fering their services to co-operate in carrying
into effect the Continental Association, - - 604
Copies of the General Association of New- York,
left in the several Wards of the City for signa-
ture; all persons recommended to sign it as
speedily as possible, ... 605

15, Letter from New- York Committee to the Conti-
nental Congress, enclosing copies of Letters,
with authentick intelligence of the capture of
Ticonderoga, ...... 605

15, Newburgh, New- York, Committee. A num-
ber of persons having neglected or refused to
sign the Association, they are requested to do
so ; such as do not sign it on or before the 29th
instant, to be considered enemies to the Coun-
try, and no person shall have any dealings
with them, 606

15, Inhabitants of Cornwall Precinct, in Orange
County, New- York, choose Deputies to the
Provincial Congress, ..... 834

15, Providence, Rhode-Island, Town Meeting. Com-
mittees authorized to purchase Arms for all
able-bodied Men not able to purchase them-
selves ; and the Town stock of Powder and
Lead to be made up into Cartridges, - - 607

10, Letter from Newport, Rhode-Island. Two
Sloops at Bedford taken by Capt. Lindsay, of
the Falcon, sloop-of-war, retaken by the Peo-
ple of Bedford ; one of the enemy was killed,
two were wounded, and thirteen made prisoners, 608

1 5, Sloop at Dartmouth seized by Captain Linsday, of

the Falcon, retaken with the prize crew, - 608

15, Recantation of the Rev. Samuel Dana, of Gro-

ton, Massachusetts, ..... 608

15, Letter from General Gage to the Earl of Dart-
mouth, ---.... 609

15, Petition from several Towns in Suffolk County,
Massachusetts, to the Committee of Safety, re-
questing the appointment of Colonel Lemuel
Robinson, of Dorchester, .... 609

1 5, Petition of John Boice and Hugh McLean to the
Manaehui I questing thai certain

enlisted Soldiers, who are Paper .Makers, may
be discharged, ...... 609

15,

15,

15.

15,

15,

16,

610

- 610

. 610

611

16.

16,
16,

1775.

,V(///15,Letter from a Committee at Berwick, to the Com-
mittee of Safety, objecting to the appointment
of one Alexander Scammell, who lives in New-
Hampshire,

Letter from Jedediah Preble to the Committee of
Safety, objecting to the raising of two Regi-
ments in the County of Cumberland, -
Letter from the Massachusetts Congress to the

Eastern Indians, - - - "

Portsmouth, New-Hampshire, Town Meeting.
The Committee of the Town empowered to
inquire touching any obnoxious persons who
may flee to this Town, and none but the Com-
mittee shall have any concern with such Re-
fugees, ------

Letter from the Committee and Selectmen of
Marlow, New-Hampshire, to the Provincial
Committee. They are not able to support a
Delegate to the Provincial Congress, but with
their lives and interests will assist in defence

of the Colonies, 612

Letter from the Town of Alstcad, in New-Hamp-
shire, to the Delegates of the Province, now
sitting at Exeter. Cannot support a Delegate
to the Congress, but will abide by all its deci-
sions, - - - - - - -612

Meeting of the Inhabitants of Augusta County,
Virginia, on the West side of Laurel Hill, at
Pittsburgh ; appoint a Committee for the Dis-
trict. The Committee resolve to support all
the American measures ; make provision for
embodying the Militia, procuring Arms and
Ammunition, and for cultivating a friendship
with the Indians, - - - - - 613

Instructions to John Harvie and George Roote,
Delegates from the People West of Laurel
Hill, to the Virginia Convention, - - 614

Letter from Dr. Franklin to Dr. Priestley, - 615
Meeting of the Inhabitants of the County of
Westmoreland, in Pennsylvania. It is the in-
dispensable duty of every American, by every
means which God has put in his power, to resist
and oppose the system of tyranny and oppres-
sion attempted to be exercised by the Parlia-
ment and Ministry of Great Britain, - - 615
Association of the Inhabitants of Westmoreland
County, in Pennsylvania, - - - - 615

Meeting of the Council of Pennsylvania. Eight
Indians, who arrived in Philadelphia on the
14th, brought before the Council, - - 616

Speech of one of the Indians to the Governour, 616
The Indians sent for, and the Governour began
delivering a Speech in reply to them, but
having a bad translator, it was postponed to the

20th instant, 617

Speech of the Governour in reply to that of the

Indians, .-.-.-- 617
The Indians receive three hundred Dollars, and
signed a receipt for it on the back of the Deed
executed at Fort Stan wix, in 1768, - - 617
New- York Committee. The Ward Companies
of Militia recommended to enrol their Men in
the different Beats, to be in readiness to take
their tour of duty as a Military Night Watch, 618
Letter from the Delegates from New- York in
the Continental Congress, to the New- York
Committee, enclosing a Resolution of the Con-
gress of the 15th, recommending to the Inha-
bitants, in the event of the arrival of any
Troops, to act on the defensive, so long as may
be consistent with their safety and security, - 618
16, Dutchess County, New- York, Committee, cer-
tify the election of Deputies to the Provincial
Congress, .--... 834

16, Letter from the Committee of Correspondence
for Connecticut to the Massachusetts Congress.
The expedition against Ticonderoga was set on
foot by some private persons in Connecticut,
and carried into effect without the aid of those
afterwards sent from Massachusetts; but as it
was done for the common cause, they will not
contend for the precedency, - - -618

16, Letter from Joseph Warren to Arthur Lee, . 619
16, Letter from the Provincial Congress of Massa-
chusetts to the Continental Congress, repre-
senting the dangerous situation of affairs there
without a regular Government, and asking
their advice about taking up uud exercising

16,

16,

18,

20,

16,

16,

LVI1

1775.

CONTENTS.

LVIII

17,

17,

17,

17,

17,

17,

17,

17,

17,

17,

17,

17.

17.

17,

18,
18,

18,

622

668

the powers of Government : they also request
the Congress to take the general direction of

the Army, 620

May 16, Letter from Henry Young Brown to the Massa-
chusetts Congress. Communicates his suspi-
cions that the Indians are about to take sides
with Canada. There are but ten Guns, twenty
pounds of Powder, and half a hundred of
Lead, in the Town of Brownfield. Applies to
the Congress for assistance, ...

Middlesex County, Virginia, Committee. Tho-
mas Haddin, having reviled the Continental
Association, and refused to sign it, is held forth
to the publick as an enemy to American Li-
berty, .......

Cumberland County, Virginia, Committee, ap-
prove of the Resolution of Maryland to stop
Exportations to Quebeck, &c, and in conse-
quence of the alarming situation of American
affairs, especially in the Province of New-
York, recommend a Colony Convention be
immediately called, 622

Address of Cumberland County to the Inhabi-
tants of the lower parts of Virginia, offering
protection and support to their Wives and
Children, in case of an invasion of the Colo-
ny by sea, 622

Cecil County, Maryland, Committee. Charles
Gordon having maliciously aspersed the Con-
tinental Congress and the Provincial Conven-
tion, is declared an enemy to the Country, and
as such none are to have dealings or commu-
nications with him, ..... 622

John Brown arrived at Philadelphia from Ticon-
deroga, an Express to the General Congress,
with an account of the capture of Ticonderoga
and Crown Point, and of an attempt made by
the British to find a passage for an Army from
Canada to Boston, 623

Colonel Easton at the Provincial Congress in
Watertown, with an account of the Capture of
Ticonderoga and Crown Point, - - - 624

Philadelphia Committee direct the republication
of the Resolve prohibiting the killing of any
Sheep under four years old, ... 625

Votes in First, Second, Third, and Fourth Com-
panies of Brookhaven, with the Poll Lists, for
the choice of a Deputy to the Provincial Con-
gress of New-York, 835

Account of the commencement of Hostilities be-
tween Great Britain and America, in the Pro-
vince of Massachusetts- Bay, by the Reverend
Mr. William Gordon, of Roxbury, in a Letter
to a Gentleman in England, ... 625

Letter from the Congress of Massachusetts to the
Assembly of Connecticut, suggesting the pro-
priety of having the Cannon at Ticonderoga
and Crown Point removed immediately to the
Camp at Cambridge, and the appointing of
Colonel Arnold to take charge of them down,
with all possible haste, to prevent disputes be-
tween him and other officers, ... g08

Committees of Correspondence for the several
Towns and Districts of Worcester County, in
Massachusetts, requested to meet at the Court-
House on Wednesday next, May 24th, - - 700

Letters of Governour Hutchinson, lately disco-
vered, show what a slave he has been to the
Ministry. Copy of one from him to General
Gage, enclosing one from Bernard, in 1771, - 632

Letter from the Committee of Northborough to
General Ward, charging Ebenezer Cutler, late
of Groton, as an enemy to his country, - - 632

Letter from the Portsmouth, New- Hampshire,
Committee, to the Provincial Congress. Re-
quest to know if a Vessel may load with Masts, 632

Declaration by the Grand Jury of Newcastle,
Delaware, ...... 633

Letter from Arthur St. Clair to Joseph Shippen,
Jun., enclosing Letter of James Cavet, dated
May 18th. Yesterday a County Meeting, in
Westmoreland, passed Resolutions to arm and
discipline the Militia, and formed an Associa-
tion, 633

General Committee of Association for Newark,
in New-Jersey, stop all Exportations to Glue-
beck, Nova-Scotia, Georgia, and Newfound-
land, 634

18,

It

18,

U

18,

U

It

18.

18,

1775.

May 18, Instructions to the Deputies elected to represent
the Town of Newark, in Essex County, in the
Provincial Congress of New-Jersey, - - 634

New- York Committee. Committee appointed to
institute a Military Night Watch, - - 636

Letter from the New- York Committee to the
Governour of Connecticut; thank him for the
kindness of Connecticut in sending Troops to
their assistance, but request he may direct their
encampment on the Western frontiers of Con-
necticut, -..-... 636

Directions for a Military Night Watch in the
City of New- York, 636

Letter from the Committee of Palatine District,
Tryon County, New- York, to the Albany
Committee, ...... 637

Letter from Colonel Guy Johnson to the Com-
mittee of Schenectady, New- York, - - 638

Authentick Account of the taking of the Fortres-
ses at Ticonderoga and Crown Point, by a par- *
ty of Connecticut Forces, .... 638

Letter from Ethan Allen to James Morrison and
the Merchants that are friendly to the cause of
Liberty in Montreal, soliciting their immediate
assistance, in Provisions, Ammunition, and
Spirituous Liquors, not as a donation, for he is
ready to pay for them, .... 639

Letter from the Camp at Cambridge. Informa-
tion from Halifax, that the People destroyed a
quantity of Hay, purchased and ready to be
shipped for the Dragoons at Boston, - - 639

Letter from Colonel John Stark to the Provincial
Congress of New-Hampshire, - - - 639

Address of the New-Hampshire Congress to
Governour Wentworth. The British Troops
being sent to America to enforce Acts of Par-
liament by fire, sword, and famine, request to
know from him the truth of a statement that
he has made application for two Regiments, to
be stationed at Portsmouth, ... 640

Caroline County, Virginia, Committee. Reso-
lutions on Lord Dunmore's Letter to the Earl
of Dartmouth, dated December 24, 1 774 ; his
Proclamation of the 3d of May last ; and on
Captain Montague's Letter to Thomas Nelson,
threatening to burn the Town of York, - 640

Address to the Inhabitants of Virginia, on the
conduct of Lord Dunmore, and in defence of
Patrick Henry, - - . . - 641

Address to the Inhabitants of the Manor of Cort-
landt, in New- York, on the efforts of the To-
ries to obtain the ascendancy in the Manor, and
their attempt to commit the People to '' The
Loyalist's Test" last winter, ... 644

Letter from the Massachusetts Committee of Safe-
ty to the Committee of Supplies, - . 645

Letter from Benedict Arnold to the Massachu-
setts Committee of Safety. Surprised and took
St. John's, with the King's Sloop of seventy
tons, on the 18th instant. Allen is about to
keep possession of St. John's, with eighty or a
hundred men; this is a wild, impracticable
scheme, if it could be carried into execution. A
thousand or fifteen hundred men will be neces-
sary to repair and keep Ticonderoga this sum-
mer, 645

List of Cannon taken at Crown Point, - - 646

List of Cannon taken at Ticonderoga, - - 646

Rtturn of Ordnance Stores found at Ticonderoga, 646

Letter from General Ward to the Massachusetts
Congress, urging the immediate settlement of
the Regiments, " if we would save our Coun-
try," ' 647

Letter from James Russell to Joseph Warren,

President of the Provincial Congress, - . 647

Letter from Abijah Brown to the Massachusetts
Committee of Safety. He has removed the
Cannon from Waltham to Watertown, and is
ready to march to Cambridge, ... 647

Petition of Benjamin Thompson, of Concord, in
New-Hampshire, to the Commi tee of Safety.
Requests a thorough examination into the
charges against him, of being inimical to the
liberties of this Country, .... 647

New-Hampshire Committee of Safety. Orders
to Winborn Adams, and nine others, each to
enlist one Company of sixty-two able-bodied
Men: form of enlistment, .... 64g

19,

19,

19.

19,

19,

19,

19,
19,

19,

19,

647
G49

G50

G50
650
650
651

- 651

651

651
- 651

L1X

17".'>.

NEW-HAJIPSHIRE PROVIM 1AL CONVENTION.

jtfaylT.PTOWDeid Convention o! New-Hampshire,

ii oi Members,

bew Thornton chosen President, and Ebene
/rr Thompson Secretory, - - -
Committee to draw up Rules to be observed in
the Convention, ------

Committee to report on establishing a Post-Office,
18 Rules for tie- government of the Convention,
Pogt-OnV<- at Portsmouth established.
Colonel John Hale authorized to proceed to Al-
bany, or any other place he thinks proper, to
procure Fire-Arms awl Guupaffdai for the
use of the Province, -".■""
Committee to prepare nnd bring in a plan of

ways and means for furnishing Troops,
Committee to prepare an Address to be sent to the
ral Towns in the Province, respecting
disputes about Tories, - - - -

19, Petition from Major Andrew McClary, praying

redress of sundry grievances, read,

Letter from Colonel John Stark, requesting a
supply of Fire- Arms, read, ... 651

Recommendations to the Inhabitants to support
good and wholesome Laws ; to encourage all
Religious worship ; to encourage the Woollen
and Linen Manufactory, and the making of
Saltpetre, - -651

Committees of the several Towns requested to
have a watchful eye over all persons who
have used opprobrious expressions respecting
the several Congresses, - - - - 652

Committee from the Massachusetts Congress, in-
troduced into the Convention, ... 652

Selectmen of several Towns requested to furnish
the Arms wanted by Colonel Stark, - - 652

20, Resolutions authorizing the raising and equip-

ment of two thousand Men to serve until the
last day of December, unless the Committee of
Safety may judge it necessary to discharge
them sooner, ------ 652

Thanks to the persons who took a quantity of
Gunpowder from the Castle called William
and Mary, in this Province, ... 653

Committee of Safety appointed, ... 653
Committee of Supplies appointed, - - - 653
Committee to sell Gunpowder to the frontier
Towns, ------- 653

22, Muster-Masters appointed, ... - 653
Colonel Fenton required to appear before the

Convention, concerning his Letter to the People

of the County of Grafton, - 654

23, Colonel Nathaniel Folsom appointed to take the

general command of the Troops raised, or to
be raised, in this Government, - 654

Post-Office established at Exeter, ... 654
Nicholas Oilman appointed Treasurer and Re-
ceiver-General of the Colony, ... 654
All Officers and Soldiers in the service to be
taxed as other persons are, - 654

24, The several Towns are recommended to encour-

age Manufactures in general, and that of Fire-
Arms in particular, ----- 654
26, Instructions to the Committee of Safety, - - 655

A Company of not exceeding sixty Men, to be
enlisted in the Northwesterly parts of the
Colony, to act as occasion may require, - 655

Powers conferred on the Committee of Supplies, 655

31, Thanks to the persons who removed sundry

Cannon from the sea-coast to Portsmouth, and

to Doctor Hall Jackson for assisting in the

matter, and bringing the intelligence, - - 656

June 1, Committee of Supplies authorized to import

Military Stores from any place whatever, - 656

Committee of Portsmouth requested to take mea-
sures to prevent the passage of the British
Ships-of-War up to the Town, ... 656

2, An Address to the Inhabitants of the Colony,

agreed to, - - - - "- 657

3, Addresses to the Congress of New- York to the

Congress of Massachusetts, to the Colony of
Connecticut, to the Continmtal Congress, and
to John Sullivan and John Langdon, Dele-
gates, adopted by the Convention, - - 657
5, Oath to be taken by all the ( fficen and Soldiers
of the New-Hampshire Army, now raising
for the defence and security of the Rights and
Labertiss of the American Colonies, - - 60S

CONTENTS.

1775.

Ju.ncT, Obligation of secrecy as to the Proceedings of
the Convention, - - - - - -

Col. Hale retained without Powder or Small-
Arms, but gives great encouragement they
can soon be had from the Southern Colonies, -

Receiver-General authorized to give his notes
of hand for ten thousand and fifty Pounds, -

Bills of Credit of Massachusetts, to have a free
currency in New-Hampshire, - - -

Lenity and forbearance in Creditors towards
Debtors recommended, - -

Convention adjourned to the 27th instant, -

B.

9,
10,

I>X

653

65S
659
660

660

660

659
660
661
836

837

CORRESPONDENCE, PROCEEDINGS, ETC.

itf<zy20,Committee of Anne Arundel County, Maryland.
The application of Mr. Weems, for permission
to purchase an Anchor and Cable of Captain
Carcaud, of the Ship Industry, rejected. No
person can purchase or receive them cpnsis-
tent with the Continental Association, -

20, Field-Officers chosen for Newcastle County,
Delaware, ------

20, Letter from the New- Jersey Assembly to their
Delegates in the Continental Congress, -

20, Petition of James Rivington to the Continental
Congress, -------

20, Town Meeting in Brooklyn, King's County,
New- York. Their reasons for uniting with
the other Counties of the Colony in support of
their rights ; choose Deputies to the Provin-
cial Congress, and pledge themselves to abide
by the directions of the Congress,

20, Letter from Col. Guy Johnson to the Magistrates
and others of Palatine, Canajoharie, and the
upper Districts in Tryon County, New- York;
has had repeated accounts that a body of New-
Englanders were to come to seize him. If
the Indians find their Superintendent disturbed
they will take dreadful revenge, - - -
Letter from Colonel Guy Johnson to the Magis-
trates and Committee of Schenectady, and
Mayor of Albany, - - - - -

20, Act of the Rhode- Island Assembly, prohibiting
the Oath of Office being administered to Go-
vernour Wanton, . - - - -

20, Letter from the Committee of Safety of Massa-
chusetts to General Preble, at Falmouth,

20, Letter to the Massachusetts Congress, from the
Committee appointed to confer with the Con-
gress of New-Hampshire, - - - -

20, Resolutions of the New-Hampshire Congress for
raising and equipping two thousand Men,

20, Letter from the Rev. William Gordon to Joseph

Warren. If the Committee will send him
Hutchinson's loose Letters, he will examine
them, and mark whatever appears to be im-
portant to the Publick, - - - -
Letter to the Oneidas from the Mohawks; writ-
ten at Guy Johnson's, - - - -
21, Resolutions of the Committee of Tryon Coun-
ty, New- York, on the Letter of Colonel Guy
Johnson, of May 20, and on the Letter from
the Mohawks to the Oneidas, ...

21, Letter from the Committee of Palatine District,

Tryon County, to the Albany Committee. —
The communication with Albany is entirely
stopped by Colonel Johnson, who has five hun-
dred men to guard his house, which he has
fortified. There is not fifty pounds of Pow-
der in the District ; they have an open enemy
before them, and treacherous friends at their
backs, -------

21, Letter from Boston to a Gentleman in Philadel-
phia. General Gage has broken his engage-
ment with the People of Boston, after they had
delivered up their Arms, - - - -

21, Letter from General Ward to the Massachusetts
Congress, - - " -

21, Letter from James Sullivan to the Massachusetts
Congress, ------

21, Letter from the Committee of Safety to the Pro-

vincial Congress of Massachusetts,

22, Letter from the Norfolk, Virginia, Committee,

to the Committee for Prince George County,
with an examination of Captain Charles
Alexander, ------ 503

22, Prince William County, Virginia, Committee.

661

661

662
663

664
664

664
664

665

665

666
666
667

667

LXt

1775.

CONTENTS.

LXII

22,

22,

22

22,

22,

22,
22,
22,

23,

22,

22,

22,
22,

22,
22,

Condemn the conduct of Lord Dunmore in
regard to the Powder. Justify Patrick Henry
in demanding satisfaction for it; as, in their
opinion, the violent proceedings of the Troops
in Massachusetts would have justified reprisals
of a much greater magnitude, -

, Buckingham County, Virginia, Committee. Offer
to receive the AVives, Children and Slaves of
such of the Inhabitants of the lower Counties
as may be driven from their habitations ; and
will give them Lands to cultivate, and let their
Cattle feed with their own, ...

Meeting of Inhabitants of Charles County, in
Maryland. Appoint Deputies to the General
Convention of the Province, -

Letter from a Gentleman in Philadelphia to his
Friend in Williamsburgh, Virginia. There
has been a complete revolution in New-York.
The Province is arming; the Governour dare
not call his Assembly to receive Lord North's
Plan ; the Tory leaders have been obliged
to fly, - - - - -
Letter to the New-Hampshire Committee of
Safety, from their Delegates in the Continen-
tal Congress. The Congress have ordered
the Forts of Ticonderoga and Crown Point
to be demolished, and the warlike Stores to be
removed to the south end of Lake George. —
All the Colonies in Congress are firmly united,
and preparing for the worst, ...

New- York Committee. Motion by Mr. Mc-
Dougall for a Committee to confer with the
Deputies of the County of Albany, now in
New- York, whether Albany can furnish Men
to garrison Ticonderoga ; rejected on motion
of Mr. De Lancey, -----

Letter from the New- York Committee to Gov-
ernour Trumbull, enclosing a copy of the Re-
solution of Congress for removing the Military
Stores from Ticonderoga and Crown Point to
the south end of Lake George, - - -

Deputies for Queen's County to the New- York
Provincial Congress chosen by the Freeholders,

Delegates to the Provincial Congress chosen in
King's County, New- York, - . -

Letter from the Corporation of Albany to Colonel
Guy Johnson. If he studies the welfare of
his Country he need not be apprehensive of
any injury to his person or property. There
has been no intention of taking him captive,
or offering him any indignity; these reports
are only propagated to rouse the Indians to
take up arms against the Americans,

Letter from the Albany Committee to Colonel
Guy Johnson, ------

Letter from Benedict Arnold, Commander at Ti-
conderoga, to the Albany Committee. On
the 13th captured the Garrison at St. John's,
and took a King's Sloop of seventy tons; on
his return he met one Colonel Allen, with a
party for St. John's, who were attacked and
defeated by the Regulars. Requests Seamen
and Powder may be sent him, - - -

Narrative of the Excursions and Ravages of the
King's Troops, under the command of Gen-
eral Gage, on the 19th of April, 1775, together
with the Depositions taken by order of Con-
gress to support the truth of it, -

Ravages of the King's Troops, - - .

Damages sustained in Lexington, - . -

Damages sustained in Concord, -

Letter from Samuel Bullard to the Massachusetts
Congress, .....

Letter from the Committee of Supplies to the
Provincial Congress of Massachusetts, com-
plaining of ungenerous treatment from Gen.
Ward, -------

Letter from the Massachusetts Committee of Safe-
ty to the Provincial Congress, with the Letter
from Captain Benedict Arnold, of May 11,
requesting the Congress to take such mea-
sures as they deem necessary, -

Letter from the Massachusetts Congress to Bene-
dict Arnold. As the affairs of the Expedition
began in Connecticut, that Colony has been
written to, to take the whole under their direc-
tion until the advice of the Continental Con-
gress can be had, -

667

667
668

668

670

671

671

838
838

671

672

839

673
675
675
675

- 675

676

- 676

676

C77
677

1775.

M«y23, Letter from the Earl of Dartmouth to Govern-
our Tryon. The King received the Petition
of the New- York Assembly with the most
gracious expressions of regard. The Memo-
rial to the Lords, and Representation to the
Commons contained claims which made it im-
possible for Parliament, consistent with its dig-
nity, to receive them, -
The Crisis, No. 8. On American affairs.

23, Letter from William Hooper, at Philadelphia, to
Samuel Johnston, in North-Carolina. The
strict secrecy which Congress enjoins upon its
Members prevents his communicating any in-
formation of their Proceedings. The most per-
fect harmony subsists among its Members. —
The character of New- York is no longer sus-
picious; they take an active share in the oppo-
sition. Government has sent them the Asia,
Man-of-War, to give spirit to the Tories. —
North-Carolina will probably be called on for
Money, and a Provincial Convention should
be immediately called, .... 680

23, Address of Williamsburgh Volunteers to Peyton

Randolph, 680

Mr. Randolph's Answer, - - - 680

23, Westmoreland County, Virginia, Committee. —
Resolutions on Lord Dunmore's Speech in
Council, on the 2d of May, and his Proclama-
tion of the 3d of May, - - - - 681
- 23, Talbot County, Maryland, Committee of Obser-
vation. Proceedings in relation to the Ship
Johnston, belonging to Mr. Gildart, of Liver-
pool, loaded with Salt and Dry Goods, and
bound to the Chesapeake Bay, - - - 682

23, Letter from Robert Hanna, James Cavet and
Thomas Scott, at Pittsburgh, to Governour
Penn, complaining of their treatment from the
authorities of Virginia, .... 683

23, Letter from /Eneas Mackay and others, at Pitts-
burgh, to Governour Penn. They are treated
by the Officers under Virginia like degraded
beings, not entitled to the common rights of
mankind ; the very name of a Pennsylvanian
is sufficient to render a man odious there, - 684

23, Letter from a Committee of the Assembly of
Connecticut to the Speaker. The New- York
Committee will supply Provisions to the Con-
necticut Forces at Ticonderoga. St. Luke La
Come has sent Belts to all the Northern Tribes
of Indians, to engage them to take up Arms
against the New-England Colonies. It is
supposed the Plebeians of the Canadas will
not willingly engage against the Colonists, but
the Nobles are their bitter enemies, - - 685

23, Letter from the Albany Committee to the Com-
mittee of Palatine District, in Tryon County, 84 1
Speech of the Mohawks to the Magistrates and
Committee of Schenectady, and the Mayor
and Committee of Albany, delivered by Little
Abraham, May 20, - ' - - - - 841
Answer to Little Abraham's Speech, by the Ma-
gistrates and Committee of Albany and Sche-
nectady, May 20, - - - - . - 842
Reply of the Mohawks to the Answer of the
Magistrates, &c, of Albany and Schenectady, 842

23, Letter from Benedict Arnold to the General As-
sembly of Connecticut. Defeat of Colonel
Allen at St. John's; there are four hundred
Regulars there, making preparation to cross
the Lake, with the design of retaking Crown
Point and Ticonderoga, .... 840

23, Letter from Benedict Arnold, Commander-in-
Chief at Crown Point, to Captain Noah Lee,
at Ticonderoga. Preparations of the Regulars
and Indians for retaking Ticonderoga and
Crown Point; requests every man within fifty
miles of Skenesborough may be sent to Ticon-
deroga with Powder and Provisions, -

23, Letter from Ticonderoga to a Gentleman in
Hartford, Connecticut, giving a Journal of
Military operations from the 1 1th to the 19th
of May, -------

841

685

NEW-JERSEY PROVINCIAL CONGRESS.

May23, New-Jersey Provincial Congress meets, - 685

List of Deputies who attended, ... 685
24, Hendrick Fisher elected President, Jonathan D.

I.XIII

1773.

CONTENTS.

LXIV

25,

26,

iry, and William Paterson ami
li rick Freungnuyaeo his Assistants,
MaylX. Ministers of the Gospel in Trenton requested to
their daily attendance during the session,
to open tin- House with Prayer, -

Allegiance to the King of Great Britain, in the
rightful exercise of his authority, acknow-
ledged, ------

Appointment of Delegates to the Continental
Congress, hy the Assembly, confirmed, -

Associators of Shrewsbury, in Monmouth Coun-
ty, advised to choose Committee of Observation,

Letter to the Continental Congress. They do
not think it advisable to enter into measures of
consequence, until some, general plan is agreed
on by the Continental Congress ; and arc will-
ing "to adopt and carry out any plan which
they may devise and recommend,

Adopt the Non-Exportation Resolution of the
Continental Congress, . - - -

Letter to the Provincial Congress of New- York.
Inform the New- York Congress of their ap-
plication to the Continental Congress for an
uniform plan of operations, and that a general
system of correspondence between the Colo-
nies should be adopted, - - -

Pierpont Edwards, one of a Committee from
Connecticut, attended with certain propositions
and instructions, which were received, read, and
referred for further consideration,

The Committee sent to the Continental Congress,
with the Letter of the 25th instant, returned
with a written Answer, . - - -

Letter received from New- York Congress, pro-
fessing their readiness to establish a free cor-
respondence, ------

Petition from Robert Murray and John Murray,
professing their sincere contrition for violating
the Continental Association; they are restored
to all the privileges they heretofore enjoyed in
the Province, ------

Association adopted, and ordered to be sent to the
several Counties, . . - - -
June 1, Letter to Pierpont Edwards, in answer to his ap-
plication on the part of Connecticut,
3, Regulations for the government of the Militia of
the Colony, ------

Ordinance for raising a sum of Money for the
use of the Province, ----- 692

29,

30.

31,

687

687

687

688

688

688
689

- 689

- 689

- 689

689

689

- 690

- 690

- 691

1775.

24,
24.

CORRESPONDENCE, PROCEEDINGS, ETC.

May2Z, Letter from Benedict Arnold to the Massachu-
setts Committee of Safety. Has neither Pro-
visions nor Ammunition. Four hundred Re-
gulars are at St. John's, and it is expected they
will make em effort to retake Crown Point and
Ticonderoga, ------ 693

23, Letter from Committee of Safety to the Massa-
chusetts Congress, ----- 694

23, Petition from John Merril to the Massachusetts
Congress, for Powder for the Town of Top-
sham, which is in great danger of an attack
from the Indians, ----- 695

23, Letter from the Selectmen of the Town of Wal-

thnm to Massachusetts Committee of Safety, - 695

23, Committee of Inspection for the Town of Tewks-
bury declare Mr. Timothy Brown ought not
to be treated as an enemy, but as a friend to li-
berty, 695

23, Letter from the New-Hampshire Congress to

their Delegates in the Continental Congress, 695

23, Letter from the Provincial Congress of New-
Hampshire to the Continental Congress. In-
form the Congress of what has been done in
the Colony, and ask advice as to their further
proceeding. They ardently wish a connection
may yet be preserved between Great Britain
and the Colonies, but many conclude that the
voice of God and Nature, since the late hos-
tile conduct of Great Britain, is, that we are
bound to look to our whole political affairs, - 696

23, Letter from the New-Hampshire Congress to the
Massachusetts Congress. The People of New-
Hampshire are heartily engaged in the com-
mon cause, and at all hazards determined to
stand by and support it, relying on Divine
Providence for success, .... 697

24,
24,

24,

24,

24,

25.

25,

25,

25,
25,

25,

25,

25,

25,
25,

25,

Jjetter from Colonel John Fenton to the New-
Hampshire Congress, -
Letter from the Committee from Connecticut to
the New- York Congress, - - - -

Petition of Captain Delaplace to the Assembly of
Connecticut. The Fortress of Ticonderoga,
of which he had the command, was taken on
the 10th instant, by one Ethan Allen, and the
Garrison made prisoners and sent to Hartford.
Requests to know by what authority Allen took
them, and why they are detained,
Address of the Provincial Congress to the Inha-
bitants of Massachusetts-Bay, - - -
Letter from Enoch Freeman to Samuel Freeman,
at Watertown. He cannot attend the Com-
mittee of Safety, but will render any service
in his power in the more exposed eastern parts
of the Province, . . - - -

Enemies to the Rights and Liberties of the
Country, who have aided the plans of a ty-
rannical ruler and an abandoned Ministry,
disarmed at Worcester, Massachusetts, and
ordered not to leave the Town or meet to-
gether, - - - - - - -

No evidence has appeared before the Committee
of Woburn, in Massachusetts, to prove Major
Benjamin Thompson, of Concord, New- Hamp-
shire, an enemy to the liberties of the Coun-
try, -

John Ackerman and others, of New- Hampshire,
charged as inimical to the liberties of Ame-
rica, acquitted and discharged, -
Richmond County, Virginia, Committee. Re-
solutions, disapproving of the Address of the
Council of Virginia to the People,
Lancaster County, Virginia, Committee. Reso-
lutions justifying themselves and their consti-
tuents from the imputations of the Governour
in his Speech to the Council, on the 2d of May,
and their advice and the Proclamation of the

3d of May,

Meeting of the Inhabitants of the Borough of
Norfolk, in Virginia. Resolve to have no
dealings with any person who shall give any
assistance to the enemies of the Confederated
Colonies, -....-

Address to the People of Virginia, - - -
Meeting of the Officers of twenty Militia Com-
panies, at Dover, in Delaware. Approve and
sign an Association, and appoint Field-Officers
for the Upper and Lower Regiments of the

County,

Letter from Arthur St. Clair to Governour Penn.
State of affairs at Pittsburgh; the proceedings
of Connolly, under Lord Dunmore, has thrown
every thing in confusion. An Association has
been formed in the County for the defence of
American Liberty. Connolly has sent Mes-
sengers to the Indians, and it is understood he
is preparing to decamp, ...
Letter from the Provincial Congress of New-
York to the Governour of Connecticut. Or-
ders have been given to remove the Cannon
and Stores taken at Ticonderoga, to the south
end of Lake George. New- York will make
no objections to the sending of Troops from
Connecticut for the protection of Ticonderoga,
Resolution of the Continental Congress directing
the removal of the Stores from Ticonderoga,
Letter from the Provincial Congress of New-
York to the Agents appointed by them to
superintend the removal of the Cannon and
Stores from Ticonderoga, -
Instructions to the Agents, enclosed in the fore-
going Letter, ------

Letter from Colonel Spencer to the Assembly of
Connecticut, - - - - - ' .

Letter from Governour Trumbull to the Massa-
chusetts Congress. As the enterprise against
Ticonderoga was a private undertaking, with-
out any publick authority, it has been thought
proper to take the advice of the Continental
Congress upon the manner of treating it in
future, -------

Letter from General Thomas to the Provincial
Congress. Thanks them for his appointment
as Lieutenant-General of the Massachusetts
Army, -------

698
843

698
699

700

700

701
701
701

- 702

703
703

704

- 705

705
706

1251

1251

706

706

707

LXV

1775.
■May-25, Letter from Joseph Warren to the Massachusetts

Congress, ------ 707

25, Letter from the Committee of Maiden, Massa-
chusetts, to the Committee of Safety, - 708

25, Petition from the Inhabitants of Machias to the

Massachusetts Congress, - - - - 708

25, Letter from the Committee of Correspondence for
Cumberland County to the Massachusetts Con-
gress, ------- 709

25, Letter from Thomas Barnard to the Salem Com-
mittee of Safety. His declaration of attach-
ment to the cause of America, - - - 710

25, Committee of Safety for Salem, Massachusetts.

The declaration of the Rev. Thomas Barnard,
satisfactory ; and he should be hereafter looked
upon as a friend to his Country, - - - 710

26, General Committee for Charlestown, South-

Carolina, prohibit the exportation of Corn from
the Province; and require eight thousand
bushels of Salt, imported in the Brigantine
Hannah, from Liverpool, to be forthwith sent
back, the Salt having been shipped at Liver-
pool as Merchandise, with intent to put the
American Association at defiance, - - 710

2G, Loudoun County, Virginia, Committee. Disap-
prove of Lord Dunmore's seizing the Powder,
and approve of the measures of Patrick Henry
and the Hanover Volunteers, - - - 710

26, Letter from the President of the Continental
Congress to the New- York Congress, enclos-
ing the Resolutions of Congress of May 25,
recommending the establishment of Posts at or
near King's Bridge, and in the Highlands,
and other measures of defence, - 844

26, Letter from the Provincial Congress of New-
Jersey to the Provincial Congress of New-
York. An uniform plan of conduct should
be adopted by the Colonies; and they have
applied for the advice and direction of the Con-
tinental Congress on that subject; they abo
recommend the establishment of a correspon-
dence between the Colonies, ... 845

26, Letter from the New- York Congress to the Mas-
sachusetts Committee of Safety, - - - 711

26, Petition of Samuel Tudor to the New- York
Congress, in behalf of the Independent Artil-
lery Company, for Ammunition, &c., - - 845

26, Letter from the New- York Congress to their
Delegates in the Continental Congress. The
subject of issuing a Paper Currency is now
under consideration, and they wish to consider
it further before the Continental Congress
comes to a final determination on the subject, - 845

26, Letter from the Albany Committee to the New-
York Congress, enclosing a number of papers
relating to the present state of affairs in the
Northern parts of the Province, - - - 712
Extracts of intercepted Letters, enclosed in a Let-
ter from the Albany Committee to the Provin-
cial Congress of New-York, dated May 26, - 846

26, Letter from Ethan Allen to the Assembly of Con-
necticut, - - - - - - -713

24, Letter from Ethan Allen, Colonel of the Green
Mountain Boys, to the several Tribes of In-
dians in Canada, inviting them to join him, - 714

26, Letter from Benedict Arnold to the Massachusetts

Committee of Safety, - - 714

26, Letter from the Massachusetts Congress to the
Congress of New- York. They have directed
Mr. Arnold to send from Ticonderoga such of
the Cannon as can be spared, for the use of the
Army in Massachusetts. General Gage has
broken his faith with the Inhabitants of Bos-
ton; after they had delivered up their Arms he
refused to let them go. New- York may profit
by their example, ----- 715

26, Letter from Joseph Hawley to the Massachusetts
Committee of Safety; requesting copies of
Col. Benedict Arnold's Commission, Instruc-
tions, &c, - - - - - -716

26, Letter from Benjamin Greenleaf to the Massa-
chusetts Congress; requesting to be excused
from serving on the Committee of Safety, - 716

26, Letter from the Massachusetts Committee of
Safety to the Provincial Congress, complaining
of Colonel Jonathan Brewer, of Waltham, - 716

26, L"tter from the Massachusetts Congress to the
New-Hampshire Congress; urging them to

Fourth Sebies. — Vol. ii.

CONTENTS.

LXVI

1775.

send forward with all speed the Troops they
have been raising to serve against the common
enemy, ---.... 717
May26, Letter from Captain Samuel Bullard to the Mas-
sachusetts Committee of Safety, - - - 717

27, Frederick County, Virginia, Committee. No
measures with Administration, which may
affect the Liberties of America, ought to be
agreed to by this Colony without the concur-
rence of the other Colonies, - - - 718

27, Prince George's County, Maryland, Committee.
Thomas Bailly has committed a wilful viola-
tion of the Continental Association, in selling
imported Salt ; and John Baynes has violated
the Continental and Provincial Association by
killing a Lamb, 718

27, Letter from Abraham Lott to the New- York
Congress, requesting their direction whether
he shall comply with an order to supply His
Majesty's Ship Asia with Provisions, - - 846

27, Letter from Governour Trumbull to the New-
York Congress, on the threatened attack from
the Province of Quebeck on Ticonderoga and
Crown Point, ------ 846

27, Letter from the Assembly of Connecticut to the
Massachusetts Congress. They think the
stand should be made at Ticonderoga, and not
at Fort George, as advised by the Continental
Congress, which advice they have desired their
Delegates to request may be reconsidered, - 719

27, Account of the battle at Chelsea, Hog- Island, &c,

in Massachusetts, ----- 720
Representation of the Selectmen of Waltham
to the Massachusetts Committee of Safety;
charging Major Abijah Brown with being un-
friendly to the Country, - - - - 720

27, Letter from the Committee of Safety to the Mas-
sachusetts Congress, referring to them the
complaint against Major Abijah Brown, - 721
Major Brown acquitted of the charges against
him by the Provincial Congress, - - - 721

27, Letter from the Massachusetts Congress to the
Continental Congress. The order to remove
the Cannon from Ticonderoga to this Colony
was given without the slightest intention of
offence to New- York. It is of the utmost
importance that Ticonderoga, or some Post
near it, should be maintained, to interrupt the
water communication between Canada and the
Colonies, - - - - - - - 721

27, Letter from the Massachusetts Congress to the
Assembly of Connecticut. Before any thing
further is done in relation to Ticonderoga the
advice of the Continental Congress should be
had, and also the special advice of New- York,
in whose jurisdiction it is, - - - - 722

27, Letter from the Massachusetts Congress to Col.

Benedict Arnold, at Ticonderoga, - - 723

27, Instructions to Colonel Henshaw, appointed by

the Massachusetts Congress to proceed to the
Governour of Connecticut, to ascertain if pro-
vision is made for securing and maintaining
Ticonderoga, - 723

28, Letter from Colonel Henshaw to Joseph Warren, 723
28, Minutes of Colonel Joseph Henshaw's journey

to Connecticut, - ... 724

27, Letter from the Selectmen of Partridgeficld to the

Massachusetts Congress, - 724

27, Condition of New-Hampshire, as delivered by

their Delegates to the Continental Congress, - 725

27, Recantation of Ebenezer Loverin, of Kensing-

ton, New-Hampshire, - - . . 725

Letter from Gouverneur Morris to Richard
Henry Lee. A favourable sentence in Riving-
ton's case, which has been referred to the Con-
tinental Congress, will be highly agreeable to
most men in New- York, - 726

28, Letter from Richard Henry Lee to Gouverneur

Morris. Happily for the cause of humanity,
the Colonies are now united, and may bid de-
fiance to Tyranny and its infamous abetters.
Mr. Rivington's case, and all others of a like
kind, arc referred to the Colony Conventions
where the offence was committed, - - 726

28, Letterfrom the Massachusetts Committee of Safe-

ty to Colonel Benedict Arnold, ... 726

29, Charles County, Maryland, Committee. John

Baillie and Patrick Graham of Port Tobacco,

IAVII

1775.

CONTENTS.

1775.

LXVI1I

for their infamous conduct in importing Dry-
Uoods in violation of the Continental Associa-
tion, to be held up as eOMnia of American
Liberty, and all persons to leave off dealing
with them, ...--- 727

Ma y29,New- York Committee. All persons having any
( isnaburghs. Havens' Duck, Russia Sheeting,
Ik , are requested not to dispose of them until
the Provincial Congress shall determine on the
expediency of detaining them for their own
use, ...--•- 728

29, Letter from the New- York Congress to the
Provincial Congress of New-Jersey. Nothing
at this critical juncture can tend more to ensure
success than an uniform plan of conduct for
the several Colonies; to this end we ought to
look to the Continental Congress, - - 12G0

29, Letter from the New- York Congress to their
Delegates at Philadelphia. There is no Pow-
der to be purchased in the City, and scarce
any in the whole Colony; and a very con-
siderable number of the Inhabitants are with-
out Arms, 1260

29, Letter from the New- York Congress to the Com-
mittees in the several Counties, requesting that
the Resolution for subscribing the Associa-
tion may be carried into effect without delay,
and that the names of those who refuse to sign
may be returned to the Congress, - - - 1261

29, Letter from the New- York Congress to Gover-
nour Trumbull. New- York not being able
to take command of the Posts of Crown Point
and Ticonderoga, wishes Connecticut to do so, 728

29, Memorandum by Colonel Arnold of the Men
and Military Stores required for the ensuing
Summer, ------- 847

29, Letter from Governour Trumbull to the New-
York Congress. Colonel Hinman with one
thousand Men ordered to Ticonderoga, for the
protection of that Post and Crown Point, - 847

29, Letter from J. Trumbull, Jun., to his Brother,

at Cambridge, 728

29, Committee of New-Milford, in the County of
Litchfield, Connecticut, publish Zachariah
Ferris. Joseph F'erris, Jun., James Osborne,
Daniel Taylor, Nathaniel Taylor and Heze-
kiah Stevens, Jun., all of New-Milford, as
persons to be universally neglected and treated
as incorrigible enemies to the rights of British
America, 730

29, Letter from the Selectmen of New-Haven to

Governour Trumbull, .... 730

29, Letter from Governour Trumbull to the Massa-
chusetts Congress, informing them of the mea-
sures taken for the security of Crown Point
and Ticonderoga, ..... 730

29, Letter from Governour Trumbull to the Albany
Committee. Connecticut has made provision,
with the consent of New-York, for the protec-
tion of Ticonderoga and Crown Point, - - 731

St9, Letter from William Gilleland to the Continen-
tal Congress, on the protection of the North-
ern frontiers of New- York, - - - 73 1

29, Military Companies forming in various parts of

New-Jersey, ...... 732

29, Letter from Ethan Allen to the Continental Con-
gress, showing the injurious effects of aban-
doning Ticonderoga and Crown Point, - 732

29, Letter from Benedict Arnold to the Continental
Congress. Informs them of his participation
in tiie capture of Ticonderoga, and of his
subsequent proceedings there. Remonstrates
against the abandonment of Ticonderoga; five
hundred families to the north of it will be left
to the mercy of the King's Troops and the In-
dians, ----... 734

29, Letter from Benedict Arnold to the Massachu-
setts Committee of Safety. Surprised and
alarmed on learning the order of the Continen-
tal Congress to remove the Stores from Ticon-
deroga to Fort George. Colonel Allen has
entirely given up the command, ... 735

29, Letter from the Massachusetts Congress to Go-
vernour Trumbull, showing the importance
of retaining possession of Ticonderoga, . 735

89, Letter from the Massachusetts Congress to the
New-Hampshire Congress. The measure
taken by the Continental Congress, of aban-

737

738

739

- 739

doning Ticonderoga, will be highly injurious
to the Colonies east of Hudson's River,
Mat/'Z9, Letter from the Committee of Sandwich to the
Massachusetts Congress, giving a statement of
facts relating to the capture of several Vessels
by Capt. Lindsey, of the Falcon, sloop-of-war,

29, Letter from the Committee of Salem to the Mas-
sachusetts Committee of Safety. They are
satisfied of the propriety of Mr. Stephen Hig-
ginson's conduct, in the answers he gave when
on examination before the House of Commons,

29, Letter from Colonel John Stark to the New-
Hampshire Congress, -

29, Letter from the Committee of Portsmouth, New-
Hampshire, to the Committee of Newburyport.
Two Provision Vessels seized in the Harbour
by Captain Barclay, of the King's Ship Scar-
borough, - ...... 740

Particular account of the capture of the Provi-
sion Vessels. Orders given by General Gage
and Admiral Graves, to take every Vessel
with Provisions met with on any station, and
send thern to Boston, for supplies for the Army
and Navy, ...... 740

Address to General Gage, - - - - 74 1

MASSACHUSETTS COMMITTEE OF SAFETV.

Apr. 5, Committee of Safety, meets at Concord, - - 741
Committee of Supplies to furnish an exact ac-
count of all Provisions and Stores, - - 741
14, Cannon in Concord to be disposed of immediate-
ly within the Town, - - - - - 741
Powder at Leicester to be removed to Concord, - 741
Colonel Gardner chosen one of the Committee
of Safety, by the Provincial Congress, in place
of Deacon Fisher, resigned, - - - 741

17, Application to be made to certain persons to take

command of Artillery Companies, - - 742
Colonel Barret requested to raise an Artillery

Company, ...... 742

Pay of Artillery Companies established, - - 743

Four Cannon sent to Groton to Colonel Prescott, 743

Two brass Mortars sent to Acton, - - - 743
Committee of Safety and Committee of Supplies

adjourn to Menotomy, .... 743

18, Four brass Cannon to be under the care of the

Boston Company and Captain Robinson, - 743
Letter to Captain Timothy Bigelow, - - 743
All the Ammunition of the Province to be de-
posited in nine different Towns, - - - 743
Provisions to be removed from Concord to Sud-
bury, 743

Six Companies of Matrosses, - - - - 743
Disposition to made of the Cannon, Powder, and

Military Stores of all kinds, ... 743
Letter to Colonel Barret, countermanding the
order to remove the Powder from Leicester to
Concord, ------- 743

21, Form of Enlistment adopted, .... 744
Eight thousand effective Men to be enlisted, to

serve for seven months, .... 744

Colonel Gridley and his son, and David Mason,

required to attend the Committee immediately, 745

Field-Pieces to be prepared for action imme-
diately, 745

Captain Dexter to conceal the Cannon in his
charge, 745

General Officers required to make a Return of
such Officers and Soldiers as are engaged to
serve in the Massachusetts Army, and to give
in a List of such as they deem qualified for
Field-Oflicers, 745

22, Military Stores to be removed from the Seaport

Towns, ----... 745
Intrenching Tools to be inspected and repaired, 745

24, Field-Offlcers of Minute-Men at Cambridge re-

quired to attend the Committee immediately, 745
Inhabitants of Chelsea and Maiden forbidden to
fire upon the Seamen under Admiral Graves, 745

25, The Cannon at Marlborough to be brought to

Waltham and mounted, .... 745
Col. Freeman, of Sandwich, to secure the Whale

Boats at Cape Cod, 745

Beating Orders for enlistment of persons belong-
ing to New-Hampshire, .... 745
Provincial Congress requested to reduce the Com-
panies to fifty-nine Men each, - . . 745

746

746

746

746
746

746

746
746
746

747
747

747

747

747

747
747

1775.

lxix CONTENTS.

1775.

A/)r.25,Escort to the Members of Continental Congress,

26, General Preble at Falmouth, requested to attend

at Cambridge, ------

Fifteen of the Prisoners at Concord removed to

Worcester Jail, -

Provincial Congress requested to make an Es-
tablishment for Armourers, -
Enlistments in the Army encouraged,
Order of the 24th instant, forbidding the Inhabi-
tants of Chelsea and Maiden to fire on the
Seamen under command of Admiral Graves,
rescinded, ------

Inhabitants of Chelsea and Maiden authorized
to defend themselves, as their judgment may
direct, -------

Warrant for supplying an Express,

Certificate to Dr. Bond, - - - -

27, Instructions to Captain Derby, intrusted with

intelligence to the Agent in England, -
Letters sent to Rhode- Island and Connecticut, -
Colonel Glover to prevent intelligence being sent

to the Lively, Ship-of-War, at Marblehead, -

28, Post-Riders, between the Army and Worcester,

recommended, ------

General Gage's Precepts for calling an Assem-
bly not to be noticed, - - - - -

None living in New- York, or any other Go-
vernment, to be enlisted for the service of this
Province, ------

Cannon at Medford to be brought to Cambridge,
Inhabitants of Boston yesterday surrendered their
Fire-Arms, as they had agreed to do, with
General Gage, -

Committee to take the state of Boston into consi-
deration, -------

29, Committee to take into consideration the removal

of the Inhabitants from Boston, - - -
Neighbouring Towns required to send one-half

of their Militia to Cambridge and Roxbury, -
Expresses to press as many Horses as they have

occasion for, ------

General Ward to apply to the Commissary for

such Stores as he may have occasion for,
Dr. Foster authorized to remove the sick and

wounded to the Hospital, - - - -
Captain Benedict Arnold, with a Company, ar-
rived from Connecticut, - - -
General Thomas ordered to seize Governour

Hutchinson's Papers, - - - -

30, Captain Benedict Arnold reports the quantity of

Cannon at Ticonderoga, and that the Fortress
is in a ruinous condition, - - - -

Province Arms at Worcester or Concord to be
brought to Cambridge, - - - -

Committee to form a plan for the liberation of
the Inhabitants of Boston, - - - -

Orders to Colonel Gerrish, - - - -

John Pierce Palmer appointed Quartermaster-
Genera) of the Army, -

Inhabitants of the Colony desirous of removing
into Boston, permitted to do so, -
May 1, Paper Currencies of Connecticut and Rhode-Is-
land to pass in Massachusetts, - - -

Rev. Mr. Gordon to have free access to the Pri-

soners, -------

2, Committee on the proposal of Colonel Arnold,
for an attempt on Ticonderoga, - - -

Recantations from Marblehead received, -
* Money, &c, to be delivered to Captain Arnold,
for the use of the Colony, upon a certain ser-
vice, approved of by the Council of War,

Colonel Arnold appointed to a secret service, au-
thorized to appoint certain Officers,

Ten Horses to be procured for Colonel Arnold,
to be employed on a special service,

3, Orders to Colonel Arnold, relative to au attempt

upon Ticonderoga, - - - - -

4, The publick good of the Colony requires that Go-

vernment in full form ought to be taken up
immediately, - - - - - - 751

Letter to the Governour of Connecticut, request-
ing him to forward three or four thousand
Troops, - - 751

Committee to confer with the Council of War, on

the arrival of re-enforcements at Boston, - 752
7, To prevent the appointment of Surgeons who may
not be agreeable to the Officers and Soldiers,
Colonels are to nominate them, ... 752

747
747
747
747
748
748
748
748
748

748

749

749
749

749

749

749

750

750
750

750
750
750
751

LXX

Mai/7, Committee for Chelsea to prevent Provisions from

being carried into Boston, - - - - 753

9, Recommend a new Commission for the Committee

of Safety, 753

Council of War recommend a re-enforcement of
two thousand Men to be brought into Camp
the ensuing night, ----- 753
A Court of Inquiry proposed for the trial of ac-
cused persons, ------ 753

10, Many Batteaus, Whale Boats, and others, will
very soon be wanted on Charles River, and
Carpenters are ordered to be engaged to make
them, 753

Letter to the Colonels of the Army, informing a
blow is meditated against the enemy, and or-
dering them to repair forthwith to Cambridge, 754

Letter to the Provincial Congress, enclosing the
foregoing orders, ----- 754

William Goodwin empowered to take posses-
sion of a number of Boats in Charlestown,
and to press Teams to take the Boats to Cam-
bridge, 754

Mr. Watson empowered to remove to Cambridge
the Boats now in Menotomy River, - - 754

General Gage intends soon to come out of Bos-
ton, (Note,) 754

11, Provincial Congress requested to establish a Court
of Inquiry for the trial of suspected persons, - 754

12, Works recommended to be erected to prevent the
enemy from passing into the country from
Boston, - - - - - - -755

The determination of this matter rests with the
Council of War, ----- 755

Seizure of Tories, and detaining them until Gen.
Gage complies with his engagement made with
the Inhabitants of Boston, recommended, - 755

Committee adjourns to Congress, upon matters of
great importance, ----- 755

14, Andrew Craigie empowered to impress beds, bed-
ding, and other necessaries for the sick, - 756

Josiah Martin having promised, with his life and
fortune, to stand for the defence of his Country,
is to be received into the favour of his country-
men, --..-.. 756

Live Stock to be taken from Hog-Island, Nod- •
die-Island and Snake- Island, ... 757

Persons escaping from Boston, to be received and
protected, ------- 757

15, Account of Ordnance and Military Stores, - 757
Lady Frankland permitted to pass into Boston,

with certain goods and articles for her voyage, 757

Note from Lady Frankland to Dr. Warren.' —
(Note,) 757

Note from Lady Frankland to the Committee of
Safety, (Note,) 757

Letters from New- York, relative to the establish-
ing a Post-Office, referred to the Provincial
Congress, ------ 757

Fifty-four Whale Boats to be provided for the
use of the Colony, ----- 759

Establishment for the Companies of Matrosses, - 759

Ten Swivels to be provided for the use of the
Army, 760

Committee to repair to the Provincial Congress,
and request that the duty of the Committee of
Safety be precisely stated, - - - . 760

General Gage not having kept his agreement
with the Inhabitants of Boston, it is recom-
mended to the Provincial Congress to rescind
their Resolution of the 30th of April, founded
on that agreement, ----- 760

Students of Harvard College, who had been
furnished with Arms, are requested to return
them, 761

Female friends to America requested to send such
quantities of Rags as they can spare for the
Surgeons of the Massachusetts Forces, - 761

19, Capt. John Lane furnished with enlisting papers

for raising a Company of Indians at the East-
ward, 761

Letter to the several Colonels, requesting imme-
diate Returns, - - - - - - 761

A Horse and Sulkey furnished Dr. Church, for
his journey to Philadelphia, ... 751

20, No Slave to be admitted into the Army, - - 762

22, Post-Riders discharged, .... 753

23, Congress requested to take measures to secure the

Stock on the Islands and Sea- Coasts, - - 762

16,

17,

LXXI

J/uy23,Thirty thousand Men considered necessary for the

ice of the lives, liberty and property of

\ui.ricans; and not more than twenty-four

thousand having been raised by the s>-v.r;il

n.s, the matter is laid before the Con-

CONTENTS.

LXXII

MASSACHUSETTS PROVINCIAL CONGRESS.

il/ir.22,Letter from Mr. Quincy to Mr. Adams, read in
the Congress, and sent to Dr. Warren,
Committee to take Depositions of the transactions
of the Troops under General Gage, in their
route to and from Concord, on Wednesday last,
to be sent to England, ....

23, An Army of thirty thousand Men necessary for

the defence of the Colony, -
Thirteen thousand six hundred Men to be imme-
diately raised in this Province, -
Committee to bring in a plan for the establish-
ment of the Army, - - -
Committees to New- Hampshire, Connecticut and
Rhode- Island, to request their concurrence in
raising the Army, -
Doctor Warren elected President, -
Establishment of the Army, - - - -
Committees of the several Towns requested to
furnish enlisted Men with Blankets,

24, Committee of Safety or Committee of Supplies

empowered to impress Horses or Teams,
Committee to attend the Committee of Safety, to

name suitable persons for Officers in the Army

now raising, ------

Letters from Hartford read and forwarded to the

Committee of Safety at Cambridge,

25, Motion to ascertain the number of delinquent

Towns and Districts rejected,

Proceedings with the Indian Nations to be kept
secret. Other matters before the Congress to
be left to the discretion of each Member,

Companies in each Regiment to be reduced from
one hundred Men tq fifty-nine Men each, and
each Regiment to ten Companies,

26, Committee to draught a Letter to the Agent in

Great Britain, ------

William Burbeck appointed an Engineer of the
Forces now raising in this Colony for the de-
fence of the rights and liberties or the Ameri-
can Continent, ------

Richard Gridley appointed Chief Engineer,
Committee to consider the state of the Eastern

parts of the Province, -

Committee of Supplies directed to procure Pow-
der and Ball for the Colony, and to furnish
what can be spared to the Eastern Towns, -
Marblehead, Salem and Newburyport required
to sell four half-barrels of Powder each, to
the Towns of York, Welles, Biddeford and
Boothbay, -

27, Committee to inquire what provision is made for

a Post to ride from the Army to Worcester ;
and also to procure a Writ issued by General
Gage for calling an Assembly in May next, -

Motion by Mr. Gerry that the Committees of the
Seaport Towns in the County of Essex be ad-
vised to have all the effects of the Inhabitants
removed as soon as possible,

Committee to get an exact account of the Men
killed and wounded and murdered in the late
scene, on the I'.Uh instant, -

Committee to make true copies of the Deposi-
tions, and have them signed and authenticated,

28, Committee to confer with the Gentlemen from

New- Hampshire, and to lay before them the
Laden )tut received from New- York, dated
April 19,

762

gress, - - - - ■ • "
24, Immediate removal of the Sheep and Hay from
Noddle Island recommended, - - -

29, Committee of Cohasset requested to restore to Mr.

Temple his Property, and they and all others
to treat him as a friend to this Country and to
the rights of all America, - - - -
Rev. Mr Cordon of Koxbury authorized to re-
ceive from Capt. McLane a volume of copies
of Governour Hutchinson's Letters,

30, Elisha Littrnwell directed to remove from Chel-

sea to Cambridge the Cannon and Stores of a
Schooner burned by our People, - - 764

- 763

764

764

763

765

765

- 765

765

765
766
766

766

766

766
767

- 767

767

- 767

768

768
768

769

769

- 769

770

- 770

770

771

771

771

771

- 772

772

772

772
772

- 772

772

- 772

1775.
Apr.28, Letter to the Convention of New- Hampshire, -

Committee to consult with the Committee from
New-Hampshire respecting the New-Hamp-
shire Forces, now at Cambridge,

Committee to consider a Letter from Stephen
Hopkins, dated Providence, April 27,

Committee to consider the expediency of estab-
lishing Post-Riders between the Massachusetts
Forces and the Town of Worcester, -

Committee to consider the propriety of advising
the Towns not to notice the Precepts issued
by General Gage for calling a General As-
sembly, - - - - - -

Committee to prepare the form of a Commission
for the Officers of the Army now forming in
this Province, ------

Committee to prepare Rules for the government
of the House, ------

Committee to ascertain what has taken place for
the release of our friends in Boston,

Committee to bring in a Resolve empowering the
Committee of Supplies to procure Provisions
and Military Stores for the Army now form-
ing in this Colony, - - -

29, Papers presented, containing the Proceedings of

the Town of Boston with General Gage,

Committee of Safety requested to report on the
Papers, -------

Rules for the government of the Congress
adopted, -------

Committee of Supplies empowered to purchase
every kind of Military Stores, Provisions and
all other Supplies, for the use of the Forces of
this Colony, ------

Pay of Field-Officers reduced, -

County Committees to report, on the fourth Wed-
nesday in May, the conduct of the Towns
and Districts with respect to their having exe-
cuted the Continental and Provincial measures
for the preservation of this Country from
slavery, - - - - -

Committee to consider on some method for sup-
plying the Treasury, -

Committee to confer with Jos. Brown, of Rhode-
Island, -------

Letter from New- York, dated April 24, recom-
mending the intercepting of the Despatches to
General Gage, -----

30, State and situation of the Cannon and Military

Stores, 775

Express sent to the Committee of Safety, to pro-
cure their result with respect to moving out
the Inhabitants of Boston,

Letter to the Committee of Safety, sent by the
Express, --....

Committee to inquire into the conduct of the
several Towns relative to Prisoners of War,

Resolve from the Committee of Safety, respecting
the liberation of the Inhabitants of Boston, ac-
cepted, and ordered to be sent to the Selectmen
of Boston, to be communicated to Gen. Gage,
May 1, Committee to examine the Papers of the Con-
gress, and report what may be published,

Letter from Major Hawley, respecting the Bearer
of Despatches for General Gage ; referred to
Committee of Safety, -

Motion that William Read be admitted to state
the sufferings he met with on the 19th April,
rejected. Committee to confer with him,

Form of Commission for Colony Officers,

Pass for the use of Members of Congress,

Resolutions for the removal of the Poor from
Boston, 777

Report of Committee on application of William
Read, - - - . - . . 779
2, Joseph Warren chosen President, ... 779

Committee on securing the Records of the Coun-
ties, ---.... 779

Letter to the Delegates from this Colony in Con-
necticut, ...... 780

Committee to forward to the Continental Con-
gress copies of the Depositions, and Address to
the Inhabitants of Great Britain, and Letter to
Mr. Franklin, lately sent to Great Britain, - 781

Effects of persons removing into Boston may be
sent there, ------ 781

Committee on liberating the persons taken Pri-
soners on the 19th of April, - - 782

772
773

773

774

- 774

774

775

775

- 775

775

776

776
776

776

777
777
777

i-xxm

1775.
May 3, Committee of Supplies directed to furnish Colonel
Benedict Arnold ten Horses, and Powder,
Lead and Flints, 782

Committee to revise the Commission of the Com-
mittee of Supplies, ..... 782

Receiver-General directed to borrow One Hun-
dred Thousand Pounds, - 782

Horses and Carriages of Members of this Con-
gress excepted from impressment, - - 783

Committee to procure a Copperplate for printing
the Colony Notes, 783

Rev. Mr. Gordon chosen Chaplain to the Con-
gress during their session in Watertown, - 783

Report of Committee on liberating Prisoners
taken by Gen. Gage, the 19th of April, (Note,) 784

Resolve on the same subject, ... - 784

4, Pay to the Soldiers advanced, ... 784
Committee to hold a Conference with the Dele-
gates from Connecticut to General Gage, - 785

Their Report, 785

Committee to prepare a Letter to the Assembly
of Connecticut, on their application to General
Gage, 785

5, Resolution of April 1, recommending the Writs

of General Gage, for electing Members of an
Assembly, should be obeyed, reconsidered and
rescinded, and declare that no obedience ought
in future to be paid to his Writs, Proclamations,
or any other of his doings, ... 786

Letter to the Assembly of Connecticut, - - 786

Letter to General Ward, on the obstruction to the
liberation of the Inhabitants of Boston, - 787

New Provincial Congress to be elected, to meet
on the 31st of May, 788

Resolution from the Committee of Safety, that
Government in full form ought to be taken up,
to be considered on the 9th instant, - - 788

6, Committee of Safety authorized to procure Pow-

der from any Colony on the Continent, - 789

Committee to consider the Letter received yester-
day from the Speaker of the Assembly of Con-
necticut, - 789

Committee of Supplies authorized to import Mili-
tary Stores from such place and in such quan-
tities as they may judge proper, ... 789

Committee to ascertain what number of Province
Arms there are in the Province, - 790

Establishment for the Train, .... 790

7, Committee of Supplies authorized to procure

Fire-Arms and Bayonets from any Colony on

the Continent, - 790

8, Oath to be administered to the Officers and Pri-

vate Soldiers of the Army now raising in this
Colony, - - - ' - - - - 791
Letter to the Selectmen of Hopkinton, - - 79 1
Letter from Committee of Portsmouth, of the 6th

instant, 792

Letter from General Ward, .... 792
Answer to the Letter from Portsmouth, - - 792
Committees of Correspondence of the several
Towns to inquire into the principles and con-
duct of suspected persons, and to cause all to
be disarmed who are found unfriendly to the
rights and liberties of America, ... 793
Letter to General Ward, .... 794

Consideration of the expediency of assuming Go-
vernment postponed to Friday, the 12th inst, - 794

9, Committee to prepare a spirited application to

General Gage, respecting his treatment of the
Inhabitants of Boston, .... 795

Committee to consider the expediency of establish-
ing Post-Offices and Post-Riders, - - 795

Resolutions on the false account of the late Excur-
sion of the King's Troops, .... 795

Resolution for supplying those Soldiers with
Fire-Arms who are not equipped therewith, • 796

Twenty Armourers to be appointed by the Com-
mittee of Safety, to repair the Arms of the Sol-
diers of the Massachusetts Army, - - 796
10, Letter to General Gage, on his violation of the
Agreement for the removal of the Inhabitants
of Boston, - 798

Report on the Complaint made against Samuel
1 ':iin and William Campbell, by the Selectmen
of Worcester, - - - " - - - 799

Committee to consider the Applications from the
Eastern parts of the Province, for Arms and
Ammunition, .---.* 799

CONTENTS.

LXXIV

1775.

May[ 1, Resolutions providing for a present supply of
Powder to the most exposed of the Eastern

Towns, 799

Committee to write a Letter to New- York, ad-
vising them of the sailing of two Men-of-War
from Boston, 800

12, Committee to consider the expediency of raising

a Company or two of Indians, - 800

All persons required to give Rev. Mr. Gordon
free access to the Prisoners, ... 800

Committee to write to the Continental Congress,
for obtaining their recommendation for this
Colony to take up and exercise Civil Govern-
ment, - - - - - - -801

General Ward directed to order four respectable
Officers to escort the President to Colonel
Quincy, at Braintree, to-morrow morning, - 801

Committee to estimate the damages done at Con-
cord, Lexington, and Cambridge, by the King's
Troops, on the 19th of April, - - - 80 1

Establishment for the Companies of Matrosses, - 801

13, Committee to take a third set of Depositions rela-

tive to the Battle of Lexington, ... 802

Post-Roads established, 802

Post-Masters appointed, 803

Rates of Postage, 803

15, Committee to attend the Provincial Congress of

New-Hampshire, 803

Committee to prepare the Application to the Con-
tinental Congress directed to desire the Con-
gress to take charge of directing and regulating
the American Forces, .... 804

Committee to examine the Letters of Governour
Hutchinson, lately discovered, and report such
Letters and Extracts as they think it will be
proper to publish, ..... 804

Persons prohibited from removing their Goods
and Effects out of the Colony, without per-
mission of the Committee of Correspondence of
the Town they belong to, - - - - 804

Committee of Falmouth authorized to send an
Embassy to Canada, to ascertain the designs
and manoeuvres of the Inhabitants of that Co-
lony, 804

Report of Committee to authorize the establish-
ment of a Court of Inquiry, to hear and decide
on complaints against any person for treason
against the Constitution of their Country, sub-
mitted, debated, and rejected, ... 805

16, Committee to consider the verbal information of

the capture of three Vessels, by a King's Cut-
ter, at Dartmouth, ..... 806

Dr. Church appointed to go to the Continental
Congress, with the application from this Con-
gress, 806

Instructions to the Delegates to the New-Hamp-
shire Congress, ..... 806

Officers of the Artillery allowed to enlist Men
from the other Regiments, ... - 807

Committee to consider what should be done rela-
tive to the Prisoners in Boston, and the Inhabi-
tants who are there kept in duresse, - - 807

17, Letter from Edward Mott, dated May 1 1, giving

an account of the capture of Ticonderoga, and

a Letter from Ethan Allen, received and read, 807

Colonel Easton, from Ticonderoga, introduced to
the House, and each Member authorized to ask
him any questions, .... - 807

Form of Oath to be taken by the General Offi-
cers, 808

Letter to Assembly of Connecticut, proposing to
have the Cannon and Stores taken at Ticon-
deroga forwarded to the Army at Cambridge, 808

Colonel Allen to remain in possession of Ticon«
derogaanditsdependencies.that Fortress having
surrendered to him and others, « 808

Connecticut requested to garrison and maintain
Ticonderoga, until the advice of the Continen-
tal Congress can be had, .... 809

Committee to revise the Commission of the Com-
mittee of Safety, ..... 809

18, Officers of the Army of this Colony disqualified

from being Members of the Provincial Con-
gress, ....... 809

Committee of Safety elected, .... 810

Report of Committee on the application of Lady

Frankland, - - - - - -810

Mr. Craft sent for ; the allegations against him

IAXV

1775.

CONTENTS.

LXXVI

20,

22,

1; ho makes his defence, and is politely
admonished, -
At«yl8,Lady Frankland permitted to pan into Boston,
19, Colonel Bond, with a guard, ordered to escort
Lady Frankland to Boston, -

Letter from the Committee of < Jomanondanee of
oecticui read, respecting the taking of Ti-
conderoga, ------

Answer to this L iter rejwrted by Mr. Gerry, and
ptedj -------

Commission for the Committee of Safety,
Commission to General Waul, as General and
Commander-in-Chief of all the Forces raised
by the Congress of the Colony of Massachu-
setts, for the defence of this snathe other Ame-
rican < 'clonics, - - - - - -

Committee to get the Depositions and Narrative
of the late Excursion of the King's Troops to
Concord printed, - - - - -

Repot t of the Committee appointed to consider

the case of the Prisoners in Boston, and the

Inhabitants there kept in duresse,

Committee to consider what measures are proper

to be taken for organizing the Massachusetts

Army in the most effectual and ready manner,

Receiver-General authorized to issue Notes to the

amount of Twenty-Six Thousand Pounds, for

advance pay to the Massachusetts Army,

Report of the Committee on the practicability of

providing Chaplains for Massachusetts Army.

The President desired to deliver to General Ward

his Commission as General and Commander'

in-Chief of the Massachusetts Forces, -

Report of Committee on Petition of a number

of the Inhabitants of Dear- Island, in Lincoln

County, -------

Report of Committee appointed to consider what
should be done with the Estates of persons un-
friendly to the Country, - - -
Letter from General Ward, requesting a supply

of Ordnance, Arms and Ammunition,
Letter to Coloni I Arnold, signed and ordered to
be forwarded, ------

Report of Committee on the Depredations of the
British Troops on the Islands and Sea-Coasts;
read, and referred to the next Provincial Con-
gress, - - - - - _ -

Report of Committee appointed to consider what
further measures are necessary to be taken
for the organization of the Army,
Ebenezer Cutler permitted to go into Boston,

without his effects, -

Committee to effect the removal of the Poor of

the Town of Boston, ....

Quantity of Powder that may be spared for the
publick service from the stocks of the several
Towns, -.---..
Report of the Committee on the subject of ab-
sconding Soldiers, -
Letter to the New- York Provincial Congress, -
Able-bodied Men, without Arms, to be received

and mustered in the Army,

Report of Committee on the complaint of the

Committee of Safety against Mr. Jonathan

Brewer, -------

Officers in Colonel Read's Regiment,
Officers in General Ward's Regiment,
Officers in Colonel Learned's Regiment,
Officers in Colonel Walker's Regiment, -
Officers in Colonel Scamtnons's Regiment,
Officers in Colonel Prescott's Regiment, -
Officers in Colonel Cotton's Regiment,
Officers in Colonel Frye's Regiment,
Officers in Colonel Patterson's Regiment

rs in ( ieueral Thomas's Regiment -
Officers in Colonel Bridge's Regiment ' -
- in Colonel Mansfield's Regiment,
Officers in Colonel 1 lauielsou's Regimeut,
Officers in Colonel Fellows's Regiment, -
June 2, Officers in Colonel ( lardoer'e Regiment, -
3, Officers in Colonel Whitcomb'i Regiment,
Officers in Coloni I Doolittle's Regiment, -
Officers in Colonel Woodbridge's Regiment
Officers in Colonel Glover's Regiment, - ' .
Officers in CoL Jonathan Brewer's Regimenl -
Officers in Colonel l>lvjj Brewer's Regiment, -
Officers in Colonel Gerrish'e Regiment, -
Officers in Colonel Mows Little's Regiment -

23,

24,

25,

26,

18.
23.
23.
23,
23,
25.
26,
26,
27,
27,
27,
27,
27,
31.

12.
16,
16.
17,
17,
22,
26.

810
811

811

811

811

812

813

813

814

815

815
815

- 816

816

- 817

817

817

818

- 818
819

819

820

821
821

- 822

822
823
823
823
823
824
824
824
825
825
825
826
826
826
826
827
827
828
828
828
829
829
830
830

CORRESPONDENCE, PROCEEDINGS, ETC.

Mai/30, Note from the Secretary of State's Office, pub-
lished in the London Gazette, discrediting the
report of a Skirmish between some of the Peo-
ple in Massachusetts-Bay and a Detachment of
His Majesty's Troops, - - - -

Remarks on this Official paragraph, (Note,)

30, Letter from Arthur Lee, contradicting the state-
ment in the London Gazette, and informing
those who wish to see the original affidavits
which confirm the account, that they are depo-
sited with the Lord Mayor of London, for in-
spection, -------

30, Letter from Colonel James Easton to the Provin-
cial Congress, Committee of Safety, and Coun-
cil of War, in Cambridge and Watertown.
The necessity of protecting Ticonderoga ; Con-
necticut will furnish Men for its defence, but
expects Massachusetts to organize and pay
them. Offers to take the command of a Regi-
ment, and recommends other persons for ap-
pointments, -

30, Letter to the New- York Congress, from their
Delegates in the Continental Congress. The
proceedings of the Provincial Congress ap-
proved by the Continental Congress ; they are
requested to come to a speedy determination
on the Paper Currency. Further suggestions
for their consideration, -

30, Letter from the New- York Congress to their
Delegates in the Continental Congress, enclos-
ing a Report on Paper Currency : it is sent to
show their opinion of what ought to be done,
and not to be laid before the Continental Con-
gress, -------

30, Letter from Governour Trumbull to the Albany
Committee. One thousand Men ordered to
proceed to Ticonderoga and Crown Point; ex-
pects the Provincial Congress of New- York
will forward Provisions, -

30, Letter from Jonathan Parsons, Jun., at St John's,
Newfoundland, to the New- York Committee
of Safety. Hatred of the People there towards
the Americans, for their opposition to the Bri-
tish Government ; yet, if they are short of
Provisions, they will probably petition the
Continental Congress for a supply of Bread
and Flour, ------

30, Declaration of John Nutting and others, of their
reasons for signing the Address to Governour
Hutchinson, declared satisfactory by the Com-
mittee of Salem, -

30, Letter from Joshua Upham to the Committee of
Correspondence for the Town of Brownfield:
explanation of his conduct; voted satisfactory
by the Committee, - - - - -

30, Letter from the Committee of Safety of Massachu-

setts to the Town of Sudbury. Have examin-
ed and dismissed Ezra Taylor, -

30 Letter from the Selectmen of Hopkinton to the
Massachusetts Congress, - - - -

29, Letter from General Ward to the Committee for
Salem. Expects an attack this night from
the British Forces in Boston, -

31, Letter from London to a Gentleman in Philadel-

phia. Account of the defeat of the British
Troops on the 19th of April has been receiv-
ed. The intelligence has panick-struck the
Administration and their Tory dependants,
who have daily denounced the Americans as
cowards, -------

31, Committee for Mecklenburgh County, North-
Carolina. Resolutions declaring all Laws and
Commissions derived from the authority of the
King or Parliament null and void, and the
Civil Constitutions of the Colonies wholly sus-
pended, and that no Legislative or Executive
power exists in the Colonies, other than the
Provincial Congresses, under the direction of
the Continental Congress, - - - -

20, The Declaration of Independence by the Citizens
of Mecklenburgh County, North-Carolina, on
the twentieth day of May, 177.3, with the ac-
companying Documents, published by the Go-
vernour, under the authority and direction of
the General Assembly of North-Carolina,
(Note,)

848
848

849

849

- 850

1264

850

851

852

852

853

853

854

854

855

L.XXV1I

1775.

Ma i/3l

CONTENTS.

LXXVIII

.Association recommended by the Committee of
Chester County, Pennsylvania, to the People
of the County, .... - 859

31, Letter addressed to Lord Sandwich, on his charge

of Cowardice against the Americans, - - 861

31, Letter from Col. George Washington to George
William Fairfax, in England, with an acount
of the Engagement between the Ministerial
Troops and the People of Massachusetts-Bay, 865

31, Letter from Col. Henshaw to Benedict Arnold.
Connecticut has ordered Colonel Hininan to
take command at Ticonderoga, with one thou-
sand Men, and to repair and defend that Post, 724

31, Worcester, Massachusetts, Convention, appoint a
Committee to draw up a Remonstrance to the
Provincial Congress, against persons having
seats there who do not vote away their own
money for publick purposes, in common with
others; and also to consider the right of per-
sons inimical to the Country to vote in Town-
Meetings, ------ 865

31, Representation of Robert Temple to the Massa-
chusetts Committee of Safety, ... 866

31, Letter from Stephen Nye, at Sandwich, to Na-
thaniel Freeman. Relation of Captain Lind-
sey;s proceedings at the Islands, - - 866

31, Letter from the Selectmen of the Town of Scar-
borough to the Massachusetts Congress. Their
reasons for not choosing a Representative, - 867

31, Letter from the Selectmen of Edgartown to the
Massachusetts Congress. They are firmly
attached to the cause of their Country, yet
the peculiar circumstances in which they are
placed renders it inexpedient for them to elect
a Member to the Congress, ... 867

31, Petition of the Inhabitants of Berwick to the
Massachusetts Congress. The Towns along
the sea-coast are exposed to the ravages of the
enemy, and for want of Arms and Ammuni-
tion, the People cannot defend their Wives and
Children against the King's Troops: they,
therefore, pray for assistance, - 868

31, Letter from the Selectmen of Bedford to the Mas-
sachusetts Congress. The Town 4)38 declined
to send a Member to the Congress, but will
freely comply with all their wise and salutary
measures, ------ 868

31, Letter from the New- Hampshire Congress to
General Ward, requesting Colonel Stark may
be sent to them, ----- 868

31^ Letter from the New-Hampshire Congress to
Colonel Stark, requesting him to repair to
Exeter without loss of time, ... 868

31, Letter from the Portsmouth, New-Hampshire,
Committee, to the Provincial Congress, sug-
gesting measures of defence against an expect-
ed attempt to burn the Town by a British Ship-
of-War, 868

31, Letter from Meshech Weare to the New- Hamp-
shire Congress. Recommending measures of
defence on the Sea-Coast, - - - - 869

31, Captain Winborn Adams to the New- Hampshire
Congress. Waits for the direction of the Con-
gress before he complies with a request from
Portsmouth, to go there and assist in destroy-
ing the Men-of-War in the Harbour, - 869

31, Letter to the New-Hampshire Congress, from
Charles Johnston, Clerk to the Committee
of the Northern Regiment, in the County of
Grafton. Preparations in Canada for invading
the Provinces. Four or five hundred Indians
collected, and Governour Carleton enlisting
Men in Canada. The Inhabitants are in want
of Ammunition, Arms, and assistance, - - 869
June 1, Letter from London to a Gentleman in Water-
town. The Ministry are in great consterna-
tion since the intelligence by Captain Derby.
They wait for General Gage's Despatches, to
determine what they will do, ... 870

1, Letter from London to a Gentleman in New-
York. State of publick opinion in England
on the arrival of the news of the defeat and
retreat of the Detachments under Lord Percy

and Colonel Smith, 870

1, Letter from W. Jones, at Savannah, to the Com-
mittee of Donations, Boston. The unhappy
divisions in Georgia have hitherto prevented
their contributing to the support of the Poor

1775.

June 1

of Boston, but they now send sixty-three bar-
rels of Rice, and one hundred and twenty-two
Pounds sterling, in Specie, and expect soon to
send another token of their regard, - - 871
, Letter from the Independent Company of Albe-
marle, Virginia, to the Williamsburgh Volun-
teers. The landing any armed force in the
Colony will justify opposition, ... 872

Letter from Easton, Pennsylvania, to Richard
Henry Lee. Suggesting offers to be made by
the Continental Congress to the King, for a
reconciliation, ------ 872

Letter from the New- York Congress to their
Delegates in the Continental Congress, trans-
mitting important intelligence just received
from Albany, Watertown, and Hartford. —
They have no Money nor Powder, and can-
not have Money until they receive the direc-
tions of the Congress, who ought to assign the
several quotas of Men and Money to each of
the Colonies, 378

Memorial of John Sparding, living at Ticonde-
roga Landing, to the New-York Congress, - 873

Letter from the New-York Congress to the Sub-
Committee of the City and County of Albany.
New-York being unable to garrison Ticonde-
roga, Crown Point, or Fort George, applied
to the Eastern Colonies for assistance: and
Connecticut has sent one thousand Men there,
under Colonel Hintnan. There is no Powder
in New-York, 1269

Letter from the Camp, near Boston, to a Gentle-
man in New- York. Account of the attack
on the Provincials by the King's Troops at
Noddle-Island and Hog-Island, - - -

Declaration of Alexander Walker, one of the
signers of the Address to Governour Hutchin-
son, - -----

An Address to the Americans. They are called
upon by the providence of God to fight for
their Liberties, ------

Address of the Pastors of the Congregational
Churches of Massachusetts to the Provincial
Congress, ------

Resolution of the Convention of Congregational
Ministers, offering their services to officiate as
Chaplains to the Army, - - - -

Letter from the Selectmen of Lunenburgh to the
Massachusetts Congress, requesting to be ex-
cused from furnishing two half barrels of Pow-
der from their Town stock for the Army, as it
will leave them but thirty pounds for their
own defence, ------ 876

Petition of William Tallman and others, to the
Massachusetts Congress, requesting the Ves-
sels they have fitted out at great expense for
Whaling Voyages, may be permitted to pro-
ceed to sea, ------ 876

Letter from the Massachusetts Congress to Col.
Benedict Arnold, highly approving the ac-
quisitions he has made at Ticonderoga, Crown
Point, on the Lake, &c. ; they regret his re-
peated requests to send some one to succeed
him in the command, and request him to con-
tinue until New- York or Connecticut shall
take the charge of maintaining the Posts, - 1382

Letter from the Massachusetts Congress to the
New- Hampshire Congress, requesting them to
unite in the defence and security of Ticon-
deroga and Crown Point, - 876

Letter from the Massachusetts Congress to the
Assembly of Connecticut. Maintaining a Post
at Ticonderoga or Crown Point is of the ut-
most importance. New- York does not intend
to dismantle these Posts entirely, but only to
supply from them such Fortifications as may
be erected at the south end of Lake George, - 877

Letter from Governour Trumbull to the Massa-
chusetts Congress. The Provincial Congress
of New- York are desirous to maintain the im-
portant Posts of Ticonderoga and Crown Point,
and Albany will afford their utmost assistance
for securing these Posts for the common de-
fonce, ------- 877

Petition of Joseph Kelly, of Nottingham- West,
to the New-Hampshire Congress, - - 878

I, 'iter from the President of the Continental Con-
gress to the New- York Congress, enclosing

874
875
875
875
876

UCX1X

1775.

CONTENTS.

LXXX

2,

2,

2,

2,

a Resolution of May 31. and requesting their
immediate compliance with it, so far as r>
the famishing Batteaus, ProTiaio—,8*an
:\t Ticonderoga and Crown Point,
June2, An OM Man's Company formed in Reading,
Pennsylvania. It eonwH of eighty Germane,
of the age of forty and upwards. The per-
son who led them at their first assembling
under arms is ninety-seven years of age, -

List of the Committees for the several Districts
in Tryon Countv, New- York, -

Letter from the Committee for Tryon County to
Colonel Guv Johnson. The People have
quietly assembled, signed the General Asso-
ciation, and appointed a Committee. It is their
d> k rmination to do what they can tn save their
Country, and will, if called upon, be the fore-
most to take the field. They request him to
dissuade the Indians from interfering in the
dispute between the Mother Country and the
Colonies, - - - - " " . "

Letter to John Holt, approving of his publishing
and putting his name on the Address against
unlawful Standing Armies, ...

No Standing Army in the British Colonies: or an
Address to the Inhabitants of the Colony of
New- York, against unlawful Standing Armies,

Letter of Robert and John Murray to the New-
York Congress, .....

Memorial of Robert and John Murray to the
New- York Congress, ....

Memorial of Robert and John Murray, Mer-
chants of the City of New- York, to the Con-
tinental Congress, - - -

Papers accompanying the Memorial,

Letter from John Lamb to the New- York Con-
gress, offering his services in the Artillery
Department, ------

Letter from Ethan Allen, at Crown Point, to the
New- York Congress. Importance of the
Posts on Lake Champlain, which have been
taken, and the necessity of retaining them.
With fifteen hundred Men he can take Mon-
treal, and it would be no difficult matter to take
Quebeck ; this object should be accomplished,
though it required ten thousand Men to do it.
If it is thought premature to push an Army
into Canada, he proposes to make a stand at
Isle-au-Noix, ------

Address of the New-York Provincial Congress
to the Inhabitants of the Province of Quebeck,

Letter from the Committee of Albany to the Pro-
vincial Congress of New- York, requesting
them to furnish Provisions, except Flour, for
the thousand Men sent by Governour Trum-
bull to Ticonderoga. They desire full instruc-
tions as to what is expected of them, and also
what disposition to make of the Prisoners taken
at St. John's,

Letter from General Greene to Jacob Greene, -

Petition of the Inhabitants of Georgetown, on
Kennebeck River, to the Massachusetts Con-
gress, for one or two barrels or half-barrels of
Powder, as they have but thirty pounds, and
are in daily expectation of being plundered by
the British armed vessels, - - - .

Letter from Colonel Gridley to the Massachusetts
Committee of Safety, ....

Letter from Nathaniel Shaw, at New- London, to
the New-Hampshire Congress. Has ordered
a large quantity of Powder, but, from its not ar-
riving, fears the Cruisers in the British Chan-
nel, or the negotiations between Great Britain
and the States of Holland, have prevented it,

Letter from the New-Hampshire Congress to
their Delegates in the Continental Congress.
Circumstances appear daily more and more
alarming: the Men-oi- War stop all Provision
Vessels coming to Portsmouth : ArmsandGun-
powder must be procured, if possible, in the
Southern Governments; it is indispensable that
some plan be adopted by the Continental Con-
■ for a Paper Currency, or some other to
in' 1 1 the present urgent necessity,

from the New- Hampshire Congress to the
Continental Congress, remonstrating against
the abandonment of Ticonderoga and Crown
Point, and removing the Cannon to the south
end of Lake George, -

- 1271

878

878

879

- 880

881
- 887

887

888
890

891

- 891

893

2,

2,

2,

2,

2,

1775.
June 2,

1276
894

894
- 894

894

895

895

Letter from the New-Hampshire Congress to
the New- York Congress. The Fortress of
Ticonderoga is important to the welfare of all
the Northern Colonies, and particularly so to
New-Hampshire, where the thoughts of its
demolition casts a damp on the spirits of the
People ; they trust the order for its abandon-
ment will be reconsidered by the Continental
Congress, but are determined to abide by the
determination of that body, ... 895

2, Letter from the Committee of Portsmouth, New-

Hampshire, to the Provincial Congress. Re-
quest the Congress will regulate all future
movements of any bodies of armed men from
one Town to another, .... 896

3, Provincial Congress of South-Carolina earnestly

recommend to their Constituents the promotion

of union and harmony, - - - - 896

3, Association unanimously agreed to in the Provin-
cial Congress of South-Carolina, - - 897

3 Norfolk, Virginia, Committee. Order the imme-
diate return of the Ship Molly, Captain Mitch-
eson, lately arrived from Great Britain, laden
with a large quantity of Goods, in violation of
the Association, ..... 897

3 Letter from the New- York Delegates in the Con-
tinental Congress to the Provincial Congress.
They are much pleased with the New- York
plan for raising Money, but doubt of its being
adopted by the Continental Congress. As Gen-
eral Officers will, in all probability, be appoint-
ed soon, they wish to know who would be most
acceptable to them, to take command of the
Continental Army in the Province, which is
to be maintained at the general charge, - 898

3, Letter from the New- York Congress to the In-
habitants of Tryon County, urging them, for
their own reputations' sake, the love of their
Country, their regard for the welfare of the
whole Continent, and of millions yet unborn,
not to separate from their brethren upon this
momentous occasion, but to unite with the rest
of the Colony, and send Deputies to the Pro-
vincial Congress. Perhaps this will be the
last application, as the time has almost come
when we should be able to know our ene-
mies, ....... 1274

3, Letter from the Congress of New-York to Colo-
nel Guy Johnson. They will discountenance
every attempt against his person and property,
and expect he will not counteract any measures
recommended by the Continental or Provin-
cial Congress, or by the Committees formed,
or to be formed. The dispute has become so
serious that they cannot silently suffer their
plan to be frustrated by their own Countrymen, 1275

3, New- York Committee. Mr. George Folliot de-
clines taking his seat in the Provincial Con-
gress, and Isaac Sears is nominated in his
place, 898

3, Proclamation by Lieutenant-Govemour Colden,
further proroguing the Meeting of the Assem-
bly to the 5th of July next, - - - 899

2, Letter from James Rivington to the New- York

Congress, 899

Letter from the New- York Committee to the
Continental Congress, referring to their decision
in the case of James Rivington, - 899

3, Post-Master and Post-Rider appointed by the

Committee of Providence, Rhode- Island, to be
under their direction until the Assembly of the
Colony, or the Continental Congress, shall
make other regulations and appointments, - 900

3, Letter from the Massachusetts Congress to Henry
Gardner, requiring him to proceed immediate-
ly to sign Bills for the payment of the Troops,
to prevent their returning home, - - - 900

3, Letter from the Committee of the Town of Arun-
del, in Massachusetts, to the Provincial Con-
gress. They have seized a Vessel from Bos-
ton, with a number of the King's Arms on
board, and send the persons and papers seized,
to be disposed of by the Congress, - - 900
Deposition of Samuel Smith, - - - - 901
Orders from William Sheriff", dated Boston,
May 30, to Josiah Jones, to proceed to Wind-
sor, in Nova-Scotia, - - - . - 901
Letter from William Sheriff", dated Boston, May
30, to Day & Scott, at Windsor, Nova-Scotia, 901

LXXXI

1775.

CONTENTS.

lxxxii

903
903

904
904

Letter from William Sheriff, dated Boston, May
29, to Thomas Williams, Storekeeper of Ord-
nance at Annapolis Royal, - 902
June 3, Letter from Loammi Baldwin to the Massachu-
setts Congress, ------ 902

3, Letter from the New- Hampshire Congress to the

Massachusetts Congress. Having undoubted
intelligence of the attempts of the British Min-
istry to engage the Canadians and Indians in
their interest, they have raised and sent three
Companies for the protection of the frontier
settlements, 902

4, Letter from a Gentleman in London to his friend

in Philadelphia. The duplicity of New- York
will ever render them suspected. The many
assurances given to the Ministry by their lead-
ers, justify a suspicion, which the conduct of
some of their Merchants confirms, that they
would adopt any means to break through the
Association, ------

4, Meeting of the Committee of Observation for
Anne Arundel County, Maryland,

4. Letter from Colonel Philip Schuyler to the New-
York Congress. He has been appointed by
the Continental Congress to settle the Accounts
of the People employed in the reduction of
Ticonderoga, ------

4, Letter from Ethan Allen, at present the principal
commander of the Army at Ticonderoga, to
our worthy and respectable countrymen and
friends, the French People of Canada, -

4, Letter from Elbridge Gerry to the Massachu-
setts Delegates in the Continental Congress.
Government is so essential that it cannot be too
soon adopted. Every day's delay will make
the task more arduous. A regular General is
wanted to assist in disciplining the Army; the
pride of the People would prevent their being
led by any General not American, yet Gene-
ral Lee could be of great service. The New-
England Generals would acquiesce in the ap-
pointment of Colonel Washington as Gene-
ralissimo, ------ go6

4, Letter from General Ward and the Chairmen of
the Committees of Safety and Supplies, to the
Continental Congress. The Army at Cam-
bridge is so entirely destitute of Powder that
they are in danger of falling a prey to their
enemies for want of the means of defence;
they earnestly beseech that whatever can be
spared in the other Colonies may be sent for
their relief, - . - - -

4. Letter from Mrs. Bowdoin to the Massachusetts

Congress, enclosing Depositions relating to the
plundering and abuse of the Inhabitants of the
Elizabeth Islands, by Captain Lindsey, of the
Falcon Sloop-of-War, - - - -

Deposition of Elisha Nye, - - - -
Deposition of John Tucker, Jeremiah Robinson,

Elisha Robinson and Ebenezer Meigs, -
Statement of Daniel Eyry, - - - -

5, Political Observations on the Rebellion in

America. Their wealth is the source of their
Rebellion, and the Ministry have wisely begun
to reduce them to reason by lessening it. If
they persist in their Rebellion, all the calami-
ties that arise from it will, in the sight of God
and man, lie at their door, - - - - 909

5, Association entered into at Savannah, in Georgia, 1551

5, Philadelphia Committee, prohibit the landing or
selling of Goods without a certificate from the
Committee whence they are sent, that they were
imported within the rules of the Congress, - 909

5, Letter to General Burgoyne, from a Pennsyl-

vanian, - - - - - - -910

5, Letter from William Duer to the New- York
Congress, representing the Disturbances and
Riots in the New-Hampshire Grants, - - 910

5, Letter from Colonel Guy Johnson to the Com-
mittee for Tryon County, New- York, - - 911

5, Letter from Hartford to a Gentleman in New-
York. Robert Temple, a high-flying Tory,
taken at Plymouth, and sent to Cambridge,
with his papers, - - - - -912

5, Letter from Jain<s Curgenven to Govcrnour
Trumbull, informing him of his appointment
of Collector of the Customs for the Port of
New- Haven, enclosing him a copy of the

Fourth Series. — Vol. ii.

- 906

906
907

908
909

1775.

912
914
914

914
915

Oath of Office he had taken before the Board
of Customs, and requesting to be informed if
he will administer to him the usual Oath taken
by Officers of the Crown, -

June 5, Petition of Soldiers in Captain Drury's Company
to the Massachusetts Congress, - - -
5, Petition of the Captains in Colonel Scammons's
Regiment to the Massachusetts Congress,

5, Town Meeting in Conway, New- Hampshire. —

Committee appointed, and empowered to in-
quire into the conduct of obnoxious persons,
and refugees from other Towns, - - -

6, Address to the Minister. His (Lord North's)

policy has driven the Americans to resistance,

6, Letter from the Committee of Intelligence for
Charlestown, South-Carolina, to the New- York
Congress. The apprehension of a defection in
New- York gave inexpressible anxiety to all
America, and at the same time encouraged the
Ministry to proceed in all their measures; they
are happy to find this apprehension was unjustly
formed, - 1323

6, Committee appointed to receive the signatures of
the Inhabitants of Charlestown to the Asso-
ciation adopted by the Provincial Congress of
South-Carolina, on the 3d instant, - - 915

6, Committee of Chester County, Pennsylvania.
Proceedings on the charge against William
Moore, that he is inimical to the Liberties of
America, ---... 916

6, Letter from the New- York Congress to Govern-
our Trumbull. The supply of Powder in the
Colony is so insufficient that they cannot con-
tribute in the least towards supplying Ticonde-
roga and Crown Point with it, - - - 916

6, Letter from Pierpont Edwards to the New- York
Congress. Request the fullest information of
the measures they have adopted, that he may
communicate them to the Assembly of Con-
necticut, - - - - - - -917

6, Letter from Jacobus Louw to the Ulster County,
New- York, Committee, making concessions
for his opposition to the Resolves of the Con-
tinental Congress, - - - - - 917

6, Meeting of the Committee for the Town of King-
ston, in Ulster County, New- York. Mr. Louw
having made reasonable satisfaction, is recom-
mended as a friend to the rights and liberties of
British America, - - - - - 917

6, Letter from Captain Henry B. Livingston to the

New- York Congress, - - - - 918

6, Meeting of Delegates from the several Towns in

the County of Cumberland, New- York. They
will resist and oppose the acts of Parliament
for raising a Revenue in America, and adopt
the Association entered into at New- York.
They have many brave Soldiers, but nothing
to fight with, and request a supply from the
Congress, ------

Letter from James Easton, at Crown Point, to the
Massachusetts Congress, - - - -

Concession of Silvanus Whitney to the Commit-
tee of Observation for Stamford, Connecticut,

Narrative of the destruction of the Tea, delivered
up by Silvanus Whitney, -

Exchange of Prisoners at Charlestown, -

Declaration by John Prentice, of his reasons for
signing the Address to Governour Hutchinson,

Subscription of One Hundred Pounds, by the
Constitutional Society, London, for the relief of
the Widows and Orphans of those who were
inhumanly murdered by the King's Troops at
Lexington and Concord, in April last, -

The Association of the Provincial Congress of
South-Carolina, signed universally by the In-
habitants of Charlestown ; two persons only
treated it with contempt,

Petition of Michael Hubart to the Committee of
Correspondence at Charlestown, complaining
of his treatment by Laughlin Martin and John
Dealy, ------

Account of the punishment of Martin and Dea
ly,(Note,) - - - - - -

7, Letter from North-Carolma to a Gentleman in
New- York. The Governour has sent his
family to New- York, and has taken up his
residence in Fort Johnston, at the mouth of
Cape-Fear River.

6,
6,

6,

6,

7,

8,

918

919

920

920
920

921

921

- 922

- 922

92o

924

CONTENTS.

- 1037

- 924

925

925
- 925

LXXXIII

1775.

June 7, Meeting of the Governour and Committee of War
lor Connecticut. Fifty barrels of Powder or-
derad to be sent to the American Army before

Boston, -

Masting of the Committee of Worcester County,
Maryland. Acknowledge their allegiance to the
King, an affection for his person, and zeal for
the support of his crown and dignity; will do
all in their power to oppose the detested Mm-
i>t. rial plan lor enslaving their Country, and
will cheerfully contribute to assist their suffer-
ing brethren in Boston, -
7, Dixou Quinton and Thomas Lambden declared
enemies of their Country, by the Worcester,
Maryland, Committee, -
7, Delaware Assembly declare they will be charge-
able with their share of the expense incurred
in the defence of the lives and liberties of the
People of the Twelve United Colonies, and of
the Parish of St. John's, in Georgia, -
7, Letter from General Charles Lee to General
Burgoyne, .....

7, Philadelphia Committee examine the complaint
against Captain Robert Torrans, for having
imported and sold some Irish Linens about the
first of May last, and resolve that he has wil-
fully and knowingly violated the Continental
Association, ...... 928

7, Letter from the New- York Congress to their
Delegates in the Continental Congress, enclos-
ing the Report of a Committee appointed on
erecting Fortifications at King's Bridge. The
ground is so irregular on the Northern part
of Manhattan Island that no Fortifications can
be constructed there so as to be tenable for any
length of time. No part of the Island is
adapted for a Magazine or place of Arms, with
an enemy superiour in the field, and with the
command of both Rivers, - - - - 1278

7, Letter from the New- York Congress to the Com-
mittee of Albany. Highly approve of their
zeal and activity in raising Troops, but request
them to proceed no further without orders ; the
two Companies raised may be sent to Ticon-
deroga. The Prisoners taken at St. John's
should remain at liberty, and be supported out
of the Colony Provisions, - - - - 1280

7, Letter from the New- York Congress to their
Delegates in the Continental Congress ; calling
their attention to the necessity of immediately
providing Money, without which it will be im-
possible to comply with their further requests.
Their attention is particularly called to the
situation of New- York, with respect to the
Indians on their Northern Frontiers, whom
policy will teach the British Ministry to set
upon them, that they may be driven for protec-
tion to embrace their terms of slavery; this
evil may be remedied by the appointment of a
Continental Superintendent of Indian affairs,
instead of leaving the management of Indian
affairs in the hands of Crown Officers. The
appointment of a General is left to the wisdom
of the Continental Congress, - • - - 1281
7, Letter from the New- York Congress to their
Delegates in the Continental Congress, re-
commending Colonel Philip Schuyler and
Captain Richard Montgomery to the offices
of Major and Brigadier-General, - - 1282

7, Letter from the New- York Congress to the Mas-
sachusetts Committee of Safety. They are
fully aware of the dangerous consequences
that await them, either from supineness, or a
confidence in the honour of the avowed instru-
ments of Ministerial vengeance, ...
7, Petition o( Donald McL-od, late from Scotland,
to the New- York Committee, asking for a
Commission, ---...
7, Letter from Benjamin Lindsay to the New- York
Committee, asking permission to take on board
a parcel of Flour for the Poor of Boston, -
7, Application of the Selectmen of the Town of
Lancaster to the Massachusetts Congn B8, to
know what shall be done wilh the Estates of
those who have gone to General Gage,
7, Letter from Committee of Belfast, &c , to the Mas-
"cl j "ugress, representing the defence-

less condition of the Towns they represent, - 930

LXXXIV

1775.
June 7,

8,

1,

8,

928

929

929

930

9,

Petition of Davis and Coverly to the Massachu-
setts Congress, - - - - -
Hanover, Virginia, Volunteers, declare they will
risk their lives to aid and assist in protecting
the Libei lies of their Country, and approve of
the reprisals on the King's property for the
Powder taken by Lord Dunmore,

Three Battalions of the City and Liberties of
Philadelphia, the Artillery Company, a Troop
of Light- Horse, several Companies of Light-
Infantry, Rangers, and Riflemen, in all above
two thousand Men, reviewed by the Members
of the Continental Congress, ...

Letter from Abraham Clark, of Elizabethtown,
New-Jersey, to the New- York Congress.
Forward six quarter casks and two half bar-
rels of Gunpowder, to be sent on to the Camp
near Boston, ------

Letter from the New- York Congress to the Con-
tinental Congress, enclosing a Letter from
General Ward, Joseph Warren, and Moses
Gill, dated Camp, June 4, 1775, - - -

Letter to the Provincial Congress of New- York,
from General Ward, Dr. Warren President
of the Committee of Safety, and Moses Gill
Chairman of the Committee of Supplies, of
Massachusetts, informing them of their dis-
tressed condition for want of Powder, and
urging them in the strongest terms to assist
them with a supply, - - - -

Petition of Donald McLeod, late from Scotland :
can raise a Company of Scottish Highland-
ers, to enter the service of the Colonies, and
requests an answer to his application for a
Commission, -----

New- York Committee. Isaac Sears elected a
Deputy to the Provincial Congress, in place of
George Folliot. Committee appointed to ex-
amine the cargo of any Vessel which arrives,
suspected of having on board Goods not ad-
missible, -------

Meeting of Freeholders of Brookhaven, in Suf-
folk County, New- York, choose a Committee
of Observation, -

Letter from the Committee of Cumberland Coun-
ty, New- York, to the Provincial Congress.
Will support all the American measures in
opposition to the arbitrary, tyrannick, and san-
guinary measures of the British Parliament,

Petition of the Senior Class of Rhode-Island
College to the President, -

Answer of the President to the Petition of the
Senior Class, ------

Letter from Governour Trumbull to the Massa-
chusetts Congress, -----

Letter from the Massachusetts Congress to Cap-
tain Solomon Uhhaunnauwaunmut, Chief Sa-
chem of the Moheakonnuck Tribe of Indians,
at Stockbridge, -----

Letter from the Portsmouth, New-Hampshire,
Committee, to the Provincial Congress,

Committee appointed by the New-Hampshire
Congress to demand of George Jaffrey, Trea-
surer of the Colony, the Money in his hands,

The Provincial Congress of South-Carolina have
determined to raise two Regiments of Foot
and one of Horse immediately, and to put the
Militia on a respectable footing, - - .

Volunteer Company of Lancaster County, Vir-
ginia. Thank Captain Patrick Henry for his
spirited conduct in the late expedition, and will
defend him and the Delegates, and all other
friends to America, whom the abandoned tools
of Administration may dare to attack, -

Letter from the New- York Congress to the
Commander-in-Chief, at Ticonderoga, -

Letter from the New- York Congress to the Com-
missioners at Albany, appointed to superintend
the removal of the Stores from Ticonderoga, -

Letter from William Williams, Benjamin Waite,
and Joab Hoisington, to the New- York Con-
gress, requesting to be appointed Field-Offi-
cers, - - ...

Letter from Ethan Allen to the Massachusetts
Congress. Two or three thousand Men, con-
ducted by intrepid commanders, would at this
juncture make a conquest of Canada. Such
a plan would make a diversion in favour of the

931

931

931

- 931

931

- 932

i

a

- 932

933

933

934
935
936
936

937
937

937

938

938
1288

1188
938

I.XXXV

1775.

CONTENTS.

LXXXVI

Massachusetts-Bay, who have been too much
burdened with a calamity that should be more

general, 939

June 9, Proclamation by General Guy Carleton, Go-
vernour of the Province of Quebeck. Rebels
from the neighbouring Colonies, having' made
incursions into the Province, making prisoners
of a number of His Majesty's Troops, and are
at present invading the Province in a traitor-
ous manner, it is necessary to suspend the
ordinary course of civil law, and martial law
will henceforth be executed throughout the
Province, .--.-. 940

9, Letter from the Reverend Samuel Kirkland, Mis-
sionary among the Oneida Indians, to the Com-
mittee of Albany. Colonel Johnson has orders
from Government to remove the dissenting
Missionaries from the Six Nations, till the
difficulties between Great Britain and the Co-
lonies are settled : he has forbid Mr, Kirkland
to speak one word to the Indians, and threat-
ened him with imprisonment if he transgresses,
because he translated the proceedings of the
Continental Congress for the Indians, at their
request, 1310

9, Letter from Governour Trumbull to the Conti-
nental Congress. Has made provision for
the defence of Ticonderoga ; Col. Hinman is
appointed to the command of the Troops there,
consisting of one thousand Men from Connec-
ticut, well armed, and furnished with one pound
of Powder and three pounds of Ball to each
man, .-..-..

9, Letter from Abiathar Angell to the Massachu-

setts Congress, ------

Petition and Remonstrance of Abiathar Angell,
of Lanesborough, in the County of Berkshire,
to the Massachusetts Congress, -

9, Letter from John Lane, at Fort Pownall, to the
Massachusetts Congress, -
Journal of John Lane, from Watertown to Pe-
nobscot, to treat with the Eastern Indians,

9, Letter from Elisha Hewes, dated at Penobscot
River, to the Massachusetts Congress, -

9, Letter from Joseph Hawley to Joseph Warren.

Urges reasons why the Posts on Lake Cham-
plain should not be abandoned, but should be
maintained at all events, .... 944
10, Account of what passed on the 19th of April last,
between a Detachment of the King's Troops,
in the Province of Massachusetts-Bay, and
several parties of the Rebel Provincials, pub-
lished officially in the London Gazette, - 945

Return by General Gage of the Commissioned

and Non-Commissioned Officers, Rank and

File, Killed, Wounded, Prisoners and Missing,

on the 19th of April, 1775, - - - 946

1 2, Remarks on the Gazette account of the Action

of the 19th of April, - - - - 947

Strictures on the Gazette account of the Action
between the Provincials and the Regulars, near
Boston, 948

Address to the People of England, on the Ga-
zette account of the Attack of His Majesty's
Troops on the Provincials in Massachusetts, - 952

10, Letter from Falmouth, in England, to a Gentle-

man in Philadelphia. The hostilities com-
menced in America, between the King's
Troops and the Provincials, will be attend-
ed with fatal consequences to both parties, - 953

10, Officers of the First and Second Regiments of

Infantry, and of the Regiment of Horse
Rangers, appointed by Provincial Congress
of South-Carolina, 953

10, Letter from John Hancock, President, to the New-
York Congress, enclosing a Resolution re-
questing them to purchase and forward to the
Army at Boston, with the utmost expedition
and secrecy, five thousand barrels of Flour, - 954

10, Letter to the New- York Congress, from their
Delegates in the Continental Congress. The
emission of Paper Money will be discussed
on the 12th. Indian affairs, which are of the
highest importance to New- York, will be duly
considered by the Congress. The Indians will
not be disposed to engage in our unhappy quar-
ri-'l, unless deceived by misrepresentations; and
this, with care on our part, can be prevented, - 954

1775.
June I

10,
10,

10,

10,

10,

10,

10,

940

10,

941

10,

941

942

942
943

11,
11,

12,

12,
12,

12,

12,
12,

12,
12,

12
12

0, Letter from President Hancock to the Massachu-
setts Congress, enclosing a Resolution of the
Congress advising the assumption of Civil
Government by Massachusetts, Gen. Gage
having levied War against His Majesty's
peaceable Subjects of that Colony, - - 955

Letter from Thomas Cushing to Elbridge Gerry, 955

Letter from Robert Treat Paine to Elbridge
Gerry, 956

Letter from President Hancock to the New-
Hampshire Congress, enclosing Resolutions
of the Congress of this day, ... 956

Letter from the New- York Congress to their
Delegates in the Continental Congress. A
Vessel, suspected of having on board Provi-
sions for the British Army at Boston, has been
detained to get the opinion of the Continental
Congress whether she should be permitted to
proceed, --..... 956

Letter from the New- York Congress to Govern-
our Trumbull. Have procured six hundred
and fifty pounds of Powder from New-Jersey
for Massachusetts, which will be forwarded
immediately, ----.- 957

Letter from Robert Boyd to the New- York Con-
gress, informing them he can make Muskets,
and requesting an advance of one hundred
Pounds, to provide the necessary Machinery, 957

Letter from the Officers at Crown Point and Ti-
conderoga to the Continental Congress. Re-
commend Ethan Allen, Seth Warner and Re-
member Baker for appointments, - - 958

Letter from Elisha Hewes, at Fort Pownall, to
the Massachusetts Congress, ... 958

Letter from the Committee of Conway, New-
Hampshire, to Matthew Thornton. All the
young men are enlisted in the Army. The
old men are not able to carry on forming :
they are in want of Arms and Ammunition,
and, expecting an attack from the Indians,
apply to the Provincial Congress for assist-
ance, - - - - - - - 958

Tryon County, New- York, Committee, appoint

Delegates to the Provincial Congress, - - 959

Letter from the Massachusetts Congress to the
Continental Congress. The embarrassments
in executing every undertaking are so many
that they cannot be enumerated. This is
chiefly to be attributed to the want of a Civil
Government : on which the immediate advice
of the Congress is requested, ... 959

Letter from London to a Gentleman in Virginia.
Since the confirmation of the news brought
by Captain Derby, the Americans bear the
greatest applause here of any people in the
world, 960

Address to the People of England, on the Dis-
turbances in America, - - - - 961

Provincial Congress of South-Carolina. Resolve
that any person who refuses obedience to the
authority of the Congress shall be advertised
as an enemy to the Liberties of America, and
an object of the resentment of the Publick, - 962

Some Thoughts on the Constitution of the Bri-
tish Empire and the Controversy between
Great Britain and the American Colonies, - 962

Letter from the New- York Congress to the Mer-
chants of Canada, ..... 1294

New- York Committee. Direct the removal of
some Soldiers' Wives and their Children, in-
fected with the Small-Pox, out of the City, - 966

Letter from the Committees of the Precincts of
New-Marlborough, New- Windsor and New-
burgh, in Ulster County, New- York, to the
Provincial Congress, .... 966

Letter from Alexander McDougall to the Massa-
chusetts Congress. Some Powder has been
obtained, which will be forwarded this night,
accompanied by a Guard. They are directed
to travel always in the night, and to put up
in the day; to avoid any parade on the road
which might lead to a conclusion that the
Powder is much wanted by the Army, - 966

Letter from Alexander McDougall to Joseph
Warren, - - .... 967

Letter from Alexander McDougall to the Com-
mittee for Greenwich, Connecticut, requesting
them to forward the Powder, ... 967

L.XXXVII

Junel-2, Official notice of advices received by the Earl of
] i.irtmoulh, from QeB. ( tage, to this date,

12, Letter from General Que to the Earl e# Dart-
mouth. A plan for a R> bellion has been long
conceived, and the People's minds riprwd for
it.

12, Proclamation by General Gage, declaring the
Province of Massachusetts-Bay in a state of
actual Rebellion, offering pardon to all who lay
down their Arms, excepting only from the
benefit of pardon Samuel Adams and John
Hancock; suspending the Civil Law, and es-
tablishing Martial Law throughout the Pro
vince, ------

12, Letter from the Massachusetts Congress to the
Continental Congress. Taking and keeping
possession of Ticonderoga was necessary for
the preservation of the Liberties of America ;
but in so doing there was no intention to dis-
turb the People of Canada ; and they request
that means may be taken to remove the false
impressions made upon the minds of the Cana-
dians on this subject, -

12, Memorial of Henry Howell Williams to the Mas-
sachusetts Congress, setting forth the losses he
has sustained from a number of armed Troops,
commonly called Provincials, on Noddle- Island
and Hog- Island, in Boston-Bay, and praying
relief, -------

12, Declaration of John Worthington to Committee
for Springfield, Massachusetts, of his determi-
nation to support the measures of the Conti-
nental Congress, and of his willingness to de-
fend the Rights and Liberties of America,

12, Committee for Springfield, in Massachusetts. —
Recommend John Worthington to the favour-
able opinion of the Publick, and to the treat-
ment and respect due to a friend to the Country,

12, Acknowledgment of Timothy Brown, of Tewks-
bury, suspected as an enemy to his Country,

1 2, Committees for Chelmsford, Billerica and Tewks-
bury. Satisfied with Timothy Brown's Ac-
knowledgment, .....

12, Petition of the Town of Kittery to the Massa-
chusetts Congress. Their supplies of Provi-
sions are cut off, and their Town is threatened
to be beat down by the Captains of the Scar-
borough and the Canceaux Men-of-War;
being reduced to the alternative, either to fight
or perish by famine, they choose the first, and
request supplies of Powder and Ball, -

12, Letter from Elisha Phelps to the Massachusetts
Committee of Safety, -----

12, Letter from Newfoundland to a Gentleman in

New- York. The People are suffering for
bread ; they curse New- York, which was the
only place they depended on for assistance in
subjugating the Americans ; and propose the
most inhuman procedures if any of the Con-
tinental Congress should fall into their hands,

13, Letter from Governour Martin of North-Caro-

lina, to Henry White of New- York ; requests
him to send a Royal Standard, and Furniture
for a Colonel's Tent, -

13, Letter from one of the Virginia Delegates in the
Continental Congress to a friend in Williams-
burgh. Colonel Skene has just arrived from
London, charged with a power from the Ad-
ministration to influence the Members of Con-
gress, by arguments drawn on the Treasury.
He has been made a Prisoner, and is on his
parole, to remain within eight miles of Phila-
delphia, ---....

8, Letter from D. Cross, of Glasgow, in Scotland,
to James Dunlop, Merchant, Port- Royal, Vir-
ginia, ----...

13, Letter from D. Cross to James Dunlop and Pa-
trick Kenniin, Merchants, on Rappahannock,
Virginia, -------

13, Letter from Baltimore to a Gentleman in Vir-
ginia. Lord lHuimore left Williainsburgh,
and went on board a Man-of-War, on Friday,
the 8th instant, and refused to return on an in-
vitation from the Ass ■ mbly,

13, Lett.r from the New- Yoik Congress to their
Delegates in the < Ogress, en-

ing a Report of a Committee appointed to
examine the Highlands. -

CONTENTS.

LXXXV11I

968

9G8

- 968

970

971

971

972

972

972

972
973

973

974

974

975

975

97C

975

177...

June 13, Letter from Benedict Arnold, Crown Point, to
the Continental Congress. Has learned from
a Messenger he sent among the Indians, that
they are determined not to assist the King's
Troops. Governour Carleton has not suc-
ceeded in raising more than twenty Canadians;
if the Congress think proper to take posses-
sion of Montreal and Quebeck, it can be done
with two thousand Men; it would be more
advantageous to take and keep possession of
Quebeck than to rebuild Ticonderoga, - - 976

13, Letter from Benedict Arnold to Governour

Trumbull, 977

13, Letter from John Palmer, Quartermaster Gene-
ral, to the Massachusetts Committee of Safety, 978

13, Letter from the Massachusetts Congress to the
New- York Congress; informing them that
they have requested the Continental Congress
to quiet the apprehensions of the Canadians,
that hostile preparations are making against
them in some of the Colonies; and to coun-
teract the evil effects of the malevolent misrep-
resentations of Colonel Guy Johnson to the
Six Nations, 1319

13, Instructions of the Massachusetts Congress to
Walter Spooner, Jedediah Foster, and James
Sullivan, a Committee appointed to proceed to
Ticonderoga and Crown Point, by the road
through the new settlements called the New-
Hampshire Grants; giving them full power to
do every thing in behalf of Massachusetts, for
the effectual securing and maintaining those
Posts, which they shall judge necessary, - 1408

13, Petition of Lemuel Prescott, of Boston, to the

Massachusetts Congress, - - - - 978

13, Letter from the New-Hampshire Committee of

Safety to the Massachusetts Congress, - - 979

14, Letter from the Committee of Safety for New-

Hampshire to the Committee of Conway.
They have sent twenty-five pounds of Pow-
der; can spare no more, and can supply no
Arms, ---..--- 979

14, Letter from one of the Virginia Delegates in
Congress to his friend in Williamsburgh.
Colonel Washington has been pressed to take
supreme command of the American Troops
at Roxbury, and will probably accept the ap-
pointment. Ten thousand Men will be kept
up in Massachusetts, and five thousand in
New- York, at the expense of the Continent, - 979

14, Address to the Inhabitants of New-Jersey, - 980

14, Letter from William Duer to the New- York

Congress, - - - - - -981

14, Letter from William Goddard to the New- York
Congress, enclosing papers which are explana-
tory of a design formed by the friends of Free-
dom for annihilating the old Parliamentary
and Ministerial Post-Office in this Country, - 981
Papers from Massachusetts, Rhode-Island and
Connecticut, approving of the plan for estab-
lishing a Post-Office, 982

14, Letter from the New- York Congress to the Con-
tinental Congress, enclosing a copy of the
Resolution directing the purchase of Flour for
the Army, 983

14, Letter from the New-York Congress to their
Delegates in the Continental Congress, com-
municating information just received of the
sailing of Troops from Ireland for Boston and

New- York, 984

Information given by Captain Thompson to the
New- York Congress of the embarkation of
Troops for America, ----- 984

14, Letter from the New- York Congress to General
Wooster, requesting him to take charge of
Angus McDonald, ..... 1299

14, Letter from M. S. Mumford to Jonathan Trum-
bull, Jun. A ship from London, with Major
Skene and a quantity of Arms, arrived at Phi-
ladelphia, have been secured by the Congress, 985

14, Letter from Governour Cooke to Captain Wal-
lace, of His Majesty's Ship Rose, at Newport.
Remonstrating against his interrupting the
People of Rhode-Island in their lawful Trade,
and seizing their persons and property; de-
mands his reasons for doing so. and also de-
mands the immediate return of the Vessels he
lias taken, , 985

LXXXIX

177 5.

June 1 4, Letter from Capt. Wallace to Governour Cooke.
Supposes he writes in behalf of some body of
People, and desires to know whether or not
Governour Cooke, or the People for whom he
writes, are not in open Rebellion against their
lawful Sovereign, ----- 986

1 4, Letter from the Newport, Rhode- Island, Commit-
tee, to the Committee for East- Hampton, New-
York, 986

14, Letter from the Committee of Falmouth to the
Massachusetts Congress. No provision hav-
ing been made for the support of the Men en-
listed to guard the Sea-Coasts, they cannot con-
tinue to do duty. Four Indian Chiefs have
arrived at Falmouth, with Captain Lane, from
the Penobscot Tribe, 986

14, Letter from Josiah Jones and Jonathan Hicks to

the Massachusetts Congress, - - - 988

14, Letter from the Machias Committee to the Mas-

sachusetts Congress. Account of the capture
at that place of two Sloops and a British
Tender, 988

15, Appeal to the Publick, by Charles Gordon, of

Cecil County, Maryland, against a publication
by the Committee for Charlcstown Hundred, - 990
Reply of the Committee, .... 990

Proceedings of the Committee of Cecil County,
at Elk- Ferry, on the 24th of May, 1775, in re-
lation to Charles Gordon, who is declared an
enemy to his Country, - '- - - 991

1 5, " Memento" to Lord North, - 992

15, Address of Montford Browne, Governour of the
Bahama Islands, inviting settlements in Louisi-
ana and Mississippi, ----- 992
Governour Browne's reasons, as presented to the
King, for an immediate Civil Government in
the British Dominions adjoining to the River
Mississippi, in North America, - - - 993

15, Letter from President Hancock to the Massachu-
setts Congress, ------ 1000

15, Letter from the New- York Congress to General
Wooster, enclosing a Resolution requesting
him to march with his Troops from Connecti-
cut, to the distance of five miles from the City,
to be subject to the orders of the Continental
Congress, - - - - - -

15, Letter from Adonijah Strong to the Albany Com-
mittee, -------

15, Letter from General Wooster, at Greenwich,
Connecticut, to the New- York Congress. He
has received and will secure Angus McDon-
ald. Regrets they have to send their Prisoners
so far, and would be much better pleased to re-
ceive them nearer the City, especially as four
Regiments from Ireland are expected so soon,

15, Letter from General Wooster to Governour
Trumbull, requests he may be ordered to New-
York, -

1 4, Letter from Isaac Sears to General Wooster, in-

forming him of a motion made in the Provin-
cial Congress to ask him to march there with
his Troops, ------

15, Answer to a Speech sent by the Stockbridge

Indians to the Cau«hnawagas, or Canadian
Tribes of Indians, near Montreal,

15, Letter from General Ward to the Worcester,
Massachusetts, Committee, enclosing an Order
for the removal of Samuel Murray from the
Jail in Worcester to his father in Rutland,

15, Letter from the Massachusetts Congress to the
New-Hampshire Congress, -

15, Letter from William Stoddard, Boston, to Capt.
James Littlefield, Watertown, -

15, " Sydney" to the Soldiers and Seamen serving in
the British Fleet and Army in America,

15, Letter from the Rev. Samuel Langdon to the
Massachusetts Congress, ...

15, Ijetter to Dr. Joseph Warren, President of the
Massachusetts Congress. Hf commending the
employment by the Colony of some Armed
Vessels, to protect their Towns and Coasting
Trade from British Vessels-of-War, - - 1005

1 5, Letter from the Committee of Correspondence of
Falmouth to the Massachusetts Congress —
Mr. Lane is on his way to Watertown, with
four Indian Chiefs of the Penobscot Tribe, - 1005

15, Letter from Colonel Reid to the New-Hampshire

< ■immiltee of Safety, .... 1005

CONTENTS.

1775.

June i

14,

16,

16,
16,

16,

16,

16,
16,
16,

17,

17,

17,

17,

1000

1000

17,

1001

17,
17,

1001

17,

1002

17,

1002

1003

17,

1003

1003

17,

1004

1004

17,

18,

!, Letter from Colonel Reid to the New-Hampshire
Committee of Safety, recommending Andrew
Colburn for an appointment, ...

Services done by Andrew Colburn in the last

^ War,

Colonel James Reid's Regimental Orders for the
New-Hampshire Troops under his command,

Letter from Joseph Habersham to Philotheos
Chiffelle. Efforts of Mr. Stuart and Mr. Cam-
eron to engage the Southern Indians on the
side of the British Government,

Letter from a Pennsylvanian to Gen. Burgoyne,

Account of the Province Stores at Albany, New-
York,

Letter from General Wooster to Governour
Trumbull, requesting his instructions about
complying with the request from New-York
to march his Troops there, and place them
under the direction of the Continental Con-
gress, -------

Letter from an Officer in the Navy at Boston to
his friend in England. Sixteen of the Trans-
ports ordered from England to New- York are,
by the General, ordered to Boston. Expects
to hear of bloody work soon, as the Troops
are determined to lay the Country waste as
they go, with Fire and Sword, - - -

Proclamation by the Provincial Congress of Mas-
sachusetts, ......

Petition of the Selectmen of Edgartown to the
Massachusetts Congress, -

Letter from Colonel Israel Oilman to the New-
Hampshire Congress. The Regulars are ex-
pected soon to make a push for Bunker's Hill
or Dorchester Neck, ....

Address to the People of England, ...

Provincial Congress of South-Carolina direct the
election of a new Congress, . - -

To the Committee of the City of Philadelphia.
Calling their attention to the injury that may
be done, if the Officer lately arrived from the
Army in Boston, and says he has sold out,
should prove to be a Spy for General Gage, -

Letter from James Duane to the New- York Con-
gress. The Continental Congress has ordered
an emission of Two Millions of Dollars, in
Paper Currency. Have agreed to raise, at the
Continental expense, a body of fifteen thousand
Men, and have appointed Col. George Wash-
ington Captain-General of all the Forces raised
and to be raised in the common cause, -

Letter from the New- York Congress to their Del-
egates in the Continental Congress,

Letter from the New- York Congress to General
Wooster, .-----.

Meeting of the Governour and Committee of
War for Connecticut, ....

Letter from General Wooster to the New- York
Congress. Has sent their Letter of the 15th
to the Governour, and holds himself in readi-
ness to march as soon as he receives the Gov-
ernour's orders, - - - - -

Letter from the Committee of Supplies to the
Committee of Safety of Massachusetts. Ex-
clusive of thirty-six half barrels of Powder
received from Connecticut, there are only in
the Magazine twenty-seven half barrels,

Letter from the Committee for Machias to the
Massachusetts Congress. Both of Captain
Jones's Sloops, taken with the Margaretta,
one of the King's Tenders, were in the King's
service, -------

Account of an Engagement at Charlestown, in
Massachusetts, between about three thousand
of the King's Regular Forces and about half
that number of Provincials, on Saturday, the
17th of June, 1775, ... -

Letter from Governour Wentworth, at Castle
William and Mary, in Portsmouth Harbour,
to Theodore Atkinson. Captain Barclay has
seized a Vessel from Newbury, Massachusetts,
for breach of Acts cf Trade, and directs that
she may be forthwith libelled in the Court of
Admiralty, . - - - -

Letter from President Hancock to Elbridge Ger-
ry. Colonel Washington is appointed Com-
mander-in-Chief of the Continental Army, and
he will depart in a few days for Cambridge.

XC

1006
1006
1007

1007
1008

1009

1010

1010
1011
1013

1013
1013

1016

1016

1016
1017
1304
1037

1306

- 1017
1017

- 1018

- 1019

1775.

CONTENTS.

xcn

18,

17,

18,

18,

18,
18,

18,

19,

19,
19,

19,
19,
19,

19.
19,

19,
19,

19,
19,

19.

Ten Companies of Riflemen, from Pennsylva-
M iryland, and Virginia, are ordered' im-
mediately to proceed id your Army,

from John Adams to Elbndge Gerry,
era) Washington has been chosen Com-
mand, i-iu-t "hi- 1, I tenant] Ward First Major-
General, and General Lee Second, and Majoi
( lakes Adjutant-General. The virtuous attach-
menl of our countrymen to their own officers
presented sn objection to the appointment of
and ( iates, which was overcome by the
earnest ay sire of General Washington to have
their assistance, -

( Seneral Wooetar to the New- York Congress, -

Letter from General Wooster to Governour
Trumbull, enclosing a Letter, dated yesterday,
from New- York, -

Letter from the New- York Congress to General
Wooster, informing him of the change in the
destination of the Troops; a Ship-of-War is
off Sandy Hook, to direct the Transports to
proceed to Boston, -----

Letter from an Officer of the British Army at
Boston to a Gentleman in London. Account
of the Battle of Bunker's Hill; the Provincials
were defeated, but the victory has cost us very
dear, and we do not enjoy one solid benefit
from it; we have learned one melancholy
truth, which is, that the Americans, if equally
well commanded, are as good Soldiers as ours,

Letter from General Thomas to the Massachu-
setts Congress, recommending the appointment
of an Adjutant and Quartermaster-General, -

Letter from the Massachusetts Committee of Sup-
plies to the Committee of Safety, - - -

Circular Letter from the Committee of Supplies
to the several Towns in Massachusetts, urging
them to forward Provisions for the Army,

Letter from Colonel Bartlett to General Folsom,
with intelligence of the Battle yesterday, and
the burning of Chariestown, ...

Meeting of the Committee for the County of
Prince Edward, Virginia. Resolutions on the
seizure of the Powder by Lord Dunmore, and
approving the conduct of Captain Patrick Hen-
ry in making reprisals for it,

Meeting of the Frederick County, Virginia, Com-
mittee. Resolutions on the seizure of the Pow-
der by Lord Dunmore, and the Address from
the Council to the People of Virginia, -

Queen Anne County, Maryland, Committee.
Prohibit the dealing with any Merchant in the
County who does not produce satisfactory evi-
dence that his Goods were imported agreeable
to the Association, -

Letter from Brook Watson to the New- York
Congress, ----..

Meeting of the Governour and Committee of War
for Connecticut, -

Letter from Governour Trumbull to the New-
York Congress. Has ordered seventeen hun-
dred Men, under the command of Major-Gene-
ral Wooster, to march immediately within five
miles of the City of New- York, subject to the
orders of the Continental Congress and Pro-
vincial Congress of New- York, - - -

Letter from Governour Trumbull to the Massa-
chusetts Congress, -

Letter from Governour Trumbull to Benedict
Arnold. The invasion of Canada should be
moved by the Continental Congress; the Army
at Boston, and the prospect of one arriving at
New- York, forbid our thinking of an Expe-
dition to Canada, -

Speech of the Chiefs and Warriors of the Oneida
Tribe of Indians to the four New-England
Provinces, directed to Governour Trumbull -

Town Meeting at Providence, Rhode-Island
Authorize Cartridges to be delivered out to the
Inhabitants, ----..

Providence, Rhode-Island, Packet, seized by the
British, and retaken, near Conanicut, -

Proclamation by General < lage, requiring all the
Inhabitants of Boston to deliver up thAr Fire-
Arms, and declaring all who omit to do so
enemies to His M i jtj 'g Government, -

Lettei irom ( leneral Ward to the Massachusetts
agress,

1019

1019
1306

1020

1020

1021

1021
1022

1022

1022

1023
- 1023

1024
1025
1038

1025
102G

1026

1116

1027
1027

1027
1028

1775.
Junel9, Letter from Joseph Ward to the Massachusetts
Congress, requesting the Troops to be furnish-
ed with Blankets, and Spears or Lances, - 1028
19, Letter from the Massachusetts Committee of Safe-
ty to the Provincial Congress, requesting that
measures may be taken to obtain the names
and places of abode of all who were Killed or
Wounded in the Battle of Lexington, and at
any time since, and of such as may be Killed
or Wounded at any future time, in the contest
between Great Britain and the Colonies, - 1028
Resolution of the Provincial Congress, for carry-
» ing into effect the foregoing request, - - 1028

19, Letter from Colonel John Stark to the New-
Hampshire Congress. Account of the engage-
ment on the 17th instant, .... 1029

19, Letter from James McGregore to the Committee

of Safety of New-Hampshire, ... 1029

20, Arrival of Governour Lord William Campbell

at Chariestown, South-Carolina, - - - 1030

20, Association adopted and signed by the Committees
of the District of Wilmington, in North-Caro-
lina, - - - ' - - - - 1030

20, Meeting of the Committee of Accomack Coun-
ty, Virginia; requiring Masters of all Vessels
bringing Goods for sale to bring certificates
that the Goods were imported agreeable to the
Continental Association, - 1031

20, Letter from General Washington to the Indepen-
dent Companies of Fairfax County, Virginia;
informing them of his appointment to the com-
mand of the Continental Army, - - - 1031

20, Letter from General Washington to John Au-
gustine Washington. Has been chosen to the
command of the Continental Army, by the
partiality of Congress, joined to a political
motive, and will set out to-morrow for Boston, 1031

20, Meeting of the Committee for the new County
proposed to be formed in Delaware, at Broad
Creek : bind themselves and constituents, by
every thing sacred, collectively and separately,
to enforce and carry into execution whatever
measures have or may be recommended, for
the preservation of the Liberties of America, - 10S2

20, Letter from Philadelphia to a Gentleman in Lon-
don. Two propositions which Congress intend
to make to the British Government, - - 1033

20, Letter from Philadelphia to a Gentleman in Lon-
don. Colonel George Washington is, at the
particular request of the People of New-Eng-
land, and with the unanimous consent of Con-
gress, appointed Commander-in-Chief of the
Continental Forces, - - - . . ]033

20, Letter from President Hancock to the New-
Hampshire Congress, enclosing a Resolve
passed yesterday for re-enforcing the Army
before Boston, ----.. 1034

20, Letter from the New-Hampshire Delegates at
Philadelphia to the Provincial Congress. The
greatest unanimity prevails in the Congress,
one and all being determined to defend our
rights to the last, ..... 1035

20, Letter from the New- York Congress to Govern-
our Trumbull, enclosing a Resolution of the
Continental Congress of the 16th instant. A
small supply of Gunpowder has been lately
received, and half a ton of it will be forward-
ed to General Wooster for the Provincial Army
at Boston, 1306

20, Letter from the Provincial Congress of New-
York to General Wooster, in reply to his
Letters of the 1 7th and 1 8th instant, - - 1307

20, Letter from Governour Trumbull to the Conti-
nental Congress. Has sent fifty barrels of
Powder with the greatest secrecy and despatch
to the American Army before Boston, and will
send ten barrels more, which is all that can be
supplied, as none can be obtained in the Colo-
ny, 1035

20, Letter irom a Gentleman in Providence, Rhode-
Island, to his friend in New- York. Account
of the Battle of Bunker's Hill on the 17th
instant, 1036

20, Meeting of the Governour and Committee of

War for Connecticut, .... 1039

20, Letter from the Massachusetts Congress to the
Continental Congress. Account of the Battle
of Bunker's Hill, 1039

xcnr

1775.
June20, Letter from the Massachusetts Congress to Gen-
eral Ward, 1041

20, Petition of the Selectmen of the Town of Town-
shend, in Massachusetts, to the Provincial
Congress. Are out of Powder, and ask for an
order on the Town of Ashby for one of the two
barrels they have, - - - - - 1 04 1
20, Letter from Richard Derby, Jun., to Capt. James

Kirk wood, 1041

20, Report of Edward Bucknam and Seth Wales, to

Colonels Bailey and Hurd, of the information
gained from the Indians on the Canada Fron-
tiers, by two Scouts, sent for that purpose, - 1041

21, Letter from the Secret Committee of South-Caro-

lina to Colonel Moultrie. Furnish him with
Powder for the two Regiments of Infantry.
Recommend to him the greatest caution and
prudence, and to permit no Soldier to stand
sentry over the Powder, but such as are known
friends to the Liberties of America, - - 1042

21, Deputation of the Provincial Congress of South-
Carolina, to present an Address to the Govern-
our, Lord William Campbell, ... 1043
Address and Declaration of the Provincial Con-
gress to the Governour, .... 1043
Answer of the Governour, ... - 1044

21, Provincial Congress of South-Carolina, to testify
their resentment of the base and cruel conduct
of the Inhabitants of Poole, a Seaport in the
English Channel, refuse to hold any commu-
nication with that People, or carry on any
transactions with them, or employ any shipping
belonging to that Port, or to any Inhabitant of
the place, ------ 1044

21, Committee of Observation for Frederick County,
Maryland. Committees of Correspondence
for each District in the County appointed.
Two Companies of Riflemen raised, in com-
pliance with a Resolution of the Continental
Congress; Officers of the Companies appoint-
ed, and their pay established, - - - 1044

21, Letter from the Provincial Congress to the Com-
mittee for the City and County of New- York,
requesting them immediately to purchase all
the Saltpetre in the City and County, and to
inform the Congress what quantity of Brim-
stone and Sulphur may be purchased in the
City, ------- 1310

.21, New- York Committee. Letter received, dated
May 30, from Jonathan Parsons, Jun., New-
foundland, informing of the arrival there of
the Ship Sally, Captain Tavemer, from this
Port, 1046

21, Inquiry by a Committee into facts of Captain

Tavemer' s Voyage, ----- 1046

21, Deposition of Theophilact Bache, that Captain
Tavemer was ordered to proceed directly to
Falmouth, or some other Port in Great Bri-
tain, and that he had no agency in causing the
Ship Sally to stop at Newfoundland, - - 1046

21, Petition of Joseph Johnson, a licensed Preacher
of the Gospel amongst seven different Tribes
of New-England Indians, and the Oneidas, to
the Provincial Congress of New- York, - 1047

21, Letter from a Gentleman in New- York to his
friend in Edinburgh, Scotland. It is a gross ca-
lumny to say we are aiming at Independency.
Our political principles are the same that raised
the House of Hanover to the Throne ; and were
your Ministers to adopt these principles we
would lay down our arms, ... 1047

21, Letter from the Albany, New- York, Committee,
to the Continental Congress. Certain inform-
ation received of the hostile intentions of Go-
vernour Carleton, who was daily giving pre-
sents to Caughuuwaga Indians, they having
agreed to take up the hatchet. The Troops
at Ticonderoga are much in want of Powder.
The Frontier Inhabitants are not half supplied
with Anns or Powder, and they request some
may be forwarded with all the despatch pos-
sible, - - - - - - •- 1048

21. Letter from Captain Chapman, an officer in
General Gage's Army at Boston, to a friend
in Ireland. The Army of the Rebels consists
of at least fifteen thousand, and is daily increas-
ing; the Pulpits and the Publick Meetings
breathe nothing but sedition ; the People are in

CONTENTS.

XtlV

1775.

the most slavish subjection to the Priests and
Demagogues; the Resolves of the Congress
are mostly inflammatory; they have tried and
passed sentence on several who have dared to
contravene their inquisitorial decrees ; their aim
is Independency, - - - - - 1 049
June 21, Petition to the Provincial Congress of Massa-
chusetts from seven Stockbridge Indians, sol-
diers enlisted in the Provincial Army, - - 104'.*
2 1 , Petition of Thomas Twining to the Massachusetts
Congress, in behalf of himself and the Asso-
ciation of Eastham, against Amos Knowles,
a Member of the Congress, who is charged
with being an opposer of the common cause
of the Country; with sundry accompanying

papers, 1050-1055

Report of a Committee on the complaint against
Captain Knowles, not accepted, - 1055

21, Letter from the Reverend Samuel Webster to the

New- Hampshire Committee of Safety, - 1056

22, Provincial Congress of South-Carolina, direct

Absentees to return to the Colony ; and forbid
persons holding Estates to withdraw from its
service, ------- 1056

22, Address to the People of Henrico County, Va., 1056

22, Letter from Samuel Adams to Elbridge Gerry, - 1058

22, Letter from General Charles Lee to Lord Bar-
rington, renouncing his Pay as an Officer in
the British Army, 1058

20, Letter from General Gates to General Washing-
ton, accepting his appointment, - - - 1058

22, Petition of William Elphinston to the New- York

Congress, ------ 1059

22, Letter from Elisha Phelps to the New- York
Congress. Has been appointed by Connecti-
cut Commissary for the Northern Army: has
arrived at Albany, and has been furnished
with no Supplies for the Troops, - - 1059

22, Letter from Weathersfield, in Connecticut, to a
Gentleman in Philadelphia. Account of the
Battle on the 17th instant. The People are
rejoiced to hear of the coming of General
Washington, and will receive him with open
arms, 1060

22, Letter to a Member of the Continental Congress,
from a Gentleman in Stockbridge, Massachu-
setts. Our Messengers to the Six Nations
were taken by the Regulars, carried to Mon-
treal, tried by a Court-Martial, and condemned
to be hanged, and were only released upon the
threatenings of the Indian Sachems to treat
them as enemies if they did not let the prison-
ers go, -

22, Letter from the Committee of Correspondence at
Plymouth to the Committee for Providence, -

22, Letter from General Ward to the Massachusetts
Congress. Thinks it is not proper to order a
Regiment from Roxbury to Cambridge, as re-
quested by the Congress, but if they order it
he will do so, ------ 1061

22, Letter from Benjamin Greenleaf to the Massa-
chusetts Congress. The Committee of Nevv-
buryport are unwilling to give up the little
Powder they have, as requested by the Con-
gress, unless the publick cause renders it abso-
lutely necessary, in which case they will give
up the last ounce, the destruction of their
Town being a trivial matter compared with
a final defeat of the Army, - 1062

22, Letter from Stephen Hooper to the Massachusetts

Congress, - -. - - - - 1062

22, Account of the Engagement on the 1 7th. Charles-
town set on fire by the British, contained about
three hundred Dwelling-Houscs, many of them
large and elegant, besides one hundred and fifty
or two hundred other Buildings, which are
almost all laid in ashes, - 1063

22, Letter from General Folsom to the New-Hamp-

shire Committee of Safety, ... 1063

23, Letter from the Committee for Charles City

County, Virginia, to the Committee and Free-
holders of Buckingham County, in reply to
lli.ir offer of an asylum for their Wives and
Children, if the lower Counties are attacked by
the enemy, - - - - - - 1064

23, Letter from the Albany Committee to the Massa-
chusetts Congress; they have received a vague
and uncertain account of the late Action at

1060
1061

1775.

CONTEiYTS.

xcvi

request to be furnished with a
ol 1 1 1 - Engagement, and

23,

23.

23.

town;
circumetantia
its conn quen

June So. Letter to Mr Holt. The County of Cumber-
land, in New- York, having been represented
as inimical to the bite Continental Congress
and the Provincial I |uested

to publish the Ptf of the General

Committee of that County, in October last. -

1>, of the Committees from a number

of Townships in the County of Cumberland,
held at the County Hall, at Westminster, on
the 19U> and 20th days of October, 1774,
•^3, Letter from Colon- 1 Arnold to the Continental
Congress. The opinion of the Committee
■ by Massachusetts, to inquire into the im-
portance of holding: Ticonderoga and Crown
Point, is, that if the Enemy had possession of
these Fortresses it would place the New-
England Colonies and New-York in the ut-
most danger, ------

Letter from Governour Trumbull to the Conti-
nental Congress, - • - - -

Letter from an Officer on board one of the King's
Ships, at Boston, to a friend in London. The
Engagement on the 17th lasted four hours, and
ended infinitely to our disadvantage. The
Americans, when we landed, so far from retreat-
ing, as we expected, marched towards us with
the greatest coolness and regularity. The
Provincials fought like men who had no care
for their persons, and disputed every inch of
ground, -------

Petition to the Massachusetts Congress, from the
Selectmen, Officers of the Militia, and Com-
mittee of Correspondence of Manchester. The
Town being greatly exposed to their merciless
enemies, they request permission to raise a
Company of Men on the Provincial establish-
ment, to be kept there for their security and
defence, -------

Letter from General Folsom to the New-Hamp-
shire Committee of Safety. Colonel Stark
refuses to be under any subordination to any
person appointed by the Congress of New-
Hampshire to the general command of the
New-Hampshire Troops,

Address of Colonel Bailey to the Northern In-
dians, -------

Meeting of the Livery of London, in Common
Hall. An humble Address, Remonstrance
and Petition to the King on this important
crisis in American affairs, ordered to be pre-
sented to His Majesty, sitting on his Throne,
July 4, Report of the Sheriffs who waited on the King to
know when he would permit the Lord Mayor,
Aldermen and Common Council to wait on
hiin with their Petition. The King refuses to
receive it on the Throne; and the Lord Mayor
refuses to present it to him in any other place.
The Petition ordered to be published, -
June 24, Humble Address, Remonstrance and Petition of
the Lord Mayor, Aldermen and Livery of
London to the King, -----

Letter to General Gage, -

Letter from President Hancock to the New-
York Congress. The Continental Congress
are of opinion that the employing of Green
Mountain Boys would be advantageous to the
common cause; they are requested to embody
them with the Troops raisi d for the defence of
the Northern Frontier, - - - .

Meeting of the General Committee of Observa-
tion (or the County of Burlington, New-Jer-
sey. Association and other Proceedings of the
Provincial Congress at Trenton approved of, -

Letter from < >• m ral Schuyler, New-Brunswick,

■Jersey, to thi irk Congress.

General Washington will be at Newark to-
morrow morning, at nine o'clock, where he
wishes to meet a Deputation of the Provincial
Congress, ---...

Letter from John Hait, Jun , Stamf rd, Connec-
ticut, to Dr. Carrington g an inter-
cepted Letter, dated New- York, June 19th, -
' Brother
in Scotland, giving him an account of the
Haul- with the Rebels on the 17th instant.

- 10G4

1064

- 10G5

23,

23,
24.

24,
24,

•-'4,

24.

24,

24,

1066

1067

1067

1068

- 1069

1070

1070

- 1071

1073
1074

1076

1077

1078

1078

- 1079

- 1080

1080

- 1081

1775.

The chief breastwork of the Provincials was
the strongest post that was ever occupied by
any set of men ; the spirit and bravery the
British Troops exhibited on the occasion is
not to bo surpassed in history. To the great
satisfaction of all good men, Dr. Warren was
slain, ------

June 24, Order by the Massachusetts Congress for ob-
serving Thursday, 13th of July, as a day of
Publick Fasting and Prayer throughout the
Colony, ------

24, Letter from General Ward to the Massachusetts
Congress. Lieutenant Francis Cox, of Salem,
has deserted the service, and told his men they
might go home, for no one had a right to stop
them ; many of the men are gone, and it is
probable others will go, - . - -

24, Letter from General Folsom to the New-Hamp-

shire Committee of Safety, for Cannon for the
Camp at Winter Hill. General Ward, who
has been applied to, cannot supply them,

25, Proposed vindication and offer to Parliament,

drawn up in a Committee of Congress, (by

Dr. Franklin,) 108 1

25, Letter from General Washington to the Ameri-
can Congress. One thousand pounds of Pow-
der were sent from New- York to the camp at
Cambridge, leaving at this time but four bar-
rels in the City of New- York, - - - 1084

25, General Washington's Orders and Instructions
to General Schuyler, appointed to the com-
mand of the Northern Department, - - 1084

25, Letter from General Washington to the Presi-
dent and Members of the Continental Con-
gress, 1085

25, Contradiction of the Statement made by Colonel
Easton to the Massachusetts Congress, on the
17th of May last, of the reduction of Ticon-
deroga, denying to Colonel Easton any partici-
pation in its capture, ----- 1085

25, Letter from Thaddeus Burr to General Wooster,
enclosing a Letter to him from Isaac Lothrop,
one of the Provincial Congress at Watertown,
dated June 22, giving an account of the action
on the 1 7th instant, 1089

25, Andrew Gilman appointed a Lieutenant by the
Massachusetts Congress, and instructed to visit
and cultivate a peaceable disposition with the
Indians, 1090

25, Letter from John Lane to the Massachusetts

Congress,- ------ 1090

25, Letter from the Massachusetts Congress to Go-
vernour Trumbull, for re-enforcements for the
Army, 1090

25, Letter from the Massachusetts Committee of
Safety to the Selectmen of Bradford. A Com-
pany of fifty Minute-Men enlisted in the Town
of Bradford, under Captain Gage, to serve for
one year from February, 1775, have all, except
two, scandalously deserted the cause of their
Country, and stained their own honour by
leaving the Camp and returning home, - 1091

25, Letter from General Folsom to the New-Hamp-
shire Committee of Safety, ... 1092

25, Letter from an Officer in the Army at Boston to
his friend in England, giving an account of the
Battle of Bunker's Hill, ... - 1093

25, Letter from General Burgoyne to Lord Stanley.

Account of the Battle of Bunker's Hill, - 1094
Litter to General Burgoyne: Strictures on his
Letter to Lord Stanley, - 1095

25, Letter from General Gage to the Earl of Dart-
mouth. The trials we have had show the
Rebels are not the despicable rabble too many
have supposed them to be : when they find cover
they make a good stand. The conquest of this
Country is not easy, and can be effected only
by time and perseverance and strong armies
attacking it in various quarters and dividing
their forces, ...... 1097

25, Letter from General Gage to the Earl of Dart-
mouth, with his account of the Battle of Bun-
ker's Hill, 1097

Return of the Officers, Non-Commissioned Offi-
cers and Privates Killed and Wounded of His
Majesty's Troops, at the attack of the Redoubts
and IntrenchmentB, on the Heights of Charles-
town, June 17, 1775, .... 1093

XCVII

1775.

CONTENTS.

XCVIII

1099
1101

1102

Observations on the Government account of the
late Action near Charlestown, ...

Further Observations, -
June 26, Message from the Governour of Grenada to the
House of Assembly, requiring that the Ad-
dress and Minutes of the House, in favour of
the rebellious subjects in America, be rescind-

«1, "

Message from the House to the Governour, in-
forming him an Address to the King had pass-
ed the House in consequence of an unanimous
Resolution for that purpose; it had been deli-
vered to the late Speaker, and is no longer in
the possession of the House, - - - 1102
Resolutions of the House refusing to comply
with the peremptory demands of the Govern-
our to rescind the Minutes, ... 1102
Proclamation of the Governour dissolving the
Assembly, - - - - - -1103

26, Meeting of sundry Gentlemen at Savannah, in
Georgia. Declare the Acts of Parliament, for
raising a Revenue in America, are grievances,
and they will do all they legally may to obtain
a redress of those grievances, - - - 1 103

26, Meeting of the Committee for Talbot County,
Maryland. Information of the arrival in the
Chesapeake Bay of the Ship Johnston, Cap-
tain Jones, from Liverpool, with Salt and Dry

Goods, - 1104

Report of the Sub- Committee who examined the
Ship Johnston, with a schedule of the Goods
on board, shipped by James Gildart and John
Gawith, of Liverpool, who are declared to
have violated the Association, ... 1104

26, Committee for the City and Liberties of Phila-
delphia. Resolve that Henry Cour and Nich-
olas Ashton, of Liverpool, have knowingly
violated the Association of the American Con-
gress, by shipping Salt to America in the Ship
Albion, and that the Ship and Cargo return to
Liverpool forthwith, ----- 1105

26, Letter from John Lamb to the New- York Con-
gress, - - - - - - -11 06

26, Letter from John French to the New- York
Congress. Cannot take his seat in Congress,
as it appears he was not elected by a majority, 1106

26, Letter from Robert R. Livingston to the New-
York Congress. His Powder Mill is in
operation, and will immediately begin making
the Powder, - 1106

26, Letter from Governour Trumbull to President

Hancock, - - - - - -1106

26, Letter from General Gage to Lord Dunmore, in-
forming him of his victory over the Rebels, on
the 17th, 1107

26, Letter from General Ward to the Massachusetts

Congress, ------ 1107

26, Letter from the Committee for Northfield, Mas-
sachusetts, to the Provincial Congress, - - 1108

26, Petition of the Committee of Correspondence for
the Town of Plymouth, Massachusetts, to the
Provincial Congress, ... - 1108

26, Letter from the New-Hampshire Committee of

Safety to General Folsom, - - - - 1 1 09

27, Letter from Governour Wright to General Gage.

The unhappy affair of the 19th of April, and
some late occurrences in South-Carolina, have
forced the People of Georgia into the same
predicament with others. He has neither Men
nor Money. The King's Officers, and friends
to Government are left naked, and exposed to
the resentment of an enraged People, - - 1109
Letter sent in place of the foregoing, (which was
intercepted and suppressed,) by the Secret
Committee of Charlestown, South-Carolina,
(Note,) 1110

27, Letter from Gov. Wright to Admiral Graves,
urging him to send a Sloop-of-War to Savan-
nah immediately; a Vessel with a quantity of
Gunpowder is expected, and Boats and Men
from South-Carolina are waiting to take her,
and he has no means to prevent it, - - 1 1 1 1
Letter substituted for the foregoing by the Secret
Committee of South-Carolina, (Note,) - - 1111

27. Letter from Charlestown, South-Carolina, to a
Gentleman in Philadelphia, enclosing Extracts
of Letters from the Superintendent and Agent
of Indian Affairs in Georgia, - - - 1 1 1 1

Fourth Series. — Vol. it.

1775.

June 27, Meeting of the Committee of Accomack Coun-
ty, Virginia. John Sherlock declared an ene-
my to American Liberty. Recantation of Mr.
Sherlock, m2

27, Committee for Bedford County, Virginia : offer
assistance and protection to such of the Inha-
bitants of the lower parts of the Colony as may
be obliged to quit their habitations, - - 1 1 13

27, Letter from President Hancock to the New- York
Congress, enclosing a List of the General Offi-
cers appointed to command the Continental
Forces, 1114

27, Letter from the New- York Congress to Govern-
our Trumbull. A Guard has been sent to
escort four Wagons loaded with Gunpowder,
from New-Jersey, for the Camp at Cambridge, 1114

27, Meeting of the Committee of Brookhaven, Suf-
folk County, New- York. Adopt the Reso-
lutions and determinations of the Continental
Congress, and the injunctions of the Provin-
cial Congress, and will abide by, adhere to,
and support them. Apologize for their past
conduct, in having so late come into the Con-
gressional measures, ----- 934

27, Letter from Thomas Hicks to the New- York
Congress, with his reasons for not taking his
seat in Congress, and account of the election
in Queen's County, where they decline for the
present to send Delegates, - - - - 1 1 1 4

27, Petition and Remonstrance of Hermann Zedt-
witz to the New- York Provincial Congress,
for permission to raise a Regiment of Rifle-
men, and appoint him to the command of it, - 1115

27, Letter from Elisha Phelps, at Ticonderoga, to

the Massachusetts Congress, - - - 1116

27, Letter from Governour Trumbull to the Massa-
chusetts Congress. Is informed by Colonel
Hinman, at Ticonderoga, that the British are
fortifying St. John's, and that the Caughnawaga
Indians have had a war-dance, being brought
to it by General Carleton, - - - - 1116

27, Meeting of the Committees of Inspection for the

Towns of Tiverton and Little Compton, R. I. - 1117

27, Letter from Governour Cooke to the Massachu-
setts Congress. Rhode-Island is about to fit
out two Armed Vessels for the protection of
their trade; a few Vessels, properly armed and
manned, would be a great means of protecting
the coast, and might enable us to make repri-
sals, 1118

27, Extracts of Letters received in Philadelphia, from

Gentlemen in the Army at Cambridge, - 1118

27, Letter from General Ward to the Massachusetts
Congress, recommending Col. William Hen-
shaw for Adjutant-General, - - - 1119

27, Letter from General Thomas to the Massachu-
setts Congress, with a request from the Select-
men of Boston that Provisions may be sent into
Boston for the American Prisoners taken on
the 1 7th, at Charlestown, - - - - 1119

27, Letter from Colonel David Brewer to the Massa-
chusetts Congress, - - - - - 1 1 19

27, Petition of the Officers of Colonels Prescott, Frye
and Bridge's Regiments, to the Massachusetts
Congress, praying an allowance for their losses
in the Battle on the 17th instant, - - - 1119

27, Letter from the Massachusetts Congress to the
Continental Congress. The Continental Army
before Boston are restrained from returning
the fire of the British, which is kept up daily,
lest by so doing they exhaust their little stock
of powder, and place them at the mercy of
their enemies. Nothing can so much merit the
immediate attention of the Congress as the
means of supplying this Army in the speediest
manner with Gunpowder, - - - 1 120

27, Letter from General Folsom to the New-Hamp-
shire Committee of Safety, - - - - 1121

27, Letter from the Portsmouth, New-Hampshire,
Committee, to the Massachusetts Committee
of Safety, enclosing an intercepted Letter from
Boston, 1122

27 Letter from the Committees of Hanover and
Lebanon to the New-Hampshire Congress. —
Mr. Dean has just arrived with important
intelligence from Canada, and will set out for
Philadelphia to-morrow, to lay it before the
Continental Congress, ... - 1540

1122

28,

1123

•J.-.

28,
28,

28,

28,

28,

28,

28,

28,

28,

28,
28,

29,

29,

1329
1124

- 1124

XCIX

1""5. . .

June 28, Meeting of the Committee of Observation tor

Ave Arundel County and City of Annapolis.

Forbid the landing of Goods imported in the

Shi]) Adventure, from London, -

Letter from Genera] Schuyler to the Continental
Congress. Two Regiments of Connecticut
Troops have arrived within two miles of New-
■> 9rk Reports prevail there that the Indians
have accepted the hatehet offered them by
( iiu.ral Carleton, and that considerable bodies
of them have been seen going to Montreal.
Eight Transports with Troops are now at
Bandy-Hook, ------

Lettec from the New-York Congress to their
1 tolegatee in the Continental Congress. Deeply
impressed with the necessity of an accommo-
dation with our Parent State, and conscious
that the best service we can render to the pre-
sent and all future generations must consist in
promoting it, we have laboured to point out
such moderate terms as may tend to reconcile
the unhappy differences ; and take the liberty
of enclosing the result of our deliberations, -

Letter from Peter T. Curtenius to the New- York
Congress, .-----

Letter from the Charlotte County, New- York,
Committee, to the Provincial Congress. Dis-
turbances in the County ; the People are dis-
satisfied with the order of Congress to remove
the Cannon from Ticonderoga, -

Address of the Inhabitants of the German Flats,
to the Oneida and Tuscarora Indians as-
sembled there, ------

Address of the English Merchants, of Quebeck,
to General Carleton ; offer their services to
protect the place, and request the Militia to be
embodied, ------

Letter from General Greene to Jacob Greene.
The late Battle. The present situation of both
Armies. The Rhode-Island Troops are raw,
irregular and undisciplined; yet, bad as they
are, they are under much better government
than any Troops around Boston, -

Letter from the Committee of Inspection for the
Town of Biddeford to the Massachusetts Con-
gress, -------

Letter from the Massachusetts Committee of
Safety to the Provincial Congress, protesting
against an Order sent to them by Gen. Ward, 1127

Letter from the Massachusetts Congress to the
Albany Committee, with a particular account
of the late Engagement with the enemies of
America, ......

Petition of the Inhabitants of Machias to the
Massachusetts Congress, praying for a supply
of Provisions, the situation of the times having'
prevented their procuring it,

Letter from the New-Hampshire Committee of
Safety to General Folsom,

Letter from the Rev. Dr. Wheelock to the New.
Hampshire Congress, with information of the
disposition of the Northern Indians towards
the Colonies, ....

Letter from the Hague. Orders have been given
by the States-General to their Admiral in the
West- Indies to seize and destroy all Ammuni-
tion, Stores and Provisions, found in any Ships
bound from any Dutch Settlements to any
Port in the English-American Colonies,

Letter from Charlestown to a Gentleman in Phi-
ladelphia. Charlestown has more the appear-
ance of a Garrison-Town than a Mart for
Trade. One Company keeps guard all day,
and two every night. The Tories in Georgia
are now no more : the Province is almost uni-
versally on the right side, and are about to
choose Delegates to the Congress,

Free Thoughts on the present Times and „
sures; addressed to the People of Virginia -

Philadelphia Committee direct that no Sheep he
killed under four years of age, in compliance
with the Resolves of the Provincial Convention
29, Letter from the New- York Congress to the Con-
tinental Congress, -
29, Letter from General Schuyler to the Continental
n ss. Some Oneida Indians, lately arrived
at Albany, have expressed a wish that the In-
dians should be called together there, - - 1133

CONTENTS.

1125

1125

- 1126

1127

1444

- 1128

- 1128

- 1541

1128

29,
29,

- 1129

1129

1132

- 1132

1775.
June 28, Letter from General Schuyhr, at New- York, to

Colonel Hinraan, commanding at Ticonderoga, 1 133

29, Letter from General Schuyler to the New- York
Congress. Proposes the Troops from Connect-
icut shall encamp this morning, and requests
Tints and other necessaries may be furnished
immediately, - - - - - - 1134

29, Letter from the' New- York Congress to Elisha
Phelps, Commissary to the Connecticut Troops
on Lake Champlain. Have made provision
for passing to him all the Provisions and Stop s
heretofore sent for the Troops at the Posts on
the Lake, 1332

29, Letter from the New- York Congress to the
Agents at Albany, directing them to deliver to
Mr. Phelps, the Commissary appointed by Go-
vernour Trumbull, all the Provisions and Ston s
in their hands, ----- 1332

29, Letter from Colonel Jacob Bay ley to the New-
York Congress. He has been chosen a Mem-
ber of the Provincial Congress, but cannot
attend, as they are apprehensive of an invasion
from Canada, - - - - - 1134

29, Association of the Inhabitants of Newtown, in
Fairfield County, Connecticut, adopted on the
13th of February, and signed by the Inhabi-
tants on the 12th of April, 1775, - -1135

29, Letter from Fort George, near Ticonderoga, to a

Gentleman in Hartford. It is generally be-
lieved that Carleton is making preparations to
come against us. Guy Johnson is doing all
he can to raise the Indians against us, - 1 135

30, Preparations for defence at Williamsburgh, Vir-

ginia, - - - - - - -1135

30, Address of the Committee of Cumberland Coun-
ty, Virginia, to the Inhabitants of the County, 1 136

30, Letter from one of the Virginia Delegates, at

Philadelphia, to a friend in Williamsburgh, - 1137

30, Letter to the New- York Congress, from their
Delegates in the Continental Congress, urging
them, by all means, to complete their levies
of Men without delay; the honour as well as
the interest of the Congress is much concerned
in the success of this measure ; Connecticut
boasts of having raised their Men in ten days, 1 137

30, Letter from General Schuyler, at New- York, to
the Continental Congress. In obedience to the
Resolutions of Congress, he will repair with-
out delay to Ticonderoga, and execute their
wishes with the utmost expedition and secrecy, 1 138

30, Letter from General Schuyler to the New- York
Congress. Has just received Despatches con-
taining matters of the utmost importance, and
wishes to meet a small Committee of their
body, to whom he will communicate such part
of his orders as become the subject of their
consideration, - - - - - -1139

30, Letter from General Schuyler to Governour
Trumbull. To enable him to carry into exe-
cution the orders of the Continental Congress,
supplies of Money and Ammunition are in-
dispensably necessary; he requests Connecti-
cut will send him fifteen or twenty thousand
Pounds of their Money, and all the Ammuni-
tion they can spare, for it cannot be had in
New- York, even in the smallest quantity, - 1139

30, Letter from Capt. John Lamb to the New- York

Congress, ------ 1140

30, Letter from Samuel Mott, at Fort George, to Go-
vernour Trumbull. Has been informed of the
extraordinary ill conduct of Col. Arnold, the
particulars of which have been sent by Col.
Hinman. Requests that Captain Niles, of
Norwich, a bold and able sea commander,
maybe commissioned to take command of one
of the Vessels on the Lake. Guy Johnson is
doing all in his power to stimulate the Indians
against us, - - - - - - 1140

30, Letter from General Ward to the Continental
Congress. Has received and accepts his ap-
pointment as a Major-General in the Ameri-
can Army. Hopes the appointments in Mas-
sachusetts, made by the Congress, of General
Officers, may not have a tendency to create
uneasiness; which ought, at this time, to be
carefully avoided, - - . . - 1140

30, Letter from General Ward to John Pigeon, Com-
missary-General, - - - - - 1141

CI

CONTENTS.

June 30, Letter from General Thomas to the Massachu-
setts Committee of Safety, - - - - 1 1 4 1

30, Letter from General Heath to the Massachusetts
Committee of Safety. Many of his Regiment
are without Arms ; requests they may be sup-
plied, 1141

30, Letter from the Committee of Safety for Massa-
chusetts to the Provincial Congress. Desire
to have a full knowledge of the emissions of
Bills lately made, before they consider the fur-
ther emission required by a Resolve of the
Provincial Congress, .... 1141

30, Letter from the Massachusetts Committee of Sup-
plies to the New-Hampshire Committee of
Safety, requesting them to forward some Can-
non they have, - - - - - 1142

30, Colonel John Fcnton declared an enemy to the
Liberties of America by the Congress of New-
Hampshire, and sent under guard to Head-
Quarters, 698

Eulogium sacred to the memory of the late Maj.
Gen. Warren, who fell, June 17, 1775, fighting
against the Ministerial Army at Boston, - 1142

RHODE-ISLAND ASSEMBLY.

May 3, Rliode- Island Assembly meet at Providence, - 1 143

List of the Members, 1143

Records of the Colony removed to Providence, - 1 1 45
Committee to prepare a Bill for regulating the
Army to be raised for the defence of the Co-
lony, 1145

Act for embodying, supplying and paying the
Army of Observation ordered to be raised for
the defence of the Colony, ... 1145

Committee of Safety authorized to receive and
distribute Arms, - - - - -1147

Committee of Safety appointed, - - - 1 1 47
Officers of the Army of Observation, - - 1147
Resolutions disqualifying Governour Wanton,
and authorizing the Lieutenant-Governour to
act as Governour, ..... 1149

Committee of Safety directed to make out the
account of the expenses of Raising and Equip-
ping the Army of Observation, and transmit
it to the Continental Congress, - - - 1150
Proceedings of the Assembly, relative to the Dis-
putes between Great Britain and the Colonies,
directed to be sent to the Assembly of Connect-
icut and Committee of New- York, - - 1 150
Pay to the Officers and Men of the Army of Ob-
servation, ...... H50

Embargo laid on all Provisions going out of the

Colony, 1151

Adjourn to second Monday in June, - - 1151

Jtt»el2,Meet according to adjournment, - - - 1151

List of the Members, 1151

Disqualification of Governour Wanton continued, 1 152
Deputy-Govemour requested to write to Captain
Wallace, Commander of His Majesty's Ship
Rose, now in the Harbour of Newport, and
demand of him the reason of his conduct to-
wards the Inhabitants of the Colony, - - 1152
Allowances to Soldiers in Camp, - - - 1152
Rules for regulating the Army of Observation,

raised by this Colony, - - - - 1152

Committee of Safely directed to fit out, with Arms
and Men, two Vessels, to protect the Trade of

the Colony, 1158

Officers appointed to command the Vessels, - 1158
Memorial of William Potter, of South-Kingston,
expressing his regret at having signed the Pro-
test, in April last, against the Act for raising
an Army of Observation, ... - 1158
The Memorial is considered satisfactory, and Mr.
Potter is reinstated in the favour of the As-
sembly, .------ 1159

Military Officers appointed, - - - - 1 159

Post-Offices established, Postmasters and Post-
Riders appointed, and Rates of Postage fixed, 1160
Tin Thousand Pounds in lawful money, Bills of
Credit, authorized, ..... H61

Officers chosen by the Light-Infantry Compa-
nies of Providence and Gloucester approved, 1161
Officers chosen by the Company of Scituate Hun-
ters, approved, ------ 1161

An Act to prevent Desertion from the Army of
Observation, 1161

1775.

Officers chosen by the Company of North-Pro-
vidence Rangers, approved, " - - -

The Deputy-Governour requested to transmit to
the Rhode- Island Delegates in the Continental
Congress a copy of the Proceedings of this
Assembly, ......

Adjourned to the third Monday in August next,
Juvu: 28, Meet again ; convened by the Lieut. Governour,

List of the Members of the Assembly,

Officers chosen to command the Pawtuxet Ran-
gers, approved, - - - - -

Six additional Companies authorized to be raised
and equipped ; two Companies to be added to
each of the Regiments now in the service of
this Colony, and encamped near Boston,

Ten Thousand Pounds in lawful money, Bills,
to be emitted for the pay and support of the
additional Companies, . . . -

An Act to repeal an Act entitled "An Act for
Regulating Appeals to His Majesty in Coun-
cil, in Great Britain," - -

Disqualification of Governour Wanton con-
tinued, -------

Army of Observation placed under the command
and direction of the Commander-in-Chief of
the combined American Army, stationed in the
Province of Massachusetts, ...

Deputy-Governour requested to write a Reply
to the Speech of the Oneida Indians to the
four New-England Colonies, ...

Committee appointed to take an account of the
Powder, Arms and Ammunition, as well pri-
vate as publick, in the Colony, ...

Committees of the several Towns requested to
collect Saltpetre, and forward it to the Provin-
cial Congress in New- York, -

Officers chosen to command the Providence Gre-
nadier Company, approved, ...

Officers appointed to command the six additional
Companies to the Army of Observation,

Act for enlisting one-fourth part of the Militia of
the Colony as Minute-Men, -

Adjourned to the third Monday in August,

21,

22,
23,

24,

PENNSYLVANIA ASSEMBLY.

June 19, Pennsylvania Assembly meet, ...

20, Message to the Governour, that they are ready

to proceed to any business he may have to lay

before them, ......

Answer of the Governour ; he has no business to
lay before the House, ....

Committee to prepare a bill for striking twenty-
two thousand Pounds in Bills of Credit, " -

Bill for striking Bills of Credit reported and
read, .......

Memorial from the Committee for the City and
Liberties of Philadelphia, requesting them to
appoint a Committee of Safety and Defence, -

Resolution of the Continental Congress of June
22, requesting Pennsylvania to raise two or
more Companies of Riflemen, presented to the
House, ...----

Petition from a number of the Officers of the As-
sociation in the City and Liberties of Philadel-
phia, concurring with the Petition and Memo-
rial from the Committee of the said City and
Liberties, presented yesterday, ...

Consideration of the Petition from the Committee
for Philadelphia resumed, - - - -

Committee appointed to consider of, and report to
the House, such measures as maybe expedient
for putting the City and Province into a state
of defence, ------

Message from the Governour, refusing his con-
sent "to the Bill entitled "An Act for the sup-
port of Government of this Province, and pay-
ment of the Publick Debt,"

Committee to prepare an Answer to the Message,

Resolves reported by the Committee on the De-
fence of the City and Province, considered and
agreed to by the House, -

Committee of Safety appointed, -

People conscientiously scrupulous of bearing
Arms recommended to assist the indigent As-
sociators, -------

Adjourned to Monday, the 18th of September
next, -------

27,

28,

30,

CII

- 1162

1162
1162
1162
1163

- 1163

1163

1163

1163
1164

1164

1164

1164

1164

1164

1165

1165
1168

1167

1167
1167
1168
1168

1168
1170

1170
1170

1170

1171
1171

1172
1173

1174
1174

cm

1775.

NEW-HAMPSHIRE 1IOISE OF REPRESENTATIVES.

June 12, House of Representatives of New-Hampshire
meet, ......

13, Refuse to receive the Members elected on the

King's Writ, for the Towns of Plymouth, < >r-

forrl, and Liin -

Answer of the House to the Governour's Speech,

Message from the (iovernour, adjourning the

House to Tuesday, the 1 1th of August next, -

NEW-HAMPSHIRE PROVINCIAL CONORE8S.

Ju w«27, The Congress meets according to adjournment,
Cannon to be sent to the Army at Medford,

28, Provincial and County Records at Portsmouth

removed to Exeter, -

29, Rules and Articles of War forMassachusetts.from

.\'.>. 1 to No. 53, inclusive, adopted for the
New-Hampshire Forces, ....

30, Justices of the several Courts recommended to

adjourn their respective Courts to the first day
of the next Term, till further advice of this
Congress, ------

Colonel John Fenton ordered to be confined in
the Jail at Exeter, and supported like a Gen-
tleman, at the expense of the Colony,
July 1, Colonel Fenton ordered to be sent to the Head-
Quarters of the New-Hampshire Forces,

Committee to prepare a Bill for an emission of a
further sum of Paper Notes, -

Committee to bring in a Plan to regulate the Mi-
litia of the Colony, -----

Committee to confer with the other New-Eng-
land Colonies, on the situation of Ticonderoga,
Crown Point, and Canada, and procure the
views of those Colonies relative to any Plan of
Operations in those parts, -

3, Publick Money in the hands of George Jaflrey,

Treasurer, delivered to a Committee of the
Congress, ......

Letter received from Dr. Wheelock, giving an
account of the state of matters in Canada, sent
by a Committee to the Massachusetts Congress,

4, Committee to prepare a Vote for establishing and

encouraging sundry Manufactures in the Co-
lony, .... ...

5, Receiver-General authorized to give his Notes

of Hand, on the faith of the Colony, for ten
thousand Pounds, - - - . .

Selectmen or Committee of each Town to take
an exact list of all the Fire-Artns fit for use in
their respective Towns and Parishes in the
Colony, .--....
7, Report of the Committee appointed to remove the
Publick Records, -----

Committee of Safety directed to write a Letter to
the Continental Congress, setting forth the situ-
ation of the Colony, the state of the Forces, &c.,

Adjourned to August 22, ....

CONTENTS.

civ

- 1175

117")
1175

1176

1179
1179

1179
1180

1180

1181
1181
1181
1181

1181
1181
1182
1182
1182

1184
1184

1186
1186

2,

HOUSE OF BURGESSES OF VIRGINIA.

June 1, House of Burgesses of Virginia meet at Wil-
liamsburgh, ......

Peyton Randolph chosen Speaker, ...

Speech of the Governour to the Council and
House of Burgesses,

Message from the Governour, communicating the
Joint Address of the Lords and Commons, on
the 7th of February, and His Majesty's An-
swer ; and also the Resolution of the House of
Commons of the 27th of the same month,

Address to the Governour ordered, and a Com-
mittee appointed to prepare it.

Journal of the Proceedings of the Congress held

£t i laWla> on th^ 5th dfty of September,

1774, laid before the House, . .

Proceedings of the Convention of Delegate for
the Counties and Corporations in the Colo™
of Virginia, held at Richmond Town in the

F-rT'y ?/ ,H™rica> 0l> the 20th day of March,

1775, laid before the House,
Address to the Governour, requesting him to

communicate to the House the number of
Militia lately drawn out into actual service in
defence of the Colony; and what Militia has
teen ordered out since the late Indian Expedi-
tion, and for what purposes, - - . .

1185
1186

1187

S,

1188
1188

1188
- 1188

1189

1775.
June 5, Answer of the Governour to the Address relative

to the Militia, - 1189

Address to the Governour in answer to his
Speech, - 1190

Committee to inspect the Publick Magazine in
this City, and inquire into the Stores belonging
to the same, - - - - - - 1 1 9 1

Petition of the Presbytery of Hanover, in behalf
of themselves and all the Presbyterians of
Virginia, and of all Protestant Dissenters else-
where, praying for equal liberties and advan-
tages with their fellow-subjects, - - - 1191

Journal of the Proceedings of the Congress con-
sidered, and unanimously approved, - - 1192

Proceedings of the Convention considered, and

unanimously approved, - - - - 1 193

Address of the Council to the Governour, - 1193

Governour's Answer, ----- 1193

6, Message from the Governour relative to the

Publick Magazine; and a paper referred to in

the Message, 1 193

The Gentlemen who were appointed to inspect
the Magazine directed to prepare an Answer
to the Message, - - - - - 1 194

Answer to the Governour's Message, - - 1194

Message from the Governour relative to the Gun-
powder which has been removed from the
Publick Magazine by His Excellency's order, 1 195

Message from the Council, with a copy of their
Proceedings upon a report relative to the Ma-
rines and Sailors belonging to His Majesty's
Ship the Fowey, 1 195

Captain James Innis, of the Williamsburgh Vo-
lunteers, requested to guard the Magazine, - 1 196

7, The Governour's Message, relative to the remo-

val of the Gunpowder from the Magazine,

considered, - - - - - -11 96

Committee appointed to prepare and present an

Address to the Governour, - - - - 1 196
Governour's Speech considered in Committee of

the Whole House, 1 196

Message from the Governour in answer to their

Address of this day, - - - - - 1197
Petition of Wm. Fleming presented to the House, 1 197

8, Petition of Abraham Field presented, - - 1197
Message from the Council, with a written Mes-
sage from the Governour, informing that, con-
sidering himself in danger of personal violence,

he had removed to a place of safety; and had
fixed his residence for the present on board His
Majesty's Ship the Fowey, lying at York, and
that for the transaction of all publick business,
access to him will be easy and safe, - - 1198

Message read, considered, and Committee ap-
pointed to prepare an Address in answer, - 1 198

Address to tire Governour, in answer to his Mes-
sage, - - - - - - - 1199

Sent to the Council for their concurrence, - - 1 199

Concurred in by the Council and amended to
make it a Joint Address, - - - - 1199

Committee appointed to present it, - - - 1 199

9, Governour's Speech considered in Committee of

the Whole, 1199

Mr. Cary reported from the Committee, that the
Address of yesterday had been presented to the
Governour on board the Fowey, and that he
was pleased to say he would take time to con-
sider it, and would return an answer in writing
after he had maturely deliberated upon its con-
tents, 1200

10, Governour's Speech considered in Committee of

the Whole, 1200

Resolution reported to the House, setting forth
the reasons why they cannot close with the
Resolution of the House of Commons of the
27th of February, (Lord North's,) - - 1200

Resolution agreed to, and a Committee appointed
to prepare an Address to the Governour upon it, 1202

Answer of the Governour to the Joint Address,
presented to him yesterday, - - - - 1202

Committee appointed to inquire into the causes of
the late Disturbances and Commotions, - 1204

12, Petition of the Community of Christians called
Menonites, praying they may have the same
liberty of affirming to the truth of any matter
as indulged to the People called Quakers. - 1204

Address to the Governour reported to the House
by the Committee, ..... 1204

cv CONTENTS.

1775.
Junel2, Address agreed to, and a Committee appointed to

present it, - - - - - - - 1 206

1 3, Report of the Committee appointed to inspect the

Magazine, 1206

Message to the Council, on securing the Arms

left in the Palace by the Governour, - - 1208
Petition of sundry persons of the Community of

Christians called Baptists, and other Protestant

Dissenters, ...... 1208

14, Petition of several persons in that part of the

County of Augusta which lies West of the
Alleghany Mountains, presented by Mr. Bland,
one. of the Delegates to the Continental Con-
gress, where it was first presented, - - 1208

Commissioners appointed to ratify the Treaty of
Peace between this Colony and the Indians, - 1209

Report of the Committee appointed to inquire
into the late Disturbances and Commotions, - 1209

15, Committee appointed to a Conference with the

Council, on the Message of the House relative

to the security of the publick Arms, - - 1216

Several Conferences on the subject of securing
the Arms, 1216

Committee appointed to join with a Committee of
the Council in preparing an Address to the
Governour, that he will consent to a removal
of the publick Arms to a more secure place, - 1217

House in Committee of the Whole on the Go-
vernour's Answer to the Joint Address of the
two Houses; the Report of the Committee ap-
pointed to inspect the Publick Magazine; the
Report of the Committee on the late Disturb-
ances and Commotions; and an extract of a
Letter from Lord Dunmore to Earl of Dart-
mouth, dated Williamsburgh, Dec'r 24, 1774, 1217

Resolution reported by the Committee of the
Whole, directing an Address to the Governour, 1217

Resolution agreed to, and Committee appointed to

prepare the Address, - - - - - 1218

Message to the Council, informing them that the
Locks of upwards of three hundred Guns, late-
ly in complete order in the Publick Magazine,
have been taken off"; and requesting them to
join in an Address to the Governour, desiring
him to direct the Locks to be returned to the
Magazine, ...... 1218

16, Mr. Cary reported to the House, that their Ad--

dress of Monday last, (the 12th instant,) had
been presented to the Governour, and had re-
ceived his Answer, - - - - - 1218

Answer of the Governour to the Address of
Monday, 1218

Address ordered to be presented to the Governour,
informing him the Publick Magazine is now
in a fit condition for the reception of Arms and
Ammunition, and requesting him to return the
Powder lately removed from thence by his
order, 1218

Committee to prepare the Address, - - - 1219

17, Committee appointed, on the 7th of June, to draw

up an Address to be presented to the Govern-
our, reported, ...... 1219

Address reported by the Committee agreed to,
and Committee appointed to present it, - - 1219

Council agree to address the Governour concern-
ing the Locks taken off" some of the Guns in
the Magazine, and Committee appointed to
prepare it, ...... 1220

Mr. Mercer reported, from the Committee ap-
pointed yesterday to draw up an Address to the
Governour, informing him the Publick Maga-
zine is now in a fit condition for the reception
of Arms and Ammunition, .... 1220

Address reported by Mr. Mercer agreed to, and
a Committee appointed to present it, - - 1221

Joint Address to the Governour, requesting him
to order the Publick Arms in the Palace may
be removed, during his absence, to the Publick

Magazine, 1221

19, Mr. Bland presented to the House copies of seve-
ral Resolutions of the Continental Congress,
passed on the 17th of May, on the 29th of May,
and on 2d of June, ..... 1221

Resolutions of the Congress approved of by the
House, and the several Committees in the Co-
lony for carrying into execution the Continen-
tal Association are requested to be vigilant in
seeing them strictly complied with, - - 1221

12^1
1231

- 1232

1232

CVI

1775.

June 19, Address to the Governour, reported by the Com-
mittee appointed on Thursday last, the 15th
instant, .......

Agreed to, and Committee appointed to present it,

20, Message from the Council, with a Paper which
they have received from the Governour, as his
Answer to the last Joint Address of the Coun-
cil and House, .....

Governour, in the Paper communicated, refuses
to give directions for the removal of the Arms
from the Palace, and directs that they remain
there, and on no account be touched without
his express permission, ....

Mr. Cary reported that the Joint Address of Sa-
turday last, (June 17,) and the two Addresses
of this House of the same day, and the Address
of yesterday, had been severally presented to
the Governour, who directed him to acquaint
the House he had sent his Answer to the first
to the Council, and delivered him two Papers
in answer to the second and third Addresses, - 1232

21, Papers sent by the Governour, in answer to the
Joint Address and to the Addresses of this
House, taken into consideration, - - - 1233

Conference desired with the Council, on the state
of the Colony, and on the subject-matter of the
Governour's Message in answer to the Joint
Address of the Council and House, - - 1233

Conference agreed to by the Coancil, - - 1233

Committee appointed to manage the Conference
on the part of the House, ... - 1233

Instructions to Committee appointed to manage
the Conference, 1233

Address to the Governour agreed upon in Con-
ference, -...-.- 1234

Agreed to by the House, and Committee appoint-
ed to present it, ..... 1235

22, Answer of the Governour to the Joint Address of
yesterday, ...... 1236

Message from the Governour to the House, by
the Attorney-General, on the Bills and Re-
solves passed by the House, ... 1237

Address of the House in answer to the Message, 1237
24, Answer of the Governour to the Address, - 1239

Considered by the House in Committee of the
Whole, 1239

Resolutions, reported by the Committee of the
Whole, and agreed to by the House, - - 1239

Commissioners appointed to meet the Chiefs of
the Ohio Indians, to confirm and ratify a Treaty
of Peace with them, ----- 1240

Commissioners appointed to settle the Accounts
of the Militia for their services and losses in the
late Indian war, ..... 1240

Adjourned to the 12th of October next, - - 1241

NEW-YORK PROVINCIAL CONGRESS.

May 22, The Congress assembled at the Exchange, in

New- York, 1241-1348

23, List of the Deputies from the several Counties, 1241
Rules of the Congress adopted, ... 1243
Moved by Mr. Low, and consideration postponed,

that implicit obedience ought to be paid to all
General Regulations recommended by the Con-
tinental Congress; but that this Congress is
competent to determine on all matters relative
to the internal police of the Colony, - - 1244

Resolution of the Continental Congress of May
18th, relative to Ticonderoga, presented, - 1245

Committee appointed to report the best method of
carrying it into execution, ... 1245

All the Ministers in the City, who can pray in
English, requested to make arrangements for
opening the Congress with Prayer, - - 1245

24, Report of the Committee on the Resolution of the
Continental Congress relative to Ticonderoga, 1246

Committee appointed to superintend the removal
of the Cannon and Stores from Ticonderoga
to Fort George, ... - 1247

Letter from a Committee of the House of Repre-
sentatives of Connecticut, appointed to confer
with this Colony, - - - - 1247

Gentlemen from Connecticut introduced, their
Credentials read, and a Committee appointed
to confer with them, 1247

Committee to consider the expense and means
of raising Money, to defray the expense of

CVII

17 7.").

removing the Cannon and Stores from Ticon-

( ONTENTS.

1775.

rernour of Connecticut, inform-
imn of what they have done relative to

- -

Committee to prepare a Letter and Instructions

to thi for removing the Cannon and

Stores from Ticonderoga, -

Committee appouiled' to confer with the Gentle-

men from Connecticut, on their written re-

12-18

1248

1248

25,

qm >t,

Arrangement of the Clergy of New- York, to
open the Congress with Prayer every morn-
ing. ..----
Report of the Committee after their Conference,
Motion rejected, that the Letter to the Go-
vernour of Connecticut be withheld, and the
subject-matter thereof reconsidered,
Letter to the Agents for removing the Cannon

and Stores from Ticonderoga, -
Instructions to the Agents, - - - -
The Congress recommend to all persons not to
commit any hostilities against the People of
Canada, and declare every such step infamous,
and highly inimical to all the American Colo-

- 1250

1250
1250

- 1250

1251
1251

mes,

- 1253

27,

29,

- 1253

1254

- 1254

1254

- 1255

- 125G

1257

1257

- 1258

1259

Motion made, and consideration postponed, that
this Congress do fully approve of the Proceed'
ings of the late Continental Congress,
26, Committee of Correspondence appointed, and in-
structed to inform the People of Canada that
nothing hostile is intended against them,

Letter to the Committee of Safety for Massachu-
setts, and the Committee of Correspondence for
New-Hampshire, ....

Committee appointed to consider the expediency
of emitting a Continental Paper Currency, -

Letter to the Delegates representing this Colony
in the Continental Congress,

Propositions and requests of Capt. Asa Douglass, 1255

Members of the Congress desired to sign the As-
sociation, .....

Letter from Abraham Lott, for information
whether he is authorized to supply the Ship
Asia with Provisions: permission given,

Committee on Continental Paper Currency re-
port; to be considered on Tuesday next,

Letter from the Provincial Congress of New- Jer-
sey, dated May 26, ...

Letter from President Hancock, dated May 26,
with Resolves of the Continental Congress of
May 25, respecting the measures they conceive
necessary for the defence and safety of the City
and Province of New- York, ...

Letter to the Provincial Congress of New- Jersey, 1260

Letter to the Delegates in the Continental Con-
gress, 1260

Recommendation to the several Counties to ap-
point Committees to obtain the signatures of
all the Inhabitants to the Association, and to
report the Names of those who refuse to sign, 1261

Letter to the Counties, enclosing the foregoing
Recommendation, -

30, Report of the Committee on the Continental

Paper Currency, .....

Agreed to unanimously by the House, and a copy
directed to be transmitted to the Delegates of the
Colony in the Continental Congress,

Letter to the Delegates in Continental Congress,
enclosing the Report on Paper Currency,

Committee to examine the Ground at or near
King's Bridge, to ascertain if it will admit of
making a Fortification there that will be ten-
able, .....

Committee to go to the Highlands, and report the
most proper place for erecting one or more
Fortifications, ---.._

Motion by Mr. Kissam, that a Committee be ap-
pointed to prepare and state the terms on w liirh
a reconciliation may be tendered to I
Britain, -

31, Inhabitants of the Colony recommended to fur-

nish themselves with Anna ami Ammunition,
Commit; a„ arrangement of the

Troop* to lied for the defence of this

Colonv, -----..
June 1, Letter to thi tea of the Colony in the

Continental Congress. - - - . i

1261
1262

1264

1264

- 1265

1265

1265

1-207

1267

2,

3,

6,
6,

cvnr

t to Sub-Committee of the City of Albany, 1 269

Mr. Kissam, with leave of the Congress, withdrew
his motion of the 30th of May, - - - 1269

Committee of Correspondence reported a Litter
to the People of Canada, which was read and
approved, ...... 1270

Fifteen hundred copies of the Letter in French,
and live hundred in English, ordered to !»■
printed and distributed among the People of
Canada, - 1270

Motion by Mr. Kissam, that a Committee be ap-
pointed to prepare a Plan of Accommodation
between (ireat Britain and the Colonies, - 1271

Debated and adopted: affirmative seven Coun-
ties, negative four Counties, ... 1271

Committee to prepare the Plan of Accommoda-
tion, 1271

Letter from President Hancock, dated May 31,
enclosing a Resolution of the same day, re-
questing the Governour of Connecticut to send
a strong re-enforcement to Crown Point and
Ticonderoga, 1271

Peter T. Curtenius appointed Commissary to
supply the Northern Posts ; and the Members
of the Congress become responsible to him for
the disbursements he may make, - - 1272

Letter from James Rivington, Printer, received
and read, and the consideration of it deferred, 1274

Recommendation to the Inhabitants of the City
not to obstruct the embarkation of the British
Troops, 1274

Letter to Inhabitants of Tryon County, - - 1274

Letter to Colonel Guy Johnson, ... 1275

Letter from the Committee at Albany, dated June
2, 1775, 1276

Letter to the Governour and Company of Con-
necticut, 1277

Letter to the New- York Delegates at the Conti-
nental Congress, on the subject of erecting a
Fortification at King's Bridge, - - - 1278

Report of the Committee who viewed the Grounds
at King's Bridge, and places adjacent, - 1279

Colonel Philip Schuyler recommended to the
Continental Congress as a Major-General, and
Richard Montgomery as a Brigadier-General, 1280

Letter to the Committee of Albany, - - 1280

Letter to the Delegates of this Colony in the
Continental Congress, calling their attention to
the necessity of immediately providing Mo-
ney ; recommend the appointment of a Conti-
nental Superintendent of Indian Affairs; and
leave to the wisdom of the Continental Con-
gress the appointment of a General, - - 1 28 1

Letter to the Delegates in Continental Congress,
recommending Colonel Schuyler for Major-
General, and Captain Montgomery for Briga-
dier-General, -...'.. 1282

Any attempt to raise tumults, under pretext of a
doubtful interpretation of the Resolves or Re-
commendation of the Congress, is declared to
be a high infraction of the General Association,
and tending directly to the dissolution of this
Congress, - 1282

Letter to the Committee of Safety for Massachu-
setts, 1283

James Rivington having signed the General As-
sociation, and asked pardon of the publick, who
have been offended by his ill-judged publica-
tions, is permitted to return to his house and
family, 1284

Letter to Artemas Ward, General of the Massa-
chusetts Army, Joseph Warren, Chairman of
the Committee of Safety, and Moses Gill,
Chairman of the Committee of Supplies, - 1285

The late seizure of the Military Stores belonging
to the Crown, at Turtle Bay, is a direct viola-
tion of the Continental Order of the loth of
.May; is inimical to the true interest of the Colo-
nies, and tends to involve this City in the utmost
confusion and distress, .... 1285

Committee appointed to repair to Turtle Bay,
and inform the persons assembled there of tlie
opinion of this Congress, and to order them to
desist from the further execution of their inten-
tions, |285

Motion by Mr. Scott, to dismantle the Fort and
secure the Cannon, rejected: affirmative five
Counties; negative five Coun . . 1286

CIX

1775.

Jiuie'J, Secret Committee appointed to examine what
ijnnntity of Saltpetre is in the hands of the
Apothecaries in this City, ... - 1287

Committee to estimate and report the quantity of
every article necessary for eqiupping three
thousand Men, 1287

Letter to the Commander-in-Chief at Ticondero-
ga, informing him that the damaged Powder
there may be sent to the Mill erected near the
iast side of Hudson's River, in Rhynbeck Pre-
cinct, in Dutchess County, ... 1288

Litter to the Commissioners at Albany, appointed
to superintend the removal of the Cannon and
Stores from Tieonderoga and Crown Point, - 1288

Bounty of five Pounds given for every hundred
weight of Gunpowder manufactured within the
Colony, and a Bounty of twenty Pounds for
every hundred good Muskets so manufac-
tured, - 1288

Motion by Mr. T red well, to take the advice of the
Continental Congress relative to dismantling
the Fort, declared to be the same in substance
with a motion made, voted on, and carried in the
negative, yesterday: affirmative six Counties,
negative four Counties, .... 1288
10, Powder received from Elizabethtown, in New-
Jersey, committed to Mr. McDougull, to be
forwarded to the Massachusetts Army, - - 1290

The Mayor of the City informed the Congress
that application had been made to him respect-
ing some Arms taken out of the Baggage
Carts of the Troops lately embarking from
this City, 1290

Motion by Mr. Morris, that the Arms and Mili-
tary Accoutrements taken from His Majesty's
Troops on Tuesday last be restored, and that
every Inhabitant of the Colony who is possess-
ed of any, immediately deliver them to the
Mayor of New- York : carried in the Affirma-
tive: for the affirmative, eight Counties; for
the negative, two Counties, ... 1290

Case of Robert and John Murray considered, and
they are fully restored to their commercial
privileges, and declared to be entitled to the
forgiveness of the Publick, ... 1291

Copy of the Report of the Committee appointed
to ascertain the most proper place for erecting
a Fortification in the Highlands, ordered to be
sent to the Delegates in the Continental Con-
gress, ....... 1291

12, Letter from the Delegates of the Colony, dated

Philadelphia, June 10, 1292

Letter from the Continental Congress, dated June
10, with a Resolution of the 9th, requesting
New- York to forward to the Camp before Bos-
ton five thousand barrels of Flour, for the use
of the Continental Army, .... 1293
Committee appointed to purchase and forward the

Flour without delay, 1293

Letter to the Merchants of Canada. They agree
to the proposition for the establishment of a
regular Post between Montreal and New-
York ; and disavow in the strongest terms the
intention attributed to them, that the Confede-
rated Colonies on this Continent aim at Inde-
pendence, ------- 1294

13, Letter to the New- York Delegates, respecting

the establishment of a Post in the Highlands, 1295
Report ol the Committee on the .most proper

place for a Post in the Highlands, - - 1295
Committee to agree with any person in the City
for importing, without delay, any quantity of
Gunpowder, not exceeding thirty tons, allow-
ing the importer one hundred per cent, on the
first cost, - - - ' - - - 1296

14, Mr. McDougall appointed by the Congress to

seize one Angus McDonald, who is charged
with giving a Bounty and enlisting Men, to be
employed against the Liberties of this Country, 1297

Information given by Capt. Thompson of Troops
coming to America, ----- 1297

Letter to the Governour of Connecticut, with the
above information, ----- 1297

William Duer complains of sundry insinuations
against his conduct, with relation to the North-
ern Frontier of this Colony, and prays a Com-
mittee may be appointed to inquire into his
conduct, 1298

CONTENTS.

cx

1775.
June I 4, Committee appointed to hear and examine into

the case of Mr. Duer, .... 1298

Angus McDonald brought before the Congress:
and being examined, be confessed that he hail
taken the names of opwards of forty men, and
- also confessed sundry other matters, - - 1298

Deposition of Angus McDonald, voluntarily
given, setting forth the circumstances under
which he engaged in this business, on the sug-
gestion of Major Small, in Boston, - - 1298

Committee appointed to arrest Captain Alexander
McDonald, now or late of Richmond County, 1299

Angus McDonald sent a Prisoner to General
Wooster's Camp, 1299

Letter to General Wooster, requesting him to
take charge of, and secure Angus McDonald, 1299

Motion by Mr. Foster, that General Wooster be
requested to march, with the Troops under
his command, to the distance of five miles of
this City, 1300

15, Report on the case of William Duer. Insinua-

tions against him entirely groundless, - - 1300
Letter to General Wooster, requesting him to

march his Troops to this Colony, - - 1300
Petition from Ebenezer Hazard, requesting to

be appointed Postmaster, - - - - 1301
Letter from Wm. Goddard, on the same subject, 1301

16, Letter to Robert Boyd, of New- Windsor, on the

subject of making Gun-Barrels, - - - 1302

17, Letter to General Wooster, informing him they

have received information that the Transports,
with Troops for New- York, have been order-
ed for Boston, 1304

Committee appointed to prepare a Plan of Ac-
commodation between Great Britain and the
Colonies, directed to bring in their Report on
Wednesday next, 1304

20, Letter from James Dunne, dated Philadelphia,

June 17, with a Resolution of Congress of the
16th, requesting the march of Troops from
Connecticut to New- York, - - - 1305

Two Letters from Gen. Wooster, dated Green-
wich, June 17 and June 18, - - - 1306

Letter to Governour Trumbull, ... 1306

Letter to General Wooster, - - - - 1 307

Letter from the President of the Continental Con-
gress, dated Philadelphia, June 12, with Re-
solves of Congress of the 10th instant, - 1307

Abraham Lott authorized to supply Captain
Vandeput. and His Majesty's Ship Asia, with
necessaries from time to time, ... 1307

Recommendatory Passport to Brook Watson and
his suite, 1307

Motion by Mr. Verplanck, for advancing Money
to Messrs. Van Vleeck and Kipp, and allow-
ing a bounty on Saltpetre manufactured in the
Colony, rejected: affirmative, four Counties;
negative, eight Counties, .... 1308

21, Letter from the Rev. Samuel Kirkland, Mission-

ary among the Oneida Indians, dated Cherry
Valley, June 9, to the Committee of Albany, - 1309

Committee appointed to consider of such mea-
sures as may be proper, with respect to the
Oneidas and other Indian Nations, -■ - 1310

Committee appointed to consider on the best me-
thods to carry into effect the Resolve of the
Continental Congress, with relation to Salt-
petre and Sulphur, - - - - - 1310

Mr. McDougall reports the whole quantity of
Saltpetre now in Town amounts to two hun-
dred and eighty-five pounds, ...

Letter to the Committee of the City of New-
York, - - - - -

Committee for preparing a draught of the senti-
ments of this Congress on the terms of a Re-
conciliation with Great Britain, indulged till
to-morrow morning, - - -

22, Passport for Mr. Joseph Johnson and his Indian

companions, ......

Deputies erected to represent Queen's County
requested to take their seats on Tuesday
next, or assign their reasons for neglecting to
attend, - - 1312

Committee appointed to report the subject-mat-
ter of a proper Plan of Accommodation with
( ireat Britain, reported, .... 1312

Report to be considered on Saturday morning
next, 1312

1310

1310

1311

1311

CONTENTS.

cxn

1312

1312
1313

- 1313

- 1313

1314

- 1314

- 1315

CXI

Vssociation returned from Easthnmpton, in Suf-
folk Coimtv. signed by every Male Inhabitant
capable of bearing Ann*, - - -
Homo by Mi McDoag&ll, thai &e Troops to
be raised in this Colony, be clothed in Uni-
form, - '

23, Inhabitants of this Colony directed not to kill any

lb until the first day of November next, -

Motion by Mr. Morris, that no Sheep be killed
until the first dav of November next, ■

Motion by Mr. McDowell, to recognise the ap-
pointment of the Dejegatea to the Continen
tal Congress, unanimously approved of,

Colonel Lash n directed to' have his Battalion
ready to receive General Washington, when
he shall arrive, -

Committee appointed to make an arrangement
of the Troops to be raised in the Colony, re
ported, -----'

24, Consideration of the Report of the Committee on

the subject-matter of a Plan of Accommodation
with Great Britain resumed, read through by
paragraphs, and amended, -

Motion by Mr. Melancton Smith, for an addition
to the Report for securing the liberty of con-
science, read, amended, and adopted, - -1317

Motion by Mr. McDougall, that the Plan of Ac-
commodation be not transmitted to the Con-
gress until called for by them, or by our Dele-
gates there, ...... 1318

25, Committee appointed to meet General Washing-

ton at Newark, and accompany him to this
City, 1318

Information being received that Governour Tryon
is at the Hook, Colonel Lasher directed to
send one Company to Paulus Hook, to meet
the Generals; to keep one Company at the
Ferry for the same purpose; and that he have
the residue of his Battalion ready to receive
either the General or Go vernourTryon, which-
ever shall arrive first, and to wait on both as
well as circumstances will allow, - - 1318

Letter from the Provincial Congress of Massa-
chusetts, dated Watertown, June 13, - - 1319

Letter from the Committee at Aibany, dated June
21, expressing their apprehension that Go-
vernour Carleton has induced the Indians to
take up arms, - - - - - -1319

26, Address of the Congress to General Washing-

ton, 1321

Answer of General Washington to the Address, 1322
Report of the Committee of Arrangement further

considered, ...... 1322

27, Letter from the Committee of Intelligence for

Charlestown, South-Carolina, dated June 6, - 1323

Letter from General Gage to Governour Martin,
dated Boston, April 12, enclosed in the pre-
ceding Letter, - 1324

Warrant to such Gentlemen as are intended to
be Officers of the Troops raised in this Colony, 1324

Instructions to the Officers to be employed in
raising Troops, ..... 1325

Report of the Committee on the subject-matter
of a Plan of Accommodation with Great Bri-
tain resumed, further amended, and agreed to, 1326

Plan of Accommodation between Great Britain
and America, .--... 1326

28, Members from Queen's County to take their seats,

notwithstanding a number of the Inhabitants
of the County have refused to be represented
in the Congress, ..... 1328

Letter to the Delegates of this Colony at the
Continental Congress, to accompany the Plan
of Accommodation with Great Britain, - 1329

Letter to John Alsop, at Philadelphia, requesting
him to procure two thousand eight hundred
and fifty-two Blankets; they are not to be
purchased in New- York, - 1330

29, Application by the Mayor for permission to Fran-

cis Stephens, the King's Store-Keeper, to re-
move the Stores from Turtle Bay, - . 1331

General Schuyler is authorized to send a Guard
to protect the Stores, provided they are placed
in his possession, - - - - - 1331

Killing Lambs prohibited until the first of August
next, ' .

Letter to the Continental Congress, enclosing the
Letter of the 6th of June, from the Committee

it;

Charlestown, South-Caro-

1331

of Intelligence in
lina,
Jkhc 29, Letter to Elisha Phelps, Commissary of Provi-
sions, at Ticonderoga, . - - -

Letter to John N. Bleecker, one of the agents at
Albany, -

Mr. Lett authorized to supply Provisions to his
Majesty's Ship Kingfisher, ...
30, Field-Ofncers of the First, or New- York Regi-
ment, appointed,

Committee 10 meet and confer with (.{en. Schuyler,

Field-Officers of the Second and Third Regi-
ments appointed, - - - -

Report of the Committee appointed to confer with
General Schuyler,

Field-Officers of the Fourth Regiment appoint-
ed,

Committee to form and determine the rank of the
Captains and inferiour Officers of the several
Regiments,

My 1, Committee to meet and confer with Ethan Allen
and Seth Warner, - - - -

3, Letter to the Committee of the City of Albany,

with fifty quarter-easks of Gunpowder for the
Forts at Crown Point and Ticonderoga,

4, Letter from General Schuyler, dated New- York

July 3, -

Uniform Coats ordered to be made for all the
Non-Commissioned Officers and Men to be
raised in the Colony, - - - - -

Report of a Committee appointed to confer with
General Schuyler on the subject of his Letter,
received this day,

Motion by Mr. Sears, that Ethan Allen be per-
mitted to have an audience, agreed to . affirma-
tive nine Counties, negative three Counties, -

Ethan Allen and Seth Warner were admitted
and heard, ......

Five hundred Men, of those called Green-Moun-
tain Boys, ordered to be forthwith raised,

Letter from General Schuyler, dated this day, -

5, Congress being informed that the Corporation of

the City of New-York intends to address the
Governour, declare it to be improper for the
Corporation, or any other body corporate, or
individuals in the Colony, to address his Ex-
cellency at this critical juncture,

Officers of the Artillery Company of the Marine
Society appointed, .....

British Vessels not permitted to load any Provi
sions,

6, Committee appointed to convene all the Black-

smiths in Town, to ascertain if they can make
Gun-Barrels, Bayonets, and Iron Ramrods, -

Mr. Van Zandt authorized to contract for two
thousand Gun-Locks, ....

Committee appointed to write to Great Britain
for four complete sets of Locksmiths, to make
Gun Locks,

Bounty to Soldiers who enlist in the Continental
Army, - - - - -

Motion by Mr. Morris, to reconsider the Resolve
of yesterday, to prevent any Address being de-
livered to his Excellency Governour Tryon,

Debated and rejected: affirmative four Counties,
negative eight Counties,

Letter from Charles Thomson, dated Philadel-
phia, July 4, enclosing an intercepted Letter
from Governour Martin to Henry White, dated
Cape-Fear, June 13, 1775, . . .

7, Committee appointed to wait on Mr. White,
Letter from General Wooster, dated Camp near

New- York, July 7,

Report of the Committee appointed to wait on

Mr. White,

Committee appointed to form a proper method for

an arrangement of the Militia of the Colony,
Committee appointed to receive information of the

state of Cumberland County, -
Letter from Henry White, dated this day, in re-
lation to the intercepted Letter to him from

Governour Martin, -
Letter to Charles Thomson, enclosing to him a

copy of the Letter of Mr. White
Committee of Safety appointed to sit during the

recess of the Congress, -
Instructions to the Committee of Safety, -
Adjourned to Tuesday, July 25th,

- 1331
1-

- 1332
tt

- 1332

1333

1334
1334

1334

- 1334
1335

- 1335

1336

1336

- 1337

1338

- 1338

1338

1339

1339
1339

- 1341

1341

- 1341

1342

1342

- 1342
1342

1342

- 1343

1344
1344

1345

1345

1345

1345

1346

- 1346

1347
1348
1348

1353

1354

16,

17,

- 1354

1354

1354
1354

1354

1354
1355

1355

- 1355

1355
1355

- 1355

24,

25,

26,
27,
28,

29,

30,

6,

cxm CONTENTS.

1775.

MASSACHUSETTS COMMITTEE OF SAFETV.

May 31, Meet by adjournment at Watertown, - - 1347
June 1, Returns required of the Men now in Camp, - 1347
2, The New-England Army, proposed to be raised
for the defence and security of the lives, liberties
and properties of the Americans, amounts to
but twenty-four thousand five hundred Men,
whereas thirty thousand were supposed neces-
sary ; the Provincial Congress is requested to
state whether they will make any addition to
their establishment, - 1348

9, Letter to the Provincial Congress on the applica-
tion of Colonel Paul Dudley Sergeant, late of
New-Hampshire, .-"... 1349
10, Return sent to the Provincial Congress, of the
Gentlemen who have been commissioned, or
that have received any encouragement for
Commissions, ------ 1350

13, An attack on our Army near Boston, by General

Gage, being daily expected to be made, the
General is directed to ascertain the condition
of every Regiment, ----- 1352

Debates and determinations of the Committee
required to be kept a profound secret, - - 1352

Attention of Congress called to the destruction of
the property of Refugees, - - - - 1352

Sufferings of the Troops for want of Barracks
or Tents. 1352

14, Braintree, Hingham and Weymouth authorized

to raise Men for the defence of the Sea-Coast

of the Town, 1352

15, Allowance for Provisions for Soldiers in the

Massachusetts Army, .... 1353

Re-enforcements to General Gage's Army; his
very extraordinary Proclamation, declaring
the Inhabitants of Massachusetts-Bay Rebels,
and other movements of Mr. Gage, are evi-
dences of his intention soon to make another
attempt to penetrate into the country, -

The Army should be augmented immediately;
all the Soldiers supplied with Arms; and all
the Militia of the Colony held in readiness to
march on the shortest notice, ...

Bunker's Hill to be maintained by a sufficient
force being posted there, and a hill on Dor-
chester Neck to be secured,

Committee to consult with the Council of War
and General Officers on matters of importance,
and to inform them of the Resolve of this
Committee respecting Bunker's Hill and Dor-
chester Neck, ---...

Committee to inquire whether Houses or Tents
can be obtained for Troops that want cover, -

Field-Officers for Colonel Gridley's Regiment,

Orders to the Towns in the vicinity of Boston to
send their Town stocks of Powder to Water-
town, ----...

Four Horses required for the Committee, as the
firing on the Colony Troops requires quick
intelligence from the scene of action,

Provision made to prevent the spreading of the
Small-Pox in the Army, -

18, Militia of the neighbouring Towns ordered to

march forthwith to Cambridge, - - .
Order for their march countermanded; but are

required to be in readiness to give assistance

when called upon, ....
Town of Waltham required to send their Town

stock of Powder to Watertown, -

19, Hospitals provided for the Colony Army, -
Officers for a Company of Artificers in the

Regiment of Artillery, ...
Congress requested to order the Selectmen of the
several Towns in the Colony to collect and
transmit the names of the persons killed or
wounded on the nineteenth day of April, and
at any time since, or that may hereafter be
killed or wounded in the unnatural contest
between Great Britain and the American Co-
lonies, 1356

20, Such of the Militia only are to march as are

called for by express orders of the Committee,

on any alarm that may take place, - - 1356

21, Appointment of Aids-de-Camp to the Generals

nhmended, ----.. 1357

•i'2. Town of Medford required to furnish Spades
and Shovels for the works begun on Winter
Hill, - - - - - - - 1357

Fourth Series. — Vol. II.

CXIV

1775.
June23, Colonels required to make immediate returns of

the Officers of their several Regiments, - 1357

Appointment of two Supervisors" of the Camp

recommended, 1357

Committee to examine the works carrying on, on

Prospect Hill, 1357

Cannon in Cambridge and Watertown, not
mounted, and all Military Stores not wanted,
to be removed forthwith to Newton, - - 1358
Letter to the Provincial Congress, recommending
the appointment of Supervisors of the Camps,
at Cambridge and Roxbury, - 1359

Hospital at Cambridge placed under the direction

of Dr. John \V7arren, .... 1359

Officers in Captain Craft's Company, in Colonel

Gridley's Regiment, 1360

Resolve of the Provincial Congress, of the 26th
instant, directing the Committee of Safety to
deliver Arms to such Officers as shall produce
orders therefor from General Ward, - - 1 360
Orders from General Ward to the Committee to
deliver Arms to Commanding Officers of Regi-
ments, J360

The Arms delivered by the Committee; but they
protest against the General's order, lest it
should be adduced in future as a precedent for
setting the Military power above the Civil, - 1360
Captain Samuel Russel Trevet discharged from
his arrest, which was made by a mistake of
one of the General Officers, - - - 1361

Congress requested to take speedy and effectual
measures to prevent the spreading of the Small-
Pox in the American Army, ... 1362
Colonel Palmer directed to attend the Committee,
and give them information relative to former
emissions of Bills of Credit, before they can
order a new emission, .... 1362

July 3, Edmund Quincy empowered to receive and
convey to the Committee certain Household
Goods and other effects of Thomas Hutchin-
son, and other enemies to the rights and liber-
ties of America, - 1364
An emission of Bills of Credit, amounting to one

hundred thousand Pounds, recommended, - 1365
Congress requested to have drawn up and trans-
mitted to England, a fair, honest and impar-
tial account of the Battle on the 1 7th of June,
to counteract the misrepresentations of General

Gage, 1366

Congress requested to recommend to the Grand
American Congress to seize and hold every
Crown Officer within the United Colonies, un-
til our friends, who have been seized by Gene-
ral Gage, be set at liberty and fully recom-
pensed for their loss and imprisonment, - - 1366
General Washington requested to issue an order
to suppress retailers of Spirituous Liquors with-
in and near the Camps, - - - - 1 367
The Inhabitants of the Colony, as they regard
the peace and welfare of the Country, are
requested to behave peaceably and quietly to-
wards Captain Jacob Rogers, late of Charles-
town, now of Reading, .... 1367
Appointment of four Master Armourers recom-
mended, 1368

Instructions to Officers of the Massachusetts-Bay
Forces, who are to go on the recruiting ser-
vice, sent to the Council of War for approval, 1368
Monsieur Viart, a prisoner, sent to Worcester, at

the request of General Washington, - - 1369
Committee appointed to draw up a true account

of the late Battle of Charlestown, - - 1369
Committee of Marblehead informed that five
Ships sailed this day from Boston, their des-
tination unknown, ..... 1369
Fifteen Prisoners taken on Long-Island, near
Boston, and sent by General Washington to
this Committee, who by their Commission have
no power to dispose of them, are sent to the
Provincial Congress, - 1370
Benjamin Guiilam appointed Master Armourer,
to superintend the repair of such part of the
Arms of the American Colony Army as be-
longs to this Colony, ----- 1370
Ten Prisoners taken some time past, at Machias,
and sent this day to the Committee by Gene-
ral Washington, sent to the Provincial Con-
gress, 1370

7,

H,

12,

13,

cxv

1775.
July 1

15,

CONTENTS.

17,

25,

4, Directions to the Selectmen and Committees in
the several Towns, to search lor and recover
the Goods and Household Furniture plun-
dered and carried off in the confusion occa-
sioned by the Battles of Lexington and Charles-
town, - - - - - - . "

Order for procuring such Medicines as are im-
mediately and absolutely necessary for the

Army, """"""."
Thomas Organ appointed to take charge of the

Colony DOfl

A Special Committee recommended to make pro-
vision for the reception, sustenance and sup-
port of the Poor of Boston and Cliailcstown, - 1372

Account of the late Battle of Charlestown, pre-
pared in obedience to a Resolution of the
Provincial Congress, presented, accepted, and
ordered to be transmitted to England, -

Letter to Arthur Lee, at London, enclosing the
preceding account, -

1371

- 1371

- 1372

1373
1376

1375
1375
1375
- 1379

MASSACHUSETTS PROVINCIAL CONGRESS.

.Way 31, The Provincial Congress, meets at Water-
town, ..-----

Joseph Warren chosen President, and Samuel
Freeman Secretary, -

List of the Members chosen by the several
Towns, -------

Thanks to Dr. Langdon for his excellent Sermon
delivered to the Congress this day.

Resolve of the last Congress for supplying the
Army with Chaplains, laid before the Clergy,
now in Convention at Watertown, - - 1380

Papers relative to the Fortresses at Ticonderoga,
&c., ordered to be laid before the Congress, - 1380

Mr. Phelps, the bearer of some of the 1'apers,
attended Congress, and gave them further in-
formation, ...--- 1380

Committee to take the Papers into immediate
consideration, - - - - - - 1 380

Committee to consider a Letter from the Com-
mittee of Correspondence for New- Hampshire
to the Committee of Newburyport, - - 1380
June 1, Report of the Committee on General Thomas's

Letter, 1380

Members appointed Monitors in the Congress, - 1381

Report of a Committee on providing for the Poor
of the Town of Boston, - - - - 1381

Committee to consider the proposal of the Clergy,
now in Convention at Watertown, - - 1381

Committee to consider the Letter from the Select-
men of Hopkinton, - - - - - 1381

Report of the Committee on the Letter from
New-Hamphire, recommending copies of it to
be sent to the Seaport Towns, - - - 1381

Committee to consider a Letter from the Commit-
tee of Safety of Salem, .... 1381

Report of the Committee approving the conduct
of Mr. Stephen Higginson, - ... 1382

Report of the Committee on the Papers relating
to Ticonderoga, ..... 1382

Letter to Colonel Benedict Arnold, approving
his acquisitions of Ticonderoga and Crown
Point, and request him to continue in command
over the Forces raised by this Colony, - - 1382

L"tter to the House of Assembly of Connect-
icut ; maintaining a post at Ticonderoga is of
the utmost importance, but in our distressing
situation have postponed sending further as-
sistance to Captain Arnold, - ... 1383

Letter to the Provincial Congress of New-
Hamphire, enclosing a Letter from Colonel
Arnold, commander of the Troops at Ticon-
deroga and Crown Point, and requesting their
aid in securing the Fortresses, ... 1383
2. Committee to bring iu a Resolve making further

provision for the Poor of the Town of Boston, 1384

Committee to consider a Memorial from the
County of Worcester, - - - . 1 384

Provision made for supplying the Army with
Chaplains, 1384

Committee to take into consideration the situation
and circumstances of the Seaport Towns and
Islands in this Colony, which are exposed to
the incursions and ravages of the enemy - 1384

Rev. William Gordon chosen Chaplain" to the
Congress 1385

1775.

Members added to the Committee appointed at
the last Congress, to draw up an easy and con-
cise method of making Saltpetre, -
June 3, Report of the Committee appointed to consider
the exposed condition of the Sea-Coast, -

Persons living in places exposed to be ravaged or
plundered are advised to remove their Hay and
Stock out of the reach of our implacable ene-
mies, .......

Committee to consider a Resolve of the Commit-
tee of Safety, for a re-enforcement of the Mas-
sachusetts Army, .....

Committee on a Letter from Col. James Easton,

Congress will make no objection to fitting out
Vessels for whaling voyages or for the West-
Indies, .......

Letter to the Receiver-General, requesting him

to attend and sign Notes, - - - -

4, Colonel Henshaw admitted to give an account of

his proceedings at Connecticut, where he was

sent on the affair of Ticonderoga,

Colonel Easton's Letter referred to the Committee
who are to confer with the Committee of Bafe-

CXVI

1385
1386

1380

1387
1387

ty to-morrow morning, - - . -

5, Petition from Truro, for Powder, read and dis-

missed, -------

Letter from Governour Trumbull, just received,
referred to the Committee of Safety,

Committee to confer with the Officers of the Ame-
rican Army, on preserving the health of the
Troops,

All Letters wrote to or by the avowed enemies of
this Country, which have or may come into
the hands of any person in this Colony, to be
laid before the Congress, ....

Committee to consider the proposal of Captain
Foster, for removing the Poor and their Goods
from Boston, ......

Committee to bring in another Resolve relating to
the Poor of Boston, -

Committee to bring in a Resolve for giving a cur-
rency to the Bills of Credit of all the Govern-
ments on the Continent, ....

Committee to consider the state of the Artillery
in general, ......

Mr. Sullivan directed to bring in a Resolve for
preventing the circulation of Bills of Credit
under a specified value, ....

Report of the Committee on giving currency to
the Notes of other Governments, - - -

Ordered to lie on the table till Mr. Sullivan
brought in the Resolve just ordered,

Committee on making an allowance of Provisions
to the Soldiers of the American Army, -

6, Committee on providing regular Supplies for the

Army, .......

Proceedings in the case of Colonel Jonathan

Brewer, on the complaint of the Committee of

Safety, - -

Report of the Committee on giving currency to

the Bills of Credit of the other Governments, -
Congress refuse a Commission to Mr. Jonathan

Brewer, as Colonel of a Regiment iu the Mas-

sachusetts Army, .....
Benjamin Edwards brought before the Congress

for uttering disrespectful expressions on their

decision in Colouel Brewer's case,
Report of the Committee appointed to bring in an

additional Resolve, to make provision for the

Poor of Boston, •

7, Committee to wait on General Ward, for a Re-

turn of the number of Men in the Massachu-
setts Army, ......

Committee on a Petition of the Inhabitants of
Machias, ----.-.

Committee to consider the Letters from the Stock-
bridge Indians, --...-

Petition from Colonel Brewer, and from several
Captains under him, -

Benjamin Edwards called in, and admonished by
the President, ......

Committee on a Memorial from the Selectmen of
Salem, -

Report of the Committee on giving currency to
the Bills of Credit of other Governments, read
and recommitted, -

Committee to confer with the Delegates from
New-Hampshire. .

1387
1387

1388

1388
1388
1389

. 1389

1389

1389
1390

1390
1390

1390
1390
1390
1390
1391

1391
1391

- 1392

1392

1392

1393
1393
1393
1393
1394
1394

1394

1301

CXVII

1775.

CONTENTS.

CXVIII

To-morrow afternoon assigned for choosing two
Major-Generals of the Massachusetts Army, - 1 394

Committee to collect the Letters of the late Go-
vernour Hutchinson, ----- 1394

Report of the Committee on the four Prisoners
from Dartmouth, - 1394

Report of the Committee on the Petition of the
Inhabitants of Machias, read and accepted, - J 395

Report of the Committee appointed to confer with
the Gentlemen from New-Hampshire, - - 1395

Letters directed to be written to the Colonies of
Connecticut, Rhode-Island, and New-Hamp-
shire, desiring them severally to appoint Com-
mittees, to meet one appointed by this Con-
gress, at Worcester, on the 28th instant, to
determine the number of Men to be raised on
the present emergency, by each of the New-
England Colonies, ----- 1395

Report of the Committee appointed to confer with
the Committee of Safety, on a re-enforcement
of the Army, 1395

Committee to consider the expediency of establish-
ing a number of small Armed Vessels, for the
protection of our trade and the annoyance of
our enemies, ------ 1396

Committee to consider at large on some measure
for commissioning the Officers of the Army, - 1396
June 8, Letter from the Committee of Arundel, with an
account of their taking a Sloop from Boston,
for Annapolis, - 1396

Report of the Committee appointed to confer with
the Committee of Safety, that it is inexpedient
for this Colony to augment the Forces already
raised by it, for the defence of the American Co-
lonies ; considered in Committee of the Whole,
and agreed to by the Congress, - - - 1396

Report of the Committee on commissioning Offi-
cers of the Army ; read and agreed to, - - 1396

Committee on a Petition from the County of
Cumberland, 1397

Letter to the Stockbridge Indians, - - - 1397

Selectmen of Stockbridge appointed a Committee
to send Messengers and Belts to the Indians, - 1397
9, Committee to consider what is proper to be done

with the Prisoners from Arundel, - - 1398

Resolutions of the Continental Congress, of the
17th and 29th of May, relative to exports to
the British Possessions, to be duly enforced, - 1398

Provisions may be sent to Nantucket, for the use
of the Inhabitants only, .... 1398

10, Report of the Committee on the Prisoners brought

from Arundel, 1399

Josiah Jones and Jonathan Hicks to be confined
in the Jail of Middlesex, ... - 1400

Committee to consider if Artificers may be neces-
sary for the Army in the pay of this Colony, 1 400

Committee on the appointment of Armourers for
the Massachusetts Army, - 1400

Allowance of Provisions for the Soldiers of the
Massachusetts Army, - - - - 1401

Monday next (12th instant) assigned for choosing
three Delegates, to meet those that may be sent
by the other New-England Colonies, - - 1401

Choice of two Major-Generals deferred to Mon-
day next, - - - - - - -1401

Committee to consider the expediency of establish-
ing a number of Armed Vessels, - - - 1401

11, Address to the Continental Congress; ordered to

be signed by Major Hawley, as Vice-Presi-
dent, and sent by express to Philadelphia, - 1401

12, Committee to consider some measure to prevent

the violation of the Sabbath, - 1402

Committee to consider the Petition of the Com-
mittee at Charlestown, .... 1402
Committee to prepare Instructions to the Dele-
gates to go to Ticonderoga, - - - 1 403
Committee to consider of some method to supply

the Surgeons of the Army with Medicines, - 1403
Letter to the Continental Congress, - - 1403

Exportation of Provisions prohibited, - - 1404
Report of Committee on supplying Surgeons

with Medicines, - ... 1404

Orders for the arrest of one Thompson, who is
about to sail from Salem to New-Providence,
for Provisions for the Army in Boston, - 1404

Committee chosen to meet the Committees of the
New-England Colonies at Worcester, on the

a instant. 1405

1775.

Committee chosen to go to Ticonderoga, to ex-
amine into the state of that Fortress, - - 1405

Motion made to reconsider the Resolve for choos-
ing a Committee to meet Committees of the
New-England Governments, at Worcester, - 1405
June 13, Letter from Governour Trumbull, enclosing a
Letter from Colonel Arnold, and three Resolves
of the Continental Congress; read and referred
to the Committee appointed to prepare Instruc-
tions to the Committee to repair to Ticonde-
roga, 1405

Twenty-three Regiments to be commissioned,
exclusive of the Regiment of Matrosses, - 1406

Committee to consider the Petition of Abner
Graves and others, ----- 1406

Resolves relating to the Convention of Commit-
tees at Worcester, reconsidered, - - - 1 406

Colonel John Whitcomb chosen First Major-
Genera 1, ------- 1406

Report of the Committee on the expediency of
establishing a number of Armed Vessels consi-
dered, and, after a very long debate, the further
consideration of it referred to Friday next, - 1407

Instructions to the Gentlemen chosen by this Con-
gress to repair to Ticonderoga, - - - 1407

Committee to consider the subject-matter of a
late extraordinary Proclamation of General
Gage, 1408

14, Abner Graves and others have leave to withdraw

their Petition, 1409

Committee to consider the Report of Col. Thomp-
son, and the Petition of Mr. Parry, - - 1409

First Thursday of July next appointed a day
of Fasting and Prayer throughout the Co-
lony, 1409

Committee to consider of the means for furnish-
ing those who are destitute of Arms in the
Massachusetts Army, .... 1409

Committee to Ticonderoga directed to revise the
papers relating to that Fortress, and to take
with them such as are not wanted by this Con-
gress, ------- 1409

Committee to consider the propriety of supplying
the Generals of the Massachusetts Army with
necessary Household Furniture, - - - 1409

Dr. Joseph Warren chosen Second Major-Gen-
eral, 1409

Resolve for a Day of Fasting recommitted, that
the following things might be mentioned :
blessing on the Continental Congress, unity of
the Colonies, health, fruitful seasons, &c, - 1410

Committee of Supplies directed forthwith to re- »
commend suitable persons for Officers in the
Train of Artillery, 1410

15, Orders for securing the Library and Apparatus

of Harvard College, 1410

Letter to the Continental Congress, to New- York,
and to the several Governments in New-Eng-
land, 1410

Houses to be taken for the Soldiers near the Camp
at Cambridge, if Tents cannot be had, - - 141 1

Inhabitants of several Towns requested to furnish
Fire-Arms for the use of the Army, - - 1411

Committee to consider the application of the Rev.
Dr. Langdon, - - - - - 1413

Report of the Committee appointed to consider
the claims and pretensions of several Colonels
in the Army, ------ 1413

16, Soldiers to be supplied with Rum on extraordi-

nary occasions, - - - ■- -1414
Committee to consider an augmentation of the

Army, a supply of Arms to the Soldiers, &c, 1414
Consideration of the Report on fitting out Armed

Vessels further postponed, - - - - 1414
Letter to General Whitcomb, requesting a more

explicit answer respecting his acceptance of

his appointment as Major-General, - - 1414
Report o( the Committee on the violation of the

Sabbath, 1415

Vessels laden with Cod Fish permitted to sail for

the West-Indies, - - - - - 1416

Report of the Committee appointed to consider

the late extraordinary Proclamation signed

Thomas Gage, 1416

Proclamation by the Provincial Congress, to be

printed and published throughout the Colony, 1416
Report of the Committee on the application of

Dr Langdon, 1419

1419

- 1420

- 1422

CXIX

1775.
June 1 7, Rpport of Committee on procuring Fire-Arms

and Powder from Philadelphia and elsewhere, 1419

Militia throughout the Colony requeued to hold
then* lvi-s in readim St to march at a minute's
warning: and the Inhabitants on the Sea-
Coast are requested to carry tin -ir Arms with
them on the Sabhath and other days when they
nni t for publick worship. -

Report of the Committee on the Resolves of the
Committee of Safety Relative te an augments
tion of the Army, supply of Arms, &c,

Letter from the President of the Continental Con-
gress, anil a Resolve containing several rm.nii-
mendations to this and the other Colonies;
brought by express, -

Committee appointed to call tog-ether the Mem-
bers of this Congress, in any extraordinary
emergency, at any other time or to any other
place than that to which it may stand adjourned, 1422

Committees to purchase Fire-Anns in the several
Counties. ......

18, Records and Papers of the Provincial Congress
to be secured and taken care of, at the discre-
tion of the Secretary, -

Committee to prepare a Letter to the Continental
Congress, on the late attack of the King's
Troops at Bunker's Hill, - - - -

Committee of Supplies directed to write to Rhode'
Island and New-Hampshire for Powder,

Committee to see that the Army at the Intrench-
ments be well supplied with victuals and drink,

Report of the Committee on establishing Officers
to take care of the Ordnance Stores,

President of this Congress to be chosen this
afternoon, in place of the Honourable Joseph
Warren, supposed to be killed in the late
battle at Bunker's Hill, ....

Report on the Resolve of the Continental Con-
gress for establishing Civil Government in
this Colony; read, debated, and deferred till
Dr. Church, who was at Philadelphia when
the Resolve passed, shall be present,

James Warren chosen President of the Congress,

To-morrow morning assigned for considering the
Report on fitting out Armed Vessels, -

The Secretary directed to subscribe the name of
the late President to all Commissions bearing
date on the 19th of May, ....

Committee of .Supplies directed to furnish desti-
tute Soldiers with Clothes and Blankets,

Fifteen hundred good Spears to be immediately
furnished to the Army at Cambridge, -

20, Report of the Committee on the Petition of Col.

Phinney, recommending the establishment of
a Regiment to guard the Sea-Coast in the
County of Cumberland, ....

Laid on the table till the matter respecting
Armed Vessels is considered, ...

Committee to purchase Spears for the Array, -

Report of the Committee on the Resolve of the
Continental Congress respecting Government, 1425

Letter to the several Towns in the Colony, re-
questing them to elect Representatives to an
Assembly to meet the 19th day of July next,- 1426

Report on the expediency of establishing Armed
Vessels further considered, debated, and ordered
to subside for the present, .... 1426

Another Hospital for the sick and wounded of
the Army established, - . . .

Committee to confer with four Indians this day
arrived from Penobscot, under the conduct of
John Line, -

Committee to inquire into the grounds of a report
which has prevatled in the Army that there
has been treachery in some of the" Officers, -

Colonel Heath chosen a Major-General -

Letter to the Continental Congress

Letter to General Ward, requesting to send one
or more Regiments from Roxbury to Cam-
bridge, - - . . .

21, Commission to Major-Gcneral Heath, . \
Committee to consider the expediency of remov-
ing Colonel Glover's Regiment from Marble-
head to Cambridge, .

Resolution relative to the Estates of Refine
(S> «• Note,) ....

Address fiom an Indian Chief of the Penoba
1 ribe, .

scot

CONTENTS. exx

1 7 7 ."i .

Committee to inquire into the present want of
discipline in the Massachusetts Army, - - 1432

Joseph Fry chosen Third Major-General, - 1433

Report of the Committee to consider the request
of the Penobscot Indians, now at Watertown, 1433

Commissions for the Officers of the Train of
Artillery directed to be prepared and deliver-
ed, 1433

Junc22, Proclamation for a Fast recommitted for amend-
ment, 1434

Committee to consider the propriety of commis-
sioning the Officers of Colonel Gerrish's Re-
giment, ....... 1435

Report of the Committee on the means by which
the Army before Boston may be most expedi-
tiously strengthened, ..... 1435

Corn and Ammunition to be furnished the Inha-
bitants on Penobscot River, &c, - - - 1436

23, Rank of the Officers in Colonel Gridley's Regi-
ment, ....... 1436

Report of the Committee appointed to consider
the state of Colonel Phinney's Regiment, - 1437

Committee to take into consideration the Regi-
ment that was moved from Marblehead to
Cambridge, 1437

Committee to consider of proper expedients to
augment the Army, and to write to the other
New-England Governments on the subject, - 1438

Report of the Committee appointed to inquire
into the misconduct in the late Engagement, - 1438

Committee of Safety directed to make out a new
list for Officers of the Train of Artillery, and
that no person unworthy of that office be
appointed, ...... 1438

Payment ordered to Mr. John Lane for his
expenses in bringing up four Chiefs of the
Penobscot Tribe of Indians, ... 1438

Town of Maiden authorized to defend themselves
in case of an attack from the enemy, - - 1439

Former vote respecting the removal of the Li-
brary and Apparatus reconsidered, and another
adopted, 1439

Letter to General Ward, directing him to order
eight Companies, now posted in Plymouth, to
join the Army before Boston, ... 1440

Robert Haskell permitted to go from Beverly to
Nova-Scotia in a Fishing Vessel, - - 1440

24, Committee to consider some method of regulating
Trade with the Indians, .... 1440

Committee to consider what further is necessary
to be done respecting Bills of Credit of the
Colony, - - 1440

Establishment for Surgeons of Hospitals, - 1440

Committee to get the Resolve for a Fast printed, 1441

Captain John Lane admitted to the floor of the
House, to answer such questions as the Con-
gress shall propose to him, - - - 1441

Report of the Committee appointed to prepare a
Letter to the Governour of Rhode- Island, - 1442

Committee to consider a Letter from General
Ward, informing of the desertion of Lieutenant
Cox, of Salem, ------ 1442

Report of the Committee appointed to consider
the expediency of stationing part of Colonel
Phinney's Regiment in Cumberland and Lin-
coln, ....... 1442

Proclamation for a Fast suspended, - - 1442

Report of the Committee on the desertion of
Lieutenant Cox, ..... 1442

Committee to consider what steps should be taken
for receiving General Washington with proper
respect, ....... 1443

Report of the Committee to consider of an ade-
quate allowance for Captain John Line, - 1443

Colonel Porter directed to have a Scythe fixed
on a Spear, in such manner as he thinks fit,
and bring it before the Congress when fixed, 1443

Committee appointed to procure Spears empow-
ered to order Blacksmiths to work on the
Sabbath, 1443

Report of the Committee appointed to regulate
Trade with the Indians, .... 1443

Rev. Mr. Gordon chosen to preach an Election
Sermon, on the 19th of July next, - - 1444

25, Committee to procure Shovels and Spades for the
Army immediately, .... - 1444

Honorary commission to Mr. Gil man, Interpre-
ter to the Penobscot Indiana, ... 1444

1422

1422

1423

- 1423

1423
1423

1424

1424
1424

1424

1424

- 1425

1425

1425

1425
1425

1427

1427

1428
1428
1429

1430
1430

- 1431

ini

- 1132

CXXI

1775.

CONTENTS.

CXXII

Mr. Oilman instructed to cultivate a friendly dis-
position in the Indians, and to forward such
intelligence respecting the Indians and Cana-
dians as he can procure,

Detachment sent for the protection of the Eliza
beth Islands, ------

Letter to the Governour of Connecticut, -

Committee on the reception of General Wash
ington report; the Report laid on the table,

Letter from the Committee of Machias, respect
ing the capture of a King's Cutter,
June2Q>, Committee appointed to consider the conduct of
Colonel Thompson, at Kennebeck, directed to
consider also his conduct at Falmouth to Capt.
Mowatt and Captain Coulson,

The Secretary directed to sign the Commis-
sions of the Officers of the Train, except John
Wiley's, Samuel Gridlev's and John Callen-
dor's. - - - - - - •

Committee appointed to inquire into a report that
there has been treachery in some of the Offi-
cers, directed to proceed in their inquiries,

Report of the Committee on the reception of
General Washington again considered, amend-
ed, and accepted, -

Report of the Committee on the Letter from Ma-
chias, .......

Committee to consider a Letter from Gen. Ward,

Committee to meet Generals Washington and
Lee, at Springfield, .....

Two Companies raised in New- York and Con-
necticut permitti d to join Colonel Patteison's
Regiment, ......

General Whitcomb attended, was sworn, and re-
ceived his Commission as Major-General of
the Massachusetts Army, - - -

Petition from the Committee for the Town of
Plymouth, (Note,)

Committee on the Petition from Plymouth,

Directions for delivering out the Arms procured
by a Committee of this Congress,

Committee to consider measures for the defence
and protection of the Sea-Coast,

Report of the Committee on the conduct of Col.
Thompson at Falmouth, -

27, Committee on a Letter from Albany, ■ -
Report of Committee on General Ward's Letter

accepted, and afterwards recommitted, toge-
ther with the Resolve relating to absconding
Soldiers, ------

Letter from Isaac Stone, relative to Francis
Moore, ------

Committee to consider General Thomas's Letter,
relative to furnishing the American Prisoners
in Boston with Provisions,

Committee on the Letters brought by Mr. Pal
frey from England, -

Four Members added to the Committee of Sup-
plies, ......

Colonel William Henshaw and Samuel Brewer
chosen Adjutant-Generals of the Massachu-
setts Army, -

Committee to prepare an Address to the several
Towns in the Colony, to furnish the Army
with Powder, - - - - -

Petition from the Committee of Goldsborough,
&c, (Note,)

Report of Committee on the Petition,

Pay of Officers and Soldiers to commence at the
time of their enlistment, - - - -

Resolve of yesterday, relating to the distribu-
tion of Fire-Arms, reconsidered, amended, and
adopted, -------

Report of the Committee on furnishing the Pri
soners in Boston with Provisions,

Report on protecting the Sea- Coast again read
and considered, and, after debate, further post-
poned, .-----.

28, Five or three may be a quorum of the Commit-

tee of Supplies, -

Letter to the Committee of Albany,
Report of Committee on absconding Soldiers read

and recommitted, . - . . .
Report of Committee on giving a currency to

the Notes or Bills of Credit of the Colony,

read and recommitted, - - - -

Report of Committee on defence of the Sea-Coast

again considered, amended and accepted,

- 1444

1445
1445

- 144G

- 1446

- 1446

- 1447

- 1447

- 1447

1448
1448

1448

1448

- 1448

1449
1449

1449

- 1450

1450
1450

- 1450
s

- 1450

- 1451
1451

- 1451

- 1451

- 1452

1452
1452

1452

1453

- 1454

1454

1454
1454

1455

1455
1456

1775.

1461
1461

1461

1462

Report of Committee on saving Provisions in
the Army, 1456

Committees to station the Troops in the Counties
of Essex and York, 1456

Committee to give out Listing Orders, - - 1456

Measures adopted for the defence and protection
of the Sea-Coast, 1456

Report of Committee relative to absconding Sol-
diers considered and accepted, ... 1457

Form of Warrant for the Surgeons, - - 1458

Committee on preventing the unnecessary ex-
penditure of Gunpowder, - - - - 1458

Report of the Committee on making the Notes
and Bills of Credit of this and the other Co-
lonies a tender, again considered, amended,
and adopted, ------ 1458

Time of the commencement of pay to Officers,
Soldiers and Minute-Men, fixed, - - 1460

June 29, Committee to prepare an Address to Generals
Washington and Lee, on their arrival at Cam-
bridge, ------- 1460

Selectmen of the several Towns to supply the
Soldiers stationed on the Sea-Coast with Pro-
visions, ------- 1460

Ltters brought by Ensign Campbell, late from
England, now a prisoner at Concord, address-
ed to gentlemen in the Colonies, to be sent to
the Officers of the Troops of the respective
Colonies, ------

Committee to search Ensign Campbell, -

Address to the Counties of Hampshire and Wor-
cester, requesting to supply Powder for the
Army, -------

Doctor William Whiting directed to go to New-
York, and procure from Doctor Graham in-
structions for making Saltpetre, - - -
30, Major Hawley to bring in a Resolve directing
the Committee of Safety to inquire into the
expediency of a further emission of Bills of
Credit. Report presented and accepted,

Committee to inquire into the expediency of con-
tinuing the Lights in the Light-houses at Cape
Ann, Boston and Plymouth,

Jabez Matthews admitted to give an account of
his embassy to Qucbeck, - - - -

Form of Commissions, Beating Orders and En-
listments, for Troops employed for the defence
of the Sea-Coast, . - - - -

Instructions to the Committees appointed to pro-
cure Powder from the Counties of Hampshire
and Worcester, . . - - -

Li3t of Towns required to furnish the Powder, -
July 1 , Provision made for the Poor of Charlestown, -

Deputy-Commissaries for the Massachusetts
Army,

General Ward directed to order two Companies
to Plymouth, ------

Regulations for trial of offences by any of the
Troops for the defence of the Sea-Coast,

A number of Letters from London received and
referred to a Committee, - - - -

Letter to the Governour and Company of Con-
necticut, - - - - - - . -

Receiver-General directed to pay out of the Trea-
sury the Bills of Credit of other Colonies,

Accommodations for the Sick and Wounded of
the Colony Army provided, -

Address to General Washington, - - -

His Excellency's Answer, - - - -

Address to General Lee, - - - -

His Honour's Answer, - -

Report of the Committee on securing the Whale-
Boats belonging to the Colony, - - -
Report of the Committee on removing and secur-
ing the Lamps of the Light-houses,

Petition of Joseph Barrell, Jate of Boston,

Letter from Alexander Shepard, Jun., to the Com-
mittee of Safety, - - -

Report of the Committee for elevising means for
the support of the Poor of Boston and Charles-
town, -------

3, Committee of Safety directed to report, as soon as
possible, on the expediency of a new emission
of Bills of Credit,

Committee to confer with the Members from the
New-Hampshire Congress,

Petition of the Selectmen of Abington for aid in
supporting the Poor of Boston, - - -

8,

146S

- 1463
1464

1464

1466
1467
1468

- 1468
1469

- 1469
1470
1470

- 1471

1472
1472
1473
1473
1474

- 1474

1474
1475

1476

1476

1476
- 1477

1477

CXXIII

1775.

CONTENTS.

CXXIV

7,

B,

Letter from Colonel Grid Icy. complaining of thi lr
appointment of persona not recommended by
him for 1 1 the Artillery. - •

No more Commissions, for the present, to be de-
livered to Offieara to the Colony Army,

Committee to tike into consideration the conduct
0f (j. Nantucket, -

Letter from the Congress of New-Hampshire,
dated July 3, enclosing two Letters from Dr.
Wneeloct and a Committee m Hanover,
U Govemour Trumbull, - -

Committ"*- m wait upon General Washington, to
know if he has any matter to lay before tig-
ress, -

List of Surgeons and Mates,

Form of Warrant for a Medical Commissary, -

Late Inhabitants of the Town of Boston au-
thorized to choose Representatives to the As-
sembly, - - - - ' ', r, '

Report of the Committee on the request of den.
Washington to make a Drawbridge of the
Bridge at Cambridge, - -

Report of the Committee to consider of the Do-
nations for the Poor of Boston recommitted, -

Petition from Colonel Jonathan Brewer, -

Report of the Committee on the Petition of
eighteen Stockbridge Indians,

Mr. Shepard requested to retain in his hands all
the Plans he hath of the Province of Maine, -

Report on the Donations for the Poor of Boston
again made and recommitted, -

Committee appointed, with authority to convene
the General Assembly earlier than the 19th
instant, -------

Letter from James Winthrop, resigning his ap-
pointment as Postmaster at Cambridge,

Letter to General Washington, enclosing a Re
solution relative to the Sick and Wounded,

Report of the Committee for supplying Coats for
the Army, ...---

Proportion of the thirteen thousand Coats to be
supplied by the respective Towns,

Committee of Supplies empowered to impress
the Saw-Mill at Watertown, or any other Mill
they may have occasion for,

Letter from Colonel John Fenton, a prisoner
from New- Hampshire, requesting he may be
removed to Cambridge and tried,

Vote of Thanks to the Committee who have re-
turned this day from their embassy to Ticon-
deroga, - - - - - - -

Committee to consider a Resolve of the Commit-
tee of Safety, recommending the seizing of
Crown Officers, - - - .

Committee of Safety appointed a Committee to
draw up and transmit to Great Britain a fair
and impartial account of the Battle at Charles-
town,

Report of the Committee on the Resolve of the
Committee of Safety, relative to a new emis-
sion of Bills of Credit, - - - -

Report of the Committee on the application of
Daniel Murray to General Washington for
permission to go into Boston, ...

Letter from General Ward, requesting Clothing
for the Array, ------

Letter to Colonel Easton, at Ticonderoga,

Report of the Committee to consider some me-
thod to prevent supplying our enemies with
Provisions, ------

Report of the Committee on Clothing for the
Army, -------

Report of the Committee appointed to consider
the conduct of the People of Nantucket,

Permission given to the Committee of Machias
to fit out an Armed Vessel for their defence, -

Report of the Committee on the Petition of Colo-
nel Jonathan Brewer, -

Letters from or to any person in the Continental
Army in Massachusetts, free of postage,

Letter to the Congress of New- Hampshire,

Report of the Committee on a Letter from < iene-
ral Greene, ---...
Mtion explanatory of the Resolve of the 21st
of June, relative to the Estates of Rerugi
The Continental Congress to be requested to or-
der the seizure of every Crown Officer in the
Colonies, -----..

1775.

1477
1478

- 1479

1479
1480

1481
1481
1481

1481

1482

1483
1483

1483

1484

- 1484

1484

1485
- 1485

1485
1486

- 1488

1489

1490

- 1490

1491

- 1491

1492

1493
1494

1494

1495

1495

1495

1496

1497
1498

1499

1499

1590

1501

1501

1502
'- 1503

1504

1504

1504

1505
- 1506

1506

1507
1507
1508

- 1508

Letter from John Scollay, relative to the Poor of
the Town of Boston, 1500

Letter from four Indian Chiefs, at Falmouth, to
Ephraiin Oilman, (Note.) - 1501

Jedediah Preble and Enoch Freeman empowered
supply the Penobscot Indians with Goods, -

Report of the Committee on the Letter of John
Scollay, 1

Report of the Committee on the Towns to be ap-
plied to for Shirts and Breeches for the Army,

Additional Resolve, relative to the Poor of Bos-
ton, adopted, - - - - - -

Letter to the Continental Congress, requesting
the seizure of Crown Officers,

John Lane, Agent for the Penobscot Tribe of In-
dians, authorized to supply them with Powder, 1503

Letter from General Lee, requesting their appro-
bation of his interview with Gen. Burgoyne, 1504

Committee appointed to consider the Letter, and
Elbridge Gerry appointed to accompany Gene-
ral Lee at the interview, - - , -

Committee on a Letter from General Washing-
ton, on the deficiency in the strength of the
Army, - - - -

Letter to General Lee, agreeing to his proposed
interview with General Burgoyne,
July 1 1 , Report of the Committee relative to Donations for
the Poor of Boston, considered and accepted, -

Report of the Committee appointed to consider
the circumstances of the Town of Hull,

Committee to confer with General Washington,
on a temporary re-enforcement of the Army, -

Committee to devise some means of raising speed-
ily a temporary re-enforcement, -

Memorial of William Hunt, - - - -

12, Letter to Governour Trumbull, ...
Able-bodied Men requested to return to their re-
spective Seaport Towns, to protect them from
the ravages of the enemy, - - -

Letter from Captain Noble, dated Pittsfield, July
3, with a roll of his Company, at Ticonderoga, 1508

Letter from General Washington referred to the
Committee on the temporary re-enforcement, 1509

Report of the Committee on the situation of the
publick stock of Powder, - - - - 1 509

Committee to enlarge the Commission of the
Committee of Safety, .... 1509

Letter from the Committee of Safety, requesting
Congress to appoint a Special Committee to
make provision for the Poor of Boston and
Charlestown, - - . - - - - 1509

Report of the Committee for a temporary re-en-
forcement, considered, and, after much debate,
recommitted, ------ 1509

Letter to Captain James Noble, ... 1510

Committee on a temporary re-enforcement again
reported: Report amended and accepted, - 1510

Resolves for a temporary re-enforcement, - 1510

Letter to the Military Officers, &c, of the several
Towns, requesting them to raise and forward
to the Camp immediately, their proportions of
Men, for the temporary re-enforcement, - 1511

13, Letter from General Washington's Secretary,

dated nine o'clock, P. M., July 12, - -1512

Resolve passed yesterday, for a re-enforcement,
reconsidered, - - - - - -1512

Killing of Sheep or Lambs prohibited, excepting
in cases of absolute necessity, till the further
order of this Congress, - - - - 1514

Soldiers enlisting in more than one Company
required to return to the first Company they
enlisted in, - - - - - -1515

Report of the Committee on disposing of ten
Prisoners taken on Long- Island, in the Har-
bour of Boston, ----- 1515

Commission of the Committee of Safety, - - 1515

Ten Prisoners, taken at Machias, sent to the Jail
in Worcester, - - - - - -1516

Committee of Supplies authorized to grant relief,
out of the publick stores, to the Inhabitants of
the eastern parts of the Colony, - - - 1518
19, Congress dissolved, - - - - - 1518

CORRESPONDENCE, PROCEEDINGS, ETC.

Jul;/ 1, Letter from Lord Dartmouth to General Gage
The rebellious conduct of the Provincials, on
the 19th of April, will evince to the world the

cxxv

1775.

CONTENTS.

justice of the measures the King has adopted,
and in which His Majesty will firmly perse-
vere, -------

July 1, Letter from a Gentleman in London to his friend
in Virginia. The real friends of America
wish they had acted with more temper and less
violence; the King has recommended concilia-
tory measures, but whether they will be suffi-
cient to allay the ferment on your side of the
water time only will show, - - - -

1, Letter from London to a Gentleman in Philadel-
phia. The spirit displayed by all the Colonies
give great satisfaction to all the friends of
America. Substance of a conversation with
Lord North,

1, Letter from the South-Carolina Delegates in the
Continental Congress, to the Secret Committee

in Charlestown,

Address delivered to the Inhabitants of a Coun-
ty in Virginia, assembled for the purpose of
choosing Deputies to represent them in Colony
Convention, -

1, Letter from the Committee of Yorktown, Penn-
sylvania, to the Pennsylvania Delegates in
Congress. Have raised a Company of Rifle-
men, and recommend Officers for them,

1, Letter from General Schuyler to General Wash-
ington. The Connecticut Troops, under Gene-
ral Wooster, are encamped within two miles
of New- York. No preparation has yet been
made to occupy a post in the Highlands. He
will leave New- York for Ticonderoga on
Monday next, - - - - -

1, Letter from Edward Fleming to the New- York
Congress. Declines accepting the appoint
ment of Lieutenant-Colonel, in Colonel James
Clinton's Regiment, - - - -

1, Letter from S. Sp. Skinner, New- York, to a
Nobleman in England. On the policy of the
British Government towards the Colonies, and
the disposition and the ability of the Colonies
to resist, -------

1, Letter from the Congress of Massachusetts to the
Assembly of Connecticut, requesting the em-
bargo in Connecticut may be taken off, so far
as to permit the Inhabitants of the eastern parts
of Massachusetts to purchase Provisions, they
being reduced to the alternative of starving
or supplying the Ministerial Troops, either of
which they deprecate, -

1, Recantation of James Ball, of Warwick, Massa
chusetts, -------

New- Hampshire Committee of Safety, - 1765

Letter from General Folsom to the New-Hamp-
shire Committee of Safety, - - - -

Letter from the New- Hampshire Committee of
Safety to General Folsom, - - - -

Letter from the New-Hampshire Committee of
Safety to Colonel Reid. Refuse to recall the
Commission to Mr. McGregore, as Adjutant
of his Regiment, and insist upon it that their
appointments take place, - - - -

Letter from General Schuyler to the President
of Congress. Has had a conference with the
New- York Congress on employing the Green
Mountain Boys; and expects they will employ
five hundred of them ; from the accounts of
Colonel Guy Johnson's conduct it is appre-
hended that the Inhabitants of the western
part of New- York and New- Jersey, and the
northern parts of Pennsylvania will be exposed
to insults from the Savages, - - -

2, Letter from General Gates to General Washing-
ton, --------

3, Meeting of Committee of Inspection for Balti-
more Town; Henry Lloyd, of Boston, declared
a wilful violator of the Continental Associa-
tion, -------

3, Dorchester County, Maryland, Committee, pro-
hibit the selling of any Merchandise brought to
the County, without a proper Certificate that
it was imported agreeable to the Continen-
tal Association, -

3, Letter from John Alsop, Philadelphia, to the
New- York Congress, -

3, Letter from John Langdon, Philadelphia, to the
New-Hampshire Congress. General Sullivan
has left for home; the Riflemen will inarch

1517

1517

1518
1519

- 1520

1524

- 1525

- 1526

1526

■z,

■ 1470

1528
1768

1524

1529

1530

1439
1531

1531

1532
1532

1775.

July 3,
3,

3,

3,

3,

3,
3,

3,

3,

3,

exxvr

this week for Cambridge; the Powder Mills
are going on fast; an effort will be made to
import large quantities of Powder; Cannon
should not be used, if it can be avoided, until
there is a better supply of Powder, - - 1533

Committee of Philadelphia have undertaken to
erect a Saltpetre Manufactory, ... 1533

Letter from the New- York Congress to the Com-
mittee of Albany, with fifty quarter casks of
Gunpowder, sent by the Continental Congress
for the use of the Forts at Ticonderoga and
Crown Point, ------ 183(5

Proclamation of Governour Tryon, to postpone
the meeting of the Assembly to the ninth of
August, 1533

Address of the Mayor, Aldermen, and Common-
alty of New- York, to Governour Tryon, - 1534

Governour Tryon's Answer to the Address, - 1534

Letter from General Schuyler to the Continental
Congress. The People called Green Mountain
Boys are the inhabitants of the northeastern
parts of Albany County, Charlotte County, and
the New- Hampshire Grants; occupying the
country from near Albany to forty or fifty miles
north of Crown Point; but it has been so lately
settled that not more than five hundred Men
can be raised there. The Troops at his com-
mand are inadequate to the enterprise he is
ordered to undertake, and which he is not at
liberty to desist from without orders to the con-
trary, ------- H5S5

Letter from General Schuyler to the Continental
Congress. The information he has just received
of the nefarious designs of Colonel Johnson, and
the temper of the Indians, is so important that
he has sent Mr. Kirkland, who brought him
the information, to the Congress, - - 1536

Letter from General Schuyler to the New-York
Congress: enclosing a list of Military Stores,
Provisions, &c, which he requests may be sent
to Albany, for which place he leaves New-
York to-morrow, ----- 1536

Letter from the New- York Committee of Secrecy
to the Massachusetts Congress, informing them
of the sailing of a Vessel from Scotland, bound
to Salem, 1537

Letter from Peter T. Curtenius to the New- York
Congress, ------ 1537

S. Patrick to the New- York Congress; has a
Furnace now in blast, and will deliver Iron Ball
of any dimensions, any where on the North
River, for fifteen pounds per ton, - - 1538

Letter from Colonel Hinman, at Ticonderoga, to
the New- York Congress. The Fortresses at
Fort George and Ticonderoga cannot be main-
tained against Artillery. He is almost destitute
of Powder, and it is not improbable that a suffi-
cient force may be sent from Canada to take
these Posts if supplies are not sent him,

Address of the principal Inhabitants on Lake
Champiain to Benedict Arnold, Commander-
in-Chief of an Expedition to Lake Champiain,
for taking the Fortresses on said Lake,

Answer of Colonel Arnold to the very respect-
able Inhabitants on Lake Champiain, -

Letter to the Continental Congress, from Walter
"Spooner, one of the Committee from the Massa-
chusetts Congress to Ticonderoga. It is of the
utmost importance to New- York and the New-
England Colonies that the Posts there should
not fall into the hands of the enemy, and that
we should have the command of Lake Cham
plain, ------

Letter from Walter Spooner to the New- York
Congress. All possible care should be taken to
keep the command of Lake Champiain, which
may most easily be effected by Armed Vessels.
A most dangerous mutiny was set on foot by
persons employed by Colonel Arnold, an officer
of Massachusetts, which was suppressed by the
influence of Judge Duer, of Charlotte County,
New- York, and the principal officers of the
Connecticut Forces, 1539

Letter from Walter Spooner to Governour Trum-
bull. When the Committee arrived at Crown
Point they informed Colonel Arnold that he
must give up the command to Colonel Hin-
inun ■ this he refused, declared he would a

- 1538

1088
1088

- 1539

cxxvu

1775.

CONTENTS.

CXXVIII

be second to any man, disbanded his forces,
and resigned In? commission, ... 1540
July 3, Letter from the New-Hampshire Congress to the
Massachus " -. with information from

i oada: if any plan of operation towards, or in
( lanada, is suitable, they wish to act in concert
with the oi tries in the neighbourhood, 1479

3, Letter from Goveroour Wentworth to Theodore
Atkinson. Has occasion for the Books of Char-
ters in th( fa < »fiSce, and desires they

may be sent him, 1541

3, Letter from the New-Hampshire Congress to the

Massachusetts Congress, enclosing copies of

rs froi«» Or. Wheelock, dated Dartmouth

College, June 26, and from the Committee in

Hanover, dated June 27, - - - - 1541

GEORGIA PROVINCIAL CONGRESS.

July 4, The Congress meets at Savannah, - - -
List of the Members elected, -

Archibald Bullock chosen President, and George

Walton Secretary, - - - - -
Congress attend the Meeting-House of the Rev.

Dr. Zubly, where he preached a Sermon on

the alarming suite of American affairs,
Thanks of the Congress to Dr. Zubly for his

excellent Sermon, -

5, Message to the Govemour by a Committee, that

he will appoint a day of Fasting and Prayer,
to be observed throughout the Province,

Proceedings of a Meeting at Savannah, on the
13th of June, laid before the Congress,

Motion, that this Congress put the Province upon
the same footing with the other Colonies, to
be considered to-morrow, - - - -

6, Order of the Day read, and considered, -
Resolved unanimously, that this Province will

adopt and carry into execution all and singular
the measures and recommendations of the late
Continental Congress, -

Other Resolutions regulating the conduct of the
Colony, ......

7, Govemour Wright's Answer to the Message of

the Congress ; he will appoint a day of Fast-
ing and Prayer, .....

Committee to convey the Thanks of the Congress
to the Govemour, -

Delegates to the Continental Congress chosen, -

Dr. Zubly declines accepting the appointment of
Delegate, without the approbation of his Con-
gregation, ......

Secret Committee appointed, ....

Dr. Zubly appointed to prepare and bring in a
Petition to the King, .....

Committee appointed to prepare a Letter to the
President of the Continental Congress, inform-
ing him of the Proceedings of this Congress,

Committee appointed to prepare an Address to
the Govemour, -

8, Ten Thousand Pounds Sterling appropriated for

the service of the Province, in the present
alarming and distracted state of affairs, -
Petition to the King presented and approved of, -
Committee of Intelligence appointed,
Letter to the President of the Continental Con-
gress presented and approved of, -

10, Resolutions adopted unanimously, declaring their

rights, their allegiance to the King, their union
with the Colonies, and their determination to
enforce the Resolutions of the Continental and
Provincial Congresses, ...

1 1, Committee report the assent of Dr. Zubly's

Congregation to his appointment, and that they
are willing to spare him for a time, for the
good of the common cause, ....
Address to the Govemour reported, agreed to,
and a Committee appointed to present it,

12, Ways and Means to raise and sink Ten Thousand

Pounds Sterling, considered in Committee of
the Whole, ......

Congress while sitting, and the Council of Safe-
ty in its recess, empowered to issue Certificates
to the amount of Ten Thousand Pounds Stori-
ng,

Persons who may refuse to receive such Certifi-
cates in payment to be considered enemies of
the Province, and treated accordingly, -

1543
1543

1543

1543
1543

1543

- 1544

1545
1545

1545

1545

1547

1547
1547

1547
1547

1547

1547

- 1547

1548
1548
1548

1548

- 1548

1550

- 1550

1551

- 1551

1551

1775.

JulyXo, Association entered into at Savannah, on the 5th
of June last, approved of, and adopted by the
Congress, - - - - - - 1551

Committee to present the Association to all the

Inhabitants of Savannah, to be signed, - - 1552

14, Committee appointed to consider and report upon

the qualifications of voters for Delegates to the
Provincial Congress, and an equal representa-
tion, ....... 1552

Directions to Magistrates relative to issuing sum-
monses and warrants, for the recovery of debts, 1552

Report of the Committee on the qualification of
voters and equal representation, presented and
adopted, 1552

Form of Credentials for Delegates to the Provin-
cial Congress recommended to the Inhabitants
of the several Parishes and Districts, - - 1552

15. Committee on the better governing the Militia

of the Province appointed, - - - - 1553
Committee appointed to communicate to the In-
habitants of the Province an account of the
disputes between Great Britain and the Colo-
nies, and the Proceedings of this Congress, - 1553
Delegates to a new Congress to be elected be-
tween the 20th of August and 1st of Septem-
ber, next, ----.-- 1553
Delegates for Savannah to be chosen on the 15th

of September, .--..- 1553
Delegates for Savannah, and such other Dele-
gates as may be there appointed, a General
Committee for the Province, - - - 1553

17, Rev. Haddon Smith declared to be unfriendly
to America, for refusing to join on a day of
Fasting and Prayer recommended by the Con-
gress, ....... 1554

Delegates appointed to go to Philadelphia, di-
rected to apply to the Continental Congress to
incorporate this Province with the other United
Provinces of America, .... 1554

Adjourned to the 19th day of August, unless
sooner convened by the General Committee, - 1554

25, Address to the Inhabitants of the Province of
Georgia, by the Committee appointed on the
15th instant, 1554

14, Letter from Archibald Bullock to George John-
stone, London, enclosing a Letter from the
Committee of Intelligence, ... - 1555

14, Letter from the Committee of Intelligence, for
Georgia, to George Johnstone, London, en-
closing a Petition to the King, ... 1555

14, Petition to the King, from the Provincial Con-
gress of Georgia, - - - - - 1556
4, The Law of Liberty: a Sermon preached before
the Provincial Congress of Georgia, at Savan-
nah, on the 4th of July, 1775, - - - 1557

July 4

4,

*,

4,

CORRESPONDENCE, PROCEEDINGS, ETC.

Letter from the Committee of Intelligence at
Charlestown, South-Carolina, to the Continen-
tal Congress, enclosing copies of intercepted
Letters from Lord Dartmouth to Governour
Wright of Georgia, Governour Martin of
North-Carolina, and to the Lieutenant-Go-
vernour of South-Carolina, dated March 3,
1775, - - - - - -

Letter from the Committee of Intelligence at
Charlestown to the Committee at Newborn,
North-Carolina, .....

Letter from the Committee of Intelligence at
Charlestown to the Committee at Savannah,
Georgia, -------

Account of the seizure of the Mail in Charles-
town, on the 2d of July, by the Secret Com-
mittee, with despatches from the Earl of Dart-
mouth to the Southern Governours, (Note,) -

Somerset County, Maryland, Committee, declare
James Dooe inimical to the Liberties of
America, ---.-..

List of Officers of the Green Mountain Boys, -

Letter from John N. Bleecker, with an account
of Provisions delivered over by him to Elisha
Phelps, at Albany, ....

Mr. Phelps's Warrant as Commissary, from the
Governour of Connecticut, - - -

Letter from William Schuyler to John Marlett
only one person in Warrensburgh. New-
York, has signed the Association, - - 1571

1567

1567

1568

1569

1569
1570

- 1570

- 1570

CXXIX

1775.

July 4,

CONTENTS.

cxxx

4,

4,
4,

4,
5,

5,
5,

7,

5,

Letter from Brook Watson, near Montreal, to
the New- York Congress. The Troops at
Fort George, Ticonderoga and Crown Point
talk and act as if it was determined they should
soon march to Quebeck. This cannot be the
intention of the General Congress ; if they
suffer the People to proceed to extremes no-
thing but the sword can determine the contest,

Letter from Governour Cooke to the Continen-
tal Congress. The Army of Rhode- Island,
near Boston, consists of thirteen hundred and
ninety effective Men; we are also equipping
two Armed Vessels, to carry one hundred Men,
exclusive of Officers; the Colony will exert
itself in unremitting efforts for the common de-
fence and safety, .....

Letter from the Massachusetts Congress to Go-
vernour Trumbull, -----

Letter from James Warren and Joseph Hawley to
Gen. Washington, relative to the appointments
of Generals Pomeroy, Heath and Thomas, -

Letter from the Committee of Correspondence
of Bradford to the Massachusetts Committee of
Safety, respecting Captain Gage's Company
deserting the cause of their Country, -

Letter from one of the Virginia Delegates, at
Philadelphia, to a friend n Williamsburgh.
The New-Englanders are fitting out Priva-
teers. They are now intent on burning Boston,
in order to oust the Regulars, and none are
more eager for it than those who have left
their whole property in it. Nobody now
doubts that we are able to cope with England,
if we exert ourselves, - - - -

New- York Committee of Secrecy and Inspection
report their examination of the Snow Christy,
from Greenock, .....

New- York Committee. Regulations for the
examination of Vessels from Great Britain or
Ireland, to prevent the introduction of Goods
prohibited by the Continental Association,

Account of Receipts and Expenditures on account
of the New- York Committee, ...

New- York Committee. Order for the arrest of
William McLeod, a British Officer,

Letter from Burnet Miller to the New- York
Congress. Requesting some Troops may be
stationed at Montauk, for their protection and
that of their stock, which is very large, and
much exposed to the ravages of our unnatural
enemy, -----.

Letter from Joseph Johnson, a Mohegan Indian,
at Hartford, complaining of the injury done
him by some white men and Indians in Con-
necticut, who charge him with having turned
a high Tory, .....

1571

1572
1480

1573
- 1648

1573

1574

1574
1575
1576

- 1577

i,
e
i-
d

- 1577

1775.

CONNECTICUT ASSEMBLY.

July 1, Connecticut Assembly meet at Hartford, - - 1579

List of the Members, 1579

Act in addition to the Act for the special defence
and safety of the Colony, .... 1580

Two additional Regiments, of seven hundred
Men each, to be enlisted, equipped, &c. - - 1581

Officers of the Seventh and Eighth Regiments, - 1681

Act for supplying the Troops ordered to be
raised for the special defence and safety of this
Colony, with necessary Fire-Arms, - - 1 582

Two Vessels to be immediately fitted out, and
armed with a proper number of Cannon,
Small-Arms and necessary warlike stores, for
the defence of the Sea-Coast of the Colony, - 1583

Governour directed to make a friendly answer to
the Speech of the Oneida Indians, - - 1584

Jabez Hamlin appointed to collect Saltpetre and
Sulphur, to be sent to the Powder Mills in
Dutchess County, New- York, ... 1584

Governour authorized to permit the exportation

of live Cattle, in certain cases, - - - 1584

Emission of Bills of Credit, to the amount of

Fifty Thousand Pounds, authorized, - - 1584

Captain Delaplace and others to be removed from

Hartford, 1585

Representation of Connecticut Officers to the As-
sembly, against the Continental arrangement
of Genera] Officers, which degrades General
Spencer from the rank he held, - 1585

Governour requested to write to the Connecticut

Fourth Series. — Vol. ii.

Delegates in the Continental Congress, remon-
strating against the promotion of Putnam over
Wooster and Spencer, .... 1585

Report of Benjamin Henshaw to the Committee
appointed to procure Lead for the use of the
Colony, and of his proceedings in quest of a
suitable Smelter or Refiner of Lead Ore, - 1586

Report of the Committee appointed to procure
Lead for the use of the Colony, - - - 1587

Committee appointed to examine the Lead Mines
in Woodbury, 1588

Committee appointed to work the Lead Mine in
Middletown, 1588

Report of the Committee on Indian Affairs; they
acquit Joseph Johnson of the charge made
against him of being unfriendly to America, - 1588

CORRESPONDENCE, PROCEEDINGS, ETC.

July 5, Letter from Joseph Hawley to General Wash-
ington. There are many brave Officers in
the Massachusetts Army, but there are some
whose characters are very equivocal with re-
spect to courage ; he suggests that a declara-
tion in general orders, that any Officer who
shall act the poltron in the day of battle shall
meet his deserts, whatever his rank, connexions
or interest may be, 1589

5, Committee of Duke's County, Massachusetts,

report on the conduct of the Towns of the
County, 1589

6, Address by the Meeting for Sufferings, held by

the Quakers in Philadelphia, for Pennsylvania
and New- Jersey, ----- 1590
6, Letter to the New- York Congress, from their
Delegates in Philadelphia. They have no-
thing more at heart than to be instrumental
in compromising the unnatural quarrel be-
tween the Colonies and Great Britain, and re-
ceive with gratitude the plan of accommoda-
tion with the Parent State, sent them by the
Provincial Congress, - - - - - 1591
6, Letter from the Committee of Elizabethtown,

New-Jersey, to the New- York Committee, - 1591
6, Captains appointed by the New- York Provincial
Congress for the enlistment of Volunteers, for
the defence of the Liberties of America, in the
first Battalion raised in the City of New- York, 1592
6, Letter from Edward Mott, at Albany, to Govern-
our Trumbull. Colonel Arnold, when he was
directed to deliver over the command of Ticon-
deroga and Crown Point to Colonel Hinman,
refused to do"so, and disbanded his Men, except
those he took with him on board the Vessels
on the Lake, which he seized, and threatened
to take them to St. John's, and deliver them up
to the Regulars. He also seized, confined and
abused the gentlemen who went to remon-
strate with him on his conduct, - - - 1 592
6, Letter from Ethan Allen to Governour Trum-
bull. Is now on his way from New- York, to
raise seven Companies of Green Mountain
Boys, under the authority of the Continental
and New- York Congresses, ... 1593
6, Letter from Captain Angus McDonald to Colonel
McDougall, complaining of his confinement in

Fairfield Jail, 1593

6, Letter from Governour Trumbull to General
Schuyler. Can supply him with no more
than fifteen thousand Pounds of Money, and
forty half barrels of Powder, ... 1594

Narrative and Remarks by a Gentleman who
left Montreal, in Canada, the 14th of June last;
enclosed by Gov. Trumbull to Gen. Schuyler, 1594
6, Report to the Massachusetts Congress, by their
Committee appointed to examine the Fortresses
of Ticonderoga and Crown Point, and their
condition for defence, .... 1596

Copy of the Warrant to Brown and Edwards to
supply the Massachusetts Troops at Ticonde-
roga, 1598

Order of the Committee to Colonel Arnold, dated
Crown Point, June 23, 1775, - - -1598

Letter from Colonel Arnold to the Committee,
resigning his Commission, dated Crown Point,
June 24, 1775, 1598

LetteT from Jonas Fay, in behalf of Capt. Her-
rick, to the Committee, dated Ticonderoga,
June 28, 1775, 1599

CXXXI

1775

CONTENTS.

CXXXll

1G00

- 1600
1600

- 1601

- 1601

1602

- 1602

7,

7,

7,

1603
1604

- 1604

Ordnance Stores at Crown Point and Ticonde-
gs, June 23, 1775, -

J»iy&i Letter from Theodore Atkimon to the New-
Hampehirs Congress. Refuses to deiiw op

ill. Publick Records, or OOBOive at a delivery:
but has no thoughts of attempting to retain
them in his custody by force, -
Letter prepared by Air." Atkinson on the same
subject, but not sent to the Congress, (Note,) -
7, Letter from Mr. Atkinson to Governour Went-
worth, informing him of the demand made upon
him by the Provincial Concn II for the Pub-
lick Records; of his refusal to deliver them;
and of their seizure and removal by a Com
mittee of the Congress, -
Resolution of the Provincial Congn sb, demand-
ing the Records of the Secretary,
7, Proceedings at a Court of Common Council,
London, on the Letter from the Committee of
New- York to the Lord Mayor. Refuse to
answer the Letter from the Committee, and
order an Address to the King, -
Address of the Corporation of London to the
King, requesting him to cause hostilities to
cease between Great Britain and America,
7, Letter from Doctor Franklin to Doctor Priestley.
Another Petition to the Crown has been car-
ried with difficulty. Britain has begun to burn
our Seaport Towns; if she wishes to have us
subjects, she is now giving us such specimens
of her government that we shall ever detest
and avoid it, as a complication of robbery, mur-
der, famine, fire and pestilence, - - - -

Letter from John Dickinson to Arthur Lee,
Letter from General Woo6ter to the New- York
Congress, .....

Letter from the Committee for Westchester Coun-
ty, New- York, to the Provincial Congress. —
Many, if not a majority of the Militia Officers
of the County endeavour to counteract the
measures of the Congress, ... 1604

Letter from the Committee lor Kingston, New-
York, to the Provincial Congress, - - 1605
Letter from Elisha Phelps to the New- York
Congress. Flour is so scarce at Albany that
the Troops at Ticonderoga will sutler if sup-
plies are not obtained immediately, - - 1605
Letter from Colonel Hinman, at Ticonderoga, to
Gen. Schuyler. The Regulate are fortifying
St. John's, and building some water-craft there,
but with what intent we cannot determine, - 1605
Letter from Governour Trumbull to the New-
York Provincial Congress, ... 1781
Letter from Governour Trumbull to the Presi-
dent of the Continental Congress, - - 1606
Orders from the Committee of Safety of New-
Hampshire to Captain Bi del, directing him to
proceed to Northumberland or Lancaster, and,
in conjunction with the inhabitants, erect works
of deftnee against small-arms; and to estab-
lish Garrisons at such places on the frontiers
as may be deemed necessary; send out Scouts;
conciliate the Indians, and to arrest suspected
persons, .......

8, Letter from London to a Gentleman in Philadel-
phia. Should it cost all the blood and trea-
sure of Old England, the Ministry would pro-
secute their efforts to subdue the Colonies. If
ou submit, sixty of you are to be hanged in
Philadelphia, and the same number in New-
York. Five hundnd Pounds is offend for
Captain Sears's In ml in particular,
John Holt, of New-Yoik, among the number of
the proscribed who are ordered to be sent to
England, (Note,) ...
Letter from the Independent Company of Alcxan

dria, in Virginia, to General Washington,
Letter from the Messrs. Bradfords, of Philadcl-

Shia, to the Printer of a publick Paper in Lon-
on. The Ministerial account may gloss over
the affair of Bunker's Hill, but a few more
such victories would leave General Gage but
a few men ; and we should joyfully put up with
the disgrace of a retttiat every day for a month,
upon the same terms, .... 1608

8, Letter from the North-Carolina Delegates, at
Philadelphia, to the New- York Congress, re-
questing them to mi' B \> i supposed to
be sent lor Gunpowder for Governour Martin, 1609

7,

7,

1767

y
i>:

8,
8,

1607

- 1607
1608

8,
8,

8,
8,

1775.
Jul i/8. Letter from the New- York Congress to Charles

Thomson,

8, Letter from Henry White to the New- York Con-
gress, denying a connection with Governour
Martin, -------

8, Ezekicl Beach published as an enemy to the
Country, by the Committee for Mendham, in
Morris County, New-Jersey, - •

8, Letter from the Massachusetts Congress to the

New- Hampshire Congress. Approve of Mr.
Dean's being sent to the Continental Congress;
and think it a matter of great importance to
America in general to satisfy our friends in
America that we are truly friendly to them, -

Letter from General Burgoyne to General Lee, -

Petition of the Selectmen and Committee of Safe-
ty for Harpswell to the Massachusetts Con-
gress, -------

Letter from the New-Hampshire Committee of
Safety to Dr. Langdon, -

Letter from the New-Hampshire Committee of
Safety to their Delegates in the Continental
Congress, giving them general information of
the state of affairs in New-Hampshire, and
requesting that provision may be made for
furnishing them with Gunpowder, as they
are almost destitute of it, -
7, Letter from the Provincial Congress of New-
Hampshire to the Continental Congress. The
Colony is at present wholly governed by this
Congress and the Committees of the Towns:
some other regulations are desired, but none
will be attempted without the direction of the
Continental Congress, -

9, Letter from London to a Gentleman in New-
York. The scheme of the Ministry is now
to deceive and divide the New-Yorkers, since
they find mere force like to answer no valua-
ble end, -------

9, Address of the Committee of Safety, Correspond-
ence and Protection, of the City and County
of Albany, to General Schuyler,
Answer of General Schuyler, -

9, Letter from the Massachusetts Congress to the
Continental Congress . suggesting to them the
expediency of seizing every Crown Officer
in the United Colonies, and keeping them
until the People of Boston are released, and
have received full compensation for the insults
and perfidious treatment they have received
from General Gage, -

Letter from the Camp at Cambridge to a Gentle-
man in Philadelphia. Account of the burn-
ing of the British Guard-House on Roxbury
Neck,

Letter from a Gentleman in London to his friend
in New- York. The eyes of Government are
fixed on the Congress and their Resolutions,
and perhaps on their proposals; for it is said
that Administration cannot yield, it being con-
trary to the dignity of the Crown,

Letter from London to a Gentleman in Mary-
land. The People here did not imagine the
Americans would light, but thought a handful
of Regulais would frighten the Americans
into compliance. The Ministry wisii they
were well rid of the business,

Speech of Governour Lord William Camp-
bell to the Council and Assembly of South-
Carolina, -"

Address of the Upper House of Assembly of
South-Carolina to the Governour,

His Excellency's Answer, -
12, Address of the Commons House of Assembly of
South-Carolina to the Governour,

Answer of the Governour, - - - -

Message from the Commons House to the Go-
vernour, ---..,

Meeting of the Committee for Fincastle County,
Virginia. The conduct of Lord Dunmore in
seizing the Powder reflects dishonour on him-
self; the conduct of Patrick Henry on the
occasion merits the highest approbation ; the
Council in advising the Proclamation of .May
3d, show they are become the abject tools of a
detested Administration, ....

10, Letter from Philadelphia to a Gentleman in Eng-
land. Throughout the country the Inhabi-
tants are training, making Fire- Locks, casting

1609

1609

1610

1498
1610

- 1612

1612

1612

1613

1614

1615
1615

9,

10,

10,

10,

11,
12,

12,

12,

10,

- 1616

1616

1617

- 1617

- 1617

1618
1619

1619
1620

- 1620

1620

CXXXIII

1775.

Shells and Shot, and making- Saltpetre for the
Gunpowder Mills. A spirit of enthusiasm
for war has gone forth that has driven away

the fear of death, 1G21

July 10, Petition of Samuel Falkenhan and David Wool-

haupter to the New- York Congress, - - 1621

10, Letter from General Schuyler to Governour

Trumbull, - 1621

10, Association of Merchants of New- York, to give

circulation to Bills of Credit of Connecticut, - 1622
New- York Committee recommend the circula-
tion of Bills of Credit of Connecticut, - - 1622

1 0, Letter from Montreal to a Gentleman in England.
The Martial Law is in force; the Canadians
are enrolled as Militia, and Officers appointed
them by the Governour, - 1623

1 0, Letter from General Washington to the Massa-
chusetts Congress; has learned with great
concern the inadequate strength of the Army ;
the number of Men from Massachusetts does
not amount to nine thousand; in the whole
Army not more than fourteen thousand five
hundred fit for duty, ] 623

10, Letter from General Washington to General

Schuyler, - - - - - - 1623

10, Letter from General Washington to the Presi-
dent of the Continental Congress, - - 1624
Return of the number of Killed, Wounded and

Missing, in the engagement on Bunker's Hill, 1628
Proceedings of a Council of War, held at Head-
Quarters, Cambridge, July 9, 1775, - -1628
Returns of the Army of the United Colonies,
commanded by George Washington, General
and Commander-in-Chief, - 1629
Instructions for the Officers of the Massachusetts-
Bay Forces, who are immediately to go upon
the recruiting service, given at Head-Quar-
ters, July 10, 1775, 1630

. General Orders, from July 3 to July 10, - - 1G30

10, Letter from General Washington to Richard

Henry Lee, .... . 1535

10, Letter from General Thomas to General Wash-
ington ; sends him prisoner a Master of a
Vessel from Boston, who has long been a sus-
pected person, ------ 1637

10, Notice of the Town-Clerk of Boston to the late
Inhabitants of that Town, to meet at Concord
on the 18th of July, to choose Representatives
to the General Assembly, - 1637

10, Letter from the Camp at Cambridge to a Gen-
tleman in Philadelphia. Present situation of
the two Armies, ----- 1637

1 0, Letter from General Lee to the Massachusetts

Congress, ------ 1633

10, Letter from the Massachusetts Congress to Gen-

eral Lee, 1638

1 1, Letter from General Lee to General Burgoyne,

declining the interview with him, - - 1638

Remarks on General Burgoyne's Letter to Gen-
eral Lee, dated July 8, 1775, - - - 1639
Letter to General Burgoyne, on the subject of his

late correspondence with General Lee, - 1641

Declaration of Adam McCulloch, - - - 1642
Address to the People of England, - 1643

Letter from John Grennell to the New- York
Congress, ------ 1644

Letter from the New- York Committee of Safety
to their Delegates in the Continental Congress.
The supply of Powder has not yet been received
from the Committee of Elizabethtown, and the
want of it prevents supplying the very pressing
demands from the Camp before Boston. There
is great difficulty in carrying into execution
the Resolutions of Congress, from the want of

Money, 1780

Letter from General Wooster to the New- York
Committee of Safety, requesting their advice
about disposing of a Prisoner, who must be
tent somewhere, to be out of the way of an
enraged People, ----- 1545

Letter from the New- York Committee of Safety
to William Duer, one of the Judges of Char-
lotte County, approving his conduct in keeping
open and protecting the Courts, - - - 1779
Meeting of the New- York Committee, - - 1645
Letter from < teneral Schuyler to the President

of the Continental Congress, ... 1645
Letter from Colonel Arnold to the Continental

Congress, .-..-. 1646

CONTENTS.

1775.
July 1

CXXX1V

10,
11,
11,

11,

11,

11,

11,

II,
II,

1648
1648

1783

1, Letter from General Schuyler to the New- York
Congress: requests them to send him imme-
diately a person fit to command the Sloop on
Lake Champlain, ..... 1647
11, Letter from Elisha Phelps, at Albany, to the

New- York Congress, - - - - 1647

1 1, Letter from Edmund Bridge, of Pownalborough,

to the Massachusetts Congress. The Inhabi-
tants are in danger of perishing by famine.
General Gage offers to supply them with pro-
visions if they will send him fuel ; this they
have refused to do. If they have bread, they
are ready to sacrifice their lives in the common
cause, .......

12, Meeting of the Officers of the Military Associa-

tion for the City and Liberties of Philadelphia,

12, Letter from the New- York Committee of Safety
to Colonel Hinman. General Schuyler has
proceeded to the Northward, and will make
every arrangement in stationing the Troops
that will be for the general defence of the
United Colonies, .....

12, Letter from the New- York Committee of Safety
to their Delegates in the Continental Congress.
They have formed into four Battalions the
three thousand Men, exclusive of the Green
Mountain Boys, which they were required to
raise by the Continental Congress, and would
be glad to be informed what their pay is to be.
There is no Powder for these Troops when
raised, ------- 1784

12, Letter from General Schuyler to the New- York

Congiess, ...... 1649

12, Letter from Ethan Allen, at Bennington, to Go-
vernour Trumbull. If we do not march an
army into Canada, the Indians and Canadians,
who, in general, are disposed to be neuter, or
assistants to the United Colonies, will be com-
pelled to join against us, - - - 1649

12, Letter from Governour Cooke to General Wash-
ington, .....,- 1649

12, Proclamation by Governour Cooke, requiring
every man in Rhode- Island, able to bear arms,
immediately to equip himself with Arms and
Ammunition, ...... 1650

12, Letter from Cambridge to a Gentleman in Phila-
delphia. Several skirmishes with the enemy, 1650

12, Letter from General Gates to General Lee,
urging him to complete his works without
delay, ....... 1651

12, Letter from the Massachusetts Committee of

Supplies to the New-Hampshire Congress, - 1651

12, Selectmen of Francestown, New- Hampshire,

declare the Committee for that Town were
legally chosen, and that their acts are valid, - 1651

13, Committee for the County of Hillsborough, New-

Hampshire, declare John Quigly an enemy
to the Country, ----- 1652

John Quigly's Declaration of attachment to the

Liberties of America, .... 1652

Committee of Francestown are satisfied with John
Quigly's Declaration, and request he may be
treated as a friend to his Country, - - 1652

13, Meeting of the Committee of Observation for
Baltimore Town. Intercepted Letter from
James Christie, Merchant of Baltimore, laid
before the Committee: Proceedings upon it.
Mr. Christie declared an enemy to this Coun-
try, ...-.-- 1652
Copy of the Letter written by Mr. Christie to
Lieutenant- Colonel Gabriel Christie, of His
Majesty's Sixtieth Regiment, at Antigua, dated
Baltimore, February 22, 1775, - - - 1652

13, Letter from the New- York Committee of Safety
to General Schuyler, enclosing their Letter of
the 12th, to Colonel Hinman, - - - 1785

13, Letier from the New- York Committee of Safety
to General Wooster, requesting information
as to a complaint that a Barge belonging to
His Majesty's Ship Asia had been drawn on
shore and detained, and that last night His
Majesty's store house, near Hudson's River,
hud been broken open, and divers effects car-
nrd away by violence, and that some of the
Troops under his command had been con-
cerned in both these acts, - - - - 1785

13, Calm Address to the People of New- York, - 1655

13' Letter from Elisha Phelps, at Albany, to the

New- York Congress, .... 1657

- 1657

1658

1658

1658

1659
1659

1660
1661

1662

- 1665

1788

cxxxv

1775.

July 13, Letter from Egbert Benson to Peter Van Brugh
Livingston, .....

13, Albany, New- York, Committee, authorize any
four of their Delegates to the Provincial Con-
gress to act for the County, -

13, Committee of Safety for Connecticut. The diffi-
culty with General Spencer arranged ; he
complained of and resented the promotion of
( it neral Putnam over liim, but was persuaded
to return to the Army for the present, -

13, Letter from Governour Trumbull to General

Washington : congratulating him on his ap-
pointment as Commander-in-Chief of the Ame-
rican Army, ------

14, Recantation of James Leonard and others, of

Ulster County, New- York, who had hereto-
fore refused to sign the Association,

14, Letter from General Washington to the Presi-

dent of Congress, -
True account of the Officers of the Ministerial
Troop Killed and Wounded at the Battle of
Charlestown, June 17, 1775, -
General Orders from July 1 1 to July 14, -
13, Cou.t Martial held for the trial of Colonel Scam-
mons, of the Massachusetts Forces, accused of
backwardness in the execution of his duty in
the late action upon Bunker's Hill,

15, Letter from General Wooster to the New- York

Committee of Safety: proposes to remove his
encampment, which is now too near to the
City, to Harlem, ....

13, Letter from the New- York Committee of Safety

to their Delegates in the Continental Congress.
Our enlisted men grow uneasy for want of
money, which prevents the enlistment of others:
we have no arms, we have no powder, we have
no blankets : for God's sake send us money,
send us arms, send us ammunition. Be pru-
dent, be expeditious, -

15, Letter from the New- York Committee of Safety
to General Schuyler. We have ordered Tents
to Albany for one Regiment; our Troops can
be of no service to you ; they have no arms,
clothes, blankets, or ammunition ; the Officers
no commissions ; our Treasury no money; and
ourselves in debt, ..... 1730

15, Letter from General Schuyler, at Saratoga, to

the President of Congress, - 1665

14, Letter from the Albany Committee to General

Schuyler, with alarming accounts from Tryon

County, ' - 1666

13, Letter from the Tryon County Committee to the
Committees of Schenectady and Albany. Co-
lonel Guy Johnson is ready with eight'or nine
hundred Indians under Joseph Brandt and
Walter Butler to attack Tryon County ; and
all the enemies of the Country it is feared
will rise in arms on approach of the Indians, 1666
Return of the Army of the Associated Colonies,
in the Colony of New- York, under the com-
mand of General Schuyler, - ... 1667

15, Letter from Gen. Schuyler to Gen. Washington, 1668
15, Letter from the Tryon County, New- York, Com-
mittee, to the Provincial Congress, - - 1668

15, Letter from the Committee for Newbury, Glou-

cester County, New- York, to the Provincial
Congress, 1668

16, Letter from General Schuyler to General Wash-

ington: enclosing a Letter from Albany and
two other papers, which have, in some mea-
sure, removed his apprehensions for the safety
of the Pople of Tryon County, - 1669

15, Letter from the Albany Committee to General

Schuyler, 1669

8, Letter from Colonel Guy Johnson to the New-
York Congress: opened and read by the Alba-
ny Committee, and a copy sent to General
Schuyler,, , - - - - 1669

15, Examination of Garret Roseboom, of the City of

Albany, before the Subcommittee, - . 1670

16, Letter from General Schuyler to the New- York

Congress. Intelligence from all quarters evinces
the necessity of strengthening the Garrisons of
Ticonderoga and Crown Point . the fatal con-
sequences that would follow their loss are too
evident to need illustration, - 1671

17, Meeting of Merchants of Dublin 1 thanks to Lord

Effingham, for having refused to serve against

the Americans, ---... 1Q72

CONTENTS.

exxxw

1775.

Ja/yl7,Committee for Charles County, Maryland. Cer-
tificates for goods imported into this County
must be signed by five of the Committee of the
place whence they are sent, - ... 1673

17, Letter to the New- York Congress, from the

President of the Continental Congress, - - 1673

17, Letter to the New- York Corlgress, from their
Delegates at Philadelphia, recommending Mor-
gan Lewis for the appointment of Brigade Ma-
jor to the Army under the command of Gene-
ral Schuyler, -..--- 1674

17, Letter from the Elizabethtown, New- Jersey,
Committee, to the Committee for New- York,
informing them they have forwarded four hogs-
heads, containing fifty. two quarter casks of
Powder from Philadelphia, - - - - 1674

17, Elizabethtown, New-Jersey, Committee, restore
the Inhabitants of Richmond County, New-
York, to their commercial privileges, they
having, in general, signed the Association, - 1674

17, Letterfrom the Committee of Safety for New- York
to the Colonels of the several Regiments : re-
questing them to make a return of the number
of Men ready and fit for service, in each Com-
pany, with all possible despatch, - 1674

17, Letter from John Lamb to the New- York Com-
mittee of Safety, requesting permission to enlist
his own Men for the Artillery, ... 1675

17, Letter from the Albany Committee to the New-
York Congress; enclosing four intercepted Let-
ters, and one from Colonel Guy Johnson, da-
ted July 8th, of which they had sent a copy to
General Schuyler, ..... 1675

17, Letter from Governour Trumbull to General

Washington, ...... 1676

17, Letter from Governour Trumbull to General

Schuyler, - 1676

17, Conduct of Captains Ayscough and Wallace,
commanders of British Vessels of War, towards
the Inhabitants of Newport, Rhode- bland: of
their firing on the Town, seizure of vessels, and
threats to set fire to the Town, ... 1677

17, Committee for Lancaster, Worcester County,

Massachusetts, publish Nahum Houghton as
an enemy to his Country, .... 1678
14, Message from Governour Wentworth to the
New-Hampshire Assembly, requesting them
to rescind the vote excluding three Members
from the House returned by the King's writ, - 1678
Answer to the Governour's Message, refusing to

rescind the vote, ..... 1679

Message from the Governour to the House; their
refusing to rescind the vote for excluding the
three Members for Plymouth, Lyme, and Or-
ford, shows they did not meet with a disposi-
tion to proceed to business; he therefore adjourns
them to the 28th of September next, - - 1679

18, Letter from John Stuart, Superintendent of In-

dian Affairs, to the Committee of Intelligence

at Charlestown, South-Carolina, ... 1681

18, Proceedings of the Committee at Dagsberry, Dela-
ware, on the charges against Thomas Robinson,
of counteracting the measures of the Continen-
tal Congress, ...... 1682

18, Letter from the New- York Committee of Safety
to their Delegates in the Continental Congress.
A Committee was appointed by the Provincial
Congress previous to their adjournment, on the
subject of a Congress with the Five Nations:
the proceedings relating to it are enclosed, - 1793

18, Letter to the New- York Committee of Safety,
from their Delegates in the Congress. They
are sensible of the distress to which New- York
must be reduced for want of Money, Arms, and
Powder: the first will soon be supplied; no as-
surances can be given of a supply of Arms and
Ammunition, ...... 1684

18, Letter from Dr. John Mallett, (on board the
Ship Asia,) to William Allman, New- York ;
instructing him how he may convey a quantity
of Medicines from the City of New-York, on
board the Asia, -.---. 1684

18, Letter from General Schuyler, at Ticonderoga,

to Governour Trumbull, .... 1685

18, Letter from General Schuyler to General Wash-
ington. Carleton has about four hundred Men
at St. John's, which he has well secured: at Ti-
conderoga nothing has been done for offi nee
or defence, ----.. 1055

1775.

21,

21,

cxxxvil CONTENTS.

1775.
July 1 8, Letter from General Washington to Governour
Trumbull, in reply to his Letter of the 13th
instant, .--..-- 1686

18, Letter from General Washington to Governour
Trumbull : regrets that the arrangement of the
General Officers has produced dissatisfaction ;
the subject is now before the Continental Con-
gress, ....... 1686

18, Letter from Governour Trumbull to President
Hancock. He omitted to state, in his Letter of
the 7th instant, that the Assembly had ordered
two Vessels to be fitted out, armed, and fur-
nished with men and warlike stores, for the
defence of the Sea-Coasts of the Colony. (Fac
simile,) opposite ..... 1686

18, Declaration by the Continental Congress of the
causes and necessity of their taking up arms,
read before the Army, on Prospect Hill, near
Boston, 1687

1 8, Instructions of General Gage to Captain Duncan

Campbell and Lieutenant Symes ; to proceed
to New- York, and receive such Men as may
be inclined to serve His Majesty, - - 1G87

19, Letter from a Gentleman in Fredericktown, Ma-

ryland, to his friend in Baltimore. Reception
there of Captain Morgan's company of Rifle-
men, from Virginia, on their way to Boston, - 1687

19, Meeting of the Committee for Piscataway and
Bladensburgh, Maryland. Declare Luke Jef-
ferson and the several persons concerned in
importing, vending, purchasing, and receiving
certain goods from the Ships Diana and Eo-
lus, lying in the Eastern Branch of the Poto-
mack River, guilty of violating the Association
of the Continental Congress, ... 1Q88

19, Letter from John Hancock to General Washing-
ton, introducing to him Mr. Ogden and Mr.
Burr of the Jerseys, ----- 1689

19, Letter from John Hancock to the New- York
Committee of Safety; requesting them to send
what Powder they can spare to the Camp
before Boston, - - 1689

19, Address of the Committee of Safety of Hills-
borough, New- Hampshire, to Gen. Sullivan, - 1689
General Sullivan's Answer, .... 1689

19, Letter from General Sullivan to the New- Hamp-
shire Committee of Safety. The Army at
Medford is in great want of Bayonets, Guns
and Blankets, and Beds for the sick ; the New-
Hampshire Forces are without a Chaplain, - 1690

19, Letter from Colonel Reid to the New-Hamp-

shire Committee of Safety, ... - 1690

20, Committee for Wilmington, North-Carolina, re-

solve that John Collet should remain in posses-
sion of Fort Johnson. Collet escapes, and the
Fort is destroyed and the buildings burnt, - 1691

20, Letter from the several Volunteer Companies at
Williamsburgh, Virginia, to the Committee of
the Borough of Norfolk, requesting to be in-
formed of the truth of a report that there are
Volunteers recruiting in Norfolk in opposition
to the Continental plan, - - - - 1691
Answer of the Committee to the Volunteers:
the report is without foundation, - 1692

20, Letter from Captain Montague of the Fowey, to

Captain Squire of the Otter, in Hampton Roads, 1692

20, Pastoral Letter from the Synod of New- York
and Philadelphia, to the Congregations under
their care, delivered from the Pulpit on the
20th of July, 1775, being the day appointed by
the Continental Congress for a General Fast, - 1692

20, Letter from Ethan Allen, at Ticonderoga, to the

New-York Congress, .... 1695

20, Letter from Watertown, Massachusetts, to a Gen-
tleman in Philadelphia. Situation and opera-
tions of the Army, , - . . . 1696

20, Notice by order of Admiral Graves to all Sea-
faring People, that the Light Houses on
Thatcher's Island and at the entrance of Bos-
ton have been burnt and destroyed by the
Rebels, - - - - - - - 1696

20, Letter from Salem, in Massachusetts, to a Gen-

tleman in London : within these few days we
have had oilers of assistance from some Mari-
time Powers secretly conveyed to us ; their
offers are at present rejected, ... \QQQ

21, Newbern, North-Carolina, Committee, suspend

the Rev. James Reed, Minister of the Parish,
fiom his ministerial functions, for refusing to

CXXX11I

officiate yesterday, being the day appointed by
the Continental Congress for a General Fast, 1697
July2\, Letter from Benjamin Harrison to Gen. Wash-
ington. Proceedings of Congress and opinions
of the Members on various subjects, - - 1697

21, Meeting of the Committee for Bucks County,

Pennsylvania, ----.. 1699

21, Committee for Huntington, Long-Island, New-
York, acquit John Brush and others of the
charges against them, of having violated the
Continental or Provincial Association, - - 1699

21, Letter from Col. James Clinton to the New- York

Committee of Safety, 1700

21, Letter from Elisha Phelps to the Continental
Congress. No money has been placed in his
hands for procuring supplies for the Posts on
the Lakes ; all his purchases having been
made on credit, he requests money to enable
him to discharge the debts, ... 1700

Return of Provisions, &c, forwarded to the
Northern Army by Elisha Phelps, Commis-
sary, from the 3d to the 20th day of July, - 1701
Letter from John N. Bleecker to the New- York

Congress, 1701

Letter from General Schuyler, at Ticonderoga,
to the Continental Congress. Ammunition is
very scarce; no Powder has yet come to hand,
and as yet very little Provision ; two hundred
Troops less than at the last return ; these bad-
ly, very badly armed, and but one Armourer
to repair the Guns. Nothing has been done
for raising the five hundred Green Mountain
Boys, 1702

21, Letter from General Schuyler to the New- York
Congress : urges them to send him supplies
and Troops, 1704

21, Letter from General Schuyler to Governour

Trumbull, 1704

21, Letter from General Heath to General Washing-
ton. Account of burning the Light-House in
the Harbour of Boston, .... 1737

21, Letter from General Washington to the Conti-
nental Congress, ..... 1705
General Orders from July 15 to July 20, - 1707

21, Letter from General Washington to John Han-
cock, 1710

21, Letter from General Washington to Governour

Trumbull, 1710

21, Letter from Governour Wentworth to Theodore
Atkinson, enclosing a permit from Captain
Barclay of the Scarborough, for Boats to fish,
if the Town of Portsmouth will supply him
with fresh Provisions as usual, - 1710

22, Letter from John Hancock to the New-Hamp-
shire Congress, - - - - - 1 7 1 1

22, Letter from the New- York Committee of Safety
to their Delegates in the Continental Congress.
New-Jersey has a very considerable number
of good Muskets and Bayonets, and they sug-
gest the propriety of an order from the Conti-
nental Congress that these may be valued and
delivered to New- York, - 1797

22, Letter from General Wooster to the Continental
Congress. Will hasten the march of his Troops
to Albany as rapidly as possible, - - - 1711

22, Letter from General Schuyler to the New- York
Congress : has four important Posts to main-
tain, with a small body of Troops, very ill-
armed, and with little Ammunition, - - 1711

22, Committee of Inspection for the Town of New-
Ipswich, in New-Hampshire, publish David
Hills as a violator of the Association, - - 171 1
Appeal of David Hills to the Publick, - - 1712
Statement of Joseph Bates, Chairman of the
Committee, ...... 1712

Letter from Doctor Benjamin Church to a Bri-
tish Officer in Boston, giving him a statement
of the strength of the American Army, and
of their means of defence, - - - 1713

William Henry Drayton and the Rev. William
Tennent appointed by the Council of Safety
for South-Carolina to go to the back country,
to explain to the People the causes of the pre-
sent disputes between Great Britain and the
Colonies, - - - - - - -1715

Commission to William Henry Drayton and

Rev. William Tennent, ... - 1715
Letter to Mr. Drayton and Mr. Tennent, with
their Commission, .... - 1715

id,

23,

CXXXIX

1775.

CONTENTS.

CXL

24,

24,
24,

24,

24,

24,

24,

24,
24,

24,

Account of the Tory Leaders in the upper parts
of South-Carolina, (Note,) - - - 1715
Ju/y23,Ledet from the Schenectady, New- York, Com-
mittee, to General Schuyler, informing him of
the Sight of Alexander White, Shentl'of Tryon
County, 1730

Meeting of the Committee of Observation for
Prince George's County, Maryland, at Piscat-
away, ..----- 171G

Letter from John Adams to Mrs. Adams, - - 1717
r from John Adams to James Warren, - 1717

Letter from (ieneral Cage to the Earl of Dart-
mouth, dated August 26. The design* of the
leaders of the Rebellion prove that a plan was
1 lid in Massachusetts for a total independence,
while they amused the People with professions
of attachment to the Parent State, - - 1718

Remarks on the intercepted Letters of John
Adams, - - - - - - -1718

Letter from the New- York Committee of Safety
to the Continental Congress : are sorry to say
that the supposition of a quantity of Powder
being received there is without foundation, - 1719

Letter from Colonel Van Schaick to the New-
York Committee of Safety, - - - 1719

Return of the Second Provincial Regiment in the
Colony of New- York, under the command of
Colonel Van Schaick, - - -, -1719

Meeting of the Committee of Safety for Connect-
icut. Committee appointed to make arrange-
ments for equipping and fitting out two Armed
Vessels, 1720

Letter from Governour Trumbull to General
Schuyler. Is it not high time to proceed into,
and even hasten forward to secure the govern-
ment of Quebeck, and thereby the whole In-
dian strength and interest in our favour? - 1721

Note from General Lee to General Sullivan, - 1721

Letter from the Camp at Cambridge to a Gentle-
man in Philadelphia. Information from Bos-
ton, brought out by deserters, ... 1722

Letter from General Gage to the Earl of Dart-
mouth. The Congress, in their declaration
for taking up arms, pay little regard to facts,
for it is as replete with deceit and falsehood as
most of their publications, - - - - 1 723

Address of the Delegates of Virginia and Penn-
sylvania, in the Continental Congress, to the
Inhabitants of the two Colonies, on the West
side of Laurel Hill, urging them to lay aside
their disputes among themselves, and unite in
supporting the common rights of the Country, 1 723

Letter from the President of the Council of Safe-
ty for South-Carolina to Clement Lempriere,
commander of the Sloop Commerce, ordering
him to proceed to the Island of New-Provi-
dence and procure ail the Gunpowder he may
find there, --....

Commission from the South-Carolina Council of
Safety to Clement Lempriere, appointing him
Captain of the Sloop Commerce, belonging to
New- York, .....

Captain Hatton's Report to the Council of Safe-
ty, of the occurrences which took place on
board the Sloop Commerce, in taking the
Powder from Captain Lofthouse, off Augustine
Bar, ----...

Letter from the Elizabethtown, New-Jersey,
Committee, to the New- York Congress, -

Letter from Christopher P. Yates to the New-
York Congress, .....

Letter from Sir John Johnson to Alexander
White,

Letter from Governour Trumbull to the New-
York Congress, requesting them to furnish
Tents for the Connecticut Troops at Ticondc-

roga,

from General Thomas to General Wash-
ington, informing him of the sailing of thirteen
Ships from Boston, apparently bound to the

South,

i to a ( Jentleman in London, from an Officer
in the Army at Boston. At present we are
worse off than the Rebels: they know our
situation as well as we do ourselves, from the
villiam that are left in Town: last week one
wns caught swimming over to the Rebels, with
one of their General's passes in his pocket: he
will be hanged in a day or two. - - . 1707

25,

24,

25,

25,

25,

25,

85,

25,

1724
- 1724

1724
1726
1726
1726

1726

1727

1775.

Jul >/ 26, Letter from a Gentleman in London to his friend
in New- York. The King does not mean to
enslave the Colonies; his bosom heaves with
compassion for the People there, under an
unhappy delusion: England asks nothing but
what is for the benefit of the Colonists them-
selves, and the Parliament could not, if they
would, divest themselves of the power they
exercise over the Colonies, ... 1727

26, Letter from Marinus Willett to the New- York

Congress, ...... 1729

26, Letter from the Albany Committee to General
Schuyler. The apprehensions of the Inhabi-
tants of Tryon County, respecting the Indians,
are entirely removed, and the disputes between
the Inhabitants of the upper part of the Coun-
ty with Sir John Johnson and the Sheriff of
that County, amicably accommodated, - - 1746

26, Letter from General Schuyler to the Continental

Congress, 1729

26, Letter from General Schuyler to the New- York

Congress, 1731

26, Letter from Colonel Reed, Secretary to General

Washington, to General Wooster, - - 1731

27, Letter from James Christie, Jun., of Baltimore,

to the Publick, relative to his Letter to Col.
Christie, of Antigua, written in February last, 1732

27, Meeting of the Officers of the Military Associa-
tion for the City and Liberties of Philadelphia, 1733

27, Letter from the Committee for New-Brunswick,
New- Jersey, to the New- York Committee of
Safety, 1733

27, Letter from the New- York Congress to the Con-
tinental Congress, ..... 1734

27, Letter from General Schuyler to the Continental

Congress, - - - - - -1734

An account of the voyage of Captain Remember
Baker, begun on the 13th day of July, and
ended July 25, 1775, on Lake Champlain, - 1735

27, Letter from General Schuyler to the New- York
Congress. Such intelligence has just been
received as makes it indispensably necessary
that the stores requested on the 3d instant,
should be sent without one moment's delay, - 1735

27, Letter from General Washington to John Au-
gustine Washington, ..... 1735

27, Letter from General Washington to General
Schuyler, respecting three Companies of New-
Hampshire Troops, ----- 173C

27, Letter from Gen. Washington to the Continental
Congress. Three Men of War and nine Trans-
ports gone from Boston, as reported, to plunder
Block Island, Fisher's Island and Long Island,
and bring off what Cattle they may find, - 1736
General Orders, from July 22 to July 27, - 1737

27, Letter from Colonel Hurd to the New-Hamp-

shire Congress, ..... 1740

28, Letter from London to a Gentleman in Philadel-

phia. People here are anxious to hear the
Resolves of the Congress; and those who a
week ago thought General Gage had Troops
enough to march through America, now alter
their tone, on finding the dispute for a mile of
ground cost him one thousand and fifty-four
men wounded and slain, .... 1741

28, Letter to the Printer of the London Morning

Chronicle: on the American question, - - 1742

28, Meeting of the Committee and Officers of the
Militia Company of York County, Pennsylva-
nia. Field-Officers for the Battalion of Min-
ute-Men chosen. Regulations for the Minute-
Men and Militia of the County, - - - 1711

28, Meeting of the Freeholders of Somerset County,
in the Province of Mew-Jersey. Committee of
Correspondence elected. Committee of Inspec-
tion for the several Towns recommended; who
are to take cognizance of every person, of what-
soever rank or condition, who shall, either by
word or deed, endeavour to destroy our unani-
• niity in opposing the arbitrary and cruel mea-
sures of the British Ministry, ... 1745

28, Letter from General Schuyler to the Continental

Congress, 1745

25, Speech of two Oneida Indians, at a Conference
with the Albany Committee, on the 25th of

( Jul.V. 174G

23, Certificate from Captain Delaplacc, that he never
saw Colonel Easton at the time Ticondero«-a
was surprised, - - - - . . 1 Q87

CX LI

177:..

July 28, Letter from Governour Trumbull to General
Schuyler, ......

General Washington to General

CONTENTS.

1775.

CAM I

28,

Letter from
Schuyler,

28, Letter from Colonel Joseph Reed to Colonel
Baldwin, at Chelsea, enclosing' a Letter from
Dr. Church, with instructions to have it con-
veyed into Boston, with the utmost secrecy and
despatch; and requests him after having made
himself master of the contents of this Letter to
destroy it, ......

28, Letter from Colonel Loammi Baldwin to General
Washington, ......

28, Letter from the Massachusetts Council to Gene-
ral Gates. The Jails of Worcester, Springfield
and Northampton are the most suitable places
for securing the Prisoners, and advise them to
be sent there, ----.*-
Orders from General Gates to Captain Baker, for
the removal of Prisoners to Worcester, to be
conveyed thence to Springfield, - - -
Receipt of William Young, Chairman of the
Committee of Correspondence at Worcester,
for two Sergeants, two Corporals, eighteen Pri-
vates, and twelve Tories, prisoners, sent from
Head-Q,uarters, - - - - -

Receipt of the Chairman of the Springfield Com-
mittee for the same Prisoners, ...

28, Letter from Captain Bi del, at Haverhill, to the

New-Hampshire Committee of Safety. Obj< cts
to serving out of the Colony in the rank of
Captain; if sent to Canada, he expects to have
a Regiment, --.--.

29, Letter from Robert Washington, addressed to the

Convention of Virginia, on the defects of rtjili-
tary discipline in the American service. His
station in the Army in Europe, the last war,
made him thoroughly acquainted with all parts
of the Prussian infantry and artillery exercise,
and he freely offers his service to the publick,
to disseminate his information, -

29, Meeting of the Governour and Council of Penn-
sylvania. Petition of Dominique Du Casse,
Master of the Schooner Mary, belonging to
Martinico, laid before the Council,

29, Letter from John Adams, at Philadelphia, to
Josiah Ouincy, - - -

29, Letter from the New- York Delegates, in the
Continental Congress, to the Committee of
Safety. All the Powder that is or may be im-
ported into the Colony should be taken, and
none be permitted to go out of the Province,
but by the express direction of the Congress or
Committee of Safety, ....

29, Letter from the Albany Committee to the New-
York Congress, .....

29, Letter from Walter Livingston, at Albany, to the
New- York Congress. The Fortress at Ticon-
deroga is in a ruinous condition. I dread the
consequence if General Schuyler should be
attacked by any considerable army; he cannot
de&nd himself, and if defeated cannot retreat, -

29, Letter from General Washington to the Speaker
of the House of Representatives of Massachu-
setts, suggesting some arrangement relating to
the coming out of the Inhabitants of Boston, -

29, Letter from Colonel Baldwin to General Wash-
ington. Has had much upon his hands and
mind since he received Mr. Reed's Letter last
night, ......

31, Letter from Governour Cooke to General Wash-
ington. Has had no account yet from any part
of the coast of the Fleet that lately sailed from
Boston, .......

29, Letter from General Sullivan to the New-Hamp-
shire Committee of Safety, . . .

31, Letters from London, dated July 31, 1775, which
were received and laid before the Continental
Congress. The plan of the Administration is
to take possession of New- York and Albany ;
to place strong garrisons in those cities; de-
clare all Rebels who do not join the King; to
command the North and East Rivers, and cut
off all communication between the Eastern and
Southern Colonies, -

31, Letter from Lord Shelburne to Arthur Lee, in
London, ......

31, Letter from a Gentleman in Edenton, North-
Carolina, and one of the Delegates of Congress,

1747
1747

1748
1748

1749
1749

1749
1749

1749

1750

1751
1751

1752
1753

1753

1754

- 1754

1754
1755

1755
175(3

to a principal house in Edinburgh, Scotland.
We are in a terrible situation ; every Ameri-
can, to a man, is determined to die or be free.
We do not want to be independent: we want
no other revolution than a change of Ministry
and measures, ...... 1757

July 31, Meeting of the Officers of the Militia, in Bucks
County, Pennsylvania. The County divided
into three Battalions, and Field- Officers ap-
pointed, 1757

31, Proclamation by Governour Tryon. Meeting of
the General Assembly further prorogued from
the 9th of August to the 6th day of September
next, 1758

31, Letter from Francis Stephens, in New- York, to
General Gage. Account of the depredations
committed on His Majesty's stores at Turtle
Bay, in New- York, on the 12th and 13th
instants, ....... 1758

31, Letter from General Schuyler to the Continental
Congress. Has one vessel, sixty feet long, on
the stocks, expected to be finished in a week;
another of the same size is to be put up to-day,
so that there will soon be vessels enough to
move on, ...... 17GO

31, Letter from General Schuyler to the New- York
Congress. A controversy has arisen between
Allen and Warner, and the former has been
left out by the Green Mountain Boys, - - 1760

28, Letter from Nathan Clark to General Schuyler,
enclosing him the Proceedings of the Commit-
tees on the New-Hampshire Grants, - - 1761
Meeting of the Committees of the several Towns
on the New-Hampshire Grants, west of the
Grf en Mountains, at Dorset, on the 27th of
July. Field and Company Officers for a
Battalion of Green Mountain Boys chosen, - 1761

31, Letter from General Schuyler to Nathan Clark.
The choice of Company Officers being left
entirely to the People, those selected at Dorset,
on the 27th, are approved of; the choice of
Field Officers will be referred to the Conti-
nental Congress, - - - - - 1761

31, Letter from General Schuyler to Governour
Trumbull. No time ought to be lost in at-
tempting to gain possession of the Province of
Quebeck: we have hitherto had every pros-
pect of success, but our situation has not per-
mitted us to move, .....

31, Letter from General Schuyler to General Wash-
ington, ........

31, Letter from Governour Trumbull to General
Washington, - -

31, Proceedings of a Town Meeting held at Provi-
dence, in Rhode-Island, ....

31, Letter from General Washington to the Speaker
of the House of Representatives of Massa-
chusetts-Bay, .....

31, Letter from the Camp at Cambridge to a Gentle-
man in Philadelphia. Skirmishes with the
British, .......

31, Account of the burning of the Light-House, on
Light-House Island, by Major Tupper,

31, Speech of the Chiefs of the Oneidas, respecting
the late murder committed in the Plantation of
the Butternuts, to the Committee of Cherry
Valley; to be communicated to the Inhabitants
of the Butternuts, .....

PENNSYLVANIA COMMITTEE OF SAFETY.

July 3, Pennsylvania Committee of Safety,

Resolutions of the Assemblyappoiuting the Com-
mittee of Safety
Benjamin Franklin chosen President, and Wil

1762
1762
1763
1763

- 1764

1764
1765

1766

1769

- 1769

4,

liam Govett appointed Clerk, - - - 1771

Committee to provide patterns of Muskets, Bayo-
nets, Cartridge Boxes and Knapsacks, to be sent
to the Countiis, - - - - - 1771

Committee to procure any quantity of Powder
and Saltpetre in their power, with the utmost
expedition, - - - - - - 1771

Committee to go to Red Bank, and view the
River and Islands, 1771

Committee for providing Powder and Saltpetre
are required to procure two thousand good
Fire-Arms, ----.. 1771

Doctor Franklin requested to procure a model of
a Pike, 1771

CXLIII

1775.
July 6, Committee who went to Red Bank report that
it is impracticable to lay a Boom across that
part of the River, - - - - - 1771

Committee lor the construction of Boats and Ma-
chines for the defence of the River, - - 1771

Committee for inspecting Ordnance and Military
Stores, and to supply such deficiencies as may
be necessary, and provide a model of a Pike

or Spear, 1772

8, Model of a Pike Staff produced, and one ordered

to be made, ...... 1772

John Wharton directed to build a Boat or Calevat,
of forty-seven or fifty feet keel, . - - 1772

Owen Biddle to have a Bike made agreeable to
the pattern produced by Dr. Franklin, - - 1772

10, Emanuel Eyres directed to build a Boat agreeable

to the model produced by him this day, - 1772

11, Committee for building Boats and constructing

Machines for defence of the River authorized

to purchase a number of Pine Logs, - - 1772

1 3, Thanks of the Committee to Ebenezer Robinson,

for his Plan of stopping the Channel of the
River Delaware, ..... 1773

14, Committee of Safety to examine the ground on

which it is proposed to raise a Battery, - 1773

15, Twelve Boats, and such Machines as may be

thought necessary, to be built by the Commit-
tee for the defence of the River, ... 1773

Committee to ascertain if New-Jersey will assist
in the defence of the River, ... 1773

17, Henry Daugherty and John Rice appointed to
command two of the Boats building for the
defence of the River, .... 1773

Committee report that New-Jersey will give
every assistance in their power for the defence

of the River, 1773

24, Robert Smith presented the model of a Machine

for obstructing the navigation of the Delaware, 1775
28, Captain John McPherson offers his services for

the defence of this Country, - - - 1 776

Resolutions of the Continental Congress of the
18th of July, ordered to be entered on the
Minutes of the Committee, ... 1776

Committees of the several Counties in the Pro-
vince requested to make a Return of all the
Officers of the Military Association, - - 1776
31, William Bigland submitted to the Committee a
draught of a Rowing Wheel, which he pro-
posed to have fixed to the Provincial Row-
Boats, - 1778

Form of Commission for the Officers of the Mili-
tary Association, ..... 1773

MMITTEE OF SAFETY.

1777
1778
1778
1779

CONTENTS.

CXLIV

14,

15,

1785

1785

- 1785
k

- 1786

- 1786

- 1786

1787

1789
1789

1789

1790
1790

17,

NEW-YORK COMMITTEE OF SAFETY.

July 11, Committee of Safety meets at the City Hall,

Letter from General Wooster for advice about
a Prisoner, ----..

He is required to send Peter Herring, the pri-
soner, to the Committee of Safety,

Letter to William Duer, one of the Judges of
Charlotte County, -

Letter from Abraham Lott, informing them of a
demand upon him by Captain Collins, for Pro-
visions for the Nautilus, ....

Mr. Lott authorized to comply with the order -

Letter from William Hooper and Joseph Hewes,
North Carolina Delegates, at Philadelphia'
dated June 8,

Answer of the Committee, ....

Letter to the New- York Delegates in the Con-
tinental Congress, in reply to one from them
dated July 6, I

Letter from Governour Trumbull, dated Hart-
ford, July 7, - . . .

Account of the Men who went from Manchester
to Ticonderoga, dated June 10, -

Letter from Burnet Miller, Chairman of the Com-
mittee of Southampton, dated July 5, -

Peter Herring, convicted of assisting one Lundin
to get onboard the Asia, man-of-war, ordered
to be con lined in Connecticut until discharged
by the Continental Congress, - . .
12, Mr. Brasher direct, d to wait on the Mayor, and
request him to deliver the City Arms to the
Committee of Safety, ....

Letter to Colonel Hinman, at Ticonderoga

Letter to the New- York Delegates in the'Con-
tinental Congress, ....

1779
1780

1780
1780

1780
1781
1781
1781

- 1782

1782
1783

1775.
July 13, Letter to General Schuyler, - - - -

Complaint from Captain Vandcput, that one of
the Boats belonging to the Asia has been taken,
and the crew made prisoners ; and that His
Majesty's Store, near the Hudson, was broken
open last night, and divers effects carried off, -
Letter to General Wooster, requesting information
on the matter complained of by Captain Van-
deput, .....

Doctor Samuel Bard permitted to attend the sick

Mariners of His Majesty's Ships,
The Recorder, and Aldermen Brewerton and
Matthews, inform the Committee that the Boat
of the Asia has been burnt,
Order to the Magistrates to inquire into the late
outrages on His Majesty's property, and punish
all persons concerned in them, as the law di
rects, .....

Letter to John Sloss Hobart, informing him that
certain persons in or near Huntington, on
Long- Island, are engaged in shipping Provi-
sions to General Gage, ....

Committee to purchase old Copper, Brass and

other materials for casting a Brass Fieldpiece, 1787
Letter to the New- York Delegates in the Conti-
nental Congress, .....

Letter to General Schuyler, ....

Letter to General Wooster, informing him pro-
vision has been made for removing his Camp
to Harlem, ......

James Smith appointed to command on Lake
Champlain, ......

Letter to General Schuyler, ....

Herman Zedtwitz appointed Major of the First

Regiment of Troops now raising in this Colony, 1 790
Articles of Agreement with Thomas Blockley,
who engages to send out from Britain ten good
Gunsmiths and Locksmiths, to the Colony of
New- York, to dwell and reside, there to carry
on their respective trades and occupations,
Letter to the Committee of Fairfield, in Connecti-
cut, requesting them to grant some indulgence
' to Angus McDonald, - - -
Letter to the Colonels of the Regiments now
raising in this Colony, ....

Mayor of the City, and the Magistrates, having
engaged a Carpenter to build a Boat for the
Asia, to replace that lately burnt, their con-
duct is approved, ....

Letter from Wolvert Ecker, Chairman of the
Committees of Newburgh and New- Windsor
Precincts, with three persons charged with
being enemies to their Country, -
Order to Colonel McDougall to receive John
Morrell, Adam Patrick and Isaiah Purdy.and
keep them in custody, ....

Letter to the Committee of Albany: Powder for-
warded for General Schuyler, ...
Letter to the New- York Delegates in the Con-
tinental Congress, -----

Letter to Jacob Bayley, at Newbury, in Glouces-
ter County, - - . .
Letter to John Nicholson, New- Windsor, direct-
ing him to receive orders from Colonel James
Clinton, .--....

Letter to General Schuyler, enclosing a Resolu-
tion of the Continental Congress of July 17, -
Colonel McDougall ordered to take possession
of the Town Barracks for the Troops under
his command, ......

Letter to the Committee of New-Brunswick,
New- Jersey. Boats are frequently loaded there
with Flour for the British, -
Letter to the New- York Delegates in the Con-
tinental Congress : propose application for the
New-Jersey Muskets, ....

Letter to Rev. John Peter Tetard, with his ap-
pointment as Interpreter to General Schuyler,
and Chaplain to the New- York Troops,
Letter to the President of the Continental Con
gress, ----...

Adjourned to meet in Congress, to-morrow morn-
ing, at nine o'clock,

18,

19,

21,

1791

- 1791

1792

- 1792

- 1792

1793
1793

1793

- 1794

22,

24,

25,

1795
1796

1797

1797

1798

- 1798
1799

1799

- 1784

NEW-YORK PROVINCIAL CONGRESS.

26, Provincial Congress meets, .... 1800
Committee of Safety delivered in a Report of
their Proceedings, - - - . - 1801

CXLV

1775.

CONTENTS.

cxLvr

Letter to the New- York Delegates in the Conti-
nental Congress, recommending Ebenezer
Hazard for Postmaster of the City of New-
York, 1802

July 27, William Duer, appointed Deputy Adjutant-Gen-
eral, 1803

Letter to the President of the Continental Con-
gress, informing him of their appointment of
Deputy Adjutant-General, - 1803

Letter to the New- York Delegates in the Conti-
nental Congress, .... - 1804

Military Committee appointed, for fourteen days,
with full power, during that time, to order and
dispose of all things whatsoever, relating to or
concerning the Troops raised, or to be raised,

in this Colony, 1804

28, Letter to the New- York Delegates in the Conti-
nental Congress, on the subject of Tea, - 1805

Letter to the New- York Delegates in the Conti-
nental Congress, on the subject of Flaxseed, - 1806

Letter to Governour Trumbull, on furnishing
Tents for Colonel Hinman's Regiment, - 1806

Letter to Wolvert Ecker and Samuel Brewster,
Chairmen of the Committees of New- Windsor
and Newburgh, informing them that Morrell,
Patrick and Purdy are released from confine-
ment, ....... 1806

Peter T. Curtenius directed to forward one thou-
sand Tents to Colonel Hinman, for the Con-
necticut Troops at Ticonderoga, ... 1807
31, Letter to the Committee of Correspondence for

Easthampton and Southold, ... 1809

Aug. 1, The Congress informed by the Recorder that the
Boat which had been building for the Asia,
by order of the Committee of Safety, was sawed
to pieces, and entirely destroyed, - - - 1810

2, Letter from the New-Brunswick, New- Jersey,

Committee, - - - - - - 1811

Motion by Mr. Low, that the persons who de-
stroyed the Barge belonging to His Majesty's
Ship Asia are base violators of the Association
subscribed by the Congress, ... 1812

Mr. Low's motion to be considered on Friday
next, 1812

Queries presented to the Congress by the Com-
pany Officers of the First Regiment, - - 1812

Answers to the Queries, - - - - 1812

3, Chairman of the New- York Committee requested

to summon the Committee immediately, to con-
sider the papers relating to George Coffin's
Vessel and Cargo, - - - - - 1813

Letter from Peter T. Curtenius, - - - 1814

Letter to the Committee of Elizabethtown, New-
Jersey, 1814

Letter to General Washington, for blank Com-
missions for the Officers, - - - - 1814

Patrick Sinclair, having accepted the office of
Lieutenant-Governour of Michilimackinack, is
ordered by the Congress not to proceed thither,
and is sent on his Parole to Suffolk County, - 1815

4, Permission given to Mr. Harper, of Harpersneld,

near Cherry Valley, to purchase one hun-
dred weight of Gunpowder, at the Mill of Ro-
bert R. Livingston, on his paying Money for
the same, - - - - - - - 1815

Patrick Sinclair, refusing to sign the Parole, is
placed under Guard, - - - - -1815

Motion by Mr. Sears, that Capt. Patrick Sinclair
be sent to Hartford, in Connecticut, rejected, - 1816

Letter from Philip Livingston and George Clin-
ton, at Philadelphia, informing them that Mo-
ney will be forwarded immediately, - - 1816

Members who are absent by order of this, or the
Continental Congress, to be counted as present,
whenever a vote is taken, the Members pre-
sent voting for the County, - - - -1816

Mr. John De Lancey reprimanded by the Presi-
dent for language used to Mr. Scott, a Member,
while the Congress was sitting, - 1817

Mr. De Lancey and Mr. Scott directed to let the
dispute drop, and proceed no further in it, - 1817

5, Committee appointed to consider of the Ways and

Means best adapted to discharge the D;bts al-
ready contracted, or which may hereafter be
contracted for the exigencies of the Colony,
in its present critical and alarming situation, - 1817
John Foster permitted to ship a cargo of Live
Stock to the West- Indies, that he maybe there-
by enabkd to procure Military Stores, - - 1818

Fourth Series. — Vol. ii.

1775.

Pay and Clothing allowed to the Troops en-
listed by this Colony, 1818

Letter from the President of the Continental Con-
gress, dated August 1, 1775, ... 1818

Proceedings on the Resolutions moved by Mr.
Low, on the 2d instant, with respect to the in-
suit offered to this Congress, by destroying the
Boat belonging to the Asia, - - - 1818

Mr. Melancton Smith's motion to reject the Reso-
lutions, rejected, - - - - -1818

Resolutions adopted, and with their preambulary
recitals or introductions, as amended and agreed
to, ordered to be entered on the Journals as
part of the proceedings of Congress ; and be
published in the Newspapers, ... 1819

Committee of the City of New- York requested
to take the proper measures for discovering the
persons who sawed and destroyed the Boat
lately ordered to be built for the use of His
Majesty's Ship Asia, 1820

Secretary directed to procure a certified copy of
the rates of the pay of the Troops in the Con-
tinental Army, from a Colonel downwards, - 1820

CONTINENTAL CONGRESS.

May\0, The Congress convened in the State- House, at

Philadelphia, - 1819

List of the Delegates from the several Colonies, 1819
Peyton Randolph chosen President, and Charles

Thomson Secretary, - - - - -1819
Rev. Mr. Duche requested to open Congress
with prayers to-morrow morning, - - 1820

11, Congress opened with prayers by the Rev. Mr.

Duche, 1820

Credentials of the Delegates read and approved, 1820

Doors to be kept shut during the time of business,
and Members under the strongest obligations
of honour to keep the proceedings secret, - 1824

Letter from the Agents, William Bollan, Benj.
Franklin and Arthur Lee, dated London, Feb-
ruary 5, 1775, laid before Congress and read, 1824

Papers accompanying the Letter of the Agents,
submitted to Congress this day, (Note,) - 1825

Letters and Papers from the Massachusetts Con-
gress, submitted by Mr. Hancock, - - 1826

Letter from the Provincial Congress of Massa-
chusetts to the American Continental Congress,
dated May 3, 1826

Resolves of the Massachusetts Congress, passed
May 3, for borrowing One Hundred Thousand
Pounds, enclosed in the preceding Letter, - 1828

Depositions and Address ordered to be published, 1829

State of America to be considered on Monday
next in Committee of the Whole, - - 1829

Letter from Massachusetts referred to that Com-
mittee, 1829

12, Met and adjourned, 1829

13, Lyman Hall admitted as a Delegate from the

Parish of St. John's, Georgia, - - - 1829
Mr. Hall's Credentials — Address of the Inhabi-
tants of St. John's Parish to Congress ; their
Letter of February 2, to the Committee of
Correspondence in Charlestown, South-Caro-
lina;— answer of the Committee, dated Feb-
ruary 9 ; and choice of the Delegate, March

21, 1775,

Petition from Frederick County, Virginia,

15, Order of the Day read, and, after some debate,

postponed, - - -

Application from New- York for advice, how to
conduct themselves with regard to the Troops
expected there, - - - - - -1831

Delegate from St. John's, in Georgia, to have the
same privileges as the other Delegates, except
voting when a question is taken by Colonies,

Credentials of Delegates from Rhode- Island, -

Advice to the Inhabitants of New- York to act
on the defensive, if the Troops, expected from
England, arrive,

Committee appointed to consider what Posts
should be occupied in New-York,

State of America to be further considered to-
morrow, -------

16, Memorial from Robert and John Murray,
Congress in Committee of the Whole, on the

state of America, .....

1 7, Exportations to Quebeck, Nova-Scotia, St. John's,

Newfoundland, Georgia, (except the Parish of

1829
1831

- 1831

1831
1832

1832

1832

1832
1832

1832

CXL.TII

it::

CONTENTS.

CXLVI1I

St. John's,) and to East and West Florida, pro-
hibited, -.-----
May 18, Rules of last Congress adopted, -

Intelligence received of the surprising and taking
of Ticonderoga, - - - -

Mr. Brown called in to give an account of the
disposition of the Canadians, the taking of Ti-
conderoga, and the importance of that Post, -

Congress approve the taking of Ticonderoga,
and direct the removal of the Cannon and
Stores to the south end of Lake George, to be
there taken care of, and returned when the
restoration of harmony between Great Britain
and the Colonies shall render it prudent to do so,

19, List of the Delegates to the Congress in Phila-

delphia this day, (Note,) -

Report from the Committee on establishing Posts
in New- York, read and referred to the Com-
mittee of the Whole on the state of America,

State of America further considered in Commit-
tee of the Whole, -

20, State of America further considered in Commit-

tee of the Whole, -

22, State of America further considered in Commit-

tee of the Whole, -

23, State of America further considered in Commit-

tee of the Whole, .....

24, John Hancock chosen President, Mr. Randolph

being necessarily absent, -
-State of America further considered in Commit-
tee of the Whole, -

25, State of America further considered in Commit-

tee of the Whole, .....

Committee of the Whole report in part, recom-
mending the establishment of Posts at King's-
Bridge, and in the High lands on Hudson River;
the embodying of the Militia, and the enlist-
ment and regulation of Troops by the Provin-
cial Congress, ----..

Motion for an addition to the Resolutions respect-
ing New- York, after some debate, postponed
till to-morrow, ......

26, Resolution of the Assembly of New-Jersey of

May 20, with a copy of the Resolution of the
House of Commons of February 27, laid before
Congress by a Delegate from New-Jersey,
and referred, to the Committee of the Whole
on the state of America, ....

Consideration resumed of the motion made yester-
day, for an addition to the Resolutions respect-
ing New- York, .....

Provincial Congress of New- York advised to
persevere vigorously for their defence, as it is
uncertain whether the endeavours of Congress
to accommodate the differences with Great Bri-
tain by conciliatory measures will be successful,

Committee appointed to prepare a Letter to the
People of Canada, .....

State of America further considered in Commit-
tee of the Whole, .....

Committee of the Whole report further, several
Resolutions, which were read and adopted, -

The Colonies to be immediately put in a state of
defence, to secure them against all attempts to
enforce the Acts for taxing the Colonies by
force of arms, ---...

Petition to be presented to the King,

Measures for opening a negotiation, to accommo-
date the differences between Great Britain and
the Colonies, to be made part of the Petition
to the King, ---...

State of America further considered in Commit-
tee of the Whole, .....
29, Letter from the Convention of New- Jersey, read
and referred to the Committee of the Whole

A Gentleman introduced to the Congress, to give
a just and full account of the state of affairs in
Canada, --...._

Report of the Committee to prepare a Letter to
Canada, after some debate, recommitted,

Committee appointed to consider on ways and
means to supply the Colonies with Ammuni-
tion and Military Stores, ....

Memorial of Robert Murray and John Murray
considered *

Committees in the Colonies authorized to restore
to publick favour persons convicted of violating
the Continental Association, on their being satis-
fied they will not offend in future,

1833
1833

1833
1833

1833
1834

1834
1834
1834
1834
1834
1835
1835
1835

1835
1836

1836
1836

1836
1836
1836
1836

1837
1837

1837
1837
1837

1837
1837

1837
1838

1838

1775.

May 29, Letter to the Inhabitants of Canada, again re-
ported; and agreed to, - - - - 1838
Provisions not to be sent to the Island of Nan-
tucket, except from Massachusetts, - - 1 839
Committee to consider the best means to establish
a Post for conveying Letters and intelligence
through the Continent, .... 1839

30, Paper drawn up by Grey Cooper, brought by a

Gentleman just from London, who received it
from Lord North, presented by Mr. Willing,

and read, 1840

State of America further considered in Commit-
tee of the Whole, 1840

31, State of America further considered in Commit-

tee of the Whole, 1840

Letter from Colonel Arnold, dated Crown Point,
May 23, calling for a re-enforcement and sup-
plies, 1840

Governour Trumbull requested to send a re-en-
forcement; and the Provincial Congress of
New- York requested to furnish Provisions
and other necessary Stores, - - - - 1841

Governour Trumbull requested to appoint a per-
son to take command at Crown Point and
Ticonderoga, - - - - - -1841

June 1, Report of the Committee on supplying Ammuni-
tion and Military Stores, read and referred to
the Committee of the Whole, - - - 1841

Congress, having nothing in view but the defence
of the Colonies, direct that no expedition be
undertaken against Canada, - - - 1841

Petition from the Inhabitants of Augusta County,
Virginia, west of the Alleghany Mountains,
read and referred to the Delegates for Virginia
and Pennsylvania, - - - - - 1841

State of America further considered in Commit-
tee of the Whole, 1841

2, Letter from the Provincial Congress of Massa-

chusetts, dated Watertown, May 16, read, laid

on the table, and Dr. Church, who brought the

Letter, introduced and heard, - - - 1 842

Resolutions prohibiting supplies of Money or

1 Provisions to Officers of the British Armv or

Navy, - 1843

3, Letter from New- York, with sundry Letters and

Papers enclosed, from Albany, received and
read, 1843

Committee to consider the Letter from Massachu-
setts, dated May 16, 1843

Committee to borrow Six Thousand Pounds for
the use of America, and to apply it to the pur-
chase of Gunpowder for the Continental Army, 1843

Committees to report a Petition to the King ; an
Address to the Inhabitants of Great Britain ;
an Address to the People of Ireland ; a Letter
to the Inhabitants of Jamaica ; and an estimate
of the Money necessary to be raised, - - 1843

5, Several Colonies not being represented, adjourned

till to-morrow, ...... 1843

6, The several Committees not being ready to report,

adjourned till to-morrow, .... 1844

7, Report of the Committee of an estimate of the

Money necessary, read and referred to the
Committee of the Whole, .... 1844

Committee to prepare a Resolve appointing the
■ 20th day of July next, for a day of Fasting
and Prayer, ...... 1844

Report of the Committee on the Letter from
Massachusetts, read and laid on the table, - 1844

State of America further considered in Commit-
tee of the Whole, 1844

8, Committee to examine the papers of Major Skene,

who arrived last evening from London, - - 1844
State of America further considered in Commit-
tee of the Whole, 1844

9, Report on the Letter from Massachusetts, con-

sidered and agreed to, - 1 844

People of Massachusetts advised to elect Repre-
sentatives, and exercise the powers of Govern-
ment, ....... 1845

10, Letters from Massachusetts-Bay, Ticonderoga,

Crown Point, &c, received and read, • - 1845
New-Hampshire, Rhode-Island, Connecticut and
interior Towns of Massachusetts, requested to
furnish the American Army before Boston
with all the Powder they can spare, - - 1845
All the Colonies requested to collect Saltpetre
and Sulphur, to be made into Gunpowder, for
the use of the Continent, .... 1845

CXLIX

1775.

CONTENTS.

| 1775.

13,

14,

15,

16,

17,

Committee to devise the ways and means to in-
troduce the manufacture of Saltpetre in these
Colonies, -------

Governour Skene released on parole,
June 12, Report of the Committee on a day of Fasting
and Prayer read and agreed to, -

Ways and means of raising Money, considered
in Committee of the Whole,

Ways and means of raising Money, and the state
of America, further considered in Committee of
the Whole,

State of America further considered in Commit-
tee of the Whole, and further report, in part,
made, -------

Ten Companies of Riflemen to be raised for the
Army near Boston, - - - - -

Committee to prepare Rules and Regulations for
the government of the Army, -

Ways and means of raising Money, and the state
of America, further considered in Committee of
the Whole, and further report, in part, made, -

George Washington unanimously elected Gene-
ral of all the Continental Forces, raised, or to
be raised, for the defence of American Liberty,

The President, from the Chair, informed George
Washington of his appointment, and requested
his acceptance of it, -

Colonel Washington's Answer, -

Committee to prepare a Commission and Instruc-
tions for the General,

Committee to consider the Papers from New-
York, relative to Indian Affairs, - - -

State of America further considered in Commit-
tee of the Whole, and further report, in part,
made, -------

General and Staff-Officers to be appointed, and
their pay fixed, ------

Commission for the General reported by the
Committee, and agreed to, -

Declaration of the Congress to maintain, assist,
and adhere to the General with their lives and
fortunes, in maintaining the liberties of America,

Artemas Ward and Charles Lee chosen Major-
Generals, and Horatio Gates Adjutant-Gene-
ral, --------

Letters from the Conventions of Massachusetts
and New- York, received and read,

Committee to inform General Lee of his appoint-
ment, and request his answer whether he will
accept the command, - - - - -

General Lee, before he accepts, desires an inter-
view with a Committee respecting his private
fortune, -------

Committee appointed, and, after an interview, re-
port an estimate of the estate he risked by this
service, -------

Congress resolve to indemnify General Lee for
any loss of property he may sustain by enter-
ing into their service, - - - - -

Connecticut, Rhode- Island and New-Hampshire
requested to re-enforce the Army before Bos'
ton, ......

Philip Schuyler and Israel Putnam chosen Ma-
jor-Generals, ------

Petition to the King reported by the Committee,

Instructions to the General, - - - -

Thomas Jefferson appeared as Delegate from
Virginia, in place of Peyton Randolph,

Committee to consider sundry queries from the
General, -------

Eight Brigadier-Generals chosen, -

Two Millions of Spanish Milled Dollars to be
emitted by Congress in Bills of Credit, for the
defence of America, and the Twelve Confede-
rated Colonies pledged for their redemption, -

Pennsylvania to raise two more Companies of
Riflemen, making eight Companies, to be
formed into a Battalion, - - - -

Letter from the Officer at Crown Point, dated
June 10, received and read, - ...

Colonel Allen and Captain Seth Warner called
in to communicate important intelligence,

Provision for the payment of the Officers and
Men employed in taking Ticonderoga, -

New- York Convention requested to raise a body
of Green Mountain Boys, - - -

Committee to draw op et Declaration, to be pub-
lished by General Washington, upon his arri
val at the Camp before Boston,

1846
1846

- 1846
d

- 1847

- 1847

19,

20,
21,

22,

23,

1847

1847

1847

1848

1848

1848
1848

- 1849

1849

- 1849
1849

1850

1850

1850
- 1850

1850

1851

1851

1851

- 1851

1851
1851
1851

- 1852

1852
1853

1853

1853

1853
1853

- 1853

Y

- 1853

- 1853

CL

1854
1854

1854

1854

State of America further considered in Commit-
tee of the Whole, and further report, in part,
made, -------

Number and denomination of Bills of Credit to

be emitted, ----..

June24, Committee on putting the Militia in a proper state

for the defence of America, ...

Declaration to be published by General Wash-
ington, reported, read, debated, and referred for
further consideration, - - - - -

26, Resolutions adopted, recommending to the People

of North-Carolina to associate for the defence
of American Liberty, and to embody as Militia,
under proper Officers; and the Assembly or
Convention of that Colony authorized to raise
one thousand Men, to form part of the Ameri-
can Army, and be paid by this Congress, - 1854
Declaration further considered, debated, and re-
committed, ...... 1855

Committee for Indian Affairs reported, - - 1855
Committee for the City of Philadelphia requested
to furnish a supply of Powder for Ticonderoga
and Crown Point, ..... 1855

27, Governour Skene sent under guard to Connecti-

cut, to be confined there on parole, - - 1855

Letter from Massachusetts Convention, dated June

20, with several other Letters, received and read, 1855
Instructions to General Schuyler, who is autho-
rized to take possession of St. John's, Montreal,
or any other part of Canada, if practicable, and
not disagreeable to the Canadians, - - 1855
Address to the Inhabitants of Great Britain, re-
ported, 1856

28, Consideration of the Articles of War resumed,

and debated, 1856

29, Letters and Speeches from the Chiefs of the Stock-

bridge Indians, to the Congress, and a Mes-
sage from them to the Canada Indians, re-
ceived, and read, ..... 1856
Consideration of the Articles of War resumed,
debated, and deferred till to-morrow, - - 1856

30, Articles of War further considered and agreed to, 1856
Committee to examine the Rules and Articles of

War, and get them printed, - ... 1863
Committee for Indian Affairs directed to prepare
proper Talks for the Indians, ... 1863
July 1, If any Agent of the Ministry shall induce any of
the Indian Tribes to commit hostilities against
the Colonies, then the Colonies ought to avail
themselves of an alliance with such of the In-
dians as will unite with them to oppose British

Troops, 1863

General Schuyler directed not to remove Gene-
ral Wooster from New- York, but to raise as
many Green Mountain Boys as will be neces-
sary to execute his Instructions of the 27th of
June, 1863

3, State of America further considered in Commit-

tee of the Whole, and further report, in part,
made, - 1863

4, Two Acts of the present Parliament for restrain-

ing the Trade and Commerce of the Colonies,
are unconstitutional, oppressive, and cruel, and
the Continental Association should apply to

them, 1864

Petition to the King further considered, debated,
and postponed till to-morrow, ... 1864

5, Letters from General Schuyler of the 2d and 3d

of July, received and read, ... 1864

Order of the 27th of June, respecting the sending
of Governour Skene to Connecticut, to be car-
ried into immediate execution, ... 1864
Petition to the King further considered, debated,
and agreed to, ------ 1865

6, Address to the Inhabitants of Great Britain further

considered and recommitted, ... 1865

Declaration by the Representatives of the United
Colonies, of North-America, now met in Con-
gress, at Philadelphia, setting forth the causes
and necessity of their taking up arms, - - 1865
Fragment of a Speech made in the General Con-
gress of America, by one of the Delegates,

(Note,) 1865

Committee directed to prepare a Letter to the
Lord Mayor, Aldermen, and Livery of Lon-
don, - 1869

7, Address to the People of Great Britain, again

reported, and, after debate, the further consi-
deration deferred till to-morrow, - - - If

CLt

1775.

Jul;/ 8, Petition to the King, signed by the several Mem-
bers, -------

Letter to the Lord Mayor, &c, of London, re-
ported and road, -

Committee to prepare a Letter to Richard Penn,
and the Colony Agents, in England, - -

Address to the Inhabitants of Great Britain,
further considered, debated, and agreed to,

Letter to the Lord Mayor, Aldermen, and Livery
of London, ------

LeU6t to Mr. Penn and the Colony Agents, -

10, A Gentleman well acquainted with the situation

and disposition of the Indians, introduced and

heard by the Congress, -
Talks to the Indians reported and read, »
Report of the Committee on putting the Militia

in a proper state of defence, was made, read,

debated, and deferred till to-morrow,

1 1, Report on Indian Affairs taken up, read, debated,

and deferred till to-morrow, -

An Address of the Deputies from the different
Parishes of the Island of Bermuda, presented
and read, - - - - -

12, Gentleman in Town, from the Province of Clue-

beck, called in to give intelligence of the dis-
position of the Canadians, - - - -

Report of the Committee on Indian Affairs, con-
sidered, debated, and agreed to,

Committee to devise ways and means to protect
the Trade of these Colonies,

Speech to the Six Nations of Indians, read,
debated, and agreed to,

Commissioners for Indian Affairs in the Middle
and Northern Departments chosen,

14, Report of the Committee on the Militia further

considered and debated, - - - -

15, Report on the Militia resumed, and agreed to, -
Vessels importing Gunpowder, Saltpetre, Sul-
phur, Brass Fieldpieces, or good Muskets
fitted with Bayonets, permitted to load with the
produce of the Colonies,

Extracts from intercepted Letters from Lord
Dartmouth to Governour Martin and Govern-
our Wright, received and read, - - -

Talk to the Stockbridge Indians considered,
debated, and agreed to, ...

17, General Wooster directed to send one thousand

of the Connecticut Forces under his command
to Albany, ......

President directed to write an Answer to the Ad-
dress from Bermuda,

18, Commissioners of the Northern Department di

rected to employ Mr. Kirkland among the Six
Nations of Indians, .....
Report of the Committee on putting the Militia
in a proper state of defence, considered and
agreed to, ....

19, Letter from the General, with sundry Papers, re-

ceived, 1886

Company of Matrosses to be raised in Philadel-
phia, and sent to the Army before Boston,

Committee to report on the method of establish-
ing a Hospital, ...

New-Hampshire, Massachusetts-Bay, Rhode-
Island and Connecticut requested to complete
and forward their Regiments without delay, -

Paragraph in the General's Letter, respecting an
easier communication between him and the
Congress, referred for consideration on Satur-
day next, --....

Committee to bring in an estimate of the expenses
incurred by the Votes and Resolves of Con-
gress,

Choice of the Commissioners for Indian Affairs in
the Southern Department, left to the Council of
Safety for South-Carolina, - - . .

20, Letter from the Convention of Georgia, setting

forth that that Colony had acceded to the Gene-
ral Association, and appointed Delegates to
attend the Congress, -
General Schuyler empowered to dispose of and
employ all the Troops in the New- York
Department as he may think best,

21, Address to the Inhabitants of Jamaica, reported

and laid on the tal

CONTENTS.

CLll

1870

1872

1872

1872

1877
1878

1878
1878

- 1878
1878

- 1878

1878
- 1878

1880
1880

- 1883

1883
1883

- 1883

1884

- 1884

1884

- 1884

1886

- 1885

1886

- 1886

1886

1886

1886

1887

- 1887

1887

1887

24,

25,

1775.

Address to the Inhabitants of Ireland, reported
and laid on the table, ....

Articles of Confederation and Perpetual Union,
submitted by Dr. Franklin, -

State of America further considered in Commit-
tee of the Whole, - - - - -

Committee on protecting the Trade of the Colo'
Dies, reported, -----

General Washington authorized to keep such a
body of Forces in Massachusetts as he shall
think necessary, provided they do not exceed
twenty-two thousand, -

July 22, Report of the Committee on protecting the Trade
of the Colonies, considered, and postponed to
some future day, ....

State of America further considered in Commit-
tee of the Whole, .....

Committee to consider and report upon the Reso-
lution of the House of Commons of February
20, commonly called Lord North's Motion, -

State of America further considered in Commit-
tee of the Whole, .....

Report from the Committee for establishing a
Hospital, presented, .....

Report of the Committee for establishing Posts,
brought in, ...

Answer to the Resolution of the House of Com-
mons, presented, read, and ordered to lie on the
table for consideration, ....

Delegates for Pennsylvania directed to send under
safe convoy to General Washington, six tons
of the Continental Gunpowder, just arrived in
Philadelphia, .-.-..

Address to the Assembly of Jamaica,

Five thousand Troops to be stationed in the New-
York Department, .....

One Million of Dollars, additional, in Bills of
Credit, to be emitted, ....

Committee to sign the Bills, ...

Committee to revise the Journal, and prepare it for
the press, ......

Report of the Committee on establishing a Post-
Office, ageeed to,

Benjamin Franklin chosen Postmaster General,

Report of the Committee on establishing a Hospi-
tal, considered and agreed to,

Fifty Thousand Dollars appropriated for the im-
portation of Gunpowder for the Continental
Armies, --.--..

Address to the People of Ireland, considered and
agreed to, ......

Pay of the Army established, ...

Michael Hillegas and George Clymer appoint-
ed Joint Treasurers of the United Colonies, -

Each Colony required to provide means to sink
its proportion of the Bills of Credit emitted by
this Congress, ......

Proportion or quota of each Colony,

Answer of the Congress to the Resolutions of the
House of Commons of the 20th February last,

Commitee to make inquiry in the recess of Con-
gress, in all the Colonies, for virgin Lead and
Lead Ore, and the best methods of collecting,
smelting and refining it, ...

State of the Trade of the Colonies, after the 10th
of September next, considered and postponed to
a future day, ----..

Two Petitions respecting disputes between the
People of Connecticut and Pennsylvania, pre-
sented, read, and laid on the table for the
perusal of the Members, -

Two Petitions, from sundry Merchants in New-
York and Philadelphia, respecting the sale
of Teas, imported before the Association, pre-
sented and laid on the table, ...
1, Moneys appropriated for various purposes con-
nected with the defence and protection of the
Colonies, -----

Petitions respecting the disputes between the
People of Connecticut and Pennsylvania, re-
ferred to the next meeting of the Congress, -

Explanation of the Resolve of the last Congress,
prohibiting exportation to Great Britain, Ire-
land and the West-Indies -

Adjourned to Tuesday the fifth of September next,

1887

1887

1889

- 1889

- 1889

- 18

26,

27,

28,

29,

31,

Aug.

1889

1889
1890
1890
1890

1890

1890
1890

1892

1892
1899

1892

1892
1893

1893

1893

1894
1897

1898

1898
1898"

1899

1902

1902

1902

1902

- 1902

1904

1904
1904

DOCUMENTARY HISTORY, &c.

CORRESPONDENCE, MISCELLANEOUS PAPERS, PROCEEDINGS OF COMMITTEES, &c.

LETTER FROM THE GENERAL COMMITTEE, AT CHARLES-
TOWN, S. C.j TO THE NEW-YORK COMMITTEE.

Charlestown, South-Carolina, March 1, 1775.

Gentlemen : It was with equal surprise and concern
that we read in the publick prints what passed in your
House of Assembly on the 26th of January, with respect
to the proceedings of the General Congress. It is im-
possible for us, at this distance, to conjecture the reasons
which induced the Assembly to refuse their formal assent
to the Solemn Agreement of all these Colonies. We are
obliged to suspend our judgment until we hear from you ;
and will not even permit ourselves to conclude that it is
owing either to a neglect of the united voice of America,
or to want of spirit in the cause of freedom. — In the midst
of the pain that we feel at this singular instance of Pro-
vincial policy, we console ourselves with the apprehension
that it was intended, not as a declaration of their real in-
clinations, but only as a prudential measure : that they
having been chosen antecedent to the present dispute, and
therefore not with a particular view to it, might suppose
the necessity of their interfering, superseded by a posterior
choice. We console ourselves with the thought that the
legal Representatives of your respectable Colony, by refu-
sing to act, did not mean to hold up to the world the opin-
ion of their Constituents, but have only left it to another re-
presentation, not so much according to the letter of the law,
but equally respectable, and as much to be depended on.

We only beg leave to make this remark upon their
policy : that they have therein singled themselves out from
the rest of the Colonies ; who, as far as they have had the
opportunity, have come unanimously into the measures of
the General Congress. And we cannot but think it would
have been much more happy for the whole, had there been
no exception. Indeed, although the House of Assembly
in this Colony hath nobly and unanimously adopted the
Proceedings of the General Congress, yet they have not
had it in idea to take the matter wholly into their own
hands, independent of the Provincial Congress ; but even
now, while that Assembly is sitting, the General Commit-
tee of the Colony also sits and does business, independent
of the House. A measure this, necessary in the Royal
Governments, where the liableness of the Assembly to sud-
den prorogations and dissolutions, renders their proceeding
in business wholly dependant on the creatures of the Crown.
Much, therefore, as we are surprised at the conduct of
your Assembly, we are not so ignorant as to imagine it is
the definite voice of the Colony ; and, indeed, we do not
allow ourselves to entertain a suspicion that your Resolu-
tions would not be the same with those of the rest of the
Colonies, if you only had a full and free representation of
the whole Colony elected on the present occasion : such a
representation we hope to hear of in due time.

We are not insensible of the consequence of your Colo-
ny in the great chain of American Union. — Nor do we
imagine the Ministry insensible of it ; we are well aware
of your unhappy situation, and of the many artful mea-
sures that have been, and now are, taking, if possible, to
throw you into confusion. We are well aware of the poi-
Folrth Series. — Vol. ii.

son that is daily distilling from some of your pensioned
presses, and the hireling writers that have crept in among
you. We are not ignorant of that crowd of placemen, of
contractors, of officers, and needy dependants upon the
Crown, who are constantly employed to frustrate your
measures. We know the dangerous tendency of being
made the head-quarters of America for many years. All
these things, though they necessarily tend to clog the
wheels of publick spirit, yet do not cause us to doubt of
your publick virtue, as a Colony : nay, we assure our-
selves, that your love to Constitutional Liberty, to justice,
and your posterity, however depressed for a little while,
will at last surmount all obstacles, and do honour to New-
York.

The present struggle seems to us most glorious and
critical. We seem to ourselves to stand upon the very
division line, between all the blessings of freedom, and the
most abject vassalage. The very idea of an earthly power
which shall bind the present and future millions of America
in all cases whatsoever — in the direction of which we are
to have no more voice than our oxen, and over which we
can have no constitutional control, fills us with horrour ; —
to hold not only our liberty and property at will, but our
lives also, as well as the lives of all our posterity ! — to be
absolutely dependant for the air in which we breathe, and
the water which we drink, upon a set of men at the dis-
tance of three thousand miles from us — who, even when
they abuse that power, are out of the reach of our ven-
geance, is a proposal which this Colony hears with indig-
nation, and can only submit to when there is no possible
remedy. By the late detestable Acts of the British Par-
liament respecting America, all mankind will judge whether
that body may be safely entrusted with such a power. We
have now appealed to the remaining justice of the Nation ;
we have endeavoured to arouse them to a sense of their
own dangers ; we have appealed to their mercantile inte-
rests for our defence. Our hopes of success are not yet
damped by anything but the possibility of disunion among
ourselves. We have the pleasure to inform you that in
this Colony the Association takes place, as effectually as
law itself. Sundry Vessels from England have already-
been obliged to return with their Merchandise, or have it
thrown overboard as common ballast.

We may assure you of our fixed determination to adhere
to the Resolutions at all hazards, and that Ministerial op-
position is here obliged to be silent. We wish for the day
when it shall be silenced among you likewise. And what-
ever noise is made by the friends of arbitrary rule about
the design of those proceedings in your House of Assem-
bly, we cannot and will not believe that you intend to
desert the cause.

Three things, however, oblige us to write to you.

First. The general alarm which the proceedings above-
mentioned have given, that we may obtain from you certain
intelligence of the disposition of your Colony, whether
those proceedings are to be understood as the general sense
of the good people of New- York, or only of a bare ma-
jority of the House.

1

CORRESPONDENCE, PROCEEDINGS, be., MARCH, 1773.

Secondly. That we may learn from you, whether the
Association of the General Congress has actually been
adopted by you, and is now put into execution. On these
two points we beg you will give us the earliest intelligence
possible, that we may be able (as we have not the least
doubt that we shall be) thereby to quiet the anxiety of the
people of this Province, and prevent the tools of Ministry
from exulting at any appearance of disunion. And lastly,
that we may suggest to you an expedient, which, with great
sucoew, has been tried in this Province, viz : that of a
Provincial Congress, in which every corner of the Colony
is fully and largely represented. As yet we have not had
the pleasure of hearing that you have adopted this or any
similar measure. And although we would not be under-
stood as presuming to dictate to our brethren, yet we would
take the liberty to inform them that this measure has given
the greatest satisfaction here, and so firmly united the Town
and Country, that we are thereby become one compact
regularly organized body. The enemies of American free-
dom are aware of the cementing tendency of such a step,
arid wherever they have influence, endeavour to prevent
it, well knowing that while the different Districts of a Colo-
ny are kept apart, they do not all receive the same infor-
mation, and are exposed to the baneful effects of jealousy
and division, especially when any considerable part sup-
poses itself neglected by not being called in to give its
voice. And we find, that the larger this representation is,
the less the danger of corruption and influence ; the more
is sly deceit deterred from venturing its efforts ; and the
more weight goes with every determination. The Con-
gress of this Colony consists of one hundred and eighty-
four Members, and is by far the fullest representation of it
that ever has been together before.

We, therefore, as brethren united in the same cause, do
only beg leave to recommend the above measure, already
found by experience, of such utility in sundry of the Royal
Governments, but especially in this. The necessity of
electing Delegates to the Congress in May, we are assured,
will show the expediency of such a Provincial meeting.

We feel ourselves bound to you by the closest ties of
interest and affection. — We consider this season as big with
American glory, or with American infamy.

We therefore most ardently wish you the direction and
aid of that Almighty Being who presides over all. We
confidently expect to meet you in General Congress at
Philadelphia, with hearts full of zeal in our Country's
cause, and full of mutual confidence in the integrity of
each other. We are, gentlemen, your friends and fellow-
countrymen.

By order of the General Committee,

Charles Pinckney, Chairman.

part of this Colony, to use their best endeavours to estab-
lish a trade between the Colonies ; and to procure a quan-
tity of (iiin-poirilvr, and a number of Cotton and Wool
Cards from the Northward, or elsewhere.

We desire further, that you will not depart from the
Association formed by the Continental Congress in Septem-
ber last, but will strictly adhere to it in every particular.

INSTRUCTIONS FROM THE FREEHOLDERS OF CUMBERLAND
COUNTY, VIRGINIA.

To John Mayo and William Fleming, Gentlemen, their
Delegates, March, 1775.
We, the Freeholders of Cumberland County, having
elected you to represent us in a Provincial Convention, to
be held in the Town of Richmond, on Monday, the 20th
of this instant, and being convinced that the safety and
happiness of British America depend on the unanimity,
firmness, and joint efforts of all the Colonies, we expect
you will, on your parts, let your measures be as much for
the common safety as the peculiar interests of this Colony
will permit, and that you, in particular, comply with the
recommendation of the Continental Congress, in appoint-
ing Delegates to meet in the City of Philadelphia, in May
next.

The means of Constitutional legislation in this Colony
being now interrupted, and entirely precarious, and being
convinced that some rule is necessary for speedily puttin°
the Colony in a state of defence, we, in an especial man-
ner, recommend this matter to your consideration in Con-
vention ; and you may depend that any general tax, by
that body imposed, for such purposes, will be cheerfully
submitted to, and paid by the inhabitants of this County.

We desire that you will consider the Bostonians as
suffering in the common cause, and cheerfully join in their
support to the utmost of your power.

That you will direct the Deputies to Congress, on the

Committee Chamber, Now.York, 1st March, l?7.r>.

To the Freeholders and Freemen of the City and County
of New-York.

As the last Congress, held in Philadelphia, recommended
that another Congress should be convened at the same place,
on the 10th day of May next, and the election of Dele-
gates ought not to be longer delayed, and most of the other
Colonies having already appointed them, and as the Com-
mittee has no power, without the approbation of their con-
stituents, to take any measures for that purpose : they
therefore request, that the Freeholders and Freemen of
the City and County of New-York, will be pleased to as-
semble at the Exchange, on Monday, the 6th instant, at
twelve o'clock, to signify their sense of the best method of
choosing such Delegates, and whether they will appoint a
certain number of persons, to meet such Deputies as the
Counties may elect for that purpose, and join with them in
appointing out of their body, Delegates for the next Con-
gress. By order of the Committee,

Isaac Low, Chairman.

ADDRESS TO THE SOLDIERS ORDERED TO AMERICA.

London, March, 1775.

The following Address has been sent to Ireland for pub-
lication, and should be published in all the American
Papers : —

Gentlemen : You are about to embark for America to
compel your fellow-subjects there to submit to Popery and
Slavery.

It is the glory of the British Soldier, that he is the de-
fender, not the destroyer of the civil and religious rights of
the people. The English Soldiery are immortalized in
history for their attachment to the religion and liberties of
their Country.

When King James the Second endeavoured to introduce the
Roman Catholick Religion and arbitrary power into Great
Britain, he had an Army encamped on Hounslow-Heath, to
terrify the people. Seven Bishops were seized upon and sent
to the Tower. But they appealed to the laws of their Coun-
try, and were set at liberty. When this news reached the
camp, the shouts of joy were so great, that they re-echoed
in the Royal Palace. This, however, did not quite con-
vince the King of the aversion of the Soldiers to be the in-
struments of oppression against their fellow-subjects. He
therefore made another trial. He ordered the Guards to be
drawn up, and the word was given that those who did not
choose to support the King's measures should ground their
arms. When behold, to his utter confusion, and their
eternal honour — the whole body grounded their arms.

You, gentlemen, will soon have an opportunity of show-
ing equal virtue. You will be called upon to imbrue your
hands in the blood of your fellow-subjects in America, be-
cause they will not submit to be slaves, and are alarmed
at the establishment of Popery and arbitrary power in one-
half of their Country.

Whether you will draw those swords which have de-
fended them against their enemies, to butcher them into
a resignation of their rights, which they hold as the sons of
Englishmen, is in your breasts. That you will not stain
the laurels you have gained from France, by dipping them
in civil blood, is every good man's hope.

Art will no doubt be used to persuade you, that it is
your duty to obey orders ; and that you are sent upon the
just and righteous errand of crushing rebellion. But your
own hearts will tell you, that the people may be so ill-
treated as to make resistance necessary. You know, that
violence and injury offered from one man to another, has
always some pretence of right and reason to justify it. So
it is between the people and their rulers.

Therefore, whatever hard names and accusations may
be bestowed upon your fellow-subjects in America, be as-

CORRESPONDENCE, PROCEEDINGS, &c, MARCH, 1775.

6

sured that they have not deserved them; but are driven by
the most cruel treatment into despair. In this despair they
are compelled to defend their liberties, after having tried
in vain every peaceable means of obtaining redress of their
manifold grievances. Before God ana man they are
right.

lour honour then, gentlemen, as soldiers, and your
humanity as men, forbid you to be the instruments of
forcing chains upon your injured and oppressed fellow-
subjects. Remember that your first obedience is due to
God, and that whoever bids you shed innocent blood, bids
you act contrary to His commandments. Yours, &,c.

An Old Soldier.

To the Honourable the Commons of Great Britain, in
Parliament assembled.

London, March, 1775.

Gentlemen : At this important era, when the British
Empire is in danger of being involved in a civil war; when
Trade and Commerce are at a stand ; when all the horrours
of misery, poverty, and wretchedness, are hanging over
our heads ; when want and famine threaten to succeed our
former plenty, must not every Englishman shudder at the
approaching danger?

When from the height of power, opulence, and gran-
deur, we are on the point of being precipitated into the
lowest abyss of slavery and insignificance ; when from being
the first and most respectable people in the world, we shall
be sunk below the consequence of a Nation, what must not
be the feelings of every man, whose generous soul is nobly
excited by a love of his Country ? What will not be his
indignation ? What bounds will there be to his resent-
ment? Which of ye will then stand forth and confess
you have been the author of these measures ? The gene-
ral calamity, I fear, is not far distant ; and horrid as it must
be to this Country in general, still it will bring with it this
comfort, that wicked Ministers and corrupt Members of
Parliament must then render an account of their actions.
The publick justice of this Nation has been long eluded,
and calls now aloud for redress.

Be.ware, ye Ministers ; ye know not on how small a point
ye stand ; ye are now on the brink of an impenetrable
gulf; still ye have time to retract; but if tempted by
the placid flowings of its waters, ye think securely to swim
along the summit, ye are deceived. When once immerged,
the briny waves will use their wonted might, and foaming
billows send you down to the regions below. The people
of England are not yet fully apprised of their danger: but
be assured when they once come to be thoroughly sensible
of the calamities your wrong-headed measures have brought
on them, it will not be easy to stand the torrent of their
resentment. Your venal hirelings in the Senate will desert
you, or, if sensible of their being equally involved in your
guilt, from a sense of common danger they should stand
by you, do not think their weak arguments will have any
avail. The people without doors will resolve upon those
measures which those within should have done ; and ye
can expect nothing but that just punishment which your
folly, presumption, and wickedness, shall have merited.

It is foreign to my present purpose to enter into a dis-
cussion of those rights you, as the supreme power of this
Nation, claim of sovereignty over the Americans ; let it
suffice to say, it is not probable that men, who are descend-
ed from the same common ancestors with ourselves ; who
have been bred up from their childhood in the principles of
liberty, and have lived from their first settlements there in
the actual possession of this invaluable blessing ; it is not
to be imagined, I say, that such men will quietly submit,
and suffer themselves to be despoiled of that freedom their
ancestors have transmitted to them pure and inviolate; nor
is it to be conceived that men, who are not destitute of
spirit, and who have arms in their hands, will quietly lay
them down and bend their neck to the galling yoke of
tyranny ; or is it likely that those who have a superiour force,
able to crush their opponents, will be terrified by empty
threats or menaces, when those threats are unsupported by
authority, and unaided by justice? Your decrees will fall
into the same ignominy and contempt as the denunciations
of the Court of Rome. You might as well think to intimi-
date these people by the Pope's Bulls, as by Acts of Parlia-

ment. For what, indeed, signify threats or menaces, with-
out the two essentials necessary to support them — justice
and power ; — the one to persuade, the other to enforce ?
In the present contest with America, 1 think 1 may safely
say you are destitute of both.

Is it reasonable or equitable that such of ye as represent
Northumberland, Cumberland, or any other County in
England, or more especially such of ye as are placed in
the House of Commons by the servile and corrupt votes of
dependant Boroughs in the different parts of the Kingdom,
should govern a large and extensive Country at three thou-
sand miles distant ? What knowledge have ye of Ameri-
ca 1 What know ye of its concerns ? Have ye been in-
structed by the people of that land ? Are ye acquainted
with their manners and their customs ; the state of their
finances ; the riches and numbers of their people, and what
imposts they are able to bear, and what would entirely
crush them ? To all these questions I believe I may safely
answer in the negative : But in reply you say, you think
it is reasonable that they, as members of the British Em-
pire, should bear a part of the burden and expense, not
considering that by the advantages which accrue to Great
Britain from the Commerce of these countries, and by the
restrictions we have laid on their Trade with all other Na-
tions, we already receive more and greater benefits from
them than their proportion of taxes would amount to.
Wisely then have ye done to stop this certain source of
riches, from the vain and improbable hope of taking from
them by force what they already paid with good will.

I need not remind you of the story of the old woman,
whose hen brought her a golden egg every morning, and
would have continued so to do had not the covetous old
hag thought, by killing the hen, she should at once obtain
the whole mass of riches, which now she could only re-
ceive by detail, and accordingly put in force this cruel reso-
lution. The fable tells you what was the consequence.

Now, how nearly you stand in the same predicament
with this old woman, I leave to yourselves to determine :
But if I grant that the Americans should pay a proportional
tax, besides maintaining their own internal Government,
what right have ye to be the assessors ? To sit in the
British Parliament, a landed qualification is necessary.
But where must that qualification be situated ? Why,
within the Island of Great Britain. It is a maxim of our
law, that no man shall be taxed but by his own consent,
given either in person or by his Representative. I should
be glad to know what assent ye can give for the Ameri-
cans. Few or none of ye possess any property in Ameri-
ca, or if ye do, it is not in virtue of such property ye sit in
the British Senate ; therefore, whatever burden you lay on
their shoulders will be so much clear gains to yourselves.
You will not feel the weight of the taxes, which, with so
much ease and confidence, you order to be levied on the
Americans. Some of you. indeed, may know the value
of the sums raised, by the shares you received of the spoils.
The Minister cannot be so ungrateful as to neglect adding
to your salaries, when by your means he shall have brought
about his end, and increased his own. But how. weak
these measures are, and how ineffectual, a very short time
will demonstrate. Indeed, except yourselves, who will
not be convinced ? Every one is sensible of the dangerous
situation to which we are now reduced.

Now, gentlemen, let me advise you, as you regard your
own prosperity — let me conjure you as you value your
safety, to consider well the situation of this unfortunate
Country ; look on the dangers that threaten it on every
hand ; consider not only the inexpediency of those measures,
but the total inability of this Country to go through with
them. Do you imagine the French and Sjianiards will
be tame and idle spectators, when they see us once deeply
involved in a war with our Colonies? Throw off" then
your supine indolence; awake from your lethargick state;
and if ye will not be excited by the desire of doing good,
awake at least to the sense of your own danger. Think
when the general calamity comes, who will be the objects
of publick odium. Will not the advisers of these destruc-
tive measures be the first sacrifices to the publick clamour?
When the Merchants, Traders, and Manufacturers are starv-
ing : when the whole mass of the people are in misery and
distress, what security can you expect to find? Where
will you hope to conceal yourselves? Will you be safe

CORRESPONDENCE, PROCEEDINGS, &c, MARCH, 1775.

even within these sacred walls : Or rather, may you not
fear being pursued, not only there, but even into your most
secret lurking holes: Strafford and Laud were con-
demned, and justly executed for being the advisers of
arbitrary measures. The King, had be been able, would
have protected them ; they only echoed back to him his
own sentiments, strengthened by their flattery ami
quiousness. Rut weak is [he power of rulers when opposed
to the wants and distresses, the rage and resentment of the
rnullil

When the artificers and handicraftsmen come by thou-
sands to your House, demanding bread, it will be too late
to argue ; — the mischief will be done. You then will hue
only to conceal your obnoxious heads, and save yourselves
if you can, from popular resentment and publick justice.
'There may be a time, and I believe that time will soon
come, when the nod and smiles of the Minister will bo
shunned with as much care as they are now sought for with
eagerness

Once more I admonish you to awake before it is too late.
Stop the further progress of the evil ye cannot now totally
cure ; and though ye will not be roused by a love of your
Country, nor a sense of the impending ruin which threatens
us, yet consider your own danger, as most assuredly such
of ye as have been the advisers of these measures will be
the first sacrifices, Repeal then these accursed Acts ;
acknowledge yourselves to have been in the wrong, and
thus atone, as much as now lies in your power, for the mis-
chiefs you have already occasioned. Monitor.

COUNCIL, OF NORTH-CAROLINA.

At a Council held at Newbern, in North- Carolina,
the 1st of March, 1775,

Present: His Excellency the Governour, the Hon. Jas.
Hasell, Hon. John Rutherford, Hon. Samuel Strudwicke,
Martin Howard, and Samuel Cornell, Esquires.

His Excellency informed the Hoard that he had observed
an Advertisement published in the Newspapers, and circu-
lated through this Colony by Handbills, dated Perquimons
County, 11th February, 1775, requesting the Counties
and Towns thereof, to elect Delegates to represent them
in Convention, at the Town of Newbern, on Monday,
the third of April next, and signed John Harvey, Mode-
rator. And considering such proceedings to be highly
derogatory to the dignity of the Legislature appointed to
meet at the same time, and in every light illegal and incon-
sistent with good order and Government, recommended the
matter to the consideration of the Board, and desired their
advice of the measures to be taken to contravene the design
of said Advertisement.

The Board conceiving the highest detestation of such
proceedings, were unanimous in advising His Excellency to
issue a Proclamation to inhibit and forbid such illegal meet-
ing ; in the following words :

By His Excellency Josiah Martin, Esquire, Captain
General, Governour, and Commander-in-chief in and
over the said Province :

A Proclamation.

Whereas, an Advertisement is printed in the publick
Newspapers, and also industriously circulated about this
Colony in handbills, dated from Perquimons County, the
Hth day of February, 1775, requesting the Counties and
lowns thereof to elect Delegates to represent them in
Convention, at the Town o( Newbern, on Monday, the 3d
day of April next, and signed John Harvey, Moderator.
And whereas, the name and authority of such an officer,
and such meeting, ,s unknown to the Laws and Constitution
ot this Country ; and such an invitation to the people may
tend to ensnare the unwary and ignorant among His Ma-
jesty s loyal and faithful subject, in this Province, to par-
take in the guilt of such unlawful proeeedings-

Ami whereas, the Assembly of this Province, duly
elected, is the only true and lawful representation of the
people, and is competent to every legal act that Representa-
tives of the people can do ; and as an attempt to excite the
people to choose another body of Representatives to meet
at the time and place appointed for the meeting of the As-
sembly, is to betray them into a violation of the Cor,
lion, in a point wherein they are most materially concerned

to support it : a contempt of that branch of the Legislature
which represents the people, and highly derogatory to its
power, rights, and privileges ; I have thought proper, by and
with the advice and consent of His Majesty's Council of
this Province, to issue this Proclamation : and 1 do hereby
earnestly exhort the many good people of this Province,
who have to their honour, hitherto prudently withstood the
insidious attempts of evil-minded and designing men, that
they do, on this occasion, steadfastly persevere in such
loyal and dutiful conduct, and continue to resist and treat
with just indignation all measures so subversive of order
and Government, and so inconsistent with the allegiance
they owe to His Majesty ; and that they do not subject
themselves to the restraints of tyrannical and arbitrary
Committees, which have already, in many instances, pro-
ceeded to the extravagance of forcing His Majesty's subjects,
contrary to their consciences, to submit to their unreason-
able, seditious, and chimerical Resolves, doing thereby the
most cruel and unparalleled violence to their liberties,
under the pretence of releasing them from imaginary griev-
ances ; and I do further exhort all His Majesty's subjects in
this Province, as they value their dearest rights under the
present happy Constitution, and as they would testily their
duty and allegiance to the best of Kings, that they forbear
to meet to choose persons to represent them in Convention,
pursuant to the advertisement herein before recited ; and I
also do most earnestly recommend to them to renounce,
disclaim, and discourage all such meetings, cabals, and ille-
gal proceedings, which artful and designing men shall
attempt to engage them in, and which can only tend to
introduce disorder and anarchy, to the destruction of the
real interests and happiness of the people, and to involve
this Province in confusion, disgrace and ruin.

Given under my hand and the great seal of the said Prov-
ince, at Newbern, the first day of March, Anno Domini,
1775, and in the 15th year of His Majesty's reign.
God save the King.

Josiah Martin.

By His Excellency's command,

Samuel Strudwicke, Secretary.

TO THE PRINTERS OF THE PENNSYLVANIA GAZETTE.

Philadelphia, February 22, 177.5.

Gentlemen : I rejoice to find that, in a Province distin-
guished for its progress in science and literature as Penn-
sylvania, the few sons of despotism are reduced to the pen-
sioned pen of some ministerial hireling at Boston. Believe
me, gentlemen, your Paper did not gain an extensive cir-
culation from the gleanings of others ; its value has been
owing to the originality, as well as the elegance of its es-
says. Every Newspaper, from New-Hampshire to Georgia,
(two at Boston, and one at New- York, excepted,) would
furnish refutations of the re-publication in your last Paper,
signed Phileirene. But I will not ask you to serve up to
your readers, at second-hand, what will be more accept-
able as an original, though of a coarser and humbler compo-
sition. I therefore beg leave to present to my fellow-sub-
jects and citizens

The other side of the Question.
It is a just remark of the celebrated Chesterfield to his
son, that grant him but two or three positions, and he would
undertake, by fair inference, to prove that robbing on the
highway is an honest, and ought to be a reputable calling.
Happy would it be if the sacred rights of mankind were as
safe in this respect, as the persons of individuals. But the
superiour temptations to justify the invasion of the former,
are too alluring not to afford melancholy proofs, in every
age and Country, of a prostitution of the most shining ta-
lents, to gild the pill of arbitrary power and lawless domi-
nation. When we see a Bacon, a Milton, a Strafford, and
Bo/ingbroke, sacrificing at their shrine, can we be surprised
if men of such principles, but far inferiour abilities, should
appear among us, with the Treasury of England in full
view, and hearts panting to lord it over their fellow-men ?
Divine Providence has endowed the inhabitants of Ame-
rica with rational powers not inferiour to those of any other
Country ; it is but justice to say, they have generally im-
proved them better than any other. By their good sense
and judgment shall this author be tried, whose facts, mo-
desty, style, accuracy, and precision, have been thought

CORRESPONDENCE, PROCEEDINGS, &c, MARCH, 1775.

10

worthy of a re-publication, which occupies half your last
Paper, to the exclusion of all Foreign news, for which it
has been distinguished. This fair structure is built on two
principles.

1st. That the Americans have entire independence on
the Mother Country in view, as the great object of their
present contest.

2d. That all opposition to what is called Government, is
rebellion.

Both these propositions are false and groundless ; the
writer was not able to prove, and therefore takes them for
granted; but I may, with honest boldness, challenge him,
of his adopting friend, to show, from the publick transac-
tions of any Congress or Assembly throughout this great
Continent, that such a claim was ever in their contempla-
tion. Are the repeated and fervent acknowledgments of
our allegiance to our common Sovereign; our submission
to all his appointments of office, from the Governour to the
lowest deputy's deputy; to his negative upon all our laws;
to his decisions in Council, as the dernier resort in the ad-
ministration of justice, and the payment of quit-rents ; I ask
if these are the badges of independence? But they do not
end here. With what exemplary patience and obedience
have we submitted to the restraints of Trade, and even an
abridgment of the common bounties of Heaven. Tiie
water is not permitted to (low, or the earth to produce, for
the same beneficial purposes to the American as for the
Briton. In a Country where the price of manual labour
calls for the utmost exertion of art and ingenuity, we are
restrained from slitting or rolling iron, so as to answer some
of the most important purposes in life. These are restric-
tions to which we not only have submitted, but to which
the great Council of America has professed its willingness
to submit. With what shameless affrontery can any writer,
therefore, charge the people of America with seeking inde-
pendence, when every transaction of Government, of trade,
of justice, and manufactures, originates, proceeds, or termi-
nates under the control of Great Britain. But the thirst
of power is so raging and insatiable, that it esteems nothing
possessed, while any thing remains to be possessed; impa-
tient of all restraints, its desires perpetually outrun its en-
joyments, and it can be satisfied with nothing less than an
entire and full surrender of the liberty and happiness of
mankind. What use it has made of its acquisitions, let the
deserted villages, ruined towns, and uncultivated fields of
arbitrary Countries declare. If to live by one man's will,
would be all men's misery, can we suppose that we shall
derive any relief from the number of our tyrants, or that
our burden would be lighter, because many hands were
concerned in the imposition.

Our author's next position is, that opposition of every
kind to the powers set over us, however exercised, is
rebellion. Those ornaments of human nature, Locke,
Sydney, Jloadley, and many other illustrious names, have
so refuted these absurd doctrines of passive obedience and
non-resistance ; and they are so repugnant to the common
sen=e and happiness of mankind, that it would 'be an affront
to the understandings of my countrymen to suppose they
could now admit of a serious argument. If the good of
the people is the end of all Government, if limitations of
power have, by the experience of all ages, been found
necessary for the safety of the governed, if a participation
in legislation has been found to be the best and only limi-
tation, with what pity and concern must we view that infa-
tuation which can obtrude doctrines in America long since
reprobated in Britain, as subversive of every principle of
political safety and happiness. With men of such charac-
the noble struggles of our ancestors against the prero-
gatives of the Crown were so many odious exertions of
wickedness and folly. — Magna Charta, Trial by Juries, and
exemption from arbitrary and perpetual imprisonment, are
fruits of the most detestable impiety and treason; nay!
the Resolution itself, as founded and formed by a resist-
ance to that Government, but the basis and foundation of
the present, was a successful rebellion. These are the
stale artifices of our Court sycophants of every age. It
would be an outrage upon the understandings, as well as
rights of mankind, to call tyranny and slavery by their
proper names, when they were seeking to establish them.
Under the specious title of laws and Government, they
to lull the vigilant, deter the timid, and damp the en-

terprising, till the shackles are riveted on, and the deluded
wretches find, too late, that the will of their masters is the
only law, and oppression the only Government. To draw
the line, I confess, is no easy task ; but wherever legal
Government ends, there tyranny most certainly b>
To show that this terminated as to the Colonies, in the
year 1763, a period in which the independency of Ameri-
ca was never thought of, and to which our highest hopes
and ambition is to return ; to enumerate the proofs, the
odious, but indisputable proofs of this, and to show that
our present opposition has every prospect of success, I
must refer to another letter, lest 1 should exclude some
more able writer, or incur my own censure. In the mean
time, my dear countrymen and fellow-citizens, read the
histories of those Countries which were once free ; converse
with those, (for we have many among us) who have fled
hither from arbitrary States; acquaint yourselves with their
ruinous taxes, their venal courts of justice, their merciless
depredations upon the chastity, property, liberty, and hap-
piness of their vassals; then reason, and judge, and if you
are not lost to every sentiment of publick virtue, the hon-
our of your country, and regard for yourselves and your
posterity, your hearts will rise in grateful emotions to the
Giver of all good gifts, that He has cast your lot in a land
of freedom ; and I trust you will mingle with them a
humble but firm resolution, by His assistance, to transmit
the blessings you have received, undiminished, to the latest
posterity. " He that would give up essential liberty for
temporary safety, deserves neither liberty nor safety." —
This was the favourite motto of many in this Citv but a
very few years since. A principle of action and duty,
founded upon truth and reason, will ever continue the
same, however the persons or occasions may change. Come
forward then, ye staunch advocates for Provincial Liberty,
support your principles — this was once your Law and your
Prophets — be consistent — convince the world that you do
not act upon the local views of a party, but upon the manly
and generous principle of publick good, which upon all oc-
casions leads you to sacrifice temporary e^e to essential
liberty. Camillus.

TO THE PRINTERS OF THE PENNSYLVANIA GAZETTE.

Philadelphia, March 1, 177.3.

Gentlemen : I wish to address the understandings of
my fellow-citizens, not to inflame their passions. As in-
quirers after truth, my highest ambition is to assist them —
to furnish the clew ; their own good sense will enable them
to pursue it. 1 think an attention peculiarly due to such
publications as come recommended by the graces of style
and language ; the most deadly poison may be conveyed
in the most beautiful cup ; it may be more inviting, but it
is not the less fatal. The piece signed Phileircne is not
destitute of those graces, but he has raised a fabrick on a
foundation which only existed in his own imagination.
There must surely be singular merit in that claim which
must be misrepresented to be opposed with success. When
I hear America charged with aspiring after independence,
I ask, Were we independent on Great Britain in 1762?
That is the era to which we all look back with regret,
and to which we are anxiously seeking to return.

When I hear the Americans termed rebels, I ask, Was
the Revolution a rebellion ? That was an opposition to
Government, because Government was attempted to be
exercised in a manner inconsistent with the safety, liberty
and happiness of the governed. One man attempted to
legislate without their participation ; in our ease, this at-
tempt is made by about eight hundred ; can this circum-
stance change the nature of the action ?

When I hear any one declaiming against the American
system, I ask, Are you willing to be taxed by the British
Parliament ? A fair answer to these questions I have gen-
erally found more decisive and convincing, than the best
connected chain of reasoning. If any man can answer
them in the affirmative, 1 may pity, but cannot blame him
for withdrawing from the contest. If I was asked to state
the claims of America, I should say she has none, but that
Qreat Britain should desist from innovations, useless and
disappointing to herself, but fatal to America. We are
defendants in this great suit ; we ask but to continue in
that state, in which our own reason and judgment convinces

11

CORRESPONDENCE, PROCEEDINGS, fcc, MARCH, 1715.

12

us our safety consists, and which the experience of one
hundred years lias confirmed, as the most beneficial for
both countries.

For this Jong course of years, America, with a most un-
suspecting confidence, resigned herself to the wisdom and
virtue of the Parent State, u hose wisest .Ministers and ablest
men wen1 content with the benefits of Commerce, and
sought no power but such as tended to its increase and
security. After a long and expensive war, in which the
icons weir repeatedly acknowledged the most loyal
subjects and affectionate Colonists, a system was formed,
which proceeded step by step in dreadful progression, till
it has swallowed up every privilege and right which ought
to distinguish an English Colonist from those of arbitrary
States. Of what importance is it to us, that our fellow-
subjects, three thousand miles off, should be distinguished
from the other Nations of the earth, as free and happy,
while we have no share in the distinction. Let us com-
pare the rights of a British subject with those of an Ame-
rican, we shall see a very striking disparity.

In England. In America.

1. A trial by a jury of his coun. 1. A trial by jury only in some
try, in all cases of life and pro. cases ; subjected in otbers, to a
perty. single Judge, or a Board of Com.

missioners.
9. A trial were the offence was 2. A trial, if a Governour pleasoB,
committed. three thousand miles from the place

were the offence was committed.

3. The Civil authority supreme 3. The Military supsriour to
over the Military, and no Standing the Civil authority, and America
Army in time of peace kept up, obliged to contribute to the support
but by the consent of the people. of a Standing Army, kept up with-
out and against its consent.

4. The Judges independent of 4. The Judges made independent
the Crown and people. of the people, but dependant on the

Crown for the support and tenure
of their commissions.

5. No tax or imposition laid, but 5. Taxes and impositions laid by
by those who must partake of the those, who not only do not partake
burthen. of the burthens, but who ease them.

selves by it.

6. A free trade to all the world, 6. A trade only to such places as
except the East.Indies. Great Britain shall permit.

7. A free use and practise of all 7. The use only of such engines
engines and other devices, for sav- as Great Britain has not prohibit-
ing labour and promoting manufac- ed.

tures.

8. A right to petition the King, 8. Promoting and encouraging
and all prosecutions and commit- petitions to tho King declared the
merits therefore illegal. highest presumption, and the Lu.

gislative Assemblies of America dis-
solved therefor in 1768.

9. Freedom of debate and pro. 9. Assemblies dissolved, and their
ceedings in their legislative deli- legislative power suspended, for the
berations. free exercise of their reason and

judgment, in their legislative capa-
city.

10. For redress of grievances, 10. To prevent the redress of
amending, strengthening, and pre. grievances, or representations tend-
serving the laws, Parliaments to be ing thereto, Assamblies postponed
held frequently. for a great length of time, and pre-
vented meeting in tho most critical
times.

In a former paper I observed, that the legal Government
of America terminated in the year 1 763. A series of acts
since that time will evince the truth of my assertion.

Then, for the first time, the taxation of America was
attempted, and has been continued with unremitted assi-
duity to the present moment— then the powers of Admi-
ralty and Vice-Admiralty Courts were extended beyond
their former limits— then our property, for the first time,
was taken from us without our consent— trial by juries in
many cases of property abolished, and an innocent suitor
laid under every possible disadvantage in asserting his
rights. Soon after, the absolute Statute of Hcnrii VIII
was revived, by Resolves of both Houses of Parliament by
winch Americans may he carried to England, and tried for
offences alleged to be committed in America. In the
twelfth year of His Majesty's reign, the charge of burning
any ot the king s Ships or Stores io America was expressly
made triable in England, to the total exclusion of a jury
of the vicinage. The Acts respecting Massachusetts-Ban
are too recent to need particular enumeration; their charter
privileges, their justice, trade, and Government are wholly
subverted, without observing the common forms of justice
What has been their case, may be that of every otl
1 rovince ; and let me observe, that innocence is a pc
protection, when no opportunity is given to manifest it.

What opinion now, my fellow-citizens, ought you to form
of an author, who calls an opposition to these measures a

" Utopian scheme, quickened into publick life by an itch of
" superiority and thirst of applause ; — an infatuation, over-
" leaping all the sober bounds of law and Government;
" conducted by men who delight in the destruction of
" peace and good order; whose safety consists in their pre-
<: cipitating their Country into anarchy and confusion."
Shameless falsehoods ! calculated to impose on the weak
and unwary; to foment those divisions, and bring on that
ruin, upon which some men mean to build their own great-
ness. No, my dear fellow-citizens, look around you ; are
the men you deputed to the late Congress, those who have
been active in Committees of publick transactions ; are
they men of doubtful characters and desperate fortunes ?
Are anarchy and confusion required for their safety or es-
tablishment in life? Is a bold step for the reformation of
Government necessary to retrieve their characters ? Have
they been distinguished for a spirit of enterprise, wicked-
ness, and folly, on other occasions ?

The man whose signature is A Friend to the Constitution,
and whose sentiments are in such unison with our author,
shall determine these questions; for he must have supposed
them applicable to this Province, or their publication here
was idle. To arraign the justice of a cause ; to entangle the
honest mind in doubts and difficulties ; to cut off all hopes
and prospects of success ; to paint in terrible colours events
which have happened in dissimilar cases, and conceal the
happy issue of similar struggles, are arts which will be
practised, and against which we ought to be particularly
guarded. I have attempted to vindicate the former, and
in some future paper shall endeavour to show, that if una-
nimity accompanies our opposition, we have the utmost
reason to hope that success will crown the work, and
though we shall continue a dependant, we shall be a free
and happy people. Camillus.

ii'r
poor

NEWPORT (rHODE-ISLANd) COMMITTEE.

At a Meeting of the Committee of Inspection, for the
Town of Newport, held in the Council Chamber, on Wed-
nesday, March 1, 1775,

Mr. John Tanner in the Chair.

Resolved, That the freedom of the Press is of the ut-
most importance to civil society ; and that its importance
consists, "besides the advancement of truth, science, mo-
rality, and arts in general, in its diffusion of liberal senti-
ments on the administration of Government, its ready com-
munication of thoughts between subjects, and its conse-
quential promotion of union among them, where, by op-
pressive Officers, are shamed or intimidated into more hon-
ourable and just modes of conducting affairs ;" and there-
fore it is the duty of every friend of Civil Government to
protect, and preserve from violation, that invaluable right,
that noble pillar, and great support of Public Liberty ; and
to countenance and encourage the Press, so long as it shall
be employed in promoting those beneficial purposes. But
when, instead thereof, a Press is incessantly employed and
prostituted to the vilest uses; in publishing the most infa-
mous falsehoods ; in partial or false representations of facts ;
in fomenting jealousies, and exciting discord and disunion
among the people ; in supporting and applauding the worst
of men, and worst of measures ; and in vilifying and calum-
niating the best of characters, and the best of causes ; it
then behooves every citizen, every friend to truth, science,
arts, liberality of sentiment, to that union between subjects,
upon which depends their security against oppression, to
discountenance and discourage every such licentious, illibe-
ral, prostituted Press.

And whereas, a certain James Rivington, a Printer and
Stationer in the City of New- York, impelled by the love
of sordid pelf, and a haughty domineering spirit, hath, for
a long time, in the dirty Gazetteer, and in pamphlets, if
possible still more dirty, uniformly persists in publishing
every falsehood which his own wicked imagination, or the
imaginations of others of the same stamp, as ingenious per-
haps in mischief as himself, could suggest and fabricate, that
had a tendency to spread jealousies, fear, discord, and dis-
union through this country ; and by partial and false repre-
sentations of facts, hath endeavoured to pervert truth, and
to deceive and mislead the incautious into wrong concep-
tions of facts reported, and wrong sentiments respecting the
measures now carrying on for the recovery and establish-

43

CORRESPONDENCE, PROCEEDINGS, &c, MARCH, 1775.

14

ment of our rights, and the supporters of those measures;
and particularly hath disgorged from his infamous Press,
the most virulent, foul abuse, on the Members of the late
Continental Congress — characters which, for wisdom, in-
U'urity, fortitude, and publick virtue, deserve, and have
received, the applause of every inhabitant of this wide ex-
tended Continent, excepting a very few venal tools of a
corrupt Administration.

And all this profusion of scurrility, abuse, and falsehood,
this insidious, profligate Printer hath cast out, in order, if
it were possible, to subvert the Association which all the
American Colonies have approved, and for carrying of
which into execution the General Assembly of this Colony
have recommended Committees to be chosen : — Where-
fore, we think it our bounden duty to hold up that infa-
mous paracide, James Rivingion, to the Continent in this
odious light.

Resolved, therefore, That it is the opinion of this Com-
mittee, that no further dealings or correspondence ought to
be had with the said James Rivingion ; and we recom-
mend it to every person who takes his Paper, called Riv-
ington's Gazetteer, immediately to drop the same ; and
also take the liberty to recommend a similar conduct to-
wards him to the other Towns in the Colony.

Resolved, That this Resolution be printed in the next
^\ewj>ort Mercury. By order of the Committee,

Henry Ward, Clerk.

EXTRACT OF A LETTER FROM A GENTLEMAN IN LONDON
TO HIS FRIEND IN BOSTON, DATED MARCH 2, 1775.

The Ministry, it is now generally thought, are inflexible.
Lord North was asked again and again this week, in the
House of Commons, whether he had any thing more of a
lenient or conciliatory nature to propose. He said there
was nothing farther of that kind intended ; and acknow-
ledged that the remainder of the scheme was entirely co-
ercive. When he was asked, whether the three Bills of
the last year were to be repealed, he replied, that when
the Colonies had come to an unconditioned submission,
Parliament would consider what was fit to be done.

The Ministry are now in pretty good spirits, on account
of what they conceive to be a division among yourselves
in favour of Government, both in New- York and New-
England. We think that, like drowning men, they are
catching at every straw. Such, however, we hope their
present expectations will prove.

A friend of mine saw a Letter just received from Lord
Percy, in which he expresses his apprehensions of an at-
tack being made upon the Troops at Boston, before any
reinforcement can arrive, as the people in the Province
are provided with a competent train of Artillery ; so that
all their servants have not the same assurance of success
with themselves. But, indeed, it is impossible that the
Ministry should really think themselves so secure as they
pretend to be ; and it is even thought by many that Lord
North, when he moved for the late Resolution, really
meant to have advanced some steps towards a solid recon-
ciliation, had it not been for what is called the Bedford
party in the Cabinet. Instead of this, the terms that are
now proposed amount to nothing but an insult upon your
common sense and spirit, and, I doubt not, will be resented
accordingly.

ESSEX COUNTY (VIRGINIA) COMMITTEE.

At a Committee held for the County of Essex, in the
Town ofTappahannock, in Virginia, on Thursday, the 2d
of March, 1775, by special summons from the Chairman.

The Committee having been informed that Captain Jo-
seph Richardson, master of the Brigautine Muir, since the
fust day of February last, had imported from the Island of
Antigua, in the said Brigantine Muir, four pieces of Bri-
tish Osnaburghs, and three pieces of Irish Linen, some of
which he had sold since his arrival ; and the said Richard-
son having appeared before the Committee, agreeably to a
previous summons for that purpose, on examination, con-
fessed that upwards of two years ago he had imported into
this Colony a quantity of British Osnaburghs from Lon-
don, which he found himself unable to dispose of here, and
therefore that he had carried some of it to Antigua, and
left it there to be sold ; and having found, upon his last

voyage to that Island, that the same had not been sold, he
brought it back again to this Colony, where he arrived
since the first of February last, and sold one piece of it to
one Thomas Wood, and that he has the residue by him.
And having also acknowledged that he had imported at
the same time three pieces of Irish Linen for the use of
his family, and the same having been confirmed by the
oath of H'illiam Moore, mate of the said Brigantine, the
Committee having taken the matter under consideration,
and having found that the said Richardson was unacquaint-
ed with the Continental Association, and that he had no
intention of violating the same, or any part thereof, but that
he was willing to accede thereto, and actually did sign the
same, upon the first opportunity of doing so, are of opinion
that the said Richardson deserves no censure for his con-
duct ; but that the said Osnaburghs and Irish Linen, be-
ing prohibited by the Association, be re-exported to the
said Island of Antigua, which the said Richardson de-
clared himself willing to do. And it is ordered that Archi-
bald Ritchie and John Brockenbrough do procure from
the said Thomas Wood the piece of Osnaburghs by him
purchased, and see that the said Richardson carry the
same, as well as the other before-mentioned Linen, with
him to Antigua, upon his next voyage.

The Committee having determined to encourage Arts
and Manufactures within this Colony, as far as it is in their
power, do agree and oblige themselves to pay Fifty Pounds,
current money, to any person or persons who shall first
produce to the Committee five hundred pair of Stockings-,
men's and women's, manufactured in this County; a third
of which to be reasonably worth One Shilling Sterling a
pair; a third to be reasonably worth Two Shillings Sterling
a pair ; and the other third to be reasonably worth Three
Shillings Sterling a pair; of all which, he or they must
give this County the refusal, and that the County will
give for the same seventy-five per cent, on the above prices.
And that the Committee will give the best encouragement
to worsted combers. By order of the Committee,

J. Power, Clerk.

Remarks on the late manoeuvres in America, by a real
friend to his King and Country, and an American.

New-York, March 2, 1775.
Nothing has surprised people more than the Virginians
and Mary/anders joining with so much warmth with the
New-England Republicans in their opposition to the
ancient Constitution, which has been the glory of an
Englishman in every part of the world ; as there are cer-
tainly no Nations under the Heavens more opposite to each
other, than the inhabitants of these Colonies : it would be
very difficult to account for it on the principles of religion
or sound policy, had not the Virginians plainly discovered
their indifference to both — so highly revered by their illus-
trious ancestors — by an act as tyrannical as it is unjust, cal-
culated to serve private views, to distress thousands, and
to sap all the foundations of honesty and morality, by de-
stroying that confidence which is the support of out trade,
without which every industrious man is deprived of his just
demands. Can any thing more plainly discover the mo-
tives of their opposition than their having shut up all the
Courts of Justice, by which they fraudulently deprive the
honest merchant of his due, who generously administered
to their wants and supplied their luxury ; and return, with
the blackest ingratitude, evil for good. Yet this is a noto-
rious truth. Sa/lust, in enumerating the reasons that in-
duced so many of the first families in Rome to join in Cata-
line's conspiracy to overturn the ancient Constitution of
their Country, very naturally accounts for this conduct when
he ascribes it to their desperate circumstances ; involved
in debt, slaves to luxury, and ruined by dissipation of every
kind, they had no resource, no prospect for redemption,
but what depended on the success of an impious civil war;
through the horrours and calamities of which they were
willing to wade, that they might avail themselves of their
Country's distress, and find means to gratify their pride and
unbounded lust ; for this end every means was attempted,
every virtue ridiculed, every friend to Government, and
every lover of his country, branded with the most igno-
minious names, and held up as traitors, whom it would be
glorious in their opinions to extirpate.

15

CORRESPONDENCE, PROCEEDINGS, &c., MARCH, 1775.

16

ADDRESS TO THE INHABITANTS OF NEW-YORK

New. York, March S, J 77.5.

The most autbentick accounts have been received from
Greet Britain, that a large sum of money lias been issued
from the Treasury to the Minister of Slate, for secret ser-
in America. The publick is extremely interested in
the consequences of this dark manoeuvre, and therefore
every indication of corruption should be attended to, every
order in favour of passive obedience noticed, and the
authors of every measure tending to break the union and
harmony of the Colonies, held up to publick view, and
exposed to general indignation and contempt.

The application of publick moneys for secret services,
has ever been considered as dangerous to the rights of a
free people, especially in times of profound peace, when
there is no necessity that spies should be maintained, or
royal whores and favourites bribed. Such an attack upon
us is, of all others, the most alarming. It is like destroy-
ing us by poison — it places us in dangers from false breth-
ren, and converts those we esteemed our friends into in-
sidious enemies — it teaches them to speak peace, when
they mean destruction ; and, under the specious pretence
of supporting Government, to declare war against the Con-
stitution.

History affords instances of men in every age, who have
preferred the enjoyment of wealth, to the possession of a
good conscience, and who have committed the most infa-
mous actions to obtain the appellation of honourable, for
themselves or families.

Prudence tells us, that what has happened in other
Countries, and in other ages, may happen in our own.< It
certainly is wise, therefore, to be watchful of those whom
we have made the guardians of our happiness, and take
care that they do not turn the opportunities we have given
them of doing us good, into occasions of bringing us to ruin
and disgrace.

The world has long had reason to think that the depend-
ants on the favour of a court, are not fit objects for the con-
fidence of the people. It is difficult to serve two masters.
Men in such circumstances frequently cleave to their inte-
rest, and reject the duty they owe their constituents.

It appears to me very extraordinary, that the people of
this Colony in general, should consider a Congress as a
necessary expedient in these perilous times, that the letters
of the Committee of Correspondence appointed by the
Assembly, should speak the same language, and that some
of the members of that body should preside at the choice
of the Delegates, and yet, that sundry individuals (who
have heretofore been lights to the blind) should now take
so much pains to decry the measure and prevent its influ-
ence. The inconsistency is obvious, and, I fear, nothing
but a golden key can open the mystery.

Providence, R. I., March 4, 1775.

On Thursday last, the 2d instant, about twelve o'clock
at noon, the Town Crier gave the following notice through
the Town : — " At five o'clock, this afternoon, a quantity of
" India Tea will be burnt in the market-place. All true
" friends of their Country, lovers of Freedom, and haters of
"shackles and hand-cuffs, are hereby invited to testify
" their good disposition, by bringing in and casting into the
" fire, a needless herb, which for a long time hath been
" highly detrimental to our liberty, interest, and bealth."

About five o'clock, in the afternoon, a great number of
inhabitants assembled at the place, when there was brought
in about three hundred pounds weight of Tea, by the firm
contenders for the true interest of America. A large fire
was kindled, and the Tea cast into it. A tar barrel," Lord
North-t speech, Bivi :ngto?i's and Mills'' s and Mela's news-
papers, and divers other ingredients, were also added.
There appeared great cheerfulness in committing to de-
struction so pernicious an article ; many worthy women,
irom a conviction of the evil tendency of continuing the
habit of Tea drinking, made free-will offering? of their re-
spective stocks of the hurtful trash. On this occasion the
bells were tolled, but it is referred to the learned whether
tolling or ringing would have been most proper. Whilst
the Tea was burning, a spirited Son of Liberty went along
the streets with his brush and lampblack, and obliterated
or unpainted the word Tea on the shop signs.

SAMUEL ADAMS TO A GENTLEMAN IN VIRGINIA.

Iioston, March 2, 1775.

Sir: Your letter of the 24th of December last, to Mr.
disking and others, by Captain Tompkins, of the Schooner
Dunmore, in which were brought several valuable donations
from our friends in Virginia, to the sufferers in this Town
by the Port-Bill, was communicated to the Committee
appointed to receive such donations, and by their direction
1 am to acquaint you that they cheerfully consented at
your request, that the Schooner should be discharged at
Salem, thinking themselves under obligation to promote
her despatch, more especially as there was unexpected
delay in her loading ; and you have very generously
declined receiving demurrage. We have repeatedly had
abundant evidence of the firmness of our brethren of Vir-
ginia, in the American cause ; have reason to confide in
them that they will struggle hard for the prize now contend-
ing for.

I am desired, by the Committee, to acquaint you that
a Ship has lately sailed from this place, bound to James
River, in Virginia ; the Master's name Crowe! Hatch.
When he was building his Ship, a proposal was made to
him by some of the Committee, to employ the tradesmen
of this Town, for which he should receive a recompense
by a discount or five per cent, on their several bills ; but
he declined to accept of the proposal. This you are sen-
sible, would have been the means of his employing our suf-
ferers at their usual rates, and at the same lime, as cheap
to him as if he had got his Vessel built by more ordinary
workmen, from the country. There is also another cir-
cumstance which I must relate to you. Captain Hatch
proposed that the Committee should employ our Smiths in
making Anchors for his Vessel, at a price by which they
could get nothing but their labour for their pains, because
he could purchase cast Anchors, imported here for the same
price, which was refused. At this he was very angry, and
(perhaps in gust of passion) declared, in the hearing of
several persons of credit, that he was used ill ; threatening
that "he would stop all the donations he could, and that
no more should come from the place where he was going
to," meaning Virginia. These facts the Committee thought
necessary to communicate to you, and to beg the favour of
you to use your influence, that Captain Hatch may not
have it in his power (if he should be disposed) to traduce
the Committee, and injure the sufferers in this Town, for
whose relief our friends in Virginia have so generously
contributed.

I am, in the name of the Committee, sir, your obliged
friend, and humble servant, Samuel Adams.

Boston, Massachusetts, March 2, 1775.

His Excellency General Gage, in his answer to the
Address of the Provincial Congress, in October last, was
pleased to represent, as an instance of his lenity and for-
bearance, " that, notwithstanding the enmity shown the
King's Troops, by withholding from them almost every
necessary for their preservation, they have not yet disco-
vered the resentment which might justly be expected to
arise from such hostile treatment."

A second Provincial Congress has lately resolved,
"That no person or persons ought to sell or dispose of
any Straw which he or they may have on hand, except to
the inhabitants of this Province, for their own private use,
or the use of said Province."

Such a militation of sentiments between the Comman-
der-in-chief and the Representatives of the people, must
surely arise, from the different conceptions they have re-
spectively formed of the end and design of the Troops being
sent here : the General, that they were ordered here to
strengthen the hands of Government, to preserve order,
restore peace, and prevent confusion ; that they are, there-
fore, to be considered as friends, and ought to be treated
accordingly : the Congress, that they are sent to dragoon
the good people of this Colony, and successively those of
every other Colony upon the Continent, into a slavish sub-
mission to British Legislation ; which, if it could be effected,
must end in their ruin and destruction ; that they are, there-
fore, to be considered as inveterate enemies ; and that the
pursuit of every measure, whereby to defeat their purposes,
is strictly justifiable.

17

CORRESPONDENCE, PROCEEDINGS, kc, MARCH, 1775.

18

Straw is doubtless as necessary to make a Soldier's Tent
comfortable, as a Mattress is to make an Officer's Tent so ;
and botb would be alike withheld if they were equally in
our power. From the Soldier, because he waits only for
the word of command to cut our throats, and spread deso-
lation as far and wide as his balls and bayonet, and the
strength of his arm will enable him to extend it. From
the Officer, because being better bred, his mind ought to be
impressed with a due sense of the natural and civil rights
of mankind ; yet, nevertheless, can so steel his heart to the
dictates of his conscience and the feelings of humanity, as
wantonly to imbrue his hands in the blood of his innocent
fellow-subjects, in obedience to the mandate of a petty
Ministerial tyrant ! — For I shall never be persuaded to
believe, that the best of Kings, my most Gracious Sover-
eign, who, so early in life, is able to count a Royal dozen,
can be so lost to the tender feeling of a parent, as coming
to the knowledge of the truth, the whole truth, and nothing
but the truth, that he would not, with the highest indigna-
tion, spurn from his presence into everlasting banishment,
the wretch who would dare to suggest, under any pretence
whatever, the horrid thoughts of shedding the blood of his
innocent American subjects; who, notwithstanding all they
have suffered from delegated power, are still earnestly de-
sirous to be esteemed his children ; and could the malevo-
lent tongue of slander and defamation be silenced, would
soon become the objects of his Royal patronage : for they
never have forfeited it, unless a forfeiture can be incurred
by refusing to become subject to their fellow-subjects in
power ; or to any other laws but those to which they or
their Representatives have given their consent ; and their
firm attachment to that Constitution of Government under
which they, or their forefathers, have lived peaceably and
happily for more than a century past. 1 repeat it, there-
fore, if blood is to be shed, it will be at the mandate of a
petty Ministerial tyrant !

The officer who stoops to execute the hangman's office,
rather than lose his commission, must and will be viewed
in a most infamous light ; whilst the soldier is beheld with
an eye of pity and compassion, because the consequence
of his disobedience is death without mercy. Neither straw,
therefore, nor any other convenience that can render a
soldier's life comfortable, is withheld from him upon any
other principle than that of self-preservation.

If the General requires proof of the certainty of what is
here advanced, let him give a regular discharge to all the
soldiers under his command, and at the hazard of my head,
I will give him incontestable security, that not one of them
who is bred to labour, and is willing to work for an honest
livelihood, but his industry shall immediately be so con-
ducted, as to gain him from eighteen pence to three shil-
lings sterling, for every faithful day's work he shall perform.
For those of them that are honest, industrious manufac-
turers, convenient room and rough materials shall be pro-
vided for them to manufacture ; and for those who are bred
to husbandry, and the cultivation of lands, they shall be-
come freeholders — sufficient land shall be allotted to them —
they shall be assisted to build their houses, and supplied
with necessaries to begin their new Plantations. For all
these, and more than these benefits, they shall have secu-
rity, not from one Province only, but the whole Continent.

Although, therefore, their profession is war and blood-
shed, must they not shudder at the horrid thought of butch-
ering the lives, and destroying the substance of those who
never willingly injured them; but, on the contrary, would
rejoice to see their circumstances as comfortable and happy
as the friendly offices of their fellow-subjects, and their
own industry and economy can make them. For we have
land enough, and, therefore, room enough for a million of
them.*

I^et not then the community be charged with " shewing
enmity to the King's Troops." Let not their " treatment"
of them be stigmatized as "hostile." It arises from the
" power of necessity, a solicitor that will not be denied ;
and, therefore, ought not to be resented.

It is difficult to conceive how the General, when he

* Cannot the. wisdom of the Continont dariee motives sufficient to

i it.: tin: friendship of the Officers to tiie dictates of humanity, and

convin lat they ought, for their own sukes, to become tin:

i destroyers of Civil and ttoligic ty; since

the welfare and prosperity of everv well regulited society can rest
>re'y upon no other foundation.

Fourth Series. — Vol. ii. i

talked of resenting the hostile treatment of the King's
Troops since their arrival here, could avoid reflecting that
the complaints might, and ought to be retorted an hundred
fold.

Have not the inhabitants of this Continent, for years
past, been every day defrauded (under colour of laws call-
ed British Statutes) of money, which has been shamefully
lavished upon some of the most worthless characters ?
And does it not amount almost to a demonstration, that
the baneful measure was adopted, not to lessen the national
debt, as has been pretended, but with a premeditated de-
sign to plunder one part of the community, to bribe the
other, and, by spreading general corruption, to establish
universal slavery ?

Have not the streets of our Capital been stained with
the blood of its innocent inhabitants unnecessarily, and
therefore wantonly shed by merciless military murderers ?
Are not out liberties abridged and our Constitution subvert-
ed to gratify the avarice and ambition of a few infamously
distinguished parricides, who are willing, and by their con-
duct seem desirous to see their native country ruined, pro-
vided they may be permitted to riot in the spoils of it ?

Does the English language afford words expressive of
one half the hostile treatment — the cruel and unparalleled
injuries, this Colony has suffered within these few years
past, from the Parent State ?

Is not our capital invaded by sea and land ? — Are not
the lives and property of its inhabitants at the mercy of
Military and Naval Commanders ? — Are not thousands of
innocent persons deprived of the means of subsistence, by
the annihilation of our Commerce ? Must not many of
them have inevitably perished with hunger, cold, and fa-
mine, had not their charitable brethren, throughout the
Continent, come in aid of them ?

Have we not been repeatedly threatened with an army
of Canadian and Indian Savages to come, as soon as the
season will permit, and invade our frontier settlements, to
massacre the innocent inhabitants, and carry their children
into captivity. Upon the arrival of every Vessel from
Europe, are we not alarmed with the news of more Ships-
of-war, and Transports with more Troops that are to be
here in the Spring ; when an open rupture is generally
expected ?

Has not an unmitred, unprincipled, would-be Bishop of
New-York, in a pamphlet, under the specious title of" A
Friendly Address," but with all the rancour and malice of
an infernal fiend, threatened to let loose the dogs of war,
like so many hell-hounds, to devour us ? But let him
beware lest the fate of Actaon should be verified in his
own person.

Britons and Americans: Suffer me, for a moment, to
arrest your attention ; are not the facts above recited, not
only true, but attended with innumerable circumstances of
airoravation ? Is not the provocation arising from them in
a ratio of a million to one, compared with the provocation
arising from the pretended hostile treatment of the King's
Troops.

TO THE INHABITANTS OF THE MASSACHUSETTS BAY.
NO. V.

Boston, March 2,. 1775.

My Friends and Countrymen :

The question which we have been considering is, whe-
ther we are not so far independent of the British Empire,
as to have the exclusive right of legislation inherently and
irrefragably in ourselves, except in the instance of regula-
ting Trade. It would give me pain to dwell so long upon
a subject so generally understood in its nature, importance,
and consequences, were it not to show to what cob-web
reasonings the present scheme of Colony administration
has driven its votaries ; what latitudinarians they have be-
come, in order to execute that which, in better times, the
proudest Minister that Britain ever saw would have been
too undaring to have projected.

The right is so clear as to almost elude the force of
argumentation — so obvious, as in spite of opposing efforts,
to command conviction, and to rank high towards the scale
of intuitions — so stale, as to be determined from the first
commencement of that relation of things out of which it
grew — so indisputable, as to be presumed, and practised

19

CORRESPONDENCE, PROCEEDINGS, fee, MARCH, 1775.

20

upon for about a century and a half, excepting in a very
few instances of singular obliquity, by kings. Lords, and
Commons, bv Governours, Counsellors, and Representa-
tives— Parliaments, and Assemblies — Briton* and Ameri-
cans.—So confirmed as to have in its favour a whole torrent
of histories, records, motives, principles, and proceedings,
and, wha is more, common sense and fixed habits, so im-
portantly sacred, that no bold venal Parliament— no daring
mercenary intriguing Minister, excepting as above, have
ever ventured directly to encounter it. Ambition, avarice,
venality, corruption, faction, and tyranny have all covered
it. — Policy, law, ingenuity, and equity have found it un-
wieldy, and joined in ample subscriptions to its truth and
justice.— How clear, how plain, must a right be, attended
with such circumstances ?— How cogent, how convincing
the reasons which produced them ? — It has passed through,
almost unsuspected and unobscured, the storms of tyranny
and the fogs of faction, from James the First to a recent
date — to the fertile exertions of some modern geniuses,
who, by an archangel acuteness, have attempted to reverse
the tables of eternal truth, to confound the established
course of nature, and, by the awful splendour of an omni-
potent Court, to extinguish the candle of human intelli-
gence. Oh unheard of lust of power ! Quid non mortalia
pectora cogis auri sacra fames 1

We have considered the principles, and weighed the
motives that possessed the breasts of our British ancestors,
and induced to their emigration hence. We have followed
them down through their material walks, until their recep-
tion of Letters Patent, forming them into a particular cor-
porate body. We have examined the evidence on the
face of those Letters, in favour of a Parliamentary inde-
pendence. It remains that we inquire whether the same
sentiment prevailed under the enjoyment of those Letters
Patent, or Charters, that preceded, and was concomitant
with their reception.

King Charles the First w as the ever memorable Prince
from whom we received our first Charter. Soon after the
restoration of his very pitiful son, Charles the Second, the
history of the Massachusetts-Bay informs us — That the
conduct of our Government respecting its rights, in an in-
stance then under consideration, as well as in the then some
former instances, might be well accounted for, upon the
sentiments of some persons of influence then amongst
them. The sentiments which this historian says our As-
semblies then adopted, and were governed by in a number
of instances, were the following, viz : That birth is no
necessary cause of subjection ; — that the subjects of any
Prince or State had a natural right to remove to any other
quarter of the world, and that upon their removal, their
subjection determined and ceased ; — that the Country to
which they themselves had removed, was claimed and pos-
sessed by independent Princes, whose right to the sover-
eignty and lordship thereof had been acknowledged by
the Kings of England ; that they therefore had actually
purchased, for valuable consideration, not only the soil,
but the dominion, the lordship and sovereignty, of those
Princes ; and that they had also received a Charter of
incorporation from the King, containing a mutual compact,
from whence arose a new kind of subjection, to which
they were held, and from which they would never depart ;
that this was what was called a voluntary civil subjection,
arising merely from compact; and from thence it followed
that whatsoever could be brought into question relative to
their subjection, must be determined by their Charter.
And that they were to be governed by Laws made by them-
selves, and by Officers elected by themselves, &.c. These
were the practical political principles of our Government
in an instance of publick conduct, about five and thirty
years after the granting of our first Charter, when the Pa-
tentees themselves were mostly upon the stage, and must
be supposed to understand its tenour and meaning. There
were instances of an earlier date, says the same historian,
where these principles were practised upon by Govern-
ment. A very ample testimony of the sense of our an-
cestors: and which shows that the present system of popu-
lar politicks is not the creature of a modern patriot brain,
that it was embraced from the beginning, and is as old as
the Constitution— that it grew up with it, and has been its
constant companion.

In the same arbitrary reign, several Acts of Trade and

Navigation respecting the Colonies passed the British
Parliament, and the above historian informs us, that our
Assembly had a difficulty in conforming to them, the rea-
son for which, assigned in a Letter to their Agents then in
England, was, that " they apprehend them to be an invasion
of the rights, liberties, and properties of the subjects of his
Majesty in the Colony, they not being represented in Par-
liament, and according to the usual sayings of the learned
in the Law, the Laws of England were bounded within
the four Seas, and did not reach America." And in fact,
as they were not then in a capacity to dispute the point,
and vindicate their injured rights by opposing their opera-
tion, they made provision by a Law of their own, that they
should be observed, and operate by force derived from
their own acts, which would have been absurd had they
admitted the supreme authority of Parliament.

Edward Bandolph, who was a busy instrument in the
hands of Government, and deeply interested in Colony
affairs, in 1676, represents to the Lords of His Majesty's
Most Honourable Privy Council, appointed a Committee
for Trade and Plantations — " That no Law is in force or
esteem here, but such as are made by the General Court,
and therefore it is accounted a breach of their privileges,
and a betraying of the liberties of their Commonwealth,
to urge the observations of the Laws of England.''

And further, that " there was no notice taken of the Act
of Navigation, Plantation, or any other Laws made in Eng-
land for the regulation of Trade ;" that — " the Govern-
ment would make the world believe they are a free State,
and do act in all matters accordingly ; that the Magistrates
ever reserve to themselves a power to alter any Law not
agreeing with the absolute authority of their Government,
acknowledging no superiour;" and that "the Governour
had declared to him, that the Laws of Parliament obligeth
them in nothing but what consists with the interests of the
Colony, and that the Legislative power and authority is
and abides with the Colony solely." This same Bandolph,
in a Letter to the Bishop of London, wherein he urges
for a quo warranto against their Charter, says, that " inde-
pendence in Government is claimed and daily practised.''
Vide The •publication of Papers by the late Governour
Hutchinson. We have adduced a continued series of facts
from an indisputable authority in this case, which proves
beyond a doubt the sense that one of the parties had of
our first Charter, almost from its first commencement to its
final dissolution. Instances might be multiplied, but they
are unnecessary to those who have not their minds steeled
against the impressions of truth. — There are some, like
the adder, whose deaf ear the thunder from Sinai would
not penetrate — these must abide the consequences of their
obstinacy, and grope in the dark at noon-day, until their
feet stumble on the black mountains, clanking with chains
and with fetters.

The Agents who were unsuccessfully employed by this
Province to solicit at the Court of King William the re-
storation of our first Charter, and who, it must be presumed,
well understood the second, being present and consulted
upon framing of it upon its tenor and operation, gave as a
reason for their acceptance : — "Our General Courts having,
with the King's approbation, as much power in New-Eng-
land as the King and Parliament have in England; they
have all English privileges, and can be touched by no law,
and by no tax, but of their own making." — Vide History
of New-England.

Upon the arrival of our present Charter, in 169-2, as
appears by the History of this Government, " The first
Act of our Assembly was a sort of Magna Charts, assert-
ing and setting forth as a general privilege, ' That no aid,
tax, tallage, assessment, custom, loan, benevolence, or
imposition whatever, shall be laid, imposed, or levied on
any of their Majesties' subjects, or their estates, on any
pretence whatever, but by the Act and consent of the Go-
vernor, Council, and Representatives of the people assem-
bled in General Court.' " The above are a few, out of
the many instances that might be adduced, where the sense
of our ancestors, in a continued and uniform succession of
events, is clear, full, and to the point. Could these, and
similar instances, have escaped the extensive reading of
the fair, of the impartial, and modest Massachiisettensis 1
Especially as they are related by his favourite author, " his
setting Sun ':" Could he have read them, and yet, con-

21

CORRESPONDENCE, PROCEEDINGS, fee, MARCH, 1775.

22

sistent with that tremendous regard to truth and rigid im-
partiality which he every where superabundantly professes,
with serious solemnity declare, that " the denial of our being
subject to the authority of the British Parliament is new.
And that it is beyond a doubt, that it was the sense, both of
the Parent State and our ancestors, that they were to remain
subject to Parliament ?" — And, "that if a person had, some
fifteen years ago, undertaken to prove that the Colonies
were annexed to the Realm, were a part of the British
Empire or Dominion, and, as such, subject to the authority
of the British Parliament, he would have acted as ridicu-
lous a part as to have undertaken to prove a self-evident
proposition. — And had any person denied it, he would have
been called a fool, or madman." Pause, my friends.

You may learn from this instance, the great facility of
bare assertions without proof, as well as the persuasive air
and graceful talent at making them — if misrepresentations
can be graceful.

If the apprehension of the King, who was the other
party to our Charter, and the sense of the Nation, at the
time it was granted, coincided with the sentiments of our
predecessors, it must exclude all doubt respecting our sub-
jection ; every quibbling mouth must be stopped from the
irresistible conviction of the heart — and every honest man
become an advocate for our exemption from the supreme
authority of the British Parliament. To this, my coun-
trvmen, permit me to ask your close and candid attention.

The Colonies in general are in the same predicament.
The independence of one will prove the independence of
all.* It may not be altogether impertinent to take a gene-
ral survey of the doctrines and principles that formed the
temper of the times in the reign of Charles the First. The
ideas of British Government were founded upon the feu-
dal system of policy, introduced by our Saxon auxiliaries,
who, after subduing the Kingdom, divided the land among
individuals in proportion to their rank and degree ; and
every man who by this division became a Freeholder, was
then a Member of their Witten Gemote, or Parliament.
This feudal polity was universally received, improved, and
established in England, by the arbitrary will of the Norman
Conqueror and his powerful Barons. In consequence of
which it became a fundamental maxim and necessary prin-
ciple in the English Constitution, " that the King' was the
universal Lord and original proprietor of all the lands in
his Kingdom ; and that no man doth, or can possess any
part of it, but what was mediately or immediately derived
as a gift from him, to be held upon feudal services." This
scheme of policy, as it respected the King's prerogatives, con-
tinued down until the Statutes of the 12th Charles II., Cap.
24, by which all its branches were lopped off at one blow,
and in the reign of ll'illiam the Third, of glorious memo-
ry, by the Revolution principles, was torn up root and
trunk, and the whole tables of power and property re-
versed. The policy and principles of their Witten Gemote,
or Parliament, which contained the life and soul of the
English Constitution, survived unimpaired this general
wreck of preposterous prerogatives. The Nation viewed
the power of Parliament as only extending to those assem-
bled therein personally or by Representatives, and assent-
ing to Laws so made. They must have considered, to be
consistent with themselves, an extension of the authority
of this Assembly to those who have no voice, connection,
or influence therein, as unnatural, unjust, and repugnant to
the first principles and policy of their Constitution. Charles
the First, taught by the examples of his predecessors, and
confirmed in his errour by his Court sycophants, attempted
to govern the Nation by the terrors of Royalty, and the
absurd doctrine of a Divine, indefeasible right. In the
reign of his father, James the First, the Judges of England
determined that the King had a right to levy taxes, called
tonnage and poundage, without the consent of Parliament.
Charles, like an absolute monarch, governed the Nation
eleven years without his Commons. For a long time he
had exacted tonnage, poundage, ship-money impositions,
with other arbitrary taxes, and exercised the right of selling
monopolies, requiring benevolences, loans, &tc, against the

* By iml p indi oc - is not meant anything inconsistent with the strict.

ion to our gracious Sovereign, who gloriaa in

b ling born a Briton — thi gem in whose crown is to rule in the

over Freemen; or inconsistent with that authority of

Parliament neceasary for the regulation of Trade, the rectitude and

- of which we cheerfully acknowledge.

repeated remonstrances of the Nation. The claiming of
these rights, and contending for these prerogatives, was
what finally cost him his Crown, and that head which was
unworthy to wear it. Ship-money was the tax unauthor-
ized by Parliament, in which the famous Hampden stood
forth as a champion for the people. The cause was argued
in the Court of Exchequer, before all the Judges of Eng-
land. Hampden was cast — the Nation roused — and the
struggle for Liberty soon began.

Can any one suppose, without doing violence to common
sense, that a King, contending for such a plenitude of
power, in which he was supported by the examples of his
predecessors, and the solemn adjudication of his Judges ;
possessing such principles, of which he was so tenacious as
to seal them with his own blood and the blood of his
favourites, meant to imply, in a Charter given to our ances-
tors, where he grants and yields to them and their suc-
cessors, that they and every one of them shall be free and
quit from all taxes, subsidies, and customs in New-England,
for the space of seven years, and from all taxes and im-
positions for the space of twenty-one years, upon all Goods
and Merchandise, at any time or times hereafter, either
upon importation thither, or exportation from thence, &tc. — -
I say meant to imply that after the expiration of those terms,
they should be liable to impositions and taxes from Parlia-
ment, and not from himself, (as he considered in some
cases his subjects in England,) independent of Parliament,
or rather, that during these terms he would not himself re-
quire us to grant him any subsidies, aids, &.c. Can any
person imagine this ? Was Massachusettensis serious when
he said it? Thus we have an argument, a priori, the
granting of our first Charter, of the sense of the grantor,
as we had with respect to our ancestors.

I am not yet done with this clause, which, we are told
with an air of merriment, is rather an unfavourable circum-
stance for those who call the three-penny duty on Tea
unconstitutional. If the King has considered this Colony
as a pari of the British Empire, and subject to the author-
ity of Parliament, would he, could he by his own authority,
have exempted it from taxes for seven or twenty years ?
If he could grant to one part of the British Empire to be
free and quit from taxes, for the same reason he might to
any and every part, and so lay the whole expense of Go-
vernment upon a few individuals. If he could do this for
seven or twenty years, for the same reason he might for
seventy or seventy times seventy. This proves to demon-
stration, either that Charles the First apprehended, how-
ever the fact might be, that this Colony was not a part of
the British Empire, or if it was, that it was not within the
jurisdiction of Parliament. He undoubtedly viewed us as
holding our lands of him as Lord paramount, according to
the fictitious doctrine of the feudal system, and the Parlia-
ment strangers to the transaction.

If it should be said, although this clause does not im-
ply the right in Parliament, yet it proves a right in the
King to tax us, and we had as good be under the arbitrary
power of the former, as subject to the will or caprice of the
latter ; we answer, that the present question is not what is
best, but what is in reality the fact — not concerning the
power of the King, but the right of Parliament. How-
ever, it is infinitely better to have but one tyrant than a
million. We should have no objection to the King's tax-
ing us by our own Assemblies. But these matters we will
consider when we come to them ; at present they are
nothing to the purpose.

" In 1621, when the Commons proposed a bill to James
the First, for the free liberty of fishing and fishing voyages,
to he made and performed on the sea-coasts and places of
Newfoundland, Virginia, and New-England, and other
Countries, and parts of America" the Secretary of State
was sent by His Majesty with the following declaration to
the House of Commons, viz: "America is not annexed
to the Realm, nor within the jurisdiction of Parliament ;
you have, therefore, no right to interfere :" and for this rea-
son the bill was crushed. In like manner, when a bill re-
specting America was offered by the two Houses of Par-
liament to King Charles the First, (the very Prince who
granted our Charter,) for his Royal assent, he refused it,
living as a reason, " that the Colonies were without the
Realm and jurisdiction of Parliament." This needs no
comment.

28

CORRESPONDENCE, PROCEEDINGS, fee, MARCH, 1775.

24

This same King, in a Commission to the Right Reve-
rend Father in God, the Archbishop of Canterbury, with a

number of others, forming them into a Committee for He-
rniating of Plantations, after premising that divers of his
subjects, with their exceeding industry and charge, had de-
duced great numbers of English subjects into several Colo-
nies, in several places of the world, either altogether desert
and unpeopled, or enjoyed by savage and barbarous Na-
tions, gives of his mere grace to the said Commissioned,
the following powers of protection and Government, over
all English Colonies already planted, or that may in future
be plained, viz : Power to make Laws, Ordinances, and Con-
stitutions concerning the publick shite of the said Colo-
nies or individuals.— Power for ordering and directing them
in their demeanour towards foreign Princes and their sub-
jects, towards ourselves and our subjects, within any foreign
parts, beyond seas, during their voyages upon the seas, or
to and from the same. — Power to inflict punishment on
all offenders, violators of Constitutions and Ordinances, by
imprisonment, restraint, or by loss of life or member. — To
remove all Governours and Presidents from their places,
and to appoint others in their stead ; to punish them by a
deprivation of their Provinces, or pecuniary mulcts. — Power
to ordain and constitute Judges, Magistrates, Tribunals,
Courts of justice, forms of judicature, and manner of pro-
cess, in all cases, civil or criminal. — Power to alter, revoke,
and repeal, all the laws and ordinances, although they may
have had our Royal assent ; to make new ones, and to new
and growing evils and perils, to apply new remedies, in such
manner and so often as unto you shall appear necessary and
expedient. — And power to hear and determine all complaints
against the whole bodies of the Colonies themselves, or
any Governour, and to demand delinquent Governours to
England, or into any other part, according to your discre-
tion, and also to revoke Charters, if not duly obtained, or
if hurtful to our Crown and Royal prerogatives ; and to do
all other things which shall be necessary for the wholesome
government and protection of the said Colonies, and our
people therein abiding," Sic. &,c. &.c.

This was the very Prince who granted our Charter. If
the British Parliament bad been a Court, in the apprehen-
sion of this King, which had cognizance of those matters,
would he have erected another, with all the powers that
Parliament possess over any part of the British Empire
for these regulations ? Or, if in apprehension of the British
Parliament themselves, would they have acquiesced in, and
submitted to the exercise of such powers ? Could the
most absolute King that ever swayed the British Sceptre,
have exercised such powers over any part of the Empire
that was within the jurisdiction of Parliament ? Has the
Grand Monarch more authority ? Does not this prove
beyond a contradiction, that Charles the First viewed the
Colonies as independent of the Empire, and exempt from
the authority of Parliament, even in the matter of regula-
ting Trade ? Lay your hand upon your breast, and let con-
science answer.

In the reign of Charles the Second, several Acts passed
abridging Trade with foreign Countries, and imposing duties
upon several branches of Commerce between the Colonies,
for the express purpose of regulating Trade, as the preamble
of the Acts themselves demonstrate, and not to raise a Re-
venue to the Crown by the authority of Parliament. Vir-
ginia considered even these as grievances, and sent Agents
to England to remonstrate against taxes and impositions
being laid upon the Colony by the authority of Parliament.

This produced a declaration from the King, under the
Privy Seal, asserting that " Taxes ought not to be laid upon
the inhabitants and proprietors of the Colony but by the
common consent of the General Assembly of the Colony."
Accordingly, this Monarch, when a permanent Revenue for
the support of Civil Government in Virginia was deemed
necessary, did not attempt it by Parliamentary authority,
but applied to their General Assembly ; and an Act passed
under the Great Seal, in which it was enacted, "by the
King's most Excellent Majesty," by and with the consent
of the Colony of Virginia, tic. This Act granted a duty
on Tobacco, for the support of Civil Government, which
is still paid by virtue of it. Had this Colony been a part
of the British Empire, in the apprehension of the King,
he could not have become a pan of their Legislative
authority, in making a law to tax the people there!' This

would involve the political solecism, with a witness, of t'm-
ptrium in imperio; the King, Lords, and Commons form-
ing the only Legislative power over the British Empire.
The Parliament passing this affair over suit tilentio, shows
sufficiently their apprehension of the matter. In these
instances, the sense of Charles the First, of his immediate
predecessor, and successor; three successive King?, privy
in the order of events to our emigration, incorporation, and
legislation under that incorporation, is as clear, and as full
as words or actions could make them.

It is obvious to observe here, that a compact, or an agree-
ment between parties, is only the mutual assent or consent
of their minds, touching something which is the subject
matter of their contract. The writing upon parchment or
paper, is only the evidence of this assent. The agreement
is, in the language of the learned, aggrcgatio mentium in
realiqua facta vel facienda.

Make, my friends, a recollective pause. Permit me to
ask you the following simple questions: Does not the King
of England hold his Crown by compact? Is not the rela-
tion that is subsisting between him and his subjects in
Great Britain, founded upon compact? Is not the rela-
tion that is subsisting between us and Great Britain, found-
ed upon compact? Was not our Charter the evidence
of this compact ? Was it not the sense of King Charles
the First, and of our ancestors, the parties to this Charter,
that this Colony was not a part of the Empire, and should
not be subject to the authority of Parliament? Is not this
sense of the parties, the very essence and vitals of the
compact? Were we not, then, upon the reception of our
Charter, independent of the Supreme power of the Parent
State? And are we not so now, of course, unless some
subsequent transaction has united us? If you cannot an-
swer all these questions clearly in the affirmative, I have
only this favour to ask, which you cannot reasonably deny
me, that you carefully review our past reasonings upon
those subjects, with minds open to conviction; reconsider
adduced facts fairly to their nature, tendency, and circum-
stances ; and deliberately revolving the whole process in
your own breast, judging for yourselves, yield your assent
wherever the evidence preponderates.

You will excuse me, my fellow-countrymen, for having
carried you into this dry detail of historical matters — mat-
ters that are well known — that have been often repeated.
My design was to stir up your pure minds, by way of
remembrance, when you are told, with an air of seriousness
bordering upon devotion, that the Colonies have always
been considered by the British Nation, and by the Colonists
themselves, until within these few years, as within the juris-
diction of Parliament ; a representation as remote from
truth, as was ever propagated by the tongue of man, or the
pen of prostitution ; at a time when Royal Charters, Na-
tional Faith, and the eternal principle of justice, on which
they are founded, are puffed away by a British Senate, as
motes and straws floating in the air ; and the civil and na-
tural rights of as loyal a people as ever breathed God's air,
or trod his earth, all prostrate at the feet of a Minister of
State, are by his • ••»•»*»*****, wantonly trampled
under foot.

It is unnecessary to say any thing to rouse the Americans.
That man must be dead — past reanimating, who is not
wide awake. He would discharge a kinder office, was there
not danger of our dozing too long, who would administer
political opiates, to render us, if possible, insensible of the
cruel, barbarous, distressing, horrid oppressions we suffer,
and unfeeling to the studied indignities that are offered us ;
that would enable us to suppress the emotions and ebulli-
tions of an English heart ; and by our spirit and firmness,
moderation and forbearance, form a paradox which none
but Americans can solve ; keeping our swords in their scab-
hards, unless urgent necessity, or self-preservation should
call them forth, and sheath them elsewhere.

From the County of Hampshire.

EXTRACT OF A LETTER TO A GENTLEMAN IN NEW-YORK,
DATED LONDON, MARCH 2, 1775.

The friends of America, on the arrival of the Packet,
were much alarmed at a report, that New-York was dis-
affected to the common cause, and determined to break the
res of the Congress, especially that of nou-iuiporta-

25

CORRESPONDENCE, PROCEEDINGS, Sic, MARCH, 1775.

26

tion ; however, we had the pleasure, from the hest accounts,
to find it otherwise, and that we had little reason to fear
the late Resolutions of your Assembly would produce any
change in your proceedings. 1 have now to inform you
that, notwithstanding aj] we could do, the Fishery Bill was
yesterday read the third time, and passed the House of
Commons, whereby a stop is to be put to all the Fisheries
On the first of July, except the Whale Fishery, which is
to be continued to the first of November. Every impartial
man must, in his heart, condemn a Bill so replete with in-
humanity and cruelty ; and it will be an everlasting stain
on the annals of our pious Sovereign, who, from the best
accounts, is the grand promoter of these proceedings. We
hope the firmness of your countrymen will evince to all
the world your just sense of measures so unjust ; and will,
in due season, retort them with vengeance, on the guilty
heads of the enemies of the British Empire.

EXTRACT OP A LETTER FROM LONDON TO A GENTLEMAN
IN PHILADELPHIA, DATED MARCH 3, 1775.

Lest you should not have a true idea of Lord North's
design in his motion, I send you the enclosed paper,*
which gives a pretty just account of what he said on the
occasion, and shows plainly it was planned to divide the
Colonies, as well as the friends of Liberty here ; in both of
which I hope he will be deceived. The Bill against the
four Neiv-England Governments, of which you have had
a copy, will finally pass the House of Commons this day,
and is to take place the first day of July next. You may
rely upon it, that in a few clays another Bill will be brought
into the House of Commons, to prohibit the other Colonies
from any commercial intercourse with each other, and to
confine their Trade in every individual article to Great
Britain. Ireland, and the British West Indies only. My
hest information tells me, that General Gage is still to con-
tinue in Massachusetts-Bay ; some of the Troops going
from hence and Ireland are for Boston, the others for New-
York, where they have, it is said, been requested to be
sent, by Delancy and his band of traitors — Cooper, White,
Cotden, and Watts — to aid them in securing New-York
for the Ministry. This, it seems, they have undertaken
to do, with Military assistance.

New-York is to be a place of Arms, and Provisions are
to be provided there lor support of the Army in Neiv-
England ; at the same time they hope, by having posses-
sion of New- York, to prevent any assistance from Virgi-
nia, Maryland, Pennsylvania, and the other Southern
Colonies, going to New-England, of which they are very
apprehensive. I hope there is virtue enough in the peo-
ple of New- York to defeat this scheme, and that they will
banish from their society the heads, at least, of the traitors,
before the Troops get there to back them, which cannot
be sooner than the last of May.

1 do not see occasion to advise what is best to be done
in the present situation of things, because if you mean to
continue Freemen, resistance, even to the last extremity,
must be made, and, if with united efforts, it will, in my
opinion, assuredly be successful. If you are willing to be
Slaves, you are only to submit at once, and wear your chains
quietly.

I do not entertain the least doubt of your persevering in
so noble a contest, and with proper application the Colony
of New-York will, I think, join you heartily.

have the effect to prevent the Sons of Liberty, as they are
called, from committing themselves in any act of violence.

I find, by a letter from Mr. Cooper to Mr. Pownall, that
the Lords of the Treasury have had under their considera-
tion, the proposition which you transmitted some years ago,
in the shape of a Bill for better collecting His Majesty's Quit
Rents. They seem, however, to be of opinion, that the
provisions of an Act of the Province of North- Carolina for
the same purpose, which they have had before them, are
better calculated to answer the object in view than the Bill
you recommended ; and principally, because it enacts, that
no Patent, Deed, or Conveyance of Land shall be held va-
lid, unless enrolled in the manner the Act directs; whereas,
in your Bill, the enrollment is enforced merely by penalty.
1 therefore think fit to send you a copy of the North-
Carolina Act; that, by comparing the two together, you
may be enabled to frame and pass such a law, as shall cor-
respond with the sentiments of that Board.

1 am, sir, your most obedient humble servant,

Dartmouth.

Sir James Wright, Baronet, Georgia.

FROM THE EARL OF DARTMOUTH TO THE GOVERNOURS OF

THE SEVERAL COLONIES.

[ Private. ] Whitehall, March 3, 1?7.">.

Sir : It is fit that I should acquaint you that the Reso-
lutions of the House of Commons, which accompanies my
separate despatch, passed in the Committee by a majority
of two hundred and seventy-four to eighly-eight ; and was
received and agreed to by the House without a division.
And, indeed, the great majorities which have appeared in
both Houses, upon every question that has been proposed
for maintaining the supremacy of Parliament, is such an
evidence of the general sense of the Nation upon that sub-
ject, as must show how little ground there has been for
those assurances which have been artfully held out to the
Americans of support here, in the dangerous conduct they
have adopted ; and convince them that there neither can, nor
will be any the least relaxation from those measures which
that conduct has made indispensably necessary for redu-
cing the Colonies to the constitutional authority of Parlia-
ment. I am, sir, your most obedient humble servant,

Dartmouth.
His Honour the Lieutenant Governour of
South- Carolina.

FROM THE EARL OF DARTMOUTH TO THE GOVERNOUR OF
PENNSYLVANIA.

Whitehall, March 3, 1775.

Sir: By the mail of the last New-York Packet, I re-
ceived your despatch of the 30th January, and have laid
it before the King ; but as my Circular Letter to you of
this date, enclosing the Resolution of the House of Com-
mons on the 20th of February, contains such instructions
as have been thought fit to be given to His Majesty's Go-
vernours in the Colonies, in the present situation of affairs,
I have not any particular commands from the King to sig-
nify to you thereupon.

1 am, sir, your most obedient humble servant,

Dartmouth.

Deputy Governour Penn.

EARL OF DARTMOUTH TO THE GOVERNOUR OF GEORGIA.

Whitehall, M irch 3, 1775.

Sir: I have received your letters of the 19th and 20th
of December, the latter numbered thirty-five, and have laid
them before the King. But having nothing in command
from His Majesty thereupon, I have only to lament, that
His Majesty's subjects in Georgia, who have hitherto, in
general, shown so great respect for the Mother Country,
and loyalty to the King, should have, at length, manifested
a disposition to adopt the sentiments, and follow the ill ex-
ample, of their neighbours. But I trust that the measures
1 have taken for your support, and the zeal and alacrity of
the King's Officers, and of those gentlemen who you say
stand forth in the maintenance of the publick peace, will
Vol. I, Fo':o 1600, Note.

FROM THE EARL OF DARTMOUTH TO THE GOVERNOURS OF
THE COLONIES.

Whitehall, February 22, 1775.

Sir : Enclosed I send you, by the King's command, a
Joint Address of both Houses of Parliament to His Majes-
ty, upon a consideration of the Papers which had been
communicated to them relative to the state of the Ameri-
can Colonies, together with His Majesty's most gracious
answer to the said Address.

1 likewise send you a printed copy of a Bill brought into
the House of Commons, for Restraining the Trade and
Fisheries of the four New-England Governments for a
limited time ; together with a copy of a Resolution declara-
tory of the sense of Parliament upon the subject of Taxa-
tion, which Resolution was moved in the Committee on

27

CORRESPONDED E. PROCEEDINGS, &c, MARCH, 1775.

28

Monday last, and carried by a majority of two hundred and
seventy-four to eighty-eight.

As these two measures are as yet in the first stages only
of consideration, and as the Bill may possibly admit, in its
further progress, of some alteration, I shall only say upon
fhem, that I Batter myself that the firm determination of
Parliament to preserve the Colonies in a due dependance
upon this Kingdom, tempered with the justice and mode-
ration expressed in the last Resolution of the Committee,
will have the effect to produce such a conduct on the part
of the Colonies as shall lead to a restoration of the publick
tranquillity.

I am, sir, your most obedient humble servant,

Dartmouth.

Deputy Govemour of Pennsylvania.

FROM THE EARL OF DARTMOUTH TO THE OOVERNOURS OF

THE COLONIES.

[Separate] Whitehall, March 3, 1775.

Sir: You will have seen, in the King's Answer to the
Joint Address of both Houses of Parliament, on the 7th of
February, (which Address and Answer have been already
transmitted to you,) how much attention His Majesty was
graciously pleased to give to the assurance held out in that
Address, of the readiness of Parliament to afford every just
and reasonable indulgence to the Colonies, whenever they
should make a proper application, on the ground of any
real grievance they might have to complain of; and there-
fore I have the less occasion now to enlarge upon the satis-
faction it hath given His Majesty to see that Address fol-
lowed by the enclosed Resolution of the House of Com-
mons, which, whatever may be the effect of it, (I trust a
happy one,) will forever remain an evidence of their jus-
tice and moderation, and manifest the temper which has
accompanied their deliberations upon that question, which
lias been the source of so much disquiet to His Majesty's
subjects in America, and the pretence of acts of such crimi-
nal disorder and disobedience.

His Majesty ardently wishes to see a reconciliation of
the unhappy difference which has produced those disor-
ders, through every means by which it may be obtained,
without prejudice to the just authority of Parliament, which
His Majesty will never suffer to be violated ; approves the
Resolution of his faithful Commons, and commands me to
transmit it to you, not doubting that this happy disposition
to comply with every just and reasonable wish of the King's
subjects in America, will meet with such a return of duty
and affection on their part, as will lead to a happy issue ol
the present disputes, and to a re-establishment of the pub-
lick tranquillity, on those grounds of equity, justice, and
moderation, which the Resolution holds forth.

The King has the greater satisfaction in this Resolution,
and the greater confidence in the good effects of it, from
having seen that, amidst all the intemperance into which a
people, jealous of their liberties, have been unfortunately
misled, they have nevertheless avowed the justice, the
equity, and the propriety of subjects of the same State con-
tributing, according to their abilities and situation, to the
Publick Burdens; and I think I am warranted in saying
that this Resolution holds no proposition beyond that.

I am unwilling to suppose that any of the King's sub-
jects in the Colonies can have so far forgot the benefits
they have received from the Parent State, as not to ac-
knowledge that it is to her support, held forth at the ex-
pense of her blood and treasure, that they principally owe
that security which hath raised them to their present state
of opulence and importance. In this situation, therefore,
justice requires that they should, in return, contribute, ac-
cording to their abilities, to the common defence ; and their
own welfare and interest demand that their Civil Establish-
ment should he supported with a becoming dignity.

It has been the care, and, I am persuaded, it is the firm
determination of Parliament to see that both these ends
are answered; and their wisdom and moderation have sug-
gested the propriety of leaving to each Colony to judge of
the ways and means of making due provision for these pur-
poses, reserving to themselves a discretionary power of ap-
proving or disapproving vvhat shall he offered.

The Resolution neither points out what the Civil Estab-
lishment should be, nor demands any specific sum in aid

of the Publick Burdens. In both these respects it leaves
full scope for that justice and liberality which may be ex-
pected from Colonies that, under all their prejudices, have
never been wanting in expressions of an affectionate attach-
ment to the Mother Country, and a zealous regard for the
welfare of the British Empire; and therefore the King
trusts that the provision they will engage to make for the
support of Civil Government, will he adequate to the rank
and station of every necessary Officer, and that the sum to
be given in contribution to the common defence, will be
offered on such terms, and proposed in such a way, as to
increase or diminish, according to the Publick Burdens of
this Kingdom are from time to time augmented or reduced,
in so far as those Burdens consist of Taxes and Duties,
which are not a security for the National Debt. By such
a mode of contribution, the Colonies will have full security
that they can never be required to tax themselves, without
Parliament's taxing the subjects of this Kingdom in a far
greater proportion ; and there can be no doubt that any
proposition of this nature, made by any of the Colonies,
and accompanied with such a state of their facilities and
abilities, as may evince the equity of the proposal, will be
received with every possible indulgence, provided it be, at
the same time, unaccompanied with any declaration, and
unmixed with any claims which will make it impossible
for the King, consistent with his own dignity, or for Parlia-
ment, consistent with their constitutional rights, to receive it.
But I will not suppose that any of the Colonies will, after
this example of the temper and moderation of Parliament,
adopt such a conduct; on the contrary, I will cherish a
pleasing hope that the publick peace will be restored, and
that the Colonies, forgetting all other trivial and groundless
complaint which ill humour hath produced, will enter into
the consideration of the Resolution of the House of Com-
mons with that calmness and deliberation which the impor-
tance of it demands, and with that good will and inclination
to a reconciliation which are due to the candour and justice
with which Parliament has taken up this business, and at
once declare to the Colonies what will be ultimately ex-
pected from them.

I have already said that the King entirely approves the
Resolution of the House of Commons, and His Majesty
commands me to say, that a compliance therewith by the
General Assembly of New- York, [which has already
shewn so good a disposition towards a reconciliation with
the Mother Country,*] will be most graciously considered
by His Majesty, not only as a testimony of their reverence
for Parliament, but also as a mark of their duty and attach-
ment to their Sovereign, who has no object nearer to his
heart than the peace and prosperity of his subjects in every
part of his Dominions. At the same time His Majesty
considers himself bound by every tie to exert those means
the Constitution has placed in his hands, for preserving
that Constitution entire, and to resist with firmness every
attempt to violate the rights of Parliament, to distress and
obstruct the lawful Commerce of his subjects ; and to en-
courage in the Colonies ideas of independence, inconsistent
with their connection with this Kingdom.

I am, sir, your most obedient humble servant,

Dartmouth.

Govemour of New-York.

Copy of a Resolution of the House of Commons, -21th
February, 1775, enclosed by the Earl of Dartmouth,
in his Circular Letter to the Governours of the Colo-
nies, dated March :J, 1775.

Resolved, That when the Govemour, Council and As-
sembly, or General Court of any of His Majesty's Provin-
ces or Colonies in America, shall propose to make provi-
sion according to the condition, circumstances and situation
of such Province or Colony, lor contributing their propor-
tion to the common defence, (such proportion to be raised
under the authority of the General Court or General As-
sembly of such Province or Colony, and disposable by
Parliament,) and shall engage to make provision also for
the support of the Civil Government, and the Administra-
tion of Justice in such Province or Colony, it will be
proper, if such proposal shall be approved by His Majesty
and the two Houses of Parliament, and for so long as such

* Th;se words were omitted in the Letters to the other Colonies.

29

CORRESPONDENCE, PROCEEDINGS, &c, MARCH, 17"

30

provision shall be made accordingly, lo forbear in respect of
such Province or Colony, to levy any Duty, Tax or Assess-
ment, or to impose any further Duty, Tax or Assessment,
except only such Duties as it may be expedient to continue
to levy, or to impose for the regulation of Commerce ; the
net produce of the Duties last mentioned to be carried
to the account of such Province or Colony respectively

EARL OF DARTMOUTH TO THE GOVERNOUR OF NEW-YORK.

[Private ] Whitehall, March 3, 1775.

Sir: My separate despatch of this day's date, enclosing
a Resolution of the House of Commons, may be ostensibly
of use in case the General Assembly should think fit to
take up the consideration of that Resolution ; but it is fit I
should observe to you that it is not His Majesty's intention,
lor very obvious reasons, that you should officially commu-
nicate it to them; at the same time as I think it cannot fail
to be an object of discussion in the Assembly, I must add
that the King considers that the good effect of it will, in a
great measure, depend upon your ability and address in a
proper explanation of it to those whose situation and con-
nections may enable them to give facility to the measures
it points to. And His Majesty has no doubt that you will
exert every endeavour to induce such a compliance on the
part of the Assembly, as may correspond with His Majes-
ty's ideas of their justice, and his earnest wishes to see a
happy restoration of the publick tranquillity.

I am, sir, your most obedient humble servant,

Dartmouth.

Lientenant Governdur of New- York.

FROM THE EARL OF DARTMOUTH TO THE GOVERNOUR OF
NEW-YORK.

Whitehall, March 4, 1775.

Sir: The American Packets having been detained a
i'ew days beyond the usual time of their sailing, gives me
an opportunity of acquainting you, that your despatch of
the first of February has been received, and of assuring
you that the sentiments of duty to the King, and wishes
of a reconciliation with the Mother Country, so fully ex-
pressed in the Addresses of the Council and Assembly, in
answer to your very prudent and proper Speech to them,
have been very graciously received by His Majesty, and
have given general satisfaction to all ranks of people to
this Kingdom.

1 am, sir, your most obedient humble servant,

Dartmouth.

Lieutenant Governour Colden.

EXTRACT OF A LETTER FROM LONDON, TO A GENTLEMAN
IN NEW-YORK, DATED MARCH 4, 1775.

The news which the Packet brought us of the conduct
of the people of New- York, has filled every heart with
joy, and employed every tongue in your praise. Even
faction itself admires in sullen silence. Pursue the same
line of mild and prudent counsel and conduct, and you
will secure the liberties of your Country, and obtain im-
mortal gratitude from the posterity of even your rivals.

I am glad you anticipated Lord North's proposition, as
your honour will be so much the higher. Whatever the
enemies of both Countries may say, the Resolution which
was moved for by Lord North, is founded on the truest
policy and benevolence. While it reserves and maintains
the just and necessary sovereignty of Parliament, it invites
the Colonists to an amicable settlement of the dispute.
It draws a strong line between the seditious and honest
(the misguided) citizen, and, while it leaves the former to
be checked by the sword of justice, leads the latter to obe-
dience, by granting him all the indulgence he could ask with
safety to his own happiness. It blends that firmness and
benevolence which are always united in the counsels of a
prudent Legislature.

Such is the proposed Resolution ; which Opposition will,
without doubt, outrageously censure and traduce, because
it will destroy their sanguine hopes of success, by tending
to allay popular discontents, and renew the friendship of
Great Britain and her Colonies. They foresee, with all
the bitterness of envy, the triumph of their rivals, and

sicken at the prospect of that publick tranquillity, over the
imaginary destruction of which they smiled with malignant
joy. — In the rage of disappointment, they forgot the ne-
cessary appearance of consistency, and charge the samo
Administration with timidity and an ignorant retreat, which
they, but yesterday, censured with obstinate perseverance
and inflexible severity. The former accusation is as ground-
less as the latter. Administration pursues the equitable
and honourable line between both extremes, equally remote
from undistinguishing impetuosity and wavering irresolu-
tion. The proposition in question discovers not the faint-
est colour of a resignation of Parliamentary authority, or
sacrifice of its dignity.

The proposals of the Colonies, which it invites, are to
be made by their Assemblies. The contested question
about the right of taxation is to cease, with respect to such
Province or Colony as shall propose to make provision by
its Assembly, according to its situation and circumstances,
for contributing its proportion to the common defence, and
for the support of the Civil Government, and the Admin-
istration of Justice within itself.

By this salutary measure, therefore, the necessity and
just authority of Parliament will be preserved, and the
Americans gratified in their wish of being taxed by their
own Representatives. The Legislature will still possess
the unalienable power of commanding and emp loving the
strength of the State in the common defence ; and the
Colonies enjoy the privilege of levying taxes in such modes
as are most expedient and agreeable to themselves. While
they cheerfully contribute their proportion for the support
of their own Civil Establishment, and the general preserva-
tion and defence of the Empire, no taxes will be attempted
to be levied on them but what are imposed by their own
Representatives. When they refuse to fulfil their engage-
ments, and will not assist in bearing the common burdens,
Parliament will then only interfere, and exert that power
which must necessarily reside in the Supreme Legislature,
of obliging all the subjects of the State to co-operate for
its preservation and defence.

By this measure, therefore, Parliament will give a new
and honourable proof, that its decisions are guided by be-
nevolence and fortitude : that when it sends forth the
sword of justice to restrain and punish the factious, it
extends also the most reasonable and friendly proposals to
invite the good, though deluded citizen, to peace and re-
conciliation.

CHOWAN COUNTY (nORTH-CAROLINa) COMMITTEE.

March 4, 1775.

The Committee met at the House of Capt. James Sum-
ner, and the gentlemen appointed at a former meeting of
Directors, to promote subscriptions for the encouragement
of Manufactures, informed the Committee that the sum of
Eighty Pounds Sterling was subscribed by the inhabitants
of this County for that laudable purpose. The Committee,
taking into consideration the manner in which said sum
may be applied, so as to redound to the utility, of this
Province in general, and to this County in particular, re-
solved, that the sum of Forty Pounds Sterling be paid
by the Chairman of the Committee to any person who
shall, in eighteen months from the date hereof, first make in
this Province, or cause to be therein made, under his direc-
tion, five hundred pair of Wool Cards, such as usually
cost One Shilling and Three Pence Sterling, in Great
Britain ; and five hundred pair of good Cotton Cards, such
as usually cost Two Shillings and Six Pence Sterling in
Great Britain, which the Committee hereby oblige them-
selves to purchase and pay, ready money, for, at the rate
of Two Shillings Sterling for the Wool Cards, and Three
Shillings Sterling a pair for the Cotton Cards ; and it is
expected that the person entitled to such premiums shall
furnish them at that price. The quality and price that
such Cards usually cost in Great Britain to be submitted
to the Committee.

The Committee also offer a premium of Forty Pounds
Sterling, to be paid by the Chairman of the Committee, to
the person who shall first make for sale, in this Province, two
thousand pounds of good Steel, fit for edged tools. The
Committee are apprehensive the premiums here offered
are too inconsiderable to induce any person to attempt the

SI

CORRESPONDENCE, PROCEEDINGS, &c, MARCH, 1175.

32

above blanches of business : but they flatter themselves that
the olliri Counties in this Province, stimulated by the same
laudable motives to promote industry, one of the primary
sources of virtue and wealth, may join them, in order that
the above branches of Manufacture may be effectually
carried into execution ; in which case, it is hoped the Com-
mittees of such Counties as are desirous to contribute, will
correspond with this Committee upon the subject, that
tbe whole Premium offered may appear at once in the
papers abroad, in which it is proposed to have it published.
The Committee likewise offer a Premium of Ten Pounds,
Proclamation .Money, to be paid by their Chairman, to any
person who shall, within twelve months from this date,
first produce one hundred yards of well fulled Woollen
Cloth to the Committee, spun and wove in this County, and
fulled in any County within the District of the Superiour
Court of Edenton; and a Premium of Ten Pounds, like mo-
ney, to be paid by the Chairman, to the person who shall,
within twelve months from this date, first produce to the
Committee one hundred yards of well bleached Linen, such
as usually costs Two Shillings Sterling in Great Britain;
and the sum of Five Pounds, like money, to any person who
shall produce one hundred yards of Linen, next in quality,
not of less value than what usually costs One Shilling and
Eight Pence Sterling, in Great Britain ; and both kinds
of Linen to be manufactured in this County ; and the

Duality of them to be submitted to the judgment of the
Committee. Signed by order of the Committee,

Samuel Jones, Clerk.

Durham, New-Hampshire, March, 4, 1775.

Mr. Fowle : Whereas, some evil-minded and malicious
persons have asserted that a number of people in the Town
of Durham are about forming themselves into a Company,
in order to throw off all obedience to the Militia Officers,
and set at defiance the Laws of Government : I desire
you to publish the Articles of Inlistment in your next
paper, that the publick may judge how little foundation
there is for so scandalous a report. The Articles are as
follows :

" We, the Subscribers, no hereby agree to form our-
selves into a Company, and meet at Durham Falls, on
every Monday afternoon, for six months next coming, to
acquaint ourselves with the Military Art, and instruct each
other in the various manoeuvres and evolutions which are
necessary for Infantry in time of battle. We also agree
to appear each time well furnished with Arms and Ammu-
nition : And at our first meeting, to nominate and appoint
the several Officers, who are to preside over us for the first
month, and then proceed to appoint others for the next
month, always avoiding to re-elect any that have served,
until all the others have gone through their tour of duty,
as Officers: And at any muster or field-day, we shall
hold ourselves obliged to incorporate with the respective
Companies to which we belong, and yield all due obedi-
ence to the proper Officers of the Militia, appointed by
the Captain General ; and endeavour to instruct those who
are undisciplined in the best manner we are able."

Signed by eighty-two reputable inhabitants.

This is an exact copy of the Articles, which any person
that yet remains in doubt may be satisfied of by applying
to me and viewing the original, a sight of which may, at
any time, be had ; and was there nothing more illegal and
injurious in a late paper, signed by several persons in this
Province, I believe the signers would not take so much
pains in keeping it from the publick view. But whatever
may be the purport of that, I rejoice in laying the contents
of this before the people, that they may judge whether it
lias the least appearance of an illegal combination, or whe-
ther, on the contrary, it does not appear to be a well con-
certed plan to promote and encourage the Military Art.
1 flatter myself that even malice itself could not adjudge
this to be an unjustifiable measure, or suggest that any
part ot it looks like treason or rebellion ; and I can account
for the scandalous report concerning it, in no other way,
but by supposing that these defamers expected (according
to the custom of this day) to be rewarded for their slander
itne posts of honour or profit.

Sir, I am your very humble servant,

John Sullivan.

ON MR. SULLIVAN'S LETTER, OF MARCH d , 1 775.

Mit. Fowi.k : Iii a publication in your last paper, under
the signature of Mr. Sullivan, we have been favoured with
a copy of an Engagement entered into by a number of
people to meet at Durham Falls, once a week, for the
space of six months to come, in order to acquire Military
skill, under Officers to be appointed by themselves,
monthly.

As tins is a matter of publick concern, I shall beg per-
mission, Mr. Printer, through the channel of your paper,
to lay some animadversions before the publick upon it,
which, I think, it would be unpardonable to neglect.

In the first place, the appointment of all Military Officers,
whether for a day, a week, or a month, is the sole right of
the King, or of those deriving authority from him, and (to
treat the matter in the most moderate terms) it is a very
improper step for any body of men to assume that power
to themselves, upon any occasion or pretence whatsoever.

The Laws of the Province require the Militia to be
drawn forth, to learn the Military exercise, four times a
year, and no more. Mr. Sullivan may, probably, tell us
that this new-modeled Company does not come under this
limitation ; yet 1 presume he will not deny but that the
meeting of any part of the Militia — and these people declare
themselves to belong to it — any otherwise than the law
directs, is, at least, an evasion, if not a direct violation of
the law, both which ought to be equally avoided.

The Town of Durham, by having eighty-two of its
inhabitants employed one day in a week, (for we cannot
suppose they will mind any other business on those days,)
for six months, in Military exercises, instead of their hus-
bandry, will sustain a damage of Three Hundred and
Twenty-Seven Pounds, lawful money, computing the loss
of their labour only at half a dollar a day, for each person.
Supposing, now, that all the men in the Province, fit to
bear arms, which may be reasonably calculated at fourteen
thousand, should catch this Military ardour, as most infec-
tions are catching ; and according to the tendency of this
plan, follow the example of Durham, it would, after Dur-
ham fashion, occasion a damage of Fifty-Four Thousand
Pounds, lawful money, to the Province. A pretty tax,
truly, for a new Country! Whatever reason Mr. Sullivan
may have to rejoice in thus leading on the people to their
own damage, I am sure the Province would have abundant
reason not to rejoice in his rejoicing, but to regret their own
folly ; and it is well known that many are, at this day, in
the like predicament on account of some past transactions
amongst us. I hope, therefore, the people will judge for
themselves, and avoid incurring a damage to the Province,
which, no doubt, the Legislature had in contemplation to
prevent, by limiting the times of training the Militia to
four days in a year.

Moreover, this extraordinary spirit to acquire the use of
Arms, at a juncture when the noise of civil discord begins
to roar in our neighbourhood, marks strongly a disposition
to employ our Arms against the power and authority we
ought to support and defend ; every appearance of which
should be avoided with the utmost caution and circum-
spection.

As I wish not, Mr. Printer, to trespass too much on
your indulgence, I shall, for the present, only take notice
that, though Sullivan plainly discovers the Durham plan
to be a child of his own ; yet I still hope he will, upon re-
flection, have candour enough to acknowledge the deform-
ities of his baby, and take it in good part in me, to advise
him to abandon the system he hath for some time past
been engaged in ; a system manifestly lending to bring
calamity and distress upon the good people of this once
happy Province. Monitor.

mk. suluvan's reply to " monitor.-'

Mn. Printer: In your paper of the 17th instant, 1
observed a piece, signed by a person who calls himself
Monitor, full of ill-natured reflections upon an Agreement
entered into by a number of persons in Durham, to assem-
ble once a week, for the space of six months, to instruct
each other in the Military Art. The feeble attempts of
this scurrilous writer to display his wit in the former and
latter part of his nonsensical piece, can deserve nothing but
contempt and ridicule.

33

CORRESPONDENCE, PROCEEDINGS, he., MARCH, 1775.

34

His assertion, that a number of persons assembling for
the purpose of instructing each other in the art of War,
and appointing persons to give the words of command, in-
terferes with the Royal prerogative in the appointment of
Officers, and amounts to an evasion, if not a violation, of
the Province Laws, fully demonstrates his ignorance, both
of the Law and Constitution.

The curious calculation he makes of the loss New-Hamp-
shire must sustain if the same military ardour (which he
ignorantly calls an infection) should prevail throughout
the Province, merits the ridicule of all mankind.

1 am surprised that this curious calculator (while his
hand was in) did not inform us of the amazing loss this
Government sustains by devoting a seventh part of the
time to religious exercises ; and endeavour to convince us
that, as our clothing costs a large sum, it would be best to
go naked.

After which, I should be glad to know from him, if we
were to lay down our arms, and make the infamous sub-
mission he contends for, how much money we should be
able to earn in a day, and how much of our earnings we
should be able to keep in our pockets.

I hope the publick will excuse my not giving a more
serious and particular answer to the production of a dis-
tempered brain, as that might make him wise in his own
conceit, and induce this nonsensical scribbler to think him-
self a person of some consequence.

1 shall conclude with reminding him, " that a shoe-
maker never ought to go beyond his last."

Yours, John Sullivan.

TO THE FREEMEN OF VIRGINIA.

Committee Chamber, Norfolk, March 6, 1775.

Trusting to your sure resentment against the enemies of
your Country, we, the Committee, elected by ballot for the
Borough of Norfolk, hold up for your just indignation Mr.
John Brown, Merchant, of this place. We are fully sen-
sible of the great caution with which publick censure should
be inflicted ; and, at all times, are heartily disposed to ac-
complish the great design of the Association by the gentle
methods of reason and persuasion. But an unhappy
proneuess to unmanly equivocation, which has so much
distinguished Mr. Brown, and for which he has, in more
than one instance, been censured by the voice of the peo-
ple, added to the present manifest discovery of his secret
and most direct attempt to defeat the measures of the
Congress, in the case now before us, and of some very
unjustifiable steps taken to conceal his disingenuous con-
duct, hath precluded us from the milder methods we would
wish to adopt, and compelled us to give the publick the
following narration : On Thursday, the 2d of March, this
Committee were informed of the arrival of the Brig Fan-
ny, Captain Watson, with a number of Slaves for Mr.
Brown; and, upon inquiry, it appeared that they were
shipped from Jamaica as his property, and on his account ;
that he had taken great pains to conceal their arrival from
the knowledge of the Committee ; and that the shipper of
the Slaves, Mr. Brotvn's correspondents, and the Captain
of the Vessel, were all fully apprized of the Continental
prohibition against that article. These circumstances in-
duced a suspicion that Mr. Brown had given orders for the
Slaves himself, which he positively denied, asserting that
he had expressly forbidden his correspondents to send any,
as being contrary to the Association, for the truth of which
he appealed to his own letter-book. The Secretary being
desired, at the request of Mr. Brown, to attend him to
inspect the orders said to have been given, reported that he
had had some slight and hasty glances at letters written
between the middle of December and beginning of January,
and was sorry to say he had seen one directed to Mr. Hen-
derson, and another to Mr. Livingston , both of the date of
December, and a third to Messrs. Campbells, of the first of
January, all containing positive and particular orders for
remittances to be made him in Slaves ; at the same time
hinting the necessity of secrecy, as it is an article, he
writes, he could not avowedly deal in. The Secretary
also reported, that he had seen a postscript, written a few
days after the determination of this Committee, directing
the return of a Slave imported from Antigua, in which
postscript Mr. Brown writes his correspondent to send
Fourth Series. — Vol. ii.

him no more than two Negro lads, as it would be danger-
ous to sell them here. But his orders to his other corres-
pondents appear to have been so positive that they were
complied with, notwithstanding his friend writes him that
good Slaves would sell to more advantage in Jamaica than
in Virginia. From the whole of this transaction, there-
fore, we, the Committee for Norfolk Borough, do give it
as our unanimous opinion, that the said John Brown has
wilfully and perversely violated the Continental Associa-
tion, to which he had, with his own hand, subscribed obe-
dience ; and that agreeable to the Eleventh Article we are
bound " forthwith to publish the truth of the case, to the
end that all such foes to the rights of British America
may be publickly known, and universally contemned, as
the enemies of American Liberty, and that every person
may henceforth break off all dealings with him."

Matthew Phripp, Chairman.

James Taylor, Thomas Newton, Jr., Niel Jamieson,

John Hutchings, Thomas Ritson, Robert Taylor,

John Lawrence, John Boush, Thomas Claiborne,

Joseph Hutchings, James Molt, Samuel Inglis.

Extract from the Minutes.

William Davies, Secretary.

BALTIMORE (MARYLAND) COMMITTEE.

At a Meeting of the Committee of Observation at Bal-
timore, March 6, 1775, present Forty-two Members- —

Captain William Moat, of the Brig Sally, from Bristol,
appeared before the Committee, and reported his cargo on
oath, consisting of one hundred tons of British Salt,
and twenty-four indented Servants. The Captain further
reports that he took in his Salt before the 12th day of
December, and on or about that day he fell down the River
with his Vessel, to a place called Rowland Ferry, there to
take in his Servants ; that he continued there until the 23d,
and sailed from King-Road the 24th of December.

On motion made by Doctor John Stevenson, to whom
Captain Moat's Vessel and Cargo were addressed, that he
might have liberty to land the said cargo of Salt, alleging
it ought only to be considered as ballast, and was not
intended to be prohibited by the Association of the Conti-
nental Congress,

The Committee took into consideratron the state of the
said Brig Sally, Captain William Moat :

Resolved, unanimously, That the Salt imported in said
Brisr be not landed.

CUMBERLAND COUNTY (NEW-JERSEY) COMMITTEE.

Cumberland County, New-Jersey, March 6, 1775.

The Committee of the County of Cumberland, in New-
Jersey, met at Bridgetown ; and after reading the Associa-
tion of the American Congress, it appeared, by the volun-
tary declaration of Silas Newcomb, Esquire, a Member of
the Committee, that he had contravened the same, and, in
open violation of the Third Article of the aforesaid Asso-
ciation, had drank East-India Tea in his family ever since
the first day of March instant, and that he is determined
to persist in the same practice. After much time spent in
vain to convince Mr. Newcomb of his errour, it was agreed,
that it is the duty of ibis Committee, agreeable to the
Eleventh Article of the above-mentioned compact, to break
off all dealings with him, and in this manner publish the
truth of the case, that he may be distinguished from the
friends of American liberty.

By order of the Committee,

Thomas Ewing, Clerk.

Cumberland County, NewJersey.

Whereas, Silas Newcomb, Esquire, was, in March last,
advertised by the Committee of said County, for a breach
of the Association of the Continental Congress, and having
since manifested a desire of making a publick acknowledge
ment for his former misconduct, the Committee accept,
of the following recantation, viz: —

" I, the subscriber, do hereby publickly acknowledge
my former errour, and voluntarily confess myself to blame
for obstinately refusing to submit to a majority of the Com-
mittee : and I do hereby ask pardon of the Members of the

35

CORRESPONDENCE, PROCEEDINGS, &c, MARCH, 1775.

36

Committee for the abuses offered them, and promise, for
the future, to regulate my conduct agreeable to the afore-
said Association, and a majority of said Committee. Wit-
ness my hand, the lltli day of May, 1775.

" Silas Nevvcomb."
Published by order of the Committee,

Thomas Ewing, Clerk.

FREEHOLD (MONMOUTH COUNTY, NEW-JERSEY) COM-
MITTEE.

Freehold, March 6, 1775.

Although the Committee of Observation and Inspection
for the Township of Freehold, in the County of Mon-
mouth, New-Jersey, was constituted early in December last,
and the members have statedly and assiduously attended
to the business assigned them ever since, yet they have
hitherto deferred the publication of their institution, in
hopes of the general concurrence of the other Townships
in the choice of a new County Committee, when one pub-
lication might have served for the whole ; but finding some
of them have hitherto declined to comply with the recom-
mendation of the General Congress in that respect, and
not knowing whether they intend it at all, they judge it
highly expedient to transmit the following account to the
Press, lest their brethren in distant parts of the Colony
should think the County of Monmouth altogether inactive
at the present important crisis.

"In pursuance of the recommendation of the Grand Con-
tinental Congress, and for the preservation and support of
American freedom, a respectable body of the Freeholders,
inhabitants of the Township of Freehold, met at Monmouth
Court-House, on Saturday, December 10th, 1774, and
unanimously elected the following gentlemen to serve as
a Committee of Observation and Inspection for the said
Town, viz : John Anderson, Esquire, Captain John Co-
venhoven, Messrs. Peter Forman, Hendrick Smock, Asher
Holmes, David Forman, and John Forman, Doctor Na-
thaniel Scudder, and Doctor Thomas Henderson, who
were instructed by their constituents to endeavour, to the
utmost of their knowledge and power, to carry into execu-
tion the several important and salutary measures pointed
out to them by the American Congress ; and, without fa-
vour or affection, to make all such diligent inquiry as shall
be found conducive to the accomplishment of the great
and necessary purposes held up by them to the attention
of America."

At an early meeting of said Committee, a pamphlet, en-
titled Free Thoughts on the Resolves of the Congress,
~by A. W. Farmer, was handed in to them, and their opin-
ion of it asked by a number of their constituents then pre-
sent. Said pamphlet was then read, and, upon mature
deliberation, unanimously declared to be a performance of
the most pernicious and malignant tendency ; replete with
the most specious sophistry, but void of any solid or ra-
tional argument ; calculated to deceive and mislead the un-
wary, the ignorant, and the credulous ; and designed, no
doubt, by the detestable author, to damp that noble spirit
of union, which he sees prevailing all over the Continent,
and, if possible, to sap the foundations of American free-
dom. The pamphlet was afterwards handed back to the
people, who immediately bestowed upon it a suit of tar
and turkey-buzzard's feathers ; one of the persons concern-
ed in the operation, justly observing that although the
feathers were plucked from the most stinking fowl in the
creation, he thought they fell far short of being a proper
emblem of the author's odiousness to every advocate for
true freedom. The same person wished, however, he had
the pleasure of fitting him with a suit of the same materi-
als. The pamphlet was then, in its gorgeous attire, nailed
up firmly to the pillory-post, there to remain as a monu-
ment of the indignation of a free and loyal people against
the author and vender of a publication so evidently tending
both to subvert the liberties of America, and the Constitu-
tion of the British Empire. *

At a subsequent meeting of said Committee, it was re-
solved, unanimously, that, on account of sundry publica-
tions in the pamphlet way, by James Rivington, Printer,
o( New- York, and also a variety of weekly productions in
his paper, blended, in general, with the most glaring false-
hoods, disgorged with the most daring effrontery, and all

evidently calculated to disunite the Colonies, and sow the
seeds of discord and contention through the whole Conti-
nent, they do esteem him a base and malignant enemy to
the liberties of this Country, and think he ought justly to
be treated as such by all considerate and good men. And
they do, for themselves, now publickly declare, (and re-
commend the same conduct to their constituents,) that they
will have no connection with him, the said Rivington.
while he continues to retail such dirty, scandalous, and trai-
torous performances ; but hold him in the utmost contempt,
as a noxious exotick plant, incapable either of cultivation
or improvement in this soil of freedom, and only fit to be
transported.

This Committee did early make application to every
other Township in the County, recommending the elec-
tion of Committees ; and they soon had information that
those of Upper Freehold, Middletown, and Dover, had
chosen theirs, and were resolved to enforce the measures
of the Congress.

N. B. A very considerable number of the inhabitants
of Freehold have formed themselves into Companies, and
chosen Military Instructors, under whose tuition they are
making rapid improvement.

Signed by order of the Committee,

John Andebson, Chairman.

MAJOR BENJAMIN FLOYD, ETC., TO COMMITTEE AT SMITH-
TOWN.

Brookhaven, Suffolk County, New- York, March 6, 1775.

Mr. Rivington: A Committee of Observation for seve-
ral Districts met on the 23d of February last, in Smith-
town, Suffolk County, Long-Island; they should have
told the publick that the few from Brookhaven were not
of the Committee. Whether any Committee in the Coun-
ty has been chosen, in the manner they speak of, we know
not. Brookhaven never was represented ; so it has not,
it cannot, approve of the Congress. We mean to consider
only what concerns us — the fifth and sixth of the Commit-
tee Resolves.

Why does this Committee so highly disapprove of the
Major and others ? Is it because he fulfils his oath to, and
exerts his power in defence of, Government ? Does his
example shame and upbraid them ? They assuredly would
commend and justify his conduct, were they not enchanted
by seditious, independent, republican principles ! It is your
opinion, that most of the subscribers in Messrs. Gaine and
Rivington's writing, were induced, &tc. It is our opin-
ion, that your opinion is a mere fiction. Have you heard
both sides ? Was there neither partiality or prejudice in the
way ? You may have an opinion that such as oppose you
are traitors ; this may lead you to proclaim them ; this may
excite you to imbrue your guilty hands in the blood of the
saints ! By what law did you form the opinion ; what evi-
dence have you to support it? For our part, we contemn
the Court, and its arbitrary mandates, that carries its sta-
tutes and laws in its bosom. Tell us the law we have
transgressed, " the unfair means we used," and who has
used any. We, who carried the Petition, used none ; the
people needed none, being generally glad of an opportu-
nity to sign it. You must know the Constitution dis-
avows ill arts; it condemns tyranny and slavery, and yours
among others. You say, you are informed a Court of
Inquisition would have said as much. Who are your in-
formers ? "A great number are dissatisfied ;" we call
upon you now to name diem, for " we are highly dissatis-
fied" with your unfair manner of stating things. We know
not any "that are dissatisfied with what they have done."
But we know some who are sorry that they missed the
opportunity of " signing it." But we will bury this pious
Resolve, with the solemnity of your next, saying it is re-
plete with the most impudent falsehoods and grossest mis-
representations.

A very ingenious writer, who is an honour to the Prov-
ince, somewhere says, " that Four Pence upon the Hun-
dred for the fibs, falsehoods, and misrepresentations of
America's Sons, would pay a considerable part of the
Nation's Debt." We are of his opinion.

" The Major and abetters of the ingenious A. W.
Farmer" call upon you to prove " them traitors." If they
are in no sense traitors, it is base and abominable " to es-

87

CORRESPONDENCE, PROCEEDINGS, he, MARCH, 1775.

38

teem and treat them as traitors to their Country." If
what is generally said be true, that the Congress made no
laws, then it can be no transgression to trample upon and
contemn the Association. For where there is no law, there
can be no transgression. Now if you fail in proof of so
high and presumptuous an imputation, the impartial pub-
lick must esteem you a most abusive and unlawful body.
No sacred pretext or design can justify the commission of
the least evil.

Tell us what moved you to proclaim our patriotick
Printers traitors? Do you really mean to immure the
Colonies in Popish darkness, by suppressing the vehicles
of light, truth, and liberty ? Are none to speak, write, or
print, but by your permission ? Does a conscience of guilt
and tyranny hurry the Committees to starve and murder
our virtuous Printers? One would conclude, from Mr.
Holt's papers, that they had lost virtue, honour, humanity,
and common sense. A free Press has been the honour
and glory of Englishmen ; by it our most excellent Con-
stitution has been raised to greater perfection than any in
the world. But we are become the degenerate plants of
a new and strange vine ; and now it seems ignorance must
be the mother of both devotion and politicks.

The Major and friends to Government desire the Com-
mittee, who had no right to represent Brookhaven, to take
back the odious, despicable epithet of traitors, as it is pe-
culiarly adapted to the enemies of the Country, and the
deluded abetters of the rebellious saints at Boston. For
we, in our turn, "think that they (if any) ought to be es-
teemed and treated as traitors to their Country, and ene-
mies to the liberties of America."

Signed by Major Benjamin Floyd, and a great number
of others.

MEETING AT DANVERS, (ESSEX COUNTY,) MASSACHUSETTS.

At a meeting of the people of the Alarm List of the
Third Company in Danvers, held at said Danvers 6th
March, 1775, for the purpose of electing Officers for said
Alarm List Company, Rev. Benjamin Batch, Chairman :

Said people unanimously made choice of Deacon Ed-
mund Putnam for Captain ; Rev. Benjamin Batch for a
Lieutenant; and Mr. Tarrant Putnam for an' Ensign.
The said Gentlemen being all present, declared their ac-
ceptance. Attest,

Arch. Dale, Clerk of said Meeting.

Boston, March 6, 1775.

At this inauspicious day, when Tyranny lifts her shame-
less front, and is followed by a train of unfeeling Apostates,
I cannot let my pen sleep. The enemies to Freedom,
convinced that the Americans are not to be cheated, now
openly declare that the Colonies must and will be subject-
ed by force. This brings up the last and great question,
whether the United Colonies can defend their rights ? If
they cannot, of all men they will be the most miserable.
But I believe they can, and will defend them ; and if the
sword should be drawn against them, they may strike such
a blow as will shake Britain to the centre. It is painful
to the Americans to contemplate measures which may be
ruinous to their brethren in Britain, but a tyrannical Min-
istry, encouraged by the Tories in both Countries, are now
pushing their destructive plans with such rapidity and vio-
lence, that we must look forward to the last grand step for
defence ; and if they will not hearken to the wise and just
proposals of the American Congress, but still continue to
go on from bad to worse, the Americans will be compelled,
by the great Law of Nature, to strike a decisive blow, and
follow the example of the once oppressed United Pro-
vinces— publish a manifesto to the world, showing the ne-
cessity of dissolving their connection with a Nation whose
Ministers were aiming at their ruin ; offer a Free Trade to
all Nations, and an asylum in the free regions of America to
all the oppressed through the world. This is the der-
nier resort; and this, O Americans! you can do; and
this you must do, unless tyranny ceases to invade your liber-
ties. This great subject 1 have viewed on all sides ; and
it might he demonstrated by a million of reasons, that the
Americans may thus secure to themselves and to posterity
the blessings of Freedom. Time and Judgment.

An Oration delivered Monday, March 6, 1775, at the
request of the Inhabitants of the Town of Boston, to
commemorate the bloody tragedy of the 5th of March.
1770. By Doctor Joseph Warren.

My ever honoured Fellow - Citizens :

It is not without the most humiliating conviction of my
want of ability that I now appear before you ; but the sense I
have of the obligation I am under to obey the calls of my
Country at all times, together with an animating recollection
of your indulgence exhibited upon so many occasions, has
induced me once more, undeserving as I am, to throw my-
self upon that candour which looks with kindness on the
feeblest efforts of an honest mind.

You will not now expect the elegance, the learning, the
fire, the enrapturing strains of eloquence, which charmed
you when a Lovel, a Church, or a Hancock spake ; but
you will permit me to say, that with a sincerity equal to
theirs, I mourn over my bleeding Country ; with them I
weep at her distress, and with them deeply resent the many
injuries she has received from the hands of cruel and un-
reasonable men.

That personal freedom is the natural right of every
man, and that property, or an exclusive right to dispose of
what he has honestly acquired by his own labour, necessa-
rily arises therefrom, are truths which common sense has
placed beyond the reach of contradiction ; and no man, or
body of men, can, without being guilty of flagrant injus-
tice, claim a right to dispose of the persons or acquisitions
of any other man, or body of men, unless it can be proved
that such a right has arisen from some compact between
the parties, in which it has been explicitly and freely
granted.

If I may be indulged in taking a retrospective view of
the first settlement of our Country, it will be easy to de-
termine with what degree of justice the late Parliament of
Great Britain have assumed the power of giving away
that property which the Americans have earned by their
labour.

Our fathers having nobly resolved never to wear the
yoke of Despotism, and seeing the European world, through
indolence and cowardice, falling a prey to tyranny, bravely
threw themselves upon the bosom of the Ocean, determined
to find a place in which they might enjoy their freedom, or
perish in the glorious attempt. Approving Heaven beheld
the favourite ark dancing upon the waves, and graciously
preserved it, until the chosen families were brought in
safety to these Western regions. They found the land
swarming with Savages, who threatened death with every
kind of torture ; but Savages, and death with torture, were
far less terrible than slavery. Nothing was so much the
object of their abhorrence as a tyrant's power ; they knew
that it was more safe to dwell with man, in his most un-
polished state, than in a Country where arbitrary power
prevails. Even Anarchy itself, that bugbear held up by
the tools of power, (though truly to be deprecated,) is in-
finitely less dangerous to mankind than arbitrary Govern-
ment. Anarchy can be but of short duration ; for when
men are at liberty to pursue that course which is most con-
ducive to their own happiness, they will soon come into it;
and, from the rudest state of nature, order and good go-
vernment must soon arise. But tyranny, when once
established, entails its curse on a Nation to the latest pe-
riod of time, unless some daring genius, inspired by Hea-
ven, shall, unappalled by danger, bravely form and execute
the arduous design of restoring liberty and life to his en-
slaved, murdered Country.

The tools of power, in every age, have racked their in-
ventions to justify the few in sporting with the happiness
of the many, and, having found their sophistry too weak to
hold mankind in bondage, have impiously dared to force
Religion, the daughter of the King of Heaven, to become
a prostitute in the service of Hell. They taught that
Princes, honoured with the name of Christians, might bid
defiance to the Founder of their faith ; might pillage Pagan
Countries, and deluge them with blood, only because they
boasted themselves to be the disciples of that Teacher who
strictly charged his followers to " do to others as they would
that others should do unto them."

This Country having been discovered by an English sub-
ject in the year 1620, was (according to the system which the

39

CORRESPONDENCE, PROCEEDINGS, fee, MARCH, 1775.

40

blind superstition of those times supported) deemed the
property of the Crown of England. Our ancestors, when
they resolved to quit their native soil, obtained from King
James a grant of certain lands in Norlh-Amcriai. This
they probably did to silence the cavils of their enemies, for
it cannot be doubted hut they despised the pretended right
which he claimed thereto. Certain it is, that he might,
with equal propriety ami justice, have made them a grant
of the planet Jupiter; and their subsequent conduct plainly
shows that they were too well acquainted with humanity
and the principles of natural equity, to suppose that the
grant gave them any right to take possession ; they there-
fore entered into a treaty with the natives, and bought from
them the lands. i\or have I yet obtained any information
that our ancestors ever pleaded, or that tbe natives ever
Hoarded the grant from the English Crown ; the business
was transacted by the parties in tbe same independent
manner tbat it would bave been had neither of tliem ever
known or beard of the Island of Great Britain.

Having become the honest proprietors of the soil, they
immediately applied themselves to the cultivation of it, and
they soon beheld the virgin earth teeming with richest
fruits ; a grateful recompense for their unwearied toil. The
fields began to wave with ripening harvests, and the late
barren wilderness was seen to blossom like the rose. The
savage natives saw with wonder the delightful change, and
quickly formed a scheme to obtain that, by fraud or force,
which nature meant as the reward of industry alone. But
the illustrious emigrants soon convinced the rude invaders
that they were not less ready to take the field for battle
than for labour ; and the insidious foe was driven from their
borders as often as he ventured to disturb them. The
Crown of England looked with indifference on the con-
test ; our ancestors were left alone to combat with the na-
tives. Nor is there any reason to believe that it ever was
intended by the one party, or expected by the other, that
the grantor should defend and maintain the grantees in the
peaceable possession of the lands named in the patents.
And it appears plainly, from the history of those times,
that neither the Prince, nor the people of England, thought
themselves much interested in the matter; they had not
then any idea of a thousandth part of those advantages
which they since have, and we are most heartily willing
they should still continue to reap from us.

But when, at an infinite expense of toil and blood, this
wide extended Continent had been cultivated and defend-
ed ; when the hardy adventurers justly expected that they
and their descendants should peaceably have enjoyed the
harvest of those fields which they had sown, 'and the fruit
of those vineyards which they had planted, this Country
was then thought worthy the attention of the British Min-
istry ; and the only justifiable, and only successful means
of rendering the Colonies serviceable to Britain, were
adopted. By an intercourse of friendly offices, the two
Countries became so united in affection that they thought
not of any distinct or separate interests ; they found both
Countries flourishing and happy. Britain saw her Com-
merce extended, and her wealth increased ; her lands raised
to an immense value ; her fleets riding triumphant on the
Ocean : the terrour of her arms spreading to every quarter
of the globe. The Colonist found himself free, and
thought himself secure ; he dwelt " under his own vine,
and under his own fig-tree, and had none to make him
afraid.'-' He knew, indeed, that by purchasing the manu-
factures of Great Britain, he contributed to its greatness ;
he knew that all the wealth that his labour produced cen-
tred in Great Britain; but that, far from exciting his envy,
filled him with the highest pleasure ; that thought sup-
ported him in all his toils. When the business of the
day was past, he solaced himself with the contemplation,
or perhaps entertained his listening family with the recital
of some great, some glorious transaction, which shines con-
spicuous in the history of Britain ; or perhaps his elevated
fancy led him to foretel, with a kind of enthusiastick con-
fidence, the glory, power, and duration of an Empire,
which should extend from one end of the earth to the
other ; he saw, or thought he saw, the British Nation risen
to a pitch of grandeur which cast a veil over the Boman
glory; and, ravished with the preview, boasted a race of
British Kings, whose names should echo through those
Realms where Cyrus, Alexander, and the Cusars, were

unknown ; Princes for whom millions of grateful subjects,
redeemed from Slavery and Pagan ignorance, should, with
thankful tongues, oiler up their players and praises to that
transcendantly Great and Beneficent Being " by whom
Kings reign, and Princes decree justice."

These pleasing connections might have continued, these
delightsome prospects might have been every day extended,
and even the reveries of the most warm imagination might
have been realized ; but, unhappily for us, unhappily for
Britain, the madness of an avaricious Minister of State
has drawn a sable curtain over the charming scene, and in
its stead has brought upon the stage discord, envy, hatred,
and revenge, with civil war close in the rear !

Some demon, in an evil hour, suggested to a short-
sighted financier the hateful project of transferring the
whole property of the King's subjects in America to his
subjects in Britain. The claim of tbe British Parliament
to tax the Colonies can never be supported but by such a
transfer; for the right of the House of Commons of Great
Britain to originate any tax, or to grant money, is alto-
gether derived from their being elected by the people of
Great Britain to act for them; and the people of Great
Britain cannot confer on their Representatives a right to
give or grant any thing which they themselves have not a
right to give or grant personally. Therefore it follows,
that if the Members chosen by the people of Great Bri-
tain to represent them in Parliament have, by virtue of
their being so chosen, any right to give or grant American
property, or to lay any tax upon the lands or persons of
the Colonists, it is because the lands and people in the
Colonies are, bona fide, owned by. and justly belong to the
people of Great Britain. But (as has been before
observed) every man has a natural right to personal freedom,
consequently a right to enjoy what is acquired by his own
labour ; and as it is evident that the property in this Coun-
try has been acquired by our own labour, it is the duty of
the people of Great Britain to produce some compact in
which we have explicitly given up to them a right to dis-
pose of our persons or property. Until this is done, every
attempt of theirs, or of those whom they have deputed to
act for them, to give or grant any part of our property, is
directly repugnant to every principle of reason and natural
justice. But I may boldly say that such a compact never
existed, no, not even in imagination. Nevertheless, the
Representatives of a Nation, long famed for justice, and
the exercise of every noble virtue, have been prevailed on
to adopt the fatal scheme ; and although the dreadful con-
sequences of this wicked policy have already shaken the
Empire to its centre, yet still it is persisted in, regardless
of the voice of reason, deaf to the prayers and supplica-
tions, and unaffected with the flowing tears of suffering
millions, the British Ministry still hug the darling idol,
and every rolling year affords fresh instances of the absurd
devotion with which they worship it. Alas ! how has the
folly — the distraction of the British Councils, blasted our
swelling hopes, and spread a gloom over this Western hem-
isphere ! The hearts of Britons and Americans, which
lately felt the generous glow of mutual confidence and love,
now burn with jealousy and rage. Though but of yesterday,
1 recollect (deeply affected at the ill-boding change) the
happy hours that passed whilst Britain and America re-
joiced in the prosperity and greatness of each other.
Heaven grant those halcyon days may soon return ! But
now the Briton, too often looks on the American with an
envious eye, taught to consider his just plea for the enjoy-
ment of his earning as the effect of pride and stubborn
opposition to the Parent Country ; whilst the American
beholds the Briton as the ruffian, ready first to take away
his property, and next, what is dearer to every virtuous
man, the liberty of his Country.

When the measures of Administration had disgusted the
Colonies to the highest degree, and the people of Great
Britain had, by artifice and falsehood, been irritated against
America, an Army was sent over to enforce submission to
certain Acts of the British Parliament, which reason
scorned to countenance, and which placemen and pension-
ers were found unable to support.

Martial Law, and the government of a well regulated
Cky, are so entirely different, that it has always been con-
sidered as improper to quarter Troops in populous Cities,
as frequent disputes must necessarily arise between the

41

CORRESPONDENCE, PROCEEDINGS, &c, MARCH, 1775.

42

citizen and the soldier, even if no previous animosities sub-
sist ; and it is farther certain, from a consideration of the
nature of mankind, as well as from constant experience,
that Standing Armies always endanger the liberty of the
subject. But when the people, on the one part, consi-
dered the Army as sent to enslave them ; and the Army,
on the other, were taught to look on the people as in a
state of rebellion, it was hut just to fear the most disagree-
• able consequences. Our fears, we have seen, were but too
well grounded.

The many injuries offered to the Town I pass over in
silence. I cannot now mark out the path which led to
that unequalled scene of honour, the sad remembrance of
which takes the full possession of my soul. The sangui-
nary theatre again opens itself to view ; the baleful images
of terrour crowd around me; and discontented ghosts, with
hollow groans, appear to solemnize the anniversary of the
fifth of March.

Approach we then the melancholy walk of death !
Hither let me call the gay companion ; here let him drop a
farewell tear upon that body which so late he saw vigorous
and warm with social mirth ! Hither let me lead the ten-
der mother, to weep over her beloved son ! Come, widowed
mourner, here satiate thy grief. Behold thy murdered
husband gasping on the ground! And, to complete the
pompous shew of wretchedness, bring in each hand thy
infant children to bewail their father's fate. Take heed,
ye orphan babes, lest, whilst your streaming eyes are fixed
upon the ghastly corpse, your feet slide on the stones be-
spattered with your father's brains.* Enough ! This tragedy
need not be heightened by an infant weltering in the blood
of him that gave it birth. Nature, reluctant, shrinks al-
ready from the view, and the chilled blood rolls slowly
backward to its fountain. We wildly stare about, and with
amazement ask, Who spread this ruin round us? What
wretch has dared to deface the image of his God 1 Has
haughty France, or cruel Spain, sent forth her myrmidons?
Has the grim Savage rushed again from the far distant wil-
derness ? Or does some fiend, fierce from the depth of
Hell, with all the rancorous malice which the apostate
damned can feel, twang her destructive bow, and hurl her
deadly arrows at our breast? No, none of these. But how
astonishing ! It is the hand of Britain that inflicts the
wound ; the Arms of George, our rightful King, have been
employed to shed that blood which freely would have
flown at his command, when justice, or the honour of his
Crown, had called his subjects to the field.

But pity, grief, astonishment, with all the softer move-
ments of the soul, must now give way to stronger passions.
Say, fellow-citizens, what dreadful thought now swells
your heaving bosoms ? You fly to arms ; sharp indignation
flashes from each eye ; revenge gnashes her iron teeth ;
death grins a hideous smile, secure to drench his greedy jaws
in human gore ; whilst hovering furies darken all the air.

But stop, my bold adventurous countrymen; stain not
your weapons with the blood of Britons; attend to rea-
son's voice ; humanity puts in her claim, and sues to be
again admitted to her wonted seat — the bosom of the brave.
Revenge is far beneath the noble mind. Many, perhaps,
compelled to rank among the vile assassins, do, from their
inmost souls, detest the barbarous action. The winged
death, shot from your arms, may chance to pierce some
breast that bleeds already for your injured Country.

The storm subsides ; a solemn pause ensues ; you spare
upon condition they depart. They go ; they quit your
City ; they no more shall give offence. Thus closes the
important drama.

And could it have been conceived that we again should
have seen a British Army in our land, sent to enforce
obedience to Acts of Parliament destructive of our liber-
ty ? But the Royal ear, far distant from the Western world,
has been assaulted by the tongue of slander ; and vil-
lains, traitorous alike to King and Country, have prevailed
upon a gracious Prince to clothe his countenance with
wrath, and to erect the hostile banner against a people ever
affectionate and loyal to him and his illustrious predeces-
sors of the House of Hanover. Our Streets are ao-ain
filled with armed men, our Harbour is crowded with Ships-
of-war; but these cannot intimidate us; our liberty must

• After Mr. (Irmj had been «'iot through the bo:Iy, and had fallen
■ 'i J, a bayonet was pushed through his skull ; part of
til 3 bo:ie being broken, his brains full out upo.u the pavement.

be preserved ; it is far dearer than life ; we hold it even
dear as our allegiance ; we must defend it against the
attacks of friends as well as enemies ; we cannot suffer
even Britons to ravish it from us.

No longer could we reflect with generous pride on the
heroick actions of our American forefathers; no |on«"er
boast our origin from that far-famed island, whose warlike
sons have so often drawn their well-tried swords to save
her from the ravages of tyranny, could we but for a mo-
ment entertain the thought of giving up our liberty. The
man who meanly will submit to wear a shackle, contemns
the noblest gift of Heaven, and impiously affronts the Ood
that made him free.

It was a maxim of the Roman people, which eminently
conduced to the greatness of that State, never to despair of
the Commonwealth. The maxim may prove as salutary
to us now as it did to them. Short-sighted mortals see
not the numerous links of small and great events, which
form the chain on which the fate of Kings and Nations is
suspended. Ease and prosperity (though pleasing for a
day) have often sunk a people into effeminacy and sloth.
Hardships and dangers (though we forever strive to shun
them) have frequently called forth such virtues as have
commanded the applause and reverence of an admiring
world.

Our Country loudly calls you to be circumspect, vigi-
lant, active, and brave. Perhaps, (all-gracious Heaven
avert it) perhaps the power of Britain, a Nation great in
war, by some malignant influence may be employed to
enslave you ; but let not even this discourage you. Her
Arms, it is true, have filled the world with terrour; her
Troops have reaped the laurels of the field; her Fleets
have rode triumphant on the sea ; and when or where did
you, my countrymen, depart inglorious from the field of
fight ?* You, too, can show the trophies of your forefa-
thers' victories and your own ; can name the fortresses and
battles you have won, and many of you count the honour-
able scars of wounds received, whilst fighting for your King
and Country.

Where justice is the standard, Heaven is the warriour's
shield ; but conscious guilt unnerves the arm that lifts the
sword against the innocent. Britain, united with these
Colonies by commerce and affection, by interest and blood,
may mock the threats of France and Spain ; may be the
seat of universal Empire. But should America either by
force, or those more dangerous engines — luxury and corrup-
tion, ever be brought into a state of vassalage, Britain
must lose her freedom also. No longer shall she sit the
Empress of the sea ; her ships no more shall waft her
thunders over the wide ocean ; the wreath shall wither on
her temples ; her weakened arm shall be unable to defend
her coasts ; and she at last must bow her venerable head to
some proud foreigner's despotick rule.

But if from past events we may venture to form a judg-
ment of the future, we justly may expect that the devices
of our enemies will but increase the triumphs of our
Country. I must indulge a hope that Britain's liberty, as
well as ours, will eventually be preserved by the virtue of
America.

The attempt of the British Parliament to raise a Rev-
enue from America, and our denial of their right to do
it, have excited an almost universal inquiry into the rights
of mankind in general, and of British subjects in particu-
lar ; the necessary result of which must be such a liberality
of sentiment, and such a jealousy of those in power, as
will, better than an adamantine wall, secure us against the
future approaches of despotism.

* The patience with which this people have borne the repeated inju-
ries which have been heaped upon them, and their unwillingness to
take any sanguinary measures, has very injudiciously been ascribed to
cow;udice, by persons both here and in Great Britain. I most heartily
wish that an opinion so erroneous in itself, and so fatal in its conse-
quences, might be utterly removed bafore it be too late ; and I think
nothing farther necssary to convince every intelligent, man that the
conduct of this people is owing to tiie tender regard which they have
for their fellow-men, and an utter abhorrence to the shedcing of human
blood, than a little attention to their general temper and disposition
discovered when they c umot bo supposed to be under any apprehen-
sion of danger to themselves. I will only mention the universal
detestation which they shew to every act of cruelty, by whom, and upon
whomsoever committed; the mild spirit of their Laws; the very few
crimes to which capital penalties are annexed, and the very great back-
wardness which but!) Courts and Juri:6 discover, in condemning per-
sons charged with capital crimes. But if any should think this obser-
vation not to the purpos'-, I readily appeal to those gentlemen of th<'
Army who have bien in the camp, or in the field, with the Americaim.

43

CORRESPONDENCE, PROCEEDINGS, Sec, MARCH, 1775.

44

The malice of the Boston Port Bill has been defeated,
in a very considerable degree, by giving you an opportuni-
ty of deserving, and our brethren in this and our sister
Colonies an opportunity of bestowing, those benefactions
which have delighted your friends, and astonished your
enemies, not only in America, but in Europe also ; and
what is more valuable still, the sympathetick feelings for a
brother in distress, and the grateful emotions excited in the
breast of him who finds relief, must forever endear each to
the other, and form those indissoluble bonds of friendship
and affection, on which the preservation of our right so
evidently depends.

The mutilation of our Charter has made ever Colony
jealous for its own ; for this, if once submitted to by us,
would set on float the property and Government of every
British settlement upon the Continent. If Charters are
not deemed sacred, how miserably precarious is every thing
founded upon them ?

Even the sending Troops to put these Acts in execution,
is not without advantages to us. The exactness and beauty
of their discipline inspire our youth with ardour in the
pursuit of military knowledge. Charles the Invincible
taught Peter the Great the Art of War. The battle of
Pultowa convinced Charles of the proficiency Peter had
made.

Our Country is in danger, but not to be despaired of.
Our enemies are numerous and powerful, but we have
many friends determined to be free, and Heaven and earth
will aid the resolution. On you depend the fortunes of
America. You are to decide the important question, on
which rest the happiness and liberty of millions yet unborn.
Act worthy of yourselves — the faultering tongue of hoary
age calls on you to support your Country. The lisping
infant raises its suppliant hands, imploring defence against
the monster slavery. Your fathers look from their celes-
tial seats with smiling approbation on their sons, who
boldly stand forth in the cause of virtue ; but sternly frown
upon the inhuman miscreant who, to secure the loaves
and fishes to himself, would breed a serpent to destroy his
children.

But pardon me, my fellow-citizens ; I know you want
not zeal or fortitude. You will maintain your rights, or
perish in the generous struggle. However difficult the
combat, you never will decline it when freedom is the

Rrize. An independence on Great Britain is not our aim.
\o, our wish is that Britain and the Colonies may, like
the oak and ivy, grow and increase in strength together.
But whilst the infatuated plan of making one part of the
Empire slaves to the other is persisted in, the interest and
safety of Britain, as well as the Colonies, require that the
wise measures recommended by the Honourable the Con-
tinental Congress be steadily pursued ; whereby the unna-
tural contest, between a parent honoured, and a child be-
loved, may probably be brought to such an issue, as that
the peace and happiness of both may be established upon
a lasting basis. But if these pacifick measures are ineffect-
ual ; and it appears that the only way to safety is through
fields of blood, I know you will not turn your faces from
your foes, but will undauntedly press forward until tyranny
is trodden under foot ; and you have fixed your adored
Goddess, Liberty, fast by a Brunswick's side, on the Ameri-
can Throne.

You, then, who nobly have espoused your Country's
cause — who generously have sacrificed wealth and ease —
who have despised the pomp and show of tinselled great-
ness— refused the summons to the festive board — been
deaf to the alluring calls of luxury and mirth — who have
forsaken the downy pillow to keep your vigils by the mid-
night lamp for the salvation of your invaded Country, that
you might break the fowler's snare and disappoint the vul-
ture of his prey, you then will reap that harvest of renown
which you so justly have deserved. Your Country shall
pay her grateful tribute of applause. Even the children
of your most inveterate enemies (ashamed to tell from
whom they sprang, while they in secret curse their stupid,
cruel parents) shall join the general voice of gratitude to
those who broke the fetters which their fathers forged.

Having redeemed your Country, and secured the bless-
ing to future generations, who, fired by your example,
shall emulate your virtues, and learn from you the Heaven-
ly art of making millions happy, with heart-felt joy — with

transports all your own, you cry, the glorious work is
done ! then drop the mantle to some young Elisha, and
take your seats with kindred spirits in your native skies.

TO THE INHABITANTS OF NEW-YORK.

New. York, Monday, March G, 1775.

My Fellow-Citizens: As you are called on this day
to give your voices on a measure of importance, permit one
who has your welfare most anxiously at heart, to state the
matter as it is. On the 2d instant, the Committee pub-
lished an Advertisement to call you together, upon the
business therein expressed. They do not pretend that
this is in consequence of any powers you have vested with
them ; it is, therefore, a proposal coming from them as so
many individuals. On Friday, the third instant, a num-
ber of Citizens, equally reputable in their characters with
the members of the Committee, and far superiour in num-
bers, upon mature deliberation, conceived that this measure
ought to be postponed. Every person who wants the
sanction of your approbation should maintain his proposals
with reasons, and the advocates for postponing the question
have assigned a number in support of it. These you have
seen in a handbill, and you are the judges of the weight
they deserve. What arguments there are to hasten and
precipitate this question, is not known, nor is it proper in
the hurry and confusion of a crowd, to discuss questions
which require time and attention for a sober, judicious
determination. It seems proper, therefore, to postpone
this question, from which no disadvantage can possibly arise.

A Freeman.

to the inhabitants of the city of new-york.

New.York, Monday, March 6, 1775.

It has been the practice of some people in this City, upon
all occasions, in order to defeat the well meant endeavours
of its real friends, to misrepresent their intentions. With
this view, it has been artfully propagated, that the Citizens
who assembled at Montagnie's on Friday, had resolved to
oppose the appointment of Delegates. Disposed as I am,
as an individual, for the measure of Delegates, I was
alarmed at this insinuation ; and having attentively consi-
dered the proceedings of the Meeting on Friday, find that
the report is entirely false, and calculated to mislead you.
The only measure proposed by the friends of Constitutional
Liberty is, that the nomination of Delegates may be post-
poned ; the time appointed by the Committee being so
short as not to admit of deliberating on the most proper
mode of electing them, and of framing proper instructions
for their government. The method proposed by the Com-
mittee being extremely exceptionable, and such as will
put this City, which pays one third of the taxes of the
Colony, upon a footing with the smallest County in it.

A Burgher.

to the respectable inhabitants of the city OF NEW-
YORK.

New.York, Monday, March 6, 1775.

Friends and Fellow-Citizens : By the general
tenour of your conduct, since the commencement of our
unhappy disputes with Great Britain, you have uniformly
and fully evinced yourselves to be possessed of an inviola-
ble attachment to the cause of Constitutional Liberty, as
well as of unshaken Loyalty to our most Gracious Sover-
eign, and a just abhorrence of such irregular proceedings
as indicated a spirit of disaffection, or independency in any
of the Colonists. These virtues, always valuable in a high
degree, are peculiarly so in times like the present, when
a dangerous infatuation has seized so many; when discord
and tyranny, in the guise of liberty, stalk forth among us ;
and, under specious pretences, would entail misery, ruin,
and the most abject slavery upon us. These virtues,
which you have nobly exerted on several occasions, will
soon be called to another trial.

A summons has been issued last Thursday, by the Chair-
man, and by order of the Committee, commanding your
attendance at the Exchange on Monday, the 6th instant,
for the purpose of choosing Delegates to go to the next
Continental Congress. Considering our late transactions

45

CORRESPONDENCE, PROCEEDINGS, fee, MARCH, 1775.

46

here relative to this matter, I am sure you must be greatly
surprised at such a step as this. Especially when you are
not called to deliberate on the expediency or propriety of
appointing Delegates for the above purpose; but actually
to choose them ! and this, in consequence of an edict from
the late Congress, whose views and proceedings you most
cordially disapprove! Willing or unwilling, you are re-
quired to comply with this mandate.

Our only legal, Constitutional Representatives, the
Members of our Assembly, to whom we have voluntarily
committed the guardianship of our liberties, and the direc-
tion of our publick affairs, and who are vested with full
authority for these important ends, have absolutely refused
to appoint any Delegates for the ensuing Congress. Would
not such an attempt in you, therefore, be an open violation
of their just authority, and a glaring insult on them?

Whatever reasons might have existed for sending Dele-
gates to the former Congress, there are none sucli now ;
but many cogent reasons to the contrary. Our Assembly
have taken the subject of our grievances into consideration,
and are vigorously pursuing the most effectual methods for
obtaining their redress. The proceedings of the late Con-
gress were violent and treasonable. Instead of healing the
unnatural breach between us and the Parent State, which
was the ardent wish of every honest, good man, they shut
up every avenue to an accommodation. An adherence to
their proceedings must have infallibly involved us in all the
horrours of a Civil War, and ended in our ruin. Fully
sensible of this, and of the unjust tyrannical power usurped
by that Congress over North America, our Assembly — to
their immortal honour be it spoken — had virtue and forti-
tude enough to reject those proceedings. Like faithful
guardians of the great trust committed to them, they have
taken the proper Constitutional steps to snatch us from
impending ruin ; restore harmony between this Country
and Great Britain, and to secure our liberties on the firm
basis of Constitutional principles.

Now reflect, my fellow-citizens, will not your sending
Delegates to the next Congress directly tend to frustrate
these laudable endeavours, of whose success we have a
moral certainty ? Will it not place this Province in the
most absurd, inconsistent point of light, as bursting the
bands of all Government, both with respect to Great
Britain and our own Legislature ? May I not aver, with
truth, that you hold the violent proceedings of the late
Congress in abhorrence ? What can you expect from the
next Congress but such measures as were adopted by the
last, when you know the same Delegates are generally
appointed by the other Colonies? Few alterations have
been made ; and where any have taken place, they were
for the worse — persons more violent, if possible, being
chosen. In what other view can we appear to Great
Britain, than as heartily concurring with those who have
attempted to throw off all allegiance — all subordination
whatever ? Nay ! as acting in concert with those who
have been guilty of open treason in the broad face of day ?
for that is the case of one of the New-Hampshire Dele-
gates. I forget his name — it is the fellow who headed a
riotous mob, stormed one of His Majesty's Forts, and forci-
bly carried off the Cannon, Arms, and Ammunition lodged
there for the express purpose of using them against his
Sovereign. A gentleman is known by the company he
keeps ; and so is an honest man, or a loyal subject.

But this proposed meeting on Monday is replete with
further mischief; for you are to assemble, not only for choos-
ing Delegates, but also " to signify your sense, whether
you will appoint a certain number of persons to meet such
Deputies as the Counties may elect for that purpose, and
join with them in appointing, out of their body, Delegates
for the next Congress." Here you may perceive the first
outlines of a Provincial Congress — the first artful advance
towards bringing on us one of the heaviest curses. If the
abetters of Republicanism can gain this advantage over the
friends of our Constitution, the consequences must be ter-
rible. Our Constitutional Assembly will become a mere
cypher, and all order subverted.

I beseech you, fellow-citizens, to think for yourselves.
Turn your eyes to those Colonies where Provincial Con-
gresses are chosen ; see the effects produced by them, and
judge from those facts. In South- Carolina the Provincial
Congress has shut up all the Courts of Justice. No man

dare attempt to recover a just debt, unless graciously per-
mitted by the Committee of the County. By very late
accounts from Virginia, 1 am informed that matters "there
are in much the same predicament. In Maryland, the
Provincial Congress has wrested the Militia out of the
King's hands, and has levied immense sums of money —
extorted large contributions from the inhabitants for the
purpose of raising Troops to fight against His Majesty.
The Provincial Congress of Pennsylvania met lately to
carry the same design into execution, and were near effect-
ing their purpose; and there the liberty of the Press is
utterley destroyed. As for Massachusetts, you know the
Provincial Congress have appointed a Treasurer, levied
money, enlisted Minute Men, and are taking every step
totally to annihilate the King's just and legal authority in
that Province.

These are notorious, indubitable facts. They cannot
be denied. Say, then, fellow-citizens, do you choose to
bring yourselves into a similar situation ? If so, then do
not fail to appoint a certain number of persons, on Mon-
day, the 6th instant, to meet such Deputies as the County
may elect for that purpose, and to join with them. By
this means a Provincial Congress will be immediately
formed ; and as the warmest and most forward persons are
generally chosen on those occasions, I may venture to pro-
nounce our Provincial Congress will not fall short of others
in usurping an unjust authority, in being tenacious of it,
and plunging this Province into the greatest confusion and
irregularities. But if you detest, as I know you do, the
thoughts of such proceedings, then unite as one man in op-
posing them. Let neither indolence, or any other con-
sideration, prevent you from exerting your usual fortitude
and spirit to stop the mischief which is swiftly approach-
ing. Do not sully your former reputation, by suffering this
maddest freak of rampant Republicanism to take place —
the appointment of a Provincial Congress. Crush this
accursed cockatrice whilst it is in embryo ; if you permit
it to grow up to maturity, it will sting you to death.

I am very sensible that no gentleman or man of charac-
ter among us would, as matters are now circumstanced,
accept of the appointment of Delegate to the Continental
Congress, or of Deputy to a Provincial Congress. But
you very well know that there are several here, who are
under no restraints of delicacy, or regard to decorum and
order on this head. These having no consequence, but
such as they derive from our confusions, would willingly
perpetuate those confusions, as it would raise their impor-
tance, and flatter their vanity. Against these you should
be peculiarly on your guard. They will not fail to im-
prove any supineness you may show on this occasion.
Men of property should be alert and watchful, in the high-
est degree, on this emergency ; for these having little or
no property of their own, will be the more apt to make
free with that of others ; and we have no check or control
on them, if they are once exalted into a Provincial Con-
gress. To levy money will be one part of their office,
and, besides, their intemperate measures will probably lead
to confiscations, by which they can lose nothing.

That wisdom, loyalty, firm attachment to your excel-
lent Constitution, and zealous assiduity may guide you at
this most important crisis, is the unfeigned wish of

A Citizen of New-York.

TO THE PUBLICK.

New-York, Tuesday, March 7, 1775.

"A Citizen of New- York," has attempted, in Mr.
Gaine's last Paper, to sow the seeds of discord among
us, and interrupt our union and harmony. Those who read
his performance attentively, will easily see his design ; but
cursory and less intelligent readers may be deceived by
him. To prevent this, I will make a few remarks upon
his curious publication.

As soon as he has finished his introduction, (which con-
sists of nothing more than common-place phrases and trite
expressions,) he begins to abuse our virtuous and patriotick
Committee; and in the most villanous manner represents
them as having done what they never did, and, I dare say,
never thought of. He says, " a summons has been issued
last Thursday, by the Chairman, and by order of the Com-
mittee, commanding your attendance at the Exchange on

17

CORRESPONDENCE. PROCEEDINGS, &c., MARCH, 1775.

48

Monday, the 6th instant, Tor the purpose of choosing Dele-
gmtes to _ro to the next Continental Congress." Is this
true? It is not; — it is a wilful misrepresentation. Ex-
amine the Committee's advertisement : " they request that
the Freeholders, &c, will be pleased to assemble, to sig-
nify their sense of the best method of choosing Delegates,
and whether they will appoint a certain number of persons,
to meet such Deputies as the Counties may elect for that
purpose, and join with them in appointing Delegates out
of their body for the next Congress." Can any thing be
more modest': Can words express a greater deference to
the opinion of the publick ? Or could the Counties be
treated in a more respectful manner ? There is no such
thing as " commanding your attendance," nor was it the
design of the meeting " actually to choose" Delegates, as
plainly appears from the Committee's advertisement. It
is true, you were " not called to deliberate on the expe-
diency and propriety of appointing Delegates ;" but the
reason for this was, not an overbearing disposition in the
Committee, but because the " expediency and propriety"
of the measure was allowed on all hands; even those who
met at Montagnie's, where Mr. John Thurman was Chair-
man, did not'deny either of them, but implicitly agreed
to both, and only proposed trying to get "the meeting
of Monday next postponed until the 20th of April."
So you see the artful falsehood used by this same Mr.
Citizen.

The arguments drawn from the conduct of our Assembly
are futile and ridiculous. What have they done about the
matter? They have determined " not to take into con-
sideration the proceedings of the Continental Congress,
held in the City of Philadelphia, in the months of Septem-
ber and October last ;" and that the sense of the House
should " not be taken on the necessity of appointing Dele-
gates for this Colony, to meet the Delegates for the other
Colonies on this Continent in General Congress, on the
10th day of May next." If 1 understand English, this is
nothing more than if the Honourable House had said, these
are matters with which we do not choose to have any con-
nexion, and therefore shall neither censure nor applaud,
but leave it entirely to our constituents, to act as they think
proper ; if they choose to approve the proceedings of the
Congress, and adhere to their determinations, let them do
it; if not, let them disapprove of them, and signify their
approbation or disapprobation in their own way. This
seems to me the most natural construction of the conduct
of the Honourable House; and that of some of the Mem-
bers yesterday appears to justify this construction, for a
number of them attended the meeting at the Exchange ;
and to suppose they would encourage, by their presence,
a meeting which was (as the Citizen is pleased to call it)
" an open violation of their just authority, and a glaring
insult on them," contains such a reflection on the good
sense of those gentlemen, and the propriety of their con-
duct, as I do not choose to make, and think ought not to
be made by any person whatever. It appears, then, very
plain, that the Citizen must have entirely mistaken the
matter, or wilfully misrepresented it, that he might be fur-
nished with weighty arguments against the meeting. From
his perversion of the Committee's advertisement, I strong-
ly suspect the latter was the case, but it is not right to use
our firm attachment to our Constitutional Legislature as an
instrument to deceive us. Fie! Mr. Citizen; that is a
low-lived trick.

The remainder of the Citizen's Address is such an inco-
herent confusion of Provincial Congress, Republicanism,
Constitutional Assemblies, Militia, Legal Authority, Cocka-
trices, Embryos, &c, that I am apt to think the man was
non compos mentis when he wrote it, and I shall not at-
tempt to answer it, lest the publick should think that I am
mad too.

You see, my friends, what arts are used to support a
faction ; be on your guard ; you acted yesterday in a man-
ner worthy of yourselves ; continue to act on all future
occasions with the same order, decency, unanimity, and
firmness ; you will thereby confound the friends of des-
potism, convince them your attachment to "the best of
Kinirs" and Constitutional Government is inviolable, and
will preserve your own liberty, and that of your posterity,
till lime shall be no more.

Another Citizen.

City of New.York, M iroli 7, 1771.

Personally came and appeared before me, David Mat-
thews, Esquire, one of His Majesty's Justices of the Peace,
for the City and County of New-York, John Graham.
Clerk to Robert and John Murray, of this City, Mer-
chants, and being duly sworn on the Holy Evangelists of
Almighty God, did depose and say, that he left this City
on Monday morning last, in company with the said John
Murray, and proceeded with him on board the Ship Beu-
lah, then lying at the watering place ; that shortly after
they arrived on board said Ship they weighed anchor, and
proceeded to Sandy Hook, where the said Ship continued
until about seven of the clock this morning, at which time
they weighed anchor and stood out to Sea; that the said
deponent and the said John Murray left the said Ship, and
came up opposite to Staten Island, where the said John
Murray landed, about two of the clock this afternoon,
and was going (as the deponent understood from the said
John Murray) to Elizabethtown, to settle some business
with Lord Stirling ; that the deponent saw the said Ship
pass the Light-House about eight of the clock this morn-
ing ; that neither the said John Murray or the deponent
was on board the said Ship after the anchor was weighed ;
that the deponent did not hear any conversation between
the said John Murray and any other person, relative to the
taking any goods out of the said Ship, nor does he be-
lieve that any boat was employed for that purpose ; that
the deponent's business on board was to copy invoices and
letters. And further this deponent saith not.

John Graham.

Sworn, this 7th day of March, before me,

D. Matthews.

New-York, Wednesday, March 8, 1775.

On Friday evening last, a number of persons who dis-
approved of the proposal made by the Committee for this
City and County, in their advertisement, published Thurs-
day, met at the house of the widow De La Montagnie,
and after choosing Mr. John Thurman Chairman, proposed
attempting to get the business intended for last Monday,
(viz : the choice of persons to meet the Deputies from
the Counties, for the purpose of choosing Delegates for
the next Congress) postponed until the 20th of April,
and published a handbill, desiring those who were of their
sentiments to meet them there on Monday, the 6th in-
stant, at ten o'clock, and proceed from thence to the
Exchange.

A number of the friends of Constitutional Liberty, hear-
ing of this manoeuvre, and apprehending a scheme was on
foot to defeat the design of sending Delegates to the Con-
gress, met on the next evening, and determined to support
the Committee, of whose virtue and patriotism we have
had ample experience. At the close of the meeting, a
gentleman having informed the company that the owners
of the Ship Beulah (some time since arrived from Lon-
don) had not performed their promise of sending her
back, and that, therefore, the Committee's Boat had left
her; about three hundred citizens unanimously deter-
mined to wait upon the owners to know why the Beulah
had not sailed, and required the Captain's repairing imme-
diately on board his Ship, then lying at the watering place,
in order to her departure with the first fair wind. Thi*
service was effectually performed ; and next day the Vessel
fell down to the Hook, from whence she put to Sea on
Tuesday.

Early on Monday morning preparations w-ere made for
the meeting at the Exchange. A Union Flag, with a red
field, was hoisted on the Liberty-pole, where, at nine
o'clock, the friends of Freedom assembled, and having got
in proper readiness, about eleven o'clock the body began
their march to the Exchange. They were attended by
musick ; and two standard bearers carried a large Union
Flag, with a blue field, on which were the following inscrip-
tions : On one side, George III. — Rex and the Liberties
of America. — No Popery. On the other : The Union
of the Colonies, and the Measures of Congress. Some
time after they had arrived at the Exchange, came also
the other company, who had met at the widow De La
Montagnie'*, among whom were some Officers of the Army
and Navy, several of His Majesty's Council, and those

49

CORRESPONDENCE, PROCEEDINGS, fee, MARCH, 1775.

50

Members of the House of Representatives, who bad re-
fused taking into consideration the proceedingsof the Con-
gress, together with< Officers of the Customs, and other de-
pendants on the Court, Sec. Soon after the parties met,
some confusion arose, but subsided without any bad conse-
quences. The Chairman of the Committee then pro-
ceeded to explain the design of the meeting ; after which
he proposed the following questions, viz:

First Question. Whether a certain number of persons
shall be appointed and authorized to meet such Deputies
as the Counties may elect, and join with them for the sole
purpose of appointing out of their body, on the 20th of
April next, Delegates for the next Congress ?

Second Question. Whether this meeting will authorize
the Committee to nominate eleven Deputies for their ap-
probation ?

Both of which were carried in the affirmative. The
eeting, and the majority which determined the questions,
e supposed to have been the most numerous and respect-
ible ever known in this City on the decision of any pub-
lick proposal. The business of the day being finished, the
friends of Freedom paraded through one of the principal
streets of the City, to the Liberty-pole, and there dis-
persed, in the most quiet and orderly manner.

New- York, March 8, 1775.
The notification of the Committee, dated March 1, in-
duced several worthy citizens, friends of Liberty and the
Constitution, to assemble at the widow De La Montagnie's,
on Friday evening, the 3d instant. The measure sug-
gested by the Committee appeared to them to be liable to
exception, as the probable tendency of it seemed to be the
introduction of a Provincial Congress. They thought,
too, that in a measure of so much importance to the com-
munity, no ■precipitate, steps should be taken ; that our fel-
low-citizens had a right to a little longer time than the
Committee had thought proper to allow them ; and they
objected to the mode of taking the sense of the City by
collecting the people together. They were apprized of
the confusion, the heats and animosity, of which such a
proceeding is generally productive ; that on such occasions
those citizens, who alone ought to be consulted, and who
alone have a right to give their voices, namely, the Frce-
holders and Freemen, were liable to insults and indignities ;
and that, as it was impossible to discriminate between them
and such as were collected on purpose to make a show of num-
ber*, they foresaw that the mode proposed was entirely in-
adequate to the purpose of taking the scnie of the City, in
which they were confirmed by the experience of last year;
when, after the Town had been kept in confusion, tumult,
and disorder, for a long time, about the election of Dele-
gates, the passing Resolves, meeting in the Fields, &tc, the
late reputable Committee of Correspondence had recourse
to a poll, which was found the only essential measure of
ascertaining what the sense of their fellow-citizens was.
With the benefit of this experience, and under the influ-
ence of sentiments founded in prudence and moderation,
as well as deference and respect for their fellow-citizens,
the friends of Constitutional Liberty could not but disap-
prove of the measure adopted by the Committee. They
proposed that the election of Delegates should be post-
poned for a time, when they intended, if, from the deter-
minations of our Assembly now sitting, and the advices
which might arrive by the expected Packet, some measure
could not be adopted with the consent of all parties, and
without division, that in such case the sense of the free-
spirited and independent Electors of this City should be
taken by a poll, by which those who had a right to give
their voices might be distinguished from such as had not,
and when the respectable citizens, in the exercise of Con-
stitutional rights and franchises, lie blended with the rab-
ble, which may always be collected by the pageantry of a
(lag, and the sound of a drum and tile. Unfortunately,
however, the hopes which might be entertained from a
calm, deliberate consideration of this measure, and thereby
of healing our divisions, and of deriving weight to our de-
terminations from the unanimity with which they might be
canied, were defeated ; for the day was fixed, and at hand.
Accordingly on Monday, at the Exchange, a vast concourse
of people were assembled ; the Chairman of the Com-

Fouktu Series. — Vol. II.

mittee put two questions, upon each of which there was a
very great division. Those who were opposed to the
question, demanded a poll, for these reasons: that the
business of the day was to take the sense of the Free-
holders and Freemen ; that none but such had a right to
give their voices, and that it was impossible to discriminate
them from those who had not such right. It is said thai
the Committee, in the evening, took up the consideration
of the proceedings of the day ; that many of them report-
ed, that the majority of the people were in favour of the
question; that they weie, therefore, authorized to proceed
to the election of Deputies to meet Deputies from the
Counties in Provincial Convention. On the contrary, it
is the opinion of a very great majority' of our fellow-citi-
zens, that no new powers would have been vested in the
Committee by the transactions of that day ; that they were
appointed in matters relative to the Association only; that
they had themselves disclaimed all other powers ; that they
had called the Freeholders and Freemen together in order
to take their sentiments ; that it was impossible, from the
nature of the thing, to determine on which side the ma-
jority was.

The weight of the objections, therefore, to the measure
of collecting the people together, appears from the event ;
and after the most disagreeable consequences which have
followed, it will still be necessary to take that, as the last
resource, which in prudence should have been the first
measure, namely, taking every Elector's vote by a regular
poll. Impartial.

Comnvttee Chamber, New. York, March 8, 1775.

Ordered, That Philip Livingston and John Jay, Es-
quires, be a Committee to wait on Mr. James Rivington,
and request of him to acquaint this Committee by whose
information, or by what authority, he published the follow-
ing paragraph in his Gazetteer of 2d March, 1775:

" Last Monday the Committee of Observation met. It
was proposed that they should nominate Delegates to the
Continental Congress, for the approbation of this City and
County ; but being opposed, the final determination of the
Committee was deferred until their next meeting:"

The said paragraph being entirely and wholly false and
groundless ; and also to inform Mr. Rivington, that in
printing the notice of the Committee of the 27th Febru-
ary, 1775, respecting the non-consumption of India Tea
being then soon to take place, it was inserted, non-impor-
tation, instead of non -consumption ; and desire him to cor-
rect the mistake in his next Paper. And that the said
Committee do make their report at their next Meeting.

Committee Chamber, New- York, March 13, 1775.

Mr. Chairman : In pursuance of an order of this Com-
mittee, of the 8th instant, we waited upon Mr. Rivington,
and requested him to acquaint this Committee, by whose
information, or by what authority he published the para-
graph mentioned in the said order, in his Gazetteer of the
2d instant. Mr. Rivington told us he published it from
common report, but would be more careful for the future,
and was willing to contradict it.* The errour Mr. Rivington
committed in printing the notice of this Committee of the
27lh February, 1775, respecting the non-consumption of
India Tea being then soon to take place, he has corrected.

Phil. Livingston,
John Jay.

Resolved, That common report is not sufficient authority
for any Printer in this City to publish any matters as facts
relative to this Committee, and tending to expose them to
the resentment of their Constituents, and the odium of the
Colonies ; for that the transactions of this Committee are
not kept secret, and any person may, with ease, know the

* The Committee have not been precise in their manner of pub-

lishing my reply ; to the above particulars, I added, " that what was

related in my Paper was credited; yet if they would furnish me with

its of their Proceedings, I might be able to print them without

errour."

I cannot think my conduct on this occasion merits so formal and
public], usion; a reprehension highly favouring of Legisla-

tive authority, seemingly calculated to aggrandize the power of the
id to disparage the political reputation of a persecuted,
and, to the everlasting disgrace of many County Committees, a pro-
scribed Printer. 3 *«•« Rivington.

New-York, March 16, 1775.

51

CORRESPONDENCE, PROCEEDINGS, &c, MARCH, 1775.

52

truth of such reports, by applying to any of the Members
of the Committee, who are numerous, and to be found in
almost every part of the City.

Ordered, That the foregoing Order, Report, and Resolve,
be forthwith printed in all the Papi

By order of the Committee,

Isaac Low, Chairman.

TO THE PEOPLE OF ENGLAND.

London, March 7, 177.5.

Some three, four, and five centuries ago, it was usual at
the close of our Parliament to distinguish them, according
to their deserts, by some particular epithet, whether good,
bad, or indifferent. In consequence of this laudable usage,
1 find one of our Parliaments stands stigmatized with the
opprobrious epithet of " ignorant ;" a second with that of
" insane;'' and a third with that of the " merciless Par-
liament."

Any one of these severe, yet just epithets, our readers
most probably will think a sufficient mark of detestation to
damn the actors and acts of such a Parliament to all pos-
terity. But what must posterity think of that Parliament,
who, at this present hour, have actually two Bills before
them, the first of which is to attaint, and consequently to
hang, draw, and quarter, one half of our American bre-
thren ; while the second is to prohibit their Fisheries, and
consequently to starve the other half to death. Should
these two Bills be enacted into two Laws, will not posterity
deservedly brand that Parliament with all the three co-
united epithets abovementioned ; and whenever they make
mention of it with horrour, as they must always do, will
they not have reason to call it " the ignorant-insane-mer-
ciless Parliament of 1775?" But in charity to the two
Houses, let us hope the King, whose most amiable prero-
gative is certainly that of " mercy," will pay some little
attention to his coronation-oath. Let us hope, as his coro-
nation-oath absolutely enjoins that " mercy" shall pervade
and govern all the acts of his own judgment, he will not
deliberately and indelibly blot his name with so foul a
stain, by lending it to either of these two merciless, unna-
tural, inhuman Bills.

After this seasonable, and I hope successful admonition
to the Royal ear, I proceed to show my countrymen,
that as the Americans have not taken any step but what is
fully guarantied by the Runnymede Treaty, so, no act of
any preceding, or of the present, or of any future Parlia-
ment can either declare or enact them to be guilty of any
one breach of the Constitution, and consequently they are
not guilty of high treason.

That the Americans have convened a Continental Con-
gress without any writs of Summons from the King ; that
they have actually called out and arrayed their Militia
without any orders from Government here at home ; and
that they are determined to resist with an armed force
certain unconstitutional Acts of the last Parliament, I rea-
dily agree with the Royalists. But, that these same Ame-
ricans are guilty of high treason against the King or King-
dom, by reason of any one, or all of these self-defensive
proceedings, I absolutely deny. For 1 neither know of,
nor ever will acknowledge, any deed of the subject to be
high treason but what is stipulated, ratified, and confirmed
to be such by some one of our four Constitutions or defi-
nitive Treaties.

Let us see, then, by what constitutional characteristicks
we may infallibly know what this crime of high treason is.

From the Norman Treaty we may learn by the several
A i tides, "De Proditione, that it is high treason against
the King where any liege subject shall insidiatc the King's
death, either by himself, or by hired assassins, or by his
own servant-.." Thus stood high treason against the King
till the Rumymede Treaty took effect, when this species
of it was enlarged so as to include not only the King's
person, but also that of his Queen, and of all their chil-
dren. " Sa va persona regis, et regina, et eorum libe-
rorum."

There is another species of high treason mentioned in
the Norman Treaty, and that is, where any liege subjects
of the King, or any liege men of some Baron, shall, either
on a Naval or Land Expedition, desert from the Command-
er-in-chief or liis associate, through fear of the war or

death, " timiditate belli vcl mortis." And this is pro-
perly called high treason, not against the King singly, but
against the King and Kingdom. I do not find any other
high treasons affecting the subject in any one of our four
Constitutions.

Agreeable then to the Constitutional Law of this Realm.
I define high treason against the King to be " an insidious
attempt or design of a liege subject (either with his o« n
hand or that of his servants) to take away the life of the
King, the Queen, or any of their children ; but it must be
done insidiously, and not otherwise."

I also define high treason against the King and Kingdom
to be " a desertion of our Sea or Land Forces, either in a
sea or land expedition, or in the day of battle ;" but not at
any other times.

Compare the present resistance of the Americans with
either of these two definitions, and I shall challenge any
man to point out any one stage of their conduct that
amounts to high treason, or, indeed, to any crime or offence
whatsoever against the British Constitution. When, for
instance, were they ever charged, or suspected of any sin-
ister attempt, or insidious design against the lives of any of
the Royal family ? Or, when were they ever known to
have deserted in the day of battle ? Can the Crown Law-
yers produce any Constitution, or even any one Act of Par-
liament that impeaches the credit or bottomness of my
definition? If not, will they submit their own definition
to the same unerring criterion and fair test ? Their best
definition, and that in which they all concurred, was, " that
to resist any Law with an armed force, is high treason."
This is an imperfect, lame definition, at best, for it only
defines what high treason is, but is entirely silent as to
what is not high treason. Besides, how can this definition of
theirs stand with the Runnymede Treaty, which impera-
tively enjoins, not barely licences, but absolutely, I say,
enjoins, the subjects, when they find any Laws made in
violation, derogation, or abrogation of any one Article of
the Runnymede Treaty, to take up arms toties quotics,
and resist the execution of such unconstitutional Laws, if
the King for the time being shall not previously, upon Pe-
tition, have repealed the same ? This is the very case at
present with the Americans. Acts of Parliament have
been made in oppression of them, and in express violation
of the Runnymede Treaty. They have petitioned against
these Acts. The King first, and afterwards the two Houses
of Parliament, have turned a deaf ear to their Petitions.
Obtaining no redress from King or Parliament, they have
recourse to Arms. " Yes — but (say the Crown Lawyers)
that very resistance, according to our definition, is high
treason." What ! shall that be high treason in any sub-
jects of the British Empire, for the doing of which they
not only are imperatively enjoined by, but have the guar-
antee and sanction of the Runnymede Treaty ? Or, is
there any Act of Parliament now in being, that makes the
American resistance to be high treason ? If not, shall an
ex-post-facto Law, and that too made in glaring violation of
Magna Charta, overrule, nay, abrogate, Magna Charta
itself? Look over your whole range of high-treason Laws,
(those excepted which I have mentioned as constitutionally
such,) and what are they, in fact, but so many Parliamentary
assurances of the people, that they will not call these trea-
son-enacting Kings to publick account for certain alarm-
ing deeds, which, though perhaps they may be strictly
legal of themselves, yet, by an overstrained interpretation,
might be adjudged to be of a doubtful, if not of a criminal
nature ? 1 scarcely recollect one high-treason Law to
have been enacted, except it was during a reign in which
the National Religion was abolished, or the New Religion
not thoroughly established, or the hereditary succession to
the Crown interrupted, or where the King upon the Throne
either was a notorious usurper, or a parricide, or had mur-
dered his uncle, his brother, his wives, or his nephews.
Let me add, too, that these temporary high-treason Acts
of Parliament have always been deemed so highly odible,
or suspicious, that they have generally been repealed by
the next immediately succeeding King, unless indeed he
stood (which hath sometimes been the case) in the same
predicament with his Royal predecessor. Let us hear,
then, no more of a definition, which absurdly tells us,
" That to resist a Law, however unconstitutional it may
bo, is nevertheless high treason." If this definition be

53

I ( >RRESPONDENCE, PROCEEDINGS, &c, MARCH. 1775.

54

admissible, I am afraid it will go so far as to make our
very Statute Books guilty of liigli treason ; for if your
readers will turn to the general index of our Statute Books,
under the article " King," they will there find the title of
one of our Acts of Parliament running in the very words
following : " Resistance of evil Administration, by War,
justified.''' The Statute to which this title refers is penned
in the old French law-language, and the translator of it
has mistranslated the word " War," for an armed force, or
a strong hand. I made this observation, because, by our
Constitution, there is an essential distinction between an
armed force and a War. The latter is applicable only
there the subjects of two different Kings, or two sover-
3ign States, are fighting against one another : by the former,
>ve understand, here in England, that the subjects of one
and the same King are fighting against each other. The
vord " Guerre," or War, is twice used in this Statute, and
in both places it speaks of War with foreign Kings ; but
whenever, in this Statute, there is any mention of the resist-
ince which the Duke of Gloucester made to the King's
Troops, it is not called a " Guerre," or War, but a com-
halement, or combat. The same nicety of expression

sedulously observed in the Runnymede Treaty ; for
whenever King John uses the word " Guerre," or " Guer-
rilla," it is clearly expressive of a war with the King of
England, and some other King or Nation : for instance,
; cum scimus quomodo mercatores terra nostra tractantur,
jui inveniuntur in terra contra nos in guerrina, si nostri
salva sint ibi, alii salvi tint in terra nostra." On the
contrary, when this same King John mentions the resist-
ance which the Barons made against his authority, he
ioes not call it by the odious name of " a War," but only
by that of " discord." As for example, " a tempore dis-
cordia jrtcne omnibus remisimus et condonavimus." This
Jistinction, I say, is essentially necessary ; for every War,
.iroperly so called, between one King and another, hath
always for its object (however that object may be modified
or disguised) either the preservation or extension of their
respective Dominions ; but that resistance which in the
Runnymede Treaty is called " discord," and in the Sta-
tute above alluded to is called " combat," hath no other
object in view but the mere preservation of the people's
rights and liberties ; besides, in the former, if the King be
taken prisoner, his life is forfeited ; in the latter, his life is
sacred; and this accounts for the justification of resistance,
for if the object itself be just, then the resistance of course
is justifiable.

I have been careful to simplify this distinction, because
it will explain a clause in the Twenty-fifth of our Third
Edward, which hath been either grossly misunderstood, or
wickedly perverted, by the King's Judges. The clause I
allude to is that by which " to levy War against our Lord
the King, within his Realm," is declared to be high treason.
And doubtless it is ; not because it is one of the special
prerogatives of the Crown to make or denounce War, but
because the King, if taken prisoner by a subject in a War
levied by a subject, would certainly meet with no quarter;
and where the " salva persona regis" is not observed,
there it would be high treason, and constitutionally so,
which is an irrefragable, indestructible, proof of the genu-
ineness and bottomness of my definition of high treason.
But treasonable levying of AVar by no means concludes
that species of resistance against the kingly authority, in
which the Americans are at this moment actually embark-
ed ; for that resistance amounts to nothing more than " a
discord," very properly so called ; for the King himself
may, whenever he pleases, restore it to harmony, by relax-
ing the over-strained, jarring, chord of Government. If,
on the contrary, he attempts to strain it one note higher,
the chord itself, in this over tension, may burst asunder.
But even then the consequences would not be fatal to him ;
for should they chance to take him prisoner, he would not
only be entitled to his " salva persona," but it would be
unconstitutional in them to put him to death.

That levying of War, properly so called, does not ex-
tend to constitutional resistance, also plainly appears from
a Proclamation in Parliament, issued by this Edward the
Third, in whose reign this same Statute of high treason
was ordained. For this blessed King, (as Sir Edward
Coke, in his exposition of this Siatute, gravely calls him,)
having dethroned and imprisoned his own father, openly

proclaims in Parliament, " that no person, great or small,
who pursued and took his father in custody, and who still
remains in custody, shall be any ways hindered, molested,
or grieved, for or by reason of such pursuit and imprisonment
of his said father." A similar Proclamation was also made,
word for word, in Parliament, by our Fourth Henry, who,
while he was only a subject, had pursued and taken into
safe custody, Richard the Second ; so that these Procla-
mations being conformant to the true spirit of the Runny-
mede Treaty, were matters of course; and the Proclama-
tions above mentioned only revived and enforced that
clause of the treaty, but enacted no new *Law, which no
Proclamation can do.

Thus, sir, I have clearly proved that the present resist-
ance of the Americans is imperatively enjoined by our
great Charter of Liberties ; that it is supported and cor-
roborated by Statutes and Proclamations, all penned in the
true spirit of our great Charter; and that it does by no
means come within the description of levying War against
the King, nor in any manner within the purview of the
Twenty-fifth of Edward the Third ; and that consequently
the resistance of the Americans cannot justly or constitu-
tionally be enacted by the present or any future Parlia-
ment to be high treason. Brecknock.

CONSTITUTIONAL SOCIETY.

London, Tuesday, March 7, 1775.

The Treasurer to the Constitutional Society reported
that he had received the following Letters, with the en-
closed sums.

To the Constitutional Society :

Gentlemen : The Collector of the Land Tax received
from me this week Seven Pounds Thirteen Shillings; and
I know it will be employed as usual, to pay prostituted
Parliament pensioners for voting away the liberty of Eng-
lishmen as well as Americans. I send you Fifteen Pounds,
and for every Pound that is taken from me for the bad pur-
poses of the present plans of Administration, I will hereaf-
ter regularly send you Two, to be applied in defence of
American Liberty, and I hope others will do the same. 1
have no objections to pay Taxes in support of an honest
Government ; but will voluntarily pay double against an
infamous cabal, who are openly destroying the free Con-
stitution of this Country.

I am, gentlemen, your most obedient servant,

S ' / T. R.

To Richard Oliver, Esq.:

Sir : I saw in the Newspapers that the Constitutional
Society had given a Hundred Pounds to the distressed in-
habitants of Boston. If the trifle I send herewith is thought
worthy of acceptance by the Society, I beg they would
apply it to the same purpose : if not, I desire it may be
returned to the person who will bring the corner that is
torn off from this letter. Most of the gentlemen in my
neighbourhood are desirous to assist them ; and if I know
it will be acceptable, I will take care to forward their sub-
scriptionsUo you. Any message given to the person who
will bring the torn corner of this letter will be faithfully
delivered to, sir, your humble servant,

(With Twenty Pounds.) J- J-

To Richard Oliver, Esq. :

Sir : Enclosed I send you a Bank note, of Ten Pounds,
which I desire you to pay into the Constitutional Society.
I mean it towards the relief and assistance of the distressed
inhabitants of Boston, in America, and beg that it may
make part of the next vote of supply from that Society, in
favour of the Americans. Their cause is the cause of
England.

* Tliis Parliamentary Declaration divides treason into two distinct
branches, namely, liigli and petit treason. But it is to be observed,
the tarda and Commons most carefully and skilfully avoided to give
their accord to that branch of it which respects high treason, and only
gave their simple accord to that branch of it which specifies the
offences of petit treason ; so that this Statute is of force only so far as
il declares what offences are petit treason, and abates, (as tho Lawyers
phrase it,) as to that part of it which declaratively specifies what par-
ticular crimes are high treason, and consequently loaves that heinous
crime upon its proper constitutional basis. And to what particular
crimes high treason is restricted by tho Constitution, I have sufficient-
ly explained and ascertained in my two definitions of it before lnen-

55

CORRESPONDENCE, PROCEEDINGS, fee, MARCH, 1775.

56

What have we at home but to resist a victorious Army,
which will have been tried and modeled there, and de-
voted to the Crown, returning to England from the con-
quest of America ? All is at stake '. The single question
is", whether the King of Great Britain shall, in future, be
as absolutely despotic!; in every part of the Empire, as a
late Act of Parliament appointed him to be forever in
(\inada1 If despotism had not been the favourite foi in
of Government with the proposers of that Bill, they would
not have established that form, when they had it at their
option which to appoint. After the conquest over freedom
in America, your Army will give them the same option in
England; and we already know their inclinations.

1 therefore set my foot here, and have as many Thou-
sands as I now send Pounds, which 1 shall be willing to
dedicate to the same purpose, if the situation of the Ame-
ricans shall continue to require, and their conduct to de-
serve, support.

I am, sir, with the greatest esteem for you and the gen-
tlemen of the Society, your humble servant, H. B. J.

To the Constitutional Society :

When the common rights of Englishmen are invaded
in any part of the British Dominions, my mite shall never
be wanting to assist those who struggle like men for the
rights of men. This Twenty Pounds and my prayers, is
all I have to give. May God prosper the honest efforts of
the Americans, and make them at length the happy instru-
ments of bringing to justice those traitors who have long
trampled upon us here with impunity. And may God
bless you, gentlemen, for the honest example you have set
us. William Finch.

The Treasurer likewise reported that he had received a
Ten Pound Bank note and Four Guineas, enclosed in a
cover, directed to him with these words, " To the Bos-
tonians."

EXTRACT OF A LETTER FROM LONDON, DATED MARCH 7,
1775.

Yesterday, No. Ill of a periodical Paper, called " The
Crisis," and a pamphlet with the same title, containing
Thoughts on American Affairs, were burnt by the com-
mon hangman, at Westminster Hall gate, pursuant to an
unanimous order of the House of Lords and Commons.
As soon as the condemned papers were burnt, a man
threw into the fire the " Address of both Houses of Par-
liament to His Majesty, declaring the Bostonians in actual
Rebellion;" likewise the Address of the Bishops and
Clergy assembled in Convocation. The Sheriffs were much
hissed for attending, and the populace diverted themselves
with throwing the fire at each other.

And this day, at twelve o'clock, the Sheriffs attended
at the Royal Exchange for the above purpose ; but as soon
as the fire was lighted, it was put out, and dead dogs and
cats thrown at the Officers ; a fire was then made in Corn-
hill, and the executioner did his duty. Sheriff Hart was
wounded in the wrist, and Sheriff Plorner in the breast, by
a brick-bat ; Mr. Gates, the City Marshal, was dismount-
ed, and with much difficulty saved his life.

No less thari three publications, under the name of The
Crisis, have come under Parliamentary inquiry ; the first
in the year 1714, written by Sir Richard Steele, a Mem-
ber of Parliament, for which he was expelled the House ;
and the two which were burnt at the Royal Exchange yes-
terday.

HOUSE OF LORDS.

Monday, February 27, 1775.
Complaint was made to the House of a printed Paper,
intituled, "The Crisis, No. Ill, Saturday, February 4,
1775, printed and published for the Authors, by T.'ll.
Shaw, Fleet Street, opposite Anderton's Coffee-House."
The said Paper was read by the Clerk.
The Earl of Radnor moved to " Resolve, that the Pa-
per called 'The Crisis, No. Ill,' is a false, daring, infa-
mous, seditious, and treasonable libel on His Majesty, de-
signed to alienate the affections of His Majesty's subjects
from Ins Royal Person and Government, and to disturb
the Peace of the Kingdom."

Then an amendment was proposed to be made to the
said motion, by leaving out the word "treasonable."

Which being objected to, after debate, the question was
put, '• Whether the word 'treasonable' shall stand part of
the motion i"

And it was resolved in the affirmative.

Then it was moved, "To agree to the said Resolution,

it first proposed."

Which being objected to, the question was put there-
upon :

And it was resolved in the affirmative.

Ordered, That His Majesty's Attorney General do pro-
secute the Printer and Authors of the said Paper.

HOUSE OF COMMONS.

Monday, February 27, 1775.

A complaint being made to the House of a printed Pa-
per, intituled, "The Crisis, No. Ill, dated Saturday, Feb-
ruary 1, J775, printed and published lor the Authors, by
T. //'. Skaiu, in Fleet Street,"

The said Paper was delivered in at the Clerk's table,
and read.

Resolved, nemine contradicenie, That the said Paper is
a false, scandalous, and seditious libel, highly and unjustly
reflecting on His Majesty's sacred person, and tending to
alienate the affections, and inflame the minds, of His .Ma-
jesty's subjects against his person and Government.

Resolved, nemine contradicenie, That one of the said
printed Papers be burnt by the hands of the common hang-
man in New-Palace Yard, Westminster, on Monday, the
6th day of March next, at one of the clock in the after-
noon ; and that another of the said printed Papers be burnt
by the hands of the common hangman, before the Royal
Exchange in London, on Tuesday, the 7th day of March
next, at the same hour ; and that the Sheriffs of London
and Middlesex do attend at the said times and places re-
spectively, and cause the same to be burnt there accord-
ingly.

THE CRISIS.

-NO. I.

To the People of England and America:

Friends and Fellow-subjects : It is with the great-
est propriety 1 address this paper to you. It is in your
defence, at this great, this important crisis, I take the pen
in hand. A crisis big with the fate of the most glorious
Empire known in the records of time; and by your firm-
ness and resolution only, it can be saved from destruction.
By your firmness and resolution, you may preserve to your-
selves, your immediate offspring, and latest posterity, all
the glorious blessings of freedom given by Heaven to un-
deserving mortals; by your supineness and pusillanimity,
you will entail on yourselves, your children, and millions
yet unborn, misery and slavery.

It is in your defence I now stand forth to oppose the
most sanguinary and despotick Court that ever disgraced
a free Country. It is in your defence I now unsheath the
sword of Justice, to oppose the most profligate and aban-
doned Administration that ever showed the weakness, or
abused the confidence, of a Prince. It is in your defence
1 now stand forth, with a firmness and resolution becom-
ing an Englishman determined to be free, to oppose every
arbitrary and every unconstitutional Act, of a venal and
corrupt majority, smuggled into the present new-fangled
Court Parliament, through the villany of Lord North, and
purchased with the pubhek money, to betray their trust,
enslave the people, subvert the Protestant religion, and
destroy the glory, the honour, interest, and commerce,
both foreign and domestick, of England and America ;
and all this villanous sacrifice of a great Empire, a brave
people, and the glorious truths of Heaven, to ambitious
views, and to gratify the mean vindictive spirit of one, as-
sisted by a numerous train of deputy tyrants, whose sole
aim has been to trample under foot the sacred rights of
mankind, and the English Constitution.

It is in your defence, and in defence of the liberties of
my Country, that I now stand forth, with a fixed resolu-
tion, to oppose, and show to the world, unawed by fear,
the dangerous tendency of every act of lawless power,
whether it shall proceed from the King, the Lords, or the
Commons.

57

CORRESPONDENCE, PROCEEDINGS, &c, MARCH, 1775.

58

1 will endeavour, in conjunction with my fellow-labourer
in this great work, to rescue the liberty of the Press (that
bulwark of freedom) from the ruin with which it is now
threatened, by special juries of Middlesex, and the arbitra-
ry decisions of a Scotch Chief Justice, the glorious advo-
cates for despotick sway. The heavy lines and cruel im-
prisonment of the two WoodfdUs, without even the ap-
pearance of guilt, and contrary to the intention of the Jury,
will be faithfully recorded by the pen of truth, and (ill
many pages in the black catalogue of Murray's crimes.
It shall be my endeavour, in this degenerate age, to revive
the dying embers of freedom, and rouse my countrymen in
England from that lethargiok stale of supineness and inat-
tention, in which they seem to sleep at this time of national
danger, when a mighty Kingdom, and all the dearest rights
of men are hastening to their ruin; that they may yet
stand high on the roll of fame, equal with their brave and
virtuous brethren in America, who are now struggling in
the glorious cause of liberty, against the cruel oppressions
and the destructive designs of exalted villains, whose ac-
tions will be transmitted to posterity in characters of blood,
and their names forever branded with eternal marks of
infamy; while America will remain the glory and admira-
tion of the world, and be held in the highest veneration to
the end of time. Let not the long envied glory of Bri-
tain, O my countrymen ! be eclipsed by the virtuous ac-
tions of the Americans in the new world. Our danger is
the same ; their cause is our cause ; with the constitutional
rights of America, must fall the liberties of England. Let
us, then, show ourselves equal to them in virtue, courage,
firmness, and resolution ; and as they have done, prove to
the world we are alike enemies to tyranny, and that we
never will be slaves to one, nor to a majority of five hun-
dred and fifty-eight tyrants. We will strain every nerve,
and brave every danger, to stimulate our countrymen on
this side the Allantick, to a noble exertion of their rights
as freemen ; to show them the danger, as well as the infa-
my, of remaining quiet spectators of their own destruction ;
and to remove that dark cloud of slavery, which now ob-
scures the glorious light of freedom ; and but for the vir-
tue of our forefathers, would, ages ago, have overwhelmed
this Kingdom, like the States around us, in a long, a last-
ing night of misery and ruin.

Upon this plan, and with these principles, we set out,
and intend to proceed, that the present (if not too far de-
generated) and future generations may enjoy, undiminished,
all the blessings of liberty. To accomplish this end we w ill
risk every thing that is dear to man, and brave both Royal
and Ministerial vengeance, to preserve from ruin, if possi-
ble, the natural rights of mankind, the sacred Constitution
of the British Empire, and the freedom of our Country.

Agreeable to our motto, we shall ever think " liberty
with danger, is preferable to servitude with security." We
should glory in the smiles of our Sovereign, but will never
purchase them at the expense of our liberty ; nor will we
ever give up, but with our lives, the right to expose, and
publickly display, in all its hideous forms, the cruel despo-
tism of tyrants. We can conceive no reason why the laws
and religion of England should be sported with, and tram-
pled under foot, by a Prince of the House of Brunswick,
rather than by one of the House of Stuart. Surely, upon
every principle of justice, reason, and common sense, what-
ever is tyranny and murder in one man, is equally so in
another ; and if it is just to oppose and resist one, it is as
just to oppose and resist the other. It is not a name, nor
an office, however important, that can or ought to bring
respect and reverence to the possessor, while he acts be-
low, and is unworthy of them. Folly and villany ought
to have no asylum ; nor can titles sanctify crimes, though,
in our days, they protect criminals. A royal, right hon-
ourable, or a right reverend robber, is the most dangerous
robber, and consequently the most to be detested.

Our modern advocates for villany and slavery, have
found out a new way of arguing and convincing the judg-
ments of men ; they make nice distinctions without a differ-
ence, and tell the world what was tyranny in the time of
Charles the First, is not tyranny in the reign of George
the Third ; and to this they add a long catalogue of virtues,
which he never possessed. They say he is pious; that his
chief aim is to render his subjects a happy, great, and free
people. These, and many other falsehoods equally wick-

ed and absurd, they endeavour to instil into the minds of
the too easily deluded English. These, and such like arti-
fices, have ever been made use of in the reign of arbitrary
Kings, to deceive the people, and make them, with more
ease, and to chains well polished, submit their necks, anil
even reverence and adore the hand that rivets them. Thus
do tyrants succeed, and the galling yoke of slavery, so
much complained of by almost every Nation in the world,
becomes a crime of the first magnitude in the people,
through their own credulity and vile submission. Truth, in
spite of all the false colouring of venal writers, speaks a
different language, and declares, in opposition to the pen
of falsehood, that bloodshed and slaughter, violence and
oppression, Popery and lawless power, characterize the
present reign ; and we will defy even the pensioned John-
son, after the closest examination of the two reigns, to lei 1
which is the best. Charles broke his coronation oath, butch-
ered his subjects, made ten thousand solemn promises he
never intended to perform, and often committed perjury :
(but these are no crimes in a King, for all Kings have ;i
divine right to be devils.) He tried to overturn the Con-
stitution by force, but found his mistake when it was too
late, and that even royal villany does not always succeed,
and when the just vengeance of Heaven overtook him, he
saw (though he would not believe it before, and imagined
he had a divine right to shed human blood) that the same
power which raised him up could pull him down. The
present Sovereign, not willing to make a figure in history
without a head, and being more mild and gentle, just and
good, has improved upon the plan, and is now tearing up
the Constitution by the roots, under the form of law. This
method of proceeding is certainly much safer, and more
judicious, as well as just ; for what right can an English-
man have to complain, when he is legally made a slave by
Act of Parliament. How wicked ! how rebellious ! must
the Americans be, and what levelling principles must they
possess, to resist the divine right of the Lords and Com-
mons, under the sanction of a divine Act of Parliament.
sent from Heaven to plunder, butcher, starve, or enslave
them, just as it shall come into their divine heads, or the
heads of their divine instruments ; and when once they
have carried this divine law into execution, according to
their righteous intention, we shall soon see, on this side the
Atlantick, that they have the same divine right to use us in
the same merciful and divine manner. This is but the first
divine step of a diabolical plan for shedding human blood,
l educing an industrious, brave, flourishing, and free people,
from a state of affluence to that of misery, beggary, and
slavery ; and nothing but a resolution in the people here,
will be able to prevent the next divine step of the same
plan, from laying in ruins all the rights of the British, with
those of the American, world.

The altar of despotism is erected in America, and we
shall be the next victims to lawless power ; all the hor-
rours of slavery now stare us in the face ; our religion
subverted ; freedom, law, and right, artfully undermined ;
the Roman Catholick religion not tolerated but establish-
ed ; a majority of the House of Commons and the House
of Lords mere creatures of the King ; in short, every
engine of oppression and arbitrary power is at work, to
accomplish our ruin.

O, rny countrymen, that we could but inspire you with
noble sentiments of liberty, rouse you to a just sense of
your immediate danger, and make you feel, sensibly feel,
all the blessings derived from freedom, the natural right of
every man, but more particularly of Englishmen; it is our
birthright, our inheritance ; it was handed down to us by
our ancestors, and sealed often with their blood. Let us,
then, in justice to them, to ourselves, and to posterity, make
a noble constitutional stand, in conjunction with our noble
and spirited, but suffering, fellow-subjects in America,
against the present plan, long fixed by the minions of pow-
er to destroy it, and overturn the Constitution, a Constitu-
tion ten thousand times superiour to any system ever de-
vised by the Greeks or Romans.

At such a time as this, when the merciless, the relent-
less hand of tyranny is tearing out the vitals of freedom,
sapping the foundations of publick security, making a
mockery of publick justice, and destroying all the envied
rights of Britain, and the truths of Heaven ; — I say, at
such a time, to be inattentive or inactive, is infamy; and

59

CORRESPONDENCE, PROCEEDINGS, &c, MARCH, 11

60

lie who can tamely see his Country upon the brink of ruin,
without putting out bis arm, and lending a helping hand
to rescue her from destruction, must be an abandoned
wretch, a disgrace to the name of English man, and to bis
Country.

THE CRISIS. NO. II.

A Moody Court, a bloody Ministry, and a bloody Parlia-
ment.

The sudden and unexpected dissolution of the last ruin-
ous Parliament, gave a just and general alarm to the whole
Nation ; and we may search in vain the voluminous pages
of Grecian, Roman, or English history, to find such
another plan of premeditated villany, for destroying, at one
grand stroke of Royal and Ministerial policy, all the rights
of a free people. Lord North, engendered in the womb
of Hell ; raised by the fostering hand of infernal spirits ;
and possessing principles which have eclipsed all the glories
of his satanick parents, had the effrontery to declare, in
the face of the House of Commons, and the world, but a
few day before the recess of the late Parliament, that they
should meet again early in October for the despatch of
business. When he uttered the falsehood, it was suspected
by many, and he well knew it had been determined that
they should be dissolved, although the precise time was
not fixed. On the 16th day of September, 1774, a notice
was published in the Gazette for the last Parliament to
meet on the 15th of November; eleven days had not
elapsed before a Proclamation appeared for its dissolution,
and calling a new Parliament. Who can guard against de-
ception, artifice, and villany, when stamped with Royal
authority ? The very thought of an honest House of
Commons struck terrour into the guilty soul of Lord North,
the diabolical minion of Royal favour, and instrument of
Royal vengeance ; nay, even the King, virtuous as he is,
had his fears; and in order to secure their own creatures
and dependants, or, in other words, to have the old Parlia-
ment revived, and smuggle a majority of venal, abandoned
miscreants, who would deny their God, or sell their souls for
money, into the present House of Commons, Lord North
sent letters to all his friends, that they might be prepared ;
and it was known in the most distant parts of England,
and even the time of election fixed in several Boroughs in
Cornwall, some days before the Parliament was dissolved.
This is a truth which Lord North, with all his consum-
mate impudence, cannot deny.

The Ministerial hacks were again set to work, to fabri-
cate lies, and publish ihem in the Newspapers, to elude
and deceive the electors, that little or no opposition might
be made to the tools of Government. One report said
the dissolution of Parliament was owing to some disagree-
able advices received from America ; and that our virtuous
King, with his still more virtuous Ministers, intended to adopt
some conciliating measures with respect to the Colonies ;
and that it would betray a weakness in the King to let the
same Parliament meet again to repeal those Acts which
they but a few months before passed. Another report,
equally true, asserted it was on account of intelligence re-
ceived from the North, of a very alarming nature. And a
third, that it was ocoasioned by a difference between the
French and English Ministry, which rendered such a step
necessary, as there was great reason to believe we should
soon be involved in War, and that it would be exceedingly
improper to have the Nation put in a ferment by a gene-
ral election at so critical a time as that, and when the assist-
ance of Parliament would be particularly wanted. A fourth
report was, that Lord Chatham and his friends would be
immediately taken into favour, and that there was to be an
entire change in the Ministry. By these low artifices and
Ministerial lies, the people of England were lulled into a
slate of supineness, and even made to lend a helping hand
to complete their own ruin.

The subsequent part of this paper will unravel the dia-
bolical scheme. Lord North saw a powerful opposition
forming in every part of England: he was fearful of asso-
ciations— he dreaded a Solemn League and Covenant, « hich
he was certain the people would have entered into for the
preservation of their rights and liberties, before next May,
the time when the Parliament would have been dissolved
of course : he trembled for the event, conscious of his own

villany, and that his head had been long forfeited to the
justice of his Country; he determined to take the electors
by surprise, to put them oil* their guard, and rob them of
time, that no opposition might be made to his creatures ;
and the people being prevented from fixing upon men of
honest, independent principles, to whom they might with
safety, delegate the important, the sacred trust of represen-
tation.

Lord North communicated his fears to the King; painted
the daring rebellious spirit of the Americans ; and told him
that the people here were as disloyal and disaffected, and
that hints had been thrown out in the publick prints, of
plans forming in different parts of England for keeping
out of the new Parliament most of his friends, and unless
prevented by some well-concerted scheme, there was but
too much reason to believe, from the spirit of the people,
that they would succeed ; an event, says this traitor, much
feared, and greatly dreaded by every well-wisher to your
person and Government, should it ever take place ; and
there is a Country party, or a majority of mock Patriots in
the House ef Commons, who are enemies to all order and
Government — you must be reduced to the most degrading
situation ; indeed, your present friends will then be unable
to gave you any assistance ; and instead of the power
being in your hands, it will then be in the hands of the
people ; and you will be under the disgraceful necessity of
giving your assent to the repeal of every Act which has
been lately passed for the purpose of raising a revenue,
and enforcing a due obedience to your authority. In short,
you will be a King without power, and subject to the con-
trol of a few demagogues for liberty — the dregs of man-
kind— and a common rabble who will always support them ;
nay, it may even endanger the security of your Throne ;
for what will not a hot-headed Parliament do, with whom
the voice of the people can have any weight. The plan
for reducing the Americans, and making them dependant
on your will, must be crushed ; they will triumph in the
victory obtained over the just power of Parliament, and
your prerogative ; your faithful servants will be compelled
to leave you, and you will be without a real friend to ad-
vise with. If your Majesty can get a majority of your
friends rechosen in the new Parliament, you will be able
to raise what money you please, with their assistance ; you
will then be able to keep your present Ministers, and pre-
serve them from the resentment (which has been incurred
by serving you) of an enraged rabble, who are made to
believe, through the licentiousness of the press, that they
labour under a load of accumulated grievances. You will
then be able to trample under foot faction, sedition, and
rebellion throughout your Dominions, and to carry every
thing before you, agreeable to your Royal pleasure. With
the power of Parliament, and your Majesty's firmness and
perseverance, you may bring England, and America into
a proper state of subjection to your will. To accomplish
this, it will be necessary to prorogue the Parliament to
some future day, then to meet, and immediately after call
a Council and dissolve them ; in the mean time, your
friends may be made acquainted with the determination,
and be prepared for the election, before any opposition can
possibly be made, or the people know any thing of the
matter.

The King, firmly resolved on the people's ruin, caressed
his villanous minion, admired the plan formed for our de-
struction, and, drunk with the prerogative, he sucked in
the baneful advice, and pursued it.

Thus the present Parliament was smuggled; and thus, in
a most shameful, unprecedented, artful, and sudden man-
ner, was the last House of Commons dissolved by the King.
to answer his own and his Minister's wicked, tyrannical,
and bloody designs against the people and Constitution of
this Kingdom. Such an instance of an infamous exertion
of the Royal prerogative, and under the like circumstances,
is not to be found in the history of England; such an in-
jury and insult was never before offered to a free people,
and never ought to be forgiven. It was a piece of Hano-
verian treachery, baseness, and ingratitude, which has far
exceeded all the artful villany and low cunning of the dis-
carded Stuarts. His Majesty, (Heaven protect so much
goodness,) out of a tenderness to the Constitution, could
not make so bad a use of his prerogative, five years back,
as to dissolve the same Parliament, when their iniquitous

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62

proceedings, and their violations of justice had roused the
indignation of the people, and he was requested to do it

by upwards of eighty thousand freeholders, (signed,) and
eneral voice of the whole Nation. But in 1774 he
got the better of that tenderness ; and to answer his own
purposes, could exert the Royal prerogative, which he had
absolutely refused to his subjects in the haughty terms of
a despot, with no other view but to overturn the Consti-
tution of the British Empire, in England and America,
and destroy or enslave the people.

His Majesty, his minions, and instruments of slaughter,
are now safe in robbing the people of their property, by
shameful and iniquitous taxes, in time of peace; safe in
their subversion of the Protestant Religion ; safe and suc-
cessful in their cruel plan for starving the honest and in-
dustrious inhabitants, and destroying the trade of the
Town of Boston, in America, and the Commerce of Eng-
land; safe so far in their attempt to destroy the lives.
rights, liberties, and privileges of millions ; I say they are
sale in all these violations of, and depredations on our
National security, and natural rights — because we are
tame.

the crisis. — NO. III.
To the King :

Sir: To follow you regularly through every step of a
fourteen years' shameful and inglorious reign, would be
a task as painful as disagreeable, and far exceed the bounds
of this paper: But we are called upon by the necessity of
the times, the measures you are pursuing, by every prin-
ciple of justice and self-preservation, and by the duty we
owe to God and our Country, to declare our sentiments
(with a freedom becoming Englishmen) on some of those
dreadful transactions and oppressions which the Kingdom
has laboured under since the glory and lustre of England's
Crown was doomed to fade upon your brow; and to point
out to you, Sir, your own critical and dangerous situation.

Sir, it is not your rotten troop, in the present House of
Commons ; it is not your venal, beggarly, pensioned
Lords; it is not your polluted, canting, prostituted Bench
of Bishops ; it is not your whole set of abandoned Minis-
ters ; nor all your army of Scotch cut-throats, that can
protect you from the People's rage, when driven by your
oppressions, and, until now, unheard of cruelties, to a state
of desperation.

The dayr, we fear, is not far distant, when you will have
reason, too much reason, to wish you had acted like a father,
and not like a tyrant; when you will be bound to curse
those traitors, those exalted villains, who now, in the face
of day, without a blush, you can be base enough to call
your friends. Be assured, Sir, your danger is great, amidst
all the fancied security ; and it will be impossible for them
to preserve you from the just resentment of an enraged,
long abused, and much injured Nation. Should that day
ever come, (but Heaven avert the stroke,) where can you
hide yourself from the tenfold vengeance of a brave and
mighty people, with law, justice, Heaven, and all their
sacred truths on their side?

Then, like the wounds that bleed afresh, will be brought
to their minds your barbarous and unprovoked massacre
in St. George's Fields ; when men and women were indis-
criminately and inhumanly slaughtered, to gratify what
would have disgraced even your footman — a pitiful re-
venge! Then, Sir, they will remember with horrour and
indignation, the letter of thanks, sent from the Secretary
at War, by your order, to the Oflicer on duty, the 10th of
May, 1768, (the day of carnage,) and likewise your pen-
sioning and screening the murderers from the punishment
of the law. Then, Sir, they will remember, the horrid
plan laid at Brentford, for destroying the right of election ;
or in the most savage manner to take away the lives of the
Freeholders of Middlesex, which was (to make use of a
word from your merciful Royal dictionary,) effectually car-
ried into execution, and several people killed ; to this plan,
Sir, formed by Proctor and your minions, you must have
beep privy, as the event afterwards sufficiently proved.
Then, Sir, they will remember the mean, low, and crimi-
nal subterfuge you had recourse to, to dispense with the
laws, and set aside the just verdict of an honest jury, to

pardon those hired ruffians, Belf and McQuirk, convicted

upon the clearest evidence, of premeditated murder. Then,
Sir, they will remember the insults they received, and the
ignoble answers you gave to the remonstrances and peti-
tions, delivered by them to the Throne, praying the disso-
lution of Parliament. Nor will they forget, Sir, the infer-
nal plan for smuggling the present House of Common-,
and destroying all the rights of this free Country. In a
word, Sir, these and every other despotick and bloody
transaction of your reign will rise fresh in their minds, if
they should be driven by your encouragement of Poperv,
your persecutions, your oppressions, your violations of all
justice, your treachery, and your weakness, into a fatal
and unnatural Civil War in America; I say, they will rise
fresh in their minds, and stimulate them to deeds of glory ;
nay, they may pursue with implacable revenge the author
of all their miseries.

The people, Sir, with a candour and indulgence peculiar
to Englishmen, passed over the injuries and insults in the
first part of your reign, or kindly laid the blame at the
door of your Ministers ; but it is now evident to the whole
world, that there was a plan formed by Lord Bute and
yourself, either before, or immediately after you came to
the Crown, for subverting the British Constitution in
Church and State ; which, to our grief, with indefatigable
pains and too much success, Lord Bute's tools, and vour
infernal minions, have carried into execution ; therefore it
no longer remains to determine who is now the greatest
criminal in England.

Consider, Sir, if, through the late and present iniquitous
measures, and an obstinate resolution in your Majesty to
pursue them, the sword is forced to be drawn in America,
it cannot remain long unsheathed in England. We hope
there is some virtue here; and we entertain a better opin-
ion of our countrymen than to believe they are so far
degenerated as to tamely see a mercenary army of sol-
diers, who are at all times a terrour to the peaceable inha-
bitants of every free State, butcher their brethren and
fellow-subjects in America, because they are determined
to defend their own rights and the British Constitution. I
say they never will tamely see that, without putting out a
helping hand, and sharing with them the glory of a deci-
sive victory over tyranny, and all the agents of the infernal
monarch of the dark regions of hell, who would enslave
the world.

Should you, Sir, still pursue the tyrannical measures,
only to gratify a mean vindictive spirit, and be the author
of such dreadful mischiefs, O, we shudder at the thought,
the peeple will then perhaps treat you with as little cere-
mony, as little respect, and as little mercy, as you and
your minions have them ; for, Sir, whenever the State
is convulsed by civil commotions, and the Constitution
totters to its centre, the Throne of England must shake
with it ; a Crown will then be no security, and at one stroke
all the gaudy trappings of royalty may be laid in the dust;
at such a time of dreadful confusion and slaughter, when
the son's weapon drinks the father's blood, and we see the
ruffian's blade reeking from a brother's heart ; when rage
is burning in the breasts of Englishmen, provoked by
wrongs not to be borne by men, all distinctions must
cease, the common safety and the rights of mankind will
be the only objects in view, while the King and the pea-
sant must share one and the same fate, and perhaps fall
undistinguished together.

Let these things, Sir, be well weighed ; tremble for the
event; drive those traitors from your breast, who now sur-
round you; let the just and honest have your confidence ;
and once more make your people happy, great and free ;
be not the instrument of their destruction ; consider the
solemn and sacred oath you made at your coronation to
protect your subjects in all their rights and liberties, and
the Protestant Religion as by Law established : consider,
Sir, what a perversion of all right and justice that must be
(besides the heinous crime of perjury,) when, instead (if
being their protector, you become their destroyer.

Your plan, Sir, for bringing the Colonies by force of
arms into a state of subjection to your will, is cruel, bloody,
and (I hope) impracticable; it is repugnant to every prin-
ciple of humanity, justice, and sound policy, and the natural
rights of mankind ; it is the foulest disgrace to you. and

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CORRESPONDENCE, PROCEEDINGS, &c, MARCH, 171

6-1

will reflect eternal infamy on your reign and memory as
ilte Sovereign and father of a free people. It is such a
plan of encroaching violence and lawless power, as the
icons- nv\ never ought, nor ever will, submit

to; it is such a scheme (or enslaving, or destroying the
human raw ry man ought to execrate and condemn,

and to oppose even till be perish.

.Men. Sir, at three thousand miles distance, must think it
extremely hard to work, toil, and run hazards, only to
support the infamous luxury of high pampered Lords, a
rotten Court, and your tribe of venal Senators, minions,
pimp?, and parasites — the pests of society; ami to he taxed
and mulcted by them at their pleasure. All nature. Sir,
revolts even at the idea of such a state of human misery.

Force, Sir, can never be used effectually to answer the
end, without destroying the Colonies themselves. Liberty
and encouragement are necessary to keep them together ;
and violence will hinder both. Any body of Troops, con-
siderable enough to awe them, keep them in subjection,
and under the direction of a needy Scotch Governour,
sent only to be an instrument of slaughter, and to make
his fortune, would soon put an end to planting, and leave
the country to you, Sir, and your merciless plunderers
only ; and if it did not, they would starve the inhabitants
and eat up all the profit of the Colonies. On the contrary,
a tew prudent laws, Sir, (hut you seem to be a stranger to
prudence as well M to justice and humanity,) and a little
prudent conduct, (that, too, has long been despaired of by
the Kingdom,) would soon give us far the greatest share
of the riches of all America : perhaps drive other Nations
out of it, or into our Colonies for shelter.

If violent methods be not used (at this time) to prevent
it, your Northern Colonies, Sir, must constantly increase in
people, wealth, and power; their inhabitants are con-
siderably more than doubled since the Revolution ; and in
less than a century must become powerful States ; and
the more powerful, the more people will tlock thither.
There are so many exigencies in all States, so many foreign
wars and domestic disturbances, that these Colonies can
seldom want opportunities, if they watch for them, to do
what you, Sir, might be extremely sorry for — throw off
their dependance on the Mother Country; therefore, Sir,
it should be your first and greatest care, that it shall never
be their interest to act against that of their native Coun-
try ; an evil that can no otherwise be averted, than by
keeping them fully employed in such trades as will increase
their own, as well as our wealth ; for, Sir, there is too much
reason to fear, if you don't find employment for them, they
may find some for you. Withdraw, then, Sir, from Ame-
rica, your armed ruffians, and make a full restoration of
the people's rights ; let them tax themselves, and enjoy
their property unviolated by the hand of tyranny. Thus,
Sir, the subsequent part of your reign may yet be happy
and glorious. May the compact between you and the
people be no more invaded ; may you be speedily recon-
ciled to the just demands of the Colonies ; may Lord Bute,
Lord Mansfield, Lord JSorth, and all your Majesty's in-
famous minions, who would precipitate you and the King-
dom into ruin, answer with their heads (and soon) for their
horrid crimes; and may the succession in your Majesty's
Royal House, and the Religion, Laws, Rights and Liber-
ties, of the subject, go hand in hand down to all posterity,
until this globe shall he reduced to its original chaos, and
time be swallowed up in eternity.

THE CRISIS. NO. IV.

To the Conspirators against the Liberties of mankind, at
St. James's, in St. Stephen's Chapel, the Houst of

Lords, or amongst the Bench of Bishops.

The steady and uniform perseverance in a regular plan
of depotism, since the commencement of this reign, makes
n evident to the meanest capacity, that a design was formed
(and it has with too much success been carried into execu-
tion) for subverting the Religion. Laws, and Constitution
of this Kingdom, and to establish upon the ruins of pub-
hek liberty, an arbitrary system of Government: in a
word, the destruction of this Kingdom will soon be efll
by a Prince of the Mouse of Brunswick.

The bloody Resolution has passed the House of Com-
mons and the House of Lords, to address our present
humane, gentle Sovereign, to give directions for enforcing
the cruel and unjust edicts of the last Parliament against
the Americans. His Majesty, possessing principles which
nothing can equal but the goodness of his heart, will no
doubt give immediate orders for carrying effectually into
lit ion the massacre in America ; especially as he is to
he supported in polluting the earth with blood with the
lives and fortunes of his faithful butchers — the Lords and
Commons. Would to Clod they only were to fall a sacii-
fice in this unnatural Civil War.

The day of trial is at band ; it is time to prove the vir-
tue, and rouse the spirit of the people of England ; the
prospect is too dreadful, it is too melancholy to admit of
farther delay.

The Lord Mayor of London ought immediately to call
a Common-Hall for the purpose of taking the sense of his
fellow-citizens at this alarming crisis, upon presenting a
remonstrance to the Throne, couched in terms that might
do honour to the City, as the first and most powerful in
the world, and to them as men determined to be free ; in
terms that might strike conviction into his Majesty's bi
and terrour into the souls of bis minions. This is not a
time for compliments, nor should tyrants, or the instruments
of tyranny ever be complimented.

The Merchants of London, it is to be hoped, and the
whole commercial interest of England, will exert them-
selves upon this great occasion, by sending to the Throne
spirited and pointed remonstrances, worthy of English-
men; by noble and generous subscriptions; and in every
other manner, give all the relief, and all the assistance in
their power, to their oppressed and injured fellow-subjects
in America.

Let them heartily join the Americans, and see whether
tyranny and lawless power, or reason, justice, Heaven,
truth, and liberty, will prevail.

Let them, together with the gentlemen of landed pro-
perty, who must greatly suffer by this unnatural Civil War,
make a glorious stand against the enemies of publiok free-
dom, and the constitutional rights of the Colonies ; for,
with the ruin of America, must be involved that of Eng-
land.

Let them, in plain terms, declare their own strength,
and the power of the people; a power that has hitherto
withstood the united efforts of fraud and tyranny ; a power
which raises them to a Throne ; and when unworthy of
their delegated trust, can pull them down.

Let them declare to the world they will never be so base
and cowardly as quietly to see any part of their fellow-
subjects butchered or enslaved, either in England or Ame-
rica, to answer the purpose of exalted villain- ; and by
that means become the detested instruments of their own
destruction.

Let them declare to the world they are not yet ripe for
slavery ; that their forefathers made a noble resistance, and
obtained a decisive victory over tyranny and lawless power,
when the Stuarts reigned; that they are determined to do
themselves justice, and not to suffer any farther attacks
upon their freedom, from the present Sovereign, who is
exceedingly desirous, as well as ambitious, to destroy the
liberties of mankind, but that they do insist upon a restora-
tion of their own violated rights, and the rights of British
America. Let them enter into an Association for the pre-
servation of their lives, rights, liberties, and privileges, and
resolve at once to bring the whole legion of publick traitors,
who have wickedly entered into a conspiracy to destroy the
dear-bought rights of this free Nation, to condign punish-
ment, for their past and present diabolical proceedings,
which have already stained the land with blood, and threat-
en destruction to the human race.

A few spirited resolutions from the City of London, and
the whole body of Merchants of England, would strike
terrour into the souls of those miscreants — the authors of
these dreadful publick mischiefs.

The grand principle of self-preservation, which is the
first and fundamental law of nature, calls aloud for such ex-
ertions of publick spirit ; the security of the Nation de-
pends upon it; justice, and the preservation of our own.
and the lives of our fellow-subjects in America, demand it ;

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CORRESPONDENCE, PROCEEDINGS, he, MARCH, 1775.

66

the very being of the Constitution makes it necessary ; and
whatever is necessary to the publick safety must be just.

The present conspirators against the happiness of man-
kind ought to know that no subterfuges, no knavish sub-
tilties, no evasions, no combinations, nor pretended com-
missions, shall be able to screen or protect them from pub-
lick justice. They ought to know that the People can
follow them through all their labyrinths and doubling mean-
ders ; a power confined by no limitations but of publick
justice and the publick good ; a power that does not always
follow precedents, but makes them ; a power which has
this for its principle, that extraordinary and unprecedented
villanies ought to have extraordinary and unprecedented
punishments.

To the Officers, Soldiers, and Seamen, tvJw may he em-
ployed to butcher their Relations, Friends, and Fellow-
Subjects in America.

You can neither be ignorant of, nor unacquainted with,
the arbitrary steps that the present King, supported by an
abandoned Ministry, a venal set of prostituted Lords and
Commons, is now pursuing to overturn the sacred Consti-
tution of the British Empire, which he had sworn to pre-
serve.

You are not, or will not long be ignorant, that the King,
the Lords and Commons, have (to satiate their revenge
against a few individuals) declared the whole people of
America to be in a slate of rebellion, only because they
have avowed their resolution to support their Charters,
Rights, and Liberties against the secret machinations of
designing men ; who would destroy them, and you are fixed
upon as the instruments of their destruction. However, I
entertain too good an opinion of you, to believe there is
one true Englishman who will uiWteirtake the bloody work.
Men without fortunes, principles, or connexions, may in-
deed handle their arms in any desperate cause, to oblige a
tyrant or monster in human shape ; but men of family or
fortune, or of honest principles, I hope could never be pre-
vailed upon to sheath their swords in the bowels of their
countrymen. Englishmen surely cannot be found to ex-
ecute so diabolical a deed, to imbrue their hands in inno-
cent blood, and fight against their friends and Country ;
actions which must brand them with perpetual marks of
reproach and infamy.

0 my countrymen, let neither private interest nor friend-
ship, neither relations nor connexions, prevail with or in-
duce you to obey (as you must answer at the last day be-
fore the awful Judge of the world for the blood that will
he wantonly and cruelly spilt) the murderous orders of an
inhuman tyrant; who, to gratify his lust of power, would
lay waste the world. No, rather enter into a solemn league,
and join with the rest of your countrymen, to oppose the
present measures of Government, planned for our ruin.

When your Country calls, then stand forth and defend
the cause of liberty, despise the degeneracy of the age, the
venality of the times, and hand freedom down to posterity,
that your children may smile and bless, not curse your war-
like resolution. To die gloriously fighting for the Laws
and Liberties of your Country, is honourable, and would
deserve a crown of martyrdom ; to die fighting against it is
infamy, and you would forever deserve the heaviest curses
and execrations.

1 hope neither you nor the Irish have forgot the shame-
ful insults you have received from the King ever since the
conclusion of the last war ; you have been despised, neg-
lected, and treated with contempt, while a parcel of beg-
garly Scotchmen only have been put into places of profit
and trust, in the East and West-Indies, in England and
America, and the preference has, of honour and promo-
tions, been constantly given to those people ; nay ! even to
rebels, and some who have served in the French service.
Be assured if you can be prevailed upon to butcher or en-
slave your fellow-subjects, and to set up an arbitrary power
on the ruins of publick liberty, that your substance would
soon be reduced to the miserable pittance of Foreign
Troops; and you, with the surviving subjects of England
and America, be reduced to the miserable condition of be-
ing ruled by an army of Scotch Janizaries, assisted by Ro-
man Catho/icks.

Let every English and Irish Officer, Soldier, and Sea-

Fourth Series. — Vol. ii. i

man, seriously weigh these things, and then, if they are
valiant, courageous, magnanimous, and free, like their fore-
fathers ; if they are true to their King and their Country ;
if they value their religion, laws, lives, liberties, families, and
posterity, no consideration can prevail with them to engage
against the Americans in an inhuman, bloody civil war.

Let every man, then, who is really and truly a Protest-
ant, who wishes well to his Country and the rights of man-
kind, lay aside his prejudices and consider the cause of
America, and her success in this struggle for freedom, as
a thing of the last consequence to England, upon which
our salvation depends ; for the present plan of Royal des-
potism is a plan of general ruin. I say, let us all speedily
unite, and endeavour to defend them from their open, and
ourselves from our own secret and domestick enemies ;
and if any are lukewarm in this great publick cause, and at
this time of imminent danger, let them be made an exam-
ple of treachery and cowardice, that the present generation
may detest and abhor them, and posterity exclaim against
and curse them, as unnatural monsters, who would destroy
the human race.

THE CRISIS. NO. V.

To the People :

At a juncture like the present, when the National repu-
tation of Britain, as well as her absolute safety, stands tot-
tering on the brink of destruction ; when Liberty and Free-
dom, the great pillars of the Constitution, are, by force and
fraud, undermined, and tumbling into ruins ; when the
bloody sword of tyranny is drawn against America, and
soon to be plunged into the bowels of her innocent inhab-
itants ; when the present Sovereign, aided by a despicable
junto, the rebel, outcast, and refuse of Scotland, and a Par-
liament not returned by the free suffrages of the People,
are rioting with impunity in the spoils of an insulted pow-
erful Kingdom ; when they, by cruel oppression, have spread
terrour and civil war in every part of the British Empire ;
when they have destroyed or suspended her trade, and sap-
ped the credit of publick security ; when the most iniqui-
tous and unjust Laws are daily passed to curb the spirit,
and bind in chains the hands of a brave and free People ;
when St. James's is made the slaughter-house of America ;
when the Sovereign has become a National Executioner,
and for a sceptre carries a bloody knife ; when, by a most
scandalous and shameful profusion of the publick money,
we are hourly robbed and plundered to answer all the pur-
poses of kingcraft and villany ; when new Taxes are daily
imposed upon the People in time of peace, to the almost
entire ruin of the State ; when the minions of despotism
are increasing the Land Forces, for the open and avowed
purpose of wading knee-deep in blood through the Liber-
ties of Britain ; when the Protestant Religion is openly
subverted, and the British subjects in Canada deprived of
those great securities of their personal liberty and property —
the Habeas Corpus Act, and Trial by Juries ; when a sus-
pending and dispensing power is assumed by the Crown ;
when opposition to the most cruel and wanton acts of law-
less power is deemed Rebellion ; when the Senators, de-
signed as the protectors of the People, are become their
destroyers ; when the appointed guardians of publick free-
dom are become base apostates and conspirators against the
Liberties of mankind ; when neither oaths nor conscience
can bind the Sovereign or his Ministers ; when both pub-
lick and private justice is denied to a subject, nay, to the
whole body of the People at large ; when our lives are
exposed to false accusations, and our persons to arbitrary
imprisonment and heavy fines; when the Judges before
whom we are to stand upon life and death, and before whom
all cases concerning liberty and property must be brought,
are too much devoted to the will and pleasure of the Crown,
and enemies to the natural rights of mankind ; when Ju-
ries, who are to decide our fate, are packed, bribed, or
modeled to the pernicious designs of a wicked and detest-
able Ministry ; when every post, Civil, Naval, and Milita-
ry, is filled by Northern flatterers and their adherents, by
men of no principles, by parasites, pimps, catmites, and
the advocates for arbitrary power ; when the People can
see nothing but misery and slavery before their eyes ; when
this vast and mighty Empire, the admiration and envy of

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68

the world, is, through corruption and villany, fallen into
ruins :

At such a juncture as this, and under these dreadful and
alarming circumstances of experienced and impending dan-
ger, it becomes the duty of every EnsUskman to Stead
forth to defend his life, his liberty, and his property, from
lawless violence, and to save his Country from perdition.

So highly did our brave and worthy ancestors value and
esteem their rights, liberties, and privileges, that they spared
neither blood nor treasure in their defence, when invaded,
as tliey too often were, by some of our Kings, who, in the
pursuit of lawless power, pulled down all the fences of lib-
erty, and broke in, like the present Sovereign, upon the
Constitution, so far that the lives, liberties, and properties
of the subjects of this Realm were hourly in danger, and
many fell sacrifices to Royal or Ministerial vengeance.

Then it was, that our generous forefathers nobly asso-
ciated themselves in defence of their inherent and legal
rights, and made an offering of the best and choicest blood
in the Kingdom to the shrine of Liberty, that we, their
posterity, might be free and happy. To them and the glo-
rious struggles they made with power, we owe all the bless-
ings we enjoy, and the English Constitution — our greatest
boast and their greatest glory.

It was in such times as these, when our brave progeni-
tors behaved like Britons; with a true patriot-zeal, with
which almost every breast was fired, they spurned the
yoke, and broke the chains that were prepared for them,
letting their King and his minions know they would not
suffer him nor them to destroy their birthrights, and dis-
pense with the known laws of the land, by which they
were resolved to be governed, and not by his will, or any
other lawless power upon earth.

Let us at this time, in this hour of imminent danger, fol-
low so bright and glorious an example, by a well-timed,
noble resistance to the present Royal and Ministerial plan
for subverting the Laws and Religion, and overturning the
Constitution of the British Empire in England and Ame-
rica ; a resistance that will secure freedom to posterity, and
immortal honour to ourselves. The field of glory is open
before us ; let us rouse from a state of apathy, and exert
ourselves in a manner becoming of Englishmen, worthy of
men who love liberty, and deserve to be free. Let us show
to the world we are not to be enslaved by one nor by five
thousand tyrants ; for the sons of cruelty, corruption, and
despotism, will pursue their bloody designs with great vig-
our, and with all the unrelenting malice of barbarians,
against our fellow-subjects in America, in proportion as we
are tame and acquiescing ; and if once they can succeed,
through our baseness and cowardice, the sword will be im-
mediately turned against us — 'the sacred Constitution of our
Empire dissolved, and we shall fall despised, unlamented,
and detested, into the same horrible gulf of arbitrary
power.

Let us take advantage of the present opportunity, while
our resentments boil high ; while every English breast is
fired with indignation against those who are the authors of
all our past and present calamities, which now convulse the
Slate to its centre. Let us by all proper, just, and legal
means, exemplarily punish the parricides, and avowed ene-
mies of mankind. Let neither private acquaintance nor
personal alliance stand between us and our duty to our
Country. Let all who have an interest in the publick
safety join in common measures to defend the publick safe-
ty. Let us pursue to disgrace, destruction, and even death,
all those who have brought this ruin upon us, let them be
ever so great, or ever so many. Let us stamp and deep
engrave, in characters legible to all Europe at present, and
to all posterity hereafter, what vengeance is due to crimes
which have no less objects in view than the ruin of Nations
and the destruction of millions. Let us frustrate their
present desperate and wicked attempt to destroy America,
by joining with our injured fellow-subjects, and bravely
striking one honest and bold stroke to destroy them. Nay,
although the designs of the conspirators should be laid deep
as the centre ; although they should raise hell itself, and
should fetch legions of votaries from thence to avow their
proceedings ; yet, let us not leave the pursuit till we have
their heads and their estates.

Hear part of the Address of your injured and oppressed
fellow-subjects in America, to you, upon this melancholy

occasion — upon the dreadful prospect of impending ruin.
Let every Englishman lay his hand upon his heart, and de-
clare whether he does not think they have been most
cruelly treated ; and whether he can, in justice, conscience,
and humanity, draw the sword against them; or whether
he would not rather join with them, and endeavour to ob-
tain a decisive victory over tyranny, or fall gloriously with
the liberties of his Country. These are their words:

" When a Nation, led to greatness by the hand of lib-
erty, and possessed of all (he glory that heroism, munifi-
cence, and humanity can bestow, descends to the ungrate-
ful task of forging chains for her friends and children ; and
instead of giving support to freedom, turns advocate for
slavery and oppression, there is reason to suspect she has
either ceased to be virtuous, or been extremely negligent in
the appointment of her rulers.

"In almost every age, in repeated conflicts, in long and
bloody wars, as well civil as foreign, against the many
powerful Nations, against the open assaults of enemies, and
more dangerous treachery of friends, have the inhabitants
of your Island — your great and glorious ancestors — main-
tained their independence, and transmitted the rights of
men and the blessings of liberty to you their posterity.

" Be not surprised, therefore, that we, who are descend-
ants from the same common ancestors ; that we, whose
forefathers participated in all the rights, the liberties, and
the Constitution you so justly boast, and who have care-
fully conveyed the same fair inheritance to us, guarantied
by the plighted faith of Government, and the most solemn
compacts with British Sovereigns, should refuse to surren-
der them to men who found their claims on no principles
of reason, and who prosecute them with a design that, by
having our lives and property in their power, they may,
with the greater facility^ enslave you.

"The cause of America is now the object of universal
attention ; it has at length become very serious. This un-
happy Country has not only been oppressed, but abused
and misrepresented ; and the duty we owe ourselves and
posterity, to your interest, and the general welfare of the
British Empire, leads us to address you on this very im-
portant subject.

" We call upon you yourselves to witness our loyalty
and attachment to the common interest of the whole Em-
pire. Did we nol, in the last war, add all the strength of
this vast Continent to the force which repelled our common
enemy ? Did we not leave our native shores, and meet dis-
ease and death, to promote the success of the British Arms
in foreign climates ? Did you not thank us for our zeal, and
even reimburse us large sums of money, which you con-
fessed we had advanced beyond our proportion, and far be-
yond our abilities? You did.

"To what causes, then, are we to attribute the sudden
change of treatment, and that system of slavery which was
prepared for us at the restoration of peace ?

" Let justice and humanity cease to be the boast of your
Nation ! Consult your history, examine your records of
former transactions ; nay, turn to the annals of the many
arbitrary States and Kingdoms that surround you, and show
us a single instance of men being condemned to suffer for
imputed crimes, unheard, unquestioned, and without even
the specious formality of a trial ; and that, too, by laws
made expressly for the purpose, and which had no exist-
ence at the time of the fact committed. If it be difficult
to reconcile these proceedings to the genius and temper of
your Laws and Constitution, the task will become more
arduous when we call upon Ministerial enemies to justify,
not only condemning men untried, and by hearsay, but in-
volving (he innocent in one common punishment with the
guilty ; and for the act of thirty or forty, to bring poverty,
distress, and calamity on thirty thousand souls, and those
not your enemies, but your friends, brethren, and fellow-
subjects.

"Admit that the Ministry, by the power of Britain and
the aid of our Roman Calholick neighbours, should be able
to carry the point of Taxation, and reduce us to a state of
perfect humiliation and slavery, such an enterprise would
doubtless make some addition to your National debt, which
already presses down your liberties, and fills you with pen-
sioners and placemen. We presume, also, that your Com-
merce will somewhat be diminished. However, suppose
you should prove victorious, in what condition will you then

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70

be ? What advantage or what laurels will you reap from
such a conquest ?

'• May not a Ministry, with the same Armies, enslave
you ? It may be said, you will cease to pay them ; but re-
member the Taxes from America; the wealth, and we may
add the men, particularly the Roman Catholicks of this
vast Continent, will then be in the power of your enemies.
Nor will you have any reason to expect that, after making
slaves of us, many among us should refuse to assist in re-
ducing you to the same abject state."

THE CRISIS. NO. VI.

To the Right Honourable Lord North, first Lord of the
Treasury, Chancellor of the Exchequer, and Ranger
of Bushy Park, Sfc.

My Lord : We know not which is most to be detested,
your Lordship's pusillanimity, or your villany. Such a
miscreant never before disgraced the administration of any
Country, nor the confidence of any King. One day you
are all fire and sword ; Boston is to be laid in ashes, and
the rivers of America are to run with the blood of her in-
habitants ; Ships are prepared, Troops embarked, and Offi-
cers appointed for the threatened carnage. You no sooner
find the brave Americans are determined to resist your
instruments of slaughter, and to oppose the cruel designs of
a despotick tyrant, or rob them of their rights, than all the
bravadoing and all the blustering of your Lordship is imme-
diately softened into a calm, and you relax ; fear seizes
your dastardly soul, and you sink beneath the weight of
accumulated guilt.

One day we hear of nothing but accusations, proscrip-
tions, impeachments, and bills of attainder against the Pa-
triots of America, and they are speedily to be apprehended,
and to receive a punishment clue to their crimes — due to
rebels. Three days do not elapse, before this just and
noble resolution of your Lordship to bring those traitors to
a trial is dropped, and lenient, or no steps are to be taken
against them. Another day all the Colonies are in a state
of rebellion, and the last advices received from America,
you tell the House of Commons, were of a very alarming
nature, and such a daring spirit of resistance had manifested
itself throughout the Continent, that it was now high time
Parliament should adopt measures for enforcing obedience
to the late Acts. A plan is no sooner proposed by you, but
carried by a rotten majority, for reducing them to a state
of subjection to your, and your Royal master's will, and
bloodshed and slaughter stare them in the face. They
laugh at your impotent malice, and, with a spirited firm-
ness becoming of freemen, dare you to the stroke ; when,
behold, your threats, and the resolution of your venal
troop, (I will not call it a British Senate,) become like the
threats and resolutions of a society of coal porters, who
declare vengeance against another body of men who will
not comply with their unlawful impositions, but fear the next
day, without even the shadow of justice on their side, to
carry their desperate designs into execution. The motion
you made, my Lord, in the House of Commons, on Monday
last,* for a suspension of the several American Acts till it
is known which of the Provinces will raise a Revenue, and
contribute to the luxuries of the Parent State, subject to
the control of the British Parliament, is a subterfuge too
low, and too thinly disguised, to deceive the Americans, or
to impose upon the understanding of the meanest capacity.
It is evident to the world this is only a villanous plan to
divide them, who, while united together, may bid defiance
to all your Lordship's cunning, fraud, force, and villany.
The Americans, my Lord, are too sensible, and too brave,
to be drawn into any trap, either of your, or your Royal
master's making. You may weave the web as artfully as
you please for their destruction, and they will be sure to
break it. Their cause is just ; it is the cause of Heaven,
and built upon the solid foundation of truth and liberty.
They will carefully watch over the sacred gifts of God, and
never surrender them to you. nor any power upon earth,
but with their lives. You have found, my Lord, that your
hostile invasion, and all your force and violence, would not
terrify them into a compliance with your measures, nor
answer the infamous design of making the King absolute
VuarySO, 1775.

in America : and now you are determined to try whether,
by fraud and artifice, you can effect your purpose.

You have, my Lord, by the most cruel oppressions,
drove the Americans to a state of desperation. You have
destroyed their Charters, invaded their Rights, and imposed
Taxes contrary to every principle of justice and to every
idea of representation ; and by blockading the Port of Bos-
ton, reduced near thirty thousand people, in easy circum-
stances, to a state of dependance upon the charity and
benevolence of their fellow-subjects ; and now, rare conde-
scension, suspension of the several American Acts, or, in
other words, Ministerial oppression and villany, is to be
granted thern, provided they will raise a Revenue in Ame-
rica, still subject to the control of the King and Parliament
in England. This suspension scheme, my Lord, will not
do. The Americans will have a repeal of all the Acts they
complain of, and a full restoration of all their Charters,
Rights, Liberties, and Privileges, before they grant you a
single farthing, and then not subject to the control of a
banditti of rotten Members in St. Stephen's Chapel, of
your appointing. For where would be the difference be-
tween their taxing themselves, subject to the control and
at the disposal of the King and Parliament here, or of the
House of Commons in England taxing them in the first
instance? There would be none, my Lord, and they would
still be in the same situation they are now — still subject to
the will of the King, and the corrupt influence of the
Crown. This scheme, my Lord, appears to me as ridicu-
lous and absurd as the negative still vested in the Court of
Aldermen, of the City of London, which gives a power to
a majority of twenty-six to set aside the choice of seven
thousand livery-men, in the election of their Mayor. Be
assured, my Lord, this new plan must fall to the ground,
with all your former ones in this business. The day of
trial is at hand ; the Americans will be firm. They will
have a confirmation of all their rights; they will have a
redress of all their grievances ; they will levy their own
Taxes, not subject to any controlling power ; and they will
fix the Constitutional Liberties of America upon a founda-
tion not to be again shaken by you, nor any pusillanimous,
weak, wicked, or cruel tyrant.

It is unnatural. — But for a moment, my Lord, suppose
the Americans should come into your proposals, or agree
with the terms of your motion, how, my Lord, can you
make reparation for the injuries England and America
have sustained ; or will it, in any degree, lessen your vil-
lany, or atone for your crimes? What compensation can
you make for the loss of our Trade, to the amount of near
three millions ? What compensation can you make for rob-
bing the Nation of near one million and a half of money, to
carry on your execrable designs against your fellow-subjects
in America 1 You can make none. Your head, indeed,
would be a pleasing spectacle upon Temple Bar ; but the
loss of that, and your estates, would never atone for a ten
thousandth part of your crimes and villany. Still it is to
be hoped the minority of the House of Commons, and the
people, will never leave you till they have both — till you
are made a publick example, and brought to condign pun-
ishment.

Every measure, my Lord, of your administration at
home has been cruel, arbitrary, and unconstitutional ; and
every measure, with respect to Foreign Affairs, has been
weak, cowardly, absurd, and ridiculous ; unbecoming an
English Minister, and only calculated to destroy the hon-
our and interest of this Kingdom.

The glory and dignity of the British Nation was never
so infamously sacrificed, both by you and the King, as in
the year 1770, by a scandalous secret Convention with
Spain, concerning Falkland Islands.

With respect to Domestick Affairs, you have endea-
voured to erect the Sovereign into a despotick tyrant ; you
have made him destroy the Rights and Liberties of the
people in every part of the British Empire. You have
made it apparently his interest to promote divisions at
home ; you have obliged him to quit the glorious title of
Father of his People, and debase himself into the head of a
party, whom he has invested with an absolute dominion
over him ; and whilst he monarchs it in his own closet,
becomes contemptible in the eyes of his subjects, and the
whole world. Weak, timid, and irresolute, he deeply en-

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72

gages in all your Lordship's infamous measures, and tbe
l his Ministers; and it is for this reason we see every
act of Ministerial villany and murder sanctified by Royal
authority.

THE CUISIS. NO. VIII.

To the Lords Suffolk, Pomfret, Radnor, Apsley,
Mid Sandwich:

My Lords : You have a peculiar claim to an Address
from the Authors of the Crisis, and it shall be our business
in this Paper to preserve, if possible, the perishable infa-
my of your names.

Tbe motion made by Lord Radnor, on Monday, the
27th of February, concerning No. Ill, of the Crisis, was
unjust and villanous. The Paper contains nothing but
the most sacred truths, and therefore could not be a false
or scandalous libel. The amendment of the epithet, trea-
sonable, proposed and supported by the Lords Pomfret,
Suffolk, Apsley, and Sandwich, was infamous, and of a
piece with every other proceeding of the present reign and
present Ministry. It showed, in a particular manner, the
bloody-minded dispositions of prostituted Court Lords, the
instruments of murder and publick ruin. The immaculate
Lord Sandwich insisted that the word treasonable should
stand part of the motion, as a proper foundation for bring-
ing the Authors to exemplary and condign punishment.
Suppose, my Lords, this infamous amendment to the Rad-
nor motion had been carried, and it bad stood a false,
scandalous, and treasonable libel, could the mere ipse dixit
of a few venal Lords make that treason which, in the lite-
ral or constructive sense of the word, was not so.

The Author of No. Ill, is perfectly well acquainted with
tbe Statute of Treasons, passed in the reign of Edward the
Third, and likewise with the various expositions and inter-
pretations of it. He well knew the Paper was written
upon the true principles of the Revolution, and that it
could be justified by the laws of the land. He well knew
(though there is hardly any villany but what Court syco-
phants may do with ease) that it was not in the power of
Lord Mansfield, with all his chicanery, with all his arti-
fice, with all his abuse of the law, with all his perversion
of justice, with all the aid of false construction and forced
inuendoes, to bring it within the meaning of that Statute.
He well knew the disposition of tbe Sovereign and his
minions, and that nothing would or can satiate Royal,
Scotch, or Ministerial revenge, but the blood of those who
oppose the present most horridly cruel, and most infamous-
ly wicked, measures of Government. And, my Lords, he
well knew the shocking prostitution of hereditary peerage,
and the barefaced treachery and villany of a purchased
majority in the House of Commons.

Has there not, my Lords, been innocent blood enough
shed in this reign, that your Lordships should still thirst
for more. Why should your Lordships be so desirous of
stopping every channel of publick information ? The infamy
of your actions are sufficiently known, and will be handed
down to the latest ages of time, while your names will stink
in the nostrils of posterity.

The Statute of Treasons, my Lords, passed in the
twenty-fifth year of the reign of Edward tbe Third, was
an act of vast importance to the publick weal, for till then
there was hardly a word spoke, or a paper written, but
what was deemed treason ; and tbe Parliament which pass-
ed it were called Benedicium Parliamentum — the Blessed
Parliament.

Tbe substance of this Statute is branched out by my
Lord Coke into six heads, which we shall here give, with
some observations of our own, to show your Lordships and
tbe world, that No. Ill, of the Crisis, is not within the
meaning of either of these heads, and that by your amend-
ed motion you designed to lay the ground-work of a prose-
cution the most cruel and infamous ever carried on in this
Country, worse than those which, without proof or the
colour of guilt, took away the lives of the great Lord Russel
and Algernon Sidney.

The first head is concerning death, by compassing or
imagining the death of the King, Queen, or Prince, and
declaring the same by some overt deed ; by killing or mur-
dering the Chancellor, Treasurer, Justice of either Bench,

Justice in Eyre, Justices of Assize, Justices of Oyer and
Terminer, in their places during their offices.

The second is, to violate, that is, to know carnally, the
Queen, the King's eldest daughter unmarried, the Prince's
wife.

The third is, levying war against tbe King.

The fourth is, adhering to the King's enemies, within the
Realm or without, and declaring the same by some overt act.

The fifth is, counterfeiting the great, the privy-seal, or
the King's coin.

The sixth and last, by bringing into this Realm counter-
feit money, to the likeness of the King's coin.

First. To compass and imagine, is to contrive, design,
or intend tbe death of the King; but this must be declared
by some overt act ; declaring by an open act a design to de-
pose or imprison the King, is an overt act ; to manifest the
compassing his death. 1 believe, my Lords, tbe Author of
Number III of the Crisis, is not under the predicament of
this exposition.

Second. By the word King, is intended, 1. A King be-
fore his coronation, as soon as ever the Crown descends
upon him ; for the coronation is but a ceremony. 2. A
King de facto, and not de jure, is a King within this Act ;
and treason against him is punishable, though the right
heir get the Crown.

Third, Note. It is very strange, but in the printed
Statute Book, it is there said, probably attainted, which is
a gross errour ; for the words of the Record are, et de ceux
provablements soit attaint ; and shall be thereof probably
attaint ; and it is amazing to me, that so gross a mistake
should be suffered, since my Lord Coke has so expressly
observed the difference in these words following. 3. Inst,
fol. 12. In this branch, saith he, four things are to
be observed: 1. This word (provablement) provably, that
is, upon direct and manifest proof, not upon conjectural
presumptions or inferences, or strains of wit, but upon good
and sufficient proof; and herein, the adverb (provable-
ment) provably hath great force, and signifieth a direct and
plain proof; and, therefore, the offender must provably be
attainted, which words are as forcible, as upon direct and
manifest proof. Note. The word is not probably, for then
commune argumentum might have served, but tbe word is
provably be attainted. 2. The word attaint necessarily
implied), that he be proceeded with, and attainted, accord-
ing to the due course of law, and proceedings of law,
and not by absolute power, or by other means, as in former
times had been used ; and, therefore, if a man doth adhere
to the enemies of the King, or be slain in open war against
the King, or otherwise die before the attainder of treason,
he forfeiteth nothing, because (as the Act saith) he is not
attainted ; wherein this Act hath altered that, which, be-
fore this Act, in case of treason, was taken for law. And
the Statute of 34 Ed. III., saves nothing to the King, but
that which was in esse, and pertaining to the King at the
making of that Act. And this appeareth by a judgment
in Parliament, in ami. 29 H. VI., that Jack Cade, being
shin in open rebellion, could no ways be punished, or for-
feit any thing, and, therefore, was attainted by that Act of
high treason. 3. Of open deed, per opertum factum;
these words strengthen the former exposition of provable-
ment; an overt act must be alleged in every indictment
upon this Act, and proved ; compassing, by bare words, is
not an overt act, as appears by many temporary Statutes
against it. But there must be some open act, which must
be manifestly proved. As if divers do conspire the death
of the King, and the manner how, and thereupon provide
weapons — powder, poison, harness, send letters and the like,
for the execution of the conspiracy. If a subject conspire
with a foreign Prince to invade the Realm by open hos-
tility, and prepare for the same by some overt act, this is a
sufficient overt act for the death of the King. 4tbly. A
conspiracy is had to levy war ; this is no treason by this
act, until it be levied ; therefore it is no overt act, or mani-
fest proof of the compassing tbe death of the King within
this act, for the words are, deceo, &tc, thereof, that is, of
the compassing of the death. The wisdom of the makers
of this Law would not make bare words to be treason,
seeing such variance commonly among the witnesses, about
the same, as few of them agree together.

In the preamble of the Statute of 1 Mar. (concerning

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CORRESPONDENCE, PROCEEDINGS, Sic, MARCH, 1"

74

the repeal of certain treasons declared after this Statute of
2o Edw. HI. and before that time, and bringing all things
to the measures of this Statute) it was agreed by the whole
Parliament, that Laws justly made for the preservation of
the Commonwealth, without extreme punishment, are more
often obeyed and kept, than Laws and Statutes made with
great and extreme punishments ; and in special such Laws
and Statutes so made, whereby not only the ignorant and
rude unlearned people, but also learned and expert people,
minding honesty, are oftentimes trapped and snared, yea,
many times lor words only, without other fact or deed
done or perpetrated. Therefore this Act of the '25th
Ed. III. doth provide that there must be an overt act.
othly. As to treason, by levying war against the King,
we must note, that though conspiring or compassing to levy
war, without a war de facto, be no treason, yet it may
conspire a war, and only some few actually levy it, all are
guilty of the treason. Raising a force to burn or throw
down a particular enclosure, is only a riot; but if it had
been to have gone from Town to Town, to throw down
all enclosures, or to change Religion, or the like, it were
levying of war, because the intended mischief is publick.
Holding a Fort or Castle against the King's force, is levy-
ing war. 6th. Counterfeiting the great or privy-seal, is
treason, but it must be an actual counterfeiting thereof;
compassing to do it is no treason ; affixing the great seal
by tlie Chancellor, without warrant, is no treason ; fixing
a new great seal to another patent is misprision, but no
treason, being not counterfeiting within this Act. But
aiders and consenters are within this Act. 7th. Treason
concerning coin, is counterfeiting the King's coin ; and this
was treason at common law, and judgment only as of
petty treason ; but clipping, Sic, being made treason by
other Statutes, the judgment is, to be drawn, hanged, and
quartered. Money, here, extends only to the proper money
of this Realm. 8th. As this Statute leaves all other
doubtful matters to be declared treason in Parliament,
but not to be punished as such till so declared, so in suc-
ceeding Kings' reigns abundance of other matters were
declared treason, which being found very grievous and
dangerous, by this Statute, 1 Mar., it is enacted that thence-
forth no act, deed, or offence, being by Act of Parliament
or Statute made treason, petty treason, or misprision of
treason, by words, writing, cyphering, deeds, or otherwise
however, shall be taken, had, deemed or adjudged to be
high treason, petty treason, or misprision of treason,
but only such as be declared and expressed to be trea-
son, petty treason, or misprision of treason, by this Sta-
tute of 25 Edw. III.

Here we rest the matter, my Lords, convinced that the
author of Number III, is not within the meaning of this
Statute, nor any exposition of it, and that the design of
your Lordships in adding the epithet treasonable, was
wicked, base, and infamous, and will be sure to secure to
you the contempt and detestation of every honest man.

THE CRISIS. NO. IX.

To the King :

Sir : You ascended the Throne of these Realms with
advantages which, if properly improved, would have ren-
dered your reign not only glorious and happy, but have
made you the most powerful monarch upon earth ; you
might have kept the world in awe. Yet, O shame to tell,
though the times demand it, you soon sacrificed your own
peace, the tranquillity, honour, and interest of this great
and mighty Kingdom, to the ambitious views and pernicious
designs of your infernal minion, Lord Bute, and his profli-
gate, abandoned adherents. Your accession to the Throne
filled with joy the breast of every Englishman ; but, alas !
it was of short duration; you soon convinced them of their
mistake, and the compliments paid to your understanding,
the calm hour of reason soon convinced us were ill-
founded.

No sooner seated upon the Throne of this vast Empire,
than you, like all other Kings, as well as tyrants, made the
people many and fair promises. You told your Parliament
that the suppression of vice and immorality, the encourage-
ment of Trade and Commerce, and the preservation of
peace and harmony amongst your people, should be the
rule of your conduct, and your principal study. How far

you have kept your word, the sacred pen of truth shall
now declare.

Scarce seated in regal dignity, before you drove from
your presence and councils, by the advice of your Scotch
favourite, Lord Bate, every man of honour and integrity,
who was valued for his love to his Country, and affection
to your family ; you implicitly followed the advice of your
Northern minion, and in their room took those only who
were the most conspicuous for their vices, and the most
abandoned in principle. These are facts which Sandwich,
Bute, Grafton, North, Sic., will confirm.

These men you still continue to countenance ; every
scene of iniquity they have been concerned in, and every
act of violence, oppression, and murder they have com-
mitted, has been by you tacitly approved, nay, applauded !
Adultery, debauchery, and divorces, are more frequent now
than in the corrupt and profligate days of Charles the
Second ; these, Sir, prove incontestably your religious princi-
ples, and show how far you have suppressed vice and im-
morality.

It will now be necessary to inquire how far you have
encouraged Trade and Commerce. Was it by illegally im-
posing a stamp-duty on the Americans, and taxing those
commodities which we supplied them with from this Coun-
try, which has stopped, for near six years, a great traffick
between this Kingdom and the Colonies ? Was it by
suffering, with the most shameful impunity, the Portuguese
to infringe upon the privileges of the English Merchants
at Lisbon, by which many were not only injured, but almost
totally ruined? Was it by blocking up the Port and de-
stroying the trade of the Town of Boston, thereby redu-
cing to a state of miserable dependance more than thirty
thousand people, and giving a vital stab to the whole Com-
merce of America ?

We will now examine, Sir, how far you have preserved
peace and harmony among your people. Was it by provi-
ding for all the beggarly relations, and miserable depend-
ants of your Scotch minion, in preference to your English
subjects, especially those who were the chief instruments
of placing your family upon the Throne ? Was it by order-
ing the late Lord Halifax to issue an illegal warrant for
apprehending Mr. Wilkes 1 Was it by rewarding that de-
linquent after he had been found guilty of a breach of the
English Laws ? Was it by screening your Minister behind
the Throne, who violated the rights of the Freeholders of
England 1 Was it by rejecting the Petitions of your injur-
ed subjects, and laughing at the remonstrance presented to
you from the first City in the world, the great capital of
the British Empire ? Was it by not granting the suppli-
cations of your people, and meanly referring those Peti-
tions and Remonstrances to the consideration of those very
men, whose conduct they arraigned, and who were only
the slavish tools of your abandoned Ministers ? Was it by
sending Troops to Boston, depriving people of their Con-
stitutional rights ; and, contrary to all the Laws of this free
Country, enforcing the tyrannical and oppressive Acts of
your abandoned Parliament with the sword, and laying
America under a Military Government ? Was it by re-
warding the profligate, the corrupt, and the plunderers of
their Country, with titles and honours ? Was it by a tame
dastardly submission to the insults of the Spaniards, and
a sacrifice of the honour of the British Nation ? These,
Sir, are the means you have made use of for preserving
peace and harmony among your people. But, Sir, the
greatest piece of ministerial villany, and diabolical cruelty
is still behind — it is now going through the House of Lords,
and you, Sir, will soon be called upon to sign it; it is a Bill
for restraining the American Fishery, and starving to death,
or driving to a state of desperation, more than three hundred
thousand people. Consider, Sir, the fatal tendency of this
Bill ; determine no longer to be the dupe of an abandoned
set of men ; act from yourself, and refuse to sign an Act of
Parliament which must involve one part of the Empire in
a civil war, and reduce thousands of your subjects to
poverty and want. Let no consideration prevail with you
to execute a deed, at the idea of which humanity revolts.
Consider, Sir, how much this will raise the indignation of
your people here, when they find you are destitute of the
common feelings of humanity, and that you can be so
easily prevailed upon to sacrifice your subjects to the cruel
designs of youn. Ministers and favourites. Give some

75

CORRESPONDENCE, PROCEEDINGS, &c, MARCH, 1715.

proof of a determined resolution no longer to pursue mea-
sures which roust end iii the destruction of your Kingdom,
and perhaps in the ruin of your family.

Consider, Sir, how despicable you appear in the eyes of
the world ; who, instead of governing, suffer yourself to be
governed ; who, instead of being a leader, are led ; who,
instead of being a King, are nothing but a mere cypher of
State, while your favourite and Ministers wear all the ap-
pendages to sovereignty.

It has long surprised the Kingdom to think how you
could bear such wretches to prey upon you ; to think how
you could suffer them to aggrandize themselves and crea-
tures ; to possess the greatest wealth, and to hold the 6rst
offices in the Kingdom ; and all this by imposing upon you,
by making you break your coronation-oath, by making
vou violate every promise you made with your people, and
"by filling your ears with lies, instead of truth. How is it
possible you can bear such usage, which no sensible man
in a private capacity can bear ? and to be the dupe of the
vilest of the creation, is so much beneath the dignity of a
man who pretends to govern, that it is astonishing such
fiends should prevail as they do. Indeed they never could,
unless you, Sir, like them, was inclined to establish an arbi-
trary system of Government, and to set up your own will
in opposition to the laws of the land.

Let me advise you, Sir, as you regard your own pros-
perity and the welfare of your Kingdom ; let me conjure
you, as you value your own safety, to consider well the
fatal and ruinous measures your Ministers are pursuing, and
you sanctifying with the Royal authority ; consider the
miserable, the unfortunate situation of this Country ; think
on the dangers which threaten on every side ; consider we
are now upon the eve of a Civil War with our Colonies ;
from the present face of things, it is inevitable ; Trade and
Commerce is at a stand, and all the horrours of wretched-
ness and want stare them in the face. Consider, Sir, the
feelings of men, reduced in the short space of a few days,
through wanton acts of power, from a state of ease and
plenty to that of misery and famine. I ask, is it possible
for them to set bounds to their resentment ? Consider,
Sir, the French and Spaniards will not long remain idle
spectators, when once they see us deeply engaged in a
war with the Colonies. Throw off then your supine in-
dolence ; awake from your lethargick state ; and if you will
not be excited by the desire of doing good, awake at least
to a sense of your own danger ; think when the general
calamity comes" on, who will be the objects of publick
hatred. Will not the advisers of these destructive mea-
sures be the first sacrifices to the popular resentment ?
When the Merchants, Traders, and Manufacturers are
starving, when the whole body of the people are in misery
and distress, what security, Sir, can you expect to find ?
Where will your Ministers conceal themselves? They
will not be safe even within the walls of your Palace !

Let these things, Sir, be well weighed, and no longer
persuade yourself the people were made for you, and not
you for them ; no longer believe that you do not govern
for them but for yourself; that the people live only to in-
crease your glory, or to furnish matter for pleasure. For
once, Sir, consider what you may do for them, and not
what you may draw from them.

The people, Sir, think it to be a crime of the first mag-
nitude to convert that power to their hurt which was in-
tended for their good ; and to obey a King while he acts
in this manner, and tramples under foot all laws, divine
and human, argues not only a want of sense in the highest
degree, but a want of love for our Country, and a disregard
for ourselves and posterity.

Your subjects, Sir, are under no obligations to you, nor
do they owe you any allegiance anv longer than you con-
tinue to protect them, and make their good the chief end
of your Government. When a Prince assumes to himself
an extravagant or an unlawful power, then all respect
ceases, and he ceases to be a King; whilst he protects and
preserves his people in their just rights, and governs them
by the laws of the land, all good men will love and esteem
him, and risk their lives and fortunes in his service; but
when lie begins to invade their liberties, to set up an arbi-
trary power, to impose unlawful taxes, raise forces, and
make war upon his people, and suffer foreign Slates to
insult and injure them, then all virtuous and good men will

detest and abhor him, and endeavour to remove him from
a throne he unworthily fills.

In such cases resistance is a virtue ; and to say that some
should passively suffer, lest, by resisting, they should cause
the ruin of many, is not a just reason ; because, in all pro-
bability, they will be the cause that millions unborn shall
live happy and free ; and what can be a more noble, glori-
ous, and pious motive for suffering, than to transmit liberty
to posterity ? For this our fathers bravely fought — and
many of them gloriously fell — to preserve themselves and
their descendants free, and to destroy the tyranny and des-
potism of the Stuarts, and, Sir, (let me beg you will re-
member with gratitude,) to place your family upon the
throne of the British Empire.

The author of this paper is far from advising violent
measures upon every errour or misconduct of a Prince ;
but resistance becomes a duty when they attempt the ruin
of the State, the subversion of liberty, or overturning the
Constitution of the Kingdom. It is notorious to the world,
Sir, that your Ministers are guilty of all these black and
deadly crimes, and yet you screen and protect them. The
conclusions to be drawn from thence are obvious, and you,
like Charles, may live to see your favourites fall.

EXTRACT OF A LETTER FROM CHARLESTOWN, IN SOUTH-
CAROLINA, TO A GENTLEMAN IN LONDON, DATED
MARCH 7, 1775.

I do assure you I am not now near so strenuous for
America as when I left London. I am far, however, from
being able to judge of the state of the Continent, in gene-
ral; but sure I am this Province cannot long subsist with-
out a free Trade, and a mutual dependance on the Mother
Country. Many articles which Great Britain furnishes
are now become very scarce ; Rice and Indigo, the grand
staple of our Commerce, are a drug.

Before the Non-Exportation scheme took effect, you
would have been surprised to see the number of Ships in
our harbour, and the Trade carried on in the Town ; in
short, on my arrival I observed as much hurry and bustle
as in the streets of London ; and 1 could not but admire
the liveliness of the people. But the contrast is now visible ;
their tempers are soured ; their fortunes, for want of Trade,
consuming fast. A train of consequences must inevitably
ensue which, in my opinion, they will not be able to re-
trieve in the space of a dozen years. It is the wish, there-
fore, of the wise and sober, that a speedy reconciliation
with the Mother Country may be effected; but as this Prov-
ince has bore so high a part in their opposition to Gov-
ernment, they are unwilling to give out till the terms
offered become general.

PRINCESS ANNE COUNTY (viRfilNIA) COMMITTEE.

Committee Chamber, Kempe's Landing, March 7, 1775.

The conduct of Mr. John Saunders being taken into
consideration, relative to the Provincial and Continental
Associations, at this important crisis, when the liberties of
America are in danger of being subverted, it was thought
expedient that he be held up to publick censure, and the
rather because he hath had the advantage of a liberal edu-
cation, and for some time past hath studied the law.

The facts upon which our censure is grounded are as
follows : The said John Saunders was present at the meet-
ing of a respectable body of Freeholders of the County,
at the Court-House, in July, 1774, for the purpose of
choosing Deputies to attend the Convention in li'illiams-
burg, the first day of August last, and of entering into
resolutions expressive of the sentiments of the County, in
support of their just rights and privileges ; which not one
refused signing but said Sounder*, who obstinately refused,
though particularly solicited by some of the principal gen-
tlemen then present.

When the Provincial Association, entered into in August,
1774, was read, and offered to the people that they might
express their approbation by signing it, at a meeting of
the Freeholders, on Tuesday, the 16th day of the said
month, and afterwards at almost every publick meeting
within this County, at many of which the said Saunders
appeared, yet he constantly persisted in his refusal to
accede thereto.

When the Continental Association was also offered him

77

CORRESPONDENCE, PROCEEDINGS, fcc., MARCH, 1775.

78

to sign, lie likewise refused, alleging that the way of pro-
ceeding was illegal ; of which the Committee for the
County heing informed, they, at a meeting held the 5th
day of January, 1775. considering that the said Saunders
was a young ma'\ and might he hotter advised, appointed
a Sub-Committee to wait on the said Saunders, who,
agreeable thereto, waited on him at his own house, expos-
tulated with him on his conduct, and desired him to retract
these words, viz : " that the way of proceeding was ille-
gal,'' which he spoke to Mr. Lemuel Thorowgood , who
was appointed by the Committee to offer the said Asso-
ciation ; upon which he replied, "that he did not intend
such a return should have been made by Mr. Thorowgood ;"
and being asked whether those words were inadvertently
uttered, he answered, " they were not." Mr. Saunders
likewise acquainted them that he told Mr. Thorowgood,
" it was his opinion he had no tight to call upon tiim."
They then desired him to give- his reasons for not signing
the Association : to which he answered, " if they had come
as private gentlemen, he would have given them his rea-
sons, hut as they came in the capacity they did, he chose
not to do so." A few days after being greatly pressed by
Mr. Hunter, one of his most intimate acquaintances, he
signed it ; but, behold ! at the end of his name he added
the negative no, with a capital N ! The Committee being
informed of this additional mark of contempt, they then
appointed a Sub-Committee, to summon the said Saunders
to appear this day before them, who failed so to do.

On the same day, the Committee having maturely deli-
berated on the behaviour of one Benjamin Dingly Gray,
concluded that his conduct ought to be inserted in the
Gazette, and exposed to publick animadversion, of which
the following is an exact detail :

On the 5th day of January last, in Committee, it was
resolved that a list of the Non-Associators in this County,
of whom the said Benjamin Dingly Gray was one. be
entered in the Minute-Book, and a true copy thereof deli-
vered to each Merchant residing in this County, and other
copies fixed up at several publick places, and likewise in
Norfolk County and Borough ; and further, it was recom-
mended to all persons not to have any dealings, or com-
mercial intercourse with the said Non-Associators. The
said Gray being apprized of this, and hearing that a list of
the Non-Associators in this County was fixed up at the
Market-House in Norfolk Borough, and that he was in-
cluded in the said list, uttered the following disrespectful,
scurrilous, and abusive words, to wit: " That he looked
upon this Committe as a pack of damn'd rascals, for adver-
tising him in the manner they had done, and that they
ought to have advertised him in the publick papers, alleg-
ing in that case he would have had an opportunity of vin-
dicating himself." The Committee being informed of the
invectives thrown out, did, on Thursday, the 2d day of
March, appoint three of their body to summon him to ap-
pear before them this day, who, when summoned, declared
it was uncertain whether he could attend or not, being at
that lime indisposed, but added, that his sentiments were
still the same with regard to this Committee.

Also, on the same day, the Committee being acquainted
that Captain Mitchell Phillips had refused to appear before
them, agreeable to an order made last meeting, that he
might give his reasons for his late very extraordinary beha-
viour touching the Association, it was thought proper that
such his behaviour should be made publick. The said
Mitchell Phillips being always averse to the measures
adopted by the Americans to preserve their just rights and
privileges inviolate, and being Captain of a Company of
Militia, over whom he has great influence, has exerted
every effort to deter the men under his command from
acceding to the Association, and represented all the Ame-
rican proceedings in the light of absolute rebellion, which,
it is feared, may have a bad tendency.

And thereupon the Committee came to the following
Resolve, to wit : That the aforesaid John Saunders, Benja-
min Dingly Gray, and Mitchell Phillips, be looked upon
as inimical to the liberties of this Country, and the means
entered into by the American Continental Congress for
the restoration of them, and that no person ought to have
any commercial intercourse or dealing with them.
By order of the Committee,

Thomas Abbott, Clerk.

ACCOUNT OF AN OUTRAGE COMMITTED BY CAPT. GRAVES.

Philadelphia, Marcli 15, 1775.

On the 7th instant, as George Taylor, of Wilmington,
in his own Shallop, was on his passage from thence to this
City, he was boarded by a party of ruffians from the Kind's
armed Schooner the Diana, commanded by Captain
Graves, (nephew to Admiral Graves, now at Boston,) who
brought Taylor to, and on boarding him, demanded what
he had on board ; to which he answered, only Rum and
Limes ; but civilly told them they might go down and look.
They then demanded his papers, which were pronounced
authentick ; but this not satisfying them, they entered the
cabin, wherein was several Hundred Pounds cash, which
Taylor, no doubt justly thinking proper to have his eye
toward, went after them to the cabin door, without going
down ; whereupon he was immediately menaced and insult-
ed, as suspecting the honour of the King's men; and al-
though he made no other than a moderate civil reply, as
several passengers on board can testify, he was immediate-
ly furiously attacked and knocked down, where he was
beaten in a most inhuman manner till the deck was be-
smeared with blood, and at the same time shamefully in-
sulted with the infernal language common to such crews,
(and which, but for offending the civilized ear, might be
repeated.) They then threatened to throw him overboard
and drown him, took the command of his boat, and after
gratifying their malice by towing her about in the river,
took her along-side the Schooner, where the illustrious
Captain detained Iter a considerable time, insulting and
abusing the Skipper, and justifying and applauding the
conduct of his heroick men, who had thus brought him a
common Shallop, with two or three men on board, without
the least appearance of clandestine conduct. After the
gallant Captain, with his crew, had somewhat glutted their
rancour, they dismissed the Shallop ; but Taylor was so
wounded and abused, that he was not able to conduct her;
yet, by the assistance of those on board, she was got up to
this City, and he afterwards conveyed home to Wilming-
ton, where he lay dangerously ill.

TO THE PRINTERS OF THE PENNSYLVANIA GAZETTE.

Gentlemen: Seeing in your Paper of Wednesday,
March 15th, a most scandalous, false, and base represen-
tation of the conduct of a gentleman and boat's crew be-
longing to the King's armed Schooner Diana, 1 must, as a
lover of truth, and being privy to the whole matter respect-
ing George Taylor, of Wilmington, beg leave to assure the
publick, that he was not struck, or in any manner molest-
ed, (though he used many provoking speeches,) till he
took hold of the gentleman on duty by the collar, who
then struck Taylor one blow, the matter there ending, as
Taylor did not return it ; neither was he taken along-sjde
the Schooner, having produced the proper papers.

Dashwood Bacon.

We, whose names are here under mentioned, from our
personal knowledge of Mr. Bacon, as a gentleman and
man of honour, are convinced he would not sign to any
thing that was not strictly true. And we do further aver,
on our honour, that the Shallop was not brought along-
side, or detained longer than is usual in examining vessels.

John Dowson, Master.

John Birthwhistle, Surgeon.

TO THE PUBLICK.

You have, no doubt, generally seen an attempt made, in
a late number of the Pennsylvania Packet, by Dashwood
Bacon and others, (probably confederates,) in order toexcul-
pate the perpetrators of the atrocious fact committed upon
the body of George Taylor, in his own vessel, in the King's-
R'tad, by some of the Diana's crew, under the command
of Captain Graves. That they should attempt to clear
themselves in the manner they have, is not much to be
admired, since it commonly happens that the most daring
murderers plead " not guilty ;" but when those who are
called men, are grown so callous as to be insensible of the
compunctions of conscience, and hardened as to deny the
voice of truth, even in the face of the sun, it then becomes
necessary more methodically to arraign them, and investi-
gate their conduct before the tribunal of the people, that

79

CORRESPONDENCE, PROCEEDINGS, he, MARCH, 1775.

80

so, if possible, they may be subjected to the punishment
and contempt which they justly deserve ; for which pur-
the following Depositions, relative to the aforesaid
abuse, are here presented to the world, viz :

Wilmington Borough, ss.

Personally appeared before me, John McKinley, Esq.,
Chief Burgess of said Borough, Nathan Wood, who,
being solemnly affirmed, doth declare and say, that he
was lately a passenger on board George Taylor's Shal-
lop, at the time when, on her passage from this Borough
to Philadelphia, she was brought to by a party belonging
to the King's armed Schooner Diana, Captain Graves
commander; that on coming on board the Shallop, an
Officer asked what was on board, and being answered by
Taylor, only Rum and Limes, and the Officer demanding
proper papers, Taylor immediately produced them. The
hatch was then opened, and the hogsheads counted and
compared, which agreeing with the papers, the Officer
asked further, whether Taylor had not something more on
board, or in the cabin, apd in a very scoffing manner in-
quired whether he had not some Teas ; Taylor replied, he
was welcome to go into the cabin and see himself, assur-
ing him at the same time that nothing was on board besides
the Rum and Limes. Then the Officer and two Sailors
went into the cabin and stayed some time, on which Taylor
went to the cabin door and looked in ; the Officer asked
what he wanted ; Taylor replied, I did not know there
was any body in the cabin but you. The Officer then got
into a violent rage, cursing and swearing in the most dread-
ful manner, and coming upon deck used many horrid im-
precations and threats against Taylor, that he would kick
him overboard, &,c, for suspecting the King's men, and
still vaunting that he was a King's Officer, at the same time
striking and wounding Taylor, so that the deck was prodi-
giously besmeared with his blood. And this affirmant far-
ther saith, that Taylor gave not the least provocation, but,
on the contrary, both in his words and behaviour, showed
the greatest respect and submission, and never resisted or
attempted to touch the Officer. The Shallop coming
abreast the Schooner, the Officer told Captain Graves,
who was walking on the quarter-deck of the Schooner,
that " this fellow has Limes and Rum on board ;" where-
upon the Captain immediately got into the boat with
several sailors, came on board the Shallop, and, without
any examination, highly approved of the conduct of the
Officer in beating Taylor, (who, at that time, was leaning
bleeding violently in the cockpit,) and said that if he had
been on board he would have given him twice as much,
and threatened to kick his teeth down his throat, and to
take him on board the Schooner, and there to tie him up
and whip him. The Captain then ordered four men into
the boat to tow the Shallop along-side the Schooner, which
had then drifted a small distance astern, but finding they
could not tow her against the wind and tide, the anchor
was ordered out ; and the Captain asking for the papers,
they were handed to him, and he having examined and
found them authentick. ordered Taylor to go about his
business, after having been detained nearly an hour and a
half. And further this affirmant saith not.

Nathan Wood.

Affirmed this 1st day of April, 1775, before

John McKinley.

Likewise, William Carter, Mary Johnston, and Daniel
Nicholson, being solemnly sworn on the Holy Evangelists
of Almighty God, do severally depose and say, that they,
respectively, were on board George Taylor's Shallop at
the time afore-mentioned, and were particularly attentive
to the transactions afore-related, and that what Nathan
Wood, the above affirmant, hath declared in his examina-
tion, is just and true, and particularly that George Taylor
gave not the least provocation, but on the contrary behaved
in the most respectful and submissive manner.

William Carter,
Mart Johnston,
Daniel Nicholson.
Sworn this 1st day of April, 1775, before

John McKinley.

Now if conduct of this kind is permitted with impunity,
let us no longer exclaim against the piratical States of Barba-

ra for committing outrages upon the subjects of George the
Third, since we see British barbarians, subjects of George
the Third, under his commission, sanction, and authori-
ty, commit such audacious outrages upon the persons and
property of his subjects. From what hath been heretofore
offered against the present cause of complaint, some may
perhaps have been ready to treat it as a fiction ; but since
the matter is here so amply confirmed, may we not with
confidence look to the King, and call aloud upon him, or
those who represent him in cases of this nature, strictly to
examine into this conduct of his servants, so that justice,
which is the boasted glory of the English Nation, may
take place, and that they may thereby, in some measure,
redeem the honour and dignity of the Crown from the ob-
loquy and contempt to which such conduct has too justly
subjected it.

TO THE PRINTERS OF THE PENNSYLVANIA GAZETTE.

Philadelphia, March 8, 1775.

Respected Friends: Observing that, in your Paper of
the week before last, you published a piece styled " The
Testimony of the Representatives of the people called
Quakers," signed James Pcmberton, but as there was a
piece published in Bradford's Journal, signed B. L.,
which, as it is esteemed necessary towards elucidating
several expressions not properly comprehended by those
who are unacquainted with Friends' writings, I therefore
hope, as you have favoured the publick with one, you'll
do them the justice to publish the other.

Amicus Veritatis.

To the Printers of the Pennsylvania Journal:

It is a duty incumbent on societies or individuals, to vin-
dicate or explain any publick transaction which excites
general disgust or uneasiness, be the ground ever so slight.
1 have therefore preferred your Paper, as being more gene-
rally read by those calling themselves the Sons of Liberty,
in order to remove those suspicions and misapprehensions
which a late publication, as from the Society of Friends, I
find has produced. Those who suppose this Testimony to
be pointed against the measures thought necessary for the
publick interest, have not attended to its language, or the
conduct of that Society, since our unhappy dispute with the
Mother Country commenced. A due regard to these will
shew, that it is intended to preserve the general cause from
being sullied by the violence or caprice of rash and turbu-
lent minds. The Society hath ever been distinguished for
its loyalty to the King, and obedience to his Government.
This is therefore recommended in the strongest terms, but
by no means implies a loyalty to Parliament, or a Govern-
ment of fellow-subjects over fellow-subjects, the improprie-
ty and injustice of which must be obvious to the meanest
capacity. A due submission to the King and his Govern-
ment most evidently means such a Government as an Eng-
lish King rightfully has over English subjects ; a Govern-
ment bounded and limited by law, and founded upon the
two great principles of the English Constitution, which en-
title the governed to dispose of their own property, and to
partake in legislation. This is the Government for which
America is contending, in which our duty to our King and
our own rights are so happily blended.

A due caution is also given against riots, routs, illegal
combinations, and assemblies, which, by a strange and
forced inference of some weak or prejudiced minds, has
been supposed to allude to the Congress, Committees, &.c,
bodies to which such terms are by no means applicable,
and which are certainly not meant in the publication in
question, for the following plain reasons: —

First. The peaceable meeting of persons, and discussion
of publick affairs, let it be called by what name it will, is
so far from being condemned by any law, that it is the best
security of our happy Constitution that it is lawful.

Secondly. It cannot be supposed that any English sub-
ject, possessing the smallest portion of virtue and knowledge
in the English Constitution, would, by such an imputation,
condemn the three noblest assemblies who dignify the
page of that history : The Barons who obtained Manna
Charta from King John ; the Assembly which restored
Charles the Second and Monarchy ; and the Convention at
the Revolution, which placed King William on the Throne,

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CORRESPONDENCE, PROCEEDINGS, &c, MARCH, 1775.

82

and opened the way for the accession of the present Royal
family. These were all Congresses, formed on the same
principles and the same necessities as the late American
Congress.

Thirdly. The supposition would condemn the very
meeting whose publication we are considering. It is called
a meeting of Representatives from New-Jersey and Penn-
sylvania. By what authority did these Representatives
meet ? The discussion of political questions is no part of
the discipline or system of a Religious Society, nor com-
prised within the jurisdiction of any meeting among Friends,
which only affect religious concerns, or the economical af-
fairs of the Society. An extraordinary occasion produced
an extraordinary meeting, but not an illegal one ; because
there is no law which prohibits the King's subjects from
meeting to discuss any political questions. In this case it
was a laudable one, as its intention must have been to make
a timely provision against those irregularities and tumults
which publick commotions often create.

Fourthly. That the present Congresses and Committees
were not meant, appears from the conduct of the worthy
Friend whose name is to the publication, who has been
present in such Assemblies, and took an active part in the
choice of the Committee last summer ; measures which
could not have had his concurrence, if included under any
of the descriptions of a riot, rout, illegal combination, or
assembly. I might add, that several respectable members
of this Society have not only served on former Commit-
tees of this kind, and acquiesced in the present measures,
but have returned their thanks to the Committee of this
City, for an alteration made in disposing or storing their
Goods imported under the Association of the late Con-
gress— procedures wholly inconsistent with the idea of its
being an illegal assembly.

Upon the whole, it is presumed enough has been offered
to show that this Testimony could not be intended to cast
any disrespect upon the cause of publick liberty, much less
to create division or discord. Taken in its true and proper
light, it is calculated to point out those rocks of licentious-
ness and outrage, which often lay concealed under the
smooth surface of the fairest pretensions, and have proved
fatal to the best of causes. It is, indeed, to be wished
it could have derived more respect and authority from the
numbers and weight of the representation. But the inten-
tion certainly has merit, however it may be thought to fall
short in the execution. B. L.

Philadelphia, March 8, 1775.

When those who think themselves entitled to write for
the publick proceed with openness, ingenuity, and candour,
if they do not merit the publick attention and approbation,
they certainly deserve their indulgence. But when any man
undertakes to give the publick advice, and to call upon them
in the warmest and most passionate terms, to follow his direc-
tions, every degree of deceit, hypocrisy, or unfair proceed-
ing, is so far from meriting approbation, that the man who
attempts it deserves to be treated with the utmost indigna-
tion, and to meet with the fate of the worst of villains.

The person who takes an active part in any controversy
carried on in the publick Papers, and desires to enter the
lists as a champion on either side, should be possessed of
that degree of candour and honesty which obliges a man
to enter into the real merits of the cause, and to give a full,
fair, and impartial state of the controversy, in order to en-
title him to a place in any Paper of reputation. When he
has done this, he ought to have full liberty to use every
argument with which reason and truth could supply him ;
but the instant he attempted to impose on the publick by
unfair representations, lies, or assertions without argument,
he should he packed off to the common receptacle of all
such materials.

In our present contest with Great Britain, ttie question
is, Whether the Parliament of Great Britain has a right
to make Statutes which shall bind us in all cases whatever?
Now, if any one, without ever bringing this question in
view, or attempting to discuss it, will undertake, by hard
names, to frighten us into a submission, I think he wants
that candour and ingenuity winch alone can entitle him to
a place in a Paper ol character, and his manner of pro-
ceeding gives the Printer thereof a just right to refuse his
lucubrations.

Fourth Series. — Voi>. II.

I believe I may appeal even to our adversaries, whether
the writers in favour of our cause have not always begun
by stating the case, as far as they intended to touch upon it,
in the fairest and fullest manner, and then discussed it by
arguments drawn from the nature of God and man, and the
well-known and fundamental principles of the British Con-
stitution. Had their opponents acted with equal ingenuity,
it would have saved much trouble, wholly prevented all
that heat and acrimony which has appeared at one time or
another, and saved the pains of replying to many produc-
tions against which nothing but the fear of their affecting
weak minds could ever induce any friend to his Country
to take up the pen. Of this kind is the piece signed
Phileirene, which contains nothing but bold assertions,
couched in strong language, and most of them notorious false-
hoods. Since this writer, at the request of A Friend to the
Constitution, has been indulged with a republication in
a reputable and extensively circulating Paper, I would
beg leave to select a few of his assertions, and request the
Friend to the Constitution to support them by the facts he
refers to.

1. "That a submission to the laws and authority of
Great Britain, in the cases we complain of, would alone
make us a free, wealthy, and happy people." In order to
make this assertion good, it will be necessary to prove that
submission to laws neither made by ourselves, nor by our
Representatives, and to be taxed by men who have no in-
terest in our affairs, constitute true British freedom ; that
taking our Money from us without our consent will in-
crease our wealth ; that to be deprived of Trial by Jury
will enlarge and confirm personal security ; that our hap-
piness consists in submitting to become the slaves of the
worst sort of tyrants, viz : of such, that every alleviation
of their own misery must be obtained by a proportional
increase of ours ; and that to be removed for trial to Great
Britain is preferable to being tried by a Jury of the vicin-
ity. And as all our Assemblies, from the one end of the
Continent to the other, have petitioned against these Laws
as infringements of their rights and privileges, it may not
be amiss to point out to them the errour of their proceed-
ings, and to prove that they are not intended by the Con-
stitution for Legislators. For, if the British Parliament
has a right to bind us in all cases whatever, it is impossible
for them to have the same right — the one right necessarily
destroying the other.

2. " That we are arrived to such a pitch of infatuation,
as to be unwilling to confine ourselves within the bounds,
or to submit to the Laws prescribed by the Government
to which we are subjects ; that our conduct has justly
merited punishment and contempt, and must inevitably
sink us in infamy and obscurity ; that our wickedness and
folly is such, that we set about a reformation of a Govern-
ment already the envy of every other Nation, and are de-
termined to accomplish our views, or perish in the attempt ;
and that not the united misery of all our fellowmen, nor the
destruction of the peace and good order of the world, will
ever deter us from our desperate undertaking ; but that rather
than fail in our enterprise, we will exult to introduce anar-
chy and confusion into the State, and glory to riot upon the
miseries of mankind in private life." That masterly pen
which drew a finished character of the most consummate
villain that ever breathed on the earth, fell greatly short of
this picture, and, had he lived to this day, must have ob-
tained some master strokes from Phileirene. But Cataline
himself never equalled this. How Phileirene could at-
tempt to fix such a character upon a people whose most
violent struggle to preserve themselves from a ten years'
perseverance in oppressive measures has been a Non-Im-
portation Agreement, is yet more extraordinary than the
celerity and cheerfulness with which he asserts such infa-
mous lies. I beg pardon for the expression ; I forgot that
the truth of it can be proved by facts.

3. " That we aim at an independency, replete with the
most distressing calamities, destructive mischiefs, and aggra-
vated miseries ; and that the darling object of our wishes
is an Independent Republic." In supporting this, it will
be necessarv to prove that the Congress, which spoke the
sentiments "of all those whose conduct Phileirene con-
demns, and whose measures every Colony in America has
adopted, mistook its own intentions, when it absolutely de-
nied the charge in the strongest terms, and defied its most

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81

inveterate enemies to make good the charge. It will also
be proper to make out to the satisfaction of impartial peo-
ple, that our contending for British Liberty will be the
sure means of being deprived of it, if we should prove
successful.

4. "That our expectations of accomplishing our under-
taking, are mad, and must at once appear groundless, when
we consider that the Throne was never more secure in the
hearts of a free and happy people ; the Nation never more
powerful in its resources, nor more respected abroad ; nor
Administration more firmly established in tin' esteem and
approbation of a great majority of the people, than at this
day."

That these assertions may not meet with unexpected
difficulties in the proof, it will not be amiss to lay before
you the present situation of Great Britain, that, having
this in view, the demonstration may be suited accordingly.
Her credit depending on her Trade, and a principal part of
that cut oft' by our Non-Importation Agreement. Ireland,
though in slavery, poverty, distress, and unarmed, hitherto
scarcely restrained within bounds by the dread of a military
force, but now reduced to that last stage of oppression which
makes a wise man mad. Scotland, filled with resentment
for the injuries offered her by the English. The English
full of hatred and indignation against the Scotch, for the
undue preference showed to them by the Court. The Cap-
ital of the Kingdom exerting its utmost influence against the
present Administration ; and in all probability she will find her
measures supported by the united efforts of all the Trading-
Cities and Manufacturing Towns in the Kingdom. A gene-
ral discontent through that Nation, on account of the Act of
Parliament which establishes the Roman Catholick Religion
in Canada. France professing the most pacifick disposition,
but continually augmenting her Sea and Land Forces. Spain
arming as fast as possible, and insulting her in almost every
quarter of the globe — she bearing these insults with the
tamest submission, and unable, in the space of twelve
years, to prevail upon her to pay the Manilla Ransom.
Portugal, though under her protection, insulting her Mer-
chants and restricting her Trade. It is too degrading to
mention the Dey of Algiers. Her Army and Navy not
fifty thousand strong, yet the annual expense of the Na-
tion near Ten Millions Sterling. This sum raised with dif-
ficulty when she enjoyed all our Customs and Duties.
These being stopped, there will be a failure of One Mil-
lion at least, which must be raised by additional Taxes laid
on those who are scarcely able to bear their present load.
A debt of Forty Millions due to the Hollanders, who are
a very jealous people, and who know that the security of
their money depends entirely on the Trade of the Nation,
which must suffer a most dreadful shock from our Non-
Importation Agreement. Should they become fearful, and
begin to draw their money out of the publick funds, all
the circulating cash in the Kingdom would not more than
pay the half of it. The Emperour of Germany at the head
of two hundred thousand, and the King of Prussia at the
head of three hundred thousand well disciplined Troops,
overawing all her Continental allies, and in a capacity to
take possession of her German Dominions whenever they
please. Russia aiming at Commerce, and becoming a ri-
val maritime Power. America determined to resist every
further attempt which she shall make to enslave her, by
force, and accessible only by her capital Cities, and those
protected by a debt of about Six Millions Sterling, every
Shilling of which must be totally lost, if our Cities are in-
jured ; besides, if matters should become more critical,
these will be principally inhabited by the tools of the Min-
istry, for all such will be obliged to fly to them for safety,
as is evident from the present state of Boston; which will
be a very considerable additional security to our Cities.
Able and judicious Statesmen in England, though uncon-
nected with America, giving their opinion in favour of our
conduct, and openly declaring the inability of the Nation
to subjugate the Colonies by force. These are some of the
facts, against which others of superiour force, certainty, and
weight, must be produced, or it will be in vain to attempt
to prove that the Nation was never more powerful in re-
sources.

I am under the necessity of passing by, for the present,
a multitude of assertions equally in need of facts to sup-
port them ; but as there is one or two of a curious and ex-

traordinary nature, and which I long to see demonstrated,
I must crave the indulgence of the publick a few moments
longer.

It is asserted " that the people in America can have no
idea of the various manoeuvres, evolutions, marchings,
countermarchings, advancing, retreating, breaking, rallying,
fee, which are practised in the Army, and, therefore, they
will be astonished, confounded, and put to flight by attacks
from every quarter." Now, a demonstration of this asser-
tion must be a great curiosity, and will please many. But
as one circumstance seems to make against it, I would be
glad not to have it forgotten, viz: that though we may have
little idea of their rallying, yet we must be allowed to have
some confused notions of their breaking and running, espe-
cially such of us as can remember that when they were
broke, within about forty miles of Fort Pitt, by a handful
of Canadians and bush-fighting Indians, they never stop-
ped flying until they arrived at Philadelphia. Impar-
tiality, however, obliges me to mention one circumstance,
which is rather in favour of some part of the assertion, viz:
that the Americans have not a true idea of breaking and
running, though it at the same time shows that they know
how to rally ; what I allude to is the behaviour of about
three hundred Virginians, who, on that occasion, volun-
tarily formed, and covered the retreat of the flying Regu-
lars. Ticonderoga has also furnished some of us with
similar ideas. It is also asserted, " that at one time we
will seem to have only a handful of Troops to encounter,
and the next minute they will appear almost innumerable,
merely from their dexterous movements, and the different
situations in which they will be placed ; and that, should
we be able to perfect ourselves in this part of the discipline,
(which we never can, as we are incapable of forming the
least idea of it,) our skill will rebound with tenfold destruc-
tion upon our own heads, for by far the greatest part, when
matters shall be brought to such extremities, will declare
on the loyal side, and extricate themselves from the guilt
of rebellion by the most vigorous efforts to suppress it."

I think it will be quite as hard to prove these assertions
as to square the circle. It will require both fluxions, and
an infinite series to do it. To make an handful of men
appear almost innumerable to a people who know that
every addition to that handful must first cross the great
Atlantic^, exceeds the power of magick. And 1 should
not like to see it proved, lest it might lessen the merits of
a General, " who, although respected and amiable for his
social virtues, for his prudence, humanity, long-suffering,
and clemency, of which we all cannot but be sensible,
is nevertheless universally allowed to be a brave soldier,
cool, intrepid, watchful, and resolute, and perfectly ac-
quainted with the military art." Now if this be his charac-
ter, how can he be excused for not putting these manoeuvres
in practice, instead of sending for more Troops ? Can it
be imagined that the freemen of the Province of Massa-
chusetts-Bay are so determined as to refuse submission, if
they saw an innumerable host of such well disciplined
Troops ready to fall upon them? They must be heroes
indeed, or at least resolved to lose life and liberty together
if they are.

I will take no advantage of his glaring contradictions
in one paragraph, representing us as the most resolute
and desperate of men, who have no regard for our lives,
and that we are willing to sacrifice all that is dear to us to
obtain our beloved point ; and in the next assures us that
we will by and by be so terrified at the name of Rebellion,
that we will murder one another to prove our loyalty. I
will not require the facts which can prove these inconsist-
encies. I am not inclined to raise a suspicion of the abili-
ties or courage of the British Troops. There are many
circumstances which present themselves at this day, to
show they have a tincture of the true British spirit still
remaining, though the laws and regulations to which they
are subject are of the most slavish, arbitrary, and despotick
kind. It is hard to divest a real Englishman of his love
of liberty, or admiration of those who are willing to risk
their all in defence of it. There may be some mongrels
among them, as well as among ourselves; yet the reluc-
tance of the Officers to the service, and the desertion of
the Soldiers, prove that they are not divested of feeling,
and far from becoming Ministerial butchers. If things
should come to extremities it is not to be doubted but

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86

they will discover further signs of a true English spirit.
However, should they prove as loyal as Phileirene wishes
them to be, twenty riflemen will, I doubt not, prove a
match for any ten of them ; and if we reason from former
experience, Braddock and Howe have left us a proportion
still more favourable. As to the common Soldiers, they
have no great inducement to make them fight. If they
will fight for pay, I think we could increase their wages.
At any rate, a groat a day to feed upon, half an hour's
exercise in the week, and ten years' loitering in crowded
barracks, can give them but an indifferent title to the
character of true British veterans.

That our skill in the military art, could we but attain it,
would rebound with ten-fold destruction on our own heads,
is rather hard. For shall we take that immense pains
which it will cost an American to acquire it, and which
alone can put us on an equal footing with these veterans,
and then turn it against ourselves? This would be an in-
fatuation which Phileirene and all his fellow-blusterers have
not been able to accomplish, and, I fear, never will, not-
withstanding the facts which can demonstrate its truth.

I once thought of touching on the doctrineof Rebellion and
our duty to God; but as the facts necessary to demonstrate
his assertions on this head might border on impiety, and the
attempt itself would be blasphemous, I would not have it
entered on ; for if one man sin against another, the Judge
may plead for him ; but if a man sin against God, who
shall entreat for him ? Yet the matter may be settled in
few words. God is certainly on the side of justice and the
oppressed, and the Devil on the side of injustice and op-
pression. They may be considered as the leaders in this
cause, and every man as actuated by the spirit of his leader.
I will leave it to Phileirene and the world to determine
which spirit he and his party are inspired with.

To the Friend to the Constitution :

Sir: As you may be acquainted with facts which have
escaped the notice of all beside yourself; as you may be
able to defend your cause by arguments, which, though
hitherto concealed, will strike conviction into the hearts of
the most stupid, insensible, and obstinate bigots ; and as
your proofs may be derived from sources hitherto unex-
plored by any other; 1 call upon you to exercise those
political talents and abilities which, doubtless, you are
possessed of, in demonstrating the truth of the foregoing
assertions of Mr. Phileirene. Should the task prove hard
or laborious, you must comfort yourself with this reflec-
tion, that it is the only means whereby you can prove
yourself possessed of that candour and honesty, which is
so rare amongst your party. If, in the course of your de-
monstration, this one point should fall in our favour, viz :
that the present is a struggle of might against right, and
that right is on our side, we have little to fear, even should
every other assertion of Phileirene prove true. For when
was arbitrary power successful in Great Britain 1 Not in
the days of Charles the First, nor yet at the Revolution.
William the Bastard is the principal instance of the kind
I now recollect. If we be permitted, then, to draw any
conclusions from former experience, while we have a legiti-
mate King on the Throne we have little to fear. Had
arbitrary power succeeded in the days of Charles the First,
or James the Second, we should at present be in the same
state or a worse than the people of France. Now would
you, Sir, or Phileirene, or any of your party, rather find
yourselves in this state and condition, than that your fore-
fathers had pursued the measures they then adopted ?
According as you answer this question, we shall be con-
demned or justified, even should we be forced to draw the
sword. A Lover of English Liberty.

To the Author of a , -mphlet, entitled " A Candid Exam-
ination of the Mutual Claims of Great Britain and
her Colonies, $•<;."

Philadelphia, March 8, 1775.

Sir : When your pamphlet was first put into my hands,
I accidentally opened it at the last page but one, and was
pleased to see the following words : " Thus I have, my
dear countrymen, with the utmost candour and freedom,
and the most benevolent regard for your true interest and
happiness, laid before you the Constitutional extent of Par-

liamentary jurisdiction, and deduced your rights from the
most solid foundation, and explained your duties." Pleased
with this declaration, I eagerly began a careful perusal of
the pamphlet ; but what was my surprise to find that in-
stead of deducing the rights of America from a " most
solid foundation," you have laboured to show that America
has no rights at all ; and that we are the most abject slaves
on earth. This set me upon an examination of the prin-
ciples on which you have grounded your arguments ; and
from this examination it evidently appeared that you have
ignorantly misunderstood or wilfully misapplied them.

The first principle which you lay down, and which, in-
deed, is the groundwork of your- whole performance, is
this : " There must be in every State a supreme Legisla-
tive power of the Colonies, and that the Colonists are,
therefore, subject to its laws."

It may be proper before we proceed, to observe, that
though there is no difficulty in laying down general princi-
ples on the nature of Government, yet it requires judg-
ment and understanding to make a proper application of
them. If it shall appear that your several quotations are
totally inapplicable to the situation of the Colonies, with
respect to their connection with Great Britain, your argu-
ments must fall, of course, to the ground. And I appre-
hend I shall not only be able to make this appear, but
clearly to show, as I said before, that you either did not
understand the authors quoted, or that you have wilfully
misapplied them.

Whoever has read, and is conversant with the authors on
Government, will agree that whenever the above principle
is laid down, it amounts in substance to this, and this only,
viz : Wherever men have, from a state of nature, entered
into a state of society, there must be somewhere a power
lodged to make laws obligatory on all the members of that
society. This power of making laws, however modified,
is called the Legislative power ; and any one will readily
assent to the necessity there is, that this Legislative power
should be supreme over the members ; for if, after the Le-
gislative power has ordained any thing to be done, the
members should afterwards be left to their own choice to
adopt or reject it, it follows clearly there must be an end of
Government. Now let us consider whether this principle
is not fully satisfied in the several Governments of Ameri-
ca, without having recourse for an application of it to the
Parliament of Great Britain. I will undertake to show
that the principle is applicable to our several Governments,
and to them only ; and this I shall do from your own quo-
tations.

Mr. Locke tells us that " The first fundamental positive
law of all Commonwealths is the establishing the Leois-
lative power; this Legislative is not only the supreme
power of the Commonwealth, but is sacred and unalterable
in the hands where the community have placed it." It can-
not be denied. It is as well established as the Legislature
of Great Britain; its powers within the bounds of the
Province are as supreme and unlimited as the power of the
Legislature of Great Britain. Here, then, the principle
applies ; — as there is a Legislative power in the Province
of Pennsylvania, that power is, from the nature of all Go-
vernments, supreme, and all the inhabitants of the Province
must be obedient to its laws. But to proceed : " There
can be but one supreme power, which is the Legislative ;
to which all the rest are, and must be subordinate." This
principle is certainly right ; but let us see how judiciously
it is applied. Certainly in the Province of Pennsylvania
there neither is nor can be more than one supreme power,
viz: the Legislature of the Province. To them the seve-
ral Corporations, and other inferiour jurisdictions must sub-
mit. But observe how completely wretched you aim to
make the Americans. You quote Locke to prove that
there can be but one supreme power, which is the Legis-
lature ; if so, and if the Parliament, as you say, is the Le-
gislature of the Colonies, it follows that we have hitherto
been deceived, and that there is no such thing as a Colony
Legislature in existence. But, Sir, this supreme power,
the community of Pennsylvania have undeniably vested in
the Assembly and Governour, subject to our Sovereign's
negative ; and, of course, the Legislature of Great Britain
is not the Legislature of Pennsylvania ; for it would be
" irregular and monstrous" to suppose us subject to two
Legislatures. But this will not satisfy you. You will have

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CORRESPONDENCE, PROCEEDINGS, be., MARCH, 1775.

88

it, that we shall bo subject, not according to Mr. Locke,
to "one" bat to two supreme Legislative powers. Your
quotation from Achtrley is more pointed : " The supreme
power in every Government and Nation is the Legislative
power of making and altering those laws of it by which
every man is to be bound, and to which he is to yield obe-
dience." Is not every man in Pennsylvania bound by,
and is he not to yield obedience to such laws as the !
lature of the Province shall enact? Every man will an-
swer affirmatively ; if so, is not this Legislative power of
Pennsylvania, according to the express words of the above
quotations, the supreme power in this Government? Can
we then be subject to two supreme Legislative powers?
Hut let us see whether you will not yourself prove sufficient
for my argument. Page 43 you say, " Each Colony in
the present Constitution, is capable, by its own internal
Legislature, to regulate its own police within its particular
circle of territory ; but here it is confined : thus far, and
no further can its authority extend." This, I hope, is suf-
ficient to show that each Legislature is supreme within its
own circle ; and that this is all that is required to satisfy
the principle on which you have benevolently endeavoured
to build your system of tyranny.

You proceed next to a perplexed, inaccurate, and de-
fective delineation of ihe English Constitution, and of the
different capacities of the King, in order to point out the
absurdity (as you call it) of the Colonies in acknowledging
allegiance to the King, and denying obedience to the laws
of Parliament. In this also, 1 apprehend, you are equally
wrong. Let us attend to your argument. " To the King,
in his representative capacity, and as supreme executor
of the laws, made by a joint power of him and others, the
oaths of allegiance are taken ; and by him, that obedi-
ence in the subjects to the laws, which entitle them to pro-
tection in their persons and properties, is received. Is it
then to him, as representative of the State, and executor
of its laws, that the Americans profess their allegiance ?
This cannot be ; because it would be owing an obedience to
the laws of the State which he represents. It would be
easy to prove that your idea of allegiance is totally defec-
tive; but as I intend only to expose the fallacy of your
arguments, without advancing any plan of my own, it will
perhaps be more satisfactory to refute you from your own
words.

We Americans can, then, it seems, owe no allegiance to
the King without involving in it a submission to the laws
of the supreme Legislature of Great Britain, .of which he
is representative. Strange, indeed, that even our allegiance
shall be drawn in as an argument in favour of Parliamen-
tary power ! But, Sir, let me, as a Pennsylvanian, address
you and examine your argument. " The allegiance I owe
to the King is due to him in his representative capacity,
as supreme executor of the laws made by a joint power of
him and others." Agreed, Sir, for argument's sake ; but
is not the King vested with the Executive power of this
Government ? Is he not the representative of our whole
State, to see that our laws are duly carried into execution ?
And is not (on your principles) an oath of allegiance by a
Pennsylvanian to the King, made to him as supreme exe-
cutor of the laws of Pennsylvania ? And if, Sir, an oath
of allegiance, taken by a subject in England to the King,
is to him as representative of the supreme Legislature of
Great Britain, I ask, where is the absurdity of supposing
an oath of allegiance taken by a Pennsylvanian, to be
taken by him to the King, as the representative of the
Legislative power of Pennsylvania, which is the supreme
power of the Government in which he lives? There can
be none. But further, Sir; does not every American ac-
knowledge that he is bound by the common law of Eng-
land, and such statutes as were made before the settlement
of the Colonies, and which are applicable to our situation?
Is not the King supreme executor of these laws? And
where is the impropriety of supposing the oath of allegiance
to relate to him as supreme executor of these laws, which
we acknowledge do bind us, and at the same time reject-
ing the absurd and dangerous idea of its including an obli-
gation to be bound by every law that the British Parlia-
ment has, or may make ?

I have sufficiently destroyed, I trust, the two main pillars
ol your system. But not content will) endeavouring to
prove the Americans subject to the uncontrolled power of

the British Parliament, you are for reducing the Legisla-
ture-: of the several Colonies to the degrading situation of
mere corporations. " The original intent of the preroga-
tive, under which the inhabitants of particular districts of
territory have been incorporated into bodies politick, was
tu enable the representative of the State to form inferiour
communities, with municipal rights and privileges ; this pr» -
rogative is very ancient; William the Conqueror granted
to London two Charters," &.c.

If we examine into the nature of corporations erected
by the prerogative, we shall find you are still unhappy in
the application of your principles. That the King, by his
prerogative, may erect the inhabitants of particular districts
into inferiour communities, with "municipal rights and pri-
vileges," is readily granted. But it requires more than
this to show that the Colonies are mere Corporation1;.
After granting all you call for, your conclusions do not fol-
low ; lor though, as you say, the King may incorporate
inferiour communities with municipal rights, yet it does not
follow that the King can grant to mere corporations full
Legislative power. Let any one consider what is the ob-
ject of corporations, and the purpose for which they are
granted, and the comparison must vanish. But, Sir, is not
the King visiter of all corporations ? And has not the
Court of King's Bench a power to inquire into, and cor-
rect all the irregularities that have arisen in any of them ?
And is this, Sir, one of the il solid foundations" from which
you have deduced the rights of Americans 1 Certainly
you will have the thanks of the British Ministry for going
further than even they have dared. They contend only
that we are subject to the power of Parliament: You, Sir,
go further, and meritoriously endeavour to prove that we
not only are subject to Parliament, but to the Court of
King's Bench, where that friend to liberty, Lord Mansfield,
now presides.

Let us next examine your favourite position, that the
rights of the Commons to a share in legislation is derived
from, and represent the lands within the Realm. Having,
as you think, fully shown this, you proceed (no doubt,
with " ineffable pleasure") to show that, by necessary con-
sequence, the Americans have lost, not the right, but the
exercise of the right of being represented in the British
Parliament, though they still continue subject to all its
laws. What does this amount to ? Why, you have a right,
but it is impossible you can derive any advantage from it.
You have a right, but it is impossible you can exercise it.
Want of right and want of remedy, is said, in law, to be the
same. What an insult to an oppressed people, to tell
them they have a right, but that it is impossible they can
either exercise it, or derive any advantage from it. But
let us next examine your position, and see if it is well
founded. I apprehend it is not, and that your idea of
representation is partial and inadequate. That the landed
interest is represented in part, is granted, and you might
have saved yourself the trouble of several tedious pages to
prove what every man would immediately assent to. But
is the landed the only interest that is represented ? Or,
does representation arise from land only ? I answer both
in the negative ; and thus I prove it : The Commons is the
Democratick part of the English Constitution. In small
Democracies, the people should, and in many (in Greece)
they did exercise the Legislative power in their aggregate
capacity. In so large a State as England, such a tumul-
tuous meeting would be attended with danger and inconve-
niences ; and, therefore, it is provided by the English Con-
stitution, that the people shall exercise this power by their
Representatives, which it would be inconvenient should
be done in their collective capacity. This, Sir, is the
principle of representation, and by which every man of
property in England has a voice in Parliament. It is
upon this principle that the landed interest is represented
by their Knights of the Shire. This, Sir, is not the origin,
but the consequence of representation. Are not the Citi-
zens and Burgesses chosen by the Mercantile or Trading
interest of the Nation ? Has not every man who is free of
a Borough a vote, and consequently, is he not represent-
ed in Parliament, although he has not a foot of land ?
In short, the whole of representation, according to the
English Constitution, is this : in all free Governments a
branch of the Legislative power should reside in the
people. In so large a Government as England, this i

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90

practicable to be exercised in their collective capacities ;
from hence arose the necessity of representation, upon the
genuine principles of which, every member of the commu-
nity should have a voice. In forming this representation,
care was taken of the landed interest, and Knights ol the
Shirt were elected by proprietors of land to represent it.
I3ut this alone would have been a partial, inadequate repre-
sentation ; care was also taken to have the trading interest
represented, that so not the landed interest only, but the
whole body of the people should be represented by the
House of Commons: in choosing whom, says a learned
Judge, there is scarce a free agent in England who has
not a vote. This subject might be continued further if
try, hut enough has been said to show your idea of
representation to be erroneous.

According to you, Sir, we are bound by all laws made
bj the British Parliament. We have a right to be repre-
sented there, but it is impossible we can enjoy that right.
So that the " persons, lives, and estates of the subjects in
America are at the disposal of an absolute power, without
the least security for the enjoyment of their rights." This
is a dreadful situation! And the very reading it is suffi-
cient to freeze the blood of any man that has a spark of
liberty in him. How it has rouseil your passions ! How
animated is your observations on it! You say, '-most
Certain it is, that this is a situation which people accus-
tomed to liberty cannot sit can;/ under." Sit easy under
slavery! It is a situation thai all your sophistry, threats,
or the arms of Britain will never make an American sit
under at all.

But now the curtain is drawn up — the plan of union
gentlemen, which is to restore us to the enjoyment of our
lost rights! Having shown, as you think, that we have no
rights at all, you very patriotically propose a plan, by which,
if the British Administration pleases, we may be restored
to some. But the very position tells us we are slaves.
If our restoration to rights depends upon the pleasure and
will of the British Legislature, they are our masters ; we
must submit to their pleasure. But send the author of the
plan over as a delegate to solicit your cause, " the ex-
pense will be trifling ;" it is a task he would, no doubt,
perform " with ineffable pleasure."

You say, Sir, you have often conversed with the author
of the plan, and well understand his principles. Pray, Sir,
ask him whether he did not, in a Committee of Congress,
deny, from the same learned quotations about landed pro-
perty, the power of Parliament to bind the Colonies in
any case. His conclusions from the same premises were,
I am told, very different from what you have drawn in this
pamphlet. He insisted that the right of English liberty
is a right to participate in legislation ; that as the lands in
America are not represented, Americans could not be re-
presented, and not being represented, they, of course, could
not be bound ; from hence he drew an inference of the ne-
cessity of some plan of union. Did he not, Sir, on this
principle, deny the power of Parliament even to regulate
Trade ? And did he not even vote against it in Con-
gress ?

Much has been said against the Congress for rejecting
this plan. The matter, 1 am told, stands thus: When it
was first introduced in Congress, most of the members
heard it with horrour, as an idle, dangerous, whimsical,
.Ministerial plan. Some of the " Pennsylvania Oracles,"
Friends, with whom infinite pains had been taken before
hand, moved to have it committed. This was rejected ;
tbefl a motion was made that the plan might lie on the
table, to be taken up at any future day. This was carried
in the affirmative. When the minutes came to be revised,
towards the end of the sitting, the plan was omitted. Here
the patriot raged, and insisted on bis right to have it on
the minutes. The question was put, and a great majority
thought the insetting it in the Journal would be disgracing
their records, and accordingly rejected it. Certainly in
such a society, every question must, of course, be deter-
mined by a majority. If, then, a majority were of opinion
that the inserting it on their Journal would be disgraceful
and injurious, they unquestionably bad a right to reject it.
If his plan was defensible, why did he not enter into the
argument with a gentleman from Virginia, who challenged
him to it, and who said he could prove it to be big with
destruction to the Colonies ? 'Tis true he did, when thus

called upon, say that he would defend it, if the Con
would appoint a day for that purpose. But this, Sir, was
when all was hurry, and the forms of business only delayed
their breaking up. Besides, it was a little remarkable,
that this " Oracle." was not ready to undertake the defence
of a plan, when he had been for months haranguing and
caballing about it.

You have mentioned some of the objections that v
hinted against the plan, for it is false to say that the merits
of it were ever regularly debated in Congress. One of
those objections is, that the members of the Grand Coun-
cil would be corrupted, and betray the interest of the
Colonies. To this you answer, " that if American virtue
was not firm enough to maintain liberty, it could be sup-
ported by no wisdom or policy whatever. But supposing
the people to be in so corrupt a state, yet as the election
was to be triennial, they might change them every three
years, fk.c. ; and besides, to avoid all risks of the Country,
they might, by altering one word, as the plan, make the
election duannual or annual, which must certainly remove
the objection." No, Sir! it will not do yet, not even with
the alteration. For let us once suppose this darling plan
executed, an American Parliament met. Suppose when
thus met, a motion is made, showing the inconvenience and
difficulties of frequent elections, and proposing the making
a law extending their political existence for seven years;
precedents may be pleaded for it. But, Sir, supposing this
Parliament to be but annual, may they not in one year,
one month, one day, nay, in one hour, pass a vote, which
may forever annihilate the liberties of all America 1 But
will you not trust the virtue of Americans? Sir, I entertain a
high reverence for the virtue of my countrymen. But the
trust is too sacred. Permit me to tell you, that neither
" wisdom or policy" would dictate the leaving the liberties
of a Country to the virtues of any men, however great or
conspicuous. We know too well the fallibility of human
nature, and both " wisdom and policy" teach us to sup-
port our liberties with other props and pillars. I did not
intend to have touched on the merits of the plan, but when
1 saw one of the objections to it so mutilated, I thought
proper to state the objections more fully and forcibly. The
whole of the plan is confused, impracticable, and danger-
ous, as probably soon will be shown.

I have reserved till now, purposely, my remarks on the
gross abuse and calumny thrown out in your pamphlet
against the Congress. How unfair, how ungenerous, to
take detached parts of their proceedings, and from thence
draw inferences as to their principles ! How dare you, Sir,
in the face of America, assert that they have proposed no
plan of accommodation ? That every page conveys senti-
ments of independence ? Have they not expressly said,
(and is it not the groundwork of their whole proceedings,)
place America in the situation she was in before 1763, and
all our complaints will subside? Is this not proposing a
plan of accommodation ? Yes, Sir, and the only reasonable
constitutional plan that can be devised. Tear away that
system of Revenue Laws, and their attendants, and peace
will be restored. And is this, Sir, talking of independence ?
Consider the Statutes prior to 1763, to which America con-
cedes obedience ; consider the acknowledged prerogatives
of the King of Great Britain, in all the Colonies: the ap-
peal to the King and Council from judicial determinations ;
his negative to laws; and let any impartial man say, whe-
ther this is a system of independence. The labours and
virtue of the Congress in the cause of liberty, will, to latest
be revered and esteemed, while you and your attempts
will only be remembered to show posterity that even in
these days of liberty, America had some degenerate sons —
a Jeff cries and a Filmer.

But, good Sir, before we part, let me ask you how you
came to publish your friend to the world as a man of no
principle or virtue. I see he has signed the Association.
I am told he signed the Petition to the King. I find in
the Association he says, (for it is certainly the act of all
who signed it,) "the present unhappy situation of our
affairs is occasioned by a ruinous system of Colony ad-
ministration, adopted by the British Ministry about the
year 1763, evidently calculated for enslaving those Colo-
nies." And, Sir, 1 find further, that he did, for himself
and those he represented, firmly agree and associate, un-
der the sacred ties of virtue, honour, and love of his Coun-

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92

try., to carry the Association into execution. Let us now
hear your account of your friend's conduct. Deluded by
hopes that his plan would be considered, he was led weak-
ly to sign the Association. And your inference is plain,
that he is released from the obligation, because he was
disappointed in his expectation. What, Sir, would your
friend bind not only himself but his constituents to the per-
formance of an agreement which must, in his opinion, lead
to their destruction ? Does his notions of the " sacred ties
of honour, virtue, and love of his Country," sit so easy on
him, that he can enter into them to carry a favourite politi-
cal point, and shake them off at pleasure, when his views
are disappointed ? One of the Pennsylvania Delegates,
who dissented on the Association, and could not agree to
carry into execution, staid away and declined signing it.
I have now done with you. My view in vvtiting these
hasty remarks was not merely to defend the Congress, but
to remove any bad impressions from your ill-grounded,
base, and illiberal attack on them. To the impartial pub-
lick I submit how far I have succeeded.

CUMBERLAND COUNTY (MASSACHUSETTS) CONVENTION.

At a Convention of Delegates from the several Towns
in the County of Cumberland, held at the Court-House in
Falmouth, Wednesday, March 8, 1775,

Enoch Freeman, Chairman.

Adjourned to the Assembly Room, twelve o'clock.

Met at the Assembly Room, according to adjournment.

The following new Members were admitted, viz :

From North Yarmouth — The Hon. Jeremiah Pow-
ell, Esquire, and Jonas Mason, Esquire.

From New Glocester — Mr. Abel Davis and Mr.
Moses Merril.

Resolved, That this Convention do earnestly recom-
mend to the several Towns in this County strictly to ob-
serve the Resolutions of the Provincial Congress with
respect to paying their Province Taxes to Henry Gard-
ner, Esquire, of Stow ; and considering the alarming situa-
tion which this Province is now unhappily brought into, it
is further recommended that they comply with this Resolve
as soon as possible.

Then adjourned to Thursday morning, nine o'clock.

Thursday, March 9, 1775.

Met, according to adjournment.

Whereas, for the information of the inhabitants of the
remote Towns of this County, several of the Members
thereof are desirous of knowing the circumstances that
attend the importation of certain Goods which have arrived
in the harbour of Falmouth, from Bristol, since the first of
February last,

Voted, That Mr. Parsons, Clerk of the Committee of
Inspection for said Falmouth, be desired to attend on this
Convention, with the proceedings of said Committee re-
specting said Goods.

Mr. Parsons accordingly attended with said proceed-
ings, which being read,

Voted, That Captain Thomas Coulson, the Importer
of said Goods, be desired to attend on this Convention.

Voted, That a Committee of three persons wait on
Captain Coulson, to desire his attendance.

Voted, That Mr. lsley, Col. Mitchel, and Col. Thomp-
son, be of this Committee.

Captain Coulson accordingly attended, and being asked
for a manifest of the cargo brought for him by a vessel which
lately arrived from Bristol, he presented to this Conven-
tion a manifest of two hogsheads of Lines and sundry Rig-
ging, Sails, and Stores for a new Ship lately built by him
in this place, which he said was the original and only ac-
count he had received of said cargo. Being then interro-
gated whether he intended to send the same back to Bris-
tol, agreeable to the opinion of the Committee of Inspec-
tion for the Town of Falmouth, he answered, that he would
send back the vessel with the two hogsheads of Lines,
(when the vessel was repaired,) but that he could not send
back the Rigging, Sails, and Stores, as he wanted them for
his new Shi]), which, he said, he could not send home
without, but that he was willing to let the vessel lay in the
habour with the said Rigging, Sails, and Stores on board,
until the sitting of the Provincial Congress.

Said Coulson was then asked whether he would send
back the said Vessel and Stores to Bristol, if it should he
the opinion of the said Congress that he ought so to do.
He answered that he would, if they would put him in a
way to get his said new Ship home ; but that otherwise he
could not do it.

Captain Coulson was likewise asked whether the articles
contained in the said manifest were all the vessel brought.
He answered that there was nothing else on board said ves-
sel ; that nothing had been taken out of her but a bed be-
longing to one of the sailors, and that nothing should be
taken out till he had the opinion of the Provincial Con-
gress.

Then adjourned to the Library Chamber, three o'clock.
P. M.

Three o'clock, P. M.

Met, according to adjournment.

After a full consideration of the foregoing matter respect-
ing Captain Coulson, it appears to this Convention that
the importation of the aforegoing Rigging, Sails, and Stores,
is a violation of the Continental Association. And whereas
the said Committee of Inspection have given it as their
opinion, that the same ought forthwith to be sent back,
without breaking any of the packages thereof; therefore,

Voted, (by a majority of twenty-three to three,) That
this Convention do highly approve of the proceedings of
said Committee, and we do earnestly request that said
Committee would pursue every measure recommended by
the Association of the Continental Congress for putting
into execution the several articles thereof.

Resolved, That it be recommended, and it is hereby
strongly recommended to the several Towns in this Coun-
ty, that they immediately take effectual care to provide
themselves a stock of Ammunition, double at least to that
required by the Province Law, and such a quantity of
Provisions as may by them respectively be thought neces-
sary for the exigencies of the present season. And as it is
of the utmost importance that husbandry should at this day
be more particularly encouraged, it is earnestly recom-
mended that the inhabitants of this County would exert
themselves, as far as possible, to promote the raising such
necessaries of life as may be suitable to the qualities of their
respective lands.

Voted, That the several Members of this Convention
be and hereby are desired to recommend to the inhabitants
of their several Towns, strictly to adhere to the Resolves
of the Continental and Provincial Congresses. And that
they use their best endeavours to discourage riots, mobs,
and all tumultuous proceedings, and that they would en-
deavour, as much as in them lies, to promote peace, order,
and decorum, as essentially necessary for the safety of the
people at this critical day.

Voted, That such of the proceedings of this Conven-
tion be published as the Falmouth Delegates shall think fit.

Voted, That this Convention be dissolved.

Samuel Freeman, Clerk.

CEORGE MASON TO GEORGE WASHINGTON.

Gunston-Hall, (Virginia,) March 9, 177;">.

Dear Sir: I have at last finished the Potomack River
Bill, which I now send you, together with some very long
remarks thereon, and a letter to Mr. Johnston, into which
you will be pleased to put a wafer, when you forward the
other papers to him. 1 also return the Acts of Assembly,
and Mr. Johnstons notes which you sent me. This affair
has taken me five times as long as I expected ; and I do
assure you I never engaged in any thing which puzzled
me more — there were such a number of contingencies to
provide for, and drawing up laws, a thing so much out of
my way. I shall be well pleased if the pains I have bestow-
ed upon the subject prove of any service to so great an un-
dertaking. But by what I can understand, there will be so
strong an opposition from Baltimore and the head of the
Bay, as will go near to prevent its passage through the
Maryland Assembly in any shape it can be offered.

I suppose you have heard of the late purchase made bv
some North-Carolina gentlemen from the Cherokee In-
dian*, of all the country between the Great Kanawha and
the Tennessee Rivers. I think, considering this Colony-
has just expended about One Hundred Thousand Pounds

93

CORRESPONDENCE, PROCEEDINGS, &c, MARCH, 1775.

94

upon the defence of that country, that this is a pretty hold
stroke of the gentlemen. It is suspected some of our I tr-
ginia gentlemen are privately concerned in it.

I have always ex peeled that the new-fangled doctrine
lately broached, of the Crown having no title beyond the
Alleghany Mountains until after the purchase at Fort
Stanwix, would produce a thousand other absurdities and
squabbles. However, if I am not mistaken, the Crown, at
that Treaty, purchased of the Six Nations all the Lands
as low as the Tennessee River. So now, 1 suppose, we
must have a formal trial, whether the Six Nations or the
Cherokee* had the legal right ; but whether this is to be
one by Ejectment, Writ of Inquiry, Writ of Partition, or
hat other process, let those who invented this curious dis-
nction determine. The inattention of our Assembly to so
rand an object as the right of this Colony to the Western
ands, is inexcusable, and the confusion it will introduce
ndless.
We make but a poor hand of collecting ; very few pay,
lough every body promises, except Mr. Hartshorn, of
Alexandria, who flatly refused ; his conscience, 1 suppose,
would not suffer him to he concerned in paying for the in-
struments of death. Your affectionate humble servant,

G. Mason.
George Washington, Esquire.

tl

Boston, (Monday,) March 13, 1755.

Last Thursday morning, the 9th instant, a countryman
was tarred and feathered, and carried through some of
the streets of this Town by a party of Soldiers, attended
:jy some Officers.

The following is the man's own Deposition relative to
that affair, sworn to before a Magistrate, upon which we
shall make no remarks, but leave the publick to judge of
the conduct of some of those who are said to have been
sent among us to preserve peace and good order, and to
prevent mobs, tumults, and other unlawful assemblies.

Deposition of Thomas Ditson.
I, Thomas Ditson, Jun., of Bilkrica, husbandman, tes-
tify and declare, that while walking in Fore-street, on the
8th of March, in the forenoon, I inquired of some towns-
men, who had any guns to sell? One, whom I did not
know, replied he had a very fine gun to sell. The man
appeared to be a Soldier, and I went with him to a house
where one was, whom the Soldier called Sergeant, and see-
ing some old clothes about the house, I asked whether they
sold such things. The Sergeant replied that they did fre-
quently. I then asked his price for an old red coat, ript to
pieces. He asked Three Shillings and Six Pence Sterling ;
but I refused to give it. Then one McClenchy, the Soldier
I met with at first in the street, said he had some old clothes
to sell, and sent his wife out after them to a man he called
Sergeant, and she soon brought an old jacket and an old
coat. I then asked him if he had any right to sell them,
and the Sergeant said that they frequently sold them, and
he would give me a writing if I desired it ; but said there
was no occasion. I then bought the said coat and jacket,
and gave Two Pistareens, and then put the clothes in a
l>;iLr. which I left behind. After which I went to McClen-
chy's to see his gun, which he said was a very fine piece.
I asked him if he had any right to sell it. He replied he
had, and that the gun was his to dispose of at any time. I
then asked whether the sentry would not take it from me
at the Ferry, as I had heard that some persons had had
(heir guns taken from them, but never thought there was
any law against trading with a soldier. He then told me
he had stood sentry, and that they frequently let them
pass. He then asked me what I would give for the gun.
I told him 1 would give Four Dollars, if there was no risk
in carrying it over the Ferry. He said there was not, and
that I might rely on his word. 1 then agreed to give Four
Dollars for his gun, but did not take it nor pay the money.
Coming away , he followed me down stairs, and said then- was
a Sergeant that had an old rusty piece he would sell cheap.
I asked him his price. He said he would sell it for One
Dollar and a Half, if I would pay the money down ; and
he urged me to take it. I then agreed to give him said
sum. His wife, as he called her, then came down, and
said, McClenchy, what are you going to do to bring that
man into a scrape. I then told them that if there was any

difficulty to give me my money again; but he refused, and
replied his wife made an oration "about nothing, and that
he had a right to sell his gun to any body. I was afraid
from her speaking, that there was something not right in
it, and left the gun ; and coming away, he followed me,
and urged the guns upon me. I told him I had rather not
take them, vfor fear of what his wife said. He then de-
clared there was no clanger, for he had spoken to the Offi-
cer or sentry, who said he had a right to dispose of them,
and urged me to pay the Four Dollars I had offered for the
gun ; which 1 then refused, and desired I might have the
One and Half Dollar back which I had paid him for the
gun. He refused, saying there was no danger, and damned
me for a fool. I then paid him the Four Dollars for the
good gun, but did not receive any one of them. After I
had paid the money, he then said, take care of yourself; and
the first thing 1 saw was some men coming up. 1 then
stept off to go after my great coat, but they followed and
seized me, and carried me to the Guard-house upon Fos-
ter's Wharf. This was about six or seven o'clock in the
evening. When I came into the Guard-house they read
me a law which I never before saw nor heard of. I was
detained there till about seven in the morning, when I ex-
pected I should have been obliged to pay the Five Pounds
mentioned in the law read to me, and hired a Regular to
carry a letter to some friends over the Ferry, which was to
desire them to come to me as quick as possible, with money
to pay my fine. Soon after the Sergeant came in and or-
dered me to strip. I then asked him what he was going
to do with me. He said, damn you I am going to serve
you as you have served our men ; then came in a Soldier
with a bucket of tar and a pillow of feathers. I was then
made to strip, which I did to my breeches ; they then tar-
red and feathered me ; and while they were doing it, an
Officer who stood at the door said, tar and feather his
breeches, which they accordingly did, and 1 was then tarred
and feathered from head to foot, and had a paper read to
me, which was then tied round my neck, but afterwards
turned behind me, with the following words wrote upon it.
to the best of my remembrance : " American Liberty, or
Democracy exemplified in a villian who attempted to entice
one of the Soldiersof His Majesty's Forty-Seventh Regiment
to desert, and take up Arms with Rebels against his King
and Country." I was then ordered to walk out and get into
a chair fastened upon trucks, which I did, when a number of
the King's Soldiers, as I imagined about forty or fifty, arm-
ed with guns and fixed bayonets, surrounded the trucks,
and they marched, with a number of Officers before them,
one of whom I was told was the Colonel of the Forty-Sev-
enth Regiment, who 1 have since heard was named Nesbit,
together with a number of drums and fifes, from the Wharf
up King-street, and down Fore-street, and then through
the main street passing the Governour's house, until they
came to Liberty-tree ; they then turned up Frog-lane, and
made a halt, and a Sergeant, as I took him to be, said,
get down. I then asked him which way I should go. and
he said, where you please. Near the Governour's house,
the inhabitants pressed in upon the Soldiers ; the latter ap-
peared to me to be angry, and I was then afraid they would
have fired, they being ordered to load their muskets, which
they did. Thomas Ditson, Jun.

Suffolk, Boston, ss., March 9. 1775:

The above-named Thomas Ditson, Jun., personally ap-
pearing, maketh solemn oath to the truth of the foregoing
Deposition by him subscribed. Before

Edm. Quincey, Justice of the Peace.

TO THE INHABITANTS OF THE MASSACHUSETTS-BAY.

NO. V.

Boston, March 9, 1775.

My Friends and Fellow-Citizens: In our last we
showed that the torrent of evidence, the run of history,
a series of facts, the scheme of British policy, the prin-
ciples of the English Constitution, and the prevailing sen-
timents of our predecessors, and the English Nation, all
united in support of our claim. Perhaps there is no one
fact in all historick existence of a similar nature, and the
same antiquity, supported by such a variety of arguments
and uniformity of evidence. Was it a truth, that by our
Charter we were to be considered as a distinct State uniting

CORRESPONDENCE, PROCEEDINGS, &c, MARCH, 1775.

96

under one common Sovereign with our Mother Country,
»ild not have reasonably expected fuller proof, at this
day, near a hundred and forty years since. Many truths
more recent have nothing but habit and usage to stand upon.
Evidence, like all other things, wastes by the current of
time. It is diminished in passing from one generation to
another, in the same proportion as it is removed from those
transactions to which it is applicable. That which is cer-
tainty in one age (such is the constitution of human affairs
in the present imperfect state) may become probability the
next, and by a third, dwindle into a bare possibility. It is
a maxim, that where a proposition is attended with as much
evidence as the nature of the thing will admit, and could
reasonably be expected, upon supposition of its truth, there
the mind ought to yield its assent, and embrace the posi-
tion.

As on the one hand it must be confessed there are in-
stances where the Nation hath chosen to consider us as sub-
ject to her supreme authority, and our predecessors, from
an unsuspecting confidence and veneration for their Mother
Country, (that authority not being the object immediately
in view, or the question under consideration) have inadver-
tently done, or omitted to do, that which may be construed
into a seeming concession. And what rights or privileges
are enjoyed by any people under Heaven, which have not
been at one time or another invaded? So, on the other
hand, there are instances where the Nation has disclaimed
this authority ; and our ancestors, whenever it has been
made a question directly, have declared themselves with
spirit, in the strongest terms against it. Supposing, then,
for the present, that nothing absolutely conclusive could be
inferred from the sense of the Nation, or the sentiments of
our predecessors, after the reception of the Charter, it
would not materially affect the argument. For had there
been a perfect harmony of sentiment, and uniformity
of practice, all conspiring to proclaim our union and con-
sequent subjection, it would, indeed, have been circumstan-
tial evidence of a previous connexion; but would not, of
itself, have united us or confirmed our dependance, if we
were not united before. Such evidence, however cogent,
can never invalidate that of a higher nature ; nor is it ad-
missible, where we have direct positive proof. In the pre-
sent case we have the deed of compact, the Charter-rights in
our own hands, under the solemnities of seals, and the estab-
lished formalities of law; we can, therefore, judge for our-
selves, and ought to do it from the perceptions of our own
minds, and not upon the authority of others.

Admitting, for argument's sake, that it was the opinion
of both parlies that this Colony was united to the British
Empire in such a sense as to be subject to her supreme
Legislative authority, and that the subsequent line of con-
duct observed by both corresponded with such an appre-
hension, it only proves them guilty of an egregious mistake,
arising from inattention to consequences, or a confusion of
ideas.

It is admitted by all ; it is an indisputable truth, that our
predecessors came to America with the express and noto-
rious design of enjoying, and in the first instance actually
declared for a free Government. It is equally true that
the British Nation never pretended, nor does she even now
pretend, to any authority over us, which she apprehends
islent with such a Government. This was what was
declared for at the first, and agreed to by all parties as a
leading and controlling principle throughout the whole
transaction. This was the cardinal hinge on which all their
movements were to turn — the broad and permanent basis
on which their civil superstructure was to rise. Every
transaction, therefore, mutual or partial, abhorrent to this
principle, however clear and formal, must be void ab initio,
as founded in errour — going upon a mistaken supposition
of its compatibility with our general position. Suppi
then, that our Charter proved, and it was clearly
of the parties to it, that we were to be bound by li
laws in all cases whatever ; if it can be shown "that such
an agreement was repugnant to their first and common
principle, its obligaiion a founded on mistake, and

void from the beginning. This general agreement that our
Government should be free, dispenses with, and voids the
obligation of the particular one, that it should be subject
to the authority of Parliament, if they are incompatible with
each other.

To a fair and impartial consideration of the consistency
and possible co-operation of these two principles, let us
now afford our close attention. At first blush 1 confess
they strike me as heterogeneous. Let us examine them.
The very terms, Free Governments, plainly suppose that
there are such sort of creatures in being as Governments
that are not free, to which they are opposed. These are
ordinarily called, in common parlance, as well as in techni-
cal language of the law, absolute, arbitrary, tyranniek, des-
potick, &.C., and the subjects of them are, with equal pro-
priety, said to bo in a slate of bondage, servitude, (
age, and slavery.

Tyranny, despotism, and the like, are general abstract
terms, expressive of a certain relation subsisting between
different communities, or different parts of the same com-
munity, similar to that subsisting between a master and his
servant, from which the term slavery, as applicable to
States, probably took its rise. An individual who has the
absolute right to direct the conduct, dispose of ihe property,
and command the services of another, is, with propriety,
called a master. The person who is under an obligation
to obey his commands and submit to his authority, is, in
appellation and reality, his servant. It is this right of com-
manding, and obligation to obey, that constitutes the servi-
tude, and not the actual exercise of it. He is a good mas-
ter that does not use his right, but still he is a master, and
may become a hard — a cruel one, at pleasure.

A community so organized as to have one supreme pow-
er, may be resembled to a single person, which speaks and
commands by the voice of law. If this community has
an absolute right to direct the conduct, dispose of the
property, and command the service of another State ; or,
in other words, to make laws binding upon it in all cases
whatsoever, it stands precisely in the same relation to this
State that a master stands in to his servant; and, of conse-
quence, it is in a condition of complete servility, and the
individuals composing it in abject slavery. The same holds
with respect to different parts of the same State. It is
of no importance as it regards the relation, that the right
or authority is not exercised, or is used with lenity. This,
indeed, may determine the character of the master State,
in point of goodness, but the servile relation still remains.
Soon may it exert itself to its utmost latitude, with un-
bounded rigour and accumulated vengeance. Recent facts
evince the truth of this observation. Look to your Capi-
tal, the head and heart of this Province. Give way to re-
flection for a moment. There you may learn possible pro-
jections from real executions, and argue coming calamities
from the power of afflicting. The question for us to de-
termine, my countrymen, then is, whether we will be slaves
or freemen ; for I defy the veriest Tory of them all. the
accutest Jacobite that ever lived, to difference our case from
the above slated ones.

If our positions are then true, and our reasonings upon
them unsophisticated, the conclusion is irresistible, not only
that we are exempted from the supreme authority of the
British Parliament, but also that she is inconsistent with her-
self in claiming our subjection ; as she does not pretend,
in profession at least, even now, when nothing but her own
power and will bounds her pretensions, to any authority in-
consistent with civil liberty, or the rights of Englishmen :
and yet assumes a power subversive of their real essence,
and very shadows. Such is the conduct of those who sit
at the helm, and by the reins of modern policy have prac-
tised the Nation into present measures. We hope if com-
mon sense, political discernment, and public virtue, have
forsaken the mansions of high life, they are still resident
in the Island, ami will soon unite superiour to opposition.

Perhaps it will be said, as has been often said with little
truth and less knowledge, if we were perfectly independent
in the first formation of our Government, we have rendered
ourselves since dependant by our General Assemblie
cognising the authority of Parliament, and submitting to
her Acts, in various instances ; and by our receiving pro-
tection from our Parent State. To which we answer, that
it was not in the power of all the Assemblies, from their
first commencement to the present day, to have effected
this union and consequent dependance.

The authority of General Courts do not extend to the
alteration of tiie fundamentals of Governments, much less
to their subversion. This can be done only by the express

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98

voice of the whole people at large. The Govemour,
Council, and House of Representatives, which compose
the Assembly, are creatures of, and derive all their power
from a Constitution agreed upon and previously established,
which has for its primum mobile, groundwork and leading
principle, Liberty, civil and religious. All transactions,
therefore, growing out of such a Constitution, and founded
upon it, as are the acts and doings of an Assembly, must
breathe the spirit of freedom, and be governed by it, as
by a pole-star in the political hemisphere. The election
of Deputies, from time to time, is only a designation of
persons, who are immediately vested with their authority
by the foundation-principles of Government. Their power
is only in a line of conduct chalked out by the Constitu-
tion. In their deviations they act in their private capacity,
and not as the substitutes of the people. Acting within
their delegated sphere, their constituents are, in specula-
tion, virtually present, acting themselves by the votes and
suffrages of their Representatives. This is what gives
universal obligation to their proceedings. But it would
be absurd to suppose a privity between principals and sub-
stitutes, respecting a matter for which the former were not
represented. Hence the irresistible conclusion, that our
Constitution has not been destroyed or altered by Provin-
cial Assemblies.

This is not only a truth in politicks, but also a certainty
in metaphysicks. It is the first principles of Government
that give political existence to substitutes, and support
them in every instance of their publick conduct ; of conse-
quence these principles must be pre-existent in point of
time to every constitutional transaction of theirs. Repre-
sentatives, then, to effect the ruin or subversion of the
Constitution, must remain such by virtue of it, during the
process, and until they complete its destruction ; and so it
must survive its own dissolution, acting after it ceases to
be. And further, if they can act as Representatives the
very instant it is destroyed, which they must, in order to
complete its ruin, they can for the succeeding, and so on.
The consequence of which would be obviously this, that
there could be substitutes of the people to act according to
a Constitution, when there was no such thing existing in
nature. An absurdity of the first magnitude. The same
argument holds with respect to an alteration. This rea-
soning may be unentertaining, and at first view will perhaps
seem a little obscure to a mind not cast in a metaphysical
mould. I aim at perspicuity, at the expense of elegance,
in every instance of ratiocination ; if in this I have failed
of success, it is imputable to a misfortune in the choice of
words, not to a confusion of perceptions. Sure I am, that
I clearly perceive the connection, or disagreement of ideas,
and that you must subscribe to my conclusions, being mas-
ters of the train of reasoning as it passed in my own mind.
Our opposers must either deny our premises, or admit our
inference ; that is, they must deny that Representatives are
constitutional officers, and, as such, bound by it; or ad-
mit that we are still independent of the Parent State, not-
withstanding their supposed recognition of the authority of
Parliament. I have laboured this the more, as it is a
general truth so very material in politicks. It was directly
in the face of this principle that the British Senate be-
came septennial, which probably is the cause, sine qua non,
of our present difficulties. However, the application of
this principle, as now established, is obvious, and its use
important in the present case, as it evinces, to a demon-
stration, that had our Assemblies (which is directly the
reverse of the truth, as we have already proved) not only
acquiesced in, and submitted to Statutes enacted by the
British Legislature, but had also, in express terms and in a
manner the most cogent, passed Acts declaring this Pro-
vince annexed to the Empire of Great Britain, and, as
such, subject to her laws, this would by no means have
united us without the consent of the people, nor have
given our Parent State any new rights over us. Such
Acts must have been void in their own nature.

A fortiori the adopting of the Statute and Common
Law of England in our Courts of Justice, argues no such
connection, or subjection, though it has been urged with a
zeal not according to knowledge by some, and an address
nearly allied to chicanery by others. It is the misfortune,
generally, of arguments adduced in support of errour, like
Prior's darts, to return with effect upon those who advance

Fourth Series. — Vol. u.

them. If the practising upon the Common and Statute
Law of England in our judicial proceedings, implied our
subjection to her authority, (and if it does not prove
this it proves nothing to the purpose,) for the same reason
Great Britain's practising upon the laws of the Nor-
mans, Saxons, &,c, would prove her subject to those North-
ern Powers ; and the adopting the Civil Law of Borne,
without an Act of their own Legislature, would infer the
Briton's subjection to her infallible authority ; which would
carry the Nation right back again into the bosom of that
mother of harlots, from whose arms Henry the Eighth
wrested our parent, that he might enjoy the foster indul-
gence of a kinder companion. From this instance, learn
what motives may reach a Royal breast. As a single
amour induced one King to change the National Religion
from the Boman Catholick to the Protestant, so a passion
not more justifiable, though perhaps less personal, may in-
fluence some future Monarch to barter away the Protestant
for the religion of the Canadians. Ages may first roll
away. Empires roll and roll, and will forever roll. It is
said they steer a Western course. Unborn Americans may
bid them welcome. Present actors speed their progress ;
and future patriots enjoy their blessings. But to return to
the subject.

The genuine history of the matter is simply this : The
Common Law of a Country is of reciprocal and personal
obligation upon each of its inhabitants, independent of the
law-giver. In England it is considered as the birthright
of Englishmen. When individuals remove to Countries
uninhabited, or to Territories already peopled, if they do
not incorporate with the original inhabitants, so as to be
subject to their laws, they are considered as carrying with
them, and being bound by those laws which were obliga-
tory upon them in the abandoned State, so far as is appli-
cable, upon change of circumstances, with other necessary
restrictions. And this, not because they are the Statutes
of the deserted State, but as they are convenient rules of
conduct, which had induced a mutual, personal obligation,
whose force was to be commensurate with the possibility
and fitness of their operation. In this view our ancestors
considered themselves bringing from the land of their na-
tivity the Common Law, together with such Statutes as
were in being at the time of their emigration, disclaiming
the validity of all subsequent Acts. Our Courts of Justice
have always been thoroughly penetrated with a sense of
the propriety of this distinction. If, in some instances, un-
mindful of their judicial department, in favorem, to say
the least of it, they have trespassed in untrodden paths,
and, by a dangerous metamorphose, become Legislators,
it would be as irrational to argue our subjection from this
extra-judicial courtly conduct, as from the aberration of the
fixed stars. But I quit the delicate subject. A sentiment
of the ingenious Blackstone is much to our purpose.
" For," says that learned Judge, " the Common Law of
England, as such, has no allowance or authority in our
American Plantations, they being not part of the Mother
Country."

The affair of receiving protection from Great Britain, is
an argument urged, I presume, for the want of a better. On
this score, it has with truth been said, we owe her nothing.
Our Trade, which she monopolizes, as to its profit, is more
than an equivalent. From this she realizes annual millions ;
by this we cheerfully pay her, like children possessing pro-
perty, a large annuity, as has been clearly shown in the in-
genious observations of the inimitable Novanglus, to which
I beg leave to refer you. But if our arrears were great,
would it give her a right to make us her slaves ? In our
infant state, and during the long and bloody conflicts with
the savage natives, she neither gave, or offered us aid. Of
later years, we have neither wanted, or received protec-
tion, except from the bare existence of her Navy, in com-
mon with Portugal, and other places, in the articles of
Trade and Commerce, and this for her own emolument.
The American Trade carries its own reward with it, espe-
cially to the Parent State, which names, with the strict-
est attention to her own interest, the ports and channels
of its circulation. We are, and from the beginning have
been, of sufficient ability to defend ourselves against all our
own proper enemies. And what is more, we actually have
done it. Mr. Hutchinson, in his History, speaking of the
famous Phillipick war, says : " This is certain, as this Colo-

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100

ny was at first settled, so it was now preserved from ruin,
without any charge to the Mother Country." We have
ever contributed our full proportion for the annoyance of
the common adversary. In the last war, America was one
of the principal seats of action. It was a National, a Bri-
tish, a general war, originating from National motives, and
directed against Britain's inveterate enemy. We were
not involved in it as Americans, as Colonists, but as sub-
jects of the King of England. When war is made upon
a common Sovereign, it must have a local existence. It
is accidental that one particular place, rather than another,
is made the scene of it. Therefore it most certainly ought
to be supported by the joint assistance of the whole. As
subjects of an English King, wc have always been lavish
of men and money for military operations. In the last
war we much exceeded our proportion; at the close of
which a reimbursement was made us by Parliament. For
the truth of this, we may appeal to the recorded acknow-
ledgment of the House of Commons. This undisputed
fact proves, also, to the satisfaction of every reasonable
man, that we had not been deficient on former occasions ;
otherwise she would not have reimbursed to us what had
been long due to herself. Since this period., it must be
confessed, her exertions have been very extraordinary for
the administration of justice and the support of Civil Go-
vernment in America, and in this Province in particular.
Within a year, Ships have been manned, and Armies trans-
ported at a great expense, destined to our Ports and Towns,
to distress, impoverish, abuse, and enslave the best of sub-
jects. Whether we are bound to bear a part of this ex-
pense ; to pay the whole ; or ten thousand times as much,
if the Parliament should call for it, is the question we are
considering.

But we stand upon a foundation still more stable, deeper
rooted, and more highly exalted, whose chief corner-stone
was laid in Heaven. Nature has disjoined us by one of
her insuperable barriers — an Ocean, a thousand leagues
wide. And her Omnipotent Sovereign has rendered the
union, and consequent subjection contended for, morally
impossible, by making us moral agents, subject to the im-
mutable and eternal laws of our being. We can challenge
a freedom ; challenge rights inconsistent with the claims of
Parliament under the broad seal of Heaven — from the
King of Kings, and Lord of all the earth ; rights that
were born with us ; created in us by the decrees of Provi-
dence; that cannot be surrendered even by ourselves ; that
cannot be taken from us but by the same Almighty arm
that bestowed them. So that had it been the sense of our
ancestors, the sense of the King, and the sense of the Na-
tion previous to our emigration, that we were to continue
subject to the Parent State ; had we declared for this sub-
jection in the first instance ; had we received a Charter in
confirmation of this declaration ; had our Assemblies and
Courts of Justice strengthened and corroborated this rela-
tion by unnumbered acts and proceedings ; had the body of
the people, with full satisfaction and indescriptive avidity,
sanctified the same by their express fiat ; and lastly, had we
been defended by the parental arm from our first settlement
to the present day, and still needed the same protection ; I
say, had this been the state of facts, the reverse of all which
we have proved to be true, it would not, it could not oblige
us to submit to the supreme authority of Parliament to the
degree she contends for. For this would be to relinquish
our duty which we owe to that Being whose will alone
gives universal obligation.

Such is the nature of man, such the constitution of
things, that his duty is discoverable hy reason, aided by
revelation ; and is discharged hy conforming to the laws of
eternal justice, and the practice of every social virtue. On
this depends man's truest happiness and best good. This
happiness is said to be the foundation of natural law, or
ethicks, it being inseparably interwoven with our frame,
and forming all the principles and springs of action. This
natural law is coeval with mankind, implanted by the
Deity, and of the highest obligation. It is binding all
over the globe, in all countries, at all times ; the same at
Rome, at Athens, in Britain, and America. No Senate,
no Parliament, no Assembly, can dispense with it, retrench
or alter it. Whoever violates it, says Cicero, renounces
his own nature, divests himself of humanity, and will be
rigorously chastised for his disobedience in the coming

world. No law, no transaction repugnant to this law,
is of any validity. It is the origin of all power, and the
support of all authority.

We being then, in common with all mankind, under an
indispensable obligation to pursue our own happiness in a
course of religious and social duties; it will hence follow,
that we cannot surrender those rights which are necessary
for our happiness, or give up that liberty which is necessary
for the performance of our duty : also, that we cannot
divest ourselves of our natural freedom, so far as to submit
to the absolute will either of an individual or a State, who
might treat us according to their arbitrary whim and fancy.
This is what Great Britain requires of us. This is the
situation into which she has for years been plotting to force
us.* A voluntary submission to her claim in its full lati-
tude will be submitting to a necessity of doing whatever
she commands, of course to the necessity of doing wrong
at her sovereign nod ; for I presume she does not as yet
pretend to infallibility. In short, it would be in effect
abandoning our lives, which we are not masters of; renoun-
cing our duty, which we are not permitted to do ; selling
our Country, our wives, and our children, which are not
ours so to dispose of; betraying our religion, which would
be treason against Christ ; and exchanging happiness for
misery, which would be, as much as in us lay, reversing
God's benevolent plan of moral Government in the world.

To illustrate this by a similar instance. Suppose in
some future day Great Britain, intoxicated by a lust for
innovations, dazzled with the overflowings of power, un-
checked by her own sentiments, or our cries and groans,
which would never reach her, should pass a law tolerating
the Papistical religion in all the English Colonies; sup-
pose she should advance one step further, and establish it
with disqualifications and penalties, (the transition being
easy from one to the other.) To submit to such a law
would be betraying our religion, to oppose treason and
rebellion, the consequence of which would be loss of life,
confiscation of goods, corruption of blood, and a reducing
to beggary wives and children. I do not mention this as
what would probably take place : it is enough that it is
possible. The established religion of the Nation has heen
repeatedly changed. What has been may again be. The
claim of Parliament is to legislate for us in all cases what-
ever. If she establishes this claim, we are slaves; I speak
it with anguish — we are miserable \

To put ourselves then into the absolute power of another,
be it State or individual, is violating a first law of nature,
whose seat has been said " to be the bosom of God ; her
voice the harmony of the world. All things in Heaven
and earth do her homage ; the very least as feeling her
care, and the greatest as not exempted from her power."

The next inquiry is, whether successful opposition be
possible ; if possible, whether prudent and safe. If mea-
suring upon the scale of probability, we are led to conclude
in favour of both, our duty is plain.

* From the County of Hampshire.

FOR THE MASSACHUSETTS GAZETTE.

Boston, March 9, 1775.

My worthy Friends and Fellow- Countrymen :

The more I reflect upon the Petition, so called, of the
American Continental Congress to the King, the more 1
am surprised, astonished, and amazed at the unaccountable
•folly it discovers. One would think that an assembly,
allowed on all hands to be unknown in the Constitution,
would, in an undertaking of this kind, have endeavoured
to obviate any objections to their authority by the modera-
tion, truth, justice, and equity of their complaints; would
have recommended themselves by that decent demeanour
and dutiful behaviour which would have insured an atten-
tion to their requests from the Throne, and interested the
Nation in their favour ; but alas for us, we find them, con-
trary to their own declaration, actuated by " a restless
levity of temper, unjust impulses of ambition, and artful
suggestions of seditious persons," instead of that quiet
submission to lawful authority, that decent moderation,
and those loyal principles which ought to have been the
characteristicks of their councils.

* By Great Britain, I would be understood to moan those Minister*
who have been vibrating the political pendulum.

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102

But I shall waive any further general observations, until
I have particularly examined the remaining grievances
complained of, of which the next in order, is, " The Judges
of Courts of common law have been made entirely depend-
ant on one part of the Legislature for their salaries, as well
as for the duration of their commissions."

By this, so far as it respects this Province, can be in-
tended only the Judges of the Superiour Court, as it is
confined to such as receive salaries ; and the Judges of the
Inferiour Courts have only court fees, upon the several
causes which come before them. And here let us exam-
ine what was formerly our situation in this respect, and
thence determine the expediency, propriety, and necessity
of the alteration. The Judges of the Superiour Court
were before dependant upon the annual grants of the
House of Representatives for their salaries, which have
ever been so small, that they would scarce defray the
necessary expense of attending the Courts, and never suffi-
cient to maintain a family ; so that unless the Judges had
a private estate to subsist their families upon, they must
have been constantly kept in the most pressing circum-
stances, if not greatly involved in debt. Of this repeated
remonstrances were .made and petitions presented for relief,
but without success ; and what was a still greater hardship,
they were in continual danger, that by any unpopular adju-
dications, even these scanty pittances would be curtailed.
Under these circumstances, could the dignity of the King's
Judges be properly supported and preserved ? Could they
act with that firmness, spirit, freedom, and resolution re-
quisite to maintain so important a character? Could they
be considered as not " dependant on one part of the Legis-
lature for their salaries?"

To these questions let every impartial observer return
an answer, and determine for himself, whether they were
rendered more dependant on one part of the Legislature,
when they were made entirely independent of every part.
Add to this, that they and some other Civil Officers who
where formerly paid by the Province, are now paid out of
that fund which you are taught to believe is squandered
away upon a set of worthless placemen and pensioners;
and thereby an internal tax upon your estates for these pur-
poses prevented. As to The " duration of their commis-
sions," they are now removable only by an order from
His Majesty, under his sign manual ;. and it is paying but
an ill compliment to His Most Excellent Majesty, whom
they profess to believe the gracious father of his people,
and ever attentive to the reasonable complaints of his sub-
jects, to suppose that he will make an improper or wanton
use of this power. However, there is no doubt to be en-
tertained, that even in this instance, as soon as we return
to our former state of obedience, such an alteration will be
made upon a dutiful application to the King and Parlia-
ment, as will remove every ground of complaint on this
account.

The next article is, " Counsellors holding tbeir com-
missions during pleasure, exercise Legislative authority."
This is very extraordinary ; we all profess to think the
British Constitution the best that now is or ever has been
established in the world ; we are all striving after the rights,
liberties, and privileges of Englishmen ; we all wish to be
under a Government as nearly similar as the difference of
our circumstances will admit ; and yet this alteration, which
certainly reduces us to a much nearer resemblance of that
great original, which we so much and so justly admire, is
complained of as a grievance. Before the late Act of Par-
liament for regulating the government of the Massachu-
setts-Bay— for I consider this grievance as confined to this
Province, for reasons I shall hereafter explain — the Coun-
cil was annually chosen by the House of Representatives,
and, consequently, by adopting any unpopular measures,
were in danger of losing their election the ensuing year.
This we have seen verified in many instances of the most
worthy and sensible men in the Province being left out of
the Council merely on this account. On the other hand,
if any members, who were zealous in support of the popu-
lar schemes were elected into the Council, they were lia-
ble to be turned or kept out by the negative which the
Governour had upon the election. By the late Act they
are appointed by His Majesty, with the consent of his
Privy Council, and rendered independent of any branch of

the Legislature here, and, therefore, may be presumed to
be impartial and unbiased in their councils. In which of
those modes of appointment the Council best resembles
the House of Lords in England, who hold their seats by
hereditary right, independent of the King or the Commons,
let every one judge for himself, and thence conclude what
a grievance we labour under in this respect.

They go on to complain that " humble and reasonable
Petitions from the Representatives of the people have
been fruitless."' Had they been more explicit in their
declaration of the instances of this kind referred to, we
might better judge of the justice of their complaint. The
Congress knew that in consequence of the Petitions from
the Colonies, the Stamp Act was repealed; they knew
that certain Duties, imposed upon several articles by ano-
ther Act of Parliament, were taken off in consequence of
a similar application, from all the articles except Tea, and
that this was kept on only to save the legal and constitu-
tional right and supreme jurisdiction of the British Parlia-
ment ; they know that whenever this right is acknowledged,
and their honour thereby saved, that even this Duty will
be taken off, and no further occasion of complaint given.
They must have seen, that, had it not been for the high-
handed, unwarrantable measures adopted by those who
call themselves Whigs; had they instead thereof proposed
any plan of accommodation, any means of settling the
dispute amicably and honourably ; all things would have
been adjusted upon an equitable, a constitutional and
permanent foundation. There can be no reasonable doubt
that this has been the disposition of Administration for
some years past; but that our daring outrageous beha-
viour, instead of the " humble and reasonable Petitions
from the Representatives of the people" that we are
told of, has compelled them to use coercive measures, to
bring us to a due sense of that dependance upon the Bri-
tish Nation which our forefathers, and we, until very
lately, have uniformly acknowledged. Can it be supposed
that a powerful, a brave-spirited, and generous Nation
can, on the one hand, admit such extravagant claims as the
Colonies now set up, or, on the other, entertain a design
of oppressing and enslaving them ? Both these things are
equally incompatible with her own interest, and therefore
equally improbable. Yet you are made to believe them
by your leaders, who find it their interest to fish in troubled
waters ; who know that as soon as the ball of contention is
once taken away, they must sink into their native obscuri-
ty, and therefore seek their own advancement in your ruin.
Could I suppose that views so dishonourable and base
influenced the British Councils, as an attempt to injure and
enslave you, no one would more readily join heart and
hand in a forcible opposition to their measures, if all
peaceable and reasonable means failed of success. But I
am firmly persuaded, and upon the best grounds, that your
fears are without foundation ; that your danger exists only
in your own imaginations ; and I pray God that your eyes
may be opened, that you may see things in their true and
natural colours, and escape the impending evils before they
burst upon you.

The next complaint is, that " the agents of the people
have been discountenanced, and Governours have been in-
structed to prevent the payment of their salaries." Let us
examine the grounds of this complaint. Formerly, while
we were convinced that our own interest was inseparably
connected with that of Great Britain ; while we were wil-
ling to submit to the rightful exercise of her authority over
us, and in this submission found that we were happy,
peaceful, and free, an agent was chosen by the three
branches of the Legislature, who took care of the concerns
of the Province at the Court of Great Britain. To this
no objection was ever made, but a salary was granted and
regularly paid, and the interest of the Province carefully
attended to by the agent. Of late years the demagogues
on this side the Atlantick, finding they should not be able
to accomplish their sinister purposes unless they had an
agent of their own appointment, who would join in for-
warding and promoting their own rash measures, deter-
mined to effect this point ; accordingly the House of Re-
presentatives, when they found the Governour would not
approve the choice of an agent they had made, to answer
these ends, instead of electing a suitable person, in whom

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104

all parties might agree, proceeded in their separate capaci-
ty to choose one, who should serve the House alone, and
the Council appointed one for themselves. These agents
were never admitted as such, at any board or office in
England, not being properly appointed, and were there-
fore useless to all good intents and purposes whatever. This
measure was also justly deemed offensive by His Majesty,
as introducing unnecessary innovations, and he accordingly,
to save a useless expense of money to the Province, in-
structed his Govemour to refuse his consent to the pay-
ment of the salaries granted to the agents thus appointed,
which he, without doubt, had not only a legal and consti-
tutional right to do, but therein consulted the true interest
of the Province, and which ought by no means to be con-
sidered as a grievance, as every valuable, just, and lawful
purpose may be answered by the former as well as the
latter mode of election. With how much reason, then,
a complaint is made on this account, it is for you, my
fellow-countrymen, to determine, before you adopt any
forcible measures for redress. Admitting, indeed, that
these things are really illegal and oppressive, every me-
thod ought to be tried for relief before you proceed to such
desperate extremities ; and if you fail of success, you ought
even then to consider whether the miseries and calamities
necessarily attendant upon and consequent to a forcible
opposition to the Parent State, do not far exceed any ad-
vantages which you can expect to gain from the fullest
satisfaction of your wishes in this unnatural contest. But
when you consider that your complaints are for the most
part groundless, that you are seduced, deceived, and mis-
led by your worst enemies, under the mask of patriots, you
cannot, I think, hesitate immediately to think and judge
for yourselves, to exercise that virtue, prudence, and wis-
dom, which you naturally possess ; and now, while it is in
your power, secure your happiness and freedom undimin-
ished, lest you be finally compelled to make the greatest
sacrifices to maintain even a partial enjoyment of them.

Phileirene.

TO THE PRINTERS OF THE MASSACHUSETTS GAZETTE.

Boston, March 9, 1775.

Please to insert the following Recantation and Confes-
sion : —

To err is incident to every human being, but candidly to
confess errours when conscious of them, 1 am upprehenvsie
is the property of but few. No man is blame-worthy
for natural imperfection, but obstinacy and perverseness, as
they are enemies to truth and right, so they are character-
istick of a wrong head and a bad heart. 1 am now about
to produce to the world one instance of a candid acknow-
ledgment of having possessed erroneous principles in poli-
ticks, and consequently must have been guilty of a wroug
conduct in society. In the beginning of our political con-
fusion here in America, 1 was what you may truly call a
Whig, in the modern acceptation of the word. Not that I
ever justified or countenanced mobs and riots ; I was ever
an advocate of harmony, peace, and good order in society.
Rut being so often told, and conceiving it to be the basis
of the English Constitution, that no person, properly quali-
fied, should have his money taken from him but by his own
consent, or that of his Representative, 1 conceived it to be
unconstitutional even for the Parliament of Great Bri-
tain to make any Act which should necessarily and un-
avoidably affect the properties of the Colonists. I con-
ceived, moreover, that though we were subjects of the King
of England, yet we had a Constitution of our own, no
ways controllable by the Lords and Commons of Great
Britain ;■ and that the Parliament had no more right to
legislate for us, than our Legislature here had to legislate
for them. (Such was, 1 now freely confess, my ignorance
then of the English Government and Constitution, and the
relation between the Colonies and the Parent State, which
I now plainly perceive, taken altogether, compose one en-
tire Empire, and the Parliament its supreme legislative
head.)

Upon these principles, when the Stamp Act first came
over, which, if carried into execution, would necessarily
affect our properties, \ loudly exclaimed against it, and
considered it as a most violent infraction of the English

Constitution, and a direct taxing of the Colonies. That
Act, so inexpedient and unreasonable in its nature and
operation, was never carried into execution, but speedily
repealed, though succeeded by another, which we appre-
hended almost as bad, viz: An Act for imposing duty on
Glass, Painters' Colours, Paper, Tea, &,c, articles which,
though not absolutely necessary for life, yet so very useful,
that we could not well do without them ; and besides, the
duty was solely for the purpose of raising a Revenue in
America, and was introductory to every other species of
taxation. The design was very evident in the Stamp Act,
therefore the general cry was, among us Whigs, (or patri-
ots, as we called ourselves,) let us by all means oppose it
with violence ; if we do not, we shall become the most
abject slaves to the Parliament of Great Britain. Our
opposition was the means of the Stamp Act being repeal-
ed, and will produce the same effect as to this, if we show
the same temper and resolution. The truth was, the duty
was soon taken off from all the articles except Tea,
(though I now believe more owing to the influence of our
friends at home, than our clamour here.) We then, how-
ever, exulted in our patriotism, and considered ourselves
as the instruments of saving our Country from impending
ruin. We were so elated with success, that we doubted
not any Act of Parliament relative to the Colonies would
be repealed, if we opposed it with firmness and resolution.
Our pride was so elevated, that we could not have patience
with those who would not heartily join us in our plan. We
considered them as cowardly wretches, or mean, selfish
governmental expectants. Our candour and charity did
not extend so far as to suppose it possible for them to
speak their real sentiments when they differed from us.
My conscience now, upon recollection, abundantly tells
me how deficient I was at that time, in those amiable
qualities.

We were not, however, entirely acquiescent, though we
had struck such a noble stroke, and got the duty taken off
of every article but one, it was with great reluctance we
could suffer it to remain on Tea ; but as the Merchants in
this Province (who, though their profession is Commerce,
are generally the springs which keep in motion the wheels
of Government) appeared to be tolerably easy, (some im-
porting Tea directly from England, paying the duty,
others illicitly running it from the Dutch, taking their
chance of seizure,) the spirit of uneasiness seemed in some
measure to subside, and both Whigs and Tories purchased
and drank Tea freely in this Province, without particular
inquiry whether it paid the duty or not, from the year
1767, to the time the East India Company were permitted
by Parliament to send their Tea immediately to America.
This, like a spark falling upon gunpowder, immediately
set us into a flame again. We considered the Parliament
as granting a monopoly to one trading Company, to the
detriment of all America. We then thought it our duty
once more to rouse ourselves in defence of our injured
Country. Though I was very warm in the cause, yet I
never advised to the destruction of the Tea, but, in an evil
hour, it was all destroyed. The particular circumstances
are too well known to need repeating ; but it is a thousand
pities they could not be buried in eternal oblivion. The
action struck me so horridly, as being repugnant to every
principle of justice, and a downright piece of piracy, that
1 could not help exclaiming against it, as being pregnant
with the most ruinous consequences to us. I then began
to be afraid of the chastisement of an incensed and power-
ful Nation. I thought it was high time to stop in our ca-
reer, and seriously consider what we were about, lest we
should plunge ourselves into ruin before we were aware of
it. But my brother Whigs, having more courage and reso-
lution than I had, perceiving me to begin to waver, exert-
ed themselves to keep up my spirits, and continually ex-
horted me to stand firm and unshaken. Nothing is want-
ing, said they, but resolution and unity ; desperate diseases
require desperate remedies; we have, as it were, passed
the Bubicon; the other Colonies will stand by us; our
Committees of Correspondence have wisely taken care to
secure their principal men ; if we do not appear unani-
mous, we are lost; we must not look back, but forward ;
we are afraid of nothing but the miscreant Tories, who en-
deavour to prevent our union; we must keep them down

105

CORRESPONDENCE, PROCEEDINGS, he, MARCH, 1775.

106

by continued threats, and now and then a little chastise-
ment; the Piinters we have got under our thumbs; they
dare not print any thing but what is on the side of liberty ;
if any one of them does, we are determined he shall lose
our custom ; and never fear, if we only stand firm in our
opposition, we gain our point.

Still further to secure me and keep me steadfast, (for
they were sensible I had some influence,) they chose me
one in a Committee of Correspondence, &.c, and then, I
acknowledge, I was for a considerable time wound up to a
higher pitch of enthusiasm than ever. We met often ; in-
deed we made it almost our whole business ; but our con-
versation was altogether upon politicks, and always upon
the side of liberty, rights, and privileges. Every argu-
ment was defensive of liberty, and instead of an opponent,
each was an applauder of the other, and a reviler of all
Tories; and each, perhaps to inspirit the other, expressed
more than was his just and real sentiments. The same
tiling took place with respect to other Committees, with
whom we always kept up a continued intercourse by let-
ters. How often have we expressed ourselves, with a
studied zeal and determined resolution, purposely to pre-
vent any flagging of spirit in other Committees, and how
often have we received as spirited answers in reply ! Thus
we went on animating and supporting each other, till the
Suffolk Resolves appeared ; then, 1 acknowledge, I was
almost as much struck as when the Tea was destroyed, but
throughout our circle shouts of applause echoed round the
room. I could not help at that time seriously observing,
that I was fearful we went too fast ; the Continental Con-
gress, which was then sitting, might not justify such very
spirited Resolves, and then our cause would be injured,
as we must certainly acquiesce in their determinations.
Therefore I apprehended it would be most prudent lor us to
take our hints from them, rather than lead. The reply
was, that our Delegates were men of sense, and some of
them good speakers ; one of them particularly could carry
almost any point he was determined upon, therefore they
must have great influence in the Congress ; and as there
was a continued correspondence kept up between the
Committee of Boston and the Delegates, there was no
doubt but they were apprized of them previously to their
publication, and depended upon their being adopted by the
Continental Congress. Accordingly they were adopted
and approved of, though they do not appear in the pamph-
let containing their doings. But still, notwithstanding
the authority of the Continental Congress, and the high
spirits and assurance of our and other Committees, I
could not help, upon serious reflection, when alone, having
many compunctions of heart, as it evidently appeared to
me that all could not be right. The course seemed to me
to lead directly to rebellion, which my soul abhorred, and
was never in my intention.

From that lime I was determined seriously and impar-
tially to examine for myself, and attend to all that was said
on both sides. Our custom ever had been, not to attend,
and scarcely to read any thing that was not wrote on the
right side of the question, as we called it. The first thing
1 read with attention was a letter from a Virginian to the
Continental Congress, while they were sitting at Philadel-
phia. That letter I found contained many serious and
just observations, sufficient to awaken in any unprejudiced
mind alarming apprehensions of the consequences of our
hasty conduct. Afterwards I met with the " Friendly Ad-
dress," and many other pamphlets wrote on the side of
Government, together with some excellent pieces publish-
ed in Mills and Hicks's, and Draper's Papers. These,
taken altogether, seem to me fairly to lay open and ex-
pose the whole scene of our political errours and iniquities.
And what confirms me still more in the justness of their
observations, and the conclusiveness of their reasonings is,
that they seem unanswerable by the whole Whig party.
The weak and futile replies that have been made to some
of them do not deserve the name of answers. What 1 have
seen contains little more than scurrility and illiberal abuse ;
instead of sober reason and candid reply, they spend their
shafts in invective and indecent railing. Indeed, from the
beginning, notwithstanding my prejudices in favour of their
cause, I have been often disgusted at their manner of treat-
ing men and measures. It appeared to me it was by no

means calculated to persuade or convince serious and ra-
tional men. I am now fully convinced, however high I
once was, that the cause of the Whigs is not a just one,
otherwise they surely must have defended it with a better
appearance of reason and plausibility. Another reason
which tended not a little to cure me of my whiggish prin-
ciples, was the crabbed fruits they produced. In contend-
ing for liberty, they seem inclinable to engross it all them-
selves ; the prevailing temper and disposition among them
seems by no means to be pacifick ; they are arbitrary and
even tyrannical in the whole tenour of their conduct; they
allow not to others who differ from them the same liberty
of thinking and acting that they claim themselves, but
shamefully abuse them, and treat them with spite, malice,
and revenge. The instances of that kind are too numerous
and notorious to require a particular detail.

How shockingly extravagant are the late Resolves of
the County of Worcester? What a shameful attempt to
discourage the liberty of the Press, that glorious palladium
of English liberty. Let an honest Whig seriously consider
whether such a conduct can flow from good principles, any
more than a bad tree can bring forth good fruit. I now
seriously advise all my former brethren of the Whig party
to follow me in my recantation, rather than to throw out
squibs at me in Edes and Gill's, or Thomas's Papers. All
that I can now do, (and that I shall do,) in the way of
atonement for my former whiggish conduct, is to endea-
vour to proselyte as many as I can ; and I find myself hap-
py in being as successful at least in leading people from
errour, as 1 was once in persuading them into it.

A Converted Whig.

EXTRACT OF A LETTER TO MR. RIVINGTON, IN NEW-YORK,
DATED BOSTON, MARCH 9, 1775.

Last Monday the annual Oration was pronounced in the
old South Meeting ; there was a very numerous audience.
Some gentlemen of the Army placed themselves on the
top of the pulpit stairs. In the pulpit were Warren, the
orator of the day, Hancock, Adams, Church, &.c. &c.
I had been informed that the Military were determined not
to suffer the least expression that had a tendency to reflect
on the King or Royal family to pass with impunity; of
course, my attention was directed to their conduct on the
critical occasion. The Republican was, I fancy, appre-
hensive of this, for through the whole oration there was
an affectation of loyalty and veneration for the King and
the Brunswick line ; it was, however, replete with invec-
tive, inflammatory expressions, denials of Parliamentary
claim, abuse of Ministry, &ic, &c. The officers frequent-
ly interrupted Warren by laughing loudly at the most
ludicrous parts, and coughing and hemming at the most
seditious, to the great discontent of the devoted citizens.
The oration, however, was finished ; and it was aftewards
moved by Adams that an orator should be named for the
ensuing fifth of March, to commemorate " the bloody and
horrid massacre, perpetrated by a party of soldiers under
the command of Captain T. Preston." At this the officers
could no longer contain themselves, but exclaimed, fie,
shame ! and, fie, shame! was echoed by all the Navy and
Military in the place ; this caused a violent confusion, and
in an instant the windows were thrown open, and the
affrighted Yankees jumped out by fifties, so that in a few
minutes we should have had an empty house ; in the mean-
time, a very genteel, sensible officer, dressed in gold-lace
regimentals, with blue lapels, moved with indignation at
the insult offered the Army, since Captain Preston had
been fairly tried and most honourably acquitted by a Bos-
ton Jury, advanced to Hancock and Adams, and spoke his
sentiments to them in plain English ; the latter told the
officer he knew him, and would settle the matter with the
General ; the man of honour replied, " you and I must set-
tle it first." At this the demagogue turned pale and waived
flie discourse. It is said this gallant gentleman's life is
threatened, but 1 fancy there is little danger. The Town
was perfectly quiet all night ; no exhibition or ringing of
bells; they knew better.

You will soon have in New- York the Asia, a fine Sixty-
four, commanded by an excellent seaman, son of your old
friend Sir George Vandeput.

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CORRESPONDENCE, PROCEEDINGS, Lc, MARCH, 1775.

108

CONNECTICUT ASSEMBLY.

At a General Assembly of the Governour and Company
of the English Colony of Connecticut, in New-England,
in America, holden at Ncu-Haven, by adjournment and
special order of the Governour of said Colony, on Thurs-
day, the second day of March, Annoque Domini, 1775 :

It being represented to this Assembly that Abraham
Blackslee, of New-Haven, Captain of a Military Company
in the Second Regiment in this Colony, is disaffected to
this Government, and the privileges thereof, as established
by Charter, and has frequently spoken contemptuously of
the measure taken by this Assembly for maintaining the
same, and threatened to act in his office in opposition to
the lawful authority of the Colony contrary to the duty of
his office :

Resolved, By this Assembly, that James A. Hilhouse
and Samuel Bishop, Esquires, be, and they are hereby
appointed a Committee to inquire into said matters, and
make report of what they find, with their opinion thereon,
to this Assembly at die next session.

It having been represented to this Assembly that Isaac
Quintard, of Stamford, in the County of Fairfield, Cap-
tain of the Second Military Company in the Town of
Stamford, in the Ninth Regiment in this Colony, and Filer
Dibble, of said Stamford, Captain of the First Military
Company in the Town of Stamford, in said Regiment, at
said Stamford, in January last, in contempt of the author-
ity in this Colony, did attempt and endeavour to prevent
the introduction of certain barrels of Gunpowder into this
Colony for the Government use, agreeable to the order
and directions of legal authority, which conduct is incon-
sistent with the duty of their said office and of dangerous
tendency :

Whereupon it is Resolved, By this Assembly, that Gold
SUlick Silliman, and Jonathan Sturgess, Esquires, be, and
they are hereby appointed Commissioners, and are fully
authorized and empowered to notify said Quintard and
Dibble to appear before them, at such time and place as
shall be by them appointed, and to examine the witnesses
relative to said conduct, and examine into the truth of said
representation, and to report what they shall find to the
General Assembly, at their session in May next.

It being represented to this House, that the Towns of
Ridgfield and Newtoxan have come into and published
certain Resolutions injurious to the rights of this Colony,
in direct opposition to the repeated Resolves of this House,
and of dangerous tendency :

Resolved, That Col. Joseph Piatt Cook and Col. John
Read, be a Committee to inquire into the truth of said
representation, and how far any person or persons holding
commissions under this Government have been any way
active or concerned in promoting the measures taken by
said Towns, and make report of what they shall find to the
General Assembly, to be held at Hartford, in May next.

Wednesday, March 8, 1775.

In the House of Representatives of the Colony of Con-
necticut, assembled at New-Haven : —

Whereas, our brethren of the Town of Boston have
long suffered, and are yet suffering under the hand of
oppression, grievous and unparalleled hardships and distress-
es, in consequence of their resolution to support the great
principles of Constitutional Liberty ; and having endured,
and yet enduring those sufferings in the common cause of
America, with most exemplary fortitude and magnanimity ;
the principles of humanity and justice to ourselves and
them, require that they should not be left to sink under
the weight of burdens which, without assistance, may be-
come absolutely insupportable.

And although many donations have been made them by
this and the other Colonies ; yet, upon authentick intelli-
gence, it appears they are inadequate to the real distresses
in which thousands of their innocent and virtuous inhabi--
tantsare involved by means as aforesaid.

This House, taking the matters aforesaid into their serious
consideration, do Resolve, That it be, and it is hereby
earnestly recommended to the several Towns in this Colo-
ny, to continue cheerfully and liberally to contribute to the
relief of their suffering brethren in said Town, according
to the several abilities which Divine Providence has given

them ; esteeming it an incumbent duty, and an acceptable
service in the sight of God and their Country.
By order of the House,

William Williams, Speaker.

IN THE HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES,

New-Haven, March, 1775.

Colony of Connecticut, ss.

Resolved, That the thanks of this House be given to
the worthy and patriotick House of Assembly for the
Island of Jamaica, for their kind and seasonable mediation
in favour of the Colonies on this Continent, by their late
humble Petition and Remonstrance to His Majesty. And
that the Speaker of this House be, and he is hereby
directed to write to the said Honourable Assembly, and
enclose a copy of this Resolution ; also of the Resolution
of this House, at their session in May, 1773, appointing a
Committee of Correspondence, and invite them to come
into that, or a similar method of mutually communicating
such intelligence, as may be of publick importance, and
more immediately affecting the inhabitants of the British
Colonies and Islands in America.

Test: Richard Law, Clerk.

Colony of Connecticut, Lebanon, March 14, 1775.

Sir : In pursuance of the direction of the Honourable
House of Representatives for this Colony, I have the plea-
sure of transmitting the enclosed Resolutions, and at the
same time to return you their unfeigned thanks for your
late kind and seasonable, yet spirited and pertinent media-
tion, in their behalf, by your Remonstrance and Petition to
His Most Gracious Majesty.

The clear knowledge you have of the inherent and una-
lienated rights of the Colonists, and the readiness you
have shewn to assert them, with a temper and firmness
worthy of such a cause, of Englishmen and Americans, at
once reflects the highest honour on your worthy and patrio-
tick Assembly, and merits the most grateful acknowledg-
ments of this whole Continent.

The unnatural contest between the Parliament of Great
Britain and these Colonies is at length, by the unwearied
efforts of our enemies for a course of years, brought (to all
human appearance) near to a most alarming crisis; in
which, threatened as we are by the dreadful alternative of
surrendering all for which our fathers suffered and bled, all
that is deserving of men, Englishmen and Americans, in
life ; or suffer all the horrours of a military contention with
the Parent State ; the striking union of these Colonies,
a consciousness of the justice of our cause, and the recti-
tude of our views, with the approbation of our fellow-men,
seem, under Heaven, our greatest consolation and support.

The representations of so respectable a body as the As-
sembly of your large and important Island will, we flatter
ourselves, meet with the most favourable attention of His
Majesty and his Ministers, and have a happy tendency
towards procuring for us and you, (and indeed the whole
Nation, ultimately interested in this great common cause,)
the redress of those grievances under which we labour,
and the establishment of the liberties and privileges of the
whole Empire, on the most sure and permanent basis.

We shall ever be happy in keeping up an intercourse
with your Island, and shall, from time to time, with plea-
sure embrace every opportunity to give you the earliest
intelligence, of whatever we shall judge of publick concern,
or more immediately affecting the Colonies in general, or
your Island in particular; and shall gratefully receive the
like favours from you.

I am, by order, and in behalf of the House of Repre-
sentatives for this Colony, Sir, your most obedient and very
humble servant, Wm. Williams, Speaker.

Hon. Speaker of the House of Assembly, Jamaica.

LETTER FROM THE HONOURABLE J. TRUMBULL, GOVER-
NOUR OF CONNECTICUT, TO THE EARL OF DARTMOUTH,
ONE OF HIS MAJESTY'S PRINCIPAL SECRETARIES OF
STATE.

New. Haven, March, 1775.

My Lord: I duly received your Lordship's Letter of
the 10th of December last, enclosing His Most Gracious
Majesty's Speech to his Parliament, and the Addresses in

109

CORRESPONDENCE, PROCEEDINGS, be, MARCH, 1775.

iiO

answer thereto, which I have taken the earliest opportunity
to lay before the General Assembly of the Colony ; and
am now to return you their thanks for this communica-
tion.

It is, my Lord, with the deepest concern and anxiety,
that we contemplate the unhappy dissensions which have
taken place between the Colonies and Great Britain, whicli
must be attended with the most fatal consequences to both,
unless speedily terminated. We consider the interests of
the two Countries as inseparable, and are shocked at the
idea of any disunion between them. We wish for nothing
so much as a speedy and happy settlement upon constitu-
tional grounds, and cannot apprehend why it might not be
effected, if proper steps were taken. It is certainly an ob-
ject of that importance as to merit the attention of every
wise and good man, and the accomplishment of it would
add lustre to the first character upon earth.

The origin and progress of these unhappy disputes, we
need not point out to you ; they are perfectly known to
your Lordship. From apprehensions on one side, and jea-
lousies, fears, and distresses on the other, fomented and in-
creased by the representations of artful and designing men,
unfriendly to the liberties of America, they have risen to
that alarming height at which we now see them, threaten-
ing the most essential prejudice, if not entire ruin, to the
whole Empire. On the one hand, we do assure your
Lordship that we do not wish to weaken or impair the au-
thority of the British Parliament in any matters essential
to the welfare and happiness of the whole Empire. On
the other, it will be admitted that it is our duty, and that
we should be even highly culpable, if we should not claim
and maintain the constitutional rights and liberties derived
to us as men and Englishmen ; as the descendants of Bri-
tons, and members of an Empire whose fundamental prin-
ciple is the liberty and security of the subject. British
supremacy and American liberty are not incompatible with
each other. They have been seen to exist and flourish to-
gether for more than a century. What now renders them
inconsistent ? Or, if any thing be further necessary to as--
certain the one or limit the other, why may it not be ami-
cably adjusted, every occasion and ground of future con-
troversy be removed, and all that has unfortunately passed,
be buried in perpetual oblivion ?

The good people of this Colony, my Lord, are unfeign-
edly loyal, and firmly attached to His Majesty's person,
family, and Government. They are willing and ready,
freely as they have formerly most cheerfully done upon
every requisition made to them, to contribute to the ut-
most of their abilities to the support of His Majesty's Gov-
ernment, and to devote their lives and fortunes to his ser-
vice ; and, in the last war, did actually expend in His Ma-
jesty's service more than Four Hundred Thousand Pounds
Sterling beyond what they received any compensation for.
But the unlimited powers lately claimed by the British
Parliament drove them to the borders of despair. These
powers, carried into execution, will deprive them of all
property, and are incompatible with every idea of civil lib-
erty. They must hold all that they possess at the will of
others, and will have no property which they can, volunta-
rily and as freemen, lay at the foot of the Throne as a mark
of their affection and devotion to His Majesty's service.

Why, my Lord, should our fellow-subjects in Great
Britain alone enjoy the high honour and satisfaction of
presenting their free gifts to their Sovereign ? Or, if this
be a distinction in whicli they will permit none to partici-
pate with them ; yet, in point of honour, it should he
founded on the gift of their own property, and not of that
of their fellow-subjects in the more distant parts of the
Empire.

It is with particular concern and anxiety that we see the
unhappy situation of our fellow-subjects in the Town of
Boston, in the Province of the Massachusetts-Bay, where
we behold many thousands of His Majesty's virtuous and
loyal subjects reduced to the utmost distress by the opera-
tion of the Port Act, and the whole Province thrown into
a state of anarchy and confusion, by the Act for changing
the Constitution of the Province, and depriving them of
some of their Charter-rights. We are at a loss to conceive
how the destruction of the East-India Company's Tea
could be a just or reasonable ground for punishing so se-
verely thousands of innocent people who had no hand in

that transaction, and that even without giving them any
opportunity to be heard in their own defence.

[And we submit whether the conditions of their being
restored to their former privileges, are not becoming im-
practicable under their present circumstances, since the
Town is not, by law, authorized to tax the inhabitants for
such a purpose ; and the Province is not permitted the pri-
vilege of the Assembly ; nor, they conceive, could they
constitutionally hold one, until their Charter- rights are re-
stored. Indeed, how can they constitutionally give His
Majesty any security for their future good behaviour, but
by their Representatives in General Assembly. Were the
Acts for shutting up their Port and altering the Govern-
ment of the Province, repealed ; the armed force with-
drawn from Boston, and the people put upon a footing to
act freely and constitutionally, we cannot doubt but that as
they have, upon all former occasions, shown themselves to
be a generous, brave, and loyal people, they would comply
with any reasonable requisition that should be made by his
Majesty.]

Give us leave to recommend to your Lordship's most
serious and candid attention the unhappy case of that dis-
tressed people, and in effect of all the Colonies, whose
fate seems to be involved in theirs, and who are therefore
most anxiously distressed for them. Permit us to hope,
that, by your Lordship's kind and benevolent interposition,
some wise and happy plan will be devised which may re-
lieve us from our present anxieties, and restore that harmo-
ny between Great Britain and the Colonies, which we
all most ardently wish for, and which alone can "render us
truly happy.

I am, my Lord, in behalf of the Governour and Com-
pany of Connecticut, my Lord, your Lordship's most obe-
dient and most humble servant,

General Assembly, New-Haven, March, 1775.
In the Upper House the foregoing draught for a Letter
to the Right Honourable the Earl of Dartmouth, one of
His Majesty's Principal Secretaries of State, being read,
is approved, and his Honour the Governour is desired
to sign a transcript thereof, and transmit the same to his
Lordship as soon as opportunity will permit.

Test : George Wyllys, Secretary.

In the Lower House, Mr. Strong, Mr. Deane, Colo-
nel Talcott, Mr. Hosmer, Mr. Wales, and Mr. Sturgess,
are appointed a Committee to confer with such gentle-
men as the Honourable Upper House shall appoint to con-
fer on the subject-matter of the foregoing Letter.

Test: Richard Law, Clerk.

In the Upper House, Willia?n Samuel Johnson and
Oliver Wolcott, Esquires, are appointed to confer with
the Committee of the Lower House on the subject-matter
of the foregoing Letters.

Test: George Wyllys, Secretary."

[At the Conference of the Committees of the two Houses, it was
agreed to amend the draught by striking out the paragraph between
brackets, in whicli form it was adopted by the Lower House.]

General Assembly, New-Haven, March, 1775.
In the Lower House, the foregoing draught for a Letter
to the Earl of Dartmouth, one of His Majesty's Principal
Secretaries of State, is read and approved, and his Hon-
our the Governour is desired to sign a transcript thereof,
and transmit the same to his Lordship as soon as opportu-
nity will permit. Test: Richard Law, Clerk.

Concurred in in the Upper House.

Test: George Wyllys, Secretary.

EXTRACT OF A LETTER FROM CONNECTICUT TO MR. RIV-
INGTON, NEW-YORK, DATED MARCH 13, 1775.

Our Assembly met on the 2d of March. The two first
days were chiefly employed in examination of the conduct
of Captain Glover and the Representatives of Ridgfield,
which Town had very freely declared against adopting the
Congress's measures. A Committee was appointed to su-
perintend this business, and make a report at the next May
session. The debates of a week's duration upon the mat-
ters cost the Colony One Hundred and Seventy-Five
Pounds. In the next place, many long and learned ar-

HI

CORRESPONDENCE, PROCEEDINGS, &c, MARCH, 1775.

112

guments were produced by the old leaven, the Repub-
licans, urging the necessity of an Army to be immediately
raised. The matter was recommended to a Committee,
consisting of the most inflammatory and the truest malig-
nant men, who openly declare for independence. After
two days they produced a Report, as follows :

" That a Major General and two Brigadier Generals be
appointed ; that ten thousand bushels of Wheat, two thou-
sand barrels of Pork, three thousand stands of Arms with
Bayonets, be provided ; and the Assembly emit Bills to
the amount of Thirty Thousand Pounds, lawful money."

This was craftily concerted ; for had the Bill succeeded,
of course a subsequent one must have passed to raise a
number of Troops to eat the provisions. But Heaven be
praised, by this time the eyes of the most respectable Mem-
bers were opened ; they saw that all the old firebrands
were the promoters of these destructive measures ; and to
the eternal honour of many Members who spoke and acted
on behalf of the Constitution, a majority of the House
was roused, and they then proceeded to vote by paragraph
upon the Bill. They allowed the creation of General Of-
ficers, but all the rest were thrown out of the House ; and,
instead of the destructive measure concerted by the Crom-
weUites, a vote was passed by a great majority to petition
his Majesty for a redress of such American grievances as
should be enumerated by a Committee then appointed by
the House to compose and report it for their approbation.

This Assembly was a special one, called for the express
purpose of raising, &c, six thousand men. And notwith-
standing the Secretary and Squire Wyllys, who went to Cam-
bridge to consult the Provincial Congress, assured the House
that the Congress then met at Cambridge, on mature deli-
beration, wanted not assistance from this Colony, they being
sufficiently able to fight all the Troops General Gage had

then at Boston, our warm sons of insisted on raising

an Army in this Province, and, at any rate, drive the
King's General out of this religious land.

A Letter, carrying with it, in effect, a Petition, was sent
down to the Lower House from the Upper House, address-
ed to Lord Dartmouth. The Wasp immediately seized,
and clumsily attacked those parts of it which were calcu-
lated to conciliate and restore harmony between Great
Britain and America ; but he was overruled, and returned
home grievously disappointed.

LETTER FROM A GENTLEMAN IN CONNECTICUT TO MR.
HOLT, NEW-YORK, DATED MARCH 29, 1775.

Mr. James Rivington has often been animadverted on
in a publick manner, and sundry Resolves have been pass-
ed in the different Colonies, respecting his conduct as a
Printer; not only as being partial, but as publishing false-
hoods tending to disunite them in their great struggle to
support constitutional liberty, destroy their mutual confi-
dence, and render abortive that system of conduct recom-
mended by the Congress as the most certain and advisable
expedient for obtaining a redress of our grievances. Mr.
Rivington, or his partisans, have represented this as an
attempt to destroy the liberty of the press. But shall a
press disgorge calumny and falsehood with impunity ? Shall
the most innocent actions of a community be traversed,
and the most reputable characters, even Legislative bodies,
be traduced with passive tameness ? This would be a tacit
acknowledgment of the charge. Is it not notorious, that
he, while America is anxiously struggling to preserve her
constitutional liberties, like an invidious spy, watches every
motion towards the grand point, and strives to frustrate
every design, by disseminating distrust and falsehood among
the people, in order to intimidate or divide them, thereby
rendering his press an engine of tyranny, as well as a sink
of the most impure productions. An instance of this we
have, in his " uninfluenced" paper of last week, termed
" Extract of a Letter from Connecticut."

It is evident, from the whole strain of this epistle, that
the writer attempts to set the General Assembly of this
Colony in a disadvantageous point of light, villify and dis-
grace some of its most worthy members, and create a dis-
trust of them among the Colonies, as though they had
changed measures, which is wide of the truth, as I shall
show anon. He says —

" Our Assembly met on the second of March, and the

two first days were spent in examining the conduct of Cap-
tain Glover and the Ridgfield Representatives, which had
declared against the measures of the Congress." Here he
stumbles at the very threshold ; I am very certain nothing
of that matter was debated the first day. His account of
the Committee is very confused ; if it is intelligible, he
means the Committee were appointed to superintend the
examination of the Representatives ; but while the House
spent two days in examining them, how could any Com-
mittee superintend ? Did they appoint a Committee to
superintend themselves ? He says a Committee were
appointed to superintend the business, and make report in
May. The meaning (if any) is obscure, at best. If he
intends such a Committee were appointed to superintend
the examination of the first two days, or while the exami-
nation lasted, it is not true.

He next observes : " The debates of a week's dura-
tion upon the matter cost the Colony One Hundred and
Seventy-five Pounds." Here, again, he needs a comment.
If he is intelligible, he must mean a week was spent in
debating such matters as he had before mentioned, i. e.
examining the Representatives ; but this is not true. At
first he speaks of but two days himself, and I before ob-
served on the first day none of his matters were agitated ;
now he seems to assign a whole week to that business, for
he can't be supposed so silly as to accuse the Assembly of
sitting a week on matters at large. His design was doubt-
less to insinuate that the House spent a week about a
trifling examination, which cost the Colony One Hundred
and Seventy-Five Pounds. This might raise a clamour,
and this, I charitably believe, was his design.

The next clause is remarkable ; he says, " In the next,
many long and learned arguments were produced by the
old leaven, the Republicans, urging the necessity of an
Army to be immediately raised ; the matter was recom-
mended to a Committee, consisting of the most inflamma-
tory, who openly declare for independence." Such a
high charge against the Committee ought to be supported
by the strongest evidence ; but the whole weight rests on
the mere ipse dixit of an anonymous author. Should this
dirty performance gain any credit, what idea must the com-
munity entertain of the Committee, and Assembly that
appointed them ? He says, " They were Republicans,
who openly declare for independence, i. e. such as disavow
Monarchy, and admit no King to preside in the State."
Is this true ? I ask this vile calumniator whether he ever
heard any such doctrine advanced in that Assembly, or bv
the Members of it ? If so, let him support the charge, and
give us his name ; otherwise he will be accounted a ma-
licious defamer. Is a Printer to be tolerated who charges
the Representatives of a Colony with treasonable princi-
ples from an anonymous scribbler ? He ought to publish
the name of his correspondent, or take the blame of this
scurrilous accusation to himself. But I must inform him
that the Committee consisted of gentlemen of the first
character, for ability as well as loyalty, and firm attach-
ment to the British Constitution.

The Report of the Committee, and vote for a Petition to
His Majesty, which next occur, 1 shall remark on hereafter.
He then proceeds : " This Assembly was a special one,
called for the express purpose of raising six thousand
men." How he obtained this intelligence I cannot con-
jecture. Did the Governour mention it in his speech, or
was it ever declared in the Upper or Lower House of As-
sembly ? I am confident he never heard it from the first
or the last, and cannot suppose him a Member of the
second ; whence, then, did he derive his intelligence of the
express purpose ? I presume it was a creature of his own
morbid imagination. He next acquaints us, " Two gen-
tlemen went to Cambridge to consult the Provincial
Congress." This, I conceive, was mentioned with a
malevolent design towards them, in order to asperse their
characters. That they were there is conceded ; but whether
with a design to consult the Congress or not, is, I believe,
mere conjecture. If that was really their errand, where is
the crime? Is not America engaged in supporting the
Town of Boston 1 Is it then a crime to consult them in
affairs of common concern ?

He proceeds : " Our warm sons of insisted on

raising an Army in this Province, and, at any rate, drive
the King's General out of this religious land." This is

113

CORRESPONDENCE, PROCEEDINGS, &tc, MARCH, 1775.

114

mere rant. No such thing was proposed in the Assembly
(I am very certain) through the whole session.

lie subjoins: "A Letter, carrying with it in effect a Pe-
lition, was sent down to the Lower House from the Upper
House, addressed to Lord Dartmouth." A Letter was sent
from the Upper Hoard to the Lower House, for their con-
currence and approbation ; it was an answer to one re-
ceived from Lord Dartmouth, and addressed to that
Nobleman ; in this they declare the loyalty of themselves
and the other Colonies to his present Majesty, and their
concern at the claims of the British Parliament, which
have occasioned so much anxiety among the Colonists ;
they decently asserted our Constitutional rights, and con-
doled the unhappy sufferers of Boston as a virtuous and
loyal people ; in fine, they requested his Lordship's kind
interposition with His Majesty for our relief.

He concludes : " The Wasp immediately seized and
clumsily attacked those parts of it which were calculated
to restore harmony between Great Britain and America ;
but he was overruled, and returned home grievously dis-
appointed." Whoever was designed by the Wasp, the
epithet, clumsy, is not so applicable to that insect as to his
own dull performance. But here again he errs from the
truth. When the Letter was read in the Lower House,
sundry clauses were objected to. Though (in my opinion)
the fair import of the Letter was unexceptionable, yet, as
not only one, but several Members were of opinion that
some expressions were too vague, and might be wrested to
a noxious sense, they were cautious of making any seem-
ing concessions of their indubitable rights. After some
debate, a Committee was appointed from both Houses to
make some amendments, which they did, by substituting
more cautious and determinate expressions, and vary-
ing rather the diction than sense ; when it passed the
House (as I thought) without a dissent. So that instead
of being overruled, as he falsely suggests, there was an
amendment to the general acceptance ; and no one (I be-
lieve) returned home grievously disappointed, except the
author or his voucher.

As to what he says in this polite way, " that the Wasp
clumsily attacked those parts of the Letter that were cal-
culated to restore harmony between Great Britain and
America :" no parts were attacked except such as I just
noticed. Doubtless he was offended that any corrections
were made, and intended they should be understood in the
noxious sense to which the House feared they might be
wrested, else why is he angry with others for attacking
those parts which, it was apprehended, might be taken in
such a sense ? By such as might restore harmony, it is
evident he designed such parts as might gratify the Minis-
try, at the expense of our liberties.

1 promised to consider the Report of the Committee,
and the vole for a Petition to His Majesty. The House
considered at large the alarming situation of America ; they
professed their allegiance to his present Majesty, and firm
resolution to support our Constitutional liberties. They
desire to live peaceable and loyal subjects to His Britannick
Majesty. But should violence essay to enslave them, they
believe they are warranted by the example of Great Bri-
tain and the Constitution itself, to defend themselves, and
repel any lawless invasion. Though they were well united
in the grand principle of Constitutional liberty, yet it is no
wonder, in this sad dilemma, if their councils were serious.
After considerable debates on affairs the most interesting
that ever were agitated in a Senate, the Committee with-
drew, and framed a Bill, (as their author informs.) that the
minds of the Assembly might be known. Every Article
of this Bill was calmly debated; and approving that for
appointing General Officers, (such as have been in some
of the neighbouring Provinces for a long time,) the rest
of the Bill was prudently dismissed. In these debates, a
concern for the publick weal so far predominated over pri-
vate resentment, that the whole was conducted with the
greatest friendship and harmony, so that when a great part
of the Bill was rejected, yet it seemed to be with a gene-
ral approbation of the Committee themselves, as every
one seemed inclined to pursue the most prudent advice,
whether suggested by himself or another,

I now proceed to consider the Petition to His Majesty :
here our author fails of telling the whole truth. Mr. Biv-
ington, the week before he published the extract now un-

Fourth Series. — Vol.. n. 8

der consideration, mentions this Petition as cause of great
joy.* One would think from this, that the Colony had
been in open rebellion, and was now returning to their
duty ; else why this transport ? Did he never hear that
this Colony petitioned their Sovereign before ? 1 can tell
him they have repeatedly. Did not the Congress peti-
tion ? fie knows they did. Whence, then, this exulta-
tion ? Doubtless he had an eye to those parts of the
Letter which were calculated to restore harmony between
Great Britain and America, which his correspondent in-
formed him were clumsily attacked by the Wasp; but he
returned home grievously disappointed. That this is mere
fiction, I have shown before. But being deceived by his
correspondent, he felt a glow of uncommon joy, which he
could not conceal until he might publish the Letter. He
thought, perhaps, Connecticut had made a compliment of
her liberties to the Ministry ; and this he was impatient to
publish.

This Colony, ever attached to the present reigning
family, did vote to prefer a Petition to His Majesty; but
on a little reflection, it was thought inexpedient at this
juncture, as the Congress had petitioned in behalf of
America in general, and they had not then heard what
reception their Petition met with ; and by some it was
thought, in every such step we ought to advise with the
other Colonies. In short, I have the satisfaction to see,
that the very same reasons that the worthy Representatives
of Pennsylvania offered their Governour as an excuse for
not petitioning at present, prevailed on this Assembly to
defer it to a future session.

A Member of the Lower House of Assembly.

EXTRACT OF A LETTER FROM LONDON TO A GENTLEMAN
IN VIRGINIA, DATED MARCH 10, 1775.

Our political madness is still in its zenith, and we are
consequently taking the most effectual measures that the
wit or folly of man can devise to render America totally
independent of this Country. You must, by this time,
have heard of the Bill prohibiting the four New-England
Governments from Fishing, &c. Another Bill is also in
its motion, to confine Nevj-Jersey, Pennsylvania, Mary-
land, Virginia, and South- Carolina, to trade no where
but with Great Britain, Ireland, and the British West-
Indies. By the long silence of the London Merchants,
they were considered as men not very serious in the busi-
ness of America, (which was really the case, a very few
excepted,) and have been treated with the utmost con-
tempt ; and the Cabinet, owing to this dilatory conduct,
have had time to get every one of their plans confirmed by
Parliament. Those of Glasgow sent up a very spirited
Petition, but at the same time let Lord North know, by
their Member, Lord F. Campbell, that they did not mean
any opposition by it, but only to get credit in America.
The Ministers seem now convinced if America continues
united, and perseveres in her Non-Importation and Non-
Exportation scheme, it will, without one blow, distress the
Nation so much that they must yield to the most humili-
ating terms America can demand. Therefore, bribes, pen-
sions, places, contracts, and all other arts, are attempted to
divide the Colonies, particularly New-York; and by the
most irritating measures they are provoking to blows, in
hopes to rouse the resentment of the Nation against Ame-
rica, which is at present strong against themselves, and less
than twelve months brings on their long-deserved fate.
The way to defeat such diabolical schemes is to bear every
thing that human nature can bear, and only, as common
prudence directs, be prepared to resent any force or injury
that may be offered. 1 wish this universally known. Your
Governour, besides the parts of his letters published, and
other parts transcribed to you, has written for five thousand
Troops, or else he cannot stir in Virginia ; but they can-

» We hear from Connecticut, that last Friday, the Assembly of that
Colony, after sitting ten days, adjourned to meet at Hartford, on the
13th of April. The Printer has received many particulars of their pro.
ceedings, but they must bo deferred, as they came too late for this
week's paper; we have only room to inform the publick, that a Letter
nt from the Upper Board for the approbation of the Lower
. addressed to Lord Dartmouth. It contains every mark of loy.
alty to the Kinf,', and carries with it, in effect, a Petition. The House
of Assembly, by a great majority, voted a petition to His Majesty,
and a Committee was appointed to draw it up. The ovent has afforded
unspeakable satisfaction to the friends of our happy Constitution.

115

CORRESPONDENCE, PROCEEDINGS, &c, MARCH, 1775.

116

not even spare the ten thousand which Gage wrote for.
The Address to the Soldiers had very great eiiect in Eag-
laiul and Ireland *

ADDRESS OK THE INHABITANTS OF ANSON COUNTY, NORTH-
CAROLINA, TO THE GOVERNOUR.

To His Excellency Josiah Martin, Esq., fyc:

.Most Excellent Governour: Permit us, in behalf
of ourselves, and many others of His Majesty's most duti-
ful and loyal subjects within the County of Anson, to take
the earliest opportunity of addressing your Excellency, and
expressing our abomination of the many outrageous at-
tempts now forming on this side the Atlantick, against the
peace and tranquillity of His Majesty's Dominions in North
America, and to witness to your Excellency, by this our
Protest, a disapprobation and abhorrence of the many law-
less combinations and unwarrantable practices actually car-
rying on by a gross tribe of infatuated anti-monarchists in
the several Colonies in these Dominions ; the baneful con-
sequence of whose audacious contrivance can, in fine, only
tend to extirpate the fundamental principles of all Govern-
ment, and illegally to shake oft" their obedience to, and de-
pendance upon, the imperial Crown and Parliament of
Great Britain; the infection of whose pernicious example
being already extended to this particular County, of which
we now bear the fullest testimony.

It is with the deepest concern (though with infinite in-
dignation) that we see in all publick places and papers dis-
agreeable votes, speeches, and resolutions, said to be enter-
ed into by our sister Colonies, in the highest contempt and
derogation of the superintending power of the legislative
authority of Great Britain. And we further, with sor-
row, behold their wanton endeavours to vilify and arraign
the honour and integrity of His Majesty's most honourable
Ministry and Council, tending to sow the seeds of discord
and sedition, in open violation of their duty and allegiance.

We are truly invigorated with the warmest zeal and at-
tachment in favour of the British Parliament, Constitution,
and Laws, which our forefathers gloriously struggled to es-
tablish, and which are now become the noblest birthright
and inheritance of all Britannia's sons. We should be
criminally wanting in respect and gratitude to the manes of
those ancestors, and ill deserve the protection of that su-
periour Parliamentary power, could we tamely suffer its
authority to be so basely controverted and derided, without
offering our protest to your Excellency against such igno-
minious disobedience and reproach ; for we consider that,
under Divine Providence, it is solely upon the wisdom and
virtue of that superiour legislative might that the safety of
our lives and fortunes, and the honour and welfare of this
Country, do most principally depend.

Give us leave, therefore, Sir, to express our utter detes-
tation and abhorrence of the late unjustifiable violation of
publick commercial credit in the Massachusetts Govern-
ment. We protest against it with the utmost disdain, as
the wicked experiment of a most profligate and abandoned
Republican faction, whereby the general repose and tran-
quillity of His Majesty's good subjects on this Continent are
very much endangered and impaired. We think it indis-

• Williamsburgh, Va., June 17, 1775. — It was with great surprise,
and, I must confess, with a goad deal of concern, that I observed in Mr.
Pitrdie's Gazette, of the 9th instant, an extract of a letter from London,
dated the lOthofJtfarcA last, which mentions, " that the Merchants
of Glasgow, upon the present unhappy differences subsisting betwixt
Great Britain and her American Cojoni ,'S, sent up a very spirited Peti,
tion to Parliament, but at the same time tut Lord North know, by their
Mi-mb r, Lord Frederick Campbell, that they did not mean any oppo-
sition by it, but only to got credit in America." The writer of this let.
t jr must have either been greatly misinformed, or actuated by interest
or resentment ; for from the most certaiu intelligence, I can assure the
good people of this Colony that the latter part of the paragraph men.
tioned is equally false as it is injurious to the Merchants of the City
of Glasgow, and the genllem >n with whom they are connected in this
Colony. No pirt of the British Nation have exerted themselves with
greator warmth, and. I may truly add, with greater sincerity, than the
Merchants of Glasgow, for a restoration of that happy union so ardently
wished for by every true friend to America or Great Britain; and I am
fully convinced that every Merchant in this Colony views with the
greatest abhorrence the very idea of such villanous. disingenuous, and
unmanly conduct, as the writer of the above letter charges tliem with.

The greatest unanimity, gontlemon, is essentially necessary at this
period, in this as well as every other Colony in America. Surely, then,
our publick Printers should be extremely careful to promote, by their
publications, an object of such importance, and avoid, with the greatest
caution and resolution, every thing that may have a contrary elf jet.

Mercator.

pensably necessary, and our duty at this alarming crisis, to
offer this memorial and protest to your Excellency, against
all such enthusiastick transgressions, (more especially the
late ones committed by the common cause Deputies within
this Province,) to the intent that it may be delivered down
to posterity, that our hands were washed pure and clear of
any cruel consequence, lest the woful calamities of a dis-
tracted Country should give birth to sedition and insurrec-
tion, from the licentiousness of a concert prone to rebellion.

And we cannot omit expressing further to your Excel-
lency, that we consider all such associations at this period
of a very dangerous fatality against your Excellency's good
Government of this Province, being calculated to distress
the internal welfare of this Country, to mislead the unwary
ignorant from the paths of their duty, and to entail de-
struction upon us, and wretchedness upon our posterity.

We do, most excellent Governour, with all obedience
and humility, profess and acknowledge, in our consciences,
that a law of the high Court of Parliament at Great Bri-
tain is an exercise of the highest authority that His Majes-
ty's subjects can acknowledge upon earth, arid that we do
believe it hath legal power to bind every subject in that
land, and the dominions thereunto belonging. And we
do, moreover, with all duty and gratitude, acknowledge
and reverence in the utmost latitude an Act of Parliament
made in the sixth year of the reign of his present most
sacred Majesty, entitled " An Act for the better securing the
dependance of His Majesty's Dominions in America on the
Crown and Parliament of Great Britain."

And we do further heg leave to express our detestation
of the many scandalous and ignorant deliberations on the
power of that Parliament in the control of His Majesty's
Provincial Charters. For could the doctrine of such un-
ruly propositions possibly exist, or should their insolent at-
tempt unhappily prevail, it must at once extinguish those
Laws and that Constitution which are the glory of the Bri-
tish Empire, and the envy of all Nations around it.

We are truly sensible that those invaluable blessings
which we have hitherto enjoyed under His Majesty's aus-
picious Government, can only be secured to us by the sta-
bility of his Throne, supported and defended by the Bri-
tish Parliament, the only grand bulwark and guardian of
our civil and religious liberties.

Duty and affection oblige us further to express our grate-
ful acknowledgments for the inestimable blessings flowing
from such a Constitution. And we do assure your Excel-
lency that we are determined, by the assistance of Al-
mighty God, in our respective stations, steadfastly to con-
tinue His Majesty's loyal subjects, and to contribute all in
our power for the preservation of the publick peace; so
that, by our unanimous example, we hope to discourage
the desperate endeavours of a deluded multitude, and to
see a misled people turn again from their atrocious offences
to a proper exercise of their obedience and duty.

And we do furthermore assure your Excellency, that we
shall endeavour to cultivate such sentiments in all those
under our care, and to warm their breasts with a true zeal
for His Majesty, and affection for his illustrious family.
And may the Almighty God be pleased to direct his
Councils, his Parliament, and all those in authority under
him, that their endeavours may be for the advancement of
piety, and the safety, honour, and welfare of our Sovereign
and his Kingdoms, that the malice of his enemies may be
assuaged, and their evil designs confounded and defeated ;
so that all the world may be convinced that his sacred
person, his Royal family, his Parliament, and our Country,
are the special objects of Divine dispensation and Provi-
dence.

Signed by two hundred and tiwnty-scven of the Inhabi-
tants of the County of Anson.

ADDRESS OF THE INHABITANTS OF ROWAN AND SURRY
COUNTIES, NORTH-CAROLINA, TO THE GOVERNOUR.

To His Excellency Josiah Martin, fyc:

Permit us, on the behalf of ourselves and many others of
His Majesty's most dutiful subjects within the Counties of
Rotvan and Surry, to protest against any person or per-
sons, who may violate any of His Majesty's laws, or the
peace of this Government. We are truly invigorated with
the warmest zeal and attachment to the British Constitu-

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CORRESPONDENCE, PROCEEDINGS, &c, MARCH, 1775.

118

tion and Laws, upon which our lives and fortunes, and the
welfare of the Province now depend ; and utterly protest
against meetings of people against the peace thereof, or
any thing which may give birth to sedition and insurrection.
We cannot but express to your Excellency that we consi-
der all such associations, at this crisis, of a very dangerous
fatality against your Excellency's good Government of this
Province, and to distress the internal welfare of this Coun-
try, and to mislead the unwary from the paths of their duty.
And we do assure your Excellency that we are determin-
ed, by the assistance of God, in our respective stations, to
continue His Majesty's loyal subjects, and to contribute all
in our power for the preservation of the publick peace, and
that we shall endeavour to cultivate such sentiments in all
those under our care, and warm their breast with a true
zeal for His Majesty, and affection for his illustrious family.

May the Almighty God direct his Council, his Parlia-
ment, and all those under him, that their endeavours may
be for the advancement of piety, and the safety, honour,
and welfare of our Sovereign and his Kingdoms, that the
malice of his enemies may be assuaged, their evil designs
confounded and defeated, so that the whole world may see
his sacred person, our laws, and Country, are the special
objects of Divine dispensation and Providence.

Signed by one hundred and ninety-Jive of the Inhabi-
tants of the Comities of Rowan and Surry.

the observing of the Counsels and Resolves of our worthy
Delegates, recommended in Continental Congress for the
good people of this Province to observe, as being the most
likely method to obtain a redress of our publick grievances ;
and we do hereby publickly declare our dislike and disap-
probation of said pretended Petition, and of all such instru-
ments as may have a like tendency to make divisions
and parties among the good people of this Province. In
witness whereof, we have hereunto signed our names.

N. B. — The reader will please to note that the above
is a true copy of what is now carrying about in the Town-
ship of Brook-Haven, and to which a considerable number
have signed, (of those that subscribed the pretended Pe-
tition above alluded to,) whose example, it is not doubted,
will be followed by many more.

ADDRESS OF THE INHABITANTS OF GUILFORD COUNTY,
NORTH-CAROLINA, TO THE GOVERNOUR.

To His Excellency Josiah Martin, tyc. :

We, His Majesty's most loyal subjects of the County of
Guilford, and Province of North- Carolina, beg leave to
lay before your Excellency, that we hold in open detesta-
tion all illegal and unwarrantable proceedings against His
Majesty's crown and dignity. That whereas there is a
general dispute between His Majesty and the Colonies of
America, past our knowledge to determine what the event
may be, we therefore hold a firm attachment to His Majes-
ty King George the Third, his crown and dignity ; and we
being a poor and unhappy people, lying under the reflec-
tion of. the late and unhappy insurrection, we therefore
have taken this opportunity to show forth our loyalty to
His Majesty and his lawful commands ; and for further
confirmation hereto subscribe our names, as maintaining our
rights under a legal authority.

Signed by one hundred and sixteen of the Inhabitants
of the County of Guilford.

DECLARATION OF INHABITANTS OF BROOK-HAVEN, SUF-
FOLK COUNTY, NEW-YORK.

Brook-Haven, March 10, 1775.

Whereas, Major Benjamin Floyd was mentioned in Mr.
Hugh Gaine's Paper of the 6th of February, as having
got a number of subscribers to a certain Petition, said to be
signed to the General Assembly of this Province :* Where-
fore we desire to inform the publick, that whereas, he, the
said Benjamin Floyd and Joseph Denton did carry about
this Town a paper, calling of it a Petition to the General
Assembly of this Province, and did earnestly urge and
persuade all that they could to sign the same, calling of
it a good thing, and telling people that it was to support
the laws of the Province, which was likely soon to fail ;
and that it was an instrument well drawn, and the best
calculated for that purpose : And as we, the subscribers,
did, by their persuasions, without having a proper know-
ledge of the design of said instrument, sign our names
to the same ; but as we since have learned that the said
instrument, called a Petition, was designed and is calcu-
lated, as we think, to make divisions and disagreement
between the Legislative authority, viz : the Governour,
the Council, and General Assembly, and the common-
alty of the good people of this Provice, with respect to

* We hoar from Brook.lluven, Suffolk County, that Major Benjamin
Floyd found, on a strict inquiry, one hundred good men in the first
Compnny of that Township, to support the King and his Government ;
but no officer would join him above the rank of Sergeant. All the
abov« penom signed a Petition to the General Assembly, expressing
that they will entirely abide by the obi Constitution, viz : The Gover-
nour, Council, and General Assembly of this Province, without any
regard to the proceedings and determinations of the Continental Con-
gress.

EXTRACT OF A LETTER FROM LONDON, TO A GENTLEMAN
IN PHILADELPHIA, DATED MARCH 11, 1775.

You have herewith enclosed some of the late English
papers, and a peculiar fiery piece called the Crisis, wrote
professedly in favour of Liberty and America, and which,
from its freedom, has suffered martyrdom at Westminster
and the Exchange, by order of a prostituted Parliament.

The plan of this accursed Ministry is, to divide and
govern, in hopes of completing their principle of slavery,
by the base advantages and preferences now held out to
New- York, North- Carolina, and Georgia. Surely AmerU
cans must see through the flimsy texture, and nobly spurn
at the offer ! I cannot suffer myself to believe that these
Provinces will desert the cause of liberty, by accepting the
ignoble Commerce offered to them by this abhorred Par-
liament. But should it be the unhappy case, which God
forbid, why then, let all the rest of America unite in a
firm determination never to trade or have any connection
with them again. With what contempt ought the base
majority of the New-York Assembly to be held ! Have
they not been honoured with that disapprobation, to wit :
Tarring and Feathering ? It ought to be administered as
a determent to others. For if that defection had not hap-
pened, we had the utmost reason to expect other measures
would have been adopted than these villanous Acts passed
and passing. But for the satisfaction of my countrymen,
let me assure them, that if they will but steadily abide by
the Resolutions of the Congress, this hateful Ministry must
retire ; and then, under the auspices of the wide-expanded
soul of Chatham, his noble conciliatory plan of a union
must be adopted, and that, in spite of open enemies, or
the more concealed and dangerous ones lurking under the
specious title of moderation, we shall be free for ever.

It gives every friend to American liberty the greatest
satisfaction to find Doctor Franklin will return by the
April Packet ; for his long acquaintance with the machina-
tions of this infamous Administration will enable him to
spirit up the lukewarm, and confirm the Patriot, as well in
the Congress as throughout America.

Once more, let the Americans be united, and they shall
obtain the glorious prize; but if they divide, they are irre-
trievably ruined.

EXTRACT OF A LETTER RECEIVED IN PHILADELPHIA,
DATED LONDON, MARCH 11, 1775.

My zeal for the liberties of America will not let me
rest ; I think those valuable blessings are more in danger
than ever, and I therefore warn my friends of it, and your-
self in particular.

I am well assured that the Americans are not to be inti-
midated by force, and that they are prepared to oppose
force to force, if violent measures should be openly and
steadily pursued ; but I am fearful that they may be lulled
asleep by the insidious arts of Administration. The des-
picable junto that govern all our publick proceedings have
at length discovered their errour, and that the hostile mea-
sures they have begun with, have united the Colonies in
one common bond, which they were taught to believe
would produce a contrary effect ; and they are now shifting
their battery — conciliatory steps are continually talked off,
and an abatement of their demands is echoed by every
tool in office.

Beware of this snake in the grass, and give no credit to

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CORRESPONDENCE, PROCEEDINGS, &c, MARCH, 1775.

120

any paciliek proposals, till you have a certain and total
disavowal of all their unconstitutional claims.

You will have heard, before this reaches you, of that
infamous and cruel bill, which we call the Fishery Bill ;
which, I take upon me to say, was, in its original dress, as
black a bill as ever was brought into a British Parliament.
It is true they have softened it from reading to reading, by
various salvos and exceptions, but all tending to divide.
The Quakers of Nantucket have been excepted, on Pe-
tition from the Society here ; and there are to be other
exceptions in favour of those who are willing to subscribe
to certain secret compacts, which are yet kept in the breast
of the Ministry, but which, I take it, are somewhat of the
same nature of those made formerly between the Devil
and his adherents, by which, for some trifling gratification
(and in which they were commonly deceived) they sold
themselves to everlasting slavery.

Our Parliament have also another bill before them, call-
ed a Conciliatory Bill ; the purport of which amounts to
this : that if any of the Colonies on the arrival and publi-
cation of said Bill shall agree to tax themselves to such
an amount as the Parliament shall approve, (which money
is also to be under the direction of Parliament) that such
Colonies shall be taken into favour, and the Penal Acts
suspended ; but which are still to remain as a rod hanging
over them, to be used as occasion shall require.

And a third bill is also in agitation, which is to include
all the disobedient Colonies in the same predicament as the
Massachusetts, viz : to prohibit their exports to any other
pans than Great Britain^ Ireland, and the West-Indies.

1 should inform you that New- York is not in this list. The
late Resolves of their Assembly have been very grateful
incense to the nostrils of our Ministry ; and though, in my
opinion, a matter of little consequence, yet they have
afforded great triumph and exultation, and have given an
opening to favour that Colony at the expense of the rest.

But I trust that the majority, even of that City, are
with us, and that they will maintain the Non-Importation
Agreement, in its utmost rigour. And now I am on this
topick, let me advise you of one loophole, where the
enemy may attempt to come in. The King's Ships that
are now preparing, both the Men-of-War and the Trans-
ports, will be in some degree freighted with European
Goods — great quantities are getting ready ; this you may
depend on. I speak on the best authority, though per-
haps not on my own certain knowledge ; for I would have
it understood that I would not execute an order for the best
friend I have for those purposes.

Our Merchants and Traders in this City have had
several publick meetings, and have made such application
to the governing powers as they thought would produce
the most salutary effects ; or rather, (if I may express
myself without reserve,) such application as they could all
concur in ; for it must be confessed,, and indeed it cannot
be concealed^ that a very considerable part, though not the
majority of the Merchants and Traders, are averse to the
Americans.

In short, your cause is not a favourite cause in this
Kingdom, as I believe I have already wrote you. Having
submitted, in some degree, to slavery ourselves, we do not
so fully feel the distress it may occasion in others ; and
partly through interest, partly through prejudice, and
partly through ignorance, I fear the majority are against
you. But I wish you not to be disheartened, since, to say
the worst, you have a most respectable minority ; a mi-
nority that will never give up your cause, if you do not
desert it yourselves; nay, some of us, as I know, will
maintain your rights, though you should be so base to
barter them for a mess of pottage.

I can assure you that^ exclusive of those publick and
Constitutional Societies already established, some others
are forming, for the avowed purpose of supporting British
and American liberty ; and I make no doubt that some
good will happen from these associations ; the English are
slow in resentment, as in deliberation : but they are deter-
mined in the prosecution of either when they once en-
gage.

We have already commenced a publick subscription for
the relief of the sufferers in Boston; some handsome
sums have already been subscribed ; but, as yet, it wants
the usual enthusiasm that accompanies things of this sort ;

however, I don't despair that it will ultimately succeed,
and it will be a glorious declaration of our principles, by
the most undoubted touchstone.

ORANGE COUNTY (VIRGINIA) COMMITTEE.

March 11, 1775.

An accusation being lodged with the Committee of
Orange County against Francis Moore, Jun., of his hav-
ing violated the Eighth Article of the Continental Asso-
ciation, by gaming : the said Moore was cited, and appeared
before the Committee convened February 23, 1775. The
testimony of a witness, as well as the confession of the
accused, convinced the Committee that the charge was
well founded ; but Mr. Moore gave such evidence of his
penitence, and intention to observe the Association strictly
for the future, and alleging, moreover, that he was not
thoroughly aware of the extent of the prohibition con-
tained in that article, that the Committee think it proper
to readmit him into the number of friends to the publick
cause, till a second transgression.

It need scarcely be added, that this mitigation of the
punishment prescribed in the Eleventh Article, proceeds
from a desire to distinguish penitent and submissive, from
refractory and obstinate offenders.

Francis Taylor, Clerk.

EXTRACT OF A LETTER FROM BOSTON TO A GENTLEMAN IN
NEW-YORK, DATED MARCH 12, 1775.

Last Monday Doctor Warren delivered an Oration
against the effects of Standing Armies in free Govern-
ments, &lc. There was a prodigious concourse of people
present, and amongst them, in the most conspicuous part
of the house, about forty Officers. The oration was spi-
rited, yet free from particular reflections on mercenary
Troops.

The red-coated gentry behaved with tolerable decency
till after the Doctor had finished ; when, taking exception
at the words of the vote that was put for the appointment
of an orator for the next year, one of them cried out fie !
fie! — This exclamation was seconded by two or three
others; and the people thinking that it was the cry of
fire, great confusion was occasioned ; many of the women
jumped out of the windows, and much mischief would
have ensued, had not the gentlemen in the desk very
strenuously exerted themselves to restore quiet, which,
after some time, they effected.

The pronouncing this oration must be construed as a
publick affront to Mr. Gage in both his stations — as Gen-
eral of the Army and Governour of the Province. In the
first, as it was a reflection, in general, on Standing Armies
in time of peace ; and in the other, as it was in a Town
Meeting, held directly contrary to an Act of Parliament;
to enforce which, His Excellency came to Boston. Nor
is it a small proof of the spirit of the inhabitants, who, in
defiance of a Fleet and Army, with the muzzles of their
guns at their doors, dared to tell them that they were an
illegal body of men, and the tools of tyrants.

We had a most extraordinary exhibition here last Thurs-
day. As the populace of Boston had thought fit to
repeal the tarring and feathering act, the King's Troops
have thought fit to revive the said statute ; and in conse-
quence of such a determination, gave us a specimen of a
Royal mob. The Soldiers have been encouraged by their
Officers to take every method of tricking the unwary.
An honest countryman, on Wednesday, was inquiring for a
firelock ; a Soldier heard him, and told him, he had one
which he would sell. Away goes the ignoramus, and
after paying the Soldier very honestly for the gun (which
was only an old one, without a lock) was walking off,
when half a dozen seized him, and hurried the poor fellow
away under guard, for breach of the Act against trading
with the Soldiers ; and after keeping him in duress all
night, the next morning, instead of carrying him before a
Magistrate, who, on complaint, would have fined him, (as
has been the case in several instances,) the Officers con-
demned the man, without a hearing, to be tarred and fea-
thered ; which was accordingly executed. After stripping
him naked and covering him with tar and feathers, they
mounted him upon a one-horse truck, and surrounding the

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122

truck with a guard of twenty Soldiers with fixed bayonets,
accompanied with all the drums and fifes of the Regiment,
(Forty-Seventh) and a number of Officers, Negroes, Sailors,
&tc, exhibited him as a spectacle through the principal
streets of the Town. They fixed a label on the man's
hack, on which was wrote, "American Liberty, or a spe-
cimen of Democracy ;" and, to add to the insult, they
played Yankee doodle.

0 Britain ! How art thou fallen ! Is it not enough
that British Troops, who were once the terrour of France
and Spain, should be made the instruments of butchering
thy children; but must they descend also to exploits too
infamously dirty for any but the meanest of the mobility to
practise ? What a wretched figure will the Boston expe-
dition hereafter make in the historick page !

EXTRACT OF A LETTER FROM LONDON TO A GENTLEMAN
IN VIRGINIA, DATED MARCH 13, 1775.

I did myself the pleasure of writing you the first of this
month, and then sent you a copy of such part of the Earl
of Dunmore's Letter to Lord Dartmouth as had been laid
before both Houses of Parliament ; since which time 1 have
had an opportunity of knowing the secret part of his Lord-
ship's Letter which was not laid before Parliament ; and as
it particularly marks his character as Governour of Virgi-
nia, in reference to the good people of that brave Colony,
and will, I trust, be so instructive to the Members of their
House of Burgesses as never hereafter to confide in him,
but to consider and treat him as their confirmed enemy,
I beg that you will use the best and speediest means to
communicate it to them, as I pledge myself to you for the
truth of the information.

After Lord Dunmore had given his uncandid represen-
tation of Virginia, as transmitted to you on the first of this
month, he proceeded warmly to recommend to Ixird Dart-
mouth that some Men-of-War should be stationed in Chesa-
peake Bay, to prevent the Virginians from carrying on
any external trade except with this Country ; and that all
communication might be cut off between them and the
Northern Colonies, he advised that some Sloops or Ten-
ders should be placed in Chester and Sassafras Rivers;
and as he observed that the Council as well as the House
of Burgesses, and almost every person of fortune and con-
sideration in the Colony, except the Attorney General,
were as deeply engaged as the inferiour planters in factious
associations and plans of resistance, great outrages and dis-
orders would soon take place among them, from a want of
a regular distribution of law ; and therefore he strongly
urged the King's Ministers, as a sure method to increase
these disorders, and which, in the end, he asserted, could
not fail to produce Petitions from the rich praying the
protection of this Legislature, that His Majesty would,
without delay, order himself and all the other Executive
Officers of Virginia, to withdraw from thence.

This, I faithfully assure you, is the secret counsel of Lord
Dunmore. Can you, therefore, my dear sir, wonder that
Administration persevere in their ruinous and despotick
system of American politicks? Be you firm, however, in
your wise Resolutions of Non-Importation, Non-Exporta-
tion, and Non-Consumption, and to these add an immedi-
ate accomplishment in the art of war, and in the end you
will establish the rights of America upon an immovable
basis. But you must first make the luxurious proud peo-
ple of this Kingdom feel the want of your Commerce and
affection, before they will do you any degree of justice.

EXTRACT OF A LETTER FROM LONDON TO A GENTLEMAN
IN MARVLAND, DATED MARCH 13, 1775.

I wrote you by Captain Falconer, since which some
very material changes have happened in the state of po-
litical affairs. The Minister, finding a general discontent
take place on account of the measures pursuing with regard
to America, and in order to save the Stocks, which began
to give way, gave out that he intended to extend the olive
branch to the people on your side the water. The very
sound exhilarated the minds of the people here ; the Funds
immediately recovered, and the people began to conclude
that every thing would soon be settled in an amicable
way. And what was this olive branch ? Nothing but the

motion, which will have reached you before this comes to
hand. A motion which, at first, nobody could compre-
hend ; a motion couched in such cabalistical terms, on pur-
pose to confound the understandings of mankind, but which,
when understood, was found to contain nothing of the least
healing tendency, only calculated to separate and divide
the Colonies from each other. Divide et impera is an old
adage, and now they are in hopes of practising it with suc-
cess amongst you. The Ministry, indeed, begin to plume
themselves already on their success in this way. The
proceedings at New-York, and the last advices from Gene-
ral Gage, flatter them exceedingly that the seeds of dis-
sension are growing very fast even in the New-England
Provinces. How far this is true, a little time will disco-
ver; in the meantime military operations are carrying on
with the same zeal as before. The Troops are to be sent,
and a Bill is ordered into Parliament for restraining not
only the New-England Fishery, but another to stop the
Trade of all the Colonies except New- York, North- Caro-
lina, and Georgia, which they hope will declare on the
side of Government, in consideration of which particular
indulgences will be granted them. Whatever these in-
dulgences may be, I have no doubt they will only be of a
temporary nature till Government has got a firm footing.

I have told you before that your salvation is in your own
hands, if you will be but firm and unanimous. You have
but to adhere closely to your Non-Importation and Non-
Exportation Agreement. If there was danger before of
your disunion, I cannot help hoping that this last restrain-
ing Bill will come in aid, in order to link you closer to
each other. It comes now to be tried what materials you
are made of. If you have not virtue enough to withstand
this attack, you will become a scorn and a laughing stock
to all the world, a reproach to human nature ; and depend
upon it the burdens that will be laid upon you will be in
proportion to the temper you have shown to resist them.
1 shall not attempt to point out any particular modes of
proceeding; these, I trust, will be concerted with wisdom,
firmness, and resolution. Be assured the good of the com-
munity at large is not the object certain persons in power
have in view ; they mean to make you beasts of burden,
or, as the Congress have very properly expressed it,
" hewers of wood and drawers of water ;" but 1 hope you
are all of their mind in this respect. You perhaps ima-
gine that Government is nothing more than a power dele-
gated in a few for the good of the whole. If you think
that this is the opinion of the people in power, you are
very much mistaken ; they think that the community at
large are to labour, toil, and sweat, in order to maintain a
few great people wallowing in luxury, idleness, extrava-
gance, and all manner of debauchery. If the present mea-
sures succeed, depend upon it you will have tax-gatherers
in various shapes swarming in upon you in abundance.
If you patiently submit, there will be none to pity you.

EXTRACT OF A LETTER FROM LONDON TO A GENTLEMAN
IN PHILADELPHIA, DATED MARCH 13, 1775.

The people in general are much alarmed at the mea-
sures now pursuing ; and 1 have no doubt that when they
come to feel the effects of your Non-Import and Non-Ex-
port Resolutions, their resentment will break forth with
great violence. The City of London and all the great
trading and manufacturing Cities and Towns, are exceed-
ingly averse to the present proceedings, and apprehensive
of the worst consequences.

The Ministry are sensible of and declare the dangers
and difficulties of their undertaking. But they are encour-
aged to the attempt by a firm persuasion of success in cor-
rupting New- York and intimidating New-England. Did
they believe the Americans would be united and firm, 1 am
sure they would not venture upon coercive measures.
Even as it is, should the seduction of the one and the in-
timidation of the other not produce a general relaxation of
your Resolutions, they will be disposed to accommodate
rather than risk a serious and determined opposition. For
you must remember that the resolute face they put on is
merely on supposition that if pushed you will submit.
But should the whole Continent appear firm and deter-
mined, should their seducing and intimidating schemes
prove abortive, depend upon it that they must submit to

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CORRESPONDENCE, PROCEEDINGS, &c, MARCH, 1775.

124

what you ask. Their plans are calculated for immediate
operation, and one year's perseverance on your part will
totally and entirely defeat them. 1 have the most abso-
lute trust that the virtue of our countrymen will support a
resolute resistance, and I therefore look forward to your
success with entire confidence. The Ministerial language
is, the unconditional submission of the Colonies. But if
you are firm, faithful, and united, the unconditional sub-
mission will be theirs.

By whatever means you can keep the Assembly of
New-York from deserting, even by out-bidding the Min-
istry, it will be worth the purchase; for nothing will more
effectually damp their hopes than the declaration of the
Assembly of that Province in favour of the Congress.
They have therefore despatched emissaries to exert every
effort of corruption there by bribery and places for indi-
viduals, endowments for the College, and the establishment
of Royal Docks, Arsenals, Sic, in the City.

A reinforcement of two thousand men at the utmost is
to be sent to General Gage, and four Regiments to New-
York. They will probably arrive the latter end of May.

The Bill for prohibiting the Commerce and Fishery of
the NeivrEngland Provinces has passed the Commons,
and leave is given to bring in a Bill to extend the prohibi-
tion to all the Colonies. New- York, North- Carolina, and
Georgia excepted. They are determined you shall live
within yourselves, which, if you can effect, your triumph
is secure.

BALTIMORE (MARYLAND) COMMITTEE.

At a meeting of the Committee of Observation at Balti-
more, the 13th of March, 1775. Present, forty-eight
Members.

Captain Henry Tickle, of the Brig Henry and Joseph,
from Liverpool, addressed to Mr. George Woolsey, ap-
peared and reported on oath his cargo, consisting of five
thousand one hundred and thirty-three bushels of British
Salt, six half-crates of Earthen-ware, and one hogshead of
Rum for ship-stores ; and further made oath " that he had
not broken bulk or landed any part of his cargo since his
arrival in this Province."

Captain George Woolsey, the Consignee of the afore-
said Vessel, made oath that he hath not, nor hath any per-
son by his order, or with his privity or consent, unladen or
taken out any part of the cargo imported in said Vessel
since her arrival.

Ordered, That notice be given to Dr. John Stevenson,
that the Committee requests his attendance with Captain
William Moat, of the Brig Sally, at two o'clock, P. M.

The Committee proceeded to consider the state of the
Brig Henry and Joseph, and of the cargo imported in the
same.

Resolved unanimously, That the said cargo be not
landed.

Upon application made by Captain Woolsey to the Com-
mittee, for leave to reship the cargo of the Brig Henry and
Joseph; and on Captain Woolsey his engaging that the
said cargo shall not be landed in any part of North America,
between Nova-Scotia and Georgia; and on his further
engagement, that the master of the Vessel in which the
said cargo is to be reshipped, shall engage on oath, that he
will not (unless compelled to do so by stress of weather)
land the same within the parts before limited ; and that he
will produce a certificate from the place where the said
cargo shall be landed, of the landing of the same :

Resolved, That leave be given agreeable to the above.

Doctor John Stevenson, with Captain William Moat,
attending agreeable to notice ;

The Chairman acquainted them that information was
made to the Committee, that the cargo of Salt imported in
the Brig Sally, or part thereof, had been unladen, contrary
to the Resolution of the Committee made the sixth instant.

Doctor Stevenson declared that, apprehending the Reso-
lution entered into by the Committee on the sixth instant
did not prohibit him from shipping the Salt to any other
part of this Province, or Virginia, he had, in consequence
of such opinion, shipped a quantity on board four Bay
crafts to be disposed of for his account ; that no part of the
said Salt had been landed in Baltimore County ; that he

will deliver into the Committee the names of the skippers
of the several crafts, and will return an account of the pro-
ceeds of the Salt, and the same will freely give for the re-
lief of the poor of Boston ; and that the remainder of the
Salt now on board the said Brig shall not be landed in any
part of America, between Nova-Scotia and Georgia : And
Captain William Moat, having declared on oath, that the
remainder of the Salt now on board the Brig shall not be
landed within the limits aforesaid :

Resolved by the Committee, that the said apology be
accepted.

Information being made to the Committee, that many
misrepresentations of the proceedings of the Continental
Congress had been made, with a view to lessen the influ-
ence which the Association drawn, entered into, and recom-
mended by them, justly merited, and had almost universally
obtained ; and it appearing to the Committee that such
misrepresentations are made by artful, designing, and
wicked men, to divide the people, and defeat the mea-
sures now wisely pursued for the preservation of American
liberty :

Resolved unanimously, That it is the duty of this Com-
mittee, and of every member thereof, and that we will col-
lectively and severally persevere to carry strictly into exe-
cution the Association of the Continental Congress, and
enforce an observance of the same ; and that any attempt
to defeat such purpose will, with its author, be exposed to
the publick.

The Congress, by the Third Article of Association, hav-
ing recommended the disuse of all East-India Teas ; the
Committee request that their Constituents, in their several
families, will strictly adhere to this resolution ; and, however
difficult the disuse of any article which custom has rendered
familiar, and to many almost necessary, may be, yet they
are induced to hope the ladies will cheerfully acquiesce in
this self-denial, and thereby evince to the world a love to
their friends, posterity, and Country.

A very extraordinary arrangement having been lately
made in the Magistracy of this County, the Committee
reflecting on the conclusions which may probably be drawn
from it in distant places to the disadvantage of the gentle-
men superseded, cheerfully embrace the opportunity afford-
ed by the present meeting, to testify in favour of their con-
duct while they were in office. From personal acquaint-
ance, we know them to have been irreproachable in pri-
vate, faithful and impartial in publick life; and deservedly
entitled to the thanks of the whole County, for the con-
scientious discharge of the trust reposed in them.

Resolved, therefore, unanimously, That this Committee
ought, and we hereby do, in our own names, and in tl e
names of our constituents, sincerely thank those worthy
gentlemen, whose abrupt dismission, with all the circum-
stances attending it, does them the greatest honour. They
return to a private station with the general approbation of
the County, and the pleasing satisfaction of having honour-
ably acquitted themselves of their obligations during their
continuance in office. Their dismission is a real loss ; it is
the more to be regretted as, from the manner of it, we can
hardly expect that any of equal worth and character will
hereafter be prevailed on to undertake the troublesome, un-
profitable employment, now rendered distasteful to men of
independent spirit and firmness; and evidently exposing
them to unmerited insult.

Charles Ridgely, Chairman.

A true copy from the minutes.

Robert Alexander, Sec'ry pro tern.

EXTRACT OF A LETTER FROM A GENTLEMAN IN HARFORD
COUNTY, IN MARYLAND, TO HIS FRIEND IN PHILADEL-
PHIA, DATED MARCH 13, 1775.

I was last week at Baltimore, where I was witness to a
manoeuvre in Government which has greatly astonished
and alarmed the people. It is nothing less than almost a
total revolution in the Magistracy, which, we hear, is to be
executed throughout the Province. The reason of this
unprecedented stretch of power is now easily understood,
the Magistrates of this Province being, in general, firmly
attached to the liberties of their Country, and resolved
strictly to adhere to the determination of the Congress.

125

CORRESPONDENCE, PROCEEDINGS, &c, MARCH, 1773.

126

Those of Baltimore County were men of firm and inde-
pendent spirits, having nothing to hope, and nothing to fear
from Government, and were highly acceptable to the peo-
ple for their faithful and unwearied attendance on publick
business. During the sitting of Court, which was last
week, a rumour was spread abroad that a new commission
was expected, and some of the old Magistrates were said to
be dismissed, and a set of men introduced in their places,
the very mentioning of whose names was looked upon as
a burlesque on Magistracy. The commission, however,
was produced in Court, and read, when it was found that
nine of the oldest and best Magistrates were left out, and
eleven others named, some of whom had never been heard
of by the people, and others but too well known for their
uniform opposition to every measure that has been adopted
for the preservation of American freedom. The astonish-
ment, contempt, and indignation, which were visible in the
countenance of all present, gave disagreeable apprehen-
sions lest some violence should succeed ; but temperate
resentment was adopted, and will be pursued.

No reason was alleged for such a violent insult on the
Bench, nor could at first be conjectured. The Magistrates
who were thus disgracefully dismissed had been earnestly
solicited to engage in the business, and often refused, but
at length, out of respect to the Governour, and desirous
that the publick peace and good Government might be
maintained, they were prevailed on to act, and accordingly
executed their trust with great fidelity, much to the satis-
faction of the people, and with evident detriment to their
own private affairs. The affront that was designed has
totally failed of its intended effect ; for it was soon known
that the honour of their dismission was procured by the vilest
means of a contemptible junto in Baltimore Town, who
are incurably inimical to the rights of Americans, and the
veriest tools of Government. Their number and charac-
ters are exceedingly trifling; but they have found means, by
the lowest sycophantism, to attach themselves to men who
have the ear of our too easy Governour, and by the basest
calumnies and suggestions, have brought about this change
so irritating to the people. The better to conceal their
insidious design, some of the good old Magistrates were
permitted to keep their stations a little longer, till the tyros
should be fixed securely in their seats ; then it was not
doubted but they were to follow their brethren. But these
gentlemen, seeing through the flimsy veil, with a proper
and becoming spirit rejected the bait, and nobly threw up
their commissions, refusing to countenance such unworthy
treatment of their brethren, or associate with men whose
political principles they detested.

Two of the youngest Justices in the old commission
were made of the quorum in the new ; and whether they
were childishly tickled with this trifling distinction, or had
been tampered with, is not certainly known ; but, to the
mortification and grief of their friends, they were prevailed
on to qualify, by which they have shaken their credit
greatly with their countrymen. They were, indeed, men
of merit, and esteemed by the people, and inadvertently
engaged in this dirty business, not discovering the real
iles.gn of the manoeuvre, or adverting to the general char-
acters of the men who were placed by their sides. It is
thought they will yet resign, and thus regain the confidence
of their countrymen ; for the refusing or accepting of a seat
on this courtly Bench is now, very justly, made a criterion,
by which to know a man's political principles. He that
refuses, acts consistently, and exhibits an unequivocal
proof of his unshaken attachment to his Country ; he that
accepts cannot hope that any declarations of his own will
wipe off a well-founded suspicion that he is at least a
negative character.

I may, perhaps, by another opportunity, give you a
specifick description of the individuals who compose this
right worshipful group. Indeed, they are in general below
contempt, having no respect or authority among the people,
and I hear, are daily insulted in the streets, and lampooned
from all quarters. Can it be expected that men who are
the contempt and detestation of the people, will ever be
able to keep peace and good order in the community?
These are the blessed effects of that arbitrary spirit of
Government which, issuing from a polluted source, have
descended with increased contaminations to the remotest
departments of office.

DELAWARE ASSEMBLY.

Monday, Murcli 13, 1775.

The House met at Xciv-Castle, pursuant to their adjourn-
ment, [on the 26th of October last,] and adjourned till to-
morrow morning, ten o'clock.

Tuesday, March 14, 1775.

Messrs. George Read, Thomas McKean, and John
Clark, Members of this House, who were absent at the
beginning of this session, now appeared in the House, took
and subscribed the usual qualifications, and took their seats
accordingly.

Mr. McKean informed the House, that the late Repre-
sentatives of the Freemen of this Government met in
Convention at New-Castle, on the first and second days of
August last, and among other things nominated and ap-
pointed the Honourable Ccesar Rodney, Esq., George
Read, Esquire, and himself, or any two of them, Deputies
or Delegates on the part and behalf of this Government,
in a General Continental Congress, then proposed to he
held at the City of Philadelphia, on the first Monday in
September following, or at any other time or place that might
be generally agreed on, then and there to consult and
advise with the Deputies from the other Colonies, and to
determine upon all such prudent and lawful measures as
might be judged most expedient for the Colonies imme-
diately and unitedly to adopt, in order to obtain relief for
an oppressed people, and the redress of our general griev-
ances ; the proceedings of which Convention he delivered
in at the table, and the same were, by order, read.

He then proceeded to inform the House, that they, the
said Ceesar Rodney, George Read, and himself, repaired
to the City of Philadelphia, according to appointment,
and that the Congress had agreed to the several particulars
contained in a printed pamphlet, intituled, "The Journal
of the Proceedings of the Congress held at Philadelphia,
September 5th, 1774," and certified to be a genuine and
exact copy of the original by Charles Thomson, their Sec-
retary, which he delivered in at the table for the perusal
and consideration of the House.

Ordered, That the same be read.

And the same was done accordingly.

Resolved, That the same be detained under considera-
tion till to-morrow morning.

Then the House adjourned till to-morrow morning at
ten o'clock.

Wednesday, March 15, A. M.

The House resumed the consideration of the Proceedings
of the late Convention, and of the Continental Congress :
and after due deliberation,

Resolved, nemine contradicente, That this House do
approve of the conduct of the late Representatives of this
Government in their said Convention, and of their appoint-
ment of the said Ctesar Rodney, Thomas McKean, and
George Read, as Deputies on the part and behalf of this
Government.

Resolved, nemine contradicente, That this House do
approve of the Proceedings of the late Congress held at
the City of Philadelphia, and of the conduct of the gen-
tlemen appointed Deputies to attend the same on the part
of this Government.

On motion,

Resolved, nemine contradicente, That the thanks of this
House be given to all the Members of the said Congress,
and in particular to the gentlemen who represented this
Government at the same, for their faithful and judicious
discharge of the trust in them reposed.

Ordered, That the Minutes and Journal of the said
Convention and Congress be deposited amongst the files
and Minutes of this House.

On motion,

Resolved, nemine contradiantc, That this House will
make an allowance to the gentlemen who represented this
Government at the Congress, for their expense in attend-
ing the service aforesaid.

On motion,

Ordered, That Messrs. McKinly, Robinson, and Ridge-
ly, be a Committee for that purpose, and make report of
their proceedings this afternoon.

4 27

CORRESPONDENCE, PROCEEDINGS, &c, MARCH, 1775.

128

On motion of Mr. Ridgely,

That a Committee be appointed to prepare and bring in
a Bill to prohibit the importation of Slaves into this Gov-
ernment,

Ordered, That Messrs. Ridgely, Read, and Cloices be
a Committee for that purpose.

Thursday, March lfi, 1775.

The Committee appointed to consider of an allowance
to be made to the gentlemen who attended the late Con-
gress at Philadelphia, on behalf of this Government, for
their expenses during the sitting thereof, now report to the
House that they have considered the same, and are of opin-
ion that the sum of Sixty Pounds be allowed to each of
the said gentlemen, for their expenses on that service.

Resolved, nemine contradicente, That the House do
approve of the same, and that Orders be drawn by the
Speaker on the Trustees of the several Loan-Offices of
this Government for the same, according to the directions
of the Proportion Act.

On motion,

Resolved, nemine contradicente, That the Honourable
Casar Rodney, Speaker, Thomas McKean, and George
Read, Esquires, be and they are hereby appointed and
authorized to represent this Government at the American
Congress, proposed to be held at the City of Philadelphia,
on the tenth day of May next, or at any other time and
place, with full power to them or any two of them, together
with the Delegates from the other American Colonies, to
concert and agree upon such further measures as shall ap-
pear to them best calculated for the accommodation of the
unhappy differences between Great Rritain and the Colo-
nies, on a Constitutional foundation, which the House most
ardently wish for, and that they report their proceedings to
this House at their next meeting.

Friday, March 17, 1775.

On motion,

Ordered, That Messrs. Evans, Ridgely, McKinly, Hall,
and Rench, be a Committee to prepare Instructions for the
gentlemen appointed to represent this Government at an
American Congress to be held at Philadelphia, in May next.

Monday, March 20, 1775.

Mr. Speaker laid before the House a Letter which he
had received from three of the Colony Agents in London,
which was, by order, read, and ordered to be transcribed
upon the Minutes of the House ; and follows in these words,
viz:

London, December 24, 1774.

Sir : This is just to inform you, that having received the
Petition of the General Congress to the King, we immedi-
ately communicated the same to Lord Dartmouth, Secre-
tary of State for the American Department, as the regular
official method, and that by which only we could have ex-
pectation of obtaining an answer. His Lordship this day
informed us, that he had laid the same before the King ;
that His Majesty had been pleased to receive it very
graciously, and to say it was of so great importance that he
should, as soon as they met, lay it before his two Houses
of Parliament. We can now only add, that we are in great
respect, Sir, your most obedient and most humble servants,

W. Bollan,
B. Franklin,
Arthur Lee.
To the Honourable the Speaker of the Assembly of the

three Lower Counties on Delaware.

Tuesday, March 21, 1775.

A Petition from several Inhabitants of New- Castle Coun-
ty, and two Petitions from a number of the Inhabitants of
Kent County, praying the House to pass a Bill for estab-
lishing a Militia, were presented to the Chair, and by order
read the first time.

To the Honourable the Representatives of the Counties of
1\ew-Castle, Kent, and Sussex, in General Assem-
bly met, 14th March, 177&.

The Petition of the Inhabitants, freemen of Kent County,
most humbly shewetli :

That we conceive a well-regulated Militia, composed of
the gentlemen Freeholders and other free men, to be not
only a Constitutional right, but the most natural strength
and most stable security of a free Government, from the
exercise of which a wise people will not excuse themselves
even in time of peace.

That, happily secure in the affectionate protection of our
Mother Country, we have for some time past been care-
lessly negligent of Military art and discipline, and are, there-
fore, the more exposed to the insult and ravages of our
natural enemies at this unhappy time, when we have lost
our interest in the esteem and affection of our Parent
State.

We, therefore, pray your Honours to take our case into
your most serious consideration, and by passing an Act of
Assembly establishing a Militia throughout this Govern-
ment, grant us relief in the premises, and your Petitioners,
as in duty bound, will ever pray.

Thursday, March 23, 1775.

The Doorkeeper informed the House that Mr. Secre-
tary waited at the door.

Ordered, That he be admitted ; and he was admitted
accordingly, and presented to the Chair a written Message
from his Honour the Governour, with copies of two Procla-
mations, referred to in the same.

On motion,

Ordered, That the same be read ; which was done ac-
cordingly.

Ordered, That his Honour the Governour's Message be
transcribed on the Minutes; and follows in these words,
to wit :

A Message from the Governour to the Assembly.

Gentlemen: At your last sessions in October, I inform-
ed you that the jurisdiction of this Government had been
extended to the boundary lines now run and marked by
Commissioners appointed by the proprietors of Pennsylva-
nia and Maryland, and recommended it to you to estab-
lish such divisional lines in the Counties as the settlement
of the new boundary might require ; but soon after your
last adjournment, I was obliged, by His Majesty's com-
mands, signified to me in a letter from the Secretary of
State, by my Proclamation, dated the 2d of November, to
supersede that which I had issued on the 15th of Septem-
ber, for the above purpose of extending the jurisdiction un-
til His Majesty's pleasure should be further known therein.
'I have now, gentlemen, the satisfaction to acquaint you,
that 1 have lately been advised by the Right Honourable
the Earl of Dartmouth, that His Majesty, on further con-
sideration of the matter, is graciously pleased to approve of
the arrangement made by my Proclamation of the 15th of
September, and to permit me to recall that of the 2d of
November, so that you are now at full liberty to resume
the business I recommended to you at your last session.

John Penn.

New-Castle, 23d March, 1775.

Friday, March 24, 1775.

The Committee appointed to prepare and bring in a Bill
to prohibit the importation of Slaves into this Government,
now laid one on the table, which they submitted to tho
correction of the House.

On motion, by order, the same was read the first time.

The Committee appointed to prepare Instructions for
the gentlemen appointed by the House to represent this
Government at the American Congress, proposed to be
held at Philadelphia in May next, now report, that they
have essayed a draught of the same, which they laid on
the table for the inspection and correction of the House.

On motion, by order,

The same was read the first time.

On motion, by special order,

The Bill to prohibit the importation of Slaves into this
Government, was read the second time, paragraph by para-
graph, and, after sundry amendments, passed the House,
and was ordered to be engrossed.

Saturday, March 25, 17 75.

The engrossed Bill to prohibit the importation of Slaves
into this Government, was read and compared.

129

CORRESPONDENCE, PROCEEDINGS, &c, MARCH, 1775.

130

On motion,

Ordered, That Messrs. Ridgely, Clowes, and Clark,
be a Committee to wait upon his Honour the Governour,
with the Bill to prohibit the importation of Slaves into
this Goverment, for his perusal and concurrence.

Monday, March 27, 1775.

The Doorkeeper informed the House that Mr. Secre-
tary waited at the door.

Ordered, That he be admitted ; and he was admitted
accordingly, and informed the House that his Honour the
Governour, by him, returned the Bill to prohibit the im-
portation of Slaves into this Government, to which his
Honour cannot give his assent.

Wednesday, March 29, 1775.

On motion,

The draught of Instructions for the gentlemen appointed
by the House to represent this Government at an Ameri-
can Congress, proposed to be held at Philadelphia in May
next, was, by order, read the second time, paragraph by
paragraph, agreed to, and ordered to be transcribed on the
minutes, and follows in these words, to wit :

Instructions to the Deputies appointed by this Govern-
ment to meet in General Congress on the tenth day of
May next.

1. That in every act to be done in Congress, you stu-
diously avoid, as you have heretofore done, every thing
disrespectful or offensive to our most gracious Sovereign,
or in any measure invasive of his just rights and prerogative.

2. That you do adhere to those claims and resolutions
made and agreed upon at the last meeting of the Congress ;
yet, for the restoration of that harmony with the Parent
State which is so essential to the security and happiness of
the whole British Empire, and which is so ardently wish-
ed for by this House, you may, on your parts, yield such
contested claims of right as do not apparently belong to
the Colonists, or are not essentially necessary to their well
being.

3. If His Majesty should be pleased graciously to ap-
point any person or persons to treat with the Colonies on
the present unhappy disputes subsisting between them and
the Parent State, you, or any of you the Congress shall
nominate, may treat with such person or persons on behalf
of the inhabitants of this Government.

4. If the Congress, when formed, shall not, in every
question to be voted by Provinces, allow this Government
an equal vote with any other Province or Government on
this Continent, you are decently but firmly to urge the
right of this Government to an equal voice in Congress
with the other Colonies.

The House adjourned till the fifth day of June next.

PENNSYLVANIA COUNCIL.

At a Council held at Philadelphia, on Monday, 13th
March, 1775:

Present, the Hon. John Penn, Esquire, Governour,
Benjamin Chew and Edward Shippen, Junior, Esquires.

The Governour laid before the Board a Letter that he
received last night by the Packet from the Right Honour-
able the Earl of Dartmouth, one of His Majesty's principal
Secretaries of State, dated the 7th of January, 1775,
which was read, and follows in these words, viz :

Whitehall, January 7, 1775.

Sir : I am very much obliged to you for the early com-
munication of the proceedings of the General Congress.

These proceedings are of a very extraordinary nature,
and it is with concern 1 see, by your letter of the 6th of
December, that the Resolution for Non-Importation has
been so generally adopted in the Colony under your gov-
ernment. Such' measures and proceedings are but ill cal-
culated to restore peace and union between Great Britain
and the Colonies. But though they may in the moment
provoke the vengeance of Government, I will hope that we
may yet, in the consideration of the business, be led to
some proposition that may ultimately bring about a happy
accommodation upon some general constitutional plan.

Fourth Series. — Vol. ii. 9

Your letter of the 3d of November, No. 5, states the
case respecting the boundary line between Pennsylvania
and Maryland, in a very different light from that in which
it was represented to me. And the King, confiding in your
assertion that the extension of the jurisdiction of Permsyl-
vania up to the line settled and marked by the Commis-
sioners, had been so far from having the effect to disturb
the peace of his subjects, and occasioning violence and
bloodshed, that it had a quite contrary tendency, and given
universal satisfaction, is graciously pleased to approve the
arrangement made by your Proclamation of the 15th of
September, and permit you to recall that issued on the 2d
of November.

I am, Sir, your most obedient humble servant,

Dartmouth.

Deputy Governour Penn.

The Board, taking the latter part of the above Letter into
consideration, were of opinion that it would be advisable
for the Governour to issue a Proclamation agreeable to His
Majesty's permission, signified in the said Letter, to recall
the Governour's Proclamation of the 2d of November last.
It is accordingly ordered that a draught of a Proclamation be
prepared, to be laid before the Board at their next meeting.

Memorandum, March 16, 1775.
The Governour this day wrote to Governour Eden the
following Letter, on the subject of the Proclamation to be
issued respecting the boundary between Pennsylvania and
Maryland :

Philadelphia, March 16, 1775.

Sir : I make no doubt you have been informed, since
your return from England, that in the month of September
last I issued a Proclamation for extending the jurisdiction
of Pennsylvania and the Counties of New- Castle, Kent,
and Sussex, up to the boundary lines run and marked by
the Commissioners appointed to that service, and that I
afterwards revoked that Proclamation by a subsequent one
of the 2d of November, in consequence of His Majesty's
orders, signified to me by the Secretary of State, " that I
should desist from issuing any orders for extending the
jurisdiction of Pennsylvania beyond those places where it
had been usually exercised, until His Majesty's further
pleasure should be made known therein." 1 am now to
inform you that I have received a letter from the Earl of
Dartmouth by the last Packet, advising me that His Ma-
jesty, "on further consideration, is graciously pleased to
approve the arrangement made by my Proclamation of the
15th of September, and to permit me to recall that of the
2d of November ;" and I propose immediately to issue a
new Proclamation, to make known His Majesty's pleasure
in this matter, and to enforce that of the 15th of Septem-
ber.

I am, with great respect, your Excellency's most obedi-
ent and most humble servant, John Penn.

To His Excellency Robert Eden, Esquire, Governour
and Commander-in-Chief of the Province of Maryland.
Annapolis.

BOSTON TOWN-MEETING.

At a Meeting of the Inhabitants of the Town of Boston,
on Monday, March 13th, 1775, upon a motion made and
seconded,

Voted, That the Committee of Correspondence be di-
rected to draw up an exact state of the behaviour of the
Troops under the command of General Gage, and of the
Navy under the command of Admiral Graves, going as far
back as they shall judge proper ; and also carefully to ob-
serve their conduct in future, taking their information upon
oath before two Justices of the Peace, quorum unus, al-
ways giving legal notice to the persons accused of disor-
derly proceedings, and report to the Town.

Attest: William Cooper, Town Clerk.

MEETING OF THE INHABITANTS OF HACKENSACK, NEW-
JERSEY.

At a Meeting of the Inhabitants of the Precinct of
Hackensack, in the County of Bergen and Province of
New-Jersey, held pursuant to an Act of Assembly of the

131

CORRESPONDENCE, PROCEEDINGS, &c, MARCH, 1775.

132

said Province, on Tuesday, the 14th of March, in the year
of our Lord 1775,

Thomas Moor, Esq., Chairman.

This Meeting being heartily grieved at the unhappy
disputes now subsisting between Qreai Britain and her
American Colonies, and earnestly wishing that the present
misunderstandings may be removed, and such a reconcilia-
tion take place as may be consistent with the dignity of
Great Britain and the true interest of the Colonies ; and
being unanimously of opinion that it is the duty of every
loyal subject to adopt and encourage the most lenient mea-
sures, which may tend to heal and not inflame the present
differences:

We, therefore, in order to contribute what is in our pow-
er to this salutary purpose, and to show our loyalty to our
King, and love to our Country, do Resolve,

1. That we are and will continue to be loyal subjects to
His Majesty King George, and that we will venture our
lives and fortunes to support the dignity of his Crown.

2. That we disavow all riotous mobs whatsoever.

'■). That by humbly petitioning the Throne, is the only
salutary means we can think of to remove our present
grievances.

4. That we have not, nor (for the future,) will not, be
concerned in any case whatever with any unconstitutional
measures.

5. That we will support His Majesty's Civil Officers in
all their lawful proceedings.

Signed by thirty-seven Inhabitants.

COMMITTEE OF FREEHOLD, (MONMOUTH COUNTY,) NEW-
JERSEY.

March 14, 1775, P. M.
The Committee of Observation for the Township of
Freehold, in the County of Monmouth, New-Jersey, have
made repeated applications to the inhabitants of the Town-
ship of Shrewsbury, earnestly requesting and exhorting them
to comply with the instructions of the late American Con-
gress, in constituting for themselves a Committee of Observa-
tion, that they might conspire with their brethren in the other
Towns belonging to the County, in executing the Resolves
of said Congress ; but, although they have entertained
hopes, notwithstanding their former opposition, that they
would do it at their stated annual town-meeting, they are,
at this late hour, informed, that the said annual meeting of
Shrewsbury is broke up without a Committee being chosen,
or any one step taken whereby the least disposition is discov-
ered of their being inclined to adopt the Resolutions of said
Congress. They think it, therefore, their duty, however
painful the declaration, to bear publick testimony against
them.

And we do now unanimously enter into the following
Resolve, viz : That from and after this day, during our
continuance as a Committee, (unless they shall turn from
the evil of their ways, and testify their repentance by
adopting the measures of the Congress,) we will esteem
and treat them, the said inhabitants of Shrewsbury, as
enemies to their King and Country, and deserters from
the common cause of true freedom ; and we will hereafter
break off all dealings and connection with them while they
continue their opposition. We do furthermore recommend
the same conduct towards them to our constituents, and all
others ; earnestly hoping it may be a means of reclaiming
those deluded people to their duty and interest, whom we
shall always be pleased to receive and treat as returning
prodigals. Signed by order of the Committee,

Nathaniel Scudder, Clerk.

MEETING OF FREEHOLDERS, StC, IN NEW-WINDSOR,
(ULSTER COUNTY,) NEW-YORK.

March 14, 1775.

At a meeting of the Freeholders and other inhabitants
of the Precinct of New -Windsor, in the County of Ulster,
and Province of New-York, legally convened by mutual
consent, in order to elect a Committee of Observation, and
deliberate on other matters relative to our political welfare,
this 14th day of March, 1775. — Then proceeded, and
chose .Mr. George Denniston, Chairman, and the following
persons for the above named Committee, viz : Mr. Geoige

Denniston, Mr. Robert Cross, Mr. Joseph Belknap, Mr.
Francis Maiidivi/le, Mr. Nuac Shutts, and Mr. Hezekiah
White : afterwards did solemnly agree to, and with each
other, in observing the following Resolutions ourselves, and,
as far as our influence may extend, recommend them to
the observation of others, viz :

Resolved 1st, nem. con., That we acknowledge no other
Sovereign or Potentate on earth to be our lawful and liege
Sovereign, save His Majesty King George the Third, of
legal descent from that illustrious House of Brunswick,
which was, by the kind providence of God, established to
sway the British sceptre on just and equitable principles,
but more emphatically described and known by the name
of Revolution principles.

Resolved 'idly, nem. con., That we will yield to none in
point of affection and loyalty to our most gracious Sover-
eign, but will each one for himself, when thereunto legally
called, (even though to the most distant and remote parts
of His Majesty's Empire,) venture our lives and properties
in defence of our Sovereign's person, family, and Govern-
ment, when exercised on the above-named principles.

It is with the greatest regret, and deepest concern of
heart, we conceive a plan adopted and invariably pursued
for a number of years past, by the British Parliament, for
enslaving us, by levying taxes on us without our consent,
and declaring they (the Parliament) are fully vested with
power to make laws obligatory on us, in all cases whatso-
ever :

Resolved, therefore, Sdly,nem. con., That such declara-
tions and unbounded power assumed, are subversive of our
natural and legal rights as British subjects ; and that we
would be far deficient in point of duty to our King and the
British Constitution, were we to yield a tame submission
to them.

But as the wisdom and prudence of the whole Conti-
nent hath been called forth in appointing and holding a
Continental Congress, in order to state our grievances, and
point out the means by which we may be relieved from
them :

Resolved Athly, nem. con., That we do sincerely and
willingly accord to the Association entered into by that
body, with a full determination to abide by and observe the
same, and do unfeignedly thank our worthy Delegates of
the Province of Neiv- York, in conjunction with the rest
of that honourable body, for the care they have taken for
the security of our liberties, and the patriotick principles
they have exhibited to the world, which will remain more
sure and permanent in the annals of American history
than monuments either of brass or marble erected to their
honour and perpetuity of their memory.

And whereas it is agreed in the Seventh Article of the
Association, to improve the breed, and increase the num-
ber of Sheep :

Resolved 5thly, nem. con., That we will use our best
endeavours in promoting so laudable and beneficial an
undertaking, and do promise that we will not kill any
Sheep under four years old, or procure them to be killed
by others ; neither will we sell the best of our Sheep to
butchers, or others employed by them to purchase, where-
by the breed of our Sheep is much injured.

And further, we consider the Freedom of the Press as
the great palladium of English liberty ; therefore we will
do all in our power to encourage and support die same.
But there is a certain news-printer in New -York, named
James Rivington, who appears to us divested of every
principle of honour, truth, or modesty; his papers being
filled with pieces replete with falsehoods and mere chi-
canery, only designed, as we believe, to divide and lead
astray the friends of our happy Constitution :

Resolved, therefore, 6thly, nem. con., That we will
have no connection or intercourse with said Rn-ington,
nor will we purchase any of his publications until we receive
sufficient evidence of his sincere repentance; for we do be-
lieve he is a Ministerial hireling, an enemy to his Country,
and a traitor to the British Constitution.

And as a certain pamphlet, signed A. TV., A Farmer,
hath been for some time circulating among us, which is
artfully designed to impose on the illiterate and unthinking
part of mankind, having a show of plausibility, but the
foundation-principles on which it proceeds are notoriously
false :

133

CORRESPONDENCE, PROCEEDINGS, Sic, MARCH, 1775.

184

Resolved, therefore, Ithly, netn. con., That the said
pamphlet be now publickly burnt in contempt and ab-
horrence of the author, publisher, and vender of it, at the
same time holding them in our estimation as enemies to
their Country, with whom no friend to it should have any
connection, intercourse, or commerce ; well knowing that
every shilling of property we put into their hands, we are
in a certain proportion enabling them to purchase chains to
bind us in slavery. [And said pamphlet was burnt accord-
ingly.]

And further, as we do much esteem the wisdom and
prudence of the late Continental Congress held at Phila-
delphia, in September and October last, as well for their
recommending another Congress to be held in May next,
as for the other important services they have done us :

Resolved, Sthly, netn. con., That we are ready and
willing to co-operate with our brethren of the different
Towns and Precincts in this County, in choosing a Dele-
gate or Delegates to represent us in the next General Con-
gress, believing that the resolutions and determinations of
any man, or body of men on earth, cannot legally divest
us of this inherent right and privilege we enjoy as British
subjects.

Ordered, That these Resolves be printed by John Holt.
George Denniston, Chairman.

LETTERS FROM PHILADELPHIA, TO MR.
YORK.

RIVINGTON, NEW-

Philadelphia, March 15, 1775.

What in the name of common sense can make the
Whigs exult ? Can you find out wherein Lord North has
flinched? Do you see any prospect of His Majesty's
relaxing, applauding the Congress, or being dumbfounded
at their proceedings? I am sure I cannot. It is true a
number of Merchants in the Trading Cities have petitioned,
and they will probably be followed by the Manufacturing
Towns ; but do they ask a repeal of all the Acts which
the Congress have recited as grievances ? No : they wish
a restoration of peace between the State and its members
to take place ; but is it likely a lasting harmony can issue
from a compliance with all the demands of America — by
gratifying her petulant humours? If she be now indulged,
she will rise in her demands, till there will be no end of
them. But if every Act relating to the Colonies should
be repealed ; if the Parliament should relinquish all claim
of power whatever over the Colonies, I declare I should
be surprised to see the warm patriots rejoice, although they
might perhaps force a superficial smile. They know, and
the Tories know full well, that all their consequence is
derived from the calamities of this convulsed Country,
who, like salamanders, glory in ajiery element. 'Tis true,
there are great numbers of honest, well-meaning people,
who have been so far deluded as perhaps to approve of
every act of violence which has been committed ; these
probably would most sincerely rejoice in an amicable
adjustment of the dispute ; and they would be told by
their leaders it was owing to them that the salvation of
their Country was brought about, although a more prudent
conduct on our part would have effected it more certainly,
and with a thousandth part of the noise and confusion,
without creating party strife amongst one another, and
without alienating the affections of the Colonists from the
best of Sovereigns that ever held the British sceptre.

Ambition, and a thirst of power, are dangerous to com-
bat with. Our patriots have in general chosen for their
leaders the most violent and zealous ; and I cannot persuade
myself but that they would sacrifice their Country to their
ambitious views. They are elated beyond measure at the
thoughts of filling such exalted stations, having usurped
not only the Legislative, but the Executive branches of
Government, and both of them unlimited and unbounded.
They will not, I am confident, part with these precious
offices without great reluctance and pain ; and they will
regret any circumstance that shall deprive them of them.
I do not indiscriminately aim at all Committee-men, or all
persons who side with them ; I only direct my discourse to
such as are active in widening the breach, and have had
the art or address to make the vulgar believe liberty is the
grand object of their pursuit. These are dangerous men,
of whom we ought to beware, who have designs, and are

carrying on intrigues unknown, unsuspected but by too few.
For my part I shall be happy beyond expression at any
step which may check the career of these unskilful pilots,
and place men of more ability and more integrity at the
helm. Let me most heartily felicitate you on the King's
having received the Petition. It will have two good effects.
It will convince the world that he is disposed to hear the
complaints of his subjects, and give them the weight they
may deserve. It will, besides, deprive our Republicans of
the pleasure they would take in inveighing against him,
which they would certainly have done most bitterly, had
he rejected their Petition without a hearing.

Philadelphia, March 15, 1775.
You cannot conceive with what pleasure our Patriots
circulated a false report that the mob had pulled down
Mr. Rivington's house; had cut off the ears of a number
of Tories ; and that Mr. Rivington, in making his escape,
had broke his back. This they told with every mark of
joy, approaching almost to rapture. But how inconceiv-
ably were they dejected, when they found the whole was a
Putnamitish lie. Their lank, lean visages betrayed the
most mortifying affliction, which they have not yet got the
better of, although this was almost as improbable as the
lie which the same party set on foot respecting the bom-
bardment of Boston; yet as blood-thirsty Demagogues
were rejoiced at the report, they really believe it true. To
what a shift are the sons of licentiousness driven, when
nothing but lies will serve to keep alive the dying faction.
In Boston, the Republican Printers assert, that the Testi-
mony which the loyal Friends gave forth the beginning of
this year was wrote ten years ago, and accuse the few
Printers of altering the date from 1765 to 1775. This is
so bare-faced a Putnamite, that it will not gain ground
even in the faction. This same party have had general-
ship enough so far to invert the order of nature and reason
as to make a Whig a Tory, and a Tory a Whig ; which
denominations are now generally adopted. They have
done the same by slavery and liberty ; and* truths by them
are called lies, and the most gross and palpable falsehoods
secure a credit equal to proofs of holy writ.

Philadelphia, March 16, 1775.

Our Fanus, Tornado, and the lean Cassius, are the tri-
umviri who now support the sons of violence. To these
the Patriots look up as naturally as the mariner to the
vane, or the philosopher to the thermometer; and they
have lately seen a gleam of joy darting from their counte-
nances. At this the whole race of Whigs appeared to
rejoice ; for they were before indeed in a state of despera-
tion. Like a drowning man, they catch at a straw, but,
alas! it will not support them. It is, however, a gross im-
position on the publick for them to attempt to make the
world believe that it would please them to have the matter
finally settled ; and you may depend, if their numbers
(now fast decreasing) should not fail, they will make some
excuse, if possible, to keep up the ball ; for when that
drops, their whole importance will evaporate in fumo.

J. POWNALL, SECRETARY TO THE BOARD FOR TRADE AND
PLANTATIONS, TO LIEUTENANT GOVERNOUR COLDKN.

Whitehall, March 15, 1775.
Sir: 1 am desired by the Lords Commissioners for
Trade and Plantations, to send to you for your informa-
tion, the inclosed Extracts of the Minutes of their Lord-
ships' Proceedings upon several Petitions and Memorials
referred and presented to them, relative to the pretensions
of sundry persons to the District, commonly called King's
District, and other lands adjacent thereto, in the Province
of New- York, heretofore claimed by Mr. Van Rensselaer.
I am, Sir, your most obedient humble servant,

J. POWNALL.

Lieutenant Governour Coldcn.

At a Meeting of His Majesty's Commissioners for Trade
and Plantations, Thursday, February S3, 1775. Present
Mr. Jenyru, Mr. Keene, .Mr. Gascoyne, Mr. GreviUe.

The Earl of Dartmouth, one of His Majesty's principal
Secretaries of State attends.

135

CORRESPONDENCE, PROCEEDINGS, &c, MARCH, 1715.

186

Their Lordships took into consideration the state of His
Majesty's Province of New- York, in respect to the disputes
which have arisen in that Province, and the disorders that
have prevailed therein, to the disturbance of the publick
peace, by means of the claims and pretensions that have
been set up on different grounds and titles to Lands in that
Province ; and the following Papers relative to a tract of
Land laying between Hudson's River and the boundary
line between Neiv- York and Massachusetts-Bay, hereto-
fore claimed under an ancient Grant by Mr. Van liensselaer
and others, were read and considered, viz :

Order of the Lords of the Committee of Council for
Plantation Affairs, dated 26th August, 1773, referring to
this Board, for their consideration and report, the Petition
of Major General Simon Fraser, on behalf of himself and
sixteen other Officers, praying that they may be included
in any grant or order, hereafter to be made in favour of the
Captains Campbell and Ourry, and their associates, of
Lands in the Province of New- York, so as to entitle the
Petitioners to a share thereof, agreeable to the proportions
specified in the Royal Proclamation of the 7th of Octo-
ber, 1763 :

Order of the Lords of the Committee of Council for
Plantation Affairs, dated August 26, 1773, referring to this
Board, for their consideration and report, the Petition of
Lieutenant Colonel Stewart, and seven others, in behalf of
themselves, and several other Officers, who served in Ame-
rica during the late war, setting forth their services, and
the expenses they have incurred in prosecuting His Majes-
ty's right to certain Lands claimed by JohnVan Rensselaer,
Esq., in New-York, and praying for a grant of a tract
containing two hundred and fifty thousand acres of the said
Land:

Petition of the proprietors of the Weslenhook Patent
to Governour Tryon, praying that patent may be granted
to each proprietor for such share of the Lands contained
in several lots therein specified, as to each of them shall,
upon the said division, be allotted, (except out of the lots
No. 9, 12, and — , the land formerly granted to Stephen
Bayard and his associates,) and that the said grants be sub-
ject to those conditions to which they are now subject by
their present patent:

Petition of James Savage in behalf of himself and
several hundred others, to the Board, dated September 20,
1774, praying the confirmation of their title to certain
Lands, therein described, in the Province of New-York,
which are possessed and have been cultivated by them.

Letter from Mr. Savage to the Secretary to this Board,
dated February 17th, 1775, relative to his Petition, and
inclosing —

A Letter to him from P. V. Schaack, dated New- York,
December 24th, 1774, on the same subject :

M r. Savage's case :

Memorial of Samuel Bayard, in behalf of himself and
his associate, praying to be put in quiet possession of their
property in a tract of Land called Westcnhook Patent, by
the dismission of Mr. Savage's Petition, and the prohibi-
tion of all acts of violence by his adherents :

Copy of a Letter from Mr. Samuel Bayard, Junior, to
JViUiain Knox, Esquire, dated June 11th, 1774, on the
same subject.

It appearing, that Mr. Bayard's Memorial was not sub-
scribed by any person, and the Secretary having informed
the Board that it had been delivered to him this morning
by Captain Williams, on behalf of the proprietors of the
Westenhook Patent, who claim a part of the Lands in
question : Captain Williams was called in ; and being ask-
ed if he had authority from the proprietors of the Westen-
hook Patent to act for them in their business, he said he
had, and accordingly subscribed his name to the Memorial
above-mentioned, as their agent. And the Board being in-
formed that Mr. Savage attended without, in behalf of the
present occupants and possessors of the Lands in question,
with Mr. Ingersoll, his solicitor and advocate, and also
Colonel McLean, and others, on behalf of the Officers,
whose Petitions are mentioned above, they were called in,
and each respectively heard in support of their claims and
pretensions.

Colonel McLean having stated that the Governour and
Council of A'cio- York had, in direct disobedience to an
older in Council, (made in behalf of the reduced officers,)

confirmed to Mr. Van Rensselaer, by patent, Lands which
they claimed; and had not taken any notice of a cartat
entered by them against such confirmation : Mr. Tryon,
who was present, desired that a letter to the Earl of Dart-
mouth, containing his reasons for such confirmation might
be read ; and Lord Dartmouth having directed the said
letter to be produced, it was accordingly read.

At a Meeting of His Majesty's Commissioners for Trade
and Plantations, Friday, February 24th, 1775. Present :
Mr. Jenyns, Mr. Keene, Mr. Gascoyne, Mr. Greville.

The Earl of Dartmouth, one of His Majesty's principal
Secretaries of State attends, and also Mr. Tryon, Govern-
our of New- York.

Their Lordships made a further progress in the conside-
ration of the business of New-York, mentioned in the pre-
ceding Minutes; and the parties were further heard in what
they had to offer in support of their respective claims and
pretensions.

At a Meeting of His Majesty's Commissioners for Trade
and Plantations, Monday, February 29th, 1775. Present:
Mr. Jenyns, Mr. Jolliffe, Mr. Gascoyne, Mr. Keene.

The Earl of Dartmouth took into further consideration
the business of New-York, mentioned in the two prece-
ding days' Minutes, and the parties interested in the Lands
in question attending again ; Mr. Dagge, solicitor for the
reduced Officers, submitted to the Board the following pro-
posal for adjusting the matter in controversy, so far as it
regarded the claims of said Officers, and those of the pre-
sent possessors and occupants, viz:

" That the Petitioners be allowed to locate their Lands,
claimed under the Proclamation, upon that tract within the
Province of New- York which lies between the North and
South Manors of Rensselaer, bounded on the West by the
Kinderhook Patent, and on the East by the jurisdiction
line between the Provinces of New- York and Massachu-
setts, as far as such locations can be made without preju-
dice to the present occupancies, (now under actual im-
provement,) allowing to each occupant at the rate of fifty
acres of woodland for every two hundred acres of Land
under actual improvement, and so in proportion for a
greater or lesser number of acres ; such parcels of wood-
land to be as contiguous as possible to each occupancy, to
which the same shall be respectively allotted. And if any
quantity of woodland shall have been already inclosed by
any of the occupants, such woodland, if less than the pro-
portion above-mentioned, shall be reckoned as part of the
woodland so directed to be allotted to each occupancy as
aforesaid ; and if it exceeds the number of fifty acres, in
that case no woodland shall be allotted ; and that, in so far
as the vacant Lands shall fall short of the quantity claimed
by the Petitioners, they be allowed to locate double the
quantity of such residue in some other part of the Prov-
ince of New-York, or elsewhere in North America, not
already granted."

Mr. Savage having desired, by his solicitor, some time
to consider the said proposal, the parties withdrew ; and,
after a short time, they desired to be called in, when Mr.
Savage signified his consent to and approbation of the said
proposal, in which the Board acquiesced, not thinking that
any thing had been stated or proved on the part of the
Westenhook proprietors, that made them, in this case, ob-
jects of the attention of Government ; and, therefore, that
they should be left to prosecute their claims, if they had
any, in such other manner as they should be advised.

At a Meeting of His Majesty's Commissioners for Trade
and Plantations, Thursday, March 2d, 1775. Present :
Mr. Jenyns, Mr. Keene, Mr. Greville.

The Earl of Dartmouth, one of His Majesty's principal
Secretaries of State attends ; also Mr. Tryon, Governour of
New-York.

Their Lordships took into further consideration the state
of the Province of New- York, more particularly in regard
to the Lands between the Rivers Hudson and Connecticut,
upon which both the Province of New- York and that of
New-Hampshire heretofore claimed a right of jurisdiction ;
and upon parts of which settlements have been made by
grants of the Governours of both Provinces, in some in-

137

CORRESPOxNDENCE, PROCEEDINGS, &c, MARCH, 1775.

138

stances, of the same Land, by means whereof the publick
peace hath been disturbed, and the course of publick justice
obstructed.

Upon the subject of those claims, it was proposed by
Governour Tryon, and agreed to by the Board, that such
of the grants made by the Governour of New-Hampshire
to the West of Connecticut River as have not yet been
confirmed, and do not interfere with any grants made by
the Government of New-York, or that of Canada before
the conquest, should now be confirmed to the present oc-
cupants and possessors, subject to the payment of the quit-
rent reserved upon all Lands granted in New- York.

That with regard to those grants made by the Govern-
our of New-Hampshire, of Lands in those districts, which
do either interfere with grants made by the Governour of
New- York, or the Governour of Canada before the con-
quest, it would be advisable to recommend the having
some question stated, that should comprehend the whole
of the case, so as to include every claim, and an action
brought thereupon in the Supreme Court of New- York,
upon such grounds that, either by means of special verdict,
or upon some plea of errour, an appeal might lie from the
judgment of the said Court to the Governour and Council,
and from them to His Majesty in his Privy Council ; or
otherwise, that the matter should be left to be settled by
arbitration, in any mode that should be satisfactory to the
different parties.

At a Meeting of His Majesty's Commissioners for Trade
and Plantations, Thursday, March 9th, 1775. Present:
Mr. Jenyns, Lord Robert Spencer, Mr. Gascoyne, Mr. Jol-
liffe, Mr. Keene.

The Earl of Dartmouth, one of His Majesty's principal
Secretaries of State, attends.

The Governour of New-York attending without, with
Mr. Burke, agent for that Province, and also Colonel Read,
lately arrived from thence ; they were called in, and their
Lordships resumed the consideration of the state of the
disputes touching the propriety of Lands in New-York be-
tween Hudson River and Connecticut River ; and Colonel
Read, who is largely interested in those lands, having
stated that he had material evidence and information to lay
before their Lordships touching this matter, it was agreed
to reconsider the propositions stated in the Minutes of the
2d instant, when Governour Tryon, who was going to Bath
on account of his health, should return from thence.

Their Lordships being of opinion that it would be pro-
per, in order to prevent any further survey or location of
Lands in King's District, and on the other Lands surrender-
ed by Mr. Van Rensselaer, that a copy of the Minutes of
their Lordships' proceedings on this subject should be sent
to Lieutenant Governour Colden, the Secretary was or-
dered to transmit a copy of those Minutes, and also to give
another copy thereof to Mr. Savage.

A true copy : J. Pownall.

Committee Chamber, New- York, 15th March, 1775.

The Sub-Committees appointed by this Committee to
join with the Vestrymen of each Ward in this City, in su-
perintending the polls held this day, in the said Wards, for
taking the votes of the Freemen and Freeholders on the
question, " Whether they would choose Deputies for this
City and County, to meet such Deputies as the Counties
may elect, and join with them for the sole purpose of ap-
pointing out of their body Delegates for the next Congress?"
And if yea, who such Deputies should be ;

Reported, That they had accordingly attended the said
polls, and delivered to the Committee the several poll-lists
by them taken, under their hands, and the hands of the
Vestrymen of such Wards, from which it appears that
eight hundred and twenty-six Freeholders and Freemen
voted for Deputies, and elected the eleven persons nomi-
nated by this Committee ; and that one hundred and sixty-
three voted against the measure of appointing Deputies.
The said Sub-Committees also informed this Committee
that almost all those who voted against the appointment of
Deputies, declared they were nevertheless for Delegates.
Ordered, That the said reports and poll-lists be lodged
with the Secretary, and that Circular Letters be written to
all the Counties in the Colony, informing them of the ap-

pointment of Deputies for this City and County, and re-
questing them, with all convenient speed, to elect Deputies
to meet in Provincial Convention at the City of New- York,
on the 20th day of April next, for the sole purpose of
appointing Delegates to represent this Colony at the next
Congress to be held at Philadelphia, the 1 0th day of May
next.

Ordered, That the above extracts from the proceedings
of the Committee be published.

By order of the Committee :

John Alsop, Deputy Chairman.

LETTER FROM THE GENERAL COMMITTEE OF THE CITY OF
NEW-YORK, TO ALL THE COUNTIES IN THE COLONY.

New-York, 16th March, 1775.

Gentlemen : The late Congress having deemed it
expedient that, in the present critical state of American
affairs, another should be held at Philadelphia the 10th of
May next ; and the neighbouring Colonies having already
appointed Delegates for that purpose, we beg leave to call
your attention to that subject, and to remark, that the hon-
our, as well as the interest of the Province requires that
we also should be fully and properly represented.

Influenced by these considerations, this City and County
conceive it highly necessary that a Provincial Convention
should, without delay, be formed of Deputies from all the
Counties, for the sole purpose of appointing out of their
body Delegates for the next Congress ; and, therefore, have
already chosen their Deputies. They prefer this mode to
any other, as it tends to unite the Counties, and to preserve
that harmony between them so essential to the interest of
our common cause.

Be pleased to communicate this letter to the inhabitants
of your County ; and should they concur with us in senti-
ment, we beg they will consider whether it would not be
best to choose their Deputies so soon as that they may be
down here by the 20th of April next ; which day we
take the liberty of proposing to you as proper for the meet-
ing of the Convention.

We forbear urging any arguments to induce your con-
currence, being well persuaded you are fully sensible that
the happiness of this Colony, and the preservation of our
rights and liberties depend on our acceding to the general
union, and observing such a line of conduct as may be firm,
as well as temperate.

By order of the Committee :

Isaac Low, Chairman.

ELECTION OF DEPUTIES TO THE CONVENTION IN NEW-
YORK.

New-York, March 16, 1775.

On Monday, the 6th instant, the Freeholders and In-
habitants of this City and County, by a very great majori-
ty, assented to the following mode of proceeding, viz: —
That the General Committee should nominate eleven per-
sons to be, on Wednesday, the 15th, proposed to the choice
of the Freemen and Freeholders, as Deputies, to meet on
the 20th of April such Deputies as the other Counties
might elect, and join with them, for the sole purpose of
appointing out of their body Delegates for the next Gene-
ral Congress, agreeable to the recommendation of the last.
Accordingly the Committee nominated the following per-
sons, viz : Philip Livingston, John Jay, James Duane,
John Alsop, Isaac Low, Francis Lewis, Abraham Wal-
ton, Abraham Brasher, Alexander McDougall, Leonard
Lispenard, and Isaac Roosevelt.

From the time of the nomination every artifice was used,
(by the same party who have constantly exerted their
utmost abilities to obstruct and disconcert every measure of
opposition to the tyrannical acts of the British Ministry,)
in order to prevent the election of the Deputies nominated
by the Committee, and to frustrate the design of a Provin-
cial Congress, and of sending Delegates (at least with full
powers from the whole Province) to the next General
Congress. Before the day of election a great number of
pieces were published on both sides, full of artifice and
specious pretences on the Ministerial part, and of sound
weighty argument on the other. Between the two, the

U9

CORRESPONDENCE, PROCEEDINGS. &c, MARCH, 1775.

140

argument and the views of each party were pretty well
understood at the day of decision, when the votes of the Free-
men and Freeholders were fairly taken, as follows, viz :

For the Deputies. Against the Deputies.

Out Ward, 66 Out Ward, —

North Ward, 99 North Ward, 36

Eastward, 1«5 East Ward, 22

South Ward, 42 South Ward, 23

WestWard, 213 West Ward, 23

Dock Ward, 52 Dock Ward, 32

Montgomery Ward, 228 Montgomery Ward, 27

"825 163

Besides great numbers of the majority, who, finding
their votes not wanted, did not vote.

It is hoped the transactions of this day will in some mea-
sure restore the generality of the people to the good opin-
ion and esteem of the neighbouring Colonies.

Last night our General Committee appointed a Sub-
Committee to draw up, and report at the next stated meet-
ing, a state of the facts relative to the landing of Goods
out of the Beulah. :

New- York, March 16, 1775.

Yesterday polls were opened in the different Wards, for
the election of eleven Delegates for this City, to meet
Deputies who may be chosen by the Counties to form a
Convention, out of whom to elect Delegates for the next
Congress at Philadelphia. Of those who voted for this
measure, it may with truth be affirmed, there was a great
proportion who did it because there was no alternative.
The disposition of our fellow-citizens is in favour of Dele-
gates to meet the sister Colonies in Congress, as it is sup-
posed that their principles respecting the unhappy situa-
tion we are in, with relation to Great Britain, are so well
known, that no violent or unjustifiable measures will be
assented to on their part. Sensible that the people were
determined to send Delegates, it was the art of those who
framed the question, upon which the poll was taken, to
state it in such a manner that the electors might be led to
think that they would be deprived of Delegates unless
they pursued the mode pointed out to them, for when
numbers of voters demanded that their votes might be taken
for the five Delegates, it was absolutely refused. Had a
poll been opened upon fair principles, stating the alterna-
tive, concerning which the division of sentiments arose,
there is no doubt but the old five Delegates would have
been elected almost unanimously. When the warmth of
opposition has a little subsided, and those generous, candid,
and liberal sentiments are suffered to prevail which have
characterized the good people of this City, they will see who
have endeavoured to mislead them ; they will be shocked to
think that they have espoused a measure which is founded
upon depriving a very great number of their fellow-citizens
of the liberty of declaring their sentiments ; and they will
suspect that cause which would require such a conduct, and
those leaders who could adopt it ; they will be alarmed
when they consider that they have been instrumental in
turning out those very Delegates, of whose conduct certain
folks pretend to be such admirers.

They will see that all this is a scheme to supplant some
of them, and to introduce into the Congress a man who has
fomented all our intestine divisions for a number of years
past, and who, in the course of the last year, so much dis-
turbed the peace of this City by his presumptuous attempts.
They will perceive that if it was only intended to have
a Provincial Delegation, five Deputies would have an-
swered as well as eleven on behalf of this City, for they
will altogether make hut one vote, as they will doubtless
vote by Counties, not individually. Consider, then, what
dependance can be placed in those who insidiously pre-
tended that the number eleven was fixed upon, on purpose
that the six might have an opportunity of putting in the
old five ! Consider that these schemes have been the means
of depriving us of a Delegate, whose conduct at the last
Congress was equally spirited and independent with any
other of that body, and in all probability one more of the
old Delegates will follow the same example ; and then
reflect what you have gained by this measure.

A Citizen.

Philadelphia, March 1G, 177.").

According to publick notice, the subscribers towards a
fund for establishing an American Manufactory of Wool-
lens, Linens, and Cottons, met in Carpenters' Hall, on the
16th of March, 1775, to consider of a plan for carrying the
same into execution. Daniel lloberdeau being chosen
President, opened the business of the day with a sensible
and elegant speech, pointing out the advantages of estab-
lishing the aforesaid Manufactories in this Country. The
Company afterwards proceeded to the election of Officers,
when the following gentlemen were chosen : — Treasurer,
Joseph Stiles; Secretary, James Cannon; Managers,
Christopher Marshall, Richard Humphreys, Jacob Wincy,
Isaac Gray, Samuel Wetherill, Junior, Christopher Lud-
wick, Frederick Kuhl, Robert S. Jones, Richard Wells,
Thomas Tilbury, James Popham, Isaac Howell.

The business of the day being finished, the Company
unanimously voted their thanks to the President, and re-
quested that he would favour them with a copy of his
Speech for publication, which he politely consented to.

A Speech delivered in Carpenters' Hall, March 16th,
before the Subscribers towards a fund for establishing
Manufactories of Woollen, Cotton, and Linen, in the
City of Philadelphia.

Gentlemen : When I reflect upon the extent of the
subject before me, and consider the small share of know-
ledge 1 possess of it, I confess I rise with timidity to speak
in this assembly ; and it is only because the requests of
fellow-citizens in every laudable undertaking should always
operate with the force of commands, that 1 have prevailed
upon myself to execute the task you have assigned me.

My business, upon this occasion, is to lay before you a
few thoughts upon the necessity, possibility, and advan-
tages of establishing Woollen, Cotton, and Linen Manu-
factories among us.

The necessity of establishing these Manufactories is ob-
vious from the Association of the Congress, which puts a
stop to the importation of British goods, of which woollens,
cottons, and linens always made a considerable part. So
large has been the demand for these articles, and so very
necessary are they in this Country, that it is impossible for
us to clothe ourselves without substituting some others in
their room. I am far from thinking that the Non-Import-
ation Agreement will be so transitory a thing as some have
supposed. The appearance of a change of measures in
England respecting the Colonies, does not flow from a
conviction of their injustice. The same arbitrary Ministers
continue in office, and the same arbitrary favourites con-
tinue to abuse the confidence of our Sovereign. Sudden
conversion should be trusted with caution, especially when
they have been brought about by interest or fear. I shall
think the liberties of America established at an easy price
by a two or three years' Non-Importation Agreement. By
union and perseverance in this mode of opposition to Great
Britain, we shall afford a new phenomenon in the history
of mankind, and furnish posterity with an example to teach
them that peace, with all the rights of humanity and jus-
tice, may be maintained by the exertion of economical as
well as military virtues. We shall, moreover, demonstrate
the falsehood of those systems of Government which ex-
clude patriotism from the list of virtues, and show that we
act most surely for ourselves, when we act most disinter-
estedly for the publick.

The possibility of establishing Woollen, Cotton, and
Linen Manufactories among us, is plain, from the success
which hath attended several attempts that have been made
for that purpose. A great part of the inhabitants of seve
ral of the Counties in this Province clothe themselves
entirely with woollens and linens manufactured in their
own families. Our wool is equal in quality to the wool of
several European Countries ; and if the same pains were
bestowed in the culture of our Sheep, which are used in
England and Spain, I have no doubt but in a few years our
wool would equal the wool of Segovia itself. Nor will there
be a deficiency in the quantity of wool which will be neces-
sary for us, if we continue to adhere to the Association of the
Congress as strictly as we have done. If the City of Phila-
delphia consumes 20.000 Sheep less this year than it did last,
how many 20,000 Sheep may we suppose will be saved

141

CORRESPONDENCE, PROCEEDINGS, &c, MARCH, 1775.

142

throughout the whole Province ? According to the ordi-
nary increase in the hreed of Sheep, and allowing for the
additional quantity of wool, which a little care of them will
produce, I think 1 could make it appear that in five years
there will he wool enough raised in the Province to clothe
the whole of its inhabitants. Cotton may he imported
upon such terms from the West-indies and Southern Colo-
nies, as to enable us to manufacture thicksets, calicoes,
&c, at a much cheaper rate than they can be imported
from Britain. Considering how much these stuffs are
worn by those classes of people who constitute the ma-
jority of the inhabitants of our Country, the encourage-
ment of the Cotton Manufactory appears to be an object
of the utmost consequence. I cannot help suggesting in
this place, although it may appear foreign to our subject,
that the Trade to the West-Indies and Southern Colonies
for cotton would create such a commercial union with the
Middle and Northern Colonies, as would tend greatly to
strengthen that political union which now subsists between
them. 1 need say nothing of the facility of cultivating
flax, nor of the excellent quality of the linens which have
been already manufactured among us. I shall only add,
that this manufactory may be carried on without lessening
the value of that trade which arises from the exportation
of our flaxseed to Ireland.

I cannot help laying a good deal of stress upon the pub-
lick spirit of my countrymen, which removes the success
of these Manufactories beyond a bare possibility, and seems
to render it in some measure certain. The Resolves of
the Congress have been executed with a fidelity hardly
known to laws in any Country, and that too without the
assistance of fire and sword, or even of the Civil Magis-
trate, and in some places in direct opposition to them
all. It gives me the utmost pleasure to mention here,
that our Province is among the foremost of the Colonies
in the peaceable mode of opposition recommended by the
Congress. When I reflect upon the temper we have dis-
covered in the present controversy, and compare it with
the habitual spirit of industry and economy for which we
are celebrated among strangers, I know not how to esti-
mate our virtue high enough. I am sure no objects will
appear too difficult, nor no undertakings too expensive for
us in the present struggle. The sum of money which has
been already subscribed for the purpose of these Manufac-
tories, is a proof that I am not too sanguine in my expect-
ations from this Province.

I now come to point out the advantages we shall de-
rive from establishing the Woollen, Cotton, and Linen
Manufactories among us. The first advantage 1 shall
mention is, we shall save a large sum of money annually
in our Province. The Province of Pennsylvania is sup-
posed to contain 400,000 inhabitants. Let us suppose
that only 50,000 of these are clothed with the woollens,
cottons, and linens of Great Britain, and that the price of
clothing of each of these persons, upon an average, amounts
to Five Pounds sterling a year. If this computation be just,
then the sum annually saved in our Province by the manu-
factory of our clothes, will amount to £250,000 sterling.

Secondly : Manufactories, next to Agriculture, are the
basis of the riches of every Country. Cardinal Ximenes
is remembered at this day in Spain, more for the improve-
ment he made in the breed of Sheep, by importing a num-
ber of rams from Barharij, than for any other services he
rendered his Country. King Edward the Fourth and
Queen Elizabeth, of England, are mentioned with grati-
tude by historians for passing Acts of Parliament to import
a number of Sheep from Spain; and to this mixture of
Spanish with English Sheep, the wool of the latter owes
its peculiar excellence and reputation all over the world.
Louis the Fourteenth, King of France, knew the impor-
tance of a Woollen Manufactory in his Kingdom, and in
order to encourage it allowed several exclusive privileges
to the Company of Woollen Traders in Paris. The effects
of this Royal patronage of this Manufactory have been
too sensibly felt by the English, who have, within these
thirty or forty years, had the mortification of seeing the
trade up the Levant, for woollen cloths, in some measure
monopolized by the French. It is remarkable that the
riches and naval power of France have increased in pro-
portion to this very lucrative trade.

Thirdly : By establishing these Manufactories among us,
we shall employ a number of poor people in our City, and
that too in a way most agreeable to themselves, and least
expensive to the Company ; for, according to our plan, the
principal part of the business will be carried on in their
own houses. Travellers through Spain inform us, that in
the Town of Segovia, which contains 60,000 inhabitants,
there is not a single beggar to be seen. This is attributed
entirely to the Woollen Manufactory which is carried on in
the most extensive manner in that place, affording constant
employment to the whole of their poor people.

Fourthly: By establishing the Woollen, Cotton, and Linen
Manufactories in this Country, we shall invite manufac-
turers from every part of Europe, particularly from Britain
and Ireland, to come and settle among us. To men who
want money to purchase lands, and who, from habits of
manufacturing, are undisciplined to agriculture, the prospect
of meeting with employment as soon as they arrive in this
Country, in a way they have been accustomed to, would
lessen the difficulties of emigration, and encourage thou-
sands to come and settle in America. If they increased
our riches by increasing the value of our property, and if
they added to our strength by adding to our numbers only,
they would be a great acquisition to us. But theie are
higher motives which should lead us to invite strangers to
settle in this Country. Poverty, with its other evils, has
joined with it, in every part of Europe, all the miseries of
slavery. America is now the only asylum for liberty in
the whole world. The present contest with Great Britain
was, perhaps, intended by the Supreme Being, among other
wise and benevolent purposes, to show the world this
asylum, which, from its remote and unconnected situation
with the rest of the globe, might have remained a secret
for ages. By establishing manufactories, we stretch forth
a hand from the ark to invite the timid manufacturers to
come in. It might afford us pleasure to trace the new
sources of happiness which would immediately open to our
fellow-creatures from their settlement in this Country.
Manufactories have been accused of being unfriendly to
population. I believe the charge should fall upon slavery.
By bringing manufacturers into this land of liberty and
plenty, we recover them from the torpid state in which
they existed in their own Country, and place them in cir-
cumstances which enable them to become husbands and
fathers, and thus we add to the general tide of human hap-
piness.

Fifthly : The establishment of Manufactories in this
Country, by lessening our imports from Great Britain,
will deprive European luxuries and vices of those vehicles
in which they have been transported to America. The
wisdom of the Congress cannot be too much admired, in
putting a check to them both. They have in effect said
to them, " Thus far shall ye go, and no farther."

Sixthly : By establishing Manufactories among us, we
erect an additional barrier against the encroachments of
tyranny. A people who are entirely dependant on for-
eigners for food or clothes, must always be subject to them.
I need not detain you in setting forth the misery of holding
property, liberty and life upon the precarious will of our
fellow-subjects in Britain. I beg leave to add a thought
in this place which has been but little attended to by the
writers upon this subject, and that is, that poverty, confine-
ment, and death are trifling evils when compared with that
total depravity of heart which is connected with slavery.
By becoming slaves we shall lose every principle of vir-
tue. We shall transfer unlimited obedience from our
Maker to a corrupted majority in the British House of
Commons, and shall esteem their crimes the certificates of
their commission to govern us. We shall cease to look
with horrourupon the prostitution of our wives and daugh-
ters, by those civil and military harpies who now hover
around the liberties of our Country. We shall cheerfully
lay them both at their feet. We shall hug our chains.
We shall cease to be men. We shall be slaves.

I shall now consider the objections which have been
made to the establishment of Manufactories in this Country.

The first, and most common objection to Manufactories
in this Country is, that they will draw off our attention
from Agriculture. This objection derives great weight
from being made originally by the Duke of Sully, against

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CORRESPONDENCE, PROCEEDINGS, &c, MARCH, 1775.

144

the establishment of Manufactories in France. But the
history of that Country shows us, that it is more founded in
speculation than fact. France has become opulent and
powerful in proportion as Manufactories have flourished in
her; and if Agriculture has not kept pace with her Manu-
factories, it is owing entirely to that ill-judged policy which
forbade the exportation of grain. I believe it will be
found, upon inquiry, that a greater number of hands have
been taken from the plough, and employed in importing,
retailing, and transporting British woollens, cottons, and
linens, than would be sufficient to manufacture as much of
them as would clothe all the inhabitants of the Province.
There is an endless variety in the geniuses of men ;
and it would be to preclude the exertion of the faculties
of the mind to confine them entirely to the simple arts
of agriculture. Besides, if these Manufactories were con-
ducted as they ought to be, two-thirds of the labour of
them will be carried on by those members of society who
cannot be employed in agriculture, namely, by women and
children.

A second objection is, that we cannot manufacture
cloths so cheap here, as they can be imported from
Britain. It has been the misfortune of most of the Manu-
factories which have been set up in this Country, to afford
labour to journeymen only for six or nine months in the
year, by which means their wages have necessarily been
so high as to support them in the intervals of their labour.
It will be found, upon inquiry, that those Manufactories
which occupy journeymen the whole year, are carried on
at as cheap a rate as they are in Britain. The expense
of manufacturing cloth will be lessened from the great share
women and children will have in them ; and 1 have the
pleasure of informing you that the machine lately brought
into this City for lessening the expense of time and hands
in spinning, is likely to meet with encouragement from the
Legislature of our Province. In a word, the experiments
which have been already made among us, convince us that
woollens and linens of all kinds may be made and bought
as cheap as those imported from Britain; and I believe
every one who has tried the former, will acknowledge that
they wear twice as well as the latter.

A third objection to Manufactories is, that they destroy
health, and are hurtful to population. The same may be
said of Navigation, and many other arts which are essen-
tial to the happiness and glory of a State. I believe that
many of the diseases to which the manufacturers in Britain
are subject, are brought on, not so much by the nature of
their employment, but by their unwholesome diet, damp
houses, and other bad accommodations, each of which
may be prevented in America.

A fourth objection to establishing Manufactories in this
Country, is a political one. The liberties of America have
been twice, and we hope will be a third time preserved by
a non-importation of British manufactures. By manufac-
turing our own clothes we deprive ourselves of the only
weapon by which we can hereafter effectually oppose Great
Britain. Before we answer this objection, it becomes us
to acknowledge the obligations we owe to our Merchants
for consenting, so cheerfully, to a suspension of trade with
Britain. From the benefits we have derived from their
virtue, it would be unjust to insinuate that there ever will
be the least danger of trusting the defence of our liberties
to them ; but I would wish to guard against placing one
body of men only upon that forlorn hope to which a non-
importation agreement must always expose them. For
this purpose I would fill their stores with the manufactures
of American looms, and thus establish their trade upon a
foundation that cannot be shaken. Here, then, we derive
an answer to the last objection that was mentioned ; for in
proportion as manufactures flourish in America, they must
decline in Britain, and it is well known that nothing but
her Manufactories have rendered her formidable in all our
contests with her. These are the foundations of all her
riches and power. These have made her Merchants
Nobles, and her Nobles Princes. These carried her so
triumphantly through the late expensive war ; and these are
the support of a power more dangerous to the liberties of
America than her Fleets and Armies — I mean the power
of corruption. 1 am not one of those vindictive patriots
who exult in the prospect of the decay of the Manufacto-

ries of Britain. I can forgive her late attempts to enslave
us, in the memory of our once mutual freedom and hap-
piness. And should her Liberty, her Arts, her Fleets
and Armies, and her Empire, ever be interred in Bri-
tain, I hope they will all arise in British garments only in
America.

JOURNAL OF THE PROCEEDINGS OF THE GENERAL COM-
MITTEE OF THE CITY OF NEW-YORK.

Committee Chamber, March 16, 1775.

The Committee met, by adjournment, this evening at the
Exchaiige : Present,

Isaac Low, Chairman,
John Jay,
Isaac Sears,
Alexander McDougall,
John Broome,
Abraham P. Lott,
Abraham Duryee,
Francis Lewis,
John Lasher,

Joseph Totten,
Thomas Ivers,
Hercules Mulligan,
John Anthony,
Thnophilus Anthony,
William Goforth,
Francis Basset,
Jeremiah Piatt,

Comfort Sands,
John Borrian,
Nicholas Roosevelt,
Edward Fleming,
Frederick Jay,
George Jancway,
Lindley Murray,
Lancaster Burling.

Mr. Lewis, from the Sub-Committee appointed to state
the case of Messrs. Robert Murray and John Murray
respecting their having landed Goods from on board the
Ship Beulah, reports a Letter from the Committee of
Elizabethtown to this Committee, which Letter is in the

words following, viz :

Elizabethtown, Friday Evening, )

"0, 1775. \

Twelve o'clock, March 10,
Gentlemen : In consequence of the information received
from Captain Sears relative to the suspicion that some part
of the Cargo of the Ship Beulah had been unladed before
she quitted this coast, the Committee of Observation of
this Town met this evening, and made inquiry respecting
the affair ; and thereupon have to inform you, that it ap-
pears to them that a Boat belonging to this Town did, last
Monday morning, sail from New-York to Sandy- Hook ;
that on Tuesday evening she returned here. Two of the
witnesses examined were the boatmen, and the person
who we suspect engaged the Boat, who refused to be
sworn; but from their behaviour, and what they said on
examination, and other circumstances, we believe that it
was the Boat seen to be hovering about the Beulah, and
took Mr. John- Murray out of the Ship, and that Goods
from said Ship were landed by the said Boat at Staten-
Jsland. We are not able at present to furnish you with
any further particulars. The Committee will make further
inquiry into this matter, and if any thing further appears,
will give you immediate information ; in the mean time we
thought proper to give the above early intelligence, to
furnish you with a clue in all probability of making more
important discoveries on Staten- Island, where we think
the Goods were undoubtedly landed, at the East Ends, or
in the Kills. Signed by order of the Committee :

Jonathan Hampton, Chairman.
To the Committee of Observation of New- York.

The said Sub-Committee further report another Letter
to this Committee, from the Committee of Elizabethtown,
which is in the words following, viz :

Elizabethtown, March 11, 1775.

Gentlemen : The Committee of Observation of this
Town have this day used their endeavours to make a fur-
ther discovery relating to the unlading part of the Cargo
of the Ship Beulah, but are not able to give you the infor-
mation they desire. Samuel Lee, a boatman of this Town,
employed and accompanied by Ichabod B. Barnet, Esq.,
(son-in-law to Robert Murray?) appear, from very strong
circumstances, to have been the persons concerned in that
affair, who went from New-York on Monday last to the
Ship.

We have had Lee before us. He appears greatly per-
plexed, but cannot be persuaded to give any clear infor-
mation of the matter, he being under an apprehension that
he, by that means, may be the ruin of some particular per-
sons in New-York. The said Barnet was also before us,
but refused to answer the questions proposed to him ; he
only offered to swear (if it would be any satisfaction to us)
that no Goods from the Beulah were landed at this Town.

145

CORRESPONDENCE., PROCEEDINGS, &c, MARCH, 1775.

146

which, however, we did not .accept. And there is reason
to believe that Lee would have given information, had it
not been for said Barnet, who, it appears, has prevented
him from making the desired discovery.

We have only to add, that the Boat employed on this
occasion is the property of Isaac Woodruff, Esq., who, it
clearly appears, was perfectly innocent, and knew nothing
of the affair.

Signed by order of the Committee :

Jonathan Hampton, Chairman.

To the Committee of Observation of New- York.

The Sub-Committee also report, that on the same even-
ing, and before this Committee had received any further
evidence respecting this matter, Messrs. Murrays volun-
tarily produced to this Committee, at their meeting on the
13th March, instant, a Letter in the words following:

To the General Committee for the City and County of
New-York. :

Gentlemen : Having been disappointed in our design
of reshipping the Cargo of the Ship Beulah (lately arrived
from London) in another bottom, by which we were great
sufferers, and though we then conceived that such our
design, if executed, would have been a compliance with
the Resolution of the Congress ; we acknowledge that,
to alleviate in some measure the great loss we sustained,
we have been induced to land a small part of her Cargo ;
and notwithstanding we are persuaded that it would be
exceedingly difficult, if not impossible, to obtain full and
sufficient evidence of the fact, and that the Goods are
secured in a place of safety where they cannot be disco-
vered, yet, upon mature reflection, and with a view to
satisfy the publick and this Committee, as well as to pre-
vent the trouble of any further inquiries upon this subject,
we are led to make this declaration, and to acknowledge
that we are sorry for the imprudent step we have taken,
and that we do condemn the same as an unjustifiable mea-
sure ; and as a further proof of our willingness to conform
to the Resolution of the Congress, as far as is now in our
power, we do hereby engage to reship all the said Goods,
according to the tenourof the Association, and to give the
Committee full and satisfactory proof thereof, within seven
days from this time.

Dated 13th March, 1775. Robert Murray,

John Murray.

And that they did then offer to make a full and ample
confession of every fact relative to the unloading Goods from
the Beulah, and to deliver to the Committee at their then
next meeting, a full state of the case, under their oath and
affirmation.

The said Sub-Committee further report, that Messrs. J.
and R. Murray did accordingly deliver a statement of that
transaction, which is in the words following, viz:

Inventory of Goods taken out of the Ship Beulah, at
Sandy- Hook.

Eighty-four bolts of Russia Duck.

Twenty pieces of Raven Duck.

Two hundred and forty packs of Pins.

Five bales of Pepper, two of which are in lihds.

Sixty-five bolts Oznaburghs.

Ten pieces Blue Strouds.

Fourteen pieces Irish Linen.

Six pieces White Hessen.

Eleven pieces Irish Sheeting.

One paper bundle directed to Henry Van Vleck.

One bundle Straw, supposed a Case-maker's Cushear.

One small box of Books, Papers, Sic.

Wrapper for the Strouds.

With wrappers for said Goods.

City of New- York, ss.

John Murray, of the City of New- York, Merchant,
being duly sworn, saith, that the above is a full, just, and
true inventory of all the Goods which were lately taken
out of the Ship Beulah at Sandy-Hook, by the deponent,
anil were by him landed at Elizabcthtown in Neto- Jersey.
That the deponent did, yesterday, voluntarily make an
acknowledgment to the Committee of Elizabethtown afore-
said, that he had so taken and ianded the said Goods,

Fourth Series. — Vol. ii. 10

and did this day deliver the whole of said Goods to the
said Committee, who took the same into their custody and
possession; where he believes the same now are. That
the Boat in which the said Goods were taken out of the
said Ship belonged to Isaac Woodruff, which the depo-
nent hired for the purpose, of Samuel Lee, who was mas-
ter of the said Boat. That Mr. Woodruff did not know
(as this deponent believes) for what purpose the said Boat
was hired, nor did the deponent inform the said Mr. Lee
on what business he wanted the said Boat ; nor did he
appear to know at the time the Boat was hired, that he
was employed on any business contrary to the Association.
That the agreement with the said Lee was only to go with
the Boat where he was directed, and to do what he was
bid. That Mr. Ichabod Barnet, of Elizabethtown, and
Samuel Reade, of this City, went with the said Samuel
Lee in the said Boat down to the said Ship, at the time
aforesaid. That Mr. Barnet was acquainted with the
design of the Boat's going down to the said Ship ; but the
deponent does not know that Mr. Reade was previously
acquainted with such design, though at the Vessel he assisted
in taking the said Goods out by the direction of this depo-
nent, in whose store he is an assistant. That John Gra-
ham, clerk to this deponent and his partner, was on board
the Ship with the deponent, at the time when the Goods
were taken out, but did not see the Goods taken out, being
(as the deponent believes) asleep at that time in the
cabin; and that his business on board was to copy invoices
and letters ; neither does this deponent know or believe
that the said Graham ever heard any conversation between
the deponent and any other person respecting the taking
out the said Goods. That when the Goods were on board
the Boat, the deponent, and all the other persons above-
mentioned, proceeded with her for Elizabethtonm, but
stopped at Staten-Island, where they all went on shore ;
and Graham and Reade took passage from thence in the
Staten-Island Ferry-Boat for Neto- York ; and the depo-
nent, with Lee and Mr. Barnet, proceeded from Staten-
Island to Elizabethtown in the said Boat, where all the
said Goods were landed by them, and put into Mr. Ichabod
Bamet's store ; that the said Ichabod Barnet had no in-
terest in the said Goods, but what he did in the said busi-
ness was merely at the request of this deponent and his
said partner, and the deponent believes with an intention
entirely to oblige them. That while the Ship lay at the
watering-place, the Captain and this deponent took into
Kipp's small sailing-boat sundry small articles, the princi-
pal of which the deponent believes were presents, but
does not know the particulars. That the deponent at the
same time took into the said little Boat, two small Cheeses,
about two hundred Lemons and Oranges, and a dozen and
nine bottles of Beer, and about two bushels of Potatoes for
the use of the deponent and his brother, all which were
brought up in the said Boat by this deponent and Captain
Bussell; and the Cheeses, and the other aftermentioned
articles, except the Beer, were presents from the Captain.
That in the whole of this transaction, so far as respects the
delivery of the Goods from on board the Ship at the Hook,
Captain Bussell acted by the order and direction of this
deponent and his partner, having no interest in the Goods
so delivered. And this deponent further saith, that he
neither knows nor believes that any Goods were taken out
of the said Ship after her arrival here, nor since her sailing
from Sandy-Hook, except the Baggage belonging to some
passengers, and except the Goods herein before enumera-
ted and mentioned ; nor that any other persons than those
above-mentioned, had any agency or concern in taking out
or landing the said Goods, except the Ship's crew, and
except also one Marsh, who, at Elizabethtown, accident-
ally passing by, was employed to assist in landing the
same ; but the deponent believes he did not know where
the Goods came from. And further saith not.

John Murray.

Sworn the 15th day of March, 1775, before me,

Andrew Gautier.

City of New-York, is.

Robert Murray, of the said City, being duly affirmed
according to law, doth declare and affirm, that so far forth
as he is acquainted with the facts contained in the forego-
ing Deposition, the same are true ; and that he neither

147

CORRESPONDENCE, PROCEEDINGS, be., MARCH, 1775.

148

knows nor believes that any more or otlier Goods, or
things were taken out of the said Ship lieulah, since her
arrival here, than what arc specified in the foregoing De-
position ; and that he believes no other person to have
been concerned in the said business, except those men-
tioned in this Deposition. Robert Murray.

Affirmed the 15th March, 1175, before me,

AmiUKH G U 'TIER.

The said Sub-Committee further report, that the said
Messrs. Robert and Joint Murray did write a Letter to
this Committee, accompanying the said stale of the case ;
which Letter is in the words following:

To the General Committee for the City and County of
New- York :

Gentlemen: The annexed Depositions contain as full
and candid an account of the transaction relative to the
landing the Goods from the Ship Jieuluh, as we are able
to give ; in the doing of which we have studied to give
the Committee, and our fellow-citizens, the utmost satis-
faction we are capable of.

John Murray being obliged to go to Elizabethtown to
take an inventory of the Goods, found the Committee
then sitting, and conceived it to be his duty, as the Goods
were within their jurisdiction, to give them notice thereof,
and to make a full acknowledgment to them: upon doing
which, they took, with his consent, possession of the Goods
as mentioned in the affidavit.

We still declare our readiness to reship the said Goods
as nearly as is now in our power, agreeable to the tenour
of the Association, or to do otherwise with them, as the
Committee of Elizabethtown shall think proper to inti-
mate or direct ; and that we are also ready to give this
Committee any further satisfaction respecting the said
Goods, that they may recommend. Being desirous further
to testify the sense we have of the imprudent measure we
have taken, as well as our concern for the trouble and
uneasiness it has given our fellow-citizens, we would wish
to make such further satisfaction to the publick as might
be most agreeable to them ; and therefore do hereby cheer-
fully engage to give the sum of Two Hundred Pounds
towards repairing the hospital in this City, lately destroyed
by fire.

We are, gentlemen, very respectfully, your assured
friends, Robert Murray,

John Murray.

Now. York, March 15, 1775.

The said Sub-Committee further report another Letter
from the Committee of Elizabethtown, enclosing an Affi-
davit of Samuel Lee; which Letter and Affidavit are in
the words following, viz :

Elizabethtown, March 14, 1775.

Sir: Enclosed 1 send you the Affidavit of Samuel Lee,
boatman, relative to the unlading part of the Cargo of the
Ship Beulah, which needs no comment.

I am, however, particularly desired by our Committee,
earnestly to request of your Committee to protect Mr.
Lee, as far as lies in their power, from any insult on
account of this affair. He is a person well known here
to be of good character, and who, by his honesty and in-
dustry, has justly acquired the esteem of all the inhabitants
of this Town ; and it is the opinion of our Committee lie
was unwarily led to act the part he did, as will, in part,
appear by his Affidavit. 1 will only add, that we should
be glad that whenever the Affidavit shall be read, this
Letter may be read also.

By order of the Committee :

Jonathan Hampton, Chairman.

New-Jersey, Borough of Elizabeth, ss.

Samuel Lee, of Elizabethtown, boatman, being duly
sworn on the Holy Evangelists of Almighty God, deposeth
and saith, That on Sunday the 5th instant, he (at the
request of Ichabod B. Barnet, Esquire) sailed from Eliza-
bethtown aforesaid, to New-York, in the Boat or Sloop he
usually goes in, the said Barnet going as a hand with hiin ;
that he arrived there the same evening ; that while they
were on their passage, said Burnet informed this depo-
nent that he must make haste to unlade his Boat as soon as
he should arrive at New-York, for that a Vassal was arrived

at the Hook from the JVest-Indies, and that he wanted
this deponent to go with him with his Boat, and take
some Goods out of her; that said Boat was unloaded at
\i ir- York on Monday morning, and immediately thereaf-
ter this deponent, and the said Barnet, sailed with the said
Boat for Sandy-Hook; that at the dusk of the evening of
the same day they came along-side of a Ship, which this
deponent believes was the Beulah, and about eight o'clock
he was told he might go to bed, which he accordingly did,
and went to sleep. About twelve, was awakened, and
desired to put off from said Ship, and make sail, which
accordingly was done; that he saw the said Barnet, with
Mr. John Murray, and one Graham, his clerk, were then
on board his Boat ; that on Tuesday morning they touched
on Staten-Lland, where Mr. Graham landed, but no Goods
were landed there; that on Wednesday morning, about one
o'clock, they came along-side the store of said Barnet, at
E/izabcthtoivn, where the said John Murray, lhabod B.
Barnet, and this deponent, landed and stored in the said
Bamct's store, as near as he can remember, the following
Goods, to wit: a small bale, a box about three feet long,
one box about a foot square, the contents of which are
unknown to this deponent ; also a quantity of Sail Duck, a
number of bolts of Oznaburgbs, about half a dozen pieces of
Linen, and some pieces of Linen Cloth, which this depo-
nent supposed to be Drilling ; which Goods, in the whole,
this deponent thinks were in quantity about one ton and a
half, or not exceeding two tons. And this deponent saith,
that said Goods must have been taken out of said Ship, and
put on board said Boat, while he was below as aforesaid, as
there were no Goods on board his Boat when he left ISeic-
York to go to said Ship ; and further the deponent saith, that
he did not sleep so sound but that he heard the noise of peo-
ple working upon the deck, and that when he was called
up as aforesaid, and had come upon deck, he perceived
the hatches of his Boat open, and the said Goods then
lying in the hatchway. And further the deponent saith
not. Samuel Lee.

Sworn at EJizabcthtoien, this 13th day of March, 1775,
before me, John Blanchard, Alderman.

Which Report beino read,

Resolved, That this Committee do approve thereof: and
Ordered, That the same be published agreeable to the
directions of the Eleventh Article of the Association.
By order of the Committee:

Isaac Low, Chairman.

TO THE INHABITANTS OF NEW-YORK.

New-York, March 16, 1775.

Beloved Countrymen : Let us read, hear, and endea-
vour rightly to understand the subsequent passages and in-
junctions of the most Holy Bible, that divinely perfect, infal-
lible, and eternal rule of all our voluntary acts and moral
behaviour. Read, heard rightly, fully undeistood, and with
exact punctuality obeyed, they may, for aught any mortal
knows to the reverse, by a divine benediction operate pow-
erfully, and contribute much to the restoration of that union
and harmony between Great Britain and her American
Colonies, so essentially requisite to promote the prosperity,
welfare, and felicity of the whole English Empire ; and,
therefore, so very ardently wished and longed for by all good
Protestant, loyal subjects of our very gracious Sovereign,
and most august Monarch, King George the Third.

The texts referred to, and recommended to a candid
perusal, and attentive, exact deliberation, are these:

Eiodus xxii. 28: Thou shah not revile the gods, nor
curse the ruler of thy people. See. also Math. xxii. from
the 17th to the 21st, inclusive. The words run thus, ver-
batim : Tell us, therefore, what thinkest thou ? Is it law-
ful to give tribute unto Ctcsar, or not ? But Jesus per-
ceived their weakness, and said, why tempt ye me, ye
hypocrites ? Show me the tribute money. And they
brought unto him a penny ; and he saith unto them, whose
is this image and superscription ? They say unto him,
Casar's. Then saith he unto them, render therefore unto
Gesar the things which are Cesar's, and unto God the
things that are 6Ws. Also, Rom.\\u. 1 — 8: Let every soul
he subject unto the higher powers. For there is no power
but of God; the powers that be are ordained of God.

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CORRESPONDENCE, PROCEEDINGS, fcc, MARCH, 1775.

150

Whosoever, therefore, resisted] the power, resisteth the
ordinance of God. And (note well) they that resist
shall receive unto themselves damnation: For rulers are
not a terrour to good works, hut to the evil. Wilt thou
not be afraid of the power? Do that which is good,
and thou shalt have praise of the same : for he is the
Minister of God to thee for good. Rut if thou do that
which is evil, be afraid, for he beared] not the sword in
vain : for he is the Minister of Go/!, a revenger, to execute
wrath upon him that doeth evil. Wherefore, ye must needs
he subject, not only for wrath, but also for conscience
sake. For this cause pay ye tribute also ; for they are
God's Ministers, attending continually upon this very thing.
Render therefore to all their dues ; tribute to whom tribute
is due ; custom to whom custom ; fear to whom fear ; hon-
our to whom honour. Owe no man any thing ; but to love
one another. For he that loveth another hath fulfilled the
law. 2 Peter ii. 13, 14 : Submit yourselves to every ordi-
nance of men for the Lord's sake; whether it be to the
King as supreme, or unto Governours, as unto them that
are sent by him for the punishment of evil doers, and for
the praise of them that do well. Prov. xx. 2: The fear
of the King is as the roaring of the lion ; whoso provoketh
him to anger, sinneth against his soul. Be just, be free.

Now-York, March 20, 1775.

lift, Holt: In Rivington's Gazetteer of last week, I
saw a collection of Scripture texts adduced to countenance
the doctrines of passive obedience and non-resistance. This
attempt reminded me of Satan's quoting Scripture to en-
courage presumption ; and indeed absolute passive obedi-
ence and non-resistance in all cases, is as contrary to the
word of God, as presumption. That your readers may be
convinced of this, I here furnish you with the following
texts of Scripture, which I desire you would publish the
first opportunity.

Eiodum. 15 — 20: The Egyptian midwives disobeyed
the cruel order of their King, to kill the male infants of the
Israelites, and for this generous and humane refusal, they
were signally blessed of the Lord. The Israelites, with
reason, disobeyed the inhuman mandate of their. Monarch.
1 Sam. xiv. 15. And his footman justly disobeyed him.
Also, (I Sum. xxii. 17,) Mordecai, Shadrach, Mtschach,
and Abednego. The Prophet Daniel, and the Apostles
disobeyed the unlawful commands of Kings and Magis-
trates. Compare Esther iii. 1 — 9; Daniel iii. 15 — 18;
Damel vi. 7—10; Acts iv. 18—20; Acts v. 27—29.
From these quotations, it appears that when resistance to
the orders of Magistrates is forbidden in Scripture, it is
meant of resistance to just and legal orders. To be con-
vinced that oppression, tyranny, and unrighteous acts of
Government, are odious to the Supreme Being, consider
the following texts: 2 Sam. xxiii. 3 : He that ruleth over
man must be just, ruling in the fear of God. Jer. xxx.
20 : I will punish all that oppress my people. Isaiah x. 1 :
Wo unto them that decree unrighteous decrees, and that
write grievousness, which they have prescribed to turn aside
the needy from judgment, and to take away the right from
the poor of my people. Ezek. xiv. 9 : Thus saitli the
Lord God, remove violence and spoil, and execute judg-
ment and justice ; take away your exactions from my peo-
ple, saith the Lord. Ecclesiaslcs vii. 7 : Surely oppres-
sion maketh a wise man mad. Psalm lxxii. 4: He shall
break in pieces the oppressor. Eiodus iii. 7, 8, 9: And
the Lord said, I have surely seen the affliction of my peo-
ple, which are in Egypt, and have heard their cry, by
reason of their task-masters, for I know their sorrows and
am come down to deliver them out of the hand of the
Egyptians, and to bring them up out of that land, unto a
good land, and a large, unto a land (lowing with milk and
honey. Now, therefore, behold, the cry of the children of
Israel is come up unto me, and I have also seen the op-
pression wherewith the Egyptians oppress them; and ac-
cordingly he brought them out of the house of bondage
with an high hand and an outstretched arm, and drowned
their oppressors, Pharoah and his Egypt aim, in the licd-
Sca. Rehobuam took the council of the young men, and
rejected the old men's advice; and answered the people
roughly, and said he would add to their burdens, and not
ease them ; whereupon many of the tribes revolted, and

the King thereupon going to fight against them to reduce
them to submission, is fobidden of God. Compare 2 Chron.
x. and 14, with 1 Kings xii., and 2 Chron. xi. Thus
saith the Lord, ye shall not go up nor fight against your
brethren. A good hint for the Army ! Peruse the iii. iv.
v. vi. and vii. chapters of the book of Esther. Chapter
iii. 8 : And Hainan said unto King Ahasuerus, there is a
certain people scattered abroad, and dispersed among the
people in all the Provinces of thy Kingdom, and their laws
are diverse from all people : neither keep they the King's
law ; therefore, it is not for the King's profit to suffer them.
If it please the King, let it be written, that they may be
destroyed, and I will pay ten thousand talents of silver to
the hands of those that have the charge of the business to
bring it into the King's treasuries ; and the King took the
ring from his hand, and gave it unto Human, the Jew's
enemy ; and the King said unto Hainan, the silver is given
to thee, the people also, to do with them as it seemeth
good to thee. Ilaman, however, failed in his bloody de-
signs against the Jews ; they were delivered from the med-
itated destruction, and he was hanged on a gallows of his
own raising. A dreadful warning this to all vindictive
and sanguinary Ministers ! When the Jews were devoted
to destruction by the edict of King Ahasuerus, all avenues
to the throne were shut up, and free access to the Monarch
prohibited, on pain of death. Queen Esther, urged by
absolute necessity, ventured to petition the King in these
dangerous circumstances, and succeeded. An apology this,
for our glorious Congress, if it needs one. O that it may
be an example of the success of their Petition. Bribery
is expressly forbidden in the word of God. Exodus xxiii.
8: Thou shalt not take a gift, for a gift blindeth the eves
of the wise, and perverteth the words of the righteous.
Prov. xxix. 4 : He that receiveth gifts overthroiveth the
land. See persons threatened for this sin, 1 Sam. viii. 3;
Isaiah i. 23, v. 22; Jer. xxii. 17; Ezek. xxii. 27; Hos.
iv. 18; Amos v. 12; and Mich. iii. 1 1.

The whole tenour of the Gospel is diametrically opposite
to every species of tyranny and oppression ; the love of
mankind is its grand peculiarity. Our Saviour informs us
that the love of our neighbour is the great commandment
of the Law ; and he exhorts his disciples to do to others
whatsoever they would that others should do unto them ;
this, he says, is the law and the prophets. The celebrated
Doctor Newton, now Bishop of Bristol, in his Dissertations
on the Prophecies, having shewn how minutely and remark-
ably the predictioQs concerning the destruction of tyrants
were accomplished, adds this remark: (vol. I. p. 312:)
" But not only in this particular, but in the general, the Scrip-
tures, though often perverted to the purpose of tyranny, are
yet in their own nature calculated to promote the civil, as
well as the religious liberties of mankind. True religion, and
virtue, and liberty, are more nearly related, and more inti-
mately connected with each other than people commonly
consider. It is very true, as St. Paul saith, (2 Cor. iii. 17,)
that where the spirit of the Lord is, there is liberty : or, as
our (San'our expressed] it, [John viii. 31, 32,) If ye continue
in my word, then are ye my disciples indeed, and ye shall
know the truth, and the truth shall make you free." What
a pity is it, that this learned and ingenious Bishop and all
the rest of his Right Reverend brethren have not acted in
the legislative capacity according to those liberal, generous,
and noble sentiments !

I shall conclude with an extract from the polite, Catho-
lick, and elegant Doctor Balguy's dedication of his Sermons
to his Grace Doctor Thomas Herring, Archbishop of Can-
terbury, at the lime of the last rebellion in Scotland in favour
of the Pretender. " What follows, my Lord, not only seems
to claim a place, but cannot be omitted without a crime — I
mean that exemplary love of your Country, which burns so
nobly in your own breast, and has kindled or spread that gen-
erous passion all around you. You teach us by all fit means
and methods, not only to be good Clergymen, but good
Englishmen; not only to be wise and virtuous, but brave and
free. You set before us, in the strongest light, the charms
of liberty, and execrable evils of tyranny and bondage ;
inflaming our minds with an aident love for the one, and
an unconquerable aversion to the other. From your Grace
we learn bow to oppose the arts and intrigues of modem
Home with the spirit of ancient Romans; and cheerfully to
sacrifice our lives and fortunes to the preservation of our

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CORRESPONDENCE, PROCEEDINGS, fcc, MARCH, 1773.

152

liberties, and the defence of our Country." Oil that the
generous ardour which flames and shines in these lines
animated the breasts of all the Bishops and Clergymen in
England and America, and every Protestant heait in the
world! Philalethes.

these blessings, which his gentle reign has afforded, and
who are heartily disposed to give him the strongest marks

of it.

DECLARATION OF THE GRAND-JURY AND MAGISTRATES,
ETC., AT THE COURT OF QUARTER-SESSIONS, AT JOHNS-
TOWN, TRYON COUNTY, NEW-YORK, MARCH 16, 1775.

Whereas, the Supervisors of the several Districts in the
County of Tri/on, with the entire approbation of some of
the most respectable persons in that County for character
and property, did, so early as June last, by letters to the
gentlemen of the Netv-York Committee, decline entering
into the unhappy dispute between Great Britain and its
Colonies ; and therein assigned their reasons for so doing,
as according to their humble conceptions it did not appear
to tend to the violation of their civil or religious rights, but
merely regarded a single article of Commerce, which no
person was compelled to purchase, and which persons of
real virtue and resolution might easily have avoided or dis-
pensed with ; instead of which the inhabitants of one capi-
tal had committed an outrageous and unjustifiable act on
the private property of the India Company, and therefore
appeared to be alone affected by or really interested in the
measures then taken by the King and Parliament, in support
of what was and is deemed by many persons of good abili-
ties and integrity, its just right and prerogative, then neces-
sarily asserted for the preservation of order and due obedi-
ence to Government.

And whereas, these Supervisors, at a subsequent publick
meeting, called in their own vindication, had the satisfaction
to find that their conduct met with the entire approbation
of a large majority ; and their former proceedings were
signed as such, by those who had not before been consulted
upon it. And they have, moreover, since had the addi-
tional pleasure to observe, that notwithstanding all the arti-
fices used by violent and designing men to practise on the
easy credulity of the good people of this Country, their
conduct now stands justified, as well from the wise and tem-
perate Resolves of the true Representatives of this Colony,
as from the opinion of all good subjects and real lovers of
order and subordination. Therefore, at a time when so
many Districts, &.c, are manifesting in a publick manner
their loyal attachment to Government, in opposition to the
specious illusion and independency with which they had
been amused, the Grand-Jury of a County which had been
foremost in avowing its sentiments, could not pass over the
present opportunity that offers, of bearing testimony to the
prudent conduct and invariable resolutions of their County,
as a respectable part of which they declare in few and plain
words, but in the language of truth, that they abhorred, and
still do abhor, all measures tending, through partial repre-
sentation, to alienate the affections of the subjects from the
Crown; or by wresting the intent and meaning of a par-
ticular Act, to draw in the inhabitants of a wide and exten-
sive Territory to a dangerous and rebellious opposition to
the Parent State, when exerting itself to preserve that obe-
dience, without which no State can exist ; in which opin-
ion they are strengthened by the certain knowledge that
a large^body of them have of the superiour advantage of
the British Constitution, not only over those under which
so many of them were born, but with which they have been
in any wise acquainted; and that this excellent Constitu-
tion does appear to be in more danger from the intemperate
warmth and dangerous politicks of ignorant men, or crafty
Republicans, than from any measures which it appears to
be either the aim or interest of Government to enforce.

They do, therefore, resolve to bear faith and true alle-
giance to their lawful Sovereign King George the Third,
" and that in the true and plain sense of the words," as
they are or ought to be commonly understood, without the
prevarication which has often accompanied the same ex-
pressions from his warmest opponents. And as these have
been the sentiments of the most respectable people of this
County from the beginning, His Majesty's faithful Grand-
Jurors will, in any extremity, exert themselves in the sup-
port of Government, as men who, whilst they have a true
sense of generous liberty, are equally sensible of the just
claim he has to their wannest loyalty for the enjoyment of

Guy Johnson,

John Hutler,

John Johnson,

Daniel Cl&ua,

Jclles Fonda,

Peter Tenbroack,

Joseph Chew,

Frederick Young,

Adam Lnucks,

Rudolph Shomaker,

John Coilim,

Alexnud'.-r White, Sheriff.

Bryan L^ffjrty, Clerk.

I). Davis, ) .

Walter Hutler. \ ***"*•»

Signed by the Grand-Jury :

} Judges.

S Assistant Judges,

■ Justices.

Robert Wells, Foreman.
Robert Picken,
Abraham Garrason.
Henry Hare,
Nicholas Felling,
John Smith,
Andrew Wemple.
John Bauman,
Samuel Garden r.
John Fonda,
John Davis,
John Wolgimot,
Jacob Felling,
Isaac Collier,
James Scott,
Michael Stoller,
David Quackcnbush,
John Flint.

And a number of the principal Freeholders and Inhabi-
tants.

REV. ELEAZER WHEELOCK TO GOVERNOUR TRUMBULL.

Dartmouth College, March 16, 17? j.

Much Honoured Sir: 1 think that a concern for my
own and my Country's safety, may be esteemed sufficient
excuse for my acting so much out of character as I may
seem to do, in intermeddling in our present publick and
distressing affairs ; and relying upon your candour and
friendship to accept this for excuse, and to suppress what-
ever you may think may disserve me or that cause which
has long been, and still is, my object, I shall freely hint
something which I don't know but may be useful, and con-
sequently would be criminal to withhold.

You are not insensible, Sir, how calamitous and distress-
ing the case of these new and defenceless settlements will
likely be, if such a Northern Army of Savages, &c, as we
have been threatened with should be prevailed upon to
join European forces against these Colonies, and how
much of the strength of the Country below us must neces-
sarily be diverted from the sea-coast to defend and secure
us, if such an event should take place. For this, among
other reasons, I have this spring sent Mr. James Dean,
(who, among other excellent qualifications, is a great mas-
ter of the language of the Indians at Caghnawaga,) as a
Missionary, to itinerate for a short time among the tribes
in Canada, to keep the fire burning, and brighten the chain
(as they speak) of that friendship lately commenced be-
tween those tribes and this Seminary, which at present
seems to be high in the esteem of many of them, as their
conduct has fully testified, by receiving our Missionaries,
and treating them with respect ; sending their children
from time to time with cheerfulness to school, &.c. I have
ten of their sons now with me, eight of whom are descend-
ants from English captives, and one a son of the chief
Sachem at St. Francis, and another is brother to the youth
who was lately elected and crowned Sachem at Caghna-
waga, which young Sachem I expect also will come hither
to receive an education, as his father, who was here with
him, promised to send him to me as soon as certain rites,
customary among them to ratify and publish his election
to and in vesture in said office, should be performed. A
number who have been at school here, have returned on
one occasion and another, and made favourable reports of
the treatment they met with among the English, and an
honourable representation of the kind design of this school.
I expect a number more from those tribes soon, and likely
may have more than I can at present find means to support.
This connexion, Sir, 1 esteem, under God, our strongest
bulwark, if such invasion from the northward should be
made.

I would also further inform you that Mr. Bean was
brought up and naturalized among the Six Nations ; is a
great master of their language, and much esteemed as an
orator among them ; and his influence among them 1 ap-
prehend to be greater than any other man's, unless it be
their present Superintendent, and is esteemed by the best
judges to be a man of genius, learning, piety, and great
prudence. He was of opinion, (though he thought nothing
of any mention being made of it,) that if there should be
occasion, and he should be properly authorized for it, he
could influence all those Six Natioto to join these Colo-

153

CORRESPONDENCE, PROCEEDINGS, &tc, MARCH, 1775.

154

/lies against any invasion that should be made or attempted
against them, and 1 don't think lie did at all overrate his
ability or influence for that purpose. Mr. Dean designed
to return as soon as the Lake should be clear of ice, and the
streams and roads should favour it, which will likely be in
May.

If what I have hinted shall suggest the least advantage
to the cause, 1 am well repaid for writing; and if none at
all, yet you have a testimonial of the good wishes and de-
sires of him who is, with much esteem and respect, your
Honour's most obedient and most humble servant,

Eleazer Wheelock.

Governour Trumbull.

REMONSTRANCE PRESENTED BV THE SELECTMEN OF B1L-
LERICA TO HIS EXCELLENCY GENERAL GAGE, MARCH

16, 1775.
May it phase your Excellency :

We, the Selectmen of the Town of Billcrica, beg leave
to remonstrate to your Excellency that, on the 8th of this
instant, (March,) one Thomas Ditson, an inhabitant of
said Town of Billcrica, was tarred and feathered, and very
much abused, by a party of His Majesty's Forty-Seventh
Regiment, under the command of Lieutenant Colonel
Nesbit. As guardians for said Town, and from a regard
to the liberties and properties of its inhabitants, we cannot
but resent this procedure. Your Excellency must be sen-
sible that this act is a high infraction on that personal
security which every Englishman is entitled to, and with-
out which his boasted Constitution is but a name.

It is sufficiently unhappy for us, that we find Troops
quartered among us for the purpose of enforcing obedience
to Acts of Parliament of Great Britain, in the highest
sense iniquitous, cruel, and unjust. It is still more unhap-
py, if these Troops, instead of preserving the character
which British Troops once had, should pour in additional
insult, and be guilty of the most brutal outrages. We hope
your Excellency will take some steps for accommodating
this affair; for we assure you we cannot, consistent with
our duty, pass this matter over. We have been told by
your Excellency, that you never meant to disturb the in-
tercourse between the Town and the Country ; confiding
in this, we have passed and repassed in our usual manner.
We therefore hope your Excellency will make it evident,
by your conduct, that you are determined the intercourse
shall be preserved, and we be not buoyed up with promises
which, in the end, we unhappily find not to be depended
upon. Lieutenant Colonel Nesbit is an Officer under your
Excellency's command; of you, therefore, we demand
satisfaction for the insult committed by him ; we think it is
in your power. We beg your Excellency that the breach,
now too wide between Great Britain and this Province,
may not, by such brutality of the Troops, still be increased.
We assure you, Sir, it always has been, and still is, our
sentiment and prayer, that harmony may be restored, and
that we may not be drove to the last distress of Nations.

But may it please your Excellency, we must tell you
we are determined, if the innocent inhabitants of our
Country Towns (for we must think this man innocent in
this affair) must be interrupted by Soldiers in their lawful
intercourse with the Town of Boston, and treated with the
most brutish ferocity, we shall hereafter use a different
style from that of petition and complaint.

If the grand bulwarks of our Constitution are thus vio-
lently torn away, and the [lowers on earth prove unfriendly
to the cause of virtue, liberty, and humanity, we are still
happy. We can appeal to Him who judgeth righteously,
and to Him we cheerfully leave the event.

TO THE GENTLEMEN OF THE PROVINCIAL CONGRESS
OF VIRGINIA.

Williamsburg!), Virginia, March 17, 1775.

The addresses presented to their Lieutenant-Governour
by the Council and eleven polluted Members of the Assem-
biy of New- York, are, to every sensible thinking Ameri-
can, of infinitely a more alarming nature than the threats
of the Minister, the bruium fulmen of the King's speech,
(if that can properly be termed the King's speech which
the Minister has publickly avowed to be his own compo-

sition,*) or the echoing back this speech by a hireling ma-
jority of the Peers to their paymaster ; for as long as a
spirit of union subsists through this Continent, and as long
as the people at home have reason to think that this spirit
does subsist, these threats of the Minister (although vibra-
ted from the sounding-board of the Throne) and the echo-
ing it back by a hired chorus of Peers, must cast more
ridicule upon those by whom they are uttered, than give
terrour to those at whom they are levelled. But the sus-
picion or report of any defection amongst ourselves, is a
matter of most serious concern ; it behooves you, therefore,
gentlemen ; it behooves every Provincial Congress of the
Continent, to consider immediately of some effectual means
to prevent the mischievous consequences intended by these
abandoned and senseless men. Have we then formed a
General Association of our Provinces ? Have we pledged
ourselves to each other, to our posterity, to mankind ?
Have we made so great (temporary at least) sacrifices in
Commerce ? Have we solemnly engaged to make still
greater sacrifices in the glorious cause of Liberty ? Have
we confounded our enemies by a strain of virtue scarcely
credible in these modern ages, and with a spirit of harmony
that has surpassed the most sanguine expectation ? Have
we acted this noble part ? And shall the Council and
eleven contemptible Assemblymen of New- York attempt
to render all we have done abortive? Contemptible in all
respects — in numbers, in understanding, in knowledge, and
in principles ! For what other tendency can their addresses
to their Lieutenant-Governour possibly have but to coun-
teract the Resolves of the Congress, and render every thing
ye have done abortive ? These compositions of pusilla-
nimity, abject servility, and disgusting folly, amount simply
to this: That the utmost exertions of this tinted Conti-
nent (consisting of half a million of fighting men) can
have no effect ; that all the resistance (civil or military)
which they can make, must be in vain ; but that redress
alone must be sought, and can be expected from the mag-
nanimity of the British Nation, and the known goodness
and virtue of the King. Gracious Heaven ! grant us pa-
tience for to be told that we are to expect any thing from
the magnanimity of a people who, for twelve years suc-
cessively, have suffered themselves to be insulted, disgraced,
trampled upon, plundered, and butchered with impunity !
Or to be told that we are to look up to the goodness and
virtue of a King who, for the same number of years, has
been influenced to make incessant war upon the property,
rights, privileges, laws, honour, and integrity of his people,
in every part of the Empire, is enough to drive moderation
itself into violence.

But, continue these admirable Senators, what opens still
a surer prospect of redress is, that His Excellency Gover-
nour Tryon is now near the Throne. So it seems that
what the petitions, supplications, and remonstrances of the
whole Colonies; of the City of London ; of the great com-
mercial Towns of the leading Counties of England ; what
the voice of policy, reason, justice, and humanity, could
not effect, Colonel Tryon's being in England will accom-
plish. I know not whether this Colonel Tryon is a man
of so extraordinary talents, eloquence, and influence, as to
work these mighty miracles. I never understood that he
was ; but I am sure, if he has common sense, and any
manly feelings, he cannot help being somewhat disgusted
at this ill-timed, impertinent flattery, and that he must
conceive the greatest contempt for the parasites who, re-
gardless of the most important concerns to their Country
and humanity, and at the very crisis which is to determine
whether themselves and their posterity are to be freemen
or slaves, could step out of their way to offer up incense
to an unimportant individual. It may be said, this is all
declamation ; it may be so, but it is a declamation which
an honest zeal in the publick cause has forced me into. It
is now time, gentlemen, to devise some means of putting
a stop to this cancer before it spreads to any dangerous
degree. You, gentlemen of Virginia, and your neighbours
of Maryland have, perhaps, these means in your hands.

* The affected friends to Government often complain that His Ma.
jesty is not treated with the respect due to his character and station ;
but it appears to me, that a Minister's declaring in an open Senate that
the spoech from the Throne is not the King's, but is his own, is going
beyond disrespect. It is a most outrageous insult; it is representing
His Miijesty as a mere puppet, that squeaks just as he, the prompter,
breathes.

155

CORRESPONDENCE, PROCEEDINGS, fcc, MARCH,, IT75.

156

1 would propose, then, that alter a spirited manifesto, ex-

ng vour abhorrence of the Council* and prostitute

eleven of New- York, you should proceed to punish the

individuals of this wicked junto who are in your power.
Some of them have greet contracts for wheat and com in
these Provinces, from Norfolk, Alexandria, Cluster, Balti-
more, and other ports. They export prodigious quantities,
and enrich themselves considerably by this commerce. 1
would propose, that all Commerce with these assassins
should be laid immediately under an interdict; that not a
single Ship belonging to a counsellor of JSetv- York, (unless
he purges himself by oath from having consented to the
address,) or of one of the prostitute eleven, should be fur-
nished with a freight within the Capes Henry or Char/is;
and I have that opinion of the virtue of these Provinces
to think your injunctions would be efficacious. But here
I must beg leave to pause for an instant, and ask pardon of
the publick for my apparent presumption. An individual
who offers his thoughts to so respectable a body as a Con-
gress, delegated by the voice of a whole people, has cer-
tainly the air of presumption; it is in some measure attribu-
ting to himself superiour lights and abilities. But, on the
other hand, it is allowed that an individual has frequently
been fortunate enough to chalk out lines in which the most
sagacious and respectable bodies have not disdained to
walk.

If his proposals or hints be weak and absurd, they will
naturally be laughed at ; but if his intentions be honest,
the consciousness of having acted from motives of recti-
tude, and the love of his Country, will sufficiently com-
pensate for any ridicule which his scheme can incur. I
would therefore wish, that what I offer should rather be
understood as hints than advice. If these hints are attended
to, I shall reap no personal glory ; if they are despised, I
shall be no personal sufferer, as my name will probably
never be known ; for I have too great confidence in the
integrity of the printer to apprehend he will insinuate, even
the most remotely, his conjectures of the author. But to
proceed with my proposals, or hints, in which latter light
I am most desirous they should be considered : I could
wish to the above-mentioned manifesto was subjoined the
warmest letter of thanks to the virtuous ten of the Assem-
bly of New -York, for their endeavours to stem the profli-
gacy and wickedness of the majority, and for the noble
part they have acted as true Americans and excellent citi-
zens ; that another address, not less warm, sliould be pre-
sented to the gentlemen and people of New - York at
large, expressing your opinion of their honesty and publick
spirit, and lamenting their peculiar circumstances, which,
to those who are strangers to these circumstances, may in-
culcate a belief that they alone are exceptions to the charac-
ter of patriotism which the Americans are now indisputa-
bly entitled to. But above all, 1 could wish that it were
recommended to every Province of the Continent, more
particularly to their immediate neighbours of Pennsylvania,
the Jerseys, and Connecticut, not to suffer one of this de-
praved undecimvirate to set his foot on their territories, until
he invokes the forgiveness of his Country, and solemnly
engages that his future life shall be employed in making
compensation for his present conduct, of so obviously a
mischievous tendency.

P. S. The epithets prostitute, profligate, file, which I
have so freely made use of, may probably appear illiberal ;
but when we consider the mischievous consequences which
the conduct of these Council and Assemblymen of Nctv-
York are fraught with, it must be allowed that no language
can furnish opprobrious terms adequate to their delin-
quency. 1 am far indeed from apprehending that their
weight and influence are sufficient to shake the virtue of
the Continent, or occasion any defection. I do not be-
lieve that an individual (much less a set of men) will be
found who will be stupid and wicked enough to tn
their steps, the infamous *** of Philadelphia, and a
perverse drivelling knot of Quakers, who form his Senate
and Court, excepted. This worthy lately fixed his resi-
dence at New- York, with the professed intention of work-

* I cannot persuade myself that the ('■ mi this

infamous address ; there arc individuals amongst them of known, pro.
bity, sense, and patriotism, lint th,

to the obligation of purging themselves by oath of having hid any
share of the guilt, will rejoice in tho opportunity of acquitting them,
selves.

ing with some congenial spirits in that City towards the
ruin of the whole labrick which the Congress had been
raising. Indeed, it is most probable that he was the prin-
cipal compiler, if not the dictator, of these wretched ad-
dresses. The style and sentiments are certainly his ; the
same mist, fog, and darkness, which overcast all his pro-
ductions, envelop these addresses ; and the same narrow,
crooked politicks, low cunning, malignancy, and treachery,
discoverable through the mist, fog, and obscurity of all his
works and actions, betray themselves in these addresses.
It may now be asked, as I have represented the character,
weight, and credit of these eleven Assemblymen, of the
majority of the Council of New-York, and their I'liikukl-
phia coadjutor, or more properly dictator, in so despica-
ble a light, wherefore I should sound the alarm? What
mischiefs can possibly result from the utmost such men can
do? I answer, that although they can neither occasion
any defection, nor present the least prospect of success to
the enemies of America and liberty, they can do very con-
siderable mischief. They can procrastinate the issue ;
they can (and most probably will) prolong the inconveni-
ences which we must, more or less, feel during the contest.
There is nothing more certain than that the Ministry have
proceeded to the enormous lengths they have done upon
the presumption that the attacks upon Boston would not
have been taken up by the other Provinces, as the cause
of the whole.* There is, therefore, nothing more certain
than that the appearance of our firmness and unanimity
must soon have overthrown them, or forced them into a
total change of measures ; but the least appearance that
this firmness and unanimity no longer subsists, will en-
courage them to persist, and enable them to keep their
ground some time longer. These addresses of New- York
will give this appearance; so that whatever the gentlemen,
the merchants, the tradesmen, the mechanicks, and the
people of America at large suffer from the prolongation of
the contest ; whatever shall be added to the distresses and
burden of the people at home ; whatever shall farther im-
pair the commerce, strength, credit, and reputation of the
Mother Country, and bring her still nearer to total bank-
ruptcy and ruin ; whatever shall farther alienate the affec-
tions of the child from the parent, may justly be imputed
to this abject Council and eleven prostitute Assemblymen
of New- York. f

Boston, March 17, 1775.

The Massachusetts Gazette of February 23d, has given
the publick a long and laboured account of the terrible
mischiefs done by mobs in this Province, and the names
of the persons who are said to have suffered by tbeoi.| '
own 1 was not displeased at the particular mention of their
names, nor would I have had one left out of this shining
list : for the world ought to know, and posterity to remem-
ber the men who have taken so open and decisive a part
against their Country, at a time when it was nobly exert-
ing itself in one of the most important and severe contests
that ever fell to the share of any community. That they
have suffered, and will continue to suffer as long as any
remains of honour and conscience, and feelings for the es-
timation and love of their fellow-subjects reside with them,
1 firmly believe. This is all the revenge their much injur-
ed Country has hitherto taken of them.

That they live, some of them in affluence and splen-
dour, upon the revenue extorted from their much injured
Country, live to combine their heads and hearts for ensla-
ving America, is a striking proof of the moderation and

* That this is the principle they acted upon, is now put out of di*.

putc by the conduct of Lord North in the Mouse of Commons, and

■ iies directed to him.

t WUiiermtburgh, March 2 1, 1775. — Tho author of the piece addressed

to th 1", \ racial Congress of Virginia, having written in the heat of re.

aentment, on the first news of the conduct, of (he ( 'ouneil and Assembly

- i 'ark, and having been sinco assured, from tho best authority,

that the majority of the former are men of to good persona] charac-

to be incapable of doing injury intentionally to their Country ;

[8 leave publickly to retract the harsh terms lie has applied to

gentlemen, and to impute the unhappy step they have taken to

Mid seduction, not to any sinister, designs. One gentleman in

particular, who has large dealings in this Country, he has heard s>

great a character of, in the article of integrity and benevolence, as to

render it impossible that he should do any thing inimical to tho com.

muiiity, unless deceived into it by other men. The gentleman I alludo

to is Mr. Wallace.

t See Volume I, Folio 1260.

157

CORRESPONDENCE, PROCEEDINGS, fee., MARCH, V

158

lenity of that people in whose power it was, had it heen
equally their inclination, to have taken another kind of
revenge.

Tlie Act for shutting up the Port of Boston, which the
Tories themselves did not scruple at 6*st to call unjust and
cruel, and which the whole world regards with abhorrence
and indignation, was received by the inhabitants of that
Town in a manner that does them everlasting honour.
Neither transported by resentment, nor sunk with fear, nor
warped by a regard to their private interest, they have
now for near nine months endured all the relentless rigour
of that Act, and a total deprivation of the commerce upon
which they subsisted, rather than set an example to Ame-
rica of a lame and base resignation of our invaluable lights.
They calmly referred their cause to the whole Continent,
knowing it to be a common one ; they have accordingly
been applauded and supported by all the Colonies, and
are now waiting with a patience and fortitude that will
never be forgotten, the final issue of this reference.

With respect to the other Acts of Parliament that soon
ill lowed, (for vacating our Charter, in the important article
of appointing His Majesty's Council, a branch of our Ee-
gnldture, and for altering the mode of administering justice,)
it was impossible for the people of this Province to exhibit
lie same patience. They waited indeed till the moment
these Acts were to take effect, when they found themselves
reduced to this cruel alternative, either tamely to submit to
a deprivation of privileges which they held dearer than
life, or run the risk of an immediate opposition. Had they
bowed their necks to the yoke at that important moment,
it would have been riveted upon them forever; no resist-
ance could afterwards have been made, with any prospect
of success. The force of humble petitions and complaints
had been already tried for a succession of years, and the
men who had distinguished themselves in defence of our
inalienable rights would have felt all the resentment of
Government, in its new and tyrannical form; and juries,
pricked off by a Sheriff appointed and removable at the
pleasure of the Chair, instead of acquitting, might only
have given a sanction to the sufferings of the virtuous and
loyal, though accused subject.

In this extremity, which they liad been endeavouring
by every means in their power to avoid, they determined
upon a virtuous and brave opposition ; an opposition, all
circumstances considered, planned and conducted with
great prudence, and a lenity not to be exampled. The
freeholders of the several Counties, headed by men of the
first estimation and character among them, peaceably as-
sembled, and without doing injury to a single person, or
any man's property, calmly, though resolutely prohibited
the courts of justice from sitting and acting upon a plan
that must have ruined the liberties of their Country, and
destroyed every security for their property and lives. In
the same manner the people demanded of the Mandamus
Councilmen a resignation of an office totally inconsistent
with their Charter rights. Those who resigned were re-
stored to the good opinion of their fellow-citizens, and
have had nothing to fear. Others deluded their honest open-
hearted neighbours, who were ready to accept the slender-
est pledges of an intention not to destroy their civil rights.
When these men had gained the protection of the Army,
they insulted the credulity of their countrymen, and have
been incessant in their endeavours to bring military ven-
geance upon a people to whose tenderness and forbearance
they owe their own safety.

After the well known Powder expedition, the general
alarm consequent upon it, and the resolution of General
Cage to reside, with all his Troops, in Boston, great pains
were taken to induce all the friends of Government, that is,
all the enemies to the claims of America, to remove to the
same place, and claim the protection of the Army. Of
such a measure the Commissioners of the Customs had
before set an example, with no small success. According-
ly, some who might have remained at home in safely, and
at ease too, bad it not been for a consciousness that their
own views and inclinations were directly opposite to what
the whole community deemed its most important interests,
removed with their families to Boston. It is easy to see
with what views this measure was taken, and what conse-
quences were expected and wished to follow from it.
History does not afford an instance of a people so long

irritated by cruel and oppressive innovations in their Gov-
ernment, harassed by Fleets and Armies, and an unheard
of Port Bill, and obliged by the last necessity to oppose
the mere forms of law to preserve the spirit and blessings
of the British Constitution, who have conducted their op-
position with more caution and moderation, and with less
damage to those who have all along obstructed them in
every probable method they could devise for their safety.
This will appear more remarkable, when we consider, that
in such contests injuries from brethren, men born and bred
in the community, and under every obligation to protect
its rights, are more severely resented than from strangers,
and that many of these unnatural children of the Massa-
chusetts were known to be its most implacable enemies,
most ready to expose it by their speeches and writings to
the scorn and hatred of the world, and most eager to whet
the sword that might deluge it in blood.

In all this exertion for publick safety not a life nor a limb
has been taken away ; not a field has been laid waste, nor
a dwelling destroyed. Some indiscretions and violences
may have been committed by boys and the lowest of the
people, which cannot, in such circumstances as this com-
munity has unhappily been reduced to, be prevented or
properly punished. But are these to be compared with the
horrid scene exhibited a few years ago, in King-street uon
the fifth of March; with the bloody and dangerous affrays
with the soldiery since that time, notwithstanding the
utmost caution and exertion of the Commander-in Chief
to prevent them ? Are they to be compared with the loss
of property sustained by the Port Bill, and the distress and
anxious apprehensions brought upon a large community of
merchants, mechanieks, and yeomanry, by large Fleets and
Armies, in hostile array ? Or with the painful solicitude
with which all our bosoms have been agitated for those
rights, without which life itself would be a burden? And
yet all these evils have been brought upon their Country,
chiefly by the very men and their connexions who would
represent themselves in the world as suffering from it in
the most inhuman manner. For it is plain, even to de-
monstration, that had these men, and their head, now resi-
ding in England, concurred with their Country in a love
to its ancient Constitution, and its sacred rights; and had
they honestly and steadily resolved to accept no commis-
sions, nor to act from any under an innovated Government ;
had they done this at the beginning of our troubles, Ad-
ministration must of necessity have given up the design of
taxing America; and vacating our Charter; and all the dis-
tressing measures we have since endured for the purposes,
would have been peaceably avoided. Instead of this, the
Tories of this Province, under the auspices of Bernard and
Hutchinson, have been the most zealous promoters, if not
the original contrivers of this most injurious design, and the
methods taken to effect it.

It is astonishing to observe how alienated these men are
from the interest of the community in which they were born
and educated, and still live ; how inflexibly opposed to its
prevailing sentiments and principles: and with what scorn
and detestation they regard the united exertions of all Ame-
rica to defend itself from the attempts of a corrupt Admin-
istration to enslave it. In their account, the love of liberty
is sedition ; a claim of the rights of Englishmen, which are
no more than the rights of human nature, is treason ; and a
deliberate united determination to defend them, is rebellion.
If the people, the fountain of all civil honour and authori-
ng and of whom the first rulers are indeed servants; if the
people, I say, assemble and consult for the preservation of
their rights, these men immediately cry out in a rage, a mob!
and seem to wish, like Nero, that the whole Province had
but one neck, that they might divide it at a stroke. They
will plead in excuse for the Quebeck B]\\, which establishes
the Roman CatholicTc Religion and a French Government
in a British Colony, that it is tenderly accommodated
to the prejudices of the majority in that Colony ; but for
the prejudices and misapprehensions of their brethren in
the Protestant Colonies, allowing them to be in an errour,
they have no indulgence. It is humane and just that the
Canadians should claim and enjoy the tyranny of French
laws; but for the British inhabitants of the other Colonies
to urge their claim for British privileges, deserves confisca-
tion of estate and a halter.

Eet these men, if they please, go on to call the orderly

159

CORRESPONDENCE, PROCEEDINGS, fee, MARCH, 1775.

160

assembling of the freeholders of this Province in defence
of their unalienable rights, a mob. It is such a kind of
mob as has more than once preserved the British Consti-
tution from absolute ruin ; such a mob as rose in England,
in the reign of James the Second, consisting of the body of
the people, and the first characters in every literary and
honourable department ; a mob which the two Universities,
the Clergy, and even the Army itself did not hesitate to join,
and of which the great Churchill, afterwards John Duke of
Marlborough, was a principal ringleader. The difference
is, they opposed an arbitrary Monarch, while we are only
defending ourselves against the unconstitutional, despotick
power of our fellow-subjects — the Lords and Commons of
Great Britain. They took the field. We have not yet
been reduced, and I hope never shall, to that cruel neces-
sity. May American mobs be crowned with the same
success, and all posterity will revere them as the glorious
conservators of the rights of mankind. Lucius.

TO GOVERNOUR WENTWORTH.

Portsmouth, New. Hampshire, March 17, 1775.

Much deluded Sir: As I have no desire to detract
from the merit of your former actions, I readily allow, that
for many years your prudent conduct gained you the affec-
tions of almost all the people in this and the neighbouring
Colonies. No man in your station could be more hon-
oured and revered ; no person could exert himself more in
favour of the Province, or exceed you in promoting the
true interest of it. You did not prostitute commissions,
but endeavoured to add dignity to your Courts and honour
to your Militia. You caused harmony to subsist between
the several officers and soldiers throughout the Province ;
and doubtless felt that satisfaction yourself, which ever
results from the consciousness of having done well. You
well know what effects this produced ; and with pleasure
saw the zeal with which the people espoused and defended
your cause against the rage and malice of some who have
since become your bosom friends. But, Sir, let me ask you,
whether your late conduct has not been totally different ?
Have you not, without provocation, risen up against your
native Country, and done all in your power to enslave it?
Have you not used your utmost endeavours to enforce
those unconstitutional Acts, against which America has
made so violent an opposition ? Have you not arbitrarily
deprived the people from any share in their own Govern-
ment for near twelve months, and reduced your people to
the sad necessity of being governed by the Crown, or its
immediate servants ; or of being reduced to a state of
anarchy ? Have you not devised various methods to divide
and weaken the people, that their opposition to Parliamen-
tary measures might be less powerful? Have you not
issued your writs for the election of Representatives to
Towns where the number of inhabitants were inconsider-
able, when compared with others, which you chose to pass
by without the least notice? Have you not executed
your vengeance on all those who have stood forth to defend
the liberties of their Country, upon the members of the
late Congress; upon Civil Magistrates and Military Offi-
cers? You have. How then can you expect to rule in
the hearts of this people ? Can you conceive that they
take no notice of these things? Be not deceived. A few
fawning sycophants may endeavour to flatter you ; but
believe me, Sir, the affections of the people will never be
possessed by you in future. They well know that you
were the only person who endeavoured to procure work-
men to build barracks for the enemies of America ; they
are fully sensible, that the officers who have been foremost
in disciplining their men, and fitting them for action ; and
the men who have been engaged for the preservation of
the sacred rights of the people, who have warned the peo-
ple of their danger and exhorted each to shun it, have
been made the objects of your resentment, these men you
have dismissed from every civil and military employment.
But what is the consequence ? You already see that num-
bers of officers have resigned, nobly refusing to hold com-
missions when nothing can secure them but consenting to
the ruin of their Country ; and you will soon find that the
same spirit will discover itself to every part of the Govern-
ment ; and, of course, the militia will be in the same state
as that of the Massachusetts, Maryland, &.C.

I suppose that in excuse for this conduct, you will say
that you were expressly ordered to do this, and could by
no means avoid it, and secure your own standing ; which
perhaps may be the case. But then I must beg leave to
observe, that if those orders were from General Gage, and
you can by no means secure your standing but by obey-
ing them, you can claim but little merit for any acts you
may do in future; as General Gage, with his nod, can
direct the publick affairs of this and every other Colony
upon the Continent. If it proceeded from the mandates
of a Minister, then it is immaterial whether we are governed
by Lord North or any other person, as every thing is to
be regulated by his arbitrary will and pleasure.

I however incline to think that this is our deplorable
situation, that the person who presides over us has little
more to do than echo the voice of a despotick Minister,
and see that his mandates are obeyed ; 1 must therefore
pity the person appointed to preside, and the unhappy
people who are called to obey. No situation can be more
unhappy ; no slavery can be more complete. 1 think
myself acquainted with the natural goodness of your heart,
and will venture to affirm, that you would not (if left to your-
self) make such a wanton use of the prerogative, or deprive
the people for such a length of time from having a share
in their own Government. You well know that by the
same kind of conduct, the people may be deprived of the
inestimable right of representation, whenever and for what-
ever length of time an arbitrary Minister may think proper.
I shall conclude, by assuring you that I am far from being
your enemy ; and that I sincerely grieve for you, and a
number of others, who I am persuaded must, if they retain
their commissions, owe their future greatness to their Coun-
try's ruin. The Spectator.

to d • * * c * * » + *, ESQ.

New Jersey, March 18, 1775.

Dear Sir: You expect my sentiments on our publick
affairs, and, indeed, I can with freedom unburden my full
heart to one whom 1 esteem a true friend to George the
Third, our rightful Sovereign, to the Protestant succession
in his family, and to the real interest and greatest good of
the whole British Empire. And were such as truly the
character of every British subject as it is yours, and every
mind properly informed, all our unhappy differences would
soon be amicably settled, and every disagreeable commo-
tion and unfriendly passion subside. But a strong parly
too near the Throne, of a quite opposite character, are
opposing the general good of the Nation, to the great
danger of the King, the Protestant succession and interest,
and even the very existence of the Empire as such.

You need not be told, Sir, the many well known facts
on which this great danger is founded. Have not that
party invaded the rights of mankind in every part of the
Empire? Hath not that invasion stirred up a spirit of
jealousy, disaffection, and opposition to those hateful mea-
sures, more or less, in almost every City, County, and
Colony in the British Dominions ? For instance, the
noble spirit and manly opposition shewn by the citizens of
London, and the electors of Middlesex, when their right
of election was trodden under foot by that party, in the
case of Wilkes and Luttrell. And the many Petitions
and Remonstrances from every quarter, are so many instan-
ces of the like kind. Hence it appears that America is
not singular in her opposition. He must be ignorant of
the present state of our Nation, who is not sensible that
there are still millions in Great Britain and Ireland, who
are possessed of the same virtuous principles with us; and
who have shown, or soon must show themselves on the
side of Liberty, Protestantism, and the Constitution. Their
eyes are opening. They see more and more, this great
truth, that the ruin of the whole Empire is involved in
that of America. In short, such is the state of our pub-
lick affairs, that should the friends of despotism carry their
point a little higher, and begin with the sword to enforce
submission to tyranny, the whole Empire would fall into
the most dreadful convulsions, and shake to the very cen-
tre. Then, when these convulsions shall have subsided,
through the loss of much blood ; then (may Heaven pre-
vent it) the Atlantick Ocean, the Irish Sea, and the River
Tweed, will probably be what the English Channel is

161

CORRESPONDENCE, PROCEEDINGS, &c, MARCH, 1775.

162

now — a divider of Kingdoms, or the whole to be swallowed
up by Bourbon.

Nor can Stuart himself, whom America abhors, expect
more than a part of the Empire. For France and Spain,
now grown stronger, will, no doubt, at such a time, do all
that in them lies to divide and weaken the British Em-
pire ; when the Romish religion in Ireland, the love of
Stuart in Scotland, and the lust of gold in England, will
forward their design : for what but the love of money
could have calculated the present ministerial plan so exactly
to suit the meridian of Paris 1

Some may imagine that America may be subjugated
without any such ill consequences to the European part of
the British Dominions, and that the Americans, were the
case once to be put, sword in hand, would make but a
feeble resistance ; because, they say, many in hopes of
present profit or future favours, and many through fear of
punishment, will join the ministerial party, and thereby so
divide as to destroy, in a great measure, every mode of
opposition ; and that those who still continue their opposi-
tion will be so disheartened and unsupported as to fall an
easy prey to their enemies. On which let it be remarked,
that those who hold and endeavour to propagate such sla-
vish anti-American doctrines, betray in themselves either
ignorance, cowardice, or treachery ; which are directly
opposite to the true character of America in general.
The Americans are a sensible, learned, brave, loyal, free,
Protestant people. And though there are some who are
otherwise, yet they are a diminutive number, so com-
paratively few, that they never have, and it is to be hoped
they never will take the lead in our publick affairs. Those
who think England may be safe while in an open rupture
with America, do not duly consider their danger from their
internal and external enemies — the French, Spaniards,
Catholicks, Jacobites, and Tories ; of which it is hard to
say who are the greatest enemies of the British Constitu-
tion, and the Protestant interest. Be that as it may, it
has been openly declared in Parliament, that were the
banners of rebellion once spread in America, England
would be a ruined people. And many of the most sensi-
ble Britons have given it as their opinion, that Great Bri-
tain and her Colonies must stand or fall together. They
are therefore often calling upon us to stand firm and united
in our virtuous opposition ; adding, that thereby we shall
save ourselves and them. This is doubtless true ; and it
is allowed by friends and foes, that our danger principally,
if not wholly lies in our being divided among ourselves.
What punishment, therefore, is adequate to their guilt,
who use every vile artifice to deceive and divide us, and
thereby ruin the whole Empire ? And yet, these same trai-
torous vermin would cloak all their foul conduct under the
specious pretence of loyalty, and curse the honest Whigs
for traitors ; whose loyalty, in fact, is the very thing that
vexes them. Would it then be any wonder, if under
such provocations, the friends of the Constitution should,
in some instances, through their zeal for the publick good,
go beyond the line of duty.

The Americans are, of all His Majesty's subjects, the
greatest admirers of the British Constitution ; because
they esteem it the grand charter of their liberties, civil and
religious, which they love as they do their lives ; and their
loyalty to the present reigning family is as pre-eminent as
their love of liberty, and always has been ; because they
esteem that family as the proper guardians of the Constitu-
tion on which alone their throne is built, and under the pro-
tection of which we hold our liberties. In this view of things,
no wonder if we should esteem those traitors to the King
who are using their utmost efforts to undermine his throne
by destroying its basis — the Contitution. Hence loyalty
itself justifies us in opposing. such men and such measures.

This view justifies all the military preparations now
making in America. The stronger we are in these, the
safer is the Empire. We mean to act only on the defen-
sive. We ought by no means to strike the first blow, nor
to provoke those who would. This is certainly a great
point to carry against those who call us Rebels, and would
make us so if they could. I know you will strictly adhere
to the wise directions of our loyal Congress, according to
which, while you encourage the doubtful and instruct the
ignorant, you will punish the guilty, and thereby greatly
oblige your humble friend, Essex.

Fourth Series. — Vol. ii. 1

DR. FRANKLIN TO ARTHUR LEE.

Craven.Street, London, March 19, 1775.

Dear Sir : I leave directions with Mrs. Stephenson to
deliver you all the Massachusetts papers, when you please
to call for them. I am sorry that the hurry of preparing
for my voyage, and the many hinderances 1 have met with,
prevented my meeting with you and Mr. Bollan and con-
versing a little more on our affairs before my departure. I
wish to both of you health and happiness, and shall be glad
to hear from you by every opportunity.

I shall let you know how I find things in America. I
may possibly return again in the autumn, but you will, if
you think fit, continue henceforth the Agent for Massachu-
setts, an office which I cannot again undertake. I wish
you all happiness, and am ever yours, affectionately,

B. Franklin.

Charlestown, South-Carolina, March 20, 1775.

Last Tuesday, March 14th, Mr. Robert Smyth, Mer-
chant, Master Smyth, his son, and Master Ward, son of
John Ward, Esquire, returned here from London, in the
Snow Proteus, Captain Papley, having touched at Fal-
mouth and St. Christopher's by the way.

The said vessel having on board, (besides seven cases
of merchandise, said to be Globes and Mathematical In-
struments, consigned to Mr. Robert Wells, one hogshead,
one puncheon, seven casks, thirteen cases, five crates, and
one bottle, said to contain Drugs and Medicines, consigned
to Mr. Edward Gunter,) two puncheons, one box, one
tierce, forty bundles, nine cases, and seven hampers, said
to contain Household Furniture, and two Horses, belonging
to Mr. Smyth, all which he declared were brought out by
him on the supposition that it was not meant by the Con-
tinental Association to prohibit the importation of such
articles, and had been in use in his family in England.
The Committee of Observation requested the sense of the
General Committee respecting said Horses and Furniture.
This matter accordingly came under the consideration of
the General Committee on Wednesday evening, thirty-
three members present ; when, after a long debate whe-
ther the landing the said Horses and Furniture might not
be construed a violation of the Association, there appeared
to be an equal number for and against that opinion. And
the question being put, whether Mr. Smyth's Horses, un-
der the circumstances they had been represented, might be
landed, it was carried in the affirmative by the Chairman's
casting vote. It was at the same time resolved, without a
division upon the question, that such part of Mr. Smyth's
Furniture as, upon inspection by the Committee of Obser-
vation, should appear to them to have been in use in his
family, (but no other,) might also be landed.

The next morning a great number of the inhabitants ap-
peared extremely uneasy, lest, from the admission of the
Horses, it should be suggested that there was an inclination
in this Colony to depart from the Association ; they feared
that the conduct of the people, which had always been
consistent, and who continued remarkably strict in their
adherence to the Resolves and recommendations of the
Congress, might, in this instance, be misrepresented abroad.
Their zeal for the reputation of their Country threw them
into great agitation ; none meant the least reflection on the
conduct of their Committee, but all wished that the Horses
might not be landed ; yet they were then at a loss what
measure might be most proper to pursue. On Friday morn-
ing, however, a Petition was agreed on, and, after having
two hundred and fifty-six names subscribed thereto, pre-
sented to the Chairman of the General Committee, in the
following words :

" We, a number of the inhabitants of Charlestoivn, con-
ceive that our liberties at this time depend on our unanimi-
ty and confidence in our Committee, who, we doubt not, in
all things will act according to the best of their judgment
for the publick good. But your Petitioners are informed
that, by a vote carried by a very small majority, divers
Horses and Furniture are permitted to be landed, which
many persons, who have the liberty of America much at
heart, think an infringement of the Association entered into
by the General Congress. In order, therefore, to quiet
the minds of the people, wc pray that there may be a re-
consideration of the said matter in a full Committee."

1

163

CORRESPONDENCE, PROCEEDINGS, &c, MARCH, 1775.

164

In consequence of this Petition, the said Committee was
summoned to meet that evening; but no more than forty-
two members then attending, it was thought advisable to
adjourn till Monday morning, nine o'clock, in order that,
if it should be thought necessary to reconsider the matter,
it might be done at a very full meeting. Accordingly this
morning a very full Committee met, not less than seventy
members being present, when the above Petition was taken
into consideration ; the Resolves of Wednesday, respecting
the Horses, rescinded, by a majority of one vote ; and a
Resolution entered into, that they should be sent back,
with the Merchandise and Furniture (if any) that should
appear not to have been in use. A general satisfaction
was expressed upon this occasion, and the quiet of the
community seems to be perfectly restored.*

Instructions drawn up for the Delegates to the Convention
at Richmond, the 20th of March, from a certain
County in Virginia.

Gentlemen : Although we are fully assured that the
worthy gentlemen who lately represented us in General
Congress were actuated by motives not to be reprehended,
and in their proceedings against the designs of Parliament,
have recommended to us a mode of opposition, in their

* In Sonth.Carolina the Association was punctually complied with ;
no goods from England being allowed to be landed, nor were any other
importations, contrary to the provisions of that instrument, permitted.
About this time the Ship Charming Sally had arrived from Bristol, in
England, witli throe thousand eight hundred and forty-four bushels of
Salt, thirty-five chaldrons of Coal, and forty thousand five hundred
Tiles; all of which were (25th February, 1775,) thrown into Hog.
Island Creek, by the proprietors or their agents, rather than they would
lie at the charge and trouble of sending them back to England, in pur-
suance of the tenth article of the Association. So, also, a cargo of near
three hundred Slaves was sent out of the Colony by the consignee, as
being interdicted by the second article of the Association. In short, the
publick regulations were duly and patriotically observed. A case, how-
ever, arose, which called forth the spirit of the people, and evinced
thoir determination to support and enforce the Association, in all its
various provisions.

A respectable family had been residing in England for some time,
and were returning home ; in which removal it was expected the house-
hold furniture and horses, which had been in use, would also be brought
over. Some attempts had therefore been made to declare the importa-
tion of household furniture and horses, that had been in use, and might
be imported from England, not to be within the meaning of the tenth
article of the Association, as relating to goods or merchandise, but
they had been unsuccessful. At length the horses and furniture ar-
riving from thence, application was made on the 15th day of March
for their being landed ; and after a long contest in a thin General Com-
mittee of only thirty-three members, the motion was carried by the
voice of the Chairman. This permission occasioned a ferment among
the citizens, and they almost generally exclaimed " The Association
was broken," and that the horses at least should not be landed. Some
hundreds of the inhabitants assembled, and many active and influential
members of the Committee endeavoured to satisfy them respecting the
vote of permission which had passed, but in vain. On the contrary,
they continued in their opposition, and supported it with a representa-
tion signed by a considerable number of persons, and which was pre-
sented to the Chairman of the General Committee, desiring tho Com-
mittee would re-consider their late vote. In pursuance of this request
the Committee was convened on the 17th day of March, 1775, and the
room of meeting was crowded with people. Edward Rvtledge, who
had been one of the most active in the affair, now commenced censur-
ing the people, in thus questioning the vote whicli had been given, but
he was received with a clamour. The General Committee now began
to think their authority insulted. Some members accordingly depart-
ed in anger, others became vociferous in rage, and for a few minutes
all was in confusion. At length tranquillity prevailed ; the considera-
tion of the subject was postponed until a more full Committee could be
procured ; and the third day after was appointed for a final decision.
To procure the presence of all the members of the Committee within
reach, was now an object of importance, and great exertions for that
purpose were made by both parties.

When the appointed time arrived the General Committee convened,
and great was the press of people who attended; for the Town was in
universal commotion, and application had even been privately made to
the incorporated armed companies to cover the landing of the horses.
Some individuals of the companies agreed to do so, but the majority of
them refused ; and the people declared if the horses were landed, they
would put them to death. Under these unpleasant aspects the debates
began, when Mr. Gadsden moved to reverse the former determination,
relative to landing the horses. He urged the vote had been carried in
a thin Committee ; that it was contrary to the Association ; that it
would alarm the Northern Colonies in a most lively manner ; and that
our people were highly dissatisfied with it. And he contended this
last of itself was a cogent reason to reverse such a determination. Tho
K it, Mr. Tennent next addressed the Committee to the same purpose ;
as did Mr. Rugely, who, in addition, urged that, as tho horses paid a
duty, they ought not to be landed. Theso gentlemen, in speaking,
spoke immediately after each other. On tho other side Edward Rut-
ledge, Rawlins Lowndes, Thomas Bee, and Thomas Lynch, contended
that the vote of the General Committee ought not to be reversed, but
on the contrary ought to be maintained, otherwise the Committee
would fall into contempt. That the opinions of the General Commit-
tee, now sitting, ought not to be influencad by the petition, as the
spirit and not the letter of the Association ought to bo attended to.

opinions, the most efficacious and salutary : Nevertheless,
us we are entitled to determine upon the propriety of any
measures whereby we are bound, and upon the success of
which our political and civil interests depend ; we must, after
expressing all deference and respect for our honest coun-
trymen, who have by their councils and advice stood forth
in our cause, beg leave to dissent from them in such points
as we think exceptionable. Wc desire, gentlemen, invio-
lably to adhere to the civil obligation binding us to our Sov-
ereign, and by no means to assent to any measures that
may ultimately affect the faith we owe to our King, or the
duty we owe to his people. We desire you neither to
censure or patronise the proceedings of those people who
destroyed the property of the East-India Company, in the
Port of Boston ; this we deem a breach of civil order, and
an invasion of private right. But as we know not what
circumstances might induce, or cause impel the perpe-
tration of that act, it is too delicate a case, too foreign for
us to meddle with. The grand principles for which we
contend are, the rights of legislation and taxation ; of legis-
lation respecting our internal police, and of taxation inde-
pendent of every power on earth. These inestimable
privileges we will maintain at the risk of our lives and for-
tunes ; but we will justify no proceedings inconsistent with
our duty to our King, repugnant to the rights of individuals,

That temporizing did not become honest men and statesmen, who
ought to declare their opinions according to their consciences. That
if we adhered to the letter of the Association, no arms or ammunition
could be received from England; and when the letter of the law bore
hard against an individual, Lord Chnf Justice Hale allowed him to
escape by any subterfuge ; and that it was never the idea of Congress
to exclude such articles.

William Henry Drayton was the only person who rose in reply. He
contended that because an errour had been committed, it was no reason
it should be continued ; that the people thought an errour had been
committed, and it was our duty to satisfy our constituents, as we were
only servants of the publick. That such conduct was evinced by every
day's practice in Parliament, therefore it could not be disgraceful to
reverse the vote of the Committee, as on such occasions Parliament
had often done so. That our present application to the King was for
such a purpose ; and if we defended ourselves on the principle of falling
into contempt, might it not be as reasonable for the King to retort the
same argument upon us ? That it was always safer to follow the letter
than to explore the spirit of a law. That in the case of the St. John's
people of Georgia, we preferred the letter to the spirit of the Associa-
tion, as was evident by our refusal and advice ; then why not adhere
to the letter of that instrument now ? That temporizing ever was
practised in publick affairs by the most honest men, witness Cato, of
Utica, in Ctesar's election to the Consulship ; and by the best states,
men, witness Cicero's letter to Atticus, relating to a good pilot's shift-
ing his helm, if he could not reach his port by a direct course ; witness
the conduct of the Long Parliament, and all history in general. That
to discharge a statesman's conscience was to aim at the publick good,
and not be pertinacious of his own opinion. That even if there had
been an article in the Association, that we should not receive arms and
ammunition from England, the publick necessity would cause it to be
a dead letter, as self-preservation was the first obligation, and fas est,
ab hoste doceri. Ho farther contended that Lord Hale's principle was
just, when applied to an individual, in the event of whose case the pub-
lick could not be interested; but it never could be applicable to such a
case as the present, whero the conveniency of the individual and the na-
tional interests of the publick were in direct opposition ; and that he could
not hold tho understanding of the late General Congress in so trivial a
light, as to entertain a thought of looking for the sense in direct oppo-
sition to the words of one of the principal articles of tho Association.

He farther said the present case stood divided into two points — the
spirit of the regulations, and the union of the people; and that the
latter was infinitely of the greater consequence. That the letter of
the Association was clearly in support of the motion, and in the pre-
sent situation of affairs the spirit of that instrument was equally in
favour of it. That union was the rock upon which the American po-
litical edifice was founded ; and whatever hazards its existence, is to
militate against the ground-work of the Association. Hence it was
evident, landing the horses hazarded our union, for the people were in
commotion against it. Upon all publick and general questions, the
people ever are in the right ; so said Lord Mansfield, in the House of
Commons ; and the people now think the late vote was wrong. Can
it bo prudent to oppose our constituents ? In civil commotions the
common people ever struck those blows which were of any effect. If
you retract, there can be no just cause of fearing contempt ; as it is
not reasonable those should contemn you who have ever honoured you,
and whose opinions would be in favour of your retraction. The Roman
Senate were a wise body ; they often yielded to the people ; but nobo-
dy supposed thair concessions brought them into contempt, and they
continued illustrious during the existence of the Commonwealth. Let
us imitate, on this occasion, so great, so Buocessful an example, and
endeavour, by the same means, to call forth the affections of our fellow,
citizens, and to bind them to us by the same ties.

John Rutledge now rose and endeavoured to t ike off the force of the
arguments which had been urged, but failing in his endeavours, he
only added to the many instances he had previously given of his ability
as a good speaker. The debate was then closed ; and the question
being put, was carried in the affirmative. It is worthy of remark, that
this is the first instance of a point of importance and controversy being
carried against those, by whose opinions the people had been long gov-
erned. And such was the powerful effct of habit, that this important
question was carried only by a majority of one voice — thirty.five
against thirty-four. — Drayton.

165

CORRESPONDENCE, PROCEEDINGS, &c., MARCH, 1775.

166

or the laws of society. We are greatly alarmed at the
resolution to suspend our commercial intercourse with
Great Britain. To stop her imports must be fatal to her ;
but to retain from her our exports, by which alone we can
be enabled to discharge the heavy debt we owe her, by
which the balance of trade might in a few years prepon-
derate in our favour, by which alone we can be kept in
peace, or armed for war, is a measure not to be justified
by the laws of morality or the rights of policy. We, there-
fore, especially require of you to procure this resolution of
the Congress to be rescinded. It is a duty you owe us,
to obtain a proper representation of the Tobacco planters
in this Colony, for we must deem a license to any of the
inhabitants in America to export Wheat, Rice, or any other
commodity a partial exemption in their favour, and a sacri-
fice of our interest to a general cause, which should only
be affected in an equal degree with all other object of com-
mercial intercourse. You need not interfere with the
Quebeck Bill ; a law respecting that conquered Country is
without our policy, and beyond our ideas. We hear daily
of personal insults, and invasions upon private property,
from those little Democracies erected in every precinct
through this extensive Continent. Reduce these men, we
pray you, to the rank of citizens, and let them lord it over
their fellows no longer !

Pursue, gentlemen, with prudence and fortitude the cause
of your Country, and you may always depend upon the
protection of your constituents.

VIRGINIA CONVENTION.

At a Convention of Delegates for the Counties and Cor-
porations in the Colony of Virginia, at the Town of Rich-
mond, in the County of Henrico, on Monday, the 20th of
March, 1775. Present :

City of Willi amsburgh. — The Honourable PeytonRan-
dolph, Esquire.

Accomack County. — Isaac Smith, Esquire.

Albemarle. — Thomas Jefferson and John Walker, Es-
quires.

Amelia. — John Tabb and John Winn, Esquires.

Amherst. — William Cabell, Junior, and Joseph Cabell,
Esquires.

Augusta. — Thomas Lewis, Samuel McDowell, and John
Harvie, Esquires.

Bedford. — John Talbot and Charles Lynch, Esquires.

Botetourt. — Andrew Lewis and John Bowyer, Esquires.

Brunswick. — Frederick Maclin and Henry Tazewell,
Esquires.

Buckingham. — John Nicholas and Anthony Winston, Es-
quires.

Berkeley. — Robert Rutherford and Adam Stephen, Es-
quires.

Caroline. — Edmund Pendleton and James Taylor, Esq'rs.

Charles City. — Benjamin Harrison and William Acrill ,
Esquires.

Charlotte. — Paul Carrington and Isaac Read, Esquires.

Chesterfield. — Archibald Caryatid Benjamin Watkins,
Esquires.

Culpepper. — Henry Pendleton and Henry Field, Junior,
Esquires.

Cumberland. — William Fleming and John Mayo, Es-
quires.

Dinwiddie. — John Bannister and William Watkins, Es-
quires.

Dunmore. — Jonathan Clarke, Esquire, and Peter Muhlen-
burg, Clerk.

Elizabeth City. — Henry King and Wolrich Westwood,
Esquires.

Essex. — James Edmondson and Meriwether Smith, Es-
quires.

Fairfax. — George Washington and Charles Broadwater,
Esquires.

Fauqjjier. — Thomas Marshall and James Scott, Esquires.

Frederick. — lsaae Zone, Esquire, and Charles Minn
Thruston, Clerk.

Fincastle. — William Christian, Esquire.

Gloucester. — Thomas Whiting and Lewis Burwell, Es-
quires.

Goochland. — John Woodson and Thomas Mann Ran-
dolph, Esquires.

Halifax. — Nathaniel Terry and Micajah Watkins, Es-
quires.

Hampshire. — James Mercer, Esquire.

Hanover. — Patrick Henry, Junior, and John Syme, Es-
quires.

Henrico. — Richard Adams and Samuel Du-Val, Es-
quires.

James City. — Robert C. Nicholas and William Norvell,
Esquires.

Isle of Wight. — John S. Wills and Josiah Parker, Es-
quires.

King George. — Joseph Jones and William Fitzhugh, Es-
quires.

King and Queen. — George Brooke and George Lyne,
Esquires.

King William. — Carter Braxton, and William Aylett,
Esquires.

Lancaster. — James Selden and Charles Carter, Esquires.

Loudoun. — Francis Peyton and Josiah Clapham, Es-
quires.

Louisa. — Thomas Johnson and Thomas Walker, Esquires.

Lunenburgh. — Richard Claiborne and David Garland,
Esquires.

Middlesex. — Edmund Berkeley, Esquire.

Mecklenburgh. — Robert Burton and Bennett Goode,
Esquires.

Nansemond. — Lemuel Riddick and Willis Riddick, Es-
quires.

New-Kent. — Burwell Bassett and Bartholomew Dan-
dridge, Esquires.

Norfolk County. — Thomas Newton, Junior, and James
Holt, Esquires.

Northampton. — John Burton, Esquire.

Northumberland. — Rodham Kenncr and Thomas Jones,
Esquires.

Orange. — Thomas Barbour and James Taylor, Esquires.

Pittsylvania. — Peter Perkins and Benjamin Lankford,
Esquires.

Prince Edward. — Robert Lawson and John Nash, Es-
quires.

Prince George. — Richard Bland and Peter Poythress,
Esquires.

Princess Anne. — William Robinson and Christopher
Wright, Esquires.

Prince William. — Henry Lee and Thomas Blackburn,
Esquires.

Richmond. — Robert Wormeley Carter and Francis Light-
foot Lee, Esquires.

Southampton. — Edwin Gray and Henry Taylor, Esquires.

Spottsylvania. — George Stubblefield and Mann Page,
Junior, Esquires.

Stafford. — John Alexander and Charles Carter, Es-
quires.

Surry. — Allen Cocke and Nicholas Faulcon, Junior, Es-
quires.

Sussex. — David Mason and Henry Gee, Esquires.

Warwick. — William Langhorne, Esquire.

Westmoreland. — Richard Henry Lee and Richard Lee,
Esquires.

York. — Dudley Digges and Thomas Nelson, Junior, Es-
quires.

Jamestown. — Champion Travis, Esquire.

Norfolk Borough. — Joseph Hutchings, Esquire.

The Honourable Peyton Randolph, Esquire, was unani-
mously elected President of this Convention, and Mr. John

Tazewell, Clerk thereof.
The President then recommended it to the Convention

to proceed in the deliberation and discussion of the several

important matters which should come before them, with

that prudence, decency, and order which had distinguished

their conduct on all former occasions ; and laid before the

Convention the proceedings of the Continental Congress,

together with a letter from Benjamin Franklin, William

Bollan, and Arthur Lee, Esquires, advising that the Pe-
tition to His Majesty had been presented and graciously

received.

Ordered, That the consideration of the Proceedings of

the Continental Congress be postponed till to-morrow.
Resolved, That the Reverend Mr. Selden be desired to

read prayers to the Convention, every morning, at nine

o'clock.

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CORRESPONDENCE, PROCEEDINGS, &c, MARCH, 1775.

1G8

Resolved, That this Convention will observe, in their
debates, the same rules and orders as are established in the
House of Burgesses in this Colony.

Adjourned till to-morrow 10 o'clock.

Tuesluy, March 21, 1775.

A Letter from the Inhabitants of that part of Augusta
County which lies to the westward of the Alleghany Moun-
tain, desiring that John Xcvill and John llarvie, Esquires,
may be admitted into this Convention as their Delegates,
being read ; upon a motion,

Resolved, That the said John Xcvill and John llarvie
be admitted as Delegates for the County of Augusta.

The Convention then took into their consideration the
Proceedings of the Continental Congress, agreeably to the
order of yesterday ; but not having time to go through the
same, postponed the further consideration thereof till to-
morrow.

Adjourned till to-morrow 10 o'clock.

Wednesday, March 22, 1775.

The Convention then, pursuant to the order of yester-
day, resumed the consideration of the Proceedings of the
Continental Congress ; and, after the maturest deliberation,
came to the following Resolutions :

Resolved unanimously. That this Convention doth entire-
ly and cordially approve the Proceedings and Resolutions of
the American Continental Congress, and that they consider
this whole Continent as under the highest obligations to that
very respectable body, for the wisdom of their counsels,
and their unremitted endeavours to maintain and preserve
inviolate the just rights and liberties of His Majesty's duti-
ful and loyal subjects in America.

Resolved unanimously, That the warmest thanks of this
Convention, and all the inhabitants of this Colony, whom
they represent, are particularly due, and that this just
tribute of applause be presented to the Honourable Peyton
Randolph, Esquire, Richard Henry Lee, George Wash-
ington, Patrick Henry, Junior, Richard Bland, Benja-
min Harrison, and Edmund Pendleton, Esquires, the
worthy Delegates deputed by a former Convention to re-
present this Colony in General Congress, for their cheerful
undertaking, and faithful discharge of the very important
trust reposed in them.

Adjourned till to-morrow 10 o'clock.

Thursday, March 23, 1775.

A copy of the Petition and Memorial of the Assembly
of Jamaica to the King's most Excellent Majesty, was laid
before the Convention, and being read, and maturely con-
sidered :

Resolved, That the unfeigned thanks, and most grateful
acknowledgments of this Convention be presented to that
very respectable Assembly, for the exceeding generous and
affectionate part they have so nobly taken in the unhappy
contest between Great Britain and her Colonies, and for
their truly patriotick endeavours to fix the just claims of
the Colonists upon the most permanent constitutional prin-
ciples.

That the Assembly be assured, that it is the most ardent
wish of this Colony (and we are persuaded of the whole
Continent of North America) to see a speedy return of
those halcyon days when we lived a free and happy people.

Resolved, That the President be desired to transmit
these Resolutions to the Speaker of the Jamaica Assembly,
by the earliest opportunity.

Resolved, That a well regulated Militia, composed of
Gentlemen and Yeomen, is the natural strength, and only
security of a free Government; that such a Militia in this
Colony would for ever render it unnecessary for the Mother
Country to keep among us, for the purpose of our defence,
any Standing Army of mercenary forces, always subver-
sive of the quiet, and dangerous to the liberties of the peo-
ple, and would obviate the pretext of taxing us for their
support.

That the establishment of such a Militia is at this time
peculiarly necessary, by the state of our laws for the protec-
tion and defence of the Country, some of which have al-
ready expired, and others will shortly do so; and that the
known remissness of Government, in calling us together in

a legislative capacity, renders it too insecure, in this time
of danger and distress, to rely, that opportunity will be
given of renewing them in General Assembly, or making
any provision to secure our inestimable rights and liberties
from those farther violations with which they are threat-
ened.

Resolved therefore, That this Colony be immediately
put into a posture of defence ; and that Patrick Henry,
Richard Henry Lee, Robert Carter Nicholas, Benjamin
Harrison, Lemuel Riddick, George Washington, Adam
Stephen, Andrew Leivis. William Christian, Edmund
Pendleton, Thomas Jefferson, and Isaac Zone, Esquires,
be a Committee to prepare a plan for the embodying, arm-
ing, and disciplining such a number of men as, may be suf-
ficient for that purpose.

Adjourned till to-morrow 10 o'clock.

Friday, Mirch 24,1":,.

The Committee appointed for that purpose reported a
plan for embodying, arming, and disciplining the Militia of
this Colony ; the consideration whereof is postponed till to-
morrow.

Certain paragraphs in the publick Papers, said to be
votes of the House of Representatives of Xew- York, being
read,

The Convention, taking into their consideration that the
said Province of Xeic- York did, by their Delegates in Gen-
eral Congress, solemnly accede to the compact of Associa-
tion there formed for the preservation of American rights,
that a defection from such their compact would be a perfidy
too atrocious to be charged on a sister Colony but on the
most authentick information, and also doubting whether, from
some radical defect in the Constitution of that Government,
the sense of their House of Representatives, on questions
of this nature, should be considered as the sense of the
people in general, came to the following Resolutions:

Resolved, That it be an instruction to the Committee of
Correspondence for this Colony, that they procure authen-
tick information from the Committee of Correspondence in
the Province of Neiv-York, or otherwise, whether their
House of Representatives, by any vote or votes whatsoever,
have deserted the union with the other American Colonies,
formed in General Congress, for the preservation of their
just rights ; whether the other Colonies are to consider such
vote or votes as declaring truly the sense of the people of
their Province in general, and as forming a rule for their
future conduct ; and, if they are not to be so considered,
that then they inform us, by their names and other suffi-
cient descriptions, of the individuals who may have concur-
red in such vote or votes ; and that the said Committee lay
such their information before the next Convention, or As-
sembly.

Resolved unanimously, That the Committees of the sev-
eral Counties and Corporations in this Colony do exert
themselves in procuring and continuing Contributions, for
supplying the necessities and alleviating the distresses of
our brave and worthy fellow-subjects of Boston, now suf-
fering in the common cause of American freedom, in such
manner, and so long as their occasions may require.

Resolved unanimously, In compliance with the recom-
mendation of the late Continental Congress, that Delegates
ought to be appointed to represent this Colony at the ap-
proaching Congress, to be held in the City of Philadelphia,
the 10th day of May next.

Resolved, That the delegation from this Colony do con-
sist of seven Members, and that they be chosen by ballot.

Adjourned till to-morrow, 10 o'clock.

Saturday, March 25, 1775.

Resolved, As the opinion of this Convention, that, on
account of the unhappy disputes between Great Britain
and the Colonies, and the unsettled state of this Country,
the lawyers, suitors, and witnesses ought not to attend the
prosecution or defence of civil suits at the next General
Court; and it is recommended to the several Courts of Jus-
tice not to proceed to the hearing or determination of suits
on their dockets, except attachments; nor to give judg-
ments but in the case of Sheriffs or other collectors for Mo-
ney or Tobacco received by them ; in other cases, where
such judgment shall be voluntarily confessed, or upon inch

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CORRESPONDENCE, PROCEEDINGS, &c, MARCH, 1775.

170

amicable proceedings as may become necessary for the set-
tlement, division, or distribution of estates. And, during
this suspension of the administration of justice, it is ear-
nestly recommended to the people to observe a peaceable
and orderly behaviour; to all creditors to be as indulgent
to their debtors as may be, and to all debtors to pay as far
as they are able ; and where differences may arise which
cannot be adjusted between the parties, that they refer the
decision thereof to judicious neighbours, and abide by their
determination.

The Convention then took into their consideration, ac-
cording to the order of yesterday, the plan for embodying,
arming, and disciplining the Militia ; which, being read,
and amended, was unanimously agreed to, as follows:

The Committee propose that it be strongly recommend-
ed to the Colony, diligently to put in execution the Militia
Law passed in the year 1738, entitled "An Act for the
better regulating of the Militia," which has become in force
by the expiration of all subsequent Militia Laws.

Tiie Committee are further of opinion that, as from the
expiration of the above-mentioned latter laws, and various
other causes, the legal and necessary disciplining the Mili-
tia has been much neglected, and a proper provision of
Aims and Ammunition has not been made, to the evident
danger of the community in case of invasion or insurrec-
tion, it be recommended to the inhabitants of the several
Counties of this Colony that they form one or more volun-
teer Companies of Infantry and Troops of Horse, in each
County, and to be in constant training and readiness to act
on any emergency.

That it be recommended, particularly to the Counties of
Brunswick, Dinividdic, Chesterfield, Henrico, Hanover,
Spottsylvania, King George, and Stafford, and to all
Counties below these, that out of such, their volunteers,
they form each of them one or more Troops of Horse ; and
to all the Counties above these, it is recommended that
they pay a more particular attention to the forming a good
Infantry.

That each Company of Infantry consist of sixty-eight
rank and file, to be commanded by one Captain, two Lieu-
tenants, one Ensign, four Sergeants, and four Corporals ;
and that they have a Drummer, an.d be furnished with a
Drum and Colours ; that every man be provided with a good
Rifle, if to be had, or otherwise with a common Firelock.
Bayonet, and Cartouch-box, and also with a Tomahawk,
one pound of Gunpowder, and four pounds of Ball, at least,
fitted to the bore of his Gun ; that he be clothed in a Hunt-
ing Shirt, by way of uniform ; and that all endeavour, as
soon as possible, to become acquainted with the military
exercise for Infantry, appointed to be used by His Majesty
in the year 1764.

That each Troop of Horse consist of thirty, exclusive of
Officers ; that every Horseman be provided with a good
Horse, Bridle, Saddle, with Pistols and Holsters, a Carbine,
or other short Firelock, with a Bucket, a Cutting Sword,
or Tomahawk, one pound of Gunpowder, and four pounds
of Ball, at the least, and use the utmost diligence in train-
ing and accustoming his Horse to stand the discharge of
fire-arms, and in making himself acquainted with the mili-
tary exercise for Cavalry.

That, in order to make a further and more ample provi-
sion of Ammunition, it be recommended to the Committees
of the several Counties, that they collect from their Con-
stituents, in such manner as shall be most agreeable to
them, so much money as will be sufficient to purchase half
a pound of Gunpowder, one pound of Lead, necessary
Flints and Cartridge Paper, for every tithable person in
their County ; that they immediately take effectual mea-
sures for the procuring such Gunpowder, Lead, Flints, and
Cartridge Paper, and dispose thereof, when procured, in
such place or places of safety as they may think best: and
it is earnestly recommended to each individual to pay such
proportion of the money necessary for these purposes as by
the respective Committees shall be judged requisite.

That as it may happen that some Counties, from their
situation, may not be apprized of the most certain and
speedy method of procuring the articles before-mentioned,
one General Committee should be appointed, whose busi-
ness it should be to procure, for such Counties as may
make application to them, such articles, and so much there-
of as the moneys wherewith they shall furnish the said

Committee will purchase, after deducting the charges of
transportation, and other necessary expenses.

Resolved, That Robert Carter Nicholas, Thomas Net-
son, and Thomas Whiting, Esquires, or any two of them,
be a Committee for the purpose afore-mentioned.

Resolved unanimously, That the most cordial thanks of
the people of this Colony are a tribute justly due to our
worthy Governour, Lord Dunmore, for his truly noble,
wise, and spirited conduct on the late expedition against
our Indian enemy; a conduct which at once evinces his
Excellency's attention to the true interests of this Colony,
and a zeal in the Executive Department which no dangers
can divert or difficulties hinder from achieving the most
important services to the people who have the happiness
to live under his administration.

Resolved unanimously, That the thanks of this Conven-
tion be presented to the gentlemen Officers and Soldiers
who lately so nobly defended this Colony from the savage
enemy on our frontiers, and by their bravery, not only pro-
cured success to our arms, but must have convinced the
enemy it will be their true interest to preserve the peace
on the terms stipulated by his Excellency Lord Dunmore ;
that we sincerely condole with the relations and acquaint-
ance of those brave men who so nobly fell in battle on that
mournful event, and assure all who have rendered such
important services to this Colony that, so soon as opportu-
nity permits, we will most cheerfully do every thing on our
part to make them ample satisfaction.

Resolved, That Robert Carter Nicholas, Richard Bland,
James Mercer, Edmund Pendleton, Archibald Cary,
Charles Carter of Stafford, Benjamin Harrison, Richard
Henry Lee, Josias Clapham, George Washington, Pat-
rick Henry, James Holt, and Thomas Newton, Esquires,
be a Committee to prepare a plan for the encouragement
of Arts and Manufactures in this Colony.

The Convention then proceeded to the election of Dele-
gates by ballot, to represent this Colony in General Con-
gress, to be held at the City of Philadelphia, on the 10th
day of May next ; when the Honourable Peyton Ran-
dolph, Esquire, George Washington, Patrick Henry,
Richard Henry Lee, Edmund Pendleton, Benjamin Har-
rison, and Richard Bland, Esquires, were chosen for that
purpose.

Resolved, That Robert Carter Nicholas, Esquire, be
desired to lay before the Convention, on Monday next, an
account of the Money received from the several Counties
and Corporations in this Colony, for the use of the Dele-
gates sent to represent this Colony in General Congress.
Adjourned till Monday, 10 o'clock.

Monday, March 27, 1775.

The Committee appointed to prepare a plan for the en-
couragement of Arts and Manufactures, reported the fol-
lowing Resolutions ; which, being severally read, were
unanimously agreed to.

Whereas, it hath been judged necessary for the preser-
vation of the just rights and liberties of America, firmly to
associate against Importations ; and as the freedom, hap-
piness, and prosperity of a State greatly depend on provi-
ding within itself a supply of articles necessary for subsist-
ence, clothing, and defence ; and whereas, it is judged
essential, at this critical juncture, to form a proper plan for
employing the different inhabitants of this Colony, provi-
ding for the poor, and restraining vagrants and other disor-
derly persons, who are nuisances to every society; a regard
for our Country, as well as common prudence, call upon
us to encourage Agriculture, Manufactures, economy, and
the utmost industry : Therefore, this Convention doth
Resolve as follows :

Resolved unanimously, That it be earnestly recommend-
ed to the different Magistrates, Vestries and Church-
wardens throughout this Colony, that they pay a proper
attention, and strict regard to the several Acts of Assembly
made for the restraint of vagrants and the better employing
and maintaining the poor.

Resolved unanimously, That from and after the first day
of May next, no person or persons whatever ought to use,
in his or their families, unless in case of necessity, and on
no account sell to butchers, or kill for market, any Sheep
under four years old ; and where there is a necessity for
using any mutton in his, her, or their families, it is recom-

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CORRESPONDENCE, PROCEEDINGS, &c, MARCH, 1775.

172

mended to kill such only as are least profitable to be
kept.

Resolved unanimously, That the setting up and promo-
ting Woollen, Cotton, and Linen Manufactures ought to be
encouraged in as many different branches as possible, espe-
cially Coating, Flannel, Blankets, Rugs, or Coverlids,
Hosiery, and coarse Cloths, botli broad and narrow.

Resolved unanimously , That all persons having proper
lands for the purpose, ought to cultivate and raise a quanti-
ty of Flax, Hemp, and Cotton, sufficient not only for the
use of his or her own family, but also to spare to others on
moderate terms.

Resolved unanimously, As Salt is a daily and indispens-
able necessary of life, and the making of it amongst our-
selves must be deemed a valuable acquisition, it is therefore
recommended that the utmost endeavours be used to estab-
lish Salt Works, and that proper encouragement be given
to Mr. James Tait, who hath made proposals, and offered
a scheme to the publick, for so desirable a purpose.

Resolved unanimously, That Saltpetre and Sulphur,
being articles of great and necessary use, the making,
collecting, and refining them to the utmost extent, be
recommended, the Convention being of opinion that it
may be done to great advantage.

Resolved unanimously, That the making of Gunpowder
be recommended.

Resolved unanimously, That the manufacturing of iron
into Nails and Wire, and other necessary articles, be recom-
mended.

Resolved unanimously, That the making of Steel ought
to be largely encouraged, as there will be a great demand
for this article.

Resolved unanimously, That the making of different
kinds of Paper ought to be encouraged ; and as the success
of this branch depends on a supply of old Linen and
Woollen Rags, the inhabitants of this Colony are desired,
in their respective families, to preserve these articles.

Resolved unanimously, That whereas Wool Combs,
Cotton and Wool Cards, Hemp and Flax Heckles, have
been for some time made to advantage in some of the
neighbouring Colonies, and are necessary for carrying on
Linen and Woollen Manufactures, the establishing such
Manufactures be recommended.

Resolved unanimously, That the erecting Fulling Mills
and mills for breaking, swingling, and softening Hemp and
Flax, and also that the making Grindstones be recom-
mended.

Resolved unanimously, That the brewing Malt Liquors
in this Colony would tend to render the consumption of
foreign Liquors less necessary. It is therefore recommended
that proper attention be given to the cultivation of Hops
and Barley.

Resolved unanimously, That it be recommended to all
the inhabitants of this Colony, that they use, as the Con-
vention engageth to do, our own Manufactures, and those
of other Colonies, in preference to all others.

Resolved unanimously, That for the more speedily and
effectually carrying these Resolutions into execution, it be
earnestly recommended that Societies be formed in different
parts of this Colony ; and it is the opinion of this Conven-
tion, that proper Premiums ought to be offered in the
several Counties and Corporations, to such persons as shall
excel in the several branches of Manufactures, and it is
recommended to the several Committees of the different
Counties and Corporations, to promote and encourage the
same to the utmost of their power.

The Members of the Convention then, in order to en-
courage Mr. James Tait, who is about to erect Salt Works,
undertook, for their respective Counties, to pay the sum of
Ten Pounds to Robert Carter Nicholas, Esquire, for the
use of the said James Tait, on or before the 10th day of
May next.

His Excellency the Governour having, by Proclamation
bearing date the 21st day of March, in the present year,
declared that His Majesty hath given orders, that all vacant
Lands within this Colony shall he put up in lots at publick
sale, and that the highest bidder for such lots shall be the
purchaser thereof, and shall hold the same subject to a
reservation of one-half penny sterling per acre, by way of
annual quitrent, and of all Mines of gold, silver, and pre-

cious stones, which terms are an innovation on the estab-
lished usage of granting Lands within this Colony :

Resolved, That a Committee be appointed to inquire
whether His Majesty may, of right, advance the terms of
granting Lands in this Colony, and make report thereof to
the next General Assembly or Convention ; and that, in
the mean time, it be recommended to all persons whatever
to forbear purchasing or accepting grants of Lands on the
conditions before-mentioned ; and that Patrick Henry,
Richard Bland, Thomas Jefferson, Robert Carter Nicho-
las, and Edmund Pendleton, Esquires, be appointed of the
said Committee.

Resolved, That the Delegates from the several Coun-
ties in this Colony, as also from the City of Williamsburgh,
and Borough of Norfolk, do, without delay, apply to their
respective Counties and Corporations for Fifteen Pounds,
current money, and transmit the same, so soon as collect-
ed, to Robert Carter Nicholas, Esquire, for the use of the
Deputies sent from this Colony to the General Congress.

On a motion made,

Resolved, That Thomas Jefferson, Esquire, be appoint-
ed a Deputy to represent this Colony in General Congress,
in the room of the Honourable Peyton Randolph, Esquire,
in case of the non-attendance of the said Peyton Randolph,
Esquire.

Resolved, That the said Deputies, or any four of them,
be a sufficient number to represent this Colony in General
Congress.

Resolved, That the thanks of this Convention be pre-
sented to the Rev. Mr. Selden, for performing Divine Ser-
vice, and for his seasonable and excellent Sermon yester-
day.

Resolved, That the thanks of this Convention are justly
due to the Town of Richmond and the neighbourhood, for
their polite reception and entertainment of the Delegates.

Mr. Alexander Purdie having offered to print the pro-
ceedings of this Convention, for the use of the Members
thereof, it is ordered, that the Clerk deliver him a copy of
the said proceedings for that purpose.

Resolved, That this Convention doth consider the dele-
gation of its members as now at an end ; and that it be
recommended to the People of this Colony to choose Dele-
gates to represent them in Convention for one year, as soon
as they conveniently can.

Peyton Randolph, President.

John Tazewell, Clerk of the Convention.

FIELD OFFICERS, FOR NEW-CASTLE COUNTY, DELAWARE.

On Monday, the 20th of March, agreeable to appoint-
ment, the Captains and Subaltern Officers of New-Castle
County (Delaware) met at Christiana Bridge to choose
commanders, when the following gentlemen were chosen,
viz : For the Upper Division, James McKinley, Esquire,
Colonel ; James Latimer, Esq., Lieutenant Colonel ; Tho-
mas Duff, Esq., Major. For the Lower Division : Tho-
mas Cooch, Esq., Colonel ; Samuel Patterson, Lieutenant
Colonel ; Gunning Bedford, Major.

CHESTER-COUNTY (PENNSYLVANIA) COMMITTEE.

March 20, 1775.

Pursuant to adjournment, and publick notice given, the
Committee of Chester County met at the house of Richard
Cheyney, in East- Cain.

On motion, Ordered, That Mr. Hockley, Mr. Johnston,
Mr. Gronow, Mr. Lloyd, Mr. Frazer, Mr. Moore, and Mr.
Taylor, be, and they are hereby appointed a Committee to
essay a draught of a Petition to present to the General As-
sembly of this Province, with regard to the manumission
of Slaves ; especially relating to the freedom of infants
hereafter born of black women within this Colony ; and do
make report of the same to this Committee at their next
meeting.

On motion, Ordered, That each member in this Com-
mittee will use his utmost diligence in collecting the several
sums of money subscribed for the use of Boston, and pay
the same into the hands of Anthony Wayne, Esq., Trea-
surer, at the next meeting of this Committee.

173

CORRESPONDENCE, PROCEEDINGS, &c, MARCH, 1775.

174

The Committee tlien adjourned to meet at the house of
Mr. David Coupland, in the Borough of Chester, on Wed-
nesday, the 31st of May next.

By order of the Committee :

Francis Johnston, Secretary.

LETTER FROM BOSTON TO NEWPORT, RHODE-ISLAND,
DATED MARCH 20, 1775.

We are constantly agitated hy hearing complaints from
different persons, of the more than savage barbarity of the
Soldiers, encouraged, and often joined and headed by the
Officers. They are now become so insolent, that it is
hardly safe to walk the streets at noon-day, and there seems
to be no check or control ; but they are rather countenanced
and encouraged by their superiours in their lawless out-
rage. They appear to me to be a banditti of licensed
free-booters, just let loose upon us, for the innocent and
laudable purposes of robberies, rapes, and murders ; nor
can I at present see any prospect of avoiding these calam-
ities, but by a general evacuation of the Town. The late
news seems to increase their insolence, which was barely
tolerable before. The reason is obvious : the common
soldiers and their wives have frequently and loudly com-
plained of the fallacy and injustice of tlte officers, who
promised them fine houses, rich plunder, and a thousand
other gratifications, which they hoped to be in possession
of long before this, the expectation of which has, in my
opinion, prevented the desertion of hundreds ; but they
grow more and more impatient, so that I fear violence will
sooner or later take place, let what wilj be the determina-
tions in England, unless some method can be adopted to
prevent or restrain them, tantamount to leaving the Town,
as the people in general do not seem inclined to go out.

On Thursday last a friend of mine was beat stone blind
by some soldiers on the Neck, in presence of their com-
manding officer, who seemed to be highly gratified, and on
Saturday I saw three men (two white and one black) who
had just before been most barbarously cut and mangled by
a gang of those military highwaymen, who have for a long
time infested our out-passage to and from the Town. Their
method is for a large party, some with swords or cutlasses,
others with guns and bayonets fixed, to surround an un-
armed man, and order him to deliver, after which they
mangle the poor wretch till their malice is sufficiently
glutted, then suffer him, if able, to crawl away.

LETTER FROM A GENTLEMAN IN THE SERVICE OF AN OFFI-
CER OF STATE AT PARIS, TO HIS FRIEND IN NEWPORT,
RHODE-ISLAND.

My dear Chevalier: You are nearly of my opinion
respecting the affairs between Great Britain and her Col-
onies. Believe me, some years have elapsed since the
scheme was projected for the alteration of Government.
As soon as the project was resolved upon the Cabinet of
Great Britain used all possible means to procure peace
with her neighbouring Nations. The fall of the Duke de

Ch 1 was a mark of the highest complaisance to her.

It is well known that this Minister (though in disgrace)
directed all, or at least the greater part of the business of
our Cabinet. Britain was well enough assured that they
could keep the House of Bourbon still ; but Spain had
given such instructions to her Ambassador as would have
caused a rupture, had they been observed. But Prince
Masserano was recalled.

The death of Louis the Fifteenth, set the spirits of our
people in agitation, the old Parliament made remonstrances,
and our clergy murmurs, on account of the new regula-
tions against them. It was then Lord North caused a
report to circulate at London, of his being ill, that he
might come to Paris incog, in order to ascertain himself
of the disposition of our Court. He remained there but
two days, which time he spent in conference with the Min-
istry, who, like another Danas, were tempered by the
British gold scattered by Jupiter North. His policy was
seducing, and retained us in the same state of inaction we
now continue, that he might be at liberty to set your part
of the woild in confusion.

Assure yourself that Great Britain is not much more
quiet than you are. It is almost the general opinion here

that a revolt will take place in England, if the trade be
interrupted between that Kingdom and the Colonies.

The Royal family of England is too numerous for the
taxes of the Nation to maintain them alone. Besides the
great debt under which they now labour, they expend
much for the support of Hanover ; this accounts why King
George thinks himself obliged to deal with America as
Frederick does with his neighbours.

Orders are given to Isle of Rhe for the transport of four
thousand men, in two Frigates and three Ships-of-the-Line,
to our Colonies: I cannot tell you their destination.

We are busy to complete all the Regiments that are
deficient. The King has caused a general state of his
Marine Force to be laid before him ; and, to conclude, I
assure you that a rupture between Spain and England is
at no ereat distance.

By His Excellency the Right Honourable John Earl of
Dunmore, His Majesty's Lieutenant and Governour-
General of the Colony and Dominion of Virginia, and
Vice- Admiral of the same :

A Proclamation.
Virginia to wit :

Whereas His Majesty did, at the request of the As-
sembly of this Colony permit the Western Boundary
thereof to be extended as the same has been run and
ascertained by Colonel Donclson, and other surveyors
deputed for the purpose; and whereas, His Majesty hath
for the greater convenience of, and the preventing of liti-
gation and disputes among such persons as shall be inclined
to settle upon any of his vacant Lands, ordered that all that
tract of Land included within the aforesaid boundary, and
all other vacant Lands within this Colony be surveyed in
districts, and laid out in lots of from one hundred to one
thousand acres, and as fast as the said surveys shall be
completed by the surveyors duly authorized, and the sur-
veys thereof returned, that the Lands so surveyed and
allotted be put up to publick sale, at such time and place
as shall be appointed by publick notice ; and that the high-
est bidder for such lots and parcels of Land at such sales,
be the purchaser thereof, and be entitled to a grant in fee
simple of the Land so purchased as aforesaid, by letters
patent under the great seal of the Colony, subject to no
conditions or reservations whatever, other than the pay-
ment of the annual quitrent of one half-penny sterling
per acre; and also of all mines of gold, silver, and pre-
cious stones. And whereas advice has been received, that
one Richard Henderson, and other disorderly persons, his
associates, under pretence of a purchase made from the
Indians, contrary to the aforesaid orders and regulations of
His Majesty, do set up a claim to the Lands of the Crown
within the limits of this Colony ; I have thought fit, there-
fore, to issue this my Proclamation, strictly charging all
Justices of the Peace, Sheriffs, and other officers, civil
and military, to use their utmost endeavours to prevent the
unwarrantable and illegal designs of the said Henderson,
and his abetters ; and if the said Henderson, or others con-
cerned with him, shall take possession of, or occupy any
Lands within the limits of His Majesty's Government of
Virginia, merely under any purchase, or pretended pur-
chase made from Indians, without any other title ; that he
or they be required in His Majesty's name forthwith to
depart, and relinquish the possession so unjustly obtained ;
and in case of refusal, and of violent detaining such pos-
session, that he or they be immediately fined and impri-
soned in the manner the laws in such cases direct.

Given under my hand, and the seal of the Colony, this
21st day of March, in the fifteenth year of His Majesty's
rei«n. Dunmore.

God save the King.

Committee Chamber, Norfolk, Va., March 21, 1775.
TO THE PUBLICK.

We, the Committee for Norfolk Borough, find ourselves
under the disagreeable necessity of publishing to the world
the conduct of Captain Sampson, Master of the Snow
Elizabeth, from Bristol. It is not in one instance alone
that he has discovered his opposition to the measures
adopted for the security of our rights and liberties, nor can

175

CORRESPONDENCE.. PROCEEDINGS, fee., MARCH, 1775.

176

lie, on any account, justify his repeated prevarications. It
is not our business to take notice of his passionate and dis-
respectful behaviour towards this Committee, nor his in-
discreet conduct without doors. We shall confine ourselves
to the relation of the following facts: On the 13th day of
February he informed the Committee of his arrival with a
quantity of Salt, that his Snow wanted repairs, and as he
should find it necessary to heave her down here, he de-
manded the consent of this Committee to store the Salt
till the Snow could be refitted. The Committee, after
careful inquiries, (some of his answers to which we find to
be false,) did, at length, consent, upon condition the Salt
should be taken on board again as soon as possible, which
Captain Sampson promised to do. Thus matters rested
till the 8th of March, when this Committee were surprised
with information, that he had given bond at the Custom-
House, and was taking in Lumber without the Salt. He
was sent for, and after discovering a great degree of heat,
did, at length, give his repeated promise to take the Salt
on board as soon as possible, and that he would begin the
next day. More than a week, however, has elapsed, and
he has as yet complied with no part of his promise, nor
taken any of the Salt on board again, but has actually ap-
plied for protection to the Ship-of-War now in this harbour,
under whose stern the Snow lies, where it appears he in-
tends to load with Grain. We, the Committee, do there-
fore declare Captain Sampson a violator of the Association,
and an enemy to American liberty ; and we trust the Mer-
chants, Planters, and Skippers of Vessels in this Colony,
will make him feel their righteous indignation, by breaking
off all kinds of dealings with him, and that they will, in no
wise, be aiding or assisting in procuring a cargo for a man,
who, from the whole tenour of his late conduct, has openly
set the good people of this Country at defiance, and con-
tributed his utmost endeavours to destroy their most essen-
tial interests.

Matthew Phripp, John Boush,
James Taylor, Robert Taylor,

John Hutchings, T. Claiborne,
John Lawrence, Samuel Inglis.
Thomas Ritson,
Extract from the minutes :

William Davies, Secretary.

N. B. The other Members of the Committee were out
of Town at the time of signing.

TALBOT COUNTY (MARYLAND) COMMITTEE.

March 21, 1775.

A meeting of the Committee of Observation for Talbot
County being requested by Mr. Charles Crookshanks, on
Tuesda y, the 21st of March. 1775, the following gentle-
men did accordingly meet at Mr. Brascup's Tavern, viz :

James Lloyd Chamberlaine, Esq., Chairman, James
Hindman, Dr. Moses Allen, John Stevens, John Cochran,
Nathaniel Cooper, John Gibson, Jacob Hindman, Francis
Baker, William Hindman, Robert Lloyd Nicols, Samuel
Thomas, Thomas Ray, Thomas Martin, Jun., Samuel
Sharp, Dr. John Troup.

Mr. Crookshanks thereupon made the following Report :
That the Ship Baltimore, James Longmuir, consigned to
himself by Messrs. Spiers, French &, Co., had arrived the
evening before, with two bales of Goods on board, which,
as would appear by letters he was ready to produce from
the said gentlemen, had been shipped at Glasgow, Novem-
ber 10th, 1774, and were part of a cargo intended to have
been sent by a former Ship ; that the said Longmuir came
by the way of Rotterdam, and had been there detained by
the ice, which had protracted his voyage. The Commit-
tee, upon examination, being satisfied of the truth of the
above report, were of opinion that no imputation ought to
he thrown upon the said Company, of an intention to con-
travene the Non-Importation Agreement entered into by
the Colonies, as it was not possible for them to receive an
account of the proceedings of the Continental Congress,
at the time of shipping the said Goods; and as Mr. Crook-
shanks voluntarily proposed, and solemnly plighted his
honour, that the said bales should not be landed, but sent
back in the same bottom, the Committee were much
pleased with his readiness to comply with the Resolution
of the Continental Congress, accepted the proposal, and

resolved unanimously that the said Goods be sent back to
Glasgow in the same Ship without landing.

Charles Troupe, Clerk pro tern.

ALBANY (NEW-YORK) COMMITTEE.

At a meeting of the Committee of Correspondence for
the City and County of Albany, held the 21st day of
March, 1775:

Resolved unanimously, That Abraham Yates, Jun.,
Esq., Walter Livingston, Esq., Colonel Schuyler, Colonel
Ten Broeck, and Colonel Peter R. Livingston, are ap-
pointed to represent the City and County of Albany at the
intended Provincial Congress to be held at the City of
New- York, the 20th day of April next, for the purpose of
appointing Delegates to represent this Colony at the next
Continental Congress, to be held at Philadelphia the 10th
day of May next. By order of the Committee :

John N. Bleecker, Clerk.

RENSSELAERWYCK MANOR (nEW-YORk) COMMITTEE.

At a meeting of the Committee of Inspection for the
Manor of Rcnsselaerwyck, held the 21st of March, 1775,
it was unanimously resolved, that the thanks of this Com-
mittee be given to Colonel Abraham Ten Broeck. Colonel
Philip Schuyler, and Colonel Peter Livingston, for their
faithful services in the cause of liberty, in the last session
of the General Assembly of this Colony.
By order of the Committee :

Abraham J. Lansing, Chairman.

Poughkoepsie, Dutchess County, N. Y., March 23, 1775.

On the 21st of March, a few friends to liberty met at
the house of Mr. John Bailey, about two or three miles
from Poughkeepsie, and erected a pole on his land, with a
flag on it, bearing on one side the King, and on the other
the Congress and Liberty; but the Sheriff of Dutchess
County the next day, attended by a Judge of the Inferiour
Court, two of His Majesty's Justices of the Peace, and a
Constable, with some others, friends to constitutional liberty
and good order, cut the same down, as a publick nuisance.

FAIRFIELD (CONNECTICUT) COMMITTEE.

At a meeting of the Committee of Inspection for the
Town of Fairfield, in Connecticut, held in Fairfield, on
the 21st day of this instant March:

Daniel Wheeler, Obadiah Piatt, and Ebenezer Hall, all
of said Fairfield, being duly notified to appear before said
Committee, and answer to the complaints made against
them, did not appear.

Whereupon the Committee proceeded to examine the
evidences, and upon a full and impartial hearing of them,
they were unanimously of opinion that the said Wlieeler,
Piatt, and Hall, were guilty of a breach of the Associa-
tion of the Continental Congress ; and that, pursuant to
the directions of the County Congress, all connections,
commerce, and dealings, ought to be withdrawn from them
by every friend to his Country.

And ordered, That the Clerk of this Committee make
this judgment publick, that they may be dealt with ac-
cordingly.

Thaddeus Burr, Clerk to the Committee.

SAMUEL ADAMS TO R. H. LEE.

Boston, March 21, 1775.

Sir: I am much obliged to you for your favour of
4th of February last, by Captain Layton. From the be-
ginning of this great contest with the Mother Country, I
have seen Virginia distinguishing herself in the support of
American liberty; and in the liberal donations received
from all parts of that Colony for the sufferers in this Town,
we have had abundant testimonies of their unanimity and
zeal for that all-important cause. I have the pleasure to
assure you, that the people of this Colony, (saving a few-
detestable men, most of whom are in this Town,) are also
firm and united. General Gage is still here, with eleven
Regiments, besides several detachments; yet, it is generally
supposed, that there are not more than two thousand five
hundred effective men in all. They have been very sickly
through the winter past ; many have died, and many others

177

CORRESPONDENCE, PROCEEDINGS, &c, MARCH, 1'

178

have deserted. I have seen a joint list, and 1 believe it to
be a true one, of the Royal Irish, and the detachments
from the Fifty-Sixth, in which the whole number was one
hundred and sixty-seven, and only one hundred and two
of them effective. But though the number of the Troops
is diminished, the insolence of the Officers (at least some
ol them) is increased. In private rencontres, I have not
heard of a single instance of their coming off other than
second best. I will give you several instances of their
behaviour in publick. On the 6th instant there was an
adjournment of one of our Town-meetings, when an ora-
tion was delivered in commemoration of the massacre on
the 5th of March, 1770. I had long expected that they
would take that occasion to beat up a breeze, and, there-
fore, (seeing many of the Officers present before the orator
came in,) as moderator of the meeting, I took care to have
them treated with civility, inviting them into convenient
seats, &c, that they might have no pretence to behave ill ;
for it is a good maxim, in politicks as well as in war, to
put and keep the enemy in the wrong. They behaved
tolerably well until the oration was finished, when, upon a
motion made to appoint another orator, as usual, they began
to hiss, which irritated the assembly to the greatest degree,
and confusion ensued ; they, however, did not gain their
end, which was apparently to break up the meeting, for
order was soon restored, and we proceeded regularly and
finished the business. I am persuaded, that were it not
for the danger of precipitating a crisis, not a man of them
would have been spared. It was provoking enough to the
whole corps, that while there were so many Troops stationed
here, with the design of suppressing Town-meetings, there
should yet be one for the purpose of delivering an oration
to commemorate a massacre perpetrated by Soldiers, and
to show the danger of Standing Armies ; they, therefore,
it seems, a few days after, vented their passion on a poor
simple countryman, the state of whose case is drawn up by
himself, and sworn to before a Magistrate, as you will see
by the enclosed ; thus you see, that the practice of tarring
and feathering, which has so often been exclaimed against
by the Tories, and even in the British House of Commons,
as inhuman and barbarous, has, at length, been revived by
some of the polite Officers of the British Army, stationed
in this place professedly to prevent riots. Some gentle-
men of the Town waited on the General on this occasion ;
he appeared to be angry at it, and declared that he knew
nothing about any such design ; he said that he had, indeed,
heard an irregular beat of the drum, (for they passed by his
house,) but thought they were drumming a bad woman
through the streets ! This, to be sure, would not have
been a riot. The Selectmen of Billerica, an inland Town,
about thirty miles distant, to which the abused man be-
longed, have made a remonstrance to the General, a copy
of which is enclosed. The General promised them that
he would inquire into the matter, but we hear nothing more
about it. Some say that he has lost the command over
his Officers, and is afraid of displeasing them ; how this
may be I cannot say. Samuel Adams.

COLONEL E. DOOL1TTLE TO JOHN HANCOCK.

Petersham, March 21, 1775.

Sir : Please to communicate the following to your body.
Having received a requisition from the honourable Con-
gress, directing of me to make a return of my Regiment,
their numbers and equipments for war, I have accordingly
applied myself to the business, but have not as yet obtained
a return of but two or three companies, and if I can obtain
a full account before the Congress rises, shall forward it
immediately. But we are in a most lamentable situation,
for want of a sanction of Government on our establishments,
our Tory enemies using all their secret machinations to di-
vide us and break us to pieces. Add to this the difficulties
that artSe by ambitious men, who are endeavouring to
break our companies to pieces, in order to get promotion ;
for as there is no establishment but what arises in the
breasts of individuals, we are continually breaking to pieces,
and a number of companies in my Regiment are now in
such circumstances; and I fear if we are not soon called to
action, we shall be like a rope of sand, and have no more
strength. If it may be received with candour, I should be
exceedingly glad if our Continental Committee might be

Fourth Series. — Vol. ii.

instructed to lay the difficulties we labour under for want
of a Civil Constitution before that body, and that they en-
deavour to obtain their voice in justification of this Province
in establishing one. God give you all grace and wisdom
to direct you in the important affairs of American liberty.
I remain your and the publick's well wisher and humble
servant, Ephraim Doolittle.

To the Honourable John Hancock, President of the
Honourable Provincial Congress of Massachusetts.

Frankfort, March, 1775.

To the Right Honourable John Wilkes, Lord Mayor of
the City of London, at the Mansion House:

My Lord : I am not informed of any person who has
business with some merchants in Maryland or Pennsylva-
nia. I read the London Chronicle, but I do not find out
any direction ; therefore I think it very excusable for a
stranger to take the liberty to address these lines to you,
as the Chief Magistrate of all the British Dominions, espe-
cially as it gives me at the same time the opportunity to
pay you my respects, and to tell you that I admired and
defended in our Germany, (where slavery prevails,) always
your spirit and intrepidity towards bad Ministers, being a
great lover and well wisher of true English liberty. I live
in a great City of Germany. Some weeks ago a printer
came to me, and showed me two Bank-notes,* (not know-
ing the language nor the contents,) which two foreigners
brought to him, to reprint them exactly ; I found the one
to be a Bank-note of Anna2)olis, in Maryland, and the
other of Pennsylvania, of Fifty and of Five Shillings, both
of 1774. I was surprised, and told the printer he should
not at all meddle with the rascals who brought him these
papers. Afterwards I heard that they have been at two
engravers, to get two others counterfeited, and they refused
likewise. But I don't doubt they will find out in another
Town some ignorant or hungry engraver or printer. I beg
your Lordship to communicate these contents of my letter
to the publick, in the London Chronicle, to prevent any
mischief and imposition on the honest Americans, vexed
not only by taxes, but also by bad Bank-notes. It will
give me great pleasure to read in this paper my notice to
frustrate the designs of these impostors.

I have the honour to be, with the greatest respect, my
Lord, your most humble and obedient servant,

Britannophilus.

The above is a true copy of an original letter, delivered
to me by the Right Honourable the Lord Mayor of Lon-
don. Arthur Lee.

London, March 22, 1775.

private negotiations of dr. franklin IN LONDON,
related in a letter to his son, dated at sea,
march 22, 1775.

On board the Pennsylvania Packet, Captain Osborne, }
bound to Philadelphia, March 22, 1775. $

Dear Son : Having now a little leisure for writing, I
will endeavour, as I promised you, to recollect what par-
ticulars I can of the negotiations 1 have lately been con-
cerned in, with regard to the misunderstandings between
Great Britain and America.

During the recess of the last Parliament, which had
passed the severe Acts against the Province of Massachu-
setts Bay, the minority having been sensible of their weak-
ness as an effect of their want of union among themselves,
began to think seriously of a coalition. For they saw in
the violence of these American measures, if persisted in, a
hazard of dismembering, weakening, and perhaps ruining
the British Empire. This inclined some of them to pro-
pose such an union with each other, as might be more
respectable in the ensuing session, have more weight in
opposition, and be a body out of which a new Ministry
might easily be formed, should the ill success of the late
measures, and the firmness of the Colonies in resisting
them, make a change appear necessary to the King.

1 took some pains to promote this disposition, in conver-
sation with several of the principal among the minority of
both Houses, whom I besought and conjured most earnest-
ly not to suffer, by their little misunderstandings, so glori-

* Meaning our bills of credit.

12

179

CORRESPONDENCE, PROCEEDINGS, fee., MARCH, 1775.

160

ous a fabrick as the present British Empire to be demol-
ished by these blunderers; and tor their encouragement
assured them, as far as my opinions could give any assur-
ance, of the firmness and unanimity of America, the con-
tinuance of which was what they had frequent doubts ol,
and appeared extremely apprehensive and anxious con-
cerning it.

From the time of the affront given me at the Council
Board in January, 1774, 1 had never attended the levee of
any Minister. I made no justification of myself from the
charges brought against me ; 1 made no return of the injury
by abusing my adversaries, but held a cool sullen silence,
reserving myself to some future opportunity; for which
conduct I had several reasons, not necessary here to spe-
cify. Now and then 1 heard it said, that the reasonable
part of the Administration was ashamed of the treatment
they had given me. I suspected that some who told me
this, did it to draw from me my sentiments concerning it,
and perhaps my purposes; but 1 said little or nothing upon
the subject. In the mean time, their measures with regard
to New-England failing of the success that had been con-
fidently expected, and finding themselves more and more
embarrassed, they began (as it seems) to think of making
use of me, if they could, to assist in disengaging them.
But it was too humiliating to think of applying to me
openly and directly, and therefore it was contrived to ob-
tain what they could of my sentiments through others.

The accounts from America, during the recess, all mani-
fested that the measures of Administration had neither
divided nor intimidated the people there ; that, on the
contrary, they were more and more united and determined,
and that a Non-Importation Agreement was likely to take
place. The Ministry thence apprehending that this, by
distressing the trading and manufacturing Towns, might in-
fluence votes against the Court in the elections for a new
Parliament, (which were in course to come on the succeed-
ing year,) suddenly and unexpectedly dissolved the old
one, and ordered the choice of a new one within the short-
est time admitted by law, before the inconveniences of that
agreement could begin to be felt, or produce any such
effect.

When I came to England in 1757, you may remember
I made several attempts to be introduced to Lord Chat-
ham, (at that time first Minister,) on account of my Penn-
sylvania business, but without success. He was then too
great a man, or too much occupied in affairs of greater
moment. I was therefore obliged to content myself with
a kind of non-apparent and unacknowledged communica-
tion through Mr. Potter and Mr. Wood, his Secretaries,
who seemed to cultivate an acquaintance with me by their
civilities, and drew from me what information 1 could give
relative to the American war, with my sentiments occasion-
ally on measures that were proposed or advised by others,
which gave me the opportunity of recommending and en-
forcing the utility of conquering Canada. I afterwards
considered Mr. Pitt as an inaccessible ; I admired him at a
distance, and made no more attempts for a nearer acquaint-
ance. 1 had only once or twice the satisfaction of hearing,
through Lord Shelburne, and I think Lord Stanhope, that
he did me the honour of mentioning me sometimes as a
person of respectable character.

But towards the end of August last, returning from
Brii'-hthclmstone, I called to visit my friend, Mr. Sargent,
at his seat, Hoisted, in Kent, agreeably to a former engage-
ment. He let me know that he had promised to conduct
me to Ijord Stanhope's, at Chcvening, who expected I
would call on him when I came into that neighbourhood.
We accordingly waited on Lord Stanhope that evening,
who told me that Lord Chatham desired to see me, and
that Mr. Sargent's house, where I was to lodge, being in
the way, he would call for me there the next morning, and
carry me to lh,./ls. This was done accordingly. That
truly meat man received me with abundance of civility,
inquired particularly into the situation of affairs in Ame-
rv-ti, spoke feelingly of the severity of the late laws against
the Massachusetts, gave me some account of his speech in
opposing them, and expressed great regard and esteem for
the people of that Country, who he hoped would continue
firm and united in defending, by all peaceable and legal
s, their constitutional rights. 1 assured him that" I
made no doubt they would do so; which he said he was

pleased to hear from me, as he was sensible I must be well
acquainted with them. I then took occasion to remark to
him, that in former cases great Empires had crumbled first
at their extremities, from this cause ; that Countries remote
from the seat and eye of Government, which therefore
could not well understand their affairs, for want of full and
true information, had never been well governed, but had
been oppressed by bad Governours, on presumption that
complaint was difficult to be made and supported against
them at such a distance ; hence such Governours had been
encouraged to go on, till their oppressions became intoler-
able. But that this Empire had happily found, and long
been in the practice of a method, whereby every Province
was well governed, being trusted in a great measure with
the government of itself; that hence had risen such satis-
faction in the subjects, and such encouragement to new
settlements, that had it not been for the late wrong poli-
ticks, (which would have Parliament to be omnipotent,
though it ought not to be, unless it could at the same time
be omniscient,) we might have gone on extending our
western Empire, adding Province to Province, as far as the
South Sea. That I lamented the ruin which seemed im-
pending over so fine a plan, so well adapted to make all the
subjects of the greatest Empire happy; and I hoped that
if his Lordship, with the other great and wise men of the
British Nation, would unite and exert themselves, it might
yet be rescued out of the mangling hands of the present set
of blundering Ministers; and that the union and harmony
between Britain and her Colonies, so necessary to the
welfare of both, might be restored. He replied, with great
politeness, that my idea of extending our Empire in that
manner was a sound one, worthy of a great, benevolent,
and comprehensive mind ; he wished with me for a good
understanding among the different parts of the Opposition
here, as a means of restoring the ancient harmony of the
two Countries, which he most earnestly desired ; but he
spoke of the coalition of our domestick parties as attended
with difficulty, and rather to be desired than expected.
He mentioned an opinion prevailing here, that America
aimed at setting up for itself as an independent State, or at
least to get rid of the Navigation Acts. I assured him that,
having more than once travelled almost from one end of
the Continent to the other, and kept a great variety of
company, eating, drinking, and conversing with them free-
ly, 1 never had heard in any conversation from any person,
drunk or sober, the least expression of a wish for a separa-
tion, or a hint that such a tiling would be advantageous to
America; and as to the Navigation Act, the main material
part of it, that of carrying on trade in British or Plantation
bottoms, excluding foreign Ships from our Ports, and navi-
gating with three quarters British seaman, was as accept-
able to us as it could be to Britain. That we were even
not'against regulations of the general Commerce by Parlia-
ment, provided such regulations were bona fide for the
benefit of the whole Empire, not for the small advantage of
one part to the great injury of another, such as the obliging
our Ships to call in England with our wine and fruit from
Portugal or Spain ; the restraints on our Manufactures, in
the woollen and hat-making branches, the prohibiting of
slitting-mills, steel-works, &c. He allowed that some
amendment might be made in those Acts; but said those
relating to the slitting-mills, trip-hammers, and steel-works,
were agreed to by our agents in a compromise on the oppo-
sition made here to abating the duty.

In fine, he expressed much satisfaction in my having
called upon him, and particularly in the assurances I had
given him that America did not aim at independence,
adding that he should be glad to see me a^ain as often as
might be. I said I should not fail to avail myself of the
permission he was pleased to give me, of waiting upon his
Lordship occasionally, being very sensible of the honour,
and of the great advantages and improvement I should reap
from his instructive conversation, which indeed was not a
mere compliment.

The new Parliament was to meet the 29th of November,
1774. About the beginning of that month, being at the
Royal Society, Mr. Paper, one of our members, told me
there was a certain lady who had a desire of playing with
me at chess, fancying she could beat me, and had request-
ed him to bring me to her: it was, he said, a lady with
whose acquaintance he was sure I should be pleased, a

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CORRESPONDENCE, PROCEEDINGS, &c, MARCH, 1775.

182

sister of Lord Howe's, and lie hoped I would not refuse
the challenge. I said I had been long out of practice, but
would wait upon the lady when he and she should think fit.
He told me where her house was, and would have me call
soon, and without further introduction, which I undertook
to do; hut thinking it a little awkward, I postponed it ;
and on the 30th, meeting him again at the feast of the
Society election, being the day after the Parliament met,
he put me in mind of my promise, and that 1 had not kept
it, and would have me name a day, when, he said, he
would call for me and conduct me. I named the Friday
following. He called accordingly ; I went with him, play-
ed a few games with the lady, whom 1 found of very sensi-
ble conversation and pleasing behaviour, which induced me
to agree most readily to an appointment for another meet-
ing a few days afterwards, though I had not the least appre-
hension that any political business could have any connex-
ion with this new acquaintance.

On the Thursday preceding this chess party Mr. David
Barclay called on me, to have some discourse concerning
the meeting of merchants to petition Parliament. When
that was over, he spoke of the dangerous situation of Ame-
rican affairs, the hazard that a civil war might be brought
on by the present measures, and the great merit that per-
son would have who could contrive some means of pre-
venting so terrible a calamity, and bring about a reconcilia-
tion. He was then pleased to add, that he was persuaded,
from my knowledge of both Countries, my character and
influence in one of them, and my abilities in business, no
man had it so much in his power as myself. I naturally
answered, that I should be very happy if 1 could in any
degree be instrumental in so good a work, but that 1 saw
no prospect of it ; for though I was sure the Americans
were always willing and ready to agree, upon any equita-
ble terms, yet I thought an accommodation impracticable,
unless both sides wished it; and by what I could judge
from the proceedings of the Ministry, I did not believe
they had the least disposition towards it ; that they rather
wished to provoke the North American people into an
open rebellion, which might justify a military execution,
and thereby gratify a grounded malice which I conceived to
exist here against the Whigs and dissenters of that Coun-
try. Mr. Barclay apprehended I judged too hardly of the
Ministers; he was persuaded they were not all of that tem-
per, and he fancied they would be very glad to get out of
their present embarrassment on any terms, only saving the
honour and dignity of Government. He wished, therefore,
that 1 would think of the matter, and he would call again,
and converse with me further upon it. I said 1 would do
so, as he requested it, but I had no opinion of its answering
any purpose. We parted upon this. But two days after
I received a letter from him, enclosed in a note from Dr.
Fothtrgill, both which follow.

Youngsbury, near Ware, 3d 12 mo. 1774.

Esteemed Friend: After we parted on Thursday last,
I accidentally met our mutual friend Doctor Fothergill, in
my way home, and intimated to him the subject of our
discourse ; in consequence of which, I received from him an
invitation to a further conference on this momentous affair,
and 1 intend to be in Town to-morrow accordingly, to meet
at his house between four and five o'clock ; and we unite
in the request of thy company. We are neither of us
insensible, that the affair is of that magnitude as should
almost deter private persons from meddling with it ; at the
same time we are respectively such well-wishers to the
cause, that nothing in our power ought to be left undone,
though the utmost of our efforts may be unavailable. I
am thy respectful friend, David Barclay.

Doctor Franklin, Craven Street.

Doctor Fothergill presents his respects to Doctor
Franklin, and hopes for the favour of his company in
Harper Street to-morrow evening, to meet their mutual
friend David Barclay, to confer on American affairs. As
near five o'clock as may be convenient.

Harper Street, 3d inst.

The time thus appointed was the evening of the day on
which I was to have my second chess party with the agree-
able Mrs. Howe, whom I met accordingly. After playing
as long as we liked, we fell into a little chat, partly on a

mathematical problem,* and partly about the new Parlia-
ment then just met, when she said, " And what is to be
done with this dispute between Great Britain and the
Colonies? I hope we are not to have a Civil War."
They should kiss and be friends, said 1 ; what can they do
better? Quarrelling can be of service to neither, but is
ruin to both. " I have often said," replied she, " that I
wished Government would employ you to settle the dis-
pute for them ; I am sure nobody could do it so well. Do
not you think that the thing is practicable ?" Undoubtedly,
madam, if the parties are disposed to reconciliation ; for
the two Countries have really no clashing interests to differ
about. It is rather a matter of punctilio, which two or
three reasonable people might settle in half an hour. I
thank you for the good opinion you are pleased to express
of me ; but the Ministers will never think of employing
me in that good work ; they choose rather to abuse me.
" Aye," said she, " they have behaved shamefully to you.
And indeed some of them are now ashamed of it them-
selves." I looked upon this as accidental conversation,
thought no more of it, and went in the evening to the
appointed meeting at Doctor Fothergill's, where I found
Mr. Barclay with him.

The Doctor expatiated feelingly on the mischiefs likely
to ensue from the present difference, the necessity of ac-
commodating it, and the great merit of being instrumental
in so good a work ; concluding with some compliments to
me ; that nobody understood the subject so thoroughly,
and had a better head for business of the kind ; that it
seemed therefore a duty incumbent oil me, to do every thing
I could to accomplish a reconciliation ; and that as he had
with pleasure heard from David Barclay, that I had pro-
mised to think of it, he hoped I had put pen to paper, and
formed some plan for consideration, and brought it with me.
I answered, that I had formed no plan ; as the more I
thought of the proceedings against the Colonies, the more
satisfied I was that there did not exist the least disposition
in the Ministry to an accommodation ; that therefore all
plans must be useless. He said, I might be mistaken ; that
whatever was the violence of some, he had reason, good
reason, to believe others were differently disposed ; and
that if I would draw a plan which we three upon consider-
ing should judge reasonable, it might be made use of, and
answer some good purpose, since he believed that either
himself or David Barclay could get it communicated to
some of the most moderate among the Ministers, who
would consider it with attention ; and what appeared rea-
sonable to us, two of us being Englishmen, might appear
so to them. As they both urged this with great earnest-
ness, and when I mentioned the impropriety of my doing
any thing of the kind at the time we were in daily expect-
ation of hearing from the Congress, who undoubtedly
would be explicit on the means of restoring a good under-
standing, they seemed impatient, alleging that it was uncer-
tain when we should receive the result of the Congress,
and what it would be ; that the least delay might be dan-
gerous; that additional punishments for Neiv-England
were in contemplation, and accidents might widen the
breach, and make it irreparable ; therefore, something pre-
ventive could not be too soon thought of and applied. I
was, therefore, finally prevailed with to promise doing what
they desired, and to meet them again on Tuesday evening
at the same place, and bring with me something for their
consideration.

Accordingly, at the time, I met with them, and produced
the following paper:

Hints for Conversation upon the subject of terms that
might probably produce a durable Union between Bri-
tain and the Colonies.

1 . The Tea destroyed to be paid for.

2. The Tea-duty Act to be repealed, and all the duties
that have been received upon it to be repaid into the trea-
suries of the several Provinces from which they have been
collected.

3. The Acts of Navigation to be all re-enacted in the

Colonies.

4. A Naval Officer appointed by the Crown to reside in
each Colony, to see that those Acts are observed.

* This lady (which is a little unusual in ladies) has a good deal of
mathematical knowledge. [Note of Dr. Franklin.]

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CORRESPONDENCE, PROCEEDINGS, &c, MARCH, 1775.

184

5. All the Acts restraining Manufactures in the Colo-
nies, to he repealed.

6. All Duties arising on the Acts for regulating Trade
with the Colonies, to he for the publick use of the respect-
ive Colonies, and paid into their Treasuries. The Collec-
tors and Custom-House Officers to be appointed by each
Governour, and not sent from England.

7. In consideration of the Americans maintaining their
own Peace Establishment, and the monopoly Britain is to
have of their Commerce, no requisition to be made from
them in time of peace.

8. No Troops to enter and quarter in any Colony, but
with the consent of its Legislature.

9. In time of war, on requisition made by the King,
with the consent of Parliament, every Colony shall raise
money by the following rules or proportions, viz: If Bri-
tain, on account of the war, raises Three Shillings in the
Pound to its Land Tax, then the Colonies to add to their
last general Provincial Peace Tax a sum equal to one-
fourth thereof; and if Britain on the same account pays
Four Shillings in the Pound, then the Colonies to add to
their said last Peace Tax a sum equal to half thereof;
which additional tax is to be granted to His Majesty, and
to be employed in raising and paying men for land or sea
service, furnishing provisions, transports, or for such other
purposes as the King shall require and direct : and though
no Colony may contribute less, each may add as much by
voluntary grant as they shall think proper.

10. Castle William to be restored to the Province of the
Massachusetts-Bay, and no fortress built by the Crown in
any Province, but with the consent of its Legislature.

11. The late Massachusetts and Quebeck Acts to be re-
pealed, and a free Government granted to Canada.

12. All Judges to be appointed during good behaviour,
with equally permanent salaries, to be paid out of the
Province revenues by appointment of the Assemblies : or,
if the Judges are to be appointed during the pleasure of
the Crown, let the salaries be during the pleasure of the
Assemblies, as heretofore.

13. Governours to be supported by the Assemblies of
each Province.

14. If Britain will give up its monopoly of the Ameri-
can Commerce, then the aid above-mentioned to be given
by America in time of peace, as well as in time of war.

15. The extension of the Act of Henry VIII., con-
cerning treasons, to the Colonies, to be formally disowned
by Parliament.

16. The American Admiralty Courts reduced to the
same powers they have in England, and the Acts estab-
lishing them to be re-enacted in America.

17. All powers of internal legislation in the Colonies to
be disclaimed by Parliament.

In reading this paper a second time, I gave my reasons
at length for each article.

On the first I observed, that when the injury was done,
Britain had a right to reparation, and would certainly have
had it on demand, as was the case when injury was done
by mobs in the time of the Stamp Act : or she might have
a right to return an equal injury, if she rather chose to do
that ; but she could not have a right both to reparation and
to return an equal injury, much less had she a right to
return the injury ten or twenty fold, as she had done by
blocking up the Port of Boston: all which extra injury
ought, in my judgment, to be repaired by Britain: that
therefore if paying for the Tea was agreed to by me, as an
article fit to be proposed, it was merely from a desire of
peace, and in compliance with their opinion expressed at
our first meeting, that this was a sine qua non, that the
dignity of Britain required it, and that if this were agreed
to, every thing else would be easy: this reasoning was
allowed to be just ; but still the article was thought neces-
sary to stand as it did.

On the second, That the Act should be repealed, as
having never answered any good purpose, as having been
the cause of the present mischief, and never likely to be
executed. That the Act being considered as unconstitutional
by the Americans, and what the Parliament had no right
to make, they must consider all the money extorted by it
as so much wrongfully taken, and of which therefore
restitution ought to be made ; and the rather as it would

furnish a fund, out of which the payment for the Tea
destroyed might best be defrayed. The gentlemen were
of opinion, that the first part of this article, viz: the
repeal, might be obtained, but not the refunding part, and
therefore advised striking that out: but as I thought it just
and right, I insisted on its standing.

On the third and fourth articles I observed, we were
frequently charged with views of abolishing the Navigation
Act. That, in truth, those parts of it which were of most
importance to Britain, as tending to increase its Naval
strength, viz : those restraining the Trade, to be carried on
only in Ships belonging to British subjects, navigated by
at least three quarters British or Colony seamen, &c,
were as acceptable to us as they could be to Britain, since
we wished to employ our own Ships in preference to for-
eigners, and had no desire to see foreign Ships enter our
ports. That indeed the obliging us to land some of our
commodities in England before we could carry them to
foreign markets, and forbidding our importation of some
Goods directly from foreign Countries, we thought a hard-
ship, and a greater loss to us than gain to Britain, and
therefore proper to be repealed : but as Britain had deemed
it an equivalent for her protection, we had never applied
or proposed to apply for such repeal ; and if they must be
continued, I thought it best (since the power of Parlia-
ment to make them was now disputed) that they should
be re-enacted in all the Colonies, which would demonstrate
their consent to them : and then if, as in the sixth article,
all the duties arising on them were to be collected by offi-
cers appointed and salaried in the respective Governments,
and the produce paid into their treasuries, I was sure the
Acts would be better apd more faithfully executed, and at
much less expense, and one great source of misunder-
standing removed between the two Countries, viz : the
calumnies of low officers appointed from home, who were
for ever abusing the people of the Country to Government,
to magnify their own zeal, and recommend themselves
to promotion. That the extension of the admiralty juris-
diction, so much complained of, would then no longer be
necessary ; and that besides its being the interest of the
Colonies to execute those Acts, which is the best security,
Government might be satisfied of its being done, from
accounts to be sent home by the Naval Officers of the
fourth article. The gentlemen were satisfied with these
reasons, and approved the third and fourth articles ; so
they were to stand.

The fifth they apprehended would meet with difficulty.
They said, that restraining manufactures in the Colonies
was a favourite idea here ; and therefore they wished that
article to be omitted, as the proposing it would alarm and
hinder perhaps the considering and granting others of more
importance : but as I insisted on the equity of allowing all
subjects in every Country to make the most of their natural
advantages, they desired I would at least alter the last word
from repealed to reconsidered, which I complied with.

In maintaining the seventh article (which was at first
objected to, on the principle that all under the care of
Government should pay towards the support of it,) my
reasons were, that if every distinct part of the King's Do-
minions supported its own Government in time of peace,
it was all that could justly be required of it ; that all the
old or confederated Colonies had done so from their begin-
ning ; that their taxes for that purpose were very consider-
able ; that new Countries had many publick expenses
which old ones were free from, the works being clone to
their hands by their ancestors, such as making roads and
bridges, erecting churches, court-houses, forts, quays, and
other publick buildings, founding schools and places of
education, hospitals and alms-houses, he, he. ; that the
voluntary and the legal subscriptions and taxes for such
purposes, taken together, amounted to more than was paid
by equal estates in Britain. That it would be best for
Britain, on two accounts, not to take money from us as
contribution to its publick expense, in time of peace ; first,
for that just so much less would be got from us in Com-
merce, since all we could spare was already gained from
us by Britain in that way ; and secondly, that coming into
the hands of British Ministers, accustomed to prodigality
of publick money, it would be squandered and dissipated,
answering no good general purpose. That if we were to
be taxed towards the support of Government in Britain,

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CORRESPONDENCE, PROCEEDINGS, &c, MARCH, 1"5.

18b

as Scotland has been since the union, we ought then to be
allowed the same privileges in trade as she has been allowed.
That if we are called upon to give to the sinking mod or
the national debt, Ireland ought to be likewise called upon ;
and both they and we, if we gave, ought to have some
means established of inquiring into (he application, and
securing a compliance with the terms on which we should
grant. That British Ministers would perhaps not like our
meddling with such matters ; and that hence might arise
new causes of misunderstanding. That upon the whole,
therefore, I thought it best on all sides, that no aids shall
be asked or expected from the Colonies in time of peace ;
that it would then be their interest to grant bountifully,
and exert themselves vigorously in time of war, the sooner
to put an end to it. That specie was not to be had to send
to England in supplies, but the Colonies could carry on
war with their own paper money : which would pay
Troops, and for Provisions, Transports, Carriages, Cloth-
ing, Anns, &.c. So this seventh article was at length
agreed to without further objection.

The eighth the gentlemen were confident would never
be granted. For the whole world would be of opinion that
the King, who is to defend all parts of his Dominions,
should have of course a right to place his Troops where
they might best answer that purpose. 1 supported the
article upon principles equally important in my opinion to
Britain as to the Colonies : for that if the King could
bring into one part of his Dominions, Troops raised in any
other part of them, without the consent of tire Legislatures
of the part to which they were brought, he might bring
Armies raised in America into England without consent
of Parliament, which probably would not like it, as a few
years since they had not liked the introduction of the Hes-
sians and Hanoverians, though justified by the supposition
of its being a time of danger. That if there should be at
any time real occasion for British Troops in America, there
was no doubt of obtaining the consent of the Assemblies
there ; and I was so far from being willing to drop this arti-
cle, that I thought I ought to add another, requiring all the
present Troops to be withdrawn, before America could be
expected to treat or agree upon any terms of accommoda-
tion; as what they should now do of that kind, might be
deemed the effect of compulsion, the appearance of which
ought as much as possible to be avoided, since those rea-
sonable things might be agreed to, where the parties seemed
at least to act freely, which would be strongly refused under
threats, or the semblance of force. That the withdrawing
the Troops was therefore necessary to make any treaty
durably binding on the part of the Americans, since proof
of having acted under force, would invalidate any agree-
ment : and it could be no wonder that we should insist on
the Crown's having no right to bring a Standing Army
among us in time of peace ; when we saw now before our
eyes a striking instance of the ill use to be made of it, viz :
to distress the King's subjects in different parts of his Do-
minions, one part after the other, into a submission to arbi-
trary power, which was the avowed design of the Army
and Fleet now placed at Boston. Finding me obstinate,
the gentlemen consented to let this stand, but did not seem
quite to approve of it: they wished, they said, to have
this paper or plan, that they might show as containing the
sentiments of considerate impartial persons, and such as
they might as Englishmen support, which they though
could not well be the ease with this article.

The ninth article was so drawn, in compliance with an
idea of Dr. FothergilVs, started at our first meeting, viz :
that Government here would probably not be satisfied with
the promise of voluntary grants in time of war from the
Assemblies, of which the quantity must be uncertain ; that
therefore it would be best to proportion them in some way
to the Shillings in the Pound raised in England ; but how
such proportion could be ascertained he was at a loss to
contrive ; I was desired to consider it. It had been said,
too, that Parliament was become jealous of the right
claimed and heretofore used by the Crown, of raising
money in the Colonies without Parliamentary consent ; and
therefore, since we would not pay Parliamentary taxes,
future requisitions must be made with consent of Parlia-
ment, and not otherwise. I wondered that the Crown
should be willing to give up that separate right, but had no
objection to its limiting itself, if it thought proper : so I

drew the article accordingly, and contrived to proportion
the aid by the tax of the last year of peace. And since
it was thought that the method I should have liked best
would never be agreed to, viz : a Continental Congress to
be called by the Crown, for answering requisitions and
proportioning aids ; I chose to leave room for voluntary
additions by the separate Assemblies, that the Crown might
have some motive for calling them together, and cultivating
their good will, and they have some satisfaction in showing
their loyalty and their zeal in the common cause, and an
opportunity of manifesting their disapprobation of a war, if
tbey did not think it a just one. This article, therefore,
met with no objection from them ; and I had another rea-
son for liking it, viz : that the view of the proportion to be
given in time of war, might make us the more frugal in
time of peace.

For the tenth article, I urged the injustice of seizing
that Fortress, (which had been built at an immense charge
by the Province, for the defence of their Port against Na-
tional enemies,) and turning it into a citadel for awing the
Town, restraining their Trade, blocking up their Port, and
depriving them of their privileges : that a great deal had
been said of their injustice in destroying the Tea ; but here
was a much greater injustice uncompensated, that Castle
having cost the Province Three Hundred Thousand
Pounds : and that such a use made of a Fortress they
had built, would not only effectually discourage every
Colony from ever building another, and thereby leave
them more exposed to foreign enemies, but was a good
reason for their insisting that the Crown should never erect
any hereafter in their limits without the consent of the Le-
gislature : the gentlemen had not much to say against this
article ; but thought it would hardly be admitted.

The eleventh aiticle it was thought would be strongly
objected to ; that it would be urged the old Colonists could
have nothing to do with the affairs of Canada, whatever
we had with those of the Massachusetts ; that it would be
considered as an officious meddling merely to disturb Go-
vernment ; and that some even of the Massachusetts Acts
were thought by Administration to be improvements of
that Government, viz : those altering the appointment of
Counsellors, the choice of Jurymen, and the forbidding of
Town-meetings. I replied, that we having assisted in the
conquest of Canada, at a great expense of blood and trea-
sure, had some right to be considered in the settlement of
it: that the establishing an arbitrary Government on the
back of our settlements might be dangerous to us all ; and
that loving liberty ourselves, we wisbed it to be extended
among mankind, and to have no foundation for future
slavery laid in America. That as to amending the Massa-
chusetts Government, though it might be shown that every
one of these pretended amendments were real mischiefs,
yet that Charters being compacts between two parties, the
King and the People, no alteration could be made in them,
even for the better, but by the consent of both parties.
That the Parliament's claim and exercise of a power to
alter our Charters, which had always been deemed inviola-
ble but for forfeiture, and to alter laws made in pursuance
of these Charters which had received the Royal approba-
tion, and thenceforth deemed fixed and unchangeable but
by the powers that made them, had rendered all our Con-
stitutions uncertain, and set us quite afloat : that as by
claiming a right to tax us ad libitum, they deprived us of
all property, so by this claim of altering our Laws and
Charters at will, they deprived us of all privilege and right
whatever, but what we should hold at their pleasure : that
this was a situation we could not be in, and must risk
life and every thing rather than submit to it. So this
article remained.

The twelfth article I explained, by acquainting the gen-
tlemen with the former situation of the Judges in most
Colonies, viz : that they were appointed by the Crown,
and paid by the Assemblies: that the appointment being
during the pleasure of the Crown, the salary had been
during the pleasure of the Assembly : that when it has
been urged against the Assemblies, that their making
Judges dependant on them for their salaries, was aiming
at an undue influence over the Courts of Justice, the As-
semblies usually replied, that making them dependant on
the Crown for continuance in their places, was also retain-
in^ an undue influence over those Courts ; and that one

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188

undue influence was a proper balance for the other ; but
that whenever the Crown would consent to Acts making
the Judges during good behaviour, the Assemblies would
at the same time grant their salaries to be permanent
during their continuance in oiiice. This the Crown has,
however, constantly refused : and this equitable oiler is now
again here proposed ; the Colonies not being able to con-
ceive why their Judges should not be rendered as inde-
pendent as ti)ose in England: that, on the contrary, the
Crown now claimed to make the Judges in the Colonies
dependant on its favour for both place and salary, both to
be continued at its pleasure : this the Colonies must oppose
as inequitable, as putting both the weights into one of the
scales of justice : if, therefore, the Crown does not choose
to commission the Judges during good behaviour, with
equally permanent salaries, the alternative proposed, that
the salaries continue to be paid during the pleasure of the
Assemblies as heretofore. The gentlemen allowed this
article to be reasonable.

The thirteenth was objected to, as nothing was generally
thought more reasonable here, than that the King should
pay his own Governour, in order to render him independ-
ent of the people, who otherwise might aim at influencing
him against his duty, by occasionally withholding his salary.
To this 1 answered, that Governours sent to the Colonies
were often men of no estate or principle, who came merely
to make fortunes, and had no natural regard for the Coun-
try they were to govern : that to make them quite inde-
pendent of the people, was to make them careless of their
conduct, whether it was beneficial or mischievous to the
publick, and giving a loose to their rapacious and oppres-
sive dispositions: that the influence supposed could never
extend to operate any thing prejudicial to the King's ser-
vice, or the interest of Britain : since the Governour was
bound by a set of particular instructions, which he had
given surety to observe ; and all the laws he assented to
were subject to be repealed by the Crown if found im-
proper : that the payment of the salaries by the people
was more satisfactory to them, as it was productive of a
good understanding, and mutual good offices between Go-
vernour and governed, and therefore the innovation lately
made in that respect at Boston and New-York had in my
opinion better be laid aside. So this article was suffered
to remain.

But the fourteenth was thought totally inadmissible.
The monopoly of the American Commerce could never
be given up, and the proposing it would only give offence
without answering any good purpose. 1 was therefore pre-
vailed on to strike it wholly out.

The fifteenth was readily agreed to.

The sixteenth it was thought would be of little conse-
quence, if the duties were given to the Colony Treasuries.

The seventeenth it was thought could hardly be obtain-
ed, but might be tried.

Thus having gone through the whole, I was desired to
make a fair copy for Dr. Fothergiil, who now informed us,
that having an opportunity of seeing daily Lord Dartmouth,
of whose good disposition he had a high opinion, he would
communicate the paper to him, as the sentiments of con-
siderate persons who wished the welfare of both Coun-
tries. Suppose, said Mr. Barclay, I were to show this
paper to Lord Hyde ; would there be any thing amiss in
so doing? He is a very knowing man, and though not in
the Ministry, properly speaking, he is a good deal attended
to by them. 1 have some acquaintance with him ; we con-
verse freely sometimes, and perhaps if he and I were to
talk these articles over, I should communicate to him our
conversation upon them some good might arise out of it.
Dr. Fothergiil had no objection ; and I said 1 could have
none. 1 knew Lord Hyde a little, and had an esteem for
him. I had drawn the paper at their request, and it was
now theirs to do with it what they pleased. Mr. Bar-
clay then proposed, that 1 should send the fair copy to
him, which, after making one for Dr. Fothergiil and one
for himself, he would return to me. Another question then
arose, whether 1 had any objection to their mentioning that
I had been consulted ? I said, none that related to myself;
but it was my opinion, if they wished any attention paid to
the propositions, it would be belter not to mention me; the
Ministry having, as 1 conceived, a prejudice against me
and every thing that came from me. They said on that

consideration it might be best not to mention me, and so it
was concluded. For my own part, I kept this whole pro-
ceeding a profound secret ; but 1 soon after discovered
that it had taken air by some means or other.

Being much interrupted the day following, I did not
copy and send the paper. The next morning I received
a note from Mr. Barclay, pressing to have it before twelve
o'clock. I accordingly sent it to him. Three days after I
received the following note from him :

D. Barclay presents his respects, and acquaints Dr.
Franklin, that being informed a pamphlet, entitled "A
Friendly Address," has been dispersed to the disadvantage
of America, (in particular by the Dean of Norwich,) he
desires Dr. Franklin will peruse the enclosed, just come
to hand from America ; and if he approves of it, republish
it, as D. Barclay wishes something might be properly
spread at Norwich. D. Barclay saw to-day a person with
whom he had been yesterday, (before he called on Dr.
Franklin,) and had the satisfaction of walking part of the
way with him to another noble person's house, to meet on
the business, and he told him, that he could say, that he
saw some light.

Cheapside, 11th instant.

The person so met and accompanied by Mr. Barclay, I
understood to be Lord Hyde, going either to Lord Dart-
mouth's or Lord North's, I knew not which.

In the following week arrived the proceedings of the
Congress, which had been long and anxiously expected,
both by the friends and adversaries of America.

The Petition of Congress to the King was enclosed to
me, and accompanied by the following letter from their
President, addressed to the American Agents in London,
as follows :*

The first impression made by the proceedings of the
American Congress on people in general, was greatly in
our favour. Administration seemed to be staggered, were
impatient to know whether the Petition mentioned in the
proceedings was come to my hands, and took roundabout
methods of obtaining that information, by getting a minis-
terial merchant, a known intimate of the Solicitor-Gene-
ral, to write me a letter, importing that he heard I had
received such a petition, that I was to be attended in pre-
senting it by the merchants, and begging to know the time,
that he might attend " on so important an occasion, and
give his testimony to so good a work." Before these pro-
ceedings arrived, it had been given out, that no Petition
from the Congress could be received, as they were an ille-
gal body; but the Secretary of State, after a day's perusal,
(during which a Council was held.) told us it was a decent
and proper Petition, and cheerfully undertook to present it
to His Majesty, who, he afterwards assured us, was pleased
to receive it very graciously, and to promise to lay it, as
soon as they met, before his two Houses of Parliament ;
and we had reason to believe that at that time the Petition
was intended to be made the foundation of some change
of measures ; but that purpose, if such there was, did not
long continue.

About this time I received a letter from Mr. Barclay,
then at Norwich, dated December 18th, expressing his
opinion, that it might be best to postpone taking any
further steps in the affair of procuring a meeting and pe-
tition of the Merchants, (on which we had had several
consultations,) till after the holidays, thereby to give the
proceedings of Congress more time to work upon men's
minds, adding, " I likewise consider that our superiours
will have some little time for reflection, and perhaps may
contemplate on the propriety of the Hints in their posses-
sion. By a few lines I have received from Lord Hyde, he
intimates his hearty wish that they may be productive of
what may be practicable and advantageous for the Mother
Country and the Colonies." On the 22d, Mr. Barclay
was come to Town, when I dined with him, and learned
that Lord Hyde thought the propositions too hard.

On the 21th 1 received the following note from a con-
siderable merchant in the City, viz :

Mr. William Neate presents his most respectful com-
pliments to Dr. Franklin, and as a report prevailed yester-
day evening, that all the disputes between Great Britain
and the American Colonies were, through his application
» Sco Vol. I. Fol. 929, and Fol. 934.

189

CORRESPONDENCE, PROCEEDINGS, fcc, MARCH, 1775.

190

and influence with Lord North, amicably settled, conform-
able to the wish and desire of the late Congress, W. A.
desires the favour of Dr. Franklin to inform him by a line,
j>er the bearer, whether there is any credit to be given to
the report ?

St. Mary Hill, 24th December, 1774.

My answer was to this effect, that I should be very
happy to be able to inform him that the report he had heard
had some truth in it; but I could only assure him that I
knew nothing of the matter. Such reports, however,
were confidently circulated, and had some effect in recover-
ing the Stocks, which had fallen three or four per cent.

On Christmas day, visiting Mrs. Howe, she told me as
soon as 1 went in, that her brother, Lord Howe, wished to
be acquainted with me; that he was a very good man, and
she was sure we should like each other. I said, 1 had
always heard a good character of Lord Howe, and should
be proud of the honour of being known to him. He is
just by, said she ; will you give me leave to send for him ?
Hy all means, madam, if you think proper. She rang for
a servant, wrote a note, and Lord Howe came in a few
minutes.

After some extremely polite compliments as to the gen-
eral motives for his desiring an acquaintance with me, he
said he had a particular one at this time, which was the
alarming situation of our affairs with America, which no one,
he was persuaded, understood better than myself; that it
was the opinion of some friends of his, that no man could
do more towards reconciling our differences than 1 could,
if I would undertake it ; that he was sensible I had been
very ill treated by the Ministry, but he hoped that would
not be considered by me in the present case; that he him-
self, though not in opposition, had much disapproved of
their conduct towards me ; that some of them, he was
sure, were ashamed of it, and sorry it had happened :
which he supposed must be sufficient to abate resentment
in a great and generous mind ; that if he were himself in
Administration, he should be ready to make me ample
satisfaction, which he was persuaded would one day or
other be done ; that he was unconnected with the Ministry,
except by some personal friendships, wished well however
to Government, was anxious for the general welfare of the
whole Empire, and had a particular regard for New-Eng-
land, which had shown a very endearing respect to his
family ; that he was merely an independent Member of
Parliament, desirous of doing what good he could, agree-
ably to his duty in that station ; that he therefore had wished
for an opportunity of obtaining my sentiments on the means
of reconciling our differences, which he saw must be at-
tended with the most mischievous consequences, if not
speedily accommodated ; that he hoped his zeal for the
publick welfare would, with me, excuse the impertinence
of a mere stranger, who could have otherwise no reason to
expect, or right to request me to open my mind to him
upon these topicks ; but he did conceive, that if I would
indulge him with my ideas of the means proper to bring
about a reconciliation, it might be of some use ; that per-
haps I might not be willing myself to have any direct
communication with this Ministry on this occasion ; that I
might likewise not care to have it known that 1 had any
indirect communication with them, till 1 could be well
assured of their good dispositions; that being himself upon
no ill terms with them, he thought it not impossible that
he might, by conveying my sentiments to them, and theirs
to me, he a means of bringing on a good understanding,
without committing either them or me, if his negotiation
should not succeed ; and that I might rely on his keeping
perfectly secret every thing I should wish to remain so.

Mrs. Howe here offering to withdraw, whether of herself
or from any sign from him, 1 know not, I begged she might
stay, as I should have no secret in a business of this nature
that I could not freely confide to her prudence, which was
truth; for I had never conceived a higher opinion of the
discretion and excellent understanding of any woman on so
short an acquaintance. 1 added, that though 1 had never
before the honour of being in his Lordship's company, his
manner was such as had already engaged my confidence,
and would make me perfectly easy and free in communi-
cating myself to him. 1 begged him, in the first place, to
give me credit for a sincere desire of healing the breach

between the two Countries; that I would cheerfully and
heartily do every thing in my small power to accomplish
it; but that I apprehended from the King's speech, and
from the measures talked of, as well as those already
determined on, no intention or disposition of the kind ex-
isted in the present Ministry, and therefore no accommo-
dation could be expected till we saw a change. That as to
what his Lordship mentioned of the personal injuries done
me, those done my Country were so much greater, that I
did not think the other, at this time, worth mentioning ;
that besides it was a fixed rule with me, not to mix my pri-
vate affairs with those of the publick ; that I could join with
my personal enemy in serving the publick, or, when it was
for its interest, with the publick in serving that enemy ;
these being my sentiments, his Lordship mieht be assured
that no private considerations of the kind should prevent
my being as useful in the present case as my small ability
would permit. He appeared satisfied and pleased with
these declarations, and gave it me as his sincere opinion,
that some of the Ministry were extremely well disposed to
any reasonable accommodations, preserving only the digni-
ty of Government ; and he wished me to draw up in wri-
ting some propositions containing the terms on which I
conceived a good understanding might be obtained and
established, and the mode of proceeding to accomplish it ;
which propositions, as soon as prepared, we might meet to
consider, either at his house or at mine, or where I pleased ;
but as his being seen at my house, or me at his, might he
thought occasion some speculation, it was concluded to be
best to meet at his sister's, who readily offered her house
for that purpose, and where there was a good pretence with
her family and friends for my being often seen, as it was
known that we played together at chess. 1 undeitook,
accordingly, to draw up something of the kind ; and so for
that time we parted, agreeing to meet at the same place
again on the Wednesday following.

I dined about this time, by invitation, with Governour
Pownall. There was no company but the family, and
after dinner we had a tete-a-tete. He had been in the op-
position, but was now about making his peace, in order to
come into Parliament on Ministerial interest, which I did
not then know. He told me what I had before been told
by several of Lord North's friends, that the American
measures were not the measures of that Minister, nor ap-
proved bv him ; that, on the contrary, he was well disposed
to promote a reconciliation upon any terms honourable to
Government; that I had been looked upon as the great
fomenter of the opposition in America, and as a great ad-
versary to any accommodation ; that he, Governour Poiv-
nall, had given a different account of me, and had told his
Lordship that I was certainly much misunderstood. From
the Governour's further discourse 1 collected that he wish-
ed to be employed as an Envoy or Commissioner to Ame-
rica, to settle the differences, and to have me with him;
but as I apprehended there was little likelihood that either
of us would he so employed by Government, I did not give
much attention to that part of his discourse.

I should have mentioned in its place, (but one cannot
recollect every thing in order,) that, declining at first to
draw up the propositions desired by Lord Howe, I alleged
its being unnecessary, since the Congress, in their Petition
to the King, just then received and presented through Lord
Dartmouth, had stated their grievances, and pointed out
very explicitly what would restore the ancient harmony ;
and I read a part of the Petition, to show their good dispo-
sitions, which, being very pathetically expressed, seemed
to affect both the brother and sister. Hut still 1 was de-
sired to give my ideas of the steps to be taken, in case some
of the propositions in the Petition should not be thought
admissible ; and this, as I said before, I undertook to do.

I had promised Lord Chatham to communicate to him
the first important news 1 should receive from America. I
therefore sent him the proceedings of the Congress as soon
as I received them; but a whole week passed after 1 re-
ceived the Petition before I could, as I wished to do, wait
upon him with it, in order to obtain his sentiments on the
whole; for my time was taken up in meetings with the
other Agents to consult about presenting the Petition, in
waiting three different days with them on Lord Dartmovtft,
in consulting upon and writing letters to the Speakers of
Assemblies, and other business, which did not allow me ;i

191

CORRESPONDENCE, PROCEEDINGS, &c, MARCH, 1773.

192

day to go lo Hayes. At last, on Monday, the 26th, 1 got
out. and was there about one o'clock ; he received me with
an affectionate kind of respect, that from so great a man
was extremely engaging; but the opinion he expressed of
the Congress was still more so. They had acted, he said,
with so much temper, moderation, and wisdom, that he
thought it the most honourable assembly of statesmen since
those of the ancient Greeks and Romans, in the most virtu-
ous times. That there was not, in their whole proceedings,
above one or two things he could have wished otherwise ;
perhaps but one, and that was their assertion that the keep-
ing up a Standing Army in the Colonies in time of peace,
without consent of their Legislatures, was against law; he
doubted that was not well founded, and that the law al-
luded to did not extend to the Colonies. The rest he
admired and honoured ; he thought the Petition decent,
manly, and properly expressed. He inquired much and
particularly concerning the state of America, the proba-
bility of their perseverance, the difficulties they must meet
with in adhering, for any long time, to their resolutions ; the
resources they might have to supply the deficiency of
Commerce ; to all which I gave him answers, with which
lie seemed well satisfied. He expressed a great regard
and warm affection for that Country, with hearty wishes
for their prosperity, and that Government here might soon
come to see its mistakes, and rectify them ; and intimated
that possibly he might, if his health permitted, prepare
something for its consideration, when the Parliament should
meet after the holidays, on which he should wish to have
previously my sentiments. I mentioned to him the very
hazardous state I conceived we were in, by the continu-
ance of the Army in Boston; that whatever disposition
there might be in the inhabitants to give no just cause of
offence to the Troops, or in the general to preserve order
among them, an unpremeditated, unforeseen quarrel might
happen, between perhaps a drunken porter and a soldier,
that might bring on a riot, tumult, and bloodshed, and its
consequences produce a breach impossible to be healed ;
that the Army could not possibly answer any good purpose
there, and might be infinitely mischievous ; that no accom-
modation could be properly proposed and entered into by
the Americans, while the bayonet was at their breasts ; that
to have any agreement binding, all force should be with-
drawn. His Lordship seemed to think these sentiments
had something in them that was reasonable.

x From Hayes I went to Halsted, Mr. Sargent's place,
to dine, intending thence a visit to Lord Stanhope, at
Chevening; but hearing there that his Lordship and the
family were in Town, I staid at Halsted all nijjht, and the
next morning went to Chiselhurst, to call upon Lord Cam-
den, it being in my way to Town. I met his Lordship and
family in two carriages just without his gate, going on a
visit of congratulation to Lord Chatham and his lady, on
the late marriage of their daughter to Lord Mahon, son of
Lord Stanhope. They were to be back to dinner; so I
agreed to go in, stay dinner, and spend the evening there,
and not return to Town till next morning. We had that
afternoon and evening a great deal of conversation on
American affairs, concerning which he was very inquisi-
tive, and I gave him the best information in my power. I
was charmed with his generous and noble sentiments, and
had the great pleasure of hearing his full approbation of the
proceedings of the Congress, the Petition, &tc, &,c, of
which, at his request, I afterwards sent him a copy. He
seemed anxious that the Americans should continue to act
with the same temper, coolness, and wisdom, with which
they had hitherto proceeded in most of their publick assem-
blies, in which case he did not doubt they would succeed
in establishing their rights, and obtain a solid and durable
agreement with the Mother Country ; of the necessity and
'^rt-at importance of which agreement, he seemed to have
the strongest impressions.

I returned to Town the next morning, in time to meet at
the hour appointed by Lord Howe. I apologized for my
not being ready with the paper 1 had promised, by my
having been kept longer than 1 intended in the Country.
We had, however, a good deal of conversation on the sub-
ject, and his Lordship told me he could now assure me of
a certainty, that there was a sincere disposition in Lord
.\orth and Lord Dartmouth to accommodate the differ-
ences with America, and to listen favourably to any propo-

sitions that might have a probable tendency to answer that
salutary purpose. He then asked me wiiat 1 thought of
sending some person or persons over, commissioned to in-
quire into the grievances of America upon the spot; con-
verse with the leading people, and endeavour with them to
agree upon some means of composing our differences. 1
said that a person of rank and dignity, who had a charac-
ter of candour, integrity, and wisdom, might possibly, if
employed in that service, be of great use. He seemed to
be of the same opinion, and that whoever was employed
should go with a hearty desire of promoting a sincere re-
conciliation, on the foundation of mutual interests and mu-
tual good-will ; that he should endeavour not only to remove
their prejudices against Government, but equally the pre-
judices of Government against them, and bring on a perfect
good understanding, Sic. Mrs. Howe said, I wish, brother,
you were to be sent thither on such a service ; I should
like that much better than General Howe's going to com-
mand the Army there. 1 think, madam, said I, they ought
to provide for General Howe some more honourable em-
ployment. Lord Howe here took out of his pocket a
paper, and offering it to me said, smiling, if it is not an un-
fair question, may I ask whether you know any thing of
this paper? Upon looking at it, I saw it was a copy, in
David Barclay's hand, of the Hints before recited, and said
that I had seen it ; adding, a little after, that since I per-
ceived his Lordship was acquainted with a transaction, my
concern in which I had understood was to have been kept
a secret, 1 should make no difficulty in owning to him that
1 had been consulted on the subject, and had drawn up
that paper. He said he was rather sorry to find that the
sentiments expressed in it were mine, as it gave him less
hopes of promoting, by my assistance, the wished-for re-
conciliation, since he had reason to think there was no
likelihood of the admission of these propositions. He
hoped, however, that I would reconsider the subject, and
form some plan that would be acceptable here. He expa-
tiated on the infinite service it would be to the Nation, and
the great merit in being instrumental in so good a work :
that he should not think of influencing me by any selfish
motive, but certainly I might with reason expect any re-
ward in the power of Government to bestow. This to me
was what the French vulgarly call spitting in the soup.
However, 1 promised to draw some sketch of a plan at his
request, though I much doubted, I said, whether it would
be thought preferable to that he had in his hand. But he
was willing to hope that it would, and as lie considered my
situation, that I had friends here and constituents in Ame-
rica to keep well with, that I might possibly propose
something improper to be seen in my handwriting; there-
fore, it would be better to send it to Mrs. Howe, who
would copy it, send the copy to him to be communicated
to the Ministry, and return me the original. This 1 agreed
to, though I did not apprehend the inconvenience he men-
tioned. In general I liked much his manner, and found
myself disposed to place great confidence in him on occa-
sion, but in this particular the secrecy he proposed seemed
not of much importance.

In a day or two I sent the following paper, enclosed in
a cover, directed to the honourable Mrs. Hoive :

" It is supposed to be the wish on both sides, not merely
to put a stop to the mischief at present threatening the
general welfare, but to cement a cordial union, and remove
not only every real grievance, but every cause of jealousy
and suspicion.

" With this view the first thing necessary is, to know
what is, by the different parties in the dispute, thought es-
sentially necessary for the obtaining such an union.

" The American Congress, in their Petition to the King,
have been explicit, declaring that, by a repeal of the op-
pressive Acts therein complained of, ' the harmony between
Great Britain and her Colonies, so necessary to the hap-
piness of both, and so ardently desired of them, will, with
the usual intercourse, be immediately restored.'

" If it has been thought reasonable here to expect that,
previous to an alteration of measures, the Colonies should
make some declaration respecting their future conduct,
they have also done that, by adding, ' that when the causes
of their apprehensions are removed, their future conduct
will prove them not unworthy of the regard they have been
accustomed in their happier days to enjoy.'

193

CORRESPONDENCE, PROCEEDINGS, See, MARCH, 1775.

194

" For their sincerity in these declarations, they solemnly
call to witness the Searcher of all hearts.

" If Britain can have any reliance on these declarations,
(and perhaps none to be extorted by force can be more
relied on than these which are thus freely made,) she may,
without hazard to herself, try the expedient proposed,
since, if it fails, she has it in her power at any time to re-
sume her present measures.

" It is, then, proposed,

" That Britain should show some confidence in these
declarations, by repealing all the laws or parts of laws that
are requested to be repealed in the Petition of the Con-
gress to the King.

"And that at the same time orders should be given to
withdraw the Fleet from Boston, and remove all the Troops
to Quebeck or the Florida*, that the Colonies may be left
at liberty in their future stipulations.

" That this may, for the honour of Britain, appear not
the effect of any apprehension from the measures entered
into and recommended to the people by the Congress, but
from good will, and a change of disposition towards the
Colonies, with a sincere desire of reconciliation ; let some
of their other grievances, which, in their Petition, they
have left to the magnanimity and justice of the King and
Parliament, be at the same time removed, such as those
relating to the payment of Governours' and Judges' sala-
ries, and the instructions for dissolving Assemblies, &,c, with
the declarations concerning the Statute of Henry VIII.

" And to give the Colonies an immediate opportunity of
demonstrating the reality of their professions, let their pro-
posed ensuing Congress be authorized by Government, (as
was that held at Albany in 1754,) and a person of weight
and dignity of character be appointed to preside at it on
behalf of the Crown.

" And then let requisition be made to the Congress, of
such points as Government wishes to obtain, for its future
security, for aids, for the advantage of general Commerce,
for reparation to the India Company, &c, &c.

" A generous confidence thus placed in the Colonies,
will give ground to the friends of Government there, in
their endeavours to procure from America every reasonable
concession or engagement, and every substantial aid that
can fairly be desired."

On the Saturday evening I saw Mrs. Howe, who in-
formed me she had transcribed and sent the paper to Lord
Howe in the country, and she returned me the original.
On the following Tuesday, January 3d, I received a note
from her, (enclosing a letter she had received from Lord
Howe the last night,) which follows:

" Mrs. Howe's compliments to Dr. Franklin; she en-
closes him a letter she received last night, and returns him
many thanks for his very obliging present,* which has
already given her great entertainment. If the Doctor has
any spare time for chess, she will be exceedingly glad to
see him any morning this week, and as often as will be
agreeable to him, and rejoices in having so good an ex-
cuse for asking the favour of his company.

"Tuesday."

[Letter enclosed in the foregoing.]

Porter's Lodge, January 2d, 1775.

I have received your packet; and it is with much con-
cern that I collect, from sentiments of such authority as
those of our worthy friend, that the desired accommodation
threatens to be attended with much greater difficulty than
I had flattered myself, in the progress of our intercourse,
there would be reason to apprehend.

1 shall forward the propositions as intended. Not desir-
ous of trespassing further on our friend's indulgence ; but
returning sentiments of regard, which his candid and obliging
attention to my troublesome inquiries, will render ever per-
manent in the memory of your affectionate, &tc.

I ought to make excuses likewise to you. Howe.

Hon. Mrs. Howe, Grafton Street.

His Lordship had, in his last conversation with me, ac-
knowledged a communication between him and the Minis-
try, to whom he wished to make my sentiments known.
In this letter from the country he owns the receipt of them,
and mentions his intentions of forwarding them, that is, as

• His philosophical writings.

Fourth Series. — Vol. ii.

I understood it, to the Ministers ; but expresses his appre-
hensions that such propositions were not likely to produce
any good effect. Some time after, perhaps a week, I
received a note from Mrs. Howe, desiring to see me. I
waited upon her immediately, when she showed me a
letter from her brother, of which, having no copy, I can
only give from the best of my recollection the purport of
it, which I think was this : that he desired to know from
their friend, meaning me, through her means, whether it
might not be expected that, if that friend would engage for
the payment of the Tea as a preliminary, relying on a
promised redress of their grievances on future petitions
from their Assembly, they would approve of his making
such engagement ; and whether the proposition in the
former paper, (the Hints,) relating to aids, was still in
contemplation of the author. As Mrs. Howe proposed
sending to her brother that evening, I wrote immediately
the following answer, which she transcribed and forwarded :

" The proposition in the former paper relating to aids,
is still in contemplation of the author, and, as he thinks, is
included in the last article of the present paper.

" The people of America, conceiving that Parliament
has no right to tax them, and that, therefore, all that has
been extorted from them by the operation of the Duty
Acts, with the assistance of an armed force, preceding the
destruction of the Tea, is so much injury, which ought, in
order of time, to be. first repaired, before a demand on the
Tea account can be justly made of them ; are not, he thinks,
likely to approve of the measure proposed, and pay in the
first place the value demanded, especially as twenty times
as much injury has since been done them by blocking
up their Port ; and their Castle also seized before by the
Crown, has not been restored, nor any satisfaction offered
them for the same."

At the meeting of Parliament, after the holidays, which
was on the 19th of January, (1775,) Lord Howe returned
to town, when we had another meeting, at which he lament-
ed that my propositions were not such as probably could
be accepted ; intimated that it was thought I had powers
or instructions from the Congress to make concessions on
occasion that would be more satisfactory. I disclaimed
the having any of any kind but what related to the pre-
senting of their Petition. We talked over all the particu-
lars in my paper, which I supported with reasons ; and
finally said, that if what I had proposed would not do, I
should be glad to hear what would do; I wished to see
some propositions from the Ministers themselves. His
Lordship was not, he said, as yet fully acquainted with
their sentiments, but should learn more in a few days. It
was, however, some weeks before I heard any thing further
from him.

In the meanwhile, Mr. Barclay and I were frequently
together on the affair of preparing the Merchants' Petition,
which took up so much of his time that he could not con-
veniently see Lord Hyde; so he had no information to
give me concerning the Hints, and I wondered I heard
nothing of them from Dr. Fothergill. At length, however,
but I cannot recollect about what time, the Doctor called
on me, and told me he had communicated them, and with
them had verbally given my arguments in support of them,
to Lord Dartmouth, who, after consideration, had told him
some of them appeared reasonable, but others were inad-
missible or impracticable : that having occasion to see fre-
quently the Speaker,* he had also communicated them to
him, as he found him very anxious for a reconciliation :
that the Speaker had said it would be very humiliating to
Britain to be obliged to submit to such terms : but the
Doctor told him she had been unjust ; and ought to bear
the consequences, and alter her conduct ; that the pill might
be bitter, but it would be salutary, and must be swallowed :
that these were the sentiments of impartial men, after tho-
rough consideration and full information of all circumstances,
and that sooner or later these or similar measures must be
followed, or the Empire would be divided and ruined : the
Doctor, on the whole, hoped some good would be effected
by our endeavours.

On the 19th of January, I received a card from Lord
Stanhope, acquainting me, that Lord Chatham having a
motion to make on the morrow in the House of Lords, con-

•Sir Fletcher Norton.

13

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196

ceniiii ', greatly desired that 1 might be in the

House, into which Lord & would endeavour to procure
me admittance. At this time it was a rule of the House
that no person could introduce more than one friend. The
next morning, his Lordship let me know by another card,
that if I attended at two o'clock in the lobby, Lord Chat-
ham would be there about that time, and would himself
introduce me. I attended and met him there accordingly .
On my mentioning to him what Lord Stanhope had writ-
ten to me, he said, " Certainly ; and I shall do it with the
more pleasure, as 1 am sure your being present at this day's
debate will be of more service to America than mine;"'
and so taking me by the arm, was leading me along the
passage to the door that enters near the throne, when one
of the Doorkeepers followed and acquainted him that, by
the order, none were to be carried in at that door but the
eldest sons or brothers of Peers; on which he limped back
with me to the door near the bar, where were standing a
number of gentlemen waiting for the Peers who were to
introduce them, and some Peers waiting for friends they
expected to introduce ; among whom, he delivered me to
the Doorkeepers, saying aloud, this is Doctor Franklin,
whom 1 would have admitted into the House ; when they
readily opened the door for me accordingly. As it had
not been publickly known that there was any communica-
tion between his Lordship and me, this I found occasioned
some speculation. His appearance in the House, I observ-
ed, caused a kind of bustle among the officers, who were
hurried in sending messengers for Members, I suppose
those in connection with the Ministry, something of im-
portance being expected when that great man appears ; it
being but seldom that his infirmities permit his attendance.
1 had great satisfaction in hearing his motion and the debate
upon it, which I shall not attempt to give here an account
of, as you may find a better in the papers of the time. It
was his motion for withdrawing the Troops from Boston,
as the first step towards an accommodation. The day fol-
lowing, 1 received a note from Lord Stanhope, expressing
that, " at the desire of Lord Chatham, was sent me enclosed,
the motion be made in the House of Lords, that I might be
possessed of it in the most authentick manner, by the com-
munication of the individual paper which was read to the
House by the mover himself." I sent copies of this mo-
tion to America, and was the more pleased with it, as I
conceived it had partly taken its rise from a hint 1 had
given his Lordship in a former conversation. It follows in
these words :

Lord Chatham's Motion, January 20, 1775.

" That an humble Address be presented to His Majesty,
most humbly to advise and beseech His Majesty, that, in
order to open the way towards a happy settlement of the
dangerous troubles in America, by beginning to allay fer-
ments and soften animosities there ; and above all, for pre-
venting in the mean time any sudden and fatal catastrophe
at Boston, now suffering under daily irritation of an Army
before their eyes, posted in their Town ; it may graciously
please His Majesty, that immediate orders may be despatch-
ed to General Gage, for removing His Majesty's Forces
from the Town of Boston, as soon as the rigour of the sea-
son and other circumstances, indispensable to the safety and
accommodation of the said Troops, may render the same
practicable."

I was quite charmed with Lord Chatham's speech in
support of his motion. He impressed me with the highest
idea of him as a great and most able statesman. Lord
Camden, another wonderfully good speaker and close rea-
soner, joined him in the same argument, as did several
other Lords, who spoke excellently well ; but all availed
no more than the whistling of the winds. This motion was
rejected. Sixteen Scotch Peers, and twenty-four Bishops,
with all the Lords in possession or expectation of places,
when they vote together unanimously, as they generally
do for Ministerial measures, make a dead majority, that
renders all debating ridiculous in itself, since it can answer
no end. Full of the high esteem I had imbibed for Lord
Chatham, I wrote back to Lord Stanhope the following
note, viz :

Dr. Franklin presents his best respects to Lord Stan-
hope, with many thanks to his Lordship aud Lord Chat-

ham, for the communication of so authentick a copy of the
motion. Dr. F. is filled with admiration of that truly great
man. He has seen in the course of his life, sometimes
eloquence without wisdom, and often wisdom without elo-
quence ; in the present instance he sees both united, and
both, as he thinks, in the highest degree possible.

(rivin Street, Jan. 23, 1775.

As in the course of the debate, some Lords in the Ad-
ministration had observed, that it was common and easy to
censure their measures, but those who did so proposed
nothing better ; Lord Chatham mentioned that he should
not be one of those idle censurers, that he had thought
long and closely upon the subject, and proposed soon to
lay before their Ix>rdships the result of his meditation, in a
plan for healing our differences, and restoring peace to the
Empire, to which his present motion was preparatory: I
much desired to know what his plan was, and intended
waiting on him to see if he would communicate it to me ;
but he went the next morning to Hayes, and 1 was so much
taken up with daily business and company, that I could
not easily get out to him. A few days after, however,
Lord Mahon called on me, and told me Lord Chatham
was very desirous of seeing me ; when I promised to be
with him the Friday following, several engagements pre-
vented my going sooner. On Friday, the 27th, I took a
post-chaise about 9 o'clock, and got to Hayes about eleven,
but my attention being engaged in reading a new pamph-
let, the postboy drove me a mile or two beyond the gate.
His Lordship being out on an airing in his chariot, had
met me before I reached Hayes, unobserved by me, turn-
ed and followed me, and not finding me there concluded,
as he had seen me reading, that I had passed by mistake,
and sent a servant after me. He expressed great pleasure
at my coming, and acquainted me, in a long conversation,
with the outlines of his plan, parts of which he read to me.
He said he had communicated it only to Lord Camden,
whose advice he much relied on, particularly in the law
part ; and that he would, as soon as he could get it tran-
scribed, put it into my hands for my opinion and advice,
but should show it to no other person before he presented
it to the House ; and he requested me to make no mention
of it, otherwise parts might be misunderstood and blown
up beforehand, and others perhaps adopted and produced
by Ministers as their own. I promised the closest secrecy,
and kept my word ; not even mentioning to any one that
I had seen him. I dined with him, his family only present,
and returned to Town in the evening.

On the Sunday following, being the 29th, his Lordship
came to Town, and called upon me in Craven Street. He
brought with him his plan transcribed, in the form of an
Act of Parliament, which he put into my hands, request-
ing me to consider it carefully, and communicate to him
such remarks upon it as should occur to me. His reason
for desiring to give me that trouble was, as he was pleased
to say, that he knew no man so thoroughly acquainted with
the subject, or so capable of giving advice upon it ; that he
thought the errours of Ministers in American Affairs had
been often owing to their not obtaining the best informa-
tion : that, therefore, though he had considered the business
thoroughly in all its parts, he was not so confident of his
own judgment, but that he came to set it right by mine, as
men set their watches by a regulator. He had not deter-
mined when he should produce it in the House of Lords ;
but in the course of our conversation, considering the pre-
carious situation of his health, and that if presenting it was
delayed, some intelligence might arrive which would make
it seem less seasonable, or in all parts not so proper ; or the
Ministry might engage in different measures, and then say,
if you had produced your plan sooner, we might have
attended to it ; he concluded to offer it the Wednesday fol-
lowing, and, therefore, wished to see me upon it the pre-
ceding Tuesday, when he would again call upon me, unless
I could conveniently come to Hayes. I chose the latter,
in respect to his Lordship, and because there was less like-
lihood of interruptions ; and I promised to be with him early,
that we might have more time. He staid with me near
two hours, his equipage, awaiting at the door ; and being
there while people were coming from church, it was much
taken notice of and talked of, as at that time was ewry
little circumstance that men thought might possibly any

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198

way affect American affairs. Such a visit from so great a
man, on so important a business, flattered not a little my
vanity ; and the honour of it gave me the more pleasure,
as it happened on the very day twelve months that the
Ministry had taken so much pains to disgrace me before
the Privy Council.

I applied myself immediately to the reading and consid-
ering the plan, of which, when it was afterwards published,
1 sent you a copy, and therefore need not insert it here.
I put down upon paper, as I went along, some short me-
morandums for my future discourse with him upon it, which
follow, that you may, if you please, compare them with
the plan ; and if you do so, you will see their drift and
purpose, which otherwise would make me much writing to
explain.

Tuesday, January 31, 1775.

Notes for discourse with Lord Chatham on his plan :

Voluntary grants and forced taxes, not to be expected
of the same people at the same time.

Permanent revenue will be objected to ; would not a tem-
porary agreement be best, suppose for one hundred years?

Does the whole of the rights claimed in the Petition of
Rights relate to England only ?

The American Naturalization Act gives all the rights of
natural born subjects to foreigners residing there seven
years. Can it be supposed that the natives there have
them not ?

If the King should raise Armies in America, would Bri-
tain like their being brought hither? as the King might
bring them when he pleased.

An Act of Parliament requires the Colonies to furnish
sundry articles of provision and accommodation to Troops
quartered among them ; this may be made very burdensome
to Colonies that are out of favour.

If a permanent revenue, why not the same privileges in
trade with Scotland?

Should not the lands conquered by Britain and the Co-
lonies in conjunction, be given them (reserving a quitrent)
whence they might form funds to enable them to pay.

Instructions about Agents to be withdrawn.

Grants to he for three years, at the end of which a new
Congress — and so from three to three years.

Congress to have the geueral defence of the frontiers,
making and regulating new settlements.

Protection mutual.

We go into all your wars.

Our settlements cost you nothing..

Take the plan of union.

" Defence, extension, and prosperity of — The late Ca-
nada Act prevents their extension, and may check their
prosperity.

Laws should be secure as well as Charters.

Perhaps if the legislative power of Parliament is owned
in the Colonies, they may make a law to forbid the meet-
ing of any Congress, &tc.

1 was at Hayes early on Tuesday, agreeably to my pro-
mise, when we entered into consideration of the plan ; but
though I staid near four hours, his Lordship, in the manner
of, I think, all eloquent persons, was so full and diffuse in
supporting every particular I questioned, that there was not
time to go through half my memorandums ; he is not easily
interrupted, and I had such pleasure in hearing him, that I
found little inclination to interrupt him ; therefore, consider-
ing that neither of us had much expectation that the plan
would be adopted entirely as it stood ; that in the course of
its consideration, if it should be received, proper alterations
might be introduced ; that before it would be settled, Ame-
rica should have opportunity to make her objections and
propositions of amendment ; that to have it received at all
here, it must seem to comply a little with some of the pre-
vailing prejudices of the Legislature ; that if it was not so
perfect as might be wished, it would at least serve as a basis
for treaty, and in the mean time prevent mischiefs, and that
as his Lordship had determined to oft'er it the next day,
there was not time to make changes and another fair copy.
I therefore ceased my querying; and though afterwards
many people were pleased to do me the honour of sup-
ponog I had a considerable share in composing it, I assure
you, that the addition of a single word only was made at
my instance, viz: " Constitutions" after "Charters;'' for

my filling up at his request a blank with the titles of Acts
proper to be repealed, which I took from the proceedings
of the Congress, was no more than might have been done
by any copying clerk.

On Wednesday, Lord Stanhope, at Lord Chatham's re-
quest, called upon me, and carried me down to the House
of Lords, which was soon very full. Lord Chatham, in a
most excellent speech, introduced, explained, and supported
his plan. When he sat down, Lord Dartmouth rose, and
very properly said, it contained matter of such weight and
magnitude as to require much consideration, and he there-
fore hoped the noble Earl did not expect their Lordships
to decide upon it by an immediate vote, but would be wil-
ling it should lie upon the table for consideration. Lord
Chatham answered readily, that he expected nothing more.
But Ixird Sanduich rose, and in a petulant vehement
speech, opposed its being received at all, and gave his opi-
nion, that it ought to be immediately rejected with the con-
tempt it deserved ; that he could never believe it to be the
production of any British Peer ; that it appeared to him
rather the work of some American; and, turning his face
towards me, who was leaning on the bar, said, he fancied
he had in his eye the person who drew it up, one of the
bitterest and most mischievous enemies this Country had
ever known. This drew the eyes of many Lords upon me :
but as I had no inducement to take it to myself, I kept my
countenance as immoveable as if my features had been
made of wood. Then several other Lords of the Admi-
nistration gave their sentiments also for rejecting it, of which
opinion also was strongly the wise Lord Hillsborough; but
the Dukes of Richmond and Manchester, Lord Shelburne,
Lord Camden, Lord Temple, Lord Lyttleton and others,
were for receiving it, some through approbation, and others
for the character and dignity of the House. One Lord
mentioning with applause the candid proposal of one of the
ministers, Lord Dartmouth, his Lordship rose again, and
said, that having since heard the opinions of so many Lords
against receiving it to tie upon the table for consideration,
he had altered his mind, could not accept the praise offered
him, for a candour of which he was now ashamed, and
should therefore give his voice for rejecting the plan imme-
diately. I am the more particular in this, as it is a trait
of that Nobleman's character, who, from his office, is sup-
posed to have so great a share in American affairs, but who
has in reality no will or judgment of his own, being, with
dispositions for the best measures, easily prevailed with to
join in the worst. Lord Chatham, in his reply to Lord
Sandwich, took notice of his illiberal insinuation, that the
plan was not the person's who proposed it : declared that
it was entirely his own, a declaration he thought himself the
more obliged to make, as many of their Lordships appeared
to have so mean an opinion of it ; for if it was so weak or
so bad a thing, it was proper in him to take care that no
other person should unjustly share in the censure it de-
served. That it had been heretofore reckoned his vice not
to be apt to take advice ; but he made no scruple to de-
clare, that if he were the first Minister of this Country, and
had the care of settling this momentous business, he should
not be ashamed of publickly calling to his assistance a per-
son so perfectly acquainted with the whole of American
affairs as the gentleman alluded to, and so injuriously re-
flected on ; one, he was pleased to say, whom all Europe
held in high estimation, for his knowledge and wisdom, and
ranked with our Boyles and Newtons, who was an honour,
not to the English Nation only, but to human nature ! I
found it harder to stand this extravagant compliment, than
the preceding equally extravagant abuse, but kept as well
as I could an unconcerned countenance, as not conceiving
it to relate to me.

To hear so many of these hereditary Legislators de-
claiming so vehemently against, not the adopting merely,
but even the consideration of a proposal so important in its
nature, offered by a person of so weighty a character, one
of the first Statesmen of the age, who had taken up this
Country when in the lowest despondency, and conducted
it to victory and glory, through a war with two of the
mightiest Kingdoms in Europe ; to hear them censuring his
plan, not only for their own misunderstandings of what was
in it, but for their imaginations of what was not in it, which
they would not give themselves an opportunity of rectify-
ing by a second reading ; to perceive the total ignorance of

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200

tbe subject in some, the prejudice and passion of others,
and the wilful perversion of plain truth in several of the
Ministers ; and, upon the whole, to see it so ignoininiously
rejected by so great a majority, and so hastily too, in bread)
of all decency, and prudent regard to the character and
dignity of their body, as a third part of the National Le-
gislature, gave me an exceeding mean opinion ol their abi-
lities, and made their claim of sovereignty over three
millions of virtuous sensible people in America seem the
greatest of absurdities, since they appeared to have scarce
discretion enough to govern a herd of swine. Hereditary
Legislators! thought I. There would be more propriety,
because less hazard of mischief, in having (as in some Uni-
versity of Germany) hereditary professors of mathematicks f
But this was a hasty reflection, for the elected House of
Commons is no better, nor ever will be while the electors
receive money for their votes, and pay money wherewith
Ministers may bribe their Representatives when chosen.

After this proceeding 1 expected to hear no more of any
negotiation for settling our difference amicably ; yet in a
day or two, 1 had a note from Mr. Barclay, requesting a
meeting at Dr. Fothergill's, the 4th of February in the
evening. I attended accordingly, and was surprised by
being told that a very good disposition appeared in Adminis-
tration ; that the Hints had been considered, and several
of them thought reasonable, and that others might be ad-
mitted with small amendments. The good Doctor, with his
usual philanthropy, expatiated on the miseries of war ; that
even a bad peace was preferable to the most successful
war ; that America was growing in strength, and whatever
she might be obliged to submit to at present, she would in
a few years be in a condition to make her own terms. Mr.
Barclay hinted how much it was in my power to promote
an agreement ; bow much it would be to my honour to ef-
fect it, and that I might expect, not only restoration of my
old place, but almost any other I could wish for, he. I
need not tell you, who know me so well, how improper and
disgusting this language was to me. The Doctor's was
more suitable. Him I answered, that we did not wish for
war, and desired nothing but what was reasonable and
necessary for our security and well-being. To Mr. Barclay
I replied, that the Ministry, I was sure, would rather give
me a place in a cart to Tyburn, than any other place what-
ever. And to both, that 1 sincerely wished to be service-
able ; that I needed no other inducement than to be shown
how I might be so ; but saw they imagined more to be in
my power than really was. I was then told again that
conferences had been held upon the Hints ; and the paper
being produced was read, that I might hear tbe observa-
tions that had been made upon them separately, which
were as follows:

I. The first Article was approved.

91. The second agreed to, so far as related to the repeal
of the Tea Act. But repayment of the Duties that had
been collected, was refused.

3. The third not approved, as it implied a deficiency of
power in the Parliament that made those Acts.

4. Tbe fourth approved.

5. The fifth agreed to, but with a reserve, that no change
prejudicial to Britain was to be expected.

6. The sixth agreed to, so far as related to the appro-
priation of the Duties : but the appointment of the Officers
and their salaries to remain as at present.

7 . The seventh, relating to aids in time of peace, agreed
to.

8. The eighth, relating to the Troops, was inadmissible.

9. The ninth could be agreed to, with this difference,
that no proportion should be observed with regard to pre-
ceding Taxes, but each Colony should give at pleasure.

10. The tenth agreed to, as to the restitution of Castle
William; but the restriction on the Crown in building
fortresses refused.

II. The eleventh refused absolutely, except as to the
Boston Port Bill, which would be repealed; and the
Quebeck Act might be so far amended, as to reduce that
Province to its ancient limits. The other Massachusetts
Acts, being real amendments of their Constitution, must
for that reason be continued, as well as to be a standing
example of the power of Parliament.

12. The twelfth agreed to, that the Judges should be
appointed during good behaviour, on the Assemblies pro-

viding permanent salaries, such as the Crown should ap-
prove of.

13. The thirteenth agreed to, provided the Assemblies
make provision as in the preceding article.

15. The fifteenth agreed to.

16. The sixteenth agreed to, supposing the Duties paid
to the Colony Treasuries.

17. The seventeenth inadmissible.

We had not at this time a great deal of conversation
upon these points, for I shortened it by observing, that
while the Parliament claimed and exercised a power of
altering our Constitutions at pleasure, there could be no
agreement ; for we were rendered unsafe in every privilege
we had a right to, and were secure in nothing. And it
being hinted how necessary an agreement was for America,
since it was so easy for Britain to burn all our sea-port
Towns, I grew warm, said that the chief part of my little
property consisted of houses in those Towns; that they
might make bonfires of them whenever they pleased ; that
the fear of losing them would never alter my resolution to
resist to the last that claim of Parliament, and that it be-
hooved this Country to take care what mischief it did us,
for that sooner or later it would certainly be obliged to
make good all damages with interest ! The Doctor smiled,
as I thought, with some approbation of my discourse, pas-
sionate as it was, and said he would certainly repeat it
to-morrow to Lord Dartmouth.

In the discourse concerning the Hints, Mr. Barclay
happened to mention, that going to Lord Hyde's, he found
Lord Howe with him, and that Lord Hyde had said to
him, "you may speak any thing before Lord Howe, that
you have to say to me, for he is a friend in whom I con-
fide ;" upon which he accordingly had spoken with the
same freedom as usual. By this I collected how Lord
Howe came by the paper of Hints which he had shown
me : and it being mentioned as a measure thought of, to
send over a Commissioner with powers to inquire into
grievances and give redress on certain conditions, but that
it was difficult to find a proper person ; 1 said, why not
Lord Hyde! he is a man of prudence and temper; a
person of dignity, and I should think very suitable for such
an employment : or, if he would not go, there is the other
person you just mentioned, Lord Howe, who would, in
my opinion, do excellently well. This passed as mere con-
versation, and we patted.

Lord Chatham's rejected plan being printed for the pub-
lick judgment, I received six copies from Lord Mahon,
his son-in-law, which I sent to different persons in America.

A week and more passed, in which 1 heard nothing
further of the negotiation, and my time was much taken
up among the Members of Parliament, when Mr. Barclay
sent me a note to say, that he was indisposed, but desirous
of seeing me, and should be glad if 1 would call on him.
I waited upon him the next morning, when he told me that
he had seen Lord Hyde, and had some further discourse
with him on the Articles ; that he thought himself now
fully possessed of what would do in this business ; that he
therefore wished another meeting with me and Doctor
Fothergill, when he would endeavour to bring prepared a
draught conformable chiefly to what had been proposed and
conceded on both sides, with some propositions of his own.
1 readily agreed to the meeting, which was to be on Thurs-
day evening, February 16lh.

We met accordingly, when Mr. Barclay produced the
following paper, viz:

A Plan, which it is believed would produce a permanent
union between Great Britain and her Colonies.

1. The Tea destroyed to be paid for ; and, in order that
no time may be lost to begin the desirable work of conci-
liation, it is proposed that the Agent or Agents, in a peti-
tion to the King, should engage that the Tea destroyed
shall be paid for, and in consequence of that engagement,
a Commissioner to have authority, by a clause in an Act of
Parliament, to open the port (by a suspension of the Boston
Port Act) when that engagement shall be complied with.

2d. The Tea-Duty Act to be repealed, as well for tbe
advantage of Great Britain as the Colonies.

3d. Castle William to be restored to the Province of
the Massachusetts-Bay, as formerly, before it was delivered
up by Governour Hutchinson.

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CORRESPONDENCE, PROCEEDINGS, &c, MARCH, 1775.

202

4th. As it is believed that the commencement of conci-
liatory measures will in a considerable degree quiet the
minds of the subjects in America, it is proposed that the
inhabitants of the Province of the Massachusetts- Bay should
petition the King, and state their objections to the said
Act.* And it is to be understood that the said Act shall
be repealed. Interim, the Commissioner to have power
to suspend the Act, in order to enable the inhabitants to
petition.

5th. The several Provinces who may think themselves
aggrieved by the Quebcck Bill, to petition in their legisla-
tive capacities ; and it is to be understood that so far of the
Act as extends the limits of Quebeck beyond its ancient
bounds, is to be repealed.

6th. The Act of Henry VIII. to be formally disclaimed
by Parliament.

7th. In time of peace the Americans to raise within their
respective Provinces, by Acts of their own Legislatures, a
certain sum or sums, such as may be thought necessary for
a Peace Establishment, to pay Governours, Judges, &ic.

Vide — Laws of Jamaica.

8th. In time of war, on requisition made by the King,
with consent of Parliament, every Colony shall raise such
stuns of money, as their Legislatures may think suitable to
their abilities and the publick exigency, to be laid out in
raising and paying men, for land or sea service, furnishing
provisions, transports, or such other purposes as the King
shall require and direct.

9th. The Acts of Navigation to be re-examined, in order
to see whether some alterations might not be made there-
in, as much for the advantage of Great Britain, as the ease
of the Colonies.

10th. A Naval Officer to be appointed by the Crown to
reside in each Colony, to see those Acts observed.

N. B. In some Colonies they are not appointed by the
Crown.

1 1th. All Duties arising on the Acts for regulating
Trade with the Colonies, to be for the publick use of the
respective Colonies, and paid into their Treasuries, and an
Officer of the Crown to see it done.

12th. The Admiralty Courts to be reduced to the same
powers as they have in England.

13th. All Judges in the King's Colony Governments to
be appointed during good behaviour, and to be paid by the
Province, agreeable to article seventh.

N. B. If the King chooses to add to their salaries, the
same to be sent from England.

14th. The Governours to be supported in the same man-
ner.

Our conversation turned chiefly upon the first article.
It was said that the Ministry only wanted some opening to
be given them, some ground on which to found the com-
mencement of conciliating measures, that a petition, con-
taining such an engagement, as mentioned in this article,
would answer that purpose ; that preparations were making
to send over more Troops and Ships, that such a petition
might prevent their going, especially if a Commissioner
were proposed ; I was therefore urged to engage the Colo-
ny Agents to join with me in such a petition. My answer
was, that no Agent had any thing to do with the Tea busi-
ness but those for Massachusetts-Bay, who were, Mr. Bol-
lan for the Council, myself for the Assembly, and Mr. Lee,
appointed to succeed me when I should leave England ;
that the latter, therefore, could hardly yet be considered as
an Agent; and that the former was a cautious exact man,
and not easily persuaded to take steps of such importance
without instructions or authority ; that therefore if such a
step were to be taken, it would lie chiefly on me to take it ;
that indeed, if there were, as they supposed, a clear proba-
bility of good to be done by it, 1 should make no scruple
of hazarding myself in it ; but I thought the empowering
a Commissioner to suspend the Boston Port Act, was a
method too dilatory, and a mere suspension would not be
satisfactory ; that if such an engagement were entered into,
all the Massachusetts Acts should be immediately repealed.

They laid hold of the readiness 1 had expressed to peti-
tion on a probability of doing good, applauded it, and urged
me to draw up a petition immediately. I said it was a
matter of importance, and, with their leave, 1 would take
home the paper, consider the propositions as they now

' Supposed to mean tlie Boston Port Act. B. t'.

stood, and give them my opinion to-morrow evening. This
was agreed to, and for that time we parted.

Weighing now the present dangerous situation of affairs
in America, and the daily hazard of widening the breach
there irreparable, I embraced the idea proposed in the
paper, of sending over a Commissioner, as it might be a
means of suspending military operations, and bring on a
treaty, whereby mischief would be prevented, and an
agreement by degrees be formed and established ; I also
concluded to do what had been desired of me as to the
engagement, and essayed a draught of a memorial to Lord
Dartmouth, for that purpose, simply ; to be signed only by
myself. As to the sending of a Commissioner, a measure
which I was desired likewise to propose, and express my
sentiments of its utility, I apprehended my colleagues in
the agency might be justly displeased if I took a step of
such importance without consulting them, and therefore I
sketched a joint petition to that purpose for them to sign
with me if they pleased ; but apprehending that would
meet with difficulty, I drew up a letter to Lord Dartmouth,
containing the same proposition, with the reasons for it, to
be sent from me only. I made also upon paper some re-
marks on the propositions ; with some hints on a separate
paper of further remarks to be made in conversation, when
we should meet in the evening of the 17th. Copies of
these papers (except the first, which I do not find with me
on shipboard) are here placed as follows, viz:

To the King's Most Excellent Majesty.

The Petition and Memorial of W. Bollan, B. Franklin,
and Arthur Lee,

Most humbly sheweth:

That your Petitioners, being Agents for several Colonies,
and deeply affected with the apprehension of impending
calamities that now threaten your Majesty's subjects in
America, beg leave to approach your throne, and to sug-
gest with all humility, their opinion, formed on much atten-
tive consideration, that if it should please your Majesty to
permit and authorize a meeting of Delegates from the dif-
ferent Provinces, and appoint some person or persons of
dignity and wisdom from this Country, to preside in that
meeting, or to confer with the said Delegates, acquaint
themselves fully with the true grievances of the Colonies,
and settle the means of composing all dissensions, such
means to be afterwards ratified by your Majesty, if found
just and suitable; your Petitioners are persuaded, from
their thorough knowledge of that Country and People, that
such a measure might be attended with the most salutary
effects, prevent much mischief, and restore the harmony
which so long subsisted, and is so necessary to the prospe-
rity and happiness of all your Majesty's subjects in every
part of your extensive Dominions ; which that Heaven
may preserve entire to your Majesty and your descendants,
is the sincere prayer of your Majesty's most dutiful sub-
jects and servants.

To the Right Honourable Lord Dartmouth, fyc. :

My Lord : Being deeply apprehensive of the impend-
ing calamities that threaten the Nation and its Colonies,
through the present unhappy dissensions, I have attentively
considered by what possible means those calamities may
be prevented. The great importance of a business which
concerns us all, will, 1 hope, in some degree excuse me to
your Lordship, if I presume unasked to offer my humble
opinion, that should His Majesty think fit to authorize
Delegates from the several Provinces to meet, at such con-
venient time and place as in his wisdom shall seem meet,
then and there to confer with a Commissioner or Commis-
sioners to be appointed and empowered by His Majesty,
on the means of establishing a firm and lasting union be-
tween Britain and the American Provinces, such a mea-
sure might be effectual for that purpose. I cannot, there-
fore, but wish it may be adopted, as no one can more
ardently and sincerely desire the general prosperity of the
British Dominions, than, my Lord, your Lordship's most
obedient, &4C, B- Franklin.

Remarks on the Propositions.
Article 1. In consequence of that engagement all the
Boston and Massachusetts Acts to be suspended, and in
compliance with that engagement to be totally repealed.

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CORRESPONDENCE, PROCEEDINGS, &c, MARCH, 1775.

20-1

By this amendment Article 4th will become unneces-
sary.

Articles 4 and 5. The numerous Petitions heretofore
sent home by the Colony Assemblies, and either refused
to be received, or received and neglected, or answered
harshly, and the petitioners relinked for making them, have,
1 conceive, totally discouraged that method of application,
and if even their friendfl were now to propose to them the
lecurring again to petitioning, such friends would bethought
to trifle with them. Resides, all they desire is now before
Government, in the Petition of the Congress, and the whole
or parts may be granted or refused at pleasure. The sense
of the Colonies cannot be better obtained by petition from
different Colonies, than it is by that general petition.

Article 7, Read, such as they may think necessary.

Article 11, As it stands, of little importance. The first
proposition was, that they should be repealed as unjust. But
they may remain, for they will probably not be executed.

Even with the amendment proposed above to Article 1,
I cannot think it stands as it should do. If the object be
merely the preventing present bloodshed, and the other
mischiefs to fall on that Country in war, it may possibly
answer that end ; but if a thorough hearty reconciliation is
wished for, all cause of heart-burning should be removed,
and strict justice be done on both sides. Thus the Tea
should not only be paid for on the side of Boston, but the
damage done to Boston by the Port Act should be repaired,
because it was done contrary to the custom of all Nations,
savage as well as civilized, of first demanding satisfaction.

Article 14, The Judges should receive nothing from the
King.

As to the other two Acts, the Massachusetts must suffer
all the hazards and mischiefs of war, rather than admit the
alteration of theirCharters and Laws by Parliament. "They
who can give up essential liberty to obtain a little tempo-
rary safety, deserve neither liberty nor safety."

B. Franklin.
Hints.

1 doubt the regulating Duties will not be accepted,
without enacting them, and having the power of appoint-
ing the Collectors in the Colonies.

If we mean a hearty reconciliation, we must deal candid-
ly, and use no tricks.

The Assemblies are many of them in a state of dissolu-
tion. It will require lime to make new elections; then to
meet and choose Delegates, supposing all could meet. But
the Assembly of the Massachusetts-Bay cannot act under
the new Constitution, nor meet the new Council for that
purpose, without acknowledging the power of Parliament
to alter their Charter, which they never will do. The lan-
guage of the proposal is, Try on your fetters fust, and then
if you don't like them, petition and we will consider.

Establishing salaries for Judges may be a general law.
For Governours not so, the Constitution of Colonies differ-
ing. It is possible Troops may be sent to particular Pro-
vinces, to burden them when they are out of favour.

Canada. — We cannot endure despotism over any of our
fellow-subjects. We must all be free, or none.

That afternoon 1 received the following note from Mrs.
Howe, enclosing another from Lord Howe, viz:

Mrs. Howe's compliments to Dr. Franklin; she has
just received the enclosed note from Lord Howe, and hopes
it will be convenient to him to come to her either to-mor-
row or Sunday, at any hour most convenient to him which
she begs he will be so good to name.

Grafton.Street, Friday, February 17, 1775.

[Enclosed in the foregoing.]
To the Honourable Mrs. Howe :

^ 1 wish you to procure me an opportunity to see Dr.
Franklin, at your house, to-morrow, or on Sunday morn-
ing, for an essential purpose.
Grafton.Street, Friday, i o'clock.
Received Friday, 5 o'clock, February 17, \l~r>.

I had not heard from his Lordship for some time, and
readily answered, that I would do myself the honour of
waiting upon him at her house to-morrow at 11 o'clock.

Mr. Barclay, Dr. Fothcrgill, and myself, met according
to appointment at the Doctor's house, "l delivered to them

the Remarks I had made on the paper, and we talked them
over. I read, also, the sketches 1 had made of the Peti-
tions and Memorials ; but they being of opinion, that the
repeal of none of the Massachusetts Acts could be obtain-
ed by my engaging to pay for the Tea, the Boston Port
Act excepted, and I insisting on a repeal of all, otherwise
declining to make the offer, that measure was deferred for
the present, and I pocketed my draughts. They conclu-
ded, however, to report my sentiments, and see if any fur-
ther concession could be obtained. They observed, that
I had signed my remarks, on which I said, that understand-
ing by other means as well as from them, that the Minis-
ters had been acquainted with my being consulted in this
business, I saw no occasion for further mystery ; and since
in conveying and receiving through second hands their sen-
timents and mine, occasioned delay, and might be attended
with misapprehension, something being lost or changed by
mistake in the conveyance, I did not see why we should
not meet, and discuss the points together at once; that if
this was thought proper, I should be willing and ready to
attend them to the ministerial persons they conferred with.
They seemed to approve the proposal, and said they would
mention it.

The next morning I met Lord Howe according to ap-
pointment. He seemed very cheerful, having, as I imagine,
heard from Lord Hyde what that Lord might have heard
from Mr. Barclay the evening of the 16th, viz: that I had
consented to petition and engage payment for the Tea ;
whence it was hoped, the ministerial terms of accommo-
dation might take place. He let me know that he was
thought of to be sent Commissioner for settling the differ-
ences in America, adding, with an excess of politeness, that
sensible of his own unacquaintedness with the business, and
of my knowledge and abilities, he could not think of under-
taking it without me ; but with me, he should do it most
readily ; for he should found his expectation of success on
my assistance ; he therefore had desired this meeting to
know my mind upon a proposition of my going with him
in some shape or other, as a friend, an assistant, a secreta-
ry ; that he was very sensible, if he should be so happy as
to effect any thing valuable, it must be wholly owing to the
advice and assistance I should afford him ; that he should
therefore make no scruple of giving me upon all occasions
the full honour of it ; that he had declared to the Ministers
his opinion of my good dispositions towards peace, and what
he now wished was to be authorized by me to sav, that I con-
sented to accompany him, and would co-operate with him
in the great work of reconciliation ; that the influence I had
over the minds of people in America, was known to be verv
extensive; and that 1 could, if any man could, prevail with
them to comply with reasonable propositions. I replied,
that I was obliged to his Lordship for the favourable opin-
ion he had of me, and for the honour he did me in propo-
sing to make use of my assistance ; that I wished to know
what propositions were intended for America ; that if they
were reasonable ones in themselves, possibly I might be
able to make them appear such to my countrymen ; but if
they were otherwise, I doubted whether that could be done
by any man, and certainly I should not undertake it. His
Lordship then said, that he should not expect my assistance
without a proper consideration. That the business was of
great importance, and if he undertook it, he should insist
on being enabled to make generous and ample appoint-
ments for those he took with him, particularly for me ; as
well as a firm promise of subsequent rewards; and, said
he, that the Ministry may have an opportunity of showing
their good disposition towards yourself, will you give me
leave, Mr. Franklin, to procure for you previously some
mark of it; suppose the payment here of the arrears of
your salary as agent for New-England, which I understand
they have stopped for some time past ? My Lord, said I,
I shall deem it a great honour to be in any shape joined
with your Lordship in so good a work ; but if you hope
service from any influence 1 may be supposed to have,
drop all thoughts of procuring me any previous favours
from Ministers ; my accepting them would destroy the verv
influence you propose to make use of; they would be
considered as so many bribes to betray the interest of mv
Country : but only let me see the propositions, and if I
approve of them, I shall not hesitate a moment, but will
hold myself ready to accompany your Lordship at an hour's

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CORRESPONDENCE, PROCEEDINGS, fee, MARCH, 1775.

206

warning. He then said; he wished 1 would discourse with
Lord Hyde upon the business, and asked if I had any
objection to meet his Lordship? 1 answered none, not the
least ; that I had a great respect for Lord Hyde, and would
wait upon him whenever he should please to permit it.
He said he would speak to Lord Hyde, and send me
word.

On the Monday following I received a letter from Lord
Howe. To understand it better, it is necessary to reflect,
that in the mean time there was opportunity for Mr. Bar-
clay to communicate to that Nobleman the remarks 1 had
made on the plan, the sight of which had probably changed
the purpose of making any use of me on the occasion.
The letter follows:

» ^nifton-Street, February 90, 1775.

Not having had a convenient opportunity to talk with
Lord Hyde until this morning, on the subject I mentioned
when I had, my worthy friend, the pleasure to see you last,
I now give you the earliest information of his Lordship's
sentiments upon my proposition.

He declares lie has no personal objection, and that he is
always desirous of the conversation of men of knowledge,
consequently, in that respect, would have a pleasure in
yours. But he apprehends, that on the present American
contest, your principles and his, or rather those of Parlia-
ment, are as yet so wide from each other, that a meeting
merely to discuss them, might give you unnecessary troubled
Should you think otherwise, or should any propitious cir-
cumstances approximate such distant sentiments, he would
be happy to be used as a channel to convey what might
tend to harmony, from a person of credit to those in power :
and I will venture to advance, from my knowledge of his
Lordship's opinion of men and things, that nothing of that
nature would suffer in the passage. I am, with a sincere
regard, your most obedient servant, Howe.

To Dr. Franklin.

As I had no desire of obtruding myself upon Lord Hyde,
though a little piqued at his declining to see me, I thought
it best to show a decent indifference, which I endeavoured
in the following answer :

Craven-Street, February 20, 1775.

Having nothing to offer on the American business, in
addition to what Lord Hyde is already acquainted with
from the papers that have passed, it seems most respectful
not to give his Lordship the trouble of a visit; since a
mere discussion of the sentiments contained in those pa-
pers is not, in his opinion, likely to produce any good
effect. I am thankful, however, to his Lordship, for the
permission of waiting on him, which 1 shall use if any
thing occurs that may give a chance of utility in such an
interview.

With sincere esteem and respect, 1 have the honour to
be, my Lord, your Lordship's most obedient humble ser-
vant, B. Franklin.

Lord Howe.

On the morning of the same day, February 20, it was
currently and industriously reported all over the Town,
that Lord North would that day make a pacifick motion in
the House of Commons, for healing all differences between
Britain and America. The House was accordingly very
full, and the members full of expectation. The Bedford
party, inimical to America, and who had urged severe
measures, were alarmed, and began to exclaim against the
Minister for his timidity, and the fluctuation of his politicks ;
they even began to count voices, to see if they could not,
by negativing his motion, at once unhorse him, and throw
him out of Administration. His friends were therefore
alarmed for him, and there was much caballing and whis-
pering. At length a motion, as one had been promised, was
made, but whether that originally intended, is with me very
doubtful : I suspect, from its imperfect composition, from its
inadequatencss to answer the purpose previously professed,
and from some other circumstances, that when first drawn
it contained more of Mr. Barclay's plan, but was curtailed
by advice, just before it was delivered. My old proposi-
tion of giving up the regulating duties to the Colonies, was
in part to be found in it, and many who knew nothing of
that transaction, said it was the best part of the motion : it
was as follows :

Lord North's Motion, February 20, 1775.
" That it is the opinion of this Committee, that when
the Governour, Council, and Assembly, or General Court
of His Majesty's Provinces or Colonies, shall propose to
make provision according to their respective conditions,
circumstances, and situations, for contributing their propor-
tion to the common defence ; such proportion to be raised
under the authority of the General Court, or General As-
sembly of such Province or Colony, and disposable by
Parliament ; and shall engage to make provision also for
the support of the Civil Government, and the administra-
tion of justice in such Province or Colony, it will be proper
if such proposal shall be approved by His Majesty in Par-
liament, and for so long as such provision shall be made
accordingly, to forbear in respect of such Province or Col-
ony, to levy any duties, tax, or assessment, or to impose
any further duty, tax, or assessment, except only such
duties as it may be expedient to impose for the regulation
of Commerce; the net produce of the duties last men-
tioned, to be carried to the account of such Province,
Colony, or Plantation exclusively."

After a good deal of wild debate, in which this motion
was supported upon various and inconsistent principles by
the ministerial people, and even met will) an opposition
from some of them, which showed a want of concert, pro-
bably from the suddenness of the alterations above supposed,
they all agreed at length, as usual, in voting it by a large
majority. Hearing nothing all the following week from
Messrs. Barclay and Fothergill. (except that Lord Hyde,
when acquainted with my willingness to engage for pay-
ment of the Tea, had said it gave him new life,) nor any
thing from Lord Howe, I mentioned his silence occasionally
to his sister, adding, that I supposed it owing to his finding
what he had proposed to me was not likely to take place ;
and I wished her to desire him, if that was the case, to let
me know it by a line, that I might be at liberty to take other
measures. She did so as soon as he returned from the
country, wdiere he had been for a day or two; and I
received from her the following note, viz:

Mrs. Howe's compliments to Doctor Fran Jclin : Lord
Hoive not quite understanding the message received from
her, will be glad to have the pleasure of seeing him, either
between twelve and one this morning, (the only hour he
is at liberty this day,) at her house, or at any hour to-mor-
row most convenient to him.
Grafton-Street, Tuesday.

I met his Lordship at the hour appointed. He said that
he had not seen me lately, as he expected daily to have
something more material to say to me than had yet occurred ;
and hoped that 1 would have called on Lord Hyde, as I
had intimated I should do when I apprehended it might be
useful, which he was sorry to find I had not done. That
there was something in my verbal message by Mrs. Howe,
which perhaps she had apprehended imperfectly ; it was
the hint of my purpose to take other measures. I an-
swered, that having since I had last seen his Lordship
heard of the death of my wife at Philadelphia, in whose
hands 1 had left the care of my affairs there, it was become
necessary for me to return thither as soon as conveniently
might be ; that what his Lordship had proposed, of my
accompanying him to America, might, if likely to take
place, postpone rny voyage to suit his conveniency ; other-
wise, I should proceed by the first ship. That I did
suppose, by not hearing from him, and by Lord North's
motion, all thoughts of that kind were laid aside, which was
what 1 only desired to know from him. He said my last
paper of remarks by Mr. Barclay, wherein I had made
the indemnification of Boston for the injury of stopping its
Port, a condition of my engaging to pay for the Tea, (a
condition impossible to be complied with,) had discouraged
further proceeding on that idea. Having a copy of that
paper in my pocket, 1 showed his Lordship that 1 had pro-
posed no such condition of my engagement, nor any other
than the repeal of all the Massachusetts Acts: that what
followed relating to the indemnification was only expressing
my private opinion that it would be just, but by no means
insisting upon it. He said the arrangements were not yet
determined on ; that as I now explained myself, it appeared
I had been much misapprehended ; and he wished of all

211

CORRESPONDENCE, PROCEEDINGS, fcc, MARCH, 1775.

212

Willi confidence in your prudence and friendship, and
with much respect and esteem, your honour's most obedi-
ent and very humble servant,

Elea/.ar Wheei.ock.

I expect Mr. Dean here in May.

LETTER TO A GENTLEMAN IN NEW-YOKK, DATED BOSTON,
MARCH --'-2, 11"i.">.

We are still without any of your favours, we mppose
for the same reason as wis mentioned in our last. Since
the Army have found that ihe season is past for nature's
forming a bridge from hence, they become abusive and
insuring. They are now finishing their fortifications on
die N*ck, by picketing on each side. We propose to give
vou an account of the manoeuvres of our adversaries as
they may occur.

The 16th instant, (being recommended by the Provin-
cial Congress to be observed as a day of fasting and
prayer ;) on the morning of this day the society at the west
end of Boston were greatly disturbed by a party of Officers
and Soldiers of the Fourth, or King's own Regiment.
When the people were assembling, they brought two
marquee tents, and pitched them within about ten yards
of the meeting-house ; then sent for three drums and three
fifes, and kept them beating and playing till service was
over ; Colonel Maddison was present part of the time.

17th. In the evening Colonel Hancock's elegant seat,
situate near the Common, was attacked by a number of
Officers, who, with their swords, cut and hacked the fence
before his house in a most scandalous manner, and behaved
very abusively, by breaking people's windows, and insult-
ing almost every person they met.

18th. The Neck Guard seized 13,425 musket car-
tridges with ball, (we suppose through the information of
some dirty scoundrel, of which we now have many among
us,) and about three hundred pounds of ball, which they
were carrying into the country ; this was private property.
The owner applied to the General first, but he absolutely
refused to deliver it. They abused the teamster very
much, and run a bayonet into his neck. The same even-
ing a number of Officers, heated with liquor, (as is said,)
with drawn swords, ran through the streets, like what they
really were, madmen, cutting every one they met ; the
stage coach just arrived from Providence passing by, they
attacked it, broke the glass, and abused the passengers ;
the driver, being a smart fellow, jumped oft' his seat,
caught one of them, (Captain Gore, of the Fifth,) and
some blows passed ; when the Officer retired, not much to
his credit.

19th. Colonel Hancock was again much insulted by a
number of inferiour Officers and Privates, who entered his
enclosures, and refused to retire after his requesting them
so n do, telling him that his house, stables, &ic, would
soon be theirs, and then they would do as they pleased.
However, on his application to the General, he immedi-
ately sent one of his Aids-de-Camp to the Officer of the
Guard, at the bottom of the Common, to seize any Officer
or Private who should molest Colonel Hancock or any in-
habitant in their lawful calling. Yours, Sic.

TO JOHN DICKINSON, ESO.UIRE,

One of the reputed Authors of the Pennsylvania Farm-
er's Letters, published on occasion of the American
Revenue Acts, in Mr. Grenville's Administration.

New-York, March 23, 1775.
Sir: I live at least two hundred and twenty miles from
Philadelphia, and am frequently a fortnight without re-
ceiving a Newspaper. That happens to be the case at
present, as 1 have only just now read the Resolves of your
Convention.* This letter, Sir, shall be publick, only be-
cause the people of Pennsylvania are taught to believe the
author of the Farmer's Letters is infallible. Nasce te
ipsum, is the advice of a wise man, and as difficult to be
attained by some, as to be translated by others. I am a
plain, honest man, Sir, who never received a favour from
the hand of power. My composition is simple, and easily
defined. 1 have been at a great deal of pains to learn the
true character of Mr. Dickinson; have asked it repeatedly
* January 23 to 28, 1775.

from Whig and Tory ; and as I know myself to be void of
prejudice on account of difference in opinion, will take the
liberty to mention what I have been able to discover. You
are a gentleman of good natural understanding, great read-
ing, and engaging address. You early found yourself pos-
sessed of knowledge, and the means by which you first ob-
tained popularity were in many instances laudable. But
the praises of the multitude are dangerous, even to a virtu-
ous man ; they gain his confidence by their applause, and
feed the innocent vanity of the human mind, until he at last
surrenders up his judgment, joins in the popular errour,
and finds, when too late, he was wedded to his wo. If I
am rightly informed, Sir, (and my authority is not bad,) you
are worth at least Forty Thousand Pounds Sterling ; en-
tertain elegantly, as often as your constitution will admit
of"; and are blest with as sweet a tongue as ever delivered
the language of profusion ; a lawyer, too. 1 wish 1 had
forgot that circumstance ; ignorance of the laws might plead
in mitigation of the breach of them ; but how are we to
account for the late conduct of the highly lettered, the ac-
complished Mr. Dickinson! In your Farmer's Letters,
you breathe the gentle accents of order and decorum ; you
positively pronounce that the King is the ruling power, in
whom is justly vested the regulations of Trade, &.c. You
wrote then, Sir, as if you thought your Country injured ; I
am sorry to say you now act as if you repented of proprie-
ty. I have not those Letters by me at present, but I read
them as they came out, with great attention. I was told
the author was a young man, who loved, like other men
of abilities, to be known and admired; and notwithstand-
ing I perceived many sentiments calculated to feed the
popular appetite, yet almost every line told the admiring
reader they were the production of a gentleman. Now,
Sir, let me request of you to turn over once more those
leaves of genius; compare your words at that time with
your present actions ; though much you are altered, you
cannot read those papers without recollecting what you
were ; and I think that modesty which marks your charac-
ter, must make you blush for what you are. I perfectly
remember your asserting the dependance of the Colonies
on Great Britain in the most positive terms, and you have
now set your seal to a resolution of taking up arms against
your Sovereign, unless King, Lords, and Commons re-
linquish their claim to the very privileges which, seven
years ago, you spent whole pages in defending their right
to. It is true that mad resolve contains a proviso ; but per-
mit me to assure you, it would have done your understand-
ing more honour to have omitted it. What ! deliver a
petition to the greatest monarch on earth with one hand,
and hold a sword in the other, with a paper on the point of
it, containing the following words : " If you do not give up
your legal authority over the Colonies, we will break oft'
all connexion with you, and, by withholding certain arti-
cles, we will drive Great Britain, Ireland, and the West-
Indies into such convulsions, as will shake your Throne,
and enable us to command our own terms." I appeal to
your heart, is not this a fair representation ? The best and
most sensible men are often easy and unsuspecting, and
(pardon the expression) too often the dupes of aspiring vil-
la n y . It is difficult to write on this subject, without trans-
gressing the bounds of delicacy. Your private character,
Sir, is amiable, and incapable of deliberate errour; so that
the censure which your political one justly merits, ought to
be tenderly and politely administered. This I have endea-
voured to observe, notwithstanding truth frequently loses
its weight when destitute of severity. Is it possible, Sir,
that a man of your penetration should expect or wish that
Great Britain should be bullied into abject submission ?
My hand trembles at the next sentence. If you love or
honour her, your prayers now are, that every resolve of
the Congress (except to keep sheep to a proper age) may
be treated with the utmost contempt; if you do not love
her, I am sorry for it. You have too much sense to join
in the idle opinion which some have adopted, that to obtain
enough, you must demand too much. You are a man of
spirit, I dare say, and I beg leave to ask, if you had been
so unfortunate as to offend a gentleman, and offered to make
an apology, would you submit to acknowledge yourself a
fool or a cowaid ? Inexpediency and right are two differ-
ent things ; but if Parliament thought proper lo relax, it
would be very immaterial to the Colonies through which

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214

channel they enjoyed the blessings of peace. But, alas !
Peace, with all her loveliness, lias few admirers. Sedition,
that battered hag, steps forth with all the frippery of delu-
sive tinsel — the admiring crowd pursue with eager eyes —
to all she promises the wished event. " Fear not, my faith-
ful sons, my bold Republicans, the time draws nigh when
honours shall be dealt out with a liberal hand ; my spiritual
agents in New- England shall roll in chariots ; my favourite
Adams shall be head of their mightinesses ; the name of
King shall not be known among us; our Troops shall be
commanded by the famous wanderer, Lee; and you, Mr.
Dickinson, shall be Prime Council to the States General."
Whether you believe this or not, I will be answerable it is
the creed of your morning star in Market-Street, and of
your new puritanick relation, Charles Thomson, who
grins horribly on all a ghastly smile.

Now, Sir, permit a man who has been an eye witness to
the unhappy consequences of one rebellion, to warn you of
impending misery. You are too well acquainted with the
human heart not to know that an English Senator is as
capable of resenting an injury, as any member of the Grand
Continental Congress. Consider, Sir, when the people of
England speak, it comes from the mouths of cannon, back-
ed by men whose approved courage and ardour have ren-
dered them the terrour of tho-e enemies, a few of whom
(were it not for the protection of Old England last war)
would have laid your estates, as well as those of your neigh-
bours, under heavy contributions.

I am at a loss what name to give your boasted intentions
of wounding the commercial interest of Great Britain.
If you really mean what you say, it is the grossest infatua-
tion. The Island of Tencriffe might, with as great a
prospect of success, threaten to ruin Willing and Morris,
by not trading with them, when every other corner of the
habitable globe pants for their correspondence.

Let an old man entreat you. Sir, to consider the people
who look to you ; the lower order of men in Pennsylvania
are as bigoted to you, as the deluded papists to their Priests
in Ireland.

Our gracious Sovereign, ever watchful over the lives and
happiness of his subjects, has made choice of a man, whose
persevering humanity and unshaken steadiness in the dis-
charge of his present complicated and important command,
reflect the highest honour on the judgment of his master,
and will stand unparalleled in the records of merit. And
would you, Sir, wish to counteract the godlike work of pre-
venting bloodshed in the Colonies, and a disgraceful sub-
mission on the part of the Mother Country ? Figure to
yourself the sword unsheathed ; a soldiery (who knows no
stop) let loose at men, women, and children, with the word
rebellion ringing in their ears ; and to complete the dread-
ful picture, the Lords of the Ocean thundering the resent-
ment of the British Nation through your houses and the
cradles of your guiltless offspring. This, Sir, is not chi-
merical: I believe the probability of it as much as 1 do
proofs of Holy Writ. From your private character, I sup-
pose there is no man who would more readily dry up the
tears of the widow, and pour balm into the wounds of the
infant ; but remember, Sir, if you are a principal in pro-
moting them, your good offices will be considered as a
death-bed repentance. Senex.

TO THE COMMITTEE OF INSPECTION FOR THE CITY AND
COUNTY OF NEW-YORK.

New.York, March 23, 1775.

Gentlemen: While the late Committee of fifty-one
acted as a Committee of Correspondence for the City, the
generality of its inhabitants, particularly the most sensible
and judicious part of them, were happy in reposing the
trust with so respectable a body, composed as it was of the
principal citizens; but when the present Committee was
formed out of the ruins, as I may say, of the old Commit-
tee, was there a cool, considerate man among us who did
not forebode evil?

It has been remarked, that we have but one Press in
this Colony which has been at all times strictly impartial.
Now an impartial Press is observed, for reasons best known
to themselves, to be extremely obnoxious to a certain par-
ty ; they have not failed to persecute their supporters in all
parts of America. And that we have had our share of the

same persecuting spirit, may be seen in the Republican
Resolves at and near Elizabethtovm — Resolves that are
subversive of the very idea of freedom. You, gentlemen,
who compose our City Committee, to show that you are as
highly seasoned with the old leaven, seem only to have
waited for an opportunity of playing the same game ; and
before the occasion could well be said to have arrived,*
you greedily descend, like a hawk upon his prey, and seize
the poor Printer in your talons ; meanly condescending to
be the echo of little, piddling, Country Committees. But
let me caution you to beware how you tread upon this hal-
lowed ground, lest, instead of the Printer's, you work your
own downfall.

The liberty of the Press is a sacred privilege ; it is the
only means in the hands of the people, that can be safely
used to check the growth of arbitrary power. Should those
who have fixed themselves as sentinels upon the watch-
tower of liberty, to give notice of all invaders, be the first
to curtail this darling immunity, will it not give the people
cause to suspect that they themselves are about to establish
a power more arbitrary and tyrannical than any thing we
have hitherto complained of? Will not a severe reprehen-
sion for what can be scarcely called a crime in a Printer,
coming from a quarter that could have been the least sus-
pected, raise alarming apprehensions in the minds of their
fellow-citizens ? The tenour of your publication speaks for
itself, and needs no comment ; it does not appear as barely
intended to rectify the errours of the Press, but it breathes
a spirit of intimidation towards the Printer. Were I to put
the same sentiment into plainer language, I should translate
it thus : " Beware. Mr. Printer, we, the Grand Committee
of New - York, are not to be trifled with ! Ours is a sacred
body ! and must not be made the sport of Printers or their
devils. Abuse the Parliament as much as you list, glut
your spleen upon the House of Assembly, but come not
within the verge of our jurisdiction, at your utmost peril."
In your eagerness to censure the Printer, you forgot to
inform us what you had clone ; we are only told what you
have not done, but are left in the dark as to the foundation
for the report in question, though it is still believed that
something passed in your Committee respecting the nomi-
nation or election of Delegates, but what this was is artfully
concealed from us.

If you are afraid of your conduct being misrepresented,
why are not your proceedings published ? Your office is
of so extraordinary a nature, that your conduct will be can-
vassed by thousands who never converse with any of your
members. It is the peculiar excellency of the British
Constitution, that the proceedings of all publick bodies
should be freely discussed ; and amidst so many inquirers,
it is scarcely possible to avoid some misrepresentations; to
guard against which, nothing is more necessary than to lay
the particulars before the publick, and if any censure is due
at all, it is to a neglect of this precaution.

Anti-Tyrannicus.

New-York, Thursday, March 23, 1775.

On Monday afternoon, expresses arrived in Town from
the County of Cumberland, in this Province, who bring
accounts from thence of a very extraordinary and alarming
nature, on the Monday afternoon preceding, March 13th,
the day for holding the Inferiour Courts, several rioters and
disorderly persons, to the number of between eighty and
ninety, assembled at the Court-House, of which they took
possession, with an avowed intent of preventing the Court
from being held the next day; many of them had arms, and
those who were unprovided for were collecting both arms
and ammunition with all possible despatch. Many of the
Magistrates having come to Town, it was thought advisa-
ble that the Sheriff should make the usual proclamation
against riotous assemblies, and demand possession of the

* The reader is requested to compare the Resolves of the Committee
with those of Parliament, on the subject of common report, and then
he nil! Bee id larly the dangerous tendency of all assumed powers.

Resolved, That common report is not a sufficient authority for any
Printer in this City to publish any matters as facts relative to this

1 Car. 1, lu'25. — Resolved, That common fame is a good ground of
proceedings for this House, either by inquiry, or presenting the com-
plaint 'if the House find cause) to the King and Lords.

Villa Lex Parliamentaria, where it is recited by tho authority of
• ilh, on: of the Republican party, aud Secretary to Lord
Fairfax.

215

CORRESPONDENCE, PROCEEDINGS, Sic, MARCH, 1775.

216

Court-House and Jail, which being refused several times,
about nine o'clock at night a party assembled in order to
disperse the rioters; these proceeded with the Sheriff and
some Magistrates to the Court-House where proclamation
was again made by the Sheriff for the rioters to disperse,
and sundry attempts were made to get in, without using
tire-arms, but this proving ineffectual, three guns were fired
over the door in hopes the rioters would be intimidated
and retire ; but so determined were they in their undertak-
ing, that the lire was immediately returned from the Court-
House, by which one of the Magistrates was slightly wound-
ed, and another person shot through his clothes. The
Magistrates seeing the imminent danger they were in, so
well exerted themselves, that they forced the front door,
and after a very smart engagement, wherein one of the
rioteis was killed, and many persons on both sides wounded,
the Court-House was cleared, and proper measures taken
to preserve the peace lor that night. The next morning
all was tumult and disorder; the Judges, however, opened
the Court at the usual hour, and adjourned till three
o'clock in the afternoon ; but by this time, the body of
rioters beginning to assemble in large parties from New-
Hampshire, and places adjacent, and particularly from Ben-
nington, in the neighbouring County of Albany, with a
hostile appearance, and the Coutt foreseeing no probability
of being able to proceed to business, adjourned till next
June term. The body of rioters, which soon amounted to
upwards of five hundred, surrounded the Court-House,
took the Judges, the Justices, the Sheriff, the Clerk, and
as many more of their friends as they could find, into close
custody, and sent parties out, who were daily returning
with more prisoners ; the roads and passages were guarded
with armed men, who indiscriminately laid hold of all pas-
sengers against whom any of the party intimated the least
suspicion ; and the mob, stimulated by their leaders to the
utmost fury and revenge, breathed nothing but blood and
slaughter against the unfortunate persons in their power.
The only thing which suspended their fate was a difference
of opinion as to the manner of destroying them. And from
the violence and inhumanity of the disposition apparent in
the rioters, it is greatly to be feared that some of the
worthy men in confinement will fall a sacrifice to the
brutal fury of a band of ruffians, before timely aid can be
brought to their assistance.

TO THE WOKTHY INHABITANTS OF THE CITY OF NEW-YORK.

Now-York, March 23, 1775.
Permit a stranger expelled from his habitation, and in-
humanly abused by an insolent and persecuting rabble, who
have long dealt destruction around them with impunity,
to submit his unmerited sufferings to your compassionate
attention. Seized, like the vilest malefactor, without the
shadow of offence ; condemned by a mock tribunal ;
severely and ignominiously beaten ; stripped of his whole
substance ; compelled to abandon his wife and children in
a distant County to the care of Providence ; and plunged
into want and distress, he has no place of refuge but in
this hospitable City. It is his only consolation, amidst the
most painful reflections, to flatter himself, that when this
unhappy case is made publick, he will not only receive
from Government the protection due to an innocent and
much injured subject, but will partake of that benevolence
from individuals for which the citizens of New-York are
justly celebrated. He wishes to make no comment on the
circumstances related in the following deposition ; they
admit of no aggravation. Benjamin Hough.

City of New-York, ss.

Benjamin Hough, one of His Majesty's Justices of the
Peace for the County of Charlotte, being duly sworn on
the Holy Evangelists of Almighty God, deposeth and
saith : That on or about the 26th day of January last past,
about eight o'clock in the morning, this deponent being at
some distance from his dwelling-house, but in view thereof,
observed three persons stop at his door, and enter his said
house, this deponent's whole family (except a child of
about six years of age) being absent ; that immediately
thereafter this deponent was attacked by about thirty per*
sons, a number of whom were armed with firelocks, swords,
and hatchets ; that upon their approach this deponent at-

tempted to gel into his house to secure his arms and stand
upon his defence ; but that this deponent observing that
Wlnthorp Hoyt, of Bennington, one of the three persons
this deponent had observed going into his house, stood at
the threshold of this deponent's door, with this deponent's
sword and pistol in his hands, he, this deponent, found it
would be to no purpose either to attempt to escape or to
make resistance ; that thereupon Peleg Sunda/and, of
the said County of Charlotte, came up to this deponent
with a hatchet in his hand, and slapping this deponent on
the shoulder, told him he was his prisoner; that he, the
said Pelas Sunderland, and the other persons who were
with him, forced this deponent into a sleigh, and carried
him about fifty miles to the southward of this deponent's
place of residence, to a place by them called Sunderland,
where they kept this deponent until the 30th day of the
said month of January in close confinement, part of the
time bound, and always under a strong guard, with drawn
swords. That Si//vanus Brown, James Meed, Samuel
Campbell, one Dwinels, one Powers, Stephen Meed, one
Booley, and one hymen, were among the persons who so
seized and detained this deponent ; and with respect to the
rest of them, they were either strangers to this deponent,
or he cannot recollect their names at present ; that while
they had this deponent so in custody at Sunderland, some
of the said rioters informed this deponent that he could
not have his trial till the Monday following, because they
intended to send for Ethan Allen and Seth Warner, who
were then at Bennington, and who are two of the princi-
pal ringleaders of the Bennington mob. That on the said
30th day of January, the said rioters appointed a Court
for the trial of this deponent, which consisted of the fol-
lowing persons, to wit : The said Ethan Allen, Seth War-
ner, Bobert Cochran, Peleg Sunderland, James Meed,
Gideon Warren, and Jesse Saiuyer, and they being seated,
ordered this deponent to be brought before them ; that he
was accordingly brought before them as a prisoner, guarded
by persons with drawn swords ; that thereupon the said
Ethan Allen laid the three following accusations to the
charge of this deponent, to wit :

1st. That this deponent had complained to the Gov-
ernment of Neiv-York of their (the said rioters) mobbing
and injuring Benjamin Spencer, Esq., and other persons.

2d. That the deponent had dissuaded and discouraged the
people from joining the mob in their proceedings ; and,

3d. That the deponent had taken a commission of the
peace under the Government of New- York, and exercised
his office as a Magistrate for the County of Charlotte ; al-
leging that this deponent well knew that they (the mob)
did not allow of any Magistrate there.

And that after the said accusations were so made, the
said Ethan Allen told the deponent that he was at liberty
to plead for himself, if he had any thing to say; that this
deponent then demanded of him, the said Ethan Allen,
and the rest of his pretended Judges, whether he, this
deponent, had ever done injustice to any man in the exe-
cution of his office as a Magistrate ? To which they an-
swered, that they could not charge him with any injustice
in the execution of his office, nor had they any complaint
of that kind to make against him ; Warner, in particular,
declaring that he would as willingly have him for a Magis-
trate as any man whatever; but that they would not, under
their present circumstances, suffer any Magistrate at all.
That the deponent then asked the said pretended Judges,
whether they could accuse this deponent of busying him-
self or intermeddling with respect to titles of lands ? To
which the said Ethan Allen answered in the negative ; and
that they had not beard, nor did they pretend to charge
him with any thing of that kind ; that the deponent then
added, that with respect to their three charges against him,
he admitted them to be true : that he had made such com-
plaint to the Government of New- York of the proceedings
of the said rioters against the said Benjamin Spencer and
others ; that he had used his endeavours to dissuade people
from joining the said rioters in their proceedings ; and that
he has accepted a commission from the said Government
for, and exercised the office of, a Magistrate for the said
County of Charlotte ; and that all this be had a good right
to do, and looked upon as his duty. That after some
further argumentation, the said pretended Judges withdrew
to another house to consider of their judgment, and in

217

CORRESPONDENCE, PROCEEDINGS, &c, MARCH, 11

218

nbout two or three hours returned to the door of the house
where the deponent remained, and ordered him to be
brought out near a tree, where the said pretended Judges
had placed themselves, encircled by a number of armed
men, into the midst of which circle this deponent was con-
ducted as a prisoner, by four men with drawn swords ; and
that thereupon the said Ethan Allen, who all along acted
as the chief or principal Judge, pronounced the following
sentence against this deponent, which be read from a paper
which he held in his hand, to wit : That they had erected
a combination of judicious men for his trial, and had ac-
cused him in the manner before mentioned, [repeating the
accusations,] that the deponent had pleaded self-justifica-
tion, which they, the said pretended Judges, had found
insufficient to excuse him from punishment ; and that there-
lore their judgment was, that the deponent should be tied
up to a tree, and receive two hundred lashes on the naked
back, and then, as soon as he should be able, should depart
the Nevj- Hampshire Grants, and not return again upon
pain of receiving five hundred lashes ; that upon some per-
sons observing that he, this deponent, ought not to be
suffered to return while matters remained in their present
condition, the said Alien added, no — not till His Majesty's
pleasure shall be known in the premises. That thereupon
this deponent immediately bad his clothes taken off", and
he was stripped to the skin, and four persons being, by the
said pretended Court, appointed to carry the said sentence
into execution, this deponent accordingly received the two
hundred lashes upon his naked back, with whips of cords,
which lashes were inflicted by each of the said execu-
tioners, giving the deponent alternately a number of lashes,
though at the close he thinks he received from each of
them ten ; that the said Robert Cochran, who declared
himself to be Adjutant of the rioters, stood, during the
whole scene, near this deponent, and frequently urged the
said executioners to lay on the blows well and strike harder,
and particularly repeated such directions with respect to
the last ten inflicted by each of the said executioners ; that
it was often mentioned by some of the rioters, that if any
of this deponent's friends should intercede, or in any man-
ner favour him, they should share the same fate. That
the aforesaid Winthorp Hoyt, of Bennington, who pro-
fessed himself to be Drum-Major, Abel Benedict, of Ar-
lington, and one John Sawyer, and a person whose name
this deponent could not learn, were the four persons who
so whipped this deponent ; that this deponent was very
much wounded, and bled considerably by the said abuse ;
and the deponent being very faint, was put into the care
of Dr. Washburn, who conducted him into a house ; that
the deponent declared to the said rioters, that it was a great
hardship that he was not suffered to go home to take care
of his interest and child, who was left without father or
mother, the deponent's wife being absent on a distant visit
to her parents. That the rioters notwithstanding insisted
that the sentence should be put in execution, and the de-
ponent leave the country accordingly. And the deponent
further saith, that after he had been so abused, the said
Ethan Allen delivered him a paper in writing, signed by
him and Seth Warner, in the words and figures following,
to wit :

"Sunderland, 30th of January, 1775.

" This may certify the inhabitants of the Neiv-Hamp-
shire Grants, that Benjamin Hough hath this day re-
ceived a full punishment for his crimes committed here-
tofore against this Country, and our inhabitants are ordered
to give him, the said Hough, a free and unmolested pass-
port toward the City of New- York, or to the westward of
our Giants, he behaving as becometb. Given under our
bands the day and date aforesaid. Ethan Allen,

Seth Warner."

And he, this deponent, having received his strength, the
next day proceeded on foot on his journey toward the City
of New-York ; that while this deponent was in custody of
the said rioters, he heard the said Ethan Allen say, that
he expected that they should be obliged to drive off all the
damned Durhumites, [meaning the inhabitants of the Town
of Durham, in the County of Charlotte,] that this depo-
nent frequently beard the said rioters declare that they
would have little Walker [meaning Daniel Walker,] and
Thomas Braten, (the Constable who seivcd under this de-

ponent) if they could be found above ground ; and that
they further threatened that they would, for the future, be
more severe with the doomed Yorkers, [meaning persons
who would not join with them in their riotous proceedings,]
and would whip them within an inch of their lives ; that
for the future, they would not be at the trouble and ex-
pense of giving them a trial, but that the persons who met
with them should punish them immediately ; that this de-
ponent, while he was so confined, heard the said rioters
further; declare, that they were sorry they bad not inflicted
upon Doctor Adams [who lived in Arlington, and against
whom they had taken offence] five hundred lashes, instead
of hoisting him up and exposing him upon landlord Fay's
sign-post, where was fixed a dead catamount ; and that this
deponent also heard the said Ethan Allen declare in the
said mob, that he expected shortly to have a fight with the
damned Yorkers, for that they would hear bow the mob
bad abused their Magistrates ; but that be believed them
to be damned cowards, or that they would have come out
against them long before ; that this deponent, on his way
to New-York, called at the house of Bliss ffilloughby and
Ebenezer Cole, Esquires, two of His Majesty's Justices of
the Peace for the County of Albany, residing near Ben-
nington ; that he found them armed, in great distress and
danger, and having people in their houses ready to take
arms for their defence in case they should be attacked by
the rioters, which, as they assured this deponent, they
hourly expected ; that this deponent, on bis way to Netv-
York, also called at Pownall Town, part of which lies with-
in the Manor of Rcnsselaerwyck, (as this deponent has been
informed by the inhabitants of the said Town,) that he
found the said inhabitants in great commotion and uneasi-
ness on account of the said rioters ; that he understood from
some of the said inhabitants, that they had agreed to take
leases for their possessions under the proprietors of the
said Manor, but that they dared not for fear of the said
rioters, who had threatened them severely ; and one of the
said inhabitants in particular, told this deponent that he
had taken a lease for his farm of the said proprietor, but
should, on that account, be obliged to give it up ; that
when this deponent left the said Pownall Town, he met
George Gardiner, Esquire, of Pownall Town aforesaid,
also one of His Majesty's Justices of the Peace for the said
County of Albany, who told the deponent that the state
of the said Town was very dangerous and difficult ; that he
expected every day to be prevented by the rioters from
exercising bis office ; that he was apprehensive that unless
Government should give them some protection, many of
the inhabitants of the said Town would join the said rioters,
and earnestly entreated this deponent to exert his utmost
endeavours to procure such protection ; that this deponent,
on his way to New-York, conversed with James Clark,
[who was in his employ,] and who informed this deponent
(and which this deponent verily believes to be true) that
since this deponent was so seized by the said mob, John
Lord, Joseph Randel, and Clark, three of this deponent's
neighbours, had been very much abused and insulted by
the said mob, and that the said John Law was turned out
of bis possession and obliged to fly the Country. And the
deponent further says, that the said mob robbed him of his
arms, to wit: a hanger and pistol, which he has not been
able since to procure ; and the deponent further saith that
he hath frequently been informed, and believes it to be
true, that the said rioters have a design to put an end to
law and justice in the County of Cumberland, and that
they went so far as to appoint a day upon which to make
the attempt, but it did not then take place ; and further this
deponent saith not. B. Hough.

Sworn before me, the 7th day of March, 1775.

Dan. Horsmanden.

a relation of the proceedings of the people of
the county of cumberland, and province of new-
YORK.

Cumberland County, March 23, 1775.

In June, 1774, there were some Letters came to the
Supervisors of said County from the Committee of Corres-
pondence at New-York, signed by their Chairman, Mr.
Low ; which Letters said Supervisors, through ignorance
or intention, kept until Septtmbt r. when they had an-

219

CORRESPONDENCE, PROCEEDINGS, &c, MARCH, n"5.

220

otlier meeting ; anil it is supposed that they intended al-
ways lo have kept them ; and the good people would have
remained in ignorance about them until this time had it not
been by accident that it was whispered abroad, so that
Doctor Reuben Jones, of Rockingham, and Captain Aza-
riah Wright, of Westminster, heard of it, and took proper
care to notify those Towns.

A meeting was called in the two Towns aforesaid, and a
Committee was chosen by each Town to wait on the Su-
pervisors at their meeting in September, to see if there
were any papers that should he laid before the several
Towns in the County, and they found that there were pa-
pers come from the Committee of Correspondence that
should have been laid before the Towns in June. The
Supervisors made many excuses for their conduct; some
plead ignorance, and some one thing and some another:
but the most of them did seem to think that they could
send a return to the Committee at Nevj-York, without ever
laying them before their constituents, which principle, at
this day, so much prevails, that it is the undoing of the
people. Men at this day are so tainted with the princi-
ples of tyranny, that they would fain believe that as they
are chosen by the people to any kind of office, for any par-
ticular thing, that they have the sole power of that people
bv whom they are chosen, and can act in the name of that
people in any matter or thing, though it is not in any con-
nection with what they were chosen for. But the Com-
mittees would not consent to have a return made, until
every Town in the County had Mr. Low's letters laid be-
fore them, which was done, and a County Congress was
called, return was made, a Committee was chosen to see
that it was put in print, but, through interest or otherwise,
it never was published in any of the papers.

Immediately after the people of the County aforesaid
received the Resolves of the Continental Congress, they
called a County Congress, and did adopt all the Resolves
of the Continental Congress as their Resolves, promising
religiously to adhere to that Agreement or Association.
There was a Committee of Inspection moved for, to be chosen
by the County according to the second Resolve of the Asso-
ciation aforesaid ; but being much spoken against by a Jus-
tice and an Attorney, and looked upon by them as a child-
ish, impertinent thing, the Delegates dared not choose one.
At this time there were Tory parties forming, although
they were under disguise, and had laid a plan to bring the
lower sort of the people into a state of bondage and sla-
very. They saw that there was no cash stirring, and they
took that opportunity to collect debts, knowing that men
had no other way to pay them than by having their estates
taken by execution ami sold at vendue. There were but
very few men among us thar were able to buy, and those
men were so disposed that they would take all the world
into their own hands without paying any thing for it, if they
could by law, which would soon bring the whole Country
into slavery. Most or all of our men in authority, and all
that wanted Court favours, seemed much enraged, and
stirred up many vexatious lawsuits, and imprisoned many
contrary to the laws of this Province and the statutes of
the Crown. One man they put into close prison for high
treason, and all that they proved against him was, that he
said if the King had signed the Quebeck Bill, it was his
opinion that he had broke his coronation oath. But the
good people went and opened the prison door and let him
go, and did no violence to any man's person or property.

Our men in office would say that they did like the Reso-
lutions of the Continental Congress, and they ought to be
strictly adhered to until our General Assembly voted against
them. Then they said that this would do for the Bay-
Province, but it was childish for us to pay any regard to
them. Some of our Court would boldly say that the King
had a just right to make the Revenue Acts, for he had a
supreme power, and he that said otherwise was guilty of
high treason, and they did hope that they would he exe-
cuted accordingly. The people were of opinion that such
men were not suitable to rule over them, and as the Gene-
ral Assembly of this Province would not accede to the
Association of the Continental Congress, the good people
were of opinion that if they did accede lo any power from
or under them, they should he guilty of the breach of the
14th Article of that Association, and may justly be dealt
with accordingly by all America. When the good people

considered that the General Assembly were for bringing
them into a state of slavery, (which did appear plain by
their not acceding to the best method to procure their
liberties, and the Executive power so strongly acquiescing
in all that they did, whether it was right or wrong,) the
good people of said County thought it time to look to
themselves; and they thought that it was dangerous to
trust their lives and fortunes in the hands of such enemies
to American liberty, but more particularly unreasonable
that there should be any Court held, since thereby we
must accede to what our General Assembly had done, in
not acceding to what the whole Continent had recom-
mended, and that all America would break off all dealings
and commerce with us, and bring us into a state of slavery
at once. Therefore, in duty to God, ourselves, and pos-
terity, we thought ourselves under the strongest obligations
to resist and to oppose all authority that would not accede
to the Resolves of the Continental Congress. But know-
ing that many of our Court were men that neither feared
or regarded men, we thought that it was most prudent to go
and persuade the Judges lo stay at home. Accordingly
there were about forty good true men went from Rocking-
ham to Chester, to dissuade Colonel Chandler, the Chief
Judge, from attending Court. He said he believed it would
be for the good of the County not to have any Court as
things were, but there was one case of murder that they
must see to, and if it was not agreeable to the people they
would not have any other case. One of the Committee
told him that the Sheriff would raise a number with arms,
and that there would be bloodshed. The Colonel said
that he would give his word and honour that there should
not be any arms brought against us, and he would go down
to Court on Monday the 1 3th of March instant, which
was the day that the Court was to be opened. We told
him that we would wait on him if it was his will. He said
that our company would be very agreeable; likewise he
returned us his hearty thanks for our civility, and so we
parted with him.

We heard from the Southern part of the State that
Judge Sabin was very earnest to have the Law go on, as
well as many petty officers. There were but two Judges
in the County at that time, Colonel Wells being gone to
ISew- York. There was a great deal of talk in what
manner to stop the Court, and at length it was agreed on
to let the Court come together, and lay the reasons we had
against their proceeding before them, thinking they were
men of such sense that they would hear them. But on
Friday we heard that the Court was going to take the pos-
session of the house on the 13th instant, and to keep a
strong guard at the doors of said house, that we could not
come in. We being justly alarmed by the deceit of our
Court, though it was not strange, therefore we thought
proper to. get to Court before the armed guards were
placed, for we were determined that our grievances should
be laid before the Court before it was opened. On Monday
the 13th of March instant, there were about one hundred
of us entered the Court-House about four o'clock in the
afternoon. But we had but just entered before we were
alarmed by a large number of men, armed with guns,
swords and pistols. But we in the house had not any
weapons of war among us, and were determined that they
should not come in with their weapons of war except by
the force of them.

Escjuire Patterson came up at the head of his armed
company, within about five yards of the door, and com-
manded us to disperse; to which he got no answer. lie
then caused the King's Proclamation to be read, and told
us that if we did not disperse in fifteen minutes, by G — d
he would blow a lane through us. We told him that we
would not disperse. We told them that they might come
in if they would unarm themselves, but not without. One
of our men went out at the door and asked them if they
were come for war ; told them that we were come for peace,
and that we should be glad to hold a parley with them.
At that, Mr. Gale, the Clerk of the Court, drew a pistol,

held it up, and said, d- — n the parley with such d ri

rascals as you are ; I will hold no parley with such d d

rascals but by this — holding up his pistol. They gave us
very harsh language ; told us we should be in hell before
morning, but after a while they drew a little off from the
house and seemed to be in consultation. Three of us

221

CORRESPONDENCE, PROCEEDINGS, kc, MARCH, 1775.

222

went out to treat with them ; hut the most, or all that we
could gef from them was, that they would not talk with

such d d rascals as we were, and we soon returned to

the house and they soon went off.

Colonel Chandler came in and we laid the case hefore
him, and told him that we had his word that there should
not be any arms brought against us. He said that the arms
Were brought without his consent, but he would go and take
them away from them, and we should enjoy the house un-
disturbed until morning, and that the Court should come in
the morning without arms, and should hear what we had
to lay before them, and then he went away. We then
went out of the house and chose a Committee, which drew
up Articles to stand for, and read them to the company,
and they were voted nem. con. dis., and some of our men
went to the neighbours, and as many as the Court and their
party saw they bound.

About midnight, or a little before, the sentry at the door
espied some men with guns, and he gave the word to man
the doors and the walk was crowded. Immediately the
Sheriff and his company marched up fast, within about
ten rods of the door, and then the word was given, take
care, and then, fire ! Three fired immediately. The word

fire was repeated ; G — d d n you, fire ; send them to

hell, was most or all the words that were to be heard for
some time ; on which there were several men wounded ;
one was shot with four bullets, one of which went through
his brain, of which wound he died next day. Then they
rushed in with their guns, swords, and clubs, and did most
cruelly mammock several more, and took some that were
not wounded, and those that were, and crowded them all
into close prison together, and told them that they should
all be in hell before the next night, and that they did wish
that there were forty more in the same case with that dying
man. When they put him into prison they took and
dragged him as one would a dog, and would mock him as
he lay gasping, and make sport for themselves at his dying
motions. The people that escaped took prudent care to
notify the people in the County, and also in the Govern-
ment of New-Hampshire and the Bay, which being justly
alarmed at such an unheard-of and aggravated piece of
murder, did kindly interpose in our favour.

On Tuesday, the 14th instant, about twelve o'clock,
nearly two hundred men, well armed, came from New-
Hampshire Government, and before night there were several "
of the people of Cumberland County returned and took up
all they knew of, that were in the horrid massacre, and con-
fined them under a strong guard ; and afterwards they con-
fined as many as they could get evidence against, except
several that did escape for their lives. On the 1 5th instant,
the body formed chose a Moderator and Clerk, and chose
a Committee to see that the Coroner's Jury of inquest
were just, impartial men; which Jury, on their oath, did
bring in, that W. Patterson, &.c, Stc, did, on the 13th of
March instant, by force and arms, make an assault on the
body of William French, then and there lying dead, and
shot him through the head with a bullet, of which wound
he died, and not otherwise. Then the criminals were con-
fined in close prison, and, on the evening of the same day,
and early the next morning, a large number came from the
Southern part of the County of Cumberland and the Bay
Province. It is computed that in the whole there were
five hundred good martial soldiers, well equipped for war,
that had gathered. On the 16th instant the body assem-
bled, but being so numerous that they could not do busi-
ness, there was a vote passed to choose a large Committee
to represent the whole, and that this Committee should
consist of men who did not belong to the County of Cum-
berland, as well as of those that did belong thereto: which
was done. After the most critical and impartial examina-
tion of evidence, voted, that the heads of them should be
confined in Northampton Jail, till they could have a fair
trial, and those that did not appear so guilty, should be
under bonds, holden to answer at the next Court of Oyer
and Terminer, in the County aforesaid ; which was agreed
to. On the 17th instant, bonds were taken for those that
were to be bound, and the rest set out under a strong guard
for Northampton.

We, the Committee aforesaid, embrace this opportunity
to return our most grateful acknowledgments and sincere
thanks to our truly wise and patriotick friends in the Govern-

ment of JSvic-] lamps/iire and the Massachusetts-Bay, for
their kind and benevolent interposition in our favour, at such
a time of distress and confusion aforesaid ; strongly assuring
them that we shall be always ready for their aid and assist"
ance, if by the dispensation of Divine Providence we are
called thereto.

Signed by order of the Committee:

Reuben Jones, Clerk.

TO THE HONOURABLE JAMES WALLACE, ESQ,., COMMANDER
OF HIS MAJESTY'S SHIP ROSE, NEWPORT.

Freetown, March 23, 1775.

Honourable Sir : Since my w riting the lines on the
21st, by Mr. Phillips, many insults and threats are, and
have been made against those soldiers which have taken
our arms and train, and exercise in the King's name ; and
on Monday next the Captains muster at the south part of
the Town, when we have great reason to fear thousands of
the rebels will attack them, and take our lives, or the
King's arms, or perhaps both. I, Sir, ask the favour of
one of His Majesty's Tenders, or some other vessel of
force might be at or near Bowers', in order if any of our
people should be obliged to retreat, they may be taken on
board. Nothing but the last extremity will oblige them
to quit the ground. I am your obedient, humble servant,

Thomas Gilbert.

Guilford (Connecticut) committee.
^ Whereas there is inserted in the Connecticut Journal, of
February 22d, 1775, an extract of a letter from Martinico,
dated December 21st, 1774, mentioning Captain Griffin's
arrival there, in a vessel of Mr. Morgan's, belonging to
Killingsworth, with fourteen Sheep ; by which it is repre-
sented said Griffin has violated the American Association ;
notwithstanding he has endeavoured to satisfy the publick,
by stating the several matters of fact in said Journal of
March the Sth, 1775, (to which no answer has appeared,)
yet he is concerned to clear his character in said affair;
and therefore has this day called on the Committee of In-
spection for this place, from whence he last sailed, to con-
sider the matter, as to the time and circumstances attending
his carrying said Sheep, and on hearing the whole, we are
of opinion, that said Griffin has not violated said Asso-
ciation ; and therefore do acquit and recommend him to the
favourable acceptance of the publick.

Dated in Guilford, this 23d day of March, 1775.

David Landon, Cleric.

TO THE INHABITANTS OF THE MASSACHUSETTS-BAy.
NO. VI.

Boston, March 23, 1775.

My Friends and Countrymen :

It is common for the solicitous, and honest inquirer after
truth, to suspend his judgment until he becomes acquainted
with the arguments on both sides of the question. But to
demonstrative certainty there can be but one side only.
And this, I think, we have already seen, to be plain, smooth,
and as conspicuous as the beaming of the sun at noon-day.
In matters of probability there are often counter argu-
ments, mutually destroying each other, where the less being
deducted from the greater, the assent of the mind is strong
in proportion to the excess of evidence. If there are, fn
the nature of things, any real objections to our claim of
Parliamentary independence, as defined in a past number,
we may reasonably expect to find them in the publications
of the toryistical champion, Massachusettcnsis. Like a ve-
teran in the service, he has erected a fortress, and played
briskly from his batteries, upon this subject, in three suc-
cessive papers. From the great roar, and little execution,
there is reason to expect his design was to raise a smoke,
which might conceal a forlorn party from the enemy's eye,
and so secure a difficult retreat. Persuaded 1 am, if we
can once reach his strong holds, by removing the rubbish
and lumber which is artfully strewed to embarrass access,
with a small force we can soon force his intrenchments.

To avoid prolixity, I shall not dwell upon such matters
as fall within the reasoning and principles which we have
already established, leaving you to your own recollection,
and natural penetration upon a bare reference.

223

CORRESPONDENCE. PROCEEDINGS, &c, MARCH. 1775

224

It may be of use to premise, that the question we have
been examining, and which is still under consideration, is,
whether we are in truth a part of the British Empire, in
such a sense, as to be subject to her supreme authority in
all cases whatever? Whether this subjection is lit and
necessary on principles of rectitude and policy, is a dis-
tinct matter. Admitting this to be true, it is a good rea-
son why we should immediately unite, but no evidence that
we are already united. Nor is the question, whether a
submission to ministerial measures be dangerous and ruin-
ous, or forcible opposition to the regulating laws eligible
and effectual. These matters are worthy your serious
consideration. Our first attention ought to be to the justice
of our cause ; then, if prudence leads us to contend, we
may reasonably expect, He who is higher than the highest,
will look down with gracious approbation upon our righteous
struggle, and by breaking the jaws of proud oppressors,
take the prey even from between their teeth. It is neces-
sary that the above distinctions be kept constantly in view,
as they will secure us from a confusion of ideas on the one
hand, and enable us to distinguish between reasoning and
fallacy on the other, in publications where they are artfully
confounded.

After a long parade upon miscellaneous subjects our
designing reasoner fairly opens to the point. Says he, " the
Colonies are a part of the British Empire." In support of
which, he produces the opinion of the best writers upon the
Law of Nations : that when a Nation takes possession of a
distant country and settles there, that country, though sepa-
rated from the principal establishment, or mother country,
naturally becomes a part of the state, equal with its ancient
possessions." The truth of this principle may be allowed
with safety to our argument. For the conclusion, that a
country, though separated from the principal establishment,
becomes a part of the mother state, is general, depending
upon an antecedent reason resulting from a particular state
of facts in a number of similar instances, and therefore
cannot be applied to cases not only dissimilar in general,
but also in those particular circumstances upon which alone
its whole force depends. The antecedent stale of facts,
which is assigned as a reason, by the civilians themselves,
in support of their conclusion, is " a Nation's taking posses-
sion of a country, and settling there." It is an invariable
rule in logick, which our sophister is well acquainted with,
that if the antecedent position of the argument is untrue or
contradicted, the conclusion of course depending thereon
falls to the ground. We have already shown that this
Country was taken possession of by individuals, and by
them settled at their own risk and private expense, and
not by the Nation as a Nation. So that this principle car-
ries meat in its mouth, as is sometimes said ; and in the
application of our logical genius, to use his own language,
is felo de se, destroys itself; for being without the reason,
we cannot be within his conclusion.

The above-cited opinion not only fails of proving our
connection in any degree whatever ; but no argument can
be adduced pertinent to our present subject from any pre-
cedents in ancient history, as the settlement of the Ame-
rican Colonies was undertaken from views, and accom-
panied with circumstances, singular, and perfectly dissimi-
lar to those which influenced colonization in the more
early ages of the world. We have not yet done with the
above-cited opinion. Something worse is still behind. It
not only fails of serving the purpose of him who adduced
it, but so far as it applies to the subject, it descends with
its whole force directly against him. For the implication
is violent, by a fair construction, that the opinion of the
best writers on the Law of Nations is in favour of our being
separate from the Mother Country, if this Colony was not
taken possession of and settled by the English Nation as
such. This is apparent, not only from the force of words,
and thread of reasoning as explained above; but also from
their express positions, that individuals have a right to
abandon the jurisdiction of a State, and settle in some
vacant part of the world, and thereby recover their datura]
freedom. The argument holds still stronger where the
country moved to was in the prior occupacy of a foreign
Nation, and honestly purchased of the occupants by the
persons emigrating, as in the present instance. Therefore
the authority of those writers, if they are consistent with
themselves, is clearly in support of the doctrine of inde-

pendence. For I appeal to every man's private know-
ledge of the rise and progress of this Country. You have
heard, my dear countrymen, you well know, your fathers
have told you, nor will it be hid from your children, or the
generations to come, the wonderful transactions of our vir-
tuous predecessors, who, under the blessing of Providence,
after they had been from one nation to another, from one
kingdom to another people, came and took possession of
this land, wandering in it hungry and thirsty, naked and
cold, finding no city to receive them, no house to repose
in, no aid from their forsaken parent, a few in number sur-
viving the accumulated hardships, they and their posterity
settled and defended it, in their own right, at their own
risk and expense against the horrid attacks of nations,
savage, heathen, delighting in havock and in blood. Nay,
I will venture to appeal to Massachusettensis himself, to his
oracle of infallibility, the author of the history of this
Province; these are his words, speaking of the war with
Philip, in which many valuable lives were lost. Says
he, " Fighting made soldiers. As soon as the inhabitants
had a little experience of the Indian way of fighting,
they became a match for them. An addition to their num-
bers they did not want. Be that as it may, this is certain,
that as the Colony ivas at first settled, so it was now jnc-
servcd from ruin without any charge to the Mother Coun-
try." What are your feelings ? Does not strong convic-
tion arrest your minds ? Does not reason and passion join
their voice ? Look to the graves of our slaughtered ances-
tors ; they will open their mouths, and teach us freedom's
price in serious lessons wrote with blood.

Thus our silver-tongued disputant, (1 had almost said
doubled-tongued,) imagining that he had, or that a particu-
lar class of courtfidians would believe he had, proved,
that the Colonies were a part of the British Empire, by
an argument that concludes directly in his teeth, so far as
it applies; he justly observes that two supreme indepen-
dent authorities cannot exist in the same state, as it would
be imperium in impcrio, the height of political absurdities ;
and thence infers, as well he might, our entire subjection to
the uncontrollable power of the parent State. We may,
in our turn, retort this argument with additional force, and,
in his own way, prove we are not a part of the British
Empire, by the following plain demonstrated position, viz :
The Colonies are not subject to the supreme authority of
Great Britain. The greatest statesmen and sages in the
law of the past and present age, tell us that representation
is commensurate with legislation — that they are inseparably-
joined by God himself in an eternal league. Two supreme
independent authorities cannot exist in the same State.
The Colonies are not represented in the supreme legisla-
tive court of the Parent Country. If then we are not
subject to the superlative power of the British State, we
are not part of the British Realm or Empire. What, my
friends, becomes of this famous argument urged by Massa-
chusettensis, which is introduced with so much pomposity,
with such artful encomiums on the British Constitution, as
would, he seems to hope, reconcile one to slavery for the
sake of being governed by King, Lords, and Commons ;
which is managed with such a career of words, and backed
with such argumentative similes, taken from the economy
of the human body, as would, he may think, induce the
Colonists cheerfully to become the slaves of British sub-
jects, if not the servants of British slaves.

To remove all scruples respecting the matter, our writer
in his next paragraph, without attempting to prove it,
boldly asserts : It is beyond a doubt that it was both the
sense of the Parent Country and our ancestors, that they
were to remain subject to Parliament. It is evident, says
he, from the Charter itself, and this authority has been
exercised by Parliament from time to time, almost ever
since the first settlement of the Country, and has been
expressly acknowledged by our Provincial Legislatures.
1 presume he never has, nor ever will he, or his posterity
find a single instance where the authority of Parliament
to bind us in all cases whatsoever has been acknowledged
by our Provincial Assemblies. They have, and do now,
admit the right of regulating trade, from the necessity of
the ease, and the fitness and rectitude of the measure.
And if his ipse dixit is to be the rule of political faith, he
might as well have told us, that it was the sense of our
ancestors, and the Parent State, that we should be subject

225

CORRESPONDENCE, PROCEEDINGS, &c, MARCH, 1775.

226

to the Grand Seignior of Turkey, where the people, as well
as the country, are the property of the Emperour, every
man's fortune and -life being solely at his disposal, without
the least check or restraint. " But it is evident from the
Charter itself," says he. Where is the evidence ? Is it
not as evident from the Alcoran or Church Liturgy ?
These matters we have already considered in other papers,
to which I refer you.

He then admits there is one specious argument in our
favour ; but, says he, it leads to such absurdities as de-
monstrate its fallacy. It is this : " The Americans are
entitled to all the privileges of an Englishman ; it is the
privilege of an Englishman to be exempt from all laws that
he does not consent to, in person, or by representative ; the
Americans are not represented in Parliament, and therefore
are not subject to its authority." I suspect, my country-
men, we have not been conversant enough in the school of
absurdities to be able to detect the fallacy of this obstinate,
this unwieldy argument. However, nil desperandum Mas-
sachusettense duce. " If (says our arch reasoner) the Colo-
nies are not subject to the authority of Parliament, Great
Britain and the Colonies must be distinct States, as com-
pletely so as England and Scotland were before the union,
or as Great Britain and Hanover are now." Where, in
the name of common sense, is the absurdity of Great Bri-
tain and the Colonies being distinct States, united under
one common Sovereign, seeing Scotland was so once, and
Hanover is so now ? The very instances that he adduces
to illustrate his absurdities with, prove to demonstration
that there is no absurdity in the supposition. An absurdity
consists in a supposition or declaration inconsistent with the
truth of fact, or the possible relation of things. But, says
he, " in this case the Colonies will owe no allegiance to
the imperial Crown, and perhaps not to the person of the
King." Our subtile manager has not told us, and I dare
say never will, where the inconsistency is in not owing alle-
giance to the King, or point out the absurdities deducible
from thence. Finding he could not get along with his
reductio ad absurdum, he, like a person thoroughly ac-
quainted with the futility of his argument, prudently chose
to waive the subject. There is not only no absurdities
deducible from the supposition of our owing no allegiance
to the imperial Crown, but it is not true that this conse-
quence follows from his premises, there being no connexion
between our being independent of Parliament, and the
inference drawn from thence. Let us examine it. A King
of England, as such, is a political entity. He has two
distinct capacities, or bodies ; the one natural, in common
with other men, and subject to like passions ; the other a
body politick, consisting of those constitutional powers,
prerogatives, and capacities which he derives from his
subjects as their Sovereign. This latter body never dies.
Upon the dissolution of the natural, which is called the
demise of the King, the body political is transferred or
conveyed over from the deceased to another natural body ;
the name of King being a term of continuance. He forms
one of the three distinct powers, or bodies, which are en-
tirely independent of each other, composing the supreme
power or legislative authority of the Empire. The Lords
spiritual and temporal is another, and aristocratical branch,
distinct and independent. The House of Commons is a
third democratical power, freely chosen by the people
from among themselves. These three constitute that
aggregate body called the British Parliament, whose
sovereignty is constitutionally over all its constituents. By
what principle in logick, then, by what hair-breadth argu-
ment, can be inferred a subjection to the two last of those
powers, or to all three in concert, from an allegiance to the
first ? Where is the middle term that enforces the conclu-
sion? Where the intermediate idea that shows the con-
nexion ? If there are none, (and I defy him to show any,)
where, upon his own principles, is the mighty absurdity of
Great Britain and the Colonies being distinct States,
having one common Sovereign? To strengthen the sup-
position, I would ask, whether the Peers of the Realm,
who sit in the House of Lords, are Peers of America?
This noble independent order are the Representatives of
all the Commons in the Kingdom ; and, like the House of
Commons, can give their assent to no law which does not
bind themselves equally with all the other members of the
community. This is one of the principal securities to the

Fourth Series. — Vol. ii. U

people against oppression. But where is the American's
security ? On their supposition, avarice and ambition un-
checked, is the guardian of his property ; arbitrary will,
and perhaps sportive caprice, the tenure by which he
draws his breath.

The next inference that our indefatigable writer makes
against us is, that by possibility we may owe no allegiance
to the person of the King, that is, to the King of England,
in no capacity whatever. Where he gets this conclusion,
or how he draws it, I dare not hazard a conjecture, unless
it be that he conjured it up with that huge group of verbose
absurdities through which we have just now forced our
way. Admitting it to be deducible from a state of facts,
there is no inconsistency in the whole affair. And I will
venture to say, that he who possesses such a facility at
drawing of consequences, fas vel nefas, well knows that
premises established are not to be invalidated by deductions
therefrom. It is therefore unnecessary at this time to in-
quire, whether allegiance be in fact due to the person of
the King, or to the British Crown. This is the less neces-
sary, as Massachusettensis himself seemed to think there
was no difficulty in getting over his own objection, after he
had made it. It was the opinion of Lord Voice and others,
the first in fame, that allegiance is due to the former.
Either supposition is perfectly consistent with the Ameri-
can plan of independence. The latter we have above
shown to be so. Allegiance to the person of the King is
admitted to be so. Charles the First, who titled himself
at the head of our former Charter, King of England, Scot-
land, France, and Ireland, Defender of the Faith, &c,
stipulated for himself and his Royal successors, by which
the inhabitants of this Colony became his liege subjects,
and he their acknowledged Sovereign. Now, although per-
sonal allegiance may be due, yet it is evident, both from
the words of the Charter, its design and subject-matter,
which is the best key for construction, that British royalty
was a necessary qualification, and an English Crown an
essential appendage of the person who is constitutionally
the Sovereign of this Province. The person upon the
Throne of England, by virtue of the British Constitution,
is our rightful Sovereign, by virtue of our Provincial Char-
ters, not because he is King of England, but because our
Constitution vests the sovereignty of this Province in the
person who is designated by a British Crown and an Eng-
lish Sceptre.

It is obvious to observe here, that when our Charter
was granted, and after, until the reign of Queen Anne,
England and Scotland were two perfectly distinct and
totally independent States, the supreme power of each
being lodged in a Parliament of its own. Charles the First
being a Prince common to both States, formed one branch
of the supreme legislative authority in both Kingdoms. If,
therefore, our becoming subject to this Prince brought us
within the jurisdiction of the English Parliament, upon the
principles of the Tories, for the same reason it subjected
us to the sovereign power of the Scottish legislators, and of
consequence exposed us to the service of two masters, to
the distraction and misery of double legislation and com-
plicated taxation — as great a political curse as can be in
reserve in the store of Heaven for any people under its broad
canopy. I have something further to say on this curious
paper. From the County of Hampshire.

NANSEMOND COUNTY (VIRGINIA) COMMITTEE.

March 24, 1775.

However disagreeable and unhappy it is to hold up for
publick censure the conduct of any man, yet when we con-
sider the present unfortunate disputes between the Mother
Country and her Colonies would probably, in the result, be
the ruin of both, if some timely, judicious, and wise me-
thods were not contrived to effect a reconciliation, and
adjust the lamentable differences; we cannot but think that
all those who endeavour to frustrate, and labour to counter-
act such laudable ends, are enemies to America, no friends
to the excellent Constitution of England, and strictly merit
the censure and disesteem of all lovers of their Country,
freedom, and just rights. We, therefore, the Committee
for the County of Nansemond aforesaid, in obedience to the
eleventh Article of the Association, as well as for the above-
mentioned reasons, think it our duty to publish the beha-

227

CORRESPONDENCE, PROCEEDINGS, &c, MARCH, 1775.

228

viour (respecting the Association, &tc.) of the Reverend
John Agnciv. Rector of Suffolk Parish, in this County, as
it appeared from the testimony of William Cowpcr and
Solomon Shepherd, Esquires, Messrs. James Murdaugh,
Willi* Hardgraves, Thomas Minion, Jonathan Smith,
and Major Thomas Godwin, taken before us this 6th day
of March, at Suffolk.

Mr. Agncw being first summoned to attend, but refused,
Mr. Shepherd declared, that upou his remonstrating to the
said Agnew how disagreeable it was to his audience in
general, and to himself in particular, to hear the Associa-
tion, and those who had come into it, abused from the
pulpit in the sermons he there preached, desired that he
would in future desist therefrom. His answer was, " If
you do not like such sermons, you can only leave your
seat ;" and to the same gentleman said, that the Delegates
of the Provincial Congress had rebelled in all their Re-
solves. In presence of Major Thomas Godwin and Cap-
tain William Cowpcr, he asserted, as his opinion, that it
was no hardship to be carried beyond sea for trial of crimes
committed here. Mr. Hardgraves has frequently heard
him (when speaking of the Congress) declare that all such
combinations and associations were detestable. Mr. Min-
ton says, that after condemning the present Association, he
produced one of his own, and in his presence offered it for
signing. In a conversation bis Reverence had with Mr.
S'mith, he affirmed our gentlemen (meaning, as Smith took
it, the gentlemen of the General Congress) knew not what
they were about ; that to resist the King and Parliament
was rebellion, and that the proceedings of the General
Congress were resisting the King and Parliament; that the
designs of the great men were to ruin the poor people ;
and that, after a while, they wouJd forsake them, and lay
the whole blame on their shoulders, and by this means
make tbem slaves. Upon Smith's doubting how all this
extraordinary villany could be brought about, " Why (says
the parson) they have already begun ; for the Committee
of Suffolk has invaded private property ; they have taken
goods from a man of Carolina, and sold them against his
will." He likewise informed Mr. Smith there was an
Association of the other party up the Country, and the
people signing it very fast ; that they had discovered their
errour in signing the present one, and that he would see
this fact published in the Norfolk paper shortly.

We have now related the substance of what the above
named gentlemen declared upon their oaths, and here we
could wish to end this narrative ; but we have too much
regard for our own characters to suffer them to be injured
by so barefaced a slander as appears in Smith's testimony,
respecting the Carolina gentleman and his goods. The
truth of that transaction is precisely this : Mr. Samuel
Donaldson, merchant, and one of the Committee of this
County, informed some of the members that his friend,
Mr. John Thompson, merchant of North- Carolina, had
imported some goods into this Colony, which come under
the tenth Article of the Association, and desired that a
Committee might be held to determine what should be
done with them ; and Mr. Donaldson (that Mr. Thomp-
son might suffer as little inconvenience as possible from the
detention of the goods) advertised them to be sold on the
same day that the Committee was to sit. At the time ap-
pointed we met, when Mr. Thompson was present, and, on
examining him and some letters he produced, we found that
by the importation of these goods he had not violated any
of the articles of the Association. And although we were
not entirely pleased with Mr. Donaldson's advertising the
sale of the goods before he had orders from us so to do,
yet we ordered them to be sold under the care and direc-
tion of three gentlemen of the Committee. Mr. Thompson
bought the goods, expressed himself highly satisfied, and
insisted on our partaking of a cheerful bowl with him.

Upon the whole the publick will plainly discover the
principles this reverend gentleman entertains, and in what
light he views the general Resolutions adopted and entered
into for our relief from the oppressive hand of power. Had
this zealous advocate for despotick rule been as assiduous
in the discharge of the several duties of his function as he
has been industrious m propagating false and erroneous
principles, not only in private discourse, but in blending
detestable tenets in his angry orations from the pulpit, in
order to gain a party in opposition to. the common cause,

and thereby lending his little aid to seduce the very people
that gave him bread to a state of wretchedness, this Com-
mittee had not been at the trouble to examine the eleventh
Article of the Association, and opening his conduct to the
censure of the world.

John Gregorie, Clerk of the Committee.

VOTE PASSED BY THE COMMITTEE OF CORRESPONDENCE
OF WORCESTER COUNTY, (MASS.,) MARCH 24, 1775.

As a number of Towns in this County have not been
publickly represented in this Convention, it is therefore
recommended that the attendance of one or more members
of the several Towns therein be given at their future meet-
ings ; and that they do not depart without leave when
assembled, until an adjournment or dissolution thereof.

The Convention of the Committees of Correspondence
of this County stands adjourned to tlve second Tuesday of
June instant, at ten o'clock, A. M., at the Court-House,
Worcester. By order of the County Committee :

William Young, Chairman.

TO THE PRINTERS OF THE MASSACHUSETTS GAZETTE.

Worcester, March 24, 1775.

Having seen a publication* in the Massachusetts Gazette
of the 9th instant, relative to my conduct in resigning my
command as Colonel of a Regiment, Stc, 1 think it not
improper to give the publick the following true state of the
matter, viz: I was some time ago chosen Lieutenant-
Colonel of a Regiment, whereof Mr. Thomas Dcnnie, of
Leicester, was chosen Colonel. It was not without some
persuasion that I accepted of the office, being very diffi-
dent of my abilities to discharge the duties of it with that
propriety and martial dignity that the importance of the
occasion required. But putting great dependance upon the
abilities of the Colonel, I was prevailed upon to accept of
the office ; but very unfortunately for me, (as well as for
the publick,) that very worthy gentleman was soon after
suddenly taken away by death. I was then chosen Colonel
of the Regiment, and was at that time determined abso-
lutely to have refused, but was over-persuaded to accept of
the office. From that time I was much burdened with
the thoughts of our publick affairs, and the part 1 had to
act in them. At this time some persons, whom I now
think enemies to American liberty, and not friends to me,
discovered my uneasiness, and set themselves to work to
increase it, by painting the horrours of civil war and rebel-
lion in the most frightful colours, which they pretended
I was plunging myself into ; and unless I immediately
renounced the cause I was engaged in, I was ruined and
undone ; and I being (as I now think) thoroughly infatu-
ated by their delusions and insidious conduct, was led to
say, that I thought the people were wrong in the opposi-
tion they were making against the Acts of Parliament, &tc.
And at the same time declared 1 would have nothing fur-
ther to do in the matter as Colonel of the Regiment, &.c.
I have accordingly resigned my command, and made such
satisfaction to Officers of the Regiment for my behaviour
as they kindly accepted of. At which time they proceeded
to the choice of a much better man than myself to take
my place ; and the Regiment now is well-officered, as far
as I know, which gives me greater pleasure than 1 ever
felt by being at the head of it. But before I conclude, I
would just remark, that the publication of the 9th instant,
first mentioned, in some respects, is not consistent with
truth. First, the representation of my having been con-
cerned in mobs and riots, or violent measures, is invidious,
and a false calumny, for which 1 appeal to all that know
my general conduct, both Whigs and Tories. And second-
ly, to represent me as converted, when in truth and reality

* A correspondent informs us, " That Mr. Thomas Wheeler, Colonel
of a new-fangled Regiment in the County of Wmcesler, is so sensible
of his errour in being any ways concerned in the violent measures now
pursuing by our Sons of Liberty, that he has declared he will never be
concerned any further, and has resigned his command. Two of his
neighbours, namely, Captain Palmer Ooulding, and Lieutenant Corne-
lius Spawell, both of said Town, on the evening of the 2d instant, re-
turning home from a visit they had made said Wheeler, were suddenly
attacked and knocked down by two men, and most grievously beat
and wounded, and for no other reason but their being true friends to
Government, and supposed by the Sons of Liberty to be instrumental
in converting their neighbour Wheeler."

229

CORRESPONDENCE, PROCEEDINGS, &c, MARCH, 1775.

230

I was perverted, was a misrepresentation I would have
mended by your inserting an erratum, to read in the said
publication perverting, instead of converting, which will
make the passage much more agreeable to truth ; this, with
an amendment of the spelling of one of the names,* make
the latter part of the said publication tolerable enough.
However wrong I have been in any part of my conduct or
words, it is now my real opinion, that the people's cause
is good, and that the measures that they are taking and
carrying into execution, are the best and most likely means
for obtaining the redress of our grievances. And if a re-
dress cannot be had without our making the last appeal, I
stand ready and heartily willing to be one of the appellants,
to prosecute the appeal to final judgment, while I have
estate or life left. The beforegoing I am induced to pub-
lish, that the cause of liberty may not suffer by my means ;
and I have done it of my own free will and accord, and do
assure the publick I have not been constrained to do it by
force, or the threats of any man, or body of men, but have
been extremely well and kindly treated by all men that I
have had any concern with since resigning my office ; and
now enjoy the esteem and friendship of my neighbours, and
the true Whigs, which I esteem as one of the greatest
blessings in this life, and to deserve the same shall ever be
the endeavour of T. Wheeler.

TO THE PRINTER OF THE MASSACHUSETTS GAZETTE.
Worcester County, Massachusetts, March 24, 1775.

I was always sorry that our County Convention under-
took to say any thing against the reading of the productions
which appear on the contrary side of the question, for many
reasons that I could offer, if there were any need of it.
But one special reason why I think it was a pity they did
it, is, it so much intimated to the people as though they
thought there was something of force in what was said by our
opposers ; when, for my part, there appears to me so little
force in what they say, that I heartily wish every one who
gives any attention to publick affairs to make any judgment
upon them, would read all they can upon that side, that it
might more fully confirm them in their opposition to the pre-
sent measures of Administration ; when they see that all the
advocates for it can produce in favour of it is pregnant with re-
proaching of us, as being both fools and knaves, and at the
same time asserting things to be matters of fact which we
know to the contrary. When they, in their abundant affection
and professed kindness, tell us, that all we complain of is
owing to our ignorance, distempered brains, heated imagina-
tions, infatuated blindness and delusion, &tc, it does not work
in us any gratitude to them, for complimenting of us as
such distracted fools.

When they tell us, that the grievances enumerated by
the Continental Congress are barefaced falsehoods, and
that we neither see nor feel any grievances ; at the same
time our senses tell us, that what the Congress have said
are manifest truths, the Tories, thus giving our senses
the lie, do not induce us to give credit to those writers
who forbid us believing our own senses. When those
writers assert facts which we know to the contrary, it gives
us good reason to believe every thing they say is false.
This, in the enumeration of grievances of the friends of
Government, (as they fondly call themselves,) in your
paper of the 23d of February last, what is said about so
many appearing in arms at Worcester ; what was said about
Colonel Putnam and Colonel Chandler being obliged to
flee to Boston, we absolutely know was not as there repre-
sented. So also many things said by Phileirene, in your
paper of the 2d of March instant, we don't at all believe.
But especially his saying, " that all parties join in esteem-
ing General Gage as the most amiable of men, and the
best of Governours," we absolutely know to be very far
from the truth, both by the publick prints and by private
observation. Whatever General Gage may in fact be, I
don't pretend to say ; but that he is not so esteemed by all
parties, as Phileirene pretends, is a most manifest fact.
And I cannot comprehend how he should have a face to
say it, unless upon the same principle before-mentioned of
forbidding our believing our own senses ! If the publick
will not take it as an affront upon their understandings, to

•One of the names in the publication above referred to, should have
boon Stowell. instead of Spairell, » noted weaver in Wurceatrr.

illustrate that which is so plain, I will offer a few words,
showing the perverseness of Phileirene's remarks on the
Petition of the Congress. I will only observe on what he
says about the Mandamus Counsellors in your paper of
the 9th instant. There he pretends to make out that it is
best they should be so appointed, because, he says, if the
Council chosen by the Representatives should adopt anv
unpopular measures, they were in danger the next year of
losing their places ; as if this were a reason to convince
the people that it is best they should have no hand in
choosing them. The same reason (if I may be allowed
to scandalize the word so much as to call it reason) will
show, that our Representatives ought to be appointed by
Mandamus ; or, more properly, that we should have no
Representatives at all to assist in legislating for us. And
this is evidently what they are after ; none can avoid the
imputation, so long as they urge that the British Parlia-
ment have a right to legislate for us in all cases whatsoever,
or indeed in any case whatsoever, and plead for the justice
and right of the Parliament in their making laws to set
aside and make void our laws. So that nothing can be
more manifest, than that this Phileirene is for having us
have no voice whatsoever in choosing a legislative body for
ourselves. And it is beyond all comprehension to under-
stand why he is not ashamed to treat us as such asses,
telling us that we are not fit to have any voice in electing
any of our Officers or Legislators ; and in earnest propose
to us, to give it all up, because we are not fit to have any
thing to do with choosing them ; unless he is so mad upon
his own vanity as to persuade himself, that we will hearken
to him, rather than our own feelings and senses.

But yet it is inconceivable why he should drive so hard
to make us believe that we are such fools, that it is best
for us to give up all pretensions to any part in governing
ourselves, so much as choosing our own guardians ; for the
very moment we should do this, it would be such an evi-
dence that we were grossly non compos mentis, that the
very act of this giving up would not be binding ; and I hope
that all such as do give up to these principles of Phileirene,
will every where be so far considered non compos as not
to be admitted to any office or betrustment whatsoever;
and why it is not the duty of the Selectmen, in their re-
spective Towns, according to the Laws of this Province,
to render all such non compos, so as to prevent their doing
any mischief, and people from trading with them, I presume
no good reason can be given. Those that are so insane
as to run about, and are proper only for Bedlam, let them
run there themselves, as many have already. But suppose
we are such dunces that we must have guardians without
our choosing of them, I defy this Phileirene or any one
else to shew who made the people of Great Britain our
guardians, or how they ex-officio are such, any more than
the people of France, or even of Africa, or any other place.
As for this Phileirene, I am well satisfied who he is by his
language ; and if I rightly guess, he has left off hunting
silver by his hazle-rods of late years, and found a more
successful way of obtaining of it, and is now roused against
the Congress and Liberty, by the same spirit that the old
silversmith, Demetrius, was against the Apostles and Chris-
tianity— Acts xix. The craft by which this modern De-
metrius gets his wealth is called in question, and in danger
of being set at nought. Old Dcmetrius's complaint was,
that not°only at Ephesus, but almost throughout all Asia,
people were persuaded to believe that they were no gods
that were made with hands. And so now not only at
Boston, but almost throughout all America, it is urged, that
of right there are no laws, where there are no representa-
tion of the people for whom they are pretended to be
made. And it seems this modern Demetrius has got those
of his own occupation together, and is endeavouring to set
the City in an uproar ; but I hope he will avail no farther
than to have those of his own craft cry, great is Diana of
the Ephesians, or rather, according to the modern crafts-
men, great is the Parliament of Great Britain; but I
hope those disturbers of the peace will in due time be
called in question for their uproar.

As for the Converted Whig, in your paper of the 9th
instant, we none of us believe that it is any other than a
fiction of some Tory ; he don't speak as one that ever un-
derstood Whiggism, and I defy any one to show any such
person who was ever reputed as a true Whig, that indited

231

CORRESPONDENCE, PROCEEDINGS, Sic, MARCH, 1775.

232

that piece. If he has made a change so much for the
better, as there pretended, and to give his experiences to
the world, why don't lie, as the repenting Tories so many
have done, give his name with his repentance or recanta-
tion. However, if it be really as there pretended, I don't
expect he will ever return, but it will be with him as the
wise man says it is with those that go after the strange
woman, l'rov. ii. 19: "None that go unto her return
again, neither take they hold of the paths of life."

1 had many things more that 1 thought to have wrote,
but 1 will defer them for the present, and subscribe as
before,

A Freeholder in the Count* of Worcester.

EXTRACT OF A LETTER FROM CANADA, DATED MONTREAL,
MARCH 24, 1775.

The Address from the Continental Congress attracted
the notice of some of the principal Canadians ; it was soon
translated into very tolerable French. The decent manner
in which the religious matters were touched ; the enco-
miums on the French Nation, flattered a people fond of
compliments. They begged the translator, as he had suc-
ceeded so well, to try his hand on that Address to the Peo-
ple of Great Britain. He had equal success in this, and
read his performance to a numerous audience. But when
he came to that part which treats of the new modelling of
the Province ; draws a picture of the Catholick Religion,
and the Canadian manners, they could not contain their
resentment, nor express it but in broken curses. " Oh ! the
perfidious, double-faced Congress ; let us bless and obey
our benevolent Prince, whose humanity is consistent, and
extends to all Religions ; let us abhor all who would reduce
us from our loyalty, by acts that would dishonour a Jesuit,
and whose Addresses, like their Resolves, are destructive
of their own objects."

TO THE PEOPLE OF ENGLAND.

London, March 24, 1775.

The man who set fire to a stately temple was a singular
instance of those villains who wish to be distinguished only
by their crimes, though he was by no means a rare instance
of those whom posterity can distinguish by no other traces.

By what means the late Governour of Boston may here-
after be remembered, we shall not venture to predict ; but
we may safely affirm, that if his publick vices and publick
virtues should be weighed in a balance, the latter would
kick the beam ! From early symptoms of ambition and
dissimulation, it was predicted of him that, like Paris, he
was born to be the pest of his Country. He subsisted by
merchandise, but did not thrive by it, for the business was
not suited to his temper. By the appearance of extraor-
dinary zeal for the religion and liberties of his Country, he
wrought himself into publick favour. Thus he was chosen
a Member of the Assembly, of the Council, an Assistant
Judge, and Chief Justice. After some time he was ap-
pointed Lieutenant-Governour. He now coveted the Chair.
With this object in view, he made himself necessary to
Governour Bernard; he was his counsellor and inseparable
friend. He knew very well what the people would bear
and what they would not; he cajoled and instigated poor
Bernard, till a flame was kindled about his ears. The
Seat of Government became too warm for him ; he was
obliged to flee. Governour Hutchinson succeeded to the
Chair, but Bernard had kept it too long ; it was now too
hot even for a man who seems to have been made for the
flames. 1 should have observed, that the character of a
Merchant, especially that of a Tea Dealer, not comporting
with that of a Governour, he had resigned trade into the
hands of his sons. In this manner he and his family were
situated when the ill-fated Tea arrived at Boston. The
people had lately obtained full proof of what they had for
some lime suspected, that he was their greatest enemy, and
they had petitioned to have him removed. What was now
to be done ? Unhappily his duty as Governour and the
friend of his Country was opposed to his ambition and the
interest of his family. He had made interest to have the
Tea consigned to his sons ; by suffering it therefore to come
back to England, as other Governours did, he would have
saved the Tea, and might have prevented all the calamities
that have since happened to that Country, and are soon like

to fall on the whole Nation. But then his son would have
lost a valuable commission, and what is worse, he would
have missed a fine opportunity of proving, what he had
lately asserted in one of his letters, that the people could
not be governed but by an infringement of their liberties.
By refusing to suffer the Tea to be sent back, as the people
requested, one of these events was certain — either that it
would be landed, and his sons reap the commission, or that
it would be destroyed, and himself promoted. The latter
has taken place. The City in which Governour Hutchin-
son was born is become a garrison ; the inhabitants are
ruined ; but he himself is pensioned. Is there a human
breast that would not feel for the wretched inhabitants of
Boston? Poor labourers and tradesmen, with their wives
and children, suffering under the general calamity, and
perishing by thousands, or else protracting a miserable life
by licking the cold hand of charity. But one should
imagine Governour Hutchinson thought that misery was
dealt out witli too sparing a hand. Does he wish to see
the whole Country involved in the fate of Boston 1 Would
he do more? Would he filch the beggar's scrip, and give
him the coup de grace 1

I am not so little acquainted with the present Administra-
tion, as to imagine that any thing is either too cruel, or too
iniquitous for them to attempt; but the present Fish Bill,
or rather the Starving Bill, is one that they certainly would
never have attempted, unless Governour Hutchinson had
recommended it as a measure that would produce certain
obedience. His former predictions have not been verified ;
the change of Government, and an Army into the bargain,
have not mended matters, but made them worse. What
shall be the next expedient? His friendly advice was
still ready : " Send over a few more Regiments, and let
them exert themselves properly. Take off a few of the
inhabitants by the sword, and a few by famine ; the rest
will sign a charte blanche."

I am aware that the creature I have been describing is
so different from the common form of humanity, that it
may be questioned whether I have fairly copied the origi-
nal : but I write history, not fables. I have given only the
outlines ; was it necessary, I could finish the piece, with
many other striking lines and shades ; I could tell how-
early and how often he has visited Mr. Jenkinson, and
every one of the junto, within the last three months ; but I
despise such indirect proof. Not three weeks ago I heard
him say, in a large company, " that the New-England
people do not yet believe that Government is in earnest ;
that they have only been blustering ; and that General
Gage's inactivity has flattered their pride ; but, as soon as
the other Troops shall arrive, when His Majesty's stand-
ard shall be erected, and the Province declared to be in
rebellion, and a few of the leaders taken up, he would
stake his life that the people would surrender, and submit
to any kind of discipline."

When we know what part this man has acted, as if to
hasten the present catastrophe ; when we consider what
advice he continues to give, and hear him talking in such
strains, as if to promote sanguinary measures against the
Country that gave him birth; we are tempted to hope that
some one of his ancestors was an Indian, and that Indians
are a different race of men. Nestor.

to d*»* c ***** , ESQ..

New -Jersey, March 25, 1775.

Dear Sir : Since the writing of my former letter, we
have been agreeably entertained with intelligence from
London, favourable to the good cause, in which not only
these Colonies, but Great Britain and all her other depen-
dencies are so deeply interested, I congratulate you, and
the rest of the friends to the Constitution on the receipt of
these, and every other appearance in our favour. Permit
me to enumerate a few of these ; for a proper and general
attention to them would do much toward strengthening our
union, and defeating the base designs of those who oppose
the general good. And the first thing to be remarked is,
the greatness of the union subsisting among ourselves, on
which, under Providence, depends our greatest hope of
success. This union appeared remarkably in the senti-
ments of all the Colonies respecting the propriety and
necessity of appointing Delegates to meet in General Con-

233

CORRESPONDENCE, PROCEEDINGS, &c, MARCH, 1775.

234

gress ; and since, in their appointing so many men, who,
when met, were so exactly suited to one another in senti-
ments, as they in fact were. For when Representatives
are properly chosen, without bribery or any other undue
influence, they naturally carry with them the sentiments
of their electors, from whom they also receive the outlines
of their conduct in general directions. When these Dele-
gates met, they began their solemn and important business
by bowing themselves before the great Sovereign of the
Universe, to whom they could, with a pure conscience,
appeal as to the justice of their cause, and on whom
they, in the use of proper means, depended for all that assist-
ance which was necessary to ensure success ; and for this
they humbly implored the Divine clemency and goodness.
At the same time, or as near it as the Provinces could
judge, there were many hundreds of congregations of their
constituents beseeching Almighty Goodness for the same
divine aid. They believed their cause was His, and could
therefore go boldly to the Throne of Grace.

Here, Sir, is union. A Continent on their knees, im-
ploring the alliance of God ! This is an appearance favour-
able to us. And in this view the enemies of America
might do well to remember the advice of Gamaliel. Let
us revolve in our minds the proceedings of this Congress,
and see what appearances here are favourable to us. Cau-
tion, justice, loyalty, knowledge, moderation, wisdom, bene-
volence, deliberation, humanity, resolution, fortitude, self-
denial, self-defence, piety ; and to crown the whole, a
remarkable union in all these. Ancient Rome, in her
highest pitch of power and glory, never produced an as-
sembly of worthies better qualified to govern an Empire
than these. The desire of this Congress appears evidently
to be, that all the disturbances, divisions, confusions, ill-will,
and oppression in the whole of His Majesty's Dominions
should cease ; and that peace, union, and harmony, with
constitutional liberty, and a just dependance of one part on
the other, should exist throughout the whole of this great
Empire, which they desire should be governed in all its
parts by his present Majesty George the Third, and a Pro-
testant succession in his family, together with such legis-
lative powers, as are, by the British Constitution and
Provincial Charters, established.

No wise and good man, I conceive, when once truly
and sufficiently acquainted with their designs, as stated
above, can wish that they should be defeated. If we pur-
sue this union in the resolutions of the Congress, to their
being put into execution in the several united Provinces,
we shall find that it prevails against all opposition, and that
the opposers of congressional measures are comparatively
but very few. I do not at present recolleet more than
three Towns in the opposition in all the four Provinces of
New-England, and those none of the most considerable.
The names, in tenderness to the virtuous part of their in-
habitants, are here omitted. However, considering the
measures taken with them by their wiser neighbours, it is
very probable they will soon be brought to a sense of their
errour, and will return to their duty.

In this and the Southern Provinces, I believe the Oppo-
sition is full as small. Some few places in the Province
of New -York are delinquent; but they appear to be
returning to their duty. The City and County of New-
York have been esteemed by far the most so : but by a
late fair trial, it appears that there are more than five to one
in favour of the Congress. And this probably will break
the heart of all the Opposition in America. The news
from Great Britain and the tVest-India Islands, so favour-
able to us, will contribute much to the same valuable pur-
pose. Some indeed have lately attempted to land goods
in America contrary to the Association of the Congress ;
but such is the vigilance of those excellent inspectors, the
Committees of New-York and Elizabethtoicn, and such
the awful guilt of the delinquents, that they could not be
hid. They have confessed their fault, and laid a heavy
fine upon themselves for their base conduct. Another
person concerned in the same dark affair is also detected,
and will, it is thought, be sufficiently punished. In fine,
if we continue to pursue the whole measures of the Con-
gress, the merchants and manufacturers in England, and
the West-India islanders will do all in their power to pro-
cure a redress of all our grievances. And we have great,
great reason to hope that, by the favourable interposition

of Divine Providence, their united endeavours will soon
produce the desired effect.

I remain, dear Sir, yours and the Constitution's friend,

Essex.

Marblehead, March 25, 177.r>.

W hereas, I the subscriber, in open violation of the Con-
tinental Association, did, on the 25th current, purchase of
Simon Tufts, of Boston, a small quantity of Tea, and
thereby justly brought on myself the resentment of the
publick : I do now in this publick manner ask their pardon,
and do solemnly promise I will not in future be guilty of a
like offence. The Tea I have voluntarily committed to
the flames in presence of a respectable number of my
townsmen. Thomas Lilly.

The Committee of Inspection of this Town, from the
penitent behaviour of the above Thomas Lilly, and the
above confession, which he himself publishes, determine
that he may be justly entitled to the esteem and employ
of all persons as heretofore.

By order of the Committee of Inspection :

John Sparhawk, Clerk.

Committee Chamber, Boston, March 31, 1775.

Information having been given to the Committee of In-
spection of this Town, that Mr. Simon Tufts, of this
Town, merchant, had broke the Continental Association,
by selling Tea to Thomas Lilly, of Marblehead, on the
25th of March current, the Committee made inquiry into
the truth of said report, and after a strict examination of
said Tufts of three credible persons, could obtain no other
account but the following, which we have caused to be
published under oath, for the satisfaction of the publick,
agreeable to the design of our appointment.

" Whereas an advertisement appeared in the Essex Ga-
zette of the 28th instant, signed Thomas Lilly, informing
that he purchased a small quantity of Tea of me, the sub-
scriber: For the justification of my character, and satisfac-
tion of tlte publick, I think proper to give the following
slate of the affair, and do solemnly declare that the said
Lilly had the same, without my knowledge or privity, of
the person who attended at my store, and which he has
since confessed was no more than a pound and a quarter.
I have purchased no Tea since the first of March. What
1 bought was so immediately connected with an article
absolutely necessary for the Country to be possessed of,
and which they are in actual possession of, thought it justi-
fiable to purchase it with the incumbrance, and let my
friends, whose advice I had taken, partake with me therein,
esteeming the friendship of my countrymen of more conse-
quence than any benefit that could accrue to me thereby.
1 had no intention, from the beginning, of militating with
the Association of the Continental Congress, and I declare
I will not buy or sell any more of said article till a general
permission therefore takes place. If, by the above impru-
dent step with Lilly, any offence is given to my country-
men, I am sorry therefor, and hope for a restoration to their
favour and confidence. Simon Tufts.

"Boston, 30th March, 1775."

Suffolk, St. — Boston, April 1, 1775.

Then the above named Mr. Simon Tufts made oath to
the truth of the above-written declaration subscribed by
him. Before me,

Belcher Noyes, Justice of the Peace.

ORANGE COUNTY (VIRGINIA) COMMITTEE.

March 27, 1775.

The Committee of Orange County being informed that
the Reverend Mr. John Wingatc had in his possession
several pamphlets containing very obnoxious reflections on
the Continental Congress and their proceedings, and cal-
culated to impose on the unwary; and being desirous to
manifest their contempt and resentment of such writings
and their authors, assembled on Saturday, the 25th of
March, 1775, at the Court-House of the said County.
The Committee were the rather induced to meet for this
purpose, as it had also been reported that there were a
considerable number of these performances in the Country,

2? 5

CORRESPONDENCE, PROCEEDINGS, fcc, MARCH, 1775.

236

introduced amongst us in all probability to promote tbe
infamous ends for which they were written : that they were
to be sold indiscriminately at Purd'u's office in IVillinms-
burgh, and that unfavourable impressions had been made
on some people's minds by the confident assertions of
falsehoods and insidious misrepresentations of facts con-
tained in them. The intentions of the Committee were
made known to Mr. IVingate, and a delivery of the pamph-
lets requested in the most respectful manner, without the
least suspicion that Mr. IVingate had procured them with
a design to make an ill use of them, or that he would hesi-
tate a moment as to a compliance ; but, to their great sur-
prise, he absolutely refused, urging that they belonged to
Mr. Henry Mitchell, of Fredericksburgh, and he could do
nothing without his express permission. The Committee
then proceeded to expostulate with him on the subject, and
to insist upon him that, as he regarded his association-
engagements, tbe favour of the Committee, or the good of
the publick, he would not deny so reasonable a request.
They told him they would engage to make ample satisfac-
tion to Mr. Mitchell for any damage he might sustain, and
that there could not be the least reason to fear that Mr.
Mitchell would be displeased, who was well known to be
an associator, and acknowledged by himself to be a hearty
friend to the cause which these pamphlets were intended
to disparage and counteract ; and that if Mr. Mitchell was
not this hearty friend we hoped him to be, it must be an
additional argument for the Committee to press their request,
and for him to comply with it. Mr. Wingate still persist-
ed in his refusal to deliver them up, but added that he
would let the Committee have a sight of them, if they
would promise to return them unhurt. This could by no
means be agreed to, as they were justly apprehensive that
it would be their duty to dispose of the pamphlets in a
manner inconsistent with such a promise. At length the
Committee, finding there was no prospect of working on
Mr. Wingate by arguments or entreaties, peremptorily
demanded the pamphlets, with a determination not to be
defeated in their intentions. In consequence of which they
were produced to the Committee, who deferred the full
examination and final disposal of them till the Monday
following.

On Monday, the 27th instant, they again met at the
same place, according to adjournment, and after a sufficient
inquiry into the contents of five pamphlets under the fol-
lowing titles, viz: 1st, " The Congress Canvassed, fyc,"
by A. W. Farmer; 2d, " A View of the Controversy be-
tween Great Britain and her Colonies,'''' by the same ;
3d, " Free Thoughts on the Proceedings of the Continen-
tal Congress, fyc." by A Farmer; 4th, " Short Advice
to the Counties of New -York," by A Country Gentle-
man; 5th, "An Alarm to the Legislature of the Province
of New -York, fyc.;" most of them printed by Riving-
ton, of New - York:

Resolved, That as a collection of the most audacious
insults on that august body (the grand Continental Con-
gress) and their proceedings, and also on the several Colo-
nies from which they were deputed, particularly New-
England and Virginia, of the most slavish doctrines of
Provincial Government, the most impudent falsehoods and
malicious artifices to excite divisions among the friends of
America, they deserved to be publickly burnt, as a testi-
mony of the Committee's detestation and abhorrence of the
writers and their principles.

Which sentence was speedily executed in the presence
of the Independent Company and other respectable inhabi-
tants of the said County, all of whom joined in expressing
a noble indignation against such execrable publications,
and their ardent wishes for an opportunity of inflicting on
the authors, publishers, and their abetters, the punishment
due to their insufferable arrogance and atrocious crimes.
Published by order of the Committee :

Francis Taylor, Clerk.

protection as you in your wisdom shall think proper to
direct.

W e have an open harbour, on which lay the Towns of
Plymouth, Kingston, and Duxbury, extending twelve or
fifteen miles, in almost every part of which it is extremely
easy for Troops to land, commit ravages, and retreat, unless
a sufficient force is continually on duty to watch and report
them. Ever since the late alarm, the inhabitants of this
Town (apprehensive of danger) have been on almost con-
stant duty, without being able to attend to their private
affairs, the consequence of which must produce great dis-
tress, if not ruin, unless they can be relieved. Another
very peculiar circumstance attending us is, that in case we
should be attacked, no immediate aid can come to our
assistance from the back country, we being surrounded by
a wilderness, extending several miles, without any inhabi-
tants at all, and several more miles with very few and scat-
tering ones.

We therefore pray your consideration of these matters,
and that you would order the Minute Regiment under
the command of Colonel Cotton, be posted here, and that
proper provision be made for them.

We are, gentlemen, with great respect, your very hum-
ble servants. By order of the Committee and Selectmen
of the Town of Plymouth.

John Torrey, Chairman.

To the Honourable Committee of Safety for the Prov-
ince of the Massachusetts-Bay.

Plymouth (Massachusetts) committee to the com-
mittee OF SAFETY.

Plymouth, March 27, l?;;..
The Selectmen and Committee of Correspondence of
the Town of Plymouth beg leave to represent the peculiar
circumstances of this Town, and to desire such aid and

By His Excellency the Right Honourable John Earl of
Dunmore, His Majesty's Lieutenant and Governour
General of the Colony and Dominion of Virginia, and
Vice- Admiral of the same.

A Proclamation,
Virginia, to wit :

Whereas certain persons, styling themselves Delegates
of several of His Majesty's Colonies in America, having
presumed, without His Majesty's authority or consent, to
assemble together at Philadelphia in the months of Sep-
tember and October last, have thought fit, among other
unwarrantable proceedings, to resolve that it will be neces-
sary that another Congress should be held at the same
place on the 10th of May next, unless redress of certain
pretended grievances be obtained before that time, and to
recommend that all the Colonies in North America should
choose Deputies to attend such Congress, I am commanded
by the King, and I do accordingly issue this my Proclama-
tion, to require all Magistrates and other Officers to use
their utmost endeavours to prevent any such appointments
of Deputies, and to exhort all persons whatever within this
Government to desist from such an unjustifiable proceeding,
so highly displeasing to His Majesty.

Given under my hand and the seal of the Colony, this
28th day of March, in the fifteenth year of His Majesty's
reign. Dunmore.

God save the King.

remarks on lord Dartmouth's circular letter
dated JANUARY 4, 1775.

London, March, 1775.

The publication of Lord Dartmouth's Circular Letter
to the several Govemours on the Continent of America,
excites an alarm amongst the friends of liberty ; for in that
letter the battery is unmasked, the design openly avowed.
Permit me, Sir, to consider the words, the meaning, the
design, and the consequence of Lord Dartmouth's letter.

His Lordship begins thus: "Certain persons styling
themselves Delegates of His Majesty's Colonies, having
presumed." — Observe, gentle reader, the official term for-
merly used in general warrants: "certain," is a word of
great uncertainty when not applied to individuals, and, as
it is not descriptive of individuals, Lord Dartmouth will
find that these "certain persons, styling themselves Dele-
gates," are not to be intimidated by his uncertain non-
sense.

But what mighty crime have these uncertain pei-sons
presumed to commit? Why, they have not asked His
Majesty's permission to assemble at Philadelphia in order

237

CORRESPONDENCE, PROCEEDINGS, be, MARCH, 1775.

238

to consult about their own affairs ! This is the crime of
omission laid to their charge ; that of commission con-
sists in their having thought fit, amongst other unwarrant-
able things, (no other unwarrantable acts are mentioned,)
to resolve " to meet again on the 10th of May.'" What
power is there lodged in any branch of our Legislature
which can control and hinder a body of men from assem-
bling in order to consider of the most effectual methods for
alleviating their own distresses ? If neither of the branches
of the Legislature are vested with such a power, the Con-
gress in September was not assembled unlawfully ; and if it
was not unlawfully assembled, by what authority, besides
that of impudence, shall any of the King's Ministers pre-
vent a meeting not forbidden by the laws of the land ?
Lord Dartmouth may be an excellent divine, but he is a
miserable politician ; Mr. Whitfield may have qualified
him for a field preacher, but as for his politicks they are
of the Butean cast, and therefore detestable.

The Secretary goes on, and says: "Unless redress for
certain pretended grievances be obtained, the Delegates
are to meet on the 10th of May." This would be the
style of every Secretary to every arbitrary tyrant in Europe.
Pretended grievances ! What, are we fallen so low as to
be told we cannot feel, or if we can. that we are not com-
petent judges of the oppression ? This is what all tyrants
aim at; this hath been accomplished in the several Mon-
archies of the world ; and this doctrine is intended to be
inculcated in England and America. The meaning of the
words in Lord Dartmouth's letter is, that though the
Americans feel, yet shall they not dare to complain, or en-
deavour by legal measures to obtain alleviation or redress ;
this is adding cruelties and insult to injuries intolerable.
When a man is by oppression wilfully tormented, to in-
crease his pain because his sensations are exquisite and his
complaints loud, would characterize a being worse even
than what our imaginations can form in idea ; yet this
character the pious, the preaching, the saint-like Lord
Dartmouth assumes throughout his whole letter ! Is it
necessary in becoming a Minister to cease to feel as a man ?
And must every tender sensation be obliterated because a
man holds an office, the exercise of the functions of which
are supposed to be directed to publick utility ? .

Let us next observe the style of Lord Dartmouth's let-
ter: "1 am commanded by the King to signify to you his
pleasure, that you do your utmost to prevent any such ap-
pointment of Deputies within the Colony under your Go-
vernment."

We have had too much reason to perceive, that publick
utility has given little pleasure, and therefore all meetings
to promote that must occasion great displeasure. The
Governours, however, though willing to execute the orders,
will find themselves incapable to effect what is commanded
so imperatively by this Minister of Christian meekness.
In a meeting held for the preservation of civil liberty,
nothing can be unwarrantable, unless the defeat of despotism,
in which all good men, who understand the dispute, and
are well-wishers to their species, must wish the Americans
success. Those who can dream of an English Parliament
having a right to take the money out of the pockets of the
Americans, are but ill-instructed in the principles of our
Constitution, which forbid that any man should be taxed
by an assembly wherein he is not represented. A min-
isterial champion has inculcated the reverse of the doctrine ;
but when it is known that he is retained for the purpose,
little regard will be paid to any argument such a writer
advances. Sir JVittiam Meredith and his wand, Doctor
Johnson and his pension, are alike beneath the notice of
independent men.

We are next to consider the design of Lord Dartmouth' s
letter, which is to destroy the Constitution in America,
and to institute a mode of arbitrary Government like that
in Canada, of a Governour and Council. When that is
accomplished, the people will be under the immediate sub-
jection of the Crown, and thus the vast extension of kingly
power must obliterate every remaining vestige or trace of
liberty. An establishment of this kind once effected, will
produce more evils than can be at present foreseen, though
the consequences of those evils may be deduced from com-
parison and analogy. Such of the Americans as are at
M strenuous asserters of liberty, may, from a corruption
of manners, or out of resentment of our ill treatment in

suffering them to be enslaved, join the conspirators against
the Constitution, and thus destroy what has been the envy
and the admiration of the Eurojmem world.

The Secretary for America we have been taught to look
on as a zealous, pious, and devout disciple of Christ ; yet
we see this man of holiness, not having the fear of God
before his eyes, joining with his coadjutors in an attempt
to enslave our fellow-subjects in America ! Who that re-
garded the welfare of human kind would aid in an attempt
to set up the power of any part of the Legislature over
the Constitution ? But to talk of good Government, civil
justice, or liberty, whilst Tories are at the helm, would be
like talking of righteousness in the dominions of Satan.

Ignotiis.

New-York, March 28, 1775.

Mr. Rivincton : As your paper has hitherto supported
the character of an impartial one, I send the enclosed for
publication ; if you cannot insert it, return it by the bearer.
But while a Junius can attack a Prime Minister, and a
Tribunus the King, I hope it will not be deemed treason
for an Englishman or an American to attack the petty
tyrants to whom this is with deference and respect most
humbly dedicated by the author.

TO THE COMMITTEE OE .CORRESPONDENCE DI' PHILA-
DELPHIA.

Gentlemen : You appear in a publick character, and
if the reins of Government are not devolved on you by
common consent, you have at least usurped the legisla-
tive authority. 1 shall not, then, deem it any violation of
the liberty of the Press, in this publick manner personally
to address you, and to animadvert on the contents of your
letter (dated February 16) to the Committee of this City,
lately published — an epistle which I could not peruse
without a mixture of indignation and astonishment.

The body from whence you derive your authority em-
boldens and warrants me freely to canvass all matters on
the administration of Government; and if the liberty of
the Press be not denied me, as an Englishman I will claim
tlie privilege, and undaunted by your frowns, your threats,
or your inquisition, will boldly pass such strictures on your
conduct as I conceive it merits. Your names, gentlemen,
are well known ; they are, I believe, respectable, and would
give weight to your assertions, were they not contradicted
by the most notorious and the most obstinate facts. Par-
don me if in this address I should take the liberty to relate
a few truths, truths which I well know will sound ungrate-
ful in your ears.

Your ridiculous argument of holding up an union, can-
not justify your allegations, for such an union does not
exist. It would have afforded me signal pleasure to observe
men of characters, dignified as yours are, enrolled as Com-
mittee men, and delegated by the rest, for the special pur-
pose of communicating intelligence to your neighbours,
disposed to exhibit a state of things founded on the strictest
truth. But your letter to our Committee is replete with
misrepresentation and deception, calculated rather to hood-
wink the people of this Province, than to give them a just
state of publick affairs ; you present us with a prison to
peep through, to give a glare to every object we behold.

You tell us you have seen frequent publications from this
City, containing false representations, and holding up ideas
of dissensions among you, which you have the assurance
to say do not exist.

How can you, in the face of the world, make this bold
assertion ? You must know that it is totally destitute of
foundation ; and I will venture to tell you that you must all
have had better information !

No dissensions among you ! Have not the loyal Friends
in your and the adjacent Province published their dissent
{January 24, 1775] from the mad independent Resolves of
your Republican Congress, and all your illegal and unwar-
rantable combinations ?

Is not this Society very numerous throughout your Prov-
ince, and at least as respectable as any other?

Some of your Committee have idly pretended that this
was the act of a very few, and disapproved of by the So-
ciety in general. This is a shameful reflection on the cha-
racter of the gentleman who subscribed their protest on
behalf of the whole Society.

243

CORRESPONDENCE, PROCEEDINGS, kc, MARCH, 1775.

241

For what purpose, or will) what design, such a quantity
lias, in so short a time, been purchased and exported, we
neither know nor can we conceive. The clamour raised
among the Mechanicks, by the scarcity of Nails during the
continuance of the last Non-Importation Agreement, is
recent in our memories ; and though the manufactories
which have since been established will supply more than
sufficient for our own consumption, we apprehend it would
be imprudent thus rashly to part with what wu have in
store, especially as this sudden exportation has given just
grounds lor suspicion and alarm.

It is not within the limits of our appointment to provide
a^ain-t the evil tendency of this circumstance, by any regu-
lation ; but considering ourselves as fellow-citizens with you,
and deeply interested in every thing that respects the pub-
lick weal, and the support of the great cause in which our
all is at stake, we take the liberty of declaring our senti-
ments upon the occasion ; and recommend to you to avoid
drawing the people of this City into any difficulties or dis-
contents, by exporting or encouraging the monopoly of
such great quantities of Nails as may leave a provision for
our own consumption precarious, especially as it is not cer-
tain whether these Nails, so hastily bought up and exported,
are designed to be used, or to be stored.

Permit us also to submit to your consideration the pro-
priety o'f supplying the Troops at Boston with implements
of war, and articles essential to hostilities. We cannot
foibear observing, that the duty we owe to our interest and
reputation should lead us to withhold such supplies from
the Troops, at least till we have assurances that nothing
hostile is intended against us.

And debates arising on the propriety of publishing the
same as a Committee ; and the question being put thereon,
it was carried in the affirmative, in the manner following,
viz:

For the Question. Against the Question.

Mr. J. Jay, Mr. A. P. Lott, Mr. Duryee,

Mr F. Jay, Mr. Gilbert, Mr. Johnston,

Mr. Piatt, Mr. Ivers, Mr. Goforth,

Mr. J. Anthony, Mr. Lasher, Mr. Totten,

Mr. N. Roosevelt, Mr. McDougall, Mr. A. Walton,

Mr. Bisset, Mr. Fleming, Mr. CurteniuB,

Mr. Brasher, Mr. Lewis, Mr. Bicker.

Mr. I. Roosevelt, Mr. Janeway,

Mr. Sin iris, Mr. Sears.

The Chairman entered his dissent against the above act.
By order of the Committee :

Isaac Low, Chairman.

LETTER FROM J. BROWN TO THE COMMITTEE OF CORRES-
PONDENCE IN BOSTON.

Montreal, March 29, 1775.

Gentlemen: Immediately after the reception of your
letters and pamphlets, I went to Albany to find the state of
the Lakes, and established a correspondence with Dr.
Joseph Young. I found the Lakes impassable at that time.
About a fortnight after I set out fcr Canada, and arrived
at St. John's in fourteen days, having undergone almost
inconceivable hardships, the Lake Champlain being very
high, the small streams and rivers, and great part of the
Country for twenty miles each side the Lake, especially
towards Canada, under water. The Lake Champlain was
partly open and partly covered with dangerous ice, which
breaking loose for miles in length, our crafts drove us
against an island, and froze us in for two days, after which
we were glad to foot it on land.

1 delivered your letters to Messrs. Thomas Walker and
Blake, and was very kindly received by the Committee of
Correspondence at Montreal, from whom 1 received the
following state of affairs in the Province of Qucbeck.
Governour Carleton is no great politician, a man of sour,
morose temper, a strong friend to Administration and the
late Acts of the British Parliament which respect Ame-
rica, particularly the Quebeck Bill ; has restrained the
liberty of the Press, that nothing can be printed without
examination and license. Application has been made to
him for printing the Address from the Continental Con-
gress, and a refusal obtained. All the Troops in this
Province are ordered to hold themselves in readiness for
Boston, on the shortest notice. Four or five hundred snow-
shoes are prepared, for what use they know not. Mr.
Ilttllcer has wrote you about three weeks since, and has

been very explicit. He informs you that two regular Offi-
cers (Lieutenants) have gone off in disguise, supposed to
be gone to Boston, and to make what discovery they can
through the Country.

1 have the pleasure and satisfaction to inform you that,
through the industry and exertions of our friends in Cana-
da, our enemies are not at present able to raise ten men
for Administration. The weapons that have been used
by our friends to thwart the constant endeavours of the
friends of Government (so called) have been chiefly in
terrorem. The French people are (as a body) extremely
ignorant and bigoted, the Curates or Priests having
almost the entire government of their temporal as well
as spiritual affiirs. In La Prairie, a small village about
nine miles from Montreal, I gave my landlord a letter
of address, and there being four Cures in the village
praying over the dead body of an old Friar, the pamph-
let was soon handed them, who sent a messenger to pur-
chase several of them. 1 made them a present of each
of them one, and was desired to wait on them in the Nun-
nery with the holy sisters. They appeared to have no
disposition unfriendly toward the Colonies, but chose rather
to stand neuter.

Two men from the New-Hampshire Grants accompa-
nied me over the Lakes. The one was an old Indian
hunter, acquainted with the St. Francois Indians and their
language; the other was a captive many years among the
Caghnawaga Indians, which is the principal of all the
Canadian Six Nations and Western tribes of Indians, whom
1 sent to inquire and search out any intrigues carrying on
among them. These men have this minute returned, and
report that they were very kindly received by the Caghna-
waga Indians, with whom they tarried several days. The
Indians say they have been repeatedly applied to, and re-
quested to join with the King's Troops to fight Boston,
but have peremptorily refused, and still intend to refuse.
They are a very simple, politick people, and say that if
they are obliged, for their own safety, to take up arms on
either side, that they shall take part on the side of their
brethren, the English in New-England ; all the chiefs of
the Caghnawaga tribe being of English extraction, capti-
vated in their infancy. They have wrote a friendly letter
to Colonel Israel Putnam, of Pomfret, in Connecticut, in
consequence of a letter which Colonel Putnam sent them,
in which letter they give their brother Putnam assurance
of their peaceable disposition. Several French gentlemen
of Montreal have paid the Governour a visit, and offered
him their services, as Officers, to raise a Canadian Army,
and join the King's Troops. The Governour told them
he could get Officers in plenty, but the difficulty consisted
in raising Soldiers.

There is no prospect of Canada sending Delegates to
the Continental Congress. The difficulty consists in this :
should the English join in the Non-Importation Agree-
ment, the French would immediately monopolize the In-
dian trade. The French in Canada are a set of people
who know no other way of procuring wealth and honour
but by becoming Court sycophants; and as the introduc-
tion of the French laws will make room for the French
gentry, they are very thick about the Governour. You
may depend that, should any movement be made among
the French to join against the Colonies, your friends here
will give the shortest notice possible, and the Indians, on
their part, have engaged to do the same ; so that you
have no occasion to expect to be surprised without notice,
should the worst event take place.

I have established a channel of correspondence through
the New-Hampshire Grants, which may be depended on.
Mr. Walker's letter comes by the hand of Mr. Jejiers,
once of Boston, now on his way thither, which, together
with this, is a full account of affairs here. I shall tarry
here some time, but shall not go to Quebeck, as there are
a number of their Committee here.

One thing I must mention, to be kept as a profound se-
cret. The Fort at rFicondcroga must be seized as soon as
possible, should hostilities be committed by the King's
Troops. The people on IScic-Hampshirc Grants have
engaged to do this business, and in my opinion they are
the most proper persons for this job. This will effectually
curb this Province, and all the Troops that may be sent
here.

215

CORRESPONDENCE, PROCEEDINGS, &c, MARCH, V,

246

As the messenger to carry this letter has been waiting
some time with impatience, I must conclude, by subscrib-
ing myself, gentlemen, your most obedient humble servant,

J. Brown.

To Mr. Samuel Adams,
Dr. J. Warren,

(Com'tce of Correspondence in Boston.

. 1 am this minute informed that Mr. Carhton has order-
ed that no Wheat go out of the River until further order;
the design is obvious.

LANCASTER COUNTY (PENNSYLVANIA) COMMITTEE.

At a Meeting of the Committee of Observation for Lan-
caster County, at Lancaster, on the 30th of March, 1775 :

The Committee took into consideration, amongst other
things, the conduct of George Ross, Esquire, one of the
Representatives of this County, in the late interesting de-
bate in the House of Assembly of this Province, respecting
an answer to his Honour the Governour's Message, re-
commending a separate Petition from the Assembly to His
Majesty for redress of grievances, and do unanimously ap-
prove of the active part taken by the said Mr. Ross in
opposition to the measures proposed, as the same would
tend to introduce a disunion amongst the different Colonies,
and defeat the salutary regulations of the Continental
Congress. And it being put to vote, it is

Resolved, nomine contradicente, That the thanks of this
Committee be rendered to Mr. Ross and the other worthy
Members of the honourable House, who have evinced their
steady attention and virtuous adherence to the true welfare
of their Country, by pursuing the only probable means of
redress ; in supporting and preserving entire the union of the
Colonies, so absolutely necessary for the common safety of
America. Eberhart Michael, Clerk pro tern.

New-York, March 30, 1775.

The chiefs of the Six Nations, who, during the course
of the winter, held several Congresses with Colonel Guy
Johnson, the Superintendent, are', we hear, at present with
him in consultation respecting the conduct of the several
tribes to the Southward, and the steps to be further taken
for preventing future quarrels in that quarter; to which end
it is said they propose to use every means in their power
for collecting their scattered people from amongst the
several Nations, and fixing them in a place where they
will be more immediately under the direction of their proper
confederacy. And we are likewise informed that Colonel
Johnson, who was greatly indisposed through cold he caught
attending on one of the conferences, is now much better.

TO THE INHABITANTS OF THE MASSACHUSETTS-BAY.
NO. VII.

Boston, March 30, 1775.
My Friends and Countrymen :

Without any introduction, preface, or apology, I shall
reassume the paper which was the subject of our examina-
tion in my last, beginning where we then ended. This last
column of our writer is curious enough. I can hardly
determine whether profound silence, smiling neglect, or a
serious refutation would be its best answer.

When lie tells us, with the air of an argument, "if alle-
giance be due to the person of the King, (he might have
added, or to the British Crown,) he then appears in a new
capacity, as King of America, or rather, in several new
capacities, as King of Massachusetts, of Rhode-Island, of
Connecticut, &lc, &ic" He might have still added, and
if these Colonies are three thousand miles from the King's
palace, from Kew, or his place of residence, wherever it be,
lie must govern them by Deputies or Viceroys. And what
does all this amount to? Where is the difficulty ? What
is his inference ? Is it to the point ?

Rut if our connection with Great Britain, by the Par-
liament, be dissolved, the Colonies will have none among
themselves, their having one and the same person for their
Sovereign being no union at all ; as he must govern each
State by it own Parliament, which would pursue its own
particular interest, notwithstanding any possible efforts of
the King for the general good. Admitting all this, and as
much more of the kind as our wanderer pleases, to be
true, it is no evidence of our connection with the Parent

State. They may be good reasons why we should, by
some means or other, especially at the present day, con-
solidate into a closer union among the Colonies, that a com-
mon interest might govern the whole. We might therefore
pass it by as nothing to the purpose. But let us attend a
moment to the state of facts. The only way to govern States,
and direct their movements, is by the edict of a Monarch,
or the laws of a Legislative Assembly. Such is the Con-
stitution of Government in most of the British Colonies,
that no law can be passed but by the consent of the King's
representative, who, as he is appointed by His Majesty,
and holds his office during his pleasure, observes such a
line of conduct as is pointed out by his Royal master, or
the mandate of his Minister. In all the Colonies, unless
Connecticut is an exception, their laws are sent home and
laid before His Majesty for his approbation, who has it in
his power, within a limited time, entirely to disannul them.
Considering this, and that the appointment of all execu-
tive officers is either mediately or immediately in the
Crown, excepting in one or two of the Colonies ; it is
scarcely supposable that any one could pursue its own
interest to the detriment of another ; or that a course of
conduct could be adopted inconsistent with the best wel-
fare of the Parent State, so long as the powers of the
-Crown, and the checks of prerogatives are directed by
constitutional motives.

The next argument of our substantial reasoner is, I
believe, entirely new, and would have been so a thousand
years hence, had not he, in the labours of invention,
stumbled upon it ; it is all his own ; no one will envy
hiin the honour of this mighty discovery : " If the King of
Great Britain has really these new capacities, they ought
to be added to his titles ; and another difficulty will arise —
the prerogatives of these new Crowns have never been
defined or limited. Is the monarchical part of the several
Provincial Constitutions to be nearer, or more remote
from absolute monarchy, in an inverted ratio to each one's
approaching to or receding from a Republick ?" The Royal
title is, King of Great Britain, France, and Ireland,
Defender of the Faith, &,c." Where, then, will this titular
argument carry us? What mighty revolutions, junctions,
and disjunctions will it accomplish ? If it proves any thing
in the* application of its inventor, it proves that all the
Kings of England, from Henry the Sixth to the reigning
Prince, were Kings of France. That Ireland and Great
Britain are distinct States, in a different sense from what
the Colonies are; and that Henry the Eighth and King
George the Third (God bless him) were both Defenders
of the Faith, though the one a Papist, and the other a
Protestant. The prerogatives of the Crown are defined
and limited with convenient certainty by our several Char-
ters, the ends of Government being confined within the
circle of doing good. Prerogatives are not, nor ever will
be defined with mathematical nicety, " or inverted ratios ;"
humanity itself forbids it. The dividing line between day
and night, light and darkness, has never been drawn, nor
can it be. You may therefore as well argue from the
want of such a line, the non-existence of light and dark-
ness, as from indefinite prerogatives, the coalition of States.

But, says our pleasant amuser, if we are not subject to
the supreme authority of the Mother Country, " where
shall we find the British Constitution, that, we all agree,
we are entitled to ? We shall seek for it in vain in our
Provincial Assemblies. Charter Governments have no
more power than what is expressly granted by their several
Charters. The first Charter granted to this Province did
not empower the Assembly to tax the people at all. Our
Council Boards are destitute of the authority of the House
of Lords, and its members of the splendid appendages of
peerage. Thus the supposition of our being independent
States, or exempt from the authority of Parliament, destroys
the very idea of our having a British Constitution." And
further, " the argument drawn from the first principle of our
being entitled to English liberties, destroys the principle
itself; it deprives us of the Bill of Rights, and all the
benefits resulting from the Revolution, of " English Laws
and the British Constitution.-' Our patriots, says he.
have been so intent upon building up American rights,
that they have overlooked the rights of Great Britain nod
our own interest, and instead of proving that we are entitled
to the same privileges that a subject in Great Britain

247

CORRESPONDENCE, PROCEEDINGS, he, MARCH, 1775.

218

enjoys, they have been arguing away our most essential
rights. Upon reading this paragraph I could not but won-
der who it was " that suffered his pen to run so freely."
Can it be an honest native of this Province, with such a
stand in the community as to be able to see distinctly all
its political manoeuvres ?

If our position he true, which I think we have abundantly
confirmed, that previous to the Colonies receiving their
several Charters they were in a natural state compared
with Great Britain ; it undeniably follows, that they pos-
sess every power or right that is not expressly given into
the hands of the King by those Charters, they being the
original source of power, it passing from them to the King,
and vice versa.

Our first Charter enabled this Colony expressly " from
time to time to make, ordain, and establish all manner of
wholesome and reasonable orders, laws, statutes, ordi-
nances, directions, and instructions necessary for the well
ordering and governing the same." This most certainly
included in it the right of making laws for taxation, as
well as those for any other purpose.

In order to determine whether the argument drawn from
the principle of our being entitled to English liberties,
destroys itself, deprives us of the Bill of Rights, and all
the benefits resulting from the Revolution, the English
laws, and the British Constitution, it may be necessary to
call to mind their chief excellencies, and their essential
and principal characteristicks.

The freedom of the English Constitution, says the great
Montesquieu, which has directly for its end political liberty,
consists in a certain distribution of the legislative, execu-
tive, and judiciary powers of the State, or the fundamental
laws. The freedom of the subject consists in his stand-
ing in such a relation to this Constitution, and the laws
originating from it, as to be secure in his person and pro-
perty. In general, then, for the Americans to have British
Constitutions they must have free ones : and they must
stand in the same relation to them, as to their valuable and
essential purposes, that the Britons form with theirs.

The King, who is the third branch in the Legislative
Assembly, and the first magistrate in the Kingdom, is
dependant on the people for his supplies. The Royal
authority is a kind of invisible entity, a spring that ought
to move easily, without noise and attrition, giving motion
to the political machine, and having the publick good for
its standing regulator. It can do no wrong. And if it
should happen to get impaired, or deviate from foreign
attractions, the effectual and constitutional remedy is tight
purse-strings. To have then a British Constitution, is to
have the third branch of our Legislative Assembly, and
first officer in the Province, dependant on the people for
his salary. The officers of the Crown in England must
see to the legality of their conduct ; if they violate the
laws, even by Royal direction, they cannot take shelter
behind the Throne, or plead in justification an illegal com-
mand. A Provincial Governour ought then to make the
law of the land, and the fundamental principles of society,
the rule of conduct, and not the mandate from a Minister
of Slate. The House of Lords have a negative voice on
all Acts of the Commons ; so have our Council Board on all
Bills of our Representatives. In fact they have, in substance,
constitutionally, all the authority of the House of Peers.

A British Constitution knows of no laws binding upon
its subjects but what were made, or consented to by them-
selves, or their substitutes, and what the legislators them-
selves are subject to, in common with every individual in
the community : this is a grand security, a constitutional
bulwark of liberty. " Liberty of man, in society, (says
the immortal Locke,) is to be under no other legislative
power but that established by consent in the common-
wealth ; nor under the dominion of any will, or restraint of
any law, but what this legislative shall enact according to
the trust reposed in it." " Freedom of men in Govern-
ment, (says the same author,) is to have a standing rule to
live by, common to all and every one in that society, and
made by the legislative power erected in it ; and not to be
subject to the arbitrary will of another. This fieedom
Irom absolute arbitrary power is so necessary to, and closely
joined with a man's preservation, that he cannot part with
it but by what forfeits his preservation and life together."

Indulge me in adding a few more lines, from this con-

summate reasoner ; lines which ought to be wrote in letters
of gold, and sunk to the centre of every man's heart.
" The supreme power cannot take from any man part of
his property without his own consent ; for the preservation
of property being the end of Government, and that for
which men enter into society, it necessarily supposes and
requires that the people should have property, without
which they must be supposed to lose that by entering into
society, which was the end for which they entered into it:
too gross an absurdity for any man to own. Men therefore
in society, having property, they must have such a right to
the goods which by the laws of the community are theirs,
that no body hath a right to take their substance, or any
part of it from them without their consent. Without this
they have no property at all ; for I have no property in that
which another can by right take from me when he pleases,
against my consent. Hence it is a mistake to think that
supreme or legislative power of a community can do what
it will, or dispose of the estates of the subject arbitrarily, or
take any part of them at pleasure. For Government is
constituted with this condition, and for this end, that men
might have and secure their properties."

A British Constitution, then, which Massachusettensis
says is agreed on all hands we are entitled to, knows of
no authority to make laws for more than three millions of
subjects, but such as is erected among themselves, in
which they are represented, to which the law makers
themselves are subjected, and which is consistent with the
enjoyment of private property. Compare, on the one
hand, the assumed principles of Parliament and ministerial
measures, with the above criterions, and on the other the
natural and constitutional authority of our Assemblies, and
draw your conclusions.

The fundamental laws of England, which are laws of
mercy, and the precepts of reason, of improved artificial
reason, are severally declarations of the rights of English-
men. They are emanations from the Constitution, are
blended with it, are a part of it. They principally and
with vigilant jealousy regard and secure life, liberty, and
property. Next to a man's life, (if not before it,) the
nearest and dearest enjoyment is freedom ; a deprivation
of this being a sort of civil death, or living misery. An-
glian jura in omni casu libertati dant favorem. Magna
Charta, or the great Charter of the liberties of the King-
dom, which was made in the ninth year of Henry the
Third, was declaratory of the fundamental laws and ancient
liberties of the subject. By the twenty-ninth chapter of
this revered piece of antiquity, no man can be taken, or im-
prisoned, dispossessed of his freehold, of his lands, of his
liberties, (not even by Parliament,) but by the verdict of
his equals, or by the law of the land,* or condemned with-
out lawful trial by a jury. A Statute of the 25 Edw. I.
was a confirmation of this great Charter, by the sixth
chapter of which no aid or tax can be taken on any occa-
sion whatever, but by the common consent of the Realm,
and for the common benefit thereof. By another founda-
tion-statute in the 34 Edw. I. no tallage or aid can be
taken or levied, but by grant and common consent of Par-
liament ; tallage, according to Lord Coke, being a general
word including all taxes, subsidies, &c, whatever; and
Parliament, meaning an assembly, composed of the Rep-
resentatives of the people. Within this Act are all new
offices erected with new fees, or old offices with additional
fees; for this is a tax upon the subject. By the famous
Habeas Corpus Act, which is founded in common right, and
on common law, which is the birth-right of every English-
man, no person can be sent prisoner out of England or
Wales into Scotland, Ireland, Jersey, Guernsey, or to any
other place beyond seas. The Bill of Rights, which passed
the British Parliament upon the accession of William the
Third to the throne, after reciting the declaration of the
Lords and Commons, and the endeavours of James the
Second to subvert and extirpate the Protestant religion, and
the laws and liberties of the Kingdom, declares, among a
number of other articles for vindicating and asserting the
ancient rights and liberties of the people :

"4thly: That levying money without consent and grant
of Parliament is illegal.

* How much property is taken from the subject and riven to Ihe
Crown by the operation of the unparalleled Port Bill, and that without
any trial, pretensions of forfeiture, law, or justice.

249

CORRESPONDENCE, PROCEEDINGS, fee, MARCH, 1775.

250

" othly : Thai it is the right of the subject to petition the
King.

" 6thly : That the raising or keeping a Standing Army
within the Kingdom in time of peace, unless it be with
consent of Parliament, is against law.

" 7thly : That the subjects which are Protestants, may
have arms for their defence, suitable to their conditions,
and as allowed by law.

"13th: That for the redress of all grievances, and for
the amending, strengthening, and preserving the laws, Par-
liament ought to be held frequently."

These articles, with others, are declared, claimed, and
asserted to be the true, ancient, and indubitable rights and
liberties of the people of the Kingdom ; and so ought to
be esteemed, adjudged, allowed, and taken. Accordingly
it was enacted by the King, Lords, and Commons, that
this Bill should stand, remain, and be the law of the Realm
forever. None of those Acts gave any new rights to the
subject ; they are only declarative of what were their un-
resigncd, inherent, ancient rights as Englishmen, as Britons.
If, then, we are entitled to British liberties, we are enti-
tled to all those rights, privileges, and securities which we
have been surveying. These are the essential qualities,
the first principles, and capital characteristicks of the Bri-
tish Government, the props and checks which have ena-
bled it to stand so many ages the rude shocks of foreign
invasions, dotnestick feuds, civil commotions, and of time
itself; and would secure it from falling, but with the pillars
of nature, were it not for the sappings of bribery and cor-
ruption at its roots, and the gnawings of ambition and
avarice on its branches.

Therefore to enjoy the benefits resulting from the Revo-
lution, the Bill of Rights, the English Laws, and the Bri-
tish Constitution, we can be taxed by no Assembly but our
Provincial ones, in which we are represented : cannot be
sent home for trial, according to a late law ; can be dis-
possessed of our property only by the judgment of our
Peers ; can have Soldiers quartered upon us only by the
consent of our General Courts, &,c, &ic, &c. This is the
essence of the British Constitution. The appellations,
Kings, Peers of the Realm, Knights of the Shire, Sic, as
well as Governours, Counsellors, and Representatives,
are but secondary qualities, or mere formalities. The same
Constitution in substance may appear under a thousand
different forms, and the same valuable purposes be an-
swered by them all. It is for the above substantial rights
that our patriots (whom America we trust will hail, as
Rome did Cicero, the fathers and saviours of their country)
have been arguing. It is in defence of these social bless-
ings that they have sacrificed their ease, their health, and
their wealth, and now stand, when the bolts are just ready
to burst upon our heads.

We are next told : " If there be any grievance, it does
not consist , in-- being subject to the authority of Parlia-
ment, but in our not having an actual representation in
it ; and this is withheld by the first principles of Govern-
ment, and the immutable laws of nature." That is, to
speak plain English, if one community is oppressed by
another, the grievance does not consist in the oppressive
act, but in the want of a right to act in the manner which
is oppressive ; and if this right is withheld by the im-
mutable laws of nature, or by God himself, who is the
Author of immutabilities in nature, these laws must be
trampled upon and faulted, and the immaculate oppressor
go free. Thus you see that grievances must be imputed
to the God of Nature, and the rectitude of Heaven ques-
tioned, rather than the propriety and equity of ministerial
measures disputed. The truth is, the grievance consists in
being subject to the authority of a Parliament in which we
are not and cannot be represented.

We are next presented with a passage from Govemour
Hutchinson's letters, which were sent to solicit the ven-
geance of a Kingdom upon this unhappy Colony, and to
drag down the resentments of an incensed Court upon in-
dividuals. I shall not at present dispute upon the merits
or demerits of the characters and measures which were the
subject matter of these letters. " There must be an
abridgment of what is called English liberties," is the fa-
mous sentence which we are told has rung through the
Continent. We have already seen what Loclce, Montes-
quieu, Magna Charta, tmcorrupttd Parliaments, the fun-

damental lairs, the Bill of Rights, the English Constitu-
tion, the Britons and the Americans call English liberties.
These, these are the liberties that must be abridged. I
have no fondness for aspersions and calumnies of any kind.
This gentleman possesses, and has exercised, undoubtedly,
in various departments, some amiable private virtues and
useful accomplishments. But such have been his noto-
rious principles and exertions in many instances of pub-
lick conduct, that it must give pain to a good mind to be
acquainted with his political character. I forbear; for I
would not bring a railing accusation against the Devil him-
self, were I, like Michael, brought to contend with him.

After saying it is for the interest of the Colonists to
continue part of the British Empire, and their duty to re-
main subject to the authority of Parliament, both of which
are favourite objects of their wishes, upon the good old
plan, which the experience of a century has proved to be
mutually beneficial ; our declaimer, in the full career of
rhetorical flourish, suffers, I believe, the real principles of
his practice to escape him, perhaps unguardedly, which
gives a key to his refined system of politicks: "After
many more centuries," says he, " have rolled away, long
after they who are now building upon the stage of life
shall have been received to the bosom of mother earth,
the Colonies may have the balance of wealth, numbers,
and power in their favour, and some future George may
cross the Atlantick and rule Great Britain by an Ameri-
can Parliament." A most sublime scheme of Parliament !
Unexceptionable principles of policy ! The wealthy are to
oppress and grind the faces of the comparatively indigent ;
the many to enslave the few ; the powerful to tyrannize
over the impotent ; the great to devour the small ; the
strong the weak ; and Great Britain, in her turn, to become
the slaves of America, the longest sword being the great
charter of liberties, and the invaluable standard of right
and wrong. Is justice, is equity, are the rights of man-
kind such transportable wares, such floating machines ?
Are there no fixed, eternal, and immutable principles of
political truth and social justice, notwithstanding the acute
efforts of some moderns to explain them away, which can-
not be violated, but by the imputation of guilt? guilt of
the blackest dye, which will sooner or later fall with crush-
ing weight on the culprit's head. Can the splendour of
wealth always dazzle the eye of reason, or the intoxicating
fumes of undelegated power steel the heart against the
stings and lashes of natural conscience? Can superiority
of numbers alter the laws of nature, and annihilate the
never-failing principles of strict justice ? Can the longest
sword sooth the clamours and twingings of a wounded
spirit, or be plead in justification at the bar of an offended
Godl We are told by the poets, that the guilty are driven
about and haunted by the burning torches of the furies.
Presumptuous guilt is the fury, says Cicero, that torments;
an evil conscience the phrensy that rages ; and stinging re-
flection the terrour that distracts. These, these are the
incessant bosom fiends that haunt the guilty, that harrow
up their souls, and will day and night avenge the injuries
and oppressions of innocent sufferers.

Let me ask our courtly-tongue pad if he really thinks
Great Britain, for centuries yet to come, will be such pro-
ficients in his sublime philosophy as to set supinely at ease
and see herself stripped of her most valuable rights ; rights,
in defence of which she has been often arrayed in armour
and in blood. Would she petition an American Parliament
for redress of grievances ? Would she acknowledge the
right of deprivation so long as there was one man existing
on the Island? Would not every drop of English blood
boil into a fury ? Would not every spark of British spirit
kindle into a flame? Would it not burst forth like a con-
flagration, and sweep with the besom of destruction the
laws enacted in an American Parliament, and their execu-
tors, off the stage of entities?

My abused, wretchedly abused countrymen, whilst we
are complaining of injuries and oppressions from others, let
us see to it that we keep good consciences void of offence
ourselves. Let us injure no man's person or property ;
cautiously guard against all outrages, riots, mobs, or irregular
and unnecessary risings, which the adversaries to the com-
mon cause may artfully attempt to lead or provoke us into.
The cause we are engaged in is of too much dignity to be
sullied by rashness, too important, too seriously important,

251

CORRESPONDENCE, PROCEEDINGS, &ic, APRIL, 1775.

252

to be weakened by tumult and partial strife. Liberty re-
ceives strength and vigour from prudence and consideration.
Justice, equity^ and regularity, are lier closest friends: sbe
courts virtue as her bosom companion, and shuns vice as
her dangerous enemy. Let us equally avoid the feverish
fits of political heat and cold. Banish from our breasts all
personal prejudices, private piques, narrow opinions, illiberal
distinctions, and little unbecoming jealousies. Let us dis-
play a magnanimity proportionate to the importance and
dangers of the struggle, cultivating harmony of sentiments
and unanimity of counsels. Act discreetly, firmly, and
unitedly. So long as men have hearts to feel, and blood
and spirits to act, some irregularities and indiscretions will
unavoidably take place under galling oppressions. These
must be expected until vice is deep trodden to its centre,
and frailties and human imperfections banished from the
earth. 1 trust those among us will be few and exceeding
small, such as, being viewed by an eye of candour, may be
easily covered with the mantle of charity.

All America has recognised our cause, has become
surety for our safety, and pointed out the process for re-
dress. All the Colonies unitedly oppose. Opposition so
respectable, so ample, never was known. Their unanimity
and firmness was never exceeded. Let us then adopt, and
religiously observe the recommendations of the grand Ame-
rican Congress, as the best rules of political conduct; hold
their Association sacred ; treat the enemies of our Country
in the manner they prescribe ; avoid, studiously avoid,
every thing that may occasion a rupture and hasten on the
last appeal ; being completely equipped, and thoroughly pre-
pared for every event, let us conduct peaceably and inoffen-
sively. If we are attacked, and hostilities commenced
against us, self-preservation, the first law of nature, must
and ought to assume the reins, take the command, direct
our conduct and govern the man. It does not oblige us to
stand still until we are hewn dead at our enemies' feet.
Fkom the County of Hampshike.

New-York, Friday, March 31, 1775.

This being the day appointed for taking the sense of the
freeholders of the Town of Jamaica, on Long-Island,
whether they would nominate a Deputy to meet Deputies
from the other Counties, in the City of Neiv-York, the
20th of April, for the purpose of electing Delegates to
attend the Continental Congress at Philadelphia, the 10th
of May next; a poll was opened, when the votes taken
stood as follows :

Against a Deputy 94

For a Deputy - - - - 82

made any distinction between the Province Law and the
late unconstitutional Acts, established by the King and
Parliament, we must suppose you mean to support and
maintain both. Permit me, gentlemen, to tell you, that
your zeal overbalances your knowledge. Pray examine
the Province law throughout, and all other law authorities
that ever were held in repute by the English Nation, and
you will not find one instance wherein they justify a num-
ber of men in combining together in any league whatsoever
to support the law, but quite the reverse; for the law is
supported in another manner; it is maintained by Magis-
trates and Officers, that are legally appointed as the laws
direct, and not by a number of men combining together.
You say you " will also defend and protect each other from
mobs, riots, or any unlawful attack whatsoever ; and that on
the first notice of any attempt upon either of the subscri-
bers, each and every one of you will immediately repair to
the person attacked, and him defend to the last extremity."

Is this law, gentlemen ? In what book and page will
you find it ? or what legislative body ever established such
measures to support laws ? Was it ever known in the
King's Dominions for a number of men to assemble to-
gether in order to suppress any mob without authority ; for
so doing they are themselves a mob in the eyes of the law,
to all intents and purposes; though 1 am convinced, if you
had been prudent enough to have examined into the law
of the Province, by which our lives and properties are pro-
tected, before you undertook to support it by mobs, as you
have solemnly agreed to do, you would have been ashamed
ever to have subscribed your names to such an unlawful
combination.

Gentlemen, I beg leave to ask you what it is you are
afraid of? Is it because you have honest hearts and act
upon well-grounded principles? Is it because you stand
strong for the Colonies and her liberties ? Or is it because
you strike against American freedom, and because you are
trying to enforce the late unconstitutional Acts, and to
plunge America into a state of slavery ? Surely it must
be guilt and remorse of conscience, and from thence springs
fear; ah ! fear, indeed, and reason enough for fear, for any
person to sell his Country and the liberties thereof, for the
sake of false honour and the poor pittance of sordid gain ;
he will live in fear and die in fear, and will run the greatest
risk of being tormented hereafter. Spectator.

PORTSMOUTH (NEW-HAMPSHIRE) ASSOCIATION.

We, the subscribers, considering the disorderly state of
the times, and being deeply impressed with a sense of the
inestimable value of constitutional liberty, think ourselves
under an absolute necessity of associating together for the
support of the wholesome laws of the land, and also for
the preservation and protection of our persons and proper-
ties, which we find, at least as to many, have been threat-
ened of late, and we do therefore solemnly engage to and
with each other : —

1st. That we will maintain the laws of the land to the
utmost of our power.

2d. That we will also defend and protect each other
from mobs, riots, or any other unlawful attack whatsoever,
and upon the first notice of any attempt upon either of the
subscribers, each and every one of us will immediately re-
pair to the person attacked, and him defend to the last ex-
tremity.

J muaiy 17, 1775.

TO THE SUBSCRIBERS OF THE ABOVE ASSOCIATION.

Portsmouth, March 31, 1775.

Gentlemen : Take this Association under your mature
consideration, as 1 hope some of you to be gentlemen of
penetration and knowledge ; and after a serious examination
of the above Association, you will find, instead of support-
ing and maintaining the laws of the land, you are acting
in direct violation thereof. As you say you will support
and maintain the laws of the land, and as you have not

EXTRACT OF A LETTER FROM LONDON TO A GENTLLMAN
IN PHILADELPHIA, DATED APRIL 1, 1775.

The behaviour of the New- Yorkers has raised the drooping
spirits of the Ministry, and has been the cause of their pursu-
ing their tyrannous measures towards America with tenfold
vigour. A Bill is brought into the House by Lord friorlh, to
stop the trade of New- Jersey , Pennsylvania , Maryland ', Vir-
ginia, and South- Carolina ; it is determined, if you will not
trade with Great Britain, that you shall not trade any
where else. The friends of the Ministry declare publickly,
every where, their intention of starving the four ]Sew-Eng-
land Colonies. Ought not the Merchants of Pennsylvania,
&tc, &ic, as they have but little time before the Act takes
place that will prevent their sending them any provisions,
to fill their Towns with bread, flour, and every thing else
they may stand in need of? If it is true what the Minis-
try give out, that they have divided you, I yet hope, when
America conies to see the insidious part Administration
is taking to subdue her, that you will all unite as one man,
and sutler every hardship rather than become the dupes of
the present set of men who govern this Country. If you
persevere in your Non-Importation and Non-Exportation
Agreement, in less than twelve months you will become
complete conquerors; if you break, then you become slaves,
not to one tyrant, but to five hundred.

EXTRACT OF A LETTER FROM NEW-HAVEN, TO MR. RIV'INC-
TON, NKW-VORK, DATED APRIL 1, 177.3.

Our Committee of Inspection have proceeded to very
unwarrantable lengths; they ordered summonses to be ser-
ved on several persons who had not been altogether com-
plaisant enough to the mandates of the Congress. One of
the Committee-men demanded of a loyal Constitutionalist :
'• What, do you drink Tea ? Take care what you do, Mr.

253

CORRESPONDENCE, PROCEEDINGS, &c, APRIL, 1775.

254

C, for you are to know the Committee command the mob,
and can in an instant let them loose upon any man who
opposes their decrees, and complete his destruction." But
upon his damning the King, the spirit of the gallant Roy-
alist grew impatient, and he opened a battery of execra-
tions upon Committees and Congresses of all denominations.
This, of course, occasioned his being ordered before the
whole Sanhedrim, where he is to be interrogated after the
manner of the Spanish and Portugal inquisitions. To this
complexion is American liberty, through the influence of the
King-killing Republicans, already arrived. But the culprit
is true game, and will prove as tough a sapling as ever these
biff wi^s have tried their strength upon, if these choose
to carry matters to extremity, now is the time to repel force
by force, in defence of the constitutional liberty of the
Colony ; and be the strength of the disaffected what it may,
the lives and fortunes of many in this Country will be
freely hazarded in defence of King George the Third, and
the laws of his Realm.

EXTRACT OF A LETTER FROM BOSTON, TO A GENTLEMAN IN
PHILADELPHIA, DATED SATURDAY, APRIL 1, 1775.

On Thursday last at daylight, the Troops beat to arms ;
five Regiments marched out with Earl Percy at their head ;
it was supposed they were going to Concord, where our
Provincial Congress is now sitting. A quantity of provi-
sions and warlike stores, I understand, is lodged there.
Several expresses were immediately sent away to give no-
tice of their marching. Important consequences were
apprehended ; but happily they only went a few miles out
of Boston and returned again. The Town and Country
were alarmed ; many of the neighbouring country Towns
immediately mustered, and got equipped for a march. It
has given such uneasiness, that Committees from twelve of
the near Towns have met upon it, and intend sending
a Petition to the Provincial Congress representing this af-
fair to them, desiring they would take up the matter, and
remonstrate to the General upon it. The Troops went out
of the common road ; marched over the people's land — some
where their grain was sown — and gardens; broke down their
fences, walls, &,c, and doing other injuries. It is thought
such proceedings will bring on bad consequences, unless
prevented. The late conduct of the Regulars, in tarring
and feathering a countryman, headed by one of their Co-
lonels and other Officers, and the spirited remonstrance it
occasioned from the Selectmen of the Town of Billerica
to General Gage, has made much talk.

The military spirit and resolution prevailing in this Prov-
ince, in support of their liberties and Constitution, is aston-
ishing. I hope we shall soon have some good news from
home, to prevent any breaking out, which I begin to fear,
especially if the troops continue their marchings out. I
have heard that forty or fifty of the troops were so fatigued
by their march on Thursday, that they could not keep up
with their fellow soldiers on their return. It is said they
are intending to go out again soon. The Provincial grand
magazine of provisions and warlike stores is kept at Wor-
cester, about forty-four miles from Boston.

fensive to His Majesty; upon which His Excellency issued
the following

Proclamation.

Whereas, I have received information that, in conse-
quence of an advertisement signed John llarvcy, Modera-
tor, some time since published and dispersed through this
Province, sundry persons have been elected by a small
number of Freeholders in the several Counties, to meet in
Convention in the Town of Newbern, on this day for the
choice of Deputies to represent this Colony in a Congress
intended to be held at the City of Philadelphia, in the
month of May next: And whereas, the meeting of such
Convention, and the declared purpose thereof will be high-
ly offensive to the King, and dishonourable to the General
Assembly of this Province, which is appointed to sit at this
time for the despatch of publick business : I have, there-
fore, thought fit, with the advice of His Majesty's Council,
to issue this Proclamation, hereby in the King's name to
forbid the holding of the said Convention. And I do ex-
hort all His Majesty's subjects, on their allegiance and on
pain of incurring His Majesty's high displeasure, to with-
draw themselves from the same, and to desist from all such
illegal, unwarrantable, and dangerous proceedings.

Given, &c, the 3d of April, 1775. Jo. Martin.

God save the King.

COUNCIL OF NORTH-CAROLINA.

At a Council held at Newbern, the 2d of April, 1775,
Present : His Excellency the Governour, the Hon. Jus.
llasell, Hon. John Rutherford, Hon. Lewis H. De Ros-
sett, Hon. Alexander McCulloh, Samuel Strudwicke,
Martin Howard, and Samuel Cornell, Esquires.

His Excellency acquainted the Board that he had receiv-
ed His Majesty's commands to use his utmost endeavours
to prevent the appointment of Deputies from this Colony,
to attend another Congress intended to be held at Phila-
delphia, in the month of May next. And as a Convention
is appointed by advertisement to meet to-morrow in New-
bern, for the choice of such Delegates, His Excellency
desired the advise of the Council what measures were pro-
per to be taken to prevent the meeting of such unlawful
assembly. The Board were unanimously of opinion that
His Excellency had no other means than to issue a Procla-
mation to forbid the holding of the proposed Convention,
and to declare that such proceedings would be highly of-

GLOUCESTER COUNTY (VIRGINIA) COMMITTEE.

At a Meeting of the Committee of Gloucester County,
at the Court-House of the said County, on Monday, the
3d of April, 1775,

Warner Lewis, Esq., Chairman.

The Resolves of the Convention held at the Town of
Richmond the 20th of March, 1775, were read and unani-
mously approved of.

Resolved, That the thanks of this Committee be pre-
sented to Thomas Whiting and Lewis Burwell, Esquires,
our worthy Delegates, for their faithful discharge of the
important trust reposed in them.

It being late before a sufficient number of members as-
sembled to proceed upon business, the Committee adjourn-
ed to Tuesday, the 25th instant.

Committee Chamber, Philadelphia, April 3, 1775.

Whereas there is the greatest reason to believe that quan-
tities of East India Goods have been purchased in England
by Holland merchants and others, with a view to transport
them to the Dutch Islands in the West-Indies, and from
thence introduce them into the Ports of North America ;
and as such a traffick would not only be injurious to the
trade and interest of this Country, but effectually counter-
act the Non-Importation Agreement which has been adopt-
ed, among other measures, for the common safety, this
Committee therefore think it expedient thus pubiickly to
caution their fellow-citizens against engaging in so perni-
cious a trade, and to declare that the utmost vigilance will
be used to detect any persons who shall endeavour to im-
port such India Goods from the Dutch Islands or elsewhere,
and when detected their names will be published to the
world, as delinquents and enemies to the liberties of Ame-
rica. By order of the Committee:

John Benezet, Assistant Secretary.

freehold (monmouth county, n. j.) committee.

April 3, 1775.

Thomas Leonard, Esquire, having been duly notified to
appear this day before the Committee of Inspection for the
Township of Freehold, in the County of Monmouth, V, „-
Jersey, and answer to a number of complaints made against
him, did not think proper to attend.

The Committee therefore proceeded, with care and im-
partiality, to consider the evidence laid before them, and
were unanimously of opinion, that the said Thomas Li<>-
nard, Esquire, has, in a number of instances, been guilty
of a breach of the Continental Association, and that, pur-
suant to the tenour of said Association, every friend to
true freedom ought immediately to break off all connexion
and dealings with him, the said Leonard, and treat him as
a foe to the rights of British America.

255

NORTH-CAROLINA ASSEMBLY, APRIL, 1775.

256

Ordered, That their Clerk transmit a copy of this judg-
ment to the Press. Signed accordingly by

Nath. Scudder, Clerk.

EXTRACT OK A LETTER FROM NEW-YORK TO A GENTLEMAN
IN BOSTON, DATED APRIL 3, 1775.

I am really under the greatest anxiety for the fate of
you and your distressed citizens, as such great Quantities of
military stores have been carried from hence to your Town,
as well as boards, hay, straw, bran, harness, &.c, &tc,
which, added to the three hundred horses that we are told
are sent for to Canada, portends the worst of designs. It
is suspected that the Troops really mean to take the field,
and attempt to open the Courts under the new regulation,
or make a forced march to Worcester. Others imagine
that they will march out five or ten miles at a time, in order
to compel you to commence hostilities first ; whilst some
think that nothing will be attempted till the Parliament
has decided on the grand controversy. However, I am
not clear but that orders to prosecute the Ministry's inten-
tions, till the Parliament decides otherwise, may have been
sent ; and should your noble spirits be subdued, there is no
doubt but the Parliament itself would justify such a con-
duct, though at the expense of much blood and treasure.
For Heaven's sake be watchful, as all, under God, depends
on your conduct at this time. A vessel with nails, boards,
&:c, for the Army, is ashore at Hell-Gate.

DR. JOSEPH WARREN TO ARTHUR LEE.

Boston, April 3, 1775.
Dear Sir: Your favour of the 21st of December came
opportunely to hand, as it enabled me to give the Provin-
cial Congress, now sitting at Concord, a just view of the
measures pursued by the tools of the Administration; and
effectually to guard them against that state of security into
which many have endeavoured to lull them. If we ever
obtain a redress of grievances from Great Britain, it must
be by the influence of those illustrious personages, whose
virtue now keeps them out of power. The King never

will bring them into power, until the ignorance and phren-
sy of the present Administration make the Throne on which
he sits shake under him. If America is an humble instru-
ment of the salvation of Britain, it will give us the sincer-
est joy ; but if Britain must lose her liberty, she must lose
it alone. America must and will be free. The contest
may be severe — the end will be glorious. We would not
boast, but we think, united and prepared as we are, we
have no reason to doubt of success, if we should be com-
pelled to the last appeal ; but we mean not to make that
appeal until we can be justified in doing it in the sight of
God and man. Happy shall we be if the Mother Country
will allow us the free enjoyment of our rights, and indulge
us in the pleasing employment of aggrandizing her.

The members for the Continental Congress are almost
all chosen by the several Colonies. Indeed, if any Colony
should neglect to choose members, it would be ruinous to
it ; as all intercourse would immediately cease between that
Colony and the whole Continent.

The First Brigade of the Army marched about four
miles out of Town three days ago, under the command of
a Brigadier General, (Earl Percy,) but as they marched
without baggage or artillery, they did not occasion so great
an alarm as they otherwise would. Nevertheless great
numbers, completely armed, collected in the neighbouring
Towns ; and it is the opinion of many, that had they march-
ed eight or ten miles, and attempted to destroy any maga-
zines, or abuse the people, not a man of them would have
returned to Boston. The Congress immediately took
proper measures for restraining any unnecessary effusion
of blood ; and also passed proper resolves respecting the
Army, if they should attempt to come out of the Town
with baggage and artillery.

I beg leave to recommend to your notice Mr. Dana,
the bearer hereof, (a gentleman of the law,) a man of sense
and probity, a true friend to his Country, of a respectable
family and fortune.

May Heaven bless you, and reward your labours with
success. I am, sir, with great respect, your most obedient
humble servant, Jos. Warren.

To Arthur Lee, Esq., London.

NORTH-CAROLINA ASSEMBLY.
North- Carolina, ss.

At an Assembly begun and held at Newbern the fourth
day of April, in the fifteenth year of the reign of our
Sovereign Lord George the Third, by the grace of God of
Great Britain, France, and Ireland, King, Defender of
the Faith, etc., and in the year of our Lord one thousand
seven hundred and seventy-five, being the first session of
this present Assembly :

The Clerk of the Crown having certified that the fol-
lowing persons were duly elected, and returned Represent-
atives for the respective Counties and Towns, viz :

Anson County. — (None.)

Beaufort. — Roger Ormond, Thomas Respess, Jun.

Bertie. — John Johnston, David Stanley.

Bladen. — William Salter. James White.

Brunswick. — Robert Howe, John Rowan.

Bute. — William Person, Green Hill.

Craven. — James Coor, Lemuel Hatch.

Carteret. — William Thompson, Solomon Shephard.

Chowan. — Samuel Johnston, Thomas Oldham, Thomas

Benbury, Thomas Jones, Thomas Hunter.
Currituck. — 'Thomas Mack-night, Francis Williamson,

Solomon Perkins, Samuel Jarvis, Nathan Poyner.
Cumberland. — Farquard Campbell, Thomas Rutherford.
Chatham. — (None.)

Dobbs. — Richard Caswell, William McKijinic.
Duplin. — Thomas Gray, Thomas Hicks.
Edgecombe. — (None.)

Granville. — Thomas Person, Memucan Hunt.
Guilford. — (None.) ;

Halifax. — Nicholas Long, Benjamin McCulloch.
Hertford. — William Murfrte, George Wynns.
Johnston. — Needham Bryan, Benjamin Williams.
Martin. — (None.)
Mf.cklenburgh. — (None.)

New-Hanover. — John Ashe, William Hooper.
Northampton. — Allen Jones, Jeptha Atherton.
Orange. — Ralph McNair, Thomas Hart.
Onslow. — William Cray, Henry Rhodes.
Pasquotank. — Jonathan Hearring, Isaac Gregory, Ed-
ward Everigin, Joseph Reding, Joseph Jones.
Perquimans. — John Harvey, Benjamin Harvey, Andrew

Knox, Thomas Harvey, John Whedbee.
Pitt. — John Simpson, Edward Salter.
Rowan. — Griffith Rutherford, Matthew Lock.
Surry. — (None.)

Tryon. — William Moore, William Alston.
Tyrrell. — Benj. Spruill, Jos. Spruill, Jeremiah Eraser.
Wake. — (None.)
For the Town of Bath. — William Brown.

Brunswick. — Parker Quince.

Campbelton. — Robert Rowan.

Edenton. — Joseph Hewes.

Halifax. — (None.)

Hillsborough. — Fraticis Nash.

Newbern. — (None.)

Salisbury. — (None.)

Wilmington. — Cornelius Harnett.

Pursuant to which the following persons appeared, viz :

John Harvey,
Andrew Knox,
Joseph Hewes,
Samuel Johnston,
Thomas Oldham,
Thomas Benbury,
Thomas Jones,
Thomas Hunter,
Tsaac Gregory,
Joseph Jones,
John Campbell,
John Johnston,
David t'tauley,
Thomas Hicks,
William Salter,
James White,

Farquard Campboll,
Thomas Rutherford,
Jeremiah Fraser,
James Coor,
Lemuel Hatch,
Thomas Person,
Memucan Hunt,
Francis Nash,
John Simpson,
l-.dward Salter,
William Thompson,
Solomon Sheppard,
Nicholas Long,
Benjamin McCulloch,
William Cray,
Henry Rhodes,

Richard Caswell,
Thomas Macknight,
Solomon Perkins,
Samuel Jarvis,
Nathan Poyner,
Griffith Ruthorford,
Cornelius Harnett,
Robert Howe,
John Ashe,
William Hooper,
Ralph Macnair,
William Person,
Green Hill,
Allen Jones,
Jeptha Atherton,
George Wynns.

257

NORTH-CAROLINA ASSEMBLY, APRIL, 1775.

258

The Clerk of this House waited on his Excellency the
Govemour, and acquainted him that a sufficient number of
Members to constitute a House were met, and to desire his
Excellency to issue a Commission, and appoint some of the
members of Council to see them qualified.

Being returned, brought for answer that his Excellency
would appoint two of the Members accordingly.

The Honourable Lciois H. De Rossct, and Alexander
McCulloch, Esquires, two of the members of Council
came to the House ; and the above forty-eight Members
were qualified, by taking the oaths by law appointed for
the qualification of publick officers, and repeating and sub-
scribing the test.

Mr. Caswell and Mr. Macknight waited on his Excel-
lency the Govemour to inform him that the Members had
qualified, and that they waited to receive his commands.

Being returned, reported to the House that his Excel-
lency would send a Message to the Members to wait on
him.

Received from his Excellency the Govemour a verbal
message by his Secretary, desiring the attendance of the
Members in the Palace at 12 o'clock.

The Members waited on his Excellency the Govemour
in the Palace, when he was pleased to direct that they
return to the House and make choice of a Speaker.

The Members being returned to the House, Mr. Samuel
Johnston proposed and set up John Harvey, Esquire, who
was unanimously chosen Speaker, and placed in the chair
accordingly.

On motion, Ordered, Mr. Knox and Mr. McCulloch
wait on his Excellency the Govemour, and acquaint him
the House had made choice of a Speaker, and desire to
know when they shall wait on his Excellency to present
him.

Being returned, informed the House his Excellency
would send a message when he would receive them.

Received from his Excellency the Govemour a verbal
message by his Secretary, requiring the immediate atten-
dance of the House in the Palace.

The House waited on his Excellency the Govemour in
the Palace, and presented their Speaker, whom his Excel-
lency was pleased to approve of.

Then Mr. Speaker requested his Excellency to confirm
the rights and privileges of the House, and that no mistake
or errour of his might be imputed to the House ; to which
his Excellency was pleased to answer, he would support
the House in all their just rights and privileges, and then
made a Speech to His Majesty's Council and this House.

Mr. Speaker with the House being returned, Mr. Speak-
er reported that his Excellency the Govemour had made
a Speech to the Council and this House, a copy of which,
to prevent mistake, he had obtained, and laid the same
before the House.

Then, on motion, Ordered, the said Speech be read.

Read the same, and is as follows, to wit :

Gentlemen of His Majesty's Honourable Council,

Mr. Speaker, and Gentlemen of the House of Assembly :

1 have now met you in General Assembly, in hopes that,
dismissing every cause of private dissention from your
minds you will calmly, unitedly, and faithfully apply
yourselves to the discharge of the high and important
office of legislation, in which you bear so great a share,
according to the Constitution of this Country, that calls
upon you for relief at this time in a most peculiar and
pressing manner.

I look, gentlemen, with the extremest horrour and con-
cern to the consequences of the violent and unjustifiable
proceedings in some of His Majesty's Colonies of this Con-
tinent, where in many places the innocent, unwary, and
ignorant part of the people have been cruelly betrayed
into measures highly inconsistent with their duty and alle-
giance to our most gracious Sovereign and the State, that
tend immediately to involve them in the most embarrassing
difficulties and distresses, and which, if pursued, must ine-
vitably precipitate these Colonies from their present unpa-
ralleled state of prosperity into a train of miseries most
dreadful to contemplate, whence ages of time will not
redeem them to their now envied felicity. You, gentlemen,
are bound by your duty to the King, to the State, and to
this People, as well as 1, by mine, to obviate the contagion

Fourth Series. — Vol. ii. 17

of these evil examples in this Country, and to defend it,
if possible, from the ruin and distraction to which they
plainly lead.

I see with infinite concern the unhappy influence they
have already had among us. The meetings to which the
people have been excited, the appointment of Committees,
the violences these little unrestrained and arbitrary tribu-
nals have done to the rights of His Majesty's subjects, the
flagrant and unpardonable insults they have offered to the
highest authorities of the State, by some of their acts,
which have been made publick ; and the stop that has
been put in some of the Counties to the regular course
of justice, in imitation of the unwarrantable measures taken
in other Colonies, but too plainly evince their baneful pro-
gress here, and loudly demand the most effectual exertion
of your restraining and correcting powers.

You are now, gentlemen of the Assembly, by your duty
to yourselves and to your constituents, most peculiarly
called upon to oppose a meeting of Delegates, which the
people have been invited to choose, and who are appointed
to assemble at this very time and place in the face of the
Legislature. This illegal meeting, pursuant to my duty to
the King and to the Constitution of this Country, and from
regard to your dignity and the just rights of the people, 1
have counteracted, and I shall continue to resist it by every
means in my power. What can this mean, gentlemen ?
Are you not the only lawful Representatives of the people
in this Country, and competent to every legal purpose ?
Will you, then, submit to see your constituents misled, to
violate their dearest privileges by wounding your dignity,
and setting up Representatives derogatory to your just
power and authority ? This, gentlemen, is an insult to you
of so violent a nature that it appears to me to demand
your every possible discouragement, for its evident tendency
is to excite a belief in the people that they are capable of
electing Representatives of superiour powers to the Mem-
bers of your House ; which, if it can possibly obtain, must
lead to obvious consequences, to the destruction of the es-
sence, if not the very being of an Assembly in this Prov-
ince, and finally to the utter dissolution and overthrow of
its established happy Constitution.

This, gentlemen, among others I have before mentioned,
is one of the fatal expedients employed in some of the
other Colonies, under the influence of factious and wicked
men, intent upon promoting their own horrid purposes at
the hazard of their Country's ruin. I hope they have been
adopted here more from a spirit of imitation than ill prin-
ciples, and that you, clearly discerning the mischiefs with
which they are pregnant, will heartily concur with me in
opposing dawnings of so dangerous a system.

As an object of the greatest consequence to all the
Colonies, I would recommend it to your first attention to
employ your utmost care and assiduity to remove those
false impressions, by which the engines of sedition have
laboured to effect (but too successfully) a most unnatural
division between the Parent State and these Colonies,
which, under her protecting, indulgent, fostering care, have
attained to a degree of prosperity beyond all example.
The basest arts have been practised upon the innocent
people, and they have been blindly led to partake in guilt,
to which their hearts are confessedly averse ; and thus, step
by step, they will be seduced from their duty, and all the
bonds of civil society will be destroyed, unless timely
remedies are applied. This, gentlemen, is a melancholy
prospect, that must seriously alarm every gdod subject,
every humane, every honest man ; and it will be your duty,
as guardians of the constitutional rights of the people,
vigorously to oppose proceedings so manifestly subversive
of their freedom and happiness.

Be it your care, then, gentlemen, to undeceive the people ;
to lead them back from the dangerous precipice to which
an ill spirit of faction is urging them, to the paths of their
duty ; set before them the sacred tie of allegiance, by which,
as subjects, they are bound to the State; inform them of
the reciprocal benefits which their strict observance thereof
entitles them to ; and warn them of the danger to which
they must expose their lives and properties, and all that
they hold dear, by revolting from it.

The frequent occasions you have had, in your several
capacities as Members of the Legislature and Magistrates,
most solemnly to swear this allegiance, which is an implied

259

NORTH-CAROLINA ASSEMBLY, APRIL, 1775.

260

duty upon ever)' subject of every State, where it is not
professed and declared, must have brought it home to your
own consideration, and you are therefore certainly well
qualified to explain the obligatory nature and importance
of it to the people. They will naturally look up to you
for a rule of conduct in these wild and distempered times ;
and I have no doubt that, taught by your example, they
will immediately return to their duty and obedience to the
laws, and gladly free themselves from that tyranny which
ill-directed zeal and lawless ambition, by all the arts of
misrepresentation and delusion, are courting them to submit
to. I have the high satisfaction to tell \ou, gentlemen,
that I have already received signal proofs of the steady
loyalty and duty of a great number of the good people of
this Province, and I have the fullest assurance that many
more will follow their laudable example. These, gentle-
men, are favourable presages, upon which 1 congratulate
you, and which I persuade myself your prudent conduct
will improve to the honour and advantage of your Country.

The state of the Colonies is at this time the subject of
the deliberations of the grand Council of the Nation, from
whose wisdom and justice they have every thing to expect
consistent with the principles of the British Constitution
and the general welfare of the Empire, while they continue
in the duty they owe to it. The confessed generous cha-
racter of Britain, and the magnanimity of our most gracious
Sovereign, who, through the whole course of his reign, has
uniformly made the happiness of his people the object of
all his views, and the rule of all his actions, insures it to
them. On this great Arbiter of British rights it therefore
becomes you to rely with the fullest confidence, and to de-
serve, by a dutiful behaviour, its favourable regard. If a
precedent could be wanting, as I cannot suppose it is, to
induce to such right conduct, one of the most respectable
of the Colonies affords it to you ; and you will see, without
question, how highly improper it will be, at such a conjunc-
ture, to countenance any measures of a contrary nature.
If the people of this Colony have any representations to
make to the supreme powers of the State, you are the only
legal and proper channel of their applications, and through
you they may be assured of every attention to their dutiful
petitions. You, gentlemen, I dare say, esteem too highly
the rights of the people committed to your guardianship,
and know too well the limits of your own power, to consign
them to any other hands that must only be disqualified to
serve the people, but will infallibly divest you of that dig-
nity and consequence whieh belong to you as their lawful
Representatives.

Let me hope, gentlemen, that, laying aside all passion
and prejudice, you will calmly, and with one accord, pursue
such a line of conduct in these points of general concern
to America, as may be most likely to heal the unhappy
differences now subsisting between Great Britain and her
Colonies. Consider how great an opportunity you now
have to serve, to save your Country, to manifest your loy-
alty to the best of Kings, and to demonstrate your attach-
ment to the British Constitution— the most free, the most
glorious and happiest political system in the whole world.
If you consult but for a moment your own interest and
welfare, and the happiness of this people, I cannot be dis-
appointed in my hopes that you will avail yourselves of the
occasion. Be it your glory, gentlemen, to record to latest
posterity, that at a time when the monster Sedition dared
to rear his impious head in America, the people of North-
Carolina, inspired with a just sense of their duty to their
King and Country, and animated by the example of its Le-
gislature, stood among the foremost of his Majesty's sub-
jects, to resist his baneful snares and to repel the fell invader
of their happiness. Thus, gentlemen, you may redeem
your sinking Country to prosperity ; thus you will acquire
to yourselves immortal honour and renown : while a con-
trary conduct must inevitably plunge this once happy land
in horrours beyond all imagination ; whence notbing can
recover it but the generous hand of Britain, interposed to
save you from your own destruction. Thus, gentlemen, I
have set before you, upon principles of your duty to the
Constitution and the welfare of your Country, the neces-
sity of discouraging, to the utmost of your power, the illegal
meetingsinto which the innocent people have been betrayed,
and the unlawful establishments and appointments they
have been led to give their sanction to. 1 have also stated

to you the more especial obligations you lie under to pre-
vent that meeting to which the people have been invited
to send Deputies here at this time, and I have fully ad-
monished you of the ruinous consequences of a different
conduct. In addition to these powerful motives, gentle-
men, I am authorized to say, that the unwarrantable mea-
sure of appointing Delegates to attend a Congress at Phila-
delphia, now in agitation, will be highly offensive to the
King, and this, I cannot doubt, will be reason with you of
the greatest force to oppose so dangerous a step.

Your next attention, gentlemen, is due to the particular
state of this Country, that calls for your strictest regard.

The exhausted state of the publick Treasury, the large
demands upon it that remain unsatisfied, the dues of pub-
lick officers that are unpaid, call loudly for your attention
to the ill condition of publick credit and the finances of
this Country, and 1 trust you will not fail to pay that regard
which is due to points of so great importance. I heartily
wish, with regard to matters of finance and modes of taxa-
tion, as well as to the regulation of the Treasury, to draw
your attention to the admirable systems of New-York and
Maryland, in which last Colony publick credit is established
upon the firmest basis; but the example of every other
Colony, with regard to the latter article, I am sorry to say
it, is better than has been yet adopted here.

You have now, gentlemen, a fair opportunity to restore
to this Province, by a law for the permanent establishment
of Courts, that great store of political blessings, arising
from a due and regular administration of justice, of which
I have long lamented to see it deprived. I have received
His Majesty's determination upon the proposed regulations
with regard to proceedings by attachment, which have been
the apparent cause of this misfortune. This I shall com-
municate to you in the course of your session, and I hope
it will obviate all the difficulties that have occurred on this
subject. When the establishment of Courts shall come
under your consideration, you cannot fail to see the neces-
sity of making provision for the Judges, and the propriety
of that provision being adequate and honourable, and suit-
able to offices of so high dignity and importance.

Mr. Speaker, and Gentlemen of the House of Assembly :

I cannot doubt that you will see the same necessity for
supporting the usual establishment of Fort Johnston, found-
ed upon the same principles of public utility that have
induced you to maintain it during so long a series of years.

Gentlemen of His Majesty's Honourable Council,

Mr. Speaker, and Gentlemen of the House of Assembly :

I am sensible that the advanced season of the year re-
quires your attendance on your domestick affairs, and I shall
therefore be glad to find that your unanimity in the conduct
of the very important business you are now met upon,
affords me opportunity to conclude your session speedily
and happily ; on my part, I do assure you, nothing shall be
wanting to promote these good ends. Jo. Martin.

Newbern, 4th April, 1775,

Then, on motion, Ordered, His Excellency the Gov-
ernour's Speech lie for consideration till to-morrow morning.

On motion, James Green, Jr., is appointed Clerk to this
House; James Glasgow, Assistant; Benjamin Ford ham,
Mace Bearer ; Francis Lynaugh and Evan Swann, Door-
keepers.

Mr. Jonathan Hearring, one of the Members for Pas-
quotank County, appeared.

Then the House adjourned till to-morrow morning 10
o'clock,

Wednesday, 5th April, 1775.

The House met according to adjournment.

This House being informed that Mr. Isaac Edwards,
who was elected Member for the Town of Newbern, is
dead :

On motion, Ordered, The following Message be sent to
his Excellency the Governour, to wit:

To His Excellency Josiah Martin, Esquire, Captain-
General, Governour, fyc, &fc.

Sir: This House having been informed that Mr. Isaac
E (wards, who was elected Member for the Town of Acif-
bern, is dead, therefore desire your Excellency will be

261

NORTH-CAROLINA ASSEMBLY, APRIL, 1775.

262

pleased to direct the Clerk of the Crown to issue a writ
for electing a Member for the said Town, to sit and vote in
this present Assembly.

John Harvey, Speaker.
Sent by Mr. Hatch and Mr. Coor.

The House being informed that the Returning Officer
of Guilford County had neglected to make due return
of the Writ of Election for the said County, whereby one
of the Members is deprived of a seat in this House,

On motion, Ordered, That the said Officer be sent for
and brought in custody to the Bar of this House, to answer
for such his conduct.

The Order of the Day being read, Resolved, The House
resolve itself into a Committee of the Whole House to-
morrow morning, to take under consideration His Excel-
lency the Governour's Speech.

Then the House adjourned till to-morrow morning 10
o'clock.

Thursday, 6th April, 1775.

The House met according to adjournment.

On motion, Ordered, That Mr. Ashe, Mr. Rhodes, Mr.
Thos. Rutherford, Mr. Hunt, Mr. Sheppard, Mr. McCul-
loch, Mr. Caswell, Mr. Hewes, Mr. Hill, Mr. Thomas
Jones, and Mr. Gregory, be a Committee of Privileges and
Elections, and that they have power to send for persons,
papers, and records, as the case may require.

On motion, Ordered, That Mr. Harnett, Mr. Hewes,
Mr. Knox, Mr. Cray, Mr. Samuel Johnston, Mr. Hunt,
Mr. Jarvis, Mr. Howe, Mr. John Campbell, Mr. Mac-
knight, Mr. Hooper, Mr. Macnair, and Mr. Long, be a
Committee of Public Accounts ; and that Mr. Ashe, Mr.
Oldham, Mr. John Johnston, Mr. Allen Jones, Mr. Per-
kins, Mr. Thomas Jones, Mr. Simpson, Mr. Farquard
Campbell, Mr. Benbury, Mr. Rhodes, Mr. Gregory, Mr.
Edward Salter, Mr. Fraser, Mr. William Person, and
Mr. Jarvis, be a Committee of Public Claims, in con-
junction with such of the Members of His Majesty's ho-
nourable Council as they shall think fit to appoint, and that
the following Message be sent to the Council, to wit :

Gentlemen of His Majesty's Honourable Council:

This House have appointed Mr. Harnett, Mr. Hewes,
Mr. Knox, Mr. Gray, Mr. Samuel Johnston, Mr. Hunt,
Mr. Jarvis, Mr. John Campbell, Mr. Macknight, Mr.
Hooper, Mr. Macnair, and Mr. Long, on the Public Ac-
counts; and Mr. Ashe, Mr. Oldham, Mr. John Johnston,
Mr. Allen Jones, Mr. Perkins, Mr. Thomas Jones, Mr.
Simpson, Mr. Farquard Campbell, Mr. Benbury, Mr.
Rhodes, Mr. Gregory, Mr. Edward Salter, Mr. Fraser,
Mr. William Person, and Mr. Jarvis, be a Committee of
this House to settle and allow Public Claims, in conjunc-
tion with such of your Honours as you shall think fit to ap-
point. John Harvey, Speaker.
Sent by Mr. McCulloch and Mr. Gregory.

On motion, Ordered, That Mr. William Salter, Mr.
William Person, Mr. Howe, Mr. Stanley, Mr. Coor, Mr.
Sheppard, Mr. Poyner, Mr. Hunter, Mr. Farquard
Campbell, Mr. Caswell, Mr. Thomas Person, Mr. Wynns,
Mr. Long, Mr. Ashe, Mr. Atherton, Mr. Francis Nash,
Mr. Rhodes, Mr. Knox, Mr. Joseph Jones, Mr. Edward
Salter, Mr. Griffith Rutherford, Mr. Fraser, Mr. Hewes,
and Mr. Harnett, be a Committee of Propositions and
Grievances.

The Order of the Day being read, for taking into con-
sideration his Excellency's Speed),

On motion, Resolved, The House resolve itself into a
Committee of the Whole House.

The House resolved itself into a Committee of the Whole
House accordingly, and chose Mr. Andrew Knox Chair-
man, and after some time spent therein, came to several
Resolutions.

Then Mr. Speaker resumed the Chair, and Mr. Chair-
man reported that the Committee had taken under con-
sideration his Excellency the Governour's Speech, and came
to several Resolutions thereon, to wit :

Resolved, That the Committee to be appointed to pre-
pare an Address, in answer to the Governour's Speech, be
instructed to express that the Assembly of North- Carolina
have the highest sense of the allegiance due to the King ;

the oath so repeatedly taken by them to that purpose, made
it unnecessary for them to be reminded of it. That it has
always been their pleasure to express, and will ever be so
to testify by their actions, that allegiance which, however,
they profess to owe to His Majesty as their Sovereign,
who was by the same Constitution which established that
allegiance and enjoined that oath (happily for his subjects)
solemnly bound to protect them in all their just rights and
privileges, by which a reciprocal duty became incumbent
upon both.

That it is the undoubted right of His Majesty's subjects
to petition for a redress of grievances, and to remonstrate
against them either in separate or collective capacity, and
that in order to agree upon such petition or remonstrance,
they have a right to collect themselves together ; and while
they conduct themselves in a peaceable and orderly manner,
they deserve not to be called an illegal meeting, or to have
the imputation of sedition cast upon them. The Assembly,
therefore, can never deem the meeting of the present Con-
vention at Newbern, in order to appoint Delegates to peti-
tion for a redress of grievances, an illegal meeting, nor con-
ceive it derogatory to the power and authority of the
Assembly, or wounding to its dignity ; and that though
the Assembly are the legal Representatives, and perhaps
adequate to every purpose of the people, yet the frequent
unexpected prorogations, some of them proclaimed so late
that many of the Members did not receive information
thereof till their arrival in Town, gave the people no reason
to expect that the Assembly would be permitted to meet
till it was too late to send Delegates to the Continental
Congress at Philadelphia ; a measure which America in
genera], and this Province in particular, thought absolutely
necessary, and which, as it is the full sense of our constitu-
ents, we, as their Representatives, highly approve.

That the Assembly are entirely ignorant of, and do not
believe that any base arts have been practised upon the
people of this Colony, in order to lead them from their
duty ; but that the steps they have taken have resulted from
a full conviction that the Parliament of Great Britain had,
by a variety of oppressive and unconstitutional proceedings,
made the measures they pursued absolutely necessary.
That therefore his Excellency's asserting that such mea-
sures have been owing to base arts practised upon them by
wicked and designing men, is not only an injustice done to
the people, but manifestly tends to weaken the influence
which the united petitions of His Majesty's American sub-
jects might otherwise have upon their Sovereign for a
redress of those grievances of which they have such a right
to complain, and that therefore the Committee be directed,
in the strongest terms, to refute such assertion.

That the House would feel inexpressible concern at the
information given them by his Excellency of his being au-
thorized to say that the appointing Delegates to attend the
Congress now in agitation would be highly offensive to the
King, had they not recently received undoubted informa-
tion that His Majesty has been pleased to receive, very
graciously, the united Petitions of his American subjects,
addressed to him by the Continental Delegates lately con-
vened at Philadelphia ; and that, therefore, they can never
suppose that a similar application to the Throne will give
offence to His Majesty, or prevent his receiving any peti-
tion for redress of grievances which his subjects have a right
to prefer, either separately or unitedly.

That the Committee appointed by the people in the
several Counties and Towns in this Colony, in consequence
of the Resolutions of the Continental Congress held at
Philadelphia, were the result of necessity, not choice, as
the only means left them to prevent, as far as in them lay,
the operation of those oppressive and unconstitutional Acts
of Parliament, endeavoured to be imposed upon America
by Great Britain ; and that the Assembly have not been
informed of any steps taken by those Committees but such
as they were compelled to take from that necessity, and
for the salutary purpose aforesaid.

That the Assembly would be glad to receive information
of any marks of loyalty to the King, given his Excellency
by the inhabitants of this Colony, had not the manner in
which that information was conveyed seemed to be intend-
ed to establish a belief that a great number of the people
of this Province were disaffected to their Sovereign. That,
therefore, the House instruct their Committee to do justice

263

NORTH-CAROLINA ASSEMBLY, APRIL, 1775.

264

to the good people of this Colony, whose Representatives
they are, by bearing testimony to the world in their answer
to the Governour's Speech, that His Majesty has no sub-
jects more loyal than the inhabitants of North-Carolina,
nor more ready, at the expense of their lives and fortunes,
to protect and support his person, crown, and dignity.
That if,1iowever, by the signal proofs his Excellency speaks
of, he means those Addresses lately published in the North-
■Carolina Gazette, said to be presented to his Excellency,
his congratulations thereupon can in no way be acceptable
to the Assembly, but from the consideration that in so
numerous a Colony so few could be found weak enough to
be seduced from their duty, and prevailed upon by the
base arts of wicked and designing men, to adopt measures
so contrary to the sense of all America, and so destructive
of those just rights and privileges it was their duty to sup-
port.

That the Committee be instructed, also, to express the
warmest attachment to our sister Colonies in general, the
highest compassion for the sufferings of the Town of Bos-
ton in particular, and the fixed and determined resolution
of this Colony to unite with the other Colonies in every
effort to maintain those rights and liberties, which, as sub-
jects of a British King, they possess, and which it is a duty
they owe to posterity, to hand down to them unimpaired.

Resolved, That the Committee be instructed to account
for the deficiency of the Public Funds.

That the Committee express their sense of the necessity
of the establishment of Courts of Justice, and their willing-
ness to adopt any plan which they may judge adapted to
the circumstances of the Country.

That the Committee be instructed to express that the
exhausted state of the Finances, and the particular circum-
stances of the Country render it inconvenient and unneces-
sary any longer to support the establishment of Fort John-
ston.

On motion, Ordered, The foregoing Resolutions be in-
structions to the Committee to be appointed to draw up
the Address in answer to his Excellency the Governour's
Speech.

On motion, Ordered, That Mr. Howe, Mr. Hooper,
Mr. Johnston, Mr. Hewes, and Mr. Machnight, be ap-
pointed a Committee to prepare an Address in answer to
his Excellency the Governour's Speech, and report the
same to the House for approbation.

Then the House adjourned till to-morrow morning 10
o'clock,

Friday, 7th April, 1775.

The House met according to adjournment.

Mr. Howe, from the Committee appointed to prepare
an Answer to his Excellency's Speech, informed the House
they had prepared the same, which was read.

On motion, Ordered, The same stand as the Address of
this House: and is as follows, to wit:

To His Excellency Josiah Martin, Esquire, Captain-
General, Governour, fyc, $fc.

Sin : We, His Majesty's most dutiful and loyal subjects,
the Members of the Assembly of North- Carolina, have
taken into consideration your Excellency's Speech at the
opening of this Session.

We met in General Assembly with minds superiour to
private dissension, determined calmly, unitedly, and faith-
fully to discharge the sacred trust reposed in us by our
Constituents. Actuated by sentiments like these, it behooves
us to declare that the Assembly of this Colony have the
highest sense of their allegiance to the King of Great Bri-
tain, to whom alone, as our constitutional Sovereign, we
acknowledge allegiance to be due, and to whom we so
cheerfully and repeatedly have sworn it, that to remind us
of the oath was unnecessary ; this allegiance all past Assem-
blies have, upon every occasion, amply expressed, and we,
the present Representatives of the people, shall be always
ready by our actions with pleasure to testify; sensible,
however, that the same Constitution which establishes that
allegiance and enjoins the oath in consequence of it, hath
hound Majesty under as solemn obligations to protect sub-
jects inviolate in ail their just rights and privileges, wisely
intending, by reciprocal dependance, to secure the happiness
of both.

We contemplate with a degree of honour the unhapp)
state of America, involved in the most embarrassing diffi-
culties and distresses, by a number of unconstitutional inva-
sions of their just rights and privileges, by which the inha-
bitants of the Continent in general, and this Province in
particular, have been precipitated into measures extraordi-
nary, perhaps, in their nature, but warranted by necessity,
from whence, among many other measures, the appoint-
ment of Committees in the several Towns and Counties
took its birth, to prevent, as much as in them lay, the ope-
ration of such unconstitutional encroachments ; and the As-
sembly remain unconvinced of any steps taken by these
Committees but such as they were compelled to take for
that salutary purpose.

It is not to be controverted, that His Majesty's subjects
have a right to petition for a redress of grievances, or to
remonstrate against them ; and as it is only a meeting of
the people, that their sense respecting such petition and
remonstrance can be obtained, that the ri^ht of assembling;
is as undoubted. To attempt, therefore, under the mask
of authority to prevent or forbid a meeting of the people
for such purposes, or to interrupt their proceedings when
met, would be a vain effort unduly to exercise power in di-
rect opposition to the Constitution.

Far be it from us, then, Sir, even to wish to prevent the
operations of the Convention now held at Newbern, or to
agree with your Excellency in bestowing upon them the
injurious epithet of an illegal meeting. They are, Sir, the
respectable Representatives of the people, appointed for a
special and important purpose, to which, though our con-
stituents might have thought us adequate, yet, as our meet-
ing depended upon the pleasure of the Crown, they would
have been unwise to have trusted to so precarious a contin-
gency, especially as the frequent and unexpected proroga-
tions of the Assembly (one of them in particular, as if all
respect and attention to the convenience of their Repre-
sentatives had been lost, was proclaimed but two or three
days before the time which had been appointed for their
meeting) gave the people not the least reason to expect
that their Assembly would have been permitted to sit till
it was too late to appoint Delegates to attend the Conti-
nental Congress at Philadelphia, a measure which they
joined the rest of America in thinking essential to its in-
terest.

The House, Sir, neither know nor believe that any base
arts have been practised upon the people, in order to lead
them from their duty ; but we know with certainty that the
steps they have taken proceeded from a full conviction that
the Parliament of Great Britain had, by a variety of op-
pressive and unconstitutional proceedings, made those steps
absolutely necessary.

We think it, therefore, a duty we owe the people, to
assert that their conduct has not been owing to base arts,
practised upon them by wicked and designing men ; and
have it much to lament that your Excellency should add
your sanction to such groundless imputations, as it has a
manifest tendency to weaken the influence which the united
petition of His Majesty's American subjects might other-
wise have upon their Sovereign, for a redress of those
grievances of which they so justly complain.

We should feel inexpressible concern at the information
given us by your Excellency, of your being authorized to
say, that the appointment of Delegates to attend the Con-
gress at Philadelphia, now in agitation, will be highly
offensive to the King, had we not recently been informed,
from the best authority, that His Majesty has been pleased
to receive very graciously the united Petition of his Ame-
rican subjects, addressed to him by the Continental Dele-
gates lately convened at Philadelphia. We have not,
therefore, the least reason to suppose that a similar applica-
tion to the Throne will give offence to His Majesty, or
prevent his receiving a petition for the redress of grievances,
which his American subjects have a right to present, either
separately or unitedly.

We shall always receive with pleasure the information of
any marks of loyalty to the King, given to your Excel-
lency by the inhabitants of this Colony, but are greatly
concerned, lest the manner in which you have thought
proper to convey that information should excite a belief
that a great number of the people of this Province are dis-
affected to their Sovereign ; to prevent which it is incumbent

265

NORTH-CAROLINA CONVENTION, APRIL, 1775.

266

upon us in this manner solemnly to testify to the world,
that His Majesty has no subjects more faithful than the
inhabitants of North- Carolina, or more ready, at the ex-
pense of their lives and fortunes, to protect and support his
person, crown, and dignity. If, however, by the signal
proofs your Excellency speaks of, you mean those Address-
es lately published in the North- Carolina Gazette, and
said to be presented to you, the Assembly can receive no
pleasure from your congratulations thereupon, but what
results from t tie consideration, that so few have been found
in so populous a Province weak enough to be seduced from
their duty, and prevailed upon by the base arts of wicked
and designing men to adopt principles so contrary to the
sense of all America, and so destructive of those just rights
and privileges it was their duty to maintain.

We take this opportunity, Sir, the first that has been
given us, to express the warm attachment we have to our
sister Colonies in general, and the heartfelt compassion we
entertain for the deplorable slate of the Town of Boston in
particular, and also to declare the fixed and determined re-
solution of this Colony to unite with the other Colonies in
every effort to retain those just rights and liberties which,
as subjects to a British King, we possess, and which it is
our absolute and indispensable duty to hand down to pos-
terity unimpaired.

The exhausted state of the publick funds, of which your
Excellency complains, we contemplate with great concern,
alleviated, however, by the reflection that it has not been
owing to any misconduct in the Assembly. We were with-
held from passing any inferiour Court Law, but upon such
terms as our duty rendered it impossible to accept ; by which
means no list of taxables could be taken for the year one
thousand seven hundred and seventy-three, and conse-
quently no money collected to defray the charges of Gov-
ernment for that year ; and as your Excellency did not
think proper to meet the Assembly at their usual time of
meeting in the fall, no Act could be passed to defray the
contingent charges of Government for the year one thou-
sand seven hundred and seventy-four. The Treasury, by
these means, deprived of two years' collection of taxes,
must consequently be unable to answer the great demands
upon it till an Act of Assembly can be passed to enable it
to discharge them.

The House, convinced of the necessity of Courts of
Justice, would willingly adopt any plan for the establish-
ment of them, which, in their opinion, is consistent with
the circumstances of this Colony ; and for independent
Judges, of capacity and integrity, they would, with the
greatest pleasure, very liberally provide.

We are sorry, Sir, the impoverished state of the publick
finances will not permit us to provide for the usual estab-
lishment of Fort Johnston.

The advanced season of the year, which, of all other
times, made it most inconvenient for us to attend publick
business, will, your Excellency may assure yourself, induce
us to forward it with all possible expedition.

John Harvey, Speaker.

Resolved, That the House do highly approve of the
Proceedings of the Continental Congress lately held at
Philadelphia, and that they are determined, as members
of the community in general, that they will strictly adhere
to the said Resolutions, and will use what influence they
have to induce the same observance in every individual of
this Colony.

This House having received information that William
Hooper, Joseph Hewes, and Richard Caswell, Esquires,
were appointed, by the Convention held at Newbem, as
Delegates to attend the meeting of the Continental Con-
gress soon to be held at Philadelphia ;

Resolved, That the House approve of the choice made
by the said Convention.

Resolved, That the thanks of the House be given to
William Hooper, Joseph Hewes, and Richard Caswell,
Esquires, for the faithful and judicious discharge of the
important trust reposed in them as Delegates for this Colo-
ny at the late Continental Congress.

Mr. II i/liam Brown, the Member for Bath Town, Mr.
Thomas Respess, one of the Members for Beaufort Coun-
ty, Mr. Jonathan Hearring, one of the Members for Pas-
quotank County, and Mr. William Hayivood and Mr.

Elisha Battle, the Members for Edgecombe County, ap-
peared.

The Honourable John Rutherford and Lewis H. De
Rosset, Esquires, two of the Members of Council, came
to the House, and Mr. Brown, Mr. Respess, Mr. Hear-
ring, Mr. Haywood, and Mr. Battle were qualified, by
taking the several oaths by law appointed for qualification
of Publick Officers, and repeating and subscribing the
Test.

Then the House adjourned till to-morrow morning, ten
o'clock.

Saturday, April 8, 1775.

His Excellency the Governour, by Proclamation, was
pleased to dissolve the Assembly.

At a Council held at the Council Chamber, the 7th of
April, 1775, in the evening, Present: His Excellency the
Governour, the Honourable James Hasell, John Ruther-
ford, Lewis H. He Rossett, Alexander Mc Culloch, Sam-
uel Strudtvick, Martin Howard, Samuel Cornell, and
Thomas McGuire, Esquires :

His Excellency laid before the Board the Journals of
the House of Assembly, in which was contained, amongst
other unwarrantable proceedings, the following Resolve:

" Resolved, That the House do highly approve of the
Proceedings of the Continental Congress lately held at
Philadelphia, and that they are determined, as members
of the community in general, that they will strictly adhere
to the said Resolutions, and will use what influence they
have to induce the same observance in every individual of
this Colony."

Upon consideration hereof, this Board gave it as their
opinion, that the longer existence of such a House of As-
sembly is incompatible with the honour of the Crown and
the safety of the people, and therefore unanimously advised
His Excellency to dissolve them, which was done by the
following Proclamation :

North- Carolina, ss.

By His Excellency Josiah Martin, Esquire, fyc.
A Proclamation.

Whereas several Resolves appear on the Journals of the
House of Assembly, now sitting, tending to alienate the
affections of His Majesty's subjects, and subvert the Con-
stitution ; and whereas the longer existence of such an As-
sembly is incompatible with the honour of the Crown and
the safety of the people : 1 have therefore thought fit, by
and with the advice and consent of His Majesty's Council,
to dissolve the said Assembly, and it is accordingly dis-
solved.

Given under my hand, Sic, at Newbem, Sic, this 8th
day of April, 1775, Sic Jo. Martin,

God save the King.

NORTH-CAROLINA PROVINCIAL CONVENTION.

The Journal of the Proceedings of the Provincial Con-
vention of North-Carolina, held at Newbern, on the
third day of April, A. D. 1775.

North- Carolina, ss.

At a General Meeting of the Delegates of the Inhabi-
tants of this Province, in Convention, at Neivbem, the
third day of April, in the year 1775, Present —

Anson County. — (None.)

Beaufort. — Roger Ormond, Thomas Respess, Junior.

Bladen. — William Salter, James White.

Bute. — William Person, Green Hill, James Ransom.

Thomas Eaton.
Brunswick. — John Rowan, Robert Howe.
Bertik. — John Campbell, David Stanley, John Johnston.
Craven. — James Corr, Lemuel Hatch, Jacob Blount.

William Bryan, Richard Cogdell, Joseph Leech.
Carteret. — William Thompson, Solomon Sheppard.
Currituck. — Thomas Macknight, Francis Williamson.

Samuel Jarvis, Solomon Perkins, Nathan Poyner.
Chowan. — Samuel Johnston, Thomas Oldham, Thomas

Jones, Thomas Benbury. Thomas Huntir.

267

NORTH-CAROLINA CONVENTION, APRIL, 1715.

368

Cumberland. — Thomas Rutherford, Farquard Campbell.

Chatham. — ('None.)

Dobbs. — Richard Casivell, William McKinnie, George

Miller, Simon Bright, Junior.
Duplin. — Thomas Gray, Thomas Hicks.
Edgecombe. — (None.)
Gkanville. — Thomas Person, John Perm, Robert Mun-

fort, Robert Williams, Memucan Hunt.
Guilford. — Alexander Martin.
Hyde. — (None.)

Hertford. — George Wynns, Joseph Worth.
Halifax. — Willie Jones, Benjamin McCulloch, Nicholas

Long.
Johnston. — (None.)
Mecklenburgh. — (None.)
Martin. — (None.)

New-Hanover. — William Hooper, John Ashe.
Northampton. — Allen Jones, Jeptha Atherton.
Orange. — Thomas Hart, Thomas Burke, John Kinchen,

Francis Nash.
Onslow. — Edward Starkey, Henry Rhodes, William

Cray.
Perquimans. — John Harvey, Benjamin Harvey, Andrew

Knox, Thomas Harvey, John Whedbee, Junior.
Pasquotank. — Jonathan Hearring, Edward Everigin,

Isaac Gregory, Joseph Jones, Joseph Reading.
Pitt. — John Simpson, Edward Salter, James Gorham,

James Lanier, William Robson.
Rowan. — Griffith Rutherford, William Sharp, William

Kennon.
Surry. — (None.)
Tryon. — (None.)
Tyrrell. — Joseph Spruill, Benjamin Spruill, Jeremiah

Fraser.
Wake. — John Hinton, Michael Rogers, Signal Jones.
For the Town of Newbern. — Abner Nash, James Davis.
Edenton. — Joseph Hewes.
Wilmington. — Cornelius Harnett.
Bat h . — William Brown.
Halifax. — John Webb, Jos. Montfort.
Hillsborough. — (None.)
Salisbury. — (None.)
Brunswick. — Parker Quince.
Campbleton. — Robert Rowan.

The respective Counties and Towns having certified
that the preceding persons were duly elected Delegates
to represent the said Counties and Towns in the General
Convention, to he held at Newbern, the third day of April
instant :

Pursuant to which, the following persons appeared, to
wit :

Roger Ormond,
Thomas Respess,
William Salter,
James White,
William Person,
Green Hill,
Thomas Eaton,
John Campbell,
John Johnston,
James Corr,
Lemuel Hatch,
Jacob Blount,
Richard Cogdell,
Joseph Leech,
William Thompson,
Solomon Sheppard,
Thomas Macknight,
Samuel Jaryis,
Solomon Perkins,
Nathan Poyner,
Samuel Johnston,

Thomas Oldham,
Thomas Jones,
Thomas Benbury,
Thomas Hunter,
Joseph Hewes,
Thomas Rutherford,
Farquard Campbell,
Richard Caswell,
Thomas Person,
James Lanier,
John Penn,
Thomas Hicks,
Memucan Hunt,
Willie Jones,
Benjamin McCulloch,
Nicholas Long,
William Hooper,
John Ashe,
Allen Jones,
Jeptha Atherton,

Thomas Burke,
Francis Nash,
Edward Starkey,
Henry Rhodes,
William Cray,
John Harvey,
Andrew Knox,
Isaac Gregory,
Joseph Jones,
Griffith Rutherford,
William Sharp,
Jeremiah Fraser,
John Hinton,
Abner Nash,
James Davis,
Cornelius Harnett,
William Brown,
John Simpson,
Edward Salter,
James Gorham.

The Delegates then proceeded to make choice of a
Moderator, when Colonel John Harvey was unanimously
chosen, and Mr. Andrew Knox appointed Clerk.

Resolved, That the Moderator adjourn the Convention,
de die in diem, until the business is finished.

The Convention is adjourned till to-morrow morning,
nine o'clock.

Tuesday, April 4, 1775.

The Convention met, according to adjournment.

Mr. John Webb, Delegate for the Town of Halifax,
Mr. William Bryan, one of the Delegates for Craven
County, Mr. George Wynns, one of the Delegates for

Hertford County, and Mr. Alexander Martin, a Delegate
for Guilford County, appeared, and took their seats in
Convention.

The Convention adjourned till to-morrow morning, nine
o'clock.

Wednesday, April 5, 1775.

The Convention met, according to adjournment.

Mr. Jonathan Hearring, one of the Delegates for Pas-
quota?ik County, and Mr. David Stanley, one of the
Delegates for Bertie County, appeared, and took their
seats in Convention.

The Association entered into by the General Congress
at Philadelphia, on the 20th day of October, in the year
of our Lord 1774, and signed by the Members thereof,
was presented to this Convention by Colonel Richard
Casiaell, and, on motion, was ordered to be read, and was
accordingly read.

Resolved, That this Convention do highly approve of
the said Association, and do, for themselves, firmly agree
to adhere to the said Association, and recommend it to their
constituents that they likewise adhere firmly to the same.
In full approbation and testimony whereof, the Members
of this Convention subscribe their names.

John Harvey,

Roger Ormond,
Thomas Respess, Jun..
William Salter,
James White,
William Person,
Thomas Eaton,
John Campbell,
John Johnston,
James Corr,
Lemuel Hatch,
Jacob Blount,
Richard Cogdell,
Joseph Leech,
William Bryan,
William Thompson,
Solomon Sheppard,
Samuel Jarvis,
Solomon Perkins,
Nathan Poyner,
Samuel Johnston,
Thomas Oldham,
Thomas Jones,

Thomas Benbury,
Thomas Hunter,
Farquard Campbell,
Richard Caswell,
Thomas Person,
Thomas Hicks,
John Penn,
Memucan Hunt,
Willie Jones,
Benjamin McCulloch,
Nicholas Long,
William Hooper,
John Ashe,
Allen Jones,
Jeptha Atherton,
Thomas Burke,
Francis Nash,
Edward Starkey,
Henry Rhodes,
William Cray,
Andrew Knox,
Isaac Gregory,

Joseph Jones,
Jonathan Hearring,
Griffith Rutherford,
William Sharp,
Jeremiah Fraser,
John Hinton,
Abner Nash, •
James Davis,
Joseph Hewes,
Cornelius Harnett,
William Brown,
John Simpson,
Edward Salter,
James Gorham,
James Lanier,
John Webb,
George Wynns,
Alexander Martin,
David Stanley,
Green Hill,
Robert Howe,
Thomas Rutherford.

In consequence of the preceding Resolve, all the Mem-
bers of the Convention subscribed their names at the table,
except Mr. Thomas Macknight, who refused.

Resolved, That the conduct of William Hooper, Joseph
Hewes, and Richard Caswell, Esquires, in the meeting of
Delegates lately held at Philadelphia, was, in every par-
ticular, worthy of the sacred trust reposed in them ; and
that the Moderator do, in behalf of this Colony in general,
and of this Convention in particular, return them those
thanks which their faithful discharge of such an important
trust so justly merits.

In consequence whereof, the Moderator returned them
thanks in the manner following :

Gentlemen : The sacred trust reposed in you by your
Country so faithfully discharged by you, does honour to
yourselves, justifies the choice made of you by the last
Convention, and places you in a situation to receive the
best reward a patriotick breast can fill, the applause of
your Country ; who, in order to bear testimony of your
merit, have directed me to convey to you their sincere
thanks for the services you have rendered them in the im-
portant office to which they appointed you. And it is with
great pleasure I now, gentlemen, in behalf of this Colony
in general, and of this Convention in particular, return you
those thanks which have been so unanimously resolved by
the Convention to be your due.

To which the Delegates returned the following Answer :

We, the Delegates appointed to represent this Province
in the Continental Congress lately held at Philadelphia,
beg leave to express a heartfelt gratitude for this publick
testimonial which we have received from you of the appro-
bation of our constituents of our conduct, in the most im-
portant transaction in which any member of society can
have been engaged. With diffidence we undertook the
sacred trust of being joined to a body of men appointed to
be the guardians of the constitutional rights and privileges
of British America. If we have executed that charge to

269

NORTH-CAROLINA CONVENTION, APRIL, 1775.

270

give satisfaction to the inhabitants of this Province, our
actions meet the most ample reward that any member of it
can experience. One motive in this important measure,
viz: a sacred regard for the rights and privileges of Bri-
tish America, and an earnest wish to bring about a recon-
ciliation with our Parent State, upon terms constitutional
and honourable to both, have hitherto actuated us. Our
earnest wishes are, that this Province may virtuously ad-
here to the Resolves of the Continental Congress, as the
means which will most probably bring about the end which
all the friends to America most earnestly desire.

At the same time accept, Sir, our warmest acknowledg-
ment for the polite manner in which you have thought fit
to convey the sentiments of this truly respectable body.

On motion, Resolved, That the Instructions of the in-
habitants of Perquimans County to their Delegates ap-
pointed to meet at this Convention, entered into on the
1 1 tli day of March last, be read ; which were read accord-
ingly. One of which said Instructions being, " That the
thanks of the inhabitants of that County be given to Wil-
liam Hooper, Joseph Hewcs, and Richard Caswell, Es-
quires, for their faithful and judicious discharge of the trust
reposed in them at the late Continental Congress."

Pursuant to which, Colonel John Harvey, one of the
Delegates for the said County, in the name of the Inhabi-
tants thereof, gave their thanks to the gentlemen aforesaid.

To which the Delegates returned the following Answer :
Permit us, Sir, to express our sincere gratitude for this
testimony of the approbation given, through you, by the
inhabitants of the County of Perquimans, of the conduct
of us the Delegates of this Province in the Continental
Congress at Philadelphia. Actuated with a zeal for the
preservation of the constitutional liberties of America, and
an earnest desire to bring about a reconciliation with the
Mother Country, upon terms that may restore us to the
fullest enjoyment of our just rights and privileges, and se-
cure them to us in future from the encroachments of weak
or wicked men, we signed our assent to the proceedings of
Congress; and we could meet nothing more convincing of
the propriety of our conduct in the measure, than that it
obtains the approbation of the County of Perquimans.

To you, Sir, we beg leave to offer our tribute of thanks
for the polite manner in which you have thought fit to con-
vey the sense of that respectable body.

On motion, Resolved, That William Hooper, Joseph
Hewes, and Richard Caswell, Esquires, be and they are
hereby appointed Delegates to attend the General Con-
gress to be held at Philadelphia, on the 10th day of May
next, or at any other time and place that shall be appoint-
ed for that purpose. And they are hereby invested with
such powers as may make any acts done by them, or any
of them, or consent given, in behalf of this Province,
obligatory in honour upon every inhabitant thereof.

The Convention adjourned till to-morrow morning, nine
o'clock.

Thursday, April 6, 1775.

The Convention met, according to adjournment.

Mr. William Robson, one of the Delegates for Pitt
County, appeared, and took his seat in Convention.

On motion, Resolved, That each and every County in
this Province raise, as speedily as possible, the sum of
Twenty Pounds, Proclamation Money, to be collected by
the respective Delegates of each County, in manner as
shall appear to them most convenient, and pay the same
into the hands of Richard Caswell, Esquire ; to be by him
equally divided among the Delegates appointed to attend
the General Congress at Philadelphia, as a recompense
for their trouble and expense in attending the said Con-
gress.

Mr. Thomas Maclcnight, a Delegate for the County of
Currituck, having been called upon to sign (with the other
Members of this Convention) the Association approved of
by the Continental Congress held at Philadelphia, there-
upon refused, and withdrew himself:

Resolved, That it is the opinion of this Convention, that
from the disingenuous and equivocal behaviour of the said
Thomas Maclcnight, it is manifest his intentions are inimi-
cal to the cause of American Liherty ; and we do hold him

up as a proper object of contempt to this Continent, and
recommend that every person break off all connection,
and have no future commercial intercourse or dealing with
him.

Resolved, That the above Resolve be published in the
Gazettes of this and the neighbouring Colonies.

The Convention adjourned till to-morrow morning nine
o'clock.

Friday, April 7th, 1775.

The Convention met according to adjournment.

Resolved, That the Moderator of this Convention, and
in case of his death, Mr. Samuel Johnston, be empowered
on any future occasion, that may in his opinion require it,
to direct Delegates to be chosen for the respective Coun-
ties and Towns in this Province, to meet in Convention in
the Town of Hillsborough, at such time as he shall think
proper to appoint ; and in case that the Members of a ma-
jority of the Counties and Towns do not appear at the day
appointed, that he be empowered to adjourn the Conven-
tion de die in diem, until a sufficient number shall appear.

Resolved, That the Clerk furnish Mr. James Davis
with a copy of the Proceedings of this Convention, and
that Mr. Davis print the same.

Resolved, That this Convention do most heartily ap-
prove of the conduct and Proceedings of the late Conti-
nental Congress, and will endeavour to carry into execution
the measures by them recommended ; and that the most
earnest wishes and desires of this Convention are, to see
harmony restored between Great Britain and her Colonies
on honourable and constitutional principles, which alone
can give the same a lasting foundation. That we will
exert our utmost endeavours towards completing this im-
portant purpose, and are of opinion that the late commer-
cial regulations are the most eligible means for attaining
this desirable end.

And whereas the freedom, happiness, and prosperity of
every State greatly depends on providing within itself
articles necessary for subsistence, clothing, and defence of
its inhabitants :

Resolved, That from common prudence and regard for this
Colony, we will encourage Arts, Manufactures, Agriculture,
and every kind of economy, and use our influence for the
same purpose with our constituents and all connected with
us ; and we recommend to the Committees of the several
Counties to propose Premiums to the inhabitants whose
industry may be a proper subject for their bounty, in such
manner as to them shall seem meet.

Resolved, That His Majesty's subjects have an un-
doubted right at any time to meet and petition the Throne
for a redress of grievances, and that such right includes a
further right of appointing Delegates for such purpose, and
therefore that the Governour's Proclamation issued to for-
bid this meeting, and his Proclamation afterwards com-
manding this meeting to disperse, are illegal, and an in-
fringement of our just rights, and therefore ought to be
disregarded as wanton and arbitrary exertions of power.

Resolved, That the thanks of this Convention be given
to the Honourable John Harvey, Esquire, Moderator, for
his judicious and faithful exercise of that office, and the
services he has thereby rendered to his Country.

Resolved, That the Honourable John Harvey, Esquire,
Moderator of this Convention, sign the Minutes for and in
behalf of the same. Attested by

John Harvey, Moderator.

Andrew Knox, Clerk.

VINDICATION OF THOMAS MACKNIGHT AND OTHERS.

At a Convention of Delegates for the respective Coun-
ties and Towns within this Province, held at Newbern the
6th day of April, 1775 :

Mr. Thomas Maclcnight, a Delegate for the County of
Currituck, having been called upon to sign (with the other
Members of this Convention) the Association approved of
by the Continental Congress, thereupon refused, and with-
drew himself:

Resolved, That it is the opinion of this Convention,
that from the disingenuous and equivocal behaviour of the
said Thomas Maclcnight, it is manifest his intentions are
inimical to the cause of American Liberty ; and we do

271

NORTH-CAROLINA CONVENTION, APRIL, 1775.

272

hold him up as a proper object of contempt to this Conti-
nent, and recommend that every person break off all con-
nection, and have no future commercial intercourse or
dealing with him.

Resolved, That the above Resolve be published in the
Gazettes of this and the neighbouring Colonies.

A true copy from the minutes.

Attested by Andrew Knox, Clerk.

We, the subscribers, Samuel Jarvis, Solomon Perkins,
and Nathan Poyner, late Representatives for the County
of Currituck, in a Convention of Deputies for the Province
of North- Carolina, held at Newbern, on the 3d day of
April, 1775, and Jonathan Hcarring and Isaac Gregory,
Representatives in the said Convention for the County of
Pasquotank, having found ourselves under the disagree-
able necessity of withdrawing from the said meeting, and
being denied the justice of having our reasons entered on
the Journals of their Proceedings, (that is, by an express
refusal to the Representatives for Currituck, which was the
only cause that those for Pasquotank did not apply,) have
only this resource left for vindicating our conduct to the
world, and rescuing the character of a gentleman we
greatly esteem from undeserved obloquy and reproach.

The facts, upon which the necessity we were unhappily
reduced to was founded, are simply these : Upon its being
moved and seconded, in the course of the business of the
said Convention, that a vote should pass expressing a high
approbation of the Continental Association, Mr. Thomas
Macknight, a Representative for the County of Currituck
aforesaid, got up and declared, that he was greatly con-
cerned he could not heartily concur in the vote proposed
to be passed, on account of particular circumstances in his
situation, which obliged him to dislike some part of the
Association ; that he owed a debt in Britain, which the
operation of the Non-Exportation Agreement would dis-
able him to pay, and that he could not approve of a con-
duct in a collective capacity, which, as an individual, he
should blush to acknowledge ; that he thought it a duty he
owed to his own sincerity to mention this sentiment, but
did not mean to obstruct the good purposes proposed by
an union of measures ; that he would cheerfully comply
with the Non-Consumption and Non-Importation Agree-
ments, and should give a passive obedience to the non-
exportation article ; that an individual, as a member of
society, ought to conform his actions to the general will of
it, but that opinions could not be altered without convic-
tion, or insincerely expressed without dishonesty.

In consequence, however, of this declaration, notwith-
standing Mr. Macknight expressly said, that he desired
not any disapprobation of the measure to be expressed by
that body, and was only willing to acquit himself of his
duty, by declaring in Convention his own sentiments of it,
it was proposed and carried, that a declaration to the pur-
port above-mentioned should be signed by all the members.
All of them accordingly subscribed their names to the Re-
solve, highly approving, &c, as entered on the Journal,
except Mr. Macknight, who desired he might have leave
to reduce his reasons to writing, that they might be entered
on the Journals, together with his refusal, which was agreed
to; but on his presenting them the next day, when called
upon again to subscribe, they would not suffer them even
to be read ; but the question being proposed, whether his
signing that " he would conform " to the Contienntal As-
sociation would be satisfactory, they divided, fourteen
Counties to fourteen, and the Moderator declined giving
the casting vote.

While the Convention was waiting till the Representa-
tive of a Town, who was sent for on purpose to decide
the question, should come in, Mr. Macknight was informed
that it would give general satisfaction if he would insert in
the declaration the word " accede;" which on his agreeing
to do, two members immediately voted in his favour, who
had before given their votes against him, and this now-
carried the question for him ; but the minority being
greatly discontented, several of them declared, that if any
subscription, different from theirs, was accepted from him,
they would withdraw from the Convention; upon which
he declared immediately, (being, as we conceive, healed
by the violence and arbitrariness of his opponents' con-
duct,) that to cut the matter short, and prevent further

dissensions in the Convention on his account, he would
withdraw himself from them, thinking, as he has since
assured us, (and we have never had any reason to doubt
his veracity,) that such a step in one individual, who still
left his constituents represented in Convention, would not
be so prejudicial to the purpose of the meeting, as if it
was taken by the many who threatened it. Upon which,
the vote of censure and civil excommunication was pro-
posed and passed by a majority, declaredly on account of
his intentions, which we, however, believe always to have
been friendly to the cause of American liberty ; his actions
evidently showing to us, who are his neighbours, the up-
rightness of his intentions. Nor did we observe any disin-
genuous or equivocal behaviour in Mr. Macknight, to war-
rant the censure of the Convention in the smallest degree ;
but some of those who were with him before being now-
offended by his withdrawing from amongst them, joined the
other party.

The members for Currituck, on the last day of the Con-
vention, offered the reasons of their dissent and withdraw-
ing ; but no kind of attention being paid to them by the
Convention, two of the three Pasquotank members being
also ready to present theirs, thought it useless, more espe-
cially as the Moderator was hastening to sign the Journals ;
the majority ordering him to do so, as we believe, lest the
dissentients should appear on the Journals ; and we know
that many were determined to dissent from so unjust a cen-
sure. We, however, withdrew ; and declare that we do
not consider ourselves or our constituents bound by the
Proceedings of this Convention ; because, in other respects
relative to the publick, this Convention have acted con-
trary to the sentiments of our constituents, expressly de-
clared to us, and have gone beyond the powers with which
we are invested to act in their behalf.

The above being a true statement, in substance, of the
proceedings we complain of, we appeal to the world, whe-
ther the violence of insisting on a consistency of opinion in
every individual instance, of all the Representatives of a
Province present, or an insincere declaration to be sub-
scribed contrary to a man's own conviction, at a time when
he would most expressly have agreed to regulate his con-
duct by the general voice, (the greatest submission ever
exacted, as the subscribers believe, except in despotick and
tyrannical Governments,) the unjustifiable precipitation
of a great number of the minority, when defeated in
their purposes, which made Mr. Macknight, upon prin-
ciples of affection to the cause they were nominated
to support, offer to withdraw rather than occasion a total
schism in their proceedings ; their refusing to receive
reasons themselves had called for, and agreed to enter
on their Journals, and others which members had ready,
and as we conceive had a right to present, and were enti-
tled to notice, as they were calculated to show the world
their motives for withdrawing from this Convention.

Whether these extraordinary, rash, and unwarrantable
proceedings, together with the other reasons we have as-
signed, do not leave us justified for withdrawing from this
Convention, inasmuch as they have done more than our
constituents warranted us to engage for, and a great num-
ber of the members would not confine themselves to the
rules laid down by the Congress, but required and insisted
upon other terms of union than that respectable body,
whose directions they have all promised to obey, deemed
necessary, or could themselves individually assent to.
Samuel Jarvis, Isaac Gregory,

Solomon Perkins, Jonathan Hearring.
Nathan Poyner,

N. B. The Convention having omitted to publish the
vote which Mr. Macknight refused to subscribe, for the
information of such as have not an opportunity of seeing
the Journals, it is inserted here :

" Resolved, That this Convention do highly approve of
the said Association, and do, for themselves, firmly agree
to adhere by the said Association, and recommend it to
their constituents that they likewise adhere firmly to the
same; in full approbation and testimony whereof the mem-
bers of this Convention subscribed their names."

The Continental Association was not signed by the mem-
bers in this Convention, as might be presumed from the
publication of their Clerk.

273

CORRESPONDENCE, PROCEEDINGS, he, APRIL, 1775.

274

COUNCIL OF NORTH-CAROLINA.

At a Council held at Newbern, the 12th of April, 1775,
Present : His Excellency the Govcrncur, the Honourable
James Hasell, Alexander Mt'Culloch, fl'illiam Dry, Sam-
uel Strudwick, Martin Howard, and Samuel Cornell,
Esquires :

The Governour laid before the Board the Proceedings
of a body of people calling themselves Delegates of the
Inhabitants of this Province in Convention, signed John
Harvey, Moderator, wherein are certain Resolves highly
derogatory to the honour and dignity of His Majesty's
Government, tending to destroy the peace and welfare of
this Province, in the highest degree oppressive of the peo-
ple, and utterly subversive of the established Constitu-
tion :

He, therefore, submitted to the consideration of this
Board the propriety of marking its indignation of such un-
lawful and dangerous proceedings, by striking Mr. John
Harvey out of His Majesty's Commission of the Peace for
the County of Perquimans, where he resides.

The Board fully concurring with His Excellency's sen-
timents of the foregoing proceedings, unanimously advised
that the said John Harvey should be struck out of the
Commission of the Peace for Perquimans County.

The Honourable William Dry, Esquire, took again the
oath appointed to be taken by Privy Counsellors.

to choose any Deputies for such Provincial Congress or
Convention, nor consent to it, but do solemnly bear our
testimony against it.

6th. That we are utterly averse to all mobs, riots, and
illegal proceedings, by which the lives, peace, and property
of our fellow-subjects are endangered ; and that we will, to
the inmost of our power, support our legal Magistrates in
suppressing all riots, and preserving the peace of our liege
Sovereign. Hulet Peters, Town Clerk.

HEMPSTEAD (nEW-YORk) RESOLUTIONS.

Mr. Rivington: You are requested to publish the fol-
lowing Resolutions, unanimously entered into at the most
numerous Town Meeting that has been held here for many
years past : —

Hompstead, April 4, 1775.

At this critical time of publick danger and distraction,
when it is the duty of every honest man and friend to his
Country to declare his sentiments openly, and use every
endeavour to ward off the impending calamities which
threaten this once happy and peaceful land, we, the Free-
holders and Inhabitants of Hempstead , in Queen's County,
in the Province of New-York, being legally assembled on
the first Tuesday in April, 1775, have voluntarily entered
into the following Resolutions :

1st. That as we have already borne true and faithful
allegiance to His Majesty King George the Third, our
gracious and lawful Sovereign, so we are firmly resolved to
persist in the same line of duty to him and his lawful suc-
cessors.

2d. That we esteem our civil and religious liberties
above any other blessings, and those only can be secured
to us by our happy Constitution; we shall inviolably ad-
here to it, since deviating from it and introducing innova-
tions, would have a direct tendency to subvert it, from
which the most ruinous consequences might be justly ap-
prehended.

3d. That it is our ardent desire to have the present un-
natural contest between the Parent State and her Colonies
amicably and speedily accommodated on principles of con-
stitutional liberty, and that the union of the Colonies with
the Parent State may subsist till time shall be no more.

4th. That as the worthy Members of our General As-
sembly, who are our only legal and constitutional Repre-
sentatives, have lately taken the most rational and effectual
measures to bring about this much wished- for accommoda-
tion, by petitioning his most gracious Majesty, a Memorial
to the House of Lords, and a Remonstrance to the House
of Commons; we are determined, therefore, patiently to
wait for the issue of these measures, and carefully avoid
every thing that might frustrate those laudable endeavours
of our Representatives.

5th. That as choosing Deputies to form a Provincial
Congress, or Convention, must have this tendency, be
highly disrespectful to our legal Representatives, and also
be attended, in all probability, with the most pernicious ef-
fects in other instances, as is now actually the case in some
Provinces — such as shutting up the Courts of Justice, levy-
ing money on the subjects to enlist men for the purpose of
fighting against our Sovereign, diffusing a spirit of sedition
among the people, destroying the authority of constitu-
tional assemblies, and otherwise introducing many heavy
and oppressive grievances — we therefore are determined not

Fourth Series. — Vol. II. 18

to the publick.

Hempstead, April, 1775.

At a time when every possible artifice is made use of,
not only to create real divisions and dissensions among us
on points of the last importance to the general weal, but,
at the same time, to hold up an idea of much greater dif-
ference than, in fact, exists, it is the duty of every friend
to truth and the welfare of his Country, to represent trans-
actions of a publick nature in a fair and genuine light.

Influenced by this consideration, I am induced to make
a few remarks on the proceedings of the Town of Hemp-
stead, which have been published in Mr. Pivington's Ga-
zetteer of the 6th instant.

By that publication, it might seem that the Town-Meet-
ing at which the Resolves were passed, had been assem-
bled for the purpose of signifying their sense relative to the
appointment of Deputies to join in the proposed Provincial
Congress, and that the inhabitants of Hempstead were
unanimous in their disapprobation of the measure ; but
this is far from being a just representation of the matter.

The meeting was nothing more than an annual one, in
order to choose Town Officers. No previous notice had
been given, by advertisement or otherwise, that any thing
beside the ordinary business of the day was to be transact-
ed. Not only so, but the Resolutions entered into were
introduced late, after many people had retired from the
meeting. A considerable number of respectable Free-
holders, who are well affected to the appointment of De-
puties, would have attended had they been apprized of
what was designed, and the apparent unanimity with which
the publick has been deceived, could have had no colour
of pretence.

I am one of those who think the union of the Colonies,
in a general and spirited plan of opposition, absolutely ne-
cessary to the preservation of our rights ; and I know there
is a number of principal Freeholders in this Town of the
same sentiments. Our reasons for being willing to concur
in the choice of Deputies, are as follow :

1st. Though we feel ourselves impressed with senti-
ments of unshaken loyalty towards our rightful Sovereign,
George the Third, and should view with indignation and
abhorrence every attempt to diminish his just and constitu-
tional authority over us ; yet we can by no means con-
ceive that loyalty implies in it an abject submission to the
unjust and arbitrary mandates of the British Parliament,
or precludes the use of those expedients which are requi-
site to preserve our lives and properties from the rapacious
hand of tyranny and oppression.

2d. The claim of Parliament to bind us by statutes in
all cases whatsoever, and the several acts passed in conse-
quence of it, appear to us an open and flagrant violation of
our rights, both as men and Englishmen, and ought to be
opposed by every necessary means.

3d. It is our opinion that no rational mode of opposition
could, in our present circumstances, be concerted, but by
the united concurrence of all the Colonies. Without this.
our measures must be partial and divided, and consequently
weak and ineffectual. One Colony could not oblige ano-
ther to accede to any thing itself might deem prudent and
efficacious. Difference in opinion might prevent the
adoption of those measures which were most likely to suc-
ceed, and our opposition, instead of tending to any desira-
ble end, would only serve to render us contemptible, and
the scoff of our enemies.

4th. Provincial Assemblies have frequently been dis-
solved for asserting their rights; and it would be in the
power of the several Governours to keep them from sitting
whenever they found they were likely to take any step
that would serve to frustrate the designs of the Ministry ;
so that not much reliance could be had upon their exer-

275

CORRESPONDENCE, PROCEEDINGS. &c, APRIL, 1775.

276

tions in support of their liherties, which clearly points out
the necessity of having recourse to some other method.

5th. Petitions have been tried more than once to no
good purpose ; and as we have never been admitted into
the secrets of the Cabinet, we can only judge from the
declarations and actions of the Ministry and Parliament,
from which we are compelled to believe that they would
now, if unseconded, be equally fruitless and insignificant.
Nor can we think it prudent or safe to wait the issue of
one more trial, before we proceed to other measures, as is
recommended by some ; because we are sensible that the
delay would be attended with many dangerous conse-
quences, and might, at least, protract our sufferings to a
very disagreeable length. We would not presume to im-
peach the conduct of our Assembly ; but judging from past
experience and a long train of facts, we are unable to im-
agine what could lead them to expect such happy effects
from this source alone, especially as the Assemblies of the
other Provinces have manifested by their conduct a quite
different opinion.

6th. As we think a Continental Congress necessary, for
the reasons already assigned, so we think a Provincial Con-
gress the only equal and just method of regulating a re-
presentation of the whole Province. Nor do we appre-
hend any mischiefs from the appointment of such a body,
because no other authority has been delegated to them
than barely that of choosing proper persons to represent
the Colony in that Convention, which is to be held at
Philadelphia in May ensuing.

7th. As to the shutting up the Courts, which is said to
have taken place in some of the Colonies, we consider it
as a regulation by them thought necessary, to prevent any
advantage being taken of the present critical situation of
affairs, and as being done with the general consent and ap-
probation of the people; and we are informed they have
used proper methods to prevent any abuses which might
arise therefrom. We know not of any Provincial Con-
gresses which have levied money on the subject to enlist
men for the purpose of fighting against our Sovereign.
We have, indeed, heard of some which have recommend-
ed it to their constituents to raise a fund for the support of
those who might be employed in acquiring a knowledge of
military discipline, in order to defend themselves, should
they be reduced to the dreadful alternative of either main-
taining their liberties, at the risk of their lives, or of sub-
mitting to become the slaves of their fellow-subjects in
Great Britain.

8th. We cannot consider the power delegated in the
present instance, either as interfering with the authority of
our Assembly, or as being a mark of disrespect towards
it ; because we are confident, that had they considered it
in that light, they would not have been so wanting to them-
selves, or so inattentive to their just rights, as to have look-
ed on passively while such measures were in agitation,
but would have taken proper steps to secure their own dig-
nity and authority from all infractions and violations what-
soever ; and because the general state of American affairs
requires measures that are beyond the power of any one
particular Assembly, should it think proper, from peculiar
motives, to observe a line of conduct altogether singular
and different from that of the other Assemblies, which are
embarked in the same common cause.

A Freeholder op Hempstead.

TOWN-MEETING, ORANGE COUNTY, NEW-YORK.

At an annual Town-Meeting of the freeholders and in-
habitants of the Precinct of Goshen, in the County afore-
said, on Tuesday the 4th of April, 1775, the following
question, Whether any Deputies should be sent from this
Precinct to meet Deputies from the other Counties at New-
York, the 20th instant, to join with them in choosing pro-
per persons as Delegates on the part of this Province, to meet
in General Congress at Philadelphia, on the 10th of May
next, was put, and carried unanimously in the affirmative.

A motion was then made by several persons, that Henry
Wisner and Peter Clowsc, Esquires, be appointed Deputies
for the above purpose; and the question being accordingly
put, it was carried in the affirmative, without one dissenting
voice.

And at an annual Town-Meeting held the day aforesaid

at Cornivall Precinct, in the County aforesaid, a motion
was made, that Mr. Israel Seely, of said Precinct, be ap-
pointed one of the Deputies for the aforesaid County, to
meet Deputies from the other Counties, at Xeic- York, on
the 20th instant, to join in choosing pome proper persons to
be sent as Delegates to represent this Province in General
Congress at Philadelphia, the 10th of next month ; and
the question being accordingly put, it was carried by a great
majority in the affirmative.

Committee Chamber, Baltimore, April 5, 1775.

Information being made to the Committee that a few
individuals, inhabitants of this Town, have of late worn
pistols or private arms, alleging, in justification of their con-
duct, " that a motion had been made in the Committee to
sacrifice some of .the persons in this Town who differed
from them, or were averse to the publick measures now car-
rying on in this Province, and that they wore arms against
any such attempts :"

The Committee, to remove any prejudice that may be
taken by the publick against them, and to prevent the ill
effects of such false and injurious reports, if circulated
without contradiction, do solemnly declare that no such mo-
tion was ever made, or any entry relative to the same min-
uted in their proceedings. A few members of the Com-
mittee were of opinion that the names of such persons,
who, upon application, had refused to contribute for the
purchase of arms and ammunition, should be published ;
but even this measure was overruled in the Committee, as
improper at that time.

Ourmeetings have been held in publick, norhas any person
who thought fit to attend ever been excluded ; our records
are free and open for inspection. From the publick we re-
ceived our authority, not by personal solicitation, but a free
and voluntary choice; to that tribunal we submit our actions.

Although we have uniformly persevered, and are deter-
mined to persevere in carrying into execution the Associa-
tion and measures of the Congress, yet, in no instance
have we exceeded the line pointed out by that Assembly
and our Provincial Assembly ; and abhorring every idea of
proscription, the Committee call upon the persons who
have circulated the aforesaid report to disclose the author.

A true extract from the Minutes:

R. Alexander, Secretary.

JOHN POWNALL, SECRETARY TO THE BOARD OF TRADE,
TO THE GOVERNOURS OF THE SEVERAL COLONIES IN
NORTH AMERICA.

Whitehall, April 5, 1775.

Sir : I have the honour to send you herewith, by Lord
Dartmouth's directions, an Act of Parliament, to which
His Majesty gave the royal assent on Friday last, entitled
" An Act to restrain the Trade and Commerce of the
Provinces of Massachusetts-Bay and New-Hampshire, and
Colonies of Connecticut and Bhode- Island and Providence
Plantation, in North America, to Great Britain, Ireland,
and the British Islands in the West-Indies, and to prohibit
such Provinces and Colonies from carrying on any Fishery
on the Banks of Newfoundland, or other places therein
mentioned, under certain conditions and limitations;" and
I am to desire that you will be pleased to cause the said Act
to be made publick in such manner as has been usual on
like occasions. I am, sir, your most obedient humble ser-
vant, John Pownall.

JOHN POWNALL TO THE GOVERNOURS OF THE SEVERAL
COLONIES.

Whitehall, April 5, 1775.

Sir: As it may be of use that His Majesty's subjects in
America should be informed of the Proclamation issued by
the order of the States General, prohibiting the exporta-
tion of Arms and Ammunition from their Dominions, in
British Ships, or in their own Ships, without leave of their
College of Admiralty, I am directed by Lord Dartmouth
to transmit to you the enclosed Gazette, containing the
said Proclamation, which you will cause to be printed and
published in such manner as you shall think fit.

I am, sir, your most obedient humble servant,

John Pownall.

277

CORRESPONDENCE, PROCEEDINGS, &c, APRIL, 1775.

278

Hague, March 20, 1775.

Their High Mightinesses the States General have this
day issued a Proclamation, of which the following is a
translation :

Proclamation.

The States General of the United Provinces, to all who
shall see or hear these presents read, greeting :

Be it known, that we, for particular reasons thereunto
moving, have thought fit absolutely to prohibit, and we
hereby absolutely do prohibit all exportation of Ammuni-
tion, Gunpowder, Guns, and Shot, by Ships belonging to
the Dominions of Great Britain, provisionally, for the
term of six months, upon pain not only of confiscation of
the Arms and Ammunition which shall be found there on
board, but also of a fine of a Thousand Guilders over and
above, at the charge of the Commander, whose Ship shall
be answerable and liable to execution for the same.

That we have further thought fit to enact, and we do
hereby enact, that during the above-said term of six months,
no Gunpowder, Guns, Shot, or other Instruments of War,
shall be embarked on board any other Ships, whether for-
eign or belonging to this Country, to be transported abroad,
without consent or permission of the College of Admiralty,
under whose jurisdiction the embarkation shall be made,
upon pain of confiscation of the Arms, Gunpowder, Guns,
Shot, or other Ammunition, which shall have been em-
barked without permission, and of the Commander incur-
ring a fine of a Thousand Guilders, on board of whose
Ship the said Arms and Ammunition shall have been em-
barked, and his Ship be answerable and liable to execution
for the said fine.

And that no one may pretend ignorance hereof, we call
upon and require the States, the Hereditary Stadtholder,
the Committee of Council, and the deputations of the
States of the respective Provinces, and all other Officers
and Justices of these Countries, to cause this our Procla-
mation to be forthwith promulgated, published, and affixed,
in all places where such publication is wont to be made.
And we do further charge and command the Counsellors
of the Admiralty, the Advocates General, together with
all Admirals, Vice-Admirals, Captains, Officers, and Com-
manders, to pay obedience to this our Proclamation, pro-
ceeding and causing to be proceeded against the transgres-
sors thereof, without favour, connivance, dissimulation, or
composition. For such have we found meet.

Given at the Hague, under the seal of the States, sig-
nature of the President of our Assembly, and the counter
signature of our Greffier, the 20th day of March, 1775.

G. Van Hardenbroek.

By order of the States General :

H. Fagel.

ORDER IN COUNCIL.

At the Court of St. James's, the 5th day of April,
1775: Present the King's Most Excellent Majesty in
Council.

Whereas, the time limited by His Majesty's Order in
Council of the 19th of October last, for the prohibiting the
exporting out of this Kingdom, or carrying coastwise, Gun-
powder or any sorts of Arms or Ammunition, will expire
upon the 19th of April : And whereas, it is judged expe-
dient that the said prohibition should be continued for some
time longer, His Majesty doth therefore, by and with the
advice of his Privy Council, hereby command, that no
person or persons whatsoever, (except the Master-General,
Lieutenant-General, or principal officers of the Ordnance
for His Majesty's service) do, at any time during six
months, to commence from the said 19th instant, presume
to transport into any parts out of this Kingdom, or carry
coastwise, any Gunpowder, or any sort of Arms or Ammu-
nition, or ship or lade any Gunpowder, or any sort of Arms
or Ammunition on board any Ship or Vessel, in order to
transport the same into any parts beyond the Seas, or car-
rying the same coastwise, without leave or permission first
obtained from His Majesty, or his Privy Council, upon pain
of incurring and suffering the respective forfeitures and
penalties inflicted by an Act passed in the 29th year of
His late Majesty's reign, entitled " An Act to empower
His Majesty to prohibit the exportation of Saltpetre, &ic,
kc"

THOMAS LIFE, AGENT FOR CONNECTICUT, TO GOVERNOUR
TRUMBULL.

Basingliall Street, London, April 5, 177."..

Sir : I received the favour of your last packet, in which
was enclosed a general state of the transactions relative to
the Rev. Samuel Peters, of his applications to you, and
what passed between you on that occasion, and another
letter, dated the 4th January last, in which you mention
the receipt of my letter of the 5th day of October last,
enclosing a copy of Messrs. Pc?in's Petition. On the 20th
of last month, I attended Lord Dartmouth at his levee, and
stated to him the facts from that general state, without de-
livering the state itself to his Lordship, who informed me
that he had seen Mr. Peters but once, and did not seem
to lay any part of the blame upon you ; and whatever views
Mr. Peters may have, I hope he will be disappointed.
There was a flying report sometime ago, that the acts of
some people in your Colony, in going down to Boston to
oppose the King's Troops, had subjected your Charter to
be forfeited, but have not heard any thing lately about it.
The Colony of Rhode-Island, it is said, is likewise in the
same predicament for seizing the King's powder. I received
notice from the Board of Trade to attend them on the 20th
of March last on Messrs. Penn's Petition, which I accord-
ingly did, and prayed two months' time to be heard on be-
half of your Colony by counsel. Mr. Baker, who married
one of Mr. Penn's daughters, appeared on behalf of the
petitioners, and opposed me very strongly, and it was with
the utmost difficulty I obtained time till the first of May
next, and I must be prepared in all events by that time.
Indeed Mr. Baker at first objected to my having any more
time than a fortnight, or a month at most ; but on my repre-
senting that that would fall out in or near Easter week,
their Lordships gave me a fortnight further time. Since 1
wrote by the last packet, Mr. Nuthall is dead and is suc-
ceeded by Mr. Hoole, whom I mentioned in my former
letters to be his partner. On application to this gentleman
he attended with me at the Board of Trade in behalf of
Colonel Dyer and the other Susquehannah proprietors, but
their Lordships would not then hear him, as they were of
opinion that it was not then the proper time.

I am, sir, with the greatest esteem and regard, your most
obedient humble servant, Thos. Life.

The Honourable Jonathan Trumbull, Governour of the
Colony of Connecticut, at Lebanon in Connecticut.

MEETING OF THE LIVERY OF LONDON.

London, April 6, 1775.

Yesterday, at Guildhall, a few minutes after one o'clock,
the Lord Mayor, and Aldermen Bull, Lewes and Neivnham,
with the two Sheriffs, proceeded to the Hustings ; and the
common Crier having made proclamation that the business
on which the Livery were convened, was to consider of a
" Remonstrance and Petition to the Throne, respecting the
measures adopted with regard to America;" the Lord Mayor
came forward and addressed the Citizens in the following
speech :
Gentlemen of the Livery :

It would ill become me, on this important day, to take
up much of your time. I very readily complied with the
request of several respectable fellow-citizens to call this
Common Hall, from every feeling of justice and humanity
to our persecuted brethren in America, and the fatal con-
sequences I foresee of the violent proceedings now carrying
on, which must so deeply affect the prosperity, not only of
this, the first commercial City in the world, but likewise the
whole Kingdom. I will only, gentlemen, beg leave to read
to you, from your own records on this subject, the words
of a Petition from this Metropolis to both Houses of Par-
liament, long before the present unhappy contest between
the Mother Country and her American Colonies began;
so long ago as the year 1739.

" The citizens of London are too deeply interested in
whatever affects the trade of this Nation, not to express
the utmost anxiety for the welfare of that only source of
our riches. The Petitioners apprehend that the trade from
these (His Majesty's Kingdoms) to his American Colonies,
is of the utmost importance, and almost the only profitable
trade this Nation now enjoys unrivalled by others."

279

CORRESPONDENCE, PROCEEDINGS, be., APRIL, 1775.

290

If, gentlemen, die trade to our American Colonies near
forty years ago was, according to the declaied opinion of
this Metropolis, of such importance, the amazing entries
for several late years made in the books of the Custom-
House, which are almost daily before your eyes, will best
demonstrate to what an immense magnitude it is since grown.
Such an object surely calls for our most earnest, unwearied
attention and regard. Whatever your determinations may-
be, you may be assured of the hearty concurrence of your
Chief Magistrate.

Mr. B. Allot, Esq., now moved that such Remonstrance
should be presented, and all hands were held up in favour
of the motion except seven or eight, among whom was Sir
James Esdailc. Mr. Allen made a long and spirited speech,
in which he was very severe on the arbitrary strides taken
by Government, winch rendered it necessary for every man
of spirit to stand up in his own defence. He said that if
he had sat in the House of Commons he should have op-
posed all the late measures, being convinced they were but
the acts of the Minister, who was himself controlled by an
invisible agent. That it was amazing a confidence should
be reposed in a Stuart, by those who ought to fear every
man of the name. Of the Scots in general, Mr. Allen
spoke very handsomely, and wished the English would
copy them in their nationality. He said that the Lord
Mayor had been unjustly accused by a prejudice against
the Scots as a people, and that the Thane had artfully
made this circumstance the ground of national quarrel.
This orator recommended unanimity in the common cause,
but lamented that whenever emoluments were to arise, there
never were wanting bad men, even of rank, who would do
any thing. He said the question now was, whether the
Americans were to be enslaved or not. If Government
was in want of supplies, why did it not take the regular
method of raising them? He concluded by saying, " the
Americans are sons of Britons, and have a right to be free,"
and that he hoped the Hall would be unanimous for the
proposed Remonstrance. Mr. Allen's speech was well
received, and he concluded it with reading the Petition.

It was afterwards moved that the Petition be again read,
which being agreed to, it was accordingly read and ap-
proved of, there not being more than three or four dissent-
ing voices, among whom was Sir James Esdaile.

Mr. Saxby then made a motion, that the said Petition
be fairly transcribed and signed by the Town Clerk ; also,
that it be presented to His Majesty by the Right Honour-
able the Lord Mayor, the Aldermen and Livery of the
City of London, in their gowns ; that the Sheriffs do
wait upon His Majesty, to know when he will be pleased
to receive it ; and that the Lord Mayor be requested to
give the most early and publick intelligence of His Majesty's
answer : all which were carried in the affirmative.

Mr. Saxby afterwards moved, that the thanks of the
Lord Mayor, Aldermen, and Livery, be given to those
Lords who protested against the Acts lately passed respect-
ing America ; to such Members of the House of Commons
who opposed the said Acts and all other anti-commercial
measures ; to Lord Chatham, for offering a conciliatory
plan ; to those Members of the House of Commons who
voted for expunging the Resolutions relative to the Mid-
dlesex Election ; and to Edmund Burke, Esq., for offering
a conciliatory plan. All these motions were unanimously
agreed to.

LETTER FROM THE GEORGIA DELEGATES TO THE CONTI-
NENTAL CONGRESS.

Savannah, Goorgia, April 6, 1775.

Sir: The unworthy part which the Province of Georgia
has acted in the great and general contest, leaves room to
expect little less than the censure, or even indignation of
every virtuous man in America. Although, on the one hand,
we feel the justice of such a consequence with respect to
the Province in general ; yet, on the other, we claim an ex-
emption from it in favour of some individuals who wished
a better conduct. Permit us, therefore, in behalf of our-
selves and many others our fellow-citizens, warmly attached
to the cause, to lay before the respectable body over which
you preside a few facts, which we trust will not only acquit
us ol supineness, but also render our conduct to be approved
by all candid and d'rspa iionate men,

At the time the late Congress did this Province the
honour to transmit to it an Extract from their Proceedings,
enclosed in a friendly letter from the Honourable Mr. Mid-
dleton, the sense and disposition of the people in general
seemed to fluctuate between liberty and conveniency. In
order to bring on a determination respecting the measures
recommended, a few well-affected persons in Sai-annah,
by publick advertisement in the Gazette, requested a meet-
ing of all the Parishes and Districts, by Delegates or Rep-
resentatives in Provincial Congress. On the day appointed
for this meeting, with concern they found that only five
out of twelve Parishes to which they had particularly wrote,
had nominated and sent down Delegates ; and even some of
these five had laid their Representatives under injunctions
as to the form of an Association.

Under these circumstances those who met saw them-
selves a good deal embarrassed ; however, one expedient
seemed still to present itself. The House of Assembly
was then sitting, and it was hoped there would be no doubt
of a majority in favour of American freedom. The plan,
therefore, was to go through with what business they could
in Provincial Congress, and then, with a short address, pre-
sent the same to the House of Assembly, who, it was hoped,
would, by vote, in a few minutes, and before prerogative
should interfere, make it the act of the whole Province.

Accordingly the Congress framed and agreed to such an
Association, and did such other business as appeared prac-
ticable with the people, and had the whole just ready to
be presented, when the Governour, either treacherously in-
formed, or shrewdly suspecting the step, put an end to the
session.

What, then, could the Congress do? On the one hand
truth forbid them to call their proceedings the voice of the
Province, there being but five out of twelve Parishes con-
cerned ; and on the other, they wanted strength sufficient to
enforce them on the principle of necessity, to which all
ought for a time to submit. They found the inhabitants
of Savannah not likely soon to give matters a favourable
turn. The importers were mostly against any inteiruption,
and the consumers very much divided. There were some
of the latter virtuously for the measures ; others strenuously
against them ; but more who called themselves neutrals
than either.

Thus situated, there appeared nothing before us but the
alternative of either immediately commencing a civil war
among ourselves, or else of patiently waiting the measures
to be recommended by the General Congress. Among a
powerful people, provided with men, money, and conveni-
ences, and by whose conduct others were to be regulated,
the former would certainly be the resolution that would
suggest itself to every man removed from the condition of
a coward ; but in a small community like that of Savan-
nah, (whose members are mostly in their first advance to-
wards wealth and independence, destitute of even the neces-
saries of life within themselves, and from whose junction
or silence, so little would be added or lost to the general
cause,) the latter presented itself as the most eligible plan,
and was adopted by the people. Party disputes and ani-
mosities have occasionally prevailed, which show that the
spirit of freedom is not extinguished, but only restrained
for a time till an opportunity shall offer for calling it forth.

The Congress convened at Savannah did us the honour
of choosing us Delegates to meet your respectable body at
Philadelphia, on the tenth of next month. We were sen-
sible of the honour and weight of the appointment, and
would gladly have rendered our Country any services our
poor abilities would have admitted of; but, alas! with what
face could we have appeared for a Province whose inhabi-
tants had refused to sacrifice the most trifling advantages
to the publick cause, and in whose behalf we did not think
we could safely pledge ourselves for the execution of any
one measure whatsoever.

We do not mean to insinuate that those who appointed
us would prove apostates, or desert their opinion ; but that
the tide of opposition was great ; that all the strength and
virtue of these our friends might be insufficient for the
purpose. We very early saw the difficulties that would
here occur, and therefore repeatedly and constantly re-
quested the people to proceed to the choice of other Dele-
gates in our stead ; but this they refused to do.

We beg, sir, you will view our reasons for not attending

281

CORRESPONDENCE, PROCEEDINGS, fcc, APRIL, 1775.

282

in a liberal point of light. Be pleased to make the most
favourable representation of them to the honourable the
Members of the Congress. We believe we may take upon
us to say, notwithstanding all that has past, there are still
men in Georgia who, when an occasion shall require, will
be ready to evince a steady, religious, and manly attach-
ment to the liberties of America. To the consolation of
these, they find themselves in the neighbourhood of a Prov-
ince whose virtue and magnanimity must and will do lasting
honour to the cause, and in whose fate they seemed dis-
posed freely to involve their own.

We have the honour to be, sir, your most obedient and
very humble servants, Noble Wimberly Jones,

Archibald Bullock,
John Houstoun.

To the President of the Continental Congress.

CALVERT COUNTY (MARYLAND) COMMITTEE.

April 5, 1775.

In consequence of an information received, that Mr.
Alexander Ogg, merchant at Huntingtown, had sold and
was selling his goods at a greater advance upon the prime
cost than was recommended by the Provincial Convention,
held at Annapolis in December, 1774, the Committee met
at Huntingtown on Saturday the 25th March, and con-
tinued by adjournment till this day.

Ordered, That the Clerk give notice to said Ogg, and
desire his attendance immediately before the Committee.
Accordingly he attended, and produced his shop-notes and
books, from which it appeared he had sold at a much higher
advance than one hundred and fifty per cent, on the prime
cost.

On motion, Resolved, That said Ogg has violated the
Association, and therefore ought to be deemed an enemy
to the cause of America. Signed per order,

Pat. Sim Smith, Clerk pro tern.

TO THE PUBLICK.

I hereby publickly acknowledge that I have, but with
no sinister intention, violated the American Association in
selling several articles of my last cargo at more than one
hundred and fifty per cent, advance upon the prime cost.
My goods were imported via Philadelphia, and conse-
quently were much more chargeable than if imported di-
rectly into this Province. This extraordinary expense 1
thought I had a right to reimburse myself; but I find I was
mistaken. I am sorry I have offended. I am willing to
make satisfaction as far as is in my power. I shall give
credit in every article where I have charged a farthing
more than one hundred and fifty per cent, upon the prime
cost. And as my character as a vender of goods has hitherto
been very irreproachable, and I have been as zealous an
assertor of American freedom as any man upon ihe Conti-
nent, my sphere of life considered, I hope the publick will
forgive this offence, more especially as it has been owing
to a misapprehension of the matter, and not to any design
of taking advantage of the scarcity of goods that now pre-
vails. Alexander Ogg.

April 13, 1775.

New-York, April 6, 177.',.

A correspondent acquaints us that, on Monday, the 3d
of April, the inhabitants of the Borough of Westchester
met, in consequence of a summons, to give their sentiments
upon a question, whether or not they would choose Depu-
ties to represent them at a Provincial Convention in this
City ; when they declared themselves already very ably
and effectually represented in the General Assembly of
this Province by Isaac Wilkins, Esquire; peremptorily
disowned all Congressional Conventions and Committees,
most loyally repeating the old chorus, God save the King,
which was seconded by three cheers.

On Tuesday, the 11th instant, a General Meeting of the
inhabitants of the County of Westchester is to be held at
the White Plains, to determine whether or not Delegates
shall be sent by them to a Provincial Convention at New-
York.

SUSSEX COUNTY (VIRGINIA) COMMITTEE.

At a Committee held for the County of Sussex, in Vir-
ginia, at the Court-House, on Thursday the Gtb of April,
1775, present : Thomas Pette, Esq., Chairman, and twenty-
seven other Members of the said Committee :

The Proceedings of the Provincial Congress, lately held
in the Town of Richmond and County of Henrico, were
laid before the Committee by the late Delegates for this
County ; and the same being read, and maturely considered,
the Committee came to the following Resolution :

Resolved, That the thanks of this Committee, in behalf
of themselves and their constituents, the good people of this
County, are justly due, and are most unfeignedly given to
the Congress in general, and to our late worthy Delegates
in particular, for the great pains and trouble they bav<
at, and wisdom shewn in their consultations and resolves,
and to assure them that this Committee will adhere strictly
to the spirit of the Resolves of the said Congress.

Signed by order. Thomas Peete, Chairman.

John Massenbtru, Clerk.

TO THE 1'REEHOLDERS AND INHABITANTS OF THE COUNTY
OF WESTCHESTER.

New-York, April 6, 1775.

You are earnestly desired to attend a General Meeting
of the County, to be held at the White Plains, on Tues-
day next, the I lth instant, to give your votes upon the
questions:^

Whether you are inclined to choose Deputies to meet at
the City of New- York, in a Provincial Convention ? Or,

Whether you are determined to abide by the loyal and
judicious measures already taken by your own worthy Re-
presentatives in the General Assembly of this Province, for
a redress of American grievances?

The consequences that may arise from your neglecting
to attend at the White Plains, on Tuesday next, to declare
your sentiments relative to the appointment of Deputies to
meet in Provincial Congress, may be very fatal to this
County. The friends of Government and our happy
Constitution are, therefore, earnestly invited in person, to
oppose a measure so replete with ruin and misery. Re-
member the extravagant price we are now obliged to pay
for goods purchased of the merchants, in consequence of
the Non-Importation Agreement; and when the Non-Ex-
portation Agreement takes place, we shall be in the situa-
tion of those who were obliged to make bricks without
straw.

MEETING OF THE INHABITANTS OF NEW-YORK.

New- York, Thursday, April 6, 1775.

A number of the inhabitants of this City and County
assembled at the Liberty Pole this day, in consequence of
a notification published yesterday for that purpose, when
they immediately proceeded to the choice of a Chairman.
And after the Chairman had fully explained the business
and design of the meeting, a motion was made, that the
following recommendation and advice of the .Committee
should be read : —

To the respectable Inhabitants of the City and County of
New- York.

Friends and Fellow-Citizens : In times so critical
as the present, it becomes the duty of every citizen to pay
particular attention to the welfare of the community, and
to counteract every measure that may tend to injure its
interest.

Influenced by these considerations, we view with concern
the uneasiness occasioned in this City by the late unusual
exportation of Nails; and perceive with anxiety the dis-
tress to which a monopoly of this or any other article may
expose many among us.

For what purpose, or with what design, such a quantity
has, in so short a time, been purchased and exported, we
neither know nor can conceive. The clamour raised
among the Meehanicks, by the scarcity of Nails during the
continuance of the last Non-Importation Agreement, is
recent in our memories ; and though the manufactories
which have since been established will supply more than
sufficient for our own consumption, we apprehend it would
be imprudent thus rashly to part with what we have in
store, especially as this sudden exportation has given just
grounds for suspicion and alarm.

It is not within the limits of our appointment to provide

283

CORRESPONDENCE, PROCEEDINGS, fee, APRIL, 1775.

284

against the evil tendency of this circumstance, by any regu-
lation ; but considering ourselves as fellow-citizens with you,
and deeply interested in every thing that respects the pub-
lick weal, and the support of the great cause in which our
all is at stake, we take the liberty of declaring our senti-
ments upon the occasion ; and recommend to you to avoid
drawing the people of this City into any difficulties or dis-
contents, by exporting or encouraging the monopoly of
such great quantities of Nails as may leave a provision for
our own consumption precarious, especially as it is not
certain whether these Nails, so hastily bought up and ex-
ported, are designed to be used, or to be stored.

Permit us also to submit to your consideration the pro-
priety of supplying the Troops at Boston with implements
of war, and articles essential to hostilities. We cannot
forbear observing, that the duty we owe to our interest and
reputation should lead us to withhold such supplies from
the Troops, at least till we have assurances that nothing
hostile is intended against us. By order of the Committee :

Isaac Low, Chairman.

And the same being read accordingly, and the question
put, whether they approved of the said recommendation
and advice, it was carried in the affirmative unanimously.

Then the question was put, whether we ought to supply
the Troops at Boston with implements of war, and other
necessaries for carrying on their operations against the peo-
ple of Massachusetts-Bay ; which was carried in the nega-
tive, unanimously.

After which, the following motions (in writing) were
delivered to the Chairman :

Mr. Chairman: Whereas William and Henry Ustick,
of this City, Traders, have, for some time past, been en-
gaged in purchasing Spades, Shovels, and other intrenching
tools for the use of the Army now at Boston; and have
likewise employed a number of hands in manufacturing Bill-
hooks, Pickaxes, &c, for the purpose aforesaid ; whereby
they have acted derogatory to the character of good citi-
zens and friends to their Country, as it enables Genera!
Gage to take the field, and carry into execution any hos-
tile plan which he may have conceived against the Province
of the Massachusetts-Bay in particular, and the American
Colonies in general, and may be the means of involving
our Country in bloodshed, and the dreadful calamities at-
tendant on civil war. Tn order, therefore, to testify to the
world our abhorrence and detestation of such vile and infa-
mous conduct, and prevent in some measure the infamy
and reproach which our silence would bring upon the
inhabitants of this City and County in general :

I move that the sense of this body be now taken, whe-
ther the said William and Henry Ustick have not acted
in this matter as inveterate foes to American freedom, and
whether we ought not to break off all connexion and deal-
ing with them for the future?

And the questions being respectively put on the said
motions, they were carried in the affirmative, with only one
dissenting voice.

It was likewise moved, that a Committee should be ap-
pointed to wait on the Importers of Nails, and request them
not to dispose of those which they have on hand to any
person who may purchase them with a design to export
them out of the Province; and a Committee of seven per-
sons was accordingly appointed for that purpose.

ALEXANDER m'DOUGALL TO J05IAH QUINCY, JL'N.

Now-York, April 6, 1775.

Dear Sir : Your favours of the 17th and 19th of De-
cember last, enclosing letters for the friends of the common
cause in Boston and Philadelphia, arrived here the 10th
ultimo; but they were not handed to me before the 25th,
owing to their being in a package belonging to a gentle-
man who was absent when they arrived. Your directions
respecting them were strictly observed, and they were for-
warded the 27th by safe conveyances. I shall take great
pleasure in transmitting your future communications to
your friends.

I wrote you by the March Packet under cover to Mr.
Thomas Bromfidcl, in which I informed you of the pro-
gress then made by our House of Assembly on American
grievances. The assurances I gave you, that what re-

mained of the " Report of the Committee of Grievances "
not then considered by the " Committee of the House,"
would rather be more in favour of liberty than the " Re-
port," has since been confirmed ; the particulars of which
you have in the enclosed printed proceedings of the House.
After the " Statement of Grievances " was agreed to, and ap-
proved of by the House, several of the members who were
warm friends to the cause of liberty, having attended the
Assembly two months, and their families being very remote
from the Capital, and urgent business demanding thcii re-
turn, and considering the most important transactions of
the sessions finished, went home. This gave an opportu-
nity to the wicked and designing members of the House,
contrary to all order, to depart from the spirit of the " List
of Grievances," in a " Petition to the King," " Memorial
to the Lords," and '•' Remonstrance to the Commons."
But the " Statement of Grievances " agreed to by the
fullest House during the sessions, must be considered as the
basis of all their proceedings on the American controversy.
If any regard is to be paid to the sense of the legal Repre-
sentatives, that sense is the "Statement of Grievances"
agreed to in a full House ; and therefore, whatever differ-
ence appears in the " Petition," &,c, from that "Statement
of Grievances" is a mere nullity. If the Ministry make
any dependance on the " Petition," &c, as declarative of
the sense of this Colony, they will find themselves most
egregiously mistaken. This City will publickly disavow
the vile, slavish sentiments contained in the " Petition,"
&tc, the moment they make their appearance. So far as
they are now known, they are condemned, and the patrons
of them despised. And if the Provincial Convention,
who are to meet here on the 20th instant, to elect Dele-
gates for the Continental Congress, do not disavow the
" Petition," &c, which I have reason to conclude they
will, they will certainly join with the Continental Congress
in doing it.

During the Ship Beulah's stay in our Bay she u7as con-
tinually watched by a Sub-Committee, and did not enter.
But while she lay at the Hook waiting for a fair wind, the
night before she departed threatened a storm ; and as the
Boat, on board of which the Sub-Committee attended, was
not so well provided with ground-tackling as the Ship, the
Boat was obliged to go into a cove of safety, at some dis-
tance from the Ship. The owners, who had some goods
on board, having previously meditated a plan to land
them, availed themselves of this opportunity, and effected
it in the night. Of this they were suspected, and our Sub-
Committee of Observation, and the Committee of Eliza-
bethtown, having got a clue to a discovery, the owners
confessed the matter upon oath. Our citizens were so
enraged at them for the horrid deed, that it was with great
difficulty they were prevailed upon not to banish them.
The fearful apprehensions of these persons, and the terms
on which they are suffered to abide here, are fully ex-
pressed in the printed papers which you have herewith.
This is the only violation of the Association we have had
since it took place. The punishment they now, and will
endure, is sufficient to deter any man, however base, from
another breach.

The friends of the Association, and the great cause, are
daily increasing ; so that you have no reason to fear a de-
fection of this Colony. Time will not permit me to be
more particular. I shall continue to enclose you all the
printed papers which I may judge of importance to you,
regardless of the postage, until you direct me to the con-
trary.

1 am, dear sir, in great haste, but with great respect,
your humble servant, Alexander McDougall.

Josiah Quincy, Jun., London.

P. S. As my political character may tempt the tools
of Government to open letters to me, please to cover your
favours to me to Samuel Broome &. Co., Merchants, in
Ncic-York.

FOR MR. RIVINGTON S NEW-YORK GAZETTEER.

Boston, April 6, 1775.

W hereas it is the prevailing rage of the present times
for people of all ranks, orders, and professions, to form
Associations, and erect themselves into what they call
Congresses and Committees of various denominations ;

285

CORRESPONDENCE, PROCEEDINGS, fee, APRIL, 1775.

286

who, under pretext of redressing grievances and reforming
Church and State, have made most audacious and iniqui-
tous resolves, tending to the subversion of all order and
good Government, and the total abolition of law and justice :

And whereas, in compliance with the aforesaid resolves,
many peaceable and well disposed persons, who have de-
clined joining in such illegal Associations, have been insulted,
persecuted, proscribed, and oppressed, and have suffered
all the cruelty and torture that brutal, cowardly rage could
devise ; and as, in obedience to the orders of such Con-
gresses and Committees, much private property has been
destroyed, the most daring piracies and robberies have
been perpetrated in the face of open day, and death and
destruction denounced against all who dare oppose their
lawless banditti :

And whereas the Pulpit and Press are become subser-
vient to the infernal schemes of these diabolical assemblies,
and are used as the great engines to destroy the peace and
tranquillity of this devoted Nation, and to plunge it into
all the horrours of rebellion and civil war ; to accomplish
which they daily teem with productions of the most in-
flammatory, seditious, treasonable nature; reflecting on,
and highly injurious to the characters and interests of indi-
vidual, and particular societies of men ; which individuals
and particular societies labour under great disadvantages,
through the want of mutual concert and intercourse with
each other :

And as the Navy and Army sent hither by His Majesty
for the support of the laws and preservation of the peace,
have been marked out as the peculiar objects of the ran-
cour and malignity of these reforming fanaticks ; and as
in their resolves they have publickly declared the officers
and men to be their enemies, and with that charity and
humanity which are peculiar to the holy men of Massachu-
setts, have endeavoured to deprive them of those necessa-
ries and conveniences of life, which, among savages, are
not denied to the brute creation, namely, straw to lie down
on, and sheds to shelter them from the rigour of a most in-
clement season ; and with their usual zeal for the propaga-
tion of irreligion and immorality, have spared neither pains
nor expense to debauch the soldiers from their duty and
allegiance, to persuade them to be guilty of perjury, trea-
son, and rebellion ; and as a few, by artifice and deceit,
have been prevailed on to desert the service of their King
and Country, some of whom have suffered the punishment
due to so heinous a crime, and others have been condemned
by their seducers to slavery, and sentenced to pass the
remainder of their miserable days at hard labour in the
mines :

As these illegal Congresses and Committees still con-
tinue to meet, vote, and resolve ; and as His Majesty's land
and sea forces here assembled, are particularly affected by
these meetings, it is therefore, with all deference, submitted
to the Officers, whether, from the foregoing considerations,
they should not immediately form a Congress, that, by
uniting their counsels and arms, they may both act with
greater force, and with more effect ; and the appearance of
a confederacy may render them no less respectable among
the people than formidable to the rebels :

It is therefore humbly proposed by the Moderator and
Selectmen, that a Military Congress be immediately formed,
under the name of A Grand Congress of Control ; that this
Congress have a President, who shall be styled Comptrol-
ler General ; a Secretary ; three Delegates from each Re-
giment ; three from the Navy, and one from the Engi-
neers.

That as many as can conveniently meet, do assemble on
every Monday and Thursday, immediately after the pub-
lication of the Boston Gazette and the Spy, to take cogni-
zance of whatever may relate to them in these Papers ;
and also of the proceedings of the Provincial Congress now
sitting at Concord.

That on these days they hear all complaints against Con-
gresses, Committees, Town Meetings, Selectmen, Printers,
Watchmen, and mob of the Town of Boston.

That they take cognizance of any injury, insult, or in-
dignity, that may be offered by any man or body of men,
to their Country, their King, their profession, their Gen-
eral, their men, or themselves; and where legal process
cannot be obtained, that a summary mode of redress be
adopted and put into execution.

That they appoint such inferiour Committees as shall to
them appear expedient.

That they keep a faithful register of the occurrences of
the times, and pursue every other measure which, in their
united wisdom, they shall judge effectual, to obviate the
insidious schemes of a most artful, indefatigable, unprinci-
pled, and ungenerous enemy.

FOR THE MASSACHUSETTS GAZETTE.

Boston, April G, 1775.
My ivorthy Friends and Fellow- Countrymen :

Experience has ever been found to be the best guide of
human conduct ; to profit from our past errours, is at once to
discharge our duty and consult our truest interest. When
we review our past behaviour, in any stage or station of life,
how many instances may we find, wherein we should have
acted a very different part if we had been aware of the
consequences which have ensued ; and which, should we
again be placed in the same situation, we should very ma-
terially correct? Hence have originated the wise maxims
and prudent and salutary observations of the sages of an-
tiquity, which, if more carefully attended to, would make
succeeding generations much more cautious and circum-
spect in their conduct than we, in fact, find to be the case.
But such is the unhappy frailty of the human mind, that
we are in general less attentive to the calls of reason and
prudence than the suggestions of passion, prejudice, and
vicious habits. We are apt suddenly to gratify our present
inclinations at the expense of our future happiness, and
incur the same misfortunes which we have seen a thousand
others do by a similar behaviour before.

If we look back upon the conduct of the Colonies for
some years past, we may find many critical junctures where
a prudent silence, or dutiful and rational remonstrance, would
have been attended with the most salutary consequences,
and put an end to that dispute which has since been so
unhappily protracted. With what extreme caution, then,
should we now proceed in our opposition, when our all de-
pends upon adopting a proper mode of behaviour. We
ought to be thoroughly convinced that we have truth, jus-
tice, reason, and equity for our foundation. How far these
are the ground of the complaints of the Congress, I am
endeavouring to discover to you, and beg your attention to
that article of grievance which was omitted in my last, from
motives of convenience, and is as follows: "Assemblies
have been frequently and injuriously dissolved, and Com-
merce burdened with many useless and oppressive restric-
tions."

In this article we have a striking instance of the consoli-
dated modesty, as well as wisdom of the Congress. As to
the first part, relative to the dissolution of Assemblies, they
might have recollected, that in some instances His Majesty,
whose undoubted prerogative it is, by express instructions,
had directed his Governours to dissolve the Assemblies,
(unless they would recede from some rash, imprudent, and
unjustifiable measures which they had adopted,) before they
had so modestly told him, by styling them injurious, that
he was not a judge of the propriety or justice of the steps
which he himself had directed. In other instances, the
Governours, of themselves, have dissolved Assemblies,
when their proceedings have been such as required it.
Here it is curious to observe the inimitable consistency and
uniformity of the conduct of some members of the Congress,
who, for some years past, as members of the General Assem-
bly, have been endeavouring to prove that the Governour
has the " sole power to prorogue, adjourn, and dissolve the
General Assembly," when and where he thinks fit; and
now, at the Congress, complain of it as injurious that he
has exercised this right, in instances where he himself
thought His Majesty's service required it. Such conduct
can be accounted for on no other principle than a disposi-
tion in the Congress to raise fears and create jealousies in
the people of a design to make them slaves, when, at the
same time, they themselves are convinced that they are
the mere suggestions of their own wicked arts and false
insinuations. " And Commerce burdened with many
useless and oppressive restrictions." This is still more
extraordinary. In all the disputes that have hitherto sub-
sisted, the right of Great Britain to regulate the Trade of
the Colonies was never till now contested ; and the ni

287

CORRESPONDENCE, PROCEEDINGS, &c, APRIL, 1775.

2So

sity ami justice of this is apparent, when we consider the
vast expense Great Britain is at in protecting the trade,
and that the Colonies might otherwise carry on a commerce
destructive to her interest, which she has an undoubted
right to prevent, upon every principle of justice and poli-
cy: by her strength, by her assistance, it is mat we now
enjoy this extensive Country, and have arrived to so great
a pitch of opulence and importance. How reasonable is
it, then, that we should be restrained from attempting any-
thing detrimental to her Trade and Commerce? These,
however, have been regulated with the strictest regard and
attention to the interests of the Colonies.

The inhabitants of Great Britain are not suffered to
raise any tobacco, and are obliged to pay large duties upon
what is imported, merely to benefit some of the Colonies,
whose sole subsistence depends upon it. They are re-
strained from buying indigo, which they might get much
cheaper at other markets, merely to encourage the Ameri-
can manufacture of that article. And though we have
been restrained from vending a number of the articles of
our produce to any but Great Britain, yet this has been
amply compensated by the bounties that have been paid
us upon their importation into that Kingdom. Large
bounties have been paid upon our limber, pitch, tar, rosin,
turpentine, hemp, indigo, pot and pearl ashes, &.c. ; the
Acts granting some of which have a preamble which
breathes the most benevolent regard to the interest and
happiness of the Colonies ; it is thus expressed : " Where-
as, Her Majesty's Colonies and Plantations in America
were at first settled, and are still maintained and protected
at a great expense of the treasure of this Kingdom, with
a design to render them as useful as may be to England,
and the labour and industry of the people there, profitable
to themselves ; and to enable them to make due and suffi-
cient returns in the course of their trade," &c. Certainly
nothing appears useless and oppressive in these instances ;
and the more we examine it, the more groundless this
complaint appears. It is couched in general terms, to pre-
vent the knowledge of the truth. It was supposed the
veracity of the Congress would be implicitly relied on, and
that few would take the trouble of inquiring for themselves.
But 1 beseech you, my dear friends, exercise that reason,
those powers of judging which God has given you. The
Congress has been guilty of gross prevarication and false
assertions, which I am endeavouring to convince you of;
and however severe these charges may seem, I shall think
the truth of my assertions a sufficient apology for every
thing I advance.

The next complaint which has not yet been considered,
is this: "Both Houses of Parliament have resolved that
the Colonists may be tried in England for offences alleged
to have been committed in America, by virtue of a Statute
passed in the thirty-fifth year of Henry the Eighth, and in
consequence thereof attempts have been made to enforce
the Statute." The statute here referred to, either extended
to America, or it did not ; if it did extend here, how comes
it to pass that we have never complained of it before ?
How could our forefathers, from the first settlement of the
Country, tamely submit to such a galling yoke, and insen-
sibly remain in such a state of slavery ? Unhappy mortals !
thus to continue for a hundred and fifty years in actual
submission to tyranny and arbitrary power, and never once
be aware of their danger; never perceive that their liber-
ties were infringed ; never feel so enormous a grievance.
Surely our veneration for their characters, as the sons of
freedom, must be greatly lessened, when we reflect upon
this dastardly instance of their supine negligence and un-
manly silence. Is it possible they could enjoy the conve-
niences, comforts, and luxuries of life, with which in later
times they have been surrounded, and not be tormented
with the goading reflection of their submission to this infa-
mous statute of Henry the Eighth, that tyrant of tyrants,
and scourge to his subjects? Unfeeling wretches! But,
thank Heaven, we, their wiser offspring, have found it out,
and are determined no longer to acquiesce in our submis-
sion; but through fear of misfortunes yet unfelt, will sacri-
fice our peace, our happiness, and every social blessing,
and involve ourselves in the most distressing calamines,
rather than by our sileDce countenance the bare existence
of such an authority, though we never have, and never ex-
pect to experience its exertion. Who would not, for the

uncertainty of future oppression, relinquish the certain en-
joyment of present happiness and peace: Who would not,
for the pleasure of opposing lawful authority, submit to the
usurpation of lawless Congresses and Committee-men?
One drop of American blood, if it (lows in the veins of
any one to whom these questions are proposed, must at
once dictate the answer.

But to be serious. — If this Act did extend to America,
could the resolutions of the two Houses of Parliament add
to its baneful influence? Could that which has ever been
a law, be rendered more so, by repeated declaration of but
two branches of the Legislature ? Certainly not. But if
it did not extend here, is not the declaration of the Lords
and Commons that it did, equivalent to making a new sta-
tute; and can they alone do this, without the assent of the
third branch of the Legislature? Can, therefore, such
resolves be considered in any other light, than a declara-
tion of the general sense of the Nation ? Can they be
supposed to add any authority to the statute referred to,
which it had not before ? Is not the exposition of Acts of
Parliament, the proper department of the Executive Courts
of Justice? Can, therefore, any thing short of a new act
of Parliament, which has the sanction of the three branches
of the Legislature, extend a former Act beyond the mean-
ing and construction it may lawfully bear? Will not the
Judges of the Courts of Law expound it, as it stands by
itself, abstracted from any resolves of separate branches of
the Legislature? Have they not done this? Was it not
first proposed to the Judges of England for their opinion,
which was afterwards confirmed tin terrorem merely, by the
resolves of the two Houses of Parliament ? And if this is
the grievance, I admit it to be true that the Judges of Eng-
land have determined that it does extend here ; and it
is equally true that they are the proper judges of this mat-
ter, and should, doubtless, have decided it upon the princi-
ples of Law and the Constitution ; and however disagree-
able the decision may be to the Congress, it certainly is
not a matter of grievance, as hereby they have not made
any new law, but explained one of a date more ancient than
the settlement of this Country, and under the authority of
which we have hitherto lived quiet and peaceable lives,
without suffering any inconvenience or oppression. And
here I cannot but take notice of the vague, indeterminate
expression made use of, " that the Colonists may be tried
in England for offences alleged to have been committed
in America." As 1 have before observed, this Petition,
so called, could be intended only for the publick newspa-
pers here, and therefore the design was chiefly to alarm the
fears of the populace. Accordingly they are left in this
instance to conjecture whatever their heated imaginations
may suggest, and to suppose that the most trivial of offences
are here guarded against; whereas, if they were informed
that it was high treason, the highest crime known in the
law, and indeed the most flagitious in its nature and conse-
quences, that can be committed in any State, the impor-
tance and necessity of the case would apologize for the
extraordinary remedy provided, and silence every objec-
tion. But the Congress go on confidently to assert, that
"in consequence thereof, attempts have been made to en-
force that statute." What is intended by this, I am utterly
at a loss to conceive. I neither know nor have ever heard
of any instance of this kind, though 1 have been pretty in-
dustrious in my inquiries ; and 1 believe I may justly and
truly aver, that no such attempt has ever been made — sure
I am, that there has been none in this Province ; and I will
candidly confess my errour, and acknowledge my obliga-
tions to any one, who can inform me of an instance in any
other. Why, then, we should be alarmed with an idea of
r, where there is none ; why we should be told of
attempts which have never been made, of grievances never
felt, and of designs to injure us never conceived, is not
easily accounted for upon the principles of justice, truth,
equity, or a regard for the interest and happiness of the
Colonies, or the just and legal authority of the Parent State.

1 will now consider the next complaint, which is, "A
Statute was passed in the twelfth year of your Majesty's
reign, directing that persons charged with committing any
offence therein described, in any place out of the Realm,
may be indicted and tried for the same in any Shire or
County within the Realm, whereby inhabitants of these
Colonies may, in sundry cases, by that Statute made capi-

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290

tal, be deprived of a trial by their peers of the vicinage."
After premising that this statute is intended principally
to prevent setting fire to His Majesty's Dock- Yards, Ships,
and Naval Stores, I would beg leave to observe, that by
Commerce and Trade alone Great Britain has arrived to
such a pitch of opulence and splendour, as has scarce been
equalled, never surpassed, by any Nation on the globe. By
the undisputed sovereignty of the Sea, which she has ever
maintained, she has been able to hold the first rank, and
preserve the balance of power among all the Kingdoms,
States, and Empires in the world. Should her naval pow-
er be considerably lessened or destroyed, it would be pro-
ductive of the most ruinous consequences, and must finally
terminate in the destruction of the British Nation. The
principal States in Europe envy, and are striving to out-
rival her in this boasted superiority ; and should they ever
be able to effect this point, Britain would soon become a
tributary State to some potent victor. It is by her power-
ful fleet, that this renowned Island, comparatively small,
has arisen to be the first Kingdom on earth for wealth and
power; inexhaustible sources of opulence and riches have
been discovered and improved by her commercial inter-
course with the different Nations and Countries in the
world ; and this Trade is continued, secured, and protect-
ed merely by her much-envied but hitherto unrivalled
Navy. Of how much importance it is, then, that the most
effectual precautions should be used to support this valu-
able, useful, and necessary pillar of her greatness ! To
injure or impair this, is to strike at the very foundation of
the Kingdom and vitals of the State. To attempt to destroy
this bulwark of her power, would indicate an inclination to
reduce Great Britain to a state of poverty and slavery.
Who, then, can complain that the laws made to punish so
heinous an offence should be severe, and attended with
penalties proportionate to the greatness of the crime ? Who
would not be willing to submit to a provision in this in-
stance, which in most others might be reasonably com-
plained of? Sensible of the necessity and justice of it, the
inhabitants of the other parts of the Dominions, who are
equally affected by it with us, willingly and cheerfully ac-
quiesce in their submission to this statute ; and why we
alone should complain, when every part of the Dominion
ii in the same predicament, is a little unaccountable. By
this statute it is enacted, that whoever shall offend against
it out of the Realm, may be indicted and tried in any
County within the Realm that His Majesty shall appoint.
Thus our fellow-subjects in Ireland, the West-Indies, and
wherever else dispersed, are equally comprehended in this
Act ; so that we have no reason to suppose, as is suggested
by the Congress, that it was passed in consequence of a
plan adopted by the Ministry to enslave the Colonies. But
the intention is best collected from the Act itself, which
informs us that it was made because the safety of the Dock-
Yards, Ships, &tc, is of great importance to the welfare
and security of the Kingdom ; and he who can basely at-
tempt to infringe these, amply deserves to be tried under
the disadvantages, if they can be called such, prescribed
by this Act. Phileirene.

TO THE INHABITANTS OF THE MASSACHUSETTS-BAY.
NO. VIII.

Boston, April G, 1775.

My Friends and Fellow- Countrymen :

We are now verging towards a close of our lucubrations
upon the right of Parliament. I blush upon asking your fur-
ther attention to this matter, having already trespassed long
on your patience. The importance of the subject, and a
show of argument in the two papers succeeding the one con-
sidered in our last, must be my apology. Having examined
this question to its foundation, in a course of papers that
have been laid before the publick ; having compared it with
every principle of law, of justice, and of social connexions,
which would not disgrace the understanding of a Hotten-
tot; having traced its decision in our favour, up to a con-
nexion with our most important duty, and the precepts of
Heaven; it remains only that we obviate the residue of
our writer's half-made arguments upon this subject, by
showing their ^conclusiveness or remoteness from the
point. Such matters as fall within the principles and rea-

Fouhth Series. — Vol. n. 19

sonings established and applied on former occasions, we may
pass by, as having been fairly and fully answered. It is
unnecessary in this stage of the controversy to offer any
thing in affirmance of our claim, however the observations
and assertions of our antagonist may provoke us to it ; for
this, I must refer you to our past Numbers. Many other
things might be added, so fertile and clear is the subject,
the which, if they should all be written, I suppose the world
itself would not contain the books that would be written.

The Paper of January 16th, begins with the most flagrant
misrepresentation of facts, from which we may form some
shrewd conjectures of its progress and end. " Had a per-
son, some fifteen years ago, undertaken to prove that the
Colonies were annexed to the Realm, were a part of the
British Empire or Dominion, and as such subject to the
authority of the British Parliament, he would have acted
as ridiculous a part as to have undertaken to prove a self-
evident proposition. Had any person denied it, he would
have been called a fool or a madman." If this be true,
James the First, Charles the First, and Charles the Second
were mad Kings, as we have shown from good authority;
our famed progenitors madmen ; our Charters the off-
spring of madness ; the English Laws and the British
Constitution the essence of madness; and this ridiculous
madness has been handed down, by some mysterious fatali-
ty, from generation to generation to the present day,
excepting, in a few instances, where persons basking in the
sunshine of Court favours, have had their brains so heated
and volatilized by the piercing rays of honour and profit,
as to enable them to evaporate the general contagion. Our
sane disputant may stand high in this catalogue. By
what specificks such cures are effected is no longer matter
of curious speculation. This brings to my mind the story
of a prodigal froward child, who, madly attempting to hang
himself in his father's presence, was cured of his lunacy by
a sum of money, which disease would never return but
with an empty purse.

At this wise period individuals and bodies of men deny
it, notwithstanding in doing it they subvert the fundamen-
tals of Government, deprive us of British liberties, and
build up absolute monarchy in the Colonies. We proved
in our last that the admission of this authority is, in every
point of view, absolutely inconsistent with the fundamentals
of Government, British rights, English liberties, or the
security of life, liberty, and property, which we are entitled
to as men. And thus it erects an absolute Government in
the Colonies as repugnant to every idea of freedom as life
and death, blessing and cursing, are opposite to each other.

" Our Charters," says our hypothetical reasoner, " sup-
pose regal authority in the grantor; if that authority be
derived from the British Crown, it presupposes this Ter-
ritory to have been a part of the British Dominions, and
as such subject to the imperial Sovereign." If he means
any thing to the purpose by these (perhaps designedly)
inaccurate expressions and obscure reasoning, it must be
this, viz : Our Charters suppose the right and property of
the Colonies, or the American Territory, to be in the King,
as grantor ; and if this right and property be derived to him
from the English Crown, or British, if he pleases, it pre-
supposes the Colonies to have been a part of the British
Dominions. To take him upon his own argument : Our
Charters suppose nothing in the grantor, but what he has
absolutely granted away, (excepting the reservations to
himself,) which the Charters suppose he had good right to
do. And his deriving this right or property from the Eng-
lish Crown, presupposes nothing to have belonged to the
English Dominions, and subject to the imperial Sovereign,
but what, being taken away and vested in the King, was
conveyed over to the grantees, which proves, even upon
his own principles, that we are not now a part of the Bri-
tish State, nor subject to its supreme authority. This is
argumentum ad hominem.

Let us examine it upon its true principles. The Char-
ters, as we have elsewhere observed, from their subject
matter and the reality of things, can only operate as the
evidence of a compact between an English King and the
American subjects ; their running in the style of a grant is
mere matter of form, and not of substance. Nor do they
suppose the Territory granted to be the right and property
of the King as grantor, any more than where Magna

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!■).

292

Vharta gives and grants to tlic people of England their
rights, sua jura, and their liberties, libcrtatis suas, all which
the people had a right to, and possessed previous to and
independent of this Charter, proves that these rights and
liberties were mere emanations from the royal grantor, or
new blessings given to the subject as matters of bounty and
grace, and not, rather, the royal assurance that those rights
which adhered to them as men, and their Constitution
confirmed to them as Englishmen, should not be invaded.
Admitting that our Charters did suppose the right and pro-
perty of the Colonies in the grantor, suppositions are only
admissible where facts cannot be ascertained ; they are al-
ways controlled and superseded by evidence. Massachu-
setlensis knows. Great Britain knows, common sense
teaches, history confirms, and we have already proved, that
the grantor had no right, title, or possession here in Ame-
rica, excepting what was derived from a visit made to these
shores by some British mariners, when they were the pos-
sessed and rightful property of twenty other Nations ; or
what is still more ridiculous, if possible, from a Popish pre-
tended right in Christians to take away the property, the
dwellings, the liberties, and the lives of heathens. So
that all this famous train of reasoning, going upon a false,
mistaken, and refuted supposition of an antecedent right in
the King, dwindles into sound and shadow ; for the founda-
tion being removed, the superstructure, however artificial
and superb, must tumble to the ground. It is peculiarly
characteristical of our embarrassed writer, to beg the ques-
tion. I wish for once he would come to the point. Has
he proved, excepting by arguments that evince directly the
contrary, that before the reception of our Charters the
Colonies were a part of the British Empire, or that these
Charters united them to the British Realm ? Does not
his confused Babel fabrick, which he has been so long
building, stand entirely on this basis? I call upon him to
prop it up, if he has it in his power, or frankly confess the
imposition. Let him name the time when, point out the
manner how, or the means by which the Colonies were
united to the Realm of England; or let him be for ever
silent concerning a right in Parliament to give law in all
cases to more than three millions of unrepresented and mis-
represented Americans. I dare say this is a task that he,
nor any other man in his senses, will never seriously at-
tempt. Every history, every record, every scrap of paper
to be found upon the subject, evinces the contrary. It may
not be amiss to recite a few passages from a historian of
great fame and undoubted credit. " When the Europeans
first visited this Country, they found it inhabited by twenty
different Nations, or Tribes, independent of each other,
and commanded by their respective chiefs. Of these Na-
tions the most powerful was the Massachusetts, situate on
or near the harbour of Boston. King James the First, by
letters patent, dated April 10, 1606, erected two Compa-
nies, granting to them all the Northeast Coast of America,
which was then called Virginia. One of the Companies
was called Plymouth Company, who, for some time, traded
only with the natives of North Virginia, or now New-
England, for furs, and fished upon their Coast." Did this
grant to the Company suppose this Territory to be in the
grantor, and presuppose it a part of the British Empire?
Just as much as if a Provincial Governour should erect
Companies, and grant them large tracts of the new disco-
vered world in the South Seas belonging to the Otaheiis,
would suppose a right in the Governour to the land of the
Natives, and presuppose it a part of the Province he gov-
erned : a species of reasoning that the veriest tyro which
ever passed the hands of a common pedagogue might have
confuted.

About the year 1619 the Dissenters in England, to avoid
religious persecution, having purchased the Plymouth Pa-
tent of the Company, (to prevent pretensions for moles-
tation,) and obtaining another from King James of all New-
England, a hundred and fifty men embarked on board of
a Ship which arrived at Cape Cod in New- En gland, from
Plymouth, the 6th of September, 1620, where "they built a
Town and called it by the name of New-Plymouth, and
elected John Carver their first Governour. The Indians,
continues the same historian, were at this time too much
engaged in wars among themselves to give these strangers
any disturbance ; and Massassoit, Prince of the Massa-

chusett Nation, learning what a powerful people the English
were, made Governour Carver a visit the following spring,
and entered into an alliance offensive and defensive with
the English. This Prince also consented to acknowledge
the King of England his Sovereign, and made cession of
pari of his Country to the new Planters. Several other
Sachems did the same, following his example, and desiied
the protection of the English against their enemies, pro-
fessing themselves subjects to King James. Did the ces-
sion of this land to the English unite it to the British
Empire ? Did the Mother State enlarge and contract her-
self in proportion as our ancestors increased or diminished
their possessions in America 1 Did the natives subject
themselves and their lands to the operation of any law that
might pass the British Parliament, by acknowledging them-
selves the subjects of King James 1 Or would a Charter
from His Britannick Majesty, granting them what was
their own before, have settled the matter? What nonsen-
sical conclusions, what complicated absurdities, will tory-
istical reasonings run us into.

In 1664 King Charles II. granted New-York, the Jer-
seys, and Pennsylvania to his brother, the Duke of York ;
the Duke granted over Pennsylvania to Sir William Penn,
who received an additional grant from the same King in
1680. Penn, says the historian, notwithstanding the
grants made him by the Crown and the Duke of York,
did not esteem himself the real proprietor of the lands
until he had given the bidians a valuable consideration for
their Country. He assembled, therefore, their Sachems
or Princes, and purchased countries of a very large extent
of them at a moderate price, which he paid to the entire
satisfaction of the natives. This flourishing Colony, when-
ever it wants to extend its settlements, it purchases new
lands of the Sachems, and not from the Crown of
England. What suppositions and presuppositions would
our surreptitious land grantors raise from the above history ?
Does it prove the right in the Crown ? Does it establish
the desiderata of the Tories ?

" If that authority was vested in the person of the King
in a different capacity, then the British Constitution and
Laws are out of the question, and the King must be abso-
lute as to us, as his prerogatives have never been limited."
To which we answer, that our Charter, and that alone,
brings the English Constitution and Laws into view, and
makes them necessary questions, let the King's authority
and capacity be as they may. It refers us to those as to
a standard (as it might as well have done to any other Con-
stitution and code of laws) to reduce to a certainty the
rights and privileges we were entitled to by our Charter;
as also to point out and circumscribe the prerogatives of
the Crown. So that these prerogatives are as much limited
and confined in the Colonies as they are in England.

" Charter Governments must severally revert to abso-
lute monarchy, as their Charters may happen to be for-
feited by the grantees not fulfilling the conditions of them."
This goes entirely upon the supposition that the King was
the original owner and proprietor of the premises. This
is begging the question ; for we have shown, over and over,
that it is a baseless hypothesis, framed by court-undertakers
to support their darling plan ; thus obscuring truth, they
attempt to clothe the minds of their readers with darkness,
and feed them with errour. It is not only void of proof,
but, what is worse, in direct opposition to irrefragable argu-
ments, and the stubborn evidence of facts. If the condi-
tions on which the Charter was made are broken by the
one party or the other, (the grantees or the grantor,) the only
possible conclusion from thence is, that the compact is dis-
solved, and both set at large.

Our heroick writer, imagining that he had not quite fright-
ened away our senses, or reasoned us out of our rights and
liberties, attempts to smile away both. " It is curious, in-
deed," says he, with an air of ridicule, " to trace the denial
and oppugnation to the supreme authority of the State.
When the Stamp Act was made, the authority of Parlia-
ment to impose internal taxes was denied, but their right
to impose external ones, or, in other words, to lay duties
upon Goods and Merchandise was admitted. When the
Act was made imposing duties on Tea, &.c, a new dis-
tinction was set up, that the Parliament had a right to lay
duties upon Merchandise for the purpose of regulating

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294

Trade, but not for the purpose of raising a Revenue. That
is, the Parliament had good right and lawful authority to
lay the former duty of a shilling on the pound, but had
none to lay the present duty of three pence." If our
writer seriously believes this to be a fair representation of
the matter, he is certainly to be pitied, instead of being
reasoned with. The distinction set up is important, it is
substantial, it is this, that the British Parliament may have
good right and lawful authority to make a law to operate
in England within the jurisdiction of Parliament, where the
people are represented, for to lay a duty of one shilling,
or nineteen shillings, if you please, on the pound, for the
purpose of raising a revenue ; and yet have no authority or
right to make a law to operate within the Colonies beyond
the jurisdiction of Parliament, where the people are not
represented, for to lay a duty of three pence, or even the
infinitissimum of a farthing, for the same purpose. Ad-
mitting that some of the Whigs set up different though
consistent distinctions at different times, or rather, express-
ed the same distinction by different words, does it affect
the merits of the controversy ? Does it not rather prove
that the Stamp Act, which ushered in the present ruinous
system of politicks, was such a novelty in Colony admin-
istration, and the principle it dragged after it such a mon-
ster in an English Constitution, as to render a description
of it difficult by terms and distinctions?

Had we time for amusement, and to trace the Tories iu
the route they have taken, we could give such a curious
history of their distinctions, contradictions, explanations,
and declarations, in nurturing of this despicable brat of
ministerial influence, if not in the unnatural part they
acted as midwives, to give it birth, as would grace the
Memoirs of Don Quixotte, or the most fantastick Knight-
errant that ever lived. When the Tea Act, with others,
passed, no American was found hardy enough openly to
assert a right in Parliament to tax the unrepresented in-
habitants of the Colonies ; this was reserved as an exploit
for our undaunted writer. At that time the Tories, or
rather the friends to Government, as they call themselves,
to save appearance, conjured up from their own noddles
the ideas of a virtual representation ; we heard much about
the Americans being virtually represented in the British
Parliament. This for awhile was trumpeted forth by
every creature, or spawn of a creature, in the toryistical
choir. They hugged the unmeaning invention until, by its
becoming familiar, it grew contemptible ; at last with shame
they gave it up. However, it was succeeded by another
distinction from the same fountain (a Tory's fertile brain)
equally ridiculous. The duty upon Tea was no tax. It
was for the purpose of regulating trade. Nothing was a
tax that could possibly be eluded, as this might by not
consuming the dutied article. This was not long matter
of dispute. The Ministry had christened their own bant-
ling, they called it a tax ; its sponsors, or God-fathers in
America, rather than quarrel with their best friends, con-
sented, at length, to call it by its proper name. The cur-
tain is still kept drawn ; and the farce continues. It is next
admitted to be a tax, and that Parliament had no right to
impose it. But yet it was our duty to submit to it cheer-
fully, acknowledge the right of laying it, and in that way get
it removed. Having worried through all this series of con-
tradictions, with much more equally curious, to no purpose ;
being chagrined with disappointment, and provoked at their
own folly and stupidity, their last resort is to speak out,
and declare us slaves. This Massachuseltensis was most
heroically resolved upon. He accordingly asserts that Par-
liament has a right to tax us ; a right to make laws binding
upon us in all cases whatsoever ; and that opposition to such
laws would be treason and rebellion. Such has been the
vile employment, the sordid drudgery of those engaged in
support of Court measures, though no person has reason
to grudge them their places and pensions, either in enjoy-
ment or expectancy, as compensations for their service.
Certainly those inferiour animals that are scattered up and
down through the Country, those jackals, which, like so
many satellites, have been revolving round some military
Officer or new made Justice, in expectation of titles, of
feathers, are much to be pitied. Poor things ! could their
leaders once get seated securely in the chair of greatness and
absolute power, this insignificant tribe of fawners, seekers,
and expectants, would be forever dismissed from their ser-

vice; and their greatest misfortune, perhaps, would be, that
they were once acquainted. To such, it is the advice of
a friend immediately to throw off the infatuation, put on
the man, and show the world they are not to be duped.

" It is of the last importance," says Massachuscttensis,
" to settle this point, that is, the right of Parliament ; it will
(continues he) serve as a true test, certain criterion, and in-
variable standard, to distinguish the friends from the ene-
mies of our Country, patriotism from sedition, loyalty from
rebellion." 1 heartily subscribe to the justice of this ob-
servation, but commisserate the unhappy situation of its
author, if the friends and enemies of our Country should
be distinguished by this standard of his own erecting, which,
to do him justice, is the standard of truth. Weighed in
such an equitable and discriminating balance, we should
find all those fair pages of calumny which our author has
published to the world respecting the conduct of the Whigs,
converted into the sweetest encomiums ; and Massachu-
seltensis would be but another name for treason ; the friends
to Government, order, and the laws, in the modern prosti-
tuted application of the words, and the advocates for in-
justice, oppression, tyranny, and rebellion, would become
synonymous terms.

After making some observations, which are nothing to
the purpose, unless the Colonies are annexed to the Realm,
which is not the case, nor ever will be ; and if they were,
it would not follow, if Guernsey and Jersey are enslaved,
that the Americans must be so too ; a clause from our
first Charter, too long to be repeated, respecting incorpora-
tion, is recited by our author, upon which he gravely asks
this simple question, " Whether it looks like a distinct or
independent State ?" We may fully answer him by another
question equally simple, viz : Is there a single word in it
that looks like uniting us to the British Empire, or sub-
jecting us to the authority of Parliament ? If it has not
this look, it does not look to the point ; for it is demonstra-
tion, as there was a time when the Colonies were disunited
from the Realm and the supreme authority of the Parent
State, that they are so now, unless there is evidence of a
subsequent connexion. It is to be wished that those who
keep eternally harping upon our being annexed to the Bri-
tish Realm, would point out the process that united us.
There is none in nature. I challenge them to produce
any.

The two next adduced paragraphs from our first Charter,
we have examined in our third and fourth numbers, and
have shown the first exactly to correspond with the rights
we contend for, and the latter to be absolutely inconsistent
with, and repugnant to, every principle and idea of our
being a part of the British Empire, and subject to its
Sovereign power. It is therefore unnecessary to take them
up in this place.

The last-recited clause from this Charter we have also
considered ; the substance of which is, that all and every
of the subjects of the King of England, his heirs and suc-
cessors, who should go to and inhabit in the Massachusetts
Colony, and all their children born in the said Colony, or
on the Seas, should have and enjoy all the liberties and
immunities of free and natural born subjects within any of
the Dominions of the King, his heirs and successors, to all
intents and purposes whatsoever, as if they were, and every
of them, born within the Realm.

" It is upon this clause, or a similar one in the Charter
of William and Mary, that our patriots have built up the
stupendous fahrick of American independence." Be it so:
the foundation, were there no other, would sustain the
building ; it is impossible to undermine it or explain it
away.

" I have already," says our writer, " shewn that the sup-
position of our being exempted from the authority of Par-
liament, is pregnant with the grossest absurdities." No
mortal, excepting himself, has ever been able to see those
absurdities. We have seen what such empty pretensions
amounted to in a past paper, and to whom the absurdities
were imputable. " Let us now," says he, "consider this
clause in connexion with other parts of the Charter."
Here we are led to expect some important reasoning ; how-
ever, a recital of his argument is its best confutation.
" If," savs he, " we suppose this clause to exempt us from
the authority of Parliament, we must throw away all the
rest of the Charter, for every other part indicates the con-

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296

trary, as plain as words can do." This is considering the
clause in connexion with other parts. There is no end in
contradicting the mere assertions of one who lets his pen
run so freely. Read the Charter, and see if any part in-
dicates the contrary, unless profound silence upon the sub-
ject is taken for such an indication.

" What is still worse, this clause becomes felo de se, and
destroys itself; for if we are not annexed to the Realm
we are aliens, and no Charter, grant, or other act of the
Crown can naturalize us, or entitle us to the liberties and
immunities of Englishmen." This is begging the question ;
it goes upon the old Jacobitish supposition deteriorated. It
supposes that within the Realm the subject holds all his
rights and liberties of the King, as the original possessor;
and that persons out of the Realm, in a state of nature,
possess no rights and liberties as men. In short, it sup-
poses Great Britain to be the grand and only store-house
of freedom, the dispenser of civil blessings, and that no part
of the wide world can be entitled to any liberties or immu-
nities, but what she, of her special grace and mere bounty,
is pleased to grant them ; whereas the truth is, we were
entitled to all the rights of Englishmen, independent of any
Charters or Realms under Heaven ; and surely we are not
the less so for having them confirmed by compact.

We shall waive what might be offered respecting
aliens' allegiance to the King, and the relation that Wales,
Jersey, Guernsey, and Ireland, stand in to the Realm of
England, as they do not affect the solution of our present
question.

More distortions, windings, and twislings, were never
crowded into so small a compass as in the paragraph we
are now considering. The following is diverting enough :
" If a person born in England removes to Ireland, Jersey,
or Guernsey, and settles there, he is then no longer repre-
sented in the British Parliament, but he and his posterity
are, and will ever be, subject to its authority. So that the
inhabitants of the American Colonies do, in fact, enjoy all
the liberties and immunities of natural born subjects. We
are entitled to no greater privileges than those who are
born within the Realm ; and they can enjoy no other than
we do when they reside out of it. Thus it is evident that
this clause amounts to no more than the Royal assurance
that we are a part of the British Empire, and natural born
subjects, and as such bound to obey the supreme power of
the State." Such a concatenation of ideas were never
jumbled up together before. The clause grants to all per-
sons who were born within the Realm, and should come
and inhabit in this Province from time to time, as well as
to all their children born on the seas, or in this Colony, all
the liberties and immunities of free natural born subjects
within any of the King's Dominions, to all intents and pur-
poses whatsoever, as if they were born within the Realm
of England. The language of this clause, then, according
to our mysterious interpreter, to all those who come from
England here, would be this, viz: You who are born with-
in the Realm of England, and shall go and inhabit in the
Massachusetts Colony, shall have and enjoy all the liber-
ties and immunities that those have and enjoy who are
born within the Realm of England, and shall go and in-
habit in America. As great a solecism as ever entered the
head of man. If the accidental liberties that those per-
sons enjoy who are only born within the Realm, and re-
move to foreign parts, are to measure and point out ours,
how shall we ever know them ? Is Ireland, Guernsey, the
East and West-Indies, or Turkey, to decide the question
and define the rights of all America 1 for those born in
England have gone to, and enjoy different liberties in all
these places; and, according to our logician, if the Ameri-
cans enjoy as much liberty as those who were born in Eng-
land enjoy in any of those Dominions, even if it be in Tur-
key, we are entitled to no more.

This clause is so far from being the Royal assurance
that we are a part of the British Empire, and as such sub-
ject to its supreme authority, that it is directly the contrary.
Its meaning undeniably is, notwithstanding the violence of-
fered it by the Tories, who are pierced to their very vitals
by its force, that we should enjoy all the privileges and
immunities that the inhabitants of Great Britain are enti-
tled to. What some of these were, we saw in our last
number. It can have no other meaning but this, which
will support that stupendous fabrick of American indepen-

dence which we have possessed and practised upon for a
century and a half, and which our patriots arc struggling to
preserve against the storms, the sackings and sappings of
the Tories.

Whoever reads the Charter, continues he, will meet
with irresistible evidence that our being within the jurisdic-
tion of Parliament were the very tenures by which they
held their estates. It is astonishing that any man will give
himself such liberties. Whoever reads the Charter with
an expectation of finding evidence of this, or any thing of
the kind, will most certainly find himself egregiously dis-
appointed. There is nothing from beginning to end that
looks any more like it than what may be found in the As-
sembly's Catechism, or the Pilgrim's Progress.

From the County of Hampshire.

ALEXANDER ELMSLY, AGENT OF THE HOUSE OF ASSEMBLY
OF NORTH-CAROLINA, TO SAMUEL JOHNSTON.

London, April 7, 1775.

Dear Sir : Yours by Captain Scott came to hand in
due season, as did the money for Mr. Barker, which is at
his credit. Your bill £100, order Mr. Ferrear, was this
day paid.

Your politics are past my expectations, and out of my
reach. I thought incorporating you would not only have
remedied the disorder, but have given additional vigour to
the Constitution ; but, excepting our friend Mr. Barker,
nobody either here or there is of the same opinion ; there-
fore, I shall suppose, for the present, that he and I are mis-
taken, and wait with resignation the event of the measures
adopted on both sides of the water.

On our side they are as follows : —

imo. The House of Commons have voted by resolve,
that if you will tax yourselves for the purpose of support-
ing your own establishments, and also contribute a certain
sum for the general safety, the amount of which to be satis-
factory to the King and Parliament, and to be at their dis-
posal, then the Parliament will desist from laying any further
taxes for the present. This, they say, is holding out to you
the olive branch ; I say it is a dirty, disgracing, degrading
expedient, compared to mine ; but it is so much akin to a
similar one proposed in the House of Lords by Lord Chat-
ham, and approved of by Franklin and the other Americans
here, that 1 must suppose myself again mistaken.

2Jo- A bill has received the Royal assent for preventing
the four New-England Colonies from fishing, after the 25th
of June next ; and another has been read three times in the
House of Commons, for restraining the trade of all the as-
sociated Colonies to Great Britain and the British West-
Indies ; out of this restraint, however, New-York and
North- Carolina are excepted ; the former because their
Assembly did not recognise the new laws, the latter for
reasons not generally known ; they are, however, one or all
of the following: 1st. Mr. Barker and myself, instead of
the Petition you sent us, (which contained, besides strange
inaccuracies, indirect reflections on the Parliament, or the
Ministry at least,) drew up a Memorial in more decent
terms, which we left a rough draught of with Mr. Poxmall,
the Secretary, for his inspection, previous to its being pre-
sented to the Board. This was about the 10th of Febru-
ary ; in two or three days we called to know his sentiments
on it ; he told us he had perused it, approved of it, and
pressed us much and repeatedly to have it lodged as soon
as possible, which was done the next day. Two or three
days after, Lord North moved for the Restraining Bill in the
House of Commons, and North- Carolina was and still is
left out. The next reason is, we have as yet received no
account of your Assembly, or rather the Members of it,
having ratified the new laws, nor have you been charged
with any excesses in the execution of them. The last,
and perhaps the best reason is, Governour Tryon (who re-
turns to New-York immediately) is much your friend, and
I doubt not has exerted himself in your behalf accordingly.
Whether you will thank us for this distinction, or not ;
whether it will not be considered as opprobrious instead of
honourable; whether Mr. Bar leer and myself will be cen-
sured or not, as having been, in all probability, instrumental
in bringing it about, 1 do not pretend to say. But in our
defence, or rather in mine, for it was with much reluctance
he consented to suppress the Petition, you will take notice,

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298

that when your Memorial was presented, we had no idea
that such restraining bill was intended ; on the other hand,
should this exemption be received favourably, give us no
credit for it ; for, had it not been for a tenderness we had
for the reputation of your Assembly, as having been long
members of it, your Petition, exceptionable as it is, should
have been presented. I do not know whether you ever
perused it, but my objections to it were, first, that a memo-
rial from us was as good as it ; and next, that you generally
address the King as the people of New-England do each
other, in the third person ; for instance, you say, in more
places than one, " Your Majesty, in bis great goodness, in
his great wisdom," &tc, instead of "your goodness," &c. ;
this might have passed from a poor ignorant criminal, beg-
ging his life, but surely belter things would have been ex-
pected from your Assembly. Besides this objection, there
was another: You say you have been taught to expect
redress from the Throne alone, i. e. you expect none from
the Ministry or the Parliament. How far you are well
grounded, I do not know ; but as I well know that none of
these petitions ever reach the Throne but through the
hands of the Ministry, to whom they are left as an ordinary
piece of business, 1 thought, and I still think, it would have
been preposterous to have presented a petition, which,
amongst other things, sets forth that the petitioner, from
past experience, did not doubt of having his petition re-
jected. This objection, however, alone, would not have
had much weight, at least not enough to have prevented
our presenting the Petition ; but on account of both to-
gether, it was agreed to suppress it, and to substitute a Me-
morial in its room, and keep the whole a secret ; and I am
not sure whether Mr. Barker would not be dissatisfied if
he knew that this matter bad been communicated even to
you ; therefore pray say nothing about it. With respect to
the success of your Memorial, we can at present form no
judgment of it, but are told that by next packet the matter
will be settled ; and if no bad news arrives from Carolina
in the mean time, we hope it will be in part settled to your
satisfaction.

You ask Mr. Barker to let you know who it was that
first moved, here, against your Court laws. Neither he
nor I know certainly ; but when old Mr. McCul(oh, as your
agent, first received an account of your Court Bill miscar-
rying, on account of an instruction to your Governour
against attachments, he hinted that Lord Hillsborough, then
Secretary of State for America, and Lord Hertford, then
and now Lord Chamberlain, and both Members of the Privy
Council, and North-of-Ireland men, and friends and neigh-
bours of your Dobbi's, might probably, at their solicitation,
have been the means of sending out the instruction. You
know Nash had an attachment depending against their es-
tate; this is only conjecture, but I think it probable; be-
cause, had the measure originated amongst the merchants,
we certainly should have heard of it long ago ; as you say,
however, it is not of much consequence now, as the new
laws have taken place, whether the old ones are restored
or not.

Old Franklin is gone to Philadelphia, some people say
to second Lord North's plan of your taxing yourselves ;
but I know nothing of the matter.

There is an account received that the Transports are
sailed from Cork, and next week, the Generals Howe,
Burgoync, and Clinton, follow them from hence in a Man-
of-War ; some of these troops are destined for New- York,
and two companies, with a sloop, are to be sent to Georgia.
Should your Assemblies refuse to adopt Lord North's
plan, and our Parliament persevere, you will have another
new set of laws soon established. They say your seaports
are to be turned into garrison Towns, and the people of the
Country left at liberty to form any establishment they think
proper. Should this regulation take place, I hope you will
have no occasion to turn soldier. Your Governour, I sup-
pose, will take up his residence amongst the musquetoes at
Breacok, and you will be a Congress or Committee-man,
instead of a military man. I like neither character, but
hope you will never have occasion to take upon you the
latter especially.

Mis. Elmslij joins me in compliments and best wishes to
you and vours.

I am, dear sir, your affectionate friend and bumble ser-

vant,

ALEXANDER ElMSLY.

CHESTERFIELD COUNTY (VIRGINIA) C0MM1TTKE.

At a meeting of the Committee for Chesterfield County,
held on the 7th of April, 1775, the proceedings of the
Convention were read and unanimously approved of.

Resolved, That we will, as soon as possible, promote and
further the establishment of Manufactories for the making
of Linen, Cotton, and Woollen Cloth ; and that we will gi\ e
encouragement to such persons as shall excel in the prepa-
ration of materials necessary for carrying on such manufac-
tories ; and also that subscriptions be opened in this County
by the several members of this Committee, for raising a
fund to support such Manufactories as may be determined
on in consequence of the foregoing Resolution.

Mr. John Brown, of Norfolk, having, by his behaviour,
incurred the censure of the people of this Colony ;

Resolved, That we will not hereafter transact any busi-
ness, or have any connexion with the said John Broivn.

Captain Sampson, of the Ship Elizabeth, from Bristol,
having, by his conduct, incurred the general contempt and
resentment of the good people of this Colony ;

Resolved, That we will not hereafter have any inter-
course with the said Sampson, nor contribute to. or, as far
as in us lies, permit the loading of any Ship which he may
now or hereafter be concerned with ; and it is recommended
to the inhabitants of this County to adopt these Resolu-
tions.

Ordered, That these, and the Resolutions relative to the
Manufactories, be printed. Jerman Baker, Clerk.

ULSTER COUNTY (NEW-YORK) COMMITTEE.

Kingston, Ulster County, April 7, 1775.

At a meeting of the inhabitants of the Town of Kings-
ton, in Ulster County, a Committee of Observation was
chosen agreeable to, and for the purpose mentioned in the
Eleventh Article of the Association of the Continental Con-
gress, held at Philadelphia in September last.

The persons nominated and appointed for said Commit-
tee were, Oke Sudam, John Beekman, Johannes Perse,
Johannes Sleght, Hendrick Schoonmaker, Christian Fiero,
and Egbert Schoonmaker, who at their meeting the 6th
instant, chose Johannes Sleght for Chairman.

Information being then made to said Committee, that the
merchants and venders of East-India Tea had entered into
an association not to sell any East-India Tea, and that if
any person or persons should be guilty of selling or vend-
ing any of that commodity, that they should be published
in°the publick newspapers as enemies to the liberties and
privileges of American subjects ; which Articles were signed
by all the merchants and skippers who were possessed of
any East-India Tea, (Mr. Jacobus Low excepted,) who,
notwithstanding all the friendly admonitions and entreaties
to the contrary, declared he had, and would sell Tea. Upon
which information, this Committee resolved to send for Mr.
Low, thinking that time and mature deliberation, together
with their friendly advice, might be able to alter Mr. Low's
determination ; but all in vain : for he declared he was de-
termined to sell Tea as formerly he bad done, and abso-
lutely refused to comply with the Articles agreed to by the
other merchants and skippers in said Town.

We, therefore, in faithfulness to the trust reposed in us,
and agreeable to the recommendation of the Congress, do
publish, and he, the said Jacobus Low, is hereby published
as an enemy to the rights and liberties of America; and
we do hereby declare, that we will henceforth abstain from
(and recommend it to others to abstain from) all kind of
connections and commerce with him, until such time as a
change in his conduct shall induce us to alter our determi-
nation.

Signed by order of the Committee:

Johannes Sleght, Chairman.

PORTSMOUTH (NEW-HAMPSHIRE) VOLUNTEERS.

We, the subscribers, being desirous of attaining the Mili-
tary Art, do agree on the following Rules and Regulations,

viz :

1st. That we will meet at some place that shall be agreed
on by the Company, every Monday and Thursday even-
ing, for the purpose aforesaid.

2d. That on the first Monday evening of every month,

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CORRESPONDENCE, PROCEEDINGS, fcc, APRIL, 1775.

300

(after the exercise is over,) we will choose a proper person
to instruct and preside over the Company ; also a Clerk,
and any other Oflicers that may he judged necessary.

3d. That we will pay ohedience and strict attention lo
such as we shall appoint from time to time to instruct and
command the Company.

Portsmouth, December 20, 1774.

April6th, 1775. — The Company, taking into considera-
tion the shortness of the evenings, and their numbers being
so much increased that it is inconvenient to exercise any
longer within doors ; therefore,

Voted, That after the 10th day of April instant, we will
meet on the parade, or some other convenient place, on
Monday and Thursday mornings, precisely at sunrise.

Voted, That Dr. Hall Jackson, Messrs. James Sheafe,
George Hart, George Gains, and Jeremiah Lobby, be a
Committee to wait on the Honourable Theodore Atkinson,
Esquire, Colonel of the Regiment to which we belong, and
request the favour of him to grant us liberty to beat a drum
to call the Company together; and also to present to him
a copy of our Rules and Regulations, that he may be con-
vinced that we are not a Company detached from his regi-
ment and command.

Attest : J. Libby, Clerk.

Portsmouth, April 7, 1775.

SOUTHAMPTON (VIRGINIA) COMMITTEE.

At a Committee held at the Court-House for the Coun-
ty of Southampton, the eighth day of April, 1775, agree-
able to the Eleventh Article of the Continental Congress,
Present : Edwin Gray, Chairman, Thomas Williamson,
Richard Kello, James Ridley, George Gurley. Clerk,
Benjamin Ruffin, Peter Butts, Benjamin Clements, Jun.,
Joshua Nicholson, Thomas Edmunds, Benjamin Ruffin,
Junior, and Thomas Blunt:

The Proceedings of the late Convention held at the
Town of Richmond, on the 20th of March, were laid before
the Committee, and being read and maturely considered,

Resolved unanimously, That this Committee doth en-
tirely approve the Proceedings of the said Convention,
and that they will use every opportunity to recommend, in
the strongest manner, the several measures then adopted lo
the people of this County.

Resolved, That the several members of this Committee
in their respective Districts (as laid off by a former Com-
mittee) endeavour to collect by subscription the sum of
Ten Pounds, for encouraging Mr. Tait's useful scheme for
making Salt ; and also Fifteen Pounds for the use of the
Deputies lo represent this Colony in Continental Congress ;
and that such Money as may be collected be immediately
paid by the several collectors into the hands of Mr. Edwin
Gray and Mr. Henry Taylor, to be by them transmitted
to Robert Carter Nicholas, Esquire, for the purposes
aforesaid.

Resolved, That Monday, the 17th of this instant, be
appointed for the election of Delegates at the Court-House,
to represent this County in Provincial Congress ; and that
a copy of this Resolution be transmitted to the Clergymen
of the different Parishes of this County, requesting them to
publish' the same in their respective Churches ; and also
that the Clerk of this Committee advertise the same at the
Court-House door on the next court day.

Resolved, That Mr. Benjamin Clements, Junior, Mr.
Benjamin Ruffin, Junior, and Mr. Joshua Nicholson, or
any two of them, be appointed to conduct the election of
the said Delegates.

Resolved, That the thanks of this Committee be given
to Mr. Edwin Gray and Mr. Henry Taylor, our worthy
and patriotick Delegates ; at the same time assuring them
that they have conducted themselves entirely to their satis-
faction in the discharge of that important trust.

Resolved, That this Committee be adjourned to Thursday,
the 13th day of this instant.

Thursday, April 13, 1775.

Present: Edivin Gray, Chairman, Ihnry Taylor, Ri-
chard Kello, Thomas Williamson, James Ridley, Benja-
min Ruffin, Benjamin Clements, Junior. Benjamin Ruffin,
Junior, Thomas Blunt, Thomas Edmunds, Joshua Nichol-
son, and John Thomas Blow.

This Committee taking under their consideration the

necessity of providing the Militia of this County with Am-
munition, and finding an improbability of collecting a sum
sufficient for that purpose in so short a time as they deem
necessary from the people of this County, do therefore
Resolve, That each member will most cheerfully deposit
the sum of Ten Pounds in the hands of Mr. Eiltrin Gray
and Mr. Henry Taylor, or either of them, for the purpose
aforesaid.

Resolved, That Mr. Edwin Gray and Mr. Henry Tay-
lor inform the absent members of this Committee of the
preceding Resolution, requesting them to contribute the
sum of Ten Pounds each for the purpose therein men-
tioned.

Resolved, That Mr. Edwin Gray and Mr. Henry Tay-
lor, or either of them, do, as soon as they have received
the Money so subscribed, or any other sums that may be
voluntarily advanced, make application to the Committee
appointed by the late Convention for procuring Ammuni-
tion, &c, for as much Powder and Lead as the money
they have received will amount to, in the proportion of one
pound of powder to four pounds of lead.

Resolved, That the Powder and Lead, when procured,
shall be stored in such convenient place or places as shall
he agreed on by this Committee, and be liable to any di-
rections of the same.

Silas Kirby, James Lngram, Josiah Kirby, and John
Simmons, voluntarily appeared before this Committee, and
acknowledged they had been guilty of violating the Eighth
Article of the Association, by Gaming at the said Silas
Kirby's, and winning a small sum of money of a certain
Benjamin O'Donnello, a few days before; that it was an
errour they were unthinkingly led into, and are convinced
of its evil tendency; that they are willing to refund every
thing won by them ; and they now assure this Committee
of a more strict compliance for the future with the several
Articles of the General Association.

This Committee therefore Resolve, That the said Silas
Kirby, James Ingram, Josiah Kirby, and John Simmons,
have been guilty of violating the Association ; yet, in con-
sideration of their candid behaviour before this Committee,
and their ever conforming to the Association before this,
their breach of it, hope the publick will join with them in
considering the aforesaid persons as not inimical to Ameri-
can liberty.

Resolved, That the Clerk of this Committee transmit a
copy of the proceedings thereof to Messrs. Dixon and
Hunter, requesting them to publish the same.
Edwin Gray, Chairman.
Samuel Kello, Clerk of the Committee.

TO THE PEOPLE OF VIRGINIA.

Prince William, April 8, 1775.

It is so true as to have become proverbial, that a drown-
ing man will catch at a straw. On this principle it is that
a despotick but almost despairing Ministry, having been
compelled by the wisdom, virtue, and firmness of North
America, to show a disposition to retract from their tyran-
nical system, are yet suspended in their determinations,
and find their hopes kept alive by the corruption of some,
by the folly and perverseness of others, on this side of the
Atlantick. The most contemptible tales are magnified
into importance when the mind wishes them to be true,
and thus the lies of a Rivington, or the vanity of some
heavy-headed Virginian, will swell trifles into proofs of
disunion, and serve to persuade perseverance in measures
hurtful indeed to America, but certainly ruinous to Great
Britain. Among this tribe of mischief- working things may
be classed a senseless paper lately published in the Norfolk
Intelligencer, said to he "Instructions drawn up for the
Delegates to the Convention at Richmond, the 20th of
March, from a certain County in Virginia." Was this
curious production rejected by the sensible Printers in
lliliiumsburgh, which occasioned it to pass through that
common sewer of political falsehood, the Norfolk Intelli-
gencer 1 Though the framer of these Instructions certainly
wants sense, he may be allowed to possess some cunning,
because he has so contrived that willingness of mind, or
ignorance of fact, may both conclude a whole County in
/ "tvirinia lo have perfidiously opposed the general union —
a union formed, both as to time and matter, on the unani-

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CORRESPONDENCE, PROCEEDINGS, fcc, APRIL, 1775.

302

mous concurrence of this Country in August last, and final-
ly confirmed by the same unanimous approbation on the
20th of March succeeding. But let us consider what are
the motives and principles that probably govern this drawer
up of Instructions, (for we do not learn they were ever
signed,) thus to induce a belief so injurious to the fame of
any County. It could not be the little vanity of showing
how smoothly nonsense may be written, because the writer's
name being concealed, his share of this merit must be small
indeed. It could not conduce to procure an adoption of
his crude ideas at the Convention, because the publication
appears posteriour to the rising of the Convention. It
would seem, therefore, that this fiction was designed for
the bad purpose before-mentioned, of keeping up the delu-
sion in Great Britain, and comforting with hopes an almost
expiring, venal, despotick Administration. It is not pro-
per to insult the publick with a minute refutation of these
Instructions ; suffice it to observe, that the writer confesses
" the grand principal (we will suppose him here to mean
principles) for which we contend, are the rights of legisla-
tion and taxation ; of legislation respecting our internal
police, and of taxation independent of every power on
earth ;" which inestimable privileges, he farther declares,
" we will maintain at the risk of our lives and fortunes."
Bravo ! Our man grows bold here ; but presently, alas ! he
sinks again ! For if his Instructions mean any thing, they
mean to condemn the proceedings of the Congress, be-
cause the Quebeck Bill is beyond his " ideas ;" because
suspending Commerce will be fatal to those who are endea-
vouring to rob us of what himself calls "inestimable privi-
leges;" and for a few other reasons equally cogent and
sensible. Such is the inconsistency and folly of the ene-
mies of America ; for they are still enemies, whether
influenced by vanity or wickedness, or misled by want of
understanding. Americanus.

address of freeholders of fincastle county
(Virginia) to lord dunmore.

To His Excellency the Right Honourable John Earl of
Dunmore, His Majesty's Lieutenant and Governour-
General of the Colony of Virginia :

The Address of the Freeholders and a number of the In-
habitants of Fincastle County.

My Lord : Notwithstanding the unhappy disputes that
at present subsist between the Mother Country and the
Colonies, in which we have given the publick our senti-
ments, yet justice and gratitude, as well as a sense of our
duty, induce us collectively to return your Lordship our
unfeigned thanks for the great services you have rendered
the frontiers in general, and this County in particular, in
the late expedition against our enemy Indians.

In our former wars with the savages, we long suffered
every species of barbarity ; many of our friends and fel-
low-subjects were inhumanly butchered and carried into
captivity, more to be dreaded than death itself; our houses
plundered and burned, and our Country laid waste by an
enemy, against whom, from our dispersed situation, and
their manner of carrying on war, it was impossible to make
a proper defence on our frontiers. Your Lordship being
convinced of this, proposed to attack the enemy in their
own Country, well judging that it would be the most effec-
tual means to reduce them to reason, and be attended with
little more expense to the community than a partial de-
fence of such an extensive frontier. The proposal was
cheerfully embraced, and the ardour of the Militia to en-
gage in that very necessary service, could only be equalled
by that of your Lordship in carrying it on. That the plan
of an expedition should be laid when the season was far
advanced, and near three thousand choice Troops raised in
a few Counties, and put under the command of many
brave and experienced Officers ; that those forces should
be equipped and fully supplied with provisions, and march
several hundred miles through mountains to meet the ene-
my ; that so many Nations of warlike Indians should be
reduced to sue for peace ; that those Troops should return
victorious to their homes by the last of November; and all
this without any publick money in hand to defray any part
of the expense, shows at first view the immediate utility
of the undertaking, and must be a convincing proof that
the Almighty, in a peculiar manner, blessed your Lord-

ship's attempts to establish peace, and stop the further effu-
sion of human blood ; but that your Lordship should
forego your ease, and every domestick felicity, and march
at the head of a body of those Troops many hundred miles
from the Seat of Government, cheerfully undergoing all
the fatigues of the campaign, by exposing your person,
and marching on foot with the officers and soldiers, com-
mands our warmest returns of gratitude ; and the rather,
as we have no instance of such condescension in your
Lordship's predecessors on any similar occasion.

We should be wanting in point of gratitude, were we to
omit returning our thanks on this occasion to the Officers
and Soldiers who entered into the service with so much
alacrity. The memory of such as fell nobly fighting for
their Country ought to be very dear to it.

That your Lordship may enjoy every domestick bless-
ing ; that you may long govern the brave and free people
of Virginia, and that the present disturbances may be
amicably settled, is the ardent wish of the inhabitants of
Fincastle.

His Lordship's Answer.

I am very much obliged to the freeholders and inhabi-
tants of the County of Fincastle for their Address, and
am happy to find they think the service I undertook upon
the occasion of the Indian disturbances merits their pub-
lick thanks. I assure them that they will ever find me
equally ready to exert my best endeavours for every pur-
pose which may tend to the security or promote the happi-
ness of the people of Virginia.

PENNSYLVANIA COUNCIL.

At a Council held at Philadelphia, on Saturday, 8th
April, 1775,

Present: The Honourable John Penn, Esquire, Go-
vernour, Benjamin Chew, James Tilghman, Edward
Shippen, Esquires.

Pursuant to an Order in Council, on the 13th day of
March last, a draught of a Proclamation for recalling that
issued on the 2d of November, and confirming the Procla-
mation of the 15th of September last, agreeably to His Ma-
jesty's permission signified to the Governour by the Earl
of Dartmouth, was laid before the Board, and being duly
considered was agreed to ; and the Governour, by the ad-
vice of the Board, issued the same this day in the follow-
ing words, viz :

By the Honourable John Penn, Esquire, Governour and
Commander-in-chief of the Province of Pennsylva-
nia, and Counties of New-Castle, Kent, and Sussex,
on Delaware :

A Proclamation.

AVhereas, by my Proclamation bearing date the fifteenth
day of September last, I did enjoin and require all persons
residing to the Northward and Eastward of the lines and
boundaries theretofore run, and marked as boundaries and
division lines between the Province of Maryland and the
Province of Pennsylvania, and Counties of New- Castle,
Kent, and Sussex, on Delaware, by Commissioners for that
purpose appointed and authorized, in pursuance of two
Articles of Agreement made between the proprietors of the
Province of Maryland and the proprietors of the Province
of Pennsylvania and the Counties of New- Castle, Kent,
and Sussex, on Delaware; and also in pursuanc eof two
several Decrees of the Lord High Chancellor of England,
for the specifick performance of the said Articles, to yield
obedience to the respective laws of the Province of Penn-
sylvania and Counties aforesaid on Delaware : And I did
further by my said Proclamation require all Magistrates,
Sheriffs, and other Officers of justice appointed or to be
appointed in the said Province and Counties, to put in
execution the respective laws thereof against all offenders
within the lines and limits aforesaid as by my said Procla-
mation may more at large appear : And whereas by my
other Proclamation, bearing date the second day of Novem-
ber last past, 1 did, in obedience to his Majesty's commands
signified to me by a letter from the Right Honourable the
Earl of Dartmouth, one of His Majesty's principal Secre-
taries of State, enjoin all Magistrates, Sheriffs, and other

303

CORRESPONDENCE, PROCEEDINGS, &c, APRIL, 1775.

304

Officers of justice, to desist from exercising ilie jurisdic-
tion of Pennsylvania or the Counties pf New-Ckutk, Kenf,
and Sussex, on Delaware, beyond those places where it
had been theretofore usually exercised, until His Majesty's
further pleasure should be known in the premises, any
thing in my former Proclamation to the contrary notwith-
standing: And whereas 1 am now informed by a letter
from the Right Honourable the Earl of Dartmouth, dated
the seventh day of January last, "that His Majesty, on
further consideration, hath been graciously pleased to ap-
prove of the arrangement made by my said Proclamation
of the fifteenth of September last, and permit me to recall
that of the second of November last:" I have, therefore,
thought proper, by the advice of the Council, to issue this
Proclamation, to make known the premises to all whom it
may concern hereby, in pursuance of His Majesty's plea-
sure and permission, revoking my said Proclamation of the
second of November last, and requiring all Officers and
others within the Province of Pennsylvania and Counties
of New- Castle, Kent, and Sussex, on Delaware, to yield
obedience to, and in all things observe, the orders and in-
junctions in my said Proclamation of the fifteenth of Sep-
tember last contained, as they will answer the contrary at
their peril.

Given under my hand and the great seal of the Province
o^ Pennsylvania at Philadelphia, the eighth day of April,
in the year of our Lord one thousand seven hundred and
seventy-five, and in the fifteenth year of the reign of our
Sovereign Lord George the Third, by the grace of God
of Great Britain, France, and Ireland King, Defender of
the Faith, and so forth. John Penn.

By his Honour's command :

Joseph Shippen, Jun., Secretary.
God save the King.

The Governour at the same time communicated to the
Board a Letter he had just received from Governour Eden,
which follows in these words, viz :

Annapolis, March 25, 1775.

Sir : I have taken the earliest opportunity to acknow-
ledge the receipt of your Honour's favour of the 16th in-
stant, and to acquaint you, that as I have not received any
notification of His Majesty's having on further consideration
been pleased to approve the arrangement made by your
Proclamation of the 15th September, and to permit you to
recall that of the 2d November last, I cannot think myself
justifiable in joining with your Honour to issue such a Pro-
clamation ; and am now, with the advice of my Council, to
request that you will suspend the issuing of the same until
such time as I can have an opportunity of hearing from
England, in hopes of preventing any disturbances that
may probably happen between the inhabitants of the two
Provinces, in consequence of the issuing a partial Procla-
mation. 1 am, with great respect, your Honour's most
obedient and most humble servant, Robert Eden.

His Honour John Penn, Esquire.

To which Letter the Governour, by the advice of the
Council, wrote the following answer at the table, viz:

Philadelphia, April 8, 1775.

Sir : I have the favour of your Excellency's letter of
the 25th March. Considering what passed between us
the last summer on the subject, I rather wished than ex-
pected your concurrence in a Proclamation, and my last
letter was only meant to give you notice of my intention,
because I would choose to act in the most open manner.

If any dependance is to be had on my information, there
is no probability of a disturbance between the people of
the two Provinces. They are in general satisfied that the
jurisdiction of this Government must take place, and there-
fore wish to have it hastened ; nor can I imagine they will
give an opposition to a measure which 1 have His Majesty's
permission to take ; and 1 am persuaded such an opposition
will not be countenanced by the Government of Man/land.
I therefore flatter myself that your Excellency will not
think me unreasonable in persisting to issue a Proclamation
agreeable to the King's permission and the advice of my
Council. I am, with great regard, your Excellency's most
obedient and humble servant, John Penn.

To his Excellency Robert Eden, Esquire, Governour of
Maryland.

EXTRACT OF A LETTER FROM DUTCHESS COUNTY, NEW-
YOKK, DATED APRIL 8j 1775*

A number of the Inhabitants of Charlotte Precinct, in
this County, met yesterday, having notice for that purpose,
to signify their sentiments about choosing Deputies to meet
other Deputies from the several Counties, to appoint Dele-
gates for the ensuing Congress. It was agreed that the mat-
ter should be determined by vote ; and that the business
might be conducted with fairness and justice, Mr. Enos
Northrup was chosen by the friends of constitutional lib-
erty, and Cornelius Humphrey, Esquire, by the advocates
for a Congress, to preside and inspect the voting. Two
Clerks were also appointed. When the Poll was closed,
the number of those who were against Deputies and Dele-
gates, and on the side of the Constitution, was - - 140
For Deputies, .-..--..---35

Just as the poll was closing, a number of Constitution-
alists, about one hundred and ten, made their appearance ;
but they did not vote, as the opposite party gave up the
contest.

Dutchess County consists of eleven Districts, and only
four of them have voted for Deputies, and Richmond,
Tryon, Cumberland, Charlotte, and Gloucester, will be
unrepresented in our Provincial Convention.

PROTEST OF THE FREEHOLDERS OF SEVEN PRECINCTS
IN DUTCHESS COUNTY, NEW-YORK.

Mr. Gaine : A Dutchess County Freeholder desires
you will publish the following Protest, as the inhabitants of
the seven Precincts first mentioned therein have been in-
formed that Robert R. Livingston, Jun., Egbert Benson,
and Morris Graham, Esquires, have been deputed to repre-
sent the County of Dutchess; but by what kind of law-
casuistry a representation of the County is made by three
Deputies, we are at a loss to guess, unless a small and dis-
appointed minority can be supposed to represent a large
and respectable majority. If any of the minority enter-
tain the least doubt that the Protest does not express the
sense of the Precincts therein mentioned, formal and ample
testimonies of its authenticity shall be sent you :

The Inhabitants of the seven Precincts of Bcekman's,
Pauling's, Southeast, Fredericksburgh, Philipse, Char-
lotte, and Poughkeepsie, in the County of Dutchess, com-
posing at least three-fourths of the inhabitants of the said
County, take this publick method of protesting against the
appointment of any person or persons that may be deputed
from the Precincts of America, Northeast, Rhynbcck, and
Rhumbout, to represent the said County as Deputies in a
Provincial Congress, intended, as they are informed, to be
assembled at Nerv-York, on the 20th instant, as five of the
Precincts first mentioned are almost unanimously opposed
to all unconstitutional representations not warranted by the
laws of the land, a very great majority of the Precinct of
Charlotte, and a majority of one hundred and ten to sev-
enty-seven, in the Precinct of Poughkeepsie. The seven
Precincts above mentioned, confide solely in the mode of
application for redress of grievances adopted by their loyal
and patriotick Assembly, whose proceedings on this head
they most heartily approve of, convinced that they ought
not, they will not adopt any other mode of application,
but stand ready, at all times, to evince their loyalty to their
gracious Sovereign, their firm attachment to the Constitu-
tion, and their steady opposition to every seditious and trea-
sonable act derogatory to either.

New- York, May 1, 1775.

Mr. Gaine : In your last Paper appeared an uncommon
advertisement, with a Protest annexed, as was said from
the Freeholders of seven Precincts, which were said to
contain three-fourths of the inhabitants of Dutchess Coun-
ty. I choose to make no reflections on the author, since I
would not wish to heighten the resentment or contempt of
the County in which he lives ; but, in justice to the County
of which 1 am a freeholder, I hereby challenge him to show
that that Protest was ever publickly read, or approved by
any one of the Precincts he mentions, before it was pub-
lished. I likewise deny, and call upon him to prove that
the seven Precincts, in whose name, (but without whose
authority) the above Protest was published, contains above

805

CORRESPONDENCE, PROCEEDINGS, he, APRIL, 1775.

306

half of ihe freeholders of Dutchess County, after deducting
those that voted for Delegates in Poughlceepsie and Char-
lotte Precincts, although he so confidently asserts that they
contain three-fourths. But that the publick may no longer
be deceived by more presentations of the state of that
County, I am willing to put it upon this issue : the County
of Dutchess contains eighteen hundred freeholders; if the
author of the Protest will publish a list of six hundred
freeholders that are opposed to the election of Delegates,
or will sign his Protest, I undertake to show double the
number who approve of their appointment.

A Freeholder of Dutchess County.

N. B. No person will be considered as a freeholder,
whose Precinct is not annexed to his name, as that is the
only way to guard against misrepresentations.

New-York, May 15, 1775.
Mr. Gaine : As in this season of publick distress, every
altercation that may tend to promote divisions and animosi-
ties, ought carefully to be avoided ; and as a coalition of
parties in the County of Dutchess will probably very soon
take place, and a proper union between its inhabitants es-
tablished, no reply, for the above reasons, will be sent you
in answer to the observations in one of your last Papers, on
the Protest from that County; instead of which, as it may
be somewhat satisfactory, you may assure the publick that
the numerous body of freeholders and inhabitants who have
heretofore been averse to the nomination of Committees,
opposed solely from a virtuous principle of promoting there-
by the real interests of their Country. They conceived, and
had good reasons to believe, that as the mode of application
for redress of grievances adopted by their Assembly was
the only constitutional one, it would most probably be at-
tended with the desired effect ; and that no motives un-
friendly to the liberties of their Country ever influenced
any part of their conduct, when opposed to Committees.

COMMITTEE OF MONTREAL TO THE COMMITTEE OF
SAFETY OF MASSACHUSETTS.

Montreal, April 8, 1775.

Gentlemen : We have received your letter of the 21st of
February, by Mr. Brown, and see clearly the great injus-
tice that has been done you. We deeply feel the sorrow
and afflictions of our suffering brethren, and sincerely wish
it was in our power to afford you effectual relief; but alas,
we are more the objects of pity and compassion than your-
selves, who are now suffering under the heavy hand of
power, deprived as we are of the common rights of the
miserable, to complain. You have numbers, strength, and
a common cause to support you in your opposition. We
are still more divided here by our interests than by our re-
ligion, language, and manners ; and the apprehensions of
evils to come upon us in a short time, from the unlimited
power of the Governour, strikes all opposition dead. In-
deed few in this Colony dare vent their griefs, but groan
in silence, and dream of lettres de cachet, confiscations,
and imprisonment, offering up their fervent prayers to the
throne of grace to prosper your righteous cause, which
alone will free us from those jealous fears and apprehensions
that rob us of our peace. In a word, we are the British
inhabitants of this widely extended Province, united in
their sentiments. We have neither numbers nor wealth
sufficient to do you any essential service. We must, there-
fore, cast ourselves into the arms of our sister Colonies,
relying upon the wisdom, vigour, and firmness of the Gen-
eral Continental Congress for our protection, and hoping
they will entertain no animosity or resentment against us
because we cannot join them in the ensuing General Con-
gress, which, were we to attempt, the Canadians would
join the Government to frustrate. You will please to bear
in mind, that not only those who hold the helm of Govern-
ment, but also all those who make wealth or ambition the
chief object of their pursuit, are professedly your enemies,
and would be glad to reduce you to the same abject state
with themselves. Nevertheless, the bulk of the people,
botli English and Canadians, are of quite contrary senti-
ments, and wish well to your cause, but dare not stir a finger
to help you, being of no more estimation in the political
machine than the sailors are in shaping the course, or work-
Fourth Series. — Vol. ii. 20

ing the ship in which they sail. They may mutter and
swear, but must obey. However, should Government
handle them too roughly, and arbitrarily attempt to force
them upon dangerous and disagreeable service, to which
they have already shown an irreconcilable aversion, they
may, perhaps, dearly repent it.

The case is quite different with their noblesse, or gentry.
The pre-eminence given to their religion, together with a
participation of honours and offices, in common with the
English, not only flatters their natural pride and vanity,
but is regarded by them as a mark of distinction and merit,
that lays open their way to fortune ; of liberty or law, they
have not the least notion.

As to the savages that dwell round about us, doubtless
there are some to be found among them, who, for the sake
of plunder, would murder, burn, and destroy; but we con-
ceive that their Chiefs know their own interests better than
to interfere as a Nation in this family quarrel ; for let which
side will prevail, they are sure, in that case, to be the vic-
tims.

We desire to know whether English Delegates would
be accepted under the above-named limitations, namely :
without entering into the General Association for the non-
importation of goods from Great Britain, or the non-ex-
portation of the produce of this Colony, and the India
Countries above ; and beg to be informed in what manner
we can be serviceable to your cause, without bringing down
ruin upon our own heads. It may not be amiss just to
hint that the idea the Canadians seem to have of this Col-
ony at present, is, that it is to be a French Government,
holding under the Crown of Great Britain, from which
they mean to exclude every Englishman, save the Gov-
ernour and Lieutenant Governour.

We heartily wish our abilities to serve you were equal
to our wills, and pray Heaven to prosper your generous
purpose ; and are, with the utmost consideration and feeling
for your distresses, gentlemen, your most obedient and very
humble servants and fellow-sufferers,

Thos. Walker, James Price,
John Wells, Wm. Haywood.

P. S. It is our earnest request that this letter may not
be published, for fear of bad consequences to the sub-
scribers.

EXTRACT OF A LETTER FROM LONDON TO A GENTLEMAN
IN NEW-YORK, DATED

London, April 10, 1775.

The quality at the court-end despise the poor and indus-
trious, and are obliged now to inform the mob that their
brethren in America are to be slaughtered by the large
Fleet and A rmy now ready to sail against them . The people
are kept in total ignorance of publick affairs, and the wis-
dom of our Senators is to deceive those they are chose to
protect. There are to be two thousand pounds added to
the King's salary, with a present, to pay his household debts
of some thousands. When the budget opens, fine work
how this money will be raised, and each common shop pay
ten pounds, or fifteen pounds sterling tax. Every thing is
taxed but the publick places of diversion ; and they are so
filled with people, so numerous, and cause so large a circu-
lation of cash, that they are the only blessing the people
think are left then) ; for they make the rich spend their
money, and the sharpers get it. All this is the wise people
who are to have the collecting of your taxes, and to sup-
port this mode are the mighty preparations of war. Oh, God!
who beholds the inhabitants of the earth, and hears the cries
of the poor ; who understands judgment, and rules in right-
eousness, look on America, and keep the land from being
polluted with the sins of the Mother Country. Oh, if I
dare write what I wish you all to do — what you can do,
and what Providence seems to intend you shall do !

If you submit, all will be forever lost ; a curse on your
names, and your estates confiscated by those bills of attain-
der that are ready to pass against you. 'Tis impossible to
describe the ruin that is studied ; the load of taxes ; the
number of placemen to be saddled on you. The land is to
be confiscated, and the King an arbitrary Monarch. He
is determined to be arbitrary, and consults no one who will
not encourage his universal sway. He lives retired ; only
three times a week goes to the publick diversions, pantheon,

307

CORRESPONDENCE, PROCEEDINGS, &c, APRIL, 1775.

808

plays, operas, and has given fifteen hundred pounds to an
Italian singer. The young Prince is to go to housekeep-
ing this spring, and llie men appointed to attend his levee
are of such a complexion as forebodes evil.

Four thousand of the new Army, with Colonel Howe, are
to hoist the flag at New-York, and stop all communication
with New-England. If the Fleet sails, you must fight or
be destroyed; for the Ministry are determined to destroy
your trade, to ruin the growth of the Colonies, and to stop
all the blessings Heaven has given you. Get ready to fight,
for nothing can save you but the power of the Colonies
and their own strength, and to America will England owe
their liberty or be ruined. Several gentlemen called on
me, and desired me to write to you to arm immediately.
Get ready to receive ten thousand men and four hundred
sail, and you are to find provisions and pay them yourselves.
New charters are ready now ; for your money, the soldiers
have orders to fight ; new cannon, guns, powder, and ball, for
war and blood ! The cry of blood is gone out against you.

Your fate now depends on the brave and spirited con-
duct of yourselves. You see the diabolical plot is deep
laid against you ; and by bribes and undue influence, has
obtained the late and the present Acts for blocking up your
Trade, and taking those unwarrantable measures against the
Colonies and the sense of the people.

This day will be remembered in history; for John Wilkes
and the King to meet on such a solemn occasion, no less
than the lives and property of all America and the whole
English Nation. Great will be the event of this day.
The Lord Mayor, Aldermen, Liverymen, Recorder, Re-
membrancer, and City Officers, all went in procession. A
copy of the King's answer is to be sent to you. This
answer will rouse up the blood of the English, and all
America will see that they must fight, and that they have
no hopes left. The glory of old England is no more !
All is lost ! God is about to move the Kingdom ; and soon,
very soon, the King will see his counsellors have deceived
him, and the people of England will not bear their insults.
The Bank and the Stocks will fail, as no trade is carried on
with spirit until the spring ; and now all begins to stop ;
all things are in an uproar ; the City is affronted ; the people
insulted ; the Island of Great Britain exposed to the
French and the Spaniards ; no remittances from the mer-
chants as usual; the great expense to keep up the war,
together with fighting against their own people, (and in the
most unjust cause that ever disgraced a Kingdom.) All
men of sense are astonished and tremble. England has
taken her last legal steps, and done all they lawfully can
do, and now depend on the Americans to help themselves,
and on their own feelings ; that the Americans will act like
men of virtue and wisdom, and that all will oppose the
greatest tyrant that ever yet was seen, who now is hardened
Pharaoh like.

The Quakers in England have petitioned the King
themselves, as a people, and now attended the City Peti-
tion, all in one voice against the Ministry, and are all faith-
ful to the people in America. The Quakers are the most
hearty in the cause, and see the dreadful consequences of
a civil war. Our forefathers did not think that ever a King
of England would break his oath, and murder his subjects
in cold blood, and take their money, or rob his people,
without giving them any opportunity to defend themselves
but by the sword. This is dreadful, and dreadfully true.
May the God of our forefathers direct you so to defend
your rights and property, as will teach us to depend on the
justice of our cause, and the hearty love of our country, in
full confidence of a complete victory. This is the hearty
prayer of thousands.

The continual inquiries are, how will the Colonies behave ?
Will they act like men ? Or are they such poltrons as-
Lord Sandwich said they were ? In his speech in the
House of Lords, he said that the Americans are cowards ;
will not fight ; are men of a mean spirit ; dastardly pol-
trons; all noise and bully; that a few soldiers would soon
make them submit. But God forbid that my worthy friends
in America should add disgrace to ruin, and make the cause
of God and man of no effect. The Fleet is sailed or sail-
ing. General Gage has drawn bills on the Treasury,
£2400, lor secret services, to pay the tools of Government
in all the different Colonies. Such bad policy must bring
on ruin. Many of the hungry dependants on the King

have asked for places ; and you will not only have taxes to
p;iv, and a Standing Army set over you, but you will have
all those vile cattle to maintain. You will have all your
blessings taken away if you submit. But if you stand firmly
out, and demand your rights, and are determined to fight,
the Ministry will be obliged to send you offers of peace,
and make satisfaction for all the damage you have already
sustained, and be glad of a reconciliation, for England
cannot possibly live without you. The silence of the peo-
ple was occasioned by fear of the Bank, as the National
debt is so great ; but now, the Tobacco and Oil, and other
revenues from America, bring to England two millions.
This is proved from the Custom-House books, which the
Chamberlain of London has been at the expense and
trouble to collect and lay before the King. Yet his heart
is hardened like iron, and, as Pharaoh, he will drive his
chariot into the German Sea, not without a host of his
Nobles to attend him.

pbince georgk's county (Maryland) committee.

At a meeting of the Committee of Observation for Prince
George's County, at the house of Richard Carnes, in Pis-
cataway, on Monday, the 10th day of April, 1775, were
present thirteen Members.

By a letter from the Committee at Baltimore, of the
15th ult., it appears that a Brig, called the Sally, William
Moat master, from Bristol, having four thousand bushels
of Salt on board, imported since the first of February last,
arrived there lately, consigned to Doctor John Stephenson.
That part of the said Salt was put on board three or four
crafts, supposed to be intended for sale in the different
Rivers in this Province, and that one Bailey, in a Sloop,
took part of said Salt. And it appearing to this Commit-
tee, from the information of Messrs. William Lyles, Jr.,
George Fraser Hawkins, and FIczekiah Wheeler, that
they had, on or about the 15th of March, purchased of one
Thomas Bailey a parcel of fine Salt, since suspected to be
part of the above, the aforesaid Thomas Bailey appears,
and being informed of the above, declares his concern that
he should have been unguardedly led into a step that he
now finds to have been wrong ; and that, to shew the sin-
cerity of such declaration, voluntarily consents and requests
that the Salt sold as above be destroyed ; on which he fully
gives up all claim against the persons to whom he had sold
the same, and requests the determination of the Committee
be postponed, as he can furnish evidence from Baltimore
to prove his innocence: on which it is referred to this day
fortnight. Mr. Carnes, Mr. Thomas Dent, Mr. Richard
Dent, Mr. Edward Edelen, and Mr. George Diggs, or
any two of them, are appointed to see the Salt destroyed.

At a meeting of the Committee of Observation, for
Prince George's County, at the house of Mr. Richard
Carnes, in Piscataway, on Saturday, the 27th day of May,
1775, were present nineteen Members.

The said Thomas Bailey failing to appear, according to
the former reference, with the evidence proposed from Bal-
timore, the Committee proceeded to consider the charge
against him ; and as it appeared from the said Bailey's own
declaration, that he was informed at Alexandria, before he
landed the aforesaid Salt, that the ship load of Salt which
arrived at Baltimore, consigned to Doctor John Stephenson,
was declared to be illegally imported, and ordered to be
destroyed,

They do Resolve, That the said Thomas Bailey has com-
mitted a wilful violation of the Continental Association, by
selling and landing Salt imported in the Sally, Captain Moat.

The Committee being informed that Mr. John Baynes,
of Piscataway, had killed a Lamb, contrary to the Resolve
of the Provincial Convention, held at Annapolis in De-
cember last, Messrs. Luke Marbury and George Diggs
were sent to inform him that the Committee desired his
immediate attendance. Mr. Baynes appeared, and being
informed as above, acknowledged that he had killed a Lamb,
and conceived that he had not thereby violated the Conti-
nental Association, which he purposed to adhere to, and
thought it superiour to the Provincial Convention, which,
he conceived, was only intended to carry the Resolves of
the Continental Congress into execution.

Resolved, That the said Mr. Baynes, in killing the said

309

CORRESPONDENCE, PROCEEDINGS, he, APRIL, 1775.

Lamb, lias violated the Resolve of the Provincial Conven-
tion ; that such measures may be of mischievous conse-
quence, as tending to create a disregard to publick regula-
tion, formed for preserving the liberties of America.

Ordered, That a copy of these proceedings be signed
by the Chairman, and sent to be published in the Mary-
land Gazette. Signed by order of the Committee:

Josias Beall, Chairman.

ANNE ARUNDEL COUNTY (MARYLAND) COMMITTEE.

At a meeting of the Committee of Observation for
Anne Arundel County, held at Mr. Isaac McHard's, the
10th of April, were present forty-three Members.

It being moved that a Paper printed in the Publick
Ledger of the 4th of last January, entitled, " Facts rela-
tive to the Riot at Annapolis in Maryland," be read, and
the motion being seconded, the Paper aforesaid was read
accordingly by the Clerk :

On motion, Resolved, That the said Paper be reprinted
in the Maryland Gazette.

2. Resolved unanimously, That the said Paper con-
tains a false, scandalous, and malicious narrative of facts
invented by the author, or so disguised and misrepresented,
that when they border upon truth, and even seem to
assume its semblance, they are devoid of its reality.

3. Resolved unanimously, That the Author of the said
Paper has designedly injured, against the conviction of his
own conscience, the characters of the gentlemen mentioned
and alluded to in his publication, gentlemen of approved
worth ; that he has cast unjust and invidious aspersions on
a great number of very respectable inhabitants of this and
two adjoining Counties, by representing them as a lawless
mob, ignorant of their interests, or too lazy to be at the
trouble of investigating them.

4. Resolved unanimously, That the Author has mani-
fested an inveterate enmity to the liberties of this Prov-
ince in particular, and of British America in general, by
insinuating the necessity of introducing a military and mer-
cenary force to support the Civil Government, and to secure
obedience to the Laws of this Colony : that, by a sugges-
tion so false and so malicious, he has inadvertently disco-
vered his political opinion, that these Colonies ought, and
his secret wish that they may be forced to submit to the
arbitrary decrees of a despotiek Ministry and a servile
Parliament. Isaac McHard, Clerk Committee.

Facts relative to the Riot at Annapolis, in Maryland.

Nothing but a civil war at home can be so pernicious
and detrimental to this Nation, as a contest with the Colo-
nies driven to too great a length, as they are connected
with the Mother Country by every social tie subsisting
between subjects of the same Empire divided by so great a
distance ; the commerce of the one, and the defence of the
other, depending in a great measure on a mutual harmony
and good understanding with each other; in a word, they
may be said to be linked together by the strongest inte-
rests, those of protection and profit.

This being the case, it is not surprising that every piece
of intelligence on a subject so important and consequential
to the community at large, should be received by every
individual with the utmost avidity ; for it is next to impos-
sible for any British subject to be so neutral or disinterested
in a matter so momentous as the present unhappy situation
of our affairs on the Continent of America, as not to wish
to be acquainted with the proceedings there, however
limited and confined they may be in their nature, and pri-
vate in their consequences. I hope, on this account, the
following narration, taken from the best and most authen-
tick authorities, will be agreeable to the publick, as from it
may be deduced the real source and primary causes of the
riot at Annapolis in Maryland, in which the Brigantine,
called the Peggy, laden with Teas, was burnt ; but I ima-
gine some will scarcely believe that " an Officer in his
Majesty's Revenue" was the principal abetter and promo-
ter of the riot, though this was actually the case.

At the first publick meeting at Annapolis on American
affairs, after the passing the Boston Port Bill, a resolution
was proposed and zealously supported by many members
at the meeting — " That the gentlemen of the Law should

310

decline bringing any action for debts due to persons in
Great Britain:' The passing so dishonest a resolution,
however necessary and convenient it might appear to some
people in trade, was too pregnant with injustice to meet
with general approbation ; for the honest and thinking tra-
ders plainly foresaw that this measure, calculated only to
serve the private purposes and views of a few individuals,
would, in the end, greatly prejudice and injure the general
credit of the Province, and prove extremely prejudicial to
its commerce ; therefore a strong opposition was formed,
and a spirited protest was entered against the resolution, in
both of which Mr. Stewart, one of the owners of the Brig-
antine, distinguished himself, and bore a very active share
therein.

But notwithstanding that the opposition of the protes-
ters against this dishonest and illegal resolution seemed to
give general satisfaction, and met with almost universal
approbation, as appeared by that measure never having
again been proposed to be adopted at any of the future
meetings ; nevertheless Mr. Stewart's conduct therein pro-
cured him many enemies amongst those whose interest was
injured ; and it afforded matter for calumny and com-
plaint to many of the neighbouring Merchants, who did not
fail to embrace the first opportunity which happened by
the arrival of the Brigantine with Teas on board, of gra-
tifying their spleen and malice, and satiating their diaboli-
cal resentment and revenge, by endeavouring the ruin,
perhaps the death of the man who had honestly dared
actively to oppose these dishonest designs.

By the Brigantine, Messrs. Williams, the gentlemen to
whom the Tea was consigned, had also fortunately received
a plentiful supply of other goods from London ; this gave
umbrage to some of their neighbours who had been disap-
pointed of the goods they intended to lay in before the
Association or Non-Importation Agreement, which was then
generally expected, and which has actually taken place,
should operate ; amongst these there was one house, a
branch of a mercantile one in London, and of which Mr.
Davison, Deputy Collector and Deputy Comptroller is a
partner, to which the Messrs. Williams were likely to
become formidable rivals in trade, who had the misfortune
to have a vessel, on board of which the goods were ship-
ped, stranded in the English Channel. Chagrined at their
own disappointment, and determined that Messrs. Williams
should not reap the benefit of this seasonable supply by the
Peggy Stewart, resolved also to wreak their vengeance
on Mr. Stewart. They used every means to inflame the
populace, not only to prevent the landing of the Tea, but
also to procure its destruction.

In this dilemma, Messrs. Williams adopted the only
prudent method they had left to extricate themselves from
the impending danger. Aware of the machinations of their
enemies, they wisely refused to enter the Teas, or pay the
duties, imagining that thereby the people would be satisfied,
and that the Teas being seized for non-payment of the duties,
the Officers of the Customs would in that case be obliged to
land them, even at the risk of tarring and feathering.

But Mr. Stewart, as an owner of the vessel, anxious
for despatch, in order that she might proceed to another
port, too precipitately, as appeared by the issue, settled
the matter otherwise. He agreed to deposit a bill of ex-
change at the Custom-House, as security for the duty of the
Teas, which was the very point his enemies wished ; for by
this measure he laid himself open to the most virulent
attacks malice could invent to excite the populace against
him, which would end in his destruction.

To forward their malicious and infernal designs, the
officer of the revenue before mentioned, although the
house of which he was a partner had, unmolested, three
months before, landed Teas, used every means in his power,
personally, and by the interest of his partner, who is under-
taker of the publick buildings, and by the means and
assistance of every friend and dependant they had in the
neighbourhood, endeavoured to stir up the populace against
Mr. Stewart, in which they proved but too successful; for
having depicted his proceedings as a crime of the most
atrocious nature, giving out "that it was done intentionally
to entail slavery and heavy taxes on the Americans, and to
strike at the root of, and tear up every privilege British sub-
jects possessed on the Continent of America," the minds of
the people were so inflamed, that they threatened death to

811

CORRESPONDENCE, PROCEEDINGS, &c, APRIL, 1775.

312

Mr. Stewart, and desolation to his store and dwelling-
house.

The mob of Maryland, like the common people of all
Countries, are ever ready to receive the first impressions ;
and being too lazy or too ignorant to inquire or examine
into causes or complaints, they are ever violent in their
proceedings ; and when a notion is once impressed on
them, it is scarcely to be effaced by reason. Can it then
be surprising that the Committee who met to inquire into
the merits of the affair (inflamed as they were by the
incendiaries who set them on) could not put a stop to their
rage, though a great majority of the Committee were of
opinion that the destruction of the Tea, and a publick
acknowledgment of the fault from the parties, was a suffi-
ck'iit atonement for the trespass ? Is it surprising that this
should not appease, when the death or destruction of Mr.
Stewart only could have satiated their vengeance ?

To avert so great a calamity, some of Mr. Stewart's
friends proposed " that the Vessel with the Tea on board,
should immediately be burnt," which was executed almost
as soon as proposed, and the happy expedient had the
desired effect. The mischief they had perpetrated, and
the blaze of the vessel pleased and appeased the popu-
lace, and in some measure, though it may be presumed
not to the extent of their wishes, gratified the malicious
and interested, and saved Mr. Stewart, if not from death
and destruction, at least from ruin, tar, and feathers.

This disturbance happened in the absence of the Gov-
ernour, who was then on his passage from England; but
had he been on the spot it could not have been prevented,
for the civil power in Annapolis, though the capital of
Maryland and residence of the Governour, is unable to
cope with, or curb the fury of an exasperated people.
There are no military in the Province. Amekicanus.

TO THE PUBLICK.

Committee of Inspection Chamber, }
Falmouth, Mass.; April 10, 1775. \

To hold a man up as an object of general detestation, to
deprive him of the benefits that result from society, is dis-
agreeable, is painful ; but, on the other hand, to neglect the
interest of our Country, to disappoint the just expectations
of our constituents, is dishonourable and base. The Com-
mittee of Inspection for the Town of Falmouth, therefore,
come forward, to discharge the duty they owe the publick,
and the trust reposed in them by their fellow-citizens.

On Thursday, the 2d ult., the Sloop John and Mary,
Henry Hughes, master, arrived here from Bristol, sup-
posed to have goods on board for Captain Thomas Coul-
son, of this place ; and as the late Continental Congress
had, by their Association, prohibited the importation of any
goods from Great Britain after the first day of February
last, this Committee, chosen by the said Town of Fal-
mouth to observe the conduct of all persons in said Town
touching said Association, immediately convened, and after
employing some persons to see that nothing was taken out
of said Sloop during their debates, they proceeded to con-
sider the circumstances of the case ; and being informed by
Captain Coulson that said vessel had on board sundry Rig-
ging, Sails, and Stores, sent him by Mr. Garnet, Merchant
in Bristol, for a new Ship lately built here by said Coulson
for said Garnet, the said Committee, after a full and seri-
ous consideration of the matter, gave it as their opinion,
that his taking said Rigging and Sails out of the vessel in
which they arrived, and appropriating them to rig his new
Ship, in order to send her to England, would be a violation
of the Continental Association, and therefore that the said
Rigging, Sails, and Stores, ought forthwith to be sent back
again, without breaking any of the packages thereof.

Of this opinion the said Coulson had due notice, but not
making any preparations to comply therewith, the said
Committee again convened on Tuesday following, viz : the
7th ult. Captain Coulson then attended, agreeable to the
desire of this Committee, and being asked why he had not
sent away the goods, agreeable to the opinion of this Com-
mittee, founded on the aforesaid Association, he said, be-
cause it was not for his interest ; and further said that the
vessel wanted repairs, and therefore was unfit to go to sea,
ami that be did Dot choose to procure another, or to send
back the said Rigging and Sails, otherwise than by rigging

his said new Ship with them, and thus to send them back
in the said new Ship ; but that he would consent to have
them stored at the Committee's risk until the vessel was
repaired, and that then he would re-ship them, and send
them out of the harbour. But being asked whether he
would send them back to Bristol, he declined giving the
Committee any assurance that he would, though he was
willing to send back the two hogsheads of Lines, which
came in said vessel.

This Committee then sent for a Committee of Carpen-
ters, Riggers, and Caulkers, who had been on board to view
her, at the request of a number of the inhabitants of this
Town, and they informed us that the vessel wanted some
repairs, but that, in their opinion, she might be repaired,
fit to return, in about two days, without taking out the
goods. Upon which the Committee passed the following
Resolve, and sent a copy of it to Captain Coulson, viz :

" That seven days be allowed said Coulson, from this
time, to repair said vessel, and to make the necessary pre-
parations for sending her back; and if he does not, at the
end of that term, (wind and weather permitting,) send said
vessel out of this harbour to proceed to Bristol, this Com-
mittee will forthwith cause the truth of the case to be pub-
lished, agreeable to the Continental Association."

At the expiration of said term, viz : on the evening of the
14th ult., the Committee met again, and although a depo-
sition, signed by several persons, some of whom were
merchants, masters of vessels, and ship-carpenters, was
then handed in to this Committee, purporting that said
vessel was unfit to go to sea until the goods were taken out,
and she thoroughly repaired, yet it appeared that Captain
Coulson had not taken due care to get said Sloop repaired,
nor had endeavoured to procure another, in which to re-
ship the goods to Bristol, and would give the Committee
no assurance that he would send them back, in any other
manner than he at first proposed. The Committee then
adjourned to the 15th ult., and then passed the following
Vote, viz :

" That if Captain Coulson will re-ship the aforesaid
goods in some other vessel, and send them back immedi-
ately, without breaking any of the packages, it will be
satisfactory to this Committee."

To this Captain Coulson (who was again desired to at-
tend, to hear the Committee's determination) would not
consent, though one of this Committee offered him a ves-
sel gratis, to carry them to Halifax or Newfoundland.

We, the said Committee of Inspection, do therefore,
agreeable to the directions of the said Continental Con-
gress, as expressed in the said Eleventh Article of their
Association, hereby publish the name of the said Thomas
Coulson, as a violator of the Continental Association.
By order of the Committee :

Enoch Freeman, Chairman.

Committee of Inspection Chamber, )
Falmouth, March 2, 1775. $

At a meeting of the Committee of Inspection, at the
Library Chamber, to determine what ought to be done
with respect to a vessel that arrived here this day from
Bristol, supposed to have goods and merchandise for Cap-
tain Thomas Coulson on board :

Voted, That Mr. Benjamin Mussey, Captain Joseph
McLellan, and Mr. Benjamin Titcomb, be a Committee
to employ some persons to see that no goods are landed
from said vessel during the debates of the Committee of
Inspection, and to desire that Captain Cotdson and the
Master of said vessel would attend this Committee.

Captain Coulson and the Master accordingly attended ;
and being asked if said vessel came from Biistol, and what
she had on board, answered that she did come from Bru-
tal, and had on board Rigging, Sails, and Stores for a new
Ship lately built here by Captain Coulson.

Voted, That Captain Josej)h McLellan, Mr. Jedidiah
Cobb, Mr. Benjamin Mussey, and Mr. Samuel Freeman
be a Committee to go on board said vessel, or employ some
other persons to go on board her, to see whether she has on
board any goods other than the Rigging, Sails, and Stores
for said new Ship.

The meeting was then adjourned to eight o'clock to-
morrow morning, to meet at the Library Chamber, and

313

CORRESPONDENCE, PROCEEDINGS, &tc, APRIL, 1775.

314

that in the mean time the absent members be desired to
attend. —

Falmouth, Maxell 3, 177").

The Committee of Inspection met, pursuant to adjourn-
ment. Present: Enoch Freeman. Esquire, Messrs. Daniel
llsley, Benjamin Titcomb, Enoch Ilsley, John Waitc, Ste-
phen Waiie, Benjamin Mussey, William Owen, Samuel
Knights, Jedidiah Cobb, John Butler, Jabez Jones, Smith
Cobb, Pelctiah March, Pearson Jones, Joseph Noyes,
Samuel Freeman, Joseph McLellan, Thcophilus Parsons.

The question being put, whether Captain Coulson's
taking said Rigging and Sails out of the vessel in which
they arrived, and his appropriating them to rig his new
Ship, in order to send her to England, will be a violation
of the American Association :

After a long and serious debate, it was

Resolved in the affirmative, by a majority of fourteen to
five.

Voted, therefore, That said Rigging, Sails, and Stores
for said new Ship, ought forthwith to be sent back again,
without breaking any of the packages thereof, by a majori-
ty of fourteen to five.

Voted, nemine contradicente, That all other goods and
merchandise that were imported in said vessel ought also
forthwith to be sent back again without breaking any of the
packages thereof.

Voted, That Messrs. Enoch llsley, John Waitc, and
Daniel llsley be a Committee, immediately to inform Cap-
tain Coulson of the result of this Committee, and that they
are now sitting, if he is desirous to attend them.

Captain Coulson attended, and informed the Committee
the vessel in which his Rigging and Sails arrived was so
out of repair, that she was unfit to return back again until
she was repaired, and that in order to repair her the freight
must be taken out.

The meeting was then adjourned to three o'clock, P. M.,
to meet at the same place.

Three o'clock, P. M.

The Committee met, pursuant to adjournment.

Voted, That the Sub-Committees chosen by the first
and second votes of yesterday, be discharged from any fur-
ther service as Sub-Committees.

Voted, That this Committee will exert their utmost en-
deavours to prevent all the inhabitants of this Town from
engaging in any riots, tumults, and insurrections, or attacks
on the private property of any person, as pernicious to the
real interest thereof, as well as injurious to the liberty of
America in general, and that they will, as far as lies in their
power, promote peace and good order, as absolutely neces-
sary to the existence of society.

Ordered, That the result of this Committee, together
with the foregoing vote last passed, be posted up in some
publick place in the Town, signed by the Chairman.

Attest : Theophilus Parsons, Clerk.

London, April 11, 1775.

Assistance to the Americans is rising from a new quar-
ter. The following information maybe depended upon:
a Ship sailed from Stettin last month, loaded with Small
Fire-Arms, Gunpowder, Ball, and Accoutrements, thirty
Field-pieces of a light construction, and eight General Of-
ficers, who have served long in Germany ; three of them
are Messrs. Robeveils, Larafont, and Gurgenstein. The
arms and ammunition are actually paid for by an Ameri-
can agent at Berlin, who went thither from Paris ; but
what the footing is upon which the Officers go, is only con-
jectured. They are Lutherans, and certainly do not go
upon mere hope of preferment. This must be a scheme
of the Prussian Monarch's for disconcerting the Court of
London, with whom he is upon the worst terms.

New-York, April 14, 1775.

By accounts from Staten Island, we learn that the in-
habitants of that place assembled on the 11th instant, in
order to take the sense of the County upon the question,
Whether they would nominate Deputies to concert with
other Deputies in New- York, about the choice of Dele-
gates for the ensuing Congress? When it was almost una-
nimously agreed against sending Deputies.

MEETING OF FREEHOLDERS OF WESTCHESTER COUNTY,
NEW-YORK.
White-Plains, in the County of Westchester, April 11, 177'i.

On the '28th of March last, the following gentlemen
having received letters from the Chairman of the Commit-
tee of tiie City and County of Ncic-York, relative to the
appointment of Deputies for this County, met at this place
for the purpose of devising means for taking the sense of the
County upon the subject, viz : Theodosius Bartow, Esq.,
William Sutton, Esq., Captain Joseph Drake, James Wil-
lis, Benjamin Drake, Moses Drake, Colonel Lewis Mor-
ris, Thomas Hunt, Abraham Legget, James Horton, Jun.,
Esq , Stephen Ward, and Abraham Guion, Esq., who,
having taken the same into consideration, agreed to send
the following notification to the principal freeholders in the
different Towns and Districts in the County, viz :

March 28, 1775.

Sir : A number of gentlemen from different Districts in
the County of Westchester, having this day met at the
White-Plains, to consider of the most proper method of
taking the sense of the freeholders of the said County upon
the expediency of choosing Deputies to meet the Deputies
of the other Counties, for the purpose of electing Delegates
to represent this Colony in the General Congress to be held
at Philadelphia, on the 10th day of May next, are of opinion
that the best way of proceeding for that purpose will be to
have a general meeting of the freeholders of said County.
As this County is very extensive, we take the liberty of
recommending the meeting to be held at the White-Plains,
on Tuesday the 11th day of April next, at 10 o'clock in
the forenoon, at the Court-House, and therefore do desire
you to give notice of the same to all the freeholders in
your District, without exception, as those who do not ap-
pear and vote on that day, will be presumed to acquiesce
in the sentiments of the majority of those who vote.

We are, &.c, &c.

The above notice having been generally given and dis-
tributed, a very numerous body of freeholders of the County
assembled at the Court House at the White-Plains, on
the day appointed, and chose Colonel Lewis Morris for
their Chairman. An inconsiderable number of persons,
(among whom were many tenants not entitled to vote) with
Isaac Wilkins, Esq. and Colonel Phillips at their head,
then appeared ; and Mr. Wilkins, in their behalf, (as he
said,) declared that they would not join in the business of
the day, or have any thing to do with Deputies or Con-
gresses ; but that they came there for the sole purpose of
protesting against such illegal and unconstitutional proceed-
ings ; after which they departed.

The following question was then put to the people by
the Chairman, viz : Whether they would appoint Deputies
for this County, to meet the Deputies of the other Coun-
ties at the City of Neic- York, on the 20th of April in-
stant, for the purpose of electing Delegates to represent
this Colony in the General Congress, to be held at Phila-
delphia on the 10th day of May next ?

To which question they unanimously answered that they
would.

They then appointed the following eight persons, or
a majority of them, to be the Deputies of this County,
for the purpose aforesaid, viz: Colonel Lewis Morris, Ste-
phen Ward, Daniel Drake, Esq., Colonel James Holmes,
John Thomas, Jun. Esq., Jonathan Piatt, Esq., Robert
Graham, Major Philip Van Cortlandt.

The two following Resolves were then unanimously en-
tered into, viz :

Resolved, That the thanks of this body be given to the
virtuous minority of the General Assembly of this Prov-
ince, and particularly to John Thomas and Pierre Van
Cortlandt, Esquires, two of our Representatives, for their
firm attachment to, and zeal on a late occasion, for the
preservation of the union of the Colonies, and rights and
liberties of America; and that this Resolve be communi-
cated by the Chairman to every gentleman of whom that
minority consisted.

Resolved, That the thanks of this County are due to
the Delegates who composed the late Congress, for the
essential services they have rendered to America in gen-
eral ; and that this Resolve be forthwith published.

315

CORRESPONDENCE, PROCEEDINGS, Sic, APRIL, 1775.

316

After the business of the day was thus concluded, the
people gave three huzzas for our gracious Sovereign, and
dispersed quietly without the least disorder.

Lewis MoBJUB, Chairman.

MEETING OF COMMITTEES FOR THE NEW-H AMPSHIBE
(iKANTS.

At a meeting of Committees appointed by a large body
of Inhabitants on the east side of the range of Green
Mountains, held at IVestminster, on the 11th day of April,
1775:

1. Voted, That Major Abijah Lovcjoij be the Modera-
tor of this meeting.

2. Voted, That Doctor Reuben Jones be the Clerk.

3. Voted, as our opinion, That our inhabitants are in
great danger of having their property unjustly, cruelly, and
unconstitutionally taken from them by the arbitrary and
designing administration of the Government of New- York,
sundry instances having already taken place.

4. Voted, as our opinion, That the lives of those inhab-
itants are in the utmost hazzard and imminent danger, un-
der the present administration — witness the malicious and
horrid massacre of the night of the 13th ultimo.

5. Voted, as our opinion, That it is the duty of said in-
habitants, as predicated on the eternal and immutable law
of self-preservation, to wholly renounce and resist the ad-
ministration of the Government of New-York, till such
time as the lives and property of those inhabitants may be
secured by it ; or till such time as they can have opportu-
nity to lay their grievances before his most gracious Ma-
jesty in Council, together with a proper remonstrance
against the unjustifiable conduct of that Government, with
an humble petition to be taken out of so oppressive a ju-
risdiction, and either annexed to some other Government,
or erected and incorporated into a new one, as may appear
best to the said inhabitants, to the royal wisdom and cle-
mency, and till such time as His Majesty shall settle this con-
troversy.

6. Voted, That Colonel John Hazeliinc, Charles
Phelps, Esq., and Colonel Ethan Allen, be a Committee
to prepare such remonstrance and petition for the purpose
aforesaid.

Speech delivered by Captain Solomon Uhhaunauwaun-
mut, the Chief Sachem of the Moheakumnuk Tribe of
Indians residing in Stockbridce, on the 1 \th day of
April, 1775, after silling near two days in Council, it
being an Answer to a Message sent to them by the Con-
gress.

To the Honourable John Hancock, Esq., President of
the Provincial Congress, now sitting at Concord — To be
communicated.

Brothers : We have heard you speak by your Letter;
we thank you for it ; we now make answer.

Brothers: You remember when you first came over the
great waters, 1 was great and you was little — very small.
I then took you in for a friend, and kept you under my
arms, so that no one might injure you ; since that time we
have ever been true friends ; there never has been any
quarrel between us. But now our conditions are changed ;
you are become great and tall ; you reach up to the clouds ;
you are seen all round the world ; and I am become small,
very little ; I am not so high as your heel. Now you take
care of me, and I look to you for protection.

Brothers: I am sorry to hear of this great quarrel be-
tween you and Old England. It appears that blood must
soon be shed to end this quarrel. We never till this day
understood the foundation of this quarrel between you and
the Country you came from.

Brothers: Whenever I see your blood running, you will
soon find me about you to revenge my brothers blood.
Although I am low and very small, 1 will gripe hold of
your enemy's heel, that he cannot run so fast and so light,
as if he had nothing at his heels.

Brothers : You know I am not so wise as you are. there-
fore I ask your advice in what I am now agoing to say. I am
thinking before you come to action, to take a run to the
Westward, and feel the minds of my Indian brothers, the

Si i Nations, and know how they stand, whether they are
on your side, or for your enemies. If 1 find they are
against you, I will try to turn their minds. I think they
will listen to me ; for they have always looked this way
for advice concerning all important news that comes from
the rising of the sun. If they hearken to me you will not
be afraid of any danger from behind you. However their
minds are affected, you shall soon know by me. Now I
think 1 can do you more service in this way, than by march-
ing off immediately to Boston, and stay there (it may be)
a great while before blood runs. Now, as I said you are
wiser than I, I leave this for your consideration, whether I
come down immediately, or wait till I hear some blood is
spilled.

Brothers : I would not have you think by this that we
are falling back from our engagements ; we are ready to
do any thing for your relief, and shall be guided by your
counsel.

Brothers : One thing I ask of you if you send for me to
fight, that you will let me fight in my own Indian way. I
am not used to fight English fashion, therefore you must
not expect I can train like your men. Only to point out
to me where your enemies keep, and that is all I shall want
to know.

TO THE KING.

London, April 12, 1775.

Sire : When the complaints and petitions of injured
subjects are treated with insolence by a profligate Parlia-
ment, and with mockery by an imperious Minister, it is
high time for them to assume a different tone. Your Ma-
jesty must be a great proficient in Courtly accomplishments
to profess astonishment at what you could not but know
full well, from the protesting majority of the independent
Peers, from a hundred loud and honest voices (marvellous
as that may seem) among your own faithful Commons,
besides the many other Petitions from the commercial and
manufacturing parts of the Kingdom, who had long before
avowed their approbation of American resistance, and their
utter abhorrence of the arbitrary and violent measures of
Administration, against what your Majesty calls a rebellious
disposition only, which barely exists in a part of your Colo-
nies. Had an actual rebellion not only existed, but raged
all over America, your Ministers could hardly have spared
more forces from the National defence than are now em-
barked to correct a bad disposition. If your Majesty is
thus severe on ill humours and dispositions, which so much
pains have been taken to excite and inflame, what thunder-
bolts of your royal vengeance will be hurled upon actual
traitors, when you shall discover them — nearer home ?

Your Majesty's " entire confidence in the wisdom of
your Parliament" cannot but be well founded, considering
from whom they have learned and adopted their principles
and resolutions, and thus qualified themselves for the
" great Council of the Nation."

Surely your Majesty does not suppose your good sub-
jects so dull of apprehension, as to believe that your Ame-
rican measures were originally planned and recommended
to your Ministers by Parliament. They are convinced
that the majority of Parliament are too modest, and know
themselves too well, to give advice to Government. They
know that these measures were dictated to Parliament by
the Minister, (who is also dictated to by some body else.)
and for no other purpose but to gain a Parliamentary sanc-
tion to indemnify the Crown and its servants from the con-
sequences of such violent and unconstitutional proceedings.
Therefore, the compliment paid to Parliament on this oc-
casion is but little better founded, or more sincere, than that
made to Great Britain in the next sentence, when your
Majesty declares, that "you will steadily pursue these
measures for the support of her constitutional rights and
commercial interests." Your Majesty, in your great wis-
dom, or rather in the wisdom of your Parliament, is pleased
to take measures a little extraordinary on this great occa-
sion ; which, although very expressive of the violence of
your attachment to our rights and interests, it is feared,
like the fostering of too fond a parent, may overlay them
both. The mode graciously adopted to protect our Com-
merce, by starving or cutting the throats of our Colonists,

317

CORRESPONDENCE, PROCEEDINGS, &c, APRIL, 1775.

318

it is feared will neither increase their population, nor the
Trade or Revenue of Britain.

Your Majesty cannot be supposed to dissemble with or
mock your people in a matter which so nearly concerns
them. We must, therefore, necessarily believe, on the
faith of royalty, that these measures have originated from
Parliament, acting as the great Council of the Nation, and
that they have been planned with no other view than to
" support the constitutional rights, and protect the commer-
cial interests of Great Britain." This is a solemn decla-
ration, made before God and the publick; and it would ill
become your subjects to entertain a doubt of that sincerity
in which your Majesty has been early trained, and of which
your auspicious reign has afforded so many great and sin-
gular instances.

I could wish, however, (that no opening might be left
for invidious censure,) the Ministerial authors of your Ma-
jesty's speeches would endeavour, for the future, not only
to think in character themselves, on the small scale of
knavish craft, but that they would enable their Roval mas-
ter, when he addresses the publick, to speak in character
also.

Conscious of their own evil principles and designs, they
put words into the Royal mouth which would only have
become their own. Thus your Majesty is made to address
your Capital in a low and familiar style, utterly beneath
your dignity as a great King, and your nice feelings as an
honest man. My Lord North might be " astonished
(speaking in character, as a hollow, hypocritical, sneering
Minister) that any of your subjects could be capable of
countenancing a rebellious disposition, unfortunately exist-
ing in some of the Colonies," as such tyrannical and vin-
dictive persons are not ashamed to make actual war upon
a disposition; but a King of Great Britain, conscious of
his own dignity, and speaking with the majesty of truth,
as well as royalty, in answer to so heavy a charge, would
have expressed his astonishment at the daring presumption
of the Petitioners in countenancing rebellion, not at their
being "capable of countenancing a rebellious disposition
only." Which is little better than if your Majesty had
said, " my good friends, I am very sorry you should be so
unkind as to encourage a set of people whom I am obliged
to treat as rebels, although I cannot call them such at pre-
sent ; but in all probability, by the .blessing of God on my
Fleets and Armies, they will deserve that appellation very

to extremities, though their leaders use every measure to
bring them into the field. I have the honour to be, &c.

Thomas Gage.

soon.

In the mean time, as your Majesty's confidence in your
Parliament is almost as great as the people's distrust and
detestation of them, there can be no doubt but by pursuing
the salutary measures they recommend, your Government
will become as respectable, though not so gentle and con-
descending, as your speeches.

Your Majesty will pardon the well meant simplicity of
a true subject, although a plain dealer. Regulus.

GENERAL GAGE TO GOVERNOUR MARTIN, OF NORTH-
CAROLINA.

Boston, April 12, 1775.

Sir: Your letter of the 16th of March, I have had the
pleasure to receive, and am glad to hear that many of the
people in your Province are beginning to find they have
been misled, and that they seem inclined to disengage them-
selves from the arbitrary power of the Continental Con-
gress, and of their Committees. I wish I could say as
much for the people of this Province, who are more cool
than they were, but their leaders, by their arts and artifices,
still keep up that seditious and licentious spirit, that has
led them on all occasions to oppose Government, and even
to acts of rebellion. The late accounts from England have
embarrassed their councils much. They have applied to
the New-England Governments, and doubtless will to
those at the Southward, to assist them, but I hope the mad-
ness of the latter is wearing off", and that they will get no
encouragement from thence.

This Province has some time been, and now is, in the
new-fangled Legislature, termed a Provincial Congress,
who seem to have taken the Government into their hands.
What they intend to do I cannot pretend to say, but they
are much puzzled how to act. Fear in some, and a want
ol inclination in others, will be a great bar to their coming

EXTRACT OF A LETTER FROM THE CHAIRMAN OF THE

committee at falmouth to samuel freeman, dated
april 12, 1775.

Last night we had a letter from the Committee at Bos-
ton, wherein they say they should be extremely uneasy to
find any omission of duty "in behalf of this Province and
the other Colonies, as the eyes of the whole Continent are
upon us. The tools of power wish for an opportunity to
charge us with negligence, and are watching for it, to make
a division between this Province and the other Colonies.
We, therefore, again recommend to you, as our firm opin-
ion, that you conform strictly and religiously to the Associa-
tion of the Continental Congress in every respect, without
favour or affection to any person whatever. We are of
opinion, to suspend the publication of your Resolves re-
specting Captain Coulson, till we hear from you whether
he has complied with the request of the Committee, con-
formable to the Resolution of the Continental Congress."
Coulson no sooner arrived, but the next day had the Canso
Man-of-War up to Town, and his old Bristol Sloop along-
side of his new Ship, taking out the goods. But it seems
he cannot gel any of our people to help him ; and I do
not think he will be able to get his Ship loaded and rigged,
unless he gets the Man-of-War's men to do it. And I hear
that Captain Mowat has been pressing men ; some he re-
leases, and some retains ; and it is suggested by some, that
his design is to supply Captain Coulson with men from his
own Ship. We shall do all we can to prevent any other
person from breaking the Association. I do not think it
will be amiss for you to acquaint some of the Committee
of Inspection in Boston of Captain Coulson's conduct, with
which the People in general, in Town and Country, are
very much dissatisfied.

We rejoice in your zeal and firmness in so trying a time
as this, and we pray God to support you in so good a
cause as the preservation of our liberties, civil and reli-
gious.

EXTRACT OF A LETTER FROM A GENTLEMAN IN ENGLAND
TO HIS CORRESPONDENT IN VIRGINIA.

The sword is drawn here, and the scabbard thrown
away. What are )ou to do? Submission and slavery are
the same. The question then can only be, how shall we
best resist the chains prepared for us ?

Let Virginia, Maryland, and South- Carolina declare
their resolution to stand by the Massachusetts ; let the non-
import be commenced as soon as possible. Were it not
for the import of American Grain, this Country would this
moment be in famine and insurrection. Be vigilant in
keeping the Non-Import and Export Resolutions unviolated
in the smallest degree. Select the best of the Militia,
train and arm them well, and familiarize them to the right of
resistance and the necessity of exerting it; cultivate the fron-
tier Militia and their leaders. Much will depend on them.
It is determined to put you to the trial ; and every thing
that is dear to us depends on your firmness. Remember
that night is the time when the discipline of the Regulars
is least availing, and their artillery useless. One year's
firm observation of your Resolutions must reduce the Min-
istry to the necessity of capitulating. This Country can-
not bear one year's interruption of her Commerce. It is
impossible. A protractive war on your part must enfeeble
her Army, which cannot be recruited but at a vast expense
of time and money. The interruption of commerce brings,
in a year's time, half our Merchants and Manufacturers to
beggary, loads her landed interest with additional publick
taxes and poor's rates, so as to shake every part of the com-
munity to its foundation. Nothing but a miracle can sup-
port them under such an accumulation of calamities. Let
it be your study, therefore, to promote a frugality and in-
dustry in providing against the consequences of the inter-
ruption to you, so as to prevent popular disorders, and keep
the people firm. You have the game in your own hands ;
a little patience, a little endurance, and your victory is sure.
If you conquer in this contest, you will be the freest, the

319

CORRESPONDENCE, PROCEEDINGS, &c, APRIL, 1775.

320

most prosperous and respected people in the world ; if you
submit, the most inexorable yoke that ever galled the neck
of any Nation will be* your lot. The threats thrown out
here against you are fit only for savages. It is impossible
to conceive with wlr.it approbation the House of Commons
heard a Colonel Grant, the same who commanded the ex-
pedition with Colonel Lewis to Fort Da Qutsne, declare,
that he had always treated the Americans as beasts of bur-
den, and that they deserved no better usage, being fit for
nothing else. American fraud, American rapine, Ameri-
can cowardice, and American insolence, are the perpetual
topicks of ministerial declamation. When America is the
question, every idea of justice or mercy seems to be extin-
guished. Your own experience of seven years' ineffectual
supplication will show that their professions of readiness to
hear and redress grievances is a mere mockery.

The very existence of liberty on the face of this earth ;
the precious possession of it to you and your posterity from
generation to generation ; the avoiding the most cruel bond-
age and thraldom that ever ground the faces of a miserable
people, all depend upon a year or two's exertion of virtue,
fortitude, and forbearance in America. How infinite the
purchase, and how cheap ! Orders are certainly sent to
seize particular persons. Reprisals will surely be made ;
but remember it is a state of war, and therefore be guard-
ed. It is not the way to conquer the lion to run into his
mouth.

1 have the greatest inclination to come over. And yet
I think I can be more serviceable here ; nor do I imagine
myself in less danger. On the contrary, 1 am certain of
the intention of destroying certain American advocates
here, when the temper of the times render it safe. Adieu.

Williamsburgh, Virginia, April 13, 1775.

By the last prints from England, we find that the pro-
ceedings of the General Congress have had a strange effect
upon the minds of the people in that quarter. Some
esteem and applaud them as a production of a most mas-
terly nature ; whilst others, swayed by the influence of the
ministerial party, and their votaries, declare them not even
worthy of notice ; that the sentiments contained therein
spring merely from a distempered imagination, and that
they are naught but the effusions of wild, intolerable enthu-
siasm. But our wonder, on this account, must immediately
cease when we consider that America is not yet without
her enemies, who now reside within her territories ; ene-
mies who, notwithstanding they are wholly and entirely
dependant upon her for subsistence, that would pleasingly
aid, if we may judge from their conduct, in showering
every misery upon this unhappy Country.

In the last English paper that we have received are the
following paragraphs from some of those pious and deserv-
ing advocates (who unfortunately reside in Boston) for the
meek and gentle measures of Administration ; they are
termed authentick, and are addressed to persons of great
consequence in England:

" The residence of the General Congress at Philadel-
phia has entirely debauched the minds of the people of
that place, who were heretofore the last to make objection
to any measure of Government, but are now as violent as
any other of the Colonies. I am informed by a gentle-
man in whom I can confide, that every resolution of the
Congress will be strictly adhered to. No place on the
Continent has shown so great an inclination to disobey the
dictates of the General Congress as New-York.

" The Provincial Congress thought it prudent to decamp
soon after the arrival of the Scarborough and Asia, and
are removed to Worcester from Cambridge. The proceed-
ings have been kept so close that nothing has transpired
but what they have put in the papers themselves.

" Associations are forming in several Towns in the coun-
try by the well-thinking and better sort of people for their
defence, who have been till now obliged to do just as the
rabble dictated, very contrary to their own sentiments.

" Our good General has his hands full ; you are not un-
acquainted with the people he has to deal with. If they
are suffered to go on, adieu to all happiness in this Coun-
try ; but surely the lion will be roused at last. Notwith-
standing their boasted numbers, a determined frown even
will make them tremble."

COMMITTEE Of YORK-TOWN, YORK COUNTY, PENNSYLVANIA,
TO JOHN HANCi.CK. AND THOMAS CI SUING.

York-Town, April 13, 1775.

Honoured Friends and Countrymen : Sorry are
we to hear that the hand of oppression still bears hard
on your City, and that the distresses of your poor are
not yet alleviated. If your misfortunes and sufferings
could be divided, the inhabitants of this County would
cheerfully bear a part. This, it seems, cannot be done ;
your destined Town must stand the shock alone. We
want words to express the high sense we have of your
conduct and virtue ; few men in the world would have
opposed despotism, and stood the torrent of ministerial
vengeance with so much steadiness, intrepidity, and resolu-
tion, as the inhabitants of your Town and Country have
done. You have true notions of liberty. You have pur-
chased it. You ought to enjoy it. The noble stand made
by the Province of Massachusetts-Bat/, if faithfully ad-
hered to, has laid the foundation for establishing American
liberty on the most firm basis. The other Colonies will
be equally gainers by a favourable determination of the
contest, and will not desert you in the time of danger;
they will doubtless grant you the most effectual assistance.
This County, upon the earliest intelligence of your dis-
tress, forwarded subscriptions for the poor of Boston. Grain
was generally subscribed ; we expected to have sent it
last fall, but could not collect it at any seaport before the
winter season came on, so that the shipping of it was post-
poned till the spring. Upon the meeting of the Com-
mittee of this County in February last, shortly after the
receipt of the King's Speech to the Parliament, it was
thought that it would not be safe to send Grain. The
Committee, therefore, determined to convert the Grain into
cash, and remit the same in Specie or Bills of Exchange
to you. Your poor have suffered much by this Resolution,
as the price of Wheat is greatly fallen. The subscriptions
of but a part of the County are yet come in. We send
you the sum of £246 8s. \0d., to be remitted to you in
Bills of Exchange or Specie, by Messrs. Jonathan B.
Smith and John Mitchell, Merchants of Philadelphia,
which be pleased to distribute among our poor and unhap-
py countrymen in your Town, or in its neighbourhood, in
such manner as you shall think proper. As there are a
few disaffected people in this Province, we must trouble
you to publish the receipt of the donations as is mentioned
in the enclosed paper.* Your friends here are numerous,
and most heartily interested themselves in your favour. As
soon as the rest of the subscriptions in this County are
paid, we shall cheerfully remit the same to you.

We wish you a speedy relief from all your sufferings,
and are, gentlemen, with the greatest respect, your real
friends and most obedient humble servants,

Jas. Smith, Pres't Com.
Geo. Eichelbergeb, Geo. Fuvin,
David Grieh, Jos. Donaldson,

Michael Dowdle, Michael Schmyser.
Michael Swope, BalzordSpangler,

Peter Reel, John Hay.

Thomas Hartley,
Committee of Correspondence of York County.

To John Hancock and Thomas Cushing, Esq'rs, Committee for receiv-
ing and distributing tho Donations for the Poor of Boston.

* The Committee of Boston received the sum of JC246 8«. 1<V.. va'-
ued at the rato of Pennsylvania money, being donations from a part of
tho County of York, in the Province of Pennsylvania, to the Poor of
Boston and its neighbourhood ; subscribed as follows :

York-Town £124 10s. OJ.

Heidelbtirgh Township 36 17

Oermany Township IS I

Mantrcim, by the hands of Adam Eichelberger 5 15 6

by do. of Michael Karl 5 9 9

by do. of David Newman 3 16 3

Manchester Township, by the hands of Michael Schmyser. 6 12 1
by do. ot Simon Coppenheffer 2 17 7

by do. of Jacob Hark 6 It} 6

Shrewsbury Township 12 0 0

Dover Township 6 9 0

Fown 6 0 0

Codorus Township 2 16 C

Durer Township 62$ Bushels of Wheat, J Bushel of Rye ;
Manchester Township 39$ Bushels of Wheat ; Paradise
Township 20 Bushels of Wheat; Codorus Township S
Bushels of Wheat and J Bushel of Rye ; York Township
4 Bushels of Wheat. Part of which grain has been made

into Flour and sold here .-1G 13 3

-t-246 H 10

321

CORRESPONDENCE, PROCEEDINGS, fcc, APRIL, 1775.

322

PROTEST OF INHABITANTS AND FREEHOLDERS OF WEST-
CHESTER COUNTY, NEW-YORK.

County of Westchester, April 13, 1775.

Mr. Rivington : Be pleased to insert the following, and
you will oblige a number of your friends and subscribers.

On Thursday, the 11th instant, a very respectable num-
ber of freeholders and inhabitants of the County of West-
chester, assembled at the White Plains, in the said County,
agreeable to the notice given, that their sentiments might
be known concerning the choice of a Committee to meet
their Committee in the City of Neiv- York, for the purpose
of choosing Delegates to represent this Colony in the next
Continental Congress.

The friends of order and Government met at the house
of Captain Hatfield; those who were for a Committee,
put up at another publick house in the Town. About twelve
o'clock, word was brought to the gentlemen at Captain Hat-
field's, that the opposite party had already entered upon
the business of the day ; upon which they immediately
walked down to the Court-House, although not half of
their friends, who were expected, had yet appeared, where
they found the other company collected in a body. The
numbers on each side seemed to be nearly equal, and both
together might amount to two hundred, or, at most, two
hundred and fifty. The friends to Government then declared,
that as they had been unlawfully called together, and for
an unlawful purpose, they did not intend to contest the
matter with them by a poll, which would be tacitly ac-
knowledging the authority that had summoned them thither ;
but that they came only with a design to protest against all
such disorderly proceedings, and to shew their detestation
of all unlawful Committees and Congresses. They then
declared their determined resolution to continue steadfast in
their allegiance to their gracious and merciful Sovereign,
King George the Third ; to submit to lawful authority ; and
to abide by and support the only true representatives of
the people of this Colony — the General Assembly. Then
giving three huzzas, they returned to Captain Hatfield's,
singing, as they went, with a loyal enthusiasm, the grand
and animating song of " God save great George our King."
"Long live our noble King," &,c, &c.

At their return, finding that many of their friends had
arrived during their absence, and that many still kept
coming in, they proceeded to draw up and sign the follow-
ing Declaration, which they seemed to do with as much pa-
triotick zeal as ever warmed the hearts of true and faithful
subjects, and afterwards dispersed to their different habita-
tions.

" We, the subscribers, freeholders and inhabitants of the
County of Westchester, having assembled at the White
Plains, in consequence of certain advertisements, do now
declare, that we met here to declare our honest abhorrence
of all unlawful Congresses and Committees, and that we
are determined, at the hazard of our lives and properties,
to support the King and Constitution ; and that we acknow-
ledge no Representatives but the General Assembly, to
whose wisdom and integrity we submit the guardianship of
our rights, liberties, and privileges."

Frederick Philips, Roger Purdy, Jun.,

Isaac Wilkin8, Gilbert Pugsley,

Samuel Seabury, Abraham Leadu,

Luke Babcock, Benjamin Brown,

Jona. Fowler, Judge, Isaac Kecd,
Caleb Fowler, Judge, Aaron Buis,
Jona. P. Horton, Esq., Moses Weymen,
William Sutten, Esq., Israel Underhill,
David Oakly, Esq., John Baizley,
Benja'n Fowler, Esq., David Oakly, Jun.,
William Davids, Esq., Isaac Smith,
Win. Anderson, Esq., John Hyatt,
Wm. Barker, Esq., Hczckiah Cudney,

Capt. Abram. Hatfield, Abraham Odall,
N. Underhill, Mayor, Thomas Lawrence,
George Cornwall, Esq., John Seyseon,

Philip Pell, Esq.,
Joshua Pell,
James Pell,
Edward Poll,
John Hunt,
Gilbert Horton,
Adrian Lcforge,
Joshua Gidney,
Jonathan Gidney,
Lieut. Jona. Purdy,
Solomon Gidney,
Joseph Bude,
James Whitmore,
Moses Williams,

Fourth Series

Jeremiah Travies,
Griffen Curey,
Isaac Forsheu,
Gabriel Requeaw,
Samuel Webb,
Benjamin Downing,
Gabriel Archer,
(glial Secord,
Thomas Veal,
James Peirce,
Edward Bugbe,
David Haight,
Sylvanius Lyon,
Daniel Haight,

— Vol. ii.

Jonathan Budd,
John Whetmore,
Wm. Underhill,
Thomas Brown,
Lieut. Isaac Gidney,
N ehcmiah Tompkins,
Henry Leforge,
Everet Brown,
Benjamin Beyoa,
Barthol'w Gidney,
Josiah Brown,
Seth Purdy,
Peter Huggeford,
Jacob Gidney,
John Loce,
Elnathan Appleby,
John Baker,
Jonathan Underhill,
James McChain,
Benjamin Soacord,
Joshua Hunt,
Betts Chattcrdon,
William Landrine,
Enoch Hunt,
Peter Come,
Dennis Kennedy,
James Hains,
Andrew Bainton,
Hezekiah Simmons,
Nathaniel Tompkins,

John Haight,
Isaac Brown,
Phillip Kelly,
James Hains,
Joseph Hains, Jun.,
James Hains, Jun.,
Matthew Hains,
Bartholomew Hains,
Gilbert Hains,
John Hains,
Elijah Hains,
Lieut. Solo'n Fowler,
Isaac Williams,
John McCollum,
Joseph Clark,
Joseph Oakly,
Caleb Ferris,
Capt. Benja'n Grift'en,
Capt. Joshua Purdy,
James Mott,
Lieut. W. Laensberry,
Lieut. Samuel Purdy,
John Rustin,
Nathan Osburn,
Philemon Halstead,
Daniel Purdy,
John Crab,
Izrahiah Whetmore,
Capt. Abso'm Gidney,
David Haight,
John Brown,
Jasper Stivers,
Peter McFarthing,
Joshua Purdy, Jun.,
Haccaliah Purdy, Jun.,
James Tompkins,
Michael Chatterton,
Elnathan Taylor,
Gilbert Theal,
William Sexon,
Thomas Champeniers,
John Champeniers,
William Griffin,
Isaac Gidney,
John Bates,
Joseph Haviland,
Eleazer Hart,
Timothy Whetmore,
James Hunt,
Joseph Parker,
Joshua Barns,
Joseph Purdy,
John Park,
Samuel Purdy,
Gilbert Purdy,
James Chatterton,
John Dewsenburgh,
Thomas Cromwell,
Solomon Horton,
Peter Bussing, t
Peter Bussing, Jun.,
James Knefren,
Nath'l Underhill, Jun.,
Philip Fowler,
John McFarthing,
John Tompkins,
Joseph Hart,
Jacob Post,
Joseph Gidney,
James Baxtor,
John Hart,
Cornelius Loosee,
Jesse Park,

The following persons, not being able to attend at the
Plains, requested, by their friends, that their names might
be added to the list of protesters, viz :

John Hunt, Esq., Philip Palmer, Esq., John Hitchcock,

Jeremiah Hitchcock, William Bond, Joseph Bond.

The foregoing account is strictly true, as can be proven
by the testimony (or, if necessary, by the affidavits) of a
number of persons of the most unquestionable character in
this County. What, then, must we think of such persons
as have propagated a report, that the friends of Government
were, upon this occasion, out-numbered five to one, and that
many of the persons whose names were subscribed to the
foregoing Declaration, were not on that day present at the

« North-Castle, May 8, 1775.— Mr. Rimngton : In your paper late-
ly I saw my name to a Protest. I never signed it, but went into Cap.
tain Hatfield's house, and was asked whether I was a Whig or a Tory ?
I made answer, that I did not understand the meaning of those words,
but was for liborty and peace. Upon which some body put down my
name. Now, sir, I desire you will print this, to show the world that I
have not deserved to be held up in the light of a protoster.

Jeremiah Hunter.

+ That our names were not subscribed to the Protest of Wettehetter,
either by ourselves, or our orders, or permission, directly or indirectly,
is certified by us, each for himself. Peter Bussing.

May 4, 1775. Joan Bosuns,

t Mr. Iiirington : I did sign a Protost which was printed in your paper ;
but I did so because I was told that the intent of signing it was to show
that I was for the liberties of the Country. Samuel Baker.

John Williams,
Joseph Purdy,
Ezekial Halstead,
John Hunt, Jun.,
Isaac Purdy,
Elijah Purdy,
Abraham Loosee,
Isaac Tompkins,
William Gray,
Nathaniel Merit,
Joseph Paulding,
Hondricus Storm,
Francis Secord,
John Parker,
Gilbert Hatfield,
Gabriel Purdy,
Alexander Hains,
Benjamin Ogdcu,
Thomas Meritt,
Gilbert Bates,
John Gidney,
Stephen Amode,
Israel Secord,
John Arnode,
David Purdy,
David Blecher,
Jordon Downing,
Levi Devoe,
Abraham Acker,
Corn. Van Tassell,
Elisha Meritt,
Jacob Schureman,
Joseph Appleby,
John Tompkins, Jun.,
Job Hadden, Jun.,
Patrick Cary,
James Hart,
Gilbert Ward,
Joseph Hart,
Monmouth Hart,
William Dunlap,
Joshua Ferris,
Timothy Purdy,
James Macquire,
James Regnaw,
Daniel Shadin,
Samuel Purdy,
Sylvanus Purdy,
William Dalton,
David Davids,
Elijah Purdy, Jun.,
Elijah Tomkins,
Daniel Jerow,
Charles Lawrence,
Joseph Purdy, Jun.,
James Snillin, Jun.,
Thomas Valentine,
Gilbert Valentine,
Abraham Rich,
Andrew Gerow,
Gilbert Hunter,
Lieut. Peter Bonnett,
Samuel Sneeden,
Peter Fashee,
Jesse Lawrence,
William Sneeden,
Lieut. Daniel Knap,
Solomon Dean,
Charles Vincent, Sr.,
Lieut. Thomas Hyatt,
James Gidney,
Wm. Woodward,

Caleb Archer,
Benjamin Bugbe,
Francis Purdy,
William (Well,
Israel Hunt,
Thomas Tompkins,
Frederick Underbill,
Peter Post,
Benjamin McCord,
John Williams,
John Ackerman,
Peter Rusting,
Thomas Barker,
Jeremiah Hunter,*
Abraham Storm,
Peter Jenning,
Isaac Merritt,
Edward Merritt,
John Gale,
John Smith,
Roger Purdy.
James Hart, Jun.,
Jona. Purdy, Jun.,
Monmouth Hart, Jr.,
Christopher Purdy,
Gilbert Purdy,
Edw'd Merritt, Jun.,
Elijah Miller,
Henry Disborough,
Benjamin Hunt,
Elnathan Hunt,
William Van Wart,
Abraham Storm,
Thomas Berry,
Lancaster Underbill,
Charles Merritt,
Benjamin Underhill,
Bcnj. Griffin, Jun.,
Jeremiah Coone,
John Hall,
James Angevine,
Jacob Coone,
Jer. Anderson, Jr.,
Gilbert Williams,
Wm. Barker, Jun.,
Gideon Arden,
William Field,
Joseph Purdy,
George Storm,
Jacob Vermiller,
Samuel Heusted,
Barthol'w Underhill,
Lieut. John Warner,
Nathaniel Purdy,
Isaac Bennett,
Samuel Baker,!
John Cornwell,
John Storm,
Andrew Fowler,
Joshua Secord,
George French,
John Underhill,
Caleb Gidney,
Wm. Underhill, Jun.,
James Hill,
William Watkins,
John Rustin,
Richard Baker,
William Ascough,
Bishop Heustice,
James Miller,
Phineas Hunt.

21

828

CORRESPONDENCE, PROCEEDINGS, &c, APRIL, 1775.

324

White Plaint 1 They must be conscious to themselves
that they have spread abroad a falsehood, and they are here-
by called upon, if they dare, to set their names to those
assertions.

In what manner those gentlemen, who chose the Com-
mittee at the Plains, proceeded, we cannot positively say ;
but this we can declare with truth, that we do not believe
they can produce to the publick the names of a hundred
and fifty persons who voted for a Committee thai day, and
we are verily persuaded that they did their utmost to make
their party as numerous as possible. How then can they
justify their choice of a Committee? Or how can they
presume to impose upon the world, and to insult the loyal
County of Westchester in so barefaced a manner ?

It is well known here, that two-thirds at least of the in-
habitants of this County are friends to order and Govern-
ment, and opposed to Committees and all unlawful combi-
nations; and it will be made apparent to the world that
they are so, as soon as certain Resolves, now signing freely
by the people, shall be ready for publication. And one prin-
cipal reason why the friends to Government did not assem-
ble in greater numbers than they did, on Tuesday last, was,
that many of them had already, by signing those Resolves,
testified their loyalty to the King, their attachment to the
Constitution, their enmity to Committees, and their acqui-
escence in the prudent measures taken by the Assembly
in the late session, for accommodating the unhappy differ-
ence between the Mother Country and the Colonies, and
consequently thought they had done their duty.

The Committee that was chosen may, with some kind
of propriety, be said to represent those particular persons
who chose them ; but how they can be denominated the
Representatives of the County of Westchester, who, in
genera], abhor Committees and Committee-men, and are
determined to take no steps that may lead them into rebel-
lion, we cannot conceive. Certainly the friends to Govern-
ment, who were collected at Captain Hatfield's, had a
better right, from their number, to determine that there
should be no Committee, than the opposite party had to
appoint one ; and might, with much greater propriety, be
said to shew the sense of the County than the few who
acted without authority, and in direct opposition to Govern-
ment and to the determinations of our worthy Assembly;
and we doubt not but the impartial publick will consider the
matter in this light, and not esteem the act of a few indi-
viduals, unlawfully assembled, as the act (which it most
assuredly is not) of the very respectable, populous, and
loyal County of Westchester.

TO THE PUBLICK.

Morrisiana, May 7, 1775.

A very extraordinary paper, called a Protest against the
proceedings of the Freeholders of the County of West-
chester, relative to the election of Deputies for the late
Convention, and said to have been subscribed by the seve-
ral persons whose names are printed with it, was published
in Mr. Rivington and Gaine's Gazette a few weeks ago.

By whom this performance was given to the publick is
uncertain ; and being as little distinguished by decency as
by truth, there is reason to suspect the author's name will
remain a secret.

The falsities contained in this representation are too fla-
grant to impose upon any person in this Colony ; and
nothing but the apprehension of its gaining credit in other
parts of the world would have induced me to have made
it the subject of animadversion,

I shall pass over the many little embellishments with
which the author's fancy has endeavoured to decorate his
narrative ; nor is it necessary to call in question the reality
of that loyal enthusiasm by which it is said those good
people were influenced ; and I really wish that had been
the fact, because when inconsistencies and fooleries result
from inebriety or enthusiasm, they merit our pity, and
escape indignation and resentment.

Much pains, I confess, were on that day taken to make
temporary enthusiasts, and with other more exhilarating
spirit than the spirit of loyalty.

To give the appearance of dignity to these curious and
very orderly protesters, the author has been very mindful
to annex every man's addition to his name, upon a pre-

sumption, perhaps, that it would derive weight from the
title of Mayor, Esquire, Captain, Lieutenant, Judge, ike.

But it is not easy to conceive why the publisher should
be less civil to the clergy, than to the gentry and common-
alty. Samuel Seabury and Luke Babcock, certainly ought
not to have been sent into the world floating on a news-
paper in that plain way; the one is the "Reverend Mr.
Samuel Seabury, Rector of the united parishes of East
and ll'cstchester, and one of the missionaries for propaga-
ting the Gospel (and not politicks) in foreign parts," &,c,
&tc. The other is the " Reverend Mr. Luke Babcock,
who preaches and prays for Mr. Philipse and his tenants,
at Philipseburgh."

In this formidable catalogue of three hundred and twelve
sober and loyal protesters, there are not less than one hun-
dred and seventy, who, after the most diligent inquiry, I
cannot find have the least pretensions to a vote ; and indeed
many of them are lads under age.

Their names are as follows: —

Samuel Seabury,
Luke Babcock,
Benj. Fowler, Esq.,
Joshua Pull,
Edward Pell,
John Hunt,
Gilbert Horton,
Adrian Liforge,
Moses Williams,
Philip Kelly,
James Hains, Jun.,
Matthew Hains,
Bartholomew Hains,
John Mains,
Elijah Hains,
Joseph Clark,
Joseph Oakly,
James Mott,
Daniel Purdy,
John Crab,
Izrahiah Whetmore,
Absalom Gidncy,
John Brown,
Jasper Stivers,
Peter McFarthing,
Joshua Purdy, Jun.,
Hacaliah Purdy, Jun.,
James Tomkins,
Gilbert Theal,
William Sexen,
Thomas Champeniers,
John Champeniers,
Eleazer Hart,
James Hunt,
Joseph Parker,
Joshua Barns,
John Park,
Samuel Purdy,
Gilbert Purdy,
James Chatterton,
Thomas Cromwell,
Solomon Horton,
Nath. Underhill, Jun.,
Philip Fowler,
John McFarthing,
Jacob Post,
James Baxter,
John Hart,
Cornelius Loseo,
Jesse Park,
Roger Purdy, Jun,,
Gilbert Pugsley,
Abraham Ledcau,
Benjamin Brown,
Aaron Buis,
John Baizley,
David Oakley, Jun.,

Isaac Smith,
John Hyatt,
Abraham Odell,
Thomas Lawrence,
John Seyson,
Isaac Forsheu,
Gabriel Requeaw,
Gabriel Archer,
Elias Secord,
James Peirce,
Edward Bugbe,
Daniel Haight,
John Hunt, Jun.,
Abraham Losee,
Isaac Tomkins,
Joseph Paulding,
Henricus Storm,
Francis Secord,
John Parker,
Gilbert Bates,
David Purdy,
David Bleeker,
Jordon Downing,
Corn. Van Tassell,
Joseph Appleby,
Patrick Cary,
Gilbert Ward,
William Dunlap,
Joshua Ferris,
Timothy Purdy,
James McQuire,
James Regnaw,
Samuel Purdy,
Sylvanus Purdy,
William Dalton,
Elijah Tomkins,
Charles Lawrence,
Joseph Purdy, Jun.,
James Sniffin, Jun,,
Peter Bonet,
Peter Fashee,
Jesse Lawrenoe,
William Sniden,
Solomon Dean,
Thomas Hyatt,
William Woodward,
John Whitmore,
William Underhill,
Nehomiah Tomkins,
Henry Leforge,
Evert Brown,
Benjamin Beyea,
John Loce,
Elnathan Appleby,
John Baker,
Jonathan Underhill,
James McChain,

Joshua Hunt,
Betts Chatterdon,
William Landrim,
Dennis Kennedy,
James Hains,
Andrew Bainton,
Nathaniel Tomkins,
Caleb Archer,
Benjamin Bugbe,
Francis Purdy,
Wilham Odell,
Israel Hunt,
Thomas Tomkins,
Frederick Underhill,
Peter Post,
Benjamin McCord,
John Williams,
John Ackcman,
Peter Rusting,
Jeremiah Hunter,
Abraham Storm,
Peter Jenning,
John Gale,
John Smith,
James Hart, Jun.,
Jonathan Purdy, Jr.,
Monmouth Hart, Jr.,
Christopher Purdy,
Gabriel Purdy,
Edward Merrilt, Jr.,
Henry Disborough,
William Van Wart,
Abraham Storm,
Thomas Berry,
Charles Mcrritt,
Benjamin Griffin,
James Angerine,
Jere. Anderson, Jr.,
William Barker, Jr.,
Gideon Arden, Jr.,
Joseph Purdy,
George Storm
Jacob Vermiller,
Samuel Huested,
John Warner,
John Storm,
Joshua Secord,
John Underhill,
Wm. Underhill, Jr.,
James Hill,
William Watkins,
Richard Baker,
Bishop Hustice,
Jeremiah Hitchcock,
William Bond,
Samuel Sniden.

Of the others who are Freeholders, many also hold
lands at will of Colonel Philipse; so that the truth really
is, that very few independent Freeholders objected to the
appointment of Deputies. Lewis Morris.

FOR THE MASSACHUSETTS GAZETTE.

Boston, April 13, 1775.
My worthy Friends and Fellow- Countrymen :

The charms of power are very intoxicating and bewitch-
ing. Mankind are naturally inclined to usurp authority
over their fellow-men, whenever an opportunity presents ;
and it may be generally observed, that when their right to
it is most questionable, their exereise of it is most wanton
and unreasonable. This may be easily accounted for, as
they fear its duration will be but short, and therefore are
disposed to leave a testimonial of their having enjoyed it.
In no instance do we see this truth more strongly verified,

325

CORRESPONDENCE, PROCEEDINGS, &<-., APRIL, 1775.

326

than in the conduct of the late American Continental
Congress, who, in most of their proceedings, have ex-
ceeded the powers delegated to them, and in still more
have counteracted the design of their appointment. That
there are some grievances, or rather, that the time is come
explicitly to define and settle the rights of the Americans,
and the hounds of Parliamentary authority, will be denied
by none who wish well to Great Britain and her Colonies.
But to demand too much of a Nation that is wealthy, pow-
erful, and brave, that we may obtain enough, discovers a
childish petulance and frowardness, tending much more to
irritate and inflame, than to soften and appease. She will,
like a kind parent, correct our insolence, and reduce us to
due subjection, and then allow us every indulgence that
we ought reasonably to desire. As it is not her interest,
so we can never suppose it her inclination, to injure or op-
press us ; but we may be equally satisfied that she will
never see her just and constitutional authority abused and
trampled on.

We cannot wonder, then, that the conduct of the Con-
gress is so displeasing and provoking to Great Britain,
when, among the articles of complaint, they have inserted
matters which concerned them no more than the mandates
of the Great Mogul, or the edicts of the King of France;
matters which, if true, even in their very extensive con-
struction, afford no real ground of uneasiness ; matters
which discover more a wanton exercise of their usurped
authority, than a wish or inclination to restore harmony and
peace between Great Britain and her Colonies. Indeed,
when we review their proceedings, the manifest intention,
tendency, and complexion of them force us to make a
construction over which charity and candour would wish
to throw a veil, if it was not too plain to mistake it, being
written in the most legible characters. They have pre-
cluded every hope of accommodation, by the exorbitancy
of their demands, and the illegality of the measures they
have adopted. They have sacrificed their honour, hones-
ty, and reputation, to a lawless, ambitious thirst of inde-
pendence, and have purchased the worthless, transitory
shouts and eclat of the restless and seditious multitude, at
the expense of that lasting and satisfactory esteem and ap-
plause of the virtuous and the good, which alone ought to
have been the object of their wishes, and the end of all
their pursuits. The propriety of these observations will
be apparent, in the consideration of the fifteenth and last
general article of grievance, which, like the famed Cerberus
of old, abounds with various sources of complaint.

" In the last session of Parliament an Act was passed
for blocking up the Harbour of Boston ; another empower-
ing the Governour of the Massachusetts-Bay to send per-
sons indicted for murder in that Province, to another Col-
ony, or even to Great Britain, for trial, whereby such of-
fenders may escape legal punishment ; a third for altering
the chartered Constitution of Government in that Province ;
and a fourth for extending the limits of Quebeck, abolish-
ing the English, and restoring the French Laws, whereby
great numbers of British freemen are subject to the latter,
and establishing an absolute Government, and the Roman
Catholick Religion throughout those vast regions that bor-
der on the westerly and northerly boundaries of the free
Protestant English settlements; and a fifth for the better
providing suitable quarters for Officers and Soldiers in His
Majesty's service in North America." The Boston Port
Act, when it first arrived, filled all parties with astonish-
ment and surprise ; the peculiarity of the mode of punish-
ment ; the severity with which it was attended ; the suffer-
ings inflicted thereby on many innocent individuals, at first
raised a suspicion of the justice, equity, and policy of the
British Nation ; but on a nearer view, and more mature
consideration of the spirit and design of the Act, we plainly
discovered that, in the midst of judgment they had remem-
bered mercy. The authority of Parliament had been most
iniquitously and flagrantly abused, insulted, and opposed,
by the destruction of a large quantity of Tea, the private
property of the East-India Company, by a number of the
inhabitants of the Town of Boston and the adjacent Towns,
in the most riotous and daring manner. This Tea was sent
here in consequence of a particular Act of Parliament, em-
powering the East-India Company to do it, merely for the
regulation of Trade ; as the Dutch Tea was smuggled in by
the way of the Northern Colonies, in such quantities, and

so cheap, as totally destroyed the sale of the English Tea,
which, by being sold at publick auction in London to the
merchant there, and by him with his advance upon it, to
the merchant here; by the latter with his advance, to the
retailer, and by him with his profits upon it, to the con-
sumer, was raised to such a price as gave the Dutch Com-
pany the sole advantage of that article of commerce, as it
came from them without any of these impositions, or the
payment of any duty upon it.

We all profess to be subject to the Acts for the regula-
tion of Trade ; for this purpose solely was this Act made ;
by it no new duty was imposed, but some heavy restric-
tions taken off, so that the destruction of the Tea could be
considered as arising only from the most wanton and unrea-
sonable desire of throwing off all subjection to the Parent
State, and setting up for independence. Proportionate,
therefore, to the criminality and atrocious nature of the of-
fence, might we reasonably suppose the punishment would
be. Not only the private property of the East-India
Company had been destroyed, but the honour and author-
ity of the Nation had been injured and violated. The
former was to be compensated, and the latter to be satisfied
and repaired. The inhabitants of Boston and the other
towns concerned, could not be more generally and imme-
diately affected by any other way whatever. It will here
be said it is hard for the innocent to suffer with the guilty ;
but the answer is obvious : the offenders were disguised
and unknown ; no one appeared at the time to oppose it ;
all might, therefore, be considered as involved in the guilt
in some measure. The friends of Government, by their
silence and inactivity in the first of these troubles, when
they might have prevented the mischiefs that have since
ensued, and the daring outrage which was now the cause of
their punishment, had they properly exerted themselves,
have therefore little reason to complain of the disadvan-
tages they suffer, or the loss they sustain on this account.
However, admitting they were quite innocent, and had
done their duty on this occasion, it should be remembered,
that as in general calamities of lightning, earthquakes, fam-
ine, war, and pestilence, inflicted by Heaven on mankind,
there is no respect to persons, the wicked and the good are
equally exposed and actually affected ; so in States and
Kingdoms in this world, when general punishments of a
people are found necessary, it is very difficult, if not im-
possible, to discriminate and screen the innocent from the
misfortunes which the guilty suffer. But in this instance,
as was hinted above, with such wisdom, with so much len-
ity was the Port Act constructed, that the severity of its
operation depended entirely upon the reasonable compliance
or obstinacy of those who were to suffer by it. It was an
indispensable act of common justice to pay for the Tea
that had been destroyed, or it was equally just to punish
those who were concerned in doing it. It has been said,
that had the Act been conditional, to take place only if
the terms were not complied with, there would have been
some reason in it ; no one would have complained ; but
not to be able to prevent the execution of it. had they
been disposed to submit to the requisitions, was a degree of
rigour without an example. Let us attend to the circum-
stances. It was made to take place the first of June ; four-
teen days after that were allowed for any vessels to fit out
and sail ; upon payment for the Tea being made, and some
other trifling matters complied with, and a certificate pro-
cured from the Governour of the fulfilment of the terms
of the Act, power was given to His Majesty in privy
Council to suspend its execution. The Act arrived near
the beginning of May, if I recollect right. Now, as the
Spring ships are generally all arrived before the time that
the Act was to take place, it would have little effect for
some time after that upon foreign importation. If the Tea
had been immediately paid for, and the requisite certificate
procured, which might easily have been done, and trans-
mitted home, the operation of the Act might have ceased
at once ; as it seems to have been particularly provided for
this purpose, that the King in Council might suspend it,
that so no delay might be occasioned by calling the Par-
liament together to repeal it. Orders for Fall goods might
have been sent at the same time, and the Fall ships might
have returned at their usual time, into an open and free
Port ; so that by a prudent conduct, the trade with Great
Britain might not have been interrupted at all ; other

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828

branches might have suffered a temporary damage, but it
would have been trilling, as by the last of August we
raight have had the news of the Port's being open again.
So that by the folly, injustice, and madness alone of the
popular leaders, has this Act been attended with the dis-
tresses and inconveniences which are now so sensibly felt.
Now let me ask, with what reason, with what justice,
could an Englishman, could an American, could any one,
who wished the prosperity of Britain, complain of an Act
which was made solely to benefit the English merchant in
preference to the Dutch? especially in the sale of an ar-
ticle of so much importance, in such constant and exten-
sive use and consumption ; and after the people here,
being deluded and hurried on by a seditious tribe of dema-
gogues had, in open violation of the common rights of
society, of every principle of justice, of their allegiance to
their Sovereign, of their constitutional dependance upon
Great Britain, so wantonly and maliciously destroyed so
large and valuable a quantity of merchandise, let me ask,
where is the man so destitute of every principle of honesty,
of every sentiment of honour, so deaf to the call of equity
and justice, and the demands of law, as to hesitate one
moment to make the most ample and satisfactory restitu-
tion in his power ? To this question, to which it must pain
every loyal American to return an answer, I, with equal
grief and astonishment, reply, the Town of Boston, in
Town-Meeting assembled, were the men. These men,
who, by their conduct, had drawn down the resentment of
the Nation ; by their subsequent unaccountable proceed-
ings, Jiave been the wilful cause of the continuation of
those distresses, of which they now so highly complain
and so sensibly feel the effects ; and such has been their
fatal influence, that they prevailed upon the House of Re-
presentatives to appoint a solemn fast, to beseech of the
Almighty a sanction to their violence and robbery. What
unpardonable hypocrisy ! What unheard-of mockery of
Heaven! What unparalleled .effrontery! Can it be sup-
posed that the Divine Being, who, by the principles of
natural religion implanted in the human mind, and by the
repeated precepts in his written word, has so plainly com-
manded us to abstain from fraud, rapine, and injustice, and
has denounced the most heavy woes upon those who are
guilty of these heinous crimes, will ever hearken to the
supplications of those who refuse to make restitution to
their fellow-creatures, whom they have grossly, wantonly,
and unreasonably injured ? Nevertheless, the good people
of the Province were so far deluded and misled, as to
adopt so unpardonable a measure. It was, however, hoped,
that the Members of the Continental Congress, free from
the infatuation which was so prevalent here, unbiased by
our prejudices, uninfluenced by passions, and attentive to
the true interests of the Province and Continent, would
have recommended the payment for the Tea, as a neces-
sary step to a reconciliation. But alas! we find them in-
fluenced by the same factious leaders, by their conduct vir-
tually approving of this daring injustice. Upon no other
principle can we account for their inserting the Boston Port
Act in the list of grievances, when a compliance with the
most obvious, indispensable demands of justice, would at
once have suspended the execution of it.

The next particular in this very comprehensive article,
is another Act, " empowering the Governour of the Mas-
sachusetts-Bay to send persons indicted for murder in that
Province to another Colony, or even to Great Britain, for
trial, whereby such offenders may escape legal punish-
ment." It is really astonishing to see the low artifice and
glaring falsehood made use of in this description of the
Act. It is not true that the Governour is thus empowered,
as the Act expressly requires the advice and consent of
the Council, before any person can be removed to any
other place prescribed by the Act for trial ; so that, how-
ever arbitrarily the Governour may be disposed to act in
this instance, if the Council refuse their consent, he can
do nothing. What could induce the Congress thus to sacri-
fice their characters as honest men, (as I presume some of
them were,) is totally unaccountable. If the Act is really
grievous, is it not much better to represent it in a true
light, than by falsehood and high colouring, to mislead and
deceive every reader who does not examine the statute for
himself? To make the people believe that the Governour
has it in his power to tyrannize at pleasure over them,

when in reality he can do nothing himself? If it is not
grievous, will such misrepresentations make it so? Can
they be justified upon any good and virtuous principle ?
Ought not those men, who, by such pitiful, base methods,
can attempt to stir up a people to acts of treason and re-
bellion, and destroy the peace and happiness of millions,
to be held in everlasting infamy and contempt? Reason
dictates, justice demands, that they should.

Let us attend to the other expressions used in the de-
scription of this Act : " Send persons indicted for murder
in that Province to another Colony, or even to Great Bri-
tain, for trial." Is not this expression plainly calculated
to induce a belief that all persons indicted for any murder
may be thus removed ? Is it not general and indefinite,
without any exception, without any restriction, to the par-
ticular offences specified in the Act? I grant, that were
the Act such as is here represented, it would be a most
alarming grievance, a matter requiring every effort in our
power to get it redressed ; and the more distressing and
oppressive it would be if true, so much greater is the guilt
and wickedness of those men who would make us believe
it to be so. But if we examine the statute itself, we shall
find it really calculated to promote the more impartial ad-
ministration of justice in those instances to which it relates.
If we advert to the design of its being made, and the cause
which gave rise to it, we shall be convinced of its propriety
and expediency. The destruction of the Tea above men-
tioned had been effected in open and direct opposition to,
and violation of, an Act of Parliament ; no Magistrate had
interposed to prevent it ; it was the prevailing opinion of
the common people, who formed their political creed upon
the principles, practices, and information of their seditious
leaders, that Acts of Parliament were not binding in Ame-
rica. They, therefore, did not consider themselves as com-
mitting an act of treason in destroying it, but at most a
trespass at common law ; nay ! some, in their phrensy,
thought it a meritorious action, and that they were doing
God service by their zeal in such a cause. If, therefore,
any civil Magistrate, or others by his command, had, in re-
sisting these rioters and traitors, put any of them to death,
and had been brought to a trial for it here, such was the
ferment of the times, so infectious and extensive the in-
fatuation, that the chance was ten thousand to one that
the jury to pass upon their lives would consist of men who
had adopted these erroneous opinions, who would there-
fore think the conduct of the accused unlawful and criminal,
and consequently bring them in guilty of murder ; and I
have no doubt but this would have been the case, had such
resistance been made at that time. The Parliament might
justly suppose that this notorious violence passing " uncon-
trolled and unpunished," was owing to this cause ; at least
this is the most favourable and charitable construction that
they could put upon it. But be that as it may, their atten-
tion to future instances of the same kind, to prevent such
daring outrages, to induce submission to Acts of Parlia-
ment, and to encourage the civil Magistrate and others in
the execution of their duty, was evidently the design of
the Act ; and it is equally evident, to use the words in the
preamble of the Act, that Magistrates and others might
" be discouraged from the proper discharge of their duty,
by an apprehension that, in case of their being questioned
for any acts done in execution of the Laws and Statutes of
the Realm, they might be liable to be brought to trial for
the same before persons who do not acknowledge the validi-
ty of the laws, in the execution whereof, or the authority of
the Magistrate, in support of whom such acts had been
done." Especially when, for a bare disavowal of the vio-
lence and opposition to British laws, and the illegal, dan-
gerous spirit that then did and still does prevail, whole
Towns have been stigmatised, and individuals insulted and
abused. Nay, if those who would venture to resist and
quell any riots or mobs fortunately were acquitted by their
peers, upon a fair, open, and impartial trial, they have still
been pursued with unrelenting vengeance, and their names
and characters held up to publick view in the most infa-
mous and odious light : witness the institution on the fifth
of March ; that disgrace to humanity, dishonour to the
laws, and paragon of infernal malice ! Thus, while every
discouragement has been given to the due execution of the
laws, when we were absolutely reduced to a state of lawless
anarchy, can we with reason complain of an Act calculated

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330

to restore us to peace, quietness, and order; an Act which
provides an impartial trial for men who shall laudably ven-
ture to enforce a due obedience to the laws and constitu-
tional authority of the Parent State.

But the fatal mischief which the quick-sighted Congress
have discovered in this Act, that "hereby such offenders
may escape legal punishment," at once excites our pity
for their weakness, and resentment for their dishonesty.
Surely their complaisance to this Province arose to an un-
bounded height, thus to compliment us, not only at the
expense of all the other Colonies upon the Continent, but
even of Great Britain. I am apt to suspect they under-
took the description of this Act immediately after the
adoption of the Suffolk Resolves; in these two instances
their conduct seems to be uniform and consistent. And is
there not, then, to be found in the Kingdom of Great
Britain, nor in all the Colonies, an uncorrupted Court and
twelve impartial Jurors, who will act agreeable to law and
justice, save in the renowned Province of the Massachu-
setts-Bay ? Cannot a fair and legal trial be had in any
other part of the Dominions? Or, what I was not aware
of before, did the Congress think there could not be found
elsewhere a Court and Jury so intoxicated with popular
rage and delusion, as to condemn men, as guilty of murder,
who had only discharged their duty in the due execution
of the laws? And, therefore, in their great humanity com-
plain that they should have any chance for an acquittal !
I am at a loss on which of these principles to account for
the conduct of the Congress. But it is so ridiculous to
pretend that a fair trial cannot be had out of this Province,
when every circumstance favours a contrary supposition,
that it hardly deserves a serious answer. Thus, my dear
friends and fellow-countrymen, have the Congress left that
path which their duty and our interest pointed out, and
followed the lead of a few men, who, had they been influ-
enced by any laudable or virtuous considerations, we should
have been saved from the calamities that now awaits us.

As this publication is so lengthy, I must defer the re-
maining part of the article for a future paper.

Phileirene.

TO THE INHABITANTS OF THE MASSACHUSETTS-BAY.
NO. IX.

Boston, April 13, 1775.

My Friends and Fellow-Countrymen :

It is not to be wondered at that disappointed men, grown
wanton by peculation, whose ambition suggested to them
the hope of overturning a Constitution which themselves,
their ancestors, and the community had enjoyed, and the
British Nation acceded to for near a century and a half,
should endeavour to convince their fellow-countrymen of
the rectitude and fitness of their exertions ; when suspect-
ed, if not convicted, at the bar of the impartial publick of a
series of treasonable acts and perfidious plots, by which
their Country and millions of their fellow-mortals are
plunged into a choice of the greatest calamities, that they
should call opposition to their measures by lying names,
treason, and rebellion ; that they should attempt to fix the
imputation of their own crimes upon those who have, in some
decree, detected and baffled their oppressive schemes ; that
they should struggle to carry their points, by imposing
upon the understandings of some, and practising on the
hopes and fears of others, is no way astonishing. Such
men blush at nothing ; ever restless and craving, over-heated
in the pursuits of honour and profit, they yield themselves
up to the dominion of principles as unworthy the man as
ever the wretched animals of unbounded ambition were
under the influence of, or the willing tools of despotick
power advocates for.*

Massachusettensis, in his publication of January 23d,
after giving us some historical facts, and his observations
upon them, which go to the right of Parliament, bursts
forth into the most virulent invectives against those gentle-
men who have been deputed, by the free and unsolicited
suffrages of the people, to watch the encroachments of

* It gives mo no pleasure to write ; it must give pain to a good mind
lo read a character wliich wounds liis species (his countrymen) with
disgrace and infamy. I am sorry to say there are some on both sides
lllantick, to whom it but too well applies. Charity hopes all
things, and may plead for tenderness and indulgence. Hut the first
obligation* upon a writer arc to truth and justice, sffand whom it may.

power, and to concert means to withstand the efforts of
tyranny, which, like an inundation, was breaking in upon
us, sweeping away all our social blessings. The application
of his facts, and the pertinency of his observations, goes
wholly upon the presumption that the Colonies were parts
of the British Empire, even from their first discovery, or,
for aught appears, from the creation of the world, and as
such subject to the British Parliament in all cases. There-
fore, as there is nothing new in this part of his paper, the
answers which we have repeatedly made to such presump-
tions, void of proof, will, upon recollection, apply, and be a
sufficient confutation. For this reason I will not take up
your time with unnecessary observations upon his first para-
graphs on this subject.

Our writer tells us the novelty of our being exempted
from the authority of Parliament will appear, by an extract
from a pamphlet published in 1764, by a gentleman who
was then an oracle of the Whigs, and whose profound
knowledge in the Law and Constitution is equalled but by
few. This extract asserts that all the Colonies are subject
to, and dependant on Great Britain, and that the Parlia-
ment has authority to make laws binding upon them for
their general good, Sic. This gentleman, who has been
one of the greatest ornaments of his profession as a lawyer,
has made all America his debtors for his agonizing strug-
gles in opposition to usurpation and tyranny by British
powers. He has more than once nobly stood forth to stem
the torrent. His publick life has been a political conflict
with principalities and powers, with men whom, from a lust
of power, have been plotting the ruin of this ill-fated Prov-
ince, together with this great patriot.

The Whigs call no man master under Heaven, however
great ; their appeal is to the law and to the testimony, to the
Constitution of their Country, and the eternal principles of
nature. The position laid down by the gentleman alluded
to, as it stands unsupported by argument or reason, what-
ever might induce to it in his mind, is but the opinion of
one individual of the community. Admitting that it was his
opinion that the right of Parliament was as extensive as her
present claims, which was not the case, it would only prove
a diversity of opinion in different men, which is sometimes
the case in the same man at different times. This is inci-
dent to humanity, especially before a thorough examina-
tion of the subject. We might apply to it an observation
of his own upon a similar occasion, "that when great men
miss it, they miss it most egregiously." They, as has been
remarked on this very pamphlet, sometimes see men as
trees walking. However, Massachusettensis, ever consist-
ent with himself, fully answers this, his own argument, in
his paper of March 16th. "Messieurs Otis, Cushing,
Hancock, and Adams," says he, " were confidential friends,
and made common cause. May we thence infer, that the
three latter held that the Parliament had a just and equita-
ble right to impose taxes on the Colonies, &ic, because the
first did." He adds, " such principles and inferences are
unlucky," that is, nothing can be inferred from them. If
so, can we infer the sentiments of the publick from the
opinion of one gentleman ? How, then, does the above
extract, which has been published and republished, cited
and recited by our writer, prove, upon his own principles,
that the denial of the authority of Parliament over the
Colonies is a novelty ?

We are next presented with an extract from the Farm-
er's Letters, who, we are told, took the lead in explaining
away the right of Parliament to raise a revenue in Ame-
rica, where, speaking of the regulation of Trade, tells us,
" he who considers these Provinces as States distinct from
the British Empire, has very slender notions of justice, or
of their interest. We are but parts of a whole, and there-
fore there must exist a power somewhere to preside and
preserve the connection in due order. This power is
lodged in Parliament, and we are as much dependant on
Great Britain as a perfectly free people can be on ano-
ther." This elegant writer and firm asserter of his Coun-
try's rights, who took the lead, still holds a conspicuous
place among the American worthies, the guardians of our
liberties. His sentiment respecting the rights of Parlia-
ment is sufficiently evident from the result of the Con-
gress, of which he was a member, as well as from the
whole tenour of those Letters, which have been translated
and admired by different Nations in Europe. It is admit-

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332

ted that the Colonies and Great Britain are one, are
parts of a whole, in their commercial interest. They see
the necessity of a power somewhere, to preside, and pre-
serve this commercial connection in due order. They
consent that Parliament should exercise this power ; we
contend only for the rights and privileges of a perfectly
free people, submitting to Acts for the regulating of
Trade.

Massachusettcnsis having, as he says, settled the right
of Parliament, dips his pen in gall ; lost to all sense of
candour or generosity, to all the noble sallies of the chari-
table soul, arms it with invectives, and with a facility pecu-
liar to himself, hurls the envenomed shafts of obliquy and
reproach against some of the fairest characters on the
Continent. He lashes all around him indiscriminately,
with the dire scourges of calumny and slander.

To show what engines some of the tories, even the
mildest of them, employ in their political war; what inde-
cencies a party spirit betrays them into; to what expe-
dients, and pitiful shifts they sometitnes stoop, 1 will trans-
cribe the substance of a part of this acrimonious .

We are told, that the Resolves of our Conp-resses either
argue ' profound ignorance, or hypocritical cunning ; that
many unsuspecting persons have been prevailed upon to
oppose the execution of Acts of Parliament by those who
could have turned to the page where such insurrections
were pronounced rebellion by the laws of the land; and
had not their hearts been dead to a sense of justice, and
steeled against every feeling of humanity, they would
timely have warned us of our danger; that our patriots
have sent us in pursuit of a fascinating glare, devoid of sub-
stance ; that when we find ourselves bewildered, with
scarce one ray of hope to raise our sinking spirits, or stay
our fainting souls, they conjure up phantoms more delusive
and fleeting, if possible, than that which first led us astray ;
they tell us that we are a match for Great Britain ; that
no pains have been spared by our wretched politicians to
prevent a defection of the Army to the service ; that the
officers have a bad opinion of the cause of the Whigs, from
the treatment of their General, and the infamous attempts
to seduce the soldiers from His Majesty's service ; that the
policy of our patriots has been as weak and contemptible
as their motives are sordid and malevolent; that failing of
success in corrupting, they took pains to attach them firmer
to the service, by preventing the erecting of barracks, by
which means many contracted diseases, and some lost their
lives ; that our patriots had deprived them of a gratifica-
tion never denied to the brute creation — straw to lay on ;
that we have been amused with intimations and prospects
which were only the suggestions of despair ; that the Grand
Congress had prevented the people in England from
espousing our cause ; that they had bid Great Britain.
defiance. He then concludes his paper by telling us
what warlike preparations are made against us, and advis-
ing us to provide for the safety of ourselves, our wives,
our children, our friends, and our Country, by immediately
protesting against all the traitorous Resolves and Associa-
tions of our Congresses, that the innocent may not be
confounded with the guilty.

There is scarce one crime that human nature is capable
of, but what is here imputed to our leaders, whose publick
conduct is applauded by an admiring world. Not content-
ed with vilifying their characters, he urges it upon us with
an importunate pathos as a duty, to commit an act of the
basest ingratitude, an instance of the blackest treachery.
Perfidiously to protest against the proceedings of those
gentlemen who, by our appointment and for our safety,
have undertaken an arduous task, and, unawed by a sense
of danger, confiding in the virtue and firmness of their
Country, have discharged it with honour, wisdom, firm-
ness, and courage themselves, would be blasting our spe-
cies with disgrace, and consigning our names to everlasting
infamy.

Paintings and colourings on indifferent matters may
tickle the sense and please the imagination ; even fictitious
representations may be innocent. In affairs of serious and
general concernment, to misrepresent and asperse, is to
play with firebrands, arrows, and death. You well know,
my countrymen, the real state of facts upon which our
writer founds his ill-natured charges. You are acquainted
with their concomitant circumstances, the principles and

policy upon which they stand. The necessity of our situa-
tion, in which the Tories had plunged us, pointed them out ;
self-preservation gave them being. I shall not particularly
advert to his charges against our publick characters, except-
ing to those of treason and rebellion. Power naturally
exists where God Almighty placed it. Great oppressions,
unless the people are sunk into ignorance and stupidity,
will ever kindle the spirit of opposition. It is in vain to
attempt to reason or frighten those who have minds to
conceive, hearts to feel, and spirit to act, into servile sub-
missions. They feel truths, feel injuries : and present suf-
ferings render them strangers to future dangers. Exigen-
cies call for exertions ; efforts may prove fortunate, glorious,
and triumphant; and when a subjection, or vanquishment,
can take nothing away that a submission would leave,
reason warrants the procedure. It is an observation of the
celebrated Doctor Blackstone, " that whenever the uncon-
stitutional oppressions, even of the sovereign power, ad-
vance with gigantick strides, and threaten desolation to a
State, mankind will not be reasoned out of the feelings of
humanity, nor will sacrifice their liberty, by a scrupulous
adherence to those political maxims which were established
to preserve it."

This will be the case, whether there be Congresses or
Committees, patriots and politicians, or not, until men's
spirits are subdued. Had Massachusettensis been as much
indebted to some of our patriots, as many of his good bre-
thren in the western parts of this Province are for their
kind interposition to appease a justly incensed multitude,
he would have dealt out his invectives with a more sparing
hand.* What would have been the situation of the Tories
in the Country, had it not been for Committees of Corres-
pondence, which they so much despise, and other gentle-
men of influence, who possessed the confidence and affec-
tions of an abused people ?

That all publick and civil powers, Royal prerogatives,
and Kingly authority, may remain where the wisdom of
our Constitution have placed them, is the wish of every
true American. Every pulse beats loyalty to our gracious
Sovereign. He pierces with indignant looks the wretch
who dares to lisp disloyalty, who would not spill his blood
in defence of his King's constitutional Government, his
crown and dignity. By opposing innovations, Govern-
ment is preserved. For subjects to hold their liberties
dearer than life, must be the joyful boast of an English
Prince : it is the most sparkling gem in the Crown of
George the Third, whose life America prays may be long
and happy. She considers the Crown and Royal dignity
as an office instituted for the people for their good, as a
trust for millions, and extending its influences to genera-
tions yet unborn, and not as a descendable property, as
an estate vested in the possessor for the emolument and
grandeur of himself and heirs.

To assert and defend those rights which have their foun-
dation in the reason of things, in the nature of Government,
the principles of the English Constitution, our own Char-
ters, the laws of our being, the maxims of wisdom and
sound policy that have been sanctified by long usage, a
uniformity of principle and practice for ages past, cannot
be disloyalty to that King who never dies, who is constitu-
tionally present and active in all parts of his Government,
and neither knows nor regards the pleasure or mandates of
the man who wears the Crown, when they are not dictated
by the laws of the land. The coronation oath, and the
oath of allegiance, says a great writer, are in effect but
swearing to the Constitution — in one to govern, and in the
other to be governed, according to it.

Treason and rebellion consists in rising in opposition to
lawful authority. If we are not a part of the Empire ol
Great Britain in such a sense as to be subject to her legis-
lative authority in all cases, then she has no right to give
us law in all cases, or to coerce obedience to them. If she
has not this right, opposition to such laws as she has no
right to make is neither treason nor rebellion, nor any other
misdemeanor, but incumbent duty. Every society has a
right to preserve its liberties and privileges against those
who have no authority to invade them : and certainly they
are justified in the use of those means by which alone they

* I could tell some merry stories of the Tories making application
to some of the Whigs in the western part of this Province, for their
assistance when in trouble, were it proper at this time.

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CORRESPONDENCE, PROCEEDINGS, &c, APRIL, 1775.

334

can attain this valuable end. Sighs and tears, prayers and
broken hearts are of no effect against the frightlul blaze of
warlike apparatus. The points of swords, mouths of thun-
dering cannon, arms, and other instruments of death ; these
must be answered by a different argument.

The good of the whole is the same with the good of all
its parts. If self-defence is justifiable, nay, a duty in in-
dividuals, it must be lawful in a community composed of
individuals. l; The right of self-defence, in cases of great
and urgent necessity, and where no other remedy is at
hand, (says a great Crown lawyer,) is perfectly understood
and universally assented to : a right which the law of nature
giveth, and no law of society hath taken away."

If this be true in case of individuals, it will be equally
so in cases of communities under the like circumstances of
necessity. For all the rights and powers for defence and
preservation belonging to society, are nothing more than
the natural rights and powers of individuals transferred to,
and concentering in the body, for the preservation of the
whole. And from the law of self-preservation, considered
as extending .to civil society, resulted] the well known
maxim, salus populi suprema lex.

1 think the principles here laid down must be admitted,
unless any one will choose to say that individuals in a com-
munity are, in certain cases, under the protection of the
primitive law of self-preservation ; but communities, com-
posed of the same individuals, are in like cases excluded.
Or that when the enemy is at the gate, every single soldier
may and ought to stand to his arms, but the garrison must
surrender at discretion.

Is there not but too much reason to contemplate upon
these principles, to expect an attack, to prepare for the con-
flict ? Has not our capital street been bathed in blood ?
some of our countrymen cut and mangled with pointed
steel ? Others abused and injured in triumphant rage ? Is
not much of our property wrested from the hands of its
lawful owners ? Are not many valuable lives in constant
jeopardy ? Is not our Metropolis in captivity, and our
Harbours filled with Ships-of-War? Are not our adversa-
ries preparing for havock and desolation ? In this situation
is it loyalty to lay still unarmed, until destruction comes
upon us as a whirlwind ? Is it treason to prepare to act
on the defensive ? The great Somers tells us, that " he
who lets any person whatever destroy him contrary to law,
when it is in his power to preserve his life by defending
himself, does tacitly consent to his own death, which he is
obliged to defend by the law of nature ; and therefore is
guilty of his own blood." Is it not the same with com-
munities?

Massachusettensis tells us, in his publication of Febru-
ary 30th, " that he agrees with the Whigs, if the Colonies
are separate or distinct States, (that is, not within the ju-
risdiction of Parliament,) every Act of Parliament extending
to the Colonies, and every movement of the Crown to
carry them into execution, would be really grievances,
however wise and salutary they might be in themselves,
as they would be exertions of a power that we were not
constitutionally subject to, and would deserve the names of
usurpation and tyranny." He might have added, and
every person who has been deliberately attempting to
enforce and carry them into execution is guilty of . . ••
and deserves the .... together with the abhor-
rence of all America.

If the Parliament has not the right she contends for, of
taxation and legislation over the Colonies, a few extracts
from the illustrious Locke and Lord Somers will, perhaps,
come home to the point. " Whenever (says Locke) Legis-
lators endeavour to take away and destroy the property of
the people, or to reduce them to slavery under arbitrary
power, they put themselves in a state of war with the peo-
ple, who are thereupon absolved from any farther obedience,
and are left to the common refuge which God hath provi-
ded for all men against force and violence. Whenever,
therefore, the Legislative shall transgress this fundamental
rule of society, and either by ambition, fear, folly, or cor-
ruption, endeavour to grasp to themselves, or put into the
hands of any other, an absolute power over the lives,
liberties, and estate of the people, they forfeit their trust,
and the people have a right to reassume their original
liberty. The same holds true concerning the supreme
Executor, who acts against his trust, when he goes about

to set up his own arbitrary will as the law of the society,
when he employs the force, treasure and offices of the
society to corrupt the Representatives, and gain them to
his purposes. What is this but to cut up Government by
the roots, and poison the very fountain of publick securi-
ty ?" These are the words of that great man, and if they
apply in any degree to present times it is not my fault.

Seeing all power must be derived from some grant of
the people, it is incumbent upon every body politick to
prove and justify the several degrees of authority which it
pretends to claim ; and what it cannot derive from some
concession of the people, must remain vested in them as
their reserved right. If it assumes any authority which it
cannot prove the people surrendered, it is guilty of an in-
vasion of their rights. To extend the rights of governing
and commanding, and the duties of submission and obedi-
ence, beyond the laws of one's Country, is treason against
the Constitution, treachery to the society, and an injury to
mankind. It is cutting up the hedges and fences of the
subject's liberty, an attempt to make one part of mankind
tyrants and monsters, the other food for their malice, re-
venge, and brutal lust — to make them wretched slaves,
miserable reptiles.

Is there any proof or evidence of any surrender, com-
pact, or consent of the people, that the Colonies should
be, in all cases, within the legislative authority of Parlia-
ment ? Would not this be subversive of our Constitutions,
and repugnant to every principle of freedom ? What,
then, are the crimes of those who have been, and are still
struggling to establish this subjection ?

" They are not, nor can be rebels," says the famous
Lord Somers, " who endeavour to preserve and maintain
the Constitution; but they are traitors who design and
pursue the subversion of it. They are rebels who go
about to overthrow the Government of their Country ;
whereas such as seek to defend and support it, are the
truly loyal persons, and do act according to the ties and
obligations of fealty. Nor is it merely the first and high-
est treason in itself, that a member of a political society is
capable of committing, to go about to subvert the Consti-
tution ; but it is also the greatest treason he can perpetrate
against the person, crown, and dignity of the King."

" Whosoever, either ruler or the subject, by force goes
about to invade the rights of either Prince or People, and
lay the foundation for overturning the Constitution and
frame of any just Government, he is guilty of the greatest
crime, I think, a man is capable of, being to answer for all
those mischiefs of blood, rapine, and desolation, which the
breaking to pieces of Government brings upon a Country ;
and he who does it is justly to be accounted one who re-
sists the ordinance of God, and the common enemy and
pest of mankind."

The above is the judgment of whole Kingdoms and
Nations. Let those, whoever they be, that have been
sporting with the rights of mankind, and rioting on their
spoils ; who, contracted in the little point of self, and
equally steeled against the rebukes of conscience and the
sentiments of humanity, that have been thundering to the
world the terrours of prostituted law, and proclaiming the
manly and loyal struggles of an oppressed people in de-
fence of their just rights, sedition and rebellion — thus,
instigated by the sweets of revenge, the hopes of conquest,
the prospect of rich plunder in a plenty of confiscations,
the pleasing expectation of unbounded power, with a mis-
giving heart still dreading the final issue of things, have
been eager to travel the crimson fields of blood, and to
send the terrours of fire and sword into the innocent places
of domestick retirement ; let such consider what has been
the judgment of past ages, and will be the opinion of fu-
ture generations respecting their conduct.

From the County of Hampshire.

Portsmouth, New-Hampshire, April 14, 1775.

The alarming crisis to which the Parliamentary contro-
versy with the Colonies is now brought, demands the uni-
ted wisdom and attention of every serious, well-disposed
person among us ; and the grand question which obtrudes
itself at first view is, can we withstand the power of Great
Britain, when determined to enforce obedience to the
laws of her Parliament ? To this question, many heated

335

CORRESPONDENCE, PROCEEDINGS, kc., APRIL, 1773.

336

imaginations may reply, WB can ; for Britain is not able to
send Troops enough to conquer us, though she may distress
and ruin our commercial connections. 1 must confess that
1 am not of that opinion ; for if the British Nation, collec-
tively as one body, should espouse the Parliamentary claim
of supremacy, however unjust or unconstitutional, 1 am
convinced they could reduce us to such extremities as
would make us the most miserable of dependant beings.
But this cannot be expected ; we see the greatest men in
the Nation appear in behalf of America, condemning the
policy of Administration, applauding the Colonists for their
noble and generous exertions in support of their just rights
and privileges ; we see the Merchants kindly and friendly
petitioning the Parliament in our behalf; but all in vain —
our controversy is confined to the two branches of the Le-
gislature only, and they are judges in their own cause ;
and although His Majesty has been pleased to give coun-
tenance to their Resolutions, and seems determined to sup-
port them, yet, with all these appearances, we cannot think
the present manoeuvres justified by the Nation ; and a short
time will convince us that greater disturbances will appear
in England than in America. The obstruction to the Nciv-
foundland Fishery from Neio-England, will be another
alarm to the Nation, as they must see their rivals in trade,
the French, will seize every advantage thereby ; and the
Southern Governments will look upon the stoppage to the
trade of the New-England Provinces only as the execu-
tion of a plan in part, in expectation that they would avail
themselves of the opportunity of growing rich, and in-
creasing in trades, while the other are sinking beneath
their burdens, and reduced to such misery as to be obliged
to submit ; which when they have accomplished, Adminis-
tration will not be content till they have subjugated the
whole Continent to their sovereign control. But the
question still remains to be answered, can we, or shall we
withstand an Army who spread the British standard, and
is commanded by a General acting by and under His Ma-
jesty's commission ? To answer this question is puzzling
to the ablest politicians amongst us ; those who answer in
the affirmative, do not enough consider that the sword
once drawn can never be sheathed but in the bowels of
Britons and Americans — till desolation and war becomes
one general scene. For although ten thousand Troops
may fall an easy prey to the numbers brought against them,
yet what will be the event of such a conquest ? Britain
will feel the loss of her sons, and the blood of the slain
will call aloud for revenge, and this may rouse the Nation
to drop every idea of friendship, and losing sight of the
merits of the controversy, will naturally support the tar-
nished honour of the British arms, and enraged with dis-
dain of an inglorious defeat, may send such numbers of
mercenary and veteran Troops, which, together with a pow-
erful Fleet, will scatter destruction on our devoted heads.
On the other hand, those who are on the negative side of
the question, and who say we ought not to oppose the Bri-
tish Troops, should mark out the line of conduct necessary
to be pursued in this critical and alarming period, and
should prove the inexpediency of appearing in arms till
forced thereto by the loss of every idea or hope of a recon-
ciliation with Britain ; and that it plainly appears the Na-
tion has left us to be the victims of Parliamentary resent-
ment. For my own part, I must own the idea of taxation
without representation appears to me incompatible with the
British Constitution, and is a political solecism ; and any
Government founded upon such principles must soon fall
into despotism. And as America is not represented in the
Parliament of Britain, she can't justly be taxed ; but if it
is insisted upon, that supremacy must be lodged some-
where, and the Parliament being the highest Court in the
Nation, that supremacy ought to rest there ; in that case,
subordinate legislation by American Assemblies must be
first annihilated ; for the subject ought not to be governed
by two codes of laws, some of which are diametrically
opposite in their operation.

These arguments have been so often and so fully treated
upon, that every individual knows the force of them. 1
shall therefore only add here, that there is a vacancy, or
rather weakness, in the Constitution of the Parliamentary
Government of America, which requires the consideration
of both Countries, and without a settlement thereof the
present controversy will never be ended ; for unless the

wound is probed to the bottom, it cannot be healed ; it
may be skinned over for a short time, but will break out
again with more virulence. A denial of any legislative
right over America, is equally unreasonable in us, as it is
in the Parliament to claim it in all cases whatsoever. To
suppose that we are to be controlled only by our own Legis-
latures, will appear at first view to be incompatible with the
regulating laws of Commerce. The East-India, the As-
sicnto, and Hudson's Bay Companies, all pay large sums
to the Nation for an exclusive trade ; and every merchant
in Britain is subject to large penalties for even attempting
to trade there, besides a seizure and condemnation of both
vessel and cargo. So that if the Colonies are not subject
to these regulating laws, they may easily interfere in all
these exclusive trades, and evade the penalties. Inasmuch
as we have not attempted those trades, we have considered
ourselves as excluded with the rest of the Nation. The
line of conduct necessary for us to pursue at this time, to
avoid the dreadful consequences of a desolating civil war,
requires the advice and wisdom of the coolest and most
considerate men amongst us. And may the overruling hand
of a good Providence so direct all consultations for the
safety, welfare, and advancement of the British Nation in
general, and America in particular; and that unanimity in
our adopted plans may crown our expectations with suc-
cess, to a happy re-establishment of that harmony between
the two Countries, which is confessedly allowed to be the
only means of supporting their political existences.

Candidus.

In Provincial Congress, Concord, April 11, 1775.

Whereas numbers of persons, from their unhappy situa-
tion in the Town of Boston, are removing with their
effects :

It is recommended to the good people of this Province,
that they would rent their Houses, and assist such persons
with Teams for their removal, Provisions for their support,
and all other necessaries, upon as easy and cheap terms as
they can possibly afford ; and that all Goods and Merchan-
dise be sold in like manner, agreeable to the spirit of the
Continental Association. By order of the Provincial Con-
gress: John Hancock, President.

EXTRACT OF A LETTER FROM LORD DARTMOUTH TO GEN-
ERAL GAGE, DATED LONDON, APRIL 15, 1775.

It would appear necessary and expedient, that all Fortifi-
cations should be garrisoned by the King's Troops, or dis-
mantled and destroyed ; that all cannon, small arms, and
other military stores of every kind, that may be either in
any magazine, or secreted for the purpose of aiding the
rebellion, should also be seized and secreted; and that the
persons of such as, according to the opinion of His Majes-
ty's Attorney and Solicitor General, have committed them-
selves in acts of treason and rebellion, should be arrested
and imprisoned.

1 observed that in your letter of January 18th, you said
that if a respectable force is seen in the field, the most ob-
noxious of the leaders seized, and a pardon proclaimed for
all others, Government will come off victorious. The
two first of these objects are already provided for, and it
only remains for me to signify to you the King's pleasure,
that, if you shall continue to be of opinion, that an offer of
pardon will be advisable, you do, by virtue of the power
already given to you by His Majesty's special commission,
under the great seal for pardon for treason and other of-
fences, issue a Proclamation within your Government, at
such time as you shall judge proper, offering a reasonable
reward for apprehending the President, Secretary, and any
oilier of the Members of the Provincial Congress, whom
you shall find to have been the most forward and active in
that seditious meeting, requiring all persons who may, in
consequence of their Resolves and exhortations, have ap-
peared in arms to oppose the law, to render themselves to
the Governour and Council within a reasonable time, and
declare, that upon such surrender, and upon taking the
oaths of allegiance, and making such declaration of their
obedience as you shall think proper, they shall receive
His Majesty's gracious pardon for all treasons they have
committed.

337

CORRESPONDENCE, PROCEEDINGS, &c, APRIL, 1775.

338

LORD DARTMOUTH TO THE GOVERNOURS OF COLONIES.

[Circular.] Whitehall, April 15th, 1775.

Sir : I am commanded by the King to acquaint you
that it is His Majesty's pleasure that the orders of the
Commander-in-Chief of His Majesty's Forces in North
America, and under him of the Major Generals and Brig-
adier Generals, shall be supreme in all cases relative to
the operations of the said Troops, and be obeyed accord-
ingly. I am, Sir, your most obedient humble servant,

Dartmouth.

baltimore (maryland) committee.

Committee Chamber, Baltimore, April 15, 1775.

The Committee of Observation for Baltimore County,
reflecting on the many mischiefs and disorders usually at-
tending the Fairs held at Baltimore Town, and willing in
all things strictly to observe the Regulations of the Conti-
nental Congress, who, in their eighth Resolution, have ad-
vised to discountenance and discourage every species of
extravagance and dissipation, especially horse-racing, cock-
fighting, &c, have unanimously resolved to recommend it
to the good people of this County, and do hereby earnestly
request, that they will not themselves, nor will suffer any
of their families to attend, or in anywise encourage the ap-
proaching Fair at Baltimore Town ; and all persons are
desired not to erect booths, or in any manner prepare for
holding the said Fair.

We are persuaded the inhabitants of the Town in par-
ticular will see the propriety of this measure, and the ne-
cessity of enforcing it, as the Fairs have been a nuisance
long before complained of by them, as serving no other
purpose than debauching the morals of their children and
servants, affording an opportunity for perpetrating thefts,
encouraging riots, drunkenness, gaming, and the vilest im-
moralities. Samuel Purviance, Jr., Chairman.

garding your duty as an Associator, [Associator!] and at-
tempting to prejudice the people of your neighbourhood,
and others with whom you have communication, against
the Association, [Yes, but I never went out of my way to
do it,] and to draw into contempt the authority and conduct
of the Committee. [That I have, and always shall.] The
truth of this charge the Committee cannot avoid inquiring
into, and have ordered us to give you notice to attend the
monthly meeting at the Court-House, on the next Court
day, [that I shall not,] that you may have an opportunity
of making your defence ; and if the charge is groundless,
of evincing your innocence. [Innocence !] We are your
humble servants,

Thomas Turner, William Robinson,
Thomas Jett, John Washington.

On the day appointed, Mr. Brokenbrough failing to at-
tend, Mr. Daniel Briscoe, the person who delivered him
the notice, was called, and being sworn, declared that he
read the above notice to Mr. Brockcnbrough, at least ten
days before the meeting of the Committee, and left him a
copy, who made the replies inserted in the body of the
notice. These answers confess the truth of the charge,
and sufficiently indicate the disposition of the man, whose
obnoxious behaviour is also well known, and for some time
past has been observed with concern by several members
of the Committee. To reclaim from error, rather than
punish, would be the choice of the Committee. Oppor-
tunity was designedly afforded Mr. Brockenhrovgh, by a
short delay in the publication, to make atonement, and
avoid publick censure. The well-meant indulgence has
been slighted. Duty now requires that the truth of the
case be published, to the end that Mr. Brockcnbrough may
be publickly known, and universally contemned as an ene-
my to American liberty. By order of the Committee :

Andrew Wodrow, Clerk.

King Georgo, April 17, 1775.

EXTRACT OF A LETTER FROM JAMES HABERSHAM TO
MESSRS. CLARK AND MILLIGAN, LONDON.

Savannah, Georgia, April 17, 1775.

The fiery patriots in Charleston have stopped all deal-
ings with us, and will not suffer any Goods to be landed
there from Great Britain; and I suppose the Northern
Provinces will follow their example.

The people on this Continent are generally almost in a
state of madness and desperation; and should not concilia-
tory measures take place on your side, I know not what
may be the consequence. I fear an open rebellion against
the Parent State, and consequently amongst ourselves.
Some of the inflammatory resolutions and measures taken
and published in the Northern Colonies, 1 think too plainly
portend this. However, I must and do, upon every occa-
sion, declare that I would not choose to live here longer
than we are in a state of proper subordination to, and un-
der the protection of, Great Britain; although I cannot
altogether approve of the steps she has lately taken, and
do most cordially wish that a permanent line of Govern-
ment was drawn and pursued by the mother and her chil-
dren ; and may God give your Senators wisdom to do it,
and heal the breach ; otherwise, I cannot think of the
event but with horrour and grief. Father against son, and
son against father, and the nearest relations and friends
combating with each other ! I may perhaps say with truth,
cutting each other's throats. Dreadful to think of, much
more to experience. But I will have done with this dis-
agreeable subject, and am, gentlemen, your humble ser-
vant, James Habersham.

P. S. I find the American Merchants in London have
begun to stir in this matter; and I hope their application
will meet with success, as no good can ensue to Great
Britain and her Colonies from this contest, but much hurt
to both. I am for peace on constitutional grounds.

KING GEORCE COUNTY (VIRGINIA) COMMITTEE.

The Committee being informed that Mr. Austin Brock-
enbrough was counteracting the measures of the Conti-
nental Congress, ordered him to be summoned to answer
the complaint, which was done in the following terms :

King George, March 8, 1775.

Sir: You are accused before the Committee of disre-
Fourth Series. — Vol. ii.

Committee Chamber, Philadelphia, April 17,1775.

Whereas, it is now under the consideration of the Com-
mittee to suspend all trade and intercourse with such Colo-
nies as have not acceded to the Association of the Conti-
nental Congress ; the Committee have therefore thought it
proper to apprize their fellow-citizens of this matter, that
they govern themselves accordingly, and avoid entering into
any engagement with respect to such Colonies, from which
they may be subjected to great inconveniences hereafter.

By order of the Committee :

Jonathan B. Smith, Secretary. .

to the publick.

New-York, April 17, 1775.

Whereas, the enemies to the English Constitution, and
the rights and liberties of America, have endeavoured, to
the utmost of their power, to revile and defame the cha-
racter of every man who has honestly endeavoured to as-
sert and maintain those rights and privileges, which these
traitors are striving to subvert and take away ; hoping, by
such vile practices, to destroy or lessen the influence of
those who obstruct the execution of their wicked designs.
On this account, Captain Sears, who has long distinguished
himself among the most zealous, steady, and disinterested
friends and supporters of the rights and freedom of his
Country, became exceedingly obnoxious to these enemies,
who sought to aggrandize themselves upon its ruins. They
have, therefore, been extremely watchful to catch every
opportunity, when by misrepresentation or direct falsehoods,
they might bring an odium on his character, or expose him
to contempt and ridicule. But these devices, instead of
answering the end designed, have hitherto recoiled upon
their authors, and only served to exalt the character they
were intended to depress.

Among other false reports propagated against Captain
Scars, one was, that since shutting up the Port of Boston,
he, and his son-in-law, Mr. Paschal A. Smith, had loaded
a vessel with Wheat, Flour, or other provisions, for the sup-
ply of the King's Troops at Boston. The falsehood of
this malicious report will sufficiently appear by the follow-
ing Affidavit :

22

339

CORRESPONDENCE, PROCEEDINGS, &:c, APRIL, 1715.

310

City of New-York, ss.

Personally appeared before me, Jienjamm Blaggc, one
of His Majesty's Justices of the Peace, for the City and
County of New- York, Isaac Sears and Paschal N. Smith,
of the said City, merchants, who, being severally sworn,
depose and say, that since the shutting up of the Port of
Boston, neither of them have directly or indirectly, nor
any other person for or under them, supplied, or caused to
be supplied, the Army at Boston with any manner or kind
of provisions whatsoever ; and that neither of them have
received, nor in future expect to receive, any kind of emol-
ument or advantage, in any respect, from the Flour, Peas,
and other provisions shipped for the use of the Army at
Boston, since the shutting up of the said Port of Boston.

Isaac Sears,
Paschal N. Smith.
Sworn this 17th of April, 1775, before me,

B. Blague.

ARTHUR LEE TO JAMES KINSEY, SPEAKER OF THE HOUSE
OF ASSEMBLY, NEW-JERSEY.

Garden Court, Middle Temple, April 17, 1775.

Sir : Your letter, containing the Petition from the House
of Representatives to the King, arrived here after Doctor
Franklin had sailed for Philadelphia. The Petition was
therefore put into my hands to deliver to Lord Dartmouth.
I accordingly gave it to his Lordship, informing him of
these circumstances, and of the wish of the House that it
might be presented to Hi3 Majesty. But his Lordship re-
turned it to me this morning, with a declaration, that as I
was not authorized by the House, he, as Secretary of State,
could not receive it from me for the purpose 1 desired. To
deliver it to the King, in the common way, if I were autho-
rized so to do, would be ineffectual, because there is no
certainty of his reading it ; and he never gives an answer
but from the Throne, or through one of his Secretaries of
State. The Petition will therefore remain here, to wait
the further pleasure of the House. They who know and
lament that Petitions for redress of grievances from the dif-
ferent Assemblies have been repeatedly rejected, cannot
bat be persuaded, that the promise of their being now at-
tended to is only a Ministerial manoeuvre to divide the
Colonies, and draw off their attention to, and confidence in,
that which is their great shield and defence — union in Gen-
eral Congress. Your Constitution was so framed as to
mortify that hope. To divide and to destroy, or to fix this
merciless tyranny upon us, is their only endeavour. But I
trust in God, that the wisdom and virtue of our country-
men will continue to render it ineffectual, and give us, at
length, a happy issue out of all our troubles, by obtaining
a full redress of grievances.

1 have the honour of being, Sic. Arthur Lee.

Boston, Monday, April 17, 1775.

A letter from Taunton, dated last Friday, mentions,
" that on Monday, the 10th instant, parties of Minute-Men,
&.c, from every Town in that County, with arms and am-
munition, met at Freetown early that morning, in order to
take Colonel Gilbert; but he had fled on board the Man-
of-War at Newport. They then divided into parties, and
took twenty-nine Tories who had signed enlistments and
received arms in the Colonel's Company, to join the King's
Troops ; they also took thirty-five muskets, two case-bot-
tles of powder, and a basket of bullets, all which they
brought to Taunton the same afternoon, where the prison-
ers were separately examined, eighteen of whom made
such humble acknowledgments of their past bad conduct,
and solemn promises to behave better for the future, they
were dismissed ; but the other eleven, being obstinate and
insulting, a party was ordered to carry them to Simsbury
Mines ; but they were sufficiently humble before they had
got fourteen miles on their way thither ; upon which they
were brought back the next day, and after signing proper
articles to behave better for the future, were escorted to
Freetown. There were upwards of two thousand men em-
bodied there last Monday."

GOVERNOUR TRUMBULL TO REV. ELEAZER WHEELOCK.

Lebanon, April 17, 1775.

Reverend Sir: On the 7th instant, I received your
letters of the 16th and 22d of March last, and return my
thanks for your intelligence. The ability and influence of
Mr. Dean, to attach all the Six Nations to the interest of
these Colonies, is justly to be considered as an instance of
Divine favour for us, and proper authority and encourage-
ment to him will undoubtedly be easily obtained for that
purpose. When he returns, it will be very acceptable to
me to hear the intelligence he brings.

If the Indian scholars are called from you in a manner
that shews a design of hostilities, please to give the earliest
intelligence of it. You may depend on my care to do
nothing that may tend to injure you or your cause. Our
safety consists in the blessing of Heaven, a firm adherence
to our constitutional rights, and an union in religion and
virtue ; in the pursuit and practice of these, we may hope
for the relief of our distresses and redress of grievances.
It i3 the prayer of good men, that the Spirit of grace, as to
its converting influences, may he poured out upon the peo-
ple of this land. The late awful restraints of the Spirit are
a terrible token of God's righteous judgments.

I am, with much esteem and respect, reverend Sir, your
obedient humble servant, Jonathan Trumbull.

Reverend Eleazer Wheelock.

TO THE INHABITANTS OF NEW-ENGLAND, GREETING.

Men, Brethren, and Fathers :

Is the time come, the fatal era commenced, for you to
be deemed rebels by the Parliament of Great Britain?
Rebels ! wherein ? Why, for asserting that the rights of
men, the rights of Englishmen belong to us; that the King
of Great Bntain has pledged his Royal faith to protect us
in the enjoyment of all these rights of solemn compact as
our King; for meeting in Congresses, and resolving that no
man, nor body of men under Heaven, has any just right to
dispose of our properties without our consent ! Then
surely the time is come when we are loudly called upon to
consider whether we will defend these our rights and pro-
perties, or surrender them to Lord North and the rest of
the reigning tyrannical British Ministry, and content our-
selves for the future, not only to pay just such taxes as
Lord North and his bribed tools in Parliament shall please
to order to be laid upon us, but to be sold — we, our wives
and children — as other slaves are ; and all our houses, lands,
and fruits of our industry to be at the disposal of our lordly
masters ! But this you will not, you cannot submit to.
Heaven forbid that we should be so tame, so base, so un-
like the sons of God, so much like the vassals of the Prince
of Darkness ! Awake, therefore, and let us show ourselves
men, and not asses ! Let us all repent and turn every one
from his sins, his provocations against Heaven, and God
Almighty will awake to our help as in ancient time ; he
will ride on the clouds in his excellency, and smite our
enemies on their cheek-bone ; divide their counsels, and
turn their enterprises headlong, for he is mightier than the
noise of many waters ; he brought our forefathers into this
land, and made it to them an asylum from oppression, ty-
ranny, and persecution, and was for walls and bulwarks
round about them ; and had not the Lord been on their
side, they would have been many a time swallowed up
quick. And he will be for walls and bulwarks unto us, if
we don't forsake him; for it is our God who says, " Fear
not, for I am with thee ; be not dismayed, for I am thy
God; I will help thee, I will strengthen thee, yea, I will
uphold thee with the right hand of my righteousness." But
as to our being in a state of open rebellion, " the Lord
God of Gods, the Lord God of Gods, he knoweth," and
Great Britain shall know ; if it be in open rebellion against
our rightful Sovereign, against the constitutional authority
of the British Parliament, or the good and wholesome laws
of our land, we have acted, and for which we are now de-
clared to be in a state of open rebellion, " and in trans-
gression against the Lord, let the Lord himself require it,
and save us not this day !"

I am much mistaken if Lord North has not acted against
his own life, and will not soon lose his own head, if not
bring destruction on the Kingdom of Great Britain, and
King George the Third and his family, by his late mea-
sures in the British Parliament relative to our being de-
clared to be in a state of open rebellion! Time was, (an
opportunity given him,) by the Petition of the grand Con-

341

CORRESPONDENCE, PROCEEDINGS, he, APRIL, 1775.

312

tinental Congress, to have saved all ; but I fear the time
is now passed, especially if nothing turns up soon to pre-
vent their sending over more forces, for the purpose of sub-
duing us as rebels. But subdue us to a subjection unto
the supreme legislation and taxation authority of the Bri-
tish Parliament over the Colonies without their consent,
they will not, they shall not! Will it not be the proper
dictate of wisdom, as the way, and only way left us of our
preservation and safety, as soon as we see the sword of
Great Britain drawn against us, to sacrifice every New-
England Tory among us ; to publish a manifesto with
promises of protection and rewards to all of the British
Troops that shall join in the cause of American liberty,
and immediately cut off all such as intend to act as our
enemies ; and to send ambassadors to the Courts of Europe,
with a declaration of all our Ports being opened to them
for a free trade ? Johannes in Eremo.

Salem, Massachusetts, April 18, 1775.

London, April 19, 1775.
Though the whole body of the people rfiight, with great
facility, get into their power any Standing Army which
Ministers may employ in destruction of our liberties, yet,
by my advice, not a single Briton should be put to the
sword, except in the field of battle, or by the divine law of
retaliation. Besides, were we not powerful enough within
ourselves to effect this purpose, we may be assured that
our own Militia, who are the only constitutional Soldiers
of this Realm, will not longer remain idle, or that they will,
like hired ruffians or mercenary troops, imbrue their hands
in the blood, or sheathe their bayonets in the bosoms of
their countrymen; for our Militia ought to be enrolled,
and composed only of the Knights or landed gentry of the
Country, and as such their respective Lord-Lieutenants
would not dare to send them upon any unconstitutional ser-
vice, because, by the Norman Treaty, our Militia-men are
enjoined to obey their Colonels, so far forth as " eorum
justa pracepta" shall extend, but not a single hair's breadth
farther ; for they are guilty of treason against the Constitu-
tion the moment they pass the Rubicon. And here lies
the great distinction between Militia-men and Regulars ;
the former, at the hazard of their lives, are to execute no
unjust, unnatural, unconstitutional orders ; the latter, even
at the peril of their lives, must implicitly and unhesitating-
ly obey every order they receive from their commanding
officer, was it even to lay the whole City of London in
ashes this very moment, or to rip open the bowels of every
pregnant woman in the Kingdom, their own mothers not
excepted. Happy, indeed, though our Mutiny Acts autho-
rize the execution of every species of Hcrodian barbarity
and Neronian cruelty, yet, as several clauses in those very
Acts are most flagrant violations of the Norman Treaty,
and shocking to human nature, they are, as I have frequent-
ly observed, not law ; consequently the King's Troops, as
they are faithfully called, (for they are not the Troops of
the King, but on the contrary the Troops of the Kingdom,
and in the pay of the Kingdom, and of the Kingdom only,)
would be highly justified were they, like true Englishmen,
unanimously to lay down their arms, and absolutely refuse
to fight against their countrymen, constitutionally assem-
bled, either in the plains of Runnymede, or in the Town
of Boston. Conscious of the rectitude and truism of this
position, our honest, brave English Soldiery, one and all,
grounded their firelocks on Hounslow-Heath, nobly and
most spiritedly refusing to obey the butcherly commands
of that pigmy of a tyrant, James the Second — a pigmy, I
mean, compared to the colossal tyrants of the present day.
Nor does this immortal precedent stand single in the his-
torick page, for the Troops of Cinna, in his fourth Consul-
ship, when ordered by the Senate to embark for Dalmatia,
and give battle to Sylla, most gloriously refused to go
aboard, peremptorily insisting they would not be employed
as barbarian ruffians or inhuman monsters, to slaughter
their countrymen in cold blood; and this, too, even though
the Senate had previously declared both Sylla and his
forces enemies to Rome. To compel your Army to obe-
dience merely by the terrours of punishment and Mutiny
Acts of Parliament ; this is not to govern, but to domineer.
This true and most excellent observation doubtless will
have its proper weight with our whole Military, since it is
the dictum of as great a General, and of as great an Em-

pire as ever existed — 1 mean Cuius Marius, who, though
born a plebian, and therefore regularly precluded from the
Consulship of Rome, yet, in consideration of his signal
courage, contempt of money, love of his Country, and un-
paralleled knowledge of the whole theory and practice of
war, was seven times successively elected Consul, an hon-
our never conferred upon any Roman, either before or after
his advancement to that superlatively imperial dignity.

I have thus laid before you a true state of the weakness
and insignificancy of the Standing Army at present in
Great Britain, not, indeed, out of any disrespect or dis-
paragement to them, for I have a presentiment that the
marching Regiments and Lighthorse will maturely consider
they do not receive the King's pay, but that of the King-
dom, and therefore, properly and strictly speaking, are in
the actual service, not of the King, but of the Kingdom ;
and that, consequently, whenever the popular State shall
constitutionally and simultaneously rise up in arms, as our
glorious ancestors did against the Kings John and James
the Second, the Regulars have only this optional alterna-
tive in law, namely, either to lay down their arms, as I
have mentioned they did on Hounslow-Heath, or take an
active part under the banners of the people.

This being the case, and seeing there is no real danger
in the present Standing Army, were they even to act hos-
tilely against the people constitutionally assembled, which
cannot reasonably be expected ; and seeing that Lieutenant
Colonel James Abercrombie, who is embarked with a pow-
erful reinforcement for that Army, which is to destroy the
liberties of America, hath actually carried over with him
peremptory orders to disarm the people of Boston, which
is another most insolent, impudent violation of the Bill of
Rights, (for by that treaty it is expressly and sacro-sanc-
tionally stipulated, that every Protestant subject shall al-
ways carry arms for his defence.) What remains, then, for
us, but instantly to put a stop to this rapid and all-deluging
torrent of tyranny? What better advice can there be,
than immediately to convene a National Congress here in
England, and take the field, as our ancestors did on the
plains of Runnymede, and thus constitutionally and
effectually assist our American brethren, whom to desert
in their present distresses, or even not to assist to the ut-
most of our abilities, would, in us, be unpardonably unjust,
superlatively iniquitous, and infamously ungrateful ; for in
fact they are now fighting our battles. It is the glorious
cause of liberty they are engaged in ; the common cause
and common birthright of every Englishman. I say the
common birthright of every Englishman, for the liberty of
an Englishman is an inheritance issuing out of his freehold
land ; and whether my freehold lies at Boston, in New-
England, or at Boston, in Old England, it makes no
difference, because by the same tyranny that I am forcibly
disseized of my ancestral grant of land, which entailed with
it a grant of liberty in one part of the British Empire, I
may be equally robbed of it by the same lawless power of
the sword in any other part of the British Dominions.
Let us, then, here at home, my countrymen, never suffer
so inestimable a grant to be tamely wrested from us ; let
us join our brother Americans in so just and glorious a
cause, and, like our immortal exemplary ancestors, make
that King tremble on his throne who shall sacrilegiously
dare to invade the majesty of the Democratick State in
the most essential of their rights, the free gift and grant
of their money. Brecknock.

NEW-YORK COMMITTEE.

New- York, April 17, 1775.

The Sub-Committee appointed 27th March last, to State
and Report an account of the Sales, and of the Profits
which have arisen from the Goods, Wares, and Merchan-
dise, disposed of under the direction of the General Com-
mittee, agreeable to the Tenth Article of the Association
of the late Continental Congress, do make the following
Report, viz :

Arrived, In the Ship Isabella, from Dublin, two boxes
Linenr, sold 9th December last, for the first cost and char-
ges, £0 Os. Od.;

In the Schooner Dolphin, Captain Waterman, from Ja-
maica, 3d December last, thirty-five bags Pimento, sold for
first cost and charges, ------ £0 0*. Od. ;

In the Sloop Polly, Captain Thompson, from Falmouth,

343

CORRESPONDENCE, PROCEEDINGS, Lc, APRIL, 1775.

•Ml

3d December last, sundry Merchandise, sold for first cost
and charges, --------- £o Os. Od. ;

In the Ship Sally, Captain Bruce, from Greenock, 15th
December last, sundry Merchandise, which were sold and
yielded a profit of £26 1 7s. Od. ;

In Brig Rebecca, Captain Saunders, from Madeira,
sundry pipes of Wine, sold 23d December last, for first
cost and charges, ------- £fj 0*. Od. ;

In the Monimta, from Greenock, sundry Merchandise,
sold 29th December last, yielded a profit of £ 1 0s. Od. ;

In the Brig Freemason, Captain Sample, from Ncicry,
2d January last, sundry Merchandise, sold 9th January,
and yielded a profit of ----- - £9 0s. 3d. ;

In the Ship Sally, Captain Baglcy, from Licerpool,
17th December last, sundry Merchandise, sold 22d Decem-
ber, and yielded a profit of" - - - - £23 14s. 4d. ;

In Ship Z/rtcty Gage, Captain Mesnard, from London,
sundry Merchandise, sold 16th and 20th December last,
yielded a profit of £182 18s. Od.;

In the Brig Fair Lady, from Bristol, 19th December,
sundry Merchandise, sold 23d December, and yielded a
profit of £29 12s. 4d. ;

In the Charming Peggy, from Cork, one hundred and
seventy-five barrels of Beef and Pork, and thirty firkins
of Butter, sold the 31st day of December, for first cost
and charges, - £0 0s. Od. ;

In the Ship Glasgow, Captain Craig, from Greenock,
four bales Carpeting, and eighty tons of Coal, sold 10th
January last, for first cost and charges, - £0 0s. Od. ;

In the Brig Friendship, Captain Bryson, from Jamai-
ca, a quantity of Pimento, sold for the first cost and char-
ges, £0 0s. 0d.;

A trunk of Calicoes imported from London, via Phil-
adelphia, sold for first cost and charges, - £0 0s. Od. ;

In the Brig George, Captain Colder, from Newcastle,
a quantity of Coal and Cordage, sold, and yielded a pro-
fit of £4 2s. 0d.;

In the Ship Jamaica, Capt. Jcrmyn, from London, sundry
Merchandises, sold and yielded a profit of £l Is. 2d. ;

In the Ship Lilly, Captain Cochran, from Greenock, 1st
January last, sundry Merchandises, sold 6th January, and
yielded a profit of £22 16s. Id;

In the Brig Elliot, Capt. Pym, from Liverpool, sundry
Merchandise, sold, and yielded a profit of $10 9s. 3d. ;

In the Ship Rockingham, from Newcastle, a quantity
of Coal, Grindstones, and Bottles, sold 24th January last,
for the first cost and charges, - - - - £o 0s. Od ;

In the Ship Hester, from Jamaica, a quantity of Pi-
mento, sold the 12th day of December, for cost and char-
ges, - £0 0s. 0d.;

la the Brig Patty, Captain Ashfield, from Madeira, in
December last, sundry pipes and quarter casks of Wine,
sold for the first cost and charges, - - £0 Os. Od. ;

In the Ship Daniel, Captain Casey, from Liverpool,
sundry Merchandise, sold January 7th, 1775, and yielded

a profit of £35 6s. 2<i.

Profits, --- - £347 4s. Id.

From the above state it appears, that the sum of £347
4s» \d. hath arisen upon the Goods, Wares, and Mer-
chandise disposed of under the direction of the General
Committee, agreeable to the Tenth Article of the Associa-
tion, " to be applied towards relieving and employing such
poor inhabitants of the Town of Boston as are imme-
diately sufferers by the Boston Port Bill.

Abraham Brasher,
Jeremiah Platt,
Peter T. Curtenius.

Committee-Chamber, New- York, April 19, 1775.

Ordered, That the above state be published in the
Newspapers of Mr. Holt and Mr. Gaine, and that Mr.
Curtenius be directed to remit the amount in produce to
Boston. By order of the Committee:

Fra. Lewis, Chairman pro tern.

EXTRACT OF A LETTER FROM NEW-YORK TO A GENTLE-
MAN IN PHILADELPHIA, DATED APRIL 19, 1775

Last night arrived Captain Dean, who left London the
5th and Start Point the 18th of March, and tells us that
eleven Regiments are to be embarked on board ninety-five

Transports for Boston; the vessels had sailed to the sev-
eral Ports in Great Britain and Ireland; twelve sail of
Frigates are ordered to accompany them ; the Transports
and Royal Ships have twelve months provisions and stores
on board. Be assured this Colony will be blessed with
every possible mark of Royal favour that can be shown it.
The armament coming out is to enfore the intentions of
Government, in case the four New-England Provinces
should refuse the Conciliatory Bill, as intimated by Lord
North's motion.

EXTRACT OF ANOTHER LETTER OF THE SAME DATE.

This morning the Snow Sir William Johnson, Captain
Dean, arrived here from London, but last from the Downs,
in thirty-one days : the intelligence he brings is not so
agreeable as could be wished ; the papers are as late as the
5th of March. Captain Dean says, that sixteen Men-of-
War and ninety-five Transports were certainly coming out
to America; he lay among them at Spithcad ; that terms
would be first offered, that is, that each Government should
annually raise a certain sum for the support of the Fleet
and Army of Great Britain; that complied with in our
own way, an amicable accommodation would soon follow.

A nobleman is ordered out for this place, in order to
bring about a pacification 1 hope.

COMMITTEE OF NEW-YORK TO THE PROVINCIAL CONGRESS
OF MASSACHUSETTS.

New-York, April 19, 1775.

Gentlemen : The following very interesting accounts
were this day received by the Snow General Johnson, Cap-
tain Dean, in thirty-one days from England. The writer
is a person of undoubted veracity and has the best means
of intelligence, who may be depended on, having for these
twelve months always furnished the most certain advice of
the Ministers' designs, &c. In consideration of which, and
the present posture of affairs in America in general, but
more particularly on account of the situation of your Prov-
ince, and the consequences to which it is more immedi-
ately liable, it is thought an indispensable duty to give you
this late advice. It is unfeignedly wished that you may
improve it to your own safety, as well as to the advantages
of the whole Continent. We have the honour to be, with
great respect, your obedient servants,

Henry Remsen, Deputy Chairman.

EXTRACTS OF LETTERS, &C

" London, February 24, 1775.

" Providence seems to have placed me here in order to
give you the earliest intelligence of the most interesting
affairs relative to the Colonies.

" To my great astonishment, I have now before me an
Act for blocking up the other Colonies, and another called
the Black Act, to prevent the Fisheries. The whole Na-
tion seems to be deeply affected at such an enormous
crime ; which is supposed to be done at the request of the
King and his creatures. God forbid that you should be
intimidated at this iniquitous law, which is calculated to
ruin what was a mutual benefit to you and us. This must
convince you what you are to expect, if you submit to the
most shocking set of men that England can produce. You
now see their humanity. Rouse up, then, with a just in-
dignation, and exercise your Militia. Watch your Gover-
nour and Council. The new Assembly is to be composed
of such creatures as will give up the people's rights, and
join in the most horrid plot against then). What a melan-
choly reflection, that the riches and trade of a great Na-
tion should be abused, and turned to the destruction of
themselves and the Colonies! In short, the King is de-
termined to be as absolute as the French King; and with
the most obstinate head and bad heart, has set himself
against the people, whom he will not see, keeping himself
retired from his subjects in pride and ignorance. He has
discarded men of veracity from all places of profit, and
filled their offices with a set of the most abandoned villains
on earth. These are they who advised him to break his
oath with the people, for which they are despised by the
Nation. If you hold out a few months, England will rise
and do you justice, as well as relieve themselves from those

845

CORRESPONDENCE, PROCEEDINGS, &c, APRIL, 1775.

346

accursed tyrants who want to corrupt you and deprive you
of both liberty and property. There are two bundled and
eighty-five Members of Parliament, who are all paid with
the people's money to vote whatever Lord North proposes,
and he has his lesson from eight more who compose a club,
that meets in the most private manner in the night at Mrs.
Keen's, near the Palace, where they have a box, which
contains the papers that pass between His Majesty and
them. The King overlooks the schemes, and corrects
them; as well as gives orders how to proceed for the fu-
ture. Hutchinson is consulted, and to the shame of Go-
vernours Cohlen, Penn, and Martin, who have written such
letters to Lord Dartmouth, that the King has appointed
them to meet at New-York, in order to join with your
other lying spirits in betraying the Colonies: to complete
which villany Lord North has made a motion in Parlia-
ment, as if he intended to promote peace with the Colo-
nies ; but it is to deceive them, and the people of England
too. It is intended to defeat the salutary advice of the
Congress, which does credit to British America. Set the
Press immediately to work, and publish to the world the
wicked designs of the King and his Counsellors, that you
despise their slavish schemes, and are determined to pre-
serve your laws and religion. Encourage the brave
people of Massachusetts- Bay to act worthy of their noble
ancestors ! I have the pleasure to assure you, that the
noble Lords with whom I have conversed, all join you in
contempt of the junto here. You are desired to let the
Colonies know that there is a deep plot formed to divide
them and deceive the people into a compliance. But tell
them that you want not their trade nor protection at the
expense of your liberty. You'll see by the papers the
treatment Lord Chatham's plan met with. Those Lords
who advised the King to declare you rebels, and apprehend
Messrs. Hancock, Adams, &tc, &.C., have gone so far as
to say that Chatham shall fall a sacrifice to their designs,
Sic. I know there is publick virtue among you ; I know
your fondness for England will not let you believe the
wicked designs that are meditating against you ; but I do
now, in the presence of God, warn you that the King has
no good intentions toward you, but what you oblige him by
your own wisdom and virtue to have. Take care of your-
selves, and act as the wise and brave have done in all ages
when oppressed by tyrants. Resist unto blood all who attempt
to betray you. The Parliament have registered Colden's
and Penn's letters; look to them, and see for yourselves.
Believe the Court your worst enemies. Be much on your
guard. Yesterday Doctor Fothergill and Mr. Barclay
were so pressed in spirit that they went to see Lord North,
and told him that the Bill for prohibiting the Fisheries was
so horrid and inhuman that the whole Nation would rise
and oppose it ; and that if it did pass into a law, it would
be a scandal to humanity, and, perhaps, occasion a revolt.
They plead two hours with him, but to no purpose. The
Bill is to be read a third time on Tuesday ; so that in five
days this horrid Bill passes into a law without any further
consideration. Oh, America! Oh, England! The
Ministry, in order to quiet the mob, ordered an inflamma-
tory pamphlet to be burnt at Guildhall, which drew off
the people while the Bill passed in Parliament, &ic. A
report is sent into the City that the Transports are stopped.
This is to quiet the Merchants ; but the Officers are gone
down in private coaches of other people, and America is
to be divided and driven into compliance before England
is apprized of it. Lord North has just given out that he will
resign, and at the same time says, that he fears nothing
from the people, unless it be the breaking of his coach
doors, or some such trifle ; no resistance of importance
from the City, only a clamour, which he has often expe-
rienced. He expects that this manoeuvre will quiet the
people on both sides of the water.

" Goods are shipped in the Transports with the Officers'
Baggage, marked Rex, and under the protection of the
King's Troops, who are to land them and protect the trade,
&.c. North- Carolina is to be a store-house, it is said.
Support iLt Committee, and watch the Officers of the
Customs, &ic. Your friends are afraid that you will be
surprised into a compliance. The offers of peace were
only to raise the Stocks, which had fallen ; they are four
per cent, higher on account of the report. The Council
sat up all night, in order to find out ways and means to

conquer Virginia and procure Tobacco ; great offers
will be made to those who will raise it, k.c. Men of
large fortunes are afraid to oppose Government, lest the
Bank should fail, which is said to be in danger. The in-
terest on the year '74 is not paid. Many of the people
are your most hearty friends, but the King is your greatest
enemy. Be not deceived by his low cunning ; act wisely,
and the wicked and cursed plot will break on the heads of
those who want to destroy you. The King is his own
Secretary; he gets up at six o'clock every morning, sends
off his box with remarks on a bit of paper tied round each
order; four of the ablest lawyers are constantly with him,
whose business it is to advise and search for precedents, to
screen his head and throw the blame on the Parliament.
Two millions have been squandered in bribery and corrup-
tion. The Crown has nothing to fear but the hunger of
the poor. A steady adherence to the proceedings of the
Congress will save England and America. Beware of
Governour Penn, who has had offers made him to comply
with the designs of the Court. Send this to Boston im-
mediately. Mr. Hancock's lands are already divided among
the Officers, &ic. Lord Dartmouth is your bitter enemy,
and determined to destroy the liberties of America. Lord
Chatham, Lord Camden, the Duke of Richmond, and all
the wise wish that you may attend to the advice of the
Congress."

Extract from a different person, dated March Sd: —

" Part of the Troops now ordered for embarkation here
and Ireland, are to rendezvous at New- York, to make it
a place of Arms, securing the defection of that Province
from the general alliance in the cause of freedom and every
thing that is dear to man ; and to prevent the communication
between Virginia, Maryland, and the other Southern Co-
lonies, with Neiv-England, when General Gage, with such
assistance as he may get from New-York, is to subdue
these Colonies by a Garrison-Town and place of Arms,
with the assistance of Quebeck, to rule with a rod of iron
all the slaves of America. Without the concurrence of
New-York this scheme can never be carried into execu-
tion, of which every gentleman and man of knowledge in
this Kingdom is fully convinced ; therefore, on your virtue,
in a great measure, it depends whether America shall be
free, or be reduced to the most abject and oppressive ser-
vitude-, worse than that of Egyptian bondage ; in which
you must inevitably be involved, if you lend your aid to en-
slave your brethren in the other Colonies. I have to in-
form you that the Bill for preventing the four Colonies of
New-England from Fishing, getting Provisions from the
other Colonies, or carrying on any Commerce whatever
to any part of the world except Great Britain, Ireland,
or the British West-Indies, will finally pass the House of
Commons to-morrow, and is to take place the first of next
July. You may also depend that in a few days another
Bill will be brought in to prohibit any of the other Colo-
nies from carrying on any Trade whatever with each other,
or to any other part of the world, except to Great Britain,
Ireland, or the British West-Indies, which will probably
take place in July also ; therefore you will act accord-
ingly, and let this be publickly known."

Extract of another Letter, dated London, March 1 :
"The measures of the Ministry will, I hope, do more
towards uniting the Colonies, than any efforts of America
itself. You will easily perceive their wicked intentions to
divide, as well as their designs after that hoped-for division.
They have high hopes of success from the last accounts
from New-York. 1 trust the people of that Province will
soon displace those rascally and treacherous Tories in your
Assembly, who dare thus negatively encourage the system
of despotism now adopted for your Government. The
wisdom of the Congress and the firmness of the people
give the strongest assurances of future conduct. Several
names are made use of here as authorities to warrant the
defection of America. (I can give you such as I have
heard ; their conduct will best determine whether the idea

is well founded : The De ys, J , W , Smith,

J Q y, J R , &c, &c. They most

assuredly correspond with some ministerial people here,
and though great care is taken to conceal, yet the men are
too evidently marked to be totally unknown.) Pray print

347

CORRESPONDENCE, PROCEEDIINGS, &x., APRIL, 1775.

848

this short hint for the observation of the honest men among
vou. 1 need not attempt to expose the baseness or folly
of the present men in office, for they take care to do it
themselves."

The foregoing were at first intended only to be commu-
nicated to the inhabitants of Massachusetts-Bay, &.c. But
on more consideration it was judged best to inform those of
Connecticut also, leaving them to forward the accounts to
Concord with the utmost despatch.

IIknky Remsen, Deputy Chairman.

TO THE RESPECTABLE PUBL1CK.

New.York, April 19, 1775.
When the character of a fellow-citizen is basely traduced,
his injuries become a common cause, in defence of which,
every virtuous member of society will be an advocate.
The insignificance of some enemies, indeed, secures them
from resentment ; and while they confine their calumny
within the sphere wherein they are known, contempt is the
only proper return for their malice. But when they make
a publick newspaper the vehicle of their scandal, a more
formal defence becomes necessary.

In Mr. Holt's paper of the 13th instant, are published
the proceedings of a set of people, assembled at the Liberty
Pole, on Thursday, the 6th instant, in which is contained
a declaration, that " Messrs. William and Henry Ustick are
inveterate foes to American freedom." This, it seems,
passed almost unanimously, upon the motion of a certain
person, who is not named, to a Chairman, likewise not
named. This concealment would entitle these little pa-
triots to some credit for their modesty, if they had not
known that the publication of their names would have de-
feated their malice ; the gratification of which, it seems,
they have preferred, to the pride of seeing themselves in
print. They have, however, artfully engrafted in their pro-
ceedings, an advertisement, subscribed by the Chairman of
the Committee, from which the inattentive reader would be
led to conclude, that they were the proceedings of that
body ; which, however, was not the fact.

The peace and orderly state of the Town having given
great offence to this little set of heroes, they made various
efforts to rouse the citizens into action ; and the Messrs.
Usticks were to be the victims of their little rage. Several
attempts to collect the Town together, failed ; though on
every such occasion, they resolved that their meetings had
been very useful, and the glorious means of defeating the
Tories.

It was reserved, however, for the meeting at the Liberty
Pole to strike the important blow, and the actors were
worthy of the farce, whose names shall be held up to the
publick in some future paper.

Although the Usticks are confident that this City will never
suffer the rule and government of it to be committed into
such hands, and that they never will submit to the inqui-
sition they would establish here, yet they are actuated by a
very sincere desire of retaining the good opinion of every
friend to liberty. They are bold to say, that the charge
against them of their being foes to freedom, is false ; and
as they have not transgressed any of the laws of their
Country, so neither have they violated any part of the As-
sociation of the Congress. Upon what principles then are
they to be held up to the respectable publick, by these
paltry sons of mischief, as enemies to their Country ? Must
they be deprived of the exercise of the trade, by which
they earn their bread? Must they be precluded from the
benefits of a manufactory which they have carried on
under so many difficulties and discouragements, and which
will be so extremely useful to the Country? Why was not a
clamour raised when a certain person shipped such quan-
tities of Flour to the Army? For if they must be con-
sidered as enemies, surely the best way would be to starve
them at once, and thereby prevent them most effectually
from doing mischief. No, my fellow-citizens, this is but
the pretended reason. The true motive is to make every
trader, but the chosen few, odious to the people in the
Country, and thereby to engross the whole custom to them-
selves. Upon this principle it is, that by stigmatizing a
number of worthy friends of liberty with the name of To-
ries, these restless people have so far deluded many Country

traders, as to withdraw their custom from them, and even
prevented boatmen from carrying up goods which have not
got a clearance from them.

New-York, April 19, 1775.

Mr. Rivington: Be pleased to insert the following in
your Paper, and if any person conceives himself injured
by any thing contained" in it, the facts shall be publickly
proved by the most unexceptionable evidence.

That the tranquillity of this City and Province has long
given great umbrage to a set of folks among us, must have
been evident from the frequent buzzings of these little
harmless insects, who have at length made a feeble essay
to sting as well as make a noise. Sensible that in a calm
they must grovel in the dirt, they have tried to raise a storm,
by which they hope to be elevated into notice.

On Wednesday, the 5th instant, the Committee of In-
spection published an advertisement, in which they declare,
with respect to Nails, " That though the manufactures
which have been since (the last non-importation) estab-
lished, will supply more than sufficient for our own con-
sumption, we apprehend it would be imprudent thus rashly
to part with what we have in store ; especially as this sud-
den exportation has given just grounds for sufficient alarm."

No sooner did this notice appear in publick, than a cer-
tain set, in consequence of it, (the direction being to the
respectable inhabitants,) assembled first at Philips's Beer-
house, next at Bardin's, then at the Liberty Pole, and
lastly, at Van l)er Water's ; at which several meetings
(tremble, Lord North, and be dismayed, ye Tories!) Mr.
Marinus Willet, and Mr. John Lamb, were Chairmen.

Having despatched the poor Usticks, by a vote that they
were foes to their Country, entered into upon the motion
of Mr. James Alncr, a new and important subject arose
for debate. It was suggested that Mr. Ralph Thurman
had been employed in packing Straw, and Mr. Robert
Harding, in purchasing Boards, to be sent to Boston.
This was a heinous crime ; and a Committee was ordered,
from the body assembled on the — instant, to wait on those
two traitors to their Country. Mr. Harding was out, so
that he was spared for that night ; but, unfortunately, his
daughter was at home, and, terrified at the formidable ap-
pearance, fell into fits. This, however, was a trifling con-
sideration to men engaged in the cause of liberty. Mr.
Thurman, it seems, was so obstinate, and such an invete-
rate foe to his Country, that he presumed to call in ques-
tion the power of this body to interfere with his piivate
affairs. Unpardonable impudence!

At this meeting, which was duly notified, very few at-
tended; but although Captain Sears complained that he
was deserted while he was engaged in the grand cause, yet
'tis evident that fortune conspired to make his glory the
more conspicuous, as if determined that none should de-
prive him of the honour of a motion he made, which was,
that " every man should provide himself with four-and-
twenty rounds."

Another meeting, however, was, by adjournment, fixed
upon for Saturday, the 15th instant, at the Liberty Pole.
Meanwhile, complaint being made of these proceedings, as
disorderly and a breach of law, the Magistrates issued a
warrant against Captain Sears; he was apprehended and
carried before the Mayor. Bail was demanded, but this
being a violation of liberty, was refused. A mittimus was
therefore issued, and the illustrious prisoner carried towards
the Jail. But this was the height of arbitrary power;
the very quintessence of toryism ; and as it would doubt-
less have given Lord North great pleasure, it was not to be
endured ; the Captain was therefore set at liberty from the
officers of justice, and led in triumph through the Town.

Accompanied by a number of his friends, with colours
flying, the Captain proceeded through the Fly, Wall-street,
and Broadway, to the Liberty Pole. Among those who
were near him, were Mr. hers, Mr. Alner, Mr. Richard
Livingston, and Mr. Roorbach.

At six o'clock, the Captain, attended with a large crowd,
mounted a rostrum prepared for him in the Frclds, from
whence, like the Devil in Milton, " By merit raised to that
bad eminence," he opened the business by a circumstantial
recapitulation of facts, of which his own merit, the good
he had done, and the evils he had averted, made a con-
siderable part. At length, the following question was put:

349

CORRESPONDENCE, PROCEEDINGS, he, APRIL, 1775.

350

" Whether a Son of Liberty ought to give bail or not?"
which was carried in the negative. This occasioned three
huzzas, in which Captain Alexander McDougall, who was
near Captain Sears, bore no small part. It should not be
omitted, that when Captain Sears had done, Mr. Pardon
Burlingham mounted the stage, and harangued the people,
and recommended going to the delinquents for satisfaction.

From the Fields they repaired to Thurmaii's and Ilard-
ings, and endeavoured to extort confessions from them that
they had done wrong, and to prevail on them to ask pardon.
These gentlemen refused both ; insisting, that as they had
been guilty of no violation of any law, agreement, or asso-
ciation, they would sooner die than ask pardon.

For fear of being too prolix, I shall omit the exploit to
Turtle-Bay, the march to the Transport, in the North-
River, in consequence of which she was cut off from the
wharf, and the huzzaing through the town, and cry of no
boards ! at the Albany Pier, which being on the evening
of Captain Lawrence's arrival, doubtless proceeded from
their joy on the good tidings he brought, and is a mark of
their gratitude, and a proof that they are actuated by no-
thing but the pure dictates of liberty.*

The above contains a narrative of the transactions which
have disturbed the Town for a fortnight past, and which I
desire, Mr. Rivington, you will not omit inserting in your
paper ; for while the most seditious and inflammatory pa-
pers are daily published, tending to alienate the minds of
the people from our gracious King, (one of which is now
circulating about the City, and read with avidity by those
who have proscribed your paper, because some of yourcor-
respondents presume to think and write for themselves,) a
customer claims it as a right to hold up these matters to the
publick. While we are determined to contend against the
tyranny of the British Parliament and Ministry, let us not
establish the sway of a mob, which includes despotism, the
most cruel and severe of all others. Many fellow-citizens
have been deluded by the cry of liberty, which has been
held up to them as the reason for these violences. They
are now undeceived; but so daring a violation of the good
order and police of the City, so flagitious an insult on Ma-
gistracy, and contempt of the laws, ought not to be passed
over with impunity ; for let us remember, that the restraints
of the law are the security of liberty.

Anti-Licentiousness.

REVEREND SAMUEL AUCHMUTY TO CAPTAIN MONTRESOR,
CHIEF-ENGINEER IN GEN. GAGe's ARMY AT BOSTON.

New- York, April 19, 1775.

My dear Sir : Yesterday Captain Coupar arrived from
London; Rivington, I conclude, will have all the news in
his paper, but for fear you should not get his paper in
time, I send you some extracts from a letter I received
from undoubted authority, which may be depended upon.
It is dated London, March 4th, 1775.

" I congratulate you heartily on the spirited and prudent
conduct of your Assembly. Their proceedings are uni-
versally applauded by the people of this Country. Envy
dares not lisp against them, and Faction hides its face with
shameful disappointment. Pursue the same path, and your
Provinces will be honoured with every mark of distinction
from this Country. His Majesty is already disposed to
grant you every honourable favour that can be proposed.
I am happy that the Clergy under your direction have con-
ducted themselves so prudently and successfully, and hope
that the Church, for the labour of her sons, will not be
forgotten.

" The Resolution suggested by Lord North will, I flat-
ter myself, have a happy effect at New- York. It pro-
poses to the Colonies all they can reasonably ask. They
desired to be taxed by their own Representatives ; it will
be granted them. Leave it to our Assemblies (they said)
and we will sufficiently tax ourselves, and contribute to the
common expenses. The Parliament accepts the promises,
and invites them by this Resolution to propose what they
will give and grant for the necessary contingencies of the

* Tho Packet Earl of Dunmore, Captain Lawrence, arrived at New-
York on Tuesday, April 11, 1775. By this Vessel was received the
London Gazette of February 11, containing the Address of tho two
Houses of Parliament to tho King, adopted on the 7th, and presented
to tho Kin^ on tho 9th of February.

State, and their own Civil Establishment. While they
fulfil their engagements, Parliament will not interfere to
tax them ; when they refuse to bear a part in supporting
the common burthen, the supreme Legislature will compel
the delinquent Colony to its duty. Thus every reasona-
ble indulgence is offered to you, and every necessary power
reserved to Parliament. If you reject this proposition of
peace and reconciliation, the Nation will be convinced that
you are determined to agree on no terms of accommodation.

" The Armament which will speedily embark for Boston
will convince the refractory among you, that this Nation will
not be trifled with. It is uncertain who will be your Gov-
ernour, the King being resolved to appoint one himself;
Governour Mai-tin of North- Carolina is talked of."

Thus I have given you all the news that I at present
know, which may be depended upon. Coupar says, that
thirty-odd sail of Transports sailed for Ireland the same
day with him, and that many more Transports were taken
up daily. This is terrible news for my poor distressed,
oppressed, injured countrymen. I must own I was born
among the saints and rebels, but it was my misfortune.
Where are your Congresses now ? What say Hancock,
Adams, and all their rebellious followers ? Are they still
bold ? I trow not.

We have lately been plagued with a rascally Whig mob
here, but they have effected nothing, only Sears, the King,
was rescued at the Jail door. He was ordered there by
the Magistrates upon his refusing to give bail for being
guilty of misdemeanors, &,c. Our Magistrates have not
the spirit of a louse ; however, I prognosticate it will not
be long before he is handled by authority.

I am, &c.

Samuel Auchmuty.*

* Salem, Mass., May 18, 1775. — From such servilo wretches as the
author of the above letter, do the British Administration receive infor-
mations relative to the state of America; and by such informations do
they govern their conduct with respect to it ; no wonder then that they
discover so much folly, imbecility, and irresolution in all their mea-
sures.

His zeal for the Church had, it seems, influenced the past conduct
of this would-be right reverend author and some of his Tory brethren
of the Clergy in the Province of New-York. In order to engage their
further labours in this good cause, his correspondent in England en-
courages him and them to hope for the recompense of reward ; that
they should soon receive an ample retribution for all their toil and
labour in the service of the Ministry. Theso are the baits held out
to the tuols of power, and these are sufficient to induce some among
us to sacrifice the liberty of this Country, and to rejoice with infernal
satisfaction at seeing the land which gave them birth stained with the
blood of its slaughtered inhabitants.

The correspondent of this Reverend gentleman talks much of the
conciliating proposal made by Lord North, and asserts that the Colo-
nists will be universally condemned if they do not comply with it ; but
tho least observation must convince us that this proposal was no other
than a flimsy State trick of this wise Minister, and did not, in reality,
remove any grievance of which tho Americans complained. According
to this proposal the Parliament of Great Britain is to demand a cer-
tain sum in bulk of the Continent of America, but each Assembly is
to have the power of adjusting the particular method in which its pro-
portion shall be raised ; but if it refuses to pay as much as the Parlia-
ment demands or shall demand, it is to be dragooned into obedience;
all the liberty allowed to the Colonies is to determine how they will
raise the sum taxed, without allowing them the liberty of judging
whether they ought to be taxed or no ; so that the power of taxation
remains virtually and truly in the British Parliament still, and the
Colonies are only flattered with an appearance of freedom. The pro-
posal was designed as a bait to draw off our friends in Gfeat Britain,
and to dissolve the union of America; but it is seen through by both,
and wiU most assuredly be treated by them with the contempt it
deserves.

What must bo the heart of the man who can jest, as doth this exe-
crable Clergyman, with tho miseries of his Country, and can exult at
the thought of its being drenched in blood : the prospect of the arrival
of Troops to answer this purpose affords him matter of triumph. This
is a Tory Clergyman ; to such men as these, our countrymen, (if we
prevent them not by our own valorous exertions,) must we pay tithes
of all that we possess ; to such men as these must we become hewers
of wood and drawers of water ! Who can endure even the distant idea
of such a state ? what then must it be to feel and to groan under it !

It hath been the misfortune of this Province to produce many such
vermin as the author of this letter, many who have acted the part of
parricides to their Country, and who would sacrifice that, together with
their consciences, to their ambition and avarice ; but we may comfort
ourselves with the reflection, that it hath produced a long list of patriots,
who are now straining every nerve to secure her freedom, and who will
sacrifico their lives rather than that the schemes of such traitors as the
author of this letter should succeed.

The ever.memorablo nineteenth of April gave an answer to tho
questions so often asked by the enomics of American freedom, and
among the rest by this little tool of power : what think ye of the Con-
gross now ? That day showed the efficacy of the Resolutions of that
illustrious body, and evidenced that Americans would rathor die than
livo slaves ! A Hancock and an Adams, with the other patriots,
whose names will bo handed down, with everlasting honour, to pos-
terity, still retain their invincible firmness ; and in despite of British
Fleets and Armies, under tho assured protection of their God, will
secure tho froedom and happiness of America.

351

NEW-YORK PROVINCIAL CONVENTION, APRIL, 1775.

352

NEW-YORK PROVINCIAL CONVENTION.
Minutes of the Provincial Convention of New-York.

City of New. York, April, 20, 1775.

The Deputies hereinafter named, from the following

Counties, assembled at the Exchange in this City, for the

purpose of forming a Provincial Convention, viz:

City and County of New-Yokk. — Philip Livingston,
Esquire, John Alsop, Esquire, James Duanc, Esquire,
John Jay, Esquire, Colonel Leonard Lispenard, .Mr.
Francis Lewis, Mr. Abraham Walton, Mr. Isaac Roo-
sevelt, Mr. Alexander McDougall, and Mr. Abraham
Brasher.

City and County of Albany. — Colonel Philip Schuy-
ler, Colonel Abraham Ten liroeck, and Abraham
Yates, Junior, Esquire.

L lstf.r County. — Charles De Witt, George Clinton,
and Levy Pawling, Esquires.

Orange County. — Colonel A. Hawkes Hay, Henry
Wisner, Esquire, John Herring, Esquire, Mr. Peter
Clowes, and Mr. Israel Seely.

Westchester County. — Colonel Lewis Morris, John
Thomas, Junior, Esquire, Robert Graham, Esquire,
Major Philip Van Cortlandt, Samuel Drake, Esquire,
and Mr. Stephen Ward. %

Dutchess County. — Colonel Morris Graham, Major
Robert R. Livingston, Junior, and Egbert Benson,
Esquire.

King's County. — Simon Boerum, Esquire, Captain Rich-
ard Stillwell, Mr. Theodorus Polhemus, Mr. Denice
Denice, and Mr. John Vanderbilt.

Suffolk County. — Colonel William Floyd, Colonel Na-
thaniel Woodhull, Colonel Phineas Fanning, Thomas
Tredwell, Esquire, and John Sloss Hobart, Esquire.

New-Town and Flushing, in Queen's County. — Col-
onel Jacob Blackwell and Mr. John Talman.

The Convention unanimously chose Philip Livingston,
Esquire, to be their President.

Ordered, That the sense of this Convention, upon every
question, be taken and determined by the majority of the
votes of the Counties here represented.

That the votes of the City and County of New-York be
considered as four; the City and County of Albany as
three; and that of each of the other Counties, respective-
ly, as two; and that this arrangement shall not, upon any
future occasion, be drawn into precedent.

The Convention then unanimously elected John Mc-
Kesson, Esquire, to be their Secretary.

The Deputies of the City and County of New-York
produced the poll-lists taken the fifteenth day of March
last, in each Ward of the said City, certified under the
hands of the Vestrymen of the respective Wards, and
others before whom they were taken, by which it appears
that Philip Livingston, John Alsop, James Duane, John
Jay, Leonard Lispenard, Esquires, Messrs. Francis Lewis,
Abraham Walton, Isaac Roosevelt, Alexander McDougall,
and Abraham Brasher, all now present, together with Mr.
Isaac Low, who is not present, were elected by a very
great majority of voices to be the Deputies of the said City
and County of New-York, for the sole purpose of appoint-
ing Delegates to attend the next Continental Congress, to
meet at Philadelphia, on the 10th day of May next.

Colonel Philip Schuyler, Colonel Abraham Ten Broeck,
and Abraham Yates, Junior, Esquire, produced a Certifi-
cate subscribed by John N Bleecker, Clerk of the Com-
mittee of Correspondence for the City and County of Al-
bany, certifying that they, together with Colonel Peter R.
Livingston and Waller Livingston, Esquire, were unani-
mously elected by the said Committee, (which Committee
was expressly empowered for that purposo,) as Deputies
for the City and County of Albany, to attend the Provin-
cial Convention to be held in the City of New-York on
this day, for the purpose of choosing Delegates to repre-
sent this Colony in the next Continental Congress, to meet
at Philadelphia, on the lOtli day of May next, which Cer-
tificate bears date at Albany on the twenty-first day of
March last pint ; and being read and accepted, is filed with
the Secretary.

Charles De Witt, George Clinton, and Levy raiding,
Esquires, produced a Certificate bearing date the seventh

day of April instant, subscribed by Colonel Johannes Har-
denbergh, Chairman or President of all the Committees of
the respective Towns and Precincts in Ulster County,
(except the Towns of Rochester and Mamacoting) which
several Committees were therein named, and declared to
have been elected and appointed to meet, nominate, and
appoint Deputies for the said County, to serve in Provin-
cial Convention at the City of New-York, on this day, or
at such other time and place as might be agreed on ; and
were then assembled at the Ncw-Paltz, in the said Coun-
ty, for that purpose. And the said Credentials certify that
they the said Charles De Witt, George Clinton, and Levy
Pawling, Esquires, were unanimously elected by all the
said Committees, as Deputies for the said County of Ulster,
to attend the Provincial Convention to be held at the City
of New- York, on this day, or at such other time and place
as may be agreed on, for the purpose of electing Delegates
to represent this Colony in the Continental Congress, to
meet at Philadelphia, on the tenth day of May next, or
at such other time and place as may be agreed on for that
purpose. The same gentlemen from Ulster County also
produced a Letter signed by Jacob Hoornbeck and Jockum
Schoonmaker, (the Committee elected by the said Town
of Rochester,) bearing date at Rochester the eleventh day
of April instant, consenting to and approving of the ap-
pointment of the said gentlemen, and reposing the same
trust in them as the other Towns and Precincts in the said
County of Ulster had done. And the said Credentials
being read and approved of by this Convention, are filed
with the Secretary.

The Convention then adjourned to 5 o'clock, P. M.

Five o'clock, P. M., April 20, 1775.
The Convention met pursuant to adjournment. Present :

City and County of New-York. — Philip Livingston,
Esquire, President, Messrs, Francis Lewis, Alexander
McDougall, Abraham Brasher, John Jay, Esquire,
Leonard Lispenard, Esquire, Messrs. Isaac Roosevelt,
and Abraham Walton.

City and County of Albany. — Abraham Yates, Junior,
Esquire, Colonel Philip Schuyler, and Colonel Abra-
ham Ten Broeck.

Ulster County. — Charles De Witt, George Clinton,
and Levy Pawling, Esquires.

Orange County. — Colonel A. Hawkes Hay, Henry
IVisner, Esquire, John Herring, Esquire, Mr. Peter
Clowes, and Mr. Israel Seely.

Westchester County. — Colonel Lewis Morris, John
Thomas, Junior, Esquire, Robert, Graham, Esquire,
Major Philip Van Cortlandt, Samuel Drake, Esquire,
and Mr. Stephen Ward.

Dutchess County. — Colonel Morris Graham, Major
Robert R. Livingston, Junior, and Egbert Benson,
Esquire.

King's County. — Simon Boerum, Theodorus Polhemus,
Esquires, and Mr. John Vanderbilt.

Suffolk County. — Colonel William Floyd, Colonel Na-
thaniel Woodhull, John Sloss Hobart, Esquire, Thomas
Tredwell, Esquire, and Colonel Phineas Fanning.

Flushing and Jamaica, in Queen's County. — Mr.
John Talman and Mr. Joseph Robinson.

The Deputies for Orange County produced here several
Credentials from the respective Towns and Precincts in
that County, in substance as follows, to wit : A Certificate
signed by Gilbert Cooper, Clerk, setting forth that at a
Town-Meeting of the Precinct of Haverstraw, in the said
County of Orange, held at the New-City, on Tuesday, the
fourth day of April instant, it was —

Resolved, 1st. That that meeting did highly approve of
a Convention of Deputies from the different Counties, to
meet at the City of Neiv- York on litis day, for the purpose
of choosing Delegates for the next Continental Congress,
to be held at Philadelphia in the month of May next,
as the most effectual means to promote the honour and
happiness of the Colony, and to unite the Colony in the
common cause, for the preservation of our rights and liber-
ties; and,

2dly. That it was then and there resolved that Colonel
A. Hawkes Hay should be, and was thereby appointed a
Deputy to represent that Precinct at such Provincial Con-

353

NEW- YORK PROVINCIAL CONVENTION, APRIL, 1775.

354

vention, to meet at the City of New-York on this day ;
and was thereby authorized and appointed to join with the
Deputies who should meet in such Convention, in the ap-
pointment of Delegates to represent this Colony in the
next Continental Congress ; and also to concur with the
said Deputies in such other measures as might be thought
necessary to promote the honour, happiness, and interest of
this Colony.

Secondly. The same gentlemen, Deputies for Orange
County, produced a Certificate signed by Daniel Everett,
Precinct Clerk of the Precinct of Goshen, in the said
County, certifying, that at an annual Town-Meeting held
at Goshen, in and for the Precinct of Goshen, on Tuesday,
the fourth day of April instant, it was moved, and unani-
mously voted in the affirmative, that Henry JVisner and
Peter Clowes, Esquires, be appointed Deputies for the
said Precinct of Goshen, to meet such other Deputies as
should be appointed by other parts of the Colony, in a
Provincial Convention, to be held in the City of New-
York on this day, for the purpose of electing Delegates
for the next Continental Congress, to be held at Philadel-
phia on the tenth day of May next.

Thirdly. The said Deputies for Orange County pro-
duced a Certificate subscribed by Thomas Outwatcr, Town
Clerk, setting forth that a meeting of the Freeholders of the
Town of Orange, in Orange County, was held at the
house of Jost Mabee, in the said Town, on the 17th day
of April instant, agreeable to notice given, and request
made by publick advertisements for that purpose. That
the freeholders then and there assembled, took into con-
sideration the necessity of their being duly and properly
represented in the Provincial Convention, to be held at the
City of New- York on this twentieth day of April, for the
purpose of electing and appointing Delegates to represent
this Colony of New- York in the next Continental Con-
gress, to be held in the City of Philadelphia on the tenth
day of May next. That the question was put, Whether
the Freeholders there assembled should send a Deputy to
represent the said Town of Orange at this Convention ?
And that the same was carried in the affirmative. And
therein also setting forth and certifying, that it was there-
upon voted and ordered, that John Herring,. Esquire,
should be a Deputy for the said Town of Orange, to re-
present the said Town in this Convention ; and that he
act and vote on behalf of the inhabitants thereof, in all
such matters and things as should, by the said Convention,
be taken into consideration.

Lastly. The said Deputies from Orange County pro-
duced a Certificate signed by Jesse Woodhidl, Esquire, set-
ting forth, that at an annual meeting of the Freeholders and
inhabitants of the Precinct of Cornwall, in the said Coun-
ty, held at the house of John Brewster, in Blooming-
grove, on the fourth day of April instant, the said Jesse
Woodhull, Esquire, was chosen Moderator. That the said
Freeholders then proceeded to take into consideration a Let-
ter from the Committee of the City and County of New-
York, signed by Isaac Low, their Chairman, recommend-
ing the choosing of Deputies for the several Counties in
this Colony, to meet in Provincial Convention at the City
of New-York, on this twentieth day of April, for the sole
purpose of choosing Delegates to represent this Colony in
the next Continental Congress, to be held at Philadelphia
on the tenth day of May next ensuing. That it was then
proposed to the said Freeholders, whether the subject-mat-
ter of the said Letter should be taken into consideration im-
mediately, or postponed to another day ; and that debates
arising thereon, and the question being put, it was voted
by a large majority, that the subject-matter of the said Let-
ter should be considered immediately. That it was then
proposed to the said Freeholders, whether a Deputy should
be sent from that Precinct to this Convention, or not ? And
that debates arising thereon, and the question being put, it
was carried in the affirmative by a large majority.

And the said Certificate sets forth and certifies, that Mr.
Israel Seely was then and there chosen as one of the De-
puties of that County for the purposes aforesaid.

And all the said Credentials and Certificates produced
by the said Deputies for Orange County being read and
approved of, and accepted by this Convention, are filed
with the Secretary.

Fourth Series. — Vol. ii. 23

Colonel Lewis Morris, Mr. Stephen Ward, Samvel
Drake, Esquire, John Thomas, Junior, Esquire, Robert
Graham, Esquire, and Major Philip Van Cortlandt, the
Deputies from Westchester County, produced Credentials
bearing date at the White-Plains, in Westchester County,
on the eleventh day of April instant, signed by Lewis
Morris, Chairman, therein reciting and setting forth, that
on the twenty-eighth day of March last past, a number of
gentlemen therein particularly named, from different Dis-
tricts in the County of Westchester , having received Letters
from the Chairman of the Committee of the City and
County of New-York relative to the appointment of De-
puties for the County of Westchester, to this Convention,
met at the White-Plains aforesaid, for the purpose of de-
vising means to take the sense of the people of the County
upon the subject. That they had sent Letters of Notifica-
tion to the principal Freeholders in the different Towns
and Districts in the County, acquainting them that they
had then met to consider of the most proper method to
obtain the sense of the Freeholders of the County upon
the expediency of choosing Deputies to meet the Deputies
of the other Counties, for the purpose of electing Dele-
gates to represent this Colony in the Continental Congress,
to be held at Philadelphia on the tenth day of May next ;
and therein recommending a general meeting of the Free-
holders of the said County, to be held at the White-
Plains, on Tuesday, the eleventh day of April instant, at
ten of the clock in the forenoon, at the Court-House ; and
therein and thereby requesting each such principal Free-
holder to give notice of the said meeting to all the Free-
holders in his District, without exception, as those who did
not appear and vote on that day, would be presumed to
acquiesce in the sentiments of the majority of those who
should vote. And therein also further setting forth and
certifying, that such notices as aforesaid had been generally
given and distributed ; and that a very numerous body of
the Freeholders of the County had assembled at the Court-
House at the White-Plains, on the said eleventh day of
April instant, in pursuance thereof, and chose Colonel
Lewis Morris for their Chairman. That an inconsidera-
ble number of persons, (among whom were many tenants
not entitled to a vote,) with Isaac Wilkins, Esquire, and
Colonel Philipse at their head, then appeared ; and Mr.
Wilkins, in their behalf, as he said, declared that they
would not join in the business of the day, or have any thing
to do with Deputies or Congresses ; but that they came
there for the sole purpose of protesting against such illegal
and unconstitutional proceedings ; after which they de-
parted.

That the following question was then put to the Free-
holders by the Chairman, viz : Whether they would ap-
point Deputies for the County of Westchester, to meet the
Deputies of the other Counties at the City of New- York,
on the twentieth day of April then instant, for the purpose
of electing Delegates to represent this Colony in the Gen-
eral Congress to be held at Philadelphia, on the tenth day
of May next ? That the Freeholders then there met unani-
mously answered in the affirmative ; and thereupon ap-
pointed the said Colonel Lewis Morris, Mr. Stephen Ward,
Samuel Drake, Esquire, John Thomas, Junior, Esquire,
Robert Graham, Esquire, and Major Philip Van Cort-
landt, together with Colonel James Holmes and Jonathan
Piatt, Esquire, or the majority of them, to be the Depu-
ties of the said County of Westchester, for the purposes
aforesaid.

The same Credentials being read and heard, and ac-
cepted by this Convention, are now filed with the Secre-
tary.

The Deputies for King's County produced here pro-
ceedings of a meeting of the several Committees chosen
by the Freeholders of the Townships of Flatbush, Brook-
land, Bushwick, New- Utrecht, and Gravesend, held at the
County Hall, in Flatbush, in King's County, on the fif-
teenth day of April instant, for the purpose of choosing
Deputies to meet with the Deputies from the other Coun-
ties, at New- York, on the twentieth day of April instant,
to choose Delegates to attend the Continental Congress, to
be held at Philadelphia on the tenth day of May next.
The said proceedings, certified by Abraham Van Ranst,
Clerk to the said several large and respectable Committees

355

NEW-YORK PROVINCIAL CONVENTION, APRIL, 1175.

356

there met, do certify, that Simon Boerum, Esquire, having
been elected their Chairman, they unanimously resolved
that the said Simon Boerum, Richard Stilwell, Thcodorus
Polhcmus, Denice Dcnicc, and John Vanderbilt, or the
major part of them, be appointed, and they were thereby
appointed Deputies for King's County, to meet the Depu-
ties of the other Counties within this Colony, at New-
York, on the twentieth day of Aj)ril instant, to choose
Delegates to attend the Continental Congress, at Phila-
delphia, on the tenth day of May next.

And the same certified proceedings being now read and
heard and accepted, and approved of by this Convention,
are filed with the Secretary.

The Deputies for Suffolk County produced a Certifi-
cate, signed by Robert Hempsted, Chairman, at a meeting
of the Committees from the different Towns in the County
of Suffolk, held at the County Hall, on the sixth day of
April instant, certifying that it was then and there unani-
mously voted and agreed, that Colonel William Floyd,
Colonel Nathaniel. Woodhull, Colonel Phineas Fanning,
Thomas Tredwell, and John Sloss Hobart, Esquires, all
now present, together with Thomas IVickham, Esquire,
were then and there appointed Deputies, on the part and
behalf of that County, to meet the Deputies of New- York
and the other Counties within this Colony in a Provincial
Convention at the City of New- York, on the 20th day of
April instant, (as recommended in a Letter from the Chair-
man of the Committee in the said City,) there to unite
with the other Deputies in appointing Delegates to attend
the Continental Congress at Philadelphia or elsewhere, in
May next. And thereby also farther certifying that the
said Deputies were thereby empowered to unite with the
other Deputies in Provincial Convention in entering into
such Resolves, and giving such Instructions to the Dele-
gates that shall be there chosen, as in their judgment shall
tend to the preservation of the rights and liberties of Ame-
rica, and to restore harmony between Great Britain and
the Colonies.

And the said certified proceedings and appointments be-
ing read and heard, and accepted by this Convention, are
now filed with the Secretary.

The Convention then proceeded to make an Order, in
the words following, to wit :

It having been reported that Mr. Isaac Low, who ap*
pears to have been elected one of the Deputies for the City
and County of New-York, and has not attended, does not
intend to act in that capacity ; and as the Convention are
restrained in the appointment of Delegates to the persons
of whom it is composed,

Ordered, That the Secretary wait upon Mr. Low, and
request the favour of him to inform the Convention whether
they are to consider him as one of their Members.

The Convention then adjourned to ten o'clock to-mor»
row morning.

Die Veneris, 10 hojra, A. M., April 31, 1775.
The Convention assembled at the Exchange, in New-

York, pursuant to adjournment, Present :

City and County of New-York. — Philip Livingston,
Esq., President, John Alsop, James Duane, and John
Jay, Esquires, and Colonel Leonard Lispenard, Messrs.
Isaac Roosevelt, Alexander McDougall, Abraham Bra-
sher, Francis Lewis, and Abraham Walton.

City and County of Albany.— Col. Philip Schuyler,
Colonel Abraham Ten Broeck, and Abraham Yates,
Jun., Esquire.

Ulster County. — Charles De Witt, George Clinton, and
Levy Pawling, Esquires.

Orange County.— Col. A. Haivkes Hay, Henry Wisner,
Esquire, John Herring, Esquire, Messrs. Peter Clowes,
and Israel Seely.

Westchester County.— Col. Leiois Morris, Mr. Ste-
phen Ward, Samuel Drake, Esquire, John Thomas,
Jun., Esquire, Robert Graham, Esquire, and Major
Philip Van Cortlandt.

Dutchess County. — Col. Morris Graham, Major Robert
R. Livingston, Junior, and Egbert Benson, Esq.

King's County. — Simon Boerum, Esq., Captain Richard
Stilwell, Messrs. Theodorus Polhemus, and John Van-
drrbilt.

Suffolk County. — Colonel William Floyd, Colonel Na-
thaniel Woodhull, Colonel Phineas Fanning, Thomas
Tredwell, Esquire, and John Sloss Hobart, Esquire.

Nf.wtown, Oyster Bay, Flushing, and Jamaica, in
Queen's County. — Colonel Jacob Blackwell, Captain
Zebulon Williams, Messrs. John Talman, and Ji
Robinson.

Mr. John Talman, of Flushing, in Queen's County,
produced to this Convention a Certificate, signed by John
Rodman, Town Clerk, and by Mr. Stephen Van Wyck,
certifying that, on the 4th day of April instant, after due
notice had been given to the Freeholders of Flushing, ;ir
an annual Town Meeting, it was proposed that a Deputv
should be chosen to represent the said Town at a Provin-
cial Convention, to be held at the City of Nctv-York on
the 20th day of April instant. That after some debates
the matter was put to vote, and that Mr. John Talman
was, by a great majority, chosen their Deputy, to repre-
sent the said Town of Flushing in the said Provincial
Convention.

Mr. Joseph Robinson produced to the Convention a
Poll List of one hundred and seventy-six of the Freehold-
ers of the Town of Jamaica, in Queen's County ; eighty-two
whereof, who, though a minority of the Freeholders of the
said Town who polled on that occasion, have requested
him to attend this Convention, and signify their willingness
to acquiesce in the choice of the Deputies who attend this
Convention for the purpose of electing Delegates to repre-
sent this Colony at the next Continental Congress.

Captain Zeotdon Williams produced two Certificates,
signed by forty-three of the Freeholders of the Town of
Oyster Bay, in Queen's County, dated the 12th day of
April instant, who, though a minority of the Freeholders
who polled on that occasion, have thereby appointed him
their Deputv, to attend this Convention and act on their
behalf.

Colonel Jacob Blackwell produced to this Convention a
Poll List of Freeholders of the Township of Neictoum,
whereby it appears that one hundred Freeholders in the
3aid Town (who were all that did poll on that occasion)
have elected him their Deputy to attend this Convention.

The said Certificates and Poll List being read, heard,
and considered,

Resolved, That the Convention allows Colonel Jacob
Blackwell, Captain Zebxdon Williams, and Messrs. John
Talman and Joseph Robinson to be present at its delibera-
tions, and will take into consideration any advice they may
offer.

Colonel Morris Graham, Major Robert R. Livingston.
Junior, and Egbert Benson, Esquire, laid before the Con-
vention a Certificate, signed by the respective Committees
of the Precincts of Rumbout, Northeast Amenia, and
Rynbeck, in the said County of Dutchess, at a meeting held
by them at Charlotte Precinct, in the said County, on the
14th day of April instant, certifying that they, the said
Morris Graham, Robert R. Livingston, Junior, and Eg-
bert Benson, were elected Deputies to represent the said
County in the Provincial Convention at the City of Ntw-
York, on the 20th day of April instant ; or to represent
the respective Precincts who had sent Committees to that
meeting, as this Convention, from a state of facts to be laid
before them, should determine.

The same gentlemen from Dutchess County then laid
before the Convention the said state of facts, which are in
the words following, to wit :

1st. That at a meeting in August last, held for the pur-
pose of nominating Delegates to represent the County of
Dutchess in the last Continental Congress, Committees
attended from seven Precincts.

2d. That shortly after, a Committee was chosen in an-
other Precinct, who approved of the proceedings of this
meeting, and wrote to the Committee of Correspondence,
informing them of the same.

3d. That at this meeting Messrs. Anthony Hoffman,
John Van Ness, and Egbert fienson were constituted a
Standing Committee of Correspondence for the whole
County, with directions to communicate to the other Com-
mittees whatever intelligence should, from time to time, be
received, with a power to call a meeting of the other Com-
mittees when they should think it expedient ; and for that

357

NEW-YORK PROVINCIAL CONVENTION, APRIL, 1775.

358

purpose a place was appointed where the next meeting
should be held.

4th. That immediately upon the receipt of the Letter
from the Committee of the City of Neiv- York, of the 16th
of March last, Circular Letters were despatched to the
several Precincts in the County, mentioning the time when
another meeting would be held at the place appointed, as
above.

5th. That Town Meetings, for the purpose of taking
the sense of tiie Inhabitants with respect to sending Depu-
ties to attend this Convention, have been held in only six
Precincts.

6th. That taking the six Precincts throughout, of the
persons who actually appeared and gave their voices, either
for or against the measure, a majority were in favour of it.

And the said Certificate and state of facts having been
read and heard, and duly considered, they were accepted
of by this Convention, and filed with the Secretary.

The Secretary being then called on for that purpose,
reported to the Convention that, in pursuance of their or-
der, he yesterday evening waited on Mr. Low, who, in
substance, informed him that, as he could not attend the
Committee when the measure of having eleven Deputies
for the City and County of New- Yor k was in agitation, he
got a friend to signify to the Committee his disapprobation
of the measure, and that if he was nominated he should
think himself obliged to refuse to serve ; that he had after-
wards published a declaration that he would not serve as a
Deputy, that the City might have an opportunity to sup-
ply his place, if it was thought necessary to have eleven
Deputies, and that, therefore, the Convention are not to
consider him as a Member.

Resolved unanimously, That this Convention, sensible
of the services of the Delegates from this Colony who at-
tended the Continental Congress, in order to express their
approbation of their conduct, and as a mark of the confi-
dence reposed in them, have unanimously re-elected all of
them Delegates to attend the next Continental Congress
at Philadelphia, except Mr. Isaac Low, who had previous-
ly declared that the Convention was not to consider him as
a Member of this Convention, and is therefore ineligible.

John Herring, Esquire, declined attending at the next
Continental Congress as a Delegate, and assigned his rea-
sons to the Convention, which are approved of, and he is
therefore excused.

Resolved unanimously, That five gentlemen be added,
as Delegates, to those who attended the last Continental
Congress, and re-elected by this Convention, and that they
be chosen by ballot.

And the following gentlemen were then elected by bal-
lot, neminc contradicente, viz : Colonel Philip Schuyler,
George Clinton, Esquire, Colonel Leicis Morris, Robert
R. Livingston, Junior, Esquire, and Francis Lewis, Es-
quire.

Resolved, therefore, unanimously, That Philip Liv-
ingston, James Vuane, John Alsop, John Jay, Simon
Boerum, William Floyd, Henry Wisner, Philip Schuyler,
George Clinton, Lewis Morris, Francis Lewis, and Ro-
bert R. Livingston, Junior, Esquires, be Delegates to
represent this Colony at the next Continental Congress to
be held at the City of Philadelphia on the 10th day of
May next, with full power to them, or any five of them, to
meet the Delegates from the other Colonies, and to concert
and determine upon such measures as shall be judged most
effectual for the preservation and re-establishment of Ame-
rican rights and privileges, and for the restoration of
harmony between Great Britain and the Colonies.

The Convention then adjourned till to-morrow morning,
eleven o'clock.

Die Sabbati, 11 hora, A. M., April 22, 1775.
The Convention assembled at the Fachange, in New-
York, pursuant to adjournment, Present :
City and County of New-York. — Philip Livingston,
Esquire, President, John Alsop, Esquire, Leonard Lis-
penard, Esquire, Francis Lewis, Esquire, Messrs. Abra-
ham Walton, Isaac Roosevelt, Alexander McDougall,
Abraham Brasher, and James Duane, Esquire.

City and County of Albany. — Colonel Philip Schuy-
ler, Colonel Abraham Ten Broeck, Abraham Yates,
Jun., Esquire, and Halter Livingston, Esquire.

Ulster County. — Charles De Witt, George Clinton.
and Levy Pawling, Esquires.

Orange County. — Colonel A. Harvkes Hay, Henry
Wisner, Esquire, John Herring, Esquire, Messrs. Peter
Clowes, and Israel Seely.

Dutchess County. — Robert R. Livingston, Jun., Es-
quire, Colonel Morris Graham, and Egbert Benson,
Esquire.

Westchester County. — Colonel Lewis Morris, John
Thomas, Jun., Esquire, Robert Graham, Esquire, Ma-
jor Philip Van Cortlandt, Samuel Drake, Esquire,
and Mr. Stephen Ward.

King's County. — Simon Boerum, Esquire, and John
Vanderbilt.

Suffolk County. — Colonel William Floyd. Colonel
Nathaniel Woodhull, Colonel Phineas Famring, John
Sloss Hobart, Esquire, and Thomas Tredwell, Esquire.

Newtown, Oyster Bay, Flushing, and Jamaica, in
Queen's County. — Colonel Joseph Blackwell, Zebu-
Ion Williams, Esquire, Messrs. John Talman, and Jo-
seph Robinson.

A Draft of Credentials for the Delegates of this Colony,
elected and appointed to attend at the next Continental
Congress at Philadelphia, being read and approved, was
agreed to, and is in the words following, to wit:

At a Provincial Convention, formed of Deputies from
the City and County of New- York, the City and County
of Albany, and the Counties of Dutchess, Ulster, Orange,
Westchester, King's, and Suffolk, held at the City of
New- York the twenty-second day of April, one thousand
seven hundred and seventy-five, for the purpose of appoint-
ing Delegates to represent the Colony of New-York in
the next Continental Congress, to be held at the City of
Philadelphia on the tenth day of May next, Philip Liv-
ingston, Esquire, James Duane, John Alsop, John Jay,
Simon Boerum, William Floyd, Henry Wisner, Philip
Schuyler, George Clinton, Lewis Morris, Francis Lewis,
and Robert R. Livingston, Jun., Esquires, were unani-
mously elected Delegates to represent this Colony at such
Congress, with full power to them, or any five of them, to
meet the Delegates from the other Colonies, and to concert
and determine upon such measures as shall be judged most
effectual for the preservation and re- establishment of Ame-
rican rights and privileges, and for the restoration of har-
mony between Great Britain and the Colonies.

Ordered, That the same be subscribed by the Members
of this Convention, and that fair copies be made of the Re-
solutions of this Convention appointing the Delegates, as
also a list of the Deputies who attended thereat, and that
the same be signed by the President, and published in the
New- York Newspapers.

Ordered, That the thanks of this Convention be given
to the Secretary for his services on this occasion ; which
was accordingly done.

Philip Livingston, Lewis Morris,

John Alsop, John Thomas, Jun.,

James Duane, Robert Graham,

Francis Lewis, P. Van Cortlandt,

Abraham Walton, Samuel Drake,

Isaac Roosevelt, Stephen Ward,

Alex. McDougall, Morris Graham,

Abraham Brasher, R. R. Livingston, Jr.,

Leonard Lispenard, Egbert Benson,

Philip Schuyler, Simon Boerum,

Abm. Ten Broeck, John Vanderbilt,

Abm. Yates, Jun., William Floyd,

Walter Livingston, Nathaniel Woodhull,

Charles De Witt, Phineas Fanning,

George Clinton, John Sloss Hobart,

Levy Pawling, Thomas Tredwell.

A. Hawkes Hay, Zebulon Williams,

Henry Wisner, Jacob Blackwell,

Peter Clowes, John Talman,

Israel Seely, Joseph Robinson-
John Herring,

359

CORRESPONDENCE, PROCEEDINGS, &c, APRIL, 1775.

3U0

ATTACK ON THE INHABITANTS OF MASSACHUSETTS BY
THE BRITISH TROOPS.

Portsmouth New-Hampshire, April 20, 1775.

Early this morning we were alarmed with an Express
from Newburyport, with the following Letter to the Chair-
man of the Committee of Correspondence in this Town:

Newburyport, April 19, 1775.

Sir: This Town has been in a continual alarm since
mid-day, with reports of the Troops having marched out
of Boston to make some attack in the country. The
reports in general concur, in part, in having been at Iax-
ington. And it is very generally said they have been at
Concord. We sent oft" an express this afternoon, who
went as far as Simons's at Danvers, before he could get
information that he thought might be depended upon. He
there met two or three gentlemen who affirmed, the regular
Troops and our men had been engaged chief of the morn-
ing, and that it is supposed we had twenty-five thousand
men engaged against four thousand Regulars ; that the
Regulars had begun a retreat. Our men here are setting
off immediately. And as the sword is now drawn, and
first drawn on the side of the Troops, we scruple not you
will give the readiest and fullest assistance in your power.
And send this information further on.

In behalf of the Committee for this Town.

Your humble servant, James Hudson, Chairman.

LETTER FROM BOSTON TO A GENTLEMAN IN NEW-YORK,
DATED APRIL, 19, 1775.

I have taken up my pen to inform you, that last night
about eleven o'clock, one thousand of the best Troops, in
a very secret manner, embarked on board a number of
Boats at the bottom of the Common, and went up Cam-
bridge River, and landed.

In the mean time they stopped every person from going
over the Neck, or any Ferry ; but we soon found a way
to get some men to alarm the country. From thence
they marched to Lexington, where they saw a number of
men exercising. They ordered them to disperse, and im-
mediately fired on them, killed eight men on the spot,
and marched to Concord. This alarmed the country so,
that it seemed as if men came down from the clouds.
This news coming to Town, the General sent out another
thousand men, with a large train of artillery. In the mean
time, those Troops at Concord had set fire to the Court-
House there. We then had our men collected, so that an
engagement immediately ensued, and the King's Troops
retreated very fast, until they were reinforced with the last
one thousand that the General sent ; but they did not stand
long before the whole body gave way, and retreated very
fast. Our men kept up at their heels, loading and firing
till they got to Charlestown, when our men thought it
not prudent to proceed any farther, fearing the Ships-of-
War would be ordered to fire on Boston and Charlestown.
They have gained a complete victory ; and, by the best
information I can get, most of the officers and soldiers are
cut off. There were two wagons, one loaded with powder
and ball, and the other with provisions, guarded by seven-
teen men and an officer going to the Army, when six of
our men waylaid them, killed two, wounded two, and took
the officer prisoner ; the others took to the woods, and we
brought off the wagons. The engagement began about
twelve o'clock, and continued until seven; in the mean
lime they retreated twenty miles.

I have endeavoured to give you a few of the particulars, as
near as I am able, considering the situation we are in, not
knowing but the Troops may have liberty to turn their
revenge on us. We have now at least ten thousand men
round this Town. It has been a most distressing day with
us ; but I pray God we may never have reason to be called
to such another.

some secret expedition was on foot, and, being upon the
look-out, they observed those bodies on the move between
ten and eleven o'clock on T\iesday night, observing a per-
fect silence in their march, towards the point opposite to
Phippt't farm, where boats were in waiting, that conveyed
them over. The men appointed to alarm the country on
such occasions got over by stealth as early as the Troops,
and took their different routes.

The first advice we had was about eight o'clock in the
morning, when it was reported that the Troops had fired
upon and killed five men in Lexington ; previous to which
an officer came express to his Excellency General Gag< .
when, between eight and nine o'clock, a Brigade marched
out under the command of Earl Percy, consisting of the
Marines, the JFe/sA Fusileers, the Fourth, and Forty-seven th.
and Thirty-eighth Regiments, and two field pieces. About
twelve o'clock it was given out by the General's Aid-de-
Camp that no person was killed, and that a single gun had
not been fired, which report was variously believed; but,
between one and two o'clock, certain accounts came that
eight were killed outright, and fourteen wounded of the
inhabitants of Lexington. Those people, it seems, to the
number of about forty, were drawn out early in the morn-
ing near the Meeting-House to exercise ; upon which the
party of Light-Infantry and Grenadiers, to the number of
about eight hundred, came up to them, and ordered them to
disperse. The commander replied that they were innocently
amusing themselves with exercise, that they had not any
ammunition with them, and therefore should not molest or
disturb them. This answer not satisfying, the Troops fired
upon them, and killed three or four; the others took to
their heels, and the Troops continued to fire. A few took
refuge in the Meeting-House, when the soldiers shoved up
the windows, pointed their guns in, and killed three there.
This is the best account 1 can learn of the beginning of the
fatal day, and you must naturally suppose that such a piece
of cruelty would rouse the Country.

The Troops continued their march to Concord, entered
the Town, and refreshed themselves in the Meeting-House
and Town-House. In the latter place they found some
ammunition and stores belonging to the country, which
finding they could not bring away by reason of the country
people having occupied all the posts round them, they set
fire to the house, but the people extinguished it. They
set it on fire a second time, which brought on a general
engagement at about eleven o'clock. The Troops took
two pieces of cannon from the countrymen ; but their num-
bers increasing, they soon regained them, and the Troops
were obliged to retreat towards Town.

At noon they were joined by the other Brigades, under
Earl Percy, when another very warm engagement came
on at Lexington. The Troops not being able to stand it,
where obliged to continue their retreat, which they did
with the bravery becoming British soldiers ; but the coun-
try was in a manner desperate, not regarding their cannon
in the least, and followed on till seven in the evening, by
which time they got into Charlestown, when they left off
the pursuit, lest they might injure the inhabitants. I stood
upon the hills in Town and saw the engagement very plain,
which was very bloody for seven hours; and it is conjec-
tured that one half of the soldiers at least are killed. The
last Brigade was sent over the Ferry in the evening to
secure their retreat; and they are this morning intrenching
themselves upon Bunker's Hill, till they can get a safe
retreat to this Town.

It is impossible to learn any particulars, as the commu-
nication between town and country is at present broke off;
they were till ten last night bringing over their wounded,
several of whom are since dead, two officers in particular.
When I reflect, and consider that the fight between those
whose parents but a few years ago were brothers, I shud-
der at the thought, and there is no knowing where our
calamities will end.

EXTRACT OF A LETTER TO A GENTLEMAN NEAR PHILA-
DELPHIA, DATED BOSTON, APRIL 20, 1775.

Yesterday produced a scene the most shocking that
New-England ever beheld. Last Saturday P. M., orders
were sent to the several Regiments quartered here, not to
let their Grenadiers or Light-Infantry do any duty till far-
ther orders ; upon which the inhabitants conjectured that

EXTRACT OF A LETTER FROM BOSTON TO A GENTLEMAN
IN NEW-YORK, DATED APRIL 20, 1775.

I have yet an opportunity of writing to you from my
own house, but how long that privilege is to continue God
only knows. Yesterday morning, or rather late in the
night of the 18th, a Brigade, or four Regiments., were car-

361

CORRESPONDENCE, PROCEEDINGS, &c, APRIL, 1775.

362

ried from the west part of the Town, in boats of the Men-
of-War, to Cambiidge, from whence they marched on to-
wards Concord, which is about twenty miles from beuce.
On their way, in passing through Lexington, the Troops
came unexpectedly on a Company of our country people,
(who are called Minute- Men) that were early in the morn-
ing exercising with arms, without ammunition. The Officer
of the Troops is said to have ordered them to lay down
their arms. The Captain replied, he was on his own
ground; that his Company were without ammunition, and
bad no intent but that of improving in the military art.
After some altercation, report says the Captain and his men
turned to go off, and that the Light-Infantry fired on them,
killed six, and wounded mortally two others. The Troops
continuing their route to Concord, the country, by the time
of their getting there, was alarmed ; and our people, taking
to a hill, began firing upon the Troops with about two
hundred men, which number, receiving continual additions,
the Troops were all the remainder of the day on their re-
treat to Charlestown, and many of the officers who have
returned say they never were in a hotter engagement.
Many are killed on both sides, and were left on the roads,
neither side having time to collect their dead. Our people
came to no regular battle, but annoyed their whole passage
back. We could see the flashes, and hear the reports of
the guns for hours ; the warmest fire being about two miles
from the Town, where only water parted us.

The marching of the Troops to the water side was so
sudden and silent, that few of the inhabitants knew of it
till next morning.

EXTRACT OF A LETTER FKOM BOSTON TO A MERCHANT IN
NEW-YORK, DATED THURSDAY, APRIL 20, 1775.

What I was apprehensive of in my last, is now con-
firmed. Yesterday morning the Grenadiers and Light-In-
fantry of all the Regiments in Town marched out very
unexpectedly, and proceeded to Concord, twenty-one miles
from hence ; at which place the Provincial Congress sat,
and where large Magazines, belonging to the Country, were
collected, which were totally destroyed. This party con-
sisted of about eight hundred men, under the command of
Lieutenant Colonel Smith, of the Tenth Regiment. About
six hours after those left Boston, a Brigade was ordered
out, consisting of one thousand men, commanded by Lord
Percy. These marched about sixteen miles, to a place
called Lexington, where they met the first party returning,
and who, in their first march up, had killed eight or ten
men that opposed their march. Upon the Army's return,
near Lexington, they were fired on from the woods, which
was returned. Thus the engagement became general, and
continued for seven hours, during which several lives were
lost, and a great many wounded. It is surprising how soon
the country people mustered, and in vast numbers ; so
much, that the Troops were obliged to retreat near twelve
miles, and all this way a constant firing was kept up on
both sides. The country people fired all from cover, and
by this means had rnuch the advantage of the Troops. The
engagement lasted until night put an end to it. I saw a
great part of it from Beacon Hill. They kept a constant
firing until they got into Charlestoivn. The loss on the
part of the Troops, from the best information, is about two
hundred killed ; among which there are no Officers, though
many very much wounded. Lieutenant-Colonel Barnard,
of the Royal Welch, Lieutenant-Colonel Smith, of the
Tenth, are slightly wounded. Lieutenant Gould, of the
Fourth Regiment, is also wounded. Major Moncrieffe,
Captain Parso7is, and Mr. Haines, are safe returned. The
loss on the side of the Country must be considerable ; at
present, there is no coming to any certainty. From the
preparations that are making, I think it will be soon re-
newed.

EXTRACT OF A LETTER FROM A GENTLEMAN IN NEWPORT
(RHODE-ISLAND) TO THE NEW-YORK COMMITTEE, DATED
APRIL 21, 1775.

Yesterday the Town was alarmed by intelligence con-
tained in a letter, which came express from Providence, to
the Governour, subscribed by the Lieutenant-Governour,
A'. Hopkins, J. Jenks, S. Nightingale, J. Brotvn, and about

twenty others, inhabitants of the Town of Providence,
which says: " Our brethren of the Massachusetts-Bay are
attacked by a body of the Regular Troops, and many
friends are slain." They then request the Governour to
call the Assembly, to make the necessary preparations for
the common defence ; to which a postscript is added, signed
Thomas Green, that Colonel Warren and Doctoi Pyn-
cham, two Deputies from Massachusetts Congress, were at
Providence, waiting to consult the Assembly on what was
proper to be done. There is also another letter from S.
Hopkins to Major-General Potter, a copy of which was
forwarded to the Governour, and calls upon the Major-
General to repair to Providence, to consult with Lieutenant-
General Sessions ; this says : " The King's Troops are ac-
tually engaged butchering and destroying our brethren in
the most inhuman manner. The inhabitants oppose them
with great zeal and courage."

Both the above letters are dated, Providence, April 19,
1775, at night.

EXTRACT OF A LETTER FROM WEATHERSFIELD, IN CON-
NECTICUT, TO A GENTLEMAN IN NEW-YORK, DATED
APRIL 23, 1775.

The late frequent marchings and counter-marchings into
the country, were calculated to conceal the most cruel and
inhuman design ; and imagining they had laid suspicion
asleep, they pitched upon Tuesday night for the execution.
A hint being got, two expresses were sent to alarm the
Congress. One of them had the good fortune to arrive ;
the other {Mr. Revere) is missing, supposed to be waylaid
and slain. In the night of Tuesday, the Company of Gren-
adiers and Light-Infantry, from every Regiment, were
transported to Charlestoivn in long-boats, and at daybreak
began their march for Lexington, where a number of the
inhabitants were assembled peaceably, without arms, to
consult their safety. The Commander called them re-
bels, and bade them disperse. On their refusal, he fired ;
killed and wounded nine. They then proceeded towards
Concord, marking their way with cruelties and barbarity,
never equalled by the Savages of America. In one house
a woman and seven children were slaughtered, (perhaps on
their return.) At Concord, they seized two pieces of can-
non, and destroyed two others, with all the flour, &c, in
store, but the people secured their magazine of powder, &,c.

By this time, about four hundred (no accounts make them
more than five hundred) of our men assembled, and placed
themselves so advantageously, without being perceived, that
when the enemy were on the return, they received the full
fire of our men. A heavy engagement ensued ; the enemy-
retreating, and our men pressing on them with constant re-
inforcements. At Lexington, they retook their two pieces
of cannon, seized the enemy's wagons and baggage, and
made about twenty prisoners ; continuing to press the Regu-
lars close to Charlestoivn, where they were on the point
of giving up, (one account says this Brigade was almost all
cut off,) but a reinforcement, under the command of Lord
Percy, having been detached that morning from Boston,
they joined the first detachment in the retreat, and retired
with it to Bunker's Hill, where they intrenched, and night
parted them. Our number increased, and next morning
would have surrounded the hill, had it not been for the
situation near the water, where, on one side, they were ex-
posed to the fire from a Man-of-War.

We lost thirty men in the action. The lowest account
of the enemy's loss is one hundred and fifty. Lord Percy.
General Haldimand, and many other officers, are said to
be among the slain. A gentleman of veracity assured me
that he numbered, within half a mile from the place where
the fight began, one hundred and fifty. The post confirms
the same account.

We are all in motion here, and equipt from the Town,
yesterday, one hundred young men, who cheerfully offered
their service ; twenty days provision, and sixty-four rounds,
per man. They are all well armed, and in high spirits.
My brother is gone with them, and others of the first pro-
perty. Our neighbouring Towns are all arming and mov-
ing. Men of the first character and property shoulder their
arms and march off for the field of action. We shall, by
night, have several thousands from this Colony on their
march.

363

CORRESPONDENCE.. PROCEEDINGS, fee, APRIL, 1775

364

The eyes of America are on New-York ; the Ministry
have certainly been promised by some of your leading men,
that your Province would desert us; hut you will be able
to form a better judgment when you see how this intelli-
gence is relished. Take care of yourselves ; we have more
than men enough to block up the enemy at Boston, and if
w i are like to fall by treachery, by Heaven we will not
fall unrevenged on the traitors ; but if balls or swords will
reach them, they shall fall with us. It is no time now to
dally, or be merely neutral ; he that is not for us is against
us, and ought to feel the first of our resentment. You must
now declare, most explicitly, one way or the other, that we
may know whether we are to go to Boston or New- York.
If you desert, our men will as cheerfully attack New-York
as Boston; for we can but perish, and that we are deter-
mined upon, or be free. I have nothing to add, but am,
your friend and countryman, &c.

P. S. Colonel Murray's son, one of the Tories, under-
took to guide the Regulars in their march to Concord, and
on their retreat was taken prisoner ; but attempting to es-
cape from our people, they shot him — a death too honour-
able for such a villain ! They have made another of them
prisoner, but I do not recollect his name ; none of ours were
taken.

Will Colonel Grant believe now that New-England men
dare look Regulars in the face ? Eighteen hundred of their
best men retreating with loss, before one-third of their num-
ber, seems almost incredible, and I think must be called
an omen for good. In every struggle Heaven has, as yet,
given us strength equal to the day ; its hand is not short-
ened, nor its arm weakened. We are now called upon to
show the world " that whom we call fathers did beget us,"
and that we desire to enjoy the blessings they purchased
for us with their lives and fortunes. We fix on our Stand-
ards and Drums, the Colony Arms, with the motto, " qui
transtulit sustin^," round it in letters of gold, which we
construe thus: " God, who transplanted us hither, will sup-
port us."

New.York, Sunday, April 23, 1775.
This morning we had reports in this City from Rhode-
Island and Neiv-London, that an action had happened be-
tween the King's Troops and the inhabitants of Boston,
which was not credited ; but about twelve o'clock an ex-
press arrived with the following account, viz :

Watortown, Wednesday morning, }

Near ten o'clock, April 19, 1775. \

To all Friends of American Liberty let it be known:

That this morning before break of day, a Brigade, con-
sisting of about one thousand or twelve hundred men,
landed at Phipps's farm at Cambridge, and marched to
Lexington, where they found a Company of our Colony
Militia in arms, upon whom they fired without any provo-
cation, and killed six men and wounded four others. By
an express from Boston we find another Brigade are upon
their march from Boston, supposed to be about one thou-
sand. The bearer, Israel Bessel, is charged to alarm the
Country quite to Connecticut, and all persons are desired
to furnish him with fresh horses as they may be needed. I
have spoken with several who have seen the dead and
wounded. Pray let the Delegates from this Colony to
Connecticut see this ; they know Colonel Foster, of Brook-
field, one of our Delegates. T. Palmer,

One of the Committee for Safety.

A true copy taken from the original, per order of the
Committee of Correspondence for Worcester, April 19,
1775. • Attest,

Nathan Baldwin, Town-Clerk.

Fairfield, Connecticut, Saturday, 22d April, 8 o'clock.

Since the above was written we have received the fol-
lowing by the second express :

Thursday, 20th April, 3 o'clock, A. M.

I am this moment informed by express from Woodstock,
taken from his own mouth, that arrived there at 2 o'clock
this afternoon, that the contest between the first Brigade
that marched to Concord, was still continuing this morning at
the Town of Lexington, to which place said Brigade had°re-

treated ; that another Brigade, said to be the second mention-
ed in the letter of this morning, had landed with a quantity
of artillery at the place where the first did. The Provincials
were determined to prevent the two Brigades from joining
their strength, if possible, and remain in great need of suc-
cour. The Regulars, when in Concord, burnt the Court-
House, took two pieces of cannon, which they rendered
useless, and began to take up Concord Bridge, on which
Captain . . . , who, with many on both sides, were
soon killed, then made an attack on the King's Troops, on
which they retreated to Lexington. I am your humble
servant, Ebenezer Williams.

To Colonel Obadiah Johnson, Canterbury.

P. S. Mr. McFarland, of Cornfield, Merchant, has
just returned from Boston, by way of Providence, who
conversed with an express from Lexington, who further
informs, that about four thousand of our Troops had sur-
rounded the first Brigade above-mentioned, who were on a
hill in Lexington; that the action continued, and there
were about fifty of our men killed, and one hundred and
fifty of the Regulars, as near as they could determine when
the express came away. It will be expedient for every
man to go who is fit and willing.

The above is a true copy as received by express from
New-Haven, and attested to by the Committee of Corres-
pondence from Town to Town.

Test, Jonathan Sturges, Andrew Rowland,
G. Silleck Silliman, Thaddeus Burr.
Job Bartram, Committee.

The above was received on Sunday, April 23, about
twelve o'clock, by the Committee of New- York, and for-
warded to Philadelphia by Isaac Low, Chairman of the
Committee, at 4 o'clock, P. M.

LETTER FROM NEW-YORK TO A GENTLEMAN IN PHILA-
DELPHIA, DATED APRIL 24, 1775.

This City was alarmed yesterday by a report from the
Eastward, that the King's Troops had attacked the Mas-
sachusetts-Bay people ; the report was confirmed in a few
hours after by the arrival of St. Croix, from Rhode-
Island, and an express from near Boston. The Commit-
tee was soon called, and an express sent ofF to your City ;
as you will have particulars by him before this reaches you,
I need say no more.

There were two Sloops here loaded with Flour for the
Soldiers at Boston, by Mr. Watts. The people went,
Sunday as it was, and unloaded them in a hurry. To-
wards evening they went and secured about half the City
Arms ; a guard of about one hundred men, I am told, was
then placed at the City- Hall, to secure the rest of the
Arms, and another hundred at the Powder-House ; this
was not done by the Magistrates, but by the people.

EXTRACT OF A LF.TTER FROM NEW-YORK TO A GENTLE-
MAN IN PHILADELPHIA, DATED APRIL 24, 1775.

I do not doubt but the interesting news from Boston
must give every good and virtuous man much concern,
that, from present appearances, a reconciliation between
us and Great Britain is at a farther distance than we, of
late, had rational grounds to hope. Surely this proceeding
on the part of General Gage is not the olive branch held
up by Government. Yesterday this whole City was in a
state of alarm; every face appeared animated with resent-
ment. Soon after the news arrived by express, many
citizens went to two Transports loaded with Bread, Flour,
&c, for the Troops, and they were speedily unloaded.
The Committee met, and after despatching the express,
considered of other matters, and will no doubt be attentive
to every thing within their power to preserve the peace of
the Town, and property, and all other matters tending to-
wards maintaining the character of a sister Colony that
feels for another in distress. Many persons of influence,
who have been thought inimical to the cause, now come
out boldly and declare their sentiments worthy of them-
selves. Indeed the difference of sentiment has not been
much ; party views kept men of weight asunder; it is hoped
that will subside more and more.

365

CORRESPONDENCE, PROCEEDINGS, &c, APRIL, 1775.

366

New-York, April 25, 1775.

This day, about noon, arrived a second express from
New-England, with the following important advices :

Wallingford, Monday, April 24, 1775.

Dear Sir: Colonel Wadsworth was over in this place
most of yesterday, and has ordered twenty men out of each
Company in his Regiment, some of which had already set
off, and others go this morning. He brings accounts, which
came to him authenticated, from Thursday in the after-
noon. The King's Troops being reinforced a second time,
and joined, as I suppose, from what I can learn, by the
party who were intercepted by Colonel Gardner, were
then encamped on Winter Hill, and were surrounded by
iwenty thousand of our men, who were intrenching. Col.
Gardner's ambush proved fatal to Lord Percy and an-
other General Officer, who were killed on the spot the first
fire. To counterbalance this good news, the story is, that
our first man in command (who he is 1 know not) is also
killed. It seems they have lost many men on both sides ;
Colonel Wadsworth had the account in a letter from Hart-
ford. The Country beyond here are all gone, and we
expect it will be impossible to procure horses for our wag-
ons, as they have, and will, in every place employ them-
selves all their horses. In this place they send a horse for
every sixth man, and are pressing them for that purpose.
I know of no way, but you must immediately send a couple
of stout, able horses, who may overtake us at Hartford
possibly, where we must return Mrs. Noyes's, and Meloy's,
if he holds out so far. Remember, the horses must be had
at any rate.

1 am, in the greatest haste, your entire friend and hum-
ble servant, James Lockwood.

N. B. Colonel Gardner took nine prisoners, and twelve
clubbed their firelocks, and came over to our party. Col.
Gardner's party consisted of seven hundred men, and the
Regulars one thousand eight hundred, instead of one thou-
sand two hundred, as we heard before. They have sent a
vessel up Mystick River as far as Temple's farm, which is
about half a mile from Winter Hill. These accounts being
true, all the King's forces, except four or five hundred,
must be encamped on Winter Hill.

At the instance of the gentlemen of Fairfield, just de-
parted from hence, this is copied verbatim from the origi-
nal, to be forwarded to that Town. Isaac Beers.

New-Haven, April 24, 1775, half past nine o'clock,
forenoon. Pierpont Edwards.

Fairfield, April 24, three o'clock, afternoon. A true
copy, as received per express. Thaddeus Burr,

Andrew Rowland,
Elijah Abel.

Norwalk, April 24, seven o'clock, afternoon. A true
copy, as received per express.

John Cannon, ~)

Thaddeus Betts, > Committee.
Samuel German, )

Stamford, April 24th, ten o'clock, evening. A true
copy- John Hait, Jun.,

Samuel Hutton,
David Webb,
Daniel Gray,
Jonathan Warring, Jun.
Greenwich, April 25, three o'clock, morning. The
above is forwarded to the Committee of Correspondence at
yew-York. Amos Mead.

A true copy, received in Netv-York, two o'clock, P.
M., Tuesday, April 25, 1775.

Isaac Low, Chairman New- York Committee.
A true copy, received at Elizabethtown, seven o'clock
in the evening, Tuesday, April 25, 1775.

Jona. Hampton,
Chairman of the Committee.
Geo. Ross,
John Blanchard.
A true copy, received at Woodbridge, ten of the clock
in the evening, Tuesday, April 25, 1775.
Nathaniel Heard,
Samuel Parker,
Jonathan Clawson

Three of the
Committee.

The above received at New-Brunswick, the 25th April.
1775, twelve o'clock at ni^ht.

Wm. Oake, }

Jas. Neilson, > Committer

Az. Dunham, )

A true copy, received at Princetoivn, April 26, 177.".

half past three o'clock in the morning.

Thomas Wiggin, ) Members rf

Jona. Baldwin, 5 Committee.

The above received at Trenton on Wednesday morning,

about half after six o'clock, and forwarded at seven o'clock.

Samuel Tucker, ) mi r.i
• c ' ( three of the

Isaac smith, > „ k.

. it V Committee.

Abraham Hunt, )

Philadelphia, twelve o'clock, Wednesday, received, and

forwarded at the same time, by

Lamb. Cadwalader, ^ Committee

Wm. Bradford, I for the City

Tho. Pryor, \ of Philadel-

Isaac Malcher, J phia.

Chester, four o'clock, Wednesday, P. M., received, and

forwarded by Francis Johnston.

Isaac Eyre,

Samuel Fairlamb.

New-Castle, nine o'clock, Wednesday evening, received,
and forwarded. Z. V. Leuvenigh,

Stephen Spencek.

Wednesday night, Christcen Bridge, twelve o'clock,
forwarded to Col. Thomas Couch, Esquire, who received
it this moment, and he to forward it to Tobias Rudulph,
Esquire, head of Elk, in Maryland. Night and day to be
forwarded. S. Patterson.

27th April, 1775, half past four o'clock, A. M., re-
ceived, and forwarded to Patrick Hamilton, Esquire, in
Charlcstown, by Tobias Rudulph.

Jos. Gilpin.
Baltimore, April 27, 1775, received, ten o'clock, P. M.

John Boyd, Clerk of the Committee.
A true copy, received in Annapolis, Friday, April 2&,
1775, half after nine o'clock, A. M., and forwarded at ten,
per express.

Mat. Tilghman, ^

Ch. Carroll, of Carrollton,

Charles Carroll,

J. Hall,

Thos. Johnson, Jun.,

Samuel Chase,

Friday, Alexandria, Eight o'clock, P. M.

We received the enclosed from Annapolis at six o'clock ;
please forward it to Fredericksburgh. I am, for self and
the Committee of Correspondence in this place, gentle-
men, your humble servant, Wm. Ramsay.

To the Committee of Correspondence in Dumfries.

Dumfries, April 30, Sunday.

Gentlemen : The enclosed came to hand this morning,
about ten o'clock. In one hour I hired the bearer to con-
vey it to your place to the different Committees. For self
and the Committee of Correspondence in this place, I am.
gentlemen, your most obedient humble servant,

William Carr.

To the Committee of Correspondence at Fredericks-
burgh. By express.

Fredericksbuxgh, Sunday evening, half past Four.

Gentlemen : The enclosed arrived here about an hour
ago, and is forwarded to your Committee by your very
humble servants, Jas. Mercer,

Geo. Thornton,

Mann Page, Jun.,

Hugh Mercer.

King William, May 1, 1776.

Gentlemen: The enclosed arrived here to-day, and is
forwarded to your Committee by your most obedient ser-
vant, Carter Braxton.

Surry County, May 2, 1775.

Gentlemen : The enclosed arrived here this evening,
and is forwarded by your most obedient humble servant.

Allen Cocke.

Committee of
■ Correspondence
for Maryland.

> Committee.

367

CORRESPONDENCE, PROCEEDINGS, &c, APRIL, 1775.

368

Williamshurgh, May 2, 1775.

Gentlemen: The enclosed is this moment come to
hand, and I forward it to you by express, with the request
of the Committee of Williamsburgh that you will be
pleased to forward the papers to the Southward, and dis-
perse the material passages through all your parts.

I am, very respectfully, gentlemen, your most obedient
servant, Ro. C. Nicholas, Chairman.

Xmillii'i -Id, May 3, 1775, Fivo o'clock in the morning.

The enclosed arrived here this morning, and is forward-
ed to your Committee of Correspondence by your humble
servants, Arthur Smith,

Nathaniel Burune.

To the Committee of the County of Nansemond, or any
of them. An express from Boston.

Nansemond, May 3, 1775.

Gentlemen: The enclosed is this moment come to
hand, and we forward it to you by express, with the re-
quest of the Committee of Nansemond, and you will be
pleased to forward them to the Southward.

We are, gentlemen, your most obedient servants,

Willis Ridduh,
Willis Ceowper.
To the Committee of Choivan, North- Carolina.

May 3, 1775.
Gentlemen : The enclosed papers we have just received,
and forward them by express to you, to be sent to the South-
ward. We are, gentlemen, your obedient servants,

The Committee of the County of Chowan.
To the Committee of Correspondence, for the Town of
Edenton. By express.

Edenton, May 4, Nine o'clock, 1775.

Gentlemen : The enclosed is this moment come to
hand, and we forward to you by express, with the request
that you will be pleased to forward the papers to the Com-
mittee of Craven County immediately, and disperse the
material passages through all your parts. We are, gentle-
men, your obedient humble servants,

Jos. Blount, Chairman.
Tho. Jones, Jno. Hamilton,

Chas. Bondfield, Robt. Hardy,
Jno. Green, Robt. Smith,

William Bennett, S. Dickinson.
To the Committee of Beaufort County.

Beaufort County, May 6, 1775.

Gentlemen : The enclosed is this moment come to
hand, and we forward to you by express, with the request
that you will forward the different papers to the Southward
immediately. We are, gentlemen, your obedient humble
servants, Roger Osmond,

William Brown.

To the Committee of Craven County.

Bath, May 6, 1775.
Dear Sir : In haste have sent to request you will peruse
the enclosed papers ; and that you will do, by opening the
packet herewith sent the moment it comes to your house.
Get three or four of your Committee to write a line, and
send the whole, enclosed, to the next Southward Commit-
tee, with the utmost despatch.

We are, dear sir, with regard, your most humble servants,

William Brown,
Roger Osmond.
To Abner Nash, Esquire, or either of the Committee
for the County of Craven. Per express.

Newborn, May 6, 1775.

Gentlemen : The enclosed arrived here about an hour

past, and is forwarded immediately to you ; and desire you

will keep a copy of James Lockwood's letter, and send

them on as soon as possible to the Wilmington Committee.

We are, gentlemen, your obedient servants,

Samuel Smith, A. Nash,

B. Cogdell, Joseph Leech,

John Green, John Fonvielle,

William Tisdale, William Stanly,
Thomas McLin, James Coor.

N. B. We have enclosed our last paper, which gives an
account of the first beginning of the battle, which please

to send to Wilmington, &ic, and send all the bundle of
papers forward as soon as possible you can.
To the Committee of Onslow County.

Onslow, Sunday morning, 10 o'clock, May 7.

Gentlemen: About an hour past I received the en-
closed papers. Disperse them to your adjoining County.
Keep a copy of James Lockwood's letter ; and pray write
us what to do. We are for Onsloiv.

Wm. Cray, Edwd. Ward,

Seth Ward, Robert Snead.

Jos. French,
Enclosed is the last Gazette for Brunswick.

To the Wilmington and Brunsuick Committees.
For Cornelius Harnett, Esquire, Colonel John Ash, or
any one of the Committee for Wilmington. (Express.)

New River, May 7, 1775.

Received and forwarded by William Cray.

Wilmington, May 8, 1775, 4 o'clock, afternoon.

Dear Sir : I take the liberty to forward by express the
enclosed papers, which were received at 3 o'clock this af-
ternoon. If you should be at a loss for a man and horse,
the bearer will proceed as far as the Boundary House.
You will please direct to Mr. Marion, or any other gentle-
man, to forward the packet immediately to the Southward,
with the greatest possible despatch.

I am, with esteem, dear sir, your most obedient servant,

Corns. Harnett.

P. S. For God's sake send the man on without the least
delay; and write to Mr. Marion to forward it by night and
by day.

To Bichard Quince, Esquire, Brunswick.

Brunswick, May 8, 1775, 9 o'clock in the evening.

Sir : I take the liberty to forward by express the en-
closed Papers, which I just received from Wilmington ;
and I must entreat you to forward them to your community
at Georgetown, to be conveyed to Charlestown from yours,
with all speed. Enclosed is the newspaper, giving an ac-
count of the beginning of the battle; and a letter of what
happened after. Pray don't neglect a moment in forward-
ing. I am your humble servant, Richd. Quince.

To Isaac Marion, Esq., at the Boundary.

May 8, 1775.

Dear Sir : Though I know you stand in no need of
being prompted when your Country requires your service,
yet I cannot avoid writing to you, to beg you to forward
the Papers containing such important news ; and pray or-
der the express you send to ride night and day.

I am, dear sir, in the greatest haste, your most obedient
servant, R. Howe.

Isaac Marion, Esq., Boundary.

Boundary, May 9, 1775, Little River.

Gentlemen of the Committee: I have just now re-
ceived express from the Committees of the Northward
Provinces, desiring I would forward the enclosed Packet to
the Southern Committees. As yours is the nearest, I re-
quest, for the good of our Country, and the welfare of
our lives and liberties, and fortunes, you will not lose a mo-
ment's time, but despatch the same to the Committee of
Georgetown, to be forwarded to Charlestown.

In mean time, am, gentlemen, your obliged humble ser-
vant, &c., Isaac Marion.
To Danness Hankins, Josias Alison, and Samuel Dtoight,
Esquires, and Messrs. Francis and John Allston, gen-
tlemen of the Committee for Little River.

Wednesday, 1 o'clock, May 10, 1775.

Gentlemen : The enclosed Papers were just now de-
livered to me by an express from Little River. I make
not the least doubt but you will forward them with the ut-
most despatch, to the General Committee at Charlestown.
I am, gentlemen, your very humble servant,

Benja. Young.
To Paul Trapier, Esq., Chairman of the Committee at
Georgetown.

Half past 6, Wednesday evening.

Gentlemen : We have received your letter, and shall
be careful to execute, with all the diligence in our power,
whatever you have recommended. We send you by ex-

369

CORRESPONDENCE, PROCEEDINGS, fee., APRIL, 1775.

370

press a letter and newspaper, with momentous intelligence,
this instant arrived. We are your humble servants,'

Paul Trapier, P. Trapier, Junior,
S. Wragg, Anthony Bonneau.

making in Boston for a speedy march into the country,
impresses us with the absolute necessity of convening the
Provincial Congress at Concord, as soon as may be, agree-
able to a vote of Congress at their last session. You
The Committee of Intelligence in Charlestons, to the care therefore requested immediately to repair to Concord

of the Honourable William Henry Drayton, Esq.
Express.

are
as

Per

Salem, Massachusetts, April 20, 1775.

Great Britain, adieu ! No longer shall we honour you as
our mother ; you are become cruel ; you have not so much
bowels as the sea monsters towards their young ones. We
have cried to you for justice, but behold violence and blood-
shed ! Your sword is drawn offensively, and the sword of
New-England defensively ; by this stroke you have broken
us off from you, and effectually alienated us from you. O
Britain ! see you to your own house.

King George the Third, adieu ! No more shall we cry
to you for protection ; no more shall we bleed in defence
of your person. Your breach of covenant; your violation
of faith ; your turning a deaf ear to our cries for justice,
for covenanted protection and salvation from the oppressive,
tyrannical, and bloody measures of the British Parliament,
and putting a sanction upon all their measures to enslave
and butcher us, have dissolved our allegiance to your
Crown and Government. Your sword, that ought in jus-
tice to protect us, is now drawn with a witness °to destroy
u~. O George ! see thou to thine own house.

General Gage, pluck up stakes and begone ; you have
drawn the sword ; you have slain in cool blood a number
of innocent New-England men ; you have made the as-
sault, and be it known to you, the defensive sword of New-
England is now drawn ; it now studies just revenge, and
it will not be satisfied till your blood is shed, and the blood
of every son of violence under your command, and the
blood of every traitorous Tory under your protection :
therefore depart with all your master's forces; depart from
our territories ; return to your master soon, or destruction
will come upon you. Every moment you tarry in New-
England, in the character of your master's General, you
are viewed as an intruder, and must expect to be treated
by us as our inveterate enemy.

O my dear New- England, hear thou the alarm of war !
The call of Heaven is to arms ! to arms ! The sword of
Britain is drawn against us ; without provocation, how
many of our sons have been fired upon and slain in cool
blood, in the cool of the day ! What unheard-of barbarity
lias been committed on the sickly and helpless grey hairs
and innocent babes, by the British Troops ! Behold the
fruits of our being declared rebels by the British Parlia-
ment ! Behold what all New-England must expect to feel,
if we don't cut off and make a final end of those British
sons of violence, and of every base Tory among us, or con-
fine the latter to Simsbury mines. I beseech you, for
God's sake, and for your own sake, watch

the closest deliberations, and the collected wisdom of the
people, at this alarming crisis, are indispensably necessary
for the salvation of the Country.

Richard Devens, per order.
To the Members of the Provincial Congress.

you,
your own sake, watch against every
vice, every provocation of God Almighty against us;
against intemperance in drinking; against profane lan-
guage, and all debauchery ; and let us all rely on the arm
of the Most High ; and whether we tarry by the stuff, or
jeopard our lives in the high places of the field, let us all,
like good Jehoshaphat, address the Throne of God, saying,
" Behold how they reward us, to come to call us out of thy
possessions, which thou hast given us to inherit! O our
God, wilt thou not judge them ? For we have no mi^ht
against them ; neither know we what to do ; but our eyes
are upon thee."

We are, my brethren, in a good cause ; and if God be
for us, we need not fear what man can do. Let us be wise,
be prudent, be firm, and courageous. The cause that
General Gage has undertaken to execute, is so manifestly
wrong, that he must be a terrour to himself. Our blood
shed by the Troops under his command, cries, and the
cry will soon appear to have reached Heaven against
him.

O thou righteous Judge of all the earth, awake for our
help. Amen and Amen. Johannes in Eremo.

Concord, Massachusetts, April 20, 1775.

Sir: The Army under General Gage having murdered

sundry inhabitants; this, with the industrious preparations

Fourth Series. — Vol. ii.

THE COMMITTEE OF SAFETY OF MASSACHUSETTS TO THE
GOVERNOUR OF CONNECTICUT.

Cambridge, April 20, 1775.

On Wednesday, the 19th instant, early in the morning,
a detachment of General Gage's Army marched into the
country to Lexington, about thirteen miles from Boston,
where they met with a small party of Minute-men exer-
cising, who had no intention of doing any injury to the
Regulars. But they fired upon our men without any pro-
vocation, killed eight of them the first onset, then marched
forward to Concord, where they destroyed the Magazines
and Stores for a considerable time. Our people, however,
mustered as soon as possible, and repulsed the Troops,
pursuing them quite down to Charlestown, until they
reached a place called Bunker's Hill, although they re-
ceived a very large reinforcement at Lexington, from Gen-
eral Gage. As the Troops have now commenced hostili-
ties, we think it our duty to exert our utmost strength to
save our Country from absolute slavery. We pray your
Honours would afford us all the assistance in your power,
and shall be glad that our brethren who come to our aid
may be supplied with Military Stores and Provisions, as
we have none of either more than is absolutely necessary
for ourselves. We pray God to direct you to such mea-
sures as shall tend to the salvation of our common liber-
ties. Per order of the Committee of Safety.

24

DOCTOR WARREN TO GENERAL GAGE.

Cambridge, April 20, 1775.

Sir : The unhappy situation into which this Colony is
thrown gives the greatest uneasiness to every man who re-
gards the welfare of the Empire, or feels for the distresses
of his fellow-men ; but even now much may be done to
alleviate the misfortunes that cannot be entirely remedied ;
and I think it of the utmost importance to us, that our con-
duct be such as that the contending parties may entirely
rely upon the honour and integrity of each other for the
punctual performance of any agreement that shall be made
between them. Your Excellency knows very well, I be-
lieve, the part I have taken in publick affairs; I ever
scorned disguise. I think I have done my duty; some
may think otherwise ; but be assured, Sir, as far as my in-
fluence goes, every thing which can be reasonably required
of us to do, shall be done; every thing promised, shall be
religiously performed. I should now be very glad to know
from you, Sir, how many days you desire may be allowed
for such as desire to remove to Boston with their effects
and what time you will allow the people in Boston for their
removal. When I have received that information, I will
repair to Congress, and hasten, as far as I am able, the
issuing a Proclamation. I beg leave to suggest that the
condition of only admitting thirty Wagons at a time into
the Town appears to me very inconvenient, and will pre-
vent the good effects of a Proclamation intended to be
issued for encouraging all wagoners to assist in removing
the effects from Boston with all possible speed. If your
Excellency will be pleased to take the matter into con-
sideration, and favour me as soon as may be with an an-
swer, it will lay me under a great obligation, as it so nearly
concerns the welfare of my friends in Boston. I have
many things which I wish to say to your Excellency, and
most sincerely wish I had broken through the formalities
which I thought due to your rank, and freely have told
you all I knew or thought of publick affairs; and I must
ever confess, whatever may be the event, that you gene-
rously gave me such an opening as I now think I ouuht to
have embraced ; but the true cause of my not doing it was
the knowledge I had of the vileness and treachery of many

371

CORRESPONDENCE, PROCEEDINGS, Jjc, APRIL, 1775.

372

persons around you, who I supposed had gained your en-
tire confidence. 1 am, &.c.

ADAM BABCOCK TO GOVERNOUR TRUMBULL.

New.Haven, April 20, 1775.

Sir : 1 have a Brig now ready for sea, on board of which
is laden twelve Oxen, bound for the foreign West-Indies.
She was cleared out the 15th instant, and has made several
attempts to sail, and once actually sailed, but by contrary
winds was obliged yesterday to put back, and must unlade
the Cattle she has on board, according to your Honour's
Proclamation, unless the circumstances attending this mat-
ter can induce your Honour to grant a dispensation. I
will use no other argument in favour of this application
than this: that as the Cattle were purchased, cleared out,
and shipped before the Embargo was laid, and indeed be-
fore the cause that occasioned the Embargo existed, there
was consequently no intention in me to defeat the wise pre-
caution of our Legislature, and have been so long a time
on ship-board, at a great expense. Whether, under these
circumstances, 1 may not claim, at least ask an exemption,
as in my apprehension the publick will apparently sustain a
greater loss through me, as an individual, from her being
slopped and unloaded, (as I have neither time nor oppor-
tunity to supply the place of the Oxen with Horses before
there may be danger of sending out any Vessel,) than from
her proceeding to perform her voyage ; especially when I
assure your Honour that the nett proceeds of this Vessel
and Cargo are ordered to be laid out in the West-Indies,
and shipped home to me in certain articles which the com-
munity are in much greater want of at this unhappy period
than of Cattle. I shall wait your Honour's determination
by the return of the young man, Mr. Adam Helme, who
waits on you with this ; and in the mean time have the
honour to be, with the greatest respect, your Honour's
most obedient and humble servant, Adam Babcock.

The Honourable Jonathan Trumbull, Governour of the
Colony of Connecticut.

Williamsburgh, Virginia, April 21, 1775.

This morning, between three and four o'clock, all the
Gunpowder in the Magazine, to the amount, as we hear,
of about twenty barrels, was carried off in his Excellency
the Governour's Wagon, escorted by Captain Collins and a
detachment of Marines from the armed Schooner Magda-
len, now lying at Bunvell's Ferry, and lodged on board
that Vessel. As soon as the news of this manoeuvre took
wind, the whole City was alarmed, and much exasperated ;
and numbers got themselves in readiness to repair to the
Palace to demand from the Governour a restoration of
what they so justly supposed was deposited in this Maga-
zine for the Country's defence. However, as some gen-
tlemen represented the propriety of remonstrating to the
Governour upon this occasion in a decent and respectful
manner, the Common Hall assembled, who, after delibera-
ting some time, waited upon his Excellency with the fol-
lowing Address, which was presented by the Honourable
Peyton Randolph, Esquire, Recorder of this City, and is
as follows :

To His Excellency the Right Honourable John Earl of
Dunmore, His Majesty's Lieutenant, Govcrnour-Gene-
ral, and Command tr-in-cliief of the Colony and Do-
minion of Virginia :
The humble Address of the Mayor, Recorder, Aldermen,
and Common Council of the City of Williamsburgh :
My Lord : We, His Majesty's dutiful and loyal subjects,
the Mayor, Recorder, Aldermen, and Common Council of
theCityof Williamsburgh. in Common Hall assembled, hum-
bly beg leave to represent to your Excellency that the inhabi-
tants of this City were this morning exceedingly alarmed
by a report that a large quantity of Gunpowder was, in the
preceding night, while they were sleeping in their beds, re-
moved from the publick Magazine in this City, and con-
veyed under an escort of Marines on board one of His Ma-
jesty's armed Vessels lying at a Ferry on James River.

We beg leave to represent to your Excellency, that as
this Magazine was erected at the publick expense of this
Colony, and appropriated to the safe-keeping of such mu-
nition as should be there lodged from time to time, for the

protection and security of the Country, by arming thereout
such of the Militia as might be necessary in case of inva-
sions and insurrections, they humbly conceive it to be the
only proper repository to be resorted to in times of immi-
nent danger.

We farther beg leave to inform your Excellency, that
from various reports at present prevailing in different parts
of the Country, we have too much reason to believe that
some wicked and designing persons have instilled the most
diabolical notions into the minds of our Slaves, and that,
therefore, the utmost attention to our internal security is
become the more necessary.

The circumstances of this City, my Lord, we consider
as peculiar and critical. The inhabitants, from the situa-
tion of the Magazine in the middle of their City, have for
a long tract of time been exposed to all those dangers which
have happened in many Countries from explosions and
other accidents. They have, from time to lime, thought
it incumbent on them to guard the Magazine. For their
security, they have for some time past judged it necessary
to keep strong patrols on foot. In their present circum-
stances, then, to have the chief and necessary means of
their defence removed, cannot but be extremely alarming.

Considering ourselves as guardians of the City, we there-
fore humbly desire to be informed by your Excellency
upon what motives and for what particular purpose the
Powder has been carried off in such a manner : and we
earnestly entreat your Excellency to order it to be imme-
diately returned to the Magazine.

To which Address His Excellency returned this verbal
Answer:
That hearing of an insurrection in a neighbouring Coun-
ty, he had removed the Powder from the Magazine, where
he did not think it secure, to a place where it would be in
perfect security ; and that, upon his word and honour,
whenever it was wanted on any insurrection, it should be
delivered in half an hour. That he had removed it in the
night time to prevent any alarm ; and that Captain Collins
had his express commands for the part he had acted. He
was surprised to hear the people were under arms on this
occasion, and that he should not think it prudent to put
Powder into their hands in such a situation.

CUMBERLAND COUNTY (VIRGINIA) COMMITTEE.

At a meeting of the Committee for Cumberland County,
held on Friday, the 21st of April, 1775:

The Chairman recommended that the Committee should
take under consideration the proceedings of the late Pro-
vincial Convention, held at Richmond Town, in the County
of Henrico, from Monday, the 20th of March, to Monday,
the 27th of the same month.

The Committee accordingly proceeded to the considera-
tion thereof, and, after the maturest deliberation, came to
the following Resolutions :

Resolved, unanimously, That this Committee docordially
approve the Proceedings and Resolutions of the late Pro-
vincial Convention, and also recommend it, in the strong-
est terms, to the inhabitants of this County, to observe
them in every particular, and that they use every means
in their power to carry them into effect.

Resolved, unanimously, That the most cordial thanks of
this Committee, and of all the inhabitants of the County,
are justly due to the Honourable Peyton Randolph, Esq.,
and the rest of the worthy Delegates who represented this
Colony in the late Provincial Convention, for the cheerful
undertaking, and faithful discharge of the trust reposed in
them, and for the wisdom and spirit displayed in their pro-
ceedings. George Carrington, Chairman.

CONNECTICUT COMMITTEE OF CORRESPONDENCE TO JOHN
HANCOCK.

Lebanon, April 21, 1775.

Dear Sir: Two of the Delegates from your Congress
were with Governour Trumbull, and left him this morning
at 7 o'clock. Writs are gone out, to call the General As-
sembly to meet at Hartford next Wednesday. Every pre-
paration is making to support your Province. We have
many reports of what is doing with you, the particulars we

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CORRESPONDENCE, PROCEEDINGS, fcc, APRIL: 1775

374

cannot yet got with precision. The ardour of our people is
such, that they can't be kept back. The Colonels are to
forward part of the best men and most ready, as fast as
possible, the remainder to be ready at a moment's warning.
These are the present movements with us. All that we
learn from you is, that a Brigade marched from Boston to-
wards Concord last Tuesday evening; that they fired on a
party of Provincials at that place, and that they were at-
tacked by the Provincials, and obliged to retreat ; and that
General Gage was marching out to cover their retreat ;
that numbers were killed on both sides. Indeed, our ac-
counts are so various, we know not what to rely on. We
therefore have despatched Mr. David Trumbull, the son
of Governour Trumbull, with orders to proceed to such
place as he shall find you at, and get such intelligence as
may be depended on, that we may know how to concert
the measures necessary and best for us to take.

We shall anxiously expect to hear from you, and hope
to have such intelligence as you may judge necessary to
i;ive us, by the return of Mr. Trumbull.

We are, with anxious prayers for your safety, and a
happy event of this most disagreeable contest, gentlemen,
your most humble servants, Wm. Williams,

Nath. Wales, Jr.,
Joseph Trumbull.
To the Honourable John Hancock, Esquire, President of

the Provincial Congress of the Massachusetts-Bay. Per

Mr. Trumbull.

P. S. We hope despatches will be immediately sent off
from you, with most authentick accounts of the late trans-
actions, to forestall such exaggerated accounts as may go
from the Army and Navy ; it may prevent harsh measures,
and strengthen the hands of our friends in Britain. We
hint this step, and dare say no hints, however free, at such
a time as this, will be taken amiss.

COMMITTEE OF NEWBURYPORT TO THE COMMITTEE OF
SAFETY.

Nowburyport, April 21, 1775.

Sir : We have sent forward the bearer, to have your
orders with all possible despatch by his return, whether
the forces that are coming from the Province of New-
Hampshire, and from the eastern parts of our Province,'
who, by expresses, are hastening along, should be sent
back, especially those who live near the sea-shore. We
are well informed numbers passed our River yesterday, at
the upper Ferries, besides four Companies through this
Town, on their way to you. We shall follow your direc-
tions, and, if ordered, take care to find expresses as far
Eastward as necessary'. We have a party of men from
this Town (upwards of one hundred) upon their march to
you. If they are not wanted, and you think proper, you
can order our express to turn them back. We sent off
last evening two field-pieces to you; if not wanted, they
may be of some use here. We would be glad of your di-
rections by our next Express, or by any safe opportunity,
as soon as you can attend, how we shall act in cast; any
Cutters should come in here, more especially if they bring
land forces with them. If provisions of any sort are wanted,
give us an account what sort, and we will forward what we
are able, with all despatch. If, in giving answers to these
inquiries, it be necessary for you to give any private infor-
mation, please to direct to Benjamin Greenlcaf, Esquire,
sealed, and enclose it in another letter, with your informa-
tion that may be communicated, sealed, to the Chairman
of the Committee for this Town, by whose order, and in
whose behalf, I am, Sir, your most humble servant,

B. Greenleaf.

COMMITTEE OF SAFETY OF MASSACHUSETTS TO NEW-HAMP-
SHIRE CONGRESS.

Cambridge, April 22, 1775.

Gentlemen: On Wednesday, the 19th instant, early in
the morning, a Brigade of General Gage's Army marched
into the country to Lexington, about thirteen miles from
Boston, where they mel with a small party of our Militia
exercising, who had no intention of doing injury to the Regu-
lars ; but they fired upon our men, without any provocation,
killed eight of them, and wounded two others. Then they

marched to Concord, where they destroyed part of our
Magazines and Stores. However, our people collected as
soon as possible, and repulsed the Troops, puisuing them
quite down to Charlestov-n, where they encamped on a
place called Bunker's Hill. The First Division, which
consisted of about one thousand men, went to Concord, and
the Second Division, about the same number, who took the
same route, supported the First Division as well as they
could, but all were obliged to retire. Our loss is sup-
posed between twenty and thirty killed, and a few wounded.
Their loss is much larger. As the Troops have now begun
hostilities, we think it our duty to exert our utmost strength
to save our Country from absolute slavery, and we pray
you to afford us all the assistance in your power ; and we
shall be glad that our brethren, who may come to our aid,
may be supplied with all necessary provisions and military
stores, as we have no more of either than what is abso-
lutely necessary for ourselves. We pray God to direct
you to such measures as shall tend to the salvation of our
common liberties.

We are, gentlemen, with great respect, your distressed
friends and brethren. By order of the Committee of
Safety. J. Palmer.

To the Honourable John Wentworth, Esquire, Chairman
of the Provincial Congress of New- Hampshire. Per
favour of Mr. John Griffin.

BENJAMIN GREENLEAF TO THE COMMITTEE OF CORRESPON-
DENCE IN HAMPTON.

Newburyport, April 22, 1775.

Gentlemen : We have now received information from
the Committee of Safety at Cambridge, who are appointed
by the Province, that they have a sufficient numberof men
arrived, and therefore would not have any more come from
the Northward for the present, but think it needful they
should be ready to guard the sea-coasts in their own neigh-
bourhood. Pray forward this intelligence as far as may be
needful, and with as much despatch as possible.

We w^ere unhappily thrown into distress yesterday, by
false accounts received by two or three persons, and spread
abroad, of a number of Soldiers being landed at Ipswich
and murdering the inhabitants. We have since heard that
it arose in the first place from a discovery of some small
Vessels near the entrance of their River — one, at least,
known to be a Cutter — and it was apprehended that they
were come to relieve the captives there in Jail.

I am, gentlemen, your most humble servant,

B. Greenleaf.
To the Committee of Correspondence in Hampton.

COMMITTEE OF SAFETY TO THE INHABITANTS OF BOSTON.

April 22, 1775.

Gentlemen: The Committee of Safety being informed
that General Gage has proposed a Treaty with the inhabi-
tants of the Town of Boston, wherein he stipulates that
the women and children, with all their effects, shall have
safe conduct without the Garrison, and their men also, upon
condition that the male inhabitants within the Town shall,
on their part, solemnly engage that they will not take up
arms against the King's Troops within the Town, should
an attack be made from without. We cannot but esteem
these conditions to be just and reasonable; and as the in-
habitants are in danger of suffering from the want of pro-
visions, which, in this time of general confusion, cannot be
conveyed into the Town, are willing you should enter into,
and faithfully keep the engagement aforementioned, said to
be required of you, and to remove yourselves, women,
children, and effects, as soon as may be.

Per order.

BOSTON COMMITTEE TO DR. JOSEPH WARREN.

Boston, April 23, 1775.

Sir : The following proceedings contain the Agreement
made between his Excellency General Gage and the Town
of Boston. You are informed it is the earnest desire of
the inhabitants, that such persons as incline to remove into
the Town with their effects, may be permitted so to do
without molestation, and they having appointed us as a

375

CORRESPONDENCE, PROCEEDINGS, fee, APRIL, 1775.

376

Committee to write to you on this subject, we hope this re-
quest will be complied with, as the Town, in a very full
meeting, was unanimous in this and every other vote, re-
lating to this matter ; and we beg the favour of as speedy
an answer as may be. We are, most respectfully, your
obedient humble servants,

James Bowdoin, John Pitts,
John Scollay, Ezek. Goldthwait,
Tim. Newell, Alexander Hill,

Thos. Marshall, Henderson Inches,
Samuel Austin, Edward Payne.
To Doctor Joseph Warren.

AGREEMENT BETWEEN GENERAL GAGE AND THE TOWN OF
BOSTON.

Boston, ss.

At a meeting of the Freeholders and other Inhabitants
of the Town of Boston, legally warned, on Saturday, the
IBM day of April, A. D. 1775,

The Hon. James Bowdoin, Esq., Moderator.

The Moderator informed the Town that the present
meeting was in consequence of an interview between his
Excellency General Gage and the Selectmen, at his de-
sire, and mentioned the substance of the conversation that
passed ; and also that the Selectmen, with the advice and
assistance of a number of gentlemen, had prepared several
votes, which they thought it might be proper for the Town
to pass; and which, in conjunction with the assurances
that had been given to his Excellency by the Selectmen,
they apprehended, from the interview aforesaid, would be
satisfactory to his Excellency : Whereupon, the Honour-
able James Bowdoin, Esquire, Ezekiel Goldthwait, Esq.,
Mr. Henderson Inches, Mr. Edward Payne, Mr. Alexan-
der Hill, together with the Selectmen, viz : John Scollay,
Esquire, Mr. Timothy Newell, Mr. Samuel Austin, Tho-
mas Marshall, Esquire, and Mr. John Pills were appoint-
ed a Committee to consider of this important matter, and
were desired to report as soon as may be.

The said Committee made report, and, after some de-
bate, the two following Votes passed unanimously, viz:

His Excellency General Gage, in an interview with the
Selectmen, having represented that there was a large body
of men in arms assembled in the neighbourhood of this
Town, with hostile intentions against His Majesty's Troops
stationed here, and that in case the Troops should be at-
tacked by them, and the attack should he aided by the
inhabitants of the Town, it might issue in very unhappy
consequences to the Town : For prevention whereof, his
Excellency assured the Selectmen, that whatever might be
the event of the attack, he would take effectual care that
the Troops should do no damage, nor commit any act of
violence in the Town ; but that the lives and properties of
the inhabitants should be protected and secured, if the
inhabitants behaved peaceably : And the Selectmen, in
behalf of the Town, engaged for the peaceable behaviour
of the inhabitants accordingly. In confirmation of which
engagement,

Voted, That as the Town have behaved peaceably to-
wards the Troops hitherto, they hereby engage to continue
to do so ; and the Peace Officers and all other Town Offi-
cers are enjoined, and the Magistrates, and all persons of
influence in the Town, are earnestly requested to exert
their utmost endeavours to preserve the peace of the Town.
The Town at the same time relies on the assurances of
his Excellency that no insult, violence, or damage shall be
done to the persons or property of the inhabitants, either
by the Troops or the King's Ships, whatever may be the
event of the attack his Excellency seems to apprehend ;
but of which attack we have no knowledge or information
whatever, as all communication between the Town and
Country has been interrupted by his Excellency's order
ever since the collection of the body aforesaid.

Whereas the communication between this Town and the
Country, both by land and by water, is at present stopped
by order of his Excellency General Gage, and the inhabi-
tants cannot be supplied with Provisions, Fuel, and other
necessaries of life ; by which means the sick and all inva-
lids must suffer greatly and immediately, and the inhabi-
tants in general be distressed, especially such (which is by
much the greatest part) as have not had the means of laying

in a stock of provisions, but depend for supplies from thecoun-
try for their daily support, and may be in danger of perish-
ing, unless the communication be opened : Therefore,

Resolved, That a Committee be appointed to wait on
his Excellency General Gage, to represent to him the state
of the Town in this regard, and to remind his Excellency
of his declarations in answer to Addresses made to him
when the works on the Neck were erecting, viz : " That he
had no intention of stopping up the avenue to the Town,
or of obstructing the inhabitants or any of the country peo-
ple coming in or going out of the Town as usual ; that he
had no intention to prevent the free egress and regress of
any person to and from the Town, or of reducing it to the
state of a garrison ; that he could not possibly intercept the
intercourse between the Town and Country ;" that " it is
his duty and interest to encourage it ; and it is as much
inconsistent with his duty and interest to form the strange
scheme of reducing the inhabitants to a state of humilia-
tion and vassalage, by stopping their supplies. ' Also, to
represent to him that, in consequence of these repeated
assurances of his Excellency, the fears and apprehensions
of the inhabitants had generally subsided, and many per-
sons, who had determined to remove with their effects,
have remained in Town, whilst others largely concerned in
navigation had introduced many valuable goods, in full
confidence of the promised security. That the Town think
his Excellency incapable of acting on principles inconsist-
ent with honour, justice, and humanity, and therefore that
they desire his Excellency will please to give orders for
opening the communication, not only for bringing Provisions
into the Town, but also that the inhabitants, such of them
as incline, may retire from the Town with their effects
without molestation.

The same Committee were appointed to wait upon the
General with the foregoing votes.

Then the meeting was adjourned to Sabbath morning,
ten o'clock.

Sabbath morning, Ten o'clock, April 33, 1775.

The Town met, according to adjournment.

The said Committee made a verbal report. Whereupon
it was desired that the Committee would withdraw and re-
duce their Report to writing, which was accordingly done,
and is as follows, viz :

" The Committee appointed by the Town to wait upon
his Excellency General Gage with a copy of the two Votes
passed by the Town yesterday in the afternoon, report :
That they being read to him by the Committee, and a long
conference had with him upon the subject-matter contained
in the said votes, his Excellency finally gave for answer,
that upon the inhabitants in general lodging their arms in
Faneuil-Hall, or any other convenient place, under the
care of the Selectmen, marked with the names of the
respective owners, that all such inhabitants as are inclined
may depart from the Town with their families and effects,
and those who remain may depend upon his protection ;
and that the arms aforesaid, at a suitable time, would be
returned to the owners."

Whereupon, Voted, That the Town accept of his Ex-
cellency's proposal, and will lodge their arms with the
Selectmen accordingly.

Voted, That the same Committee be desired to wait
upon his Excellency the Governour with the vote of the
Town complying with his Excellency's proposal, and the
Committee are desired to request of his Excellency that
the removal may be by land and water, as may be most
convenient for the inhabitants.

" The Committee appointed to wait upon his Excellen-
cy report, that they accordingly waited upon him, and read
the vote of the Town, which was accepted by his Excel-
lency ; and at the same time his Excellency agreed that
the inhabitants might remove from the Town by land and
water with their effects, within the limits prescribed by the
Port Act ; and also informed the Committee he would de-
sire the Admiral to lend his boats to facilitate the removal
of the effects of the inhabitants, and would allow carriages
to pass and repass for that purpose ; likewise would take
care that the poor that may remain in Town should not
suffer for want of provision after their own stock is expend-
ed, and desire that a letter might be wrote to Dr. Warren,

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CORRESPONDENCE, PROCEEDINGS, &c, APRIL, 1775.

378

Chairman of the Committee of the Congress, that those
persons in the country who may incline to remove into
Boston with their effects, may have liberty so to do with-
out molestation."

The Town unanimously accepted of the foregoing Re-
port, and desired the inhabitants would deliver their arms
to the Selectmen as soon as may be.

The meeting was then adjourned to Tuesday morning,
the 25th of April, ten o'clock in the forenoon, and was
continued by successive adjournments to Thursday, P. M.,
the 27th of April, 1775, when the Town met, to receive
the further report of the Committee. They reported as
follows, viz :

" The Committee waited on his Excellency General
Gage, with the papers containing the account of the arms
delivered to the Selectmen, and the return made to them
by the Constables of the Town relative to the delivery of
arms in their respective Wards. After long conversation
on the subject of the inhabitants removing themselves and
effects from the Town, his Excellency being obliged to at-
tend other business, left the affair to be settled with Briga-
dier General Robinson, who, after further conference, and
reporting the substance of it to General Gage, returned to
the Committee, and declared to them that General Gage
gives liberty to the inhabitants to remove out of Town with
their effects ; and desires that such inhabitants as intend to
remove would give their names to the Selectmen, and sig-
nify whether they mean to convey out their effects by land
or water, in order that passes may be prepared ; for which
passes, application may be made to General Robinson any
time after eight o'clock to-morrow morning ; such passes to
be had as soon as persons wanting them shall be ready to
depart."

Voted, That the foregoing Report be accepted, the Town
relying on the honour and faith of General Gage that he
will perform his part of the contract, as they have faith-
fully performed their part of it.

Then the meeting was adjourned to Monday next, May 1,
ten o'clock in the forenoon.

Henry Alline, Jun., Town Clerk, pro tern.

In Provincial Congress, Watertown,
April 23, 1775.

Resolved, unanimously, That James Sullivan, Esquire,
a Member of this Congress, be immediately despatched to
the Colony of New- Hampshire, as a Delegate from this
body, to deliver to the Provincial Congress there the fol-
lowing Letter ; and further inform thern of the present
situation of this Colony, and report the effect of his mis-
sion to this Congress, as soon as possible.

Watertown, April 23, 1775.

Before this letter can reach you, we doubt not you have
been sufficiently notified of the late alarming Resolutions
of the British Parliament, wherein we see ourselves de-
clared Rebels, and all our sister Colonies in New-England,
in common with us, marked out for the severest punish-
ments. In consequence thereof, General Gage has suddenly
commenced hostilities by a large body of Troops under his
command, secretly detached in the night of the 18th in-
stant, which, on the morning ensuing, had actually begun
the slaughter of the innocent inhabitants, in the very heart
of the Country, before any intentions of that kind were
suspected. And although the roused virtue of our bre-
thren in the neighbourhood soon compelled them to precipi-
tate retreat, they marked their savage route with depre-
dations, ruin, and butcheries hardly to be matched by the
armies of any civilized Nation on the globe.

Justly alarmed by these manoeuvres, vast multitudes of
the good people of this and the neighbouring Colonies, are
now assembled in the vicinity of Boston for the protection
of the Country. The gates of that devoted Town are
shut, and the miserable inhabitants are pent up there, with
a licentious soldiery, as in one common prison. Large re-
inforcements of the Troops under General Gage are hourly
expected ; and no reason is left us to doubt that his whole
force, as soon as collected, will be employed for the de-
struction, first of this, and then of our sister Colonies en-
gaged in the same interesting cause; and that all America
will be speedily reduced to the most abject slavery, unless
it is immediately defended by arms.

Unavoidably reduced to this necessity, by circumstances
that will justify us before God and the impartial world,
this Congress, after solemn deliberation and application to
Heaven for direction in the case, have this day unanimous-
ly resolved, That it is our duty immediately to establish
an Army for the maintenance of the most invaluable rights
of human nature, and the immediate defence of this Colo-
ny, where the first attack is made ; that 30,000 men are
necessary to be forthwith raised in the New- En gland Colo-
nies for that purpose, and that of that force 13,600 shall
be established by this Colony without delay.

We have not a doubt of the virtue of the Colony of
New-Hampshire, no less engaged than ourselves in the
glorious cause at stake, and equally involved in the mise-
ries that must ensue, should it be lost. In testimony of
our reliance on you, we have sent this express to give you
the earliest notice of these Resolutions, and the circum-
stances that have necessitated them ; and earnestly to re-
quest your speediest concurrence and such assistance in
this most important cause, as the present urgent necessity
demands, and the many former evidences we have had of
the spirit and firmness of the Colony of New-Hampshire
give us the highest reason to expect. We are, gentlemen,
your most obedient humble servants,

Joseph Warren, Pres't pro tern.

P. S. The great confusions in this Colony prevent our
being able to send with this letter such depositions as might
give full and particular information of the facts above re-
ferred to; but measures are taking for that purpose, and
we shall not fail to transmit the result of them by the first
opportunity.

JEDIDIAH FOSTER TO THE MASSACHUSETTS CONGRESS.

Brookfield, April 23, 1775.

Honoured Sir : Mr. Davidson immediately proceeded
from Concord to Governour Trumbull with the papers, as
directed by the Congress; but from the then appearance
of affairs he did not think proper to call the Assembly.
Early on Thursday morning Mr. Davidson, with myself,
set out for Lebanon to Governour Trumbull, who, about
two hours before our arrival, had received the tragical nar-
rative from Colonel Palmer, and cheerfully consented to
call the Assembly of the Colony to be held at Hartford,
on Wednesday next, ten o'clock in the morning, at which
time the Delegates will attend as they were directed by
the Congress. I purpose, as soon as I have discharged my
trust there, to auend my duty at the Congress. Wishing
the Congress may be under the special guidance and direc-
tion of Heaven, 1 am, Sir, your most humble servant,

Jedidiah Foster.

To the President of the Honourable Provincial Congress
of the Massachusetts-Bay.

ANDREW M'CLARY TO THE NEW-HAMPSHIRE CONGRESS.

Cambridge, April 23, 1775.

Honourable Gentlemen : Being in great haste, but
beg leave to give you some broken intelligence relating to
the Army that is now assembled here. The number is un-
known at present, and as there is a Council of War now
sitting, their result is still kept a profound secret. The
Army has already provided a number of Cannon, (there is
more still coming,) and is providing a great plenty of war-
like stores, implements, and utensils. There are now about
two thousand brave and hearty resolute New-Hampshire
men, full of vigour and blood, from the interiour parts of the
Province, which labour under a great disadvantage for not
being under proper regulations, for want of Field Officers.
In our present situation we have no voice in the Council
of War, which makes a great difficulty. Pray, gentlemen,
take these important matters under your mature considera-
tion, and I doubt not but your wisdom will dictate and
point out such measures as will be most conducive to ex-
tricate us from our present difficulties. The conduct of a
certain person belonging to New-Hampshire will have a
vast tendency to stigmatize the Province most ignomini-
ously. Yesterday it was reported throughout the New-
Hampshire Troops, that one Mr. Espy, who appeared in
the character of a Captain at the head of a Company, had

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CORRESPONDENCE, PROCEEDINGS, kc, APRIL, 1775.

380

been to die General, and received a verbal express from
him that all New-Hampshire men were dismissed, and that
they might return home ; and by the insinuation of him
and his busy emissaries, about live or six hundred of our
men inconsiderately marched off for home. Captain Cillcy
and I were three mites from Cambridge when we received
the intelligence, which was, to our unspeakable surprise,
for us to return before ihe work was done. We immediately
repaired to the General to know the certainty of the report,
and on making application to him be told us that it was an
absolute falsehood, for lie never had any such thought;
whereas he very highly valued New- Hampshire men,
always understanding them to be the best of soldiers, and
that he would not have any of them to depart for home
on any consideration whatever till matters were further com-
promised ; and strictly inquired for the man in order to have
him confronted. We replied the man was departed, and
therefore we could not conform to his request. But since,
we understand that his conduct hath stopped a number of
men from coming in, and some officers that tarried have
sent for their men to return back. Pray, gentlemen, don't
let it always be reported that New-Hampshire men were
always brave Soldiers, but no Commanders. The de-
sertion of those men causes much uneasiness among the
remaining Troops, for we are obliged to use our utmost in-
fluence to persuade them to tarry. Gentlemen, I am, with
all imaginable respect, yours and the Country's most obe-
dient and humble servant, Andrew McClary.

MARYLAND CONVENTION.

At a Meeting of the Deputies appointed by the several
Counties of the Province of Maryland, at the City of
Annapolis, on Monday, the 24th of April, 1775, and
continued, by adjournment from day to day, till the 3d of
May, were present one hundred Members.

The Honourable Matthew Tilghman, Esquire, in the
chair ; Gabriel Duval appointed Clerk.

Resolved unanimously, That His Majesty King George
the Third is lawful and rightful King of Great Britain,
and the Dominions thereunto belonging ; and that the good
people of this Province do owe, and will bear faith and
true allegiance to our said lawful and rightful King, as the
Sovereign, constitutional guardian, and protector of the
rights of all his subjects.

On motion, that a Committee be appointed to prepare a
draught of a Letter to the Committee of Correspondence
for Philadelphia, acquainting them that this Convention
had received from gentlemen of their Committee an ex-
tract of a letter from New-York, communicating the very
interesting and important intelligence, that a number of
Troops were ordered for that City, which was to be the
place of Arms, and fortified ; that all communication be-
tween that City and the Southern and Eastern Provinces,
was to be cut off; that the people of that Colony were
concerting means to prevent such scheme, were embodying
themselves, and desired the immediate assistance of the
Southward Colonies, before the arrival of the Troops ;
that this Convention were greatly alarmed, and deeply
concerned for that Colony, and therefore desired to be ac-
quainted with the authenticity of that account, and the
particulars thereof; and that the Committee of Philadelphia
would give this Convention as full and particular accounts
of the stale of the Colony of New- York, and of their own
Province, as they possibly can ; what conduct it is expect-
ed will be adopted by their Colony, and of all other mat-
ters which they may think of consequence to the general
welfare of America.

The previous question was moved for and put, whether
the above question be now put ? And resolved in the affirm-
ative.

The above question was then put, and resolved in the
affirmative.

The following Letter was accordingly sent to the Com-
mittee for the City and Liberties of Philadelphia :

Annapolis, Saturday, April 23, 1775, 5 o'clock, afternoon.

Gentlemen: The extract of the letter from New-
York, communicating the very interesting and important
intelligence, " that a number of Troops were ordered for
that City, which was to be the place of Arms, and fortified ;

that all communication between that City and the South-
ern and Eastern Provinces, was to be cut off; that the
people of that Colony were concerting means to prevent
such schemes, were embodying themselves, and desired the
immediate assistance of the Southward Colonies, before the
arrival of the Troops," was this morning, about 10 o'clock,
received, and immediately laid before the Provincial Con-
vention now sitting.

The Convention are deeply concerned for New-York,
and request to be acquainted with the authenticity of that
account, and the particulars thereof; and that you will ad-
vise them what conduct it is expected will be held by New-
York, your Province, and the Jerseys, on the very inter-
esting and trying occasion.

By order of the Convention :

Mat. Tilgiiman, Chairman of the Convention.

Resolved, unanimously, That all Exportations from this
Province to Qucbcck, Nova-Scotia, Georgia, and New-
foundland, or any part of the Fishing Coasts, or Fishing
Islands, and to the Town of Boston, ought immediately to
be suspended, until the Continental Congress shall give
further orders therein.

Resolved, That it is earnestly recommended to the in-
habitants of this Province to continue the regulation of the
Militia, as recommended by the last Provincial Convention ;
and that particular attention be paid to forming and exer-
cising the Militia throughout this Province ; and that the
Subscriptions for the purposes by the said Convention re-
commended, be forthwith completed and applied.

Resolved, That it is the sense of this Convention, that
the Honourable Matthew Tilghman, Esquire, Thomas
Johnson, Junior, Robert Goldsborough, Samuel Chase,
William Paca, John Hall, and Thomas Stone, Esquires,
the Delegates of our Province, or any three or more of
them, do join with the Delegates of the other Colonies and
Provinces, at such time and place as shall be agreed on ;
and in conjunction with them, deliberate upon the present
distressed and alarming state of the British Colonies in
North America, and concur with them in such measures
as shall be thought necessary for the defence and protection
thereof, and most conducive to the publick welfare. And
as this Convention has nothing so much at heart as a hap-
py reconciliation of the differences between the Mother
Country and the British Colonies in North America, upon
a firm basis of constitutional freedom, so has it a confidence
in the wisdom and prudence of the said Delegates, that
they will not proceed to the last extremity, unless, in their
judgments, they shall be convinced that such measure is
indispensably necessary for the safety and preservation of
our liberties and privileges. That, in the present state of
publick affairs, this Convention is sensible that the mea-
sures to be adopted by the Continental Congress, must de-
pend much upon events which may happen to arise ; and
relying firmly upon the wisdom and integrity of their Del-
egates, this Province will, as far as it is in their power,
carry into execution such measures as shall be agreed on
and recommended by the General Congress.

Resolved, That it be recommended that the sum of Six
Hundred Pounds be raised in the different Counties of this
Province by subscription, under the direction of the several
Committees, in the following proportion :

In St. Mary's County, Thirty-Six Pounds; Charles,
Forty-Eight Pounds ; Calvert, Twenty-Two Pounds ;
Prince George's, Fifty Pounds; Anne Arundel, Fifty-
Two Pounds ; Frederick, Eighty Pounds ; Baltimore,
Fifty-Six Pounds ; Harford, Twenty-Eight Pounds ;
Worcester, Thirty -Two Pounds ; Somerset, Thirty-Two
Pounds ; Dorchester, Twenty-Nine Pounds ; Caroline,
Twenty-One Pounds ; Talbot, Twenty-Four Pounds ;
Queen-Anne's, Thirty-Two Pounds; Kent, Thirty-Four
Pounds ; Cecil, Twenty-Four Pounds.

And that the several sums to be raised on the Western
Shore be paid to Mr. Charles Wallace, of the City of An-
napolis ; and the several sums to be raised on the Eastern
Shore be paid to Mr Thomas Ringgold, of Chestirtotvn,
to defray the expenses of the Delegates at the ensuing
Continental Congress.

Resolved, That it is recommended to all ranks and de-
nominations of people, to use their utmost endeavours to
preserve peace and good order throughout this Province.

381

CORRESPONDENCE, PROCEEDINGS, fee, APRIL, 1775.

382

This Convention, deeply considering the distressed and
perplexed situation of British America, the weakness of
all human counsels, and that the hearts of all men are in
the disposal of the Supreme Being, do recommend that the
eleventh day of this instant may be observed throughout
this Province as a day of fasting and humiliation ; and that
the inhabitants of this Province, on that day, in an especial
manner, by prayer and supplication, humbly and devoutly
implore the blessing, support, and protection of Almighty
God, for the preservation of the rights and liberties of
America, and the restoration of peace, union, and happi-
ness to the British Empire.

This Convention, taking into consideration, that the time
proposed for the meeting of the next Continental Congress
is near at hand, and that it is highly expedient that the
Delegates of this Province should attend the said Con-
gress as early in their session as may be, where the state
of the City and Colony of New- York, as well as the cir-
cumstances of the other Colonies and Provinces, may be
best known, and measures for the security of the City and
Colony of New- York, as well as the safety of all British
America, be best concerted and provided for.

And whereas, it is now altogether uncertain when an
answer may be received to the Letter sent on Saturday last
to the Committee of Correspondence in the City of Phila-
delphia ; and it being necessary that the Members of this
Convention should return to their respective Counties, it is,
therefore.

Resolved, That this Convention do now rise ; and it is
recommended to such of the Counties in this Province,
where it may be necessary, forthwith to make choice of
Deputies to represent them in a Provincial Convention, to
be held in the City of Annapolis, on Monday, the 22d of
May, unless an earlier or later day should be appointed by
the Delegates of this Province, or any three of them, ap-
pointed to attend the Continental Congress.

The following were received by return of the express
sent by the Provincial Convention to the Committee of
Correspondence for Philadelphia :

Philadelphia, May 1, 1775.

Gentlemen : We have duly received your favour of the
29th ultimo. As the accounts from Neiv- York were not
handed to this Committee through a channel that gave us
the satisfaction we could wish ; and as they were very im-
portant, we thought proper immediately to despatch some
of our members to that place, in order that they might, on
the spot, learn the true situation of affairs there, and what the
inhabitants of New- York expect from the Southern Colo-
nies. On their return, or on the receipt of any certain in-
telligence, we shall immediately communicate the particu-
lars to you.

In the mean time we have to inform you, that, upon the
receipt of the late intelligence, this City and County im-
mediately took the alarm, and are arming and forming with
all possible expedition ; and, by accounts from the other
Counties in this Province, the same spirit prevails every
where ; and we hope, in a short time, we shall be in a con-
dition to unite our efforts with the rest of the Colonies.

Enclosed we send you a letter from Newport, Rhode-
Island, which contains a particular account of the situation
of affairs to the Eastward, together with some important
intelligence. By order of the Committee :

John Nixon, Chairman.
To Matthew Tilghman, Esq., Chairman of the Provincial

Convention of the Province of Maryland, now sitting at

Annapolis.

Newport, April 95, 1775.

Gentlemen : You have, without doubt, before this
time, heard of the bloody; savage massacre of a number of
the inhabitants of Lexington, a Town about twelve miles
northwest from Boston, perpetrated by a detachment of
aboutt welve hundred of the King's Troops, and what en-
sued thereon. We enclose you two accounts, which may
be more particular than any you have yet received. The
one was brought us by a gentleman who left Cambridgeon
Thursday last, in the forenoon, and is contained in the
handbill ; the other is in the newspaper. Since we re-
ceived these accounts, we have been credibly informed that
the number of the King's Troops killed and taken amounts

to about three hundred, besides, many were wounded and
carried into Boston; the number of Americans to about
forty killed and wounded, and it is said about four or five
taken prisoners. A large body of men, not less than
twenty thousand, are assembled, and form a semicircle from
Charleslown to Roxbury; what their plan of operation
will be, is unknown. By a gentleman of the Committee
of Correspondence for the Town of Providence, in this
Colony, who arrived here this afternoon, we are informed
that the Provincial Congress of the Massachusetts- Ha y.
now sitting, have determined that a Standing Army of thir-
ty thousand men should be raised in the New-England
Colonies, expecting that the Southern Colonies will assist
in furnishing moneys for their support. That our people
had taken possession of a hill on Dorchester Point, which
commands General Gage's works on Boston Neck, and
that they had made intrenchments within gunshot of those
works at Roxbury. That two Men-of-\Var had arrived at
Boston, and brought the three Generals that have been
expected ; and that six thousand Troops had embarked for
that place when those Men-of-War left England. There
were not more than three hundred Americans in a body at
any one time during the action on Wednesday, and they
acquitted themselves with such intrepidity, as has con-
vinced the King's Officers that Americans can and will
fight.

All communication between the Town of Boston and
the other parts of the Colony, being shut up, and things
being in a state of confusion, renders it almost impossible
to obtain any certain particular intelligence from that quar-
tet ; however, the foregoing account, we think, may be
depended upon.

We had hoped that the dispute between Great Britain
and these Colonies would have been settled without blood-
shed ; but the Parliament of Great Britain, it seems, have
determined to push their iniquitous unconstitutional mea-
sures by dint of arms. The sword of civil war has been
drawn by the King's Troops, and sheathed in the bowels
of our countrymen. May peace, with liberty, soon pre-
sent the scabbard ; and may Americans never be obliged
again to take up arms but against a foreign foe.

We hope that the union which has so remarkably taken
place throughout the American Colonies, may acquire, if
possible, greater firmness, by this unjustifiable, inhuman,
murderous attack upon our countrymen ; for, upon an uni-
versal firmly cemented union of the American Colonies,
under God, depends the salvation and establishment of
American liberty. I am, in behalf of the Committee of
Correspondence for the Town of Newport, gentlemen,
your and America's sincere friend,

William Ellekv.

To the Committee of Correspondence for the City of
Philadelphia.

In Committee, Philadelphia, May 1, 1775; received
per Captain Whitman this day, and forwarded to Anna-
polis. J. B. Smith, Secretary of Committee.

Newark (new-Jersey) committee.
At a Meeting of the Committee of Observation for the
Township of Neioark, April 24, 1775, present, eighteen
Members :

Mr. Caleb Camp, Chairman.

The Chairman having opened the business of the meet-
ing, and related the purport of the expresses lately received
from Boston, the following motions were made, and agreed
to unanimously :

That the members of this Committee are willing, at this
alarming crisis, to risk their lives and fortunes in support
of American liberty ; and that it be recommended to our
constituents to give all necessary support in their power to
our brethren in the Province of Massachusetts-Bay, in the
present alarming exigency.

That it be also recommended to the Captains of the
Militia in this Township to muster and exercise their re-
spective Companies at least once every week, and carefully
to exact that each man be provided with arms and ammu-
nition, as the Militia Law directs.

That it be requested of all heads of families and masters
of apprentices, to encourage all of proper age under their

883

CORRESPONDENCE, PROCEEDINGS, fcc, APRIL, 1775.

-■■584

direction to learn the military exercise, and to allow them
such portions of time as may be necessary to make them
perfect therein. Robert Johnston, Cltrk.

NEW-YORK COMMITTEE TO GOVERNOUR TRUMBULL.

New-York, April 24, 1775.

Dear Sir: As the most unjustifiable hostilities on the
part of Great Britain have actually commenced against
America, it is thought not only prudent, but absolutely ne-
cessary and justifiable in the sight of God and man, to avail
ourselves of every opportunity that may offer, in order to
preserve our liberties and religion, as well as to prevent the
effusion of blood as much as possible. Actuated by no
other motives, we take the liberty of informing you of the
arrival of the Packet this afternoon, in which there are des-
patches for General Gage, containing, no doubt, matters
of the utmost importance to all these Colonies. It is there-
fore recommended to your most serious consideration, to
fall on the most probable plan for intercepting them imme-
diately on the receipt of this, as it is expected they will be
forwarded very speedily, perhaps in the morning, or at
farthest by noon. If they go by land from here, we think
both roads ought to be strictly guarded, on the first notice
of this. But as there is no arriving at an absolute certainty
whether they go by land or water, we think an express
ought to be directly sent as far as Newport and Providence
at farthest, and every other caution taken that your pru-
dence can dictate, and your zeal prompt you to think of.
If the intelligence gained should be much better than can
be reasonably expected, it may save an infinite expense
and trouble to the Continent ; but if otherwise, it may save
the lives of thousands, by enabling the friends of this bleed-
ing land to defeat the designs of its implacable and re-
morseless enemies. So that let it be viewed in either light,
it appears to us to be an affair of the greatest magnitude.
Perhaps it may be asked why it was not attempted here ?
To which, let it be observed, there is a weighty objection,
which is this : the late melancholy accounts from Boston
have had a most excellent effect in uniting the inhabitants
of this City ; insomuch that we have been able to stop all
supplies from the Army, and get possession of the City
Arms, and are now guarding the Powder and them ; but
should the foregoing attempt succeed or not, it is thought
it would tend to throw more power into the hands of our
enemies. We most ardently wish that your and our honest
endeavours to serve the cause of liberty may be attended
with all the success that the righteousness of the cause can
entitle it to.

It is expected that the general despatches, to prevent
suspicion, may be directed to some popular person in the
Massachusetts-Bay, &sc, perhaps to Hancock or Adams,

iiC.

Oliver Delancy, Junior, who is now here from Boston
in behalf of the Army, may be the person who will carry
them, in which case you are to know that he is a lusty, fat,
ruddy looking young fellow, between twenty and thirty
years of age. We are yours, Sec

regulations and orders, binding ourselves by all that is dear
and sacred carefully and constantly to observe and keep
them.

In the first place we will conduct ourselves decently and
inoffensively as we march, both to our countrymen and one
another, paying that regard to the advice, admonition, and
reproof of our Officers, which their station justly entitles
them to expect, ever considering the dignity of our own
character, and that we are not mercenaries, whose views
extend no farther than pay and plunder, whose principles
are such, that every path that leads to the obtaining these
is agreeable, though wading through the blood of their
countrymen ; but men acquainted with, and feeling the most
generous fondness for the liberties and unalienable rights
of mankind, and who are, in the course of Divine Provi-
dence, called to the honourable service of hazarding our
lives in their defence.

Secondly. Drunkenness, gaming, profaneness, and every
vice of that nature shall be avoided by ourselves, and dis-
countenanced by us in others.

Thirdly. So long as we continue in our present situation
of a voluntary independent Company, we engage to sub-
mit on all occasions to such decisions as shall be made and
given by the majority of the Offieers we have chosen ; and
when any difference arises between man and man, it shall
be laid before the Officers aforesaid, and their decision shall
be final. We mean by Officers, the Captain, Lieutenants,
Ensign, Sergeants, Clerk, and Corporals; the Captain, or
in his absence the Commanding Officer, to be the Modera-
tor, and have a turning or casting voice in all debates, from
whom all orders shall from time to time issue. Scorning
all ignoble motives, and superiour to the low and slavish
practice of enforcing on men their duty by blows, it is
agreed that when private admonition for any offence by
any of our body committed will not reform, publick shall
be made ; and if that should not have the desired effect,
after proper pains taken, and the same repeated, such in-
corrigible person shall be turned out of the Company, as
totally unworthy of serving in so great and glorious a cause,
and be delivered over to suffer the contempt of his coun-
trymen.

As to particular orders, it shall from time to time be in
the power of the Officers to make and vary them as occa-
sion may require, as to delivering our provisions, ammuni-
tion, rules, and orders for marching, &,c. The annexed
order for the present we think pertinent, and agreeable to
our mind. To which, with the additions or variations that
may be made by our said Officers, we bind ourselves by
the ties above mentioned to submit.

In witness whereof, we have hereunto set our hands,
this 24th of April, 1775.

Agreement subscribed by Captain Arnold and his Com-
pany of fifty persons, when they set out from Connec-
ticut as Volunteers to assist the Provincials at Cam-
bridge.

To all Christian people believing in and relying on that
God, to whom our enemies have at last forced us to
appeal:

Be it known that we, the subscribers, having taken up
arms for the relief of our brethren, and defence of their as
well as our just rights and privileges, declare to the world
that we, from the heart, disavow every thought of rebellion
to His Majesty as supreme head of the British Empire, or
opposition to legal authority, and shall, on every occasion,
manifest to the world, by our conduct, this to be our fixed
principle. Driven to the last necessity, and obliged to have
recourse to arms in defence of our lives and liberties, and,
from the suddenness of the occasion, deprived of that legal
authority, the dictates of which wo ever with pleasure obey,
find it necessary, for preventing disorders, irregularities, and
misunderstandings in the course of our march and service,
solemnly to agree to and with each other on the following

GENERAL WARD TO THE MASSACHUSETTS CONGRESS.

Head Quarters, April 24, 1775.

Gentlemen : My situation is such, that if I have not
enlisting orders immediately I shall be left all alone. It is
impossible to keep the men here, excepting something be
done. I therefore pray that the plan may be completed
and handed to me this morning, that you, gentlemen of the
Congress, issue orders for enlisting men. I am, gentlemen,
yours, &.c. A. Ward.

To the Hon. the Delegates of the Provincial Congress.

JOHN HANCOCK TO THE COMMITTEE OF SAFETY.

Worcester, April 24, 1775. )
Monday Evening. \

Gentlemen : Mr. S. Adams and myself, just arrived
here, find no intelligence from you, and no guard. We just
hear an express has just passed through this place to you,
from New- York, informing that Administration is bent upon
pushing matters, and that four Regiments are expected
there.

I low are we to proceed? Where are our bethren ? Surely
we ought to be supported. I had rather be with you, and,
at present, am fully determined to be with you before I
proceed. I beg, by the return of this express, to hear
from you, and pray furnish us with depositions of the con-
duct of the Troops, the certainty of their firing first, and
every circumstance relative to the conduct of the Troops,

385

CORRESPONDENCE, PROCEEDINGS, &c, APRIL, 17"

386

from the 19th instant to this time, that we may be able to
give some account of matters as we proceed, and especially
it Philadelphia. And I beg you would order your Secre-
tary to make out a copy of your proceedings since — what
has taken place, and what your plan is ; what prisoners we
have, and what they have of ours ; who of note was killed
on both sides ; who commands our forces. Are our men
in good spirits ? For God's sake do not suffer the spirit
to subside, until they have perfected the reduction of our
enemies. Boston must be entered. The Troops must be

sent away, or Our friends are valuable, but our

Country must be saved. I have an interest in that Town.
What can be the enjoyment of that to me, if I am obliged
to hold it at the will of General Gage, or any one else. I
doubt not your vigilance, your fortitude, and resolutions.
Do let us know how you proceed. We must have the
Castle — the Ships must be ... . Stop up the Harbour
against large Vessels coining. You know better what to
do than I can point out. Where is Cushing? Are Mr.
Payne and Mr. John Adams to be with us. What are we
to depend upon? We travel rather as deserters, which 1
will not submit to. I will return and join you, if I cannot
travel in reputation. I wish to hear from you. Pray spend
a thought upon our situation. I will not detain this man,
as I want much to hear from you. How goes on the Con-
gress ? Who is your President ? Are the Members hearty ?
Pray remember Mr. Adams and myself to all friends. God
be with you.

I am, gentlemen, your faithful and hearty countryman,

John Hancock.

Pray give me a particular answer to my queries.
To the Gentlemen Committee, Sic, &tc, &c.

OLIVER PRESCOTT TO THE COMMITTEE OF SAFETY.

Groton, April 24, 1775.

Gentlemen: I think if an order should pass for the es-
tablishment of a Town Guard, to be kept in a prudent
manner, in every Town in this Province, it would have a
great tendency to deter and detect villains and their accom-
plices. The passes that people bring this way are generally
without date, or assignment to any person or place, so that
a man may pass to Africa with the same order. Pardon
my freedom, and allow me to subscribe, gentlemen, your
most obedient, very humble servant,

Oliver Prescott.

To the Committee of Safety.

MASSACHUSETTS COMMITTEE OF SAFETY TO THE CONGRESS
OF NEW-HAMPSHIRE.

April 24, 1775.
Our friends from New-Hampshire having shewn their
readiness to assist us in this day of distress, we therefore
thought it best to give orders for enlisting such as were pre-
sent in the service of the Colony, as many desired some-
thing may be done to hold them together until the resolve
of your Congress is known, when we are ready and desirous
they should be discharged from us, and put under such com-
mand as you shall direct. Colonel Sargeant has been so
kind as to afford his utmost assistance in concluding this
matter. We are, &tc, &c.

H. JACKSON TO COLONEL JEREMIAH LEE.

Poitsmouth, New-Hampshire, April 24, 1775.

Dear Sir : Although this is no time for ceremony or
compliments, yet so great is the pleasure I feel on your es-
cape from the hands of wicked and violent men, that I can-
not help congratulating you. May God Almighty continue
to be your safety and defence.

Could it be thought advisable for us to leave the sea-
ports, I should long before this have been with you, at the
head of a Company as good as ever twang'd a bow, infe-
riour in military discipline to none ; they are anxious and
eager to be with you.

You well know that the art military has been my hobby-
horse for a long time past. I have vanity enough to think
that the recommendation of an immediate perusal of the
enclosed volume, to the Officers in the United Army, will

Fourth Series. — Vol. ii.

not be thought impertinent at this time, considering the na-
ture of our Country ; considering the natural genius of our
men, no piece could be better adapted to our circum-
stances.

Our men are natural partisans. Witness the Rogers,
Starkey, and Shepherd, &.c, &sc. Did they not, in the
last War, take the very sentries from off the walls of our
enemies' Fortresses, in the heart of their Country ? I can't
help thinking that some Horse might be employed to great
advantage, if our adversaries should ever venture abroad
again. I have published some pieces on this subject in our
papers, but the New-Hampshire Gazette can hardly be
called a proper channel to convey one's ideas to the pub-
lick. Might not some of the principal parts of the Par-
tisan be given in manuscript to some of our officers ? Dear
sir, I hope you will not construe this, my humble opinion,
into impertinent dictation. We are all embarked in one
cause, and from the ideas of all (though some may be sim-
ple) some things of consequence may be collected. With
humble submission to the better judgment of every one, I
conclude,

Your most obedient, most obliged humble servant,

H. Jackson.

P. S. 1 have been in my sulky more than once to pay
you a visit, but my friends have prevented me. When op-
portunity offers, remember me to Mrs. Lee and family.

As I apprehend there is not many of the books in the
Country, you will make what use of this you think proper,
so that I may have it again hereafter.

Yours, H. J.

To Colonel Jeremiah Lee.

EXTRACT OF A LETTER FROM LONDON tO A GENTLEMAN IN
MASSACHUSETTS, DATED APRIL 25, 1775.

A steady friend to America called upon me this after-
noon, to acquaint me with the following intelligence, com-
municated to him by this day, which you may rely

upon as a fact. The said that the Administration,

on Friday, received advices from General Gage to the
eighteenth of March, wherein he acknowledges the receipt
of the King's order to apprehend Messrs. Cushing, Ad-
ams, Hancock, &c, and send them over to England to be
tried ; but that the second orders, which were to hang them
in Boston, he said the General had not then received. The
General expressed his fears on the occasion ; and in hopes
of their being reversed, he should delay the execution a
while longer, because he must, if the orders were fulfilled,
come to an engagement, the event of which he had every
reason to apprehend would be fatal to himself and the
King's Troops, as the Massachusetts Government had at
least fifteen thousand men ready trained for the onset, and,
besides, had every publick and private road occupied by
the Militia, so as to prevent his marching into the country,
and which were, at the same time, ready to facilitate any
attempt against the Army ; on which unwelcome situation
he earnestly wished for a reinforcement, if that disagreeable
order must be effected. The General also wrote that the
Standard was hoisted by the people at Salem, and multi-
tudes flocked to it, which would not be the case should the
Royal Standard be erected ; added, that he now believed
America would carry their point ; that many of the Admin-
istration were of the same mind, and sincerely wished they
had pursued more gentle measures with the Colonies. He
said Lord North was evidently uneasy, and that Govern-
ment dreaded the news by the April Packet ; that they
suppressed this intelligence from General Gage, because
of the instant effect it would have on the Stocks. He ac-
knowledged the Nation was ready for a revolution, if any
enterprising genius would step forth, and which would cer-
tainly be the case if blood was ever drawn in America.
He blames Hutchinson much, and says Administration
charges him with duplicity, in telling them they ought to
have been more active, and that they would have made the
Massachusetts submit; to others, that Administration had
gone much further than he advised. Be this as it may, he
added that the King consults him, places a confidence in
what he says, and has actually fixed his salary at two thou-
sand Pounds per annum for life, which had much chagrined
some of the Administration, who ardently wished him given.

25

387

CORRESPONDENCE, PROCEEDINGS, Stc, APRIL, 1775.

3&8

up as a sacrifice to both Countries. My intelligencer wishes,

if this letter should be published, that name might

be omitted, as the information was confidential. 1 shall only
add that my Country may be free if she will ; and that she
may have the virtue to play the man, is the aspiration of,
Sir, your most obedient servant.

EXTRACT OF A LETTER FROM LONDON, DATED APRIL

25, 1775.
We have our suspicions and fears on account of Phila-
delphia and New-York. If the great chain of continental
connection is once broken, the consequences may prove
very unhappy. It is the union of America which gives it
strength. Any defection, especially of such important
Provinces, would contribute greatly to encourage our ad-
versaries and check the endeavours of our friends. I am
not without hopes that the next Assembly of New- York
may be composed of different members from those of the
present. The Petition from the Assembly of New- Jersey
is arrived, but Lord Dartmouth, on pretence that it would
be improper to forward it to the King, without its being
brought to him by the Agent of the Province, refuses any
attention to it. When Doctor Franklin is here, Ministry
will receive no Petition by him. When he is not here,
they refuse Petitions because they are not offered by him.
However, all this is in perfect unison with the rest of their
conduct.

HUGH MERCER, ETC., TO COLONEL GEORGE WASHINGTON.

Fredericksburgh, April 25, 1775.

Sir: By intelligence from Williamsburgh, it appears
that Captain Collins, of His Majesty's Navy, at the head
of fifteen Marines, carried off the Powder from the Maga-
zine in that City on the night of Thursday last, and con-
veyed it on board his vessel, by order of the Governour.
The gentlemen of the Independent Company of this Town
think this first publick insult is not to be tamely submitted
to, and determine, with your approbation, to join any other
bodies of armed men who are willing to appear in support
of the honour of Virginia, as well as to secure the military
stores yet remaining in the Magazine. It is proposed to
march from hence on Saturday next for Williamsburgh,
properly accoutred as Light- horsemen.

Expresses are sent off to inform the Commanding Officers
of Companies in the adjacent Counties of this our resolu-
tion, and we shall wait prepared for your instructions and
their assistance.

We are, Sir, your humble servants,

Hugh Mercer, Alexander Spotswood,
G. Weedon, John Willis.

P. S. As we are not sufficiently supplied with Powder,
it may be proper to request of the gentlemen who join us
from Fairfax or Prince William, to come provided with
an over proportion of that article.

extract of a letter from one of the Virginia dele-
gates, on his way to the congress, to a friend in
Williamsburgh, dated april 25, 1775.

The storm thickens very fast. The New- Yorkers have
received intelligence that their Town is to be fortified, and
fourteen Regiments to be sent there to cut off the commu-
nication between the Southern and Eastern Colonies ; this
has united them to a man in the American cause. They
are forming themselves, and beg assistance from the South-
ward. This comes from the Philadelphia Committee.
The Bostonians have given a good drubbing to two thou-
sand Regulars.

GLOUCESTER COUNTY (VIRGINIA) COMMITTEE.

At an adjourned meeting of the Committee of Gloucester
County, at the Court-House of the said County, on Tues-
day, the 25th of April, 1775, they came to the following
Resolves :

Resolved, That as an encouragement to the manufac-
turing Gunpowder in this Colony, we will give a premium
of Twenty-Five Pounds to any person who shall produce
to the Chairman of this Committee, on or before the 25th

of October next, three hundred pounds of good Gunpowder
made in Virginia, which we will purchase at the current
price of that commodity ; and if it shall be proved to be
made wholly of the materials of this Colony, we will give
an additional premium of Ten Pounds.

Resolved, That we will give Fifty Pounds to any per-
son who shall produce to the Chairman of this Committee
sixty pair of good Wool, and sixty pair of good Cotton
Cards, on or before the 25th of October next, with an
authentick certificate of their having been made in this
Colony, and we will purchase the same at the usual price.

The Committee having received authentick information
that last Thursday night an Officer of one of His Majesty's
armed vessels, with a party of armed men, by express
command of Lord Dunmore, privately removed the Gun-
powder belonging to this Colony out of the Magazine,
it was unanimously Resolved, That the removal of the
Powder from the Publick Magazine on board one of His
Majesty's armed vessels, by order of the Governour, is
exceedingly alarming at this time.

Resolved, That his Lordship's verbal answer to the
Address of the Mayor, Recorder, Aldermen, and Common
Council of the City of Williamsburgh on that occasion, is
unsatisfactory, disrespectful, and evasive.

Resolved, That his Lordship, by this and other parts of
his conduct which have lately transpired, has justly forfeit-
ed all title to the confidence of the good people of Vir-
ginia.

Resolved, That the Powder ought immediately to be
restored.

Ordered, That the Clerk send by express copies of
these Resolves to each of the Printers, and they are desired
to publish them in their next Gazettes.

Jasper Clayton, Clerk.

BEDFORD COUNTY (VIRGINIA) COMMITTEE.

At a meeting of the Committee for the County of Bed-
ford, at the Court-House of the said County, on Tuesday,
the 25th of April, 1775,

John Talbot, Gentleman, Chairman.

The Resolves of the Convention held at the Town of
Richmond the 20th of March, 1775, were read :

Resolved unanimously, That this Committee will strict-
ly observe and adhere to the several Resolutions of the
said Convention, and will leave no means in their power
unessayed to carry the same into effect.

On motion made that this Committee be dissolved,

Resolved unanimously, That this Committee do consid-
er their delegation as now at an end, and that it be recom-
mended to the Freeholders of this County to meet at the
Court-House, on Tuesday, the 23d of next month, for the
purpose of electing Delegates to represent them in Colony
Convention for one year, and to elect another Committee.

At which time the Freeholders accordingly met, and
unanimously made choice of John Talbot and Charles
Lynch, Esquires, for their Delegates. And the following
gentlemen were duly elected for a Committee, (agreeable
to the Eleventh Article of the General Congress,) to wit :
John Talbot, Charles Lynch, William Meade, Richard
Stith, Guy Smith, John F. Patrick, James Callaway,
Gross Scruggs, David. Rice, Edmond Winston, James
Steptoe, John Ward, John Callaway, William Callaway,
Jun., John Quarles, Simon Miller, Haynes Morgan, Wil-
liam Leftwich, William Trigg, and George Stovall.

Then the said Committee immediately proceeded to
business, and entered into the following Resolves:

Resolved unanimously, That John Talbot, gentleman,
be appointed Chairman of this Committee.

Resolved. That Robert Alexander be appointed Clerk
of this Committee.

Resolved, That as Gunpowder is much wanted in this
County, and finding, from experience, that every article
made use of in the manufacturing (except Sulphur, of
which we have not made trial) can be easily procured here,
we will give a premium of Ten Pounds, current money, to
any person who shall first produce to this Committee
twenty-five pounds of good Sulphur, with an authentick
certificate that the same was refined from materials in this
Colony. Robert Alexander, Clerk.

389

CORRESPONDENCE, PROCEEDINGS, fcc, APRIL, 17*5.

390

TO MESSIEURS DELANCY, WHITE, COLDEN, WATTS, AND
COOPER, Of NEW-YORK.

Philadelphia, April 25, 1775.

It appears, from a number of authentick letters from
London, that the present hostile preparations against the
American Colonies were occasioned by nothing but assur-
ances from you of the defection and submission of the
Colony of New- York. It is impossible to unfold the ex-
tensive and complicated nature of your crimes. You have
defeated the attempts of the Congress to bring about a
constitutional reconciliaton with Great Britain. You have
involved your fellow-subjects in Britain, Ireland, and the
IVest-Indies, in all the distresses which must speedily fall
upon them from an interruption of their Trade with Ame-
rica. But you have done more ; you have unsheathed the
sword of Britain, and pointed it against the bosom of your
Country. You have held up a signal for a civil war; and
all the calamities of Towns in flames, a desolated Country,
butchered fathers, and weeping widows and children now
lay entirely at your doors. Go now, ye parricides, to the
Press of your associate, James Bivington, and there satiate
yourselves with your triumph. But do not presume too
much upon the impunity of Bernard, Hutchinson, and
other traitors to America. Repeated insults and unparal-
leled oppressions have reduced the Americans to a state of
desperation. Executions of villains in efligy will now no
longer gratify their resentment. The blood of your unfor-
tunate British and American fellow-subjects, who have
already fallen in Massachusetts-Bay, calls to Heaven for
vengeance against you. The injury you have done to your
Country cannot admit of a reparation. Fly for your lives,
or anticipate your doom by becoming your own execu-
tioners. Three Millions.

METCALF BOWLER TO THE MASSACHUSETTS CONGRESS.

Providence, April 25, 1775.

Sir : Your intelligence to the Governour and Company
of this Colony, by Edward Bawson, Esquire, was received
by the Assembly, who were sitting in Providence to con-
sult and act upon the present distresses into which your
Colony and all of New-England are involved.. You will
see by the enclosed papers what we have done. Notwith-
standing an exception of a very few individuals, you may
be assured that the Colony are firm and determined, and
that a greater unanimity scarce ever prevailed in the Lower
House than was found in the great questions before them.

We pray God that he would be graciously pleased to
bring to nothing the counsels and designs of wicked men
against our lives and liberties, and grant his blessing upon
our righteous contest. I am, in behalf of the General As-
sembly, your and your Colony's sincere friend and humble
servant, Metcalf Bowler, Speaker.

President of the Provincial Congress in Massachusetts.

TO THE SPEAKER OF THE HOUSE OF COMMONS OF CON-
NECTICUT.

Providence, April 25, 1775.

Sir : I am directed by the Lower House of Assembly
to inform you, that William Bradford, Esquire, and Mr.
Nathaniel Greene, two of the Members of this House, are
appointed " to wait upon the General Assembly of the Co-
lony of Connecticut, to consult upon measures for a com-
mon defence of the four New-England Colonies, and to
make report to the next session of Assembly," (which will
be next week at Providence,) at our general election.

The Assembly this day have passed an Act to raise
fifteen hundred good effective men, for the service of the
Colony, and the general cause. Great firmness and reso-
lution for the defence of the common rights of this Coun-
try, most certainly prevails in this Colony ; and greater
unanimity was scarce ever found than was manifested in
the Lower House on the great questions which came be-
fore them.

We pray God that he would be graciously pleased to
bring to nothing the counsels and designs of wicked men
against our lives and liberties, and grant a blessing upon
our righteous contest. I am, in behalf of the House, your
and your Colony's sincere friend and humble servant,

Metcalf Bowler, Speaker.

day and concurred.
.rke, D'y Sec'y.

Act of Rhode-Island for raising an Army of Observa-
tion.

At this very dangerous crisis of American affairs ; at a
time when we are surrounded with Fleets and Armies, that
threaten our immediate destruction ; at a time when the
fears and anxieties of the people throw them into the ut-
most distress, and totally prevent them from attending to
the common occupations of life — to prevent the mischiev-
ous consequences that must necessarily attend such a dis-
ordered state, and to restore peace to the minds of the
good people of this Colony, it is thought absolutely neces-
sary that a number of men be raised and embodied, pro-
perly armed and disciplined, to continue in this Colony, as
an Army of Observation ; to repel any insults or violence
that may be offered to the inhabitants ; and also, if it be
necessary for the safety and preservation of any of the Co-
lonies, that they be ordered to march out of this Colony,
and join and co-operate with the Forces of our neighbour-
ing Colonies.

It is Voted and Besolved, That fifteen hundred Men be
enlisted, raised, and embodied as aforesaid, with all the ex-
pedition and despatch that the nature of the thing will
admit of.

April 25, 1775. — In the House of Magistrates,

Besolved, nemine contradicente, That the afore-written
pass as an Act of this Assembly.

By order : Silas Downer, pro Clerk.

In the Upper House, Read the same day and o
By order: James Clarke, D'y

April 25, 1775. — In the House of Magistrates,
Besolved, That the Military Officers throughout this
Colony, or any other gentlemen who shall be willing, do
forthwith enlist fifteen hundred good and effective Men,
for the service of this Colony, and that each Man who
shall enlist shall receive a bounty of Four Dollars, and be
entitled to the monthly wages of One Pound Sixteen Shil-
lings.

Voted and passed. By order:

Silas Downer, pro Clerk.

In the Upper House, Read the same day and concurred.
By order : Jas. Clarke, D'y Sec'y.

April 25th, 1775. — In the Lower House, Besolved,
That the Speaker of this House write unto the President
of the Provincial Congress in Massachusetts-Bay, and the
Speaker of the House of Deputies in the Colony of Con-
necticut ; and that he transmit to the Congress copies of
the Resolutions of this House touching the matters con-
tained in the President's Letter. By order :

Silas Downer, pro Clerk.

In the Upper House, Providence, April 25, 1775.
We, the subscribers, professing true allegiance to His
Majesty King George the Third, beg leave to dissent from
the Vote of the House of Magistrates for enlisting, raising,
and embodying an Army of Observation of fifteen hundred
men, to repel any insults or violences that may be offered
to the inhabitants, and also, if it be necessary for the safety
and preservation of any of the Colonies, to march them
out of this Colony to join and co-operate with the Forces
of our neighbouring Colonies : because we are of the
opinion that such a measure will be attended with the most
fatal consequences to our Charter privileges ; involve this
Colony in all the horrours of a civil war ; and, as we con-
ceive, an open violation of the oath of allegiance which
we have severally taken upon our admission into the re-
spective offices we hold in the Colony.

J. Wanton, Darius Sessions,
Tho. Wickes, Wm. Potter.

JOHN HANCOCK TO THE COMMITTEE OF SAFETY.

Worcester, April 25, 1775.
Gentlemen : From a conviction of your disposition to
promote the publick good, I take the freedom to request
your countenance and good offices in favour of Mr. Ed-
ward Crafts, of this place, that he may be appointed to
the command of a Company. I know him well ; he is
capable. 1 beg your attention to this ; it will give great

391

CORRESPONDENCE, PROCEEDINGS, &c, APRIL, 1775.

392

satisfaction to Mr. Adams and myself, and to the people of
this County — do gratify us. 1 also beg leave you would
recommend to the notice of General Heath, in my name,
Mr. Nathaniel Nazro, of this Town, who is desirous of
being noticed in the Army; he is lively, active, and capa-
ble. My respects to Heath, and all friends. Pray General
Heath to take notice of this recommendation. God bless
you. Adieu. I am your real friend,

John Hancock.

i.OMMITTEE OF BOSTON TO THE COMMITTEE OF SAFETY.

Boston, April 25, 1775.

Sir: We shall communicate to the Committee of Dona-
tions the advice which your letter of yesterday gave us,
respecting the application of the donation money in their
hands, and are much obliged for your assurances that you
shall not fail to lend the inhabitants of the Town your best
assistance with regard to the furnishing them with habita-
tions in the country. They will also want a great number
of Wagons to carry off their effects, which, we hope, can
be had from the country, and which you will please to
permit to come in. We beg leave to repeat with earnest-
ness our desire and the desire of the Town, that those who
incline to remove from the country with their effects into
Boston, may do it without the least injury or interruption.
For this purpose you will permit us to wish that you would
publish proclamations or notifications that passes may be
bad for all such persons at Roxbury and Cambridge, and
such other places as you shall please to appoint. You
will have the goodness to excuse us for again soliciting that
this may be done as speedily as possible. We are, re-
spectfully, your humble servants,

James Bowdoin, Sam'l Austin,

Ezek'l Goldthwait, John Pitts,
John Scollay, Edward Payne,

Timothy Newell, Henderson Inches,
Thomas Marshall, Committee.

Permission will be given for thirty Wagons to enter the
Town at once, to carry away the effects of the inhabitants.
So soon as those have returned to the end of the Cause-
way leading to Roxbury, then others will be permitted to
come in. None will be permitted to enter till after sun-
rise, nor to remain after sunset. If any Vessel or Boat,
now in the Harbour, be employed to remove the inhabi-
tants' effects, security must be given that the Vessel or
Boat be returned. That leave be obtained for some per-
sons to go to the different Parishes to give notice to such
persons who incline to come with their effects into Boston,
that they may come without molestation ; and it is desired
that the Wagons and Vessels employed to come and carry
away the Goods of the inhabitants of Boston, may bring
the effects of those who are desirous to leave the country,
they paying half the charge.

Salem, April 25, 1775.

Last Wednesday the 19th of April, the Troops of His
Britannick Majesty commenced hostilities upon the peo-
ple of this Province, attended with circumstances of cruelty,
not less brutal than what our venerable ancestors received
from the vilest Savages of the wilderness. The particu-
lars relative to this interesting event, by which we are in-
volved in all the horrours of a civil war, we have endea-
voured to collect as well as the present confused state of
affairs will admit.

On Tuesday evening a detachment from the Army,
consisting, it is said, of eight or nine hundred men, com-
manded by Lieutenant Colonel S?nith, embarked at the
bottom of the Common in Boston, on board a number of
boats, and landed at Phipps's farm, a little way up Charles
River, from whence they proceeded with silence and ex-
pedition on their way to Concord, about eighteen miles
from Boston. The people were soon alarmed, and began
to assemble in several Towns, before daylight, in order to
watch the motion of the Troops. At Lexington, six miles
below Concord, a company of Militia, of about one hun-
dred men, mustered near the Meeting-House; the Troops
came in sight of them just before sunrise ; and running
within a few mds of them, the Commanding Officer accosted
the M ilitia in words to this effect : " Disperse, you rebels —
damn you, throw down your arms and disperse;" upon

which the Troops huzzaed, and immediately one or two
officers discharged their pistols, which were instantaneously
followed by the firing of four or five of the soldiers, and
then there seemed to be a general discharge from the
whole body : eight of our men were killed, and nine wound-
ed. In a few minutes after this action the enemy renewed
their inarch for Concord; at which place they destroyed
several Carriages, Carriage Wheels, and about twenty bar-
rels of Flour, all belonging to the Province. Here about
one hundred and fifty men going towards a bridge, of
which the enemy were in possession, the latter fired anil
killed two of our men, who then returned the fire, and
obliged the enemy to retreat back to Lexington, where
they met Lord Percy, with a large reinforcement, with
two pieces of cannon. The enemy now having a body of
about eighteen hundred men, made a halt, picked up many
of their dead, and took care of their wounded. At Meno-
tomy, a few of our men attacked a party of twelve of the
enemy, (carrying stores and provisions to the Troops.)
killed one of them, wounded several, made the rest prison-
ers, and took possession of all their arms, stores, provision?,
&.C., without any loss on our side. The enemy having
halted one or two hours at Lexington, found it necessary
to make a second retreat, carrying with them many of their
dead and wounded, who they put into chaises and on
horses that they found standing in the road. They continu-
ed their retreat from Lexington to Charlestown with great
precipitation ; and notwithstanding their field-pieces, our
people continued the pursuit, firing at them till they got to
Charlestown Neck, (which they reached a little after sun-
set.) over which the enemy passed, proceeded up Bunker's
Hill, and soon afterwards went into the Town, under the
protection of the Somerset Man-of- War of sixty-four guns.

In Lexington the enemy set fire to Deacon Joseph
Loring's house and barn, Mrs. Mullikin's house and shop,
and Mr. Joshua Bond's house and shop, which were all
consumed. They also set fire to several other houses,
but our people extinguished the flames. They pillaged
almost every house they passed by, breaking and destroy-
ing doors, windows, glasses, &.c, and carrying off cloth-
ing and other valuable effects. It appeared to be their
design to burn and destroy all before them ; and nothing
but our vigorous pursuit prevented their infernal purposes
from being put in execution. But the savage barbarity
exercised upon the bodies of our unfortunate brethren who
fell, is almost incredible : not contented with shooting down
the unarmed, aged, and infirm, they disregarded the cries
of the wounded, killing them without mercy, and mangling
their bodies in the most shocking manner.

We have the pleasure to say, that, notwithstanding the
highest provocations given by the enemy, not one instance
of cruelty, that we have heard of, was committed by our
victorious Militia ; but, listening to the merciful dictates of
the Christian religion, they "breathed higher sentiments of
humanity."

The consternation of the people of Charlestown, when
our enemies were entering the Town, is inexpressible ; the
Troops however behaved tolerably civil, and the people
have since nearly all left the Town.

The following is a List of the Provincials who were
killed and ivounded :

Cambridge. — Killed: William Marcy, Moses Rich-
ardson, John Hicks, Jason Russell, Jabish Wyman, Jason
Winship. Wounded : Captain Samuel Whittemore. Mis-
sing: Samuel Frost, Seth Russell.

Charlestown. — Killed: James Miller, and a son of
Captain William Barber.

Watertown. — Killed : Joseph Cooledgc.

Sudbuky. — Killed : Deacon Josiah llaynes, Asahei
Reed. Wounded: Joshua Haynes, Jim.

Acton. — Killed : Captain Isaac Davis, Abner Hos-
mer, James Hay ward.

Bedford. — Killed: Captain Jonathan Jl'ilson. Wound-
ed : Job Lane.

Needham. — Killed : Lieutenant John Bacon, Ser-
jeant Elisha Mills, Amos Mills, Nathaniel Chamberlain.
Jonathan Parker. Wounded : Captain Eleazer Kingt-
bury, atid a son of Doctor Tolman.

.Medford. — Killed: Henry Putnam, William Polly.

Newtown. — Wounded : Noah Wiswall.

393

CORRESPONDENCE, PROCEEDINGS, &c, APRIL, 1775.

394

Woburn. — Killed : *Asa Parker, Daniel Thomson.
Wounded: George Read, Jacob Bacon.

Lexington. — Killed : * Jonas Parker, *Robcrt Munroe,
Jedidiah Munroe, John Raymond ,* Samuel Hadley ,* Jona-
than Harrington, Jan., *Isaac Muzzy,* Caleb Harrington,
Nathaniel Woman, *John Brown. Wounded : Francis
Brown, John Bobbins, Solomon Peircc, John Tidd, Joseph
Comie, Ebenezcr Munroe, Jan., Thomas Jt'inship, Na-
thaniel Farmer, Prince, a negro.

Billerica. — Wounded : John Nichols, Timothy Blan-
ch ard.

Chelmsford. — Wounded : Deacon Aaron Chamber-
lain, Captain Oliver liarron.

Concord. — Wounded: Abel Prescott, Jun., Captain
Charles Miles, Captain Nathan Barrett.

Framingham. — Wounded : Daniel Hemenivay.

Stow. — Wounded : Daniel Conant.

Dedham. — Killed : Elias Haven. Wounded : Israel
Everett.

It ixbury. — Missing: Elijah Seaver.

Brookline. — Killed: Isaac Gardner, Esq.

Salem. — Killed : Benjamin Pcirce.

Danvers. — Killed: Henry Jacobs, Samuel Cook, Eb-
cnezer Goldthwait, George Southwick, Benjamin Deland,
Jan., Jotham Webb, Perly Putnam. Wounded : Nathan
Putnam, Dennis Wallis. Missing: Joseph Bell.

Beverly. — Killed: Mr. Kinnym. Wounded : Nathan-
iel Cleaves, Samuel Woodbury , William Dodge.

Lynn. — Killed : Abednego Ramsdell, Daniel Town-
send, William Flynt, Thomas Hadley. Wounded : Joshua
Felt, Timothy Munroe. Missing: Josiah Breed.

We have seen an account of the loss of the enemy,
said to have come from an Officer of one of the Men-of-
War; by which it appears that sixty-three of the Regu-
lars, and forty-nine Marines were killed, and one hundred
and three of both wounded : in all, two hundred and fifteen.
Lieutenant Gould of the Fourth Regiment, who is wound-
ed, and Lieutenant Potter of the Marines, and about
twelve soldiers, are prisoners.

Mr. James Howard and one of the Regulars discharged
their pieces at the same instant, and each killed the other.

Our brethren of Danvers who fell fighting for their
Country, were interred, with great solemnity and respect,
on Friday last.

The publick most sincerely sympathize with the friends
and relations of our deceased brethren, who gloriously
sacrificed their lives in fighting for the liberties of their
Country. By their noble and intrepid conduct, in helping
to defeat the forces of an ungrateful tyrant, they have
endeared their memories to the present generation, who
will transmit their names to posterity with the highest
honour.

of the Town was communicated to him for his instruction,
as follows, viz :

That it is the sense of this Town, that we are at all
times ready, as far as our circumstances will allow, to join
in the common cause of American liberty, and to assist
witli our lives and fortunes, as occasion may require, to
maintain our rights and liberties against all the hostile at-
tempts to deprive us of our rights and liberties, made by
the cruel and oppressive Acts of the British Parliament ;
and are always ready to bear our proportion to defend our
countrymen, and to assist in repelling force by force, in
such manner as the collective wisdom of the Province, in
Provincial Congress convened, shall judge most expe-
dient.

The Town Clerk being absent, the meeting ordered the

Selectmen to sign in behalf of the Town.

Nehemiah Smedt, > c- , .

K „r ' > Selectmen.

JNehemiah Woodcock, $

colonel JOHN wentworth to the new-hampshirf.
congress.

Somersworth, April 25, 1775, Tuesday, 6 o'clock.

Gentlemen : My health is such it is impracticable lor
me to be at Exeter this day ; I was very ill able to attend
last week. Hope you will agree on some method to pre-
vent the Soldiers being mustered on every false alarm :
otherwise we shall soon be distressed for the want of pro-
visions. It was surprising to see the number that collected
when I came from Exeter, at Newmarket, Durham, Do-
ver, Somersworth, &tc, some of whom came to Dover,
twenty miles or more. You must know the consequence,
if not prevented.

I heartily wish the Divine direction and blessing may
attend your consultations and determinations ; and after
assuring you I am heartily engaged in the same cause with
you, am your sincere friend and most obedient and humble
servant, John Wentworth.

To the Gentlemen of the Congress convened at Exeter.

JAMES SULLIVAN TO JOSEPH WARREN.

Exeter, New-Hampshire, April 25, 1775.

Sir : I have this day endeavoured to execute my em-
bassy to this Province with the greatest faithfulness.
There seems some opposition here to the assistance we
have expected from this quarter, but doubtless the des-
patches you receive with this will inform you of the deter-
mination of this Congress respecting the matter. My
being a Committee from the Congress of Massachusetts-
Bay, has procured me great respect here, which has been
shown by them as a body of individuals. I doubt not but
there will be the same politeness shown by you towards
their missionaries to our Congress.

I am, dear Sir, &c, &c. James Sullivan.

To Joseph Warren, Esq.. President of the Massachusetts

Congress.

INSTRUCTIONS OF THE INHABITANTS OF WILLI AMSTOWN,
MASS., TO SAMUEL KELLOGG.

At a meeting of the Inhabitants of the Town of Wil-
Uamstown, on the 25th day of April, A. D., 1775, the Se-
lectmen being Moderators of the meeting, and Ensign
Samuel Kellogg was unanimously chosen a Delegate to re-
present this Town in Provincial Congress ; and the sense

• Tlios i distinguished with this mark [ ♦ ) were killed by the first fire
of tho en my.

EXTRACT OF A LETTER FROM A MERCHANT IN LONDON.
TO HIS FRIEND IN VIRGINIA, DATED APRIL 26, 1775.

We have petitioned the King, Lords, and Commons, on
behalf of the Colonies, which has produced a promise
to repeal the Tea Act, Boston Port Bill, and those of this
Session of Parliament for restraining the Fishery and
Trade of some of the Colonies, to Great Britain, Ireland,
and the West-India Islands, provided your Assemblies will
raise a Revenue, in their own mode, towards the support of
Government, and to pay part of the interest, amounting to
more than three-fourths of the value of all the exports to
America, annually, for eleven years, ending at Christmas,
1773, of the heavy debt contracted the last war, which
was begun in and carried on for the defence and protection
of America. This, it is hoped, will restore harmony be-
tween all His Majesty's subjects on both sides the At lan-
tick ; and that the Resolve to forbear exporting the produce
of the industrious Planter, will be expunged and buried in
oblivion. If it should be strictly adhered to in the present
form, I doubt the beneficial branch of your commerce in
tobacco will, in a great measure, be lost to Virginia and
Maryland, as that trade will be turned into other channels,
and the markets will be plentifully supplied by the Hol-
land, Flanders, German, Russian, and Turkey Merchants.
as it grows plentifully in all those countries, and also in
Florida, from whence some very good tobacco has been
lately imported, so that the revenues will not be diminish-
ed, and the revenge intended against Government will ter-
minate in distressing, if not in the ruin, of the Planters and
a few Merchants, there being only twenty-two houses in
London who regularly send ships to import tobacco from
Virginia and Maryland.

Having a little leisure time on my hands, 1 thought it ex-
pedient to lay these facts before you, knowing you can make
a proper use of them, for the mutual interest of Greai
Britain and America. Peace cannot be restored by threats
or hostilities, but may be easily obtained by treaty, which
I most ardently wish for.

The Ship Catharine, Captain Potter, cleared out at the
Custom-House at Norfolk, in Virginia, last February,

395

CORRESPONDENCE, PROCEEDINGS, Etc., APRIL, 1775.

896

with twenty thousand five hundred staves, for Lisbon,
where she did not go, but arrived at Dunkirk, and deliv-
ered her cargo, with about ninety hogsheads of tobacco,
which were covered with the staves ; also, it is now dis-
covered, that two other ships have arrived with like car-
goes, and more are expected at the same port. Quere, Do
these ships bring their return in tea, brandy, claret, k,c,
to be smuggled into the Colony ? What will be the conse-
quence of this pernicious practice, time will discover.

CAPTAINS GRAYSON AND LEE TO COLONEL WASHINGTON.

Dumfries, April 26, 1775.

Sir : We have just received a letter from the Officers
of the Independent Company of Spottsylvania, which I
have herewith enclosed. We immediately called together
this Company, and had the vote put, whether they would
march to fViUiamsburgh for the purposes mentioned in
that Letter, which was carried unanimously.

We have nothing more to add, but that we are well as-
sured you may depend on them, either for that or any other
service, which respects the liberties of America. We ex-
pect your answer and determination by Mr. Davess.

We have the honour to be your most obedient servants.

By order of the Company :

William Grayson,
Phil. Rd. Frans. Lee.

HUGH MEKCER, ETC., TO CAPTAIN WILLIAM GRAYSON.

Fredericksburgh, Virginia, April 24, 1775.

Sir: From undoubted authority, we received here this
day, morning, the very disagreeable intelligence, that in
the night of Thursday last, Captain Collins, Commander of
one of His Majesty's Sloops of War, by command of his
Excellency the Governour, assisted by a Company of Ma-
rines, carried off all the Powder from the Magazine in the
City of fViUiamsburgh, and deposited it on board his vessel,
which lay at BurweWs Ferry, about five miles below the
City.

The said authority informs us that the Corporation of
the City of fViUiamsburgh addressed the Governour on
that occasion. The people have received no satisfaction ;
nor are they likely to recover the Powder, though it is so
very necessary for the security of the Country.

This being a day of meeting of the Independent Com-
pany of this Town, they considered it necessary to take
the matter into serious consideration, and are come to a
unanimous resolution, that a submission to so arbitrary an
exertion of Government, may not only prejudice the com-
mon cause, by introducing a suspicion of a defection of this
Colony from the noble pursuit, but will encourage the tools
of despotism to commit further acts of violence in this
Colony, and more especially subject the Arms in the Ma-
gazine to the same fate as the Powder.

In these sentiments, this Company could but determine
that a number of publick spirited gentlemen should em-
brace this opportunity of showing their zeal in the grand
cause, by marching to ffilliamsburgh to inquire into this
affair, and there to take such steps as may best answer the
purpose of recovering the Powder, and securing the Arms
now in the Magazine. To this end, they have determined
to hold themselves in readiness to march from this place as
Light-Horse, on Saturday morning ; and, in the mean
time, to submit the matter to the determination of yours
and the neighbouring Counties, to whom expresses are
purposely forwarded. We address you in the name of our
Company, as its Officers, and are, Sir, your very humble
servants, Hugh Mercer, G. Weedon,

Alex. Spotswood, Jno. Willis.

To Captain fVm. Grayson.

HENRICO COUNTY (VIRGINIA) COMMITTEE.

Iii Committee, Wednesday, April 26, 1775.
It appearing from the Virginia Gazette, of the 21st in-
stant, that the Powder in the publick Magazine, in the
City of JVilliamsburgh, deposited there at the expense of
the Country, and for the use of the people, in case of in-
vasion or insurrection, had been secretly removed, under
the clouds of the night, by Captain Collins, of the Mag-

dalen Sloop-of-War, and by order of the Governour ; and
the Committee having taken into their consideration the
Address of the Corporation of the City of fViUiamsburgh,
as also his Excellency's Answer thereunto, came to the
following Resolutions :

Resolved, That it is the opinion of this Committee, that
the removing of the said Gunpowder in the manner, at the
time, and for the reasons given for so doing, is an insult to
every freeman in this Country, a high reflection upon the
respectable Corporation of the City of I \ illiamsburgh, and
to the last degree cruel, under their circumstances, being
then threatened with an insurrection ; that we consider the
act itself as a determined step, tending towards establish-
ing that tyranny we so much dread, and which the British
Ministry, with unrelenting fury, have so long and are still
endeavouring to effect. And further, that we consider it
as injurious to the fame, and tending to destroy the pleas-
ing idea we had entertained of his Excellency's regard for
the happiness and true interests of this Colony.

Resolved, That we think it incumbent upon us to avow
our sentiments upon this occasion ; and while we declare
our detestation and abhorrence of the act, we will use our
best endeavours to procure an immediate restitution of the
said Powder to the Magazine, from whence it was taken.

Resolved, That as we cannot rest satisfied with his Ex-
cellency's Answer to the Address of the Corporation of
the City of fViUiamsburgh, that it be an instruction to the
Committee of Correspondence to write to the Committee
of the City of fViUiamsburgh, or to the Committee of
York or James City Counties, and procure the most au-
thentick intelligence respecting the same, and report to
this Committee at their next meeting.

By order of the Committee :

John Beckley, Clerk.

TO THE PUBLICK.

I find in Messieurs Bradfords Journal, " A Plan of an
union of the several Colonies, &tc, proposed by Benjamin
Franklin, Esquire, and unanimously agreed to by all the
Commissioners of the several Colonies, met, by order of
the Crown, at Albany, in July, 1754," with the following
introduction:

" The following Plan bears so strong a resemblance to
that introduced into the late Congress by a Delegate from
this Province, as his own, that I cannot but think it right to
take the child from its putative, and restore it to real pa-
rents. Had it been produced, as undoubtedly it ought to
have been, as perfect and complete as this, it is possible it
would have met with a more favourable reception ; but this,
perhaps, would not have so entirely corresponded with the
views of this gentleman, as it would have lessened his title
to it, and rendered his claim to be more doubtful or liable
to detection."

Having perused this introduction, I slightly ran my eye
over the plan, expecting to find after it, some strictures,
proving the alleged " strong resemblance" between it and
the one proposed in the late Congress, but not a remark
followed ; the reader is left to believe the similitude upon
the futile and false asseveration of an anonymous scribbler.
This is a practice, of late, grown too common with a num-
ber of men, who mean to mislead and deceive, and have
not even the appearance of facts or arguments to support
that deception. It certainly calls for a publick reprehen-
sion, because whenever it is done, it is an insult offered to
the publick, an affront to the understandings of men of
sense and integrity, and, could the authors be known, they
must become the objects of publick contempt.

The plan proposed in the late Congress, though offered
to their consideration with the most beneficent intentions
towards America, has unfortunately produced very mis-
chievous effects with some folks. It has given them infi-
nite anxiety, disgust, and distress. Why the mere proposal
of a plan of union between the subjects of the same state,
in order to the establishment of a permanent harmony be-
tween them, and to prevent the dreadful effects of a civil
war, should produce these effects, is difficult to determine,
unless it be because the plan is so replete with American
liberty, and consequently so opposite to their frantick scheme
of independency, and yet founded on such solid principles,
that they know not what to do with it. It was declared

397

CORRESPONDENCE, PROCEEDINGS, fee, APRIL, 177.3.

398

in Congress, by more than one of the Delegates, that it
was "big with destruction to the Colonies," and one of them
undertook, at a future day, to prove it so ; but near six
months have elapsed, and it is not done. We are told that
it is " idle, dangerous, whimsical, and ministerial." Such
are the opprobrious epithets which these angry gentlemen
have bestowed upon it, but the publick is not favoured with
a single argument to prove it deserving of any of them.
The merits of the plan remain uncanvassed and unsullied
but by their abuse, supported by their defamatory asser-
tions only. And such is the inconsistency of human con-
duct, when it becomes subservient to bad designs, that we
ever find it like the winds, perpetually changing from point
to point, until it blows opposite blasts, and incurs the most
palpable contradictions. Thus the enemies to this plan,
finding their attempts to persuade the publick by their posi-
tive assertions to believe that it was something very wicked
and inconsistent with the true interest of America, unwil-
lingly glide into an acknowledgment of its merit. For this
same plan, which not long since was pronounced idle, dan-
gerous, whimsical, and ministerial, is now of a sudden be-
come, instead of an " idle and whimsical plan," the real
child of a truly worthy great man, and one of the first phi-
losophers of the present age ; instead of being " dangerous
to America," it is the child of the warmest, wisest, and
most zealous of the friends of America ; and instead of be-
ing ministerial, it is the act of a gentleman the most anti-
ministerial of any one living. And we are further told, in
the same Journal, that it was not inserted in the Journal of
the last Congress, because it would " be disgracing their
records." Yet now we find that it bears a " strong resem-
blance to a plan " unanimously agreed to by all the Com-
missioners of the several Colonies, met at Albany in 1754,"
and consequently entered upon their records, as worthy of
the attention of all America. Such are the strange, capri-
cious, and inconsistent conduct of men who have resolved
to desert the paths of truth and candour.

And, as if truth and the convictions of reason were too
powerful to be longer suppressed, it is at last confessed, in
the introduction, that had the plan of 1774 " been pro-
duced as perfect and complete as the one of 1754, it would
have met with a more favourable reception." Here again
is a full acknowledgment that the former has not deserved
the abuse which has been cast upon it, and that it only re-
quired to be more " perfect and complete" to entitle it to a
favourable reception. It is a just observation of a great
Lawyer and a Statesman, " nihil simul et semel inceptum
et perfectum est;" that there is scarce any thing of human
invention which is at first perfect ; it may be concluded,
without derogating from the merit of the great man who
proposed it, that the plan of 1754 was, when proposed, in
this state, and that it did not assume its present form until
it had been canvassed by, and received the alterations and
amendments of the collected wisdom of the Governours
and Delegates of the several Colonies. Had the last Con-
gress acted the same candid and impartial part agreeable to
their first resolution, the last plan might have been made
equally perfect, if it contained the great outlines of a ra-
tional system of union between Great Britain and the Co-
lonies, it was their indispensable duty to furnish the mate-
rials wanting to finish the work within, and tocomplete the
superstructure. And it is yet the duty of the pretended
Patriots, who are wasting pen, ink, and paper, with their
calumnies, to point out its defects, and propose the proper
alterations and additions. And as none of them have been
capable of offering to the publick any other more perfect
system of union, this would certainly be acting the part of
real friends to their Country, and save them from the dis-
grace which must attend the continued proofs they are ex-
hibiting, of some deep-laid, dark designs, which they do
not care to unfold.

But it is further alleged, that the plan agreed in the Con-
gress at Albany, " bears a strong resemblance to that intro-
duced by a Delegate from this Province, into the late Con-
gress, as his own, and that it is but right to take the child
from it putative, and restore it to its real parents." It be-
ing a matter of no importance to the publick, whether the
ingenious Doctor Franklin, or the Pennsylvania Delegate,
was the author of the last plan, no notice would be taken
of the introduction, did not the above charge strike at the
honour and candour of the Delegate. But as this is the

sole design of it, it is hoped the publick will not think it
improper to have before them what may be said in vindi-
cation of his injured honour and character. A comparison
of the two plans, and a just representation of his conduct
at the time he proposed the last, will prove that this " strong
resemblance " exists neither in the names, the matter, or
substance of the plans, and were they the same, that he
had no intent to assume to himself the merit which be-
longed to another.

1. The plan agreed to at Albany is properly called, in
its title, " A Plan of an union of the several Colonies," &c. ;
and the one proposed by the Pennsylvania Delegate is,
" A Plan of union between Great Britain and the Colo-

nies.

2. The first forms a distinct inferiour Legislature for the
Colonies, composed of two perfect branches only, upon
the same principles and model of the Legislature of Penn-
sylvania, without any incorporation or union with the Bri-
tish Legislature. But the second proposes to establish a
grand British and American Legislature, by a political
union and incorporation of the Representatives of the free-
men of America with the King, Lords, and Commons.

3. By the first, the Legislative acts of the Grand Coun-
cil are made subject to the negative of the King, as Repre-
sentative of the British State, and afterwards to his nega-
tive, as one of the branches of the British Legislature.
By the second, this negative in the Crown is rendered
altogether unnecessary, and totally excluded, by a direction
in one of the Articles, that the acts of the Grand Council
shall be immediately transmitted for the approbation or dis-
sent of the Parliament of Great Britain, before they are
valid. And thus these acts would only remain subject to
the negative of the Parliament, while the Grand Council
would also enjoy the like negative on all the acts of the
British Legislature which concern their general interest
and welfare, either "civil, criminal, or commercial."

4. The Legislature of the first plan, and all its constitu-
ents, were to remain subordinate to the authority of Par-
liament, although America is not there represented, there
being nothing either in the expressions, matter, or implica-
tions of the plan to exclude it, but, on the contrary, an ex-
press acknowledgment of that authority. But in the second,
this subordination, now so much complained of, and the
great object of the dispute which is likely to involve Ame-
rica in ruin, is taken away, and a remedy proposed by an
union of the British and American members of the State,
upon constitutional principles, by which the latter is placed
on a par of power, and will enjoy the same solid security
for their rights and freedom with the former ; as under this
plan no money can be taken from them, no taxes laid, none
of their manufactures restrained, or their commerce pro-
hibited or burthened, without their consent.

5. Thus we find that the first plan proposes no more than
an union of the Colonies by a Grand Assembly of their
Representatives, subject to a negative on their acts in the
Crown, and afterwards to the repeal and control of the
Parliamentary authority, which leaves the rights of Ame-
rica unrestored, the authority of Parliament oyer us arbi-
trary, and the essentia] grievances of America unredressed ;
while the latter proposes a political union of the Colonies
with Great Britain, in which the rights of the Colonies
are restored on the most solid principles of liberty ; the
Parliamentary authority over them modified and rendered
safe and constitutional ; the cause and reason of our com-
plaints removed ; and a solid foundation laid for a perma-
nent union and harmony between the two Countries.

I could descend to many other particulars in which these
plans materially differ ; but this must be unnecessary, as it
cannot be thought strange that they should be substantially
variant from each other, when impartial men will give them-
selves time to reflect on the different circumstances and
motives which gave rise to them. At the time when the
first was proposed, the supremacy of Parliament over the
Colonies was not questioned by any American. The de-
sign of the Congress was to propose some mode to His Ma-
jesty, by which the Colonies might be enabled to ascertain
the just proportion of aids that each ought to contribute
towards their general safety, which was then immediately
endangered by their disunion, and to establish some power
to compel the refractory and unwilling to a performance of
their general political duties among themselves. Here the

399

CORRESPONDENCE. PROCEEDINGS, iic, APRIL, 1775.

100

views of the first Congress rested. But when the last
met, the objects of their deliberations were infinitely more
extensive and important. Nothing less than the rights of
the supreme authority of a great Empire over its members,
and the essential rights of a very respectable part of those
members, were the questions there agitated. The first plan
was calculated to afford a remedy for the mischiefs then
under consideration. The second, to remove the unhappy
cause of the dispute between Great Britain and the Co-
lonies, by restoring America to her right of participating in
the supreme authority, and reducing that authority to a
constitutional exercise of its power over the Colonies. Such
being the obvious difference in the causes from which the
plans originated, it was impossible, if they were in any
ways calculated to answer the different ends in view, that
they should not be greatly different both in their names and
substance.

I shall offer but one argument more in vindication of the
Delegate who proposed the last plan, from the ungenerous
calumny so undeservedly thrown upon him, 'which will fully
demonstrate that he could entertain no design of taking from
Doctor Franklin, or the Congress of 1754, the merit of
the first. He carried with him to the Congress the plan of
1754, with the reasons under every article, which induced
the then Commissioners to adopt them in the Doctor's own
writing. He shewed it to several of the members as the
plan proposed by the Doctor and agreed to by the Com-
missioners. He delivered it to one of the Delegates with-
out the least injunction or reserve. From that Delegate it
passed into the hands of several others, until the gentleman
to whom it was first delivered could not, for some lime, dis-
cover in whose hands to find it. This was done to enable
the members to compare the two plans, to digest the better
the one then proposed, and if any addition could be made
to it, that it might be done when it should be taken into
consideration agreeable to the rule of the Congress. Hav-
ing little vanity in his composition, any applause which
might arise from the merit of the plan never entered into
his imagination. His mind was too earnestly engaged in
endeavouring to lend his assistance towards preserving the
rights of America, and establishing a happy union of the
two Countries. These were his motives, his only motives ;
and he is still of opinion, had the Delegates in Congress
formed a constitutional system of union upon the same, or
nearly alike principles, that great and beneficial effects would
have flowed from it to America. It would have been
acting the wise and prudent part of taking the best ground
of defence first. It would have been asking, what we have
a right to demand, an union with our brethren and fellow-
subjects in Britain, on principles of liberty and govern-
ment. It would have attached to us innumerable friends in
England and all the British Dominions, whom, by a con-
trary conduct, we have lost. It would have united us firmly
and inseparably among ourselves, upon rational and sup-
portable grounds, while the measures adopted have only
tended to divide and weaken the Colonies. And should
the Administration have refused (contrary to what we had
then, and more especially now, reason to expect) so reason-
able and just a proposition as that of granting to the Ameri-
cans the common constitutional rights of British subjects, in
all probability it would have left them supported by very few,
if any, of the people, on whom they must rely for aids, to en-
able them to carry any scheme into execution. C. E.

Philadelphia, April 26, 1775.

Yesterday, at three o'clock in the afternoon, pursuant to
publick notice, there was a meeting of near eight thousand
of the inhabitants of this City, to consider of the measures
to be pursued in the present critical situation of the affairs
of America.

The business was opened with several eloquent and pa-
triotick speeches, and the company unanimously agreed to
associate, for the purpose of defending with arms, their
property, liberty, and lives, against all attempts to deprive
them of them.

PHILADELPHIA ASSOCIATION.

Whereas, it appears from authentick accounts received
from England, that it is the design of the present Ministry
to enforce the late cruel and unjust Acts of Parliament

complained of in the most legal and dutiful manner by the
Congress: And whereas, an additional number of Troops,
with a Fleet, have been ordered for America, to assist the
Troops now in Boston in the execution of the said Acts :
We, the subscribers, agree that we will associate for the
purpose of learning the Military Exercise, and for defend-
ing our property and lives against all attempts to deprive
us of them.

EXTRACT OF A LETTER FROM READING, PENNSYLVANIA,
DATED APRIL 26, 1775.

We have raised in this Town two Companies of Foot,
under proper Officers ; and such is the spirit of the people
of this free County, that in three weeks time there is not
a Township in it that will not have a Company raised and
disciplined, ready to assert at the risk of their lives the
freedom of America.

NEW-YORK COMMITTEE.

Wednesday, April 26, 1775.

The Committee having taken into consideration the com-
motions occasioned by the sanguinary measures pursued by
the British Ministry; and that the powers with which this
Committee is invested, respect only the Association, are
unanimously of opinion that a new Committee be elected
by the Freeholders and Freemen of this City and County,
for the present unhappy exigency of affairs, as well as to
observe the conduct of all persons touching the Association ;
that the said Committee consist of one hundred persons ;
that thirty-three be a quorum, and that they dissolve within
a fortnight next after the end of the next sessions of the
Continental Congress. And that the sense of the Freehold-
ers and Freemen of this City and County upon this sub-
ject may be better procured and ascertained, the Commit-
tee are further unanimously of opinion, that the polls be
taken on Friday morning next, at nine o'clock, at the usual
places of election in each Ward, under the inspection of
the two Vestrymen of each Ward, and two of this Com-
mittee, or any two of the four ; and that at the said elec-
tions the votes of the Freemen and Freeholders be taken
on the following questions, viz : Whether such new Com-
mittee shall be constituted? And if yea, of whom it shall
consist? And this Committee is further unanimously of
opinion, that at the present alarming juncture, it is highly
advisable that a Provincial Congress be immediately sum-
moned ; and that it be recommended to the Freeholders
and Freemen of this City and County, to choose at the
same time that they vote for the new Committee aforesaid,
twenty Deputies to represent them at the said Congress ;
and that a Letter be forthwith prepared and despatched to
all the Counties, requesting them to unite with us in form-
ing a Provincial Congress, and to appoint their Deputies
without delay, to meet at New-York, on Monday, the 22d
of May next. By order of the Committee :

Isaac Low, Chairman.

JOHN COLLINS TO THE COMMANDING OFFICER OF THE
PROVINCIAL ARMY AT CAMBRIDGE.

Newport, April 26, 1775.

It is with pleasure that I communicate to you, by ex-
press, the following important intelligence, by a vessel just
arrived here from New- York.

We are informed that the news of the engagement be-
tween the Regulars and Provincials got to New-York on
Sunday last, between the fore and afternoon service ; that
the' people of the City immediately arose, disarmed the
Soldiers, and possessed themselves of the Forts and Maga-
zines, in which they found about fifteen hundred Arms ;
that they unloaded two Transports bound to Boston, Cap-
tain Montague not daring to give them any assistance ; that
a third Transport had sailed while they were seizing the
two others, and that the people had fitted out a vessel, in
order to take and bring her back ; that they had forbid all
the Pilots from bringing up any of the King's Ships ; that
Captain Montague was not able to procure a Pilot in the
whole City ; and that the inhabitants were preparing to
put themselves in the best posture of defence.

The gentleman who brings this intelligence left Eliza-
bethtoum yesterday morning, and tells us, that on Monday

401

CORRESPONDENCE, PROCEEDINGS, &c, APRIL, 1775.

402

the Committee of that Town and County met, and agreed
to raise one thousand men immediately, to assist in the de-
fence of New- York, against any attack that may be made
upon them. I have the honour to assure you that this in-
telligence may be depended upon, and that I am, Sir, your
most humble servant, John Collins,

Chairman of the Committee of Inspection.

TO THE PROVINCIAL CONGRESS OF MASSACHUSETTS.
In Provincial Convention at Exeter, April 26, 1775.

"Resolved unanimously, That Colonel Nathaniel Folsom,
Col. Josiah Bartlett, and Major Samuel Uobart, Esquires,
be immediately sent as a Committee from this Convention,
to the Provincial Congress of the Province of Massachu-
setts-Bay, to deliver to them the following Letter ; and fur-
ther inform them of the particular situation of this Province,
and report the effect of their mission as soon as may be."

Gentlemen: Before the receipt of your letter of April
23, intelligence of the tragical scene which hath lately been
acted in your Colony by the regular Troops, had pierced
the ears of the inhabitants of this ; upon which, many of our
men, fired with zeal in the common cause, and resentment
at the inhuman cruelty and savage barbarity of the action,
instantly flew to your assistance, and vast numbers more on
their march were stopped, on hearing they were not needed.

The Provincial Committee, upon this alarm, immediate-
ly called a special Convention of Delegates from the near-
est Towns, to consult with the Committee what was then
absolutely necessary to be done upon that pressing occa-
sion ; in consequence of which this Convention met.

Previous to this, our Provincial Committee, upon appli-
cation to them from a Committee of your body, had noti-
fied the respective Towns in this Province to choose and em-
power Delegates to meet at Exeter on the 17th day of May
next, to deliberate upon the important and momentous ob-
jects proposed by your Congress for the consideration and
concurrence of ours; at which time the important matters
recommended, will naturally come under the mature deliber-
ation of our Congress, and, no doubt, they will readily concur
and co-operate with their brethren in New-England in all
such measures as shall be thought most conducive for the
common safety. But this body, though heartily willing to
contribute in every advisable method to your aid, in the
general defence of these Colonies, judge it not expedient now
to determine upon the establishment of an Army of Observa-
tion, as the Towns in this Government are not generally re-
presented. But it is recommended in the mean time to the
Towns in this Colony, to supply the men gone from it with
provisions and other necessaries, if their continuance shall be
thought necessary; and from the spirit of the inhabitants you
may expect their aid, if any emergency should require it.

We most fervently wish you the blessing and direction
of Heaven in all your deliberations ; and may God Al-
mighty, who protected and saved our pious ancestors
amidst ten thousand dangers, preserve New-England from
the horrours and desolations of a civil war.

By order of the Convention :

Mesheck VVeare, President pro tern.

letter from the committee of safety to rhode-
isi.and and connecticut.

April 2G, 1775.

The distressed situation in which we are, and the danger
to which the liberties of all America, and especially the
New-England Colonies, are exposed, will be the best
apology for the importunate application to you for imme-
diate assistance. We pray, as you regard the safety of
your Country, that as large a number of Troops as you can
spare may immediately march forward, well stocked with
provisions and ammunition ; that they come under proper
Officers, enlisted for such a time as may be necessary ; that
as large a train of Artillery as can be procured, may be sent
down to our aid. We rely greatly upon you, as we know
the bravery of your men.

Our men have behaved with the utmost resolution ; but
as many of them came from home without any preparation,
it is impossible to keep them in the field, without allowing
many of them time to return to their families for one or
two days, during which time we may all possibly be cut
off, as we have a powerful and watchful enemy to deal
with. We are far from despairing. We firmly trust, that,
by the blessing of Heaven on us, we shall deliver our
Country. We are determined, at all events, to act our
parts with firmness and intrepidity, knowing that slavery is
far worse than death. We pray that our sister Rhode-
Island would immediately put in for a share of honour, in
saving the liberties of America, as a moment lost may
never be recalled. May God direct you and us at this im-
portant moment, on which the fate of us and posterity de-
pends. We are, &cc.

JOHN HANCOCK TO THE COMMITTEE OF SAFETY.

Worcoster, April 26, 1775.

Gentlemen : Having had the honour to command the
Cadet Company at Boston, and knowing the abilities of
those who composed that Corps, 1 cannot withhold men-
tioning and recommending to the notice of you and the
General Officers, Mr. John Smith and Mr. John Avery,
two excellent good soldiers and gentlemen, who will ad-
vance the reputation of the Province in that department of
command where they may be placed. I therefore most
strongly recommend them, and earnestly pray they may
be noticed. I will be answerable for their conduct. There
are several other gentlemen of that Corps who may be
useful, particularly Mr. Brant and Mr. Cunningham. Do
notice Mr. Smith and Avery; they will be useful.

I set out to-morrow morning. God bless you. Why
don't you send to Mr. Crafts! Pray improve him ; he is a
good man, and one on whom you may depend ; don't miss
him. I am your real friend, John Hancock.

Fourth Series. — Vol. ii. 26

FALMOUTH COMMITTEE TO COMMITTEE OF SAFETY.

Falmouth April 26, 1775.

Gentlemen : At this alarming and dangerous time, we
find our stock of Powder greatly deficient ; therefore have
sent some money by the bearers to purchase where they
can find it ; and if they cannot get any this side of Cam-
bridge, have desired them to wait upon you for advice, pre-
suming that you can direct them where it may be had.

We rely on your conduct, under God, in our righteous
cause, for deliverance from our present calamities, and are,
gentlemen, your most obedient humble servants,

Enoch Freeman, John Bkackett,

Benjamin Mussey, Wm. Owen,

Selectmen of Falmouth.

P. S. The bearers are Captain Joseph McLellan and
Captain Joseph Noyes.

TO colonel PHILIP skeene, (intercepted.)
Extract of a Letter intercepted at Ticonderoga, directed
to Lieutenant Colonel Philip Skeene, of the Sixty-Ninth
Regiment, to the care of Messrs. Cox and Mair, Agents,
London, signed A. Mabane.

Woodfield, in Canada, April 26, 1775.

Dear Colonel : The Fifty-Second Regiment has been
detained in America, on account of the affairs at Boston ;
and God knows how long they may remain there, or what
will be the event of these disputes ; but it is generally
thought by those who have resided any time in America,
and who have observed the progress which the Colonists
have made in their demands and attempts towards inde-
pendence, that the sooner the laws are put in force, so
much the better. Procrastination only encourages the se-
ditious, and weakens Government.

Colonel Jones acts as Brigadier at Boston. General
Gage has sent for our friend Dunbar ; and I would fain
flatter myself that something will at last be done for de-
serving Officers.

The January Packet brought Mr. Carleton's new com-
mission ; it does not differ much from his former one, ex-
cept in the limits of the Province, and a power given to
him without consent of Council to array the Militia, march
them by land, or transport them by sea into any of the
other Colonies, where enemies, pirates, or rebels, may be.

The Canadians, by the late Act of Parliament, are ex-
empted from the Test, &c, and may be admitted into of-
fices ; seven of them are named to the Council, and two
of them, Rouville and Panet, are added to the number of

103

CORRESPONDENCE, PROCEEDINGS, fcc., APRIL, 1775.

401

Judges. The Counsellors are six, Croix it St. Louis
and Mr. RegawnUe, wlio acted as Major to the Corps of
the Canadian Militia, which General Murray sent to the
upper country during the last Indian war. It is said the
officers are to have half pay. This is the favourable mo-
ment for Canada, and I am very glad that the Ministry
have seized it. Whatever narrow-minded men may say,
the Act is consonant to sound policy, humanity, and that
moderation which becomes an enlightened Nation. To
conquer, has been often the lot of the British Nation ; but
to conciliate the affections of the conquered, has been re-
served to the reign of George the Third; and I may ven-
ture to say, that the Canadians will, upon every occasion,
show their fidelity and gratitude.

NEW COMMISSION TO THE GOVF.RNOUR OF QUEBECK.

George the Third, by the Grace of God, of Great
Britain, France, and Ireland, King, Defender of
the Faith, fyc. To our trusty and well-beloved Guy
Carleton, Esquire, Greeting.

Whereas we did by our Letters Patent under our great
seal of Great Britain, bearing date at Westminster the
twelfth day of April, in the eighth year of our reign, consti-
tute and appoint you to be our Captain General and Gov-
ernour-in-Chief in and over our Province of Quebeck in
America, bounded on the Labrador Coast by the River St.
John, and from thence by a line drawn from the head of
that River through the Lake St. John to the south-east of
Lake Nipissin, from whence the said line, crossing the
River St. Lawrence and Lake Champlain in forty-five
degrees of northern latitude, passes along the high lands,
which divide the Rivers that empty themselves into the
said River St. Lawrence, from those which fall into the
Sea, and also along the north Coast of the Bay Des
Chaleurs, and the Coast of the Gulf of St. Lawrence to
Cape Rozieres, and from thence crossing the mouth of the
River St. Lawrence by the west end of the Island of
Anticosti, terminates at the aforesaid River St. John, to-
gether with all the rights, members, and appurtenances
whatsoever thereunto belonging, for and during our will and
pleasure, as by the said recited Letters Patent, relation
being thereunto had, may more fully and at large appear.
And whereas we did also by our Letters Patent under our
great seal of Great Britain, bearing date at Westminster,
the . . day of .... in the . . . year of
our reign, constitute and appoint Molineux Shuldham,
Esq., to be our Governour and Commander-in-Chief in
and over our Island of Newfoundland, and all the Coast
of Labrador, from the entrance of Hudson's Straits to
the River St. John, which discharges itself into the Sea
nearly opposite the west end of the Island of Anticosti,
including that Island, with any other small Islands on the
said Coast of Labrador, and also the Islands of Madelaine
in the Gulf of St. Lawrence, as also of all our Forts and
Garrisons erected and established in our said Islands of
Newfoundland, Anticosti, and Madelaine, or on the Coast
of Labrador within the limits aforesaid, for and during our
will and pleasure, as by the said Letters Patent, relation
being thereunto had, may more fully and at large appear.
Now know you, that we have revoked and determined,
and by these presents revoke and determine, the said reci-
ted Letters Patent granted to you, the said Guy Carleton,
as aforesaid, and every clause, article, and thing therein
contained ; and that we have also revoked and determined,
and do by these presents revoke and determine so much
and such part of the said recited Letters Patent granted to
Molineux Shuldham, Esq., as aforesaid, as relates to the
Coast of Labrador, including the Island of Anticosti, with
any other small Islands on the said Coast of Labrador,
and every clause, article, and thing therein contained, so
far as the same relates to the said Coast of Labrador, and
the Islands herein before recited. And further know you,
that we, reposing especial trust and confidence in the pru-
dence, courage, and loyalty of you, the said Guy Carleton,
of our especial grace, certain knowledge, and mere motion,
have thought fit to constitute and appoint you, the said
Guy Carleton, to be our Captain-General and Governour-
in -Chief in and over our Province of Quebeck in America,
comprehending all our Territories, Islands, and Countries
in North- America, bounded on the south by a line from

the Bay of Chaleurs along the high lands, which divide
the Rivers that empty themselves into the River iSf. Law-
rence from those which fall into the Sea, to a point in
forty-five degrees of northern latitude, on the eastern bank
of the River Connecticut; keeping the same latitude di-
rectly west through the Lake Champlain, until in the same
latitude it meets with the River St. Lawrence, from thence
up the eastern bank of the said River to the Lake Ontario,
thence through the Lake Ontario, and the River, com-
monly called Niagara, and thence along by the eastern
and southeastern bank of Lake Erie, following the said
bank, until the same shall be intersected by the northern
boundary granted by the Charter of the Province of Penn-
sylvania, in case the same shall be so intersected, and from
thence along the said northern and western boundaries of
the said Province, until the said western boundary strikes
the Ohio; hut, in case the said bank of the said Lake
shall not be found to be so intersected, then following the
said bank, until it shall arrive at the point of the said bank
which shall be nearest to the northwestern single of the
said Province of Pennsylvania, and thence by a right line
to the said northwestern angle of the said Province, and
thence along the western boundary of the said Province,
until it strikes the River Ohio, and along the bank of the
said River westward to the banks of Mississippi, and north-
ward along the eastern bank of the said River to the southern
boundary of the Territory granted to the Merchants Ad-
venturers of England trading to Hudson's Bay ; and also
all such Territories, Islands, and Countries, which have,
since the tenth of February, 1763, been made part of the
Government of Newfoundland, as aforesaid, together with
all the rights, members, and appurtenances whatsoever
thereunto belonging.

And we do hereby require and command you to do and
execute all things in due manner, that shall belong to your
said command, and the trust we have reposed in you,
according to the several powers and directions granted or
appointed you by this present Commission, and the instruc-
tions and authorities herewith given unto you, or by such
further powers, instructions, and authorities as shall at any
time hereafter be granted or appointed you under cur sig-
net or sign manual, or by our order in our Privy Council,
and according to such Ordinances as shall hereafter be made
and agreed upon by you, with the advice and consent of
the Council of our said Province under your Government,
in such manner and form as is herein after expressed.

And our will and pleasure is, that you, the said Guy
Carleton, do, after the publication of these our Letters
Patent, in such manner and form as has been accustomed
to be used on like occasions, in the first place take the
oaths appointed to be taken by an Act passed in the first
year of the reign of King George the First, intituled, " An
Act for the further security of His Majesty's person and
Government, and the succession of the Crown in the heirs
of the late Princess Sophia, being Protestants, and for ex-
tinguishing the hopes of the pretended Prince of Wales,
and his open and secret abetters ;" and by an Act passed in
the sixth year of our reign, intituled, " An Act for altering
the Oath of Abjuration, and the Assurance ; and for amend-
ing so much of an Act of the seventh year of her late
Majesty Queen Anne, intituled, An Act for the Improve-
ment of the Union of the two Kingdoms, as, after the time
therein limited, requires the delivery of certain lists and
copies therein mentioned, to persons indicted of High Trea-
son, or Misprision of Treason ;" as also that you make and
subscribe the declaration mentioned in an Act of Parlia-
ment, made in the twenty-fifth year of the reign of King
Charles the Second, intituled, " An Act for preventing
dangers which may happen from Popish recusants ;" and
likewise that you take the oath usually taken by the Go-
vernours in the Plantations, for the due execution of the
office and trust of our Captain-General and Governour in
and over our said Province, and for the due and impartial
administration of justice ; and further that you take the
oath required to be taken by Governours of the Planta-
tions, to do their utmost, that the several laws relating to
Trade and the Plantations he duly observed ; which said
oaths and declaration our Council of our said Province, or
any three of the Members thereof, have hereby full power
and authority, and are required to tender and administer to
you ; all which being duly performed, you shall yourself

405

CORRESPONDENCE, PROCEEDINGS, &c, APRIL, 1775.

406

administer to each of the Members of our said Council,
(except as herein after excepted) the said oaths mentioned
in the said Acts, intituled, " An Act for the further security
of His Majesty's person and Government, and the succes-
sion of the Crown in the heirs of the late Princess Sophia,
being Protestants, and for extinguishing the hopes of the
pretended Prince of Wales, and his open and secret abet-
ters;" and " An Act for altering the Oath of Abjuration,
and the Assurance, and for amending so much of an Act
of the seventh year of her late Majesty Queen Anne, inti-
tuled, An Act for the Improvement of the Union of the
two Kingdoms, as after the time therein limited requires
the delivery of certain lists and copies, therein mentioned,
to persons indicted of High Treason, or Misprision of Trea-
son ;" as also cause them to make and subscribe the afore-
mentioned declaration, and to administer unto them the
usual oath for the due execution of their places and trusts.
And whereas we may find it expedient for our service,
that our Council of our said Province should be in part
composed of such of our Canadian subjects, or their de-
scendants, as remain within the same under the faith of the
Treaty of Paris, and who may profess the religion of the
Church of Rome; it is therefore our will and pleasure, that
in all cases where such persons shall or may be admitted,
either into our said Council or into any other offices, they
shall be exempted from all tests, and from taking any other
oath than that prescribed in and by an Act of Parliament,
passed in the fourteenth year of our reign, intituled, " An
Act for making more effectual provision for the Govern-
ment of the Province of Quebec)* in North America;" and
also the usual oath for the due execution of their places
and trusts respectively.

And we do further give and grant unto you, the said
Guy Carleton, full power and authority from time to time,
and at any time hereafter, by yourself, or by any other to
be authorized by you in that behalf, to administer and give
the oaths mentioned in the said Acts, intituled, " An Act
for the further security of His Majesty's person and Gov-
ernment, and the succession of the Crown in the heirs of
the late Princess Sophia, being Protestants, and for extin-
guishing the hopes of the pretended Prince of Wales, and
his open and secret abetters," and " An Act for altering
the Oath of Abjuration, and the Assurance ; and for amend-
ing so much of an Act of the seventh year of her late
Majesty Queen Anne, intituled, An Act for the Improve-
ment of the Union of the two Kingdoms, as, after the time
therein limited, requires the delivery of certain lists and
copies therein mentioned, to persons indicted of High Trea-
son, or Misprision of Treason," to all and every such person
or persons, as you shall think fit, who shall at any time or
times pass into our said Province, or shall be resident or
abiding there.

And we do hereby authorize and empower you to keep
and use the publick seal of our Province of Quebeck for
sealing all things whatsoever, that shall pass the great seal
of our said Province.

And we do hereby give and grant unto you, the said
Guy Carleton, full power and authority, with the advice
and consent of our said Council, to make Ordinances for the
peace, welfare and good Government of the said Province,
and of the people and inhabitants thereof, and such others,
as shall resort thereunto, and for the benefit of us, our
heirs, and successors; provided always, that nothing herein
contained shall extend, or be construed to extend to the
authorizing and empowering the passing any Ordinance or
Ordinances for laying any Taxes or Duties within the said
Province, such rates and taxes only excepted, as the inha-
bitants of any Town or District within our said Province
may be authorized by any Ordinance passed by you, with
the advice and consent of the said Council, to assess,
levy, and apply within the said Town or District for the
purpose of making roads, erecting and repairing publick
buildings, or for any other purpose respecting the local
convenience and economy of such Town or District ; pro-
vided also, that every Ordinance, so to be made by you, by
and with the advice and consent of the said Council, shall
be, within six months from the passing thereof, transmitted
to us under our seal of our said Province for our approba-
tion or disallowance of the same : as also duplicates thereof
by the next conveyance; and in case any, or all of the
said Ordinances shall at any lime be disallowed and not

approved, and so signified by us, our heirs and successors
by order in their, or our Privy Council unto you, the said
Guy Carleton, or to the Commander-in-Chief of our said
Province for the time being, then such and so many of the
said Ordinances, as shall be so disallowed and not approved,
shall from the promulgation of the said order in Council
within the said Province cease, determine and become
bitterly void and of no effect ; provided also, that no Ordi-
nance touching religion, or by which any punishment may be
inflicted greater than fine or imprisonment for three months,
shall be of any force or effect, until the same shall have
been allowed and confirmed by us, our heirs and successors,
and such allowance or confirmation signified to you, or to the
Commander-in-Chief of our said Province for the time be-
ing, by their or our order in their or our Privy Council.

Provided also, that no Ordinance shall be passed at any
meeting of the Council, where less than a majority of the
whole Council is present, or at any time, except between
the first day of January and the first day of May, unless
upon some urgent occasion ; in which case every member
thereof resident at the Town of Quebeck, or within fifty
miles thereof, shall be personally summoned to attend the
same : and to the end that nothing may be passed or done
by our said Council to the prejudice of us, our heirs, and
successors, we will and ordain, that you, the said Guy
Carleton, shall have and enjoy a negative voice in the
making and passing of all Ordinances, as aforesaid.

And we do by these presents give and grant unto you,
the said Guy Carleton, full power and authority, with the
advice and consent of our said Council, to erect, constitute,
and establish such and so many courts of judicature and
publick justice within our said Province under your gov-
ernment, as you and they shall think fit and necessary for
the hearing and determining all causes, as well criminal
as civil, and for awarding execution thereupon, with all
reasonable and necessary powers, authorities, fees, and pri-
vileges belonging thereunto ; as also to appoint and com-
missionate fit persons in the several parts of your Govern-
ment to administer the oaths mentioned in the aforesaid
Acts, intituled, " An Act for the further security of His
Majesty's person and Government, and the succession of
the Crown in the heirs of the late Princess. Sophia, being
Protestants, and for extinguishing the hopes of the pre-
tended Prince of Wales, and his open and secret abetters ;"
and, " An Act for altering the Oath of Abjuration and the
Assurance ; and for amending so much of an Act of the
seventh year of her late Majesty Queen Anne, intituled, An
Act for the Improvement of the Union of the two King-
doms, as, after the time therein limited, requires the deli-
very of certain lists and copies, therein mentioned, to per-
sons indicted of High Treason, or Misprision of Treason ;"
as also to tender and administer the aforesaid declaration
to such persons belonging to the said Courts, as shall be
obliged to take the same.

And we do hereby grant unto you full power and autho-
rity to constitute and appoint Judges, and in cases requi-
site Commissioners of Oyer and Terminer, Justices of the
Peace, Sheriffs, and other necessary Officers and Ministers
in our said Province for the better administration of jus-
tice, and putting the laws in execution ; and to administer
or cause to be administered unto them such oath or oaths,
as are usually given for the due execution and performance
of offices and places, and for the clearing of truth in judi-
cial causes.

And we do hereby give and grant unto you full power
and authority, where you shall see cause or shall judge any
offender or offenders in criminal matters, or for any fines
or forfeitures due unto us, fit objects of our mercy, to par-
don all such offenders, and remit all such offences, fines,
and forfeitures ; treason and wilful murder only excepted ;
in which cases you shall likewise have power upon extra-
ordinary occasions to grant reprieves to the offenders, until,
and to the intent our Royal pleasure may be known therein.
And we do by these presents give and grant unto you
full power and authority to collate any person or persons
to any Churches, Chapels, or other ecclesiastical benefices
within our said Province, as often as any of them shall
happen to be void.

And we do hereby give and grant unto you, the said
Guy Carleton, by yourself, or by your Captains and Com-
manders by you to' be authorized, full power and authority

107

CORRESPONDENCE, PROCEEDINGS, kc, APRIL, L775.

L08

to levy, arm, muster, command, and employ all persons
whatsoever residing within our said Province ; and, as
occasion shall serve, them to march, embark, or transport
from one place to another, tor the resisting and withstand-
ing of all enemies, pirates, and rebels, both at land and sea ;
and to transport such Forces to any of our Plantations in
America, if necessity shall require, for defence of the same
against the invasion or attempts of any of our enemies;
and such enemies, pirates and rebels, if there shall be oc-
casion, to pursue and prosecute in, or out of, the limits of
our said Province ; and, if it shall so please God, them to
vanquish, apprehend, and take, and, being taken, according
to law to put to death, or keep or preserve alive at your
discretion, and to execute martial law in time of invasion,
war, or other times, when by law it may be executed ; and
to do and execute all and every other thing and things,
which to our Captain-General and Governour-in-Chief
doth or of right ought to belong.

And we do hereby give and grant unto you full power
and authority, by and with the advice and consent of our
said Council, to erect, raise, and build in our said Province
such and so many Forts, Platforms, Castles, Cities, Bor-
oughs, Towns, and Fortifications, as you by the advice
aforesaid shall judge necessary ; and the same or any of
them to fortify and furnish with Ordnance, Ammunition,
and all sorts of Arms fit and necessary for the security and
defence of our said Province ; and, by the advice aforesaid,
the same again, or any of them to demolish or dismantle,
as may be most convenient.

And forasmuch as divers Mutinies and Disorders may
happen by persons shipped and employed at Sea, during
the time of War ; and to the end, that such, as shall be ship-
ped and employed at Sea during the time of War, may be
better governed and ordered, we do hereby give and grant
unto you, the said Guy Carleton, full power and authority
to constitute and appoint Captains, Lieutenants, Masters
of Ships, and other Commanders and Officers; and to
grant to such Captains, Lieutenants, Masters of Ships, and
other Commanders and Officers, Commissions to execute
the Law Martial during the time of War, according to the di-
rections of an Act, passed in the twenty -second year of the
reign of our late Royal Grandfather, intituled, " An Act
for amending, explaining, and reducing into one Act of
Parliament, the Laws relating to the Government of His
Majesty's Ships, Vessels, and Forces by Sea ;" and to use
such proceedings, authorities, punishments, corrections,
and executions upon any offender or offenders, who shall
be mutinous, seditious, disorderly, or any way unruly either
at Sea, or during the time of their abode or residence in any
of the Ports, Harbours, or Bays in our said Province, as the
case shall be found to require, according to Martial Law ;
and the said directions, during the time of War, as aforesaid.
Provided, that nothing herein contained shall be con-
strued to the enabling you, or any by your authority to
hold plea, or have any jurisdiction of any offence, cause,
matter, or thing committed or done upon the High Sea, or
within any of the Havens, Rivers, or Creeks of our said
Province under your Government, by any Captain, Com-
mander, Lieutenant, Master, Officer, Seaman, Soldier, or
Person whatsoever, who shall be in actual service and pay,
in or on board any of our Ships-of-War, or other Vessels
acting by immediate Commission or Warrant from our
Commissioners for executing the office of our High-Admiral
of Great Britain, or from our High-Admiral of Great
Britain for the time being, under the Seal of our Admi-
ralty ; but that such Captain, Commander, Lieutenant,
Master, Officer, Seaman, Soldier, or other Person so of-
fending, shall be left to be proceeded against, and tried, as
their offences shall require, either by Commission under
our Great Seal of this Kingdom, as the Statute of the
twenty-eighth of Henri/ VI 11. directs; or by Commission
from our said Commissioners for executing the office of
High- Admiral of Great Britain, or from our High- Admiral
of Great Britain for the time being, according to the
aforementioned Act, intituled, " An Act for amending, ex-
plaining, and reducing into one Act of Parliament, the
Laws relating to the Government of His Majesty's Ships,
Vessels, and Forces by Sea;" and not otherwise.

Provided, nevertheless, that all disorders and misde-
meanors committed on shore by any Captain, Commander,
Lieutenant, Master, Officer, Seaman, Soldier, or other

Person whatsoever belonging to any of our Ships-of-War.
or other Vessels acting by immediate Commission or AN ar-
rant from our Commissioners for executing the office of
High-Admiral of Great Britain, or from our High-Ad-
miral of Great Britain for the time being, under the seal
of our Admiralty, may be tried and punished according to
the Laws of the place, where any such disorders, offences,
and misdemeanors shall be committed on shore ; notwith-
standing such offender be in our actual service, and borne
in our pay on board any such our Ships-of-War, or other
Vessels acting by immediate Commission, or Warrant from
our Commissioners for executing the office of High- Ad-
miral of Great Britain, or from our High-Admiral of
Great Britain for the time being, as aforesaid, so as he
shall not receive any protection for the avoiding of justice
for such offences committed on shore from any pretence of
his being employed in our service at Sea.

And our further will and pleasure is that all Publick
Moneys granted and raised for the publick uses of our said
Province, be issued out by Warrant from you, by and with
the advice and consent of our Council, as aforesaid, for the
support of the Government, and not otherwise.

And we likewise give and grant unto you full power and
authority, by and with the advice and consent of our said
Council, to settle and agree with the inhabitants of our said
Province for such Lands, Tenements, and Hereditaments,
as now are, or hereafter shall be in our power to dispose
of, and them to grant to any person or persons upon such
terms and under such moderate quit-rents, services, and
acknowledgments to be thereupon reserved unto us, as
you, with the advice aforesaid, shall think fit ; which said
Grants are to pass, and be sealed by our publick seal of our
said Province, and being entered upon record by such Offi-
cer or Officers as shall be appointed thereunto, shall be good
and effectual in Law against us, our heirs and successors.

And we do hereby give you, the said Guy Carleton, full
power and authority to order and appoint Fairs, Marts, and
Markets ; as also such and so many Ports, Harbours, Bays,
Havens, and other places for the conveniency and security
of shipping, and for the better loading and unloading of
Goods and Merchandises, in such and so many places, as
by you, with the advice and consent of our said Council,
shall be thought fit and necessary.

And we do hereby require and command all Officers
and Ministers, Civil and Military, and all other inhabitants
of our said Province to be obedient, aiding, and assisting
unto you, the said Guy Carleton, in the execution of this
our Commission, and of the powers and authorities therein
contained ; and in case of your death or absence from our
said Province and Government, to be obedient, aiding, and
assisting as aforesaid, to the Lieutenant Governour or Com-
mander-in-Chief for the time being, to whom we do there-
fore by these presents give and grant all and singular the
powers and authorities herein granted to be by him exe-
cuted and enjoyed, during our pleasure, or until your arri-
val within our said Province.

And if upon your death or absence out of our said
Province, there be no person upon the place commission-
ated or appoioted by us to be Lieutenant Governour or
Commander-in-Chief of our said Province ; our will and
pleasure is, that the eldest Councillor, being a natural born
subject of Great Britain, Ireland, or the Plantations, and
professing the Protestant Religion, who shall be at the time
of your death or absence residing within our said Prov-
ince, shall take upon him the administration of the Govern-
ment, and execute our said Commission and Instructions,
and the several powers and authorities therein contained,
in the same manner and to all intents and purposes, as other
our Governour or Commander-in-Chief should or ought to
do, in case of your absence, until your return, and in all
cases until our further pleasure be known therein.

And we do hereby declare, ordain, and appoint, that
you, the said Guy Carleton, shall and may hold, execute,
and enjoy the Office and place of our Captain-General
and Governour-in-Chief, in and over our said Province of
Quebeck, and all the Territories dependant thereon ; with
all and singular the powers and authorities hereby granted
unto you, for and during our will and pleasure.

In witness whereof we have caused these our Letters to
be made Patent. NVitness ourself at Westminster, the . . .
day of in the year of our reign.

409

CONNECTICUT ASSEMBLY, APRIL, 1773.

ill)

CONNECTICUT ASSEMBLY.

At a General Assembly of the Govemour and Com-
pany of the English Colony of Connecticut in New-Eng-
land, in America, holden at Hartford by Special Order of
the Gdvemour of said Colony, on Wednesday the twenty-
sixth day of April, Annoque Domini 1775: Present:

The Honourable Jonathan Trumbull, Esq., Governour;
the Honourable Matthew Griswold, Esq., Deputy Govern-
our; Jabez Hamlin, Elisha Sheldon, Eliphalet Dyer,
Jabez Huntington, William Pitkin, Roger Sherman,
Abraham Davenport, William Samuel Johnson, Oliver
Wolcott, James Abraham Hilhouse, Esquires, Assistants.

Representatives or Deputies of the Freemen of the
several Towns are as follows, viz :

Hartford. — Colonel John Pitkin, Colonel Thomas

Seymour.
Windsor. — Captain Josiah Bissell, Mr. Oliver Ellsworth.
Symsbury. — Colonel Jonathan Pettibone, Colonel Jona-
than Humphrey.
East Windsor. — Mr. William Wolcott, Mr. Erastus

Wolcott.
Glastenbury. — Captain Jonathan Wells, Mr. -Ebenezer

Plumer.
Suffield. — Mr. Alex. King, Captain Abraham Granger.
Weathersfield. — Major Thomas Belding, Mr. Silas
Dean.

Middletown. — Mr. Matthew Talcott, Mr. Titus Hosmer.

Willington. — Mr. Moses Holmes, Mr. Elijah Fenton.

Tolland. — Mr. Samuel Cobb, Mr. Eleazer Steel.

Haddam. — Captain Joseph Brooks.

Bolton. — Captain Joel White, Captain Benj. Talcott.

Somers. — Mr. Zera Kibbee, Mr. Reuben Sikes.

Chatham. — Mr. David Sage, Captain Silas Dunham.

East Haddam. — Mr. Daniel Brainard, Mr. Jabez Chap-
man.

Colchester. — Mr. Henry Champion, Mr. John Watrous.

Stafford. — Mr. Josiah Converse, Mr. Joseph Fuller.

Enfield. — Mr. Edward Collins, Major Nath. Terry.

Hebron. — Captain Daniel Ingham, Captain Obadiah
Hosford.

Farmington. — Colonel John Strong, Colonel Fisher
Gay.

New-Haven. — Mr. Sam. Bishop, Mr. Joshua Chandler.

Durham. — Col. Elihu Chauncey, Colonel James Wads-
worth.

Derey. — Captain John Wooster, Mr. James Beard.

Branford. — Mr. Edward Russell, Mr. Daniel Page.

Guilford. — Mr. John Burgess, Col. Andrew Ward.

Wallingford. — Mr. Oliver Stanley, Major Reuben At-
water.

Waterbury. — Mr. Joseph Hopkins, Colonel Jonathan
Baldwin.

Milford. — Major David Baldwin.

New-London. — Mr. Richard Law, Mr. William Hil-
house.

Norwich. — Mr. Benjamin Huntington.

Stonington. — Major Charles Phelps, Major Samuel
Prentice.

Saybrook. — Doctor Samuel Field, Colonel William Wor-
thington.

Preston. — Mr. Robert Crary, Captain James Morgan.

Lyme.— Mr. John Lay, Mr. Ebenezer Selden.

Killingworth. — Mr. Hezckiah Lane.

Groton. — Mr. Thomas Mumford, Mr. Stephen Billings.

Fairfield. — Mr. Jonathan Sturgess, Captain Samuel
Squier.

Stratford. — Captain Robert Fairchild, Captain Dan-
iel Judson.

Reading. — Mr William Hawley.

Greenwich. — Major John Mead, Mr. Peter Mead.

Stamford. — Colonel David Waterbury, Colonel Charles
Webb.

Ridgefield. — Colonel Philip B. Bradley.

Norwalk. — Mr. Tho. Belding, Doctor Thaddeus Betts.

Newtown. — Captain Henry Glover, Captain Peter Ni-
chols.

New-Fairfield. — Mr. Zaccheus Towner, Mr. Alexan-
der Fairchild.

Danbury. — Col. Joseph P. Cook, Captain Daniel Taylor.

Windham.— Colonel Jedediah Eldcrkin, Mr. Nathaniel

Wales.

Lebanon.— Colonel William Williams, .Mr. Jonathan
Trumbull.

Canterbury.— Mr. Solomon Pain, Mr. Eliashib Adams.

Pomfret.— Mr. Thomas Williams, Mr. Elisha Lord.

Woodstock.— Mr. Caleb May, Captain Timothy Perrin.

Coventry. — Captain Ebenezer Kingsbury, Mr. Jere-
miah Ripley.

Mansfield. — Mr. Constant Soulhworth, Colonel FJn-
nezer Storrs.

Plainfield. — Capt. Isaac Coit, Capt. John Douglass.

Voluntown. — Major James Gordon, Mr. Robert "Hunter.

Killingly. — Mr. Benjamin Leavings.

Ashford. — Captain Benj. Sumner, Mr. Elijah Whitton.

Litchfield. — Mr. Jedediah Strong, Captain David
Welch.

New-Hartford.— Capt. Matthew Gillett, Captain Seth

Smith.
Sharon. — Major Ebenezer Gay, Mr. James Pardee.
Salisbury.— Col. Joseph Porter, Mr. Heztkiah Fitch.
Kent.— Mr. Ephraim Hubbell, Mr. Justus Sackett.
Woodbury.— Mr. Daniel Sherman, Captain Increase

Moseley.
Goshen. — Colonel Ebenezer Norton, Captain Edmund

Beach.
Harwington. — Capt. John Willson, Mr. Josiah Phelps.
New-Milford. — Major Samuel Canfield, Mr. Sherman

Boardman.
Torrington. — Major Epaphras Sheldon, Mr. Ninth

Marshall.
Cornwall. — Mr. Heman Swift, Captain Thomas Porter.
Canaan. — Mr. John Watson, Colonel Charles Burrall.
Westmoreland. — Mr Joseph Sluman.

William Williams, Esq., Speaker of the House of Rep-
resentatives ; Richard Law, Clerk.

Whereas it was enacted by the General Assemblv held
at New-Haven, on the second Thursday of October last,
that every Regiment in this Colony, as well the Horse as
Foot belonging thereto, shall meet either together or in
parts, at the discretion of the Colonel or Commanding Offi-
cer, at such time and place as such Colonel or Field Offi-
cer shall appoint for Regimental Exercise, one day before
the tenth day of May next ; and whereas the meeting of
such Regiments agreeably to said Act will be inconveni-
ent in the present situation of affairs,

Resolved by this Assembly, The Colonels or Command-
ing Officers of the several Regiments in this Colony
shall be, and they are hereby released from the obligation
to call out their said Regiments for Regimental Exercises
before the tenth day of May next, any thing in said Act to
the contrary notwithstanding.

Resolved by this Assembly, That an Embargo be forth-
with laid upon the Exportation out of this Colony by water
of the following articles of Provision, viz : Wheat, Rye,
Indian-Corn, Pork, Beef, live Cattle and Beans, Bread,
Flour, and every kind of Meal, except necessary Stores
for Vessels bound to Sea ; and that his Honour the Govern-
our be, and he is hereby desired to issue a Proclamation,
laying such Embargo and Prohibition of such Provisions
accordingly ; such Embargo to continue till the 20th day of
May next.

Resolved by this Assembly, That William Samuel
Johnson and Erastus Walcott, Esquires, wait upon his
Excellency Governour Gage, with the Letters written to
him by his Honour our Governour by the desire of this
Assembly, and confer with him on the subject contained
in said Letters, and request his answer.

Resolved by this Assembly, That Thaddeus Burr,
Esq., of Fairfield, and Charles Church Chandler, Esq.,
of Woodstock, at the publick expense of this Colony, be
a Committee to engage and employ News-Carriers to per-
form regular stages from Fairfield to Woodstock, and from
Woodstock to Fairfield, in such manner that they severally
arrive in Hartford every Saturday, and that they forward
all proper intelligence to Fairfield and Woodstock with all
convenient speed ; also that Gurdon Saltonstall, Esq., of
New-London, be a Committee to engage and employ two
News-Carriers, at the Colony's expense, to perform regular

Ill

CONNECTICUT ASSEMBLY, APRIL, 1775.

412

stages from Woodstock to New-Haven on the Fairfield
stage, and from New-Haven to Woodstock in such man-
ner that they severally arrive in New-London every Sa-
turday, and that they forward all proper intelligence each
way every Monday morning with all convenient despatch ;
also that Thaddeui liurr, Esq., of Fairfield, and Charles
Church Chandler, Esq., of Woodstock, and Gurdon Sul-
tonstall, Esq., o( New-London, be a Committee to forward
at the publick expense of this Colony, all such extraordi-
nary and important intelligence which shall be received at
either place from time to time as they shall judge proper
and necessary, the aforesaid regulations to continue in force
until the rising of the Assembly in May next, and no
longer.

Whereas it is represented to this Assembly, that sundry
acts of hostility and violence have lately been committed
in the Province of the Massachusetts Bay, by which many
lives have been lost, and that some of the inhabitants of
this Colony are gone to the relief of the people distressed,
it is thereupon,

Resolved by this Assembly, That Captain Joseph Trum-
bull and Mr. Amasa Keys be, and they are hereby ap-
pointed a Committee to procure all necessary Provisions
tor the inhabitants of this Colony who have gone to the
relief of the people aforesaid, and that they superintend
the delivery out, and apportioning the same among them
till this Assembly shall consider what measures are proper
to be taken relative thereto, and give orders accordingly.

An Act for Assembling, Equipping, fyc, a number of the

Inhabitants of this Colony for the special defence and

safety thereof.

Be it enacted by the Governour, Council, and Repre-
sentatives in General Court assembled, and by the authori-
ty of the same, That one-fourth part of the Militia of this
Colony be, and it is hereby ordered and directed that they
be forthwith enlisted, equipped, accoutred, and assembled
for the special defence and safety of this Colony, to be led
and conducted as the General Assembly shall order. That
the inhabitants enlisted and assembled shall be distributed
into Companies, consisting of one hundred men each. That
said Companies shall be formed into six Regiments, to be
commanded by one Major General, assisted by two Briga-
dier Generals, each of which General Officers shall take
the command of a Regiment as Colonel. That each of
said Regiments shall be commanded by one Colonel, a
Lieutenant Colonel, and a Major, each of which Field
Officers shall likewise command a Company as Captain,
and each General Officer shall be assisted by two Majors
to his Regiment. That each of said Companies shall be
commanded by one Captain, two Lieutenants, and an En-
sign, who shall all be duly commissioned by his Honour
the Governour to execute the office to which they are res-
pectively appointed. That there shall be appointed one
Adjutant, one Quartermaster, one Chaplain, one Surgeon,
and two Surgeon's Mates to each Regiment. That said
inhabitants shall be enlisted, to continue in the said service
during the pleasure of the General Assembly, not exceed-
ing seven months.

And be it further enacted by the authority aforesaid,
That a premium of Fifty-Two Shillings per man shall be
advanced and paid to each non-commissioned Officer and
inhabitant upon their enlistment, they supplying themselves
with a blanket, knapsack, clothing, &c, to the acceptance
of their respective Captains, and that one month's pay
shall be advanced and paid to each of said Officers and
enlisted inhabitants. And it is further enacted by the au-
thority aforesaid, that the establishment of pay and wages
shall be as follows, viz : the pay for their whole services :

Per Calendar Month.

To the Major General, - - - £20 00s.

To each Brigadier General, - - 17 00

To each Colonel, - - - - 1.5 00

To each Lieutenant Colonel, - - 12 00

To each Major, - - - - - 10 00

To each Captain, - - - - 6 00

To each Lieutenant, .... 4 00

To each Ensign, .... 3 00

To each Adjutant, - - - - 5 10

To each Quartermaster,
To each Chaplain,
To each Surgeon,
To each Surgeon's Mate,
The wages of each Sergeant,
The wages of each Corporal,
The wages of each Fifer and
The wages of each Private, -

I)i

£3 00s

6

00

7

10

4

00

2

08

2

04

2

04

2

00

And be it further enacted by the authority aforesaid,
That each inhabitant so enlisted shall be furnished with
good fire-arms ; and that the fire-arms belonging to this
Colony, wherever they are, shall be collected and put into
the hands of such enlisted inhabitants as have not arms of
their own; and that each enlisted inhabitant that shall pro-
vide arms for himself, well fixed with a good bayonet and
cartouch box, shall be paid a premium of Ten Shillings ;
and in case such arms are lost by inevitable casualty, such
inhabitant, providing himself as aforesaid, shall be allowed
and paid the just value of such arms and implements so
lost, deducting only said sum of Ten Shillings allowed as
aforesaid, said premium of Ten Shillings to be paid as soon
as such inhabitant shall provide such arms as aforesaid.
That when the aforesaid provision fails, sufficient arms shall
be impressed completely to arm and equip said inhabitants,
the said impress to be limited only to the arms belonging
to householders, and other persons not on the Militia Roll ;
and in case any householder or other person shall volunta-
rily furnish any enlisted inhabitant, not able to procure
arms for himself, with a good gun, well fixed with a good
bayonet and cartouch box, shall have and receive a premi-
um of Ten Shillings, and in case of loss shall receive the
value thereof, deducting the Ten Shillings as aforesaid.
And also that every person from whom any gun shall be
impressed as aforesaid, shall be paid for the use of such
gun the sum of Four Shillings, and in case of loss shall be
paid the just value of such gun, deducting the sum of Four
Shillings aforesaid ; and that a particular account be taken
of the arms that may be used, and the same be all ap-
praised by indifferent judges ; and that if any enlisted in-
habitant, through negligence, shall lose or damage the arms
found for him as aforesaid, such loss or damage shall be
deducted out of his wages. And it is also further en-
acted by the authority aforesaid, that three thousand stand
of arms be procured as soon as may be, and held in readi-
ness to be used for the special defence and safety of this
Colony. And also that the number of five hundred Spades,
five hundred Pickaxes, three hundred narrow Axes, and
five hundred Tents be procured for the use of this Colony.

Whereas the General Assembly of this Colony have or-
dered and enacted that one-fourth part of the Militia of said
Colony shall be forthwith enlisted, equipped, and assem-
bled for the special defence and safety of said Colony, &,c. :
For the encouragement of such able bodied and effectual
men of said Militia or others as shall voluntarily offer and
enlist themselves for said service to the acceptance of the
proper Officers, it is resolved by this Assembly, that each
enlisted inhabitant or person as aforesaid, shall be entitled
to a premium of Fifty-Two Shillings upon their enlistment,
they supplying themselves with a blanket, knapsack, cloth-
ing, 81c, to the acceptance of their respective Captains,
and also to one month's advanced pay ; Sergeants shall re-
ceive Forty-Eight Shillings each ; Corporals Forty-Four
Shillings each ; Drummers and Fifers Forty-Four Shillings
each ; and each Private Forty Shillings per calendar month
during their continuance in said service. That each en-
listed inhabitant or person as aforesaid, who shall provide
arms for himself, well fixed with a good bayonet and car-
touch box, shall be paid a premium of Ten Shillings; and
in case such arms are lost by any inevitable providence,
such inhabitant so providing himself shall be allowed and
paid the just value of such arms and implements so lost,
deducting only the sum of Ten Shillings allowed as afore-
said, said premium of Ten Shillings to be paid as soon as
such inhabitant shall be so provided as aforesaid. That a
particular account shall be taken of all the arms that may
be used, and the same shall be all appraised by indifferent
judges. That each inhabitant as aforesaid, upon his enlist-
ment, shall be entitled to Six Pence per diem billet-
ing money, until they are otherwise provided for by the
Colony.

413

CONNECTICUT ASSEMBLY, APRIL, 1775.

Ill

Resolved by this Assembly, That the non-commissioned
and other inhabitants now to be enlisted for the special de-
fence and safety of this Colony, shall be allowed Six Pence
a day, for billeting, from the time of their enlistment until
supplied from the Colony stores.

Resolved, That the three thousand stand of Arms to be
procured for the use of this Colony be of the following di-
mensions, to wit: the length of the barrel three feet ten
inches, the diameter of the bore from inside to inside three-
quarters oi an inch, the length of the blade of the bayonet
fourteen inches, the length of the socket four inches and
one-quarter ; that the barrel be of a suitable thickness,
with iron ramrod, and a spring in the lowest loop to secure
the ramrod ; a good substantial lock, and a good stock well
mounted with brass, marked with the name (initial letters)
of the maker's name. And

Resolved, That all the Arms that shall be made and
completed according to the above regulations in this Colony
by the first day of July next, shall be purchased and taken
up by this Colony at a reasonable price.

Resolved by this Assembly, That the form for Commis-
sions for the Major General and Brigadier Generals in the
service of this Colony shall be as follows, and the Gov-
ernour and Secretary are desired and directed to sign the
same :

" Colony of Connecticut :

" . Esquire, Captain General and

Governour-in- Chief in and over the English Colony
of Connecticut in New-England, in America,

" To Esquire, greeting :

" By virtue of the power and authority to me given by
the Royal Charter to the Governour and Company of the
said Colony, under the great seal of England, I do, by
these presents, reposing especial trust and confidence in
your loyalty, courage, and good conduct, constitute and
appoint you, the said ...... to be ...

General and Commander of the Inhabitants enlisted and
assembled for the special defence and safety of His Majes-
ty's said Colony. You are, therefore, carefully and dili-
gently to discharge the duty of General and
Commander, in leading, conducting, ordering, and exer-
cising in the service aforesaid the said Inhabitants, both
Officers and Soldiers, and to keep them in good order and
discipline, hereby commanding them to obey you as their
. General ; and you are to observe and follow
such orders and instructions as you shall from time to time
receive from me or the Commander-in-Chief of the said
Colony for the time being, according to military rules and
discipline, pursuant to the trust reposed in you.

" Given under rny hand and the publick seal of said
Colony of Connecticut, the . . day of in the

fifteenth year of the reign of His Majesty George the
Third, of Great Britain, France, and Ireland, King, De-
fender of the Faith, &cc, Anno Domini 1775.

"By his Honour's command."

Resolved by this Assembly, That the form for Commis-
sions for the Captains and Subaltern Officers of a Company
for the special defence and safety of this Colony shall be
as follows, and the Governoui and Secretary are desired and
directed to sign the same :

" Colony of Connecticut:

" Esquire, Captain General and

Governour-in- Chief in and over His Majesty's Colony
of Connecticut in New-England, in America,

'• To greeting :

" By virtue of the power and authority to me given, in
and by the Royal Charter to the Governour and Company
of the said Colony, under the great seal of England, I do,
by these presents, reposing special trust and confidence in
your loyalty, courage, and good conduct, constitute and

appoint you, the said , to be . . .

of the . . . Company in the . . . Regiment of
the Inhabitants enlisted and assembled for the special de-
fence and safely of His Majesty's said Colony. You are,
therefore, carefully and diligently to discharge the duty of
a ... in leading, ordering, and exercising said Com-
pany, both inferiour Officers and Soldiers, in the service

aforesaid, and to keep them in good order and discipline,
hereby commanding them to obey you as their . . . ;
and you are to observe and follow such orders and instruc-
tions as you shall from lime to time receive from me or the
Commander-in-Chief of the said Colony for the time being,
or other your superiour Officers, according to military rules
and discipline, pursuant to the trust reposed in you.

" Given under my hand and the publick seal of said
Colony, at . . . the . . day of . . . in the
fifteenth year of the reign of His Majesty King George
the Third, Anno Domini 1775.

"By his Honour's command."

Resolved by this Assembly, That his Honour the Gov-
ernour be, and he is hereby desired, authorized, and em-
powered to sign and deliver Beating Orders to the respective
Officers appointed to enlist men for the special defence and
safety of the Colony in the form following, viz :

" Jonathan Trumbull, Esquire, Governour of the Colony
of Connecticut, to greeting :

" I do hereby authorize and empower you, by beat of
drum or otherwise, to raise by enlistment a Company of able-
bodied effective Volunteers within this Colony, to consist
of one hundred men, including Officers, for the defence of
this Colony, during the pleasure of the Assembly, not ex-
ceeding seven months; and the Colonels of the respective
Regiments of Militia, and the several Officers thereof, are
requested to afford you all proper aid and assistance; and
the Captains in the several Regiments are hereby request-
ed to muster their respective Companies when requested
thereunto by you, for the purpose aforesaid.

" Given under my hand this first day of May, 1775."

"I, of do acknowledge

to have voluntarily enlisted myself a Soldier, to serve in a
Regiment of Foot, raised by the Colony of Connecticut,
for the defence of the same, to be commanded by . . .
during the pleasure of the General Assembly, and as they
shall direct, not exceeding seven months. As witness my
hand, the . . day of . . . , in the year of our
Lord 1775."

In the Lower House the foregoing form of Enlistment
being read, &,c, is approved.

Test: Richard Law, Clerk.

Concurred in in the Upper House.

Test : George Wyllys, Secretary.

This Assembly do appoint the persons hereafter named
to the respective offices, to take the command of the in-
habitants to be enlisted and assembled for the special de-
fence and safety of this Colony, to lead and conduct them
as the General Assembly shall order ; and his Honour the
Governour is desired, and he is hereby authorized and
empowered, to give Commissions according to the form
provided and ordered for each respective Officer, according
to his office and rank, and Warrants lo such as are ap-
pointed in the Staff, viz :

This Assembly do appoint David Wooster, Esquire, to be
Major General.

Joseph Spencer, Esquire, to be Brigadier General.

Israel Putnam, Esquire, to be Second Brigadier General.

First Company in the First Regiment. — Major General
David Wooster, Esquire, to be Colonel of the First
Regiment, and Captain ; Jesse Leavenworth, to be First
Lieutenant ; James Blakely, to be Second Lieutenant ;
Amos Shepard, to be Ensign.

Second Company in the First Regiment. — Andrew Ward,
Junior, Esquire, Lieutenant-Colonel of the First Regi-
ment, and Captain ; Stephen Hall to be First Lieutenant ;
Jehiel Meigs to be Second Lieutenant ; Augustus Col-
lins to be Ensign.

Third Company in the First Regiment. — Jabez Thompson
to be First Major in the First Regiment, and Captain :
Bradford Stall to be First Lieutenant ; Ambrose Hind
to be Second Lieutenant ; Nathan Pierson to be En-
sign.

Fourth Company in the First Regiment. — David Welch
to be Second Major of the First Regiment, and Captain :
Bazaleel Beebe to be First Lieutenant ; Aaron Foot to
be Second Lieutenant ; Thomas Catlin to be Ensign.

415

CONNECTICUT ASSEMBLY, APRIL, 1775.

1 1 6

Fifth Company in t lie First Regiment. — Benedict Arnold
Captain; Caleb Trow/iridge to be First Lieutenant;
Jesse Curtiss to be Second Lieutenant ; Nathan Ed-
wards to be Ensiun.

Sixth Company in the First Regiment. — William Dong-
lass to be Captain ; Samuel Blackmail, Junior, to be
First Lieutenant; .land Robertson to be Second Lieu-
tenant ; Ebenezer Trutdelt to be Ensign.

Seventh Company in the First Regiment. — Isaac Cook,
Junior, to be Captain ; John Hough to be First Lieu-
tenant ; Thomas Shepard to be Second Lieutenant ;
James Peck to be Ensign.

Eighth Company in the First Regiment. — Phineas Porter
to be Captain ; Stephen Mathews to be First Lieutenant ;
Isaac Bronson to be Second Lieutenant ; David Smith
to be Ensign.

Ninth Company in the First Regiment. — James Arnold
to be Captain ; Samuel Wilmott to be First Lieutenant;
Nathaniel Bunnel to be Second Lieutenant; Philemon
Potter to be Ensign.

Tenth Company in the First Regiment. — Samuel Peck,
Junior, to be Captain ; John Fowler, Junior, to be First
Lieutenant ; Israel Tcrrel to be Second Lieutenant ;
Samuel Doolitlle to be Ensign.

The Reverend Benjamin Trumbull, Chaplain of the First
Regiment.

Jared Potter, Surgeon; Levi Ives, Isaac Chester, Sur-
geon's Mates, First Regiment.

Second Regiment.

First Company, Second Regiment. — Joseph Spencer, Esq.,
to be Colonel of the Second Regiment, and Captain ;
Daniel Cone, First Lieutenant ; James Smith, Second
Lieutenant ; Joel Arnold, Ensign.

Second Company, Second Regiment. — Samuel Wyllys,
Esquire, to be Lieutenant-Colonel, and Captain ; Eze-
kiel Scott, First Lieutenant ; Samuel Cowper, Second
Lieutenant ; Marcus Cole, Ensign.

Third Company, Second Regiment. — Roger Enos, Esq.,
to be First Major, and Captain ; Elijah Rolinson, First
Lieutenant ; Silas Blogget, Second Lieutenant ; Benja-
min Frisbee, Ensign.

Fourth Company, Second Regiment. — Return Jonathan
Meigs, Esquire, to be Second Major, and Captain ; Eli-
jah Blackman, First Lieutenant ; Ebenezer Sumner,
Second Lieutenant ; Joseph Savage, Ensign.

Fifth Company, Second Regiment. — Solomon Willis,Cap-
tain ; Jonathan Parker, First Lieutenant ; Samuel Fell,
Jr., Second Lieutenant ; Noah Chapin, Jr., Ensign.

Sixth Company, Second Regiment. — Noadiah Hooker,
Captain ; Peter Curtiss, First Lieutenant ; Joseph Boy-
ington, Second Lieutenant ; Amos Wadsworth, Ensign.

Seventh Company, Second Regiment. — Abel Pettibone,
Captain ; Amasa Mills, First Lieutenant ; Joseph For-
ward, Second Lieutenant ; Jonathan Pettibone, Junior,
Ensign.

Eighth Company, Second Regiment. — Levi Wells, Cap-
tain ; James Ransom, First Lieutenant ; John Isham,
Second Lieutenant; Samuel Palmer, Ensign.

Ninth Company, Second Regiment. — John Chester, Cap-
tain ; Barnabas Dean, First Lieutenant ; Stephen Good-
rich, Second Lieutenant ; Charles Butler, Ensign.

Tenth Company, Second Regiment. — John Harman, Jun.,
Captain ; Samuel Wright, First Lieutenant ; Consider
Williston, Second Lieutenant; Oliver Hanchel, Ensign.

Reverend Benjamin Boardman, Chaplain of the Second
Regiment.

William Jepson, Surgeon ; Daniel Southmayd, Richard
Watrous, Surgeon's Mates, Second Regiment.

Third Regiment.

First Company, Third Regiment. — Israel Putnam, Esq.,
to be Colonel of the Third Regiment, and Captain ;
Jonathan Kingsley, First Lieutenant ; Thomas Grosve-
nor, Second Lieutenant ; Elijah Loomis, Ensign.

Second Company, Third Regiment, — Experience Storrs,
Esquire, to be Lieutenant-Colonel, and Captain ; James
Dana, First Lieutenant; Ebenezcr Gray, Second Lieu-
tenant ; Isaac Fareivcll, Ensign.

Third Company, Third Regiment. — John Durkey to be
First Major, and Captain; Joshua Huntington, First

Lieutenant ; Jacobus De Witt, Second Lieutenant :
Samuel Bingham, Ensign.

Fourth Company, Third Regiment. — Obadiah Johnson,
Esquire, to be Second Major, and Captain ; Ephraim
Lyon, First Lieutenant; Jt ells ClijJ', Second Lieuten-
ant ; Isaac Hide, Junior, Ensign.

Fifth Company, Third Regiment.' — Thomas Knoivlton,
Captain ; Reuben Marcey, First Lieutenant ; John Keys,
Second Lieutenant ; Daniel Allen, Junior, Ensign.

Sixth Company, Third Regiment. — James Clark, Captain ;
Danid Tildcn, First Lieutenant; Andrew Fitch, Second
Lieutenant ; Thomas Bell, Ensign.

Seventh Company, Third Regiment. — Ephraim Maiming,
Captain ; Stephen Lyon, First Lieutenant ; Asa Morris,
Second Lieutenant ; William Fussell, Ensign.

Eighth Company, Third Regiment. — Joseph Elliott, Cap-
tain ; Benoni Cutler, First Lieutenant ; Daniel Waters,
Second Lieutenant ; Comfort Day, Ensign.

Ninth Company, Third Regiment. — Ebenezer Moscley,
Captain ; Stephen Brown, First Lieutenant ; Melatiah
Bingham, Second Lieutenant ; Nathaniel Wales, En-
sign.

Tenth Company, Third Regiment. — Israel Putnam, Jun.,
Captain ; Samuel Robinson, Junior, First Lieutenant ;
Amos Avery, Second Lieutenant ; Caleb Stanley, En-
sign.

Rev. Abiel Leonard, Chaplain of the Third Regiment.

John Spalding, Surgeon ; Penuel Cheeney, Elijah Adams,
Surgeon's Slates, Third Regiment.

Fourth Regiment.

First Company, Fourth Regiment. — Benjamin Hinman,
Esquire, to be Colonel of the Fourth Regiment, and
Captain ; David Hinman, First Lieutenant ; Benjamin
Hungerford, Second Lieutenant ; Asahel Hurd, Ensign.

Second Company-, Fourth Regiment. — George Pitkin,
Esquire, to be Lieutenant-Colonel of the Fourth Regi-
ment, and Captain ; Isaac Fellows, First Lieutenant ;
David Bissell, Second Lieutenant ; Edward Payne,
Ensign.

Third Company, Fourth Regiment. — Samuel Elmore,
Esquire, to be Major of the Fourth Regiment, and Cap-
tain ; Amos Chappel, First Lieutenant ; Oliver Parme-
ly, Second Lieutenant ; Moses Shepard, Ensign.

Fourth Company, Fourth Regiment. — Nathaniel Buel,
Captain ; Timothy Holcomb, First Lieutenant ; Luther
Stoddard, Second Lieutenant; Nathan Dawsey, En-
sign.

Fifth Company, Fourth Regiment. — Shubael Griswold,
Captain ; Benjamin Mills, First Lieutenant ; Aaron
Austin, Second Lieutenant ; Caleb Lyman, Ensign.

Sixth Company, Fourth Regiment. — Josiah Starr, Cap-
tain ; Asaph Hall, First Lieutenant ; Paul Yates, Second
Lieutenant; Asahel Hodge, Ensign.

Seventh Company, Fourth Regiment. — Eleazar Curtiss,
Junior, Captain ; John Ranson, Junior, First Lieuten-
ant ; Morgan Noble, Second Lieutenant ; John Rock-
well, Ensign.

Eighth Company, Fourth Regiment. — John Sedgwick,
Captain ; Warham Gibbs, First Lieutenant ; James
Thomas, Second Lieutenant ; Matthew Patterson, En-

, S'gn-
Ninth Company, Fourth Regiment. — John Watson, Jun.,

Captain ; Theodore Woodbridge, First Lieutenant ; Ti-
tus Watson, Second Lieutenant; Jehiel Hull, Ensign.

Tenth Company, Fourth Regiment. — Hezekiah Parsons,
Captain ; Hezekiah Holdridge, First Lieutenant ; John
Skinner, Second Lieutenant ; Ebenezer Watson, En-
sign.

Reverend Cotton Mather Smith, Chaplain to the Fourth
Regiment.

Lemuel Wheeler, Surgeon ; Daniel Sheldon, Abel Catlin,
Surgeon's Mates, Fourth Regiment.

Fifth Regiment.

First Company, Fifth Regiment. — David Waterbury, Jun.,
to be Colonel of the Fifth Regiment, and Captain ; Syl-
vanus Brown, First Lieutenant ; Jonathan Whiting,
Second Lieutenant ; Samuel Hoyt, Ensign.

Second Company, Fifth Regiment. — Samuel JVhiting,
to be Lieutenant-Colonel of the Fifth Regiment, and

117

CONNECTICUT ASSEMBLY, APRIL, 1T75.

418

Captain ; Elijah Beach, First Lieutenant ; Robert Wal-
ker, Second Lieutenant ; Abijah Sterling, Ensign.

Third Company, Fifth Regiment. — Thomas Hobby, to be
Major of the Fifth Regiment, and Captain ; Bazaleel
Brown, First Lieutenant ; Samuel Lockwood, Second
Lieutenant ; John Waterbury , Ensign.

Fourth Company, Fifth Regiment. — David Dimon, Cap-
tain ; Peter Hendrick, First Lieutenant ; Ebenezer Hill,
Second Lieutenant; Wakeman Burr, Ensign.

Fifth Company, Fifth Regiment. — Matthew Mead, Cap-
tain ; Levi Taylor, First Lieutenant ; Samuel Cannon,
Second Lieutenant ; William Seymour, Ensign.

Sixth Company, Fifth Regiment. — Noble Benedict, Cap-
tain ; James Clark, First Lieutenant ; Ephraim Eyon,
Second Lieutenant ; Daniel Hickox, Ensign.

Seventh Company, Fifth Regiment. — AbrahamGray, Cap-
tain ; Stephen Wakeman, First Lieutenant ; Thaddeus
Rockwell, Second Lieutenant ; George Burr, Ensign.

Eighth Company, Fifth Regiment. — Joseph Smith, Jr.,
Captain; Abel Botsford, Jr., First Lieutenant ; Nathan-
iel Blackman, Second Lieutenant ; Silas Hubbel, Ensign.

Ninth Company, Fifth Regiment. — Nehemiah Beardslee,
Captain ; Samuel Keeler, First Lieutenant ; Zephaniah
Briggs, Second Lieutenant ; William Benedict, Ensign.

Tenth Company, Fifth Regiment. — Zalmon Read, Cap-
tain ; Peter Fairchild, First Lieutenant ; David Peet,
Second Lieutenant ; Benjamin Nichols, Ensign.

Reverend Samuel Wood, Chaplain of the Fifth Regiment.

John Wood, Surgeon ; Asael Fitch, Samuel Whiting,
Surgeon's Mates, Fifth Regiment.
Sixth Regiment.

First Company, Sixth Regiment. — Samuel Holden Par-
sons, Esquire, to be Colonel of the Sixth Regiment, and
Captain ; David F. Sill, First Lieutenant ; Christopher
Ely, Second Lieutenant ; Elisha Wade, Ensign.
Second Company, Sixth Regiment. — John Tyler, Esq.,
to be Lieutenant-Colonel of the Sixth Regiment, and
Captain; Elnathan Rossiter, First Lieutenant ; Ebenezer
Brewster, Second Lieutenant ; Joseph Hilyard, Ensign.
Third Company, Sixth Regiment. — Samuel Prentice, Esq.,
to be Major of the Sixth Regiment, and Captain ; James
Eldridge, First Lieutenant; Richard Hewei, Second
Lieutenant ; Oliver Babcock, Ensign.
Fourth Company, Sixth Regiment. — William Coit, Cap-
tain ; Jedediah Hide, First Lieutenant ; James Day,
Second Lieutenant ; William Adams, Junior, Ensign.
Fifth Company, Sixth Regiment. — James Chapman, Jun.,
Captain ; Christopher Darrow, First Lieutenant ; John
Raymond, Jr, Second ; George Lattimore, Ensign.
Sixth Company, Sixth Regiment. — Waterman Cleft, Cap-
tain ; William Edmond, First Lieutenant ; John McGre-
gor, Second Lieutenant ; Nathaniel Morgan, Ensign.
Seventh Company, Sixth Regiment. — Edward Molt, Cap-
tain ; Benjamin Throop, Jr., First Lieutenant ; Jeremiah
Halsey, Second Lieutenant ; Nathan Peters, Ensign.
Eighth Company, Sixth Regiment. — Samuel Gale, Cap-
tain ; Josiah Baldwin, First Lieutenant ; Elisha Lee,
Second Lieutenant; David Nevins, Ensign.
Ninth Company, Sixth Regiment. — John Ely, Captain ;
Abraham Waterhouse, First Lieutenant ; Martin Kirt-
land, Second Lieutenant; Israel Doan, Ensign.
Tenth Company, Sixth Regiment. — Abel Spicer, Cap-
tain ; Isaac Gallop, First Lieutenant ; Samuel Williams,
Second Lieutenant; William Latham, Ensign.
Rev. Stephen Johnson, Chaplain of the Sixth Regiment.
Philip Turner, Surgeon ; Thomas Fosdick, Benjamin El-
lis, Surgeon's Mates, Sixth Regiment.
Whereas this Assembly have ordered one-fourth part of
their Militia to be enlisted and equipped for the defence
and safety of this Colony, and appointed Officers to com-
mand the same, and as some of the Officers so appointed
may fail to accept said trust, or by death or otherwise
others may be wanted :

Resolved by this Assembly, That his Honour the Go-
vernour be desired, and he is hereby desired and empow-
ered to appoint Officers to fill up any such vacancy that
shall happen, and commission them accordingly.

Resolved by this Assembly, That Captain Joseph Trum-
bull be appointed, and he is hereby appointed Commissary
General, to take care of the Rations purchased at Salem,

by Brigadier-General Spencer, or any others that shall be
sent for our inhabitants enlisting or assembling for the spe-
cial defence and safety of this Colony, and take care that
the same are distributed among them; and take advantage
of any opportunity to purchase thereabouts any further
supply, when to be had on better terms than to be pur-
chased and had from this Colony ; to purchase the same as
there shall be occasion, and inform, from time to time, his
doings therein for the directions of the Commissaries em-
ployed in this Colony.

This Assembly do appoint Oliver Wolcott, Henry
Champion, Thomas Mumford, Jedediah Strong, Esquires,
Captain Jeremiah Wadsworth, Thomas Howel, Samuel
Squier, Esquires, Messrs. Amasa Keys and Hezekiah Bis-
sell, Commissaries, to supply all necessary Stores and Pro-
visions for the Troops now to be raised for the defence of
this Colony.

On Report of the Committee to consider how far the
Commissaries shall be instructed to procure Provisions and
other Supplies for the immediate use of the men now to be
raised for the defence of the Colony, it is now

Resolved, That Joseph Trumbull, Esquire, Commissary-
General, immediately purchase one hogshead of New-
England Rum, and one hundred Tin Kettles; and that
Captain Jeremiah Wadsworth procure, as soon as may be,
one hundred Tin Kettles, and also fifty barrels of Pork,
also fifty bushels of Peas and Beans, and immediately for-
ward said Peas and Beans to the Commissary-General,
and also procure two hundred hundred weight of Bread ;
and that Mr. Hezekiah Bissell procure sixty barrels of
Pork, and two hundred and forty hundred weight of Bread ;
and that the Commissaries in Litchfield County procure
twenty barrels of Pork, and eighty hundred weight of Bread,
and that the Commissaries for the County of Neiv-Haven,
Neiv-London, and Fairfield, each procure fifty barrels of
Pork, and two hundred hundred weight of Bread.

Resolved by this Assembly, That William Pitkin, Tho-
mas Seymour, Oliver Ellsivorth, and Ezekiel Williams,
Esquires, or any three of them, be a Committee with full
power, and they, or any three of them, are hereby fully
empowered to examine, liquidate, adjust, settle, and give
needful orders for the payment of the several accounts of
the expenses that have, or may be incurred, relative to
assembling, equipping, supplying, encouraging, or paying
wages to such of the inhabitants as may enlist for the de-
fence of this Colony for the current year ; said Committee
to proceed therein according to such order, rules, and direc-
tions, as shall from time to time be given by this Assembly
for that purpose.

Resolved by this Assembly, That the Committee of
Pay-Table be and they are hereby directed and empow-
ered to take Bonds, with sufficient sureties, payable to the
Governour and Company of this Colony, of every Com-
missary appointed, to provide Stores and Provisions for the
Troops now raising for the defence of the Colony ; and in
such Bond every Commissary shall be obliged, faithfully
and justly, to dispose of the money he shall receive for
the purpose aforesaid, and to account with the Committee
of Pay-Table for the same.

Resolved by this Assembly, That the chief Officers and
Captains of the several Companies to be enlisted, shall be
the Paymasters to their respective Companies, and that
the Committee of the Pay-Table be and they are hereby
directed and empowered to take Bonds, with sufficient sure-
ties, payable to the Governour and Company of this Colony,
of every Captain or other person who shall undertake to act
as Paymaster to any one of said Companies now to be en-
listed ; and in such Bond, every Paymaster shall be obligated
faithfully and justly to dispose of the money he shall re-
ceive for the purpose aforesaid, and to account to the Com-
mittee of the Pay-Table for the same ; and such Paymaster
shall be allowed one and a half per cent, for said service.

Whereas, a sum of Money is necessary for payment of
incident charges of Government :

Be it therefore enacted by the Governour, Council, and
Representatives in General Court assembled, and by the
authority of the same, That there be forthwith imprinted
the sum of fifty thousand Pounds, Bills of Credit on this
Colony, equal to lawful money, of suitable denominations

Fourth Series. — Vol. ii.

27

423

CORRESPONDENCE, PROCEEDINGS, &c, APRIL, 1775.

42-1

good remedial provision, and in this instance highly neces-
sary to be put in practice ; and we shall not fail ourselves
to make use of it at every opportunity, and make the life
of every Crown Officer in our power security for the safety
of John Brown, and those captured with him.

1 am, Sir, for myself, and in behalf of all the true friends
of freedom in this Colony, your friend and servant,

Step. Hopkins.
To the President of the Provincial Congress of Massachu-
setts-Bay, at Concord, or elsewhere. On express by
Doctor Wm. Bowui.

COLONEL ISAAC LEE TO GOVERNOUR TRUMBULL.

Farmington, April 27, 1775.
Honoured Sir : In consequence of the alarming scenes
that have occurred of late, by advice of the Field Officers
and others of the Fifteenth Regiment, in this Colony, I gave
orders for the whole Regiment under my command to be
prepared with arms and ammunition, and cartridges, and
every thing necessary for the defence of the Country ; and
to hold themselves ready to march at the shortest notice.
There appeared such a spirit of zeal in the soldiers for an
immediate march, that it was with difficulty that they were
prevented, until they might have orders from the Captain-
General, or the General Assembly. It appeared to us to
be attended with very dangerous consequences, and to have
a tendency to ruin the State, to march in such independent
Companies, and ought by no means to be adopted but in
a case of absolute necessity. On being assured by (as we
thought) good authority, that more Troops were arrived,
Sic, gave orders for one-fifth of the Regiment to meet at
the parade of the First Society, on the 26th of April in-
stant, at ten o'clock in the morning. About one hundred
and twenty able-bodied men appeared, and being divided
into two Companies, I led them to the choice of their
officers, Sic. The First Company made choice of Captain
Ncadiah Hooker for their Captain, and Lieutenant Peter
Curtis, First Lieutenant, Sergeant David Mather, Second
Lieutenant, Sergeant Amos .... Ensign. 1 then
led the Second Company to a choice, and they made
choice of Captain Asa Bray for their Captain, Lieutenant
Joseph Byington, First Lieutenant, Sergeant Amos Beech-
er, Second Lieutenant, Sergeant Ambrose Sloper, Ensign,
&.c, on which they were ordered to hold themselves in
readiness to march when they should receive orders from
the Captain-General, or the General Assembly, &tc, and
then dismissed, and desired them to attend the business of
their respective farms until further orders, Sic.
Certified by your Honour's humble servant,

Isaac Lee, Jr., Colonel.
To the Honourable Jonathan Trumbull, Esquire, Captain-
General of His Majesty's Troops in the Colony of Con-
necticut, &fC.

N. B. There is also provisions contracted for— enough
at least for twenty days, as also teams and carriages.

JEDEDIAH HUNTINGTON TO JONATHAN TRUMBULL, JUN.
Cambridge, Thursday, April 27, 1775.

Dear Sir: I came into this place through Boxbury, last
evening, and find great numbers of Troops, or rather armed
men, in much more confusion than I expected, but perhaps
with as little as possible, in this disordered state of the
Massachusetts. Most of the soldiers here are inhabitants
of this Province, who are now enlisting in a regular man-
ner. General Ward is at Boxbury ; General Putnam is
Commander-in-chief at this place. They have both of them
too much business u|>on their hands. I wish our General
Officers, as soon as appointed, might immediately repair to
Head Quarters ; they will, at this crisis of Provincial poli-
ticks, be very cordially accepted, and be of eminent service.

The Committee of Safety, who are the primum mobile
in the military movements, are crowded with business. It
is expected by many, that the inhabitants of Boston will
have leave to come out this day, with their effects, provided
they leave their arms and provisions. It is said that pork
sold there yesterday for a pistareen per pound, and milk
for a pistareen per quart, Many are suspicious that the
General intends to deceive them till he get possession of
their arms. An experienced Engineer deserted to the

Castle the 25th instant. Mr. Jonah Quincy is arrived
from London, in a very low state of health, and not ex-
)M rtcd to live. The Restraining Act is come by the same
ship. The reinforcements from England were not to sail
till the middle of April. I will, if possible, enclose you a
Salem paper. I expected to have seen brother Joseph by
this time. Your affectionate brother,

Jed. Huntington.
Mr. Jonathan Trumbull, Junior.

committee of safety to the selectmen of boston.

Cambridge, April 27, 1775.

Gentlemen: Your letter of the 25th instant came to
hand last evening, or you should have had an answer soon-
er. We feel for you with the keenest sensibility. Nothing
on our part shall be wanting. Our wish is, to know when
you are to be permitted to come out ; and at w7hat time.
We shall encourage the wagoners to go in. We have no
desire to injure or molest the person or property of any one
who inclines to take refuge in Boston ; and so soon as we
know the day appointed for you to come out, and the time
limited therefor, we shall take care that our part is per-
formed with that punctuality which we are determined ever
to observe in all cases where the honour of our Country, or
the safety of our beloved countrymen is concerned. We
desire that we may be furnished, without delay, with an
authenticated copy of your engagements with the General,
and such other information as is necessary for us.
We are, gentlemen, he.

committee of safety to the selectmen of boston.

Cambridge, April 27, 1775.

Gentlemen : It is here currently reported, that General
Gage gives out publickly that the Povincials fired upon
his detachment before the Troops fired upon the Provin-
cials. Such a report occasions astonishment and resent-
ment, as there is the clearest evidence, not only that the
Troops fired first at Lexington, and killed eight men there
before our people fired one gun, and then marched several
miles further, to Concord, and killed two men and wounded
several others, before one gun was fired in that place by
our men. He is a man, we trust, of too much honour to
propagate such a false account, and has been scandalously
deceived by his officers.

We think it probable that ten days may suffice for re-
moving your persons and most valuable effects. We hope
you will take care that your agreement is expressed in the
most unequivocal terms. We take it that it is not expected
that we suffer any persons to remove into Town, besides
such as mean to take up their residence there.
We are, &tc.

BOSTON COMMITTEE TO THE COMMITTEE OF SAFETY.

Boston, April 27, 1775.

Sir : Agreeably to your desire expressed in your letter
of this date, we send you the following, which contains
what has passed this day between his Excellency General
Gage, and the Committee, respecting the inhabitants re-
moving from the Town of Boston. We presume there
will be a speedy application for passes, as there are a con-
siderable number already who have given in their names,
according to his Excellency's prescription, and therefore
apprehend wagoners may be encouraged to come in as
soon as may be.

It is with great satisfaction we observe your determina-
tion not to injure or molest the person or property of any
one who inclines to take refuge in Boston, and hope you
have made proclamation for them to come in accordingly ;
and that as soon as you know the time appointed for us to
remove out of the Town, you are so kindly disposed to as-
sist us all in your power under our perplexed circum-
stances.

We could not give you an earlier answer, as your letter
did not come to hand till late this afternoon.

1 am, respectfully, in behalf of the Committee, your
most obedient humble servant, John Scollay.

To Doctor Jos. Warren, Chairman of the Committee of

Congress.

-125

CORRESPONDENCE, PROCEEDINGS, &c, APRIL, 1"

426

P. S. We beg you will proclaim in every Township,
that all persons desirous of coming into Boston with their
effects, may come without molestation ; and that we may
be authorized immediately to send five or six persons, or
gentlemen's servants, to ride through the different Towns
or Parishes, with open letters to the families of such people
as are desirous to come to Boston, to give them proper no-
tice. You will favour us with an answer as soon as possi-
ble. I am, as above, your most humble servant,

John Scollay.

Town-Meeting, Boston, April 27, 1775.

The Committee waited on his Excellency General Gage,
with the Papers containing the account of the Arms de-
livered to the Selectmen, and the Return made them by
the Constables of the Town, relative to the delivery of
Arms in their respective Wards. After long conversation
on the subject of the inhabitants removing themselves and
effects from the Town, his Excellency being obliged to at-
tend to other business, left the affair to be settled with
Brigadier General Robertson, who, after further conference,
and reporting the substance of it to General Gage, return-
ed to the Committee, and declared to them that General
Gage gives liberty to the inhabitants to remove out of
the Town, with their effects ; and desires that such in-
habitants as intend to remove, would give their names to
the Selectmen, and signify whether they mean to convey
out their effects by land or water, in order that passes may
be prepared ; for which passes application may be made to
General Robertson any time after eight o'clock to-morrow
morning ; such passes to be had as soon as persons want-
ing them shall be ready to depart.

DOCTOR JOSEPH WAKREN TO ARTHUR LEE.

Cambridge, April 27, 1775.

My Dear Sir : Our friend Quincy just lived to come
on shore to die in his own Country ; he expired yesterday
morning. His virtues rendered him dear, and his abilities
useful to his Country.

The wicked measures of the Administration have at
length brought matters to a crisis. I think it probable that
this rage of the people, excited by the most clear view of
the cursed designs of the Administration, and the barba-
rous effusion of the blood of their countrymen, will lead
them to attack General Gage, and burn the ships in the
harbour.

Lord Chatham and our friends must make up the breach
immediately, or never. If any thing terrible takes place,
it will not do to talk of calling the Colonies to account for
it ; but it must be attributed to the true cause — the un-
heard-of provocation given to this people. They will
never talk of accommodation until the present Ministry
are entirely removed. You may depend the Colonies will
sooner suffer depopulation than come into any measures
with them.

The next news from England must be conciliatory, or
the connexion between us ends, however fatal the conse-
quences may be. Prudence may yet alleviate the misfor-
tunes, and calm the convulsions into which the Empire is
thrown, by the madness of the present Administration.
May God Almighty direct you. If any thing is proposed
which may be for the honour and safety of Great Britain
and these Colonies, my utmost efforts will not be wantin"
to effect a reconciliation. I am, in the utmost haste, sur-
rounded by fifteen or twenty thousand men, your most
obedient servant, Jos. Warren.

To Arthur Lee, Esquire, London.

P. S. The Narrative sent to Doctor Franklin contains
a true state of facts ; but it was difficult to make the peo-
ple willing that any notice should be taken of the matter by
way of narrative, unless the Army and Navy were taken
or driven away. J. W.

march against any enemy, or sup|K>sed enemy, when he
shall think fit ; can build forts, or do any thing else with
the people's money, and demolish them at pleasure. In
short, be is possessed of absolute and despotick power,
only with this difference, (if it is any,) that the majority
of the Council (who hold their seats as before-mentioned)
must approve of his measures. The Council consists of
twenty-three persons, seven of them Roman Catholicks.

Williamsburgh, Virginia, April 28, 177.').

Yesterday, at about one o'clock, Mann Page, Junior,
Esquire, one of the Representatives for Spottsylvania,
arrived here in twenty-four hours from Fredericksburgh,
being charged by a number of people from different Coun-
ties, now assembling there, to inquire whether the gun-
powder had been replaced in the publick magazine, the
removal of which had spread a general alarm, and greatly
exasperated all ranks of people. Expresses had been sent
into several Counties, and it was expected that upwards of
two thousand men would be assembled in Fredericksburgh
by this evening; and the Militia of Caroline were ordered
to meet to-morrow at ten o'clock, to be in readiness to
join those of the upper Counties. Mr. Page returned
again in the evening, and carried a letter from the Honour-
able the Speaker, to endeavour to pacify the people ; and
as that gentleman sets out to-morrow by land to attend the
General Congress, we hear he proposes meeting them :
and it is hoped, from his great influence, that he will be
able to prevail on them to return home, and rest satisfied
with the Governour's promise that the powder shall be
given up when there is occasion for it. The independent
Companies of Caroline and Spottsyhania , we hear, have
determined to escort the Delegates from this Colony to
Hooe's Ferry, on Potomack.

EXTRACT OF A LETTER FROM O.UEBECK, APRIL 27, 1775.

The Governour's Commission from the King was read
here on Monday, the 24th instant. He has very ample
powers ; he chooses all the Members of the Council him-
self, and can discharge them at pleasure ; can oblige what
number of His Majesty's subjects in Canada he pleases to

PROCLAMATION BY GOVERNOUR FRANKLIN.

Perth-Amboy.

By His Excellency William Franklin, Esq., Captain-
General, Governour, and Commander-in- Chief in and
over the Province of New-Jersey, and Territories
thereon depending, in America, Chancellor and Vice-
Admiral in the same, SfC. :

A Proclamation.

Whereas I have lately received despatches from one of
His Majesty's principal Secretaries of State, containing
matters of great importance to the Colony, in the present
situation of publick affairs, and calculated to restore that
harmony between Great Britain and her American Colo-
nies so essential to the interest and happiness of both : and
being desirous of communicating the same as early as pos-
sible to the General Assembly of this Colony, in order to
give them an opportunity of using their best endeavours
towards effecting so desirable a purpose ; I have, there-
fore, thought fit, and by and with the advice and consent
of His Majesty's Council, do hereby appoint the said Gen-
eral Assembly to meet at the City of Burlington, on Mon-
day, the 15th day of May next ; of which all His Majes-
ty's subjects concerned therein are required to take notice,
and govern themselves accordingly.

Given under my hand and seal at arms, at the City of
Perth-Amboy, the twenty-eighth day of April, in the
fifteenth year of the reign of our Sovereign Lord King
George the Third, Annoq . Domini one thousand seven hun-
dred and seventy-five. William Franklin.

By His Excellency's command :

Charles Pettit, D. Secretary.
God save the King.

MEETING OF THE INHABITANTS OF PERTH-AMBOY,

NEW-JERSEY.

At a meeting of the inhabitants of the North Ward of
the City of Perth-Amboy, on Friday, the 28th of April.
1775:

Resolved unanimously, That James Parker, Stephen
Skinner, and Jonathan Deare, Esquires, or any two of them,
be a standing Committee of Correspondence for the North
Ward of this City.

427

CORRESPONDENCE, PROCEEDINGS, fcc, APRIL, 1775.

428

A copy of a Letter from the Committee of Corres-
pondence of Princeton, signed by Jonathan 1). Sergeant,
Esquire, Clerk to (be said Committee, transmitted by the
Committee of K'oodljiidge, and by them directed to the
inhabitants of this City, was read, wherein, after mention-
ing the very alarming intelligence lately received, a Pro-
vincial Congress for this Province is proposed to be held
on the 5th day of May next ; and a meeting of the inhabi-
tants being now called, that their sense might be taken on
the necessity and propriety of choosing Deputies to attend
the said Congress :

The question was thereupon put, whether Deputies
shall be sent or not, and carried in the affirmative unani-
mously.

James Parker, Stephen Skinner, and Jonathan Deare,
Esquires, were then nominated as Deputies to attend the
said Congress to represent this City, and were unanimously
chosen ; and it is requested that they, or any one or more
of them do attend the said Congress accordingly.

It is also agreed by the inhabitants now assembled, that
the expenses of the Deputies who shall attend the said
Congress be defrayed by this City.

It is also requested that Mr. Deare acquaint the Com-
mittees of Princeton and Woodbridge of the proceedings
of this meeting. By order of the meeting :

John Thomson, Clerk.

worthy of confidence and most capable of the arduous task.
Iking also fully persuaded of the necessity of a Provincial
Convention being summoned with all possible expedition,
we recommend it to you, at the same time, to choose
twenty Deputies to represent this City and County in such
Convention, to meet here on the 22d day of May next.
By order of the Committee :

Isaac Low, Chairman.

ADDRESS OF THE NEW-YORK COMMITTEE.

New- York, April 28, 1775.
To the Freeholders and Freemen of the City and County
of New- York :

We regret, gentlemen, the necessity we are under of
addressing you upon this occasion, and perceive with
anxiety the disorder and confusion into which this City
has been unfortunately involved.

From cool and temperate counsels only, good conse-
quences may be expected ; nor can union (so essential to
the success of our cause) be preserved, unless every mem-
ber of society will consent to be governed by the sense of
the majority, and join in having that sense fairly and can-
didly ascertained.

Conscious that the powers you conferred upon us were
not adequate to the present exigency of affairs, we were
unanimously of opinion that another Committee should be
appointed ; and well knowing that questions of the highest
moment and the last importance would come under their
consideration, and call for their determination, we thought
it most advisable that it should consist of a large number,
in order, by interesting many of weight and consequence in
all publick measures, they might meet with the more advo-
cates, receive less opposition, and be attended with more
certain success.

The names of one hundred persons were mentioned by
this Committee ; you were left at liberty to approve or re-
ject them, and appoint others in their room ; and that your
sense might be the better taken,. polls in each Ward were
directed to be opened. What could be more fair?

By all means, gentlemen, let us avoid divisions; and in-
stead of cherishing a spirit of animosity against one another,
let us join in forwarding a reconciliation of all parties, and
thereby strengthen the general cause.

.Many, no doubt, have become objects of distrust and sus-
picion, and, perhaps, not without reason ; you have now
an opportunity of trying them. It surely never can be
good policy to put it out of their power to join us heartily ;
it is time enough to reject them when they refuse us their
aid. In short, gentlemen, consider that our contest is for
liberty; and therefore we should be extremely cautious
how we permit our struggles to hurry us into acts of vio-
lence and extravagance inconsistent with freedom.

Permit us to entreat you to consider these matters
seriously, and act with temper as well as firmness ; and,
by all means, join in the appointment of some Committee,
to whom you may resort for counsel, and who may rescue
you from tumult, anarchy, and confusion.

We take the liberty, therefore, of recommending it to
you to go to the usual places of election in each of your
Wards, on Monday next at nine o'clock in the morning,
and then and there give your voices for a Committee of one
hundred ; to consist of such persons as you may think most

COMMITTEE FOR THE C1TV OF NEW-YORK TO THE SEVERAL
COUNTIES IN THE PROVINCE.

Committee Chamber, New-York, April 28, 1775.

Gentlemen: The distressed and alarming situation of
our Country, occasioned by the sanguinary measures adopt-
ed by the British Ministry, (to enforce which the sword
has been actually drawn against our brethren in the Mas-
sachusetts,) threatening to involve this Continent in all the
horrours of a civil war, obliges us to call for the united aid
and counsel of the Colony at this dangerous crisis.

Most of the Deputies who composed the late Provincial
Congress held in this City, were only vested with powers
to choose Delegates to represent the Province at the next
Continental Congress, and the Convention having executed
that trust, dissolved themselves. It is therefore thought
advisable by this Committee, that a Provincial Congress
be immediately summoned to deliberate upon, and from
time to time to direct such measures as may be expedient
for our common safety.

We persuade ourselves that no arguments can now be
wanting to evince the necessity of a perfect union ; and
we know of no method in which the united sense of the
people of the Province can be collected, but in the one
now proposed. Wre therefore entreat your County hear-
tily to unite in the choice of proper persons to represent
them at a Provincial Congress to be held in this City on
the 22d of May next. Twenty Deputies are proposed for
this City, and in order to give the greater weight and in-
fluence to the councils of the Congress, we could wish the
number of Deputies from the Counties may be consider-
able.

We can assure you, that the appointment of a Provin-
cial Congress, approved of by the inhabitants of this City
in general, is the most proper and salutary measure that
can be adopted in the present melancholy state of this Con-
tinent ; and we shall be happy to find that our brethren in
the different Counties concur with us in opinion. By or-
der of the Committee: Isaac Low, Chairman.

TO THE INHABITANTS OF NEW-YORK.

New- York, April 28, 1775.

On the 18th of instant, April, the humane and benevo-
lent General Gage ordered a select number of about twelve
hundred of his Grenadiers and best Troops, in a most
secret manner, to march up the country as far as Concord,
(as supposed) to seize Colonel Hancock and Mr. Samuel
Adams. The first exploit they performed was in their
way to Lexington ; they found about thirty men exercis-
ing, and, without any provocation, fired upon them, (for
about fifteen minutes,) killed six men, and wounded seve-
ral when they were retreating as fast as possible ; then the
Troops proceeded on their way to Concord. On the road
they killed a man on horseback, and killed geese, hogs,
cattle, and every living creature they came across; they
came to the house where said Hancock and Adams lodged,
(who luckily escaped them ;) they searched the house, and
when they could not find them, these barbarians killed the
woman of the house and all the children in cool blood, and
then set the house on fire.

Alas! would not the heathen, in all their savage bar-
barity and cruelty, blush at such horrid murder, and worse
than brutal rage? Is this the bravery of British Troops?
Is this the part of a truly great commander ? Is this the
native courage and intrepidity of English soldiers, so much
boasted of? Is it not rather the ferocity of a mad wild
beast, from whom they cannot be supposed to differ only
in shape ? Let every American hear and abhor ; let every
inhabitant consider what he is likely to suffer if he falls
into the hands of such cruel and merciless wretches ; what
miseries and calamities shall we not be subjected to, if we

-129

CORRESPONDENCE, PROCEEDINGS, &c, APRIL, 1775.

•130

submit to the unrighteous and tyrannical claims of the Par-
liament, of taking what we call our own, when and in what
manner they please, without our consent ; don't this teach
us that a body of men, as well as a particular person, may
tyrannically oppress? Let every American consider what
interest have we in George the Third, or what inheritance
have we in the Parliament of Great Britain. Have they
not declared that all the New-England Colonies are rebels,
and have ordered and commanded their blood-thirsty sol-
diers to cut the throats of men, women, and children, and
are they not at this instant endeavouring to carry their
bloody decrees into execution? And how long (besure
not a great while) before the rest of the Americans will
meet with the same, unless they tamely give up their all
into their hands, to be taken by them as they please,
without the Colonies' consent; but God be thanked, the
soldiery have met with a check. And for what is all this
rage and fury? For no other cause but that we are slow
to believe the power of Parliament is omnipotent, and that
they have a right to dispose of us and all we have as they
please, without our consent. Surely no man in his senses,
or that hath any notion of preserving his person or proper-
ty, but what will, without hesitancy, resolve and determine
to sell his life as dear as he can, rather than submit to
such a slavish and abject condition. Therefore, my coun-
trymen, think, and by thinking you will necessarily be led to
determine that now or never you may be free ; if once you
lose this opportunity and submit, it is not probable you
will ever have another. If any should say we had better
try conciliatory measures, and again petition for relief from
the King and Parliament, I ask, to what purpose can it
be ? Have not particular Colonies tried petitioning by
themselves, and have not all the Colonies united in a pe-
tition for relief? And to what effect? Have they not
been disdainfully and contemptuously trampled upon, and
treated with scorn, and called nothing but factious com-
plaints ? Doth it not plainly appear, that both the King
and the Ministry are so fixed and determined at all hazards
to destroy American liberty, as that it is to as little purpose
to complain, or reason with them, as it is to reason with
irrational creatures ? Therefore it seems there is nothing
for us to do, but to appeal unto God in the use of what
force and strength we have in defence of our liberties and
properties, and rely on his Almighty aid for help to repel
the tyrant's rage. An American.

THOMAS BROWN TO COLONEL GEORGE PITKIN.

Cambridge, April 28, 1775, 3 o'clock, P. M.
This minute arrived from Boston Mr. Henderson Inches,
with the agreeable news that the Governour had opened
the gates, and given all the people that have a mind to
move out, notice to give in their names to the Selectmen ;
and they are to have a guard to guard them out; and they
are to have thirty wagons to move their effects ; and when
they return, thirty more to go in. The inhabitants are to
resign their arms, and the Tories to have liberty to move
in with their effects. And he furthermore brings advice
by the last vessel from England, that when the Regiment
of Light-Horse were going to embark, the populace rose
and prevented their embarkation ; and the General Officers
that came away, were obliged to go on board incognito ;
but he further says the Ministry have ordered ten thousand
Troops more to be sent, but they will not be here until the
last of May; and being in haste, shall subscribe myself
your most humble servant, Thomas Brown.

To Colonel George Pitkin.

gress have had a conference with your respectable Com-
mittee.

We find the fullest conviction in the minds of the in-
habitants of our sister Colonies, as well as of this, that by
their immediate and most vigorous exertions, there is the
greatest prospect of establishing their liberties and saving
their Country ; and that without such exertions, all must
be lost.

It is the opinion of this Congress, as already communi-
cated, that a powerful army on our side must at once cut
out such a work for a tyrannical Administration, as, under
the great opposition which they meet with in England.
they cannot accomplish ; and that their system of despot-
ism must soon be shaken to the foundation. But should
they still pursue their sanguinary measures, the Colonies
will then be able to make a successful stand. We have
the utmost confidence in your patriotick Colony, whose in-
habitants have signalized themselves in joining their breth-
ren in this ; and 1 hope to see the New-Hampshire Gov-
ernment, which has been exposed to the corruption of a
British Ministry, soon placed upon such a footing as will
be best calculated to promote the true interest of the same,
and to prevent in future such unhappy disputes as have
taken place with the Mother Country. We have just re-
ceived an agreeable account of the conduct of our brethren
in New-York, and have delivered a copy of the letter to
your Committee.

We sincerely thank you for the late measures taken by
your Convention at Exeter, and are fully persuaded that
the Congress of the Colony, which is to meet on the 17th
of May, will take such effectual steps as the present emer-
gency of publick affairs requires, and the Continent of
America must necessarily approve at large.

LETTER FROM THE CONGRESS OF MASSACHUSETTS TO THE

CONGRESS OF NEW-HAMPSHIRE.

In Provincial Congress, Watertown, )
April 23, 1775. \

" Resolved unanimously, That the following Letter be
authenticated by the President of this Congress, and de-
livered to Colonel Nathaniel Folsom, Colonel Josiah Bart-
lett, and Major Samuel Hobart, Esquires, Committee from
the Convention of the Colony of New- Hampshire, as an
answer to their Letter of the 26th instant."

Gentlf.men: It is with pleasure we have received your
letter above mentioned, and by a Committee of this Con-

LETTER TO A GENTLEMAN IN NEWPORT, RHODE-ISLANI;.

Roxbury, April 28, 1775.

Notwithstanding your many neglects; notwithstanding
my many avocations, I once more salute yctu,jacta est alea.
What folly could have induced General Gage to act a part
so fatal to Britain. It is all over with them ; their wither-
ing laurels will soon be plucked from their brows by the
rapacious Bourbon. I pity the madness which effected
their destruction.

You have, no doubt, been informed of the affair of Wed-
nesday the 19th. Is it not truly amazing, that such a body
of Regulars, so thoroughly appointed, with artillery, &c,
should be defeated and put to flight by a handful of raw,
undisciplined peasants ? We have lost but forty-one, and
but few, not exceeding ten, wounded ; they have near
three hundred killed, wounded, and missing. Our coun-
trymen swarm to our defence from all quarters. We are
busily organizing our Troops, and shall soon have a well-
constructed army in the field of thirty thousand men.
Gage and his Troops are immured within the walls of
Boston ; and what is a delay to our satisfaction, our friends
are entrapped by them. We have some hopes they will
be liberated this day. General Gage has proposed, upon
their surrendering their arms, that they march out. They
surrendered their arms yesterday.

Poor Quincy, alas ! he is no more. He returned to his
native Country, pressed the beloved soil, and died. We
did not see him ; he breathed his last the night before last,
at Cape Ann.

We have had an express by the way of Connecticut, en-
closing transcripts from letters sent lately to New- York.
Such a vile system of slavery is preparing for us as might
make a Domitian blush. Thank God, our enemies will
assuredly be defeated.

GOVERNOUR HOPKINS TO THE MASSACHUSETTS PROVIN-
CIAL CONGRESS.

Providence, April 28, 1775.

Gentlemen : Mr. Joseph Brown and Mr. Moses
Brown, of this place, principal merchants, and gentlemen
of distinction and probity, will wait upon you with this
letter. Their brother, Mr. John Brown, of this Town,
merchant, was, two days ago, forcibly taken at Newport
in a packet, as he was coming from thence with a quantity
of flour which he had purchased there. He was carried

in

CORRESPONDENCE, PROCEEDINGS., fee, APRIL, 1773.

432

on board a Sliip-of-War and confined ; and we have since
heard that be was sent round to Boston with the flour.

I request you to give to the bearers any aid and assist-
ance in your power, for procuring the relief and discharge
of their brother. In my letter of yesterday to the Con-
gress, the measure of reprisal in this instance was recom-
mended, and if it may be, I wish it may be pursued.

1 am your friend and humble servant,

Step. Hopkins.

President of the Congress in Massachusetts.

JAMES ANGELL TO THE MASSACHUSETTS CONGRESS.
Providence, Rhode- Island, April 28, 1775.

Sir : At the request of his Honour the Deputy Govern-
our, I have undertaken to answer yours of the 26th in-
stant.

We, Sir, sensibly feel the distresses of our brethren in
the Massachusetts- Bay, and can only say, that, as Briga-
dier of the three Battalions under my command in the
County of Providence, I will furnish you, upon any alarm,
with six hundred men ; but the situation of matters is such,
occasioned partly by our Assembly's not appointing officers
for the fifteen hundred men which they ordered to be raised
for your assistance, and partly by the seizure made by the
Man-of-War at Newport of three hundred barrels of flour
bought by this Colony for supplying our Army, that it will
be impossible for our forces immediately to proceed to join
your Army, unless they go destitute of provision, which,
we imagine here, would rather be a burden than a help to
our friends. However, men are enlisting very fast, and
when our Assembly meets here, which will be next week,
you may rely on it that our forces will, as fast and as soon
as possible, march to your assistance. I am, Sir, your most
obedient humble servant, James Angell.

Z. ANDREWS AND T. FREEMAN TO THE MASSACHUSETTS
CONGRESS.
Providence, Rhodo-Island, April 28, 1775.

Dear Sir : The anxiety we feel upon seeing the present
situation of affairs, will be our apology for troubling you
with a letter, the design of which is to convey you intelli-
gence that might, with more propriety, come to you from
other persons.

Deputy Governour Sessions received your letter re-
questing assistance, which we have seen a copy of yester-
day. The Assembly have adjourned, after passing a simple
vote that fifteen hundred men, with suitable stores, should
be raised at Government's expense ; and leaving the matter
there. Nobody at present thinks himself authorized to
enlist men, and therefore, scarce any thing in that way has
been done. Mr. John Brown is taken prisoner on board
a Man-of-War, and a quantity of flour which he had pur-
chased at Newport is seized, and it is, with him, to sail in
a sloop for Boston immediately, if he is not already gone.

Our Assembly meets here on Wednesday next, and then
we hope to see something done in compliance with your
request ; but we do absolutely despair of any thing being
done before, if then. We are sorry to say it, from our
hearts ; but fearing you might rely too much upon this
Government, we thought it our indispensable duty to give
you this information. The gentlemen who attended our
Assembly as Delegates from your Congress well know
where the difficulty lies, and which we hope will be re-
moved next week.

We observed one clause in your letter respecting the
artillery, upon which we beg leave to observe, that we
have heavy cannon, if such are wanted; but if field-
pieces are most required, we believe that more than four
or five cannot be ready to come to you, which are now pre-
paring with all possible despatch. We are, Sir, with great
respect, your obedient humble servants,

Zeph. Andrews, Lieut, of Grenadiers.
Thos. Freeman, Lieut, of Light -Infantry.

MASSACHUSETTS CONGRESS TO STEPHEN HOPKINS.

Watertown, April 28, 1775.

Sir : It is with the deepest concern we find Mr. Brown,
that valuable friend of the cause of America, betrayed into

the hands of our common enemies ; and every measure for
his release that can be pursued by us, shall most earnestly
be adopted.

We have ordered Samuel Murray, son of the Mandamus
Counsellor, and such Officers of General Gage's Army as
are prisoners of war, not disabled from travelling, to be
immediately sent, with a sufficient guard, to Providence ;
and I think it best that Murray and Officers should write
to their friends in Boston, and acquaint them that Mr.
Brown's friends have the same advantage over them as
General Gage hath over Mr. Brown.

We beg leave to suggest to you the critical situation of
the Colony at the present time, which disables the Con-
gress from immediately seizing every Crown Officer in the
Government. Boston is closed, and the numerous inhabit-
ants so obnoxious to our enemies, are imprisoned therein.
Several of our seaports are blockaded with shipping, and
threatened with destruction if they join the Army. Under
this situation, the inhabitants of those places most in dan-
ger, are day and night removing their furniture and effects ;
and we hope soon to see it generally done. Should we,
therefore, seize the Crown Officers as proposed, it may
hurl on us and our seaports sudden destruction, before
they have an opportunity of saving themselves. We had
it in contemplation to send a letter to the General, ac-
quainting him that we should treat the Crown Officers with
severity if Mr. Brown should be so treated by him ; but
we are apprehensive it would produce an unhappy, rather
than good effect, as he has a greater number of our friends
than we have of his. We desire you to give us your fur-
ther sentiments of the matter. If any other way is left
wherein the Congress can save Mr. Brown, it shall be rea-
dily pursued. We are, &c.

In Provincial Congress, Watertown, )
April 28, 1775. $

Whereas, a worthy friend to the liberties of America,
Mr. John Brown, of Providence, hath been lately seized,
and with two other persons, carried on board a British
Ship-of-War at Newport :

Ordered, That Samuel Murray and two such Officers
of General Gage's Army, as are now prisoners of war, and
not disabled from travelling on account of their wounds,
be immediately sent under a sufficient guard to Providence,
and delivered to Hon. Stephen Hopkins, Esquire, or other
friends of said Mr. Brown; to be made such use of as
they shall think proper, for obtaining the liberty of the said
Mr. Brown.

MASSACHUSETTS CONGRESS TO STEPHEN HOPKINS.

Watertown, April 29, 1775.

Sir : The above is a copy of an Order and Letter which
passed this Congress yesterday, since which we have re-
ceived from Boston copies of sundry Votes of that Town to
Gen. Gage, upon the subject of a license, for the inhabitants
to remove with their effects into the country ; and by his an-
swers it appears that he has consented to suffer such inhab-
itants as have inclination therefor, to leave the place with
their effects, excepting fire-arms, which are to be delivered
at Faneuil Hall, to the Selectmen of the Town, and the
name of the owner to be placed on them ; and the Gen-
eral expects, on the other hand, a Proclamation from Con-
gress, giving liberty to all inhabitants of the Colony having
inclination therefor, to remove, with all their effects, into
Boston. Some of the inhabitants have already left the
Town, by permission of the General ; and under these cir-
cumstances, should we issue the Order which has passed
in Congress, it may put a stop to this unexpected favour-
able event, and prevent the emancipation of many thou-
sands of friends to America. We nevertheless propose to
detain the prisoners of war ; and if the General should not
forfeit his plighted faith, to use all expedition in getting out
the families and effects of our friends from Boston, that we
may be at liberty to use our prisoners, and every other
means in our power, for the release of Mr. Brown, as was
intended. We have just heard that the passages to and from
Boston are again stopped ; but the occasion of this extra-
ordinary manoeuvre, we cannot yet learn.

We are, with great respect, 8ic.
To the Honourable 5. Hopkins, Esq., of Providence.

188

CORRESPONDENCE, PROCEEDINGS, he, APRIL, 1775.

434

LETTER FROM THE COMMITTEE OF SAFETY TO THE
SEVERAL TOWNS IN MASSACHUSETTS.

Cambridge, April 28. 1775.

Gentlemen : The barbarous murders committed on our
innocent brethren on Wednesday the 1 9th instant, have
made it absolutely necessary that we immediately raise an
Army to defend our wives and children from the butcher-
ing hands of an inhuman soldiery, who, incensed at the
obstacles they met with in their bloody progress, and en-
raged at being repulsed from the field of slaughter, will,
without doubt, take the first opportunity in their power to
ravage this devoted Country with fire and sword. We
conjure, therefore, by all that is dear, by all that is sacred,
that you give all assistance possible in forming the Army.
Our all is at stake. Death and devastation are the certain
consequences of delay ; every moment is infinitely precious ;
an hour lost may deluge your Country in blood, and entail
perpetual slavery upon the few of your posterity who may
survive the carnage. We beg and entreat, as you will an-
swer it to your Country, to your own consciences, and,
above all, to God himself, that you will hasten and encou-
rage, by all possible means, the enlistment of men to form
the Army, and send them forward to Head Quarters at
Cambridge, with that expedition which the vast importance
and instant urgency of the affair demands. We are, &c.

NEWBURYPORT COMMITTEE TO THE MASSACHUSETTS
COMMITTEE OF WAR.

Newburyport, April 28, 1775.

Sir : Mr. Christian Febiger, the bearer, has been a re-
sident in this Town about three weeks. He came last from
h'ew-Haven, in Connecticut, and from what acquaintance
we have had with him, it appears that he is a person well
acquainted with the art military, and professes that since he
is a Dane, he is willing to serve in the American Army for
pay. He appeared very ready to assist in our late alarm.

In behalf of the Committee.

JONA. TlTCOMB.

To the Honourable the Chairman of the Committee of War.

SELECTMEN OF SANDBORNTON TO THE NEW-HAMPSHIRE
CONGRESS.

Sandbornton, April 28, 1775.
Gentlemen: The messenger who bears this waits upon
you to request your advice at this critical and alarming
juncture. We are in a state almost totally destitute of the
proper means of defence. People among us are extremely
uneasy and greatly alarmed. We have made repeated
trials to furnish ourselves with ammunition, but without
success. We therefore request such advice as you in your
wisdom shall think fit, and such assistance as you may
please to grant.

We are encouraged to make this application, as we
understand the Province Store is opened, and a barrel of
Powder brought to Canterbury. We can assure you that
it will be applied to no other use but our Country's defence,
being determined to resist all hostile attempts against our
sacred and invaluable privileges to the last extremity.
We are, gentlemen, your most obedient humble servants,

John Sandborn,
Aaron Sandborn,
Caleb Gilman.
To the Honourable Congress convened at Exeter.

GOVERNOUR TRUMBULL TO GENERAL GAGE.

[Read before Congress, May 19, 1775.]

Hartford, April 28, 1775.

Sir : The alarming situation of publick affairs in this
Country, and the late unfortunate transactions in the Prov-
ince of the ]\]assachusetts-Bay, have induced the General
Assembly of this Colony, now sitting in this place, to ap-
point a Committee* of their body, to wait upon your Ex-
cellency, and to desire me, in their name, to write to you,
relative to those very interesting matters.

The inhabitants of this Colony are intimately connected

* Doctor Johnson and Oliver Wolcott, Esquire.

Fourth Series. — Vol. m.

with the people of your Province, and esteem themselves
bound, by the strongest ties of friendship, as well as of
common interest, to regard with attention whatever con-
cerns them. You will not, therefore, be surprised that your
first arrival at Boston, with a body of His Majesty's Troops,
for the declared purpose of carrying into execution certain
Acts of Parliament, which, in their apprehension, were un-
constitutional and oppressive, should have given the good
people of this Colony a very just and general alarm. Your
subsequent proceedings in fortifying the Town of Boston,
and other military preparations, greatly increased their ap-
prehensions for the safety of their friends and brethren.
They could not be unconcerned spectators of their suffer-
ings in that which they esteemed the common cause of
this Country ; but the late hostile and secret inroads of some
of the Troops under your command, into the heart of the
Country, and the violences they have committed, have
driven them almost to a state of desperation. They feel
now, not only for their friends, but for themselves, and their
dearest interests and connections.

We wish not to exaggerate ; we are not sure of every
part of our information, but by the best intelligence that
we have yet been able to obtain, the late transaction was
a most unprovoked attack upon the lives and property of
His Majesty's subjects ; and it is represented to us that such
outrages have been committed as would disgrace even
barbarians, and much more Britons, so highly famed for
humanity as well as bravery.

It is feared, therefore, that we are devoted to destruction,
and that you have it in command and intention to ravage
and desolate the Country. If this is not the case, permit
us to ask, why have these outrages been committed ? Why-
is the Town of Boston now shut up ? To what end are
all the hostile preparations that are daily making? And
why do we continually hear of fresh destinations of Troops
to this Country ? The people of this Colony, you may
rely upon it, abhor the idea of taking up arms against the
Troops of their Sovereign, and dread nothing so much as
the horrours of a civil war. But, sir, at the same time we
beg leave to assure your Excellency, that as they appre-
hend themselves justified by the principle of self-defence,
they are most firmly resolved to defend their rights and
privileges to the last extremity ; nor will they be restrained
from giving aid to their brethren, if any unjustifiable attack
is made upon them.

Be so good, therefore, as to explain yourself upon this
most important subject, so far as is consistent with your
duty to our common Sovereign. Is there no way to pre-
vent this unhappy dispute from coming to extremities ? Is
there no alternative but absolute submission, or the desola-
tions of war? By that humanity which constitutes so
amiable a part of your character, and for the honour of our
Sovereign, and the glory of the British Empire, we en-
treat you to prevent it if possible. Surely it is to be hoped
that the temperate wisdom of the Empire might even yet
find expedients to restore peace, that so all parts of the
Empire may enjoy their particular rights, honours, and im-
munities. Certainly this is an event most devoutly to be
wished ; and will it not be consistent with your duty to
suspend the operations of war on your part, and enable us
on ours to quiet the minds of the people, at least till the
result of some further deliberations may be known?

The importance of the occasion will no doubt sufficiently
apologize for the earnestness with which we address you,
and any seeming impropriety which may attend it, as well
as induce you to give us the most explicit and favourable
answer in your power.

I am, with great esteem and respect, in behalf of the
General Assembly, Sir, your most obedient servant.

To his Excellency Thomas Gage, Esq.

GENERAL GAGE TO GOVERNOUR TRUMBULL.

Boston, April 29, 1775.

Sir : I transmit you herewith a circumstantial account
of an unhappy affair that happened in this Province on the
nineteenth instant, between His Majesty's Troops and the
people of the country, whereby you will see the pitch their
leaders have worked them up to, even to commit hostilities
upon the King's Troops when an opportunity offered. It

28

435

CORRESPONDENCE, PROCEEDINGS, he, APRIL, 17:5.

436

lias long been said that this was their plan, and so it has
turned out.

1 am, with regard and esteem, Sir, your most obedient
humble servant, Thos. Gage.

To the Honourable Governour Trumbull.

A circumstantial Account of an Attack that happened on
the \9th April, 1775. on His Majesty's Troops, by a
number of the People of the Province of the Massa-
chusetts-Bay.

On Tuesday the 18th of April, about half-past ten at
night, Lieutenant Colonel Smith, of the Tenth Regiment,
embarked from the Common, at Boston, with the Grena-
diers and Light-In fan try of the Troops there, and landed
on the opposite side; from whence he began his march to-
wards Concord, where he was ordered to destroy a maga-
zine of military stores, deposited there for the use of an
Army to be assembled in order to act against His Majesty
and his Government. The Colonel called his officers to-
gether, and gave orders that the Troops should not fire
unless fired upon ; and after marching a few miles, detached
six Companies of Light-Infantry, under the command of
Major Pitcairn, to take possession of two bridges on the
other side of Concord. Soon after, they heard many sig-
nal guns, and the ringing of alarm-bells repeatedly, which
convinced them that the country was rising to oppose them,
and that it was a preconcerted scheme to oppose the King's
Troops, whenever there should be a favourable opportunity
for it. About three o'clock the next morning, the Troops
being advanced within two miles of Lexington, intelligence
was received that about five hundred men in arms were
assembled, and determined to oppose the King's Troops ;
and on Major Pitcairn' s galloping up to the head of the
advanced Companies, two officers informed him that a man
(advanced from those that were assembled) had presented
his musket, and attempted to shoot them, but the piece
Hashed in the pan. On this the Major gave directions to
the Troops to move forward, but on no account to fire, nor
even to attempt it without orders. When they arrived at
the end of the village, they observed about two hundred
armed men drawn up on a green, and when the Troops
came within one hundred yards of them, they began to file
off towards some stone walls on their right flank ; the Light-
Infantry observing this, ran after them. The Major in-
stantly called to the soldiers not to fire, but to surround and
disarm them. Some of them who had jumped over a wall,
then fired four or five shot at the Troops, wounded a man
of the Tenth Regiment, and the Major's horse in two
places, and at the same time several shots were fired from
a meeting-house on the left. Upon this, without any order
or regularity, the Light-Infantry began a scattered fire, and
killed several of the country people, but were silenced as
soon as the authority of their officers could make them.

After this, Colonel Smith marched up with the remainder
of the detachment, and the whole body proceeded to Con-
cord, where they arrived about nine o'clock, without any
thing further happening ; but vast numbers of armed peo-
ple were seen assembling on all the heights. While Colonel
Smith, with the Grenadiers and part of the Light-Infantry,
remained at Concord to search for cannon, &,c, there, he
detached Captain Parsons, with six light companies, to
secure a bridge at some distance from Concord, and to pro-
ceed from thence to certain houses, where it wras supposed
there was cannon and ammunition. Captain Parsons, in
pursuance of these orders, posted three companies at the
bridge, and on some heights near it, under the command
of Captain Laurie, of the Forty -Third Regiment, and with
the remainder went and destroyed some cannon-wheels,
powder, and ball. The people still continued increasing
on the heights, and in about an hour after, a large body of
them began to move towards the bridge. The light com-
panies of the Fourth and Tenth then descended and joined
Captain Laurie. The people continued to advance in great
numbers, and fired upon the King's Troops ; killed three
men, wounded four officers, one sergeant, and four pri-
vates ; upon which (after returning the fire) Captain Laurie
and his officers thought it prudent to retreat towards the
main body at Concord, and were soon joined by two com-
panies of Grenadiers. When Captain Parsons returned
with the three Companies over the bridge, they observed

three soldiers on the ground, one of them scalped, his head
much mangled, and his ears cut off, though not cpj'ite dead —
a sight which struck the soldiers with horrour. Captain
Parsons marched on and joined the main body, who were
only wailing for his coming up to march back to Boston.
Colonel Smith had executed his orders, without opposition,
by destroying all the military stores he could find. Both
the Colonel and Major Pitcairn having taken all possible
pains to convince the inhabitants that no injury was intended
them, and that if they opened their doors when required,
to search for said stores, not the slightest mischief should
be done. Neither had any of the people the least occa-
sion to complain ; but they were sulky, and one of them
even struck Major Pitcairn.

Except upon Captain Laurie at the bridge, no hostilities
happened from the affair at Lexington, until the Troops
began their march back. As soon as the Troops had got
out of the Town of Concord, they received a heavy fire
on them from all sides — from walls, fences, houses, trees,
barns, &c, which continued, without intermission, till they
met the First Brigade, with two field-pieces, near Lexing-
ton, ordered out under the command of Lord Percy to sup-
port them. Upon the firing of the field-pieces, the people's
fire was for a while silenced ; but as they still continued to
increase greatly in numbers, they fired again, as before,
from all places where they could find cover, upon the whole
body, and continued so doing for the space of fifteen miles.
Notwithstanding their numbers, they did not attack openly
during the whole day, but kept under cover on all occasions.
The Troops were very much fatigued ; the greater part of
them having been under arms all night, and made a march
of upwards of forty miles before they arrived at Charles-
town, from whence they were ferried over to Boston.

The Troops had above fifty killed, and many more
wounded; reports are various about the loss sustained by
the country people; some make it very considerable, others
not so much.

Williamsburgh, May 20, 1775.

Account of an Attack upon a body of the King's Troops,
by a number of People of the Province of Massachu-
setts-Bay, on the ]9th of Apkil, transmitted by Gene-
ral Gage to Lord Dunmore, Governour of Virginia.
General Gage having received intelligence that a con-
siderable magazine of military stores was forming at Con-
cord, for an Army which was to assemble there in order to
act against His Majesty and his Government, thought pro-
per to order the Grenadiers and light companies of the
Regiments at Boston, under the command of Lieutenant
Colonel Smith, of the Tenth Regiment, to march to the
Town of Concord, and to destroy all the military stores
they might find there. Pursuant to these orders Lieutenant
Colonel Smith crossed, about ten o'clock at night, from the
Common to the opposite side, and began his march towards
Concord, having first given strict charge to all his officers
that they should, on no account, suffer any of their men to
fire upon any inhabitants, unless they were first attacked by
them. The advanced guard, consisting of six companies
of Light-Infantry, under Major Pitcairn, had proceeded to
within two miles of Lexington, when they received intelli-
gence that five hundred men were drawn together, and
seemed determined to oppose the Troops; at the same
time many signal guns were fired from different places,
bells were set ringing, and the country every where alarm-
ed. As the party under Major Pitcairn advanced towards
Lexington, a man presented his piece at the officer in the
front, but it flashed in the pan ; and when the party reached
the end of the village, they discovered about two hundred
men under arms, and drawn up on a green, who waited
till the Troops came within about one hundred yards of
them, and then filed off to their right, and posted them-
selves behind some stone walls. Upon which the soldiers
ran up towards them, and Major Pitcairn called out to them
not to fire, but to surround and disarm them ; but the
others having got over the walls, fired from behind them
four or five shot at the Troops, which wounded a man of
the Tenth Regiment, and the Major's horse in two places ;
at the same time several shot were fired from a meeting-
house adjoining. Upon this, without any order or regu-
larity, the soldiers began a scattered fire, and killed several

437

CORRESPONDENCE, PROCEEDINGS, k, APRIL, 1775.

438

of the country people, but they were soon stopped by their
officers.

Colonel Smith came up with the rest of the detachment,
and they proceeded together to Concord, where they ar-
rived about nine o'clock in the morning, and while he was
putting his orders into execution, in destroying the maga-
zine which was found there, he detached a party of six
companies of Light-Infantry to secure a bridge at some
little distance from the Town, and to destroy some ammu-
nition which they were informed was in several houses
thereabouts. This detachment was commanded by Capt.
Parsons, of the Tenth Regiment, who, leaving three com-
panies at the bridge, with the remainder went in search of
and destroyed a quantity of powder, ball, and cannon-
wheels, which he found. In the mean time a great num-
ber of the country people assembled about this party, and
fired upon the three companies posted at the bridge — •
killed three men, wounded four officers, one sergeant, and
four privates. The Troops returned the fire, and retreated
towards their main body at Concord, and were soon fol-
lowed by Captain Parsons and the other three Companies,
who, in passing over the bridge, found three soldiers lying
on the ground, one of whom had been scalped, his head
much mangled, and his ears cutoff, though not quite dead.

Lieutenant Colonel Smith being joined by this party,
and having completed the business which had been the ob-
ject of this design, quitted Concord on his return to Boston ;
but as soon as he had got without the place, he found him-
self attacked on all sides from the walls, houses, barns,
trees, and every place that afforded cover, and a heavy
fire continued upon the Troops until they were met by
Lord Percy with his Brigade and two field-pieces, upon
the firing of which the country people concealed them-
selves, and ceased. But as soon as the Troops put them-
selves in march they were again attacked as before, and
without intermission, till the Troops reached Charlestown,
from whence they were ferried over to Boston.

The Troops made several halts and returned the fire of
the country people, who, however, kept themselves en-
tirely covered and concealed, and did not make the least
attempt to show themselves, or venture a close engagement.
The Troops lost fifty men killed, and many more are
wounded; the loss sustained by the others is not known ;
some accounts make it very considerable, others little or
nothing.

ACCOUNT OF AN ATTACK ON THE INHABITANTS OF MASSA-
CHUSETTS BY THE BRITISH TROOPS, ACTING UNDER
THE ORDERS OF GENERAL GAGE, ON THE 19TH OF
APRIL, 1775.

Worcester, Massachusetts, May 3, 1775.

Americans, for ever bear in mind the battle of Lexing-
ton, where British Troops, unmolested and unprovoked,
wantonly, and in a most inhuman manner, fired upon and
killed a number of our countrymen, then robbed them of
their provisions, ransacked, plundered, and burnt their
houses! Nor could the tears of defenceless women, some
of whom were in the pains of childbirth, the cries of help-
less babes, nor the prayers of old age, confined to beds of
sickness, appease their thirst for blood, or divert them from
their design of murder and robbery !

The particulars of this alarming event will, we are credi-
bly informed, be soon published by authority, as a Com-
mittee of the Provincial Congress have been appointed to
make special inquiry, and to take the depositions, on oath,
of such as are knowing to the matter. In the mean time,
to satisfy the expectation of our readers, we have collected
from those whose veracity is unquestioned the following
account, viz :

A few days before the battle, the Grenadier and Light-
Infantry Companies were all drafted from the several
Regiments in Boston, and put under the command of an
Officer, and it was observed that most of the transports
and other boats were put together, and fitted for immedi-
ate service. This manoeuvre gave rise to a suspicion that
some formidable expedition was intended by the soldiery,
hut what or where, the inhabitants could not determine ;
however, the town-watches in Boston, Charlestown,
Cambridge, See, were ordered to look well to the landing
places. About ten o'clock on the night of the 18th of
April, the Troops in Boston were discovered to be on the

move in a very secret manner, and it was found they were
embarking in boats (which they privately brought to the
place in the evening) at the bottom of the Common ; ex-
presses sat off immediately to alarm the country, that they
might be on their guard. When the expresses got about
a mile beyond Lexington, they were stopped by about
fourteen officers on horseback, who came out of Boston
in the afternoon of that day, and were seen lurking in
by-places in the country till after dark. One of the ex-
presses immediately fled, and was pursued two miles by an
officer, who, when he had got up with him, presented a
pistol, and told him he was a dead man if he did not stop ;
but he rode on until he came up to a house, when, stop-
ping of a sudden, his horse threw him off. Having the
presence of mind to halloo to the people in the house,
" Turn out ! turn out ! I have got one of them," the offi-
cer immediately retreated as fast as he had pursued. The
other express, after passing through a strict examination,
by some means got clear.

The body of the Troops in the mean time, under the
command of Lieutenant Colonel Smith, had crossed the
river, and landed at Phipps's farm. They immediately,
to the number of one thousand, proceeded to Lexniglon,
six miles below Concord, with great silence. A Company
of Militia, of about eighty men, mustered near the meeting-
house ; the Troops came in sight of them just before sun-
rise ; the Militia, upon seeing the Troops, began to dis-
perse ; the Troops then sat out upon the run, hallooing and
huzzaing, and coming within a few rods of them, the com-
manding officer accosted the Militia in words to this effect :
"Disperse, you damn'd rebels! damn you, disperse!"
Upon which the Troops again huzzaed, and immediately
one or two officers discharged their pistols, which were
instantaneously followed by the firing of four or five of the
soldiers, and then there seemed to be a general discharge
from the whole body. It is to be noticed they fired upon
our people as they were dispersing, agreeable to their com-
mand, and that we did not even return the fire ; eight of
our men were killed, and nine wounded. The Troops
then laughed, and damned the Yankees, and said they
could not bear the smell of gunpowder. A little after
this the Troops renewed their march to Concord, where,
when they arrived, they divided into parties, and went di-
rectly to several places where the Province stores were
deposited. Each party was supposed to have a tory pilot.
One party went into the jail yard, and spiked up and
otherwise damaged two cannon belonging to the Province,
and broke and set fire to the carriages. They then enter-
ed a store and rolled out about a hundred barrels of flour,
which they unheaded, and emptied about forty in the
river; at the same time others were entering houses and
shops, and unheading barrels, chests, &ic, the property of
private persons; some took possession of the Town-
House, to which they set fire, but was extinguished by our
people without much hurt. Another party of the Troops
went and took possession of the North bridge. About one
hundred and fifty Provincials, who mustered upon the
alarm, coming towards the bridge, the Troops fired upon
them without ceremony, and killed two upon the spot !
(Thus did the Troops of Britain's King fire first at two
several times upon his loyal American subjects, and put a
period to ten lives, before one gun was fired upon them.)
Our people then returned the fire, and obliged the Troops
to retreat, who were soon joined by their other parties, but
finding they were still pursued, the whole body retreated
back to Lexington, both Provincials and Troops firing as
they went. During this time an express from the Troops
was sent to General Gage, who, thereupon, sent out a
reinforcement of about fourteen hundred men, under the
command of Earl Percy, with two field-pieces.* Upon
the arrival of this reinforcement at Lexington, just as the
retreating party had got there, they made a stand, picked
up their dead, and took all the carriages they could find

* When the Second Brigade marched out of Boston to reinforce the
First, nothing was played by the Fifes and Drums but Yankee Doodle,
(which had become their favourite tune ever since that notable exploit,
which did such honour to the Troops of Britain's King, of tarring and
feathering a poor countryman in Boston, and parading with him
through the principal streets, under arms, with their bayonets fixed.
Upon their return to Boston, one asked his brother officer how he
liked the tune now ? " Damn them, (returned he,) they made us dance
it lill we were tired." Since which Yankee Doodle sounds less tweet
to their ears.

439

CORRESPONDENCE, PROCEEDINGS, &:c, APRIL, 1775.

410

and put their wounded thereon ; others of them, to their
eternal disgrace be it spoken, were robbing and setting
houses on lire, and discharging their cannon at the meet-
ing-house. Whilst they were thus employed, a number
of our people attacked a party of twelve of the enemy,
(carrying stores and provisions to the Troops,) killed one
of them, and took possession of their arms, stores, provi-
sions, Sec, without any loss on our side. The enemy
having halted about an hour at Lexington, found it neces-
sary to make a second retreat, carrying with them many of
their dead and wounded. They continued their retreat
front Lexington to Churlcstown with great precipitation;
our people continued the pursuit,* filing till they got to
Chariestoum Neck, (which they reached a little after sun-
set,) over which the enemy passed, proceeded up Bunker's
Hill, and the next day went into Boston under the pro-
tection of the Somerset Man-of- War of sixty-four guns.

A young man, unarmed, who was taken prisoner by the
enemy, and made to assist in carrying off their wounded,
says that he saw a barber who lives in Boston, thought to
be one Warden, with the Troops, and that he heard
them say he was one of their pilots. He likewise saw the
said barber fire twice upon our people, and heard Earl
Percy order the Troops to fire the houses. He also in-
ibrms that several officers were among the wounded who
were carried to Boston, where our informant was dismissed.
They took two of our men prisoners in battle, who are now
confined in barracks.

Immediately upon the return of the Troops to Boston,
all communication to and from the Town was stopped by
General Gage. The Provincials, who flew to the assist-
ance of their distressed countrymen, are posted in Cam-
bridge, Charlestown, Roxbury, Watertown, he, and have
placed guards on Roxbury Neck, within gun-shot of the
enemy ; guards are also placed every where in view of the
Town, to observe the motion of the King's Troops. The
council of war, and the different Committees of Safety and
Supplies set at Cambridge, and the Provincial Congress
at Watcrtown. The Troops in Boston are fortifying the
place on all sides, and a Frigate-of-War is stationed up
Cambridge River, and a sixty-four gun Ship between Bos-
ton and Charlestown.

Deacon Joseph Luring's house and barn, Mrs. Mulli-
k in's house' and shop, and Mr. Joshua Bond's house and
shop in Lexington, were all consumed. They also set fire
to several other houses, but our people extinguished the
flames. They pillaged almost every house they passed by,
breaking and destroying doors, windows, glasses, Sic, and
carrying off clothing and other valuable effects. It appear-
ed to be their design to burn and destroy all before them;
and nothing but our vigorous pursuit prevented their infer-
nal purposes from being put in execution. But the savage
barbarity exercised upon the bodies of our unfortunate
brethren who fell, is almost incredible. Not content with
shooting down the unarmed, aged, and infirm, they disre-
garded the cries of the wounded, killing them without
mercy, and mangling their bodies in the most shocking
manner.

We have the pleasure to say that, notwithstanding the
highest provocations given by the enemy, not one instance
of cruelty, that we have heard of, was committed by our
Militia ; but listening to the merciful dictates of the Christian
religion, they " breathed higher sentiments of humanity."

EXTRACTS FROM SEVERAL INTERCEPTED LETTERS OF THE
SOLPIERY IN BOSTON.

Boston, April 28, 1775.

I am well, all but the wound I received through the leg
by a ball from one of the Bostonians. At the time I

* An American Soldier, who had received a wound in Ilia breast in
pursuing General Q»g&$ Troops, on the 19th of April, supported his
body against a tree. A brother Soldier came up to him, and offered
him assistance. ** Pursue the enemy," said the wounded man. With
these words on his lips, he fell back and died.

A gentleman who travelled lately through Connecticut, informs us
that he met with an old gentlewoman, who told him that she had fitted
out and sent fivo sons and eleven grandsons to Boston, when she heard
of the engagement betwoon the Provincials and Regulars. The gen-
tleman asked her, if she did not shed a tear at parting with them ?
"No, (said she,) t niver parted with them with more pleasure." But
suppose, said the gentleman, they had all bees killed. "I had rather
(said tho noble matron) this had "been the case, than that one of them
had come back a coward."

wrote to you from Quebeck I had the strongest assurance
of going home, but the laying the tax on the New-Eng-
land people caused us to be ordered for Boston, where we
remained in peace with the inhabitants, till on the night of
the 18th of April twenty-one companies of Grenadiers
and Light-Infantry were ordered into the country about
eighteen miles, where, between four and five o'clock in the
morning, we met an incredible number of people of the
country in arms against us. Colonel Smith, of the Tenth
Regiment, ordered us to rush on them with our bayonets
fixed, at which time some of the peasants fired on us, and
our men returning the fire, the engagement begun. They
did not fight us like a regular army, only like savages,
behind trees and stone walls, and out of the woods and
houses, where in the latter, we killed numbers of them, as
well as in the woods and fields. The engagement began
between four and five in the morning, and lasted till eight
at night. I cannot be sure when you will get another
letter from me, as this extensive Continent is all in arms
against us. These people are very numerous, and full as
bad as the Indians for scalping and cutting the dead men's
ears and noses off, and those they get alive, that are
wounded, and cannot get off the ground.

Boston, April 28, 1775.
The Grenadiers and Light-Infantry marched for Con-
cord, where were powder and ball, arms, and cannon
mounted on carriages ; but before we could destroy them
all, we were fired on by the country people, who, not
brought up in our military way, as ourselves, we were sur-
rounded always in the woods. The firing was very hot on
both sides. About two in the afternoon the Second Bri-
gade came up, which were four Regiments and part of the
Artillery, which were of no use to us, as the enemy were
in the woods ; and when we found they fired from the
houses, we set them on fire, and they ran to the woods
like devils. We were obliged to retreat to Boston ag&in,
over Charles River, our ammunition being all fired away.
We had one hundred and fifty men wounded and killed,
and some taken prisoners ; we were forced to leave some
behind, who were wounded. We got back to Boston
about three o'clock next morning, and them that were able
to walk were forced to mount guard, and lie in the field.
1 never broke my fast for forty-eight hours, for we carried
no provisions, and thought to be back next morning. 1
had my hat shot off my head three times, two balls went
through my coat, and carried away my bayonet by my
side, and was near being killed. The people of Boston
are in great trouble, for General Gage will not let the
Town's people go out. Direct for me to Chatham's divi-
sion of Marines.

Boston, April 30, 1775.
Dear Parents : Before this reaches you, you may
hear that our regiment has been engaged with the Pro-
vincials. The Grenadiers and Light-Infantry marched
about nine at night. At six next morning four hundred
and twenty-three soldiers, and forty-seven marines, in all
fifteen hundred, marched to reinforce the Grenadiers and
Light-Infantry, joined about one o'clock, and found them
not engaged, which they had been eight hours before ; for
we had two pieces of cannon, which made us march slow.
As soon as we came up we fired the cannon, which brought
them from behind the trees, for we did not fight as you did
in Germany, as we could not see above ten in a body, for
they were behind trees and walls, and fired at us, and then
loaded on their bellies. We had thirty-six rounds, which
obliged us to go home that night, and as we came along
they got before us and fired at us out of the houses, and
killed and wounded a great many of us, but we levelled
their houses as we came along. It was thought there
were about six thousand at first, and at night double that
number. The King's Troops lost in killed and wounded
one hundred and fifty, and the Americans five hundred
men, women, and children, for there was a number of
women and children burnt in their houses. Our regiment
has five killed and thirty-one wounded, particularly Col-
onel Bernard in the thigh, which all the regiment is sorry
for. The shot flew thick. I got a wounded man's gun.
and killed two of them, as I am sure of. We have been
busy in fortifying the Town ever since we engaged, and in

441

CORRESPONDENCE, PROCEEDINGS, &c., APRIL, 11

442

a few days we expect a good many more Troops from
England, and then we shall surely burn the whole Coun-
try before us. if they do not submit, which I do not ima-
gine they will do, for they are an obstinate set of people.
Tell Bill if he comes to Boston he may have a wife in
every house he comes to, for the women are left at home
while the men go to fight the soldiers. They have formed
an army, and keep guard close to our works, so that our
centiies can talk together at ease. We were engaged from
six to six. The whole Country is in arms against us, and
they are headed by two of the Generals that headed our
army last war; their names are Ward and Putnam.
We have a great deal of shipping, but they are of little
service, only to cover the Town, cannon and Troops,
except the small schooners that go up in the creeks and
destroy them, which they have done many of them.
There is no market in Boston, the inhabitants all starv-
ing ; the soldiers live on salt provisions, and the officers
are supplied by the men-of-war cutters, who go up the
creeks and take live cattle and sheep wherever they
find them. We vex the Americans very much, by cut-
ting down their liberty poles and alarm posts. We have
had a great many died in our Regiment last winter, so that
what with wounded men, and what have deserted, we have
not three hundred men ; and duty is so hard that we come
off guard in the morning, and mount picket at night.

Boston, April 25, 1775.

Honoured Mother: The rebels, when we came to
Concord, burnt their stores, fired upon the King's Troops,
and a smart engagement ensued. About two o'clock our
Brigade came up to them, where we engaged and contin-
ued fighting and retreating towards Boston. The rebels
were monstrous numerous, and surrounded us on every
side ; when they came up we gave them a smart fire, but
they never would engage us properly. We killed some
hundreds and burnt some of their houses. 1 received a
wound in my head. The Troops are in Boston, and sur-
rounded on the land side by the rebels, who are very numer-
ous, and fully determined to lose their lives and fortunes,
rather than be taxed by England. We had thirty-four
killed and wounded ; 1 suppose the King's Troops in all
about one hundred and sixty. In case they take Boston,
the Troops will retire on board the Men-of-War, and then
the Men-of-War will burn the Town, and remain till more
Troops come from England, and then conquer them ; so
their estates and lives will be forfeited. There are only
four thousand soldiers, and about fifty or sixty thousand of
them.

Boston, May 2, 1775.

Loving Brothers and Sisters: The 19th of April
the engagement happened, and my husband was wounded
and taken prisoner, but they use him well, and I am striv-
ing to get to him, as he is very dangerous ; but it is almost
impossible to get out or in, or to get any thing, for we are
forced to live on salt provisions entirely, and they are
building batteries round the Town, and so are we, for we
are expecting them to storm us, and are expecting more
Troops every day. My husband is now lying in one of
their hospitals, at a place called Cambridge, and there are
now forty or fifty thousand of them gathered together, and
we are not four thousand at most. It is very troublesome
times, for we are expecting the Town to be burnt down
every day, and I believe we are sold ; and I hear my hus-
band's leg is broke, and my heart is broke.

A SERIOUS ADMONITION TO THE INHABITANTS OF WIL-
LIAMSBURGH.

Willianistmrgh, Va., April 29, 1775.

Friends and Fellow- Citizens :

Permit one who sincerely wishes the prosperity of his
Country, to address you on a subject of great importance,
which has engaged the attention of us all, though the effects
it has produced in our minds seem not to be of the same
impression.

Some, I find, consider the Govemour's ordering the
removal of the powder from the magazine an illegal act,
that as such it might be resisted ; and the rage of patrio-
tism has been carried so far as even to occasion a tumult
directed to that end. What the consequences might have

been, I tremble to think of; and earnestly congratulate
you, and my Country in general, that a stop has been put
to this scene of confusion by the virtuous and zealous in-
terposition of some of our worthy inhabitants. I feel par-
ticular pleasure, too, in reflecting, that those who, in an
unguarded moment were for carrying things the farthest,
have not yet advanced so far as to be impenetrable to the
still voice of reason. Though we had committed our uti-
ruddered bark to the mercy of a stormy ocean, we have
providentially recovered the firmer element, on which we
may tread in security and peace ; and here let us rest.

Anxious, my friends, for every thing which is necessary
to our welfare, suffer me to observe, that even admitting
the powder which was removed to have been purchased
by this Country, (a fact I do not pretend to be acquainted
with,) yet the money given for that purpose could be con-
stitutionally given only to the King. The powder must
therefore be under his direction, to be employed indeed for
the benefit of the Country ; but how, and in what manner,
as long as our Government exists, is in the discretion of
the King, or of his Representatives. It is true, Kings
have sometimes violated the most sacred trust, and in the
course of their Government have chose rather to build on
a discretionary power originating in themselves, than on
that fiduciary and limited authority which is derived from
the people. Instances of this sort we have had, and fatal
instances we have had too of the resentment of the peo-
ple on account of their abused rights ; but no man ac-
quainted with that part of our history will, in his cooler
moments, think it right to fly in an outrageous manner in
the face of Government, upon every occasion when there
may be real cause of complaint. A decent representa-
tion of grievances ought certainly to precede, and much,
very much, ought to be borne before the people can be
justified in resorting to their natural power, in the reclaim-
ing of which so much disorder and confusion must neces-
sarily arise.

How frantick, then, would it appear in us to think of
acting on the idea of reverted power, and of appealing to
Heaven upon no other inducement than the Govemour's
exertion of a right certainly vested in him by the Consti-
tution, which, for what we know, might have been neces-
sary to our welfare, and which, after the information his
Excellency has been pleased to give to the Corporation,
cannot, without the most causeless breach of good manners
to him as a man, and of that respect and decorum which
are due to him as our Governour, be conceived not to have
been so, at least in his Lordship's opinion.

Understanding, however, that though a stop has been
happily put to the commotions first occasioned by this affair,
there is still a leaven of discontent among a few of us.
which, without some seasonable address, might possibly
spread, and breakout into fresh disorder; I hope it will be
taken in good part that I thus venture to commit my
sentiments to the examination of every friend of order.

I beg leave to conclude by observing, that whatever
opinions we may hold with respect to the British Parlia-
ment, I have never yet heard it doubted, whether we are
not bound to the King by the most sacred tie of allegiance :
and I trust we shall all join hand and heart in proving our-
selves, as we have always hitherto been, among the most
loyal of his subjects. Civis.

OFFICERS OF ALBEMARLE VOLUNTEERS TO COLONEL
GEORGE WASHINGTON.

Charlottesville. April 29. 1775.

Sir: The County of Albemarle in general, and the
Gentlemen Volunteers in particidar, are truly alarmed and •
highly incensed with the unjustifiable proceedings of Lord
Dunmore, who, we are informed, has clandestinely taken
possession of our ammunition lodged in the Magazine.
We should have attended at Fredericksburg It, in order to
have proceeded to Williamsburgh to demand a return of
the powder, had the alarm readied us before an account
of security being given for its delivery. However, to as-
sure you and the world of our readiness and willingness to
resent any encroachment of arbitrary power, we now de-
clare to you, should it be necessary, that the First Com-
pany of Independents for Albemarle will attend in Wil-
liamsburgh, properly equipped, and prepared to enforce an

443

CORRESPONDENCE, PROCEEDINGS, &c, APRIL, 1775.

444

immediate delivery of the powder, (if not to be obtained
otherwise) or die in the attempt. With respect, we re-
main ready to obey your commands.

Charles Lewis, Captain.
George Gilmer, Lieutenant,
John Marks, Second Lieutenant.

P. S. The Company will stand under arms all day on
Tuesday waiting your answer.

FREDERICKSBURG!! (VIRGINIA) COMMITTEE.

Saturday, April 29, 1775.

At a Council of one hundred and two Members, Dele-
gates of the Provincial Convention, Officers, and special
Deputies of fourteen Companies of Light-Horse, consist-
ing of upwards of six hundred well-armed and disciplined
men, friends of Constitutional Liberty and America, now
rendezvoused here in consequence of an alarm occasioned
by the Powder being removed from the County Magazine,
in the City of Wittiamsburgh , in the night of Thursday the
21st instant, and deposited on board an armed Schooner,
by order of his Excellency the Governour :

The Council having before them the several matters of
intelligence respecting this transaction, and particularly a
Letter from the Honourable Peyton Randolph, Esquire,
Speaker of the late House of Burgesses of Virginia, re-
ceived here last night by an express despatched to Wil-
Hamsburgh for the purpose of gaining intelligence, inform-
ing that the gentlemen of the City of Wittiamsburgh and
neighbourhood have had full assurance from his Excellency
that this affair will be accommodated, and advising that the
gentlemen assembled here should proceed no further at this
time. This Council came to the following determination,
and offer the same as their advice to those publick spirited
gentlemen, friends to British Liberty and America, who
have honoured them by this appointment : Highly con-
demning the conduct of the Governour on this occasion, as
impolitick, and justly alarming to the good people of this
Colony, tending to destroy all confidence in Government,
and to widen the unhappy breach between Great Britain
and her Colonies, ill-timed and totally unnecessary, con-
sider this instance as a full proof, that no opinion which
may be formed of the good intentions of a Governour in
private life, can afford security to our injured and oppressed
Country ; but that obedience to arbitrary and ministerial
mandates, and the most tyrannical and oppressive system
of Government, must be the fatal line of conduct of all His
Majesty's present servants in America. At the same time
justly dreading the horrours of a civil war, influenced by mo-
tives of the strongest affection to our fellow-subjects of Great
Britain, most ardently wishing to heal our mutual wounds,
and therefore preferring peaceable measures, whilst the
least hope of reconciliation remains, do advise that the
several companies now rendezvoused here do return to
their respective homes ; but considering the just rights and
liberty of America to be greatly endangered by the violent
and hostile proceedings of an arbitrary Ministry, and being
firmly resolved to resist such attempts at the utmost hazard
of our lives and fortunes, we do now pledge ourselves to
each other to be in readiness, at a moment's warning, to
reassemble, and by force of arms, to defend the Law, the
Liberty, and Rights of this or any sister Colony, from un-
just and wicked invasion.

Ordered, That expresses be despatched to the Troops
assembled at the Bowling Green, and also to the Compa-
nies from Frederick, Berkley, Dunmore, and such other
Counties as are now on their march, to return them thanks
for their cheerful offer of service, and to acquaint them
with the determination now taken.

God save the Liberties of America.

The foregoing Determination of Council having been
read at the head of each Company, was cordially and
unanimously approved.

JOHN DICKINSON TO ARTHUR LEE.

Fairhill, April 29, 1775.

Dear Sir : The " immcdicabile vulnus" is at length

struck. The rescript to our Petition is written in blood.

The impious war of tyranny against innocence has com-
menced in the neighbourhood of Boston.

We have not yet received any authentick accounts, but
I will briefly mention the most material parts of the rela-
tions that have reached us.

General Gage having lately received despatches from
England, gave orders on Saturday, the 15th of this month,
that the Grenadiers and Light-Infantry should be excused
from duty until further orders. Some of the inhabitants of
the Town being alarmed by this circumstance, observed
between ten and eleven o'clock on Tuesday night follow-
ing, those bodies to be moving with great silence towards
that water which is usually crossed in going to Cambridge.
Notice of this movement was immediately conveyed into
the country. The Troops mentioned embarked in boats,
and landed at Cambridge, about four or five miles from
Boston. From thence they marched, on Wednesday the
19th, in the morning, to Lexington, about twelve miles
from Boston. At this place they found some Provincials
exercising. The commander of the party ordered them
to disperse. They did not. One of them said he was on
his own ground ; that they injured no person, and could
not hurt any one, for they had no ammunition with them.
The word was given, and the brave Britons, emulating no
doubt the glorious achievements of their ancestors, gallantly
gave fire upon those who were exercising, killed some, and
put the rest to flight. This victory was gained by the
Grenadiers and Light-Infantry, without the assistance of
any other corps, though their numbers, it .is said, did not
exceed a thousand, and the Provincials amounted to at
least, as it is reported, twenty-five or thirty men !

From Lexington the victors pursued their march to Con-
cord, about twenty miles from Boston, where they destroy-
ed a small Magazine, and set fire to the Court-House. By
this time two or three hundred of the inhabitants were col-
lected, and an engagement began. The Troops soon re-
treated, and lost two pieces of cannon, which they had
seized.

General Gage receiving intelligence of this engagement,
or of the murder at Lexington, between eight and nine
o'clock on Wednesday morning, sent out a Brigade under
Lord Percy, consisting of the Marines, the Welsh Fusileers,
the fourth, thirty-eighth, and forty-seventh Regiments, with
two field-pieces. The Grenadiers and Light-Infantry,
still retreating, met his Lordship advancing to their relief:
but the place of meeting is uncertain, supposed to be about
five or six miles from Boston. The numbers of the coun-
try people being also now increased, a very warm contest
ensued. The Provincials fought as desperate men. The
Regulars bore the attack awhile, still retreating, but at
length broke, and retired in the utmost confusion to a hill
called Bunker's Hill, not far from Charlestown, which place
is situated opposite to Boston, on the other side of Charles
River. About a mile from the hill, one vessel-of-war, if
not more, was stationed to cover the retreat into Charles-
town down to the water-side, in order to pass over to Bos-
ton. In the retreat of this one mile, it is said the Regulars
lost twelve officers and two hundred privates. The Pro-
vincials, afraid of the shipping's firing on Charlestown, and
of hurting the Town's people, stopped the pursuit.

On the whole, the accounts say the Regulars had about
five hundred men killed, and many are wounded and pri-
soners. The advices by several expresses are positive, that
Lord Percy is killed, which gives great and general grief
here, and also General Haldimand, the two first in com-
mand ; that a wagon loaded with powder and ball, another
with provisions, and the field-pieces attending the rein-
forcement, are taken. It is added that a party of three
hundred sent out to Marshfield, are cut off and taken to a
man. Several letters from Boston mention that the offi-
cers returned there, several of whom are wounded, declare
they never were in hotter service. The whole of the fight
lasted about seven hours. Part of it was seen from the
hill in Boston.

I cannot say 1 am convinced of the truth of all the par-
ticulars above-mentioned, though some of them are sup-
ported by many probabilities. But these facts I believe
you may depend on : that this most unnatural and inexpressi-
bly cruel war began with the butchery of the unarmed
Americans at Lexington; that the Provincials, incredible
as it may be at St. James or St. Stephen's, fought bravely ;
that the Regulars have been defeated with considerable
slaughter, though they behaved resolutely ; that a Tory

445

CORRESPONDENCE, PROCEEDINGS, kc, APRIL, ]"■

446

dare not open his mouth against the cause of America,
even at JSexv-York ; that the Continent is preparing most
assiduously for a vigorous resistance ; and that freedom, or
an honourable death, are the only objects on which their
souls are at present employed.

What human policy can divine the prudence of precipi-
tating us into these shocking scenes ? Why have we rashly
been declared rebels? Why have directions been sent to
disarm us? Why orders to commence hostilities? Why
was not General Gage at least restrained from hostilities
until the sense of another Congress could be collected ? It
was the determined resolution of some, already appointed
Delegates for it, to have strained every nerve at that meet-
ing to attempt bringing the unhappy dispute to terms of
accommodation, safe for the Colonies, and honourable and
advantageous for our Mother Country, in whose prosperity
and glory our hearts take as large a share as any Minister's
of State, and from as just and as generous motives, to say
no more of them.

But what topicks of reconciliation are now left for men
who think as I do, to address our countrymen ? To recom-
mend reverence for the Monarch, or affection for the Mo-
ther Country ? Will the distinctions between the Prince
and his Ministers, between the People and their Repre-
sentatives, wipe out the stain of blood ? Or have we the
slightest reason to hope that those Ministers and Repre-
sentatives will not be supported throughout the tragedy, as
they have been through the first act ? No. While we re-
vere and love our Mother Country, her sword is opening
our veins. The same delusions will still prevail, till France
and Spain, if not other Powers, long jealous of Britain's
force and fame, will fall upon her, embarrassed with an ex-
hausting civil war, and crush, or at least depress her; then
turn their arms on these Provinces, which must submit to
wear their chains, or wade through seas of blood to a dear-
bought and at best a frequently convulsed and precarious
independence.

All the ministerial intelligence concerning us is false.
We are a united, resolved people ; are, or quickly shall be,
well armed and disciplined ; our smiths and powder-mills
are at work day and night; our supplies from foreign parts
continually arriving. Good officers, that is, well-expe-
rienced ones, we shall soon have, and the Navy of Great
Britain cannot stop our whole trade. Our Towns are but
brick and stone, and mortar and wood ; they, perhaps, may
be destroyed ; they are only the hairs of our heads ; if
sheared ever so close, they will grow again. We compare
them not with our rights and liberties. We worship as our
fathers worshipped, not idols which our hands have made.

I am, dear Sir, your sincerely affectionate friend,

John Dickinson.

New- York, April 29, 1775.
The following publication, under the initial letters of my
name, having appeared in an English Paper of the 27th
of January, I take this opportunity to declare that it is al-
together a malicious forgery, calculated to inflame the
minds of my countrymen, and expose me to undeserved
suspicion and distrust. Oliver De Lancev.

" The following is a copy of a Letter written by O . . . .r
De L .... i to a person high in Administration :
" Sir: The Resolutions of the Congress will never be
observed; the Delegates themselves are a-hamed of them,
and many are studying ways to elude them. The people
attached to Government, Sir, in this City, laugh at their
Resolutions, and the most flaming zealots despise them-
selves for passing them. On occasion of the Stamp Act
confederacies were formed, which treachery among them-
selves soon put an end to. There cannot be a doubt, Sir,
but a similar defection will soon show how little may be de-
pended on from the Resolutions of the Congress. In such
defection this City will take the lead, and in which my in-
fluence shall be exerted, and may be relied on. Five of
the Provinces are already preparing to violate their Reso-
lutions.

" I beg leave to say that Government are extremely mis-
taken, if they are alarmed at a Congress like that at Phil-
adelphia. I was born in this City, and am well acquainted
with the other Colonies, from whose opposition Govern-
ment has nothing to fear, except from hew-England ; and

as a dutiful subject to the Crown, I hope that they will
meet a punishment suitable to their rebellion. This Prov-
ince of New- York and Pennsylvania are most attached to
the Crown and Parliament ; and to the keeping them so,
I hope I have some merit, together with my relations and
connexions, of whom many are in the Assembly and Coun-
cil ; but notwithstanding, I would advise the keeping two
Regiments here. I was not in Town when the packet
arrived. Your favour I shall have the honour to answer per
next opportunity. The Deputies from this City in the
Congress were some of the meanest of the people.

" New-York, D3C3mber 3, 1774."

At Mr. De Lancey's request, we have perused several
Letters from him to persons in England, which he declared
to us upon his honour were all he had written on political
subjects during the present disturbances. These Letters,
far from exciting violent measures against America, are cal-
culated to discourage all hostile proceedings, and represent
the Colonies as firmly resolved to submit to no Parliament-
ary taxation. James Duane,

John Jay.

New-York, April 29, 1775.

TO THE PUBLICK.

Westchester County, New- York, April 29, 1775.

We, the subscribers, do hereby make this publick dec-
laration : That whereas we and several others in Westches-
ter County, having signed a certain number of Resolves,
which, at the time of our said signing, we deemed consti-
tutional, and as having a tendency to promote the interest
of our Country ; but since, upon mature deliberation and
more full knowledge of the matter, find not only injurious
to our present cause, but likewise offensive to our fellow-
Colonists : We do therefore thus publickly testify our ab-
horrence of the same, and declare ourselves friends to the
Colonies, and ever ready cheerfully to exert ourselves in
the defence and preservation of the same.

Jonathan Fowler, Esquire,
George Cornwell, Esquire.

letter from the committee of boston.

Boston, April 29, 1775.

Sir : We wrote you yesterday, and were in hopes of an
answer, more especially as we find you have this day wrote
a letter to Town, part of which has been communicated to
the Committee, upon which we beg leave to observe, that
it is very desirable to us that you would comply with our
request of making proclamation or notification to such per-
sons as may incline to come into Boston with their effects,
as it must expedite the removal of our inhabitants, with
their effects, from the Town of Boston; but to determine
how many days will be necessary to effect this removal, is
utterly impracticable. Those persons who are here from
the country, and have left their effects behind, we desire
may be permitted to send their servants to put them up
and convey them to Boston without molestation ; and that
the Selectmen may be informed to whom they ma)' direct
such persons to apply for permits.

You will receive this by the hands of Mr. Payne, who,
being one of the Committee, we refer you to him for more
particular information. We are, very respectfully, your
most humble servants,

John Scollay, Saml. Austin,

Ezek. Goldthwait, Edwd. Payne,
Thos. Marshall, John Pitts.

To Doctor Joseph Warren, Chairman of the Committee of
Congress.

letter from the committee of safety to the com-
mittees OF THE SEVERAL TOWNS.

Cambridge, April 29, 1775.

Gentlemen : As many of the persons now in camp
came from their respective Towns, without any expecta-
tion of tarrying any time, and are now under the necessity
of returning, this is to desire that you would, with the
utmost haste, send other persons to supply their places
for a few days, until the enlistments are complete, and the
men sent down to us. We pray you immediately to set
about this business, as the most fatal consequences must

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CORRESPONDENCE, PROCEEDINGS, &c, APRIL, 1775.

448

follow, if we should be reduced to so weak a state as that
\iniy under Genera] Gage may be able to issue out of
the Town, and spread destruction through this Country,
and we think none can be unwilling to come for a lew days
to relieve their brethren, who have been absent from their
families. We are, Sic.

COMMITTEE OF SAFETY TO THE SEVERAL TOWNS IN MASSA-
CHUSETTS.

Cambridge, April 29, 1775.

One half of the Militia and Minute-Men in your Town
are hereby ordered forthwith to march to the Town of
. , as we have information that General Gage
designs speedily to sally out of the Town of Boston with
a detachment of his Army. You are therefore not to lose
one moment's time, but come instantly to the support of
your brethren, and the half to hold themselves in com-
plete readiness to march upon the slightest notice.
We are, &,c.

establishing regular armies throughout the Continent on
pay. If such a thing should take place, there is not the
li-ast doubt that you will have the command of the whole
forces in this Colony. In that case, 1 shall ever esteem
you as my best friend, if you will use your interest in pro-
curing me a commission ; or, should the power of appoint-
ing officers be vested in you, and you should think proper
to confer so great an honour on me, as qualifying me to be
one of your officers, you will find me, as I have always
been, ready to serve my Country gratis in the glorious
cause of Jiberty, at the risk of my life and fortune.

I am extremely glad to inform you, that, after a long
debate, it was at last agreed we should not march to Wil-
liamsburgh. I am, with respect, &tc.

Alexander Spotswood.

SAMUEL THOMPSON TO THE COMMITTEE OF SAFETY.
Brunswick, Maine, April 29, 1775.

I this minute have an opportunity to inform you of the
state of our affairs at the eastward, that we are all staunch
for country, except three men, and one of them is de-
serted. The other two are in irons. As for the vessels
■which attempted to convey stuff to our enemies, are stop-
ped, and 1 am about to move about two hundred of white
pine masts and other stuff got for our enemies' use. Sir,
having heard of the cruel murders they have done in our
Province makes us more resolute than ever ; and finding
that the sword is drawn first on their side, that we shall be
animated with that noble spirit that wise men ought to be,
until our just rights and liberties are secured to us. Sir,
my heart is with every true son of America, though my
person can be in but one place at once, though very soon
I hope to be with you on the spot. If any of my friends
inquire after me, inform them that I make it my whole
business to pursue those measures recommended by the
Congresses. We being upon the sea-coast, and in danger
of being invaded by pirates, as on the 27th instant, there
was a boat or barge came into our harbour and river, and
sounding as they went up the river.

Sir, as powder and guns are wanted in this eastern part,
and also provisions, pray Sir, have you thought something
on this matter against 1 arrive, which will be as soon as
business will admit. Sir, I am, with the greatest regard
to the country, at heart your ready friend and humble
servant, Samuel Thompson.

MEETING OF THE INHABITANTS OF LONDONDERRY, NEW-
HAMPSHIRE.

At a Meeting of the Inhabitants of Londonderry, on
the 29th of April, Colonel Stephen Holland, personally
appeared and made the following Declaration, upon which
the inhabitants of said Town voted unanimously, that it
was satisfactory to them for his past conduct.

Attest: John Bell, Town Clerk.

" Whereas through mistake, misunderstanding, misrepre-
sentation, or for reasons unknown to me, I am represent-
ed an enemy to my Country : to satisfy the publick, I
solemnly declare I never aided or assisted any enemy
to my Country in any thing whatsoever; and that I
make this Declaration not out of fear of any thing I may
suffer, but because it gives me the greatest uneasiness to
think that the true sons of liberty, and real friends to
their Country, (from any of the first mentioned reasons,)
should believe me capable so much as in thought of injur-
ing or betraying my Country, when the truth is, I am
ready to assist my countrymen in the glorious cause of
liberty, at the risk of my life and fortune.

" Stephen Holland.

" Londonderry, April 29, 1775."

ALEXANDER SPOTSWOOD TO COL. GEORGE WASHINGTON.

Frederickeburgh, April 30, 1775.
Sir: It is imagined, that the first thing which will come
on the carpet at the meeting of Congress, will be that of

TO THE RESPECTABLE PUBLICK.

New-York, April 30, 1775.
Johannes Sleght, Chairman of the Committee of Ulster
County, has published me as an enemy to my Country
for selling Tea, in which is set forth, that all the Mer-
chants and Skippers had signed articles, in which they
agreed not to sell Tea. This is absolutely false, for there
are more which have not signed for the very reasons I had,
and the Committee knew that they had not all signed at
the time of publishing this piece of malice. It is known in
Kingston, that I was for maintaining the Association, and
that I offered to sign the third article, which I would abide
by, but that the Committee would not agree to it ; more-
over, that the Committee in New-York had determined
that no Tea should be sold, and that I would quit selling
it. It was reported by one of the members of the Com-
mittee, on the day of meeting, that he had purchased Tea
at my house. Johannes Sleght continued drinking Tea
after the 1st of March, in direct violation of the Associa-
tion ; and John Beekman did confess at the meeting, that
he had a quantity of Tea, and intended that it should be
made use of in his family, contrary to the Association.
This I could not but consider as a great piece of chicanery,
that the sale of Tea should be prohibited, and others declare
that they would continue to use it in their families, when
the Association expressly mentions, that they shall not
purchase nor use it. I told those gentlemen that I would
refer the matter to the consideration of the Committee at
New-York, and would firmly adhere to their explanation
of the third article of the Association, which I must con-
fess I did not think prohibited the selling of Tea, and that
the Non-Consumption Agreement was only intended to
preserve the Non-Importation Agreement. The report
that I am unfriendly to the cause of liberty, and had given
an affront to the Committee of New- York, is a most vil-
lanous falsehood. And as it is agreed upon by the well
wishers of American liberty, not to purchase nor use any
Tea in their families, I am determined to abide by such their
agreement. Jacobus Low.

LETTER FROM A GENTLEMAN NOW AT NEW-YORK TO THE
COMMITTEE OF CORRESPONDENCE IN PORTSMOUTH, NEW-
HAMPSHIRE, DATED APRIL 30, 1775.

Gentlemen : At this time of general confusion through
the Colonies, nothing can give greater pleasure to every
well-wisher to his Country, than the unanimity that takes
place through the Continent, more especially at this City ;
as it is evident (from a number of private letters from Lon-
don) that Administration have put the greatest dependance
on the Yorkers breaking with the other Colonies. But not-
withstanding all the endeavours of designing men, I have
the pleasure to inform you, that by the notable struggles of
the sons of freedom, all difficulties are surmounted, and
nothing can equal the determined spirit of the people
here. Yesterday about six or seven thousand men were
out on the plain, among whom were some families who
have been in the opposition ; one and all unanimously voted
to defend their liberties, &c, at all hazards. They have
stopped clearing to the Custom-House, have taken all the
city arms and ammunition from the Hall and Magazine ;
every preparation is making to completely arm the inhabi-
tants ; great numbers of people are employed hauling the
cannon from the City to King's bridge, about fourteen

449

CORRESPONDENCE, PROCEEDINGS, &c, APRIL, 1775.

450

miles, where tliey will immediately intrench. All denomi-
nations are under arms, and in high spirits. It is the
opinion of almost every one in this place that the Acts
of Parliament would have been repealed, had it not been
for the encouragement given Administration by this place,
that the Colonies would break their union. No people can
be more despised, nor more frightened than those here
who have been inimical to their Country, particularly the
eleven Members of the House. Mr. Rivington has made
a recantation ; President Cooper has decamped ; and it was
with much difficulty the people were prevented from taking
the lives of those who they have considered as traitors to
their Country. All Government seems to be laid aside.
The City is now to be regulated by a Committee of Safety,
consisting of one hundred worthy men. Though there
was a number of large vessels, loaded with wheat and flour,
and cleared out, and many partly loaded ... It was
nobly done ; immediately stopt every vessel. The Neio-
England men are held in the highest esteem for their
bravery, and people here are determined to supply provi-
sions, and march to their assistance when called for. The
die is thrown, and every man of us, whether we are hearty in
the cause or not, must abide by the cast ; and as we are all
considered as rebels, (not by the Nation, but by a . . .
Ministry,) let us one and all (which they are determined
on this way) stand forth boldly ; which will most cer-
tainly, under God, insure us success, and that soon.

TO GOVERNOUR TRUMBULL.

Killingsworth, April 30, 1775. )
Nine o'clock, P. M. $

Sir : This moment Captain Caldwell came over to me
from Guildford, where I have a vessel loaded for the West-
Indies, having all her cargo on board, consisting of forty
thousand lumber, twenty-three oxen, and one horse, hav-
ing on board no provisions but for the use of said vessel,
which was cleared at the Custom-House on the twenty-
fourth instant, and informed me that the honourable Gene-
ral Assembly have embargoed all vessels bound to the
f Vest- Indies with stock and other provisions. As I have
the good of my Country at heart, and pay the greatest re-
gard to the resolves and determinations of the Legislature
of this Colony, I would by no means do any thing that
should have the remotest appearance of acting counter to
their determinations ; but your Honour must be sensible
the unshipping my cattle and stores must be attended with
great loss, as the stock is by no means fit for a present
market. I humbly request my said vessel may be per-
mitted to sail, as I had not the least suspicion of an em-
bargo, and have only waited several days for a wind. I
would have waited myself on your Honour, but my pre-
sent indisposition would not permit ; and for the purpose
of obtaining permission, my son now waits on your Honour,
on whose goodness I greatly rely ; and am your Honour's
most obedient and most humble servant,

Theophilus Morgan.

General Assombly, April, 1775. I
In the Upper House. $

His Honour the Governour is desired to grant a permit
to Mr. Theophilus Morgan, that his vessel may proceed
on its voyage according to the request in the within letter.
Test : George Wyllys, Secretary.

Concurred in in the Lower House.

Test: Richard Law, Clerk.

committee or SAFETY to the selectmen of boston.

Cambridge, April 30, 1775.

Gentlemen : Enclosed you have a Resolve of Con-
gress, which we hope will remove every obstacle to the re-
moval of our friends from Boston. The necessity of going
from this Town to Watertown, in order to lay the propo-
sals of this Committee before the Provincial Congress, we
hope will suggest to you an apology for any supposed de-
lav. But be assured that no person now in Boston is more
sensible of the distress, nor more desirous of relieving our
brethren there, than the members of this Committee. En-
couragement will be given to-morrow to the wagoners in
the country, to repair to Boston to give all possible assist-

Fourth Series. — Vol. ii.

ance to our friends, in the removal of their effects. 1
wrote yesterday to General Gage upon the subject, and re-
quested him to take into consideration the expediency of
restraining the country from sending in more than thirty
wagons at one time, but I have received no answer. If I
should receive any, the contents, so far as they respect my
ever-adored Town of Boston, shall be communicated to
you. We are, &c.

TO THE COMMITTEE OF SAFETY FOR MASSACHUSETTS.

Portsmouth, New-Hampshire, April 30, 1775.

There is much probability that the last mail from Eng-
land for General Gage passed through Northampton, east-
ward or northward, yesterday about twelve o'clock. It may-
be that it may pass up the river as far as Northfield, be-
fore it steers its course from the sea-shore. Probably its
direction may be to Portsmouth or Salem. No one will
judge that it will attempt to enter Boston directly. No
doubt the bearer will be several times shifted before its
arrival to the place of destination. The people of North-
ampton yesterday knew nothing that there was any suspi-
cion of the mail's passing by land. The circumstances
which make up the evidence that a traveller who passed
this Town yesterday was the bearer of the mail, are too
many to be mentioned. He undoubtedly came from Hud-
son's River to Northampton, whether in a direct or oblique
course, is not yet made certain. The suspected bearer,
who was at Northampton, does not altogether answer the
description given in the New- York letter of the probable
bearer from them, but many think it more likely that they
would attempt to get the mail along by some acquainted
up the river, in the County of Cumberland, than by
Oliver He Lancey, Jun.

Quere. Whether it is not expedient to search every sus-
picious person passing as far northward as any road leading
from Connecticut River to Portsmouth.

BENEDICT ARNOLD TO THE MASSACHUSETTS COMMITTEE
OF SAFETY.

Cambridge, April 30, 1775.

Gentlemen : You have desired me to state the number
of cannon, &c, at Ticonderoga. I have certain informa-
tion that there are at Ticonderoga eighty pieces of heavy
cannon, twenty brass guns, from four to eighteen pound-
ers, and ten to twelve large mortars. At Skenesborough,
on the South-Bay, there are three or four brass cannon.
The Fort is in a ruinous condition, and has not more than
fifty men at the most. There are large numbers of small
arms, and considerable stores, and a sloop of seventy or
eighty tons on the lake. The place could not hold out an
hour against a vigorous onset. Your most obedient ser-
vant, Benedict Arnold.
Honourable Joseph Warren, and the honourable Committee

of Safety.

MASSACHUSETTS COMMITTEE OF SAFETY TO NEW-YORK
COMMITTEE.

Cambridge, April 30, 1775.

It has been proposed to us to take possession of the For-
tress at Ticonderoga. We have a just sense of the im-
portance of that fortification, and the usefulness of those
fine cannon, mortars, and field-pieces which are there ; but
we would not, even upon this emergency, infringe upon the
rights of our sister Colony, New-York. But we have de-
sired the gentleman, who carries this letter, to represent
the matter to you, that you may give such orders as are
agreeable to you.

We are, with the greatest respect, your most obedient
servants, Joseph Warren, Chairman.

To Alexander McDougall.

MEETING OF FREEHOLDERS OF KING WILLIAM COUNTY.
VIRGINIA.

At a meeting of the Freeholders of the County of King
William, at the Court-House, on Monday the first of May,
Carter Braxton and ll'illiuin Ayletl, Esquires, were unani-
mously chosen their Delegates to represent them in Con-
vention for one year, from the date hereof.

29

451

PENNSYLVANIA ASSEMBLY, MAY, 1775.

452

A subscription being then opened for the relief of our
brethren in Massachusetts-Bay, ami it bung thought highly
necessary, at this important crisis, that supplies should be
sent to them, and money being the only means by which

that relief could be afforded with certainty, the sum of one
hundred and seventy-five Pounds was immediately contri-
buted, and it is expected that a much larger sum will be
given, when collections are made from the whole County.

PENNSYLVANIA ASSEMBLY.

Monday, May 1, 1775.

The House met pursuant to their adjournment.

Ordered, That Mr. Gray and Mr. Hillcgas wait on the
Govemour, and acquaint him that a quorum of the Repre-
sentatives being met, they are ready to receive any busi-
ness his Honour may be pleased to lay before them.

Mr. Charles Thomson laid before the House a Letter
from William Bollan, Benjamin Franklin, and Arthur
Lee, Esquires, dated London, February 5, 1775, which
was read by order, and is as follows, viz :

Sir: Our last letter informed you that the King had
declared his intention of laying the Petition before his two
Houses of Parliament. It has accordingly been laid before
each House, but undistinguished among a variety of letters
and other papers from America.

A motion made by Lord Chatham, to withdraw the
Troops from Boston, as the first step towards a conciliating
plan, was rejected ; and the Ministry have declared, in both
Houses, the determination to enforce obedience to all the
late laws. For this purpose, we understand that three
Regiments of Foot, one of Dragoons, seven hundred Ma-
rines, six Sloops-of-War and two Frigates, are now under
orders for America.

We think it proper to inform you that your cause was
weir defended by a considerable number of good and wise
men in both Houses of Parliament, though far from being
a majority, and that many of the commercial and manufac-
turing parts of the Nation, concerned in the American
Trade, have presented, or, as we understand, are preparing
to present Petitions to Parliament, declaring their great
concern for the present unhappy controversies with America,
and praying expressly, or in effect, for healing measures, as
the proper means of preserving their commerce, now greatly
suffering or endangered. But the treatment the Petitions
already presented have hitherto received, is such as, in our
opinion, can afford you no reliance on any present relief
through their means.

As soon as we learned that the Petition of the Congress
was before the House of Commons, we thought it our duty
to support it, if we might be permitted so to do, as there
was no other opportunity for the numerous inhabitants of
the Colonies to be heard in defence of their rights. Ac-
cordingly we joined in a Petition for that purpose. Sir
George Savile kindly undertook to present it, but on pre-
viously opening the purport of it, as the order is, a debate
arose on the propriety of receiving it, and, on a division,
it was rejected by a great majority.

The following extract of a letter from General Gage to
Lord Dartmouth, as laid before Parliament, we think it our
duty to transmit, viz :

" December 15, 1774. — Your Lordship's idea of disarm-
ing certain Provinces would doubtless be consistent with
prudence and safety, but it neither is, nor has been practi-
cable, without having recourse to force, and being masters
of the Country."

It was thrown out in debate by a principal member of
Administration, that it would be proper to alter the Charters
of Connecticut and Rhode-Island.

Enclosed we send you a copy of the Resolutions passed
in a Committee of the Whole House on 7'hursday last,
which are to be reported on Monday.* It is said that these

* That it is the opinion of this Committee, that an humble Address
be prosouted to His Majesty, to return His Majesty our most bumble
thanks for having been most graciously pleased to communicate to this
House the several papers relating to tin: present state- of the BritM
Colonies in America, which, by His Majesty's commands, have been
laid before this House, and from which, after taking them into our most
serious consideration, we find that a part of His .Majesty's subjects, in
the Province of tho Massachuset ts-limj, have proceeded so far to resist
the authority of the Supreme Legislature, that a rebellion at this time
actually exists within the said Province, and we see, with tho utmost
concern, that they bave bees countenanced and encouraged by unlawful
combinationa and engagements, entered bate by His Maj tsty's subjects
in several of the other Colonies, to the injury and oppression of many
of thoir innocent fetlow-subjects, resident withiu the Kingdom of Great

Resolutions are to be the foundation of several Bills to be
brought in ; but the purport of these Bills we have not yet
learned with sufficient certainty.

We send you likewise a copy of Lord Chatham's first
motion in the House of Lords, and of his plan of a Bill for
settling the troubles between Britain and her Colonies,
both which were rejected on the first reading.

With great respect, we are, Sir, your most obedient hum-
ble servants, Wm. Bollan,

B. Franklin,
Arthur Lee."

The Members appointed to wait on the Govemour
with the Message of the House, reported they had de-
livered the same according to order, and that his Honour
was pleased to say he should lay some business before the
House shortly.

The House adjourned to ten o'clock to-morrow morning.

May 2, 1775. — The House met pursuant to adjourn-
ment.

The Govemour, by Mr. Secretary, sent down a written
Message to the House, together with a copy of a Resolu-
tion of the House of Commons, passed the 20th of Feb-
ruary last, which were read by order, and are as they
respectively follow, viz:

A Message from the Governour to the Assembly.
Gentlemen : I have ordered the Secretary to lay before
you a Resolution! entered into by the British House of

Britain and the rest of His Majesty's Dominions. This conduct, on
their part, appears to us the more inoxcusable, when we consider with
how much temper His Majesty and the two Houses of Parliament have
acted in support of the laws and Constitution of Great Britain. To
declare that we can nover so far desert the trust reposed in us as to re-
linquish any part of the sovereign authority over all His Majesty's
Dominions, which by law is vested in His Majesty and the two Houses
of Parliament, and that the conduct of many persons in several of the
Colonies during the late disturbances, is alone sufficient to convince us
how necessary this power is for the protection of the lives and fortunes
of all His Majesty's subjects ; that we ever have been, and always shall
be, ready to pay attention and regard to any real grievances of any of
His Majesty's subjects, which shall, in a dutiful and constitutional
manner, be laid before us ; and whenever any of the Colonies shall make
a proper application to us, we shall be ready to afford them every just
and reasonable indulgence ; but that at the same time we consider it as
our indispensable duty, humbly to beseech His Majesty that His Ma.
jesty will take the most offectual measures to enforce due obedience to
the laws and authority of the Supreme Legislature; and that we beg
leave, in the most solemn manner, to assure His Majesty, that it is our
fixed resolution, at the hazard of our lives and properties, to stand by
His Majosty against all rebellious attempts in the maintenance of the
just rights of His Majesty and the two Houses of Parliament.

Ayes, two hundred and ninety-six ; noes, one hundred and six.

Amendment proposed to leave out from the first [and] to the eBd of
the question, and insert [to assure His Majesty, that in order to fix the
true dignity of his Crown, and the authority of Parliament on a sure
foundation, we shall endeavour to recover the hearts of his subjects in
America, too many of whom are unhappily alienated from their usual
affection to their Mother Country, by endeavouring to remove all those
causes of jealousy and apprehension which have arisen from an unfor-
tunate management of His Majesty's affairs, and from acts of the last
Parliament, made without sufficient information of the true state of
America.]

Question put, that the words proposed to be left out stand part of
this question ? Ayes, three hundred and four ; noes, one hundred and
five.

t The Resolution of the House of Commons.

Luna-, 20° Die Februarii, 1775. — The House in a Committee on tho
American Papers, motion made and question proposed,

That it is tho opinion of this Committee, that when the Govemour,
Council, and Assoinbly, or General Court, of any of His Majesty's
Provinces or Colonies in America shall propose to make provision,
according to the condition, circumstances, and situation of such Prov.
ince or Colony, for contributing their proportion to the common de-
fonco, (such proportion to be raised under the authority of the General
Court or General Assembly of such Provinco or Colony, and disposa-
ble by Parliament,) and shall engage to make provision also for the
support of the civil Government, and the administration of justice in
such Province or Colony, it will be proper, if such proposal shall be
approved by His Majesty and the two Houses of Parliament, and for
so long as such provision shall bo made accordingly, to forbear, in
respoct of such Province or Colony, to levy any duty, tax, or assess.
mont, or to imposo any further duty, tax, or assessment, except only
such duties as it may be expedient to continue to levy or impose for
tho regulation of Commerce, the nett produce of the duties last men.
tionod to be carried to the account of such Province or Colony respec-
tively.

453

PENNSYLVANIA ASSEMBLY, MAY, 1775.

451

Commons the twentieth of February last, relative to the
unhappy differences suhsisting between our Mother Coun-
try and her American Colonies. You will perceive by
this Resolve not only a strong disposition manifested by
that august body to remove the causes which have given
rise to the discontents and complaints of His Majesty's
subjects in the Colonies, and the dreadful impending evils
likely to ensue from them, but that they have pointed out
the terms on which they think it just and reasonable a final
accommodation should be grounded.

Let me earnestly entreat you, gentlemen, to weigh and
consider this plan of reconciliation held forth and offered
by the parent to her children, with that temper, calmness,
and deliberation, that the importance of the subject and
the present critical situation of affairs demand. Give me
leave to observe, that the Colonies, amidst all those com-
plaints which a jealousy of their liberties has occasioned,
have never denied the justice or equity of their contribu-
ting towards the burdens of the Mother Country, to whose
protection and care they owe not only their present opu-
lence, but even their very existence. On the contrary,
every state and representation of their supposed grievances
that I have seen, avows the propriety of such a measure,
and their willingness to comply with it.

The dispute, then, appears to me to be brought to this
point : Whether the redress of any grievances the Colonists
have reason to complain of, shall precede, or be postponed
to the settlement of that just proportion which America
should bear towards the common support and defence of
the whole British Empire.

You have, in the Resolution of the House of Commons,
which I have authority to tell you is entirely approved by
His Majesty, a solemn declaration that an exemption from
any duty, tax, or assessment, present or future, except such
duties as may be expedient for the regulation of Com-
merce, shall be the immediate consequence of proposals
on the part of any of the Colony Legislatures, accepted by
His Majesty and the two Houses of Parliament, to make
provision, according to their respective circumstances, for
contributing their proportion to the common defence, and
the support of the civil Government of each Colony.

I will not do you so much injustice, gentlemen, as to
suppose you can desire a better security for the inviolable
performance of this engagement, than the Resolve itself,
and His Majesty's approbation of it gives you.

As you are the first Assembly on the Continent to whom
this Resolution has been communicated, much depends on
the moderation and wisdom of your counsels ; and you will
be deservedly revered to the latest posterity, if, by any
possible means, you can be instrumental in restoring the
publick tranquillity, and rescuing both Countries from the
dreadful calamities of a civil war. John Penn.

M ty 2, 1775.

A Remonstrance from a number of Farmers and Millers
in the County of Bucks, respecting an alteration of the
sizes of Flour-Barrels, was presented to the House and
read.

Ordered to lie on the table.

Mr. Speaker laid before the House a Letter received in
their recess from the Speaker of the House of Assembly
of the Colony of New- York, with sundry Papers therein
referred to, which were read by order, and the said Letter
is as follows, viz :

"New. York, April 10, 1775.

" Sir : By an order of the General Assembly of this
Colony, I am directed to transmit you the enclosed papers
upon the subject of the unhappy situation of American
affairs ; they contain a List of Grievances, with the Reso-
lutions of the House in consequence thereof, and also a
Petition to the King, a Memorial to the House of Lords,
and a Representation and Remonstrance to the Commons
of Great Britain. I am also directed to request of you
to lay the same before the House of Assembly of your
Colony at their first meeting after the receipt hereof. I
shall only add that our Assembly stands adjourned until
the third day of May next, and that I am, respectfully, Sir,
your most humble servant,

" John Chuger, Speaker.
" To the Speaker of the General Assembly of the Province

of Pennsylvania"

May 3, 1775. — The House met pursuant to adjourn-
ment, and taking into consideration the Governour's Mes-
sage of yesterday, with the Resolution of the House of
Commons attending it, after some debate thereon,

Ordered, That Mr. Dickinson, Mr. Charles Thomson,
Mr. Brown, Mr. Pearson, Mr. Webb, Mr. Ewing, Mr.
Allen, Mr. Chreist, Mr. Edmonds, Mr. Dougherty, Mr.
Hunter, and Mr. William Thomfson, be a Committee to
essay and bring in a draught of an Answer to the said
Message.

May 4, 1775. — The House met pursuant to adjourn-
ment.

The Committee appointed to prepare and bring in a
draught of an Answer to the Governour's Message reported
an Essay for that purpose, which being read by paragraphs,
and after some alteration, agreed to by the House, was
ordered to be transcribed.

The Answer of the House to the Governour's Message
being transcribed according to order, was again read, signed
by the Speaker, and follows in these words, viz :

Answer to the Governour's Message from the House.

May it please your Honour: We have taken into
our serious consideration your Message of the second in-
stant, and the Resolution of the British House of Com-
mons therein referred to.

Having " weighed and considered this plan with the tem-
per, calmness, and deliberation that the importance of the
subject and the present critical situation of affairs demand,"
we are sincerely sorry that we cannot " think the terms
pointed out " afford " a just and reasonable ground for a
final accommodation " between Great Britain and the
Colonies.

Your Honour observes, " that the Colonies, amidst all
those complaints which a jealousy of their liberties has
occasioned, have never denied the justice or equity of con-
tributing towards the burdens of the Mother Country;"
but your Honour must know, that they have ever unani-
mously asserted it as their indisputable right, that all aids
from them should be their own free and voluntary gifts,
not taken by force nor extorted by fear.

Under which of these descriptions the " plan held forth
and offered by the parent to her children" at this time,
with its attendant circumstances, deserves to be classed, we
choose rather to submit to the determination of your Hon-
our's good sense, than to attempt proving by the enumera-
tion of notorious facts, or the repetition of obvious reasons.

If no other objection to " the plan" proposed occurred
to us, we should esteem it a dishonourable desertion of
sister Colonies, connected by an union founded on just mo-
tives and mutual faith, and conducted by General Councils,
for a single Colony to adopt a measure so extensive in
consequence, without the advice and consent of those
Colonies engaged with us by solemn ties in the same com-
mon cause.

For we wish your Honour to be assured, that we can
form no prospect appearing reasonable to us, of any lasting
advantages for Pennsylvania, however agreeable they may be
at the beginning, but what must arise from a communication
of rights and prosperity with the other Colonies ; and that
if such a prospect should be opened to us, we have too
sincere an affection for our brethren, and too strict a regard
" for the inviolable performance of" our " engagements,"
to receive any pleasure from benefits equally due to them,
yet confined to ourselves, and which, by generously reject-
ing them at present, may at length be secured to all.

Your Honour is pleased to observe, that as we are " the
first Assembly on the Continent to whom this Resolution
has been communicated, much depends on the moderation
and wisdom of our counsels, and we shall be deservedly-
revered to the latest posterity, if, by any possible means,"
we " can be instrumental in restoring the publick tranquil-
lity, and rescuing both Countries from the dreadful calami-
ties of a civil war."

Your Honour, from your long residence and conversation
among us, must be persuaded that the people we represent
are as peaceable and obedient to Government, as true and
faithful to their Sovereign, and as affectionate and dutiful
to their superiour State, as any in the world ; and though
we are not inattentive to the approbation of " posterity," a?

455

PENNSYLVANIA ASSEMBLY, MAY, 1775.

156

it might reflect honour upon our Country, yet higher mo-
tives have taught us upon all occasions to demonstrate by
every testimony our devotion to our King and Parent State.

Still animated by the same principles, and most earnestly
desirous of enjoying our former undisturbed condition of
dependance and subordination productive of so many bless-
ings to " both Countries," we cannot express the satisfac-
tion we should receive " if, by any possible means," we
could " be instrumental in restoring the publick tranquilli-
ty." Should such an opportunity offer, we shall endea-
vour with the utmost diligence and zeal to improve it, and
to convince His Majesty and our Mother Country, that
we shall ever be ready and willing with our lives and for-
tunes to support the interests of His Majesty and that Coun-
try, by every effort that can be reasonably expected from
the most loyal subjects, and the most dutiful Colonists.

Until Divine Providence shall cause, in the course of
his dispensations, such a happy period to arrive, we can
only deprecate, and, if it be possible, strive by prudence
to avoid the " calamities of a civil war ;" a dreadful mis-
fortune, indeed, and not to be exceeded but by an utter
subversion of the liberties of America. Signed by order
of the House : John Mobton, Speaker.

May 4, 1775.

Ordered, That Mr. Brown and Mr. John Jacobs wait
on the Governour and deliver the foregoing Answer to his
Message.

A Petition from a considerable number of the inhabi-
tants of the City and Liberties of Philadelphia, was pre-
sented to the House and read, setting forth that the Peti-
tioners, deeply affected with a sense of the imminent dan-
gers to which this Province particularly and the Colonies
in general are exposed at this instant, are compelled, by the
first law dictated by nature, to endeavour to preserve them-
selves from utter destruction, and therefore look up to the
honourable House, the guardians of publick liberty, in whom
the people of this Province have reposed the highest trust,
for that protection which, under the favour of the Almighty
God, it is in their power to afford ; that the Petitioners in
this contest for freedom and all the blessings attending it,
have been greatly encouraged by the firmness, wisdom, and
publick spirit of the late and present House of Assembly ;
and affairs being now reduced to extremity by the com-
mencement of a civil war on this Continent, which, in all
probability must, in its course, soon reach Pennsylvania,
the Petitioners most humbly and fervently beseech and
supplicate the honourable House to grant, raise, and apply
with all possible despatch, a sum of money, at least amount-
ing to Fifty Thousand Pounds, towards putting this Prov-
ince into a state of defence, in such manner as to the
House shall appear most proper and effectual.

Ordered to lie on the table.

May 5, 1775. — The House met pursuant to their ad-
journment.

The Members appointed to wait on the Governour with
the Answer of the House to his Message of the second in-
stant, reported they had delivered the same according to
order.

The House resumed the consideration of the Petition
presented yesterday from the inhabitants of the City and
Liberties of Philadelphia, for aid from Government towards
putting the Province into a state of defence ; and after a
debate of some length, adjourned to three o'clock, P. M.

The House met at three o'clock P. M., and proceeded
to the consideration of the Petition from the inhabitants of
the City and Liberties of Philadelphia, and after further
time spent therein, adjourned to ten o'clock to-morrow
morning.

May 6, 1775. — The House met pursuant to adjourn-
ment. Being acquainted that with Captain Osborne, who
arrived yesterday, came passenger Benjamin Franklin,
Esquire, late Agent for this Province in London :

Resolved, n. c. d., That the said Benjamin Franklin,
Esquire, be, and he is hereby added to the Deputies ap-
pointed by this House on the part of Pennsylvania, to at-
tend the Continental Congress expected to meet on the
10th instant in this City.

Resolved, n. c. d., That the Honourable Thomas Wil-
ling, Esquire, of Philadelphia, and James Wilson, Esquire,
of Carlisle, be also added to the said Deputies for this
Province.

Post Meridian, May 9, 1775. — The House resumed
the consideration of the Petition from the inhabitants of
the City and Liberties of Philadelphia, and after some
time spent therein, adjourned to three o'clock, P. M.

Upon motion, the House resumed the consideration of
the Draught of Instructions to the Deputies for this Prov-
ince, brought in at the last sitting, which being consider-
ed, and, after some alterations, agreed to by the House,
was ordered to be transcribed.

A Petition from the Committee of the City and Liber-
ties of Philadelphia, respecting engagements they have
entered into for the publick security, whereby a consider-
able debt hath accrued, which cannot be discharged without
the aid of the Legislature, was presented to the House and
read.

Ordered to lie on the table.

The Instructions to the Deputies appointed by this Prov-
ince to attend the Continental Congress being transcribed
according to order, were signed by the Speaker, and fol-
low in these words, viz :

Gentlemen : The trust reposed in you is of such a
nature, and the modes of executing it may be so diversified
in the course of your deliberations, that it is scarcely pos-
sible to give you particular instructions respecting it.

We shall, therefore, in general, direct that you meet in
Congress the Delegates of the several British Colonies, to
be held on the 10th instant, to consult together on the pre-
sent critical and alarming situation and state of the Colo-
nies, and that you exert your utmost endeavours to agree
upon and recommend such further measures as shall afford
the best prospect of obtaining redress of American griev-
ances, and restoring that union and harmony between Great
Britain and the Colonies so essential to the welfare and
happiness of both Countries.

You are directed to make report of your proceedings to
this House at their next sessions after the meeting of the
Congress. Signed by order of the House :

John Morton, Speaker.

May 9, 1775.

The House adjourned to ten o'clock to-morrow morning.

May 11, 1775. — The House met pursuant to adjourn-
ment.

Taking again into consideration the Petition from the
Committee of the City and Liberties of Philadelphia, after
some debate,

Ordered, That the Committee of Accounts do examine
the Funds of the Province, and report to the House what
sum they may immediately draw from thence.

The House adjourned to three o'clock, P. M.

Three o'clock, P. M. — The Committee of Accounts
reported that, upon examining the Provincial Funds, they
find the sum of Two Thousand Pounds at the disposal of
the House.

Upon motion,

Resolved, That George Gray, Michael Hillegas, and
Charles Humphreys, Esquires, or any two of them, are
hereby authorized and empowered to draw orders on Sam-
uel Preston Moore, Esquire, to the amount of Eighteen
Hundred Pounds, out of the Interest Money in his hands,
and on the Provincial Treasurer for the sum of Two Hun-
dred Pounds, out of the rents of the Province Island, to be
disposed of and applied towards discharging certain engage-
ments lately entered into for the publick security.

The House then adjourned to ten o'clock, to-morrow
morning.

May 12, 1775. — The House met pursuant to adjourn-
ment.

Upon motion,

Resolved, That Mr. Gray, Mr. Dickinson, Mr. Mifflin,
Mr. Charles Thomson, Mr. Wynkoop, Mr. Wayne, Mr.
Slough, Mr. Ewing, Mr. Montgomery, Mr. Edmonds, Mr.
Dougherty, Mr. Hunter, and Mr. William Thompson, or

457

CORRESPONDENCE, PROCEEDINGS, &c, MAY, 1775.

458

a majority of them, do immediately use such measures to
provide Stores that may be necessary for the service of the
Province at this time, not exceeding in value the sum of
Five Thousand Pounds, as to them shall appear most ex-
pedient and effectual.

Joseph Galloway, Esquire, having repeatedly moved in
Assembly to be excused from serving as a Deputy for this
Province in the Continental Congress, the House this day
took his motion into consideration, and do hereby agree
to excuse him from that service.

The House adjourned to three o'clock, P. M.

Three o'clock, P. M.— Ordered, That Mr. Wijtikoop
and Mr. Edmonds wait on the Governour, and acquaint

him that the House incline to adjourn to Monday, the 19th
ol June next, if his Honour has no objection thereto.
The House adjourned to nine o'clock to-morrow morning.

May 13, 1775. — The House met pursuant to adjourn-
ment.

The Members appointed to wait on the Governour with
the Message of last night, reported they had delivered the
same according to order, and that his Honour was pleased
to say, he had no objection to the adjournment proposed by
the House.

The House adjourned to Monday, the 19th of June
next, at four o'clock, P. M.

MEETINGS OF INHABITANTS OF MORRIS COUNTY, NEW-
JERSEY.

Pursuant to an appointment of a meeting of the Free-
holders and Inhabitants of the County of Morris, agree-
able to notice given by the former Committee of Corres-
pondence, the said Freeholders and Inhabitants did meet
accordingly on Monday, the first day of May, Anno
Domini, 1775.

Jacob Ford, Esq., Chairman,
William De Hart, Esq., Clerk.

And came into the following Votes and Resolutions, to
wit :

That Delegates be chosen to represent the County of
Morris, and that the said Delegates be vested with the
power of legislation, and that they raise Men, Money, and
Anns for the common defence, and point out the mode,
method, and means of raising, appointing, and paying the
said Men and Officers, subject to the control and direction
of the Provincial and Continental Congress ; and that after-
wards they meet in Provincial Congress with such Coun-
ties as shall send to the same, jointly with them to levy
taxes on the Province, with full power of legislative au-
thority, if they think proper to exercise the same, for the
said Province, and the said Provincial Congress' be subject
to the control of the Grand Continental Congress.

And they proceeded to elect the following persons to be
their Delegates as aforesaid, to wit :

William Winds, Esquire, William De Hart, Esquire,
Silas Condit, Peter Dickerson, Jacob Drake, Ellis Cook,
Jonathan Stiles, Esq., David Thompson, Esq., Abraham
Kitchell.

By order :

William De Hart, Clerk.

And pursuant to the above appointment, the said Dele-
gates met at the house of Captain Peter Dickerson, at
Morristoion, in the County of Morris, on the said first day
of May, 1775:

Present : William Winds, Esquire, William De Hart,
Esq., Silas Condit, Peter Dickerson, Jacob Drake, Ellis
Cook, Jonathan Stiles, Esq., David Thompson, Esquire,
Abraham Kitchell.

William Winds, Esq., was unanimously chosen Chair-
man. Archibald Dallas was appointed Clerk.

Voted unanimously, That any five of the Delegates,
when met, be a body of the whole, and do make a board,
and that a majority of them so met should make a vote.

Voted unanimously, That Forces should be raised.

Then the Delegates adjourned till to-morrow, at nine
o'clock in the forenoon, to meet at the house of Captain
Peter Dickerson aforesaid.

Tuesday, Nine o'clock, May 2, 1775.

Pursuant to adjournment, the Delegates met.

Present : William Winds, Esq., William De Hart, Esq.,
Silas Condit, Peter Dickerson, Ellis Cook, Jonathan
Stiles, Esq., David Thompson, Esq., Abraham Kitchell.

Voted, That three hundred men should be laised, ex-
clusive of Commissioned Officers.

Voted, That the said three hundred men be Volunteers.

Voted, That the three hundred men, so raised, shall be
divided in Five Companies, sixty men each.

Voted, That those Companies shall be commanded by

three Commissioned Officers, viz : a Captain and two
Lieutenants.

. Voted, That two Field Officers shall be appointed, and
that each of them shall supply the place of Captain in the
two first Companies.

Voted, That William Winds shall be Colonel.

At twelve o'clock adjourned, to meet at half an hour
after one o'clock in the afternoon.

Half past One o'clock.

Met, according to adjournment. All the Members pre-
sent.

Voted, That William De Hart, Esquire, shall be
Major.

Voted, That Samuel Ball, Joseph Morris, and Daniel
Budd shall be Captains.

Voted, That John Huntington be Captain-Lieutenant
in the Colonel's Company, and Silas Howell to be Captain-
Lieutenant in the Major's Company.

Voted, That the Captain of each Company shall ap-
point his Lieutenants.

Ordered, That the Captains shall discipline their men
at the rate of one day every week, and to continue the
same till further orders; and the times be appointed, and
the places of training affixed by the Captains.

Voted, That in case of any invasion or alarm, either in
this or any of the neighbouring Provinces, the said Officers
and men shall be called out to service by the Commanding
Officer for the time being; and the said Officers and men
shall be paid as follows, viz : Captains, Seven Shillings,
Proclamation money, per day ; First Lieutenants, Six Shil-
lings per day ; Second Lieutenants, Five Shillings per day ;
Sergeants, Three Shillings and Six Pence per day ; Pri-
vate men, Three Shillings per day, and found with Provi-
sions, Arms, and Ammunition; and when only in discipline
at home, the same wages, and to find themselves, and their
wages to be paid every two months.

Voted, That the following be the form of the Enlisting
paper, to be signed by the recruits :

" We, the subscribers, do voluntarily enlist in the Com-
pany of Captain to be and serve

in the Regiment under the command of Colonel William
Winds, in this or any of the neighbouring Provinces,
where we may be called, agreeable to certain Resolves,
made and entered into by the Delegates for the County of
Morris."

Ordered, That five hundred weight of Powder and a
ton of Lead be purchased and kept in a Magazine, for the
use of the new Regiment now to be raised for the County
of Morris.

Voted, That William De Hart, Esquire, be appointed
to purchase the said Powder and Lead.

Voted, That the Votes and Resolves of this meeting
shall be subject to the control of the Provincial and Conti-
nental Congresses, to take place after due notice being
given tons by either of the said Congresses, of their disap-
probation of all or any of our proceedings.

And the Delegates taking into consideration the unhap-
py circumstances of this Country, do recommend to the
inhabitants of this County capable of bearing arms, to pro-
vide themselves with Arms and Ammunition to defend
their Country in case of any invasion.

459

CORRESPONDENCE, PROCEEDINGS, &c, MAY, 1775.

460

Adjourned till the ninth day of this month, at nine o'clock
in the forenoon, to meet at the house of Captain Peter
Dickerson, in Morristown.

WOODBRIDGE (.NEW-JERSEY) COMMITTEE TO THE SEVERAL

COMMITTEES OF MASSACHUSETTS.

In Committee, Woodbridgo, New-Jersey, }
May 1, 1775. \

Gentlemen : We have received repeated intelligence
by expresses of your engaging and defeating the Regulars
under the command of General Gage, which is universally
credited in this Colony ; and we have the pleasure of as-
suring you, your conduct and bravery on that occasion is
greatly applauded and admired by all ranks of men. In
consequence of the intelligence, a Provincial Convention
will be held, as soon as the Members can possibly be con-
vened ; in the mean time the inhabitants are putting them-
selves in the best posture of defence, being determined to
stand or fall with the liberties of America. We have, for
some time past, feared the Neiv-Yorkers would desert
American liberty, but are now fully convinced, by their
late spirited conduct, that they are determined to support
the grand cause. We also learn, with pleasure, that the
inhabitants of Pennsylvania and the other Southern Prov-
inces are firm, unanimous, and spirited. We have only to
add, that you have our unfeigned and hearty thanks for the
noble stand you have made, and our sincere and fervent
prayers for a speedy deliverance from all your calamities.

We are, very respectfully, gentlemen, your most obedi-
ent humble servants. By order of the Committee :

Moses Bloomfield, Chairman.

New-York, May 1, 1775.

This day the following gentlemen were chosen a Gene-
ral Committee for the City and County of Neic- York, in
the present alarming exigency :

Isiac Low,
Philip Livingston,
James Duane,
John Alsop,
John Jay,

P. V. B. Livingston,
Isaac Sears,
David Johnston,
Alex. McDougall,
Thomas Randall,
Leonard Lispenard,
William Walton,
John Broome,
Joseph Hallett,
Gabriel H. Ludlow,
Nicholas Hoffman,
Abraham Walton,
Peter Van Schaack,
Henry Uemsen,
Peter T. Curtenius,
Abraham Brasher,
Abraham P. Loll,
Abraham Duryce,
Joseph Bull,
Francis Lewis,
Joseph Totten,
Thomas Ivers,
Hercules Mulligan,
John Anthony,
Francis Bassctt,
Victor Bicker,
John White,
Theophilus Anthony,
William Goforth,

William Denning,
Isaac Roosevelt,
Jacob Van Voorhies,
Jeremiah Piatt,
Comfort Sands,
Robert Benson,
William W. Gilbert,
John Berrian,
Gabriel W. Ludlow,
Nicholas Roosevelt,
Edward Fleming,
Lawrence Embree,
Samuel Jones,
John De Lancey,
Frederick Jay,
William W. Ludlow,
John B. Moore,
Rodolphus Ritzma,
Lindley Murray,
Lancaster Burling,
John Lasher,
George Janeway,
James Boekman,
Samuel Verplanck,
Richard Yates,
David Clarkson,
Thomas Smith,
James Desbrosses,
Augustus Van Home,
Garret Ketletas,
Eleazer Miller,
Benjamin Kissam,
John M. Scott,

Cornelius Cloppcr,
John Reade,
J. Van Courtlandt,
Jacobus Van Zandt,
Gjrardus Duyckinck,
Peter Goelet,
John Marston,
Thomas Marston,
John Morton,
George Folliott,
Jacobus Lefforts,
Richard Sharpe,
Hamilton Young,
Abram. Brinckerhoff,
Benjamin Helme,
Walter Franklin,
David Beekman,
William Seaton,
Evert Banker,
Robert Ray,
Nicholas Bogart,
William Laight,
Samuel Broome,
John Lamb,
Daniel Phenix,
Anthony Van Dam,
Daniel Dunscomb,
John Imlay,
Oliver Templeton,
Lewis Pintard,
Cornelius P. Low,
Thomas Buchannan,
Putrus Byvanck.

The following twenty-one gentlemen were, at the same
time, chosen Deputies for the City and County of New-
York, to meet Deputies of the other Counties in Provincial
Congress, on Monday, the 21st of May, 1775 :

Leonard Lispenard,
Isaac Low,
Abraham Walton,
Isaac Roosevelt,
Abraham Brasher,
Alex. McDougall,
P. V. B. Livingston,

James Beekman,
John M. Seott,
Thomas Smith,
Benjamin Kissam,
S ■iinuel Verplanck,
Divid Clarkson,
George Folliott,

Joseph Hallet,
J. Van Courtlandt,
John De Lancey,
Richard Yates,
John Marston,
Wahet Franklin,
Jacobus Van Zandt.

COUNCIL OF NEW-YORK.

At a Council held at the Council Chamber in the City
of New-York, on Monday, the first day of May, 1775,
Present: The Honourable Cadwalladcr Col den, Esquire,
His Majesty's Lieutenant Governour, kc. kc, Mr. Watt*,

Mr. De Lancey, Mr. Apthorp, Mr. Morris, Mr. Smith, Mr.
Wallace, Mr. White, Mr. Axlell, Mr. Crvger, Mr. Jaun-
ccy.

That the advice of the Council for the prorogation of
the Assembly may not be interpreted a neglect of the last
intimations of His Majesty's pleasure for restoring the tran-
quillity of the Empire, signified in the Earl of Dartmouth's
Letter of the 3d of March, the Council observed to his
Honour :

That there was, in the course of the last winter, a gene-
ral expectation in this Province of some signification to the
Colonies upon the contested subject of taxation and other
grievances, and an earnest desire in the people to maintain
their ancient union with, and dependance upon Great
Britain.

That if the Secretary of Stale's Letter had found the
Colony in this temper, there was room to hope, from the
explicit declarations contained in it, of His Majesty's most
gracious intentions of promoting a reconciliation between
the several branches of the Empire, that the Colonies
would have declared themselves upon its important con-
tents in some way favourable to the Union, which every
good subject to His Majesty so ardently desires, and which
the Council conceive the people of this Colony were dis-
posed most strenuously to promote.

That Lord Dartmouth's Letter arrived on the 24th of
April, the very day after the news reached us of the me-
lancholy event in the Massachusetts-Bay, of the 10th
April, which has thrown the Provinces into confusion,
kindled a flame that renders it impossible for the Repre-
sentatives of the people to give that attention to his Lord-
ship's Letter that is expected by His Majesty, until the
present ferments subside.

Astonished by accounts of acts of hostility in the mo-
ment of the expectation of terms of reconciliation, and now-
filled with distrust, the inhabitants of this City burst through
all retraints on the arrival of the intelligence from Boston,
and instantly emptied the vessel laden with Provisions for
that place, and then seized the City Arms, and in the
course of a few days distributed them among the multitude,
formed themselves into Companies, and trained openly in
the streets ; increased the numbers and power of the Com-
mittee before appointed, to execute the Association of the
Continental Congress ; convened themselves, by beat of
drum, for popular Resolutions; have taken the keys of
the Custom-House by military force ; shut up the Port :
drawn a number of small cannon into the country ; called
all parts of the Colony to a Provincial Convention ; chosen
twenty Delegates for this City; formed an Association,
now signing by all ranks, engaging submission to Commit-
tees and Congresses, in firm union with the rest of the
Continent, and openly avow a resolution, not only to resist
the Acts of Parliament complained of as grievances, but to
withhold succours of all kinds from the Troops, and to
repel every species of force, whenever it may be exerted,
for enforcing the taxing claims of Parliament, at the risk of
their lives and fortunes.

In such a change of temper and conduct, (which has
entirely prostrated His Majesty's Government in this Prov-
ince,) there cannot be the least prospect of bringing the
Assembly to a deliberate consideration of the Earl of Dart-
mouth's Letter ; nor is there any foundation for the most
distant hope of accomplishing His Majesty's intentions, if
there is any farther irritation by the movements of the
Army, and fresh effusions of blood. And as it appears to
the Council to be of the last importance to the British
Empire, that the true state of the Colonies be immediately
made known to His Majesty, and also to the Commander-
in-chief of his forces on this Continent, the Council, moved
by their zeal for the interest of the Crown and the felicity
of His Majesty's subjects, recommend it to his Honour to
transmit, as soon as possible, tho full information of the
late events in this Province, with assurances to General
Gage that the great end of the reconciliation, so explicitly
urged in the Secretary of State's Letter, cannot be accom-
plished, agreeable to His Majesty's expectations, unless he
can find means to remove the suspicion of his meditating
further operations on the part of the Army, that the people
may, with due composure of mind, attend to the terms
recommended by His Majesty far re-establishing the tran-
quillity of the Empire.

461

CORRESPONDENCE, PROCEEDINGS, kc, MAY, 1775.

4b 2

PROCLAMATION BY GOVERNOUR COLDEN.

By the Honourable Cadwallader Colden, Esquire, His
Majesty's Lieutenant Governour and Commander-in-
Chief of the Province of New- York, and the Terri-
tories depending thereon in America :

A Proclamation.

Whereas the General Assembly of this Province stands
adjourned to the third day of May instant : I have thought
fit for His Majesty's service to prorogue, and I do, by and
with the advice of His Majesty's Council, prorogue the
said General Assembly to the seventh day of June next,
of which all His Majesty's subjects concerned therein are
required to take notice, and govern themselves accord-
ingly.

Given under my hand and seal at arms, at Fort George,
in the City of New- York, the first day of May, one thou-
sand seven hundred and seventy-five, in the fifteenth year
of the reign of our Sovereign Lord George the Third, by
the grace of God, of Great Britain, France, and Ireland,
King, Defender of the Faith, and so forth.

Cadwallader Colden.

By his Honour's command :

Sam. Bayard, Jun., Deputy Secretary.

God sore the King.

TIMOTHY PICKERING, JUNIOR, TO THE COMMITTEE OF
SAFETY FOR MASSACHUSETTS.

Salem, May 1, 1775.
Gentlemen : As a great number of men will soon be
out of employ within the limits of the First Regiment, in
Essex, it is thought by many highly expedient that they
should have an opportunity to enlist into the Army. I
imagine a Regiment may presently be enlisted, if field
officers be appointed ; and I beg leave to recommend Lieu-
tenant Colonel John Mansfield, of Lynn, as well qualified to
take the command of the proposed Regiment, and Captain
Israel Hutchinson, of Danvers, to be the second in com-
mand. The latter is an active man, of experience in war,
having made three campaigns; and both he and Colonel
Mansfield will, I am persuaded, be very acceptable to the
people. I do not think just now of a Major ; but as soon
as it is known that a Regiment is to be formed in the en-
virons of Salem, I doubt not but a sufficient number of
suitable persons will present themselves to fill all the va-
cant offices in the Regiment. 1 am, gentlemen, your most
humble servant, Tim. Pickering, Junior.

To the Committee of Safety.

BOSTON COMMITTEE TO DOCTOR JOSEPH WARREN.

Boston, May 1, 1775.

Sir : We wrote you the 29th ultimo, per Mr. Edward
Payne, who left the Town yesterday morning. As Gen-
eral Gage thought that he could not, in his official capacity,
correspond with you on the subject you imparted to him,
he desired us to write you on it ; in conformity to which,
we say that you have, in a great measure, adopted the same
sentiments in your Resolves, which we are this day favour-
ed with in yours of yesterday, saving that part of it that
respects persons being sent from hence to carry into exe-
cution the desires of any of the inhabitants of the Province
now in Boston, respecting their bringing their effects from
the different parts of the Government where their dwelling
places are. In order to remove all difficulties, we do pro-
pose to give to persons to be sent from hence, either ser-
vants or others, passes to the office you have established,
desiring they may be furnished with passes for so long a
time as may be proper for them, according to the distance
they go ; that they may have liberty to procure any help
necessary for the conveyance of said effects, and that they
may pass and repass unmolested.

If the above be agreeable, please to favour us with an
answer by the bearer. We are, with respect and the great-
est regard and sincere affection, Sir, your most humble obe-
dient servants, John Scollay, Samuel Austin,
Thos. Marshall, John Pitts.
Timothy Newell,

To Doctor Joseph Warren.

LEMUEL WILLIAMS TO BENJAMIN AIKIX, ESQ.UIRE, IN
WATEKTOWN.

Dartmouth, Hay 1, 1775.
Sir: I am desired to acquaint you that Mr. Samuel
Allen, (by the desire of the principal part of the inhabit-
ants of this place) is sent to you to know the minds of the
Provincial Congress, whether it is most proper at this time
for the Merchants in this place to send their Vessels and
Provisions to sea, or not. Your early proposing the same
to that respectable body, will much oblige your humble
servant, Lemuel Williams.

ELBRIDGE GERRY TO THE MASSACHUSETTS CONGRESS.

Monday morning, 1775.

Mr. White, of Marblehead, from Boston, who has been
an Addresser, was dismissed yesterday, after having been
taken in a vessel of his own, with salt, and carried up to
that place. He informs the inhabitants of Marblehead,
that a transport arrived there yesterday with one hundred
and fifty Troops, and sailed from Ireland in company with
thirty-three more, which had on board eight Regiments,
three hundred and fifty Recruits, and one Regiment of
Dragoons. He parted with seventeen of them on Friday
last ; and it was supposed when they all arrived, that they
would be twelve thousand strong; but I cannot conceive
that there will be that number. Notwithstanding which,
it may be highly necessary to be ready for such an army.
This I have by a brother from Marblehead, just arrived,
who received it from White, and thought it proper to
apprize you of it, to be communicated to Congress, if neces-
sary. He likewise adds an anecdote of a vessel in Mar-
blehead, loaded with molasses, under custody of the Sloop-
of-War posted there, which the inhabitants boarded the last
night : they slipped her cables, and after running her into
the wharf, where a number of our men armed, were posted
to receive her, they unladed her cargo, and saved the
whole. 1 am, in much haste, Sir, your very humble ser-
vant, Elbridce Gerry.

Honourable President of the Congress.

PETITION OF JONATHAN BREWER.

To the Honourable the President and Members of the
Provincial Congress (^Massachusetts-Bay, now sit-
ting in Watertown, in said Province.

The Petition of Jonathan Breicer, Esq., of Waltham,
humbly sheweth :

That your Petitioner having a desire of contributing all
in his power for this Country's good, begs leave to propose
to this honourable House to march with a body of five hun-
dred Volunteers to Quebeck, by way of the Rivers Kenne-
beck and Chadier, as he humbly begs leave to apprehend
that such a diversion of the Provincial Troops into that part
of Canada, would be the means of drawing the Governour
of Canada with his Troops, into that quarter, and which
would effectually secure the Northern and Western Fron-
tiers from any inroads of the Regular or Canadian Troops.
This he humbly conceives he could execute with all the
facility imaginable. He therefore begs that this honour-
able Assembly would take this his proposal into considera-
tion, and to act thereon as in their wisdom shall seem
meet. J. Brewer.

EXTRACT OF A LETTER FROM HOLLAND, OF MAY 2, 1775, TO
THE REV. MR. WILLIAM GORDON, OF ROXBURY.

When the Parliament met, I was in hopes the manly
Address of the General Congress to the King, and that
to the People of England, would have opened their eyes,
and have led them to apply a remedy suitable to the dis-
ease ; but instead of that, what have they done ? Like true
quacks, they deal in inflammatories, and attempt to heal
by exasperating the evil they should cure. Of this nature
is Lord North's concession, the merit of which, (if it has
any) is wholly destroyed by the Restraining Bill. By this
they will further provoke those who are already sufficiently
enraged, and force the discarded useless fishermen to fly
to arms, and to fight against Administration, from a princi-
ple of hatred, as well as zeal for the publick. Never, sure,
were Ministers more infatuated than those headless beings

463

CORRESPONDENCE, PROCEEDINGS, &c, MAY, 1775.

464

who manage the affairs of England; and to tell you the
truth, it is like man like master with respect to the latter.
Don't you remember what Mr. T . . . . once told you
concerning his invincible obstinacy, as mentioned by a gen-
tleman who was much about his person when he was a
youth ? Has not all his conduct confirmed it ever since
lie mounted the Throne ? For I am persuaded lie (as
tutored by the assuming favourite) and the junto, is at the
bottom of all these wild measures ; nor will they relinquish
them till they smart severely for their folly. Don Quix-
ote like, they are obstinately bent on fighting wind-mills ;
and no wonder if they get broken heads in the encounter.
Were they alone to smart, it were no great matter ; but the
mischief is, that I fear they will draw down irreparable evils
upon both Englands. Lord North is only a tool to do the
dirty work of his more dirty superiours ; and the precious
Parliament are, in their place, the tools to do his dirty
work in return, for the pay he gives them. They have
lately employed that old mungy jacobite Doctor, alias
Dictionary Johnson, alias the Rambler, to answer the Con-
gress, in a pamphlet entitled " Taxation no Tyranny" —
a piece full of sophistical quibbles, dressed out in pedantick
bombast language. I hope to see some good answer to it ;
and am pleased to see how effectually the authors of the
Monthly Review, in their last Review, (March,) have cut
him down in a few words. If you ever see that periodical
work on your side the water, it will give you pleasure to
read what they have said on the subject. If we may be-
lieve the papers, art things w-ith you threaten war. In the
last it is affirmed the standard of liberty had been lately
erected at Salem, and that it was repaired to by numbers
in arms, determined to fight or die. Should the King's
Troops be worsted in any general action, of which I think
there is the greatest probability, what an uproar will it
make in England. And then let the Ministry stand clear.
If the Troops beat you, you can soon recruit. If they
gain five battles, and lose but one, it is over with them, so
great is the disadvantage under which they engage, besides
what arises from the circumstances of climate, and fighting
against those who fight, or are at least persuaded they fight
pro aris et focis, and this upon their own ground.

The English Ambassador at the Hague applied to the
States to forbid their subjects supplying the Americans with
arms and ammunition. The States published a prohibition
under the penalty of a Thousand Guilders, that is, about
Ninety Pounds Sterling. I leave you to comment on this
at your leisure, and judge if, where the profits of a voyage
are so great as a voyage of that kind must be, it is not
worth the merchant's while to risk that sum. And to as-
sist you in your determination on that point, it is owned by
our Ambassador at this place, that a Dutch ship has lately
got into Virginia, where it has landed four hundred barrels
of powder and fourteen hundred stand of arms. France
was applied to to forbid its subjects furnishing you with
any military stores. France, it is well known, could easily
have crushed all such assistance by an express prohibition ;
but France knows better than to do it, and therefore only
tells its subjects, if they do it, it is entirely at their own
risk, which is plainly saying, if you will venture, you may.
Spain, when applied to, roundly refused to give any hin-
drance to her subjects supplying you ; and I dare say, from
present appearances, will soon act openly against England.

An article lately appeared in the English papers, that a
Prussian ship sailed from Stetten to some part of America,
with thirty field-pieces, a good store of powder, ball, and
small arms, and six or seven Prussian Generals, whose
names were mentioned at length. This begins to gain
great credit in this part of the world, and is now affirmed
to be true. It is said they were engaged for by an Ameri-
can agent at the Court of Berlin. That politick Prince,
too, is on the watch ; he bears no good will to the Court of
London ; and in case England should be engaged in a war
with her Colonies, will carve himself a handsome slice out
of a certain Electorate, or the world will be greatly mis-
taken.

EXTRACT OF A LETTER FROM AN AMERICAN GENTLEMAN
AT PARIS, DATED MAY 2, 1775, TO HIS FRIEND IN
PHILADELPHIA.

I find the French are extremely attentive to our Ameri-
can politicks, and to a man strongly in favour of us ; whe-

ther mostly from ill-will to Britain, or friendship to the
Colonies, may be matter of doubt; but they profess it to
be upon a principle of humanity, and a regard to the natu-
ral rights of mankind. They say that the Americans will
be either revered or detested by all Europe, according to
their conduct at the approaching crisis ; they will have no
middle character ; for in proportion as their virtue and per-
severance will render them a glorious, their tame submis-
sion will make them a despicable people.

GLOUCESTER COUNTY (VIRGINIA) COMMITTEE.

At a meeting of the Committee of Gloucester, at the
Court-House, on Tuesday, the 2d of May, 1775 :

Resolved, That we will not ship a single Hogshead of
Tobacco to Great Britain, until the determination of the
Continental Congress respecting Exportation be known.

Resolved, That we deem the Resolution of our Com-
mittee last November, not to ship any Tobacco to Mr.
Norton's House, as still obligatory, the Ship Virginia
having arrived without the concessions then required.

Jasper Clayton. Clerk.

COUNCIL OF VIRGINIA.

At a Council held at the Palace, May 2, 1775. Pre-
sent : His Excellency the Governour, Thos. Nelson, Rich-
ard Corbin, William Byrd, Ralph JVormeley, Jr., Esquires,
John Camrn, Clerk, and John Page, Esquire.

The Governour was pleased to address himself to the
Board in the following manner :

Gentlemen: Commotions and insurrections have sud-
denly been excited among the people, which threatens the
very existence of His Majesty's government in this Colony ;
and no other cause is assigned for such dangerous measures,
than that the gunpowder, which had some time past been
brought from on board one of the King's ships to which it
belonged, and was deposited in the Magazine of this City,
has been removed, which, it is known, was done by my
order, to whom, under the constitutional right of the Crown
which I represent, the custody and disposal of all publick
stores of arms and ammunition alone belong. And whether
I acted in this matter (as my indispensable duty required)
to anticipate the malevolent designs of the enemies of order
and government, or to prevent the attempts of any enter-
prising negroes, the powder being still as ready and con-
venient for being distributed for the defence of the Country,
upon any emergency, as it was before, which I have pub-
lickly engaged to do, the expediency of the step I have
taken is equally manifest, and therefore it must be evident
that the same headstrong and designing people, who have
already but too successfully employed their artifices in de-
luding His Majesty's faithful subjects, and in seducing them
from their duty and allegiance, have seized this entirely
groundless subject of complaint, only to enslave afresh, and
to precipitate as many as possible of the unwary into acts
which, involving them in the same guilt, their corruptors
think may bind them to the same plans and schemes which
are unquestionably meditated in this Colony for subverting
the present, and erecting a new form of Government.

Induced by an unaffected regard for the general welfare
of the people whom I have had the honour of governing,
as well as actuated by duty and zeal in the service of His
Majesty, I call upon you, his Council, in this Colony, for
your advice upon this pressing occasion ; and I submit to
you whether a Proclamation should not issue conformable
to what I have now suggested ; and before our fellow-sub-
jects abandon themselves totally to extremities, which must
inevitably draw down an accumulation of every human
misery upon their unhappy Country, to warn them of their
danger, to remind them of the sacred oaths of allegiance
which they have taken, and to call up in their breasts that
loyalty and affection which upon so many occasions have
been professed by them to their King, their lawful sover-
eign ; and farther, to urge and exhort, in particular, those
whose criminal proceedings on this occasion have been, and
are still, so alarming, to return to their duty, and a due obe-
dience to the laws ; and, in general, all persons whatsoever
to rely upon the goodness and tenderness of our most gra-
cious Sovereign to all his subjects, equally, and upon the
wisdom of his Councils, for a redress of all their real

465

CORRESPONDENCE, PROCEEDINGS, &c, MAY, 1775.

466

grievances, which redress can only be obtained by constitu- can justify men, without proper authority, in a rapid recur
tional applications ; and, lastly, to enjoin all orders of peo-
ple to submit, as becomes good subjects, to the legal au-
thority of their Government, in the protection of which
their own happiness is most interested.

The Council thereupon acquainted his Excellency, that
as the matters he had been pleased to communicate to them
were of the greatest consequence, they desired time to de-
liberate thereon till the next day.

At a Council held at the Palace, May 3, 1775. Present :
His Excellency the Govemour, Thomas Nelson, Richard
Corbin, William Byrd, Ralph Wormdey, Jr., Esquires,
John Camm, Clerk, and John Page, Esquire.

The Board resuming the consideration of the subject laid
before them yesterday by the Govemour, advised him to
issue the following Proclamation ; and the same was ordered
accordingly.

By his Excellency the Right Honourable John Earl of
Dunmore, His Majesty's Lieutenant and Govemour
General of the Colony and Dominion of Virginia,
and Vice-Admiral of the same :

A Proclamation.
Virginia, to wit :

Whereas there is too much reason to suppose that some
persons in the different parts of this Colony are disaffected
to His Majesty's Government, and by their weight and credit
with the people, are endeavouring to bring the Country
into such a situation as to afford them the fairest prospect
of effecting a change in the form of it, covering the wicked
designs under the specious appearance of defending their
liberties, and have taken advantage of the unhappy ferment
which themselves have raised in the minds of their fellow-
subjects, in prosecution of their dangerous designs to op-
pose the most undoubted prerogative of the King, which,
in a late instance, I thought it expedient to exert, by re-
moving on board His Majesty's Ship the Fowey, a small
quantity of Gunpowder, belonging to His Majesty, from
the Magazine in this City : I have thought fit, by advice
of His Majesty's Council, to issue this my Proclamation,
with a view of undeceiving the deluded, and of exposing
to the unwary the destruction into which they may be pre-
cipitated, if they suffer themselves to be longer guided by
such infatuated counsels.

Although 1 consider myself, under the authority of ihe
Crown, the only constitutional judge in what manner the
munition, provided for the protection of the people of this
Government, is to be disposed of for that end, yet, for
effecting the salutary objects of this Proclamation, and re-
moving from the minds of His Majesty's subjects the
groundless suspicions they have imbibed, I think proper to
declare that the apprehensions which seemed to prevail
throughout this whole Country, of an intended insurrection
of the Slaves, who had been seen in large numbers in the
night time about the Magazine, and my knowledge of its
being a very insecure depository, were my inducements to
that measure, and I chose the night as the properest season,
because I knew the temper of the times, and the misinter-
pretations of my design which would be apt to prevail if
the thing should be known. Acting under these motives,
1 certainly rather deserved the thanks of the Country,
than their reproaches. But whenever the present ferment
shall subside, and it shall become necessary to put arms
into the hands of the Militia for the defence of the people
against a foreign enemy or intestine insurgents, I shall be as
ready as on a late occasion to exert my best abilities in the
service of the Country. In the mean time, as it is indis-
pensably necessary to maintain order and the authority of
the laws, and thereby the dignity of His Majesty's Govern-
ment, I exhort and require, in His Majesty's name, all his
faithful subjects to leave no expedient unessayed which may
tend to that happy end. Such as are not to be influenced
by the love of order for its own sake, and the blessings it
is always productive of, would do well to consider the in-
ternal weakness of this Colony, as well as the dangers to
which it is exposed from a savage enemy, who, from the
most recent advices I have received from the frontier in-
habitants, are ready to renew their hostilities against the
people of this Country. But as, on the one hand, nothing

rence to arms, nothing excuse resistance to the Executive
power in the due enforcement of law ; so, on the other,
nothing but such resistance and outrageous proceedings
shall ever compel me to avail myself of any means that
may carry the appearance of severity.

Anxious to restore peace and harmony to this distracted
Country, and to induce a firmer reliance on the goodness
and tenderness of our most gracious Sovereign to all his
subjects equally, and on the wisdom of his Councils for a
redress of all their real grievances, which can only be ob-
tained by loyal and constitutional applications, I again call
upon and require all His Majesty's liege subjects, and espe-
cially all Magistrates and other officers, both civil and mili-
tary, to exert themselves in removing the discontents, and
suppressing the spirit of faction which prevail among the
people, that a dutiful submission to the laws of the land
may be strictly observed, which shall ever be the rule of
my conduct, as the interest and happiness of this Dominion
ever have been, and shall continue to be, the objects of my
administration.

Given under my hand, and the seal of the Colony, at
Williamsburgh, this third clay of May, 1775, and in the fif-
teenth year of His Majesty's reign. Dunmore.
God save the King.

COMMITTEE OF INSPECTION FOR KENT COUNTY ON DELA-
WARE.
Dover, Tuesday, May 2, 1775. P. M.

The Committee met by adjournment, when the follow-
ing Letter was laid before them by the President of the
Committee of Correspondence for said County :

" I acknowledge to have wrote a piece (and did not sign
it) since said to be an extract of a Letter from Kent County
on Delaware, published in Humphreys's Ledger, No. 3.
It was not dated from any place, and is somewhat altered
from the original. I folded it up, and directed the same
to Joshua Fisher and Sons. I had no intention to have it
published, and further let them know, the author thought
best it should not be published, nor did I think they would.
I am sincerely sorry I ever wrote it, as also for its being
published, and hope I may be excused for this my first
breach in this way, and I intend it shall be the last.

" Robert Holliday."
To the Committee of Correspondence for Kent County on

Delaware.

Resolved unanimously, That this be not satisfactory, and
that Mr. Holliday be requested to attend the Committee
at their next meeting, on Tuesday the ninth instant, then
to give further satisfaction for the gross misrepresentation
of the people of this County, by said Letter, from which
an extract was published in Humphreys' 's Ledger.

Tuesday, May 9, P. M.

The Committee met according to adjournment, when
Mr. Holliday appeared, and offered to make the necessary
concessions for his conduct.

On motion, Resolved, That a Committee be appointed
to draw up Mr. Holliday's concessions in writing.

This being done, Mr. Holliday waited on the Com-
mittee with his concessions, drawn up in the form of an
Address, as follows :

" To the Committee of Inspection for Kent County on
Dklaware :

" Gentlemen : With sorrow and contrition for my weak-
ness and folly, 1 confess myself the author of the Letter
from which an extract was published in the third number
of Humphreys's Ledger, said to be from Kent County, on
Delaware, but at the same time do declare it was published
without my consent, and not without some alterations.

"I am now convinced the political sentiments therein
contained were founded in the grossest errour, more espe-
cially that malignant insinuation, that " if the King's Stand-
ard were now erected, nine out of ten would repair to it,"
could not have been suggested but from the deepest insinu-
ation. True, indeed it is, the people of this County have
ever shown a zealous attachment to His Majesty's person
and Government, and whenever he raised his standard in
a just cause, were ready to flock to it ; but let the severe

Fourth Series. — Vol.

30

467

CORRESPONDENCE, PROCEEDINGS, Sec, MAY, 1175.

468

account I now render to an injured people witness to the
world, that none are more ready to oppose tyranny, or to
be first in the cause of liberty, than the inhabitants of Kent
County.

" Conscious that I can render no satisfaction adequate to
the injuries done my Country, I can only beg the forgive-
ness of my countrymen upon those principles of humanity
which may induce them to consider the frailty of human
nature. And I do profess and promise, that I will never
again oppose those laudable measures necessarily adopted
by my countrymen for the preservation of American free-
dom, but will co-operate with them to the utmost of my
abilities, in their virtuous struggle for liberty, so far as is
consistent with my religious principles.

" Robert Holliday."

May 9, 1775.

Voted satisfactory.

Published by order of the Committee,

Thomas Nixon, Jr., Clerk.

EXTRACT OF A LETTER FROM A GKNTLEMAN IN PHILADEL-
PHIA TO HIS FRIEND IN LONDON.

Philadelphia, May 2, 1775.

Do not we see the hand of Providence in the late re-
pulse of the National soldiery ? New-England men who
are justly noted for religious attentions, do say, that God
hath evidently appeared on their side, and fought for them ;
thus deriving powerful motives for perseverance and vigour
in a cause so favoured. And indeed the battle has been
the Lord's. He has wrought by few, as easily as he could
by many.

The Militia, it is said, threaten the siege of Boston, how-
ever difficult it may seem, and we have a report that Gen-
eral Gage is suffering the inhabitants to retire. This fore-
bodes the destruction of that City ; but the people of the
Colony contemplate that consequence, the bombardment
of their Coast-Towns, and the total stagnation of their
Fishery and Trade. These advices must strike terrour
into the British Ministry, and astonish all Europe. But
this comes of driving people to despair. Though I trust
you will have come away, yet I venture to risk a letter.

This is the last I shall write to you, till further advices
from you. Indeed means of conveyance will probably fail,
for we expect that the Congress (about to sit) will recom-
mend the total suspension of exportation at their first meet-
ing. This has already taken place at New-York. The
van of the New-England Militia has actually arrived there,
and will be joined by the inhabitants, who are arraying.
You may be assured that from Maryland north-eastward,
there is no scarcity of ammunition. Gunpowder abounds
in New-England. A proper magazine of victuals for six
months, and stores, (even tents for thirty thousand men,)
have been collected at Worcester, forty-five miles west of
Boston.

Our City affords thirty Companies, from fifty to one
hundred each, of trained bands, who daily practise the
manual exercise of the musket. Citizens may not perhaps
be so much esteemed as soldiers ; but it is the same through-
out the Country.

NEW-JERSEY COMMITTEE OF CORRESPONDENCE.

At a meeting of the New-Jersey Provincial Committee
of Correspondence (appointed by the Provincial Congress)
at the City of New- Brunswick, on Tuesday, the second
day of May, Anno Domini, 1775, agreeable to summons
of Hendrick Fisher, Esq., Chairman.

Present : Hendrick Fisher, Samuel Tucker, Joseph
Borden, Joseph Biggs, Isaac Pearson, John Chetwood,
Lewis Ogden, Isaac Ogden, Abraham Hunt, and Elias
Boudinot, Esquires.

The Committee having seriously taken into consideration
as well the present alarming and very extraordinary conduct
of the British Ministry, for carrying into execution sundry
Acts of Parliament for the express purpose of raising a
revenue in America, and other unconstitutional measures
therein mentioned ; as also the several acts of hostility
that have been actually commenced for this purpose by the
Regular Forces under General Gage against our brethren
of the Colony of Massachusetts-Bay, in New-England ;

and not knowing how soon this Province may be in a state
of confusion and disorder, if there are not some effectual
measures speedily taken to prevent the same : This Com-
mittee are unanimously of opinion, and do hereby advise
and direct, that the Chairman do immediately call a Pro-
vincial Congress to meet at Trenton, on Tuesday the
twenty-third day of this instant, in order to consider of and
determine such matti rs as may then and there come before
them ; and the several Counties are hereby desired to nomi-
nate and appoint their respective Deputies for the same, as
speedily as may be, with full and ample powers for such
purposes as may be thought necessary for the peculiar exi-
gencies of this Province.

The Committee do also direct their Chairman to forward
true copies of the above minute to the several County Com-
mittees of this Province, without delay.

Hendrick Fisher, Chairman.

NEW-YORK COMMITTEE.

The Committee
Monday, 1st May,

Isaac Low,
Philip Livingston,
James Duane,
John Alsop,
Isaac Sears,
Alex. McDougall,
Thomas Randall,
Leonard Lispenard,
William Walton,
John Broome,
Joseph Hallctt,
Nicholas Hoffman,
Abraham Walton,
Peter Van Schaack,
Henry Remsen,
Peter T. Curtenius,
Abraham Brasher,
Abraham P. Lott,
Abraham Duryee,
Joseph Bull,
Francis Lewis,
Joseph Totten,
Thomas Ivers,
Hercules Mulligan,
John Anthony,
Francis Bassctt,
Victor Bicker,
John White,

met at the Exchange, at six o'clock,
1775. Present :

Theophilus Anthony,
William Goforth,
William Denning,
Isaac Roosevelt,
Jacob Van Voorhies,
Jeremiah Piatt,
Comfort Sands,
Robert Benson,
William W. Gilbert,
Nicholas Roosevelt,
John Berrian,
Edward Fleming,
John De Lancey,
Frederick Jay,
William W. Ludlow,
John B. Moore,
Lindley Murray,
Lancaster Burling,
John Lasher,
George Janeway,
James Beekman,
Richard Yates,
David Clarkson,
Thomas Smith,
James Desbrosses,
Augustus Van Home,
Garret Kettletas,
Eleazer Miller,

Benjamin Kissam,
John M. Scott,
Cornelius Cloppcr,
John Reade,
John Van Cortlandt,
Jacobus Van Zandt,
Gerardus Duyckiuck,
John Marston,
Thomas Marston,
Richard Sharpe,
Hamilton Young,
Benjamin Helme,
Walter Franklin,
David Beekman,
William Seaton,
Nicholas Bogart,
William Laight,
Samuel Broome,
John Lamb,
Daniel Phenut,
Anthony Van Dam,
Daniel Duuscomb,
John Imlay,
Oliver Templeton,
Cornelius P. Low,
Thomas Buchannan,
Petrus Byvanck.

Mr. Isaac Low was unanimously elected Chairman ;
Mr. Henry Bemsen, Deputy Chairman ; Mr. John Blagge,
Secretary ; and Mr. Thomas Pettit, Messenger.

The following Address was received from Mr. Samuel
Broome and his Company, which was read in the words
following, viz :

"Mr. Chairman and Gentlemen :

" We wait on you by order of one hundred inhabitants
who have formed themselves into a Military Association
Company, in order to co-operate with their fellow-citizens
in carrying into effect the purposes of the General Asso-
ciation ; and we are desired to assure you that they have
great confidence in your wisdom and zeal, and are deter-
mined to be guided by your advice, and to support your
resolutions respecting the preservation of American liberty,
of the peace and good order of the City, the safety of
individuals (unless proscribed by you) and of private pro-
perty ; upon every occasion we will cheerfully take our
tour of duty ; and when our services are wanted you may
apply to Mr. Samuel Broome, who we have chosen to
command us."

Mr. Scott moved, seconded by Mr. McDougall, That
a Sub-Committee of four members for each VVrard be ap-
pointed to offer the Association without delay to the inha-
bitants of this City and County, and that they take down
the names of such of them as shall not sign the Associa-
tion, and report their names to this Committee.

On the question, whether every person should be waited
on except the Lieutenant-Governour, carried in the affirm-
ative, by a great majority.

The following Rules for the government of this Com-
mittee in their debates and proceedings, were read, agreed
to, and ordered to be entered on their Minutes, viz :

1st. That the Chairman, and in his absence, the Deputy
Chairman, and in the absence of both, a Chairman to be
appointed pro tempore, shall preside at every meeting,

469

CORRESPONDENCE, PROCEEDINGS, &c, MAY, 1775.

470

and keep order and decorum, and that it shall be his duty
to sign all letters from the Board.

2d. That a Secretary shall be appointed who is not a
member of the Board.

•id. That all Addresses shall be made to the Chair, and
standing.

4th. That if more than one shall rise to speak at the
same time, the Chairman shall determine who shall first be
heard.

5th. That the substance of every motion which is
seconded, shall be entered on the Minutes.

6th. That no interruption shall be offered while a mem-
ber is delivering his sentiments.

7th. That every question shall be determined by a
majority of voices, and after a determination, the same
question shall not be resumed, but. with the consent of a
majority at a subsequent meeting.

8th. That when a question shall be determined, the
names of the members shall be entered as they shall vote,
on each side.

9th. That the Committee shall meet every Monday at
six o'clock in the evening, and on application of any five
members the Chairman, or in his absence the Deputy, and
in the absence of both, the Secretary, shall call a special
meeting, printed notice whereof to be left at the residence
of each member.

J Oth. That, for the despatch of business and to prevent
interruptions, the doors, at our meetings, shall be shut,
and that no act, proceeding, or debate of the Committee
shall be published or divulged, except to a member, unless
leave shall be first given by the Committee.

11th. That when the Chairman and Deputy Chairman
shall be out of Town, the five first members named on the
list of the body, who may be in Town, shall be at liberty to
open Letters directed to the Committee, and that the con-
tents of such Letters shall not be communicated but to a
member, without leave of the Committee.

12th. That every member after appearing shall keep his
seat, and not leave the Committee without the consent of
the Chairman.

13th. That no question shall be determined the day that
it is agitated, if one-third of the members then present
desire it to be postponed to the next meeting.

14th. That no member shall be at liberty to speak more
than twice to the same point without leave of the Board.

1 5th. That at every stated weekly meeting, these
Rules shall be publickly read previous to the proceeding
upon business.

Whereas it appears by the publick Papers that all Ex-
portation from Philadelphia to Quebeck, Nova-Scotia,
Georgia, and Newfoundland, or any part of the Fishing
Coasts or Fishing Islands are suspended, and that it be
accordingly recommended to every Merchant immediately
to suspend all Exportation to those places until the Conti-
nental Congress shall give further orders therein :

Resolved, That the above measure be recommended by
this Committee to the Merchants and Inhabitants of this
City and County, and that henceforth no Provisions or
other necessaries be sent from this Port to the Army or
Navy at Boston, and that the Committee of Philadelphia
be requested to establish the same restriction, until the
Continental Congress shall give further orders therein.

Ordered, That the above be published.

Ordered. That Mr. Scott, Mr. Van Schaack, and Mr.
McDougall be a Sub-Committee to draft and report an
Answer to Captain Samuel Broome's Address.

Mr. McDougall moved, seconded by Mr. Scott, that a
Sub-Committee be appointed to devise ways and means to
purchase Arms, Ammunition, and Provisions in our exi-
gency, and that they report the same without delay to this
Committee.

Carried unanimously in the affirmative.

Ordered, That Mr. Remsen, Mr. Fan Zandt, Mr. Mc-
Dougall, Mr. Randall, Mr. Lispenard, Mr. Van Dam, Mr.
Sands, Mr. Kissam, Mr. Scott, Mr. Duryee, Mr. Yates
and Mr. Curtenius be a Committee for the above pur-
pose.

The Committee adjourned until to-morrow morning, nine
o'clock.

The Committee met, by adjournment, Tuesday morn-
ing, nine o'clock, May 2, 1775. Present :

Isaac Low, William Gofortli, Cornelius Clopper,

Philip Livingston, Isaac Roosevelt, John Reade,

James Duane, Jacob Van Voorhies, John Van Cortlandt,

Isaac Sears, Jeremiah Piatt, Jacobus Van Zandt,

Alex. McDougall, Comfort Sands, Gerardus Duyckinck,

Thomas Randall, Robert Benson, John Marston,

Leonard Lispenard, William W. Gilbert, Thomas Marston,

William Walton, John Berrian, Richard Sharpe,

John Broome, John De Lancey, Hamilton Young,

Joseph Hallett, Frederick Jay, David Beekman,

Gabriel H. Ludlow, William W. Ludlow, William Soaton,

Nicholas Hoffman, John B. Moore, Nicholas Bogart,

Abraham Walton, Lancaster Burling, William Laight,

Henry Remsen, John Lasher, Samuel Broome,

Peter T Curtenius, George Janeway, John Lamb,

Abraham Brasher, James Beekman, Daniel Phenix,

Abraham P. Lott, Richard Yates, Anthony Van Dam,

Abraham Duryee, Thomas Smith, Daniel Dunscomb,

Joseph Bull, James Desbrosses, John Imlay,

Francis Lewis, Augustus Van Home, Oliver Tcmpleton,

Joseph Totten, Eluazer Miller, Cornelius P. Low,

Thomas Ivers, Garret Kettletas, Thomas Buchannan,

Hercules Mulligan, Benjamin Kissam, Petrus Byvanck.

Theophilus Anthony, John M. Scott,

Mr. Duane moved, seconded by Mr. McDougall, that
the Committee come into the following Resolution, viz :

Resolved, That it be earnestly recommended to every
inhabitant to perfect himself in Military Discipline, and be
provided with Arms, Accoutrements, and Ammunition as
directed by law.

Carried unanimously in the affirmative.

Ordered, That the above Resolve be immediately made
publick by a handbill.

Mr. Goforth moved, seconded by Mr. Lamb, that a
Committee be appointed to move all the Cannon out of
Town that are private property, and to provide every thing
necessary thereto, and that a particular account be taken
of them, and the names of the proprietors.

Carried unanimously in the affirmative.

Ordered, That Captain Sears, Captain Randall, Mr.
Lamb, Mr. A. P. Lott, Mr. Brasher, and Mr. Goforth
be a Sub-Committee for the above purposes. Names
added : Mr. Berrian, Mr. Sands, Mr. Byvanck.

Mr. Lamb, seconded by Mr. McDougall, made a motion
in the words following, viz :

Whereas it is essentially necessary in the present posture
of our affairs, that the true state of this City should be
known in regard to what quantity of Arms and Ammuni-
tion can be procured for our defence :

I move that a Sub-Committee of Inspection be appointed
for that purpose, and to make inquiry of the inhabitants
what Military Stores and Arms they have for their own
use, and for sale, and that the said Committee be desired to
report the same to this Board with all convenient speed.

Which being unanimously agreed to;

Ordered, That the same be referred to the Committees
appointed for carrying about the Association in the differ-
ent Wards, and that the same consist of the following per-
sons, viz :
Montgomerie Ward. — Joseph Bull, John Berrian, David

Beekman, Petrus Byvanck.
South Ward. — Thomas Randall, Frederick Jay, John

Lasher.
Dock Ward. — Gabriel H. Ludlow, Nicholas Hoffman.

Gerardus Duyckinck, and Abraham Brinkerhoff.
West Ward. — Jacob Van Voorhies, Peter T. Curteniui,

William W. Gilbert, John Van Cortlandt.
North Ward. — Captain Fleming, John White, Robert

Benson, John Anthony.
Out Ward. — John M. Scott, George Janeway, Corne-
lius P. Low, Jeremiah Piatt, Benjamin Hclme.
East Ward. — Thomas Ivers, John Imlay, Oliver Tem-
pleton, John Broome, Joseph Hallett, Augustus Van

Home, Daniel Phenix.

Mr. Duane moved, seconded by Mr. McDougall, that
the Committee come into the following Resolution, viz :

Resolved, That an humble Address be presented to his
Honour the Lieutenant-Governour, to explain the motives
which, at this alarming juncture, have obliged the inhabit-
ants to appoint the present Committee for their safety and
preservation, and to assure his Honour that this Committee
will at all times exert their utmost endeavours to promote
good order, and support the Civil Magistrates as far as

471

CORRESPONDENCE, PROCEEDINGS, he, MAY. 1775.

■172

shall be compatible with the melancholy exigency of our
publick affairs.

Carried unanimously in the affirmative.

Ordered, That the following gentlemen be a Committee
for the above purpose, viz : Mr. Duane, Mr. Scott, Mr.
John Jay, Mr. Van Schaack, Mr. klssum, Mr. Mc-
Dougall, Mr. Lotv, and Mr. Leivis.

Resolved, That a Committee of Correspondence and
Intelligence be appointed, and that it consist of the follow-
ing persons, viz: Mr. Low, Mr. I'an Schaack, Mr. Kis-
sam, Mr. Scott, Mr. Jones, Mr. P. V. B. Livingston,
Mr. Van Cortland t and Mr. McDougall, who are desired
to transmit to England, and to the Committees of the prin-
cipal Cities on this Continent, copies of the Association
entered into in this City, with such further acts and resolu-
tions of this Committee for advancing the common cause,
as they shall direct to be published.

The Committee adjourned until to-morrow morning, nine
o'clock.

ASSOCIATION OF NEW-YORK.

New.York, May 4, 1775.

The following Association was set on foot here last
Saturday, April 29, and has been transmitted, for signing,
to all the Counties in the Province, and signed by most of
the men of this City :

" Persuaded that the salvation of the rights and liberties
of America depend, under God, on the firm union of its
inhabitants, in a vigorous prosecution of the measures
necessary for its safety, and convinced of the necessity of
preventing the anarchy and confusion which attend a disso-
lution of the powers of Government : We, the Freemen,
Freeholders, and Inhabitants of the City and County of
New- York, being greatly alarmed at the avowed design of
the Ministry to raise a revenue in America, and shocked
by the bloody scene now acting in the Massachusetts-Bay,
do, in the most solemn manner, resolve never to become
slaves ; and do associate, under all the ties of religion,
honour, and love to our Country, to adopt and endeavour
to carry into execution whatever measures may be recom-
mended by the Continental Congress, or resolved upon by
our Provincial Convention, for the purpose of preserving
our Constitution and opposing the execution of the several
arbitrary and oppressive Acts of the Biitish Parliament,
until a reconciliation between Great Britain and America,
on constitutional principles, (which we most ardently de-
sire,) can be obtained ; and that we will, in all things,
follow the advice of our General Committee respecting the
purposes aforesaid, the preservation of peace and good
order, and the safety of individuals and private property."

GOVEHNOUR WANTON TO THE GENERAL ASSEMBLY OP
RHODE-ISLAND.

Newport, May 2, 1775.

To the General Assembly of the English Colony of
Rhode-Island, &fc, to be held at Providence, within
and for said Colony, on the first Wednesday in May,
1775.

Gentlemen: As indisposition prevents my meeting you
in the General Assembly, that candour I have so often ex-
perienced from the Representatives of the freemen of this
Colony encourages me to hope that you will excuse my
personal attendance at this Session. Since the last Session
of the General Assembly at Providence, I have had the
honour of receiving a letter from the Earl of Dartmouth,
one of His Majesty's principal Secretaries of State, dated
Whitehall, the 3d of March, 1775, enclosing the Resolu-
tion of the House of Commons, respecting the provision
which they expect each Colony or Province in America
to make for the common defence, and also for the civil
Government and the administration of justice in such Colo-
ny, both which I have directed to be laid before you, and
also a letter from the Committee of the Provincial Con-
gress, which are all the publick letters I have received
during the recess.

As the dispute between Great Britain and the Colonies
is now brought to a most alarming, dangerous crisis, and
this once happy Country threatened with all the horrours
and calamities of a civil war, I consider myself bound by

every tie of duty and affection, as well from an ardent
desire to see a union between Britain and her Colonies
established upon an equitable, permanent basis, to entreat
you to enter into the consideration of the Resolution of the
House of Commons, and also bis lordship's Letter which
accompanied that Resolution, with the temper, calmness,
and deliberation which the importance of them demands,
and with that inclination to a reconciliation with the Parent
State which will recommend your proceedings to His Ma-
jesty and both Houses of Parliament.

The prosperity and happiness of this Colony is founded
on its connexion with Great Britain, " for if once we are
separated, where shall we find another Britain to supply
our loss? Torn from the body to which we are united by
Religion, Liberty, Laws, and Commerce, we must bleed
at every vein."

Your Charter privileges are of too much importance to
be forfeited ; you will, therefore, duly consider the inter-
esting matters now before you with the most attentive
caution ; and let me entreat you not to suffer your proceed-
ings for accommodating these disputes, which have already
too long subsisted between both Countries, to have the least
appearance of anger or resentment ; but that a kind, respect-
ful behaviour towards His Majesty and both Houses of
Parliament accompany all your deliberations.

1 shall always be ready to join with you in every mea-
sure which will secure the full possession of our invaluable
Charter privileges to the latest posterity, and prevent the
good people of this Colony from that ruin and destruction
which, in my opinion, some of the orders of the late As-
sembly must inevitably involve them in, if they are not
speedily repealed ; for, besides the fatal consequences of
levying war against the King, the immense load of debt
that will be incurred, if the late Resolutions for raising an
Army of Observation of fifteen hundred men within this
Colony be carried into execution, will be insupportable,
and must unavoidably bring on universal bankruptcy
throughout this Colony.

If I have the honour of being re-elected, I shall, as I
ever have done, cheerfully unite with you in every pro-
ceeding (which may be consistent with that duty and alle-
giance which I owe to the King and the British Constitu-
tion) for increasing the welfare and happiness of this Gov-
ernment.

I am, with great respect and esteem, gentlemen, your
most humble servant, J. Wanton.

PROVIDENCE, RHODE-ISLAND, COMMITTEE TO COMMITTEE
OF SAFETY OF MASSACHUSETTS.

Providence, May 2, 1775.

Sir : The bearer hereof, John Lascell, hath been ap-
pointed by the Committee of Inspection for this Town to
ride as a special post between this and Cambridge, Rox-
bnry, Sic. He will return on Friday next. We have only
to inform you that the General Assembly of this Colony
meet here to-morrow, for the purpose of an annual elec-
tion, &ic, in which session the melancholy situation of your
Colony in particular, and of America in general, will be
seriously attended to. What will be the result, God Al-
mighty only knows ; we wish and expect the best. Should
any thing occur demanding particular notice, you will
please to intimate it.

We are, Sir, with unfeigned affection, your friends and
brethren, James Angell,

J. Varnum,
Ezekl. Cornell.

President Committee of Safety at Cambridge.

EXTRACT OF A LETTER FROM A GENTLEMAN IN CONNEC-
TICUT TO HIS FRIEND IN NEW-YORK, DATED MAY 2,

1775.

I received your esteemed favour of the 21th April, and
observe your fears respecting the times, which are truly
distressing ; however, 1 feel no apprehensions from General
Gage's ever being able to penetrate into the country thus
far, if he was even reinforced with fifty thousand men. In
the last conflict there never was more than two hundred and
fifty men engaged with the Troops, who made out to kill,
wound, and take prisoners, upwards of two hundred of his

473

CORRESPONDENCE, PROCEEDINGS, &c, MAY, 1775.

474

men, with the loss of thirty-seven at most, which would
not have heen even so many, but the ardour of the country
people led them between the flank guards and main body
several times, which exposed them to certain death, being
between two fires.

Our Assembly has sent two gentlemen to General Gage,
to give him to understand that if he means to continue his
hostile proceedings, he must expect all the country armed
against him, determined to repel force with force to the last
man ; and I believe the prudent General will not venture
his bones forty miles out in the country, with all the aid
expected over this summer. The people in this country
and Massachusetts, Sic, are in high spirits, and fear him
not, but wish he would try one expedition more into the
country.

NATHANIEL FREEMAN TO DR. BENJAMIN CHURCH.

Sandwich, May 2, 1775.

Sir: Yours, enclosing the Resolve of the Committee
of Safety, as to securing the boats, &ic, has been received.
I have secured all the boats in this part of the Country
that will be of service to the Colony, and have given Col.
Cobb orders to secure those below, which, I presume, by
this time is done. We hauled the boats ashore, and hid
them in swamps, sand, and wood, which was all that could
be done here. Any farther orders from the honourable
Committee in the cause of God, and my Country, 1 am
ready to execute with the greatest pleasure. And am, Sir,
your very humble servant, Nathl. Freeman.

Doctor Church.

GENERAL THOMAS TO COMMITTEE OF SAFETY.

Roxbury Camp. May 2, 1775.

Gentlemen: In consequence of directions from the
Committee of Safety, I sent an officer, on whom I could
depend, to the house of Governonr Hutchinson, who
brought off all the papers he could find in that house, but
I was informed that Colonel Taylor, of Milton, had lately
taken several trunks out of the Governour's house not many
days ago, in order to save them from being plundered. I
immediately sent another messenger to Colonel Taylor for
all the papers that belong to Governour Hutchinson, which
he had in possession ; he sent me for answer, he did not
know of any papers that belong to Doctor Hutchinson,
but just now comes and informs me that there are several
trunks in his house, which he took as aforesaid, which he
expects will be sent for very soon, and suspects there may
be papers in the trunks ; and if it is thought proper two or
three judicious persons be sent to break open and search
for papers, he will give them his assistance. This, gentle-
men, is submitted to the consideration of the honourable
Committee. I have, gentlemen, the honour to subscribe
myself your most obedient humble servant,

Jno. Thomas.

COMMITTEE OF SAFETY OF MASSACHUSETTS TO THE GOV-
ERNOUR OF CONNECTICUT.

Cambridge, May 2, 1775.
We yesterday had a conference with Dr. Johnson and
Colonel Wolcott, who were appointed by your Assembly
to deliver a letter to, and hold a conference with, General
Gage. We feel the warmest gratitude to you for those
generous and affectionate sentiments which you entertain
towards us. But you will allow us to express our uneasi-
ness on account of one paragrapli in your letter, in which a
cessation of hostilities is proposed. We fear that our breth-
ren in Connecticut are not even yet convinced of the cruel
designs of Administration- against America, nor thoroughly
sensible of the miseries to which General Gage's Army
have reduced this wretched Colony. We have lost the
Town of Boston, and we greatly fear for the inhabitants of
Boston, as we find the General is perpetually making new
conditions, and forming the most unreasonable pretensions
for retarding their removal from that garrison. Our sea-
ports on the eastern coasts are mostly deserted. Our
people have been barbarously murdered by an insidious
enemy, who, under cover of the night, have marched into
the heart of the country, spreading destruction with fire
and sword. No business but that of war is either doue or

thought of in this Colony. No agreement or compact with
General Gage will in the least alleviate our distress, as no
confidence can possibly be placed in any assurances he can
give to a people whom he has first deceived in the matter,
taking possession of and fortifying the Town of Boston, and
whom he has suffered his Army to attack in the most in-
human and treacherous manner. Our relief now must
arise from driving General Gage, with his Troops, out of
the Country, which, with the blessing of God, we are de-
termined to accomplish, or perish in the attempt, as we
think an honourable death in the field, whilst fighting for
the liberties of all America, far preferable to being butch-
ered in our own houses, or to be reduced to an ignominious
slavery.

We must entreat that our sister Colony, Connecticut,
will afford, immediately, all possible aid, as at this time
delay will be attended with all that fatal train of events
which would follow from an absolute desertion of the cause
of American liberty. Excuse our earnestness on this
subject, as we know that upon the success of our present
contest depend the lives and liberties of our Country and

succeeding generations.

We are, &c.

COMMITTEE OF SAFETY TO MR. VOSE, AT MILTON.

Cambridge, May 2, 1775.

I am directed to let you know that Mr. Boycc applied
to this Committee for a prisoner, who is a paper-maker,
and was then at Worcester, and agreed to pay the expenses
of removal, &c. In consequence of this application, the
prisoner has been removed to his mills, but he refuses to
pay the charges, (as Colonel Barrett informs.) The
Committee consider themselves as ill treated, and are de-
termined to remove the prisoner from Mr. Boyce's, and
tender him to you Upon the same conditions, desiring your
immediate attendance. We are, &ic.

RICHARD DERBY, JUN., TO GENERAL WARD.

Ipswich, May 2, 1775, Five o'clock, P. M.

Sir : I am now on my way from Ncwburyport to Salem,
from whence I proposed sending the following advice per
express, but meeting with sn opportunity by one of your
officers, 1 embrace it, and inform you that about two
o'clock this afternoon Captain John Lee arrived at New-
bun/ from Bilboa, in twenty-nine days, and informed
me that on the 14th of last month, in longitude forty-five
degrees from I^ondon, he spoke a vessel from Plymouth,
in England, who informed him that three days before he
parted with a fleet of sixty sail of transports bound for
Boston, under the command of Admiral Lord Howe, hav-
ing on board twelve thousand Hessian Troops. He saw
and read the London papers down to the 12th of March,
from which, and by the Captain of the vessel, he learnt
that twenty-seven Commissioners were on board the fleet,
and that they were directed, if possible, to adjust matters ;
if not, they were ordered to risk every thing to penetrate
into the Country ; if not able to effect this, then to burn
and destroy all in their power. Burgoyne was near sail-
ing, with four thousand Hanoverians, for Quebec]*:, and a
number of regiments are gone to the Southern Colonies.
The Ministry had quieted the Prussian Monarch, by pay-
ing him all his demands. France and Spain had objected
against any Prussians coming this way.

This is the purport of what 1 had from the Captain,
who is a man of veracity. I advised the gentlemen at
Newbury to collect what further they could, and inform
you. Please to inform the Court of this matter. I am, &c,

Richard Derby, Jun.

P. S. Captain Lee could not obtain leave to bring any
English paper, but only to read them.

RICHARD GLOVER TO MATTHEW T1LGHMAN.

London, May 3, 1775.

Sir: The high station which you hold, and the distin-
guished character you bear in your Country, must apolo-
gize for me, who, trusting to your liberal sentiments, use
the freedom of troubling you with this application. It is
suggested by a sense of justice, and the certain knowledge

475

CORRESPONDENCE, PROCEEDINGS, fee, MAY, 1775.

476

that I am singly possessed of the means to vindicate a
friend of yours and mine — 1 mean Mr. Hilliam Molleson,
the most eminent trader to your Province, who hath been
more than once unwarrantably traduced in the American
prints. For these twelve months past, that gentleman,
upon the subject of dispute between this Kingdom and its
Colonies, hath not taken a single step without my privity
and advice. If, therefore, his conduct hath, in any shape,
been erroneous, I am bound in justice to transfer the blame
from him to myself. He was the first person to whom I
imparted, in confidence, my anxiety at the consequences
which I early foreboded from such a dispute. It was about
the beginning of last May. He asked my opinion of call-
ing a general meeting of the Merchants in that season. I
answered in the negative, alleging that the Resolutions of
the Congress to be held in September should first be known,
and the Parliament assembled here, whence the only lights
could proceed to regulate a conduct without doors, which
might promise success ; and for that desirable purpose, all
attempts should be laid aside which might imply the least
mixture of party ; that the subject was too serious and
important for any tincture of that kind, and that the inter-
val should be filled up by his communication of intelligence
to proper quarters from time to time, and endeavour to
lay, if possible, a foundation for conciliatory measures. His
unwearied vigilance and attention to this plan, the weight
which his discreet proceedings acquired, led me once to
hope for a happier issue than, to my grief and disappoint-
ment, I have seen.

The same feelings at length produced impatience in him ;
an earlier meeting of the Merchants than I wished, was
the effect of his zeal. Upon their express invitation, I had
the honour to attend them, and rendered all the little as-
sistance in my power. Mr. Molleson was among the fore-
most in diligence and activity ; and I, who had been his
original adviser and partaker in all his proceedings for such
a length of time, without interruption, must be a competent
witness to the sincerity of his ardour, and his unshaken
fidelity of conduct.

Sir, this narrative of mine deserves some regard, because
I am known not to be under the influence of any party.
What I am, whoever pleases to read may judge. 1 neither
court nor fear any set of men on either side of the Atlan-
tick. Truth is my pursuit ; the prosperity of all my wish ;
and that each may contribute to that end, is my prayer.

As this letter contains no secret, be pleased to use it in
any shape, as may best conduce to its design of defeating
misrepresentation, and of doing justice. I have the honour
to remain, Sir, your most obedient and most humble ser-
vant, Richard Glover.

To the Hon. Matthew Tilghman, Esquire.

EARL OF DARTMOUTH TO THE GOVERNOUR OF GEORGIA.

Whitehall, May 3, 1775.

Sir : I have received your Letters, numbered from 35
to 41, and have laid them before the King.

The grounds upon which Masters of Ships, who were
Midshipmen, and acted as Master's Mates on board the
Fleet in the last war, claim each two thousand acres of
Land, in virtue of the Royal Proclamation, refers to facts
of which I have no official information. Whenever the
Lords of the Admiralty shall, upon a proper application to
them by those claimants, certify the facts on which they
state their claims, I will not fail to receive His Majesty's
pleasure upon their case. In the mean time, the matter
must rest upon the opinion I think very properly adopted
by yourself and the Council.

I have already so repeatedly expressed to you my sen-
timents of the present disorders in America, and the sense
I have of your meritorious conduct, in the prudent and
proper measures you have pursued for preventing, as far
as you are able, the contagion from spreading itself through
the Province of Georgia, that I have nothing to add on
that subject, but to express my wishes that the steps I have
taken for your support will encourage the friends of Gov-
ernment to resist the violences that are threatened, and
preserve the publick peace in all events. I am, Sir, your
most obedient humble servant, Dartmouth.

Sir James Wright, Baronet.

EARL OF DARTMOUTH TO THE GOVERNOUR OF NORTH-
CAROLINA.

Whitehall, May 3, 1775.

Sir : Your Letters of the 26th of January and 10th of
March, numbers 27 and 28, the latter of which 1 received
only yesterday, contain matter of very great importance.

The Addresses from the four Counties of Guilford,
Dobbs, Rowan, and Surry, breathe a spirit of loyalty to
the King, and attachment to the authority of Great Bri-
tain, which cannot be too much encouraged ; and it will be
necessary that you lose no time in acquainting the inhab-
itants of those Counties, that these testimonies of their duty
and affection have been most graciously received by His
Majesty ; that His Majesty will not fail to afford them
those marks of his royal favour which such a meritorious
conduct appears to deserve ; and that, as soon as the neces-
sary forms will admit, His Majesty's clemency towards the
insurgents in 1770, will be extended, in a Proclamation of
general pardon to all, except Herman Husbands. In the
mean time, it is His Majesty's pleasure that you do pursue
every step that may improve so favourable a symptom in
the present state of general phrenzy; and perhaps you
will not find it difficult, through the channel of some res-
pectable persons in those Counties, to procure proper
associations of the people in support of the Government.
Such a measure cannot fail to cast a damp upon the machi-
nations of faction, and disconcert any desperate measure
they may have in contemplation.

1 hope we may yet avoid the fatal necessity of drawing
the sword ; but it is prudent to provide, as far as we are
able, against every possible mischief; and therefore you
will do well to consider in time, whether it may not be
practicable, in such an event, to embody and lead forth, in
support of Government, such of the men in those Coun-
ties as are able to bear arms. If matters should come to
this issue, it is the King's pleasure that you hold out to
gentlemen of interest and leading amongst them, assur-
ances of His Majesty's favour in granting them such com-
missions as shall be suitable to their rank and station ; and
every other encouragement and advantage allowed to any
other troops in His Majesty's service, as far as is consist-
ent with the established rules of the Army.

I confess to you, Sir, that this appears to me to be a
matter of so much importance, that I cannot too earnestly
recommend it to your attention, and that no time may be
lost, in case of absolute necessity.

I have received His Majesty's commands to write to
General Gage, to apprize him of this favourable circum-
stance, and to instruct him that he do, upon application
from you, send some able and discreet officer to you, in
order to concert the means of carrying so essential a service
into effect; and, if necessary, to lead the people forth
against any rebellious attempts to disturb the publick peace.

There are several other matters in your letters which
will require consideration and instruction ; but, as the
mail for Charlestown will be made up to-night, I can
only for the present add, that I am, Sir, your most obe-
dient humble servant, Dartmouth.

His Excellency Gov. Martin, North-Carolina.

AMELIA COUNTY (VIRGINIA) COMMITTEE.

At a meeting of the Committee of the County of Ame-
lia, at the Court-House thereof, on Wednesday, the 3d of
May, 1775:

William Archer, Esquire, was chosen Chairman for
the day.

It appearing to this Committee that the Militia of this
County, since the expiration of the late Militia Laws, hath
been totally neglected ; and it being indispensably neces-
sary for the internal security of the County, that the same
be properly and regularly disciplined, and that Patrollers
in every neighbourhood be constantly kept on duty :

Resolved, That application be made to the Lieutenant
of this County, to direct forthwith a general muster of the
Militia of the County ; that he do his utmost to carry into
execution the Law made in the year 1738, for embodying
and disciplining the Militia of this Colony ; that he give
all the countenance and encouragement in his power to the

477

CORRESPONDENCE, PROCEEDINGS, &c, MAY, 1775.

478

Officers who are recruiting or embodying independent Com-
panies, agreeable to the Resolution of the Convention of
the 25th day of March last.

Resolved, That every member of this Committee open
a subscription for raising half a pound of Gunpowder and
one pound of Lead, by voluntary donation from each til li-
able person in this County, agreeable also to the said Re-
solution of the 25th.

Resolved, That John Tabb and Everard Meade, or
either of those gentlemen, be appointed immediately, to
purchase, for the use of this County, eight hundred pounds
of Gunpowder, and three thousand two hundred pounds of
Lead at least, for which we, and every of us, oblige our-
selves to pay.

Resolved, That every member of this Committee have
in readiness a stand of Arms and Ammunition, agreeable
to the said Resolution of the 25th.

Resolved, That the Ammunition, when purchased, be
lodged in the care of Mr. John Tabb, at his store, Mr.
Thomas G. Peachy, Mr. Samuel Sherwin, Mr. Thomas
fUlliams, Mr. Gabriel Foulkes, Mr. John Pride, with
each one hundred pounds of Powder and four hundred
pounds of Lead ; and with Mr. James Scott, at this Court-
House, two hundred pounds of Powder and eight hundred
pounds of Lead.

Resolved, That publick notice be given to the Free-
holders of this County, to meet and choose Delegates at
next Court, to represent them in Convention for one year.

Resolved, That this Committee be adjourned till the
fourth Thursday in this month.

John Pride, Clerk.

to be assembled at the lower part of this County, ready to
act on any emergency, as may be found necessary.
By order of the Committee :

William Smith, Clerk.

NEW-KENT COUNTY (VIRGINIA) COMMITTEE.

At a meeting of the Committee for New-Kent County,
at the Court-House, the 3d day of May, 1775:

Resolved unanimously, That Lord Dumnore's conduct
in removing the Powder from the Magazine of this Colony
on board an armed vessel, at the time and in the manner
it appears to have been done, was an ill-advised and arbi-
trary step, tending to disquiet the minds, and endanger the
safety of His Majesty's loyal subjects of this Colony in
general, and of the inhabitants of the City of Williams-
burgh in particular.

Resolved, That his Lordship's verbal answer to the Ad-
dress of the Mayor, Aldermen, and Common Council of
the City of Williamsburgh, was unsatisfactory and evasive ;
and that his Lordship's not returning the Powder agreeable
to their request, and the known desire of the people of this
Colony, is a sufficient proof that he was influenced by the
worst motives.

Resolved, That this and other parts of his Lordship's
conduct which have lately transpired, evince him to be an
enemy to liberty and the true interests of this Colony, and
a zealous supporter of tyranny and despotism over the peo-
ple who have the unhappiness to live under his Govern-
ment, and that he has thereby forfeited all title to their
confidence.

Resolved, That the City of Williamsburgh are entitled
to the ready and cheerful assistance of this County, in case
they should be in danger from any invasion or insurrec-
tion.

Resolved, That the thanks of this Committee are due
to the Committee of Hanover, for communicating their Or-
der of the 2d instant ; that this Committee are sensible of
the dangers that threaten us from the Governour's conduct,
as well as from other quarters, and will co-operate with a
majority of the Counties of this Colony in such measures
as shall be adopted for their defence and preservation.

It appearing to this Committee that a body of armed
men from the County of Hanover have marched through
this County, in order to make reprisals upon the King's
property to replace the Gunpowder taken from the Maga-
zine :

Resolved, That such proceedings make it particularly
necessary for the inhabitants of this County to prepare for
their defence, against any dangers that may ensue in conse-
quence of it, by keeping their Arms in the best order, and
the greatest readiness to act on any occasion.

Resolved, That it be rer-ommended to the inhabitants of
this County immediately to form a Company of Volunteers,

CUMBERLAND COUNTY (VIRGINIA) COMMITTEE.

At a meeting of the Committee for Cumberland County,
held on Wednesday, the 3d of May, 1775:

Resolved unanimously, That the thanks of this Com-
mittee, and of all the inhabitants of this County, are justly
due to Captain Charles Scott, and his Independent Com-
pany, for their spirited offers of their service in defending
this Colony against wicked invaders, and their cheerful ap-
pearance at this place to day, in readiness to march forwards
on a late alarm ; and that this Committee, in behalf of
themselves and their constituents, do accordingly present
to the said Captain Scott, and his Company, their most
cordial thanks as aforesaid.

George Carrington, Chairman.

EARL OF DARTMOUTH TO THE GOVERNOUR OF PENN-
SYLVANIA.

Whitehall, May 3, 1775.

Sir: I have received your letter of the 28th of Febru-
ary, and have laid it before the King. I have only to say
that it gave His Majesty great concern to find that there is
yet no appearance in Pennsylvania of a disposition in the
people to return to a just sense of their situation, and of
the fatal consequences of their longer continuing in a state
of disobedience to the authority of the Supreme Legisla-
ture. I am, Sir, your most obedient humble servant,

Dartmouth.

Deputy Governour Penn.

Philadelphia, May 3, 1775.

On Saturday last we had a meeting in this City of the
Military Associators, when it was determined that each
Ward should be formed into one or more Companies ; the
Officers to be chosen in the respective Wards. Two
troops of Light-Horse are now raising. Two companies
of expert Riflemen, and two companies of Artillery-men
are forming. We have six pieces of brass artillery, and
several light iron ones. Our Provincial arms, powder, &c,
are all secured. Three Provincial Magazines are forming.
In short, Mars has established his empire in this populous
City ; and it is not doubted but we shall have, in a few
weeks from this date, four thousand men, well equipped,
for our defence, or for the assistance of our neighbours.

meeting of inhabitants of ACOJJACKANONK, ESSEX

COUNTY, NEW-JERSEY.

At a meeting of the Freeholders and Inhabitants of the
Township of Acquackanonk, in said County, held at Mr.
James Leslie's, near Acquackanonk Bridge, on Wednesday,
the 3d day of May, Anno Domini 1775, an Association
was then and there entered into and subscribed by the
Freeholders and Inhabitants of said Township, being ver-
batim the same as that entered into by the Freeholders
and Inhabitants at Newark, in said County. The following
gentlemen, in number twenty-three, were then chosen or
elected a General Committee, agreeable to said Associa-
tion.

Michael Vreeland, Esq., in the Chair.

Henry Garretse, Peter Peterse, John Berry, Robert
Drummond, Esquires, Captain Francis Post, Thomas Post,
Daniel Niel, Richard Ludlotv, Captain Abraham Godtvin,
John Spier, Jacob Van Riper, Lucas Wessels, Francis
Van Winkle, Cornelius Van Winkle, Henry Post, Junior,
Doctor Walter Degraw, John Peer, Jacob Garretse, Jacob
Vreeland, Abraham Van Riper, Stephen Ryder, Doctor
Nicholas Roche, Committee Clerk.

Of the same number were chosen the following Dele-
gates to attend the Provincial Convention to be held at
Trenton the 23d instant, agreeable to the aforesaid Asso-
ciation, to represent said Township: Henry Garretse,
Robert Drummond, Michael Vreeland, and John Berry,
Esquires.

479

CORRESPONDENCE, PROCEEDINGS, &c, MAY, 1775.

480

Peter Petersc, Esquire, Daniel Niel, Richard Ludlow,
Thomas Post, and Doctor Nicholas Roche, are appointed
a Committee of Correspondence for said Township.

Daniel Niel, Deputy Chairman to the General Commit-
tee, and Richard Ludloiv, Deputy Clerk.

ADDRESS OF ISAAC WII.KINS.

Ww.York, Muy 3, 1775.

My Countrymen: Before I leave America, the land I
love, and in which is contained every thing that is valuable
and dear to me — my wife, my children, my friends, and pro-
party ; permit me to make a short and faithful declaration,
which 1 am induced to do neither through fear, nor a con-
sciousness of having acted wrong. An honest man and
a Christian hath nothing to apprehend from this world.
God is my judge, and God is my witness, that all I have
done, written, or said, in relation to the present unnatural
dispute between Great Britain and her Colonies, pro-
ceeded from an honest intention of serving my Country.
Her welfare and prosperity were the objects towards which
all my endeavours have been directed. They still are the
sacred objects which I shall ever steadily and invariably
keep in view. And when in England, all the influence
that so inconsiderable a man as I am can have, shall be
exerted in her behalf.

It has been my constant maxim through life to do my
duty conscientiously, and to trust the issue of my actions to
the Almighty. May that God in whose hands are all
events, speedily restore peace and liberty to my unhappy
Country. May Great Britain and America be soon united
in the bands of everlasting amity, and when united may
they continue a free, a virtuous, and happy Nation to the
end of time.

I leave America, and every endearing connection, be-
cause I will not raise my hand against my Sovereign, nor
will I draw my sword against my Country ; when 1 can
conscientiously draw it in her favour, my life shall be cheer-
fully devoted to her service. Isaac Wilkins.

NEW-YORK COMMITTEE.

The Committee met, by adjournment, Wednesday morn-
ing, nine o'clock, May 3, 1775. Present :

Isaac Low, Francis Bissett, Garret Kettlctas,

James Duarre, Victor Bicker, Eleazer Miller,

John Alsop, John White, Benjamin Kissam,

John Jay, Theophilus Anthony, Cornelius Clopper,

P. V. B. Livingston, William Goibrth, John Reade,

Alex. McDougall, William Denning, Jacobus Van Zandt,

Thomas Randall, Isaac Roosuvclt, GerardnsDuyckinck,

Leonard Lispenard, Jacob Van Voorhics, Peter Goelet,

William Walton, Jeremiah Piatt, Thomas Marston,

Joseph Hallett, Comfort Sands, Jacobus Lefferts,

Gabriel H. Ludlow, William W. Gilbert, Abram. Brinkerhoff,

Nicholas Hoffman, Gabriel W. Ludlow, Benjamin Helme,

Abraham Walton, Nicholas Roosevelt, Evert Banker,

Peter Van Schaack, Edward Fleming, Robert Ray,

Henry Remson, Frederick Jay, Nicholas Bogart,

Peter T. Curtenius, William W. Ludlow, Samuel Broome,

Abraham Brasher, John B. Moore, John Lamb,

Abraham P. Lott, Rodolphus Ritzma, Daniel Dunscomb,

Abraham Duryec, John Lasher, John Imlay,

Joseph Bull, George Janeway, Oliver Templeton,

Francis Lowis, James Boekmau, Lewis Piutard,

Thomas Ivers, Richard Yates, Cornelius P. Low,

Hercules Mulligan, Thomas Smith, Thomas Buchannan,

John Anthony, Augustus Van Home, Petrus Byvanck.

A Letter dated New- York, May 3, 1 775, from John

Cruger and Jacob Walton, Esquires, received and read,

and is as follows, viz :

New- York, May 3, 1775.

Sir: At the desire of the gentlemen who presented the
Association to us, we have committed to writing our reasons
for not signing it, which we have thought proper to com-
municate to you in order to be laid before the Committee.

It appears to us that signing this paper would involve us
in the greatest inconsistency. As we were elected Repre-
sentatives in General Assembly for this City and County,
we conceive that the faithful performance of this impor-
tant trust requires of us a (ax, unbiased exercise of our
own judgment. To submit this to the control of any power
on earth would, in our opinion, be deserting that trust ; but
to engage implicitly to approve and carry into execution
the regulations of an) other body would justly expose us to
the reproach of our own conscience, the censure not only of

our constituents but of the whole world. In our legislative
capacity we have already transmitted to the King and both
Houses of Parliament, representations of our grievances.
We have, to the utmost of our power, framed these in such
a manner as we thought would be most likely to ensure
them success by procuring a redress of our complaints,
healing the present unhappy differences, and fixing for the
Colonics a permanent Constitution upon principles of liber-
ty and a lasting union with the Mother Country. These
representations were a long lime in agitation, and a state
ol our grievances, with the Resolutions of the House
thereon, were publickly known to our constituents, and no
disapprobation of our proceedings ever signified to us.
Upon mature reflection, and after revolving our conduct
with the most impartial deliberation, we cannot but approve
what we have done, and will therefore patiently wait for
the event, which will, we hope, be productive of much
benefit not only to this Colony, but to the cause of American
liberty in general ; at least we have the fullest testimony
of our consciences for the uprightness of our intentions.

We can with the greatest truth declare our approbation
of any Association for preserving the peace and good
order of the City and Province, and for the protection of
personal safety and private property, and so far are we
from giving the least countenance to the claims of Parlia-
ment to a right of taxing the Colonies, that we will contri-
bute to the utmost of our power in measures necessary for
preventing its being carried into execution. The preserva-
tion of the Constitution, which we are convinced gives us a
right to an absolute exemption from Parliamentary taxation,
we have most ardently at heart, and we shall at all times
strenuously co-operate in opposing every violation of it.
These reasons, with the publick manifestation of our princi-
ples contained in the representation of the General Assem-
bly to the King and Parliament, we are persuaded must be
satisfactory to every reasonable man. But to engage for an
indiscriminate approbation of the measures of others, and
that before we know them, would be to prejudge matters of
the utmost importance, and to preclude us from the exer-
cise of our own judgments, and that free deliberation without
which our legislative powers would be a mere sound, and
thereby to betray a trust which we are under the most
solemn engagements to preserve free and inviolate, and of
which we cannot be divested until the period of the dissolu-
tion of the House. As the signing of this Association,
therefore, would in effect be to deprive ourselves of our
legislative powers, we cannot but suppose, from the tenor
of it, an exemption of us is implied in it.

With the most anxious concern for the distresses of the
inhabitants of the Massachusetts- Bay, and the most sincere-
wishes for their relief, and the liberty and prosperity of all
the Colonies,

We are, Sir, your most humble servants,

John Cruger,
Jacob Walton.
To Mr. Isaac Low, Chairman of the Committee.

Mr. McDougall, seconded by Mr. Duane, made a
motion in the words following :

Whereas this Committee is informed that the Postmas-
ter has discharged the Eastern Post-rider :

I therefore move, Mr. Chairman, that a Sub-Committee
be immediately appointed to wait on the Postmaster, to
know the true state of the matter ; and that they report his
answer in writing.

Ordered, That Colonel Walton and Benjamin Kissam,
Esquires, be a Committee for the above mentioned purpose.

Mr. Lamb, seconded by Mr. Brasher, made a motion
in the words following, viz :

Whereas it has been confidently asserted that a consi-
derable body of the British soldiery are ordered to this
City from England ; in consequence of which a number of
Troops from Connecticut have lately marched into this
City, with a view of aiding and assisting us in preparing
fur our defence :

1 therefore move, that the thanks of this body be imme-
diately presented to the officers and men for their kind
offers of assistance, a conduct that is equally expressive of
their anxious solicitude for our safety, as of a noble zeal in
the service of our common Country, in this day of difficulty
and danger.

48 i

CORRESPONDENCE, PROCEEDINGS, &c, MAY, 1775.

482

Which being unanimously agreed to,

Ordered, That Mr. Lamb, Mr. Brasher, Mr. Ritzma,
Captain Fleming, Captain Sears, Mr. S. Broome, Mr.
Duanc, and Mr. McDougall, be a Committee for the above
purpose.

The Chairman having acquainted this Board that four
gentlemen from Philadelphia were desirous of a confer-
ence with some of the members, on the subject of our
publick affairs at this alarming juncture,

Ordered, That the Committee consist of the following
gentlemen for that purpose, viz : Mr. P. Livingston, Mr.
Remsen, Mr. Lewis, Mr. J. Jay, Mr. Yates, Mr. Low,
Mr. Young, Mr. S. Broome, Mr. P. V. B. Livingston,
Mr. Van Zandt, Mr. A. Walton, Mr. Buchannan, and
Mr. Pintard.

A Letter, dated Neiv-Windsor, 29th April last, signed
by James Clinton and others, inhabitants of Ulster County,
was presented to this Committee by Mr. Robert Boyd,
Jun., requiring our advice and assistance in procuring
Arms and Ammunition for their poor.

Resolved, That this Committee do earnestly recom-
mend it to the gentlemen who have subscribed the said
letters, and to their fellow-subjects in general, to adopt and
sign an Association similar to that which has so cheerfully
and generally been entered into by the inhabitants of the
City, and to perfect themselves in military discipline as
soon as possible ; that with respect to purchasing Arms, this
Committee will give all the advice in their power, but it
will be necessary to raise money for that purpose by vo-
luntary contributions in their County for equipping their
poor inhabitants.

The Committee appointed to wait on the Postmaster
to inquire whether he had discharged the Eastern Post-
rider,

Report, that they have waited on him accordingly, and
upon asking the Postmaster whether he had discharged
the said Post-rider, he answered he had, and assigned the
following reasons for doing it, viz : That the four last mails
between New-York and Boston have been stopped, the
mails broken open, many of the letters taken out and pub-
lickly read, some of which were detained and others sent
open to the General Post Office in this City, and that the
riders informed him that it was not safe for them to travel
with the mail ; in consequence of which, they were dis-
missed by him until they could carry the mail with safety
as heretofore. And we report also, that on Mr. Foxcroft's
request, we left with him the order of this Committee,
which was certified by the Chairman.

Ordered, That the subject-matter of this Report be
referred to the Committee of Correspondence and Intelli-
gence, and that they make a report thereof at the next
meeting of this Committee.

The Committee adjourned to to-morrow morning, nine
o'clock.

The Committee met, by adjournment, Thursday morn-
ing, nine o'clock, 4th May, 1775. Present:

Isaac Low, John White, John M. Scott,

James Duane, Theophilus Anthony, Cornelius Clopper,

P. V. B. Livingston, William Goforth, Jacobus Van Zandt,

Isaac Sears, Jeremiah Piatt, Jacobus Lefferts,

Alex. McDougall, Robert Benson, Richard Sharpe,

Thomas Randall, John Herrian, Hamilton Young,

Leonard Lispenard, Gabriel W. Ludlow, Abram. Brinkerhoff,

Gabriel H. Ludlow, Nicholas Roosevelt, Evert Banker,

Nicholas Hoffman, Frederick Jay, Robert Ray,

Abraham Walton, William W. Ludlow, Anthony Van Dam,

Henry Remsen, John B. Moore, Daniel Dunscomb,

Peter T. Curtenius, John Lasher, John Imlay,

Abraham P. Lott, George Janeway, Oliver Templeton,

Francis Lewis, James Beekman, Lewis Pintard,

Joseph Totten, Richard Yates, Cornelius P. Low,

Hercules Mulligan, Augustus Van Homo, Petrus Byvanck,

Victor Bicker, Eleazer Miller, Thomas Ivers.

Ordered, That Captain Sears, Captain Randall, and
Captain Fleming be a Committee to procure proper judges
to go and view the ground at or near King's Bridge, and
report to this Committee, with all convenient speed, whe-
ther it will answer the purposes intended by it.

Ordered, That the Accounts against the Committee of
Sixty be procured by Mr. Pettit and the Secretary, and
that a return thereof be made to this Committee.

The Committee adjourned until to-morrow morning.

New.York Committee Chamber, May 3, 1775.
The Postmaster having, for the present, discharged the
Eastern Post-riders, the General Committee have directed
us, their Sub-Committee of Intelligence, to devise the best
ways and means for continuing a correspondence with the
Eastern Colonies: It is, therefore, our opinion, that the
present Eastern Post-riders be employed to depart from
this City on the usual days, and to go the usual stages;
and the publick is hereby informed that Mr. Ebenezer
Hazard has undertaken to receive and forward Letters
from this City.

From information received by the Committee from Con-
necticut, it will be necessary (in order to prevent Letters
from being opened by the Committees on the road) that
they be inspected here by some well known member of
the General Committee, and by him endorsed with his
name, as one of the Committee of New- York.

P. V. B. Livingston,
Benj. Kissam,
Alexr. McDougall,
Peter Van Schaack.

GENERAL GAGE TO GOVERNOUR TRUMBULL.

[Read before Congress, May 19, 1775.]

Boston, May 3, 1775.

Sir : I am to acknowledge the receipt of your letter of
the 28th April last, in behalf of the General Assembly of
your Colony, relative to the alarming situation of publick
affairs in this Country, and the late transactions in this
Province.

That this situation is greatly alarming, and that these
transactions are truly unfortunate, are truths to be regretted
by every friend to America, and by every well-wisher for
trie peace, prosperity, and happiness of this Province.
The intimate connexion and strong ties of friendship be-
tween the inhabitants of your Colony and the deluded
people of this Province, cannot fail of inducing the former
to interpose their good offices to convince the latter of the
impropriety of their past conduct, and to persuade them to
return to their allegiance, and to seek redress of any sup-
posed grievances in those decent and constitutional me-
thods, in which alone they can hope to be successful.

That Troops should be employed for the purpose of
protecting the Magistrates in the execution of their duty,
when opposed with violence, is not a new thing in the
English or any other Government. That any Acts of the
British Parliament are unconstitutional or oppressive, I
am not to suppose ; if any such there are, in the apprehen-
sion of the people of this Province, it had been happy for
them if they had sought relief only in the way which the
Constitution, their reason, and their interest, pointed out.

You cannot wonder at my fortifying the Town of Bos-
ton, or making any other military preparations, when you
are assured that, previous to my taking these steps, such
were the open threats, and such the warlike preparations
throughout this Province, as rendered it my indispensable
duty to take every precaution in my power for the protec-
tion of His Majesty's Troops under my command against
all hostile attempts.

The intelligence you seem to have received, relative to
the late excursion of a body of Troops into the Country,
is altogether injurious, and contrary to the true state of
facts. The Troops disclaim with indignation the barbarous
outrages of which they are accused, so contrary to their
known humanity. I have taken the greatest pains to dis-
cover if any were committed, and have found examples of
their tenderness, both to the young and the old ; but no
vestige of their cruelty or barbarity. It is very possible
that in firing into houses, from whence they were fired
upon, that old people, women, or children, may have
suffered ; but if any such thing has happened, it was in
their defence, and undesigned.

I have no command to ravage and desolate the Country ;
and were it my intention, I have had pretence to begin it
upon the sea-ports, who are at the mercy of the fleet. For
your better information, I enclose you a narrative of that
affair, taken from gentlemen of indisputable honour and
veracity, who were eye-witnesses of all the transactions of
that day. The leaders here have taken pains to prevent
any account of this affair getting abroad but such as they

Fourth Series. — Vol. 11.

31

483

CORRESPONDENCE, PROCEEDINGS, &c, MAY, 1175.

184

have thought proper to publish themselves ; and to that
end the post has been stopped, the mails broke open, and
letters taken out ; and by these means the most injurious
and inflammatory accounts have been spread throughout
the Continent, which has served to deceive and. inflame the
minds of the people.

When the Resolves of the Provincial Congress breathed
nothing but war ; when those two great and essential pre-
rogatives of the King, the levying of Troops and disposing
of the Publick Moneys, were wrested from him ; and when
magazines were forming, by an assembly of men unknown
to the Constitution, for the declared purpose of levying
war against the King, you must acknowledge it was my
duty, as it was the dictate of humanity, to prevent, if possi-
ble, the calamities of a civil war, by destroying such maga-
zines. This, and this alone, I attempted.

You ask, why is the Town of Boston now shut up ? I
can only refer you for an answer to those bodies of armed
men who now surround the Town, and prevent all access
to it. The hostile preparations you mention, are such as
the conduct of the people of this Province has rendered it
prudent to make, for the defence of those under my com-
mand. You assure me the people of your Colony abhor
the idea of taking arms against the Troops of their Sover-
eign ; I wish the people of this Province (for their own
sakes) could make the same declaration.

You inquire, is there no way to prevent this unhappy
dispute from coming to extremities ? Is there no alterna-
tive but absolute submission, or the desolations of war? I
answer, I hope there is. The King and Parliament seem
to hold out terms of reconciliation, consistent with the
honour and interest of Great Britain, and the rights and
privileges of the Colonies. They have mutually declared
their readiness to attend to any real grievances of the Colo-
nies, and to afford them every just and reasonable indul-
gence which shall, in a dutiful and constitutional manner,
be laid before them ; and His Majesty adds, it is his ardent
wish that this disposition may have a happy effect on the
temper and conduct of his subjects in America. I must
add, likewise, the Resolution of the 27th February, on the
grand dispute of taxation and revenue, leaving it to the
Colonies to tax themselves, under certain conditions. Here
is surely a foundation for an accommodation, to people who
wish a reconciliation rather than a destructive war be-
tween Countries so nearly connected by the ties of blood
and interest ; but I fear the leaders of this Province have
been, and still are, intent only on shedding blood.

I am much obliged by your favourable sentiments of my
personal character, and assure you, as it has been my con-
stant wish and endeavour hitherto, so I shall continue to
exert my utmost efforts to protect all His Majesty's liege
subjects under my care in their persons and property. You
ask, whether it will not be consistent with my duty to sus-
pend the operations of war on my part ? 1 have commenced
no operations of war, but defensive ; such you cannot wish
me to suspend, while I am surrounded by an armed Coun-
try, who have already begun, and threaten further to prose-
cute an offensive war, and are now violently depriving me,
the King's Troops, and many others of the King's subjects
under my immediate protection, of all the conveniences and
necessaries of life, with which the Country abounds. But
it must quiet the minds of all reasonable people, when I
assure you that I have no disposition to injure or molest
quiet and peaceable subjects ; but on the contrary, shall
esteem it my greatest happiness to defend and protect them
against every species of violence and oppression.

I am, with great regard and esteem, Sir, your obedient
and humble servant, Thos. Gage.

The Hon. Governour Trumbull.

TO THE PRINTER OF THE MASSACHUSETTS SPY.

Mr. Thomas : The piece in your last, signed Tliomns
Gage, is replete with such notorious falsehoods, calumny,
and evasion, that I scarce know whether it admits of any
animadversion, to make it appear most false, abusive, and
irritating to every honest mind ; neither would it come into
my heart to say any thing upon it, were it not that there
are, even to this day, those that will speak so far favour-
ably of him as to suggest that they do not think it is his
doings so much as some others, that things are carried

is under a necessity of doing
endanger his own life to his

on as they are ; and he
as he does, or he would
master, Sic.

Let us, then, take a short view of what he has done, and
see whether we have any reason to conceive a favourable
opinion of him, any thing better than that he is a most in-
imical, malicious, and blood-thirsty man. It is well known
what a calumniating, malicious letter he sent to England
about this Province, when Bernard was Governour here ;
that was certainly a most officious piece of malice ; he was
under no necessity of doing that. It is as manifest that he
knew what he was undertaking when he came over last
year, that it was to carry most arbitrary, unrighteous
schemes into execution. Let it be that he was persuaded
to believe that he should meet with no very powerful oppo-
sition, and that he would not have undertook, if he had
known what opposition would have been ; this will argue
his baseness, and not any goodness ; a disposition to tram-
ple upon the weak, and to set up power instead of right-
eousness, and to cast truth to the ground. As soon as he
arrived, the first specimen of his goodness was to strike out
thirteen Counsellors, very worthy men. Soon after this he
dissolved the General Assembly, without even suffering
them to have any pay for their service.

The next thing he did remarkable, was his sending in
the night and plundering the magazine at Cliarhstown.
Soon after this he went to intrenching and fortifying upon
the Neck, and it would be tedious to enumerate all the
falsehoods he publickly told about this to President Ran-
dolph, to the Town of Boston, and to sundry Committees ;
telling them that he was not about to hurt the Town by it,
to stop the avenues ; that he could not fortify it stronger
than nature had formed, &.c, &c. It would be endless to
enumerate all the robberies, abuses, and insults, which his
Troops have committed against the inhabitants of Boston,
and passengers ; the tarring and feathering, quarrelling
with the watch, shooting at children passing quietly in the
street, violently taking away men's substance from them
and detaining it, knocking them down and leaving them
half dead; all this before the Concord expedition, and all
justified by the humane Thomas Gage. As to the Con-
cord expedition and Lexington battle, they are too well
known by the publick to be the most barbarous, savage
conduct of the Troops, to admit of any illustration. The
most barbarous Indians, I presume, would be ashamed of
such conduct. It is not to be wondered that his Troops
deny what they have done ; -for it is no new proverb that
they who steal will lie, and much more ; they that rob will
murder, in a most savage manner; and Thomas Gage owns,
in his letter, that he sent out his men to destroy, and yet
says he has " commenced no war but defensive !"

Upon the whole, it is the well known character of the
Devil to deceive by fair pretences, lie, and destroy ; which
character is most amply exemplified in what is above
related. But the Devil did speak the truth twice — I do
not know that this man has once ; so I will leave him for
the present.

CERTIFICATE TO EBENEZER BRADISH, JUNIOR, ESQUIRE,
OF CAMBRIDGE.

Cambridge, May 3, 1775.

Whereas Ebenezer Bradish, Jun., Esq., of Cambridge,
has been represented as a person unfriendly to the just
rights and liberties of his Country, and by withdrawing him-
self from Cambridge and retiring to Boston, on the day of
the late unhappy commencement of hostilities between the
Troops under the command of General Gage and the in-
habitants of this Province, he has increased the publick
suspicions against him, whereby he is rendered more odious
and disagreeable to his countrymen :

Therefore, to remove from the minds of our beloved
friends and countrymen all groundless apprehensions, and to
do justice to Mr. Bradish, we, the subscribers, having
made due inquiry into the cause of his going to Boston at
the time aforesaid, and of his conduct since, do say that we
are satisfied that Mr. Bradish had no desire by that means
to do any injury to his Country, but on the contrary his
design was friendly, and his conduct justifiable ; and we
recommend it to all persons to conduct towards Mr. Bra-
dish as a gentleman who is not unfriendly to the rights and

485

CORRESPONDENCE, PROCEEDINGS, &c, MAY, 1775.

486

privileges of his countrymen, so far as we are able to dis-
cover, upon strict inquiry into his late conduct.

Seth Pomeroy, General, of Northampton.
Thomas Legate, Colonel, of Leominster.
Elisha Porter, Colonel, of Hadley.
John Patterson, Colonel, of Lenox.
Henry Herrick, Colonel, of Beverly.
Levi Shephard, Major, of Northampton.
Jonathan W. Austin, Major, of Chelmsford.
Thomas Williams, Captain, of Stockbridge.
Ebenezer Sayer, Colonel, of Wells.
Jesse Leavenworth, of New-Haven.

N. B. Whereas a report has been unjustly spread abroad
that it was not the Regulars but our people who took the
goods lost out of my house ; this is to certify to all good
people, that the said report is false, and never came from
me, and that 1 am certain my house was not only shot at
but plundered by the Regulars. Ebenezer Brajjish.

May 11, 1775.

ORDERS TO BENEDICT ARNOLD.
In Committee of Safety, Cambridge, May 3, 1775.

Sir : Coufiding in your judgment, fidelity, and valour,
we do, by these presents, constitute and appoint you Colo-
nel and Commander-in-Chief over a body of men not ex-
ceeding four hundred. Proceed with all expedition to the
western parts of this and the neighbouring Colonies, where
you are directed to enlist those men, and with them forth-
with to march to the Fort at Ticonderoga, and use your
best endeavours to reduce the same, taking possession of
the cannon, mortars, stores, inc., also the vessel and the
other cannon and stores upon the Lake. You are to bring
back with you such of the cannon, mortars, stores, &c, as
you shall judge may be serviceable to the Army here, leav-
ing behind what may be necessary to secure that post, with
a sufficient garrison. You are to procure suitable provi-
sions and stores for the Army, and draw upon the Commit-
tee of Safety for the same, and to act in every exigency
according to your best skill and discretion for the publick
interest, for which this shall be your sufficient warrant.
Benjamin Church, Chairman Com. of Safety.

By order : Wm. Cooper, Secretary.

To Benedict Arnold, Esquire, Commander of a body of
Troops on an expedition to subdue and take possession
of the Fort of Ticonderoga, &c.

Weymouth, May 3, 1775.
To the Honourable Committee of Safety now sitting at
Cambridge, the Petition of the Selectmen of Brain-
tree, Weymouth, and Hingham, humbly showeth:

That the several Towns to which they respectively be-
long are in a defenceless state, and, as we apprehend, in
great danger of an attack from the Troops now in Boston,
or from the Ships in the harbour, more especially as they
are now or soon will be in want of fresh provisions. That
we have been at the trouble and expense of keeping up a
military watch in each Town for this fortnight past, an
expense which we are by no means able to bear, and which
is no real defence to us ; besides all that has been said, the
inhabitants of said Towns have been, and are still likely to
be in our present situation, almost constantly kept in a tu-
mult and disorder, and unable to keep about their business,
to their great damage.

Your Petitioners, therefore, humbly pray your Honours to
take our distressed state into your wise and serious consid-
eration, and grant us at least the return of those men that
have enlisted in the service from our several Towns, or such
other relief and protection as in your wisdom you shall
think fit ; and your Petitioners, as in duty bound, shall ever
pray. James Peniman, ^

Norton Quincy, I Selectmen of
Edmund Soper, [ Braintree.
Jonathan Bass, J

James Humphrey, "1 P 7 , r

a ir I selectmen of

Saml. Kingman, ^ W ^

Lbr. Colson, J '

Benj. Cushing, ) Selectmen of

Joseph Andrews, £ Hingham.

New-Castle, May 3, 1775.
To the Honourable John Hancock, Esquire, President,
and the Honourable the other Members of Congress for
the Province of the Massachusetts-Bay, in Concord
assembled, the Petition of James Cargill humbly
showeth :

That your Petitioner was chosen yesterday to take com-
mand of the Liberty -men in New- Castle, and on viewing
their state finds them almost destitute of ammunition, and
chiefly unable to supply themselves, as their greatest de-
pendance was on lumber trade, which is now stopped ; and
we find there is no town stock to supply them, and those
of them that would gladly buy for themselves know not
where it is to be had. Therefore prays that you would take
our condition into your wise consideration, and if in your
wisdom you should judge it best to grant us any supply out
of the publick stock, that you would send it to us by the
bearer, Lieutenant John Farley ; and your Petitioner, as in
duty bound, shall ever pray, &.c. James Cargill.

To the Honourable Provincial Congress of Massachu-
setts-Bay, in Congress assembled, May, 1775 :
May it please your Honours :

The Association in Eastham (which, at present, consists
of about ninety persons, and is increasing) finding the Town
of Eastham (though urged thereto) have not complied with
the Resolve made and passed in Provincial Congress, at
Concord, the 31st of March, 1775, in regard to paying in
their money to the Receiver-General, immediately called
a meeting of the Association, voted to hire what money
was not collected of the Association, and have accordingly
paid in the whole of our part of the Province Tax to the
Constables, viz : Captain Job Crocker, who was Collector
for the year 1774, and Mr. Jonathan Linnelye, the third,
who is Collector for the present year. As they are both
members of this Association, they have engaged to trans-
mit the same to Henry Gardner, Esquire, of Stow, with-
out delay.

N. B. It is voted by the Association, as their desire,
that the Orders, Resolves, and Recommendations of the
Provincial Congress for this Town may be directed in fu-
ture to some one of this Committee, as they are not always
made publick if they fall into the hands of some men in
this Town. Per order of the Association :

Thomas Paine,

Isaac Sparrow,

Thomas Twining,

Heman Linnell,

John Davis.

Committee of
Correspondence.

PROVINCIAL CONGRESS OF MASSACHUSETTS TO THE CON-
TINENTAL CONGRESS.
[Read in Congress, May 11, 1775.]

In Provincial Congress, Watertown, )
May 3, 1775. $

To the Honourable American Continental Congress, to be

convened at Philadelphia on the tenth of May instant.

May it please youk Honours : The Congress of this
Colony, impressed with the deepest concern for their Coun-
try, under the present critical and alarming state of its
publick affairs, beg leave, with the most respectful submis-
sion whilst acting in support of the cause of America, to
request the direction and assistance of your respectable
Assembly.

The enclosed packet, containing the copies of Deposi-
tions which we have despatched for London, also an Ad-
dress to the Inhabitants of Great Britain, and a Letter to
our Colony Agent, Benjamin Franklin, Esq., are humbly
submitted to your consideration.

The sanguinary zeal of the Ministerial Army to ruin and
destroy the inhabitants of this Colony, in the opinion of
this Congress, hath rendered the establishment of an Army
indispensably necessary. We have accordingly passed an
unanimous resolve for thirteen thousand six hundred men
to be forthwith raised by this Colony, and proposals are
made by us to the Congress of New-Hampshire, and Gov-
ernments of Rhode-Island and Connecticut Colonies, for
furnishing men in the same proportion.

487

CORRESPONDENCE, PROCEEDINGS, fee, MAT, 17:5.

488

The sudden exigency of our publick affairs precluded
the possibility of waiting for your direction in these impor-
tant measures, more especially as a considerable reinforce-
ment from Great Britain is daily expected in this Colony,
and we are now reduced to the sad alternative of defending
ourselves by arms, or submitting to be slaughtered.

With the greatest deference we beg leave to suggest that
a powerful Army, on the side of America, hath been con-
sidered by this Congress as the only means left to stem the
rapid progress of a tyrannical Ministry. Without a force
superiour to our enemies, we must reasonably expect to be-
come the victims of their relentless fury; with such a force
we may still have hopes of seeing an immediate end put to
the inhuman ravages of mercenary Troops in Americu, and
the wicked authors of our miseries brought to condign
punishment, by the just indignation of our brethren in
Great Britain.

We hope that this Colony will at all times be ready to
spend and be spent in the cause of America. It is never-
theless a misfortune greatly operating to its disadvantage,
that it has a great number of sea-port towns exposed to
the approach of the enemy by sea, from many of which
the inhabitants have removed, and are now removing their
families and effects to avoid destruction from ships of war.
These, we apprehend, will be generally distressed from
want of subsistence, and disabled from contributing aid for
supporting the forces of the Colony, but we have the
greatest confidence in the wisdom and ability of the Con-
tinent to support us, so far as it shall appear necessary for
supporting the common cause of the American Colonies.

We also enclose several Resolves [passed this day] for
empowering and directing our Receiver-General to borrow
the sum of one hundred thousand Pounds, lawful money,
and to issue his notes for the same, it being the only
measure which we could have recourse to for supporting
our forces ; and we request your assistance in rendering
our measures effectual, by giving our notes a currency
through the Continent.

Jos. Warren, President pro tern.

In Provincial Congress, Watertown, )
April 26, 1775. $

To the Inhabitants of Great Britain :

Friends and Fellow-Subjects: Hostilities are at
length commenced in this Colony by the Troops under com-
mand of General Gage ; and it being of the greatest im-
portance that an early, true, and authentick account of this
inhuman proceeding should be known to you, the Congress
of this Colony have transmitted the same, and from want
of a session of the honourable Continental Congress, think
it proper to address you on the alarming occasion.

By the clearest depositions relative to this transaction, it
will appear that on the night preceding the nineteenth of
April instant, a body of the King's Troops, under com-
mand of Colonel Smith, were secretly landed at Cambridge,
with an apparent design to take or destroy the military and
other stores provided for the defence of this Colony, and
deposited at Concord; that some inhabitants of the Colony,
on the night aforesaid, whilst travelling peaceably on the
road between Morton and Concord, were seized and greatly
abused by armed men, who appeared to be officers of Gene-
ral Gage's Army ; that the Town of Lexington by these
means was alarmed, and a company of the inhabitants mus-
tered on the occasion ; that the Regular Troops, on their
way to Concord, marched into the said Town of Lexing-
ton, and the said Company, on their approach, began to
disperse ; that notwithstanding this, the Regulars rushed on
with great violence, and first began hostilities by firing on
said Lexington Company, whereby they killed eight and
wounded several others; that the Regulars continued their
fire until those of said Company, who were neither killed
nor wounded, had made their escape ; that Colonel Smith,
with the detachment, then marched to Concord, where a
number of Provincials were again fired on by the Troops,
two of them killed, and several wounded, before the Pro-
vincials fired on them ; and that these hostile measures of
the Troops produced an engagement that lasted through
the day, in which many of the Provincials, and more of the
Regular Troops, were killed and wounded.

To give a particular account of the ravages of the

Troops as they retreated from Concord to Charlestown,
would be very difficult, if not impracticable; let it suffice
to say, that a great number of the houses on the road were
plundered and rendered unfit for use; several were burnt;
women in childbed were driven by the soldiery naked into
the streets ; old men, peaceably in their houses, were shot
dead ; and such scenes exhibited as would disgrace the
annals of the most uncivilized Nation.

These, brethren, are marks of ministerial vengeance
against this Colony, for refusing, with her sister Colonies, a
submission to slavery. But they have not yet detached us
from our Royal Sovereign. We profess to be his loyal
and dutiful subjects, and so hardly dealt with as we have
been, are still ready, with our lives and fortunes, to defend
his person, family, crown, and dignity. Nevertheless, to
the persecution and tyranny of his cruel Ministry we will
not tamely submit ; appealing to Heaven for the justice of
our cause, we determine to die or be free.

We cannot think that the honour, wisdom, and valour of
Britons will suffer them to be longer inactive spectators
of measures in which they themselves are so deeply in-
terested ; measures pursued in opposition to the solemn
protests of many noble Lords, and expressed sense of con-
spicuous Commoners, whose knowledge and virtue have
long characterized them as some of the greatest men in the
Nation ; measures executing contrary to the interest, Pe-
titions, and Resolves of many large, respectable, and opu-
lent Counties, Cities, and Boroughs, in Great Britain;
measures highly incompatible with justice, but still pursued
with a specious pretence of easing the Nation of its burden ;
measures which, if successful, must end in the ruin and
slavery of Britain, as well as the persecuted American
Colonies.

We sincerely hope that the great Sovereign of the Uni-
verse, who hath so often appeared for the English Nation,
will support you in every rational and manly exertion with
these Colonies, for saving it from ruin ; and that in a consti-
tutional connection with the Mother Country, we shall soon
be altogether a free and happy people.

Per order: Jos. Warren, President pro tern.

In Provincial Congress, Watertown, )
April 26, 1775. \

To the Hon. Benjamin Franklin, Esq., London :

Sir : From the entire confidence we repose in your faith-
fulness and abilities, we consider it the happiness of this
Colony that the important trust of agency for it, on this
day of unequalled distress, is devolved on your hands ; and
we doubt not your attachment to the cause of the liberties
of mankind will make every possible exertion in our be-
half a pleasure to you, although our circumstances will
compel us often to interrupt your repose by matters that
will surely give you pain. A single instance hereof is the
occasion of the present letter ; the contents of this packet
will be our apology for troubling you with it. From these
you will see how and by whom we are at last plunged into
the horrours of a most unnatural war. Our enemies, we
are told, have despatched to Great Britain a fallacious
account of the tragedy they have begun ; to prevent the
operation of which to the publick injury, we have engaged
the vessel that conveys this to you as a packet in the service
of this Colony, and we request your assistance in supply-
ing Captain Derby, who commands her, with such neces-
saries as he shall want, on the credit of your constituents
in Massachusetts-Bay. But we most ardently wish that
the several papers herewith enclosed may be immediately
printed and dispersed through every Town in England,
and especially communicated to the Lord Mayor, Alder-
men, and Common Council of the City of London, that
they may take such order thereon as they may think proper ;
and we are confident your fidelity will make such improve-
ment of them as shall convince all who are not determined
to be in everlasting blindness, that it is the united efforts of
both Englands that must save either. But that whatever
price our brethren in the one may be pleased to put on their
constitutional liberties, we are authorized to assure you that
the inhabitants of the other, with the greatest unanimity,
are inflexibly resolved to sell theirs only at the price of
their lives. Signed by order of the Provincial Congress :
Jos. Warren, President pro tcm.

489

CORRESPONDENCE, PROCEEDINGS, &c, MAY, 177').

190

[No. 1.]

Lexington, April 25, li IS.

We, Solomon Brown, Jonathan Loring, and Elijah
Sanderson, all of lawful age, and of Lexington, in the
County of Middlesex, and Colony of the Massacfaisetts-
Bay, in New-England, do testify and declare, that on the
evening of the eighteenth of April instant, heing on the
road between Concord and Lexington, all of us mounted
on horses, we were, about ten of the clock, suddenly sur-
prised by nine persons, whom we took to be regular offi-
cers, who rode up to us mounted and armed, each having
a pistol in his hand ; and after putting pistols to our breasts,
and seizing the bridles of our horses, they swore that if we
stirred another step we should be all dead men ; upon which
we surrendered ourselves. They detained us until two
o'clock the next morning, in which time they searched and
greatly abused us ; having first inquired about the maga-
zine at Concord, whether any guards were posted there,
and whether the bridges were up ; and said four or five
regiments of Regulars would be in possession of the stores
soon. They then brought us back to Lexington, cut the
horses' bridles and girths, turned them loose, and then left us.

Solomon Brown,
Jonathan Loring,
Elijah Sanderson.

Middlesex, April 25, 1775 :

Jonathan Loring, Solomon Brown, and Elijah Sander-
son, being duly cautioned to testify the whole truth, made
solemn oath to the truth of the above deposition, by them
subscribed. Before us, Wm. Reed,

Josiah Johnson,
Wm. Stickney,
Justices of the Peace.

Lexington, April 25, 1775.
I, Elijah Sanderson, above named, do further testify and
declare, that I was in Lexington Common the morning of
the nineteenth of April aforesaid, having been dismissed
by the officers above-mentioned, and saw a large body of
Regular Troops advancing towards Lexington Company,
many of whom were then dispersing. I heard one of the
Regulars, whom I took to be an officer, say, " damn them,
we will have them ;" and immediately the Regulars shouted
aloud, run, and fired on the Lexington Company, which
did not fire a gun before the Regulars discharged on them.
Eight of the Lexington Company were killed while they
were dispersing, and at considerable distance from each
other, and many wounded ; and although a spectator, I nar-
rowly escaped with my life. Elijah Sanderson.

Middlesex, ss., April 25, 1775 :

Elijah Sanderson, above named, being duly cautioned
to testify the whole truth, made solemn oath to the truth
of the above deposition by him subscribed.
Before us, Wm. Reed,

Josiah Johnson,

Wm. Stickney,

Justices of the Peace.

Province of the Massachusetts-Bay, >
Charlestown, ss. 5

I, Nathaniel Gorham, Notary and Tabellion Publick, by
lawful authority, duly admitted and sworn, hereby certify
all whom it doth or may concern, that William Reed, Jo-
siah Johnson, and William Stickney, Esquires, are three
of His Majesty's Justices of the Peace for the County of
Middlesex, and that full faith and credit are to be given to
their transactions as such. In witness whereof I have here-
unto affixed my name and seal, this twenty-sixth day of
April, Anno Domini one thousand seven hundred and
seventy-five.

Nathaniel Gorham, Notary Publkk.

[No. 2.]

Lexington, April 23, 1775.

I, Thomas Price Willard, of lawful age, do testify and
declare, that being in the house of Daniel Harrington, of
said Lexington, on the nineteenth instant, in the morning,
about half an hour before sunrise, looked out of the win-
dow of said house and saw (as I suppose) about four hun-
dred of Regulars, in one body, coming up the road, and

marched toward the north part of the common, back of the
meeting-house of said Lcungtmi : and as soon as said Reg-
ulars were against the east end of the meeting-house, the
commanding officers said something, what 1 know not ; but
upon that the Regulars ran till they came within about
eight or nine rods of about a hundred of the Militia of
Lexington, who were collected on said common, at which
time the Militia of I^exington dispersed ; then the officers
made a huzza, and the private soldiers succeeded them.
Directly after this an officer rode before the Regulars to
the other side of the body, and hallooed after the Militia
of said Lexington, and said, " Lay down your arms, damn
you ; why don't you lay down your arms ?" and that there
was not a gun fired till the Militia of I^txington were dis-
persed. And further saith not.

Thomas Price Willard.

Middlesex, «., April 23, 1775:

The within named Thomas Price Willard personally
appeared, and after due caution to testify the whole truth
and nothing but the truth, made solemn oath to the truth
of the written deposition by him subscribed.
Before us, Wm. Reed,

Jona. Hastings,
Duncan Ingraham,
Justices of the Peace.

Province of Massachusetts-Bay, )
Charlestown, ss. $

I, Nathaniel Gorham, Notary and Tabellion Publick,
duly admitted and sworn, do certify that Wm. Reed, Jona.
Hastings, and Duncan Ingraham, Esquires, are three of
His Majesty's Justices for the County of Middlesex, and
that full faith and credit is to be given to their transactions
as such. In witness whereof I have hereunto affixed my
hand and seal this twenty-sixth of April, one thousand
seven hundred and seventy-five.

Nathaniel Gorham, Notary Publick.

[No. 3.]

Lexington, April 25, 1775.

Simon Winship, of Lexington, in the County of Mid-
dlesex, and Province of Massachusetts- Bay, New-England,
being of lawful age, testifieth and saith, that on the nine-
teenth of April instant, about four o'clock in the morning,
as he was passing the publick road in said Lexington,
peaceably and unarmed, about two miles and a half dis-
tant from the meeting-house in said Lexington, he was
met by a body of the King's Regular Troops, and being
stopped by some officers of said Troops, was commanded
to dismount. Upon asking why he must dismount, he was
obliged by force to quit his horse, and ordered to march in
the midst of the body ; and being examined whether he
had been warning the Minute-Men, he answered no, but
had been out, and was then returning to his father's. Said
Winship further testifies that he marched with said Troops
until he came within about half a quarter of a mile of said
meeting-house, where an officer commanded the Troops
to halt, and then to prime and load. This being done, the
said Troops marched on till they came within a few rods
of Captain Parker's Company, who were partly collected
on the place of parade, when said Winship observed an
officer at the head of said Troops flourishing his sword,
and with a loud voice giving the word fire ; which was in-
stantly followed by a discharge of arms from said Regular
Troops. And said Winship is positive, and in the most
solemn manner declares, that there was no discharge of
arms on either side till the word fire was given by said
officer as above. Simon Winship.

Middlesex, ss., April 25, 1775 :

Simon Winship, above named, appeared, and after due
caution to testify the whole truth, and nothing but the truth,
made solemn oath to the truth of the above deposition by
him subscribed. Wm. Rked,

Josiah Johnson.

Province of the Massachusetts-Bay, >
Charlestown, ss. 5

I, Nathaniel Gorham, Notary and Tabellion Publick,
by lawful authority duly admitted and sworn, hereby certify

491

CORRESPONDENCE, PROCEEDINGS, he, MAY, 1775.

492

all whom it doth or may concern, that Win. Reed and Jo-
siafi Johnson, Esquires, are two of His Majesty's Justices
for the County of Middlesex, and that full faith and credit
is to be given to their transactions as such. In witness
whereof I have hereunto affixed my name and seal this
twenty-sixth day of April, Anno Domini one thousand
seven hundred and seventy-five.

Nathaniel Gorham, Notary Publick.

[No. 4.]

Lexington, April 25, 1775.

1, John Parker, of lawful age, and commander of the
Militia in Lexington, do testify and declare, that on the
nineteenth instant, in the morning, about one of the clock,
being informed that there were a number of Regular Offi-
cers riding up and down the road, stopping and insulting
people as they passed the road, and also was informed that
a number of Regular Troops were on their march from
Boston, in order to take the Province Stores at Concord,
ordered our Militia to meet on the common in said Lexing-
ton, to consult what to do, and concluded not to be dis-
covered, nor meddle or make with said Regular Troops
(if they should approach) unless they should insult us ; and
upon their sudden approach, I immediately ordered our
Militia to disperse and not to fire. Immediately said Troops
made their appearance, and rushed furiously, fired upon
and killed eight of our party, without receiving any provo-
cation therefor from us. John Pakker.

Middlesex, ss., April 25, 1775 :

The above named John Parker personally appeared,
and after being duly cautioned to declare the whole truth,
made solemn oath to the truth of the above deposition, by
him subscribed. Before us, Wm. Reed,

Josiah Johnson,

Wm. Stickney,

Justices of the Peace.

Province of Massachusetts-Bay,
Charlestown, ss.
I, Nathaniel Gorham, Notary and Tabellion Publick,
by lawful authority duly admitted and sworn, hereby certify
all whom it doth or may concern, that Wm. Reed, Josiah
Johnson, and Wm. Stickney, Esquires, are three of His
Majesty's Justices of the Peace for the County of Middle-
sex, and that full faith and credit is and ought to be given
to their transactions as such. In witness whereof I have
hereunto set my name and seal this twenty-sixth day of
April, one thousand seven hundred and seventy-five.

Nath'l Gorham, Notary Publick.

[No. 5.]

Lexington, April 24, 1775.

I, John Robbins, being of lawful age, do testify and say,
that on the nineteenth instant, the Company under the com-
mand of Captain John Parker being drawn up (sometime
before sunrise) on the green or common, and 1 being in
the front rank, there suddenly appeared a number of the
King's Troops, about a thousand, as I thought, at the dis-
tance of about sixty or seventy yards from us, huzzaing
and on a quick pace towards us, with three officers in their
front on horseback, and on full gallop towards us ; the fore-
most of which cried, " Throw down your arms, ye villains,
ye rebels;" upon which said Company dispersing, the
foremost of the three officers ordered their men, saying,
" Fire, by God, fire ; at which moment we received a very
heavy and close fire from them ; at which instant, being
wounded, I fell, and several of our men were shot dead by
one volley. Captain Parker's men, 1 believe, had not then
fired a gun. And further the deponent saith not.

John Robbins.

Middlesex, ss., April 25, 1775 :

I, John Robbins, within named, appeared, and being duly
cautioned to testify the truth, and nothing but the truth,
made solemn oath to the truth of the within deposition,
subscribed by his special order, he being so maimed and
wounded that he thought he could neither write his name
nor make his mark. Before us, Wm. Reed,

Josiah Johnson,
Justices of the Peace.

Province of Massachusetts-Bay,
Charlestown, ss.

I, Nathaniel Gorham, Notary and Tabellion Publick,
by lawful authority duly admitted and sworn, hereby certify
all whom it doth or may concern, that William Reed and
Josiah Johnson, Esquires, are two of His Majesty's Jus-
tices for the County of Middlesex, and that full faith and
credit is to be given to their transactions as such. In wit-
ness whereof I have hereunto affixed my name and seal
this twenty-sixth day of April, Anno Domini one thousand
seven hundred and seventy-five.

Nath'l Gorham, Notary Publick.

[No. 6.]

Lexington, April 25, 1775.
We, Benjamin Tidd, of Lexington, and Joseph Abbott,
of Lincoln, in the County of Middlesex, and Colony of
Massachusetts-Bay, in New-England, of lawful age, do
testify and declare, that on the morning of the nineteenth
of April instant, about five o'clock, being on Lexington
common, and mounted on horses, we saw a body of Regu-
lar Troops marching up to the Lexington Company which
was then dispersing. Soon after the Regulars fired first a
few guns, which we took to be pistols from some of the
Regulars who were mounted on horses, and then the said
Regulars fired a volley or two before any guns were fired
by the Lexington Company. Our horses immediately
started and we rode off. And further saith not.

Benjamin Tidd,
Joseph Abbott.

Middlesex, ss., April 25, 1775 :

Benjamin Tidd and Joseph Abbott above named, being
duly cautioned to testify the whole truth, made solemn oath
to the truth of the above deposition by them subscribed.

Wm. Reed,
Josiah Johnson,
Wm. Stickney,
Justices of the Peace.

Province of Massachusetts-Bay,
Charlestown, ss.

I, Nathaniel Gorham, Notary and Tabellion Publick, by
lawful authority duly admitted and sworn, hereby certify
all whom it doth or may concern, that Wm. Reed, Josiah
Johnson, and William Stickney, Esquires, are three of His
Majesty's Justices of the Peace for the County of Middle-
sex, and that full faith and credit is to be given to their trans-
actions as such. In witness whereof I have hereunto
affixed my name and seal this twenty-sixth day of April.
one thousand seven hundred and seventy-five.

Nathaniel Gorham, Notary Publick.
Charlestown, May 2, 1775.

[No. 7.]

Lexington, April 25, 1775.
We, Nathaniel Mullekin, Philip Russell, Moses Har-
rington, Junior, Thomas and Daniel Harrington, William
Grimer, William Tidd, Isaac Hastings, Jonas Stone, Jr.,
James Wyman, Thaddeus Harrington, John Chandler,
Joshua Reed, Jun., Joseph Simonds, Phineas Smith, John
Chandler, Jun., Reuben Lock, Joel Viles, Nathan Reed.
Samuel Tidd, Benjamin Lock, Thomas Winshipf Simeon
Snow, John Smith, Moses Harrington the third, Joshua
Reed, Ebenezer Parker, John Harrington, Enoch Wil-
lington, John Hosmer, Isaac Green, Phineas Steams,
Isaac Durant, and Thomas Headly, Jun., all of lawful age,
and inhabitants of Lexington, in the County of Middlesex,
and Colony of the Massachusetts-Bay, in New-England,
do testify and declare, that on the nineteenth of April in-
stant, about one or two o'clock in the morning, being
informed that several officers of the Regulars had, the
evening before, been riding up and down the road, and had
detained and insulted the inhabitants passing the same;
and also understanding that a body of Regulars were march-
ing from Boston towards Concord, with intent (as it was
supposed) to take the stores belonging to the Colony in
that Town, we were alarmed; and having met at the place
of our Company's parade, were dismissed by our Captain,
John Parker, for the present, with orders to be ready to
attend at the beat of the drum. We further testify and

493

CORRESPONDENCE, PROCEEDINGS, &c, MAY, 1775.

494

declare, that about five o'clock in the morning, hearing our
drum beat, we proceeded towards the parade, and soon
found that a large body of Troops were marching towards
us. Some of our Company were coming up to the parade,
and others had reached it; at which time the Company
began to disperse. Whilst our backs were turned on the
Troops we were fired on by them, and a number of our
men were instantly killed and wounded. Not a gun was
fired by any person in our Company on the Regulars, to
our knowledge, before they fired on us, and they continued
firing until we had all made our escape.

Nathaniel Mullekin, Joshua Reed, Jr., John Smith,

Philip Russell, Joseph Simonds, Mos. Harrington 3d.,

Mos. Harrington, Jr., Phineas Smith, Joshua Reed,

Thomas Harrington, John Chandler, Jr., Ebenezer Parker,

Diniel Harrington, Reuben Lock, John Harrington,

William Grimer, Joel Viles, Enoch Willington,

William Tidd, Nathan Reed, John Hosmer,

Isaac Hastings, Samuel Tidd, Isaac Green,

Jonas Stone, Jr., Benjamin Lock, Phineas Stearns,

James Wyman, Thomas Winship, Isaac Durant,

Thad. Harrington, Simeon Snow, Thos. Headley, Jr.
John Chandler,

Middlesex, ss., April 25, 1775:

Nathaniel Mullekin, Philip Russell, Moses Harrington,
Jun., Thomas Harrington, Daniel Harrington, William
Grimer, William Tidd, Isaac Hasting, Jonas Stone, Jr.,
James Wyman, Thaddeus Harrington, John Chandler,
Joshua Reed, Jun., Joseph Simonds, Phineas Smith, John
Chandler, Jun., Reuben Lock, Joel Viles, Nathan Reed,
Samuel Tidd, Benjamin Lock, Thomas Winship, Simeon
Snow, John Smith, Moses Harrington, 3d, Joshua Reed,
Ebenezer Parker, John Harrington, Enoch Willbigton,
John Hosmer, Isaac Green, Phineas Stearns, Isaac Du-
rant, and Thomas Headley, Jun., above named, being duly
cautioned to testify the whole truth, made solemn oath to
the above deposition, as containing nothing but the truth as
subscribed by them. William Reed,

Josiah Johnson,
Wm. Stickney,
Justices of the Peace.

Province of Massachusetts-Bay, )
Chablestown, ss. J

I, Nathaniel Gorham, Notary and Tabellion Publick, by
lawful authority duly admitted and sworn, hereby certify
all whom it doth or may concern, that William Reed,
Josiah Johnson and William Stickney, are three of His
Majesty's Justices for the County of Middlesex, and that
full faith and credit is to be given to their transactions as
such. In witness whereof I have hereunto affixed my name
and seal this twenty-sixth day of April, Anno Domini
one thousand seven hundred and seventy-five.

Nathaniel Gorham, Notary Publick.

[No 8.]

Lexington, April 25, 1775.

We, Nathaniel Parkhurst, Jonas Parker, John Mun-
roe, Jun., John Winship, Solomon Peirce, John Muzzy,
Abner Mead, John Bridge, Junior, Ebenezer Bowman,
William Munroe 3d, Micah Hagar, Samuel Sanderson,
Samuel Hastings, and James Brown, of Lexington, in the
County of Middlesex, and Colony of Massachusetts Bay,
in New-England, and all of lawful age, do testify and say,
that on the morning of the nineteenth of April instant,
about one or two o'clock, being informed that a number of
Regular Officers had been riding up and down the road,
the evening and night preceding, and that some of the
inhabitants as they were passing had been insulted by the
officers, and stopped by them ; and being also informed
that the Regular Troops were on their march from Boston,
in order as it was said, to take the Colony Stores then
deposited at Concord, we met on the parade of our Com-
pany in this Town ; and after the Company had collected
we were ordered by Captain John Parker, who com-
manded us, to disperse for the present, and to be ready to
attend the beat of the drum ; and accordingly the Company
went into houses near the place of parade. We further
testify and say, that about five o'clock in the morning, we
attended the beat of our drum, and were formed on the
parade. We were faced towards the Regulars, then march-
ing up to us, and some of our Company were coming to
the parade with their backs towards the Troops, and others

on the parade began to disperse, when the Regulars fired
on the Company before a gun was fired by any of our Com-
pany on them ; they killed eight of our Company, and
wounded several, and continued their fire until we had all
made our escape.

Nath'l Parkhurst,

Jonas Parker,

John Munroe, Jun.,

John Winship,

Solomon Peirce,

John Muzzy,

Abner Mead,

John Bridok, Jin.,
Ebenezer Bowman,
William Munroe 3d.
Micah Hagar,
Samuel Sanderson,
Samuel Hastings,
James Brown.

Middlesex, ss., April 25, 1775 :

Nathaniel Parkhurst, Jonas Parker, John Munroe, Jr.,
John Winship, Solomon Peirce, John Muzzy, Abner Mead,
John Bridge, Jun., Ebenezer Bowman, William Munroe,
third, Micah Hagar, Samuel Sanderson, Samuel Hastings,
and James Brown, above named, being duly cautioned to
testify the whole truth, made solemn oath to the truth of
the above deposition, by them subscribed.

William Reed,
Josiah Johnson,
Wm. Stickney,
Justices of the Peace.

Province of the Massachusetts-Bay, )
Charlestown, ss. 5

I, Nathaniel Gorham, Notary and Tabellion Publick,
by lawful authority duly admitted and sworn, hereby cer-
tify all whom it doth or may concern, that William Reed,
Josiah Johnson, and William Stickney, Esquires, are three
of His Majesty's Justices for the County of Middlesex, and
that full faith and credit is to be given to their transactions
as such. In witness whereof, I have hereunto affixed my
name and seal, this twenty-sixth day of April, Anno
Domini one thousand seven hundred and seventy-five.
Nathaniel Gorham, Notary Publick.

[ No. 9. ]

Lexington, April 25, 1775.

I, Timothy Smith, of Lexington, in the County of Mid-
dlesex and Colony of Massachusetts-Bay, in New-Eng-
land, being of lawful age, do testify and declare, that on
the morning of the nineteenth of April instant, being at
Lexington common as a spectator, I saw a large body of
Regular Troops marching up towards the Lexington Com-
pany, then dispersing, and likewise saw the Regular Troops
fire on the Lexington Company, before the latter fired a
gun. I immediately ran, and a volley was discharged at
me, which put me in imminent danger of losing my life. I
soon returned to the common, and saw eight of the Lex-
ington men who were killed, and lay bleeding, at a con-
siderable distance from each other, and several were wound-
ed ; and further saith not. Timothy Smith.

Middlesex, ss., April 25, 1775 :

Timothy Smith, above named, being duly cautioned to
testify the truth, made solemn oath to the truth of the above
deposition, by him subscribed. William Reed,

Josiah Johnson,
Wm. Stickney.
Justices of the Peace.

Province of Massachusetts-Bay,
Charlestown, ss.
I, Nathaniel Gorham, Notary and Tabellion Publick,
by lawful authority duly admitted and sworn, hereby cer-
tify all whom it doth or may concern, that William Reed,
Josiah Johnson, and William Stickney, Esquires, are three
of His Majesty's Justices for the County of Middlesex,
and that full faith and credit is to be given to their transac-
tions as such. In witness whereof, I have hereunto affixed
my name and seal, this twenty-sixth of April, one thou-
sand seven hundred and seventy-five.

Nathaniel Gorham, Notary Publick.

[ No. 10. ]

Lexington, April 25, 1775.

We, Levi Mead and Levi Harrington, both of Lexing-
ton, in the County of Middlesex, and Colony of Massachu-
setts-Bay, iii New-England, and of lawful age, do testify

495

CORRESPONDENCE, PROCEEDINGS, &c, MAY, 1775.

496

and declare, that on the morning of the nineteenth of April,
being on Lexington common as spectators, we saw a large
body of Regular Troops marching up towards the Lexing-
ton Company, and some of the Regulars on horses, whom
we took to be officers, fired a pistol or two on the Lexing-
ton Company, which was then dispersing. These were
the first guns that were fired, and they were immediately
followed by several volleys from the Regulars, by which
eight men were killed, and several wounded.

Levi Mead,
Levi Harrington.

Middlesex, w., April 25, 1775 :

Levi Harrington and Levi Mead above named being
duly cautioned to testify the whole truth, made solemn oath
to the truth of the above deposition by them subscribed.
Before us, William Reed,

Josiah Johnson,
William Stickney,

Justkes of the Peace.

Province of Massachusetts-Bay,
Charlestown, ss.

I, Nathaniel Gorham, Notary and Tabellion Publick,
duly admitted and sworn, do certify all whom it doth or
may concern, that William Reed, Josiah Johnson, and
William Stickney, Esquires, are three of His Majesty's
Justices of the Peace for the County of Middlesex, and
that full faith and credit is to be given to their transactions
as such. In witness whereof 1 have hereunto affixed my
name and seal this twenty-sixth day of April, Anno Domini
one thousand seven hundred and seventy-five.

Nathaniel Gorham, Notary Publick.

[No. II.]

Lexington, April 25, 1775.
I, William Draper, of lawful age, and an inhabitant of
Colrain, in the County of Hampshire, and Colony of Mas-
sachusetts-Bay, in New-England, do testify and declare,
that being on the parade of said Lexington, April 19th
instant, about half an hour before sunrise the King's Regu-
lar Troops appeared at the meeting-house of Lexington.
Captain Parker's Company, who were drawn up back of
said meeting-house on the parade, turned from said
Troops, making their escape by dispersing ; in the mean
time the Regular Troops made a huzza and ran towards
Captain Parkers Company, who were dispersing, and im-
mediately after the huzza was made the commanding
officer of said Troops (as I took him) gave the command
to the said Troops, " Fire ! fire ! damn you, fire !" and im-
mediately they fired before any of Captain Parker's Com-
pany fired, I then being within three or four rods of said
Regular Troops ; and further saith not.

William Draper.

Middlesex, ss., April 25th, 1775:

William Draper, above named, being duly cautioned to
testify the whole truth, made solemn oath to the truth of
the above deposition by him subscribed. Before us,

William Reed,
Josiah Johnson,
William Stickney,

Justices of the Peace.

Province of Massachusetts-Bay,
Charlestown, ss.

I, Nathaniel Gorham, Notary and Tabellion Publick, by
lawful authority duly admitted and sworn, hereby certify
to all whom it doth or may concern, that William Reed,
Josiah Johnson, and William Stickney, Esquires, are three
of His Majesty's Justices for the County of Middlesex, and
that full faith and credit are to be given to their transac-
tions as such. In witness whereof I have hereunto affixed
my name and seal this twenty-sixth day of April, one
thousand seven hundred and seventy-five.

Nathaniel Gorham, Notary Publick.

[No. 12.]

Lexington, April 23, 1775.

I, Thomas Fcssenden, of lawful age, testify and declare,
that being in a pasture near the meeting-house at said

L< i ington, on Wednesday last, at about half an hour before
sunrise, I saw a number of Regular Troops pass speedily
by said meeting-house on their way towards a Company
of Militia of said Lexington, who were assembled to the
number of about one hundred in a Company at the distance
of eighteen or twenty rods from said meeting-house, and
after they had passed by said meeting-house, I saw
three officers on horseback advance to the front of said
Regulars, when one of them being within six rods of the
said Militia, cried out " Disperse, you rebels, immediately;"
on which he brandished his sword over his head three
times; meanwhile the second officer, who was about two
rods behind him, fired a pistol pointed at said Militia, and
the Regulars kept huzzaing till he had finished brandishing
his sword, and when he had thus finished brandishing his
sword, he pointed it down towards said Militia, and imme-
diately on which the said Regulars fired a volley at the
Militia, and then I ran off" as fast as I could, while they con-
tinued firing till I got out of their reach. I further testify,
that as soon as ever the officer cried " Disperse, you
rebels," the said Company of Militia dispersed every way
as fast as they could, and while they were dispersing the
Regulars kept firing at them incessantly, and further saith
not. Thomas Fessenden.

Middlesex, ss., April 23, 1775 :

The within named Thomas Fessenden appeared, and
after due caution to testify the whole truth and nothing but
the truth, made solemn oath to the truth of the within de-
position by him subscribed.

Before us, William Reed,

Josiah Johnson,
William Stickney,

Justices of the Peace.

Province of the Massachusetts-Bay,
Charlestown, ss.
I, Nathaniel Gorham, Notary and Tabellion Publick, by
lawful authority duly admitted and sworn, hereby certify
to all whom it may or doth concern, that William Reed,
Josiah Johnson, and William Stickney, Esquires, are three
of His Majesty's Justices of the Peace for the County of
Middlesex, and that full faith and credit is to be given to
their transactions as such. In witness whereof I have here-
unto affixed my hand and seal this twenty-sixth day of
April, Anno Domini one thousand seven hundred and
seventy-five.

Nathaniel Gorham, Notary Publick.

[No. 13.]

I, John Bateman, belonging to the Fifty-Second Regi-
ment, commanded by Colonel Jones, on Wednesday morn-
ing on the nineteenth day of April instant, was in the
party marching to Concord, being at Lexington, in the
County of Middlesex; being nigh the meeting-house in
said Lexington, there was a small party of men gathered
together in that place when our Troops marched by, and I
testify and declare, that I heard the word of command given
to the Troops to fire, and some of said Troops did fire,
and I saw one of said small party lay dead on the ground
nigh said meeting-house, and 1 testify that 1 never heard
any of the inhabitants so much as fire one gun on said
Troops. John Bateman.

Middlesex, ss., April 23, 1775 :

The above named John Bateman voluntarily, being
previously cautioned to relate nothing but the truth, made
solemn oath to the above deposition by him subscribed.
Before us, John Cummings,

Duncan Ingraham,
Justices of the Peace.

Province of the Massachusetts-Bay, )
Charlestown, ss. )

I, Nathaniel Gorham, Notary and Tabellion Publick.
duly admitted and sworn, do certify that John Cummings
and Duncan Ingraham, Esquires, are two of His Majes-
ty's Justices of the Peace for the County of Middlesex,
and that full faith and credit is to be given to their transac-
tions as such. In witness whereof I have hereunto affixed

497

CORRESPONDENCE, PROCEEDINGS, &c, MAY, 1775,

•198

my name ami seal this twenty-sixth day of April, one thou-
sand seven hundred and seventy-five.

Nath'l Gorham, Notary Publick.

[No. 14.]

Lexington, April 23, 177").

We, John Hoar, John Whitehead, Abraham Garfield,
Benjamin Munroe, Isaac Parks, William Hosmer, John
Adams, and Gregory Stone, all of Lincoln, in the County
of Middlesex, Massachusetts- Bay, all of lawful age, do
testify and say, that on Wednesday last we were assembled
at Concord in the morning of said day, in consequence of
information received that a Brigade of Regular Troops
were on their march to the said Town of Concord, who
had killed six men at the Town of Lexington. About an
hour afterward we saw them approaching to the number,
as we apprehended, of about twelve hundred, on which
we retreated to a mill about eighty rods back, and the said
Troops then took possession of the hill where we were
first posted. Presently after this we saw the Troops mov-
ing towards the North Bridge, about one mile from the
said Concord meeting-house ; we then immediately went
before them and passed the bridge, just before a party of
them, to the number of about two hundred, arrived ; they
there left about one-half of their two hundred at the bridge,
and proceeded with the rest towards Colonel Barrett's,
about two miles from the said bridge. We then seeing
several fires in the Town, thought the houses in Concord
were in danger, and marched towards the said bridge, and
the Troops who were stationed there observing our ap-
proach, marched back over the bridge, and then took up
some of the plank ; we then hastened our march towards
the bridge, and when we had got near the bridge they fired
on our men, first three guns, (one after the other,) and then
a considerable number more; and then, and not before,
(having orders from our commanding officer not to fire till
we were fired upon,) we fired upon the Regulars, and they
retreated. On their retreat through the Town of Lexing-
ton to Charlestown, they ravaged and destroyed private
property, and burnt three houses, one barn, and one shop.
John Hoar, Isaac Parks,

John Whitehead, William Hosmer,
Ab'm Garfield, John Adams,
Benjamin Monroe, Gregory Stone.

Middlesex, ss., April 23, 1775:

The within named John Hoar, John Whitehead, Abra-
ham Garfield, Benjamin Munroe, Isaac Parks, William
Hosmer, John Adams, and Gregory Stone, appeared and
made solemn oath to the truth of the within deposition.
Before us, William Reed,

John Cummings,
Jonathan Hastings,
Duncan Ingraham,
Justices of the Peace.

Province of the Massachusetts-Bay, >
Charlestown, ss. $

I, Nathaniel Gorham, Notary and Tabellion Publick,
duly admitted and sworn, do certify, that William Reed,
John Cummings, Jonathan Hastings, and Duncan Ingra-
ham, Esquires, are four of His Majesty's Justices, and that
full faith is to be given to their transactions as such. In
witness whereof I have hereunto affixed my name and seal
this twenty-sixth day of April, one thousand seven hun-
dred and seventy-five.

Nath'l Gorham, Notary Publick.

[No. 15.]

Lexington, April 23, 1775.

We, Nathan Barrett, Captain ; Jonathan Farrcr, Joseph
Butler, and Francis If heeler, Lieutenants; John Barrett,
Ensign; John Brown, Silas Walker, Ephraim Melvin,
Nathan Buttrick, Stephen Hosmer, Junior, Samuel Bar-
rett, Thomas Jones, Joseph (.'handler, Peter II heeler,
Nathan Peirce, and Edward Richardson, all of Concord,
in the County of Middles*: 1 , in the Province of the Mas-
sachusetts-Bay, of lawful age, testify and declare, that on
Wednesday, the nineteenth instant, about an hour after
sunrise, we assembled on a hill near the meeting-house
in Concord aforesaid, in consequence of an information,

that a number of Regular Troops had killed six of our
countrymen at Lexington, and were on their march to
said Concord ; and about an hour afterwards we saw them
approaching to the number, as we imagine, of about twelve
hundred; on which we retreated to a hill about eighty rods
back, and the aforesaid Troops then took possession of the
hill where we were first posted. Presently after this we
saw them moving towards the North Bridge, about one
mile from said meeting-house ; we then immediately went be-
fore them, and passed the bridge just before a party of them,
to the number of about two hundred, arrived. They there
left about one-half of these two hundred at the bridge, and
proceeded with the rest towards Colonel Barrett's, about
two miles from the said bridge. We then seeing several
fires in the Town, thought our houses were in danger, and
immediately marched back towards said bridge, and the
Troops who were stationed there observing our approach,
marched back over the bridge, and then took up some of
the planks. We then hastened our steps towards the
bridge, and when we had got near the bridge, they fired
on our men, first three guns, (one after the other,) and then
a considerable number more ; upon which, and not before,
(having orders from our commanding officer not to fire till
we were fired upon,) we fired upon the Regulars, and they
retreated. At Concord, and on their retreat through Lex-
ington, they plundered many houses, burnt three at Lexing-
ton, together with a shop and a barn, and committed damage,
more or less, to almost every house from Concord to Charles-
town. Nathan Barrett, Nathan Buttrick,

Jonathan Farrer, Stephen Hosmer, Jr.,
Joseph Butler, Samuel Barrett,

Francis Wheeler, Thomas Jones,
John Barrett, Joseph Chandler,

John Brown, Peter Wheeler,

Silas Walker, Nathan Peirce,

Ephraim Melvin, Edward Richardson.

Lexington, April 23, 1775.

We, Joseph Butler and Ephraim Melvin, do testify and
declare, that when the Regular Troops fired upon our people
at the North Bridge in Concord, as related in the foregoing
deposition, they shot one, and we believe two, of our
people, before we fired a single gun at them.

Joseph Butler,
Ephraim Melvin.

Middlesex, ss., April 23, 1775:

The within named Nathan Barrett, Jonathan Farrer,
Joseph Butler, Francis Wheeler, John Barrett, John
Brown, Silas Walker, Ephraim Melvin, Nathan Buttrick,
Stephen Hosmer, Junior, Samuel Barrett, Thomas Jones,
Joseph Chandler, Peter Wheeler, Nathan Peirce, and Ed-
ward Richardson, appeared and made solemn oath to the
truth of the above deposition by them subscribed.

Before us,

Jonathan Hastings,}
John Cummings,
Duncan Ingraham,
Justices of the Peace.

Fourth Series. — Vol. 11.

Province of the Massachusetts-Bay, )
Charlestown, ss. 5

I, Nathaniel Gorham, Notary and Tabellion Publick,
duly admitted and sworn, do hereby certify all whom it
may or doth concern, that Jonathan Hastings, John Cutn-
mings, and Duncan Ingraham, Esquires, are three of His
Majesty's Justices for the County of Middlesex, and that
full faith and credit is to be given to their transactions as
such. In witness whereof I have hereunto affixed my
name and seal this twenty-sixth day of April, one thou-
sand seven hundred and seventy-five.

Nathaniel Gorham, Notary Publick.

[No. 16.]

Concord, April 23, 1775.

I, Timothy Minot, Junior, of Concord, on the nineteenth
day of this instant, April, after that I had heard of the
Regular Troops firing upon Lexington men, and fearing
that hostilities might be committed at Concord, thought it
my incumbent duty to secure my family. After I had
secured my family, some time after that returning towards
my own dwelling and finding that the bridge on the north-

32

199

CORRESPONDENCE, PROCEEDINGS, fee, MAY, 1775.

500

em part of said Concord was guarded by Regular Troops,
being a spectator of what had happened at said bridge,
declare that the Regular Troops stationed on said bridge,
after they saw the men that were collected on the westerly
side of said bridge march towards said bridge, then the
Troops returned towards the easterly side of said bridge,
and formed themselves, as I thought, for regular fight.
After that they fired one gun, then two or three more,
before the men that were stationed on the westerly part of
said bridge fired upon them. Timothy MlNOT, Jin.

Middlesex, ss., April -i'-i, 1775 :

Doctor Timothy Minot, Junior, personally appeared,
and after due caution to testify the truth and nothing but
the truth, made solemn oath to the truth of the above
deposition by him subscribed.

Before us, William Reed,

Jonathan Hastings,
John Cummings,
Duncan Ingraham,

Justices af (he Peace.

Province of the Massachusetts-Bay, >
Charlestown, ss. J

I, Nathaniel Gorham, Notary and Tabellion Publick,
duly admitted and sworn, do certify all whom it doth or
may concern, that William Reed, Jonathan Hastings,
John Cummings, and Duncan Ingraham, are four of His
Majesty's Justices for the County of Middlesex, and that
full faith and credit is to be given to their transactions as
such. In witness whereof I have hereunto affixed my
name and seal this twenty-sixth day of April, one thousand
seven hundred and seventy-five.

Nathaniel Gorham, Notary Publick.

[No. 17.]

Lexington, April 23, 1775.

I, James Barrett, of Concord, Colonel of a Regiment
of Militia in the County of Middlesex, do testify and say,
that on Wednesday morning last about daybreak I was in-
formed of the approach of a number of the Regular Troops
to the Town of Concord, where were some magazines be-
longing to this Province. When there was assembled
some of the Militia of this and the neighbouring Towns,
I ordered them to march to the North Bridge, (so called,)
which they had passed and were taking up. I ordered
said Militia to march to said bridge and pass the same, but
not to fire on the King's Troops unless they were first
fired upon. We advanced near said bridge, when the said
Troops fired upon our Militia and killed two men dead on
the spot, and wounded several others, which was the first
firing of guns in the Town of Concord. My detachment
then returned the fire, which killed and wounded several
of the King's Troops. James Barrett.

Middlesex, ss., April 23, 1775 :

The above named James Barrett personally appeared,
and after due caution to testify the whole truth and nothing
but the truth, made solemn oath to the truth of the above
deposition by him subscribed.

Before us, William Reed,

Jonathan Hastings,
Duncan Ingraham,
Justices of the Peace.

Province of the Massachusetts-Bay,
Charlestown, ss.
I, Nathaniel Gorham, Notary and Tabellion Publick,
duly admitted and sworn, do certify all whom it doth
or may concern, that William Reed, Jonathan Hastings,
and Duncan Ingraham, Esquires, are three of His Majes-
ty's Justices for the County of Middlesex, and that full
faith and credit is to be given to their transactions as such.
In witness whereof 1 have hereunto affixed my name and
seal this twenty-sixth day of April, one thousand seven
hundred and seventy-five.

Nath'l Gorham, Notary Publick.

[No. 18.]

Lexington, April 23, 1775.

We, Bradbury Robinson, Samuel Spring, Thaddeus
Bancroft, all of Concord, and James Adams, of Lexing-

ton, all in the County of Middlesex, all of lawful age, do
testify and say, that on Wednesday morning Ian, near ten
of the clock, we saw near one hundred of the Regular
Troops, being in the Town of Concord, at the North Bridge
in said Town, (so called,) and having passed the same,
they were taking up said bridge, when about three hun-
dred of our Militia were advancing towards said bridge in
order to pass said bridge, when, without saying any thing
to us, they discharged a number of guns on us, which killed
two men dead on the spot, and wounded several others,
when we returned the fire on them, which killed two of
them and wounded several ; which was the beginning of
hostilities in the Town of Concord.

Bradbury Robinson,
Samuel Spring,
Thaddeus Bancroft,
James Adams.

Middlesex, ss., April 23, 1775:

The withinnamed Bradbury Robinson, Samuel Spring,
Thaddeus Bancroft, and James Adams, made solemn oath
to the truth of the within deposition by them subscribed.
Before us, William Reed,

William Stickney,
Jonathan Hastings,
Justices of the Peace.

Province of the Massachusetts-Bay,
Charlestown, ss.
I, Nathaniel Gorham, Notary and Tabellion Publick,
certify to all whom it doth or may concern, that William
Reed, William Stickney, and Jonathan Hastings, Esqrs.,
are three of His Majesty's Justices of the Peace for the
County of Middlesex, and that full faith and credit is and
ought to be given to their transactions as such. In witness
whereof I have hereunto affixed my name and seal this
twenty-sixth day of April, Anno Domini one thousand
seven hundred and seventy-five.

Nath'l Gorham, Notary Publick.

[No. 19.]

Concord, April 23, 1775.

I, James Man; of lawful age, testify and say, that in
the evening of the eighteenth instant, I received orders
from George Hutchinson, Adjutant of the Fourth Regi-
ment of Regular Troops stationed at Boston, to prepare
and march, to which order I attended, and marched to Con-
cord, where 1 was ordered by an officer, with about one
hundred men, to guard a certain bridge there. While at-
tending that service, a number of people came along, in
order, as I suppose, to cross said bridge, at which time a
number of the Regular Troops first fired upon them.

James Marr.

Middlesex, ss., April 23, 1775:

The above named James Marr appeared, and after due
caution to testify the truth and nothing but the truth, made
solemn oath to the truth of the above deposition by him
voluntarily subscribed.

Before us : Duncan Ingraham,

Jonas Dix.
Justices of the Peace.

Province of Massachusetts-Bay, )
Charlestown, ss. y

1, Nathaniel Gorham, Notary and Tabellion Publick,
duly admitted and sworn, do certify that Duncan Ingraham
and Jonas Dix, Esquires, are two of His Majesty's Jus-
tices for the County of Middlesex, and that full faith and
credit is to be given to their transactions as such. In wit-
ness whereof I have hereunto affixed my name and seal,
this twenty-sixth day of April, one thousand seven hundred
and seventy-five.

Nathaniel Gorham, Notary Publick.

[No. 20.]

Medford, April 25, 1775.

I, Edward Thoroton Gould, of His Majesty's own Re-
giment of Foot, being of lawful age, do testify and declare,
that on the evening of the eighteenth instant, under the
orders of General Gage, I embarked with the Light-Infan-
try and Grenadiers of the line, commanded by Colonel

501

CORRESPONDENCE, PROCEEDINGS, &c, MAY, 1775.

502

Smith, and landed on the marshes of Cambridge, from
whence we proceeded to Lexington. On our arrival at
that place, we saw a body of Provincial Troops armed, to
the number of about sixty or seventy men ; on our ap-
proach they dispersed, and soon after firing began ; but
which party fired first, I cannot exactly say, as our Troops
rushed on shouting and huzzaing previous to the firing,
which was continued by our Troops as long as any of the
Provincials were to be seen. From thence we marched to
Concord. On a hill near the entrance of the Town, we
saw another body of Provincials assembled ; the Light-
Infantry Companies were ordered up the hill to disperse
them ; on our approach they retreated towards Concord.
The Grenadiers continued on the road under the hill towards
the Town. Six companies of Light-Infantry were ordered
down to take possession of the bridge which the Provin-
cials retreated over ; the Company 1 commanded was one ;
three Companies of the above detachment went forward
about two miles. In the mean time the Provincial Troops
returned, to the number of about three or four hundred.
We drew up on the Concord side of the bridge ; the Pro-
vincials came down upon us, upon which we engaged, and
gave the first fire. Tins was the first engagement after the
one at Lexington ; a continual firing from both parties
lasted through the whole day. I myself was wounded at
the attack of the bridge, and am now treated with the
greatest humanity, and taken all possible care of by the
Provincials at Medford. Edwd. Thoroton Gould,

Lieut. King's own Rcgt.

Province of the Massachusetts-Bay, )
Middlesex County, April 25, 1775. J

Lieutenant Edward Thoroton Gould, aforenamed, per-
sonally made oath to the truth of the foregoing declaration
by him subscribed. Before us : Thad. Mason,

Josiah Johnson,
Simon Tufts,
Justices of the Peace for the County aforesaid,
Quorum unus.

Province o/"Massachusetts-Bay, J
Chablestown, ss. )

I, Nathaniel Gorham, Notary and Tabellion Publick,
by lawful authority duly admitted and sworn, hereby cer-
tify to all whom it doth or may concern, that Thaddeus
Mason, Josiah Johnson^ and Simon Tufts, Esquires, are
three of His Majesty's Justices of the Peace, quorum unus,
ibr the County of Middlesex ; and that full faith and
credit is and ought to be given to their transactions as such,
both in Court and out. In witness I have hereunto affixed
my name and seal, this twenty-sixth day of April, Anno
Domini one thousand seven hundred and seventy-five.
Nathaniel Gorham, Notary Publick.

Regulars, who had retreated from Concord, had encamped
on Bunker's Hill, in Charlestown .

The Congress, upon this report, resolved that the Dur-
ham Company, then at Exeter, (armed complete for an
engagement, with a week's provisions,) should return home,
and keep themselves in constant readiness. All the men
being gone from the westward and southward of Newmar-
ket, and Men-of-War expected hourly into Portsmouth, it
was with the greatest difficulty your Durham soldiers were
prevailed upon to return. Six or seven expresses arrived
at Durham the night after our return ; some desiring us to
march to Kittcry ; some to Hampton; some to Ipsivich,
&.C., which places, they said, sundry Men-of-War were
ravaging. The whole country was in a continual alarm ;
but suspecting that the Marines at Portsmouth might take
advantage of the confusion we were then in, and pay Dur-
ham a visit, we thought proper to stand ready to give them
a warm reception ; and supposing that your house and
family would be the first mark of their vengeance, although
I had been express the whole night before, I kept guard
to defend your family and substance to the last drop of my
blood. Master Smith being under the same apprehension,
did actually lay in ambush behind a warehouse, and came
very near sinking a fishing-boat anchored off" in the river,
which he supposed heaped full of Marines. Men, women,
and children, were engaged day and night in preparing for
the worst.

Many Towns in this Province have enlisted Minute-Men,
and keep them under pay ; and the Congress, before this,
would actually have raised an army, had they not waited
for the General Court, which sits to-morrow, in order to
raise as much money as they can, to pay off" their army
when raised.

I am extremely mortified that I am unable to join the
army at Cambridge. The particulars of the skirmish be-
tween the Regulars and Americans will, long before this,
have reached you. In longing expectation, your safe, hap-
py, and speedy return is hoped for by all your friends, but
by none more sincerely than your dutiful humble servant,

Alex. Scammell.

To John Sullivan, Esq., at Philadelphia or New-York.

ALEXANDER SCAMMELL TO JOHN SULLIVAN.

Portsmouth, New-Hampshire, May 3, 1775.

Honoured Sir: Your leaving New-Hampshire at a
time when your presence was so extremely necessary to
cherish the glorious ardour which you have been so instru-
mental in inspiring us with, spread a general gloom in Dur-
ham, and in some measure damped the spirit of liberty
through the Province ; and nothing but the important busi-
ness in which you are embarked would induce us to dis-
pense with your presence with any degree of patience or
resignation.

But when the horrid din of civil carnage surprised us on
the 20th of April, the universal cry was — Oh ! if Major
Sullivan was here ! I wish to God Major Sullivan was
here! ran through the distressed multitude. April Court,
which was then sitting, adjourned immediately. To arms !
to arms ! was breathed forth in sympathetick groans.

I went express to Boston, by desire of the Congressional
Committee, then silting at Durham, proceeded as far as
Bradford, where I obtained credible information that even-
ing. Next morning 1 arrived at Exeter, where the Pro-
vincial Congress was assembling with all possible haste.
There I reported what intelligence I had gained : that
the American Army at Cambridge, Wobum, and Charles-
town, was more in need of provisions than men ; that fifty-
thousand had assembled in thirty-six hours ; and that the

COMMITTEE OF BRUNSWICK TO THE BOSTON COMMITTEE
OF CORRESPONDENCE.

Brunswick, May 3, 1775.

Gentlemen : We, whose names are hereunto subscribed,
beg liberty to inform you with our situation, as we are
chosen by this Town to examine into the circumstances of
it ; and finding the Town very deficient as to arms and
ammunition, have sent by water to Salem, but have just
had our money returned back, without arms or ammunition ;
and at present we have not more than a quarter of a pound
of powder to a man, throughout the Town, nor more than
one firelock to two men ; and in this defenceless state we
are obliged tQ apply to you to assist our trusty friend whom
we have sent, which is Captain Nathaniel Larrabee ; and
as we think it would be unsafe to transport powder by wa-
ter, we have ordered him to take only one hundred weight,
and for him to consult with you how and in what way it
would be safest to get arms and more powder down to us.

We should esteem it a favour to be informed by you by
way of letter, at every convenient opportunity, of our pub-
lick affairs. We are, gentlemen, yours ever to be com-
manded, Aaron Hinkley, Saml. Standwood,
Benj. Stone, James Curtis.

Norfolk (Virginia) committee.

At a meeting of the Committee of the County of Nor-
folk, at the Court-House of said County, on Thursday,
"the 4th of May, 1775:

The Resolves of the Convention held at the Town of
Richmond, on the 20th of March last, were read, and unan-
imously approved.

Resolved, That the thanks of this Committee be pre-
sented to Thomas New-ton, Junior, and James Holt, Es-
quires, our worthy Delegates, for their faithful discharge
of the important trust reposed in them.

Having heretofore placed the highest degree of confi-
dence in the good intentions of our Chief Magistrate to-

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CORRESPONDENCE, PROCEEDINGS, kc., MAY, 1"5.

501

wards his Majesty's most loyal and faithful subjects, the
good people of this Dominion, over whom lie presides,
which we can safely affirm had rained him their universal
esteem and respect, with equal surprise and sorrow we
have seen in our publick Gazettes an extract of a Letter
said to he wrote hy our said Chief Magistrate, on the -2 1th
of December last, to the Karl of Dartmouth, one of His
Majesty's principal Secretaries of State, and most grossly
misrepresenting all the good people of this Colony, par-
ticularly the Magistrates, and those whom the people have
elected as Committees to be the guardians of their inesti-
mable rights and liberties. And as his Excellency has not
thought proper to disavow being the author of such Letter,
we must take it for granted that the extract published is
a faithful copy. We therefore think it our indispensable
duty, in justice to our own reputations, and that of our con-
stituents, who have honoured us with such marks of their
confidence and esteem, to refute so unjust and unmerited,
so defamatory and atrocious a charge.

First, then, we declare that we know of no instance
wherein any Committee in this or the neighbouring Coun-
ties has assumed an authority to inspect the books, or any
other secrets of the trade of Merchants. We admit to
have known some instances where some Merchants, being
suspected of a breach of the Association, have voluntarily
offered some private letters and books to be inspected, in
order to acquit themselves of such charge.

He next says we stigmatize those we discover to have
transgressed what we hardly call the Laws of the Congress;
which stigmatizing, to use the words in the said extract,
" is no other than inviting the vengeance of an outrageous
and lawless mob to be exercised on the unhappy victims."
Several in this Borough and County have been held up for
puhlick censure for breaches of the Association, but no
vengeance of any mob or individual has been inflicted on
them, not even that fashionable one lately introduced by
the Troops under the command of General Gage ; and we
could call upon sundry persons here who were thus stigma-
tized, to justify this assertion.

We wish his Excellency had deigned to name the Coun-
ty where the Committee had proceeded so far as to swear
the men of their Independent Company to execute all
orders which they should give them, as it is a piece of infor-
mation entirely new to us ; as well as that of every other
County forming an Independent Company, for the avowed
purpose, (as he says) of protecting their Committees, and
to be employed against Government, if occasion require.
We hope all the dark plots of our most secret or declared
enemies will prove ineffectual in bringing matters to that
unhappy issue ; and we have so high an opinion of the vir-
tue of our countrymen, that we look upon the solemnity of
an oath altogether unnecessary to stimulate them to stand
forth firm and intrepid upon all just occasions, in support of
their civil and religious rights and liberties.

Whilst we were thus fondly flattering ourselves that we
had in his Excellency a most powerful advocate in order
to accommodate the unhappy disputes subsisfing between
Great Britain and the Colonies, we leave the world to
judge what poignant sorrow we must feel on the discovery
that it was a vain delusion ; and thai, instead of the good
offices we expected, he was all the time widening the
breach, by misrepresenting so greatly our conduct to those
in power; and we now discover, from his Excellency's said
Letter, that his gentle and lenient conduct, which we were
too ready to attribute to the regard he possessed, and which
we flattered ourselves he had for his Government, proceed-
ed only from his fears of the disgrace of a disappointment ;
and we find, as soon as it was known that that Letter would
be made publick, the mask was thrown off; and the first
step taken to open the eyes of the people, was the seizing
of the Gunpowder in the publick Magazine, in the most
secret manner. How far such a manoeuvre is justifiable,
is not our intention at present to inquire into, that being a
point on which the publick will undoubtedly undertake to
judge for themselves ; but we cannot help giving it as our
opinion, that his Excellency's answer to the Address of the
respectable Corporation of the City of Williams burgh, on
that occasion, is highly disrespectful and evasive. And
now, my countrymen, let us, by our steady perseverance
in virtue and unanimity, convince his Excellency, when he
says that every step we take must inevitably defeat its own

purpose, that he (to use the phrase of our late truly wor-
thy and noble Governour) has not augured right.

\\ C thought ourselves under the indispensable neces-itv
of making the foregoing strictures on the above-mentioned
Letter, lest our silence might be construed by our country-
men, or others, into a tacit confession of our guilt ; and now
we submit to the publick how far his Excellency merits the
continuance of that unlimited confidence heretofore placed
in him. The tribute of our respect we are still willing to
pay him as our Chief Magistrate, and the representative
of our most gracious Sovereign, to whom we shall always
pay all due obedience.

Ordered, That the Clerk send a copy of these proceed-
ings to Messrs. Dixon and Hunter, and Mr. John Hunter
Holt, to be published ; and they are desired to publish
them in their next Gazettes.

Benjamin Crooker, Clerk.

W'illiamsburyh, Virginia, .May 1, 177.5.

The Town of York being somewhat alarmed by a Let-
ter from Captain Montague, commander of His Majesty's
ship the Fowey, addressed to the Honourable Thomas bet-
son, Esquire, President of His Majesty's Council in I ir-
ginia ; and a copy of said Letter being procured, a motion
was made that the copy should be laid before the Commit-
tee, and considered. The copy was read, and is as follows :

Fowey, May 4, 1775.

Sir : I have this morning received certain information,
that his Excellency the Lord Dunmore, Governour of Vir-
ginia, is threatened with an attack at daybreak this morn-
ing, at his Palace at Williamsburgh, and have thought
proper to send a detachment from His Majesty's Ship un-
der my command, to support his Excellency; therefore
strongly pray you to make use of every endeavour to pre-
vent the party from being molested or attacked, as, in that
case, I must be under a necessity to fire upon this Town.

To the Honourable Thomas Nelson, from

George Montague.

The Committee, together with Captain Montague's Let-
ter, taking into consideration the time of its being sent,
which was too late to permit the President to use his influ-
ence had the inhabitants been disposed to " molest and
attack" the detachment ; and further considering that Col-
onel Nelson, who, had this threat been carried into execu-
tion, must have been a principal sufferer, was, at that very
moment, exerting his utmost endeavours in behalf of Gov-
ernment, and the safety of his Excellency's person, unani-
mously came to the following Resolutions :

Resolved, That Captain Montague, in threatening to fire
upon a defenceless Town, in case of an attack upon the
detachment, in which said Town might not be concerned,
has testified a spirit of cruelty unprecedented in the annals
of civilized times; that, in his last notice to the President,
he has added insult to cruelty ; and that, considering the
circumstance already mentioned, of one of the most con-
siderable inhabitants of said Town, he has discovered the
most hellish principles that can actuate a human mind.

Resolved, That it be recommended to the inhabitants of
this Town, and of the County in general, that they do not
entertain or show any other mark of civility to Captain
Montague, besides what common decency and absolute
necessity require.

Resolved, That the Clerk do transmit the above pro-
ceedings to the publick Printers, to be inserted in the Vir-
ginia Gazettes.

William Russell, Clerk to Committee.

TOWN-MEETING, UPPER FREEHOLD, (MONMOUTH COUNTY)
NEW-JERSEY.
Monmouth County, Upper Freohold, May 4, 1775.

This day, agreeable to previous notice, a very consider-
able number of the principal inhabitants of this Township
met at Imlay's Town :

John Lawrence, Esquire, in the Chair.

When the following Resolves were unanimously agreed
to :

Resolved, That it is our first wish to live in union with
Great Britain, agreeable to the principles of the Consti-

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CORRESPOND ENCE, PROCEEDINGS, kc.; MAY, 1775.

506

tution; that we consider the unnatural civil war which we
are about to be forced into, with anxiety and distress ; but
that we are determined to oppose the novel claim of the
Parliament of Great Britain to raise a revenue in Ame-
rica, and risk every possible consequence rather than sub-
mit to it.

Resolved, That it appears to this meeting that there are
a sufficient number of Arms for the people.

Resolved, That a sum of money be now raised to pur-
chase what further quantity of Powder and Ball may be
necessary ; and it is recommended that every man capable
of bearing arms enter into Companies to train, and be pre-
pared to march at a minute's warning; and it is further
recommended to the people that they do not waste their
Powder in fowling or hunting.

A subscription was then opened, and One Hundred and
Sixty Pounds instantly paid into the hands of a person ap-
pointed for that purpose. The Officers of four Companies
were then chosen, and the meeting broke up in perfect
unanimity. Elisha Lawrence, Clerk.

Doctor William Burnett, Elisha Boudinot, Esquire, Isaac
Ogdcn, Esquire, and Mr. Isaac Longworth, be a Commit-
tee of Correspondence for said Town.

Elisha Boudinot, Cleric to Committee.

TOWN-MEETING, NEWARK, NEW-JERSEY.

Newark, New-Jersey, May 4, 1775.

At a meeting of the Freeholders and Inhabitants of the
Township of Newark, in New-Jersey, on Thursday, the
4th day of May, A. D. 1775:

Doctor William Burnett in the Chair.

An Association having been entered into and subscribed
by the Freeholders and other Inhabitants of said Town, a
motion was made and agreed to, that the same be read.
The same was accordingly read, and is as follows :

" We, the Freeholders and Inhabitants of the Township
of Newark, having deliberately considered the openly
avowed design of the Ministry of Great Britain to raise a
revenue in America; being affected with honour at the
bloody scene now acting in the Massachusetts-Bay for car-
rying that arbitrary design into execution ; firmly convinced
that the very existence of the rights and liberties of Ame-
rica can, under God, subsist on no other basis than the
most animated and perfect union of its inhabitants ; and
being sensible of the necessity, in the present exigency, of
preserving good order, and a due regulation in all publick
measures, with hearts perfectly abhorrent of slavery, do
solemnly, under all the sacred ties of religion, honour,
and love to our Country, associate and resolve, that we
will, personally, and as far as our influence can extend,
endeavour to support and carry into execution whatever
measures may be recommended by the Continental Con-
gress, or agreed upon by the proposed Convention of De-
puties of this Province, for the purposes of preserving and
fixing our Constitution on a permanent basis, and opposing
the execution of the several despotick and oppressive Acts
of the British Parliament, until the wished-for reconcilia-
tion between Great Britain and America, on constitu-
tional principles, can be obtained.

" That a General Committee be chosen by this Town for
the purposes aforesaid, and that we will be directed by,
and support them in all things respecting the " common
cause, the preservation of peace, good order, the safety of
individuals, and private property."

Voted, That Isaac Ogden, Esquire, Captain Philip
Van Cortlandt, Bethuel Pierson, and Caleb Camp,h<z the
Deputies to represent said Township in the Provincial
Congress referred to in the said Association.

The General Committee also mentioned in the said As-
sociation, was then chosen, consisting of forty-four.

Agreed, That the powers delegated to the Deputies and
General Committee, continue until the expiration of five
weeks after the rising of the next Continental Congress,
and no longer.

Agreed, That the General Committee have power to
appoint one or more Sub-Committees, to act on any emer-
gency. Isaac Longworth, Town Clerk.

The General Committee immediately convened, and
elected Lewis Ogden, Esquire, Chairman, Doctor William
Burnett, Deputy Chairman, and Elisha Boudinot, Esq.,
Clerk of the said General Committee.

Agreed, That the above-named Lewis Ogden, Esquire,

EXTRACT OF A LETTER FROM A GENTLEMAN IN NEW-YORK
TO HIS CORRESPONDENT IN LONDON, DATED MAY 4,
1775.

The General Committee of One Hundred have stopped
all supplies to Boston, Newfoundland, and all the Fishing
Coasts, after the example of Philadelphia. The members
of His Majesty's Council have sent a copy of the Minutes
of their proceedings to the Committee this morning, with
liberty to communicate the purport of them. The min-
utes (which are the outlines of a letter to be transmitted
by this packet) contain a just and true account of the
circumstances which took place on the news of an engage-
ment ; acknowledged the receipt of a letter from Lord
Dartmouth of the 24th of March, wherein he hints at a
plan of accommodation being to be offered ; in answer to
which they give their opinion explicitly, that no terms will
be attended to in the present ferment ; and unless General
Gage ceases hostilities, it will be in vain to make proposals
of any kind. In short, that this and all other Provinces are
resolved, not only to refuse submission to the late and pre-
sent Acts of Parliament, but to oppose, at the risk of their
lives and fortunes, all those who come to enforce them.

New- York, May 4, 1775.

We hear that the Post, having been interrupted, the
Postmaster (who has hitherto, without legal authority,
been appointed from home, and as a conveniency, permit-
ted here unquestioned) has discharged the riders, the
expense of which he has no longer a fund to support. An
office for this necessary business will doubtless be put under
proper regulations by the Continental Congress, and no
more be permitted to return to the rapacious hands of
unauthorized intruders, since it would be the most con-
temptible pusillanimity to suffer a revenue to be raised from
our property to defray the expense of cutting our throats !
We hear Mr. William Goddard, who has been a great suf-
ferer, with many others, by the malpractices of an illegal
holder of this office, is now on a journey to the Eastward,
in order to put the business under proper regulations to be
laid before the Congress.

GOVERNOUR TRUMBULL TO DOCTOR JOSEPH WARREN.

Hartford, May 4, 1775.

Sir : Your letter of the 2d of May instant, is received.
You may be informed from our letter to Brigadier-General
Putnam, what is already done by our General Assembly,
and need not fear our firmness, deliberation, and unanimity
to pursue the measures which appear best for our common
defence and safety, and in no degree to relax our vigilant
preparations for that end, and to act in union and concert
with our sister Colonies, and shall be cautious of trusting
promises which may be in the power of any one to evade.
We hope no ill consequences will attend our embassy to
General Gage.

Should be glad to be furnished with the evidences duly
authenticated concerning the attack on the 19th of April
last, at Lexington, which it is presumed you have taken.
Though we are at a distance from the distressing scene
before your eyes, yet are most sensibly affected with the
alarming relations of them.

I am, in behalf of the Governour and Company, Sir,
your most obedient humble servant,

Jonathan Trumbull.

To the Honourable Joseph Warren, Esquire.

COMMITTEE OF SAFETY OF MASSACHUSETTS TO GOVERNOUR
TRUMBULL.

Cambridge, May 4, 1775.

The distressed situation into which a wicked and despo-
tick Administration have involved this Country, will justify
us in your eyes, as we presume, in our present most earn-
est and pressing desire that you will immediately send us
three or four thousand men of your establishment, in order

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CORRESPONDENCE, PROCKKDl\GS, he, MAY, 1775.

508

to enable us to secure a pass of the greatest importance to
our common interest, and which tlie enemy will certainly
sa themselves of as soon as their reinforcement arrive;
and if they once get possession, it will cost us much blood
and treasure to dislodge them, but may now be secured by
us if we had a force sufficient, without any danger. There-
fore we earnestly repeat out request for three or four thou-
sand men for the present purpose, with all possible despatch,
and supported with all necessary stores of ammunition and
provision ; and would beg that they may be forwarded in
Companies or Regiments, as fast as they can be got ready.
This will make it easier to the Troops, and to the country
through which they may pass, and may probably be of more
essential service to our common cause. We are, &.C.

MASSACHUSETTS COMMITTEE OF SAFETY TO THE NEW-
YORK COMMITTEE.

Cambridge, May 4, 1775.

It is with the highest satisfaction this Committee received
your letter of the 2d instant, expressive of your tender
care and sympathy with this Colony under our alarming
situation. All we can write on this occasion is, that the
exigency of our affairs requires all the assistance which
your better judgment shall dictate. We rest assured that
your zeal for the common safety will inspire you to do
every thing that is proper for the safety and preservation
of the unalienable rights of America. We are, itc.

.EXTRACT OF A LETTER FROM A GENTLEMAN IN PITTS-
FIELD TO AN OFFICER AT CAMBRIDGE, DATED MAY
4, 1775.

1 have the pleasure to acquaint you that a number of
gentlemen from Connecticut went from this place last
Tuesday morning, having been joined by Colonel Easton,
Captain Dickinson, and Mr. Brotvn, with forty soldiers,
on an expedition against Ticondcroga and Crown Point,
expecting to be reinforced by a thousand men from the
Grants above here, a post having previously taken his de-
parture to inform Colonel Ethan Allen of the design, and
desiring him to hold his Green-Mountain boys in actual
readiness. The expedition has been carried on with the
utmost secrecy, as they are in hopes of taking those forts
by surprise. We expect they will reach those forts by
Saturday next, or Lord's day at farthest. The plan was
concerted at Hartford last Saturday, by the Governour
and Council ; Colonel Hancock, and Mr- Adams, and
others from our Province being present. Three hundred
Pounds were drawn immediately out of the Treasury for the
aforesaid purpose, and committed to those gentlemen that
were here. We earnestly pray for success to this impor-
tant expedition, as the taking those places would afford us
a key to all Canada. Should success attend this expedi-
tion, we expect a strong reinforcement will be sent from
the western part of Connecticut to keep those forts, and to
repair and fortify them well.

We have had much work here of late with the Tories ;
a dark plot has been discovered of sending names down to
General Gage; in consequence of which, and the critical
situation of this Town, we have been obliged to act with
vigour, and have sent Mr. Jones and Mr. Graves to
Northampton Jail, where they now lie in close confine-
ment, and have sent a hue and cry after Major Stoddard
and Mr. Little, who have fled to New-York for shelter.
We hope it will not be long before they are taken into
custody and committed to close confinement. Our Tories
are the worst in the Province ; all the effect the late and
present operations have had upon them is, they are mute
and pensive, and secretly wish for more prosperous days
to toryism.

As to your important operations, sir, you have the fer-
vent prayers of all good men that success may attend
them. I hope God will inspire you with wisdom from
above in all your deliberations, and your soldiers with
courage and fortitude, and that Boston will be speedily
delivered into your hands, the General thereof, and all the
King's Troops, that the den of thieves, that nest of robbers,
that asylum for traitors and murderers, may be broke up,
and never another red coat from England set foot on these
shores.

SELECTMEN OF TOPSHAM, IN LINCOLN COUNTY, TO THE
MASSACHUSETTS CONGRESS.

Topaham, May t, 177.1.

This is to inform the Honourable Congress that the

Town of Topsham is almost destitute of powder and tlints ;

and we desire that your honourable body would direct Mr.

Prince Rose, the man we have sent for powder, to some

place where he can get about sixty or seventy weight of

powder, and you will oblige the inhabitants of Toysham,

who are true friends to liberty and friends to our Country.

In behalf of the inhabitants of Topsham .

John Fulton,

James Beveridge,

4

Selectmen.

COLONEL THOMAS GILBERT TO HIS SONS.

Boston, May I, 1775.

On the 27th of April, I left the Ship, took passage on
board a packet sloop on the first instant, in health arrived
here, where I expect to stay till the Rebels are subdued,
which I believe will not be long first, as the Ships and
Troops are daily expected. My greatest fears are, you will
be seduced or compelled to take arms with those deluded
people. Dear sons, if those wicked sinners, the Rebels,
entice you believe them not, but die by the sword rather
than be hanged as Rebels, which will certainly be your
fate sooner or later if you join them, or be killed in battle,
and will be no more than you deserve. 1 wish you in Bos-
ton, and all the friends to Government. The Rebels have
proclaimed that those friends may have liberty, and come in ;
but as all their declarations have hitherto proved, I fear,
false, this may be so. Let Buggies know his father wants
him here. You may come by water from Newport. If
here the King will give you provisions and payr you wages ;
but by experience you know neither your persons nor estates
are safe in the country, for as soon as you have raised any-
thing, thay will rob you of it, as they are more savage
and cruel than heathens, or any other creatures, and, it is
generally thought, than devils. You will put yourselves out
of their power as soon as possible. This is from your
affectionate father, Thos. Gilbert.

EXTRACT OF A LETTER FROM A GENTLEMAN IN LONDON
TO HIS FRIEND IN NEW-YOIIK, DATED MAY 5, 1775.

It has been long the object of Administration to tra-
duce your Province, representing it as inimical to the sys-
tem of opposition to their measures, so universally adopted
in the other Colonies. To obviate this calumny, the friends
of America have had little opportunity of vindicating you,
because the intelligence from Neiv-York comes here gen-
erally to persons absolutely devoted to the mandates of a
very wicked Administration. The mercantile connections
of New- York, as far as my knowledge extends, are as little
friendly to American liberty as any I know. I wish it was
in my power to point out your friends, for I do not mean
to expose your enemies, who make themselves conspicuous
enough.

The Troops from Ireland, destined to shackle the Bos-
tonians, and with them every American, are about sailing.
The three Generals, Hoive, Clinton, and Burgoyne, have
sailed. Howe is well known in America; Clinton is the
son of one of your former Governours ; these are both
men of character — they go on this business with much re-
luctance ; but they were told, you must do this or starve.
As to Burgoyne, I am not master of language enough to
express the horrible blackness of his character. Refer to
the letters of Junius to the Duke of Grafton, to which I
will add but one anecdote, for the truth of which you may
be assured ; that he (Burgoyne) declared, when those let-
ters were published, if he could find out the author, he
would assassinate him. Governour Tryon goes off in a
day or two to strengthen the ministerial party with you,
and has the command of money to bribe. A word to the
wise. Major Skene has deceived the Ministry, in persua-
ding them that he can bribe all the Members of the Conti-
nental Congress, for which purpose he has been sent off to
Philadelphia.

The ministerial plan is undoubtedly to reduce every
American to the most degraded state of absolute bondage
and servitude. The two modes by which they hope to
accomplish their end, are, using force and violence in New-

509

CORRESPONDENCE, PROCEEDINGS, &c, MAY, 1775.

510

England ; and with bribery and other artifices, to divide
the rest of the Colonies from the common cause ; for this
end New-York is not mentioned in the lately passed Act of
Parliament for restraining the trade of Virginia, Maryland,
&sc. This grant, however, I cannot view in any other light
than that of a tyrant, who might allow me to eat, but at the
same time would put me to death if 1 went to a certain
place where only 1 could get any thing to eat ; for all con-
nection whatsoever is cut off between New-York and the
other Colonies. There is not in nature a clearer truth to
me, than that if America is firmly united, and determined
to encounter every difficulty rather than submit to the
tyranny that is at this moment planned for them all without
distinction by the present Ministers, it will be impractica-
ble for the scheme to succeed. Without taking into the
account the uncertainty of war, where the battle is not
always to the strong, the natural and self-evident reasons
for determining so absolutely in this question, are so clear
and decisive, that it would be more absurd than any scep-
lick ever was yet to doubt it. I therefore conclude, the
yeomanry at large, in the Government of New- York, will
steadily persevere in maintaining their rights, and firmly
unite with the other. Colonies in whatever measures the
grand Continental Council at Philadelphia may think best
to adopt; notwithstanding the attempts to disunite you by
a few men, who, for a golden gratuity, will sell themselves,
their Country, and posterity, to tyranny, in hopes they
may be the under-executioners. It is confidently said here,
that Doctor Cooper's reward for what he has been doing
and writing against his Country, will be the American
Bishoprick, which is certainly to be established as soon as
you are subdued. Parson Vardell is here, the agent for
this business, I am told, and if so, no doubt expects a
deanery to be added to his present appointments. Your
persecutions will be complete, when the religious is added
to the military.

NEW-YORK COMMITTEE..

The Committee met, by adjournment, Friday, 5th May,
1775. Present:

Philip Livingston,
Isaac Low,
John Alsop,
John Jay,

P. V. B. Livingston,
Alex. McDougall,
Leonard Lispenard,
William Walton,
John Broome,
Joseph Hallett,
Gabriel H. Ludlow,
Nicholas Hoffman,
Abraham Walton,
Henry Remsen,
Peter T. Curtenius,
Abraham Brasher,
Abraham P. Lott,
Joseph Bull,
Francis Lewis,
Joseph Totten,
Thomas Ivers,
Hercules Mulligan,
John Anthony,
Francis Basset,
Victor Bicker,
John VVhito,
Thcophilus Anthony,

William Goforth,
William Denning,
Isaac Itoosevelt,
Jacob Van Voorhies,
Jeremiah Piatt,
Comfort Sands,
Robert Benson,
William W. Gilbert,
John Berrian,
Gabriel W. Ludlow,
Nicholas Roosevelt,
Edward Fleming,
John De Lancey,
Frederick Jay,
William W. Ludlow,
John B. Moore,
Lancaster Burling,
John Lasher,
George Janeway,
Richard Yates,
Thomas Smith,
Augustus Van Home,
Eleazer Miller,
Benjamin Kisgam,
John M. Scott,
Cornelius Clopper,
John Itcade,

Jacobus Van Zandt,
Gerardus Duyckinck,
Peter Goelet,
Thomas Marston,
Jacobus Lefferts,
Richard Sharpe,
Abrarn. Brinkerhoff,
Benjamin Helme,
Walter Franklin,
David Beekman,
William Seaton,
Evert Banker,
Robert Ray,
Nicholas Bogart,
William Laight,
Samuel Broome,
John Lamb,
Daniel Phonix,
Anthony Van Dam,
Daniel Dunscomb,
John Imlay,
Oliver Templeton,
Lawis Pintard,
Cornelius P. Low,
Thomas Buchannan,
Petrus Byvanck.

Mr. McDougall, from the Committee of Correspond-
ence and Intelligence, reported a draft of a Circular Letter
to the different Colonies, which being read and approved of,

Ordered, That copies be engrossed and forwarded ac-
cordingly by the Committee of Correspondence.

A Letter, dated Richmond County, 2d May, 1775, from
Paul Micheau and others, advising of their having appoint-
ed Deputies to attend the Provincial Congress, received
and read.

Ordered, That Mr. Duyckinck and Mr. Denning be a
Sub-Committee to attend the sales of a parcel of Cutlery,
the property of Henry Johns, imported in December last.

Ordered, That Mr. Sharpe., Mr. Seaton, Mr. Duyc-
kinck, and Mr. G. W. Ludlow, be a Committee to wait on
every gentleman chosen to represent this City and County
in Provincial Congress, and to request their strict attend-
ance at the time appointed ; and if any of them should
decline to accept and execute that trust, to make report

thereof to this Committee ; and that they also wait on those
gentlemen who have been chosen of I his Committee and
have not attended, to request their attendance; and if any
of them should decline, to make report also of their names
to this Committee.

Mr. McDougall, from the Committee of Correspondence,
reported a draft of an answer to the address of Captain
Samuel Broome and his Company ; which being approved
of,

Ordered, That the same be engrossed, signed by the
Chairman, and presented to Captain Broome.

A Letter, dated Annapolis, May 1, 1775, from Matthew
Tilghman, enclosing a Resolution of their Provincial Con-
vention, suspending all Exportation to Qucbeck, Nexvfound-
land, Nova-Scotia, &tc, received and read.

Mr. Kissam, from the Committee of Correspondence,
reported and read the draft of a Letter to the Lord Mayor
and Corporation of London, which being approved of,

Ordered, That copies be engrossed, signed, and for-
warded,.

A Letter, dated Albany, 3d May, 1775, from the Com-
mittee of Correspondence, received and read.

Ordered, That as Messrs. Adams and Hancock are
daily expected in this City, the Committee of Correspond-
ence and Intelligence wait on them, and request a private
conference on the subject-matter of the above letter.

Mr. Berrian, seconded by Mr. Jay, moved that the
tenth rule of this Committee be amended : that instead of
every proceeding or debate of this Committee being kept
secret, every thing may be divulged except such particu-
lar matters as shall be enjoined from the Chair to be kept
private.

Which being unanimously agreed to,

Ordered, That the said amendment be accordingly
made.

The Committee adjourned to Monday,. 8th instant.

CIRCULAR LETTER FBOM THE NEW-YORK COMMITTEE TO
THE SEVERAL COLONIES.

New- York, May 5, 1775.

Gentlemen: At a time when the most vigorous exer-
tions are most absolutely necessary for the defence of Ame-
rican liberty against the depredations of ministerial power ;
and the blood of our brethren in the Massachusetts has been
actually shed for daring to maintain the rights of English-
men ; the inhabitants of this City and County have, in the
most explicit manner, as you may perceive by the enclosed
Association, resolved to stand and fall with the freedom of
the Continent.

We are confident that our constituents are sincere in the
strong assurances they have given us, that while we con-
tinue in office, they will be guided by our advice and direc-
tion. We have thought it necessary to advise the with-
holding supplies from the British Fisheries on the Ameri-
can Coasts, and to cease all exports to those Colonies which
at this alarming juncture refuse to unite in the common
cause. The expediency of this measure is too evident to
need elucidation, and will doubtless procure us many hearty
advocates in Britain for the redress of our grievances.
Besides which, we have resolved to withhold all provisions
and necessaries from the Army and Navy at Boston.

Our late Committee of Observation thought proper to
recommend the appointment of a Provincial Congress; in
consequence of which our constituents have chosen twenty-
one Deputies to meet at this City, on the 22d instant,
those who may be appointed for that purpose in the other
Counties of this Colony. For your further satisfaction on
these matters, we beg leave to refer you to the enclosed
papers, to require you to communicate the substance of
this information to your next neighbours, and to assure you
that in our department we will watch incessantly for the
publick safety. By order of the Committee:

I am, gentlemen, your most obedient and humble ser-
vant, Henry Remsen, Deputy Chairman.

TO THE LORD MAYOR AND CORPORATION OF LONDON.
Committee Chamber, New-York, May 5, 1775.

My Lord and Gentlemen : Distinguished as you are

507

CORRESPONDENCE, PROCEEDINGS, &c, MAY, 1775.

508

to enable us to secure a pass of the greatest importance to
our common interest, and which the enemy will certainly
possess themselves of as soon as their reinforcement arrive;
and if they once get possession, it will cost us much blood
and treasure to dislodge them, but may now be secured by
us if we had a force sufficient, without any danger. There-
fore we earnestly repeat oui request for three or four thou-
sand men for the present purpose, with all possible despatch,
and supported with all necessary stores of ammunition and
provision; and would beg that they may be forwarded in
Companies or Regiments, as last as they can be got ready.
This will make it easier to the Troops, and to the country
through which they may pass, and may probably be of more
essential service to our common cause. We are, &tc.

MASSACHUSETTS COMMITTEE OF SAFETY TO THE NEW-
YORK COMMITTEE.

Cambridge, May 4, 1775.

It is with the highest satisfaction this Committee received
your letter of the 2d instant, expressive of your tender
care and sympathy with this Colony under our alarming
situation. All we can write on this occasion is, that the
exigency of our affairs requires all the assistance which
your better judgment shall dictate. We rest assured that
your zeal for the common safety will inspire you to do
every thing that is proper for the safety and preservation
of the unalienable rights of America. We are, fcc.

EXTRACT OF A LETTER FROM A GENTLEMAN IN PITTS-
FIELD TO AN OFFICER AT CAMBRIDGE, DATED MAY
4, 1775.

1 have the pleasure to acquaint you that a number of
gentlemen from Connecticut went from this place last
Tuesday morning, having been joined by Colonel Easton,
Captain Dickinson, and Mr. Brown, with forty soldiers,
on an expedition against Ticonderoga and Crown Point,
expecting to be reinforced by a thousand men from the
Grants above here, a post having previously taken his de-
parture to inform Colonel Ethan Allen of the design, and
desiring him to hold his Green-Mountain boys in actual
readiness. The expedition has been carried on with the
utmost secrecy, as they are in hopes of taking those forts
by surprise. We expect they will reach those forts by
Saturday next, or Lord's day at farthest. The plan was
concerted at Hartford last Saturday, by the Governour
and Council ; Colonel Hancock, and Mr. Adams, and
others from our Province being present. Three hundred
Pounds were drawn immediately out of the Treasury for the
aforesaid purpose, and committed to those gentlemen that
were here. We earnestly pray for success to this impor-
tant expedition, as the taking those places would afford us
a key to all Canada. Should success attend this expedi-
tion, we expect a strong reinforcement will be sent from
the western part of Connecticut to keep those forts, and to
repair and fortify them well.

We have had much work here of late with the Tories ;
a dark plot has been discovered of sending names down to
General Gage; in consequence of which, and the critical
situation of this Town, we have been obliged to act with
vigour, and have sent Mr. Jones and Mr. Graves to
Northampton Jail, where they now lie in close confine-
ment, and have sent a hue and cry after Major Stoddard
and Mr. Little, who have fled to New- York for shelter.
We hope it will not be long before they are taken into
custody and committed to close confinement. Our Tories
are the worst in the Province ; all the effect the late and
present operations have had upon them is, they are mute
and pensive, and secretly wish for more prosperous days
to toryism.

As to your important operations, sir, you have the fer-
vent prayers of all good men that success may attend
them. I hope Qod will inspire you with wisdom from
above in all your deliberations, and your soldiers with
courage and fortitude, and that Boston will be speedily
delivered into your hands, the General thereof, and all the
King's Troops, that the den of thieves, that nest of robbers,
that asylum for traitors and murderers, may be broke up,
and never another red coat from England set foot on these
shores.

SELECTMEN OF TOPSHAM, IN LINCOLN COUNTY, TO THE
MASSACHUSETTS CONGRESS.

Topsham, May 1, 177").

This is to inform the Honourable Congress that the
Town of Topsham is almost destitute of powder and (lints ;
and we desire that your honourable body would direct Mr.
Prince Rose, the man we have sent for powder, to some
place where he can get about sixty or seventy weight of
powder, and you will oblige the inhabitants of Topsham,
who are true friends to liberty and friends to our Country.

In behalf of the inhabitants of Topsham:

John Fulton, ) Sekclmc„.
James Ueverioge, J

COLONEL THOMAS GILBERT TO HIS SONS.

Boston, May 1, 1775.

On the 27th of April, I left the Ship, took passage on
board a packet sloop on the first instant, in health arrived
here, where 1 expect to stay till the Rebels are subdued,
which I believe will not be long first, as the Ships and
Troops are daily expected. My greatest fears are, you will
be seduced or compelled to take arms with those deluded
people. Dear sons, if those wicked sinners, the Rebels,
entice you believe them not, but die by the sword rather
than be hanged as Rebels, which will certainly be your
fate sooner or later if you join them, or be killed in battle,
and will be no more than you deserve. 1 wish you in Bos-
ton, and all the friends to Government. The Rebels have
proclaimed that those friends may have liberty, and come in ;
but as all their declarations have hitherto proved, I fear,
false, this may be so. Let Ruggles know his father wants
him here. You may come by water from Newport. If
here the King will give you provisions and pay you wages ;
but by experience you know neither your persons nor estates
are safe in the country, for as soon as you have raised any-
thing, thay will rob you of it, as they are more savage
and cruel than heathens, or any other creatures, and, it is
generally thought, than devils. You will put yourselves out
of their power as soon as possible. This is from your
affectionate father, Thos. Gilbert.

EXTRACT OF A LETTER FROM A GENTLEMAN IN LONDON
TO HIS FRIEND IN NEW-YORK, DATED MAY 5, 1775.

It has been long the object of Administration to tra-
duce your Province, representing it as inimical to the sys-
tem of opposition to their measures, so universally adopted
in the other Colonies. To obviate this calumny, the friends
of America have had little opportunity of vindicating you,
because the intelligence from Neiv-York comes here gen-
erally to persons absolutely devoted to the mandates of a
very wicked Administration. The mercantile connections
of New-York, as far as my knowledge extends, are as little
friendly to American liberty as any I know. I wish it was
in my power to point out your friends, for I do not mean
to expose your enemies, who make themselves conspicuous
enough.

The Troops from Ireland, destined to shackle the Bos-
tonians, and with them every American, are about sailing.
The three Generals, Howe, Clinton, and Burgoyne, have
sailed. Howe is well known in America; Clinton is the
son of one of your former Governours ; these are both
men of character — they go on this business with much re-
luctance ; but they were told, you must do this or starve.
As to Burgoyne, I am not master of language enough to
express the horrible blackness of his character. Refer to
the letters of Junius to the Duke of Grafton, to which I
will add but one anecdote, for the truth of which you may
be assured ; that he (Burgoyne) declared, when those let-
ters were published, if he could find out the author, he
would assassinate him. Governour Tryon goes off in a
day or two to strengthen the ministerial party with you,
and has the command of money to bribe. A word to the
wise. Major Skene has deceived the Ministry, in persua-
ding them that he can bribe all the Members of the Conti-
nental Congress, for which purpose he has been sent off to
Philadelphia.

The ministerial plan is undoubtedly to reduce every
American to the most degraded state of absolute bondage
and servitude. The two modes by which they hope to
accomplish their end, are, using force and violence in New-

509

CORRESPONDENCE, PROCEEDINGS, &c, MAY, 1775.

510

England ; and with bribery and other artifices, to divide
the rest of the Colonies from the common cause ; for this
end New-York is not mentioned in the lately passed Act of
Parliament for restraining the trade of Virginia, Maryland,
&tc. This grant, however, I cannot view in any other light
than that of a tyrant, who might allow me to eat, but at the
same time would put me to death if I went to a certain
place where only 1 could get any thing to eat ; for all con-
nection whatsoever is cut off between New- York and the
other Colonies. There is not in nature a clearer truth to
me, than that if America is firmly united, and determined
to encounter every difficulty rather than submit to the
tyranny that is at this moment planned for them all without
distinction by the present Ministers, it will be impractica-
ble for the scheme to succeed. Without taking into the
account the uncertainty of war, where the battle is not
always to the strong, the natural and self-evident reasons
for determining so absolutely in this question, are so clear
and decisive, that it would be more absurd than any scep-
lick ever was yet to doubt it. I therefore conclude, the
yeomanry at large, in the Government of New- York, will
steadily persevere in maintaining their rights, and firmly
unite with the other. Colonies in whatever measures the
grand Continental Council at Philadelphia may think best
to adopt; notwithstanding the attempts to disunite you by
a few men, who, for a golden gratuity, will sell themselves,
their Country, and posterity, to tyranny, in hopes they
may be the under-executioners. It is confidently said here,
that Doctor Cooper's reward for what he has been doing
and writing against his Country, will be the American
Bishoprick, which is certainly to be established as soon as
you are subdued. Parson Vardell is here, the agent for
this business, I am told, and if so, no doubt expects a
deanery to be added to his present appointments. Your
persecutions will be complete, when the religious is added
to the military.

NEW-YORK COMMITTEE..

The Committee met, by adjournment, Friday, 5th May,
1 775. Present :

Philip Livingston,
Isaac Low,
John Alsop,
John Jay,

P. V. B. Livingston,
Alex. McDougall,
Leonard Lispenard,
William Walton,
John Broome,
Joseph Hallett,
Gabriel H. Ludlow,
Nicholas Hoffman,
Abraham Walton,
Henry Remsen,
Peter T. Curtenius,
Abraham Brasher,
Abraham P. Lott,
Joseph Bull,
Francis Lewis,
Joseph Totten,
Thomas Ivers,
Hercules Mulligan,
John Anthony,
Francis Basset,
Victor Bicker,
John White,
Theophilus Anthony,

William Goforth,
William Denning,
Isaac Roosevelt,
Jacob Van Voorhies,
Jeremiah Piatt,
Comfort Sands,
Robert Benson,
William W. Gilbert,
John Berrian,
Gabriel VV. Ludlow,
Nicholas Roosevelt,
Edward Fleming,
John De Lancey,
Frederick Jay,
William W. Ludlow,
John B. Moore,
Lancaster Burling,
John Lasher,
George Janeway,
Richard Yates,
Thomas Smith,
Augustus Van Home,
Eleazer Miller,
Benjamin Kissam,
John M. Scott,
Cornelius Clopper,
John Reade,

Jacobus Van Zandt,
Gerardus Duyckinck,
Peter Goelet,
Thomas Marston,
Jacobus Lefferts,
Richard Sharpe,
Abrafn. Brinkerhoff,
Benjamin Helme,
Walter Franklin,
David Beekman,
William Seaton,
Evert Banker,
Robert Ray,
Nicholas Bogart,
William Laight,
Samuel Broome,
John Lamb,
Daniel Phenix,
Anthony Van Dam,
Daniel Dunscomb,
John.Imlay,
Oliver Templeton,
Lewis Pintard,
Cornelius P. Low,
Thomas Buchannan,
Petrus Byvanck.

Mr. McDougall, from the Committee of Correspond-
ence and Intelligence, reported a draft of a Circular Letter
to the different Colonies, which being read and approved of,

Ordered, That copies be engrossed and forwarded ac-
cordingly by the Committee of Correspondence.

A Letter, dated Richmond County, 2d May, 1775, from
Paul Michcau and others, advising of their having appoint-
ed Deputies- to attend the Provincial Congress, received
and read.

Ordered, That Mr. Duyckinck and Mr. Denning be a
Sub-Committee to attend the sales of a parcel of Cutlery,
the property otHenry Johns, imported in December last.

Ordered, That Mr. Sharps, Mr. Seaton, Mr. Duyc-
kinck, and Mr. G. W. Ludlow, be a Committee to wait on
every gentleman chosen to represent this City and County
in Provincial Congress, and to request their strict attend-
ance at the time appointed ; and if any of them should
decline to accept and execute that trust, to make report

thereof to this Committee ; ami that they also wait on those
gentlemen who have been chosen of this Committee and
have not attended, to request their attendance; and if any
of them should decline, to make report also of their names
to this Committee.

Mr. McDougall, from the Committee of Correspondence,
reported a draft of an answer to the address of Captain
Samuel Broome and his Company ; which being approved
of,

Ordered, That the same be engrossed, signed by the
Chairman, and presented to Captain Broome.

A Letter, dated Annapolis, May 1, 1775, from Matthew
Tilghman, enclosing a Resolution of their Provincial Con-
vention, suspending all Exportation to Quebeck, Neivfound-
land, Nova-Scotia, &ic, received and read.

Mr. Kissam, from the Committee of Correspondence,
reported and read the draft of a Letter to the Lord Mayor
and Corporation of London, which being approved of,

Ordered, That copies be engrossed, signed, and for-
warded..

A Letter, dated Albany, 3d May, 1775, from the Com-
mittee of Correspondence, received and read.

Ordered, That as Messrs. Adams and Hancock are
daily expected in this City, the Committee of Correspond-
ence and Intelligence wait on them, and request a private
conference on the subject-matter of the above letter.

Mr. Berrian, seconded by Mr. Jay, moved that the
tenth rule of this Committee be amended : that instead of
every proceeding or debate of this Committee being kept
secret, every thing may be divulged except such particu-
lar matters as shall be enjoined from the Chair to be kept
private.

Which being unanimously agreed to,

Ordered, That the said amendment be accordingly
made.

The Committee adjourned to Monday, .8th instant.

CIRCULAR LETTER FROM THE NEW-YORK COMMITTEE TO
THE SEVERAL COLONIES.

New- York, May 5, 1775.

Gentlemen: At a time when the most vigorous exer-
tions are most absolutely necessary for the defence of Ame-
rican liberty against the depredations of ministerial power ;
and the blood of our brethren in the Massachusetts has been
actually shed for daring to maintain the rights of English-
men; the inhabitants of this City and County have, in the
most explicit manner, as you may perceive by the enclosed
Association, resolved to stand and fall with the freedom of
the Continent.

We are confident that our constituents are sincere in the
strong assurances they have given us, that while we con-
tinue in office, they will be guided by our advice and direc-
tion. We have thought it necessary to advise the with-
holding supplies from the British Fisheries on the Ameri-
can Coasts, and to cease all exports to those Colonies which
at this alarming juncture refuse to unite in the common
cause. The expediency of this measure is too evident to
need elucidation, and will doubtless procure us many hearty
advocates in Britain for the redress of our grievances.
Besides which, we have resolved to withhold all provisions
and necessaries from the Army and Navy at Boston.

Our late Committee of Observation thought proper to
recommend the appointment of a Provincial Congress ; in
consequence of which our constituents have chosen twenty-
one Deputies to meet at this City, on the 22d instant,
those who may be appointed for that purpose in the other
Counties of this Colony. For your further satisfaction on
these matters, we beg leave to refer you to the enclosed
papers, to require you to communicate the substance of
this information to your next neighbours, and to assure you
that in our department we will watch incessantly for the
publick safety. By order of the Committee :

I am, gentlemen, your most obedient and humble ser-
vant, Henry Remsen, Deputy Chairman.

TO THE LORD MAYOR AND CORPORATION OF LONDON.
Committee Chamber, New.York, May 5, 1775.

My Lord and Gentlemen: Distinguished as you are

511

CORRESPONDENCE, PROCEEDINGS, fcc, MAY, IT

512

by vour noble exertions in the cause of liberty, and deeply
interested in the expiring commerce of the Empire, you
necessarily command the most respectful attention. Tin;
General Committee of Association for the City and County
of New- York beg leave, therefore, to address you, and the
capital of the British Empire, through its Magistrates, on
the subject of American wrongs. Born to the bright inherit-
ance of English freedom, the inhabitants of this extensive
Continent can never submit to the ignominious yoke, nor
move in the galling fetters of slavery : the disposal of their
own property with perfect spontaneity, and in a manner
wholly divested of every appearance of constraint, is their
indefeasible birthright. This exalted blessing they are
resolutely determined to defend with their blood, and trans-
fer it uncontaminated to their posterity.

You will not then wonder at their early jealousy of the
design to erect in this land of liberty a despotism scarcely
to be paralleled in the pages of antiquity, or the volumes
of modern times ; a despotism consisting in power assumed
by the Representatives of a part of His Majesty's sub-
jects, at their sovereign will and pleasure to strip the rest
of their property. And what are the engines of Adminis-
tration to execute this destructive project ? The duty on
tea ; oppressive restraints on the commerce of the Colo-
nies ; the blockade of the Port of Boston ; the change of
internal police in the Massachusetts and Quebeck ; the
establishment of Popery in the latter, the extension of its
bounds ; the ruin of our Indian commerce by regulations
calculated to aggrandize that arbitrary Government; uncon-
stitutional admiralty jurisdictions throughout the Colonies ;
the invasion of our right to a trial in the most capital cases
by a jury of the vicinage ; the horrid contrivance to screen
from punishment the bloody executioners of ministerial
vengeance ; and, not to mention the rest of the black cata-
logue of our grievances, the hostile operations of an Army,
who have already shed the blood of our countrymen. The
struggles excited by the detestable Stamp Act have so
lately demonstrated to the world that the Americans will
not be slaves, that we stand astonished at the gross impolicy
of the Minister. Recent experience has evinced that the
possessors of this extensive Continent would never submit
to a tax by pretext of legislative authority in Britain;
disguise, therefore, became the expedient ; in pursuit of the
same end, Parliament declared their absolute supremacy
over the Colonies, and have already endeavoured to exer-
cise that supremacy in attempting to raise a revenue under
the specious pretence of providing for their good Govern-
ment and defence. Administration, to exhibit a degree of
moderation, purely ostensible and delusory, while they
withdrew their hands from our most necessary articles of
importation, determined, with an eager grasp, to hold the
duty on tea as a badge of their taxative power. Zealous
on our part for an indissoluble union with the Parent State,
studious to promote the glory and happiness of the Empire,
and impressed with a just sense of the necessity of a con-
trolling authority, to regulate and harmonize the discordant
commercial interests of its various parts, we cheerfully
submit to a regulation of commerce by the Legislature of'
the Parent State, excluding in its nature every idea of tax-
ation.

Whither, therefore, the present machinations of arbitrary
power infallibly tend, you may easily judge ; if unremit-
tedly pursued, as they were inhumanly devised, they will,
by a fatal necessity, terminate in a total dissolution of the
Empire. The subjects of this Country will not, we trust,
be deceived by any measures conciliatory in appearance,
while it is evident that the Minister.aims at a solid revenue
to be raised by grievous and oppressive Acts of Parlia-
ment, and by fleets and armies employed to enforce their
execution. They never will, we believe, submit to an auc-
tion in the Colonies, for the more effectual augmentation of
the revenue, by holding it up as a temptation to them, that
the highest bidders shall enjoy the greatest share of govern-
mental favour. This plan, as it would tend to sow the
seeds of discord, would be far more dangerous than hostile
force, in which we hope the King's Troops will ever be, as
they have already been, unsuccessful. Instead of those
unusual, extraordinary, and unconstitutional modes of pro-
curing levies from the subject, should His Majesty gra-
ciously be pleased upon suitable emergencies, to make

requisitions in ancient form, the Colonies have expressed
their willingness to contribute to the support of the Em-
pire ; but to contribute of their voluntary gift as English-
men. And when our unexampled grievances are redressed,
our Prince will find his American subjects testifying on all
proper occasions, by as ample aids as their circumstances
will permit, the most unshaken fidelity to their Sovereign,
and inviolable attachment to the welfare of his realm and
Dominions.

Permit us further to assure you, that America is grown
so irritable by oppression, that the least shock in any part
is, by the most powerful and sympathetick affection, instan-
taneously felt through the whole Continent; that Pennsyl-
vania, Maryland, and Acta- York, have already stopped their
exports to the Fishing Islands, and those Colonies which
at this dangerous juncture have refused to unite with their
brethren in the common cause, and all supplies to the
Navy and Army at Boston ; and that probably the day is
at hand when our Continental Congress will totally shut
up our Ports. The minions of power here may now inform
Administration, if they can ever speak the language of
truth, that this City is as one man in the cause of liberty ;
that to this end our inhabitants are almost unanimously
bound by the enclosed Association ; that it is continually
advancing to perfection by additional subscriptions ; that
they are resolutely bent on supporting their Committee,
and the intended Provincial and Continental Congresses ;
that there is not the least doubt of the efficacy of their
example in the other Counties ; in short, that while the
whole Continent are ardently wishing for peace on such
terms as can be acceded to by Englishmen, they are inde-
fatigable in preparing for the last appeal. That such are the
language and conduct of our fellow-citizens, will be further
manifested by a representation of the Lieutenant-Gover-
nour and Council, of the first instant, to General Gage, at
Boston, and to His Majesty's Ministers, by the packet.

Assure yourselves, my lord and gentlemen, that we speak
the real sentiments of the confederated Colonies on the
Continent, from Nova-Scotia to Georgia, when we declare,
that all the horrours of civil war will never compel Ame-
rica to submit to taxation by authority of Parliament.

A sincere regard to the publick weal and the cause of
humanity, a hearty desire to spare the further effusion of
human blood, our loyalty to our Prince, and the love we
bear to all our fellow-subjects in His Majesty's Realm and
Dominions, and a full conviction of the warmest attach-
ment in the capital of the Empire to the cause of justice
and liberty, have induced us to address you on this momen-
tous subject, confident that the same cogent motives will
induce the most vigorous exertions of the City of London
to restore union, mutual confidence, and peace to the
whole Empire.

We have the honour to be, my lord and gentlemen,
your most obedient, and affectionate fellow-subjects,

Isaac Low, Chairman,
John Jay,
Francis Lewis,
John Alsop,
Philip Livingston,
James Duane,
Gerardus Duyckinck,
William Seaton,
Wm. W. Ludlow,
Cornelius Clopper,
Abrm. Brinkorhoff,
Henry Remsen,
Robert Ray,
Evert Banker,
Joseph Totten,
Abraham P. Lott,
David Beekman,
Isaac Roosevelt,
Gabriel II. Ludlow,
William Walton,
Daniel Phenix,
Frederick Jay,
Samuel Broome,
John Do Lancey,
McDougall,
John It
Joseph Bull,
(George Janeway,
John White,
Gabriel W. Ludlow,

John Lasher,
Thcophilus Anthony,
Thomas Smith,
Richard Yates,
Oliver Templeton,
Jacobus Van Zandt,
Jeremiah Piatt,
Peter T. Curtenius,
Thomas Randall,
Lancaster Burling,
Benjamin Kissam,
Jacobus Lefferts,
Anthony Van Dam,
Abraham Walton,
Hamilton Young,
Augustus Van Home,
Abraham Duryce,
Samuel Verplanck,
Ittulolphus Kilzma,
John Morton,
Joseph Hallelt,
Robert Benson,
Abraham Brasher,
Leonard Liepenard,
Thomas Marston,
Nicholas Hoffman,
P. V. B. Livingston,
Lewis Pintard,
John Imlay,
Eleazor Miller, Jun„

John Broome,
John B. Moore,
Nicholas Bogart,
John Anthony,
Victor Bicker,
William Goforth,
Hercules Mulligan,
Nicholas Roosevelt,
Cornelius P. Low,
Francis Bassett,
James Beekman,
Thomas Ivers,
William Denning,
John Berrian,
Benjamin Helme,
William W. Gilbert,
Daniel Dunscomb,
John Lamb,
Richard Sharp,
John Moral Scott,
Jacob Van Voorhies,
Comfort Sands,
Edward Fleming,
Peter Goelet,
Gerret Ketlel
Thomas Buchannan,
J. Desbrosses, Jun.,
Petrus Byvanck,
Lawrence Embrec.

To the Right Honourable the Lord Mayor, the Alder-
men, and Common Council of the City of London.

513

CORRESPONDENCE, PROCEEDINGS, &c, MAY, 1775.

514

MEMBERS OF THE NEW-YORK ASSEMBLY TO GENERAL GAGE.

New.York, May 5, 1775.
Sir: In the recess of the General Assembly we, who
are members of it, cannot avoid addressing your Excellency
on a subject of the utmost imporlance.

We have long seen, with the greatest anxiety, the pro-
gress of the unhappy contest between Great Britain and
the Colonies ; and as we have ardently wished for a cordial
reconciliation, so we have, to the utmost of our power, en-
deavoured to pursue the means of attaining so desirable an
end. While we were looking up to this object, encouraged
to hope for the attainment of it by the assurances we had
that a spirit of reconciliation was prevailing in the Mother
Country, we were extremely alarmed at the late melan-
choly transactions in the Province of Massachusetts-Bay ,
ending in actual bloodshed. The immediate effect occa-
sioned by the intelligence of such important events, was a
general agitation in the minds of the people here, which
has since subsided into a fixed, confirmed resolution, to
withhold all supplies and succours from the Troops under
your Excellency's command, while they are at the same
time associating and arming to put themselves in a state of
defence.

Alarmed as we are by the ruinous consequences which
must inevitably follow the prosecution of hostile measures,
and anxiously affected with the calamities of an unnatural
civil war, we are induced most earnestly to entreat your
Excellency, in behalf of the Colonies, (which, however
tenacious of their rights and liberties, and jealous of every
infringement of them, can be exceeded in loyalty and
affection for our most gracious Sovereign by none of his
subjects,) that your Excellency will, as far as may be con-
sistent with your duty, immediately order a cessation of
further hostilities, until His Majesty can be apprised of the
situation of the American Colonies. From such a request
we entertain the most favourable expectations, when we
reflect on the humanity and clemency which distinguish
your Excellency's character, and which must render a
conflict between Britons and Americans a subject of the
most disagreeable nature to you. While we consider the
state of mind which prevails among the people here, we
cannot but mention their apprehensions at the report of the
destination of some Troops for this place ; should this
really be the case, we must express our wish that it might
also be consistent with your Excellency's duty, that no
military force might land or be stationed in this Province.
It behooves us to acquaint your Excellency that two of
the members of His Majesty's Council of this Province
have this day sailed in the Packet for England; and we
flatter ourselves that the indulgent Father of his People
will be moved by the distressed situation of his American
subjects, and that he will permit a negotiation to take
place, which may prevent the further effusion of blood,
and open a door for a lasting accommodation of present
disputes. We are your Excellency's most obedient hum-
ble servants,

John Cruger, James Jauncey,

Fred. Philips, Zeb. Williams,

Jacob Walton, Benj. Seaman,

Daniel Kissam, John Rapalje,

P. Van Cortlandt, Samuel Gale,
Simon Boerum, Christoph. Billopp,

John Coe, Samuel Wells.

To his Excellency General Gage.

SELECTMEN OF WORCESTER TO THE MASSACHUSETTS
CONGRESS.

[Worcester, May 5, 1775.]

The Selectmen of Worcester humbly pray that you
would let them know what establishment you have made
for a Post, or Post-riders from Worcester to the Army,
that they may conduct themselves agreeable to your

&

orders and the publick weal
^ We also beg your direction what regard we shall pay to
Governour Gage's precept for calling a General Assembly,
to be held in Boston, on the 31st day of May next. We'
think a similarity of conduct of every Town in the Prov-
ince best, and know not how to obtain it but by

Fourth Series. — Vol

direction. We are, gentlemen, your humble servants, the
Selectmen of Worcester. Per order :

Joshua Bigelow.
To the Honourable President of the Provincial Congress,

and the Honourable Members thereof, now assembled

at Watertotm.

PETITION TO THE MASSACHUSETTS CONGRESS.

An address to the Provincial Congress, or any gentleman
that is a Storekeeper for the Congress, from us, the out-
skirts of the settlements on Sheepscot River and Deer's
River, (without the limits of any Town,) under the
command of Charles Glidden, Senior.

Gentlemen: It is our humble petition to you to sup-
ply us, your petitioners, with powder and ball, or lead, in
order to be ready furnished to attend any alarm or call to
assist in vindication of our American cause ; and entreating
your compliance with and fulfilment of this our address,
will encourage our hearts, and raise up our spirits to a high-
er pitch of courage, and shall ever subscribe ourselves your
obliged friends, and ready to serve.

Charles Glidden, John Byenton, Timothy Ferrin,

Nathan Deasell, John Decker, Josoph Rodgers,

Meires Carr, Timothy Ferrin, William Carr,

John Phillbrick, Jeremiah Brand, Samuel Parum,

Benjamin Stickney, Obadiah North, Ebenezer Phillbrick,

Ephraim Brown, Benjamin Kenney, Jeremiah Brand,

Mason Wottles, Charles Glidden, Jr., Moses Cope,

Jam s Reies, Michael Glidden, Jonathan Heath,

William Byenton, Ebenezer Grover, David Hutchins,

Ezekiel Stearns, Thomas Grover, Oliver Peselen,

James Murphy, Stephen Grover, Ezekiel Peselen,

Jacob Rowell, Bonjamin Dow, Isaac Heath,

Thos. Cunningham, Samuel Ball, Andrew Glidden.

James Shepard, John Ball,

EXTRACT OF A LETTER FROM THE HON. ENOCH FREEMAN,
ESQ.., TO THE MASSACHUSETTS CONGRESS.

Falmouth, May 5, 1775.

— We have lately heard that the Penobscot Indians are
highly exasperated at Captain Goldthwaite, for suffering
the Tender to dismantle the Fort there, and carry off the
powder ; that the truck trade is stopped, as we are inform-
ed ; and that there was a number of men round about there
going to take Goldthwaite, for delivering up the Fort, into
their custody, but what they intend to do with him I don't
hear. Perhaps it would be prudent for the Congress to
send down there and secure the Indians in our interest, by
keeping the truck trade open, supplying them powder, or
any other method in their wisdom, upon mature considera-
tion, they may think best. A hint on this head is enough.
^-The Selectmen of this Town have this moment agreed
with one Mr. Jabez Mattheios and one David Dinsmore,
of New- Gloucester, to go over to Quebeck, to make dis-
covery whether any Canadians are in motion to come on
our back settlements, or to excite the Indians to do it ;
and I have wrote to Mr. Remington Holby, of Vassalbo-
rough, to procure one or two to go with them as hunters.
And they are charged to be cautious not to let the Cana-
dians have reason so much as to suspect their business ;
and they will depend on your endeavouring to get the
Congress to order them adequate satisfaction out of the
publick fund. If they discover any evil designs, we shall
be glad to know it, that we may prepare accordingly for
our defence. If they find there is no design upon us, it
will be a great satisfaction to this eastern country.

I could write a good deal in favour of sending such an
embassy, but as my time is almost wholly taken up on pub-
lick matters, I have little time to spare.

PETITION OF TIMOTHY LANGDON TO THE
CONGRESS.

MASSACHUSETTS

your

Georgetown, May 5, 1775.

To the Honourable the President of the Provincial Con-
gress, the Petition of Timothy Langdon humbly
shoiveth :

That upon the second day of May instant, a Committee
of Safety for ten Towns in the County of Lincoln, met at
Pownalsborough, and, amongst other matters, took under
consideration the expediency of removing the Kind's masts,

u.

33

515

CORRESPOKDEIS'CE, PROCEEDINGS, 8tc3 -MAY. 1775.

5it>

being now in the dock in Georgetown; when it was unani-
mously voted that it was inexpedient to remove them.

That on the fourth day of Slay instant, a meeting of the
Committees of Inspection for a Dumber of Towns in the
County of Lincoln, was held in Georgetown, and after
duly considering of all matters respecting the King's masts,
were of opinion that all persons be forbid to work upon
said masts, or aid in any manner in fitting them for the
King's use.

That Edward Parry, Esquire, who had procured those
masts more than a year since, had promised the Commit-
tee that no person should ship those masts for him, but
there they should remain in the dock in Georgetown. The
Committees of Inspection were then of opinion, that it was
inexpedient to remove the masts from the Dock.

That while the Committees of Inspection were met,
Colonel Samuel Thompson, of Brunswick, in the County
of Cumberland, appeared with twenty armed men, and
when he had heard of the result oi the Committees, he
seized upon the body of Edward Parry, Esquire, and
kept him in custody till he gave bonds in two thousand
Pounds to tarry in this Town till the pleasure of Congress
shall be known respecting him, and also obliged the said
Edward to pay for the victuals and drink of him the said
Thompson and his men, amounting to the sum of forty-two
Shillings, lawful money.

That the said Edward Parry has ever behaved himself
as a peaceable member of society, and he declared to the
Committees, that had he known there was any order
of Congress respecting the masts, he would not have con-
cerned himself with them. Wherefore, your petitioner, at
the request of, and as Clerk to the Committee of Inspec-
tion, humbly prays the honourable Congress that they
would take the matters of fact above stated under consid-
eration, and that orders be sent to Messrs. Dummer Sewall
and Jordan Parker, the bondmen for said Parry, that he
the said Parry may be released from his confinement, and
they the said Dummer and Jordan released from their
bonds ; and your petitioner, as in duty bound, shall ever
pray, he. Tim. Langdon.

JAMES GOWEN AND OTHERS TO GENERAL WARD.

Kittery, May 5, 1775.

Sir: Captain Johnson Moulton, the bearer hereof, who
has been a number of years in the service of this Province
the last war, and performed to general satisfaction of all
parties, and it appearing by the disposition of our men, who
are acquainted with him in the service, that he will be the
most likely to raise a regiment of good effective men, there-
fore do recommend him to your Honour (if you think pro-
per) for a Colonel's commission.

And are your Honour's assured friends and humble ser-
vants, James Gowen,

Benj. Chadbourn,
Nathan Lord, Jun.

N. B. There is a considerable number of good men
enlisted already, with a view of said Moulton's being their
Colonel.

The Hon. Artemas Ward, Esquire.

THOMAS CHASE TO THE COMMITTEE OF SAFETY.

Roxbury Camp, May 5, 1775.

Gentlemen : General Thomas desires you would send
a Committee to examine the trunks of Thomas Hutchinson,
as they have sent for them, and the General has directions
from you not to permit them to go to Boston till your
Committee had examined them. I am, in behalf of his
Excellency the General, your most obedient servant,

Thos. Chase, Major Brig.

To the Honourable the Committee of Safety.

committee of safety to general tiiomas.

Boston, May 6, 1775.

Sir: This Committee are of opinion, that it is the
order of the Provincial Congress that the effects of all per-
sons whatsoever should be permitted to go into Boston
without search or detention, and therefore the trunks of
Governour Hutchinson are not to be detained or injured.
We are, &ic.

PROCLAMATION BY LORD DITNMOKE.

By Hit Excellency the Right Honourable John Earl of
DiNMniu., Hit Majettyi lAtKtmart and Governour
General of the Colony and Dominion of Virginia, and

J ice-Admiral of the same.

A Proclamation.
Virginia, to wit :

Whereas I have been informed, from undoubted au-
thority, that a certain Patrick Henry, of the County of
Hanover, and a number of deluded followers, have taken
up aims, chosen their Officers, and, styling themselves an
Independent Company, have marched out of their County,
encamped, and put themselves in a posture of war, and
have written and despatched letters to divers parts of the
Country, exciting the people to join in these outrageous
and rebellious practices, to the great terrourof all His Ma-
jesty's faithful subjects, and in open defiance of law and
Government ; and have committed other acts of violence,
particularly in extorting from His Majesty's Receiver
General the sum of Three Hundred and Thirty Pounds,
under pretence of replacing the Powder I thought proper
to order from the Magazine ; whence it undeniably appears
that there is no longer the least security for the life or pro-
perty of any man: Wherefore, I have thought proper,
with the advice of His Majesty's Council, and in His
Majesty's name, to issue this my Proclamation, strictly
charging all persons, upon their allegiance, not to aid, abet,
or give countenance to the said Patrick Henry, or any
other persons concerned in such unwarrantable combina-
tions, but on the contrary to oppose them and their designs
by every means; which designs must, otherwise, inevitably
involve the whole Country in the most direful calamity, as
they will call for the vengeance of offended majesty and
the insulted laws to be exerted here, to vindicate the con-
stitutional authority of Government.

Given under my hand and the seal of the Colony, at
Williamsburgh, this 6th day of May, 1775, and in the
fifteenth year of His Majesty's reign. Dlnmore.

Gqd save the King.

extract of a letter from Carlisle, Pennsylvania,
dated may 6, 1775.

Yesterday the County Committee met from nineteen
Townships, on the short notice they had. About three
thousand men have already associated. The arms return-
ed amount to about fifteen hundred. The Committee have
voted five hundred effective men, besides commissioned
officers, to be immediately drafted, taken into pay, armed
and disciplined, to march on the first emergency ; to be
paid and supported as long as necessary, by a tax on all
estates, real and personal, in the County ; the returns to
be taken by the Township Committees, and the tax laid
by the Commissioners and Assessors ; the pay of the offi-
cers and men nearly as usual in times past. This morning
we meet again at eight o'clock : among other subjects of
inquiry this day, the mode of drafting, or taking into pay,
arming, and victualing immediately the men, and the choice
of field and other officers, will, among other important mat-
ters, be the subject of deliberation. The strength or spirit
of this County perhaps may appear small, if judged of by
the number of men proposed ; but when it is considered
that we are ready to raise fifteen hundred or two thousand,
should we have support from the Province ; and that inde-
pendent, and in uncertain expectation of such support, we
have voluntarily drawn upon this County a debt of about
Twenty-Seven Thousand Pounds per annum, 1 hope we
shall not appear contemptible. We make great improve-
ment in military discipline ; it is yet uncertain who may go.

New. York, May 6, 1775.

Many printed copies of a letter to the regular soldiers of
Great Britain, now on service in America, were, on the
4th instant, distributed among the soldiers in the barracks
in this City. The purport of this letter was to prove that
soldiers of Great Britain could not legally be sent to Ame-
rica, without the consent of the Legislature of the Colony
where they were sent ; that in the Colonies soldiers were
not subject to the military laws of England, nor could be

517

CORRESPONDENCE, PROCEEDINGS, &c, MAY, 1775.

518

punished or held by them ; but that any officer who should
presume to inflict any pains or penalties on, or to detain a
soldier in America, on authority of a law of England not
adopted by the Legislature in America, would himself be
liable to severe punishments, and might be prosecuted by
any soldier he should so punish or detain.

The next day, after the roll was called, (which was an
hour before the usual time,) the men were ordered to march
and form a circle ; after which, Captain .... made the
following elegant oration :

" Soldiers, I make no doubt but you saw and have read
the printed handbills which were thrown over our gates the
last evening; those that have not, I particularly desire they
will ; they will see the licentiousness of the people, and
the intention of that paper. I say it is with a design of
endeavouring to draw you from your duty, degrading the
Regiment; and what is worse, persuading you to destroy
your souls and bodies. Look on your lappels, and I think
1 am certain it will put you in remembrance never to be
guilty of either. You may depend that these disputes will
be soon settled, in such a manner, and upon such terms,
that all the deserters must be given up, and you may be
certain that they will be hanged like so many dogs. These
very rebels who decoy you, will be the first to deceive
for their own purposes. I forgot to mention to you a cir-
cumstance which Captain .... wrote to me in this let-
ter, (showing it ;) and for your satisfaction 1 will read the
paragraph, to show you what you are to expect, if you are
taken by any of those rebels and barbarians : ' Three com-
panies of Light-Infantry were posted at a bridge, but after
a vigorous defence were dislodged by so great a number of
inhabitants or rebels, (I cannot say which,) coming upon
them ; they left behind them one killed and three wound-
ed. Three scoundrels were so barbarous, that nothing but
savages could have equalled it ; two of these wounded men
were scalped ; besides this, one of them had his ears cut
off, and eyes picked out. Such unheard-of barbarity could
never be performed before by any civilized Nation.' "

So, my brother soldiers of the Eighteenth Regiment, con-
gratulate me on my happy escape ; I could not bear such
confinement ; I was never used to it before, though I
have been a soldier near twenty years. I am now in good
pay, where you may be soon, if you will follow my exam-
ple ; make haste, and come all to me, and you shall be
taken good care of. A Deserter.

number of patriotick toasts were drank. After dinner they
were escorted to Elizabethtoion, and on their way were
met by the gentlemen and militia of that place.

New- York, Tuesday, May 9, 1775.

Saturday evening last, the 6th instant, arrived here from
the eastward, on their way to the Continental Congress at
Philadelphia, the Honourable John Hancock, Thomas
Cashing, Samuel Adams, John Adams, and Robert Treat
Paine, Esquires, Delegates for the Province of Massachu-
setts-Bay; and the Honourable Eliphalet Dyer, Roger
Sherman, and Silas Deane, Esquires, Delegates for the
Colony of Connecticut. They were met a few miles out
of Town by a great number of the principal gentlemen of the
place, in carriages and on horseback, and escorted into the
City by near a thousand men under arms. The roads
were lined with greater numbers of people than were ever
known on any occasion before. Their arrival was an-
nounced by the ringing of bells, and other demonstrations
of joy. They had double centries placed at the doors of
their lodgings.

On Monday morning, the above gentlemen, with Philip
Livingston, James Duane, John Alsop, and Francis Lew-
is, Esquires, Delegates for this City ; Colonel William
Floyd, for Suffolk, and Simon Boerum, Esq., for King's
County, in this Province, set out for Philadelphia, attend-
ed by a great train to the North River ferry, where two or
three sloops and a number of other vessels were provided ;
and it is said about five hundred gentlemen crossed the
ferry with them, among whom were two hundred of the
Militia under arms.

The Delegates were received at the ferry by a number
of gentlemen from Newark, in New-Jersey, Captain Al-
len, at the head of his troop of Horse, and Captain Rut-
gers, at the head of his company of Grenadiers, (which
were allowed by the gentlemen present to be as complete
companies as they had seen.) The whole proceeded to
Newark, where an entertainment was provided, and a

Jamaica Plain, Roxbury, Miiy 6, 1775.

The following is a copy of a paper found among those
of the late Josiah Quincy, Esquire, delivered to him, sign-
ed by an intimate acquaintance of mine, an eminent mer-
chant in London. William Gordon.

" The Quebeck Bill recalls to my mind some considera-
tions, which lead me to think that it is fraught with infi-
nitely more mischief to Britain and America, than most
of its opposers are aware of; and that the planners and
promoters of this Bill will, in the end, be found to have
advanced the interest of France to the destruction of that
of Britain, in a much more eminent degree than has hith-
jerto been clone by the very worst Minister that ever lived.

" The late Thomas Holds, Esquire, well known in Ame-
rica on account of his many liberal benefactions, gave the
following account of himself to a gentleman from whom I
had it, viz : That the said Thomas Hollis had always the
worst opinion of Lord Bute's principles ; and believing him
to have no attachment either to George the Third, or his
family, did, when the last peace, (that is, of Paris,) was
negotiating, at his own expense, send abroad a gentleman,
whose sole business it was to watch every motion, and dis-
cover every secret relating to this peace. The gentleman
thus sent by Mr. Hollis so far succeeded as to discover
that there were four secret articles ; and Mr. Hollis enu-
merated the four following to my friend, and he to me, very
soon after the peace, and long before any one of them was
ever talked of being carried into execution :

"1. That a Popish Bishop was to be fixed by the King
in Canada.

" 2. That the Popish Religion was to be established
there.

'• 3. That the bounds of Canada were to be fixed.

" 4. That Canada, when thus fixed, was to be given
back to the French.

" Now, Sir, when this account was first related to me, as
it was long before any thing of this kind was agitated, I
own I did not believe it possible that Bute could be bold
enough to make such an infamous treaty, and therefore was
at a loss how to controvert an authority so good, or to dis-
pute an evidence which was so circumstantial ; but I own,
as I have now lived to see three of those secret articles ex-
ecuted, I firmly believe that the fourth will be as strictly
observed ; and that Canada restored to the French, thus
fixed and improved, will enable France to distress our Col-
onies, and in the end give a mortal stab to the trade, the
liberty, and glory of Britain. When I see either King,
Ministers, or People, plan, execute, or acquiesce in mea-
sures so evidently ruinous to their own true interest, 1 am
at a loss to discover what are the leading principles on
which such infatuation is founded. No sagacity can sug-
gest any adequate motives.

" N. B. When Lord Bute was at Venice, he attended
mass constantly in a publick manner."

COPY OF AN INTERCEPTED LETTER, DATED MONTREAL,
MAV 6, 1775.

Dear Finlay : Since your departure we have had many
disagreeable things happened here, and news of worse from
Boston, which have given me great uneasiness on your
account, for fear you should fall into their hands, and be
detained till matters are settled between them and the Mo-
ther Country, which desired event, I am afraid, is now far
distant, since hostilities are commenced ; but I hope you
heard the shocking news in time to take such measures as
to avoid any danger.

In the night of the 30th of April* some malicious and
mischievous person or persons disfigured the King's bust
on the parade, by blacking its face, hanging a chaplet of
potatoes about its neck, with a wooden cross and a label,
on which was wrote, " Le Pape de Canada ou le sot An-
glais," (the Pope of Canada and the fool of England,)
with an intent, no doubt, of creating jealousies, animosities,

* The Quebec): Act took effect in Canada on the first of May, 1775.

519

ASSEMBLY OF iNEW-HAMPSHIRE, MAY, 1775.

520

and disturbances amongst the people, particularly between
the English and Canadians; and 1 am sorry to tell you
they have met with great success.

Early the next morning, when it was discovered, the
commanding officer sent two Sergeants to clean the bust
and take off the chaplet, label, and cross. The new Judges
and conservators of the peace were then consulted, but
they took no immediate measures on the occasion, except
sending an account of the transaction to the Governour.
The military first took up the matter, and blamed the En-
glish inhabitants, throwing many reflections on them, par-
ticularly the Committee, who, some amongst them, were
absolutely charged with the fact, which has occasioned
great uneasiness, and I am afraid will be attended with bad
consequences. The Canarlians also point them out as the
authors ; so that you may judge a subscription of One Hun-
dred Pounds Sterling was entered into by the Merchants,
&c, at the Coffee-House, as a reward to any person who
should discover the offender. The military gentlemen also
subscribed Fifty Guineas for the same purpose ; and ad-
vertisements were made out and published by both parties
the next day, by beat of drum. In the course of the pub-
lication two frays happened. Mr. Belestre was standing
at a corner of a street with a number of others, when the
advertisement was read, and he observed that whoever did
it deserved to be hanged ; upon which young Franks ob-
served they did not hang people for such trifles, and that
it was not worth the trouble, which incensed Belestre, who
abused Franks, and took him by the nose, which Franks
returned with a blow that knocked him down, and cut his
forehead ; somebody then interposed and parted them ;
both parties applied to the Judges, but neither could get
satisfaction. Belestre being the aggressor, could not get
Franks bound over, and he could not Belestre, but for what
reason 1 cannot tell. The next day Franks was appre-
hended and committed to prison, not for the assault, but on
Belestre's affidavit, for the expressions he made use of
about the crime, which I mentioned before, and bail was
refused ; however, the day following the Judges sent him
notice, that upon consideration they had agreed to take
bail, but he refused to give any, and is now in prison wait-
ing for an answer from the Governour, to a state of the
case he sent to his father.

The other affair happened between Ezekiel Solomons,
the Jew, and Pailieur; the latter accused the Jews of
having disfigured the bust, upon which some words ensued,
and Solomons knocked him down ; he has been apprehend-
ed, and has given bail.

TO THE PRESIDENT OF THE PROVINCIAL CONGRESS Or
MASSACHUSETTS.

Portsmouth, May 6, 1775.

Sir: We have received intelligence that Mr. Edward
Parry, of this Town, together with Mr. John Barnard
and Mr. Wilson, are now confined in irons in the County
of Lincoln; for what cause we have not been able to ex-
plore. But from the past conduct of Mr. Barry in this
Town, we are convinced he never merited such treatment ;
and that it cannot but meet with the disapprobation of
your Congress, which have constantly manifested, in all
their proceedings, a contrary temper.

We trust that Congress will exert their influence to pro-
cure the immediate release of that gentleman ; and wish
that humanity and candour may distinguish all our noble
struggles in the cause of liberty. 1 am your most obedient
servant. By order of the Committee :

Wm. Whipple.

TO THE COMMITTEE OF SAFETY AT CAMBRIDGE.

In General Assembly, Providence, May 6, 1775.

Gentlemen: Your favour of yesterday we received by
express this morning. We are now pursuing every method
in our power to have our men in readiness to take the field
as early as possible ; and you may rest assured that we will
exert ourselves upon this important occasion ; and that the
Army we have voted to be raised, which is to consist of
fifteen hundred men, will be supplied with all necessary
stores and ammunition ; and one company is to be furnish-
ed with six three-pounders. As soon as they are in readi-
ness we will give you the earliest information thereof, that
they may be disposed of in such a manner as will best serve
our common interest. I am, with great respect, gentlemen,
your most humble servant. By order of the House :

Metcalf Bowler, Speaker.

ASSEMBLY OF NEW.HAMPSHIRE.
Members of the House of Representatives of the Prov-
ince of New-Hampshire, at a Session began and held at
Portsmouth, in said Province, on Thursday, the 4th day
of May, 1775 :

Somersworth. — Honourable John Wentworth, Esquire.
Portsmouth. — Mr. Jacob Sheafe, Captain Woodbury

Langdon, Captain John Langdon.
Dover. — Otis Baker, Esquire, Captain Caleb Hodg-

don, Captain Josiah Moulton.
Hampton. — Mr. Josiah Moulton, Junior.
Hampton Falls. — Meshech Weare, Esquire, John Gid-

ding, Esquire,
Exeter. — Colonel Nathaniel Folsom, Esquire.
New-Castle. — Mr. Henry Prescott.
Rye. — -Mr. Samuel Jenness.
Kingstown.— Colonel Josiah Bartlett, Esquire.
Newington. — Major Bichard Downing, Esquire.
Stratham. — Deacon Stephen Boardman.
Londonderry. — Colonel Stephen Holland, Esquire.
Greenland. — Colonel Clement March, Esquire.
Durham. — -Ebenezer Thompson, Esquire.
Newmarket. — Colonel Joseph Smith, Esquire.
Southampton. — Captain Eliphalet Merrill.
Chester. — John Webster, Esquire.
Plastow and Hampstead. — Mr. John Calef.
Salem and Pelham. — Mr. Jacob Butler, Junior.
Hollis. — Colonel John Hale, Esquire.
Merrimack. — Captain John Chamberlin.
Nottingham-West and Litchfield. — Wiseman Clag-

get, Esquire.
Kensington. — Major Nathaniel Healy, Esquire.
Rochester. — Deacon James Knowles.
Barrington, — Mr. Joshua Foss.

Amherst and Bedford. — Mr. Paul Dudley Sargent.
Winchester. — Colonel Samuel Ashley, Esquire.
Keene. — Captain Isaac Wyman.
Charlestown. — Mr, Elijah Orout.
Plymouth. — Colonel John Fenton, Esquire.
Oxford. — Israel Morey, Esquire.
Lyme. — , .... Greene, Esquire.

Thursday, May 4, 1775, A. M.

A number of the elected Members met, and were ad-
journed by the Deputy Secretary to Friday, the 5th in-
stant, at eleven of the clock in the forenooon.

Friday, May 5, 1775, A. M.

Met according to adjournment.

The Honourable Theodore Atkinson, Jonathan War-
mr, Peter Gillman, and John Sherburne, Esquires, came
into the Assembly Chamber and administered the usual
oaths to the Members present, and then returned.

The Honourable Theodore Atkinson, Jonathan Warner,
Peter Gillman, and John Sherburne, Esquires, came from
the Council Board with a message from his Excellency,
that it was his Excellency's pleasure that the House pro-
ceed to the choice of a Speaker, and present him to the
Chair for approbation.

The House then proceeded to the choice of a Speaker,
and unanimously chose the Honourable John Wentworth,
Esquire.

Voted, That Jacob Sheafe, Esquire, Captain Woodbury
Langdon, Otis Baker, and Wiseman Clagget, Esquires, be
a Committee to inform his Excellency that the House had
made choice of the Honourable John Wentuorth. Esquire,
for their Speaker.

521

ASSEMBLY OF NEW-HAMPSHIRE, MAY, 1775.

522

The Honourable Theodore Atkinson, Jonathan War-
ner, Peter Gillman, and John Sherburne, Esquires, came
from the Board and informed the House that his Excellen-
cy approved of the Honourable John Wentworth, Esquire,
as Speaker of the House, and that his Excellency required
the attendance of the Speaker and all the Members in the
Council Chamber.

The Speaker and House immediately waited on his Ex-
cellency in the Council Chamber, where his Excellency
was pleased to make a Speech to both Houses, after which
they returned to their Chamber.

Voted, That Meshech Weare Esquire, be Clerk to this
House.

The Honourable Meshech fVeare, Esquire, the Clerk
elect of this House, being absent,

Voted, That Ebenezer Thompson, Esquire, be Clerk
pro tempore to this House, who was sworn to the faithful
discharge of his trust by Wiseman Clagget, Esquire.

Voted, That the following Rules be observed by this
House, viz :

First. That whoever shall, by any misbehaviour in
speech or action, justly offend any of the Members of this
House, shall be admonished, fined, or imprisoned, as the
House shall see meet.

Second. That no Member speak twice to any matter
in debate before the House, until every Member have
liberty to speak once to the same matter, if lie should see
cause.

Third. That every Member direct his speech to the
Speaker, and not to one another ; and when any Member
has a mind to speak to any matter in debate, he shall stand
up and ask leave of the Speaker, and not speak without
his consent, and shall be silent at his command ; but if the
Member speaking thinks such command unseasonable or
unreasonable, the Speaker shall take a vote of the House
thereon, to which such Member shall submit on pain of
forfeiting such sum as the House shall determine.

Fourth. That whenever it happens there are as many
votes on the one side of the question as on the other with-
out the Speaker, that then the Speaker make the casting
vote.

Fifth. That if the Speaker be absent, the House may
choose a Speaker pro tempore, that the business of the
House may be carried on without delay.

Sixth. That if any Member, after being qualified and
entered, shall absent himself at any time without leave
from the House, he shall be liable to be fined at the dis-
cretion of the House.

Seventh. That if any Member of this House shall by
the major part of the House be thought unfit and not quali-
fied for said place, it shall be in the power of the House
to dismiss such person, giving to the Town or Precinct
notice to choose another person to fill up such vacancy.

Eighth. That every Bill to be passed in this House
be read three times, and that there be two adjournments of
this House before any Bill be passed into an Act.

Ninth. That the Speaker and eighteen Members be a
House to do business.

Tenth. That no vote that is passed in this House shall
be reconsidered by a less number than was present when it
passed.

Voted, That Mr. Speaker, Doctor Gidding, Mr. Clag-
get, Mr. Langdon, and Colonel Bartlett, be a Committee
to make a draft for an Answer to his Excellency's Speech,
and lay the same before the House as soon as may be.

Saturday, May 6, 1775, A. M.

Met according to adjournment.

The Speaker communicated to the House a Letter di-
rected to him and signed by the Speaker of the House of
Representatives of New-York, requesting the same to be
laid before this House, together with a List of Grievances
and Resolutions of that House in consequence thereof, and
also a Petition to the King, a Memorial to the House of
Lords, and a Representation and Remonstrance to the
Commons of Great Britain ; all which were read, and are
on file.

Mr. Baker, Mr. Langdon, and Doctor Gidding being
appointed a Committee yesterday to wait on his Excellen-

cy and desire he would be pleased to favour the House
with a copy of his Speech to both Houses, was omitted
to be entered then, as also that Mr. II arncr brought a copy
of his Excellency's Speech and delivered it to the Speaker,
as follows :

Gentlemen of the Council, and of the Assembly :

As I cannot doubt but you will exercise your usual dili-
gence in despatching the ordinary business of the Legisla-
ture, it becomes unnecessary for me particularly to urge
your attention to that subject. You may be assured that
I will give all the facility in my power to every measure
that may be found conducive to the publick good ; for as
it heretofore hath been, so shall it constantly remain the
invariable object of my warmest wishes and ambition, to
promote the happiness and prosperity of His Majesty's
Government and subjects of New-Hampshire.

Mr. Speaker and Gentlemen of the Assembly :

It is incumbent on me at this time to recommend to you
to grant the necessary supply for the support of His Ma-
jesty's Government for the current year; but 1 doubt not
you will cheerfully make proper provision for that purpose.
The Treasurer's accounts for the year past, I shall order
to be prepared for your inspection.

We cannot but view with inexpressible concern the
alarming pitch to which the unfortunate dispute between
Great Britain and her Colonies is daily advancing. A
matter of such a momentous nature, which fills every hu-
mane mind with the deepest anxiety and affliction, and
wherein this Province is unhappily involved, cannot, 1 pre-
sume, fail of engaging your most serious attention. It is
therefore my duty, at such a critical and important moment,
to call, in the tnost earnest and most solemn manner, upon
you, gentlemen, who are the only constitutional and legal
Representatives of the people, to direct your counsels to
such measures as may tend to secure their peace and safety.

On the wisdom, candour, and moderation of your de-
liberations it will greatly depend to avert the calamities
that must naturally attend a continuance of this unhappy
contest ; and I trust your conduct will be guided by such
principles as shall effectually lead to a restoration of the
publick tranquillity and a perfect re-establishment of an
affectionate reconciliation with our Mother Country, upon
a solid, equitable, and permanent foundation.

Gentlemen of the Council, and of the Assembly :

Connected as we are with our Parent State by the
strongest ties of kindred, religion, duty, and interest, it is
highly incumbent upon us, in this time of general disquie-
tude, to manifest our loyalty and attachment to the best of
Sovereigns, and our firm and unshaken regard for the Bri-
tish Empire ; and I have full confidence that those great
considerations will influence every part of your conduct.
You may entirely rely on my most ardent zeal to co-ope-
rate with you in whatever constitutional means may be
found necessary to accomplish that most essential object to
the well-being of this Province — a restoration of our har-
mony with Great Britain. J. Wentworth.

New.Hampshire Council Chamber, }
May 5, 1775. $

The Honourable Theodore Atkinson came from the
Board and delivered the following written Message from
his Excellency :

Mr. Speaker and Gentlemen of the Assembly :

The Speaker, Mr. Gidding, and Mr. Langdon, three
of your Members, came to me last evening as a Committee
from the House, desiring a short adjournment. I am
always disposed to show every indulgent regard in my
power to the wishes of the House ; but when I consider
what uneasiness prevails at present among your constitu-
ents, of which I dare say you are not insensible, and that
they must look to your counsels for relief from their fears
and jealousies, 1 think it my duty to recommend to you to
consider the matter, and if you should be of opinion that
you will better consult the interests of your constituents by
continuing to sit, I doubt not but your own private con-
cerns will readily give way to the publick welfare.

J. Wentworth.

New-Hampshire Council Chamber, )
May 6, 1775. J

523

CORRESPONDENCE, PROCEEDINGS, kc, MAY, 1773.

521

Upon reading and considering the aforegoing Message,

I oted, That the following be presented to his Excel-
lency as an Answer thereto :

M ay it please your Excellency : In answer to your
Message of this day in consequence of a verbal M
to your Excellency from the House last evening by the
Speaker, Mr. Qidding, and Mr. Langdon, requesting a
short adjournment, we would observe, that we think it not
only very necessary for our private interest, at this par-
ticular season of the year, but especially for the interest
of the Province in general at this peculiarly alarming crisis,
that this House should bo adjourned to some time early in
June next, in order that we may in the mean time have an
opportunity of fully consulting our constituents respecting
the several weighty matters necessary to be considered by
the House the present session.

The Deputy Secretary came from the Board and said
it was his Excellency's pleasure to adjourn the General

Assembly to Monday, the 12th day of June next, and
accordingly, in His Majesty's name, adjourned the Gene-
ral Assembly to that time, and delivered to the Speaker
the following written Message from his Excellency :

Mr. Speaker and Gentlemen of the Assembly:

In consequence of your representation to me, in answer
to my Message of this day's date, that it will be expedient
for you, as well for the accommodation of your own private
affairs as to give an opportunity of consulting your constitu-
ents on the matters necessary to be considered by you in the
present session, that the House should be adjourned for a
short time, I have thought fit to adjourn the General As-
sembly, and it is accordingly adjourned to Monday, the 12th
day of June next, at ten o'clock in the morning, then to
meet at the State-House in Portsmouth for the despatch of
the puhlick business. J. Wentworth.

New-Hampshire Council Chamber,
May 6, 1775.

THOMAS JEFFERSON TO DOCTOR WILLIAM SMALL.

May 7, 1775.

Dear Sir: Within this week we have received the
unhappy news of an action of considerable magnitude be-
tween the King's Troops and our brethren of Boston, in
which, it is said, five hundred of the former, with the Earl
of Percy, are slain. That such an action has occurred is
undoubted, though perhaps the circumstances may not have
reached us with truth. This accident has cut off our last
hope of reconciliation, and a phrenzy of revenge seems to
have seized all ranks of people. It is a lamentable cir-
cumstance that the only mediatory power acknowledged
by both parties, instead of leading to a reconciliation has
divided people, should pursue the incendiary purpose of still
blowing up the flames, as we find him constantly doing in
every speech and publick declaration. This may perhaps
be intended to intimidate into acquiescence ; but the effect
has been most unfortunately otherwise. A little knowledge
of human nature, and attention to its ordinary workings,
might have foreseen that the spirits of the people here
were in a state in which they were more likely to be pro-
voked than frightened by haughty deportment. And to
fill up the measure of irritation, a proscription of individuals
has been substituted in the room of just trial. Can it be
believed that a grateful people will suffer those to be con-
signed to execution, whose sole crime has been the develop-
ing and asserting their rights? Had the Parliament pos-
sessed the power of reflection, they would have avoided a
measure as impotent as it was inflammatory. When I saw
Lord Chatham's Bill, I entertained high hope that a recon-
ciliation could have been brought about. The difference
between his terms and those offered by our Congress might
have been accommodated, if entered on by both parties
with a disposition to accommodate. But the dignity of Par-
liament, it seems, can brook no opposition to its power.
Strange that a set of men who have made sale of their
virtue to the Minister, should yet talk of retaining dignity !
But I am getting into politicks, though I sat down only to
ask your acceptance of the wine, and express my constant
wishes for your happiness. Th. Jefferson.

MASSACHUSETTS COMMITTEE OF SAFETY TO THE COMMIT-
TEE OF SAFETY, CORRESPONDENCE, AND PROTECTION,
IN ALBANY.

In Committee of Safety, Cambridge, }
May 7, 1775. \

Sir : We have received your important and very agree-
able letter of the first of May current, by the worthy Cap-
tain Ten Eyck. While we lament the effusion of the blood
of our friends and fellow-countrymen, shed by more than
brutal cruelty, and urged on by the corrupt administration
of a British Minister of State, yet, amidst all our sorrows
on that melancholy occurrence, we rejoice greatly at the
bright prospect lying before us, in the unanimity of the
Colonies on this extended Continent. We have the highest
satisfaction in the assurances from you, that the City of
Albany continues firm and resolute to co-operate with their
brethren in New-York, and in the several Colonies on the
Continent, in their opposition to the Ministerial plan now

prosecuting against us, and that the City have unanimously
appointed a Committee of Safety, Protection, and Corres-
pondence, which we esteem as a necessary measure to hind
us all in one indissoluble bond of union in the common
cause of the American Colonies. Be assured, sir, that we
shall ever esteem it as our honour and interest to corres-
pond with you at all times on matters tending to promote
the common good. Suffer us to say that we have the
greatest pleasure in your information that the extensive
County of Albany will follow your laudable example, and
the important aid the general cause will receive from our
sister Colony iVew- York. The enclosed, you may depend
upon it, is a well authenticated account of the late engage-
ment in this Colony, and supported by a great number of
affidavits. Permit us to say that you may rely upon the
resolution of the people of this Colony to exert themselves
in every possible way, and have long since devoted their
lives and fortunes in the glorious cause of liberty and their
Country, and that they never can give up their stand to
oppose despotism and tyranny, while they have such full
assurances from their sister Colonies, that they are equally
engaged in the defence of the natural and constitutional
rights of Americans. The blood of our neighbours, untimely
poured out, cries aloud to the survivors to defend the Amt-
rican rights for which they bled and died. We have their
wounds fresh in mind ; and while the Colonies are united,
we have the fullest assurances (under God) of the salva-
tion of our Country.
We are, &.c.

MASSACHUSETTS COMMITTEE OF SAFETY TO COLONEL

JAMES SCAMMON.

In Committee of Safety, Cambridge, )
May 7, 1775. $

We are informed by the Field Officers of the First and
Second Regiments, together with a number of gentlemen
of note in the County of York, that it would be most
agreeable that Captain Johnson Moullon should have the
command of the Regiment to be raised in that County.
The Committee, taking these matters into their most serious
consideration, and the necessity of an Army being formed
as soon as possible, as the salvation of the Country must
depend (under God) on our union and exertions ; and not-
withstanding, sir, you have received orders for enlisting a
Regiment, with a prospect of having the command of the
same, yet we flatter ourselves that you will, when you view
the importance of completing the Army, the delay that may
arise in your quarter should you not consent to come under
Mr. Johnson Moulton, you will cheerfully comply and rest
satisfied, as we conceive it is the interest of your Country
you aim at, and not any emolument or honours that may
respect you as an individual. We doubt not, from these
considerations, you will be actuated by that zeal and ardour
in the cause of your Country that shall promote its truest
interest, and that we shall soon be informed that the Regi-
ment intended to be raised in the County of York is com-
pleted to the satisfaction of officers and men.

We are, &tc.
To Colonel James Scammon.

525

CORRESPONDENCE, PROCEEDINGS, &u.-., m*^,

PROCLAMATION By ADMIRAL GRAVES.

By Samuel Graves, Esq.., Vice-Admiral of the Blue,
and Commander-in-Chief of His Majesty's Ships and
Vessels employed, and to be employed, in the Hirer St.
Lawrence, &.c.

Whereas I have received information that a vessel is ar-
rived at Marblehead with a very considerable quantity of
money on board from a Spanish wreck, which must by all
means be prevented from falling into the hands of the
Rebels : You are therefore hereby required and directed to
sail in His Majesty's Schooner, under your command, to
Marblehead, without a moment's delay of time, and bring
the vessel into Boston Harbour with the money, or remove
the money into the Diana without delay, and let the vessel
follow you hither.

Given under my hand on board His Majesty's Ship Pres-
ton, at Boston, the 7th of May, 1775.

Samuel Graves.

To Lieut. Graves, Commander of His Majesty's Schooner
Diana.

By command of the Admiral :

G. Sefferina.

COMMON COUNCIL OF W1LLIAMSBURGH, VIRGINIA.

At a Court of Common Council for the City of JVil-
liamsburgh, held the eighth day of May, 1775:

Whereas it hath been represented to this Hall, that on
the fourth instant, in the night time, some person or persons
unknown, had broke into the publick Magazine, and taken
from thence sundry Fire-Arms belonging to His Majesty :

We, the Mayor, Aldermen, and Common Council of the
said City, being desirous to maintain peace, order, and good
government, do hereby declare our abhorrence of such
unlawful proceeding, and do require the inhabitants to use
their utmost endeavours to prevent the like outrage in fu-
ture, and exhort all persons who may be in possession of any
of the said Arms, to return the same immediately, to be re-
placed in the Magazine.

And it having been recommended to this meeting, by
the Governour and Council, to appoint a guard to protect
the said Magazine, they are of opinion that they have no
authority to lay any tax for that purpose, but that if some
trusty person should be appointed by his Excellency the
Governour to be keeper thereof, and care taken to strengthen
it with proper bars, there probably would be a stop put to
violences of that nature ; and they do humbly recommend
to his Excellency Mr. Gabriel Maupin, who lives near the
Magazine, as a person worthy of that trust.

Matthew Davenport, Town Clerk.

Sussex county (virginia) committee.

At a meeting of the Committee for the County of Sus-
sex, at the Court-House, Monday, 8th of May, 1775 :

Present : David Mason, Augustine Claiborne, Michael
Blow, Henry Gee, John Cargill, William Nicholson,
William Blunt, Robert Jones, John Peters, John Mason,
Jr., James Jones, George Rieves, Richard Parker, and
George Booth, gentlemen.

Resolved, That the thanks of this Committee be given
to the Rev. Mr. Campbell, for his excellent prayer of this
morning, prior to the Committee entering upon business.

This Committee taking into consideration a paragraph
which appears in the publick newspapers, said to be ex-
tracted from a letter written to Lord Dartmouth, one of
His Majesty's principal Secretaries of State, by Lord Dun-
more, Governour of Virginia, on the twenty-fourth day of
December last :

Resolved unanimously, as their opinion, That the said
extracts (being fraught with calumny, falsehoods, and illibe-
ral reflections against the good people of this Colony in
general, who are now, and for some time past have been,
contending for their dearest rights in the most decent and
orderly manner) can be no other than a wicked and detest-
able forgery, or the work of some dirty ministerial syco-
phant, intending to widen our present unhappy differences
with the Mother Country, and impress the people of this
Colony with unfavourable sentiments of a ruler who, they
are unwilling to believe, would so meanly forfeit that gene-

ral esteem he had, by a mild and pacific!: administration,
so generally acquired. With this opinion of the said ex-
tracts, this Committee cannot forbear, however reluctantly,
to observe, that a late manunivre in seizing the powder in
the publick magazine of this Colony, and privately con-
veying it away in the night, together with his evasive answer
to the addresses of the Corporation of the City of Wil-
liamsburgh, presented to his Lordship upon that occasion,
but too plainly point out to this Colony that the first Ma-
gistrate has swerved from the line of conduct which has
hitherto marked his administration, and impressed this
Committee with an idea that his private wishes are un-
favourable to the welfare of this Colony, and the liberties
of mankind. Wo other motives, we presume, could have
actuated him to the commission of an act conceived in
secrecy and brought forth in darkness ; the design of which
was evidently to render (at least as far as in his power so
to do) this Colony defenceless, and lay it open to the at-
tacks of a savage invasion, or a domestick foe, which a late
Proclamation threatens us with, and which his Excellency
could not be ignorant of.

Resolved unanimously, That it is absolutely necessary
that this County be put into the best posture of defence
possible ; and to that end, that a meeting of the people be
convened at the following places, on the following respec-
tive days, that is to say: those that muster under Captains
Moore, Judkins, and Mason, at Brou-n's Quarter, on Tues-
day the sixteenth instant ; those that muster under Cap-
tains Jones, Smith, Hill, and Marrable, at the High-Hills
on the seventeenth ; and those that muster under Captains
JS'icholson, Parker, Reeves, Irby, and Harrison, at the
plantation lately belonging to Captain James Jones, on the
nineteenth; and that they, and every of them, do bring
with them to the said several meetings what arms they and
every of them have. And this Committee do earnestly
request the Field-Officers and Captains to attend the said
several meetings, in order to animate the people in the pre-
sent time of danger to compliance of the Resolutions of
the late Convention.

Resolved unanimously, That we, the members of this
Committee now present, and every of us, will, in order to
raise a sufficient sum of money to purchase Ammunition, in
this time of imminent danger, pay, by way of contribution
for that purpose, the sum of ten Pounds, current money, on
or before the first day of June next. And as we doubt not
but the absent members of this Committee will do the same
for themselves, therefore Messrs. John Cargill, Jas. Jones,
and George Reeves, are requested immediately to purchase
ammunition for the use of this County, to the amount of
two hundred Pounds, current money, the present members
engaging to indemnify them in such purchase ; and that they
make report of their proceedings to the next Committee.

Resolved unanimously, That a Committee of Intelli-
gence and Correspondence be appointed, of the following
persons, that is to say : Messrs. Blow, Pcete, Nicholson,
Cargill, Gee, David Mason, Claiborne, and Blunt ; that
upon they, or any one of them, receiving an alarm, he or
they do forthwith fall upon the best method in his or their
power, to give notice of such alarm throughout this County,
and also to some one or more of the Committees of Sotith-
ampton and Brunswick, fixing upon the most convenient
place for the people to rendezvous at, being guided therein
by the quarter threatened most with an invasion, insurrec-
tion, or other attack.

Ordered, That the proceedings of this day be transmitted
by the Chairman, as soon as may be convenient, to the
press, in order to their publication.

Michael Blow, Chairman.

mecklenburgh county (virginia) committee.

At a general meeting of the Freeholders of Mecklen-
burgh County, convened on Monday, the 8th day of May,
1775, at the Court-House of said County, in order to elect
a Committee, pursuant to a Resolution of the American
Continental Congress : The better to secure a due obser-
vation of the Association entered into by said Congress,
the Freeholders then proceeded to the choice of a Com-
mittee, and elected into the office the following gentlemen,
viz : John Speed, Bennett Goode, William Ducas, Henry
Speed, Francis RnJ/in, Leivis Bur well, Robert Burton,

^——^nsKESPUNUEME, PROCEEDINGS, &c, MAY, 1775.

528

Edmund Tat/lor, Cleverious Coleman, Thacker Burwell,
Sir Peyton Skipirith, Benjamin Whitehead, George Bas-
kf.rrille, Jhu/ien I'aughan. Joseph Speed, John Tabb,
John Jones, William Leigh, Robert Ballard, Samuel
Hopkins, Junior, and John Ballard, Junior.

John Speed, Esq., was unanimously chosen Chairman,
and Mr. Isaac Holmes, Clerk of this Committee.

Resolved unanimously, That every member of this Com-
mittee exert his endeavours to enlist Volunteer Soldiers,
agreeable to the Resolution of the late Provincial Conven-
tion.

It being too late in the day to proceed on business^ the
Committee adjourned to Saturday, the 13th of May, 1775.

Saturday, M ly 13, 1773.

The Committee met according to adjournment, and came
to the following Resolves :

The Resolves of the Convention held at the Town of
Richmond, the 20th of March, 1775, were read, and unani-
mously approved of.

Resolved, That the thanks of this Committee be pre-
sented to Robert Burton and Bennett Goode, Esquires,
our worthy Delegates, for their faithful discharge of the
important trust reposed in them.

Resolved unanimously, That the removal of the Gun-
powder out of the Magazine, by express orders of Lord
Dunmore, is truly alarming; and that by his answer for
such conduct to the Mayor, Recorder, Aldermen, and
Common Council of the City of Williamsburgh, on that
important occasion, he has highly forfeited all title to the
confidence of the good people of Virginia.

Ordered, That the Clerk send copies of these Resolves
to each of the Printers, and they are desired to publish
them in their next Gazettes.

Isaac Holmes, Clerk.

PRINCE GEORGE (VIRGINIA) COMMITTEE.

At a meeting of the Committee for Prince George's
County, held at Blandford, on Monday, the 8th of May,
1775, the following Resolutions were entered into, viz :

Resolved, nem. con., That every Merchant, Trader, or
other person, importing any Goods, Wares, or Merchan-
dise into this County, before he lands the same ought to
produce to the Chairman of this Committee a certificate
from the Chairman of the Committee of the County,
Town, or City, from whence the said Goods, Wares, or
Merchandise were re-shipped, that the same were imported
into this Colony before the first day of February.

Resolved, That a Committee of Intelligence, consisting
of Benjamin Harrison, of Brandon, David Meade, Rich-
ard K. Meade, Hubbard Wyatt, Peter Eppes, James
Cocke, Nathaniel Harrison, John Baird, Robert Boyd,
William McWhann, Richard Bland, Junior, Theodorick
Bland, Junior, Nathaniel Raines, Thomas Bonner, and
John Raines, Senior, be appointed to convey any alarm,
as speedily as possible, to the adjacent Counties ; and that
the same mode be recommended to every County in this
Colony.

Ordered, That a copy of the above Resolutions be
transmitted to the Printer, and he is desired to publish
them as soon as possible.

By order of the Committee :

Hartwell Raines, Secretary.

At a Committee held for the County of Prince George,
the 8th of May, 1775. Present: twenty Members.

The following Letter from the Committee of the Bo-
rough of Norfolk to the Chairman of this Committee, was
read, viz :

Norfolk, May 1, 1775.

A charge was laid before the Committee for Norfolk
Borough, that Mr. James Marsden had purchased of Cap-
tain Fazakerly one puncheon of Linens, imported since
the 1st of February, and that he had furnished him with
twenty barrels of Pork. Upon inquiry, it appeared that
Mr. Marsden knew nothing about the Linens, but furnished
Captain Fazakerly with the Pork by order of Captain
Charles Alexander.

As there may have been some foundation for the charge,

I am directed by this Committee to request you will please
to inquire of Captain Alexander for what consideration he
gave the order. William Davies, Secretary.

Captain Charles Alexander being requested, did attend
the Committee, and made the following confession, viz:

That he had himself purchased the Linens inadvertently,
without considering the consequence of violating the Reso-
lutions of the Continental Congress, to which he acknow-
ledged he ought to have paid agreeable regard ; and he is
extremely sorry for having thus incurred the displeasure of
the good people of America, and thereby forfeited that
good opinion which he would be always happy to have,
and those favours which he might otherwise have hoped to
have enjoyed from them. He also confesses that Mr.
Marsden was acquainted with the circumstances of the said
goods being imported contrary to the terms of the Asso-
ciation, subsequent to the said Alexander's purchasing of
them ; and that the said Marsden paid the Pork to the
order above-mentioned, knowing that it was for part of the
price of the said Linens, and afterwards sent the said Lin-
ens, and a parcel of Shoes, with an invoice thereof, ac-
companied with a Letter, to Humphrey Richards, factor for
the said Alexander, in Blandford, signed Marsden, Max-
well, and Company. And the said Alexander further says,
that the order he gave on Mr. Marsden to pay the Pork
to Captain Fazakerly, was a conditional order, to pay Cap-
tain Fazakerly, in case the Convention then sitting should
consent to the sale of the said goods, as there was then a
Petition before the Convention for that purpose. Captain
Alexander has further voluntarily agreed to re-ship the
Linens, and a parcel of Shoes (under the same circum-
stances) remaining unsold, at his own cost, or store them
under the inspection of the Committee ; and that the profits
arising upon such part thereof as are already sold, amount-
ing to ... . shall be lodged in the hands of this Com-
mittee, for the use of, and forthwith to be sent to the poor
of Boston. Chas. Alexander.

The above examination was transmitted to the Commit-
tee of the Borough of Norfolk ; in consequence of which
the following Letter from the Committee of the said Bo-
rough, directed to the Chairman of the Committee of
Prince George, the 3d day of July, 1775, when twenty-
four of the members were present, Richard Bland, Es-
quire, in the Chair, was read :

Norfolk, May 22, 1775.

Gentlemen : As Captain Alexander is within your ju-
risdiction, the Committee of this Borough are clearly of
opinion that they have no authority to take up the matter
with respect to his conduct, but only as far as relates to
Mr. Marsden. It is therefore the request of this Commit-
tee, that you will please to resume the consideration of
Captain Alexander's conduct, and take such steps therein
as you may think proper. With respect to the part Mr.
Marsden took in the matter, Captain Alexander denies
that he was in any wise concerned, and that the facts con-
tained in your letter have been mistaken by you. His tes-
timony here directly contradicts his testimony before you.
We therefore send you his examination, taken in writing,
and repeatedly read and assented to by him. We shall
be glad to be favoured with your answer.

William Davies, Secretary.

Captain Alexander's Examination at Norfolk Bo-
rough.

Question. Did Mr. Marsden know of your purchasing
the Linens, &x., from Captain Fazakerly 1

Answer. 1 cannot tell positively, but think he did not
know of my purchase.

Q. Did Mr. Marsden pay the Pork to your order,
knowing that it was for part of the purchase of the said
Linens ?

A. He did not.

Q. Did Mr. Marsden send the Linens, and a parcel of
Shoes, with an invoice thereof, accompanied with a letter,
to Mr. Humphrey Richards, signed Marsden, Maxwell,
and Company, or not ?

A. He did not, but there was a letter directed to me,
written by Mr. Marsden's young man, (John Elm) in their
name.

Q. Was the condition respecting the consent of the

529

CORRESPONDENCE, PROCEEDINGS, &c, MAY, 1775.

530

Convention for Captain Fazakerly to sell his Goods, ex-
pressed in the order, or not ?

A. It was not, but was only agreed to verbally between
the Captain and myself.

The said Charles Alexander having had proper notice,
and failing to attend ; and the Committee taking into their
consideration the aforesaid Letter and Examination,

Resolved unanimously, That the said Charles Alexander
has infringed the Tenth Article of the Continental Con-
gress, and that he be held up to the publick as inimical to
America, agreeable to the Eleventh Article of the Conti-
nental Association; and it is recommended to the good
people of America to break off all dealings with the said
Charles Alexander, his Factors, or Agents.

By order of the Committee :

Hartwell Raines, Secretary.

LOUISA COUNTY (VIRGINIA) COMMITTEE.

At a Committee held for the County of Louisa, at the
Court-House, the 8th of May, 1775:

The Committee being fully sensible of the benefits that
may redound to the community in general from the spirit-
ed behaviour of Captain Patrick Henry, and the other
Officers and Gentlemen Soldiers of the Volunteer Compa-
ny of Hanover, in procuring satisfaction for the Gunpowder
taken out of the Colony's Magazine, beg leave to return
them our most hearty thanks.

Thomas Walker,

William White,

James Dabney,

Charles Barrett,

Samuel Ragland,

William Pettus,

Waddy Thompson,
Signed by the whole Committee, except one, who was
absent. Henry Garritt, Clerk.

Garritt Minor,
Thos. Johnson, Jun.,
Thos. Johnson, Sen.,
Nathl. Anderson,
John Crutchfield,
Robert Anderson,
Charles Smith.

MEETING OF FREEHOLDERS OF WESTCHESTER COUNTY,
NEW-YORK.

At a meeting of the Freeholders of the County of West-
chester, at the White-Plains, on Monday, the 8th day of
May, 1775, pursuant to a general notice for that purpose,
they did appoint a Committee of ninety persons for the
said County, and determined that any twenty of them
should be empowered to act for the said County, and then
appointed the following persons (nominated by the said
Committee) to represent the said County in Provincial Con-
vention, viz :

Gouverneur Morris, Lewis Graham, James Van Cort-
landt, Stephen Ward, Joseph Drake, Philip Van Corl-
landt, James Holmes, David Dayton, John Thomas, Jun.,
Robert Graham, William Paulding.

The Committee then signed an Association, similar to
that which was signed in the City of New- York, and ap-
pointed Sub-Committees to superintend the signing of the
same throughout the County.

By order of the Committee:

James Van Cortlandt, Chairman.

NEW-YORK COMMITTEE.

The Committee met, by adjournment, Monday, May 8,
1775. Present :

P. V. B. Livingston,
Isaac Sears,
Alex. McDougall,
Thomas Randall,
Leonard Lispenard,
William Walton,
Joseph Hallott,
Nicholas Hoffman,
Henry Remsen,
Peter T. Curtenius,
Abraham Brasher,
Joseph Bull,
Joseph Totten,
Thomas Ivers,
Hercules Mulligan,
John Anthony,
John Whit.;, *
Theophilus Anthony,
William Goforth,
Cornelius P. Low,

William Donning,
Isaac Roosevelt,
Jacob Van Voorhies,
Robert Benson,
William W. Gilbert,
John Berrian,
Gabriel W. Ludlow,
Nicholas Roosevelt,
Edward Fleming,
Lawrence Embree,
William W. Ludlow,
John B. Moore,
Lancaster Burling,
John Lasher,
George Janeway,
David Clarkson,
Thomas Smith,
Jamus Desbrosses,
Eleaz»r Miller,
Thomas Buchaanan,

Fourth Series. — Vol. ii.

John M. Scott,
Cornelius Clopper,
John Reade,
Jacobus Van Zandt,
Gerardus Duyckinck,
John Marston,
Jacobus Lefferts,
Richard Sharpe,
Hamilton Young,
Abram. Brinkerhoff,
Benjamin Helme,
Evert Banker,
Robert Ray,
Nicholas Bogart,
John Lamb,
Anthony Van Dam,
John Imiay,
Oliver Templeton,
Lewis Pintard,
Petrus Byvanck.

Mr. McDougall, seconded by Mr. Scott, moved in the
words following, viz :

Whereas it is necessary for the maintenance of the liber-
ties of this and the neighbouring Colonies, that every per-
son in this City and County who now have Arms or Am-
munition, or other articles which will be wanted for our
defence, to dispose of, or may import any of those articles
for sale, should make the same known to some friend of
the Country. And whereas, the disposal of any of those
articles to any person other than such who will put them
into the hands of men well-affected to the liberties of Ame-
rica may tend to enslave this Country, I therefore move
that this Committee come into the following Resolutions,
viz :

1. Resolved, That any person in this City or County
who have Arms, Ammunition, or the other articles neces-
sary for our defence, to dispose of, or shall import any of
those articles for sale, and shall not, within ten days after
the publication of these Resolutions, or in ten days after
the importation of such Arms, Ammunition, &,c, aforesaid,
inform the Chairman or Deputy Chairman of this Commit-
tee of the quantity and quality of the same, he shall be
held up to the publick as an enemy to this Country.

2. Resolved, That any person in this City or County,
who shall, during the unhappy contest with our Parent
State, dispose of any Arms, Ammunition, or other articles
aforesaid, to any person, knowing or having reason to be-
lieve such person to be inimical to the liberties of America,
or shall put those articles in the hands of any such person,
or any other person, knowing or having reason to believe
that they are to be used against those liberties, he shall be
held up as an enemy to this Country.

Which being unanimously agreed to,

Ordered, That the same be published in handbills.

Mr. Smith, seconded by Mr. Clarkson, made a motion
in the words following, viz:

I move that the Committee address his Honour the Lieu-
tenant Governour, requesting that he would immediately
apply to General Gage to give orders, in case any Troops
should arrive here from Great Britain or Ireland, that they
encamp on Staten Island, and not be permitted to land in
this City ; and that in case any Troops should arrive here
before an answer can be had from General Gage, that in
that case his Honour would apply to the Commanding Of-
ficer of such Troops, requesting that they may be landed
and encamped on Staten Island.

Which being unanimously agreed to,

Ordered, That an Address be accordingly drawn up and
ingrafted in the former Address ordered to be presented to
his Honour.

A Letter, dated Newark, 5th May, 1775, from the
Committee of Correspondence, received and read.

A Letter, dated Suffolk County, 5th May, 1775, from
William Smith, received and read.

Mr. Scott, from the Committee of Correspondence,
reported the draught of a Letter in answer to one of the
3d instant from Albany, which being read and approved of,

Ordered, That the same be engrossed and forwarded.

The Committee adjourned till to-morrow, the 9th instant.

The Committee met, by adjournment, Tuesday, 9th of
May, 1775. Present:

P. V. B. Livingston, Chairman, pro tern.

Isaac Scars,
Alex. McDougall,
Thomas Randall,
Nicholas Hoffman,
Peter Van Schaack,
Abraham P. Lott,
Abraham Duryee,
Joseph Bull,
Joseph Totten,
Thomas Ivors,
Hercules Mulligan,
Theophilus Anthony,
William Goforth,
Isaac Roosevelt,
Comfort Sands,

William W. Gilbert,
John Berrian,
Gabriel W. Ludlow,
Edward Fleming,
William W. Ludlow,
Rodolphus Ritzma,
John Lasher,
James Desbrosses,
Aug. Van Home,
Cornelius Clopper,
Jacobus Van Zandt,
Gerardus Duyckinck,
Thomas Marston,
Jacobus Lefferts,
Richard Sharpe,

Abram. Brinkerhoff",
Benjamin Helme,
David Beekman,
Evert Banker,
Robert Ray,
Nicholas Bogart,
John Lamb,
Anthony Van Dam,
Daniel Dunscomb,
John Imlay,
Oliver Templeton,
Lewis Pintard,
Thomas Buchannan,
Petrus Byvanck,
Francis Bassett,

Ordered, That the Committee of Correspondence be
directed, without delay, to draught and report to this Board
a Resolution for regulating the conduct of the Owners.
Masters, and Mates, of such Vessels as shall depart from
this Port with Provisions.

34

531

CORRESPONDENCE, PROCEEDINGS, fcc, MAY, 1775.

532

A Letter, dated Kingsland District, Tryon County, 19lh
April, 1775, from If illiam Petri, received and read.

Ordered, That the Committee of Correspondence be
directed to draught and report an Answer to the ahove
Letter.

Mr. Lamb, seconded by Mr. McDougall, moved in the
words following, viz :

As the Firelocks belonging to this City are at present
only fitted with ordinary wooden rammers, and conse-
quently cannot be of much use in case of necessity, I move
that a Sub-Committee be appointed to wait on the Cor-
poration, to request that they will give directions to have
them fitted with Steel Rammers.

Ordered, That Mr. Sharpc, Mr. Curtenius, and Mr.
Rilzma, be a Committee for the above purpose.

Ordered, That the Letter to the Lord Mayor of Lon-
don be published in Monday's Paper.

On motion, Ordered, That the Chairman return the
thanks of this Committee to Mr. Sharpe, for delivering a
number of Arms gratis to the inhabitants of this City.

Committee adjourned until to-morrow afternoon.

The Committee met by adjournment, Wednesday, May
10, 1775. Present:

P. V. B. Livingston,
Isaac Sears,
Alex. McDougall,
Thomas Randall,
Leonard Lispenard,
John Broome,
Joseph Hallett,
Gabriel H. Ludlow,
Nicholas Hoffman,
Henry Remsen,
Peter T. Curtenius,
Abraham Brasher,
Abraham P. Lolt,
Joseph Bull,
Joseph Totten,
Thomas Ivers,
Hercules Mulligan,
John Anthony,
Francis Bassett,
Victor Bicker,
John White,
Theophilus Anthony,
William Goforth,

William Denning,
Jeremiah Piatt,
Comfort Sands,
Robert Benson,
William W. Gilbert,
John Berrian,
Gabriel W. Ludlow,
Nicholas Roosevelt,
Edward Fleming,
Lawrence Embree,
John De Lancey,
Frederick Jay,
William W. Ludlow,
John B. Moore,
Rodolphus Ritzma,
Lancaster Burling,
John Lasher,
George Janeway,
James Beekman,
David Clarkson,
James Dosbrosses,
Benjamin Kissam,
John M. Scott,

Gerardus Duyckinck,
Peter Goelet,
John Marston,
Thomas Marston,
Jacobus Lefferts,
Richard Sharpe,
Hamilton Young,
Abram. Brinkerhoff,
Benjamin Helme,
David Beekman,
William Seaton,
Evert Banker,
Robert Ray,
Nicholas Bogart,
Samuel Broome,
John Lamb,
Anthony Van Dam,
Daniel Dunscomb,
John Imlay,
Oliver Templeton,
Lewis Pintard,
Cornelius P. Low,
Petrus Byvanck.

Ordered, That Mr. McDougall and Mr. Kissam be di-
rected to draught a Letter to the gentlemen in Delegation
for this City and County, requesting the advice and direc-
tion of the Continental Congress now sitting at Philadel-
phia, with respect to the conduct to be observed by the
inhabitants of this City toward any Troops that may arrive
here.

In pursuance of the above Order, Mr. Kissam reported
and read the draught of a Letter to the above gentlemen
at Philadelphia.

Ordered, That the same be engrossed and forwarded.

Mr. Scott, from the Committee of Correspondence, re-
ported the draught of an Address to his Honour the Lieu-
tenant-Governour, which being read and approved of,

Ordered, That copies thereof be engrossed, and that
Mr. De Lancey, Captain Randall, and Mr. John Marston
be a Sub-Committee to wait on his Honour to know when
be would be pleased to receive the said Address.

The Committee met by adjournment, on Thursday, the
Uth of May, 1775. Present :

P. V. B. Livingston,
Isaac Sears,
Alex. McDougall,
Leonard Lispenard,
William Walton,
John Broome,
Gabriel H. Ludlow,
Nicholas Hoffman,
Abraham Walton,
Peter Van Schaack,
H mry Remsen,
Abraham Brasher,
Abraham P. Lott,
Abraham Duryee,
Joseph Totten,
Robert Ray,
Nicholas Bogart,
Oliver Templeton,
Thomas Ivers,

A Letter, dated Albany, 8th May, 1775, from the Com-
mittee of Correspondence, received and read.

Hercules Mulligan,
John Anthony,
Francis Bassott,
Tiieophilus Anthony,
William Goforth,
William Denning,
Isaac Roosevelt,
Robert Benson,
William W. Gilbert,
John Berrian,
Gabriel W. Ludlow,
Edward Fleming,
Frederick Jay,
William W. Ludlow,
Daniel Phenix,
Anthony Van Dam,
Lewis Pintard,
John B. Moore,

G 3orge- Janeway,
James Beekman,
Gerret Ketletas,
li nj i min Kissam,
Cornelius Clopper,
John Reade,
Jacobus Van Zandt,
Gerardus Duyckinck,
Jacobus Lefferts,
Richard Sharpe,
Hamilton Young,
Abram. Brinkerhoff,
Benjamin Helme,
Evert Banker,
Daniel Dunscomb,
John Imlay,
Cornelius P. Low,
Thomas Buchannan.

On motion, Ordered, That the Circular Letter of this
Board to the neighbouring Colonies be printed.

Ordered, That Mr. John Broome, Mr. Benson, and
Mr. Phenix, be a Sub-Committee to convey the earliest
intelligence to the Committees of the several Counties in
thifl Province of all such matters as they shall judge neces-
sary to communicate, and they are hereby authorized to
transmit such intelligence without previously laying it be-
fore this Committee for their approbation.

Resolved, That it is the opinion of this Committee that
the Physicians and others in this City and County, who
are in the practice of Innoculating for the Small Pox, be
requested immediately to desist from Innoculating in this
City and County, until the sense of this Committee be sig-
nified lo the contrary ; and that this Resolution be publish-
ed in the several Newspapers in this City.

The Committee adjourned till to-morrow morning.

The Committee met by adjournment, Friday, May 1 2,
1775. Present:

P. V. B. Livingston,
Isaac Sears,
Alex. McDougall,
Thomas Randall,
Leonard Lispenard,
William Walton,
John Broome,
Joseph Hallett,
Nicholas Hoffman,
Abraham Walton,
Peter Van Schaack,
Henry Remsen,
Peter T. Curtenius,
Abraham Brasher,
Abraham P. Lott,
Abraham Duryee,
Joseph Bull,
Joseph Totten,
Thomas Ivers,
John Anthony,
Victor Bicker,
John White,

Theophilus Anthony,
William Goforth,
William Denning,
Isaac Roosevelt,
Comfort Sands,
Robert Benson,
William W. Gilbert,
John Berrian,
Gabriel W. Ludlow,
Edward Fleming,
John De Lancey,
Frederick Jay,
William W. Ludlow,
John B. Moore,
John Lasher,
James Beekman,
Augustus Van Home,
Gerret Ketletas,
Benjamin Kissam,
John M. Scott,
Cornelius Clopper,
John Reade,

Jacobus Van Zandt,
Gerardus Duyckinck,
Peter Goelet,
Jacobus Lefferts,
Richard Sharpe,
Abram. Brinkerhoff,
Benjamin Helme,
Walter Franklin,
David Beekman,
Evert Banker,
Robert Ray,
Nicholas Bogart,
Daniel Phenix,
Daniel Dunscomb,
John Imlay,
Oliver Templeton,
Lewis Pintard,
Cornelius P. Low,
Thomas Buchannan,
Nicholas Roosevelt,
George Janeway.

Captain Randall, from the Committee appointed to wait
on his Honour the Lieutenant-Governour, to know when it
would be his pleasure to receive the Address of this Com-
mittee, reported that his Honour would be ready to receive
the Address to-morrow at twelve o'clock, at Jamaica.

Ordered,. That Mr. C. P. Low, Mr. Van Dam, Colonel
Walton, Captain Randall, Mr. De Lancey, Mr. T. Mars-
ton, Mr. Van Schaack, Mr. Sharpe, Mr. Duyckinck, Mr.
Templeton, Mr. Beekman, Mr. Kissam, Mr. Scott, Mr.
Remsen, Mr. Duryee, Mr. A. Walton, and Mr. F. Jay, be a
Committee to present the said Address ; and that they be
charged to apply to the principal people of the Towns of
Jamaica, Hempstead, and Oyster Bay, to represent to them
the necessity of their joining with their countrymen in
sending Delegates to the Provincial Congress.

A Letter, dated Philadelphia, 11th May, 1775, from
Mr. Barclay, received and read ; referred to the Commit-
tee of Correspondence to answer.

Mr. McDougall, seconded by Mr. Fleming, moved that
the Committee of Correspondence be directed to draught
and report, without delay, two Resolutions relative to the
conduct proper to be observed by the citizens to those who
do not sign the Association, and to direct that no inhabitant
of this City and County be treated as an enemy to his
Country, but by the determination of the Continental or
Provincial Congress, or by this Committee.

Committee adjourned to Monday, 15th May, 1775.

At a Special Meeting of the Committee, Sunday, 14th
May, 1775, Present:

Alex. McDougall,
Leonard Lispenard,
Joseph Hallett,
Nicholas Hoffman,
Henry Remsen,
Abraham Brasher,
Abraham P. Lott,
Abraham Duryee,
Joseph Bull,
Joseph Totten,
Thomas Ivers,
Hercules Mulligan,
John Anthony,
Francis Bassett,
Victor Bicker,
John White,
Theophilus Anthony,

William Goforth,
William Denning,
Isaac Roosevelt,
Jacob Van Voorhies,
Jeremiah Piatt,
Comfort Sands,
Robert Benson,
William W. Gilbert,
John Berrian,
Nicholas Roosevelt,
Edward Fleming,
William W. Ludlow,
John B. Moore,
Rodolphus Ritzma,
Lancaster Burling,
John Lasher,
James Beekman,

Samuel Verplanck,
Richard Yates,
Gerret Ketletas,
John Van Cortlandt,
Jacobus Lefferts,
Abram. Brinkerhoff,
Benjamin Helme,
David Beekman,
Robert Ray,
Nicholas Bogart,
William Laight,
Daniel Phenix,
Anthony Van Dam,
Daniel Dunscomb,
John Imlay,
Cornelius Peter Low,
Petrus Byvanck.

533

CORRESPONDENCE, PROCEEDINGS, fcc, MAY, 1775.

534

Ordered, That the Address from this Committee, as
presented yesterday to Lieutenant-Governour Colden, with
his Answer now read, be published.

Whereas, it is strongly suspected that the Man-of-War
now in this Harbour is supplied from some part of the
Jersey and Staten Island, with Provisions and other neces-
saries, with intent to ship the same to Boston for the use
of the Army and Navy :

Ordered, That the Committee of Correspondence write
to such of the neighbouring Committees, as also to such
persons as they shall think necessary, requesting them to
use all possible means for preventing the same.

Adjourned till to-morrow afternoon, at 4 o'clock.

To the Honourable Cadwallader Colden, Esquire,
Lieutenant-Governour and Commander-in-Chief of
His Majesty's Colony of New-York, and the Ter-
ritories thereon depending, in America, Sfc. :

The Humble Address of the General Committee of As-
sociation for the City and County of New- York :

May it please your Honour :

It frequently happens, under every form of Govern-
ment, that the measures of Administration excite the just
jealousies of the people, and that the same measures pur-
sued divest them of all confidence in those in whose hands
the ordinary executive powers are lodged. In such a state
of things it is natural for the people to cast their eyes upon
those of their fellow sufferers on whose abilities and in-
tegrity they can rely, and to ask their advice and direction
for the preservation of all that is dear and valuable to
them.

That such is the frame and temper of our inhabitants,
you have had the fullest opportunity to know in the course
of that residence with which you have lately honoured us.

This City and County, as well as the rest of the Colo-
ny, have exercised the greatest patience in waiting, though
in vain, for a redress of the many unconstitutional and op-
pressive burdens under which this whole Continent has
groaned for several years past. To their inexpressible
grief they have found that the most dutiful applications
for redress have not only been rejected, but have been
answered by reiterated violations of their rights.

You cannot, therefore, wonder, Sir, that at this most in-
teresting crisis, when their all is at stake, and when, under
the authority of Administration, the sword has been drawn,
though unsuccessfully, against their brethren of the Massa-
chusetts, for asserting those invaluable rights which are the
common inheritance of Britons and Americans, that the
City and County of New- York have proceeded to asso-
ciate in the common cause, and to the election of a Com-
mittee and Delegates in Congress, to represent them in
their claims, and to direct their counsels and conduct for
the preservation of those inestimable privileges to which
the great Creator, the order of their being as rational
creatures, and our happy Constitution, have given them an
undoubted title.

To this important end they have unanimously invested
us, their Committee, with a trust, which we are determined,
with the best of our abilities and most faithfully to dis-
charge ; and in the execution of which we think it our in-
dispensable duty to declare :

That our constituents, while they cheerfully yield that
the Legislature of the Parent State may make provisions
in their nature merely calculated to regulate the Trade of
the Empire; yet they claim as their indefeisible birthright
a total exemption from all taxes, internal and external, by
authority of Parliament, and from every aid to the Crown,
but on royal requisitions to their Representatives in Assem-
bly, constitutionally convened, and freely deliberating and
determining upon every such requisition.

That they never can, nor will submit to the establish-
ment of unconstitutional admiralty jurisdictions ; but will
ever regard them as engines that may be employed for the
most tyrannical purposes.

That they are determined never to part with their pre-
cious, and lately invaded right, of trial by peers of their
vicinage, in any case whatsoever.

That they look with the utmost dread on every expe-
dient by authority of Parliament, or otherwise, that may
tend to secure from condign punishment offenders against

the most essential rights of human nature, by removing
them for their trial to places distant from the scene of per-
petration, at the discretion of a Governour or Commander-
in-Chief.

That they esteem, and therefore will by every lawful
means oppose the late oppressive restraints upon Com-
merce, as subversive in their nature of the liberties of
America.

That they regard the hostile blockade of the Port of
Boston, the attack upon the venerable Charter rights of
the Massachusetts, the extension of the bounds of Que-
beck, the establishment of Popery and an arbitrary form
of Government in that Province, and the exclusive privi-
leges virtually given to it in the Indian trade, as so many
steps of an ill-judging Administration, that most eminently
endanger the liberty and prosperity of the whole Empire.

That they view with inexpressible horrour, the bloody
standard erected in the Eastern parts of the confederated
Colonies, and feel, as in their own bodies, every stroke
which their brave compatriots have received from the hand
of their fellow-subjects cruelly and unnaturally armed
against them by mistaken ministerial severity.

In short, that they are determined to equip themselves
for maintaining, with successful bravery and resolution, the
unquestionable rights of Englishmen.

Permit us at the same time, Sir, to assure you in their
behalf, that though they are arming with great diligence
and industry, it is not with design to oppose, but to
strengthen Government in the due exercise of constitu-
tional authority. It is to be in a state of readiness to repel
every lawless attack by our superiours, and to prevent the
anarchy and confusion to which ministerial misconduct has
evidently paved the way. It is to defend the liberties of
the subject, and to enable your Honour, and those in office
under you, efficaciously to administer the just Government
of this Colony.

Your Honour cannot but see the sudden transition of
the inhabitants of this Capital from a state of tumult, occa-
sioned by hostilities committed against their brethren, to
tranquillity and good order, as the consequence of our
appointment. It is our ardent wish, Sir, that the same tran-
quillity and good order may be permanent. We look for-
ward, therefore, with deep concern at the expected arrival
of Troops from Great Britain; an event that will probably
be attended with innumerable mischiefs. Their presence
will doubtless revive the resentment of our inhabitants at
the repeatedly avowed designs of subjugating the Colonies
by military force. Mutual jealousies may break out into
reciprocal violence. Thousands will, in that case, be
poured in upon us from our other Counties and the neigh-
bouring Colonies, who, we are well assured, have resolved
to prevent this City from being reduced to the present
situation of Boston. Thus, instead of being a secure gar-
rison-town and place of arms, as is vainly expected by
some, the streets of New-York may be deluged with blood.
Such a destructive evil, we are well assured, your Honour
will do every thing in your power to avert. Permit us
then, Sir, to beseech you to apply to Great Britain for
orders that such Troops as may arrive from Great Britain
or Ireland do not land or encamp in this City and Coun-
ty; and in case of their arrival before your Honour shall
receive the General's answer, to solicit their commanding
officer to the same purpose.

Give us leave, Sir, to conclude by assuring you, that we
are determined to improve that confidence with which the
people have honoured us, in strengthening the hands of
the civil Magistrate, in every lawful measure calculated to
promote the peace and just rule of this Metropolis, and
consistent with that jealous attention which, above all
things, we are bound to pay to the violated rights of
America.

We are, Sir, with the greatest respect, your Honour's
most obedient and humble servants.

Ordered unanimously by the Committee :

Henry Remsen, D. Chairman.

New-York, May 11, 1775.

His Honour's Answer.

Gentlemen : I have the best authority to assure you,
that our most gracious Sovereign and both Houses of Par-
liament have declared their readiness to afford every jusf

535

CORRESPONDENCE, PROCEEDINGS, &c, MAY, 1775.

5.3<i

and reasonable indulgence to the Colonies, whenever they
should make a proper application on the ground of any
real grievances they may have to complain of. This dec-
laration has been followed by a Resolution of the House
of Commons, which it was expected would have manifest-
ed the justice and moderation of Parliament, and a dispo-
sition to comply with every wish of the subjects in Ame-
rica. They offer to forbear every kind of taxation or
assessment on America, except such as are necessary for
the regulation of Commerce, and only require that the
Colonies should make provision by such ways and means
is are best suited to their respective circumstances, for con-
tributing a proportion to the common defence of the Em-
pire, and for the support of their own civil Government
and the administration of justice. His Majesty's Ministers
did not doubt this temper in Parliament would meet with
such a return on the part of the Colonies as would lead to
a happy issue of the present disputes, and to a re-establish-
ment of publick tranquillity on grounds of equity, justice,
and moderation. Is it not, then, to be lamented as the
most unfortunate event, that the patience of the people
was exhausted at the moment of this prospect of a peace-
able and happy accomplishment of all their wishes ? Will
not those in whom they now confide yet endeavour to ob-
tain it ? Must this Country, till now happy and flourishing
beyond parallel, be involved in the dreadful calamities ever
attendant on civil war, while there remains one possible
means untried, by which so great, so cruel an evil might be
averted ? You tell me, gentlemen, that the people have
lost all confidence in the ordinary officers of Government,
and that they have cast their eyes upon you for advice and
direction. 1 cannot divest myself of the most affectionate
concern for the welfare, the peace, and prosperity of the
people over whom I have so long presided as the imme-
diate representative of their august Sovereign ; with whom
I have lived the term of a long life, and among whom I
leave all that is dear and valuable to me.* I am impelled
by my duty, and a most zealous attachment to the interest
and safety of this people, to exhort you not to irritate the
present enraged state of their minds, nor suffer them to
plunge into labyrinths from whence they can neither ad-
vance nor retreat, but through blood and desolation.

His Majesty's Ministers have, in the strongest terms,
expressed the satisfaction with which the King received
the assurances of the loyalty and affection of his faithful
subjects in this Government, and of their ardent desire for
a permanent reconciliation with the Mother Country. 1
cannot, then, conceive upon what grounds a suspicion is
entertained that the City of New- York is to be reduced to
the present state of Boston. I have not had the least in-
timation that any Regular Troops were destined for this
Province. It is proper that General Gage should know
pour sentiments on this subject, and I shall embrace the
first opportunity of communicating your request to him.
At the same time I think there is reason to suspect that
this report has been invented to facilitate the introduction
of an armed force from Connecticut, which, I am told, is
meditated. Will not the apprehension of such a design
rouse you, gentlemen, and every virtuous citizen, to avert,
by every means in your power, a measure so humiliating,
so dangerous to the honour, safety, and freedom of this
Colony ?

I have beheld with inexpressible anxiety the state of

tumult and disorder which raged in the Metropolis of this

Province ; and I am sorry that a recent instance, since your

appointment, revives the threatening prospect of insecurity

to which the inhabitants are reduced. I exhort you to

carry into effect the assurances you give me, that you are

determined to improve that confidence with which the

people have honoured you, in strengthening the hands of

the civil Magistrates. Let this be done immediately, and

with impartial firmness on every occasion ; that the houses,

persons, and property of your fellow-citizens may not be

attacked and insulted with impunity, and every degree of

domestick security and happiness sapped to the foundation.

Cadwalladeb Colden.

May 13, 1775.

• To know what confidence this Colony ought to put in the ossur.
aircos given to our Committee by a certain person who fills a high
post in this Government, it will be sufficient to read tile extracts of the
icttera he wrote to the Ministry, and which have been exhibited before
the Parliament.

i:

To the Honourable Jonathan Trumbull, Esq., Captain-
General and Commander-in- Chief of His Majesty's
Forces in the Colony of Connecticut:

May it please your Honour :

We, your Honour's dutiful Petitioners, inhabitants of that
part of the society of Ridgebury which is within the Town-
ship of Ridgefield, beg leave humbly to represent, that in
the present important struggle for the preservation of the
rights and liberties of this Country, a large number of the
inhabitants of this Parish have appeared firmly attached to
the common cause, and adopted the measures concerted by
the General Congress and recommended by our worthy Rep-
resentatives in the General Assembly ; whilst the Town,
as a body, have rejected and protested against said measures.
That as we presume this was a reason why the appointment
of a Captain of a Company in the Forces now raising for
the defence of this Colony fell upon a member of this
rather than of the fiist society in the Town, but that the
man appointed (Lieutenant Abraham Gray) hath declined
taking a commission in the present service, yet that as he
was not one of those who had openly and publickly mani-
fested a concurrence with us, and with the Country in
general, in pursuing the measures recommended by the
General Congress, we conceive his refusal cannot be reason-
ably construed as any evidence of backwardness among us
to engage in the present service.

We therefore humbly pray that the commission may not
be transferred to any person out of this part of the Town,
especially as we conceive there are men among us as well
qualified to hold it as may be found elsewhere ; and we beg
leave particularly to mention Ichabod Doolittle as a man,
in our apprehension, very suitable for the office, and humbly
pray your Honour to appoint him to take the commission
of a Captain, which the said Lieutenant Gray hath declined ;
and your Honour's Petitioners shall ever pray.

Daniel Colby,
David Rockwell,
Isaac Keeler,
Samuel Bennet,
Samuel Keeler, Jr.,
Zachariah Stearns,
Samuel Northrup,
Bartholomew Weed,
Matthew Northrup,
Thomas Frost, Jr.,
Isaiah Birchard,

Ridgebury, in Ridgefield, May 8, 1775.

Timothy Benedict,
Nathan Stevens,
Jonah Foster,
Nathaniel Stevens,
Abbaham Gray,
Nathan Foster,
William Forester,
Azor Hurlbert,
Jeremiah Birchard,
Abijah Rockwell.

COMMITTEE OF MALDEN AND CHELSEA.

Maiden, May 8, 1775.
The Joint Committee of Maiden and Chelsea met.
Voted, That Captain John Dexter, Tfiomas Hills, and
Jonathan Williams, be a Committee to wait on General
Ward, and inform him that Doctor Samuel Danforth, of
Boston, passes backwards and forwards to that place ; and
from his well known conduct and behaviour, we have reason
to suspect his attachment to our most righteous cause ; like-
wise his screwing Hay, and moving it down to Winnesimmet
Ferry, in order to be removed to Boston ; and that the
Committee has taken care that said Hay shall be removed
to some more secure place.

John Dexter, Chairman.

Hartford, Connecticut, May 8, 1775.

We have the pleasure to acquaint the publick that a
Constitutional Post-Office is now rising on the ruins of the
Parliamentary one, which is just expiring in convulsions.
Mr. William Goddard, encouraged by the friends of liberty
at New- York, hath engaged a faithful rider to proceed from
Mr. John Holt's office on Thursday next, with the Eastern
mails for Philadelphia, and Colonies southward. The first-
mentioned gentleman is arrived here, and will proceed this
day for the Provincial Congress at Watertown, and the
camp near Boston, in order to complete the important
business of his journey, having had the satisfaction of seeing
Constitutional Posts and Postmasters established in every
considerable Town which he hath visited. The patriotick
conduct of the General Assembly of this Colony hath
greatly contributed to the success of Mr. Goddard's enter-

537

CORRESPONDENCE. PROCEEDINGS, &c, MAY, 1775.

538

prise, and it is not doubted but the institution will be
patronised and properly regulated by the Continental Con-
gress. Several of the old Postmasters have resigned their
appointments and engaged in the new plan, and others may
follow their example. Messrs. Peets and Hurd, and Adams
and Hyde, are also employed as riders in the service ot
their Country.

goddard's post-offices.
Persons appointed to receive and forward Letters, fyc.
Cambridge, Mass. Mr. James Winlhrop.
Worcester, " Mr. Isaiah Thomas.

Springfield, " Mr. Moses Church.

Newport, R. Island, The Committee.

Providence, " -

New-London, Conn. Mr. Nathaniel Shaw.

Hartford, " Mr. William Ellery.

Middletown, " Mr. Wesly Hobby.

New-Haven, " Mr. Elias Beers.

Fairfield, " Thaddeus Burr, Esq.

Stamford, " Mr. Ebenezer Weed.

Norwalk, " The Committee, who will ap-

point a Postmaster.

New- York, N. Y. Mr. John Holt*

Newark, New-Jersev, Mr. William Camp.

Eliza'town, " Mr. De Hart.

Woodbridge, " Capt. Nathaniel Heard.

Brunswick, " John Dennis, Esq.

Princeton, " Mr. Baldwin.

Trenton, " The Committee.

Bristol, Penn. Mr. Charles Besconer.

Philadelphia " Mr. William Bradford.

Wilmington, Del. Mr. Hcmpfeld.

* A Constitutional Post-Office is now kept at J. Holt's Printing Office
in Water Street, near the Coffee-House, New-York, where Letters are
received in, and carefully despatched by riders who may be depended
upon for the faithful performance of duty, and execution of the most
important trusts that business may require, as none but men of pro-
perty and approved characters, will bo employed.

The Posts for Philadelphia and the Southwestern Colonies set out
about eight o'clock every Monday and Thursday morning, proceed that
day, through the Towns of Newark, Elizabethtown, Rahway, Wood-
bridge, Bonumtown, Piscataway, and Brunswick, to Princeton, where
they meet and exchange mails with the Posts from Philadelphia, who
piss through Frankfort, Bristol, Trenton, and Maidenhead. These
Posts the next day (Tuesday) return with the mails to the above office
in New-York, and to Mr. Bradford's, at the Coffee-House in Philadel.
phia ; from whence other Posts set out for the Westward and East-
ward at the usual times. Those from New-York for the Eastward, set
out about nine o'clock on Monday, about noon on Thursday, and return
to New-York with the Eastern mails, on Wednesdays and Saturdays.

The rates of postage for the present, are the same that they used to
be under the unconstitutional Post-Office, and accounts are carefully
kept of all the moneys received for Letters, as well as expended on
riders, &.c. That where rates and rules are affixed, and offices regularly
established throughout the British Colonies, by each Provincial and by
the Continental Congress, what shall be done before that time may be
taken into the account, and properly adjusted.

The subscriber having at all times acted consistently, and to the
utmost of his power in support of the English Constitution and the
rights and liberties of his countrymen, the inhabitants of the British
American Colonies, especially as a printer, regardless of his own personal
safety or private advantage; and having always, both by speech and
publications from his press, openly, fully, and plainly denied the right
of the British Parliament to tax, or make laws to bind Americans, in any
case whatsoever, without their own free consent ; and done his utmost
to stimulate his countrymen, with whom he is determined to stand or
fall, to assert and defend their rights against the encroachments and
unjust claims of Great Britain and every other power; and as he has,
by this conduct, incurred the displeasure of many men in power, and
boeu a very great sufferer (the greatest, ho believes, in this Country)
by the stoppage and obstruction given to the circulation of his news-
papers by the Post-Office, which has long been an engine in the hand
of the British Ministry to promote their schemes of enslaving the
Colonies and destroying the English Constitution, (the very institution
and existence of this office afforded the Ministry one of the most plau-
sible arguments in favour of their pretended right to tax the Colonies,
and was a precedent of their admission of that right, and of the exercise
of it ;) and as the Colonies are at length roused to defend their rights,
and in particular to wrest the Post-Office from the tyrannical hands
which have long held it, and put it on a constitutional footing ; and
many gentlemen among the most hearty and able friends to America,
in this and the neighbouring Colonies, both in and out of the Conti-
nental Congress, having encouraged the subscriber to hope that they
think him a proper person to hold the office of Postmaster in this Col-
ony, with the business of which he is well acquainted, and will favour
his application for the same : He humbly requests the favour, concur-
rence, and assistance of the honourable Convention of Deputies for
this Colony, in his appointment to the said office, the duties of which
it will be his constant care to discharge with faithfulness, and to gone,
ral satisfaction, ever grateful for favours conferred, and studious to
deserve them. John Holt.

Baltimore, Maryland,
Annapolis, "

Georgetown on ) ts

the Potomack, 5
Alexandria, Virginia,
Dumfries, "

Fred'ksburgh, "
Norfolk, "

Will'msburgh, "

Mr. Goddard's Ofliee.
Mr. Samuel H. Howard.

Mr. Thomas Richardson.

Mr. James Hendricks.
Mr. Richard Graham.
Capt. George Weedon.
William Davies, Esq.
The Committee, who will
point a Postmaster.

post riders.

From Falmouth to Portsmouth, Mr

From Portsmouth to Cambridge, Mr. Trobb.

From Cambridge to Hartford, Messrs. Adams and
Hyde.

From Hartford to New- York, Messsrs. Peet and
Hurd.

From New-York to Philadelphia, Mr. James Van
Brocket.

From Cambridge to Providence, Newport and New-
London, Messrs. Peter and Benjamin Mumford.

From New-London to New-York, lower road, Messrs.
Peet and Hurd.

From Cambridge to Providence, Norwich and New-
London, Mr. Nathaniel Bushell.

TO THE PRESIDENT OF THE MASSACHUSETTS CONGRESS.

Boston, May 8, 1775.

Honoured Sir : The printed paper which I now send
you, was brought to me by a kind neighbour who picked it
up in the street, and as it is mine by the gift of the finder
of it, I have thought it my duty to send it unto you, that so,
as the Province is interested in it, it may by you be commu-
nicated to the Provincial Assembly over which you preside.

This "Circumstantial Account," as it is called, of the late
engagement, has been so privately printed that some of their
own officers have not the knowledge of it ; and as this is
the account which is most probably sent home, it is here
currently reported that above thirty depositions upon oath,
to the truth of it, have been sent along with it.

You will see, by this account, that the people of our
Province are represented as the blamable causes of all that
occurred. They attacked ; they fired first ; they committed
cruelties. The British Soldiers only did their duty ; and
having done it, they did not properly retreat, but marched
back to Charlestown.

1 wish you, sir, and the Provincial Congress, the happiest
direction from above in all your counsels and managements
for the publick weal, and prosperity and the blessing of the
Lord of Hosts in the prosecution of them; and am, with
my most cordial respects to yourself and all our Delegates
with you, your faithful friend and most obedient servant,

Samuel Mather.

SELECTMEN OF WORCESTER TO THE MASSACHUSETTS
CONGRESS.
Worcester, Massachusetts, May 8, 1775.

The Committee appointed by the inhabitants of the
Town to take into their consideration what is requisite to be
done with a number of people who have shown themselves
disaffected to their Country, do report :

That in their humble opinion, as William Cambell has
broke through his engagements with the fathers of the
people, and presumed to go out of the Town and Prov-
ince before the Resolve of the Provincial Congress was
known, in order to injure the good people of this place,
and has been, and by his conduct still appears to be, an
inveterate enemy to the rights and privileges of this Coun-
try, notwithstanding his declarations to the contrary, he
should be sent to Watertown or Cambridge, to be dealt
with as the honourable Congress or the Commander-in-
Chief shall think necessary, it being judged highly improper
that he should tarry any longer in this Town.

And whereas Mr. Samuel Paine, of Worcester, has been
found guilty of propagating a report, viz : " that the goods,
&c, taken out of the dwelling house of Ebenezer Bradish,
of Menotomy, was not taken by the Regular Troops, but
by our people ; and furthermore, that our Troops quartered

539

CORRESPONDENCE, PROCEEDINGS, &c, MAY, 1775.

540

in College were lousy and deserted by hundreds ;" the in-
habitants of the Town of Worcester assembled,

Resolve, That said Paine be sent to Watertown or Cam-
bridge with William Cambell, under the care of Captains
Jonas Hubbard and Edward Craft, to be dealt with as the
honourable Congress or Commander-in-Chief shall, upon
examination, think proper. Joshua Bicelow,

Per order Selectmen of Worcester.

To the Honourable Provincial Congress in Watertoxcn, or
Commander-in-Chief at Cambridge.

Worcester, Massachusetts, May 9, 1775.
I, Gardner Chandler, of lawful age, do testify and say,
that on the sixth instant, being in my garden, Samuel Paine
came to me, (being the first time 1 had seen him since he
came from Cambridge.) I asked him what news. He told
me none but what we had here. I then asked him how
matters were at Mr. Bradish's house ; he said that the
Hampshire Soldiers had got possession of it, and of all that
was in it. 1 then mentioned the things that were lost the
first day ; he said they were not taken by the Regulars,
but by our people. I asked him if the Soldiers did not
come off; he said he heard they did in great numbers ; and
that he was told that the men were so close stowed in the
Colleges that they were lousy.

Gardner Chandler.

Worcester, ss., May 9, 1775:

The within named Gardner Chandler, after due caution,
made oath to the truth of the within written affidavit taken
before me. Robert Goddard,

Justice of the Peace.

SPOTTSYLVANIA COUNTY (VIRGINIA) COMMITTEE.

At a Committee for the County of Spottsylvania , held
at the Town-House in Fredericksburgh , on Tuesday the
ninth of May, 1775: Present twenty-six members:
Fielding Lewis, Esq., in the Chair.

The Committee having before them a copy of the pro-
ceedings of Captain Patrick Henry, and other gentlemen,
officers and volunteers under his command, concerning the
Powder taken from the County Magazine, cordially approve
of the same, and unanimously vote them their thanks for
their prudent, firm, and spirited conduct on that occasion.

Resolved unanimously, That the easy acquisition of the
Powder from the County Magazine in the City of Williams-
burgh, by order of his Excellency the Governour, and the
convenient situation of that City with respect to the Navy,
render it unsafe to continue the publick Treasury at that
place, and that it is the opinion of this Committee that the
same ought to be removed to a place of greater safety.

Resolved, That Mr. Chairman, Charles Dick, James
Mercer, Charles Mortimer, and George Thornton, gentle-
men, do write to the Treasurer, requesting him to call a
Convention of the Delegates for this Colony as soon as
possible. Alexander Dick, Clerk.

ORANGE COUNTY (VIRGINIA) COMMITTEE.

May 9, 1775.
The Committee for Orange County met on Tuesday
the ninth of May. Taking into their consideration the re-
moval of the Powder from the publick Magazine, and the
compensation obtained by the Independent Company of
Hanover; and observing also that the receipt given by
Captain Patrick Henry to his Majesty's Receiver-General
refers the final disposal of the Money to the next Colony
Convention, came to the following Resolutions :

1. That the Governour's removal of the Powder lodged
in the Magazine, and set apart for the defence of the Coun-
try, was fraudulent, unnecessary, and extremely provoking
to the people of this Colony.

2. That the resentment shewn by the Hanover Volun-
teers, and the reprisal they have made on the King's pro-
perty, highly merit the approbation of the publick, and the
thanks of this Committee.

3. That if any attempt should be made, at the ensuing
Convention, to have the Money returned to His Majesty's
Receiver-General, our Delegates be, and they are hereby

instructed, to exert all their influence in opposing such at-
tempt, and in having the Money laid out in Gunpowder for
the use of the Colony.

4. That the following Address be presented to Captain
Patrick Henry, and the gentlemen independents of Han-
over :

" Gentlemen : We, the Committee for the County of
Orange, having been fully informed of your seasonable and
spirited proceedings in procuring a compensation for the
Powder fraudulently taken from the County Magazine by
command of Lord Dunmore, and which it evidently appears
his Lordship, notwithstanding his assurances, had no inten-
tion to restore, entreat you to accept their cordial thanks for
this testimony of your zeal for the honour and interest of
your Country. We take this occasion also to give it as our
opinion, that the blow struck in the Massachusetts Govern-
ment is a hostile attack on this and every other Colony,
and a sufficient warrant to use violence and reprisal, in all
cases where it may be expedient for our security and
welfare." James Madison, Chairman.

James Taylor, Thomas Barbour,

Zachariah Burnley, Rowland Thomas,
James Madison, Jr., William Moore,
James Walker, Lawrence Taliaferro,

Henry Scott, Thomas Bill.

HANOVER COUNTY (VIRGINIA) COMMITTEE.

At a meeting appointed and held for Hanover County,
at the Court-House, on Tuesday, the 9th of May, 1775 :
Present : John Syme, Samuel Overton, William Cranch,
Meriwether Skelton, Richard Morris, Benjamin Ander-
son, John Pendleton, John Robinson, Nelson Berkeley,
and George Dabney, Junior.

Agreeable to a Resolution of the Committee held at
Newcastle, the 2d instant, setting forth that they being
fully informed of the violent hostilities committed by the
King's Troops in America, and of the danger arising to
the Colony by the loss of the publick Powder, and of the
conduct of the Governour, which threatens altogether ca-
lamities of the greatest magnitude and most fearful con-
sequences to this Colony ; and therefore recommending
reprisals to be made upon the King's property, sufficient to
replace the Gunpowder taken out of the Magazine : It
appears to this Committee that the Volunteers who march-
ed from Newcastle to obtain satisfaction for the Gunpow-
der, by reprisal or otherwise, proceeded on that business as
follows, to wit :

That an Officer, with sixteen men, was detached to seize
the King's Receiver-General, with orders to detain him ;
and this, it was supposed, might be done without impeding
the progress of the main body. The said Receiver-Gen-
eral not being apprehended, owing to his absence from
home, the said detachment, according to orders, proceeded
to join the main body on its march to Williamsburgh, and
the junction happened on the 3d instant, at Doncastle's
Ordinary, about sunset. A little after sunrise next morn-
ing, the Commanding Officer being assured that proper
satisfaction, in money, should be instantly made, the Vol-
unteers halted, and the proposal being considered by them,
was judged satisfactory as to that point ; and the following
Receipt was given, to wit:

" Doncastle's Ordinary, New-Kent, May 4, 1775.

" Received from the Honourable Richard Corbin, Esq.,
His Majesty's Receiver-General, £330, as a compensation
for the Gunpowder lately taken out of the publick Magazine
by the Governour's order ; which money I promise to
convey to the Virginia Delegates at the General Congress,
to be under their direction laid out in Gunpowder for the
Colony's use, and to be stored as they shall direct, until
the next Colony Convention, or General Assembly, unless
it shall be necessary, in the mean time, to use the same in
defence of this Colony. It is agreed, that in case the next
Convention shall determine that any part of the said money
ought to be returned to His Majesty's Receiver-General,
that the same shall be done accordingly.

" Patrick Henry, Junior."

It was then considered, that as a General Congress would
meet in a few days ; and probably a Colony Convention
would shortly assemble, and that the reprisal now made

541

CORRESPONDENCE, PROCEEDINGS, &c, MAY, 1775.

542

would amply replace the Powder, with the charges of trans-
portation, the Commanding Officer wrote the following
Letter, and sent it by express :

May 4, 1775.

Sir : The affair of the Powder is now settled, so as to
produce satisfaction to me, and I earnestly wish to the Col-
ony in general. The people here have it in charge from
the Hanover Committee, to tender their services to you
as a publick officer, for the purpose of escorting the pub-
lick Treasury to any place in this Colony, where the
money would be judged more safe than in the City of
Williamsburg h. The reprisal now made by the Hanover
Volunteers, though accomplished in a manner least liable
to the imputation of violent extremity, may possibly be the
cause of future injury to the Treasury. If, therefore, you
apprehend the least danger, a sufficient guard is at your
service. I beg the return of the bearer may be instant,
because the men wish to know their destination.

With great regard, I am, Sir, your most humble servant,
Patrick Henry, Junior.
To Robert Carter Nicholas, Esq., Treasurer.

To which an answer was received from the said Mr.
Nicholas, importing that he had no apprehension of the
necessity or propriety of the proffered service. For which
reasons, and understanding moreover, from others, that the
private citizens of Williamsburgh were in a great measure
quieted from their late apprehensions for their persons and
property, the Volunteers judged it best to return home,
and did so accordingly, in order to wait the further direc-
tions of the General Congress, or Colony Convention.*

It appears also to this Committee, that before and on
the march, strict orders were repeatedly given to the Vol-
unteers to avoid all violence, injury, and insult, towards the
persons and property of every individual ; and that in exe-
cuting the plan of reprisal on the persons of the King's
servants, and his property, bloodshed should be avoided, if
possible ; and that there is the strongest reason that the
foregoing orders respecting private persons and property,
were strictly observed.

Resolved, That this Committee do approve of the pro-
ceedings of the Officers and Soldiers of the Volunteer
Company, and do return them their sincere thanks for their
services on the late expedition ; and also that the thanks of
this Committee be given to the many Volunteers of the
different Counties, who joined and were marching, and
ready to co-operate with the Volunteer Company of this
County.

Ordered, That the Clerk do transmit a copy of these
proceedings to the Printers, and desire that they will be
pleased to publish the same in their Gazettes as soon as
possible. By order of the Committee :

Bartlett Anderson, Clerk.

EXTRACT OF A LETTER FROM A GENTLEMAN IN BUCKS
COUNTY, TO HIS FRIEND IN PHILADELPHIA^ DATED
MAY 9, 1775.

Our Committee met yesterday. From their Resolves,
(a copy of which I enclose you,) you will find they have
adopted your plan, and recommend our associating into
companies to learn the military exercise of arms. Some
Townships have already begun, and many others, animated
with the same zeal for the welfare of their Country, will,
I trust, readily fall in with the plan, a knowledge of which,
we have great reason to fear we shall soon be called on to
give a proof of. The unanimity, prudence, spirit, and firm-
ness, which appeared in the deliberations of yesterday, do
honour to Bucks County, and will, I hope, in some measure,
wipe off those aspersions we too deservedly lay under.

A large number of the inhabitants being assembled, the

* Hanover, May 12, 1775.— Yesterday, Patrick Henry, one of the
Delegates for this Colony, escorted by a number of respectable young
gentlemen, Volunteers from this and King William and Caroline Coun-
ties, set out to attend the General Congress. They proceeded with him
as far as Mrs. Hooe's Ferry, on the Potomack, by whom they were most
kindly and hospitably entertained ; and also provided with boats and
hands to cross the river. And after partaking of this lady's benefi.
cence, the bulk of the Company took their leave of Mr. Henry, salu.
ting him with two platoons and repeated huzzas. A guard accompa-
nied that worthy gentleman to the Maryland side, who saw him safely
landed ; and committing him to the gracious and wise Disposer of all
human events, to guide and protect him whilst contending for a resti-
tution of our dearest rights and liberties, they wished him a safe jour-
ney, and happy return to his family and friends.

Resolves of the day were made publick, who testified their
highest approbation of the conduct of the Committee, and
unanimously voted them the thanks of the County.

A disciple of those species of creatures called Tories,
being formally introduced to a tar barrel, of which he was
repeatedly pressed to smell, thought it prudent to take leave
abruptly, lest a more intimate acquaintance with it should
take place.

BUCKS COUNTY (PENNSYLVANIA) COMMITTEE.

At a meeting of the Committee of the County of Bucks,
held at the house of Richard Leedom, May 8, 1775:

Resolved unanimously, That we do heartily approve of
the Resolves of the late Provincial Convention, held at
Philadelphia, the 23d day of January last, and do earn-
estly recommend it to the observation of the inhabitants of
this County.

Resolved unanimously, That notwithstanding the disap-
probation we have hitherto shown to the prosecution of any
violent measures of opposition, arising from the hopes and
expectations that the humanity, justice, and magnanimity
of the British Nation would not fail of affording us relief;
being now convinced that all our most dutiful applications
have hitherto been fruitless and vain ; and that attempts are
now making to carry the oppressive Acts of Parliament into
execution by military force, we do therefore earnestly re-
commend to the people of this County to form themselves
into Associations in their respective Townships, to improve
themselves in the military art, that they may be rendered
capable of affording their Country that aid which its par-
ticular necessities may at any time require.

Joseph Hart, John Kidd, Joseph Kirkbride, James
Wallace, and Henry Wynkoop. or any three of them, are
appointed as Delegates to meet in Provincial Convention,
if any should be found necessary.

The Committee request all persons who have taken sub-
scriptions for the relief of the poor of Boston, as soon as
possible to collect and pay the same into the hands of the
Treasurer, Henry Wynkoop, that it may be speedily ap-
plied towards the benevolent purpose for which it was
intended; and at the same time, to give those who have
not subscribed an opportunity to contribute also.

By order of the Committee:

Henry Wynkoop, Clerk pro tern.

TO THE PHILADELPHIA COMMITTEE.

Bedford, May 9, 1775.
Gentlemen : Not long since we were favoured with
your letter of the 18th ultimo, enclosing the melancholy

news of a number of Troops being ordered for America ; in
consequence of which we advertised a meeting of the Coun-
ty Committee, when the following Resolves were unani-
mously entered into : ■

At a meeting of the General Committee of the County
of Bedford, held at Bedford, the 9th day of May, 1775, in
pursuance of a notice for that purpose from the Committee
of Correspondence for the said County :

George Woods, Esquire, Chairman.

Resolved unanimously, That this County will imme-
diately form themselves into Military Associations, and pre-
pare themselves, in order to defend their lives, liberties, and
properties, from any illegal attempts made against them.

Resolved unanimously, That each Township in this
County shall be immediately notified to assemble them-
selves at a certain day and place most convenient for that
purpose, and then and there, by ballot or otherwise, choose
Officers in their respective Townships.

Resolved unanimously, That the said Officers, when
chosen, shall make out a Roll, and each man shall subscribe
his name in said Roll; and that the Captain shall imme-
diately transmit a copy thereof to the Committee of Cor-
respondence at Bedford.

Resolved unanimously, That the Committee of this
County shall purchase all the Powder and Lead in any
store that may he had within the said County, and have the
same put up in some safe Magazine in the Town of Bed-
ford, for tiie use of the said Soldiers; and that each Com-
pany shall, by subscription, make up a proportionable part

543

CORRESPONDENCE, PROCEEDINGS, fcc, MAY, 1775.

544

of the same ; which Ammunition shall not be distributed
Without the orders of the Committee of Correspondence of
the said County, or until it shall be thought necessary by
this Committee, or a majority of them.

Resolved unanimously, That each Company in this
County shall use their utmost endeavours to purchase or
provide all the Ammunition they can, so that no person in
the said Company shall have less than one pound of Pow-
der, and Lead in proportion.

Resolved unanimously, That as soon as the said Com-
panies are formed, they and each of them shall be sub-
ject to military regulations and discipline, in the same
manner as any other of His Majesty's Troops are, (corpo-
real punishment only excepted.)

Resolved unanimously, That in case any person or per-
sons in this County shall refuse to subscribe himself in a
roll of some Company in the said County, in order to de-
fend the cause of liberty now contending for, or by any
ways or means whatever discourage or disunite the said
Associations, that then he or they so offending shall be im-
mediately reported by some of the officers of their respec-
tive Townships, to the Committee of Correspondence at
Bedford, in order that such steps may be taken as by the
said Committee may be thought most prudent ; and that,
in the mean time, no person or persons within the said
County shall, directly or indirectly, have any dealing or
commerce, by either buying or selling, borrowing, or lend-
ing to or with any of the said offenders.

Resolved unanimously, That all persons within this
County that are not at present provided with Guns, Swords,
or Tomahawks, in case of ability shall provide for them-
selves; and in case of inability, that the Captain of each
Company shall immediately transmit their names, or their
number, to the Committee of Correspondence at Bedford,
that proper measures may be taken in order to provide for
them.

Resolved unanimously, That each Township shall meet
and choose their Officers, and make return agreeable to
the above Resolves, within the space-often days from this
date. By order of the Committee of Correspondence:

David Espy, Clerk.

EXTRACT OF A LETTER FROM ULSTER COUNT?, NEW-YORK,
DATED MAY 9, 1775.

A great revolution in political measures has taken place
in this County since we received a copy of the Association
entered into by your City, with which many of us have
ever been desirous to harmonize, especially in such pro-
ceedings as were conformable to the general sense of your
inhabitants. On this principle, as well as from a full con-
viction of preventing the anarchy and confusion which at-
tend a dissolution of the powers of Government, and of
uniting with our fellow-subjects in adopting some general
plan for obtaining a redress of grievances, on constitutional
principles, forwarding the wished-for reconciliation between
Great Britain and America, and preserving peace and
good order, the safety of individuals and private property ;
I say, concurring with you unanimously, so far as 1 have
heard, in these good purposes, the inhabitants of several
Precincts met yesterday, and cheerfully agreed to bury in
oblivion all past differences that had happened from dis-
cordant sentiments respecting the mode proper to be pur-
sued for obtaining a redress of those grievances we have all
so loudly complained of, and heartily to join with you in
the measures you had taken for restoring internal harmony,
peace, and concord, to our convulsed Country, on the brink
of being overwhelmed with every species of the most out-
rageous violence, anarchy, and confusion.

Never were meetings so numerous, general, calm, dispas-
sionate, orderly, or unanimous. In effecting these salutary
dispositions, Mr. Mason, Pastor of the Seceders' Congrega-
tion in New-York, has great merit, for his repeated exhorta-
tions to the people of his sect here, (to whom he preached at
this juncture,) zealously inculcating the doctrines of peace,
order, and benevolence, reprehending all acts of violence,
outrage, and licentiousness, and exerting all his other influ-
ences for enforcing those objects on this occasion. I hope
the good seed he has sown will take firm root, produce a
British constitutional plant, and long continue to bear fruit
worthy of the husbandman that scattered it. May it never

be blasted by the noxious shade of a superincumbent tree,
or the poisonous exhalations of surrounding shrubs ; buj
thrive and flourish, and spread a benign farina, impregnating
every variety of its species with its virtues, far and near.

It is the ardent wish of my heart, that boih the ensuing
Continental and Provincial Congress of this Colony, under
the influences of a genuine spirit of patriotism and love for
this Country, may seriously and calmly consider of and
recommend such measures only as will tend to obtain for
us a redress of our grievances on constitutional principles ;
lay a foundation for our speedily having confirmed to us,
in the most extensive latitude our local circumstances will
admit of, the pure and unmutilated constitutional rights and
privileges of free Englishmen, as established at the glorious
and happy Revolution, on a basis solid and permanent ; and
whilst they are firmly actuated by these views and endea-
vours, 1 hope they may glow with every sentiment of affec-
tion, veneration, and regard for their Parent State, and give
every testimony of it, by pursuing and recommending, with
all their power, the most healing and conciliatory measures.
In these sentiments I am happy in being joined by many,
and most of the serious, considerate, sensible freeholders in
this County. God send us a good deliverance.

JOEL CLARK TO GOVERNOUR TRUMBULL.

Farmington, May 9, 1775.

May it please your Honour: I have been too long
a soldier to feel my breast unmoved at the sound of my
neighbours beating to arms. I feel too much for my dis-
tressed and injured Country to see the dangers which
threaten it without wishing to share them with my coun-
trymen ; and 1 partake too much of the spirit of those
ancestors we boast, not to offer my services at this crisis
in any way inconsistent with honour and fidelity to my
Country. I take the freedom to address your Honour as
the Captain-General of this Colony, and tender therefore
my services. I served in the ranks at the age of fifteen,
in the reduction of Louisburg, in '45. I served in every
other station in the last war, until I was appointed to the
command of a Company in the three last years before the
peace ; in all which stations 1 appeal to those in the service
for my conduct. Once 1 received the General's thanks for
my service in a command of four hundred men, in 1760,
and the additional pay of a Captain in the regular service.
Now this don't argue either the want of skill or readiness
in me of doing my duty. When I saw last winter the ap-
pointment of Field Officers by the honourable Assembly,
of the Regiment I belong to, I had thoughts which I sup-
pressed. The gentlemen I have no objection to. They may
make a figure in peace, and they may make a figure in war.
They have never had experience. I now see the danger
to which my Country is reduced ; and my love to that, and
duty to your Honour, demand this offer of my service. I
do not apply for want of bread or business of my own. I
have enough of both, and a property to defend. The pre-
sent union of hearts and hands of all ranks of people in the
cause, renders it needless for me to take up your Honour's
time. When dangers were represented in the alarm in
September last, I raised a Company at some expense of my
own, and was in readiness to march at the confirmation of
the news.. I know not whether it is in your Honour's
power to give me a proper appointment in the service, but
I shall always be satisfied in having done my duty in this
address to your Honour, and am, with much respect, your
Honours most obedient and humble servant,

Joel Clark.

Jonathan Trumbull, Esq., Captain-General of the Forces
in the Colony of Connecticut.

P. S. If your Honour will condescend to inquire of
Generals Wooster, Spencer, Putnam, and Colonels Ward,
fVadsworth, Waterbury, Champion, &tc, for my charac-
ter, &c, I shall esteem it as a favour : also Mr. Root, a
Representative.

THOMAS HOWELL TO GOVERNOUR TRUMBULL.

New-Haven, May 9, 1775.

Honoured Sir: I have been informed that I had the
honour to be nominated by the honourable General Assem-

545

CORRESPONDENCE, PROCEEDINGS, &c, MAY, 1775.

546

bly as a Commissary to provide for the Troops now raising
in the defence of the Colony. I sincerely thank the As-
sembly for this mark of respect. 1 have the interest of
the Colony, its rights and privileges, at heart, as much, I
believe, as any man. But as there has been for some time
past an unhappy dispute in this Town, and by which we
have, in some measure, been thrown into parties ; and as
one party has made (as I am told) an unfair representation
against me, I think it my duty, when the interest of my
Country is at stake, to sacrifice private interest to the pub-
lick good. Upon that principle, sir, I have to inform you
that I am willing to resign the office of Commissary, and I
conceive it will conduce to the peace of the Town to
have Mr. Jonathan Filch appointed. He may, perhaps,
reconcile all parties, which is the desire of, Sir, your hum-
ble servant, Thomas Howell.

A GENTLEMAN AT P1TTSFIELD, IN BERKSHIRE COUNTY, TO
AN OFFICER IN CAMBRIDGE.

Pittsfield, Massachusetts, May 9, 1775.

In my last 1 wrote to you of the Northern Expedition ;
before this week ends, we are in raised hopes here of hear-
ing that Ticonderoga and Crown Point are in our hands.
Solomo?is, the Indian King of Stockbridge, was lately at
Colonel Eastons of this Town, and said there that the
Mohawks had not only given liberty to the Stockbridge
Indians to join us, but had sent them a belt, denoting that
they would hold five hundred men in readiness to join us
immediately on the first notice ; and that the said Solomons
holds an Indian post in actual readiness to run with the
news as soon as they shall be wanted. Those Indians
would be of great service to you should the King's Troops
march out of Boston, as some think they undoubtedly will
upon the arrival of their recruits, and give us battle. Our
Militia this way, Sir, are vigorously preparing for actual
readiness Adjacent Towns and this Town are buying arms
and ammunition. There is a plenty of arms to be sold at
Town of Sheffield, on Tuesday, the ninth day of May, Albany as yet ; but we hear, by order of the Mayor, &c,

SHEFFIELD (MASSACHUSETTS) COMMITTEE.

At a meeting of the Committee of Observation for the

1775

Complaint being made to this Committee that John
ft'estover, Job Westover, and Noah Westover, had, in vari-
ous instances, contravened the doings and Resolutions of
the General and Provincial Congresses ; and that the said
John, Job, and Noah, were enemies of American liberty ;
it was thereupon ordered, that the Clerk cause the said
John, Job, and Noah, to be notified to attend before this
Committee on Friday next, at one o'clock, afternoon, at
the house of Mr. Daniel Dewey, in this Town, to answer
to the aforementioned complaint.

Voted, To adjourn this meeting till Friday next at one

o'clock in the afternoon, then to meet at the house of Mr.

Daniel Dewey.

Friday, May 12, 1775.

The Committee met according to adjournment.
John Westover and Job Westover appeared before the
Committee; Noah Westover not being to be found, has
not been notified. The Committee took into considera-
tion the complaint against the said John and Job; and
Captain Daniel Lawrence, his wife, Messrs. Jonathan
Westover and Joseph Kingman, being adduced as wit-
nesses, it appeared from their evidence (among many other
matters) that the said John hath affirmed that the late Con-
tinental Congress, in their doings, were guilty of rebellion
against the King ; and that the said Job hath affirmed that
the Parliament of Great Britain had a right to tax the
Americans ; and that each of them had said many things
disrespectful of the said Congress, and the Provincial Con-
gresses. The following question being, during the course
of the examination, put to the said John and Job, viz:
" If an engagement should unfortunately happen between
the British and American Armies, which they would choose
should prevail ?" the said John answered, that the question
was so difficult he could not give a direct answer. The said
Job, in answer to said question, said that he supposed the
consequences of a victory on the side of the American
Army would be more prejudicial to this Country than the
contrary. During the time the several matters aforesaid
were under the consideration of the Committee, and before
any resolution was had thereon, the said John voluntarily
and solemnly engaged, that at no time hereafter will he do
any thing detrimental to the cause now contended for by
this Country ; and that so far as he understands the true
intent and meaning of the doings of the Continental and
Provincial Congresses, he will not violate the same in any
particular.

The following motion was then made and seconded,
Whether the foregoing declaration of the said John is satis-
factory to this Committee ? It passed in the affirmative.

The following motion was then made and seconded,
Whether the said Job is an enemy of American liberty ? It
passed in the affirmative unanimously. Therefore,

Resolved, unanimously, That the said Job Westover is
an enemy of American liberty, and that it is the duty of
all those who wish well to the cause of freedom, from hence-
forth to break off all dealings with the said Job.

Voted, That the Clerk do procure the foregoing pro-
ceedings with regard to said John and Job Westover, to be
inserted in the American Oracle of Liberty.

Fourth Series. — Vol. ii. 35

no powder is at present to be sold there. The spirit of
liberty runs high there, as you have doubtless heard by
their post to our Head Quarters. 1 have exerted myself
to disseminate the same spirit in Ki?ig's District, which has
of late taken surprising effect. The poor Tories of Kinder-
hook are mortified and grieved, and are wheeling about,
and begin to take the quick step. New-York Government
begins to be alive in the glorious cause, and to act with
great vigour.

1 fervently pray, Sir, that our Council of War may be
inspired with wisdom from above, to direct the warlike
enterprise with prudence, discretion, and vigour. O ! may
your councils and deliberations be under the guidance and
blessing of Heaven ! Since I began to write, an intelli-
gent person, who left Ticonderoga, Saturday before last,
informs me, that having went through there and Crown
Point about three weeks ago, all were secure : but on his
return, he found they were alarmed with our expedition,
and would not admit him into the Fort ; that there were
•twelve soldiers at Crown Point, and he judged near two
hundred at Ticonderoga ; that those Forts were out of re-
pair, and much in ruins ; that it was his opinion our men
would undoubtedly be able to take them ; and that he met
our men last Thursday, who were well furnished with
cattle, and wagons laden with provisions, and in good spirits,
who he supposed would arrive there last Sabbath day, and
he doubted not but this week they would be in possession
of those Forts. He informed them where they might ob-
tain a plenty of ball ; and there are cannon enough at
Crown Point, which they cannot secure from us. That he
saw the Old Sow, brought from Cape Breton, and a number
of good brass cannon, at Ticonderoga. Should this expe-
dition succeed, and should the Council of War send up
their orders for the people this way to transport by land
twenty or thirty of the best of the cannon to Head Quar-
ters, I doubt not but the people in this country would do
it with all expedition. We could easily collect a thousand
yoke of cattle for the business.

COMMITTEE OF CORRESPONDENCE OF LYNN TO THE MAS-
SACHUSETTS COMMITTEE OF SAFETY.

Lynn, May 10, 1775.

Gentlemen : The bearer, Captain Barker, will bring
before your Honour Mr. Josiah Martin, as a person whom
we have considered to have acted as an enemy to the Prov-
ince, and have sent the evidences that appeared against
him. John Mansfield, Chairman.

Evidences names : Harthorn Bamsdell, John Bancroft,
William French, James Bancroft.

JOSIAH MARTIN TO THE COMMITTEE OF SAFETY.

Cambridge, May 11, 1775.

Gentlemen of the Committee of Safety :

I was sent from Lynn by a guard of soldiers to be ex-
amined, and am sorry that myself or any other faithful and
loyal subject to his Country should be treated as I am.
Methinks it would give a check to the spirit of an Alex-
ander. Humanity is the least we may expect of one
another. Your true and loyal Whig, Josiah Martin.

547

CORRESPONDENCE, PROCEEDINGS, fee., MAY, 1775.

548

PETITION FROM COIIASSET.

Cahim i, M»y 9, 1775.
The Selectmen of the District o/*Cohasset humbly shew:
That to their great satisfaction they find that the idea of
Counties, Towns, and Districts, arc in a great measure lost
in a general conference for the safety of the whole, and that
this Committee, on whom are the e\esof the Government,
in various instances granted protection to such parts of the
sea-coasts as were most exposed. Your Petitioners there-
fore beg leave to say, that they are in a defenceless state,
and that they are exposed to be ravaged by the crews of
every ship or vessel whose inclination leads them to plunder ;
that they have kept up a military watch from the twentieth
of April last to this time, and which is absolutely necessary
to be continued for the safety not only of said District, and
the Towns adjoining, but of the whole. They therefore
pray that they may have liberty to raise, on the same foot-
ing that men are raising in our neighbourhood, and have a
Company, and that they may do duty in this place until
the safety of the whole shall require their removal.
And, as in duty bound, shall pray.

Isaac Lincoln. ~) 0 7 . ,

Abel Kent, ( Selectmen of

rp f \ Lohasset.

1 HOMAS LiATHROP, )

EXTRACT OF A LETTER FROM LONDON, TO A GENTLEMAN
IN PHILADELPHIA, DATED MAY 10, 1775.

Before you receive this you will probably have determined
the fate of both parts of the British Empire in that vener-
able assembly, the Continental Congress. We have no
fears for you, but the infatuation of the Ministry here gives
us as much to apprehend as ever. It is still the full persua-
sion of all the courtiers (and I almost think of the greatest
part of the Nation) that notwithstanding all your seeming
firmness and hostile preparations, you will submit to any
thing rather than contend with us. A very short time will
now determine that matter, for there is no appearance of
any relaxation here. We wait for the great event with the
most anxious and distressing impatience.

ADDRESS OF THE VOLUNTEER COMPANY OF WILLIAMS-
BURGH, VIRGINIA.

At a meeting of the Volunteer Company of the City
of Williamsburgh, on the tenth day of May, 1775, the
following Address was unanimously agreed to, and ordered
to be published. John Brown, Clerk.

To the Gentlemen, Freeholders, and Volunteers who so
generously offered their assistance to the City of Wil-
liamsburgh, on a late alarming occasion:
Gentlemen: A quick sensibility to insults offered our
Country, and a determined resolution to risk every thing
in support of its honour and interest, are ruling motives in
the breast of every patriot. To these we ascribe your late
movement towards the Metropolis, where certain incidents,
sufficiently alarming at this juncture, had attracted the at-
tention of all our worthy countrymen. We are happy in
being able to convince you, that there is at present no
necessity for their vigorous interposition ; but the zealous
alacrity with which you proffered your assistance, as it
shows a sincere devotion to the publick good, must be
highly pleasing to your fellow-countrymen, and demands
our warmsst thanks and acknowledgments.

extract of a letter to a gentleman IN PHILADEL-
PHIA, DATED NEW-YORK, MAY 10, 1775.

When the news of the engagement between the Provin-
cials and the Regulars arrived here, Doctor Cooper, with
several others, fled on board the Man-of-War, and have
since sailed for Europe, so that the City is almost cleared
of Tories, and the few which remain are ashamed and
afraid. A soldier who had deserted from the Welsh Fusi-
leers was among the forces which came to assist us from
New-England ; some of the soldiers in the barracks saw
him, and told the officers. He was taken and confined ;
but when his New-England Captain heard of it, he went
to the barracks, called for the commanding officer, and do-
manded his man. The officer told him he was a deserter ;

the Captain replied he did not care, he would have him,
as he had promised to protect him. An officer who was
standing by, said, if he was the commanding officer he
would take him prisoner. The Captain replied, he might,
but he would be the dearest prisoner he ever had, and
swore the barracks should be in a flame in one hour if they
attempted such a thing. However, the commanding officer
thought proper to deliver up the man ; and the very next
day two sentinels deserted from the Govemour's door.

TO THE rUBLICK.

Kingston, Ulster County, New.York, May 10, 1775.
When the characters of gentlemen who have acted in a
publick capacity are impeached, (especially those who have
taken upon them the execution of the measures of the last
Continental Congress,) how disagreeable the task may be,
it behooves every one who is a friend to truth, honesty,
and liberty, to consider it as their duty, and incumbent on
them, with all their efforts to support the proceedings of
those gentlemen. This County in general, and Kingston
in particular, have distinguished themselves by a ready
compliance with the Association of the Congress, and some
spirited measures to render them effectual; but as every
flock contains some bad sheep, so the article of Tea has
discovered the infected persons amongst us. The simile
is just, and the cure used for the one, must be applied to
the other, viz: a separation of the clean from the unclean.
This has been done ; the Committee of this Town have,
after many friendly advices and entreaties, which proved
in vain, been led to the disagreeable necessity of publish-
ing Mr. Jacobus Low, merchant of this Town, all which
have not as yet wrought a reformation of his conduct.
He lately published a piece in vindication of his conduct,
the like of which is not to be paralleled ; it not only con-
tains scurrilous and abusive language, but gross false-
hoods.

First, he begins, " Johannes Sleght, Chairman of the
Committee of [/Zs^er County, has published me as an enemy
of my Country, for selling Tea, in which it is set forth, that
all the Merchants and Skippers had signed articles in which
they agreed not to sell Tea." This, he says, " is absolute-
ly false, for there are more who have not signed for the
very reasons. I had, and the Committee knew that they
had not all signed at the time of publishing this piece of
malice."

The Committee are surprised at Mr. Low's ignorance
and stupidity, since he has as well incurred the displea-
sure of the friends of liberty in the City of New-York, as
here, by his non-compliance with his brethren, merchants
in this Town. But it appears that he will endeavour to
heap sin upon sin, to cure a wound by a fresh bruise ; that
is, by committing a crime and leading the guiltless in the
execution thereof.

The Committee still say, that every Merchant and Skip-
per in this Town, who were possessed of East-India Tea
for sale, had signed the said articles before the publication,
which they are ready to prove by the original in their cus-
tody, (Jacobus Low only excepted.) They also deny
that Johannes Sleght was Chairman for the County of
Ulster, (as he says,) but only for the Town of Kingston.
They also deny that any malice was shown unto him ; but
that, on the contrary, he was solicited, advised, and en-
treated to quit selling Tea, as the other merchants had
done, to prevent a publication, which then proved abortive.
As for the assertion of its being known in Kingston that
said Low had offered to sign the Third Article of the As-
sociation, is even contradicted by his own advertisement,
for he still adheres to the consumption of it.

As. for the matters he asserts to have been reported in
and by the Committee, is absolutely false ; here the world
may discover the wickedness of his heart, by endeavouring
to punish others for his own crimes. In short, it is impo-
sing on the publick to answer every part of so base a piece
of wilful and false publication, from a man who was treated
with so much lenity as he was from this Committee.
By order of the Committee :

Johannes Sleght, Chairman.

N. B. Since the publication of Mr. Low, this Committee
has been augmented to the number of seventeen, and have
re-elected Johannes Sleicht Chairman.

549

CORRESPONDENCE, PROCEEDINGS, he, MAY, 1775.

550

TOWN-MEETING, PROVIDENCE, RHODE-ISLAND.

At a Town-Meeting held at Providence, on the tenth
day of May, A. D. 1775, hy adjournment, Nicholas Cooke,
Esquire, Moderator :

Voted, That it be and it is hereby recommended to the
honourable Town Council at their next session to establish
a Watch in this Town of six men each night, agreeable to
law, and to appoint a Master or Warden to set said Watch,
and to have the oversight and direction thereof, for six
months from this time ; and that the said Town Council be
desired to meet to settle said Watch on Friday next ; and
it is recommended to said Council that each person have
the liberty to watch in their turn, or to furnish a person in
his room, and on failure thereof to pay Three Shillings for
each neglect.

Voted, That six persons be appointed to examine into
the state of the inhabitants of this Town, and to make
report of all such that are provided with Small- Arms and
accoutrements agreeable to law, and of all such that are
not provided agreeable to law with Small-Arms, &ic, and
of all persons that in their judgments are not of ability to
supply themselves, saving and excepting all those that are
or may be enlisted.

The following persons are appointed to make the exami-
nation, to wit: Nathaniel Wheaton, Benjamin Thurber,
David Lawrence, Paid Allen, Benoni Pearce, and Bar-
nard Eddy, and that the same be made on Saturday next.

Voted, That this meeting be adjourned to Monday next,
two o'clock, P. M.

GENERAL THOMAS TO THE COMMITTEE OF SAFETY.

Roxbury Camp, May 10, 1775.

Gentlemen : I have just received a letter from the
Committee of Inspection for the Town of Providence, de-
siring me to inform them if the Committee of Safety have
transmitted to their friend in London an account of the
battle at Lexington, and have informed that the Colony
have appointed a Committee of Safety, who has the direc-
tion of the Troops ; therefore letters to this place on that
subject should be directed to said Committee of Safety.
I should be glad to know what answer I may return them.
I am unacquainted with the proceedings of Congress, or the
Committee of Safety, relative to that matter. If you will
be pleased to send me an answer by the first opportunity,
ii will oblige your most obedient and very humble servant,

John Thomas.

To the Committee of Safety in Cambridge.

TOWN-MEETING, BRTSTOL, MASSACHUSETTS.

May 10, 1775.
To the Honourable the Members of the Provincial Con-
gress of the Massachusetts-Bay :

On the second day of May, 1775, at a legal meeting of
the Freeholders and other Inhabitants of the Town of Bris-
tol, the following Articles were agreed to :

First. Whereas we wrote to your Honours last March
a little sketch of our circumstances, and that we would put
ourselves as soon as possible into military order, and then
inform your Honours more particularly of our strength in
regard to arms and ammunition : therefore we would now
inform your Honours that we have endeavoured to put
ourselves into military order and discipline as well as we
were capable. We make out three Companies, each
Company consisting of about sixty training soldiers exclu-
sive of officers, which officers were chosen by vote of
the several Companies in the training field. As to arms,
the most of us have got guns, but we are in very low
circumstances in regard to ammunition — powder espe-
cially ; we have used several means to provide ourselves
with powder, but it has happened to be to no purpose.
Therefore if it is possible that your Honours can point out
to us any way of relief in this particular we shall take it
as a very great favour ; we apprehend that we are very
unsafe to be destitute of ammunition ; as our Town borders
on the sea, we are much exposed to our enemies.

Second. Voted unanimously, That Mr. Thomas Brac-
kett be, and we hereby empower him to be, our agent and
attorney in all matters whatsoever, in our name and stead
to contract for any articles that our said attorney shall

think necessary for this Town : by whom we hope to re-
ceive advices from your Honours how we shall conduct in
all matters. We remain, with earnest prayer to Almighty
God for a blessing upon your Honours' persons, and upon
your Honours' proceedings in behalf of this Province, your
Honours' most dutiful, most obedient, and most humble
servants. By order and in behalf of the Town of Bristol :

Samuel Oates, ~)

Robert Given, > Commit tee- Men.

Thomas Boyd, }

George Rodgers,

Thos. Johnston, '

James Huston,

William Barnes, Town Clerk.

Selectmen of
Bristol.

TIMOTHY PICKERING TO THE COMMITTEE OF SAFETY OF

MASSACHUSETTS.

Salem, May 10, 1775.

Gentlemen : It appearing highly expedient that a Regi-
ment should be formed from Salem and its environs, with
a view to serve the general cause, I took the liberty of
recommending Colonel Mansfield and Captain Hutchinson
Colonel and Lieutenant-Colonel of it. They then appear-
ed to me the most suitable persons that could be found
willing to fill these places, and I am still of the same opin-
ion. I should not give you any further trouble about the
matter, if I did not think Colonel Hutchinson was suffering
unjustly by means of Colonel Herrick; the latter, as Mr.
Hutchinson informs me, declared himself well pleased with
his appointment, and heartily, in appearance, congratulated
him upon it ; and yet, with might and main is now endeavour-
ing to supplant him, and he builds his hopes of succeeding,
it seems, not upon Colonel Hutchinson's inefficiency, nor
upon his own superiour ability and merit, but upon a foun-
dation which a man of honour, I think, would reject with
disdain : Colonel Herrick, truly, has friends in Court ! an
admirable plea for his advancement ; incontestable evidence
of his merit ! I should not have opened my lips to Colonel
Herrick' s disadvantage, had he not, in a manner which
appears to me most ungenerous, endeavoured to supplant
Colonel Hutchinson, and otherwise treated him with great
incivility, to use a gentle word. What I have said, gen-
tlemen, is grounded wholly upon Colonel Hutchinson's
account of the matter ; but from the manners and charac-
ter of the gentleman, I cannot suffer myself to doubt his
veracity. Nevertheless, if I am misinformed, I will readily
ask Colonel Herrick' s pardon. I should not, gentlemen, have
presumed to intrude myself upon you, if Colonel Hutch-
inson himself had had an opportunity of laying the affair
before you ; but as he failed of this, I thought myself
bound in justice to support him, and to express my indig-
nation, and to bear my testimony against the indecent attack
by which a post well deserved, and fairly obtained, was
attempted to be wrested from him. This letter, if it comes
to Colonel Herrick's knowledge, will doubtless offend
him ; but if it be necessary to expose it, I do not wish it
should be concealed. Yet I am desirous of the friendship
of all men ; but in the innocency and integrity of my heart,
I wrote my first letter in favour of Colonel Hutchinson and
Colonel Mansfield; in the same spirit I have written this,
and if a gentleman is offended with me for doing my duty,
I can bear his resentment or reproaches with patience. I
had like to have forgot to add, though it is of importance,
and what, for the good of the common cause, I am bound
to say, that it is probable the Regiment will be much dis-
satisfied if the Lieutenant-Colonel be displaced ; and one
Company, I am informed, have already expressed great
uneasiness about it. I am, gentlemen, your most obedient
servant, Timothy Pickering, Jun.

To the Committee of Safety.

EXTRACT OF A LETTER FROM THE HON. ENOCH FREJEMAN,
ESQ,., TO SAMUEL FREEMAN, WATERTOWN.

Falmouth, May 10, 1775.

We are in confusion ; though Colonel Thompson wrote
us he had laid aside the scheme of coming here to take
the Ship Canceaux, yet he appeared yesterday on the back
of the Neck. 1 cannot help thinking but that it is a very
imprudent action, and fear it will bring on the destruction of

551

CORRESPONDENCE, PROCEEDINGS, &c, MAY, 1775.

552

the Town ; for we can make no defence against a Man-of-
War, and, undoubtedly, in a short time there won't be a
house standing here.

Pray let Congress be informed of this affair, and let us
know whether Thompson -had such orders; and pray the
Congress to give us some direction, for we are in such
confusion nobody seems to be rational.

NEW-KENT COUNTY ( VIRGINIA) COMMITTEE.

At a meeting of the Committee for New-Kent County,
at the Court-House, the 11th day of May, 1775 :

The Committee taking into consideration Lord Dun-
morc's Proclamation, dated the third day of this mouth,
said to be issued with the advice of His Majesty's Coun-
cil, wherein the inhabitants of this Colony are indiscrimi-
nately charged, in general terms, with dissatisfaction to His
Majesty's Government, and a design to effect a change in
the form of it, think it necessary ibr themselves and their
constituents to declare their sentiments. And accordingly,

Resolved unanimously, That unfeigned loyalty to His
Majesty's person and Government, as by law established,
and a due obedience to the laws of our Country, are the
ruling principles of the inhabitants of this County ; and
that the suggestion on which the said Proclamation appears
to be founded, so far as it respects the inhabitants of this
County, is an injurious reflection upon them, and has no
foundation in truth. At the same time we are determined,
for ourselves and posterity, to support and maintain the
rights and privileges of British subjects, which we are en-
titled to, against any tyrannical attempts whatever.

Resolved, That the Resolutions of this Committee, en-
tered into on the third of this month, and the first Resolu-
tion entered into this day, be sent to the Printers to be
published. By order of the Committee:

William Smith, Clerk.

SOMERSET COUNTY (NEW-JERSEY) COMMITTEE.

Pursuant to notice given by the Chairman of the Com-
mittee of Correspondence for the County of Somerset, in
New- Jersey, the Freeholders of the County met at the
Court-House the 11th day of May, 1775 :

Hendrick Fisher, Esq., chosen Chairman,
Frederick Frelinghuysen, Clerk.

1. Resolved, That the several steps taken by the Bri-
tish Ministry to enslave the American Colonies, and espe-
cially the late alarming hostilities commenced by the Troops
under General Gage against the inhabitants of Massachu-
setts-BayK loudly call on the people of this Province to
determine what part they will act in this situation of affairs ;
and that we therefore readily consent to elect Deputies for
a Provincial Congress, to meet at Trenton on Tuesday,
the 23d instant, agreeable to the advice and direction of
the Provincial Committee of Correspondence.

2. Resolved, That the number of Deputies shall be
nine, and that they shall be chosen by ballot.

Adjourned for an hour.

Four o'clock, the people re-assembled.

Hendrick Fisher, John Roy, Esquires, Mr. Frederick
Frelinghuysen, Mr. Enos Kelsey, Peter Schenck, Jonathan
D. Sergeant, Nathaniel Airs, William Patterson, and
Abraham Van Nest, Esquires, are appointed Deputies for
this County, who. or any five of them, are hereby empow-
ered to meet the Deputies from the other Counties in Pro-
vincial Congress, at Trenton, on Tuesday the 23d instant,
and to agree to all such measures as shall be judged neces-
sary for the preservation of our constitutional rights and
privileges.

Resolved, That the Deputies for this County be in-
structed, and they are hereby instructed to join with the
Deputies from the other Counties, in forming such plan for
the Militia of this Province, as to them shall seem proper;
and we heartily agree to arm and support such a number of
men as they shall order to be raised in this County.

Resolved, That this County will pay the expenses of
their Deputies who shall attend the Congress.

Resolved, That Messrs. Tobias Van Norden and Daniel
Blackford be added to the Committee of Observation for
the Township of Bridgewater. By order:

Frederick Frelinghuysen, Clerk.

RECANTATIONS OF MR. BAILEY, MR. M'MASTER, AND MR.

AC H INC LOSS.

Whereas, I the subscriber, have, for a long series of
time, both done and said many things that I am sensible
has proved of great disadvantage to this Town and the
Continent in general ; and am now determined by my
future conduct to convince the publick that I will risk my
life and interest in defence of the constitutional privileges
of this Continent, and humbly ask the forgiveness of my
friends and the Country in general for my past conduct.

P. Bailey.

Portsmouth, N. H., May 11, 1775.

Whereas, I the subscriber, have, for a long series of
time, both done and said many things that I am sensible
has proved of great disadvantage to this Town and the
Continent in general ; and am now determined by my
future conduct to convince the publick that I will risk my
life and interest in defence of the constitutional privileges
of this Continent, and humbly ask the forgiveness of my
friends and the Country in general for my past conduct.

James McMaster.

Portsmouth, N. H., May 11, 1775.

Whereas my past conduct hath made an ill impression
upon the minds of many of the inhabitants of this Town
and Province ; and as many view me unfriendly to the
rights and liberties of British America, I hereby declare
that I am heartily sorry that any part of my conduct should
have given uneasiness to any of the friends of America;
and hereby engage to aid and assist in supporting the com-
mon cause of America to the utmost of my power ; and I
hope my future conduct will render me worthy of the
friendship and protection of this Country.

Thos. Achincloss.

Portsmouth, N. H., May 22, 1775.

COMMITTEE OF SAFETY TO GENERAL THOMAS.

Cambridge, May 11, 1775.

The Captains Caleb Wright and John Holmes, of the
County of Berkshire, now report verbally, that your Ex-
cellency is willing that about sixty of Colonel Fellows's
men, who have not enlisted, may have liberty to return
home, they having first the consent of this Committee.
We have conferred with his Excellency General Ward,
upon the subject, and are of opinion that no liberty ought
to be granted to any for that purpose until the camps are
so far strengthened as that all who were called in upon the
late alarm may have liberty to return ; and as the Troops
from Connecticut are very soon expected, we think that
these, with others which are daily coming in, will strength-
en our hands so far as to relieve those who want to return
to their homes. We are, &c.

LETTER FROM FALMOUTH, MASS., TO A GENTLEMAN IN
WATERTOWN, DATED MAY 11, 1775.

Sir : It may not be disagreeable to you to have a more
particular account of the solemn scene that has been acted
here for two or three days past, than it can be expected
common fame will give you.

Last Tuesday morning, Lieutenant-Colonel Thompson,
of Brunswick, with about fifty armed men. with each a
small bough of spruce in his hat, and having a spruce pole,
with a green top on it for a standard, landed on the back
part of our Neck, at a place called Sandy Point, where is
a thick grove of trees. In that place they lay, unknown
to the people of the Town, seizing and detaining several
persons that happened to pass that way, till about one
o'clock, when Captain Mowat, the Surgeon of his ship,
and the Reverend Mr. Wiswal, taking a walk that way for
their pleasure, were seized and made prisoners. As soon
as the master of the ship (one Hogg) heard of it, he wrote
to Colonel Freeman, that if Captain Mowat and the other
prisoners were not delivered up in an hour or two, (I do
not certainly know the time,) he would lay the Town in
ashes. You can hardly conceive the consternation, confu-
sion, and uproar that immediately ensued. Our women
were, I believe, every one of them in tears, or praying, or

558

CORRESPONDENCE, PROCEEDINGS, &c, MAY, 1775.

554

screaming; precipitately leaving their houses, especially
those whose husbands were not at home, and widows hur-
rying their goods into countrynven's carts, never asking their
names, though strangers, and carrying their children either
out of Town, or up to the south end, according to the greater
or less irritability of their nerves. Some persons bed-rid,
or in childbed, were hastily removed, with no small danger
of their lives. Several gentlemen of the Town, who could
attend it, and I among the rest, immediately repaired to
Colonel Thompson's camp ; and after obtaining leave of
the advance guard, were permitted to speak with him. We
endeavoured to persuade him to deliver up the prisoners,
by all the rational arguments we could think of, but he ap-
peared inflexible, and even furious. Here and there one
in the Town (none but Tories however) were at first for
rescuing the prisoners by our Militia ; but the general voice
of the Town was to observe a strict neutrality, excepting
persuasives and arguments.

Colonel Phinney, of Gotham, Colonel of the Minute-
Men, being in Town, and fearing a rescue, or for some
other reason, sent out for his men, 1 suppose without asking
the advice of any body ; and soon afterwards sent word
that they need not come iuto Town. Night was coming
on, and the weather cool and windy, which endangered the
health of some of the gentlemen, at least in the open field.
It was therefore agreed by Colonel Freeman and his ad-
visers, at the desire of Mowat, and by the free consent of
Thompson, that the company of Cadets should escort the
party and the prisoners to Mr. Marston's, in order that a
consultation might be further held there. The two com-
panies remained embodied before the door. Colonel
Tliompson remained unwilling to deliver up the prisoners,
insisting much that Divine Providence had thrown them
into his hands, and that it was open and settled war be-
tween the Colonies and Britain. But he was more and
more convinced that the whole force of the Town was
against him, and found himself disappointed of a reinforce-
ment that he expected to meet him here ; so that by about
nine o'clock in the evening he was much cooled ; and the
prisoners giving their parole that they would deliver them-
selves into his hands at nine the next morning, General
Preble and Colonel Freeman pledging themselves for them,
he consented to set them at liberty. Upon which Mowat,
having expressed his gratitude to the Town in strong terms,
went aboard, and dismissed a number of our people, whom
the master had, during the afternoon, caught in boats and
made prisoners. But when Colonel Thompson's men found
that he had given Mowat his liberty, they were hard to
pacify. Not only Colonel Phinney's Minute-Men, but
most of the Militia from Gorham, Scarborough, Cape
Elizabeth, and Stroudioaier, in the whole amounting, it is
said, to six hundred, came into Town before morning, highly
enraged at Captain Mowat's being dismissed, and seem-
ingly determined to destroy his ship. Wednesday morn-
ing, when it was found that Mowat would not deliver him-
self up, the Army took and made prisoners of General
Preble and Colonel Freeman, threatening to treat them in
the same manner as they would treat Mowat, if they had
him. Even their children were not permitted to speak with
them, and they had no dinner that day. All the officers of
the companies then present agreed to resolve themselves
into a Committee of War ; and after some hesitation they
admitted the officers of our companies on the Neck, into the
Committee ; in which Committee a vote was passed by a
considerable majority, that Captain Mowat's ship ought to
be destroyed. In the next place they appointed a Commit-
tee out of their number, to consider in what manner it
should be done. This Committee have not yet reported
as I can find ; but they have proceeded to call men before
them who were suspected of being Tories, to question them,
to draw promises from them, and especially to draw money
and provisions from them. The Reverend Mr. Wiswal
delivered himself up very willingly, and seemed rather im-
patient till they had him with them ; saying to some that
passed by his door, he was ready to die at any time, as he
knew he was in a good cause — the cause of the church of
England,

The Committee interrogated him concerning his politi-
cal principles. He declared an abhorrence of the doctrine
of passive obedience and non-resistance, and that he thought

Great Britain had no right to tax America internally ; but
as to the late Acts of Parliament, he had not examined
them, and did not choose to give bia opinion concerning
them.

Old Mr. Wyer had a file of men sent after him, who,
holding a pistol to his breast, forced him to go before the
Committee; and when there he was interrogated whether
he had said, " the Militia ought to rescue Captain Mowat V
to which he answered in the affirmative; also, whether he
did not think it an imprudent speech ? to which he answer-
ed, yes ; also, whether he were of the same mind now i
He answered, no, as matters are circumstanced ; then
whether he would say any thing again against the body of
men in Town ? He said, no. The Committee soon agreed
to dismiss him, and one of them said he was not worth their
notice. He thanked the gentlemen for their civility, made
a low bow, and departed. Captain Steward called to the
crowd before the door, to make way for Mr. Wyer, and told
them out of the window the Committee had dismissed him
as unworthy of their notice.

Captain Pote was fetched before the Committee, with-
out making any resistance, though he had made formidable
preparations to defend himself. It is reported that the
Committee made him give them, for the benefit of the body,
about fifty Pounds, (old tenour,) in cash and provisions,
and that they have bound him in a bond of two thou-
sand Pounds, to appear at the Congress of the Province,
and give an account of himself to them. They taxed
General Preble some barrels of bread and a number of
cheeses, and two barrels of rum for each company then in
Town, which he readily gave them, Wednesday afternoon,
in value about ten Pounds, lawful money. Wednesday
evening they made out a bill of one hundred and fifty-
eight Pounds, lawful money, against Preble and Freeman,
to satisfy the body for their time and trouble in the expedi-
tion ; but I hear they have dropped that demand.

Yesterday morning they entered the house of Captain
Couison, and they use it as a barrack. The men made so
free with a barrel of New- England rum, which they found
in the cellar, that some of them were quite, and others
almost drunken.

Between meetings yesterday, Calvin Lombard, being
raised with liquor, went down to the water side and fired a
brace of balls at Mowat's ship, which penetrated deep in
its sides. The fire was answered from a fusee on board,
but with no aim to do execution. Captain Mowat imme-
diately wrote to Colonel Freeman to deliver up Calvin,
and to raise the militia to dispel the mob from the country,
as he called them, assuring him that otherwise he must fire
upon the Town. This threw the Town again into a pan-
ick, but we had, notwithstanding, a pretty full meeting in
the afternoon.

Yesterday they hauled Captain Coulson's boat up to the
house, where it remained till just now, three quarters after
twelve, when near a hundred men hauled it up through the
streets and into Captain Pearson's back lot, down almost
to the Cove. It is reported that Mowat sent word, or
wrote on shore last evening, that he had bought that boat
of Couison, and paid for it, and that if it were not returned
immediately, or speedily, he would fire upon the Town.
He doubtless saw it hauled away just now, but he has not
fired as yet; and here I sit writing at my desk in the old
place, being fully convinced that Mowat never will fire
upon the Town, in any case whatever. My house is turn-
ed into a kind of barrack. Several have removed bedding
and other goods into it. We are full at nights. I don't
know why people think themselves so safe here, unless it
be because my wife is not yet much affrighted.

This morning the Committee sent to Deacon Titcomb
for one hundred pounds of bread, who returned for answer
that he had no bread but what he wanted for himself; but
if the company would go out of Town immediately, he
would give it them. Colonel Phinney promised that he
would do his utmost endeavour to get them out of Town
to-day ; therefore the bread was delivered.

Friday, 3 o'clock. — They have just hauled another boat
over to Back Cove, and left it with the former. The boat
belongs to the ship. They have this day carried off Mr.
Tyng's Bishop, a piece of plate said to be worth five hun-
dred Pounds, (old tenour,) and his laced hat ; but they say

555

CORRESPONDENCE, PROCEEDINGS, Lc, MAY, 1775.

556

they only take these things as pawns, to make the owners
behave better, or to that purpose.

Friday, 6 o'clock. — The Oorham Company beini; the
only one that remained here since Wedneday evening, ex-
cepting Thompson, are now gone out of Town, being urged
and coaxed to it by Colonel Phinnnj. The Town thinks
itself greatly relieved by it.

These companies paid no regard to the fast yesterday.
1 cannot find that any of them attended publick worship,
except one ; nor any of their officers, except Colonel Phin-
ney. He was sent for to Back Cove by Colonel Mitchell
and Colonel Merrill, who were vexed at the proceedings
of the armament, and came to give advice. But Thomp-
son would not wait on his senior.

The soldiery thought nothing too bad to say of the Fal-
mouth gentry. Some of them were heard to say as they
walked the streets yesterday, " this Town ought to be laid
in ashes." 1 find the plan was concerted beforehand on
purpose to humble Falmouth, for its arrogance in sending
a message to Thompson last week, to dissuade him from
coming to lake the ships. He then wrote to Colonel Free-
man that he had wholly laid aside his design ; and being
reminded of it, his answer was, " there is policy in war."

Saturday, A. M. — Thompson is not gone, as we sup-
posed last night. The ship has sent out a little vessel with
a swivel, to interrupt him. If he had gone last night he
would have been destroyed. Your friend and servant.

P. S. Being disappointed last Saturday of sending the
above, I am now able to add something more. Captain
Mowat sent a letter to the Town on Saturday, informing
them that he had heard that fort guns were going to be
brought in and replaced, in order to destroy his ship ; and
demanding of the Town to return his boats, and drive out
of Town the cowardly mob that was here. The Select-
men warned a Town-Meeting, to meet at eight o'clock,
Monday morning. They met accordingly, and gave Mowat
such an answer as pleased him : " That the Town disap-
proved of the proceedings of the armed body, but that we
were unable to resist them."

The Reverend Mr.' Wiswal went on board ship on Sa-
turday; and Sabbath morning sent to his Wardens that he
should not preach in the church, but that they might come
on board if they pleased, and hear him. None went.
Some say he has taken a final leave of his people ; how it
is I cannot yet find out. His family remains here, and he
is gone to Portsmouth ; some say and think to get himself
a settlement there. His people seem to be universally set
against him, except a few high Tories, and wish never to
see his face any more.

Yesterday Mowat and Coulson and their ships departed
for Portsmouth. s

COMMITTEE OF DEER ISLAND TO THE MASSACHUSETTS
CONGRESS.
Deer Island, Lincoln County, May 11, 1775.

Sirs : We, who are the Committee of this Town, do desire
to make our complaint unto you, and will inform you in
what poor circumstances we are at this time ; and would
beg your assistance, as we are without powder and ball, and
no way to get any, as our wood and lumber will not sell at
any price ; and, gentlemen, we are in great want for corn
and pork, and shall s ffer, unless we have help from you,
and unless the ports are opened and trade goes on. And,
gentlemen, if you will be so kind unto us as to help us, we
will make you full satisfaction for the same when we can
sell our lumber. We would inform you that there is on
this Island about three hundred souls, and we beg that you
would consider what a poor condition we must be in.
Gentlemen, we can't purchase either corn or pork at any
rate whatsoever, and hope that your love and regard for
your brethren, and true sons of liberty, will send us speedy
relief. And, gentlemen, in complying with the above, you
will greatly oblige your humble servants,

Nathan Dow, Robert Nason,

Francis Haskell, Samlet. Rayner,
Covitney Babidge, Isaiah Crockett.
Thomas Thomson.
To the Hon. Gentlemen of the Provincial Congress.

committee of the Massachusetts congress to the
committee of inspection, new-youk.

Watertown, May 11, 1775.

Gentlemen : We are directed by the Congress of this
Colony, who are just informed that two men-of-war, the
Asia, and one other, with three or four companies of Troops
on board, sailed yesterday from Boston for your place, to
give you the earliest notice thereof.

It is supposed that they have orders to secure the am-
munition and military stores in the Fort of your City, &.c,
and your noble exertions in the common cause have given
the Congress reason to think that a timely information rela-
tive to the matter, would be important to you. The post
is now in waiting, which prevents us from indulging an in-
clination of enlarging. We are, respectfully, gentlemen,
&.C., Elbridge Gerry,

James Warren,

Benjamin Lincoln, )
To the Committee of Inspection of New-York.

Committee of
Congress.

committee at ticonderoga TO THE MASSACHUSETTS
CONGRESS.

Ticonderoga, May 10, 1775.

To the Provincial Congress now sitting at Watertown :

This is to certify, that previous to Colonel Benedict Ar-
nold's arrival to the Forts Ticonderoga and Crown Point,
a Committee sent from the Colony of Connecticut, fur-
nished with money for the purpose of reducing and garri-
soning said Forts, had, with the assistance of seventy men
from the Massachusetts, and one hundred and forty from
the New-Hampshire Grants, marched within a few miles
of Ticonderoga, and this morning, at daybreak, took pos-
session of said Fort, and have given the command thereof
into the hands of Colonel Ethan Allen. And said Arnold
refuses to give up his command, which causes much diffi-
culty ; said Arnold not having enlisted one man, neither do
we know that he has or could do it. And as said Com-
mittee have raised the men, and are still raising supplies
for the purpose of repairing said Forts, taking the armed
sloop, and defending this Country and said Forts, we think
that said Arnold's farther procedure in this matter highly
inexpedient, both in regard to expense and defence.

James Easton, Edward Mott,
Epap. Bull, Noah Phelps.

Committee of War for the Expedition against Ticon-
deroga and Crown Point.

ETHAN ALLEN TO THE MASSACHUSETTS CONGRESS.

Ticonderoga, May 11, 1775.

Gentlemen: I have to inform you with pleasure unfelt
before, that on break of day of the tenth of May, 1775,
by the order of the General Assembly of the Colony of
Connecticut, took the Fortress of Ticonderoga by storm.
The soldiery was composed of about one hundred Green
Mountain Boys, and near fifty veteran soldiers from the
Province of the Massachusetts-Bay . The latter was under
the command of Colonel James Easton, who behaved with
great zeal and fortitude, not only in council, but in the as-
sault. The soldiery behaved with such resistless fury, that
they so terrified the King's Troops that they durst not
fire on their assailants, and our soldiery was agreeably dis-
appointed. The soldiery behaved with uncommon rancour
when they leaped into the Fort ; and it must be confessed
that the Colonel has greatly contributed to the taking of
that Fortress, as well as John Brown, Esq., Attorney at
Law, who was also an able counsellor, and was personally
in the attack. I expect the Colonies will maintain this
Fort. As to the cannon and warlike stores, I hope they
may serve the cause of liberty instead of tyranny, and I
humbly implore your assistance in immediately assisting
the Government of Connecticut in establishing a garrison in
the reduced premises. Colonel Easton will inform you at
large. From, gentlemen, your most obedient humble ser-
vant, • Ethan Allen.

To the Honourable Congress of the Province of the Massa-
chusetts-Bay, or Council of War.

557

CORRESPONDENCE, PROCEEDINGS, &«-., MAY, 1775.

558

BENEDICT ARNOLD TO THE COMMITTEE OF SAFETY.

Ticonderoga, May 11, 1775.

Gentlemen : I wrote you yesterday that arriving in the
vicinity of this place, I found one hundred and fifty men
collected at the instance of some gentlemen from Connect-
icut (designed on the same errand on which I came) headed
by Colonel Ethan Allen, and that I had joined them, not
thinking proper to wait the arrival of the Troops I had
engaged on the road, but to attempt the Fort by surprise ;
that we had taken the Fort at four o'clock yesterday
morning without opposition, and had made prisoners, one
Captain, one Lieutenant, and forty odd privates and subal-
terns, and that we found the Fort in a most ruinous condi-
tion and not worth repairing ; that a party of fifty men were
gone to Croiun Point, and that I intended to follow with as
many men to seize the sloop, &c, and that I intended to
keep possession here until I had farther advice from you.
On and before our taking possession here, I had agreed with
Colonel Allen to issue further orders jointly, until I could
raise a sufficient number of men to relieve his people; on
which plan we proceeded when I wrote you yesterday, since
which, Colonel Allen, finding he had the ascendancy over
his people, positively insisted I should have no command,
as I had forbid the soldiers plundering and destroying pri-
vate property. The power is now taken out of my hands,
and I am not consulted, nor have I a voice in any matters.
There is here at present near one hundred men, who are in
the greatest confusion and anarchy, destroying and plunder-
ing private property, committing every enormity, and pay-
ing no attention to publick service. The party I advised
were gone to Crown Point, are returned, having met with
head winds, and that expedition, and taking the sloop,
(mounted with six guns,) is entirely laid aside. There is
not the least regularity among the Troops, but every thing
is governed by whim and caprice; the soldiers threatening
to leave the garrison on the least affront. Most of them
must return home soon, as their families are suffering.
Under our present situation, I believe one hundred men
would retake the Fortress, and there seems no prospect of
things being in a better situation. I have therefore thought
proper to send an express, advising you of the state of
affairs, not doubting you will take the matter into your
serious consideration, and order a number of Troops to join
those 1 have coming on here, or that you will appoint some
other person to take the command of them and this place,
as you shall think most proper. Colonel Allen is a proper
man to head his own wild people, but entirely unacquainted
with military service ; and as I am the only person who has
been legally authorized to take possession of this place, I
am determined to insist on my right, and I think it my duty
to remain here against all opposition, until I have further
orders. I cannot comply with your orders in regard to the
cannon, &,c, for want of men. I have wrote to the Gov-
ernour and General Assembly of Connecticut, advising them
of my appointment, and giving them an exact detail of
matters as they stand at present. I should be extremely
glad to be honourably acquitted of my commission, and that
a proper person might be appointed in my room. But as
I have, in consequence of my orders from you, gentlemen,
been the first person who entered and took possession of
the Fort, I shall keep it, at every hazard, until I have
further advice and orders from you and the General As-
sembly of Connecticut.

I have the honour to be, gentlemen, your most obedient
humble servant, Benedict Arnold.

P. S. It is impossible to advise you how many cannon
are here and at Crown Point, as many of them are buried
in the ruins. There is a large number of iron, and some
brass, and mortars, he, lying on the edge of the Lake,
which, as the Lake is high, are covered with water. The
confusion we have been in has prevented my getting proper
information, further than that there are many cannon, shells,
mortars, &tc, which may be very serviceable to our Army
at Cambridge. B. A.

EDWARD MOTT TO THE MASSACHUSETTS CONGRESS.

Shoreham, May 11, 1775.

Gf.ntlemen : I would congratulate you on the surrender
of the Garrison of Ticondcroga to the American forces.

The affair was planned and conducted after the following
manner. A number of the principal gentlemen of the As-
sembly at Hartford, on Friday, the twenty-eighth of April,
conversing on the distressed condition of the people of Bos-
ton, and the means necessary to relieve (hem, fell on the
scheme to take that Fortress, that we might have the ad-
vantage of the cannon that were there, to relieve the peo-
ple of Boston. 1 told the gentlemen that in my opinion
it might be taken by surprise with a few men, if properly
conducted. On which they desired me, if I was willing to
serve my Country in that way, to join Captain Noah Phelps,
of Simsbury, and Mr. Bernard Bomans, on that design,
and furnished us with three hundred Pounds in cash, from
the Treasury, and desired us to go forward to the upper
Towns, and search into the situation of said Garrison, and,
if I thought proper, to proceed to take possession of the
same. On which we collected to the number of sixteen
men in Connecticut, and proceeded forward till we came to
Colonel Easto7i's, at Pittsfteld, and there consulted with
Colonel Easton and John Brown, Esq., who, after they
heard our plan of operation, agreed to join us; and, after
informing them that we intended raising our men on the
Grants for the aforesaid purpose, as it would be difficult to
raise and march a number of men through the country any
distance, without our plans being discovered, Colonel Easton
and Mr. Brown told us that the people on the Grants
were poor, and at this time of year it would be difficult to
raise a sufficient number of men thereto take and hold said
Garrison, whereupon Colonel Easton offered to raise men
in his own Regiment for the aforesaid purpose, to join with
the Green Mountain Boys. On which 1 set out with him
for the Town of Jericho, where Colonel Easton raised be-
tween forty and fifty men, and proceeded to Bennington,
at which place the men arrived the next clay. At which
place a Council of War was called, Colonel Easton being
Chairman, it was voted that Colonel Allen should send
forward parties to secure the roads to the northward, to
prevent all intelligence from arriving before us. On Sun-
day evening, the seventh of this instant, {May) we arrived
at Castleton, where, the next day, was held a Council of
War by a Committee chosen for that purpose, of which
Committee I had the honour to be Chairman. After de-
bating and consulting on different methods of procedure in
order to accomplish our designs, it was concluded and voted
that we would proceed in the following manner, viz : That
a party of thirty men, under the command of Captain
Herrick, should, on the next day, in the afternoon, pro-
ceed to Skenesborongh, and lake into custody Major Skene
and his party, and take possession of all the boats that
they should find there, and in the night proceed up the
Lake to Shoreham, with the remainder of our men, which
was about one hundred and forty, who were under the com-
mand of Colonel Ethan Allen, and Colonel James Easton
was his second, and Captain Warner the third in command ;
as these three men were the persons who raised the men,
they were chosen to command, and to rank according to
the number of men that each one raised. We also sent
off Captain Douglass, of Jericho, to proceed directly to
Panton, and there consult his brother-in-law, who lived
there, and send down some boats to Shoreham, if possible, to
help our people over to the Fort. All this was concluded
should be done, or attempted, and voted universally. After
this affair was all settled, and the men pitched on to go in
each party, all were preparing for their march, being then
within about nine miles of Skenesborough, and about
twenty-five miles, the way we went, from Ticanderoga.

Colonel Arnold arrived to us from you with his orders.
We were extremely rejoiced to see that you fully agreed
with us as to the expediency and importance of taking pos-
session of those garrisons, but were shockingly surprised
when Colonel Arnold presumed to contend for the com-
mand of those forces that we had raised, who we had as-
sured should go under the command of their own officers,
and be paid and maintained by the Colony of Connecticut.
But Mr. Arnold, after we had generously told him our
whole plan, strenuously contended and insisted that he had
a right to command them and all their officers, which bred
such a mutiny among the soldiers which had Dearly frus-
trated our whole design, as our men were for clubbing their
fire-locks and marching home, but were prevented by Col-

559

CONNECTICUT ASSEMBLY, MAY, 1715.

560

onel Allen and Colonel Easton, who told them that he
should not have the command of them, and if he had, their
pay would be the same as though they were under their
command: but they would damn the pay, and say they
would not be commanded by any others but those they
engaged with ; and after the Garrison was surrendered,
Mr. Arnold again assumed the command of the Garrison,
although he had not one man there, and demanded it of
Colonel Allen, on which we gave Colonel Allen his orders
in writing, as follows, viz:

" To Colonel Ethan Allot.

'* Sir : Whereas, agreeable to the power and authority to
us riven by the Colony of Connecticut, we have appointed
you to take the command of a party of men, and reduce
and take possession of the Garrison at Ticonderoga, and
the dependencies thereto belonging, and as you are now
in actual possession of the same, you are hereby required
to keep the command and possession of the same, for the
use of the American Colonies, until you have further orders
from the Colony of Connecticut, or the Continental Con-
gress.

" Signed by order of the Committee of War :

" Edward Mott, Chairman."

Colonel James Easton was of great service both in coun-
cil and action, and in raising men for the above expedition,
and appeared to be well qualified to be not only a Colonel
of the Militia at home, but to command in the field. And
also John Brown, Esq., of Pittsficld, we recommend as
an able counsellor, and full of spirit and resolution, as well
as good conduct ; wish they may both be employed in the
service of their Country equal to their merit.

I have the pleasure to add, that on Wednesday morning
last, the tenth of this instant {May) about the break of day,
our men entered the gate, till when they were undiscovered,
and in the most courageous and intrepid manner darted like
lightning upon the guards, so that but two had time to snap
their fire-locks at us, and in a few minutes the Fortress,
with its dependencies, were delivered into our hands. There
are about forty soldiers taken prisoners of war, including
officers and excluding those taken at Skenesborough. Not
one life lost in these noble acquisitions.

I am, gentlemen, in haste, your most obedient humble
servant, Edward Mott,

Chairman of the Committee of War.

To the Honourable Provincial Congress, or to the Council
of War for the Province of Massachusetts-Bay. Per
favour of Colonel James Easton.

CONNECTICUT ASSEMBLY.

At a General Assembly of the Governour and Company
of the English Colony of Connecticut in New-England,
in America, holden at Hartford, in said Colony, on the
second Thursday of May, being the eleventh day of said
month, and continued by several adjournments until the
thirty-first day of the same month, Annoque Domini
1775: Present:

The Honourable Jonathan Trumbull, Esq., Governour ;
the Honourable Matthew Griswold, Esq., Deputy Govern-
our ; Jabez Hamlin, Elisha Sheldon, Eliphalet Dyer,
Jabez Huntington, William Pitkin, Roger Sherman, Wil-
liam Samuel Johnson, Abraham Davenport, Joseph Spen-
cer, Oliver Wolcott, James Abraham Hilhouse, Esquires,
Assistants.

Representatives or Deputies of the Freemen of the
several Towns are as follow, viz :

Hartford. — Colonel John Pitkin, Col. Samuel Wyllys.

Weathersfield. — Major Thomas Belding.

East-Windsor. — Mr. William Wolcott, Colonel Erastus
Wolcott.

Symsbury. — Captain Judah Holcomb, Mr. Asahal Hol-
comb.

Windsor. — Captain Henry Allen, Captain Jonah Phelps.

Farmington. — Captain Isaac Lee, Mr. Jonathan Root.

Suffield. — Mr. Alexander King, Captain John Leavitt.

East-Haddam. — Mr. Daniel Brainard, Mr. Jabez Chap-
man.

Stafford. — Capt. Isaac Pinney, Captain Samuel Davis.

Haddam. — Captain Joseph Brooks, Mr. Joseph Smith.

Colchester. — Mr. Henry Champion, Dr. John Watrous.

Somers. — Mr. Reuben Sikes, Captain Emery Pease.

Hebron. — Captain Benjamin Buel, Captain Obadiah
Hosford.

Glastenbury. — Captain Jonathan Wells, Mr. Ebenezer
Plummer.

Middletown. — Col. Matthew Talcott, Mr. Titus Hosmer.

Bolton. — Mr. Benjamin Trumbull, Mr. Seth King.

Tolland. — Capt. Solomon Wells, Captain Samuel Chap-
man.

Willington. — Maj. Elijah Fenton, Capt. Timothy Pearl.

Enfield. — Major Nathaniel Terry, Mr. Nathaniel Cha-
pin.

Chatham. — Mr. David Sage, Mr. Ebenezer White.

New-Haven. — Mr. Samuel Bishop, Captain Jonathan
Fitch.

Durham. — Colonel James Wadsworth, Mr. Daniel Hall.

Guilford. — Colonel Andrew Ward, Mr. John Burgess.

Derby. — Captain John Holbrook, Mr. Joseph Hull.

Waterblry. — Mr. Joseph Hopkins, Colonel Jonathan
Baldwin.

Milford. — Captain John Fowler, Mr. Ephraim Strong.

Branford. — Captain Edward Russell, Mr. Daniel Page.

Wallingford. — Mr. Samuel Beach, Captain Thaddeus
Cook.

New-London. — Mr. Richard Law, Mr. William Hil-
house.

Norwich. — Mr. Benjamin Huntington, Mr. Samuel Hun-
tington.

Stonington. — Mr. Charles Phelps, Mr. Nathaniel Minor.

Killingworth. — Captain Elnathan Stevens, Capt. John
Pier son.

Groton. — Mr. Thomas Mumford, Mr. Nathan Gallop.

Preston. — Captain Roger Sperry, Colonel John Tyler.

Lyme. — Mr. Marshfield Parsons, Mr. Ezra Selden.

Saybrook. — Captain John Ely.

Fairfield. — Mr. Jonathan Sturgess, Captain Samuel
Squier.

Stratford. — Captain Robert Fairchild, Captain Ichabod
Lewis.

Stamford. — Col. Charles Webb, Col. David Waterbury.

Danbury. — Colonel Joseph Piatt Cook, Mr. Thomas Tay-
lor, Junior.

Ridgefield. — Mr. Lemuel Morehouse.

Reading. — Mr. William Haivley.

Norwalk. — Mr. Thomas Belding.

New-Fairfield. — Mr. Ephraim Hubbel, Captain Nehc-
miah Beardslee.

Greenwich. — Major John Mead, Mr. Peter Mead.

Newtown. — Mr. Joseph Beach.

Windham. — Colonel Jedediah Elderkin, Mr. Ebenezer
Devotion.

Lebanon. — Colonel William Williams, Mr. Jonathan
Trumbull, Junior.

Mansfield. — Colonel Experience Storrs, Mr. Nathaniel
Atwood.

Woodstock. — Captain Elisha Child, Captain Samuel
McClellen.

Coventry. — Captain Ebenezer Kingsbury, Mr. Jeremiah
Ripley.

Canterbury. — Mr. David Payne, Mr. Eliashib Adams.

Killingly. — Mr. Stephen Crosby, Capt. Eleazar Warren.

Pomfret. — General Israel Putnam, Mr. Elisha Lord.

Ashford. — Captain Benjamin Sumner, Captain Ichabod
Ward.

Plainfield. — Captain James Bradford, Mr. William
Robinson.

Voluntown. — Major James Gordon, Mr. Robert Hun-
ter.

Litchfield. — Mr. Jedediah Strong, Major David Welch.

Woodbury. — Mr. Daniel Sherman, Captain Increase
Moseley.

Salisbury. — Colonel Joshua Porter, Captain Abel Camp.

Kent. — Mr. Ephraim Hubbel, Junior, Captain Eliphalet
If hiithsey.

561

CONNECTICUT ASSEMBLY, MAY, 1775.

562

Canaan. — Mr. Asahel Bebee, Captain Samuel Forbes.

Sharon. — Major Ebenezer Gay, Mr. James Pardee.

New-Milford. — Major Samuel Canficld, Captain Sher-
man Boardman.

Goshen. — Colonel Ebenezer Norton, Captain Samuel
Nash.

New-Hartford. — Major Abel Merrill, Mr. Zebulon
Merrill.

Cornwall. — Mr. Heman Swift, Captain Thomas Porter.

Torrington. — Major Epaphras Sheldon, Mr. Noah Mar-
shall.

Harwinton. — Mr. Josiah Phelps, Mr. Mark Prindlc.

Westmoreland. — Captain Zebulon Butler, Major Eze-
kiel Pierce.

William Williams, Esquire, Speaker of the House of Rep-
resentatives ; Richard Law, Esquire, Clerk.

An Act in further addition to an Act entitled an Act for
forming and regidating the Militia, and for the en-
couragement of military skill, for the better defence of
this Colony.

Be it enacted by the Governour, Council, and Repre-
sentatives in General Court assembled, and by the authori-
ty of the same, That the Town of Westmoreland shall be
one entire Regiment, distinguished and called by the name
of the Twenty-Fourth Regiment, and shall be under the
same rules and orders, and have the same powers, privi-
leges, and advantages, as other Regiments of this Colony
by law have.

An Act in further addition to an Act entitled An Act for
forming and regulating the Militia, and for the en-
couragement of military skill, for the better defence of
this Colony.

Be it enacted by the Governour, Council, and Repre-
sentatives in General Court assembled, and by the authori-
ty of the same, That the Towns of Middletown and Chat-
ham shall be one entire Regiment, distinguished and called
by the name of the Twenty-Third Regiment, and shall be
under the same rules and orders, and have the same powers,
privileges, and advantages as other Regiments of this Colo-
ny by law have.

An Act in addition to an Act made and passed at a Gene-
ral Assembly holden at Hartford, on the second Wed-
nesday of January, 1774, incorporating and consti-
tuting the Toivn of Westmoreland.
Be it enacted by the Governour, Council, and Repre-
sentatives in General Court assembled, and by the authori-
ty of the same, That the bounds of the Town of West-
moreland be, and they are hereby extended westward until
they meet with the line lately settled with the Indians at
Fort Stanwix, commonly called the Stanwix Line, bound-
ing north and south on the north and south lines of this
Colony; and the inhabitants on said tract of land annexed
as aforesaid are hereby incorporated with said Town of
Westmoreland, and the same is hereby annexed to the
County of Litchfield, to be under the same regulations
and restrictions as are in and by said Act incorporating
said Town of Westmoreland provided.

Whereas a sum of Money is necessary for payment of
incident charges of Government : Be it enacted by the
Governour, Council, and Representatives in General Court
assembled, and by the authority of the same, That there
be forthwith imprinted the sum of Fifty-Thousand Pounds,
Bills of Credit on this Colony, equal to lawful money, of
suitable denominations, as the Committee herein appointed
shall direct, and of the same tenour with the late emission
of Bills of Credit of this Colony, without interest, paya-
ble at or before the first day of June, Anno Domini 1778,
dated the first day of June, 1775; and Jabez Hamlin,
William Pitkin, George Wyllys, Elisha Williams, Benja-
min Payne, Thomas Seymour, and Jesse Root, Esquires,
or any three of them, are appointed a Committee for the
purpose aforesaid, to take care said Bills be imprinted with
all convenient speed, and to sign and deliver the same to
the Treasurer of this Colony, taking his receipt therefor,
and the said Committee shall be sworn to a faithful dis-
charge of their trust ; and the Treasurer is hereby directed
to pay out said Bills according to the order of Assembly.

And for providing an ample and sufficient Fund to call

in, sink, and discharge the aforesaid sum to be emitted as
aforesaid : Be it enacted by the authority aforesaid, That
a Tax of Seven-Pence on the Pound be, and is hereby
granted and ordered to be levied on all the polls and rate-
able estate in this Colony, according to the list thereof, to
be brought into this Assembly in October, 1776, with
the additions; which Tax shall be collected and paid into
the Treasury of this Colony by the first day of June,
Anno Domini 1778 ; which Tax may be discharged by-
paying the Bills of this Colony of this emission, or lawful
money. And the Treasurer of this Colony is hereby or-
dered and directed to send forth his warrants for collecting
the same accordingly.

Resolved by this Assembly, That the Embargo laid by
the General Assembly at their session in April last, be
continued on the several articles mentioned in the Act of
said Assembly laying said Embargo, until the first day of
August next, and the same is continued by this Assembly ;
and his Honour the Governour is desired to issue his
Proclamation accordingly: provided, nevertheless, that his
Honour the Governour, by and with the advice of the
Council, be, and is hereby empowered to discontinue such
Embargo, in whole or in part, at any time when it may be
judged proper and expedient.

Resolved by this Assembly, That there be provided
ninety Marque or Officers' Tents, and five hundred Tents
for private Soldiers, and also Cloth for forty-eight marque
tents and four hundred and sixty tents for private soldiers ;
one thousand and ninety-eight iron Pots that will contain
about ten quarts each, unless a number of tin Kettles are
already provided, in which case the number of pots be
reduced to the number that will remain after deducting
said kettles, but if the number of pots cannot be procured,
then the defect to be supplied with tin kettles ; and one
thousand and ninety-eight Pails ; two brass Kettles that
will contain from eight to twelve gallons, for the use of
each Company; two thousand and five hundred wooden
Bowls, in the whole ; four Frying Pans for the use of each
Company ; six thousand quart Rundlets ; sixty Drums, and
one hundred and twenty Fifes, all for the use of said
Troops ; six Standards, one for each Regiment, distin-
guished by their colour as follows, viz : for the first yel-
low, for the second blue, for the third scarlet, for the fourth
crimson, for the fifth white, and for the sixth azure ; a
Medicine Chest and apparatus to the value not exceeding
Forty Pounds, for each Regiment, under the direction of
the respective Surgeons, with a capital set of Instruments
for the use of the whole corps on each particular destina-
tion, and that whatever of medicine, apparatus, and instru-
ments are left or not used, be returned for the use of the
Colony ; about seventy Books, each in quarto, consist-
ing of one quire of paper, covered with cartridge paper ;
two reams of writing paper immediately ; also ten reams
of paper for making cartridges ; and also one Cart or Wagon
for each Company.

And it is further resolved by this Assembly, That the
allowance of Provisions for said Troops be as follows, viz :
three-quarters of a pound of Pork, or one pound of Beef,
and also one pound of Bread or Flour, with three pints of
Beans to each man per day, the beef to be fresh two days
in the week ; and also half a pint of Rice or a pint of In-
dian-Meal, and also six ounces of Butter; also three pints
of Peas or Beans to each man per week ; also one gill of
Rum to each man upon fatigue per day, and not at any
other time ; Milk, Molasses, Candles, Soap, Vinegar,
Coffee, Chocolate, Sugar, Tobacco, Onions in their season,
and Vegetables be provided for said Troops, at the dis-
cretion of the General and Field Officers.

And it is further resolved by this Assembly, That One
Shilling and Six Pence shall be paid to each of said men
who shall supply themselves with three pounds of Ball,
also Three Shillings for a pound of Powder, and Three
Pence for half a dozen Flints ; in case of failure such
defect to be supplied by the Selectmen of each Town re-
spectively out of the Town Stock, and in case of further
failure the deficiency of three pounds of ball, one pound
of powder, and six flints to each man, shall be supplied
out of the stock of ammunition belonging to this Colony,
and the Treasurer is hereby directed to order the same
accordingly. Those Troops who march Eastward to be
supplied out of the Colony stock at New-London, Nor-

Fourth Series. — Vol. u.

36

563

CONNECTICUT ASSEMBLY, MAY, 1775.

5t4

wich, Windham, or Mansfield; and that the account of
powder, ball, and Hints that shall be supplied by the several
Towns, shall be adjusted by two Assistants or Justices of
t lie Peace, and delivered to the Selectmen of such respec-
tive Towns, who shall present the same to the Committee
of the Pay-Table, who shall give an order on the Trea-
surer to pay the sum due to such Selectmen accordingly;
and that the Paymaster of each Company shall take a
particular account of the powder, ball, and Hints that each
person belonging to such Company shall provide for him-
self, and shall procure an order on the Treasurer from the
Committee of the Pay-Table for the sums due for the same
according to the rates aforesaid, and such Paymaster shall
.e and pay the same to each person to whom it is due
accordingly; and that (i\e thousand of the flints that belong
to this Colony shall be sent to New-London, and five
thousand of ditto to Norivkh, ten thousand of ditto to (Viral-
ham, five thousand of ditto to remain at New-Haven, three
thousand of ditto be sent to Fairfield, and two thousand
be sent to Litchfield, and delivered to the Keepers of the
Colony Stores in those places ; and that one ton of the ball
belonging to the Colony, in the care of the Treasurer, be
forthwith sent to Windham.

An Act for encouraging the Manufacturing Fire-Arms

and Military Stores within this Colony, for the safety

and defence thereof

Be it enacted by the Governour, Council, and Repre-
sentatives in General Court assembled, and by the authori-
ty of the same, That there be procured, as soon as may
be, three thousand stands of Arms for the use of this Colo-
ny, of the following dimensions, viz : the length of the
barrel of the gun three feet and ten inches, the diameter
of the bore from inside to inside three-quarters of an inch,
the length of the blade of the bayonet sixteen inches, the
length of the socket four inches and one-quarter; that the
barrels of the guns be of a suitable thickness, with iron
ramrods, with a spring in the lowest loop to secure the
ramrod ; a good substantial lock, and a good stock well
mounted with brass, and marked with the name or initial
letters of the maker's name.

And be it further enacted by the authority aforesaid,
That a bounty of Five Shillings shall be given for every
stand of Arms, including a good lock, that shall be manu-
factured within this Colony by or before the twentieth day
of October next ; provided the same be not made for or
sold to any person not belonging to this Colony; and also
tiiat a bounty or premium of One Shilling and Six Pence
bo given for every good Gun-lock that shall be made and
manufactured within this Colony by or before the twentieth
day of October next ; and that all such arms made and
manufactured in this Colony by or before the twentieth day
of October next, shall be purchased by this Colony at a
reasonable price over and above the premium or bounty
aforesaid.

And it is further enacted by the authority aforesaid,
That William Williams, William Hilhouse, Titus Hosmer,
Ichabod Lewis, Ebenezer Norton, and Erastus Wolcott,
Esquires, be, and they are hereby appointed a Committee
to procure said Fire- Arms to be made and completed ac-
cording to the direction of this Act ; and said Committee
are hereby ordered and directed forthwith to make inquiry
what number of fire-arms and gun-locks may probably be
made and furnished in the several parts of this Colony by
the twentieth day of October next, and report the same to
his Honour the Governour as soon as may be. And said
Committee are also hereby empowered and directed to re-
ceive such sums of money out of the publick Treasury as
may be necessary to pay for the arms that shall be made
and completed pursuant to this Act by the time limited as
aforesaid, with the bounty and premium aforesaid ; and the
Treasurer of this Colony is hereby ordered and directed to
pay the same accordingly. And said Committee are here-
by directed to pay the same to the several persons to whom
it is due pursuant to this Act, according to the orders and
directions they shall receive from the General Assembly of
this Colony for that purpose, and receive and secure such
arms so purchased for the use and benefit of this Colony.

And it is further enacted by the authority aforesaid,
That a bounty or premium of Ten Pounds shall be given
for every fifty pounds weight of Saltpetre that shall be

made and manufactured from materials found in this Colo-
ny within one year next after the rising of this Assembly,
and so in proportion for a greater or lesser quantity. And
also that a bounty or premium of Five Pounds shall be
given for every hundred pounds weight of Sulphur that
shall be made and manufactured within this Colony from
materials found in any of the British Colonies on the Con-
tinent of America within one year next after the rising of
this Assembly, and so in proportion for a greater or lesser
quantity.

An Act for Regulating and Ordering the Troops that

are or may be raised for the defence of this Colony.

Whereas God in his providence hath been pleased in
great mercy to bestow upon the inhabitants of this Colony
all the rights, liberties, and immunities of the free and
natural-born subjects of the Realm of England, which
have been established and confirmed by a sacred compact,
and secured by a Royal Charter — which rights, liberties,
and immunities were the birthright of our brave, virtuous,
and religious ancestors whilst in England, who, rather than
submit to religious or civil tyranny, chose to leave their
pleasant seats and all their happy prospects in their native
Country, bravely encountered the danger of untried seas
and coasts of a howling wilderness, barbarous men and
savage beasts, at the expense of their ease and safety of
their blood, their treasure, and their lives, transplanted and
reared the English Constitution in these wilds upon the
strong pillars of civil and religious liberty, and having led
the way by their great example, bequeathed their inesti-
mable purchase as a sacred and inalienable legacy to their
posterity, who have ever since united the sincerest loyalty
to their Sovereign and the warmest affection for their elder
brethren in England with the enjoyment of their aforesaid
rights, liberties, and immunities ; nor have they till lately
been thought incompatible:

And whereas since the close of the last war the British
Parliament, claiming a power of right to bind the people of
America by Statute in all cases whatsoever hath, in some
Acts, expressly imposed taxes upon them; and in others,
under various pretences, but in fact for the purpose of rais-
ing a Revenue, hath imposed rates and duties payable in
these Colonies, established a Board of Commissioners with
unconstitutional powers, and extended the jurisdiction of
Courts of Admiralty, not only for collecting said duties,
but also for the trial of causes merely arising within the
body of a County :

And whereas, in consequence of other Statutes, Judges,
who before held only estates at will in their offices, have
been made to depend on the Crown alone for their salaries ;
and Standing Armies kept up in time of peace ; and it has
been lately resolved in Parliament that, by force of a Sta-
tute made in the thirty-fifth year of the reign of King Henry
the Eighth, Colonists may be transported to England and
tried there upon accusations for treason and misprision, or
concealment of treasons committed or alleged to be com-
mitted in the Colonies ; and by a late Statute such trials
have been directed in cases therein mentioned :

And whereas three Acts of Parliament have been pass-
ed, by one of which the Port of Boston is shut up, and
thousands reduced from affluence to poverty and distress ;
by another the Charter of the Province of the Massachu-
setts-Bay is subverted and destroyed ; and by the third,
under pretence of the impartial administration of justice,
all hope of justice is taken away in certain cases :

And whereas another Statute hath been made, by which
the Roman Catholick Religion is established, the equita-
ble system of English laws abolished, and a tyranny exer-
cised in the Province of Quebeck, to the great danger of
the neighbouring Colonies ; and also in the present session
of Parliament another Act is passed, by which the New-
England Colonies are in a great measure deprived of their
Trade and Fishery — the blessings which God and nature
have indulged them, being thus attempted by force to be
wrested from them :

And whereas all our humble, dutiful, and loyal Petitions
to the Throne for redress of grievances, have been treated
with contempt, or passed by in silence by His Majesty's
Ministers of State ; and the refusal to surrender our just
rights, liberties, and immunities, hath been st>led rebellion,
and Fleets and Armies have been sent into a neighbouring

565

CONNECTICUT ASSEMBLY, MAY, 1"5.

566

Colony to force them to submit to slavery, and awe the
other Colonies to submission, by the example of vengeance
indicted on her; who have, besides the usual calamities and
insults that proceed from standing armies, fortified the
Town of Boston, driven the peaceable inhabitants from
their dwellings, and imbrued their hands in the blood of
our countrymen ; all which acts and measures have rela-
tion to all the British Colonies, in the principles from which
they flow, and are evidently intended to force or terrify
them into a submission to Parliamentary taxation, or at
least into a surrender of their property at the pleasure of
the British Parliament, and in such proportions as they
shall please to prescribe, with which we must comply, or
lie at the mercy of those who cannot know our situation and
circumstances, and will be interested to oppress and en-
slave us; our liberty, our lives and property, will become
precarious and dependant on the will of men over whom
we can have no check or control ; religion, property, per-
sonal safety, learning, arts, publick and private virtue, so-
cial happiness, and every blessing attendant on liberty, will
fall victims to measures advanced and pursued against us,
whilst shameless vice, infidelity, irreligion, abject depend-
ance, ignorance, superstition, meanness, scurrility, and the
whole train of despotism present themselves to our view in
melancholy prospect :

And whereas, although this Assembly wish for no new
rights and privileges, and desire only to preserve their
ancient Constitution, as it has been understood and prac-
tised upon from the beginning; freely yielding to the Bri-
tish Parliament the regulation of our external commerce,
for the purpose of securing the commercial advantages of
all the Dominions of our Sovereign to the Mother Coun-
try, and the commercial benefits of its several members,
excluding every idea of taxation for raising a revenue with-
out our consent, and claiming only a right to regulate our
internal police and Government, and are most earnesly de-
sirous of peace, and deprecate the horrours of war ; yet,
when they see military preparations against them at hand,
and the hopes of peace and harmony placed at a greater
distance ; being fully determined never to make a voluntary
sacrifice of their rights, and not knowing how soon Parlia-
mentary and Ministerial vengeance may be directed against
them immediately, as it is now against the Province of
Massachusetts-Bay , who are suffering in the common cause
of British America ; trusting in the justice of their cause,
and the righteous providence of Almighty God, for the
restoration of quiet and peace, or success in their efforts
for their defence, have thought it their duty to raise Troops
for the defence of this Colony :

And whereas it is necessary that such Troops, both offi-
cers and soldiers, should be made acquainted with their
duty, and that Articles, Rules, and Regulations should be
established to preserve order, good government, and dis-
cipline in the Army, agreeable to the mild spirit of our
Constitution, and not according to the severities practised
in Standing Armies :

Therefore, be it enacted by the Governour, Council, and
Representatives, in General Court assembled, and by au-
thority of the same: Article i. That all officers and sol-
diers not having just impediment shall diligently frequent
divine service and sermon, in the places appointed for as-
sembling the Regiment, Troop, or Company to which they
belong; and such as wilfully absent themselves, or being
present behave indecently or irreverently, shall, if commis-
sioned officers, be brought before a Regimental Court Mar-
tial, there to be publickly and severely reprimanded by the
President; if non-commissioned officers or soldiers, every
person so offending shall, for his first offence, forfeit One
Shilling, to be deducted out of his wages ; for his second
offence, he shall not only forfeit One Shilling, but be con-
fined not exceeding twenty-four hours, and for every like
offence shall suffer and pay in like manner; which money
so forfeited shall be applied to the use of the sick soldiers
of the Troop or Company to which the offender belongs.

Art. ii. That whatever non-commissioned officers and
soldiers shall use any unlawful oath or execration, shall
incur the penalties expressed in the first Article ; and if a
commissioned officer be thus guilty of profane cursing or
swearing, he shall forfeit and pay for each and every such
offence the sum of Four Shillings, lawful money.

Art. hi. That any officer or soldier who shall behave

himself with contempt or disrespect towards the General
or Generals, or Commander-in-Chief, or shall speak words
tending to his or their hurt or dishonour, shall be punished
according to the nature of his offence, by the judgment of
a General Court Martial.

Art. iv. That any officer or soldier who shall begin,
excite, cause, or join in any meeting or sedition in the Re-
giment, Troop, or Company to which he belongs, or in any
other Regiment, Troop, or Company of the forces of this
Colony, either by land or sea, or in an party, post, detach-
ment, or guard, on any pretence whatsoever, shall suffer
such punishment as by a General Court Martial shall be
ordered.

Art. v. That any officer, non-commissioned officer, or
soldier, who being present at any meeting or sedition, does
not use his utmost endeavours to suppress the same, or,
coming to the knowledge of any mutiny or intended muti-
ny, does not, without delay, give information thereof to the
commanding officers, shall be punished by order of a Gen-
eral Court Martial according to the nature of his offence.

Art. vi. That any officer or soldier who shall strike his
superiour officer, or draw or offer to draw, or shall lift up
any weapon or offer any violence against him, being in the
execution of his office, on any pretence whatsoever, or
shall disobey any lawful command of his superiour officer,
shall suffer such punishment as shall, according to the na-
ture of his offence, be ordered by the sentence of a Gen-
eral Court Martial.

Art. vii. That any non-commissioned officer or soldier
who shall desert, or without leave of his commanding offi-
cer absent himself from the Troop or Company to which
he belongs, or from any detachment of the same, shall,
upon being convicted thereof, be punished according to the
nature of his offence, at the discretion of a General Court
Martial.

Art. viii. That whatsoever officer or soldier shall be
convicted of having advised or persuaded any other officer
or soldier to desert, shall suffer such punishment as shall
be ordered by the sentence of a General Court Martial.

Art. ix. That all officers of what condition soever shall
have power to part and quell all quarrels, frays and dis-
orders, though the persons concerned should belong to
another Regiment, Troop, or Company, and either order
officers to be arrested, or non-commissioned officers or sol-
diers to be confined and imprisoned, till their proper supe-
riour officers shall be acquainted therewith ; and whoever
shall refuse to obey such officer, though of an inferiour
rank, or shall draw his sword upon him, shall be punished
at the discretion of a General Court Martial.

Art. x. That no officer or soldier shall use any re-
proachful or provoking speeches or gestures to another, nor
shall any officer or soldier presume to send a challenge to
any person to fight a duel ; and whoever shall, knowingly
and willingly, suffer any person whatsoever to go forth
to fight a duel, or shall second, promote, or carry any
challenge, shall be deemed a principal therein ; and what-
soever officer or soldier shall upbraid another for refusing
a challenge shall also be considered as a challenger, and all
such offenders in any of these or such like cases, shall be
punished at the discretion of a General Court Martial.

Art. xi. That every officer commanding in quarters, or
on a march, shall keep good order, and to the utmost of his
power redress all such abuses or disorders which may be
committed by any officer or soldier under his command ;
if upon any complaint made to him of officers or soldiers
beating or otherwise ill treating any person, or of commit-
ting any kind of riot to the disquieting of the inhabitants
of this Continent, he the said commander who shall refuse
or omit to see justice done on the offender or offenders,
and reparation make to the party or parties injured, as far as
the offender's wages shall enable him or them, shall, upon
due proof thereof, be punished as ordered by a General
Court Martial, in such manner as if he himself had com-
mitted the crimes or disorders complained of.

Art xil. That if any officer shall think himself to be
wronged by his Colonel, or his Commanding Officer of
the Regiment, and shall, upon due application made to
him, be refused to be redressed, he may complain to the
General or Commander-in-Chief of the forces of this Col-
ony, in order to obtain justice, who is hereby required to
examine into said complaint and see that justice be done.

567

CONNECTICUT ASSEMBLY, MAY, 1775.

568

Akt. xiii. That if any inferiour officer or soldier shall
think: himself wronged by his Captain or other officer com-
manding the Troop or Company to which he belongs, he
is to complain thereof to the Commanding Officer of the
Regiment, who is hereby required to summon a Regimental
Court Martial for the doing justice to the complainant,
from which Regimental Court Martial either party may, if
he think himself still aggrieved, appeal to a General Court
Martial; but if, upon a second bearing, the appeal shall
appear to be vexatious and groundless, the person so ap-
pealing shall be punished at the discretion of the General
Court Martial.

Art. xiv. That whatsoever non-commissioned officer
or soldier shall be convicted at a Regimental Court Mar-
tial of having sold, or designedly, or through neglect, wast-
ed the Ammunition, Arms, or Provision, or other Military
Stores delivered out to him to be employed in the service
of this Colony, shall, if an officer, be reduced to a private
sentinel, and if a private soldier, shall suffer such punish-
ment as shall be ordered by a Regimental Court Martial.

Art. xv. That all non-commissioned officers and sol-
diers who shall be found one mile from the camp, without
leave in writing from their Commanding Officer, shall suf-
fer such punishment as shall be inflicted on him or them
by the sentence of a Regimental Court Martial.

Art. xvi. That no officer or soldier shall be out of his
quarters or camp without leave from their Commanding
Officer of the Regiment, upon penalty of being punished,
according to the nature of his offence, by order of a Regi-
mental Court Martial.

Art. xvii. That every non-commissioned officer or sol-
dier shall retire to bis quarters or tent at the beating of the
retreat, in default of which he shall be punished according
to the nature of bis offence, by order of the Commanding
Officer.

Art. xviii. That no officer, non-commissioned officer,
or soldier, shall fail of repairing at the time fixed, to the
place of parade or exercise, or other rendezvous appointed
by the Commanding Officer, if not prevented by sickness
or some other evident necessity, or shall go from the said
place of rendezvous, or from his guard, without leave from
his Commanding Officer, before he shall be regularly dis-
missed or relieved, on penalty of being punished according
to the nature of his offence, by the sentence of a Regi-
mental Court Martial.

Art. xix. That whatsoever commissioned officer shall
be found drunk on his guard, party, or other duty, under
arms, shall be cashiered for it ; any non-commissioned officer
or soldier so offending, shall suffer such punishment as shall
be ordered by the sentence of a Regimental Court Martial.

Art. xx. That whatsoever sentinel shall be found sleep-
ing upon his post, or shall leave it before he shall be regu-
larly relieved, shall suffer such punishment as shall be or-
dered by the sentence of a General Court Martial.

Art. xxi. That any person belonging to the Troops of
this Colony, who, by discharging of fire-arms, beating of
drums, or by any other means whatever, shall occasion false
alarms in camp or quarters, shall suffer such punishment as
shall be ordered by the sentence of a General Court Martial.

Art. xxii. That any officer or soldier who shall, with-
out urgent necessity, or without leave of his superiour offi-
cer, quit platoon or division, shall be punished according to
the nature of his offence, by the sentence of a Regimental
Court Martial.

Art. xxiii. That no officer or soldier shall do violence
or offer any insult or abuse to any person who shall bring
provisions or other necessaries to the camp or quarters of
the Army ; any officer or soldier so offending shall, upon
complaint being made to the Commanding Officer, suffer
such punishment as shall be ordered by a Regimental Court
Martial.

Art. xxiv. That whatsoever officer or soldier shall
shamefully abandon any post committed to his charge, or
shall speak words inducing others to do the like in time of
an engagement, shall suffer death immediately.

Art. xxv. That any person belonging to the forces
raised, or that may be raised for the defence of this Colo-
ny, who shall make known the watchword to any person
who is not entitled to receive it according to the rules and
discipline of war, or shall presume to give a parole or
watchword different from what he received, shall suffer

death, or such other punishment as shall be ordered by the
sentence of a General Court Martial.

Art. xxvi. That whosoever belonging to the forces
raised, or that may be raised for the defence of this Colo-
ny, shall relieve the enemy in Money, Victuals, or Ammu-
nition, or shall knowingly harbour or protect an enemy,
shall suffer such punishment as by a General Court Martial
shall be ordered.

Art. xxvii. That whosoever belonging to the forces
already raised, or that may be raised for the defence of this
Colony, shall be convicted of holding correspondence with,
or of giving intelligence to, the enemy, either directly or
indirectly, shall suffer such punishment as by a General
Court Martial shall be ordered.

Art. xxviii. That all Publick Stores taken in the ene-
my's camp or magazines, whether of Artillery, Ammuni-
tion, Clothing, or Provisions, shall be secured for the use
of the Colony.

Art. xxix. That if any officer or soldier shall leave
his Post or Colours, in time of an engagement, to go in
search of plunder, he shall, upon being convicted thereof
before a General Court Martial, suffer such punishment as
by said Court Martial shall be ordered.

Art. xxx. That if any Commander of any Post, In-
trenchment, or Fortress, shall be compelled by the officers
or soldiers under his command to give it up to the enemy,
or to abandon it, the commissioned officers, non-commis-
sioned officers, or soldiers, who shall be convicted of having
so offended, shall suffer death, or such other punishment
as shall be inflicted upon them by the sentence of a Gen-
eral Court Martial.

Art. xxxi. That all sutlers and retailers to a camp,
and all persons whatsoever serving with the forces already
raised, or that may be raised for the defence of this Colony
in the field, though not enlisted soldiers, are to be subjected
to the same orders, rules, and regulations, to which the offi-
cers and soldiers are or shall be subjected.

Art. xxxii. That no General Court Martial shall con-
sist of less than thirteen, none of which shall be under the
degree of a commissioned officer ; and the President of each
and every Court Martial, whether General or Regimental,
shall have power to administer an oath to every witness, in
order to the trial of offenders ; and the members of all
Courts Martial shall be duly sworn by the President, and
the next in rank on the Court Martial shall administer the
oath to the President.

Art. xxxiii. That the members both of General and
Regimental Courts Martial shall, when belonging to different
Corps, take the same rank which they hold in the Army ;
but when Courts Martial shall be composed of officers of one
Corps, they shall take their ranks according to their com-
missions by which they are mustered in the said Corps.

Art. xxxiv. That all the members of a Court Martial
are to behave with calmness, decency, and impartiality,
and in giving of their votes are to begin with the youngest
or lowest in commission.

Art. xxxv. That no Field Officer shall be tried by any
person under the degree of a Captain ; nor shall any pro-
ceedings or trials be carried on, excepting between the
hours of eight in the morning and three in the afternoon,
except in cases which require an immediate example.

Art. xxxvi. That the commissioned officers of a Regi-
ment may, by the appointment of their Colonel or Com-
manding Officer, hold Regimental Courts Martial for the
inquiry into such disputes or criminal matters as may come
before them, and for the inflicting corporeal punishments
for small offences, and shall give judgment by the majority
of votes ; but no sentence shall be executed till the Com-
manding Officer (not being a member of the Court Martial)
shall have confirmed the same.

Art. xxxvii. That no Regimental Court Martial shall
consist of less than five officers, excepting in cases where
that number cannot be conveniently assembled, when three
may be sufficient, who are likewise to determine by the
majority of voices, which sentence is to be confirmed by
the Commanding Officer,, not being a member of the Court
Martial.

Art. xxxviii. That every officer commanding in any
Fort, Castle, or Barrack, or elsewhere, where the Corps
under bis command consists of detachments from different
Regiments, or of independent Companies, may assemble

569

CONNECTICUT ASSEMBLY, MAY, 1775.

570

Courts Martial for the trial of offenders, in the same man-
ner as if they were Regimental, whose sentence is not to
l>e executed till it shall be confirmed by the said Command-
ing Officer.

Art. xxxix. That no person whatsoever shall use me-
nacing words, signs or gestures, in the presence of a Court
Martial then sitting, or shall cause any disorder or riot so
as to disturb their proceedings, on the penalty of being pun-
ished at the discretion of the Court Martial.

Art. xl. That to the end that offenders may be brought
to justice, whenever any officer or soldier shall commit a
crime deserving punishment, he shall, by his Commanding
Officer, if an officer, be put in arrest; if a non-commis-
sioned officer or soldier, be imprisoned till he shall be
either tried by a Court Martial, or shall be lawfully dis-
charged by proper authority.

Art. xli. That no officer or soldier who shall be put
in arrest or imprisonment, shall continue in his confinement
more than eight days, or till such time as a Court Martial
can be conveniently assembled.

Art. xlii. That no officer commanding a Guard, or
Provost Marshal, shall refuse to receive or keep any pri-
soner committed to his charge by an officer belonging to
the forces aforesaid, which officer shall, at the same time,
deliver an account in writing, signed by himself, of the
crime with which the said prisoner is charged.

Art. xliii. That no officer commanding a Guard, or
Provost Martial, shall presume to release any prisoner com-
mitted to his charge, without proper authority for so doing ;
nor shall he suffer any prisoner to escape, on the penalty
of being punished for it by the sentence of a General Court
Martial.

Art. xliv. That every Officer or a Provost Martial to
whose charge prisoners shall be committed, is hereby re-
quired, within twenty-four hours after such commitment, or
as soon as he shall be relieved from his guard, to give, in
writing, to the Colonel of the Regiment to whom the pri-
soner belongs, (where the prisoner is confined upon the
guard belonging to the said Regiment, and that his offence
only relates to the neglect of duty in his own Corps,) or to
the Commander-in-Chief, their names, their crimes, and
the names of the officers who committed them, on the
penalty of being punished for his disobedience or neglect,
at the discretion of a General Court Martial.

Art. xlv. And if any officer under arrest shall leave
his confinement before he is set a liberty by the officer who
confined him, or by a superiour power, he shall be cash-
iered for it.

Art. xlvi. That whatsoever commissioned officer shall
be convicted before a General Court Martial of behaving
in a scandalous, infamous manner, such as is unbecoming
the character of an officer and a gentleman, shall be dis-
charged from the service.

Art. xlvii. That all officers, conductors, matrosses,
drivers, or any other persons whatsoever, receiving pay or
hire in the service of the Artillery of this Colony, shall be
governed by the aforesaid Rules and Articles, and shall be
subject to be tried by Court Martial in like manner with
the officers and soldiers of the Troops.

Art. xlviii. That for offences arising amongst them-
selves, or in matters relating solely to their own Corps, the
Courts Martial may be composed of their own officers; but
where a number sufficient of such officers cannot be assem-
bled, or in matters wherein other Corps are interested, the
officers of Artillery shall sit in Courts Martial with the
officers of the other Troops.

Art. xlix. That all crimes not capital, and all disorders
and neglects which officers and soldiers may be guilty of
to the prejudice of good order and military discipline,
though not mentioned in the Articles of War, are to be
taken cognizance of by a General or Regimental Court
Martial, according to the nature or degree of the offence,
and be punished at their discretion.

Art. l. That no Courts Martial shall order any offender
to be whipped or receive more than thirty-nine stripes for
one offence.

Art. li. That the Field Officers of each and every
Regiment are to appoint some suitable person belonging to
such Regiment, to receive all such Fines as may arise
within the same for any breach of any of the foregoing
Articles, and shall direct the same to be carefully and pro-

perly applied to the relief of such sick, wounded, or neces-
sitous soldiers as belong to such Regiment, and such per-
sons shall account with such officer for all Fines received,
and the application thereof.

Art. lii. That all members sitting in Courts Martial
shall be sworn by the President of said Courts, which Pre-
sident shall himself be sworn by the officer in said Court
next in rank; the oath to be administered previous to their
proceeding to the trial of any offender, in form following,
viz : " You, A B, swear that you will well and truly try and
impartially determine the cause of the prisoner now to be
tried, according to the Rules for Regulating the Forces
raised or to be raised for the defence of the Colony of Con-
necticut, so help you God."

Art. liii. That all persons called to give evidence in
any case before a Court Martial, who shall refuse to give
evidence, shall be punished for such refusal at the discre-
tion of such Court Martial ; the oath to be administered
in the form following, viz : " You swear the evidence you
shall give in the case now in hearing shall be the truth, the
whole truth, and nothing but the truth, so help you God."

Resolved by this Assembly, That the military officers in
the several Towns, that were concerned in assembling or
furnishing with Ammunition any of the inhabitants of this
Colony who marched in the late alarm, either eastward or
westward, are hereby ordered and directed to deliver to the
Selectmen of such respective Towns, where any expense
has been occasioned thereby, a particular account of the
names of the persons who marched under arms as afore-
said, for the relief of people in distress, and have since
returned ; and also of the time every such person was
detained, from the first of his inarch till his return ; and
also the quantity of Ammunition every such person was
supplied with from any Colony or Town stock. And the
Selectmen of all such respective Towns are hereby order-
ed and directed to collect a particular account of the ex-
penses for provision, carriage, Sic, that has incurred by
means aforesaid, in such Town severally, with the names
of the persons who advanced the same, or to whom the
satisfaction may be due. And such Selectmen are also or-
dered and directed to lay before the Committee of the Pay-
Table a particular account of the quantum of each article
of expense for provision, time of those that marched, mo-
ney advanced, &,c. ; which Committee of the Pay-Table
are hereby ordered and directed to settle and adjust such
accounts, and allow what shall be just and reasonable ; the
pay of the officers respectively, and wages of the men, to
be the same as in the present establishment, and give to
such Selectmen an order on the Treasurer for payment of
the same. And such Selectmen are hereby directed to
receive and pay the same accordingly to each of the per-
sons to whom it is due ; and such Selectmen are also here-
by ordered and directed to receive back of such persons
who marched in the service aforesaid, and have returned,
such articles of Ammunition as they received from any
Colony or Town stock, and see the same duly returned
accordingly. And in case such Ammunition or part there-
of shall not be returned, the value of such proportion so
detained by each of said persons who received the same,
shall be deducted out of the sum allowed to him respec-
tively for his service aforesaid.

Whereas there is convincing evidence that a design is
formed by the British Ministry of making a cruel invasion
from the Province of Qucbeck upon the Northern Colo-
nies, for the purpose of distressing our lives and liberties,
and some steps have actually been taken to carry said de-
sign into execution : And whereas several inhabitants of
the Northern Colonies, residing in the vicinity of Ticon-
deivga, immediately exposed to incursions, impelled by a
just regard for the defence and preservation of themselves
and their countrymen from such imminent dangers and
calamities, have taken possession of that post and of Croun
Point, in which were lodged a quantity of Cannon and
Military Stores, that would certainly have been used in the
intended invasion of these Colonies, and have also taken
into their custody a number of officers and soldiers who
were holding and keeping said Posts, and of their own
motion have sent them into this Colony ; and as this Colo-
ny has no command of said Posts, now in possession of
people of several Colonies, it is impracticable for said offi-

571

CONNECTICUT ASSEMBLY, MAY, 1775.

572

cers and soldiers to return to said posts, and the dictates of
humanity require that said officers and soldiers, with their
families, should he provided for and supported while they
continue in this Colony : it is therefore,

II tohed by this Assembly, That Col. Erastus Wolcott,
Captain Samuel Wadneorta, Captain Ezekiel Williams,
and Mr. Epaphrai Bull, Henry Allyn, Esquire, Colonel
Fisher Gay, Co\. Matthew Talcott, Col. James fradawprth,
Captain Jonathan Wells, Ebenexer White, Esquire, and
Colonel Jonathan Humphrey he, and they, or any three
of thein, are hereby appointed a Committee, and are or-
dered and instructed, at the expense of this Colony, to
take care of and provide for said officers and soldiers, with
their families at present, and see that they be treated with
humanity, kindness, and respect, according to their rank
and station, and encourage, assist, and advise said soldiers
in procuring such profitable labour and business as they
may be capable of, wherever said soldiers can find persons
willing to entertain and give them employment, until, by
the advice of the Continental Congress or otherwise, this
Assembly shall take further order concerning them, and
that the Commander-in-Chief make a proper return, under
his hand, to said Committee, of the corps that are under his
command.

Resolved by this Assembly, That the form for Commis-
sions for the Field-Officers in the service for the special
defence and safety of this Colony, shall be as follows, and
the Governour and Secretary are desired and directed to
sign the same :

'• Colony of Connecticut:

" Jonathan Trumbull, Esquire, Captain-General and
G overnour-in- Chief in and over His Majesty's Eng-
lish Colony in New-England in America,

" To Benjamin Hinman, Esquire, greeting :

" By virtue of the power and authority to me given, and
by the Royal Charter to the Governour and Company of
the said Colony, under the great seal of England, 1 do, by
these presents, reposing especial trust and confidence in
your loyalty, courage, and good conduct, constitute and ap-
point you, the said Benjamin Hinman, to be Colonel of the
Fourth Regiment of the inhabitants enlisted and assembled
for the special defence and safety of His Majesty's said
Colony. You are, therefore, to lead, conduct, order, and
exercise said Regiment in the service aforesaid, and to
keep them in good order and discipline, hereby command-
ing them to obey you as their Colonel, and yourself to
observe and follow such orders and instructions as you shall
from time to time receive from me or the Commander-in-
Chief of the said Colony for the time beiug, or other your
superiour officers, according to military rules and discipline,
pursuant to the trust reposed in you.

" Given under my hand and the publick seal of the said

Colony at , the first day of May, in the

fifteenth year of the reign of His Majesty King George the
Third, Anno Domini 1775."

Resolved, further, That the form for Warrants for the
Officers on the Staff be as follows, and the Governour is
directed to sign the same :

" Jonathan Trumbull, Esquire, Governour and Com-
mander-in-Chief of His Majesty's Colony of Connect-
icut in New-England, in America,

" To Rev. Cotton Mather Smith, greeting :

" Reposing especial trust and confidence in your loyalty,
piety, ability, integrity, and good conduct, I do hereby ap-
point you, the said Cotton Mather Smith, Chaplain of the
Fourth Regiment of the inhabitants enlisted and assem-
bled for the special defence and safety of His Majesty's
said Colony ; and do hereby authorize and empower you
to exercise the several acts and duties of your office and
station as Chaplain of the said Regiment, which you are
faithfully to perform in a due and religious discharge there-
of, according to the important trust reposed in you, for
which this is your warrant.

" Given under my hand and seal at arms, in . . ,
in the Colony aforesaid, this twentieth day of May, in the
fifteenth year of the reign of His Majesty King George the
Third, Anno Domini 1775."

" Jonathan Trumbull, Esquire, Governour and Com-
mander-in-Chief in and over His Majesty's English
Colony of Connecticut in New-Em. land, in Ame-
rica,

"To Lemuel Wheeler, Gentleman, greeting:

" I do, by these presents, resposing especial confidence
in your loyalty, skill, and good conduct, appoint you, the
said Lemuel Wheeler, to be Physician and Surgeon in the
Fourth Regiment of inhabitants enlisted and assembled for
the special defence and safety of His Majesty's said Colony ;
and I do hereby authorize and empower you to exercise
your said office in a due discharge of the duties thereof,
which you are carefully and diligently to attend as a Phy-
sician as aforesaid, according to the trust reposed in you,
for which this is your sufficient warrant.

" Given under my hand and seal at arms, at . . ■ ,
in said Colony, the twentieth day of May, 1775. in the
fifteenth year of His Majesty's reign."

" Colony of Connecticut:

" Jonathan Trumbull, Esquire, Governour and Com-
mander-in-Chief in and over His Majesty's Colony of
Connecticut in New-England, in America,

"To , Gentleman, greeting:

" I do, by these presents, reposing especial trust and con-
fidence in your loyalty, fidelity, and good conduct, consti-
tute and appoint you, the said , to be

Commissary in the . . . Regiment of the inhabitants
enlisted and assembled for the special defence and safety
of His Majesty's said Colony; and you having first given
bond,, with sufficient surety for a faithful discharge of your
trust, I do authorize and empower you to exercise your
said office in a due performance of the duties thereof in the
Regiment aforesaid, keeping proper accounts, and the same
render on oath when required, according to the trust repos-
ed in you, for which this is a sufficient warrant.

" Given under my hand and seal at arms, in ... ,
the . . day of May, A. D. 1775, in the fifteenth year
of His Majesty's reign."

Resolved by this Assembly, That the Committee of the
Pay-Table be directed to give orders on the Treasurer of
this Colony for payment to all such persons who have ac-
tually expended moneys or given their written obligations
therefor, more than to the amount of what is equitably due
to them for their personal service in obtaining possession of
Ticonderoga and Crown Point, upon their exhibiting their
accounts, and having them liquidated and approved by said
Committee; and also, that said Committee be, and they
are hereby further directed to receive the accounts of the
cost and expenses, both of men and provisions, incurred in
taking and securing said Fortresses, by any inhabitants of
this Colony, or any others by them engaged and employed,
digest the same into proper form, and lay the same before
this or some future Assembly, for their equitable considera-
tion and allowance.

Resolved by this Assembly, That all accounts of dis-
bursements made by order or direction of this Assembly
relative to the present extraordinary emergencies of Gov-
ernment, be laid before the Pay-Table Committee already
appointed, to be by them examined, settled, and adjusted ;
and said Committee are hereby directed to draw all need-
ful orders on the Treasurer for the payment thereof.

Resolved by this Assembly, That each non-commissioned
officer and soldier belonging to any military company or
trainband in this Colony, shall be paid out of the Colony
Treasury Six Pence for each half day he shall attend and
perform military exercises, and Twelve Pence for each day
he shall attend and perform regimental exercise, in obe-
dience to a law of this Colony passed at the session of the
General Assembly in October last ; and that the Clerk of
each of said Companies shall make out duplicate and at-
tested Rolls of such non-commissioned officers and soldiers
as performed military exercises as aforesaid, and deliver the
same to the Captain, or, in his absence, to the chief officer
of such company whereof he is Clerk, and said Captain
or chief officer shall present said Roll to two assistants, or
two Justices of the Peace, to be by them examined and
approved, which Rolls, when approved, shall, by such au-
thority, be noted thereon accordingly, one of which Rolls
shall be delivered to such officer, and the other held by said

573

CONNECTICUT ASSEMBLY, MAY, 1775.

574

authority ; and thereupon said authority shall draw an
order on the Treasurer of this Colony, payable to such Cap-
tain or chief officer, who shall receive the money due them
of the Treasurer, and pay the same to each non-commis-
sioned officer and soldier as shall be due according to said
Roll.

Resolved by this Assembly, That Jabez Hamlin, Mat-
thew Talcott, and Titus Hosmer, Esquires, be and they
are hereby appointed a Committee to provide such stores of
Lead as they shall judge necessary for the use of this Col-
ony : and that said Committee may be effectually able to
execute their said trust, they are authorized and directed,
on behalf of this Colony, to contract for, purchase, or take
the Lead Ore that is or may be raised out of the Lead
.Mines in Middletown, and cause any and greater quantities
of Ore to be dug out of said mine, and by the best and
most prudent ways and means they can, to procure said
Ore to be refined and fitted for the use of this Colony, and
to erect any furnace or building necessary for that purpose ;
and that said Committee have power and authority to take
and receive out of the Colony Treasury from time to time,
any sum or sums of money that shall be found necessary
to enable them to procure said Lead, or purchase said Lead
Ore, and smelt, refine, and separate the lead therefrom,
not exceeding the sum of Four Hundred Pounds, lawful
money, in the whole ; and the Colony Treasurer is ordered
to pay and advance the said sum of money to the said
Committee, or their order, accordingly, always provided
that the owner or owners of said mine or ore shall have
reasonable allowance and be duly compensated for any loss,
hurt, or damage, that he or they may or shall sustain or
suffer by reason of the premises.

Resolved by this Assembly, That the Commander-in-
Chief for the time being, of the Forces raised in this Col-
ony, at their respective destinations, be authorized and
empowered, and they are hereby empowered to procure a
suitable Armourer or Armourers to repair any Fire-Arms
that may be damaged in the service, as occasion may call
for, and lay the account thereof before the Committee of the
Pay-Table, who are hereby directed to draw orders on the
Treasurer for the payment thereof.

Resolved by this Assembly, That the Committee of the
Pay-Table be directed to repair the Arms belonging to this
Colony in the hands of the Treasurer, and deliver out as
many of them as may be wanted, to the inhabitants enlist-
ed for the special defence of this Colony, and have them
appraised, and take proper receipts therefor.

Resolved by this Assembly, That Samuel Mott, Esquire,
be and he is hereby appointed Engineer, forthwith to repair
to Ticonderoga and Crown Point, to assist and act in said
capacity, and to take rank as a Lieutenant-Colonel among
the Troops raised for the defence of this Colony.

Resolved by this Assembly, That Thaddeus Burr, Esq.,
of Fairfield, and Charles Church Chandler, Esq., of Wood-
stock, be a Committee to engage and employ, at the pub-
lick expense of this Colony, two News-Carriers to perform
regular stages from Fairfield to Woodstock, and from
Woodstock to Fairfield, passing through the Towns of
Windham and Lebanon, in such manner that they severally
arrive in Hartford every Saturday ; and that they forward
all proper intelligence to Fairfield and Woodstock, with
all convenient speed ; also, that Gurdon Saltonstall, Esq.,
of New-London, be a Committee to engage and employ
two News-Carriers at the expense of the Colony, to per-
form regular stages from Woodstock to New-Haven, on
the Fairfield stage, and from New-Haven to Woodstock,
in such manner that they severally arrive in New-London
every Saturday ; and that they forward all proper intelli-
gence each way every Monday morning, with all conve-
nient despatch ; and that Thaddeus Burr, Esquire, of
Fairfield, Charles Church Chandler, Esquire, of Wood-
stock, and Gurdon Saltonstall, Esq., of Neiv-London, be
a Committee to forward, at the publick expense of this
Colony, all such extraordinary and important intelligence
which shall be received from time to time at either place,
as they shall judge proper and necessary ; the aforesaid
regulations to continue in force until the rising of the As-
sembly in October next, and no longer.

This Assembly do appoint the Honourable Matthew
Griswold, Esquire, and the Honourable Eliphalet Dyer,
Jabez Huntington, and Samuel Huntington, Esquires. Wil-

liam Williams, Nathaniel Wales, Junior, Jedediah Eblcr-
kin, Joshua If est, and Benjamin Huntington, Esquires, a
Committee to assist his Honour the Governour when the
Assembly is not sitting, to order and direct the marches
and stations of the inhabitants enlisted and assembled for
the special defence of the Colony, or any part or parts of
them, as they shall judge necessary, and to give orders from
time to time for furnishing and employing said inhabitants
so enlisted with every matter and tiling that may be need-
ful to render the defence of the Colony effectual.

Resolved by this Assembly, That the Commissions or-
dered by the Special Assembly in April last, to the respec-
tive Officers appointed to enlist men for the defence of the
Colony, shall be dated May 1, 1775, and the Secretary
ordered to fill them up accordingly.

Resolved by this Assembly, That the Warrants to the
Staff' Officers, viz: Chaplain, Surgeon, and Surgeon's
Mates for each Regiment enlisted and formed for the spe-
cial defence and safety of this Colony, shall be dated the
20th day of May, 1775, and his Honour the Governour is
directed to fill the same accordingly.

This Assembly grants to Major-General Wooster the
sum of Four Pounds per month, to assist and enable him
to provide a proper Secretary for the necessary service of
such Department.

This Assembly grants to Brigadier Generals Spencer and
Putnam, respectively, as they shall find necessary, the sum
of Four Pounds per month, to assist and enable them to
provide proper Secretaries for the necessary service of their
respective Departments.

Resolved by this Assembly, That the Commissaries ap-
pointed by this Assembly for supplying the inhabitants
raised for the defence of the Colony, shall be allowed one
and a half per cent, commission on all supplies purchased
and paid for by order of the Assembly.

Resolved by this Assembly, That Jabez Hamlin and
Jesse Root, Esquires, be added to, and they are hereby
appointed of the Committee to sign the Bills of Publick
Credit on this Colony, ordered to be emitted by the Gen-
eral Assembly holden at this place by special order of his
Honour the Governour, on the 26th day of April last, any
three of said Committee to execute the trust aforesaid.

Resolved by this Assembly, That five hundred pounds
of Powder be immediately borrowed by the Committee of
the Pay-Table, from the Town stocks of the adjacent
Towns, and put into the hands of Colonel James Easton,
to be transported with the utmost expedition to Crown
Point and Ticonderoga, to be there used for the present
and immediate defence of those Posts, till the Resolves of
the Continental Congress may be carried into execution ;
and that an order be drawn by the Committee of Pay-Table
on the Colony Treasurer, in favour of said Colonel Easton,
for Two Hundred Pounds, lawful money, to be improved
by him in defraying the expenses of transporting said Pow-
der and other necessary purposes, for the immediate support
and security of said Fortresses, rendering his account
therefor.

Resolved by this Assembly, That the pay of the Adju-
tants in the Forces assembled for the defence of this Col-
ony shall be the sum of Six Pounds per month ; and that
such Adjutants shall sustain and receive pay for that office
only ; and it is further resolved that the pay of the First
Lieutenants of the Colonels' Companies in each Regiment,
respectively, shall be Six Pounds per month.

This Assembly do appoint David Johnson, Junior, Sec-
ond Lieutenant in the Second Company in the Fourth
Regiment, to be enlisted and assembled for the special de-
fence of this Colony, in the room of David Bissell, super-
seded.

This Assembly do appoint Major Jabez Thompson to be
Lieutenant-Colonel of the Second Regiment of Militia in
this Colony, in the room of Lieutenant-Colonel Gould, re-
signed.

Captain William Douglass, Major of the Second Regi-
ment, in room of Major Thompson, promoted.

Gold Selleck Silliman, Esq., to be Colonel of the Fourth
Regiment, in room of Colonel , resigned.

Captain Ichabod Lewis to be Lieutenant-Colonel of the
Fourth Regiment, in the room of Gold Selleck Silliman.
Esq., promoted.

575

CONNECTICUT ASSEMBLY, MAY, 1775.

576

Thomas Belding, Esq., to be Lieutenant-Colonel of the
Sixth Regiment, in the room of Matthew Tidcott, Esq.,
resigned.
** John Chester, Esq., to be Major of the Sixth Regiment,
in the room of Thomas Beiding, Esq., promoted.

John Mead, Esq., to be Lieutenant-Colonel of the Ninth
Regiment, in the room of Variil Watirliury, resigned.

Stephen II. John, Esq., to be Major of the Ninth Regi-
ment, in room of John Mead, Esq., promoted.

William Williams, Esq., to be Colonel of the Twelfth
Regiment, in room of Joseph Spencer, Esq., resigned.

lit nri/ Champion. Esq., to be Lieutenant-Colonel of the
Twelfth Regiment, in room of Itilliam Williams, Esq.,
resigned.

Dyer Throop, Esq., to be Majorof the Twelfth Regiment.

Matthew Talcott, Esq., to be Colonel of the Twenty-
Third Regiment.

Captain Comfort Sage to be Lieutenant-Colonel of the
Twenty-Third Regiment.

Captain John Penfield to be Major of the Twenty -Third
Regiment.

Zebulon Butler, Esq., to be Colonel of the Twenty-
Fourth Regiment.

Nathan Denison, Esq., to be Lieutenant-Colonel of the
Twenty-Fourth Regiment.

William Judd, Esq., to be Major of the Twenty -Fourth
Regiment.

Oliver Smith, Esq., to be Major of the Eighth Regi-
ment, in room of Major Charles Phelps, Esq., resigned.

Upon the Memorial of John Sutliff, Junior, and others,
Inhabitants of the Society of Norlhlmry, in Waterbury,
showing to this Assembly that they live within the limits of
the West Military Company or Trainband, in said Society,
and that the major part of said Company, both Officers and
Soldiers, are totally disaffected to the general cause of
American liberty, and that they altogether refuse to adopt
the measures advised by the Continental Congress, but
publickly speak and act in direct opposition thereto:

Upon which a Committee, viz : Thomas Matthews and
Timothy Judd, Esquires, were appointed, who have made
their Report to this Assembly, and the same being also
accepted :

Besolved by this Assembly, That the Captain and En-
sign of said West Military Company or Trainband, in the
Society of Northbury, in said Waterbury, be and they are
hereby cashiered and dismissed from their respective mili-
tary offices ; and the Colonel of the Regiment said Com-
pany is part of is hereby directed to lead said Company to
the choice of a Captain and an Ensign, and other needful
officers, and make return to this Assembly.

Upon the Memorial of Nathaniel Niles, of Nortvich, in
the County of New-London, shewing to this Assembly that
it is of importance that the manufacturing of Iron Wire, upon
which the Woollen and Cotton Manufactories so greatly
depend, should be set up and carried on with the greatest
expedition, which the Memorialist is willing to undertake
and pursue, upon proper encouragement, and hath made
some progress therein, &c, as per Memorial on file :

Resolved by this Assembly, That Jabez Huntington,
Samuel Huntington, and Elijah Backus, Esquires, all of
Norwich, be and they are hereby appointed a Committee
to examine into the matters contained in said Memorial,
and the expenses of erecting proper works for the manu-
facturing of Iron Wire ; and what encouragement may be
properly given the Memorialist therefor; and if said Com-
mittee, upon due examination, shall judge it reasonable and
expedient, they are hereby empowered to draw their order
on the Colony Treasurer for any sum not exceeding Three
Hundred Pounds to be paid by said Treasurer, who is
hereby directed to pay the same to the Memorialist, upon
his giving good security to the acceptance of said Commit-
tee, that said sum shall be improved solely for the setting
up and carrying on said Manufactory ; and that the princi-
pal sum so received shall be repaid at the expiration of four
years after received, without any interest thereon.

Resolved by this Assembly, That the Secretary of this
Colony be directed to send to the Towns of Torrington
and New-Hartford, to return to this Assembly, in October
next, the whole of their Lists, the exemption that hath
been granted to the Society of Torringford notwithstand-

ing ; and also to all the rest of the Towns in this Colony
that are incorporated, that have not yet sent in their Lists.
This Assembly do appoint Elisha Sheldon, Esq.. Colo-
nel Samuel It'ytli/s, Mr Ezra Selden, Mr. William Jlau-
ley, Mr. Jonathan Trumbull, Junior, and Major Samuel
Canjicld, to audit and adjust the Colony Accounts with John
Lawrence, Esq., the present Treasurer of this Colony.

Whereas the situation of publick affairs are such at pre-
sent, that the attention of the publick is called off from
private matters to things of greater importance; therefore,

Resolved, That the consideration of all private business
of a civil and disputable nature, be referred over to the ses-
sion of this Assembly in October next.

This Assembly grants to his Honour Governour Trum-
bull, the sum of One Hundred and Fifty Founds, for the
first half of his salary the current year.

This Assembly grants to the Honourable Deputy Gov-
ernour Griswold the sum of Fifty Pounds, for the first half
of his salary the current year.

This Assembly grants to John Lawrence, Esq., the sum
of One Hundred and Eighty Pounds, for his salary the
year past as Treasurer of this Colony.

This Assembly grants to George Wyllys, Esq., Secretary
of this Colony, the sum of Twenty Pounds, for his salary
the year past.

This Assembly is adjourned by Proclamation, &c, until
the Governour shall see cause to call it to meet together
again. Test: George Wyllys, Secretary.

In the Lower House :

Mr. Hosmer, Colonel Wolcott, Colonel Elderldn, and
Mr. Sturgess, are appointed a Committee to join the Com-
mittee from the Honourable Upper House, to consider what
Intelligence, Papers, and Documents are material and ne-
cessary to be transmitted and communicated to the Conti-
nental Congress at Philadelphia ; and likewise take into
their consideration what matters and things relative to the
late hostile transactions, it is expedient to make publick,
and report make. Test : Richard Law, Clerk.

In the Upper House :

Jabez Hamlin, Esquire, is appointed to join the Com-
mittee of the Lower House in the affair above-mentioned.
Test: George Wyllys, Secretary.

To the Honourable the General Assembly now sitting in
Hartford.

We, your Honours' Committee appointed to consider
what Intelligence, Papers, and Documents are material and
necessary to be transmitted and communicated to the Con-
tinental Congress now sitting at Philadelphia ; and likewise
what matters and things relative to the late hostile transac-
tions it is expedient to make publick, beg leave to report
our opinion :

First. That it is material and necessary that copies of
the Letter wrote by his Honour the Governour to General
Gage, at the request and in behalf of the Assembly, and
of General Gage's answer to said Letter, and of his Nar-
rative of the proceedings of the Troops on the 18th and
19th of April last, accompanied with a Letter from his
Honour the Governour, should be prepared and transmitted
to Colonel Eliphalet Dyer, Roger Sherman, and Silas
Deanc, Esquires, Delegates from this Colony to the Con-
tinental Congress, to be made use of at their discretion ; the
Narrative from the Provincial Congress of Massachusetts-
Bay, and the Depositions taken by and received from them,
being, as we are well informed, already sent to said Con-
tinental Congress, we are of opinion it is not necessary to
forward from hence.

Secondly. That a concise and true Narration of the late
hostile attack made by the Troops under the command of
General Gage upon the inhabitants of the Province of the
Massachusetts-Bay, with the Depositions to support and
confirm the same, should be prepared for the press, and be
printed and dispersed through this Colony ; and we farther
beg leave to submit it to the consideration of the As-
sembly, whether it would not answer some good purpose,
if the Narrative of said transactions received from General
Gage, were printed and published with the Narrative and
proofs aforesaid. Per order: J.Hamlin.

577

CORRESPONDENCE, PROCEEDINGS, &c, MAY, 1775.

578

EXTRACT OF A LETTER FROM LONDON TO A GENTLEMAN
IN PHILADELPHIA.

London, May 12, 1775.

1 did not, until this day, receive your kind favour of
March 17, which confirmed the agreeable intelligence of
the decisive victory of the sons of liberty in Nciv-YorJc,
over the pitiful and mercenary supporters of despotism.

The Remonstrance of their Assembly to the House of
Commons, Mr. Burke, the agent, is to present next Mon-
day, the 15th instant. I fancy you may take it for granted,
the Ministry are determined it shall not be received ; but if
their minds should change before that time, it will be
received only to be condemned, by ordering it to lay on the
table, which is almost as slighting a mode of procedure as
refusing to receive it. Thus are applications treated, when
made in the very manner the Ministers themselves have
pointed out. In short, nothing will please, but an absolute
and total submission, at the shrine of despotism, of the lives,
liberties, and property, of yourselves and posterity to end-
less generations.

Whether these things are not worthy of contending for,
even unto death, I leave you to judge, who may enjoy
the blessings of them, or feel the curse of wanting them
forever. The advantages of commerce are now, for the
first time in this Kingdom, held at naught by our wick-
ed Ministers ; as they suppose commerce enlarges the
ideas of men in general, and gives more aversion to tyran-
ny than confined employment ; therefore, the trade of poor
old England is to be buried in the same grave with Ame-
rican liberty.

The merchants and manufacturers you well know, how-
ever, before this, have bestirred themselves in the American
cause ; but as they did not really feel, their exertions were
not earnest enough to command success. For my own
part, I am convinced this business can never be settled
without bloodshed, unless you are tame enough to give up
every thing that can be held dear in this world, viz : civil
and religious liberty, to absolute tyranny ; because I know
the Ministers, or, in plain words, their master, Lord Bute,
has ordained it shall be. In my mind, there should not be
one moment's hesitation about the choice : we can die but
once, and never on a better occasion than in the cause of
God, and the rights of mankind. The friends of liberty
in this Country, who are really numerous, look to you
with wonderful attention. They expect much good from
your virtue ; and, in my judgment, when the first engage-
ment happens in America, a flame will burst out here
that must overwhelm the contrivers of all this mischief.
The eyes of all Europe are upon you; and I believe we
should have had a foreign war before this, but France and
Spain wait to see the business first fairly begun in Ame-
rica. However, this day the foreign mail brings certain
intelligence of twelve Spanish Men-of-War arriving at
Cadiz from the Mediterranean, which has occasioned
much speculation among the politicians, and horrible gri-
maces among the ministerial gentry. I am no enthusiast ;
but still I am convinced that this American business is in
the hand of Providence, to make you a great and wonderful
Empire. Every circumstance is in your favour, and I have
no doubt of your sagacity and virtue in taking advantage
thereof.

We suppose, by this time, all the Troops for Boston
have left Ireland — seven Regiments of Infantry and one
of Horse ; the Foot may be about three thousand effec-
tive men, and the Horse from two to four hundred. The
Cavalry, if they arrive (for probably many will die on the
passage) cannot be fit for service this summer. Next week
Sir George Savile in the House of Commons, and Lord
Camden in the House of Lords, are each of them to pre-
sent a Petition from the inhabitants of Quebeck, praying
for the repeal of the Quebeck Government Act, when
each of them, in their several Houses, will make a motion
lor that purpose.

From what knowledge I have of America, it appears to
me an absolute certainty that the ministerial plan of slavery
that is formed for you can never succeed, if you continue
unanimous, and determine to resist, even unto death, rather
than resign your liberties. Depend on your own efforts,
and leave the issue to Providence, which, as the guardians
of virtue, will certainly make your efforts successful.

Fourth Series. — Vol. ii.

RICHMOND COUNTY (VIRGINIA) COMMITTEE.

At a Committee elected for the County of Richmond.
meeting by an adjournment from the 10th of this instant,
at the Court-House of this County, on the 12th of May,
1775, present London Carter, Esquire, Chairman, and a
very full bench of the Members :

The Committee appointed on the 10th instant, having
brought in their Report, according to the order of that day,
the same was received and read, and is as follows:

Your Committee, taking into consideration, according to
order, the late Address of his Excellency the Governour
to the Council, on the 2d of this instant, and the Procla-
mation issued in consequence of their advice on the 3d
instant, think themselves indispensably bound to their con-
stituents to vindicate them from the groundless aspersions,
and very unjust accusations with which a part of this
community are therein charged, and which are only calcu-
lated to induce a belief that the people of this Country are
meditating a plan to change the present form of Govern-
ment. They have, therefore,

Resolved, 1st. That the late commotions in some parts
of this Country, alluded to in the Address and Proclama-
tion, arose from a full conviction of a cruel and determined
plan of Administration to enslave these Colonies, which
has been manifested in various instances, and of which the
late proceedings of his Excellency, in removing the Pow-
der from the Magazine, with the several circumstances
attending the same, appear evidently to be a part.

2d. That our repeated and dutiful applications for
redress of grievances, our patient enduran.ee under a long
course of irritating and oppressive measures, and our most
solemn declarations " that our utmost wish was a restitu-
tion of the rights which we enjoyed until the year 1763,"
are convincing proofs of our attachment to the Constitu-
tion, our loyalty to our Sovereign, and our love of order.

3d. That the whole of his Excellency's conduct respect-
ing the unhappy disputes between the Colonies and the
British Ministry, especially the groundless and injurious
charges alleged against the people of this Colony, in his
Address to the Council, and in his Proclamation of the
3d of this instant, (May,) are unjustifiable and inimical, and
therefore he has justly forfeited the confidence of the peo-
ple of this Colony.

4th. That the Members of His Majesty's Council who
advised the above-mentioned Proclamation, acted incon-
sistently with that wisdom, justice, and generosity which
ought to characterize them as legislators, judges, and natives
of the most distinguished in the Colony ; and we do declare,
that we find ourselves deeply affected that those who should
be mediators between the executive power and the peo-
ple, should concur in fixing a stigma on their fellow-sub-
jects, so unjust and so undeserved.

5th. That in order to remove these atrocious aspersions,
and to convince the world of our firm attachment to the
Constitution as it existed before the year 1763, we hereby
solemnly pledge ourselves to support it at the hazard of
our lives and fortunes.

Every Resolve contained in the foregoing being distinctly
read, and separately considered, was passed nemine conlra-
dicente.

Ordered, That these proceedings of this, day, as soon
as may be convenient, be transmitted to the Press for the
satisfaction of the publick.

William Smith, Clerk pro tern.

PROCLAMATION BY LORD DUNMORE.

By His Excellency the Right Honourable John Earl of
Dunmore, His Majesty's Lieutenant and Governour-
General of the Colony and Dominion of Virginia, and
Vice- Admiral of the same :

A Proclamation.
Virginia, to wit :

Whereas the General Assembly stands prorogued to the
first Thursday in September next, but it is judged expe-
dient and necessary that they should be sooner convened :
I have therefore thought proper, by this Proclamation, in
His Majesty's name, to appoint the first Thursday in the
next month for that purpose ; at which time their attend-

37

579

CORRESPONDENCE, PROCEEDINGS, &c, MAY, 1775.

5S0

ance is accordingly required at the Capitol, in the City of
Ji'il/iamsburgh, for the despatch of publick business.

Given under my hand and the seal of the Colony, at
Williamsburgh aforesaid, this 12th day of May, in the fif-
teenth year of His Majesty's reign. Dunmore.
God save the King.

TO THE PUBLICK.

Whereas the following false reports have been indus-
triously propagated, with the malicious design of injuring
my character with the publick, viz: that I had insulted
the Delegates of the present Congress at Bristol, and
declared that they were an unlawful body of men, and
that the Magistrates ought to disperse them ;" and " that I
have wrote letters to the Ministry inimical to America :"
Now in justice to my own reputation, and that the good
people of this Province may not be deceived by such
groundless falsehoods, I do declare that these reports are
malicious and without the least foundation ; and that how-
ever easy it might have been to establish a correspon-
dence with Administration, was I capable of entertaining a
thought inimical to the Country where all I hold dear and
valuable is fixed, and where 1 am determined lo spend the
remainder of my life, yet I have, neither directly nor indi-
rectly any such correspondence, nor ever wrote a sentiment
to any man in Great Britain injurious to the rights and
freedom of America, nor ever recommended any measure
whatever to be pursued in respect to the present dispute
between the two Countries. And I do hereby call on the
author or authors of these false reports to make good their
malicious charges, or to take that blame to themselves which
such malevolence deserves.

All that I have to request of my countrymen on this or
the like occasions is, that they will deal with so much can-
dour and justice towards me as to discredit any malevolent
reports, until the authors shall exhibit some proof in sup-
port of their charges : and this I trust no good man will
think unreasonable, as he cannot but be aware that the
most innocent may be condemned, unless this great rule of
justice be observed. Joseph Galloway.

Trevose, Pennsylvania, May 12, 1775.

and in consequence thereof, the Provincial Congress have
made a Resolution, the purport of which is nearly similar
to the above agreement, in confidence that said agreement
would be punctually adhered to ; but by sad experience we
find the inhabitants of Boston are not permitted to leave
the Town according to the agreement, and nothing to pre-
vent, that we know of, but the cruel exertion of despotick
power : Therefore it is humbly submitted to the Committee
of Safety, whether it is not advisable to suspend the afore-
said Resolution of Congress until they are fully satisfied
the above agreement is punctually fulfilled, and in the mean
time lo apprehend and seize all Crown officers and known
enemies to the liberties of the Colonies, to be liberated
when it may he judged reasonable by the Congress ; and
also to recommend the like mode of conduct to our sister
Colonies. S. Osgood, Major of Brigade,

May 12, 1775.

Bergen County, New-Jersey, Committee Chamber,

May 12, 1775.

Resolved, That John Fell, Esquire, Theunis Dey,
Esquire, Thomas Brown, Esquire, Peter Zabriskie, Esq.,
John Demurest, Esquire, Mr. Samuel Berry, Mr. Corne-
lius Van Vorst, Mr. Isaac Noble, Mr. Aarent J. Schuy-
ler, Mr. Jacob Terhune, Doctor Abraham Van Boskirk,
John Van Boskirk, Esquire, Mr. Gabriel Ogden, Mr.
Jost Zabriskie, and Mr. Gabriel Van Orden, be a Stand-
ing Committee of Correspondence for this County, and
that any five of them, of which the President or Vice
President to be one, have power to act.

Ordered, That a copy of the above Resolve be printed
in the New- York Newspapers.

By order of the Committee: John Fell, Chairman.

At a meeting of the Committee of Correspondence for
Bergen County, New- Jersey, May 12, 1775 :

Present: John Fell, Theunis Dey, Thomas Brown,
John Demarest, Esquires, Messrs. Cornelius Van Vorst,
Isaac Noble, Jacob Terhune, Doctor Abraham Van Bos-
kirk, JohnVan Boskirk, Esquire, Messrs. Gabriel Ogden,
Jost Zabriskie, and Gabriel Van Orden :

John Demarest, Esquire, chosen President ; Mr. Gabriel
Van Orden, chosen Vice-President.

Ordered, That a copy of the above proceedings be
published in the New- York Newspapers.

By order of the Committee of Correspondence :

John Demakest, President.

TO THE MASSACHUSETTS COMMITTEE OF SAFETY.

Whereas an agreement has been made between General
Gage and the inhabitants of the Town of Boston, for the
removal of the persons and effects of such of the inhabi-
tants of the Town of Boston as may be so disposed, (ex-
cepting their fire-arms and ammunition,) into the country,

PETITION OF JOHN SAWYER AND OTHERS TO THE MASSA-
CHUSETTS CONGRESS.

To the Honourable Congress now sitting at Watertown,
the humble Petition of us the subscribers, lohose names
are underwritten, humbly sheweth, &fc.

Whereas your petitioners have lately settled in the east-
ern parts, and are in great distress for want of provisons and
ammunition, by reason of the lumber failing of sale, and
the great drought last summer, that our crops being cut
short, and being in great distress for fear of the enemy, as
we have news from Cooper shewing that the Indians on the
Cape are building forty Indian canoes, and it is expected
that the Governour of Halifax has hired the Indians to
come along shore and kill us and our families, and take our
creatures, and we have nothing to defend ourselves with but
our hands, as there is no powder of any value among us,
(we also fear the tenders coming to get our cattle :)

Your humble petitioners therefore beg your assistance,
and grant us some relief, and send us some corn and other
necessaries of life, and some powder, balls, flints, and a
few small arms, that we may have wherewithal to defend
ourselves and fight for our lives and liberties, which we pray
God to give us strength and courage, as long as we have
life, in the defence of our Country, provided your Honours
should order us any support.

We, your petitioners, bind ourselves to pay forthwith
the interest and charges in sending, as soon as lumber will
have any sale, and trading revive.

We, your petitioners, beg your serious consideration, and
as in duty bound we shall ever pray.

John Sawyer,
Jacob Trussel,
James Dodge,
Samuel Watson,
Abner Dodge,
Nehemiah Allen,
John Black,
Moses Black,
Samuel Hale,
Joshua Trussel,
William Obee,
Jonathan Clay,
Ebenezer Hinkley,

Andrew Herrick,
Shadrach Watson,
William Reed,
Robert Dougherty,
Daniel Black,
John Herrick,
James Fly,
Samuel Cousons,
Samuel Herrick,
Joseph Bapson,
Stephen Giilchell,
Cornelius Morgan,

Samuel Robset,
Joshua Herrick,
Enoch Blasdel,
Moses Eaton,
Ebenezer Eaton,
Nathaniel Allen,
Benjamin York,
George Goodwin,
Ebenezer Herrick,
John Dodge,
John Carter,
James Carter.

There being in the Town in number that are able to bear
arms seventy, but living at a great distance, and not having
time to assemble at this time, the vessel just ready to sail,
we would beg for the whole.

May 12, 1775.

to the president of the committee of safety.

Amesbury, May 12, 1775.

Sir : Mr. John Currier has enlisted about forty soldiers,
who are ready to march, provided he may be their Cap-
tain, (and upon this condition they enlisted,) and we can
recommend him to be a person of good character, and con-
ducted very well in the last war, and that he has been
steady and faithful in the affairs of the Town he has been
chosen to serve in ; and we desire that he may be enlisted
to the office that his soldiers expected him to have ; and
further, we expect that he will shortly enlist more men to
fill his Company. And as we lately received a letter from
the Congress, recommending to us to be assisting and en-
couraging the enlisting of soldiers, we have done our

581

CORRESPONDENCE, PROCEEDINGS, fee, MAY, 1775.

582

endeavours in promoting and encouraging the same, and

are still ready to do all in our power to forward all necessaries

recommended to us.

Sir, we are your bumble and obedient servants,

Caleb Pilsbury, ? « , . c A i

T 0 >■ Selectmen of Amesbury.

JOSIAH SARGEANT, J J J

111 Committee of Supplies Chamber,
Watertown, May 12, 1775.

Gentlemen: The Congress having resolved that the
Army should be supplied with such goods, wares, and mer-
chandise as shall appear necessary by the Colony, and
not as has been by Sutlers, we have procured some articles
that are wanted, and sent them, with a copy of the Re-
solves, to one of the Deputies of the Commissary at Cam-
bridge, Mr. Browne ; but we think that it will be found
necessary to have Deputies for this business only, as it must
take up the whole time of one person to deliver goods to
two Regiments only, and keep good accounts against the
soldiers, more especially as the accounts must be exhibited
to the Captains, that they may deduct them on making up
the muster-roll. As the Commissary is now confined with
sickness to his chamber, we desire you to appoint a Deputy
for the particular business, that the goods procured by us
may be received by him, and immediately disposed of to
the soldiers, who are much in want thereof.

David Cheever,
One of the Committee of Supplies.

In Committee of Supplies Chamber, )
Watertown, May 13, J775. \

Sir: We shall be glad to know how the matter is cir-
cumstanced with respect to the Colony Arms which were
lent to the Scholars, that proper measures may be pursued
to get them in. Pray send a line by the bearer.

We are truly your friends, &tc, &.c.

David Cheever, per order.

To the Committee of Safety.

GENERAL THOMAS TO THE COMMITTEE OF SAFETY.

Roxbury, May 12, 1775.

Gentlemen : I find no establishment made by the Con-
gress for such officers as Adjutant and Quartermasters Gen-
eral, which officers are as necessary, in a large encampment,
as almost any whatever; and where any number of Regi-
ments are posted in camp, there cannot be a proper regu-
lation of duty without such. I should be glad to be ad-
vised whether I may be allowed to give any encouragement
to any suitable persons for such office, that they will receive
any reward in future if they will undertake it. And as I
understand there are a number of the Rules for the Mas-
sachusetts Army printed, and are now at Cambridge,
should be glad a number may be forwarded by the bearer
for the use of the Camp in Roxbury.

I am, gentlemen, with due respect, your most obedient
humble servant, Jno. Thomas.

To the Honourable the Committee of Safety.

JAMES CAVET TO ARTHUR ST. CLAIR AND OTHERS.

Pittsburgh, May 13, 1775.
Gentlemen : I am sorry that it is so much in my power
to doubt the Governour's attention to this unhappy Coun-
try. We have not had, since our confinement, the least
account from him, and I think it is beyond a doubt he got
our packet. Our express is returned, and says he gave the
letters to Doctor Plunkei at Susquehannah, who would
certainly send them. Our situation, and that of the well
affected inhabitants of this place, is become almost in-
tolerable; it is impossible for any person to conceive the
cruel mode of proceedings at this place, unless those who
are unhappy enough to be eye-witnesses thereof. Mr.
Smith, in particular, will, (if not by some means prevent-
ed,) in a short time be absolutely ruined. Mr. Hanna
and myself will, at this court, be confined in the guard-
room of Fort Dunmore, if we don't give bail, and God
knows whether it will be in our power so to do, for we are
informed, by some of our friends, that none other will be
acceptable but those who will come into open court and

swear they are worth whatever sum is in the recognizance,
and no doubt it will be an enormous sum. Mr. Smith was
this day taken with a writ of one hundred thousand
Pounds damages. But I need not descend into particulars ;
every part of their conduct appears that they not only want
the jurisdiction of this quarter, but also to rob every man of
his property.

And, gentlemen, it is by your friends here thought ad-
visable that the Sheriff, with a party of fifty men, or there-
abouts, should come up and take us who are in confine-
ment, and also as many of these rascals as possible, as there
will be no strength to oppose you, there being but eighteen
men in the Fort. It is surprising what a pusillanimous
temper must prevail amongst the people in general to suffer
the peace and welfare of a whole County to be destroyed
by such a handful of villains. But let the people be called
upon by the Sheriff, and certainly they will not refuse to
come. If such a step be thought best, it ought to be
managed with secrecy and despatch. Pray send off an
express by Tuesday night to us with advice, for if we are
not taken off we must give bail, if it can be had, and the
thoughts of so doing is no small mortification after hanging
out so long. I have no time to say any more, but ac-
knowledge myself your humble servant,

James Cavet.
To Arthur St. Clair, John Carnaghan, William Lochey,

Esquires, and all our brethren inclusive.

P. S. I must beg your pardon and patience also for
writing so long an epistle, but I had almost forgot to ac-
knowledge the receipt of your favour of the 9th, and also
to inform you that Mr. Scott is bound by the Sheriff to
appear here next court, and I suppose will share the same
fate of Hanna and myself.

DOCTOR ELEAZER WHEELOCK TO GOVERNOUR TRUMBULL.

Dartmouth College, May 13, 1775.

Much honoured and respected Sir: Your favour of
17th ultimo duly arrived. Mr. Dean is not yet returned ;
I am now daily expecting him, with one of my English
pupils, who has resided with the Tribe at St. Francis ever
since last August, to learn their language. I have no sus-
picion of any publick design of hostilities in any of the
Northern Tribes ; but we are lately alarmed with accounts
that several of our own people have been authorized by
General Gage to go to Canada and collect a party there
to join them in distressing us at a time which they shall
think favourable for their purpose. The bearer, Mr.
Smith, who is a tutor of this college, and a young gen-
tleman to be depended upon, can give you the account,
which I suppose you have likely already had, for substance,
from Esquire Curtis, of this place.

But we are many of us more alarmed by the rash, pre-
cipitant, and headlong conduct of a number among us who
have been honoured with His Majesty's commissions, civil
and military, but have of late openly and publickly given
them up, and that only upon this principle, viz : that His
Majesty has forfeited his Crown, and that all commissions
from him are therefore vacated of course ; and have ac-
cordingly appointed a set of officers of their own choosing,
and appear to be plunging themselves and their dependants
as far and as fast as they can into a state of anarchy. They
assume to themselves the right of treating their fellow men
in a rough and sovereign manner, seizing, stopping, con-
trolling, and examining strangers and others in such a hos-
tile manner as tends to inspire a general fear in all sorts ;
e. g., two of my scholars, a few days ago, were peace-
ably and inoffensively travelling from college home, when
they were, by a ruffian, stopped in the road, who presented
a gun cocked at their breasts, and swore by God they were
dead men if they did not immediately tell him who they
were, where they were going, and what their business was ;
and this without milder or other introduction to his inquiry.
And it is feared, if a speedy stop cannot be put to this
evil, murders, and frequent ones, too, will ensue; and that
they will prove themselves really to be what these Colo-
nies have been so injuriously charged with being, and bring
the fiercest rage of a Northern Army upon these infant
frontiers, and justify them in savage cruelties, prevent
any testimonial of our Governour in our favour, and draw-
away the strength of the Provinces below us from our de-

583

CORRESPONDENCE, PROCEEDINGS, kc, MAY, 1775.

584

fence, which he may have no occasion to do if we hehave
ourselves soberly, adhere firmly to our Constitution, though
at the same time, as individuals, are helping our brethren
as much as our feeble state will allow. And 1 would
humbly propose whether this case, as the evil seems to be
spread wide in part of this Province, and in the new coun-
tries adjoining in New- York Province, be not worthy to be
communicated for the consideration of the Continental Con-
gress, who can put a stop to it, if any can.

I also fear much evil from the unprovoked, harsh, cruel,
and worse than savage threats given out by some against
my Indian boys, which have already occasioned fear in
some of them ; and I fear, if it be not stopped, will produce
some unfavourable accounts from them to their friends ;
this evil I am constantly guarding against as much as pos-
sible.

I have lately received letters from my honoured patrons
in London, of February 17th, replete with expressions of
friendship to this institution, but with assurances that no
further publick aids are to be expected by me from that
side the water till this publick controversy between them
and us be amicably settled, which they suggest no present
grounds of encouragement to expect ; nor do they think
fit in their publick and united capacity to write a word of
politicks, but as private friends some of them express their
great friendship to the religious and civil liberties of Ame-
rica, and their apprehensions that if the sword should be
drawn in the controversy on this side the water, it will be
soon theirs also.

I would humbly propose to your Honour, and if you
shall think proper, to your honourable Assembly, whether —
considering the surprising progress of this institution under
the smiles of Heaven hitherto, and the fair prospect not
only of its great utility to the general and charitable design
of it, but also as it is, and likely may long be, an important
barrier against the present threatening mischiefs of a North-
ern enemy — it may not be thought worthy your charitable
recommendation of* it to the charity and benevolence of the
Continental Congress, to be by them recommended to the
favour and notice of the pious and charitable of these
Colonies. -

This may greatly serve the interests of this institution
in its present infant, feeble, and deserted state, and not only
so, but raise it higher in the esteem of the savage Tribes,
which are its first object, and enable me to increase its in-
fluence to the good purposes of preserving and increasing
that peace and friendship which at present subsists between
us and them, and seems to be of very great importance to
both. My printed Narrative may give you and other gen-
tlemen some short account of the progress and present
state of it, by which you may be able to judge for your-
selves of the propriety and expediency of what I here
propose. All which I do, with the greatest cheerfulness and
confidence, submit to your wise, prudent, and friendly de-
termination. I would not have any thing published or sent
abroad which I have hinted, so as to expose my friends at
home, who, I find, are cautious in that matter. I am, my
honoured and dear Sir, with much esteem and respect,
your Honour's most obedient and most humble servant,

Eleazer Wheelock.

EXTRACT OF A LETTER FROM THOMAS FRASER TO GEORGE
ERVING, IN^OSTON, DATED LONDON, MAY 13, 1775.

I thank you most heartily for the great trouble you have
given yourself in sending our house, as well as myself, so
particular an account of the state of your present unfortu-
nate Country. Sorry, very sorry am I to find so many
thousands of its inhabitants act as if they were infatuated,
and determined, as much as in them lays, that every thing
shall be in confusion. I have for many months flattered
myself there was no chance that any blood would be shed
on account of the present disagreeable contest. I still
hope the wide breach may be healed without proceeding
to such extremities, but really I have now my fears. How-
ever, trusting that an over-ruling Providence will order
every thing for the best, I will patiently wait the event. I
am sorry that your trade, as well as ours, is so much inter-
rupted ; when it will be otherwise I cannot say. Your
brig, the Harmony, lies in our river, and what is to be
done with her I cannot say ; on her arrival, our J. L. sent

his servant with a note to I^ord North, acquainting him
that the vessel was come, and that he was ready to wait
upon his Lordship. I am surprised he has not sent a line ;
it is probable he may have forgot it. Mr. Lane sends to
him again to-morrow. I am the more surprised he has not
desired him to come to his house, because he read your
letter with great attention, and expressed his uneasiness that
the friends of good order laboured under so many incon-
veniences, which he wished might be avoided in future.
You have before been informed of his Lordship saying he
was glad your brig was gone forward, because it gave him
an opportunity of well considering the application you have
made. From his silence, I should apprehend he doth not
mean the scheme should be put in execution. He hinted
to Mr. Lane, that if permission was given, we must apply
to the Admiralty. In short, I wish you success in all your
engagements ; but whether or no you and I may have rea-
son to have desired that Captain Shayhr might come fully
loaded with merchandise from hence, is a point that I can-
not determine. You must allow that affairs are in a very
critical situation ; and although a civil war may never break
out, yet there has been a great appearance of one. If you
should for once lose the profit you expected to make by
the Harmony, I hope it will be amply made up to you
when matters get settled ; then there may be some comfort
in executing our friends' commissions. You may believe
me when I say I have experienced very little satisfaction
for these two years past, and scarce know what course to
take with the little business we have left. I trust that
when matters once get settled, that Administration will
take proper notice of those who have ventured so much to
serve them ; your friends here will not be backward in
promoting your interest on every occasion.

I have neither time nor abilities to enter into the minutias
of things as I could wish. I have a great respect for Mr.
Erving, and hope there will ever be a lasting friendship
subsisting between us. What the Americans will think of
the Restraining Act of the Fishery, he, I cannot tell ; I
should think it must bring about universal confusion and
anarchy, or a happy and speedy settlement ; this last I
earnestly wish may take place. Mr. Lane proposes, when
he sees Lord North, to desire him to destroy your letter ;
though, as it had been in his possession many weeks before,
presume it can signify but little, especially as I am pretty
confident the contents of your letter will never be known
to the publick. I am, with great respect, Sir, your most
humble servant, Thomas Eraser.

TIMOTHY LADD TO THE MASSACHUSETTS CONGRESS.
Goffstown, N. H., May 13, 1775.

Gentlemen : After my regards to your Honours with
freedom, whereas it is thought there will be a number of
soldiers called for out of this Province for the assistance
and defence of North America, for our privileges and
liberties ; I would inform your Honours that if occasion
should call for a number, I am ready to serve your Hon-
ours in this Government and my Country, for the de-
fence of our privileges and the enjoyment of liberty in
America.

If your Honours should call for me, I am ready to serve
my Country with all freedom and assistance that I am
capable of; as I think it is the duty of all well-wishers to
liberty and the North America. Wishing success to lib-
erty, so I subscribe myself your well-wisher and humble
servant, Timothy Ladd.

To the Honourable Congress sitting at Exeter.

BENEDICT ARNOLD TO THE MASSACHUSETTS COMMITTEE
OF SAFETY.

Ticonderoga, May 14, 1775.

Gentlemen: My last was the 11th instant per express,
since which a party of men have seized on Crown Point,
in which they took eleven prisoners, and found sixty-one
pieces of cannon serviceable, and fifty-three unfit for ser-
vice. I ordered a party to Skenesborough, to take Major
Skene, who have made him prisoner, and seized a small
schooner, which is just arrived here. I intend setting out
in her directly, with a batteau and fifty men, to take pos-
session of the sloop, which, we are advised this morning

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CORRESPONDENCE, PROCEEDINGS, &c, MAY, 1775.

586

by the post, is at St. John's, loaded with provisions, &c,
waiting a wind for this place. Enclosed is a list of cannon,
&c, here, though imperfect, as we have found many pieces
not included, and some are on the edge of the lake, cov-
ered with water. I am, with the assistance of Mr. Ber-
nard Romans, making preparation at Fort George for trans-
porting to Albany those cannon that will be serviceable to
our Army at Cambridge. I have about one hundred men
here, and expect more every minute. Mr. Allen's party
is decreasing, and the dispute between us subsiding. I am
extremely sorry matters have not been transacted with
more prudence and judgment ; I have done every thing in
my power, and put up with many insults to preserve peace
and serve the publick. I hope soon to be properly releas-
ed from this troublesome business, that some more proper
person may be appointed in my room ; till which I am,
very respectfully, gentlemen, your most obedient humble
servant, Benedict Arnold.

P. S. Since writing the above, Mr. Homans concludes
going to Albany to forward carriages for the cannon,
iStc, and provisions, which will be soon wanted. I beg
leave to observe he has been of great service here, and I
think him a very spirited, judicious gentleman, who has the
service of the Country much at heart, and hope he will
meet proper encouragement. B. A.

TO THE PRESIDENT OF THE PROVINCIAL CONGRESS, NOW
SITTING AT WATERTOWN.

Falmouth, May 14, 1775.

Honoured Sir : The Committee of Correspondence in
this Town beg leave to inform you, that some time past
we received advice from Georgetown, that Colonel Thomp-
son was fitting two vessels there with design to attempt the
taking the King's ship Canceaux, stationed in this harbour,
commanded by Captain Moivat, a gentleman whose con-
duct since he has been here has given no grounds of sus-
picion he had any design to distress or injure us; but on
the other hand has afforded his assistance to sundry vessels
in distress. As we thought such an attempt had the appear-
ance of laying the foundation for the destruction of this
Town, the Committee of Correspondence met, and wrote
to the Committee of Correspondence at Georgetown,
desiring they .would prevent their coming; we also wrote to
Colonel Thompson desiring him to desist from such an
attempt, as it would throw this Town into the greatest con-
fusion imaginable; we sent an express, and received his
answer that he had dropped the design of coming. But on
Monday night he landed upwards of sixty men on the
back side of a neck of land joining this Town, who came
there in a number of boats, and lay undiscovered till about
the middle of the next day ; at which time Captain Mowat,
the Doctor of the ship, and Parson Wiswal, were taking
a walk on said neck, when a detachment from Colonel
Thompson's party rushed from their concealment, surround-
ed the gentlemen, and made them prisoners, and conducted
them to the Colonel, who was with the main body on the
back side of the neck. Captain Hogg, who now commanded
the ship, immediately clapped springs on his cabels, she lay-
ing within musket shot of the Town, and swore if the gen-
tlemen were not released by six o'clock, he would fire on
the Town. He fired two cannon, and although there
were no shot in them, it frightened the women and chil-
dren to such a degree, that some crawled under wharves,
some ran down cellar, and some out of Town. Such a
shocking scene was never presented to view here. The
gentlemen who were in custody were conducted to a pub-
lick house, where Captain Mowat declared if he was not
released it would be the destruction of the Town. Every
gentleman present used his utmost endeavours to accom-
modate the matter. Colonel Thompson consented that a
Committee should be chosen, consisting of officers from his
party, and gentlemen from the Town, to consult in what
manner the affair could be accommodated ; but as it was
late, the Committee chose to defer the consideration of it
till next morning. Captain Mowat then requested he
might go on board his ship that night ; and he would pawn
his word and honour he would return next morning, at
what time, and at what place should be appointed. Col-
onel Thompson consented, provided Colonel Freeman, and
Brigadier Preble, would pass their words, and that the

several gentlemen should return according to their promise,
and also pawn their word and honour if the gentlemen
failed coming, that they would deliver themselves up and
stand by the consequences ; which was consented to. Cap-
tain Moivat not coming according to promise, which was
to have been at nine o'clock next morning, the sponsors
appeared according to promise, and were confined. Captain
Mowat wrote to them, and let them know he had fully
determined to have complied with his promise, but he
had sent his man on shore to carry some dirty linen to
his washing-woman, and to bring off some clean ; that
said man made oath, that two of the body, under arms,
one of which swore, by all that was sacred, the moment
he came on shore he should have what was in his piece,
and the other that he should never return on board again
with his life : and that two more of bis men made oath, they
heard several of the men under arms say, the moment he
came on shore they would have his life ; this was what he
wrote to plead an excuse for not complying with his pro-
mise. Colonel Thompson told the two gentlemen under
confinement, that he must have some provision and re-
freshment for his men, which they procured to the amount
of thirteen or fourteen Pounds, lawful money, on which
they were dismissed. About ten o'clock, he sent an ac-
count to them for time and expense, amounting to one hun-
dred and fifty-eight Pounds and eighteen Shillings, lawful
money, and gave them till next morning nine o'clock to re-
turn an answer, which they did in the negative. He said
he would have satisfaction before he left the Town. He
then seized all the goods he could find belonging to Captain
Coulson and William Tyng, Esquires. They also carried
off one boat belonging to Coulson, and one other to Cap-
tain Mowat. They also obliged Captain Pote to furnish
them with some provisions, and a small matter of cash.
They also brought one man on his knees for speaking disre-
spectfully of the Colonel and his men. Colonel Thompson,
we doubt not, is a true friend to his Country, and a man of
courage and resolution ; but as our Town lays so much
exposed to the Navy, that had he succeeded in his attempt,
(which there was not the least probability of,) it must have
proved the destruction of this Town and the country back,
which is now in the greatest distress for want of provisions.
We have only related plain facts, that the honourable
members of the Provincial Congress may not be imposed
on with false accounts, to whom please to communicate this
letter. We are, with great esteem, gentlemen, your most
obedient servant, Jedediah Preble, Chairman.

COMMITTEE OF CORRESPONDENCE OF FALMOUTH TO THE
COMMITTEE OF SAFETY.

Falmouth, May 15, 1775.

May it please your Honours : We, the Committee of
Correspondence in Falmouth, would beg leave to represent
to your Honours the situation and circumstances of this
Town and County, and if there is any impropriety in our
doing it, your candour will excuse it.

The alarming attempt of Colonel Thompson to take the
Ship Canceaux, Captain Henry Mowat commander, now
in this harbour, has occasioned great uneasiness in this
Town, as it has a tendency to bring on us certain ruin,
by the Admiral resenting it in such a manner as to block
up our harbour before the time ; and we have no force
to oppose or prevent it ; no fortifications, no ammunition,
no cannon ; and if provisions are stopped from coming in
here, the Town is ruined, as well as the country, which
depends upon the Town for supplies, of which at present
there is a great scarcity. We think Colonel Thompson 's
attempt was rash and injurious, if not unjustifiable, as we
cannot learn be had any authority from you or the Con-
gress. We are sure it was contrary to the will and without
any orders from his superiour officers in the militia, though
solicited for by him ; and the people here seemed to be
laid under contribution by them to subsist his men.

We hope care will be taken that every attack upon our
enemies through the Province shall be conducted by proper
officers, orderly, regularly, and with proper authority, lest
it should occasion a civil war among ourselves. 'Tis true,
in defending ourselves, which may be sudden, immediate
and resolute opposition, in the best manner that can be sud-
denly thought of, should be adopted ; but we are afraid

587

CORRESPONDENCE, PROCEEDINGS, he, MAY, 1775.

588

that if any number of men at any time, and in any man-
ner, may collect together, and attack any thing, or any
person they please, every body may be in danger. Sat
verbum sapivnti.

We are also concerned lest a good deal of confusion
should arise from a number of our young men in the coun-
try possessing themselves of the enlisting papers lately
printed, some calling themselves Colonels, some Majors,
appointing their own officers, Adjutants, Chaplains, Cliirur-
geons, Sic, &.C, without having, as we can learn, any writ-
ten orders for so doing; for they seem to contend already
who shall be chief officers, and they are uncertain whe-
ther the men they enlist are to be stationed here for de-
fence, or to march to Cambridge to make up the Standing
Army.

Enlisting papers, we understand, were sent to General
Preble, but he not having any written orders did not act in
the affair. If the Army can be completed without drawing
men from hence, as we have all along been made to under-
stand was the case, we cannot help thinking it would be
most prudent ; however, we shall not be backward if there
is real occasion for men; and in that case we humbly submit
whether it would not be best some person or persons
should be appointed to conduct the affair according to
orders. We hope we shall be excused for thus troubling
your Honours, as we were solicited to do it by a number of
gentlemen. We are, with great veneration, your Honours'
most obedient humble servant,

Enoch Freeman, per order.

To the Honourable the Committee of Safety for the Prov-
ince of the Massachusetts Bay, Cambridge.

In Provincial Congress, Watortown, )
May 18, 1775. \

Ordered, That Colonel Thompson have the following
Letter sent him.

" Sir: This Congress has received information that the
Committee of Correspondence of the Town of Falmouth,
on hearing that you were about making an attack on the
Canceaux man-of-war, lying in the harbour of that Town,
desired you to forbear any proceedings of that kind, which
you promised to do, but that you afterwards took the Cap-
tain of said ship-of-war, and detained the Honourable Je-
dediah Preble and Enoch Freeman, Esquire, as hostages
for the return of the said Captain, and that you levied
contributions of money and other things from the subjects
there, and look a boat belonging to the said Canceaux.

" Though this Congress approves of your general zeal for
this Country, yet it appears that your conduct in taking
the Captain of the ship against your promise, and your
levying money, or other things of the people, is by no
means justifiable, and it is therefore expected that you
attend the next Congress that shall be held in this Colony,
and do your character justice in this matter, and that you
return said boat, and stay all further proceedings of this
kind in the mean time."

Williamsburgh, Va., May 19, 1775.

On Monday last, May 15, 1775, Captain Montague's
detachment of Marines took their departure from this City,
and are returned on board the Fowey.

The same day a Council was held at the Capitol, after
the breaking up of which, the following Address was made
publick:

" To all the good People of Virginia :

" We, His Majesty's faithful subjects, the Council of
this Colony, deeply impressed with the most sincere regard
for the prosperity of our Country, and the welfare of all
its inhabitants, and being desirous, by our example, and by
every means in our power, to preserve the peace and good
order of the community, can no longer forbear to express
our abhorrence and detestation of that licentious and ungo-
vernable spirit that is gone forth, and misleads the once
happy people of this Country.

" The Council recommend it to all orders of men to
consider seriously what will be the probable consequence
of such a conduct as hath been lately pursued, and whether
a redress of the grievances complained of will not be more
likely to be obtained by gentle, mild, and constitutional

methods, than by such intemperate behaviour, which must
tend to exasperate and inflame, rather than reconcile the
differences that now unhappily subsist.

" The Council wish, upon this occasion, that all odious
distinctions may be laid aside, and that they may be con-
sidered not as a separate body of men, and having a dis-
tinct interest from the rest of their countrymen and fellow-
subjects, but, in the light in which they have always re-
garded themselves, as the watchful guardians of the rights
of the people, as well as of the prerogative of the Crown.
They are most of them natives of this Country, they have
families, they have property, and they trust they have in-
tegrity too, which are the best securities men can give to
any society for the faithful discharge of their duty.

" Let, then, their exhortations have proper weight and
influence among the people ; and they plight their faith
that they will join heartily with them in the use of such
means as shall be judged most salutary and conducive for
enforcing obedience to the laws, and supporting the Con-
stitution of their Country, under which it has flourished
from its infancy, and for obtaining a happy and speedy
conclusion to all our troubles.

" As his Excellency the Governour hath issued his
Proclamation for the speedy meeting of the General As-
sembly, the Council are happy in finding an opportunity
will be given the people of representing their grievances
in the manner prescribed by the Constitution.

" Signed by order of the Members of the Council :
" John Blair, Cleric of the Council."

CHESTER COUNTY (PENNSYLVANIA) COMMITTEE.

At a meeting of the Committee for the County of
Chester, at the Borough of Chester, May 15, 1775, An-
thony Wayne, Esquire, in the chair, the following Resolves
were made, viz :

Whereas the British Parliament, instead of hearing our
just complaints or showing the least regard to the dutiful
and loyal Petition of the late Continental Congress in
behalf of America, have proceeded to fresh acts of tyranny
and oppression, which, added to an Address of both Lords
and Commons to His Majesty, declaring the inhabitants of
the Province of Massachusetts-Bay to be in a state of open
rebellion, and several of the other Colonies encouragers of
the same, have induced the soldiery under the command of
General Gage, at Boston, to commence a civil war, by
wantonly firing upon and murdering a number of the inha-
bitants of that Province : And whereas the said Address
militates equally against all the inhabitants of the other
Colonies, who have the virtue to refuse obedience to laws
and measures destructive to the best rights and liberties of
America, which, if suffered to take effect, must inevitably
reduce these Colonies to a state of abject slavery, from
which, in all probability, no human efforts would ever be
able to rescue them ; and although we will not yield to
any of our fellow-subjects in point of duty and loyalty to
our most gracious Sovereign, yet we cannot be so far neg-
ligent of our own happiness as totally to neglect providing
for our common safety :

Therefore resolved unanimously, 1st. That it is the in-
dispensable duty of all the freemen of this County imme-
diately to form and enter into Associations for the purpose
of learning the military art ; and that they provide them-
selves with proper Arms and Ammunition, to be ready in
case of emergency to defend our liberty, property, and
lives, against all attempts to deprive us of them. And we
solemnly engage to promote such Associations to the utmost
of our power.

2d. Resolved, nem. con., That no Powder be expended
in this County, except on emergent occasions, and the
store and shop-keepers are requested not to dispose of any,
except to some one or more of this Committee, who are
ordered to purchase the same.

3d. Resolved, nem. con., That this Committee, confiding
in the wisdom and virtue of the Continental Congress now-
sitting in Philadelphia, will adopt, and use their utmost
endeavours to carry into execution, all such measures as
the said Congress shall recommend for the preservation of
American liberty.

4th. Resolved, nem. con., It is earnestly recommended
to every subscriber in this County for the relief of the poor

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ASSEMBLY OF NEW-JERSEY, MAY, 1775.

590

in Boston, that they immediately pay the same, as it is
much wanted for the benevolent purposes intended.

5th. Resolved, ncm. con., That each member of this
Committee will give his attendance at the Borough of
Chester on the 31st of this instant, at ten o'clock, A. M.,
in order to consult the Justices, Grand Jury, and Board of

Commissioners and Assessors, on ways and means to pro-
cure a proper quantity of Arms and Ammunition for the
use of this County.

The Committee then adjourned to the time and place
above-mentioned. By order of the Committee :

Francis Johnston, Secretary.

ASSEMBLY OF NEW-JERSEY.

Votes and Proceedings of the General Assembly of the
Colony of New- Jersey, at a sitting begun at Burlington,
Monday, May 15, 1775, and continued until the twentieth
day of the same month ; being the first sitting of the Fourth
Session of the Twenty-Second Assembly of New-Jersey.

NAMES OF THE REPRESENTATIVES.

City of Perth-Amboy. — Cortland Skinner, Speaker,

John Combs.
Middlesex. — John Wetherill, Azariah Dunham.
Monmouth. — Edward Taylor, Richard Lawrence.
Essex. — Stephen Crane, Henry Garritse.
Somerset. — Hendrick Fisher, John Ray.
Bergen. — Theunis Dey, John Demarest.
Morris. — Jacob Ford, William Winds.
City of Burlington. — James Kinsey, Thomas P. Hew-

lings.
County of Burlington. — Henry Faxon, Anthony Sykcs.
Gloucester. — John Hinchman, Robert F. Price.
Salem. — Grant Gibbon, Benjamin Holme.
Cape May. — Jonathan Hand, Eli Eldridge.
Hunterdon. — Samuel Tucker, John Mehelm.
Cumberland. — John Sheppard, Theophilus Elmer.
Sussex. — Nathaniel Pettit, Joseph Barton.

Burlington, Monday, May 15, 1775.

Pursuant to his Excellency's several prorogations of the
General Assembly from time to time till this day, the House
met.

Azariah Dunham, Esq., being duly returned a Repre-
sentative to serve in the General Assembly for the County
of Middlesex, and now attending, was admitted into the
House, and took the usual oaths, and made and subscribed
the declaration by law appointed, before Cortland Skinner,
Esq., thereto authorized by dedimus potestatem.

Ordered, That Mr. Dunham do take his seat in the
House.

The House adjourned till three P. M.

The House met.

Ordered, That Mr. Fisher and Mr. Wetherill do wait
upon his Excellency and acquaint him that a sufficient num-
ber of Members to constitute a House are met, and are
ready to receive any thing he may please to lay before
them.

Mr. Speaker laid before the House a Letter to him from
William Bollan, Benjamin Franklin, and Arthur Lee,
Esquires, dated London, December 24, 1774; which was
read.

Mr. Speaker also laid before the House a Letter to him
from the Honourable John Cruger, Esquire, Speaker of the
House of Representatives of the Province of New-York,
enclosing their Petition to the King, the Memorial to the
House of Lords, and a Representation to the House of Com-
mons, a List of Grievances, and the Resolutions entered
into by the General Assembly there, on the eighth of March
last; all which were read.

Mr. Fisher reported that Mr. Wetherill and himself
waited upon his Excellency with the message of the House
according to order, and that his Excellency was pleased to
say that the House should hear from him to-morrow morn-
ing.

The House adjourned till 9 o'clock to-morrow morning.

Tuesday, May 16, 1775.

The House met and adjourned till three P.M.

The House met.

A Message from his Excellency by Mr. Deputy Secre-
tary Pettit:

Mr. Speaker : His Excellency is in the Council Cham-
ber, and requires the immediate attendance of the House.

Whereupon Mr. Speaker left the Chair, and, with the
House, went to wait upon his Excellency ; and being re-
turned, Mr. Speaker resumed the chair, and reported that
the House had waited on his Excellency, who was pleased
to make a Speech to the Council and House of Assembly,
of which Mr. Speaker said he had, to prevent mistakes,
obtained a copy. And the same, by order of the House,
was read, and is as follows, viz :

Gentlemen of the Council, and Gentlemen of the As-
sembly :

The sole occasion of my calling you together at this time,
is to lay before you a Resolution of the House of Com-
mons, wisely and humanely calculated to open a door for
the restoration of that harmony between Great Britain
and her American Colonies, on which their mutual welfare
and happiness so greatly depend.

This Resolution having already appeared in the publick
papers, and a great variety of interpretations put upon it,
mostly according to the different views and dispositions by
which men are actuated, and scarcely any having seen it in
its proper light, I think I cannot, at this critical juncture,
better answer the gracious purposes of His Majesty, nor
do my Country more essential service, than to lay before
you as full an explanation of the occasion, purport, and in-
tent of it, as is in my power. By this means you, and the
good people you represent, will be enabled to judge for
yourselves, how far you ought or ought not to acquiesce
with the plan it contains, and what steps it will be prudent
for you to take on this very important occasion.

You will see in the King's answer to the joint Address
of both Houses of Parliament on the seventh of February,
how much attention His Majesty was graciously pleased to
give to the assurance held out in that Address, of the readi-
ness of Parliament to afford every just and reasonable in-
dulgence to the Colonies, whenever they should make a
proper application on the ground of any real grievance they
might have to complain of. This Address was accordingly
soon after followed by the Resolution of the House of Com-
mons, now laid before you, a circumstance which afforded
His Majesty great satisfaction, as it gave room to hope for
a happy effect, and would, at all events, ever remain an
evidence of their justice and moderation, and manifest the
temper which has accompanied their deliberations upon that
question, which has been the source of so much disquiet to
the King's subjects in America.

His Majesty, ardently wishing to see a reconciliation of
the unhappy differences by every means through which it
may be obtained, without prejudice to the just authority of
Parliament, which His Majesty will never suffer to be vio-
lated, has approved the Resolution of his faithful Com-
mons, and has commanded it to be transmitted to the Gov-
ernours of his Colonies, not doubting that this happy
disposition to comply with every just and reasonable wish
of the King's subjects in America, will meet with such a
return of duty and affection on their part, as will lead to a
happy issue of the present dispute, and to a re-establish-
ment of the publick tranquillity on those grounds of equity,
justice, and moderation, which this Resolution holds forth.
What has given the King the greater satisfaction in this
Resolution, and the greater confidence in the good effects
of it, is, his having seen that, amidst all the intemperance
into which a people, jealous of their liberties, have been
unfortunately misled, they have nevertheless avowed the
justice, the equity, and the propriety of subjects of the
same State contributing, according to their abilities and
situation, to the publick burdens ; and this Resolution, it is
thought, holds no proposition beyond that.

It would probably be deemed unjust to suppose that any
of the King's subjects in the Colonies can so far forget the

591

ASSEMBLY OF NEW-JERSEY, MAY, 1"5.

592

benefits they have received from the Parent State as not
to acknowledge that it is to her support, held forth at the
expense of her blood and treasure, that they principally
owe that security which hath raised them to their present
state of opulence and importance. In this situation, there-
fore, justice requires that they should, in return, contribute
according to their respective abilities to the common de-
fence ; and their own welfare and interest demand that civil
establishment should be supported with becoming dignity.

It has been the care, and it is the firm determination of
Parliament to see that both these ends are answered, and
their wisdom and moderation have suggested the propriety
of leaving to each Colony to judge of the ways and means
of making due provision for these purposes, reserving to
themselves a discretionary power of approving or disap-
proving what shall be offered.

The Resolution neither points out what the civil estab-
lishment should be, nor demands any specifick sum in aid
of the publick burdens. In both these respects it leaves
full scope for that justice and liberality which may be ex-
pected from Colonies that, under all their prejudices, have
never been wanting in expressions of an affectionate attach-
ment to the mother Country, and a zealous regard for the
general welfare of the British Empire ; and therefore the
King trusts that the provision they will engage to make
for the support of civil government, will be adequate to the
rank and station of every necessary officer, and that the
sum to be given in contribution to the common defence
will be offered on such terms, and proposed in such a way,
as to increase or diminish according as the publick burdens
of Great Britain are from time to time augmented or re-
duced, in so far as these burdens consist of taxes and duties
which are not a security for the National Debt.

By such a mode of contribution, the Colonies will have
full security that they can never be required to tax them-
selves, without Parliament's taxing the subjects in Great
Britain in a far greater proportion ; and it may be relied u pon,
that any proposition of this nature, made by any of the Colo-
nies, and accompanied with such a state of their faculties
and ability, as may evince the equity of the proposal, will
be received with every possible indulgence ; provided it be
at the same time unaccompanied with any declarations, and
unmixed with any claims which will make it impossible
for the King, consistently with his own dignity, or for Par-
liament, consistently with their constitutional rights, to re-
ceive it. But it is not supposed that any of the Colonies
will, after this example of the temper and moderation of
Parliament, adopt such a conduct. On the contrary, the
pleasing hope is cherished that the publick peace will be
restored, and that the Colonies will enter into the conside-
ration of the Resolution of the House of Commons with that
calmness and deliberation which the importance of it de-
mands, and with that good will and inclination to a recon-
ciliation, which are due to the candour and justice with
which Parliament has taken up this business, and at once
declared to the Colonies what will be ultimately expected
from them.

It has been already observed that the King entirely ap-
proves the Resolution of the House of Commons, and I
have His Majesty's commands to say, that a compliance
therewith by the General Assembly will be most graciously
considered by His Majesty, not only as a testimony of their
reverence for Parliament, but also as a mark of their duty
and attachment to their Sovereign, who has no object nearer
to his heart than the peace and prosperity of his subjects
in every part of his Dominions. At the same time I must
tell you His Majesty considers himself as bound, by every
tie, to exert those means the Constitution has placed in his
hands for preserving that Constitution entire, and to resist,
with firmness, every attempt to violate the rights of Par-
liament, to distress and obstruct the lawful commerce of
his subjects, or to encourage in the Colonies ideas of inde-
pendence inconsistent with their connexion with Great
Britain.

Here, gentlemen, you have a full and candid state of the
disposition and expectations of His Majesty and the Parlia-
ment. They require nothing of America but what the
Colonies have repeatedly professed themselves ready and
willing to perform. A late Assembly of this Province, in
their Petition to the King in 1766, express themselves
thus : £: As no danger can approach Britain without giv-

ing us the most sensible alarm, so your Majesty may be
assured; that with filial duty we shall ever be ready to
afford all the assistance in our power, and stand or fall with
that Kingdom from which we boast our descent, and to
which we are attached by the strongest ties of duty, grati-
tude and affection." And in a subsequent Petition they
say: " Very far it is from our intentions to deny our subor-
dination to that august body, (the Parliament,) or our de-
pendance on the Kingdom ol Great Britain. In these
connexions, and in the settlement of our liberties under the
auspicious influence of your Royal House, we know our
happiness consists; and, therefore, to confirm those con-
nexions, and to strengthen this settlement, is at once our
interest, duty, and delight."

Similar declarations have been repeatedly made in other
Colonies. The following vote was passed in the Assembly
of Pennsylvania, to wit : " The House, taking into con-
sideration the many taxes their fellow-subjects in Great
Britain are obliged to pay towards supporting the dignity
of the Crown, and defraying the necessary and contingent
charges of the Government, and willing to demonstrate the
fidelity, loyalty, and affection of the inhabitants of this
Province to our gracious Sovereign, by bearing a share of
the burden of our fellow-subjects, proportionable to our
circumstances, do, therefore, cheerfully and unanimously
resolve that three thousand Pounds be paid for the use of
the King, his heirs and successors, to be applied to such
uses as he in his royal wisdom shall think fit to direct and
appoint." And the said three thousand Pounds was after-
wards paid into His Majesty's Exchequer by the Agent of
the Province accordingly.

Nor can I avoid mentioning what was done in the Con-
vention of Committees from every County in Pennsylvania,
who met in July last for the express purpose of giving in-
structions to their Representatives in Assembly on this very
subject. Several of these instructions manifest such a
candour and liberality of sentiment, such just ideas of the
importance of our connexion with Great Britain, and point
out so rational a method to be pursued for obtaining a re-
dress for the supposed grievances, (previous to any attempts
to distress the trade of that Kingdom,) that it is greatly to
be regretted that the conduct of America, in a matter of
such vast importance to its future welfare, had not been
regulated by the principles and advice they suggested.
In those instructions, speaking of the powers Parliament
had claimed and lately exercised, the Convention say :
" We are thoroughly convinced they will prove unfailing
and plentiful sources of dissensions to our mother Country
and these Colonies, unless some expedients can be adopted
to render her secure of receiving from us every emolument
that can, in justice and reason, be expected; and us secure
in our lives, properties, and an equitable share of commerce.
Mournfully revolving in our minds the calamities that,
arising from these dissensions, will most probably fall on us
and our children, we will now lay before you the particular
points we request of you to procure, if possible, to be finally
decided, and the measures that appear to us most likely to
produce such a desirable period of our distresses and dan-
gers." Then, after enumerating the particular Acts of
Parliament, which they consider as grievances, and desire
to have repealed, they add : " In case of obtaining these
terms, it is our opinion that it will be reasonable for the
Colonies to engage their obedience to the Acts of Parlia-
ment, commonly called the Acts of Navigation, and to every
other Act of Parliament declared to have force at this time
in these Colonies, other than those above mentioned, and
to confirm such Statutes by Acts of the several Assemblies.
It is also our opinion that, taking example from our mother
Country in abolishing the Courts of Wards and Liveries,
tenures in capite, and by Knights' service and purvey-
ance, it will be reasonable for the Colonies, in case of ob-
taining the terms before mentioned, to settle a certain
annual revenue on His Majesty, his heirs and successors,
subject to the control of Parliament, and to satisfy all
damages done to the East-India Company. This our idea
of settling a revenue, arises from a sense of duty to our
Sovereign, and of esteem for our mother Country. We
know and have felt the benefits of a subordinate connexion
with her. We neither are so stupid as to be ignorant of
them, nor so unjust as to deny them. We have also expe-
rienced the pleasures of gratitude and love, as well as

593

ASSEMBLY OF NEW-JERSEY, MAY, 1775.

594

advantages from that connexion. The impressions are not
erased. We consider her circumstances with tender con-
cern. AVe have not been wanting, when constitutionally
called upon, to assist her to the utmost of our abilities, inso-
much that she has judged it reasonable to make us recom-
penses for our over-strained exertions : and we now think
we ought to contribute more than we do to the alleviation
of her burdens. Whatever may be said of these proposals
on either side of the Atlantick, this is not a time either for
timidity or rashness. We perfectly know that the great
cause now agitated is to be conducted to a happy conclu-
sion only by that well-tempered composition of counsels
which firmness, prudence, loyalty to our Sovereign, respect
to our Parent State, and affection to our native Country,
united, must form." " In case of war, or in any emergency
of distress, we shall also be ready and willing to contribute
all aids within our power. And we solemnly declare, that on
such occasions, if we, or our posterity, shall refuse, neglect,
or decline thus to contribute, it will be a mean and mani-
fest violation of a plain duty, and a weak and wicked deser-
tion of the true interests of this Province, which ever have
been, and must be, bound up in the prosperity of our
Mother Country. Our union, founded on mutual compacts
and mutual benefits, will be indissoluble ; at least more
firm than an union perpetually disturbed by disputed rights
and retorted injuries." I could quote several more passages
from these instructions, which are expressive of the same
honest and generous sentiments with regard to Great Bri-
tain, but I shall only make one more extract, and that
respecting the mode which they recommended to be pur-
sued for the redress of grievances, viz : " But other con-
siderations have weight with us. We wish every mark of
respect to be paid to His Majesty's administration. We
have been taught, from our youth, to entertain tender and
brotherly affections for our fellow-subjects at home. The
interruption of our commerce must greatly distress great
numbers of them. This we earnestly desire to avoid. We
therefore request that the Deputies you shall appoint may
be instructed to exert themselves at the Congress, to induce
the Members of it to consent to make a full and precise
state of grievances, and a decent, yet firm claim of redress,
and to await the event before any other step is taken. It
is our opinion that persons should be appointed and sent
home to present this state and claim at the Court of Great
Britain." After mentioning their confidence in the intended
General Congress, and their resolution to abide their deter-
minations for the sake of unanimity, they declare that it is
" with a strong hope and trust that they will not draw this
Province into any measure judged by us, who must be
better acquainted with its state than strangers, highly inex-
pedient. Of this kind, we know any other stoppage of trade,
hut of that with Great Britain, will be. Even this step we
should be extremely afflicted to see taken by the Congress,
before the other mode, above pointed out, is tried."

Happy would it have been at this day, in all probability,
if some such healing measure had been pursued. Some
plan of union, or proposal of " a mutual compact" for " mu-
tual benefit," was the grand object which every honest man
in the Colonies had at heart. An imperfect one (if not too
glaringly so) was better than none, as it would, if it had
answered no other purpose, have laid a foundation for ne-
gotiation and treaty. It has been lately observed in Par-
liament, "That it does not appear the Colonies were
seriously inclined to come into any reasonable terms of ac-
commodation, as no body was authorized to make any
proposals to that effect."

However, it can be of little avail now to animadvert on
past transactions. Who has been most in the right or most
in the wrong, can never be satisfactorily decided. Many
things will ever happen in the course of a long continued
dispute, which good men of both parties must reflect on
with pain, and wish to have buried in oblivion. In the
present situation of affairs we should only look forward, and
endeavour to fall on some expedient that may avert the
impending danger. To effect this desirable purpose, a plan
is now formed and recommended to you by His Majesty,
containing terms greatly corresponding with the avowed
sentiments of many of the Colonies, and which, I think,
can only want to be rightly understood in order to be gene-
rally adopted. It does not require from the people of this
Country any formal acknowledgment of the right of taxa-

Fourth Series. — Vol. ii. 38

tion in the Parliament. It waives all dispute on that head,
and suspends the exercise of it forever, if so long the Colo-
nies shall perform their part of the contract. It does not
even require as a preliminary that the Non-Importation and
IS on-Exportation Agreements shall be abolished. It comes
before you in the old accustomed manner, by way of requi-
sition, being approved and adopted by the King, who has
directed his several Governours to signify to the respective
Assemblies his desire that they should grant such aids for
the common defence, and the support of Government within
the Colonies, as shall appear to them just and equitable,
and proportionate to their abilities. His Majesty and the
Parliament, 'tis true, are to judge whether the aids which
each Colony may offer are worth acceptance, or adequate
to their respective abilities, as they did during the course of
the last war, very much to the satisfaction of those Colo-
nies who exerted themselves; often making them a com-
pensation " according as their active vigour and strenuous
efforts respectively appeared to merit." The necessity of
some such supreme judge is evident from the very nature
of the case, as otherwise some Colonies might not contribute
their due proportion. During the last war I well remember
it was ardently wished by some of the Colonies that others
who were thought to be delinquent might be compelled,
by Act of Parliament, to bear an equal share of the pub-
lick burdens. It appears, by the minutes of Assembly, in
March and April, 1758, that some of the neighbouring
Colonies thought New-Jersey had not, at that time, con-
tributed its due share towards the expenses of the war, and
that President Beading (the then Commander-in-Chief of
the Colony) was of the same opinion. And since my ad-
ministration, when the Assembly, in 1764, was called upon
to make provision for raising some Troops on account of
the Indian war, they declined doing it for some time but
"■ on condition a majority of the Eastern Colonies, as far as
to include Massachusetts-Bay, should come into His Ma-
jesty's requisition on the occasion." But as none of the
Assemblies of the New-England Governments thought
themselves nearly concerned, nothing was granted by them,
and the whole burden of the expeditions then carried on
fell upon Great Britain and three or four of the middle
Colonies ; with which this Colony was dissatisfied, and the
Assembly complained of it in one of their Addresses to me
on the occasion. But what fully evinces that there is no
design of oppression or extortion in the proposed reserva-
tion in His Majesty and his Parliament of the right of ap-
proving the aids which may be offered by the Colonies, is
His Majesty's gracious assurance that the propositions on
this head will be received with every possible indulgence.
The moneys raised by the several Colonies as their propor-
tion to the common defence, is made subject to the disposal
of Parliament, as in justice it ought, as they furnish the
whole sum which may be wanted for that necessary pur-
pose, according to the estimates annually laid before them
by the Crown, besides making provision for the civil list
and National Debt, towards which the Colonies are not
asked to contribute. The Army and Navy establishment,
it is well known, is necessarily increased since the extension
of the British Dominions in America. The whole Ame-
rican civil and military establishment, as paid by Great
Britain, after the peace of Aix-la-Chapelle, was, it is said,
only £70,000 sterling ; but since the last peace, it amounts
to upwards of £350,000. As this great additional expense
was chiefly incurred on an American account, it cannot but
be reasonable that America should pay some part of it.
To remove every objection that other taxes may be raised
upon America, under the colour of regulations on com-
merce, the produce of all such duties is to be carried to the
account of that Province where it is to be levied.

We have now, thank Heaven, a happy opportunity of
getting entirely rid of this unnatural contest, by only com-
plying with what I think has been fully proved and ac-
knowledged to be our indispensable duty. Wherever a
people enjoy protection, and the other common benefits of
the State, nothing can be more reasonable than that they
should bear their share of the common burden.

It is much to he lamented that there is so much truth in
the observation, that mankind generally act, not according
to right, hut according to the present interest, and most ac-
cording to present passion. In the present case there arc
no difficulties but what may be easily surmounted, if men

595

ASSEMBLY OF NEW-JERSEY, MAY, 1775.

506

come together sincerely disposed to serve their Country,
unbiased by any sinister views or improper resentments.
This, gentlemen, I trust will be found to be your dispo-
sition in this most alarming situation of publiek affairs.
Let me conjure you, however, not to come to any precipi-
tate resolutions respecting the plan of accommodation now
communicated to you. I have no objection to give you
any time you may think necessary for the due considera-
tion of it. It is. indeed, a concern of a more interesting
nature than ever before came, under the consideration of
an American Assembly. If it is adopted, all will yet be
well. If it is totally rejected, or nothing similar to it pro-
posed, or made the basis of a negotiation, it will necessarily
induce a belief of what has been lately so often mention-
ed in publiek, "That it is not a dispute about modes of
taxation, but that the Americans have deeper views, and
mean to throw off all dependence ujwn Great Britain,
and to get rid of every control of their Legislature." Should
such sentiments ever prevail, they cannot but have the most
fatal effects to this Country. I am, however, fully con-
vinced that the body of the people in the Colonies do not
even entertain a wish of the kind. Rather than lose the
protection of Great Jiritain, America, were it ever so con-
stitutionally and allowedly independent, would find it for its
advantage to purchase that protection at an expense far
beyond what Great Britain would ever think of requiring
while we show her that regard and obedience to which she
is justly entitled, and which our own interest and safety
should prompt us to show, if there were no other consider-
ations.

Taxation being the principal source of the present dis-
orders, when that important point is once settled, every
other subject of complaint which has grown out of it will,
no doubt, of course, be removed ; for you may rely, gen-
tlemen, that notwithstanding the many inimical and op-
pressive designs which the jealousies and suspicions of
incensed people have attributed to Government, yet it is
evident, from the whole tenour of the letters which I have
had the honour to receive from the King's Ministers, that
His Majesty and they have nothing more at heart than to
have these unhappy differences accommodated on some
just and honourable plan, which shall at the same time
secure the liberties of the people, without lessening the
necessary power and dignity of Parliament.

God grant that the Colonies may manifest the same
laudable disposition, and that a hearty reconciliation and
harmony may take place of the present confusion and dis-
sension. Wm. Fkanklin.

Council Chamber, May 16, 1775.

Mr. Deputy Secretary laid before the House the copy
of an Address to the King from the Lords and Commons
of Great Britain, of the 7th of February, 1775, together
with His Majesty's Answer ; also, a copy of a Resolution
of the Honourable House of Commons of Great Britain,
of the 20th of February last ; all which were read.

Ordered, That his Excellency's Speech and the said
Papers be read a second time.

Mr. Tucker laid before the House a printed Pamphlet
lately received from Great Britain, entitled " The Parlia-
mentary Register, No. 5," containing, among other things,
a Paper entitled " An extract of a Letter from Governour
Franklin to the Earl of Dartmouth, dated Perth-Amboy,
February 1, 1775 ; received February 28," in these words,
viz :

" The General Assembly of this Province are now sit-
ting, being convened on the 1 1th of last month, in order to
transact the publiek business.

" At the opening of the session I had some hopes of
prevailing on the House of Representatives not to approve
of the proceedings of the General Congress held at PAiY-
adelphia, for which purpose a paragraph of my speech was
particularly calculated. But the Delegates from this Prov-
ince took the alarm, and used their utmost endeavours with
the members to persuade them to give their approbation to
those proceedings, as otherwise one grand end the Con-
gress had in view would be entirely frustrated, namely : the
preserving an appearance of unanimity throughout the Col-
onies, without which they said their measures could not
have that weight and efficacy with the Government and
people of Great Britain, as was intended.

" The scheme, however, met with some opposition in
the House, every member proposing to defer the consider-
ation of it to a future time, or to give their approbation to
only some parts of the proceedings of the Congress ; but
by the artful management of those who espoused the mea-
sure, it was carried through precipitately the very morning
it was proposed, as your Lordship will see by a copy of
their Resolutions now enclosed, which were all previously
prepared for the purpose."

Which Extract was read, and ordered to be read a sec-
ond lime.

Mr. Crane had leave of absence upon special occasion.

The House adjourned till nine o'clock to-morrow morn-
ing. —

Wednesday, May 17, 1775.

The House met.

His Excellency's Speech, together with the Papers ac-
companying the same, were read the second time, and com-
mitted to a Committee of the Whole House.

Mr. Speaker laid before the House a Letter to him from
John Smith, Esquire, Treasurer of the Eastern Division,
dated Perth-Amboy, May 13, 1775, setting forth that he
had attended the Justices and Freeholders of Middlesex,
with the sum of Nine Thousand Five Hundred and Ninety-
Eight Pounds and Three Shillings, to be sunk according to
law on the Wednesday preceding ; but that no sufficient
number to constitute a Board had attended ; and praying
that an act of Assembly may immediately pass to cancel
and burn said Bills ; which Letter was read, and ordered a
second reading.

The House adjourned till three, P. M.

The House met.

The House, according to Order, resolved itself into a
Committee of the Whole House on His Excellency's
Speech and the Papers accompanying the same, and after
some time spent therein, Mr. Speaker resumed the Chair,
and Mr. Fisher, Chairman of the Committee, reported
that the Committee had gone through the matters to them
referred, and had come to one Resolution, which he was
ready to report whenever the House will please to receive
the same.

Ordered, That the Report be made immediately.

Whereupon Mr. Fisher reported the Resolution of the
Committee, as follows, viz :

Resolved, That an humble Address be presented to his
Excellency in answer to his Speech ; to which the House
agreed.

Ordered, That Mr. Fisher, Mr. Wetherill, Mr. Kinsey,
Mr. Paxon, and Mr. Lawrence, be a Committee to pre-
pare and bring in the draught of an Address to his Excel-
lency, in answer to his Speech.

Joseph Barton, Esquire, being duly returned a Repre-
sentative in Assembly for the County of Sussex, and now
attending, was admitted into the House, and took the usual
oaths, and made and subscribed the Declaration by law
appointed, before Cortland Skinner, Esquire, authorized
by dedimus potestatum.

Ordered, That Mr. Barton do take his seat in the
House.

The House adjourned till ten o'clock to-morrow morning.

Thursday, May 18, 1775.

The House met.

The printed Paper, entitled " An Extract of a Letter
from Governour Franklin to the Earl of Dartmouth, dated
Perth-Amboy, February 1, 1775 ; received February 28,"
was read the second time.

Ordered, That Mr. Hinchman, Mr. Mehclm, Mr. Combs,
Mr. Taylor, and Mr. Holme, be a Committee to prepare
and bring in the draught of a Message to his Excellency,
to request his Excellency would be pleased to inform this
House whether the said Extract is authentick or not.

The House adjourned till three, P. M.

The House met.

Mr. Hinchman, from the Committee appointed this
morning, brought in the draught of a Message to his Ex-
cellency,, according to order ; which was read, amended,
agreed to, and ordered to be engrossed.

597

ASSEMBLY OF NEW-JERSEY, MAY, 1775.

598

The engrossed Message to his Excellency was read and
compared, and the same is as follows, viz :

Ordered, That Mr. Dei/ and Mr. HewHngS do wait
upon his Excellency with the following Message:

May it please your Excellency :

A printed Pamphlet lately received from Great Britain,
entitled " The Parliamentary Register, No. 5," has been
laid before this House, containing, among other things, a
Paper entitled "An Extract of a Letter from Governour
Franklin to the Earl of Dartmouth, dated Ptrth-Amboy,
February 1, 1775 ; received February 28," in these words:

" The General Assembly of this Province are now sit-
ting, being convened on the 11th of last month, in order to
transact the publick business.

ic At the opening of the session I had some hopes of
prevailing on the House of Representatives not to approve
of the proceedings of the General Congress held at Phil-
adelphia, for which purpose a paragraph of my speech was
particularly calculated. But the Delegates from this Prov-
ince took the alarm, and used their utmost endeavours with
the members to persuade them to give their approbation to
those proceedings, as otherwise one grand end the Con-
gress had in view would be entirely frustrated, namely : the
preserving an appearance of unanimity throughout the Col-
onies, without which they said their measures would not
have that weight and efficacy with the Government and
people of Great Britain, as was intended.

" The scheme, however, met with some opposition in
the House, every member proposing to defer the consider-
ation of it to a future time, or to give their approbation to
only some parts of the proceedings of Congress ; but by
the artful management of those who espoused the measure,
it was carried through precipitately the very morning it was
proposed, as your Lordship will see by a copy of their
Resolutions now enclosed, which were all previously pre-
pared for the purpose."

We request your Excellency will be pleased to inform
this House whether the said Extract contains a true repre-
sentation of the words or substance of the Letter, or any
part of the Letter by your Excellency written relative to
the proceedings of the last session of Assembly.

By order of the House :

Richard Smith, Clerk.

llov.se of Assembly, May 18, 1775.

Mr. Fisher, from the Committee on the Address to his
Excellency, brought in a draught ; which was read, and
ordered a second reading.

Mr. Deputy Secretary Pettit laid before the House His
Majesty's royal approbation of two Acts of Assembly of
this Province ; and also His Majesty's royal disallowance
of one other Act, in these words, viz :

" At the Court at St. James's, the 20th day of February,
1775. Present: The King's Most Excellent Majesty,
Lord President, Duke of Queensbury, Duke of Newcastle,
Earl of Denbigh, Earl of Rochford, Earl of Dartmouth,
Viscount Falmouth.

. " Whereas, by commission under the great seal of Great
Britain, the Governour, Council, and Assembly of His
Majesty's Colony of New-Jersey are authorized and em-
powered to make, constitute, and ordain Laws, Statutes,
and Ordinances for the publick peace, welfare, and good
government of the said Colony, which Laws, Statutes, and
Ordinances are to be as near as conveniently may be, agree-
able to the Laws and Statutes of this Kingdom, and are to
be transmitted to His Majesty for his royal approbation or
disallowance : And whereas, in pursuance of the said pow-
ers, two Acts were passed in the said Colony in the last
session of the General Assembly there, which have been
transmitted, entitled as follows, viz:

•' An Act for striking One Hundred Thousand Pounds in
Bills of Credit, and directing the mode for sinking the same.

" An Act for the relief of Abner Hatfield, an insolvent
debtor.

" Which Acts, together with the representation from the
Lords Commissioners for Trade and Plantations thereupon,
having been referred to the consideration of a Committee
of the Lords of His Majesty's most Honourable Privy
Council for Plantation Affairs, the said Lords of the Com-

mittee did this day report as their opinion to His Majesty,
that the said Acts were proper to be approved. His Ma-
jesty taking the same into consideration, was pleased, with
the advice of his Privy Council, to declare his approbation
of the said Acts; and pursuant to His Majesty's royal plea-
sure thereupon expressed, the said Acts are hereby con-
firmed, finally enacted, and ratified accordingly ; whereof
the Governour or Commander-in-Chief of His Majesty's
said Colony of New-Jersey, for the time being, and all
others whom it may concern, are to take notice and govern
themselves accordingly. G. Chetwynd."

" At the Court at St. James's, the 20th day of February,
1775. Present: The King's Most Excellent Majesty,
Lord President, Duke of Qucensbury, Duke of Nev)castle,
Earl of Denbigh, Earl of Rochford, Earl of Dartmouth,
Viscount Falmouth.

" Whereas, by commission under the great seal of Great
Britain, the Governour, Council, and Assembly of His
Majesty's Colony of New- Jersey are authorized and em-
powered to make, constitute, and ordain Laws, Statutes,
and Ordinances for the publick peace, welfare, and good
government of the said Colony, which Laws, Statutes, and
Ordinances are to be as near as conveniently may be, agree-
able to the Laws and Statutes of this Kingdom, and are to
be transmitted for His Majesty's royal approbation or dis-
allowance : And whereas, in pursuance of the said pow-
ers, an Act was passed in the said Colony in the last session
of General Assembly, and transmitted, entitled as follows,
viz :

" An Act for lowering the interest of Money to Six per
Cent, within this Colony.

" Which Act, together with a representation from the
Lords Commissioners for Trade and Plantations thereupon,
having been referred to the consideration of a Committee
of the Lords of His Majesty's most Honourable Privy
Council, the said Lords of the Committee did this day re-
port as their opinion to His Majesty, that the said Act ought
to be disallowed. His Majesty, taking the same into con-
sideration, was pleased, with the advice of his Privy Coun-
cil, to declare his disallowance of the said Act; and pur-
suant to His Majesty's royal pleasure thereupon expressed,
the said Act is hereby disallowed, declared void, and of
none effect ; whereof the Governour or Commander-in-
Chief of His Majesty's said Colony of New-Jersey, for
the time being, and all others whom it may concern, are to
take notice and govern themselves accordingly.

" G. Chetwynd.''

The House adjourned till 9 o'clock to-morrow morning.

Friday, May 19, 1775.

The House met.

The Address to his Excellency was read the second
time, and committed to a Committee of the Whole House.

The House accordingly resolved itself into a Committee
of the Whole House on the Address, and after some time
spent therein, Mr. Speaker resumed the Chair, and Mr.
Fisher, Chairman of the Committee, reported that the
Committee had gone through the Address, and had made
sundry amendments to the same ; and by leave of the
House Mr. Fisher reported the Address with the amend-
ments ; which were read ; and the Address being further
amended in the House, was agreed to.

Ordered, That the said Address as amended and agreed
to, be engrossed.

The House adjourned till three, P. M.

The House met.

The engrossed Address to his Excellency was read and
compared.

Ordered, nem. con., That Mr. Speaker do sign the
same.

Ordered, That Mr. Tucker and Mr. Hinchman do wait
upon his Excellency, and desire to be informed when his
Excellency will be attended by the House with their Ad-
dress.

Colonel Ford had leave of absence on urgent business.

Mr. Tucker reported that Mr. Hinchman and himself
waited on his Excellency according to order, and that his
Excellency was pleased to say the House should hear from
him.

599

ASSEMBLY OF NEW-JERSEY, MAY, 1775.

600

The House adjourned til! nine o'clock to-morrow morn-
ing. _

_ ¥T Saturday, May 20, 1775.

Ihe House met.

A Message from his Excellency, by Mr. Deputy Secre-
tary Pettit :

Gentlemen :

As the Honourable Samuel Smith, Esquire, has resigned
his office of Treasurer of the Western Division, I now in-
form you that I have, with the advice of the Council,
appointed Joseph Smith, Esquire, to that office ; which
appointment, I doubt not, will be to your satisfaction.

Wv. Franklin.

Burlington, May 20, 1775.

Which was read ; and thereupon a certified copy of the
Bond entered into by the said Joseph Smith, Esq., being
laid before the House, executed according to law,

Resolved, That this House is entirely satisfied with the
security therein mentioned.

It also appearing that the late Treasurer hath paid into
the hands of the said Joseph Smith, Esquire, the sum of
Six Thousand One Hundred and Sixty-Six Pounds Four-
teen Shillings and Eight Pence, the balance of the said
late Treasurer's accounts, as settled by the Committees of
the Council and this House, together with all books, pa-
pers, &.C., belonging to the Colony :

Resolved, That it is the opinion of this House that the
late Treasurer's Bond be taken off the files, cancelled, and
delivered to him.

It also appearing that the Chest heretofore used for keep-
ing the publick money, &ic, is private property,

Ordered, That the present Treasurer do procure a pro-
per and strong Iron Chest for that purpose ; and upon his
exhibiting an account of the expense thereof,

Resolved, That this House will make provision to defray
the said expense.

A Message from his Excellency, by Mr. Deputy Secre-
tary Pettit:

Mr. Speaker:

His Excellency is in the Council-Chamber, and requires
the immediate attendance of the House.

Whereupon Mr. Speaker left the Chair, and with the
House went to wait upon his Excellency in the Council-
Chamber, when he addressed the Governour in the words,
or to the effect following :

"I am ordered by the House of Assembly to deliver to
your Excellency their Address, which being different from
my sentiments, I think it necessary thus publickly to de-
clare it ; a step I should not have taken, had I been permit-
ted to enter my dissent on the Minutes of the House."

Having delivered the Address, and being returned, Mr.
Speaker resumed the Chair, and reported that the House
had waited on his Excellency with their Address, in these
words, viz :

To his Excellency William Franklix, Esquire, Captain-
General, Governour, and Commander-in-Chief in and
over His Majesty's Colony o/*Nova-C;esarea, or New-
Jersey, and Territories thereon depending in America,
Chancellor and Vice- Admiral in the same, 8fC.

The humble Address of the Representatives of the said
Colony, in General Assembly convened :

May it please your Excellency :

We, His Majesty's loyal and dutiful subjects, the Repre-
sentatives of the Colony of New-Jersey, in General As-
sembly convened, have taken under our consideration your
Excellency's Speech at the opening of the session, together
with the Resolution of the House of Commons accompa-
nying the same, containing a proposition for accommodating
of the unhappy differences at present subsisting between
our Parent Country and the Colonies.

As the Continental Congress is now sitting to consider of
the present critical situation of American affairs ; and as
this House has already appointed Delegates for that pur-
pose, we should have been glad that your Excellency had
postponed the present meeting until their opinion could
be had upon the Resolution now offered for our considera-

tion, and to which we have no doubt that a proper atten-
tion will be paid ; more especially as we cannot suppose
you to entertain a suspicion that the present House has the
least design to desert the common cause, in which all Ame-
rica appears to be both deeply interested and firmly united, so
far as separately, and without the advice of a body in which
all are represented, to adopt a measure of so much impor-
tance. Until this opinion is known, we can only gire your
Excellency our present sentiments, being fully of opinion
that we shall pay all proper respect to, and abide by, the
united voice of the Congress on the present occasion.

Your Excellency is pleased to tell us that this Resolu-
tion " has had a variety of interpretations put on it ;" " that
scarcely any have seen it in its proper light;" and you
proceed to give us that explanation of the design and occa-
sion, which you apprehend will enable us and our constitu-
ents to judge how far the plan it contains ought to be ac-
quiesced in, and what steps it may be prudent to take in
the present situation. We confess that your Excellency
has put a construction on the proposition, which appears
to us to be new; and if we would be of the opinion that
the Resolution "holds no proposition beyond the avowal
of the justice, the equity, and the propriety of subjects of
the same State contributing, according to their abilities and
situation, to the publick burden," and did not convey to us
the idea of submitting the disposal of all our property to
others in whom we have no choice, it is more than proba-
ble that we should gladly embrace the opportunity of set-
tling this unhappy dispute.

Most Assemblies on the Continent have, at various
times, acknowledged and declared to the world their wil-
lingness not only to defray the charge of the administration
of justice, and the support of the civil Government, but
also to contribute, as they have hitherto done when consti-
tutionally called upon, to every reasonable and necessary
expense for the defence, protection, and security of the
whole British Empire ; and this Colony in particular hath
always complied with his Majesty's requisitions for those
purposes. And we do now assure your Excellency that we
shall always be ready, according to our abilities and to the
utmost of our power, to maintain the interests of His Ma-
jesty and of our Parent State. If, then, your Excellency's
construction be right, and if a proposal "of this nature"
will, as you are pleased to inform us, be received by His
Majesty with every possible indulgence, we have hopes
that the declaration we now make will be looked on by His
Majesty and his Ministers, not only to be similar to what is
required from us, but also to be a " basis of a negotia-
tion" on which the present differences may be accommo-
dated— an event which we most ardently wish for.

We have considered the Resolution of the House of
Commons. We would not wish to come to a determination
that might be justly called precipitate, in the present alarm-
ing situation of affairs ; but if we mistake not, this Reso-
lution contains no new proposal. It appears to us to be
the same with one made to the Colonies the year preceding
the passing of the late Stamp Act ; at least it is not mate-
rially different therefrom. America then did not comply
with it ; and though we are sincerely disposed to make use
of all proper means to obtain the favour of His Majesty
and the Parliament of Great Britain, yet we cannot, in
our present opinion, comply with a proposition which we
really apprehend to give up the privileges of freemen ; nor
do we want any time to consider whether we shall submit
to that which, in our apprehension, will reduce us and our
constituents to a state little better than that of slavery.

By the Resolution now offered, if assented to, we think
we shall be, to all intents and purposes, as fully and effectu-
ally taxed by our fellow-subjects in Great Britain, where
we have not any representation, as by any of the late Acts
of the British Parliament under which we have been ag-
grieved; of which we have complained; and from which
we have prayed to be relieved; and that, too, in a much
greater degree, perhaps, than by all those Acts put together.
We cannot consent to. subject the property of our consti-
tuents to be taken away for services and uses, of the pro-
priety of which we have no right to judge, while to us are
only left the ways and means of raising the money. We
have always thought and contended, that we had a right to
dispose of our property ourselves; and we have always
cheerfully yielded our assistance to His Majesty in that

601

ASSEMBLY OF NEW-JERSEY, MAY, 1775.

b02

way, when the exigencies of affairs required us so lo do,
and lie has condescended to ask it from us. It is the freedom
of granting, as well as the mode of raising moneys, which
this House cannot voluntarily part with, without betraying
the just rights of the Constitution. The present Resolu-
tion seems to require us to raise a proportion which a Par-
liament of Great Britain may at any time think fit to grant.
At this time we cannot form any judgment, either of the
extent of the proposition, or of the consequences in which

wards effecting a reconciliation. 1 am persuaded that if a
disposition of this sort is manifested, and the proper steps
are pursued by those who have it in their power to take the
lead in this important affair on the part of America, it may
be easily accomplished to mutual satisfaction. His Ma-
jesty, I am sure, vyould wish to avoid the shedding of the
blood of his American, as much as that of his British sub-
jects. They must be all equally dear to him, if they are
equally dutiful. The Americans, in general, have been,

the good people of the Colony may be involved by our and 1 hope will ever prove as well disposed to His Majesty
assent to a provision so indeterminate ; for it appears to
us to be impossible to judge what proportion or share the
people can bear, until we know what situation they will be
in when any sum is intended to be raised.

Upon the whole, though sincerely desirous to give every
mark of duty and attachment to the King, and to show all
due reverence to the Parliament of our Parent State, we
cannot, consistent with our real sentiments, and the trust

and Family, as the subjects of any other part of the Do-
minions.

The House adjourned till three, P. M.

The House met.

His Excellency having laid before the House a copy of
the Resolution of the honourable the House of Commons

reposed in us, assent to a proposal big with consequences . Great Britain, of the 20th of February, 1775, con-
taining a plan formed for the accommodation of the unhap-
py differences between our Parent State and the Colonies ;
which plan, under the present circumstances, this House
could not comply with and adopt; and yet this House
being desirous of making use of all proper means to effect
a reconciliation, do recommend it to their Delegates to lay
the same plan before the Continental Congress for their
consideration.

Ordered, That Mr. Mehelm and Mr. Elmer do go to

destructive to the publick welfare ; and hope that the jus
tice of our Parent Country will not permit us to be driven
into a situation, the prospect of which fills us with anxiety
and horrour.

There may be much truth in the observation, " that
mankind generally act not according to right, but according
to present interest, and most according to present passion."
Yet we trust that our conduct on the present occasion is

neither influenced by the one nor the other; and we per-
suade ourselves that your Excellency is so well acquainted t,ie Council, and inquire whether they have any business
with the people you govern, that it is quite unnecessary for before them ; if not, that this House proposes to apply to

us to make use of any means to convince you of the injus-
tice of the charge, " that the Americans have deeper views,
and mean to throw of all dependance on Great Britain,
and to get rid of every control of their Legislature."

We heartily pray that the supreme Disposer of events,
in whose hands are the hearts of all men, may avert the
calamities impending over us, and influence our Sovereign,
his Ministry, and the Parliament, so as to induce them to
put a stop to the effusion of the blood of the Colonists,
who wish always to look upon their fellow-subjects in Great
Britain as their brethren, and are really desirous to pro-
mote their interests and happiness upon any reasonable
terms ; and it will give us great pleasure to find your Ex-
cellency amongst those who, by just and proper representa-
tions of the dispositions of the inhabitants of these Colo-
nies, shall assist in settling of the present unhappy differ-
ences. By order of the House :

Cortland Skinner, Speaker.

House of Assembly, May 19, 1775.

To which his Excellency was pleased to make the follow-
ing Answer:
Gentlemen :

1 have done my duty. I lost no time in laying before

his Excellency for a dismission.

Mr. Mehelm reported that Mr. Elmer and himself waited
on the Council accordingly, who said they had nothing
before them.

Ordered, That Mr. Fisher and Mr. Lawrence do wait
upon his Excellency, and acquaint him that the House hav-
ing gone through the business, is desirous of a dismission.

Mr. Fisher reported, that Mr. Lawrence and himself
waited upon the Governour accordingly, who was pleased
to say the House should hear from him presently.

A Message from his Excellency by Mr. Deputy Secre-
tary Pettit.

A Message to the Assembly.
Gentlemen :

It has been my unhappiness almost every session du-
ring the existence of the present Assembly, that a majority
of the members of the House have suffered themselves
to be persuaded to seize on every opportunity of arraign-
ing my conduct, or fomenting some dispute, let the occa-
sion be ever so trifling, or let me be ever so careful to
avoid giving any just cause of offence. This, too, has
been done with such an eagerness in the promoters of it as
can only be accounted for on a supposition that they are
either actuated by unmanly private resentment, or by a

you the propositions I had received for an amicable accom- conviction that their whole political consequence depends
modation of the present unhappy differences. I gave you upon a contention with their Governour. Such effusions
as full and candid an explanation of them as I was autho- of ill-humour have never yet, however, nor is it likely they

rized or enabled to do. Whether those propositions or
my explanation of them did or did not contain any thing
new, is but little to the purpose. The question is, whether
they ought or ought not to be approved, either in whole or
in part, or be made the ground of a negotiation ; and
whether, in the latter case, every Assembly on the Conti-
nent ought not to take some active measures to effect an
end so desirable. In stating the matter to you, I could
have no suspicion that you did not think yourselves com-
petent to the business, and were necessarily to wait the
determination of another body. It was but the last session
you assured me that you would not "suffer any of the
rights vested in you by the Constitution to be wrested out
of your hands by any person or persons whatsoever." I
shall forbear to point out the inconsistency of this Address

ever will, produce any benefit to the Province; on the con-
trary, they have occasioned great delays and obstructions
to the publick business, and consequently been attended
with very considerable expense to the people.

In this light, and in no other, can I look upon the pro-
ceedings of your House with respect to the matter men-
tioned in your Message of Thursday. A member receives
a pamphlet from England, containing, as is pretended, an
extract of a letter from me to the Secretary of State. What
does he do with it ? Does he come to me, or does he write
to me on the subject, or does he even request any other
person to inquire of me whether the extract is genuine or
not? I\o, he treasures it upf till the House meets; but either
through motives of shame or fear, he does not choose to
appear openly in the affair himself. He looks around for

with that declaration. Nor shall I aim to convince you of some person to take the odium of the intended business off

the wrong ideas you have formed of those propositions.
Were they ever so rightly understood, or ever so well ap-
proved by you, yet, to judge by your own declaration, it
could be of no avail. The times are indeed greatly alter-
ed. I shall be happy to see some proper attempts made
to mend them. My representations and endeavours, from
the first commencement of this unnatural dispute to this
day, have not been, nor shall they ever be, wanting to-

nis hands, and presently finds one exactly fitted to his pur-
pose. The pamplet is accordingly laid before the Assem-
bly, the extract is read, inserted at large on the Minutes,
ordered a second reading, and after it had been on record
two days, the House at length thought proper to send me
a message requesting 1 would be pleased to inform them
" whether the said extract contains a true representation of
the words or substance of the letter, or any part of the

603

CORRESPONDENCE, PROCEEDINGS, &c, MAY, 1775.

604

letter by me written relative to the proceedings of the last
session of Assembly."

If such a procedure does not manifest a premeditated
affront, and an intention to do me a personal injury, let
any man judge, who considers the several steps which have
been taken in this affair, the many falsehoods which have
been industriously propagated respecting the contents of
the letter, and the present turbulent state of the Province.

Some, if not all of you, must have known that the pamph-
let though called the Parliamentary Register, was not a
publication authorized by Parliament, or of any more au-
thority than a common magazine or newspaper. Nor can
I doubt but that some of you must have seen or heard that
what was lately published in that work, as the Speech of
the Earl of Chatlmm, was publickly denied by his Lordship.
It is well known to be as much the practice in England to
write and publish speeches which were never spoke, as it
is in America to publish extracts of letters which were
never wrote by the persons to whom they are attributed.

Besides, gentlemen, as to the particular extract in ques-
tion, 1 cannot but flatter myself that I am not so remark-
able for writing nonsense and contradictions, but that you
might have at least doubted the genuineness of the extract
when you saw on the very face of it so glaring an absur-
dity as could not be supposed to have come from the pen
of any man of common sense. Would you not have
thought me extremely deficient in the common marks of
respect which is due from one gentleman to another, and
much more from one branch of the Legislature to another,
had I seen a pretended extract of a letter, said to be wrote
by you to your Agent, or from him to you, containing evi-
dent nonsense and absurdity, and should order it to be read
in Council, and entered on the minutes without making any
inquiry as to the authenticity of it, until two days after ?
Would you not have construed such conduct into a designed
affront, or suspected that it was calculated to expose you
to ridicule, or to promote some intended injury, more
especially in times so circumstanced as the present.

I cannot think that you have the least right to a sight of
any part of my correspondence with the King's Ministers,
and I am convinced that you would deem it a very impro-
per request, were I to ask you to communicate to me your
correspondence with the Agent of this Province, at the
Court of Great Britain. I will, however, thus far comply
with your request as to assure you that " the said extract
does not contain a true representation of the words or sub-
stance of my letter;" but had you, before you suffered it
to be entered on your Minutes, applied to me, either in
a private or publick way, I should have had not the least
scruple to have let you seen the whole of what I wrote
" relative to the proceedings of the last session of Assem-
bly." It has ever been my rule, as it is my duty, to repre-
sent matters exactly in the light as they appear to me from
the best information I can obtain at the time of writing my
despatches. If I afterwards find that I have been mista-
ken in any thing, I never fail to rectify the mistake as soon
as discovered.

On the whole, gentlemen, I have very particular reasons
to complain of the treatment I have received on account
of this pretended extract. Great pains have been taken
to propagate an idea that I wrote a letter to England
inimical to the Province or to America in general. After
it is produced nothing of the kind appeals, nor should I
have the least objection to the publication of my whole
correspondence with the King's Ministers. You have on
your Minutes a copy of a letter from Lord Shclburnc,
which will shew that the representations I made of the dis-
position and conduct of the people of this Province, at the
time of the Stamp Act, a time somewhat similar to the
present, were, to use his Lordship's words, " much to its
honour." My sentiments respecting the present transac-
tions I have no scruple to declare do not entirely coincide
with those of either party. But I trust that those who
know me best will do me the justice to allow that no office
or honour in the power of the Crown to bestow, will ever
influence me to forget or neglect the duty I owe my Coun-
try, nor the most furious rage of the most intemperate
zealots induce me to swerve from the duty I owe His Ma-
jesty. Wm. Franklin.

1. Resolved, That the laying of the Parliamentary
Register before this House, containing a publication said
to be an extract of a Letter from Governour Franklin to
Lord Dartmouth, so far from doing or carrying an appear-
ance of intending an injury to the character of his Excel-
lency, or deserving of those personal reflections contained
in his Message to the House of this day, had, in the opin-
ion of this House, a tendency to do him real service, by
giving him an opportunity of exculpating himself from the
charge of writing the said Letter or extract, if the charge
had been groundless.

2. Resolved, That Mr. Fisher, Mr. Kinsey, Mr. Tucker,
Mr. Paxon, and Mr. Hinchman, be a Committee to con-
sider of the said Message, and make report to the next
sitting of Assembly.

On the question, Whether the House agrees to the said
Resolutions or not ? It passed in the affirmative :

Yeas.
Mr. Combs,
Mr. Wetherill,
Mr. Dunham,
Mr. Taylor,
Mr. Lawrence,
Mr. Garritse,
Mr. Fisher,
Mr. Rey,

Nay. Mr. Barton.

Yeas.
Mr. Dey,
Mr. Demarest,
Mr. Winds,
Mr. Kinsey,
Mr. Hevrlings,
Air. Paxon,
Mr. Sykes,
Mr. Hinchman,

Yeas.
Mr. Holme,
Mr. Hand,
Mr. Eldridge,
Mr. Tucker,
Mr. Mehelm.
Mr. Shcppard,
Mr. Elmer,
Mr, Pettit.

A Message from his Excellency, by Mr. Deputy Sec-
retary Pettit.

Mr. Speaker : His Excellency is in the Council Cham-
ber, and requires the immediate attendance of this House.

Whereupon Mr. Speaker, with the House, waited upon
his Excellency, who was pleased to prorogue the General
Assembly to the 20th day of June next, then to meet at
Burlington.

NEW-YORK COMMITTEE.

The Committee met, by adjournment, Monday, 15th
May, 1775. Present:

Isaac Low,
P. V. B. Livingston,
Alex. McDougall,
Leonard Lispenard,
John Broome,
Joseph Hallett,
Gabriel H. Ludlow,
Peter Van Schaack,
Henry Romsen,
Peter T. Curtenius,
Abraham Brasher,
Abraham P. Lott,
Joseph Bull,
Thomas Ivcrs,
Hercules Mulligan,
John Anthony,
John White,

Theophilus Anthony,
William Goforth,
William Denning,
William W. Gilbert,
John Berrian,
Gabriel W. Ludlow,
Edward Fleming,
John Do Lancey,
Frederick Jay,
William W. Ludlow,
Lancaster Burling,
John Lasher,
George Janeway,
James Bookman,
Samuol Verplanck,
Richard Yates,
D^vid Clarkson,

Gorrot Ketletas,
Cornelius Clopper,
John Reade,
J. Van Cortlandt,
Jacobus Van Zandt,
Gerardus Duyckinck,
John Marston,
Hamilton Young,
Abram. Brinkerhoff,
Benjamin Holme,
David Beekman,
Evert Banker,
Robert B iv.
Nicholas Bogart,
William Laight,
Daniel Phenix,
John Imlay.

A Letter, dated Philadelphia, 13th May, 1775, from
John Lamb, received and read.

Mr. P. V. B. Livingston, from the Committee of Cor-
respondence reported and read, the draft of an Answer to

a Letter, dated Tryon County, 19th April, 1775: also an
Answrer to one received from Thomas Barclay, dated Phi-
ladelphia, May 11th, 1775, which being approved of,

Ordered, That the same be forwarded.

Mr. Remsen moved, seconded by Mr. Laight, in the
words following :

Whereas the inhabitants of this City have reposed a
trust of great importance in this Committee, which we are
bound in honour to discharge with fidelity ; and as the pur-
poses of our appointment may in a great measure be defeated
unless the members are in a situation to be assembled on
sudden emergencies ; I therefore move that it be

Resolved, That no member do absent himself out of
Town longer than forty-eight hours at a time, without
leave first obtained from the Committee, or from the
Chairman ; and that every member be served with a copy
of this Resolve.

The following Address was presented by Captains Lash-
er, Ritzma, Stockholm, Banker, Fleming, and Lott:

We, the subscribers, who, by the unanimous consent and
approbation of many of our fellow -citizens, have formed dif-

605

CORRESPONDENCE, PROCEEDINGS, fcc, MAY, 1775.

606

ferent companies of Foot, in order to co-operate with the
rest of our fellow-citizens in carrying into execution the
General Association of the late Continental Congress, do
hereby offer our service to the General Committee, cheer-
fully to take our tour of duty in such military services as
the Committee may direct, and to be otherwise subservient
to the end of their appointment.

John Lasher, Chris. Banker,

Rodol. Ritzma, Edward Fleming,

Andrew Stockholm, Abraham P. Lott.

Ordered, That the Committee of Correspondence be
directed to draft an Answer to the above Address.

Committeo Chamber, Now- York, May 15, 1775.

Resolved, That copies of the Association be lodged at
the following places in the respective Wards in this City,
to wit :

In the South- Ward, at the house of Mr. John Lasher;

Dock- Ward, at the house of Mr. Gerardus Duyckinck ;

East- Ward, at the house of Mr. John Imlay ;

West-Ward, at the house of Mr. Peter T. Curtenius ;

North- Ward, at the house of Mr. John White;

Montgomerie- Ward, the house of Mr. Petrus Bijvanck ;

Out- Ward, at the house of Mr. Thomas Ivers ;
To the intent, that all such persons who have not yet
subscribed the Association, may with the greater conveni-
ence do it. And it is hereby recommended to them to
make their subscriptions as speedily as possible, as returns
of all such as decline are to be made to the Committee.
By order of the Committee :

Isaac Low, Chairman, j

NEW-YORK COMMITTEE TO THE CONTINENTAL CONGRESS.

New-York, May 15, 1775.

Gentlemen : We have this moment received by express
from Albany, the within authentick intelligence of the
fortress of Ticonderoga having been surprised and taken
by a detachment of Provincials from Connecticut and the
Massachusetts-Bay. And as we do not conceive ourselves
authorized to give any opinion upon a matter of such im-
portance, we have thought proper to refer it to the Con-
gress ; and that the people of Albany may be acquainted
with the sentiments of that Assembly as early as possible,
their express, who is the bearer hereof, will carry any
despatches the Congress may think proper to send on the
occasion to the City of Albany, by a short route from Phi-
ladelphia.

We have already wrote to the Committee of Albany in
answer to their letters to us, referred to in the enclosed ;
but it seems our letters were not come to hand.

We are, gentlemen, with great respect, your obedient
humble servants. By order of the Committee :

Isaac Low, Chairman.

The Honourable Peyton Randolph, Esquire, President of
the Continental Congress.

ALBANY COMMITTEE TO THE NEW-YORK COMMITTEE.

Albany, May 12, 1775.

Gentlemen: We applied to you on the third instant,
for your advice on an application to us for supplying with
provisions, &c, some Troops from Connecticut, on their
intended attack against Ticonderoga, &c, and it is to our
great regret that we have hitherto received no answer,
although we pressed it, and have since wrote to you on the
subject, by Colonel Schuyler, since which time frequent
applications have been made to us on the same subject;
and as we are unacquainted with the sentiments of our
Colony on this very important enterprise, we have declined
interfering.

We have just now received the original of the enclosed
copy ; by its contents you will see that they have succeed-
ed in surprising Ticonderoga, and that a requisition is made
for men and provisions in order to enable them to repair
and hold that fortress. Mr. Broxvn, who was personally
in the action, brought the letter, and made the demand,
says, that the prisoners were on their way to this City ;
but that unless they are immediately assisted, they are
afraid they will be obliged to abandon the fort, and leave
i lie artillery behind, of which there are about two hundred

pieces, great and small. He is dissatisfied with our answer,
and went away abruptly, though we told him the circum-
stances we were in, and that we would immediately despatch
an express to you. We hope you will no longer keep us
in suspense.

As the Troops in Canada will probably endeavour to
retake it, the consequence of this enterprise will probably
involve the northern parts of this Colony in the honours
of war and devastation, and therefore we earnestly' call on
you to furnish us with your advice in this alarming crisis,
immediately, by Captain Barent Ten Eyck, who is sent
express. We are, gentlemen, your humble servants.

By order of the Committee of the City of Albany.
Abraham Yates, Jun., Chairman.

Mr. Isaac Low, Chairman of the Committee, New-York.

ETHAN ALLEN TO THE ALBANY COMMITTEE.

Ticonderoga, May 11, 1775.

Gentlemen : I have the inexpressible satisfaction to
acquaint you that at day-break of the tenth instant, pur-
suant to my directions from sundry leading gentlemen of
Massachusetts-Bay and Connecticut, I took the fortress
of Ticonderoga , with about one hundred and thirty Green
Mountain Boys. Colonel Easton with about forty-seven
valiant soldiers, distinguished themselves in the action.
Colonel Arnold entered the fortress with me side by side.
The guard was so surprised, that contrary to expectation
they did not fire on us, but fled with precipitancy. We
immediately entered the fortress, and took the garrison
prisoners, without bloodshed, or any opposition. They
consisted of one Captain, and a Lieutenant and forty-two
men.

Little more need be said. You know Governour Carle-
ton of Canada will exert himself to retake it ; and as your
County is nearer than any other part of the Colonies, and
as your inhabitants have thoroughly manifested their zeal
in the cause of their Country, I expect immediate assist-
ance from you both in men and provisions. You cannot
exert yourselves too much in so glorious a cause. The
number of men need be more at first, till the other Col-
onies can have time to muster. I am apprehensive of a
sudden and quick attack. Pray be quick to our relief, and
send us five hundred men immediately — fail not. From
your friend and humble servant,

Ethan Allen, Commander of Ticonderoga.

Abraham Yates, Chairman of the Committee, Albany.

NEWBURGH (NEW-YORK) COMMITTEE.

At a meeting of the major part of the Committee of
Correspondence and Observation, for the Precinct of Neic-
burgh, in Orange County, New-York, met agreeable to
adjournment, at the house of Martin Wyganh, on Mon-
day, the 15th of May, 1775: Wolver Ecker, was chosen
Chairman, Cornelius Hasbrouch, Clerk.

This Committee, taking into consideration the present
most alarming situation of our publick affairs, occasioned
by the bloody measures of a wicked Ministry ; and consi-
dering the great utility of a General Association being fully
signed by every male person, from the age of sixteen and
upwards in this Province ; and whereas we have reason to
lament that a number of persons in this Precinct are so
lost to the preservation of themselves and their Country,
that they refuse, or neglect to sign the Association with the
rest of their neighbours, fellow-sufferers, and countrymen
in this Precinct :

1. Resolved, That this Committee, in their several Dis-
tricts, as they, or the major part of them shall agree respec-
tively, be, and are hereby appointed to wait on such person
or persons who have neglected and refused to sign the
said Association, and in the most friendly manner to invite
them to sign the same.

2. Resolved, That in case any person or persons, being
males, and of the age aforesaid, shall refuse to sign the
same, or does not come in and sign the same, on or before
the 29th of this instant, he or they shall, and are hereby
deemed enemies to their Country.

3. Resolved, That any person or persons refusing as
aforesaid, that it is the opinion of this Committee, that no
person or persons whatsoever shall have any kind of con-

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CORRESPONDENCE, PROCEEDINGS, fcc, MAY, 1775.

608

nection or dealings with such person or persona whatso-
ever; and that whosoever shall have any such connection,
ought to be treated in like manner, and be considered as an
enemy to his Country, notwithstanding he or they may
have signed the Association.

4. Resolved, And we do recommend it to all our neigh-
bouring and adjacent Towns, Precincts, Counties, and
Provinces, that they will, in like manner treat such persons
as aforesaid.

5. Resolved, That the names of such person or per-
sons, who shall refuse as aforesaid, shall be made publick
in the Newspapers.

6. Resolved, That any person or persons owning Ne-
groes in this Precinct shall not, on any account whatever,
suffer his or their Negro or Negroes to be absent from his
dwellinghouse or farm, after sun-down, or send them out
in the day time off their farm without a pass ; and in case
any Negroes shall be found absent, contrary to the above
Resolve, (except it be in return with his or their masters
team,) shall be apprehended by any person or persons'
whatsoever, and brought forthwith before any two or more
of this Committee, who shall cause them to receive thirty-
five lashes, or any number less, as the said Committee shall
judge proper.

7. Resolved, That the above Resolves of the Com-
mittee shall be subject to the control of the Provincial
and Continental Congresses, to their approbation and dis-
approbation.

8. Resolved, That we will truly adhere to and obey what-
ever Resolutions the Continental and Provincial Congresses,
or either of them shall resolve and direct, with respect to
this Precinct or other matters which are to be observed in
general, until such times as His Majesty, and his Lords
and Commons shall repeal and disannul all their present
tyrannical acts and measures, and again restore us to our
former liberties and privileges, which, by law and nature
we are entitled to, as natural born subjects.

By order of the Committee:

WOLVER EcKER.

PROVIDENCE (RHODE-ISLAND) TOWN-MEETING.

At a Town-Meeting held at Providence, by adjournment,
on Monday, the fifteenth day of May, A. D. 1775, Mr.
Joseph Brown, Moderator:

Voted, That the doings of the Town Council, on the
matter of the Watch, be approved and accepted, and that
Mr. Zephaniah Andrews be, and is hereby appointed to
build a guard-house and three watch-boxes in this Town,
agreeable to the vote of the Town Council establishing a
Watch, and that the said Mr. Andrews advise with Messrs.
John Brown and Jonathan Arnold on that matter.

Voted, That the master of the Watch, together with
John Brown and Jonathan Arnold, have full power to
direct what instrument or instruments the Watch shall be
provided with from time to time.

Voted unanimously, That the Committee who were ap-
pointed by the Town, at their last meeting, to inquire into
the state and preparation of the several inhabitants of this
Town, in respect to Fire-Arms and other military stores and
accoutrements required by law, as they are not prepared to
make their report at this meeting, be, and they are hereby-
directed to make their report to Colonel John Mathewson,
Edward Thurber, and Jonathan Arnold, who are appoint-
ed by the Town a Committee to receive the same ; and
they, together with the aforesaid Committee, are hereby
appointed and empowered to purchase, at the expense and
on account and risk of the Town, such and so many Arms
as shall appear to them necessary to supply all able-bodied
men who are by said Committee deemed unable to provide
for themselves, and furnish such supplies of military stores
and accoutrements as they judge necessary, under certain
rules and restrictions to be by them made. And that the
said Committee make their report to the Town as soon as
they have completed the business assigned them in this
vote, together with the regulations which shall be by them
made as aforesaid.

And it is further voted. That the said Committee do,
as soon as may be after receiving the Report of the first
Committee as aforesaid, furnish each Captain of the Mi-
litia Companies in this Town with lists of those persons

who live within the limits of their respective Companies,
thai 'ire able to provide themselves with Arms, &c, as the
law requires; and that upon receipt thereof it is recom-
mended to them to strictly adhere to the law, and cause all
such to provide themselves, or exact their fines for each
deficiency.

Voted, That Major Truman and Mr. Paid Allen be a
Committee to make up the whole of the Town's stock of
Powder and Lead, or procure the same to be made into
Cartridges as soon as may be, at the expense of the Town,
and when so made, return the same to the Captains of the
several Military Companies in this Town.

Voted, That the vote passed in town-meeting on the
last Tuesday of August, be reprinted in the Providctui
Gazette.

Worcester, May 21, 1775.

The week before last, the Falcon, sloop-of-war, was
"cruising about Cape Cod, and meeting with a wood sloop
in ballast, seized her, but promising the Skipper to release
him and bis vessel if he would give information of any
vessel that was just arrived from the West-Indies with a
cargo on board ; he at length told the Captain of the Fal-
con that there was a sloop at Dartmouth, which had just
arrived; whereupon the Captain of the Falcon, instead of
releasing the wood sloop, armed and manned her, and sent
her in search of the fVest-lndiaman. They found the
vessel lying at anchor, but her cargo was landed ; how-
ever, they seized her and carried her off, after putting part
of their crew and some guns and ammunition on board.
Notice of this getting on shore, the people fitted out a
third sloop, with about thirty men and two swivel-guns, and
went in pursuit of these royal pirates, whom they came up
with at Martha's Vineyard, where they lay at anchor, at
about a league's distance from each other ; the first surren-
dered without firing a gun ; our people, after putting a
number of hands on board, bore down upon the other,
which, by this time, had got under sail ; but the people in
the Dartmouth sloop coming up with her, the pirates fired
upon them; the fire was immediately returned, by which
three of the pirates were wounded, among whom was the
commanding officer. Our people boarded her immedi-
ately, and having taken both sloops, carried them into
Dartmouth, and sent the prisoners to Cambridge ; from
thence nine of them were yesterday brought to this Town,

EXTRACT OF A LETTER FROM NEWPORT, RHODE-ISLAND,
DATED MAY 10, 1775.

Last Friday the Falcon, Captain Lindsey, took two
sloops at Bedford, with intention of sending them to the
Islands near the Vineyard, to carry from thence a parcel
of sheep to Boston. The Bedford people resented this
conduct in such a manner as to immediately fit out two
sloops, with thirty men on board, and last Saturday retook
them both, with fifteen men on board. In the action there
were three of the men-of-war sailors badly wounded, one
of whom is since dead. The other thirteen they immedi-
ately sent to Taunton Jail.

groton (Massachusetts) committee.

Groton, May 15, 1775.

The inhabitants of Groton in town-meeting assembled,
the Reverend Samuel Dana offered that to the Town with
regard to his political principles and conduct with which
the Town voted themselves fully satisfied, and that he
ought to enjoy the privileges of society in common with
other members; and we hope this, with the following by
him subscribed, will be fully satisfactory to the publick.

Oliver Prescott, Isaac Farnsworth,
James Prescott, Moses Child,
Josiah Sarteli.,
Committee of Correspondence for Groton.

" 1, the subscriber, being deeply affected with the miseries
brought on this Country by a horrid thirst for ill-got wealth
and unconstitutional power; and lamenting my unhappi-
ness in being left to adopt principles in politicks different
from the generality of my countrymen, and thence to con-
duct in a manner that has but too justly excited the jealousy

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CORRESPONDENCE, PROCEEDINGS, &c, MAY, 1775.

610

and resentment of the true sons of liberty against me,
earnestly desirous at the same time to give them all the
satisfaction in my power, do hereby sincerely ask forgive-
ness of all such for whatever 1 have said or done that had
the least tendency to the injury of my Country, assuring
them that it is my full purpose, in my proper sphere, to
unite with them in all those laudable and fit measures that
have been recommended by the Continental and Provin-
cial Congresses, for the salvation of this Country, hoping
my future conversation and conduct will fully prove the
uprightness of my present professions.

" Samuel Dana.

•'Groton, May 22, 1775."

EXTRACT OF A LETTER FROM GOVERNOUR GAGE TO LORD
DARTMOUTH, DATED BOSTON, MAY 15, 1775.

They have been enlisting among the country people as
many men as could be collected at forty shillings a man,
and we are told they are enlisting them in the other Prov-
inces. If they proceed in their movements it seems im-
possible to be long before we again come to blows ; and
from the beginning I have perceived it was the wish and
design of the leaders here to bring affairs to that crisis ;
but so to manage it as to bring the rest of the Colonies to

• • •

support them. It is astonishing how they have duped the
whole Continent.

TO THE MASSACHUSETTS COMMITTEE OF SAFETY.

To the Honourable the Committee of Safety for the Prov-
ince of the Massachusetts-Bay:

The Petition of William Bent and others, humbly
sheiceth :

That from various hands we, the subscribers, have ob-
tained beating orders, and have respectively enlisted a
company of men, consisting of fifty-six privates ; and being
all from the same neighbourhood, and doing duty along our
seacoast, we are desirous of being immediately formed
into a regiment.

And we beg leave most earnestly to move to your
Honours, that Colonel Lemuel Robinson, of Dorchester,
may be appointed to take the command of us as our Col-
onel. From the acquaintance we have with this gentle-
man, and from his known military character, we are induced
to think that he is highly worthy the honour and the trust,
and therefore are very desirous of being under his com-
mand.

Besides, we are concerned for the honour of the County
of Suffolk. Present appearances render it suspicious that
there are not gentlemen enough in said County sufficiently
capacitated to command the Companies raised in it — a
thought too degrading. And we are apprehensive that we,
or a part of us, shall be put under the command of officers
from other Counties ; which will be very disagreeable, not
only to us, but to our Companies also.

We therefore pray, that for the honour of the County,
and for the peace and good order of our Companies, Colonel
Iiemuel Robinson may have the command of us. And as
in duty bound, will ever pray.

William Bent,

Elijah Vose,

Seth Turner,

John Vinton,

Silas Wild,

Jacob Gould,

Joseph Trefont,

Jotham Loring,

James Lincoln,

Job Cushing,
May 15, 1775.

Milton.

Braintree.

i Weymouth.

i Hingh
Cohasset.

am.

Ham Durant, and William Pierse, now enlisted soldiers in
the Provincial service, were all of them apprentices to your
petitioners, and have attained so great a knowledge in the
art of paper making, that their attendance on that business
is absolutely necessary to its being carried on ; that they
have done the principal part of the work at your petition-
ers' mills for two years past ; and unless they are released
from the service they are now in, it is impossible for your
petitioners to continue this so useful and necessary branch
of American manufactures. Wherefore, the petitioners
pray that the said John Salter, James Colder, William
Durant, and William Pierse, may be, by order of this
honourable Congress, dismissed as soon as may be from the
service of the Provincial Army. And your petitioners, as
in duty bound, shall ever pray. John Boice,

Hugh McLean.

May 15, 1775.

JOSEPH PRIME AND OTHERS TO THE MASSACHUSETTS
COMMITTEE OF SAFETY.

Berwick, May 15, 1775.

Gentlemen : This day, on our waiting on Major Wood,
on his march to Head-Quarters, we are informed that one
Alexander Scammell is appointed Major of the Regiment
now raising in the County of York. Mr. Scammell lives
in Ntw-Ilampshire, and has no property in Berwick or
the County of York. We being military officers in said
County of York, not attending the County meeting in ad-
vising to the field officers, do approve of the choice at said
meeting, that is, Johnson Moulton, First Colonel ; J. S.
Scammon, Lieutenant-Colonel ; Daniel Wood, Major.

We are, gentlemen, with esteem, yours, Sic.

Joseph Prime, Joseph Pray, Jun.,

Jona. Hamilton, Jun., Mark Lord.
To the Committee of Safety at Cambridge, Sic, &tc.

PETITION OF JOHN BOICE AND HUGH M'LEAN.

To the Honourable the Congress of the Province of the
Massachusetts-Bay, assembled at Watertown :

The Petition of John Boice und Hugh McLean, of
Milton, humbly shcivcth :

That your petitioners carry on the business of manufac-
turers of Paper at Milton, which has been deemed of great
utility to the publick ; that John Suiter, James Calder, flil-

Fourth Series. — Vol. ii. 39

JEDEDIAH PREBLE TO THE COMMITTEE OF SAFETY.

Falmouth, May 15, 1775.

Honoured Gentlemen : These wait on you by Colonel
Phinney, who brought me all the papers necessary for
enlisting a Regiment in the County of Cumberland. 1
advised with the Committee of Correspondence, who was
of opinion it would be difficult for our County to spare a
Regiment to be moved out of the Province of Maine, as
we lay much exposed to the Navy by sea, and the Indians
and French on our back settlements, if they should be em-
ployed against us ; but should be glad to do every thing in
our power for the defence of our just rights and dearer
liberties. Our men are zealous in the cause of their Coun-
try, and ready to venture every thing for the defence of it.
Colonel March informs me your Honours have appointed
him a Colonel, and gave him orders to raise a Regiment
in this County, and to appoint all his officers ; this he ac-
quainted me with after I had delivered Colonel Phinney
the papers back again, which he brought to me. It is im-
possible we can spare two Regiments out of this County,
and they have both made considerable progress ; am much
afraid there will be some difficulty in settling the affair. 1
am persuaded the men in general would prefer Colonel
Phinney, and so should I for that reason, as I look on
Colonel Phinney to be equal to Colonel March in every
respect.

Should have done myself the honour to have waited on
you in person, but am still in a poor state of health, and
so exercised with the gout that I cannot bear my shoes.
I purpose to visit the Camp whenever I am able to un-
dergo the fatigue of so long a journey. I wish courage
and conduct in our officers, resolution and a spirit of obe-
dience in our soldiery, and a speedy end of all our troubles.
I am your Honours' most obedient humble servant,

Jedediah Preble.

LETTER TO THE EASTERN INDIANS.

In Provincial Congress, Watertown, May 15, 1775.

Friends and good Brothers : We, the Delegates of
the Colony of the Massachusetts-Bay, being come together
in Congress to consider what may be best for you and our-
selves to do to get rid of the slavery designed to be brought

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CORRESPONDENCE, PROCEEDINGS, &c, MAY, 1775.

612

upon us, have thought it our duty to write you the follow-
ing Letter :

Brothers, the great wickedness of such as should he
our friends, but are our enemies, (we mean the Ministry ol
(ireat Britain.) have laid deep plots to take away our
liberty and your liberty. They want to get all our money;
make us pay it to them when they never earned it ; to make
you and us their servants, and let us have nothing to eat,
drink, or wear, but what they say we shall, and prevent
us from having guns and powder to use and kill our deer
and wolves, and other game, or to send to you for you to
kill your game with, and to get skins and furs to trade with
us for what you want. Rut we hope soon to be able to
supply you with both guns and powder of our own making.

We have petitioned to England for you and us, and told
them plainly we want nothing but our own, and don't want
to hurt them ; but they won't hear us, and have great ships
and their men with guns to make us give up, and kill us,
and have killed some of our men; but we have drove them
back and beat them, and killed a great many of their men.
The Englishmen of all the Colonies, from Nova-Scotia to
Georgia, have firmly resolved to stand together and oppose
them. Our liberty and your liberty is the same. We
are brothers, and what is for our good is for your good ;
and we, by standing together, shall make those wicked men
afraid, and overcome them, and all be freemen. Captain
Goldthwait has given up Fort Pownall to our enemies.
We are angry at it, and we hear you are angry with him,
and we don't wonder at it. We want to know what you,
our good brothers, want from us of clothing or warlike
stores, and we will supply you as fast as we can. We will
do all for you we can, and fight to save you any time, and
hope none of your men, or the Indians in Canada, will
join with our enemies. You may have a great deal of good
influence on them. Our good brothers, the Indians at
Stockbridge, all join with us, and some of their men have
enlisted as soldiers, and we have given them that enlisted
each one a blanket and a ribbon, and they will be paid
when they are from home in the service, and if any of you
are willing to enlist we will do the same for you. We
have sent Captain John Lane to you for that purpose, and
he will show you his orders for raising one Company of
your men to join with us in the war with your and our
enemies.

Brothers, we humbly beseech that God, who lives above,
and who does what is right here below, to be your friend,
and bless you, and to prevent the designs of those wicked
men from hurting you or us.

Brothers, if you let Mr. John Preble know what things
you want, he will take care to inform us, and we will do
the best for you that we can.

J 'ottd. That the Town recommend the use of fresh Fish
to the inhabitants, twice a week at least.

TOWN-MEETING, PORTSMOUTH, NEW-H AMPSHIRE.

Extracts of sundry Votes passed at a Town-Meeting
held at the North Meeting-House in Portsmouth, May 15,
1775:

Voted, That the Town will aid and assist the Commit-
tee that is or shall be chosen in behalf of this Town, to
preserve the peace and order of it, whenever the Com-
mittee shall judge occasion may require.

And that this Committee be fully empowered to inquire
touching any obnoxious persons who may flee to this Town
for an asylum, and that they shall judge whether it is ex-
pedient for any such refugees to reside here or depart from
it ; and any inhabitant of this Town who shall be obnox-
ious, shall be only accountable to the Committee for their
conduct.

Voted, That no other persons but the Committee shall
concern with any such refugees ; but if any person shall
know of any such obnoxious persons coming into Town,
the earliest notice thereof should be given the Committee.

Voted, That the Committee be empowered to call be-
fore them, and upon proper evidence to pass censure upon,
any inhabitants of this Town who shall dare to transgress
any of the preceding votes, or in any manner to disturb the
peace of the Town.

Voted, That it is recommended to the inhabitants of
this Town to refrain from purchasing any Lamb that shall
be killed before the first day of August next, and that they
kill no Lambs before that time.

COMMITTEE AND SELECTMEN OF HARLOW TO THE PROVIN-
CIAL COMMITTEE OE NEW-HAMPSHIRE.

M.irlow, N. H., M tj l.">, 1770.

We received your letter inviting us to send a Deputy in
our behalf to represent us at a Congress at Exeter, on the
1 "7 th instant, to consult on the affairs of this Government,
and adopt such plan as may be most expedient to preserve
the rights and privileges of this and the other Colonies. After
notice, we met and considered the matters, and our own cir-
cumstances, and our poverty is such that at present we are
not able to support a Deputy at said Congress. But being
well-wishers to the continuance of pur rights and privil
both civil and sacred, we have chosen us a Committee of
Correspondence with the other Committees of the other
Towns in said Province, and we do hereby acquaint you
of our free and voluntary will and resolution, with the
hazard of our lives and interests to assist in the defence of
the same with our neighbouring Colonies; and we do here-
by commit and entrust the consulting of the measures to
be proceeded in to your wise and prudent conduct, under
God, considering him as the alone Governour of men under
him ; and we hope and trust that God will give wisdom and
understanding and strength according to the troubles and
trials of the day in which we now live; and in all things we
mean to pay our portion according to our ability, hoping
that God will help us so to do.

Samuel Guftin,
Nathaniel Hadley,
Elias Lewis,
Com. of Correspondence and Selectmen of Marlow.

To the Provincial Committee to be held at Exeter, in the
Province of New-Hampshire.

P. S. We should be glad to be favoured with what
measures are concerted by the said Congress.

town of alstead to the new-hampshire congress.

Aletead, N. H., May 15, 1775.

Gentlemen : We received a letter from the former
Convention requesting us to assist by sending a man to
represent us. We should gladly have embraced the privi-
lege were we in a capacity; but our ability is such that we
look upon ourselves as not able to maintain a man to sit in
Congress, but have proceeded so far in town-meeting,
duly warned, to choose a Committee to correspond with
our sister Towns, and to draw a letter to forward our
doings, joining with the Town of Marlow in this pro-
cedure, which are as follows, viz :

Made choice of Nathaniel Sartell Prentiss, Oliver
Shepherd, and Simon Brooks, as a Committee of Corres-
pondence, and voted to abide by the proceedings of a Con-
vention at the risk of our all, trusting in their wisdom and
sagacity (under God) that their endeavours and proceed-
ings will happily extricate us out of the alarming evil that
we either feel or fear ; which will be the constant prayer
and wish of your friends and brethren in one common
cause, the inhabitants of Alstead.

By a vote of the Town chose Mr. Oliver Shepherd to
forward these our proceedings immediately, and make
return. In behalf of the Committee :

Nathaniel Prentiss, Town Clerk.

To the Honourable the Delegates from the several Towns
in this Province now sitting at Exeter, Nac-Ilampshin .

AUGUSTA COUNTY (VIRGINIA) COMMITTEE.

At a meeting of the inhabitants of that part of Augusta
County that lies on the west side of the Laurel Hill, at
Pittsburgh, the 16th day of May, 1775, the following
gentlemen were chosen a Committee for the said District,
viz: George Croghan, John Campbell, Edward Hard,
Thomas Smallman, John Cannon, John McCullaugh, Wil-
liam Gee, George Valandingham, John Gibson, Dorsey
Penticost, Edward Cook, William Crawford, Devcrnu
Smith, John Anderson. David Rodgers, Jacob Vanmetre,

613

CORRESPONDENCE, PROCEEDINGS, &c, MAY, 1775.

614

Henry Enoch, James Ennis, George JVillson, William
Vance, David Shepherd, William Elliot, Richmond Wil-
lis. Samuel Sample, John Ormsbey, Richard McMaher,
John Nevill, and John Su-eringer.

The foregoing gentlemen met in committee, and resolved
that John Campbell, John Orrmbey, Edward Hard, Tho-
mas Smallman, Samuel Sample, John Anderson, and Deve-
reux Smith, or any four of them, he a Standing Committee,
and shall have full power to meet at such times as they
shall judge necessary, and in case of any emergency, to
rail the Committee of this District together, and shall he
vested with the same power and authority as the other
Standing Committees and Committees of Correspondence
are in the other Counties within this Colony.

Resolved unanimously , That the cordial and most grate-
ful thanks of this Committee are a tribute due to John
Harvie, Esquire, our worthy Representative in the late
Colonial Convention held at Richmond, for his faithful dis-
charge of that important trust reposed in him ; and to John
Nevill, Esquire, our other worthy Delegate, whom nothing
but sickness prevented from representing us in that re-
spectable Assembly.

Resolved unanimously, That this Committee have the
highest sense of the spirited behaviour of their brethren in
A< : tv- England, and do most cordially approve of their
opposing the invaders of American rights and privileges to
the utmost extreme, and that each member of this Com-
mittee, respectively, will animate and encourage their
neighbourhood to follow the brave example.

The imminent danger that threatens America in gene-
ral, from Ministerial and Parliamentary denunciations of
our ruin, and is now carrying into execution by open acts
of unprovoked hostilities in our sister Colony of Massachu-
setts, as well as the danger to be apprehended to this
Colony in particular from a domestick enemy, said to be
prompted by the wicked minions of power to execute our
ruin, added to the menaces of an Indian war, likewise said
to be in contemplation, thereby thinking to engage our
attention, and divert it from that still more interesting ob-
ject of liberty and freedom, that deeply, and with so much
justice, hath called forth the attention of all America; for
the prevention of all, or any of those impending evils, it is

Resolved, That the recommendation of the Richmond
Convention, of the 20th of last March, relative to the
embodying, arming, and disciplining the Militia, be immedi-
ately carried into execution with the greatest diligence in
this County, by the officers appointed for that end ; and
that the recommendation of the said Convention to the
several Committees of this Colony, to collect from their
constituents, in such manner as shall be most agreeable to
them, so much money as shall be sufficient to purchase
half a pound of gunpowder, and one pound of lead, flints,
and cartridge paper, for every tithable person in their
County, be likewise carried into execution.

This Committee, therefore, out of the deepest sense of
the expediency of this measure, most earnestly entreat
that every member of this Committee do collect from each
tithable person in their several districts the sum of Two
Shillings and Six-Pence, which we deem no more than
sufficient for the above purpose, and give proper receipts
to all such as pay the same into their hands ; and the sum
so collected to be paid into the hands of Mr. John Camp-
bell, who is to give proper security to this Committee, or
their successors, for the due and faithful application of the
money so deposited with him for the above purpose, by or
with the advice of this Committee, or their successors ;
and this Committee, as your representatives, and who are
most ardently labouring for your preservation, call on you,
our constituents, our friends, brethren, and fellow-sufferers,
in the name of God, of every thing you hold sacred or
valuable, for the sake of your wives, children, and unborn
generations, that you will, every one of you, in your seve-
ral stations, to the utmost of your power, assist in levying
such sum, by not only paying yourselves, but by assisting
those who are not at present in a condition to do so. We
heartily lament the case of all such as have not this small
sum at command in this day of necessity; to all such we
recommend to tender security to such as Providence has
enabled to lend them so much ; and this Committee do
pledge their faith and fortunes to you, their constituents,
that we shall, without fee or reward, use our best endeav-

ours to procure, with the money so collected, the ammu-
nition our present exigencies have made so exceedingly
necessary.

As this Committee has reason to believe there is a quan-
tity of Ammunition destined for this place for the purpose
of Government, and as this country, on the west side of
the Laurel Hill, is greatly distressed for want of ammuni-
tion, and deprived of the means of procuring it, by reason
of its situation, as easy as the lower Counties of this Colony,
they do earnestly request the Committees of Frederick,
Augusta, and Hampshire, that they will not suffer the am-
munition to pass through their Counties for the purposes of
Government, but will secure it for the use of this destitute
country, and immediately inform this Committee of their
having done so.

Resolved, That this Committee do approve of the Re-
solution of the Committee of the other part of this Coun-
ty, relative to the cultivating a friendship with the Indians ;
and if any person shall be so depraved as to take the life
of any Indian that may come to us in a friendly manner,
we will, as one man, use our utmost endeavours to bring
such offender to condign punishment.

Ordered, That the Standing Committee be directed to
secure such Arms and Ammunition as are not employed in
actual service, or private property, and that they get the
same repaired, and deliver them to such Captains of Inde-
pendent Companies as may make application for the same,
and taking such Captain's receipt for the arms so delivered.

Resolved, That the sum of fifteen Pounds, current money,
be raised by subscription, and that the same be transmitted
to Robert Carter Nicholas, Esq., for the use of the Depu-
ties sent from this Colony to the General Congress. Which
sum of money was immediately paid by the Committee
then present.

Mr. John Campbell reported, from the Select Committee
for considering the grievances, as Instructions to the Dele-
gates, which he read in his place, and handed it to the
Clerk's table, where it was again read, and is as follows :

To John Hakvie and George Rootes, Esquires.

Gentlemen : You being chosen to represent the people
on the west side the Laurel Hill in the Colonial Congress
for the ensuing year, we, the Committee for the people
aforesaid, desire you will lay the grievances hereafter men-
tioned before the Congress at their first meeting, as we
conceive it highly necessary they should be redressed, to
put us on a footing with the rest of our brethren in the
Colony.

1st. That many of the inhabitants in this part of the
County have expended large sums of money, and supplied
the soldiers in the last Indian war with provisions and other
necessaries, many of whom have expended all they had ;
and though, at the same time, we bear a grateful remem-
brance of the good intentions of the late Colonial Congress,
so feelingly and generously expressed in their Resolves,
yet the unhappy situation we are reduced to by the pay-
ment of those supplies being delayed, involves this new
and flourishing country in extreme poverty.

2d. That the maintaining a garrison at this place, when
there is no other method used for supplying them with pro-
visions, but by impressing from the inhabitants of the coun-
try, ought to be considered.

3d. That this country, joining the Indian Territory and
the Province of Quebeck, (which by its late change of Con-
stitution is rendered inimical to liberty,) lies exposed to the
inroads of the Savages and the Militia of that Province ;
and should the Ministry or their emissaries be able to stir
up either of them against the Colonies, this country will
be in need of support to enable them to provide against,
and withstand any attempt that may be made on their civil
or religious liberties.

4th. That for want of freeholders we cannot get legal
Grand Jurors, which are necessary for the well government
of the country.

5th. That the unsettled boundary between this Colony
and the Province of Pennsylvania, is the occasion of many
disputes.

6th. That the collecting the duty on skins and furs,
for which a commission hath lately been sent up here, will
banish the Indian Trade from this place and Colony.

Which Report being agreed to,

615

CORRESPONDENCE, PROCEEDINGS, fee., MAY, 1715.

616

Resolved unanimously, That a fair copy be drawn off and
delivered to our Delegates as their instructions.

Ordered, That the foregoing proceedings be certified by
the Clerk of this Committee, and published in the / 7r-
ginia Gazette.

By order of the Committee.

James Berwick, Clerk.

DOCTOR FRANKLIN TO DOCTOR PRIESTLEY, IN LONDON*.

Phil-ul.-lplua, M.y 16, 1775.

Dear Friend : You will have heard, before this reaches
you, of a march stolen by the Regulars into the country by-
night, and of their expedition back again. They retreated
twenty miles in six hours.

The Governourhad called the Assembly to propose Lord
North's pacifick plan, but, before the time of their meet-
ing, began cutting of throats. You know it was said he
carried the sword in one hand, and the olive branch in the
other ; and it seems he chose to give them a taste of the
sword first.

He is doubling his fortifications at Boston, and hopes to
secure his Troops till succour arrives. The place, indeed,
is naturally so defensible, that 1 think them in no danger.

All America is exasperated by his conduct, and more
firmly united than ever. The breach between the two
Countries is grown wider, and in danger of becoming
irreparable.

I had a passage of six weeks, the weather constantly so
moderate that a London wherry might have accompanied
us all the way. I got home in the evening, and the next
morning was unanimously chosen by the Assembly of Penn-
sylvania a Delegate to the Congress now sitting.

In coming over, I made a valuable philosophical dis-
covery, which I shall communicate to you when I can get
a little time. At present am extremely hurried.

Yours, most affectionately, B. Franklin.

MEETING OF THE INHABITANTS OF WESTMORELAND,
PENNSYLVANIA.

At a general meeting of the inhabitants of the County
of Westmoreland, held at Hanna's Totvn the 16th day of
May, 1775, for taking into consideration the very alarming
situation of this Country, occasioned by the dispute with
Great Britain :

Resolved unanimously, That the Parliament of Great
Britain, by several late Acts, have declared the inhabitants
of the Massachusetts-Bay to be in rebellion, and the Min-
istry, by endeavouring to enforce those Acts, have at-
tempted to reduce the said inhabitants to a more wretched
slate of slavery than ever before existed in any state or
country. Not content with violating their constitutional
and chartered privileges, they would strip them of the rights
of humanity, exposing lives to the wanton and unpunishable
sport of a licentious soldiery, and depriving them of the
very means of subsistence.

Resolved unanimously, That there is no reason to doubt
but the same system of tyranny and oppression will (should
it meet with success in the Massachusetts-Bay) be extended
to every other part of America : it is therefore become the
indispensable duty of every American, of every man who
has any publick virtue or love for his Country, or any
bowels for posterity, by every means which God has put
in his power, to resist and oppose the execution of it; that
for us we will be ready to oppose it with our lives and for-
tunes. And the better to enable us to accomplish it, we will
immediately form ourselves into a military body, to consist
of Companies to be made up out of the several Townships
under the following Association, which is declared to be the
Association of Westmoreland County :

Possessed with the most unshaken loyalty and fidelity
to His Majesty, King George the Third, whom we acknow-
ledge to be our lawful and rightful King, and who we wish
may long be the beloved Sovereign of a free and happy
people throughout the whole British Empire ; we declare
to the world, that we do not mean by this Association to
deviate from that loyalty which we hold it our bounden
duty to observe ; but, animated with the love of liberty, it
is no less our duty to maintain and defend our just rights

(which, with sorrow, we have seen of late wantonly Vio-
lated in many instances by a wicked Ministry and a cor-
rupted Parliament) and transmit them entire to our pos-
terity, for which purpose we do agree and associate
together :

1st. To arm and form ourselves into a Regiment or Re-
giments, and choose officers to command us in such propor-
tion as shall be thought necessary.

2d. We will, with alacrity, endeavour to make ourselves
masters of the manual exercise, and such evolutions as may
be necessary to enable us to act in a body with concert ;
and to that end we will meet at such times and places as
shall be appointed either for the Companies or the Regi-
ment, by the officers commanding each when chosen.

;Jd. That should our Country be invaded by a foreign
enemy, or should Troops be sent from Great Britain to
enforce the late arbitrary Acts of its Parliament, we will
cheerfully submit to military discipline, and to the utmost
of our power resist and oppose them, or either of them,
and will coincide with any plan that may be formed for the
defence of America in general, or Pennsylvania in par-
ticular.

4th. That we do not wish or desire any innovation, but
only that things may be restored to, and go on in the same
way as before the era of the Stamp Act, when Boston grew
great, and America was happy. As a proof of this dispo-
sition, we will quietly submit to the laws by which we have
been accustomed to be governed before that period, and
will, in our several or associate capacities, be ready when
called on to assist the civil magistrate in carrying the same
into execution.

5th. That when the British Parliament shall have re-
pealed their late obnoxious Statutes, and shall recede from
their claim to tax us, and make laws for us in every instance,
or when some general plan of union and reconciliation has
been formed and accepted by America, this our Association
shall be dissolved ; but till then it shall remain in full force ;
and to the observation of it, we bind ourselves by every
thing dear and sacred amongst men.

No licensed murder ! no famine introduced by law !

Resolved, That on Wednesday, the twenty-fourth instant,
the Township meet to accede to the said Association, and
choose their officers.

PENNSYLVANIA COUNCIL.

At a Council held at Philadelphia on Tuesday, 16th
May, 1775.

Present : The Honourable John Penn, Esq., Governour.
James Tilghman, Andrew Allen, Esquires.

The Governour acquainted the Board that eight Cayuga
Indians came to Town on Saturday last from Canasadego,
on the Cayuga branch of Susquehannah, on some business
with this Government, and that he now proposed to hear
what they had to say.

Whereupon the Board agreed that they should be imme-
diately sent for, and they were accordingly introduced.

The Governour then acquainting them that he was ready-
to hear them, addressing himself to the

Governour, first went through some short usual ceremonies
of clearing the throat and heart, and opening the ears, &tc.
and then producing a belt of wampum, spoke as follows,
viz : That three of their company who were present as the
nearest surviving relations of the old Seneca Sohaes, who
lived for many years with his family and connexions on a
tract of land within the manor of Conestogo, in Lancaster
County ; that the old man, with his family and relations,
were several years ago murdered there by some wicked
men belonging to this Government ; and that the said tract
of land, containing about five hundred acres, now became
the property of his three relatives present, one of whom is
Sohaes's brother ; that they had come down at this time to
see their brother Onas, and to make sale of the said land
to him. That the land is very rich, and worth a great deal
of money ; but as their brother Onas was himself well
acquainted with its value, they desired he would purchase
it from them, for such a price as he thought reasonable, and
they would be entirely satisfied.

He then delivered the belt of wampum to the Governour.
and told him that he had finished what he had to say.

The Governour thereupon acquainted the Indians that

617

CORRESPONDENCE, PROCEEDINGS, fee., MAY, 1775.

618

ho and his Council would take their Speech into consider-
ation, and give them an answer on Thursday morning.

At a Council held at Philadelphia on Thursday, 18th
May, 1775. Present : The Honourable John Perm. Esq.,
Governour, William Logan, Benjamin Chew, Andrew Al-
len, Edward Shippcn, Jr., Esquires.

The eight Cayuga Indians being sent for, attended at the
Board in order to receive the Governour's answer to their
Speech on Tuesday last, which the Governour in part de-
livered to them ; but as it appeared to the Board that the
Indians did not clearly and fully comprehend his meaning,
the person who undertook to interpret to them, not being
sufficiently acquainted with their language, and the Indians
expressing great dissatisfaction on being informed that this
land had already been purchased and paid for, it was agreed
that Isaac Still, a Delaware Indian interpreter, should be
immediately sent for, to interpret the Governour's answer
to the Indians in Council, on Saturday morning next.

At a Council held at Philadelphia on Saturday, 20th
May, 1775. Present : The Honourable John Penn, Esq.,
Governour, IVilliam Logan, James Tilghmun, Andrew
Alien, Edward Shippen, Jr., Esquires.

The eight Cayuga Indians, by the desire of the Gov-
ernour, again attended the Board, with the Indian inter-
preter, Isaac Still, and having taken their seats, the Speaker
repeated over the Speech he had delivered to the Governour
on Tuesday last, which was the same in substance as
entered on the Minutes of that day, and the Governour
returned them his answer, which was fully explained to
them by Isaac Still, and is as follows, viz :

" Bkethren : The tract of land you mention, consist-
ing of five hundred acres, part of the Conestogo Manor
where old Sohaes dwelt, was included in a purchase long
since made from the Indians; notwithstanding which I agree
that Sohaes and his family had the proprietary's permis-
sion to live thereon as long as they chose to remain in the
inhabited part of the country.

" Some time after the death of Sohaes, and all his family
that resided there, in the year 1768, there was a treaty
held at Fort Stanwix, to which I was invited by Sir Wil-
liam Johnson, in order to treat with the Indians concerning
the purchase of a large tract of land, part of which lay in
the King's Government, and part in the Province of Penn-
sylvania. At this treaty the last great Indian purchase
was made, for which I then paid the Indians ten thousand
Dollars. But before the treaty was finished, Sir William
Johnson informed me that the Indians expected to be paid
for the five hundred acres of land, part of the Conestogo
Manor, where Sohaes dwelt. 1 accordingly agreed to pay
them for it. The price agreed on was two hundred Pounds,
York money, or five hundred Dollars, the value of which
was then delivered in goods to Togaiaio, the Cayuga Chief,
to be distributed as he thought proper ; and the deed I now
show you for the land 1 bought of the Indians at that
treaty, signed by the Chiefs of the Six Nations, expressly
includes this five hundred acres of land. Having therefore
already purchased the lands twice, it cannot reasonably be
expected that I should pay for it again. However, as you
have come from a great distance, under an expectation of
selling this land, and perhaps did not receive so great a por-
tion of the goods I delivered at Fort Stanwix as should have
been paid to the relatives of Sohaes, and to show you the
desire I have to preserve peace and friendship with the
Indians, and that when they pay me a visit they should
not go away dissatisfied, 1 am willing to make you a present,
which 1 hope you will think a generous one. I there-
fore desire you will accept of these three hundred Dollars."
A belt.

The Indians accordingly very gladly accepted the three
hundred Dollars, and signed a receipt for the same on the
back of the deed executed at Fort Stanwit, expressing it
to be in full satisfaction of all claims of Sohacs's family to
the said five hundred acres of land.

Mr. McDougall, from the Committee of Correspond-
ence, reported the draft of an answer to a Letter received
from EUsha Lawrence, dated 9th May, 1775, which being
read and approved of,

Ordered, That the same be forwarded.

Resolved, That it be recommended to the Ward Com-
panies of Militia for the City and County of Neiv- York,
to enroll their men in the different beats, so that they may
be in readiness to take their tour of duty as a Military
Night Watch for this City, and it is recommended to the
men in the different Wards to appear punctually for that
purpose.

At a special meeting of the Committee, on Wednesday,
17th May, 1775. Present, forty-seven Members.

A Letter, dated Philadelphia, 17th May, 1775, from
the gentlemen in delegation for this Colony, enclosing an
extract of the Minutes of the Continental Congress, respect-
ing the conduct to be observed by the inhabitants of this
City towards any Troops that may arrive here, received
and read.

Ordered, That the same be published.

An Affidavit of Charles Murray, Captain of the sloop
Modesty, respecting the seizing Guns and Powder on board
the said sloop, by His Majesty's ship-of-war Kingfisher,
was read.

Resolved, That his worship the Mayor of this City, be
furnished with a copy of the Affidavit of Captain Charles
Murray, and be requested to procure a conveyance of it
to Captain Montague of His Majesty's Ship Kingfisher,
and to desire his answer on the subject matter of the said
Affidavit.

Philadelphia, May 16, 1775.

Gentlemen : Enclosed we send you the advice of the
Congress on the subject on which you requested it ; and
lest the advice to remove the Military Stores might be
construed to extend to those belonging to the Crown, we
think it prudent to suggest to you, that the contrary con-
struction is the true one.

You would have received this advice before, had not
sundry circumstances not material, or perhaps proper to
explain, concurred in deferring it till now.
We are, gentlemen, your humble servants,

James Duane, Lewis Morris,
Francis Lewis, Philip Livingston,
John Jay, John Alsop.

In Congress, Monday, May 15, 1775.

The City and County of New- York, having through their
Delegates applied to the Congress for their advice how to
conduct themselves with regard to the Troops expected
there ; the Congress took the matter into their most serious
deliberation, and came to the following Resolution :

" That it be recommended for the present to the inha-
bitants of New- York, that if the Troops which are expected
should arrive, the said Colony act on the defensive, so long
as may be consistent with their safety and security; that
the Troops be permitted to remain in the barracks so long
as they behave peaceably and quietly, but that they be not
suffered to erect fortifications, or take any steps for cutting
off the communication between the town and country ;
and that if they commit hostilities, or invade private pro-
perty, the inhabitants should defend themselves and their
property, and repel force by force ; that the warlike stores
be removed from the Town ; that places of retreat, in case
of necessity, be provided for the women and children of
New-York ; and a sufficient number of men be embodied,
and kept in constant readiness for protecting the inhabi-
tants from insult and injury."

A true copy from the Minutes :

Charles Thomson, Secretary.

MEW-rORK COMMITTEE.

At a meeting of the Committee, by adjournment, Tues-
day, lGth May, 1775. Present, forty-seven Members.

ERASTUS WALCOTT AND OTHERS TO THE MASSACHUSETTS
CONGRESS.

Hartford, May 1G, 1775.

Gentlemen : We were yesterday informed of the suc-
cess of an expedition undertaken, and set on foot by some
individuals of this Colony, in a secret manner, against

619

CORRESPONDENCE, PROCEEDINGS, fee, MAY. 1775.

620

Ticonderoga and Crown Point, the particular account of
which you will have received before this comes to hand.
Immediately on receipt of this news, an express was
despatched from hence to the Continental Congress for
their advice in this important matter. Posts were also sent
to Albany, to the Committee of Correspondence for that
City, requesting them to afford their aid in maintaining
that pass till the opinion of the Colonics can he known.

W'e understand an expedition against the same [dace
hath been undertaken under the authority of your Prov-
ince; but the adventure being set on foot by some private
gentlemen in this Colony, and success having attended
their enterprise before the forces from the Massachusetts
Bay came up, some ijuestion arose about the right to com-
mand and hold this important pass. We consider all the
Colonies, and the New-England Colonies especially, as
brethren united together in one joint interest, and pursuing
the same general design, and that whatever expedition in
furtherance of the grand designs may be undertaken by
any one of the Colonies, or body of men in either of them,
ought to be considered as undertaken for the joint benefit
of the whole confederate Colonies, and the expenses of the
enterprise, and cost of maintaining and defending the same,
is to be borne by all in proportion to their abilities.

This is not a time for the Colonies to contend about
precedency, but we hope all will wish to put out a helping
hand, and mutually afford each other all necessary assist-
ance against our common enemy. Some parts of your
Province are more conveniently situated to furnish men,
k.c, for maintaining our possession. We doubt not you will
exert yourselves to secure every advantage which may arise
from this successful attempt, in which we hope the City
and County of Albany, and the Colony of Connecticut
will co-operate with you, but of this we cannot assure you,
as our calls are very many.

We are, gentlemen, your humble servants,

Erastus Wolcott, Samuel Bishop,
William Williams, Samuel H. Paksons.
Committee of Correspondence for Connecticut.
Honourable Provincial Congress of Massachusetts.

P. S. We hope you will not omit any thing you can do,
as 'tis uncertain what New-York will undertake without
the consent of the General Congress, &c.

JOSEPH WARREN TO ARTHUR LEE.

Cambridge, May 16, 1775.

My dear Sir: Every thing here continues the same
as at the period of my writing a short time ago. Out-
military operations go on in a very spirited manner. Gen-
eral Gage had a reinforcement of about six hundred Ma-
rines the day before yesterday ; but this gives very little
concern here. It is not expected that he will sally out of
Boston at present, and if he does, he will but gratify thou-
sands who impatiently wait to avenge the blood of their
murdered countrymen. The attempt he has made to throw
the odium of the first commencement of hostilities on the
people here, has operated very much to his disadvantage,
as so many credible people were eye witnesses of the whole
affair, whose testimonies are justly supposed of infinitely
greater weight than any thing he has brought or can bring
in support of his assertion. My private opinion is. that he
is really deceived in this matter, and is led (by his officers
and some other of the most abandoned villains on earth,
who are natives of this Country, and who are now shut
up with him in Boston) to believe that our people actually
began the firing ; but my opinion is only for myself; most
people are satisfied not only that he knows that the Regu-
lars began the fire, but also that he gave his orders to the
commanding officer to do it. Thus by attempting to clear
the Troops from what every one is sure they were guilty
of, he has brought on strong suspicions that he himself is
gudty of having preconcerted the mischief done by them.
Indeed his very unmanly conduct, relative to the people of
Boston, in detaining many of them, and contriving new
excuses for delaying their removal after they had given up
their fire-arms upon a promise of being suffered to leave
town and carry with them their effects, has much lessened
his character confirmed formed suspicions.

The ( ontinental Congress is now sitting. I suppose

before I hear from you again, a new form of Government
will he established in this Colony. Great Britain must
now make the best she can of America. The folly of her
Minister has brought her into this situation. If she has
strength sufficient even to depopulate the Colonies, she
has not strength sufficient to subjugate them. Hov
we can yet Without injuring ourselves offer much to her.
The ureal national advantages derived from the Colonies
may, 1 hope, yet be reaped by her from us. The plan for
enslaving us, if it had succeeded, would only have put it
in the power of the Administration to provide for a num-
ber of their unworthy dependants, whilst the Nation would
have been deprived of the most essential benefits which
might have arisen from us by commerce; and the taxes
raised in America would, instead of easing the Mother
Country of her burdens, only have been employed to bring
her into bondage.

I cannot precisely tell you what will become of General
Gage; I imagine he will at least be kept closely shut up
in Boston. Perhaps you will very soon hear something
further relative to these things. One thing I can assure
you has very great weight with us ; we fear if we push
this matter as far as we think we are able — to the destruc-
tion of the Troops and Sbips-of-War — we shall expose
Great Britain to those invasions from foreign Powers.
which we suppose it will be difficult for her to repel.

In fact, you must have a change in men and measures
or be ruined. The truly noble Jlichmond, Rockingham,
Chatham, Shelburne, with other Lords, and the virtuous
and sensible minority in the House of Commons, must
take the lead. The confidence we have in them will go a
great way ; but I must tell you that those terms which
would readily have been accepted before our countrymen
were murdered, and we in consequence compelled to take
arms, will not now do.

Every thing in my power to serve the united interest of
Great Britain, shall be done: and I pray that you, your
brother, and Mr. Sayre, (to whom I beg you would make
my most respectful compliments,) would write fully, freely,
and speedily, to me, and let me know what our great and
good friends in the House of Commons think expedient
and practicable to be done.

God forbid that the Nation should be so infatuated as to
do any thing further to irritate the Colonies ; if they should,
the Colonies will sooner throw themselves into the arms of
any other power on earth, than ever consent to an accom-
modation with Great Britain. That patience which 1
frequently told you would be at last exhausted, is no lon-
ger to be expected from us. Danger and war are become
pleasing ; and injured virtue is now armed to avenge her-
self. I am, my dear Sir, your most obedient servant,

Jos. Warren.
To Arthur Lee, Esq., London.

P. S. Please to let Mr. Sayre and Sheriff Lee know
that I shall write to them by the first opportunity. This
will be handed you by our good friend Mr. Barrell, who
will give you a more particular account of our publick
affairs. J. W.

LETTER FROM THE MASSACHUSETTS TO THE CONTINEN-
TAL CONGRESS.

In Provincial Congress, Watertown, /
May 16, 1775. \

" Resolved, That Doctor Benjamin Church be ordered to
go immediately to Philadelphia, and deliver to the Presi-
dent of the Honourable American Congress there now
sitting, the following application, to be by him communicated
to the Members thereof; and the said Church is also di-
rected to confer with the said Congress respecting such
other matters as may be necessary to the defence of this
Colony, and particularly the state of the Army therein."

May it please your Honours :

That system of Colony administration which, in the
most firm, dutiful, and loyal manner, has been in vain re-
monstrated against by the representative body of the Uni-
ted Colonies, seems still, unless speedily and vigorous!)
opposed by the collected wisdom and force of all America,
to threaten ruin and destruction to this Continent.

For a long time past this Colony has, by a corrupt Ad-
ministration in Great Britain and here, been deprived of

621

CORRESPONDENCE, PROCEEDINGS, fee, .MAY, 1775.

622

the exercise of those powers of government, without which
a people can be neither rich, happy, nor secure. The whole
Continent saw the blow pending, which if not warded off
must inevitably have subverted the freedom and happiness
of each Colony. The principles of self-defence, roused
in the breasts of freemen by the dread of impending slave-
ry, caused to be collected the wisdom of America in a
Congress, composed of men who, through time, must, in
every land of freedom, be revered among the most faithful
asserters of the essential rights of human nature.

This Colony was then reduced to great difficulties, being
denied the exercise of civil Government according to our
Charter, or the fundamental principles of the English Con-
stitution, and a formidable Navy and Army (not only
inimical to our safety, but flattered with the prospect of
enjoying the fruit of our industry) were stationed for that
purpose in our Metropolis. The prospect of deciding the
question between our Mother Country and us by the
sword, gave us the greatest pain and anxiety ; but we have
made all the preparation for our necessary defence that
our confused state would admit of; and as the question
equally affected our sister Colonies and us, we have de-
clined, though urged thereto by the most pressing neces-
sity, to assume the reins of civil Government without their
advice and consent ; but have hitherto borne the many dif-
ficulties and distressing embarrassments necessarily resulting
from a want thereof.

We are now compelled to raise an Army, which, with
the assistance of the other Colonies, we hope, under the
smiles of Heaven, will be able to defend us and all Ame-
rica from the further butcheries and devastations of our
implacable enemies. But as the sword should, in all free
States, be subservient to the civil powers; and as it is the
duty of the Magistrates to support it for the people's ne-
cessary defence, we tremble at having an Army (although
consisting of our own countrymen) established here, with-
out a civil power to provide for and control them.

We are happy in having an opportunity of laying our
distressed state before the representative body of the Con-
tinent, and humbly hope you will favour us with your most
explicit advice respecting the taking up and exercising the
powers of civil Government, which we think absolutely
necessary for the salvation of our Country ; and we shall
readily submit to such a general plan as you may direct for
the Colonies, or make it our great study to establish such a
form of Government here, as shall not only most promote
our own advantages, but the union and interest of all Ame-
rica.

As the Army now collecting from different Colonies is
for the general defence of the rights of America, we would
beg leave to suggest to your consideration the propriety of
your taking the regulation and general direction of it, that
the operations of it may more effectually answer the purposes
designed. Jos. Warren, President pro tern.

Attest: Samuel Freeman, Secretary pro tern.

To the Hon. the Continental Congress, Philadelphia.

COMMITTEE OF BROWNFIELD TO THE MASSACHUSETTS
CONGRESS.

Brownfield, May 16, 1775.

Gentlemen : There are five or six families of Indians
hunting at Androscoggin, about twenty-five miles north of
my house. Several of the women and youngsters were
at my house last week ; one of them expressed much con-
cern about the times; said their men could not hunt, eat,
nor sleep ; keep calling together every night ; courting,
courting, courting, every night, all night. O, strange
Englishmen kill one another. I think the world is coming
to an end. Mrs. Brown asked which side they would
fight. Answered, why should we fight for t'other country,
for we never see t'other country ; our hunting is in this
country. One of them said her brother was a Colonel ;
she wished she could see him ; she would tell him not to
fight (or t'other country, but to fight for this country. One
of the party is gone to Canada. They wanted powder,
but Liot none. Some of them were painted ; and as it was
the first time they came in paint, it surprised some of our
women. I thought it best you should know of their con-
cern and uneasiness, and that one was gone to Canada.
The bearer, Mr. Holt, is used to the woods; has been a

hunting this spring where they are ; if necessary will go to
them.

At this day it appears to me to be necessary for every
man to be supplied with arms, &c. We have in this Town
ten guns, shot, twenty pounds of powder, and half a hundred
of lead. James Holt, James Haywood, and myself, are a
Committee in behalf of this Town, and was to provide every
thing necessary. I have been to Portsmouth to purchase,
but could not ; my business called me immediately home.
Now Mr. Holt sets out to apply to you for relief. If he
can be supplied, wc will stand accountable, and stand ready
to serve our Country. The bearer has served long in the
last war; was at Nova-Scotia in 1755 ; was in the siege
at Fort Bosajure: has given repeated evidence he can
stand fire, and is now ready to serve his Country, if re-
quired. I am, gentlemen, your most obedient humble
servant, Henry Young Brown.

CUMBERLAND COUNTY (VIRGINIA) COMMITTEE.

At a meeting of the Committee for Cumberland County,
held on Wednesday, the 17th of May, 1775:

Mr. Chairman opened the business of the day by laying
before the Committee informations lately received by ex-
press from the Northward, respecting the Government of
Neiv- York, amongst which is a Resolution of the Mary-
land Provincial Convention, for immediately suspending
all Exportations from that Province to Quebcck, Nova-
Scotia, Georgia, and Neivfoundland, or any part of the
Fishing Coasts, or Fishing Islands, and to the Town of
Boston, until the Continental Congress shall give farther
directions thereon : Whereupon the Committee, after the
maturest deliberation, came to the following Resolutions :

Resolved unanimously, That this Committee doth heart-
ily approve of the said Resolution of the Maryland Pro-
vincial Convention, as well concerted upon the view of the
present conjuncture of affairs, and doth recommend it as a
proper rule of conduct to all men.

Resolved, That the present alarming situation of Ame-
rican affairs, especially in the Province of New- York,
renders it absolutely necessary that a Colony Convention
be immediately called ; and this Committee do recommend
it to Robert Carter Nicholas, Esquire, in the most earnest
terms, to call a Colony Convention as speedily as possible,
provided the General Assembly now called to meet on the
first Thursday in June, shall be prorogued to a farther
day.

The following Address to the inhabitants of the lower
parts of Virginia, was proposed, and unanimously agreed to :

Friends and Countrymen:

We, the Committee for the County of Cumberland,
taking into our serious consideration the unremitting efforts
of despotick Administration to effect the total subversion
of American liberty, aided by the wicked and venal tools
of corruption, who are endeavouring, by the basest misrep-
resentations and falsehoods, to effect an unnatural division
between the Mother Country and her Colonies, covering
their wicked design under the specious pretence of duty
and attachment to our gracious Sovereign, and the sacred
laws of the British Empire; and also to the unhappy
situation to which you will be reduced in case of a hostile
invasion of this Colony, do, for ourselves and our constit-
uents, (should such a distressing circumstance take place,)
most cordially invite you to remove so many of your wives
and children into this County as the inhabitants thereof
can conveniently entertain, where they will meet with the
best protection and accommodations we are able to afford.
George Carrington, Chairman.

cecil county (Maryland) committee.

At a meeting of the Committee of Cecil County, at Elk
Ferry, on the 17th day of May, 1775:

In consequence of an information being made, that
Charles Gordon, Attorney-at-Law in Cecil County, had
treated with great disrespect, and maliciously aspersed the
Continental Congress, the Provincial Convention, and the
Committee of this County ; and had, at divers times, and
by sundry ways and means, vilified their proceedings ; a
Summons thereupon issued from the Committee, command-
ing his appearance to answer to the above charge ; to which

623

CORRESPONDENCE, PROCEEDINGS, be, MAY, 1775.

624

Summons he returned the following verbal answer, as ap-
pears by affidavit :

•' On the 1 7th da) of May, 1 775, personally came William
Savin before me the subscriber, one of his Lordship's Jus-
tices of the Peace for the County aforesaid, and made oath
on the Holy Evangelists of Almighty God, that he served
Mr. Gordon with a copy of the within Summons in time
for him to have observed it ; and that be told him (this
deponent) that he would not meet, and if the Committee
wanted him they must come to his plantation, but not inside
his yard gate ; that he asked why the) did not come them-
selves, or send some of their head men ; that upon bis
(this deponent) saying he believed unless be did not com-
ply with their request, they would all come, be, Mr. Gor-
don, said he was ready to receive them ; that bis plantation
was large enough to hold them all, but they must not come
inside bis yard gate, or there would be lives lost. Mr.
Gordon said he had said, and does still say, that they are
a parcel of damned scoundrels of the Committee, and that
if they have any thing to say to him, they must come to
him, for he was at their defiance."

Sworn before David Smith.

Whereupon the Committee entered into the following
Resolve, viz :

Whereas Charles Gordon, Attorney-at-Law in Cecil
County, hath treated this Committee with great contempt
and insolence ; and the general tenour of his conduct for a
long time hath been such, as in our opinions declares him
to be an enemy to the common cause of liberty for which
we are contending ; and whereas he hath this day been duly
summoned to appear before this Committee and answer
unto the above charge, to which Summons he returned an
impertinent and insolent answer, even menacing this Com-
mittee with destruction if they attempt to proceed any
farther against him : It is, therefore,

Resolved, That he lie under the imputation of being
an enemy to this Country, and as such we will have no
dealings or communication with him, nor permit him to
transact any business with us, or for us, either in a publick
or private capacity, which shall be commenced after the
date hereof, until he appears before this Committee and
satisfies them with respect to the above charge ; and we
do earnestly recommend it to all the good people of this
County to observe the same line of conduct.

Resolved, That the above be published.

James Veazey, Junior, Chairman.
John Veazey, 3d, Clerk pro tern.

Philadelphia, May 20, 1775.

On Wednesday evening last, May 17, arrived here John
Brown, Esquire, from Ticonderoga, express to the Gen-
eral Congress, from whom we learn, that on the beginning
of this instant, a company of about fifty men from Connecti-
cut and the western part of Massachusetts, and joined by
upwards of one hundred from Bennington, in New- York
Government, and the adjacent Towns, proceeded to the
eastern side of Lake Champlain, and on the night before
the 11th current, crossed the Lake with eighty-five men,
(not being able to obtain craft to transport the rest) and
about daybreak invested the Fort, whose gate, contrary to
expectation, they found shut, but the wicker open, through
which, with the Indian war-whoop, all that could, entered
one by one, others scaling the wall on both sides of the
gate, and instantly secured and disarmed the sentries, and
pressed into the parade, where they formed the hollow
square ; but immediately quitting that order, they rushed
into the several barracks on three sides of the Fort, and
seized on the garrison, consisting of two officers and up-
wards of forty privates,* whom they brought out, disarmed,
put under guard, and have since sent prisoners to Hartford,
in Connecticut. All this was performed in about ten min-
utes, without the Joss of a life, or a drop of blood on our
side, and but very little on that of the King's Troops.

In the Fort were found about thirty barrels of flour, a
few barrels of pork, seventy odd chests of leaden ball,
computed at three hundred tons, about ten barrels of pow-
der, in bad condition, near two hundred pieces of ordnance,
of all sizes, from eighteen-pounders downwards, at Ticon-

• A party of the Twenty-Sixth, commanded by Captain Delaplace.

i and Crown Point, which last place, being held only
by a Corporal and eight men, falls of course into our
hands.

By this sudden expedition, planned by some principal
persons in the four neighbouring Colonies, that important
pass is now in the hands of the Americans, where we trust
the wisdom of the Grand Continental Congress will take
effectual measures to secure it, as it may be depended on
that Administration means to form an ariny in Canada,
composed of British Regulars, French, and Indians, to
attack the Colonies on that side.

-~ Mr. Brown brought intercepted letters from Lieutenant
Malcolm Eraser, to his friends in New-England, from
which appear, that General Carlcton has almost unlimited
powers, civil and military, and has issued orders for raising
a Canadian Regiment, in which, Mr. Eraser observes, the
officers find difficulty, as the common people are by no
means fond of the service. He likewise remarks, that all
the King's European subjects are disaffected at the partial
preference given to the late converts to loyalty, as be
phrases it, to their utter exclusion from all confidence, or
even common civility. Matters are indeed in such a situa-
tion, that many, if not most of the merchants, talk of
.leaving the Province.

Mr. Brown also relates, that two regular officers of the
Twenty-Sixth Regiment, now in Canada, applied to two
Indians, one a head warriour of the Caughnawaga tribe,
to go out with them on a hunt to the south and east of the
Rivers St. Lawrence and Sorrel, and pressing the Indians
farther and farther on said course, they at length arrived
at Cohass, where the Indians say they were stopped and
interrogated by the inhabitants, to whom they pretended
they were only on a bunt, which the inhabitants (as the
Indians told Mr. Broum) replied must be false, as no hun-
ters used silver (bright) barrelled guns. However, the
Cohass people dismissed them all ; and when they return-
ed into the woods, the Indian warriour insisted on knowing
what their real intention was, and they told him that it was
to reconnoitre the woods to find a passage for an army to
march to the assistance of the King's friends in Boston.
The Indian asked where they would get the army ? They
answered, in Canada, and that the Indians in the upper
Castles would join them. The Chief, on this, expressed
resentment, that he, being one of the head men of the
Caughnawaga tribe, should never have been consulted in
the affair. But Mr. Brown presumed the aversion of this
honest fellow and his friends to their schemes, was the rea-
son of their being kept from their knowledge.

The conductors of this grand expedition are to be Mon-
sieur St. Luke le Come, the villain who let loose the
Indians on the prisoners at Fort William Henry, and one
of his associates.

Watertown, May 18, 1775.

Yesterday Colonel Easton arrived at the Provincial
Congress in Watertown from Ticonderoga, and brings the
glorious news of the taking of that place by the American
forces without the loss of a man ; of which interesting
event we have collected the following particulars, viz:

Last Tuesday se'night about two hundred and forty
men from Connecticut and this Province, under Colonels
Allen and Easton, arrived at the Lake near Ticonderoga ;
eighty of them crossed it, and came to the Fort about the
dawn of day. The sentry was much surprised at seeing
such a body of men, and snapped his piece at them ; our
men, however, immediately rushed forward, seized and con-
fined the sentry, pushed through the covered way, and all
got safe upon the parade, while the garrison were sleeping
in their beds. They immediately formed a hollow square,
and gave three huzzas, which brought out the garrison ; an
inconsiderable skirmish with cutlasses or bayonets ensued,
in which a small number of the enemy received some
wounds. The commanding officer soon came forth ; Col-
onel Easton clapped him upon the shoulder, told him be
was his prisoner, and demanded, in the name of America.
an instant surrender of the Fort, with all its contents, to
the American forces. The officer was in great confusion,
and expressed himself to this effect: damn you, what —
what does all this mean ? Colonel Easton again told him
that he and his garrison were prisoners. The officer said
that he hoped he should be treated with honour. Colonel

625

CORRESPONDENCE, PROCEEDINGS, &c, MAY, 1775.

626

Easton replied he should be treated with much more hon-
our than our people had met with from the British Troops.
The officer then said, he was all submission, and imme-
diately ordered his soldiers to deliver up all the arms, in
number about one hundred stands. As they gave up their
arms, the prisoners were secured in the hollow square.

The American forces having thus providentially got pos-
session of this important fortress, found in it upwards of
one hundred pieces of cannon, several mortars, and a con-
siderable quantity of shot, stores, and some powder.

After this acquisition, a detachment of our Troops was
despatched to take possession of Crown Point, where there
is a considerable number of cannon. Another detachment
was sent to Skenesborough, where they took Major Skene
and his family, with a number of soldiers, and several small
pieces of cannon.

Colonel Easton met several hundred men from the west-
ern parts of this Province, on their way to Ticonderoga.
They were on the same expedition, not knowing the Fort
was taken till they met Colonel Easton. Part of them
pursued their march, in order to secure and garrison the
Fort.

The prisoners, to the number of about one hundred, in-
cluding negroes, &tc, were brought off by John Brown,
Esquire. Colonel Allen was left commander of the Fort.

The officers and soldiers in this important expedition
behaved with the utmost intrepidity and good conduct, and
therefore merit the highest applauses of their grateful
Country.

PHILADELPHIA COMMITTEE.

Committee-Chamber, May 17, 1775.

Whereas, by some misapprehension or mistake of the
Seventh Resolve of the late Provincial Convention, sundry
Lambs have been lately brought into market and purchased
by some of the inhabitants of this City : In order, there-
fore, to rectify such mistake, and as much as possible to
preserve and promote the breed of Sheep, it is ordered that
said Resolve be re-published in all the Newspapers ; and
the Committee do earnestly request all persons to discour-
age a practice which has so pernicious a tendency to de-
prive us of wool, one of the most material and necessary
articles of manufacture.

" Resolved unanimously, That from and after the first
day of March next, no person or persons should use in his,
her, or their families, (unless in cases of necessity,) and on
no account to sell to the butchers, or kill for the market,
any Sheep under four years old ; and where there is a ne-
cessity for using any mutton in their families, it is recom-
mended to them to kill such as are the least profitable to
keep." Isaac Melcher, Secretary pro tern.

An account of the commencement of Hostilities between
Great Britain and America, in the Province of the
Massachusetts-Bay. By the Reverend Mr. William
Gordon of Roxbury, in a Letter to a Gentleman in
England, dated May 17, 1775.

My dear Sir: I shall now give you a letter upon pub-
lick affairs. This Colony, judging itself possessed of an
undoubted right to the chartered privileges which had been
granted by our glorious deliverer, King William the Third,
and finding that the Continent was roused by the measures
and principles of Administration, was determined upon pro-
viding the necessary requisites for self-defence, in case there
should be an attempt to support the late unconstitutional
Acts by the point of the sword, and upon making that
resistance which the laws of God and nature justified, and
the circumstances of the people would admit, and so to
leave it with the righteous Judge of the world to settle the
dispute. Accordingly the Provincial Congress, substituted
by the inhabitants in lieu of the General Assembly, which
could not convene but by the call of the Governour, pre-
pared a quantity of stores for the service of an army,
whenever the same might be brought into the field. These
stores were deposited in various places; many of them at
Concord, about twenty miles from Charlestoicn, which lies
on the other side of the river, opposite to Boston, answer-
ing to Southwark, but without the advantage of a bridge.
It was apprehended by numbers, from the attempt made to

Fourth Series. — Vol. ii.

surprise some cannon at Salem on the 26th February, that
there would be something of the like kind in other places ;
and many were uneasy, after the resolutions of the Parlia-
ment were known, that any quantity of stores was within
so small a distance of Boston, while there was no regular
force established for the defence of them. Several were
desirous of raising an army instantly upon hearing what
had been determined at home ; but it was judged best upon
the whole not to do it, as that step might be immediately
construed to the disadvantage of the Colony by the ene-
mies of it, and might not meet with the unanimous appro-
bation of the Continental Congress.

Here I must break off for a few minutes to inform you,
by way of episode, that on the 30th of March, the Gov-
ernour ordered out about eleven hundred men to parade it
for the distance of five miles, to Jamaica Plains, and so
round by the way of Dorchester back again ; in perform-
ing which military exploit, they did considerable damage
to the stone fences, which occasioned a Committee's being
formed, and waiting upon the Provincial Congress, then at
Concord, on the point of adjourning, which prevented
their adjournment, and lengthened out the session till the
news of what Parliament had done reached them on April
2d, by a vessel from Falmouth, which brought the account
before the Governour had received his despatches, so that
obnoxious persons took the advantage of withdrawing from
Boston, or keeping away, that they might not be caught by
the General, were orders for that purpose given him from
home, as there is much reason to suppose was the case,
from a hint in an intercepted letter of Mr. Mauduit's to
Commissioner Hallowell, and from subsequent intelligence.
The Tories had been for a long while filling the officers
and soldiers with the idea, that the Yankees would not
fight, but would certainly run for it, whenever there was
the appearance of hostilities on the part of the Regulars.
They had repeated the story so often, that they themselves
really believed it, and the military were persuaded to think
the same in general, so that they held the country people
in the utmost contempt. The officers had discovered, espe-
cially since the warlike feat of tarring and feathering, a
disposition to quarrel, and to provoke the people to begin,
that they might have some colour for hostilities. This cast
of mind was much increased upon the news of what Par-
liament had resolved upon ; the people, however, bore
insults patiently, being determined that they would not
be the aggressors.

At length the General was fixed upon sending a detach-
ment to Concord, to destroy the stores, having been, I
apprehend, worried into it by the native Tories that were
about him, and confirmed in his design by the opinion of
his officers, about ten of whom, on the 18th of April, pass-
ed over Charlestown Ferry, and by the neck through Rox-
bury, armed with swords and pistols, and placed them-
selves on different parts of the road in the night to prevent
all intelligence, and the country's being alarmed ; they
stopped various persons, threatening to blow their brains
out, ordering them to dismount, Sic. The Grenadier and
Light-Infantry Companies had been taken off duty some
days, under pretence of learning a new exercise, which
made the Bostonians jealous ; one and another were con-
firmed in their suspicions by what they saw and heard on
the 18th, so that expresses were forwarded to alarm the
country, some of whom were secured by the officers on
the road ; the last had not got out of Town more than
about five minutes, ere the order arrived to stop all persons
from leaving the Town. An alarm was spread in many
places, (to some the number of officers on the road to
Concord proved an alarm ;) however, as there had been
repeated false ones, the country was at a loss what to
judge. On the first of the night, when it was very dark,
the detachment, consisting of ail the Grenadiers and Light-
Infantry, the flower of the army, to the amount of eight
hundred or better, officers included, the companies having
been filled up, and several of the inimical torified natives,
repaired to the boats, and got into them just as the moon
rose, crossed the water, landed on Cambridge side, took
through a private way to avoid discovery, and therefore
had to go through some places up to their thighs in water.
They made a quick march of it to Lexington, about thir-
teen miles from Charlestown, and got there by half an hour
after four.
40

«27

CORRESPONDENCE, PROCEEDINGS, &c., MAY, IT75.

628

Here I must pause again, to acquaint you that in the
morning of the 19th, before we had breakfasted, between
eight and nine, the whole neighbourhood was in alarm ; the
Minute-men (so called from tbelr having agreed to turn
out at a minute's warning) were collecting together ; we
had an account that the Regulars had killed six of our
men at Lexington; the Country was in an uproar; another
detachment was coming out of Boston; and I was desired
to take care of myself and partner. I concluded that the
Brigade was intended to support the Grenadiers and Light-
Infantry, and to cover their retreat, in which I was not
mistaken. The Brigade took out two cannon, the detach-
ment had none. Having sent oft' my books, which 1 had
finished packing up the day before, conjecturing what was
coming on from the moment I had heard of the resolutions
of Parliament, though I did not expect it till the reinforce-
ment arrived, we got into our chaise, and went to Ded-
ham. At night we had it confirmed to us, that the Regu-
lars had been roughly handled by the Yankees, a term of
reproach for the New-Englanders, when applied by the
Regulars. The Brigade under Lord Percy marched out,
playing, by way of contempt, Yankee Doodle; they were
afterwards told, that they had been made to dance to it.

Soon after the affair, knowing what untruths are propa-
gated by each party in matters of this nature, I concluded
that I would ride to Concord, inquire for myself, and not
rest upon the depositions that might be taken by others.
Accordingly 1 went the last week. The Provincial Con-
gress have taken depositions, which they have forwarded
to Great Britain; but the Ministry and pretended friends
to Government, will cry them down, as being evidence
from party persons and rebels; the like may be objected
against the present account, as it will materially contra-
dict what has been published in Boston, though not ex-
pressly, yet as it is commonly supposed, by authority ;
however, with the impartial world, and those who will not
imagine me capable of sacrificing honesty to the old, at
present heretical, principles of the Revolution, it may have
some weight.

Before Major Pitcairn arrived at Lexington signal guns
had been fired, and the bells had been rung to give the
alarm ; but let not the sound of bells lead you to think of
a ring of bells like what you hear in England; for they
are only small sized bells, (one in a Parish,) just sufficient
to notify to the people the time for attending worship, &ic.
Lexington being alarmed, the train band or Militia, and
the alarm men (consisting of the aged and others exempt-
ed from turning out, excepting upon an alarm) repaired in
general to the common, close in with the meeting-house,
the usual place of parade ; and there were present when
the roll was called over about one hundred and thirty of
both, as I was told by Mr. Daniel Harrington, clerk to
the company ; who further said, that the night being chilly,
so as to make it uncomfortable being upon the parade,
they having received no certain intelligence of the Regu-
lars being upon their march, and being waiting for the
same, the men were dismissed, to appear again at the beat
of drum. Some who lived near, went home, others to the
publick house at the corner of the common. Upon infor-
mation being received about half an hour after, that the
Troops were not far off", the remains of the company who
were at hand collected together, to the amount of about
sixty or seventy, by the time the Regulars appeared, but
were chiefly in a confused stale, only a few of them being
drawn up, which accounts for other witnesses making the
number less, about thirty. There were present as specta-
tors, about forty more, scarce any of whom had arms. The
printed accounts tell us, indeed, that they observed about
two hundred armed men. Possibly the intelligence they
had before received had frightened those that gave the
account to the General, so that they saw more than dou-
ble. The said account, which lias little truth in it, says,
" that Major Pitcairn galloping up to the head of the ad-
vanced companies, two officers informed him, that a man
(advanced from those that were assembled) had presented
his musket, and attempted to shoot them, but the piece
flashed in the pan."

The simple truth, I take to be this, which I received
from one of the prisoners at Concord in free conversation,
one James Marr, a native of Aberdeen, in Scotland, of
the Fourth Regiment, who was upon the advanced guard,

consisting of six, besides a sergeant and corporal : They
were met by three men on horseback before they got to
the meeting-house a good way ; an officer bid them stop ;
to which it was answered, you had better turn back, for
you shall not enter the Town ; when the said three per-
sons rode back again, and at some distance one of them
offered to fire, but the piece flashed in the pan without
going off". 1 asked Marr whether he could tell if the
piece was designed at the soldiers, or to give an alarm r
He could not say which. The said Marr further declared,
that when they and the others were advanced, Major Pit-
cairn said to the Lexington Company, (which, by the by,
was the only one there,) stop, you rebels ! and he supposed
that the design was to take away their arms ; but upon
seeing the Regulars they dispersed, and a firing commen-
ced, but who fired first he could not say. The said Marr,
together with Evan Davies of the Twenty-Third, George
Cooper of the Twenty-Third, and William McDonald of
the Thirty-Eighth, respectively assured me in each other's
presence, that being in the room where John Bateman, of
the Fifty-Second, was, (he was in an adjoining room, too
ill to admit of my conversing with him,) they heard the
said Bateman say, that the Regulars fired first, and saw
him go through the solemnity of confirming the same by
an oath on the bible.

Samuel Lee, a private in the Eighteenth Regiment,
Royal Irish, acquainted me, that it was the talk among
the soldiers that Major Pitcairn fired his pistol, then drew
his sword, and ordered them to fire ; which agrees with
what Levi Harrington, a youth of fourteen last Novem-
ber, told me, that being upon the common, and hearing the
Regulars were coming up, he went to the meeting-house,
and saw them down in the road, on which he returned to
the Lexington Company ; that a person on horseback rode
round the meeting, and came towards the company that
way, said something loud, but could not tell what, rode a
little further, then stopped and fired a pistol, which was
the first report he heard, then another on horseback fired
his pistol ; then three or four Regulars fired their guns ;
upon which, hearing the bullets whistle, he ran off", and
saw no more of the affair.

Mr. Paul Revere, who was sent express, was taken and
detained some time by the officers, being afterwards upon
the spot, and finding the Regulars at hand, passed through
the Lexington Company with another, having between
them a box of papers belonging to Mr. Hancock, and
went down a cross road, till there was a house so between
him and the company as that he could not see the latter;
he told me likewise, that he had not got half a gun-shot
from them before the Regulars appeared ; that they halted
about three seconds ; that upon hearing the report of a
pistol or gun, he looked round, and saw the smoke in front
of the Regulars, our people being out of view because of
the house ; then the Regulars huzzaed and fired, first two
more guns, then the advanced guard, and so the whole
body. The bullets flying thick about him, and he having
nothing to defend himself with, ran into a wood, where he
halted, and heard the firing for about a quarter of an hour.

James Brown, one of the Lexington Militia, informed
me, that he was upon the common ; that two pistols were
fired from the party of the soldiers towards the Militia-
men as they were getting over the wall to be out of the
way, and that immediately upon it the soldiers began to
fire their guns ; that being got over the wall, and seeing
the soldiers fire pretty freely, he fired upon them, and
some others did the same.

Simon Winship of Lexington, declared, that being upon
the road about four o'clock, two miles and an half on this
side of the meeting-house, he was stopped by the Regu-
lars, and commanded by some of the officers to dismount,
or he was a dead man ; that he was obliged to march with
the said Troops until he came within about half a quarter
of a mile of the said meeting-house, when an officer
commanded the Troops to halt, and then to prime and
load ; which being done, the Troops marched on till they
came within a few rods of Captain Parker's Lexington
Company, who were partly collected on the place of pa-
rade, when said ffinship observed an officer at the head
of said Troops flourishing his sword round his head in the
air, and with a loud voice giving the word fire ; the said
Winship is positive that there was no discharge of arms

629

CORRESPONDENCE, PROCEEDINGS, fee, MAY, 1775.

630

on either side, until the word fire was given by the said
officer as above.

I shall not trouble you with more particulars, but give
you the substance as it lies in my own mind, collected
from the persons whom I examined for my own satisfac-
tion. The Lexington Company upon seeing the Troops,
and being of themselves so unequal a match for them,
were deliberating for a few moments what they should do,
when several dispersing of their own heads, the Captain
soon ordered the rest to disperse for their own safety.
Before the order was given, three or four of the -regular
officers, seeing the company as they came up on the
rising ground on this side the meeting, rode forward one
or more, round the meeting-house, leaving it on the right
hand, and so came upon them that way ; upon coming up
one cried out, "you damned rebels, lay down your arms ;"
another, " stop, you rebels ;" a third, " disperse, you rebels,"
&c. Major Pitcairn, I suppose, thinking himself justified
by Parliamentary authority to consider them as rebels, per-
ceiving that they did not actually lay down their arms,
observing that the generality were getting off, while a few
continued in their military position, and apprehending there
could be no great hurt in killing a few such Yankees, which
might probably, according to the notions that had been
instilled into him by the tory party, of the Americans
being poltrons, end all the contest, gave the command to
fire, then fired his own pistol, and so set the whole affair
agoing. The printed account says very different; but what-
ever the General may have sent home in support of that
account, the publick have nothing but bare assertions, and
I have such valid evidence of the falsehood of several
matters therein contained, that with me it has very little
weight. The same account tells us, that several shots
were fired from a meeting-house on the left, of which I
heard not a single syllable, either from the prisoners or
others, and the mention of which it would have been
almost impossible to have avoided, had it been so, by one
or another among the numbers with whom 1 freely and
familiarly conversed. There is a curious note at the bot-
tom of the account, telling us, that notwithstanding the fire
from the meeting-house, Colonel Smith and Major Pit-
cairn, with the greatest difficulty kept the soldiers from
forcing into the meeting-house, and putting all those in it
to death. Would you not suppose that there was a great
number in the meeting-house, while the Regulars were
upon the common on the right of it, between that and the
Lexington Company ? Without doubt. And who do you
imagine they were ? One Joshua Simonds, who happened
to be getting powder there as the Troops arrived ; besides
whom, I believe there were not two, if so much as one ;
for by reason of the position of the meeting-house, none
would have remained in it through choice but fools and
madmen. However, if Colonel Smith and Major Pit-
cairn's humanity prevented the soldiers putting all those
persons to death, their military skill should certainly have
made some of them prisoners, and the account should have
given us their names. To what 1 have wrote respecting
Major Pitcairn, I am sensible his general character may
be objected. But character must not be allowed to over-
throw positive evidence when good, and the conclusions
fairly deduced therefrom. Besides, since hearing from
Mr. Jones in what shameful abusive manner, with oaths
and curses, he was treated by the Major at Concord, for
shutting the doors of his tavern against him and the Troops;
and in order to terrify him to make discoveries of stores ;
and the manner in which the Major crowed over the two
four-and-twenty pounders found in the yard, as a mighty
acquisition, worthy the expedition on which the detach-
ment was employed, I have no such great opinion of the
Major's character; though, when he found that nothing
could be done of any great importance by bullying, blus-
tering, and threatening, he could alter his tone, begin to
coax, and offer a reward. It may be said this Jones was a
jailer; yes, and such a jailer as I would give credit to,
sooner than the generality of those officers that will degrade
the British arms, by employing their swords in taking away
the rights of a free people, when they ought to be devoted
to a good cause only. There were killed at Lexington
eight persons — one Parker of the same name with the
Captain of the company, and two or three more, on the
common ; the rest on the other side of the walls and

fences while dispersing. The soldiers fired at persons who
had no arms. Eight hundred of the best British Troops
in America having thus nobly vanquished a company of
non-resisting Yankees while dispersing, and slaughtering a
few of them by way of experiment, marched forward in
the greatness of their might to Concord. The Concord
people had received the alarm, and had drawn themselves
up in order for defence ; upon a messenger's coming and
telling them that the Regulars were three times their num-
ber, they prudently changed their situation, determining to
wait for reinforcements from the neighbouring Towns,
which were now alarmed ; but as to the vast numbers of
armed people seen assembling on all the heights, as related
in the account, 'tis mostly fiction. The Concord Company
retired over the north bridge, and when strengthened re-
turned to it, with a view of dislodging Captain Laurie,
and securing it for themselves. They knew not what had
happened at Lexington, and therefore orders were given
by the commander not to give the first fire. They boldly
marched towards it, though not in great numbers, (as told
in the account,) and were fired upon by the Regulars, by
which fire a Captain belonging to Acton was killed, and I
think a private. The Reverend Mr. Emerson of Concord,
living in the neighbourhood of the bridge, who gave me
the account, went near enough to see it, and was nearer the
Regulars than the killed. He was very uneasy till he
found that the fire was returned, and continued till the Reg-
ulars were drove off. Lieutenant Gould, who was at the
bridge, and was wounded and taken prisoner, has deposed
that their Regulars gave the first fire there, though the
printed narrative asserts the contrary ; and the soldiers
that knew any thing of the matter, with whom I conversed,
made no scruple of owning the same that Mr. Gould de-
posed.

After the engagement began, the whole detachment col-
lected together as fast as it could. The narrative tells us,
that as Captain Parsons returned with his three companies
over the bridge, they observed three soldiers on the ground,
one of them scalped, his head much mangled, and his ears
cut off, though not quite dead ; all this is not fiction,
though the most is. The Reverend Mr. Emerson in-
formed me how the matter was, with great concern for its
having happened. A young fellow coming over the bridge
in order to join the country people, and seeing the soldier
wounded and attempting to get up, not being under the
feelings of humanity, very barbarously broke his skull, and
let out his brains with a small axe, (apprehend of the toma-
hawk kind,) but as to his being scalped and having his ears
cut off, there was nothing in it. The poor object lived an
hour or two before he expired. The detachment, when
joined by Captain Parsons, made a hasty retreat, finding
by woful experience that the Yankees would fight, and
that their numbers would be continually increasing. The
Regulars were pushed with vigour by the country people,
who took the advantage of walls, fences, &c, but those
that could get up to engage were not upon equal terms
with the Regulars in point of number any part of the day,
though the country was collecting together from all quar-
ters, and had there been two hours more for it, would pro-
bably have cut off both detachment and Brigade, or made
them prisoners. The soldiers being obliged to retreat with
haste to Lexington, had no time to do any considerable
mischief. But a little on this side Lexington Meeting-
House where they were met by the Brigade, with cannon,
under Lord Percy, the scene changed. The inhabitants
had quitted their houses in general upon the road, leaving
almost every thing behind them, and thinking themselves
well off in escaping with their lives. The soldiers burnt
in Lexington three houses, one barn, and two shops, one
of which joined to the house, and a mill-house adjoining
to the barn ; other houses and buildings were attempted to
be burnt, and narrowly escaped. You would have been
shocked at the destruction which has been made by the
Regulars, as they are miscalled, had you been present with
me to have beheld it. Many houses were plundered of
every thing valuable that could be taken away, and what
could not be carried off was destroyed ; looking-glasses,
pots, pans, Sic, were broke all to pieces; doors when not
fastened, sashes and windows wantonly damaged and de-
stroyed. The people say that the soldiers are worse than
the Indians ; in short, they have given the Country such

631

CORRESPONDENCE, PROCEEDINGS, he, MAY, 1775.

632

an early specimen of their brutality as will make the inha-
bitants dread submission to the power of the British .Min-
istry, and determine them to fight desperately rather than
have such cruel masters to lord it over them. The Troops
at length reached Chaiiestowit, where there was no attack-
ing them with safety to the Town, and that night and the
next day crossed over in boats to Boston, where they con-
tinue to be shut up ; for the people poured down in so
amazing a manner from all parts, for scores of miles round,
(even the grey-beaded came to assist their countrymen,)
the General was obliged to set about further fortifying the
Town immediately at all points and places.

The proceedings of April 19th have united the Colony
and Continent, and brought in New-York to act as vigor-
ously as any other place whatsoever ; and has raised an
army in an instant, which are lodged in the several houses
of the Towns round Boston till their tents are finished,
which will be soon. All that is attended to, besides plough-
ing and planting, &ic, is making ready for fighting. The
non-importations and non-ex portations will now take place
from necessity, and traffick give place to war.

We have a fine spring, prospects of great plenty ; there
was scarce ever known such a good fall of lambs ; we are
in no danger of starving through the cruel acts against the
New-England Governments ; and the men who had been
used to the fishery, (a hardy generation of people,) Lord
North has undesignedly kept in the Country to give strength
to our military operations, and to assist as occasion may
require : thanks to a superiour wisdom for his blunders.
The General is expecting reinforcements, but few have
arrived as yet; the winds, contrary to the common run at
this season, instead of being easterly, have been mostly the
reverse. When the reinforcement arrives, and is recovered
of the voyage, the General will be obliged in honour to
attempt dislodging the people, and penetrating into the
country ; both soldiers and inhabitants are in want of fresh
provisions, and will be like to suffer much, should the Pro-
vincial Army be able to keep the Town shut up on all
sides, excepting by water, as at present.

The General engaged with the Selectmen of Boston,
that if the Town's people would deliver up their arms into
their custody, those that chose it should be allowed to go
out with their effects. The townsmen complied, and the
General forfeited his word, for which there will be an after
reckoning, should they ever have it in their power to call
him to an account. A few have been allowed to come out
with many of their effects ; numbers are not permitted to
come out, and the chief of those who have been, have been
obliged to leave their merchandise and goods (linen and
household stuff, cash and plate excepted) behind them.
You must look back to the origin of the United Provinces,
that you may have an idea of the resolution of this people.
May the present struggle end as happily in favour of Ame-
rican liberty, without proving the destruction of Great
Britain. We are upon a second edition of King Charles
the First's reign, enlarged. May the dispute be adjusted
before the times are too tragical to admit of it. Both offi-
cers and privates have altered their opinion of the Yankees
very much since the 18th of April.

The detachment while at Concord disabled two twenty-
four-pounders, destroyed their two carriages and seven
wheels for the same, with their limbers ; sixteen wheels for
brass three-pounders, and two carriages, with limber and
wheels for two four-pounders ; five hundred pounds of ball
thrown into the river, wells, and other places ; and broke
in pieces about sixty barrels of flour, half of which was
saved. Cannot be certain of the number that were killed.
Apprehend, upon the whole, the Regulars had more than
one hundred killed, and one hundred and fifty wounded,
besides about fifty taken prisoners. The country people
had about forty killed, seven or eight taken prisoners, and
a few wounded.

N. B. I never saw the printed account till Monday, so
that I was not directed by it in any of my inquiries when
at Lexington and Concord. The General, I am persuaded,
gave positive orders to the detachment not to fire first, or I
am wholly mistaken in my opinion of him. The prison-
ers at Worcester, Concord, and Lexington, all agreed in
tlieir being exceedingly well used. The policy of the
people would determine them thereto, if their humanity
did not.

Worcester, May 17, 1775.

A great number of that arch traitor Hutchinson's letters
have lately fell into the hands of our people. By them
is discovered the diabolical plans that have been laid to
enslave this Country, and show to the world what an inde-
fatigable slave he has been to his masters the Ministry, and
their grand master the Devil. These letters will, undoubt-
edly, be soon made publick. A correspondent at Roxbury
has favoured us with the following extract from one of them,
to General Gage, then at New- York :

"Boston, July 23, 1771.

"Sir: I have the honour of your letter of the 15th.
Yesterday a vessel arrived, which left London on the 24th
of May. I have letters to the 22d. Parliament rose the
9th, and nothing done as to America. 1 send you a pas-
sage of a letter from Sir Francis Bernard. I have the
honour to be, very respectfully, &tc.

" Sir: It appears to me to be a matter of great impor-
tance to His Majesty's general service, and to the real in-
terest of the Colony, that the discord beginning between
New-York and us should be encouraged. I wrote some
time ago to Mr. Colden upon this subject, but he rather
declined concerning himself in it. There is certainly a
strong aversion, which nothing but the confederacy against
Great Britain could have conquered. This has too much
the appearance of Machiavelian policy ; but it is justifi-
able, as it has the most obvious tendency to save the Col-
onies from ruining themselves, as well as distressing the
Mother Country. If Pennsylvania could be brought to
take part with New-York, I think the business would be
done. I must beg the favour of you not to suffer this letter
to come under any other than your own observation. I
have the honour to be," he. &.c.

NORTHBOROUGH COMMITTEE OF CORRESPONDENCE TO
GENERAL WARD.

Northborough, May 17, 1775.

Sir: We, the Committee of Correspondence for the
Town of Northborough, have taken into our custody Mr.
Ebenezer Cutler, late of Groton, but now of this Town,
who, from his conduct, appears to us to be an avowed ene-
my to his Country. He has set at naught and despised all
the Resolutions, &.c. of the Continental and Provincial
Congresses, and also utterly refuses to act in any defence
of his now perishing Country whatever ; and as he has, from
his past conduct, ever since we have been struggling for the
liberties of our Country, appeared in the eyes of the pub-
lick to be aiding and abetting in defeating the plans of the
good people of this Province, and has been riding from
one part of this Province to the other, and, in our opinion,
for no good design, we think it highly necessary to send
him to the Council of War, to know whether he may (as
he deserves) have a pass to go into Boston. We also
enclose the substance of two evidences concerning said
Cutler. By order of the Committee of Correspondence :

Gillam Bass, Clerk.

To the Hon. General Artemas Ward, Esq., or Council of
War now sitting at Cambridge,

N. B. General Ward, we apprehend, is well acquainted
with the -character and conduct of said Cutler.

PORTSMOUTH COMMITTEE TO NEW-HAMPSHIRE CONGRESS.

Portsmouth, May 17, 1775.

Sir : A brig from Biddeford, in England, arrived this
day, the master of which has just been with the Commit-
tee, and acquaints them that his orders are to take on board
six masts, of about sixteen inches diameter.

We are informed that the ship lately built at Casco Bay,
which arrived in the harbour this morning, is come with
the intention to load masts, which are now ready for her.
The opinion of the Congress touching the propriety of
shipping the masts, is desired as soon as may be.

We have heard that part of the Troops from England
arrived yesterday at Boston. I am, by order of the Com-
mittee, Sir, your most humble servant,

H. Wentworth, Chairman.

To the President of the Provincial Congress, at Eveter.

633

CORRESPONDENCE, PROCEEDINGS, &c., .MAY, 1775.

63-1

NEWCASTLE (DELAWARE) COMMITTEE.

New cattle, on Delaware, ss :

Whereas, the Committee chosen in the several Hun-
dreds of the County of Newcastle, did, at their meeting on
the third day of May instant, take " into consideration the
present distressed and defenceless situation of the inhabit-
ants of this County, and the unhappy circumstances of
their brethren in the other Colonies ;" and did therefore
" resolve unanimously, that a sum of Money be imme-
diately raised for establishing a fund for procuring and pro-
viding the necessary means for our and their protection and
support ;" and further, " that the sum of one shilling and
six pence in the Pound, be collected from each taxable in-
habitant in the County, according to the County rates, as
well estates as those resident, for the purposes aforesaid,"
to be collected by the members of the said Committee :

And whereas the said Committee have found a difficulty
in collecting the said Money : We, the subscribers, Jus-
tices of the Peace and Grand Jurymen for the County
aforesaid, do hereby engage, under the solemn ties of vir-
tue, honour, and love of our Country, that, in order to
remedy the inconvenience which the Committee aforesaid
have met with in the collection of the said Money, we and
each of us will, at the Levy Court next to be held for this
County, vote for, and to the utmost of our power promote
the laying a Tax of one shilling and six pence in the
Pound, upon the " taxables, as well estates as those resi-
sident," in this County, for the purposes aforesaid, in addi-
tion to the tax which may be necessary for the current
expenses of the County ; out of which additional tax all
sums of money already, or which may hereafter be paid in
compliance with the said Resolves of the Committee, are
to be deducted, and credit given for them to the persons
who have paid or may pay the same, respectively.
Witness our hands, this 18th day of May, 1775.
George Monroe, John Jones,

Morton Morton, John Evans,

William Hemphill, Thomas Cooch,
Thomas Kean, David Finney,

George Evans, James Latimer,

William Anderson, R. Cantwell,
John James, John Malcolm,

Robert Kirkwood, George Craghead,
David Howell, John Stapler,

John Hyatt, William Patterson,

John Taylor, Samuel Patterson,

William Read, Thomas McKim,

William Clark, Grand Jurymen.

John McKinley, Chairman.

It being found quite impracticable to raise the sums of
money that were necessary for the purposes aforemention-
ed, in so short a time as the urgency required, in the usual
legal ways, therefore the Committee were obliged to adopt
the aforegoing method, as appearing the most speedy, ef-
fectual, and equitable manner of raising the same; and it
is hoped that all lovers of their Country will readily pay
their several quotas to the Committee-men of their respec-
tive Hundreds, who have undertaken to collect the same
without any fees or commissions, as the money is imme-
diately wanted.

Each of the Committee of Correspondence are required
to be diligent in collecting, as speedily as possible, what
money has been subscribed and not paid towards the relief
of our suffering brethren at Boston, and to apply to such
as have not before contributed to their support, as their
situation is at present most deplorable.

few minutes for their affairs, which is truly a business of
the last consequence to them, threatening them with no
less than absolute ruin.

We have an account that Lord Dunmore has been
obliged to abandon his Government ; it is the only piece
of good news has reached us since the disputes with Great
Britain took so serious a turn ; but I doubt the truth of it.

The Pittsburgh Court is now sitting ; whether they do
business or not, I have not heard. The proposition for the
relief of Cavet and Hanna, though I believe it practicable
enough, I would do nothing in without the Govemour's
concurrence, as it might be attended with serious conse-
quences.

Yesterday we had a County meeting, and have come to
resolutions to arm and discipline, and have formed an As-
sociation, which 1 suppose you will soon see in the papers.
God grant an end may be speedily put to any necessity for
such proceedings. I doubt their utility, and am almost as
much afraid of success in this contest, as of being van-
quished. 1 am, with much respect, dear Sir, your most
obedient and most humble servant,

Ar. St. Clair.

Joseph Shippen, Junior, Philadelphia.

ARTHUR ST. CLAIR TO JOSEPH SHIPPEN, JUN.

Ligonier, May 18, 1775.

Dear Sir: I yesterday received the enclosed letter from
Mr. Cavet, with the contents of which I request you will
make the Governour acquainted. You see Hanna and he
are very uneasy, which is really not to be wondered at, as
they have been now upwards of three months in confine-
ment, for paying obedience to his Honour's Proclamation,
and have not had a single line from any person about Gov-
ernment, or any directions how to conduct themselves.
The Governour in these times must be occupied by objects
of much greater magnitude ; but I wish he could spare a

NEWARK (NEW-JERSEY) COMMITTEE.

At a meeting of the General Committee of Association
for the Township of Newark, in New-Jersey, on Thurs-
day, the 18th day of May, 1775:

The Committee taking into consideration the Resolu-
tions of the Committees of New-York and other Prov-
inces, relative to the suspension of all exportation to Qmc-
beck, Nova-Scotia, Georgia, and Newfoundland, or any
part of the Fishing Coasts and Fishing Islands ; and highly
approving the same, do resolve that it be recommended to
the gentlemen Traders of this Town, that they stop all ex-
portations to the said places ; and also to our constituents
in general, that they do not supply any person whatsoever
with any kind of Exports, which they have reason to be-
lieve are designed for either of those places, nor any of the
King's ships or boats with provisions clandestinely ; nor in
any manner whatsoever that may counteract any Resolu-
tions that have been made by the Committee of New-
York. By order of the Committee :

Lewis Ogden, Chairman.

INSTRUCTIONS TO DELEGATES FROM NEWARK IN CONGRESS
OF NEW-JERSEY.

At a meeting of the General Committee of Association
held at Newark, the 18th day of May, 1775:

The following Instructions to Isaac Ogden and Philip
Van Cortlandt, Esquires, Messrs. Bethuel Pierson and Ca-
leb Camp, the Deputies elected to represent said Town in
Provincial Congress, were unanimously agreed on :

Gentlemen : The great, the important crisis which will
determine the fate of America, seems hastily approaching;
a crisis in which not only you, the fond wives of your
bosoms, the infants of your tenderest solicitude ; but mil-
lions of your posterity yet unborn, and every thing that is
near and dear to you, worthy your wish, or meriting your
care, are deeply interested ; a crisis which will decide
whether this Continent shall be governed by the unlimited
will of a Senate in which it has no voice ; by a power
without the right, over which it can have no influence or
control ; whether it shall be forever bound in wretched,
relentless chains of slavery, or whether the glorious sun of
constitutional liberty shall still enlighten this horizon, and
permanently shine, unclouded with the tainted breath of
despotism.

To you, gentlemen, is delegated by the inhabitants of
this Town one of the most important trusts in their power,
which nothing less than tyrant necessity could have urged
them to grant, or you to accept ; a necessity which, with
hearts glowing with affection, overflowing with loyalty to
our Sovereign, we unfeignedly lament.

We need not, we mean not, gentlemen, to wish you ad-
ditional firmness in the common cause ; your being chosen
to this trust sufficiently approves your principles and steady
regard to the duties, the great interests of your delegation :
nor need we advise that you carry with you that spirit of

635

CORRESPONDENCE, PROCEEDINGS, &c, MAY, 1775.

636

harmony, iliat firmness with moderation, which we are
happy to say animates this part of the Province ; and as
we have the pleasure and reason to expect that the interests
of the general weal, on constitutional ground, will he the
constant line of your conduct ; that you will keep this goal
steadily in view ; so we do not wish to bind you with an
embarrassing chain of restrictions, much less do we pre-
sume to dictate measures to the Provincial Congress ; but
shall only lay before you some outlines of a plan which we
desire you to propose to the wisdom of that Convention.

-Money has been aptly called the sinews of war ; so may
it also the anima that enlivens, that braces and gives firm-
ness to the nerves of our Constitution. In the alarming
exigency rising before us, there will probably be occasion
for a publick fund ; and we could wish, as the whole Prov-
ince is equally interested, that the burden should be also
equal. We conceive, when the necessary sum is fixed by
the Congress, that the present Quota Bill, by which the
proportion of taxes in the several Counties for the support
of Government, he, has been ascertained, will be a just
scale to regulate the present occasion ; and perhaps the
Assessors and Collectors in the several Townships may, in
general, be proper persons to conduct the like business,
leaving it in the option of such Towns as may incline to
make a special choice of new officers for this purpose.

We consider it advisable that a certain number of men
be immediately raised, disciplined, well accoutred with
arms and ammunition, and prepared in every respect for an
instant service.

That as men who go volunteers will be most likely to
be hearty in the service, and the disagreeable measure of
draughting from the Militia may thereby be prevented, a
roll be opened in every Town where it can be advanta-
geously, for the enlistment of Volunteers, to be prepared
as above-mentioned, for every emergency ; that the Con-
gress appoint the commandant and all the field-officers, and
that the General Committees of those Towns where any
company or companies shall be raised, have the appoint-
ment of the Captains and subalterns ; that one or more
proper persons be empowered by the Congress to sign and
affix a proper seal to the commissions, agreeable to such
appointment ; that the Volunteers, on their enlistment, sub-
scribe certain articles, to oblige themselves, under certain
penalties, (to be ascertained by the Congress, similar to
the Mutiny Bill, if thought proper,) to be obedient to their
officers, and to prevent desertion ; that proper persons be
appointed for a Treasurer of said fund, and for a Paymas-
ter-General, giving the necessary security, &tc. ;-that the
pay for the officers and men be fixed by the Congress ;
and that the said Volunteers, from the day of their enlist-
ment, be in discipline at least so much time as may amount
to one day in a week ; and also such further time, not ex-
ceeding days in the whole, per week, as shall be

judged expedient by the said General Committees ; that
sufficient arms and ammunition for such Volunteers as are
unable to furnish themselves therewith, and provisions for
emergent occasions, be provided ; and that every Volunteer
entrusted with the arms, Stc, belonging to the Province,
be obligated to return them to the Commanding Officer,
when called for, except such as may be lost in the service,
&zc. ; that magazines of powder and other necessary mili-
tary stores be formed in such parts of the Province as shall
be judged most advantageous for emergencies ; that Com-
missioners be appointed to direct and regulate any contin-
gent business which cannot be ascertained with precision by
the Congress ; that Muster-Masters be appointed to review
the companies, and to take care that none but able-bodied
men be continued on the rolls ; nor any apprentice or servant
enlisted, without his master's consent in writing ; that a pro-
per number of field-pieces be provided, and one or more
Artillery Companies raised and disciplined. As exigencies
may happen which may require a greater force than the num-
ber of Volunteers to be raised as aforesaid, that the Congress
recommend it to the Militia Captains throughout the Prov-
ince to procure such persons as are capable of teaching
military discipline, to be paid out of the publick fund ; and

that their men be exercised at least times per week ;

that it be recommended by the Congress to the several
Towns or Counties throughout the Province, who have not
already done it, to appoint General Committees to enter
into and subscribe an Association of similar import to that

adopted by this County. We are, gentlemen, your hum-
ble servants. By order of the Committee :

Lewis Ogden, Chairman.

NEW-YORK COMMITTEE.

The Committee met Thursday, the 18th of jMay, 1775.
Present :

Isaac Low,
P. V. B. Livingston,
Alex. McDougall,
Thomas Randall,
Leonard Lispenard,
William Walton,
John Broome,
Joseph Hallett,
Gabriel H. Ludlow,
Nicholas Roosevelt,
Nicholas Hoffman,
Abraham Walton,
Peter Van Schaack,
Henry Kemsen,
Peter T. Curtenius,
Abraham Brasher,
Abraham P. Lott,
Abraham Duryee,
Joseph Totten,
Thomas Ivers,
Hercules Mulligan,
John Anthony,

Victor Bicker,
John White,
Theophilus Anthony,
William Goforth,
Comfort Sands,
Robert Benson,
William W. Gilbert,
John Berrian,
Gabriel W. Ludlow,
Edward Fleming,
John De Laneey,
Frederick Jay,
William W. Ludlow,
John B. Moore,
John Lasher,
George Janeway,
Jann s Beekman,
Samuel Verplanck,
Richard Yates,
Augustus Van Home,
Gerret Kettletas,
Benjamin Kissam,

Cornelius C'lopper,
John Roade,
John Van Cortlandt,
Gcrardus Duyckinck,
Peter (<oelet,
Thomas Marston,
Jacobus Lefferts,
Richard Sharpe,
Hamilton Young,
Abram. Brinkerhoff,
Benjamin Holme,
Walter Franklin,
Evert Banker,
Robert Ray,
Nicholas Bogart,
AVilliam Laight,
John Lamb,
Anthony Van Dam,
Daniel Dunscomb,
John Inilay,
Oliver Templeton,
Thomas Buchannan.

Ordered, That Colonel Walton, Colonel Lispenard,
Colonel Beelcman, Major Van Dam, Mr. Brasher, Mr.
Lasher, Mr. Fleming, and Mr. Curtenius, be a Committee
for instituting a Military Night Watch in this City, to con-
sist of forty men, each with an officer to command them,
and that they report the mode to this Committee with all
convenient speed.

Ordered, That the following Letter be immediately
despatched to his Honour the Governour of Connecticut,
to wit :

New.York, May 18, 1775.

Sir: As we have great reason to expect the arrival of
Troops from Britain, to be quartered in this Province, we
thought it a necessary piece of precaution to ask of the Con-
tinental Congress a line of conduct for our inhabitants on that
event. We have received their directions on that head, as
appears by the enclosed. We have also been informed that
our brethren of Connecticut, attentive to the common cause,
and kindly tendering the safety of this City in its present
defenceless state, are upon the point of marching a con-
siderable body of Troops into it with intent to assist us in
securing it against any attempt to reduce it to the condition
of a garrison-town or place of arms. We have on this head
to request your Honour, should those Troops be about to
march, to direct their encampment on the Western fron-
tiers of your Colony, if your Honour should think it expe-
dient they should proceed so far, until some plan can be
properly settled with our Provincial Congress, who are to
meet on the 22d instant, so as to place their introduction,
if necessary, on such a basis as will produce perfect con-
cord and unanimity, and most effectually answer the valu-
able ends of so friendly a succour.

To His Honour Jonathan Trumbull, Esquire.

Directions for a Military Watch in the City of New-
York.

First. That a guard be mounted every evening at eight
o'clock, at the City-Hall, consisting of not less than forty
men properly officered.

Second. That detachments be made from the said guard
to patrole the streets every two hours, under the command
of a non-commissioned officer, accompanied by a constable
or other civil officer, who may be directed by a Magistrate
to attend from nine o'clock in the evening until five o'clock
in the morning.

Third. That they pay particular attention that no Pro-
visions be exported from this City ; and if any persons are
discovered exporting Provisions contrary to the Resolves
of this Committee, to take particular notice of them, and
endeavour, by persuasion and other peaceable methods, to
prevent it, and that they make a report thereof.

Fourth. That the patroles do not challenge persons,
boats, &c, but watch their motions, if suspected, and by
all means endeavour to prevent outrage on person or pro-
perty, and report the perpetrators.

637

CORRESPONDENCE, PROCEEDINGS, &c, MAY, 1775.

638

Fifth. That no unnecessary and wanton alarm be given
to our fellow-citizens, either by firing of guns, beating of
drums, or otherwise, in the night, but that all their opera-
tions be conducted with that manly prudence and discre-
tion becoming citizens zealous to support their freedom
without tumult and disorder.

Sixth. That the commanding officer of the guard dis-
miss his guard at five o'clock in the morning, and report in
writing by ten o'clock, to the Chairman, Deputy, or Chair-
man pro tempore, all extraordinary occurrences which may
have happened during the time of his being on duty, signed
by himself. Abm. Brasher, Edward Fleming,

John Lasher, Alex. McDougall.

At a special meeting of the Committee, 19th of May
1775:

The Chairman produced a Letter delivered him by his
Worship the Mayor, in answer to a Resolution of yester-
day, requesting him to furnish Captain Montague with a
copy of Charles Murray's Affidavit.

Ordered, That Mr. Scott, Mr. Kissam, Mr. Van Schaaclc,
Mr. Helme, Mr. Jones, Mr. Ritzma, Mr. Murray, and Mr.
Smith, be a Committee to inquire into the merits of Cap-
tain Montague's plea for having seized the Powder, &tc,
on board of Captain Murray's Vessel, and report their
opinion thereon to the Committee at their next meeting.

At a meeting of the Committee, May 20, 1775. Present
forty-six Members.

Ordered, That Mr. Van Dam, Mr. Burling, Mr. Tot-
ten, and Mr. Laight, be a Committee to form an estimate
of what Stores may be necessary to forward to Albany.

Mr. Charles McEvers exhibited a complaint in writing
against Mr. John Anderson.

A Letter from the Continental Congress, dated May
18, 1775, enclosing a Resolve of that Board, was received
and read.

Mr. McDougall reported the draft of a Letter to the
Committee at Albany, which being approved of,

Ordered, That the same be forwarded.

( OMMITTEE OF PALATINE DISTRICT, TRYON COUNTY, NEW-
YORK, TO THE ALBANY COMMITTEE.

May 18, 1775.
We are so peculiarly circumstanced in this County, re-
lating to the present struggle for American liberty, that we
cannot longer defer laying the situation of this County
before you. The District we represent has been foremost
in avowing its attachment to liberty, and approving the
method of opposition adopted in America, and are now
signing an Association similar to what has been signed in
other Counties in this Province, and we hope in a few
days to have (he pleasure to transmit it down for the press.
The County being extensive, it takes a considerable time
before the people who are favourable to the cause can be
got to sign ; for we have caused copies of the Association
to be dispersed in divers parts of the County. This
County has, for a series of years, been ruled by one family,
the different branches of which are still strenuous in dis-
suading people from coming into Congressional measures,
and even have, last week, at a numerous meeting of the
Mohawk District, appeared with all their dependants armed
to oppose the people considering of their grievances ; their
number being so large, and the people unarmed, struck
terrour into most of them, and they dispersed. We are
informed that Johnson-Hall is fortifying by placing a parcel
of swivel-guns round the same, and that Colonel Johnson
has had parts of his regiment of Militia under arms yes-
terday, no doubt with a design to prevent the friends of
liberty from publishing their attachment to the cause to the
world. Besides which we are told that about one hun-
dred and fifty Highlanders, (Roman Catholicks,) in and
about Johnstown, are armed and ready to march upon the
like occasion. We have been informed that Colonel John-
son has stopped two New-Englanders, and searched them,
being, we suppose, suspicious that they came to solicit aid
from us or the Indians, whom we dread most, there being
a current report through the County that they are to be
made use of in keeping us in awe.

We recommend it strongly and seriously to you to take
it in your consideration, whether any powder and ammu-
nition ought to be permitted to be sent up this way, unless
it is done under the inspection of the Committee, and con-
signed to the Committee here, and for such particular shop-
keepers as we in our next shall acquaint you of. We are
determined to suffer none in our District to sell any but
such as we approve of, and sign the Association. When
any thing particular comes to our knowledge relating to the
Indians, (whom we shall watch,) or any other thing inter-
esting, we shall take the earliest opportunity in communi-
cating the same to you. And as we are a young County,
remote from the Metropolis, we beg you will give us all
the intelligence in your power. We shall not be able to
send down any Deputies to the Provincial Congress, as we
cannot possibly obtain the sense of the County soon enough
to make it worth our while to send any, but be assured we
are not the less attached to American liberty. For we
are determined, although few in number, to let the world
see who are, and who are not such ; and to wipe off the
indelible disgrace brought on us by the Declaration signed
by our Grand Jury and some of our Magistrates, who, in
general, are considered by the majority of the County as
enemies to their Country. In a word, gentlemen, it is our
fixed resolution to support and carry into execution every
thing recommended by the Continental Congress, and to
be free or die.

COLONEL GUY JOHNSON TO THE COMMITTEE OF SCHE-
NECTADY, NEW-YORK.

Guy Park, May 18, 1775.

Gentlemen: We have, for some days past, heard of many
threats from the publick, that gives us reason to apprehend
that the persons or properties of gentlemen of the first
consideration, both with respect to station and property,
would have been insulted in this County, and myself in
particular, under colour of a gross and notorious falsehood,
uttered by some worthless scoundrels, respecting my inten-
tions as Superintendent of Indian Affairs. To gentle-
men of sense and moderation, these malicious, ill-founded
charges ought to be self-evidently false ; my duty is to pro-
mote peace, and my office of the highest importance to the
trade and frontiers. But as these reports are daily in-
creasing, it becomes me, both as a subject and a man, to
disavow them, and until I can find out and chastise the
author, to assure the publick of their mistake, and to in-
form them that it has rendered it my duty for self-preser-
vation so necessary, that I have taken precaution to give
a very hot and disagreeable reception to any persons that
shall attempt to invade my retreat ; at the same time that
I have no intention to disturb those who choose to permit
me the honest exercise of my reason and duties of my
office, and requesting that you will immediately cause this
to be made publick to the Albany Committee, I remain,
gentlemen, your very humble servant, G. Johnson.

AUTHENTICK ACCOUNT OF THE TAKING OF FORTRESSES AT
TICONDEROGA AND CROWN POINT, BY A PARTY OF THE
CONNECTICUT FORCES.

NtfW.York, May 18, 1775.

Captain Edward Mott and Captain Noah Phelps set out
from Hartford on Saturday, the twenty-ninth of April,
in order to take possession of the fortress of Ticonderoga,
and the dependencies thereunto belonging. They took with
them from Connecticut sixteen men unarmed, and marched
privately through the country till they came to Pitlsfield,
without discovering their design to any person, till they fell
in company with Colonel Ethan Allen, Colonel Easton,
and John Brown, Esq., who engaged to join themselves to
said Mott and Phelps, and to raise men sufficient to take
the place by surprise if possible. Accordingly the men
were raised, and proceeded as directed by said Mott and
Phelps, Colonel Ethan Allen commanding the soldiery.
On Tuesday they surprised and took the fortress, making
prisoners the commandant and his party. On Wednesday
morning they possessed themselves of Crown Point ; taking
possession of the ordnance stores, consisting of upwards of
two hundred pieces of cannon, three mortars, sundry how-
itzers, and fifty swivels, &ic.

639

CORRESPONDENCE, PROCEEDINGS, fcc, MAY, 17:5.

640

Ethan Allen, fearful of an attempt from Governour Car-
Icton to retake the place, lias written to the Committee xjf
Albany for a supply of five hundred men and provisions ;
the Committee, however, not perceiving themselves com-
petent to determine on a matter of so much importance,
requested the advice of our General Committee, who re-
ferred them, and immediately despatched an express, to the
Congress now sitting in Philadelphia.

ETHAN ALLEN TO THE MERCHANTS OF MONTREAL.

.St. John's, May 18, 1775.

Gentlemen: 1 have the pleasure to acquaint you that
Lakes George and Champlain, with the fortresses, artillery,
&c, particularly the armed sloop of George the Third,
with all water carriages of these Lakes, are now in posses-
— sion of the Colonies. I expect the English Merchants, as
well as all virtuous disposed gentlemen, will be in the inte-
rest of the Colonies. The advanced guard of the Army
is now at St. John's, and desire immediately to have a per-
sonal intercourse with you. Your immediate assistance as
to provisions, ammunition, and spirituous liquors, is wanted
and forthwith expected, not as a donation, for I am em-
powered by the Colonies to purchase the same; and I desire
you would forthwith, and without further notice, prepare
for the use of the Army those articles to the amount of
five hundred Pounds, and deliver the same to me at St.
John's, or at least a part of it almost instantaneously, as
"The soldiers press on faster than provisions. I need not
inform you that my directions from the Colonies are not to
contend with, or any way injure or molest the Canadians
or Indians; but, on the other hand, treat them with the
greatest friendship and kindness. You will be pleased to
communicate the same to them, and some of you immedi-
ately visit me at this place, while others are active in de-
— livering the provisions.

I write in haste, and am, gentlemen, your obedient hum-
ble servant, Ethan Allen.
*~ To Mr. James Morrison and the Merchants that are friendly

to the cause of liberty in Montreal.

EXTRACT OF A LETTER FROM THE CAMP AT CAMBRIDGE,
DATED MAY 18, 1775.

We hear from Halifax that the people have at last shewn
they have spirit. It seems the agents for procuring forage
for the expected regiment of Dragoons had taken, without
the consent of the owner, and were shipping for Boston, a
great quantity of hay, on which the people set fire to, and
wholly destroyed it. And when that work was finished,
they attempted the like by the King's Magazines, which
they several times fired, but they were extinguished by the
people from the ships-of-war lying there, who made a brisk
fire on the people, and prevented them from effecting their
design. The fugitives from Boston are gone for Halifax,

but the people say no d d Tories shall be allowed to

breathe in their air, so that these devils can't find a resting
place there, which was the only place on the Continent
that they ever dared to hope they might stay in.

COLONEL STARK TO THE NEW-HAMPSHIRE CONGRESS.

Medford, May 18, 1775.

Gentlemen : About the twenty-ninth of April last, a
Committee sent from Provincial Congress of the Province
of New-Hampshire to the Provincial Congress of the Prov-
ince of Massachusetts-Bay, having discretionary instruc-
tions from said Congress, advised to raise a Regiment from
the Province of New-Harnpskire as soon as possible, under
the Constitution and establishment of the Massachusetts-
Bay, but to be deemed as part of the quota of men of
the Province of New- Hampshire, and that New-Hampshire
Congress would establish said measures. In consequence
of which, a number of officers of the Province of Nciv-
Hampshire convened, and made choice of their field-offi-
cers for said Regiment, who have raised the same, fifty-four
of whom are now present at Medford, exclusive of drum-
mers and fifers, and the remainder are hourly expected ;
and as a great number of those already here (who expect-
ed, when they enlisted, to draw arms from the Provincial
slocks) are destitute of the same, and cannot be furnished.

(as no arms are to be procured here at present,) must
inevitably return from whence they came, unless they are
supplied from some quarter speedily. I humbly pray that
you would maturely consider our defenceless situation, and
adopt some measure or measures whereby they may be
equipped. In confidence of your immediate compliance
with the above request, I am, in the Country's common
cause, your most obedient and devoted humble servant,

John Stark.

N. B. The gentleman who presents this to the Conven-
tion, can give you particular information as to our present
situation.

ADDRESS OF THE NEW-HAMPSHIRE CONGRESS TO GOVERN-
OUR WENTWORTH.

May it please your Excellency:

Governour Gage, in a letter to the Earl of Dartmouth,
dated 27th January, 1775, informed the British Ministry
that your Excellency had applied to him for two Regiments
of the British Troops, to be stationed at Portsmouth ; and
as it evidently appears, at this alarming period, that the
British Troops are ministerial tools, sent to America to
endeavour to enforce unconstitutional and tyrannical Acts
of the British Parliament, by fire, sword, and famine, and
as we humbly conceive it is your Excellency's duty, in
your political capacity, to guard and defend the lives, liberty,
and properties of the inhabitants of this Province, your
Excellency's sending for Troops to destroy the lives, liber-
ties, and properties you have solemnly engaged to defend
and protect, conveys to our minds such shocking ideas, that
we shall rejoice to find what is represented to be fact in
said letter, to be farce. But as we have such information,
duty to ourselves and constituents, obliges us humbly to
desire your Excellency to give us such evidence as will
enable us to know and inform our constituents what to
expect.

We are, &cc, Sic.

CAROLINE COUNTY (VIRGINIA) COMMITTEE.

At a Committee held for the County of Caroline, on
Friday, the nineteenth of May, 1775, the Committee
having taken into their most serious consideration his Ex-
cellency Lord Dunmore's Letter, dated the twenty-fourth
of December last, to Lord Dartmouth, His Majesty's Sec-
retary of State for the American Department ; also his
Lordship's Proclamation, and a Letter wrote by a certain
Captain Montague to the Honourable Thomas Nelson, Esq.,
(which were severally published in the Gazettes,) think it
their indispensable duty to remonstrate against the illiberal
aspersions which are most injuriously thrown out against
our constituents, as part of the community, and also to de-
clare our abhorrence of the brutal disposition that dictated
the menaces contained in the said Montague's Letter :
Therefore, Resolved,

1st. That his Lordship's Letter, if founded on the infor-
mation of others, fully evinces to us their unfriendly and
inimical disposition towards this Country, and his wishes to
perpetuate the unhappy dispute between Great Britain
and America, which we so fervently and ardently desire to
terminate on constitutional principles. We cannot forbear
adverting to that part of his Lordship's Letter, where he
asserts that armed Companies in some Counties are formed,
and sworn to enforce the order of the Committees directly
in open defiance of the legal prerogative of the Crown.
Such proceedings as these, we are apprehensive, never had
existence, or we should have had as eaily intelligence of
them as his Lordship.

2d. That that part of his Lordship's Proclamation where-
in he charges some persons with being disaffected to His
Majesty's Government, and endeavouring to effect a change
in it, under the appearance of defending their liberties, con-
tains an accusation totally groundless, and cannot be meetly
applied to the people of this Colony, who ever were, and
in future wish to be, distinguished for their loyalty to our
most gracious Sovereign, whom we sincerely pray may ever
enjoy his reign in peace, happiness, and glory. We think
ourselves extremely ill-treated by his Lordship, while we
are aiming to preserve that liberty and freedom which the
God of nature originally gave, and our ancestors have

64i

CORRESPONDENCE, PROCEEDINGS, &c, MAY, 1775.

642

lianded down to us, to be charged with disaffection to His
Majesty's Government. On a review of his Lordship's
conduct, we cannot avoid suspecting his design in removing
the gunpowder (more especially in the night) was rather
to deprive this Colony of it, than to be used for suppress-
ing any insurrection.

3d. That Captain Montague's threat of firing upon the
defenceless Town of York, bespeaks such a base and dia-
bolical disposition, that he ought to be contemned and de-
spised by all men of spirit and humanity. We therefore
recommend it to our constituents, not to show the said
Montague any mark of civility or respect whatsoever.

Samuel Hawes, Jr., Cleric.

TO THE INHABITANTS OF VIRGINIA.

Williamsburgh, May 19, 1775.

There are few attempts in life so unlikely to give uni-
versal satisfaction as those that are brought before the all-
scrutinizing eye of the publick; for although a man be so
fortunate as to please some, he may, on the other hand,
offend many. And there are few men, possessed of a tole-
rable knowledge of men and manners, but what must be,
on the least attentive consideration, assured of the truth of
this thesis. How careful, then, ought that man to be, who
makes his appearance in the publick papers, in knowing
that he is embarked, if not in an unoffending, yet a righteous
cause. Thus equipped, he may fearlessly pass the rock of
criticism, if not with eclat, with that, at least, which affords
more permanent felicity — the heartfelt commendation of
a good conscience. These animadversions lead me to a
few strictures on our truly great and worthy Governour's
Proclamation of the sixth of this instant. 1 confess, in the
first place, that it is with the most pungent sorrow I find
that justice, and the great cause of America's inherent
rights, make it indispensably necessary, in these unhappy
days, that nothing should pass unnoticed that is not dignified
by the sacred signature of truth, and which, through the
malversation of bad and designing men, might have the
baneful tendency of extending the unnatural breach between
Great Britain and her Colonies, and bring on the additional
displeasure of our gracious King. Of such a tendency
appears our Governour's Proclamation of the above date,
particularly aimed at Patrick Henry, Jun., Esquire, his
Country's and America's unalterable and unappalled great
advocate and friend. As most of the good people of this
Country may have seen this unparalleled Proclamation, I
shall not lake up much of their or your time, in a very
minute recital of it ; suffice it to say, that the whole must
appear a Ministerial trick, calculated to please some, to
delude others, and, what is of more serious and alarming
consequence, (similar to one of his other laudable efforts,*)
to prejudice and detract from the great American cause, by
effecting a disunion amongst the friends of it, as the only
possible means of obtaining success to Ministerial machina-
tions. The degenerate tools of lawless power may applaud
his Lordship's ingenuity, but the honest, virtuous, and
upright sons of constitutional liberty will reprobate the
want of that candour and nobleness of spirit, which can
alone give effulgence to high birth or exalted station, and
deprived of which, either the one or the other must,
in the reflection of the virtuous mind, (to use the great
Mr. Pope's words,) appear but as so much " leather or
prunella." There are, however, representations of the
conduct of the said Mr. Henry, and his deluded followers,
(as his Lordship is pleased, fashionably, to call them,) so
exceedingly inconsonant to my idea of the case, that his
Lordship must pardon me if I should, for the sake of jus-
tice, attempt to set the matter in a different and less partial
point of view.' His Lordship observes, " That the said
Mr. Henry, with a number of deluded followers, had taken
up arms, chosen their officers, and, styling themselves an
Independent Company, had marched out of their County,
encamped, and put themselves into a posture of war, and
had written letters, &tc, to the great terrour of all His
Majesty's faithful subjects, and in open defiance of law and
Government ; and have committed other acts of violence,
particularly in extorting from his Receiver-General the sum

* See his Lordship's Letter to the Earl of Dartmouth, dated the
twenty.fourth of December last.

of three hundred and thirty Pounds, under pretence of re-
placing the powder he (the Governour) thought proper to
order from the Magazine ;" whence, adds his Lordship, " it
undeniably appears that there is no longer the least security
for the life or property of any man." Would not strangers
to this manoeuvre of Mr. Henry be induced readily to
believe, from this Proclamation of his Lordship, that his
conduct in the affair of the powder was directly consistent
with the greatest rectitude ; and, on the contrary, that Mr.
Henry's behaviour was, in the extreme, impolitical, dis-
orderly, and base ? But let such first recur to the many
poor subterfuges that Ministerial vicegerents have lately
been drove to, and then they will not be greatly astonished
at the contents of his Lordship's Proclamation.

The powder which was removed from the Magazine in
the City of Williamsburgh, under cover of the night, (a
time most friendly and best adapted to dark and insidious
designs,) appears clearly to have been, if not the perma-
nent and exclusive property of this Colony, at least so
intended for its direct emolument and protection, by an Act
of Assembly, passed in the first year of King George the
First's reign, entitled, " An Act for erecting a Magazine ;"
that his Lordship's removal of it on board one of His Ma-
jesty's armed vessels, just at that alarming and critical time,
was, in my view, illegal, and a competent declaration of
his hostile and inimical designs against this unhappy Coun-
try, and sufficient, of itself, to have roused the good people
of it from that lethargick state of security into which the
great appearance of his Lordship's friendship had lulled
them ; and farther, to have placed themselves in such a
posture of defence as might enable them to guard against
the impending blow which this step of his Lordship plainly
told them was but too fast approaching. The inhabitants
of Williamsburgh, justly alarmed and incensed at such
behaviour from his Lordship, like men determined to sup-
port their constitutional rights and property in opposition
to every act of violence under Heaven against them, take
up arms, and are about to demand restitution of the pow-
der, when they are dissuaded from such a step by gentlemen
in whom great confidence is placed, who persuade tbem to
lay down their arms, and return to their respective homes ;
assuring them at the same time, that every pacifick endeavour
should be made in order to have the powder replaced in
the Magazine. They then convened a common hall, and
in a very respectful manner, address his Lordship on the
impropriety of his conduct in the affair of the powder ;
entreating him at the same time to return it again to the
Magazine, and thereby restore peace and order to the in-
habitants of the Town. To which said address his Lord-
ship was pleased to return a verbal answer, (being, it is
said, peculiarly happy in expressing his sentiments with
ease and propriety that way,) whereby it most evidently
appears that his Lordship expressly avows the impropriety
of his conduct in the removal of the powder, in promising,
upon his " word and honour," that in case there should be
an insurrection of the slaves, which he acknowledges there
was cause to apprehend, he would then return the powder,
on being allowed a half hour to do it in. The inconsis-
tency of such an answer is so plain, that it needs no com-
ment. In short, several gentlemen, who were dissatisfied
with such an evasive, contradictory, and affrontive answer,
wait on his Lordship in person, and entreat him, as the
representative of His Majesty here, as the Chief Magis-
trate, and, above all, as a friend to peace and order, to
return the powder, and thereby quiet the fears and appre-
hensions of the people, which he now positively refuses to
do ; assigning, as a reason for his strange and unwarrantable
conduct, that the people of Williamsburgh had been in

arms.

But attend to his subsequent conduct, and see if it ac-
cords with those pompous professions of regard for peace,
order, and good government, and the happiness of the
people (who are so unhappy as to be under his rule) which
he would induce a belief are the grand objects of his care
and study. Conscious that the people would no longer
acquiesce in a behaviour in one moment so disingenuous
and evasive, in another so disrespectful and irritating, he
determined to fling off the mask, and bid defiance to their
utmost efforts to regain the powder ; and therefore imme-
diately began to arm his menial servants, who were, by

Fourth Series. — Vol. ii.

41

643

CORRESPONDENCE, PROCEEDINGS, &c, MAY, 1775.

644

their lord and master's example, taught to look upon and
treat the good people of this Country with the greatest
indignity and contempt. Add to all this, that we had just
heard that many of our worthy and noble friends, the guar-
dians and zealous supporters of our liberty, were on the
black list of American victims, destined to sacrifice, in order
to appease those sanguinary wretches in power; and that,
farther, we had received the long-feared and melancholy
news, that the sword was now drawn by the King's Troops
against our brethren the Bostonians, who were then bleed-
ing in the common cause. Thus unhappily circumstanced
on all sides, what does Mr. Henry to deserve those inglo-
rious epithets, which are, though obscurely, yet most cer-
tainly aimed principally at him, not only by his Lordship's
candid and liberal Address to the Council, previous to the
issuing of a former Proclamation, but by those also in
exalted station, who, it was hoped from their affinity to our
wrongs, and having received their birth here, would have
entertained sentiments of a more generous and liberal kind,
of those who are the produce of the same Country, and
in loyalty and attachment to their gracious Sovereign, not
an iota, I trust, inferiour to them. I repeat, what does Mr.
Henry (matters being thus situated) to deserve the censure
of his countrymen ? Why, like the vigilant guardian and
protector of their constitutional rights and liberties, he was
resolved, with proper assistance, by the force of arms, to
effect a restitution of the powder, or an equivalent thereto,
which had been, by low fraud and artifice, removed out of
the Country's possession, and which he now was sorry to
find pacifick measures were not likely to accomplish. This
gentleman, therefore, by the advice and determination of
the Hanover Committee, held at Newcastle the second in-
stant, accompanied by many of his respectable and worthy
countrymen, set out from Newcastle on their way to the
capital, and were joined on their way down by several
spirited gentlemen from different Counties. With what
prudence and penetration Mr. Henry took his measures, and
what they eventually produced, may be fully known by a
reference to a publication of his conduct at large, in the
proceedings of the Committee of Hanover County on the
ninth instant; and, as the matter stands represented there,
and which is incontrovertibly consistent with the real truth
of the case, how then does his Lordship get his intelligence
that this movement of Mr. Henry was to the great " ter-
rourof all His Majesty's faithful subjects?" From whence
does he learn that Mr. Henry had committed "acts of vio-
lence?" Have any of those terrified " faithful subjects,"
on whom those acts of violence were committed, preferred
their complaints before his Lordship, in order to obtain re-
dress? Or are these words inserted only to heighten or
aggravate this supposed guilty conduct of Mr. Henry, in
the opinion of those who cannot be, in all probability, from
the remoteness of their situation, furnished with an impar-
tial and fair state of the case ? The guilty, perhaps, might
fear and tremble at an apprehension of the just vengeance
of the incensed people, roused and provoked as they were
by reiterated acts of oppression and tyranny ; but whether
the innoceut Americans (of which, I thank Heaven, there
is by far the greater majority) were terrified and frightened
by this attempt of Mr. Henry to regain their property, I
leave the candid part of mankind to determine, from the
publication of the proceedings of the many Committees
which have sat on this occasion, as may be seen in the
papers subsequent to this step taken by Mr. Henry.

Thus much I have thought proper to lay before the
publick, in vindication of the conduct of a gentleman who
is now absent, and, as the advocate and steady friend of his
Country, contending, I doubt not, for all that is precious
and worth the preserving, to those who are by nature free,
and who, by their laws and Constitution, have an indubi-
table right to remain so, in opposition to every power on
earth to make them otherwise.

Had his Lordship, at this perplexed and unhappy junc-
ture of affairs, steadily pursued that noble line of right
which prudence and his duty had marked out to him ; had
he evinced from his actions, in accordance to his profes-
sions, that the happiness of the people which he ruled was
his great object and care; had he, like a good, virtuous,
and great man, stepped in as a mediator in this unnatural
struggle between Great Britain and her Colonies, and at-
tempted to close, rather than by disingenuous misrepresent-

ations, to widen the breach, I trust he would still have
continued to receive that grateful tribute of applause which
the people here have, on some late occasions, so cordially
offered up to him. But from his late conduct, as held up
to the world, what confidence can they place in him who has
declared himself to be (and his actions manifest he is not in
jest) their opposed and dangerous enemy? Bectus.

TO THE INHABITANTS OF THE MANOR OF CORTLANDT,
NEW-YOKK.

Manor of Cortlandt, May 19, 1775.

Gentlemen : The dangerous innovations and infringe*
ments attempted by certain mercenary Ministerial tools and
infamous traitors (in this Manor) to their Country, who
assume to themselves the name of loyalists, on the liberties
of their fellow-subjects, have greatly alarmed the impartial
friends of liberty herein. A fool, says an author, has great
need of title ; it teaches men to call him Count and Duke,
and to forget his proper name of fool.

In a day when American pulse beats high for liberty ;
when it is the subject of almost every publick paper, as
well as topick of discourse, it might justly have been ex-
pected that no American would be so hardy as to violate
the rights of his fellow-subjects ; and if any such monster
should appear in this land of liberty, that there would not
be wanting advocates for so glorious and important a cause,
as to expose those of its members who are trampling on
the sacred rights of the people.

I have waited with great impatience, expecting that
some able hand would have undertaken the benevolent task
to warn you to beware of the conduct of some of the basest
villains that ever disgraced any society, and draw the atten-
tion of the inhabitants to its danger; but finding that
although now some months are elapsed since the com-
mencement of the measures of these traitors, 8tc, yet none
has appeared to sound the friendly alarm to the very indo-
lent inhabitants, 1 have attempted what I so ardently
wished might have been done by some more able hand.
While we are straining every nerve to baffle foreign at-
tempts to enslave us, surely it must be very criminal in the
descendants of Britons, who ought to love life and liberty
alike, to be so assiduous in exerting themselves to enslave
their fellow-subjects.

It may not be improper to inform you, gentlemen, of the
springs and motives which induce these principal movers
to forget their duty to God, their fellow-countrymen, and
their posterity.

They, anxious to secure to themselves and their poster-
ity power and authority, and to engross some offices or
pensions from or under the Crown, have made a sacrifice
of all publick virtue on the altar of self-interest. This
desperate spirit it was that induced these traitors or merce-
nary hirelings to exert their influence to bring about the
detestable measures proposed by a certain paper handed
about here last winter, entitled " The Loyalists' Test."
But, happily for this Manor, this very dangerous scheme
was disconcerted by some lovers of loyalty and liberty.
For the men who would make such inroads on the liberties
of the people, as they were aiming at, to gratify their thirst
for power, and give Administration a high idea of their
influence in this Manor, would, from the same principle,
exert every nerve of influence to carry any ministerial man-
date into execution, at the expense of the liberties of their
fellow-countrymen .

Can any judicious American son of liberty behold these
traitors of their Country without the utmost abhorrence, by
whose influence the more illiterate, and those who are unac-
quainted with the principles of the present dispute, are so
besotted as to resign their liberties into the hands of the most
ambitious and designing fellows, who are aiming to make a
merit with the Ministry by enslaving their fellow-country-
men, and to aggrandise themselves and their posterity ?
Surely he cannot. If Charles the First deserved the axe,
and James the Second the loss of his Kingdom, for chang-
ing the Constitution, and thereby trampling on the rights
of their subjects, I leave you, my countrymen, to judge
what punishment would be adequate to the crimes of these
loyalists and their tools, who are aiming at the same by
a sacrifice of all publick virtue, and the liberty of their
Country. An Inhabitant.

645

CORRESPONDENCE, PROCEEDINGS, &c, MAY, 1775.

646

COMMITTEE OF SAFETY TO THE COMMITTEE OF SUPPLIES.

Cambridge, May 19, 1775.

Gentlemen : Mr. Benedict Arnold having been author-
ized and empowered to raise and furnish a number of men,
not exceeding four hundred, to proceed against and reduce
the garrison at Ticonderoga, with its dependencies, has,
we find, in consequence of said commission, been supplied
with fifteen oxen, by Mr. Thomas Wells Dickason; and
this Committee being informed by said Dickason} that
the Committee of Supplies wanted a certificate of said
older and appointment, that they may with propriety dis-
charge the order of said Arnold on the Committee of
Safety, have handed this, presuming it may be sufficient
to satisfy the Committee of Supplies of his (said Arnold's)
appointment. We would observe that the above-mention-
ed cattle are at Newport. You will give such directions
respecting them as to you in your wisdom shall seem
meet. We are, &tc.

BENEDICT ARNOLD TO THE MASSACHUSETTS COMMITTEE
OF SAFETY.

Crown Point, May 19, 1775.

Gentlemen: My last was of the 14th instant, by Mr.
Romans, via New-Haven. I then acquainted you of the
occasion of delay in not carrying your orders into execu-
tion. The afternoon of the same day, being joined by
Captains Brown and Oswald, with fifty men, enlisted on
the road, they having taken possession of a small schooner
at Skenesborough, we immediately proceeded on our way
for St. John's, and at eight o'clock, P. M., the 17th instant,
arrived within thirty miles of St. John's; the weather prov-
ing calm, manned out two small batteaus with thirty-five
men, and the next morning, at six o'clock, arrived at St.
John's, surprised and took a sergeant and his party of
twelve men, the King's sloop, of about seventy tons, with
two brass six-pounders and seven men, without any loss
on either side. The Captain was gone to Montreal, and
hourly expected with a large detachment for Ticonderoga,
a number of guns and carriages for the sloop, which was
just fixed for sailing ; add to this, there was a Captain of
forty men at Chamblee, twelve miles distant from St.
John's, who was expected there every minute with his
party ; so that it seemed to be a mere interposition of Provi-
dence that we arrived at so fortunate an hour. We took
such stores on board as were valuable, and the wind prov-
ing favourable, in two hours after we arrived, weighed an-
chor for this place, with the sloop and four of the King's
batteaus, having destroyed five others ; so that there is not
left a single batteau for the King's Troops, Canadians, or
Indians, to cross the Lake in, if they have any such inten-
tion.

1 must, in justice to Colonel Allen, observe that he left
Crown Point soon after me for St. John's, with one hun-
dred and fifty men, and on my return met him five leagues
this side, and supplied him with provisions, his men being
in a starving condition. He informed me of his intention
of proceeding on to St. John's with eighty or one hundred
men, and keeping possession there. It appeared to me a
wild, impracticable scheme, and provided it could be car-
ried into execution, of no consequence, so long as we are
masters of the Lake, and of that I make no doubt, as I am
determined to arm the sloop and schooner immediately.

I wrote you, gentlemen, in my former letters, that I
should be extremely glad to be superseded in my command
here, as I find it next to impossible to repair the old fort
at Ticonderoga, and am not qualified to direct in building
a new one. I am really of opinion it will be necessary to
employ one thousand or fifteen hundred men here this sum-
mer, in which I have the pleasure of being joined in senti-
ment by Mr. Romans, who is esteemed an able engineer.
I am making all possible provision for wheel-carriages to
carry such cannon, &c. to Albany as can be spared here,
and will be serviceable to our army at Cambridge.

I must refer you for particulars to the bearer, Captain
Jonathan Brown, who has been very active and service-
able, and is a prudent, good officer ; and I beg leave to
observe I have had intimations given me, that some persons
had determined to apply to you and the Provincial Con-
fess, to injure me in your esteem, by misrepresenting mat-
ters of fact. I know of no other motive they can have,

only my refusing them commissions, for the very simple
reason that I did not think them qualified. However, gen-
tlemen, I have the satisfaction of imagining I am employed
by gentlemen of so much candour, that my conduct will
not be condemned until I have the opportunity of being
heard. I am, with the greatest respect, gentlemen, your
most devoted and very humble servant,

Benedict Arnold.
To the Committee of Safety, Cambridge.

P. S. Enclosed is a memorandum of such cannon, &.c.
as I intend sending to Cambridge, also of such as are here.
By a return from Montreal to General Gage, I find there
are seven hundred and seventeen men in Canada, of the
Seventh and Twenty-Sixth Regiments, including seventy
which we have taken prisoners.

A List of Cannon, $-c,
2 iron 24-pounders,
1 do. do. useless,

1 brass do. serviceable,

4 iron 18-pounders, not examined,
but appear good,
14 iron 12-pounders, do.

4 French do. useless,
8 12 and 18 do. not examined,

but appear good,
7 long 9-pouuders, double forti-
fied, good,
12 long 9-pounders, seryiceable,

2 do. do. mounted,

taken at Crown Point.

33 6 and 9. pounders, useless,

7 9 and 12 do. do.

2 long 6 do. good,

2 short 6 do. bad,

3 do. do. not examined,
3 do. do. useless,

1 English 13-inch mortar, ") ^ ^

1 French do. 1*3

2 do. 8-inch do. f - g
2 8-inch howitzers. J <" >

111

A List of Cannon, cj-c, taken at Ticonderoga.
19 swivels, good,
2 wall pieces, good,
2 French 12-pounders, bad,
1 13-inch mortar, and bed, good,
1 7 do. do. good,

1 7-inch howitzer, good.

86

28 iron truck wheels,
10 carriages, fit for use.
N. B. I shall send to Cambridge the 24-pounders, 12 and 6-pound-
ers, howitzers, &c, as directed by Colonel Gridley. Four brass how-
itzers in the edge of the Lake, and covered with water, cannot be come
at at present. BENEDICT ARNOLD.

Return of Ordnance Stores found at Ticonderoga.

3 18-pounders
2 French do.

good,
bad,

2 12-pounders
6 12 do.

, good,
double fortified,

good,
2 12 do.

useless,

12 9 do.
5 9 do.

good,
bad,

18 6 do.

bad,

9 4 do.

1 6 do.

good,
good,

Species of Stores.

Mortars, iron, and iron beds,

Iron ordnance, dismounted,

Brass do.
Petards, brass,
Portfires, - -

do.

Quality.

Ladles with staves, copper,

Ladles without staves,
Ladles for swivels, -
Lintstocks with corks,
Do. without, .
Slow match, -

r

Shot,

Round, - - -

Fixed to wooden bolts.
Quilted grape, -

Ball, ....

Quilted grape,
Do.

Powder, whole barrels,
Shells,

Fusees, fixed,

Flints, - -

Leaden apronB,

Crow-bar, --------

Some other articles of little note.
Engineers' stores, none.

13-inch

6J do.

18 lbs.

13

12

9

6

4

4
Patareroes
3 lbs.

18 lbs.
12

6

6

4

Quantity.

18 lbs.
12

9

6

4
12

8 9-in. how.
Lead, tons
Iron, lbs.

6 lbs.
Swivel
Damaged
Royal
Grenades
13-inch
8 do.
Royal
Cohorns
Sorts
Sorts

4

1

12

14

6

23

29

3

2

2

42

2

1

2

12

2

9

8

100
550
240

■ 1,430

165

68

9

3,700

100

20

28

6

906

166

168

128

240

30,000

27

1

By me,
Ticonderoga, May 13, 1775.

B. ROMANS, Engineer,

647

NEW-HAMPSHIRE PROVINCIAL CONGRESS, MAY, 1773.

648

GENERAL WARD TO THE MASSACHUSETTS CONGRESS.

May 19, 1775.

Sir : It appears to me absolutely necessary that the Re-
giments be immediately settled ; the officers commission-
ed ; the soldiers numbered and paid, agreeable to what has
been proposed by the Congress — if we would save our
Country. I am, Sir, your most obedient humble servant,

A. Ward.
J. Warren, Esq., President of the Congress at Watertown.

JAMES RUSSELL TO JOSEPH WARREN.

Charlcstown, May 10, 1775.

Sir : I yesterday, by Major Fuller, Mr. Whittemore,
and Mr. Bliss, received a Resolve of the Congress ap-
pointing them a Committee to call on me to know whether
1 have any of the publick moneys in my hands. In an-
swer thereto, I would desire you, Sir, to inform the Provin-
cial Congress, that the light money for several years past
since the increase of light-houses, and more especially
since the obstructions of the last year upon our trade, has
not been sufficient to defray the expense of said houses ;
and I have consequently been under a necessity to apply
the money arising from the Impost for that purpose. Ever
since I received the favours of my Country, in being cho-
sen to the Impost Office, I have done all in my power in
the discharge of my duty therein to their satisfaction. The
means of procuring oil, by the unhappy and increasing
troubles of our Country, appearing very uncertain and pre-
carious, I have endeavoured to purchase as large a stock
as I could : and as the Impost Bill expired the first of
March last, the publick moneys I have in my hands will
not be more than sufficient to enable me to pay for the oil
contracted for to complete for the present year.

Your most humble servant, James Russell.

Joseph Warren, Esq., President Provincial Congress.

they would be pleased to give notice of the time and place
of hearing, not only to the people of New-Hampshire, and
others that are in the Army at Cambridge, or elsewhere,
but also that the publick in general, and the inhabitants of
the Town of Concord, in the Province of New-Hampshire,
and the adjacent Towns in particular, be desired to attend
or send in depositions of what they know relative to the
affair. And your petitioner, as in duty bound, shall ever
pray, &tc, Benj. Thompson.

Woburn, May 19, 1775.

ABIJAH brown to the committee OF SAFETY.

Watertown, May 19, 1775.

Gentlemen : Agreeable to your order I have removed
the cannon under my care at Waltham, to the Town of
Watertown, and have delivered them to the Committee of
Correspondence for the same Town ; and shall have my
company in readiness to march to Cambridge to-morrow
morning. I am, gentlemen, with much respect, your most
obedient and most humble servant, Abu ah Brown.
To the Hon. the Committee of Safety, at Cambridge.

PETITION OF BENJAMIN THOMPSON.

To the Honourable the Committee of Safety for the Col-
ony of Massachusetts-Bay:

The Petition o/Benjamin Thompson, Esq., of Concord,
in the Province of New-Hampshire, humbly sheweth :

That on Monday, the 15th instant, your petitioner was
taken up and confined in this Town, upon suspicion of
being inimical to the liberties of this Country ; and that in
consequence of his being taken up, the Committee of Cor-
respondence for the Town, after having given publick
notice of the time and place of hearing, and desired all
persons that could give evidence to attend, proceeded to an
examination of the affair, agreeable to the recommendation
of the Honourable Provincial Congress. But as no per-
son appeared to lay any thing of consequence to his charge ;
and as the Committee were not pleased either to acquit or
condemn him ; and as his own personal safety, as well as
the quiet and satisfaction of the publick, but more espe-
cially of the people of New-Hampshire, depends on his
having an acquittance after the most publick, thorough,
and impartial examination, your petitioner humbly prays
that the Committee of Safety would be pleased to take the
matter into consideration, and examine the same ; and that

new-hampshire committee of safety.

May 19, 1775. — A Committee of Safety was appointed
by the Congress, consisting of the following persons, viz:
Honourable Matthew Thornton, Doctor Josiah Bartktt,
Esquire, Captain William Whipple, Nathaniel Folsom,
Esquire, and Ebenezer Thompson, Esquire.

May 23, 1775. — The Committee of Safety was empow-
ered by vote of the Congress to recommend persons they
think proper for Chaplains, Surgeons, and Surgeons' Mates,
and also to procure proper forms for enlisting Soldiers.

May 24, 1775. — Israel Morey and Samuel Ashley,
Esquires, Captain Josiah Moult on, and Reverend Samuel
Webster, were added to the Committee of Safety ; and said
Committee was empowered to issue orders for enlisting
men sufficient for one Regiment, in the same manner as is
practised in the Massachusetts-Bay, and receive returns of
men enlisted as is done there.

Accordingly, the same day the Committee gave orders
to Winborn Adams of Durham, Winthrop Rowe of Ken-
sington, Henry Elkins of Hampton, Samuel Gilman of
Newmarket, Philip Tilton of Kingston, Benjamin Tit-
comb of Dover, Jonathan Wentworth of Somersworth,
Jeremiah Clough of Canterbury, James Norris of Epping,
and Zaccheus Clough of Poplin, to enlist each a Compa-
ny; which orders, &c, were of the forms following:

" In Committee of Safety, i

"Exeter, . . . 1775. 4

"To

" Sir : You are hereby empowered immediately to en-
list a Company, to consist of sixty-two able-bodied and
effective men, well accoutred, including Sergeants, as Sol-
diers in the New-Hampshire service, for the preservation
of American liberty, and cause them to pass muster as soon
as possible. ...... Chairman."

"Exeter, . . . 1775.

" Whereas you have this day received orders for enlist-
ing sixty-two Soldiers well accoutred, including Sergeants,
for the New-Hampshire service, for the preservation of the
liberties of America, you are hereby acquainted that the
commission of a Captain in said service shall be made out
for you as soon as you have completed the said enlistment,
and you will also be allowed to nominate two Subalterns
to serve under you, who will receive commissions accord-
ingly, if the Committee shall approve of them.

"By order of the Committee of Safety:

" Chairman."

The Enlistment.

" We, the subscribers, do hereby severally solemnly
engage and enlist ourselves as Soldiers in the New-Hamp-
shire service for the preservation of the liberties of Ame-
rica, from the day of our enlistment to the last day of
December next, unless the service should admit of a dis-
charge of a part or the whole sooner, which shall be at the
discretion of the Committee of Safety, and we hereby
promise to submit ourselves to all the orders and regula-
tions of the Army, and faithfully to observe and obey all
such orders as we shall receive from time to time from our
Officers.

" . . . . 1775."

Towns, Parishes, and places respectively annexed to the
several names being returned to sit as Members in this
in_ the Province of New-Hampshire, met at £W,~ the Co,lvelltion> took tlleir seats accordingly, viz :
17th day of May, 1775, the following persons from the Portsmouth. — Captain William Whipple, Captain Wil-

NEW.HAMPSH1RE PROVINCIAL CONGRESS.
At a Convention of Deputies from the several Towns

619

NEW-HAMPSHIRE PROVINCIAL CONGRESS, MAY, 1775.

650

Ham Pearn, Samuel Cutts, Esquire, Samuel Sherburne,
Captain Pierce Long.
N ewington. — Richard Downing, Esquire, Samuel Faban.
Greenland. — Clement March, Esquire, Major William

Weeks, Captain Nathan Johnson.
Hampton. — Captain Josiah Moullon, Josiah Moulton, 3d.
Exeter. — General Nathaniel Folsom, Colonel Nicholas

Oilman, Colonel Enoch Poor.
Stratham. — Deacon Stephen Boardman, Samuel Lane,

Esquire.
Southampton. — Benjamin Brown.
Rye. — Samuel Knowles, Nathan Goss.

Newcastle. —

Newmarket. — Captain Jeremiah Folsom, Mr. Edward

Parsons.
Chester. — Stephen Morse, Captain Robert Wilson.
Hampton-Falls. — Colonel Meshech Weare, Reverend

Pain Wingate.
Seabrook. — Henry Robie.
Northampton. — Doctor Levi Dearborn, David Masten,

Captain Abraham Drake.
Kensington. — Captain Ezekiel Worthen.
Epping. — Rev. Josiah Stearns, David Lawrence, Esq.
Brentwood. — Samuel Dudley, Esquire, William Morrill,

Esquire.
Poplin. — Stephen Sleeper.

Kingston and Hawk. — Josiah Bartlett, Esquire.
East Kingston. — Nathaniel Batchelder, Esquire, Major

Jacob Gale.
Sandown. — Jethro Sanborn, Esquire.
Pembroke. — David Gillman.
Deerfield. — Reverend Timothy Upham.
Bow. — Benjamin Noyes.
Hampstead. — Jonathan Carlton.
Plaistow. — Major Joseph Welsh.
Atkinson. — John Webster, Daniel Poor.
Newtown. — Joseph Bartlett, Esquire.
New-Salem. — Caleb Dusten.
Pelham. — James Gibson.
Nottingham. — Major Joseph Cilley, Lieutenant Thomas

Bartlett.
Epsom. — John McClary, Esquire.
Raymond. — John Dudley, Esquire.
Candia. — Samuel Moore, Esquire.
Londonderry. — Mattheiv Thornton, Esquire, Mr. James

McGregor.
Concord. — Timothy Walker, Junior.
Canterbury. — Reverend Abel Forster, Captain Jeremiah

Clough.
Chichester. — Captain John Cram.

Dunbarton. — Colonel W

Loudon. — Nathan Batchelder, Esquire.

Northwood. — Sherburne Blake.

Meredith. — Ebenezer Smith, Esquire.

Durham. — George Frost, Esquire, Ebenezer Thompson,

Esquire.
Madbury. — John Wingate.
Lee. — Joseph Sias, Esquire, Smith Emerson.
Sanbornton. — Daniel Sanborn, Esquire.
Moultonborough. — Adam Brown.
Gilmanton. — Antepas Oilman.
Rochester. — Deacon James Knowles, Colonel John

McDuffee.
Wakefield. — Nathaniel Balsh.

Dover. — Capt. Shadrach Hodgdon, Capt. Stephen Evans.
Somersworth. — Icfiabod Rowlings, Esquire, Captain

James Garvin.
Litchfield. — Captain John Parker.
Henniker. — Timothy Gibson.
Cockbourn. — Captain Abijah Learned.
Dunstable. — Jonathan Lovewell, Esquire, Joseph Ayers,

Noah Lovewell.
Merrimack. — Jacob McGaw.
Boscawen. — Captain Henry Gerrish.
Goffstown. — Moses Reille,
North-Ipswich. — Richard Stephen Farrar.
Amherst. — Paul Dudley Sergeant, Moses Parsons.
Bedford. — James Martin.
Temple. — Reverend Samuel Webster.
Dunbarton. — Captain Caleb Page.
Hopkinton. — Reverend Elijah Fletcher.

Barrington. — Lieutenant Samuel Hayes.

Windham. — Lieutenant John Dinsmore.

Wilton. — Jonathan Martin, Jacob Abbot.

Mason. — Amos Daken.

Weare. — Samuel Page.

Nottingham West. — Captain Abraham Page.

Lyndsborough. — Ep. Putnam.

New-Boston. — Thomas Wilson.

Hollis. — Colonel John Hale, Deacon Enoch Noyes,

Samuel Hobart, Esquire.
Peterborough. — William Smith.
Plymouth, Campton, Rumney, and Newchester. —

Abel Webster.
Lyme. — Jonathan Child.
Cockermouth. — Samuel Haselton.
Orford. — Israel Morey, Esquire, Nathaniel Rogers.
Hanover. — John Wheelock.
Lebanon. — Nehemiah Eastabrook.
Thornton. — Matthew Thornton, Esquire.
Plainfield. — Francis Smith.
Westmoreland. — Joseph Willbore.
Fitzwilliam. — Reverend Benjamin Bridgeham.
Swansey. — Samuel Hill.
Dublin. — Joseph Greenwood.
Keene and Surry. — Timothy Ellis.
Claremont. — Oliver Ashley.
Cornish. — Samuel Chase, Esquire.
Packerfield. — Dr. Nathaniel Breed, Eleazer Twitchell.
Walpole. — Thomas Sparhawk.
Winchester. — Samuel Ashley, Esquire.
Salisbury. — Matthew Pettingill.
Ch arlestown. — William Haywood.
Haverhill. — Captain Ephraim Weston.
Piermont. — Captain Richard Young.
Landaff. — Captain Nathaniel Hovey.

. Wednesday, May 17, 1775.

The Members being called over and seated, proceeded
as follows :

Voted, That the Honourable Matthew Thornton, Esq.,
be President.

Voted, That Ebenezer Thompson, Esq., be Secretary.

Voted, That as Ebenezer Thompson, Esquire, the elect-
ed Secretary, is not present, Samuel Cutts, Esquire, be
Secretary pro tempore.

At the desire of the Convention, the Reverend Mr.
Stearns made a prayer.

Voted, That those Members who did not produce cer-
tificates be allowed to sit in Convention until the adjourn-
ment ; and if they do not then produce them, to be ex-
cluded.

Voted, That the Reverend Mr. Stearns, Colonel Fol-
som, Mr. President, George Frost, Esquire, Mr. Wheelock,
Mr. Sparhawk, and the Reverend Mr. Webster, be a Com-
mittee to draw up Rules to be observed by the Members
of this Convention while sitting, and present them as soon
as may be.

Voted, That the aforesaid Committee, together with
Mr. Whipple and Mr. Cutts, be a Committee to report
what they think necessary to be done about establishing a
Post-Office.

Adjourned till to-morrow, eight o'clock in the morning.

Thursday, May 18, 1775, A. M.

Met according to adjournment.

Voted, That the following Rules be adopted and ob-
served by the Members of this Convention while sitting :

" 1st. That no person speak without asking leave of,
"and addressing himself to the President.

" 2. That no Member speak while another is speaking.

" 3. That no Member should speak a second time upon
a point, if another person who has not spoke before, should
desire to speak.

" 4. That no Member make a new motion upon a point,
until that which is under consideration is determined.

" 5. That there be silence among the other Members
while any one is speaking.

" 6. That no Member absent himself more than half an
hour without permission from the President.

" 7. That on any matter of importance under considera-

651

NEW-HAMPSHIRE PROVINCIAL CONGRESS, MAY, 1775.

652

tion of this body, on the request of the Members of ten
Towns, the determination thereof shall be put off to the
next day of sitting.

"8. That no Member speak without standing up.''

A Letter being received from Hwtking Wenticorth,
Esquire, Chairman of a Committee at Portsmouth, the
same was read and ordered to lay.

Voted, That a Post-Office shall be established at Ports-
mouth, and that Samuel Penhallow, Esquire, shall be Post-
master, and that he, together with the Members from
Portsmouth, shall be a Committee to agree with a Post
Rider or Riders.

Voted, That John Hale, Esquire, be empowered in be-
half of this Convention to proceed immediately to the City
of Albany, or any other place he thinks proper, for the
purpose of procuring Fire-Arms and Gunpowder for the
use of this Province ; and as the scarcity of money and
suddenness of the occasion hinders this Convention from
supplying Colonel Hale with cash for the said purpose, if
Colonel Hale can obtain credit for said articles, this Con-
vention pledges their honour and faith to pay said money
at the time agreed by Colonel Hale and the vender or
venders of the same.

Voted, That a number of men be raised in this Prov-
ince to join in the common cause of defending our just
rights and liberties.

Voted, That Colonel Bartlett, Captain Whipple, Col-
onel Folsom, Mr. President, Reverend Mr. Webster, Rev-
erend Mr. Stearns, Colonel Nicholas Gilman, Captain
Page, Moses Parsons, Mr. Wheelock, Mr. Rollings, Rev-
erend Mr. Farrar, Mr. Morey, Mr. Gregor, and Colonel
Ashley, be a Committee to prepare and bring into this
Convention a plan of ways and means for furnishing
Troops, &c.

Voted, That the Reverend Mr. Wingate, Reverend
Mr. Fletcher, and Mr. Samuel Sherburn, be a Committee
to prepare a draught to be sent to the several Towns in
this Province, respecting disputes about Tories.
Adjourned till eight o'clock to-morrow morning.

Friday, May 19, 1775.

Met according to adjournment.

The President being necessarily absent,

Voted, That Samuel Cutts, Esquire, be President pro
tempore.

A Petition of Major Andrew Mc Clary, praying redress
of sundry grievances ; read and ordered to lay for consider-
ation.

A Letter from Colonel John Stark, requesting a supply
of Fire-Arms for the Soldiers under his command ; read
and ordered to be put under the consideration of the Com-
mittee of Ways and Means.

1. Voted unanimously, That the good and wholesome
Laws of this Province be faithfully supported, and that all
persons assist the Justices thereof in the due execution of
their office.

2. That in these times of general distress, it is recom-
mended to the inhabitants of this Province, that they en-
courage all Religious Worship, and that they, by all means,
discountenance all manner of vice, and especially the pro-
fanation of the Sabbath, which is and has been a growing
evil, and that all officers exert themselves for the above
purpose.

3. That it is enjoined on all Planters and Farmers that
they pay the strictest attention to Agriculture, that, with
the blessings of kind Heaven, the sore calamities of famine
may not be added to our present distress ; and that to en-
courage the Woollen Manufactory, they kill no Lambs
before the first of August next j likewise that they raise as
much Flax as possible.

4. That as the Linen and Woollen goods will be much
in demand, it is recommended that those who have abilities
employ all persons who are acquainted with those manu-
factures ; likewise, that extravagance and dissipation of
every kind be discountenanced.

5. That encouragement be given for the making of Salt-
petre, by granting a Bounty of One Shilling per pound for
the first hundred weight ; and that the said Bounty be con-
tinued as long as this Congress shall think proper.

6. That whereas many persons, who, through inadver-

tency, wilful malice, or immoderate heat, have thrown out
many opprobrious expressions respecting the several Con-
gresses, and the methods of security they have thought
proper to adopt, and thereby have made themselves obnox-
ious to the inhabitants of this Province, it is therefore re-
commended that the Committees of the several Towns
have a watchful eye over all such persons ; and they shall
be the proper persons only to take cognizance thereof, and
that their result be final ; and that proper complaint being
made to either of the Committee, they make the most
speedy and critical inquiry thereof, in order to prevent riots
and tnobs, and that they discountenance the same.
Adjourned to three o'clock, P. M.

Met according to adjournment,

The Convention being informed that a Committee from
the Convention of the Massachusetts-Bay were waiting to
deliver a message to this Convention,

Voted, That Mr. President, Colonel Folsom, Colonel
Bartlett, Captain Whipple, Mr. Cutts, Mr. Stearns, and
Captain McDuffee, be a Committee to wait on those
gentlemen, and introduce them into the Convention, and
further converse with them relative to their mission.

The Honourable Joseph Gerrish, Esquire, and Colonel
Ebenezer Sawyer, a Committee from the Massachusetts
Congress, were introduced and delivered a Letter to the
President from the President of the Congress, together
with a copy of an application by them made to the Conti-
nental Congress, both of which are on file.

Voted, That the Selectmen of the respective Towns
where the persons enlisted under Colonel Stark, who are
destitute of Fire-Arms, belong, be desired to procure the
same and forward them to the persons so destitute, and if
such Towns cannot furnish them, Colonel Stark, or any of
the Officers under him, are desired to purchase the same,
and upon a just account thereof being rendered to this
Convention, it shall be allowed and paid. And Colonel
Stark is desired, as soon as circumstances will permit, to
transmit to this Convention what shall be done in conse-
quence of this Vote ; and every Soldier supplied as afore-
said is required to give a receipt for such Fire-Ann that
he will, at his dismission from the service, return the same,
or have the value thereof deducted out of his wages.

Voted, That Mr. Enoch Poor. Captain Ezekiel
Worthen, and Colonel Nicholas Gilman, be a Com-
mittee to fix immediately on Carriages fit for the field
eight Cannon, out of such as they think most serviceable
among those that may be found for that purpose.

Adjourned till to-morrow morning, eight o'clock.

Saturday, May 20, 1775, A. M.

Met according to adjournment, and came to the follow-
ing Resolutions, viz :

Whereas by the late Acts of the British Parliament,
and conduct of the Ministers in pursuance thereof, it ap-
pears very evident that a plan is laid and now pursuing to
subjugate this and the other American Colonies to the
most abject slavery, and the late hostilities committed by
the British Troops in our sister Colony of the Massachu-
setts-Bay, leaves us no doubt in determining that no other
way is left us to preserve our most darling rights and ines-
timable privileges but by immediately defending them by
arms. Reduced, therefore, by this most terrible necessi-
ty, this Convention, after the most solemn deliberations
thereon, have,

1. Resolved, That it is necessary to raise immediately
two thousand effective Men in this Province, including
Officers and those of this Province already in the service,
and that the time from their enlistment continue to the
last day of December, unless the Committee of Safety
should judge it proper that a part or the whole be dis-
charged sooner.

2. That every Member pledge his honour and estate,
in the name of his constituents, to pay their proportion of
maintaining and paying the Officers and Soldiers of the
above number while in their service.

3. That application be made immediately to the Conti-
nental Congress for their advice and assistance respecting
means and ways to put the above plan into execution.

4. That the establishment of Officers and Soldiers shall
be the same as in the Massachusetts-Bay.

653

NEW-HAMPSHIRE PROVINCIAL CONGRESS, MAY, 1775.

654

5. That the Selectmen of the several Towns and Dis-
tricts within this Colony be desired to furnish the Soldiers,
who shall enlist from their respective Towns and Districts,
with good and sufficient Blankets, and render their accounts
to the Committee of Supplies.

6. That if it should appear that the above number of
men is not our full proportion with the other Governments,
that this Convention will be ready to make a proper addi-
tion for that purpose.

Voted, That the thanks of this Convention be given to
the persons who took away and secured for the use of this
Government, a quantity of Gunpowder, from the Castle
called William and Mary, in this Province.

Voted, That Colonel Thornton, Colonel Bartlett, Cap-
tain Whipple, Colonel Folsom, and Ebcnezer Thompson,
be a Committee of Safety, and that their Instructions be
deferred until next week.

Voted, That Colonel Nicholas Gilman, Samuel Cults,
Esquire, Ichabod Rawlings, Esquire, Mr. Timothy IValker,
Junior, Doctor John Giddinge, Mr. Thomas Sparhawk,
and Colonel John Hale, be a Committee of Supplies, and
that the giving them necessary Instructions be deferred
until next week.

Voted, That Colonel Nicholas Gilman and Mr. Poor
be a Committee to sell any quantity of Gunpowder, not
exceeding four barrels, to such frontier Towns in this
Province as they shall think most need it.

Voted, That the Reverend Mr. Stearns, the Reverend
Mr. Webster, and Mr. Josiah Moulton the third, be a Com-
mittee to make a draught of a Letter in answer to one re-
ceived from the Congress of the Massachusetts-Bay , as
also a Letter to the Continental Congress, and lay the same
before this Convention as soon as may be.

Adjourned to Monday next, three o'clock in the after-
noon.

Monday, May 22, 1775, P. M.
Met according to adjournment.
The President being absent,

Voted, That Colonel Folsom be President pro tempore.
The Secretary being absent,

Voted, That Thomas Sparhawk be Secretary pro tem-
pore.

Voted, That John Ackerman be brought before this
body for examination.

Voted, That the examination of John Ackerman, Ben-
jamin Hart, and John Pierce, be referred to the Commit-
tees of Portsmouth, Greenland, and Rye, and that if they
find any thing worthy of notice, they make report to this
body as soon as may be.

Voted, That John Ackerman be committed to Jail, and
there remain until to-morrow morninn;.

Voted, That Major Samuel Hobart and Mr. Enoch
Poor be Muster Masters for the present, and that they
repair to Cambridge, as soon as may be, and the places
thereabouts in the Province of the Massachusetts-Bay,
and regularly muster all the men enlisted in the several
Companies in the Regiment commanded by Colonel John
Stark, and that no men be accepted but those who are
able-bodied effective men ; also to inquire if any other
men are enlisted by any other person or persons, and
muster them, if any there be, and receive such only as
are good effective men, and inform the Officers by whom
such men are enlisted, that they immediately repair to the
Committee of Safety at Exeter, there to represent the
matter and receive instructions.

Voted, That it be left discretionary with the Muster
Masters, how long men that have already enlisted into the
Province service unarmed, shall continue there ; and that
those gentlemen are desired to make inquiry where Pro-
visions, Chirurgeon's Instruments, and Medicine can be
procured, and upon what terms ; also that they be desired
to obtain the Rules of the several Committees of Safety
and Supplies; and further to inform the Committee or Con-
gress that there is a Post Office established at Exeter, and
to know if their Post Rider, who comes to Haverhill, will
proceed to the Post Office here ; and report to the Con-
vention as soon as may be.

Voted, That the two thousand men this body have
agreed to raise be equally divided into three Regiments.

Voted, That Colonel Fenton be desired personally to
appear and inform this body concerning the subject-matter
of his Letter to the people of the County of Grafton.

Adjourned till to-morrow eight o'clock, A. M.

Tuesday, May 23, 1775, A. M.

Voted, That the Secretary prepare a List of the Dele-
gates to keep a proper account of their daily attendance.

Voted, That there be a Post Office in Exeter.

Voted, That the Reverend Mr. Farrar, Mr. Sparhawk,
and Mr. Edicard Parsons, be added to the Committee for
preparing a Letter to the Continental Congress.

Adjourned to three o'clock, P. 31.

Met according to adjournment.

Voted, That Colonel Nathaniel Folsom be appointed
to take the general command of the men that may be
raised, or are already raised in this Government, for this
season.

Voted, That Josiah Moulton, 3d, be added to the Com-
mittee of Supplies.

Voted, That there be procured some suitable person to
officiate as Chaplain to each Regiment in the service.

Voted, That there be a Surgeon and Surgeon's Mate
procured for each Regiment.

Voted, That it be left to the Committee of Safety to
recommend persons they think proper for Chaplains, Sur-
geons, and Surgeon's Mates.

Voted, That the Committee of Safety procure proper
forms for enlisting Soldiers, &ic.

Voted, That Colonel Nicholas Gilman be Treasurer and
Receiver-General of this Colony, and that he, with two
sufficient sureties, give bond to the Honourable Mattheic
Thornton, Esq., President of this Congress, or his succes-
sor in that office, for the faithful discharge of his trust.

Voted, That there be raised, levied, and paid by the
inhabitants of this Province, in the same proportion as was
last used in levying and proportioning the Taxes of this
Province, the sum of Three Thousand Pounds, lawful
money, and paid unto Nicholas Gilman, Esq., of Exeter,
as Treasurer appointed by this Convention, by the first day
of November next.

Voted, That all Officers and Soldiers employed in the
service shall be taxed as other persons are, according to
their ability.

Adjourned till to-morrow, nine o'clock in the morning.

Wednesday, May 24, 1775.

Met according to adjournment.

Voted, That the Committee of Safety recommend three
persons for Field-Officers in the Regiment now to be
raised.

Voted, That it be recommended to the several Towns
in this Government to encourage Manufactures in general,
and that of Fire- Arms in particular.

Voted, That there be added to the Committee of Safety
one from the County of Hillsborough, one from Cheshire,
and one from Grafton.

Voted, That Mr. Enoch Poor be the first in command
in the Second Regiment to be raised, under Colonel Fol-
som; Captain John McDuffee to be secondhand Captain
Joseph Cilley the third.

Voted, That Mr. Cutis, Mr. Wheelock, and Mr. Walk-
er, be a Committee to examine into the state of our late
Treasurer, Doctor Giddingc's Account.

Voted, That Israel Morey, Esq., be one of the Com-
mittee of Safety.

Voted, That Captain Josiah Moulton be one of the
Committee of Safety.

Voted, That Mr. James McGregory be added to the
Committee of Supplies.

Voted, That the same forms for enlisting men in the
several parts, to be used here as in the Massachusetts-Bay,
mutatis mutandis.

Voted, That the Committee of Safety be empowered to
issue orders for enlisting men sufficient for one Regiment,
in the same manner as is practised in the Massachusetts-
Bay ; and receive returns of men enlisted, in the same
manner as there.

Adjourned till to-morrow, eight o'clock in the morning.

655

NEW-HAMPSHIRE PROVINCIAL CONGRESS, MAY, 1775.

656

Thursday, May 25, 1775.

Met according to adjournment.

Voted, That Messrs. Samuel Sherburn, Pierce Long,
John Dudley, Esq., be a Committee to bring in a draught
empowering the Committee of Safety and Committee of
Supplies to act in the recess of this Congress; and also to
recommend to this body some suitable person for a Com-
missary.

I'oted, That the Rev. Mr. Ferrer and the Rev. Mr.
Stearns be added to the above-mentioned Committee.

Voted, That Moses Emerson, Esq., be Commissary for
the Army.

Voted, That the Congress sit by adjournment from day
to day, till the return of the Committee from Cambridge.

Friday, May 26, 1775.

Met according to adjournment.

Voted, The following Instructions to the Committee of
Safety : That the Committee of Safety be empowered and
directed, in the recess of the Congress, to take under their
consideration all matters in which the welfare of the Prov-
ince in the security of their rights shall be concerned, ex-
cept the appointment of the Field-Officers, and take the
utmost care that the publick sustain no damage ; and that
they act in the following manner :

1st. That they see to it that whatever plans have been
determined upon by the Congress to be immediately carried
into execution, which have not been entrusted to the man-
agement of any particular persons or Committee, shall be
executed by such persons, and in such ways, as the Com-
mittee shall judge best.

2d. If any exigence not provided for by the Congress re-
quires immediate attention — such as marching Troops raised
to repel an invasion in any part, or directing the motions of
the Militia within the Province, or without the Province,
with their own consent for the same purpose ; or make use
of any special advantage for securing Military Stores, or
securing any important Post, or preventing our enemies
from securing advantageous Posts, or from obtaining Mili-
tary Stores or Provisions — immediately they shall take the
most prudent and effectual method to accomplish the above
and similar purposes.

3d. That they be and hereby are empowered and direct-
ed to apply to the Committee of Supplies for the necessary
Stores, Provisions, &c, for the effectual carrying the afore-
said Instructions into execution.

Voted, That a copy of Colonel Fenton's Letters which
have been read in Congress ; also, a copy of a Letter from
the Congress to Colonel Fenton, be sent to the Towns of
Portsmouth, Greenland , and Rye.

Adjourned to three o'clock, P. M.

Met according to adjournment.

Voted, That a Company, not exceeding sixty men, in
the Northwesterly parts of this Colony, be forthwith en-
listed, to be ready to act as occasion may require ; that at
present a small party of them, not exceeding ten men at a
time, be employed to guard the passes and gain intelligence ;
and that those only who are in actual service shall be un-
der pay ; and that the enlisting and further directing them
be referred to the Committee of Safety.

Voted, That the Committee of Supplies be empowered
and directed to furnish the Commissary with whatever Mil-
itary Stores and Provisions the Committee of Safety shall
think necessary. And that they and each of them be em-
powered to take up such Stores, &tc, on the faith of this
Colony, on the best terms, and from such person or per-
sons as they can procure them ; and also that they, or the
major part of them, be empowered to borrow, on the faith
of this Colony, any sum not exceeding Ten Thousand
Pounds, lawful money, as the Committee find necessary,
to answer the directions from the Committee of Safety.
And this Convention, for themselves and constituents, plight
their faith and estates to said Committee of Supplies, as
their bondmen to all intents and purposes, for the payment
of whatever sum they hire or borrow in consequence of
this Vote.

Adjourned to Wednesday, ten o'clock, A. M.

Wednesday, May 31, 1775.

Met according to adjournment.

Voted, That the division of the two thousand men raised

and to be raised in this Colony, into Regiments and Com-
panies, be referred to the Committee of Safety, for them
to report their opinion to the Congress as soon as may be.
Adjourned to three o'clock, P. M.

Met according to adjournment.

The Committee of Safety reported as their opinion, that
the two thousand men be divided into three Regiments, and
each Regiment into ten Companies, as equally as can con-
veniently be done.

Voted, That the foregoing Report be received, and that
the Regiments and Companies be divided accordingly.

Voted, That the enlisting men in this Colony by per-
sons belonging to any other, is a wrong measure, and ought
to be discouraged.

A Petition being read, signed by twelve persons, praying
that James Read, Esq., might not be commissioned in the
Army, as he had, heretofore, shown himself inimical to the
liberty of his Country ; and no person appearing to prove
or enforce the Petition, voted that it be dismissed.

Voted, That the thanks of this Congress be given to the
party who this day have removed sundry Cannon from the
sea-coast in this Colony, to the Town of Portsmouth, and
to Doctor Hall Jackson in particular, for assisting in the
matter and bringing us the intelligence.

Voted, That Major Hobart be Muster-Master to muster
Captain Adams's Company.

Adjourned till to-morrow, eight o'clock.

Thursday, June 1, 1775.

Voted, That two Companies, as soon as they can be
properly mustered and equipped, be sent to guard the sea-
coast for the present.

Voted, That the two Companies first equipped and mus-
tered, be sent to guard the sea-coast.

Voted, That there be three Field-Officers appointed for
each Regiment, exclusive of the General Officers.

The complaint of Joseph Reille against Major Hobart,
read and considered.

Voted, That the Petition or complaint be dismissed.

Voted, That Major Hobart be empowered to administer
the same oath to Soldiers in the common service, as has
been taken in the Massachusetts service.

Voted, That James Reed, Esq., be appointed Colonel
of a Regiment.

Voted, That Israel Gilman, Esq., be appointed Lieu-
tenant-Colonel of Colonel Reed's Regiment.

Voted, That Nathan Hale be Major of the aforesaid
Regiment.

Whereas in the course of the present disputes it may
be necessary to import on the risk of the Colony a quan-
tity of Military Stores :

Resolved, That the Committee of Supplies be, and they
hereby are empowered and directed to import or cause to
be imported from any place whatever, such and so many
Stores aforesaid, not exceeding the value of three thousand
Pounds, lawful money, and the same to risk at their discre-
tion, with or without making insurance on the vessels or
cargoes which may be so employed, sent out, or imported.

Voted, That the Committee of Safety be empowered to
give out Enlisting Orders to ten persons to enlist each a
company of sixty-two Soldiers, including non-commis-
sioned officers, to make a Regiment, to be under the com-
mand of Colonel James Reed.

Resolved, That the Committee of Portsmouth, together
with Captain Ezekiel Worthen, be desired to provide a
number of Fascines ; and also to procure proper Carriages
for those Guns removed from Jerry's Point; and also such
other materials as they may think necessary for erecting a
Battery to hinder the passage of Ships up to the Town ;
and also that they endeavour, if it can be done with secrecy
and safety, to get what Shot may be at the Fort at New-
castle ; and that all those matters be done with the utmost
secrecy the matter will allow of, and then determine upon
some suitable place for a Battery, where the materials, when
completed, may suddenly be removed to.

Whereas his Excellency the Governour of this Colony,
in calling a General Assembly, to meet at Portsmouth in
February last, required three new Towns that had never
sent Members before to elect persons to represent them in
said Assembly, and as said Assembly are to sit by adjourn-

657

NEW-HAMPSHIRE PROVINCIAL CONGRESS, MAY, 1775.

658

inent on the 12th instant, this Congress are of opinion that
the Govemour's assuming the right of sending to such new
Towns, as he thinks fit without concurrence of the other
branches of the Legislature, is unconstitutional and subver-
sive of the rights and privileges of the good people of this
Colony, and the establishing such a precedent may leave
room for some designing Governour to occasion a very
partial representation of the people by sending to small
Towns, and omitting large ones with many other evils:

Therefore do resolve further, That it is the opinion of
Congress, that the persons called and elected as aforesaid,
ought not to be allowed a seat in the House of Represent-
atives of this Colony.

Adjourned till to-morrow morning, eight o'clock.

Friday, June 2, 1775.

Met according to adjournment.

Voted, That the Committee of Supplies be desired to
apply, and obtain the quantity and quality of the Powder
brought from the Fort William and Mary, also take it into
their possession, and lay the state of it before the Com-
mittee of Safety.

Adjourned till three o'clock, P. M.

Met according to adjournment, three o'clock, P. M.
An Address to the inhabitants of this Colony, voted
and is on file.

Saturday, June 3, 1775.

Met according to adjournment.

Voted, An Address to the Congress of New-York re-
specting the Fort at Ticonderoga, and our sending Men
upon the Frontiers, &tc.

Voted, An Address to the Congress at Watertown re-
specting the same.

Voted, An Address to the Colony of Connecticut re-
specting the same.

Voted, An Address to the Continental Congress re-
specting the Fort at Ticonderoga, &tc.

Voted, An Address to our Delegates, John Sullivan
and John Langdon, Esquires, respecting the same.

Copies of all which on file.

Voted, That John Stark be the Colonel of the First
Regiment.

Voted, That Isaac Wyman be Lieutenant-Colonel of
the same Regiment.

Voted, That Andrew Mc Clary be Major of the Third
Regiment.

Voted, That Thursday fortnight be recommended as a
day of Fasting and Prayer in this Colony.

Voted, That General Folsom, as Brigadier-General and
first commander of the New-Hampshire Forces, under
the Commander-in-Chief of the New-England Army, be
allowed the same wages as a Brigadier-General shall receive
in the Massachusetts service, both as General and comman-
der of a Regiment, while in actual service, and that he have
no particular Regiment of his own, but equally command
all the New-Hampshire Forces ; and that ten Companies
of the Regiment, of sixty -two men each, now at Medford,
in the Province of the Massachusetts-Bay, be the first or
oldest Regiment.

Whereas, at the particular desire of the people on the
western frontiers of this Colony, a vote was passed by
this Congress the 26th instant, to raise a Company of sixty
men, under such directions and restrictions as is therein
expressed; and at their special request it is now thought
necessary to alter that establishment, and augment the
number:

Therefore, voted, That a Company of sixty men be
raised of the inhabitants of said frontiers, to be commis-
sioned by the Committee of Safety ; and that they, and two
Companies out of the two thousand men raised in this
Colony, be stationed as soon as the Committee of Sup-
plies procure Stores for them, by the Committee of Safety
on said frontiers, and remain until further orders.

Monday, June 5, 1775.

Met according to adjournment, three o'clock, P. M.
But few Members present, adjourned till to-morrow, at
eight o'clock.

Met according to adjournment.
Voted, That all Officers and

Tuesday, June 6, 1775.

Fourth Series. — Vol. ii.

Soldiers of the New-
Hampshire Army, now raising for the defence and security
of the rights and liberties of this and our sister Colonies in
America, shall each and every of them (excepting the
General Officers,) repeat and take the following oath, viz:

" I, A B, swear I will truly and faithfully serve in the
New-Hampshire Troops to which I belong, for the defence
and security of the estates, lives, and liberties of the good
people of this and the sister Colonies of America, in op-
position to ministerial tyranny by which they are or may
be oppressed, and to all other enemies and opposers what-
soever ; that I will adhere to the Rules and Regulations of
said Army, observe and obey the General and other offi-
cers set over me, and disclose and make known to said
officers all traitorous conspiracies, attempts, and designs
whatsoever, which I shall know to be made against said
Army, or any of the English American Colonies. So help
me God."

Voted, To raise one Artillery Company, to be at Ports-
mouth.

Voted, That the Committee of Safety look out and
commission the best men they can find, as officers of the
said Artillery Company.

Adjourned to three o'clock, P. M.

Met according to adjournment.

Whereas a vote passed on the third instant, respecting
General Folsom's wages, and that of ranking Colonel
Stark's Regiment: Voted, That that part of said vote,
which respects General Folsom's wages, be reconsidered ;
and instead thereof, voted that General Folsom, as chief
commander of the New-Hampshire Forces, under the
Commander-in-Chief of the New-England Forces, be
allowed the wages of a Colonel of a Regiment, and such
other allowances as this Convention may think proper here-
after.

Voted, That Captain Elkins's Company be for the pre-
sent placed upon the sea-coast.

Voted, That the Proclamation for a Fast on the 22d
instant be sent to the press, and from thence sent to all
the Towns in the Colony.

Voted, That the Artillery Company consist of sixty-
five men, including officers, to be at Portsmouth.

Voted, That the Committee of Safety appoint Muster
Masters.

Adjourned till eight o'clock to-morrow.

Wednesday, June 7, 1775.

Met according to adjournment.

Voted, That every transaction which this Convention
thinks expedient should be kept as a profound secret, we
do hereby solemnly promise and oblige ourselves strictly
to conform to, and not communicate upon any pretence
whatsoever, unless by leave of this Congress.

Adjourned till eight o'clock to-morrow.

Thursday, June 8, 1775.

Met according to adjournment.

Voted, An Address to the inhabitants of this Colony be
sent to the press, respecting lenity by creditors to their
debtors, &c.

Colonel Hale returned, got no Powder or Small-Arms,
but gives us great encouragement that we shall have some
soon from the Southern Colonies ; and that Powder is made
at Philadelphia in such quantities, that two hundred barrels
is made in a day ; and that Provisions are plenty and cheap
in Connecticut, and that quantities are now transporting to
Cambridge.

Adjourned till three o'clock.

Met according to adjournment.

Voted, That Captain Page and Colonel Stark, from
Dunbarton, have a hearing before this Convention the
second day of sitting, after adjournment, for any time longer
than from Saturday to Monday.

Voted, That the sum of Fifty Pounds be paid by the
Treasurer of this Colony to any inhabitant of said Colony
who shall manufacture the largest quantity of Saltpetre,
not less than one hundred weight, within one year from this

42

659

CORRESPONDENCE, PROCEEDINGS, &c, iMAY, 1775.

C60

date : also the sum of six pence per pound for every pound
above ten pound (excepting that person who receives the
bounty of fifty Pounds) manufactured by any person within
said Colony, in the said year, and that the Committee of
Supplies be directed and empowered to examine any quan-
tity offered, and to draw on the Treasurer agreeable to this
Resolve, or some other Committee who shall be particu-
larly empowered for this purpose.

Whereas a number of the Towns of this Colony have
not yet paid into the hands of George Jaffrey, Esq., their
Province Tax :

Resolved, That the Constables and Collectors of said
Towns be, and hereby are directed to pay said money into
ihe hands of Colonel Nicholas Gilman, Receiver-General
for (he Colony of New- Hampshire, who is authorized to
receive and give receipts for the same.

Voted, That Deacon Samuel Books be Postmaster for
this Town.

Adjourned till eight o'clock to-morrow.

Friday, June 9, 1775.

Voted, That Ebenczcr Thompson, Esquire, and Colonel
Nicholas Gilman, be a Committee to procure the plates,
and see the Notes struck off. Adjourned to three o'clock.

Met according to adjournment.

Resolved, That the Receiver-General of this Colony,
appointed by this Congress, be hereby empowered to give
his notes of hand on the faith of the Colony, payable to
the possessor, for the sum of Ten Thousand and Fifty
Pounds, of the present currency, or lawful money, to be
paid into the Treasury aforesaid by a Tax on the polls and
estates of the inhabitants of this Colony, in the following
manner, viz : four thousand Pounds to be paid by the
twentieth December, which will be in the year of our Lord

1776, and six per cent, interest from the date ; and the
sum of three thousand Pounds the twentieth December,

1777, and three thousand and fifty Pounds the twentieth
December, 1778. And the said notes shall be struck by
copper-plate, to be engraved under the direction of this
Congress for the several sums following, to complete said
sum of Ten Thousand and Fifty Pounds, viz : Six thou-
sand Pounds in Forty Shilling notes ; three thousand Pounds
in Twenty Shilling notes; nine hundred Pounds in Six
Shilling notes, and one hundred and fifty Pounds in One
Shilling notes ; and the form of said notes to be in the fol-
lowing words, with such other devices as may be ordered
by the Congress, viz :

" Colony of New-Hampshire, )
No. . June 20, 1775. i

"The possessor of this note shall be entitled to receive,
out of the Treasury of this Colony, the sum of . . . . .
Shillings, lawful money, on the twentieth of December,
177—, with interest at the rate of six per cent, per annum ;
and this note shall be received in all payments at the Trea-
sury at any time after the date hereof for the principal sum,

without interest, if so paid before the said twentieth day of
December, A. D. 177-.

S. T. N. G.

And the Treasurer or Committee who shall number the
same, shall fill the blank left for time of payment in a num-
ber of bills sufficient to complete four thousand Pounds,
with the figure 6, and number to complete three thousand
Pounds with the figure 7, and the remainder with the figure 8.
And the said Notes, when brought unto said Receiver-Gen-
eral and paid by him, shall, after the said time fixed for
payment, be burnt to ashes in the presence of the Congress
of this Colony.

3,000 40s. is £6,000

3,000 20s. is 3,000

3,000 6s. is 900

3,000 Is. is 150

£10,050 lawful money.
Adjourned to eight o'clock to-morrow.

Saturday, Juno 10, 1775.

Voted, That all Bills of Credit on the faith of the Colo-
ny of the Massachusetts-Bay, have a free currency in this
Colony of New-Hampshire.

Voted, That the President of the Congress be empowered
to sign any papers in the recess of the Congress, which it
is necessary should be signed by him as President, and in
particular the commissions to all officers appointed for the
Army belonging to this Colony.

Voted, That one month's wages be paid to all the offi-
cers and soldiers in the pay of this Colony as soon as may
be, and that prior thereto the Paymaster administer to
each of the said officers and soldiers the oath appointed by
this Congress.

Voted, That George Frost, Esq., be one of the Com-
mittee with Ebenezer Thompson, Esq., instead of Colonel
Nicholas Gilman, to procure the plate, see the money struck
off, signed, and delivered to the Receiver-General.

This body having taken into consideration the great stag-
nation of Trade, and the difficulty to which their constituents
are reduced by the unhappy dispute with Great Britain,
as to the turning either their real or personal estates into
cash, think it necessary to recommend for the present all
possible lenity and forbearance in creditors towards those
who may stand indebted to them, but that they avoid mul-
tiplying suits at law, and especially the carrying them to
such length as the levying execution on real estates, which
must, in this case, in our apprehension, be sold much below
their real value. We most particularly recommend this
lenity and forbearance in reference to such who have or
may engage as officers and soldiers in the defence of the
invaded rights and liberties of America ; and we further
recommend to debtors all possible care and endeavour to
discharge to the utmost of their power all just demands
upon them.

Adjourned to the twenty-seventh instant.

ANNE ARUNDEL COUNTT (MARYLAND) COMMITTEE.

At a meeting of the Committee of Anne Arundel Coun-
ty, at Pigg Point, on Saturday, the twentieth of May, at
the request of Mr. David Weems, Jr. ; Joseph Galloway ,
Esq., in the Chair. Present: Mr. Thomas Tillard, TAo-
mas Deale, Marmaduke Wyvill, Thomas Tongue, Robert
Brown, William Tillard, Edward Tillard, Samuel Har-
rison, and John Stewart*

Mr. Weems desired to know if he might procure some
articles that he had occasion for, of any of the masters
of ships, particularly an anchor and cable of Captain David
Carcaud, of the Ship Industry.

Resolved, That it is the opinion of this Committee, that
Mr. Weems, nor any other person, can, consistent with the
letter and spirit of the Association of the Continental Con-
gress, purchase or receive the same.

Resolved, That Captain Carcaud cannot sell, or in any
manner dispose of, or land the aforesaid anchor and cable,
or any rigging, sails, or other goods he may have on board

his ship, to any person within the Province of Maryland,
or any part of America.

Ordered, That this be printed in the Maryland Gazette.

J» Stewart, Clerk.

Nowcastle, Delaware, May 20, 1775.

This day, agreeable to appointment, the Captains and
Subaltern Officers of Newcastle County met at Christiana
Bridge to choose Commanders, when the following gentle-
men were chosen, viz :

For the' Upper Division.

James McKinley, Esq., Colonel ;

James Lfltimer, Esq., Lieutenant Colonel ;

Thomas Duff, Esq., Major.

For the Lower Division.

Thomas Gooch, Esq., Colonel j
Samud Patterson, Lieutenant Colonel ;
Gunning Bedford, Major.

661

CORRESPONDENCE, PROCEEDINGS, fee, MAY, 1775.

662

TO THE DELEGATES OF NEW-JERSEY IN THE CONTINENTAL
CONGRESS.

[Read before Congress May 27, 1775.]

House of Assembly, New Jersey, }
May 20, 1775. \

His Excellency having laid before the House a copy of
the Resolution of the honourable House of Commons of
Great Britain, of the twentieth of February, 1775, con-
taining a plan formed for the accommodation of the unhappy
differences between our Parent State and the Colonies,
which plan, under the present circumstances, this House
could not comply with and adopt; and yet this House, being
desirous of making use of all proper means to effect a re-
conciliation, do recommend it to their Delegates to lay the
same plan before the Continental Congress for their consi-
deration.

A true copy from the Journals :

Richard Smith, Clerk of Assembly .

COLONEL GUT JOHNSON TO THE MAGISTRATES AND OTHERS
OF PALATINE, ETC., TRYON COUNTY, N. Y.

Guy Park, May 20, 1775.

Gentlemen : I have lately had repeated accounts that
a body of New-Englanders or others were to come to
seize and carry away my person, and attack our family,
under colour of malicious insinuation that I intend to set
the Indians upon the people. Men of sense and character
know that my office is of the highest importance to promote
peace amongst the Six Nations, and prevent their entering
into any such dispute. This I effected last year when they
were much vexed about the attack made upon the Shawa-
nese, and I last winter appointed them to meet me this
month, to receive the answer of the Virginians. And all
men must allow, that if the Indians find their council fire
disturbed, and their Superintendent insulted, they will take
a dreadful revenge. It is therefore the duty of all people
to prevent this, and to satisfy any who may have been
imposed on, that their suspicions, and the allegations they
have collected against me, are false and inconsistent with
my character and office.

I recommend this to you as highly necessary at this time,
as my regard for the interest of the Country, and self-pre-
servation, has obliged me to fortify my house, and keep men
armed for my defence, till these idle and ridiculous reports
are removed. You may lay this letter before, such as are
interested in those matters. I am, gentlemen, your hum-
ble servant, G. Johnson.

To the Magistrates and others of Palatine, Canajoharie,
and the Upper Districts.

COLONEL GUY JOHNSON TO THE MAGISTRATES OF SCHE-
NECTADY AND ALBANY.

Guy Park, May, 1775.

Gentlmen: As the peace and happiness of the Coun-
try are objects that every good man should have at heart,
1 think it highly necessary to acquaint you, that for a few
days I have been put to the great trouble and expense of
fortifying my house, and keeping a large body of men for
the defence of my person; and have received repeated
accounts that either the New-Englanders, or some persons
in or about the City of Albany or Town of Schenectady,
are coming up, to a considerable number, to seize and im-
prison me on a ridiculous and malicious report that I intend
to make the Indians destroy the inhabitants, or to that effect.
The absurdity of this apprehension may easily be seen by
men of sense ; but as many credulous and ignorant persons
may be led astray and inclined to believe it, and as they
have already sent down accounts, examinations, &,c, from
busy people here, that I can fully prove to be totally devoid
of all foundation, it is become the duty of all those who
have authority or influence, to disabuse the publick, and
prevent consequences which I foresee with very great con-
cern, and most cordially wish may be timely prevented.
Any differences in political ideas can never justify such
extravagant opinions ; and I little imagined that they should
have gained belief amongst any order of people who know
my character, station, and the large property I have in the
country, and the duties of my office, which are to preserve
tranquillity amongst the Indians, hear their grievances, f&c,

and prevent them from falling upon the trade and frontiers.
These last were greatly threatened by the Indians on ac-
count of the disturbances last year between the Virginians
and Shawanese ; during which, my endeavours prevented
the Six Nations from taking a part that would have sensibly
affected the publick; and I appointed last fall that the Six
Nations should come to me this month, in order to receive,
amongst other things, final satisfaction concerning the lands
said to be invaded by the Virginians, who have now sent
me their answer. In the discharge of this duty, I likewise
essentially serve the publick. But should I neglect myself,
and be tamely made prisoner, it is clear to all who know
any thing of Indians, they will not sit still and see their
Council fire extinguished, and Superintendent driven from
his duty, but will come upon the frontiers, in revenge, with
a power sufficient to commit horrid devastation. It is there-
fore become as necessary to the publick, as to myself, that
my person should be defended. But as the measures I am
necessitated to take for that purpose may occasion the pro-
pagation of additional falsehoods, and may at last appear
to the Indians in a light that is not for the benefit of the
publick, I should heartily wish, gentlemen, that you could
take such measures for removing these apprehensions, as
may enable me to discharge my duties (which do not inter-
fere with the publick) without the protection of armed
men and the apprehension of insult; and as the publick
are much interested in this, I must beg to have your answer
as soon as possible. I am, gentlemen, your most humble
servant, G. Johnson.

To the Magistrates and Committee of Schenectady, and
to the Mayor, Corporation, &tc, of Albany ; to be for-
warded by the former.

GENERAL ASSEMBLY OF RHODE-ISLAND.

Providence, Rhode-Island, May 20, 1775.

Whereas the Ministry and Parliament of Great Britain,
sacrificing the glory and happiness of their Sovereign, and
the good of Britain and the Colonies, to their own ambi-
tious and lucrative views, have entered into many arbitrary
illegal resolutions, for depriving His Majesty's subjects in
America of every security for the enjoyment of life, liberty,
and property ; and have sent, and are still sending, Troops
and Ships-of-War into these Colonies, to enforce their tyran-
nical mandates, and have actually begun to shed the blood
of the innocent people of these Colonies ; in consequence
whereof, this Assembly, at the session held on the twenty-
second of April last, passed an Act for raising fifteen hun-
dred men, as an Army of Observation, and to assist any of
our sister Colonies :

And whereas the Honourable Joseph Wanton, Esquire,
then Governour of this Colony, did enter a Protest against
the said Act, conceived in such terms as highly to reflect
upon the General Assembly, and upon the united opposi-
tion of all America, to the aforesaid tyrannical measures :
And whereas the said Joseph Wanton, Esquire, hath neg-
lected to issue a Proclamation for the due observation of
Thursday, the eleventh of May instant, as a day of fast-
ing and prayer, agreeable to an Act passed at the said ses-
sion : And whereas the said Joseph Wanton, Esq., hath
been elected to the office of Governour of this Colony for
the present year, and been duly notified by this Assembly,
notwithstanding which, he has not attended at this General
Assembly, and taken the oath required by law : And where-
as the said Joseph Wanton, Esquire, hath positively refused
to sign the commissions for the officers appointed to com-
mand the Troops so ordered to be raised. By all which
he hath manifested his intention to defeat the good people
of these Colonies in their present glorious struggle to trans-
mit inviolate to posterity those sacred rights they have re-
ceived from their ancestors:

Be it therefore enacted by this General Assembly, and
by the authority thereof it is enacted, That the Deputy-
Governour and Assistants be, and they are hereby forbid to
administer the oath of office to the said Joseph Wanton,
Esq., unless in free and open General Assembly, according
to the unvaried practice of this Colony, and with the assent
of such Assembly ; that until the said Joseph Wanton,
Esq., shall have taken the oath of office as aforesaid, it
shall not be lawful for him to act as Governour of this Col-
ony in any case whatever ; and that every act done by him,

663

CORRESPONDENCE, PROCEEDINGS, &c, MAY, 1775.

664

in the precedent capacity of Governour, shall he null and
void in itself, and shall not operate as a warrant or discharge
to any person acting by his order or under his authority.

And be it farther enacted by the authority aforesaid,
That Henry Ward, Esq., Secretary of the Colony, be and
he is hereby directed and fully authorized and empowered
to sign the commissions for all officers, civil and military,
chosen by this Assembly, as well those going in the service
aforesaid, as others ; he receiving therefor, out of the gen-
eral Treasury, two shillings and eight pence for each com-
mission. And that such commission so signed, with the
Colony seal affixed, shall be as full and effectual warrants
to every and all such officers so chosen, for the faith-
ful discharge of his and their duty, as if the same were
signed by a Governour of this Colony, duly elected and
engaged according to law ; any law, custom, or usage, to
the contrary hereof in any wise notwithstanding.

And be it further enacted by the authority aforesaid,
That his Honour the Deputy Governour be requested, and
fully authorized and empowered, to call the General As-
sembly together upon any emergency, to meet at such time
and place as he shall think most fit for the interest of the
Colony.

COMMITTEE OF SAFETY OF MASSACHUSETTS TO GENERAL
PREBLE.

Cambridge, May 20, 1775.

Sir: This Committee received your favour of the 15th
instant, touching the raising men for the service of this
Colony, and note your just observations on the subject.

The Committee, after the Resolutions of the Congress
for the establishing an Army of 13,600 men, thought the
exigencies of the times, and the exposed situation of the
several Towns near Boston, made it absolutely necessary
that the Army should be immediately raised, and that for
the facilitating of this important business, it was expedient
orders should be issued to such men as are recommended
as proper persons for such important trusts. Accordingly
orders were issued to as many Colonels as were sufficient
to complete said Army ; but from the delay which appeared
in the Army's being formed, by the slow progress made in
the enlisting men, and the exposed situation of the Colony
camp, by the going off of numbers from time to time, it
was rendered necessary that further orders should be issued
for completing the Army with all possible speed ; and, in
consequence of that determination, among others, Colonel
March received orders for the enlisting of a Regiment for
the service of this Colony, and, we understand, has made
some considerable progress in enlisting men for said service.
We are also informed by your Honour, that Colonel Phin-
ney has received enlisting orders from you, and has engaged
in the business of enlisting men to complete a Regiment.
And we are further informed by your Honour, that it is
impracticable that two Regiments should be raised in the
County of Cumberland ; and being told by Colonel Phin-
ney that many of the men that would be raised in your
County, could not be supplied by the Towns, from which
they are enlisted, with fire-arms and blankets, this Com-
mittee, taking into consideration the exposed situation of
your County, and the probability of the Army's being com-
pleted without drawing men from those parts of the Colony
which are more immediately exposed, would recommend,
Sir, that you would use your influence that a stop be put to
the raising any men in your County, until it may be known
by the various returns from the several Colonels authorized
for the raising Regiments, whether it may be necessary to
take any men from your County ; and should this necessity
take place, of raising a Regiment in your County, this Com-
mittee will endeavour to give you such early intelligence
as may be necessary. The request of this Committee to
your Honour, we flatter ourselves will not be conceived by
you as carrying in it the least disrespect to Colonel March
or Colonel Phinney, but solely from the probability of the
Army's being complete, without taking men from those
parts of the Colony which are more immediately exposed.
We should be glad to see your Honour at Head-Quarters ;
hope your health will soon admit, and with you join in the
hope of soon seeing a speedy end to the great difficulties
this distressed Colony now labours under.

We are, Sir, with great respect, your Honour's humble
servants.

LETTER FROM THE COMMITTEE APPOINTED TO CONFER
WITH THE CONGRESS OF NEW-HAMPSHIRE.

Exeter, May 20, 1775.

Sir : In obedience to the orders of the Congress, we
have executed the commission betrusted us, and find the
General disposed to concur in every measure that shall con-
duce to the publick good. Enclosed, Sir, is their Resolve
of Congress. We can add no more than giving you ac-
count of their seizing a number of masts in Portsmouth,
destined for the Navy. Their firmness, resolution, and
unanimity, gives us great pleasure, and are, Sir, with the
highest respect, your most obedient humble servants,

Joseph Gerrish,
Ebenezer Sawyer.
To the President of the Congress of the Massachusetts

Colony, if sitting, and if not, to the Chairman of the

Committee of Safety.

In Provincial Convention at Exeter, )
May 20, 1775. \

Whereas by the late Acts of the British Parliament, and
conduct of the Ministers in pursuance thereof, it appears
very evident that a plan is laid and now pursuing, to subju-
gate this and the other American Colonies to the most
abject slavery ; and the late hostilities committed by the
British Troops in our sister Colony of the Massachusetts-
Bay, leaves us no doubt in determining that no other way
is left us to preserve our most darling rights, and inestima-
ble privileges, but by immediately defending them by arms.
Reduced, therefore, by this most terrible necessity, this
Convention, after the most solemn deliberations, have

Resolved, That it is necessary to raise immediately two
thousand effective men in this Province, including officers,
and those of this Province that are already in the service,
and that the time of their enlistment continue to the last
day of December next, unless the Committee of Safety
should judge it proper that a part or the whole be discharged
sooner.

That every member pledge his honour and estate in the
name of his constituents, to pay their proportion for the
maintenance and pay of the above officers and soldiers
while in service.

That application be made immediately to the Continen-
tal Congress, for their advice and assistance respecting
means and ways to put the above plan into execution.

That the establishment of the officers and soldiers shall
be the same as in the Massachusetts-Bay.

Agreed, That the Selectmen of the several Towns and
Districts within this Colony, be desired to furnish the sol-
diers, who shall enlist from their respective Towns and
Districts, with good and sufficient blankets, and render their
account to the Committee of Supplies.

That if it should appear that the above number of men
is not our full proportion with other Governments, that this
Convention will make a proper addition for that purpose.
Matthew Thornton, President.

REVEREND WILLIAM GORDON TO DOCTOR J. WARREN.

Jamaica Plains, May 20, 1775.

Sir : Shall be obliged to you would you stop any letters
directed for me that may be brought by the post, and send
them by the bearer, who will pay the postage. Should the
Committee approve of sending me Hutchinson's loose let-
ters, with the letter books, on Monday, will apply myself
to sorting them according to date, reading them over, and
notifying every thing that shall appear to me of impor-
tance to be laid before the publick. Your very humble
servant, and brother in the same common cause,

William Gordon.

LETTFP. FROM FOUR MOHAWKS TO THE ONE1DAS, TRANS-
LATED FROM THE MOHAWK INTO ENGLISH.

Written at Guy Johnson's, May, 1775.

This is your letter, you great ones or Sachems. Guy
Johnson says he will be glad if you get this intelligence, you
Oneidas, how it goes with him now, and he is now more
certain concerning the intention of the Boston people. Guy
Johnson is in great fear of being taken prisoner by the Bos-

665

CORRESPONDENCE, PROCEEDINGS, fcc, MAY, 1775.

666

umians. We Mohauks are obliged to watch him constantly.
Therefore we send you this intelligence that you shall know
it, and Guy Johnson assures himself, and depends upon
your coming to his assistance, and that you will without
fail be of that opinion. He believes not that you will
assent to let him suffer. We therefore expect you in a
couple of days' time. So much at present. We send but
so far as to you Oneidas, but afterward perhaps to all the
other Nations. We conclude and expect that you will
have concern about our ruler, Guy Johnson, because we
are all united. Aren Kannenzaron,

Johannes Tegarihoge,
Deyagodeaghnaweagh.
Joseph Brant,

Guy Johnson's Interpreter.

RESOLUTIONS OF THE COMMITTEE OF TRYON COUNTY, NEW-
YORK, ON THE LETTER OF COLONEL GUY JOHNSON, OF
MAY 20, AND THE LETTER FROM THE MOHAWKS.

In Committee, Tryon County, May 21, 1775.

1. That it is the opinion of this Commitee that the In-
dians who signed the letter never would have presumed to
write or send the same, if they had not been counte-
nanced.

2. That as we have unanimously adopted the proceed-
ings of the Grand Continental Congress, and mean vir-
tuously to support the same, so we feel and commiserate
the sufferings of our brethren in the Massachusetts-Bay,
and the other Colonies in America, and that we mean
never to submit to any arbitrary and oppressive acts of any
power under Heaven, or to any illegal and unwarrantable
action of any man or set of men.

3. That as the whole Continent has approved of the
actions and proceeding of the Massachusetts-Bay, and
other of the Provinces of New-England, we do adopt
and approve of the same. Wherefore we must and do
consider that any fortification or armed force raised, to be
made use of against them, as evidently designed to over-
awe and make us submit.

4. That Colonel Johnson's conduct in raising fortifica-
tions round his house, keeping a number of Indians and
armed men constantly about him, and stopping and search-
ing travellers upon the King's highway, and stopping our
communication with Albany, is very alarming to this Coun-
ty, and is highly arbitrary, illegal, oppressive, and unwar-
rantable ; and confirms us in our fears, that his design is
to keep us in awe, and oblige us to submit to a state of
slavery.

5. That as we abhor a state of slavery, we do join and
unite together under all the ties of religion, honour, jus-
tice, and a love for our Country, never to become slaves,
and to defend our freedom with our lives and fortunes.

COMMITTEE OF PALATINE DISTRICT, TRYON COUNTY, TO
THE ALBANY COMMITTEE.

Upon the alarming news that expresses were gone to
call down the Upper Nation of Indians to Colonel John-
son's, we caused ourselves to be convened this day, to take
the state of this County into consideration ; upon which
we have determined to order the inhabitants of this District
to provide themselves with sufficient arms and ammuni-
tion, and to be ready at a moment's warning. We are
sorry to acquaint you that all communication with your
County is entirely stopped by Colonel Johnson, who has
five hundred men to guard his house, which he has forti-
fied, under pretence that he is afraid of a visit of the New-
Englandmen, as will appear by a copy of a letter we
intercepted this morning. We have not fifty pounds of
powder in our District, and it will be impossible for you to
help us to any till the communication is opened, not a man
being suffered to pass without being searched. To-morrow
is to be a meeting of Canajoharie District, when we expect
they will adopt congressional measures very heartily, and
we purpose to have a meeting of the Committees of both
Districts, and propose the question, whether we will not
open the communication by force ; if which question is
determined in the affirmative, we shall despatch another
express to you, acquainting you with the day, when we
hope you will be on your way up with some ammunition.

We have just sent off an express to the German Flats,
and Kingsland Districts, desiring them to unite with us and
give us their assistance ; which Districts, or at least a great
majority of them, we are credibly informed, are very hearty
in the present struggles for American liberty. We are,
gentlemen, perhaps in a worse situation than any part of
America is at present. We have an open enemy before
our faces, and treacherous friends at our backs, for which
reason we hope you will take our case into your immediate
consideration, and give us an answer by the bearers, who
go express by the way of Schoharie, as we dare not trust
them any other way. They have orders to wait for an
answer. We have reason to think that a great many of
the Indians are not satisfied with Colonel Johnson's con-
duct, for which reason we have thought it would not be
improper to send a couple of men, well acquainted with
the Indian language, to dissuade them from coming down.
And we think it would be of service to us if you could
send two also, who are able to make the Indians sensible
of the present dispute with the Mother Country and us.
We have the pleasure to acquaint you, that we are very
unanimous in our District, as well as in Canajoharie, and
we are determined by no means to submit to the oppres-
sive acts of Parliament, much less to Colonel Johnson's
arbitrary conduct.
Miy 21, 1775.

EXTRACT OF A LETTER TO A GENTLEMAN IN PHILADEL-
PHIA, DATED BOSTON, MAY 21, 1775.

You request my writing freely, which I must be cautious
of, for reasons which will naturally occur to you. As to
the inhabitants removing, they are suffered to go out under
certain restrictions. This liberty was obtained after many
town meetings, and several conferences between their Com-
mittee and General Gage. The terms mutually agreed
to were, "that the inhabitants should deliver up all their
arms to the Selectmen." This was generally done, though
it took up some days. On this occasion the inhabitants
were to have had liberty to remove out of Town, with
their effects, and during this, to have free egress and
regress. But mark the event : the arms being delivered,
orders were issued by the General, that those who inclined
to remove must give in their names to the Selectmen, to
be by them returned to the Military Town Major, who
was then to write a pass for the person or family applying,
to go through the lines, or over the ferry ; but all mer-
chandise was forbid ; after a while, all provisions were
forbid ; and now all merchandise, provisions, and medicine.
Guards are appointed to examine all trunks, boxes, beds,
and every thing else to be carried out ; these have pro-
ceeded to such extremities, as to take from the poor peo-
ple a single loaf of bread, and half pound of chocolate ;
so that no one is allowed to carry out a mouthful of provi-
sions ; but all is submitted to quietly. The anxiety indeed
is so great to get out of Town, that even were we obliged
to go naked, it would not hinder us. But there are so
many obstructions thrown in the way, that I do not think
those who are most anxious will be all out in less than
two or three months — vastly different from what was
expected, for the General at first proposed, unasked, to
procure the Admiral's boats to assist the inhabitants in the
transportation of their effects, which is not done, and there
are but two ferry-boats allowed to cross. They have their
designs in this, which you may easily guess at. We suffer
much for want of fresh meat.

GENERAL WARD TO THE MASSACHUSETTS CONGRESS.

Head-Quarters, May 21, 1775.

The General requests the ordnance hereafter mentioned
may be immediately procured and sent to Head-Quarters,
viz: thirty twenty-four pounders — if the whole number
cannot be obtained, the number be made up with eighteen
pounders, double fortified ; ten twelve-pounders; eighteen
nine-pounders ; and ordnance stores for the above can-
non, viz : twenty-one thousand and six hundred pounds of
powder, and eighty balls for each cannon ; fifteen hundred
stand of arms; twenty thousand pounds musket powder;
forty thousand pound of lead ; and also seventeen hundred
pots. J. Ward, Secretary.

667

CORRESPONDENCE, PROCEEDINGS, &c, MAY, 1775.

668

JAMES SULLIVAN TO THE MASSACHUSETTS COMMITTEE OF
SAFETY.

New-Hampshire, May 21, 1775.

Honoured Sir : This will be handed to you by Mr.
Scammell who I have recommended as major of the Coun-
ty of York Regiment.

I trouble you early, to let you know that the Regiment
in the County of Cumberland will have not more than one
gun to three men, and expect to be armed by the Prov-
ince. If the Colony does not intend to arm them, I appre-
hend that notice thereof should be immediately given to
Colonel March. It may be thought best to bring no men
from that part of the Colony. I am, with much vener-
ation, your very humble servant, James Sullivan.
To Joseph Warren, President of the Committee of Safety.

THE COMMITTEE OF SAFETY TO THE MASSACHUSETTS
CONGRESS.

Cambridge, May 21, 1775.

This Committee have often contemplated the mode of
ascertaining the method of completing the several Regi-
ments, and find no clear and explicit rule to their satisfac-
tion, and therefore beg leave to suggest to the honourable
Congress of this Colony whether a return from a muster-
master, that such or such a Regiment had such a number
of privates who had passed muster, would not be a good
rule for ascertaining when a Regiment may be said to be
full, and submit the consideration of the same to the hon-
ourable Congress. We are, &c.

PRINCE WILLIAM COUNTY (VIRGINIA) COMMITTEE.

At a meeting of a Special Committee for the County of
Prince William, held at the house of Thomas Young, in
the Town of Dumfries, on Monday, the 22d day of May,
1775. Present: Foushee Tebbs, Esquire, in the Chair.
Messrs. William Grayson, Thos. Blackboum, Henry Lee,
Andrew Leitch, Richard Graham, William Brent, John
Brett, John McMillian, Henry Peyton, John Peyton,
Hugh Brent, James Tripolett, Synaugh Helen, William
Tebbs, Thomas Atwell, William Carr, Jesse Ewell, and
Cuthbert Harrison.

A Proclamation by his Excellency Lord Dunmore, with
the advice of His Majesty's Council, having appeared in
the publick papers, charging a certain Patrick Henry, and
his followers, with rebellious practices, for extorting from
the Receiver-General the sum of three hundred and thirty
Pounds, in satisfaction for the Powder his Lordship thought
proper to remove from the publick Magazine in Williams-
burgh ;

This Committee having taken the said transaction into
their serious consideration ; and it appearing to them from
the Address of the Corporation of the City of Williams-
burgh, on the removal of the Powder, wherein a claim is
made, as restitution is required, and no right in Govern-
ment by his Excellency at that time alleged, which we
conceive he would naturally and necessarily have done if
any such had existed ; and having also been informed from
respectable authority, that assurance had been given to
several gentlemen in Williamsburgh, by his Lordship, that
if no disturbances were raised the Powder should be re-
turned : for these and other reasons which might be given,
they are of opinion that the Powder removed from the
publick Magazine in Williamsburgh, did of right belong to
this Colony.

This Committee being further of opinion that the late
violent and hostile proceedings of His Majesty's Troops in
the Massachusetts-Bay, in attempting to seize the military
stores of that Colony, would have justified reprisals of a
much greater magnitude :

Resolved, therefore, unanimously, That the thanks of
this Committee are justly due to Captain Patrick Henry,
and the Gentlemen Volunteers who attended him, for their
proper and spirited conduct on that alarming occasion.
By order : Evan Williams, Clerk.

that should any of them, in the impending struggle for our
dearest rights, be driven from their habitations, that the
people of Buckingham are disposed to give the most
friendly reception to as many of the wives, children, and
slaves of those their brethren, as their situations severally
will permit; as also to join them with their whole strength
to restore them to the peaceable and quiet enjoyment of
their possessions.

Farther, that if any of their said brethren would choose,
by way of precaution, to make settlements and cultivate
grain in Buckingham, that, coming with recommendations
from their County Committees, they may have lands as-
signed them, and continue on them as their own, until a
cessation of the present troubles ; also, that their stocks
shall be equally welcome to the woods and fields of the said
County, except such part only as may propagate the mur-
rain, which, as endangering the common means of subsist-
ence, may be equally dangerous to all parties. The Com-
mittee of Buckingham do not doubt but their sentiments
upon the matter in question will be general throughout the
interiour Counties.

Published by order of the Committee, held at the Court-
House, the 22d of May, 1775.

Rolfe Eldridge, Clerk.

MIDDLESEX COUNTY (VIRGINIA) COMMITTEE.

At a meeting of the Committee for the County of Mid-
dlesex, on Monday, the 17th of April. 1775 :

A complaint was lodged against one Thomas Haddin,
an inhabitant of said County, for refusing to sign the Con-
tinental Association, and reviling the same : Whereupon
the Committee ordered him to be summoned to appear be-
fore them this 22d of May ; and it plainly appearing that
he had been summoned, but that he not only refused to
appear, but expressed himself in terms of the highest con-
tempt, both of the Association and Committee :

Resolved, therefore, That the said Thomas Haddin be
held forth to the publick as an enemy to American lib-
erty.

Ordered, That a copy of the above be sent to the
Printers of the Virginia Gazette, and that they be re-
quested to print the same.

Lodowick Jones, Clerk to Committee.

MEETING OF THE INHABITANTS OF CHARLES COUNTY,
MARYLAND.

At a meeting of the Inhabitants of Charles County, in
Port-Tobacco Town, on Monday, the 22d day of May,
1775:

Captain George Dent, Chairman, and

John Gwinn, Clerk.

Resolved unanimously, That George Dent, Samuel
Hanson, William Smallwood, Josias Hawkins, Francis
Ware, Joseph H. Harrison, Thomas Stone, Daniel Jeni-
fer, Robert T. Hooe, John Dent, Samuel Love, Thomas
Hanson Marshall, Philip R. Fendall, Samuel Hanson, of
Samuel, William Harrison, and John H. Stone, be and
are by this meeting appointed Deputies to represent this
County in any General Convention to be held for this
Province ; and that any five or more of them have power
and authority to act for and bind this County.

By order of the Committee :

John Gwinn, Clerk.

BUCKINGHAM COUNTY (VIRGINIA) COMMITTEE.

The Committee of the County of Buckingham desire it
may be known to the inhabitants of the lower Counties,

EXTRACT OF A LETTER FROM A GENTLEMAN IN PHILA-
DELPHIA TO HIS FRIEND IN WILLIAMSBURGH, VIRGINIA,
DATED MAY 22, 1775.

We know the plan of Ministry is to bring the Canadians
and Indians down upon us ; for this reason the Provincial
Troops of Connecticut and Massachusetts have wisely
taken, by a brave coup de main, possession of the forts at
Ticonderoga and Crown Point. In the former they got
two hundred pieces of large cannon, some field-pieces,
swivels, powder, &tc. &tc. The Congress have directed
New- York, Connecticut, and Massachusetts, to remove
these stores, &tc, to the south end of Lake George, and take
strong posts there, to intercept the communication and
march of Canadian and Indian forces into these Colonies.

669

CORRESPONDENCE, PROCEEDINGS, &c, MAY, 1775.

670

The faking of Ticonderoga last war cost Great Britain
many thousand lives, and an immense expense; but now
it has been taken from them, though strong and well gar-
risoned, by the bravery and enterprise of a few Provincials,
and at a very small expense.

There never was a more total revolution at any place
than at New-York. The Tories have been obliged to fly.
The Province is arming ; and the Governour dares not call
his prostituted Assembly to receive Lord North's foolish
plan. Two of the Delanceys, Watts, Cooper, Rivington,
Colonel Philips, and the rest of the Tory leaders, are fled ;
some to England, and some to private places in the coun-
try, where they are not known. The Congress have ad-
vised the Yorkers to make provision for carrying their
women and children into the country, and to remove their
warlike stores before the arrival of the Troops there, whom
they are not to suffer to encamp, or commit with impunity
any hostilities against the people.

The latest and best accounts from Boston make the loss
of Regulars, in killed and wounded and missing, one thou-
sand men. The Provincial loss was trifling. Ten thousand
men are now encamped before the Town, between which
and the country there is no intercourse. General Gage
refuses to let the people out ; in consequence of which their
distress presently must be grievous indeed. The besieging
army keep the one besieged in constant alarm ; so that it is
said that they rest neither night nor day. Every day is
expected to bring two thousand men more from Ireland,
and seven Regiments to New- York, where the Tories had
informed Ministry they would be well received. But now,
behold, they come to a Country universally hostile, and
in arms, to receive them. Connecticut has twelve thousand
men in arms ; the Jerseys a good many ; and this Province
at least eight thousand. There are two thousand in this
City, well-armed and disciplined. In short, every Col-
ony this way is well prepared for war, and appear to be
secure against any force likely to be sent against them. It
would seem as if the Southern Colonies were alone vulner-
able at present, and this should be remedied as soon as
possible.

It seems the bill for restraining the Trade of the Colo-
nies is not to have force until a certain time after its arrival
in North America ; so that in this instance the whole power
of the Legislature is given to Ministry ; for it will depend
on them when the Act shall arrive here, since they may
send it when, or never, as they please.

We find, by the late accounts, that Ministry will be more
puzzled than they imagine, to accomplish their detestable
purposes against us. A gentleman of the strictest veraci-
ty writes, that the embarkment from England has been
delayed, by the impossibility of getting seamen for the
ships; but, he adds, let not this delay your vigorous efforts
for defence. From Ireland we learn that the people there
have interposed to prevent the embarkment ; and that a
contest has happened, in which several lives were lost on
both sides.

The other day, General Gage hearing that all the Pro-
vincial Troops, except fifteen hundred, were retired to sign
an Association prepared for them at some distance from the
encampment, marched with his whole force out of Boston ;
but seeing the fifteen hundred Provincials drawn up in or-
der for battle, and disliking their countenance, he returned
within his lines.

A man-of-war's tender at Rhode-Island lately seized a
vessel loaded with provisions for the Army at Boston ; and
the country people, in boats, attacked and took both the
provisions, vessel, and tender, having wounded the Lieu-
tenant of the man-of-war, and taken his men prisoners,
whom they conveyed captives into the country. Thus you
see our infant struggles on the water are not unsuccessful.

LETTER FROM THE NEW-HAMPSHIRE DELEGATES AT PHI-
LADELPHIA, TO THE PROVINCIAL COMMITTEE OF THAT
COLONY.

Philadelphia, May 22, 1775.

Gentlemen : We take this early opportunity of inform-
ing you by Captain Partridge, that the Congress, upon
hearing of the forts at Ticonderoga and Crown Point
being seized by the people of New-England, to prevent
General Carleton, with his Canadians and Indians taking

possession of them to annoy our frontiers ; and finding, by
about thirty Indian Chiefs now in Philadelphia, as well as
by persons sent to sound the disposiiions of all the several
Indian Nations, that such a design is really on foot ; and
that General Johnson, the Superintendent for Indian affairs,
has really endeavoured to persuade the Indians to enter
into a war with us ; and that many other steps have been
taken by a bloody-minded and cruel Ministry, to induce
those hereditary enemies of America to fall upon and
butcher its inhabitants ; we say, upon those things appear-
ing to the Congress, they have ordered the above forts to
be demolished, and the warlike stores to be removed, and
another fort to be erected and maintained at the lower
part of Lake George, if the Committee of New- York shall
think it necessary, and to call upon all the New-England
Governments to give assistance, if required by New-York.
We earnestly entreat you, for the honour of the Province,
if such a requisition be made, to give them every possible
assistance to preserve our people from the incursions of a
barbarous and savage enemy.

We are sorry, gentlemen, that honour will not permit us
to give you the least information respecting our proceed-
ings. We can only say that all the Colonies are firmly
united, and are preparing for the worst. We hope that
you will, in imitation of the other Colonies, proceed to
choose your officers, and establish your Militia upon the
new plan which has been adopted by every Colony upon
the Continent. We shall bring with us Governour Went-
wortKs letters to Lord Dartmouth, for twelve months
past, that you my judge whether he is your friend, as
he pretends, or whether he is not rather your inveterate
enemy.

Gentlemen, we are, with great respect, your most obe-
dient servants, John Sullivan,

John Langdon.,

To the Provincial Committee of New-Hampshire.

P. S. We earnestly entreat you to prevent our General
Court from making any application to Great Britain for
redress of grievances, as that would draw all America upon
our Province, it being agreed that no one shall make terms
without the advice and consent of the whole.

NEW-YORK COMMITTEE.

The Committee met, by adjournment, Monday, 22d of
May, 1775. Present:

Isaac Low, Hamilton Young, Nicholas Hoffman,

Henry Remsen, Gabriel H. Ludlow, Gabriel \V. Ludlow,

David Johnston, Evert Banker, Isaac Roosevelt,

P. V. B. Livingston, Joseph Totten, Peter Goelet,

David Beekman, Cornelius Clopper, Lancaster Burling,

Victor Bicker, Gerardus Duyckinck, Robert Benson,

John Broome, Benjamin Kissam, John Lamb,

John Imlay, William Walton, Hercules Mulligan,

Daniel Dunscomb, Abram. Brinkerhoff, Theophilus Anthony,

Oliver Templeton, William Laight, Abraham Walton,

John Anthony, James Beekman, Robert Ray,

John B. Moore, John M. Scott, William W. Ludlow,

Thomas Randall, Jacobus Lefferts, Petrus Byvanck.

Jacobus Van Zandt, Benjamin Helme, William Denning,

Thomas Smith, Anthony Van Dam, Abraham Duryee,

Peter Van Schaack, Daniel Phenix, John Berrian,

Gerret Kotlotas, John Lasher, William Goforth,

John De Lancey, Richard Yates, Thomas Buchannan,

Joseph Hallett, Augustus Van Home, David Clarkson,

Alex. McDougall, Francis Bassett, Edward Fleming,

Frederick Jay, Thomas Marston, Comfort Sands,

Jacob Van Voorhies, Samuel Verplanck, Peter T. CurUnius.

William W. Gilbert, Nicholas Bogart,

Mr. Laight, from the Sub-Committee appointed to make
an estimate of materials necessary to be forwarded to Al-
bany, made a Report thereof.

Ordered, That the same be forwarded.

Mr. McDougall, seconded by Mr. Lamb, moved in the
words following, viz :

That two members of this Committee be sent to the
Deputies of the County of Albany, now in this City, to
confer with them whether the County of Albany can fur-
nish men to garrison Ticonderoga, till the Stores there are
removed to the south side of Lake George, agreeable to a
Resolution of the Continental Congress.

Mr. De Lancey, seconded by Mr. Scott, moved for an
amendment of the above Motion, in the words following,
viz : by leaving out all the latter part of the said Motion,
from the words " be sent," and substituting in its room :

671

CORRESPONDENCE, PROCEEDINGS, he, MAY, II

672

be desired to wait on the Provincial Convention, without
delay, and lay before them the Recommendation of the
Continental Congress relative to applying to the neighbour-
ing Colonies for Forces.

And the question being put thereon, it was carried in the
affirmative, as follows, viz:

For the Amendment.

Mr. Remsen,
iMr. Johnston,
Mr. D. Beekman,
Mr. Dunscomh,
Mr. Templeton,
Mr. Moore,
Mr. Randall,
Mr. Smith,
Mr. Van Schaack,
Mr. Ketlutas,
Mr. Dn Lancey,
Mr. HaUett,
Mr. Young,

.Mr. Leflbrts,

'Mr. Heinle,
Mr. V.iii Dan,
Mr. Van Home,
Mr. BuMtt,
.Mr. Bogart,
Mr. Hoffman,

Mr. G. VV. Ludlow,
Mr. J. Roosevelt,
Mr. Goelct,
Mr. Benson,
Mr. T. Anthony,
Mr. A. Walton,

Against the Amendment.
Mr. Livingston,
Mr. J. Broome,
Mr. Iuil iv,
Mr. Sands,
Mr. F. Jay,
Mr. B.rri.in,
Mr. Goforth,

Mr. J. Anthony,
Mr. Lasher,
Mr. Burling,
Mr. Bicker,
Mr. McDougall,
Mr. Yates,
Mr. G. H. Ludlow, Mr. Ray, Mr. Buchannan,

Mr. Bankor, Mr. VV. W. Ludlow, Mr. Van Zandt,

Mr. Clopper, Mr. Byvanck, Mr. Lamb,

Mr. Duyckinck, Mr. Duryee, Mr. Denning,

Mr. Kissam, Mr. Clarkson, Mr. T. Marston,

Mr. W. Walton, Mr. Van Voorhies, Mr. Brinkerhoff,

Mr. Liight, Mr. Vcrplanek, Mr. Phenix,

Mr. J. Beekman, Mr. Fleming, Mr. Mulligan,

Mr. Scott, Mr. Curtenius. Mr. Gilbert,

Mr. Totten.

Ordered, That Captain Berrian and Mr. Laight be a
Sub-Committee to wait on Mr. Anderson, to know whether
he chooses to give any answer to Mr. McEvers's written
application to this Committee, which was served upon him
last Sunday morning.

Ordered, That Messrs. Brinkerhoff, Ketletas, Sands,
F. Jay, Bull, and Curtenius, be a Committee to inquire
what quantity of Blankets, Ravens Duck, Osnaburghs,
Russia Sheeting, Tin Plates, and Coarse Cloths, are in
this City, and to request the favour of the possessors not
to part with them for a few days, until the Provincial Con-
gress shall determine on the expediency of detaining them
for our own use.

The Committee adjourned to Monday, 29th May, 1775.

NEW-VORK COMMITTEE TO GOVERNOUR TRUMBULL.

New- York, May 22, 1775.

Honoured Sir: I am directed by the General Com-
mittee of Association for this City and County, to transmit
to your Honour the enclosed authentick copy of a Reso-
lution of the Continental Congress, received by express ;
and to inform your Honour, that in consequence thereof,
we immediately shipped to Albany one hundred barrels of
pork ; and that a Select Committee has been appointed to
purchase and forward, without delay, cordage, oakum, pitch
gins, and every other necessary that may be wanted from
hence, to carry into execution the aforesaid Resolution.
We have also, by express, desired our brethren at Albany
to give their aid and assistance. I have the honour to be,
most respectfully, your Honour's most obedient and hum-
ble servant, Henry Remsen, Dep. Chairman.

Honourable Governour Trumbull.

letter from the mayor, aldermen, and commonalty
or albany to the committee for palatine district,
tryon county, new-york.

Albany, May 22, 1775.

We this day received yours, without date, directed to the
Magistrates and Committee of Albany and Schenectady,
and to the Mayor, Corporation, Sic, of Albany, wherein
you write that you have received repeated accounts that
either the New-Englanders, or some persons in or about
this City or the Town of Schenectady, are coming up, to a
considerable number, to seize and imprison you, on a ridicu-
lous and malicious report that you intend to make the In-
dians destroy the inhabitants, or to that effect, and that
you, in consequence thereof, have been put to the great
trouble and expense of fortifying your house, and keeping
a large body of men for the defence of your person, he.

You proceed and say, that the absurdity of this appre-
hension may easily be seen by men of sense, but that as
many credulous and ignorant persons may be led astray,
and inclined to believe it, &c, it is become the duty of all
those who have authority or influence to disabuse the pub-

lick, and prevent consequences which you foresee with
very great concern.

We are very sorry to learn from you that any groundless
reports should have arisen, and be propagated to your pre-
judice, considering your character, station, and the large
property you have in the County. And we trust that you
are so wefl acquainted with the nature and duties of your
office, that you will pursue the dictates of an honest heart,
and study the interest, peace, and welfare of your Coun-
try ; in which case we presume you need not be appre-
hensive of any injury in your person or property. Neither
can we learn nor conceive that there either is or has been
any intention of taking you captive, or offering you any in-
dignity whatever, either by the New-England people or
any of the inhabitants of this City, or any one else ; and we
have but too much reason to think that these groundless
reports have been raised and industriously propagated, in
your own phraseology, by some busy people in your Coun-
ty, to rouse up the Indians from their peaceful habitations,
and take up arms against such of our American brethren
as are engaged on the part of America in the unhappy
contest between Great Britain and her Colonies.

As it appears from your letter that you consider the
station wherein you are placed, as Superintendent of Indian
affairs, to be of the highest importance to the publick, we
hope that you will use all possible means in your power to
restore peace and tranquillity among the Indians, and as-
sure them that the report propagated prejudicial to you or
to them is totally groundless of any just foundation, and
that nothing will afford His Majesty's subjects in general a
greater satisfaction, than to be and continue with them on
the strictest terms of peace and friendship.

ALBANY, NEW-YORK, COMMITTEE TO COL. GUY JOHNSON.
Committee Chamber, May 23, 1775.

Sir: Several letters have been handed to us, addressed
to the Magistrates of Schenectady and Mayor and Corpo-
ration of Albany, some of which you requested to be com-
municated to us, whereby we, with great concern, observe
you are much alarmed with apprehensions of evil intentions
against your family, and self in particular, from a body of
New-Englanders or people from those parts, so as to put
you under the necessity of fortifying yourself for safety.
From what cause these terrible ideas have sprung, we are
entirely ignorant. If any real ones, you must be better
acquainted with them than we are ; however, we do assure
you that the first and last knowledge of such designs have
come to us from you, and of course must have originated
somewhere near you. We are not ignorant of the impor-
tance of your office as Superintendent, and have been per-
fectly easy with respect to any suspicions of the Indians
taking a part in the present dispute between Great Britain
and her Colonies, knowing them to be a people of too
much sagacity to engage with the whole Continent in a
controversy that they can profit nothing by, and which
would throw them into endless war and misery. As long
as they are peaceable, they need not be under apprehen-
sions of hostilities commencing against them.

We have been some time ago informed that there was to
be a Congress at your house of the Indians, and hope such
methods may be taken then as will give them a just sense
of the nature of the present disturbances, and that they may
govern themselves by such a line of conduct as will appease
the minds of such persons in your County as may be un-
easy on their account.

The information we have from time to time received,
very lately from travellers passing by your house, has given
us some pain, as we find the communication betwixt this
and your County in a manner stopped, insomuch that no
person is permitted to pass without undergoing a strict ex-
amination. These proceedings will, if not speedily stop-
ped, raise the resentment of the people, we fear, and cause
them to undertake such acts as will not be in the power of
any authority to restrain. We would, therefore, be glad,
and permit us to recommend it seriously to your attention,
that you would leave the communication free, and disperse
your guards, and not interfere with the meetings of the
people, intended solely to concert measures for the preser-
vation of their liberties, in conjunction with the other
Counties of this and the rest of His Majesty's Colonies.

673

CORRESPONDENCE, PROCEEDINGS, &tc, MAY, 1775.

674

MASSACHUSETTS PROVINCIAL CONGRESS.

In Provincial Congress, Watcrtown,
May 22, 1775.

" Resolved, That the following Narrative of the excur-
sion and ravages of the King's Troops, under the com-
mand of General Gage, on the nineteenth of April last,
together with the Depositions taken by order of the Con-
gress to support the truth of it, be sent to the press for
publication. Samuel Freeman, Secretary."

A Narrative of the Excursion and Ravages of the King's
Troops, under the command of General Gage, on the
nineteenth of April, 1775; together with the Deposi-
tions taken by order of Congress to support the truth
of it. Published by authority.

On the nineteenth day of April, one thousand seven
hundred and seventy-five, a day to be remembered by all
Americans of the present generation, and which ought,
and doubtless will be handed down to ages yet unborn, the
Troops of Britain, unprovoked, shed the blood of sundry
of the loyal American subjects of the British King in the
field of Lexington. Early in the morning of said day, a
detachment of the forces under the command of General
Gage, stationed at Boston, attacked a small party of the
inhabitants of Lexington and some other Towns adjacent,
the detachment consisting of about nine hundred men, com-
manded by Lieutenant-Colonel Smith : the inhabitants of
Lexington, and the other Towns were about one hundred,
some with and some without fire-arms, who had collected
upon information that the detachment had secretly march-
ed from Boston on the preceding night, and landed on
Phipps's farm in Cambridge, and were proceeding on their
way with a brisk pace towards Concord, as the inhabitants
supposed, to take or destroy a quantity of stores deposited
there for the use of the Colony ; sundry peaceable inhabi-
tants having the same night been taken, held by force, and
otherwise abused on the road, by some officers of General
Gage's Army, which caused a just alarm, and a suspicion
that some fatal design was immediately to be put in exe-
cution against them. This small party of the inhabitants
was so far from being disposed to commit hostilities against
the Troops of their Sovereign, that, unless attacked, they
were determined to be peaceable spectators of this extra-
ordinary movement ; immediately on the approach of Col-
onel Smith with the detachment under his command, they
dispersed ; but the detachment, seeming to thirst for blood,
wantonly rushed on, and first began the hostile scene by
firing on this small party, by which they killed eight men
on the spot, and wounded several others before any guns
were fired upon the Troops by our men. Not contented
with this effusion of blood, as if malice had occupied their
whole souls, they continued the fire, until all of this small
party who escaped the dismal carnage were out of the
reach of their fire.

Colonel Smith, with the detachment, then proceeded to
Concord, where a part of this detachment again made the
first fire upon some of the inhabitants of Concord and the
adjacent Towns, who were collected at a bridge upon this
just alarm, and killed two of them, and wounded several
others, before any of the Provincials there had done one
hostile act. Then the Provincials, roused with zeal for the
liberties of their Country, finding life and every thing dear
and valuable at stake, assumed their native valour, and
returned the fire, and the engagement on both sides began.
Soon after, the British Troops retreated towards Charles-
town, having first committed violence and waste on publick
and private property, and on their retreat were joined by
another detachment of General Gage's Troops, consisting
of about a thousand men, under the command of Earl
Percy, who continued the retreat. The engagement lasted
through the day ; and many were killed and wounded on
each side, though the loss on the part of the British
Troops far exceeded that of the Provincials.

The devastation committed by the British Troops on
their retreat, the whole of the way from Concord to Charles-
town, is almost beyond description ; such as plundering and
burning of dwelling-houses and other buildings, driving into
the street women in child-bed ; killing old men in their
houses unarmed. Such scenes of desolation would be a
reproach to the perpetrators, even if committed by the
most barbarous Nations; how much more when done by

Britons famed for humanity and tenderness ! and all this
because these Colonies will not submit to the iron yoke of
arbitrary power.

DEPOSITIONS TAKEN BY ORDER OF THE CONGRESS.

[For Depositions No. 1. to No. 20. inclusive, see Folio 489-501.]

A paper having been printed in Boston, representing that
one of the British Troops killed at the bridge at Concord,
was scalped and the ears cut off from the head ; supposed
to be done in order to dishonour the Massachusetts people,
and to make them appear to be savage and barbarous, the
following deposition was taken, that the truth may be known.

[No. 21.]

Concord, May 11, 1775.

We, the subscribers, of lawful age, testify and say, that
we buried the dead bodies of the King's Troops that were
killed at the North Bridge in Concord, on the nineteenth
day of April, 1775, where the action first began, and that
neither of those persons were scalped, nor their ears cut
off, as has been represented. Zachariah Brown,

Thomas Davis, Jr.

Zachariah Brown and Thomas Davis, Jr., personally
appeared before me, and made oath to the above declara-
tion. Duncan Ingkaham, Justice of the Peace.

[No. 22.]
Hannah Adams, wife of Deacon Joseph Adams, of the
second Precinct in Cambridge, testifieth and saith, that on
the nineteenth day of April last past, upon the return of
the King's Troops from Concord, divers of them entered
our house by bursting open the doors, and three of the
soldiers broke into the room in which I then was laid on
my bed, being scarcely able to walk from my bed to the
fire, and not having been to my chamber door from my
being delivered in child-birth to that time. One of said
soldiers immediately opened my curtains with his bayonet
fixed, and pointing the same to my breast. I immediate-
ly cried out, " for the Lord's sake don't kill me." He re-
plied, "damn you." One that stood near, said, "we
will not hurt the woman if she will go out of the house,
but we will surely burn it." I immediately arose, threw a
blanket over me, went out, and crawled into a corn-house
near the door, with my infant in my arms, where I remained
until they were gone. They immediately set the house on
fire, in which I had left five children and no other person ;
but the fire was happily extinguished when the house was
in the utmost danger of being utterly consumed.

Hannah Adams.

Middlesex, ss., Cambridge, Second Precinct,

May 17, 1775 :
Hannah Adams, the subscriber of the above deposition,
personally appeared and made oath to the truth of the
same. Before me,

Jona. Hastings, Justice of the Peace.

[No. 23.]

Cambridge, May 19, 1775.

We, Benjamin Cooper and Rachel Cooper, both of Cam-
bridge aforesaid, and of lawful age, testify and say, that in
the afternoon of the nineteenth day of April last, the
King's Regular Troops, under the command of General
Gage, upon their return from blood and slaughter which
they had made at Lexington and Concord, fired more than
one hundred bullets into the house where we dwell, through
doors, windows, &z.c. ; then a number of them entered the
house where we and two aged gentlemen were, all unarmed.
We escaped for our lives into the cellar ; the two aged gen-
tlemen were immediately most barbarously and inhumanly-
murdered by them, being stabbed through in many places,
their heads mauled, sculls broke, and their brains beat out
on the floor and walls of the house. And further saith not.

Benjamin Cooper,
Rachel Cooper.

Middlesex, ss., May 19, 1775:

The above named Benjamin Cooper and Rachel Cooper
appeared, and after due caution, made solemn oath to the
truth of the above deposition by them subscribed.

Before me, Jonas Dix, Justice of the Peace.

Fourth Series. — Vol. u.

43

675

CORRESPONDENCE, PROCEEDINGS, &c, MAY, 1775.

676

RAVAGES OF THE KING S TROOPS ON THE NINETEENTH
OF APRIL, 1775.

The Committee appointed to estimate the damages done
at Cambridge, Lexington, and Concord, hy the King's
Troops on the 19th day of April, 1775, having attended
that service, beg leave to report :

That the devastation made by fire and robbery on said
day, by said Troops, is as follows, viz:

The damage to the buildings in Cambridge, estimated
according to the best skill and judgment of your Commit-
tee, after viewing the same, amounts to £76 5s. 6d.

The value of the goods and chatties that were destroyed
or taken out of said houses, or near the same, by the estima-
tion of those persons, (by their several accounts exhibited)
on cj>;!i, who lost the same, amounts to £1036 6s. 3d.

The value of the goods and chatties that were destroyed
or taken out of said houses, or near the same, by the esti-
mation of those persons, by their several accounts exhi-
bited, who left the same, but were not sworn to by reason
of some being absent, or some other inconveniences that
attended the same, amounts to - £72 6s. lOd.

Damage done to the meeting-house and school-house in
the north-west precinct, in said Cambridge, estimated by
your Committee, amounts to - £0 13*. Ad.

Vessels, linen, and cash belonging to the church of
said precinct, taken out of the house of Joseph Adams,
deacon of said church, as by his account exhibited on
oath, amounts to - - - £16 16*. Sd.

Total, £1202 8s. Id.

Damages sustained in Lexington, viz:
The following buildings destroyed by fire, with cash,
utensils, and other moveables, either burnt in the same, or
carried away, estimated by the owners of said premises, as
by their accounts exhibited on oath, £891 8s. 6d.

Damage to other buildings in said Town, estimated as
the buildings in Cambridge, amounts to £32 18s. Id.

Damage (by robbing of said Troops) by sundry inhabi-
tants, as by their several accounts on oath, £760 18s. 2d.

Damage sustained by other inhabitants, as their several
accounts exhibited, but not on oath, for the reasons afore
mentioned, amounts to £74 4s. 2d.

Damage to meeting-house in said Town, £l 12s. Od.

Total, £1761 Is. hd.

Damage sustained in Concord, viz:
The buildings estimated as above, - £2 12s. Qd.
Damage sustained by sundry inhabitants in manner afore-
said, under oath, amounts to £209 16s. lOd.

Damage by other inhabitants, not under oath, for rea-
sons aforesaid, amounts to - £59 Is. 9d.

Damage to sundry door-locks broke in His Majesty's
Jail, in said Town, by account exhibited on oath, by the
tinder keeper of said jail, amounts to £3 6s. Od.

Total, £274 16s. Id.

Abraham Fuller,
Ichabod Goodwin,
Oliver Whitney,

Committee.

SAMUEL BULLARD TO THE MASSACHUSETTS COMMITTEE OF
SAFETY.

Sherburn, May 22, 1775.

Gentlemen : A harmony between officers and privates
was never more necessary to promote the general good
than at this present period. Permit me for a moment to
suggest to you, what appears to me in its consequences
very detrimental to that unanimity hinted above. A ser-
geant and private soldier informed me this day, that Col-
onel Jacob Miller, of Hollistown, was likely to be dis-
charged from his command in the Regiment. I must say,
gentlemen, this information gave me great pain, when I
consider him as a brave and resolute man, a good soldier,
and a person who made no interest to obtain the command
he held. He is universally esteemed by all who personally

know him, and was chosen agreeably to the direction of
the Committee of Safety, as declared by Colonel Pierce,
moderator of the corps of officers at the time of choice.
Consider, gentlemen, the apparent consequences which are
likely to ensue should Colonel Miller be discharged . I
am credibly informed that three or four companies that
are raised and are raising will refuse serving in the Re-
giment, and perhaps be the means of ruining the Regi-
ment entirely. 1 thought it my duty to communicate these
hints for the good of my Country, which 1 hope will be a
sufficient apology for this address. I am, gentlemen, your
most obedient servant, Samuel Bullard.

TO THE PROVINCIAL CONGRESS OF MASSACHUSKTTS.

In Committee of Supplies, Watorlown, )
M..y 23, 1775. ^

Sir: The letters which we have this day received from
General Ward, through your Honourable Congress, carry
with them such ungenerous treatment as this Committee
could not conceive that it had merited. We, Sir, are con-
scious to ourselves of having discharged the heavy duty of
our office to the utmost of our power with fidelity, and we
think if your General has any consideration he must ac-
knowledge it ; nevertheless, after he knew that we had
issued an advertisement for collecting the Colony Arms in
the Essex Gazette, instead of assisting us in the matter,
the Congress is troubled with the affair, as if their Com-
mittee was incapable of transacting such a trivial under-
taking.

But what we think most hardly of is the affair of the
plank. We received a memorandum, and ordered it to be
provided immediately ; the owner of the mills had not pro-
cured them yesterday, but engaged to have them in readi-
ness by Tuesday morning, which we directed the boatman
to apprise the General of. We shall, in justice to ourselves,
expect an explanation of this matter, when the affairs of
the Colony can be a little settled, from the General; and
in the interim think it necessary to remove any unfair sug-
gestions from the minds of the members of your Honour-
able Congress. Being, Sir, with respect, your humble ser-
vant, David Cheever, per order.

MASSACHUSETTS COMMITTEE OF SAFETY TO THE PROVIN-
CIAL CONGRESS.

In Committee of Safety, Cambridge, )
May 22, 1775. £

Sir : This Committee having received from Captain
Benedict Arnold, by letter of the 11th of May, instant,
information respecting the reduction of Ticonderoga, and
the situation of that fortress in many respects, beg leave
to lay said letter before the Honourable Congress, that
they may proceed thereon in such manner as to them in
their wisdom shall seem meet. This Committee apprehend
it to be out of their province in any respect whatever.

We are, with due respect, your Honours' obedient hum-
ble servants, J. Palmer, Chairman.
To the Honourable President of the Provincial Congress,

now sitting at Watertoicn.

MASSACHUSETTS CONGRESS TO BENEDICT ARNOLD.

Watertown, Miy 22, 1775.

Sir: This Congress have this day received your letter
of the eleventh instant, informing the Committee of Safety
of the reduction of the fort at Ticonderoga, with its depen-
dencies which was laid before this Congress by said Com-
mittee. We applaud the conduct of the Troops, and
esteem it a very valuable acquisition.

We thank you for your exertions in the cause, and con-
sidering the situation of this Colony at this time, having a
formidable Army in the heart of it, whose motions must be
constantly attended to, and as the affairs of that expedition
began in the Colony of Connecticut, and the cause being
common to us all, we have already wrote to the General
Assembly of that Colony to take the whole matter respect-
ing the same under their care and direction, until the advice
of the Continental Congress can be had in that behalf, a
copy of which letter we now enclose you.
We are, &tc.

67

CORRESPONDENCE, PROCEEDINGS, fcc, MAY, 1775.

U78

EARL OF DARTMOUTH TO G0VERN0UR TRYON.

Whitehall, May 23, 1775.

Sir: In a very short time after you embarked upon
your return to your Government, the Petition to the King,
the Memorial to the House of Lords, and the Representa-
tion to the House of Commons of the Assembly of New-
lork, upon the subject matter of the grievances they
complain of, in various instances, of the exercise of the
constitutional authority of Parliament, were received ; and
Mr. Burke having delivered to me the Petition to the
King, I had the honour to present it to His Majesty, who
was pleased to receive it with the most gracious expres-
sions of regard, and attention to the humble request of his
faithful subjects in New-York, who have on this occasion
manifested a duty to His Majesty, and a regard for the
authority of the Parent State, which, had they not in the
Memorial to the House of Lords, and in the Representa-
tion to the House of Commons, been unfortunately blended
with expressions containing claims which made it impossi-
ble for Parliament, consistent with its justice and dignity,
to receive them, might have laid the foundation of that
conciliation we have so long and so ardently wished for.

1 will, however, still hope (and I am strengthened in that
hope by private advices received to day from Pennsylva-
nia) that the Resolution of the House of Commons of the
27th of February will remove all obstacles to the restora-
tion of the publick tranquillity ; and 1 am commanded by
the King to say that nothing can give greater satisfaction
to the Royal breast than to see us again a happy and united
people.

Should such an event take place it will be, and ought
in justice to be, attributed in great measure to the mode-
ration and good disposition which has appeared in the As-
sembly of New-York ; and whilst they continue firm, the
body of people must soon be convinced how equally vain
and improper it is to insist upon claims inconsistent with
their dependance on the authority of Parliament, and that
the only constitutional method of obtaining redress for any
grievances they may have to complain of, is through the
channel of their legal Representatives in Assembly. I am,
Sir, your most obedient humble servant, Dartmouth.

Govemour Tryon.

THE CRISIS, NO. XIII.

London, May, 1775.

Every Englishman must deplore the ill success, and
abhor the unworthy treatment, which attended the two late
conciliatory plans in relation to America. Pregnant with
good sense, benevolence, and sound reason, they will do
eternal honour to the wisdom, justice, policy, and human-
ity of the heads and hearts that formed them. How dif-
ferent was the plan of North ! Crafty, mean, insidious,
impolitick, irrational, shallow, and (like himself and coad-
jutors) beneath contempt. This was not treating with
America, but insulting her ; every step against her hitherto
has been founded in the greatest inhumanity, the grossest
ignorance, and the worst policy. I will proceed to prove
my assertion, and defy the whole cabal of ministerial
slaughtermen to confute me. I do not call upon the
master butcher, because he can only be considered (after
the part he has acted by asserting) an executive, and not
as a rational master in this business.

First, then, for the humanity of these proceedings: let
it be granted only, as it must, that the Crown stands in
the same relation to America as a parent to her child, and
my first assertion proves itself. Have any gentle, tender,
sensible means been used to reconcile her? Have not her
humble remonstrances, proposals, submissions, and suppli-
cations, been treated with contempt ? Not suffered to lie
on the table of a British House of Commons? Have
they been deemed worthy of a thought by her pious Sover-
eign ? Has she not been branded with the ignominious
name of rebel by Act of Parliament, for no other reason,
(I mean no true one,) than because she has wisely and
calmly deliberated upon, remonstrated against, and steadily,
but not tumultously, resented the repeated injuries she
has received ?

As to riots by mobs, they are not to be imputed to her
as treason and rebellion. America, as a Nation most un-
constitutionally oppressed, has hitherto only deliberated

upon her sufferings. She has not acted. My I^ords Suf-
folk, Pomfret, Radnor, Apsley, and Sandwich, they have
not acted. It is as yet no treason, my Lords, to think, to
advise, to fear, and to prepare. You cannot, you dare
not move to annul, as you may wish, the statute of treasons
in America. The Americans have as good a right to that
as your Lordships. I mean, as yet, my Lords, because I
am not quite satisfied that, even in the present smuggled
and corrupt Parliament, the boldest and most venal prosti-
tute durst make so dangerous a trial upon the patience and
long sufferance of this Kingdom.

I will now inform your Lordships, that it is contrary to
the Law of Nations to attempt the destruction even of the
most inveterate enemy by famine, until he has been first
solemnly summoned to submit. Have the Americans ever
yet been (though, if men, they shortly will be) in arms?
Have they yet had a prospect of any other terms than
such as would make them slaves? Will they be weak
enough to submit to such conditions ? The preliminaries
hitherto proposed have been founded in oppression, not in
reason ; they are fit for brutes, not men. The lenient,
the compassionate North, has treated America like the
assassin of an alley ; with his knife at her throat, he has
humanely left it at her choice to strip herself, for fear she
should be stripped by him. Why have the Ministry had
recourse at first to this inhuman scheme of famine ? They
fear the Army will relent, when they find they must wade
through the blood of their own countrymen. Their present
General (Gage) has, to his honour, declined the bloody
task. Even a foreigner, to whom the same command was
offered, has revolted at the thought. Is not this stratagem
of starving freemen into slavery, the most inhuman, as well
as the most cowardly of all others, especially when it is
considered that all the remonstrances of these unhappy
sufferers have been rejected ? I should insult the reader's
understanding by waiting for a reply. I therefore come
to the next ingredient in the American persecution — igno-
rance.

I must first remark, that some of their wise Lordships
were for having Maryland and Virginia, very remote in-
land countries, prohibited from the Fishery. Thus far
have some of the great and sage counsellors of this Nation
been ignorant even of the situation of that part of their
fellow-creatures whom they wish to involve in the most
dreadful of all calamities — famine. But the very scheme
itself is impracticable ; these wretched people cannot be
totally destroyed, either by butchery or famine ; their num-
bers are great and formidable ; in such a vast extent of
country their resources will be endless ; they are not desti-
tute of arms already, and they will be supplied with more
in spite of our vigilant fleet. They have all the materials
necessary for war in the bowels of their Country ; they
have artists, handicraftsmen, manufacturers, and mechan-
icks of all sorts ; cattle of all kinds ; fruit of the earth in
vast abundance ; fine streams and rivers, though no doubt
Administration, for the sake of consistency, will give strict
orders, and pay highly for the poisoning of these ; but that
will not easily be effected ; these people in general know
the use of arms ; they have perseverance, courage, reso-
lution, and, above all, most prophetick Lord Sajidtvich !
they have virtue, which can never be overcome. Should
our Army strike and fall, the hatred, enmity, and revolt of
America, is fixed forever ; they never will submit to lick
the tyrant hand which has once been raised against their
liberties, their properties, and their lives. Under the
above considerations, the present scheme of Government
must seem impracticable ; if so, or if, from rancour and
resentment it has been viewed but partially, it is the gross-
est ignorance to pursue it. Should Heaven interpose on
the side of justice, we shall perceive our error too late.
But were our attempts by sword or famine sure of success.
Government is only destroying its own vitals.

What, then, is the policy of this unnatural war? It is
like the war between the belly and the other members ;
the whole State must feel its consequence. Shallow North
told his House of Commons (for it is his) that the imports
from the American Continent were inconsiderable. Now,
my Ix>rd, you ought to know (and in honour you should
have declared) that the imports of that part of America
into our Sugar Colonies, were the very life of them ; neither
planters nor negroes can subsist without them, particularly

679

CORRESPONDENCE, PROCEEDINGS, &c, MAY, 17*5.

680

in the prohibited, interdicted article of fisli, which, when
salted, is their general food. Your Lordship, by your
war and your intended famine, has effectually starved and
ruined all the passive and obedient Sugar Colonies, as well as
your declared enemies in America. Thus a most valuable
fishery, a considerable sugar trade, and thousands (perhaps
millions) of innocent and brave lives will be sacrificed by
a narrow-minded Ministry to wicked views and insatiable
resentments, in the reign of a monarch born a Briton !
An ancient Pict, or a wild Indian, savage in their natures,
would blush and shudder at such proceedings. With the
Colonies and trade the revenue must sink. If royal
profusion and ministerial corruption were to sink likewise,
it would be well ; but they will still attempt to draw blood
from the most impoverished veins. The commercial, the
landed interest, the publick bank, at last, must feel the
shock. Then, perhaps, when famine threatens at our own
doors, the British lion will be roused. Then, for I will
prophesy in my turn, comes a revolution, fatal to minions,
pensioners, placemen, knaves, and tyrants; but happy for
the Nation, if, from the ashes of all these pests, the rights
of suffering and insulted Englishmen can be once more
established. We shall find it to our cost in vain to send
English soldiers ; none but Scotch will do the business
against English breasts. I am of opinion, let the wishes
of the Ministry be what they will, that if every officer who
goes upon this assassination were a Burgoyne, he would
be disappointed of the blood he pants for, his command
will be sinecure, and his victory a brave and virtuous de-
sertion. All who deserved the name of soldiers, would
throw down their arms, and embrace their gallant and
happy countrymen. An English army will not, and a
navy cannot destroy the liberties of America; the Minis-
try, who wish to deceive the Nation, are, as they frequently
are, deceived themselves; they cannot execute their plan
without extraordinary and successive, almost perpetual
drafts of forces. Should the patient spirit of this King-
dom rise at such a time in arms, and France and Spain
add to the horrours of a civil war, even in the midst of
these calamities it will be some consolation, that the ad-
visers, abetters, and detestable heads of these diabolical
measures, cannot long escape the vengeance of an injured
people.

WILLIAM HOOPER TO SAMUEL JOHN JOHNSTON, IN NORTH
CAROLINA.

Philadelphia, May 23, 1775.

Dear Johnston : The close attention which I am com-
pelled to pay to the business of the Congress, scarce gives
me an opportunity to pay my duty to my friends. As we
meet at nine A. M. and sit till four P. M.,you will readily
conceive that the little leisure we have is not sufficient for
the common functions of life and exercise to keep us in
health. While I am writing I encroach upon Congress
hours, and if I could furnish you with any thing interest-
ing it might be some apology for the transgression. But
the strict secrecy which is enjoined upon the members,,
leaves us at large to communicate nothing worthy atten-
tion that happens within the walls of the State-House.
Let it suffice, that the most perfect harmony subsists among
the members.

The character of the New-Yorkers is no longer sus-
picious. They take a forward and an active share in the
opposition ; all ranks of people among them are embarked
in the common cause, and are sacredly resolved to preserve
the cargo or perish with the ship. The few Tories among
them are silent; the cry of liberty is irresistible. The
..'•■■•«. j who are never happy except when dabbling
in faction, have met a just reward for their misguided zeal,
and have been compelled (six of them) to seek protection
on board a King's ship, liivington follows their fortunes,
and his printing shop, which forged calumny and sedition
for the whole Continent, is shut up. New-York must
now become the seat of war. The taking of Ticojidero-
ga will divert the attention of Government to that quarter,
and the New- Yorkers will not long be suffered to be in-
different spectators of its operations. Believe me, I do
not think they wish to be. Their City is filled with
armed men, whom they have raised and disciplined, to be
called into action when hostilities begun on the part of

Lord North's troops shall render it necessary. Govern-
ment has sent them the Asia, man-of-war, we suppose to
protect their trade, or rather to give spirit to the Tories ;
but that day is past ; they are sunk, never to rise again.

This City has taken a deep share in the insurrection
which is so generally diffused through the Continent.
Men, women, and children feel the pat riot ick glow, and
think every man in a state of reprobation beyond the power
of heavenly mercy to forgive, who is not willing to meet
death rather than concede a tittle of the Congress creed.

Quakerism has received a shock from which it will never
recover. An attempt to restrain the other sects in their
spirited conduct, has only shown the weakness of their
efforts, and the insignificancy of their numbers, when in
competition with those who think and act differently from
them. The Testimony, to their eternal dishonour, accom-
panied with the proceedings of the New-York Assembly,
gave encouragement to Administration to adopt the present
compulsory measures, which, at this hour, we all lament ;
for certain it is, till those got to hand, the plan prepared
by the Administration was conciliatory.

If it should be thought expedient to raise troops in each
Colony, and money of course must be supplied, from
whence must it come in our Province ? Would the Pro-
vincial Convention think it prudent to emit for that pur-
pose, or are not the circumstances such as to leave no
alternative to their choice ? Whether this, or what, will be
recommended, is still in suspense. This, however, is cer-
tain, that it will be necessary that a Convention should be
held immediately upon the return of the Delegates. I
would, therefore, advise Mr. Harvey to warn the several
Counties immediately to elect Representatives to sit in
Convention, and I would propose that each County should
send ten at least. This is consistent with the New-York
policy, which thereby has given strength to the cause, by
interesting so many in the protection of it. Every man,
let his property be ever so small, has still his rights to
preserve, and claims a share in the publick consultation,
which must eventually affect him. Such a step with us
would be prudent. The spirit wants more in JSiorth- Caro-
lina, I think; perhaps you may think ten too many.

Hewes sends you the newspapers. Pray make my com-
pliments acceptable to every branch of your worthy family.
Remember me affectionately to Mr. Iredell. I refer you
to James Charlston for every thing which is not related in
the newspapers. Only let me add to the members of the
Committees, that a resolve has passed the Congress, and
ordered to be published, that no vessel shall be suffered to
load for Newfoundland, St. John's, or Nova-Scotia, to sup-
ply the British fisheries there, or any where else along the
coast of America. This is much to be noticed ; it is a just
retaliation for restraining the American fishery.

Hewes orders me to Congress that he may have an
opportunity to despatch his vessel ; and as Caswell is indis-
posed I must obey, and thereby save your patience a
further trial. I am your affectionate friend and obedient
humble servant, William Hooper.

Williamsburgh, Virginia, May 25, 1775.

Last Tuesday evening, May 23d, the Honourable Pey-
ton Randolph, Esquire, escorted all the way from Rujfin's
Ferry by a troop of thirty-six of the fVilliamsburgh Volun-
teers, and met a little way out of Town by the rest of the
company, arrived safe at his house in this City, amidst the
acclamations of the inhabitants, from the General Congress
at Philadelphia ; and next morning they presented him
with the following Address, as a tender of their best ser-
vices at this dangerous and alarming period :

To the Honourable Peyton Randolph, Esquire:

We, the members of the Volunteer Company in Wil-
liamsburgh, embodied to support the constitutional rights
and liberties of America, are exceedingly alarmed to hear,
from report, that the same malevolent demons from whom
have originated all the evils of America, are now exerting
their utmost treachery to ensnare your life and safety. The
friends of liberty and mankind have never escaped the fury
of arbitrary despots. No wonder, then, that you should be
selected as a proper victim to be sacrificed to the malice of
the present Administration.

681

CORRESPONDENCE, PROCEEDINGS, he, MAY, 1775.

682

Permit us, therefore, (attached to you by the noble ties
of gratitude and fellow-citizens,) to entreat you in the
wannest manner to be particularly attentive to your own
safety, as you regard the interests of this Country. We
now proffer to you our services, to be exerted at the ex-
pense of every thing a freeman ought to hold dear, as you
may think most expedient, in the defence of your person
and constitutional liberty, and will most cheerfully hazard
our lives in the protection of one who has so often encoun-
tered every danger and difficulty in the service of his coun-
trymen. May Heaven grant you long to live, the father
of your Country and the friend to freedom and humanity.

To which he was pleased to return the following Answer:
Gentlemen: The affection you have expressed for me
demands the warmest returns of gratitude. I feel very
sensibly the happiness resulting from the kind attention of
my worthy fellow-citizens to my security and welfare.
Your apprehensions for my personal safety arise from re-
ports which, I hope, have no foundation. Such unjust and
arbitrary proceedings would bring on the authors of them
the resentment and indignation of every honest man in the
British Empire. 1 shall endeavour to deserve the esteem
you have expressed on this occasion, and shall think it the
greatest misfortune that can attend me if ever my future
conduct should give you any reason to be displeased with
the testimony you have now offered of your approbation.

WESTMORELAND COUNTV (VIRGINIA) COMMITTEE.

At a meeting of the Committee of Westmoreland Coun-
ty, held at the Court-House the 23d of Muij, 1775, pre-
sent the Rev. Thomas Smith, Chairman, and fifteen other
members of said Committee.

This Committee having taken into consideration the
Address of the citizens of Williamsburgh, presented to his
Excellency the Governour, on the 21st of April last, and
his Excellency's verbal answer thereto, as also his Lord-
ship's Speech to the Council, the 2d of May, and the
Proclamation issued the next day, in consequence of the
advice given him by a majority of the said Council, look
upon themselves as indispensably bound to declare their
sentiments thereon, as well to expose the inimical measures
of men in high office, for a long time steadily pursued
against the just rights of a loyal people, as to take off the
odium they have endeavoured by some late proceedings to
fix upon this Colony.

The seizing the powder, confessedly placed in the Maga-
zine for the defence and protection of this Colony, by order
of his Excellency the Governour, was a step by no means
to be justified, even upon the supposition of its being lodged
there from on board a man-of-war, as his Lordship has in
his Proclamation asserted, although in his verbal answer to
the Address of the citizens of Williamsburgh, he has ta-
citly acknowledged the powder to belong to the Country,
by agreeing to deliver it up : that is, the same powder they
demanded as the Country's; and we have been informed
that the Country had powder in the Magazine, which cannot
now be found there : We therefore consider the removing
the powder privately, and when that part of the Country
was, as his Lordship confesses, in a very critical situation,
to be a part of that cruel and determined plan of wicked
administration to enslave the Colonies, by first depriving
them of the means of resistance, and do Resolve,

1st. That the dissatisfaction discovered by the people of
this Country, and late commotions raised in some parts
thereof, proceeded, not as his Lordship in his Proclama-
tion has injuriously and inimically charged, from a dis-
affection to His Majesty's Government, or to a design of
changing the form thereof, but from a well grounded alarm,
occasioned altogether by the Governour's late conduct,
which clearly evinced his steady pursuit of the above men-
tioned ministerial plan to enslave us.

2d. That so much of his Excellency's Proclamation
which declares " the real grievances of the Colony can be
only obtained by loyal and constitutional applications," is
an insult to the understanding of mankind, inasmuch as it
is notorious that this and the other Colonies upon the Con-
tinent have repeatedly heretofore made those applications,
which have ever been treated with contumely, and as his
Lordship, since the late unhappy differences between

Great Britain and the Colonies have subsisted, hath de-
prived us of the constitutional mode of application, by re-
fusing to have an Assembly.

3d. That so far from endeavouring or desiring to subvert
our ancient, and to erect a new form of Government, we
will, at the risk of our lives and fortunes, support and de-
fend it, as it existed and was exercised until the year 1763,
and that his Lordship, by misrepresenting the good people
of this Colony, as well in his letter to the British Minister as
in his late Proclamation, has justly forfeited their confidence.

4th. That His Majesty's Council, who advised the
Proclamation before-mentioned, have not acted as they
were bound to do from their station in Government, which
ought to have led them to be mediators between the first
Magistrate and the people, rather than to join in fixing an
unjust and cruel stigma on their fellow-subjects.

5th. That the thanks of this Committee are justly due
to the Delegates of the late Continental Congress, and to
the Delegates from this Colony particularly, for their pru-
dent, wise, and active conduct, in asserting the liberties ot
America; and that the design of Government which, in
some instances, we are informed, has already been carried
into execution, to deprive them of all offices, civil and
military, tends manifestly to disturb the minds of the peo-
ple in general ; and that we consider every person advising
such a measure, or who shall accept of any office or pre-
ferment, of which any of the noble asserters of American
liberty have been deprived, as an enemy to this Country.

Ordered, That the Clerk transmit a copy of the forego-
ing Resolutions to the Printer as soon as conveniently may
be, in order that the same may be published in the Ga-
zette. James Davenport, Clerk CovCtte.

At a Committee held for Westmoreland County, May
23, 1775,

Besolved, That every Merchant or Factor who shall
import European Goods into this County from any other
Colony or District, shall, before he be permitted to sell
such Goods, produce to the Chairman, or any one of the
Committee, a certificate from the Committee of the Colony,
County, or District from whence such Goods were pur-
chased, of their having been imported agreeable to the
terms of the Association of the Continental Congress.

James Davenport, Clerk.

TALBOT COUNTY (MARYLAND) COMMITTEE.

At a meeting of the Committee of Observation for Talbot
County, on the 23d of May, 1775, at the Court-House of
the said County,

The Rev. Mr. John Gordon, Chairman.

A Letter from the Committee of Observation in Balti-
more Town, bearing date May 20, 1775, and signifying that
the Ship Johnston, belonging to Mr. Gildart, of Liverpool,
was loaded with Salt and Dry Goods, by the house of Messrs.
Ashton, and bound to Chesapeake Bay, was read.

In consequence whereof, a deputation, consisting of
eleven gentlemen, was appointed to wait on Mr. James
Braddock, agent and store-keeper for Mr. Gildart, owner
of the said Ship Johnston, to advise him of the information
received, to request him to give a satisfactory account and
state of all goods now in his hands, and not to assist or
countenance, directly or indirectly, the landing of any
goods from the said ship, or in any way to promote the
sale thereof. On the whole, the deputation aforesaid had
it in charge to require an answer from Mr. Braddock, as to
the part he meant to act on this occasion, and whether he
would comply with their requisition, and to report the same
to the Committee on Tuesday, the 30th instant, on which
day they agreed to meet, unless the deputation should
think it necessary to call a Committee sooner, in which
case they were requested to give publick notice.

On the 30th instant the Committee, as above, met ac-
cording to appointment, when the deputation aforesaid
appeared, and reported that they went to Mr. Braddock's
store, but not finding him at home, they left a copy of the
letter from the Committee of Baltimore Town, together
with a copy of the order of this Committee, to be delivered
to him when he should return.

In consequence of this Mr. Braddock appeared before
the Committee, and informed them " that he did expect

683

CORRESPONDENCE, PROCEEDINGS, &c, MAY, 1775.

684

the Ship Johnston shortly to arrive in Miles River, but that
he had do advice, nor had any reason to believe (except
from the aforesaid letter from the Baltimore Town Com-
mittee) that the said ship would bring either Dry Goods or
Salt."

Mr. Braddock did likewise, at the same time, volunta-
rily enter into the following engagement and promise :
" That if the Ship Johnston, or any other vessel having on
board any Goods or Merchandise prohibited by the Ame-
rican Association, shall come addressed to him, or to any
other agent or factor for Mr. Gildart, he will, in such an
event, neither directly nor indirectly receive, nor assist in
landing, storing, or following the said Goods or Merchan-
dise, but that, on the contrary, he will, immediately and
forthwith, give notice of the arrival of the said ship or
other vessel to the above mentioned deputation, or to some
four of them, (who are appointed to go on board such ship
or vessel, and to examine the papers, viz : the manifest,
the cockets, and log-book,) and that he would give direc-
tions for the immediate return of any ship or vessel address-
ed to him, without breaking bulk."

Mr. Braddock delivered, at the same time, to the Com-
mittee an inventory of the Goods he has now on hand,
with which they declared themselves satisfied for the pre-
sent.

On the same day information being made to the Com-
mittee that Mr. Brascup, tavern-keeper at Talbot Court-
House, had, on Tuesday, the 23d of May, served up a
Lamb at his table, he was accordingly called before the
Committee to give an account of his conduct ; and upon
his informing them that he had not purchased more than
two or three Lambs, which he had been assured were yean-
ed before the first clay of January, and on his promise that
he would not, for the future, purchase any more Lambs
without a certificate from the seller that they had been
yeaned, either before the first day of January or after the
first of May, the Committee were satisfied, and dismissed
Mr. Brascup.

Ordered, That the above proceedings be published in
the Maryland Gazette.

Signed by order of the Committee :

Robert Wilson, Clerk pro tern.

ROBERT HANNA AND OTHERS TO GOVERNOUR PENN.

Pittsburgh, May 23, 1775.

May it please your Honour : Shortly after our con-
finement here we wrote you in what manner we have been
treated by the court of Fort Dunmore, as 'tis called, and
also enclosed a list of actions brought against us for acting
in our office, with the writs of adjournment from and to
Staunton; but we have the greatest reason to believe it
has not yet come to your hands, by reason of our receiving
no answer. We have ever since remained, and now are in
jail bounds, though often threatened with close confine-
ment. We, with the assistance of one of our brethren
now in the same state with us, (namely, Thomas Scott,)
would inform your Honour as follows, viz : The said Scott
was recognised on the thirteenth of November last past, to
appear at the next court then to be holden at this place ;
notwithstanding the appearance was made accordingly, and
no court held, yet the recognisance was continued; and
since, the body of said Scott was arrested by armed force,
with five writs, one at the suit of the King, and four civil
processes, for acting by virtue of your Honour's commis-
sion of the peace ; to which process the said Scott appeared
here at court the sixteenth instant, and upon the said recog-
nisance, was adjudged by the court to be bound in five
hundred Pounds, with two sureties in two hundred and fifty
Pounds each, to keep the peace, be of good behaviour, and
in particular not to act as a Magistrate by any authority de-
rived from Pennsylvania. On refusing to give such bail,
on account of the latter clause in particular, though suffi-
cient bail for the prison bounds was tendered, was ordered,
and put into close jail with murderers and thieves, and
there detained about one hour ; but on a motion to the court,
made by Mr. Harcie, was admitted to prison bounds bail.

In consequence of the disagreeable circumstances we
now labour under, and more especially those of us who
have families, we look upon it absolutely necessary to send
the bearer hereof express, (who is ordered to wait your

answer.) praying your immediate instructions, whether we
shall give the bail required by this court, break the bounds,
or in what manner we shall be enlarged, or conduct our-
selves to your Honour's satisfaction, and the interest of the
Government, to which we are closely attached.

Sir, the unhappy situation to which this Country is at
present reduced by the proceedings of the Virginians, has
rendered it impossible for us to collect any sum of money
whatever ; and our ready cash being nearly exhausted in
defence of the cause, lays us under the necessity of apply-
ing to your Honour for the sum of fifteen Pounds, which
we were obliged to promise to said express for his services,
which we hope you will order him paid before he leaves
Town, and also enclose such other sums of money as you
may think sufficient to defray the past expenses, and answer
the present necessities of your Honour's most obliged and
very humble servants, Robert Hanna,

James Cavet,
Thomas Scott.
To the Honourable John Penn, Esq., Governour and Com-
mander-in-Chief of the Province of Pennsylvania, Sic.

ROBERT HANNA AND OTHERS TO GOVERNOUR PENN.

Pittsburgh, May 23, 1775.

May it please your Honour : Messrs. Hanna and
Cavet, who were apprehended and taken into custody the
twenty-second of last February, as you have been already
informed by despatches forwarded to you by them imme-
diately for that purpose : and we are sorry to find that they
have not as yet received any reply to their letters on that
subject, although they are now upwards of three months
confined to prison bounds at this place, to the great preju-
dice of their persons and families, by pretended authority
from the Government of Virginia, which did, and still
continues to tyrannize over this unhappy part of your
Province, but more especially over us, who beg leave to
address your Honour on this pressing occasion, for we are
aimed at in a particular manner as the objects of their re-
sentment, therefore are doomed to utter ruin and destruc-
tion, if they by any means can accomplish their aim. They
are not satisfied with imprisoning our persons, (of which
every one of us has participated in turn,) but insult and
domineer over us as well in open court as every where
else opportunity serves. They have procured a number of
litigious law suits, entered against every one of us, for act-
ing as Magistrates by authority from the Government of
Pennsylvania, as well before, as since Lord Dunmore and
his tools usurped the jurisdiction of this distressed part of
the Province ; the Militia continuing to kill our cattle and
hogs, just as it suits them, without any questions asked of
the owners, or satisfaction offered.

They likewise take upon themselves to determine our
title to lands, as well between this and Ligonier, as beyond
this place, by a jury of twelve men of their own choosing,
without allowing the defendant the privilege of objecting
to any of that number; notwithstanding Magistrates of their
own appointment could be procured on the ground to testify-
some of these select men were the sworn enemies of the
defendants.

This was actually the case with Mr. Devereux Smith,
the third instant, when Connolly in the like manner dispos-
sessed him of a tract of land some miles eastward of this
place, and declared it should be the property of one George
Sly ; and, in six days afterwards, the Sheriff* broke open
Mr. Smith's door, and gave the said Sly possession. In
short we are deemed and treated like degraded beings that
are nowise entitled to the common right of mankind; and
the very name of a Pennsylvanian is sufficient to render
any man odious at this day now-a-days.

To conclude, we are worried out with repetitions of ty-
ranny and oppression, and greatly injured in bodies, minds,
and estates ; in the meantime we are, with sincere attach-
ments to your Honour's person and Government, your
Honour's most humble and most devoted servants,

Robert Hanna, jEneas Mackay,
James Cavet, Thomas Scott.

Devereux Smith,
To John Penn, Esquire, Governour of the Province of Penn-
sylvania, &,c.

P. S. As we find ourselves so deeply engaged in law-

685

NEW-JERSEY PROVINCIAL CONGRESS, MAY, 1775.

686

suits, brought against us for acting as Magistrates, both
before and since Lord Dunmore extended the jurisdiction
this length, we were obliged to employ Mr. John Harvie
to appear in our behalf in all the actions already brought
on account of Government. We therefore humbly hope
you will be pleased to honour a draft amounting to thirty
Pounds, our money, drawn by us in favour of said Harvie
on you ; to be paid when it may come to hand, which
will oblige us all.

NATHANIEL WALES, JUN., AND OTHERS, TO THE SPEAKER
OF THE ASSEMBLY OF CONNECTICUT.

New-York, Miy 23, 1775.

Sir: We arrived in this city last evening, and have the
satisfaction to inform you that the Committee of New-
York have complied with the direction of the Continental
Congress, as to furnishing our forces at Ticonderoga with
provision.

The Provincial Convention of this Province are now
sitting, but have not got through the business of examining
certificates, &tc. ; we have not therefore as yet laid our ap-
-pointment before them. We have had a personal con-
ference with Mr. Fierce, an eminent English merchant of
Montreal, express to the Continental Congress, with intel-
ligence of a most interesting nature. He informs us that
all the French officers of Canada are now in actual pay
under General Carleton. That St. Luke le Cornc, who
was Superintendent of all the Indians in Canada while it
was in the hands of the French, and is father-in-law of Mr.
Campbell, who is Superintendent under His Majesty, has
sent belts to Northern Tribes, as far up as the Falls of
St. Mary and Michilimackinack, to engage them to take
up arms against the New-England Colonies, but the event
of that embassy is not yet known. That a similar appli-
cation has been made to the tribes nearer to the frontiers
of the English settlements, but with little success, as not
more than forty Indians could be found that would engage
in the measures ; that the plan of operations in Canada is
to procure the savages to join with the Canadians in hos-
tilities against the rebels of New-England.

Mr. Pierce gives it as his opinion that the Canadians,
viz : the plebeians, will not, but with the utmost reluctance,
engage against the Colonists, but that the nobles are our
bitter enemies. He also says that General Carleton was
expected at Montreal in a day or two after he left that
place, which was the eleventh May instant, and that he was
■^to take up his residence there for this summer.

We are now about to take up lodgings in the heart of
the City, where we shall have an opportunity of conversing
with the citizens, and learn their true spirit. The Provin-
cial Convention of New- Jersey meet this day ; we propose
to wait on them some time this week.

We can at present give you no just account of the state
of the cause of liberty in this City, but hope, from the little
information we have already had, that there will not be so
general a defection as we apprehended.

We are, with due respect, your most obedient servants,

Nathaniel Wales, Jr.,
Thaddeus Burr,
Pierpoint Edwards.

To the Honourable William Williams, Esq., Speaker of
the House of Assembly, Connecticut.

extract of a letter from ticonderoga to a gen-
tleman in hautforo, CONN., dated may 23, 1775.
I shall endeavour to give you a very concise journal of
matters here since the twelfth instant.

May 1 1 . — We set sail from Skenesborough in a schooner
belonging to Major Skene, which we christened Liberty.

Sunday 13. — Arrived at Ticonderoga, from whence,
after some preparations, we set sail for Crown Point.

Monday 14. — Contrary winds retarded our voyage, and
the day drew to a close when we anchored at Crown
Point.

Tuesday 15. — Contrary winds. Colonel Arnold, with
thirty men, took the boat and proceeded on for St. John's,
leaving to Captain Sloan the command of the vessel with
the sailors, and to me the command of the soldiers on board.
About twelve o'clock, while beating down, we espied a
boat ; sent out our coxswain to bring her in. It proved
to be the French post from Montreal, with Ensign Mo-
land on board. We examined the mail, and among other
things, found an exact list of all the regular Troops in the
Northern Department, amounting to upwards of seven hun-
dred.

Wednesday 16. — A fair gale. We overtook Colonel Ar-
nold in the boat, took him on board, and at night arrived
within thirty miles of St* John's, when the wind fell and
the vessel was becalmed. We immediately armed our two
boats, manned them with thirty-five men, and determined,
by dint of rowing, to fetch St. John's, and take the place
and the King's sloop hy surprise at break of day.

Thursday 17. — After rowing hard all night, we arrived
within half a mile of the place at sunrise, sent a man to
bring us information, and in a small creek, infested with
numberless swarms of gnats and musquetoes, waited with
impatience for his return. The man returning, informed
us they were unapprised of our coming, though they had
heard of the taking of Ticonderoga and Crown Point. We
directly pushed for shore, and landed at about sixty rods
distance from the barracks; the men had their arms, but
upon our briskly marching up in their faces, they retired
within the barracks, left their arms, and resigned themselves
into our hands. We took fourteen prisoners, fourteen stands
of arms, and some small stores. We also took the King's
sloop, two fine brass field-pieces, and four boats. We de-
stroyed five boats more, lest they should be made use of
against us. Just at the completion of our business, a fine
gale arose from the north ; we directly hoisted sail, and re-
turned in triumph. About six miles from St. John's, we
met Colonel Allen with four boats and ninety men, who de-
termined to proceed and maintain the ground. This scheme
Colonel Arnold thought impracticable, as Montreal was
near, with plenty of men, and every necessary for war.
Nevertheless, Colonel Allen proceeded and encamped on
the opposite side of the lake, or river, as it is there called ;
the next morning he was attacked by two hundred Regulars,
and obliged to decamp and retreat.

Friday 18. — Returned again to Crown Point, from thence
to Ticonderoga.

Saturday 19. — Encamped at Ticonderoga. Since that
time nothing material has happened. It is Colonel Arnold's
present design that the Sloop Enterprise, as she is called,
and the Schooner Liberty, shall cruise on the Lake, and
defend our frontiers, till men, provisions, and ammunition
are furnished to carry on the war.

NEW.JERSEY PROVINCIAL CONGRESS.

Extracts from the Journal of Proceedings of the Provin-
cial Congress of New- Jersey, held at Trenton on the
23d o/ May, 1775.
List of Deputies who attended :

Bergen. — John Fell, John Demurest, Hendrick Kuypcr,
Abruham Van Boskirk, Edo Merselius.

Essex. — Henry Garritse, Michael Vreeland, Robert
Drummond, John Berry, William P. Smith, John
Stites, John Chetwood, Abraham Clark, Elias Boudi-
not, Isaac Ogden, Philip Van Cortlandt, Bethuel
Pcirsrm, Caleb Camp.

Middlesex. — Nathaniel Heard, William Smith, John
Dunn, John Lloyd, Azariah Dunham, John Schur-
man, John Wetherill, David Williamson, Jonathan
Sergeant, Jonathan Baldwin. Jonathan Deare.

Morris. — William Winds, William De Hart, Jonathan
Stiles, Peter Dickerson, Jacob Drake, EUis Cook,
Silas Condit.

Somerset. — Hendrick Fisher, John Boy, Peter Schenck,
Abraham Van Neste, Enos Kclsey, Jonathan D. Ser-
geant, Frederick Frelinghuysen, William Paterson.

Sussex. — Archibald Stewart, Edward Dumont, William
Maxwell, Ephraim Martin.

Monmouth. — Edward Taylor, Joseph Saltar, Robert

687

NEW-JERSEY PROVINCIAL CONGRESS, MAY, 1775.

GS8

Montgomery, John Holmes, John Covenhoven, Daniel
Htnarickson, Sir/tolas Van Brunt.

Hunterdon. — .Samuel Tucker, John Mi helm, John
Hart, John Stout, Jasper Smith, Thomas Lowry,
Charles Stewart, Daniel Hunt, Ralph Hart, Jacob
Jennings, Richard Stevens, John Stephens, Junior,
Thomas Stout, Thomas Jones, John Basset.

Burlington. — Joseph Borden, Isaac Pearson, Colin
Campbell, Joseph Read, John Pope.

Gloucester. — John Cooper, Elijah Clark, John Sparks.

Cumberland. — Samuel Fithian, Jonathan Elmer, Tho-
mas Euring.

Salem. — Andrew Sinnickson, Robert Johnson, Samuel
Dick, Jacob Scoggin, James James.

Cape-May. — Jesse Hand.

Tuesday, May 23, 1775.

The Provincial Congress having been appointed to con-
vene this day at Trenton, a large number of the Deputies
accordingly assembled ; and the day was spent in examin-
ing and comparing the Certificates of election of the seve-
ral Members present.

Wednesday, May 24, 1775.

The Congress proceeded to the choice of a President,
when Hendrick Fisher, Esquire, was duly elected ; Jona-
than D. Sergeant, Esquire, was chosen Secretary, and
William Pattrson, Esquire, and Mr. Frederick Freling-
huysen, his Assistants.

Inasmuch as the business on which this Congress are
now assembled, and is likely to engage their deliberations,
appears to be of the highest moment, and may, in the
event, affect the lives and properties, the religion and liber-
ties of their constituents, and of their remotest posterity, it
unquestionably becomes the representative body of a Chris-
tian community to look up to that all-powerful Being, by
whose providence all human events are guided, humbly
imploring his divine favour, in presiding over and directing
their present councils towards the re-establishment of order
and harmony between Great Britain and her distressed
Colonies ; and that he would be graciously pleased to suc-
ceed the measures that may be devised as most conducive
to these desirable ends : It is, therefore,

Ordered, That the President do wait upon the Minis-
ters of the Gospel in this Town, and, in behalf of this
Congress, request their alternate attendance and service
every morning at eight o'clock, during the session, in order
that the business of the day may be opened with prayer
for the above purposes.

The President opened to the Congress the important
occasion of their meeting ; recommended the utmost de-
liberation in determining on the measures to be pursued in
defending those inestimable rights and privileges to which,
by our happy Constitution, the inhabitants of this Province
are justly entitled ; and that due care might be taken to
support the established civil authority (so far as might con-
sist with the preservation of their fundamental liberties)
for the maintenance of good order and the undisturbed ad-
ministration of justice.

The Congress then took into consideration the present
unhappy contest between Great Britain and these Colo-
nies, which they determined to be of such a nature, and
had arrived to such a crisis, that this Convention had be-
come absolutely necessary, in order to provide such ways
and means for the security of the Province, as the exigen-
cies of the times require ; and, at the same time, declared
that they had assembled with the profoundest veneration
for the person and family of His sacred Majesty George
the Third, firmly professing all due allegiance to his right-
ful authority and Government.

Whereas a majority of the several legislative Represent-
atives of this Colony, in General Assembly convened at
Perth-Amboy, in January last, was instructed and author-
ized by their constituents to elect and appoint Deputies to
represent this Province in the Continental Congress now
sitting in the City of Philadelphia : And whereas the said
General Assembly accordingly did elect and appoint Ste-
phen Crane, James Kinsey, William Livingston, John De
Hart, and Richard Smith, Esquires, for that purpose :
And whereas some of the Counties of this Colony omitted

so to instruct and authorize their said legislative Represent-
atives, who, notwithstanding, cordially joined in the said
election and appointment : This Congress do, therefore,
heartily approve of the said Stephen Crave, James Kinsey,
William Livingston, John De Hart, and Richard Smith,
as Representatives of this Province in the said Continental
Congress ; and do also sincerely thank the House of As-
sembly for the laudable regard they have shown for the
rights and liberties of the good people of this Province, in
timely adopting the Continental Association, and resolving
in favour of the Resolutions and Proceedings of the late
Continental Congress.

And it is unanimously agreed and Resolved, That it will
be most eligible for the inhabitants of each respective
County in this Colony, whenever a Continental Congress
shall be again necessary, to appoint and empower Depu-
ties to meet in Provincial Congress, for the purpose of
electing Delegates to represent this Province in such Con-
tinental Congress.

Ordered, That all Votes be taken from the Counties
respectively, so that the Vote of each County be taken as
one.

The Congress having considered the application of about
two hundred of the inhabitants of the Township of Shrews-
bury, in the County of Monmouth, calling themselves As-
sociators of the said Township, do unanimously advise that
the persons appointed by the said present Associators as
their Committee, do immediately advertise a meeting of
the inhabitants of the said Township of Shrewsbury, in
order to choose a Committee of Observation for the said
Township, and adopt the Association recommended by the
Continental Congress ; and after such choice and adoption,
to elect Deputies, one or more, to represent them in this
Congress. And that the persons who shall be so elected,
by a majority of the inhabitants attending the said meeting
of the Township, be received as members of this Congress.
And in case of the refusal or neglect of the Township so to
do, then this Congress do advise the said Committee of the
present Associators to send a Deputy or Deputies for them-
selves to this Congress; and do direct the said Committee
to make and certify their report to this Congress of what
shall have been done in this behalf.

Thursday, May 25, 1775.

Samuel Tucker, Esquire, was elected Vice-President, by
a plurality of votes.

The Congress resumed the consideration of a written
Message to the Continental Congress, which, after certain
amendments, was approved and ordered to be entered, and
a copy to be made and signed by the President ; which
Message is in the words following, viz :

In Provincial Congress of New -Jersey, }
Trenton, May 25, 1775. \

Gentlemen : In the present very alarming crisis, we
have been appointed by the several Counties of this Prov-
ince as their Deputies, to meet in Provincial Congress.

We are accordingly now convened in this place, with
dispositions the most heartily to concur, to the utmost of
our abilities, in the common cause of America. Yet we
think it not advisable to enter into any measures of conse-
quence, until some general plan may be agreed upon and
recommended by you.

In this first instance of such Assembly in the Colony,
without any precedent among ourselves to direct us, and,
at the same time, anxiously concerned to make our Pro-
vincial measures consistent with that plan which may be
devised and recommended by the Continental Congress,
we have judged it necessary to address ourselves to you,
for such advice and assistance as you, in your wisdom, may
think proper to favour us with. For this purpose we have
deputed two of our members, William P. Smith and Eiias
Boudinot, Esquires, the bearers hereof, whom we recom-
mend to the Congress, requesting you will furnish us, by
them, with such directions concerning the line of conduct
in which we ought to act, as will prevent any measures we
may adopt from marring or obstructing the general views
of the Congress, or disappointing your expectations.
Signed by order:

Hendrick Fisher, President.

To the Members of the Continental Congress.

689

NEW-JERSEY PROVINCIAL CONGRESS, MAY, 1775.

690

Friday, May 26, 1775.

The Continental Congress having resolved unanimous-
ly, " That all exportations to Qucbeck, Nova-Scotia, the
Island of >SV. John's, Newfoundland, Georgia, (except the
Parish of St. John's) and to East and West Florida, im-
mediately cease; and that no Provisions of any kind, or
other necessaries, be furnished to the British Fisheries on
the American coasts, until it be otherwise determined by
the Congress:"

Resolved unanimously, That this Congress do earnestly
recommend to the good people of this Province, that they
do most religiously adhere to the said Resolution ; and that
the Secretary do publish this Resolve in one or more of the
publick Newspapers.

The Committee appointed for opening a correspondence
with the Provincial Congress of Neiv-York, reported a
draught of a Letter for that purpose ; which was read, ap-
proved, and ordered to be entered, and a copy to be made
out and signed by the President ; which Letter was in the
words following, viz :

Gentlemen : We, the Deputies appointed by the in-
habitants of New-Jersey to meet in Provincial Congress,
are now convened here, for the purpose of pursuing such
measures as may be thought most expedient in the present
unhappy situation to which the Colonies are reduced, and
which the peculiar exigencies of the times may require.
As nothing can tend more to ensure success to the steps
which may, at this critical juncture, be adopted by the
several Provinces, than a uniform plan of conduct, we con-
ceived it necessary to look up to the Continental Congress
for their advice and direction, which we have accordingly
applied for, and hope soon to receive. We also think it of
consequence that a correspondence should be established
with you and our other sister Colonies, and a free commu-
nication be had, from time to time, of such measures as may
be judged most conducive to the interest of the common
cause ; and we request to be favoured with such intelli-
gence as may occur to you worthy of attention, and of
which our situation may probably deprive us.

Monday, May 29, 1775.

Pierpoint Edwards, Esquire, one of a Committee from
the Assembly of Connecticut to this Congress, attended
with certain propositions and instructions, which were re-
ceived and read, and ordered to be referred for further
consideration.

Messrs. Daniel Hendrickson and Nicholas Van Brunt,
from the Township of Shrewsbury, in the County of Mon-
mouth, produced a certificate that the said Township had
chosen a Committee of Observation pursuant to the direc-
tions of the Continental Congress, and that they had elected
these gentlemen as Deputies to represent the said Town-
ship in this Congress. The said certi6cate was allowed
and filed.

Tuesday, May 30, 1775.

William P. Smith and Elias Boudinot, Esquires, the
Committee sent by this Congress with a Message to the
Continental Congress, returned with a written Answer, im-
porting that the Congress were not as yet prepared to give
any advice on the state of this Province, and promising the
same as soon as they should be prepared.

Jonathan D. Sergeant, Esquire, having resigned his
office of Secretary to this Congress, William Paterson,
Esquire, was chosen Secretary, and Mr. Frederick Fre-
Unghuysen Deputy Secretary.

The Congress received a Letter from the Provincial
Congress of New- York, in answer to theirs of the 26th
instant, importing their readiness to establish a correspond-
ence with us, and a free communication of such measures
as may from time to time be judged conducive to promote
the common cause.

Wednesday, May 31, 1775.

The Petition of Robert Murray and John Murray, set-
ting forth their sincere contrition for violating the Conti-
nental Association, and their determined resolution for the
future strictly to observe the same, &c, was read, and or-
dered a second reading.

The Petition of Robert and John Murray was read a
Fourth Series. — Vol. ii. 44

second time ; and, being now considered, it was unani-
mously resolved, that the petitioners, having made the best
satisfaction in their power for their former breach of the
General Continental Agreement, and expressed their reso-
lution strictly to adhere to the same in future, ought to be
restored to the favourable regard of their Country ; and
the said Robert and John Murray are accordingly restored
to all the civil and commercial privileges which they here-
tofore enjoyed in this Province.

Afternoon.

The Congress resumed the consideration of the form
of an Association, which was reported in the morning ;
and, after certain amendments, approved the same, and or-
dered it to be entered, which is in the words following :

" We, the subscribers, freeholders and inhabitants of the

Township of , in the County of , and

Province of New- Jersey , having long viewed with concern
the avowed design of the Ministry of Great Britain to
raise a revenue in America; being deeply affected with
the cruel hostilities already commenced in the Massachu-
setts-Bay for carrying that arbitrary design into execution ;
convinced that the preservation of the rights and privileges
of America depends, under God, on the firm union of its
inhabitants, do, with hearts abhorring slavery, and ardently
wishing for a reconciliation with our Parent State, on con-
stitutional principles, solemnly associate and resolve, under
the sacred ties of virtue, honour, and love to our Country,
that we will personally, and as far as our influence extends,
endeavour to support and carry into execution whatever
measures may be recommended by the Continental and
our Provincial Congresses, for defending our Constitution,
and preserving the same inviolate.

" We do also further associate and agree, as far as shall
be consistent with the measures adopted for the preserva-
tion of American freedom, to support the Magistrates and
other civil officers in the execution of their duty, agreeable
to the laws of this Colony ; and to observe the directions of
our Committee, acting according to the Resolutions of the
aforesaid Continental and Provincial Congresses ; firmly
determined, by all means in our power, to guard against
those disorders and confusions to which the peculiar cir-
cumstances of the times may expose us."

Resolved, That copies of the above Association be im-
mediately sent to the Committees of Observation or Cor-
respondence in the several Counties in this Province, which
have not already associated in a similar manner, in order
that the same may be signed by the several inhabitants,
accompanied with the following Letter, to be signed by the
President :

Gentlemen : Anxiously desirous to promote, as far as
possible, an union among the inhabitants of this Colony,
we have thought proper to recommend to them the en-
closed Association, which we desire may be immediately
signed by the good people of your Township ; that at a
time when our most valuable privileges are invaded, we
may, in a uniform manner, make our defence, and prevent
the evils to which our unhappy situation exposes us.

Thursday, June 1, 1775.

The Committee appointed to prepare the draught of an
answer to Pierpoint Edwards, Esquire, reported the same,
which was read, approved, and ordered to be entered, and
a copy thereof to be delivered, signed by the President;
which is in the words following :

In Provincial Congress, New-Jersey, )
June 1, 1775. J

Pierpoint Edwards, Esquire, from the Colony of Con-
necticut, having laid before this Congress sundry papers,
containing, among other things, the appointment of a Com-
mittee by the House of Representatives of said Colony,
for the purpose of procuring intelligence of the true state
of this Province, giving information of the state of the said
Colony of Connecticut, and for cultivating harmony and
good correspondence with this Province ; and this Congress
having read and considered the same, take this method of
expressing their highest satisfaction with the spirited con-
duct and proceedings of the said Colony of Connecticut,
and do hereby request the said Mr. Edwards to assure the
Honourable House of Representatives of that Colony, that

691

NEW-JERSEY PROVINCIAL CONGRESS, MAY, 1775.

692

the Province of Xew-Jerscy will most heartily co-operate
with them in the general measures now pursuing for the
common defence of the rights of America, and will, with
great pleasure, cultivate that harmony and good correspond-
ence with our brethren of Connecticut, which they so earn-
estly desire ; that this Congress are now engaged in set-
tling a plan for putting the Province in the hest state of
defence in their power, and are ready to pursue such other
methods and directions as shall be recommended to them
by the Continental Congress, from whom they are daily
expecting advice for this purpose ; and whenever any par-
ticular measure shall be finally settled and concluded upon
by this Province, the House of Representatives of Con-
necticut shall have the earliest intelligence.

Friday, June 2, 1775.

A Letter from Pierpoint Edwards, Esquire, requesting
copies of such of the Resolves and Proceedings of this
Congress as respected the regulation of the Militia, the
raising of men and money, &.c, for the common defence
of America, was received and read ; to which the following
answer was returned, viz :

Sib: The Congress received your polite letter of this
morning, and are sorry that the Militia Bill and other mat-
ters now before them are not so far completed that they
can comply with your request, in giving you extracts from
them to take with you to the Honourable House of As-
sembly of the Colony of Connecticut. You may, how-
ever, be assured, that when the Congress rises, a copy of
such proceedings as shall be necessary to be communicated,
will be transmitted to the Speaker of your Honourable
House. We are, 8tc.

Saturday, June 3, 1775, P. M.
The draught of a plan for regulating the Militia of this
Colony, which was reported in the morning, was read
a second time ; and, after sundry amendments, was ap-
proved, and ordered to be entered ; which is in the words
following :

The Congress, taking into consideration the cruel and
arbitrary measures adopted and pursued by the British
Parliament and present Ministry for the purpose of sub-
jugating the American Colonies to the most abject servi-
tude ; and being apprehensive that all pacifick measures for
the redress of our grievances will prove ineffectual, do
think it highly necessary that the inhabitants of this Prov-
ince be forthwith properly armed and disciplined for de-
fending the cause of American freedom. And further
considering that, to answer this desirable end, it is requisite
that such persons be entrusted with the command of the
Militia as can be confided in by the people, and are truly
zealous in support of our just rights and privileges, do re-
commend and advise that the good people of this Province
henceforward strictly observe the following Rules and
Regulations, until this Congress shall make further order
therein :

1st. That one or more Companies, as the case may re-
quire, be immediately formed in each Township or Corpo-
ration ; and, to this end, that the several Committees in this
Province do, as soon as may be, acquaint themselves with
the number of male inhabitants in their respective Districts,
from the age of sixteen to fifty, who are capable of bearing
arms, and thereupon form them into companies, consisting,
as near as may be, of eighty men each ; which companies
so formed shall, each by itself, assemble and choose, by
plurality of voices, four persons from among themselves, of
sufficient substance and capacity, for its officers, namely,
one Captain, two Lieutenants, and an Ensign.

2d. That the officers so chosen appoint for their respect-
ive companies fit persons to be sergeants, corporals, and
drummers.

3d. That as soon as the companies are so formed, the
officers of such a number of companies as shall by them
be judged proper to form a Regiment, do assemble and
choose one Colonel, one Lieutenant-Colonel, a Major, and
an Adjutant, for each Regiment.

4th. That each Captain, as soon as elected, furnish him-
self with a Muster-Roll, after the form following, to be
signed by every person under his command, viz :

" We, the subscribers, do voluntarily enlist ourselves in

the company of , in the Township of ,

in the County of , under the command of Colo-
nel , (if a Colonel shall be chosen at t lie time of

subscribing,) and do promise to obey our officers in such ser-
vice as they shall appoint us, agreeable to the rules and or-
ders of the Provincial Congress. Witness our hands, &ic."

5th. That the persons so enlisted meet under the direc-
tion of their officers, in such manner, and at such times and
places, as shall by them be judged necessary for their im-
provement in military discipline ; and that each whole com-
pany do assemble at least once a month for the same pur-
pose ; and that a general muster or review of the whole
Regiment be had as often, and at such times, as the Field
Officers shall appoint.

6th. That each person enlisted be equipped as soon as
possible with arms and ammunition, in such manner as by
the Field Officers of such Regiment shall be directed.

7th. That due obedience be paid to the officers, and
strict attention observed in learning the military exercise.

8th. That where Companies and Regiments are already
formed, and officers chosen and appointed, the same be
continued, provided that they do adopt such further rules
and orders respecting the signing of a muster-roll, days of
meeting and reviews, as are hereinbefore contained ; and
that where part only of the officers are already appointed
and chosen, they do proceed to elect such other officers as
remain yet to be chosen, in conformity to the rules herein
contained.

The Congress taking into consideration the spirited ex-
ertions of the Counties of Morris, Sussex, and Somerset,
in raising Minute-Men, do approve of and thank them for
their zeal in the common cause, and will take the same into
further consideration at their next meeting.

The draught of an Ordinance for raising a sum of money
for the purpose therein mentioned, after sundry amend-
ments, was approved, and ordered to be entered, in the
words following:

Whereas it has become absolutely necessary, in the pre-
sent dangerous and extraordinary state of publick affairs,
in which the usual resources of Government appear to be
insufficient for the safety of the people, and in which the
good people of this Province have therefore thought proper
to choose Deputies in this present Congress, that a fund be
provided for the use of the Province, we, the said Depu-
ties, being persuaded that every inhabitant is willing and
desirous to contribute his proportion of money for so im-
portant a purpose, do, pursuant to the powers entrusted to
us by the people, Resolve and direct, that the sum of Ten
Thousand Pounds, proclamation money, be immediately
apportioned and raised for the use aforesaid, the same to be
apportioned, laid out and disposed of, in such manner as
hereinafter is directed.

2. And it is resolved and directed, That the part and
proportion of the said sum to be raised in the County of
Bergen be six hundred and sixty-four Pounds eight Shil-
lings ; and that the part and proportion of Essex be seven
hundred and forty-two Pounds eighteen Shillings ; and that
the part and proportion of Middlesex be eight hundred and
seventy-two Pounds six Shillings and eight Pence ; and
that the part or proportion of Somerset be nine hundred
and four Pounds two Shillings ; and that the part or pro-
portion of Monmouth be one thousand and sixty-nine
Pounds two Shillings and eight Pence ; and that the part
or proportion of Morris be seven hundred and twenty-three
Pounds eight Shillings ; and that the part or proportion of
Sussex be five hundred and ninety-three Pounds five Shil-
lings and four Pence ; and that the part or proportion of
Hunterdon be one thousand three hundred and sixty-three
Pounds sixteen Shillings and eight Pence ; and that the
part or proportion of Burlington be one thousand and sev-
enty-one Pounds thirteen Shillings and four Pence ; and
that the part or proportion of Gloucester be seven hundred
and sixty-three Pounds two Shillings and eight Pence ;
and that the part or proportion of Salem be six hundred
and seventy-nine Pounds twelve Shillings ; and that the
part or proportion of Cumberland be three hundred and
eighty-five Pounds six Shillings and eight Pence ; and that
the part or proportion of Cape-May be one hundred and
sixty-six Pounds eighteen Shillings.

3, And, in order that the said sum may be duty raised,

693

CORRESPONDENCE, PROCEEDINGS, fcc, MAY, 1775.

694

It is further resolved and directed, That the same be
apportioned by persons hereafter to be appointed by the
Committees of the several Townships in this Colony, in
which apportionment all certainties shall be rated one-fifth
less than the sums they are respectively directed to be rated
at by the fourth section of an Act of the General Assembly
of this Colony, made and passed in the tenth year of the
reign of his present Majesty, entitled " An Act to settle the
quotas of the several Counties in this Colony for the levying
Taxes ;" and that all lands, horses, cattle, and other taxables,
be valued as in the above-mentioned Act is directed ; which
said apportionment shall be made and delivered to the per-
sons to be appointed by the several Committees in each
Township, at or before the first day of August next ensuing.

And it is further resolved and directed, That the per-
sons who shall be appointed for apportioning the same as
aforesaid in the several Townships of each County, to that
end do meet together on the first Monday in July next, at
such place as by the laws of this Colony have been ap-
pointed for the Assessors to meet in for the like purpose ;
and then and there settle and divide to each Township with-
in their County its quota of the sum hereinbefore directed
to be raised in the County.

4. And it is further resolved and directed, That the
several Committees in each Township of the Colony shall
appoint fit persons to collect the same, who, upon receiving
the said apportionment, shall immediately collect and pay
the same to such person or persons as the several Commit-
tees in each County may hereafter appoint ; or, where
there is no County Committee, to such person or persons
as the several Township Committees shall jointly appoint.

5. And it is further resolved and directed, That after
the part or proportion of each County shall have been ap-
portioned and received by the County Collector, he shall
and do pay the same, or any part or parts thereof, to the
County Committee, or to their order, signed by their Chair-
man, by their vote, the same to be disposed of by them in
such manner as they in their discretion shall think most
proper to answer the said exigencies.

Ordered, That Mr. Fisher, Mr. Tucker, Mr. Daniel
Hunt, Mr. Frelinghuysen, Mr. I. Pearson, Mr. Dunham,
Mr. Schurman, Mr. John Hart, Mr. Borden, Mr. Deare,
Mr. Baldwin, Mr. Schenck, Mr. Ralph Hart, and Mr.
Heard, or any three of them, in conjunction with the Presi-
dent or Vice-President, be a Committee of Correspond-
ence, with power to convene this Congress.

BENEDICT ARNOLD TO THE COMMITTEE OF SAFETY AT
CAMBRIDGE.
(Per express.) Crown Point, May 23, 1775.

Gentlemen: My last was of the 19th instant, by Cap-
tain Jonathan Brown. 1 then advised you of my taking
possession of the King's sloop, Stc. ; and that, on the
18th instant, on my return from St. John's, Colonel E.
Allen, with about eighty or one hundred men, passed me
with intention of making a stand at St. John's; and not
being able to dissuade him from so rash a purpose, I sup-
plied them with provisions, Stc. Yesterday he arrived at
Ticonderoga, with his party, and says that on the evening
of the 18th instant he arrived with his party at St. John's,
and hearing of a detachment of men on the road from
Mortreal, laid in ambush for them ; but his people being
so much fatigued, (when the party were about one mile
distant,) thought proper to retreat, and crossed the lake at
St. John's, where they continued the night. At dawn next
day they were, when asleep, saluted with a discharge of
grape-shot from six field-pieces, and a discharge of small
arms from about two hundred Regulars. They made a
precipitate retreat, and left behind them three men. Im-
mediately on this advice I proceeded here with the sloop
and schooner, well armed as possible under our circum-
stances, and eighty men, which, with the party here before,
makes near one hundred and fifty men, with whom I am
determined to make a stand here to secure the cannon, it
being impossible to remove them at present. I am in
hourly expectation of two or three hundred men more ;
most of those here are enlisted. Colonel Allen's men are
in general gone home.

As the Regulars have good information of our strength
and movements, 1 am apprehensive of their paying us a
visit, provided they can get batteaus from Montreal to St.
John's. I shall make every possible preparation to give
them a warm reception. I have commissioned Captain
John Sloan in the sloop, and Captain Isaac Mathues in the
schooner. I have wrote to New- York for a number of
gunners and seamen to man the two vessels, being in great
want of them. At present obliged to stay on board one of
them myself.

As soon as a sufficient number of men arrives, I shall
lose no time in carrying your orders into execution in re-
gard to the cannon, &c. This morning, very luckily, an
escort of provisions (five barrels of pork and thirty barrels
of flour) arrived here as a present from Albany, under the
care of Captain Elisha Phelps. The last barrel of our
pork being abroach, I have ordered fifty barrels of pork
and one hundred of flour from Albany, which I expect
soon ; prior to which I bought fifteen oxen and thirty bar-
rels of flour, which is all the provisions purchased as yet.
The people who have enlisted are promised the same
bounty as is given in the Massachusetts-Bay. A sum of
money will be requisite to carry matters into execution. I

have one hundred and sixty Pounds, found in the sloop ;
but as it was the Captain's property, do not choose to make
use of it at present. I have sent to Albany repeatedly for
powder, and can get none ; have only one hundred and fifty
pounds here, which I brought from Concord. I beg you
will order a quantity to be forwarded here immediately. I
have wrote to Connecticut, but can have no dependance
from that quarter, as it is very scarce there.

I hope some gentleman will soon be appointed in my
room here, who is better able to serve the publick than I
am. Interim, I am, gentlemen, your most obedient hum-
ble servant, Benedict Arnold.

To the Committee of Safety at Cambridge.

P. S. Since writing the above, one of Colonel Allen's
party, who was taken prisoner at St. John's, has made his
escape, and says, that on the 19th instant there were four
hundred Regulars at St. John's, who expected to be joined
by more men, and were making all possible preparation to
cross the lake and retake Crown Point and Ticonderoga.
I have sent expresses to Fort George and Skenesborough,
to rally the Country. You may depend, gentlemen, these
places will not be given up unless we are overpowered by
numbers, or deserted by Providence, which has hitherto
supported us.

MASSACHUSETTS COMMITTEE OF SAFETY TO THE PROVIN-
CIAL CONGRESS.

In Committee of Safety, Cambridge, )
May 23, 1775. J

Gentlemen : There appears to be some considerable
difficulty in the adjustment of General Ward's Regiment,
so far as it respects the first that may have command under
him in his Regiment. The circumstances we would beg
leave to lay before your Honours : Colonel Joseph Hen-
shaw came down Lieutenant-Colonel of a Minute Regi-
ment, under General Ward, and still expects to hold his
command under General Ward in said Regiment, upon the
present establishment, as he was early applied to by the
Committee for that purpose; Colonel Jonathan Ward
came down Lieutenant-Colonel under General Ward, ot
the Standing Militia, and likewise expects to hold his com-
mand under General Ward, in the present establishment,
having given out enlisting orders to the Captains in said
Regiment. Seven Captains in said Regiment desire that
Colonel Ward may be appointed, as appears by a cer-
tificate under their hands. This Committee have applied
to General Ward to determine which of said Colonels
should have the command, but he declines to act in the
affair. We therefore thought it proper to make this short
representation to your Honours, that you might, in your
wisdom, put a speedy end to said controversy.

William Cooper, Secretary.

To the Hon. Provincial Congress in Watertown.

695

CORRESPONDENCE, PROCEEDINGS, &c, MAY, 1775.

G96

PETITION OF JOHN MERRILL.

To the Honourable Provincial Congress now at Water-
town : The Petition of the subscriber humbly shewcth :
That there is now at Toptham a company of able-bodied
men, the number about sixty, who have mostly good effect-
ual fire-arms, but they have very little, or most of them no
powder, on which account they are supposed to be in
danger from the Indians, as well as other ways ; this is
therefore to pray your Honours to give some directions
where may be had about fifty or sixty pounds of powder,
for which the cash shall be paid by your very humble ser-
vant, John Merrill.

Watcrtown, May 23, 1775.

SELECTMEN OE WALTHAM TO THE COMMITTEE OF SAFETY
AT CAMBRIDGE.

Waltham, May 23, 1775.
Gentlemen : In obedience to a letter we received from
you with respect to Mr. Millicant, we have made particular
inquiry into Mrs. Millicant' s passing to and repassing from
Boston, and after the most critical inquiry, we find Mrs.
Millicant went only once to Boston, to bring her little chil-
dren out of Boston, which were at Mrs. Newman's, before
the engagement ; and from a particular inquiry into that
affair, are persuaded she conveyed no intelligence to our
enemies, that can be any ways detrimental to the important
cause in which we are engaged ; and from Mr. Millicant's
known integrity, uprightness, and good conduct, since he
has been with us, we cannot but suppose the information
you received of Mr. Millicant's conveying intelligence to
our enemies, was from a person either prejudiced against,
or entirely unknown to him, and so suspected him to be
our enemy, because he is on the half-pay list. However,
we shall be on the watch, and very careful that no intelli-
gence be conveyed to our enemies by Mr. Millicant, or
any other person in this Town. We are, gentlemen, with
due deference, your humble and obedient servants,

Jonas Dix, "1
Nath. Bridge, I Selectmen of
Josiah Brown, [ Waltham.
John Clark, J

TEWKESBURY (MASS.) COMMITTEE OF INSPECTION.

Tewkesbury, May 23, 1775.

Whereas Mr. Timothy Brown, of this Town, has been
suspected of being an enemy to the liberties of America :
We, the Committee of Inspection of said Tewkesbury, hav-
ing heretofore taken the matter under our inspection, and
had the said Brown upon examination before us, and found
no proof of the late charges laid against him, we set up
notifications desiring any person that had any thing to offer
by way of evidence against the said Brown's character, to
offer it to us ; and again having met this day upon adjourn-
ment, and had the said Brown again upon examination,
and still no further evidence against the said Brown appears,
but he declares himself a friend to the liberties of his Coun-
try, and that he will use the utmost of his endeavours to
defend the same; therefore we would inform the publick,
that unless some absolute proof be brought against him,
the said Brown ought not to be treated as an enemy, but
as a friend to our just rights and liberties.

Isaac Kitteridge, Jacob Shed,
Nathaniel Heywood, Eldad Worcester,
David Bayley, Ezra Kendall,

Eb'zer Whittemore,

Committee of Inspection for Tewkesbury.

MEW-HAMPSH1RF. CONGRESS TO JOHN SULLIVAN AND JOHN
LANGDON, ESQUIRES, AT PHILADELPHIA.

Exeter, May 23, 1775.

Gentlemen: Although it is painful to us to have occa-
sion to realize the necessity of deciding by the sword the
present controversy with Great Britain, yet we trust you
will know with satisfaction that, in the fullest representa-
tive body this Province ever had, it was unanimously voted
to raise a body of men for the purposes of general defence.
As we conclude you have been already sufficiently apprised
of the hostile conduct of the Army under General Gage,

we can assure you that the whole Colony seems to be of
one heart and one soul ; so that even those who had been
formerly inactive, are now soberly awake and active. The
blood of their brethren has roused them.

We could have desired to consult a General Congress,
if time had allowed, before we had taken such an important
step as raising a military force. But the case seemed loo
plain to be doubted, and too urgent to be delayed. We
have resolved to raise forthwith two thousand men. How
shall we pay them, you are sensible, must now be one
question.

We trust, as you know the state of the Colony, that
you will enter into the full importance of the question. We
desire you will do your utmost to forward some plan in
which we may be able to discharge our engagements. We
must, gentlemen, press you on tliis article. The little cash
we ever had, is by one means or another almost entirely
drained off. The most are ready to join, and are willing
to expend one half, if they may preserve the other. Yet
we seem to have no method left but borrowing, and we
don't know that we can borrow, unless we issue a proper
currency ourselves, or have a currency on a general plan,
or can borrow in some of the other Colonies.

With regard to what is further necessary to regulate the
general policy of the Colonies, you will find our situation
and views, so far as we have formed any, in our enclosed
letter to the Congress. You may rely upon it that if any
general regulations of the Province are thought necessary
or best, we shall be ready to receive the same, and govern
ourselves accordingly.

Gentlemen, we commit ourselves and you, the honourable
body of which you are members, and the cause of liberty
and justice throughout America and the world, to the all-
directing Mind, and subscribe, with much esteem, your
most obedient servant.

To the Honourable John Sullivan and John Langdon, Es-
quires, Members for this Colony of New-Hampshire in
the Continental Congress.

THE NEW-HAMPSHIRE TO THE CONTINENTAL CONGRESS.
[Received and read before Congress June 2, 1775.]

Exeter, May 23, 1775.

Honourable Gentlemen: British America being be-
trusted to your wisdom, the proposal of those plans, by
which, as by a pole star, it may steer in the tempest occa-
sioned by the arrogant claims, the haughty threats, and
unnatural attacks of the British Ministry, it is reasonable
for you to expect, and for each Colony to choose, that
whatever important step is taken by any of the Colonies,
the consequence of which reaches the whole, you should
receive the earliest authentick intelligence of the measure
itself, together with the facts and motives leading to it, that
it may be either diverted, forwarded, or ripened, so as to
harmonize with whatever extensive plan the great Fountain
of wisdom, and Friend of justice shall inspire the guardians
of our common rights.

Long has America mourned to find those she wishes to
revere, adopting one plan after another to strip her of the
blessings of freedom, deaf to all her pleas for justice.

The counsels of America, united in that illustrious body,
the late Continental Congress, we hoped, that, by denying
ourselves, we should scatter the mists which hid the path
of justice from the eye of Britain; but with pain we have
learned that firmness is insolence, and that the most calm
resolution to be free is treason in the new Ministerial lan-
guage.

In spite of the gathering storm, we yet resolved, if pos-
sible, to avoid the last retreat of the injured — an appeal to
God by the sword ; but at length plain and pressing facts
constrain us to believe that our enemies mean to deny us
every other ; though, to our view, the thought is shaded deep
in horrours.

Not long since the alarm sounded through this Colony,
that the insidious foe, though continually speaking of peace,
had begun a scene of bloodshed and devastation on the
lives and property of our brethren in the Massachusetts.

Listening only to rails of humanity, without waiting for
consultations, with all the speed of common interest and
friendship, we generally run to their aid; but we come to

697

CORRESPONDENCE, PROCEEDINGS, &c, MAY, 1775.

698

be only witnesses, as yet, of the scenes of pillage and of
slaughter, perpetrated by the sons of violence. The enemy
were retreated. Our situation obliged us to return, not to
neglect the cause, but that we might prosecute, by united
and consistent counsels, with steady firmness.

As soon as convenience would allow, being directed by
our brethren of this Colony to act for them in the present
exigence, which seems not to allow time for consulting
America at large, feeling for ourselves, our friends, and our
Country, we have determined to exert our utmost efforts
in defence of the common cause of America, and for the
present have resolved to raise the number of two thousand
men, (including officers,) to be employed as occasion shall
require, under the regulation of this Convention, until we
have the advice of the Continental Congress, to whose
superintendence we choose to submit. We have, in conse-
quence, engaged to provide for the pay of the above number,
until the last day of December next.

We beg leave to suggest that this will, of course, intro-
duce a vast expense. We will not conceal that the circu-
lating cash iu this Province is very small, in but a trifling
proportion, as we suppose, to the necessary demand on this
occasion. We ask the advice and assistance of the Con-
gress with regard to the best method of carrying the above
vote into execution. We desire to have the benefit of
some general plan for bills of credit, or that we may act
with the advice of the Congress in issuing such ourselves;
or that we may be pointed to such other methods as shall
appear just and equal, in apportioning the expense of the
common cause.

Although we ardently wish that, if possible, a connection
may yet be preserved between Great Britain and these
Colonies, founded on the invariable principles of justice,
and the general principles of the British Constitution, yet
we are entirely disposed to respect, and willing to submit
to any plan of further uniting the Colonies, for the purpose
of common security and defence.

We will not conceal that many among us are disposed to
conclude, that the voice of God and Nature, to us, since
the late hostile design and conduct of Great Britain, is, that
we are bound to look to our whole political affairs.

We have not yet largely and fully consulted with one
another on this article, but have only acted with the single
view of the plain necessity of certain steps to be taken, to
secure us from the ruin which the British Ministry have
prepared for us. We trust we shall keep this alone in view
until we hear the united plan of the Colonies in the General
Council, which we pray and trust may be under the influ-
ence of Heaven.

By order of the Convention of the Colony of New-
Hampshire.

I am, gentlemen, your most humble servant,

Matthew Thornton, President.
To the Honourable Members of the Congress now sitting

in the City of Philadelphia.

cause, and at all hazards determined to stand by and sup-
port it, relying on Divine Providence for success.
By order of Convention :

Matthew Thornton, President.
To the Honourable Congress of Massachusetts-Bay.

NEW-HAMPSHIRE CONGRESS TO THE MASSACHUSETTS
CONGRESS.

Province of New-Hampshire, in Provincial Convention, )
Exeter, May 23, 1775. \

Gentlemen: We acknowledge the honour of an inter-
view with your Committee, the Honourable Joseph Gerrish,
Esquire, and Colonel Ebenczer Sawyer, and the intelligence
by them communicated to us ; and, in way of reply, would
inform you, that in consideration of the present alarming
state of the Colonies in general, and your Province in par-
ticular, we have determined to raise, for the common de-
fence and safety, two thousand men, including officers and
those already employed in the publick service, belonging to
this Province ; to be raised and qualified as soon as may be,
and more, if it shall appear to be our proportion, as soon
as a proper estimate can be made. And in respect to such
other matters as your Committee had in commission to us,
we shall take them into our serious consideration ; as they
are matters of so great importance we cannot immediately
determine respecting them, but would wait the advice
and direction of the General Congress, to which we are
about immediately to apply, as we find you have done.
We would beg leave to assure you that the people of this
Province appear to be heartily engaged in the common

COLONEL JOHN FENTON TO THE PROVINCIAL CONGRESS OF
NEW-HAMPSHIRE.

Portsmouth, N. H., May 23, 1775.

Gentlemen : I this moment received your letter of the
twenty-third instant. I do assure you, gentlemen, I men-
tioned the matter respecting the Indians coming down on
our frontiers, in my letter to the people of the County of
Grafton, as a matter of opinion only, nor have I the least
clue or circumstance to guide me in these sentiments but
mere opinion.

I am, gentlemen, your most obedient and very humble
servant, John Fenton.

P. S. I wrote that letter to the people of the County of
Grafton out of absolute friendship and regard to the County.

Portsmouth, April 26, 1775.

To the People of the County of Grafton, from a real
friend, who sincerely wishes their ivell doing:
For God's sake pay the closest attention to the sowing
and planting your lands, and do as much of it as possible,
not only for your own and families' subsistence, but to sup-
ply the wants of your fellow-men down country ; for you
may be assured that every kind of distress, in the provi-
sion way, is coming upon them.

Let nothing induce you to quit your farming business.
Mind no reports ; and do not think of coming down country
to fight. There are enough without you ; therefore your
diligence in farming will much more serve your Country
than coming to assist us. Much depends on the back set-
tlements raising plenty of grain.

I am informed that should the people from the back set-
tlements take up arms, a number of Indians and Canadians
will fall upon them ; but that if they remain quiet they will
not. This I inform you of from the love I bear you, and
give it you as a sincere friend should do.

John Fenton.

Exeter, June 27, 1775.
Colonel Fenton's compliments to the President of the
Congress, requests to know if it will be convenient to be
called before them to-morrow morning ; if so, he begs he
may be informed, as his family are only waiting to know
what is to become of him, before they quit this Province.

In Congress, Exeter, June 30, 1775.

Upon a full hearing of sundry complaints against Colonel
John Fenton :

Voted, That the said Colonel John Fenton is an enemy
to the liberties of America.

July 1, 1775.

Voted, That Captain Josiah Moulton be desired to take
four men and an officer out of Captain Elkins's Company
at Hampton, and convey Colonel John Fenton to Head-
Quarters of the New- Hampshire Forces, and deliver him
to General Nathaniel Folsom, there to be confined till
further orders.

PETITION OF CAPTAIN DELAPLACE.

To the Honourable the General Assembly of the Govern-
our and Company of the English Colony o/Connect-
icut, in New-England, in America, now convened at
Hartford.

The memorial of William Delaplace, a Captain in His
Majesty's Twenty-sixth Regiment, and commandant of the
Fort and Garrison of Ticonderoga, in behalf of himself and
the officers and soldiers under his command, beg leave to
represent our difficult situation to your Honours, and peti-
tion for redress.

Your memorialist would represent, that on the morning
of the tenth of May instant, the Garrison of the Fortress
of Ticonderoga, in the Province of New-York, was sur-
prised by a party of armed men under the command of one

099

CORRESPONDENCE, PROCEEDINGS, he, MAY, LT7S.

700

Ethan Allen, consisting of about one hundred and fifty,
who had taken such measures effectually to surprise the
same, that very Utile resistance could be made, and to wlioni
your memorialists were obliged to surrender as prisoners ;
and overpowered by a superiour force, were disarmed, and
by said Allen ordered immediately lo be sent to Hartford,
in the Colony of Connecticut, where your memorialists now
are detained as prisoners of war, consisting of officers, for-
ty-seven private soldiers of His Majesty's Troops, besides
women and children. That your memorialists being igno-
rant of any crime by them committed, whereby they should
he thus taken and held, also are ignorant by what authority
said Allen thus took them, or that they are thus detained in
a strange country, and at a distance from the post assigned
them ; thus know not in what light they are considered by
your Honours, consequently know not what part to act ;
would therefore ask your Honours' interposition and pro-
tection, and order that they be set at liberty, to return to the
post from whence they were taken, or to join the Regiment
to which they belong ; or if they are considered in the light
of prisoners of war, your Honours would be pleased to sig-
nify the same to them, and by whom they are detained,
and that your Honours would afford us your favour and
protection during the time we shall tarry in this Colony;
and your memorialists shall ever pray.

William Delaplack,
Captain Commandant Ticonderoga Fort.
Hartford, May 24, 1775.

TO THE INHABITANTS OF MASSACHUSETTS-BAY.

In Provincial Congress, Watertown, )
May 24, 1775. \

Friends and Felloiv- Countrymen :

With great satisfaction we bear publick testimony of
your disposition to serve the glorious cause in which Ame-
rica is now engaged, evidenced by your readiness to sup-
ply on the credit of the Colony many necessary articles
for the use of the Army, and in various other ways ; by
which you have given convincing proofs that you are
heartily disposed to maintain the publick liberty. The
cause, we have not the least doubt, if you continue to exert
yourselves in conjunction with our sister Colonies, will
finally prevail.

This Congress have opened a subscription for one hun-
dred thousand Pounds, lawful money, for which the Re-
ceiver-General is directed to issue notes on interest at the
rate of six per cent, per annum, payable in June, 1777 ;
and as it is of the utmost importance that the money be
immediately obtained, that the publick credit may not
suffer, we most earnestly recommend to such of you as
have cash in your hands, which you can spare from the
necessary supplies of your families, that you would lend
the same to the Colony ; by which you will put it in our
power to carry into effect the measures undertaken for the
salvation of the Country.

That the Army should be well supplied with every
article necessary for the most effectual military operations,
you must all be sensible, and that if we should fail herein
it may prove ruinous and destructive to the community,
whose safety (under God) depends upon their vigorous
exertions.

As you have already, in many instances, nobly exerted
yourselves, this Congress have not the smallest doubt but
that you will with great cheerfulness crown all by furnish-
ing as much cash as will be necessary for the good pur-
poses aforementioned ; especially when it is considered
that there are now no ways of improving money in trade,
and that there is the greatest probability the other Colo-
nies will give a ready currency to the notes, which will
render them in one respect at least on a better footing than
any other notes heretofore issued in this Colony.

If you should furnish the money that is now needed
you will perform a meritorious service for your Country,
and prove yourselves sincerely attached to its interests.
But if an undue caution should prevent your doing this
essential service to the Colony, the total loss both of your
liberties and that very property which you by retaining it
affect to save, may be the unhappy consequence ; it being
past all controversy that the destruction of individuals must
be involved in that of the publick.

EXTRACT OF A LETTER FROM THE HON. ENOCH FREEMAN.

Falmouth, May 94, 1775.
You informed me that the last Provincial Congress did
me the honour to choose me one of the Committee of
Safety for the Province. You may acquaint that Com-
mittee that were my health and capacity equal to my in-
clination to serve the publick, I should cheerfully attend
that service without delay ; but at present I cannot possi-
bly go up. Yet if I can be of any service to the common
cause in the mean time, in these exposed parts of the
Country, my utmost endeavours shall not be wanting, and
as soon as I can find myself able, purpose to come up.

It would, perhaps, be convenient for the publick, that
some person or persons here should be appointed, whose
business it should be to execute the orders of the Congress
and Committee of Safety, and to communicate back to
them, from time to time, intelligence and occurrences that
may affect the publick, without the trouble of getting a
quorum of Committee and Selectmen together, who live
at a distance, which often causes great delay ; and my time
is so often taken up in one publick affair and another,
that I am obliged to neglect my own business to my great
damage.

If the Congress should allow the Regiment raised here
in this County to be stationed among us for our defence, it
will be necessary that some body should have the care of
them, besides their own officers, to employ them in such a
manner as shall be most for the safety of the whole.

In this service 1 think I might be of as much or more
service to the publick than if I were to go up to the Com-
mittee ; and as the gentlemen there are more acquainted
with the circumstances of that part of the Province than
I am, I should be of the less advantage to them, and I
presume 1 am more acquainted with this part of the Prov-
ince, and, with their concurrence, may be of more service
to the publick here, than there ; for here new emergencies
may and do often arise, which require immediate attention.
I heard to-day that lately there were a number of In-
dians up Androscoggin River consulting what side to take,
but could not agree among themselves. 'Tis pity but
somebody here should be employed to negotiate with
them, or any other Indians, as opportunity should offer.

A man from Deer Island, near Penobscot, was here this
afternoon, and gives a melancholy account of the distress
the people are in that way, for want of bread, owing to the
stoppage of trade. He heard that several children had
died of hunger. What will become of them God only
knows ; we are not able to help them or ourselves. I
don't know what can be done for them or us, without some
vessel of superiour force to the tenders should be provided
to bring bread-kind among us.

I just now heard that Colonel John Cox was taken on his
passage to New- York with spars, and carried into Boston.

WORCESTER COUNTY (MASSACHUSETTS) COMMITTEE.

Worcester, May 24, 1775.

Whereas the meeting of the Convention of this County
stands adjourned to the second Tuesday in June next, but
as the honourable Provincial Congress have resolved that
it will be expedient for the several Committees of Corres-
pondence to render a true statement of the conduct of their
respective Towns and Districts, on the fourth Wednesday
of this instant, May, especially with regard to their out-
standing Provincial rates: Agreeable thereto the Com-
mittees of Correspondence for the several Towns and Dis-
tricts in this County, are hereby requested to meet at the
Court-House in Worcester, on Wednesday next, at ten
o'clock in the forenoon. Several matters of importance
require a general attendance. Such Towns as have voted
for a County Treasurer are desired to send in their votes
to said Convention on said day.

William Young, Chairman.

Worcester, Massachusetts, May 24, 1775.

It having been thought highly expedient, at this exi-
gency of our publick affairs, that every person among us
who is known to be an enemy to the rights and privileges
of this Country, and has been aiding or abetting to the
cursed plans of a tyrannical ruler and an abandoned Min-

701

CORRESPONDENCE, PROCEEDINGS, &c, MAY, 1775.

702

istry, should be disarmed, and rendered as incapable as
possible of doing further materia] mischief to this distressed
Province, the Tories in this Town were notified to appear
with their anus and ammunition on Monday last. They
accordingly appeared, and after surrendering their arms
to the Committee of Correspondence, and being strictly
ordered not to leave the Town or to meet together, with-
out a permit, were dismissed.

woburn (Massachusetts) committee.

Whereas the Committee of Correspondence for the
Town of Woburn, authorized by the honourable Provin-
cial Congress to examine into the principles and conduct of
any person suspected of being inimical to the liberties of
this Country, have examined Major Benjamin Thompson,
of Concord, in the Province of New- Hampshire, being
brought before them, suspected of being thus inimical.
And whereas the said Committee have summoned certain
evidences, who they supposed could give light into the
matter, to attend, which evidence failed of so doing : This
is therefore to inform all persons who are knowing to the
said Major Thompson's conduct, that the Committee have
adjourned to Monday, the 29th day of May next, at three
o'clock, afternoon, at the meeting-house, where said evi-
dence are desired to attend, as the Committee think them-
selves bound to dismiss and recommend the said Thomp-
son, unless something more appears against him than what
they have heard. Samuel Wyman, Chairman.

May 24, 1775.

COMMITTEES OF SAFETY OF PORTSMOUTH, GREENLAND,
AND RYE.

At a meeting of the Committees of Safety of the Towns
of Portsmouth, Greenlund, and Rye, concerning the exami-
nation of one John Ackerman, upon a suspicion of the said
John Ackerman's being inimical to the liberties and privi-
leges of this Country, suspected to be giving and receiving
intelligence from the British Troops, for which purposes
of inquiry the said Ackerman was sent from the Provincial
Congress in Exeter, to their Committees ; and after a tho-
rough examination of the said Ackerman, Benjamin Hart
and John Rcisc, who were represented to them by said Con-
gress as having sent the said Ackerman into the country:
It appears to the said Committees that the said. Ackerman
was sent into the country as aforesaid for personal safety, to
give intelligence of any armed men coming to Portsmouth,
as the peculiar stations of some persons gave suspicion of
some design against them, and that it was for no other
end that the said Ackerman was sent, as appears from
their particular examination upon oath, had before us, the
said Committees, and they were accordingly dismissed.

By order of the Committee for Portsmouth :

H. Wentworth, Chairman.

By order of the Committee for Greenland :

John Haven, Chairman.

By order of the Committee for Rye :

Joseph Parsons, Chairman.

Portsmouth, N. H., May 24, 1775.

Portsmouth, May 23, 1775.

This certifies that the bearer, Mr. John Folsom, brought
a prisoner, viz : John Ackerman, from the Provincial Con-
gress at Exeter, before the Committee of Safety for the
Town of Portsmouth, who ordered a guard to be kept on
him till examination to-morrow, ten o'clock, A. M.

Committee Hall, Tuesday, 4 o'clock, P. M.

Neal McIntyre, Secretary.

RICHMOND COUNTY (VIRGINIA) COMMITTEE.

In Committee, May 25, 1775.

In Committee, London Carter, Esquire, in the Chair.
As His Majesty's Council have judged it proper to publish
an admonitory address to the community at large, we
should think ourselves wanting in respect to the delibera-
tions of that honourable Board not to consider it with the
strictest attention. We have done so accordingly ; and as
we find that the matter of the address is not only exception-
able, but are farther informed that it is industriously circu-

lated amongst the people, together with a proposition lately
made in the House of Commons by Lord North, which
covers the most insidious and dangerous views, under an
artful guise of wisdom, humanity, and peace, we should be
wanting in a much higher duty to ourselves and our con-
stituents, should we fail to animadvert on both with freedom
and decency. We cannot, then, think,

First. That the mild professions of regard for the pros-
perity and welfare of this Country, in the first part of the
address, are consistent with the passionate expressions of
detestation and abhorrence for that spirit in the people by
which alone the liberties of this Country can be secured.
We confess we are entire strangers to any licentious and
ungovernable spirit prevailing. If the honourable gentle-
men mean to brand the late commotions with these appel-
lations, we are compelled to observe that no person can so
unjustly and uncharitably construe them, unless he entirely
turn aside from the violent and provoking measures which
justify them ; for it cannot be expected that the people
should continue quiet when every violence is offered to
their privileges and prosperity, or that they should tamely
suffer the foundation of their Constitution to be overturned
by a too scrupulous adherence to its form.

Second. That inviting and exhorting to mild and con-
stitutional modes of application clearly implies, that they
esteem our former proceedings in this respect violent and
irregular. The justice of this charge we leave to be de-
cided by the world, who are in possession, and who have
given ample testimony in favour of the many suppliant,
wise, and firm applications, which have been addressed to
the several branches of the British Legislature.

Third. We allow all due weight to the pledges of their
friendship, which the Honourable Council have among us ;
and we hope that their integrity may ever be an effectual
antidote to the influence of that servile and baneful spirit
which we are authorized (by the explicit declarations of
many independent and respectable members of both Houses
of Parliament) to say, prevail extensively in this age, with
men in office.

With respect to the proposition of Lord North, above-
mentioned, insultingly called, by ministerial tools, the
olive branch, we are of the opinion that it offers no kind of
redress (even if the Colonies should submit) of any one of
the many grievances under which they now labour ; for in
the only instance in which a seeming redress is proposed,
(that of taxation,) the Parliament of Great Britain is to
settle the quantum to be raised by each Colony, and the
application thereof, the Colonies determining only on the
mode of levying. This by no means is relief to them,
but in fact puts them in a worse situation than ever, as
they thereby will fully acknowledge the absolute power of
the British Parliament ; and we are still to have the sword
hung over our heads, ready to fall on such as shall in any
instance disoblige the Minister, or refuse to obey his dic-
tates. Lord North himself declared his intention was only
to divide the Colonies, and thereby the more easily subdue
them. The selecting out Governour PownalVs speech alone,
approving the motion, when so many excellent speeches
were made exposing the measure, and setting its treachery
and absurdity in a clear and evident light, is a certain proof
of the design of the King's officers here to mislead the good
people of this Colony.

By order of the Committee:

Le Roy Peachy, Clerk.

LANCASTER COUNTY (VIRGINIA) COMMITTEE.

The Committee of the County of Lancaster, on the 25th
day of May, 1775, taking into consideration his Excellency
Lord Dunmorc's Address to the Council, and their recom-
mendation and Proclamation issued in consequence thereof,
hold they are necessarily bound to justify themselves and
their constituents from such cruel imputations and asser-
tions, and that such Proclamation must tend to excite a
belief of an intention to change the Government, or raise
convulsions in the state.

That the behaviour of some of the people in this Col-
ony, alluded to, originated in a full assurance of the deter-
mined bloody plan to enslave the Colonies, manifested in
various instances and ungracious encroachments, and more
particularly and immediately in his Excellency's clandes-

703

CORRESPONDENCE, PROCEEDINGS, &c, MAY, 1775.

70-1

line removal of the powder from the publick Magazine of
the Colony.

That his Excellency's ill-founded and injurious charge,
to criminate the body of the people in this Colony, is hostile,
and cannot be justified ; therefore, he has forfeited the con-
fidence of the inhabitants of this Country.

That those members of His Majesty's Council who re-
commended and assisted in such Proclamation, and also
since gave their advice to the good people of this Coun-
try, prefaced with cruel and indecent allegations, manifestly
implying seditious and rebellious actions, tending to raise
bitter dissensions and animosities, acted without prudence,
policy, moderation, or generosity ; and we are most sensi-
bly grieved, that those whose duty and high department
should warm them to every mode of reconciliation, should
not only countenance, but themselves become incendiaries
to fix, by their publication, a stigma by such an unmerited
stricture on their brethren and fellow sufferers.

That our application for redress of grievances so justly
founded, so often and vainly repeated ; our long sufferance
and forbearance under such unfellow-feeling, unrelenting
measures, and our ardent wishes and endeavours for a re-
conciliation, by the restitution of our just rights and privi-
leges, as we enjoyed them in the year 1763, evinces our
attachment to our once happy Constitution, and our alle-
giance to our gracious Sovereign.

We, in order to exculpate ourselves and our constituents
from such heinous maledictions, and to convince the world
of our upright intentions, pledge ourselves to support the
Constitution, and His Majesty King George the Third, in all
his just rights and prerogatives, with our lives and fortunes.

Published by order of the Committee.

TO THE PUBLICK.

Norfolk, Va., May 25, 1775.
The inhabitants of the Borough of Norfolk, in town-
meeting assembled, being informed that Captain Collins, of
the Magdalen armed schooner, is endeavouring to dispose
of a sloop seized by him, lately belonging to John JJoiv-
doin, Esquire, of the Eastern Shore ; and being also fur-
ther informed, that the said Collins has made application
to some persons for the purchase of a pilot boat, probably
with an intention to convert her into a tender, to distress
the trade of this or some other Colony : The inhabitants of
this Borough are therefore determined to give no encour-
agement to him, or any such men, nor purchase any of
their prizes from them, nor in the least contribute to their
emolument by bidding for the plunder of our countrymen ;
nor will we sell any pilot boat or any other vessel to them
for their hostile purposes, nor in any respect have any kind
of dealings with them. And the inhabitants of this Bo-
rough, assembled as aforesaid, do further resolve, to have
no dealing with any person that, in spite of the ties of
duty and attachment to his Country, shall counteract these
our resolutions, by granting any assistance for the destruc-
tion of our rights and properties, or of any other of the
good people of the confederated Colonies. And we invite
all persons to accede to this resolution.

Test : William Davies, Secretary.

TO THE PEOPLE OF VIRGINIA.

Williamsburgh, May 25, 1775.

Whilst we are almost involved in all the terrours of a
civil war; whilst the injured genius of America cries aloud
for justice ; and whilst the only measures by which an ac-
commodation can be procured meet with a most daring
and unjust opposition from some of our most distinguished
men, who should rather be the principal promoters of it:
can I, without doing violence to reason, avoid exclaiming
against the inhumanity of the action ? Were they English-
men, I should only say that they could not divest them-
selves of that partiality for their native Country, almost
inherent in our nature, and of consequence had imbibed
wrong principles; but for Americans, both born and brought
up among us, to sell their Country for a smile, or some
ministerial office, what language is sufficient to express the
indignation, the contempt, which such conduct must natu-
rally create in every virtuous breast. Alas! Great Bri-
tain, thy vices have even extended to Avierica. So small

an isle is become insufficient to contain such innumerable
pollutions. Americans ! the torrent as yet is but small ;
only a few are involved in it ; it must be soon stopped, or
it will bear all before it with an impetuous sway. The
warlike Coriolanus, after he had fought many great and
memorable battles in the service of his Country, after he
had opposed in Carioli, an extensive city, all its inhabi-
tants, as valiantly as ever extravagant fiction represents
Hector to have done in the Grecian camp ; 1 say, after he
had performed such meritorious actions for his Country,
when he found himself treated contemptuously, and ban-
ished from the city for taking up arms against his Country
in his own defence, has all his former glory sullied. In
what light, then, must we look on our countrymen, who
espouse the side of the infamous Ministry ? The conclu-
sion is obvious. Pity for the despicable wretches bids mo
cease to draw it. Voluntarius.

Kent-County upon Delaware, May 25, 1775.

The Militia Officers of above twenty Companies, chosen
in the several Districts throughout said County, met toge-
ther at Dover; and that the business of the day might be
conducted with order and regularity, they chose Captain
John Haslet, Chairman, and Lieutenant Mark McCall,
Clerk.

The following Association was then drawn up, and unani-
mously approved and subscribed, viz:

" We, whose names are hereunto written, Military Offi-
cers, duly elected and chosen by the good people of the
several Hundreds and Districts of the County of Ken
upon Delaware, pursuant to the direction and recommen-
dation of the Committee of Inspection for said County, do
hereby jointly and severally, for ourselves and each of us,
solemnly promise and engage, by the sacred ties of honour
and love for our Country, that we and each of us will, to
the utmost of our abilities, well and faithfully execute the
important offices conferred upon us by our fellow-subjects,
and in our military and every other capacity, at the risk of
our lives and fortunes, defend the liberties and privileges of
America, as well natural as constitutional, against all inva-
ders, or such as may attempt any the least violation or in-
fringement of them.

" And we do further, in manner aforesaid, promise and
agree, that we, and each of us, will subject ourselves to
such pains, penalties, military punishments, and disgrace,
as Courts Martial, to be constituted from time to time of
the officers of our own body, shall or may inflict on any of
us offending against the rules of military discipline, or con-
travening, in word or deed, the true interest of America,
or the spirit and principle of this Association."

The Convention next proceeded to divide the County
into two Divisions, each division to contain one Regiment
of men, and then chose the necessary Field-Officers for
each Regiment, viz:

For the Upper Regiment.
The Honourable Casar Rodney, Esq., Colonel ;
Thomas Collins, Esquire, Lieutenant-Colonel; and
Mr. French Battcll, Major.

For the Lower Regiment.
John Haslet, Esquire, Colonel ;
William Rhodes, Esquire, Lieutenant-Colonel ; and
Mr. Robert Hodgson, Major.

They then settled an uniform plan of their future con-
duct, with rules to be observed in every Company ; and
broke up in perfect harmony.

Published by order of the Convention :

Mark McCall, Clerk.

ARTHUR ST. CLAIR TO GOVERNOUR PENIf.

Ligonier, May 25, 1775.

Sir: An express from Pittsburgh, with despatches for
your Honour, having called here this morning, I embrace
the opportunity to inform your Honour that a commis-
sion is come up from Virginia to collect the Colony duty
on all peltries exported from that place, and that notice
has been given to the traders there to conduct themselves
accordingly. I think they will find some way to evade
paying it, and those that are not yet come in, will cer-

705

CORRESPONDENCE, PROCEEDINGS, &c, MAY, 1775.

706

tainly carry them past. 'Tis a sliocking thing that people
should be obliged to such shift, and the trade of the Prov-
ince be destroyed, by the obstinacy and caprice of one man.
I flatter mvself, however, it will not be of Ion" continu-
ance. Lord Dunmore's seizing the magazine has raised
such a ferment that he will not probably visit the frontiers
soon, and by the prorogation of his Assembly, the invasion
law, under which it seems the garrison of the fort was kept
up, will expire ; I think the ninth of next month is its pe-
riod, and I am informed Connolly is preparing to decamp.

We have nothing but masters and Committees all over
the country, and every thing seems to be running into the
greatest confusion. If some conciliating plan is not adopted
by the Congress, America has seen her golden days ; they
may return, but will be preceded by scenes of horrour. An
Association is formed in this County for defence of Ameri-
can liberty. I got a clause added, by which they bind
themselves to assist the civil Magistrates in the execution of
the laws they have been accustomed to be governed by.

Hanna and Cavet are still pressing me to do something
for their relief, and are very desirous they should be brought
off by force ; their project was, that writs should be issued
against them, and that the Sheriff should take a posse with
him and bring them away, and make prisoners at the same
time of their persecutors. I believe 'tis very practicable,
but I gave them to know that without positive directions
from your Honour I would advise no such step, and that I
thought you would not direct any that might have a ten-
dency to embroil the Provinces. However, it is no won-
der that they are uneasy ; they have been long confined,
and must have suffered considerably by it.

Lord Dunmore has issued a Proclamation, disclaiming
the proceedings of the Surveyors in taking entries of lands,
and ordering them to return the money received for them,
but has spared their names ; but I have seen none of them ;
they were spirited away, it seems, as fast as they appeared.

If the Fort should be evacuated next month, pray, Sir,
would it be proper to endeavour to get possession of it, or
to raze it? That may possibly be done by themselves.

Mr. Connolly has sent out for some of the principal men
of the Indians to come and receive the prisoners, and the
Pittsburgh Committee have petitioned the General Con-
gress to hold a treaty with the Western Tribes. I have
the honour to be, Sir, your Honour's most obedient and
most humble servant, Arthur St. Clair.

In Provincial Congress, New-York,
May 25, 1775.

To the Honourable the Governour and Company of the
English Colony of Connecticut :

Brethren : By a minute of the Grand Continental Con-
gress, of the eighteenth of May, in the year of our Lord
one thousand seven hundred and seventy-five, a copy of
which we do herewith transmit you, we are informed that
Ticonderoga hath been taken by sundry inhabitants of the
Northern Colonies ; and from the minute aforesaid we are
assured that this measure was for the common safety of the
American Colonies.

In pursuance of the directions contained in that minute,
we have given the necessary orders for removing the can-
non and stores taken at that important fortress to the south
end of Lake George, and for securing them there ; and We
have appointed Messrs. John N. Bleeker, Henry I. Bo-
gart, George Palmer, Dirk Swart, and Peter Lansing,
superintendents of this business.

There is no doubt but that our brethren of Connecticut
will feel great reluctance at the idea of ordering any of
their troops to march within the bounds of this Colony,
for the purpose of defending the fort of Ticonderoga and
the cannon and stores above-mentioned at Fort George.
But we pray you to cast away all fears of offending us upon
this occasion. We shall be happy to hear that you have
placed a part of your forces in these posts, with intent to
defend them, until they shall be relieved by troops from
this Colony.

In further pursuance of the directions of the Grand Con-
gress, we have ordered provisions to be conveyed to Ticon-
deroga and Lake George, and we shall continue to furnish
such supplies as we shall deem necessary.

You will be pleased, gentlemen, to appoint trusty com-

manders over your forces destined for the purposes above-
mentioned ; and we do assure you of our willingness that
they shall take the command at those places while garri-
soned by your troops. We beg leave to assure you that
in this and all other matters we will pay the highest atten-
tion to every recommendation of the Grand Continental
Congress, and that we have the honour to be, gentlemen,
your most obedient humble servants,

P. V. B. Livingston, President.
By order of the Congress :

John McKesson, ) c,

R,i ' > Secretaries.

OBERT 13ENSON, J

P. S. We pray you to use every effort to preserve and
improve the present peaceable disposition of the Canadians
and Indians, for which purpose we think it will be neces-
sary to keep up the strictest vigilance to prevent any incur-
sions from being made into the Province of Quebeck.

In Congress, Thursday, May 18, 1775.

Whereas, there is indubitable evidence that a design is
formed by the British Ministry of making a cruel invasion
from the Province of Quebeck upon these Colonies, for
the purpose of destroying our lives and liberties, and some
steps have actually been taken to carry the said design into
execution : and whereas several inhabitants of the Northern
Colonies, residing in the vicinity of Ticonderoga, immedi-
ately exposed to incursions, impelled by a just regard for
the defence and preservation of themselves and their coun-
trymen from such imminent danger and calamities, have
taken possession of that post in which was lodged a quantity
of cannon and military stores that would certainly have
been used in the intended invasion of these Colonies : this
Congress earnestly recommend it to the Committees of the
Cities and Counties of New- York and Albany, immediately
to cause the said cannon and stores to be removed from Ti-
conderoga to the south end of Lake George; and, if neces-
sary, to apply to the Colonies of New-Hampshire, Massa-
chusetts-Bay, and Connecticut, for such an additional body
of forces as will be sufficient to establish a strong post at that
place, effectually to secure the said cannon and stores, or so
many of them, as it may be judged proper to keep there,
and that an exact inventory be taken of all such cannon
and stores, in order that they may be safely returned when
the restoration of the former harmony between Great Bri-
tain and the Colonies, so ardently wished for by the latter,
shall render it prudent and consistent with the overruling
law of self-preservation.

A true copy from the Minutes :

Charles Thompson, Secretary.

New-York, May 20, 1775. — A true copy:

Henry Remsen, Dep. Chairman.

COLONEL SPENCER TO THE ASSEMBLY OF CONNECTICUT.

Hartford, May 25, 1775.

Colonel Spencer returns his hearty thanks to the Hon-
ourable General Assembly now sitting at Hartford, for the
undeserved honours that have been conferred upon him
from time to time, and particularly that he has had the
honour for some time to command the Twelfth Regiment
of Militia in this Colony. And he begs leave to assure your
Honodrs that he always has been and still is ready to serve
your Honours, according to his ability, in any place to
which he has been appointed, so far as may be in his
power ; but as his late appointment in the Colony service
forbids that attendance to the duty of a Colonel as afore-
said, as the circumstances of the times require, he humbly
begs leave to lay down his said office of Colonel; and sub-
scribes himself your Honours' most obedient and most hum-
ble servant, Joseph Spencer.

GOVERNOUR TRUMBULL TO THE MASSACHUSETTS CON-
GRESS.

Hartford, May 25, 1775.

Gentlemen : Your letter of the 17th instant, with the
enclosed Resolve of the Provincial Congress of Massa-
chusetts-Bay, was delivered to me by Colonel Easton,
and communicated to the General Assembly, who have
desired me to return their congratulations on the reduction
of Ticonderoga, a fortress truly important, and to assure

Fourth Series. — Vol. ir.

45

707

CORRESPONDENCE, PROCEEDINGS, fcc, MAY, 1775.

708

you they entertain a proper sense of the merit of those
officers and soldiers by whose bravery and good conduct it
was achieved. As this advantage was gamed by the united
counsels and enterprise of a number of private gentlemen
in your Province, New-Hampshire, New-York, and this
Colony, prompted only by a zeal for the liberty of their
Country, without publick authority, (to our knowledge,)
and is of great and general importance to the United Colo-
nies, it was thought best to take the advice of the Conti-
nental Congress upon the manner of treating it in future,
both by the General Assembly of this Colony and the Com-
mittee of New- York, as well as by you. Despatches were
accordingly sent to Philadelphia, and the intention of the
Continental Congress thereupon hath been this day receiv-
ed by express, with a letter from the Committee of Niw-
York, copies of which enclosed are herewith sent you. By
them you will see the present custody of that fortress is
committed to the Province of New- York, with the assist-
ance of the New-England Colonies, if needed.

The General Assembly of this Colony behold your situa-
tion with concern, and a fixed resolution to contribute every
thing in their power to your defence and preservation, and,
as far as pertains to them, are willing and desirous you
should have the benefit of such artillery as may be spared
from the fortresses of Crown Point and Ticonderoga ; but
as they do not consider themselves as entitled to the com-
mand of those places, they cannot take upon themselves
to give orders for the removal of the heavy cannon that
may be spared without the concurrence of the other Colo-
nies, in them.

The necessity of securing and maintaining the posts on
the lakes for defence of the frontiers, becomes daily more
evident from the iterated intelligence we receive of the plan
formed by our enemies to distress us by inroads of Cana-
dians and savages, from the Province of Quebeck, upon
the adjacent settlements. The enclosed copy of a letter
from our Delegates attending at Netv-York, to communi-
cate measures with the Provincial Congress in that City,
throws an additional light on this subject, and is thought
worthy to be communicated to you ; and whilst the designs
of our enemies against us fill us with concern, we cannot
omit to observe the smiles of Providence upon us in reveal-
ing their wicked plans, and hitherto prospering the attempts
of the Colonies to frustrate them. With a humble reliance
on the continuance of Divine favour and protection in a
cause of the justice of which a doubt cannot be enter-
tained, the General Assembly of this Colony are ready to
co-operate with the other Colonies in every exertion for
their common defence, and to contribute their proportion
of men and other necessaries for maintaining the posts on
the frontiers, or defending or repelling invasions in any
other quarter, agreeable to the advice of the Continental
Congress. I am, gentlemen, in behalf of the General
Assembly of this Colony, your most obedient humble ser-
vant, Jonathan Trumbull.
The Honourable Provincial Congress of Massachusetts.

ceeded. The letters were directed to the Committee of
Safety, but were supposed to be necessary to be laid before
this Congress. I have not seen them yet, but you will
have the particulars from the bearer.

I have also received a letter from the Congress at iYeir-
Ilampshire, informing me of a resolve to raise forthwith
two thousand men, and more if it should be necessary.
The Troops, at least one Company of them, with a train
of artillery from Providence, are in the upper end of Ror-
bury. To say the truth, I find my health much mended
since this morning. I am, gentlemen, your most obedient
servant, J. Warren.

P. S. You will be kind enough to communicate the
contents of this letter to General Room, as I love to give
pleasure to good men.

GENERAL THOMAS TO THE MASSACHUSETTS CONGRESS.

Roxbury Camp, May 25, 1775.

Gentlemen : I have had the honour of being informed
by your Committee, that the Honourable Congress have
made choice of me as Lieutenant-General of the Massa-
chusetts Army, and desire to know whether 1 would accept
that trust. I am sensible of the great importance of the
office, and of my inability of discharging that duty ; but
since you have done me the honour of appointing me to
that important office, shall accept of the same, and attend
the Congress to-morrow. I am, gentlemen, with the most
profound respect, your most obedient humble servant,

John Thomas.
To the Honourable Provincial Congress.

committee of malden to committee of safety.

Mulden, May 25, 177"..

Gentlemen : This may certify that Mr. Ebcnczer Pratt,
Mr. John Nichols, Mr. John Barrett, and Mr. John Ni-
chols, Jr., are persons who may be confided in, that they
will not take any advantage of a pass which has been ob-
tained for them from Samuel Graves, Vice-Admiral of the
Blue, to the disadvantage of the common cause, in which
we are all engaged, desiring, at the same time, that you
will lay them under such restrictions, in every respect, as
you shall judge necessary.

Signed by order and in the name of the Selectmen, the
Committee of Correspondence and Inspection of the Town
of Maiden. Peter Thacher,

Benjamin Blaney,
Elisha Story.
Honourable Committee of Safety, sitting in Cambridge.

LETTER FROM DOCTOR JOSEPH WARREN.

Watertown, May 25, 1775.

Gentlemen: Upon my arrival here just this minute, I
had the pleasure of being informed that our worthy friend
Colonel Arnold, not having had the sole honour of redu-
cing Ticonderoga and Crown Point, determined upon an
expedition against *Sf. John's, in which he happily suc-

petition from the inhabitants of machias to the
massachusetts congress.

Machias, May 25, 1775.

To the Honourable Congress of the Massachusetts-Bay:
Gentlemen: With the highest satisfaction we now con-
sider you as the guardians of this extensive and wealthy
Province ; and relying on your wisdom, the wisdom of the
Continental Congress, the justice of our cause, and the
tender mercy of our fathers' God, we promise ourselves, in
due time, a happy deliverance from the iron chains of ty-
ranny, which were forming for us, and from servitude equal
to Egyptian bondage.

As a part, therefore, of your charge, we, the distressed
inhabitants of Machias, beg leave to approach your presence,
and to spread our grievances at your feet. We dare not
say we are the foremost in supporting the glorious cause of
American liberty ; but this we can truly affirm, that we have
done our utmost to encourage and strengthen the hand of
all the advocates for America with whom we have been
connected ; that we have not even purchased any goods of
those persons whom we suspected to be inimical to our
Country, except when constrained by necessity ; and that
none on the Continent can more cheerfully risk all that is
dear to them on earth, when called, in support of those
precious privileges which God and our venerable ancestors,
as a most invaluable legacy, have handed clown to us. We
must now inform your Honours, that the inhabitants of this
place exceed one hundred families, some of which are very
numerous, and that Divine Providence has cut off all our
usual resources. A very severe drought last fall prevented
our laying in sufficient stores ; and had no vessels visited us
in the winter, we must have suffered. Nor have we this
spring been able to procure provisions sufficient for carry-
ing on our business ; our labourers are dismissed, some of
our mills stand still, almost all vessels have forsaken us, our
lumber lies by us in heaps, and, to complete our misfortunes,
all our ports are to be shut up on the first of July next.
We must add, we have no country behind us to lean upon,
nor can we make an escape by flight ; the wilderness is im-
pervious, and vessels we have none. To you, therefore,
honoured gentlemen, we humbly apply for relief; you are
our last, our only resource ; and permit us to say again,
you are our guardians, and we rejoice and glory in being
subject. Pardon our importunity. We cannot take a
denial, for, under God, you are all our dependance; and if

709

CORRESPONDENCE, PROCEEDINGS, &c, MAY, 1775.

710

you neglect us, we are ruined. Save, dear Sirs, one of
your most flourishing settlements from famine and all its
horrours. We ask not for charity; we ask for a supply to
be put into the hands of Messrs. Smith and Slillman, or
any other person or persons your wisdom may point out,
who shall obligate themselves to pay the whole amount in
lumber, the only staple of our country.

That God may long preserve you, and make you happily
instrumental in his hand, in restoring all the sweets of peace
and liberty to this much injured Country, and even to
Great Britain herself, is the constant and fervent prayer
of, gentlemen, your most humble petitioners.

this County in whose behalf we are your Honours' most
obedient humble servants,

J ed edi ah Preble, Chairman.

John Longfellow,
Abraham Clark,
James Flinn,
Amos Boynton,
B. D. J. Underwood,
John Sinkler,
William Chalonor,
William Albee,
Daniel Hill,
Nathan Longfellow,
James Lyon,
James Elliott,
Timothy Young,

Bradbury Merrill,
Samuel Millbcrry,
John Watts,
Samuel Barman,
James Colbroth,
Jonas Farnsworth
Eleazer Hathaway,
Ezekiel Foster,
Solomon Littlefiold,
Jacob Libby,
Lodowick Holway,
Micajah How,
Benjamin Gatchell,

Stephen Young,
William Bodwin,
John Chaloner,
Benj. Gooch, Jr.,
Jonathan Brown,
Josoph Clifford,
Joseph Sealey, Jr.,
George Sealey,
John Chase,
Ephraim Chase,
Beriah Rice,
Israel Andrews.

COMMITTEE OF CORRESPONDENCE OF CUMBERLAND COUNTY
TO THE MASSACHUSETTS CONGRESS.

Colony of tho Massachusetts-Bay, )
County of Cumberland. J

To the Honourable the Representatives of the several
Towns in said Colony, in General Congress assembled :

May it please your Honours : We, the Committees of
Correspondence of the several Towns in said County, beg
leave to represent to your Honours the circumstances of
this County in this day of struggle and danger. In the
first place we confess our Towns have, in general, heretofore,
been negligent in providing arms and ammunition according
to law, until distress came upon us from our mother Coun-
try, and then were debarred from having them from thence
where we were wont to purchase them ; since which we
have not been able to furnish ourselves. And in the next
place we are in a distressed situation with respect to provi-
sion for our people to subsist upon till their new crops come
in, owing, in part, to their last year's crops being cut short
by the drought, and so many of our people not being
farmers, but lumbering sailors, &,c, together with the diffi-
culty and danger there now is of getting any from the
Southern Governments, owing to their carefulness to keep
a sufficient supply for their own people in this day of ex-
pense, and the hazard of having it taken by the men-of-
war and tenders, could we procure any of them ; and where
to fly for relief, but to your Honours, we know not. Not-
withstanding these difficulties, we can with pleasure say
that the people of this country almost universally are
zealous in the cause of constitutional liberty, and have ex-
erted themselves in complying with the recommendations
of the Congresses, and particularly in raising a Regiment of
hardy and spirited men for the service of the Colony, who
have been exercising every day, as we understand, for some
time past, and expected to be sent for to the Army ; till
lately we have the satisfaction to hear the Army is like to
be complete without them. We would likewise represent
to your Honours, that we are exposed to our enemies by
sea and land ; by sea, our sheep and cattle on the islands
and shores are exposed to be ravaged by every little tender
that may be sent to get fresh meat for their fleet and army ;
and by land, we may be alarmed by the inroads of our old
enemies, the Indians and French, though we hope better
things from them.

Wherefore we pray your Honours to take our plain
and just representation into consideration, and, if possible,
find out some way whereby we may be supplied with some
arms, ammunition, and provisions, and that the Regiment
enlisted here may be stationed among us, and subsisted at
the charge of the publick, for our defence, until they shall
be more wanted elsewhere, (in which case they will be
r^-ady to march on the first notice,) and while here, to be
employed in such a manner as may be most for our safety
and advantage, and that they may pass muster here by
some person who may be appointed for that purpose. Your
Honours' favourable answer to our request will much oblige

THOMAS BARNARD TO THE COMMITTEE OF SAFETY FOR
SALEM.

Salem, May 25, 1775.

Gentlemen : A suspicion of being inimical to those
with whom we are connected in society, and whom we es-
teem and love, cannot but give severe pain to a generous
mind.

Unhappily I have been viewed by my countrymen in a
light so disagreeable. The Address which I signed to Gov-
ernour Hutchinson, upon his leaving this Province, 1 signed
with no party views ; with no design whatever of injuring
that Country, with the prosperity of which my dearest hu-
man interests are closely connected ; but with strong hopes
of promoting the lasting peace and welfare of my native
land. But I own my fond expectations arising therefrom
have been disappointed. The cause of America I look
upon as capable of full defence by the voice of justice and
the British Constitution, and shall be ever ready to support
it in that way which the united wisdom of the Continent
shall dictate.

Such are my sentiments, and upon the strength of them
I would request of my countrymen to throw the veil of
charity and forgiveness over any incautious action of mine,
which may have led them to think unfavourably of me,
and to grant me a place in their esteem, which 1 shall ever
think myself happy in deserving.

Thomas Barnard, Jr.

In Committee of Safety, Salem, May 25, 1775.

Resolved unanimously, That the foregoing declaration of
the Reverend Thomas Barnard, Jr., now laid before the
Committee, is fully satisfactory, and we hope will remove
any ill impressions that may have been made on the minds
of the good people of this Province in consequence of his
addressing Governour Hutchinson, and cause them to look
upon him as a friend to his Country.

Richard Derby, Jr., Chairman.

Charlestown, S. C, May 26, 1775.

We are informed that the inhabitants of this Town lately
presented a memorial to the General Committee, setting
forth the dearness and alarming scarcity of grain ; and that
the Committee, after having made a full inquiry into the
facts, have resolved that it is their opinion that no Indian
corn should be exported from this Province, except by
persons who may have plantations in Georgia, for their
own immediate use upon such plantations ; nor any rice,
except to complete the lading of such vessels as had actu-
ally taken on board part of their intended cargoes of rice
before the twenty-fourth instant, until the General Assem-
bly, or the Provincial Congress, shall take the matter under
their consideration, and come to some determination there-
upon.

We are also informed that the General Committee hav-
ing been applied to by Captain Heslope, of the Brigantine
Hannah, lately arrived from Liverpool with about eight
thousand bushels of salt, for permission to cast the said
cargo of salt overboard into Hog-Island Creek, as if it was
only common ballast, and not merchandise ; after having
duly considered every circumstance, and being fully satis-
fied that the said cargo was shipped at Liverpool as mer-
chandise, with an intent to put the American Association
at defiance, and putting the virtue of the inhabitants of this
Colony to the test, have resolved that it was their opinion
that the said cargo " ought to be forthwith sent back ;'; and
we hear that Captain Heslope, finding too late the effects
of his owner's folly and presumption, is preparing to return
to Liverpool with their full cargo.

LOUDOUN COUNTY (VIRGINIA) COMMITTEE.

At a meeting of the Committee of Loudoun County, held
at Leesburgh on Friday, May 26, 1775. Present : Francis
Peyton, Esq., Josias Clapham, Thomas Lewis, Anthony
Russell, John Thomas, George Johnston, Thomas Shore,

711

CORRESPONDENCE, PROCEEDINGS, kc, MAY, 1775.

712

James Lane, Jacob Reed, Levin Powell, William Smith,
Robert Jamison, Hardage Lane, and John Lewis, gen-
tlemen.

The Committee, taking into consideration the conduct of
the Governour relative to the powder which was, by his
express orders, taken secretly out of the puhlick Magazine
belonging to this Colony, in the night of the twentieth ult.,
and carried on board the Magdaline Schooner:

Resolved, luminc contradicente, That his Lordship, by
this and other parts of his conduct which have lately trans-
pired, has not only forfeited the confidence of the good
people of this Colony, but that he may be justly esteemed
an enemy to America; and that as well his excuse pub-
lished in his Proclamation of the fourth instant, as his verbal
answer to the Address presented him on that occasion by
the City of Williamsburgh, are unsatisfactory and evasive,
and reflect, in our opinion, great dishonour on the General
Assembly and inhabitants of this Colony, as from the latter
a suspicion may be easily deduced, that the Representatives
of the people are not competent judges of the place wherein
arms and ammunition, intended for the defence of the Colo-
ny, may be safely lodged, and that the inhabitants (unlike
other subjects) cannot, in prudence, be trusted with the
means necessary for their protection from insurrection, or
even invasion ; so in the former a very heavy charge is
exhibited against the best men among us, of seducing their
fellow-subjects from their duty and allegiance ; a charge,
we are confident, not founded in reality, and which, we be-
lieve, is construed out of the discharge of that duty which
every good man is under, to point out to his weaker coun-
trymen, in the day of publick trial, the part they should
act, and explain, on constitutional principles, the nature of
their allegiance, the ground of which we fervently pray
may never be removed, whose force we desire may never
with reason be relaxed, but yet may be subservient to con-
siderations of superiour regard.

The Committee being informed by some of the officers
who commanded the Troops of this County that marched
on the above occasion, that the reason of their marching no
farther than Fredericksburgh was, their having received
repeated requests from the Honourable Peyton Randolph,
Esq., to return home, assuring them that the peaceable
citizens of Williamsburgh were under no apprehensions of
danger, either in their persons or properties; that the pub-
lick treasury and records were perfectly safe ; and that
there was no necessity for their proceeding any further ;
three of the other Delegates appointed to the Continental
Congress, the only civil power we know of in this great
struggle for liberty, being of the same opinion.

Resolved, nemine contradicente, That under such circum-
stances we approve the conduct of the said Officers and
Troops.

Resolved, nemine contradicente, That we cordially ap-
prove the conduct of our countryman, Captain Patrick
Henry, and the other volunteers of Hanover County, who
marched under him, in making reprisals on the King's pro-
perty for the trespass committed as aforesaid, and that we
are determined to hazard all the blessings of this life rather
than suffer the smallest injury offered to their persons or
estates, on this account, to pass unrewarded with its equal
punishment,

Resolved, nemine contradicente, That it be recommended
to the Representatives of this County , as the opinion of this
Committee, that they by no means agree to the reprisals,
taken as aforesaid, being returned.

Ordered, That the Clerk transmit immediately a copy
of the preceding Resolves to the Printers of the Virginia
and Pennsylvania Gazettes, to be published.

By order of the Committee,

George Johnston, Clerk.

NEW-YORK CONGRESS TO MASSACHUSETTS COMMITTEE OF
SAFETY.

Ill Provincial Congress, New-York, )
May 26, 1775. \

Brethren : Having received a minute of the Grand Con-
tinental Congress, of which we send you a copy herewith,
we wrote a letter to the Governour and Company of the
Colony of Connecticut, of which we also send you a copy.

We do not doubt of your ready concurrence in the mea-

sures recommended by that august body, in which we do
entirely acquiesce.

We pray you to act on this occasion with prudence and
expedition, especially as ue have received intimation from
our brethren in Connecticut that they cannot send a suffi-
cient force for the purposes mentioned to them in our letter:
and we beg leave to assure you that we are affectionately
your friends and brethren in the generous cause of freedom.

We are, gentlemen, your humble servants,

P. V. B. Livingston, President.

To Joseph Warren, Esq., and others, the Committee of
Safety for the Colony of Massachusetts-Bay.

THE SUB-COMMITTEE OF THE CITY AND COUNTY OF ALBANY

TO THE PROVINCIAL CONGRESS OF NEW-YORK.

[Read before Congress .7 line 3, 1775.]

Albany Committee-Chamber, t
May 26, 1775. \

Gentlemen : We have received a letter from the Acic-
York Committee, of the twentieth inst., enclosing the Re-
solution of the Continental Congress of the eighteenth in-
stant. We have likewise received some material information
from the north and westward, which we shall now lay before
you. And first respecting our western intelligence. We
are so much crowded with business and despatches from dif-
ferent quarters, that we cannot so copiously enlarge on every
different subject as we could wish ; we shall therefore only-
state the necessary facts to you, interspersed with such re-
marks as we conceive of consequence.

The first of our intelligence from the west was, that the
Indians were exceedingly uneasy, and more of them daily
coming in to Colonel Johnson's place at Guy Park, occa-
sioned, as he alleges, by reason of a report in his neighbour-
hood, that the New-England people, with some others,
intended seizing and taking him captive to New-England,
and by this means extinguish the Indian council fire. And
that this was to be done in consequence of another report
that Colonel Johnson was setting up the Indians to destroy
the inhabitants, fee.

Next we received a letter wrote by four Mohawks to the
Oneidas, whereof we enclose you a copy, translated from
the Mohawk into English, No. 2.

Next we received a letter from the Committee of Pala-
tine District, in Tryon County, whereof we enclose you a
copy, No. 3 ; our answer to which you have enclosed,
No. 3, a.

Next, five persons from Tryon County here, who made
oath of their being stopped in the road at Colonel Johnson's
on the seventeenth instant ; we enclose copy of the affi-
davit, No. 4.

On the same day we also received from the Committee
of Schenectady a copy of Colonel JohnsoJi's letter to them,
dated the eighteenth, which you have enclosed, No. 5, and
to which the Schenectady Committee wrote him an answer,
whereof we have no copy.

Next we received copy of a letter from Colonel Johnson
to the Magistrates and others of Palatine, Canajoharie,
and the upper Districts, dated twentieth instant, which you
have enclosed, No. 6; and of the answer to which we have
no copy.

Next we received copy of another letter from Colonel
Johnson, without a date, directed to the Magistrates, &c,
of Schenectady, and the Mayor and Corporation, &ic, of
Albany, which you have enclosed, No. 7; whereupon we
wrote him a letter, dated the twenty-third instant, copy
whereof you have enclosed, No. 8., and one to the same
effect was wrote to him, on the same subject, by the Cor-
poration here.

Next we received copy of the speech of the Mohawks,
interpreted by the Reverend Mr. Kirkland, on the twentieth
instant, whereof you have a copy enclosed, No. 9 ; whereto
we wrote an answer, dated twenty-third instant, and ap-
pointed two persons of our Committee, to wit, Gilbert
Marselis and Peter Schuyler, to go to the Mohawks, with
Mr. Martin Lydias as an interpreter ; enclosed you have
a copy thereof, No. 10.

Next we received a reply from the Mohawks to our
answer, dated the twenty-fifth ; a copy whereof you have
enclosed, No. 11, wherein is contained the reply of the
Indians, and the Sub-Committee's answer thereto.

713

CORRESPONDENCE, PROCEEDINGS, kc, MAY, 1775.

714

We shall now proceed to communicate our northern in-
telligence, the substance of which you will fully collect from
Col. Arnold's letter to us, dated twenty-second inst., w here-
of we enclose you a copy, No. 12. Second : Col. Arnold's
letter to Captain Noah Lee, dated the twenty-third in-
stant, whereof we enclose you a copy, No. 13. Third:
We yesterday received the Quebeck mail opened, and sent
to us by some of our people from above, and such letters
as were already opened, were inspected by two of our mem-
bers, who made an extract of such passages in them as
respected their publick commotions, a copy of which ex-
tract we enclose you, No. 14.

We shall now take notice of the New-York Commit-
tee's letter to us, of the twentieth instant, enclosing the Re-
solution of the Continental Congress, from which we find
that the reduction of Ticonderoga by our forces, is ap-
proved of, and recommending us to proceed with all pos-
sible despatch with a sufficient body of forces, &tc, to the
northward, to remove the cannon and stores from Ticon-
deroga to the south end of Lake George. We are now
busy to raise two Companies, each Company composed of
fifty men, in order to go upon said expedition, who we ex-
pect will be in readiness to march in two or three days.
But, gentlemen, there are a number of very material diffi-
culties that immediately arise. We have no ammunition ;
all the powder already gone up, with what we can possibly
collect yet among us, will not amount to above two hun-
dred and fifty pounds ; and with so small a quantity it is
impossible for us to do any thing of consequence, nor can
we possibly conceive how the Provincial forces can main-
tain these northern posts, or withstand the attack of the
British Troops from Quebeck, who are, from the best in-
telligence we can collect, preparing, as fast as possible, to
come down, in order to take these places from us; an
enterprise which, if by them undertaken and completed, will
introduce our enemies into the very bowels of our Country.
We beg of you, gentlemen, without delay, to take these
important matters into your most serious and immediate
consideration, and afford us the necessary assistance in this
our distressed situation, and send us up, with all possible
speed, a sufficient quantity of powder, without which nothing
can possibly be done. We likewise stand in need of blankets,
pitch, tar, oakum, nails, spikes, gin, ropes, camp-kettles,
intrenching tools, &c, and some rice, oat-meal, and barley,
&c. ; also for the sloop and schooner, two mates, two gun-
ners, two gunner's mates, two boatswains, and eighteeen
seamen, agreeable to Colonel Arnold's list, (copy enclosed,)
No. 15, all which you'll be pleased to cause to be sent up
to us with all possible despatch.

We would beg of you, likewise, to take into considera-
tion some mode or plan for raising and paying our forces ;
the one which we have adopted here, pro hdc vice, until
you conclude upon a better one, we enclose you a copy of,
No. 16.

We would mention another matter to you, which, in our
humble opinion, requires your immediate consideration ; that
as the vessel from St. John's has lately been taken by our
forces, and whereof the Continental Congress have had no
intelligence, on the eighteenth instant, when they entered
into the Resolution respecting Ticonderoga, and removing
the stores and cannon from thence to Lake George, whether
it would not he expedient to fortify the latter instead of the
former, as Ticonderoga is by far the strongest and most
important fortress.

We beg the favour of you that you will, immediately
after your perusal of this our letter, and the papers here-
with sent, be pleased to forward the same to the Conti-
nental Congress by the most speedy and eligible mode of
conveyance.

We are, gentlemen, you most obedient servants.

By order of the Committee :

Samuel Stringer, Chairman pro tern.

ETHAN ALLEN TO THE ASSEMBLY OF CONNECTICUT.

Crown Point, May 26, 1775.

Honourable Gentlemen : I here communicate to you
a copy of a letter I sent by Mr. Winthrop Hoit and Cap-
tain Abraham Nimham, a friendly Stockbridge Indian, to
the several Tribes of Indians in Canada.

" Head. Quart, rs of the Army, Crown Point, /
May 84, 1775. \

" By advice of council of the officers, I recommend our
trusty and well-beloved friend and brother, Captain Abra-
ham Nimham, of Stockbridge, as our ambassador of peace
to our good brother Indians of the four Tribes, viz: the
Hocnawagoes, the Swagaches, the Cnncsadaugans, and
the Saint Fransawas.

" Loving brothers and friends : I have to inform you
that George the Third, King of England, has made war
with the English Colonies in America, who have ever till
now been his good subjects ; and sent his army and killed
some of your good friends and brothers at Boston, m tin-
Province of the Massachusetts-Bay . Then your good
brothers in that Province, and in all the Colonies of Eng-
lish America, made war with King George, and have begun
to kill the men of his army, and" have taken Ticonderoga
and Crown Point from him, and all the artillery, and also
a great sloop which was at St. John's, and all the boats in
the lake, and have raised, and are raising two great armies :
one is destined for Boston, and the other for the fortresses
and department of Lake Champlain, to fight the King's
Troops that oppose the Colonies from Canada; and as
King George's soldiers killed our brothers and friends in a
time of peace, I hope, as Indians are good and honest
men, you will not fight for King George against your
friends in America, as they have done you no wrong, and
desire to live with you as brothers. I was always a friend
to Indians, and have hunted with them many times, and
know how to shoot and ambush like Indians, and am «
great hunter.

" I want to have your warriours come and see me, and
help me fight the King's Regular Troops. You know thev
stand all along close together, rank and file, and my men
fight so as Indians do, and I want your warriours to join
with me and my warriours, like brothers, and ambush the
Regulars: if you will, I will give you money, blankets,
tomahawks, knives, paint, and any thing that there is in
the army, just like brothers; and I will go with you into
the woods to scout ; and my men and your men will sleep
together, and eat and drink together, and fight Regulars,
because they first killed our brothers ; and will fight against
us; therefore I want our brother Indians to help us fight;
for I know Indians are good warriours, and can fight well
in the bush. You know it is good for my warriours and In-
dians too to kill the Regulars, because they first began to
kill our brothers in this Country without cause.

" Ye know my warriours must fight, but if you our bro-
ther Indians do not fight on either side, we will still be
friends and brothers ; and you may come and hunt in our
woods, and come with your canoes in the lake, and let us
have venison at our forts on the lake, and have rum, bread,
and what you want, and be like brothers.

" I have sent our friend, Winthrop Hoit, to treat with you
on our behalf in friendship ; you know him, for he has lived
with you, and is your adopted son, and is a good man ;
Captain Nimham, of Stockbridge, and he will tell you
about the whole matter more than I can write. I hope
your warriours will come and see me. So I bid all my
brother Indians farewell. Ethan Allen,

" Colonel of the Green Mountain Boys."

This, gentlemen, is a copy of the letter I have sent the
Indians; I hope it may have a good effect. I thought it
advisable that the Honourable Assembly should be informed
of all our politicks. And am, gentlemen, with the greatest
respect, your most obedient and humble servant,

Ethan Allen.
The Honourable General Assembly.

BENEDICT ARNOLD TO THE MASSACHUSETTS COMMITTEE
OF SAFETY.

Crown Point, May 26, 1775.

Gentlemen: My last was of the 23d instant; I then
advised you of the situation of matters here, since which
there has been no material alteration. Very few men have
arrived. We have fixed the sloop with six carriage and
twelve swivel guns ; the schooner with four carriage and
eight swivels. Both vessels are in good order, and toler-
ably well manned. Eight gentlemen having arrived from
Hartford, who are seamen, I have sent two ten-inch iron

715

CORRESPONDENCE, PROCEEDINGS, kc, MAY, 1775.

716

mortars, and two eight-inch hrass mortars, and two eight-
inch howitzers, to Ticonderoga, to be forwarded to Fort
George.

You may depend on my sending the cannon from this
place as soon as possible. There are three thirteen-inch
iron mortars here — beg to know what 1 shall do with them.
J have received large donations of flour, pork, peas, 8tc,
from Albany — near seventy barrels — and I am informed
there is a large quantity on the road from that place, and a
quantity supplied from Connecticut.

The advice I received from ButterJieJJ, and communi-
cated in the postscript of my last, of the 23d instant,
proves to be premature. I have good intelligence from a
batteau immediately from St. John's, which place she left
on the 19th instant, that the Regulars were returned to
Chamblce. I am, with great respect, gentlemen, your obe-
dient servant, Benedict Arnold.

To the Commitee of Safety, Cambridge.

LETTER FROM THE MASSACHUSETTS CONGRESS TO THE

NEW-YORK CONGRESS.

In Provincial Congress, at YVatertown, )
May 26, 1775. J

" Resolved, That the following Letter be sent to the
Provincial Congress of the Colony of New-York, now
sitting in that Colony."

Gentlemen: Enclosed are copies of a letter from Col-
onel Arnold, and a list of military stores at Ticonderoga,
&ic. You cannot fail to observe that Mr. Arnold, for the
defence of this Colony, is endeavouring that such ordnance
as he judges can be spared from that quarter, should be
transported to the army in this Colony. This step is taken
in consequence of orders given by our Committee of Safe-
ty. Perhaps this may appear to you extraordinary, but
we trust you will candidly overlook such a mistake (if it is
one,) being made in the hurry and confusion of war ; and
we most solemnly declare to you, that this Congress, and
the inhabitants of this Colony, are at the utmost remove
from any disposition or design to make any the least in-
fraction upon, or usurpation of the jurisdiction of any of
our sister Colonies. And if any of those cannon, &c,
taken at the Lake Champlain, should happen, through the
exertions of enterprising spirits, to be brought within the
allowed limits of this Colony, and come to our use, we
shall hold ourselves accountable for them to the Repre-
sentatives of the Continent; and whenever they shall in-
form us that they are more needed for the general defence
at any other part of the Continent than in this Colony, we
shall endeavour that they be removed thither with the utmost
despatch. As to the expediency and policy of endeavour-
ing to maintain those old fortresses near Lake Champlain,
or abating them, and erecting others in some other places
upon the same lake, or abandoning those posts, and bring-
ing oft" all the ordnance and warlike stores in those posts,
we conceive that the advice of the Continental Congress
ought to be obtained, and we have therefore addressed them
in the most pressing manner, being of opinion that the
maintaining a post there is absolutely necessary for the
defence of your, and all the New-England Colonies.

Gentlemen and brethren, could you have seen the hor-
rid devastation and carnage in this Colony, committed by
ministerial Troops, those sons of violence, who have got
some footing in this Colony, the breach of a most solemn
treaty with respect to the inhabitants of Boston, when they
had surrendered their arms, and put themselves wholly in
the power of a military commander, relying upon his faith,
then pledged, that they should immediately depart the
Town with their effects as stipulated, which was no sooner
done than they were positively refused permission to carry
out the most valuable part of those effects, but their persons
detained under the most idle pretences, and suffered only
to scatter from their prison a few in a day, hardly to be
seen or noticed ; we say, gentlemen, could you see and re-
alize these scenes of distress, you could not refrain one
moment from doing every thing in your power to prevent
the like distress from happening to your metropolis, and
availing yourselves of every article, which an enemy can
improve with the least advantage to themselves, for effecting
the like desolation, horrours, and insults on the inhabitants
of your City and Colony, or which might enable you to

make the most effectual defence. Have you not, gentle-
men, divers of those articles as it were under your hand?
If you should delay securing them until they should be out
of your power, and within a few days you should behold
those very materials improved in murdering you, and your-
selves perishing for the want of them, will not your chagrin
and regret be intolerable? Brethren, pardon our impor-
tunity. It is our own ca-e. Don't we daily behold Castle
Jl il/iam, and realize the ample warlike provisions and ap-
paratus therein, held by our enemies, to our infinite and inex-
pressible mortification ? We wish to heaven that you may be
timely admonished by the consequence of our delay.

JOSEPH HAWLEY TO THE MASSACHUSETTS COMMITTEE OF
SAFETY.

Watertown, May 2G, 17".'>.

Gf.ntlemen : The Congress have directed a Commit-
tee, of which I have the honour to be Chairman, to apply
to you forthwith for copies of the commission, and every
paper containing the appointment of Colonel Benedict
Arnold, to a secret warlike enterprise to the westward ; of
the instructions given him by you ; of your engagements to
him in behalf of this Colony; and authority to raise a Re-
giment to be in the pay of this Colony, if any such author-
ity was given him by you ; his orders respecting the ord-
nance at Ticonderoga, and places on Lake Champlain ; and
every thing necessary to give the Congress a full under-
standing of the relation Colonel Arnold then stood, and
now stands in to this Colony, and send them as soon as
possible to us by Captain Brown. I am, gentlemen, with
the greatest respect, your most obedient servant,

Joseph Hawley.

To the Committee of Safety.

BENJAMIN GREENLEAF TO THE MASSACHUSETTS CONGRESS.

Newburyport, May 26, 1775.

Sir : 1 yesterday received your letter of the 19th instant,
informing me that the Provincial Congress had done me
the honour of choosing me a member of the Committee
of Safety, and that they requested my attendance without
delay. I readily exert myself on every occasion that pre-
sents, as far as I am able, to promote such measures as have
a tendency to relieve the Country from its present difficul-
ties and embarrassments ; but my ill state of health forbids
my attending closely to business, and therefore disqualifies
me to act in that department with advantage to the pub-
lick or myself, for which reason I have to entreat the indul-
gence of the Congress while I ask to be excused from that
service ; assuring them I cannot be an indifferent observer
of scenes that are now acting; but as I have hitherto attend-
ed to our publick affairs as far as my health would permit,
almost to the total neglect of my own personal concerns, I
shall continue to do so, if my life is spared, until this land
obtains a complete deliverance from the hands of tyranny
and oppression ; but then it must be in a sphere wherein I
shall not be liable to so much confinement and solicitude
as I must necessarily submit to as a member of that Com-
mittee. I am, with respect, Sir, your most humble ser-
vant, B. Greenleaf.
To Mr. Freeman, Secretary of the Provincial Congress.

COMMITTEE OF SAFETY TO THE MASSACHUSETTS CON-
GRESS.

Cambridge, May 26, 1775.

The Committee of Safety beg leave to represent to your
Honours the conduct of Jonathan Brewer, of Waltham.
Said Brewer was recommended to this Committee as a
suitable person to take orders to enlist a Regiment on the
present establishment, and accordingly received ten sets of
orders from this Committee for that purpose. Since that,
various complaints have been made to us relative to his
conduct. When he gave out his enlisting orders he made
proclamation that he had received orders to enlist a Regi-
ment of Rangers, and gave some of his Captains written
orders accordingly, directly contrary to the orders he re-
ceived from this Committee, and in that way drew off men
from the companies and regiments, which occasioned great
uneasiness and frequent complaints. He has, without any
orders or directions, taken into his service two horses — one

717

CORRESPONDENCE, PROCEEDINGS, Inc., MAY, 1775.

718

belonging to Colonel Jones, the other to Colonel Taylor —
and lias kept them for several weeks past. He has also
given a lease of pan of Colonel Jones's real estate, without
the least pretence of right, and taken security therefore in
his own name.

Although this Committee were first induced to give the
said Brewer enlisting orders for raising a Regiment, from
the character they had of him as being courageous, and
experienced in war, &ic, they are now fully convinced,
from the evidence they have since had of the low artifices
and impositions he has made use of to obtain the small
number of men he has returned, his seizing private pro-
perty and converting it to his own use, in a manner that
cannot by any means be justified, and which we fear will
be improved by our inveterate enemies to the dishonour
and detriment of this Colony, he is unworthy of confidence.
Upon the whole, we apprehend he has not only disqual-
ified himself for serving this Colony, as a Colonel of a
Regiment, but ought immediately to be dealt with in such
a manner as you in your wisdom shall think proper.
We are, &c.

Til P. MASSACHUSETTS CONGRESS TO THE NEW-HAMPSHIRE
CONGRESS.

Watertown, May 26, 1775.

Gentlemen: We received your favour of the 23d in-
stant, wherein you inform us of your determination to raise
immediately two thousand men for the common defence of
America.

It gives us the greatest pleasure and satisfaction to ob-
serve the present concordant temper and disposition so
prevalent throughout the several Colonies, in support of
their common rights. Such a remarkable unanimity, under
the smiles of a kind Providence, can scarcely fail of suc-
ceeding to the utmost of our sanguine wishes. We trust,
gentlemen, our cause is just and right; and that to submit
to the vassalage and slavery of an unconscionable Adminis-
tration, would not only be ignominious, but highly deroga-
tory to the spirit and resentment of free and loyal Ameri-
cans; and although the horrours and devastation of war are
highly deprecated by us, yet pressing necessity urges to
the utmost of our exertion, in the preservation of every
tiling dear to us, (even life itself,) by a resolute opposition
to our unwearied and unnatural enemies. We therefore
earnestly request you, gentlemen, to forward with all speed
those Troops you are raising, to co-operate with us against
the common enemy, hoping, under the Divine protection,
to convince even the British Parliament of their unreason-
able, rash, and inconsiderate proceedings against a most
injured and cruelly oppressed people. We are, gentlemen,
with sincere affection, your most obedient humble servants,

By order: Joseph Warren, Pres't pro tern.

To the Hon. Congress of New-Hampshire Colony.

BENJAMIN BULLARD AND OTHERS TO THE MASSACHUSETTS
COMMITTEE OF SAFETY.

Cambridge, May 26, 1775.
Gentlemen : We, the subscribers, being highly dissatis-
fied with the alteration that is likely to take place respect-
ing the field-officers in Colonel Nixon's Regiment, as we
took out enlisting orders under Colonel John Nixon, Lieu-
tenant-Colonel Jacob Miller, and Major Nathaniel Cud-
worth, with the expectation that they were to be the esta-
blished field-officers of the Regiment, especially as we were
at the choice of said gentlemen, and knowing the choice
to be fair and above board ; and every gentleman present
appeared to be pleased with the same ; therefore, we think
it a great grievance that, after they had been at the trouble
of recruiting, and had almost filled up our respective com-
panies before we had any notice of any design to make an
alteration in the leaders of said Regiment. And further,
that we were to come to a new choice with men that were
not nominated with us, to be in our corps as Captains.
And furthermore, that several Lieutenants should act in
behalf of their Captains, they being not present ; and one
Lieutenant saying at the same time he had no thought of
tarrying in the Army. All which we think to be sufficient
reasons that the first choice stands fair, and the last the
contrary. Therefore, as we are earnest to be in the service

in the defence of our Country, (if the last choice is estab-
lished,) beg leave to have the privilege of joining in some
other Regiment. And as in duty bound shall ever pray.
Renj. liuLLARD, Captain,
.John Lelanh, Captain,
Tuos. Drurv, Captain,
Thaddeus Russell, Captain.
To the Honourable Committee of Safety.

FREDERICK COUNTY (VIRGINIA) COMMITTEE.

Resolved unanimously, That the thanks of this Commit-
tee be presented to the Reverend Charles Minn Thruston
and Colonel Isaac Zane, who represented this County in
the late Convention, from a just sensibility of a faithful
discharge of the trust reposed in them.

Resolved unanimously, That this Committee do recom-
mend to the Representatives of this County to use their
influence in the ensuing session of Assembly, to procure
adequate satisfaction to the officers and soldiers who bravely
ventured their lives in defence of their Country, in the late
expedition against the Indians; and also to those who ad-
vanced their property on the credit of the publick, for the
support of the Army.

Whereas, it is expected that proposals will be made to
the Assembly, on behalf of Administration, to levy a cer-
tain sum of money annually, disposable by Parliament: it
is therefore earnestly recommended to our Representatives
to oppose such proposal to the utmost of their abilities, and
to express their determined resolution to reject any propo-
sition whatever which may be offered, while an armed force
remains on this Continent, for the purpose of compelling
submission to Parliamentary mandates; and every requisi-
tion for levying money on their constituents, coming through
any other channel than the official servants of the Crown,
the use to which such moneys are to be applied being al-
ways expressed in such requisitions. And we would have
it understood, as the sense of this Committee, that no mea-
sures with Administration, which may affect the liberties of
America, ought to be agreed to on behalf of this Colony,
without the concurrence of our sister Colonies.

Resolved unanimously, That the several arbitrary and
illegal Proclamations lately issued by Lord Dunmore, his
seizure of the Colony Powder, and his gross misrepresent-
ations of the state of this Colony to the Ministry, render it
highly necessary to regard with peculiar attention whatever
comes through his hands.

Ordered, That the Clerk transmit a copy of the above
to the publick Printer. William Heth, Clerk.

May 27, 1775.

prince George's county (Maryland) committee.

At a meeting of the Committee of Observation for
Prince George's County, at the house of Richard Carnes,
in Piscataway, on Saturday, the 27th day of May, 1775,
were present nineteen members.

Thomas Baily failing to appear, according to former re-
ference, with the evidence proposed from Baltimore, the
Committee proceeded to consider the charges against him ;
and as it appeared from the said Baily's own declaration,
that he was informed at Alexandria, before he landed the
Salt, that the ship-load of Salt which arrived at Baltimore,
consigned to Doctor John Stevenson, was declared to be
illegally imported, and ordered to be destroyed ; they do
resolve, that the said Thomas Baily has committed a wilful
violation of the Continental Association, by selling and land-
ing the Salt imported in the Sally, Captain Moate.

The Committee being informed that Mr. John Bayncs,
of Piscataway, has killed a Lamb, contrary to the Resolve
of the Provincial Convention, held at Annapolis, in De-
cember last, Messrs. Luke Marbury and George Diggs
were sent to inform him that the Committee desired his
immediate attendance. Mr. Baynes appeared, and being
informed as above, acknowledged that he had killed a
Lamb, and conceived that he had not thereby violated the
Continental Association, which he purposed to adhere to,
and thought it superiour to the Provincial Convention,
which he conceived was only intended to carry the Re-
solves of the Continental Congress into execution.

Resolved, That the said Mr. Baynes, in killing the said
Lamb, has violated the Resolve of the Provincial Conven-

719

CORRESPONDENCE, PROCEEDINGS, fee., MAY, 1775.

720

lion; that such measures may be of mischievous conse-
quence, as lending to a create a disregard to publick regu-
lations, formed for preserving the liberties of America.

Ordered, That a copy of these proceedings be signed
by the Chairman, and sent to be published in the Mary-
land Gazette. By order of the Committee :

Josias Beall, Chairman.

ASSEMBLY OF CONNECTICUT TO THE MASSACHUSETTS
CONGRESS.

Hartford, May 27, 1775.

Gentlemen: You have doubtless received the advice
of the Continental Congress, relative to the important for-
tress and pass of Ticonderoga and Crown Point. We
esteem it necessary to be guided by their opinion in every
important transaction, and have great satisfaction in their
approbation of the capture made of those posts ; and their
advice relating to removing the cannon, &ic, to the south
end of Lake George, and making a stand there, must pro-
bably be complied with, unless they, upon further consid-
eration, shall alter their opinion, and advise to making the
stand at one or both the aforesaid forts, which this House
and Assembly judge to be much more expedient, on many
obvious accounts, and have several days since signified their
opinion to our Delegates at said Congress ; and for these
and other reasons, hope for their concurrence.

The bearer, Captain Phelps, who has been very active
and useful in the captures, is just arrived with important
advices from Colonel Arnold, of an expected attack speed-
ily from Governour Carleton, and is charged with the same
advices from Mr. Arnold to you. In consequence of
them, and the imminent danger the people there are ex-
posed to, our Assembly have just ordered five hundred
pounds of our pittance of powder to be forthwith sent to
them ; and also four companies to march for their present
relief, and have advised the New-York Provincial Con-
gress of this step ; and also are now despatching advice of
the same to the Continental Congress ; and also again set-
ting forth the advantage of maintaining a post at Ticonde-
roga or Crown Point, and suggesting our wishes that they
reconsider their advice. In the mean time you may be
assured that we have no just claim to the acquisition or the
command of them, as in the least degree to interfere with
any measures you may think proper to adopt relating to
them, and consider what we have done as a small and tem-
porary relief.

I am, gentlemen, in the name and behalf of the House
of Representatives, your most obedient and very humble
servant. By order : Wm. Williams, Speaker.

circumstantial account or the battle at CHELSEA,

HOG ISLAND, ETC, IN MASSACHUSETTS.

On Saturday, May 27, 1775, a party of the American
Army at Cambridge, to the number of between two and
three hundred men, had orders to drive off the live stock
from Hog and Noddle Islands, which lie near Chelsea,
Winnesimmet, on the northeast side of Boston Harbour.
From Chelsea to Hog Island, at low water, it is but about
knee high, and from that to Noddle's Island about the same.
The stock on the former belonging to Mr. Oliver Wendell,
at Boston, and Mr. Jonathan Jackson, at Newburyport ;
that on Noddle's Island was owned by Mr. Williams, of
Boston, who hires the island.

About eleven o'clock, A. M., between twenty and thirty
men went from Chelsea to Hog Island, and from thence to
Noddle's Island, to drive off the stock which was there,
but were interrupted by a schooner and sloop despatched
from the fleet in Boston Harbour, and forty Marines, who
had been stationed on the island to protect the live stock.
However, they sent off two fine English stallions, two colts,
and three cows, killed fifteen horses, two colts, and three
cows, burnt a large barn full of salt, hay, and an old farm-
house. By this time they were fired on from the schooner
and sloop, and a large number of Marines in boats, sent
from the several men-of-war ; upon which they retreated
to a ditch on the marsh, and kept themselves undiscovered
till they had an opportunity to (ire on the Marines, when
they shot down two dead, and wounded two more, one of
whom died soon after. They then retreated to Hog Island,
where they were joined by the remainder of their party

from Chelsea, and drove off all the stock thereon, viz:
between three and four hundred sheep and lambs, some
cows, horses, &tc. During this there were firings between
the Provincials and the schooner, sloop, boats, and Ma-
rines, on the other island.

Having cleared Hog Island, the Provincials drew up on
Chelsea Neck, and sent for a reinforcement of three hun-
dred men and two pieces of cannon, (four-pounders,) which
arrived about nine o'clock in the evening ; soon after which
General Putnam went down and hailed the schooner, and
told the people that if they would submit they should have
good quarters, which the schooner returned with two can-
non shot ; this was immediately answered with two cannon
from the Provincials: upon this a very heavy fire ensued
from both sides, which lasted till eleven o'clock at night,
when the fire from the schooner ceased ; the fire from the
shore being so hot that her people were obliged to quit her
and take to the boats, a great number of which had been
sent from the ships to their assistance, and also a large re-
inforcement of Marines sent to Noddle's Island, with two
twelve-pounders.

The schooner being thus left, drove ashore, where, about
break-of-day, the Provincials carried some hay under her
stern, and set her on fire, the sloop keeping tip a small
fire upon them ; at which time a heavy cannonading was
begun at Noddle's Island Hill, with the twelve-pounders,
upon the Provincials ; also General Putnam kept a heavy
fire upon the sloop, which disabled her much, and killed
many of her men, so that she was obliged to be towed off
by the boats, when the firing ceased, except a few shot
which were exchanged between the party at Chelsea, and
the Marines on Noddle's Island. Thus ended this long
action, without the loss of one Provincial, and only four
wounded, one of whom was wounded by the bursting of
his own gun, and another only lost his little finger. The
loss of the enemy amounted to twenty killed, and fifty
wounded. The Provincials took out of the schooner four
double fortified four-pounders, twelve swivels, chief of her
rigging and sails, many clothes, some money, &tc, which
the Sailors and Marines left behind, they having quitted
in great haste.

COMPLAINT AGAINST LIEUT. COLONEL ABIJAH BROWN.

Waltham, May, 1775.

To the Honourable Committee of Safety now assembled at
Cambridge, Province of the Massachusetts-Bay:
Whereas a number of the inhabitants in and about Wal-
tham, in the County of Middlesex and Province aforesaid,
having a deep sense of their obligations to the Honourable
Committee for their services, upon information given, look
upon themselves in duty bound, to represent to them in
this publick manner, the repeated and publick insults and
abuses that the Honourable Committee and Congress are
from day to day treated with by one Abijah Brown, who
calls himself Lieutenant-Colonel, who, from time to time,
and in different company, in the most publick manner upon
the road, and in publick houses, where company of strangers
or town's people are on any occasion assembled, taking
such opportunity to declare, though in such profane lan-
guage that we must be excused from repeating, viz : that
the Congress had no power to do as they did ; for all the
power was and would be in the Army ; and if the Congress
behaved as they did, that within forty-eight hours the Army
would turn upon the Congress, and they would settle mat-
ters as they pleased ; that there would be nothing done
but what would be done by the Army ; and with respect
to the General and Committee, that they had no more right
or power to give their orders to remove the cannon and
stores from Waltham, than one John Stewart, who is a
poor unhappy man, that is non compos mentis; hereby rep-
resenting the General and Committees as a set of idiots and
lunaticks, in order to lessen and bring into contempt the
power and authority of the Province, at this very important
day. This conduct, from one assuming rank in the Army,
in and about Head-Quarters where the Army is, and his
reasons for such conduct, we leave every one to judge for
himself, &c.

We therefore would humbly pray that your Honours
would be pleased to take into your consideration this very
dangerous matter, before it is too late, and before the seeds

721

CORRESPONDENCE, PROCEEDINGS, &c, MAY, 1775.

722

of discord and mutiny have taken too deep root, and take
such steps to put an end to it, as well as to him, with regard
to his being any way concerned in the Army, as your
Honours in your wisdom shall see fit. Abner Sander*, John
Sanders, Jedediah White, Peter Ball, Eleazer Bradshaw,
fy-c, of Waltham, and Captain Abijah Child, now in the
Army, stand ready, upon any day that your Honours may
appoint, to appear and give your Honours the fullest proofs
of what is here set forth, though this is but in part.
Jonas Dix, 1

Nath'l Bridge, I Selectmen of
Josiah Brown, [ Waltham.
John Clark, J

COMMITTEE OF SAFETY TO THE PROVINCIAL CONGRESS.

In Committee of Safety, Cambridge, )
May 27, 1775. $

Gentlemen : This Committee having received informa-
tion from sundry persons, Selectmen of the Town of Wal-
tham, respecting the conduct of Major Abijah Brown, of
said Wahham, informing that he, the said Brown, at sun-
dry times and in sundry places, did utter many things dis-
respectful and reflecting on the conduct of said Provincial
Congress, the several Committees, and upon the General
of the Colony Army, this Committee, apprehending that
any determination on this case is out of the department of
this Committee, beg leave to refer this matter, with the
evidences respecting the same, to your Honours, that you
may be furnished with such light as may enable you to de-
termine thereon, as to you in your wisdom shall seem meet.
We are your Honours' most obedient humble servants,
Benjamin White, Chairman.

To the Honourable Provincial Congress.

In Provincial Congress, Watertown, )
May, 1775. I

The Committee appointed to examine into the complaint
against Lieutenant-Colonel Brown, beg leave to make the
following Report, viz :

That after a full hearing of the allegations and proofs
for and against said Brown, on the complaint of some un-
known persons, through the Selectmen of Waltham, to this
honourable Congress, we are of sentiment that an unhappy
controversy has existed in said Town, relating to publick
affairs, in which said Brown has exerted himself very earn-
estly in favour of the cause of liberty, by which means
he has disgusted several persons, who have since endeav-
oured therefor to censure and stigmatize him as being an
officious, busy, and designing man ; and, unhappily, it ap-
pears that Mr. Brown has associated in taverns indiscrimi-
nately with many persons, in discourse with whom he at
some times inadvertently expressed himself, which he could
not strictly justify himself in, and that it is evident those
disaffected antagonists of Mr. Brown had taken the advan-
tage of his halting purely from revenge; and the Commit-
tee adjudge, from the whole of the evidence for and against
said Brown, that he is injuriously treated by the secret
resentments of designing persons, and that he ought to be
reinstated to the esteem and countenance of every friend
to the liberties of this Country. Per order :

Richard Perkins, Chairman.

the Massachusetts congress to the continental
congress.

[Read in Congress June 2, 1775.]

Watertown, May 27, 1775.

May it please your Honours: Enclosed are copies
of a letter from Colonel B. Arnold, (dated Crown Point,
May 19th,) and a list of military stores at Ticonderoga,
&tc. It seems that the step Colonel Arnold is taking in
transporting into this Colony part of the ordnance taken
at Lake Champlain, is in consequence of orders given him
by our Committee of Safety ; and if they had considered
the proposal in a calmer season, perhaps they might have
thought it would have been proper previously to have con-
sulted our brethren of the Colony of New-York ; certain
it is, that this Colony is in the most pressing need of the
ordnance which Colonel Arnold is transporting hither. On

Fourth Series. — Vol. ii. 4G

this occasion, we beg leave most solemnly to assure your
Honours that nothing can be more abhorrent to the temper
and spirit of this Congress and the people of this Colony,
than any attempt to usurp on the jurisdiction of any of
our sister Colonies, which, upon a superficial consideration
of this step, there may seem to be some appearance of.
But we assure ourselves that such is the candour and
generous sentiments of our brethren of New- York, as
that we may rest secure that they will readily overlook
this mistake, (if it is one,) committed in the haste of
war, and which may be naturally attributed thereto. And
if any of the cannon should arrive within the limits of this
Colony we shall hold ourselves accountable for them to
your Honours, or any succeeding Representatives of the
Continent.

May it please your Honours, permit us to observe, that
in our opinion nothing can be more obvious than the infi-
nite importance to the safety of the inhabitants of the
Colonies of New- York, New- Hampshire, and even Con-
necticut, than maintaining, holding, and effectually securing
the post at Ticonderoga, or some spot near the southwest
end of Lake Champlain; for if that post is abandoned, the
whole of Lake Champlain will be commanded by the Gov-
ernment of Canada, and the command of that water will
amazingly facilitate all such descents upon these Colonies,
whether greater or less, which Administration shall see fit
to order. But if that post should be held by the Colo-
nies, all such attempts for the destruction of the Colonies,
may be vastly obstructed, if not wholly defeated. We
have, therefore, the most full confidence that your Honours
will immediately take these matters into your most serious
consideration, and make such order thereon as will appear
most fit and reasonable, and most conducive to the general
safety.

We would further humbly suggest that we stand in need
of large quantities of gunpowder, and it is impossible to
obtain that article from any quarter this way ; we therefore
most earnestly entreat your Honours that some effectual
measures may be devised that we may be supplied with
that most necessary means of defence ; and we find that
the deficiency of that article prevails in all the Colonies.
We most earnestly press this matter, as the salvation of
these Colonies depends so much thereon. We would not
presume to dictate to your Honours, but would quere
whether it would not be prudent to advertise all Nations
of the opportunities they now have to dispose of that article
in America, as the best market.

We have the strongest persuasion that the settled plan
of the British Administration is to break the chain of
union of the Colonies at New-York; and we are sure that
the evidence of such design, and their machinations for
that purpose, cannot escape your attention.

We confide in the wisdom and vigilance of your Hon-
ours to devise such measures as (under God) will effect-
ually defeat a plan so fatal, and which, if effected, will be
the destruction of all the Colonies. We are, with the
greatest respect, yours, &c.

By order of the Provincial Congress :

Joseph Warren, Pres't pro tern.

THE MASSACHUSETTS CONGRESS TO THE ASSEMBLY OF
CONNECTICUT.

Watertown, May 27, 1775.

Gentlemen : Enclosed are copies of a letter from Col-
onel Arnold, dated May 19, 1775, and a list of military
stores at Ticonderoga, &c. We wrote to you (of the
17th instant) relative to that fortress, &c, and were desi-
rous that you would give such orders relative thereto as to
you should seem meet ; but we are of opinion that the
advice of the Continental Congress should be had thereon
as soon as may be, and also the particular advice of the
Provincial Congress of New- York, to each of whom we
have wrote upon this matter. Those fortresses being within
the jurisdiction of the Colony of New-York, we are of
opinion that it is necessary to consult them upon a matter
in which they are so greatly interested.

We have appointed and directed Colonel Joseph Hen-
shaw to repair to you, and consult with you upon the affair
of that fortress, the maintenance of which we think of the
utmost importance to the security of New- York and the

723

CORRESPONDENCE, PROCEEDINGS, &c, MAY, 177.J.

721

New-England Colonies. His instructions will be laid before
you, and we have no doubt you will take such measures
relative thereto as will promote the general safety of these
Colonies.

To the Honourable the Governour and Company of the
Colony of Connecticut.

MASSACHUSETTS CONGRESS TO COL. BENEDICT ARNOLD.

Watertown, May 27, 1775.

Sir : We have, this day, with pleasure, received your
letter to the Committee of Safety, of the 19th instant, by
Captain Broun, and return you our hearty thanks for
your exertions in the publiek cause, and fully agree with
you that the interposition of Providence, in this and many
other instances, is apparent, for which we have the great-
est cause for thankfulness.

We are clearly of opinion that keeping Ticonderoga is
a matter of great importance, and we make no doubt the
honourable Continental Congress will take that affair imme-
diately under their wise consideration, and give all neces-
sary orders therefor, as we have addressed them most
earnestly on the subject.

You inform us that you have had intimations that some
persons were determined to apply, in order to injure your
character. If any such applications should be made here,
you may be assured we shall be so candid as not to suffer
any impressions to your disadvantage, until you shall have
opportunity to vindicate your conduct.

We enclose a Resolve of this Congress, appointing and
directing Colonel Joseph Henshaiv to repair to Hartford,
and consult with the General Assembly there, upon this
important matter, by which you will see the resolution this
Congress has taken relative thereto.

We would just add, that the letter you refer to, of the
14th instant, by Colonel Romans, has not come to hand,
so that no order can be taken thereon. We are, he.

To Colonel Benedict Arnold, Ticonderoga.

INSTRUCTIONS TO COLONEL HENSHAW, DELEGATE TO CON-
NECTICUT AND CROWN POINT.

In Provincial Congress, Watertown, )
May 27, 1775. \

Resolved, That Colonel Joseph Ilenshaw be appointed
and directed to repair to Hartford, and inquire whether
provision is made by the General Assembly of the Colony
of Connecticut for securing and maintaining the fortress at
Ticonderoga and the adjacent posts; and if that Assembly
has made provision for that purpose, the said Colonel Hen-
shaw proceed directly to Ticonderoga and acquaint Col-
onel Arnold that it is the order of this Congress that he
return, and render accounts of his expenses in that expe-
dition, in order that he may be honourably discharged; but
if Colonel Henshaw shall find that such provision is not
made, and the General Assembly not sitting, that he pro-
ceed to Ticonderoga, and inform Colonel Arnold that it
is the order of this Congress that he continue there, with
such a number of forces as said Colonel Henshaw shall
judge necessary, for the purpose. Nevertheless, if the
said Colonel Henshaw shall find the General Assembly
sitting, and have not made such provision, that he consult
with them touching this important matter, and take their
proposals, and immediately make report to the Congress
of this Colony.

COLONEL HENSHAW TO DR. J. WARREN.

Watertown, May 28, 1775.

Sir: I cannot proceed on my journey to Hartford and
Croion Point through want of the papers sent last even-
ing to Cambridge by Mr. Gill, to be attested. Mr. Gill
promised to bring me a horse and sulkey to proceed on as
far as Leicester, where I shall take a horse of my own,
there being none that may be obtained here. If he has
not provided me with a horse and sulkey already, he knows
where to do it, having your directions ; therefore you will
please to forward the papers, with a horse and sulkey, by
Mr. Gill, when I shall instantly proceed. I am your most
obedient servant, Jos. Henshaw.

MINUTES OF COLONEL JOSEPH HENSHAW S JOURNEY TO
CONNECTICUT.

Mnj 28, 1773. — At noon set off from Watertown for
Hartford and Ticonderoga.

Wednesday noon. — Arrived at Hartford; delivered the
letter to the Governour and Council, with whom had a
conference respecting the fortress at Ticonderoga , before
dinner.

P. M. — Attended the House, with whom conferred on
the same subject, and desired a conference by a Commit-
tee, which was granted, and a joint Committee of the
Council and House appointed for that purpose ; from whom
I understood that intelligence had been received from the
Continental Congress and JScw-York, which had been
forwarded to the Provincial Congress since my departure,
that the Continental Congress had recommended to New-
Yorlc to maintain the fortress, anil remove such cannon as
may not be wanted, &,c. ; that New-York had requested
Connecticut to provide for the safely of the post till Ntw-
Yorlc could take it on themselves ; that in consequence
thereof Connecticut had ordered one thousand men to Ti-
conderoga, under Colonel Hinman, with artificers, anil five
hundred pounds of powder, provisions, &.C., and were
about to send up an engineer ; that four Companies were
raising in Albany for the same purpose ; that considering
the intelligence received by our Congress since my depar-
ture, it was the unanimous opinion of the Committee it
would be advisable to return immediately there before 1
proceeded to Ticonderoga, as it would not make more
than two or three days difference, and it was probable the
Congress would have some fresh instructions to furnish me
with from said intelligence ; that Connecticut expects we
shall not draw off our forces, but leave them to co-operate
with theirs for the defence of the post ; that a Colonel and
two Majors are appointed over the Connecticut forces, &c.

Thursday, June 1. — Waited till noon for Capt. Brown,
who was to meet me at Hartford, and then proceed to
Ticonderoga, but he not coming, I wrote to Colonel Ar-
nold, and left the letter, with others, for Captain Brown to
take on his arrival at Hartford, and proceed to Ticonde-
roga, when I set off for the Congress.

COLONEL HENSHAW TO COLONEL BENEDICT ARNOLD.

Hartford, May 31, 1775.

Sir: By Captain Brown I would advise you of my
consulting the General Assembly of this Colony respecting
the fortress at Ticonderoga. They have ordered Colonel
Hinman to take the command there with one thousand
men, and four Companies raising at Albany, artificers, Sic,
to repair and defend that post. It is expected you will
continue with Colonel Allen, and put the place in the
best posture of defence you are able, and guard against
any surprise from the enemy till the succours arrive, and
you receive further directions from the Congress. I should
have proceeded from hence to Ticonderoga, but some
events taking place since my departure from the Congress,
makes it necessary for me to repair immediately thither.

I am, Sir, your most obedient servant,

Joseph Henshaw.

SELECTMEN OF PARTR1DGEFIELD TO THE MASSACHUSETTS
CONGRESS.

Partridgcfield, May 27, 1775.

Gentlemen : The Selectmen of the Town of Par-
tridgefield having received a message from the Provincial
Congress, dated at Concord, March 31, 1775, requiring the
speedy payment of some money to Henry Gardner, Esq.,
of Stow, they immediately warned a town-meeting, and
the inhabitants being assembled, and taking into considera-
tion the present circumstances of the Town, they unani-
mously voted that, considering the present circumstances
of the Town, they were not able to pay the tax required
of them by the Provincial Congress ; and also voted that
the Town Clerk should write to the Congress, and give
them some information concerning the present circum-
stances of the Town — a specimen of which is as follows,
viz: This Town is but new, and but few people in it, and
the generality of them are people of low fortunes ; and it

725

CORRESPONDENCE, PROCEEDINGS, he, MAY, 1115.

726

is not long since we were at great expense (for us) in set-
tling a Minister in the Town ; and as our farms are mostly
new, and our land not quick to produce a crop, we are
obliged every year to buy a great part of our provision ;
and this year especially, as the blast and vermin destroyed
a great part of our grain the last year. We have no Town
stock of ammunition, nor do we know how to procure it,
as all the money we can get must go to purchase the ne-
cessaries of life. I am apt to think there is as many men
gone and going from this Town in defence of the liberties and
privileges of America, as from any Town in this Province,
if not more, according to the number of people in this and
the other Towns. And we should be as free with our
money as with our men, if we had it, and could possibly
spare it. The taxes which the Great and General Court
of this Province was pleased to lay upon this Town, we
petitioned to be relieved of, and not altogether without
success. And we hope the Congress will be graciously-
pleased to excuse us for not complying with their requisi-
tions, when it was not in our power to do it.
In the name and in behalf of the Town,

Nathaniel Stowell, Town Clerk.

To the Honourable the Provincial Congress, held at JVa-
tertown.

CONDITION OF NEW-HAMPSHIRE, AS DELIVERED BY THEIR
DELEGATES TO THE CONTINENTAL CONGRESS, MAY 27,

1775.

The Delegates from New-Hampshire beg leave to in-
form the Committee, that two of the principal Towns in
that Colony, viz: Portsmouth and Neivcastle, are situate
on Piscataqua River, near the entrance of the harbour,
and are much exposed to naval attacks ; that those Towns
are about five miles distance from each other, Portsmouth,
the capital, lying farthest up the river, and not quite so
much exposed as Newcastle, which lies at the entrance, de-
fended only by a fort capable of mounting about thirty pieces
of cannon, in the rampart ; but the fortifications are ex-
tremely weak. That to defend the entrance of the harbour
against a naval force, would be extremely difficult, if not
impracticable ; that batteries might be erected between
those Towns, which, with booms, chains, &c, might pos-
sibly secure Portsmouth from such attack ; that to defend
the pass, and secure the retreat of the inhabitants, will re-
quire at least fifteen hundred men. But as they have a well-
regulated Militia in that neighbourhood, which may suddenly
be called together for that purpose, they are of opinion
there will be no necessity of enlisting men at the Conti-
nental expense, especially as the Militia will readily agree
to serve in turn for the defence of those places.

They beg leave further to inform the Committee, that
there are sixteen Regiments of Foot, and two of Horse, in
that Colony, the Foot amounting in the whole to upwards
of sixteen thousand effective men, tolerably well provided
with arms and ammunition ; that the number of the Horse
is uncertain, and those but ill provided ; that great num-
bers of their Foot soldiers have been in actual service ; and
that out of those they are ready to raise and send to serve
in Massachusetts, so many as the Committee shall choose
to order ; that the number of their inhabitants are very
uncertain, as persons are continually emigrating from other
Colonies, and settling in that more than in any other of the
Northern Colonies ; that the persons thus emigrating are
extremely poor, for which reason the wealth of the Prov-
ince bears no proportion to the number of inhabitants.

With respect to the amount of their Exports and Im-
ports, no accurate account can be given, as the officers of
the Customs have long since refused to suffer the books to
be inspected.

RECANTATION OF EBENEZER LOVERIN.

Kensington, New-Hampshire, May 27, 1775.

Whereas I have offended the community in times past,
by refusing to equip myself with arms and ammunition,
and by my opposition to military orders, for which I am
sorry : I hereby engage to equip myself according to or-
ders, and be ready to take up arms in defence of my Coun-
try, in the present contest between Great Britain and the
Colonies. Ebenezer Loverin.

GOUVERNEUR MORRIS TO RICHARD HENRY LEE.

New.York, May, 177.r>.

Dear Sir: When I had the honour of your company
and acquaintance at Philadelphia, you made it a request
that 1 would exert my poor abilities in the honest endea-
vour to keep my fellow-citizens in the line of their duty,
their interest, and honour. I freely made you the promise,
and I did honestly and faithfully perform it.

I am informed that the Committee of this City have
drawn up a representation of Mr. Rivington's case, for the
animadversions of that respectable body of which you are
a member. The consequence of this step will undoubtedly
strike your mind ; it is the giving a new power to the Con-
gress. Our Association hath given them the Legislative,
and this now tenders them the Judicial supremacy.

The power of Government, as of man, is to be collected
from small instances ; great affairs are more the objects of
reflection and policy. Here both join. A mild and favour-
able sentence will conciliate the opinions of mankind ; and
what is the force of opinion, a gentleman who has made it
his study to investigate the nature of Government, need
not be told. I will not pretend to offer you any reasoning
on this subject ; because it will be tedious to repeat things
which strike your mind at the first glance ; but I can venture
to assure you that a favourable sentence to this creature will
be highly agreeable to most men here. The history of his
conduct is simply this : His company, his acquaintances,
his friends, were warm advocates for the power of Govern-
ment ; indifferently wise, his mind took a wrong bias from
interest, deference for the sentiments of others, and oppo-
sition. A tool in prosperity, a cast-off in adversity, he
solicits the assistance of that body which his press has as-
persed. Magnanimity will dictate to that body the true
line of conduct.

The liberty I take in writing to you, can only be excused
by the intention I have to do good ; this, I trust, will be a
sufficient apology for, Sir, your most obedient and humble
servant, Gov. Morris.

Richard Henry Lee, Esq., Philadelphia.

RICHARD HENRY LEE TO GOUVERNEUR MORRIS.

Philadelphia, May 28, 1775.

Dear Sir : The friends of virtuous liberty in New- York
have certainly effected a most important change in the po-
litical system of that flourishing City. I congratulate you,
Sir, and your worthy associates, in this happy revolu-
tion. It is most certain that a profligate Ministry have
greatly relied on the assistance of your fine fertile Prov-
ince for carrying into execution their cruel system ; a sys-
tem by which existing millions, and millions yet unborn,
are to be plunged into the abyss of slavery, and of conse-
quence deprived of every distinction that marks the man
from the beast. But happily for the cause of humanity,
the Colonies are now united, and may bid defiance to tyran-
ny and its infamous abetters.

You will see that Mr. Rivington's case is involved in all
of a similar nature, which are to be determined on by the
Colony Conventions where the offence is committed. 1
am sorry, for the honour of human nature,' that this man
should have so prostituted himself in support of a cause
the most detestable that ever disgraced mankind. But he
repents, and should be forgiven. It is not yet too late to
exert his powers in defence of the liberty and just rights of
a much injured Country.

I wish you happy, Sir, and I assure you that I am, with
singular esteem, your friend and countryman,

Richard Henry Lee.

THE MASSACHUSETTS COMMITTEE OF SAFETY TO COLONEL
BENEDICT ARNOLD.

Cambridge, May 28, 1775.

The expedition to Ticonderoga, &tc, requiring secrecy,
the Congress of this Colony was not acquainted with the
orders you received from this Committee. It gives us great
pleasure to be informed by the express, Captain Brown,
that the success you have met with is answerable to your
spirit in the undertaking. We have now to acquaint you
that the Congress have taken up this matter, and given the
necessary directions respecting these acquisitions. It is,

727

CORRESPONDENCE, PROCEEDINGS, Sec, MAY, 1775.

72S

then, Sir, become your duty, and is our requirement, that
you conform yourself to such advice and orders as you shall
from time to time receive from that body. We are, &ic.

CHARLES COUNTY (MARYLAND) COMMITTEE.

Information being made to some of the members of the
Committee of this County, on Monday, the 29th of May,
that certain persons had imported, and were privately sell-
ing goods in a daring and direct violation of the Continen-
tal Association, a meeting of the Committee was imme-
diately called, and but few members attending, a general
meeting was publickly requested this day, when a very full
and respectable number attended at the Court-House, in
Port- Tobacco, to make inquiry into this affair; and it was
clearly and satisfactorily proved, that a certain John Bail-
lie, who last May came a passenger in the Ship Lady
Margaret, Captain William Noble, from Scotland, had
brought sundry Dry Goods with him, which appeared, by
the testimony of Baillie and Patrick Graham, living in
Port-Tobacco, to have been put on board and landed with-
out the consent or knowledge of the Captain, though Bail-
lie swore that Captain Noble knew of his having goods on
board the ship when he arrived in Wicomico. It also ap-
peared that Baillie, when he put these goods on board the
ship in Scotland, knew of the Continental Association, and
that Patrick Graham, in a secret manner, did assist and aid
him in taking them from on board the ship, and did privately
lake them into his house, and secretly sell a part thereof,
for his own and Baillie's interest, to several people in this
County, without letting them know the circumstances un-
der which they were imported. Whereupon the Commit-
tee Resolved, That the said John Baillie and Patrick
Graham, for their infamous conduct, ought to be publickly
known and held up as foes to the rights of British Ame-
rica, and universally contemned as the enemies of Ameri-
can liberty ; and that every person ought henceforth to
break off all dealings with the said John Baillie and Pa-
trick Graham; and as the ship which brought the goods
had sailed, and there being no opportunity of shipping and
sending them back to Britain, the Committee further

Resolved, That suoh of the goods as are unsold, or can
be collected from the purchasers, shall be stored with and
kept by Mr. Hephaniah Turner, until, and twelve months
after a general importation is agreed on by the Continental
Congress ; and that, where any of the goods which may
have been sold cannot be collected, the said Graham shall
deposite the amount of the sales thereof, in cash, to be
kept wjth the goods stored ; the whole at the risk of the
owners. Published by order of the Committee :

John Gwinn, Clerk.

NEW-YORK COMMITTEE.

The Committee met by adjournment, 29th May, 1775.
Present :

Henry Remsen,
Daniel Phenix,
Cornelius Clopper,
Gsorge Janeway,
John White,
Gabriel W. Ludlow,
Robert Ray,
Kvert Banker,
William Lught,
11 mij man Holme,
l\)tru» Byvanck,
Alex. McDougall,
Cqnfort Sands,
Nicholas Roosevelt,
Joseph Bull,
John Reade,
Thomas Randall,
Nicholas Hoffman,
Abraham Walton,

GabrH W. Ludlow,
John Morton,
William Seaton,
David Johnston,
John Imlay,
Eleazer Miller,
John Broome,
Theophilus Anthony,
John Lasher,
John B. Moore,
John Anthony,
John Berrian,
Poter Van Schaaok,
Lxncaster Burling,
WUliam Goforth,
Hercules Mulligan,
Oliver Templeton,
Joseph Totten,
John Van Cortlandt,

Thomas Smith,
Edward Fleming,
William Walton,
Abraham Brasher,
Cornelius P. Low,
James Dcsbrosses,
Francis Bassett,
Gjrret Ketletas,
Daniel Dunscomb,
Anthony Van Dam,
Abraham P. Lott,
Nicholas Bogart,
Hamilton Young,
Abraham Duryeo,
Peter T. Curtenius,
William W. Ludlow,
John Lamb,
David Beekman,
Jeremiah Piatt.

Ordered, That Mr. Seaton, Mr. Imlay, Mr. Berrian,
and Mr. Phenix, be a Sub-Committee to observe the con-
duct of the proprietors of goods imported in the Snow Patty,
Captain Sheppard, from Liverpool, during her stay in this
port, and to permit her being supplied with water and
other necessaries for her departure, and also to procure two
trusty persons, inhabitants of this City, to continue on
board while she remains in this harbour ; that they desire
the Captain to depart from this port on or before Thurs-
day morning next, wind and weather permitting ; and

that he be further requested to make oath, that he will not
discharge any part of his cargo in this Province, and that
it be recommended to him to go hack again agreeable to
the directions of the late Continental Congress.

The Committee adjourned to Monday, 5th June, 1775.

Mew-York Committee Chamber, I
May 99, 1775. j

Whereas, the publick service of the Colony may render
large supplies of the following articles absolutely necessary .
upon sudden emergencies, this Committee doth therefore
recommend to all our fellow citizens, who are possessed of
any Osnaburghs, Ravens Duck, brown Russia Sheeting
brown Drilling, striped and plain Blankets, eight-quaitrr
green and spotted Rugs, coarse Woollens, barrelled Beef,
barrelled Pork, or tin Plates, not to dispose of them until the
Provincial Congress shall determine on the expediency of
detaining them for our own use. And it is also recommend-
ed, that the owners of said articles make reports of the
quantities that they have on hand, to the Chairman, Depu-
ty-Chairman, or Secretary of this Committee, within six
days from this date. By order of tfie Committee :

Henry Rkmsen, Deputy Chairman.

NEW-YORK CONGRESS TO GOVERNOUR TRUMBULL.

In Provincial Congress, New.York, )
May 29, 1775. \

Sir: We have been honoured with the receipt of your
favour of the 27th instant, containing information, and en-
closing despatches relating to the important posts of Ticon-
deroga and Crown Point. We are sorry to hear the im-
minent danger of the people at those posts, from a threat-
ened attack from Quebcck, which might be attended with
the loss of them before any resolve of the Continental
Congress, for their preservation, could be carried into exe-
cution by our Colony.

Though therefore we agree, Sir, in opinion with your
Assembly, that the said fortresses are properly under the
direction of this Colony ; yet we are satisfied that the
pressing and urgent necessity of the case, and our present
inability to take the command of those posts, fully justify
the arrangements mentioned in your letter, to have been
taken by your respectable body for their immediate de-
fence.

We are, therefore, far from considering them as an inva-
sion of this Colony, or an intermeddling with the service
entrusted to it, as you may collect from our former letter on
this subject ; but rather esteem them as a most friendly in-
terposition for the safety of our frontiers, and as the wise
improvement of your early intelligence, and your state of
readiness to provide against immediate danger. As in
consequence of these arrangements, and the succours we
may be able to supply till we are in a condition to take
that direction of the above-mentioned fortresses, which their
situation, and the determination of the Continental Con-
gress have allotted to us, we shall attend to a proper sup-
ply of provisions for the posts. We beg leave at the same
time to present you our unfeigned thanks for your most
friendly and seasonable reinforcement, from the burden of
which we shall, without loss of time, endeavour, in pur-
suance of further directions from the Continental Congress,
to relieve our brethren of Connecticut; and should your
stock of ammunition permit the increase of that supply
which you have generously destined for that service, we
shall exert ourselves in replacing it as soon as we shall
have it in our power.

We are, with great respect, Sir, your Honour's, and the
General Court's most obedient and humble servants.
By order of the Congress :

P. V. B. Livingston, Presidents

To the Honourable Jonathan Trumbull t Govemour of the
Colony of Connecticut.

1. TRUMBULL, JR., TO HIS BROTHER.

Hartford, May 29, 1775.

Dear Brother: I have received your letter per Bacon.
A little of politicks before I answer that. In consequence
of our last letters from Colonel Arnold, (copies of which
you will see before you have this,) we have sent off Gvo

729

CORRESPONDENCE, PROCEEDINGS, &c, MAY, 1775.

730

hundred pounds of powder for Colonel Eastern, with two
hundred Pounds in cash, and have given orders to four
companies to march immediately to the relief and support
of our people at Crown Point and Ticonderoga, and have
sent express to New- York and Philadelphia of our pro-
ceedings, that no jealousies may arise from our zeal and for-
wardness in this matter, which, without explanation, might
seem to militate with a resolution of Continental Congress.
Since these proceedings, have received a letter per express
from New-York Provincial Convention, desiring our assist-
ance for the support of those northern posts, until they can
be in readiness to defend them with their own Troops,
which, I understand, they are like to set on foot (this was
without any knowledge of what we have done) for relief
of Crown Point. They intimate their hopes that we will
not be concerned lest they take umbrage at our doing any
thing which we judge necessary for the general safety re-
specting those fortresses : seem very cordial, and we hear
are well united. This intelligence I imagine will occasion
our ordering Colonel Hinman, with his whole Regiment
that way. The Deputy-Covernour was consulting with
the Governour on the necessity of sending more assistance
to the support of our northern brethren, when Mr. Brown
arrived with the above letter from New- York. Intelligence
that way begins to brighten the prospect from that from
quarter. Our gentlemen give us accounts of their having
full and free conferences with Committee of New- York
Convention, and give us favourable report from th.in.
However, must not please ourselves too much.

Our Assembly have agreed to a bounty of ten Pounds
per hundred weight on saltpetre, and five Pounds per hun-
dred weight on sulphur, for any quantity of either that may
be procured and made within the Colony for one year.
Have also agreed to a bounty of five Shillings each on all
fire-arms made within the Colony, and one Shilling and Six
Pence for each gun-lock so made, to continue till the 20th
of October next, and have promised to take on Govern-
ment account all the arms that can be made in this Colony
and offered to them for sale, till the said 20th October.
You will see by this we are not entirely wanting in our
duty. Colonel Parsons, I believe, will soon come your
way. He is very desirous of going to Boston; has the
same ideas you have of being stationed on his own ground.
1 delivered your letter for Captain Wadsivorth. He was
gone to Middletown. You will receive no answer from
him per this post, and I am unable to say what they
have done ; I believe they intend you shall purchase at
least for all the Troops coming your way, which, I ima-
gine, must be three thousand or upwards, though, in the
present incertitude of events, there are not so many under
orders for Boston. John Mumford has done wrong to
raise in your mind such ideas as your letter intimates.
The matter of purchasing beef is not yet adopted, and
don't know if it will ; also the method of paying. These
matters you must leave till you see us. You will then,
perhaps, understand our trim better than by writing. The
pay table is composed of William Pitkin, Thomas Sey-
mour, Oliver Ellsworth, and Ezekiel Williams, Esquires.
Our caution and fears respecting Ticonderoga, &.c, are
fully removed. A Committee is appointed to take care of,
and dispose of the officers, soldiers, &c, belonging to those
posts who are prisoners ; they are all here. Albany would
not receive them. I don't imagine you will very soon see
the Troops out of Boston. In what way can they make
an impression upon yourcamp? They seem to be attended
by some fatality in all their attempts hitherto ; however,
hope their ill success will not beget a security in our peo-
ple. I was in hopes there would be but little business for
sutlers.

I am glad to find per our letters from New-York, that
their Congress do not construe the resolution of Grand Con-
gress to intend an evacuation of Ticonderoga and Crown
Point, but only a removal of such artillery, stores, &tc, as
necessary, to Fort George, and keep possession above.
For this purpose it is they desire our assistance. We have
been in great agitation lest they should immediately order
an abandoning those forts. New-York have sent a Com-
mittee to superintend the removal, &c, with a number of
men for the purpose, and materials, See, for ship or sloop
building on the lakes. The Provincial Congress of New-
) oi k s em much pleased with our delegation to them, so

also do the people of the City, &.c. Mr. Low has failed
of the presidentship, which is given to Mr. Peter V. B.
Livingston, who, it is said, is a warm friend. They are
also much pleased with a full and free representation of
people, (for first time.) Their number consists of more
than one hundred. Your affectionate brother.

J. Trumbull, Jr.

NEW-MILFORD (CONNECTICUT) COMMITTEE.

The Committee of Observation for New-Milford, in the
County of Litchfield, Connecticut, having duly notified
Zechariah Ferris, Joseph Ferris, Jun., James Osborne,
Daniel Taylor, Nathaniel Taylor, and Hezekiah Stevens,
Jun., all of said Neic-Milford, to appear before said Com-
mittee this day, to give reason, if any they had, why they
and each of them should not be advertised as foes to the
rights of British America; and said said Zechariah Ferris,
Joseph Ferris, Jun., James Osborne, Daniel Taylor, and
Hezekiah Stevens, Jun., having neglected to appear, and to
give any satisfaction to said Committee ; and said Nathaniel
Taylor having appeared, and declared his opposition to the
doings of the Continental Congress ; and said Committee
having fully deliberated upon, and finding each of the afore-
named persons obstinately fixed in their opposition to the
doings of said Congress, and the now bleeding cause of
Ameiica; thinks itself in duty bound to make this publica-
tion, that each of said persons may be universally neglected,
and treated as incorrigible enemies to the rights of British
America, according to the eleventh article of the Associa-
tion, entered into by said Congress.

By order of the Committee :

Samuel Canfield, Committee Clerk.

Litchfield, May 29, 1775.

N. B. Five other persons being also notified to appear
with the above, have made their retraction, and signed a
compliance in full, with the doings of the Congress, to the
acceptance of the Committee.

SELECTMEN OF NEW-HAVEN TO GOVERNOUR TRUMBULL.

New-Haven, May 29, 1775.

Sir : One of our number waits on your Honour with
this, to inform the General Assembly, through the channel
of your Honour, that we are now in possession of upwards
of sixty cannon, nine, six, and three-pounders, for the use
of the Colony, out of which a sufficient number may be
made use of for the defence of this Town, if the honour-
able General Assembly think proper to order a battery
built and carnages made for the guns, with suitable stores
of powder and ball to be provided.

We refer you to Mr. Ball for the particulars of the man-
ner of our being possessed of these cannon, which we think
a great acquisition, and shall esteem ourselves happy to
receive the directions of the honourable Assembly how
they are to be disposed of. We are, with great respect,
your most obedient servants,

Jeremiah Atwater, }

Isaac Doolittle, > Selectmen.

James Gilbert, y

Honourable Jonathan Trumbull, Esq.

GOVERNOUR TRUMBULL TO MASSACHUSETTS CONGRESS.

Hartford, May 29, 1775.

Gentlemen : I am desired to enclose to you a copy of
a letter from the Congress of New-York to this Assembly,
dated 25th instant, which you will receive herewith per Mr.
Brown, who is on his return from the Continental Con-
gress. The contents of the above mentioned letter were
immediately taken into consideration by this Assembly ; in
consequence whereof, they came into the following resolu-
tions : That one thousand men, (including four hundred
which we had before ordered,) under command of Colonel
Hinman, should march as soon as possible to Ticonderoga
and Crown Point, for the support and defence of those
fortresses. That they continue there until they are relieved
by the Province of New-York, or are otherwise ordered
by this Assembly. That Colonel Hinman take the com-
mand of our Troops on those stations. That the Troops
be furnished with one pound of powder, and three pounds

731

CORRESPONDENCE, PROCEEDINGS, &c, MAY, 1775.

732

of bullets to each soldier. That Colonel Hinman be order-
ed to keep up the strictest vigilance to prevent any hos-
tile incursions from being made into the settlements of the
Province of tyuebcck, and that the Provincial Congresses

\> w-York and Massachusetts-Bay be advised of
measures, and the New- York Congress be requested to
forward the necessary supplies for said Troops, and such
other supplies of ammunition as they shall judge necessary.
Advice of these resolutions is already sent forward to New-
York, per Mr, Colton, your express to Philadelphia.

It is matter of doubt with us whether the above-men-
tioned detachment of Troops, ordered by this Colony, will
be sufficient for the important purposes for which they are
destined ; but we recollect that Colonel Arnold is now on
the spot, with a commission (as we understand) to raise
a Regiment in the pay of your Province. We are not in-
formed how far he has proceeded in that design. If he
meets with success, we flatter ourselves that his Regiment,
joined with the Troops we have sent, will be able to main-
tain their ground, and keep possession of those important
posts.

We take the liberty to recommend to your consideration
the furnishing such additional supply of powder from you
as you shall think necessary, to be sent forwards for the
support of those northern posts. I am very sorry to have
it to say, that we are credibly informed there is not five
hundred pounds of powder in the City of New- York; but
at the same time are advised that means are taking to sup-
ply them with that very important article.

I am, with great truth and regard, gentlemen, your most
obedient humble servant, Jonathan Trumbull.

The Hon. Provincial Congress of 31assachusetts-Bay.

CONNECTICUT ASSEMBLY TO THE ALBANY COMMITTEE.

Hartford, May 29, 1775.

Gentlemen : Your favour of the 27th instant, by ex-
press, came safe to hand; the contents have been duly
considered, and in reply have the pleasure to acquaint you
that we had before received the resolve of the Congress at
New-York, with their request to send forward some forces
to the northward, to keep those important posts until such
time as they might be relieved by Troops from your Colony.
We have accordingly ordered one thousand Troops, under
command of Colonel Hinman, to march immediately to 7Y-
conderoga and Crown Point, furnished with one pound of
powder and three pounds of ball, to each soldier, to continue
there until relieved by the Province of New-York, or are
otherwise ordered ; also sent forward, under the care of Col-
onel Easton, of Pittsjield, five hundred weight of powder
for those fortresses; and forwarded advice of our doings to
the Provincial Congresses, both at Massachusetts and New-
York, just before the receipt of your letter, which renders
it unnecessary your express should go forward to the Con-
gress at Massachusetts-Bay. Colonel Hinman is directed
to exercise the greatest vigilance that no incursions be
made into the Province of Quebeck, to disturb the inhabi-
tants there. It is hoped that the Provincial Congress at
New-York will forward the supplies of provisions, and
whatever may be thought necessary ; and that the people
in your Province, who are under the best advantage from
their situation, will spare no endeavours that may be bene-
ficial to preserve peace and harmony with the Indians, and
prevent their taking part against, but rather that they take
part for, the security of the liberties of these Colonies,
whereon their own happiness so much depends.

engineers, and artillery-men, included) should be imme-
diately stationed at Ticondcroga, Crown Point, and Point
Aufere, and a sufficient number to man the sloop, the
schooner, and the large and small boats now in our posses-
sion, and which at present gives us the mastery of the
lake. Point Aufere is on the west side of this lake,
seven miles south of the Canada line, whereon was built
last summer a very strong stone and lime wall house, with
strong ball-proof brick, sentry boxes at each corner, com-
manding every inch of ground about the house, having in
them, and in a large dry cellar under the house, forty-four
port-holes. This may, at a small expense, be made a very
important post, by throwing up a breast-work, or by in-
trenching round the house, to be defended by a few pieces
of cannon, whereby every naval irruption that may be at-
tempted by the enemy, may be greatly obstructed, if not
entirely frustrated ; and we frontier inhabitants encouraged
to remain on our flourishing settlements, without being
alarmed at or exposed to the incursions of either the sol-
diery, the Canadians, or the Indians — the latter two of
whom I must say, at present, have all the appearance of
being neutrals, if not friends.

I must beg leave to observe to you, that there are now
in these parts a very considerable number of men under
the command of Mr. Ethan Allen, as brave as Hercules, and
as good marksmen as can be found in America, who might
prove immediately serviceable to the common cause, were
they regularly embodied, and commanded by officers of
their own choice, subordinate to whoever has or may be
appointed commander-in-chief, or to the instructions of
the Grand Congress. These men being excellent wood
rangers, and particularly acquainted in the wilderness of
Lake Champlain, would, in all likelihood, be more service-
able in these parts than treble their number of others not
having these advantages, especially if left under the direc-
tion of their present enterprising and heroick commander,
Mr. Allen.

1 hope, gentlemen, you will pardon the freedom of this
address, since it goes to you from one very much interested
in the subject, having upwards of fifty families settled under
his protection, on the most remote frontier of this Prov-
ince, some of whom only ten miles south of the Canada
line, the first settlement ever made under the British Gov-
ernment on Lake Champlain.

I have the honour to be, with the most profound respect,
gentlemen, your most devoted and most obedient servant,

William Gilleland.
To the Hon. the Continental Congress.

Ncw.York, May 29, 1775.

The martial spirit which prevails among the inhabitants
of Somerset County, in New-Jersey, truly merits the atten-
tion of the publick. We have certain intelligence that
they are forming themselves into companies, and daily ex-
ercising to become complete masters of the military dis-
cipline ; and, particularly, that the Township of Bridge-
water, in said County, met at Baritan, the 6th instant, and
chose Mr. Abraham Ten Eyck Captain, under whose com-
mand eighty-five volunteers immediately enlisted, to be in
readiness at an hour's warning to march for the assistance
of any neighbouring Colony, on any emergency. Their
pay and other necessaries are provided by said Township.
The other Counties and Townships, it is hoped, will follow
their example, as it may be necessary to repel force by
force, in order to secure our national rights and privileges.

WILLIAM GILLELAND TO THE CONTINENTAL CONGRESS.

Near Crown Point, May 29, 1775.

Gentlemen : As a lover of my liberty and my country,
1 beg leave to offer you my warmest congratulation on the
success of His Majesty's arms, under the prudent and
spirited conduct of Colonel Arnold and Mr. Ethan Allen,
in reducing the important posts at Ticonderoga and Crown
Point, and in seizing the armed sloop on this lake, and
all the officers, soldiers, and military stores. These ac-
quisitions 1 conceive to be highly advantageous to the Ame-
rican cause ; and we all ardently hope that you, gentlemen,
will order them to be sufficiently supported and defended ;
for which purpose I imagine that a thousand men (sailors,

ETHAN ALLEN TO THE CONTINENTAL CONGRESS.

[Read in Congress June 10, 1775.]

Crown Point, May 29, 17;."..

Worthy Gentlemen : An abstract of the minutes of
Council from the Continental Congress, signed per Mr.
Charles Thomson, Secretary, has just come to hand, and
though it approves of the taking the fortresses on Lake
Champlain, and the artillery, fcc, I am nevertheless much
surprised that your Honours should recommend it to us to
remove the artillery to the south end of Lake George, and
there to make a stand ; the consequence of which must
niin the frontier settlements, which are extended at least
one hundred miles to the northward from that place. Pro-

733

CORRESPONDENCE, PROCEEDINGS, &c, MAY, 1775.

734

bably your Honours were not informed of those settle-
ments, which consist of several thousand families, who are
seated on that tract of country called the New-Hampshire
Grants.

The misfortune and real injury to those inhabitants, by
making the south end of Lake George the northernmost
point of protection, will more fully appear from the follow-
ing consideration, namely: It was at the special request
and solicitation of the Governments of the Province of the
Massachusetts-Bay and Connecticut, that those very in-
habitants put their lives into the hand of their Govern-
ments, and made those valuable acquisitions for the Colo-
nies. By doing it they have incensed Governour Carleton
and all the ministerial party in Canada against them ; and
provided they should, after all their good service in behalf
of their Country, be neglected and left exposed, they will
be, of all men, the most consummately miserable.

The south promontory of Lake Champlain and Lake
George, as to a southern direction, are near the same, and
if we should give up the sovereignty of Lake Champlain,
we may as well give up the whole. If the King's Troops
should be again in possession of Ticonderoga and Crown
Point, and command the lake, the Indians and Canadians
will be much more inclined to join with them, and make
incursions into the heart of our Country. But the Colo-
nies are now in possession and actual command of the lake,
having taken the armed sloop from George the Third,
which was cruising in the lake, and also seized a schooner
belonging to Major Skene, at South-Bay, and have armed
and manned them both for the protection of our Country,
and the Constitution and civil privileges and liberties
thereof.

By a council of war held on board the sloop, the 27th
instant, it was agreed to advance to the Point Aufere, with
the sloop and schooner, and a number of armed boats well
manned, and there make a stand, and act on the defensive,
and by all means command the lake and defend the fron-
tiers, and wait for the special directions of the honourable
Continental Congress, and govern ourselves accordingly.
We are now almost ready to sail to that station, which is
about six miles this side of latitude forty-five degrees north.
A small force, with the armed vessels, will at present com-
mand the lake, and secure the frontiers.

The Canadians, all except the noblesse, and also the
Indians, appear at present to be very friendly to us ; and
it is my humble opinion, that the more vigorous the Colo-
nies push the war against the King's Troops in Canada,
the more friends we shall find in that country. Provided
I had but five hundred men with me at St. John's, when
we took the King's sloop, I would have advanced to Mon-
treal. Nothing strengthens our friends in Canada equal to
our prosperity in taking the sovereignty of Lake Cham-
plain; and should the Colonies forthwith send an army of
two or three thousand men, and attack Montreal, we should
have little to fear from the Canadians or Indians, and would
easily make a conquest of that place, and set up the stand-
ard of liberty in the extensive Province of Quebeck, whose
limit was enlarged purely to subvert the liberties of Ame-
rica. Striking such a blow would intimidate the Tory
party in Canada, the same as the commencement of the
war at Boston intimidated the Tories in the Colonies.
They are a set of gentlemen that will not be converted by
reason, but are easily wrought upon by fear.

Advancing an army into Canada will be agreeable to our
friends ; and it is bad policy to fear the resentment of an
enemy. If we lie easy, and in a supine state, and Gov-
ernour Carleton exerts himself against us vigorously, as we
know he will, and who, by a legal Constitution, can oblige
our friends to assist him, he will, by slow degrees, discour-
age our friends, and encourage our enemies, and form those
that are at present indifferent, into combinations against us.
Therefore, the possible, way to circumvent him and the
scheme of the Ministry, is to nervously push an army into
Canada. But if the wisdom of the Continent in Congress
should view the proposed invasion of the King's Troops
in Canada as premature or impolitick, nevertheless I hum-
bly conceive, when your Honours come to the knowledge
of the before-mentioned facts, you will at least establish
some advantageous situation towards the northerly part of
Lake Champlain, as a frontier, instead of the south pro-
montory of Lake George.

There are many advantages in forming the frontier near
the country of the enemy, as, first : it will be in our power
to ravage and make inroads into the heart of the enemy's
country, the same as they might easily do, were they in
possession and command of Lake Champlain. This advan-
tage will be of the utmost consequence, be it in the hands
of which party it will. Though it is now in our hands, to
give it up to them would be fatal to the interest of the Col-
onies, but more particularly to those who were instrumental
in the achievement of the supremacy of that lake. But
secondly : commanding the northerly part of the lake puts
it in our power to work our policy with the Canadians and
Indians. We have made considerable proficiency this way
already. Sundry tribes have been to visit us, and have
returned to their tribes to use their influence in our favour.
We have just sent Captain Abraham Nimham, a Stock-
bridge Indian, as our ambassador of peace to the several
tribes of Indians in Canada. He was accompanied with
Mr. TVinthrop Hoit, who has been a prisoner with the In-
dians, and understands their tongue. I do not imagine,
provided we command Lake Champlain, there will be any
need of a war with the Canadians or Indians.

Pray pardon me on accouut of any impertinency or in-
accuracy in this composition, as it is hut a rough draught,
w-rote in great haste, from your Honours" ever faithful, most
obedient and humble servant, Ethan Allen.

To the Continental Congress.

BENEDICT ARNOLD TO THE CONTINENTAL CONORES-.

Crown Point, May 29, 1775

Gentlemen: Your resolution of the 18th instant, and
recommendation of measures to the City of New-York and
Albany, in consequence of the taking possession of Ticon-
deroga and Crown Point, has this moment been delivered
me, as commanding officer here, the purport of which in-
duces me to believe the Committee of Safety of the Mas-
sachusetts-Bay have not informed you of my appointment,
or instructions from them, which I have taken the liberty
to enclose ; and, in consequence, arrived in the neighbour-
hood of Ticonderoga the 9th instant, where 1 met one Col-
onel Allen, with about one hundred men, raised at the
instance of some gentlemen from Connecticut, who agreed
we should take a joint command of the Troops. The next
morning, at four o'clock, we surprised the garrison and took
them prisoners, the particulars of which you have doubtless
heard. Some dispute arising between Colonel Allen and
myself, prevented my carrying my orders into execution,
until the 16th, when, being joined by fifty men of my own
Regiment, and a small schooner taken at Skenesborough ,
which I immediately armed, and sailed for St. John's, in
quest of the sloop. The 17th, being becalmed within ten
leagues of St. John's, I manned out two small batteaus,
with thirty-five men, and, after rowing all night, at six
o'clock next morning landed at St. John's, and took a ser-
geant and his party of twelve men prisoners, the King's
sloop, of seventy tons, mounted with two brass six-pound-
ers, and seven men, and in two hours after left St. John's,
having previously taken on board such stores, &c, as were
valuable. Providence remarkably smiled on us, as a few
hours' delay would have ruined our design, a party of one
hundred and twenty men, with six pieces of cannon for the
sloop, being on their march from Montreal, at only twenty
miles distant ; add to this a party of forty men on a march
from Chamblee, twelve miles distant. Colonel Allen arrived
at St. John's the same evening, with one hundred men.
and being attacked the next morning by the Regulars, re-
treated, and left three men behind, two of which are since
arrived.

I have armed the sloop with six carriage and twelve
swivel-guns ; the schooner with four carriages and eight
swivels. I have sent to Lake George one brass twelve-
pounder, six large brass and iron mortars and howitzers,
and am making all possible preparation for transporting all
the cannon here, and as many as can be spared at Ticon-
deroga, to Fort George.

I must beg leave to observe, gentlemen, that the report
of Ticonderoga' s being abandoned, have thrown the inhab-
itants here into the greatest consternation. There are about
five hundred families to the northward of Ticonderoga.
who, if it is evacuated, will be left at the mercy of the

735

CORRESPONDENCE, PROCEEDINGS, fee., MAY, 1775.

736

King's Troops and Indians, and who have, part of them,
joined the Army, and cannot now remain neuter, to whom
a remove would be entire ruin, as they have large families
and no dependence but a promising crop on the ground.
I need not add to this, gentlemen, that Ticondcroga is the
key of this extensive country, and if abandoned, leaves a
very extensive frontier open to the ravages of the enemy,
and to continual alarms, which will probably cost more than
the expense of repairing and garrisoning it.

I esteemed it my duty, as a servant of the publick, to
give you the foregoing hints, and hope the exigence of the
times will be a sufficient apology for the liberty I have
taken.

I have the honour to be, very respectfully, gentlemen,
your most obedient humble servant,

Benedict Arnold, Colonel, SfC

BENEDICT ARNOLD TO THE MASSACHUSETTS COMMITTEE
OF SAFETY.

Crown Point, May 29, 1775.

Gentlemen : I was equally surprised and alarmed this
day, on receiving advice, via Albany, that the Continental
Congress had recommended the removing all the cannon,
stores, &c, at Ticonderoga, to Fort George, and evacua-
ting Ticonderoga entirely, which being the only key of
this country, leaves our very extensive frontiers open to the
ravages of the enemy ; and if put into execution, will be
the entire ruin of five hundred families to the northward of
Ticonderoga. I have wrote the Congress, and given my
sentiments very freely, with your instructions to me, as I
fancy they have had no intelligence of my appointment or
orders.

Colonel Allen has entirely given up the command. I
have one hundred and fifty men here, and expect in two or
three weeks to have my Regiment complete, and believe
they will be joined by a thousand men from Connecticut
and New-York. I have sent to Lake George six large
brass and iron mortars and howitzers, one brass and three
iron twelve-pounders, and shall pursue your orders with all
the despatch in my power. I am, gentlemen, with great
respect, your most obedient humble servant,

Benedict Arnold.

MASSACHUSETTS CONGRESS TO GOVERNOUR TRUMBULL.

In Provincial Congress, Watertown, )
May 29, 1775. $

May it please your Honour: Yesterday, about three
of the clock, P. M., this Congress received your Honour's
most kind and friendly letter of the 25th instant, enclosing
a resolution of the General Congress, of the 18th instant,
relating to Ticonderoga, the order of the General Com-
mittee of Association of New-York, for executing the said
resolution, and the letter from the Connecticut Delegates
at New-York ; each of which contain articles of intelli-
gence very important and interesting to all the New-
England Governments. But while we are consoled and
rejoiced to find that the General Congress is attentive to
the safety and general interests of the Colonies, we cannot
conceal from the General Assembly of your Colony, that we
should be to the last degree agitated, if we really supposed
that the said resolution of the General Congress, touching
Ticonderoga and said posts on Lake Champlain, was their
ultimatum, and that they would not reconsider that resolu-
tion. But as we cannot suffer ourselves to doubt of their
best intentions and great concern for the liberty and safety
of all the Colonies, we assure ourselves, that upon better
information, and knowledge more just, they will be fully
convinced of the great impolicy of abandoning Lake Cham-
plain, which we conceive they have in effect advised to,
although we confess their expressions are not the clearest.
But we are confirmed in our construction of the said reso-
lution, by the order taken by the General Committee of
New-York to execute the same.

May it please your Honour, permit us to acquaint you,
that as soon as possible after we had received advice of the
success of our people at Crown Point and St. John's, and
the taking of the armed sloop on that lake, by Col. Arnold's
letter, a copy whereof we have sent you by Col. Henshaw,
we sent an express to New- York and to the General Con-
gress, signifying to the General Congress and to the Con-

gress of New-York, in the strongest manner, our opinion of
the absolute necessity and great advantages of maintaining
the post of Ticonderoga. But as we conceived the reasons
and grounds of such an opinion were obvious and generally
known, we supposed that a detail of the arguments anil
proofs was altogether unnecessary. But upon seeing the
resolution of the General Congress upon that important
matter, we were much surprised and concerned ; and in the
little time we have had to deliberate on the subject, we
have resolved to endeavour to suggest to your Honour and
your Assembly the reasons which at present occur to us,
which we apprehend make it evident that the maintaining
that post is not only practicable, and, under God, in the
power of the Colonies, but of inexpressible necessity, for
the defence of the Colony of New- York, and all the New-
England Colonies ; and having enumerated those reasons
as they occur, without consulting method or any orderly
arrangement, to submit them to your Assembly, most im-
portunately praying you, if your Honours approve them,
that you will, with the greatest despatch, communicate
them, with many more observations which your better
knowledge of facts will suggest, to the General Congress ;
and, if you should judge it advisable, also to the Congress
of New- York ; conceiving that, in several respects, they
would go from you with more advantage, not only to New-
York, but also to the General Congress, than from us. It
seems natural to compare the two stations proposed to be
maintained, viz : Ticonderoga and William Henry, in the
following manner, that is to say, with regard to the benefits
and advantages of the two stations which will arise for tl e
purposes of general defence and annoyance of the common
enemy, and with regard to the feasibility of maintaining
each place.

And, in the first place, as to the advantages of general
defence resulting from a post at Ticonderoga, beyond those
of William Henry ; they are so great and many, that they
cannot be enumerated in an ordinary letter. In the view
of a post of observation, we beg leave to observe, that all
movements from Canada, intended against New-England
or New-York, by the way of Lake Champlain, whether
by scalping parties or large bodies, whether in the winter
or open seasons of the year, may almost certainly be dis-
covered so seasonably as that the blow may be generally
warded off; whereas, if the post at William Henry be only-
kept, it is probable that three-fourths of the attempts on
the frontiers of New-York and New-England, by Cham-
plain, will never be known until executed. As to enter-
prises by any large body by the way of Champlain, it is clear
that they may be known much earlier from the former than
the latter station ; also, if it should become necessary and
just that the United Colonies should annoy the inhabitants
of Canada, and cause them to feel the grievousness of war
on their borders, (as it most certainly will, in case they en-
gage in the war upon us,) the two stations scarcely bear any
comparison; for if we abandon the post at Ticonderoga,
the enemy will infallibly seize it ; and, in that case, what
annoyance can we give Canada by the way of Champlain,
by means of a fortified post at William Henry 1 If the
enemy hold Ticonderoga, they will effectually command
the whole of Lake Champlain. If the United Colonies
hold it, they will so far command that lake, as, by the way
of it, they will be able to make descents by small parties
upon great part of the country of Canada, and infinitely
distress them ; but from William Henry none can be made
without vast difficulty and risk. As to the advantages of
subsisting and defending a garrison, and maintaining a post
against the efforts of Canada, either at Ticonderoga or
Fort William Henry, we conceive that they are much in
favour of the former; for as to supplies of victuals for
either a garrison or an army stationed at one place or the
other, we conceive that, on the whole, they may he more
easily and certainly afforded to Ticonderoga than William
Henry. We suppose that what should be sent from posts
on the westerly side of Hudson's River, may almost as
easily be transported to Ticonderoga as to William Henry ;
and as to such supplies as would go from posts eastward of
Hud ion's River, they may be conveyed to the former place
with much more facility than the latter. And as to the
speed and certainty of marching succours for the relief of
a garrison at one place or the other, in case of an attack,
we suppose the advantages of Ticonderoga are vastly supe-

737

CORRESPONDENCE, PROCEEDINGS, &c, MAY, 1775.

738

riour to those of William Henry ; for we cannot forbear
observing, that our brethren of New-York Government,
settled on the westerly side of Hudson's River, have been
always rather slow in warlike efforts ; and if the succours
must go from Connecticut, Massachusetts, New-Hampshire,
or the northeasterly parts of New- York Governments, they
may be mustered and marched much sooner to the former
station than the latter. We have no doubt but, on a press-
ing emergency, a large body of men might be marched
from the middle of the County of Hampshire to Ticonde-
roga in six days ; but to gentlemen so well acquainted with
the geography of the two places, we need not dwell on this
part of the argument ; and, in short, we have no idea of
maintaining the one or the other of the two posts in time
of war with Canada, but either by constantly keeping an
army on the spot, or making a fort of sufficient strength for
a garrison to hold out against an attack until an army could
be marched from New-York or New-England, sufficient to
raise the siege ; the latter method we suppose most politick,
and quite practicable with regard to Ticonderoga. But
at the same time we beg leave just to hint, that a fortified
station, on the easterly side of South-Bay, or Lake Cham-
plain, opposite to Ticonderoga or Crown Point, or still
farther on, affords great advantages for the maintaining of
Ticonderoga, and defending the settlements on the easterly
side of Lake Champlain ; and there is artillery enough to
spare to other places; and if we abandon the land be-
tween the Lakes George and Champlain, we shall give the
enemy an opportunity to build at or near the points ; and
by that means we shall lose the whole of Lake Champlain,
and the shipping we now have on that lake, by which we
can command the whole of it, and keep the enemy at a
distance of a hundred miles from our English settlements,
near Otter Creek, &tc. ; but if that fortress should be main-
tained, we shall have those very settlements, with some
aids from the old settlements, to support it, which will not
be half the charge that it would be to maintain a sufficient
number of soldiers so far from their homes. We have there
about four or five hundred hardy men, with many families,
who, if those grounds should be abandoned, will be driven
from their settlements, and leave the Massachusetts and
New-Hampshire people naked, without any barrier, and
exposed to the Canadians and savages, who will have a
place of retreat at the point, as they had almost the whole
of the last war. By abandoning this ground, we give up
an acquisition which cost immense sums of money, the loss
of many lives, and five campaigns.

As to the expense of maintaining a fortress at Ticonde-
roga, this Colony will not fail to exert themselves to the
utmost of their power.

We are under the greatest obligations to your Honour
and the General Assembly, for the intelligence you have
given us ; and you may depend we shall not fail of convey-
ing to you all important intelligence with the greatest des-
patch. The interpositions of Divine Providence, in favour
of America, are very obvious, which demands our utmost
thankfulness. Enclosed is a brief narrative of some of
them. We are, Sic.

We have addressed the Continental Congress upon the
necessity of keeping a fortress at or near Ticonderoga,
and have also most pressingly desired the Colony of Con-
necticut to exert themselves to effect the maintaining such
a fortress. We have also written to New-York upon the
matter.

We now lay the same advice before you, that you may
have opportunity to take such measures as you shall think
proper. As your Colony is so deeply affected, you will,
from a concern for that, and a general regard for the com-
mon safety, which you have at all times appeared to have,
we trust, take the matter up, and, by decent and respectful
addresses to the Continental Congress, endeavour to pre-
vail with them to alter a measure so dangerous in its effects.

We are, gentlemen, your most obedient and very hum-
ble servants, Jos. Warren, Pres't pro tern.

THE MASSACHUSETTS CONGRESS TO THE NEW-HAMPSHIRE

CONGRESS.

In Provincial Congress, Watertown,
May 29, 1775.

" Resolved, That the following Letter be immediately
sent to the Provincial Congress of New- Hampshire."

Gentlemen : Enclosed are copies of Governour Trum-
bull's letter to this Congress, enclosing a resolution of the
Continental Congress, respecting the fortresses at Ticonde-
roga, Crown Point, &c, and the resolution of the General
Committee of Association of New- York thereon, and a let-
ter from the Connecticut Delegates, from New- York, to
their Assembly.

The measure taken by the Continental Congress, if car-
ried into execution, will, in our humble opinion, affect those
Colonies east of Hudson River, in the highest degree. By
that you will see that all the lands and waters between the
south end of Lake George and Crown Point, together
with all Lake Champlain, will be left open for Canadians
and savages, if they should be so disposed, to ravage all
that country east, and distress all our new settlements.

Fourth Series. — Vol. ii. 47

COMMITTEE OF SANDWICH TO THE PROVINCIAL CONGRESS
OF MASSACHUSETTS.

Sandwich, May 29, 1775.

Honourable Gentlemen : In consequence of com-
plaint made to the Committee of Correspondence of the
Town of Sandwich, by Messrs. Simeon Wing and Jesse
Barlow, we have thought it advisable to represent to your
Honours the circumstances of their vessels being taken by
Captain Linsey, of the Falcon, and retaken by a schooner
from Dartmouth, under command of Captain Egery, and
to beg some advice and order of the Congress may be
passed concerning it. Mr. Wing's vessel, commanded by
his son Thomas, has been plied as a wood boat to carry
wood to Nantucket from Sandwich, for some years past,
and it hath been the usual practice for them to settle with
the Custom-House once a year, the officer of which always
gave them their choice of paying twelve pence per trip, or
the whole at the year's end : and this hath been, we find on
examination, the common practice with other vessels that
have followed the same business at the same place. Upon
Captain Wing's returning from Nantucket, through the
Vineyard Sound, the sloop was taken by a barge from
said Captain Linsey's brig ; an Indian fellow on board of
Wing's vessel informed Captain Lindsey of said Barlow's
vessel, which had run a cargo lately from the West-In-
dies, and was laden with provisions in Buzzard's Bay.
Captain Linsey took possession of Captain Wing's ves-
sel, putting fourteen men on board, to proceed up the
bay and take Jesse Barlow's vessel, which they carried
off. The master of this latter vessel was taken with
Wing, being then on board as a passenger; so that both
vessels, with all the crews, passengers, &c, were cap-
tured, and proceeded to the cove to Captain Linsey. Mr.
Barlow made application to some people at Dartmouth,
who went with a sloop, one half of which Barlow ven-
tured, and retook both said vessels and men, with their
arms, 81c, and carried them into Dartmouth. Messrs.
Wing and Barlow applied to the Dartmouth people, who
took the vessels from them again. The people offered
them their vessels upon Wing's paying them eight dollars
aud Barlow's paying ten dollars, with which they com-
plied, and Wing paid the money ; after which the Dart-
mouth people detained the vessels till the order of Con-
gress could be known, and now refuse to deliver up the
said vessels without Wing and Barlow's paying forty-five
dollars, and giving bonds of a very extraordinary nature,
to indemnify said Dartmouth people, Sic. These are a
true state of facts, as nearly as we, after examination of
said Wing and Barlow, can ascertain ; and the said Wing
and Barlow, thinking they ought to have their vessels
again without further difficulty, desire the Committee of
Correspondence of this Town to lay the matter before
you, and pray your orders, to which they profess their
readiness to submit and acquiesce in.

We are your Honours' very humble servants, the Com-
mittee of Sandwich .

Nathaniel Freeman, per order.

In Congress, Watertown, July 1, 1775.

The Committee appointed to take the Remonstrance
from the Committee of Correspondence of the Town of
Sandwich into consideration, have considered the same,
and report as follows, viz :

739

CORRESPONDENCE, PROCEEDINGS, &ic, MAY, 1775.

1 40

That the people of the Town of Dartmouth, mentioned
in said Remonstrance, who withhold said vessels from said
Wing and Barlow, be notified to appear the second Tues-
day of the next meeting of the House of Representatives,
in fVatertown, to give their reasons why they withhold the
same, and that they be served with a copy of this Remon-
strance, and that Wing and Barlow be notified to attend
at the same time and place ; which is humbly submitted.

Per order, Ezra Richmond.

According to your request, I have transmitted to the
Committee of Safety a regimental return of the men who
have enlisted under me into the service of the Province of
New-Hampshire, and who expect to be paid therefrom.

Your compliance with the above will greatly oblige
your's in the common cause, John Stark.

TO THE COMMITTEE OF SAFETY FOR MASSACHUSETTS.

Salem, May 29, 1775.

Gentlemen: Mr. Stephen Higginson, of this Town,
arrived here yesterday from London. The answers he
gave on his examination before the House of Commons,
and which were some time since printed in the newspa-
pers, have given umbrage to some persons in this place,
(and we hear in Marblehead also,) who imagine those an-
swers to be highly injurious to the Province, and given
with an intention to distress it. He this day appeared
before the Committee of Safety of this Town, and, upon
exhibition of the facts, the Committee, to a man, were
perfectly satisfied of his innocence and good intention rela-
tive to the matter complained of; but that every one might
be made easy, as the Town were to meet this day, it was
judged best to publish the whole to the inhabitants when
assembled, which was done accordingly to a full meeting,
and the Town thereupon expressed their satisfaction by a
vote, from which only three or four dissented, but many
did not vote at all ; and since the meeting was dissolved
we find that several remain dissatisfied, and desire the
matter may be inquired into by the Provincial Committee
of Safety; we have, therefore, advised Mr. Higginson to
wait on you, that your decision may quiet the minds of the
people here and through the Country. We have stated
the facts above-mentioned as a necessary apology for
troubling you about a matter so extremely obvious.
We are, gentlemen, your most humble servants,

Rich. Derby, Chm'n Com. of Safety.

Tim. Pickering, Jun., Town Cleric.
To the Provincial Committee of Safety.

COLONEL STARK TO THE NEW-HAMPSHIRE CONGRESS.

Medford, May 29, 1775.

Gentlemen: Yours of the 26th instant I have re-
ceived, and note the contents ; and as to the fire-arms for
the use of the Regiment under my command, the greatest
part of those who were destitute when I wrote to you, are
since furnished, and I am informed by the officers of the
several Companies, that the remainder will be equipped
very shortly ; so I flatter myself that this difficulty (as to
my Regiment) will be soon surmounted. Yet, as to the
manner of procuring them, whether by the respective
Towns to which they belong, or by individuals, I cannot
at present inform you, as no account has yet come to hand.
But I would still beg leave to entreat you to take some
further notice of the Army. And, in the first place, con-
sider that a great part of the Regiment or Army here, are
destitute of blankets, and cannot be supplied by their
Towns, and are very much exposed ; some of whom,
for the want thereof, are much indisposed, and thereby
rendered unfit for duty. Secondly, that we are in very
great want of money, and that neither officers nor soldiers
can subsist much longer, without some, by any means. And
this I am well assured of, (from daily complaints which are
made to me,) that imless you, by some means, advance
some money to the Army directly, (as there is no room in
my mind to doubt that there is a very considerable sum in
the Province belonging thereto,) they will certainly return,
for they cannot nor will not continue. I would also re-
commend to your consideration the necessity of a sutler
or sutlers for the benefit of the Army; and if it should be
thought necessary that there should be such, and if one can-
not be found in that Province who will undertake to supply
the Army upon reasonable terms, I know of a gentleman in
this Province that would gladly embrace the opportunity, if
applied to. I would likewise be glad there might be a chest
of medicine procured for the Regiment, and forwarded, as
it is wanted very much, and also armourer's tools.

COMMITTEE OF PORTSMOUTH, N. H., TO THE COMMITTEE
OF NEWBURYPORT.

Portsmouth, May 29, 1775.

Gentlemen : We had two provision vessels seized at
the mouth of our harbour the last night, by the Scarbo-
rough, and upon application to Captain Barclay for their
release, find he has positive orders from the Admiral to
take possession of all vessels laden with provisions, salt, or
molasses, and send them to Boston, and says further, those
orders are circular through the Continent.

We give this earliest intelligence for your government,
and also inform you that the Canceaux:, a small ship, of six
or eight guns, sails the first wind, to convoy the two vessels
already seized to Boston, and are sorry to find ourselves
unable to prevent it, as we have our harbour blocked up
by a twenty-gun ship, and have no vessel of force able to
retake them. One reason of our mentioning this circum-
stance, and sending an express this night with it, is, be-
cause we have just heard that you have an armed vessel in
your port. We have ordered two small vessels to cruise
off and on, and, if possible, give this intelligence to all
vessels bound to this or any other port, and trust you will
do the same. Your most obedient servants. By order of
the Committee: H. Wentworth, Chairman.

To the Committee of Correspondence of Newburyport.

Newburyport, May 30, 1775.
This letter was received this morning by the Committee
of this Town ; and as the Admiral's orders, herein men-
tioned, may affect every part of the Continent, we think it
our duty to send it forward to the Committee of Safety
for the Province, or to the Congress.

B. Greenleaf, per order.

To the Provincial Congress of Massachusetts.

Portsmouth, N. H., May 30, 1775.

This day about thirty or forty men from on board the
Scarborough, man-of-war, now in this harbour, came on
shore at Fort William and Mary, and tore down great part
of the breast-work of said fort, and did other damage.

The day before this attempt, the Scarborough took two
provision vessels, loaded with corn, pork, flour, rye, &c,
coming in from Long-Island, which were for the relief of
this place, as the inhabitants are in great want of provisions ;
and notwithstanding the most prudent application of the
principal gentlemen of this Town, the Captain refused to
release them. O shocking situation.

Upon this refusal it was apprehended the most violent
outrages and tumults of the people would immediately fol-
low this detention of their provisions, the consequences of
which would be, most probably, very fatal to His Majesty's
subjects, by bringing into the most imminent danger the
lives and properties of his said subjects, which ought by all
means to be prevented, if possible.

Upon this unwarrantable transaction, the inhabitants of
this and the neighbouring Towns were greatly alarmed, and,
next morning, between five and six hundred men, in arms,
went down to the battery, called Jerry's Point, and brought
off eight cannon, twenty-four and thirty-two pounders,
being the whole that were there, weighing four thousand
eight hundred pounds each, and brought them up to this
Town. While they were taking off the above cannon, the
Canceaux, with a tender, set sail with the two provision
vessels for Boston. The next day the Town was full of
men from the country, in arms.

This uncommon exertion of arbitrary power immediately
alarmed the inhabitants, and the Committee of Safety hav-
ing met, a memorial was, by their approbation, presented
to the Governour and Council, who took every prudent
method in their power to pacify the people, and to obtain
a release of the captures. His Excellency repaired on

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MASSACHUSETTS COMMITTEE OF SAFETY, APRIL, 1775.

742

board the Scarborough, and informed the Captain that the
provisions were the property of some of the inhabitants, who
had before contracted for the same ; but the only answer he
could obtain was, " that Admiral Graves and the General
had forwarded orders to take every provision vessel that
should be met with, on every station, and to send them
forthwith to Boston for the supply of the Army and Navy."
Captain Barclay, the commander of the Scarborough, in-
formed two of the Committee at Fort William and Mary,
that his orders were such that he must even take all vessels
with salt or molasses, they being a species of provision, and
send them to Boston.

TO GENERAL CAGE.

Sir : If you are not too busy in granting passes to the
people of Boston, and in protecting the remains of your
Army, I beg the favour of addressing you once more. You
have lately risen above contempt. You have commenced
hostilities between Great Britain and America, in the Prov-
ince of Massachusetts-Bay. The heinousness and conse-
quences of this crime would have raised even a sentinel
into importance, and will serve, in spite of the natural in-
significance of your character, to "damn" even General
Gage " to everlasting fame."

Your attempt to prove that the Militia of Massachusetts
fired first in the late engagement at Lexington, if successful,
would add nothing to your cause. You acknowledge that
you sent your Troops out of Boston to destroy a magazine
of provisions and military stores at Concord. The invasion
of property, among all Nations, is justly deemed a declara-
tion of war. But, Sir, however contrary to your intention,
your account of the matter has served to entail double in-
famy upon the memories of those ministerial Troops that
fell in the battle, for it proves that they suffered not only
as murderers, but as thieves. Publick justice quickened
its steps, and their punishment trod upon the heels of their
crimes. We congratulate ourselves upon the history which
you have sent of that transaction to the Ministry. It will
certainly add weight to the depositions transmitted by
the Provincial Congress of Massachusetts-Bay ; for even
treachery itself, when it reads your account of the battle,
will be forced to acknowledge that it was begun by your
Troops, and that the ravages they committed flowed less
from provocations than from the natural barbarity of their
dispositions.

The reign of George the Third seems intended by Provi-
dence to establish the belief of the most miraculous parts
of the Scriptures. It requires less faith to believe the mira-
cle of Joshua, than that freemen will not fight in defence of
their liberty. It requires less faith to believe that an Egyp-
tian Army perished in the Bed Sea, in pursuit of a people
who had brought the greatest calamities upon their Country,
than to believe that a few Regiments of English soldiers,
three thousand miles from resources of all kinds, can subdue
a Continent eighteen hundred in extent, crowded with in-
habitants, all united to each other by the closest ties of inte-
rest and affection. You, too, Sir, have contributed your
share towards confirming a historical fact in the Bible. We
cease now to wonder that the soldiers who guarded our
Saviour's sepulchre, swore that his disciples stole his body
away while they slept. Your conduct shows that there is
nothing repugnant to the folly of human nature in this story.
Your letter to Governour Trumbull is a commentary upon
that passage of Scripture, and serves to prove that soldiers
are actuated by the same principles in all arbitrary Govern-
ments, and that their abilities do not equal their inclinations
in contriving falsehoods.

Where now is the martial spirit of your Army ? Where
are those dogs of war who panted so eagerly for the blood
of their countrymen? Alas! how are the mighty fallen!
No wonder they trembled and fled at the sight of a kw
Companies of American Militia; for English courage can
dwell only in the society of justice and humanity. The
genius of Britain deserted her sons when she beheld them
fighting under the banners of slavery. No successes against
America can ever wipe away the stain they have brought
upon the British arms; for should the Colonies at last be
reduced, I will venture to predict that three hundred half
disciplined British Troops will never chase two thousand
well disciplined Americans twenty miles in six hours.

History is unfurnished with a character like yours. You
are cruel without inhumanity, unjust without avarice, and
artful without design. For Heaven's sake let experience
teach you wisdom, and lead you to truth. Let not your
talent for dissimulation prove your ruin. You have exer-
cised it hitherto in such a manner as to serve none but your
enemies, and injure none but your friends. One candid
acknowledgment of the strength and union of the Colonies,
and of the weakness of your Troops, in your letters to the
Ministry, will immediately restore peace and union to Bri-
tain and the Colonies. Junius Americanus.

MASSACHUSETTS COMMITTEE OF SAFETY.

April 5, 1775.
At a meeting of the Committee of Safety, at the house of
Mr. Taylor, of Concord, on Wednesday, the 5th of April,
1775. Present :

Honourable John Hancock, Esq., Colonel Palmer, Col.
Heath, Capt. White, Mr. Watson, J. Pigeon, Mr. Devens.

Voted unanimously, That the Committee of Supplies do
directly furnish this Committee with an exact account, in
writing, of all the Provisions and Stores, and the places of
their disposition.

Voted, That one piece of Cannon be sent to Colonel
Mitchell, of Bridgewater.

April 14, 1775.

At a meeting of the Committee of Safety, at Concord, at
the house of Mr. Taylor, on Saturday, the 14th of April,
1775. Present:

The Honourable John Hancock, Esq., Colonel Heath,
Captain White, Mr. Devens, Colonel Gardner, Mr. Wat-
sort, Mr. Palmer.

Voted, That the Cannon now in the Town of Concord
be immediately disposed of within said Town, as the Com-
mittee4 of Supplies may direct.

Voted, That the Cannon-powder, now at Leicester, be
removed, one load at a time, to this Town, and made
into cartridges, under the direction of the Committee of
Supplies.

N. B. Mr. Devens acted as Clerk pro tempore. Colonel
Gardner this day was chosen as one of the Committee of

Safety, instead of Deacon Fisher, who resigned, in conse-
quence of the distance he lives.

April 17, 1775.

At a meeting of the Committees of Safety and Supplies,
at Mr. Taylor's house, in Concord, on Monday, 17th April,
1775. Present:

Committee of Safety. — Honourable John Hancock,
Esq., Colonel Heath, Colonel Palmer, Captain Wlnte, Mr.
Devens, Colonel Gardner, Mr. Watson, Colonel Orne, J.
Pigeon.

Committee of Supplies. — Colonel Lee, Mr. Gill, Mr.
Cheever, Mr. Gerry, Colonel Lincoln.

Voted unanimously, That application be made to Cap-
tain Hatch, for captain of the Artillery Company for Bos-
ton ; and if he refuses, to offer it to Mr. Crafts, and so on
in order, as they stand in the Company. Also that Capt.
Robinson, of Dorchester, be applied to as captain of the
Company of Dorchester ; and that Mr. Newall, of Charles-
town, be applied to ; that the Captain for the Marblehead
Company be not appointed until the Members for Marble-
head make inquiry and report. That Capt. Timothy Bige-
low be applied to as captain of the Worcester Company,
and that Mr. Thomas Wait Foster, of Hadley, be applied
to. as captain of the Company at Hadley.

Voted, That the^wo Four-Pounders now at Concord be
mounted by the Committee of Supplies ; and that Colonel
Barrett be desired to raise an Artillery Company, to join
the Army when raised, they to have no pay until they join
the Army ; and also that an Instructor, for the use of the
cannon, be appointed, and to be put directly in pay.

748

MASSACHUSETTS COMMITTEE OF SAFETY, APRIL, 1775.

'44

Voted unanimously , That six Pounds, lawful money, per
month, be for Captain's pay in the Artillery Companies ;
that the First and Second Lieutenants have four Pounds ;
the Lieutenant of (ire-works to have three Pounds five Shil-
lings ; the Sergeants to have forty-two Shillings per month ;
the Corporals thirty-eight Shillings per month ; the com-
mon men thirty-six Shillings per month ; the Drummers
and Fifers thirty-eight Shillings per month ; also, that four
Shillings per week be allowed for their board.

Voted, That when these Committees adjourn, it be to
Mr. Wetherby's, at the Black-Horse, Menotomy, ou Wed-
nesday, ten o'clock.

Voted, That the four Six-Pounders be transported to
Groton, and put under the care of Colonel Prcscott.

Voted, That two seven-inch Brass Mortars be trans-
ported to Acton.

Voted, That the two Committees adjourn to Mr. Wether-
by's, at Menotomy, ten o'clock.

April 18, 1775.

At a meeting of the Committees of Safety and Supplies,
at Mr. Wetherby's, in Menotomy, on Tuesday, the 18th of
April, 1775. Present:

Committee of Safetv. — Colonel Orne, Colonel Pal-
mer, Colonel Heath, Colonel Gardner, Mr. Devens, Mr.
Watson, Captain White, J. Pigeon.

Committee of Supplies. — David Cheever, Esq., Mr.
Gerry, Colonel Lee, Colonel Lincoln.

Voted, That the two brass Two-Pounders, and two brass
Three-Pounders, be under the care of the Boston Company
of Artillery and Captain Robinson.

Newton, April 17, 1775.
Captain Timothy Bigelow:

Sir : The Committee desired me to write you, to desire
the favour of your company next Wednesday, the nine-
teenth instant, at Mr. Wetherby's, at the Black-Horse, in
Menotomy, on business of great importance.

Sir, your most humble servant, J. Pigeon, Clerk.

P. S. The Committee meets at ten o'clock.

Voted, That all the Ammunition be deposited in nine dif-
ferent Towns in this Province : that Worcester be one of
them ; that Lancaster be one, (N.B. Colonel Whitcomb is
there;) that Concord be another: that Groton be another;
that Stoughtonham be another ; that Stow be another; that
Mendon be another; that Leicester be another; that Sud-
bury be the other.

Voted, That part of the Provisions be removed from
Concord, viz : Fifty barrels beef from thence to Sudbury,
with Deacon Plympton ; one hundred barrels flour to ditto,
of which what is in the malt-house, in Concord, be part ;
twenty casks rice to ditto ; fifteen hogsheads molasses to
ditto ; ten hogsheads rum to ditto ; five hundred pounds
candles to ditto.

Voted, That there be by the Committee of Supplies
provided, six Ammunition Carts, one to be in each Town
where a Company of Matrosses is fixed.

Voted, That one Company of Matrosses be stationed at
Worcester ; one ditto at Concord; one ditto at Stoughton-
ham ; one ditto at Stoughton ; one ditto at Stow ; one ditto
at Lancaster.

Voted, That thirty-three rounds of Round-Shot, thirty-
three rounds of Grape-Shot, and thirty-three Canisters of
Langrage, be provided and lodged with each of the twelve
field-pieces belonging to the Province, together with one
hundred Cartridges of Powder, one hundred and sixteen
Tubes, one hundred Wads, together with all necessary ma-
terials.

Voted, That the Towns of Worcester, Concord, Stow,
and Lancaster, be furnished with two iron Three-Pound
Cannon each.

Voted, That four hundred and fifty Four-Pound Cannon
Ball be carried from Stoughtonham to Sudbury.

Voted, That one ton of Grape-Shot be carried from
Stoughtonham to Sudbury.

Voted, That one ton of Three-Pound Cannon Balls be
carried from ditto to ditto.

Voted, That one half the Two-Pound Cannon Ball, now
at Stoughtonham, exclusive of what is for the use of the
Matrosses, be carried to Sudbury.

Voted, That the vote of the fourteenth instant, relating to
the Powder being removed from Leicester to Concord, be
reconsidered, and that the Clerk be directed to write to
Colonel Barrett accordingly, and to desire he would not
proceed in making it up into cartridges.

Voted, That one half the Musket-Cartridges be removed
from Stow to Groton.

Voted, That the Musket-Balls, under the care of Col.
Barrett, be buried under ground, in some safe place ; that
he be desired to do it, and let the Commissary only be in-
formed thereof.

Voted, That the Spades, Pick-Axes, Bill-Hooks, Shov-
els, Axes, Hatchets, Crows, and Wheelbarrows, now at
Concord, be divided, and one third remain in Concord, one
third at Sudbury, and one third at Stow.

Voted, That five hundred Iron Pots be deposited at .SW-
bury, five hundred at Concord, and one thousand at Wor-
cester.

Voted, That the two thousand Wooden Bowls be depo-
sited as the pots and the spoons, in same manner.

Voted, That the fifteen thousand Canteens be deposited
as the above.

Voted, That the Weights and Measures be put into the
Commissary's hands.

Voted, That two Medicinal Chests still remain at Con-
cord, at two different parts of the Town ; three of said
chests at Sudbury, in different parts of the Town ; six ditto
at Groton, Mendon, and Stow, two in each Town, and in
different parts ; two ditto in Worcester, one in each part of
the Town ; and two ditto at Lancaster; that sixteen hun-
dred yards of Russia Linen be deposited in seven pails,
with the Doctors' chests ; that the eleven hundred Tents
be deposited in equal parts in Worcester, Lancaster, Gro-
ton, Stow, Mendon, Leicester, and Sudbury.

Voted, That these Committees adjourn to nine o'clock
instead of ten.

Voted, That the Papers belonging to the Committees be
lodged with Mr. Abraham Watson.

Newton, April 19, 1775.
Colonel Barrett:

Sir: The Committee have directed me to inform you,
that the cannon-powder which last Saturday you were de-
sired to have removed from Leicester, one load at a time,
and to make up into cartridges, they would not have you
send for, unless you have already ; but, if sent for, take
care of it ; but don't make it into cartridges.

I am, Sir, your humble servant, J. Pigeon, Clerk.

April 21, 1775.
At a meeting of the Committee of Safety, April 2 1st,
1775, the following form of Enlistment was adopted :

" I, A. B., do hereby solemly engage and enlist mysell
as a Soldier in the Massachusetts service, from the day of
my enlistment to the last day of December next, unless the
service should admit of a discharge of a part or the whole
sooner, which shall be at the discretion of the Committee
of Safety ; and I hereby promise to submit myself to all
the orders and regulations of the Army, and faithfully to
observe and obey all such orders as I shall receive from
any superiour officer."

Resolved, That there be immediately enlisted, out of the
Massachusetts Forces, eight thousand effective men, to be
formed into Companies, to consist of a Captain, one Lieu-
tenant, one Ensign, four Sergeants, one Fifer, one Drum-
mer, and seventy rank and file ; nine Companies to form a
Regiment, to be commanded by a Colonel, Lieut. Colonel,
and Major ; each Regiment to be composed of men suitable
for the service, which shall be determined by a Muster-
Master or Muster-Masters, to be appointed for that pur-
pose. Said officers and men to continue in the service of
the Province for the space of seven months from the time
of enlistment, unless the safety of the Province will admit
of their being discharged sooner; the Army to be under
proper rules and regulations.

Voted, That the Field-Pieces be removed from Xewbu-
ryport, and deposited, for the present, into the hands of
Captain Dexter, of Maiden.

Voted, That a Courier be immediately despatched to
Stoughton, to require the immediate attendance of Colonel

745

MASSACHUSETTS COMMITTEE OF SAFETY, APRIL, 1775.

746

Richard GriJley, and his son Scarborovgh Gridlcy, upon
this Committee.

Voted, That a Courier be sent to command the attendance
of David Mason, now upon furlough at Salem.

Voted, That Mr. Mason be ordered to provide one Field-
Piece with every implement necessary for action, and pro-
ceed forthwith to provide for the remainder, till the whole
are in a thorough state of preparation, unless otherwise
ordered ; the Cannon to be provided for are eight three-
pounders and three six-pounders.

Voted, That orders be given to Captain Dexter to con-
ceal the Cannon committed to his care.

Which was accordingly done.

Voted, The Resolve above written be so far reconsidered,
as that the Companies, rank and file, consist of fifty men
each, and that no further obligation be required of those
Companies who are adjudged to be firmly enlisted by their
respective officers.

Voted, That an establishment be proposed for the Troops
at an early day after the meeting of Congress.

Ordered, That Mr. Pigeon, the Commissary-General,
be directed to carry thirty-five barrels of Pork, and half a
barrel of hog's fat, from the Town of Salem to the Town of
Cambridge, by virtue of an order from Mr. William Bond.

Voted, That the General Officers be forthwith desired to
make a return of such Officers and Soldiers as are already
under sufficient engagements to serve in the Massachusetts
Army.

Voted, That the General Officers be desired, with all pos-
sible speed, to give in a list of such Officers as they shall
judge duly qualified to serve as Colonels, Lieutenant-Col-
onels, and Majors, for such a number of Regiments as shall,
with the officers and soldiers already engaged, make up an
army of eight thousand men.

Voted, That Major Bigelow be applied to, to furnish a
Man and Horse to attend the Surgeons, and convey Medi-
cines agreeable to their direction.

April 22, 1775.

Voted, That the Commissary-General be directed to
have the Stores belonging to the Colony removed from all
the sea-port Towns with all possible speed.

Voted, That Captain Foster be ordered to take the care
of the Cannon and Intrenching Tools at Mr. Richardson's
Tavern.

Voted, That the Commissary-General be directed to in-
spect the Intrenching Tools, and if any are out of order, to
see them, with all possible speed, repaired.

April 24, 1775.

Resolved, That General Ward be desired immediately
to direct all the Field-Officers of the Regiments of Minute-
Men, now in Cambridge, to attend the Committee of Safety
at their chamber, at Mr. Steward Hastings's house.

Resolved, That the inhabitants of Chelsea and Maiden
be, and hereby are absolutely forbidden to fire upon, or
otherwise injure any Seamen belonging to the Navy, under
the command of Admiral Graves, unless fired upon by them,
until the said inhabitants of Chelsea and Maiden receive
orders from this Committee, or the General of the Provin-
cial Forces, to do so.

April 25, 1775.

Resolved, That the three Cannon now at Marlborough,
be brought to the Town of Wallham, and mounted on the
carriages prepared for them, till further orders.

Resolved, That Colonel Freeman, of Sandwich, be di-
rected to take such a number of Men as may be sufficient
for the purpose, and secure the Whale and such other Boats
at Cape Cod, as may be of use to this Colony.

Resolved, That Colonel Paul Dudley Sergeant, of New-
Hampshire, be desired forthwith to recommend ten per-
sons belonging to the Colony of New-Hampshire, to receive
beating orders- for the enlistment of persons belonging to
said Colony, until they are discharged by this Committee,
or taken into the service of the Colony of New-Hamp-
shire.

Resolved, That it be recommended to the Provincial
Congress to reduce the Regiments so far as that the Com-
panies consist of fifty-nine men, including officers, and also
that they allow only two Lieutenants to a Company.

Resolved, That be ordered, with the Troop

of Horse under his command, to proceed forward as an
escort to the honourable Members of the Continental Con-
gress, on their way to Philadelphia, until they are met by
an escort from the Colony of Connecticut.

April 26, 1775.

Voted, That an Express be sent off" to General Preble,
at Falmouth, desiring his attendance at Cambridge, as a
general officer, or in his private capacity.

Ordered, That fifteen of the Prisoners at Concord be re-
moved from thence to Worcester Jail immediately.

Upon a motion made, Voted, That the Secretary of this
Committee be directed and empowered to sign any Papers
or writings in behalf of this Committee.

Voted, That Mr. Ephraim Jones, Jail-keeper of Worces-
ter, be directed to receive fifteen Prisoners from the Jail in
Concord.

Voted, That this Committee recommend it to the Pro-
vincial Congress, that they make an establishment for such
a number of Armourers as they may judge necessary for the
Forces belonging to this Colony.

Resolved, That as many men as are not already enlisted,
and incline to remain in the Army, immediately enlist, in
order that it may be ascertained what number may be still
necessary to be raised in each Town to complete the com-
plement of Troops for this Colony, and to forward to each
Town their remaining quota ; and the men that may now
enlist may be assured, that they shall have liberty to be
under the command of such officer as may be appointed by
the Committee of Safety, until the particular Regiment
and Companies are completed ; and the utmost care will be
taken to make every soldier happy in being under good
officers.

On the twenty-fourth of April it was resolved that the
inhabitants of Chelsea and Maiden be, and hereby are ab-
solutely forbidden to fire upon or otherwise injure any Sea-
men belonging to the Navy, under the command of Admiral
Graves, unless fired upon by them, until the said inhabitants
of Chelsea and Maiden receive orders from this Committee,
or the General of the Provincial Forces, so to do :

Resolved, That the Resolve of the twenty-fourth instant,
respecting the inhabitants of Chelsea and Maiden, be recon-
sidered, and ordered that it be immediately remanded; also,

Resolved, That the inhabitants of Chelsea and Maiden
be hereby desired to put themselves in the best state of de-
fence, and exert the same in such manner, as, under their
circumstances, their judgments may direct.

The following Warrant, for supplying an Express on the
Colony service, was issued :

" To all Innkeepers, Taverners, and other persons whom
it may concern :

" You are desired to furnish the bearer, Mr. John Gill,
with all necessaries upon his journey to, and return from
Rhode-Island, as also with horses, if necessary, and to ex-
hibit your accounts to the Committee of Safety for this
Colony, he being an Express in the Colony service."

The following Certificate was given to Doctor Bond :

" In Committee of Safety, Cambridge, )
" April 26, 1775. $

" Doctor Nathaniel Bond, of Marblehead, having been
charged before this Committee with having acted an un-
friendly part to this Colony, the said Committee appointed
Joseph Warren, Esq., Colonel Thos. Gardner, and Lieut.
Colonel Joseph Palmer, as a Court of Inquiry, to examine
witnesses in the case, and hear and determine the same ; and
upon full inquiry into the case, they are clearly of opinion
that said Bond's general behaviour has been friendly to
American liberty ; and though he may have discovered an
imprudent degree of warmth in some instances, yet we do
not find any proof of an inimical temper or disposition to
this Country, and therefore recommend him to the esteem
and friendship of his Country, that (as the errour which
occasioned his being brought before this Committee appears
to have been altogether involuntary, and was such as seve-
ral of our most firm friends were led into, by false rumours
spread, of the transactions of the nineteenth instant) no im-
pressions to the Doctor's disadvantage may remain on the
minds of any person whatsoever.

"Joseph Warren, Chairman."

747

MASSACHUSETTS COMMITTEE OF SAFETY, APRIL, 1775.

748

April 27, 177:>.

Resolved, That Captain Derby be directed, and lie here-
by is directed, to make for Dublin, or any good port in Ire-
land, and from thence to cross to Scotland or England, and
hasten to London. This direction is, that so he may escape
all cruisers that may be in the chops of the Channel to
stop the communicating of the Provincial intelligence to
the Agent.

Voted, That it is the sense of this Committee that it
would promote the service, if two Majors be appointed to
each of the general officers' Regiments, and that it be re-
commended accordingly to the Provincial Congress.

A Letter, dated twenty-sixth instant, was sent to the
Colony of Rhode-Island ; and another, of the same tenour,
was sent to the Colony of Connecticut.

Ordered, That Colonel John Glover take such effectual
methods for the prevention of intelligence being carried on
board the Lively, ship-of-war, Captain Bishop, command-
er, now lying in the harbour of Marblehead, or any other,
as may have a tendency to injure the most important cause
we are engaged in, and that he take such effectual methods
for carrying this order into execution, as shall appear best
calculated to effect this purpose.

April 28, 1775.

Voted, To recommend to the Colony Congress, now sit-
ting in Watertown, and it is recommended accordingly, to
make an establishment for Post-Riders between the Massa-
chusetts Forces and the Town of Worcester.

Also that the said Congress take such order as they may
think proper, to prevent any Town or District taking any
notice of his Excellency General Gage's precepts for call-
ing a General Assembly.

Doctor Warren was appointed to give the sentiments of
this Committee on Lord Dartmouth's Circular Letter to
the other Governments.

Voted, That Mr. President Ijangdon be, and he hereby
is appointed Chaplain of the Army in Cambridge, pro (em.,
and that he be furnished with a copy of this vote.

Major Brown was appointed to give such repairs to the
Cannon at Waltham, as may be judged proper.

Ordered, That the Commissary-General be directed to
provide Quarters for about one hundred and fifty men from
Connecticut, under the command of Major Brown.

Voted, That it is the sense of this Committee that no
Enlisting Orders be hereafter given out, unless a written
order is received from the respective Colonels.

Voted, That for the future, no order go out, to any men
that live in New- York Government, or any other Govern-
ment, for the enlisting of men for the service of this Prov-
ince.

Ordered, That the Cannon now in Medford be immedi-
ately brought to this Town, under the direction of Captain
Foster.

Voted, That General Thomas be desired to distribute
the Orders which he has received, some time since, for
enlisting a Regiment, to such Captains as he thinks proper.
Mr. Henderson Inches, who left Boston this day, attended,
and informed the Committee that the inhabitants of Boston
had agreed with the General, to have liberty to leave Bos-
ton with their effects, provided that they lodged their Arms
with the Selectmen of that Town, to be by them kept
during the present dispute; and that agreeable to said agree-
ment, the inhabitants had, on the yesterday, lodged seven-
teen hundred and seventy-eight Fire-Arms, six hundrfed
and thirty-four Pistols, nine hundred and seventy-three
Bayonets, and thirty-eight Blunderbusses, with their Se-
lectmen.

Voted, That Doctor Warren, Colonel Palmer, and Mr.
Watson, be a Sub-Committee, to take the state of Boston
into consideration, and report as soon as may be.

April 29, 1775.

A Vote of Provincial Congress was read, respecting the
removal of the inhabitants of Boston ; whereupon Colonel
Orne, Mr. Dcvens, and Captain White, were appointed a
Sub-Committee, to take the matter into consideration, and
report as soon as may be.

Voted, That orders be sent into the neighbouring Towns,
requiring one-half of the Militia to be immediately sent
into Roxbury and Cambridge, as a re-enforcement to our

Army, and that the rest of the inhabitants hold themselves
in readiness to march at a minute's warning ; also,

Voted, That Mr. Watson, Captain White, and Colonel
Gardner, be a Sub-Committee to report the Towns to be
sent to, the destination of the re-enforcements, and the ex-
presses to be despatched.

Voted, That the Secretary be directed to empower Ex-
presses to press as many Horses as they may have occasion
for.

Voted, That the Committee of Supplies, at Watertoicn,
be directed to attend this Committee immediately, and that
the Secretary write them accordingly.

Upon information that the supplies of Powder and Ball
at Watertown were in the keeping of the Commissary-
General,

Voted, That General Ward be desired to apply to the
Commissary for such a quantity of said Stores as he may
have occasion for.

Voted, That Dr. Isaac Foster be directed and empower-
ed to remove all the sick and wounded, whose circumstan-
ces will admit of it, into the Hospital, and to supply proper
beds and bedding, clothing, victuals, and furniture, with
every other article that he shall judge proper for said Hos-
pital, and that this be a sufficient order for him to draw on
the Commissary for such articles as he can supply, and to
draw orders on the Commissary for the payment of what-
ever expenses are necessary, for procuring the above-men-
tioned articles.

Voted, That the Secretary desire Messrs. Halls, printers,
at Salem, to print three hundred Letters, to be sent to the
several Towns in the Province.

Captain Benedict Arnold, with a Company, being ar-
rived here from Connecticut,

Ordered, That the Commissary-General be directed to
provide suitable Quarters for said Company.

Upon motion made, Voted, That orders be given to Gen.
Thomas for seizing Governour Hutchinson's Papers.

A Letter from General Thomas, respecting some Compa-
nies of Minute-Men at Dartmouth, was read ; whereupon,

Voted, That Colonel Orne, Colonel Palmer, and Colo-
nel Gardner, be a Sub-Committee to consider and give di-
rections relative to the General's request.

A Letter from Colonel Hancock, now at Worcester, was
read; whereupon,

Voted, That four reams of Paper be immediately ordered
to Worcester by Mr. Barber, for the use of Mr. Thomas,
printer, he to be accountable.

Letter from Medford read ; whereupon, Voted, That the
Company now raised, hold themselves in readiness to march
at a minute's warning; remaining in Medford till further
orders.

The Sub-Committee on Gen. Thomas's Letter, report-
ed, that it be ordered that Capt. Nathaniel Richmond, with
any other Captain that can bring into the camp fifty-six
men, including Sergeants, that will enlist into the service of
this Colony, shall have the encouragement given by the
Provincial Congress, and shall immediately enter into pay
upon their enlistment. The critical situation of our publick
affairs demand the utmost exertion of the friends of Ame-
rica, and should remissness now appear, the consequences
may be fatal.

Voted, That Mr.. Watson be desired to make inquiry
with respect to the Colony Arms not in use, and that Cap-
tain Gutteridge, of the Indian Company, have such a num-
ber as is desired.

Voted, That Colonel Gerrish be desired to send Major
Dunbar, now a prisoner at Head-Quarters, to Woburn,
under a strong guard, and order him to be there kept in safe
custody, till further orders from this Committee.

Voted, That Captain Hill and Company be furnished
with Provisions at any tavern they see fit to call at, in con-
veying Major Dunbar to a place of safety, at the expense
of the Province.

Voted, That Captain Brown, of Watertown, be desired,
upon any advice of the Troops coming out, to order the
Cannon to a place of safety, and that for that purpose he be
empowered to press horses, cattle, &tc.

April 30, 1775.
Captain Benedict Arnold, captain of a Company from
Connecticut, attended, and reports, that there are at Ticon-

749

MASSACHUSETTS COMMITTEE OF SAFETY, MAY, 1775.

750

ileroga eighty pieces of heavy cannon, twenty pieces brass
cannon, from four to eighteen-pounders, and ten or twelve
mortars ; at Skenesborough, on the South Bay, three or
four pieces of brass cannon ; the Fort, in a ruinous condition,
is supposed to have about forty or forty-five men, a number
of small arms, and considerable stores. A sloop of seventy
or eighty tons on the lake.

Voted, That an order be given to Major Bigeloiv, de-
siring him to have the Province Arms, either in Worcester
or Concord, immediately brought to this Town.

Voted, That Mr. John Chandler Williams be directed
to attend this Committee, that he may be employed as an
Express.

Voted, That the Committee appointed yesterday, to
consider the state of the Town of Boston, be now desired
to sit, and form a plan for the liberation of the inhabitants.

The Sub-Committee, on the removal of the inhabitants
from Boston, reported ; which report was accepted, and Dr.
Warren, Col. Palmer, and Col. Orne, were appointed to
wait upon the Congress with the proposals.

Voted, That two Offices be opened to deliver permits for
such persons as desire to enter Boston with their effects.

Voted, That Colonel Samuel Gerrish be appointed to
the office of granting permits, at the house of Mr. John
Greaton, of Roxbury.

Voted, That Colonel William Henshaw be appointed to
the office of granting permits, at the sign of the Sun, in
Charlestoivn.

The following Orders were delivered to Col. Gerrish:

" You are hereby empowered, agreeably to a vote of the
Provincial Congress, to grant liberty that any of the in-
habitants of this Colony, who may incline to go into Bos-
ton with their effects, fire-arms and ammunition excepted,
have toleration for that purpose, and that they be protected
from any injury or insult whatsoever in their removal to
Boston. The following form of a permit is for your govern-
ment, the blanks of which you are to fill up with the names,
and number of the persons, viz :

" Permit A. B., the bearer hereof, with his family, con-
sisting of . . . persons, with his effects, fire-arms and am-
munition excepted, to pass unmolested into the Town of
Boston, between sunrise and sunset.

" By order of the Provincial Congress :

" Joseph Warren, Clerk, pro tern."

Voted, Thai Andrew Craigie be appointed to take care
of the Medical Stores, and to deliver them out as ordered
by this Committee ; and that the Secretary make out his
commission accordingly.

Voted, That it be recommended by this Committee to the
Council of War, that Mr. Joseph Pierce Palmer be appoint-
ed to the post of Quarter-Master General of the Army.

Whereas, proposals have been made by General Gage,
to the inhabitants of the Town of Boston, for the removal
of their persons and effects into the country, excepting
their arms and ammunition :

Resolved, That any of the inhabitants of this Colony,
who may incline to go into the Town of Boston with their
effects, fire-arms and ammunition excepted, have tolera-
tion for that purpose, and that they be protected from any
injury or insult whatsoever ; this Resolve to be immediately
published.

May 1, 1775.

Voted, That the Quarter-Master General be directed
to clear that Chamber in Stoughton College, occupied by
S. Parsons, for a Printing Office for Messrs. Halls.

Whereas, many of our brethren of the. Colonies of Con-
necticut and Rhode-Island are now with us, to assist in
this day of publick and general distress, in which we are
all deeply concerned : and, whereas, our brethren of said
Colonies have brought with them some of the Paper Cur-
rencies of their respective Colonies, which have not of late
had a currency with us, and for want of which our com-
mon interest may greatly suffer :

Resolved, That said Paper Currencies shall, from and
after the date hereof, be paid and received within this
Colony, in all payments, to all intents and purposes, in
the same proportion to silver as the same are paid and
received within the respective Colonies by which the same
have been issued.

Resolved, That Col. Palmer be a Committee to inquire
into the matter, to find what Colonies have such Currencies,
to alter the Resolve agreeably thereto, and to present the
same to the honourable Congress for their consideration.

Voted, That the Reverend Mr. Gordon have free access
to the Prisoners detained at Worcester and elsewhere, and
that all civil Magistrates and others be aiding and assist-
ing him in examining and taking depositions of them and
others.

May 2, 1775.

Doctor Warren, Colonel Palmer, and Colonel Gardner,
were appointed a Sub-Committee to confer with General
Ward, relative to the proposal made by Colonel Arnold,
of Connecticut, for an attempt upon Ticonderoga.

A number of Recantations, from the Town of Marble-
head, having been laid before the Committee for their opin-
ion as to the propriety of receiving them :

Voted, That it is the opinion of this Committee, that
said Recantations be received, and that the persons making
them be made acquainted with the Proclamation lately
issued by Congress, respecting those who may incline to
get into Boston ; and that it be recommended to the inhab-
itants of this Province that they be protected from all inju-
ries or insults whatsoever, so long as they adhere to their
several Recantations, now before this Committee, and con-
tinue to assist and abide by their Country, and the inhabit-
ants of Marblehead in particular, in the important dispute
between Great Britain and America.

Voted, That two Muster-Masters be appointed, one at the
Camp in Cambridge, and one at the Camp in Roxbury.

Voted, That General Thomas be desired to give such
orders respecting the Whale-Boats at Falmouth, and other
parts southward, as he may judge proper.

Voted, That the Massachusetts Congress be desired
to give an order upon the Treasurer for the immediate
payment of one hundred Pounds, in cash ; and also order
two hundred pounds of Gunpowder, two hundred weight
of Lead Balls, and one thousand Flints, and also ten
Horses, to be delivered unto Captain Benedict Arnold,
for the use of this Colony, upon a certain service approved
of by the Council of War : said Arnold to be accountable
for the same, to this or some future Congress, or House of
Representatives of this Colony.

Voted, That two Companies be raised in Braintree, for
the immediate defence of the sea-coast of said Town ; the
said Companies to be joined to such Regiment in future as
they may be ordered to, should there be occasion, or dis-
charged from service as soon as the publick good would
admit of it ; and that Colonel Thayer be furnished with
two sets of enlisting papers for this purpose.

Voted, That General Thomas be, and he hereby is
directed and empowered to stop the Trunks mentioned to
be in Colonel Taylor's hands, until this Committee send
some proper persons to examine their contents.

Resolved, That agreeably to a Vote of Congress, Gen-
eral Thomas be directed and empowered to appoint suit-
able persons to accompany such people into the country as
may be permitted to bring their effects into Boston, upon
the conditions mentioned in the Proclamations posted up,
and that General Thomas give such general orders as he
may judge the common safety requires.

Voted, That Colonel Arnold, appointed to a secret ser-
vice, be desired to appoint two Field-OfScers, Captains,
&.C., to be allowed the same pay during their continuance
in service as is established for officers and privates of the
same rank, who are ordered by the Congress of Massachu-
setts-Bay to be raised for the defence of the rights and
liberties of America; the officers and privates to be dis-
missed by Colonel Arnold, or the Committee of Safety,
whenever they shall think proper.

Voted, That the Committee of Supplies be desired to
procure ten Horses for Colonel Arnold, to be employed on
a special service.

Voted, That Mr. Isaac Bradish, Keeper of the Prison
in Cambridge, be supplied with Provisions out of the Colo-
ny Stores, for the support of the Prisoners under his care,
who have or may be committed by the orders of the Coun-
cil of War, or this Committee.

The Quarter-Master General having informed that some
persons unknown had made spoil of Liquors in the cellars

751

MASSACHUSETTS COMMITTEE OF SAFETY, MAY, 1775.

752

of General Brattle, and Mr. Borland, and others; where-
upon,

Voted, That lie he directed to take possession of those
Liquors, and other Stores, immediately, in all the houses
which are deserted, and that a particular account of such
stores be taken, and they then be committed to the care of
the Commissary-General.

May 3, 1775.

Voted, That two Companies be raised in the Towns of
Maiden and Chelsea, for the defence of the sea-coast of
said Towns, the said Companies to be joined to such Regi-
ments in future as they may be ordered to, should there be
occasion, or discharged from service as soon as the publick
good will admit of it.

Voted, That the Quarter-Master General be directed to
pay the strictest attention, that the Household Furniture,
of those persons who have taken refuge in the Town of
Boston, may be properly secured, and disposed of in places
of safety.

The following Orders were given Colonel Arnold, rela-
tive to an attempt upon Ticonderoga, viz :

To Benedict Arnold, Esquire, commander of a body of
Troops on an expedition to subdue and take possession
of the Fort of Ticonderoga :

Sir: Confiding in your judgment, fidelity, and valour,
we do, by these presents, constitute and appoint you Col-
onel and Commander-in-Chief over a body of men, not
exceeding four hundred, to proceed with all expedition to
the Western parts of this and the neighbouring Colonies,
where you are directed to enlist those men, and with them
forthwith to march to the Fort at Ticonderoga, and use
your best endeavours to reduce the same, taking possession
of the cannon, mortars, stores, &.C., upon the Lake; you
are to bring back with you such of the cannon, mortars,
stores, &sc, as you shall judge may be serviceable to the
Army here, leaving behind what may be necessary to
secure that post, with a sufficient garrison ; you are to pro-
cure suitable provisions and stores for the Army, and draw
upon the Committee of Safety for the amount thereof, and
to act in every exigence, according to your best skill and
discretion, for the publick interest, for which this shall be
your sufficient warrant.

Benj. Church, Jun., for Com. of Safety.

By order : William Cooper, Secretary.

Cambridge, May 3, 1775.

Moved and voted, That the Vote passed the second of
May, respecting the raising of two Companies in Brain-
tree, be reconsidered, and that the copy of said Vote,
together with the two Enlisting Papers, be ordered to be
returned into the hands of said Committee of Safety ;

And whereas, a Petition from the Towns of Braintree,
Weymouth, and Hingham, hath this day been presented to
this Committee, setting forth the exposed situation of those
Towns, and praying for such relief and protection as may
be thought proper : therefore,

Voted, That the Town of Braintree be hereby empow-
ered to raise one Company, the Town of Hingham another
Company, and the Town of Weymouth half of one Com-
pany, for the immediate defence of the sea-coasts of said
Towns ; the said Two Companies and a half to be joined
to such Regiment in future as they may be ordered to,
should there be occasion, or discharged from service on the
last day of December next, or sooner, if the publick safety
will admit of it, and that the Selectmen of said Towns be
furnished with a copy of this Vote, and one set of Beating
Orders, respectively.

May 4, 1775.

Resolved, as the opinion of this Committee, That the
publick good of this Colony requires that Government in
full form ought to be taken up immediately, and that a
copy of this Resolution be transmitted to the Congress now
sitting at Watertown.

The Sub-Committee reported the draught of a Letter to
the Governour and Company of the Colony of Connecti-
cut, requesting the speedy march of three or four thousand
of their men ; which was accepted, and ordered, that a fair
copy be transmitted immediately.

Voted, That William Cooper, Junior, be appointed a
Clerk to this Committee, in the room of Mr. Palmer,
appointed Quarter-Master General ; Samuel Cooper was
added as an Assistant.

Voted, That a Chest of Medicines be removed from
hence to Roxbury, under the care of General Thomas.

There having been eight Guns sent in for the use of the
Colony, Colonel Whitcomb and General Heath were ap-
pointed to appraise the same, who reported as follows, viz :

One Gun taken of Captain How, appraised at £2 00 0

One

((

tt

Joel Brigham,

a

2 00 0

One

U

tt

John Baker,

it

1 08 0

One

tt

tt

Aaron Agar,

tt

2 08 0

One

tt

tt

James Stone,

a

1 04 0

One

tt

tt

Asa Fay,

tt

1 10 0

One

tt

tt

Aaron Fay,

tt

1 01 4

One

it

it

William Bcthank,

tt

0 18 0
£8 09 4

Memorandum. — Colonel Jonathan Ward gave a receipt
for the above Guns, for which he made himself accountable,
which receipt is entered in the Minute-Book.

A Letter was reported for the Inhabitants of New- York ;
which was accepted, and a copy of the same put on file.

Draught of a Letter to the Governour and Company of
Rhode-Island, respecting the sending a number of Troops
immediately, was reported ; whereupon,

Voted, That the same be accepted, and transmitted by
an express.

Voted, That a Sub-Committee may be appointed to
wait upon the Council of War to recommend their giving
orders for a return of the enlisted men, and that they will
take order that such men as are enlisted, may be admitted
to join the Camp with all expedition, that so such men as
are far from home, and do not intend to enlist, may have
leave to depart as soon as it can be done with safety to the
Colony.

Voted, That Colonel Gardner be appointed to lay this
Vote before the Council of War.

Voted, That it be recommended to the Council of War,
that six Companies of each of the two Regiments to be
raised in the County of Plymouth, be ordered to join the
Army at Roxbury, as soon as they are completed ; and that
the four other Companies of each of said Regiments, which
may be raised most contiguous to the sea-coast of said
County, be retained for the immediate defence of said sea-
coast, to be regulated by the Colonels of said Regiments,
until further orders.

Voted, That Colonel Palmer and Colonel Cushing be
appointed to lay the foregoing Vote before said Council.

Advice being received that a number of Transports with
Troops are just arrived at Boston from England, Doctor
Church, Colonel Palmer, and Mr. Devens, were appointed
to confer with the Council of War upon the occasion.

Voted, That Colonel Bricket be desired to take posses-
sion of all the Arms and Ammunition that he shall find in
Mr. Borland's house, and bring them to Head-Quarters.

May 7, 1775.

Whereas, it appears to this Committee, that great uneasi-
ness may arise in the Army by the appointment of Sur-
geons who may not be agreeable to the Officers and Sol-
diers in their respective Regiments : therefore,

Voted, That it be recommended to the Congress to
allow the Colonel of each Regiment to nominate the Sur-
geon for his Regiment ; the said Surgeon to nominate his
Mate ; and, unless there is some material objection made
against them, that they be accordingly appointed.

Mr. George Babcock, charged with the care of a House,
having complained that certain persons had come to said
House, and taken from thence considerable Furniture :

Voted, That this complaint be referred to Congress, and
that Mr. Cushing be desired to accompany said Babcock
there ; and that the above Vote be sent to the Council of
War for their approbation ; which Vote being sent, it was
approved of accordingly.

Resolved, That it be, and hereby is recommended to
the Selectmen and Committee of Correspondence for the

753

MASSACHUSETTS COMMITTEE OF SAFETY, MAY, 1775.

754

Town of Sudbury, that they use their utmost influence
that the effects of Colonel Ezra Taylor, of that Town,
be secured from any injury whatsoever.

Ordered, That the Selectmen and the Committee of
Correspondence for the Town of Chelsea, be desired to
take such effectual methods for the prevention of any Pro-
visions being carried into the Town of Boston, as may be
sufficient for that purpose.

May 9, lTTo.

Moved and Voted, That the Congress be desired to di-
rect their Secretary to furnish this Committee with copies
of all such Resolves as have passed the Congress, any
ways relative to the duty enjoined this Committee ; and
as the circumstances of this Colony are very different from
what they were at their first appointment, the Committee
would represent to the Congress that they apprehend it ne-
cessary that the whole of their duty may be comprised in
a new commission.

The Council of War having determined that two thou-
sand men are necessary to re-enforce the Army now at Rox-
bury, and that if possible the re-enforcement be brought into
camp the ensuing night, this Committee took the vote of
the Council of War into consideration : Whereupon,

Ordered, That the Commanding Officers of the Town
of Dorchester, Dedham, Newton, Watertown, Waltham,
Roxbury, Milton, Braintrce, Broolcline, and Ncedham, im-
mediately muster one-half of the Militia, and all the Minute-
men under their command, and march them forthwith to the
Town of Roxbury, for the strengthening of the camp there.

A Firelock of JV1 r. Borland's was appraised by Colonel
Palmer- and Colonel Orne, at forty shillings, and delivered
Colonel Sergeant, for which he is to be accountable.

A Vote passed, recommending it to the Provincial Con-
gress, that a Court of Inquiry be appointed for the trial of
accused persons.

Voted, That Daniel Taylor, of Concord, be desired to
send down to Cambridge about sixty Oars for boats, from
twelve to sixteen feet in length.

May 10, 1775.

Voted, That one Company of men be raised by the
District of Cohasset, for the immediate defence of the sea-
coast of said District, the said Company to be joined to
such Regiment in future as they may be ordered to, should
there be occasion, or discharged from service, as soon as the
publick good will permit it.

Voted, That Nathan Cashing, Esq., be desired forth-
with to engage four Armourers for the service of this Col-
ony, and order them immediately to repair to the Town of
Cambridge, with their tools and other matters necessary
for that purpose.

Whereas, the Council of War are of opinion, that many
Batteaus, Whale-boats, and other vessels, will immediately,
or very soon be wanted in Charles River, and other places ;
and as there are not a sufficient number of such vessels to
be now obtained ; it is, therefore,

Resolved, That it would be of publick utility to have
one or more Master Carpenters immediately engaged in
that service ; and that this Resolve be immediately sent to
Congress for their consideration.

Mr. Daniel Taylor, of Concord, is empowered to im-
press a Carriage or Carriages for the bringing down Oars
from that Town to Cambridge.

Voted, That Orders be issued to the Colonels of the
several Regiments, to repair, with the men they have en-
listed, to Cambridge, immediately.

The Provincial Congress having resolved that the Gen-
eral Officers be directed forthwith to call in all the Soldiers
who are enlisted in the service of this Colony ; and that
they give immediate orders to all the enlisted Soldiers, and
all others now in the camp at Cambridge and Roxbury,
that they do not depart till the further orders of the Con-
gress : Whereupon,

Voted, That the following Letter be immediately sent
to the respective Colonels of the Army, viz :

Cambridge, May 10, 1775.
Sir: As we are meditating a blow against our restless
enemies, we therefore enjoin you, as you would evidence
your regaid for your Country, forthwith, upon receipt of

this order, to repair to the Town of Cambridge, with the
men enlisted under your command.* We are, &ic.

Voted, That the following Letter, signed by Benjamin
Church, Junior, as Chairman of this Committee, be trans-
mitted to Joseph Warren, Esq., President of the Congress,
to be communicated, viz :

Sir : Conformable to order of Congress, the Committee
of Safety, with the Council of War, have issued orders to
the several Colonels, a copy of which we enclose you.
Upon receiving the Return, those who have completed
their Regiments will be commissioned, agreeably to the
direction of Congress. Those who find it impracticable to
fill their Companies, must be incorporated into other de-
fective Regiments, which is the only plan the Committee
find themselves able to suggest on this emergency ; but
should there finally be a deficiency, enlisting orders must
be given to others. Yours, &c.

On a motion made and seconded, Ordered, That Wil-
liam Goodwin have orders to fetch a number of Boats from
Charlestown, and likewise orders to press Teams for the
same purpose.

Mr. William Goodwin, of Charlestown, was directed
and empowered to take possession of a number of Boats
now at Charlestown , and likewise to press Teams wherever
they may be found, to convey said Boats to Cambridge ,
directing the owners of such Teams to transmit their ac-
counts to this Committee.

Voted, That Mr. Watson be directed and empowered
to remove to Cambridge the Boats now in Menotomy River,
and to impress what Carriages may be necessary.

The Commanding Officers of the neighbouring Regi-
ments were directed forthwith to repair to the Town of
Cambridge, with the men enlisted under their command.

The following Orders, relative to furnishing one of the
Expresses with Provisions, Horses, &c, were issued, viz :

" To all Innkeepers, Taverners, and other persons whom it
may concern :

" You are desired to furnish the bearer, Mr. JohnChandler
Williams, with all necessaries upon his journey and return ;
as also with horses, if necessary, and to exhibit the ac-
counts to the Committee of Safety for this Colony, as he is
now upon the Country service."

May 11, 1775.

Voted, That Mr. William Cooper, Junior, be and he
hereby is appointed a Clerk to Doctor Warren, President
of the Congress.

In Committee of Safety, Cambridge, )
May 11, 1775. $

Whereas, this Committee, as also the Council of War,
is frequently interrupted in very important business, by
hearing and determining matters relative to persons sup-
posed enemies to this Country, under various circumstances,
and other matters in which the publick good is affected,
which obstructs proceedings : Therefore,

Resolved, That this Committee apprehend, that if the
Provincial Congress of this Colony would erect a Court of
Inquiry, to hear and determine all such cases as relate to
persons apprehended and brought before them as enemies
to American liberty, and other cases which Goncern the
publick good, it would be of great publick advantage; and
therefore,

Resolved, That this Vote be immediately transmitted to
said Congress for their consideration.

William Cooper, Secretary.

* May 8, 1775. — An old Campaigner says, he knows by the move-
ments, that there is a stroke meditated somewhere, likely to be to-night ;
he thinks, a feint at the Neck to divert, and a large body to take the
ground on Dorchester Neck.

He advises to send a large body on Dorchester Neck, so as not to be
discovered from the Town, every night, and have a strong body in
Roxbury. If they should observe the Troops landing on Dorchester
Neck, to have force sufficient to cut them off entirely. We in Town
know nothing, nor are able to communicate, as the Tories and Troops
are very vigilant.

May 10, 1775. — Elijah Shaw declares, that General Gage's officers
have said in his hearing, that they shall soon come out ; and that a sol-
dier requested him to convey him into the country, for the Troops
would soon make a push either towards Dorchester Neck or Chelsea ;
but he refined. Farther declares that Earl Percy swears he will be
revenged on some of our men ; and further says that the Troops have
robbed him of eleven cows, throe calves, a yearling heifer, forty-eight
sheep, sixty-one Ltmbs, four hogs, and poultry, hay rive tons, and almost
all his furniture.

Fourth Series. — Vol. ii.

43

755

MASSACHUSETTS COMMITTEE OF SAFETY, MAY, 1775.

756

In Committee of Safety, Cunbri Ige, May 11, 1775.
The Captains IVMinm Goodridgt and Charles De Bell

have applied to this Co littee for assistance in Cash, to

enable them to enlist two Companies from the western parts
of this Colony, having liberty, as they say, from the Gen-
eral, for that purpose. We, thinking that the matter ought
to be laid before the Provincial Congress, have referred it
accordingly. We are, &tc.

May 12, 177.",.

Voted, That Mr. Charles Miller he, and he hereby is
appointed Deputy Commissary to Mr. Pigeon, Commis-
sary-General.

Voted, That orders be given to Mr. Clark, Boat-build-
er, that he give such repairs to the Boats as may be judged
necessary.

Voted, That Mr. Isaiah Thomas have Sixty Reams of
Printing Crown Paper, and Eight Reams of Printing Demy
Paper, supplied him by the Committee of Supplies, they
taking his obligation to be accountable to the Colony for the
amount thereof.

Ordered, That Mr. Charles Miller be, and he hereby is
empowered and directed to impress any Horse he may have
occasion for on the service of the Province.

Voted, That Mr. Joseph Cranch be, and be hereby is
appointed one of the Armourers for the Colony Forces.

The following is the Report of a Joint Committee ap-
pointed by the Committee of Safety and the Council of
War, for the purpose of reconnoitring the Highlands in
Cambridge and Charlestown, viz :

We have carefully examined the lands, and their situa-
tion, in regard of annoying and preventing the enemy from
passing into the country from Boston, and are of opinion
that the Engineers be directed to cause a Breastwork to be
raised near the bridge, by the Red House, at the head of
the Creek, near the road from Cambridge to Charlestown,
on the south side of said road ; also, a Breastwork raised
at the north side of the road, opposite to the said Red
House, and run in the same line as the fence now stands,
upon the declivity of the hill there; also, a Redoubt on the
top of the hill, where the guard-house now stands, and three
or four nine-pounders planted there; also, a strong Re-
doubt raised on Bunker's Hill, with cannon planted there,
to annoy the enemy coming out of Charlestown, also, to
annoy them going by water to Medford. When these are
finished, we apprehend the country will be safe from all
sallies of the enemy in that quarter. All which is humbly

submitted.

Benjamin Church,

Chairman of Sub- Committee from Committee of Safety.

William Henshaw,

Chairman of Sub- Commit tee from Council of War.

The Committee of Safety having taken the foregoing
Report into consideration, apprehend the matter not to
belong to them officially ; and although they are persuaded
the Highlands above-mentioned are important, yet, not
bsing the proper judges what works are necessary to be
constructed to make said posts tenable, are of opinion that
the determination of this matter rests solely with the Coun-
cil of War. Benjamin Chukch, Jk., Chairman.

Ordered, That this Report be sent up to the Council
of War.

The Council of War having sent in to this Committee, a
proposal respecting the suspending the orders of Congress
respecting the removal of the persons and effects of the
Tories, and ordering the Crown Officers through the Con-
tinent to be apprehended :

Resolved, That the recommendation of the Couneil of
War, respecting the seizure of the servants and friends of
Government, improperly so called, and keeping them in
custody until General Gage shall have complied with the
condition proposed by him to the Town of Boston, and
accepted by them, be referred to Congress, for their deter-
mination thereon.

Voted, That this Committee adjourn to Congress, upon
matters of great importance.

May 13, 1T75.
Voted, That Captain Isaac Foster be recommended to
the Council of War, as a suitable person to carry such

Provisions into the Town of Charlestown, for the use of the
inhabitants, as the General shall think proper to permit
to be carried in.

/ otedt That General Thomas be desired to deliver out
Medicines to such persons as he shall think proper, for the
use of the sick Soldiers at Roxbunj, until tin.' Surgeons for
the respective Regiments are regularly appointed.

Voted, That the Provisions and Chest of Medicines be-
longing to Madam J 'usual, now under the care of Colonel
Starts, be stored as Colonel StarJet may direct, till further
orders ; and that the other packages may pass into Boston
or elsewhere.

Ordered, That the Commissary-General, or his Depu-
ty be, and he hereby is directed to supply Captain Rel-
iefer with Provisions for thirteen men for eight days, said
men being discharged by recommendation of the Council of
War, and order of this Committee.

Whereas the Committee are informed, that a number of
men enlisted into the Colony Army, under Colonel Jona-
than Brewer, are now posted at II altham, and are receiv-
ing Provisions from the publiek stores:

Resolved, That the Commanding Officer of the Col-
ony Forces be desired to order said enlisted men at Wal-
tham, immediately to repair to Head- Quarters; and in case
of refusal, that orders be given for the prevention of their
being supplied with Provisions of any kind from the pub-
lick Magazines.

One Thomas Nicols, a negro, brought before this Com-
mittee on account of his suspicious behaviour for some time
past, having been examined :

Resolved, That it be recommended to the Council of
War to commit said negro, until there be further inquiry
into his conduct.

Mr. Solomon Shaw was appointed one of the Armour-
ers for the Army, and General Thomas was desired to ac-
commodate him with a suitable place at Roxbury, for car-
rying on his business.

Ordered, That Mr. Isaac Bradish, Keeper of the Jail
in Cambridge, be directed and empowered to confine one
Thomas Nicols, negro, till further orders.

May 14, 1775.

Ordered, That the Commissary-General supply with
Provisions for six days, four men of Captain Williams' Com-
pany, and three men of Captain Noble's Company : — these
men came down with Colonel Patterson, and are returning
home, being dismissed.

Voted, That Capt. John Currier have one set of Beating
Orders for Colonel Fry's Regiment ; and in case it should
not be consented to by the Colonel, he agrees to join that
Regiment which shall be thought most convenient.

Mr. Andrew Craigie, Commissary of the Medicine, Stores,
Sic., was directed and empowered to impress Beds, Bedding,
and other necessaries for the sick, as they may be wanted,
giving the owners a receipt for such articles as he may take
for the purpose aforesaid.

Resolved, That it be recommended to the Committee
of Supplies to engage ninety-seven barrels of Tar, in the
Sloop Adventure, Samttel Foot master, just arrived at
Salem from Virginia, it being apprehended that the ser-
vice of the Colony requires said Tar being secured.

A Vote of the Council of War, desiring a supply of
Hoes and Brooms, was recommended to the Committee
of Supplies by this Committee.

The following was sent to the gentlemen the Selectmen
of the Town of Lynn :

Whereas Josiah Martin has, under guard, been brought
before this Committee, to be inquired of touching his con-
duct respecting his appearing in favour of carrying into
execution the tyrannical designs of Administration for the
enslaving of this Province: Upon examination of the evi-
dences produced,

Resolved, That the said Martin's conduct has, in some
instances, been unfriendly to his Country ; but that on his
being charged with the same, he has promised, with his life
and fortune, to stand for the defence of his Country ; and
that so long as he evidences this disposition by his conduct,
and does not any more attempt to go into the Town of Bos-
ton, that he be received into the favour of his countrymen,
and that no insult or injury be offered him or his property.

757

MASSACHUSETTS COMMITTEE OF SAFETY, MAY, 1775.

758

The following Resolve, relative to the live-stock on the
islands, near Boston, passed this Committee, viz :

Resolved, As the opinion of this Committee, that all the
live-stock be taken from Noddle's Island, Hog Island, and
Snake Island, and from that part of Chelsea near the sea-
cost, and be driven back. And that the execution of this
business be committed to the Committee of Correspond-
ence and Selectmen of the Towns of Medford, Maiden,
Chelsea, and Lynn, and that they be supplied with such a
number of men as they shall need, from the Regiment
now at Medford.

Resolved, That Colonel Palmer and Colonel Orne be
directed to apply to the Committee of Supplies, at Water-
town, for a particular account of the Ordnance and Mili-
tary Stores, and where the same are deposited, agreeably
to the request of the Council of War.

Voted, That it is the opinion of this body, that all per-
sons escaping from their imprisonment, in the Town of
Boston, ought to be received and protected in the several
Towns in this and the neighbouring Colonies, except such
as are of principles inimical to the liberties of their Coun-
try, who are not to be received but on their first recanting
their said principles, and making their peace with their
countrymen to the satisfaction of the Selectmen, Commit-
tees of Inspection, &.c, in the Town to which they shall
apply : and that the wives and children of such persons who
shall choose to remain in Boston with General Gage, may
and ought to be treated with humanity and tenderness in the
several Towns they may go to dwell in, during the present
troubles, and by no means to suffer the least injury, or meet
with the smallest mark of disrespect upon account of their
said husbands or fathers.

The Council of War, having recommended that forty
persons of the Regiment commanded by Colonel Fellorvs
have liberty to return to their several homes :

Resolved, That they be dismissed accordingly, and that
the Commissary-General be directed to supply said persons
with six days' provisions, to serve them on their return home.

This Committee, having been informed by the Commit-
tee of Supplies that they had secured as much Naval Stores
as Colonel Gridley of the Train had indented for:

Voted, That Captain Foot be permitted to deliver the
cargo, (Naval Stores not excepted,) agreeably to the bills
of lading he had signed for the same.

Voted, That Mr. William Haskins be, and he hereby
is appointed first clerk to the Deputy Commissary-General.

The Council of War having recommended that Captain
Joseph Foster, Thomas Jenkins, James Lammans, John
Rutherford, Jonathan March, J. Mensh, J. Simmins, J.
Crost, of Colonel Porter's Regiment, who are not enlisted,
may be dismissed, they were accordingly dismissed, and
had an order on the Commissary-General for four days'
provisions each.

Voted, That Matthew Clark and five other persons, who
are repairing the Boats brought to this Town, be supplied
with Provisions while they are at work for the Colony.

May 15, 1775.

The Sub-Committee, appointed to apply to the Com-
mittee of Supplies for a particular account of the Ordnance
and Military Stores, reported, and handed into the Commit-
tee the following List, viz :

A List of Military Stores under the cart of Captain
Foster, nx:
At Cambridge : — pick axes, 460 : hatchets, 23 : seven-
inch shells, 298 : spades, 190 : pieces of cannon 24 : axes,
156 : boxes of grape shot, 41 J : hogsheads of flints con-
taining 75,000, 2: carpenter's tool chests, 2: boxes. of
axes, 4 : 4 barrels 1 cask leaden balls : boxes of small arm
cartridges, 18: barrels of bomb fuses, 1 : barrels of matches,
1 : chests of tin cannisters, 2: boxes of paper for car-
tridges, 1 : nine-pound ball, 607: six-pound balls, 1123:
four-pound ditto, 200 : two-pound ditto, 800 : seven-inch
shells, 298: twenty-four pound ball, 122: three-pound
ditto, 620 : No. 1 and 2 paper cartridges for cannon boxes,
2: one barrel containing four tube cannisters, 16 straps, 4
packs, 4 powder-horns, 5 skeins dry matches : 1 barrel of
cannisters filled with langrage, but no cartridges affixed to
them, for 6 pounders : 4 casks, marked, paper cartridges
filled: 1 barrel, marked, 84 two-pound cartridges.

Under the care of Colonel Barrett and Captain Hey*

WOOD.

Musket balls, 9,000 : grape shot, 1,600 : bar lead, 700 :
musket cartridges, about 3,000 weight : 3 barrels of band-
ages.

More at Cambridge, under the care of Captain Foster.
2 casks of tubes: 1 barrel, marked, 60 cases with flan-
nel cartridges for three pair single fortified guns: 2 barrels
containing case shot, part fuses and tubes: 1 barrel con-
taining a number of paper cartridges not filled : 2 casks of
cases with flannel cartridges, marked I. T. T.

Attest: Alexander Shepherd, Jun.,

By order of the Committee.

Moved and Voted, That the original list of Military
Stores be handed in to the Council of War; and it was
handed in accordingly.

Voted, That the Hampshire Companies, now at Med-
ford, if enlisted into this Colony's service, under Colonel
Stark or Colonel Sargeant, and properly equipped, shall
be provided with barracks; those of them, if any, who are
not, and do not choose to be enlisted, and are not equipped,
are to be furnished with provisions for their return.

Voted, That Captain John Walker of Worcester, who
came down to this Committee for liberty to go into Bos-
ton, upon the Proclamation issued by Congress, be appre-
hended, and confined as a prisoner of war, he being a half
pay officer, and under the orders of General Gage, and so
not included in said Proclamation.

Upon a motion made, the question was put, whether
Colonel Phipps be permitted to have a Cow, Calf, and a
load of Hay, go into the Town of Boston: passed in the
negative.

Voted, That Captain Naler Hatch, with the Maiden
Company, be assigned to Colonel Gardner's Regiment;
but they are to remain in Maiden until the special order of
Colonel Gardner shall be received for their attendance
elsewhere.

Voted, That nine Indians, of Colonel Porter's Regi-
ment, have liberty to return home, and that the Commis-
sary-General be directed to furnish them with six days'
Provisions for that purpose, the same having been recom-
mended by the Council of War.

Upon the application of Lady Frankland* Voted, that
she have liberty to pass into Boston with the following
goods and articles for her voyage, viz :

Six trunks ; 1 chest ; 3 beds and bedding ; 6 wethers ; 2
pigs ; 1 small keg of pickled tongues ; some hay ; 3 bags
of corn ; and such other goods as she thinks proper.

The following permit was granted:

To the Colony Guards :

Permit Lady Frankland of Hopkinton, with her attend-
ants, goods, and the provisions above mentioned, to pass to
Boston, by express order of the Committee of Safety.

Benjamin Church, Jun., Chairman.

Head-Quarters, May 15, 1775.

Voted, That the Letters and writings from New-York,
via New-London, relative to the establishing a Post-Office
and Riders, for the service of the Colony, be sent to the
Congress.

Voted, That John Tucker, of Colonel Porter's Regi-
ment, be dismissed from the service, and that he be fur-
nished by the Commissary with seven days' Provisions.

Voted, That Jonathan Blaisdel, of Amesbury, be ap-
pointed an Armourer for the Army.

•Hopkinton, May 15, 1775. — Lady Frankland presents hor com-
pliments to Doctor Warren, begs leave to acquaint him, she has sent in
a list of tilings necessary for her voyage to England; begs he would
MM his interest with the Committee of Safety, that her request may
be granted, which will lay Lady F. under a very great obligation to
Doctor Warren, and on her return to New-England, if it is ever in her
power, will return the obligation with thanks.

Hopkinton, May 15, 1775. — -Lady Frankland presents her compli-
lni'iils to the Committee of Safety, begs leave to acquaint them, that
according to their request, sho has sent in a list of things necessary
for her intended voyage, which obtained Lady F. will esteem as a
peculiar favour ; and bogs she may have hor pass for Thursday.

A list of things for Lady Frankland : — Six trunks ; one chest ; three
beds and bedding; six wethers; two pigs; one small keg of pickled
tongues; some hay: three bags of corn.

759

MASSACHUSETTS COMMITTEE OF SAFETY, MAY, 1773.

760

Resoled, Thai Mr. Borland's house be appropriated
for the use of the Committee of Safety ; and the Quarter-
Master General is directed to provide Quarters for the
Troops now lodged at said house.

Voted, That the Quarter-Master General be directed
to remove as many of the three Companies now at Mr.
Borland's, to the house of Doctor Kneeland, as the boose
ran accommodate, and that the three Companies in Mr.
Vat toft house be placed at Mr. FoaxrtkJFs bouse, and
that Mr. Borland's house be cleared and cleansed as soon
as possible.

Hetolvtd, That it be recommended to the Honourable
Congress, that the Records of the Probate Office for the
County of Middlesex, supposed to be at Mr. Danforth's
and Doctor Kncc/and's houses, be removed to Doctor Mi-
not's, at Concord, and, that the Records of the County, at
Mr. Foxcroft's office, be removed to said Minor's house.

The following Certificate was delivered to Mr. John
Goddard, viz :

"This is to certify, that Mr. John Goddard has been
appointed by the joint Committees of Safety and Supplies
as Wagon-Master to this Colony, to convey such articles
of Stores from one part of this Colony to another as the
publick exigencies shall require, under the direction of the
Commissary-General and Ordnance Store Keeper, and that
such other Wagoners or Drivers are to be employed, as
he shall recommend for that purpose."

The following Permit was given to Captain Walker:
" Permit Captain John Walker, now on his parole of
honour, to pass unmolested to his family at Worcester."

Mr. John Goddard, Wagon-Master, was directed and
empowered, in case of emergency, to impress such Wag-
ons and Cattle as shall be requisite for the publick ser-
vice.

Voted, That the clearing Mr. Borland's and Mr. Vas-
sal's houses be suspended till further orders.

Voted, That Thomas Austin, of Charlestown, be, and
hereby is appointed an Armourer for the Army.

Voted, That the above Vote, appointing Mr. Thomas
Austin one of the Armourer for the Army, be, and hereby
is reconsidered.

Miy 1G; 1775.

In a Letter from Colonel James Barrett, of this day, it
is represented, that a prisoner now at Worcester is a Paper-
maker, and that Mr. James Boice, of Milton, is in want
of such a person in his Paper Manufactory ; therefore,

Resolved, That Colonel Barrett be, and he hereby is
directed and empowered, to remove said prisoner from
Worcester to said Boice's Manufactory in Milton.

Voted, That Captain Hill, and four men, with four pri-
soners, have an order for Supplies on the Taverners and
lnnholders in the Towns they pass through.

Whereas, it is recommended by the Council of War,
that fifty-four Whale-Boats be immediately provided for
the use of this Colony :

Resolved, That a copy of said Vote of the Council of
War be transmitted to the Committee of Supplies, and
that they be desired to procure and place said Boats, agree-
able to the recommendation of the Council of War.

Voted, That Captain Butler be desired to furnish those
men of his own Company with Arms, who are destitute
thereof.

By a Resolve of the Provincial Congress, the following
is the establishment for ten Companies of Matrosses :

Captain, - £6 10*. Od. per month,

Captain-Lieutenant, - 5 10 0 (i

First Lieutenant, - 4 10 0 "

Two Second Lieutenants, each, 3 12 0 "

Sergeants, each, - 2 10 0 "

Corporals, each, - - 2 6 0 "

Six Bombadiers, each, 2 4 6 "

Six Gunners, each, - 2 4 0 '•'

Thirty-two Matrosses, each, 2 3 0 "

Voted, That Colonel Gridley have one set of Beating
Orders, for a Company of Matrosses.

Voted, That Colonel Azor Orne have one of the Col-
lege Arms, he giving a receipt for the same.

M y 17, 177.-).

Whereas, it is determined, in Council of War, that ten
Swivels be immediately provided for the use of the Army,
ami delivered in Camp, at Cambridge :

Resohed, That a copy of the foregoing Vote be trans-
mitted to the Committee of Supplies, and that they be
desired to procure said Swivel-Guns accordingly.

Resolved, That the three pieces of Cannon, with the
Stores, now at Waltham, be immediately removed to Wa-
teriovm, near the bridge, by advice of the General ; and
thai Mr. Elbriilgc Gerry, one of the Committee of Sup-
plies, be desired and empowered to remove the same.

Ordered, That Colonel Ome, Doctor Chun-h. and Col-
onel Palmer, be a Committee to repair to the Provincial
Congress, and request, that forthwith the duty of the Com-
mittee of Safety be precisely stated, and that said Committee
be empowered by Congress to conduct in such manner as
shall tend to the advantage of the Colony ; and justify the
conduct of said Committee, so far as their proceedings are
correspondent with the trust reposed in them ; and to in-
form the Congress, that until the path of their duty is
clearly pointed out, they must be at a total loss how to
conduct, so as to stand justified in their own minds, and in
the minds of the people of this Colony.

Mr. William Beman, in Colonel Fellows' s Regiment, is
appointed by this Committee to act as an Armourer for the
forces posted at Roxbury.

Resolved, That Mr. Joseph Austin, of Charlcstou-n, be
directed to attend upon the Committee of Safety, imme-
diately.

Voted, That Colonel Fellows be directed to procure a
Shop and Tools, and every material necessary for an armour-
er, at Roxbury, to work immediately in the Colony service.

Voted, That the Commissary deliver Mr. Matthew
Clark sixty Oars, for the use of this Colony.

Voted, That the carrying any Hay into the Town of
Boston, on account of John Borland, Esq., be suspended
until further order from this Committee.

Voted, That Mr. Stephen Hall be appointed to inspect
the College Walls, and see that they be kept in proper
repair.

Voted, That the Selectmen of Cambridge be directed
to supply General Ward with four half barrels of Powder,
for the use of this Colony.

Whereas, General Gage has not kept his agreement with
the inhabitants of the Town of Boston, but, notwithstand-
ing his said agreement, has prevented, and even refused
said inhabitants, with their effects, from moving into the
country : Therefore,

Resolved, That it be recommended to the Congress,
that they rescind their Resolution of the 30th ultimo, per-
mitting the inhabitants of this Colony to remove, with their
effects, into the Town of Boston, which Resolution was
founded upon said agreement.

Resolved, That Colonel Orne and Colonel Palmer be
directed to attend the Congress, with the above Resolve.

Resolved, That in case of an alarm, this Committee will
repair to Coolidge's Tavern, in Watertown.

Upon a motion made, Voted, That Captain How be
directed to restore the six sets of Enlisting Papers, which
he this day took out without the consent of the Commit-
tee, by a fraud practised upon the Chairman.

Voted, That application be made to his Excellency
General Ward, that he would order Edward How under
guard, until this Committee can have a full hearing of his
case.

Whereas, one Mr. Mellicant, of Waltham, who is an
officer in His Majesty's service, under half pay, is suspect-
ed, by means of his, said Mellicant' s, wife having free access
into and out of the Town of Boston, of communicating
such intelligence to our enemies as may have a tendency
to injure the important cause we are engaged in, and, in
some degree, defeat the plans forming for the salvation of
this Colony and Continent: Therefore,

Resolved, That the Selectmen and Committee of Cor-
respondence of the Town of Waltham, be, and hereby are
directed and empowered to take such effectual methods for
the preventing any intelligence going into the Town of
Boston, by means of the abovesaid Mr. Mellicant, or any
of his family, as to them, in their wisdom, shall seem
meet.

761

MASSACHUSETTS COMMITTEE OF SAFETY, MAY, 1775.

7b2

Whereas, some of the Students of Harvard College are
in possession of Arms and Bayonets belonging to the Col-
ony, which were sent them for the purpose of their obtain-
ing skill in military discipline :

Voted, That they be and hereby are desired to cause
the same to be delivered, as soon as may be, to Mr. Wil-
liam Hunt, of this place; and all other persons having in
possession Anns or Military Stores, of any kind, belonging
to the Colony as aforesaid, are also desired forthwith to
deliver the same to the said Mr. William Hunt.

And whereas, the Surgeons of the Massachusetts Forces
are in want of considerable quantities of Linen Rags, either
coarse or fine :

Voted, That the female friends to America, in the neigh-
bouring Counties, are hereby desired to send such quantities
of Rags as they can spare, to the Selectmen of their re-
spective Towns ; and the Selectmen are desired to cause
the same to be delivered at Cambridge, to Commissary
Craigie, at the Hospital ; and the expenses of transporta-
tion shall be paid by the Committee.

M ly 19, 1775.

Voted, That Captain John Lane have Enlisting Papers
delivered him, for raising a Company of Indians at the
Eastward.

The following Certificate was delivered Colonel Gerrish
for the Provincial Congress:

" Colonel Samuel Gerrish having satisfied this Committee
that his Regiment is full, we recommend to the Congress
that said Regiment be commissioned accordingly."

Ordered, That Mr. Newall proceed to Watertown, and
lodge the ten Swivel-Guns he has under his care, at Edward
Richardson's, innholder, in said Watertown, it being re-
commended by General Ward.

The Committee of Correspondence of the Town of
J\orthborough having sent a certain Ebenezer Cutler to
this Committee for trial, upon complaint of his being an
enemy to this Country ; and this Committee not having
authority to act in the case, as they apprehend, do refer the
matter to Congress.

Col. Ebenezer Learned having satisfied this Committee
that his Regiment is full, it was recommended to the Con-
gress that said Regiment be commissioned accordingly.

The following Letter of Directions to the several Col-
onels, was forwarded, viz :

Sir: The necessity of completing the Colony Army,
and the suspicions entertained by some of the officers who
have been engaged in recruiting men, oblige us to request
your immediate Return to this Committee of the number
of men enlisted in your Regiment, with the names of the
Officers of said Regiment, as the Congress have urged for
those Returns, that Commissions may be issued, and due
subordination take place.

Voted, That Mr. John Wood, of Roxbury, be and here-
by is appointed an Armourer for the Army.

Voted, That Mr. Dike, of Bridgewater, be and here-
by is appointed an Armourer for the Army.

General Thomas was informed by Letter, that the Com-
mittee had appointed Messrs. Beman, Shaw, Wood, and
Dike, as Armourers for the Forces posted at Roxbury, and
was desired to acquaint the Committee if any further ap-
pointments were necessary.

Voted, That Doctor Church have an order for a Horse
and Sulkey, and a single Horse, for his journey to I'hilu-
dclphia, upon the Province account.

Whereas some persons have hinted that Samuel Barrett,
Esquire, of Boston, has, in some instances, been unfriendly
to his Country and the common cause of liberty, for which
this Colony now suffers and bleeds ; and as such sugges-
tions may have a tendency to injure him, we have inquired
into the conduct of the said Samuel Barrett, Esq., during
the unnatural contest between Great Britain and the Col-
onies, and from his acts and explicit declarations, we have
reason to think that he is friendly to the rights and liber-
ties of this his native Country, and we recommend him
accordingly.

May 20, 1775.

Voted, That Captain Edward How, Ebenezer Cutler,
and Zsicols, a black fellow, now under guard, be sent up to

Congress for examination and trial, and Captain White is
appointed to attend Congress with the above-named per-
sons.

Voted, That the General be desired to furnish a Guard
for the occasion.

Voted, That for the future no person having orders to
impress Horses, shall impress the Horse of Deacon Timo-
thy Winn, of Woburn, he and his horse being employed in
the Colony service.

Resolved, That it is the opinion of this Commitfc
the contest now between Great Britain and the Colonies
respects the liberties and privileges of the latter, which the
Colonies are determined to maintain, that the admission of
any persons as Soldiers into the Army now raising, but only
such as are Freemen, will be inconsistent with the princi-
ples that are to bo supported, ami reflect dishonour on this
Colony; and that no Slaves be admitted into this Army
upon any consideration whalev r.

Colonel Joseph Reed having satisfied this Committee
that his Regiment is full, a Certificate was given hitn of the
same ; and it was recommended to the honourable the
Provincial Congress that his Regiment might be commis-
sioned accordingly.

Colonel Read had thirteen sets of Regulations for the
Army delivered him by order.

Mr.y 22, 1775.
Whereas it appears to this Committee that no immediate
service renders it necessary that Riders should be kept in
pay at present : Therefore,

Voted, That all such Riders as have been employed by
this Committee be, from this day, discharged from said
service.

Miy '23, 1775.
This Committee find themselves much at a loss for a
rule by which to determine when a Regiment may be said
to be full, and beg leave to suggest to the honourable Con-
gress, whether a certificate from the Muster-Master, rela-
tive to the premises, will not be a good rule for ascertaining
when a Regiment is complete; and said Committee beg
instructions in the matter.

Benjamin White, Chairman.

Whereas, our enemies make frequent excursions to the
Islands and Sea-Coasts, from whence they plunder Hay,
Cattle, and Sheep, which not only greatly injures many in-
dividuals, but also the publick, and strengthens the hands
of our enemies : Therefore,

Resolved, That it he recommended to the Honourable
Congress to take take some effectual measure to secure
the stock on the Islands and Sea-Coasts, to prevent its fall-
ing into the hands of our enemies.

Whereas, this Committee have taken into their most se-
rious consideration the state of the New-England Army,
proposed to be raised for the defence and security of the
lives, liberties, and property of the Americans, and find
that the several Colonies have not, collectively, raised more
than twenty-four thousand five hundred men, whereas thirty
thousand were supposed to be necessary; and the said
Committee also find a considerable number of officers of
Minute-men now at Head-Quarters, who, with their men,
cannot find room for employment in the Army, upon the pre-
sent establishment of this Colony ; and as our enemies have
determined to distress us upon our Sea-Coasts, by taking
our vessels, with provisions, salt, molasses, &i.c, as well as
by plundering our Islands and Coasts of live stock, which
will require a greater number of men to guard said coasts
than was at first estimated ; and as said Army, or any part
thereof, may be disbanded at any future time, when the
publick safety will admit thereof; and as the publick mili-
tary spirit runs high : it is, therefore,

Resolved, That the consideration of these premises be
recommended to the honourable Congress ; and that Col-
onel Palmer be directed to attend said Congress with this
Resolve, in order to know whether they will make any ad-
dition to the present establishment.

May 24, 1775.

Voted, That the Commissary-General be directed to
supply John Carter and three others with Provisions, as
Armourers and Coopers, now in the Province service.

763

MASSACHUSETTS PROVINCIAL CONGRESS, APRIL, 1775.

764

Colonel Scammon haviog satisfied the Committee that
his Regiment was nearly full, a Certificate was given him
thereof; and it was recommended to the Provincial Con-
ss that his Regiment be commissioned accordingly.

General Thomas having satisfied this Committee that his
Regiment was complete, a Certificate was given him there-
of; and it was recommended to the Provincial Congress
that his Regimen! be commissioned accordingly.

Resolved, That it be recommended to Congress imme-
diately to take such order respecting the removal of the
Sheep and Hay from Noddle'* Island, as they may judge
proper, together with the slock on the adjacent islands.

Voted, That the Commissary-General be directed to
supply twenty-five men of Captain Sprague's Company,
who are stationed at Clicked.

May 2fi, 1775.

The Congress having passed a Resolve, that the house
of John Vassal, Esquire, be appropriated for the use of the
Committee of Safety : Therefore,

Resolved, That the Quarter-Master General be directed
to clear the said house immediately of the Soldiers now
lodged there, that it may be improved for that purpose.

Colonels Ward and Gardner having satisfied this Com-
mittee that their Regiments were in good forwardness, a
Certificate to that purpose was given them ; and it was
recommended to the honourable Provincial Congress that
said Regiments be commissioned accordingly.

Colonels Patterson and William. Prescott having satis-
fied this Committee that their respective Regiments are
nearly full, a Certificate was given them of the same; and
it was recommended to the Provincial Congress that said
Regiments be commissioned accordingly.

Colonels Cotton and Bridge having satisfied this Com-
mittee that their respective Regiments are full, a Certificate
was given them thereof; and it was recommended to the
Provincial Congress that said Regiments be commissioned
accordingly.

Colonels Asa Whitcomb, Frye, and Dooliltle, having
satisfied this Committee that their respective Regiments
are nearly full, a Certificate was given them thereof; and
it was recommended to the honourable the Provincial Con-
gress that said Regiments be commissioned accordingly.

Colonel Walker having satisfied this Committee that his
Regiment was complete, a Certificate was given him there-
of; and it was recommended to Congress that said Regi-
ment be commissioned accordingly.

Colonel Donaldson having satisfied this Committee that
his Regiment is in good forwardness, a Certificate was
given him thereof; and it was recommended to the hon-
ourable Congress that said Regiment be commissioned ac-
cordingly.

May 27, 1775.

Colonel Mansfield having satisfied this Committee that
his Regiment is in good forwardness, he had a Certificate
thereof, and a recommendation to Congress that the Regi-
ment be commissioned accordingly.

Mr. Wesson, keeper of Thomas Oliver, Esquire's, farm,
had orders to secure any creatures that might be put into
his enclosures by ill-disposed persons, and to inform the
Committee thereof.

Votid, That agreeable to the recommendation of Gen-
eral Ward, Jacob Rhodes, of Charlestown, be empowered
to impress such Cattle as may be necessary for the removal
of two Boats from that Town to Cambridge.

Joseph Smith, keeper of John Vassal, Esquire's, farm,
had orders to secure any creatures that might be put into
his enclosures by ill-disposed persons, and to inform the
Committee thereof.

May 28, 1775.

A number of Guns taken from some persons in Grafton,
were appraised by a Sub-Committee appointed for that
purpose, and delivered Luke Dritry, for the use of his

Company, and a receipt taken in the rough minutes, as,
reference thereto being had, will particularly appear.

May 29, 1775.

A number of Letters taken from Robert Temple, Esq.,
by the Committee of Safety of Cohasset, were sent to this
Committee for examination, and though the Committee
think that the matter is not strictly within their commis-
sion, yet, considering that the present Congress must be
dissolved this day, and the good and safety of this Colony
may be affected by an immediate examination of said Let-
ters : Therefore,

Resolved, That the matter be immediately taken up by
the Committee ; and as Mr. Temple is now attending, that
he be so directed respecting said Letters, as shall, after ex-
amination, appear necessary to promote the greatest good
of this Colony.

Voted, That a Committee be chosen to diaw up a Cer-
tificate for Mr. Temple, and an order for his receiving the
goods taken from him.

The Committee, appointed for that purpose, reported a
Certificate, which was accepted, and is as follows, viz :

" Whereas the Committee of Inspection of the District of
Cohasset, have transmitted to us a number of Letters found
in the possession of Robert Temple, Esq. ; and this Com-
mittee having carefully inspected said Letters, and had the
said Mr. Temple before them, and examined him, both with
regard to his principles and conduct in the present contro-
versy between Great Britain and the Colonies in America :
And whereas, we think it the duty of this Committee, at
the same time that we applaud the vigilance of the Com-
mittee of Cohasset, who have stopped those Letters, and that
of the Town of Plymouth, who have sent two of their
members with Mr. Temple to this Committee, to do justice
to individuals; in consequence of which we Resolve, that
it be recommended to the Committee at Cohasset to deliver
Mr. Temple such articles of his as are now in their posses-
sion ; and likewise that they, and all others, consider and
treat him as a friend to the interest of this Country, and the
rights of all America."

Colonel Quincy, of Braintree, having proposed to this
Committee the erecting a small defensive work against the
depredations of our enemies, upon the farms in his neigh-
bourhood, they do refer the matter to the Council of War.

Colonel Fellows having satisfied this Committee that his
Regiment is full, he had a Certificate thereof, and a recom-
mendation that said Regiment be commissioned according-
ly, was given him for the honourable Congress.

It being expected that the present Congress will be dis-
solved this night, and hearing that one volume of copies of
Mr. Hutchinson's Letters are in the hands of Captain Mc-
Lane, at the upper Paper-Mills, in Milton, which volume
may be of use to this Colony, if in the hands of the Pro-
vincial Congress : Therefore,

Resolved, That the Reverend Mr. Gordon, of Roxbury,
be desired and empowered to receive from said Captain
McLane all such copies as are in his hands, or in any other
hands, and to be accountable to the present or some future
Congress for the same.

May 30, 1775.
Elisha Lettinwell was directed to proceed with two
Teams to Chelsea, and bring from thence the Cannon and
other Stores saved from the Schooner which has been
burned by our people, and to lodge said Stores in this
Town.

MASSACHUSETTS PROVINCIAL COXCRES8.

Journal of the Proceedings of the Congress of the Colony
of Massachusetts-Bay; assembled at Concord, Sa-
turday, Ai'ril 22, 1775.

Mr. Richard Devens, Chairman.
Mr. John Murray, Clerk.
Mr. Gerry represented to Congress, that a Letter from
Mr. Quincy to Mr. Adams, had been delivered to him,

with a desire that it might be opened by Congress in Mr.
Adams's absence :

After some debate,

Ordered, That the Members present, belonging to the
Committee on the state of the Province, retire, open, and
peruse the said Letter, and report to Congress what parts
thev think proper.

The Committee retired, and desired that the whole be
read in Congn

7G5

MASSACHUSETTS PROVINCIAL CONGRESS, APRIL, 1775.

766

Which being done,

Ordered, That the same be sent to Doctor Warren, to
be used at his discretion.

Adjourned to Watertown, at four o'clock, P. M.

Watortown, 4 o'clock, P. M.

Congress met according to adjournment.

Ordered, That Mr. Watson notify the Committee of
Safety of the time and place of our adjournment, and re-
quest their attendance with whatever plans they may have
in readiness for us; and also notify the absent members
that are at Cambridge, and request their punctual attend-
ance.

Ordered, That Mr. Sullivan, Colonel Gushing, and Mr.
Crane, be a Committee to wait on the Selectmen for lib-
erty of the Meeting-House during the session of Congress
here.

They returned, and reported that the Selectmen readily
granted their request.

Ordered, That Mr. Gerry, Colonel dishing, Colonel
Barrett, Captain Stone, Dr. Taylor, Mr. Sullivan, Mr.
Freeman, Mr. Watson, and Esquire Dix, be a Committee
to take Depositions, in pcrpetuam, from which a full account
of the transactions of the Troops under General Gage, in
their route to and from Concord, &tc, on Wednesday last,
may be collected, to be sent to England by the first ship
from Salem.

Adjourned to this place, to-morrow, at 7 o'clock, A. M.

Sunday, April 23, 1775.

Congress met conformably to adjournment, and adjourn-
ed to the School-House.

Upon a Letter from General Ward, respecting the New-
Hampshire Troops,

Resolved unanimously, That it is necessary for the de-
fence of the Colony, that an army of Thirty Thousand Men
be immediately raised and established.

Resolved, That Thirteen Thousand Six Hundred Men
be raised immediately by this Province.

Resolved, That the Committee of Safety be a Commit-
tee to bring in a plan for the establishment of the Officers
and Soldiers necessary for the Army, to be raised at this
time, and that they sit immediately.

Voted, That Colonel dishing, Mr. Sullivan, Colonel
Whitcomb, and Mr. Durant, be added to the Committee
of Safety.

Resolved, That Mr. Sullivan be a Committee to wait
on the New-Hampshire Congress at Exeter, to inform them
of our Resolutions, and request their concurrence ; and that
Major Bliss go to Connecticut, and Deacon Rawson to
Rhode-Island, for the same purpose.

Ordered, That Mr. Sullivan be a Committee to inform
the Committee from the Congress of New-Hampshire, now
waiting, of our Resolutions immediately.

Resolved, That Mr. Murray, Mr. Gill, and Captain
Stone, be a Committee to draught a Letter to each of the
Colonels, to be sent by the express.

Adjourned to this place, at two o'clock, P. M.

Afternoon, 2 o'clock.

Congress met according to adjournment, and adjourned
to the Meeting-House.

Being there met, the Committee reported a draught of
a Letter to the Colonels, which was accepted, and ordered
to be copied by Captain Sto7ie.

Mr. Gerry read in his place a Letter from Marblehead ,
reporting that the British Man-of-War Lively was lying
off the Harbour of that Town ; representing that their
means of defence were inadequate to repel attack ; and
asking direction and aid ; upon which,

Resolved, That the matter subside until further informa-
tion.

Doctor Warren read a Letter from the Committee of
Correspondence of Connecticut :

Ordered, That Mr. Gerry, Mr. Gill, and Doctor Tay-
lor, be a Committee to draught an Answer, and report im-
mediately.

Ordered, That Colonel Orne, Major Fuller of New-
ton, and Major Fuller of Middleton, be a Committee to
count and sort the votes for a President pro tempore.

The Committee reported that the vote was full for Doc-
tor Warren.

Colonel Palmer was chosen Secretary pn, tempore.

The Committee reported a Resolve for the establishment
of the Army ; which being read, was referred for further
consideration.

A report was made of a draught of an Answer to the
Committee of Connecticut, which, after amendment, was
accepted.

Voted, That a Committee be appointed to draw up a
Narrative of the Massacre on Wednesday last.

Ordered, That Doctor Church, Mr. Gerry, and Mr.
dishing, be that Committee.

Resolved, That the Establishment of Forces, now imme-
diately to be raised, for the recovery and preservation of
our undoubted rights and liberties, be as follows, viz:

Per Month.

To each Colonel of a Regiment of 598 men, £15 00

To one Lieulenant-Colonel of such Regiment, 12 00

To a Major of such Regiment, - - - - 10 00

For a Captain of 59 men, including officers, 6 00

For two Lieutenants for such Company, each 4 00

For one Ensign for such Company, - - - 3 00

For one Adjutant for such Regiment, - - 5 10

For a Quarter-Master for such Regiment, - 3 00

For one Chaplain lor such Regiment, - - 6 00

For one Chimrgeon for such Regiment, - 7 10

For two Chirur^eon's Mates, each - - - 4 00

For each Sergeant, -------- 2 08

For each Corporal, -------- 2 04

For each Drummer, ------- 2 04

For each Filer, ^ - - 2 04

For each Private Soldier, ------ 2 00

Resolved, That besides the above, a Coat for a uniform
be given to each of the Non-commissioned Officers and
Privates, as soon as the state of the Province will admit of
it ; also,

Resolved, That the Selectmen of the several Towns
and Districts within this Colony be desired to furnish the
Soldiers, who shall enlist from their respective Towns and
Districts, with good and sufficient Blankets, and render
their accounts to the Committee of Supplies, who are
hereby directed to draw on the Colony Treasurer for pay-
ment of the same.

Adjourned to eight o'clock to-morrow morning, in this
place.

Watertown, Monday, April 24, 1775.

Met according to adjournment.

The Reverend Mr. Murray was appointed President
pro tempore, and lchabod Goodwin, Secretary pro tempore.
Jonas Dix, Esquire, was appointed Monitor.

Ordered, That Mr. Gerry give the Express going to
the press, his orders for the Enlisting Papers.

Ordered, That the Enlisting Papers going to the press
be authenticated by the Secretary pro tempore.

Resolved, That six hundred of these Papers be printed,
and that the Congress Express wait for two hundred of
them.

Resolved, That the Committee of Safety or Committee
of Supplies be empowered to impress Horses or Teams,
and direct the owners of them to send their accounts to the
Committee of Supplies; also, to empower other persons
to impress on special occasions.

Resolved, That the Establishment of the Army be print-
ed in Handbills, and that a copy of them be sent by the
Express who is going for the Enlisting Papers; and that
three hundred of them be printed immediately.

Moved, That a Member from each County be appointed
to attend the Committee of Safety, and let them know the
names of the Officers in said Counties, belonging to the
Minute-Men, and such as are most suitable for Officers in
the Army now raking.

Ordered, That Colonel Lincoln be appointed for the
County of Suffolk ;

Major Fuller for the County of Essex ;

Colonel Prescott for the County of Middlesex ;

Colonel Pomeroy for the County of Hampshire ;

Nathaniel dishing, Esq., for the County of Plymouth ;

"67

MASSACHUSETTS PROVINCIAL CONGRESS, APRIL, 1775.

768

Daniel Davis, Esq., for the County of Barnstable :
I olonel Dagget for the County of Hrisol:
bhabod Goodwin, Esq., for the County of York;

Joseph Miii/lii. w, Esq., for the County of Dukes County;

Major Bigelow for tin; County of Worcester;

Mr. Samuel Freeman for the County of Cumberland ;

Reverend Mr. John Murray for the County of Lincoln ;

Colonel John Patterson for the County of Berkshire; ami

Stephen Jlussey, Esq., for the County of Nantucket .

Ordered, That each of these Members attend the ser-
vice according to their appointment, or write to the Com-
mittee.

Ordered, That Major JFWfer, of M'uUJkton, give a list
of the names of these Members to the Committee of
Safety.

Resolved, That when this Congress do adjourn, they
adjourn to three o'clock this afternoon, and the Members
are enjoined to attend punctually at that time.

Adjourned accordingly to three o'clock, P. M.

Afternoon, April 24, 1775.

Letters from Hartford, directed to the President of this
Congress, laid on the table, ordered to be read, and, after
reading them, were ordered to be immediately forwarded to
the Committee of Safety, then sitting at Cambridge.

Moved, That a Committee be now appointed to exam-
ine the Records, and report such matters contained therein
as may be made publick, and such as shall remain secret at
present.

Ordered, That Major Brooks, Deacon Fisher, and Mr.
Freeman, be a Committee for that purpose.

Congress adjourned to eight o'clock, next morning, at
this place.

Tuesday, April 25, 1775, 8 o'clock, A. M.

Congress met pursuant to adjournment.

Ordered, That the Treasurer be inquired of respecting
the state of the Treasury.

Answered by said Treasurer in a general way, that for
the year 1773, it was supposed that about Twenty Thou-
sand Pounds was due, and that he had received about Five
Thousand Pounds.

Moved, That a Committee be appointed to bring in a
Resolve how we may ascertain the number of Towns and
Districts which are delinquent. Passed in the negative.

Moved for a reconsideration, and passed negatively.

The Committee appointed to bring in a Report of what
they thought might be made publick of the Resolves, re-
ported, that nothing relative to our proceedings with the
Indian Nations be known, and that other matters be left
at discretion with each Member.

Moved, That this matter subside for the present.

Leave of absence is granted J erathmicl Bowers, Esquire,
to return home.

Adjourned to three o'clock, afternoon.

Afternoon.

The Letter from Haverhill committed.

Ordered, That Mr. Gill, Colonel Gerrish, and Major
Fuller, of Middleton, be a Committee for that purpose,
and to sit forthwith.

Moved, by the Committee of Safety, for two gentlemen
as Engineers, and an Establishment for them.

Ordered, That Mr. Gill, Jonas Dix, Esq., and Henry
Gardner, Esq., be a Committee for that purpose to bring
in a Resolve.

Ordered, That a Resolve be submitted by the Commit-
tee of Safety, to reduce the Regiments.

Moved, That the Companies in each Regiment be re-
duced from one hundred men each, to fifty-nine men,
including three officers — one Captain and two Subalterns ;
and passed unanimously in the affirmative.

Moved, That each Regiment be reduced to ten of these
Companies; and passed in the affirmative.

Ordered, That Colonel Orne, Colonel Palmer, and
Henry Gardner, Esq., be a Committee for regulating the
Regiments of the Army, and to sit forthwith.

A Letter from Salem was read, setting forth the expe-
diency of the Depositions we are now taking being for-
warded as fast as possible. The same was ordered to be

sent to the Committee for that purpose, at Lexington, im-
mediately.

Ordered, That the Memorial from Metrblehcad , with
the debate thereon, subside for the present.

The Committee appointed to take into consideration the
letters from Messrs. Nathaniel P. Sargeant, Jr., Esq., and
Jonathan Webster, reported, That the Congress write to
the Town of Haverhill, acquaint them of the Letters re-
ceived from said Sargeant and Websti r, and let them know
the important business of Congress requires the wisdom of
the whole Province ; and therefore desire, that in case
those gentlemen cannot attend, they would elect other
member or members to attend in their room ; and that the
Letter be directed to the Town Clerk.

In Provincial Congress, Watertown. (
April 25, 1775. \

Sir : The Congress have this day received a Letter from
Nathaniel Peaslee Sargeant and Jonathan Webster, Esqrs.,
acquainting them that the late dreadful fire in Haverhill.
together with some publick disturbances in said Town,
make it necessary they should be at home at this time.
The Congress apprehend, that the important business of
the Colonies requires that every Town should now be re-
presented ; therefore desire, that if, in case neither said
Nathaniel P. Sargeant or Jonathan Webster, Esqrs., can
attend, that the Town would elect one or more mem-
bers to attend in their room, that the wisdom of the whole
Colony may be collected at our hour of need.

Adjourned to eight o'clock next day.

AVcdncsday, April 26, 1775, 8 o'clock, A. M.

Met according to adjournment.

Ordered, That Mr. President, Doctor Taylor, Mr.
Freeman, Henry Gardner, Esq., and Colonel Stone, be a
Committee to draught a Letter to our Agent in Great
Britain.

Ordered, That William Burbeck be and he is hereby
appointed an Engineer of the Forces now raising in this
Colony for the defence of the rights and liberties of the
American Continent ; and that there be paid to the said
William Burbeck, out of the publick Treasury of this Col-
ony, during his continuance in that service, at the rate of
one hundred and fifty Pounds, law-Ail money, per annum.
And it is further Resolved, That from and after the time
when the said Troops shall be disbanded, during the life of
the said Burbeck, there be paid to him, out of the Treasu-
ry, the sum of ninety-seven Pounds six Shillings and
eight Pence, lawful money, annually.

Ordered, That Colonel Gerrish, Deacon Fisher, Col-
onel Orne, Mr. Batchelder, and Captain Brown, be a Com-
mittee to take into consideration the Letter laid on the
table by the Committee of Safety, from James Sullivan.
Esq., and the Committee to sit forthwith.

Ordered, That the Letter drawn by the Committee, to
send to Doctor Franklin, as Agent, be copied and authen-
ticated by the President pro tempore.

The Depositions taken by the Committee for that pur-
pose, laid on the table, and ordered to be read.

Ordered, That the Committee make Duplicates of the
same, and Captain Stone, Jonas Dix, Esq., Colonel Tyng,
Colonel Dvnght, Captain Whittemore, Major Fuller, and
Mr. Freeman, assist as scribes in that business.

Adjourned to three o'clock.

Afternoon.

Mel according to adjournment.

Ordered, That the Letters and Papers just now re-
ceived from Rhode-Island, by Doctor Perkins, be sent to
the Committee of Safety now sitting in Cambridge, by him.
and that he have leave to go home for a few days.

Resolved, That Richard Gridley, Esquire, be and he
hereby is appointed Chief Engineer of the Forces now-
raising in this Colony for the defence of the rights and lib-
erties of the American Continent ; and that there be paid
to the said Richard Gridley, out of the publick Treasury
of this Colony, during his continuance in that service, at
the rate of one hundred and seventy Pounds, lawful
money, per annum. And it is further Resolved, That
from and after the time when the said Forces shall be dis-

769

MASSACHUSETTS PROVINCIAL CONGRESS, APRIL, 1775.

770

banded, during the life of the said Gridley, there be paid
to him out of the said Treasury, the sum of one hundred
and twenty-three Pounds, lawful money, per annum.

Ordered, That the duplicates lay on the table till the
Narrative comes in.

Ordered, That Mr. Freeman, Doctor Taylor, Deacon
Cheever, Doctor Baylies, and Colonel Farley, be a Com-
mittee to consider the state of the eastern parts of this
Province at large in regard to supplying them with Am-
munition, and to sit forthwith.

The Committee made the following Report, which was
accepted :

In Provincial Congress, Watertown, )
April 26, 1775. J

Whereas, representation has been made to this Congress,
that several of the Towns in the eastern parts of the Col-
ony are deficient in such supply of ammunition, as is neces-
sary they should, at this day, be furnished with, for the
safety and defence of the Colony in general, and that part
of it in particular ; therefore,

Resolved, That the Committee of Supplies be, and they
are hereby directed, forthwith to take some effectual mea-
sures to procure such a quantity of Powder and Ball as will
appear to them to be necessary for the use of this Colony,
under the present alarming situation of our publick affairs ;
and, in particular, that they immediately send to the Colo-
nies of Connecticut and Rhode-Island for so much Powder
as they shall think necessary, and when procured, to de-
liver so much of it to the order of the Selectmen of such
deficient Towns, and in such quantities, as they may think
will be proportional to the exigencies of each Town respec-
tively, and to the safety and defence of the Colony in
general; such Towns to pay for the supplies which they
may receive of said Committee, according to the nett ex-
pense of procuring the same.

Ordered, That Colonel Cutis, lchabod Goodwin, and
Deacon Fisher, be appointed to proportion the Powder that
is recommended to be sold to the Towns of York, Welles,
Biddeford, Boothbay, and Sandford, and to sit forthwith.

The Committee presented the following Report, which
was accepted :

Whereas, the Towns of York, Welles, Boothbay, and
Biddeford, have applied to this Congress, setting forth the
dangerous situation they are in, being seaports, and there-
by exposed to the ravages of the enemy, although but a
small force should be sent to attack them by sea ; and like-
wise showing that they have not ammunition sufficient
wherewith to make defence, should they be thus attacked ;
and considering them, as they ought to be, part of the whole,
and should they suffer, that the whole must be affected :
therefore,

Resolved, That it be, and it hereby is recommended to
the Selectmen of the Towns of Marblehead, Salem, and
Newburyport, that they forthwith sell, out of their Town
stock, four half barrels of Powder each, to said Towns of
York, Welles, Biddeford, and Boothbay, to put the inhabi-
tants thereof in some tolerable state of defence ; and should
the Towns of Marblehead, Salem, and Newburyport, be
under the necessity of having the quantities which they
have delivered to the said Towns of York, Welles, Booth-
bay, and Biddeford, replaced, in that case the Congress
will give orders for the same as soon as may be. The Pow-
der to be apportioned according to the number of inhabi-
tants in the said Towns, as also to Sandford, said Town
having made application for supplies of the same kind.

Ordered, That the Rev. James Murray, Major Fuller,
and Jonas Dix, Esq., be a Committee to return the thanks
of this Congress to the Reverend Ministers who have gen-
erously offered to supply the Army as Chaplains, each a
month in rotation.

Ordered, That at three o'clock to-morrow, this Congress
will take into consideration some effectual method of sup-
plying the Treasury.

Ordered, That Deacon How have leave to return home,
but is to return to his duty immediately.

Ordered, That the copies of the Order to the Honour-
able Richard Derby, Esq., for fitting out his Vessel for a
Packet, be taken and authenticated by the President pro
tempore.

Ordered, That the Honourable Richard Derby, Esqr's,

Fourth Series. — Vol. ii. 49

Orders to the Treasury, be also authenticated by the Pre-
sident pro tempore.

Ordered, That the Committee of Supplies, directed to
draught the Letter to our Agent in Great Britain, be re-
quested to send the same with the papers now preparing
for that purpose.

Ordered, That Doctor Holten, Doctor Baylies, Captain
Whittemore, Colonel D wight, and Mr. Kollock, be a Com-
mittee to take the recommendation of the Committee of
Safety into consideration, with respect to the Army now
forming.

Moved, That when this Congress do adjourn, that they
adjourn to seven o'clock to-morrow morning.

Adjourned accordingly.

Thursday, April 27, 1775, >
Seven o'clock, A. M. \
Met pursuant to adjournment.

Ordered, That Captain Goodman inquire of the Com-
mittee of Safety, whether any provision is made for a Post
or Posts, to ride from the Army to Worcester, agreeably to
a request from the Selectmen of that Town ; and also to
procure a Writ for calling a General Assembly in May next,
issued from General Gage for that purpose.

Ordered, That the Secretary pro tempore take Extracts
from the Minutes of the Resolves of this Congress, and
authenticate the same, and deliver them to the men now
in waiting from York and Welles, for the purpose of obtain-
ing some Powder.

Ordered, That Mr. Gerry have leave to bring in a
Resolve, with regard to the seaports in the County of
Essex.

Whereupon Mr. Gerry offered the following :

Whereas, hostilities have been commenced in this Colony
by Great Britain, and the sword may remain unsheathed
for a considerable time :

Resolved, That it be, and it hereby is earnestly recom-
mended to the Committees of the seaport Towns in the
County of Essex, that they use their utmost endeavours to
have all the effects of the inhabitants of their respective
Towns removed as soon as possible; that the Congress
highly approves of the conduct of said Towns, in wearing
a pacifick appearance, until their effects shall be secured ;
that the Congress consider it as absolutely necessary for
said inhabitants to be in readiness to go into the country on
the shortest notice, and to avoid mixing with our enemies,
as thereby their own lives will ever be in imminent danger,
when the Colony and the Continent shall attack such ene-
mies. And it is also recommended to them that their ap-
plication to Congress for advice, and this Resolve in conse-
quence thereof, be kept a secret, that their effects may be
more easily removed.

Ordered, That three o'clock next Tuesday be assigned
to take up the matter in the Resolve brought in by Mr.
Gerry.

Ordered, That Mr. President, Col. Orne, Doctor Tay-
lor, Major Fuller, of Middleton, and Captain Goodman,
be a Committee to confer with the Officers of the Army
relative to the reduction of their pay.

Colonel Dwight was appointed to wait on the Committee
of Safety, and acquaint them with the names of the Officers
in the Regiments of Minute-Men in Worcester County.

Mr. Hale appointed to the same business, in the County
of Hampshire.

Adjourned to three o'clock, P. M.

Afternoon.

Met according to adjournment.

Ordered, That Captain Kingsbury, Doctor Holten, and
Deacon Stone, be appointed to inquire and endeavour to
get an exact account of the men killed, and wounded, and
murdered, in the late scene, on the nineteenth instant.

The Order of the Day was moved for, to take up the
matter of supplying the Treasury.

Ordered, That a Committee be appointed for that pur-
pose, to consist of five, and to be chosen by written votes.

Ordered, That two be added to this Committee.

Ordered, That Doctor Holten, Mr. Bullen, and Captain
Batchelder, be appointed to sort and count the votes.

Ordered, That nine o'clock be assigned for that purpose.

Ordered, That Mr. Patridge, Captain Greenleaf and

771

MASSACHUSETTS PROVINCIAL CONGRESS, APRIL, 1775.

772

Doctor Baker, be appointed to consider the Petition from
Gorham, and to sit forthwith.

Ordered, That Captain II "hitcmorc, Mr. Freeman, and
Doctor Baylies, assist as scribes the Committees, in taking
fair copies of the Depositions in order for the Press, and to
sit forthwith.

Ordered, That Jonas Dix, Esq., William Stickney, Esq.,
and Deacon Stone, be appointed to take true copies of the
Depositions, and have them signed by the Deponents, and
authenticated by the Justices and Notary Publick.

Ordered, That Mr. Hubbarl have leave to go home a
few dajs.

Adjourned to nine o'clock to-morrow morning.

Friday, April 28, 1775.

Met conformably to adjournment.

Ordered, That Mr. President, Col. Gerrish, Mr. Gerry,
Doctor Holten, and Mr. Gill, be appointed to confer with
the gentlemen from New- Hampshire, and are desired to
lay the Letters just received from New- York, dated April
nineteenth, before them.

Ordered, (at the desire of the Secretary pro tempore,)
that ho be excused from that service, after another is ap-
pointed in that place.

Accordingly Mr. Samuel Freeman was appointed to that
office, pro tempore.

In Provincial Congress, Watertown, )
April 28, 1775. \

Resolved, That the Committee appointed to confer with
the Committee who this day arrived here from the Colony
of New-Hampshire, have leave to report to this Congress a
draught of a Letter, which they have prepared as an answer
to one received from the Convention of the said Colony
of New-Hampshire, dated twenty-sixth instant.

The said draught was accordingly reported, read, and
unanimously accepted, and ordered to be authenticated by
the President, and delivered to Colonel Nathaniel Folsom,
Colonel Josiah Bartlett, and Major Samuel Hobart, Esq.,
the Committee from thesaid Convention of New-Hampshire,
and is as follows, viz :

" Gentlemen : It is with pleasure we have received
your letter, above mentioned, and by a Committee of this
Congress, have had a conference with your respectable
Committee.

" We find the fullest conviction in the minds of the in-
habitants of our sister Colonies, as well as of this, that by
their immediate and most vigorous exertions, there is the
greatest prospect of establishing their liberties, and saving
their Country, and that, without such exertions, all must be
lost.

" It is the opinion of this Congress, as already communi-
cated, that a powerful Army on our side must at once cut
out such a work for a tyrannical Administration, as, under
the great opposition which they meet with in England, they
cannot accomplish, and that their system of despotism must
soon be shaken to the foundation. But should they still
pursue their sanguinary measures, that the Colonies will
then be able to make a successful stand.

" We have the utmost confidence in your patriotick Col-
ony, whose inhabitants have signalized themselves, in join-
ing their brethren in this, and hope to see New-Hampshire,
and every other Government which has been exposed to
the corruption of a British Ministry, soon placed upon such
a footing as will be best calculated to promote the true inte-
rest of the same, and to prevent, in future, such unhappy
disputes as have taken place with the mother Country.

'•' We have just received an agreeable account of the con-
duct of our brethren in New^York, and have delivered a
copy of the letter to your Committee.

" We sincerely thank you for your measures, taken in
Convention at Exeter, and are fully persuaded that the
Congress of your Colony, which is to meet on the seven-
teenth of May, will take such effectual steps as the present
exigencies of publick affairs require, and the Continent of
America must necessarily approve."

Ordered, That the Secretary authenticate a copy of a Let-
ter this day received from Governour Hopkins, of Rhode-
Island, and deliver the same to the above mentioned Com-
mittee from New- Hampshire.

Ordered, That Mr. Dickerson, Doctor Holten, and Col-
onel Gerrish, be a Committee to wait upon the Committee

from New- Hampshire to the Committee of Safety of this
Colony, now sitting at Cambridge, to consult with them
respecting the .V w-Hampthire forces, now at Cambridge.

Ordered, That the President, Mr. Gerry, and Mr. Gard-
ner, he a Committee to take into consideration a Letter this
day received from the Honourable Stephen Hopkins, Esq..
dated Providence, April 27, 1775.

Ordered, That Mr. Crane, Mr. Grout, and Mr. Fisher.
be a Committee to take into consideration the expedien-
cy of establishing Post-Riders between the Massachustits
Forces and the Town of Worcester.

Ordered, That Mr. Crane, Mr. Grout, and Mr. Fisher.
be a Committee to take into consideration the propriety of
recommending to the several Towns and Districts in this
Colony, that they take no notice of the Precepts lately
issued by General Gage, for calling a General Assembly.

Ordered, That Major Fuller, of Neivton, Mr. Goodman,
Doctor Taylor, Doctor Baylies, and Major Brooks, be a
Committee to prepare a form of a Commission for the
several Officers of the Army now forming in this Province.

Adjourned to three o'clock this afternoon.

Afternoon.

Ordered, That Mr. Fisher, Doctor Taylor, and Benja-
min Aiken, Esq., be a Committee to prepare a draught of
Rules and Regulations, to be in future observed by the
several Members of this Congress.

The Committee appointed in the forenoon, to take into
consideration a Letter received from the Honourable Ste-
phen Hojikins, Esq., reported.

The Report was accepted, and ordered to lie on the
table, for the present.

Ordered, That the Committee appointed to introduce
the Honourable Delegates from the Convention at Exeter,
in New- Hampshire, to the Committee of Safety, apply to
said Committee for an authentick account of what transac-
tions have certainly taken place with respect to the libera-
tion of our friends in Boston, and report as soon as may be.

Ordered, That Colonel Dexter, Major Brooks, Doctor
Taylor, Captain Batchelder, and Captain Greenhaf, be a
Committee to bring in a Resolve, empowering the Com-
mittee of Supplies to procure such Provisions, Military
Stores, and other Stores, as they shall judge necessary for
the Army now forming in this Colony, during its establish-
ment.

It was Moved, That the sense of this Congress be taken,
whether it would be expedient to reduce the Pay of the
Field-Officers of the Army. After much debate, the ques-
tion was put, and it passed in the affirmative, by a large
majority; whereupon it was determined, that the Pay of
the Chief Colonel be reduced from fifteen Pounds to twelve
Pounds, and that the Lieutenant-Colonels and Majors be
reduced in the same proportion.

Ordered, That Major Fuller, of Newton, Colonel Dex-
ter, and Captain Little, be a Committee to bring in a Re-
solve for that purpose.

Adjourned to eight o'clock to-morrow morning.

Saturday, April 29, 1775.

The Committee appointed to wait on the New-Hamp-
shire Committee to the Committee of Safety at Cambridge,
and to make inquiry respecting the liberation of the in-
habitants of Boston, reported, that they had attended that
business, and had brought from the Committee of Safety a
number of papers, which contain the proceedings of the
Town of Boston with General Gage, in respect to moving
the inhabitants and their effects.

And that the Committee of Safety, having taken the
substance of them into consideration, desired they might
be returned to them, and that the Congress would not pass
any resolve respecting them until they had come to some
resolve concerning them ; therefore,

Ordered, That the subject-matter of said Papers be re-
ferred to the consideration of the said Committee of Safety ;
they to make report to this Congress as soon as may be.

On a motion made, Ordered, That the day appointed
for the first meeting of the County Committees, which
was the first Wednesday in May next, be postponed to the
fourth Wednesday in May next.

The Committee appointed to prepare a draught of Rules
and Regulations to be observed by this Congress, reported ;

773

MASSACHUSETTS PROVINCIAL CONGRESS, APRIL, 1775.

774

tlie Rules were read, and severally accepted, and are as
follow, viz :

" 1 . No Member shall speak out of his place, nor
without standing up, and applying to the President for
leave, and shall sit down as soon as he is done speaking.

" 2. No Member, speaking by leave of the President,
shall be interrupted by another, but by rising up to speak
to order.

" 3. No Member shall speak more than twice to one
question, without first obtaining leave of Congress, nor more
than once, until others have spoken that shall desire it.

" 4. Whenever any Member shall have liberty from the
President to make a motion, and such motion shall be
seconded by another, the same shall be received and con-
sidered by the Congress, and not otherwise.

"5. No Member shall declare or question whether it
be a Vote or not.

" 6. No grant for Money, or other thing, shall be made,
unless there be a time before assigned for that purpose.

" 7. No Vote shall be reconsidered when a less number
is present in Congress than there was when it passed.

" 8. No Member shall nominate more than one person
for a Committee, provided the person so nominated be
chosen.

" 9. No Member shall be obliged to be upon more than
two Committees at a time, nor Chairman of more than one.

:< 10. That no Member be permitted to stand up, to the
interruption of another, while such other Member is speak-
ing."

Ordered, That the Monitors of this Congress be, and
they are hereby directed to see that the foregoing Rules
are observed by the several Members of this Congress.

Ordered, That the Letter and Resolve, prepared to be
sent to the Honourable Stephen Hopkins, Esq., of Rhode-
hland, be recommitted for a suitable addition, and the
Committee to sit forthwith.

Ordered, The Hon. Mr. Dexter be a Committee to bring
in a Resolve, expressive of the Vote of this Congress for
altering the first meeting of the County Committees.

The Committee appointed to bring in a Resolve, em-
powering the Committee of Supplies to procure Provisions
and Military Stores, reported ; the Report was read and
accepted, and is as follows :

" In Provincial Congress, Watertown, }
" April 29, 1775. \

•' Resolved, That the Committee of Supplies be, and
they hereby are empowered to purchase every kind of
Military Stores, Provisions, and all other supplies which
they shall judge necessary for the use of the Forces of
this Colony, during the establishment of an Army for its
defence, or until it shall be otherwise ordered, by this or
some future Congress, or House of Representatives, on
the credit of the Colony, and draw for suitable sums from
the Treasury for payment of the same. Also to deposite
the said Stores in such places as they, in consultation with
tlie Generals of the Colony, shall judge proper: and to
deliver such and so many of said Stores to the Commis-
sary-General, from time to time, as he shall judge needful
to supply the Army. Likewise, said Committee of Sup-
plies are hereby empowered to employ such and so many
Assistants as they shall judge necessary, to be paid as afore-
said ; said Committee of Supplies to be accountable, when
called upon, for their doings to this, or some future Con-
gress, or House of Representatives of this Colony."

The Committee appointed to prepare an addition to a
Letter to the Honourable Stephen Hopkins, Esquire, re-
ported ; which addition was read and accepted.

Adjourned to three o'clock, P. M.

Afternoon.

The Committee appointed to bring in a Resolve, with
respect to reducing the Pay of the Field-Officers, reported
the following ; which was read and accepted, and ordered
to be signed by the Secretary, and transmitted to the Com-
mittee of Safety :

" In Provincial Congress, Watertown, )
"April 29, 1775. \

" Whereas, the reducing of the several Regiments to
be raised in the Provincial service, from one thousand men
in a Regiment to five hundred and ninety, makes the ser-

vice of the said Field-Officers of said Regiments less bur-
densome : therefore,

" Resolved, That the Pay of said Field-Officers be re-
duced one-fifth part from the first establishment, and that
said Field-Officers' pay in said service of this Province to
the last day of December next, unless dismissed before,
shall be as follows, viz : A Colonel's pay twelve Pounds per
month ; a Lieut. Colonel's pay nine Pounds twelve Shil-
lings per month ; a Major's pay eight Pounds per month."

Ordered, That Mr. Rawson, Doctor Dunsmore, and
Colonel Davis, be a Committee to wait on the Committee
of Safety, now sitting at Cambridge, to inform them of the
deep concern this Congress feel on account of the state
and situation of the Cannon, and desire information re-
specting the disposition of them, and that this Committee
forthwith proceed on this business.

Resolved, That this Congress will now proceed to choose
a Committee to consider some method of supplying the
Treasury.

Ordered, That Esquire Greenleaf, and Mr. Hall, (in
the room of Doctor Holten and Mr. Ratchelder,) be of
the Committee to count and sort the votes.
The absent Members ordered to be called in.
The Honourable Mr. Dexter, who was appointed to
bring in a Resolve expressive of the Vote of this Congress
for altering the first meeting of the County Committees,
reported ; which Report being read and amended, was
accepted, and is as follows :

" Whereas, this Congress, on the twelfth day of this in-
stant, April, appointed a Committee for each County, to
receive from the Committees of Correspondence in such
Counties a state of the conduct of the Towns and Dis-
tricts with respect to their having executed the Continen-
tal and Provincial measures, for the preservation of this
Country from slavery : And whereas the distressed cir-
cumstances of the Colony may probably render it very
inconvenient that so great a number of Members should be
absent from the Congress on the first Wednesday of May
next, the day mentioned for their first meeting :

" Therefore, Resolved, That the first meeting of said
Committees be postponed to the fourth Wednesday in said
month, and it is recommended to the several Committees
of Correspondence to render a true state of the conduct
of their respective Towns and Districts, on the said fourth
Wednesday of May accordingly, and especially with re-
spect to their outstanding Province Rates ; any thing con-
tained in the former Resolve of this Congress, differing
herefrom, notwithstanding."

Ordered, That the several County Committees be, and
they hereby are, directed to inform the Committees of
Correspondence of the several Counties of the purport of
the foregoing Resolve.

Ordered, That the Secretary be, and he hereby is,
directed to notify the Chairman of each of the said County
Committees of the purport of the said Resolve.

The Committee appointed to count and sort the votes
for a Committee to consider on some method for supplying
the Treasury, reported that the following gentlemen were
chosen, viz :

The Reverend Mr. Murray, Colonel Dexter, Colonel
Gerrish, Mr. Gill, Mr. Gerry, Captain Stone, and Cap-
tain Greenleaf.

On a motion made by the Reverend Mr. Murray that
he might be excused from serving on the above Commit-
tee, and having offered his reasons therefor, the question
was put, whether he be excused, agreeably to his request,
from serving on said Committee ; and it passed in the
affirmative.

The Congress then made choice of Doctor Taylor to
serve on said Committee, in the room of Mr. Murray, who
hath been excused.

In Provincial Congress, April 29, 1775.

The President having received a Letter from Messrs. Nich-
olas Brown and Joseph Rrown, dated Providence, April
27, 1775, desiring that this Congress would observe secrecy
in respect to the capture of their brother, John Brown, at
Newpoi-t, on the 26th instant : And also another from the
Honourable Stephen Hopkins. Esquire, dated Providence,
April 27th, 1775, presented the same to this Congress;
which being read,

775

MASSACHUSETTS PROVINCIAL CONGRESS, MAY, 1775.

776

Ordered, That Mr. Gerry, Colonel Gerrisk, and Doc-
tor Taylor, be, and they hereby are appointed a Com-
mittee to confer with the abovesaid Joseph Brown, who
now waits the further advice of this Congress.

Ordered, That said Committee be, and they are here-
by authorized to consider what is proper to be done, and
make report forthwith.

The President likewise received a Letter from Worces-
ter, enclosing one from New- York, dated April 24, 1775,
which gave information of the arrival of a Packet them,
with despatches for General Gage, and recommended that
care be taken to intercept the same.

Ordered, That Colonel Grout be directed to carry the
Letter, last mentioned, to the Committee of Safety, now
sitting at Cambridge.

Adjourned till to-morrow morning, seven o'clock.

Sunday, April 30, 1775.
The Committee appointed yesterday to wait on the
Committee of Safety, reported that they had attended the
business to which they were appointed, and brought from
said Committee the following account :

" In Committee of Safety, Cambridge, }
"April 29, 1775. £

" Agreeably to the order of the Provincial Congress,
this Committee have inquired into the state and situation
of the Cannon and Ordnance Stores, with the provision
made for the Companies of Artillery, and beg leave to
report as follows, viz :

" In Cambridge, six three-pounders complete, with am-
munition, and one six-pounder.

" In Watertown, sixteen pieces of artillery, of different
sizes. The said six-pounder and sixteen pieces will be
taken out of the way, and the first mentioned six pieces
will be used in a proper way of defence.

" Captain Foster is appointed to command one of the
Companies of Artillery, and ordered to enlist said Com-
pany.

" Captain William JLee, of Marblehead, has been sent
for to take the command of another, and several other
persons have been sent for to take the command of other
Companies. Joseph Warren, Chairman."

Ordered, That Colonel Grout be directed to request of
the Committee of Safety a Report respecting the inhabi-
tants of Boston.

A motion was made for an addition to the Committee of
Safety, and after some debate, the matter was ordered to
subside.

The Congress then adjourned to twelve o'clock this day.

The Congress met at twelve o'clock, and adjourned to
half after one.

Congress met pursuant to adjournment, and adjourned
to half after three.

At which time the Congress met again.

Ordered, That another express be immediately sent to
the Committee of Safety to procure their result with re-
spect to moving out the inhabitants of Boston.

Ordered, That Colonel Mosely be directed to repair
forthwith to Cambridge, on this errand.

The President was then directed to write a short Letter
to said Committee on this important purpose. The Letter
is as follows :

" In Provincial Congress, April 30, 1775.

" Sir : I am directed to inform you, that it is with re-
gret this Congress find themselves obliged to send to the
Committee of Safety a third messenger, to request their
immediate Report on the subject of the removal of the
poor inhabitants of Boston.

"To wait for that Report the Congress have suspended
all proceedings on that matter, and sat in almost impatient
expectation, by several adjournments, since seven o'clock
this morning. I am obliged to request your answer by
this express, without loss of time, that the Congress may
then see what it is their duty to conclude on. I have the
honour to be, with great respect, Sir, your most obedient
humble servant, John Murray.

" To Joseph Warren, Esquire, Chairman of the Committee

of Safety."

Ordered, That Mr. Dix, Doctor Taylor, and Mr. Bul-
len, be a Committee to inquire into the conduct of the
several Towns relative to the prisoners of war.

Ordered, That the Resolve, relative to altering the time
of meeting of the County Committees, be? printed in the
Salem Gazette, and in the Massachusetts Spy.

A Committee from the Committee of Safety offered to
this Congress a Resolve respecting the liberation of the
inhabitants of Boston, which being read, and amended, was
accepted, and is as follows:

" In Provincial Congress, Watertown, /
April 30, 1775. \

" Whereas, an agreement has been made between Gen-
eral Gitife and the inhabitants of the Town of Boston, for
the removal of the persons and effects of such of the inha-
bitants of the Town of Boston as may be so disposed, ex-
cepting their fire-arms and ammunition, into the country :

" Resolved, That any of the inhabitants of this Colony,
who may incline to go into the Town of Boston, with their
effects, fire-arms and ammunition excepted, have toleration
for that purpose, and that they be protected from any injurs
and insult whatsoever, in their removal to Boston, and that
this Resolve be immediately published."

" P. S. Officers appointed for giving permits for the above
purpose are, one at the sign of the Sun, at Charlestown,
and another at the house of Mr. John Greaton, Jun., at
Roxbury."

Ordered, That attested copies of the foregoing Resolve
be forthwith posted up at Roxbury, Charlestoivn, and Cam-
bridge.

Resolved, That the Resolution of Congress, relative to
the removal of the inhabitants of Boston, be authentica-
ted, and sent to the Selectmen of Boston, immediately
to be communicated to General Gage, and also be pub-
lished in the Worcester and Salem Papers.

Ordered, That Dr. Taylor, Mr. Bailey, Mr. Lothrop,
Mr. Holmes, and Colonel Farley, be a Committee to consi-
der what steps are necessary to be taken, for the assisting
the poor of Boston in moving out with their effects, to
bring in a Resolve for that purpose, and to set forthwith.

Adjourned till to-morrow morning, seven o'clock.

Monday, May 1, 1775.

The Committee who were appointed to consider what
steps are necessary to be taken with respect to assisting
the poor of Boston in moving out with their effects, re-
ported ; the Report was recommitted for amendment, and
Captain Smith, of Granby, Colonel Mosely, Captain Good-
ridge, and Major Smith, were added to the Committee.

Ordered, That Mr. Patridge, Doctor Baylies and Mr.
Greenleaf, be a Committee to inspect the Papers of this
Congress, and consider what would be proper to furnish
the Printer with for publication, and make report.

The Committee appointed to inspect the Papers of the
Congress, reported several extracts of Letters for publica-
tion, which are ordered to be delivered to Mr. Hall, of
Salem, for that purpose.

On a motion made, that the sense of the Congress be
taken on this question, viz : Whether the Commissions to
be given for the Officers of the Army, now forming in this
Colony, shall be signed by the President of the Congress :
the question was put, and it passed in the affirmative.

Congress then adjourned to three o'clock, this afternoon.

Afternoon.

A Letter brought from Northampton, by express, from
Major Hawley, respecting the bearer of despatches from
General Gage, was read.

On which, Ordered, That Colonel Gerrish, Esquire
Gardner and Major Gooding, be a Committee to take the
same into consideration, and report.

The Committee appointed to take into consideration the
Letter from Major Hawley, reported, that the most likely
way of detecting the bearer of despatches for Governour
Gage, was, to forward the said Letter by Major Gooding,
to the Committee of Safety at Cambridge, that they may
take order thereon.

Which Report was accepted, and the said Letter, to-
gether with two anonymous Letters from London, were
ordered to be sent to the said Committee of Safety.

777

MASSACHUSETTS PROVINCIAL CONGRESS, MAY, 1775.

778

Moved, That William Read, Esq., be admitted in this
House, to represent to this Congress the sufferings he met
with on the 19th April last, at Lexington.

The question being put, after debate had thereon, it
passed in the negative.

Ordered, That Captain Bragdon, Captain Dix, and
Mr. Gill, be a Committee to confer with the above named
Esquire Read, and to make report of their conference.

Resolved, That Mr. Gerry have leave to bring in an
order of this House, for leave to the several Members of
this Congress to pass the Guards of the Colony Army
without molestation.

Mr. Gerry accordingly brought in an order for this pur-
pose, and after debates had thereon, it was ordered to be
recommitted.

The Committee appointed to prepare a form of a Com-
mission for the Colony Officers, reported.

The form which they reported was read, and accepted,
and is as follows :

"The Congress of the Colony of the Massachusetts-Bay.

"To Greeting :

'• We, reposing especial trust and confidence in your cour-
age and good conduct, do, by these presents, constitute

and appoint you, the said to be of

the Regiment of foot raised by the Congress

aforesaid, for the defence of said Colony. You are, there-
fore, carefully and diligently to discharge the duty of a

in leading, ordering and exercising the said

in arms, both inferiour officers and soldiers,

and to keep them in good order and discipline; and they

are hereby commanded to obey you as their ,

and you are yourself to observe, and follow, such orders
and instructions as you shall, from time to time, receive
from the General and Commander-in-Chief of the Forces
raised in the Colony aforesaid for the defence of the same,
or any other your superiour officers, according to military
rules and discipline in war, in pursuance of the trust reposed
in you. By order of the Congress:

" President pro tern.

"...., the .... of .... A. D. 1775.
" Secretary pro tern."

Ordered, That a fair copy of the foregoing form of a
Commission be taken, and transmitted to the press ; and
that one thousand copies thereof be printed.

Mr. Gerry again reported the form of a Pass for the use
of the Members of this Congress ; which was accepted,
and six hundred of them ordered to be printed. It is as
follows :

" To the Guards of the Colony Army.
" Pursuant to a Resolve of the Provincial Congress, you
are hereby ordered to permit . . . . , a Member of said
Congress, to pass and repass at all times.

" Secretary."

In Provincial Congress, Watertown, )
May 1, 1775. ]

Resolved, That the General Officer of the Army of this
Colony be, and he hereby is directed to sign a sufficient
number of blank Passes for Members of this Congress, and
to deliver the same to the Secretary.

The Committee who were appointed to consider of mea-
sures for assisting the poor of Boston to move out of said
Town, having amended their Report, again reported : which
Report being read, was accepted, and one hundred and fifty
copies thereof ordered to be printed, and a copy forthwith
transmitted to the Committee of Donations in Boston, and
that Mr. Gill take the charge of transmitting the same.

The Report is as follows, viz :

" In Provincial Congress, Watertown, )
May 1, 1775. \

" Whereas, the inhabitants of the Town of Boston have
been detained by General Gage, but at length, by agree-
ment, are permitted to remove, with their effects, into the
country; and as it has been represented to this Congress,
that about five thousand of said inhabitants are indigent,
and unable to be at the expense of removing themselves:

Therefore, Resolved, That it be, and it is hereby recom-
mended to all the good people of this Colony, and espe-
cially to the Selectmen, and Committee of Correspond-

ence most convenient to Boston, that they aid and assist
such poor inhabitants with teams, wagons, 8tc, as shall
procure a certificate from the Committee of Donations
that they are unable to remove themselves; and it is fur-
ther recommended to the Selectmen of the several Towns
specified in the schedule annexed, to provide for said in-
habitants, in the best and most prudent way, until this, or
some future Congress shall take further order thereon ; and
that the said Selectmen receive, support, and employ their
proportion of said inhabitants, assigned them in said sche-
dule, and no other; and render their accounts to this or
some future Congress, or House of Representatives, for
allowance ; which reasonable accounts shall be paid out of
the publick Treasury. And it is further recommended to
the Committee of Donations, to apply said donations for
the removal of said inhabitants, and for their support whilst
removing ; and in case that is insufficient, it is further re-
commended to said Committee of Donations, that they
make up said deficiency, and lay their accounts before the
Congress for allowance, which reasonable expense shall be
paid out of the publick Treasury of the Colony. And it
is further Resolved, That the inhabitants of Boston thus
removed, shall not, in future, be considered as the poor of
said Town into which they remove ; and it is to be under-
stood, that if the number of the poor who shall be removed
in consequence hereof, should surpass or fall short of the
number herein calculated, the distribution of them shall be
increased or diminished, in proportion to this regulation :

Suffolk.

persons, 89

32

" 38

" 25

31

County.
persons,

««

County of
Wrentham,
Stoughtonham,
Medway,
Bellingham,
Walpole,

Middlesex
Concord,
Marlborough,
Billerica,
Framingham,
Chelmsford,
Sherburne,
Sudbury,
Weston,
Westford,
Littleton,
Hopkinton,
Stow,
Groton,
Pepperel,
Townsend,
Natick,
Dracut,
Bedford,
Holliston,
Tewksbury,
Acton,
Dunstable,
Lincoln,
Wilmington,

Plymouth County.
Brigewater, persons,
Abington, "

Halifax, »

it
«

u

Bristol County.

Taunton,

Rehoboth,

Dartmouth,

Norton,

Mansfield,

Attleborough,

Raynham,

Easton ,

Berkley,

persons.

215

66
80
54
63
49
31
85
41
45
41
42
36
61
34
26
20
35
29
34
28
32
30
29
25

1016

81
22
12

115

103
129
113
47
30
75
31
35
25

588

Berkshire County.
Sheffield, persons, 54

Great-Barrington " 24

Stockbridge, " 25

Pittsfield, " 31

New-Marlborough, 30

Egremont, " 13

Richmond, " 23

Lenox, " 16

Tyringham, " 13

Lanesborough, " 32

Sandisfield, " 23

Williamstown, " 20

East-Hoosock, " 10

314

Hampshire County.
Springfield, persons,
Wilbraham, "

Northampton, "

Southampton, "

Hadley, "

South Hadley, "
Amherst, "

Granby, "

Hatfield, "

Whately, "

Williamsburgh, "
Westfield, "

Deerfield, "

Greenfield, "

Shelburn, "

Conway, "

Sunderland, "

Montague,

Northfield,

Brimfield,

South-Brimfield,

Monson,

Pelham,

Greenwich,

Blandford,

Leverett,

Palmer,

Granville,

New-Salem,

Belchertown,

Colrain,

Ware,

Warwick,

Bernardston,

Murraysfield,

H

It

«

it

68
31
70
25
30
23
34
17
35
13

9
50
36
24
14
17
19
18
26
44
26
23
25
24
19

4
25
44
22
28
17
13
10
14
17

779

MASSACHUSETTS PROVINCIAL CONGRESS, MAY, 1775.

780

Charlemont,

persons,

12 Shrewsbury,

persons.

32

Worthington,

M

6

Lunenburgh,

II

51

Shutesbury,

<<

14 Fitchburgh,

it

19

Chesterfield,

it

22

Uxbridge,

tt

36

South wick,

t(

19

Harvard,

it

50

West-Springfield, "

73

Dudli

II

32

Ludlow,

cf

10

Bolton,

<<

48

1069

Upton,

C!

20

Sturbridge,

<<

45

Worcester

Comity.

Leominster,

a

38

Worcester,

persons,

82

Hardwick,

it

55

1 -ancaster,

(<

103

Holden,

tt

26

Mendon,

u

76

Weston,

tt

35

Brookfield,

it

99

Douglass,

tt

22

Oxford,

It

35

Grafton,

tt

38

Charlton,

a

35

Petersham,

it

38

Sutton,

it

98

Royalston,

a

8

Leicester,

a

36

Westminster,

it

31

Spencer,

a

31

Athol,

tt

20

Paxton,

u

20

Templeton,

a

25

Rutland,

a

48

Princeton,

a

24

Oakham,

II

14

Ashburnham,

tt

12

Hutchinson,

tt

42

Winchendon,

tt

9

Hubhardston,

it

9 Northbridge, '

a

13

New-Braintree

It

1

32

1586

Southborough,

14

36

Westborough,

If

38

Whole number,

4903

IVorthborough,

it

25

Ordered, That Mr. Patridge, Mr. Lothrop and Doc-
tor Baylies, be directed to assist the Secretary in copying
the foregoing Report, &ic.

The Committee appointed to confer with William Read,
Esq., reported the following, (presented to them by Wm.
Read, Esq., of Lexington, in behalf of Joseph Loring, J.
Loring, Jun., Widow Mulliken, and Joseph Pond,) viz:

" Joseph Loring, Joseph Loring, Jun., Widow Lydia
Mulliken, and Joseph Pond, had their houses, furniture, pro-
visions, and all apparel, burnt by Gen. Gage's Troops in the
late battle, whereby they are reduced to a state of abject
poverty. William Read, Esquire, prays, in behalf of the
above distressed inhabitants of Lexington, that they may
have a present relief from the honourable Congress of one
hundred and sixty pounds of Pork, in order to prevent
their starving."

Whereupon, Ordered, That the Committee of Supplies
lie, and they are hereby directed to deliver to said William
Read, Esq., or to his order, for the use of the said Joseph
Loring, Joseph Loring, Jun., Widow Mulliken, and Joseph
Pond, one barrel of Fork.

Ordered, That Mr. Hollock, Colonel How and Cap-
tain White, be a Committee to consider what is proper to
be done, with respect to furnishing the Army with some
present necessaries.

All the Committees were enjoined to sit.

Adjourned until to-morrow morning.

Tuesday, May 2, 1775.

Resolved, That another President be chosen pro tern.,
and that he be chosen by nomination.

Colonel Warren was then nominated and chosen.

Ordered, That Mr. Patridge, Doctor Taylor and Mr.
Dir, be a Committee to wait on Colonel Warren, to inform
him of said choice.

Colonel Warren accordingly attended, and after offering
his reasons for excuse, Moved, that a Commute be appoint-
ed to wait on Doctor Joseph Warren, informing him of the
absence of the Reverend Mr. Murray, who has lately offi-
ciated as President, and to know if he can now attend the
Congress in that station. Whereupon,

Ordered, That Doctor Dunsmore be a Committee for
that purpose; who accordingly waited upon Doctor War-
ren, and received the following reply :

" Cinibrirlge, May 2, 1775.

" Doctor Warren presents his best respects to the hon-
ourable the Provincial Congress: informs them that he
will obey their order, and attend his duty in Congress in
the afternoon."

Ordered, That Colonel Gerrish, Colonel Warren, Hon.
Mr. Dexter, Mr. Gill, and Capi. Broun, of Abington, be

a Committee to consider the propriety of taking measures
for securing the records of those Counties which are more
immediately exposed in this day of danger.

Ordered, That the Honourable Mr. Dexter, Colonel
Warren, and Mr. Gill, be a Committee to prepare a
draught of a Letter to the Delegates of Congress, now in
Connecticut, giving then) instruction with respect to the
arrival at this Colony of two gentlemen from the Assembly
of Connecticut, with an address to General Gage, and a
commission to treat with him respecting a cessation of hos-
tilities, &c.

Ordered, That Captain Stone, of Oakham, Deacon
Rawson, and Major Fuller, of Newton, be a Committee
to draw up the form of an oath to be taken by the Officers
and Soldiers of the Army, now forming in this Colony.

The Committee appointed to consider what might be
proper to be done with respect to furnishing the Army
with some present necessaries, reported.

The Report was read, and ordered to lie on the table for
the present.

A Letter from Manchester, to Doctor Tay lor, respecting
a computation of the Taxes paid by Great Britain and
America, &tc, was read: Whereupon,

Ordered, That Mr. Webster, Deacon Cheever, and
Captain Stone, be a Committee to take the said Letter into
consideration, and make report.

The Committee who were appointed to prepare a Letter
to the Delegates of this Congress at Connecticut, reported ;
which Report being read, was unanimously accepted, and is
as follows, viz :

"Gentlemen: Although this Congress entertain the
highest opinion of the virtue and publick spirit of the
Colony of Connecticut, and have not the smallest doubt
of the attachment of the General Assembly of that Colony
to the glorious cause of freedom, now: threatened with total
destruction by a corrupt Ministry ; yet the arrival of two
gentlemen, of the first character, from that Colony, with an
address to General Gage, and a commission to treat with
him on the subject of American grievances, and to propose,
as we are informed, a cessation of hostilities, at a time
when that gentleman can be considered in no other light
than as an instrument in the hands, and under the absolute
direction of Administration, to subjugate, and for that de-
testable purpose, to spread slaughter and destruction among
His Majesty's loyal subjects ; of his disposition to do which,
he has recently given a flagrant proof in massacring a
number of innocent people, who were in the peace of God
and the King; and by other acts of injustice and cruelty,
we cannot but be greatly alarmed for the consequences.
Any interruptions of that happy union of the Colonies
which has taken place, would prove of the most fatal ten-
dency, and we cannot but view every kind of negotiation
between any Colony and the chief instrument of ministerial
vengeance here, as being likely to operate towards such an
interruption. We apprehend that things are now reduced
to such a state, that nothing but an immediate recourse to
arms, and a steady and persevering exertion in military
operations can possibly prevent our destruction, and that a
recourse to any other method is, at best, nugatory and vain.

" Any proposals, either to Parliament, to the Ministry, or
to their Agents here, made separately by a single Colony,
may produce most tremendous events with regard to Ame-
rica ; and we apprehend nothing could be more pleasing to
our enemies than the making such proposals. We are so
deeply impressed with the sense of the importance and
absolute necessity of a thorough union of the Colonies, and
particularly with respect to the raising and supporting an
Army, to act with the utmost vigour at this alarming crisis :
and so fearful of any measures taking place, whereby the
common cause may be endangered, that we have unani-
mously concluded it necessary to suggest to you our fears
respecting the effects of this embassy from Connecticut to
Gage ; and we expect you will make a proper representa-
tion of the sentiments of this Congress to their Assembly,
in hopes that you will receive such an explanation of their
motives, and such assurances of their intention immediately
to co-operate with this Colony, as may remove every
gloomy apprehension, and confirm us in that high estima-
tion in which we have ever held the respectable Colony of
Connecticut*.

781

MASSACHUSETTS PROVINCIAL CONGRESS, MAY, 1775.

782

" P. S. If the Assembly is dissolved, it is expected that
you will tarry to treat with the next Assembly.
" To Jedediah Foster, Timothy Daniehon, and John

Bliss, Esquires."

On motion made,

Ordered, That at three o'clock this afternoon, this
Congress do take into consideration the Precepts issued by
General Gage for calling a General Assembly.

Resolved, That Captain Goodman be directed to take
the charge of transmitting, forthwith, the Letter to the
Delegates of this Colony, now in Connecticut.

Ordered, That a postscript be added to said Letter, in-
structing said Delegates that if their Assembly should be
dissolved, they tarry there, to treat with the new Assem-
bly.

Adjourned to three o'clock, P. M.

Afternoon.

A Letter was presented to this Congress by Esquire
Aikin, from Mr. Lemuel Williams, dated Dartmouth, May
1st, 1775, to said Aikin, which was read : Whereupon,

Ordered, That Mr. Batchelder, Esquire Dix, Colonel
Farley, Mr. Greenleaf, and Mr. Bent, be a Committee
to take the said Letter into consideration, and report as
soon as may be, and that Esquire Aikin be desired to at-
tend on said Committee.

The Order of the Day was moved for.

Resolved, That the further consideration of the Precepts
for calling a General Assembly, be referred to Thursday
next, at ten o'clock, A. M.

Ordered, That Deacon Cheever, Colonel JVarren, Mr.
Gill, Honourable Mr. Dexter, and the President, be a
Committee to bring in a Resolve, for the purpose of grant-
ing liberty to such persons in Boston as incline to send
into the country for their effects, that so another obstacle
may be removed to the liberating of the inhabitants of
Boston.

Ordered, That Mr. Gerry, President Warren, Hon.
Mr. Dexter, Colonel Warren, and Colonel Gerrish, be a
Committee to forward an express to the honourable Con-
tinental Congress, with authenticated copies of the Depo-
sitions and Address to the inhabitants of Great Britain,
and Letter to Mr. Franklin, lately sent to Great Britain,
per Captain Derby, of Salem; also, to send another original
set of said papers by said express, to be forwarded by the
vessel in the Southern Colonies, to London, and to report
an application to be sent by said express to the Continen-
tal Congress.

Colonel Learned moved, that the sense of this Con-
gress might be taken, whether the Regiment he is now
raising, may be a Regiment of Grenadiers. The matter
was ordered to subside.

A motion was made and seconded, that a Committee be
appointed, to take into consideration the expediency of
drafting a certain proportion of the Town's stock of Pow-
der, &lc, from such Towns as they shall think proper, for
the present supply of the Army now establishing in this
Colony. The matter was ordered to subside until the
Congress had passed upon a Report for giving license to
such persons in Boston as incline to send into the country
for their effects ; which Report was read, amended, and ac-
cepted, and is as follows, viz :

" In Pr^vinciil Congress, Watertown, May 2, 1775.

" Resolved, That such inhabitants of this Colony as have
repaired to the Town of Boston, there to take up their
residence, and have effects in the other Towns of this
Government, be permitted, each of them, to send out a
servant or other person, without arms, to put up and trans-
port into the said Town of Boston, any such goods or
effects, excepting arms and ammunition ; and that the
officers appointed for granting permits at Roxbury and
Charlestown, be, and hereby are directed to provide a
suitable attendant to each person so sent out, whose busi-
ness it shall be to continue with him till he returns, and
that permits, agreeable to the intention of this Resolve, be
granted."

Ordered, That Mr. Freeman, Doctor Taylor, Mr.
Lewis, Colonel Dwight, and Esquire Gardner, be a Com-
mittee to consider what measures are proper to be taken

for liberating those persons who were taken prisoners by
the Troops under the command of General Gage, on the
1 9th of April.

The Committee appointed to devise ways and means for
supplying the Treasury, reported, as to the first step, and
asked leave to sit again.*

All the Committees were enjoined to sit.

Adjourned to nine o'clock to-morrow morning.

Wednesday. M «y 3, 11 ';■.

Ordered, That Deacon Cheever be desired to make
application to the Reverend Doctor Cooper, to request
that he would officiate as Chaplain to this Congress during
its session in this place.

Ordered, That Doctor Taylor, Mr. Lothrop, and Mr.
Paine, be a Committee to forward the Proclamations for a
Fast into the country as soon as possible.

Resolved, That this last mentioned Order be reconsider-
ed ; and thereupon,

Ordered, That the Committee who were appointed at
Concord for dispersing the Proclamations, be required to
perform their duty with all possible expedition.

On the application from the Committee of Safety rela-
tive to supplying Col. Arnold with one hundred Pounds,
and sundry Warlike Stores,

Ordered, That Mr. Greenleaf, Mr. Gill, and Mr. Pa-
tridge, be a Committee to take said application into con-
sideration, and report.

The Committee on the application from the Committee
of Safety reported. The Report was read and accepted,
and is as follows:

" In Provincial Congress, Watertown, May 3, 1775. ^N

" Resolved, That the within request of the Committee of
Safety be granted, and that the Committee of Supplies be,
and they hereby are directed to furnish Colonel Benedict
Arnold with ten Horses, two hundred pounds of Gun-
powder, two hundred pounds of Lead Balls, and one thou-
sand Flints, at the expense of the Colony ; and that said
Committee draw upon Henry Gardner, Esquire, Receiver-
Genera!, for one hundred Pounds, in favour of said Ar-
nold, and take his receipt for the whole, said Arnold to be
accountable therefor to this or some other Congress, or
future House of Representatives."

Ordered, That Colonel Warren, Doctor llolten, Mr.
Dix, Colonel Farley, and Doctor Taylor, be a Committee
to ascertain the power of the Committees of Supplies and
of Safety, and to see whether it be necessary that they be
invested with other powers than they now have.

The Committee appointed to bring in the form of a Re-
solve, empowering the Treasurer to borrow a certain sum
of Money, and the form of a Note to be by him given to the
lender, &tc, reported. The Report was amended, read,
and accepted, and is as follows :

Resolved, That the Receiver-General be, and hereby is
empowered and directed to borrow the sum of One Hun-
dred Thousand Pounds, lawful money, and issue Colony
securities for the same, payable with annual interest, at six
per cent., June 1st, 1777; and that the Continental Con-
gress be desired to recommend to the several Colonies to
give a currency to such securities.

Resolved, That the Securities given by the Receiver-
General for the Moneys borrowed by him, in pursuance of
the aforegoing Resolve, be in the form following, viz :

" No. ... The ... day of A. D. 177 .

" Borrowed and received of A. B. the sum of

Pounds, lawful money, for the use and service of the
Colony of the Massachusetts-Bay ; and in behalf of said
Colony, 1 do hereby promise and oblige myself and my suc-
cessors in the office of Treasurer or Receiver-General, to
repay to the said A. B., or to his order, on the first day of

* The Committee appointed to devise ways and means for supplying
tho Treasury, bog leave to report, as the first step, that the Receiver
General be empowered and directed to borrow the sum of One Hun-
dred Thousand Pounds, and issue Colony securities in the form fol-
lowing, payable with annual interest, at six per cent., in the year
177 ; and that when the subscription is filled up, tho Continental
Congress be desired to recommend it to the several Colonies, to give a
currency to such securities in all payments whatsoever, and that a
Resolve pass for that purpose. The Committee ask leave to sit again.

i?. Dextek, per order

783

MASSACHUSETTS PROVINCIAL CONGRESS, MAY, 1775

784

June, 1777, the aforesaid sum of Pounds,

lawful money, in Spanish milled dollars, at six shillings
each, or in the several species of coined silver and gold
enumerated in an act for ascertaining the rates at which
rawed silver and gold, English half-pence and farthings,
may pass within this Government, and according to the
rates therein mentioned, with interest, to he paid annually,
at six per cent.

A. B, ) Witness my hand,

CD, <■£ H. G.

E. F. )

The Committee on the Letter from Mr. Lee to Doctor
Taylor, reported verbally, that a copy of said Letter be
forwarded to our Members of the Continental Congress.

Upon a motion, the question was put, whether the above
Report be accepted, and passed in the negative.

Resolved, That in all orders for impressing Horses and
Carriages, the Horses and Carriages of the Members of
this Congress be excepted, and that a copy of this Resolve
be sent to the Committee of Safety and Committee of
Supplies.

Ordered, That at three o'clock this afternoon, the Con-
gress will take into consideration the propriety of establish-
ing pay for a Brigade Major.

Ordered, That at five o'clock this afternoon, the Con-
gress will come to the choice of a Committee of three
persons (by ballot) to procure a Copperplate for printing
the Colony Notes, and to countersign them.

Ordered, That the Committee who reported a Resolve
relative to borrowing Money, &c, bring in a Resolve that
no note be given by, the Receiver-General for a less sum
than four Pounds.

Adjourned to three o'clock, P. M.

Afternoon.

The Committee appointed to bring in a Resolve that
no note be given by the Receiver-General for any sum
less than four Pounds, reported ; the Report was amended
and accepted, and is as follows :

" Whereas, inconveniences may arise by the Receiver-
General issuing notes for small sums :

'•' Therefore, resolved, That the Receiver-General be,
and he hereby is, directed not to issue any notes for a less
sum than four Pounds, lawful money."

The Report of the Committee appointed to take into
consideration the advance pay to the Soldiers, was taken
up and read, but as part of the Report is superseded by a
Resolve in the morning :

•' Therefore, ordered, That the Report be recommitted,
and that part thereof which hath been superseded be left
out, and that each Soldier be allowed twenty Shillings,
lawful money, advance.

The Order of the Day was moved for.

Resolved, That Captain Parker, Colonel Howe, and
Colonel Farley, be a Committee to take into consideration
the propriety of establishing pay for a Brigade Major.

The above Vote was reconsidered.

The Committee appointed to report the form of an Oath,
reported ; the Report was read, and recommitted.

Ordered, That Major Fuller and Captain Brown, of
Waterlown, be a Committee to count and sort the votes
for a Committee to procure a Copperplate for printing
the Colony Notes, and to countersign them.

The Committee having attended that service, reported,
that the Honourable Samuel Dexter, Esquire, Doctor
Joseph Warren, and Mr. Moses Gill, were chosen.

Mr. Cheever, who was appointed to wait on the Reve-
rend Doctor Cooper, and desire his attendance on this Con-
gress to officiate as their Chaplain, reported, that he had
attended the service assigned him, and that the state of the
Doctor's affairs was such that he could not attend, accord-
ing to the desire of the Congress.

The Committee appointed to report a Letter to the Con-
tinental Congress, reported ; the Report was read and
accepted, and ordered to be copied, and forwarded as soon
as may be.

Ordered, That Colonel Davis be desired to wait on the
Reverend Mr. Gordon, and desire that he would attend
on this Congress, and officiate as their Chaplain during
their session in the Town of JVutertoum.

The Committee who were appointed to take under con-
sideration the advance pay to the Soldiers, reported : the
Report was recommitted, and Captain Stone and Doctor
Taylor added to the Committee.

The Committee who were appointed to consider what
measures are proper to be taken for liberating those persons
who were taken prisoners by the Troops, under General
Gage, on the nineteenth of April, reported a Resolve ;
which was read and accepted, and Ordered, that any
Member who desires a copy may have one.* The Re-
solve is as follows:

" In Provincial Congress, Watertown, )
"May 3, 1775. ]

" Whereas, a number of the inhabitants of this Colony
were taken prisoners by the Troops, under the command
of General Gage, on the nineteenth of April last, and are
by him so held :

" Resolved, That it is the opinion of this Congress, that
an application be sent to General Gage, signed by the
wives or nearest relations of such prisoners, and the Se-
lectmen of the Towns to which they respectively belong,
desiring that he would discharge their friends from their
said imprisonment ; and they are empowered hereby to
offer to send in to the General an equal number of his
Troops, now in the hands of this people, who were taken
prisoners on the aforesaid nineteenth of April, upon his
liberating their friends as aforesaid."

Adjourned to nine o'clock to-morrow morning.

Thursday, May 4, 1775.

Colonel Davis, who was appointed to wait upon the
Reverend Mr. Gordon, to desire that he would officiate
as Chaplain to this Congress, reported that he had waited
upon Mr. Gordon, and that Mr. Gordon informed him
that he would attend accordingly.

The Committee who were appointed to take into con-
sideration the advance pay to the Soldiers, again reported ;
which Report was read, amended, and accepted, and order-
ed to be authenticated, and sent forthwith to Head-Quar-
ters. It is as follows :

" Whereas, the distressed state of this Colony, at this
alarming crisis, calls for its utmost exertions that the Army
now to be raised be forthwith completed :

" Therefore, resolved, That each non-commissioned Offi-
cer and Private Soldier, who has or shall enlist himself into
the service of this Colony, shall have twenty Shillings paid
him out of the Receiver-General's Office, as an advance ;
and that the Commanding Officer of each Regiment, who
shall be empowered to act as Muster-Master for his said
Regiment, shall draw from the Receiver-General's Office
the sum of twenty Shillings for each Non-commissioned
Officer and Private Soldier in his said Regiment, and pay
the same, according to the tenour of this Resolve, as soon
as said men shall have enlisted themselves and be duly
sworn, and give his bond (with sufficient surety) to the
Receiver-General therefor ; said bond to be discharged by
a receipt produced by said Officer from each Non-commis-
sioned Officer and Private Soldier, that he has received the
same."

On application made to this Congress for an order on
the Committee of Supplies for one barrel of Powder, for
the use of the inhabitants of Falmouth, in Casco-Bay :

Ordered, That this matter be referred to the said Com-
mittee of Supplies ; they to act thereon as they think best.

The Order of the Day moved for.

The absent Members were ordered to be called in.

On a motion made, that a Committee be appointed to
bring in a Resolve containing a reconsideration of a Re-
solve passed by this Congress at Concord, the first of April

* In Provincial Congress, Watertown, May 3, 1775.
The Committee who were appointed by this Congress to consider
what measures are proper to be taken for liberating those persons who
were taken prisoners by the Troops under General Gage, on the uine*
teenth of April, beg leave to report, they are of opinion, that if an
application were sent to General Gage, signed by the wives or near.
est relations of such prisoners, and the Selectmen of the Towns to
which they respectively belong, who are empowered hereby to oiler to
send in those names, it would be the most effectual method which
could be taken for their release ; but if such application should be un.
Rali they think it would be highly expedient for this Congress
to consent to an exchange of prisoners ; further, to take such measures
in assistance to the friends of those unhappy captives as, in their
wisdom, they may think will be proper to be taken for that purpose.

r85

MASSACHUSETTS PROVINCIAL CONGRESS, MAY, 1775.

786

last, giving it as their opinion, that '•' if Writs should be
issued for calling a General Assembly, to be held on the
last Wednesday of May next, that the several Towns in
this Colony ought to obey such precepts," and to bring in
a Resolve recommending to the several Towns and Dis-
tricts in this Colony not to obey such precepts : after a long
and serious debate, the question was put, and it passed in
the affirmative. For the question 94 ; the whole number
of the House 107.

Colonel Warren, Mr. Gerry, Colonel Gcrrish, Doctor
Holtcn, and Colonel Mundcll, were accordingly appointed
for this purpose.

Ordered, That Captain Stone, of Framingham, Mr.
Bent, and Major Fuller, be a Committee to examine the
returns of the several Towns and Districts' stocks of Pow-
der, and to bring in a Resolve recommending to such
Towns as they think proper, which are not immediately
exposed, to furnish the Towns of Falmouth and Arundel
with one barrel of Powder each.

Adjourned to three o'clock, this afternoon.

Afternoon.

Resolved, That General Putnam and Colonel Porter,
who were, with others of the Committee of Safety, ap-
pointed by the said Committee of Safety and the Council
of War to lay some special matters before this Congress,
be admitted into this House, and that Colonel JVarren,
Mr. Devens, and Colonel Gerrish, be a Committee to in-
troduce them.

The left hand front Pew was assigned them to sit in.

The absent Members were directed to attend.

The said Committee having accordingly attended this
Congress, they informed the Congress, that the gentlemen
delegated by the Assembly of Connecticut, to execute an
embassy to General Gage, had come out of Boston with
Letters from him to the Assembly of Connecticut, of which
they thought it proper to inform this Congress, that they
might take order thereon if they thought fit. Whereupon,

Ordered, That the President, Colonel Warren, Doctor
Holtcn, Colonel Gerrish, Colonel Palmer, Doctor Baylies,
Doctor Taylor, Mr. Gardner, Mr. Patridge, Mr. Gerry,
and Mr. Mitts, together with the Committee from the Com-
mittee of Safety and Council of War, be a Committee to
bold a conference with the said Delegates from Connecticut,
and to attend forthwith.

Tiie Committee appointed to inquire into the conduct of
the several Towns, relative to the prisoners of war, reported.
Whereupon,

Ordered, That Mr. Wyman apply to the Committee of
Safety, desiring that they would take such measures with
respect to the Colony Stores, and two Regular Officers, with
their waiters, now at Woburn, as will remove the necessi-
ty of keeping so large a guard as is now placed there to
guard the same.

The Committee appointed to confer with the Connecticut
Delegates, reported, that they had conferred with them on
the subject of their embassy, and of the Letter to their
Assembly from General Gage; but that they thought it in-
consistent with their honour, and the interest of the Colo-
nies, to open it; but that they would use their influence
when they returned, to have the contents of it communi-
cated to this Colony.

Moved, That the Delegates from Connecticut be desired
to attend this Congress.

After debate, the matter was ordered to subside.
Ordered, That the President, Colonel Warren, Colonel
Dwight, Mr. Gerry, and Colonel Holten, be a Committee
ro return the compliments to the gentlemen from Connect-
icut, for their patient attendance to the inquiry made of
them by this Congress, respecting their embassy to General
Gege.

Moved, That the Resolve passed yesterday, respecting
advance pay for the Soldiers, be reconsidered, so far as it
respects Muster-Masters, and that two Muster-Masters be
appointed by this Congress.

After debate, the matter was ordered to subside.
Ordered, That the President, Mr. Gerry, and Colonel
Warren, be a Committee to prepare a Letter to the As-
sembly of Connecticut, respecting their late application to

General Gage

Ordered, That Captain Stone, Mr. Mills, Captain Mc-

Cobb, Doctor Perkins, Colonel Grout, and Mr. Kottock, be
directed to copy the Depositions of the late hostile pro-
ceedings of General Gage's Troops, to be transmitted to
Connecticut .

Adjourned until to-morrow morning, nine o'clock.

Friday, M.iy 5, 1775.

Ordered, That Deacon Slickncy and Mr. Webster be
added to the Committee who were appointed to examine
the Returns, and Districts' stock of Powder, &tc, May 4,
A.M.

Ordered, That Doctor Taylor, Mr. Batchelder, and
Doctor Holten, be a Committee to bring in a Resolve, re-
lative to an obstruction to the removing the inhabitants of
Boston, as expressed in a Letter to this Congress from the
Selectmen of Boston, and other papers ; and that said Re-
solve, when passed, together with the Resolve that passed
this Congress the second instant, giving license to those
persons in Boston who incline to send a servant out for
their effects, be authenticated and transmitted to General
Ward.

The Committee who were appointed to bring in two
Resolves respecting General Gage's Writs for calling an
Assembly, reported ; both of whicli were read and accepted,
and are as follows, viz:

Whereas, this Congress did, at their session at Concord,
on the first day of Ajml last, resolve, as their opinion, that
if Writs be issued (in form as the law directs) for calling
a General Assembly, to be held on the last Wednesday of
May next, that such Writs should be obeyed, &.c. And
whereas, many reasons now prevail, to convince us that
consequences of a dangerous nature <#ould result from the
operation of that Resolution : therefore,

Resolved, That the said Vote and Resolution be recon-
sidered, and it is hereby reconsidered and declared null and
void.

Whereas, his Excellency General Gage, since his arrival
in this Colony, hath conducted as an instrument in the hands
of an arbitrary Ministry to enslave this people, and a de-
tachment under his command have of late been ordered to
the Town of Concord, to destroy the publick Stores de-
posited in that place for the use of the Colony : and where-
as, by this clandestine and perfidious measure, a number of
respectable inhabitants of the Colony, without any provoca-
tion, have been illegally, wantonly, and inhumanly slaugh-
tered by the Troops : therefore,

Resolved, That the said General Gage hath, by these
means, and many others utterly disqualified himself to serve
this Colony as a Governour, and in every other capacity,
and that no obedience ought, in future, to be paid by the
several Towns and Districts in this Colony to his Writs
for calling an Assembly, or to his Proclamations, or any
other of his acts or doings ; but that, on the other hand, he
ought to be considered and guarded against as an unnatural
and inveterate enemy to this Country.

Ordered, That Mr. Gardner, Colonel Dwight, and
Colonel Warren, be a Committee to bring in a Resolve,
recommending the several Towns and Districts in this Col-
ony, to choose Delegates for a new Provincial Congress,
to be held on the last Wednesday of the present month.

The Committee who were appointed to prepare the
form of an Oath, to be taken by the Officers and Soldiers
of the Army now raising in this Colony, reported; which
Report was ordered for the present to subside.

The Committee who were this day appointed to bring
in a Resolve for the purpose of removing an obstruction to
the liberating the inhabitants of Boston, reported ; which
Report was ordered to be recommitted, and that Mr. Gill
and Mr. Patridge be added to the Committee.

The Committee who were yesterday appointed to pre-
pare a Letter to the Assembly of Connecticut, reported a
Letter, which was read, amended, and accepted, and is as
follows :

To the Honourable the Governour and Company of the

Colony of Connecticut :

Gentlemen : The Delegates appointed by your respect-
able Assembly, to treat with General Gage on the late un-
happy events which have occurred in this Colony, have
favoured us with a conference, and communicated the sub-
stance of their interview with him. We are greatly alarmed

Fourth Series. — Vol. ii.

50

787

MASSACHUSETTS PROVINCIAL CONGRESS, MAY, 1775.

788

at the unparalleled wickedness of our unnatural enemies,
in endeavouring to persuade our sister Colony that the in-
habitants of this first commenced hostilities; a suggestion
which we cannot but think will appear absurd, when the
great inequality of the Lexington Company, and detach-
ment of Regular Troops which attacked them, is coolly con-
sidered. But to put this matter in the clearest light, we beg
leave to enclose you the copies of depositions, taken by
order of this Congress and despatched for London, con-
taining the most incontestable evidence that the King's
Troops first fired upon and killed several of the inhabitants
of this Colony, before any injury was offered to them.
We also enclose you the copies of an Address to the in-
habitants of Great Britain, and of a letter to our Colony
Agent, and think it expedient to suspend the publication
of the address and letter, until they shall have had their
effect in England.

The experience which we have had of General Gage,
hath fully convinced us that but little dependance can be
placed in his professions. Whilst he has been collect-
ing his forces, fortifying our capital, and in every other
respect preparing for war, we have been amused with
his pretension to benevolence and kindness, evidently cal-
culated to retard the measures which we were necessarily
pursuing for self-defence. And we are constrained to de-
clare, that should he be at any future time possessed of
forces superiour to those raised for opposing him, we
should, from his past conduct, have no hopes of escaping
the heaviest vengeance which ministerial tyranny could
devise, assisted by the most inveterate enemies to man-
kind in general, and of this their native Country in par-
ticular.

On the exertions of the Colonies and blessings of Heaven,
we alone can depend for safety and support ; and it is clearly
the opinion of this Congress, that the establishment of a
powerful army is the best and only measure left to bring
the present disputes to a happy issue.

It is evidently the business of the General to subjugate
these and the other Colonies ; and we think there are the
most convincing proofs, that, in order to effect it, he is con-
stantly aiming to suspend their operations for defence until
his re-enforcements shall arrive. But although we have
been under great apprehensions with respect to the advan-
tages which the conference of Connecticut with General
Gage may give our enemies, yet we have the greatest con-
fidence in the wisdom and vigilance of your respectable
Assembly and Colony, as well as of our other sister Col-
onies, and have reason to hope, that while he fails in his
intentions to lull and deceive this Continent, he can never
accomplish his designs to conquer it.

Ordered, That the foregoing Letter be fairly copied and
authenticated, and committed to the care of Col. Dwight,
together with the copy of the Depositions respecting the
late hostile proceedings of General Gage's Troops, attested
by the Secretary, to be delivered by Colonel Dwight to
the Governour and Company of Connecticut, as soon as
may be.

Adjourned to three o'clock, P. M.

Afternoon.

The Committee who were to bring in a Resolve for the
purpose of removing an obstruction to the liberating the
inhabitants of Boston, again reported ; which Report being
read and accepted, it was ordered that Mr. Patridge carry
the same immediately to Mr. Ward. It is as follows, viz :

Resolved, That the following Letter be sent to Gen-
eral Ward, and a copy of the same to the Selectmen of
Boston :

In Provincial Congress, May 5, 1775.

Sir : By the enclosed papers you will see that the libe-
ration of our good friends in Boston is greatly obstructed ;
therefore, Sir, you are directed to examine into the matter,
and give such orders as shall be effectual for the future ;
strictly to execute the resolutions of this Congress, respect-
ing permits into the country, and protection of all persons
thus permitted ; and also communicate your doings hereon
to the Selectmen of Boston with all possible despatch, that
our friends may not be detained any longer; and also that
you give directions to your officers, carefully to execute
the resolves of Congress in all matters in which they are

to act, without any levity, or indecency of expression or
behaviour.

To the Honourable Artcmas Hard, Esquire.

1'. S. The pass given by the Selectmen must be in strict
conformity to the resolve of Congress, viz : That the
bearer is sent out to put up and transport into the Town
of Boston, the goods and effects of such persons as have
repaired to Boston, there to take up their residence.

On a Petition from Charles Glidden and others, for a
supply of Powder, &c. :

Ordered, That Doctor Taylor inform said Glidden, now
in waiting, that this Congress would gladly comply with
their request, did not the present exigencies of the Colony
make it necessary that all their stock of Ammunition be
retained in the Colony Magazine.

The Committee who were appointed to bring in a Re-
solve, recommending the choice of Delegates for a new
Provincial Congress, reported the following, which was read
and accepted, and is as follows, viz :

Whereas the term for which this present Congress was
chosen, expires on the thirtieth instant, and the exigencies
of our publick affairs render it absolutely necessary, for the
safety of this Colony, that a new Congress be elected and
convened, to consider of and transact the publick affairs
thereof:

Resolved, That it be, and it is hereby recommended to
the several Towns and Districts in this Colony, that they
each of them do forthwith elect and depute as many Mem-
bers as to them shall seem necessary and expedient, to rep-
resent them in a Provincial Congress, to be held at the
meeting-house in Watertown, on the thirly-first day of May
instant, to be chosen by such only as are qualified by law
to vote for Representatives in the General Assembly, and
to be continued by adjournment from day to day, as they
shall see cause, until the expiration of six months from
their being first convened on the thirty-first of this instant,
May, and no longer, and consult, deliberate, and resolve
upon such further measures as, under God, shall be effectual
to save this people from impending ruin, and to secure those
inestimable liberties derived to us from our ancestors, and
which it is our duty to preserve for posterity.

Ordered, That this last mentioned Resolve, together
with the Resolve passed in the forenoon, respecting General
Gage's precepts, be printed in handbills, and that Major
Fuller, Captain Batchelder, and Esquire Dix, be a Com-
mittee to get the same printed and dispersed to the several
Towns and Districts in this Colony.

The gentlemen who were appointed Delegates for this
Colony, to the Colony of Connecticut, reported, that they
had attended the business to which they were appointed,
and had brought a letter from the Speaker of the Connect-
icut Assembly, which they laid before this Congress.

Resolved, That the Vote which passed in Congress this
day, respecting a Petition made by Charles Glidden and
others, for Powder and Ball, be reconsidered, and that the
Committee of Supplies be, and hereby are desired to fur-
nish the said Charles Glidden, for the use of the subscri-
bers to said Petition, one half barrel of Powder, and
such a quantity of Lead as will be proper and propor-
tional thereto.

Resolved, That the Assembly of Connecticut be supplied
wilh the Rules and Regulations which have been recom-
mended to be observed by the Army now raising in this
Colony.

On a motion made by Captain McCobb, that some mea-
sures might be taken to preserve a number of large Masts,
Plank, &c, now lying in Kennebeck River, and to prevent
their being carried to Halifax, where they might be used
to the injury of this Country :

Ordered, That the consideration thereof be referred to
the Committee of Safety, and that Captain McCobb be de-
sired to attend the said Committee, and give them all the
information he can, relative thereto.

A Resolution of the Committee of Safety, giving it as
their opinion, that Government in full form ought to be
taken up immediately, was read : Whereupon,

Ordered, That the consideration of this matter be refer-
red to Tuesday next, at three o'clock, P. M.

Adjourned until to-morrow morning, nine o'clock.

789

MASSACHUSETTS PROVINCIAL CONGRESS, MAY, 1775.

790

Saturday, May G, 1775.

Resolved, That the Committee of Safety he, and they
are hereby empowered to procure Powder, in such quanti-
ties as they shall think necessary, not only at Connecticut
and Rhoilc-hland, but at New- York, or any other Colony
on the Continent.

Ordered, That Mr. Sawyer, Captain Stone, and Doctor
Taylor, be a Committee to bring in a Resolve for the pur-
pose of appointing two Officers (one in each Camp) of
the Colony Army, whose business it shall be to pass muster
on the Soldiers, and draw for them, out of the Treasury,
their half month's pay.

Ordered, That the President, Colonel Dexter, Colonel
IVarren, Doctor Holten, and Mr. Mills, be a Committee
to take into consideration the Letter received yesterday
from the Speaker of the General Assembly of Connecticut.

A form of a Pass, and Resolve thereon, brought in by
Colonel Warren, was accepted, and is as follows, viz :

" To the Guards of the Colony Army :
" Pursuant to a Resolve of the Provincial Congress,

you are hereby ordered to permit , a Member

of said Congress, to pass and repass, with his company, at

all times. , President pro tern.

" May . . . , 1775."

Resolved, That the General Officer of the Army of this
Colony be, and hereby is directed to give orders to his Offi-
cers to pay obedience to all Permits of the foregoing form,
signed by the President of this Congress.

Resolved, That Colonel Dwight proceed with the Let-
ters and Depositions, as ordered by this Congress, with all
possible speed, to Hartford, there to tarry (if, at his dis-
cretion, he thinks necessary) until he receives an answer to
said Letter, and a copy of the Letter sent by General
Gage to the Assembly at Connecticut ; and to inform the
said Assembly of the alteration made by this Congress in
the pay of the Field-Officers of the Army now raising in
this Colony.

Ordered, That Mr. Whiting, Major Fuller, Colonel
Thurston, Doctor Taylor, Colonel Field, Doctor Sawyer,
and Colonel Warren, be a Committee to bring in a Re-
solve containing a reconsideration of the Resolve passed
yesterday, respecting the choice of Delegates for a new
Congress, so far as to determine what Towns should send
Members, and how many Members each Town and District
ought to send.

This last Order was reconsidered : Whereupon,

Ordered, That Mr. Raicson, of Mendon, Colonel Gard-
ner, Mr. Thurston, Esquire Davis, and Mr. Sawyer, be a
Committee to take into consideration an equal representa-
tion of this Colony, and report thereon.

Ordered, That Colonel Thurston, Esquire Dix, and
Mr. Lothrop, be a Committee to take into consideration
the form of an Establishment for the Train, and report a
Resolve thereon.

The Committee appointed to bring in a Resolve for the
appointment of Muster-Masters, reported.

Resolved, That three o'clock this afternoon be assigned
for choosing two Muster-Masters, and that they be chosen
by ballot.

Col. Lincoln brought in a Resolve empowering the Com-
mittee of Supplies to import Military Stores from such place,
and in such manner and quantities, as they shall judge pro-
per; which was read and accepted, and is as follows, viz :

Whereas, in the course of the present disputes with
Great Britain, it may be necessary to import, on the risk
of the Colony, many kinds of Military and other Stores:

Resolved, That the Committee of Supplies be, and they
hereby are empowered and directed to import, or cause to
be imported from any place whatever, such and so many
Stores aforesaid, as they shall judge necessary for the de-
fence of the Colony, and the same to risk at their discre-
tion, with or without making insurance on the vessels and
cargoes which may be so sent out or imported.

Ordered, That this Resolve be kept an absolute and
entire secret by every Member of this Congress.

Resolved, That four o'clock this afternoon be assigned
to consider if any method can be taken for settling the ap-
pointment of the Field-Officers.

Adjourned to three o'clock, P. M.

Afternoon.

The Order of the Day was read.

Ordered, That Mr. Dix, Mr. Gill, and Doctor Sawyer,
be a Committee to sort and count the votes for two Muster-
Masters ; who reported, that General John Whitcomb and
Colonel Benjamin Lincoln were unanimously chosen.

The Report of the Committee respecting the appoint-*
nient of Muster-Masters, was accepted, and is as follows,
viz :

Resolved, That General John Whitcomb and Colonel
Benjamin Lincoln be, and hereby are appointed Muster-
Masters in the Massachusetts Army, whose business it shall
be to pass muster on every Soldier that shall be enlisted
into said Army, and by no means to accept of any but
such as are able-bodied effective men ; and also examine if
their Arms and Accoutrements are in proper order. And
said Muster-Masters are hereby directed and empowered
to receive from Henry Gardner, Esq., Receiver-General,
or his successors in office, twenty Shillings, lawful money,
for each and every Non-commissioned Officer and Private
Soldier thus mustered and sworn, who shall appear with
their Arms and Accoutrements ; and shall give Bonds to
said Receiver-General, with sufficient surety, for such
Moneys drawn out of the Treasury ; and shall forthwith
pay out said sum of twenty Shillings as advance pay to
each and every Non-commissioned Officer and Private
Soldier ; and on producing Receipts from them to said Re-
ceiver-General, said Bonds shall be cancelled.

Resolved, That the consideration of the Pay of the Mus-
ter-Masters be referred to some future time.

Ordered, That Colonel Thurston and Mr. Sawyer be
a Committee to apply to the Committee of Safety for a list
of all such persons to whom they have given encourage-
ment to receive Commissions as Field-Officers of the Army
now raising in this Colony ; and they are directed to in-
quire of said Committee of Safety what Field-Officers they
expect will be most likely to succeed in filling up their
Regiments.

Ordered, That Esquire Raivson, Mr. Patridge, Major
Brooks, Mr. Webster, Colonel Mosely, Mr. Bliss, and
Captain Stone, be a Committee to inquire what number of
Province Arms there are in the Province, and in what
place ; and in particular, that they apply to the Committee
of Supplies to know what number of Fire-Arms they have
procured, and how they have disposed of them.

The Committee who were appointed to consider the
form of an Establishment for the Train, reported verbally,
that the pay was, in their opinion, reasonable ; but as to
the number of Matrosses, they were not proper judges.
The Establishment was accepted, and is as follows, viz :

An Establishment for the Company of Train, as fixed
upon by the Committee of Safety.

Per month.

1 Captain, ---------- £6 10

2 Lieutenants, each ------- 4 10

1 Lieutenant Fire- Worker, ----- 3 10

4 Sergeants, each ------- 2 10

4 Corporals, each ------- 206

32 Matrosses, each ------- 2 03

1 Drummer, --------- 206

1 Fifer, , 2 06

46 men, officers included, in each Company of Matross-
es ; a blanket and coat, as for rest of the Army.

William Cooper, Secretary.

Adjourned until to-morrow morning, eight o'clock.

Sunday, May 7, 1775.

Resolved, That the Committee of Supplies be, and they
are hereby empowered and directed to procure at Connecti-
cut, Rhode-Island, New- York, or any other Colony on
the Continent, such a number of Fire-Arms and Bayonets
for the use of this Colony, as they shall think necessary.

The Committee appointed to make application to the
Committee of Supplies, to know what number of Fire-
Arms they had procured, reported verbally, that they had
not procured any.

On an application made to this Congress by Captain
Benjamin Dunning, of Harpsteell, for Powder, this Con-
gress passed the following Resolve, viz :

791

MASSACHUSETTS PROVINCIAL CONGRESS, MAY, IT7&

792

Whereas the District of Harpswdl, in the County of
Cumberland, lies exposed to the ravages of the enemies,
and is unprovided with a supply of Powder: therefore,

Resolved, That it be recommended to the Selectmen of
the Town of Haverhill, that they deliver to Captain Nehe-
miak Curtis and Mr. Benjamin Dunning, for the use of
the said District of Harpswtll, one barrel of Powder, they
paying for the same ; which shall be replaced (if needed)
as soon as the Colony Magazine can be supplied.

Adjourned to twelve o'clock this day.

Met at twelve o'clock, and adjourned to four o'clock,
P. M.

Met at four o'clock, and adjourned until to-morrow morn-
ing, nine o'clock.

Monday, May 8, 177.").

Ordered, That Mr. Lothrop, Mr. Patridge, Mr. Mills,
Mr. Whiting, Captain Stone, Colonel Howe, Colonel
Mandell, Colonel Mosely, Colonel Pierce, and Colonel
Thurston, be a Committee to transcribe the Narrative of the
proceedings of the King's Troops on the 19th ultimo, to-
gether with Depositions thereof accompanying, to be trans-
mitted to Mr. Thomas for immediate publication.

A Letter from a number of the inhabitants of the Town
of Hopkinlon, was read: Whereupon,

Ordered, That Doctor Church, Colonel Foster, and
Deacon Rawson, be a Committee to prepare an Answer
to the Selectmen of that Town, giving the opinion of the
Congress on the subject thereof.

The form of an Oath, to be administered to the Offi-
cers and Private Soldiers of the Army now raising in this
Colony, was read and accepted, and is as follows, viz:

Resolved, That all Officers and Soldiers of the Massa-
chusetts Army now raising for the defence and security of
the rights and liberties of this and our sister Colonies in
America, shall each and every of them, excepting only
the General Officers, repeat and take the following Oath,
viz :

" I, A, B, swear I will truly and faithfully serve in the
31assachusetts Army, to which I belong, for the defence
and security of the estates, lives, and liberties of the good
people of this and the sister Colonies in America, in oppo-
sition to Ministerial tyranny, by which they are or may be
oppressed, and to all other enemies and opposers whatso-
ever ; that I will adhere to the Rules and Regulations of
said Army, observe and obey the Generals and other Offi-
cers set over me, and disclose and make known to said
Officers all traitorous conspiracies, attempts and designs
whatsoever, which I shall know to be made against said
Army, or any of the English American Colonies. So help
me God."

Ordered, That Colonel Warren, Colonel Gerrish, and
Colonel Foster, be a Committee to prepare the form of
an Oath to be administered to the General Officers.

Ordered, That Colonel Warren, Esquire Dix, and Col-
onel Foster, be a Committee to draw up a Resolve recom-
mending to the Committees of Correspondence of the
several Towns and Districts in this Colony, and to the Se-
lectmen of Towns and Districts who have no such Commit-
tees, to take effectual care to discover all such persons in
their respective Towns, who will not give them an assurance
of their good intentions and regard to the interest of this
Country ; and also to recommend to the people of this
Colony to take effectual measures to oblige all who are
liable by law to appear in arms in the Militia, to appear
when properly called upon by their Officers.

Resolved, That the Muster-Masters be and hereby are
empowered and directed to administer the Oath to the Offi-
cers and Private Soldiers of the Army now raising in this
Colony, agreeably to the form prescribed by this Con-
gress.

The Committee who were appointed to prepare a Letter
to the Selectmen of the Town of Hopkinton, reported the
following ; which was read and accepted, and ordered to be
dated, signed, and delivered to the messenger in waiting :

Gentlemen : Your favour of the 7th instant was duly
considered in Congress. We cannot but regret that any
persons who have heretofore evidenced their attachment to
the rights and liberties of their Country, should, in this day

of trial and hazard, be so far influenced by an inordinate
attachment to their personal safety, or the security of their
property, as to desert the common interest, and basely re-
fuse to contribute of their wealth, or assist personally in
that Struggle which they are conscientiously led to approi
Nevertheless, gentlemen, such is the peculiar dehcac)
our situation, that true policy suggests we should act with
extreme caution respecting these fugitives. A violation i i
the natural right of an individual to remove his person and
effects wherever he pleases, would ill become those who
are contending for the inalienable right of every man to
his own property, and to dispose of it as he pleases. We
would likewise suggest, that should we restrain any inhabi-
tant from conveying his goods to Philadelphia, our brethi en
there migut justly arraign us of selfishness in such a trans-
action ; and it would evidence such a distinction of interests
in the two Colonies, as might have a tendency to disunite
us, at a time when the safety of the whole must ultimately
depend upon the firmest confederacy. We are aware 01
the mischiefs too general a removal might produce ; but we
have so much confidence in the disinterested virtue of our
countrymen, as to indulge hopes that Mr. Barretts exam-
ple will not become infectious.

We highly approve the steady patriotism and manly
jealousy of our brethren in Hopkinton, and are, gentlemen,
with much esteem, yours, he.

Ordered, That the President pro tern., Doctor Church,
Doctor Taylor, Doctor Holten, and Doctor Dunsmore, be
a Committee to examine such persons as are or may be
recommended for Surgeons for the Army now forming in
this Colony.

Resolved, That the persons recommended by the Com-
manding Officers of the several Regiments, be appointed
as Surgeons to their respective Regiments, provided they
appear to be duly qualified, upon examination.

A Letter from the Committee of Correspondence in
Portsmouth, dated May 6, was received by a messenger
express.

The Messenger was admitted on the floor.
Ordered, That said Letter be committed for an answer.
to Doctor Church, the President, and Captain Foster.
A Letter from General Ward was read : Whereupon,
Ordered, That Colonel Danielson, Doctor Church, Col-
onel Foster, Mr. Bliss, and Mr. Ratcson, be a Committee
to take the subject thereof into consideration, and report.
Leave of absence was granted to Mr. Patridge.
The Committee on the Letter from Portsmouth, in New-
Hampshire, reported the following Answer; which was
read and accepted, and ordered to be copied and sent.

Gentlemen : The Congress have considered the subject
of your express ; are surprised that a gentleman of the
character you have mentioned, should have such just reason
to complain of unmerited severity from any of our brethren
in this Colony. From a regard to justice, as well as to
your recommendation, gentlemen, we shall not fail to make
immediate inquiry into this transaction ; and if any outrage
has been offered to innocent persons, the perpetrators, you
may be assured, will be properly censured, and the suffer-
ers meet with all that redress which it may be in the power
of this Congress to obtain. Be assured, gentlemen, we
shall be studious to maintain that character for humanity,
which we would wish may ever be the characteristick of
Americans; and cannot but applaud those generous and
benevolent sentiments which influenced you in your appli-
cation. We are, he.

The Committee who were appointed to prepare the form
of an Oath to be taken by the General Officers, reported ;
the consideration whereof was referred to some future

time.

Ordered, That Colonel Mnsely and Major Bliss be, and
are hereby empowered and directed to collect all the Prov-
ince Arms which are in the County of Hampshire; and
that Doctor William Whiting be empowered and directed
to collect all the Province Arms which are in the County
of Berkshire.

Adjourned to three o'clock, P. M.

Afternoon.

Resolved, That Captain Trucman Wheeler, of Great
Barrington, be desired to assist Doctor Whiting in collect-

793

MASSACHUSETTS PROVINCIAL CONGRESS, .MAY, 1771

i 94

ing the Province Arms which are in the County of Berk-
shire.

Mr. Sawyer informed the Congress, that General Whit-
comb, on account of his various avocations, could not ac-
cept the office of Muster-Master to which he has heen
appointed : Whereupon,

Resolved, That this Congress will now proceed to the
choice of another person, by ballot, in his room, and that
Mr. Sawyer. Esquire Dix, and Major Fuller, be a Com-
mittee to sort and count the votes.

On a Motion made, Resolved, That this last Resolve be
reconsidered, and that to-morrow morning, eleven o'clock,
be assigned for the choice of a Muster-Master, in the room
of General Whitcomb, who declines that trust.

Ordered, That Major Bliss, Deacon Whitney, and Col-
onel Patterson, be a Committee to give notice to such
Members of this Congress as are now at Cambridge and
Roxbury, and other absent Members whom they can noti-
fy, that a matter of the greatest importance is to be taken
into consideration at three o'clock to-morrow afternoon,
and to direct their attendance at that time.

The Committee who were appointed to bring in a Re-
solve recommending the disarming certain persons in the
Colony, reported ; which Report was read, amended, and
accepted, and is as follows, viz :

Whereas, there are divers persons now in this Colony, who
have, by their conduct, discovered themselves to be ene-
mies to the rights of mankind, and the interest of America :
and whereas, our very peculiar situation renders it abso-
lutely necessary, not only to discriminate them from those
who have shewn a disposition to be friendly to their Coun-
try, but also to put it out of their power to join with the
open and avowed enemies of America, in their endeavours
to subjugate their countrymen to the full operations of the
tj rannical system of the British Administration, and the
ruin and destruction concerted by the British Parliament
against these Colonies: therefore,

Resolved, That it be and hereby is recommended to
the several Committees of Correspondence in the several
Towns and Districts where such Committees reside, and
to the Selectmen of such Towns and Districts as have not
appointed them, to inquire into the principles and conduct of
such suspected persons ; and that they cause all such to be
disarmed, who do not give them full and ample assurances,
in which they can with safety confide, of their readiness to
join their countrymen on all occasions in defence of the
rights and liberties of America ; and likewise that they take
effectual steps to put it out of the power of such persons
to obstruct, by any means whatever, the measures which
shall be taken for the common defence ; and it is also here-
by recommended to the good people of this Colony, that
they take effectual care to secure obedience to the several
Resolves of Congress for the regulation of the Militia, and
cause a due regard to be paid to the orders of the several
Military Officers who have been elected by the suffrages
of the several Companies and Regiments, agreeably to the
Resolves of Congress.

Ordered, That Major Fuller, Doctor Taylor and Mr.
WeisUr, be a Committee to get the Resolve last men-
tioned, printed and dispersed through the several Towns
and Districts in this Colony.

Ordered, That the Committee who were appointed to
take into consideration the subject-matter of the Letter
from General Ward, now send a written Message (by the
.Messenger in waiting) to the General, informing him, that
they are considering the same, and will make report as soon
as possible.

Ordered, That said Committee sit forthwith.
Ordered, That Mr. Fisher be added to said Commit-
tee, in the room of Mr. Bliss, who is going to Cambridge
on other business of the Congress.

Ordered, That Mr. Lothroj), Doctor Taylor and Mr.
Webster, be a Committee to bring in a Resolve, recom-
mending to the inhabitants of this Province, to save their
Straw.

Ordered, That Colonel Mosely. Esquire Davis, Colonel
Walker, Deacon Hovey, Mr. Lewis, Captain McCobb, and
Major Smith, be a Committee to confer with the Com-
mittee of Safety with respect to settling the appointment
of Field-Officers, and to sit forthwith.

Mr. Gerry (by leave of Congress) brought in a Resolve,

empowering the Committee of Supplies to furnish Com-
missaries with necessaries for the Army, Lc. ; which was
recommitted.

The Committee appointed to consider the Letter from
General Ward, reported an Answer thereto, which was
amended and accepted, and is as follows :

"In ConjJTBM, Watertown, May 8, I'i'iJ.

"Sir: This Congress received your letter of this da)
and the complaint enclosed, informing, that several per-
sons, falsely pretending to have your order to search lor
fire-arms, have committed robbery on private proper!).
We have taken the matter seriously into consideration, and
are of opinion, that such criminals ought to meet with con-
dign punishment.

" The persons suspected to be the offenders are, one
Saunders, Samuel Mallows, Jacob Whittemore, Edward
Bugby, and Ebcnezcr Smith, all of Roxbury, with two
other persons, unknown ; therefore, Sir, you are directed to
apprehend the abovesaid persons, by a number of men
under your command, raid cause them to be carried before
the Committee of Safety, who are hereby empowered and
directed to examine them, touching their offence, and search
for, and, if possible, to find the goods, and direct that they
are immediately replaced from whence they were taken.

" And if on examination the said persons are found
guilty of the said robbery, the Committee of Safety are
hereby directed to imprison them till the further order of
Congress."

Ordered, That the Committee just now appointed, to
confer with the Committee of Safety respecting the appoint-
ment of Field-Officers, be instructed to inquire into the
state of the Army at Cambridge and Roxbury; and, if
they find the numbers reduced, as is reported to this Con-
gress, that they advise the Committee of Safety to send out
immediately for re-enforcements.

Resolved, That the consideration of the expediency of
assuming Government, which was to have been entered
upon to-morrow afternoon, be postponed to Friday nex:,
at three o'clock, P. M. ; and that the Committee who
were just now appointed to confer with the Committee of
Safety, be directed to give notice hereof to the several
Members of this Congress, who are now at Cambridge and
Roxbury.

Adjourned to nine o'clock to-morrow morning.

Tuesday, May 9, 1775, A. M.
Resolved, That the Receiver-General be, and he is here-
by directed to give publick notice of the Resolve lately
passed by this Congress, for borrowing Money on the
credit of the Colony, and assign certain time and place
when he will attend that business.

The Congress granted permission to Colonel Trumbull
to have a copy of the Resolve of this Congress relative to
the inhabitants moving out of Boston.

Henry Gardner, Esq., Receiver-General, requested that
this Congress would excuse him from serving any longer in
that office.

The consideration thereof was ordered to subside for the
present.

Mr. Gerry brought in again a Resolve respecting the
supply of the Soldiers ; which was accepted, and is as fol-
lows, viz :

Whereas, it hath frequently happened that Sutlers, whilst
permitted to supply Soldiers in the service of this Colony,
have vended their goods at extravagant rates, and thereby,
in a great measure, deprived the families of such Soldiers
of the benefit of their wages :

Therefore, Resolved, That the Committee of Supplies
be, and they hereby are directed and empowered to pui-
chase and supply the Commissary for the time being, with
such Goods, Wares, and Merchandise as they shall at any
time judge necessary for supplying the Colony Force-,
and to draw on the publick Treasury therefor. And the
Commissary aforesaid, as also his Deputies, who shall be
accountable to him, are hereby directed and empowered to
supply, at the first cost, the soldiers who shall belong to the
Regiments in which they shall be stationed, with such arti-
cles as their respective Captains shall at any time order ,
and to keep and render to the Captains aforesaid, true and

795

MASSACHUSETTS PROVINCIAL CONGRESS, MAY, 1775.

796

exact accounts thereof at any time before the making up of
the Muster Rolls : anil the said Captains are hereby direct-
ed to give orders forsucli articles only as they judge a
sary (or their respective soldiers, not exceeding one ball ol
the wages that shall at any time he due to them, and to
cause the same to be deducted from their wages on making
up the muster rolls.

Ordered, That Doctor Church, the President, Colonel
Deiter, Colonel liitnoi, and Mr. Gary, be a Committee
to prepare a spirited application to General Gage, respect-
ing his treatment of the inhabitants of Boston.

Ordered, That the same gentlemen be a Committee to
consider what provision shall be made for furnishing such
enlisted Soldiers as are unprovided with Fire-Arms, with
such effective Fire-Arms as are necessary for them to carry
into the field.

Ordered, That Colonel Barrett, Doctor Holten, and
Colonel Danielson, be a Committee to take into consider-
ation a printed false account of the late excursion of the
King's Troops to Concord.

The Order of the Day was moved for.

Ordered, That Colonel Farley, Doctor Holten, and Col-
onel Daniehon, be a Committee to sort and count the
votes for a Muster-Master.

The Committee appointed to sort and count the votes
for a Muster-Master, in the room of Colonel John Whit-
comb, who declined accepting that trust, reported that Col-
onel Asa Whitcomb was chosen.

A motion was made and seconded, that a Committee be
appointed to take into consideration, the expediency of
restraining the people of this Colony from supplying the
inhabitants of Boston with Provisions.

After debate, the question was put, and it passed in the
negative.

Adjourned to three o'clock, P. M.

Afternoon.

On a motion made, that the Resolve passed yesterday,
assigning Friday next, three o'clock, P. M., for the con-
sideration of the expediency of assuming Government, be
reconsidered, and that an earlier day be assigned for that
purpose :

The question was put, and it passed in the negative.

Ordered, That Mr. Pickering be added to the Com-
mittee appointed to take into consideration an equal repre-
sentation of this Colony, in the room of Mr. Rawson,
absent.

Ordered, That Mr. Satvyer, Colonel Foster and Mr.
Dix, be a Committee to take into consideration the expe-
diency of establishing Post-Offices and Riders in this Col-
ony.

The Committee who were appointed to prepare a Re-
monstrance to General Gage, reported. The Report was
ordered to lie on the table until the further orders of this
Congress.

The same Committee, agreeably to their appointment,
reported a Resolve relative to furnishing those enlisted
Soldiers with Fire-Arms who are unequipped therewith ;
which, after debate, was ordered to be recommitted.

Ordered, That Captain Stone, of Framingham, be added
to the Committee who was appointed to consider of some
measures to be taken with respect to the County Records,
in the room of Mr. Brown, of Abington, now absent.

The Committee appointed to consider the expediency
of establishing Post-Offices and Riders, in this Colony,
reported ; whereupon,

Resolved, That the further consideration thereof be
referred till to-morrow morning, ten o'clock.

The Committee appointed to consider the false account
of the late excursion of the King's Troops, reported ;
which Report being read, amended, and completed, was
accepted, and is as follows, viz :

Whereas, a printed paper, said to be a circumstantial
account of an attack which happened on the 19th of April,
177."), on His Majesty's Troops, by a number of the peo-
ple of the Province of the Massachusetts-Bay, has been
read in this Congress ; which contains, among many false-
hoods, the following paragraph, viz:

" When Captain Parsons returned with the three Com-
panies over the bridge, [at Concord,] they observed three

soldiers on the ground, one of them scalped, his head much
mangled, and his cars cut oft', though not quite dead."

Resolved, That Colonel Barrett be, and hereby is direct-
ed to make strict inquiry of the persons who saw the three
soldiers aforementioned lying at the said bridge, and also
of those who buried them, and take their depositions, that
so the truth or falsity of the aforesaid assertion may be as-
certained.

The Committee appointed to consider of some method
for furnishing those Soldiers with Fire-Arms who are not
therewith equipped, again reported.

The Report was read, and is as follows, viz:

Whereas, a few of the inhabitants of this Colony, who
are enlisted into its service, are destitute of Fire-Arms anil
Bayonets, and other accoutrements: Therefore,

Resolved, That the Selectmen of the several Towns and
Districts in this Colony be, and hereby are directed and
empowered to examine into the state of the equipment of
such inhabitants of their respective Towns and Districts
as are, or may be enlisted into the service of this Colony ;
and where any are deficient in Arms or Accoutrements as
aforesaid, it is recommended to the Selectmen to supply
them out of the Town Stock ; and in case of a deficiency
there, to apply to such inhabitants of their respective
Towns and Districts, as in their opinions can best spare
their Arms or Accoutrements, and to borrow, or purchase
the same for the use of said inhabitants so enlisted : and
the Selectmen are also directed to take a bill from such
persons as shall sell their Arms and Accoutrements in the
name of this Colony, and receipts from the soldiers to
whom they shall cause them to be delivered, and render the
same to the Committee of Supplies for this Colony : and
each soldier so supplied, shall pay for the use of such Arms
and Accoutrements, out of his wages, the sum of six shil-
lings; and if he does not return the said Arms and Accou-
trements, there shall be deducted from his wages, at the
time of making up the muster-roll, the full value of said
Arms and Accoutrements, as appraised by the Selectmen,
at the time of borrowing or purchasing the same. And it
is strongly recommended to such inhabitants of the Colony
as the Selectmen as aforesaid shall apply to for Arms and
Accoutrements, that they supply the Colony with the same.

And as many Arms in this Colony which are now use-
less may, by small repairs, be rendered fit for service,

Resolved, That a sufficient number of Armourers, not
exceeding twenty, be appointed by the Committee of Safet) ,
to mend and repair such Arms as shall be brought to them
by the Soldiers enlisted into the Massachusetts Army.

Ordered, That Mr. Webster, Major Fuller, and Mr.
Batchelder, be a Committee to get this Resolve publish-
ed and dispersed.

Adjourned till to-morrow morning, nine o'clock.

Wednesday, May 10, 1775.

Ordered, That the Committee appointed to confer with
the Committee of Safety upon the general state of the
Army, be directed particularly to confer with them on the
propriety of removing the whole or part of the Cannon and
Stores now at Cambridge, further back into the country.

Resolved, That the General Officers be, and are hereby
directed, forthwith, to call in all the Soldiers who are al-
ready enlisted in the service of this Colony ; and that they
give immediate orders to all the enlisted Soldiers, and all
others now in the Camp at Cambridge and Roxbury, that
they do not depart till the further orders of this Congress.

A Petition from the Committees of Correspondence and
the Committees of Inspection for the Town of Pownal-
borough, was preferred by Joseph Pinkham.

Ordered, That this Petition lie on the table.

Ordered, That the Resolve passed by this Congress
the 23d ultimo, recommending to the Selectmen of the
several Towns in this Colony to furnish each Non-com-
missioned Officer and Private' Soldier with a Blanket, be
fairly copied by the Secretary, and printed in a handbill,
and sent to the Selectmen of the several Towns and Dis-
tricts in the Colony.

Ordered, That the Petition from Pownalborough just
now read, be delivered to Mr. Joseph Pinkham, agreeably
to his request.

797

MASSACHUSETTS PROVINCIAL CONGRESS, MAY, 1775.

798

Ordered, That Mr. Lothrop, Doctor Taylor, and Doc-
tor Holten, be a Committee to take into consideration the
proceedings of the Town of Bristol, presented to this
Congress by Mr. Thomas Bracket, in behalf of said Town.

The Committee appointed to bring in a Resolve, recom-
mending to the inhabitants of this Colony to save their
Straw, reported ; which Report was read and accepted, and
ordered to be copied and sent to the Printer of the Cam-
bridge Newspaper, and to the Printer of the Worcester
Newspaper for publication, and is as follows, viz:

Whereas, it will be indispensably necessary that large
quantities of Straw be provided for the use of the Army
now forming for the defence and protection of this Colony :
therefore,

Resolved, And it is hereby strongly recommended to all
such inhabitants of this Colony as have or may have of
that article by them, that (as they regard the lives and
health of their brethren, who engage in the service above-
said) they take immediate care the same be preserved for
the purpose above mentioned.

Ordered, That Captain Foster, Mr. Lothrop, and Mr.
Pickering, be a Committee to transcribe the Depositions
taken by a Committee of this Congress, of the proceedings
of the Troops, under command of General Gage, the 19th
ultimo, and that they transmit them to Mr. Hall, at Cam-
bridge, to be published in a pamphlet, and that said Com-
mittee agree with him for the expense of publication.

Ordered, That Colonel Barrett attend the business to
which he was yesterday appointed, of inquiring into the
truth or falsity of a paragraph taken from a printed account
of the action of the King's Troops on the 19th ultimo.

The Committee appointed to consider some measures
for securing the County Records, reported. The Report
was read and accepted, and is as follows, viz :

Resolved, That the Committee appointed for each
County, on the 12th of April last, be instructed to take
proper measures for securing the Records of the several
Counties, where they are exposed.

The Order of the Day was moved for.

The Committee appointed to consider of the expediency
of establishing Post-Offices, &c, reported.

The Report was recommitted, for the purpose of set-
tling the rates of Postage, and taking into consideration
some method of establishing Post-Offices. Mr. Hall, of
Medford, and Mr. Cross, were added to the Committee ;
also, Mr. Batchelder, in the room of Mr. Dix.

Resolved, That the Resolve for accepting the establish-
ment for the Train, which passed this Congress the 6th
instant, be reconsidered ; and that Colonel Mandcll, Cap-
tain Baker, Doctor Taylor, Major Perley, and Colonel
Coffin, be a Committee to take into consideration the pro-
priety of establishing a Regiment of the Train ; and that
they sit forthwith.

Ordered, That Colonel Warren, Mr. Gerry, and Col-
onel Foster, be a Committee to take into consideration a
Resolve of the Committee of Safety, recommending to this
Congress to establish a Court of Inquiry.

Ordered, That Colonel Richard Gridley be and hereby
is directed forthwith to recommend to the Committee of
Safety, for Officers of the Train of Artillery, such persons
;is he thinks are qualified for that appointment.

On a complaint of the Selectmen of the Town of Wor-
cester, against Samuel Pain and William Campbell, prison-
ers from that Town ; Ordered, That said Prisoners be
committed to the care of Captain Brown, or such persons
as he shall appoint, to be kept in custody till the further
orders of this Congress.

Ordered, That the Committee appointed to transcribe the
Depositions of the late proceedings of the King's Troops, be
directed to prepare a Narrative thereof, as an introduction
to said Depositions; which are ordered to be printed.

Adjourned to three o'clock, P. M.

Afternoon.
Ordered, That Mr. Gill, Colonel Warren, Colonel
Gerrish, Mr. Dix, and Doctor Perkins, be a Committee
to inquire into the complaint made by the Selectmen of the
Town of Worcester against Samuel Pain and William
Campbell, and report to this Congress.

The consideration of the Remonstrance to General Gage
was resumed, and the same was accepted, and ordered to
be authenticated, and sent forward.

It is as follows, viz:

"In Provincial Congress, Watertown, May 10, 17T5.

" To his Excellency General Gage :

"Sir: This Congress have received frequent intelli-
gence, that their brethren, the inhabitants of the Town of
Boston, have to contend, in their removal therefrom, with
numerous delays and embarrassments, contrary to the sti-
pulation proposed and agreed to between your Excellency
and the Selectmen of that Town.

" We think it our duty to remonstrate to your Excellen-
cy, that from the papers communicated to us by the said
Selectmen, it appeared, that the inhabitants were pro-
mised, upon surrendering their arms, that they should be
permitted to leave the Town, and carry with them their
effects. The condition was immediately complied with on
the part of the people; since which, though a number of days
have elapsed, but a very small proportion of the inhabitants
have been allowed to take the benefit of your covenant.

" We would not affront your Excellency by the most
distant insinuation, that you intended to deceive and dis-
arm the people by a cruel act of perfidy. A regard to
your own character, as well as the fatal consequences
which will necessarily result from the violation of your
solemn treaties, must be sufficient reasons to deter a gen-
tleman of your rank and station from so injurious a design.
But your Excellency must be sensible, that a delay of jus-
tice is a denial of it, and extremely oppressive to the peo-
ple now held in duress.

" This Congress, though not the original party in the
treaty, have taken every step in their power to facilitate
the measure; and, in the whole of their conduct, have
endeavoured to evidence a disposition to act upon the prin-
ciples of humanity and good faith ; and still indulge hopes,
that the confidence of the inhabitants of Boston in your
Excellency's honour and faithfulness, is not misplaced, and
that, notwithstanding any disagreeable occurrences, natu-
rally resulting from the confused state of the Colony, which
this Congress have discountenanced, and endeavoured to
rectify, your Excellency will no longer suffer your treaty
with a distressed people, who ought by no means to be
effected thereby, to be further violated."

The Committee appointed to take into consideration
the expediency of establishing a Regiment of the Train,
reported. Part of the Establishment reported, was ac-
cepted ; the consideration of the residue was referred to a
future time.

Resolved, That the Resolve, which this Congress pass-
ed at Concord, the 13th ultimo, directing the Committee of
Safety to engage a suitable number of persons for forming
six Companies of the Train, be so far reconsidered, as that
it be, and hereby is Resolved, That the Committee of Safety
be directed to engage a suitable number of persons, and
form ten Companies of the Train for the artillery already
provided by this Colony, to enter immediately on constant
discipline, and be in readiness to enter the service of the
Colony ; and that said Committee be, and they are hereby
empowered to draw on the publick Treasury, for said Com-
panies, a suitable consideration for their services.

The Petition of Timothy Langdon was read, and order-
ed to lie on the table till some of the eastern Members
should be present.

Ordered, That the Secretary be directed, pursuant to a
request of the Committee of Safety, to furnish them with
copies of all such Resolves as have passed the Congress,
in any ways relative to the duty enjoined them.

The Secretary pro tempore represented to the Congress,
that the multiplicity of the business of his office was such,
as made it necessary that he should have some assistance.
Whereupon,

Ordered, That Captain Stone, of Oakham, assist him
in that service.

The Committee appointed to inquire into the state of the
Army, and to settle the appointment of the Field-Officers,
reported a Letter from Head-Quarters.

The Committee appointed to inquire into the complaint
of the Selectmen of the Town of Worcester against Sam-
uel Pain and IVilliam Campbell, reported; which Report

799

MASSACHUSETTS PROVINCIAL CONGRESS, MAY, 1775.

800

was accepted, and ordered to be transmitted and delivered
to Captain Jonas Hubbard and Mr. Edward Crafts, who
exhibited the above complaint, together with a printed
Resolve of Congress, lately passed, for disarming the dis-
affected inhabitants of the Colony.

The Report is as follows, viz :

" The Committee appointed to hear the complaints ex-
hibited by the Selectmen of Worcester against William
Campbell and Samuel I'ain, have attended that service ;
heard the parties, and beg leave to report : That we find
the charges against them proved by depositions, and con-
ceded by them ; and that William Campbell has been guilty
of leaving the Town of Worcester without a permit from
the Selectmen, contrary to his own engagements.

And that the said Samuel Pain has, in one instance,
propagated reports with regard to our Massachusetts sol-
diers' rifling the house of Mr. B radish, instead of the
regular Army ; and that those which were quartered in the
colleges were lousy, and deserted in great numbers; which,
however indiscreet, does not appear to us to be done with
any bad design ; and that he ought to be dismissed imme-
diately ; and that the said Campbell may be returned to the
Town of Worcester, to be dealt with by the Committee of
Correspondence of that Town, agreeably to a Resolve of
this Congress, passed the 8th instant. The matter, how-
ever, we think, not important enough to be brought before
;iiis Congress."

The consideration of the Petition of Timothy Langdon
was again resumed, and ordered to lie on the table.

Ordered, That Captain McCobb, Mr. Lewis, and Doc-
tor Perkins, be a Committee to take into consideration the
several applications made to this Congress from the eastern
parts of the Province, for Arms and Ammunition.

Adjourned until to-morrow morning, eight o'clock.

Thursday, May 11, 1775, A. M.

The Petition of James Cargill, of New-Castle, com-
mitted to the Committee who were appointed to consider
the applications to this Congress for Ammunition, &tc.

The Committee appointed to take into consideration the
several applications to this Congress for a supply of Ammu-
nition, &.c, reported. The Report was recommitted, and
the Committee directed to inspect the list of Returns of the
Town's stock of Powder, he, that it may be known whe-
ther this Congress can, with prudence, recommend to any
Town which may be stocked therewith, to supply those
Towns which are destitute.

Adjourned to twelve o'clock, this day.

Noon.

Congress met agreeably to adjournment.

The Committee appointed to consider the several appli-
cations made to this Congress for Ammunition, and to
inspect the list of Returns, See. reported. The Report
was read and accepted, and is as follows, viz:

Whereas, the Towns of Falmouth and Arundel, and the
District of Cape Elizabeth, being seaport places, and
much exposed to the rage of our enemies, and not having
;i sufficient quanity of Gunpowder to defend themselves
in case of any long attack ; and the Town of Andovcr
being well stocked with Gunpowder, and not so much ex-
posed : therefore,

Resolved, And it is hereby recommended to the Select-
men of the Town of And over, that they deliver to Mr.
Joseph McLcllan, of Falmouth, two half barrels of Gun-
powder for the use of the Town of Falmouth ; also, de-
liver to Mr. Zebulon Trickey, of Cape Elizabeth, one half
barrel of Gunpowder for the use of said Cape Elizabeth;
also, deliver to Mr. John Hovey, of Arundel, two half
barrels of Gunpowder for the use of said Arundel ; they
paying them for said Powder, which shall be replaced, if
needed, as soon as the Colony Magazine can be supplied.

Whereas, the Towns of Brunswick, Pownalborough,
Bristol, and Newcastle, being seaport places, in the east-
ern parts of this Colony, and much exposed to the rage
and incursions of our unnatural enemies, and not having a
sufficient quantity of Gunpowder to defend themselves, in
case of any attack ; and the Towns of Marlborough, Sud-
bury, and Framingham, being well stocked with Gunpow-
der, and not so much exposed : therefore,

Resolved, And it is hereby recommended to the Select-
men of the above mentioned several Towns, that they de-
liver, as follows, viz : The Selectmen of Sudbury, one
half barrel of Gunpowder to Nathaniel Larrabee, for the
use of Brunswick; the Selectmen of Marlborough, two
half barrels of Gunpowder — one to Joseph Tinkham. for
the use of Pownalborough, the other to Lieutenant John
Farley, for the use of Newcastle; the Selectmen of
Framingham, one half barrel of Gunpowder to Thomas
Bracket, for the use of Bristol; they paying them for said
Powder, which shall be replaced, if needed, as soon as the
Colony Magazine can be supplied.

Ordered, That each person, now in waiting, who has
made application to this Congress for Powder, be served
with a copy thereof.

Information being made to this Congress, that two Men-
of-War, with Troops, had sailed from Boston to New-
York, with a design, as it is supposed, of frustrating a de-
sign of the inhabitants of that Colony and Connecticut, to
secure the Arms and Ammunition now in the fort at New*
York :

Ordered, That Mr. Gerry, Colonel Warren, and Col.
Lincoln, be a Committee to prepare a Letter to the Com-
mittee of Correspondence of New-York, informing them of
the sailing of said Men-of-War, and inserting such articles
therein, as will put the people upon their guard against
any attempt that may be made against them by said Ships.

Ordered, That this Committee prepare said Letter, and
forward it forthwith, without wailing to report to this Con-
gress; said Committee laying before this Congress, as soon
as may be, a copy of said Letter.

Adjourned to four o'clock, P. M.

Afternoon.

Met at four o'clock, according to adjournment, and ad-
journed to eight o'clock to-morrow morning.

Friday, May 12, 1775.

Moved, That a Committee be appointed, to consider the
expediency of recommending to the Selectmen of the
several Towns in the Colony, to furnish such as may enlist
in their respective Towns with necessaries for their march
to Head-Quarters.

The question was put, and it passed in the negative.

Ordered, That Captain Sto?ie, Colonel Warren, and
Mr. Sullivan, be a Committee to take into consideration
an extract of a Letter from the Honourable Enoch Free-
man, Esquire, of Falmouth, to Samuel Freeman.

Ordered, That Captain Stone, Colonel Warren, and
Mr. Sullivan, above mentioned, be a Committee to take
into consideration the expediency of taking measures for
raising a company or two of Indians.

Resolved, That to-morrow morning, at ten o'clock, be.
and is now assigned for the purpose of choosing some per-
son to preach a sermon to the Congress on the 31st May
instant.

Resolved, That all persons who have the care of any
Prisoners detained at Concord, Lexington, or elsewhere,
be and hereby are directed to give the Rev. Mr. Gordon
free access to them, whenever he shall desire it ; and it is
recommended to all civil Magistrates and others, to be aid-
ing and assisting him in examining and taking Depositions
of them and others, without exception.

Ordered, That the establishment for a Train of Artillery
be recommitted.

Ordered, That Mr. Sullivan be added to the Commit-
tee appointed for revising the commissions of the Commit-
tee of Safety and Committee of Supplies, in the room of
Doctor Molten, absent.

Resolved, That the several Committees be enjoined to
sit, and that this Congress be adjourned to this afternoon,
three o'clock.

Afternoon.

The Committee appointed to consider measures for es-
tablishing Post-Ofrices and Post-Riders, reported. After
some debate, the matter was ordered to subside for the pre-
sent.

The Order of the Day was moved for.

The absent Members were ordered to be called in.

801

MASSACHUSETTS PROVINCIAL CONGRESS, MAY, 177C

802

It was then moved, that the sense of the Congress be
taken on this question, viz : Whether there is now existing
in this Colony a necessity of taking up and exercising the
powers of Civil Government in all its parts?
After some debate, it was

Resolved, That this Congress will now form itself into
a Committee of the Whole House, for consideration of the
question in debate.

The Committee having considered thereon, the Presi-
dent, on a motion made, resumed the chair.

The Committee then, by the Honourable Joseph Warren,
Esquire, their chairman, reported: "That a Committee
be raised, for the purpose of reporting to the Congress an
application to the Continental Congress, for obtaining their
recommendation for this Colony to take up and exercise
Civil Government as soon as may be, and that the Com-
mittee be directed to ground the application on the neces-
sity of the case ;" which Report being read, was accepted,
by a very large majority: Whereupon,
' Ordered, That the President, Doctor Church, Mr.
Gerry, Colonel Warren, Mr. Sullivan, Colonel Daniel-
son, and Colonel Lincoln, be a Committee to prepare an
application agreeable to said Report.

A Letter from Colonel Quincy, of Brainlree, to the
President, was read : Whereupon,

Resolved, That General Ward be, and hereby is direct-
ed to order four respectable Officers to escort the President
of this Congress to Colonel Qjuincy, at Braintrec, to-mor-
row morning.

Ordered, That Major Fuller, Mr. Goodwin, and Dea-
con Whitney, be a Committee to estimate the damages
done at Concord, Lexington, and Cambridge, by the
King's Troops on the 19th ultimo, so far as respects pri-
vate property only.

Ordered, That Mr. Sullivan, Doctor Taylor, and Mr.
Leu/is, be a Committee to take into consideration a Letter
from the Honourable Enoch Freeman, Esquire, dated May
10, 1775, to his son, Mr. Samuel Freeman.

Resolved, That the further consideration of the Report
of the Committee who were appointed to bring in a Re-
solve respecting the establishment of Post-Offices and Post-
Riders, be resumed to-morrow morning, nine o'clock.

Resolved, That the Establishment for a Train of Artil-
lery, which has been accepted by this Congress, be re-
considered, and that the following Report for such an
establishment be accepted, viz:

Resolved, That the following Establishment be made for
ten Companies of Matrosses :

Captain, ... £6 10s, Od. per montlu

Captain-Lieutenant, - - 5 10 0 "

First-Lieutenant, - - 4 10 0 "

Two Second-Lieutenants, each 3 12 0 "

Sergeants, each - - 2 10 0 "

Corporals, each - - 2 06 0 "

Six Bombardiers, each - 2 04 6 "

Six Gunners, each - - 2 04 0 "

Thirty-two Matrosses, each 2 03 0 "

Adjourned till to-morrow morning, eight o'clock.

Saturday, May 13, 1775.

Met according to adjournment.

The Petition of the Selectmen of the Town of Top-
sham, in the County of Lincoln, respecting their being
supplied with Powder, was read ; and

Ordered, That the same be committed to Captain
McCobb, Mr. Lewis, and Doctor Taylor.

The Order of the Day, respecting the further consider-
ation of the Report of the Committee appointed to bring
in a Resolve respecting the establishing Post-Offices, &cc,
was taken up, and the blanks for Postmasters being filled
up, ordered to subside till the Report on the Letter from
the Honourable Enoch Freeman, Esquire, was read.

The Committee appointed to take into consideration a
Letter from the Hon. Enoch Freeman, Esquire, dated
May 10th, reported; and, after a long debate thereon, was
ordered to be recommitted for amendment.

Moved, That a Committee be appointed to count and
sort the votes for a Committee to be chosen, by ballot, to
appoint Post-Riders. Time assigned for that purpose,
three o'clock, P. M.

Fourth Series. — Vol. ii.

The Order of the Day was moved for, to choose a gen-
tleman to preach the sermon on the 31st May.

Moved, That a Committee be chosen to count and sort
the votes. Colonel Jf'arrui, Captain Jennison, and Major
Bliss, were chosen.

The Committee chosen to count and sort the votes, re-
ported that the Rev. Dr. Langdon was chosen.

Moved, That a Committee of three persons be appoint-
ed, to wait on the Rev. Dr. Langdon, and acquaint him
that this Congress have made choice of him to preach a
sermon to the Congress of this Colony on the 31st instant,
and desire his compliance therewith. Colonel Gerrish,
Mr. Fitts, and Doctor Sawyer, were chosen accordingly.

The Committee appointed to prepare a Resolve, respect-
ing the taking a third set of the Depositions relative to the
battle of Lexington, reported ; which Report was accept-
ed, and is as follows, viz:

Resolved, That William Read, William Sticknty,
Thaddeus Mason, Jonathan Hastings, Jonathan Cummins,
Josiah Johnson, Duncan Ingraham, Jonas Dix, and Si-
meon Tufts, Esquires, be, and they hereby are required to
take a third set of the Depositions relative to the battle of
Lexington, similar to the two sets already by them taken ;
and they are empowered to summon, or cause to be sum-
moned, such inhabitants of this Colony as they shall think
proper, to attend them at any time and place in this coun-
try which they shall direct, for the purposes mentioned;
and all such persons as shall be summoned by the Justices
aforesaid, are hereby directed punctually to obey their
summons.

Ordered, That Mr. Pitts, Mr. Gill, and Mr. Sawyer,
be a Committee to take into consideration a Letter from
Mr. John Peck, respecting his confinement, to the Select-
men of Boston, and the said Selectmen's Letter to this
Congress on the same subject.

The Committee reported their amendment of the Re-
port on the Honourable Enoch Freeman's Letter. Referred
to the afternoon.

Adjourned to three o'clock, P. M.

Afternoon .

Met according to adjournment.

The Report of the Committee respecting the Honour-
able Enoch Freeman, Esquire's Letter, was taken up,
amended, and accepted.

The Committee appointed to consider the Petition of
the Selectmen of the Town of Topsham, reported. The
Report was accepted, and is as follows, viz:

Whereas, the Town of Topsham, being a seaport place,
in the eastern part of the Colony, and much exposed to the
rage and incursions of our unnatural enemies, and not hav-
ing a sufficient quantity of Gunpowder to defend them-
selves in case of an attack, and the Town of Wrentham
being well stocked with that article : therefore,

Resolved, That it be and hereby is recommended to the
Selectmen of the above-said Town of Wrentham, to deli-
ver one half barrel of Gunpowder to Mr. Prince Rose, for
the use of the Town of Topsham, he paying them for said
Powder, which shall be replaced, if needed, as soon as the
Colony Magazine can be supplied.

Resolved, That the Order of the Day, on the subject of
Post-Riders, be now taken up; when Captain Jonathan
Brown, Jonas Dix, Esq., and Deacon Cheever, were chosen
a Committee to count and sort the votes for a Committee to
establish Post-Riders ; which Committee was chosen, and
the blanks in the Resolve, respecting Post-Offices, being
filled up with said Committee's names, the Resolve was
accepted, and is as follows, viz :

Resolved, As the opinion of this Congress, that Post-
Riders be immediately established, to go from Cambridge,
and to ride the following roads, viz : To Georgetown, in
the County of Lincoln; to Haverhill; to Providence ; to
Woodstock, by Worcester; and from Worcester to Great
Barrington, by Springfield; and to Falmouth, in the
County of Barnstable. And that Post-Offices be kept
as followeth, viz: one at Cambridge; one at Salem; one
at Ipswich; one at Haverhill; one at Newburyport; one
at Kennebunk, or Welles ; one at Sandtvich ; one at Fal-
mouth, in the County of Cumberland; one at Georgetown.
County of Lincoln; one at Worcester; one at Spring-

51

803

MASSACHUSETTS PROVINCIAL CONGRESS, MAY, 1775.

804

field; one at Great Barrington ; one at Plymouth; and
one at Falmouth, in the County of Barnstable.

And it is further resolved, That Mr. James Winlhrop
be appointed Postmaster for the Town of Cambridge ; Mr.
Edward Morris, for Salem ; Mr. James Foster, for Ips-
wich ; Mr. Simeon Grcenough, for Haverhill; Mr. Bulk-
Icy Emerson, (or Netcburyport ; Captain Nathaniel Kim-
ball, for Kcnnebunk ; Mr. Samuel Freeman, for Falmouth,
in Cumberland; Mr. Jo /in IVood, for Georgetown; Mr.
Isaiah Thomas, for Worcester; Mr. Motet Church, for
Springfield ; Doctor William IV luting, for GVcnf 7J«r-
rington; Mr. Joseph Nye, third, for Sandwich; llilliain,
Watson, Esquire, for Plymouth; and Mr. Moses Swift,
for Falmouth, in Barnstable.

And that Captain Jonathan Brown, Jonas Dix, Esq.,
and David Cheever, Esquire, be a Committee to give
directions for the setting off and returning of the Posts in
their several routes, and to appoint the number of Riders,
and to agree with them. And to agree also with the Post-
masters for their services. And that the Rates of and Du-
ties for Postage of Letters, &.c, be as follows, viz :
For any distance not exceeding - - 60 miles, 0*. 5£c/.
Upwardsof 60 miles, and not exceeding 100 "08
Upwards 100 " " " 200 " 0 1 0 J

Upwards 200 " " " 300 " 1 1

Upwards 300 " " " 400 " 1 4

Upwards 400 " " " 500 " 1 6£

Upwards 500 " " " 600 " 1 9

Upwards 600 " " " 700 "20

Upwards 700 " " " 800 " 2 2J

U p wards 800 " « " 900 " 2 5

Upwards 900 " " " 1,000 "28

The above rates to be paid in lawful money of this
Colony.

The above Rates are for the Postage of a Single Letter.
They are to be doubled for all Double Letters ; trebled
for all Treble Letters ; and for every ounce weight four
times as much to be charged as for a Single Letter ; and
that the Postmasters be accountable to the aforesaid Com-
mittee for what they shall receive. And that the forego-
ing Rules and Orders continue until the Continental Con-
gress, or the Congress, or future House of Representatives
of this Colony, shall make some further order relative to
the same.

The Committee appointed to draw a Resolve respecting
a Court of Inquiry, reported ; and,

Ordered, That Monday, at three o'clock in the after-
noon, be assigned for taking the same into consideration.

Adjourned till to-morrow morning, eight o'clock.

Sunday, May 14, 1775.

Met, and adjourned to twelve o'clock.

At twelve o'clock met, and adjourned to three o'clock.

At three o'clock met again.

Moved, That a Committee be appointed to apply to the
Committee of Safety for a list of such persons as they
have given Listing Orders to, that this Congress may com-
mission such as they think proper without delay.

Resolved, That the further consideration of this matter
be referred until to-morrow morning.

Adjourned till to-morrow morning, nine o'clock.

Monday, May 15, 1775, A. M.

Resolved, That four o'clock, in the afternoon of this
day, be assigned for making choice of two persons, Mem-
bers of this Congress, to attend the Provincial Congress
of New-Hampshire, on Wednesda-y next.

The Order of the Day was moved for, and read.

Resolved, That David Cheever, Esquire, for reasons
by him offered, be excused from serving in the business to
which he was appointed by a Resolve of this Congress,
passed the twelfth instant, for establishing Post Offices and
Post-Riders ;. and that Mr. William Greenleaf, Joseph
Greenleaf, Esquire, and Mr. John Pitts, be added to the
Committee therein appointed.

Resolved, That five o'clock, this afternoon, be assigned
for the choice of a person to serve on the Committee of
Supplies, in the room of Colonel Lee, deceased.

Ordered, That the Committee Appointed to prepare an
application to the Continental Congress, be directed to

insert a clause therein, desiring that the said Congress
would take some measures for directum and regulating the
American v orces.

The Committee appointed to prepare an Introduction to
the Depositions relating to the late affair at Lexington, re-
ported. The same was recommitted, for the purpose ol
examining it, to find if the Narrative contained in the said
Introduction be supported by the Depositions, and to add
such other Depositions as may be procured.

Ordered, That Mr. Fisher, Colonel Field, and Mr.
Bullen, be a Committee to examine the Letters of Gov-
ernour Hutchinson, lately discovered, and report to this
Congress such Letters and Extracts as they think it will
be proper to publish.

Ordered, That Colonel Warren, Mr. Sawyer, and Ma-
jor Bliss, be a Committee to take into consideration the
subject of a Letter, read in Congress, from IMUiam Wat-
son, Esquire, to Colonel Warren and Mr. Lothrop.

Colonel Barrett, who was appointed to take a Deposi-
tion at Concord, reported ; the Deposition reported was
ordered to be committed to the Committee who were ap-
pointed to prepare an Introduction to the Depositions.

The Committee appointed to take into consideration
Extracts of a Letter from the Honourable Enoch Freeman,
Esquire, reported a Letter to the Eastern Tribes of Indians ;
which was accepted, and ordered to be authenticated, and
sent to Mr. John Lane, to be communicated to them.

The Committee appointed to consider a Letter from
William Watson, Esquire, of Plymouth, reported the fol-
lowing Resolve; which was accepted, and ordered to be
printed, and dispersed to the several Towns in the Colony,
and is as follows, viz :

" Whereas, some of the inhabitants of this Colony, and
most of them such as have been inimical to the Constitu-
tion and interest of the same, are now (after having united
themselves with our enemies in reducing us to the distresses
and difficulties we are labouring under) taking steps to re-
move themselves and effects out of this Colony into the
Government of Nova-Scotia and elsewhere, in order to
avoid their proportion of the burdens necessarily incurred
for our defence : to prevent which, it is

" Resolved, That no person be, from this time, permitted
to move his Goods and Effects out of this Colony, unless
he shall obtain the permission of the Committee of Cor-
respondence of the Town he belongs to, or (if no such Com-
mittee be there appointed) of the Selectmen, or the ma-
jority of them, under their hands, for that purpose, but by
the leave of this or some future Congress. And the seve-
ral Committees of Correspondence, or Selectmen, where
there are no such Committees, are hereby directed to be
very vigilant in observing the motions of all such persons
whom they may have reason to suspect, and to see that
this Resolve be carried into full execution."

Adjourned to three o'clock, P. M.

Afternoon.

The Committee appointed to consider the Extracts of a
Letter from the Honourable Enoch Freeman, Esquire, re-
ported a Resolve respecting an Embassy to Canada; which
being read, and amended, was accepted, (and a copy or-
dered to be authenticated and sent to the Selectmen of
Falmouth,) and is as follows, viz :

"Whereas, it is absolutely necessary for the interest
and safety of this Colony, in its present unhappy situ-
ation, that the most certain intelligence from Canada of
the designs and manoeuvres of the inhabitants of that
Colony should be obtained as speedily as possible : And
whereas, the Selectmen of the Town of Falmouth having
been alarmed by reports, which had prevailed in the eastern
parts of the Colony, that the Canadians would soon attack
them on their frontiers, and thereby bring not only them-
selves, but the whole Colony, into a still more deplorable
situation : and judging it of the utmost importance, that
the truth or falsity of such reports should be known without
delay, have employed Mr. Jabcz Matthews and Mr. David
Dinsmore to go across the woods to Ouebeck, in order
to observe the motions of the people there, and, as far as
possible, to gain a knowledgo of their intentions :

" Therefore, resolved, That this Congress do approve
of the care and attention of the Selectmen of Falmouth to
the general interest of the Colony.

805

MASSACHUSETTS PROVINCIAL CONGRESS, MAY, 1

l to.

806

"And it is hereby recommended to the said Selectmen,
that they transmit the intelligence that they may receive
by them, together with the expenses of the said Embassy,
to this, or some future Congress of this Colony, with all
convenient speed, that the account of their expenses may
be adjusted and allowed out of the Treasury of the Col-
ony."

The Order of the Day was moved for.

The Report of the Committee appointed to bring in a
Resolve for establishing a Court of Inquiry, was read; and
is as follows, viz :

"Whereas, it appears to this Congress that a want of a
due and regular execution of Justice in this Colony has
encouraged divers wicked and disorderly persons not only
to commit outrages and trespasses upon private property
and private persons, but also to make the most daring
attacks upon the Constitution, and to unite in their endea-
vours to disturb the peace and destroy the happiness and
security of their Country: and whereas, this Congress
conceive it to be their indispensable duty to take effectual
measures to restrain all disorders and promote the peace
and happiness of this Colony, by the execution of Justice
in criminal matters : therefore,

" Resolved, That a Court of Inquiry be immediately
erected, consisting of seven persons, to be chosen by
this Congress, whose duty it shall be to hear all com-
plaints against any person or persons for treason against
the Constitution of their Country, or other breaches of the
publick peace and security, and to determine and make
up judgment thereon, according to the laws of this Prov-
ince, and those of reason and equity: no judgments to be
made up or punishments inflicted in consequence of them,
unless in such cases where five of the Judges so appointed
were agreed ; any three of said Judges to have power,
upon complaint made, to cause any person or persons com-
plained of to be imprisoned until the said Court can be
convened to hear the same, or for any further orders of
Congress which may be thought necessary; five of said
Judges to be a quorum, and to be vested with the full
powers of the Court, and to meet and sit in such place or
places as they shall agree on.

" Resolved, That be, and they

hereby are appointed as Judges of the said Court of In-
quiry, to execute the trust agreeably to the above Re-
solve."

After debate, the question was put, whether said Report
be accepted ? And it passed in the negative.

Ordered, That the Committee who reported a Letter
to the Eastern Tribes of Indians, be directed to prepare in-
structions to Mr. John Lane, who is appointed to commu-
nicate the Letter to them, and enlist a Company of them
in the service of the Colony.

Ordered, That Mr. Gill, Mr. Bliss, and Mr. How, be
a Committee to sort and count the votes for two persons,
Members of this Congress, to repair to the Congress of the
Province of New-Hampshire.

The Committee last mentioned, reported, that the Hon-
ourable Joseph Gerrish, Esq., and Colonel Ebenczer Saw-
yer, were chosen.

Ordered, That Colonel Dexter, Colonel Warren, and
Colonel Foster, be a Committee to bring in a Resolve for
supplying the Soldiers with two Twenty Shilling Bills each,
for a month's advance pay, and they are directed to draw
up a form for said Bills, and employ an Engraver to pre-
pare a plate for engraving the same without delay ; and

Resolved, That to-morrow morning, ten o'clock, be as-
signed for the consideration of the Report of said Com-
mittee thereon.

Ordered, That the Committee appointed to prepare an
application to the Continental Congress, sit forthwith.

Ordered, That Mr. Gill, Mr. Bliss, and Mr. How, be
a Committee to sort and count the votes for a Member of
the Committee of Supplies, in the room of Colonel Lee,
deceased.

The Committee last mentioned, reported that Mr. John
Pitts was chosen.

Ordered, That Colonel Barrett, Esquire Raw son, and
Mr. Webster, be a Committee to take into consideration a
Petition to this Congress from Mr. Boice and Mr. McLean,
of Milton.

Ordered, That Mr. Lothrop, Colonel Warren, and Mr.
Jcnnison, be a Committee to draw up some instructions to
the Delegates appointed to go to the Congress of New-
Hampshire.

Adjourned to eight o'clock, to-morrow morning.

Tuesday. M.y 1G, 1775, A. M.

Ordered, That Doctor Taylor, Mr. Grcenlcaf, and Cap-
tain Dix, be a Committee to apply to the Committee of
Safety for a list of such persons as they have given Listing
Orders to, and, in particular, a list of such as have com-
pleted,or nearly completed their respective Regiments, and,
as far as can be speedily obtained, the number of men each
Officer has enlisted, that this Congress may commission
such persons as they think proper, without delay.

The Committee appointed to consider the Petition of
Messrs. Boice and McLean, reported. A long debate was
had thereon, and it was finally determined that the Peti-
tioners have leave to withdraw their Petition.

Ordered, That Mr. Sullivan, Captain Stone, Colonel
Farley, Major Brooks, and Doctor Rawson, be a Com-
mittee to take into consideration a verbal information of the
capture of three Vessels, by a King's Cutter, at Dartmouth ,
and the retaking two of them, and fifteen Marines, prisoners.

Adjourned to three o'clock, P. M.

Afternoon.

Henry Gardner, Esq., having renewed his request that
this Congress would excuse him from serving the Colony
in the office of Receiver-General :

Resolved, That the determination of this matter be re-
ferred until to-morrow morning, ten o'clock ; and if Mr.
Gardner should then insist on being excused, that then the
Congress will proceed to the choice of some other person
to supply his place.

The Committee appointed to prepare an application to
the Continental Congress, reported the following, which
was read, paragraph by paragraph, and accepted, viz:

Resolved, That Doctor Church be ordered to go imme-
diately to Philadelphia, and deliver to the President of the
honourable American Congress, there now sitting, the fol-
lowing application, to be by him communicated to the Mem-
bers thereof. And the said Church is also directed to confer
with the said Congress, respecting such other matters as
may be necessary to the defence of this Colony, and par-
ticularly the state of the Army therein. [See Folio 620.]

The Committee appointed to prepare Instructions to the
Delegates who are going to New- Hampshire, reported the
following, which was accepted, viz :

Resolved, That the Honourable Joseph Gerrish, Esquire,
and Colonel Ebenezcr Sawyer, who are, by this Congress,
chosen a Committee to wait on the Delegates of the Colony
of New-Hampshire, are hereby empowered and directed to
take such methods, and make such application to the said
Congress, as shall, in the judgment of said Committee, ap-
pear most conducive to the union of the Colonies, and the
most direct way to induce said Congress of New-Hamp-
shire to raise their proportion of men to defend the Colo-
nies.

And it is also Resolved, That the said Committee be
furnished with a copy of the application of this Congress
to the Honourable Members of the Continental Congress,
which the said Committee is directed to deliver to the Pre-
sident of the Congress of that Colony, and to do all that
they can to procure the approbation of that Colony to our
assuming Government, and to communicate to said Con-
gress such of the proceedings of this Congress as they shall
think conducive to the good of the whole.

Ordered, That the said Delegates be furnished with a
copy of the Establishment for the Massachusetts Army,
Rules and Regulations for the same, and form of the Oath
for the Officers and Soldiers.

A Letter from Col. Thomas Legate, dated Cambridge,
)6th May, 1775, was read, and committed to Col. Foster,
Mr. Parker, and Mr. Bliss.

The Committee appointed to bring in a Resolve for sup-
plying the Soldiers with two Twenty Shilling Bills, for a
month's advance pay, again reported.

The Order of the Day was moved for.

Ordered, That Colonel Foster, Major Bliss, and Mr.
Bent, be a Committee to sort and count the votes for a

807

MASSACHUSETTS PROVINCIAL CONGRESS, MAY, 1775.

SOS

Member of this Congress to go to Philatlrlphia, with the
application of this Congress to the Continental Congress.

The Committee reported that Doctor Benjamin Church
was chosen.

The Committee appointed to take into consideration the
Letter from Colonel Legate, reported ; which Report, being
read and amended, was accepted, and is as follows, viz:

Whereas, it is of the utmost importance that the men
who shall be enlisted into the Artillery Company should
be well qualified for that employment ; and it being impos-
sible to enlist the men for the Artillery at large in the Col-
ony so soon as the service requires : therefore,

Resolved, That the Officers of the Artillery be allowed
to enlist the men from the several Regiments already en-
gaged, when the men are willing to engage in that service,
until the whole Artillery establishment shall be completed.
Always provided, that such enlistments shall be no preju-
dice or hindrance to the Officers with whom such men arc
already enlisted, in entitling them to their respective com-
missions, and that not more than four men be taken from
any one Company. And the Officers of the Train of Ar-
tillery are directed to use their endeavours to enlist as many
(who are not under any previous engagement in the Army)
as they can speedily ; and the Officers from whose Regi-
ment or Company any person is enlisted into the Train of
Artillery, are also directed to fill up their said Regiment or
Company with all convenient speed, by enlisting other
Soldiers in the place of those enlisted into the Train of Ar-
tillery.

Ordered, That Mr. Gerry, Mr. Pitts, Doctor Taylor,
the President, and Mr. Batchelder, be a Committee, to con-
sider what measures it would be expedient to take, relative
to the prisoners in Boston, and the inhabitants which are
there kept in duress.

The Committee appointed to apply to the Committee of
Safety for a list of Officers, Sac, reported verbally, that
they had no other list than what they had before sent to
the Congress ; that they had received no returns, and knew
not how many had enlisted, or whether any Regiments were
completed.

Ordered, That Colonel Barrett, Doctor Taylor, and Mr.
Fuller, be a Committee to take into consideration a Pe-
tition from the inhabitants of Canaan and Norridgewock,
on Kcnncbeclc River, and report.

The Committee who were appointed to consider the in-
formation from Dartmouth, reported. The Report was
recommitted for further examination and inquiry into the
affair.

Ordered, That Mr. Freeman and Doctor Holten be
added to the Committee appointed to examine Hutchinson's
Letters.

Adjourned to nine o'clock to-morrow morning.

Wednesday, May 17, 1775.

A Letter from Edward Mott to this Congress, dated
11th May, 1775, giving an account of the taking of the
Fortress at Ticonderoga, was read, together with a Letter
from Ethan Allen. Also an application from Col. Easton
and others ; whereupon,

Ordered, That Colonel Foster, Mr. Sullivan, and Doc-
tor Holten, be a Committee to introduce Colonel Easton
to this House, to give a narrative of that transaction, and
that each Member have liberty to ask him any questions.

Ordered, That Mr. President, Doctor Taylor, Colonel
Foster, Doctor Holten, and Mr. Cross, be a Committee to
take the same into consideration and report.

A Resolve from the Committee of Safety, relative to the
seizing the servants and friends to Government, (improperly
so called,) was read, and ordered to lie on the table.

Resolved, That three o'clock, P. M., be assigned for the
purpose of considering the expediency of making out a
Commission to General Ward.

The Congress appointed two other Monitors, viz : Mr.
John Hale and Captain H'oodbridge Broun.

The Resolve and form of an Oath to be taken by the
General Officers, were read, amended, and accepted, and
are as follow, viz:

Resolved, That the General Officers of the Massachu-
setts Army, now raising for the defence and security of the
rights and liberties of this, and our sister Colonies in Amt-
rica, shall, each and every of them, repeat, take, and sub-

scribe the following Oath, to be administered by .... ,
viz :

li I, A. B., do solemnly swear, that, as a General Officer
in the Massachusetts Army, I will well and faithfully exe-
cute the office of a General, to which I have been appointed,
according to my best abilities, in defence and for the secu-
rity of the estates, lives, and liberties, of the good people
of this, and the sister Colonies in America, in opposition
to Ministerial tyranny, by which they are, or may be op-
pressed, and to all other enemies and opposers whatsoever.
That I will adhere to the Rules and Regulations of said
Army, established by the Congress of the Massachusetts-
Bay, observe and obey the Resolutions and Orders which
are, or shall be passed by said Congress, or any future Con-
gress, or House of Representatives, or legislative body of
said Colony, and such Committees as shall be by them au-
thorized for that purpose ; and that I will disclose and make
known to the authority aforesaid, all traitorous conspiracies,
attempts, and designs whatsoever, which I shall know to be
made, or have reason to suspect are making, against the
Army, or any of the English American Colonies."

Ordered, That Jonas Dix, Esq., be directed to take
Depositions, relative to the destruction of private property
by the King's Troops, on the nineteenth ultimo, and their
driving women in child-bed out of their houses, and killing
old men unarmed.

Henry Gardner, Esq., informed the House that he was
willing to continue to serve this Colony in the office of
Receiver-General.

Ordered, That Mr. Kollock, Deacon Nichols, and Mr.
Rawson, be a Committee to consider what steps are proper
to be taken for the relief of such of the inhabitants of Bos-
ton as come over to Charlestons, who are not able to take
care of themselves.

The Committee appointed to consider the account of
taking the Fortress of Ticonderoga, reported the following
Resolve, and Letter to the Assembly of Connecticut, which
were accepted, and the Letter ordered to be authenticated
and sent forward :

Gentlemen : We have the happiness of presenting our
congratulations to you on the reduction of that important
fortress, Ticonderoga. We applaud the conduct of both
the officers and soldiers, and are of opinion, that the advan-
tageous situation of that fortress makes it highly expedient
that it should be repaired, and properly garrisoned. In the
mean time, as we suppose that there is no necessity for
keeping all the cannon there, we should be extremely glad
if all the battery cannon, especially brass cannon, which
can be spared from that place, or procured from Crown
Point, (which we hope by this time is in the hands of our
friends,) may be forwarded this way, with all possible expe-
dition, as we have here to contend with an Army furnished
with as fine a train of artillery as ever was seen in America.
And we are in extreme want of a sufficient number of can-
non to fortify those important passes, without which we can
neither annoy General Gage, if it should become neces-
sary, nor defend ourselves against him.

We therefore must most earnestly recommend this very
important matter to your immediate consideration ; and we
would suggest it, as our opinion, that the appointing Col-
onel Arnold to take charge of them, and bring them down,
with all possible haste, may be a means of settling any dis-
putes which may have arisen between him and some other
officers, which we are always desirous to avoid, and more
especially at a time when our common danger ought to unite
us in the strongest bonds of unity and affection.
We are, gentlemen, &c.

This Congress having received authenlick intelligence
that the Fort at Ticonderoga is surrendered into the hands
of Colonel Ethan Allen and others, together with the Ar-
tillery and Artillery Stores, Ammunition, &c, thereunto
belonging, for the benefit of these Colonies, occasioned by
the intrepid valour of a number of men under the com-
mand of the said Colonel Allen, Colonel Easton of the
Massachusetts, and others; and by the advice and direction
of the Committee for that expedition, the said Colonel
Allen is to remain in possession of the same and its depen-
dencies, until further order:

Resolved, That this Congress do highly approve of the
same ; and the General Assembly of the Colony of Con-

809

MASSACHUSETTS PROVINCIAL CONGRESS, MAY, 1"

S10

nccticut are hereby desired to give directions relative to
garrisoning and maintaining the same, for the future, until
the advice of the Continental Congress can he had in that
behalf.

And as this Colony is in want of some Battering Can-
non for their defence immediately, it is further Resolved,
That the President of this Congress be desired to write to
the General Assembly of the Colony of Connecticut , desir-
ing that they would give order for the immediate removal
of some of those Cannon to this Colony, for the purpose
aforesaid.

Adjourned to three o'clock, P. M.

Aftirnoon.

The Committee appointed to consider the Petition from
the inhabitants of Canaan and JSorridgcivock, reported.

The question being put, Whether the Report shall be
accepted ? it passed in the negative.

Thereupon, Resolved, That the Petitioners have leave
to withdraw their Petition.

Ordered, That Colonel Foster, Mr. Sullivan, and Cap-
tain Farley, be a Committee to prepare a Commission for
General Ward.

The Committee appointed to consider of the verbal in-
formation from Dartmouth, reported verbally, "That the
inhabitants of Dartmouth be advised to conduct themselves
(with respect to the prisoners they have taken) agreeably
to the direction of the Committee of Inspection for that
Town."

After a long debate, it was moved that the consideration
of this matter should subside.

And the question being put, it passed in the affirmative.

And the matter accordingly subsided.

Ordered, That the Secretary be directed to inform the
gentlemen from Dartmouth, of the determination of the
Congress, respecting the information from Dartmouth,
and the reason thereof.

Ordered, That the Committee appointed to revise the
Commission of the Committee of Safety, sit forthwith,
and report as soon as may be. That Mr. Sullivan be ex-
cused, and that Colonel Foster and Deacon Fisher be
added to this Committee.

Resolved, That Doctor Church be allowed one Servant
to attend him in his journey to Philadelphia.

Ordered, That the Letters relative to taking the For-
tress of Ticonderoga, be delivered to the Committee of
Safety.

Ordered, That the Committee appointed to prepare an
Establishment for Post-Offices, 8tc, be directed to bring
in a Resolve, for the purpose of empowering the Commit-
tee, who were appointed to agree with the Post-Riders,
$£C, to take Bonds of the Postmasters, and appoint oaths
to be taken by the Postmasters and Post-Riders ; and that
Colonel Foster be excused, and Captain Stone and Mr.
Greenleaf be added to the Committee.

Adjourned to nine o'clock to-morrow morning.

Thursday, May 18, 1775, A. M.

The Committee who were appointed to revise the Re-
solves respecting the Committee of Safely, reported :

Whereupon, Resolved, That three o'clock, in the after-
noon, be assigned for the choice of a Committee of Safety,
to consist of thirteen Members, and for the further consi-
deration of said Report.

Ordered, That Captain Raivson, Mr. Bullen, and Col-
onel Farley, be a Committee to consider the practicability
of employing Chaplains for the Army out of the number
of Clergy of this Colony.

Ordered, That Colonel Warren, Mr. Gardner, and Mr.
Sullivan be a Committee to bring in a Resolve, recom-
mending it to the inhabitants of this Colony not to choose
any person to represent them in Congress, who has a Com-
mission in the Army.

The Committee made the following Report ; which was
read :

In Provincial Congress, May 18, 1775.

Whereas, in all free States, the sword should be subser-
vient to, and under the control of the civil powers of
Government ; from whence arises the impropriety of the
Officers of the Army of this Colony being members of the
Congress to be held therein : and whereas, it is absolutely

necessary that every Officer of the Army aforesaid con-
stantly attend his duty therein :

Therefore, Retohed, That it be, and it is hereby recom-
mended to the several Towns in this Colony that they do
not return to the next Congress, to be held here, any Offi-
cer of the Army, as a member of said Congress.

Ordered, That Major Fuller, of Middleton, Mr. Whittc-
more, and Mr. Bliss, be a Committee to wait upon the
Honourable James Russell, Esq., Impost-Master, to know
if he has any Publick Moneys, now in his hands.

Ordered, That the President, Mr. Sullivan, and Col-
onel Warren, be a Committee to bring in a Resolve, re-
commending to the inhabitants of this Colony to make no
purchases, nor receive any conveyances of Estates, from the
Mandamus Counsellors, or other inveterate enemies to the
rights of this Country, and that they have no dealings of
any kind with such persons.

Ordered, That Mr. Gardner, Doctor Taylor, and Mr.
Kollock, be a Committee to consider and inquire into the
subject-matter of a Resolve of the Committee of Safety
respecting Lady Frankland.

Adjourned to three o'clock, P. M.

Afternoon.

Ordered, That Mr. Sullivan, Colonel Foster, Doctor
Molten, Mr. Bragdon and Captain Batcheldcr, be a Com-
mittee to take into consideration a Letter from the Com-
mittee of Correspondence for the Town of Falmouth, and
such parts of a Letter from the Honourable Enoch Free-
man, Esq. to the Secretary, as he may communicate.
The Order of the Day was moved for.
Ordered, That Captain Brown, Mr. Bayley, and Cap-
tain Baker, be a Committee to sort and count the votes
for a Committee of Safety.

The Committee appointed to count and sort the votes
for a Committee of Safety, reported that the following
gentlemen were chosen, viz:

Hon. John Hancock, Esq., Capt. Benjamin White,.
Doctor Joseph Warren, Col. Joseph Palmer,

Doctor Benjamin Church, Mr. Richard Devens,
Mr. Abraham Watson, Mr. John Pigeon^

Colonel Azor Orne, Hon. Benj. Greenleaf,

Mr. Nathan Cushing, Doct. Samuel Holten.

Hon. Enoch Freeman, Esq.,

The Report was recommitted for filling up the blanks.

Ordered, That Mr. Kollock, Doctor Taylor, and Colo-
nel Davis, be a Committee to inquire where the Treasurer
may procure Money for the Muster-Masters, to supply the
Soldiers with advance pay.

The Committee who were appointed to consider the
Resolve of the Committee of Safety respecting Lady
Frankland, reported as follows:

The Committee appointed to consider the Resolution of
the Committee of Safety, respecting the removal of Lady
Frankland, with her effects, from Hopkinton to Boston,
have attended to that service, and ask leave to report facts
as the Committee find them, viz :

That Mrs. Frankland hath with her now going into Bos-
Ion, four horses, two chaises, one phaeton, six oxen, two
carts, five sheep, one swine, about four hundred of hay, two
barrels and one hamper filled with bottled wine, one keg of
tongues, six trunks and several small boxes, containing
chiefly men and women's wearing apparel, sheeting and
other linens, three beds, with their furniture ; one gun, one
pistol, and one sword, one flask, with a small quantity of
powder and lead ; about ten bushels of Indian corn, and
one canister, with a small quantity of tea.

As a number of people at or near the place where the
above articles are confined, appear to be greatly irritated at
Mrs. Frankland's proceeding to Boston, the Committee
think it their duty to report facts. Which is submitted.

Per order: Henry Gardner.

Whereupon, Resolved, That Mr. Craft be and hereby
is directed forthwith to attend this Congress.

Mr. Craft accordingly attended ; and having heard the
allegations against him, and having made his defence, with-
drew.

The Congress then Resolved, That he should be gently
admonished by the President, and be assured that the

811

MASSACHUSETTS PROVINCIAL CONGRESS, MAY. 1775.

812

Congress were determined lo preserve their dignity and
power over the Military.

Mr. Craft was again called in, and the President politely
admonished him, agreeably to the Resolve of Congress.

Resolved, That Lady Frankland he permitted to go
into Boston with the following articles, viz : seven trunks;
all the beds, and furniture to thorn ; all the boxes and crates ;
a basket of chickens, and a bag of corn ; two barrels and
a hamper ; two horses and two chaises, and all the articles
in the chaise, excepting arms and ammunition ; one pha-
eton, some tongues, hams and veal, and sundry small bun-
dles.

Which articles having been examined by a Committee
from this Congress, she is permitted to have them carried
in without any further examination.

Adjourned to nine o'clock to-morrow morning.

Friday, May 19, 1775.

Resolved, That Colonel Bond be and hereby is directed
to appoint a Guard of six men to escort Lady Frankland
to Boston, with such of her effects as this Congress have
permitted her to carry with her; and Colonel Bond is di-
rected to wait on General Thomas with a copy of the Re-
solves of this Congress respecting Lady Frankland.

Resolved, That Mr. Ezekiel Hall, of this Town, be
recommended to the Generals of our Colony Army, in
order to have such aid as they can afford him in going into
or out of Boston, or sending some suitable person there,
which appears to be necessary, in order to save some of
his valuable effects, which there is reason to fear were ex-
posed by the late fire.

Ordered, That Colonel Warre7i wait on General Ward,
directing him to attend this Congress forthwith, to receive
his Commission ; and also on the Committee of Safety, for
a list of such Colonels and other Officers as they shall
report to be prepared for receiving their Commissions.

A Letter from the Committee of Correspondence of
Connecticut, was read, respecting the taking of Ticonde-
roga : Whereupon,

Ordered, That Mr. Gerry prepare an answer thereto,
informing them what steps this Congress have taken rela-
tive to that affair.

Ordered, That Doctor Perkins and Captain Baker be
added to the Committee who were appointed to inquire
where the Treasurer can borrow money.

Resolved, That all persons who may have any Goods
or Chattels belonging to Lady Frankland, now in their
custody, which are not mentioned in the Resolve of this
Congress for allowing her, with certain effects, to go into
Boston, be and herehy are directed to permit her to send
them to Hopkinton, or dispose of them in any way agree-
able to her, not inconsistent with the Resolves of this Con-
gress.

The Committee appointed to consider what steps may
be taken for the relief of such of the inhabitants of Boston
as come over to Charlestown, Sic, reported : Whereupon,

Ordered, That Deacon Cheever, Colonel Davis, and
Captain E. Withington, be a Committee to bring in a list
of names of persons to fill up the blank in said Report.

Mr. Gerry reported an Answer to a Letter from the
Committee of Correspondence of Connecticut, which was
accepted.

Adjourned to three o'clock, P. M.

Afternoon.

Ordered, That Doctor Holten, Mr. Whittemore, and
Major Bliss, be a Committee to take into consideration the
Representation made to this Congress by Colonel Warren,
by desire of General Ward, of the necessity there is that
the Army should be immediately supplied with Iron Pots,
as well as an additional stock of Powder ; as also for pro-
viding a House for the abode of Joseph Trumbull, Esquire,
of Connecticut, and another for the Chairman and the other
Members of the Committee of Safety.

The Committee appointed to take into consideration the
Representation made to this Congress by Colonel Warren,
by desire of General Ward, made the following Report :

That they applied to the Committee of Supplies respect-
ing the want of Iron Pots for the use of the Army; and
also of an additional stock of Powder, and received for
answer, that Mr. Gerry would wait upon the Congress this

afternoon, and inform them respecting the same. And said
Committee beg leave further to report, as their opinion.
that a Resolve be brought in empowering Joseph Trum-
buU, Esquire, of Connecticut, to use and improve the house
of John Borland, Esquire, late of Cambridge, until further
orders of this Congress, or some future Congress, or House
of Representatives ; and also a Resolve empowering the
Committee of Safety to use and improve the house of John
Vassall. Esquire, late of Cambridge, until further orders of
this Congress, or some future Congress, or House of Repre-
sentatives; said houses to be improved as above expressed.
as soon as General Ward shall provide for the soldiers in
said houses in some other places.

The Report of the Committee for revising the Commis-
sions of the Committee of Safety, after being read, para-
graph by paragraph, was amended and accepted, and is as
follows, viz:

Whereas, the former Congresses of this Colony have
chosen, and by divers Resolutions have empowered, John
Hancock, Esquire, Doctor Joseph Warren, Doctor Benja-
min Church, Captain Benjamin White, Colonel Joseph
Palmer, Mr. Richard Devens, Mr. Abraham Watson, Jr.,
Mr. John Pigeon, Colonel Azor Orne, Nathan Cushing,
Esq., Colonel William Heath, Colonel Thomas Gardner,
Colonel Asa Whitcomb, Mr. Edward Durant, and Mr.
James Sullivan, to be a Committee of Safety ; and by
virtue of the authority of that office, on certain occasions,
to cause to be assembled the Militia of this Colony, for the
defence of the inhabitants thereof; and which Committee
of Safety are, by the Resolutions of said Congresses, em-
powered to do several other acts for the service of the Col-
ony, as by the Journals and Records of said Congresses
appears :

It is Resolved, That whatever the said Committee of
Safety, or any of them, have done pursuant to the said
Resolutions of said Congress, shall be held good and valid,
and that the said inhabitants of said Colony shall be held
thereby, as well according to the true intent and meaning
of said Resolutions, as according to the strict letter thereof.

And whereas, there appears to be still a deficiency of
power in said Committee, considering the particular exi-
gencies of the Colony, and it being necessary to have their
Commission as concise and explicit as possible, which can
be done only by consolidating the powers intended by the
several Resolutions of this as well as the former Congresses,
to be given them ; it is, therefore,

Resolved, That all and every Resolution now in force
respecting the said Committee of Safety, shall be and
hereby are repealed, revoked, and rendered null and void.

And it is also Resolved, That the Honourable John
Hancock, Esquire, Doctor Joseph Warren, Doctor Benja-
min Church, Captain Benjamin White, Colonel Joseph
Palmer, Mr. Richard Devens, Mr. Abraham Watson, Mr.
John Pigeon, Colonel Azor Orne, Honourable Benjamin
Greenleaf, Esquire, Mr. Nathan Cushing, Doctor Samuel
Holten, and Honourable Enoch Freeman, Esq., be a Com-
mittee of Safety for this Colony hereafter, until some fur-
ther order of this or some future Congress or House of
Representatives of this Colony shall revoke their or either
of their appointment.

And it is also Resolved, That the said Committee of
Safety shall be, and hereby are empowered, when they shall
think it necessary, in defence of the lives and properties of
the inhabitants of this Colony, to assemble such and so
many of the Militia thereof, and them to dispose and place
where, and detain so long, as the said Committee of Safety
shall judge necessary, and to discharge said Militia when
the safety of this Colony will admit of it ; and the Officers
of the said Militia are hereby enjoined to pay strict obe-
dience to the orders and directions of the said Committee
of Safety.

And it is also Resolved, That the said Committee of
Safety shall be, and hereby are empowered to direct the
Army of this Colony to be stationed where the said Com-
mittee of Safety shall judge most conducive to the defence
and service of the Colony; and the General, and other Of-
ficers of the Army, are required to render strict obedience
to such orders of said Committee ; provided always, that it
shall be in the power of this, or any future Congress, to
control any order of the said Committee of Safety, respect-
ing this or any other matter.

813

MASSACHUSETTS PROVINCIAL CONGRESS, MAY, 1775.

614

And whereas, the former Committee of Safety were, by
a Resolve of this Congress, empowered to nominate per-
sons to this Congress to be commissioned to be officers in
the Army now establishing for the defence of this Colony ;
and said Committee having already given orders to a num-
ber of persons to enlist men for that purpose:

Resolved, That the Committee of Safety now appointed
proceed in that matter, that such officers, where the Regi-
ments are completed, may be commissioned by this Con-
gress ; and if any Regiment should be nearly completed,
and the officers thereof ready to be commissioned, agree-
ably to the Resolve of this Congress, during the time be-
tween the dissolution of this Congress and the meeting of
the next, the said Committee shall have power to fill up
and deliver out Commissions to them; and blank Commis-
sions, signed by the President of this Congress, and attest-
ed by the Secretary, shall be delivered to the said Com-
mittee for this purpose.

And it is also Resolved, That any five of the said Com-
mittee be a quorum, with full power to transact any busi-
ness which the Committee, by the Resolves above, are
empowered and vested with authority to do.

Ordered, That Letters be sent to the Honourable Ben-
jamin Grernleaf Esquire, and the Hon. Enoch Freeman,
Esquire, informing them of their being chosen Members of
the Committee of Safety, and requesting their attendance
as soon as possible.

Resolved, That Mr. John Pigeon be, and he hereby is
appointed and empowered as a Commissary for the Army
of this Province, to draw from the Magazines which are or
may be provided for that purpose, such Provisions and other
stores, as from time to time he shall find necessary for the
Army ; and he is further empowered to recommend to the
Congress such persons as shall be necessary, and as he
shall think qualified, to serve as Deputy Commissaries;
and said Deputy Commissaries, when confirmed by the
Congress for the time being, shall have full power to act in
said office, and are to be accountable to the Commissary
for their doings ; also, said Commissary is empowered to
contract with and employ such other persons to assist him
in executing his office, as shall be by him found necessary ;
and his contracts for necessaries to supply the Army during
the late confused state of the Colony, shall be allowed;
and the Committee of Supplies are hereby directed to ex-
amine, and if they find them reasonable, considering the
exigencies of the times, to draw on the Treasury for pay-
ment of the same.

The form of a Commission for General Ward was read,
amended, and accepted, and is as follows, viz :

" The Congress of the Colony of the Massachusetts-
Hay to the Honourable Artemas Ward, Esquire,

greeting :

" We, reposing especial trust and confidence in your
courage and good conduct, do, by these presents, constitute
and appoint you, the said Artemas Ward, to be General
and Commander-in-Chief of all the Forces raised by the
Congress aforesaid, for the defence of this and the other
American Colonies. You are, therefore, carefully and
diligently to discharge the duty of a General, in leading,
ordering, and exercising the said Forces in arms, both in-
feriour Officers and Soldiers, and to keep them in good
order and discipline ; and they are hereby commanded to
obey you as their General ; and yon are yourself to ob-
serve and follow such orders and instructions as you shall,
from time to time, receive from this or any future Congress,
or House of Representatives of this Colony, or the Com-
mittee of Safety, so far as the said Committee is empow-
ered, by their commission, to order and instruct you for
the defence of this and the other Colonies, and to demean
yourself according to the military rules and discipline, es-
tablished by Congress in pursuance of the trust reposed in
vou. By order of the Congress :

" President pro tern.

" . . . . the . . . . of .... A. D. 1775.
" Secretary pro tern."

Ordered, That Colonel Foster,. Captain Stone, and
Mr. Webster, he a Committee to get the Depositions and
.Narrative of the late excursion of the King's Troops to

Concord, printed in a pamphlet, on the best terms they
can ; and that they forward one pamphlet to each Town
and District in the Colony.

Resolved, That there he a blank left in the Commis-
sions to be given the Officers of the several Regiments of
the Colony Army, for the rank of the Regiment, and that

be a Committee to settle the ranks

of the Regiments, when the Regiments are completed.

Resolved, That the same Committee be directed to
bring in a Resolve, settling the rank or number of the Re-
giments, according to the rank or age of the Counties from
whence the majority of the Regiments shall come.

Resolved, That the rank of the Regiments, where there
are more than one in each County, be according to the
rank which those Regiments formerly sustained in the old
arrangement, from which they are taken, provided that can
be ascertained ; and where that cannot be determined, the
rank to he determined by lot.

Resolved, That the Commissions be all of one date, and
that the rank of the Officers be determined by this Con-
gress, or by a Committee from this Congress at some
future lime.

Resolved, That Colonel Samuel Gerrish have a Com-
mission for a Colonel in the Army, and that the oath be
administered to him by Mr. Gardner, the Receiver-Gen-
eral ; also, that Commissions, as Captains, issue (or Richard
Dodge, Jucob Gerrish, and William Rogers; Commissions
to bear date the 19th May.

Adjourned to nine o'clock to-morrow morning.

Saturday, May 20, 1775.

Ordered, That Colonel Foster, Doctor Holten, and
Major Brooks, be a Committee to confer with Mr. Revere,
respecting his proposal for an alteration in the value of the
Colony Notes, which have been ordered to be struck oft'.

Ordered, That Colonel Thurston, Esquire Aikin, and
Mr. Crane, be a Committee to take into consideration a
Petition from a number of the inhabitants of Deer Island.

The Committee appointed to consider the case of the
prisoners in Boston, and the inhabitants which are there
kept in duress, reported. The Report was read and ac-
cepted, and is as follows, viz:

Whereas this Congress did, on the 30th of April last
past, pass a Resolve for permitting such inhabitants of the
Colony to remove into Boston, "with their effects, fire-
arms and ammunition excepted," as should incline thereto ;
it being in consequence of General Gage's promise to the
inhabitants of Boston, that upon resigning their arms and
ammunition they should have liberty to remove from said
Town with their effects : And whereas but a small propor-
tion of the said inhabitants of Boston have been hitherto
permitted to leave the Town, and those only to bring their
clothing and household furniture, they being constrained to
leave their provisions and all their other effects : Therefore,

Resolved, That General Ward be, and he hereby is
directed to order the Guards in future not to suffer any pro-
visions or effects, excepting furniture and clothing, to be
carried into the Town of Boston, so long as the said Gen-
eral Gage shall suffer the persons or effects of the inhabi-
tants of said Town, contrary to his plighted faith, to be
restrained.

The Committee appointed to confer with Mr. Revere?
brought in the following Resolves, which were accepted,
and the Secretary directed to erase from the Minutes the
Resolve which passed this Congress for issuing Colony
Notes often Shillings each :

Whereas this Congress did, on the fourth day of this in-
stant, May, pass a Resolve in the following form, viz:

Resolved, That each Non-commissioned Officer and Pri-
vate Soldier, who has or shall enlist himself into the service
of this Colony, shall have twenty Shillings paid him out of
the Receiver-General's office, as advance pay, and that the
Commanding Officer of each Regiment, who shall be, and
hereby is empowered to act as Muster-Master to his said
Regiment, shall draw from the Receiver General's office
the sum of twenty Shillings for each Non-commissioned
Officer and Private Soldier in his said Regiment, and pay
the same, according to the tenor of this Resolve, as soon
as said men have enlisted themselves, and been duly sworn,
and >nve his liond, with sufficient sureties, to the Receiver-

S15

MASSACHUSETTS PROVINCIAL CONGRESS, MAY, ITJ».

816

General therefor ; said Bond to be discharged by a n
produced by said Officer from each Non-commissioned Offi-
nd Private Soldier, that lie lias received the same.

And whereas this Congress have, by a subsequent Re-
solve, superseded the appointment of the Muster-Masters
aforementioned, and directed that Colonel Benjamin Iah-
coln and Colonel Asa Whitcomb, be appointed Muster-
Masters in the Massachusetts Army, whose business ii shall
be to pass muster on every Soldier that should be enlisted
into the said Army, and by no means to accept of any but
such as are able-bodied and effective men, and also to ex-
amine their Arms and Accoutrements, he, that they are in
proper order ; and said Muster-Masters are thereby directed
and empowered to receive from Henry Gardner, Esquire,
Receiver-General, twenty Shillings, lawful money, for each
and every Non-commissioned Officer and Private Soldier
then mustered and sworn, and as shall appear with their
Arms, he, and shall give Bond to said Receiver-General,
with sufficient sureties for such moneys drawn out of the
Treasury, and shall forthwith pay out said sum of twenty
Shillings advance pay, to each and every Non-commissioned
Officer and Private Soldier, and on producing receipts from
them to said Receiver-General, said Bonds shall be can-
celled : And whereas it is found that sufficient ready cash
cannot be obtained so soon as it will be needed for the pur-
pose aforesaid : therefore,

Resolved, That each Non-commissioned Officer and Pri-
vate Soldier aforesaid, (if he will accept the same,) shall,
instead of twenty Shillings advance pay, upon the muster
aforesaid, receive forty Shillings advance pay in three Notes,
on interest from the Receiver-General, to be paid in one
year from the date of said Notes ; and that for all such sums
as the said Col. Lincoln and Col. Whitcomb shall receive
of the Receiver-General in Notes as aforesaid, they give
Bonds, and that such Bonds be discharged by receipts, as
in and by the last mentioned Resolve is directed.

Ordered, That the President, Major Hatoley, General
Whitcomb, Mr. Gerry, Colonel Palmer, Colonel Lincoln,
and Colonel Foster, be a Committee to consider what mea-
sures are proper to be taken, for organizing the Massachu-
setts Army in the most effectaal and ready manner.

Resolved, That for the payment of advance pay to the
Massachusetts Army, there be issued by the Receiver-
General, on the credit of this Colony, a sum not exceeding
Twenty-Six Thousand Pounds, lawful money, in Notes of
the following denominations, viz : of Twenty Shillings, of
Eighteen, Sixteen, Fifteen, Fourteen, Twelve, Ten, Nine,
and of Six Shillings ; to be four thousand three hundred
and thirty-three of each denomination, and no more ; and
to be of the form following, viz :

Colony of the Massachusetts-Bay.
No. May 25, 1775.

The possessor of this Note shall be entitled to receive,
out of the publick Treasury of this Colony, the sum of
Shillings, lawful money, on the twenty-
fifth day of May, Anno Domini 1776, with interest, at the
rate of six per cent, per annum. And this Note shall be
received in all payments at the Treasury, at any time after
the date hereof, for the principal sum, without interest, if
so paid before the said 25th day of May, Anno Domini

1776.

Receiver- General.

Which Notes shall be received in all payments in this
Colony ; and no discount or abatement shall be made there-
on in any payment, trade, or exchange whatsoever.

The Committee appointed to consider the practicability
of providing Chaplains for the Army, reported.

The Report was read, and recommitted.

The Petition of Benjamin Thompson to the Committee
of Safety, was read, and ordered to subside.

Adjourned to three o'clock, P. M.

Afternoon.

The Report of the Committee appointed to consider the
practicability of providing Chaplains, was again read, ac-
cepted, and is as follows, viz :

Whereas, it is necessary that Chaplains should be ap-
pointed in the Massachusetts Army, under the command of
the Honourable Artemas Ward, Esquire, which, if appoint-

ed on the establishment made by this Colony, will greatly
enhance the Colony debt :

And whereas, it has been represented to this Congress,
that several Ministers of the Religious Assemblies within
this Colony have expressed their willingness to attend the
Army aforesaid in the capacity of Chaplains, as they may
be directed by this Congress : therefore,

Hi solved, That it be, and it is hereby recommended to
the Ministers of the several Religious Assemblies within
this Colony, that, with the leave of their several Congrega-
tions, they attend said Army in their several Towns, to the
number of thirteen at one time, during the time the Army
shall be encamped ; and that they make known their Re-
solutions to the Congress thereon, or to the Committee of
Safety, as soon as may be.

Resolved unanimously, That the President be desired to
deliver to General Ward the Commission prepared for him
by this Congress, as General and Commander-in-Chief of
the Massachusetts Forces.

Ordered, That Major Brooks, Colonel Mitchell, Es-
quire Rawson, Esquire Dix, and Major Bliss, be a Com-
mittee to examine the prisoner at the door, brought from
Head-Quarters, and report some order to be taken thereon.

The President communicated to Congress the request of
the Selectmen of Boston, that the Congress would permit
Mr. Hall to carry two loads of Hay into Boston, one for
himself and one for another person, ( Lieutenant-Go vernour
Oliver :) Whereupon,

Ordered, That the messenger in waiting be dismissed.

Resolved, That only the Colonels of each Regiment
should attend this Congress to receive their Commissions,
unless they should be indisposed, or otherwise necessarily
prevented ; in which case the next Field-Officer may apply
for his Commission, and Commissions for the inferiour Of-
ficers in his Regiment.

The Honourable Mr. Dexter having, by order of Con-
gress, administered the Oath to General Ward, his Com-
mission was delivered to him by the President.

The following Commissions were likewise delivered, viz :

To Thomas Cogswell and John Wood, Captains, under
command of Colonel Gerrish.

Ephraim Doolittle, Colonel ; Ebenezer Learned, Colo-
nel ; Joseph Reed, Colonel ; James Bricket, Lieutenant-
Colonel, under Colonel James Fry ; Calvin Smith, Major,
under Colonel Joseph Read.

Danforth Keys, Lieutenant-Colonel, Jonathan Holman,
Major, under Colonel Ebenezer Learned.

Ebenezer Clap, Lieutenant-Colonel, under Colonel Jo-
seph Read.

Ordered, That Commissions be delivered to the Captains
of Col. Fry's Regiment, agreeably to a list exhibited.

Resolved, That nine o'clock next Tuesday morning, be
assigned for taking into consideration the expediency of
giving Lieutenants' Commissions to the Subaltern Officers.

Resolved, That three o'clock next Thicsday afternoon,
be assigned to consider a Motion made by Colonel Doolit-
tle, for appointing a Muster-Master for the enlisted Com-
panies at Northfield.

Ordered, That Captain Brown and Esquire Dix be a
Committee to procure a Guard over the prisoners from
Head-Quarters ; and that the Guard who conducted them
from thence be now released.

Adjourned until to-morrow afternoon, at four o'clock.

Sunday, May 21, 1775.
Met at four o'clock, and adjourned until to-morrow
morning, eight o'clock.

Monday, May 22, 1775.

The Committee on the Petition from the inhabitants of
Deer Island, reported as follows, viz :

The Committee on the Petition of a number of the in-
habitants of Deer Island, so called, in the County of Lin-
coln, beg leave to report : That they have made inquiry of
the bearer of the Petition, Major Low, and find that the
people there are greatly in want of provisions, and ought
to be relieved ; but whether it will be best to remove them
from the Island, or to supply them with one hundred and
(iliy bushels of Corn, one hundred bushels of Potatoes, two
barrels of Pork, twenty Cod-lines, with leads and hooks,
and a small quantity of Salt, we submit to the Congress.

817

MASSACHUSETTS PROVINCIAL CONGRESS, MAY, 1775.

818

Ordered, That the consideration of this Report be de-
ferred until there is a fuller House.

The Committee appointed to consider what measures
should be adopted in relation to the Estates of persons un-
friendly to the Country, reported the following Resolve,
which was accepted, and ordered to be published in the
Newspapers printed in Cambridge and Salem :

Whereas a number of men, some of whom have, in times
past, by the good people of this Province, been raised to
the highest places of honour and trust, have become inimi-
cal to this Colony ; and merely on principles of avarice,
have, in conjunction with the late Governour Hutchinson,
been trying to reduce all America to the most abject state
of slavery ; and, as well to avoid the just indignation of the
people as to pursue their diabolical plans, have fled to Bos-
ion and other places for refuge : therefore,

Resolved, That those persons, among whom are the
Mandamus Counsellors, are guilty of such atrocious and
unnatural crimes against their Country, that every friend
to mankind ought to forsake and detest them, until they
shall evidence a sincere repentance, by actions worthy of
men and christians ; and that no person within this Colony
shall take any Deed, Lease, or Conveyance whatever, of
the Lands, Houses, or Estates of such persons. And it is
hereby recommended lo the Committee of Inspection, in
every Town in this Colony, to see this Resolve fully en-
forced, unless in such cases as the Congress shall otherwise
direct.

A Letter was received from General Ward, recommend-
ing that the Ordnance, Arms, and Ammunition mentioned
in the following List, be immediately procured and sent to
Head-Quarters, for the supply of the Army of Massachu-
setts, viz :

Thirty Twenty-Four-Pounders, and if that number of
Cannon cannot be obtained, that the weight of metal be
made up with Eigbteen-Pounders, double fortified ; ten
Twelve-Pounders; eighteen Nine-Pounders; twenty-one
thousand six hundred pounds of Powder, and eighty Balls
for each gun ; one thousand five hundred Stands of Arms ;
twenty thousand pounds of Musket Powder; forty thou-
sand pounds of Lead ; seventeen hundred Iron Pots.

This Congress having requested the Reverend Doctor
Eangdon to deliver a Sermon before the next Massachu-
setts Congress, at their meeting in this place on the last
fVednesday of this month, and he having signified that he
will comply with such request :

Resolved, That it is the desire of this Congress, that the
Reverend Ministers of the Gospel in this Colony would as-
semble at that time, agreeable to their ancient custom, and
hold a Convention as usual, if they think proper, as, in the
opinion of this Congress, the cause of religion, and the
political interest of this Colony, may be served by such
meeting.

Ordered, That the Secretary cause the foregoing Resolu-
tion to be published in the Newspapers as soon as may be.

A Letter was received from the Committee of Safety,
enclosing a communication from Colonel Benedict Arnold,
giving information of the surrender of l^iconderoga.

Ordered, That the following Letter to Colonel Arnold,
reported by a Committee, be accepted, signed by the Secre-
tary, and forwarded in the name and behalf of this Con-
press, as soon as may be. [See the Letter, Folio 676.]

Ordered, That Doctor Taylor, Mr. Hale, and Mr.
Kollock, be a Committee to take into consideration a Let-
ter communicated this day by the President from the Hon-
ourable James Russell, Commissioner of Imposts, dated
Charlcstown, May 19; and, in particular, to inquire into
Mr. Russell's right of making the contract therein men-
tioned, and the circumstances of it, and report as soon as
may be.

Tuesday, May 23, 1775.

The Committee appointed to consider the Letter from
Brovjnfield, reported, that they find by the bearer of the
Letter that the inhabitants have some Arms, Powder, &c.,
and are not in danger, except from Indians, who are friendly
at present ; and the slate of our affairs calls for such large
supplies, that the consideration of their request be deferred
till the sitting of the next Congress.

The Report was accepted, and Mr. Israel Hobart was

Fourth Series. — Vol. ii.

directed to inform the bearer of the Letter of the action of
Congress thereon.

The Committee appointed to bring in a Resolve respect-
ing the depredations of the British Troops on the Islands
and Sea-Coasts, reported as follows :

Whereas, the Troops and Forces under the command of
General Gage and Admiral Graves are frequently plun-
dering and making depredations on the Islands and Sea-
Coasts of this Province, from whence they plunder or pur-
chase Hay, Cattle, Sheep, and many other things, to the
injury not only of individuals, but also to the great damage
of the publick, and thus strengthen the hands of our ene-
mies : therefore,

Resolved, That it be recommended to the several Towns
and Districts on the Sea-Coasts of this Colony, and to all
those persons living on the several Islands on said Coasts,
that they remove their Hay, Cattle, Sheep, he, that are
exposed to those ravages, and cannot be sufficiently guard-
ed, so far into the country as to be out of the way of those
implacable enemies to this people ; also, that it be recom-
mended to the Committees of Correspondence in each Town
and District, and to the Selectmen, where no such Com-
mittee is chosen, that they take effectual care that this Re-
solve be immediately and strictly put into execution ; and
that all persons who refuse to comply with the aforegoing
Resolve shall be held as incorrigible enemies to the rights
and liberties of this Country.

This Report being read and amended,

Ordered, That the further consideration thereof be re-
ferred to the next Provincial Congress.

Whereas Edward How hath been brought before this
Congress, and charged with crimes committed in the camp ;
and as this Congress do adjudge the Head-Quarters of the
Army to be the most suitable and proper place to try the
said Edward How, and determine what is adequate to his
demerits : therefore,

Resolved, That the said Edward How be sent under a
guard to Head-Quarters, and that he be there dealt with
as the nature of his offence doth require.

Ordered, That Captain Brown be directed to see that
the said How is sent to Head-Quarters with a copy of the
foregoing Resolve.

Whereas Thomas Nicols, a negro man, hath been brought
before this Congress, and there being no evidence to prove
any matters or things alleged against him : therefore,

Resolved, That the said Thomas be sent to the Town
or District where he belongs, and that the Committee of
Correspondence, or Selectmen of said Town or District,
take such care of the said Thomas, that he may be dealt
with as they, in their judgment, shall think proper.

Ordered, That Captain Kingsbury be directed to ap-
point some persons to conduct the above-mentioned negro
to Natick, agreeably to the foregoing Resolve.

The Committee appointed to consider what further mea-
sures are necessary to be taken for the organization of the
Army, presented their Report; which was read, accepted,
and is as follows :

The Committee appointed on the twentieth May current,
to consider what further orders are necessary to be taken
and passed, that the Army now raising by this Province
for the necessary defence thereof may be effectually offi-
cered and organized, have attended that service, and beg
leave to report, that they are humbly of opinion that, for
the end aforesaid, it is necessary that, over and above the
General already appointed for said Army, and commissioned
by Congress, the following Officers (not yet ordered by
Congress) should be chosen and commissioned, to wit : one
Lieutenant-General, two Major-Generals, four Brigadier-
Generals, two Adjutant-Generals, and two Quarter-Master-
Generals; and that this Congress, before they shall rise,
and as soon as shall be convenient, proceed to choose and
commission such Lieutenant-General ; but that the choice
of the rest of the Officers above specified, should be referred
to the beginning of the first session of the next Congress.
And they beg leave to subjoin, as their opinion, that it will
be proper that such Brigadier-Generals should be chosen,
and taken of and from among the Colonels who may be
commissioned by Congress.

All which is humbly submitted by your Committee, who
ask leave to sit again. Joseph Hawley, per order.

52

8 1 9

MASSACHUSETTS PROVINCIAL CONGRESS, MAY, 1775.

820

Wednesday, May 94, ITT.").

Ebenczer Cutler * of Northborough, havingbeen brought
before this Congress on complaint of sundry persons, for
uttering sundry expressions against the liberties of the good
people of this Colony, and the same having been inquired
of by a Committee, who reported, among other matters,
that all the expressions of which he is accused were uttered
some time ago ; and that the said Ebenczer had requested
that he might have the same privilege of going inio the
Town of Boston, without his effects, as other persons have,
by the order of Congress :

The Report was accepted, and it was thereupon Re-
solved, That he have liberty for so doing.

Mr. Gerry, from the Committee to consider the pro-
priety of appointing some additional Armourers, reported
as follows, viz :

"Resolved, That the Committee of Supplies be empow-
ered and directed to appoint such and so many Armourers,
in addition to those already appointed, as may be wanted
by the Army of this Colony, not exceeding fifteen, in-
cluding those already appointed ; and that the said Ar-
mourers, as also those already appointed by the Committee
of Safety, shall each receive four Pounds per month, and
be entitled to billeting as Soldiers, they providing their own
tools; and the said Armourers are hereby directed to keep
true accounts of the expense of repairing the Fire-Arms
of such Soldiers whose Fire-Arms are repaired in order to
qualify them to pass muster. And the Committee of Sup-
plies be, and hereby are empowered and directed to dis-
charge such as are, or may hereafter be appointed, when
they shall think it for the interest of the Colony so to do."

The Report being read, and amended,

Ordered, That Mr. Whittemore, Captain Dwight, and
Mr. Kollock, be a Committee to bring in a Resolve for the
appointment of a number of Armourers as aforesaid, and
for the establishment of their Pay.

It being made to appear to this Congress that the major
part of the Committee appointed to effect the Removal of
the Poor of the Town of Boston to the place to which they
are destined, are removed out of the Towns of Charles-
town and Roxbury, to which they belonged :

Resolved, That Messrs. Isaac Foster, Nathaniel Gor-
ham, Edward Goodwin, John Frothingham, Joseph Hop-
kins, Colonel Joseph Williams, Mr. Nathaniel Patten,
Major Nathaniel Ruggles, Mr. Noah Parsons, Deacon
William Gridley, Lewis Fay, and James Bradish, Jun.,
or any three of them, (being present,) be a Committee
for all the purposes and with all the powers to which the
said Committee were appointed.

And it being also made to appear that said Committee
cannot proceed unless further provision be made in that
behalf:

Therefore Resolved, That said Committee, or any three

» Watertown, May 22, 1775.

The Committee appointed to examine the case of Ebenezer Cutler,
do find, by full proof, that said Cutler has proved himself very inimical
to his Country, by speaking many things very disrespectful of the Con-
tinental and Provincial Congresses, and acting against their resolves;
and by saying he would assist Gage ; calling suoh, damned fools who
signed the Town Covenant, or Non-consumption Agreement; saying, the
Acts of the Parliament were just and righteous, (meaning those which
tended to take away our liberties;) and many other ways has manifosted
his enmity to this Country, for which he, said Cutler, deserves severe
punishment ; but he pleading the Resolve of this Congress to tolerate
such of the inhabitants of this Colony as were so minded to go into
Boston, are humbly of the opinion he, said Ebenezer Cutler, have the
privilege of said R solve. All which we submit to the Congress.

Not accepted, Edward Mitchell, Chairman.

In Provincial Congress, Watertown, May 23, 1775.

Whereas Ebenezer Cutler, of Northborough, hath been brought be-
fore this Congress, charged with endeavouring to subvert the Constitu-
tion, and by words, from time to time, for many months past, in various
places, stirring up the people to assist in the execution of the late Acts
of Parliament, encouraging the people not to submit to the measures
proposed by the Continental and Provincial Congresses for extricating
theso Colonies out of the difficulties brought upon them by the mea-
sures of the British Administration ; which charges, with others of the
like nature, being proved to be true, this Congress do adjudge the said
Ebenezer Cutler to be an implacable enemy to the liberties of his
Country : therefore,

Resolved, That the said Ebenezer be committed to close confinement

in the common Jail at , until the further order of this or a

future Congress ; and the keeper of said Jail is hereby directed to re-
ceive and detain him accordingly, and is hereby

directed to see that this Resolve b\i carried into execution,

Not accepted,

of them, shall have full power to procure, upon the credit
of this Colony, in the most frugal manner, as much Pro-
vision as they shall find necessary to support those poor
persons to the places of their destination ; and the said
Committee are further empowered to procure Teams to
carry such persons and their effects to those places ; and
if such Teams cannot be hired, to impress them for that
service ; and all the charges arising by the measures before
directed shall he paid out of the Donations to the Poor
of said Town of Boston, now in the hands of the Com-
mittee who were appointed to receive and dispose thereof;
and if that should be insufficient, the remainder shall be
paid by this Colony. And the Committee hereby ap-
pointed to the service aforesaid, are hereby directed to lay
before the next Congress an account of the charges arising
in pursuance of the above commission, that whatever shall
appear to be reasonable and just may be liquidated and
allowed.

Ordered, That Colonel Joseph Gushing, Mr. Ellis, and
Mr. Crane, be a Committee to fill up and deliver to the
Colonels of each Regiment the Commissions for the Offi-
cers of their respective Regiments, when said Committee
shall be notified by the Secretary of this Congress that
the Congress have approved of the persons to be commis-
sioned ; and that blank Commissions be put in the hands
of said Committee, properly authenticated, for that pur-
pose ; and that when said Commissions are filled up, they
be delivered by said Committee to the Colonel, on his ap-
plying for the same, he engaging he will not deliver such
Commissions to the respective Officers until they shall
have taken the oath appointed to be taken by them by
order of this Congress ; and that William Holden, Esq.,
be appointed to administer the oath to the Officers sta-
tioned at Roxbury, and James Prescott, Esquire, be ap-
pointed to administer the oath to the Officers stationed at
Cambridge.

The Committee appointed to prepare an Address to the
Inhabitants of the Massachusetts-Bay, relative to an issue
of Notes by said Colony, reported. The Address was read,
and accepted.

Thursday, May 25, 1775.
The Committee ordered to inspect the several Towns
and Districts' slocks of Powder, and consider what Towns
are well stocked, and what proportion they could spare for
the publick service, have attended that business, and beg
leave to report the following proportion, viz :

Suffolk County. Weston, barrels, 1

Roxbury, barrels, 3 Westford, " 0£

Medfield, " 1 Groton, " 1

Wrentham, " 4 Townsend, " 0$

Stoughton, " 2 Dracut, " 1

Medway, " 1 Stow, " 0£

Walpole, " 1 T „

Plymouth County.

Essex County. Bridgewater, barrels, 4

Marblehead, barrels, 3 Middleborougb, " 1

Newburyport, " 3

Newbury " 1 Worcester County.

Andover, " 2 Worcester, barrels, 1

Haverhill, " 2 Lancaster, * 1

Bradford, " 0J Mendon, " 2£

Boxford, " 0£ Brookfield, " 3

Oxford, " 1£

Middlesex County. Charlton, " 0£

Cambridge, barrels, 3 Sutton, " 2£

Charlestown, " 3f Leicester, " 1

Marlborough, " 3 Westborough, " l£

Framingham, " 2 Shrewsbury, 2£

Littleton, " 0£ Lunenburgh, 1

Chelmsford, " 1£ Bolton, " 1

Sudbury, « 2 TotaI> 68j

Daniel Thurston, per order.

Upon the foregoing Report,

Ordered, That the Committee who brought in said Re-
port be directed to bring in a Resolve in conformity there-
to, and that it be inserted in the Resolve that the Towns
shall be respectively paid for what Powder is drawn from
their several Towns stock, or have it replaced ; and that

821

MASSACHUSETTS PROVINCIAL CONGRESS, MAY, 1775.

822

eacli Town be notified of the quantity respectively to be
taken from its stock.

Samuel Freeman, Sec' y pro tern.

The Committee reported a Resolve, as directed ; which
was read and accepted, and is as follows, viz :

" Resolved, That there be draughted out of the Town
stocks of Powder, from each respective Town before
named, the quantity of Powder affixed to the name of
the Town, for the use of the Army, in the defence of the
Colony, and that it be replaced as soon as the slate of the
Colony Magazine will admit of it, or otherwise paid for in
money; and that the Selectmen of each Town be forth-
with served with an account of the draught made on their
Town, and that they immediately deliver it to the Com-
mittee of Supplies, or their order.

The Committee of Safety having represented to this
Congress that considerable difficulty exists in the adjust-
ment of General Ward's Regiment, in consequence of the
pretensions of Colonel Joseph Henshaw and Colonel Jona-
than Ward to the post of Lieutenant-Colonel in said Re-
giment, it was Ordered, That said representation, as also
the Memorial of Colonel Henshaw, setting forth his claims
to said post, be referred to a Committee. The Committee
having considered the matter, reported a Resolve ; which
was accepted, and is as follows :

Resolved, as the opinion of this Congress, That Colonel
Ward is best entitled to receive the Commission as Lieu-
tenant-Colonel of the Regiment, which right was disputed
by Lieutenant-Colonel Henshaw.

Ordered, That the Honourable Mr. Dexter be desired
to attend his duty on the Committee for countersigning the
Treasurer's Notes immediately.

Mr. Dexter transmitted the following Letter to the Con-
gress, which was read :

Dedham, May 25, 1775, P. M.

Honourable Gentlemen : I was under a necessity to
come home last evening. Had I been at Congress to-day,
and been as unwell as 1 am at present, I should have very
poorly performed my duty respecting the Notes. I found
myself so indisposed this morning that I ventured to con-
clude to tarry till to-morrow morning at home. I am in-
clined to attend the business, and, sick or well, will endea-
vour to be early at Waterlown for that purpose.

With much regard, I am, gentlemen, your very humble
servant, S. Dexter.

The Committee appointed to take into consideration the
Petition of several persons at Roxbury, reported verbally,
That it is the opinion of the Committee that the said Pe-
tition be sent to General Thomas, and that he be directed
to inquire into the causes of the complaint therein con-
tained, and take proper measures for their redress.

The Report was accepted.

The Committee to whom was referred an application
from the Officers of the Army respecting absconding Sol-
diers, reported. The Report was read and accepted, and
is as follows, viz :

Whereas application hath been made to this Congress,
by some of the Officers of the Army, that some effectual
method may be taken for the speedy return of absconding
Soldiers, or such as shall tarry beyond the time limited by
furlough :

Therefore, Resolved, That it be, and it hereby is recom-
mended to the Committees of Correspondence in the sev-
eral Towns and Districts in this Colony, or to the Select-
men, where no such Committees are appointed, that they
take effectual care that such absconding or delinquent Sol-
diers be immediately sent back to their respective Regi-
ments.

Friday, May 2G, 1775.

The Honourable Joseph Hawley, from the Committee
appointed to prepare a Letter to the Provincial Congress
of New-York, now sitting in that Colony, reported; the
Letter was accepted, and ordered to be forwarded. [See
Folio 715.]

The Committee to whom was referred the Letter of the
Honourable James Russell, reported the following Resolve,
which was accepted :

Resolved, That the Honourable James Russell, Esq., be,
and he hereby is directed, immediately to call in all the

publick Moneys committed to his care as Impost Officer,
and pay the same to Henry Gardner, Esq., the Receiver-
General of this Province.

It having been represented to this Congress, that it would
be agreeable to the inhabitants of the Colony of New'
Hampshire, that the Post-Rider on the road from Cam'
bridge to Haverhill should extend his route to the Town
of Exeter, to meet the Post-Rider from Portsmouth to that
place, and a Post-Office having been appointed at Exeter
by the inhabitants of Ncw-Hamyshire :

Resolved, That the route of the Post-Rider from Cam'
bridge be extended to said Exeter, so long as it shall
be found to be expedient, or until the Massachusetts or
New- Hampshire Congress, or future House of Represen-
tatives, shall otherwise order.

Whereas it appears to this Congress, that although divers
able-bodied and effective men who have enlisted into the
Massachusetts Army, are either not furnished with Arms
and Accoutrements, or with such only as are insufficient f r
use, yet that it will be for the publick service that such
men be accepted : therefore,

Resolved, That the Resolve of this Congress passed the
6th instant, be so far reconsidered, that the Muster-Mas-
ters be, and they hereby are directed to accept of all such
able-bodied and effective men, and muster them accordingly,
any thing contained in the aforementioned Resolve to the
contrary notwithstanding ; and the several Muster-Masters
be, and hereby are directed to make a return to this or
some future Congress, or House of Representatives, of the
names of such Soldiers as shall be found deficient in Arms
and Accoutrements, and also of the names of the Towns
to which they shall belong respectively.

Ordered, That a copy of the foregoing Resolution be
sent to each Muster-Master.

Upon a representation of the Committee of Safety that
Mr. Jonathan Brewer, of Waltham, has, contrary to the
orders of the said Committee, undertaken to enlist a Com-
pany of Rangers, has made use of artifices and impositions
to obtain said enlistments ; and that he has also seized and
retained possession of horses and certain real estate, the
private property of various individuals, and converted the
same to his own use, whereby he has disqualified himself
for the command of a Regiment; it was

Ordered, That the matter be referred to Dr. Perkins,
Mr. Kollock, and Mr. Rent.

The Committee appointed to consider of the charges
alleged against Mr. Jonathan Rrewer, by the honourable
Committee of Safety, having attended that service, beg
leave to report the defence of said Rrewer, viz : That he,
the said Rrewer, absolutely denies the charge of seducing
men belonging to other corps to enlist in his Regiment, or
any of the Companies thereof. As to the taking the horses
of Colonels Jones and Taylor, he acknowledges his thus
doing, and thinks himself justified therein, by furthering the
service of the Province in which he was engaged ; that he
had used them some time past in that way, and on Satur-
day last past had returned Jones's horse.

He also owns the leasing part of said Jones's estate, and
taking security, which security, he says, was in the keep-
ing of one Captain Rutler ; that he had proceeded in the
affair merely from a principle of saving the improvement of
one Mr. Jennison, (whose lands were contiguous to those
of said Jones,) and which were exposed, by a neglect of
said Jones in keeping up sufficient fences. Said Jennison
(as Rrewer says) supposing if he would thus dispose of
the above leased land to him, he could fence and improve
it without molestation. And that the Committee can pro-
ceed no further, unless they are enabled, by hearing the full
of the evidence supposed to support the complaint.

Per order: Richard Perkins, Chairman.

Monday, May 29, 1775.

The Committee to whom were referred the Papers re-
lating to Jonathan Rrewer, reported. The Report was
accepted, and is as follows, viz :

Resolved, That the Papers respecting Jonathan Rrewer
be transmitted by the Secretary to the Committee of Safe-
ty, to be by them acted upon in such a manner as they
think fit, so far as to determine on the expediency of re-
commending, or not recommending him, to this Congress,
as an Officer of the Army now raising in this Colony.

828

MASSACHUSETTS PROVINCIAL CONGRESS, MAY, 17:5.

821

RETURN OF COLONEL READ'S REGIMENT, MAY 18, 1775.

Joseph Read, Colonel ; Ebenczer Clapp, Lieutenant-Col-
onel; Calvin Smith, Major ; Hezekiah Chapman, Chap-
lain ; John llolden, Adjutant; William Jamison, Quar-
termaster; Levi Wiilard, Surgeon; Joseph A<
Surgeon's Mate.

Captains. Lieutenants. Ensigns.

Oliver Pond, \V. Messenger, Elias Bacon.

Samuel Payson, Royal Kollock, Enoch Hewens.
Andrew Peters, Levi Aldrich, William Daling.

William Briggs, Simeon Leach, Jed. Soutlnvorth.
Seth Bullard, Thomas Potter, Ezekiel Plympton.

Samuel Warren, Joseph Cody, Geo. Whipple.

David Bacheller, Benjamin Farrer, Robert Taft.
Samuel Cobb, Japheth Daniels, Amos Ellis.
Moses Knap, Nehemiah White, Benjamin Capron.

Edward Seagrove, Job Knapp, Peter Taft.

Officers, 30 ; Men, 561 ; Total, 594.

Watertown, May 24, 1775.

Received the Commissions for the officers above-men-
tioned. Joseph Read, Colonel.

GENERAL WARD'S REGIMENT.

Jonathan Ward, Lieutenant-Colonel ; Edward Barnes,
Major ; Timothy Bigelow, Second Major ; James Hart,
Adjutant ; William Boyd, Quartermaster.

Captains. Lieutenants. Ensigns.

Josiah Fay,

Seth Washburn, Joseph Livermore, Lowning Lincoln.

Job dishing, Ezra Beaman, Asa Rice.

Daniel Barnes, William Morse, Paul Brigham.

James Miller, Abel Perry, Aaron Abby.

Luke Drury, Asaph Sherman, Jonas Brown.

Jonas Hubbard, John Smith, William Gales.

Samuel Wood, Timothy Brigham, Thomas Seaver.

Moses Wheelock, Thomas Bond, Obadiah Mann.

Total, Officers and Privates, 440.

In Provincial Congress, Watertown, May 23, 1775.

Resolved, That Commissions be given out to General
Ward's Regiment, agreeable to the above List.

Saml. Freeman, Secretary pro tern.

COLONEL LEARNED's REGIMENT.

J. Danforth Keys, Lieutenant-Colonel ; Jonathan Holl-
man, Major ; Bannister, Adjutant.

Captains. Lieutenants. Ensigns.

Peter Harwood, Asa Danforth, Benjamin Pollard.

Adam Martin, Abel Mason, Benjamin Felton.

John Granger, Matthew Gray, Stephen Gorham.

Joel Greene, David Prouty, Thomas Fish.

Samuel Billings, Barnabas Sears, John Howard.

Win. Campbell, Reuben Davis, William Polly.

Arthur Doggett, Jonathan Caroll,

Nathaniel Healy, Salem Town,

Samuel Curtis, Samuel Learned,

Isaac Bolster, John Hasleton,

In Provincial Congress, Watertown, May 23, 1775.

Resolved, That Commissions be given to the Officers of
Col. Lcarned's Regiment, agreeable to the above list.

COLONEL WALKER'S REGIMENT, MAY 23, 1775.

Timothy Walker, Colonel ; Nathaniel Leonard, Lieutenant-
Colonel; Abel Mitchell, Major ; Mason Shaw, Adjutant;
Daniel Park, Surgeon ; Jacob Fuller, Quartermaster.

Captains. Lieutenants. Ensigns.

John Perry, John Paine, James Bucklin.

Silas Cobb, Isaac Smith, Isaac Fisher.

Macy Williams, Samuel Lane, John Cook.

Caleb Richardson, Enoch Robinson, Solomon Stanley.
Oliver Soaper, Simeon Cobb, Thomas Williams.
Saml. Tubbs, Jun., John Shaw, Joel Stubbs.

Samuel Bliss, Aaron Walker, Joseph Allen.

Francis Liscomb, Matthew Randall, Seth Pratt.
Peter Pitts, Zebedee Raidean, Henry Brit'

John King, Noah Hall, Abm. Hathaway.

Total, Officers and Privates, 562.

In Provincial Congress, May 21, 1775.

Ordered, That the Officers of Colonel Walker's Regi-
ment be commissioned, agreeable to the foregoing list.

Saml. Frekmw, Secretary .

COLONEL SCAMMON's REGIMENT, MAY 23, 1775.

Johnson Motion, Lieutenant-Colonel ; David Wood, Ma-
jor; George Madison, Adjutant ; Samuel Nasson, Quar-
termaster.

Captains. Lieutenants. Entign*.

Philip Hubbard, Jedediah Goodwin, James Roberts.

Jesse Dormon, Daniel Merit!, Joseph Pettingil.

Joshua Bragdon, Morgan Lues, Moses Sweet.

Samuel Darby, James Donnell, Joshua Frafton.

Jeremiah Hill, Samuel Merill, Peter Page.

Tobias Farrell, Thomas Cattes, Parker Foster.

Ebenezer Sullivan, Thomas Butler, Nathan Lord.

Jonathan Nowell, Thomas Nowell, Edward Low.

Samuel Sawyer, William Cupont, Jer. Littlefield.

Samuel Lather, William Furnell, William Frost.

Total rank and file, 512.

In Provincial Congress, Watertown, Juno 2, 1775.

Ordered, That Commissions be given to the Officers of
Colonel Scammon's Regiment, (except those Captains who
have already received their commissions,) agreeable to the
above list. Saml. Freeman, Secretary.

COLONEL PRESCOTT's REGIMENT, MAY 25, 1775.

William Prescotl, Colonel ; John Robinson, Lieutenant-
Colonel ; Henry Wood, Major ; William Green, Adju-
tant.

Captains. Captains. Captains.

Henry Farwell, Asa Lawrence, Abijah Wyman,

Hugh Maxwell, Elpt. Dinsmore, Timo. Woodward,

John Nutting, Samuel Patch, Joseph Moor.

Joshua Parker, Oliver Parker.

Total, Officers and Soldiers, 483.

Wm. Green, Adjutant.

In Provincial Congress, May 26, 1775.
Ordered, That Commissions be given to Colonel Wil-
liam Prescotl's Regiment, agreeable to the above list.

In Committee of Safety, Cambridge, June 22, 1775.

It is recommended to the honourable the Provincial
Congress, that Samuel Patch, in Colonel William Pres-
coit's Regiment, be commissioned as a Captain ; and
Zachary Walker and Joshua Brown, as Lieutenants in
said Company. Wm. Cooper, Secretary.

In Committee of Safety, Cambridge, June 23, 1775.
It is recommended to the honourable the Provincial

Congress, that the following Officers in Colonel Prescott's

Regiment be commissioned, viz :

Ebenezer Spalding First Lieutenant, Thomas Rogers Se-
cond Lieutenant, in Captain Parker's Company.

John Williams First Lieutenant, Thomas Spalding Second
Lieutenant, in Captain Lawrence's Company.

Benjamin Ball Second Lieutenant, in Captain Farwell's
Company.

John Mosher Second Lieutenant, in Captain Nutting's
Company.

Thomas Cummings Second Lieutenant, in Captain Wy-
man's Company.

Joseph Baker Second Lieutenant, in Captain Gilbert'*
Company. William Cooper, Secretary.

In Provincial Congress, Juno 25, 1775.

Ordered, That Commissions be delivered to the above
Officers. Attest: Saml. Freeman, Secretary.

colonel cotton's regiment, stationed in roxbury.

Staff' Officers. — Dr. William Thomas, Surgeon ; John
Thomas, Surgeon's Mate; John Cotton, Junior, Quar-
termaster ; Joshua Thomas, Adjutant.

825

MASSACHUSETTS PROVINCIAL CONGRESS, MAY, 1775.

826

Captain*.

Thomas Mayhew,
Earl Clap,
John Bradford,
John Brigham,
Joshua Benson,
Isaac Wood,
Peleg Wadsworth,
Amos Wade,
Jno. Bradford,
Edvv. Hammond,

Lieutenants.

Nathaniel Lewis,
Isaac Pope,
Jesse Sturtefant,
Edward Sparrow,

Win. Thompson,
Ahiel Townshend,
Seth Drew,
Archelaus Cole,
Andrew Sampson,
Timothy Ruggles,

Ensigns.

Benjamin Warren.
Charles Church.
Thomas Sampson.
Nehemiah Cobb.
James Smith.
Foxwell Thomas.
Joseph Sampson.
Lemuel Wood.
Judah Allen.
Nathan Sears.

Captains.

William Read,
Josiah Hayden,
Daniel Lothrop,
Elisha Crooker,

In Provincial Congress, Watertown, May 26, 1775.

Resolved, That Commissions be delivered the Officers
of Colonel Cotton's Regiment, agreeable to the above list.
Saml. Freeman, Secretary pro tern.

In Provincial Congress, May 27, 1775.

Ordered, That Commissions be delivered to Ichauod
Aldcn, Esquire, Lieutenant-Colonel, and Ebenezer Sprout,
Junior, Major, of Colonel Theophilus Cotton's Regiment.
Saml. Freeman, Secretary pro tern.

COLONEL FRV'S REGIMENT, MAY 26, 1775.

James Fry, Colonel ; James Brickctt, Lieutenant-Colonel ;
Thomas Poor, Major; Daniel Hardy, Adjutant ; Tho-
mas Kitteridge, Surgeon ; Benjamin Foster, Quarter-
master; Benjamin Varnum, Surgeon's Mate.

Lieutenants.

5 Benj. Farnham,
I Samuel Johnson,

David Chandler, Isaac Abbot.

Nathaniel Herrick, Eliphalet Bodwill.

John Robinson, Benjamin Pearly.

Thomas Stickney, Eliphalet Hardy.

Timothy Johnson, Nathaniel Eaton.

Captains.

Thomas Poor,

Ensigns.

Cyrus Marble.

Benjamin Ames,
John Davis,
William Pearly,
Nathaniel Gage,
James Sawyer,
Jonathan Evans,
John Courier,
Jonas Richardson,
William Hudson,

Whole number,

John Merritt,
Wells Chasse,
.... Fox,
Ballard Foller,

556.

Reuben Evans.
Reed.

In Provincial Congress, Juno 8, 1775.

Ordered, That a Commission be delivered to Thomas
Poor, Esquire, as Major of the Regiment of Colonel Fry.

Saml. Freeman, Secretary.

colonel Patterson's regiment.

Field Officers. — John Patterson, Colonel ; Seth Read,

Lieutenant-Colonel ; Jeremiah Cady, Major.
Staff Officers not returned.

Captains. Lieutenants. Ensigns.

Samuel Shelton, John Bacon, Nahum Powers.

William Wyman, Samuel Chapin, Enos Parker.

Joseph Moss, William Boudin,

Samuel Sloan, Zebediah Sabins,

Charles Dibbell, Simeon Smith, Peter White.

William Goodrich, David Pixley,

David Noble, Joseph Wilche, Josiah Wright.

Thomas Williams, Orange Stoddard, Ashley.

Nathan Watkins, William Clark, Samuel Wilcocks.

Total, 496.

In Provincial Congress, May 27, 1775.

Ordered, That Commissions be delivered to the Offi-
cers of Colonel Patterson's Regiment, agreeable to the
above list. Saml. Freeman, Secretary.

GENERAL JOHN THOMAs's REGIMENT.

John Bayley, Jun., Lieutenant-Colonel ; Thomas Mitchell,
John Jacobs, Majors ; Lemuel Cushing, Surgeon ; Clad
Hitchcock, Surgeon's Mate ; Luther Bayley, Adjutant ;
Adam Bayley, Quartermaster.

Captains. Lieutenants. Ensigns.

James Allen, Jacob Allen, Perez Warren.

Amos Turner, Prince Studson, Joshua Barstow.
Saml. Stockbridge, Atwood Motte, Caleb Nicholson.
Nathl. Winslow, Joshua Jacobs, Nathl. Chitonson.
Fred. Chamberlain, John Turner, Jr., John Seavill.
Eleazer Hamblin, Amos Shaw, Increase Robinson.

Lieutenants. Ensigns.

Samuel Brown, Solomon Shaw.
Zachariah Gurney, Joseph Cole, Jr.
Ephraim Jackson, Abner Howard.
Jacob Rogers.

Total, Officers and Privates, 596.

COLONEL BRIDGE S REGIMENT.

Moses Parker, Lieutenant-Colonel ; John Brooks, Major ;
Joseph Fox, Adjutant.

Lieutenants. Ensigns.

Elijah Danforth, John Levis.

Eben. Damon, James Bancroft.

Josiah Foster, Eben. Varnum.

Benjamin Walker, John Flint, Eben. Fitch.
Eben. Bancroft, Nathaniel Holman, Samuel Brown.

John Ford, Isaac Parker, Jonas Parker.

Captains.

John Stickney,
John Batchelder,
Peter Coburn,

In Provincial Congress, Watertown, May 27, 1775.

Ordered, That Commissions be given to the Officers of
Colonel Bridge's Regiment, agreeable to the above named
list. Saml. Freeman, Secretary pro tern.

colonel Mansfield's regiment.

Captains.

Ezra Newell,
Enoch Putnam,
Ebenezer Francis,
Asa Prince,
Benjamin Kimball,
Thomas Barnes,
Adn. Richardson,
John Low,
Gideon Foster,
Nathan Brown,

Lieutenants.

Zadock Buffington,
John Dodge,
James Bancroft,
John Upton,
Job Whipple,
Nathaniel Cleaves,
Francis Fox,
Stephen Wilkins,
Bill. Porter,
Ephraim Emerson,

Ensigns.

John Reese.
Benjamin Craft.
James Matthews.
Simeon Tufts.
Benjamin Gardner.
Joseph Herrick.
Frederick Breed.
Archel. Batchelor.
Harfail White.
. . . . Downing.

In Provincial Congress, May 27, 1775.

Ordered, That Commissions be delivered to the Cap-
tains of Colonel Mansfield's Regiment, agreeable to the
above list. Saml. Freeman, Secretary pro tern.

In Provincial Congress, June 7, 1775.

Ordered, That Commissions be delivered to the Offi-
cers, Lieutenants, and Ensigns of Col. Mansfield's Regi-
ment, agreeable to the above list.

Saml. Freeman, Secretary pro tern.

colonel danielson's regiment, may 27, 1775.

Timothy Danielson, Colonel ; William Shepherd, Lieute-
nant-Colonel ; David Leonard, Major ; William Too-
good, Adjutant ; William Young, Quartermaster ; Da-
vid Shephard, Surgeon.

Captains. Lieutenants. Ensigns.

Sylvanus Walker, Esau Coburn,

Enos Chapin, Samuel Flower, Luke Day.

Joseph Thompson, Caleb Keep, John Carpenter.

Warham Parks, J. Shepperd, Jr., Richard Falley.
Libbeus Ball, Samuel Bancroft, Levy Dunham.

Paul Langdon, Daniel Cadwell,

Gideon Burst,

John Farguison, David Hambleton,

Jonathan Bardwell, William Gillmore, Moses How.

In Provincial Congress, May 27, 1775.

Ordered, That Commissions be given to Col. Timothy
Danielson's Regiment, agreeable to the above list.

Saml. Freeman, Secretary pro tern.

COLONEL FELLOWs's REGIMENT, MAY 31, 1775.

Field Officers. — John Fellows, Colonel; Nathan Eager,
Lieutenant-Colonel ; Benjamin Tupper, Major.

( 'a plains.

William King,
Jonathan Allen,
Israel Chapin,
William Baron,

Lieutenants.

Samuel Brewer,
Oliver Lyman,
Perez Bardwell,
John Hubbard,

Ensigns.

Gamaliel Whiting.
Jonathan Stearns.
William Watson.
Michael Loomis.

827

MASSACHUSETTS PROVINCIAL CONGRESS, MAY, 1775.

828

Captain*.

Moses Soul,
Robert Webster,
Ebr. Pomeroy,
Abel Thayer,

/tenants.

Noah Allen,
Christ. Banister,
.... Wallis,
Joseph Warner,

Solomon Deming.
Everton Bostwick.
Daniel Kirkland.

Samuel Allen.

Ebenezer Webber, S. Bartlett,

Simeon Hazelton, George Blake,

Total Officers and Soldiers, 548.

In Provincial Congress, Wutertown, June 7, 1775.
Ordered, That Commissions be delivered to the Offi-
cers of Colonel Fcllows's Regiment, agreeable to the above
list. Saml. Freeman, Secretary.

COLONEL THOMAS GARDNER S REGIMENT.

Lieut. Colonel ; Michael Jackson, Major.

Lieutenants. Ensigns.

, William Maynard, Joseph Muier.
Josiah Warren, Aaron Richardson.
Nathan Smith, John George.
Caleb Brooks, Samuel Cutter.
BarlholomewTrow /Thomas Miller.
Josiah Swan, John Child.

Solomon Bowman, Jedediah Thayer.
Ebenezer Brattle, Stephen Frost.

William Bond,

Captains.

Thomas Downy
Phineas Cook,
Nathan Fuller,
Isaac Hall,
Josiah Harris,
Abner Craft,
Abijah Child,
Benjamin Lock,

Moses Draper,

Nailor Hatch,

The Committee of Safety hereby certify the honourable
Congress, that they approve the above named Officers, and
recommend it to the honourable Congress, that they be
commissioned accordingly.

William Cooper, Secretary.

In Provincial Congress, Watertown, June 2, 1775.

Ordered, That Commissions be delivered to the Offi-
cers of Colonel Gardner's Regiment, agreeable to the
above list. Saml. Freeman, Secretary.

Camp No. 2, Cambridge, June 30, 177.">.

This may certify, that we, the subscribers, being chosen
Officers of a Minute Company, in Bolton, have taken or-
ders to raise a Company in the present Army ; and having
fifty-three able-bodied, effective men, fit for service, in our
Company, and having done duty in Colonel Whitcomb's
Regiment from our first taking out orders, we desire that
we may be commissioned under the above said Colonel,
which was the expectation of the Company.

Benjamin Hastings, Captain.

Jonathan Haughton, Lieutenant.

Jonathan Meriam, Second Lieutenant .
To the Honourable the Provincial Congress.

In Committee of Safety, Cambridge, June 30, 1775.

It is recommended to the honourable the Provincial
Congress, that Samuel West, above named, be commis-
sioned as Second Lieutenant, in Captain Abner Cranston's
Company, in Colonel Asa Whitcomb's Regiment.

William Cooper, Secretary.

colonel doolittle's regiment, JUNE 12, 1775.

Captains.

Joel Fletcher,
Adam Wheeler,
John Holman,
John Jones,
Robert Oliver,

Abel Wilder, Jonas Allen,

Lieutenants.

John Wheeler,
Elijah Stearns,
John Bowkin,

Samuel Thompson,

Thomas Grover, Abraham Pennel.

Ensigns.

Jonas Proctor.
Adam Maynard.
David Poor.

Daniel Pike.

In Committee of Safety, Cambridge, Juno 12, 1775.

The within mentioned Captains and Subalterns in Col.
Doolittle's Regiment are recommended to be commissioned.
Benjamin White, Chairman.

In Provincial Congress, June 12, 1775.

Ordered, That Commissions be delivered to the Offi-
cers of Col. Doolittle's Regiment, agreeable to the above
list. Samuel Freeman, Secretary.

COLONEL ASA WHITCOMb's REGIMENT, JUNE 3, 1775.

Captains.

John Fuller,
Eph. Richardson,
James Burt,
David Wilder,
Andrew Haskell,
Robert Langley,
Agrippa Wells,
Jonathan Davis,
Abner Cranston,
Edmond Bemis,

Lieutenants.

Ebenezer Bridge,
Seth Hay ward,
Ebenezer Woods,
Jonathan Quits,
John Kindrick,
Sylvanus Smith,
Jacob Poole,
Elisha Fallum,
John Wyman,
John Hore,

Ensigns.

Jared Smith.
Ephraim Boynton.
Jabez Keep.
Timothy Boutall.
Jonathan Sawyer.
Ephraim Smith.
Ezekiel Foster.
John Meed.
Benjamin West.
David Foster.

In Committee of Safety, Cambridge, June 9, 1775.

We recommend to the honourable the Provincial Con-
gress, that the within Officers, belonging to Colonel Whit-
comb's Regiment, may be commissioned, if the Congress
have no objection. Benjamin White, Chairman.

In Congress, Juno 10, 1775.

Resolved, That the gentlemen above named be com-
missioned. Jas. Warren.

Cambridge, June 30, 1775.

A list of the Staff Officers and Commissioned Officers, in
Col. Asa Whitcomb's Regiment, not commissioned.

Staff. — Jeremiah Gage, Adjutant ; Jeremiah Laughton,
Quartermaster ; William Dunsmore, Doctor.

Samuel West, Second Lieutenant in Captain Abner
Cranston's Company, in the place of him that was killed at
the fight at Charlestown.

N. B. I have a full Regiment, exclusive of Benjamin
Hastings, who has fifty-three in his Company ; and he has
done duty with me, and declines joining any other Regi-
ment ; and I desire that the Officers of that Company, viz :
Benjamin Hastings, Captain ; Jonathan Haughton, Lieu-
tenant ; Jonathan Meriam, Second Lieutenant, may be
commissioned, and join my Regiment.

Asa Whitcomb.

COLONEL WOODBRIDGE's REGIMENT, JUNE 16, 1775.

Abijah Brown, Lieutenant-Colonel ; William Stacy, Major.

Captains. Lieutenants. Ensigns.

Reubn. Dickinson, Zaccheus Croaker, Dal. Shay.
Noadiah Leonard, Zariah Smith, Samuel Gould.

Stephen Pearl, Aaron Rowley, Abner Pease.

'David Cowden,

John Cowls,

Ichabod Dexter, Tho. Goodenough, John Mayo.

John King,

Seth Murray Total, 363.

In Committee of Safety, Cambridge, June 21, 1775.
Colonel Woodbridge having satisfied this Committee
that the above eight Companies are in good forwardness,
it is recommended to the honourable Congress that said
Regiment be commissioned accordingly.

Benjamin White, Chairman.

In Provincial Congress, June 21, 1775.

Ordered, That Commissions be delivered to the Officers
of Col. Woodbridge's Regiment, agreeable to the above
list. Samuel Freeman, Secretary.

In Committee of Safety, Cambridge, July 3, 1775.

It is recommended to the honourable the Provincial Con-
gress, that Asa Barnes be commissioned as a Captain in
Col. Woodbridge's Regiment, Caleb Smith as Lieutenant
in said Company, Timothy Bead as Second Lieutenant;
also William Smith as Third Lieutenant, and Oliver Wag-
get as Second Lieutenant in Captain King's Company, of
said Woodbridge's Regiment.

William Cooper, Secretary.

COLONEL JOHN GLOVER'S REGIMENT, JUNE 15, 1775.

Captiins.

William Lee,
William Curtis,
William Bacon,
Thomas Grant,

Lieutenants.

John Glover,
Robert Harris,
William Mills,
William Bubier,

Ensigns.

Edward Archibald.
Thomas Courts.
Suard Lee.
Ebenezer Graves.

829

MASSACHUSETTS PROVINCIAL CONGRESS, MAY, 1775.

880

Captains.

Joel Smith,
Nich. Broughton,
William Bleeker,
John Merritt,
John Selmon,
Francis Simonds,

Lieutenants.

John Bray,
John Stacey,
Nathaniel Clark,
Joshua Prentice,
Isaac Collyer,
William Russell,

Ensigns.

Joshua Orne.
J. Devereaux, Jr.
Nathaniel Pearce.
Robert Nimblett.
Edward Hoi man.
George Lignerass.

Total number of men, 505.

In Committee of Safety, Cambridge, June 22, 1775.

The above Officers being approved of by this Committee,
are recommended to the honourable Congress to be com-
missioned. N. Gushing, per order.

In Provincial Congress, June 23, 1775.

Ordered, That the Officers in the above list be com-
missioned, except Captain William Lee, his Lieutenant,
and Ensign. Sam. Fheeman, Secretary.

COLONEL NIXON'S REGIMENT.

Captains. Lieutenants. Ensigns.

Thomas Drury, William Maynard, James Muier.
Samuel McCobb, Benjamin Patten, John Briggs.

John Nixon, Colonel.

In Committee of Safety, Cambridge, June 16, 1775.

The above Officers are approved of, and recommended
to the honourable Congress to be commissioned.

Benjamin White, Chairman.

In Provincial Congress, June 15, 1775.

Ordered, That Commissions be delivered out to the
above named Officers, in Colonel Nixon's Regiment.

Attest : Sam. Freeman, Secretary.

In Provincial Congress, June 16, 1775.

Ordered, That Commissions be delivered to the follow-
ing Officers in Colonel Nixon's Regiment, viz : Ebenezer
IV'unhip, Captain; William Warren, Lieutenant ; Richard
Buckminster, Ensign. Sam. Freeman, Secretary.

COLONEL JONATHAN BREWEr's REGIMENT.

William Buckminster, Lieutenant-Colonel ; Nathan. Cud-
worth, Major.

Captains. Lieutenants. Ensigns.

Isaac Gray, Thos. Willington, .... Wilson.

Edward Blake, Abm. Tuckeman, John Errhes.

John Black, Benjamin Gates, John Patrick.

Daniel Whiting, Obadiah Dewey,

Thaddeus Russell, Nathl. Maynard, Nathaniel Reeves.

Aaron Haynes, Elisha Brewer,

Benjamin Bullard, Aaron Gardiner,

Joseph Stebbins,

Total number of men, 371. J. Brewer, Colonel.

In Committee of Safety, Cambridge, June 17, 1775.

Colonel Jonathan Brewer having satisfied this Com-
mittee that there are three hundred and twenty-one men
in the eight Companies mentioned above, it is recommend-
ed to the honourable Provincial Congress that said Brew-
er's Regiment may be commissioned accordingly.

Wm. Cooper, Secretary.

In Provincial Congress, Juno 17, 1775.

Ordered, That a Commission be delivered to each of the
Officers within named, except Capt. Joseph Stebbins, who
has but twenty-one men in his Company.

Sam. Freeman, Secretary.

COLONEL ROBINSON S REGIMENT.

Captains.

William Bent,
Silas Wild,
Elijah Vose,
Jacob Gould,

Captains.

Job Cushing,
Jotham Loring,
James Lincoln,
Seth Turner,

Captains.
John Vinton,
Peter Procrit,
Truant Brantry.

Total, rank and file, 466.

Captains.

Amos Waldridge,
Peter Ingersoll,
Levi Rounsevall,
Malcomb Henry,
Jonathan Danforth,
Isaac Colton,
Jona. Bardwell,
Abiathar Angel,
John Packard,

COLONEL DAVID BREWEr's REGIMENT, JUNE 17, 1775.

Rufus Putnam, Lieutenant-Colonel; Nathaniel Daniel-
son, Major; Thomas Weeks, Adjutant; Ebenezer Wash-
burn, Quartermaster.

Lieutenants.

Ithiel Mungar,
Silas Goodrich,
Henry Rice,
John Gray,
Joseph McNall,
John Wright,
William Gillmore
Isaac Warren,
David Brewer,
David

Ensigns.

James Blodgett.

Thomas Burnham.

Lemuel Taber.

David Lackett.

Lewis Boen.

Nathl. Alexander.
, Moses Howe.

Simeon Learned.

Jonathan Allen.
Brewer, Colonel.

In Committee of Safety, Cambridge, Juno 17, 1775.

These certify the Honourable Congress, that Colonel
David Brewer has satisfied this Committee that there are
in the nine Companies mentioned near five hundred men.
It is therefore recommended to Congress that said Brewer's
Regiment be commissioned accordingly.

Wm. Cooper, Secretary.

In Provincial Congress, June 17, 1775.

Ordered, That Commissions be delivered to the several
Officers above mentioned. Sam. Freeman, Secretary.

COLONEL GERRISH's REGIMENT, JUNE 22, 1775.

Loammi Baldwin, Lieut. Colonel ; James Wessen, Major ;
Christian Ftbiger, Adjutant ; Michael Farley, Quarter-
master; David Jones, Surgeon.

Captains. Lieutenants. Ensigns.

Richard Dodge, Robert Dodge, Paul Dodge.
Barnabas Dodge, Matthew Fairfield, Joseph Knight.
Thomas Cogswell, Moses Danton, Amos Cogswell.
Timothy Corey, Thos. Cummings, Jonas Johnson.
Samuel Sprague, Joseph Cheever, William Oliver.
John Baker, Jr., Joseph Pettingill, Mark Cressy.

Thomas Mighill, Thomas Pike,

Samuel Gerrish, Colonel.

In Committee of Safety, Cambridge, June 22, 1775.

It is recommended to the honourable Congress that the
above mentioned Officers in Colonel Gerrish's Regiment,
not already commissioned, may now receive their Com-
missions. William Cooper, Secretary.

COLONEL MOSES LITTLE'S REGIMENT, JUNE 26, 1775.

Isaac Smith, Lieutenant-Colonel ; James Collins, Major.

Second Lieutenants.

Thomas Brown.
Daniel Collins.
Aaron Parker.
James Lord.

Captains. First Lieutenants.

Jacob Gerrish, Silas Adams,
Nathaniel Warner, John Burman,
Nathaniel Wade, Joseph Wedkins,
Abraham Dodge, Ebenezer Low,
John Baker, Caleb Thompson, Daniel Draper.

Ezra Lunt, Moses Kent, N. Montgomery.

Benjamin Perkins, James Whittemore, William Stickney.
Gideon Parker, Joseph Everly, Moses Trask.
Joseph Robey, Shubael Gorham, Enoch Parsons.
Timothy Brinard, Paul Lunt, Amos Atkinson.

Total number of men, 582.

In Committee of Safety, June 26, 1775.

This Committee recommend to the honourable the Pro-
vincial Congress that the above named Officers, in Colonel
Little's Regiment, may be commissioned.

Wm. Cooper, Secretary.

In Provincial Congress, Juno 27, 1775.

Ordered, That Commissions be delivered to the Officers
of Colonel Little's Regiment, agreeable to the above list.
Attest : Sam. Freeman, Secretary.

Cambridge Camp, June 30, 1775.

To the Honourable Provincial Congress at Watertown :
Mr. Stephen Jenkins and Mr. Thomas Hodgkins are
recommended, the former for Adjutant, and the latter for
Quartermaster, in the Regiment of which I have the com-
mand, and the honourable Congress are prayed to appoint
those gentlemen to said offices accordingly.

Moses Little, Colonel.
Accepted and passed.

831

CORRESPONDENCE, PROCEEDINGS, &c, MAY, 1775.

832

MEETING OF FREEHOLDERS OF RICHMOND COUNTY,
NEW-YORK.

At a meeting of the Freeholders of the County of Rich-
mond, at Richmond Town, in the said County, on the first
day of May, in the year of our Lord 1775, agreeable to a
publick notice of such meeting:

Benjamin Seaman, Esquire, Chairman,
Paul Micheau, Citric.

The Freeholders of the said County, taking into consi-
deration the distressed and alarming state of the Colonies,
and the necessity of a Provincial Congress, did unanimous-
ly elect and appoint .Messrs. Paul Micheau, John Journey,
Aaron Cortclyou, Richard Conner, and Richard Laie-
rence, or the major part of them, to represent the said
County of Richmond at the next Provincial Congress in-
tended to be held in the City of New- York on the 22d
day of May instant.

Signed by order of the said Freeholders :

Paul Micheau, Clerk of County of Richmond.

RICHMOND (NEW-YORK) COMMITTEE TO COMMITTEE OF
NEW-YORK.

Richmond County, May 2, 1775.
Gentlemen : Yours of the 28th ultimo we received,
and, agreeable to your request, convened the Freeholders
of the County of Richmond yesterday, to consider of the
alarming and dangerous situation the Province is in, being
fully persuaded that no time should be lost, as every hour
threatens us with inevitable ruin. The necessity of the
case requires we should unite in forming a Provincial Con-
gress, and appoint Deputies without delay. The said
Freeholders were unanimously of opinion, that the present
exigency of affairs required their adopting the measures
recommended by your Committee, and appointed us, the
subscribers, for that purpose, who will give our attendance
accordingly.

We are, gentlemen, your very humble servants,

Paul Micheau, Richard Conner,
John Journey, Richard Lawrence.

Aaron Cortelyou,

To Mr. Isaac Low, Chairman of the Committee of New-
York.

MEETING OF INHABITANTS OF ORANGETOWN, NEW-YORK.

At a meeting of the Freeholders and Inhabitants of
Orangctoum, in the County of Orange, at the house of
Mr. Yoast Mabie, in the said Town, on Wednesday, the
third day of May, A. D. 1 775 :

Jacob Conklin, Esquire, Chairman,
Dr. Thomas Outwater, Clerk.
Resolved, nem. con., That Colonel Abraham Lent and
John Haring, Esquire, be the Deputies for this Town, to
represent us at the Provincial Congress proposed to be held
in the City of New- York on the 22d day of this instant,
and that we will abide by and observe such measures as
the said Congress shall, from time to time, direct or re-
commend. By order of the meeting :

Jacob Conklin, Chairman.
Thomas Outwater, Clerk.

MEETING OF COMMITTEES OF SUFFOLK COUNTY, NEW-YORK.

At a meeting of the several Committees of Correspond-
ence from the different Towns in the County of Suffolk,
at the County Hall, the 5th of May, 1775 :
William Smith, Chairman.

The letter from the Chairman of the Committee of Cor-
respondence of New- York, recommending to this County
to choose Deputies to meet Deputies from all the Counties
in this Province in General Congress, in the City of New-
York, on Monday, 22d of May instant, being read,

Voted, nem. con., That Colonel Nathaniel K'oodhull,
John Sloss Hobart, Thomas Trediccll, John Foster, Ezra
L'Hommedicu, Thomas Wickham, and James Havens, or
any three of them, be Deputies for this County, who are
hereby fully empowered to meet the Deputies from the
other Counties in this Province, in Provincial Congress, in

New-York or elsewhere, on the 22d day of this instant,
to deliberate upon, and, from time to time, to direct such
measures as shall be expedient for our common safety, and
the preservation of our rights and privileges; the said
Deputies to act for one year, unless pence and harmony
between the Colonies and Great Britain be sooner re-
stored, or other persons chosen in their stead.
Signed by order of the Committee:

Wm. Smith, Chairman.

SUFFOLK COUNTY (nEW-YORk) COMMITTEE TO COMMITTEE
OF BROOKHAVEN.

County Hall, May 5, 1775.

Gentlemen: We beg leave to inform you that the
Committees from the several Towns in this County, here
met, have chosen seven persons to represent this County
at the Provincial Congress, to be held at New-York the
23d of this instant, and should be glad of your concurrence
therein. The Association Agreement, so generally entered
into in New- York by all parties, is herewith sent to you,
hoping you will sign the same, and take such measures as
you judge proper to let the inhabitants of your Town have
an opportunity to sign. If your Town approve of our
choice, you will signify it to one of the Deputies, and if
you think proper to choose a Deputy, it will be very agree-
able to this Committee. By order of the Committee :

Wm. Smith, Chairman.
To Captain Nathan Woodhull, Richard Woodhull, Jona-
than Thompson, John Woodhull, Selah Strong, Tho-
mas Helmes, Esquires, Major Benjamin Floyd, and Mr.
Samuel Thompson, of Rrookhaven.

WESTCHESTER COUNTY (NEW- YORk) COMMITTEE.

We, who are this day appointed as a Committee for the
County of Westchester, do certify that Gouvcrneur Morris.
Lewis Graham, James Van Cortlandt ,■ Stephen Ward.
Joseph Drake, Philip Van Cortlandt, James Holmes,
David Dayton, John Thomas, Junior, Robert Graham,
and William Paulding, were chosen to be the Deputies
from this County to the Provincial Convention of the
Province of New- York.

Witness our hands, the eighth day of May, in the year
of our Lord one thousand seven hundred and seventy-five.
Gilbert Drake, Chairman.

David Dan,
James Harmer,
Micali Townscnd,
Lewis Morris,
Samuel Crawford,
F. Van Cortlandt,
Benjamin Lyon,
Miles Oakley,

Jona. G. Tompkins,
Jona. G. Graham,
Jonathan Piatt,
Gilbert Thorn,
James Varian,
Robert Bloomer,
William Miller,

Thomas Thomas,
George Comb,
Samuel Drake,
Michael 1 1 :t \s.
Benoni Piatt,
Samuel Haviland,
Joshua Ferris.

MEETING OF THE FREEHOLDERS OF GOSHEN PRECINCT,
NEW-YORK.

At a meeting of the Freeholders and Inhabitants of the
Precinct of Goshen, in the County of Orange, and Colony
of New- York, assembled at the house of Mr. Isaac Nicoll.
Inn-holder, in the Town of Goshen, on Wednesday, the
10th day of May, 1775:

Peter Clowes, Chairman.
Resolved, unanimously, That as the present critical
situation of affairs makes it necessary for a Provincial Con-
gress to be held, that Michael Jackson, Peter Clowes,
Benjamin Tusten, and William Allison, or any two of
them, do attend therein at the City of New- York, on the
22d day of this instant, May, as Delegates for this Pre-
cinct. By order of the meeting :

Balth. De Heart, Clerk.

MEETING OF COMMITTEES OF ULSTER COUNTY, NEW-YORK.

At a meeting of the Committees of the several Towns
and Precincts in the County of Ulster, elected and ap-
pointed to meet in Provincial Convention, at the City of
New-York, on the 22d day of May instant, or at such
other time and place as may be agreed on, held at Neiv-
Paltz, at the house of Mrs. Ann Dubois, in the County
aforesaid, the 11th day of May, 1775, the following per-

833

CORRESPONDENCE, PROCEEDINGS, &c, MAY, 1775.

834

sons appeared as Committees for the different Towns and
Precincts, viz :

Kingston. — Abraham Van Keuren, Johannes Snyder,
Esquire, Egbert Dumond, Esquire, Oke Sudam, Ja-
cobus Van Goesbeck.

Awsley. — Adrian Wynkoop, Esquire, Captain John Van
Dcusen, Matthew Ten Eyck, Charles De Witt, Esq.

Marbletown. — Matthew Cantine, Levi Pawling, John
Cantine, David Bevier, Cornelius E. Wynkoop, Esqr's.

Rochester. — Andries De Witt, Esq., Jacob Hornbeck,
Esq., Johannes Schoonmaker, Joachim Schoonmaker,
Jacobus Van Wagenon, Andries Sevier.

Wallkill. — William Wilkin, Francis Byrns.

New-Windsor. — Captain James M. Claghry, John Ni-
colson, Esquire, Colonel James Clinton.

Newburgh. — Col. Jonathan Hasbrouck, John Robinson,
Benjamin Birdsell.

New-Marlborough. — Lewis Du Bois, Benjamin Car-
penter, Esq., Joseph Morey.

New-Paltz. — Jacob Hasbrouck, Joseph Hasbrouck, Jo-
hannes A. Hardenbergh, Andries Lafever, Esquire,
Abraham Donaldson, Esquire.

Shawangunk. — Jacobus Bruyn, Johan. Jansen, Matthew
Rea, Benj. Smedes, Esquires, Capt. Thomas Jansen, Jr.,
Major Johannes Hardenbergh, Dirck Roosa.

Hanover. — Dr. Charles Clinton, Alexander Trimble,
Arthur Parks, William Jackson, Abimael Young.

Charles De Witt, Esquire, being unanimously chosen
and appointed Chairman, the business of the day was open-
ed, when Colonel Johannes Hardenbergh, Colonel James
Clinton, Egbert Dumond, Esquire, Dr. Charles Clinton,
Christopher Tappen, John Nicolson, and Jacob Horn-
beck, Esquires, were nominated, and unanimously chosen
and appointed Deputies for the said County, to serve in
Provincial Convention, at the City of New- York, on the
22d day of May instant, or at such other time and place
as may be agreed on, in order to adopt and endeavour to
carry into execution whatever measures may be recom-
mended by the Continental Congress, or resolved upon by
our Provincial Convention, for the purpose of preserving
our Constitution, and opposing the execution of the several
arbitrary and oppressive acts of the British Parliament,
until a reconciliation between Great Britain and America,
on constitutional principles, can be obtained ; with such
further power to declare the sense of this County relative
to the grievances and oppressions under which His Majes-
ty's American subjects now groan, and to consult such
measures as may tend to the preservation of the rights and
liberties of America. And the Deputies hereby appointed
are instructed (when met in Provincial Convention) to
move that a day be set apart for publick fasting and prayer
throughout the Colony, to implore Divine aid in restoring
a happy reconciliation between the Mother Country and
her American Colonies.

Ordered, That the proceedings of this day be signed
by the Chairman, and that the same be published in the
New-York Journal. Ch. De Witt, Chairman.

To Col. Johannes Hardenbergh, Col. James Clinton, Eg-
bert Dumond, Esq., Dr. Charles Clinton, Christopher
Tappen, John Nicolson, and Jacob Hornbeck, Esqr's.

MEETING OF FREEHOLDERS OF HAVERSTRAW (NEW-YORK)
PRECINCT.

Whereas, it is proposed that a Provincial Convention of
Deputies, from the different Cities and Counties in this
Province, should meet in the City of New- York, on the
22d day of this instant, in order to deliberate and direct
such measures as may be thought necessary for the pre-
servation of our rights and liberties, we, the freeholders
and inhabitants of the Precinct of Haverstraw, in the
County of Orange, being met, do unanimously choose
John Coe and David Pye as Deputies to represent the
said Precinct, and do authorize and empower the said
John Coe and David Pye to represent the said Precinct
in the said Convention, and to act, transact, and direct all
such measures as shall be thought necessary for the pur-
poses aforesaid. By order of the said meeting :

Johannes Isa Blanvelt, Moderator.

May 12, 1775.

MEETING OF CHARLOTTE COUNTY (NEW-YORK) COM-
MITTEE.

At a meeting of the Committee in the Townships of
White-Creek, Camden, Adingtovm, Manchester, Dorset,
Rupert, Pollett, and Wells, in the County of Charlotte,
Province of New-York, for choosing two Delegates to
meet at the Convention at New-York, the 22d instant:
Be it known, that John Williams and IVilliam Marsh
were elected for the purpose above mentioned, as witness
our hands, this 12th day of May, 1775.
Signed by the Committee :

Hamilton McCallister, Jon a. Willard,
John Williams, Smith Smith,

William Marsh, Caleb Smith,

Joshua Conkey, Jos. McCracken,

Nathan Hawley, John Batus,

Samuel Rose, James Heard,

John Nesbett, Cephas Kent.

Fourth Series. — Vol. ii. 53

MAMICOTING COMMITTEE TO NEW-YORK CONGRESS.

May 13, 1775.

The inhabitants of the Precinct of Mamicoting met to-
gether, and chose a Committee ; likewise they all signed
the Association, and are determined to stand by the same.
And whereas we were destitute of militia officers hitherto,
the following officers were chosen, viz : Jacob Rutson De
Witt, Captain ; Abraham Cuddeback, Junior, First Lieu-
tenant ; Robert Cook, Second Lieutenant ; Samuel King,
Ensign. We, the Committee, do think it proper to send
you the account of our proceedings. Although Benja-
min Depuy, Esquire, of our Precinct, joined the County
Committee, yet it was before we were formed into a Com-
mittee.

Whereas, we are a frontier Company, if an Indian war
should happen to break out, difficulties may arise by the
officers lacking authority: we therefore petition the gen-
tlemen of the Congress that the nominated officers may be
authorized to act as in commission. And whereas, there
are several poor men in our Precinct, who are able and
willing to fight for their rights and liberty, and not capable
of providing themselves either with arms or ammunition :
we, therefore, further petition that you, gentlemen, will
take it into consideration, and provide for such poor people;
and you will oblige your humble petitioners. By order of
the Committee : John Young, Chairman.

To the Chairman of the Provincial Congress, convened

in the City of New- York.

MEETING OF THE INHABITANTS OF CORNWALL (NEW-YORK)
PRECINCT.

Blooming Grove, May 15, 1775.

At a meeting of the Freeholders of the Precinct of
Cornwall, in Orange County, held at the house of John
Brewster, on the 15th of May, 1775, convened agreeably
to advertisement : After choosing Jesse Woodhull, Esq.,
Moderator, and Thomas Moffat, Clerk, a letter was then
read, signed by Isaac Low, Chairman of the Committee
of New- York, recommending the choosing of Deputies in
the several Counties in this Province, to represent them
in Provincial Congress on the 22d instant. The meeting
then proceeded deliberately, and chose Israel Seely, Jesse
Woodhull, Esquire, and Jeremiah Clark, (or any one of
them,) Deputies for this Precinct for the purposes afore-
said, as part of the representation of the County of Orange.
Jesse Woodhull, Chairman.

COMMITTEE OF DUTCHESS COUNTY TO THE NEW-YORK
CONGRESS.

We, the subscribers, do hereby certify, that at a County
meeting, in consequence of notifications for that purpose,
held at Poughkeepsie, on Tuesday, the 16th May, 1775,
Dirck Brinkerhoff, Anthony Hoffman, Zephaniah Piatt,
Richard Montgomery, Ephraim Paine, Gilbert Living-
ston, and Jonathan London, Esquires, and Messrs. Gys-
bert Schenck, Melancthon Smith, and Nathaniel Sackett,
were, by a majority of voices, elected Deputies for the
term of six months, to represent the County of Dutchess

835

CORRESPONDENCE, PROCEEDINGS, fcc, MAY, 1775.

886

in the Provincial Convention to be held at the City of

New- York, on the 22d instant.

Roswell Hopkins, Ananias Cooper,
13ev. Robinson, Jacob Swahtvvout,

James Smith, Jonathan Lewis,

Abraham Bocker, Egbert Benson.
Cornelius Humphrey,

vote of first company in brookhaven, NEW-YORK.

Brookhaven, May 17, 1775.

Whereas, the Committees of the several Towns within
the County of Suffolk met at the County-Hall on the 5th
of May, 1775; and whereas Brookhaven was not repre-
sented by a Committee at said meeting, the several Com-
mittees thought fit to write a letter to the inhabitants of
said Brookhaven, signifying their desire that they should
unite with the other Towns in choosing a Deputy to unite
with the seven Deputies which they had chosen to repre-
sent this County at the Provincial Congress, to be held at
New- York, on the 22d day of this instant :

Now we, the residents within the limits of the First
Company of Militia of said Town, do, in conjunction with
the other Companies in said Township, choose Selah
Strong, Esquire, as one of the Deputies to represent said
County. In witness whereof we have hereunto signed our
names.

Nathan Woodhull, Thomas Smith,
Jonathan Thompson, Alf.x. Hawkins,
Nathaniel Roe, David Hawkins,

Richard Woodhull, Simeon Hawkins,
Samuel Thompson, Alex. Hawkins, Jun.,
Selah Strong, Jun., Jacob Hawkins,
Caleb Brewster, Edmund Smith,
Nath'l Roe, Jun., Samuel Davis,
Philip Roe, Joseph Hawkins,

John Roe, Isaac Davis.

VOTE OF SECOND COMPANY IN BROOKHAVEN, NEW-YORK.

Brookhaven, May 17, 1775.

There being met the Second Company of the above-
said Town, whereof Ebenezer Miller is Captain, and were
desired that all such as were willing to be represented in
the Provincial Convention, to be held at New-York, the
22d of this month, would manifest it by setting their votes
or names to this paper. Selah Strong, Esquire, being the
man chosen to represent us.

Capt. Ebenezer Miller, Joshua Davis, Richard Davis,
Lieut. Woodhull, Samuel Philips, Jun., Jcffry Woodhull,

Ensign Davis, William Philips, Chapman Davis,

Noah Hallock, Israel Davis, Noah Hallock, Jun.,

David Davis, Andrew Miller, Joseph Brown, Jun.,

Merrit Smith Woodhull,Henry Woodhull, Mica Skidmore,

Joseph Philips, James Woodhull, Rynear Vanhoosen,

Timothy Norton, Jun., Gilbert Woodhull, Justisjno. Woodhull,

Azcl Jarritt, Jacob Eaton, Joseph Brown,

Edmond Robinson, Fortunatus Taylor, Thomas Robinson,

Daniel Bales, Josiah Hallock, Dr. Theoph. Philips,

Martin Brown, Spiser Davis, Thomas Balis,

Elisha Davis, Josiah Woodhull, Rosel Hubberd,

Silas Davis, William Miller, Joseph Davis.

Timothy Davis, Gilbert Davis,

The above names signed in the presence of us :

Wissell Sill, Clerk,
Ebenezer Miller,
Joseph Brown.

VOTE OF THIRD COMPANY IN BROOKHAVEN, NEW-YORK.

Brookhaven, May 17, 1775.

There were called together the Third Company, com-
manded by Captain Nathan Rose.

The question being put, whether they were for appointing
a Deputy in this Town to join the other Deputies of this
County, to meet the Provincial Convention, to be held the
twenty-second of this instant May, in New-York, to con-
sult the general good of this Colony; passed in the affirm-
ative nemine contradicente.

Then the question was put, whether Selah Strong, Esq.,
should be the man to represent this Town, in joining with
the other Deputies of this County, in Provincial Conven-
tion, to be held in New- York, the twenty-second of this

instant ? Passed, without one dissenting voice, in the affirm-
ative, to which they have affixed their names.

Capt. Nathui Rose, William Baker, Daniel Jones,

Lieut. Thos. Rose, Beoaiafa Hubbard, Francis Barto, Jr.

John Marvin, Samuel Dayton, John Smith,

Johiel Weed, Richard llulso, Stephen Satterly,

Matthew WoodrufF, Joseph Terry, Nathaniel Brewster,

Thaddeus Cole, Jeffery Brewster, Isaac Robbins,

Jedodiah Marvin, Robert Hawkins, Mordecai Homun, Jr.

Kphraim Smith, Ebe'zcr Hornans, Jr., Ananias Smith,

Thomas Avery, Nathaniel Finck, Micajah Lane,

Jesse Rose, Mord. Homan, 3d. F./.ekiel Ilomati,

Isaac Woodruff, Matthew Marvin, Daniel Rose,

Ezekiel Hedges, Reynold I'inek, Mordecai Homan,

Isaiah M Offer, Joseph Homan, Nathaniel Smith,

Ebenezer Homan, Jonah Tucker, Joseph Swcasy.

Nathan Rose, Jun., Matthew Bealo,

We, the underwritten persons, were present when tlio
above and within persons subscribed their names, and were
frefeholders and inhabitants within the Town of Brookhaven.

William Smith,
Nath'l Woodhull,
Josiah Smith.

VOTE OF FOURTH COMPANY IN BROOKHAVEN, NEW-YORK.

Brookhaven, May 16, 1775.

Met the Fourth Company of Brookhaven, whereof Da-
vid Mulford is Captain, and were desired to manifest, by
their votes, whether they were desirous to be represented
in the Provincial Convention, to be held at New-York, the
twenty-second of this instant, P. M.; then, who should rep-
resent them.

Voted, That Selah Strong, Esq., be the person to rep-
resent them. Passed without contradiction, to which we
have subscribed our names.

W. Brewster, Lieut. Daniel Roe, William Swezey,

E. Davis, Qu' master. Jonathan Johnes, Gillum Davis,

C. Moger, Ensign. Job Mulford, Selah Brown,

J. Howel, Sergeant. Ludly Clarke, Goldsmith Davis,

N. Norton, Serg't. William Still, Zopher Davis,

D. Mulford, Clerk. William Gerrard, Jr. John Leek,
James Overton, Nehemiah Hulse, William Clark, Jr ,
Benjamin Woodhull, Daniel Swezey, Daniel Davis, Jr.,
Mordecai Homan, Isaac Swezey, Ebenezer Dayton,
Stephen Randal, John Turner, Abel Swezey,
John Albeen, Nathaniel Overton, James Swezey,
Isaac Smith, John Arnold, Francis Hallit,
Jonathan Benjamin, Jonathan Jones, Messenger Overton,
Palmer Overton, Daniel Petty, Isaac Davis,
Benjamin Gerrard, Gershom Brown, Timothy Wood,
William Davis, Brewster Terry, Wm Brewster, Jr.,
William Edwards, Nathan Davis, James Sell,
James Moger, James Orsborn, Benjamin Petty,
Samuel Tallmadge, Justus Overton, Christopher Swezey,
Bennet Dayton, Paul Hulse, Enos Bishop,
James Tucker, Wm. Clarke, Sen., Eleazer Bellows,
Luke Pritchard, Joseph Seward, Jun., Samuel Satterly,
Gershom Terry, Arthur Moger, James Swezey, Jr.
Joseph Garrard, Joseph Terry,

Those of the contrary mind :

J. Homan, Sergeant. David Overton, Zach. Hawkins, Jr.,

Nath. Longbottom, Timothy Lane.

The above dissenters professed to be nothing against or
for the vote, but stand as neutrals.

Note. — The whole of the names in both lists were put
down at their desire, in presence of us,

Ebenezer Dayton,
John Woodhull,
William Smith.

AN ADDRESS FROM JAMES RIVINGTON TO THE HONOURABLE
DELEGATES AT THE CONTINENTAL CONGRESS.

Whereas the subscriber, by the freedom of his publica-
tions during the present unhappy disputes between Great
Britain and her Colonies, has brought upon himself much
publick displeasure and resentment, in consequence of which
his life has been endangered, his property invaded, and a
regard to his personal safety requires him still to be absent
from his family and business ; and whereas it has been
ordered by the Committee of Correspondence for the City
of New-York, that a report of the state of his case should
be made to the Continental Congress, that the manner of
his future treatment may be submitted to their direction ;
he thinks himself happy in having at last for his judges,
gentlemen of eminent rank and distinction in the Colonies,
from whose enlarged and liberal sentiments, he flatters him-
self that he can receive no other than an equitable sentence,
unbiased by popular clamour and resentment. He humbly

837

CORRESPONDENCE, PROCEEDINGS, &c, MAY, 1775.

838

presumes that the very respectable gentlemen of the Con-
gress now sitting at Philadelphia, will permit him to de-
clare, and, as a man of honour and veracity, he can and
does solemnly declare, that however wrong and mistaken
he may have been in his opinions, he has always meant
honestly and openly to do his duty as a servant of the
publick. Accordingly his conduct, as a printer, has always
been conformable to the ideas which he entertained of
English liberty, warranted by the practice of all printers
in Great Britain and Ireland for a century past, under
every Administration; authorized, as he conceives, by the
laws of England, and countenanced by the declarations of
the late Congress. He declares that his press has been
always open and free to all parties, and for the truth of this
fact appeals to his publications, among which are to be
reckoned all the pamphlets, and many of the best pieces
that have been written in this and the neighbouring Colonies
in favour of the American claims. However, having found
that the inhabitants of the Colonies were not satisfied with
this plan of conduct, a few weeks ago he published in his
paper a short apology, in which he assured the publick that
he would be cautious, for the future, of giving any further
offence. To this declaration he resolves to adhere, and he
cannot but hope for the patronage of the publick so long
as his conduct shall be found to correspond with it. It is
his wish and ambition to be an useful member of society.
Although an Englishman by birth, he is an American by
choice, and he is desirous of devoting his life, in the busi-
ness of his profession, to the service of the Country he has
adopted for his own. He lately employed no less than
sixteen workmen, at near one thousand Pounds annually ;
and his consumption of printing paper, the manufacture of
Pennsylvania, New-York, Connecticut, and the Massachu-
setts-Bay, has amounted nearly to that sum. His exten-
sive foreign correspondence, his large acquaintance in Eu-
rope and America, and the manner of his education, are
circumstances which, he conceives, have not improperly
qualified him for the station in which he wishes to continue,
and in which he will exert every endeavour to be useful.
He therefore humbly submits his case to the consideration
of the honourable gentlemen now assembled in the Conti-
nental Congress, and begs that their determination may be
such as will secure him, especially as it is the only thing
ihat can effectually secure him in the safety of his person,
the enjoyment of his property, and the uninterrupted pro-
secution of his business. James Rivington.

May 20, 1775.

TOWN MEETING IN BROOKLYN, NEW-YORK.

Brooklyn, Kings County, Nassau Island, May 20, 1775.

At a general Town Meeting, regularly warned, the Ma-
gistrates and Freeholders met, and voted Jeremiah Remsen,
Esq., into the Chair, and Leffert Lefferts, Esq., Clerk.

Taking into our serious consideration the expediency and
propriety of concurring with the freeholders and freemen
of the City and County of New- York, and the other Coun-
ties, Townships, and Precincts, within this Province, for
holding, continuing, and maintaining a Provincial Congress
of Deputies, chosen out of the whole Province, to advise,
consider, consult, watch over, protect, and defend, at this
very alarming crisis, all our civil and religious rights, liber-
ties, and privileges, according to their collective prudence:

After duly weighing and considering the unjust plunder
and inhuman carnage committed on the property and per-
sons of our brethren in the Massachusetts, who, with the
other New-England Colonies, are now deemed, by the
Mother Country, to be in a state of actual rebellion, by
which declaration England hath put it beyond their own
power to treat with New-England, or to propose or receive
any terms of reconciliation, until those Colonies will submit
as, or shall become a conquered Country; the first effort
to effect which was by military and naval force; the next
attempt is to bring a famine (a dreadful engine of war)
amongst them, by depriving them of both their natural and
acquired right of fishing — natural by their situation, ac-
quired by their joint exertions to acquire the sovereignty
of those fisheries : Further, contemplating the very unhap-
py situation to which the powers at home, by oppressive
measures, have driven all the other Protestant Provinces,
(in which we are included,) we have all evils in their power

to fear, as they have already declared all the Provinces
aiders and abettors of rebellion : It remains only with the
infallibility and omnipotency of Parliament, to determine
how the Crown of England can propose to, or accept of
any conditions of accommodations from any of these Pro-
testant Provinces : Therefore,

1st. Resolved, That Henry Williams and Jeremiah
Remsen, Esquires, be now elected, chosen, and deputed by
us, and in our behalf, Deputies for this Township, to meet
and associate with all the Deputies of the Cities, Counties,
Townships, and Precincts, within this Province of New-
York, in a Provincial Convention, intended to be holden
in the City of New- York on Monday next, the twenty-
second day of this present instant, May, and so to continue
to meet from time to time, and at all times, according to
the adjournments of the said Provincial Convention, and
then and there to consider, consult, agree, determine, act,
and do all prudential and necessary business accordingly.

2d. Resolved, That we, confiding in the wisdom and
equity of said Convention, collectively, do consent, agree,
and conclude to observe, abide by and fulfil, all necessary
and warrantable acts, associations, orders, and directions, as
the said Provincial Congress shall, in their prudence, require,
direct, and enjoin.

Signed by order of the Town Meeting :

Leffert Lefferts, Clerk.

COMMITTEE FROM CONNECTICUT TO NEW-YORK CONGRESS.

New-York, Friday Morning, nine o'clock,
May 21, 1775.

Sir : As we are much indisposed, think it most prudent
to set out for Connecticut, and shall leave this City at two
o'clock this afternoon. If the Convention have any com-
mands to the Governour and Company of that Colony,
we shall be proud of the honour of executing them. Mr.
Edwards will go afterwards to New-Jersey, and, on his way
to Connecticut, will wait on the Convention of this Province
for further intelligence, and will give them such informa-
tion as lies in his power.

We are, Sir, your most obedient humble servants,

Nathaniel Wales,
Thaddeus Burr.

The Honourable Peter Van Brugh Livingston, Esq.

MEETING OF COMMITTEES FOR KINGS COUNTY, NEW-YORK.

Flatbush, May 22, 1775.
At a meeting held this twenty-second day of May, of
the several Deputies of the different Townships in Kings
County, for the purpose of electing Delegates to represent
the County of Kings in Provincial Congress, now held in
the City of New- York, agreeable to said meeting, they
have and hereby do appoint Richard Stilwell, Theodorus
Polhemus, John Lefferts, Nicholas Covenhoven, Johannes
E. Lolt, John Van Der Bill, Henry Williams, and Jere-
miah Remsen, Esquires, Delegates, or any three of them,
to represent and fully to act in behalf of the before men-
tioned County, in Provincial Congress before named, now
held in the City of New- York.

Abraham E. Lott, Secretary.

MEETING OF FREEHOLDERS AT JAMAICA, NEW-YORK.

At a meeting of a number of the Freeholders of Queens
County, at Jamaica, on the 22d day of May inst., pursuant
to publick notice thereof given, I certify that the following
persons, to wit : Col. Jacob Blackwell, Jonathan Law-
rence, Daniel Rapelje, Esq., Zebulon Williams, Esquire,
Samuel Toivnsend, Esq., Joseph French, Esq., Joseph
Robinson, Nathaniel Tom, Thomas Hicks, Esq., and Cap-
lain Richard Thome, were unanimously chosen and elected
Deputies for the said County, to meet in Provincial Con-
gress with the Deputies from the other Counties within
this Province. Given under my hand this 22d day of
May, 1775. Danl. Kissam, Chairman.

Vote of the Town of Jamaica, in Queens County, New-
York, on the expediency of choosing a Deputy ; pre-

839

CORRESPONDENCE, PROCEEDINGS, &c, MAY, 1775.

810

sented to the Provincial Congress on the 2lst day of
April, 1775.— [See Folio 856.]

No Committee — No Deputy.
Adam Lawrence,
Johannes Polhemus,
Joseph Oldfield,
Tunis Bargin,
Charles Ardin;*,
John Lamberson,
John Smith,
John Troup,
Powel Amlierman,
Johannes Lott,
Johannes Snedeker,
Joseph Golder,
Abraham Ditmus,
Jeconiah Valentine,
William Cornell,
Isaac Amberman,
Lucas Klderd,
Stephen Lott,
William Welling,
Kioh. Van AusdoII,
Lucas Bergen,
John Wiggins,
Obadiah Mills,
Aury Ramson,
John Williamson,
Cornelius Bonn t,
Nicholas Jones,
S mil. Doughty,
Daniel Ramson,
John Forster,
Thomas Belts,
John Bennet,

Captain Rutgers,
John Skidmore,
Robert Hinckman,
Waters Smith,
William Ludlam,
Abraham Kettletas,
Jonas Fredrick,
William Steed,
John Mills,
Isaac Bayley,
Increase Carpenter,
John Cockle,
Isaac Hendrickson,
John Innes, Sen.,
Elias Bayley,
Aaron Hendrickson,
Robert Denton,
John Smith,
Jacob Wright,
Nicholas Smith, Sr.,
William Messenger,
Nicholas Everitt,
Peter Smith,
John Brimner,
Daniel Tuthill,
II. Hendrickson, Sr.,
Daniel Everitt,
John Brush,
Isaac Roads,

John Doughty,
Nathaniel Higby,
Richard Bctts, Capt.
Tunis Covert,
Nicholas Lamberson,
Simoon Lamberson,
William Pettet,
Johtn. Williamson,
Obadiah Hinckman,
Jacob Bargin,
Nicholas l.udl, mi,
Bernardus Ryder,
Philip Piatt,
Nathaniel Mills, Jr.,
Johannes Elderd,
Peter Noorstrout,
Garret Noorstrout,
Garret Durland, Jr.,
Garret Durland, Sr.,
Jacob Lott,
Nathl. Townsend,
Garret Snedeker,
Derrick Bargin,
Stephen Clements,
A. Van Noorstrout,
Nathaniel Mills, Sr.,
Matthias Lamberson,
George Riorson,
John Ramson,
Stephen Higby,
John Ramson, Sen.,

For a Deputy.

John Roads,
Jonah Roads,
A. Hendrickson,
Whited Skidmore,
Christopher Ryder,
Amos Denton,
Samuel Skidmore,
Noah Smith,
Daniel Bayley,
Wait Smith,
John Thurston,
Hope Roads,
Samuel Messenger,
John J. Skidmore,
Jacques Johnson,
Nehemiah Everitt,
Increase Carpenter,
Joseph Higby,
Andrew Oackly,
Moses Higby,
Jacob Forster,
Daniel Ludlam,
Saml. Higby, cooper,
H. Hendrickson, Jr.,
Cornelius Losee,
Daniel Smith,
Samuel Higby, Jr.,
Jonathan Thurston,

A. Van Noorstrout,
Daniel Lawrence,

<• Dunbar,
II in v Higby,
Benjamin Doughty,
William Watts,
John Watts,
William Golden,
Timothy Cornell,
John Van Leew,
Jabesh Woodruff,
Joseph Van Brunt,
John Rowlan,
Hope Mills,
Bonj. Whitehead,
Nehemiah Carpenter,
Hendrick Emmons,
R. Ramson, Jamaica,
John Bargin,
Dow Ditmus,
Evert Van Wickley,
William Thatford,
Anthony Ramson,
John Noorstrout,
Garret Lotting,
Ludlam Smith,
Samuel Forster,
Isaac Loffert,
Rueloff Duryee,
Johannes Polhemus,
J. French, Esq. — 94.

Nathaniel Smith,
Ephraim Marston,
J. Hendrickson, Jr.,
Othniel Smith,
Samuel Smith,
William Creed,
Nehemiah Carpenter,
John Skidmore, Jr.,
Thomas Denton,
Benjamin Everitt,
John Van Leew,
Benjamin Creed,
Isaac Mills,
Nicholas Smith, Jr.,
Benj. Hinckman,
David Lamberson,
Nathaniel Box,
William Creed, Jr.,
Ephraim Bayley,
Obadiah Smith,
Jacob Carpenter,
Nehemiah Carpenter,
Joshua Carpenter,
Richard Roads,
John Messenger,
Joseph Robinson,
Thomas Wiggins,
Jacob Duryee. — 85.

BENEDICT ARNOLD TO THE ALBANY COMMITTEE.

Ticonderoga, May 22, 1775.

Gentlemen : I take the liberty to advise you that, on
the 13th instant, having proceeded from this place to St.
John's, with a party of my Regiment, of thirty-five men,
I surprised and took prisoners a sergeant and his party of
twelve men, the King's sloop, of seventy tons and seven
men, mounted with two brass six-pounders, and in two
hours after weighed anchor with the sloop, &c, and pro-
ceeded for this place. Six leagues this side of St. John's,
met one Colonel Allen, with a party of near one hundred
men, who were determined to proceed to jSt. John's, and
make a stand there. Not being able to dissuade them from
their rash design, 1 supplied them with provisions. They
then proceeded to St. John's, and the next morning were
attacked by about two hundred Regulars, with six field-
pieces, and were obliged to make a precipitate retreat, with
the loss of three men killed or taken. The party arrived
here last evening.

I am now fixing the sloop with six carriages and ten
swivels; the schooner with four carnages and six swivels,
and am determined to proceed to Croitm Point, and make
a stand there, in order to secure the cannon, near one hun-
dred pieces, at that place. We are in great want of a num-
ber of seamen, gunners, carpenters, &ic, for both vessels.
Our safety, in a great measure, depends on them, (the ves-
sels,) as they will be able to command the lake, if properly
manned. Enclosed is a list of men wanted immediately,
which I beg the favour of you, gentlemen, to ship and send

up here without loss of time, furnishing them with such
things as you judge necessary. 1 have judicious able com-
manders for both vessels, and want only mates, gunners,
marines, &.c. Annexed is the wages 1 propose giving, but
must refer that to your direction ; and any sums you are
kind enough to advance for the above purpose, I will give
a draft for on the Committee of Safety at Cambridge, being
fully empowered for that purpose. We have only one
hundred and fifty pounds of good powder for both vessels,
and one hundred men. I have wrote repeatedly to Albany
for powder, and must once more entreat you, gentlemen, if
not forwarded, to send me as soon as possible ten or twelve
hundred weight of powder. If the seamen, he, are not
to be procured at Albany, I beg the favour of you to for-
ward this letter to the Committee of Safety at New-York,
and you will much oblige, gentlemen, your most obedient
humble servant, Benedict Arnold,

Commander at Ticonderoga.
To the Committee of Safety at Albany.

BENEDICT ARNOLD TO THE ASSEMBLY OF CONNECTICUT.

Crown Point, May 23, 1775.
Gentlemen: My last was of the 19th instant, per Cap-
tain Oswald. I then advised you of my taking possession
of the King's sloop, Sic, at St. John's, and that, on the
18th instant, I met Colonel Allen, with eighty or one hun-
dred men, who were proceeding to St. John's, with inten-
tion to make a stand there ; and not being able to dissuade
them from their rash purpose, I supplied them with pro-
visions, Stc. Yesterday he returned to Ticonderoga, with
his party, and says, that on the evening of the 18th he
arrived at St. John's, and hearing of a detachment of men
on the road from Montreal, lay in ambush for them; but
his party being so much fatigued, when the detachment
were at about two miles distance, he thought proper to re-
treat, and crossed the lake at St. John's, where they con-
tinued the night, and at dawn of day were saluted with a
discharge of grape-shot from six field-pieces, and a dis-
charge of small arms from about two hundred Regulars.
They made a precipitate retreat, and left three men behind.
Immediately on this intelligence I proceeded for this place
with the sloop and schooner, as well armed as possible un-
der our circumstances, and eighty men, which, with the
party here before, makes near one hundred and fifty men,
with whom I am determined to make a stand here to secure
the cannon, &c. As the Regulars have got advice of our
strength and movements, I am apprehensive of their paying
us a visit, provided they can get batteaus from Montreal to
St. John's. I shall make every possible preparation to give
them a warm reception. We have plenty of ball of every
kind, but have no more than one hundred and fifty pounds
of powder here. I have wrote repeatedly to Albany for
powder, and can get none. I must entreat you, gentlemen,
to send me four or five hundred weight as soon as possible.
Out of twenty-six barrels found here there is not one pound
good.

I am, with great esteem, gentlemen, your most obedient
humble servant, Benedict Arnold.

The Hon. General Assembly of Connecticut.

P. S. This will be delivered you, gentlemen, by Cap-
tain Phelps, who has been very serviceable here, whom I
must refer you to for particulars. Must beg leave to ob-
serve, I think it highly necessary for Connecticut to send
here immediately fifteen hundred men at least, with good
arms, ammunition, &c.

Gentlemen: Since writing the above, one of Colonel
Allen's party, taken at St. John's, made his escape on the
19th instant, and says there were then four hundred Regu-
lars at Si. John's, making all possible preparation to cross
the lake, and expected to be joined by a number of In-
dians, with a design of retaking these places, &tc. I have
sent to alarm the country for fifty miles below Skenes-
borough, and fifty miles below Fort George, towards Al-
bany. The men from that distance will be sufficient for
the present, if we are well supplied with powder. We are
making all possible preparation, and I hope, with the smiles
of Providence, to keep our ground, if not overpowered by
numbers, I am, gentlemen, yours, Jk,c,

B. Arnold,

841

CORRESPONDENCE, PROCEEDINGS, he, MAY, 1775.

842

BENEDICT ARNOLD TO CAPTAIN NOAH LEE.

Crown Point, May 23, 1775.

Sir : I am this minute advised by one of Colonel Allen's
party, who was taken prisoner and made his escape from
St. John's on the 18th instant, that there were then arrived
at that place four hundred Regulars, and more expected,
besides the Indians, who were repairing the boats, with a
design to cross the lake, and, if possible, to retake Crown
Point and Tieonderoga. It is my hearty desire that every
man within fifty miles of Skcnesborough, who can be of
service, would immediately repair to Tieonderoga or Crown
Point, and bring all the powder that can be found, and as
many spades, pick-axes, and hoes, as they have. Let this
letter be forwarded down the country, that they may send
up provisions to supply the families of the upper Towns,
who are obliged to come forward this way. Let them bring
all the good arms they have.

Benedict Arnold, Commander-in-Chief.

Captain Noah Lee.

P. S. We have only one hundred and fifty men here
and at Tieonderoga.

ALBANY COMMITTEE TO THE COMMITTEE OF PALATINE
DISTRICT.

Committee-Chamber, Albany, May 23, 1775.

Gentlemen: We received yours of the 21st instant,
and can assure you that we sympathise with you in your
distressed and distracted situation ; but at the same time
must rejoice to find you so warmly engaged amidst the op-
position you meet with, in the grand plan of operation gene-
rally, nay almost universally adopted through the Colonies,
for the preservation of our liberty, and security of our pro-
perty. Enclosed you have a copy of a letter we have
sent to Colonel Guy Johnson. We have sent also a Com-
mittee to join a Committee from Schenectady to wait upon
him to know the reasons of his military preparations, and
the source from whence those apprehensions he has from
an assault from the New-England people arose ; an answer
to the speech of the Indian speech, (a copy of which you
have enclosed,) and an interpreter to translate it for him,
and to make the Indians sensible of the nature of the dis-
pute between the Mother Country and the Colonies.

You complain of a scarcity of ammunition amongst you.
We are very sorry that though there was a free communi-
cation between you and us, we have it not in our power at
present to afford you any assistance in that particular, as
the New-England people have carried off almost every
pound of powder that can be spared, though we under-
stand that the Committee of Schenectady have some ; but
be assured that we will afford you every assistance that is
in our power to give, and shall rejoice to walk hand in
hand with you in every thing that shall tend to your par-
ticular advantage in so critical a situation, and promote the
grand the general cause, which thousands of our neigh-
bouring brethren are strenuously supporting, at the expense
of their lives and estates. We cannot at present advise
you to force a direct communication between you and us,
as it may be attended with bad consequences, and perhaps
it may be effected without such a risk as you must run in
the attempt.

We have heard, several weeks ago, that Colonel Guy
Johnson had appointed last winter to have a general Con-
gress with the Indians this spring. We have wrote a letter
to the Reverend Samuel Kirkland, missionary among the
Oneida Indians, to use his influence with them to maintain
peace and harmony with the white people.

and extinguish our council fire ; for what reason we know
not.

Brothers : We desire you would inform us, if you know
of any such design on foot, whether by the New-England
people, or in your vicinity, and not deceive us in this mat-
ter, for the consequence will be important and extensive.

Brothers: We shall support and defend our Superin-
tendent, and not see our council fire extinguished. We
have no inclination or purpose of interfering in the dispute
between Old England and Boston ; the white people may
settle their own quarrels between themselves ; we shall
never meddle in those matters, or be the aggressors, if we
are let alone. We have, for a long time, lived in great
peace with one another, and we wish ever to continue so ;
but should our Superintendent be taken from us, we dread
the consequences ; the whole Confederacy would resent it,
and all their allies ; and as reports now are, we should not
know where to find our enemies ; the innocent might fall
with the guilty. We are so desirous of maintaining peace,
that we are unwilling the Six Nations should know the
bad reports spread amongst us, and threats given out.

Brothers : We desire you will satisfy us as to your
knowledge of the foundation of these reports, and what
your news is, and not deceive us in a matter of so much
importance. Abraham, Chief.

[Interpreted by Samuel ISrkland, Missionary, May 20,
1775.]

An Answer to a Speech of Little Abraham, a Mohawk, to
the Magistrates and Committee of the Town of Schenec-
tady, and Mayor, Corporation, and Committee of the
City of Albany :

Brothers : We are sorry that any reports spread
amongst you should alarm you or make you uneasy. We
know of no troops or companies coming from any quarter
to molest you, or to apprehend and take away by violence
your Superintendent, or extinguish your council fire. We
have not heard, nor do we know, the New-England people
ever intended to molest you or your Superintendent ; nor
do we believe it ; for they are our friends, and they are
your friends, and will do neither of us injury.

Brothers: We cannot, however, pass over in silence
what probably may have given rise to such reports. We
understand that two persons passing on their own business,
were detained by your Superintendent, they being New-
England men, which is against our laws ; perhaps this may
have occasioned the report.

Brothers : We are extremely well satisfied to learn that
you have no inclination or purpose to interfere in the dis-
pute between Old England and America, for you must
not understand that it is with Boston alone ; it is between
Old England and all her Colonies ; the people here are
oppressed by Old England, and she sends over Troops
among us to destroy us ; this is the reason our people are
all in alarm to defend themselves. They intend no hostilities
against you ; do you continue peaceable, and you need
apprehend no danger; it is a dispute wherein you have
nothing to do ; don't you disturb any of our people, and
depend upon it they will leave you in peace.

Brothers : As we have always lived in strict friendship,
so we mean to continue to live in peace, not only with our
brethren, the Mohawks, but all the Six Nations, for which
reason we desire our brethren to give ear to no reports that
may prevail. You can at any time satisfy yourselves more
fully, if you choose to send down to us one or more of your
Nation, any of whom we shall always be glad to see, to
talk with them on these affairs.

A Speech of the Mohawks to the Magistrates and Com-
mittee of the Town of Schenectady, and Mayor, Cor-
poration, and Committee of the City of Albany, he,
delivered by Little Abraham :

Brothers : Our present situation is very disagreeable
and alarming, what we never expected ; therefore desire to
know what is designed by the reports that are spread amongst
us. We hear that companies and troops are coming from
one quarter to another, to molest us ; particularly, that a
large body are hourly -expected from Neiv-England to ap-
prehend and take away by violence our Superintendent

Answer of the Mohawks to the Speech of the Magis-
trates, &c, of Albany and Schenectady.

Guy Park, May 25, 1775.

Present : Gysbert Marselis, Peter P. Schuyler, John
Visher, John Roseboom, Chris. Yates, of the Committee,
Colonel Johnson, Superintendent, Colonel Daniel Claus,
William Allen, Esquire, of Philadelphia, with several
other gentlemen.

Abraham, Chief of the Mohawks, Speaker.

Brothers : We are glad to meet you here at this our
fire-place, where we meet to transact business. You are

843

CORRESPONDENCE, PROCEEDINGS, fcc, MAY, 1775.

844

our old friends, and we heard you came now to answer our
speech. We have attended to your answer, and now ac-
quaint you that the reports we had rendered it necessary to
send you such a speech, lo prevent the dangerous conse-
quences that might ensue.

We are extremely glad to hear your speech, which is
very peaceable, and it gives us pleasure, because we would
not willingly quarrel with a people with whom we have
been so long at peace; and this must have happened, if
the news we heard had been true ; for we have but one
head, and that is Colonel Johnson, our Superintendent.
We heard that there were designs against him, and we must
protect him ; we cannot do without him ; so that if there
are no designs against him, we shall be easy in our minds ;
for though we have long heard of disputes between the
English and the people here, we do not think proper to
interfere.

You all know that during Sir William Johnsons life-
time, and since, we have been peaceably disposed ; but we
were greatly alarmed at the report of a design against Col-
onel Johnson; for he is our property, and we shall not part
with him. We desire you will hearken to us, and that you
will believe we speak our minds. We likewise hope you
are sincere. But one thing alarms us much, and we hope
it is not true. There was a report that you have stopped
some powder ; you know we get this and other things from
our Superintendent ; and we are hunters, and must have
powder. If we lived as you do, it would not have been
so great a loss ; but we must have ammunition, and if it is
stopped, we shall have reason to doubt your sincerity, and
to suspect that you do not regard us or our words. We
have both given fair assurances, and hope no doubt remains
between us, otherwise it might be bad. We are pleased
to hear you say that you are willing to communicate freely
with us ; this we like, and this is the place where we do
business ; we will at all times listen to whoever you send
here, in the presence of our Superintendent. This is the
truth, brothers, and agreeable to the customs of our ances-
tors, which we shall follow.

The gentlemen of the Committee, after retiring for some
little time, returned and gave the following Answer:

Brothers : We are very glad to hear you speak, and
hear you confirm the old friendship of our forefathers, which
we intend to abide by, and thank you for the same.

Brothers : The reports you have heard of in regard to
the powder, we also hope to be false, and assure you that
we shall acquaint, on our return, our old and wise men
about the same, and do our endeavours to prevent any such
things for the future ; and you may depend upon it, that
whenever we have any business with you, that we shall
apply here at your council fire, where we hope to meet
you in the presence of your Superintendent; and that we
shall always keep the communication free and open as is
usual.

To which the Mohawk answered :

Brothers : We are glad both our speeches are so
agreeable, and hope that you are not surprised to hear us
say we cannot spare Colonel Johnson ; for besides his being
our Superintendent, the love we have for the memory of
Sir William Johnson, and the obligations the whole Six
Nations are under to him, must make us regard and pro-
tect every branch of his family, whom we include in our
speech.

We now find there have been several false reports on
both sides ; we hope that concerning the powder is one of
them ; we shall therefore explain the same truly to the rest
of our Confederacy, and we expect that you will, on your
part, explain the truth immediately to all the white people
east and west, as we mean to do the same among the In-
dians.

COMMITTEE FROM CONNECTICUT TO NEW-YORK CONGRESS.

New.York, May 24, 1775.

Sir: The House of Representatives of the Colony
of Connecticut have appointed us a Committee on their
behalf to wait on the " Provincial Convention of this Prov-
ince, in order to procure intelligence of the measures
that may be adopted by said Convention, respecting the
common cause of the British Colonies ; to communicate

a true state of the measures taken by said Colony ; and
to cultivate the friendship and harmony which subsists be-
tween this Province and that Colony :" we therefore take
the liberty, through you, to communicate the business of
our appointment to the Provincial Convention of this Prov-
ince, and to inform them that we are at Mrs. Blau's, op-
posite the Exchange, and should esteem it a favour to be
furnished from time to time with accounts of the steps taken
by the Convention, " that respect the general cause of the
British Colonies ;" and that we are ready, on our part, " to
communicate a true state of the measures adopted by the
Colony of Connecticut," and to use all means in our
power " to cultivate and improve the friendship subsisting
between this Province and said Colony."

We are, Sir, your most obedient humble servants,

Nathaniel Wales,
Thaddei;s Burr,
Pierpont Edwards.
Peter Van Brugh Livingston, Esq.

JOHN HANCOCK, PRESIDENT, TO NEW-YORK CONGRESS.

Philadelphia, May 26, 1775.

Sir: I enclose you the Resolves of the Continental
Congress respecting the measures they conceive more im-
mediately necessary for the defence and safety of your
City and Province, and which, it is expected, will be car-
ried into execution with all possible despatch, and with as
much secresy, as to the particular operations intended, as
the nature of the service will possibly admit of.

I am, Sir, your most obedient humble servant,

John Hancock, President.
To the President of the Provincial Congress New-York.

In Congress, May 25, 1775.

Resolved, That a Post be immediately taken and forti-
fied at or near King's Bridge, in the Colony of New- York ;
that the ground be chosen with a particular view to pre-
vent the communication between the City of New-York
and the country from being interrupted by land.

2. Resolved, That a Post be also taken in the High-
lands on each side of Hudson's River, and Batteries erect-
ed in such manner as will most effectually prevent any
vessels passing, that may be sent to harass the inhabitants
on the border of said river ; and that experienced persons
be immediately sent to examine said river, in order to dis-
cover where it will be most advisable and proper to obstruct
the navigation.

3. That the Militia of New-York be armed and trained,
and in constant readiness to act at a moment's warning,
and that a number of men be immediately embodied and
kept in that City, and so disposed of as to give protection
to the inhabitants in case any insult should be offered
by the Troops that may land there, and to prevent any
attempts that may be made to gain possession of the City,
and interrupt its intercourse with the country.

4. That it be left to the Provincial Congress of New-
York to determine the number of men sufficient to occupy
the several Posts above rnentioned, and also that already
recommended to be taken at or near Lake George, as well
as to guard the City, provided the whole do not exceed
the number of three thousand men, to be commanded by
such officers as shall be thereunto appointed by the Pro-
vincial Congress, and to be governed by such rules and
regulations as shall be established by said Congress, until
further order is taken by this Congress ; provided also,
that if the said Provincial Congress should be of opinion
that the number proposed will not be sufficient for the
several services above recommended, that the said Con-
gress report their sentiments upon this subject to this Con-
gress as soon as may be.

5. That it be recommended to the said Provincial Con-
gress, that, in raising those forces, they allow no bounties or
clothing, and that their pay shall not exceed the establish-
ment of the New-England Colonies.

6. That it be further recommended to the Provincial
Congress aforesaid, that the Troops be enlisted to serve
until the last day of December next, unless this Congress
shall direct that they be sooner disbanded.

7. That it be recommended to the Congress aforesaid
to persevere the more vigorously in preparing for their

845

CORRESPONDENCE, PROCEEDINGS, &c, MAY, 1775.

846

defence, as it is very uncertain whether the earnest endea-
vours of the Congress to accommodate the unhappy dif-
ferences between Great Britain and the Colonies, by con-
ciliatory measures, will be successful.
A true copy from the minutes :

Charles Thomson, Secretary.

CONGRESS OF NEW-JERSEY TO NEW-YORK. CONGRESS.

In Provincial Congress, New-Jersey, Trenton, )

May 26, 1775. \

Gentlemen: We, the Deputies appointed by the inha-
bitants of this Province, to meet in Provincial Congress,
are now convened here for the purpose of pursuing such
measures as may be thought expedient in the present un-
happy situation to which the Colonies are reduced, and
which the peculiar exigencies of the times may require.
As nothing can tend more to ensure success to the steps
that may at this critical juncture be adopted by the several
Provinces, than a uniform plan of conduct, we conceived
it necessary to look up to the Continental Congress for
their advice and direction, which we have accordingly
applied for, and hope soon to receive. We also think of
consequence, that a correspondence should be established
with you, and our other sister Colonies, and a free com-
munication be had from time to time of such measures as
may be judged most conducive to the interest of the com-
mon cause ; and request that we may be favoured with
such intelligence as may occur to you worthy of attention,
and of which our situation may probably deprive us.

We are, gentlemen, your humble servants,

Hendrick Fisher, President.
To the Provincial Congress of New- York.

SAMUEL TCJDER TO NEW-YORK CONGRESS.

To the Honourable the Provincial Congress of New-
York.

The Petition of Samuel Tuder, Captain, and the other
Officers of the Independent Company of Artillery in
the City of New- York, humbly sheweth:

That they have made considerable progress in forming,
training and exercising the said company ; and flatter them-
selves that, if properly supplied, they may, at this critical
period prove of signal service to the Province. There are
no carriages for even such cannon as they have pitched
on to use until brass field-pieces be provided. Quite des-
titute of ammunition, and the necessary apparatus, they
cannot exert themselves with that effect for the defence of
the Colony, which they are emulous of contributing to.
They therefore pray you will take the matter into consi-
deration, and grant such relief in the premises as you in
your wisdom shall think fit. Samuel Tuder,

In behalf of the Independent Company of Artillery.

New-York, May 26, 1775.

LETTER FROM THE NEW-YORK CONGRESS TO THEIR DELE-
GATES IN THE CONTINENTAL CONGRESS.

New-York, May 26, 1775.

Gentlemen: Upon considering the present state of
these Colonies, it naturally occured to this Congress that
an uncommon levy of money will soon be necessary for
Continental service, and that therefore an universal paper
currency may probably become the subject of consider-
ation in your respectable body. To this scheme it may
naturally be objected, that it will be imprudent in one Col-
ony to interpose its credit for the others. On the other
hand, it is clearly impossible to raise any sum adequate to
the service, by tax ; and the necessary intercourse of ex-
penditures throughout the Colonies will be obstructed by
separate emissions on the respective credits of the several
Colonies, which cannot, in their nature, gain universal cir-
culation. We have this important subject under serious
deliberation, and are still at a loss for the best expedient
most effectually to answer the purpose. We have there-
fore appointed a Committee of our body to give it their
closest attention, and to report their opinion to us with all
possible despatch ; the result of which and our final re-
solution thereon, we shall communicate to you without loss
of time. In the mean time, should this matter be now in
contemplation in the Continental Congress, we earnestly

request that its determination may be so postponed as to
furnish an opportunity of acquainting you with our more
mature sentiments on this most important point.

We beg leave, through our Delegates, to inform the
grand representative body of the Continent, that we have,
in the best manner in our power, executed their order to
the Committee of Neio-York and Albany, respecting the
Post at Ticonderoga, and for further satisfaction, inclose
copies of our proceedings on that subject.

We are, gentlemen, with the greatest respect, your most
obedient humble servants.

extracts of intercepted letters, enclosed in A

LETTER FROM THE ALLtANY COMMITTEE TO PROVINCIAL
CONGRESS OF NEW-YORK, DATED MAY 26, 1775.

Extract of a Letter from Lieutenant George Cupbarge,
of the Twenty-Sixth Regiment, to Mr. Cupbarge, at
Belleville, in Ireland, dated at Montreal, \st of
May, 1775.

" I am apt to think our Regiment will be sent very soon
to serve against the rebellious Neiv-Englanders."

Extract of a Letter from Randle Meredith, dated
Montreal, 2d May, 1775, to Mr. John Rowe, Mer-
chant in Boston.

" I am sorry to find the Government intend to put their
detestable measures in execution. God only knows the
event. 1 feel for your situation, but yet have some faint
hopes a plan of reconciliation may be adopted before blood
is spilt. The English in this country are in a deplorable
situation, being deprived of all their liberties and privileges,
and are afraid to speak or act relative to publick affairs.
Our brethren below must pity us, and our only hopes are,
that if Providence ordains that they succeed in their just
demands, they will then exert themselves to obtain redress
for us, our wills being good, but dare not act, being few in
number, and our little attempts have been treated with dis-
dain by the tools of power at home."

An anonymous Letter to Mr. Gomus, at Boston, dated

Caldwell Place, 26th April, 1775.

" There is a passage, that the Governour's Commission
was read on Monday, and that he has power to raise a
Canadian Regiment, and send it where he pleases."

Extract of a Letter dated Quebeck, April 21th, 1775,
from John McCord to Lieutenant James Pettegrew,
of the Tenth Regiment.

" We are impatient for the Packet; there are rumours
here of bad news ; have heavy fears for our friends at Bos-
ton on both sides the question. I pray God to grant peace
on almost any terms. The blood of British subjects is very
precious ; would gladly hope a method will still be found
out to prevent the spilling of any."

ABRAHAM LOTT TO NEW-YORK CONGRESS.

Mr. Lott having received an order from the Purser of
His Majesty's Ship Asia to supply the said ship with sun-
dry provisions, takes the liberty herewith to hand the same,
and to request the favour, that the Honourable Congress
will be pleased to signify their opinion, whether the order
shall be complied with, and whether he shall be at liberty
to supply the said ship with such other provisions as she
may from time to time have occasion for, for her own use,
during her stay in this Colony.
City of New- York, May 27, 1775.

To the Provincial Congress of New- York.

GOVERNOUR TRUMBULL TO NEW-YORK CONGRESS.

Hartford, May 27, A. D. 1775.

Gentlemen : The General Assembly of this Colony,
now sitting in this place, having received intelligence of
the imminent danger of the people at Ticonderoga and
Crown Point, by reason of a threatened attack from the
Province of Quebeck, in a letter from Colonel Arnold,
who, at present, commands there, of the 23d instant, a
copy of which we send you enclosed, which may deprive
the Colonies of those important posts, before the resolve
of the Continental Congress respecting them could be car-

847

CORRESPONDENCE, PROCEEDINGS, he, MAY, 1775.

848

ried into execution in your Province ; have, from the press-
ing and urgent necessity of the case, given orders that
five hundred pounds of powder should he sent there, and
that four companies of one hundred men each should march
immediately for support and defence of the men there, and
for the security and defence of the artillery and stores there,
until they may be removed and secured agreeable to the
resolve of the Continental Congress, or until relieved by
your Province.

This Assembly acquiesce in the resolve of Congress,
that puts the said fortresses under the direction of the
Province of New- York ; and in the steps they have now
taken, would by no means be considered as invading the
Province, or intermeddling with the service entrusted to the
Province of New- York ; but, as they first had the intelli-
gence of their danger, and had Troops ready which might
be spared for the present, they thought it their duty to pro-
vide against the present danger until you might be advised
of their situation, and take such measures as your wisdom
and prudence shall suggest for their safety and defence.

1 am, in behalf of the General Assembly of Connecticut,
with great truth and regard, gentlemen, your most obedient
and humble servant, Jonathan Trumbull.

The Honourable Provincial Congress of New- York.

GOVERNOUR TRUMBULL TO NEW-YORK CONGRESS.

Hartford, May 29, 1775.

Gentlemen : Your favour of the 25th instant, May,
came safe per Mr. Brown. This Assembly have entered
into the consideration of its contents, and have come into
the following resolutions in consequence thereof:

That one thousand men, (including those four compa-
nies which were before sent forward,) under command of
Colonel Benjamin Hinman, march as soon as possible to
Ticonderoga and Crown Point, for the support and de-
fence of those fortresses ; and that they there continue till
they are relieved by the Province of New- York, or are
otherwise ordered by this Assembly. That Colonel Hin-
man take the command of our troops destined to those
stations. That the troops be furnished with one pound of
powder and three pounds of bullets to each soldier. That
Colonel Hinman be ordered to keep up the strictest vigi-
lance to prevent any hostile incursion from being made
into the settlements of the Province of Quebeck ; and that
the Provincial Congresses of New- York and Massachu-
setts-Bay be advised of these measures, and the Neiv-
York Congress be requested to forward the necessary sup-
plies for said troops, and such further supplies of ammuni-
tion as they shall judge necessary.

The above transactions will manifest the readiness with
which this Assembly have complied with your desires. I
am, with great truth and regard, in behalf of the Govern-
our and Company of Connecticut, gentlemen, your most
obedient humble servant, Jonathan Trumbull.

To the Provincial Congress of New- York.

mill handy : 1 flat-bottom boat, of same size and construc-
tion, to go between Ticonderoga and the Landing, or Lake
Vhampiain: 4 gins, the triangles fifteen feet long — the
wood may be procured here : 8 falls for the gins, of three
and a half inch white rope, made of the best hemp : I
coil two and a half inch rope, 1 coil two inch rope, 1 coil
one and a half inch rope, 100 fathoms each : 4 pieces
raven duck: 10 barrels pitch: 4 barrels tar: 500 pounds
oakum : 40 pounds sewing twine : 10 dozen sail and roll
rope needles : 1 dozen palms : 3 seines, thirty fathoms long,
capped twelve feet and arms six feet deep, made of large
twine, the meshes one and a half inches wide, which will
probably supply the Army with fish, as they are very
plenty and good : 1 barrel twenty penny nails : 1 barrel
ten penny nails : 1 barrel four penny nails : 2 dozen nail
hammers, with other necessary tools for the house and
ship carpenters — iron may be supplied from Skenes-
borough ; steel will be wanted — 4 pair strong wheels,
wanted between Lakes George and Champlain, that will
carry three tons weight: 4 pair strong wheels wanted at
Fort George.

N. B. Common cart wheels will answer (if good) for
most of the small cannon : there will probably be wanted
at Fort George, 10 good teams of four yoke of oxen each,
to bring up provisions, &c, and take such cannon and
mortars to Albany as may be wanted by our Army at New-
York or Cambridge : 8 yoke of good oxen will be want-
ed at Ticonderoga — these may probably be procured in
the neighbourhood, of which Colonel Webb may inform
himself. Benedict Arnold,

Colonel and Commd't at Ticonderoga, S,-c.

BENEDICT ARNOLD TO NEW-YORK CONGRESS.

Ticonderoga, May 29, 1775.
Memorandum of Men, fyc, wanted for the ensuing sum-
mer, viz : 1200 men, including B. Arnold's Regiment of
400 men : 100 men of the train of artillery : 10 caulkers :
25 ship-carpenters : 2 gun-smiths : 2 surgeons, and their
mates: 20 men for ten teams: 20 masons and black-
smiths : 25 house-carpenters — the latter may doubtless be
found among the privates who enlist, except the master
workmen: 100 tents, with proper equipage: 600 hatchets:
100 narrow axes: 50 broad axes: 50 pickaxes: 200 spades:
200 wooden shovels, shod: 50 hoes : 100 camp kettles :
200 wooden canteens : arms, blankets, &,c, for the men.

I observe the Committee of New- York intend forwarding
a number of articles, for which reason I have omitted them.

Sundry necessaries for transporting the Cannon over Lake
George, viz :

To be built on Lake George, 2 flat-bottom boats, forty
feet long, twelve wide, and four deep, with strong knees,
well timbered, and of four-inch oak plank — these may
be built at Sparden's, where there is timber and a saw

Secretary of State's Office, Whitehall, May 30, 1775.

A report having been spread, and an account having
been printed and published, of a skirmish between some of
the people in the Province of Massachusetts-Bay and a
detachment of his Majesty's troops, it is proper to inform
the publick, that no advices have as yet been received in
the American Department of any such event.

There is reason to believe that there are despatches
from General Gage on board the Sukey, Captain Brown,
which, though she sailed four days before the vessel that
brought the printed accounts, is not yet arrived.*

LETTER FROM ARTHUR LEE.

London, Tuesday, May 30, 1775.

As a doubt of the authenticity of the account from Sa-
lem, touching an engagement between the King's Troops
and the Provincials in the Massachusetts-Bay, may arise

* London, June 1, 1775. — The publick are requested to attend one
moment to the conduct of Ministry, and they will forever detest their
duplicity. A massacre is attempted by the King's mercenaries in
America; the peaceable inhabitants of the Town of Concord are
wantonly fired on, and many are inhumanly murdered. Ministry,
unable to contest the proofs adduced in confirmation of this infamous
transaction, caused the foregoing paragraph to be inserted in the Ga.
zette.

To what does this shuffling State production amount ? Is the Ame.
rican massacre less true because no accounts of it have been received
at the Secretary's Office ? Is this a time to talk of departments, when
human blood, when the blood of our brethren is poured out like water
by a detachment of his Majesty's troops ? Are we to pay attention to
trivial formalities, when the sword is drawn, and the hands of the
King's troops are uplifted to cut the throats of our brethren ? Is
this a time to talk of the routine of office? If the news received,
of a detachment of his Majesty's troops having glutted themselves
with blood, if this news is untrue, why do Ministry not contradict it ?
And, if it be true, what have they to say ? Shall we adopt their lan-
guage, and call a bloody massacre a trifling skirmish ? Or are we
not to believe that either massacre or skirmish hath happened, be-
cause the American Department hath not as yet received those advices
from General Gage which are on board the Sukey ? The matter of fact
is, that Ministry are so confounded at the arrival of the news, that it
will require some timo before they can furbish up their account of the
matter. Bronzed as they are, and now all over besprinkled with the blood
of our brethren, it still requires some timo before facts can bo falsified,
or the truth wholly explained away. The Court Gazette may talk of
advices on board the Sukey, (which will never arrive,) but there are
better advices which havo arrived, wherein it is incontestably proved
that the King's troops have pillaged the houses, set fire to the stores,
and slaughtered the inhabitants of the Town of Concord. That a de-
tachment of his Majesty's regular troops, after a commission of these
crimes, should be forced to run away and shelter under the guns of a
man-of-war, was rather an unfortunate circumstance. If a wish re-
mains to be accomplished, it is, that in case a similar massacre should
be attempted, an English man-of-war may not be disgraced by afford-
ing protection to a banditti who are enlisted into his Majesty's service
for other purposes than that of butchering his subjects.

849

CORRESPONDENCE, PROCEEDINGS, fcc, MAY, 1715.

B50

from a paragraph in the Gazette of this evening, I desire
to inform all those who wish to see the original affidavits
which confirm that account, that they are deposited at the
Mansion House, with the Right Honourable the Lord
Mayor, for their inspection. Arthur Lee,

Agent for the House of Representatives of the
Massachusetts-Bay .

Thomas Allen, of this place, as a suitable person, who is
well known to General Bomeroy. 1 am, gentlemen, your
humble servant, James Easton.

To the honourable Provincial Congress at Jl'atcrtown, and
the honourable Committee of Safety at Cambriil</< .

N. B. It is necessary that provisions for the Troops be
provided immediately, and also a number of military laws
lately made by the Congress. J. E.

JAMES EASTON TO THE PROVINCIAL CONGRESS, COMMITTEE

OF SAFETY, AND COUNCIL OF WAR, IN CAMBRIDGE AND

WATERTOWN, MASS.

Pittsfiold, May 30, 1775.

May it please your Honours : When I arrived ex-
press from Ticonderoga to the honourable Provincial
Congress and Committee of Safety at iVatcrtoivn and
Cambridge, I represented to those two honourable Boards
that the reduction of that important fortress had took its
rise in the General Court of the Colony of Connecticut, as
it was also mentioned in the letter from Captain Mott to
those two honourable Boards aforesaid ; upon which the
Congress passed a resolve, and the President of the Con-
gress was ordered to write to the said General Assembly,
desiring them to garrison and fortify those late acquisitions,
and also to bring down some of the cannon to our head
quarters at Cambridge. When I arrived at the Assem-
bly and delivered the letter to the Governour, his Honour
told me that the Assembly had not, as an Assembly, taken
the matter up, but that it had its origin in private persons
belonging to the Assembly. However, it was immediately
attended to, and a Committee of both Houses was appoint-
ed to take the matter under consideration, and did so, but
did not report till Captain Mott came from the Continental
Congress with the approbation of that honourable body in
the taking and maintaining the fortress aforesaid. The
Council have detained me till farther intelligence can be
had from the Congress at Neiv- York, and Mr. Shephard
is sent in my stead. I am, however, sent on my way with
all haste for Ticonderoga, without receiving said intelli-
gence, on account of the great danger that fortress is in of
being besieged in a short time. By order of the aforesaid
Assembly, I have sent forward five hundred pounds of
powder under a proper guard, and shall this day hasten
after it with all expedition.

I expect no provision from Connecticut will be made for
me and the men that were with me from this Province at
the taking of said fort, which were about fifty, and about
one hundred who have gone as a re-enforcement, except the
paying them till about this time. Though Connecticut
will raise men, and assist in the defence of that fortress, yet
they expect that our Congress will properly officer and or-
ganize the men they send, and also pay them.

It is agreed on all hands the fortress must be maintain-
ed, as it is of infinite importance to the general cause. I
have no doubt but very violent attempts will soon be made
to wrest it out of our hands. As I have about one hundred
and fifty men now at that fort, and shall be able to fill up a
Regiment in a few days' time, I would just hint to your
Honours, that I should be willing to serve my Country in
the capacity I stand in at home, as head of a Regiment
on this northern expedition. Should you see fit to gratify
me with the command of a Regiment for the fortifying and
garrisoning said fortress, you may depend on my most
faithful exertions to defend it to the last extremity, against
the whole weight of Canada, and most punctual observance
of all your orders. And I shall be ready to make such
farther acquisitions as shall be in my power, consistent
with wisdom and prudence, for the safety of what are al-
ready made, that you in your wisdom shall direct.

As to other regimental officers, Capt. Israel Dickenson
and John Brown, Esq., have distinguished themselves very
highly, both in council and action, and in my humble opinion
are well qualified to command in the field. In a word, gen-
tlemen, what is now wanted is, that you put that fortress into
the best posture of defence, in conjunction with Connecti-
cut ; that you properly officer one or more Regiments, as
there must be order and command in all armies ; that you
nominate a Commander-in-Chief, and forward pay with all
expedition. I hope to receive an answer to this without
any unnecessary delay. Should you see fit to appoint a
Chaplain to attend us, I recommend to you the Reverend
Fourth Series. — Vol. ii. 54

NEW-YORK DELEGATES TO PROVINCIAL CONGRESS.

Philadelphia, May 30, 1775.

Gentlemen: We received your favour of the 26th in-
stant, and have the pleasure of informing you that the
manner in which you have executed your trust was very
acceptable to the Congress, to whom we communicated it.
We shall pay a particular attention to what you say on the
subject of a paper currency, since we are well apprized
both of its difficulty and importance ; and we wish you to be
speedy in your determinations upon it, as it may throw-
some light upon the subject that we may otherwise want.
You see by the order of the Congress heretofore sent you,
that they have trusted to your prudence the appointment
of officers. As we have the pleasure to hear that the prin-
cipal people in every County have stepped forth on this
important occasion, we make no doubt that they will con-
tinue the same conduct, and not refuse to accept those
commands which we imagine you will see the propriety of
placing in no other hands, both on account of the influence
they will have among yourselves, and the effect it may
probably have in England. If, gentlemen, there is any
thing that you may think serviceable to you, either on the
subject of the above resolves, or any other, you will oblige
us by a free communication of your thoughts upon the
same, to which, you may be persuaded, we will pay the
greatest deference. We would just hint, that if there are
any Counties in which no Committees have been chosen,
as we are informed there are, that it would be proper to
recommend that they be immediately elected, as the num-
bers interested will give strength to the cause. We observe
that Tryon County has not sent Deputies to your Conven-
tion, and would submit it to your consideration, whether it
would not be proper to send them a message, suggesting
the inconvenience attending such conduct, and the necessity
it will lay you under of breaking off all connexion with
them.

We should be glad to have a particular account from
you of any measures that you may have taken to establish
Port Beder. And are, gentlemen, with great respect,
your most obedient humble servants,

Jas. Duane, Lewis Morris,

John Alsop, Robt. Livingston, Jun,

Geo. Clinton, Phil. Livingston,

To the Provincial Congress of New- York.

GOVERNOUR TRUMBULL TO THE ALBANY COMMITTEE.

Hartford, May 30, 1775.

Gentlemen : Your favour of the 27th inst., by express,
came safe to hand ; the contents have been duly considered,
and in reply have the pleasure to acquaint you that we had
before received the resolve of the Congress of Ne w- York,
with their request to send forward some forces to the north-
ward, to keep those important posts, until such time as
they might be relieved by Troops from your Colony. We
have accordingly ordered one thousand Troops, under
command of Colonel Hinman, to march immediately to
Ticonderoga and Crown Point, furnished with one pound
of powder and three pounds of ball to each soldier, to con-
tinue there until relieved by the Province of New- York.
or are otherwise ordered ; also, sent forward, under the care
of Colonel Easton, of Pittsfield, five hundred weight of
powder for those fortresses, and forwarded advice of our
doings to the Provincial Congresses, both at Massachusetts
and New- York, just before the receipt of your letter,
which renders it unnecessary your express should go for-
ward to the Congress at Massachusetts-Bay. Colonel
Hinman is directed to exercise the greatest vigilance that
no incursions be made into the Province of Quebeck, to
disturb the inhabitants there. It is hoped that the Provin-
cial Congress at New-York will forward supplies of provi-

851

CORRESPONDENCE, PROCEEDINGS, fcc, MAY, 1"5.

852

sions, and whatever may be thought necessary; and that
the people in your Province, who are under the best ad-
vantage, from their situation, will spare no endeavours that
may be beneficial to preserve peace and harmony with the
Indians, and prevent their taking part against us, but rather
that they take part for the security of the liberties of these
Colonies, whereon their own happiness so much depends.

I am, with great truth and regard, in behalf of the Gov-
ernour and Company of the Colony of Connecticut, gentle-
men, your obedient and humble servant,

Jonathan Trumbull.

Sem'l Stringer, Esq., Chairman of Committee at Albany.

JONATHAN PARSONS, JUN., TO THE NEW- YORK COMMITTEE.
St. John's, Newfoundland, May 30, 1775.

Gentlemen : As liberty is the blessing, and ought to be
the care of all men, I need no other apology for this letter,
than to acquaint you 1 am an American, of Newbury port,
New- England. On my arrival here, the 19th instant,
from the Mediterranean, I was informed of the care you
had taken with regard to the exportation of bread and flour
to this Island, especially in the instance of Capt. Taverner,
commander of a ship belonging to Isaac and Benjamin
Lester, of Pool, in England, and loaded by T. Beach, of
New-York; which Lesters are noted enemies to American
liberty, as appears by the petition of the Town of Pool
for an exclusive right to the fishery on the Banks of New-
foundland, &tc, of which petition 1 am informed they were
the principal promoters, the contents of which you have
undoubtedly seen. I am able to inform you that, notwith-
standing your care relative to said ship, she arrived the
21th instant at Trinity, in this Island; and the necessities
of the people here for bread and flour are so great, that I
doubt not you will have numbers of vessels on your coast,
under various pretexts, to get bread and flour to supply
them. They are now at their wits end to find means to
acquire the necessaries of life; yet such is their inveterate
enmity against the Americans, that they cannot help breath-
ing out their malice at every opportunity, where their
interest is not immediately affected. Last Saturday a
schooner arrived here, belonging to Salem, in New-Eng-
land, from a fishing voyage ; the merchants immediately
sent the crier through the Town, to notify a meeting at
seven that evening, which was adjourned to Sunday, to
consult on the matter. It seems they were in hopes to get
some hold of her from some Acts of Parliament relative to
the regulation of the fishery in this Island, but finding their
expectations fail them, that they could not get her seized,
nor prevent an entry, they mustered their forces, seized
upon and sent her to sea; and what is more surprising to
me is, (if I am rightly informed,) that upon a promise of
indemnification, they obtained an order from the Judge of the
Admiralty for this extraordinary procedure, and that after
her being admitted to a legal entry in the Custom-House.

This, gentlemen, is the breath they breathe, and this
conduct is but the overflowing of that inveterate enmity
they have imbibed at the Americans, for their defending
that Constitution by which the throne is established, and
the rights of the people secured ; I say the overflowing,
because they cannot live without you, and are under the
greatest obligations to keep their enmity smothered as
much as possible. If they are denied bread and flour from
the Southern American Governments, the Newfoundland
fishery must break up. Canada is too uncertain to depend
on for any supplies ; that Country, with which I am ac-
quainted, is mostly low, and altogether clay land. If the
season is good, they generally have great crops; but if they
have too much or too little rain, they must have supplies
from abroad, or starve themselves : this the people here are
sensible of, and are trying all methods they can to obtain
present supplies from the Southern Governments, as they
have no intelligence how Canada may be stocked at pre-
sent. Would it not be surprising to see men breathing out
slaughter and death at the Americans, petitioning the Con-
tinental Congress to supply them with bread and flour ; and
pleading their not joining with the Pool men in the petition
abovementioned, as a reason why the prayer of their peti-
tion should be granted? Yet such I expect will be the
case, if the Canada market fails them, and the Govern-
ments to the southward are vigilant to watch the motions

of those vessels which make excursions to obtain bread and
flour by delusive evasions, many of which I expect will
soon make the experiment. However, gentlemen, though
I have already been drawn to a greater length than 1 at
first intended, I must, in faithfulness to several gentlemen,
beg your indulgence a little longer. Messrs. Robert and
Benjamin Jenkins have at all times publickly declared
their fixed determination to do nothing to the prejudice of
the American cause. Mr. Robert Bulky is also our stead-
fast friend, and I doubt not but we have many more in this
Town and Island ; but as I never saw this Island till a few
days past, I cannot give you their names.

1 am, gentlemen, with sentiments of esteem, your and
our Country's friend and humble servant,

Jonathan Parsons, Jin.
To the Committee of Safety for the City of New-York.

P. S. If you judge the above representation deserves
your attention, 1 would gladly contribute to remove the
difficulty you must labour under, by not being able to place
any confidence in the testimony of a stranger ; must, there-
fore, in that case, beg the favour of your writing a letter,
directed to the Honourable Benjamin Grecnlcaf, Esquire,
at Newburyport, New-England, to be communicated to the
Committee of Safety for that place, whose joint testimony
will doubtless set my character in its true light. Any use
may be made of the above which may tend to promote the
publick good. Yours, as above,

J. Parsons, Ji:n.

TO THE COMMITTEE OF SAFETY FOR SALEM.

Salem, May 30, 1775.

Whereas, we the subscribers, did some time since sign an
Address to Governour Hutchinson, which though prompt-
ed to by the best intentions, has, nevertheless, given great
offence to our Country ; we do now declare that we were
so far from designing by that action to show our acqui-
escence in those acts of Parliament so universally and justly
odious to all America, that, on the contrary, we hoped we
might in that way contribute to their repeal, though now,
to our sorrow, we find ourselves mistaken. And we do
now further declare, that we never intended the offence
which this Address has occasioned ; that if we had foreseen
such an event we should never have signed it ; as it always
has been, and now is, our wish to live in harmony with our
neighbours, and our serious determination to promote, to the
utmost of our power, the liberty, the welfare, and happi-
ness of our Country, which is inseparably connected with
our own.

John Nutting, Francis Cabot,

N. Goodale, N. Sparhawk,

Andrew Dalgleish, Nathaniel Dabney,
Thomas Barnard, William Pickman,

E. A. Holyoke, C. Gayton Pickman,

William Pyncbon, John Turner.

Ebenezer Putnam,

In Committee of Safety, Salem, May 30, 1775.

The declaration, of which the above is a copy, being
presented and read, it was voted unanimously that the
same was satisfactory, and that the said gentlemen ought
to be received and treated as real friends to this Country.

By order of the Committee :

Richard Derby, Jun., Chairman.

JOSHUA UPHAM TO THE COMMITTEE OF CORRESPONDENCE
OF THE TOWN OF BROOKFIELD.

May 20, 1775.

Gentlemen: Having been informed by one of your
body that my attendance was expected at this time, in order
that you inquire, under a late resolve of the Provincial
Congress, into my political principles and conduct ; in com-
pliance with your request I now make my appearance ;
and as written are much less liable to be misconceived,
misapplied, and misrepresented, than parole declarations,
I have chosen to declare myself in that way.

It is indeed a great misfortune at any time, but more
especially at this, to be deemed an enemy to one's Country.
I not only deny the charge, but abhor the character. I
shall not, however, pretend that 1 have in general approved

853

CORRESPONDENCE, PROCEEDINGS, kc, MAY, 1775.

854

of the measures pursued by the Colonies to obtain redress
of grievances, nor do I arrogantly set up my own private
judgment against the publick judgment of my Country, as
infallibly right. I can truly say that I shall rejoice at the
salvation of the Country, even though the same be obtained
by the very measures which have appeared to me to be
improper, and not likely to be successful. But to inquire
freely into the propriety of every publick measure, (pro-
vided the same, when established, be not resisted,) I have
ever held as an inalienable right, and what, in a great mea-
sure, constitutes the freedom of an Englishman.

I have ever deemed it the duty, as well as wisdom of
the individuals of every community, to submit and conform
to the sense and opinion of the majority of the members
of that community ; always reserving to themselves, and
saving entire and inviolate, the rights of conscience, private
judgment, and freedom of speech. Therefore I have not
resisted such measures as have been approved of by the
majority of the people, whether agreeable to my private
judgment or not. Upon the same principles I now declare,
that I mean and intend to submit to what I find to be the
sense and resolution of the majority of my countrymen,
and expect to bear an equal share and proportion of such
publick charge and expense as shall be deemed by such
majority necessary to extricate this Country out of its
present alarming and critical situation ; nor is there any
thing I hold so dear, in comparison of my Country's
good, that I would not risk in its defence — even life itself,
if necessary.

Therefore, as submission, or allegiance and protection,
are reciprocal duties and obligations, which ought ever to
subsist and take place with equal and mutual force between
rulers and those over whom they are appointed to rule, I
must expect, and shall depend upon it, that I am to be pro-
tected and secured in my person, family, and property, from
all violent attacks upon either ; which protection and secu-
rity, so far as it is within your power to afford me, I now
ask, and doubt not but I shall obtain the same ; which con-
cludes me, gentlemen, your most respectful friend and fel-
low-countrymen, Joshua Upham.

In Committee of Correspondence, Brookfield, )
May 30, 1775. $

The foregoing declaration being read and considered, and
vote asked of said Committee, and also of a number of
the inhabitants of the Town then present, whether said
declaration be satisfactory: it passed in the affirmative nemine
contradicente.

By order. Joshua Dodce, Chairman.

MASSACHUSETTS COMMITTEE OF SAFETY TO THE COM-
MITTEE OF SUDBURY.

Cambridge, May 30, 1775.
This Committee have taken into their consideration the
conduct of Ezra Taylor, Esq., in going into the Town of
Boston, and tarrying there a considerable time, since the
important nineteenth of April last ; and after examining him
as to his conduct, have dismissed him, and verbally advised
him to remain in the Town of Sudbury, as what we judged
best for him and the publick. Gentlemen, your good sense
will easily suggest your duty. We are, &tc.

SELECTMEN OF HOPKINTON TO MASSACHUSETTS CONGRESS.

May 30, 1775.
To the Honourable the Delegates of the Province of the
Massac husetts-Bay, in General Congress assembled:

Whereas there has been a false alarm this day spread
here in this part of the Province, whereby the people have
been called off from their labour, and much loss and ex-
pense incurred ; and judging that unless such things can be
prevented, husbandry will entirely be neglected: Where-
fore this Town have chosen a Committee of Safety, to
consist of five persons, whose names are as follow, viz:
Gilbert Dench, Samuel Park, Ebenezer Clajlin, Samuel
Haydev, and Jonathan Hull, who are to determine when
it is necessary for the people of this Town to march on any
alarm ; and hereby desire that the first intelligence may
be conveyed to one of them. We also desire that you

would be so kind to the Province as to appoint some certain
criterion, or signal, by which a true alarm may be distin-
guished from a false one. If by this we are able to suggest
any thing for the good of the Province, we are happy, and
are, with great respect and devotion, gentlemen, your hum-
ble servants, John Holmes, ) „ , . .
Samuel Park, ( &'«'*« °f
G.lbert Dench, $ HoPhinton-

COMMITTEE FOR MANCHESTER TO THE COMMITTEE FOR
CHEBACCO.

Manchester, May 30, 1775.
Gentlemen: A letter has been just received from Cam-
bridge by express, from General Ward to the Committee
for Salem, of which we subjoin a copy. As no particulars
appear, we think it prudent to notify you thereabout, and
inform you that there are eight tenders cruising around
us, six of which are gone to Salem, their decks filled with
boats, Sic. We desire you to forward the report to Ipswich,
as it is uncertain where the mischief will fall.

By order of the Committee of Correspondence for Man-
chester.

The following is a copy of the General's Letter :

" Head.Quarters, Cambridge, May 29, 1775.

" Sir : By information just received from Boston, I ap-
prehend the enemy intend to make an attack some where
this night ; therefore would have your people in readiness
to act on the shortest notice if there should be occasion.

" I am, &c, Artemas Ward."

Captain Marston sent the above to the Committee for
Chebacco, about half past ten o'clock.

Ipswich, May 30, 1775.
Gentlemen : I received the within intelligence about
one of the clock this day, and thought proper to let you
know what I have received. John Baker, Colonel.

To the Committee of Correspondence in Newbury port.

Newburyport, May 30, 1775, half past four o'clock.

Gentlemen: Having just received the above informa-
tion from Ipswich by express, we forward it to you with-
out delay.

Per order of the Committee : B. Greenleaf.

To the Committee of Correspondence of Hampton.

EXTRACT OF A LETTER FROM LONDON TO A GENTLEMAN IN
PHILADELPHIA, DATED MAY 31, 1775.

I cannot let Captain Hazlewood depart without sketch-
ing a few lines to you. You will find by the papers that
we have received an account from Salem of the defeat of
Colonel Smith, and the precipitate retreat of Lord Percy,
by the animated resistance of the brave Bostonians. This
intelligence, so contrary to the expectations of Govern-
ment, who have daily announced the Americans cowards,
has panick-struck Administration and their tory dependants,
and has exhilarated the spirits of the sons of America in
this metropolis, and the friends to freedom, in the most
exalted manner. It is impossible to describe the shame and
vexation which are visibly depicted in the countenances of
North and his tyrannical abetters. They are constrained
to acknowledge that the Regulars began the attack, and
equally forced to admit the intrepidity of our countrymen ;
but what alarms them most is the expectation of hourly re-
ceiving advice of the whole of General Gage's Army being
cut off, or meanly sheltering themselves on board the men-
of-war, or in the castle. God grant their total extirpation !
Government has not yet received any despatches from the
General ; she has craved a suspension of animadversions
on the news, until she can refute, or is compelled to authen-
ticate it. In the mean time stocks have had a shock, and
the people every where denounce vengeance against Bute,
Mansfield, North, Sandwich, and their ignominious adhe-
rents. I impatiently wait the next intelligence, as I have
no doubt we shall hear of farther significant manifestations
of American prowess, founded on that principle which God
and their right will inspire them with.

855

CORRESPONDENCE, PROCEEDINGS, &c, MAY, 1775.

S56

MECKLENBURGH (NORTH-CAROLINA) RESOLUTIONS.*

Chirlottctown, Mecklenburgh County, May 31, 1775.

This day the Committee of this County met, and passed
the following Resolves :

Whereas by an Address presented to His Majesty by
both Houses of Parliament in February last, the American
Colonies are declared to be in a state of actual rebellion ;
we conceive that all Laws and Commissions confirmed by,
or derived from the authority of the King or Parliament,
are annulled and vacated, and the former civil Constitution
of these Colonies for the present wholly suspended. To
provide in some degree for the exigencies of this County,
in the present alarming period, we deem it proper and
necessary to pass the following Resolves, viz:

i. That all Commissions, civil and military, heretofore

* THE DECLARATION OF INDEPENDENCE BY THE CITIZENS OF MECKLENBURGH
COUNTY, NORTH-CAROLINA, ON THE TWENTIETH DAY OF MAY, 1775, WITH
ACCOMPANYING DOCUMENTS; PUBLISHED BY THE GOVERNOUR, UNDER THE
AUTHORITY AND DIRECTION OF THE GENERAL ASSEMBLY OF THE STATE OF
NORTH-CAROLINA.

Report and Resolutions adopted by the General Assembly, at the ses-
sion of 1830-31, upon which this publication is predicated.
The Committee to whom it was referred to examine, collate, and ar-
range in proper order such parts of the Journals of the Provincial As-
semblies of North.Carolina as relate to the Declaration of American
Independence; also such documents as relate to the Declaration of
Independence made by the patriotick men of Mecklenburgh in May,
1775 ; and also such measures as relate to the same cause, adopted by
the freemen of Cumberland County, previous to the fourth of July,
1776, in order to the publication and distribution of such documents,
having performed the duty assigned thorn, respectfully report :

That upon an attentive examination of the Journals of the Provin-
cial Assembly of North-Carolina, which met at Halifax in the month
of April, 1776, the Committee are of opinion, that no selection could
be mado from the said Journal to answer the purpose of the House.
But as every thing relating to that period must be interesting to those
who value the blessing of national independence, the Committee re-
commend that the whole of the Journal be printed, and receive the
same extended distribution which the Resolution of the House contem-
plates for the proceedings in Mecklenburgh and Cumberland. This
course is deemed by the Committee the more proper, because the Jour,
nal is now out of print, and it is highly probable that the copy in the
possession of the Committee is the only one now extant.

Your Committee have also examined, collated, and arranged all the
documents which have been accessible to them, touching the Declara-
tion of Independence by the citizens of Mecklenburgh, and the pro-
ceedings of the freemen of Cumberland.

By the publication of these papers it will be fully verified, that as
early as the month of May, 1775, a portion of the people of North.
Carolina, sensible that their wrongs could no longer be borne, without
sacrificing both safety and honour ; and that redress, so often sought,
so patiently waited for, and so cruelly delayed, was no longer to be
expected, did, by a publick and solemn act, declare the dissolution of
the ties which bound them to the Crown and people of Great Britain,
and did establish an independent, though temporary Government, for
their own control and direction.

Tliis first claim of independence evinces such high sentiments of
valour and patriotism, that we cannot, and ought not lightly to esteem
the honour of having made it. The fact of the Declaration should
be announced, its language should be published and perpetuated, and
the names of the gallant Representatives of Mecklenburgh, with whom
it originated, should be preserved from an oblivion which, should it
involve them, would as much dishonour us, as injure them. If the
thought of independence did not first occur to them, to them, at least,
belongs the proud distinction of having first given language to the
thought ; and it should be known, and, fortunately, it can still be
conclusively established, that the Revolution received its first impulse
towards independence, however feeble that impulse might have been,
in North-Carolina. The Committee are aware that this assertion has
elsewhere been received with doubt, and at times met with denial ; and
it is, therefore, believed to be more strongly incumbent upon the House
to usher to the world the Mecklenburgh Declaration, accompanied with
such testimonials of its genuineness, as shall silence incredulity, and
with such care for its general diffusion, as shall forever secure it from
being forgotten. And in recounting the causes, the origin, and the
progress of our revolutionary struggle, till its final issuo in acknow-
ledged independence, whatever the brilliant achievements of other States
may have been, let it never be forgotten, that at a period of darkness
and oppression, without concert with othore, without assurances of
support from any quarter, a few gallant North-Carolinians, all fear of
consequences lost in a sense of their Country's wrongs, relying, under
Heaven, solely upon themselves, nobly dared to assert, and resolved to
maintain that independence, of which, whoever might have thought,
none had then spoken ; and thus earned for thomselves, and for their
fellow-citizens of North-Carolina, the honour of giving birth to the
first Declaration of Independence.

The Committee respectfully recommend the adoption of the follow,
ing Resolutions.

All of which is submitted. Thomas G. Polk, Chairman.

John Bragg,
Evan Alexander,
Louis D. Henry,
Alex. McNeill.

Resolved, That his Excellency the Governour bo directed to cause
to be published in pamphlet form the above Report, and the accompany.
ing documents, in the manner and order following, viz : After the Re-
port, first, the Mecklenburgh Declaration, with the Namos of the Dele.
gates composing the meeting ; second, the Certificates, testifying to
the circumstances attending the Declaration; third, the Proceedings

granted by the Crown, to be exercised in these Colonies,
are null and void, and the Constitution of each particular
Colony wholly suspended.

ii. That the Provincial Congress of each Province,
under the direction of the great Continental Congress, is
invested with all legislative and executive powers within
their respective Provinces, and that no other legislative or
executive power does, or can exist, at this time, in any of
these Colonies.

in. As all former laws are now suspended in this Prov-
ince, and the Congress have not provided others, we judge
it necessary, for the better preservation of good order, to
form certain rules and regulations for the internal govern-
ment of this County, until laws shall be provided for us
by the Congress.

of the Cumberland Association ; and that he be further directed to
have reprinted in like manner, separate and distinct from the abovo,
the accompanying Journal of the Provincial Assembly, hold at Hali-
fax in one thousand seven hundred and seventy-six.

Resolved, further. That after publication, the Governour be in-
structed to distribute said documents as follows, to wit : Twenty copies
of each to the Library of the State ; to each of the Libraries at the
University, ten copies ; to the Library of the Congress of the United
States, ten copies ; and one copy to each of the Executives of the
several States of the Union.

declaration of independence.
May 20, 1775. — Names of the Delegates present.
Col. Thomas Polk, Hezekiah J. Balch, James Harris,
Ephraim Brevard, John Phifer, William Kennon,

John Ford, Henry Downs, William Graham,

Richard Barry, Ezra Alexander, John Queary,

Abraham Alexander, Zacheus Wilson, Sen., Robert Irwin,
J. McKnitt Alexander, Waightstill Avery, John Flonniken,
Hezekiah Alexander, Benjamin Patton, David Reese,

Adam Alexander, Matthow M'Clure, Richard Harris, Sen.

Charles Alexander, Neil Morrison,

Abraham Alexander was appointed Chairman, and John McKnitt
Alexander Clerk. The following Resolutions were offered, viz :

1. Resolved, That whosoever directly or indirectly abetted, or in
any way, form or manner, countenanced the unchartered and danger-
ous invasion of our rights, as claimed by Great Britain, is an enemy
to this Country, to America, and to the inherent and inalienable rights
of man.

2. Resolved, That we, the citizens of Mecklenburgh County, do
hereby dissolve the political bands which have connected us to the
Mother Country, and hereby absolve ourselves from all allegiance to
the British down, and abjure all political connection, contract, or
association with that Nation, who have wantonly trampled on our
rights and liberties, and inhumanly shed the blood of American pa-
triots at Lexington.

3. Resolved, That we do hereby declare ourselves a free and inde-
pendent people ; are, and of right ought to be, a sovereign and self-
governing Association, under the control of no power other than that
of our God and the general government of the Congress ; to the main-
tenance of which independence, we solemnly pledge to each other
our mutual co-operation, our lives, our fortunes, and our most sacred
honour.

4. Resolved, That as we now acknowledge the existence and con-
trol of no law or legal officer, civil or military, within this County,
we do hereby ordain and adopt as a rule of life, all, each and every of
our former laws ; wherein, nevertheless, the Crown of Great Britain
never can be considered as holding rights, privileges, immunities, or
authority therein.

5. Resolved, That it is further decreed, that all, each, and every
military officer in this County, is hereby reinstated in his former com-
mand and authority, he acting conformably to these regulations. And
that every Member present, of this delegation, shall henceforth be a
civil officer, viz : a Justice of the Peace, in the character of a " Com-
mittee-man," to issue process, hear and determine all matters of con-
troversy, according to said adopted laws, and to preserve peace, union
and harmony in said County ; and to use every exertion to spread
the love of country and fire of freedom throughout America, until a
more general and organized Government be established in this Pro-
vince.

After discussing the foregoing Resolves, and arranging by-laws and
regulations for the government of a Standing Committee of Publick
Safety, who were selected from these Delegates, the whole proceedings
were unanimously adopted and signed. A Solect Committee was then
appointed to draw a more full and definite statement of grievances,
and a more formal declaration of independence. The Delegation then
adjourned about two o'clock, A. M., May 20.

A.

FROM THE RALEIGH REGISTER OF APRIL 30, 1819.

It is not probably known to many of our readers, that the citizens of Mecklcnburgh
County, in this Stale, made a Declaration of Independence more than a year before
Congress made theirs. The following- document on the subject has lately come to
the hands of the Kditor from unquestionable authority, and is published that it may
go down to posterity.

North-Carolina, Mecklenburgh County, May 20, 1775.

In the spring of 1775, the loading characters of Mecklenburgh
County, stimulated by that enthusiastick patriotism which elevates
the mind above considerations of individual aggrandizement, and
scorning to shelter themselves from the impending storm, by submis-
sion to lawless power, &.C., <V-c., held several detached meetings, in
each of which the individual sentiments were, " that the cause of Bos-

857

CORRESPONDENCE, PROCEEDINGS, Sjc, MAY, 1775.

858

iv. That the inhabitants of this County do meet on a
certain day appointed by this Committee, and having formed
themselves into nine Companies, viz : eight in the County,
and one in the Town of Charlotte, do choose a Colonel
and other military officers, who shall hold and exercise
their several powers by virtue of this choice, and indepen-
dent of the Crown of Great Britain and former Constitu-
tion of this Province.

[Then follows a number of Resolves, for the preserva-
tion of peace, and the administration of justice ; in order
to which, proper persons are to be chosen, empowered to
hear and determine all matters of controversy, or in cases
of felony, to commit persons convicted, to close confine-
ment ; and to answer all the purposes of regular Govern-

ton was tlic cause of all ; that their destinies were indissolubly con.
nected with those of their Eastern fellow-citizens; and that they must
either submit to all the impositions which an unprincipled, and to
them an unrepresented, Parliament might impose; or support their
brethren who were doomed to sustain the first shock of that power,
which, if successful there, would ultimately overwhelm all in the com.
mon calamity." Conformably to these principles, Colonel Thomas
Polk, through solicitation, issued an order to each Captain's Company
in the County of Meeklenhurgh, (then comprising the present County
of Cabarrus,) directing each Militia Company to elect two persons,
and delegate to them ample power to devise ways and means to aid
and assist their suffering brethren in Boston, and also generally to
adopt measures to extricate themselves from the impending storm, and
to secure unimpaired their inalienable rights, privileges, and liberties,
from the dominant grasp of British imposition and tyranny.

In conformity to said order, on the nineteenth of May, 1775, the
said Delegation met in Charlotte, vested with unlimited powers; at
which time official news, by express, arrived of the battle of Lexing-
ton on that day of the preceding month. Every Delegate felt the
value and importance of the prize, and the awful and solemn crisis
which had arrived; every bosom swelled with indignation at the
malice, inveteracy, and insatiable revenge, developed in the late attack
at Lexington. The universal sentiment was : let us not flatter our-
selves that popular harangues or resolves, that popular vapour will
avert the storm, or vanquish our common enemy ; let us deliberate ;
let us calculate the issue — the probable result ; and then let us act
with energy, as brethren leagued to preserve our property, our lives,
and, what is still more endearing, the liberties of America. Abraham
Alexander was then elected Chairman, and John McKnitt Alexander
Clerk. After a free and full discussion of the various objects for which
the Delegation had been convened, it was unanimously ordained :

1. Resolved, That whoever directly or indirectly abetted, or in any
way, form, or manner, countenanced the unchartered and dangerous
invasion of our rights, as claimed by Great Britain, is an enemy to
this Country, to America, and to the inherent and inalienable rights
of man.

2. Resolved, That we, the citizens of Mecklenburgk County, do
hereby dissolve the political bands which have connected us to the
Mother Country, and hereby absolve ourselves from ail allegiance to
the British Crown, and abjuro all political connection, contract, or
association with that Nation, who have wantonly trampled on our
rights and liberties, and inhumanly shed the innocent blood of Ame-
rican patriots at Lexington.

3. Resolved, That we do hereby declare ourselves a free and inde-
pendent people ; are, and of right ought to be, a sovereign and self-
governing Association, under the control of no power other than that
of our God and the general government of the Congress ; to the main,
tenance of which independence, we solemnly pledge to each other
our mutual co-operation, our lives, our fortunes, and our most sacred
honour.

4. Resolved, That as we now acknowledge the existence and control
of no law or legal officer, civil or military, within this County, we do
hereby ordain and adopt, as a rule of life, all, each and every of our
former laws ; wherein, nevertheless, the Crown of Great Britain
never can be considered as holding rights, privileges, immunities, or
authority therein.

5. Resolved, That it is also further decreed, that all, each, and
every military officer in this County, is hereby reinstated to his former
command and authority, he acting conformably to these regulations.
And that every Member present of this Delegation shall henceforth be
a civil officer, viz : a Justice of the Peace, in the character of a " Com-
mittee-man," to issue process, hear and determine all matters of con-
troversy, according to said adopted laws, and to preserve peace, and
union, and harmony, in said County; and to use every exertion to
spread the lovo of country and fire of freedom throughout America,
until a more general and organized Government be established in this
Province.

A number of by-laws were also added, merely to protect the Asso.
ciation from confusion, and to regulate their general conduct as citi-
zens. After sitting in the Court-Flouse all nigiit, neither sleepy, bun.
gry, nor fatigued, and after discussing every paragraph, they were all
passed, sanctioned, and decreed, unanimously, about two o'clock, A.
M., May 20. In a few days, a deputation of said Delegation con.
vened, when Captain James Jack, of Charlotte, was deputed as ex-
press to the Congress at Philadelphia, with a copy of said Resolves
and Proceedings, together with a Letter addressed to our throe Eepre.
gentatives there, viz : Richard Caswell, William Hooper, and Joseph
Hughes, under express injunction, personally, and through the State
representation, to use all possible means to have said proceedings sanc-
tioned and approved by the General Congress. On the return of Cap-
tain Jack, the Delegation learned that their proceedings were indi-
vidually approved by the Members of Congress, but that it was deemed
premature to lay thorn before the House. A joint letter from said
three Members of Congress was also received, complimentary of the

ment, till that shall be settled by the Grand Congress.
Provision is likewise made for the collection of Taxes, to
be paid into the hands of Committees; appointment of
collectors, removable at the pleasure of their constituents,
and to indemnify them for the money paid to the Com-
mittee.]

The 16th Resolve is,

xvi. That whatever person shall hereafter receive a Com-
mission from the Crown, or attempt to exercise any such
Commission heretofore received, shall be deemed an enemy
to his Country; and upon information to the Captain of the
Company in which he resides, the Company shall cause him
to be apprehended, and upon proof of the fact, committed
to safe custody, till the next sitting of the Committee, who
shall deal with him as prudence shall direct.

zeal in the common cause, and recommending perseverance, order,
and energy.

The subsequent harmony, unanimity, and exertion in the cause of
liberty and independence, evidently resulting from these regulations,
and the continued exertion of said Delegation, apparently tranquillized
this section of the State, and met with the concurrence and high
approbation of the Council of Safety, who held their sessions at New-
bern and Wilmington, alternately, and who confirmed the nomination
and acts of the Delegation in their official capacity.

From this Delegation originated the Court of Inquiry of this Coun-
ty, who constituted and held their first session in Charlotte — they then
held their meetings regularly at Charlotte, at Colonel James Harris's,
and at Colonel Phifer's, alternately, one week at each place. It was
a Civil Court founded on military process. Before this judicature, all
suspicious persons were made to appear, who were formally tried and
banished, or continued under guard. Its jurisdiction was as unlimited
as loryism, and it decrees as final as the confidence and patriotism
of the County. Several were arrested and brought before them from
Lincoln, Rowan, and the adjacent Counties.

[The foregoing is a true copy of the papers on the above subject,
left in my hands by John McKnitt Alexander, deceased. I find it
mentioned on file, that the original book was burned, April, 1800;
that a copy of the proceedings was sent to Hugh Williamson, in ATeir-
York, then writing a history of Nortlt-Carolina, and that a copy was
sent to General W. R. Davie. J. McKnitt.]

B.

State of North-Carolina, Meeklenhurgh County :

I, Sa?nuel Henderson, do hereby certify, that the paper annexed was
obtained by me from Major William Davie, in its present situation,
soon after the death of his father, General William R. Davie, and
given to Doctor Joseph McKnitt by me. In searching for some par-
ticular paper, I came across this, and knowing the handwriting of
John McKnitt Alexander, took it up and examined it. Major Davie
said to me (when asked how it became torn) his sisters had torn it, not
knowing what it was. Given under my hand, this 25th of November,
1830. Sam. Henderson.

[Xvte.— To this certificate or Doctor Henderson is annexed the copy of the paper A.
originally deposited by John McKnitt Alexander in the hands of General Davie, whose
name seems to have been mistaken by Mr. Jefferson for that of Governour Caswell.
This paper is somewhat torn, but is entirely legible, and constitutes the *' solemn and
positive proof of authenticity" which Mr. Jeffer son required, and which would doubtless
have been satisfactory, had it been submitted to him.]

CAPTAIN JACK'S CERTIFICATE.

Having seen in the newspapers some pieces respecting the Declara-
tion of Independence by the people of Meeklenhurgh County, in the
State of North-Corolina, in May, 1775, and being solicited to state
what I know of that transaction, I would observe, that for some time
previous to, and at the time those Resolutions were agreed upon, I re-
sided in the Town of Charlotte, Meeklenhurgh County ; was privy to a
number of meetings of some of the most influential and leading charac-
ters of that County on the subject, before the final adoption of the Re-
solutions, and at the time they were adopted. Among those who ap-
peared to take the lead, may be mentioned Hezekiah Alexander, who
generally acted as Chairman, John McKnitt Alexander, as Secretary,
Abraham Alexander, Adam Alexander, Major John Davidson, Major,
afterwards General William Davidson, Colonel Thomas Polk, Ezekiel
Polk, Doctor Ephraim Brevard, Samuel Martin, Duncan Ochletret,
William Willson, Robert Irvin.

When the Resolutions were finally agreed on, they were publicklv
proclaimed from the Court-House door in the Town of Charlotte, and
received with every demonstration of joy by the inhabitants.

I was then solicited to be the bearer of the proceedings to Congress,
I sat out the following month, say June, and in passing through Salis-
bury, the General Court was sitting ; at the request of the Court I
handed a copy of the Resolutions to Colonel Kennon, an attorney,
and they were read aloud in open Court. Major William Davidson,
and Mr. Avery, an attorney, called on me at my lodgings the evening
after, and observed, they had heard of but one person, (a Mr. Beard,)
but approved of them.

I then proceeded on to Philadelphia, and delivered the Meeklenhurgh
Declaration of Independence, of May, 1775, to Richard Caswell and
William Hooper, the Delegates to Congress from the State of North.
Carolina.

lam now in the eighty-eighth year of my age, residing in the County
of Elbert, in the State of Georgia. I was in the Revolutionary War,
from the commencement to the close.

I would further observe, that the Reverend Francis Cummins, a
Preslvtcrian Clergyman, of Greene County, in this State, was a stu.
dent in the Town of Charlotte at the time of the adoption of the Reso-
lutions, and is as well, or perhaps better aoqaainted with the proceed-
ings at that time, than any man now living,

Colonel William Polk, of Raleigh, in North. Carolina, was livino-
with his father, Thomas, in Charlotte, at the time I have been aveak-

8.59

CORRESPONDENCE, PROCEEDINGS, fee, MAY, 1775.

S60

HKSTEK COt'NTY (pEN'NSVLVANIa) COMMITTEE.

In Committee, Chester, May 31, 1775.

Whereas it appears very necessary, in order to avert the
evils and calamities which threaten our devoted Country,
to embody ourselves and make all the military preparations
in our power; and it appears absolutely impossible to carry
this laudable design into execution, without observing the
greatest order, harmony, and concord, not only under the
laws of civil Government, but also while under arms and
on actual duty. We, therefore, unanimously recommend
the following Association to be entered into by the good
people of this County:

We, the subscribers, do most solemnly resolve, pro-
mise, and engage, under the sacred ties of honour, virtue

ing of, and although then too young to he forward in the business, yet
the leading circumstances I have related cannot have escaped his
recollection. James Jack.

Signed this 7th of December, 1319, in presence of

Job Weston, C. C. O.,

James Oliver, Attorney-at-Laic.

C 2.

N orth-Carolina, Cabarrus County, November 29, 1830 :

We, the undersigned, do hereby certify, that we have frequently
William S. Alexander, deceased, say that he, the said William
•S. Alexander, was at Philadelphia on mercantile business, in the early
part of the summer of 1775, say in June ; and that on the day General
Washington left Philadelphia to take the command of the Northern
Army, he, the said William S. Alexander, met with Captain James
Jack, who informed him, the said William S. Alexander, that he, the
said James Jack, was there as the agent or bearer of the Declaration
of Independence made in Charlotte, on the twentieth day of May, sev.
enteen hundred and seventy.tive, by the citizens of Mecklenburgh, then
including Cabarrus, with instructions to present the same to tho Dele.
gates from North-Carolina, and by them to be laid before Congress,
and which he said he had done ; in which Declaration the aforesaid
citizens of Mecklenburgh renounced their allegiance to the Crown of
(Ireat Britain, and set up a Government for themselves, under the
title of The Committee of Safety. Given under our hands tho date
above written. Alpiionso Alexander,

Amos Alexander,
J. McKnitt.
D.

Lexington, Georgia, November 16, 1819.

Dear Sir : The bearer, the Honourable Thomas W. Cobb, has sug.
gested to me that you had a desire to know something particularly of
the proceedings of the citizens of Mecklenburgh County, in North-Caro-
lina, about the beginning of our Revolutionary War.

Previous to my becoming more particular, I will suppose you re-
;nembcr the Regulation business, which took its rise in or before the
year 1770, and issued and ended in a battle between the Regulators
and Governour Tryon, in the spring of 1771. Some of the Regulators
were killed, and the whole dispersed. The Regulators' conduct was
a "rudis indigestaque moles." as Ovid says about the beginning of
creation; but tho embryotick principles of the Revolution were in
their temper and views. They wanted strength, consistency, a Con.
grass, and a Washington at their head. Tryon sent his officers and
minions through the State, and imposed the oatli of allegiance upon
the people, even as far up as Mecklenburgh County. In the year 1775,
after our Revolution began, the principal characters of Mecklenburgh
County met on two sundry days, in Queen's Museum, in Charlotte, to
dLgost Articles for a State Constitution, in anticipation that the Prov.
ince would proceed to do so. In this business, tho leading characters
were, tile Reverend Hezekiah James Batch, a graduate of Princeton
College, an elegant scholar, Waightstill Avery, Esquire, attornoy-at-
hw, Hezekiah and John McKnitt Alexander, Esquires, Colonel Thos.
Polk,^ &c, &c.

Many men, and young men, (myself one,) before Magistrates, abjured
allegiance to George the Third, or any other foreign Power. At
length, in the same year, 1775, I think, at least positively before July
4, 1776, the males generally of that County met on a certain day in
Charlotte, and from the head of the Court-House stairs proclaimed In-
dependence on English Government, by their herald, Colonel Thomas
Polk. 1 was present, and saw and heard it, and as a young man, and
then a student in Queen's Museum, was an agent in these things. I
did not then take and keep the dates, and cannot, as to date, be so par-
ticular as I could wish. Captain James Jack, then of Charlotte, but
now of Elbert County in Georgia, was sent with the account of these
proceedings to Congress, then in Philadelphia, and brought back to
the County the thanks of Congress for their zeal, and the advice of
Congress to be a little more patient, until Congress should take tho
measures thought to be best.

I would suppose, Sir, that some minutes of these things must be
found among the records of the first Congress, that would perfectly
settle their dates. I am perfectly sure, being present at tho whole of
them, they were before our National Declaration of Independence.

Honourable Sir, if the above few things can afford you any gratifica-
tion, it will add to the happiness of your friend and humble servant,

Francis Coimin.-.

Hon. Nathaniel Macon.

E.

Veswius Furnace, October 4, 1830.

Dear Sir. : Agreeably to your request, I will give you the details of
the Mecklenburgh Declaration of Independence, on the 20th of May
1775, as well as I can recollect after a lapse of fifty-five years. I was
then a lad about half grown, was present on that occasion, (a looker on.)

During the winter and spring preceding that event, several popular
meetings of the people wero held in Charlotte, two of which I attend.

and love to our Country, that we will use our utmost en-
deavours to learn the military exercise, and promote har-
mony and unanimity in our respective Companies ; that
we will strictly adhere to the rules of decency during duty ;
that we will pay a due regard to our Oiiicers ; that we will,
when called upon, support with our utmost abilities the
civil Magistrate in the execution of the laws for the good of
our Country ; and that we will at all times be in readiness
to defend the lives, liberties, and properties of ourselves
and fellow-countrymen against all attempts to deprive us of
them."

Information being lodged with this Committee that Wil-
liam Moore, Esq., has expressed himself in terms inimical
to the liberties of America, and derogatory to the Conti-

ed; papers were read, grievances stated, and puhlick measures dis.
cussed. As printing was not then common in the South, tho papers
wore mostly manuscript ; one or more of which was from the pan of
the Reverend Doctor Reese, then of Mecklenburgh, which met with gen-
eral approbation, and copies of it circulated. It is to be regretted that
those and other papers published at that period, and the journal of their
proceedings are lost. They would show much of the spirit and tone
of thinking, which prepared them for tho measures they afterwards
adopted.

Un the 20th of May, 1775, besides the two persons elected from
each Militia company, (usually called Committee-men,) a much target
number of citizens attended in Charlotte than at any former meeting,
perhaps half the men in the County. The news of the battle of Lex.
ington, the 19th of April preceding, had arrived. There appeared
among the people much excitement. The Committee were organized
in the Court-House, by appointing Abraham Alexander, Esq., Chair,
man and John McKnitt Alexander, Esquire, Clerk or Secretary to the
meeting.

After reading a number of papers as usual, and much animated dis-
cussion, the question was taken, and they resolved to declare them-
selves independent. One among other reasons offered, that the King
or Ministry had, by proclamation or some edict, declared the Colonies
out of the protection of the British Crown ; they ought, therefore, to
declare themselves out of his protection, and resolve on independence.
That their proceedings might be in due form, a Sub-Committee, con.
sisting of Doctor Ephraim Brevard, a Mr. Kennon, an attorney, and
a third person, whom I do not recollect, were appointed to draft their
Declaration. They retired from the Court-House lor some time, but
tho Committee continued in session in it. One circumstance occurred
I distinctly remember : a member of the Committee, who had said but
little before, addressed the Chairman, as follows: "If you resolve on
independence, how shall we all be absolved from the obligations of tiie
oath we took to be true to King George the Third, about four years
ago, after the Regulation battle, when we were sworn, whole Militia
companies together. I should be glad to know how gentlemen can
clear their consciences after taking that oath." This speech produced
confusion. Tho Chairman could scarcely preserve order, so many
wished to reply. There appeared great indignation and contempt ut
the speech of the member. Some said it was nonsonso; others, that
allegiance and protection were reciprocal ; when protection was with-
drawn allegiance ceased ; that the oath was only binding while the
King protected us in the enjoyment of our rights and liberties, as they
existed at the time it was taken, which he had not done, but now de-
clared us out of his protection, therefore was not binding. Any man
who would interpret it otherwise, was a fool. By way of illustration,
(pointing to a green tree near the Court-House) stated, if he was sworn
to do any thing as long as the leaves continued on that tree, it was so
long binding; but when the leaves fell, he was discharged from its
obligation. This was said to be certainly applicable in the present
case. Out of respect for a worthy citizen, long since deceased, and his
respectable connexions, I forbear to mention names ; for, though he
was a friend to the cause, a suspicion rested on him in the publick
mind for some time after.

The Sub-Committee appointed to draft the Resolutions, returned,
and Doctor Ephraim Brevard read their report, as near as I can recol.
lect, in the very words we have since seen them several times in print.
It was unanimously adopted ; and shortly after, it was moved and se.
condod to have proclamation made, and the people collected, that the
proceedings be read at the Court-House door, in order that all might
hear them. It was done, and they were received with enthusiasm. It
was then proposed by some one aloud, to give three choers and throw
up their hats. It was immediately adopted, and tho hats thrown.
Several of them lit on the Court-House roof; the owners had some
difficulty to reclaim them.

The foregoing is all from personal knowledge. I understood after,
wards, that Captain James Jack, then of Charlotte, undertook, on the
request of the Committee, to carry a copy of their proceedings to Con-
gress, which then sat in Philadelplria ; and on Ins way, at Salit
the time of Court, Mr. Kennon, who was one of tho Committee who
assisted in drawing the Declaration, prevailed on Captain Jack to get
his papers, and have them read publickly ; which was dene, am
proceedings mat with general approbation. But two of the law
John Dtt Mr. Booth, dissented, and asserted they were trea-
sonable, lavourod to have Captain Jack detained. He drew
his pistols, and threatened to kill tho first man who would interrupt
him, and passed on. The news of this reached Charlotte in a short
time at; eutive of the Committee* whom they had in.
vested w lie powers, ordered a party of ten or twelve armed
horsemen to lawyers from Salisbury; when they were
brought, and I he ease investigated before the Committee. Dunn, on
giving boc lermitted to return, and

Booth v.- ) ■ to Camden, in olina, out of the

sphere o: -i , or ', <■' "' " '■ 'raham, and the late Colo-

nel Jnh pi :' tiie party that went to Salisbury ; and it is dis.

tinctly i when in Charlotte they came home at night,

in order to provide for their trip to Camden; and that they and two
others of the party took Booth to that place. This was the first mill-

861

CORRESPONDENCE, PROCEEDINGS, fee., MAY, 1775.

862

nental Congress ; and as a special Committee is now ap-
pointed to examine into the affair, the publick are desired
to suspend their judgment until Mr. Moore has had an
opportunity either to exculpate himself from the charge, or
make proper acknowledgment to his Country.
By order of the Committee :

Fhancis Johnson, Secretary.

TO LORD SANDWICH.

Philadelphia, May 31, 1773.
My Lord : I congratulate your Lordship on an instance
of American cowardice, which your Lordship had so pro-
phetically foretold.* The instance I allude to is to be found

tary expedition from Mecklenburgh in the Revolutionary War, anil be-
lieved to be the first any wiiere to the South. Yours, respectfully,

J. Graham.
Dr. Joseph McKt. Alexander, Mecklenburgh, N. C.

F.

EXTRACT FROM THE MEMOIR OF THE LATE REV. HUMPHREY HUNTER.

< rrders were presently issued by Colonel Thomas Polk, to the several
Militia companies, that two mon, selected from each Corps, should
meet at the Court-House on the 19th of May, 1775, in order to consult
with each other upon such measures as might bo thought best to be
pursued. Accordingly, on said day a far larger number than two out
of each company wero present. There was some difficulty in choosing
the Commissioners. To have chosen all thought to he worthy, would
have rendered the meeting too numerous. The following were select,
ed, and styled Delegates, and are here given, according to my best re.
collection, as they were placed Oft roll: Abram Alexander, Senior,
Thomas Polk, Richard Harris, Senior, Adam Alexander, Richard Bar.
ry, John McKnitt Alexander, Neil Morrison, Hezekiah Alexander, He.
zrkiah J. Batch, Zacheus Wilson, John Phifer, James Harris, William
Kennon,John Ford, Henry Downs, Ezra Alexander, William Graham,
John Queary, Charles Alexander, Waitstill Avery, Ephraim Brevard,
Benjamin Palton, Matthew McClure, Robert Irwin, John Flenniken,
and David Reese.

Abram Alexander was nominated, and unanimously voted to tho
Chair. John McKnitt Alexander and Ephraim Brevard were chosen
Secretaries. The Chair being occupied, and the Clerks seated, the
House was called to order, and proceeded to business. Then a full, a
free, and dispassionate discussion obtained, on the various subjects for
wriieli tho delegation had been convened, and the following Resolu-
tions were unanimously ordained :

1st. Resolved, That whosoever directly or indirectly abetted, or in any
way, form, or manner, countenanced the unchartered and dangerous
invasion of our rights, as claimed by Great Britain, is an enemy to this
Country, to America, and to the inherent and inalienable rights of man.
2d. Resolved, That we, the citizens of Mecklenburgh County, do
hereby dissolve the political bands which have connected us to the
Mother Country, and hereby absolve ourselves from all allegiance to
the British Crown, and abjure all political connexion, contract, or asso-
ciation, with that Nation, who have wantonly trampled on our rights
and liberties, and inhumanly shed the blood of American patriots at
Lexington.

3d. Resolved, That we do hereby declare ourselves a free and inde-
pendent people ; are, and of right ought to be, a sovereign and self-
governing Association, under the control of no power other than that
of our God and the general government of the Congress; to the main-
tenance of which independence, we solemnly pledge to each other our
mutual co-operation, our lives, our fortunes, and our most sacred honour.
4th. Resolved, That as we now acknowledge the existence and con-
trol of no law or legal officer, civil or military, within this County, we
do hereby ordain and adopt, as a rule of life, all, each and every of our
former laws, wherein, nevertheless, the Crown of Great Britain never
can be considered as holding rights, privileges, immunities, or authority
therein.

5th. Resolved, That it is further decreed, that all, each and every
military officer in this County, is hereby reinstated in his former com-
mand and authority, he acting conformably to these Regulations. And
that every nu ent, of this Delegation, shall honceforth be a

civil officer, viz : B Justice of the Peaco, in the character of a "Com-
mittee-man," to issuo process, hear and determine all matters of con-
troversy, according to said adopted laws, and to preserve peace, union,
and harmony in said County ; and to use every exertion to spread the
love of country and fire of freedom throughout America, until a more
general and organized Government bo established in this Province.

Those Resolves having been concurred in, by-laws and regulations
for the government of a Standing Committee of Public Safety were
enacted and acknowledged. Then a Select Committee was appointed,
to report on the ensuing day a full and definite statement of grievances,
together with a more correct and formal draught of the Declaration of
Independence. The proceedings having been thus arranged, and some-
what in readiness for promulgation, the Delegation then adjourned until
to-morrow, at twelvo o'clock.

The 20th of May, at twelve o'clock, the Delegation, as above, had
convened. The Select Committee were also present, and reported
agreeably to instructions, viz : a statement of grievances, and formal
draught of tho Declaration of Independence, written by Ephraim Bre-
vard, Chairman of said Committee, and read by him to tho Delegation.
The Rosolves, By-Laws, and Regulations, wore read by John McKnitt
Alexander. It was then announcod from the Chair, Are you alt agreed ^
There was not a dissenting voice. Finally, the whole proceedings were
read distinctly and audibly at the Court-Houso door, by Colonel Thomas
Polk, to a large, respectable, and approving assemblage of citizons who
were present, and gave sanction to tho business of tho day. A copy of
all those transactions were then drawn off, and givon in charge to Cap.
tain Jamts Jack, then of Charlotte, that he should present them to
I 'undress, then in session in Philadelphia.

On that memorable day I was twenty years and fourteen days of age,

-March 16, 1775. See Vol. I. 1G81.

in General Gage's circumstantial account, or narrative of
the attack or battle at Lexington and Concord, in the Prov-
ince of Massachusetts-Bay, in which he gives a clear and
impartial account of the barbarity of the Americans, as well
as that of their cowardice. I make no doubt but the Yan-
koos will pretend not to believe it, especially the barbarity,
which is not quite so clear ; but as to the cowardice, it is so
incontestably proved, that they themselves will not under-
take to deny, if they do not own it. The General, in this
sensible and masterly performance, says a man had ad-
vanced from the Provincials assembled at Lexington, and
attempted to shoot the Regulars by snapping his gun, which
flashed in the pan ; and that on the attack of the Troops
at Concord bridge, after some of them had fallen, and they

a very deeply interested spectator, recollecting the dire hand of oppres-
sion that had driven mo from my native clime, now pursuing me in this
happy asylum, and seeking to bind again in the fetters of bondage.

On the return of Captain Jack, he reported that Congress, indivi-
dually, manifested their entire approbation of the conduct of the Meek.
lenbwgk citizens, but deemed it premature to lay them officially before
the House.

Sote.— 1 lie foregoing extract is copied from a manuscript account or the Revolu-
tionary War in the South, addressed by the writer to a friend, who had iCqilMUt) lir-
Uirical information upon tint subject. Mr. Hunter was in the battle of Camttcn. and
has given an interesting narrative of the circumstances connected Witt the diatti nf
Baroit lie Kalli. The manuscript gives the biography of the writer, from which it
appears he was a native of Iri'tantt, and born on the 14th of May, 1755, and at an early
age emigrated front Iris nauve land to the Province of North-Carolina.

Additional Papers. — From the Raleigh Register, February 18, 1820.

MECKLENBURGH DECLARATION OF INDEPENDENCE.

When this Declaration was fust published in April last, some doubts were expressed
in the Eastern papers as to its authenticity, (none of the Histories of the Hevoliilion
1 . ■ T ■* • 1 .i.....: ................ \ .-.I I Milt— . u.n. ...'.I.:- '■:... .-.. i. ,i i.

a mere youth at the time, was present at the meeting which made the Declaration,
and whose fathi r being Colonel of the County, appears to have acted a conspicuous
part on the occasion,) obsi rving this, assured us oi the correctness of the iucts gene-
rally, though bethought thtrc si ret rrours as to the name of the Secretary, oic.and
s;.i<! thai he should probably be able to correct these, and throw some further light
on the subject, by inquiries amongst some of his old friends in Mecklenburgh Coun-
ty, it' has accordingly made inquiries, and communicated to us the following Do-
cuments as the result, which, w-e presume, will do away all doubts on the subject.

CERTIFICATE.

State of North-Carolina, Mecklenburgh County :

At the request of Colonel William Polk, of Raleigh, made to Major-
General George Graham, soliciting him to procure all the information
that could be obtained at this late period, of the transactions which
took place in the County of Mecklenburgh, in the year 1775, as it re-
spected the people of that County having declared Independence ; of
tho time when the Declaration was made ; who were tho principal
movers and leaders, and the members who composed the body of Pa-
triots who made the Declaration, and signed the same :

We, the undersigned citizens of the said County, and of the several
ages set forth opposite to each of our names, do certify, and on our
honour declare, that wo were present in the Town of Charlotte, in the
said County of Mecklenburgh, on the 19th day of May, 1775, when two
persons elected from each Captain's Company in said County, appeared
as Delegates, to take into consideration the state of the Country, and
to adopt such measures as to them seemed best, to secure their lives,
liberty, and property, from the storm which was gathering, and had
burst upon their fellow-citizens to the Eastward, by a British Army,
under tho authority of the British King and Parliament.

The order for the election of Delegates was given by Colonel Tho.
mas Polk, the commanding officer of the Militia of the County, with
a request that their powers should be ample, touching any measure that
should be proposed.

We do further certify and declare, that to the best of our recollection
and belief, the delegation was complete from every company, and that
the meeting took place in tho Court-House, about 12 o'clock on the
said 19th day of May, 1775, when Abraham Alexander was chosen
Chairman, and Doctor Ephraim Brevard Secretary. That the Dele-
gates continuod in session until in the night of that day ; that on the
20th they again met, when a Committee, under the direction of the
Delegates, had formed several Resolves, which wore read, and which
wont to declare themselves, and the people of Mecklenburgh County,
free and independent of the King and Parliament of Great Britain —
and that, from that day thenceforth, all allegianco and political rela-
tion was absolved between tho good people of Mecklenburgh, and the
King of Great Britain; which Declaration was signed by every mem-
ber of the Delegation, undor the shouts and huzzas of a very large as-
sembly of the people of the County, who had come to know the issue
of the meeting. We further believe, that tho Declaration of Indepen-
dence was drawn up by the Secretary, Doctor Ephraim Brevard, and
that it was conceived and brought about through the instrumentality
and popularity of Colonel Thomas Polk, Abraham Alexander, John
MlKnitt Alexander, Adam Alexander, Ephraim Brevard, John Phifer,
and Hezekiah Alexander, with some others.

We do further certify and declare, that in a few days after the Dele-
gates adjourned, Captain James Jack, of the Town of Charlotte, was
engaged to carry the Resolves to tho President of Congress, and to our
Representatives — one copy for each ; and that his expenses wore paid
by a voluntary subscription. And we do know that Captain Jack exe-
cuted the trust, and returned with answers, both from the President
and our Delegates in Congress, expressive of their entire approbation
of the course that had been adopted, recommending a continuanco in
tho same ; and that the timo would soon bo, when the whole Continont
would follow our example.

We further oortify and deolare, that the measures which were adopt.
ed at tho time before montioned, had a general influence on the people
of thio County to unite them in the cause of liberty and the Country,
at that time ; that the same unanimity and patriotism continued unim-
paired to the close of tho war ; and that the Resolutions had considerable
n harmonizing tho people in two or three adjoining Counties.
That a Committee of Safety for tho County were elected, who were
clothed with civil and military power, and under their authority set

868

CORRESPONDENCE, PROCEEDINGS, &c, MAY. 1775.

804

began their retreat, they observed soldiers dead on the
ground, one of them scalped and his ears cut oft", though
not quite dead ; from which it is very clear that one or
more of the Provincials had the cowardice to go in amongst
the Regular Troops, and cut ofl' the ears of a soldier that
had fallen, though not quite dead.

This, my Lord, may seem no less odd than true, for it
is fully proved ; for unless the soldier's ears had been cut off
whilst among the body of Regulars, they could not possibly
have known it, as they do not pretend, nor the Provincials
believe, that they ever regained any ground they had re-
era] disaffected persons in Rowan ami Tryon (now Lincoln County)
were sent for, examined, and conveyed (alter it was satisfactorily proven
they Mn Inimical) to Camden, in South Carolina, fof safekeeping.

We do further certify, that the acts passed by the Comiuitteo of
Safety, were received as the civil law of the land in many cases, and
that Courts of Justice for the decision of controversies Between the
peopla were held, and we have no recollection that dissatisfaction ex-
isted in any instance with regard to the judgments of said Courts.

We are not, at this lato period, able to give the names of all the
Delegation who formed the Declaration of Independence ; hut can
safely declare as to the following persons being of the number, viz :
Thomas Polk, Abraham Alexander, John M'Knitt Alexander, Adam
Alexander, Ephruim Brevard, John I'hifir, Hezekiah James Bulsh,
Benjamin Patton, Hexekiah Alexander, Richard Barry, William Gra.
him, Matthew M'Clure, Robert Irwin, Zacheus Wilson, Neil Morrison,
John Flenniken, John Queary, Ezra Alexander,

In testimony of all and every part herein set forth, we have here,
unto set our hands. Geo. Graham, aged 61, near 62.

W.M. Hutchinson, 68.
Jonas Clark, 61.

Robert Robinson, 68.

from john simeson to colonel william polk.

" Providence, January 20, 1820.

" Dear Sir : After considerable delay, occasioned partly to obtain
what information I could, in addition to my own knowledge of tho
facts in relation to our Declaration of Independence, and partly by a
precarious, feeble old age, I now write to you in answer to yours of tho
21th ult.

" I have conversed with many of my old friends and others, and all
agree in the point, but few can state the particulars ; for although our
County is renowned for general intelligence, we have still some that
don't read the publick prints. You know, in the languago of the day,
every Province had its Congress, and Mecklenburgh had its County Con-
gress, as legally chosen as any other, and assumed an attitude until
then without a precedent ; but, alas ! those worthies who conceived
and executed that bold measure, are no more ; and one reason why so
little new light can be thrown on an old truth, may be this — and I ap-
peal to yourself for the correctness of the remark — we, who are now
called Revolutionary men, were then thoughtless, precipitate youths ;
we carod not who conceived the bold act, our business was to adopt and
support it. Yourself, sir, in your eighteenth year and on the spot, your
worthy father, the most popular and influential character hi the Coun.
ty, and yet you cannot state much from recollection. Your father, as
commanding officer of tho County, issued orders to the Captains to ap-
point two men from each company to represent them in the Commit-
tee. It was done. Neill Morrison, John Flenniken, from this Com-
pany ; Charles Alexander, John M'Knilt Alexander, Hezekiah Alex.
under, Abraham Alexander, Esq., John Phifer, David Reese, Adam
Alexander, Dickey Barry, John Queary, with others, whose names I
cannot obtain. As to the names of those who drew up the Declara-
tion, 1 am inclined to think Doctor Brevard was the principal, from
his known talents in composition. It was, however, in substance and
form, like that great national act agreed on thirteen months after.
Ours was towards the close of May, 1775. In addition to what I have
said, the same Committee appointed three men to secure all tho mili-
tary stores for the County's use — Thomas Polk, John Phifer, and Jo.
seph Kennedy. I was under arms near the head of the line, near Col-
onel Polk, and heard him distinctly read a long string of grievances,
the declaration, and military order above. I likewise heard Colonel
Polk have two warm disputes with two men of the County, who said
the measures were rash and unnecessary. Ho was applauded and they
silenced. I was then in my 22d year, an enemy to usurpation and
tyranny of every kind, with a retentive memory, and fond of liberty,
that had a doubt arisen in my mind that the act would be controverted,
proof would not have been wanting; but I comfort myself that none
but the self-important peace-party and blue. lights of the East, will
have the assurance to oppose it any further. The biographer of Pa-
trick Henry, (Mr. Wirt) says ho first suggested independence in tho
Virginia Convention ; but it is known they did not reduce it to action —
so that it will pass for nothing. The Courts likewise acted indepen-
dently. I myseif heard a dispute take place on the bench, and an acting
Magistrate was actually taken and sent to prison by an order of the
Chairman.

" Thus, Sir, havo I thrown together all that I can at this time. I
am too blind to write fair, and too old to write much sense — but if my
deposition beforo the Supreme Court of the United States would add
more weight to a truth so well known here, it should be at the service
of my fellow-citizens of the County and State generally.

" I am, Sir, your friend and humble servant,

" John Simeson, Sen."

" P. S. I will give you a short anecdote. An aged man near me, on
being asked if ho knew any think of this affair, replied, " Och, aye,
Tam Polk declared independence long before any body else." This old
man is 81."

CERTIFICATE OF ISAAC ALEXANDER.

I hereby certify that I was present in Charlotte on the 19th and 20th
days of May, 1775, when a regular deputation from all the Captains'
companies of Militia in tho County of Mecklenburgh, to wit: Colonel
Thomas Polk, Adam Alexander, Lieutenant-Colon: 1 Ahrarn Alexander,
John M'Knitt Alexander, Hezekiah Alexander, Ephruim Brevard and
a numbor of others, who met to consult and take measures for the peace

treated over; and besides, my Lord, as proof, if his ears
had been cut off after they had retreated, and left him on
the ground which the Provincials had gained, the King's
Troops could not possibly hate seen him to prove it.
Another instance, my Lord ; one of them bad the cow-
ardice to strike Major l'iiatini at the head of his Troops ;
so that, my Lord, I think I have very fully proved to your
Lordship at least, (and for which I hope to be rewarded.)
the clearest and most flagrant instances of American cow-
ardice, and which, 1 think, is mute sufficient to satisfy your
Lordship, that a few more Troops, in addition to those

and tranquillity of the citizens of said County, and who appointed
Abraham Alexander their Chairman, and Doctor Ephraim Brevard
Secretary, who, alter doe consultation, doclared themselves absolved
from their allegiance to tho King of Great Britain, and drew up a de-
claration of their independence, which was unanimously adopted ; and
employed Captain Jamrs Jack to carry copies thereof to Congress,
who accordingly went. These are a part of the transactions that took
place at that time, as far as my recollection serves me.

Isaac Alexander.
October 8, 1830.

CERTIFICATE OF SAMCEI. WILSON.

State of North-Carolina, Mecklenburgh County:

I do hereby certify, that in May, 1775, a Committee or Delegation
from the different Militia Companies in this County, met in Charlotte ;
and after consulting together, they publickly declared their indepen-
dence on Great Britain, and on her Government. This was done before
a large collection of people, who highly approved of it. I was then and
there present, and heard it read from the Court-House door. Certified
by me. Sam'l Wilson.

CERTIFICATE OF JOHN DAVIDSON. •»

Beaver Dam, October 5, 1830.

Dear Sir : I received your note of tho 25th of hist month, requir-
ing information relative to the Mecklenburgh Declaration of Indepen-
dence. As I am, perhaps, the only person living who, as a member of
that Convention, and boing far advanced in years, and not having my
mind frequently directed to that circumstance for some years, I can
give you but a very succinct history of that transaction. There were
two men chosen from each Captain's company, to meet in Charlotte, to
take the subject into consideration. John M'Knitt Alexander and
myself were chosen from one company ; and many other members
were there that I now recollect, whose names I deem unnecessary to
mention. When the members met, and were perfectly organized for
business, a motion was made to declare ourselves independent of the
Crown of Great Britain, which was carried by a large majority. Doc-
tor Ephraim Brevard was then appointed to givo us a sketch of the De-
claration of Independence, which he did. James Jack was appointed
to take it on to the American Congress, then sitting in Philadelphia.
with particular instructions to deliver it to the Norlh.Carolina Delega-
tion in Congress, {Hooper and Caswell.) When Jack returned, he
Btated that the Declaration was presented to Congress, and the reply
was, that they highly esteemed tho patriotism of the citizens of Meek,
lenburgh ; but they thought the measure too premature.

I am confident that the Declaration of Independence by the people
of Mecklenburgh was made publick at least twelve months before that
of the Congress of the United States.

I do certify that tho foregoing statement, relative to the Mecklen-
burgh Independence, is correct, and which Iain willing to be qualified
to, should it be required. Yours respectfully, John Davidsok.

Dr. J. M. Alexander.

LETTER FROM J. O. M. RAMSEY.

Mecklenburgh, T. October 1, 1830.

Dear Sir : Yours of the 21st ultimo was duly received. In answer
I havo only to say, that little is in my possession on the subject alluded
to which you havo not already seen. Subjoined are the certificates of
two gentlemen of this County, whose respectability and veracity are
attested by their acquaintances here, as well as by the accompanying
testimonials of the Magistrates in whose neighbourhood they reside.
With this you will also receive extracts from letters on the same sub-
ject from gentlemen well known to you, and to the Country at large.

I am, very respectfully, yours, &c. J. G. M. Ramslv.

CERTIFICATE OF JAMES JOHNSON.

I, James Johnson, now of Knox County, Tennessee, but formerly of
Mecklenburgh County, North-Carolina, do hereby certify, that to the
best of my recollection, in tho month of May, 1775, there were sevi ral
meetings in Charlotte concerning the impending war. Being young,
I was not called on to take an active part in tho same ; but one thing I
do positively remember, that she {Mecklenburgh County) did meet and
hold a Convention, declared independence, and sent a man to Phila-
delphia with the proceedings. And I do further certify, that I am well
acquainted with several of the men who formed or constituted said
Convention, viz : John M'Knitt Alexander, Hezekiah Alexander, Abra-
ham Alexander, Adam Alexander, Robert Irwin, Neill Murrison, John
Flenniken, John Queary,

Certified by me this 1 1th day of October, 1827.

James Johnson, in my seventy third year.

CERTIFICATE OF ELIJAH JOHNSON AND JAMES WILHITE.

We, Elijah Johnson and James Wilhite, acting Justices of the Peace

for the County of Knox, do certify, that we have been a long time

cquainted with Samuel Montgomery and James Johnson, both

residents of Knox County; and that they are entitled to full credit,

and any statement they may make to implicit confidence.

Given under our hands and seals this 4th day of October, 1830.

jah Johnson, (seal.)
James Wilhite, (seal.)
Justices of the Peace for Knox Cuunty.

Kote.-. Mr. Montgomery's Certificate tl<" I not purport to state the facts as Iiaring
con.,, under Lis own personal obst nation. It is therefore omitted m tins publication.

865

CORRESPONDENCE, PROCEEDINGS, he, MAY, 1175.

6C6

already here in command of General Gage, (who have
shown so much bravery as to suffer a single cowardly Ame-
rican or two, to enter into the Army and cut ofl' the ears
ol a soldier that had fallen in battle,) will he sufficient to
frighten all the inhabitants out of America, whereby your
Lordship, and the rest ol' the junto, will have an opportu-
nity of amply serving your faithful friends, in the glorious
cause of despotism and arbitrary power, by granting to them
the lands and estates of these refugees, in doing which,
I should not forget to remind your Lordship to remember
your faithful, humble servant, An Expectant.

COLONEL GEORGE WASHINGTON TO GEORGE WILLIAM FAIR-
FAX, ENGLAND.

Philadelphia, May 31, 1775.

Dear Sir: Before this letter will come to hand, you
must undoubtedly have received an account of the engage-
ment in the Massachusetts-Bay, between the Ministerial
Troops (for we do not, nor can we yet prevail upon our-
selves to call them the King's Troops) and the Provincials
of that Government. But as you may not have heard how
that affair began, I enclose you the several affidavits which
were taken after the action.

General Gage acknowledges that the detachment under
Lieutenant-Colonel Smith was sent out to destroy private
property ; or, in other words, to destroy a magazine, which
self-preservation obliged the inhabitants to establish. And
he also confesses, in effect at least, that his men made a
very precipitate retreat from Concord, notwithstanding the
re-enforcement under Lord Percy; the last of which may
serve to convince Lord Sandwich, and others of the same
sentiment, that the Americans will fight for their liberties
and property, however pusillanimous in his Lordship's eyes
they may appear in other respects.

From the best accounts I have been able to collect of
that affair, indeed from every one, 1 believe the fact, stripped
of all colouring, to be plainly this : that if the retreat had
not been as precipitate as it was, (and God knows it could
not well have been more so,) the Ministerial Troops must
have surrendered or been totally cut off; for they had not
arrived in Charlestoicn, under cover of their ships, half an
hour, before a powerful body of men from Marblehead and
Salem was at their heels, and must, if they bad happened
to be up one hour sooner, inevitably have intercepted their
retreat to Charlestown. Unhappy it is, though, to reflect
that a brother's sword has been sheathed in a brother's
breast, and that the once happy and peaceful plains of
America are either to be drenched with blood, or inhabited
by slaves. Sad alternative ! But can a virtuous man hesi-
tate in his choice ?

I am, with sincere regard and affectionate compliments
to Mrs. Fairfax, dear Sir, yours, &jc.

REPRESF.NTATION OF ROBERT TEMPLE TO THE COMMITTEE

OF SAFETY.

Plymouth, May 31, 1775.

I, Robert Temple, of Ten Hills, near Charlestown, New.'
England, do declare, that 1 have received no injury to my
property, nor have 1 been under any apprehensions of
danger to either my person or property from the Troops
that are under the command of General Ward; but it is a
fact that I have been so threatened, searched for, attacked
by the name of tory, an enemy to this Country, and treated
in such a manner, that not only my own judgment, but that
of my friends, and of almost the whole of the Town where
1 lived, made it necessary or prudent for me to fly from my
home. 1 am confident that this is owing to the wickedness
of a few, very few, who have prejudiced some short-sighted
people against me, who live too far from my abode to be
acquainted with my proper character. 1 am confirmed in
this opinion from the kind protection that my wife and
family have received, and continue to receive from General
Ward, as well as from the sentiments which the Committee
of Safety have been pleased to entertain of me.

R. Temple.

Worcester (Massachusetts) convention.

May 31, 1775.

The Convention met according to adjournment, at the
Court-House in Worcester.

Mr. William Young was elected Chairman pro tempore,
and Jeduthan Baldwin Clerk pro tempore.

Voted, That the Rev. Mr. Chaplain be desired to open
this Convention with prayer.

Voted, To pass over counting the votes for County
Treasurer.

Voted, That Colonel Hezekiah Ward, Mr. Padleford,
and Mr. Joshua Bigelow, be a Committee to draw up a
Remonstrance to the Provincial Congress, that no man be
allowed to have a seat therein who does not vote away his
own money for publick purposes, in common with the other
members, and with his constituents.

Resolved, That a Committee be appointed to take into
consideration the subject of allowing those who are inimical
to the Country, to exercise the right of voting in Town
meetings.

Resolved, That the erecting of a Paper-Mill in this Coun-
ty would be of great publick advantage; and if any person
or persons will undertake the erecting of such Mill, and
the manufacture of Paper, that it be recommended to the
people of the County to encourage the undertaking by
generous contributions and subscriptions.

Fourth Series. — Vol. ii. 55

STEPHEN NYE TO NATHANIEL FREEMAN.

Sandwich, May 31, 1775.

Sir : I would give you a relation of Captain Limey's
proceeding at the islands since your going from here. On
Sunday he received a re-enforcement by a schooner from
Boston, and proceeded from thence to the west end of
the island, where they took off about two hundred sheep,
chiefly from Tucker's Island, which belonged to John
Wing ; from thence they came down to the cove, and
ordered the sheep there to be yarded, which was accord-
ingly done, but it being near night they concluded to leave
them in the yard till morning. They rudely insulted,
abused, and threatened the pe'ople for their backwardness
in assisting them. In the night, word was brought off to
Falmouth of the above proceeding, by Nye, who went im-
mediately back to take care of his family, on which a num-
ber of men, well equipped, immediately went on the island.
Before their arrival at the cove the sheep were turned out
of the yard into the woods. The people from the ship had
been on shore, and on finding the sheep were gone, were
still more enraged, and took all the arms they could find,
six calves and the hogs, and carried them off. When the
people from Falmouth got to the cove, which was before
day, they placed themselves in the bushes, and lay undis-
covered. In the morning the boat came on shore with the
doctor, boatswain, Sic, whom they might have taken had
they not expected the captain ashore soon ; however, the
boat soon went back without going to the house, and botli
vessels immediately weighed anchor and went down to
Holmes's Hole, where they lay last night at anchor. Cap-
tain Basseit is now on the island, with about fifty men, and
will tarry to guard the stock until we have the advice of
the Congress what method is best to take. By the best
account, there is not less than four thousand sheep, and be-
tween two and three hundred horned cattle, and a number
of horses, on the Island of Naushan, and perhaps nigh as
many on the other islands. It is generally judged that
fifty or sixty men, placed on the island at Tarpaulin Cove,
would guard the above stock. It is certainly impracticable
to bring it off; and it must most certainly either be de-
stroyed where it is, or fall into the hands of our enemies ;
which is best, the Congress must judge. Their determina-
tion we should be glad of as soon as possible, for we fear
the men now there will be impatient to come off unless
they are put under pay. Captain Bassett is perhaps the
best officer that can be placed there ; his courage and con-
duct have been heretofore well approved, and he is more-
over well acquainted with the ground on the island, which
must certainly be of great advantage. There went a num-
ber of men from this town, some of whom are, we con-
clude, now on the island. We hope the Congress will let
us have their advice and determination as soon as possible,
and pray that in all their determinations they will be coun-
selled by the Supreme Counsellor ; and are, Sir, your hum-
ble servants, Stephen Nye.

To Colonel Nathaniel Freeman, to be communicated to
Congress.

867

CORRESPONDENCE, PROCEEDINGS, fee, MAY, 1775.

868

SELECTMEN OF SCARBOROUGH TO THE MASSACHUSETTS

MiliKS-.

To the Honourable Representatives in Congress assem-
bled, the 31. si of Mat, I77S:
The Selectmen of the Town of Scarborough, far and in

behalf of said Town, humbly shourth :

That the said Town of Scarborough thought themselves
not able to support the charge of a Member in said Con-
gress at present, said Town having no money to pay any
tax whatever. Our lumber was our chief trade in this
Town ; that being done, we are in great distress for want
of money and provisions. Our crops are very short the last
year, and under present circumstances, little or no supplies
brought from the Southern Colonies, makes it distressing.

But we doubt not of your Honours' great wisdom in
consulting the good of the whole Colony ; and though this
Town has no Representative in Congress, we look upon
ourselves in duty bound to conform to the Resolves of the
honourable Congress, and shall ever be willing to exert
ourselves to the utmost to support good government and
defend our just rights and privileges. We have only to add
our prayers that God may bless and prosper your counsels,
and in the end confirm to us that liberty which our forefa-
thers came into these regions to enjoy.

We beg leave to subscribe ourselves, as in duty bound,
your obedient humble servants,

Reuben Fogg, ^

Peter Libbee, > Selectmen.

Joshua Fabyan, )

SELECTMEN OF EDGARTOWN TO THE MASSACHUSETTS
CONGRESS.

To the Honourable the Members of the Provincial Con-
gress to be held at Watertown, on the 3lst day of
May instant:

Gentlemen: Agreeable to the recommendation of the
late honourable Provincial Congress, we have caused the
Freeholders and other Inhabitants of Edgartoivn, qualified
by law to vote for Representatives in the General Assem-
bly, to meet, in order to elect and depute a Member or
Members to represent them in a Provincial Congress to be
held at Watertown, on the said 31st day of May instant,
but did not elect or depute any Member or Members for
the purpose aforesaid ; because it was thought inexpedient,
on account of the peculiar situation and circumstances of
this small and much exposed Town ; being situated on
an Island, the communication to the main land not only
difficult but dangerous, and frequently surrounded by armed
vessels, by reason of the advantageous situation, and con-
venient harbour suitable for their reception ; by reason
whereof, a man-of-war is for the most part stationed here,
to the great detriment and terrour of the inhabitants, and
apprehensive that in case they publickly manifest any
great degree of forwardness, with regard to the publick's
unhappy affairs of this Province, that some fatal conse-
quence may ensue, being thus exposed. We are fully
convinced that the inhabitants of this place have a most
sincere regard for the Congress, and mean to follow and
pursue their recommendations from time to time cheerfully
with punctuality, consistent with their safety under their
situation. We are therefore led to think that the situation
of this people at this time deserves much pity and some in-
dulgence. All which is humbly submitted in behalf of
said Town of Edgarlovn.

Thomas Cooke,
Ebenezeu Smith

neighbouring Towns along the sea-coast exposed to the
ravages and depredations of the enemy.

And that the remaining part of the inhabitants of this
and the remaining Towns labour under the disagreeable
situation (for want of arms and ammunition) of being inca-
pable to defend themselves, wives, and children, and pro-
perties, should a descent be made by the King's Troops on
this coast, which your Petitioners have the greatest reason
to fear will inevitably be the event.

Your Petitioners, therefore, humbly pray this honour-
able House, in their great wisdom, to take the premises into
serious consideration, and that they would be pleased to
despatch one or more of the Companies now in the service
of this Colony, in order to assist in guarding and defending
this coast, or enable them, by raising more Troops for the
Colony service, in some measure to guard and defend them-
selves. And your Petitioners, as in duty bound, shall ever
pray, &tc, Sic. By order of the Town :

Nahum Marshall, Town Clerk.

Berwick, May 31, 1775.
SELECTMEN OF BEDFORD TO MASSACHUSETTS CONGRESS.

To the Honourable Provincial Congress convened at Wa-
tertown, May 31, 1775:

Gentlemen : We have received the Resolve of the late
Provincial Congress, signifying the necessity of a new
Congress, and recommending to us that we elect one or
more Members to represent us therein, which hath been
laid before our Town, at a general meeting called for that
purpose; but as the Town is small, and hath of late been
visited with sickness and death, as well as the general ca-
lamities of our times, and apprehending it not necessary to
multiply the number of Members, we hope to be excused,
as we did not obtain a major vote of the Town to send one.
Notwithstanding, we do highly approve of, and are well
sensible of the expediency of such a Congress at this im-
portant crisis, and will freely comply with all the wise and
salutary measures thereof relative to us.

So, wishing Divine influence and blessings on your en-
deavours for the peace and safety of this Province, at this
alarming day, we subscribe ourselves yours, &tc.

In the name and by order of the Selectmen of Bedford :
Stephen Davis, Town Clerk.

Selectmen.

PETITION OF INHABITANTS OF BERWICK TO THE MASSA-
CHUSETTS CONGRESS.

To the Honourable the Delegates of the Colony ©/".Mas-
sachusetts-Bay in Provincial Congress at Water-
town convened :

The Petition of the Inhabitants and Freeholders of Ber-
wick, in the County of York, in town-meeting con-
vened, humbly showeth :

That the harbours of York and Kittcry, within the said
County, lie entirely open to our now known enemies, and
the lives and properties of the inhabitants thereof and the

LETTER FROM THE NEW-HAMPSHIRE CONGRESS TO GEN-
ERAL WARD.

Exeter, May 31, 1775.

Sir: In order to commission the Officers belonging to
the New-Hampshire Regiments, the Congress have thought
it absolutely necessary that Colonel Stark should appear
before them ; therefore should take it as a favour, that you
grant him leave for that purpose.

To his Excellency General Ward.

NEW-HAMPSHIRE CONGRESS TO COLONEL STARK.

Exeter, May 31, 1775.

Sir : As some difficulties have arisen in settling the Re-
giment under your command, the Congress, as you will
see by the enclosed vote, have thought proper that you
should immediately, without loss of time, repair to this
Town, to receive their orders, and give a more particular
account of the state of the Troops under your care.

To Colonel John Stark, Esq.

PORTSMOUTH COMMITTEE TO NEW-HAMPSHIRE CONGRESS.

Portsmouth, May 31, 1775.

Sir : We beg leave to inform you that this day eight
pieces of cannon were removed from Jersey Point to this
Town, and that threats are thrown out by the Captain of
the man-of-war, that in case he hears of any preparation of
rafts, or any other means being used to annoy him, he shall
come up with his ship to fire upon the Town. We would
submit it to the wisdom of the Congress, whether these
guns should not be immediately placed in some convenient
battery to prevent this mischief, and whether a Committee
should not be forthwith employed for this purpose. The
guns are six twenty-four and two thirty-two-pounders.

869

CORRESPONDENCE, PROCEEDINGS, &c., JUNE, 1775.

870

And it is absolutely necessary that we be provided with
ammunition and carriages, Sic, to save them, of which we
are entirely destitute.

I am, by order of the Committee, your most humble
servant, II. Wentworth, Chairman.

To Matthew Thornton, Esq., President of the Congress
at Exeter.

MESHECII WEARE TO THE NEW-H AMPSII HIE CONGRESS.

To the Provincial Congress for the Province of New-
Hampshire, convened at Exeter, May 31, 1775:

Gentlemen: As you have now under your considera-
tion the important affair of raising Troops, and appointing
them to proper stations, as well for the safety and defence
of this Province, as for promoting the common cause at this
critical and alarming season, we doubt not but you will
kindly receive intimations from any number of persons of
things which appear to them of great importance; we
therefore beg leave to represent, from frequent alarms we
have had, and from authentick advice from General Ward,
that a number of armed cutters are sailed from Boston,
for what design is unknown. We apprehend it to be ab-
solutely necessary that a proper proportion of the Troops
to be raised in this Province be immediately assigned for
the defence of our sea-coasts ; and permit us to suggest,
that if a proper number of Troops for this purpose were
ordered to be raised in the Towns near the sea-coasts, it
would greatly facilitate the raising the men immediately,
and be a great help for procuring immediate supplies, and
we can conceive will be much more service to the common
cause than sending our men elsewhere. It will also be a
great discouragement to men enlisting to be sent to a dis-
tance, at the same time that they leave their friends and
substance exposed by their absence, when they themselves
might be more advantageously employed for their defence.

We therefore pray that a proper quota of men may be
assigned, and Officers for enlisting them, for this service, as
soon as may be, which we submit to your wisdom and de-
termination. Meshbch Weare.

To the President of the Provincial Congress.

At the request of many persons who represented to me
that the general mind of the people in the Towns near the
sea-coast, is as above represented, and that much uneasi-
ness is in their minds until some provision be made for their
defence, I subscribe, on their behalf, to save the time of
collecting a great number of subscribers. M. W.

WINBORN ADAMS TO THE NEW-HAMPSHIRE COMMITTEE OF

SAFETY.

Gentlemen : By a message from Portsmouth, I am
desired to go there to-morrow with my Company, to assist
in endeavouring to destroy the men-of-war in our harbour.
As my Company were enlisted under your direction, I
think it my duty to wait your order on any movement,
therefore have sent the bearer, and desire your direction
in this affair, which I shall endeavour to obey. And am,
with great respect, your very humble servant,

W inborn Adams.

To the Honourable the Provincial Committee of Safety at
Ereter.

P. S. The plan proposed to execute the aforesaid affair
I have not heard in particular, only that it was thought the
deck might be commanded with small arms from the shore,
while she was set on fire by rafts sent down by water.

CHARLES JOHNSON TO THE NEW-HAMPSHIRE CONGRESS.

To the Provincial Congress convened at Exeter:

Gentlemen : We hereby inform you that we sent a
scouting party towards Canada, which party returned on
Saturday last, by whom we have the following informa-
tion :

They give us to understand that, by the best information
that could be got, there is a body of Indians now lying on
the west side of the Lake Champlain, nearly opposite to
the mouth of Onion River. What the paiticular number

of them is, we cannot certainly determine ; but by the best
information, not less than four or five hundred. And fur-
thermore, that the day before the scouting party left the
mouth of Onion River, they were informed there were ten
canoes of Indians from Canada, who joined said party.
And, moreover, that Governour Carleton, of Quebeck, is
enlisting men in Canada; and also, he has sent to those
tribes of Indiana whom General Montcalm had with him
at the reduction of Port William and Henry. The same
party give account of the taking Ticondcroga and Crown
Point by our parties of the Southern Government.

Now, gentlemen, as to the situation of these parts. How
near the borders of the enemy we are, every one knows who
is acquainted with the boundaries of our own Province.
As to the position of defence, we are in difficult circum-
stances; we are in want of both arms and ammunition.
There is but very little, or none worth mentioning, perhaps
not one pound of powder to twenty men, according to cal-
culation, and not the one-half of our men have arms. Now,
gentlemen, we have all reason to suspect, and really look
upon ourselves in imminent danger of the enemy, and at
this time in no capacity for a defence, for want of arms
and ammunition. And, moreover, we have not a sufficient
number of men to defend these our frontiers, without some
assistance from the lower Towns, which assistance, gentle-
men, we humbly conceive should necessarily be here, in
order to act upon the first alarm.

We, gentlemen, refer the matter to your mature con-
sideration, whether it is not necessary to give us assistance,
that we may be ready in case of invasion. We have, gen-
tlemen, a number of men in these parts of the Country
who have not any real estate, who will certainly leave us,
unless some assistance be given ; and who are ready to
assist, and stand by our cause with their lives, provided en-
couragement be given them.

If, gentlemen, you shall think it necessary to raise forces
to defend this our Province, if you will give orders in what
manner assistance shall be procured, please to inform us
as expeditiously as the nature of things will allow. There
is no doubt of enlisting numbers, without distressing or
much interfering with the lower Towns near the sea-coasts,
provided we have the platform to act upon.

We are, gentlemen, with all due respect, your humble
servants. In behalf: Chas. Johnston,

Clerk to the Committee of the Northern Regiment
in the County of Grafton.

EXTRACT OF A LETTER RECEIVED AT WATERTOWN, DATED
LONDON, JUNE 1, 1775.

The intelligence by Captain Derby, of the defeat of
General Gage's men under Lord Percy, by the Americans,
on the 19th of April last, has given very general pleasure
here, as the newspapers will testify. 'Tis not with cer-
tainty that one can speak of the disposition of people in
England with respect to the contest with America; though
we are clear that the friends of America increase every
day, particularly since the above intelligence.

It is believed the Ministers have not as yet formed any
plans in consequence of the action of April 19th. They
are in total confusion and consternation, and wait for Gen-
eral Gage's despatches by the Sukey, Captain Brotcn.
The talk of the day is, that more troops and ships are to
be sent immediately ; but this, it is thought, cannot be done
without calling the Parliament to raise more money. If it
should be attempted, much disturbance may be expected
in England.

EXTRACT OF A LETTER RECEIVED IN NEW-YORK, DATED
LONDON, JUNE 1, 1775.

It is my indispensable duty to inform my countrymen on
your side the water of whatever resolutions are formed on
this side injurious to your sacred rights, that you may be
timely on your guard to defeat the pernicious attempts of
that implacable and tyrannical Administration. My intelli-
gence is founded on the best information, and therefore full
credence ought to be paid to it.

On the arrival of the news of the defeat and retreat of
the detachments under Lord Percy and Colonel Smith,
this great city was agitated to its centre. The friends to

871

CORRESPONDENCE, PROCEEDINGS, &c, JUNE, 1775.

872

America rejoiced at the noble victory of the Bostonians,
and its enemies were abashed at their courage. The news
(lew rapidly, and soon caught the ear of an unwise and
deluded Kim,'. Administration were alarmed at the unex-
pected success of the Provincials, and were at a loss what
lies to fabricate which would destroy the force of the qual-
ifications which accompanied the intelligence. Runners
were sent to every part of the City, who were authorized
to deny the authenticity of the facts; and so distressed was
Government, that they official!/ requested a suspension of
belief, until despatches were received from General Ciagc.
No advice is received yet from that quarter. In the mean
time frequent ministerial councils were held without any
conclusive determinations until yesterday, when His Ma-
jesty presided at one of them. The King, after having
heard the news read, asked what mode should be pursued
to support the dignity of the Nation, retrieve the honour
of the British arms, and annihilate the American opposi-
tion ? Eord North replied, that there were thirty thousand
Troops in Quebick and Canada, ready to march to Boston
for General Gage's relief; that more men-of-war should be
sent out, and that the Admiral should have positive orders
to seize provision vessels for the due supply of the Navy
and Army. He observed, that from the natural formation
of the entrance into Boston, with the precautions taken by
the General, there was no apprehension of any attack, for
in fact it could not be stormed. Upon this futile opinion,
instructions were immediately despatched to Gage, to order
the regulars from Quebeck, and to march the militia of
Canada, as well as to obtain the necessary supply of pro-
visions by seizing the American vessels at sea, or in the
harbours. To facilitate this accursed plan, the General is
to assure the officers of the King's determination to pro-
mote them; and to stimulate the soldiers to acts of butchery,
their pay is to be increased, to which purpose fifty thousand
Pounds were sent off last night to Boston.

The General has positive orders to destroy the maga-
zines, to spike the cannon, to order the riot act to be read,
and to set up the King's standard immediately. What
infatuation possesses this Nation ! You and I, who know
the strength of America and the consolidated union of its
inhabitants, must laugh at their threats, and despise their
shallow schemes. But whilst they are forming this im-
practicable plan of extracting thirty thousand Troops from
Canada, they dread the arrival of the Packet ; because,
however they would dupe the credulous inhabitants of
England with fallacious contradictions of the facts an-
nounced, they cannot help believing that General Gage
and his Army are even now either cut off, or ignominiously
constrained to retreat into the castle, or on board the men-
of-war.

Such also is the terrour of Administration, that they have
despatched some of the nobility and gentry throughout
England to contradict the Boston news, in order to quiet
the landed gentlemen, cajole the manufacturing cities, and
prevent the dreaded effects on the stocks. But alas ! these
are temporary, ineffectual expedients; for the nex.t Ameri-
can intelligence will arouse the supine landed and manu-
facturing interest, and a vital stab will be given to the
funds. This Nation has passed her meridian splendour.
America, by her virtue and her numbers, will permanently
establish her rights, and be the blessed means of extirpa-
tion of this most flagitious Ministry, and of establishing the
British throne in wisdom and clemency.

This evening some of the principal Common Council-
men meet, to revive and effectually equip the military of
London, which consists of eight thousand men, in order to
co-operate with the Americans in forcing a relinquishment
of the present infernal politicks, and in supporting consti-
tutional liberty throughout the British Dominions.

W. JONES TO THE COMMITTEE OF DONATIONS, BOSTON,
MASSACHUSETTS.

Savannah, Juno 1, 1775.

Gentlemen : Although the inhabitants of Georgia have
unfortunately drawn on themselves the censure of her sis-
ter Colonies, by not adopting those measures which the
wisdom of the General Congress have pointed out for the
preservation of the liberties of America; yet, we (latter
ourselves you will believe there are many among us who

sincerely espouse the great cause contended for by you ;
and who ardently wish that the noble stand you have made
in defence of these rights, to which, as men and British sub-
jects we are entitled, may he crowned with success. The
distresses our brethren must unavoidably experience by
enforcement of the late acts of a cruel and vindictive Min-
istry, deeply affect us. The unhappy division amongst us
has hitherto prevented our contributing to their support :
but have now the pleasure to transmit you, by the Juliana,
Captain Stringham, bound to New-York, a small contri-
bution of sixty-three barrels of rice, and one hundred and
twenty-two Pounds sterling, in specie, under the care of
John Eaton Le Conte. Esq., which wc desire you will
please to appropriate towards the relief of those who have
lately left the Town of Boston. We hope soon to be en-
abled by our friends who reside at a distance from Savan-
nah, to send you a further token of our regard for you, and
those whose misfortunes must increase with the oppressive
measures now pursued by Administration against America.
I have the honour to be, on behalf of the contributors,
gentlemen, your most obedient servant,

W. Jones.
To the gentlemen of the Committee for receiving Dona-
tions for the relief of the distressed inhabitants of Bos-
ton.

INDEPENDENT COMPANY OF ALBEMARLE TO THE WlL-
LIAMSBURGH VOLUNTEERS.

Charlottesville, Virginia, June 1, 1775.

Gentlemen : The first Company of Independents for
the County of Albemarle are highly pleased with the
resolves of the gentlemen volunteers in Williamsburgh ,
and have been truly alarmed at the late arbitrary proceed-
ings carried on in that city. We think that every apos-
tate to the American cause should be properly stigmatized.
We coincide with you in opinion, that the landing any
armed force in this Colony, will not only be a dangerous
attack, but a sufficient cause to justify us, with our coun-
trymen, in any opposition; and we are determined, at all
events, to act on that occasion as men of spirit ought to do
in defence of their natural rights and country's cause.

With great respect, we remain, gentlemen, your humble

servants,

Charles Lewis, Captain.

George Gilmer, } T . .

, »r ' > Lieutenants.

John Marks,

TO RICHARD HENRY LEE.

Easton, Juno 1, 1775.

Honoured Sir: An ancient, and accounted a long-
headed man, in these parts, has dropped some hints de-
vising a scheme of reconciliation between the Mother
Country and the Colonies, which I think worthy of con-
sideration ; and I am persuaded your zeal for a reconcilia-
tion is such, that you will lend an ear to healing proposi-
tions, let them come from what quarter they may ; other-
wise, you would be unworthy of the eminence of character
you possess for republican candour of sentiment.

He observed, " suppose the Congress were to ofter as
much to the Crown as all the duties amount to by a proper
estimate ;" meaning such duties as we agree they have a
right to lay, as regulations of trade, and that exempt from
all impositions by the Crown, called running, which might
easily be assessed on each Province, by having recourse to
their books of entry, and making, at the same time, an
allowance for what are run, which is thought to be as much
again ; and besides this, to offer a number of forces, well
disciplined, in case of requisition, as was the case in the
last two wars ; so many hundred or thousand from each
Province, according to its importance, and ship, pay, and
victual and clothe the same, or some, or all, as Congress
judges best ; and the same to continue for a certain season,
or during an expedition, as was the case in the attack in
the last war, on Carthagena and Havana. At least, the
most strenuous endeavours ought to be made, in some way or
other, to effect an accommodation, considering what lament-
able confusion and distress must attend the quarrel, if it
continues any length of time ; and the idea of aiming at
independence at present, affords the most frightful of all

873

CORRESPONDENCE, PROCEEDINGS, fee, JUNE, 1775.

671

prospects, whilst the Mother Country lias such power on
i.'ie oc. an. Your unknown friend and humble servant,

Philopatri \.

P. S. I had like to have forgotten the venerable sage
would have insisted that all the obnoxious Acts of Parlia-
ment should be repealed at the same time that the above
offers should be made ; the one to be made the inseparable
condition of repealing the other ; and in the space of ten,
fifteen, or twenty years, an additional quantity of troops
and money might be offered, in case of pressing requisi-
tions from home, according as the Colonies flourish, and
trade increases ; but still the mode of raising, as well as
the quantity, to be wholly left in the power of the Colonial
Assemblies. And to confess the truth, the within letter,
on account of your reputed eloquence in the Congress, I
direct to you, as it is the more likely you will thereby have
more influence on that august assembly, though you are
under no obligation, but may still pursue your opinions.

prived ; your memorialist having likewise carted the great-
est part of the baggage and provisions over the carrying
place, the whole amount of which, to this day, is near
seventeen Pounds. And as the gentlemen appointed here
have this day intimated to your memorialist that his teams
are not to be any more employed, they having brought
teams over the lake for said service ; your memorialist,
therefore, trusting in the known justice and humanity of
the gentlemen in New-York, who scorn to let any individ-
ual suffer, which must inevitably be the case of your me-
morialist, unless your goodness prevents it, by confirming
the agreement made by Colonel Arnold : your memo-
rialist therefore humbly hopes, as lie has done his utmost
endeavour for the good of the common cause, and is dis-
abled at present from providing for his family, you will take
the same into consideration. And your memorialist will
ever pray. J. Sparding.

NEW- YORK CONGRESS TO THEIR DELEGATES IN THE CON-
TINENTAL CONGRESS.
[Road in Congress June 3, 1775]
In Provincial Congross at Now- York, Juno 1, 1775.

Gentlemen : We this morning received despatches from
Albany, Waterloivn, and Hartford, which contains, as
you will observe, very important intelligence. We think
it our duty, through you, to lay it before the Continental
Congress ; and for that purpose have prepared copies of
the several papers which were received as aforesaid. We
shall make no comments on them, being convinced that
your own good understanding and knowledge of the state
of these Colonies will render any such attempt useless.

Our business proceeds with great heaviness, for want of
the sinews of war, which we have not, neither have we
any powder. Money we cannot have, until we receive the
directions of your body, as you will easily believe. Be-
sides this, we would be extremely happy to know that your
body had taken into their serious consideration the several
circumstances of the associated Colonies ; and that they,
in their wisdom, had assigned the several quotas of men
and money to each. This information will guide our de-
liberations to a proper object, for the want of which our
present attention is distracted, by the uncertainty of what
shall be determined with respect to this Colony.

We have the honour to be, gentlemen, your most obe-
dient and humble servants.

By order of the Congress :

P. V. B. Livingston, President.

To the New-York Delegates at the Continental Congress,
Philadelphia.

MEMORIAL OF JOHN SPARGING TO NEW-YORK CONGRESS.

To the Honourable the President and Members of the
Provincial Congress now assembled at New-York :

The Memorial of J ohn Sparding, living at Ticonderoga
Landing, the north end of Lake George, June 1, 1775,
humbly sheiveth :

That your memorialist has, for upwards of six years
past, been at a great expense in providing boats and car-
riages for the ease and convenience of persons travelling
this way with their baggage and effects, over the lake and
carrying place, at an easy rate ; likewise providing batteaus
on Lake Champlain, for the conveniency of gentlemen and
oi hers travelling to Canada. The unhappy differences now
subsisting between the Colonies and the Mother Country,
have put a stop to any business your memorialist was former-
ly engaged in. Your memorialist has, ever since the tenth
day of May, (the day on which the fort at Ticonderoga was
taken,) assisted with his boats, men, &tc, in transporting the
troops, with their baggage and provisions, over Lake
George and the carrying place, upon no other security
than a verbal agreement with Colonel Arnold, for twenty
shillings, currency, per day, for a perryaugre capable of
crossing the lake with seventy men, besides a quantity of
provision, and a batteau for carrying expresses; and when
there was not a sufficient loading for the perryaugre, to
have the privilege of conveying surh private property as
might offer, of which your memorialist is at present de-

EXTRACT OF A LETTER RECEIVED IN NEW-YORK, FROM A
GENTLEMAN IN THE PROVINCIAL CAMT, DATED JUNE 1.
1775.

When our people were engaged in taking the stock.
&c., from Noddle and Hog Islands, the King's Troops
made an attack upon them. On Hog Island the combat
began about five o'clock in the afternoon, and continued
almost incessantly till midnight. The attack was made
with cannon, swivels, and small arms, from an armed
schooner, sloop, and eight or ten barges, upon our people,
who had small arms only, but were very advantageously
posted by Colonel Putnam, who got to them just in season
to station and command them properly. He placed them
in a ditch, up to their waists in water, and covered by the
bank to their necks. The srhooner, sloop, and boats, full
of men, came within twelve or fifteen rods of them, and
gave our people a fine opportunity to place their shot well.
About midnight the fire ceased a little, and our people re-
treated to the main land, where they were soon after joined
by Captain Foster, with two field-pieces, which were plant-
ed on the way of Winnesimit ferry. At daylight the com-
bat was renewed ; as the schooner passed the ferryway,
she was briskly attacked by our people with the field-pieces
and small arms, which soon clearing her deck, she drifted
on shore, where our people set fire to her, and she blew
up, notwithstanding the utmost endeavours of the people
in the boats, &c, to tow her off and save her from destruc-
tion. In this they exposed themselves much to our fire,
and suffered greatly. When they found the schooner was
lost, they with difficulty rowed off the sloop, much dis-
abled, and retired to their den ; and thus ended the combat
at about seven o'clock in the morning. In the afternoon
(Sunday) our people got out of the wreck twelve four-
pounders, six swivels, and every thing else that was valua-
ble, without molestation. They afterwards removed or
destrojed from both the islands all the stock, &,c, viz:
about five or six hundred sheep, thirty horses, about as
many cattle, a large quantity of hay, and burned all the
barns and houses.

All this was done in sight, and as we may say under the
noses of the whole fleet and army at Boston, without mo-
lestation. The killed of the enemy, (viz: General Gage's
crew of enemies to the English Constitution,) they them-
selves allow to be more than one hundred, besides wound-
ed ; others, who have good opportunity to know, say their
killed and wounded exceed three hundred ; and 1 believe
they have suffered as much as in their precipitate flight
from Lexington, on the memorable 19th of April. Our
killed, none ; wounded, three. Heaven apparently and
most evidently fights for us, covers our heads in the day
of battle, and shields our people from the assaults of our
common enemies. What thanks can speak our gratitude.

These interpositions, and our determined resolutions,
may perhaps make our haughty enemies glad to quit their
unjust possessions, for a cooler and more calm retreat in
some distant quarter of the globe, and leave us peaceably
to enjoy those rights and liberties which God in our nature
has given us as our inalienable right, and which they are
most, unjustly endeavouring to wrest from us by violence.

The men-of-war's cruisers are out, with orders to take
all vessels with provisions, or any kind of West-India
goods. Two men-of-war lying in Portsmouth River, have

875

CORRESPONDENCE, PROCEEDINGS, &c, JUNK, 1775.

876

taken two corn sloops bound in there to supply the n>
ties of tlie place, and were about sending llicni to Boston.
Governour Unit worth went jon board to solicit their dis-
charge, and represented the necessity of the Town, but
without effect. This proceeding has so exasperated the
people, that not a single Tory is left in the Province, and
some of the most bigoted have quitted the cause, declared
for the people, and join them in their must spirited mea-
sures, &c.

An important expedition was on foot, but as we have
received no news of its success, we fear it has miscarried.

DECLARATION OF ALEXANDER WALKER.

Salem, Juno 1, 1775.
Whereas I. the subscriber, did some time since sign an
Address to Governour Hutchinson, which has given just
cause of resentment to this Town and Country ; I do now
declare, that at the same time of signing said Address, I
did suppose it might serve the Colonies, but am convinced
of my error, and am sorry for the offence 1 have given ;
and stand ready as any other, as far as in me lies, to sup-
port the rights and liberties of this Country.

Alexander Walker.

In Committee of Safety, June 3, 1775.

The foregoing Declaration being presented and read,
voted unanimously that the same is satisfactory.

Attest: R. Derby, Jun., Chairman.

TO THE AMERICANS.

Salom, Massachusetts, June 1, 1775.

We are now called by the providence of God to fight
for those precious liberties which were handed down to us
by our heroick and venerable ancestors. Our present cir-
cumstances are unhappy, but our prospect is great and
glorious. God hath in a signal manner favoured our right-
eous cause, covered our heads in the day of battle, miracu-
lously given us the victory over our enemies, and shewn us
his salvation. So very remarkably hath Heaven appeared
on our side, that I hope our murderous enemies will no
longer dare to oppose what God approves.

We greatly lament that we are driven by tyranny to
shed human blood. It would give us infinitely greater
pleasure to make our enemies free and happy, than to tri-
umph in victory. As a testimony of this disposition, we
have given freedom to the soldiers who were well inclined,
that we have taken in the late engagement. And it is our
ardent wish and prayer to Almighty God, that these Col-
onies may be enabled to give freedom and happiness to our
oppressed land and Nation, without injury to any person,
and the once happy union between Britons and Americans
be restored, and both forever live together as brethren.

An American.

which, from the first settlement of this Country, has so re-
markably appeared for the preservation of its civil and re-
ligious rights. Sam'j. Languor, Moderator.
To the Honourable Joseph Warren, Esq., President of the

Provincial Congress of the Colony of the Massachusctls-

Bnij, &ic.

At the Convention of the Ministers of the Massachusetts-
Bay, June 1, 1775 :

The Convention, taking into consideration the method
of furnishing the Army with Chaplains, agreeably to the
offer they have made to the honourable Congress, think it
most expedient that a sufficient number of persons should
be chosen out of their members by the Officers of the Army,
to officiate statedly, rather than by quick rotation in that
character; and the Convention depend that the parochial
duties of those Ministers who shall serve in the Army, will
be performed by their brethren in the vicinity.

A true copy. Test : Amos Adams, Scribe.

SELECTMEN OF LUNENBURGH TO DOCTOR JOHN TAYLOR.

Lunenburgh, June 1, 1775.

Sir: We have received the resolve of the Provincial
Congress, that there be draughted out of the town stock
of powder from Lunenburgh, two half barrels for the use
of the Army. Now, Sir, we here represent the circum-
stances, the greater part of which you have a knowledge
of. You may remember that the Town granted twenty-
five Pounds to supply the town stock of ammunition, but
by reason of the scarcity of powder we have never obtained
it ; and at the time of the alarm at Concord, we were obliged
to open the town stock to furnish those that marched on
that occasion, (which was upwards of one hundred men,)
and if we should take out the two half barrels, we should
not have above thirty pounds of powder left in the town
stock. Now, Sir, we desire to know if the Congress,
under these circumstances, will excuse us from taking out
the two half barrels, and if not, we are ready to comply
with the resolve. Please to write to us as soon as may
be ; in the mean time we remain yours, &c.

By order of the Selectmen, George Kimball,

Town Clerk.
To Dr. John Taylor, Member of Congress.

N. B. If you know of any powder to be sold, please to
inform us.

REV. SAMUEL LANGDON TO MASSACHUSETTS CONGRESS.

June 1, 1775.

Sir: We, the Pastors of the Congregational Churches
of the Colony of Massachusetts-Bay, in our present annual
Convention, gratefully beg leave to express the sense we
have of the regard shown by the honourable Provincial
Congress to us, and the encouragement they have been
pleased to afford to our assembling as a body this day.
Deeply impressed with sympathy for the distresses of our
much injured and oppressed Country, we are not a little
relieved in beholding the Representatives of this people,
chosen by their free and unbiased suffrages, now met to
concert measures for their relief and defence, in whose
wisdom and integrity, under the smiles of Divine Provi-
dence, we cannot but express our entire confidence. As
it has been found necessary to raise an Army for our safety.
and our brave countrymen have so willingly offered them-
selves to this hazardous service, we are not insensible of the
vast burden that their necessary maintenance must devolve
upon the people. We therefore cannot forbear, upon this
occasion, to offer our service to the publick, and to signify
our readiness, with the consent of our several con
tions, to officiate, by rotation, as Chaplains to the Army.

We devoutly commend the Congress, and our brethren
in arms, to the guidance and protection of that Providence,

PETITION OF WILLIAM TALMAN AND OTHERS TO THE MAS-
SACHUSETTS CONGRESS.

Dartmouth, June 1, 1775.

To (he Honourable Provincial Congress now sitting at

Watertown:
The Petition of us the subscribers humbly sheivelh :

That your petitioners have, at great expense, fitted out
some vessels for whaling voyages, and one or two with lumber
for the West Indies, some of which are now ready for the
sea, and being advised thereto by the Committee of Corres-
pondence of this Town, and not being restricted therefrom by
the Continental or Provincial Congress, the advice or direc-
tions of which we determine to abide by in this affair; not-
withstanding which some people manifest an uneasiness that
we should send our vessels to sea, and will not be satisfied
unless we have the advice of the honourable the Provincial
Congress, now sitting, thereon, which will quiet the minds
of the people, and give them and us satisfaction relative to
said matter. Therefore, jour petitioners pray your advice
and direction thereon; and as in duty bound shall ever pray.

William Talinan,- Isaac Howland, Lemuel Williams,

C. Church, John Alden, Joseph RumbH, Jr.,

John Williams, Joseph Russ 11, Harnahas Russell,

Leonard Jarvis, David Shepherd, Setb Rnss'll.

John Howl mil, William Claghorn, Patrick Maxfield,

Zulock Mixfii-ld, Abraham Smith, Daniel Smith.
Uriah Kay, Jr.,

MASSACHUSETTS CONGRESS TO NEW-HAMPSHIRE CONGRESS.

Watertown, June 1, 1775.
Gentlemen: We send you enclosed a copy of a letter
from Colonel Arnold, commander of the Troops at Ticon-
dcroga and Crown Point, together with a copy of a letter

877

CORRESPONDENCE, PROCEEDINGS, &c, JUNE, 1775.

878

from the Speaker of the House of Representatives for the
Colony of Connecticut, by which you will be acquainted
with the present situation of those fortresses, and the mea-
sures necessary to be taken for serving and defending so
valuable acquisitions. You will doubtless agree with us in
sentiment, that it is a matter of the greatest importance that
those places remain in our possession, in order to secure
our frontiers from the depredations of our enemies, if they
should attempt to attack us from that quarter, of which
there appears to be great danger. It was the agreement
of this Colony that four hundred men, and one hundred
Pofinds of money, should be raised for the reduction of the
place, and it is our determination to contribute our full pro-
portion towards securing the acquisition.

By the letter from the Speaker of the House of Repre-
sentatives for Connecticut, yon will find that that Colony
have voted to send immediately to their assistance four
companies and five hundred weight of powder, and we
suppose that the Troops are upon their march there.

And we most earnestly request that you would continue
your endeavours, likewise, for the speedy and effectual se-
curity of the aforementioned places, which, considering the
importance of the affair, and the ready disposition which
vou have discovered for the defence of the common cause,
leaves us no room to doubt of your compliance therewith.

Joseph Warren, f resident.
To the Provincial Congress of New-Hampshire.

MASSACHUSETTS CONGRESS TO ASSEMBLY OF CONNECTICUT.

Watertown, June 1, 1775.

Gentlemen : We gratefully acknowledge the receipt
of your favour of the 27lh ultimo. We fully concur in
opinion with you, that maintaining a post at Ticonderoga
or Crown Point, is of the utmost importance ; therefore
take particular satisfaction that you have, on this subject,
so early and repeatedly expressed your minds to the Con-
tinental Congress.

By private intelligence, of the 29th ultimo, sent to
Captain Joseph Trumbull, we are informed that the Pro-
vincial Congress of New- York do not understand the
resolve of the Continental Congress, concerning said for-
tresses, to extend so far as wholly to disseminate them ;
but so far only as to supply any fortifications that may be
built at the south end of Lake George. Which resolve,
in this sense of it, they are with despatch executing ; there-
fore, in our present distressing situation, we have post-
poned sending further assistance to Captain Arnold, espe-
cially since New-York have not requested it.

To the Hon. William Williams, Speaker of the House of
Assembly of the Colony of Connecticut.

GOVERNOUR OF CONNECTICUT TO MASSACHUSETTS CON-
GRESS.

Hartford, June 1, 1775.

Gentlemen : Your letter of the twenty-ninth of May,
per Sheppard, is received, and observe your agitation occa-
sioned by the resolution of the General Congress touch-
ing Ticonderoga and Crown Point. It was looked on in
the same light here, and hath been repeatedly mentioned
to the Delegates from Connecticut, that removing from
Ticonderoga to the south end of Lake George would
expose great part of the frontiers to invasion and distress,
and a fort at the latter scarcely tenable. The expressions
of the resolution are not clear. The Provincial Con-
gress at New-York take them to mean no more than the
removing the supernumerary cannon and stores from those
two fortresses to the south end of Lake George, but not
to learve or abandon those two important posts. Mine of the
29th of May, per Mr. Brown, informs what hath been re-
solved here, which is fully approved by the Provincial Con-
gress at New- York. They express their concern to keep and
maintain " the important posts of Ticonderoga and Crown
Point." We have received intelligence from Albany of
the readiness of that City and County to afford their ut-
most assistance for securing those important posts for the
common defence of our rights and liberties. Our General
Assembly was closed last evening. I shall be attentive to
your intelligence, and will communicate to you all that

appears important that shall come first to my knowledge.
Please to direct lor me at Lebanon. 1 congratulate you
on the union and increasing harmony of these North-Ame-
rican Colonies, and the wonderful concurrence and coinci-
dence of counsels among them. May our hearts be united
in humble thankfulness therefor. I am, with great truth
and regard, gentlemen, your most obedient humble ser-
vant, Jonathan Trumbull.
To the Provincial Congress of Massachusetts-Bay.

JOSEPH KELLY TO NEW-HAMPSHIRE CONGRESS.

To the Honourable Committee of Safety and Gentlemen
of the Congress, now sitting at Exeter, in and for
the Province of New-Hampshire:

The Petition of Joseph Kelly, of Nottingham-West,
in said Province, humbly sheweth :

That your petitioner has, by orders from the Committee
of Safety at Cambridge, raised a number of men for the
preservation of the liberties of America, and has been at
some considerable expense in providing arms and fitting
them for said service ; some of which men are now at Med-
ford, some at Cambridge, and the others wait for orders when
and where to march. That your petitioner verily thought
he was serving God and his Country in so doing; notwith-
standing, Major Hubbert told your petitioner we were not
looked upon as friends by this Congress, for no other rea-
son, that your petitioner knows of, than only because the
soldiers at Cambridge refused to be mustered by said Hub-
bert, as they said they well knew him to be an enemy to
the common cause ; which your petitioner had no other
hand in than to persuade the soldiers to be easy and not
to treat the said Hubbert ill, and to tell him the minds of
the people, and prevent any disorder in the camp. Your
petitioner prays the men may be taken into the service of
this Province, and put under some officers who they shall
agree cheerfully to go under, or that they may not be re-
strained of their liberty of joining with any other Prov-
ince, when they are willing to serve their Country to the
utmost of their power in the common cause ; which is the
prayer of, gentlemen, your hearty and sincere well-wisher,

June 1, 1775.

Joseph Kelly.

Philadelphia, June 2, 1775.

The spirit of opposition to the arbitrary and tyrannical
acts of the Ministry and Parliament of Britain, hath dif-
fused itself so universally throughout this Province, that
the people, even to its most extended frontiers, are inde-
fatigable in training themselves to military discipline. The
aged, as well as the young, daily march out under the ban-
ners of liberty, and discover a determined resolution to
maintain her cause even until death. In the Town of
Reading, in Berks County, Pennsylvania, there had been
some time past three Companies formed, and very forward
in their exercise ; since, however, we are well informed a
fourth Company have associated under the name of the
Old Man's Company. It consists of about eighty Ger-
mans, of the age of forty and upwards. Many of them
have been in the military service in Germany. The per-
son who, at their first assembling, led them to the field, is
ninety-seven years of age ; has been forty years in the
regular service, and in seventeen pitched battles : and the
drummer is eighty-four. In lieu of a cockade, they wear
in their hats a black crape, as expressive of their sorrow
for the mournful events which have occasioned them, at
their late time of life, to lake arms against our brethren,
in order to preserve that liberty which they left their na-
tive Country to enjoy. A correspondent, who lately saw
them perform their exercise for several hours, says, they
discovered such a sober firmness in their countenances, and
such vigour and address in handling their arms and per-
forming their evolutions, as filled him with the highest re-
spect and esteem for this truly venerable band.

COMMITTEE OF TKVON COUNTY, NEW-YORK.

June 2, 1775.

Palatine District. — Christopher P. Yates, John Frey,
Andrew Fink, Andrew Rceber, Peter Waggoner, Dan-
iel McDougall, Jacob Kloek, George Eckcr, Jr., Har-

879

CORRESPONDENCE, PROCEEDINGS, &c, JUNE, 1775.

880

mantu Van Shjck, Christopher fl . Fox, Anthony Van
i ten.
Canajoh vimi: District. — Nicholas Herkimer, Fhenexer
. WUHatn Seeber, John Moon, Samuel Campbell,
Samuel Clyde, Thomas Henry, John Pickard.

KlNl.M.VMl AM) German Fl, ATI'S DISTRICTS. — Edward

Wall, William Petry, John Perry, Augustine Hess,
Frederick Orendorf, George Wentz, Michael fttig,
Frederick Fox, Beorgt Herkimer, Duncan McDou-
gaO, Frederick Hehntr, John Frink.
Mohawk District. — John Morlett, John B/iren, Abra-
ham Fan Home, Adam Fonda, Frederick Fisher,
.Sampson Simmons, William Schuyler, I'olkert I'eeder,
James McMaster, Daniel Lane.—A2.

Christopher P. Yates was chosen Chairman.

EXTRACT OF A LETTER FROM THE COMMITTEE OF TRYON
COUNTY, NEW-YORK, TO COL. GUY JOHNSON.

According to the example of the Counties in this and
the neighbouring Colonies, the people of the District we
represent have met in a peaceable manner to consider of
the present dispute with the Mother Country and the Co-
lonies, signed a General Association, and appointed us a
Committee to meet in order to consult the common safety
of our rights and liberties, which are infringed in a most
enormous manner, by enforcing oppressive and unconstitu-
tional Acts of the British Parliament, by an armed force
in the Massachusetts-Bay.

Was it any longer a doubt that we are oppressed by the
Mother Country, and that it is the avowed design of the
Ministers to enslave us, we might, perhaps, be induced to
use argument to point out in what particulars we conceive
that it is the birthright of English subjects to be exempted
from all taxes, except those which are laid on them by
their Representatives, and think we have a right, not only
by the laws and Constitution of England, to meet for the
purpose we have done. Which meeting we probably
would have postponed awhile, had there been the least
kind of probability that the Petition of the General As-
sembly would have been noticed more than the united pe-
tition of almost the whole Continent of America, by their
Delegates in Congress ; which, so far from being anywise
complied with, was treated with superlative contempt by
the Ministry, and fresh oppressions were, and are, daily
heaped upon us. Upon which principles, principles which
are undeniable, we have been appointed to consult methods
to contribute what little lies in our power to save our de-
voted Country from ruin and devastation ; which, with the
assistance of Divine Providence, it is our fixed and deter-
mined resolution to do; and, if called upon, we shall be
foremost in sharing the toil and danger of the field. We
consider New-England suffering in the common cause, and
commisserate their distressed situation ; and we should be
wanting in our duty to our Country and to ourselves, if
we were any longer backward in announcing our determi-
nation to the world.

We know that some of the members of this Committee
have been charged with compelling people to come into
the measures which we have adopted, and with drinking
treasonable toasts. But as we are convinced that these
reports are false and malicious, spread by our enemies with
the sole intent to lessen us in the esteem of the world, and
as we are conscious of being guilty of no crime, and of
having barely done our duty; we are entirely unconcerned
as to any thing that is said of us, or can be done with us.
We should, however, be careless of our character, did we
not wish to detect the despicable wretch who could be so
base as to charge us with things which we never have en-
tertained the most disiant thoughts of. We are not igno-
rant of the very great importance of your office, as Super-
intendent of the Indians, and, therefore, it is no more our
duty than inclination to protect you in the discharge of
the duty of your proper province, and we meet you with
pleasure, in behalf of ourselves and our constituents, to
thank you for meeting the Indians in the upper parts of
the County, which may be the means of easing the people
of the remainder of their fears on this account, and prevent
the Indians committing irregularities on their way down to

Guy-Park. And we beg of you to use your endeavours
with the Indians to dissuade them from interfering in the
dispute with the Mother Country and the Colonies. We
cannot think that, as you and your family possess very
large estates in this County, you are unfavourable to Ame-
riam freedom, although you may differ with us in the
mode of obtaining a redress of grievances. Permit US
further to observe, that we cannot pass over in silence the
interruption which the people of the Mohawk District met
in their meeting; which, we are informed, was conducted
in a peaceable manner; and the inhuman treatment of a
man whose only crime was being faithful to his employers,
and refusing to give an account of the receipt of certain
papers 10 persons who had not the least colour of right to
demand any thing of that kind. We assure you, that we
are much concerned about it, as two important rights of
English subjects are thereby infringed, to wit : a right to
meet, and to obtain all the intelligence in their power.

TO MR. JOHN HOI.T.

New.York, June 2, 1775.
Sir: We have seen with that satisfaction which we be-
lieve every British Constitutionist must feel at beholding
your name on the Address which you printed against un-
lawful Standing Armies. You have done right ; for the
abetters of despotism cannot legally prosecute, though they
may censure and dislike you for your honest boldness in
conveying, through the channel of your press, the instruc-
tion which was much wanted concerning deserters.

That in the Colonies no soldier can be lawfully detained
against his will, or punished in any case by military officers,
under colour of any act of the British Parliament only;
that now all soldiers are under the sole protection of the
civil power of such of the British Colonies where they
may be respectively stationed ; and that whether the sol-
diers choose to remain in or desert from the King's service,
it is highly criminal and absurd in us not to protect them
in their civil rights against the oppression of their tyranni-
cal masters, or the usurpations of unlawful courts-martial.
All these, Sir, are self-evident truths. And yet our citi-
zens were alarmed on Saturday last, by a party of soldiers
who sallied out of our barracks, seized a deserter in the
street, and forcibly dragged him to their hold, where, it is
said, the officer who received him swore the deserter should
be "shot or whipped to death." A quiet application (too
quiet, doubtless) was made to one of the officers ; for, the
deserter is still detained, and may be very soon transported
elsewhere. Not long ago a deputation of four men from
a Connecticut detachment, which did not stay here, was
very differently received at the same barracks by an officer
of the same corps. A deserter was peremptorily demand-
ed there, and the officer immediately delivered him to the
deputation. Shall we behave with less spirit than our
neighbours? Must we be reduced to call on them for
assistance?

The audacious attack on the person of the deserter, vio-
lently taken by the soldiery on Saturday last, was certain-
ly intended to keep as long as possible in their state of
delusion, the soldiery, who begin to doubt the local force
of the abominable edict, under pretence of which many
of their comrades have been most iniquitously " shot or
whipped to death !" And shall destruction be the lot of
men who would avoid shedding the blood of their brethren,
our own blood, and fly to us for protection against that
unnatural command ? God forbid !

As military men cannot now exercise over the soldiers
stationed in this Colony any lawful authority independent
of our own established courts of judicature, we think it
very necessary to inform you, that many of our fellow-
citizens, ancient sons of liberty, as well as ourselves, ex-
pect that some orthodox casuist amongst your readers will
speedily determine, and without evasion, whether or not
to apprehend deserters in defiance of our laws, be out of
the line of that peaceable behaviour which the Continen-
tal Congress lately fixed as the criterion of our future
operations respecting the Regulars who are permitted to
remain in our barracks ; and if yea, what must be done
for the safety of those who have been apprehended, and
for our own? A Club of Congressionists.

881

CORRESPONDENCE, PROCEEDINGS, &ic, JUNE, 1775.

882

NO STANDING ARMY IN THE BRITISH COLONIES; OR, AN
ADDRESS TO THE INHABITANTS OF THE COLONY OF
NEW-YORK AGAINST UNLAWFUL STANDING ARMIES.

" Resolved, nomine contradiccnte, That the keeping a
Standing Army in these Colonies, in times of peace, with-
out the consent of the Legislature of the Colony in which
such Army is kept, is against law." — Proclamation of the
Continental Congress.

Brethren, Friends, and Countrymen :

The sanguinary schemes of the present Administration
have been sealed with the approbation of the late ministe-
rial Parliament. Every vessel that came to this or the
neighbouring ports, since the proceedings of our late Con-
gress were published in London, brought us fresh intelli-
gence of the hostile measures resolved on against us.
More regiments are to be sent over, some of which will
be stationed in this metropolis and in New-Jersey, to sup-
port the King's friends, to intimidate and divide us, to be
a check on the Southern Colonies, and, if judged practica-
ble, to prevent their relieving our suffering brethren of the
Massachusetts-Bay.

These particulars, and many more, have, doubtless, come
to the knowledge of that body, commonly styled our Re-
presentatives ; and yet, amongst the objects of real com-
plaint, resolved as such by that Assembly, in their late
catalogue of grievances, we do not read any of the ruin-
ous consequences of an act of Parliament, which was
solely machinated to extort the submission of all the Bri-
tish Colonies to every parliamentary, or, what is synony-
mous, to every ministerial mandate, though ever so ruinous.
But it may be predicted that, sooner or later, this act will
have the intended effect, should its not appearing to press
upon us in a direct manner render us so inattentive, or so
very selfish as to suffer its continuing to be enforced with
impunity.

This introduction must point out to you, that the act, or
rather edict here alluded to, is that which was made for ex-
tending to all the British Colonies on this Continent the
acts of Parliament relating to mutiny and desertion in Great
Britain, as likewise to maintain the discipline of His Ma-
jesty's Army, so styled, instead of its true descriptive name,
the British, or National Army — an impropriety of the
greatest importance to a free people, justly jealous of their
honour, and conscious of their real dignity ! But, to the
manifest danger of the national liberty, this is little attend-
ed to by military men ; too many of whom, from a field-
marshal to a drummer, mistake the true sense of that
phraseology, which, when at first used, was meant but as a
complaint, and appeared, as it really was, perfectly harm-
less, before our Kings kept a Standing Army. Erroneous
notions on this head are now big with ruin, it being not
unfrequent to find in the military order a commissioned, as
well as a non-commissioned varlet, ignorant enough to
believe that he eats the King's bread, and is bound, for
that very reason, implicitly to obey any command he re-
ceives from his superiours, who eat the same bread ! As
men of this stamp never inquire with whose bread the King
himself is fed, it is judged very necessary, at this critical
juncture, to awaken the attention and sensibility of many
men of liberal principles, who serve in the British Army
and Navy, some of whom inadvertently mention the King,
and even address him, as their master.

The enemies to our Constitution, well knowing the fatal
effects of the illusion which this old prejudice never fails
to produce in the minds of the vulgar, surreptitiously pro-
vided themselves with the Extension Edict, before (though
not long before) the late Parliament issued their inquisito-
rial sentences against the people of the Massachusetts-Bay .
That edict demonstrates to you by what means the Min-
istry have determined to conduct their conspiracy against
our liberty. Surely, this is a grievance of the first magni-
tude.

The American newspapers have informed you since
that time, that Courts-Martial have dared to decree various
punishments, which have been inflicted on soldiers in Ame-
rica ; but, though such Courts-Martial acted under colour
of that same illegal edict, wc do not learn that any of their
members, or the deluded victims that became their accom-
plices by executing the felonious sentences, have been in-
dicted for their respective crimes ! Nay, have not such

unlawful Courts-Martial been suffered in our metropolis to
exercise the same illegal authority ?

About the beginning of the last war, an Administration,
which had formed no design against our liberty, acted on
very different principles, to prevent the mutiny and deser-
tion of the British forces in North America. The Min-
ister sent circular directions to most of the American Gov-
ernours, for procuring temporary acts, which, as they mani-
festly tended to the welfare and safety of the whole Bri-
tish Empire, were cheerfully granted. The Legislatures
to which such applications were made, extended to their
respective territories the acts of Parliament for punishing
mutiny and desertion, &tc. Those acts afterwards re-
ceived the Royal assent; but the legal force of every such
temporary act has long since expired. They were granted
with the same caution that acts of a similar nature pass in
Great Britain, where the Lords and Commons know, that
the national liberty might be easily destroyed should they
declare acts of such importance, perpetual. The Legisla-
ture can give no lawful authority to such acts of perpetual
duration, any more than they can lawfully surrender the
liberties of the people. These have, in reserve, an ina-
lienable right to ratify, or annual every act of their dele-
gates to legislative assemblies.

The fair proceedings of the Administration above men-
tioned, are of publick notoriety. They not only prove, in
the most authentick manner, that Administration then be-
lieved the British Parliament had no right to bind us in
all cases whatsoever, but that the King and his Ministers
were solicitous to demonstrate the uprightness of their in-
tentions— that they would not violate any of our constitu-
tional rights, by attempting to bind us in any case what-
soever, without our legal consent.

The anti-British junto, being sensible the legal expira-
tion of those temporary acts of the Colonies was an invin-
cible obstacle to their projects of depredation, so artfully
conducted themselves in, and out of Parliament, that their
dark designs were not suspected. For this reason, the
patriotick minority, who did not think that more regi-
ments were intended to be sent over to America, made
little or no opposition to the Extension Edict. This shows
you, my brethren, how cautious you ought to be of your
friends themselves. They may be sincere, but they do not
feel !

Let us see now what our late venerable Congress did
for us — they who felt with us the innumerable evils that
are inseparable from a Standing Army not dependant on
ourselves. Their ninth resolve expressly declares, that
to keep such Army is unlawful, and consequently pro-
claims the nullity of the Extension Edict, in the compre-
hensive words which are prefixed to this address, although
the consequence which results from the truth contained in
them, being founded on the self-evident principles of univer-
sal jurisprudence, that respectable authority might have
been omitted here, without the least danger. This conse-
quence is acknowledged by the uniform proceedings of
every civilized Country relative to distributive justice, as
well as in the judgment of every person who is not in a
state of insanity. Whatever is done any where against
law, cannot be supported there, by law. It is a mere nul-
lity.

We have often been astonished at the superlative effron-
tery of ministerial hirelings ; and yet, it is improbable any
caviller of that tribe will be so irreverent and scurrilous as
to urge, that the ninth resolve of the Congress does not
affect the extension edict. However, should you meet with
that wretch, read to him, and intrench yourselves within
the tenth resolve in their Bill of Rights, from which the
following quotation is inserted here, to support the ninth
resolve, and several other parts of this address, to wit :

" All and each of which," that is to say, the rights
mentioned in the nine preceding resolves, " the aforesaid
Deputies, in behalf of themselves and their constituents,
do claim, demand, and insist on, as their indubitable rights
and liberties, which cannot be legally taken from them,
altered, or abridged by any power whatever, without their
own consent, by their Representatives, in their several
Provincial Legislatures.

" In the course of our inquiry we find many infringe-
ments and violations of the foregoing rights, which, from
an ardent desire that harmony and a mutual intercourse of

Fourth Series. — Vol. ii.

56

883

CORRESPONDENCE, PROCEEDINGS, fee, JUNE, 1775.

884

affection and interest may be restored, we pass over for the
present, and proceed to state such acts and measures as
have been adopted since the last war, which demonstrate a
system formed to enslave America."

Now, can a fair reasoner assert that, notwithstanding the
declared illegality of the infringements alluded to in the
preceding quotation, the declaration implies, that the Con-
gress admitted the legal operation of any such act, till it
should be repealed ? That it is to be so understood,
though the whole of the proceedings shows that it is
feared there will he a civil war, unless they be repealed ?
Though the repeal be solicited, not to annul such acts,
(they being all illegal, and every one of them, whether
enumerated or not, being consequently null and void,) but
" to restore harmony," that is, to prevent that civil war
which is justly feared, unless the violences which have
been already committed to enforce those unlawful, illegal,
and null acts, be discontinued ?

If those men who, solemnly appealing to God and the
equity of mankind for the justice of our cause, declared
to you and the other members of the British Nation that
" to keep a Standing Army in these Colonies without our
consent, is against law," had justified the least suspicion of
their admitting that it was not against law to punish, with-
out our consent, mutiny and desertion in such unlawful
Standing Army : Believe me, my dear, devoted coun-
trymen, the most iniquitous Administration that can be
conceived, the present Administration itself, never would
wish to obstruct their proceedings.

The Extension Act is unlawful, illegal, and null, being
made to support the discipline of an unlawful Standing
Army : and should a Standing Army be made lawful in any
Colony, (which God avert,) the Extension Act would, ne-
vertheless, remain unlawful, illegal, and null in that Colo-
ny, until the Legislature should have given it their local
lawfulness, legality, and therefore existence. But you
have no reason to fear this ; for self-preservation will effect-
ually prevent the most abandoned traitor from making a
motion of that tendency in any American legislative as-
sembly, against the safety of a people protected by the
British Constitution.

Regardless of every principle of justice and policy, the
British Parliament are trying against our liberty experi-
ments which, if hazarded against the people under their
immediate legislative authority, would infallibly involve
Great Britain in a civil war, and might produce another
revolution there. The King is vested with the supreme
command of all the forces of the Nation, wherever they
may be stationed ; but he has no legal coercive authority
any where over the soldiers or sailors, otherwise than by
local laws, made from time to time, to that effect. And,
as the safety of every constitutional right depends on the
limitation of that authority, the other branches of the Le-
gislature grant him but temporary acts, for maintaining the
discipline of the army and navy, by coercive laws, and for
restraining or enlarging the power of Courts-Martial in both
these departments, within the limits of that Legislature by
which they are granted.

The limited duration of those laws being as short as it
appears, from occasional circumstances, to be consistent
with the publick safety, the treasonable designs of Admin-
istration may be counteracted with more facility than if
such laws were perpetual. After the legal expiration of
those acts, the King's lawful authority over the national
forces expiring of course, can he punish, or detain any
body in that service, since Courts-Martial are abolished by
law, as thoy now are in the British Colonies ? And if the
King would attempt to retain them in his own service, how
could he accomplish it before he had usurped an arbitrary
power over the purses of the people? Could he satisfy ca-
pricious demands, which would increase in proportion to
the knowledge that every man in his army and navy would
have of the embarrassments of their master ? No ! for
those salutary limitations are solely intended to preserve
inviolate our rights of opening or shutting up our purses,
as we think fit. They have till now prevented such usur-
pations, which, to exercise with safety, is the ultimate end
of every other usurpation that ever was exercised by any
tyrant in the world. It was but to attain that end the
selfish Parliament of Great Britain have so flagitiously
exceeded the limits of lawful power.

If you admit, as lawful, the extension illegally decreed
by a ministerial Parliament, and machinated but as a pro-
visional edict to insure the success of met d on,
relatively to the proscription of the Bostonians, and other
proscriptions in petto ; if you only tolerate its illegal ope-
ration any longer, the King will not experience those diffi-
culties which would thwart his arbitrary projects in Great
Britain, were his usurpations to begin there. His Pailia-
ment might pay us the compliment of renewing the extru-
sion and other temporary acts of their own sole legislation,
for the sole purpose of raising a revenue to lighten their
own burdens, which luxury and corruption have already
prodigiously increased, and which your lameness will in-
crease to a degree which it is now beyond the power of cal-
culators to ascertain. But you may rest assured that, in a
very short time, Administration will sport with your liberties,
and, soon after, with those of the whole British Empire.
The opprobrious and degrading denomination of Province,
which now is but an innocent and unmeant misapplication
of a foreign word adopted in our language, will significantly
describe the real state of every British Colony, and, indeed,
of every Shire in Great Britain and Ireland. Never forget
that about two years ago a crowned miscreant compelled
the states of Sweden, the Parliament of that Country, to
release him from his coronation oath ! His success may
tempt others to commit the same sacrilege.

Our enemies are now terrified at the superiority of
strength which the justice of our cause gives us over them
in the present contest. They will be amazed at the effect
of their flimsy artifices, if, by tolerating the extension
edict, we stupidly subject ourselves to a set of men upon
whom we can have no check ; who, having exempted
themselves and their tools from the power of our tribunals,
will drag before theirs, such of us who may indicate the
least inclination to a better change. Then, our disguised
friends, and our open foes, united in the British Parlia-
ment, will, with iron hands and unfeeling hearts, " bind us
in all cases whatsoever." We shall be in the condition of
the Swedes, French, Spaniards, and most other Nations,
where, now and then, an honest man may regret the loss of
his natural rights, but where an attempt to recover them
would be next to madness.

It will be a melancholy reflection to us, perhaps for
many years, that no strictures have yet been tendered
respecting the destructive tendency of the extension edict.
It is expected that the tried patriotism of our ablest writers
will inspire them to hold it up to publick view in its most
minute circumstances. The silence now complained of
dismays our friends, and secretly elates our enemies on the
other side of the water ; it may, in some measure, excul-
pate the Magistrates and Grand-Juries, who have not
yet brought to justice any of the persons who are liable to
be prosecuted in their respective districts for crimes com-
mitted there, under the unlawful sanction of Parliamentary
edicts.

But, every such edict, or illegal act of Parliament, being
void and null in law, respecting its operation amongst us,
it clearly follows, that all the robberies and burglaries com-
mitted by Custom-House Officers and others, under colour
of several edicts of a similar nullity ; that all the murders
and violences perpetrated under the directions of illegal
Courts-Martial ; that the oppression of the soldiers, who
now are legally under the sole protection of the civil power
of the British Colonies on this Continent, where they are
unlawfully stationed by a despotick Administration ; and
that the enormities which Custom-House Officers, and il-
legal Courts of Admiralty or Vice-Admiralty, or which the
deluded soldiery in the ministerial service, have already
committed, or may hereafter commit, shall be wholly charge-
able to the pusillanimous, or treasonable connivance of
the Colonists themselves, if such crimes remain unnoticed
by those whose sworn, and therefore whose indispensable
duty it is, to bring them to light and trial.

0 my countrymen, will you cease to incur the con-
tempt of the world ? Will you no longer continue the jest
of your enemies? Listen no more to trembling delin-
quents, who artfully whisper to you, that your Courts of
Justice would quash such indictments. For God's sake,
do justice to the understanding and integrity of your
Judges. Consider, and you will clearly see, that were
they as corrupt as we know them to be otherwise, they

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886

would not dare, at this juncture, to betray their iniquitous
partiality. Nay, the most profligate member of our As-
sembly, though he could depend on the concurrence of a
majority of the same corrupt principles, would not dare
now to abuse representation so far as to move for a bill
tending to screen, directly or indirectly, under the illusory
declaration of your assent, manifested by them only, any of
the obnoxious acts which the late Congress reprobated, as
demonstratory of " a system formed to enslave America."

Timid well-wishers to their Country may object, that
our zeal will be frustrated by an unprincipled Governour;
that, not daring with a high hand to impede the prosecu-
tion of criminals, protected by himself, he will stretch pre-
rogative even to the pardon of irremissible crimes, none of
which are more so than those by which our sacred Consti-
tution is endangered. But, may not the well known fate
of a Porteus check traitors, by convincing thetn that they
cannot always shelter themselves under the wings of pre-
rogative? And should this prove ineffectual, our holy re-
ligion teaches us, that no worldly consideration ought to
deter the just from doing his duty. Our Committees, and,
what is much safer, Colonial Conventions, vested with dis-
cretionary powers, will, at last, baffle the arts of ministe-
rial tools, and work our political salvation.

If there be amongst us a conscientious lawyer, he cer-
tainly will point out to the officers of the unlawful Standing
Army, stationed in the British Colonies, the imminent
danger they run by detaining soldiers in North America,
under the illegal extension edict. As to pettifoggers, we
know they are seduced by the prospect of a plentiful har-
vest, and that self-interest, not justice, determines them to
act, whatever side they undertake to defend. If the
Minister do not value these enough to retain them in his
service for supporting the unlawful acts, they will of course
rejoice at the almost innumerable actions of a civil nature
which may be grounded on the local nullity of Parliamen-
tary edicts, and commenced by soldiers for unjust deten-
tion, loss of time, and unpaid labour; or for various tres-
passes, unjustifiable before tribunals which follow the
British system of law.

All injuries sustained by any person in this Colony, in
consequence of the same unlawful sanction, may be re-
dressed, and the same offences will be prevented for the
future, if we have but sense and firmness enough to apply
as we should, and where we should. It is never too late
to do our duty. Let us trust the event to the omnipotent
Ruler of the universe, and He will reward our persever-
ance.

If, through ignorance or inattention, any of you ever
gave a verdict in contradiction to the fundamentals of jus-
tice ; if he admitted the force of any act of Parliament to
which your own Colonial laws have given no such force,
that man must be very unhappy whenever he reflects on
the injustice he has occasioned ; but he is guiltless — he
deserves compassion. It is far different with jurymen, who
knew the local nullity of acts of Parliament, and by their
verdicts authorized their illegal operation. Those jurymen,
and the judges who designedly suffered it — who have sup-
pressed the warnings and instructions which they ought to
have given, and strengthened with their eloquence — have
been bribed. Whether hope, fear, avarice, or any other
worldly motive influences such judges and jurymen — they
have been bribed. They stand guilty before God and
man, of wilful and corrupt perjury.

Do not believe, my dear countrymen, that, infatuated as
the junto may be, they hope that the Continental Associa-
tion can be dissolved by the external, the seeming defection
of any Colony, were it even ours, which is nearly central,
and the most liable to such suspicions. A Governour may
bribe the majority of an Assembly, who fancy that they
represent a people not virtuous enough to exercise their
rights of choosing their representatives and elective officers
by ballot. Illegal warrants may be issued, and remain
unquasbed for a considerable time, to bewilder the bulk of
the people with the innumerable doubts which, it is evi-
dent, will arise from the untried illegality of those proceed-
ings ; to intimidate and oppress, till the bench determine
the question; and, in the mean while, to deter the injured
from prosecuting such daring conspirators.

He may bribe a few trading justices, and seduce other
sons of corruption and power, who hold, or expect to hold

magistracy or other offices during pleasure, and are as much
afraid of Colonial Conventions as the Minister is of Con-
tinental Congresses. But he cannot bribe the body of
the people, in whom, originally and finally, lies the sover-
eign power, represented for their benefit only by one
single person.

All the Colonies, nay, the internal force of any single
Colony, can punish a few venal officers for abusing the au-
thority with which they are entrusted by their superiours,
who are themselves subordinate to another superiour, like-
wise entrusted by, and (as glorious experience shows) ac-
countable, as well as every one of his dependants, to the
people at large, whether they meet in one single spot, or
in their respective Districts. The patriotick spirit of the
American Britons cannot be subdued. They will exer-
cise their constitutional right to hold Conventions for their
safety ; a right which cannot be questioned, without open-
ly denying the legal title of the Hanoverian line of out-
Kings to the British Crown. Therefore, my dear coun-
trymen, do not basely relinquish that sacred right, when
you ought to exercise it. You know that, should you be
oppressed by a wicked knot of traitors, you will be deliver-
ed by your happier neighbours as soon as their assistance
is required.

The arch fiend to our Constitution knows all this. The
Colonies which delegated members to the late Congress,
have already appalled him, that insolent, cruel, and cow-
ardly wretch, who, a year ago, declared by his wicked
trumpet, that he would not relent " till he saw you pros-
trate at his feet !" Your Congress made him stoop to
proposals, which he well knows you will reject with dis-
dain. He means but to divide and betray you, whom he
despairs to subjugate by force. However, he will send
more Troops, more indeed than he thinks it is prudent
now to divulge. But it is not solely in that re-enforcement
he confides. Will you believe it, my dear devoted coun-
trymen, it is in his opinion of your folly. I shall reveal to
you his grand secret — the only resource left him to extort
your compliance.

Now that the vices of the Nation have reduced to a state
of impotence the small portion of virtue which still re-
mains in the British Parliament, he hopes that a supersti-
tious reverence for that body, degenerate as it is, will con-
tinue to betray you into absurdities, and an inconsistent
passiveness. He still hopes that your inattention to the
extension edict will enable him at last to defeat your united
forces. Your supineness justifies him in believing, and per-
suading his associates, that you will always tolerate the
operation of that destructive edict, which is sufficient in
itself to put all the others in force.

Can we, without feeling the severest stings of self-
reproach, reflect on the many crimes which, since the ex-
tension act was quietly enforced, our inattention has em-
boldened Custom-House Officers and other sons of tyranny
to commit ? Oh ! had criminal prosecutions been instituted
in that Country where the first felony or the first degrada-
tion of human nature was committed, in defiance of our
laws, and under the usurped authority of Courts-Martial,
or rather, immediately after their first unwarrantable sen-
tence was known ! had soldiers been duly protected
against their tyrannical masters, robberies and murders
might have been prevented ; our brethren at Boston could
not be dragooned ; we might long ago have defied the com-
binations of the parricidal junto, whose aim is to destroy our
Constitution ! We should no longer fear their dethroning
our King, and fixing his crown on the head of a race of
tyrants whom a patriotick Parliament justly proscribed
about ninety years ago, as irreconcilable foes to the natu-
ral rights of the British Nation ! With truth and security
we might tell the arch fiend, " What do you think of venal
Parliaments now ?"

Since no sophistry can delude an incorrupted American
jury ; since the joint efforts of the ministerial hirelings can-
not, without our connivance, hold up before the eyes of
the soldiers the veil which hides from them the knowledge
of their civil rights, let us instruct those deluded victims ;
let us openly protect them against their oppressors. If we
adopt this pacifick mode of resistance, which no political
casuist who has subscribed to the Revolution creed can
disapprove, the Minister may send over as many Regiments
as he pleases ; the intended instruments of our ruin will

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CORRESPONDENCE, PROCEEDINGS, &c, JUNE, 1775.

888

but add to our strength and prosperity. As soon as they
know it is against law to detain them in the Army, the
ministerial army, there will be no obstacle to their deser-
tion. Then, but not before, sycophants, paid to calumni-
ate and betray the British Colonies, will in vain attempt to
persuade the instructed and less credulous soldiers that we
shall deliver them up to facilitate our reconciliation with the
British Parliament, who will not hear of any proposal of
accommodation, unless this, their sine qua non condition, be
first complied with. If we adopt this generous measure, we
shall enjoy the purest pleasure that can affect freemen —
that of rescuing our fellow-creatures, our brethren, from
disgraceful bondage. And if experience can teach us
wisdom, we shall so cautiously grant temporary acts for
preventing mutiny and desertion, should ever the safety of
the British Empire make it again necessary to grant such
acts, that the abominable project of reducing us into a state
of slavery, by the means of a Standing Army, cannot enter
the head of any future Minister.

The virtuous part of the British Officers themselves
impatiently wait for this manifestation of our prudence.
They will secretly rejoice, as Britons, at the mutiny and
desertion of whole battalions, whatever they may do in
their publick character to the contrary. And General
Gage, whom his weakness and incapacity recommended
to a perfidious Administration, who emulously extol his
abilities, though they would not have employed him if a
sensible man, of an established military reputation, had
accepted the dishonourable command : that General, whom
they have decorated but as a bound victim, may be brought
to justice, and answer for the many crimes which his thirst
of power inspired him to perpetrate, or patronize, as the
most acceptable offerings which could propitiate to him his
tutelar Deity at St. James's.

It is not yet too late to pursue this plan of philanthropy
and self-defence ; but we must exert ourselves with activi-
ty and constancy. If we lose time, the soldiers, not know-
ing the local nullity of an edict made for the purpose of
detaining them against law, on an unnatural service which
they abhor, will be afraid of being treacherously delivered
up, in case they desert. They will not cease to be awed
by illegal Courts-Martial, though if they were properly
instructed they would not fear, but despise, the authority
usurped by those Courts ; and the soldiers who have been
injured by them, or by any military officer, would obtain
legal redress, should they make proper application.

If we suffer them to be misled by a sacrilegious interpre-
tation of their military oath, from which they are released
as soon as the Army is kept against law ; if we scandalous-
ly forsake them, in vain shall we cry out to them in the
strain of the Roman Patriot,

Whither, oh ! whither do you madly run ?
'Tis not that Britons, with avenging flame,
Might burn the rival of the British name ;
But that the Stuarts should their vows enjoy,
And George, with impious hand, himself destroy !

When they are ordered to butcher us, and destroy our
habitations, then they will not listen to us ; self-preserva-
tion, and even revenge, must impel them to imbrue their
hands in our blood, and our destruction or slavery, attend-
ed with the curses of posterity, may be the fatal conse-
quences of our infatuation, in neglecting to seize an oppor-
tunity to vanquish our enemies without shedding the blood
of our friends. An Anti-Despot.

ROBERT AND JOHN MURRAY TO THE NEW-YORK CONGRESS.

New.York, June 2, 1775.
Sir : Herewith you have a memorial to the Congress
now assembled, together with a copy of the papers laid be-
fore the Continental Congress. We should take it as a
favour, if you would lay the whole before the gentlemen as
soon as possible. Your compliance will much oblige your
humble servants, Robert & John Murray.

P. V. B, Livingston, Esq., President of the Congress.

Memorial of Robert Murray and John Murray to the
Honourable the Provincial Congress o/*New-York.

Gentlemen: The annexed papers are copies of what
we laid before the honourable Continental Congress, in

consideration of which they came to the following Resolu-
tion :

"In Congraw, Way :27. 1775.

"Upon motion, the Memorial of Robert Murray and
John Murray, desiring to be restored to their former situa-
tion, with respect to their commercial privileges, was taken
into consideration, and after some time spent thereon,

" Rixii/viiI. That where any person hath been, or shall
be, adjudged 1>\ a Committee to have violated the Conti-
nental Association, and such offender shall satisfy the Con-
vention of the Colony where the offence was or shall be
committed, or the Committee of the Parish of St. John's,
in the Colony of Georgia, if the offence be committed
there, of bis contrition for his offence, and sincere resolu-
tion to conform to the Association for the future, the said
Convention or Committee of the Parish of St. Johns afore-
said, may settle the terms upon which he may be restored
to the favour and forgiveness of the publick, and that the
terms be published.

" A true copy from the Minutes :

" Charles Thomson, Secretary."

From the foregoing it appears, that to procure restora-
tion to publick favour, we have no tribunal but, yours to
appeal to. The annexed papers exhibit a full state of our
case, which we humbly submit to your consideration, not
doubting but that in your wisdom you will afford us such
relief as will be consistent with humanity and the publick
good. Robert Murray,

John Murray.
June 2, 1775.

MEMORIAL OF ROBERT AND JOHN MURRAY TO THE CONTI-
NENTAL CONGRESS.

To the Honourable the Continental Congress now sitting

at Philadelphia:
The Memorial of Robert Murray and John Murray,

of the City of New- York, Merchants, humbly shew-

eth:

That the memorialists being owners of the ship Dutchess
of Gordon, and expecting she would be in London by the
time their orders could arrive there, did, on the 7th of Sep-
tember last, by a letter to Philip Sansom, direct him to
put certain articles on board the said ship, on account of
the memorialists, together with what freight he could pro-
cure for her, and to despatch her immediately for New-
York, as may appear by an extract of the letter hereunto
annexed, marked No. 1.

That the memorialists, so far from entertaining any de-
sign to counteract the measures recommended by the late
Continental Congress, did, as soon as they were informed
thereof, countermand the above-mentioned orders, except
as to such goods as might, in consequence thereof, have
actually become the property of the memorialists and their
partner, the said Philip Sansom ; for the truth of which
they beg leave to refer to the annexed extract of a letter
to the said Philip Sansom, dated the 5th of October, 1774,
marked No. 2.

That in pursuance of the above directions, there were
shipped on board the Beulah, (a vessel belonging to the
memorialists) at London, sundry goods, on account of the
memorialists and their partner, with which goods the said
vessel sailed for New-York on the 5th or 6th day of De-
cember last, and arrived there the 16th or 17th of February
following.

That on the arrival of the said vessel and cargo, which
happened after the time limited by the Congress for the
continuance of our importations, the memorialists having
no intention to land their goods contrary to the terms of the
Association, would have cheerfully submitted to what they
conceived to be the spirit and design thereof, and were
therefore willing, and did offer to unload their cargo and
ship it in another bottom, under the inspection of some
of the Committee here, and to send it to some place not
within the restriction imposed by the Congress ; and the
memorialists beg leave to refer to the annexed copy of their
letter, sent to the Committee upon this subject, marked
No. 3, containing more at large their proposal, and the
reasons on which it was founded.

The memorialists beg leave further to observe, that they
did verily believe their construction of this part of the

S8'J

CORRESPONDENCE, PROCEEDINGS, fcc;, JUNE, 1775.

890

Association was consistent with the spirit and design there-
of; and had the Committee here been of that opinion, such
a mode of compliance would have greatly alleviated the
loss of the memorialists, as they might, in that case, have
shipped their cargo away in a small vessel, instead of send-
ing it in a vessel not above one-third full.

That, reduced, as they thought, to an unnecessary hard-
ship, and chagrined with the disappointment, the memo-
rialists rashly formed the design of secretly landing some
small part of the cargo, and were so imprudent as to carry
the same into execution. That before a discovery was
made thereof, and at a time when the memorialists had
great reason to suppose the place where the goods were
deposited would not be discovered, to wit: the 13th of
March last, they made a declaration of the fact, and offered
to give the Committee a full account of the particulars, on
oath, which they accordingly did on the 15th of the same
month, when all the goods landed had been delivered up
to the Committee of Elizabcthtown, and the disposition
thereof submitted entirely to the directions of the Com-
mittees at New- York ; all which particulars will more
fully appear from Holt's New-York Journal, of the 23d
March, hereunto also annexed, to which the memorialists
refer.

The memorialists having proceeded thus far, and mani-
fested their intention to satisfy the publick in any reason-
able way that could be expected, as well as to express their
contrition for the hasty and imprudent measure they had
taken ; and to prevent their future commercial intercourse
with others from becoming the means of other infractions
of the Association, the memorialists did shut up their
store, discontinue all trade, shut up their own goods under
the seals of certain persons here, transfer their commis-
sion business to others, and give up their wharf as free for
the use of the navigation of this City, until they should be
relieved in the premises by the interposition of the Con-
gress. As vouchers of these facts, the memorialists refer
to the annexed printed publications, marked No. 5 and
No. 6.

The foregoing is a true state of the facts relative to this
unhappy affair in which the memorialists are involved ; and
as their commercial concerns were large and extensive, at
least amounting to £50,000 per annum, this total derelic-
tion of business has become an immense loss to them ; and
if unrelieved, cannot but terminate in their ruin.

That Mr. Philip Sansom, their partner, who has been
distinguished for his warm attachment to American liberty,
though not concerned in the indiscreet step taken by the
memorialists, is yet involved in all its fatal consequences.
That besides the weight of distress and sufferings to which
the memorialists themselves have been exposed, not only
from their great losses, but the resentment of an incensed
people, their present situation must be attended with a train
of evils to the innocent who are connected with them in
business ; their creditors must suffer ; those who depended
on their large commercial business for bread, are turned out
of employ, and the publick deprived of the advantages
which necessarily flow from a continuance of their trade
and commerce.

That the memorialists presume the American Congress,
from the great and important ends of the Convention, will
move only on publick principles, and therefore think it im-
proper to address their tender and benevolent feelings, not
doubting but every generous and humane sentiment to-
wards the memorialists, which is consistent with the pub-
lick good, will have their due influence in a determination
of this subject, in which the memorialists are so deeply
interested.

Permit them, then, to hope that this august and respect-
able body, from a consideration of the conduct of the me-
morialists in this affair; from their utmost endeavours to
atone, in some measure, for their indiscretion ; from the
great and complicated distress they have already sustained ;
from the circumstance that the innocent are deeply involved
in their sufferings ; and that a continuation of their suffer-
ings can only perpetuate their calamities, without advanc-
ing the important ends of publick safety, will, in their wis-
dom, reinstate the memorialists in their former situation,
with respect to their commercial privileges.

Robt. Murray,
John Murray.

No. 1.
EXTRACT OF A LETTER TO PHILIP SANSOM, DATED NEW-
YORK, SEPTEMBER 7, 1774.

As we expect the Dutchess will be with you by the time
this reaches thy hands, we have thought it most prudent to
order out some bulky articles, such as we apprehend will
pay a good freight, in consequence of which, we have now
enclosed thee a list of such articles as we would have thee
send out in her immediately, with what freight offers.

No. 2.

EXTRACT OF A LETTER TO PHILIP SANSOM, DATED OCTO-
BER 5, 1774.

The foregoing is a copy of our last, per the Thetis, to
the contents of which refer you. She sailed the 2d cur-
rent, since which we find it to be the sense of the Congress,
that all orders that are gone may be suspended or counter-
manded ; in consequence of which, we desire that all our
orders sent may be countermanded, except such as are al-
ready become our property. Those we would have you
ship immediately, by the first vessel for this port, giving the
preference to one of our own, if there.

No. 3.

February 20, 1775.

Gentlemen : We being sole owners of the Ship Beu-
lak, from London, do propose, (with your approbation,)
that the ship be regularly entered at the Custom-House ;
in which case we pledge to you our word and honour, that
no part of the goods shall be landed in this Province; but
the same shall be forthwith reshipped and sent off in some
other bottom. If it shall be thought more satisfactory, we
consent that any number of your body be on board the
ship while here, to see that the above engagement is strictly
observed.

This proposition, we think, must appear reasonable, as
being not inconsistent with the resolution of the Congress ;
and therefore we are led to hope it will meet not only with
your approbation, but that of the inhabitants of this City
in general. The Congress having been silent as to what
bottom the goods shall be returned in, probably meant to
expose the owners of the ship and cargo to as little incon-
venience as possible, by leaving that matter to their discre-
tion, which, from the terms in which their resolve is ex-
pressed, seems evidently to be the case. Their words are :
" If any goods, wares, or merchandises, shall be imported
after the first day of February, the same ought forthwith
to be sent back again without breaking any of the pack-
ages thereof." This, we conceive, manifestly declares that
the goods, (which are the object of this resolve,) are to be
imported after the first day of February ; but as there can-
not be a legal importation without an entry at the Custom-
House, it follows that such entry is presupposed and im-
plied in their resolution ; and the more especially, as they
direct that the packages shall be sent back unopened ; for,
as opening the packages without an entry, would make the
ship liable to a seizure, the Congress could hardly have
thought such rash conduct in the owners to be probable ;
and, therefore, from this prohibitory clause, they must have
considered the goods as in a situation in which the pack-
ages might be lawfully opened, which plainly includes the
idea of a previous entry at the Custom-House. By per-
mitting, therefore, such entry under the guards proposed,
we think that not only the letter, but the spirit and inten-
tion of the resolution of the Congress will be fully com-
plied with.

It has, and probably may again be insisted on against
this construction of the resolve, that the first article of the
Association prohibits the importation of goods from Great
Britain, &ic, after the first day of December ; and there-
fore, that it must be absurd to suppose the Congress could
intend an importation after the first day of February, in the
sense we contend for, as it would imply a contradiction.
Whatever force there may appear to be in this argument at
first view, it is entirely taken off by the explanatory clause
in the tenth article, which declares, that in case any mer-
chant, trader, or other persons, shall import any goods after
the first day of December, and before the first day of Febru-
ary, the same ought forthwith, at the election of the owner,
to be either reshipped or delivered up. to the Committee

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S92

of the County, he. That an importation, in the proper
and legal sense of the word, is here meant, cannot admit
of a doubt, since neither of the alternatives imposed on the
owner, of resbfpping or delivering the goods to the Com-
mittee, can possibly take place without an actual unloading
of the cargo, for which purpose an entry was absolutely
necessary, and therefore must have been intended by the
t longress.

As to the objection that proper evidences cannot be
given to the neighbouring Colonies, that the goods are sent
back unless they go in the same bottom, we think it must
be effectually removed, by having the matter transacted
under the inspection of some of the Committee, in the way
we propose. Besides, we cannot help observing, that the
grand object of the Congress seems to have been the send-
ing the goods back ; and as it must be immaterial in what
vessel they are carried, this may well account for their
leaving that circumstance to the discretion of the owner.
And as we are disposed to comply not only with the ex-
press words of the Congress, but likewise with the very
spirit thereof, we shall therefore think ourselves ill used, if
we are obliged to carry the goods back in the same bottom,
which will be laying a very heavy burthen on, that we and
many more believe was not intended by the Congress.

We have no objection to your publishing this letter, as
we are free the publick should have an opportunity of
judging thereof. We may further inform you, that the
proprietors of the goods are quite free that they be reship-
ped in the manner here proposed.

Murray, Sansom, &i Co.,
Wm. M. Bussell.

JOHN LAMB TO NEW-YORK CONGRESS.

New- York, June 2, 1775.

Gentlemen : As I embarked very early in the cause of
liberty, and have ever defended the rights of America by
every means in my power, so I am still actuated, both by
principle and inclination, to exert myself to the utmost of
my abilities, in preserving the freedom of my country ; and
as it is highly probable that troops will soon be raised in
this Colony, I take the liberty to tender you my best ser-
vices. Should you think me worthy your confidence, I
flatter myself that my future conduct will evince it has not
been placed on an improper object. At the same time, I
must beg leave to observe, that I should incline to serve in
the Artillery department, having made that branch of mili-
tary science more particularly my study.

1 am, with the greatest respect, gentlemen, your most
humble servant, John Lamb.

To the Honourable Provincial Congress for the Colony of

New- York.

ETHAN ALLEN TO NEW-YORK CONGRESS.

Crown Point, Juno 2, 1775.

Respectable Gentlemen : Before this time you have
undoubtedly received intelligence not only of the taking
the fortified places on Lake Champlain, but also the armed
sloop and boats therein, and the taking possession of a
schooner, (the property of Major Skene?) which we have
armed and manned, and of the conversion of them, with a
large train of artillery, to the defence of the liberty and
constitutional rights of America. You have likewise been
undoubtedly informed that the expedition was undertaken
at the special encouragement and request of a number of
respectable gentlemen in the Colony of Connecticut. The
pork forwarded to subsist the Army by your Honours' di-
rection, evinces your approbation of the procedure; and as
it was a private expedition, and common fame reports that
there are a number of overgrown tories in the Province,
your Honours will the readier excuse me in not first taking
your advice in the matter, lest the enterprises might have
been prevented by their treachery. It is here reported
that some of them have been lately savingly converted,
and that others have lost their influence. If, in those achieve-
ments, there be any thing honorary, the subjects of your
Government, viz: the New-Hampshire settlers, are justly
entitled to a large share, as they had a great majority of
numbers of the soldiery, as well as the command in making
those acquisitions ; and as your Honours' justify and ap-

prove the same, I desire and expect your Honours already
have, or soon will lay before the Grand Continental Con-
gress, the great disadvantage it must inevitably be to the
Colonies to evacuate Lake Champlain. and give up to the
enemies of our Country those invaluable acquisitions, the
key of either Canada or of our Country , according as which
party holds the same in possession and makes a proper im-
provement of it. The key is ours as yet, and provided the
Colonies would suddenly push an Army of two.' or three
thousand men into Canada, they might make a conquest
of all that would oppose them in the extensive Province
of Qucbcck, except a re-enforcement from England should
prevent it. Such a diversion would weaken General Cage
or insure us of Canada. I wish to God America would,
at this critical juncture, exert herself agreeable to the in-
dignity offered her by a tyrannical Ministry. She might
rise on eagles' wings, and mount up to glory, freedom, and
immortal honour, if she did but know and exert her strength.
Fame is now hovering over her head. A vast^ continent
must now sink to slavery, poverty, horrour, and bondage,
or rise to unconquerable freedom, immense wealth, inex-
pressible felicity, and immortal fame.

I will lay my life on it, that with fifteen hundred men and
a proper train of artillery, I will take Montreal. Provided
I could thus be furnished, and if an Army could com-
mand the field, it would be no insuperable difficulty to take
Qucbeck. This object should be pursued, though it should
take ten thousand men to accomplish the end proposed ;
for England cannot spare but a certain number of her
Troops. Nay, she has but a small number that are disci-
plined, and it is as long as it is broad ; the more that are
sent to Quebcck, the less they can send to Boston, or any
other part of the continent. And there will be this un-
speakable advantage in directing the war into Canada, that,
instead of turning the Canadians and Indians against us,
(as is wrongly suggested by many,) it would unavoidably
attach and connect them to our interest. Our friends in
Canada can never help us till we first help them, except in
a passive or inactive manner. There are now about seven
hundred regular Troops in Canada. I have lately had
sundry conferences with the Indians ; they are very friendly.
Captain Abraham Ninham, a Stockbridge Indian, and Mr.
Winthrop Hoit, who has sundry years lived with the Caugh-
nawagoes in the capacity of a prisoner, and was made an
adopted son to a motherly squaw of that tribe, have both
been gone ten days to treat with the Indians, as our am-
bassadors of peace and friendship. I expect, in a few week',
to hear from them. By them I sent a friendly letter to the
Indians, which Mr. Hoit can explain to them in Indian.
The thing that so unites the temper of the Indians to us,
is our taking the sovereignty of Lake Champlain. They
have wit enough to make a good bargain, and stand by the
strongest side. Much the same may be said of the Ca-
nadians. They have no personal controversy with us, but
act on political principles. If we evacuate Lake Cham-
plain and retire to Lake George, Governour Carleton can
by intrigue, and will not fail to draw them into his interest.
If we hold the supremacy, we shall do the same, for cun-
ning and power are but the same thing, be it exercised by
either Carleton or us : but cunning without power can hold
no equal contest with that which is armed with it.

It may be thought that to push an Army into Canada
would be too premature and imprudent. If so, I propose
to make a stand at the Isle-au-Noii , which the French
fortified by intrenchment thejast war, and greatly fatigued
our large Army to take it ; it is about fifteen miles this side
St. John's, and is an island in the river, on which a small
artillery placed would command it. An establishment of a
frontier so far north, would not only better secure our own
frontier, but put it into our power better to work our policy
with the Canadians and Indians; or, if need be, to make
incursions into the territory of Canada j the same as they
could into our Country, provided they had the sovereignty
of Lake Champlain, and had erected head quarters at or
near Skencsborough. Our only having it in our power thus
to make incursions into Canada, might probably be the very
reason why it would be unnecessary so to do, even if thi
Canadians should prove more refractory than I think for.
Lastly, with submission, I would propose to your Honours
to raise a small regiment of Rangers, which 1 could easily
do, and that mostly in the Counties of Albany and Char-

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894

lotte, provided your Honours should think it expedient to
grant commissions, and thus regulate and put the same under
pay. Probably your Honours may think this an impertinent
proposal ; it is truly the first favour I ever asked of the
Government, and if it be granted, 1 shall be zealously am-
bitious to conduct for the best good of my Country and the
honour of the Government.

I subscribe myself, gentlemen, with due respect, your
Honours' most obedient humble servant,

Ethan Allen.

P. S. In the narrative contained In the enclosed was too
materially omitted the valour and intrepidity of Colonel
James Easton, and forty-six veteran soldiers from the Mas-
sachusetts-Bay, who assisted in taking of Ticonderoga.
Colonel Easton is just returned from the Provincial Con-
gress of the Massachusetts-Bay to this place, and expects
he will soon have the command of a Regiment from that
Province. Yours, &.c. E. A.

ADDRESS OF THE NEW-YORK PROVINCIAL CONGRESS TO
THE INHABITANTS OF QUEBECK.

la Provincial Congress, New- York, June 2, 1775.

Friends and Countrymen :

The Parent of the universe has divided this earth among
the children of men, and drawn out the line of their habi-
tations. The great God having ordained that all our joys
and sorrows here below should proceed from the effect of
human actions upon human beings, our situation has drawn
together this great bond of natural dependance, and ena-
bled us to deal out injuries and kindness to each other.
We consider you as our friends, and we feel for you the
affection of brothers.

The great question between Britain and her Colonies
is, whether they are subjects, or whether they are slaves.
The rights delivered down to us from our forefathers, the
venerable laws of our Country, have subjected our own
property to our own disposal, nor hath any earthly power
a right to take it away. Mankind ought to be governed
by the dictates of justice, not by the hand of oppression.
The peaceable enjoyment of what we yet call our own, and
that liberty which confers on every man the right of ador-
ing his God in the manner which he humbly thinks most
agreeable to the Divine nature — these are the objects of
all our labours and all our cares. Ministerial tyranny bath
endeavoured, throughout all these Colonies, to rend from
us the dearest rights of humanity; and in the defence of
those rights some persons have-taken certain forts in this
Colony, which are near your frontiers. We have heard
that others have made an attack upon the post of St.
John's, an attempt without our counsel or participation.
And although we have taken measures for the defence of
our own fortresses, yet our only intention is to prevent any
hostile incursions upon us by the troops of your Province.
Confident that the enemies of our King and his people will
take every opportunity to excite jealousies and discord
amongst us, we beseech you not to be imposed on by their
artifices, but call to your remembrance the complicated
horrours of a barbarous war. Avoid those measures which
must plunge us both into distress, and instead of consenting
to become miserable slaves, generously dare to participate
with your fellow-subjects in the sweets of that security
which is the glorious lot of freedom. We are, with sincere
affection, your brethren and friends.

P. V. B. Livingston, President.
To the Inhabitants of the Province of Quebeck.

GENERAL GREENE TO JACOE GREENE, ESQ.

Rhode-Island Camp, June 2, 1775.

I arrived in camp on Saturday last, and found it in great
commotion. A few days longer in the state of excitement
in which 1 found our Troops, would have proved fatal to
our campaign. The want of government, and of a cer-
tainty of supplies, had thrown every thing into disorder.
Several Companies had clubbed their muskets in order to
march home. I have made several regulations for intro-
ducing order and composing their murmurs ; but it is very
difficult to limit people who have had so much latitude,
without throwing them into disorder. The Commissaries

had been beaten off at my arrival, and were about return-
ing home the next day. I believe there never was a person
more welcome, who was so little deserving, as myself. 1
wish you would forward Colonel VarnurrCs Regiment ; he
will be a welcome guest in camp. I expect much from
his and his troops' example.

WILLIAM LITHGOW TO THE MASSACHUSETTS CONGRESS.

To the Honourable the Provincial Congress now assembled

at Watertown, fyc, the humble Petition of William

Lithgow shews to your Honours :

That he is an inhabitant of Georgetown, on Kennebeck

River, and comes in behalf and at the request of said Town,

to let your Honours know that we are in daily expectation

of being plundered by cutters or armed vessels, and thus

exposed to our enemy's insults ; therefore humbly pray that

your Honours would grant us one or two barrels or half

barrels of powder, or such a quantity as in your wisdom

may seem meet, as our town stock of powder, upon due

examination, is found not to exceed thirty pounds. And.

as in duty bound, shall ever pray. Wm. Lithgow.

Watortown, June 2, 1775.

COL. RICHARD GR1DLEY TO THE COMMITTEE OF SAFETY.

Cambridge, June 2, 1775.

Gentlemen: I am very sensible you are engaged in a
multiplicity of business of consequence, but I shall think
myself blameable in my duty if I do not urge, in the strongest
terms, the necessity there is of providing an establishment
for an ordnance store-keeper, conductors, and clerks, to take
care to keep accounts of the stores as they receive them
and deliver them, and also to make an establishment for a
company of artificers to make beds for mortars, and car-
riages for guns, and platforms, and mending wheelbarrows,
and keeping tools in repair, Sic.

The want of such establishments hinders greatly the
progress of the works, which I think is of great importance,
and beg you will please to use your interest with the Con-
gress, that such establishments be made immediately, if you
think proper.
I am, gentlemen, with respect, your most obedient servant,

Richard Gridley.

In Committee of Safety, Cambridge, June 2, 1775.

The above not being within the department of this Com-
mittee, they refer the same to the honourable Congress of
the Colony. Benj. White, Chairman.

NATHANIEL SHAW TO THE NEW-HAMPSHIRE CONGRESS.

New-London, June 2, 1775.

Gentlemen: The bearer, Mr. John Stale, applied to
me for a quantity of powder for the use of your Province,
but am sorry to inform you that article is very scarce in this
Colony, and not to be purchased. What I have imported
is on Government account, and by letters from New-York
I have lately received, it is not to be had in that Province,
neither in Rhode- Island. I expect a large quantity, but
from its not arriving, I begin to suspect that' either the
cruisers in the channel, or the negotiation between Great
Britain and the States, has prevented it. If I should have
a larger quantity arrive than should be wanted in this Col-
ony on Government account, I will give you the offer of it ;
but at the same time I would recommend to you that you
make no dependance on having any from me.

I am, gentlemen, your very humble servant,

Nath'l Shaw, Jr.

To Matthew Thornton, President of the Provincial Con-
vention of New- Hampshire.

NEW-HAMPSHIRE CONGRESS TO THEIR DELEGATES IN THE
CONTINENTAL CONGRESS.

Exeter, Juno 2, 1775.

Gentlemen : Enclosed we send you an address to your
Congress, relating to their order for the demolition of the
fort at Ticonderoga. The taking that garrison by the Col-
onists, and hopes of keeping it, have very much encouraged
the frontiers of this and the neighbouring Colonies. The

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896

continual accounts received from Canada, by scouts sent
irom our frontiers, and otherwise, keep them under the most
terrible apprehensions of being ravaged by the Canadians

and Indians. The late determination of your Congress 1ms
much increased it, as the destroying that fortress leaves

such an opening to the excursions of our enemies. We
desire your vigilance in a critical review of that matter.

Our circumstances appear daily more and more alarming.
The men-of-war stop all provision vessels coming into our
harbour, and send them to Boston ; and the Captain of the
Scarborough lias shewn his orders to a Committee who
waited upon him, to stop all provisions, salt, molasses, &c,
coming to us. Since which several hundred armed men,
in the day time, went down to the entrance of our harbour,
in open sight of the men-of-war, and brought from a point
of land there a number of large cannon, and deposited
them at Portsmouth for the present, where preparations
are making for mounting and fitting them for action. A
number of men are now making a battery on Kiltery Point;
and if we had a sufficiency of ammunition, should hope
soon to be able to command our harbour.

We would desire you, if any arms or gunpowder can be
procured in the Southern Governments, to procure them, il
possible, on such terms as you can make, with which the
Colony will endeavour punctually to comply. The diffi-
culty of land-carriage we would surmount, as the want
thereof must exclude every other difficulty. We have
wrote to you on the pressing occasion we have for a paper
currency, or some other, to answer our urgent necessity ;
and still must desire that you do all in your power that
some plan be formed, or directions given us by your Con-
gress for that purpose.

Enclosed we send you a copy of a vote of Council, rela-
tive to stopping provisions, &tc. We would have you en-
deavour to keep a constant correspondence with the Con-
gress or Committee of Safety, at Exeter, and inform us of
every thing you think essential.

In behalf of the Provincial Congress :

Matthew Thornton, President.

NEW-HAMPSHIRE CONGRESS TO CONTINENTAL CONGRESS.

[Read in Congress, June 21, 1775.]

^. In Provincial Congress, Exeter, )

June 2, 1775. (

Gentlemen : A late order of your very respectable
Congress, for the demolition of the fortress at Ticonderoga,
and removal of the artillery from thence, has very much
damped the expectation of the people in this Colony,
arising from the security our frontiers hoped to receive by
the check the Canadians and savages might receive in any
incursions on us, by a good garrison there. We are heartily
disposed to, and shall readily obey all the orders and di-
rections you give us ; and on this occasion would not pre-
sume to complain or dictate, but most humbly to suggest,
that all the land and waters between the south end of Lake
George and Crown Point, together with all Lake Cham-
plain, will be left open for Canadians and savages (if they
should be disposed, which we very much fear) to ravage
all the country east. Our new settlements, extended on
Connecticut River for a hundred miles, are very defence-
less in every respect, and under terrible apprehensions, from
the accounts of the warlike preparations making in Canada
against the Colony.

The reasons which directed your order in this matter,
we are unacquainted with, but would wish a review thereof;
and if you should then think it best that the former order
be countermanded, we hope it will be a service to the com-
mon cause ; otherwise, shall concur in your determination
of that as well as all other matters that concern the welfare
of America.

In behalf of the Provincial Congress aforesaid, I am,
gentlemen, your most obedient humble servant,

Matthew Thornton, President.
To the Honourable Continental Congress.

lulion of the Continental Congress, respecting the demo-
lition of the fortress at Ticonderoga, is just come to hand ;
that we have taken the same into consideration, and as we
hi that fortress to be at a place truly important to the
welfare of all these Northern Colonics in general, and to
this Colony in particular, the thoughts of its demolition
casts a damp on the spirits of our people, as we appre-
hend our western frontiers will be thereby greatly exposed
to the depredations of the Canadians and Indians, if (as
we have reason to fear) they should incline to annoy us.
And not being acquainted with the reasons for passing that
order, wo have thought it our duty to entreat that respect-
able body again to take that matter into their consideration,
And, if they shall think proper, to order that the said for-
tress may be kept in possession of the Colonies ; and we
would earnestly entreat your concurrence with us in said
request. At the same time you may be assured that no
Colony on this Continent is, or can be more determined
than we are, to abide by the determination of that respect-
able body.

In behalf of the Provincial Congress aforesaid, 1 am,
gentlemen, your most obedient humble servant,

Matthew Thornton, President.

To the President of the Congress at New-York.

P. S. By an enclosed Resolve of this body, you will
find we are providing against any attempt from Canada on
our adjacent frontier. We earnestly desire your approba-
tion of this measure, and concurrence with it, by adding
such numbers of troops from your Colony, as in your wis-
dom and concern for the general good, you may think
proper. M. T.

COMMITTEE OF PORTSMOUTH TO NEW-HAMPSHIRE CON-
GRESS.

Portsmouth, June 2, 1775.

Gentlemen : On the preservation of the peace and
good order of this Town, is the only security that this Com-
mittee have, whereby they expect to carry into execution
any measures which the Provincial Congress may resolve
upon ; therefore find ourselves necessitated to desire you
would be pleased to regulate all future movements of any-
bodies of armed men from one Town to another, as many-
inconveniences and losses to the publick are sustained
thereby, especially at this time, when so many idle and
false reports are spread, by which the good people of this
Province are alarmed, and assemble together for the defence
of the grand cause in which we are all embarked. We are
fearful our enemies will improve every opportunity to in-
crease these alarms, and make them so familiar to us as to
put us off our guard, and then may strike some fatal blow.

We find this Town labours under many difficulties pecu-
liar to seaports, and which our friends in the country are
free from. The stagnation of trade, and the return of our
shipping, increases the number of our people, who, for want
of employment, readily fall into disorders, and when num-
bers are once collected, it is very difficult to persuade them
to disperse, until they exceed the bounds of reason. We
have great reason to believe that our invaders are endea-
vouring to promote alarms to harass the country, and to
prevent our agriculture, by calling off and diverting our
attention from that great, and, at this time, particularly
necessary duty.

Any resolves Congress may pass upon our request, it
is desired that copies of the same be sent to every Com-
mittee in every Town, besides being published in the pub-
lick prints, as it is necessary it should be known in the
most publick manner, and as soon as possible. We submit
our request to your wisdom, wishing you Divine assistance
in your consultations for the publick weal.

I am, gentlemen, your most humble servant.
By order of the Committee :

H. Wentworth, Chairman.
To the Honourable Congress at Exeter.

SOUTH-CAROLINA PROVINCIAL CONGRESS.
CONGRESS OF NEW-HAMPSHIRE TO NEW-YORK CONGRESS. Cliarlestown, Saturday, June 3, 1775.

,, New.lla.iijwiiire, June 2, 1775. Resolved, That this Congress do earnestly recommend

Gentlemen: I am directed by the Provincial Congress to all their constituents, the promotion of union and har-

now convened in this Town, to advise you that the Reso- mony by all means in their power. That to this purpose

897

CORRESPONDENCE, PROCEEDINGS, &c, JUNE, 1775.

898

all those things be avoided which tend to promote disaffec-
tion between the people, utterly discountenancing all na-
tional reflections, and engaging to be watchful and diligent
that the laws for the peace and good order of the Colony
be observed inviolate as far as may be.

Wednesday, June 7, 1775.

Ordered, That the above Resolve be printed, and made
publick.

A true copy from the Minutes :

Peter Timothy, Secretary.

association
Unanimously agreed to in the Provincial Congress of
South-Carolina, on Saturday, June 3, 1775.
The actual commencement of hostilities against this
Continent, by the British Troops, in the bloody scene on
the 19th of April last, near Boston; the increase of arbi-
trary impositions from a wicked and despotick Ministry ;
and the dread of instigated insurrections in the Colonies,
are causes sufficient to drive an oppressed people to the
use of arms. We, therefore, the subscribers, inhabitants
of South- Carolina, holding ourselves bound by that most
gacred of all obligations — the duty of good citizens towards
an injured Country ; and thoroughly convinced that, under
our present distressed circumstances, we shall be justified
before God and man in resisting force by force, do unite
ourselves under every tie of religion and honour, and asso-
ciate as a band in her defence, against every foe ; hereby
solemnly engaging, that whenever our Continental or Pro-
vincial Councils shall decree it necessary, we will go forth
nnd be ready to sacrifice our lives and fortunes to secure
her freedom and safety. This obligation to continue in
full force until a reconciliation shall take place between
Great Britain and America, upon constitutional princi-
ples ; an event which we most ardently desire. And we
will hold all those persons inimical to the liberty of the
Colonies, who shall refuse to subscribe to this Association.

Subscribed by every member present, on the fourth day
of June, 1775.

Certified by Henry Laurens, President.

Norfolk (Virginia) committee.

Committee-Chamber, Norfolk, June 3, 1775.

Present : Mr. Chairman and twenty Members.

The Committee being informed that the Ship Molly,
Captain Mitcheson, has lately arrived from Great Britain,
laden with a large quantity of goods from Messrs. Eilbeck,
Ross, and Company; and the circumstances of the impor-
tation appearing very suspicious, and inducing this Com-
mittee to believe there was an intention thereby to coun-
teract the Association :

Resolved, therefore, That agreeably to the Association,
the said ship ought, on or before Tuesday morning next, to
return directly back with the said goods ; and that a copy
of the invoice ought to be delivered to the Sub-Committee
which this Committee shall appoint ; and that a Certificate,
properly authenticated, that the said goods have been ac-
tually relanded in Great Britain, ought also to be produced
to this Committee by the said Eilbeck, Ross, and Compa-
ny, as soon as the said Certificate can be produced and
transmitted to their hands.

Ordered, That the above Resolution be published.
William Davies, Secretary.

Committeo Chamber, June 4, 1775.
Present: Mr. Chairman and twenty-two Members.
Upon motion, Resolved, That it be published at the
same time with the Resolution of yesterday, that Mr. Ross
and Mr. Eilbeck did this day wait on this Committee, and
produced their invoice of goods shipped on board the Mol-
ly ; and that it did not appear to this Committee that the
said goods were shipped by order of the said Ross or Eil-
beck, but on their account, by Mr. Chambers, of White-
haven.

By order of the Committee :

William Davies, Secretary.

Fourth Series. — Vol. n.

NEW-YORK DELEGATES TO PROVINCIAL CONGRESS.

Philadelphia, June 3, 1775.

Gentlemen : We have received your several letters,
and communicated such of your papers to the Congress as
were intended for their inspection. Your plan for raising
money we are much pleased with, though we have some
doubt of its being adopted ; however, as the reasons on
which it is founded appear to us to be conclusive, we shall
use our endeavour to carry it through. Till the success is
known, you will, we dare say, see a propriety in keeping
the whole secret. We observe with pleasure the atten-
tion of our Colony to Indian affairs, as they are really of
the highest importance. Should you conceive the interpo-
sition of the Congress necessary, you will let us know the
mode in which you think it will be most effectual.

You inquire whether the direction relative to the Militia
of New- York was intended to extend farther than that City
and County. In answer to this we must inform you, that
it was the design of the Congress that the whole Province
should be well armed and disciplined.

We wish to hear that you have received some supply of
powder, as we fear that none is to be purchased here, the
people conceiving they have not a sufficient stock for their
own defence. We believe, however, that Connecticut will
take care to supply their Troops at Ticonderoga with that
article, as the command of that post is for the present vested
in their officers, owing to your repeated declaration of your
inability to furnish the arms and ammunition necessary for
its defence.

We think it an object of great consequence to know in
whom you would wish to vest the command of the Conti-
nental Army in our Province, which is to be maintained at
the general charge, and hope you will not be at a loss to fix
on men among yourselves who may be entrusted with that
important charge. As General Officers will, in all proba-
bility, be shortly appointed by this Congress, your express
should return immediately, with a warm recommendation of
those persons in our Province who you think may safely be
trusted with the first and second commands, as Major and
Brigadier Generals. If possible let us have an answer to
this by Tuesday morning, drawn up in such a manner that,
if necessary, it may be offered to the Congress, with the
reasons on which such choice is founded. We know of
nothing farther that may require your attention, unless it
be to recommend a profound secresy with respect to any
advice we may offer, particularly on the subject of this
letter, though we conceive that your own prudence will
render any such recommendation unnecessary. If you
wish for any other directions, pray be speedy and explicit
in your application.

We remain, with great respect, your most obedient hum-
ble servants,

James Duane,
R. R. Livingston, Jr.,
Philip Schuyler,
John Alsop,

Francis Lewis,
William Floyd,
Simon Boerum,
Henry Wisner.

To the Provincial Congress of the Colony of New- York.

NEW-YORK COMMITTEE.

At a meeting of the Committee, Monday, 3d of June,
1775. Present :

James Desbrosses,
Cornelius P. Low,
Petrus Byvanck,
William Denning,
John Imlay,
Peter T. Curtenius,
Thomas Ivors,
John Anthony,
Thomas Randall,
John Lamb,
William W. Ludlow,
John Berrian,

Henry Remsen,
George Janeway,
Frederick Jay,
Evert Banker,
Robert Ray,
Nicholas Roosevelt,
Abrm. Brinkerhoff,
Cornelius Clopper,
Abraham Duryee,
Alex. JUcDougall,
Edward Fleming,
Joseph Bull,
Comfort Sands,

A Letter, dated New-York, 3d June, 1775, from Mr.
George Folliott, received and read ; in which he declines
representing this City and County in Provincial Congress.

Mr. Lamb, seconded by Mr. Denning, moved in the
words following, viz: as Mr. George Folliott has declined
serving as a member of the Provincial Congress, and of
this Committee, I move that this Committee do proceed

Gabriel W. Ludlow,
John Morton,
William Goforth,
Oliver Templeton,
James Beekman,
Nicholas Bogart,
Lancaster Burling,
Francis Bassett,
William Laight,
John Lasher,
Abraham P. Lott,
William W. Gilbert.

57

899

CORRESPONDENCE, PROCEEDINGS, &c, JUNE, 1775.

900

to the nomination to serve in his stead, hoth in the Pro-
vincial Congress and in this Committee.

Resolved, That Mr. Isaac Stars be nominated by this
Committee for the approbation of the freeholders and free-
men of this City and County, to represent them in Pro-
vincial Congress in the room of Mr. George Folliott, who
declines serving. And that Mr. William liedlow and Mr.
John Woodward, be also nominated as members of this
Committee instead of the said Mr. Folliott, and of Mr.
Samuel Jones, who never has attended.

Ordered, That a poll be opened at the City-Hall, on
Thursday, the 8th instant, at nine o'clock in the morning,
to elect the above persons, or such others as may be ap-
proved of for the above purposes.

At which time the Freeholders and Freemen are request-
ed to attend. The poll will be under the inspection of
Messrs. R. Ray and Evert Banker, and the Vestrymen of
the North Ward.

PROCLAMATION BY GOVEKNOUR COLDEN.

By the Honourable Cadwallader Colden, Esquire,
His Majesty's Lieutenant-Governour and Commander-
in-Chief of the Province of New- York, and the Ter-
ritories depending thereon in America :
A Proclamation.

Whereas the General Assembly of this Province stands
prorogued to the seventh day of June instant: I have
thought fit, for His Majesty's service, to prorogue, and I do,
by and with the advice of His Majesty's Council, farther
prorogue the said General Assembly to the fifth day of
July next ; of which all His Majesty's subjects concerned
therein are required to take notice, and govern themselves
accordingly.

Given under my hand and seal at arms, at Fort George,
in the City of New- York, the third day of June, one thou-
sand seven hundred and seventy-five, in the sixteenth year
of the reign of our Sovereign Lord George the Third, by
the Grace of God, of Great-Britain, France, and Ireland,
King, Defender of the Faith, and so forth.

Cadwallader Colden.

By his Honour's command,

Samuel Bayard, Jun., D. Secretary.

God save the King.

to the Continent. His transgressions are known to your
whole body. He lias subscribed our Association, and we
know not that he has since his subscription done any thing
contrary to its true intent and meaning. Those expedients
we have gone into to preserve present peace and good
order will appear from the enclosed. We pray the direc-
tions of the Congress on this matter, and are, he.

JAMES RIVINGTON TO THE NEW-YORK CONGRESS.

Friday Morning, 10 o'clock.

Sir : Having been just now informed that my case has
been referred to the judgment of the gentlemen of the
Provincial Congress of this City, and that it may probably
be considered by them this morning, I have been employed
the little time allowed me, to copy and enclose the letter
from the gentlemen of the New- York Committee, and my
own address to the Delegates in the Continental Congress,
and added a newspaper, in which is inserted my address to
the publick, that the gentlemen of the very respectable
Board over which you have the honour to preside, may be
acquainted with the whole proceedings in the matter.

Your continuance of my suit, and your friendly media-
tion on this occasion, will everlastingly oblige, Sir, your
most obedient servant, James Rjvingtqn.

COMMITTEE OF NEW-YOJRK TO THE CONTINENTAL CON-
GRESS.

Gentlemen: The agitation of this Town respecting
Mr. Rivington, as a printer, has given this Committee
much concern. Some of the warm friends of liberty seem
not to be fully satisfied that his former offences, as they
were against the whole Continent, are within our authority;
and we are concerned that nothing less than a determina-
tion of the General Congress will give full satisfaction on
that head, much less secure him in his person and proper-
ty. We have therefore resolved to refer his case to your
respectable body, and would beg leave strongly to urge it
as a subject of their consideration. We have adopted
temporary expedients ; but as they are merely temporary
in effect, as far as concerns him, we beg the direction of
that body, whose determination we doubt not will be a law

Providence, Rhodo-Island, June 3, lTT.i.

The Committee of this Town have appointed a person
to act as Postmaster here, as also a Post-Rider under the
direction and control of said Committee, until the Legis-
lature of this Colony, or the Continental Congress, shall
be pleased to make other regulations and appointments.

A number of the inhabitants of Plymouth went a few
days ago to Nantucket, in whale-boats, and took from
thence eight hundred barrels of flour, the property of a
merchant at Dartmouth, and which is supposed was in-
tended to be smuggled into Boston, for supplying the
Ministerial Army.

Last week the company of the train of Artillery lately
raised here, all well accoutred, with four excellent field-
pieces, marched to join the American Army near Boston :
they made a very military appearance, and are, without
exception, as complete a body of men as any in the King's
Dominions. The other companies raised here, and in the
adjacent Towns, as also several from the south Counties,
all able-bodied men, and well armed, have marched to the
American camp. Several companies of the Connecticut
forces have also passed through this Town, to join their
brethren.

Twelve pieces of battering cannon, eighteen and twen-
ty-four pounders, with a quantity of ordnance stores, were
sent from hence to the American camp a few days since.

MASSACHUSETTS CONGRESS TO HENRY GARDNER.

Provincial Congress, Watertown, June 3, 1775.

Sir: For the absolute necessity of paying the Colony
forces immediately, (having been duly considered by this
Congress, and not being able to make necessary payment
to prevent the Troops from returning home without your
being present,) you are therefore directed, upon the receipt
of this order, immediately to repair to this place, and make
the utmost despatch in completing the signing of the Bills
wanted for the above purpose.

Signed by order of the Congress:

Saml. Freeman, Secretary.

To Henry Gardner, Esq., Receiver-General.

P. S. The Congress is just informed that a gentleman
at Salem has five hundred Pounds, which he is willing to
lend the Province, which would be of the greatest impor-
tance, to pay immediately to the soldiers, and might pre-
vent the greatest mischiefs.

COMMITTEE OF ARUNDEL TO MASSACHUSETTS CONGRESS.

To the Honourable Congress of the Province of the Mas-

sachusetts-Bay, in New-England, now sitting:
The Committee of the Town of Arundel, in said Prov-
ince, sendeth greeting :

Whereas, a sloop belonging to the said Town of Arundel,
about three weeks ago sailed out of this harbour, and dis-
posed of her cargo at Plymouth, and having received her
effects, upon her return was seized and carried into Bos-
ton, and there detained by General Gage for some time,
and her effects taken into his custody, for which he paid
near the prime cost. After which a proposal was made to
the master of said sloop by the officers of the Troops to
enlist into the Governour's service, with a promise of a
large reward for his service therein. The master being
now under confinement, and knowing of no means of ob-
taining his liberty, now thought this proposal the only way
to make his escape, and obtain his liberty, and therefore
complied with the same, and accordingly received orders to
sail immediately for Annapolis, to bring a quantity of hay
and other stores for the use of the Troops in Boston. A
number of the King's arms, with cartridges, were put on

901

CORRESPONDENCE, PROCEEDINGS, &c, JUNE, 1775.

902

board, and two young men (one named Josiah Jones and
the other Jonathan Hicks) were put on board, one or both
of whom as supercargo in the above employment, with a
packet of letters, orders, and other papers. The master
then being prepared to go out, sailed directly for this port,
and arrived in this harbour the 2d instant, with the persons,
letters, &,c, as above mentioned, who were immediately
carried before the Committee of this Town, and after ex-
amination of both, it was agreed by the Committee, and
they have accordingly sent the persons and papers under
guard to this honourable Provincial Congress now sitting,
for examination, and to be dealt with as they in their united
wisdom shall think just. The master and mate of said
sloop we have hereby sent, by whom an account of the
whole affair will be given.

Benj. Durrell, Jonathan Stone,
James Burnham, John Hovey,
Thos. Wiswall,

Committee of the Town of Arundel.
Arundel, June 3, 1775.

Watertown, June 9, 1775.
I, the subscriber, being of lawful age, do testify that,
being in a coasting sloop belonging to Arundel, and on my
return from Plymouth, was taken by a cutter belonging to
Admiral Graves's squadron, in Boston, and carried into
that port, and there detained several days ; and being soli-
cited by Admiral Graves's Secretary to enter into His Ma-
jesty's service, and knowing no other way wherein I could
possibly make my escape but by entering into said service,
to go to Windsor, in Nova-Scotia, for hay and other things ;
and having one Josiah Jones put on board as factor, and
being ready to sail, I desired of the Captain of our convoy
leave to sail, but he told me I must not sail till to-morrow,
at ten o'clock, as there were a number of other vessels in
the same employ, and should all sail together. I then de-
sired leave of Mr. Jones to haul off into the road, and
obtained leave. It being dark, I got consent of our factor,
Mr. Jones, to sail ; I therefore embraced the opportunity,
and immediately sailed for Arundel, where I arrived in
about twenty-four hours, and delivered up Mr. Jones, and
one Jonathan Hicks, who was introduced on board my
sloop by Mr. Jones, but for what purpose I cannot tell.
And further saith, that Mr. Jones desired me to oil and
clean the fire-arms that were put on board to defend our-
selves, as he said the rebels might attack us on our passage.

Samuel Smith.

Mr. Ephraim Perkins : Boston, May 30, 1775.

Sir: You will immediately proceed with the Sloop
Molly, under your command, to Windsor, in the Bay of
Funda, and receive such orders as Mr. Jones will give you
respecting your cargo, making every despatch that is pos-
sible, taking care to touch at no other harbour unless it be
absolutely necessary. Jos. Goldthwait, for

Wm. Sherriff,
Deputy Quartermaster General.

Boston, May 30, 1775.

Mr. Jones: You will proceed to Windsor, in Nova-
Scotia, with the Sloop Polly, Ephraim Perkins master,
and, immediately upon your arrival there, you will apply
to Messrs. Day and Scott for a cargo, as specified in the
letter herewith transmitted to them; and in case they should
not be there when you arrive, you will immediately hire
an express and forward the letter to them at Halifax. And
I trust in your diligence in receiving the cargo, and making
every despatch in your power on your return to this port.
And you are further to observe, that you are not, upon
your return, to put into any harbour upon the eastern
coast, without being forced to by absolute necessity.

Sir, I am your most obedient servant,

Wm. Sherriff, Dep. Q. M. General.

Boston, May 30, 1775.

Gentlemen : The bearer, Mr. Josiah Jones, with the
Sloop Polly, Ephraim Perkins, master, is chartered for
Windsor, in Nova-Scotia, in order to receive from you
hay and oats. I am therefore to desire you will use every
endeavour to despatch him as soon as possible, agreeable

to my letter, wrote you via Halifax, the 29th instant.
Please to forward the enclosed by express to Annapolis.
I am, gentlemen, your most obedient humble servant,

Wm. Sherriff.
To Messrs. Day and Scott, at Windsor, Nova-Scotia.

Boston, May 29, 1775.

Dear Sir: I have received your obliging favour, and
return you many thanks for the trouble you have taken,
and readiness you have shown, in giving your assistance, so
necessary at present, for the good of the service. The
hay will be most acceptable, and I am in hopes Captain
Perkins's vessel has taken a part on board, as he promised
me she should return immediately, and I will send you an-
other one as soon as possible, I shall want three or four
thousand tons of hay, and I wish, with all my heart, poor
Annapolis could furnish it ; but all it can furnish I will
take ; and if they are industrious they may get a great deal
of money for their vegetables, poultry, butter, eggs, Stc,
&c, and may come directly into this port without any ex-
pense whatever, and will be sure to find every encourage-
ment and assistance that can be given them. On the other
hand, if they give themselves airs, and follow the cursed
example of these madmen, they will easily consider how
readily Government can chastise them, and they may rely
upon it they will, and that immediately too. But I hope
they will consider their interest better, and make all the
money they can ; they never will have a fairer opportunity.

I have wrote to Messrs. Day and Scott, at Halifax,
respecting tonnage, and have desired them to consult with
you about the quantity that may be procured at Annapolis,
as they are to furnish the remainder from Windsor and
that neighbourhood.

Procure hay-screws, and at any rate, and the whole should
be carried to a particular place most convenient for that
purpose, as also for shipping of it. You have not advised
me in what manner I am to make you remittances for ex-
penses to be incurred in the above service, therefore shall
expect it per next. We are in the same situation as when
I wrote you last, except the addition of twelve hundred
Troops, lately arrived from England, three Regiments of
Horse, and eight other Regiments are hourly expected,
when 1 hope you will hear better accounts from us. I am
hurried to death, therefore have only time to add my com-
pliments to all friends, and to wish you every happiness,
being truly, dear Sir, your faithful and obedient servant,

Wm. Sherriff.

Thomas Williams, Esquire, Storekeeper of Ordnance at

Annapolis Royal.

P. S. If you can add to the quantity of old hay, pray
do, and don't mind the expense. W. S.

LOAMMI BALDWIN TO THE MASSACHUSETTS CONGRESS.

Cambridge, June 3, 1775.

His Excellency General Ward, having been pleased to
approve of a proposal made for taking some surveys of the
ground between us and our enemies, and as some mathe-
matical instruments are wanting to enable us to complete
the same, this is, therefore, humbly to desire that the hon-
ourable Provincial Congress would grant leave for such
instruments as are wanting for said purpose to be taken
out of the apparatus belonging to Harvard College, to be
returned as soon as said surveys shall be finished.

I am, gentlemen, your most obedient servant,

Loammi Baldwin.

To the Honourable the Provincial Congress of the Massa-
chusetts-Bay.

NEW-HAMPSHIRE CONGRESS TO MASSACHUSETTS CONGRESS.
In Provincial Congress, Exeter, June 3, 1775.

Gentlemen : Having undoubted intelligence of the at-
tempts of the British Ministry to engage the Canadians and
savages in their interest in the present controversy with Ame-
rica, and of actual movements in Canada in consequence
thereof, we have thought it necessary that measures should be
immediately taken to defend and quiet the minds of the peo-
ple more especially exposed in the frontiers, and accordingly
have resolved to send a number of Troops as soon as may

903

CORRESPONDENCE, PROCEEDINGS, Lc, JUNE, 1715.

904

be ; three companies, for the present, to be employed where,
and in such manner as may best answer that important end.
We thought it expedient to give you the earliest intelli-
gence of what we have done in this way, earnestly praying,
and nothing doubting, but that you will concur in such mea-
sures as in your wisdom you shall judge reasonable and
necessary for the defence and safety of the back settlements,
for whom both you and we must very sensibly feel.

We furthermore think it suitable just to suggest, that we
have some apprehension lest our military manoeuvres on the
frontiers should raise a jealousy in the minds of the Cana-
dians, and awaken their fears of direct intentions of hos-
tilities against them. We should give them the most posi-
tive assurance upon this head, that we desire nothing more
than our own security, and that it is our most hearty wish
to remain on steady terms of friendship with them. And
in order to the more regular, harmonious, and effectual
prosecution of the important object aforesaid, as also other
valuable purposes that we conceive it may answer, we would
humbly move for a conference by a Committee, with a Com-
mittee from you, at such time and place as you shall please
to appoint, and to consider of an address to be forwarded
to the Canadians, and put it in the power of this Congress
to join with you, and, if it might be, the other New-Eng-
land Colonies and New-York, that this negotiation might
answer the most effectual purpose.

By order of Congress, I am your most obedient humble
servant, Matthew Thornton, President.

and that the scarcity of provisions at that time would plead
for him, as what he did was from a desire of supplying the
many strangers in Town ; but as he had since been informed
that such procedure was contrary to a resolve of a Provin-
cial Convention, he would take care to offend in that manner
no more, and hoped the Committee woidd forgive him.

The sense of the Committee being taken on the above,
they declared it a breach of the resolve of the Provincial
Convention respecting the killing of Lambs; but, all cir-
cumstances considered, they were of opinion he ought to
be forgiven.

Ordered, That these proceedings be published in the
Maryland Gazette. G. Duvall, Clerk.

GENERAL SCHUYLER TO NEW-YORK CONGRESS.

New-York, Juno 4, 1775.

Gentlemen : As I am ordered by the Continental Con-
gress to liquidate the accounts of the people employed in
the reduction of Ticonderoga, that they may be paid ; and
as Messrs. Allen and Warner were concerned, there will
be money due to them ; and as they are in want of some, I
could wish you to advance them thirty Pounds, and to make
it a Continental charge, for which I shall debit them in their
account with the publick.

I am, gentlemen, your most obedient humble servant,

Philip Schuyler.

To the Honourable Members of the New-York Provincial
Congress.

EXTRACT OF A LETTER FROM A GENTLEMAN IN LONDON TO
HIS FRIEND IN PHILADELPHIA, DATED JUNE 4, 1775.

From business you naturally expect I should descend
to news and politicks. Of the former we should have had
a dearth, had it not been for the arrival of Captain Darby
with the account of the Lexington affair, which has greatly
agitated the people and confounded the Ministry, who fain
would suppress the account, or disbelieve it ; but notwith-
standing we are without despatches from General Gage, it
has full credit with many, and friends are daily added to
the American cause. Even Hutchinson is become a con-
vert. 1 hope he will live to make amends for all the harsh
things he has said and wrote against America.

The virtue and spirit of your City is highly spoken of,
and your strict adherence to the rules of the Congress does
you honour. The duplicity of New- York will ever render
them suspected. The many and repeated assurances given
to the Ministry by their quondam leaders, will justify a sus-
picion, which the conduct of some of the merchants and
traders confirms, that they would adopt any means to break
through or elude the Association.

One avenue, indeed, seems to have been unguarded by
the Congress, through which they may attempt to break
the Association with impunity, and that is, by importing
goods and manufactures from the Island of Guernsey, where
large quantities of goods, suitable to the American con-
sumption, have been landed. Now, as a friend to America,
I would fain hold forth to the publick view every secret at-
tempt to frustrate and destroy your present Association,
which I consider as your grand bulwark. I would recom-
mend it to the sons of liberty in Nciv-York, to be watchful
and circumspect of all arrivals from that quarter, as goods
or manufactures imported from thence are as much English
as those manufactured in Great Britain itself, to which it
is so contiguous. To guard against such attempts you may,
if you think proper, communicate my fears to the real
friends of America and all congressional measures.

ANNE ARUNDEL COUNTY (MARYLAND) COMMITTEE.

At a meeting of the Committee of Observation for Anne
Arundel County and City of Annapolis, on the fourth day
of June, 1775, in the said City,

Mr. Charles Wallace, Chairman.
A charge having been made on oath, before the Com-
mittee, that Thomas Chipchase, of this City, butcher, on
the twenty-third day of May last, had killed several Lambs,
he was ordered to attend. He appeared, and confessed the
fact, alleging, as an excuse, that he understood that there
was no absolute prohibition by the Continental Congress,

ETHAN ALLEN TO THE CANADIANS.

Ticonderoga, June 4, 1775.

To our worthy and respectable Countrymen and Friends,
the French People of Canada, greeting:
Friends and Fellow-Countrymen : You are undoubt-
edly more or less acquainted with the unnatural and un-
happy controversy subsisting between Great Britain and
her Colonies, the particulars of which, in this letter, we do
not expatiate upon, but refer your consideration of the jus-
tice and equitableness thereof on the part of the Colonies,
to the former knowledge that you have had of this matter.
We need only observe, that the inhabitants of the Colonies
view the controversy on their part to be justifiable in the
sight of God, and all unprejudiced and honest men that
have or may have opportunity and ability to examine into
the merits of it. Upon this principle those inhabitants de-
termine to vindicate their cause, and maintain their natural
and constitutional rights and liberties at the expense of their
lives and fortunes, but have not the least disposition to
injure, molest, or any way deprive our fellow-subjects, the
Canadians, of their liberty or property. Nor have they
any design to wage war against them ; and from all intima-
tions that the inhabitants of the said Colonies, have received
from the Canadians, it has appeared that they were alike
disposed for friendship and neutrality, and not at all disposed
to take part with the King's Troops in the present civil war
against the Colonies. We were nevertheless surprised to
hear that a number of about thirty Canadians attacked our
reconnoitring party, consisting of four men, fired on them,
and pursued them, and obliged them to return the fire.
This is the account of the party which has since arrived at
Head-Quarters. We desire to know of any gentlemen Ca-
nadians, the facts of the case, as one story is good till
another is told. Our general order to the soldiery was,
that they should not, on pain of death, molest or kill any
of your people. But if it shall appear, upon examination,
that our reconnoitring party commenced hostilities against
your people, they shall suffer agreeable to the sentence of
a court-martial ; for our special orders from the Colonies
are, to befriend and protect you, if need be ; so that if you
desire their friendship, you are invited to embrace it, for
nothing can be more undesirable to your friends in the
Colonies, than a war with their fellow-subjects the Cana-
dians, or with the Indians. You are very sensible that
war has already commenced between England and the
Colonies. Hostilities have already begun ; to fight with
the King's Troops has become a necessary and incumbent
duty ; the Colonies cannot avoid it. But pray, is it neces-
sary that the Canadians and the inhabitants of the Etiglish
Colonies should butcher one another? God forbid. There
is no controversy subsisting between you and them. Pray

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CORRESPONDENCE, PROCEEDINGS, fcc, JUNE, 1775.

90G

let old England and the Colonies fight it out ; and you,
Canadians, stand by and see what an arm of flesh can do.
We are apprehensive that the conduct of your people, be-
fore complained of, had not a general approbation, and are
still confident that your Country, as such, will not wage war
with the Colonies, or approve the aforesaid hostile conduct
of your people, as we conceive it to be impolilick to the last
degree for the Canadians to enter into a bloody war with-
out either a provocation or motive, and when, at the same
time, every motive of interest, virtue, and honour, are ready
at hand to dissuade you from it. In fine, we conclude Saint
Luke, Captain McCoy, and other evil-minded persons,
whose interest and inclination it is that the Canadians and
the people of those Colonies should cut one another's
throats, have inveigled some of the baser sort of your peo-
ple to attack our said reconnoitring party. We expect,
gentlemen, as to these particulars, you will in good time
inform us ; and subscribe ourselves your real friends,

Ethan Allen,
At present the principal Commander of the Army.

James Easton.

A copy of the foregoing letter was this day sent to Mr.
Walker, our trusty friend at Montreal, per favour of Mr.
Jrffere, whose fidelity is unquestionable; and it is wholly
left with Mr. Walker to make its contents the most publick
that he possibly can, whether by printing it and translating
it into French, &ic. We furthermore thought it expedient
your Honours should have a copy communicated to you.

Yours at command, Ethan Allen,

James Easton.
To the Provincial Congress of New- York.

ELBRIDGE GERRY TO THE MASSACHUSETTS DELEGATES IN
THE CONTINENTAL CONGRESS.

\Vatertown, June 4, 1775.

Gentlemen: A publick express for your honourable
body gives me opportunity to hand you information of the
affairs of this Province. From the confusion in which the
engagement at Lexington threw the people, they are now
beginning to recover, and I hope, by the speedy assistance
of some form of Government, that the measures which
will be necessary for defence, will not only be practicable,
but executed here with success. The spirit of the people
is equal to our wishes, and if they continue as they began,
it will be as familiar to fight as to pursue the dangers
of the ocean. We want assistance by ammunition and
money. A full supply of these would render Lord North
and his myrmidons as harmless as they are infamous. We
have stripped the seaports of canvass to make tents ; and
it is of great importance to possess ourselves of about five
hundred pieces of ravens duck, to keep the soldiers in
health. I should be glad if the bearer could obtain it on
the credit of our vote, as we want all of our specie to
send out of the Government for other purposes; but I am
doubtful whether you can assist us in this matter, although
very important, as the great objects of your attention must
take up your whole time.

Government is so essential that it cannot be too soon
adopted ; and although no argument can be necessary to
convince you of so plain a truth, yet it may not be amiss
to hint a matter which can only be discovered by being
where it has taken place. The people are fully possessed
of their dignity from the frequent delineation of their
rights, which have been published to defeat the ministe-
rial party in their attempt to impress them with high no-
tions of Government. They now feel rather too much
their own importance, and it requires great skill to produce
such subordination as is necessary. This takes place prin-
cipally in the Army. They have affected to hold the mili-
tary too high, but the civil must be first supported ; and
unless an established form of Government is provided, it
will be productive of injury. Every day's delay will
make the task more arduous.

We want, also, a regular General to assist us in dis-
ciplining the Army, which, in twelve months' time, and
perhaps less, by frequent skirmishes, may be brought to
stand against any troops, however formidable they may
be with the sounding names of Welsh Fusileers, Grena-
diers, Sic. And although the pride of our people would

prevent their submitting to be led by any General not an
American, yet 1 cannot but think that General Lee might
be so established as to render great service by his presence
and counsels with our officers. I should heartily rejoice
to see this way the beloved Colonel Washington, and do
not doubt the New-England Generals would acquiesce in
showing to our sister Colony, Virginia, the respect which
she has before experienced from the Continent, in making
him Generalissimo. This is a matter in which Dr. War-
ren agrees with me, and we had intended to write you
jointly on the affair.

The letter from our Joint Committees and the Gene-
rals to the Congress, will come before you, and nothing
further is necessary on this head. I remain, gentlemen,
with great respect, your obedient servant,

« Elbridge Gerry.

To the Honourable Members of the Continental Congress
from Massachusetts-Bay.

GEN. WARD AND OTHERS TO CONTINENTAL CONGRESS.

Cambridge, June 4, 1775.

May it please your Honours : We beg leave to rep-
resent to you the peculiar distresses of this Colony, being
assured that you will, as the wise guardians of the lives,
liberties, and properties of the whole of this extensive
Continent, attend to the several circumstances of all who,
under God, look up to you for protection and deliverance.

Our capital is filled with disciplined troops, thoroughly
equipped with every thing necessary to render them formi-
dable. A train of artillery, as complete as can be con-
ceived of; a full supply of arms and ammunition ; and an
absolute command of the harbour of Boston, which puts
it in their power to furnish themselves with whatever they
shall think convenient by sea, are such advantages as must
render our contest with them in every view extremely diffi-
cult.

We suffer at present the greatest inconveniences from a
want of a sufficient quantity of powder ; without this every
attempt to defend ourselves or annoy our enemies, must
prove abortive. We have taken every step to avail our-
selves of this article, by drawing into our general maga-
zines whatever could be spared from the respective Towns
of this Colony ; but the frequent skirmishes we have had
have greatly diminished our stock, and we are now under
the most alarming apprehensions that, notwithstanding the
bravery of our troops, (whom we think we can, without
boasting, declare are ready to encounter every danger for
the preservation of the rights and liberties of America,)
we shall, barely for want of the means of defence, fall at
last a prey to our enemies.

We, therefore, most earnestly beseech you, that you
would warmly recommend it to the other Colonies, to
send whatever ammunition they can possibly spare forth-
with to our relief. The manner of recommending this
matter we submit to your superiour judgment ; we only
beg leave to suggest, that an immediate supply is of the
last importance to us, and that a discovery of our weak-
ness in this particular, before we receive assistance, may
be fatal, not to us only, but to the liberties of the whole
Continent ; whereas, with a full supply of arms and am-
munition, we might, with the common blessings of Provi-
dence, baffle the designs of our enemies, and be greatly
instrumental in bringing our present disputes to a happy
issue. We are your Honours' most obedient servants,

Art. Ward, General of the Massachusetts Forces.
Jos. Warren, Chairman of the Comm. of Safety.
Moses Gill, Chairman of the Comm. of Supplies.

P. S. We beg what powder you can possibly spare
may be immediately conveyed to us by land in the way
least liable to be suspected by any persons who may cor-
respond with the enemy.

MRS. BOWDOIN TO THE MASSACHUSETTS COMMITTEE Or
SAFETY.

Dorchester, June 4, 1775.

Gentlemen: Mr. Bowdoin has just received the enclosed
depositions, and being in a very weak state, desires me to
inform you, that for some time past the Falkland Sloop-of-

907

CORRESPONDENCE, PROCEEDINGS, he, JUNE, 1775.

908

War, commanded by Captain Linsey, has been cruising
about the islands called Elizabeth Islands, near Martha's
Vineyard. That the said sloop's boats have divers times
landed armed men on the said islands, who have abused
the inhabitants, stove their boats, and by force taken away
a considerable part of their property, as may more fully ap-
pear by the said depositions.

It is humbly apprehended if about one hundred armed
men were properly posted on the said islands, they would
be a sufficient force to defend the inhabitants, and protect
their stock of cattle and sheep, which is very considerable,
and which has hitherto every year furnished divers parts
of this Colony with fat sheep and cattle for provisions, and
particularly with a large quantity of wool for our home
manufacture.

I beg leave to make this representation that you may
take such measures as your wisdom shall dictate ; and am,
most respectfully, in Mr. Bowdoiii's behalf, who is part
owner of one of said islands, gentlemen, your most obedi-
ent humble servant, Elizabeth Bowdoin.

To the Honourable Committee of Safety.

DEPOSITIONS.

I, Elisha Nye, innholder, living on one of the Elizabeth
Islands, commonly called Naushan, and near to Tarpaulin
Cove, testifieth and sayeth, that some time about the fifth
of May the sloop-of-war called the Falkland, commanded
by Captain Linsey, came into the cove, and as soon as
the vessel had come to anchor, the Captain came on shore
with his boat's crew, all armed, and came to the house, and
said unto the deponent, You need not be scared; upon
which I told him it was enough to scare any body to see
so many men come on shore armed ; and the women are
all fled, and to where I knew not. Upon which Captain
Linsey told me to call them in, for he did not mean to
hurt any body ; upon which promise I and my family were
satisfied. Soon after, the Captain asked me to walk with
him, which I complied with, and in the course of the
walk he demanded to know what stock I had, and added,
to tell him right, for if I did not, he would take all that
he met ; upon which I gave him the account. Then the
Captain told me, (the deponent,) if I sold any one of them
he would take the remainder by force ; upon which 1 told
him if he were here when they were fit for market, he
might have them by paying the price I used to have. Soon
after which he went to Rhode-Island, and returned back
in a few days ; after which he used to pass and re-pass the
island almost every day, mostly in company with the Doc-
tor of the ship, leaving down the fence repeatedly, which
let the cattle often mix together, which 1 told the Doctor
was a great damage. The Doctor's answer was, then you
may put it up yourselves, for I will not ; and often talked
in an abusive, insulting manner, that he (the Doctor) would
soon take what lie wanted without any pay. On the twenty-
sixth instant a sloop came into the cove with about twenty
passengers — men, women, and children — in great distress for
provisions, and made application to me for supplies. Cap-
tain Linsey, knowipg that, (his boat having boarded her,)
sent his boat on shore and forbid me letting them have any.
Then I advised them to apply to Captain Linsey, and see
if they could not prevail upon him to let them have some.
Accordingly they went. Afterwards the Captain of the
sloop told me that he absolutely refused them, and said,
damn the dog that would let them have any, and if they
were not gone immediately they would sink them ; upon
which they set sail immediately without any supplies.

And further, the deponent declareth that the Doctor
came on shore, and said that the Captain's orders were that
I should go with him and destroy all the boats on the island.
I told him I could not go upon such business as that. He
said he would send me on board the ship if I did not go;
upon which I found I must comply, and accordingly went
with him, and saw him (the Doctor) stave three boats.
On the twenty-ninth, about eight o'clock in the evening,
he (the said Doctor) came on shore, and told me he had
come for my sheep ; upon which I told him they were out
in the pasture, and I could not get them into the pen, it be-
ing dark, but would fetch them in as early in the morning
as he pleased. The answer from the Doctor was, damn you,
what did you turn them out for ; the reason I told him was

that they had got out their own sheep, and did not say
any thing more about when they should want mine, and I
thought it best the sheep should be let out to feed. Upon
which the said Doctor said to me, Damn your eyes, go on
board the ship, and I'll see what they were turned out for.
I told him I would not, but would go and try to get the
sheep up ; well, damn you, make haste ; and swung his
sword over my head. But upon trial I found it so dark I
could not get them in ; but on my return was informed that
he (the Doctor) had sent on board for more help to carry
me and my brother on board the ship. Upon which, with
the abuses and threats I had received before, thought it
time to make my escape, which 1 did, to the main land, and
begged the assistance of the people, who readily came to
my assistance ; and .when I returned, which was about three
o'clock in the morning, some of my family told me they
had been ashore, armed, and had taken all my calves, be-
ing seven in number ; two of the poorest and smallest they
sent ashore in the morning, the others, with four sheep
they had some days before, they carried off without paying
any thing for them. And I do further declare the abuses
and threats I received from Captain Linsey and the Doctor
is the occasion of my moving off the island and leaving my
interest. And I declare that I never refused Captain Linsey,
or any other person belonging to a sloop-of-war, entertain-
ment in my house, or supply of provisions that I had on
my farm that I could spare. And I further declare, that on
the night of the twenty-ninth instant aforesaid, the Doctor,
as my wife informs me, came on shore and demanded my
gun with his sword in his hand, which she delivered to him,
and have not seen it since, though the only weapon of de-
fence that I had on the island. The value of the sheep,
calves, and gun, which they took from me, and the use of
my horse and well, are as follows, viz : —

Four sheep, value £2 16*.; three calves two months
old, value £3 6s.; four quarters of veal, weight sixty
pounds, sold before and delivered, 16s.; one gun, taken
out of my house by the Doctor of the ship, of great
value, £3 ; riding my horse, and use of my well, £3.

Elisha Nye.
Barnstable, ss., May 31, 1775:

Then the within and above named Elisha Nye made
oath to the within and above named deposition and account
as the truth, and by him subscribed. Before me,

Thos. Smith, Justice of the Peace.

We, the subscribers, testify and say, that on the 29th
day of May, 1775, Captain Linsey, commander of a ship-
of-war, then at Tarpaulin Cove, came with a number of
armed men and landed on one of the Elizabeth Islands,
called Reskatemeth, and came to the place where the men
that owned part of the stock on said island were shear-
ing their sheep, and demanded the sheep, saying and pro-
mising that he would pay for them, and give the full value
of the sheep, or words to that purpose ; but the owners of
said sheep told him that they were unwilling to part with
them, but if he would take them, they should not molest
him, as most of the owners of the sheep were of the people
called Quakers, and that they would not be concerned in
defending themselves or their interest by force of arms, but
would treat him with civility ; but said Captain, with his
men, took said sheep, and carried them away, some shorn,
and many not shorn. The sheep were hurried away in
such a manner that we could not take an account of the
numbers with exactness, but according to the best of our
judgment, the numbers and value of the sheep are as fol-
low, viz :

Took from Joseph Tucker and Sons ninety-three sheep,
value £68 8*., lawful money ; took from Jeremiah Robin-
son seventeen sheep, value £12 4*. \0d., lawful money;
took from William and Elisha Robinson twenty-four
sheep, value £14 8s., lawful money; took from Ebenezer
Meiggs seventy-two sheep, value £51 15s. 6d., lawful
money.

John Tucker, Elisha Robinson,

Jeremiah Robinson, Ebenezer Meiggs.

Barnstable, ss., May 31, 1775:

Then the above named Ebenezer Meiggs made oath to
the truth of the above written, by him subscribed, and the
above named John Tucker, Jeremiah Robinson, and Elisha

909

CORRESPONDENCE, PROCEEDINGS, &c, JUNE, 1775.

910

Robinson, being of the people called Quakers, affirmed to
the truth of the above written, by them subscribed.

Before me : Thomas Smith,

Justice of the Peace.

Daniel Egry, of Dartmouth, says, that last Sabbath, a
Whaleman went through Robinson's Hole into the Sound ;
just at the eastward lay three tenders, who fired upon the
schooner. The master then ordered the schooner about
again, and run into the Hole; all the people then left the
vessel, by the master's orders. The officer of a barge
then came on board, and snapped his pistol at the master,
which did not go off, though well primed, and all the rest
of the barge's crew cocked their pistols, but were ordered
by the officer not to fire. The people of the three tenders
swore they would have all the stock on the island, having
forced the tenants to give an inventory thereof, and intend-
ed to seize five vessels to carry them off, and pursued one
vessel which hove in sight. The name of the island is
Naushan, and owned by Mr. Bowdoin ; suppose there are
three thousand sheep on the island, and a large stock of
cattle. It is supposed they intended to rob the several
islands near, on which islands it is supposed there were
ten thousand sheep, beside cattle.

May 10, 1775.

which they were imported; in failure whereof no such
goods be permitted to be landed or sold within the limits
of this City and Liberties.

By order of the Committee for the City and Liberties
of Philadelphia. Jonathan B. Smith, Secretary.

POLITICAL OBSERVATIONS.

London, June 5, 1775.

In the course of animadversion upon our dispute with
America, the principle, " that wheresoever the supreme
power of legislation is vested, there also centres the supreme
power of taxation," has been (it is thought) fully proved
to the conviction of every unbiased reader; and, indeed,
the Americans themselves seem so thoroughly convinced
of it, as to have given up the distinction not only between
internal and external taxation, but also the difference be-
tween the legislative and taxing power ; well knowing that
they who can tax will rule, and those who can rule must
and will tax ; the act of taxation being an essential act of
dominion and sovereignty, without which no Government
can subsist, or maintain its authority.

The rebellious Americans depend upon their numbers
and distance from us ; but we hope they will be of but
little service to them, for there are other ways and means
of distressing them, besides our meeting them in the field.
Their wealth is the source of their rebellion ; and our Min-
istry have already wisely begun to reduce them to reason
by lessening it; and when they find themselves so blocked
up by sea that nothing can go to or come from them with-
out falling into our hands ; or, if that will not do, that their
vessels and properties are seized, and, if occasion requires,
their coasts plundered, their towns and ports reduced to
ashes, Sic., poverty and distress will by degrees break in
upon them ; and though they have got a great Army, they
will see their ruin daily approaching without being able
to prevent it. If, therefore, they still persist in their re-
bellion, contrary to their own interest, and contrary to all
the feelings of humanity for their fellow-subjects, but in a
more particular manner, contrary to the compassion they
ought to have for their wives and children, all the evils and
calamities that arise from it will, in the sight of God and
man, lie at their door ; and even the cries of the injured
orphan and widow, that will go up to Heaven upon that
account, will go up against them.

PHILADELPHIA COMMITTEE.

Committee Chamber, June 5, 1775.

Whereas, the business of this Committee has been much
obstructed and embarrassed by necessary inquiries into the
circumstances of Goods imported here from other Prov-
inces :

Resolved, therefore, That for the future, whenever goods
shall be imported into this Province from any of the neigh-
bouring Colonies, the importer do produce a certificate
from the Chairman of the Committee from whence such
goods are sent, signifying their importation within the rules
of the Congress, or do produce a qualification taken before
some Magistrate of the identity of such goods, of the
time of their importation into this Country, and vessel in

TO GENERAL BURGOYNE.

Philadelphia, June 5, 1775.

Permit me, Sir, though a stranger to your person, but
not wholly unacquainted with your character, to address
you on your arrival. Glad should I be to offer the lan-
guage of congratulation ; but the love of my Country for-
bids. Unhappy situation ! that virtue must restrain the
plaudits with which she hath been used to meet the accom-
plished Burgoyne.

With the manly openness of a soldier you have delivered
your sentiments in the Senate ; you have wished that the
bravery of every " military man" in America " may be
judged by the test of compassion ;" you have chosen " ar-
gument," if admitted to intercourse in America, " before
activity in the line of your profession." The precious op-
portunity that you desire is granted ; the fertile, the once
peaceful, the free shores of America have received you ; a
people delighting in freedom of inquiry, susceptible of the
force of solid argument, capable of refuting sophistry, would
gladly meet you on this first ground of your choice, with
candour enough to admire the copiousness of your elo-
quence, though possessed with too much judgment to mis-
take it for argument. We desire not to meet you reason-
ing "to the best of your power in the line of your profes-
sion," because the issues of war are dreadful and uncertain;
and though you have been victorious in a " cause" which
it was honourable " to fight for, to bleed, and to die for,"
yet in this, we apprehend, whether victor or vanquished,
you will " find" nothing but " sorrow and remorse."

When Chairman of the Select Committee on East In-
dia affairs, you declared, "that the most infamous designs
had been carried into execution by perfidy and murder;
that the East India Princes held their dignities on the pre-
carious condition of being the highest bribers ; and that no
claim could be admitted, however just on their part, with-
out being introduced by enormous sums of rupees. Your
noble nature started from the horrid scene ; the ghost of
Omichund could not have thus appalled you. And can
you, Sir, be instrumental to enslave and oppress, not effem-
inate East Indians, but the sons of Englishmen 1 Can
you imbrue your hands in brothers' blood, or stoop to the
infamous designs of perfidy ? Can you wish that claims
the most just should not be admitted, unless the fallacious
scheme of the treasury be adopted ? Forbid it every enno-
bling sentiment of the human breast ! No, Sir, satisfied
with the glorious laurels that adorned your brow, let the
peaceful olive twine around them ; so shall Britain and
America in future time bless the man who felt that
bravery and compassion were associate virtues.

A Pennsylvanian.

WILLIAM DUER TO NEW-YORK CONGRESS.

Fort Millar, June 5, 1775.

Sir : I esteem it a duty which I owe to the Province to
inform you that my apprehensions with respect to the
designs of the people in this County to stop the courts of
justice, were not ill founded. A party of the people on
the New- Hampshire Grants, strengthened by some persons
of desperate fortunes and bad characters in the western dis-
tricts, had formed a resolution of abolishing the law ; and to
effect their purpose, had actually marched on their way to
Fort Edioard. Yesterday fortnight I had intelligence of
their design, and by a lucky incident put a stop to their
proceedings, at least for the present.

Captain Mott, who is the bearer of this, was inarching
his company to join the forces at Ticonderoga. I men-
tioned to him the intelligence I had received, and applied
to him for his assistance. This gentleman coincided with
myself in opinion of the absolute necessity there was of
keeping up at least the shadow of order and justice, and
detained his company at Fort Edward in order to protect
the Bench. The riotous party getting information of this
unlocked for relief, desisted from their attempt.

911

CORRESPONDENCE, PROCEEDINGS, &c, JUNE, 1775.

912

As Captain Mutt is on his way to your Congress, I
esteem myself bound in gratitude to mention his alacrity
in supporting good order within our Province, not doubt-
ing but such B line of conduct will recommend him to your
attention. I have likewise to submit it again to your con-
sideration, whether it might not be proper for the Provin-
cial Congress to make publick their sentiments with respect
to the courts of justice. However daring many of the
people are in this County, I scarcely imagine they would
dare to counteract the avowed opinions of the Congress.
It is merely owing to chance, and Captain Mott's conduct,
that this last Court was not broke up ; and should this at-
tempt once succeed, it will not be an easy matter to restore
order amongst a people of so turbulent a spirit. Our
County will then be reduced to a worse dilemma than any
other. We shall not only have to oppose the incursions
of the enemy on the frontiers, but shall be torn to pieces
with intestine anarchy and confusion. I am conscious,
from the knowledge 1 have of your personal character, of
your aversion to such proceedings, and have therefore
thought it advisable to write to you on the subject. Your
interposition in this matter may save the spilling of blood
the next Court, for so long as I know it to be the sense of
the Country that the courts of justice should be support-
ed, and that I have the honour of sitting as one of the
Judges, I shall endeavour to keep them open even at the
risk of my life. I am, Sir, with respect, your obedient
humble servant, Wm. Duer.

To Peter Van Brugh Livingston, Esq., President of the
Provincial Congress at New- York.

COLONEL GUY JOHNSON TO THE COMMITTEE OF TKYON
COUNTY, NEW-YORK.

Thompson's, Cosby's Manor, Juno 5, 1775.

Gentlemen: I have received the paper signed Chris.
P. Yates, Chairman, on behalf of the Districts therein
mentioned, which I am now to answer, and shall do it
briefly, in the order you have stated matters. As to the
letter from some Indians to the Oneidas, 1 really knew
nothing of it till I heard such a thing had been by some
means obtained from an Indian messenger ; and from what
I have heard of its contents, I can't see any thing material
in it, or that could justify such idle apprehensions ; but I
must observe that these fears among the people were talked
of long before, and were, I fear, propagated by some mali-
cious persons for a bad purpose.

As to your political sentiments, on which you enter in
the next paragraph, I have no occasion to enter on them
or the merits of the cause. I desire to enjoy liberty of
conscience and the exercise of my own judgment, and that
all others should have the same privilege ; but, with regard
to your saying you might have postponed the affair, if
there had been the least kind of probability that the peti-
tion of the General Assembly would have been noticed
more than that of the Delegates, I must, as a true friend
to the Country, in which I have a large interest, say, that
the present dispute is viewed in different lights, according
to the education and principles of the parties affected ;
and that, however reasonable it may appear to a consider-
able number of honest men here, that the petition of the
Delegates should merit attention, it is not viewed in the
same light in a country which admits of no authority that
is not constitutionally established ; and 1 persuade myself
you have that reverence for His Majesty, that you will pay
due regard to the Royal assurance given in his speech to
Parliament, that whenever the American grievances should
be laid before him by their constitutional Assemblies, they
should be fully attended to. I have heard that compulsory
steps were taken to induce some persons to come into your
measures, and treasonable toasts drank ; but I am not willing
to give too easy credit to (lying reports, and am happy to
hear you disavow them.

I am glad to find my calling a Congress on the frontiers
gives satisfaction ; this was principally my design, though I
cannot sufficiently express my surprise at those who have,
either through malice or ignorance, misconstrued my in-
tentions, and supposed me capable of setting the Indians
on the peaceable inhabitants of this Country. The inte-
rest our family has in this Country and my own, is con-
siderable, and they have been its best benefactors ; any

malicious charges, therefore, to their prejudice, are highly
injurious, and ought to be totally suppressed.

The office I hold is greatly for the benefit and protec-
tion of this Country, and on my frequent meetings with the
Indians depends their peace and security ; I therefore can-
not but be astonished to find the endeavours made use of
to obstruct me in my duties, and the weakness of some
people in withholding many things from me, which are in-
disputably necessary for rendering the Indians contented ;
and I am willing to hope that you, gentlemen, will duly
consider this and discountenance the same.

\ ou have been much misinformed as to the origin of the
reports which obliged me to fortify my house and stand on
my defence. I had it, gentlemen, from undoubted authori-
ty from Albany, and since confirmed by letters from one
of the Committee at Philadelphia, that a large body of
men were to make me prisoner. As the effect this must
have on the Ltdians might have been of dangerous conse-
quences to you, (a circumstance not thought of,) I was
obliged, at great expense, to take these measures. But
the many reports of my stopping travellers were false in
every particular, and the only instance of detaining any
body was in the case of two New-England men, which I
explained fully to those of your body who brought your
letter, and wherein I acted strictly agreeable to law, and as
a magistrate should hare done.

I am very sorry that such idle and injurious reports meet
with any encouragement. I rely on you, gentlemen, to
exert yourselves in discountenancing them; and I am hap-
py in this opportunity of assuring the people of a Country
1 regard, that they have nothing to apprehend from my
endeavours, but that I shall always be glad to promote
their true interests.

I am, gentlemen, your humble servant,

G. Johnson.

extract or a letter to a gentleman in NEW-YORK,

DATED HARTFORD, CONNECTICUT, JUNE 5, 1775.

Mr. Hide, the Boston post, reports that a vessel bound
to London, on board of which Mr. Robert Temple, a high-
flying tory, was passenger, sprang a leak soon after her de-
parture, and put into Plymouth, (New-England,) to refit.
That the people took Temple prisoner, sent him to the camp
at Cambridge, secured his papers, and opened a great num-
ber of letters, many of which were from officers of the
Army at Boston. That those letters in general are full of
complaints and expressions of uneasiness. Some of the
officers desire and entreat to sell out, others say they are
fighting in a bad cause, and apprehensive of a mutiny ;
others mention a difference between the General and the
Admiral, and that the Army in general are disheartened and
uneasy ; other letters are full of invectives against the poor
Yankees, as they call us. We hear the Provincial Con-
gress will keep Temple as a hostage ; but I hope they will
let the vessel go with the above letters.

JAMES CURGENVEN TO GOVERNOUR TRUMBULL.

New-Haven, June 5, 1775.

Sir : I beg permission to acquaint your Honour that I
am appointed Collector of the Customs for the port of
New-Haven, vice Peter Harrison, Esquire, deceased; and
that on the second instant, when I arrived within your
Government, some people showed a great dislike to my
taking upon me the duty of my office. But by the inter-
position of several gentlemen concerned in trade, and my
informing them that I should wait on your Honour as soon
as I had recovered from the fatigues of the voyage, they
appeared to be satisfied.

I look on it a respect due to your Honour, that I should
satisfy you as to the legality of my appointment, as well as
necessary that I should take the oaths prescribed by law
previous to my entering upon the execution of my duty ;
but as my ill state of health will not admit of my taking a
journey at present, and as I have already taken the oath of
office before the Board of Customs, I hope this will be ad-
mitted as a sufficient apology. And some persons having
suggested that your Honour would refuse to administer the
oaths appointed to be taken by officers of the Crown in
similar cases with mine, I take the liberty to request that
your Honour will be pleased to inform me by a line, if you

913

CORRESPONDENCE, PROCEEDINGS, &c, JUNE, 1775.

914

have any objection to administer them. Your condescen-
sion herein will lay me under the most lasting obligations.

I am, with the greatest respect, Sir, your Honour's most
obedient and most humble servant,

James Cukgenven.

The Hon. Jonathan Trumbull, Esq., Governour of His
Majesty's Colony of Connecticut , &C, &£c, &c.

I, James Curgcnven, do sincerely promise and swear,
that I will be faithful, and bear true allegiance to His Ma-
jesty George the Third. So help me God.

1, James Curgcnven, do swear that I do, from my heart,
abhor, detest, and abjure, as impious and heretical, that
damnable doctrine and position that Princes, excommuni-
cated or deprived by the Pope or any authority of the See
of Rome, may be deposed or murdered by their subjects or
any other whatsoever. And I do declare that no foreign
prince, person, prelate, state, or potentate, hath, or ought
to have, any jurisdiction, power, superiority, pre-eminence,
or authority, ecclesiastical or spiritual, within the Realm of
Great Britain. So help me God.

I, James Curgcnven, do solemnly, in the presence of God,
profess, testify, and declare, that I do believe that in the
Sacraments of the Lord's Supper there is not any transub-
stantiation of the elements of bread and wine in the body
and blood of Christ, at or after the consecration thereof by
any person whatsoever, and that the invocation or adora-
tion of the Virgin Mary, or any other Saint, and the sacri-
fice of the Mass, as they are now used in the Church of
Rome, are superstitious and idolatrous. And I do solemn-
ly, in the presence of God, profess, testify, and declare,
that I do make this declaration, and every part thereof, in
the plain and ordinary sense of the words read unto me, as
they are commonly understood by English Protestants,
without any evasion, equivocation, or mental reservation
whatsoever, and without any dispensation already granted
me for this purpose by the Pope, or any authority or per-
son whatsoever, or without any hope of any such dispensa-
tion from any authority or person whatsoever, or without
thinking that I am or can be acquitted before God or
man, or absolved of this declaration, or any part thereof,
although the Pope or any other person or persons, or pow-
er whatsoever, should dispense with or annul the same, or
declare that it was null and void from the beginning.

I, James Curgenvm, do truly and sincerely acknowledge,
profess, testify, and declare, in my conscience, before God
and the world, that our sovereign Lord, King George, is law-
ful and rightful King of this Realm, and all other His Majes-
ty's Dominions and Countries thereunto belonging. And
I do solemnly declare, that I do believe, in my conscience,
that not any of the descendants of the person who pretend-
ed to be Prince of Wales during the life of the late King
James the Second, and since his decease, pretended to be,
and took upon himself the style and title of King of Eng-
land, by the name of James the Third, or of Scotland, by
the name of James the Eighth, or the style or title of King
of Great Britain, hath any right or title whatsoever to the
Crown of this Realm, or any other Dominions thereunto
belonging. And I do renounce, refuse, and abjure any
allegiance or obedience to any of them ; and I do swear
that I will bear faith and true allegiance to His Majesty
King George, and him will defend to the utmost of my
power against all traitorous conspiracies and attempts what-
soever, which shall be made against his person, crown, or
dignity. And I will do my utmost endeavour to disclose
and make known to His Majesty and his successor all trea-
sons and traitorous conspiracies which I shall know to be
against him or any of them. And 1 do faithfully promise,
to the utmost of ray power, to support, maintain, and de-
fend the succession of the Crown against the defendants
of the said James, and against all persons whatsoever,
which succession, by an Act intituled " An Act for the fur-
ther limitation of the Crown, and better securing the rights
and liberties of the Subjects," is and stands limited to the
Princess Sophia, Electoress and Dutchess Dowager of
Hanover, and the heirs of her body being Protestants.
And all these things I do plainly and sincerely acknowledge
and swear, according to these express words by me spoken,
according to the plain common sense and understanding of
the same words, without any equivocation, mental evasion,

or secret reservation whatsoever. And I do now make
this recognition, acknowledgment, abjuration, renunciation,
and promise, heartily, willingly, and truly, upon the true
faith of a Christian. So help me God.

June 9, 1775. James CuRGENVEN.

Camp Cambridgo, Juno 5, 1775.

The Petition of the subscribers, Soldiers in the Company
commanded by Captain Dkuky, humbly showeth :

That your petitioners, with the utmost concern, find
themselves shifted out of Colonel Nixen's Regiment into
that of Colonel Gardner's, contrary to our inclination, and
repugnant to the promise made us at our enlisting. We,
therefore, beg that your Excellency would be pleased to
continue us in the Regiment we engaged to serve in, and
not to be removed for the future only to serve the malevo-
lent disposition of our Captain; and, as in duty bound,
shall ever pray.

Windsor Stone, Brigham Eaton, David Waite,

Samuel Ordway, William Clark, George Gates,

Simon Stow, Simeon Rogers, Joseph Goynit,

Josiah Bent, Joseph Jennings, Benjamin Clark,

Francis Stow, Ebenezer James, Joseph Seaver,

Joseph Brown, Josiah Waite, Samuel Everdean,

Joseph Stow, Azariah Walker, Isaac Heminway,

Abijah Abbot, Amos Gates, Henry Gates,

John Stacy, Peter Sabin, Nehemiah Wright.

To his Excellency General Ward, &,c.

To the Colony Congress of the Massachusetts-Bay, in

New-England :
We, the subscribers, Captains in the Regiment whereof

James Scammon, Esq., is Colonel, humbly showeth :

That whereas there is no provision made for the money
that we, our subalterns, and soldiers, have advanced for
their support, from the time of enlistment to their arrival at
Cambridge, humbly pray, in behalf of ourselves, &tc, that
your Honours would, in your wisdom, contrive some way
that is most agreeable for their being refunded the several
sums they have advanced. And your petitioners, as in duty
bound, will ever pray, &c.

Philip Hubbard,

Jesse Dorman,

Joshua Bragdon,

Jeremiah Hill,

Tobias Fernald, Jun.,
Samuel Sayer,
Samuel Leighton,
Samuel Darby.

TOWN MEETING IN CONWAY, NEW-HAMPSHIRE. '

At a legal meeting held by the inhabitants of Conway,
on the fifth day of June, 1775, the following Votes were
passed :

Voted, That Col. Andrew McMutten, Capt. Timothy
Walker, Capt. David Page, Lieut. James Osgood, and
Ensign Joshua Heath, be a Committee at and in behalf of
the Town, in any matter respecting the present time of
difficulty.

Voted, That the Town will aid and assist the above
Committee that is chosen in behalf of the Town to pre-
serve the peace and order of it, whenever the Committee
shall judge occasion.

Voted, That this Committee be fully empowered to in-
quire touching any obnoxious person who may flee to this
Town for an asylum, and that they shall judge whether it
is expedient for any such refugee to reside here, or depart
from it ; and any inhabitant of this Town who shall be ob-
noxious, shall be only accountable to the Committee for
their conduct.

Voted, That no other person but the Committee shall
concern with any such refugees; but if any person shall
know of any such obnoxious person coming into Town, the
earliest notice thereof shall be given the Committee.

Voted, That the Committee be empowered to call be-
fore them, and upon proper evidence to pass upon any
inhabitants of the Town, who shall dare to transgress any
of the preceding Votes, or in any manner to disturb the
peace of the Town.

Voted, That the Committee shall make application to
the Congress of this Province for arms and ammunition that
are wanting in this Town, and for men for a scouting guard
for our safety. Richard Eastman, Town Clerk.

Fourth Series. — Vol. II.

58

915

CORRESPONDENCE, PROCEEDINGS, &c, JUNE, 177c

916

TO THE MINISTER.

London* June 6, 1775.

The sword of civil war is at last unsheathed. You are
astonished : for you believed those sagacious counsellors,
who assured you that the Americans were cowards. You
were persuaded that what you are pleased to call " firmness"
in the King, and "steadiness" in his Ministers, were alone
sufficient to stifle that thing called "liberty," which, having
fled from this island, took shelter in America. You find,
my Lord, you were deceived, and from that fatal hour in
which the hostile sword glittered in America, every ship
will bring fresh proof of your error. I know the Americans,
my Lord, better than any of your military informers. You
are deceived, abused, wretchedly abused, and you will find
your errour when it is too late. Just God ! I lose all pa-
tience when I recollect the incredible absurdity of your con-
duct ; the paltry; shallow, contemptible system of politicks,
by which every transaction of your Ministry hath been
governed. With regard to America, you have struggled
under an universal cloud of infatuation, and the arguments
of your treasury slaves in support of your tyranny are a
continued burlesque on argumentation. You have been
equally unlucky, my Lord, in your pensioned scribblers,
the two celebrated Doctors, who, unfortunately for your
Lordship, are, in truth, most scurvy politicians.

But, my Lord, I will, for the present, waive all other
matters of discussion, and confine myself to the topick of
the day. America, my Lord, America! You shudder at
the sound. 1 marvel not ; it will be your destruction. Your
present game, my Lord, depends entirely on your ability
to persuade the people of England that their fellow-subjects
in America are in a state of rebellion. The people of Eng-
land are less liable to mistake declamation for argument
than any people in Europe. The people of England know
that to resist illegal exertions of power is not rebellion. If
you, my Lord, have presumed to stretch the power of the
Crown, or of the Parliament, beyond its legal bounds, you
are a rebel to the People and a traitor to your Country.
You have dared to tax America, an unrepresented part of the
King's Dominions. That taxation and representation are
inseparable, is the avowed opinion of the first lawyer in the
Kingdom. It is not only an opinion, but a glaring axiom
of the Constitution ; and if you dare deny it, my Lord, I
thus publickly declare you an errant traitor to your Coun-
try. America is not represented, and therefore cannot be
taxed but by themselves ; and whatever may be your pre-
sent position, I pledge my credit with the publick, that I
will bring you or your advocates to acknowledge the truth
of this position. If, therefore, you have presumed to tax
America illegally ; if you have sent an Army to enforce
laws unconstitutionally enacted, the Americans are not in a
state of rebellion. On the contrary, they deserve our prayers
and assistance ; and you, my Lord, are the arch rebel
against whom all our vengeance should be directed. I am
unexpectedly interrupted, and I must therefore beg leave
to conclude myself, my Lord, yours, &c.

PROVINCIAL CONGRESS OF SOUTH CAROLINA.

Charlestown, Tuesday, June 6, 1775.

Resolved, That the following gentlemen, viz : Sir Ed-
mund Head, Bart., David Deas, Esq., Mr. John Fuller-
ton, Mr. John Wagner, Mr. Josiah Smith, Jr., Mr. Joseph
Dill, Robert Williams, Jr., Esq., Mr. Thomas Eveleigh,
John Scott, Esq., of Broad-street, Major William Savage,
Mr. Edward Lighiwood, Captain Alexander Gillon, Alex-
ander Rose, Esq., Mr. George Abbott Hall, Mr. Barnard
Beelcman, Captain Edward Blake, Doctor Peter Fayssoux,
Captain Simon Tufts, Captain John Scott, Mr. James Fa-
gartie, Mr. William Johnson, Mr. James Carsan, Joshua
Ward, Esq., Mr. Samuel Legare, Mr. Charles Johnston,
and Mr. John Horlbeck, be a Committee to receive the
signatures of all the inhabitants of Charlestown, to the As-
sociation entered into on the third instant, and signed on
the fourth by every member of this Congress. And that
it be recommended to them to complete the subscriptions
as speedily as possible, and make a return of the names of
such as decline to sign the said Association, to the General
Committee.

By order of the Congress :

Peter Timothy, Secretary.

CHESTER COUNTY (PENNSYLVANIA) COMMITTEE.

In Committee, Chester County, June G, 1775.

The Committee met pursuant to appointment, in the
Township of Charlestown, and proceeded to examine into
the charge lodged against William Moore, Esquire, setting
forth that he was inimical to the liberties of America, and
tbat he had expressed a design to oppose the present As-
sociation.

Mr. Moore being ill, was waited on by two of the Com-
mittee, with copies of the several charges exhibited against
him, to which, after due consideration, he returned the fol-
lowing answer, viz :

Gentlemen : I have read the different charges against
me, which have been laid before you, and am extremely
sorry for any unguarded expression therein contained that
may have dropped from me ; for believe me, I have no
interest but what is in America. I wish well to every
individual in it, and pray that its liberties may be preserved
to the latest times. I also further declare that I have of
late encouraged, and will continue to encourage, learning
the military art, apprehending the time is not far distant
when there may be occasion for it.

I hope, gentlemen, this will be satisfactory to you. I
am now an old man, and cannot possibly entertain a thought
but what is friendly to America, in which I am to leave
my family and all that is dear to me ; and the short time 1
have to live, I wish to seek peace with all men.

Witness my hand this 6th of June, 1775.

Wm. Mooke.

To Anthony Wayne, Esq., Chairman of the Committee of
Chester County.

On motion, Resolved, nem. con., That William Moore,
Esquire, has made a proper acknowledgment, and given a
satisfactory answer to this Committee : Therefore,

Ordered, That this proceeding be published, to the end
that Mr. Moore's person and property may remain free
from injury on account of any thing that has heretofore
been alleged against him respecting publick matters.

By order of the Committee :

Lewis Gronow, Secretary pro tern.

NEW-YORK CONGRESS TO GOVERNOUR TRUMBULL.

In Provincial Congress, New- York, June 6, 1775.

May it please your Honour : We take leave to en-
close a Resolution of the Grand Congress, of the 31st of
May, and at the same lime to present you our acknow-
ledgments for the letter which we had the honour to re-
ceive from you, dated the 29th.

Be assured, Sir, that we are most gratefully sensible of
the cheerfulness with which the Government of Connecticut
has exerted itself to support the important posts of Crown
Point and Ticonderoga, until our abilities may enable us
to execute that trust which the Continental Congress has,
on that subject, thought proper in the first instance to re-
pose in us.

In compliance with the requisitions made upon us, we
have expedited our orders for the several things contained
in the enclosed lists, at the bottom whereof are accounts of
the several articles already sent for that service, and the
persons employed in it.

We are sorry to present you with the very disagreeable
intelligence that we have not a sufficient quantity of powder
in this Colony to enable us at present to contribute in the
least towards supplying those forts with that article ; a cir-
cumstance which is the more distressing, as we have great
reason to believe that a considerable quantity will be re-
quired for the defence of the northern frontier.

We pray your Honour to believe that we feel the
utmost desire of co-operating with our sister Colonies in
executing the Resolves of the Congress, and that we are,
with great respect, your Honour's most obedient humble
servants.

Per order, and in behalf of the Provincial Congress :
P. V. B. Livingston, President.

To the Hon. Jonathan Trumbull, Governour of the Colony
of Connecticut.

917

CORRESPONDENCE, PROCEEDINGS, &c, JUNE, 1775.

918

FREDERICK WEISSENFELS AND OTHERS TO NEW-YORK
CONGRESS.

New. York, June 6, 1775.

Gentlemen : As we have ever been heartily attached
to the cause of our Country, so we are now ready to en-
gage in the defence of its rights ; and as we understand
Troops are soon to be raised in this Province, we think it
a duty incumbent on us to offer our service.

Should you think proper to confide in us, and appoint
us, respectively, to the command of a company, we shall
study to conduct ourselves in such a manner as to merit
your approbation.

We are, with the greatest respect, gentlemen, your most
humble servants,

Fredk. Weissenfels, Garret Roorback,

Marinus Willett, Jacobus Wynkoop,

Gershom Mott, James Alner,

John Johnson, John Qtjackenbos.

To the Honourable Provincial Congress of the Province of
New- York.

PIERPONT EDWARDS TO NEW-YORK CONGRESS.

New- York, June 6, 1775.

Sir: I am now on my way to Connecticut; shall there-
fore be much obliged to the Congress of this Province for
giving me the fullest information of the measures they have
adopted, that I may communicate them to the House of
Representatives of the Colony of Connecticut.

As it will be impossible for me to give them an accurate
account, relying merely on memory, I shall esteem it a fa-
vour to be furnished with attested copies of those parts of
the Minutes of the Congress which contain the most im-
portant Resolutions and Orders.

I intend to set out to-morrow morning, and shall esteem
myself happy in having an opportunity to execute any
commands that the Congress may have to the Eastward.

I am, Sir, your most obedient humble servant,

Pierpont Edwards.
Peter V. B. Livingston, Esquire.

KINGSTON, (ULSTER COUNTY, NEW-YORK,) COMMITTEE.

Kingston, June 6, 1775.

Gentlemen : Whereas, there is a dispute now subsist-
ing between me and you, gentlemen of the Committee of
this Town ; and considering that unanimity is necessary for
the preservation of our rights and liberties at this critical
juncture, the welfare of individuals, and for my own in-
terest in particular, I do most earnestly request, if it be
possible, that we may come to an amicable reconciliation,
by the following concessions :

First. That I am very sorry so great a misunderstand-
ing has so' long subsisted between us, respecting the dif-
ference in opinion of the Resolves of the Continental Con-
gress.

Secondly. I earnestly entreat that the gentlemen of the
Committee will forgive me all the offences and transgres-
sions, wherein I have offended and injured them in their
respective reputations or characters, either in their publick
or private capacities. Jacobus Low.

At a Meeting of the Committee of the Town of
Kingston, in Ulster County, on the sixth day of June,
1775:

It is hereby certified to all whom it may concern, that
Mr. Jacobus Low, of said Town of Kingston, personally-
appeared before us, and did make all such reasonable satis-
faction (by publick concession) as was required relative to
his former conduct. And we recommend to the publick,
that from henceforth he may again be received as a friend
to the liberties and privileges of British-America.

By order of the Committee :

Johannes Sleght, Chairman.

I am both disposed and willing to forgive all injuries
and damages which 1 have sustained in consequence of
divers advertisements. Jacobus Low.

CAPT. HENRY B. LIVINGSTON TO NEW-YORK CONGRESS.

Claremont, Juno 6, 1775.

Sir : Yesterday I received my warrant (which permits
me the liberty I now take) from Captain Shelden, a mem-
ber of the Committee appointed for Dutchess County. It
was not without surprise I received a commission inferiour
to that I have been honoured with. But the reflection,
that the Congress will undoubtedly supply places of higher
rank with more experienced officers, soon rid me of the
disagreeable sensations my degradation had excited, and
determined me to accept of the commission offered, with a
fixed resolution to be as useful to my Country as the sta-
tion I am placed in will allow me. I have this day en-
listed ten men, and have provided quarters and provisions
for my whole complement, at the rate of eight shillings
per week for each' man. The men I have enlisted bear
good characters, and to appearance are healthy, lively, and
of robust constitutions ; proper persons will be appointed
to inspect them by Saturday next. Few of them will
be able to furnish shoes, stockings, arms, &tc. You
will infinitely oblige me if you would lay this matter be-
fore the Congress, and use your endeavours to get arms
sent to us as expeditiously as possible, as the disciplining
them will be much retarded for want of them. I can en-
list many who have those necessaries, but this will take up
more time, and perhaps hinder me from getting men so fit
for action as those I now have A fifer, I believe, cannot
be found in this part of the Country; a drummer I have
engaged. The rest of my task shall, with all diligence,
be performed. Sir, your most obedient humble servant,

Henry B. Livingston.

To Peter V. B. Livingston, Esquire, President of the
Provincial Congress of New-York.

CUMBERLAND COUNTY (nEW-YORk) COMMITTEE.

At a full meeting of the Delegates from the several
Towns in the County of Cumberland, Colony of New-
York, convened at Westminster, June 6, 1775 :

The County of Cumberland having received certain in-
telligence from Mr. Isaac Low, Chairman of the Commit-
tee of Correspondence at New-York, that it is the desire
of the said respectable Committee of Correspondence at
New- York, that the sense of the people in said County of
Cumberland should be fully known with regard to the hos-
tile measures that are using by the British Parliament to
enforce the late cruel, unjust, and oppressive Acts of the
said British Parliament, through the British Colonies in
America : We, the Delegates from the several Towns and
Districts in said County of Cumberland, being chosen by
the freeholders and inhabitants of the same, to exhibit to
the Provincial Congress the sense and voice of the people
with regard to the unjust proceedings of the British Par-
liament, Sic, do pass the following Resolves :

1. Resolved, nem.con., That the late Acts of the Bri-
tish Parliament, passed in order to raise a revenue in
America, are unjust, illegal, and diametrically opposite to
the Bill of Rights, and a fundamental principle of the Bri-
tish Constitution, which is, " that no person shall have his
property taken from him without his consent."

2. Resolved, nem. con., That we will resist and oppose
the said Acts of Parliament, in conjunction with our breth-
ren in America, at the expense of our lives and fortunes,
to the last extremity, if our duty to God and our Country
require the same.

3. Resolved, nem. con., That we think it needless to
pass many resolves exhibiting our sentiments with regard
to the unhappy controversy subsisting between Great Bri-
tain and America. Let it suffice, therefore, that we fully
acquiesce with what our brethren have lately done at New-
York, in their late Association ; and it is hereby resolved
that the late Association entered into at New- York is per-
fectly agreeable to the sentiments of the freeholders and
inhabitants of this County, and that they fully acquiesce in
the same.

4. Resolved, nem. con., That this County is at present
in a very broken situation with regard to the civil authority.
We therefore sincerely desire that the advice of the hon-
ourable Congress may be by our Delegates transmitted to
us, whereby some order and regularity may be established

919

CORRESPONDENCE, PROCEEDINGS, &c, JUNE, 1775.

920

among us. We therefore should take it as a favour if the
honourable Congress would particularly recommend to us
in this County some measures to be pursued by us the in-
habitants of the same ; for we are persuaded their advice
herein would have great weight to influence our people uni-
versally to pursue such measures as would tend to the peace,
safety, and good order of this County for the future.

5. Resolved, ncm. con., That we, the inhabitants of this
County, are at present in an extremely defenceless state
with regard to arms and ammunition. We sincerely desire
the honourable Provincial Congress would consider us in
this respect, and from their generosity and goodness would
do what in them lies for our relief in the premises. We
have many brave soldiers, but, unhappily for us, wc have
nothing to fight with.

6. Resolved, nem. con., That in pursuance of the Hon-
ourable Isaac Low's (Chairman of the Committee of Cor-
respondence) request for this County to send Delegates to
the City of New-York, in order to ascertain the sentiments
of the people in the County concerning the unconstitu-
tional measures lately adopted by the British Parliament
against the Americans in general, and some other matters,
and so forth, we do hereby vote and resolve, that Colonel
John Hazeltine, Doctor Paul Spooner, and William Wil-
liams, Esquire, be our Delegates to meet and join the other
respectable Delegates convened at New-York, to represent
the affairs of this County in said Congress, at the City of
New-York. John Hazeltine,

Chairman of the County of Cumberland Congress
and Committee of Correspondence.

JAMES EASTON TO THE MASSACHUSETTS CONGBESS.

Crown Point, June 6, 1775.

Respectable Gentlemen : It is of the utmost impor-
tance to the United Colonies to cultivate harmony and
friendship with the Canadians and their Indians. I have
painfully exerted myself to procure and secure it. Have
sent you a copy of a letter Colonel Allen and myself
wrote to the Canadians. It appears to me of importance
that your Honours should be acquainted with the state of
policy and of facts. You will discern by perusing the en-
closed, that a party of Canadians made an attack upon our
reconnoitring party. Since that, Mr. Ferris, an inhabitant
of the New-Hampshire Giants, has been at Montreal, and
returned to this place. He is a man I can confide in, and
informs that Saint LukeLaCorne, who acted many barbari-
ties towards our people last war, (for which he was saint-
ed,) has been using his utmost influence to excite the Cana-
dians and Indians to take part in the war against the United
Colonies, and that he and Captain McCoy, who command-
ed the Canadians' attack, have made but little proficiency.
Most of the said party of Canadians were appointed offi-
cers, but could procure but very few soldiers, and not one
Indian. Saint Luke advises that some in every Parish be
immediately executed, except they will join the King's
Troops. There are lately come to St John's near two
hundred Regulars, and joined Captain McCoy's party of
about fifty Canadians, who have been mentioned as assail-
ants on the reconnoitring party ; they are there fortifying.
I still retain my sentiments, that policy demands that
the Colonies advance an Army of two or three thousand
men into Canada and environ Montreal. This wilt inevi-
tably fix and confirm the Canadians and Indians in our
interest. Nothing gives me so much concern, as the mis-
taken policy in our worthy Congresses and Assemblies,
who, for want of the real knowledge of certain facts, ima-
gine that to push an Army thither would offend the Cana-
dians, and incense them against the Colonies. The armed
vessels are advanced to the north part of the lake to com-
mand it, and consequently to guard the frontier settlements
thereon.

We hear that Colonel Ilinman is appointed Commander-
in-Chief of this department, and is marching hither with a
thousand men. This is joyful tidings to us; we hope it
will prove true ; for we cannot long conduct our Army,
without it be regularly organized with officers, and under
pay. 1 am, gentlemen, your most obedient humble ser-
vant, James Easton.
To the Hon. Provincial Congress, Committee of Safety,
or the Council of War, at Watertoun and Cambridge.

stamford (Connecticut) committee.

Stamford, Juno 6, 1775.

At a meeting of the Committee of Observation for the
Town of Stamford, held in said Stamford on Tuesday, the
6th day of June, 1775, personally appeared Siliamu
Whitney, of said Stamford, before said Committee, and
made the following confession : Whereupon, the Commit-
tee passed sentence against him, agreeable to the direction
of the Continental Congress. His punishment being greater
than he was able to bear, he requested the liberty to ad-
vertise himself, and offering to deliver up the unfortunate
Tea to be burnt, the Committee were of opinion that it
would satisfy the pubiick, who are requested to accept of
the following concession as a satisfaction for his crime.

By order of the Committee :

John Hait, Jun., Clerk.

TO THE PUBLICK.

Whereas I, the subscriber, have been guilty of buying
and selling Bohea Tea, since the first of March last past,
whereby I have been guilty of a breach of the Association
entered into by the Continental Congress ; and sensible of
my misconduct, do, in this pubiick manner, confess my
crime, and humbly request the favour of the pubiick to
overlook this my transgression, promising for the future to
conduct myself as a true friend to my Country. And in
testimony of my sincerity, I do now deliver up the whole
of the Tea I have on hand unto the said Committee of In-
spection, to be by them committed to the flames.

Silvanus Whitney.

A short Narrative of the execution of the unfortunate
Tea above-mentioned.

About eight o'clock in the evening, a gallows was erect-
ed in the middle of the street opposite Mr. Weed's tavern ;
a large concourse of people soon collected, and were joined
by a number of the soldiery quartered in the Town. A
grand procession soon began to move. In the first place,
a large guard under arms, headed by two Captains, who
lead the van, with the unfortunate Tea hung across a pole,
sustained by two unarmed soldiers. Secondly, followed
the Committee of Observation. Thirdly, the spectators
who came to see the great sight. And after parading
through part of the principal streets, with drums beating
and fifes playing a most doleful sound, they came to the
gallows, where the common hangman soon performed his
office, to the general satisfaction of the spectators. As it
was thought dangerous to let the said Tea hang all night,
for fear of an invasion from our Tea-lovers, a large bonfire
was made under it, which soon reduced it to ashes ; and,
after giving three loud huzzas, the people soon dispersed
to their respective homes, without any bad consequences
attending.

The owner of the aforesaid Tea attended during the ex-
ecution, and behaved himself as well as could be expected
on the occasion.

EXCHANGE OF PRISONERS.

Cambridge, New-England, Juno 6, 1775.

This being the day agreed on for the exchange of Pri-
soners, between twelve and one o'clock Doctor Warren
and Brigadier General Putnam, in a phaeton, together with
Major Dunbar and Lieutenant Hamilton, of the Sixty-
Fourth, on horseback, Lieutenant Potter, of the Marines,
in a chaise, John Hilton, of the Forty-Seventh, Alex-
ander Campbell, of the Fourth, John Tync, Samuel
Marcy, Thomas Parry, and Thomas Sharp, of the Ma-
rines, wounded men, in two carts, the whole escorted
by the Weathersficld Company, under the command of
Captain Chester, entered the Town of Charlestons, and
marching slowly through it, halted at the ferry, where,
upon a signal being given, Major Moncrief landed from
the Lively, in order to receive the prisoners, and see his
old friend, General Putnam. Their meeting was truly
cordial and affectionate. The wounded privates were soon
sent on board the Lively ; but Major Moncrief and the
other officers returned with General Putnam and Doctor
Warren, to the house of Doctor Foster, where an enter-
tainment was provided for them.

921

CORRESPONDENCE, PROCEEDINGS, kc, JUNE, 1775.

922

About three o'clock a signal was made by the Lively,
that they were ready to deliver up our prisoners ; upon
which, General Putnam and Major Moncrief went to the
ferry, where they received Messrs. John Peck, James
Heiccs, James Braver, and Daniel Preston, of Boston,
Messrs. Samuel Frost and Seth Russell, of Cambridge, Mr.
Joseph Bell, of Danvers, Mr. Elijah Seavcr, of Roxbury,
and Casar Augustus, a negro servant to Mr. Tileston, of
Dorchester, who were conducted to the house of Captain
Foster, and there refreshed ; after which the General and
Major returned to their company, and spent an hour or two
in a very agreeable manner. Between five and six o'clock,
Major Moncrief, with the officers that hail been delivered
to him, were conducted to the ferry, where the Lively' I
barge received them. After which, General Putnam, with
the prisoners that had been delivered to him, fcc, returned
to Cambridge, escorted in the same manner as before. The
whole was conducted with the utmost decency and good
humour, and the lYcathcrsficld Company did honour to
themselves, their officers, and their Country. The regu-
lar officers expressed themselves as highly pleased. Those
who had been prisoners acknowledged the genteel, kind
treatment they had received from their captors. The
privates, who were all wounded men, expressed, in the
strongest terms, their grateful sense of the tenderness which
had been shewn them in their miserable situation ; some of
them could do it only by their tears. It would have been
to the honour of the British arms, if the prisoners taken
from us could, with justice, have made the same acknow-
ledgment. It cannot be supposed that any officers of rank,
or common humanity, were knowing to the repeated cruel
insults that were offered to them ; but it may not be amiss
to hint to the upstarts concerned, two truths, of which they
seem to be totally ignorant, viz : that compassion is as essen-
tial a part of the character of a truly brave man as daring;
and that insult offered to a person entirely in the power of
the insulter, smells as strongly of cowardice as it does of
cruelty.

from the following Provinces, from the first of January,
1775, to the twenty-seventh of April last.

DECLARATION OF JOHN PKENTTCE.

Londonderry, N. H., Juno G, 1775.

Whereas I, the subscriber, was so unfortunate some time
since as to sign an address to the late Governour Hutchin-
son, so universally and so justly deemed an enemy to Ame-
rican liberty and freedom, I hereby, in this publick manner
declare, that at the time I signed the said address, I intended
the good of my Country and that only; but finding, to my
sorrow, it had not that but quite a contrary effect, I hereby
renounce the same address in every part, and hope my in-
jured and affronted fellow-countrymen will overlook my
past misconduct, as I am ready to assist them in their strug-
gles for liberty and freedom, in whatever way I shall be
called upon by thera. John Prentice.

King's Arms Tarorn, Cornhill, London, Juno 7, 1775.

At a special meeting this day of several members of the
Constitutional Society, during an adjournment, a gentleman
proposed that a subscription should be immediately entered
into by such of the members present who might approve
the purpose, for raising the sum of one hundred Pounds,
to be applied to the relief of the widows, orphans, and
aged parents of our beloved American fellow-subjects, who,
faithful to the character of Englishmen, preferring death to
slavery, were, for that reason only, inhumanly murdered by
the King's Troops at or near Lexington and Concord, in
the Province of MassacJiusetts-Bay, on the nineteenth of
last April.

Which sum beiDg immediately collected, it was there-
upon

Resolved, That Mr. Home do pay to-morrow, into the
hands of Messrs. Brownes and Collison, on the account of
Doctor Franklin, the said sum of one hundred Pounds,
and that Doctor Franlclin be requested to apply the same
to the above mentioned purpose.

Barrels of Flour.

From New-York, - 5,523

" Maryland, - 7,594

" Philadelphia, - 8,045

" Virginia, - - 1,252

Bushels of Wheat.
71,122
91,888
35,967
42,155

22,414

241,812

Suppose five bushels of wheat goes to a barrel of flour,
which being added to the sum total of the wheat, makes
353,882 bushels, which is the produce of 17,694 acres, at
twenty bushels per acre ; and the value of the same, at
five sh'rllings per bushel, amounts to £88,470 10s. The
bread, rye, rice, and Indian corn, are omitted, and likewise
wheat, barley, and oats, imported from Holland, Germany,
and Ireland, at Bristol.

During the abovesaid period, twenty ships were cleared
out from Bristol for North America, with nothing but bal-
last, viz:

For New- York, - - 7 Virginia, - - 3

" Maryland, - - 3 South Carolina, 3

" Philadelphia, - 3 North Carolina, 1

N. B. The quantity of American provisions imported at
Bristol, is scarce a fourth of what js imported at London,
Liverpool, Lancaster, and throughout the other parts of
England; and therefore when the Non-Exportation Agree-
ment from America takes place, with the present scarcity
and almost dearth of our own corn this year, a famine may
be dreaded before next spring, if the present American
disputes are not previously settled.

London, Juno 7, 1775.

A commercial correspondent has obliged us with the
several quantities of wheat and flour imported at Bristol

Charlestown, South-Carolina, June 8, 1775.

The Association signed by the Provincial Congress, and
recommended by them as a proper instrument to be subscri-
bed to at this juncture by persons of all persuasions, was, in
a few days, with the greatest avidity and cheerfulness, sign-
ed also by almost every man in this Town ; in short, such
is here the spirit for liberty and freedom, that of the very-
few who objected, there were only two who were hardy
enough to ridicule, or treat it with contempt, viz : Laughlin
Martin and John Dealcy, on which account they drew on
themselves the resentment of the populace. Yesterday they
were carted through the principal streets of this Town, in
complete suits of tar and feathers. The very indecent and
daring behaviour of the two culprits in several instances, oc-
casioned their being made publick spectacles of. After hav-
ing been exhibited for about half an hour, and having made
many acknowledgments of their crime, they were conducted
home, cleaned, and quietly put on board of Captain Las-
ley's ship, lying wind-bound for Bristol. We hear that,
upon the intercession of Martin's friends, and his repeated
promises of future good behaviour, he is allowed to come
on shore and follow his business as usual.

To the Honourable Members of the Committee of Corres-
pondence at Charlestown, the humble Petition of Mi-
chael Hubart showeth :

That upon the second day of June, your petitioner be-
ing in the house of Thomas Nicoll, in King-street, a certain
James Dealcy came in, and said there was good news come
to Town. Being asked what it was, he answered that a
number of arms was sent over to be distributed amongst the
Negroes, Roman Catholicks, and Indians. Upon which
your petitioner replied, he thought it was very bad news
that Roman Catholicks and savages should be permitted to
join and massacre christians. Upon which Dealcy struck
his breast, and swore " he was a Roman Catholick, and that
he had arms, and would get arms, and use them as he
pleased." Your petitioner went home to his house, and
shortly after came in said Dealey and a certain Laughlin
Martin, and A. Reed.

After silting down a little, Laughlin Martin arose and
said, " So, Mr. Hubart, you'll not allow Roman Catholicks
to carry guns." Your petitioner answered that his circum-
stances were too small to forbid any party or sect to carry

923

CORRESPONDENCE, PROCEEDINGS, he, JUNE, 1775.

921

arms. Martin then damned your petitioner for a false-faced
villain, and declared he would believe Dtaley sooner than
me ; at the same time ordered said Dtaley to drag your
petitioner out of the house and pull him to pieces, at the
same time standing with a drawn cutteau in his hand, swear-
ing if he did not, that he (Martin) would have blood him-
self. Dealey then dragged your petitioner into a shop in
front of the house, holding him by the throat, until released
by the aforesaid Reed. But, upon being released, said
Martin came up with his cutteau drawn, threatening to put
your petitioner to immediate death, when your petitioner,
falling upon his knees, begged his life ; your petitioners'
wife and children begging at the same time to spare the life
of their father and husband. Your petitioner then arose
and went into the next room, but was still followed by Mar-
tin, who vowed to God if your petitioner did not beg pardon
of Dealey, he would that instant cut off his head. Upon
which your petitioner, to save his life, did ask his (Dealey's)
pardon.

Martin then declared he was a Roman Catholick, and
vowed to God to cut off the head of any person who said
he should not carry arms. After which said Martin called
for some drink, and drank of it with Dealey and Reed ; and
one of his toasts was, " Damnation to the Committee and
their ■proceedings."

Your petitioner has prosecuted them as the law directs ;
but as the times appear to be very troublesome, and num-
bers of enemies both to the Protestant interest and the pre-
sent cause are lurking amongst us, your petitioner hopes
that you will inquire into such parts of the transaction as
concerns the publick ; and your petitioner, as in duty bound,
shall ever pray. Michael Hubart.

Secret — tar and feather him.

Passed the Secret Committee and ordered to be put in
execution.

On the back of the petition is written, in the real hand-
writing of William Henry Drayton, the Chairman of the
Secret Committee, the following, viz : Locklin Martin.*
James Dealey.f§

* To land and be discharged, upon his expressing his contrition in the
most publick manner.

t Send away.

§ During the events which took place about this time, and of which
mention has been made, it is of some consequence to observe, that in
the course of June of this year, Laughlin Martin and James Dealey,
having behaved in a very improper manner respecting the General Com-
mittee and thoir proceedings, as well as respecting the Association ;
and having threatened Michael Hubart with death, unless he begged
their pardon for having justified the conduct of the Committee, he sent
a petition, respecting the affair, to the Committee of Correspondence
of Charlestown. This Committee immediately transferred it to the Se-
cret Committee of five, who having considered the same, ordered both
Martin and Dealey to be tarred and feathered. || The order was promptly
put in execution by suitable agents, and they were both stripped of their
clothes, tarred, feathered, and cartod through the streets of Charlestown,
affording the first instance of such a spectacle in this Colony. This
being done, the Secret Committee sent them on board a ship ready to
sail for England; Laughlin Martin was, however, permitted to land
again, and was discharged, on expressing his contrition in a publick
manner, but James Dealey, for an example, was sent away. These
summary measures have been supposed by writers to have proceeded
from the intemperate zeal of the populace, and there can be no doubt
but many of them took their rise from that source ; but there can be
as little doubt this first commencement of so ludicrous and disgraceful
a punishment owed its origin in South-Carolina to this very case. And
that it was sanctioned and directed by the Secret Committee is equally
olear, as the case is specially noted in the manuscript of William Henry
Drayton, who was Chairman of that Committee, as having been done
by the sanction of the same, and the original petition of Hubart, with
the orders of the Secret Committee thereon, one of them in the known
hand-writing of the Chairman, Mr. Drayton, is now in the possession
of the writer of these Memoirs. We need go no farther for authority
to show what vast power and confidence were lodged in this Secret
Committee of five, and particularly in the abilities, prudence, and enter-
prise of its leading members, William Henry Drayton, Arthur Middle,
ton, and Charles Cotesworth Pinckney. And had the revolution not
taken place, but colonial affairs had settled down in a rebellion, there
can be no doubt but these distinguished patriots would have been marked
out as early victims to private persecution and British vengeance. For
tho councils of this Committee were not paralyzod by timid opposition,
as often happoned in tho Provincial Congress, Council of Safety, and
General Committee. It was only necessary that the emergency should
arise, calling on the Committee to act, for them to direct the blow, and
it often fell before the cause of it could have been surmised. Hence
the lead and tone which this Secret Committee gave to publick opinion
and to publick operations, was great and decisive, and they much tended
to concentrate the publick energies into a firm and manly opposition. —
Drayton.

D The British FortT-Seventh Regiment, under the command of Lieutenant-Colonel
Jfetbit, commenced this singular punishim-nl on one of the inhabitant* of the Town of
Wtlrricn, in the State of Matsachutctli, on the eighth of March, 1775. See the London
Rentcmbrancer for 1775, page 62.

EXTRACT OF A LETTER TO A GENTLEMAN IN NEW-YORK,
DATED NORTH-CAROLINA, JUNE 7, 1775.

We are much alarmed here with the intentions of Ad-
ministration ; and unless affairs take a turn in our favour
very shortly, we shall expect the worst effort of its villany,
that of spiriting up an enemy among ourselves, from whose
barbarity, if roused, the most dreadful consequences will
follow. Our Governour has sent his family to New-York,
and being greatly disgusted with the people of Newbern,
has taken up his residence in Fort Johnston, at the mouth
of Cape Fear River, which he has chosen as a place
of retreat from popular complaints. Our brethren in the
Colonies may be assured that we never shall be bribed, by
the bene6t of an exclusive trade, to desert the common
cause.

WORCESTER COUNTY (MARYLAND) COMMITTEE.

At a meeting of a great majority of the Committee of
Worcester County, at the Court-House, at Snow Hill
Town, on Wednesday, the 7th June, 1775 :

Benton Harris, Esquire, in the Chair.

1st. Resolved unanimously, That we owe and acknow-
ledge most faithful and perfect duty and allegiance to His
Majesty King George the Third, rightful King of Great
Britain, Sic; that we are actuated by the most loyal and
sincere attachment to his person, the most fervent zeal
for the support of his Crown and dignity ; and that, when
constitutionally required, we are ready to expend our lives
and fortunes in his service.

2d. Resolved unanimously, That we feel ourselves bound
by the strongest ties of love and affection to our fellow-
subjects in the Mother Country, and that we most ardently
wish for a speedy, cordial, and permanent reconciliation
and union with them ; but we do further resolve, that we
will, to the utmost of our power, oppose the detested min-
isterial plan for enslaving us — a plan calculated to divest us
of every privilege which can render life valuable or desir-
able ; that we are incontestably entitled to all the rights and
liberties of Englishmen ; that, as we received them from
our glorious ancestors without spot or blemish, we are de-
termined to transmit them pure and unsullied to our pos-
terity.

3d. Resolved unanimously, That we will, from time to
time, as often as shall be found necessary, contribute cheer-
fully for the support and relief of our distressed brethren
in the Province of Massachusetts-Bay, now actually expe-
riencing the fullest extent of ministerial vengeance and
tyranny, and groaning under the horrours of war, in defence
of their and our common rights and liberties.

The following Letter from Mr. Dixon Quintan, an inha-
bitant of this County, relative to a quantity of Salt im-
ported contrary to the Resolves of the Continental Con-
gress, was produced and read, to wit :
5 r " June 1st, 1775.

" Sir: I have bought forty bushels of Liverpool Salt, at
two shillings per bushel ; and if you have occasion for any,
you may have it as I bought. Please to write me a line
whether you will take any or no, that I may dispose of it
to other people. From your humble servant,

" Dixon Quinton."
" To Mr. James Houston, this."

Likewise Mr. Thomas Lambden, an inhabitant of this
County, and crier of said County Court, being called
before the Committee, and full proof being made that he
had declared " all those who took up arms, or exercised
agreeable to the Resolves of the Provincial Convention at
Annapolis, to be rebels," and that, in conversation relative
to a quantity of Salt being thrown into the water by the
Baltimore Committee, the said Thomas Lambden had de-
clared, " that the Committee were a parcel of damn'd ras-
cals, and would not be easy until some of them were
hanged up ;" and further, that in conversation relative to a
report that the Ships and Troops were about to be recalled
from Boston, the said Thomas Lambden had declared,
" that he should be very sorry they should be withdrawn,
until the Bostonians were fully humbled :"

925

CORRESPONDENCE, PROCEEDINGS, &c, JUNE, 1775.

926

It is, therefore, unanimously Resolved, That we hold the
said Dixon Qyinton and Thomas Lambden to be ene-
mies to their Country ; that we are determined immediate-
ly to break off all dealings and intercourse with them, and
with every person who shall have any connexion with them,
or either of them ; and do recommend to every attorney of
this Province not to bring or prosecute any action at law,
nor to appear or plead for them, or either of them, on any
trial, until they shall make such proper acknowledgments,
and show such genuine marks of repentance and reforma-
tion as shall be satisfactory to a majority of this Commit-
tee.

Resolved, That these proceedings be immediately print-
ed in the Maryland Gazette.

A true copy from the Minutes :

Test : Robert Dennis, Cleric.

DELAWARE ASSEMHLY.

Monday, June 5, 1775.

The House met, pursuant to their adjournment, and ad-
journed till ten o'clock, on Wednesday , A. M.

Wednesday, June 7, 1775, A. M.

The House met, pursuant to their adjournment, and the
Speaker assumed the Chair.

The Speaker informed the House that, during the recess
of this House, he had received a Letter from the Speaker
of the House of Assembly at New-York, enclosing a List
of Grievances, with the Resolutions of the House in con-
sequence thereof; also, a Petition to the King, a Memorial
to the House of Lords, and a Representation and Remon-
strance to the Commons of Great Britain, which he now
laid before the House.

On motion, by order,

The same were read, and ordered to be filed among the
Records of this House.

The House being informed by the Delegates appointed
to represent this Colony in the Grand Continental Congress
now held at Philadelphia, in the Province of Pennsylva-
nia, that the said Congress are unanimously of opinion,
that it is absolutely necessary, for the preservation of the
lives, liberties, and properties of the good people of the
twelve United Colonies, and of the Parish of St. John's,
in Georgia, to have an armed force, at their general ex-
pense, sufficient for repelling and defeating all hostile at-
tempts by arms to deprive them of the same, took the same
into their most serious consideration, and unanimously ap-
proved thereof.

Resolved, nemine contradicente, That the inhabitants of
this Government be chargeable and charged with their
quota or share of said expense, to be ascertained by the
Congress, and that this House will provide the same by all
ways and means in their power.

Resolved, nemine contradicente, That the sum of Five
Hundred Pounds be drawn for by the Speaker, upon the
Trustees of the several Loan Offices of this Government,
according to the Proportion Act, to be paid to Mr. Speaker,
Thomas McKean, and George Read, Esquires, towards
the share of this Colony of the expense aforesaid ; and that
the same be hereafter replaced in the said Offices by the
Assembly.

Then the House adjourned till the twenty-first day of
August next.

GENERAL LEE TO GENERAL BURGOYNE IN BOSTON.

Philadelphia, June 7, 1775.

My pear Sir: We have had twenty different accounts
of your arrival at Boston, which have been regularly con-
tradicted the next morning ; but as 1 now find it certain
that you are arrived, I shall not delay a single instant ad-
dressing myself to you ; it is a duty I owe to the friend-
ship I have long and sincerely professed for you ; a friend-
ship to which you have the strongest claims from the first
moments of our acquaintance. There is no man from
whom I have received so many testimonies of esteem and
affection ; there is no man whose esteem and affection could,
in my opinion, have done me greater honour. I entreat and
conjure you, therefore, my dear Sir, to impute these lines not
to a petulant itch of scribbling, but to the most unfeigned

solicitude for the future tranquillity of your mind, and for
your reputation. 1 sincerely lament the infatuation of the
times, when men of such a stamp as Mr. Burgoyne and
Mr. Howe can be seduced into so impious and nefarious a
service by the artifice of a wicked and insidious Court and
Cabinet. You, Sir, must be sensible that these epithets
are not unjustly severe. You have yourself experienced
the wickedness and treachery of this Court and Cabinet.
You cannot but recollect their manoeuvres in your own
Select Committee, and the treatment yourself, as Presi-
dent, received from these abandoned men. You cannot
but recollect the black business of St. Vincent's, by an
opposition to which you acquired the highest and most
deserved honour. I shall not trouble you with my opin-
ion of the right of taxing America without her own con-
sent, as I am afraid, from what I have seen of your speeches,
that you have already formed your creed on this article :
but I will boldly affirm, had this right been established by
a thousand statutes ; had America admitted it from time
immemorial, it would be the duty of every good English-
man to exert his utmost to divest Parliament of this right,
as it must inevitably work the subversion of the whole
Empire. The malady under which the state labours is
indisputably derived from the inadequate representation of
the subject, and the vast pecuniary influence of the Crown.
To add to this pecuniary influence and incompetency of
representation, is to insure and precipitate our destruction.
To wish any addition can scarcely enter the heart of a citi-
zen who has the least spark of publick virtue, and who is
at the same time capable of seeing consequences the most
immediate. I appeal, Sir, to your own conscience, to your
experience and knowledge of our Court and Parliament ;
and I request you to lay your hand upon your heart, and
then answer with your usual integrity and frankness, whe-
ther, on the supposition America should be abject enough
to submit to the terms imposed, you think a single guinea
raised upon her would be applied to the purpose (as it is
ostentatiously held out to deceive the people at home) of
easing the Mother Country ; or whether you are not con-
vinced that the whole they could extract would be applied
solely to heap up still further the enormous fund for cor-
ruption which the Crown already possesses, and of which
the most diabolical use is made ? On these principles I
say, Sir, every good Englishman, abstracted of" all regard
for America, must oppose her being taxed by the British
Parliament. For my own part, I am convinced that no
argument (not totally abhorrent from the spirit of liberty
and the British Constitution) can be produced in support
of this right. But it would be impertinent to trouble you
upon a subject which has been so amply, and, in my opi-
nion, so fully discussed.

I find, by a speech given as yours in the papers, that
it was by the King's positive command you embarked in
this service. 1 am somewhat pleased that it is not an
office of your own seeking, though, at the same time, I
must confess that it is very alarming to every virtuous citi-
zen, when he sees men of sense and integrity (because of
a certain profession) lay it down as a rule implicitly to
obey the mandates of a Court, be they ever so flagitious.
It furnishes, in my opinion, the best arguments for the total
reduction of the Army. But I am running into a tedious
essay, whereas I ought to confine myself to the main
design and purpose of this letter, which is to guard you
and your colleagues from those prejudices which the same
miscreants who have infatuated General Gage, and still
surround him, will labour to instil into you against a brave,
loyal, and most deserving people. The avenues of truth
will be shut up to you. I assert, Sir, that even General
Gage will deceive you, as he has deceived himself. I do
not say he will do it designedly ; I do not think him capa-
ble. But his mind is so totally poisoned, and his under-
standing so totally blinded by the society of fools and
knaves, that he no longer is capable of discerning facts
as manifest as the noon-day sun. 1 assert, Sir, that
his letters to the Ministry (at least such as the publick
have seen) are one continued tissue of misrepresentation,
injustice, and tortured inferences from misstated facts. I
affirm, Sir, that he has taken no pains to inform himself of
the truth ; that he has never conversed with a man who
has had the courage or honesty to tell him the truth.

1 am apprehensive that you and your colleagues may fall

927

CORRESPONDENCE, PROCEEDINGS, fcc, JUNE. 1776.

928

into the same trap; and it is the apprehension that you may
ho inconsiderately harried, by the vigour and activity you
possess, into measures which may he fatal to many inno-
cent individuals ; may hereafter wound your own feelings ;
and which cannot possibly serve the cause of those who
sent you, that has prompted me to address these lines to
you. I most devoutly wish that your industry, valour, and
military talents, may be reserved for a more honourable
and virtuous service against the natural enemies of our
Country, (to whom our Court are so basely complacent,)
and not in ineffectual attempts to reduce to the wretchedest
slate of servitude the most meritorious part of your fel-
low-subjects. I say, Sir, that any attempts to accomplish
this purpose must be ineffectual. You cannot possibly
succeed. No man is better acquainted with the state of
this Continent than myself. I have ran through almost
the whole Colonies, from the north to the south, and from
the south to the north. 1 have conversed with all orders
of men, from the first estated gentlemen to the lowest
planters and farmers, and can assure you that the same
spirit animates the whole. Not less than one hundred and
fifty thousand gentlemen, yeomen, and farmers, are now in
arms, determined to preserve their liberties or perish.

As to the idea that the Americans are deficient in cour-
age, it is too ridiculous and glaringly false to deserve a
serious refutation. I never could conceive upon what this
notion was founded. I served several campaigns in Ame-
rica last war, and cannot recollect a single instance of ill-
behaviour in the Provincials, where the Regulars acquitted
themselves well. Indeed, we well remember some instan-
ces of the reverse, particularly where the late Colonel
Grant (he who lately pledged himself for the general
cowardice of America) ran away with a large body of his
own Regiment, and was saved from destruction by the
valour of a few Virginians. Such preposterous argu-
ments are only proper for the Rigbys and Sandwiches, from
whose mouths never issued, and to whose breasts truth and
decency are utter strangers.

You will much oblige me in communicating this letter to
General Howe, to whom I could wish it should be consi-
dered in some measure addressed, as well as to yourself.
Mr. Howe is a man for whom I have ever had the highest
love and reverence. I have honoured him for his own
connexions, but above all for his admirable talents and good
qualities. I have courted his acquaintance and friendship,
not only as a pleasure, but as an ornament ; I flattered
myself that I had obtained it. Gracious God! is it pos-
sible that Mr. Howe should be prevailed upon to accept of
such an office ! That the brother of him, to whose memo-
ry the much injured people of Boston erected a monu-
ment, should be employed as one of the instruments of
their destruction. But the fashion of the times, it seems,
is such as renders it impossible he should avoid it. The
commands of our most gracious Sovereign are to cancel
all moral obligations, to sanctify every action, even those
that the satrap of an Eastern despot would start at.

I shall now beg leave to say a few words with respect
to myself, and the part I act. I was bred up from my in-
fancy in the highest veneration for the liberties of mankind
in general. What I have seen of Courts and Princes con-
vinces me, that the power cannot be lodged in worse hands
than in theirs; and of all Courts, I am persuaded that ours
is the most corrupt and hostile to the rights of humanity.
I am convinced that a regular plan has been laid (indeed
every act since the present accession evinces it) to abolish
even the shadow of liberty from amongst us. It was not
the demolition of the tea, it was not any other particular act
of the Bostonians, or of the other Provinces which con-
stituted their crimes; but it is the noble spirit of liberty
pervading the whole Continent which has rendered them
the objects of ministerial and royal vengeance. Had they
been notoriously of another disposition ; had they been
homines ad scrvitudincm varates, they might have made as
free with the property of the East-India Company as the
felonious North himself, with impunity. But the Lords
of St. James's, and their mercenaries of St. Stephen's,
well know, that as long as the free spirit of this great
Continent remains unsubdued, the progress they can make
in their scheme of universal despotism will be but trifling.
Hence it is that they wage inexpiable war against Ameri-
ca. In short, this is tbo last asylum of persecuted Liberty.

Here, should the machinations and fury of her enemies
prevail, that bright goddess must fly off from the face of
the earth, and leave not a trace behind. These, Sir, are
my principles; this is my persuasion; and, consequently, I
am determined to act. 1 have now, Sir, only to entreat,
that whatever measures you pursue, whether those which
your real friends (myself amongst them) would wish, or
unfortunately those which our accursed misrulers shall dic-
tate, you will si i 11 believe me to be personally, with the
greatest sincerity and affection,

Yours, ice. C. Lee.

PHILADELPHIA COMMITTEE.

Philadelphia, Jane 7, 1775.

The Committee last evening having requested as many
members as conveniently could to meet this day at the
Coffee-House, to inquire concerning an information given,
that Captain Robert Torrans had imported and sold Irish
Linens some time about the first of May last, in direct vio-
lation of the Association of the Congress :

Mr. Blair McClcnaghan, in whose vessel Captain Tor-
rans sailed, gave the following affidavit, made by the Cap-
tain :

" On the fifth day of June, 1775, before the subscribing
Justice, cometh Robert Torrans, Master of the Ship Duke
of York, lately arrived at the City of Philadelphia, and
maketh oath on the Holy Gospels, and saith, that Mr.
Blair McClcnaghan, of said City, merchant, was not privy
to, nor interested in any goods or merchandise lately im-
ported in said vessel from Ireland; and that Blair McClcn-
aghan aforesaid was not privy to, nor aiding or assisting,
nor consenting to the sale, landing, or putting on shore at
Philadelphia, or elsewhere in America, said goods or mer-
chandise so imported. Robert Torrans.

"Taken and sworn before me: George Bryan."

1. Resolved, That Mr. McClenaghan appears to this
Committee to be liable to no censure or suspicion villi re-
gard to the importation, landing, or sale of gcods in said
vessel, and that he has done his duty in discharging Cap-
tain Torrans from his employ,

2. Resolved, That Messrs. Harbison and Dean call at
Captain Torrans's lodgings, and inquire if he is in Town,
and request his attendance immediately.

3. Messrs. Harbison and Dean report, that Captain Tor-
rans has not been at his lodgings since yesterday morning.

4. Resolved, That as Captain Torrans cannot now be
found, the consideration of his conduct, and further pro-
ceedings of the Committee thereon, be deferred to uext
meeting of the Committee.

June 9. — The Committee resumed the consideration of
Captain Robert Torrans, late of the Ship Duke of York :

Resolved, unanimously, That Captain Torrans has wil-
fully and knowingly violated the Association of the Con-
gress, and that it is the duty of this Committee to advertise
his conduct, agreeable to the eleventh Resolution of the
Continental Congress.

NEW-icr.x coNGiirns to Massachusetts committee of

SAFETY.
In Provincial Congress, New-York, June 7, 1775.

Gentlemen : The multiplicity of business brought be-
fore us by the Continental Congress, and a short adjourn-
ment of our body from Saturday till Tuesday morning,
have rendered it impossible for us to give a more early at-
tention to your favour of the 2Gth ultimo.

We have little to say upon the principal subject of your
letter, as we conceive that the Provincial Congress of both
Colonies are concluded from any discretionary pn
relative to the ordnance and other stores taken at Crown
Point and Ticondcroga, of which you must be fully con-
vinced by the acts of the Continental Congress on that
subject, copies of which are enclosed.

We are fully apprised of the dangerous consequences
that would await this capital of our Colony, either from
supineness or a confidence in the honour of those who,
being the avowed instruments of ministerial vengeance, wc
cannot expect will hold any faith with us. Whatever arti-
cles we are now possessed of, that may bo used to the

929

CORRESPONDENCE, PROCEEDINGS, &c, JUNE, 1775.

930

injury of this City in particular, or of the Continent in
general, we shall be studious to prevent, if possible, from
falling into the hands of our enemies. In sympathizing
with you for the unhappy Town of Boston, we shall do
every thing in our power to prevent this City from being
reduced to the same deplorable situation, and shall watch-
fully attend to every means of defence which our present
or future circumstances may enable us to improve.

We are, gentlemen and brethren, with great respect and
sincere affection, your most obedient humble servants,
P. V. B. Livingston, President.

To Joseph Warren, Esquire, and the Committee of Safety
for the Colony of the Massachusetts-Bay.

DONALD McLEOD TO NEW-YORK COMMITTEE.

To the Honourable Gentlemen of the Committee for the
City and County of New- York, in Assembly or body
convened: The Petition of Donald McLeod, Esq.,
late from Scotland, humbly sheweth :

That your petitioner, from a deep sense of the favours
conferred on himself, as well as those shown to many of
his countrymen when in great distress after their arrival
into this once happy City, is moved by a voluntary spirit
of liberty to offer himself in the manner and form follow-
ing, viz :

That your said petitioner understands that a great
many Companies are now on foot to be raised for the
defence of our liberties in this once happy land, which he
thinks to be a very proper maxim for the furtherance of
our rights and liberty ; that your said petitioner (although
he has nothing to recommend himself but the vanity of
calling himself a Highlander, from North-Britain) flat-
ters himself that if this honourable Committee were to
grant him a commission, under their hand and seal, that
he could, without difficulty, raise one hundred Scotch
Highlanders in this City and the neighbouring Provinces,
provided they were to be put in the Highland dress, and
under pay during their service in defence of our liberties.
Therefore, may it please your Honours to take this peti-
tion under your serious consideration ; and should your
Honours think proper to confer the honour upon him as
to have the command of a Highland Company, under the
circumstances proposed, your petitioner assures you that no
person shall or will be more willing to accept of the offer
than your humble petitioner. Donald McLeod.

New. York, Juno 7, 1775.

BENJAMIN LINDSAY TO NEW-YORK COMMITTEE.

New. York, June 7, 1775.

Captain Benjamin Lindsay acquaints the gentlemen of
the Committee that he arrived here yesterday from Provi-
dence, and has brought with him a letter to the Commit-
tee, and informs them that application has been made
to him by the Committee and people of that Town to
bring back with him a load of flour and other necessaries,
of which they stand much in need, and of the former are
at present much necessitated, owing to the uncommon
large supplies that Town has contributed to the Provin-
cial Army. And Captain Lindsay can assure the Com-
mittee, from repeated trials, he can go and come from that
place through the back part of JS'arragansctt, so as en-
tirely to evade the vigilance of the men-of-war stationed
at Newport, besides his being well manned and completely
armed and able to resist any attacks from their boats, or
otherwise. He therefore requests the concurrence of the
Committee, as also to take on board a parcel of flour and
other necessaries that Mr. Curtenius informs him he has
in care for the poor of Boston, and which may easily be
forwarded by land to the Provincial Camp, Mr. Curtenius
having applied to him for that purpose.

own vessel, so we agreed that he should procure another
vessel, and Mr. Cook applied to Mr. Vixson to procure
the flour for us ; and when Mr. Vixson understood how
matters were circumstanced, he provided the effects, and
we were to sail together. Gentlemen, if you will take it
into consideration, and, believe me, it is for the same pur-
pose as mine is, for the Committee of Providence, and to
supply our camp, or rather called Provincial Camp. This
I certify and declare to, with my hand, that there is no
other intent in this matter. Benjamin Lindsay.

SELECTMEN OF LANCASTER TO MASSACHUSETTS CONGRESS.

To the Honourable Provincial Congress now holden at
Watertown, in the Province of the Massachusetts-
Bay :

We, the subscribers, do request and desire that you
would be pleased to direct or inform this Province in gen-
eral, or the Town of Lancaster in particular, what is best
to be done with the estates of those men who are gone
from their estates to General Gage, and are now with him
in Boston ; and who shall take possession of such houses
and lands as belong to such men as are with General
Gage, and to whose use they shall improve them, whether
for the Province or the Town where said estate is.
Ebenezer Allen, }
Cyrus Fairbank, > Selectmen.
Samuel Thurston, )
Lancaster, June 7, 1775.

BENJAMIN LINDSAY TO NEW-YORK CONGRESS.

New- York, June 11, 1775.

Gentlemen of the Provincial Congress :

I am very sorry that any difficulties should arise from
the flour that was to be shipped by Captain Coffin. As
Mr. Cook and I came from Providence together, and as
I found that I could not take all the flour on board my

Fourth Series. — Vol. ii. 59

COMMITTEE OF BELFAST, ETC., TO THE MASSACHUSETTS
CONGRESS.

Penobscot, June 7, 1775.

Gentlemen: We, the subscribers, being duly appoint-
ed a Committee by the inhabitants settled on Penobscot
River, the inhabitants of Belfast, Majabigwaduce, and
Benjamin's River, to make a representation to you of the
difficulties and distress the said inhabitants are under in
respect to the scarcity of corn and ammunition, occasioned
by the interruption of vessels which they depended upon
for their supplies, and also the impediments in the exporta-
tion from the seaport Towns from different Committees,
after the said articles have been purchased : We accord-
ingly herewith send you the votes of said inhabitants, pass-
ed by them at a general meeting, on Tuesday, the 6th day
of June instant, which we are to pray your consideration
of, being encouraged thereto from the many instances of
favour and assistance which the Province have heretofore
afforded to this infant settlement ; and without some at this
time, we have real cause to apprehend that these promising
settlements may be broken up. We are further to assure
you that the said inhabitants are ready, with their lives and
all they have, to support the cause which this Country is
engaged in, in defence of their liberties and privileges, and
will hold themselves in readiness for that purpose. The
said Committee are also to inform you that it was repre-
sented at the said meeting that the establishment of Fort
Pownall is nearly expired ; that the commander of the
said fort, in obedience to the commands of the Governour,
delivered to his order the artillery and some arms belonging
to the said fort ; that he also delivered to our own inhabi-
tants in the different parts of this vicinity, upon their appli-
cation, some arms and ammunition, reserving only a small
quantity of each for the use of the soldiers belonging to
said garrison, which occasions the said fort at this time to
be very bare in those respects. We are also to represent
to you that the Town of Belfast is in want of about one
dozen stands of arms, which is not practicable to be got
here. All which we are enjoined to lay before you, gen-
tlemen, who represent the Province in this unhappy time,
and to pray you to take the same into your consideration,
and give them such relief as, upon mature deliberation, you
judge expedient.

We are, in behalf of the said inhabitants, gentlemen,
your most humble servants,

Tho. Goldthwait, Edmund Moores,
John Tufts, Benjamin Shute,

Jonathan Buck, Oliver Crary.

To the Honourable Gentlemen assembled at Cambridge in
Provincial Congress.

931

CORRESPONDENCE, PROCEEDINGS, &c, JUNE, 1773.

932

To the Honourable Provincial Congress now sitting at

Watertown :
The Petition of Davis and Coverlv, late of Boston,
humbly showeth :

That whereas your petitioners have a quantity of Eng-
lish goods in Boston; that Mr. Henry Barnes, of Marl-
borough, now in Boston, has quantities of English goods
at said Marlborough, near the same quality, and is willing
to make an exchange for the same : We therefore heg
leave of this honourable Congress that we, your petition-
ers, be allowed to make the exchange ; and, as in duty
bound, shall ever pray. Davis &i Coverly.

W.tcrtown, June 7, 1775.

RESOLVES OF HANOVER (VIRGINIA) VOLUNTEERS.

At a meeting of the Hanover Volunteer Company on
the 8th of June, 1775 :

Resolved, That this Company approve of the spirited
resolution of the IVi/liamsburgh Volunteers of the 25th
ult., and that they are determined, at the risk of their lives,
to aid and assist in protecting the liberties of this Country
against all arbitrary measures whatsoever.

Resolved, That the' expedition undertaken by this Com-
pany in making reprisals on the King's property for pow-
der removed from the Country's magazine by the command
of the Governour, proceeded from a sincere attachment to
the liberties of their Country; and it is with heartfelt satis-
faction that their conduct is so generally approved by their
worthy countrymen.

Signed by order of the Company :

James Overton, Clerk.

Philadelphia, June 8, 1775.
This morning the three Battalions of this City and Li-
berties, consisting of fifteen hundred men, the Artillery
Company of one hundred and fifty, (with two twelve and
four six-pound brass field-pieces,) a troop of Light-horse,
several companies of Light-Infantry, Rangers, and Rifle-
men, in the whole above two thousand men, marched to the
commons, and having joined in brigade, went through the
manual exercise, firings, and manoeuvres, (with a dexterity
scarcely to have been expected from such short practice,)
in the presence of the honourable members of the Conti-
nental Congress, and several thousand spectators, among
whom were a great number of the most respectable inhabi-
tants of this City.

ABRAHAM CLARK TO THE NEW-YORK CONGRESS.

Elizabethtown, New-Jersey, June 8, 1775.

Sir : You have now sent you six quarter casks and two
half barrels of powder. The quarter casks I got at New-
Brunswick, and the two half barrels, containing one hun-
dred and five pounds, I got at fVoodbridge; for each of
which I gave receipts that I received them to be forward-
ed to the Provincial Camp near Boston, agreeable to a re-
quisition from them. There was no more to be obtained ;
they had sold the most of their stores to the inhabitants.
You will be so kind as to send a receipt of the same tenour
of those I gave, that I may show them the stores are for-
warded agreeable to my promises. I am, Sir, your humble
servant, Abraham Clark.

To Peter V. B. Livingston, Esq.

NEW-YORK C0NGRES9 TO THE CONTINENTAL CONGRESS.
[Read in Congress June 10, 1775.]
In Provincial Congress, New- York, June 8, 1775.
Gentlemen : We take the liberty to intrude on the pa-
tience of your most respectable body, by enclosing a letter
which we have this instant received from our brethren in
the Massachusetts-Bay. When we inform you that it is
utterly impracticable for us to procure what they have re-
quested, you will certainly excuse a freedom which is dic-
tated by an attention to the publick safety. How necessary
it is to provide some remedy to this pressing necessity, we
will not presume to mention. Our duty hath compelled us
to relate to you the facts. They speak for themselves
loudly ; and a most entire confidence in your wisdom pre-
cludes us from saying any thing farther on the subject.

We are, gentlemen, most faithfully and respectfully,
your fellow-labourers and countrymen.

By order and in behalf of the Provincial Congress :
Volkert P. Donw, Vice-President.
To the Honourable the Continental Congress.

GENERAL WARD AND OTHERS TO NEW-YORK CONGH

Cunp, Juno 4, 1775.

Gentlemen: Your noble exertions in the common
cause, your zeal for the maintenance of the rights of Ame-
rica, and the sympathizing concern with which we know
you look on our sufferings, encourages us to represent to
you the distressing state of this Colony.

Our capital is filled with disciplined troops, thoroughly
equipped with every thing necessary to render them formi-
dable ; a train of artillery as complete as can be conceived
of; a full supply of arms and ammunition ; and an absolute
command of the harbour of Boston, which puts it in their
power to furnish themselves with whatever they shall think
convenient by sea, are such advantages as must render our
contest with them in every view extremely difficult.

We suffer at present the greatest inconveniences from
a want of a sufficient quantity of powder ; without this,
every attempt to defend ourselves, or annoy our enemies,
must prove abortive. We have taken every step to avail
ourselves of this article, by drawing into our general maga-
zines whatever could be spared from the respective Towns
of this Colony ; but the frequent skirmishes we have had
has greatly diminished our stock, and we are now under
the most alarming apprehensions, that notwithstanding the
bravery of our troops, (whom we think we can, without
boasting, declare are ready to encounter every danger for
the preservation of the liberties and rights of America,') we
shall basely, for the want of means of defence, fall at last a
prey to our enemies. We, therefore, most earnestly be-
seech you that you would, if possible, afford us some relief
in this respect, by lending or selling to us some part of the
powder in your Colony. We readily conceive the unwil-
lingness with which you must part with so necessary an
article at this time. We know you have not the quantity
you would wish to keep for your own use. We apply to
you, not because we suppose you have a surplusage, but
because we are in the most distressing want. We beg,
therefore, that we may not be suffered to perish. We have
taken such steps as we have great reason to hope will, in a
short time, furnish us with powder, and if we can be assist-
ed till that arrives, we doubt not but that we shall be able
to baffle the designs of our enemies, and be greatly instru-
mental in preserving the rights and liberties of all America.
We must request that whatever aid you shall find it in your
power to give us, may be in the most secret manner, as a
knowledge of our deficiency in the article of powder before
we are supplied, might be attended with the most fatal
consequences.

We are, gentlemen, with great respect, your affectionate
brethren and very humble servants,

Artemas Ward,
General of the Massachusetts Army.
Joseph Warren,
Chairman of the Committee of Safety.
Moses Gill,
Chairman of the Committee of Supplies.
To the Hon. Congress for the Colony of Neiv- York.

P. S. We beg what powder you can possibly spare may
be immediately conveyed to us by land, in the way least
liable to be suspected by any persons who may correspond
with the enemy.

To the Honourable Gentlemen of the Congress for the

Colony of New- York, in body convened:
The Petition of Donald McLeod, Esquire, late from
Scotland, most humbly showeth :
That yesterday your said petitioner presented a petition
before this honourable body, and as to the contents of
which he begs leave to give reference. That since, a ship
arrived from Scotland, with a number of Highlanders pas-
sengers. That your petitioner talked to them this morn-
ing, and after informing them of the present state of this

933

CORRESPONDENCE, PROCEEDINGS, &c, JUNE, 1775.

934

as well as the neighbouring Colonies, they all seemed to
be very desirous to form themselves into companies, with
the proviso of having liberty to wear their own country
dress, commonly called the Highland habit, and moreover
to be under pay for the time they are in the service for the
protection of the liberties of this once happy Country, but
by all means to be under the command of Highland offi-
cers, as some of them cannot speak the English language.
That the said Highlanders seem very desirous of being
commanded by your petitioner, provided an answer shall
be given them very soon, as their intention is not to stay
here any considerable time. That the said Highlanders
are already furnished with guns, swords, pistols, and High-
land dirks, which, in case of occasion, is very necessary, as
all the above articles are at this time very difficult to be
had. Therefore, may it please your Honours to take all
and singular the premises under your serious and immedi-
ate consideration ; and as your petitioner wants an answer
as soon as possible, he further prays that as soon as they
think it meet, he may be advised. And your petitioner,
as in duty bound, shall ever pray,

Donald McLeod.

City of New-York, June 8, 1775.

NEW-YORK COMMITTEE.

The Committee met, by adjournment, 8th June, 1775.
Present :

Henry Remsen,
Ab. BrinkerholF,
Wm. D nning,
John Berrian,
Oliver Templeton,
Joseph Totten,
Jacob Van Voorhies,
John Morton,
William Laight,
Jeremiah Piatt,
Nicholas Bogart,
Abraham Duryeo,

Edward Fleming,
Hercules Mulligan,
William Goforth,
Lancaster Burling,
Petrus Byvanck,
Eleazer Miller,
John Imlay,
Peter T. Curtenius,
Richard Sharpe,
Thomas Ivers,
Robert Ray,
Cornelius P. Low,

Evert Banker,
Daniel Dunscomb,
Nicholas Hotfman,
Gerret Kettletas,
Isaac Sears,
Jacobus Lefferts,
Abraham P. Lott,
Alex. McDougall,
John M. Scott,
James Beckman,
John Van Cortlandt.

In pursuance of an order of this Committee at their last
meeting, a poll was this day opened at the City-Hall, for
the electing a Deputy to represent this City and County
in Provincial Congress, in the place of Mr. George Fol-
liott, who declined serving ; and also of two members to
serve in this Committee, in the room of the said George
Folliolt, and of Samuel Jones, who never has attended.
And by a return of the said poll, it appears that Mr. Isaac
Sears was elected by a large majority as a Deputy, and
Mr. William Bedlow and Mr. John Woodward as mem-
bers of this Committee.

Ordered, That the Chairman of this Board grant no
certificates for licensing the exportation of Goods from this
City and County to any port or place out of this Colony,
unless due proof, in writing, on oath, be produced to him,
that the said Goods were not imported contrary to the
tenour or true intent and meaning of the General Conti-
nental Association.

Ordered, That John lmlay, John Berrian, Thomas
Buchannan, William Goforlh, Joseph Bull, Abraham P.
Lott, Cornelius Clopper, and Evert Banker, be a Sub-
Committee to inspect and examine into the Cargoes of any
vessels which may arrive in this Port, suspected of having
goods on board not admissible.

Ordered, That Daniel Phenioc, Captain Bedlow, Wil-
liam Denning, and John Woodward be added to the above
Committee.

BROOKHAVEN (NEW-YORK) COMMITTEE.

At a meeting of the freeholders and other inhabitants of
the Town of Brookhaven, in the County of Suffolk, and
in the Province of New-York, on the 8th day of June,
1775 : Then by a large majority of votes, were chosen and
elected sixteen persons as a Committee of Observation, to
represent said Town, and to deliberate on other matters
relative to our present political welfare. Agreed that the
last Tuesday in June be appointed as a day for the above
named Committee to meet.

The Committee met, pursuant to appointment, at Co-
ram, on the 27th of June, 1775. Present : John Woodhull,
Esquire, Thomas Helme, Esq., Mr. John Bobinson, Mr.
Thomas Fanning, Lieut. William Brewster, Mr. Noah
Hallock, Mr. Joseph Brown, Mr. John Woodhull, Jun.,

Mr. Nathaniel Roe, Jun., Captain Jonathan Baker, Mr.
Daniel Roe, and Mr. Samuel Thompson, of the Manor of
St. George's ; Mr. William Smith and Mr. Jonah Hulse,
of the Patentship of Moriches ; Capt. Josiah Smith.

Then proceeded, and chose John Woodhull, Esquire,
Chairman, and Mr. Samuel Thompson Clerk, and entered
into the following Votes and Resolutions :

First. Resolved, nemine contradiccntc, That we express
our loyalty to His Majesty King George the Third, and
acknowledge him as our rightful Lord and Sovereign, as
settled on Revolution principles, being of legal descent from
the illustrious house of Brunsivick, to the utter exclusion
of the family of the Stuarts, who, by their despotick and
tyrannical principles, were deservedly banished and ren-
dered unfit to sway the British sceptre.

Second. Resolved, That it is the opinion of this Com-
mittee that the above Resolution was the opinion of the
Continental Congress that set last year; and is also the
opinion of the Continental Congress and our Provincial
Congress now sitting ; and that it is also the opinion of
very far the greater part of the English inhabitants of this
most extensive Continent.

Third. Resolved, unanimously, That it is the opinion of
this Committee that the several acts passed in the British
Parliament for the express purpose of raising a revenue in
America ; also, the acts for stopping the Port of Boston ; for
altering their Charter and Government ; for establishing the
Roman Catholick religion, and abolishing the equitable
system of English laws, and erecting in their stead French
despotick Government, in Canada ; — as also the act for re-
straining the New-England fishery, and many other acts of
a similar nature ; and further declaring they have power
vested in them to make laws binding on us in all cases
whatsoever, are contrary to the Constitution, and subver-
sive of our legal rights as English freemen and British
subjects.

Fourth. Resolved, nemine contradicente, That we will
use our utmost endeavours, as far as in us lies, and we will
earnestly recommend it to our constituents, strictly and in-
variably to abide by and adhere to the determinations and
resolutions of the honourable the Continental Congress, and
also strictly to comply with the injunctions of our Provin-
cial Convention, which (under God) we hope is the most
effectual means to obtain a redress of our present publick
grievances, and save us from impending ruin.

Fifth. We do unanimously make this our apology to the
respectable publick, and to our several Congresses in par-
ticular, that we have come so late into Congressional mea-
sures, and hope a veil may be cast over our past conduct,
for we can assure the publick in general that our remissness
was not for want of a patriotick spirit in a number of our
individuals, but because that opposition ran so high in some
parts of this Town, that an attempt of this kind would per-
haps have answered no valuable purpose, but we verily
believe that the past opposition arose in a great measure
from want of better information.

Sixth. It is unanimously resolved by us at this meeting,
that we will keep a strict watch that no Provisions or ne-
cessaries be transported from within the bounds of our con-
stituents, so as designedly or accidentally to fall into the
hands of those we have just cause to esteem and treat as
our enemies.

Seventh. Ordered, That the resolves and proceedings
of this Committee be printed by Mr. John Holt.

Signed by order of the Committee :

John Woodhull, Chairman.

CUMBERLAND COUNTY (NEW-YORK) COMMITTEE TO NEW-
YORK CONGRESS.

Westminster, June 8, 1775.

Honoured Sir: Having received certain advice from
Mr. Isaac Loxv, Chairman of the honourable Committee
of Correspondence at New-York, that it is the desire of
the said Committee that this County of Cumberland should
send Delegates to the City of New-York, to consult with
the very respectable members of the Provincial Congress,
what measures are best to be pursued in this distressing and
very alarming situation of this Province ; we hereby in-
form your Honour that the inhabitants of the several Towns
in said County of Cumberland immediately assembled, (at

935

CORRESPONDENCE, PROCEEDINGS, he, JUNE, 1775.

936

the earliest notice from Mr. Low,) and all of us, inhabitants
of the same County, were unanimously disposed to send
Delegates to the City of New-York, in order to consult
what measures are proper to be taken in this alarming
situation of our publick affairs.

We hereby return our most sincere thanks to the honour-
able Committee of Correspondence, for the favourable no-
tice they have taken of us in this far-distant, infant County.

You, Sir, and the honourable Provincial Congress, may
be assured (although the minions and tools of power may
assert to the contrary) that we, in this County, are almost
to a man resolute and fully determined, (under God,)
us much as in us lies, to vindicate and maintain those
liberties, both civil and religious, which, by the laws of God
and the British Constitution, we are clearly entitled to.

We detest and abhor those arbitrary, tyrannick, and san-
guinary measures which the British Parliament are most
industriously pursuing against the American Colonies, in
order to dragoon them into compliance of certain late de-
testable acts of Parliament, replete with horrour, and re-
pugnant to every idea of British freedom, and which have
a direct tendency to reduce the free and brave Americans
into a state of the most abject slavery and vassalage.

We, therefore, think it our indispensable duty to God,
our Country, and ourselves, at the expense of our lives and
fortunes, (if called,) to the last extremity, to join with our
brethren in America in general, and most vigorously to op-
pose and resist the said detestable measures and proceed-
ings. Confidently relying upon the wisdom and integrity
of the honourable Provincial and Continental Congresses,
we are determined to pursue, at all times, such salutary
measures as they in their wisdom and prudence shall ad-
vise to.

We would earnestly request that you, Sir, would exert
your influence with the members of the honourable Con-
gress, that this poor infant County, at present in a very
defenceless state, might have some relief from New- York.
We esteem it a privilege, and a peculiar happiness, that
we are in a Government, rich, opulent, and flourishing, and
abundantly able to afford assistance to a needy but indus-
trious people, who are settling a rude and uncultivated wil-
derness, but at the same time are heartily disposed to pro-
mote the grand American cause.

Sir, we would flatter ourselves, and humbly hope that
the honourable Congress will assist our Delegates in pro-
curing arms and ammunition, which are so very necessary
for us at this important crisis. Sir, you may rely upon it
that our people in general are spirited, resolute, and active,
in the defence of our dear-bought rights and liberties, and
will not flinch, if called, generously to spill our blood to
oppose and resist ministerial tyranny and oppression.

Therefore, wishing this Province all imaginable prospe-
rity, happiness, and success, we, in behalf of the freeholders
and inhabitants of this County of Cumberland, subscribe
ourselves your most obedient humble servants, &,c.

John Hazeltine,
Chairman of the Committee of Correspondence
and County of Cumberland Congress.

To the Hon. P. V. B. Livingston, Esq., President of the
Honourable Provincial Congress now convened at the
City of Nero- York.

PETITION OF SENIOR CLASS RHODE-ISLAND COLLEGE, TO
THEIR PRESIDENT, ETC.

College in Providence, June 8, 1775.

To the Reverend President, Honourable Professor, and the
rest of the Honourable Corporation of Rhode-Island
College : the dutiful Petition of the Senior Class :

Most worthy Patrons : Deeply affected with the dis-
tresses of our oppressed Country, which now most unjustly
feels the baneful effects of arbitrary power, provoked to the
greatest height of cruelty and vengeance by the noble and
manly resistance of a free and determined people, permit
us, gentlemen, to approach you with this our humble and
dutiful petition, that you would be pleased to take under
your most serious consideration the propriety of holding
the ensuing Commencement in a publick manner as usual ;
whether such a celebration of that anniversary would be in
conformity to the eighth article of the Association, formed

by the Grand American Congress, and which all the Colo-
nies are now religiously executing, and that you would be
pleased to signify unto us your resolution respecting the
same, that we may govern ourselves accordingly.

Signed by Committee in behalf of the Senior Class.

Josiah Read,
Andrew Law,
James Fulton.

answer to the petition of the senior class.

College Library, June 9, 1775.

To the Committee of the Senior Class :

Gentlemen: Your dutiful and reasonable petition has
been duly attended to ; and permit us to assure you that it
gives us no small satisfaction, that the present members of
this institution, and particularly the respectable Senior Class,
are so sensibly affected with the distresses of our Country
in its present glorious struggles for liberty. We rejoice that
you are so ready to sacrifice that applause to which your
abilities would entitle you at a publick Commencement.
And though by this means you may be deprived of an ad-
vantageous opportunity to give proof of your abilities in
pleading the righteous cause of liberty, for which your pre-
decessors, in this institution, have been justly celebrated,
yet you have hereby given us a convincing proof of your
inviolable attachment to the true interest of your Country.
Be assured that we shall most heartily concur in this, and
every other measure which has been or may be adopted by
the Grand American Congress, as well as the Legislature of
this Colony, in order to obtain a most ample redress of all
our grievances, and deem it the greatest honour to which a
noble and generous mind can aspire, to contribute in any
degree towards a restoration and re-establishment in our
Country, of all those liberties and privileges, both civil and
religious, which the Almighty Father of the Universe ori-
ginally granted to every individual of the human race, and
which all ought to enjoy yll by law forfeited ; which reason
claims; which the right of soil, obtained of the natives by
free purchase, settles upon us ; which our chatters ensure
to us, and which have been recognised by Great Britain,
and guarantied to us by the faith of the English Nation.
These inestimable rights and privileges our Country has for
many years enjoyed, the source of its present wealth and
strength, more' than its fertile soil or healthy climate. By
the cruel and wanton invasion and violation of these, she
now bleeds in almost every vein ; and finally, it is these that
her noble sons, the illustrious American patriots, prompted
as well as justified by the examples of heroes in all ages,
are now prepared to defend, by the same means which have
hitherto preserved the liberties of Great Britain, and raised
to royal dignity the House of Brunswick.

And though the din of arms, and the horrours of a civil
war, should invade our hitherto peaceful habitations, yet
even these are preferable to a mean and base submission to
arbitrary power and lawless rapine.

Institutions of learning will doubtless partake in the com-
mon calamities of our Country, as arms have ever proved
unfriendly to the more refined and liberal arts and sciences ;
yet we are resolved to continue College orders here as usual,
excepting that the ensuing Commencement, by the advice
of such of the Corporation as could be conveniently con-
sulted, will not be publick.

James Manning, President.
David Hoell, Philos. Professor.

GOVERNOUR TRUMBULL TO MASSACHUSETTS CONGRESS.

Lebanon, June 8, 1775.

Gentlemen: Since my letter of the first instant, I have
received three Resolves from the honourable Continental
Congress ; the copies enclosed will show you their ultimate
determination touohing the fortresses on Lake Champlain,
agreeable to our desires, set right by taking the sloop at
St. John's.

I take encouragement that the Indians of the Six Na-
tions will prove friendly, from the speeches and answers to
and from the Magistrates, fee, of Albany and Schenectady,
with the Indians at Guy Park, May 25, 1775; too long to
copy at this time, received this day.

From Albany and places adjacent, six companies, con-

937

CORRESPONDENCE, PROCEEDINGS, &c, JUNE, 1775.

938

sisting of fifty men each, and one of a hundred men, are
gone and going to the above-mentioned fortresses.

The Albanians appear spirited in defence of our rights.

Enclosed letter from Colonel Arnold came enclosed to
me, with desire to forward it to you.

I am, with truth and regard, gentlemen, your most obe-
dient humble servant, Jonathan Trumbull.
To the Honourable Provincial Congress of Massachusetts-

Bay.

In Provincial Congress, Watertown, June 8, 1775.

To the Moheakounuck Tribe of Indians, living in and

about Stockbridge :

Brothers: We this day, by the Delegate from Stock-
bridge, first heard your friendly answer to our speech to
you by Captain William Goodrich ; which answer we are
told you made to us immediately, by a letter which we have
not yet received. We now reply.

Brothers ! you say that you were once great, but are now
little, and that we once were little, but are now great. The
Supreme Spirit orders these things. Whether we are little
or great, let us keep the path of friendship clear, which our
fathers made, and in which we have both travelled to this
time.

The friends of the wicked counsellors of our King fell
upon us, and shed some blood, soon after we spoke to you
last by our letter ; but we, with a small twig, killed so many,
and frightened them so much, that they have shut them-
selves up in our great Town, called Boston, which they
have made strong.

We have now made our hatchets, and all our instruments
of war, sharp and bright. All the chief counsellors who
live on this side of the great water, are sitting in the Grand
Council-House in Philadelphia. When they give the word,
we shall all, as one man, fall on and drive our enemies out
of their strong fort, and follow them till they shall take
their hands out of our pouches, and let us sit in our Coun-
cil-House as we used to do, and as our fathers did in old
times.

Brothers ! though you are small, yet you are wise. Use
your wisdom to help us. If you think it best, go and smoke
your pipe with your Indian brothers towards the setting of
the sun, and tell them all you hear, and all you see, and
let us know what their wise men say.

If some of your young men should have a mind to see
what we are doing here, let them come down and tarry
among our warriors. We will provide for them while they
are here.

Brothers ! when you have any trouble, come and tell it
to us and we will help you.

Signed by order of Congress:

Samuel Freeman, Secretary.

To Capt. Solomon Uhhaunnauwaunmut, Chief Sachem of
the Moheakounuck Tribe of Indians at Stockbridge.

PORTSMOUTH COMMITTEE TO NEW-HAMPSHIRE CONGRESS.

Portsmouth, June 8, 1775.

Sir: A mail containing a quantity of letters were last
night sent from on board the man-of-war to Eleazer Rus-
sell, Esq., in whose hands they now remain. Mr. King
waits on the Congress to request their determination on this
matter, and will give them what further information they
require. We must entreat Mr. King may return to Town
this night, as the people will be impatient for their letters.

I am, by order of the Committee, Sir, your most humble
servant, Thos. Hart, Chairman.

To the President of the Provincial Congress at Exeter.

In Provincial Congress, Exeter, June 8, 1775.

Whereas the present alarming and very critical situation
of this Colony has occasioned this Congress to raise a
number of Soldiers to defend the same, and the extreme
scarcity of money in the Colony makes it very difficult to
raise a sufficiency for supplying said Soldiers, and as there
is a considerable sum in the Treasury of this Colony raised
on the polls and estates of the inhabitants thereof: it is

Resolved, That Ichabod Rollings, Esq., Col. Bartlett,
Eben. Thompson, yir.Cilley, Major Welch, David Gilman,

and Captain Evans, be a Committee, in the name of this
Congress, to call upon the Honourable George Jaffrcy,
Esquire, for the balance due from him to the Colony, as
Treasurer aforesaid, and that they receive from him said
money, and give him such security as shall be sufficient for
justifying his payment of the same, which they are hereby
empowered to do, and are authorized to assure said Trea-
surer, that the exigence of the Colony is such that no ex-
cuse or delay of the same will be admitted ; and make
return of your doings.

Charlestown, South-Carolina, June 9, 1775.

We are informed that the Association lately subscribed
by the Provincial Congress, and recommended by them as
proper to be signed by all the inhabitants, meets with the
greatest success. In the course of four days it has been
signed by almost every man in Charlestown ; none having
refused that we hear of, except a few gentlemen under pe-
culiar circumstances.

We also learn, that the Provincial Congress have deter-
mined to raise two Regiments of Foot, and one of Horse,
immediately ; and also to put the Militia upon a respect-
able footing, to which the people most cheerfully accord ;
and we have the satisfaction of knowing, that the Colony
will very speedily be put in a good posture of defence.

The Provincial Congress have resolved to lay up proper
quantities of rice and flour in granaries in divers parts of
the Colony ; and have appointed Commissioners for pur-
chasing these articles, and carrying these resolutions forth-
with into execution. They have also prohibited the fur-
ther exportation of rice and corn for three months.

MEETING OF LANCASTER (VIRGINIA) VOLUNTEERS.

At a meeting of the Volunteer Company of Lancaster
County, on Friday, June 9, 1775:

Resolved, That every Member of this Company do re-
turn thanks to the worthy Captain Patrick Henry and the
Volunteer Company of Hanover, for their spirited conduct
on a late expedition, and they are determined to protect
him from any insult that may be offered him on that ac-
count, at the risk of life and fortune.

Resolved, That we are determined to defend our wor-
thy Speaker, and the rest of our worthy Delegates, who
have so nobly exerted themselves in the cause of Ameri-
ca ; and all other friends to American liberty, whom the
abandoned tools of Administration may dare to attack.

Resolved, That notice be given to the Volunteer Com-
pany of the City of Williamsburgh that this Company bind
themselves by the sacred ties of honour and love for their
Country, to join them on the smallest warning, and march
to any part of the Colony in defence of liberty, and that
they concur with them in opinion that landing any foreign
forces at this time in this Country will be a dangerous
attack on the liberties of the same ; and therefore if any
such should be landed, they are determined, with the assis-
tance of their countrymen, immediately to oppose them.

Resolved, That a copy of the aforesaid Resolutions be
transmitted to Mr. John Pinkney, and that he be desired
to print the same in his Gazette as soon as convenient.

WILLIAM WILLIAMS AND OTHERS TO NEW-YORK CONGRESS.

Westminster, June 9, 1775.

Sir: We, the subscribers, beg leave most humbly to
shew, that being deeply impressed with the great impor-
tance of having a Regiment duly prepared, at the least
notice, in this County, in order to keep under proper sub-
jection Regulars, Roman Catholicks, and the Savages at
the northward, as also to be ready at all times to defend
our rights and privileges against Ministerial tyranny and
oppression, seeing hostilities have already commenced, and
the sword is actually drawn in order to enforce certain
tyrannick and arbitrary acts of the British Parliament,
replete with horrour, and repugnant to every idea of Bri-
tish freedom; we, the loyal inhabitants of this County,
glowing with true martial ardour, and willing, with the
utmost cheerfulness and alacrity, to unsheath the sword in
defence of the lives and properties of the good people of
this ancient and truly respectable patriotick Colony of

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CORRESPONDENCE, PROCEEDINGS, &c, JUNE, 1775.

940

JVew- York, beg leave to offer our services in the defence
of this Province, and America in general. We therefore,
with due submission, propose cheerfully and with the utmost
gratitude to accept (if your honourable Congress shall think
proper) commissions from this honourable Provincial Con-
gress, viz : Colonel, Lieutenant-Colonel, and Major.

We determine to be entirely under the command and
order of the Provincial Congress, hoping \vc shall truly merit
the favours of said Congress, and be useful instruments in
serving this ancient and honourable Colony of New-Y«rk,
as also the common grand American cause.

Sir your assisting us in this our humble request, and pre-
senting to us the above-mentioned Commissions, would
much oblige your most obedient humble servants,

Wm. Williams,
Benjamin Waite,

JOAB HoiSINGTON.

To the Honourable P. V. B. Livingston, President of the
Provincial Congress.

N. B. We hope to raise a Regiment of good active enter-
prising soldiers in this County, which we hope will reflect
honour on this Colony. The arrangement of said com-
missions we desire might be according to the following
order : Major William Williams, our Delegate, to be first
Colonel ; Major Benjamin Wait, Lieutenant-Colonel ; and
Captain Joub Iloisington, Major.

ETHAN ALLEN TO THE MASSACHUSETTS CONGRESS.

Crown Point, June D, 1775.

Honourable Gentlemen : I am informed by Colonel
Easton that you are well satisfied with the economy and
enterprising spirit of a number of the sons of liberty, who,
animated with the glorious example of the brave action at
Concord, were inspired to make those acquisitions to the
United Colonies of which your Honours have received in-
telligence, viz: the sovereignty of Lake Champlain, and the
fortresses thereon, with an armed sloop and all the boats on
the lake, and also took into possession a schooner, which
was the property of Major Skene, and furnished it out for
war. These armed vessels are at present abundantly suffi-
cient to command the lake. The making these acquisi-
tions has greatly attached the Canadians, and more espe-
cially the Indians, to our interest. They have no personal
prejudice or controversy with the United Colonies, but act
upon political principles, and consequently are inclined to
fall in with the strongest side. At present ours has the ap-
pearance of it, as there are at present but about seven
hundred regular Troops in all the different Posts in Canada.
Add to this the consideration of the imperious and haugh-
ty conduct of the Troops which has much alienated the
affections of both the Canadians and Indians from them.
Probably there may soon be more Troops from England
sent there, but at present you may rely on it that Canada
is in a weak, and almost helpless condition. Two or three
thousand men, conducted by intrepid commanders, would
at this juncture make a conquest of the ministerial party in
Canada, with such additional numbers as may be suppo-
sed to vie with the re-enforcements that may be sent from
England. Such a plan would make a diversion in favour
of the Massachusetts-Bat/, who have been too much bur-
dened with the calamity that should be more general, as
all partake of the salutary effects of their merit and valour
in the defence of the liberties of America. There would,
furthermore, be this unspeakable advantage in directing the
war into Canada, that it would unite and confirm the Ca-
nadians and Indians in our interest ; and as England can
spare but a certain number of her Troops, therefore the
more she sends to defend her interest in Canada, which
at present is languid and weak, the less she can send to
Boston, or any other part of the Continent. By gaining
the sovereignty of Canada, would intercept the design of
the Queucck Bill, and greatly discourage the Ministry, who
dote much on the efficacy of it.

1 would to God America would exert herself in propor-
tion to the indignity offered her by a tyrannical Ministry.
She might mount on eagles' wings to glory. Fame is now
hovering over her head. A vast Continent must either sink
to bondage, ignominy, and exquisite horrour, or rise trium-
phant above the shackles of tyranny to immortal fame.

I hope, gentlemen, you will use your influence in for-

warding men, provision, and every article for the Army
that may be thought necessary. Blankets and provisions
are scarce. 1 might have added the article of powder.
It ought to be observed that the Colonies must first help
their friends in Canada, and then it will be in their power
to help them again.

I subscribe myself your Honours' most obedient servant,

Ethan Allen.
To the Honourable Provincial Congress of the Massachu-
setts-Bay, or the Council of War, at Watertown and
Cambridge.

proclamation by governour carleton.
By his Excellency Guy Carleton, Captain-General and
Governour-in- Chief in and over the Province of Que-
beck, and the Territories depending thereon, in Ame-
rica, Vice-Admiral of the same, and Major-General
of His Majesty's Forces, commanding the Northern

District :

a proclamation.

Whereas, a rebellion prevails in many of His Majesty's
Colonies in America, and particularly in some of the neigh-
bouring ones: and whereas, many of the said rebels have,
with an armed force, made incursions of late into this Prov-
ince, attacking and carrying away from thence a party of
His Majesty's Troops, together with a parcel of stores, and
a vessel belonging to His Majesty, and are at present ac-
tually invading this Province with arms, in a traitorous
and hostile manner, to the great terrour of His Majesty's
subjects, and in open defiance of his laws and Government ;
falsely and maliciously giving out, by themselves and their
abetters, that their motives for so doing are to prevent the
inhabitants of this Province from being taxed and oppressed
by Government, together with divers other false and sedi-
tious reports, tending to inflame the minds of the people,
and alienate them from His Majesty: To the end, there-
fore, that so treasonable an invasion may be soon defeat-
ed ; that all such traitors, with their said abetters, may be
speedily brought to justice, and the publick peace and
tranquillity of this Province again restored, which the ordi-
nary course of the civil law is at present unable to effect,
I have thought fit to issue this Proclamation, hereby de-
claring, that until the aforesaid good purpose be attained,
1 shall, in virtue of the powers and authority to me given
by His Majesty, execute martial law, and cause the same
to be executed throughout this Province, and to that end,
1 shall order the Militia within the same to be forthwith
raised ; but as a sufficient number of commissions to the
several officers thereof cannot be immediately made out, I
shall, in the mean time, direct all those having any militia
commissions from the Honourable Thomas Gage, the Hon-
ourable James Murray, Ralph Burton, and Frederick
Haldimand, Esquires, heretofore H's Majesty's Govern-
ours in this Province, or either of them, to obey the same,
and execute the powers therein mentioned, until they
shall receive orders from me to the contrary; and I do
accordingly, in His Majesty's name, hereby require and
command all his subjects in this Province, and others
whom it may concern, on pain of disobedience, to be aid-
ing and assisting such commissioned officers, and others
who are or may be commissioned by me, in the execution
of their said commissions for His Majesty's service.

Given under my hand and seal of arms, at Montreal,
this ninth day of June, 1775, in the fifteenth year of the
reign of our Sovereign Lord George the Third, by the
grace of God, of Great Britain, France, and Ireland,
King, Defender of the Faith, and so forth.

Guy Carleton.
By his Excellency's command :

H. T. Cramahe.

GOVERNOUR TRUMBULL TO THE PRESIDENT OK THE CON-
TINENTAL CONGRESS.

Lebanon, June 9, 1775.

Sir: I have received your letters of the 31st May and
1st June, enclosing the resolves of the honourable Conti-
nental Congress of the same dates. By a wonderful coin-
cidence of counsels the first was nearly complied with
before the receipt of it.

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CORRESPONDENCE, PROCEEDINGS, kc, JUNE, 1775.

942

Colonel Benjamin Hinman is appointed to the com-
mand of the troops at Ticonderoga, consisting of one thou-
sand men from this Colony, well armed, and furnished
with one pound of powder and three pounds of ball to
each man, with flints sufficient; besides this we have also
sent there about eight hundred pounds of powder. Col-
onel Hinman is a gentleman, in whom we trust full confi-
dence may be placed. On giving my orders to him, (dated
29th of May, 1775,) instructed him to keep up the strictest
vigilance to prevent any hostile incursions from being made
into the settlements in the Province of Quebcck.

In compliance with the other resolution of Congress, I
have appointed a Commissary to receive at Albany, and
forward the supplies of provisions for the forces on Lake
Champlain, with directions to him, with advice of Colonel
Hinman, to employ such others under him as that service
shall appear to require.

1 am, with great truth and regard, Sir, your most obedi-
ent humble servant, Jonathan Trumbull.

To Hon. John Hancock, Esquire.

the Committee of Safety, for raising a company of Ran-
gers in the Province of the Massachusetts-Bay, for the
defence of the liberties of America. And that your peti-
tioner, judging said men to be greatly wanted, exerted
himself to raise a company, and expended upwards of
twelve Pounds, lawful money, in effecting the same, and
marched them from the remotest part of this Province,
greatly against the minds of the inhabitants where they
came from, on account of the commotions to the north-
ward ; but as your petitioner was under no regular estab-
lishment from authority to go that way, I marched my men
forward towards Head-Quarters at Cambridge, and came
as far as Worcester, where they now, by my orders, remain.
1 do, therefore, at the earnest request of the Committees
and principal inhabitants of sundry Towns from whence
they came, earnestly pray this honourable Congress that 1
may be regularly appointed, by the authority of this Prov-
ince, to march with my company to Ticonderoga, for the
safely and protection of the inhabitants in the northwest-
ern frontiers of this Province. And your petitioner, as in
duty bound, shall ever pray. Abiathar Angel.

ABIATHAR ANGEL TO MASSACHUSETTS CONGRESS.

Watertown, June 9, 1775.

Honoured Sir : I take this method to communicate
to you my present unhappy situation, viz: that I have a
company of men now lying at Worcester, which 1 enlisted
and brought from the remotest parts of this Province,
many of them having been in the expedition to Ticonde-
roga, and now enlisted as Rangers in the service of this
Province ; and whereas, as matters have turned, there is
not such an establishment.

I came oft* myself in the alarm after the battle of Con-
cord, from my house, one hundred and forty miles from
here, and here staid many days a volunteer, on my own
expense ; but seeing nothing of importance speedily to be
done, and that there was a regular establishment on foot
for a standing army, I received orders from David Brewer,
of Kingston, from under the hand of the honourable Com-
mittee of Safety, for enlisting a company of Rangers into
the service of this Province ; and judging the men to be
greatly wanted, I exerted myself in speedily raising and
equipping said company, and have expended above twen-
ty Pounds for said purpose, and marched my men away,
greatly against the minds of the inhabitants from whence
they came, on account of the commotions to the westward.
But being under no regular establishment to go that way,
I marched my men forward, and came as far as Worcester ;
there halted last Sunday, and came forward myself, pre-
viously hearing of some difficulties attending Colonel Brew-
er's establishment, of which you, Sir, are not unapprised.
I have been now in waiting ever since Tuesday last, en-
deavouring to obtain some orders and directions from the
honourable Congress in regard to my situation. The situ-
ation of about fifty men, who have, most of them, been
in the service near six weeks at Ticonderoga, without re-
ceiving the least consideration for the same, surely demands
some attention ; for them to be now disbanded, when they
have laid out of their business for the season, will be almost
the ruin of many ; and as they are so greatly wanted to
the westward, 1 have petitioned the House for orders to
march them to Ticonderoga, but have received as yet no
orders thereon. I most earnestly entreat you, Sir, to have
some regard to my situation, and use your influence for my
relief.

I am, Sir, your sincere friend, and most obedient ser-
vant, Abiathar Angel.

To the Honourable the Provincial Congress for the Prov-
ince of Massachusetts-Bay :
The Petition and Remonstrance of Abiathar Angel,

of Lanesborough, i;i the County of Berkshire,

humbly showeth :

That the petitioner came off from his home, one hun-
dred and forty miles from this place, a volunteer, in the
alarm after the battle of Concord, and here staid several
days on his own expense, and seeing nothing of impor-
tance to be speedily done, and that there was a regular
establishment on foot for a standing army, received orders
from Captain David Brewer, signed by the Chairman of

JOHN LANE TO THE MASSACHUSETTS CONGRESS.

Fort Pownall, June 9, 1775.
Sir : I have proceeded agreeable to my orders, as you
will see by the enclosed journal, and have got one of the
chiefs to go as an ambassador, attended by three young
men, as far as Falmouth, and I am in hopes to be able to
get them as far as Watertown. I could not have thought
that they had been so hearty in the cause, and are very
ready to assist us, if occasion requires. The Canada In-
dians are all of the same mind. The Indians are now
here, and we shall go to Casco-Bay to-morrow, when I
shall write more fully. I am, Sir, with respect, your much
obliged servant, John Lane.

Honourable Joseph Warren, Esquire.

The following is my journal to Penobscot, in behalf of
the honourable Provincial Congress:

Monday, May 22, 1775. — I received my orders from
the Congress, by James Sullivan, Esquire, Monday, and
proceeded to Falmouth, where I arrived on the 24th cur-
rent, and applied to Colonel Preble and the gentlemen
belonging to the Committee for that place, who supplied
me with some stores for the Indians. On Sunday, the
28lh of said month, set sail for Penobscot, and arrived at
Boothbay the same day. Monday morning sailed about
ten miles towards Penobscot, and meeting with a sloop at
sea, commanded by David Hanvjood, bound for Penob-
scot, which I got on board of and proceeded. Tuesday,
the 30th, arrived at a place called OwVs-Hcad, at the
mouth of Penobscot- Bay. The 31st set sail to go up the
Bay, and got up to the fort.

The first of June, when I waited on Colonel Gold-
thwait, and acquainted him of my business, who was
willing to do every thing in his power for the good of the
Province, and offered me all the assistance possible to
forward my business, and any sort of provision or clothing
that I should want for the Indians, which I accepted, and
ordered the interpreter of the fort to go with me to assist
in my business. The second day of June I went up the
river, accompanied by said interpreter and an Indian of
the Penobscot tribe, and got up to the Truck-House the
same day ; there met a number of this tribe, and informed
them of my business, among whom was an Englishman,
belonging to the St. Francois tribe, who gave me the great-
est assurance of his utmost abilities to engage the St. Fran-
cois tribe in our behalf, and doubted not but he could
accomplish it; and I think this Englishman is a man
of truth, by the conversation I had with him, and may be
relied on. On the third I had some discourse with them,
when they agreed to go up to their village to bring their
chiefs down to the Truck-House, to know their minds re-
specting going to the westward. Sunday, the fourth, four
of their chiefs, accompanied by a number of Indians, came
to the Truck-House, and after my making known my pro-
posals to them, they told me they fully understood the
nature of the thing, and, after some talk, agreed to send one
of their chiefs as an ambassador, and three of the young

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CORRESPONDENCE, PROCEEDINGS, &c, JUNE, 1775.

944

men to attend him as far as Falmouth, with me, and one
Mr. Andrew Oilman, who came in with then), who also
agreed to go with me.

On the sixth, attended the meeting of said river, Bel-
fast, Benjamin's River, and Majabigivaduce, who are
all ready, on notice, and repaired to the fort, waiting for
the Indians to come down the river to go to Casco with
me at the same time. I informed Colonel Goldthwait
what success I had met with, and who proved to me of
his being contrary to what had been represented by some
evil-minded person respecting his delivering up the can-
non to the Governour; and I am sensible, in my own mind,
he could not have acted to the contrary, not because he
was obliged to obey the Governour's orders, but that there
was not sufficient ammunition to defend it.* And I am
further convinced, by the conversation I had with him, he
is ready to give all the assistance in his power for the good
of the Province, and has been a great help to me in my
tour this way; and I don't know of any person better
qualified to act in the office he holds for the good of the
poor in that part, for I am sure neither I nor the Indians
could have been accommodated upon the river elsewhere.
He assures me that, by the advice of Congress, he will
still keep up the fort and pay the soldiers off, and wait for
the pay till its convenient for them, although at this time
there is twelve months pay due to the garrison, and which
he has paid off to the soldiers and some of the officers.
And I don't think that he ought by any means to lay
under the scandalous report that has been spread abroad
about his delivering the cannon.

Remainder per another opportunity.

ELISHA HEWES TO THE MASSACHUSETTS CONGRESS.

Penobscot River, June 9, 1775.

To Joseph Warhen, Esquire, President of the Provin-
cial Congress of the Massachusetts-Bay.
Sir : 1 have had the pleasure of being well acquaint-
ed with your uniform and unalterable principles, from
the first instant of your publickly engaging in the glorious
cause which you now so nobly lead on in the defence of.
Should your high appointment and the complicated situa-
tion of affairs under your inspection and direction, render
my scrawl too minute for your notice, I shall not won-
der. I now live on Penobscot River, about twenty-three
miles above Fort Pownall; the settlement is very new — the
first man that pitched in my neighbourhood has not been
there more than five years. 'Tis true Captain John Buck
began near ten years ago, but he lives not more than eight
miles above the fort, the inhabitants being settled about
twenty miles above him. I find this a country very good
for both tillage and grass, though at present covered with
a fine growth of pine, spruce, cedar, hemlock, &ic, and
some oak. The river excels for fish of various kinds, and
easy navigation for the largest of vessels. The people are
firmly attached to the Constitution you preside in defence
of, and I am confident will support it to the last moment
of their lives, being willing in general to encounter any
difficulty rather than yield to that band of tyrants whose
plodding pates have long been projecting methods to en-
slave us.

I am confirmed in this opinion by an anecdote or two
that have come to my knowledge since my residence
on this river, for I live in the neighbourhood of Colonel
Thomas Goldlhwait, who was a member of our Assem-
bly (as you may remember) for many years, and particu-
larly in the year 1762 ; from whom I had the following
story: Richard Jackson, Esq., was then agent for our
Province. The Colonel says that then, in some of the pri-
vate letters which he wrote after his appointment, he inti-
mated his fears that it would not be in his power to do the
Province much service, as there was a principle prevailing
in England at that time to render the Colony Assemblies
useless. The Colonel also says, that Mr. Bollan (who
was agent before Mr. Jackson) was continually warning
the General Court of this principle then prevailing in Eng-
land, and yet no doubt you remember both these gentle-
men were turned out of their agency upon a suspicion
that they were not in the interest of the Province. Cer-
tainly they were faithful as touching the most important

* Only about 600 pounds of powder.

matter, whatever part of their conduct might give umbrage
to their constituents. And there seems to be some degree
of similarity in the case of the above gentleman and Col-
onel Goldlhwait ; for one of your members, viz: Captain
John Lane, who is now here, says the Congress had re-
ceived very unfavourable accounts of the Colonel's con-
duct; whereas, on a fair and impartial examination, it will
appear that Colonel Goldthwait has been a steady, uniform
friend to our Constitution.

Should the Almighty prosper us so as to bring on an
accommodation, among other grievances I think the Green-
wich Hospital money, exacted front our American seamen,
to be a very capital one. I hope the Congress will com-
passionate the case of this infant settlement, as we have
not got to the years of tillage and raising our own bread and
clothing, and like to be shut from the privilege of importing.
We could now manufacture our own clothing, but are des-
titute of wool and flax, which is a very great grievance.

There is an island in the mouth of the river, owned by
Isaac Winslow, Esquire, as he saith, which contains six or
seven thousand acres. I first settled on it ; there are ten
or twelve families, of good Connecticut men, who are hearty
in our cause, and should hold what they have taken in their
own right ; the rest should be deemed forfeit. This is my
private opinion, made publick to none but you.

Pray excuse the want of order in these hints from, hon-
ourable Sir, your humble servant, in haste,

Elisha Hewes.

P. S. I have wrote by this opportunity to Joseph Hewes,
Esq., in the Continental Congress ; we are brothers' chil-
dren, and were brought up together in the same family.
Your favour in forwarding is prayed by, Sir, &c.

JOSEPH HAWLEY TO THE HONOURABLE JOSEPH WARREN*.

Northampton, June 9, 1775.

Dear Sir: In my letter sent yesterday in great haste,
I suggested some broken hints respecting Ticonderoga. I
am still in agonies for the greatest possible despatch to
secure that pass. I don't call it an acquisition, for it don't
merit that epithet ; nor can it, until more is done for main-
taining it than I have yet heard of. It is clear that it is
necessary we should take precisely the same measures for
retaining that post, as if the country of Canada was in the
full possession of the French. Nay, I believe we have
more to fear from that quarter than if France alone held
Canada. I think there is much reason to apprehend that
Britain and France will, and do act jointly against America,
and nothing more probable than that they design, in their
partition of America, that the Province of Quebeck, as lately
defined, shall be ceded or given up to France. I most
heartily wish that every member of our Congress, yea,
every inhabitant of the Province, had a true idea of the
infinite importance and consequence of that station. If
Britain, while they are in hostility against Neiv-England,
hold that post, they will, by means thereof, be able to do
more to vanquish and subdue us from that quarter, than they
will be able to do in all other parts of the continent ; yea,
more than they could do in all other parts of the globe. If
Britain should regain and hold that place, they will be
able soon to harass and waste, by the savages, all the bor-
ders of New-England, eastwards of Hudson's River and
southeast of Lake Champlain and the River St. Lawrence,
and shortly, by the Lake Champlain, to march an army to
Hudson's River, to subdue the feeble and sluggish efforts
of the inhabitants on that river, and so to connect Montreal
and New-York ; and then New-England will be wholly
environed by sea and land, east, west, north, and south.
The chain of the Colonies will be entirely and irreparably
broken; the whole Province of New- York will be fully
taken into the interest of Administration ; and this very pass
of Ticonderoga is the post and spot where all this mischief
may be withstood and resisted; but if that is relinquished
or taken from us, desolation must come in upon us like a
flood. I am bold to say, (for I can maintain it,) that the
General Congress would have not advised to so destructive
a measure, if they had recommended and prescribed that
our whole Army, which now invests Boston, should in-
stantly decamp, and march with all the baggage and artil-
lery to Worcester, and suffer Gage's Army to ravage what

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CORRESPONDENCE, PROCEEDINGS, he, JUNE, 1775.

94C

part of the country they pleased. Good God! what could
be their plan. If they intend defence, they must be unac-
quainted with the geography of the country, or never ad-
verted to the matter. The design of seizing that post was
gloriously conceived; but to what purpose did our forces
light there, if they are now to fly away from there. Cer-
tainly to no good purpose, but to very bad and destructive
purposes; for by this step Geneial Carhton is alarmed.
Whereas if this step had not been taken, his proceedings
might have been slow and with some leisure ; but now, if
he is worthy of command, he will exert himself to the ut-
most, and proceed with despatch. If we maintain the post,
the measure of taking it was glorious. If we abandon it,
the step will turn out to have been a destructive one.

I am informed that Connecticut have ordered five hundred
men for that place. What number they have proposed that
this Province should send, I have not heard. I hope that
a moment's time will not be lost before a proper number
get on their way thither, if it is posssible that they can be
furnished with so much ammunition as will make them of
any service when they shall arrive there. I shan't presume
to say any more, what more 1 conceive to be fittest for this
service ; perhaps I went too far on that head in my last.
Instead of seeing men march eastward from the County of
Berkshire, (as they have within these two days.) I hope to
see some marching westward for Ticonderoga. I think it
would be best to importune Connecticut to spare some more
gunpowder to that place, we paying them for a part or all
of it, as they have had a late arrival of at least two tons
since they sent five hundred pounds for that place. All
that I can say on that head is, that they and we must do as
well as we can. As to supplies of victuals, there can be
no difficulty of procuring a sufficiency on Hudson's River
and in Berkshire County, if proper persons, with the need-
ful, are appointed for that purpose.

I think, Sir, that Connecticut have good pretensions to
appoint the commanding or chief officer there, and hope,
Sir, that we shall not make any difficulty about it, but fully
cede that prerogative to them.

I purpose to set out for Congress the day after to-morrow ;
but as the case of Ticonderoga calls for the greatest des-
patch, 1 could not endure the loss of a day before 1 com-
municated more of my mind to you. You will use these
hints, Sir, as you please.

I am, Sir, with great truth and best regards, your Honour's
friend and most humble servant, Joseph Hawley.

Honourable Joseph Warren, Esq., at Watertown.

Whitehall, June 10, 1775.

Lieutenant Nunn, of the Navy, arrived this morning at
Lord Dartmouth's, and brought letters from General Gage,
Lord Percy, and Lieutenant-Colonel Smith, containing the
following particulars of what passed on the nineteenth of
April last between a detachment of the King's Troops in
the Province of Massachusetts- Bay, and several parties of
rebel Provincials, viz :

General Gage having received intelligence of a quantity
of military stores being collected at Concord, for the avowed
purpose of supplying a body of troops to act in opposition
to His Majesty's Government, detached, on the eighteenth
of April at night, the Grenadiers of his Army, and the
Light-Infantry, under the command of Lieutenant-Colonel
Smith, of the Tenth Regiment, and Major Pitcairn, of the
Marines, with orders to destroy the said stores; and the
next morning eight Companies of the Fourth, the same
number of the Twenty-Third and Forty-Ninth, and some
Marines, marched under the command of Lord Percy, to
support the other detachment.

Lieutenant-Colonel Smith finding, after he had advanced
some miles on his march, that the country had been alarmed
by the firing of guns and ringing of bells, despatched six
Companies of Light-Infantry, in order to secure two bridges
on different roads beyond Concord, who, upon their arrival
at Lexington, found a body of the country people under
arms, on a green close to the road ; and upon the King's
Troops marching up to them, in order to inquire the reason
of their bu-ing so assembled, they went off in great confu-
sion, and several guns were fired upon the King's Troops
from behind a stone wall, and also from the meeting-house
and other houses, by which one man was wounded, and

Fouhtu Sekies. — Vol. n. GO

Major Pitcairn' s horse sho* in two places. In consequence
of this attack by the rebels, the troops returned the fire and
killed several of them. After which the detachment marched
on to Concord without any thing further happening, where
they effected the purpose for which they were sent, having
knocked off" the trunnions of three pieces of iron ordnance,
burnt some new gun carriages and a great number of car-
riage-wheels, and thrown into the river a considerable quan-
tity of flour, gunpowder, musket-balls, and other articles.
Whilst this service was performing, great numbers of the
rebels assembled in many parts, and a considerable body of
them attacked the Light-Infantry, posted at one of the
bridges, on which an action ensued, and some few were
killed and wounded.

On the return of the Troops from Concord, they were
very much annoyed, and had several men killed and wound-
ed by the rebels firing from behind walls, ditches, trees,
and other ambushes; but the brigade, under the command
of Lord Percy, having joined them at Lexington with two
pieces of cannon, the rebels were for a while dispersed ;
but as soon as the troops resumed their march, they began
to fire upon them from behind stone walls and houses, and
kept up in that manner a scattering fire during the whole
of their march of fifteen miles, by which means several
were killed and wounded ; and such was the cruelty and
barbarity of the rebels, that they scalped and cut off" the
ears of some of the wounded men who fell into their hands.

It is not known what numbers of the rebels were killed
and wounded, but it is supposed that their loss was con-
siderable.

General Gage says that too much praise cannot be given
to Lord Percy for his remarkable activity during the whole
day ; and that Lieutenant-Colonel Smith and Major Pit-
cairn did every thing that men could do, as did all the
officers in general, and that the men behaved with their
usual intrepidity.

Return of the Commission, Non-commission Officers, and
Rank and File, killed, wounded, prisoners, and missing,
on the 19th of April, 1775:

Fourth, or the King's own Regiment : Lieut. Knight,
killed ; Lieutenant Gould, wounded and prisoner ; three
sergeants and one drummer wounded ; five rank and file
killed, twenty-one wounded, and eight missing.

Fifth Regiment: Lieutenant Thomas Baker, Lieutenant
William Cox, Lieutenant Thomas Hawkshaw, wounded ;
five rank and file killed, fifteen wounded, and one missing.

Tenth Regiment: Lieutenant-Colonel Francis Smith,
Captain Lawrence Parsons, and Lieutenant Wald Kelly,
killed ; Ensign Jeremiah Lester, wounded ; one rank and
file killed, thirteen wounded, and one missing.

Twenty-Third Regiment : Lieut. Colonel Berry Ber-
nard, wounded ; four rank and file killed, twenty-six wound-
ed, and six missing.

Thirty-Eighth Regiment: Lieutenant William Suther-
land, wounded ; one sergeant wounded; four rank and file
killed, and eleven wounded.

Forty-Third Regiment : Lieutenant Hull, wounded and
prisoner ; four rank and file killed, five wounded, and two
missing.

Forty-Seventh Regiment: Lieutenant Donald Mc Cloud
and Ensign Henry Baldwin, wounded ; one sergeant wound-
ed, five rank and file killed, and twenty-one wounded.

Fifty-Second Regiment : one sergeant missing, three
rank and file killed, and two wounded.

Fifty-Ninth Regiment : three rank and file killed, and
three wounded.

Marines : Captain Souter, and Second Lieutenant Mc-
Donald, wounded ; Second Lieutenant Isaac Potter, mis-
sing; one sergeant killed, two wounded, and one missing;
one drummer killed, twenty-five rank and file killed, thirty-
six wounded, and five missing.

Total : One Lieutenant-Colonel killed ; two Lieutenant-
Colonels wounded ; two Captains wounded ; nine Lieu-
tenants wounded; one Lieutenant missing; two Ensigns
wounded ; one Sergeant killed, four wounded, two missing :
one Drummer killed, one wounded; sixty-two rank and file
killed, one hundred and fifty-seven wounded, and twenty-
four missing.

N. B. Lieutenant Isaac Potter reported to be wounded
and taken prisoner. Thomas Gage.

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CORRESPONDENCE, PROCEEDINGS, &c, JUNE, 1773.

918

TO THE PUBLICK.

London, June 12, 1775.

When the news of a massacre first arrived, the pensioned
writer of the Gazette entreated the publick "to suspend
their judgment, as Government had received no tidings of
the matter." It was added " that there was every reason to
expect despatches from General Gage, by a vessel called
the Sukey."

The publick have suspended their judgment ; they have
waited the arrival of the Sukti/: and the humane part of
mankind have wished that the fetal tale related by Captain
Derby might prove altogether fictitious. To the great
grief of every thinking man, this is not the case. We are
now in possession of both the accounts. The Americans
have given their narrative of the massacre ; the favourite
official servants have given a Scotch account of the skirmish.
In what one material fact do the two relations, when con-
trasted with each other, disagree? The Americans said
" that a detachment of the King's Troops advanced towards
Concord ; that they attempted to secure two bridges on dif-
ferent roads beyond Concord ; that when they reached Lex-
ington, they found a body of Provincials exercising on a
green ; that on discovering the Provincial Militia thus em-
ployed, the King's Troops called out to them to disperse,
damned them for a parcel of rebels, and killed one or two,
as the most effectual method of intimidating the rest." This
the writer of the Scotch account in the Gazette styles,
" marching up to the rebels to inquire the reason of being
so assembled." Both relations, however, agree in this, that
a question was asked ; the pensioned varnisher only say-
ing that it was asked in a civil way, attended with the loss
of blood.

Thus far, then, the facts, in every material circumstance,
precisely agree ; and as yet, we have every reason to be-
lieve that the Salem Gazette is to the full as authentick as
our Government paper, which, as a literary composition,
is a disgrace to the Kingdom.

The Salem Gazette assured us that the King's Troops
were compelled to return from Concord ; that a handful of
militia put them to rout, and killed and wounded several as
they fled. Is this contradicted in the English Gazette?
Quite the contrary ; it is confirmed. The Scotch account
of the skirmish acknowledges that, "on the hasty return of
the Troops from Concord, they were very much annoyed,
and several of the men killed and wounded." The Scotch
account also adds, "that the Provincials kept up a scatter-
ing fire during the whole of the march of the King's Troops
of fifteen miles, by which means several of them were
killed and wounded." If the American Militia " kept up
a scattering fire on the King's Troops, of fifteen miles,"
the Provincials must have pursued, and the Regulars must
have fled, which confirms the account given in the Salem
Gazette, wherein it is asserted that the Regulars " were
forced to retreat." Whether they marched like mules at a
funeral, or whether they fled like the relations and friends
of the present Ministry who were amongst the rebel army
at the battle of Cullodon, is left entirely to the conjecture
of the reader; though it should seem that a scattering fire,
poured in upon a retreating enemy for fifteen miles together,
would naturally, like goads applied to the sides of oxen,
make them march off as fast as they could.

The Scotch account, in our English Gazette, relates dread-
ful things respecting " the cruelty and barbarity of the rebels,
who scalped and cut off the ears of some of the wounded
men." If the publick have any aversion to being imposed
upon, they need only refer to the affidavits of the Lieuten-
ants, and the rest of the King's force, who were wounded
and taken prisoners. In those affidavits the parties freely,
and of their own accord make oath, that " although the
King's Troops began the bloody business, and thus provoked
the Provincials to a rage that might have justified merciless
revenge, yet the Provincials behaved with unparalleled mo-
deration, and had exercised every virtuous office humanity
could suggest to such of the King's Troops as had fallen
into their hands." Whether, therefore, is the greater credit
to be paid, to the oaths of the parties who experienced this
tenderness, or to the naked assertion of a pensioned var-
nisher, who trumps up a Scotch account of the matter,
manifestly to serve the purpose of Ministry, by glossing
over murders, for the perpetration of which their heads
should instantly be struck off. The Gazette writer con-

cludes his narrative, by informing the publick that General
Gage says " that too much praise cannot be given to Lord
Percy for his remarkable activity during the whole day."

The publick will think this a very singular kind of com-
pliment. The preceding part of the narrative had told a
story about the troops marching, or, in plainer English, re-
treating from Lexington ; they did not halt, but continued
their retreat for fifteen miles. What then are we to under-
stand by the " remarkable activity of Lord Percy?" His
personal bravery is too well known to leave room for sus-
picion that he ever would shew "remarkable activity" in
retreating. Yet the Scotch account in the Gazette leaves
the compliment so ambiguous, that an invidious reader
might suppose Lord Percy made it, like the swift-footed
Achilles, with a light pair of heels. It is not surprising
that General Gage should wish to pay his court at North-
umberland house ; but when he pays another compliment,
as he cannot write himself, he should entrust a better hand
than the pensioned compiler of the Gazitte.

To reason on the facts, which are now indisputable, is a
task which will better suit some future opportunity. The
publick have but to ponder on the melancholy truths thus
attested by Government. The sword of civil war is drawn,
and if there is truth in Heaven, the King's Troops un-
sheathed it. Will the English Nation much longer suffer
their fellow-subjects to be slaughtered ?

It is a shameful fallacy to talk about the supremacy of
Parliament. It is the despotism of the Crown, and the
slavery of the people, which the Ministry aim at. For re-
fusing those attempts, and for that only, the Americans have
been inhumanly murdered by the King's Troops.

Englishmen ! weigh these things with deliberation ; make
the case your own. If the massacre of brethren will not
open your eyes, they deserve to be forever shut against your
welfare. Away with the canting piety of a Court ! Away
with the affected candour of tools in office ! Ministry are
so candid that they would disguise the truth, and so pious
that they would take the sacrament as barbarians keep ca-
rousals, and drink of the cup, if it was but filled with the
libations of the blood of freemen.

STRICTURES ON THE GAZETTE ACCOUNT OF THE ACTION
BETWEEN THE PROVINCIALS AND THE REGULARS, NEAR
BOSTON. London, June, 1775.

We must give the Ministry credit for the little cunning
of putting General Gage's name to the end of the whole
account, when in truth it was to (he return only. This is
a trick, or, as Lord Sandwich would say, a " take in," and
suits at once their genius and their capacity. The truth is,
that the whole was culled out of a variety of letters by
two Secretaries, their Sub-Secretaries, and office Clerks.
Though I do not conceive General Gage to be a Casar or
a Wolfe, yet I know him incapable of writing such stuff as
is here indirectly imputed to him.

The Ministry were exceedingly puzzled between the
shame of being themselves obliged to refute the charge of
cowardice, which they have been so forward to urge against
the Americans, and the reproach of having commenced a
civil war, by a wanton and unprovoked murder of the peo-
ple. Of two evils, the Ministry chose the least ; and, as
men who have neither wisdom nor veracity generally cor-
rect one extravagance by another, a small body of those
cowardly poltron Americans, millions of whom were to
fly before the face of the Regulars, are represented as
daring enough to attack the flower of General Gage's
Army.

The Gazette tells us, " that General Gage detached in
the night the Grenadiers and Light-Infantry of his army,
to destroy some stores at Concord."

Every one knows that this description comprehends the
best and most active troops of the whole body. They
have the advantage, too, of stealing a march upon the peo-
ple. We might have expected some enterprise and ex-
ploit of moment and magnitude, equal to the preparation,
the secrecy, and confidence of this expedition. But, alas !
the trunnions of three old iron ordnance are the vast ob-
ject of this mighty achievement. Some flour, musket-
balls, and gunpowder, were also thrown into the river. I
should ho glad to know what motive could induce the
King's Troops to throw away articles so useful to them-

•»

949

CORRESPONDENCE, PROCEEDINGS, &tc, JUNE, 1775.

950

selves, bul the distress occasioned by — a precipitate re-
treat ?

However, the Ministry go on to inform us, " that whilst
this prodigious service was performing, the rebels assem-
bled, and a considerable body of them attacked the Light-
Infantry posted at one of the bridges, on which an action
ensued." Well, and who were defeated ? Not a word of
that, but — " a few were killed and wounded." These das-
tardly Americans march up and attack the best of the
Regulars, advantageously posted ; and we are left to con-
clude, from their continuing to annoy, kill, and wound the
troops on their return (as it is generally termed) from Con-
cord, that the Light-Infantry were driven from their post
and defeated. All this we should readily admit, on the
credit of the Gazette, had not the former assurances of the
Ministry, that the Americans were too cowardly ever to
face the Regulars, rendered it utterly incredible.

But let us accompany the Army in its return, and we
find them met by Lord Percy, at Lexington, with sixteen
companies and the Marines, amounting in all to about
twelve hundred men, with two pieces of cannon. We have
now almost the whole army that was collected at Boston,
under so active a leader as Lord Percy, with the assistance
of Colonel Smith and Major Pitcairn, " doing every thing
(so says the Gazette) that men could do," and two pieces
of cannon. We may now expect that not a man of the
unheaded poltron Provincials will be left alive. Not quite
so bad. The Gazette tells us dryly, that " the rebels were
for a while dispersed."

They were so dispersed, however, that " as soon as the
troops resumed their march," (not their flight,) they began
again to fire upon them, and continued it during the whole
of fifteen miles march, "by which means several were kill-
ed and wounded."

If this was not a flight, and if Lord Percy's activity was
not in running away, 1 should be glad to know where were
the flanking parties of this army on its march, with all this
Light-Infantry ? Would any commanding officer suffer such
an enemy to continue killing and wounding his troops, from
stone-walls and houses, if it was not a defeat and flight?
Would they have left so many of their wounded to fall into
the enemy's hands? I feel lor the honour of the British
Troops, though the Ministry do not. This Gazette will
proclaim their disgrace throughout all Europe ; and yet I
think, that when the military lend themselves to fight
against the freedom of their fellow-subjects, they deserve
to be both disgraced and defeated.

Take, then, the whole of this account as it stands, and
to what does it amount, but that General Gage's Army
having marched out of Boston in the night, was attacked
by the Militia, hastily assembled, without a leader, and was
driven back, with the loss of sixty-five killed, one hundred
and eighty wounded, and twenty-eight taken prisoners,
making in all two hundred and seventy-three.

In the mean time the Ministers, who have thus involved
us in disgrace and blood, are perfectly unconcerned. They
comfort themselves with throwing out some shameful re-
flections on the Americans, and boast of the activity of
their officers and the intrepidity of their troops. They have
not sense to perceive, that the more they exaggerate the
bravery and conduct of the Regulars, the more they extol
their opponents, whom they and their Scotch tools have
been traducing, both publickly and privately, as the most
abject cowards. What must the resolution of that Militia
be, which could drive these active and intrepid Regulars,
with loss and confusion, back into their intrenchments ?
In fact this superiority does not arise from any difference
between the English and the Americans, but from the
one contending in the cause of tyranny, and the other in
that of liberty. It never has entered into the hearts of
these wretched Ministers and their tools, to feel or conceive
the enthusiasm and valour which so good and noble a cause
inspires. Is it not, therefore, wonderful that they should
not foresee its effects ?

The charge of scalping is of the same complexion with
those which they have constantly made, and which we have
as constantly found to be false. It is like those of Bernard
and Hutchinson, made in such general terms that it cannot
have a particular refutation. Had they mentioned the
names of those men who were thus treated, we might then
have sought them out to refute the falsehood ; but no, they

content themselves with saying, the Provincials "scalped
and cut off the ears of some of the wounded ;" which I
very sincerely believe to be an infamous falsehood, because
we have had affidavits from several of the wounded prison-
ers, acknowledging the kindest treatment ; and it is most
certain that General Ward sent word to General Gage,
" that his surgeons were at liberty to come into the Pro-
vincial camp and attend the wounded prisoners, if General
Gage had more confidence in them than in the Provincial
surgeons." The publick will hardly believe that so fair
and generous an enemy could be guilty of barbarity and
cruelty, because an unfair and ungenerous Ministry are
their accusers.

The Gazette tells us " that the Troops, on seeing some
Provincials drawn up at Lexington, marched up to them."
For what purpose do you think, gentle reader ? to ask the
civilest question in the world, " the reason of their being
so assembled." But the Militia not being apprised of their
very civil intentions, " went off in great confusion ;" and
yet, to our utter astonishment, we are in the next line told
that this confounded and flying enemy immediately began
an attack upon the victorious Regulars, wounding one man,
and, what was an inexpiable offence, shot a Scots officer's
Scots poney ! It is, I believe, the first time in the world
that one army marched up to another to " ask questions."
We have heard of Parthians wounding as they fled, but I
did not know this was the American method. Surely they
might have told a more plausible story, to make us believe
the Americans were the aggressors ; but the Ministry have
so often imposed on our credulity, that they think any thing
will suffice. The presumption arising from this very de-
tail, compared with that of Lieutenant Gould's affidavit,
and the positive oaths of a variety of witnesses, render it
unquestionable that the King's Troops began the fire, and
that, too, upon a small body of Provincials who were dis-
persing.

The whole of this business is shocking in itself, danger-
ous in its consequences ; nor can any thing comfort us under
the evils attending it, but a trust that the wicked authors of
it will soon be brought to condign punishment.

I am of opinion that children unborn will not alone have
occasion to lament the bloody and inhuman carnage of
Lexington. Some men, whose advice has tended to pro-
duce so unhappy a scene, and whose abilities have since
been prostituted in misrepresenting and reviling their coun-
trymen, may have cause to join in the general lamentation.

The hypocritical eye of Mr. H may once more weep,

and even Coriolanus* may shed a tear from a different
cause than that of virtuous compunction. Coriolanus' s
friend and adviser, the late Major of Brigade, will meet
with a reception worthy of his treachery ; and the noble
Lord who has been his dupe, will find that he has bestow-
ed rewards on a person unworthy of his confidence. His
engagement to bribe the Members of the Continental Con-
gress, and to raise ten thousand men to join the Parlia-
mentary Army, showed the extremity of impudence. He
must have known that he was deceiving the Secretary of
State, and his Lordship ought to be ashamed of his own
puerile credulity. The solicitations of modest virtuous
merit, have by him been often rejected, and the most for-
ward and wicked incendiaries countenanced and promoted.
Coriolanus has been extremely liberal in charging his coun-
trymen with treason and rebellion. I shall not lose so
much time as to discuss this question with him. It would
necessarily lead ine to the examination of the right of taxa-
tion.

All the disorders of America have arisen from that
source, and I defy him to derive them from any other. If
the Parliament have not a right to tax America, they have
no right to send troops to compel submission. If compul-
sion be attempted, resistance is justifiable. The greatest
authorities that ever this Country produced might be cited
to prove this. I forbear mentioning the names of Sidney
and Locke, of Chatham, and Camden. Their doctrines
are obsolete, and too uncourtly for the ear of a young di-
vine, newly flattered with the pomp of a professorship in
divinity, and gratified with the more substantial acquisition
of two hundred Pounds a year. I appeal to Judge Black-
stone; he cannot be suspected of partiality in favour of the
people in opposition to sovereign power. In his seventh
* A writer for the Ministry in the publick papers.

951

CORRESPONDENCE, PROCEEDINGS, kc, JUNE, 1775.

952

chapter, which treats of the rights of persons, lie says,
" All oppressions which may happen to spring from any
hranch of the sovereign power, must necessarily he out of
the reach of any stated rule or express legal provision ; hut
if ever they unfortunately happen, the prudence of the
times must provide new remedies upon new emergencies."
And again, " It is found by experience that whenever the
u