^
"^i
THE NEW YORK PUBLIC LIBRARY
REFERENCE DEPARTMENT
" >^y^ This book is under no circumstances to be V^</^
"•^*t^, taken from the Building '"
WMi^
/
\C
JOURNALS
PROVINCIAL CONGRESS
MASSACHUSETTS
y —"JJ
Til i;
JOURNALS
PROVINCIAL CONGRESS
MASSACHUSETTS
IN ITT* AND 1TT5,
AND OF THE
COMMITTEE OF SAFETY,
WITH
AN APPENDIX,
CONTAINING
THE PROCEEDINGS OF THE COUNTY CONVENTIONS— NARRATIVES OF
THE EVENTS OF THE NINETEENTH OF APRIL, 1775— PAPERS
RELATING TO TICONDEROGA AND CROWN POINT,
AND
OTHER DOCUMENTS,
ILLUSTRATIVE OF THE EARLY HISTORT OF THE AMERICAN REVOLUTION.
PUBLISHED AGREEABLY TO A RESOLVE PASSED MARCH 10, 1837,
UNDER THE SUPERVISION OF
WILLIAM LINCOLN.
DUTTON AND WENTWORTH. PRINTERS TO THE STATE.
Cheelred
May I9'j
1838.
THE NEW YORK
'PUBLIC LIBRARY
j 39x9:^3 I
I A3TOR, LENOX AP^D >
I TILD.
APVD
1 N r II O D U C T 1 O i\ .
By a resolve of the legislature of the Commonwealth,
approved March 10, 1857, the governor was authorized
to procure the publication of the Journals of each Pro-
vincial Congress of Massachusetts, and of such papers
connected with those records, as would illustrate the
patriotic exertions of the people of the state in the rev-
olutionary contest. The subscriber had the honor of
being appointed to caij'y this resolve into effect, by His
Excellency Edavard Everett, at whose suggestion
measures were first adopted for perpetuating and multiply-
ing copies of these memorials of the history of that period
when the authority of the crown had been overthrown,
and the powers of government were exercised by the
people in their primary assemblies.
The journal of the first Provincial Congress, formed
at Salem, on the seventh of October, 1774, and dissolved
on the tenth day of December following, was recorded by
Benjamin Lincoln, Esq., the clerk, afterwards distin-
guished by civic and military honors. The brave and
wise men uniting in that assembly, might have foreseen
through the gloomy shadow of impending war, the im-
11 INTRODUCTION.
portance of the consequences to result from their acts,
but they could not realize the value the gratitude of pos-
terity would attach to the memorials of their doings.
The legislature had been driven from its ancient seat,
and the depositaries of the public records were in the
hands of an armed enemy. The documents relating to
the proceedings of the first Congress, entrusted to the
custody of members, whose minds w^ere devoted to the
great political events of the day, and who soon engaged
in the active duties of the field, w^ere dispersed and
have perished. Returns had been procured of the mili-
tia, munitions of war, manufactures, and resources of
the towns. Letters, petitions, and other communica-
tions were received, showing the spirit of the times, and
the progress of the preparations for resistance of usur-
pation. All these have been lost, and no papers from
the files, once so rich, have been preserved. It is not
improbable, that in the confusion occasioned by the sud-
den march of the British troops to Concord, the docu-
ments exhibiting the weakness of the province in martial
stores, as well as the strength of its patriotism, were de-
stroyed.
The journal of the Second Provincial Congress, which
met at Cambridge, February 1, 1775, kept in part by
the same careful clerk, and partly by Samuel Freeman,
Esq., suffered mutilation before it was placed in the
archives of the Commonwealth. The official records of
this assembly, from May 21, 1775, to its dissolution, are
INTRODUCTION. Ill
not known to exist, and hut few of the reports, and lit-
tle of the evidence, on which its [)roceedings were
founded, have been retained.
The Third Provincial Congress convened on the thir-
ty-first day of May, 1775, and Samuel Fimikmav, Esq.
was elected secretary. The labors of the recording offi-
cer of a body exercising the legislative and executive
powers of government, in that stormy period, called
hour by hour to issue orders to the army and the towns,
must have been oppressive. From that part of the
original records which has been preserved, it is appa-
rent, that the memoranda taken amid the heavy pres-
sure of engagements, and filled with references to re-
ports and documents afterwards to be inserted, were
designed to be perfected by future revision. The time
which elapsed before they were transcribed in the fair
volume now in the archives of the state, prevented the
omissions from being fully supplied.
Long after the two earliest assemblies had separated,
copies of their journals were prepared with extraordi-
nary neatness. The waste of years was irreparable,
and the beauty of the transcript gives slight consolation
for the imperfection of its contents.
So far as was possible, the fulness of the original jour-
nals has been restored in this edition : many resolutions
and papers have been recovered and restored from con-
IV INTRODUCTION.
temporary newspapers and publications, and from other
authentic sources.
The text of the original journals has been carefully
preserved, and the variations introduced by later writers,
except such as were too inconsiderable to be matter of
importance or curiosity, have been indicated.
Documents elucidating the subjects of action or de-
bate, have been placed in connection with the proceed-
ings of each Congress, and some brief explanatory notes
occasionally added.
Preparations for defence, and the execution of im-
portant measures pointed out by each Congress, were
confided to the committees of safety and of supplies.
The proceedings of these bodies while their sessions
■were held in union, and of the former, after the increas-
ing weight of labor and responsibility I'endered a divis-
ion of duties necessary, were closely connected with the
acts of the assemblies conferring the powers exercised
for the common good. The journals, preserved with
many imperfections, have been inserted in this volume.
The resolutions of the conventions held in the several
counties, were of deep interest, and it is hoped, will be
deemed appropriate additions to those of the represen-
tatives of the state. The whole journal of the local as-
semblv held in Worcester, redeemed from the destruc-
INTRODUCTION. V
tioii wiiicli lias ovcrulu-lmcd so man}' of" the memorials
ol" the revolution, has been printed with ihe noliees of
the acts of the other communities, unfortunately less
full, but the most complete which could be obtained.
The records of the towais of Massachusetts, from the
first practical attempt to separate the power of tax-
ation and the right of representation, to the termi-
nation of the war of independence, are filled with pa-
pers breathing an ardent spirit of patiiotism. On their
pages are eloquent vindications of the principles of civil
liberty, able expositions of chartered privileges, and
bold appeals against the encroachments of the crow-n.
They bring to us the thoughts and words of the fathers
of the revolution as vividly as they rose on the minds
or came from the lips of the authors of the heroic resolu-
tions. Desirable as it was to embody these representa-
tions of the virtues of the patriots of former time, it was
found that the doings of each of the municipal republics,
formed connected series of noble acts and exertions,
spreading through many years, and that a mere selec-
tion from among the documents, made at the risk of un-
just preference, would impair the value by separation,
and possibly prevent the collection and publication of all
of these honorable relics.
Soon after the nineteenth of April, 1775, a narrative
of the events of that memorable day was prepared, sub-
stantiated by numerous depositions of witnesses of the
VI INTRODUCTION.
ravages of the British during their excursion from Bos-
ton. They were transmitted to Enghmd and to the
Continental Congress, and widely circulated, as the jus-
tification to the nation and the world, for the appeal to
arms. These have been placed in the Appendix.
Frequent references in the journals to the letters of
Arnold, and to communications relating to the capture
of the fortresses at Ticonderoga and Crown Point, ren-
dered the correspondence with Congress and the commit-
tees, a necessary supplement to the volume.
Some extracts have been made from the journals of
the Continental Congress, detailing proceedings connect-
ed with the acts of the provincial assemblies. A few
papers of interesting character, copied from the files,
have been added
A copious table of the principal subjects, and a full
index, will afford the means of ready access to the facts
spread through the pages of the work, and will render
the use more easy.
Such are the contents of this volume. It was con-
ceived to be the primary purpose of the resolve author-
izing the publication, to perpetuate materials for the histo-
ry of a glorious era in our national existence. Within
the restrictions imposed by its terms, effbrts have been
made to give to the records the best form which could
INTRODUCTION. Vll
be bestowed. It was not the object of tlic legislature to
provide lor the preparation of a new narrative of the
revolution, but to j)reserve the remains of the past. Had
it been permitted, it would have been a pleasant labor
to have drawn iiom the journals illustrations of the vir-
tues of our ancestors, and of their devotion to liberty :
the humbler duty of arranging some testimonials of their
worth, it is hoped, will be found to have been executed
with diligence and fidelity.
WILLIAM LINCOLN.
EXPLANATIONS OF THE REFERENCES.
II II Words in the original journals which havB been omitted from the copy in the archives of
the Coiiiinonwealtlj, and words different in the originnl from those in that copy, have been enclosed
by parallels : the reading of the original has bi;en follcjwi'd in this volume; tliat of tlie copy is
placed at the loot of the page with appropriate references.
||n|| The words added to the original journals in the copy before described, have been placed id
tlie margin, and the place they occupied in the public transcript indicated by a letter of reference
between parallels.
[ ] Words and passnges neither in the original nor copy, inserted in the text of this edition, are
enclosed between brackets.
[a] A letter of reference enclosed by brackets, points to some word lemoved from the text to
the margin as being supcrtluous. Words clearly erroneous in the original or copy have been
chan-fed, and those substituted have been enclosed by the same marks, while suitable reference
points to the words first used.
CONTENTS
FlllST PROVINCIAL CONGRESS OF MASSACHUSETTS.
1T74.
Ski-t. 28 — Proflamaiion of Governor Gaj^, declaring his inlention not to meet
the general court at Salein, on the 5th of October, and discharging
all persons elected as representatives from attendance,
Oct. 3 — Members elected lo the general assembly meet at Salem, and organize a
convention, .......
" 7 — Their resolutions on the refusal of tlie governor lo meet them and ad
minister the oaths, ......
Provincial Congress formed at Salem. List of the delegates. Original
territorial limits of the county of Suffolk,
Original extent of the county of Hampshire,
Incorporation of Rutland district by Uie name of Hutchinson. Proceed-
ings of the citizens, and of the general court, in relation thereto,
County of Lincoln, — Congress adjourns to meet at Concord,
" 11 — Provincial Congress meets at Concord, ....
John Hancock elected jjresident, and Benjamin Lincoln secretary. Rev
Mr. Emerson invited to act as chaplain. Monitors chosen, .
*' 12 — Committee to take into consideration the state of the province, .
" 13 — The committee reported a message to the governor, which was consider
ed and accepted, ......
Committee to present address to the governor,
" 14 — Constables, collectors of taxes, and other officers, advised not to pay
over money in their hands to the crown officer ; but to retain it, sub
ject to the order of the towns. Provincial Congress, or general asseni-
bly,
" 17 — Congress meets at Caml)ridge, .....
Answer of Governor Gage to the address of the Provincial Congress,
Referred to the committee on the state of tiie province, .
Intercepted letters of the Rev. Mr. Peters referred to the same committee
Rev. Doct. Applelon appointed chapUiin, ...
*' 18 — Sessions of tlie Congress ordered to be held with closed doors, .
The Congress determine to reply to the governor,
■• I'J — A committee appointed to incjuirc into the stale and operations of the
Brilish army, .......
Reply lo the goveruoi. reported, and recommitlcd 5 reported again, and
laid on the table, ......
•■ 20 — Report of the committee to inquire into the slate and operations of th
army. Ordered lo lie on Uic table, ....
U
3
4t
5
7
10
13
15
15
IG
16
17
19
13
20
20
21
21
22
22
22
CONTENTS.
Oct. 20 — Comniiitce to consider what is necessary for the defence and safety of the
Ijioviiice, .......
Report relative to the payment and collection of outstanding taxes,
" 21 — Kesoliilions relative to the mandamus counsellors,
Committee to pul lish the names of the mandamus counsellors, .
Committee to report a non-consumption agreement,
Committee to report a resolve for the total disuse of India teas, .
Committee to examine Riviugton's newspaper,
Resolution for the disuse of India tea, ....
" 22 — Report of the committee on the defence and safety of the province, con
sidered, and recommilled, .....
Consideration of the propriety of sending an agent to Canada referred
lo the next meeting of the Congress, ....
Day of pul)lic Thanksgiving recommended.
Report on the safety and defence of the province, amended, and recom
mitted, ..... ...
'• 24 — Committee to report the most proper time to provide a stock of powder
ordnance, &c. .......
Debates to be kept secret by the members,
Committee report that now is the most proper time for the province to
provide a stock of powder, ordnance, &c.
Committee to determine what quantity' shall be provided, and estimate
the expense, . . .....
Consideration of the report on the safety and defence of the province re
sumed, and the report recommitted, ....
" 25 — Committee on the non-consumption agreement, ordered to sit forthwith
Committee to inquire into the state of the stores in the commissary gen
eral's office, . . .....
Report on the quantity of powder and ordnance stores necessary for the
province, .......
All proceedings of Congress to be kept secret,
" 26 — Repoit on the safety and defence of the province, considered and ac
cepted, ......".
Committee to consider what military exercise will be best for the peopl
to adopt, . .....
" 27 — Committee of safety appointed, .....
Five c(miniissaries (committee of supplies) appointed.
Three general officers appointed, .....
Committee to sit during the recess of Congress,
Members of the governor's constitutional council, .
List of mandamus counsellors, .....
Reply to the governor's answer recommitted for amendments,
ftlcmbers of the governor's constitutional council desired to attend the
next session of this Congress, .....
" 28 — Hon. Samuel Dexter appointed receiver general, and excused from ser
ving, at his own request, .....
Report of the committee relative to the removal of tlie inhabitants of Bos-
ton, recommitted, ......
Henry Gardner, Esq. appointed receiver general,
Mr. Benjamin Hall chosen, in place of Mr. Grecnleaf, of the committee o
supplies, . . . - . .
Report relative to collecting and paying outstanding taxes.
Committee to report a resolve relative to a non-consumption agreement,
23
23
25
25
25
2G
27
27
27
28
28
29
29
29
29
29
30
30
31
34
35
35
35
36
36
36
36
37
37
37
38
38
38
40
CONTENTS. XI
Oct. 28— Committee to bring in a rcsolvo relaiive lo an cfiual reprosfniaiion of tlie
province in Conufn-ss, .-----. '10
Resolve inviting llic constitutional counsellois to attend liic next Con-
gress, ..-------'10
Resolve for a non-ronsiunplion agreement, .... 40
Report on the warlike stores in tlic commissary general's oflicc, - - 41
" 29 — Re))ort on a system of military exercise for the province, - - -H
Consideration of the state of the executive couits referred to the next
Congress, ........'U
Committee of safety directed to write to liie Continental Congress, show-
ing liie grounds anil reasons of the proceedings of this Congress, . -12
Reply of the Congress lo the governor's answer. A commillee appoint-
ed to i)resent it, ------- 42
Committee lo extract such parts of the proceedings of Congress, passed
on tlie 26th and 28th, as are necessary to be published, - - 45
Their report, ....--..45
Two memiiers added to the committee of safety, - . - - 48
Congress adjourned to the 23d day of November, - - - 48
Nov. 23 — Congress meet according to the adjournment, - - - - 48
Waller Spooner, one of his majesty's conslilulional council, desired lo
attend the Congress, ..--..- 48
John Adams and Robert Treat Paine desired to attend, - - - 4'J
Representatives of Massachusetts in the Continental Congress, - - 49
" 24 — Members of the Continental Congress desired to report their proceed-
ings, -.----.--49
Rev. Docl. Applelon appointed chaplain, . - - . 49
Proceetlings of the Continental Congress, reported, and committed, - 49
Petition from the officers of minute men in the northwest part of the
county of Worcester, .-..-. 50
Committee to prepare a plan for the defence and safety of the govern-
ment, required to sit forthwith, ----- 50
Committee for publishing llie names of the mandamus counsellors, to pre-
pare a report forthwith, - - - - - - 50
" 25 — Members of the constitutional council invited to take seals in the Pro-
vincial Congress, ...--.- 51
" 2G — Committee lo devise means for keeping up a correspondence with Mon-
treal and Quebec, .....-- 51
Committee to draw the form of an order with respect lo the treasurer's
giving bonds, ------.- 51
" 28 — Committee to take into consideration the state of manufactures in the
province, and how they may be improved, - - - . 52
" 29 — Commillee lo make an estimate of the injury to the province by the
operation of the Boalon port bill, - .... 52
Committee to slate ihe amount of the sums which liave been extorted
from us, since 1703, by the operation of certain acts of the British
parliament, ........52
" 30— Resolves for the appointment of five members to attend the Continental
Congress, ..-..--. 5.'^
Committee to bring in a resolve, expressing the thanks of Congress to
the other colonies, for their donations to the poor of the town of l?os-
ton, and lo prepare a brief, ... - . - 53
Letters from Dr. Franklin to Mr. Cushing referred to the provincial com-
millee of correspondence, ...--- 53
55
55
55
56
56
61
Xll CONTENTS.
Dec. 1— .Report of tlic committee on the proceedings of the Continental Congress
read, and recommitted, ....-- 54
Resolve expressing the thanks of Congress to the other colonies, for their
donations to the town of Boston, ----- 54
Commrttee to apply to the secretary for a list of the mandamus counsel-
lors, ---------
" 2 — Members to represent the province in the Continental Congress, - - ^
Committee on the state of the provmce reported, . - - - 55
" 3 — Report considered, ...----
'•' 5 — Committee to prepare an address to the clergy of the province, desiring
them to exhort the people to sustain the Congress, - . -
Report on the proceedings of the Continental Congress, - - - 66
" r — Committee to correspond with the inhabitants of Canada, . - 59
Brief to be circulated through the province to promote donations for t'he
suftering inhabitants of Boston and Charlestown, - - - 59
Address to the clergy, ....--- 60
Mandamus counsellors who have not published a renunciation of their
commissions, --------
" 7 — Committee to determine the recompense of the delegates to the Conti-
nental Congress, ...----61
Resolve for taking the mimber of inhabitants, and the quantity of the ex-
ports and imports, and of the manufactures of the province, - 61
Committee to prepare a eensiis of (lie inhabitants and a true state of tie
exports and imports, -.-----6^
" 8 — Report of the committee and resolutions of Congress relative to the en-
couragement of manufactures, ----- 62
Two general officers chosen, ------ 65
" 9 — Committee to bring in a resolve relating to an address from the Baptists
to the Congress, .....-- 65
Report of the committee relating to the public moneys in the hands of
constables and others, ------ €5
Committee to bring in a resolve relative to an article in the as^sociatjon of
tlie Continental Congress respecting foreign goods, wares, and mer-
chandise, and their report, ------ 66
Committee to consider a plan of military exercise proposed by Capt.
Timothy Pickering, ------- €7
Report of the committee on the address from the Baptists, - - 67
Thanks of Congress to the chaplain, and to the proprietors of the meet-
ing-house, --------67
Committee on a letter from the town of Hardwick, - - - 67
" 10 — Report on the letter from Hardwick, ----- 68
Form of association intended for the signature of the royalists, - - 68
Address of Congress to the freeholders and othef inhabitants of the towns
and districts of Massachusetts Bay, ----- 69
Report of the committee relative to assuming civil government, taken up,
and laid on the table, -------72
Resolve, and committee for procuring returns of the number of officers
and men of the militia, and of the minute men of the province, - 72
Report of the committee on the state of the province, - - - 73
Resolves relative to the dissolution of this Congress, and meeting of the
next, --------- 73
Report of the committee on the plan of military exercise proposed by
Capt. Pickering, read, and accepted^ - - - - 7i
CONTENTS.
Xlll
Df.c. 10 — Expense of Irausmiltiup address lo llie Canadians to l)c paid hy ihe gov-
eriiincnt, ••...... 74
The Congress dissolved, ....... 1\
SECOND PROVINCIAL CONGRESS OF MASSACHUSETTS.
1775.
Feb. 1 — Meets at Cambridfjc, ....... 77
List of the Members, ....... 77
John Hancock cliosen president, and Benjamin Lincoln, secretary, . 84
Committee to lake into consideration llic state of tiie province, . . 84
" 2 — Rev. Doct. Appleton appointed cliaj>lain, . .... 84
Monitors appointed, ....... 84
" 3 — Committee ix> extract from the journal of the last Congress what relates
to the pnl)lic taxes and the militia, and cause it to be printed, . 84
Committee to consider the xepresentations of committees of Boston and
other towns, that many of the tuhabjtants are employed in working
for the army in Boston, ...... 85
" 4 — I^ebales and resolutions of Congress to be kept secret, ... 85
Committee to publish in a pamphlet some of the doings of the last Con-
gress, and to prepare an address to the inhabitan-ts of the province, 85
" C> — Delegates lo die Continental Congress to hold their offices to theSlstday
of December, ........ 86
Resolution concerning the delegate from Walthani, ... 86
Troop of horse raised in Rowley, ...... 86
Secretary empowered to adjourn Congress in the absence of the presi-
dent, ......... 86
" 7 — Inhabitants recommended not to supply the troops in Boston with any
thing that may enable liiem to annoy the people, ... 86
Committee to consider the accounts of the late delegates to the Continen-
tal Congress, ........ 87
Address to tlie inhabitants relati\e lo the province taxes, reported and re-
committed, ........ 87
Rlembers permitted to wear hats in the sessions of Congress, . . 88
-" 8 — Address lo the inhabitants again reported and recommitted, . . 88
Committee to prepare a resolution recommending the saving of linen
j-ags, ......... 89
Jabez Fisher chosen of the committee of safety, .... 89
" 9— Committee of safety, their powers and duties, .... 89
General otBcers ap|K)inted to act under the authority of the committee
of safety, ........ 90
Elbridge Gerry, clwsen on the committee of supplies, ... 91
Address to the inliabitants of Massachusetts Bay, ... 91
Address from Scituate in relation to British troops in Marshfield, . . 93
Committee to bring in a resolve empowering the committee of safety to
take possession of the warlike stores of the province, . . 93
Committee lo bring in a resolve directing how the ordnance of the prov-
ince shall be used, ....... 94
■Committee to make returns of the militia and minute men, to report as
soon as possible, .....•• 94
XIV CONTENTS.
Feb. 9 — Committee to report a resolve for the publication of the names of the
mandamus counsellors^ ....... 94
Resolve recommending- the preservation of rags for making paper, . 94
" 10 — Committee to watch British troops said to be on the road to Cambridge, 94
Committee to sit in the recess of Congress to prepare rules and regula-
lion^ for the army, ...... .95
Committee appointed to estimate the loss to the province by reason of
the Boston port bill, reported, ..... 95
Report of committee and resolves for the pa3'ment of the delegates to the
Continental Congress, ...... 95
Committee to revise the comm.ssion of the committee of safe y, and of
the committee of supplies, ...... 9G
The secretary directed to have the names of the mandamus counsellors
published, ........ 9G
Petition from the delegates of the several towns in the counties of Hamp-
shire and Berkbhlii', ....... 96
" 11 — Report of the committee appointed to revise the commission of the com-
iiiitlee of safely, ....... 97
Resolve aulliorizing ihr appointment of a commissary, ... 97
Committee of safety requested to possess themselves of all the baj'onets
and implements of war purchased at the expense of the province, . 97
Committee to report a resolve expressing the determination of the peo-
ple to support their rights at all hazards, . . . • 97
" 13 — Committee to bring in a resolve for an inquiry into the state of the mili-
tia, ......... 98
Committee to"considcr what should be done for the encouragement of
the manuf ctuie of saltpetre, ..... 98
Committee to bring in a resolve for the appointment of an agent to Que-
bec, ......... 98
" 14 — Report of the committee on the state of the militia, ... 99
" 13 — Committee of conespondence of Boston directed to open a correspon-
dence with the inhabitants of Quebec, .... 100
Resolutions for the encouragement of the manufacture of saltpetre in the
province^ . . . . . . . .100
Form of receipt to be signed by the receiver general, , . . 101
Committee to bring in a resolve relative to the danger of the people from
the disposition of the British ministry towards them, . . . 101
Resolve relative to pedlers and petty chapmen, .... 101
John Whitcomb, elected a general oflicer, .... 102
Militia and minute men recommended to perfect themselves, forthwith, in
military discipline, ... . ... 103
Resolve for the encouragement of the manufacture of fire-arms, . . 103
Votes of Congress approving the conduct of the committees of conespon-
dence of Plymouth and other towns, ..... 103
Address of the selectmen of Pl3'mouth and other towns to General Gage, 104
Committee to confer with a deputation from Connecticut, . . 105
" 16 — Committee to correspondiwith the neighboring governments, . . 106
Resolves respecting the business anddut}- of the above committee,; . 106
Day of fasting and prayer throughout the province appointed, . . 107
Injunction of secrecy on the members removed, .... 108
Resolve providing for' the calling' together of Congress in case of emer-
gency, ......... 108
Congress adjourned to March 22d, at Concord, .... 109
CONTENTS.
XV
March 22 — Mel nceorHinjj to n<ljouriinieiil, and Kev. Mr. Kmcrson appointed
rlinplilin, ......
IK'halos iiiid resolutions to lie kept sccnM,
Conimitlce to receive llic returns of the ofl'ircrs of the militia,
Two nicnil>crs a<lded to llie comniittee on the stale ot'ilie province,
" 23 — Committee to prepare a resolve declaring the danger to the people
siiould they relax in their pre|)aralions for defence,
" 21 — Re|)orl of the comniittee, ....
'•■ 27 — The committee to ])repare rules for the army reported, .
" 28 — Report considered and recommitteii,
" 29 — Consideration resumed, recommitted for additions,
Committee to bring in a resolve introductory to publishing the names of
the mandamus counsellors, ......
" 30 — Report of the committee on the state of the province relative to what
moven)cnt of the troops siiould make it necessary to call out the militia.
Resolve, that on the calling out of the militia, members of Congress re
pair to the place to which they shall be adjourned,
Committees to sit immediately, that Congress may adjourn,
" 31 — Mandamus counsellors who have refused to publish a renunciatio'i o
their commiss'on-, and resolve for publishing their names.
Constables and a Hectors required to pay public moneys to tlie receiver
general, immediately, .....
April 1 — Committee \r prepare rules for the army report ; report passed, and af-
terwards recommitted, .....
Resolve for 'urnishing with blankets the Indians who have enlisted as
minute men. ......
Address to the Slockbridge Indians,
Committee to draught an address to the chief of the Mohawk Indian
tribes, .......
Resolve respecting duty of towns if General Gage should issue precepts
for a general assembly, ....
Resolve for choosing delegates to a new Provincial Congress,
Committee on an application from the committee of correspondence of
Hoston, ........
" 3— Resolve for collecting intelligence from Great Britain,
Committee to bring in a resolve to require the immediate attendance o
absent members, ......
" 4 — Letter to the Rev. Dr. Kirkland, with an address to the Mohawk In
dians, ........
" 5 — Rules and regulations for the Massachusetts army.
Town of Northfield desired to elect an additional member to the Con
o-rnss ........
Committee on the application of the committee of Boston and of other
towns, report, .......
" G — Application to Congress from the committees of inspection of Bristol rel
ative to an apprehended visit from his majesty's troops,
Letter to the committees of inspection of the county of Bristol, advising
them to keep the militia in the best posture of defence,
Application from Billerica and from the committee of Boston, again com
mitted, ........
Outrage by British troops in Boston upon Thomas Ditson, of Billerica,
Protest of the selectmen of Billerica to General Gage, against the cruel
outrage of his soldiers, ......
WJ
loy
109
109
110
111
111
111
IIJ
112
112
112
113
113
114
114
115
116
116
116
117
117
117
118
120
129
129
129
130
131
131
132
XVl CONTENTS.
April. 7 — Two members added to the committee on the state of the province, 132
Commiiiee to confer with Gov. Hopkins upon the present stale of public
afl'airs, ...... ... 133
Report of the committee on the application from Billerica, and letter to
the selectmen, ........ 133
Letter to the committee of correspondence of Boston and other towns, . 134
" 8 — Report of the committee on the state of the province relative to raising an
army, . ......... 135
Delegates to the provinces of Connecticut, Rhode Island, and Nevi?
Hampshire, ........ 13G
Committee to draught a letter to each of the above colonies, . . 136
Committee to see what number of men should be raised from the New En-
gland governments, ....... 13G
*'■ 10 — Letter to the colonies of Connecticut, Rhode Island, and New Hamp-
shire, .......... 13G
Additional delegates to the neighboring governments, . > . 137
" 11 — Instructions to the delegates appointed to repair to the neighboring col-
onies, ......... 138-
Committee to repair to Brunswick and other places, to prevent supplies
going from them to^ the enemy, ..... 139
Committee to- lake the particular state of the town of Boston, into consid-
eratioii, ........ ISS'
" 12 — Resolve for the appointment of county committees, to report a true state
of their towns , with respect to iheii having executed the measures of
the Continental and Provincial Congress, .... 139
Report of the committee relative to exercising the minute men in battal-
ions, and paying them for the time they spend in the service, re-
jecied, ......... 140-
Membejs of the county committees, ..... liO
" 13 — Resolve for raising six companies for the train of artillery, . . 141
Congress resumed the consideration of the report relative to the removal
of the inhabitants of Boston, and ordered it to be recommitted, . 142
" 14 — Resolve for the collection and payment of die tax assessed upon tlie
plantation of New Providence, ..... 142
Committee of donations of Boston recommended to afford assistance to
persons desirous of removing into the counlr}-, . . . 142:
Committee of safely directed to apply to a suitable number of persons to
be in readiness to enter the service of the colony, when an army shall
be raised, . . ...... 143,
Col, Thomas Gardner cliosen a member of the committee of safety', . 14rl
«' 15 — Report of committee and resolve recommaniling a day of fasting and
prayer, ........ 141.
Resolves for the i)ayment ol certain expenses incurred by Congress, . 145'
Members on their return to their respective towns, ordered to use their in-
fluence to procure the payment of the public taxes, and to promote
military discipline, ....... {.m
Resolves for the adjournment of Congress, and for calling logelher the
members in case of necessity, .^ • . . . 146
Vole of thanks to the president, ...... 146
Congress adjourns, to meet at Concord, on the 10th of May next,. . 147
" 17 — Circular from the committee appointed for the purpose of convening the
Provincial Congress, and sununoning the members lo repair immedi-
ately to Concord, ... .... 147;
150
CONTENTS. XVII
Armi. 22— Conjrrcss inccts at Concord, Ilicliard l)rvrn<! rlinscn cliainnan, and
John Murray clerk, . . ■ • • .117
Adjourns to Waiertown, . . • • • • .147
Coinmit'ce to notify'llie commiltcc of safely of llic limo and place of liic
adjournment of Congress, . . . • • .117
Conimiitce to lake depositions relative to the traiisaclions of ilie Hriiisli
troops in llieir march lo and from ('oncord, on ilie I'Jdi of A|)ril, . 148
" 23 — Resolves for immcdiatcl}- raising an army ol .30,000 men, . . 148
Committee of safety dirocied lo rcjjort a |)lnM for die establishment of the
army lo bp raised, ....... 148
Four members added lo the committee of safely, .... 148
Delegates lo New Hampshire, Conncclicut, and Rhode Island, appointed, 149
Letter from the cnmmillce of correspondence of Connecticul, . 149
Commiiiee lo diaught an answer lo the letter, .... 149
Doct. Joseph Warren chosen president, and. Col. Joseph Palmer secretary
pro tempore of Congress, ....•• 149
Committee to draw up a narrative of the massacre of April 19lb, . . 150
" 24 — Committees of safely and supplies empowered to impress horses and
teams, .......••
Commiitee lo recommend lo the committee of safety' persons most suita-
ble for officers in the army, ....•• 1^0
Letters from Hartford to ihe president of Congress, . . • 151
Committee to examine the records and report what parts of them should
be made public, ....... 1^^
" 25 — Statement of the treasurer respecting the condition of the treasury, . 151
Report of the commitiee appointed to examine the records of Cougness, . 151
Letter to the town clerk of Haverhill respecting the representation of ihat
town, . . . ■ .....
Order for the reduction of the companies lo fifly-nine men, and of the reg-
iments to ten companies, ....••
Memorials from Marblehead and other towns respecting the unprotected
state of the sea coast, ....••• 1^"
" 26 — Commitiee to draught a letter to our agent in Great Britain, • 153
William Rurbeck appointed an engineer of the forces now raising in the
colony, ......•-• 1^3
Letter to Benjamin Franklin, .....
Address lo the iiiliabilanis of Great Brilaia,
Resolution of the general assembly of Rhode Island, for raising an army
of observation, ...••••• 1^
Protest of the governor and deputy governor against the above resolution, 156
Resolve appointing Richard Gridley chief engineer of the colony forces, 157
Report of the commiitee appointed to consider tlic state of the eastern
parts of the province with respect to ammunition, . . • 157
Resolves for supplying certain towns wiih powder, . • - 16S
Committee to return the thanks of Congress to the ministers who have of-
fered to supply the army as chaplains, .... 158
Order to Richard Derby to proceed with dispatches to London, . . 159
Committee to consider the recommendation of the eomniillee of safely
with respect to armorers for the army, .... 159
<« 27 Resolve recommending to the commiitees of the sea-port towns in the
county of Essex, to use their endeavors to have the effects of the in-
habitants removed into the country, ..... 160
152
152
153
154
XVlll CONTENTS.
April 27 — Committee to confer with the officers of the army relative to the re-
duction of their pay, .....•• IGO
Committee to obtain an account of the number of men killed and wound-
ed on the 19th instant, ....... IGO
" 28 — Committee to confer with the deputies from New Hampshire, . . IGl
Mr. Samuel Freeman appointed secretary pro tempore, . . . 161
Letter to the convention of the colony of New Hampshire, . . 101
Committee to consider the expediency of establishing post riders between
the Rlassachusetls forces and the town of Worcester, . . 1G3
Committee to consider the propriety of recommending to the towns to
take no notice of Gen. Gage's precepts for calling a general assem-
bly, 1G3
Committee to prepare a commission for the officers of the army, . 163
Committee to draught rules for the observance of the members of Con-
gress, ......... 163
Committee to bring in a resolve empowering the committee of supplies to
procure supplies for the army, ..... 163
Committee to bring in a resolve for reducing the pay of the field officers
of the army, ........ 163
" 29 — The subject of the liberation of the inhabitants of Boston referred to the
committee of safety, ....... 16i
Day appointed for the meeting of the county committees, . . . 164
Rules and regulations to be observed by Congress, . . . 164
Monitors ordered to enforce their observance, .... 165
Resolve empowering the committee of supplies to procure provisions and
military stores for the army, ...... 165
Letters to the Hon. Stephen Hopkins, of Rhode Island, . . • 165
Order for sending British prisoners to Providence, to be used for the lib-
eration of Mr. John Brown, ...... 166
Resolve for reducing the pay of the field officers of the army, . . 167
Resolve for altering the time of the county committees' meetings, - 168
Committee to consider some method for supplying the treasury, . . 169
Letter from Stephen Hopkins of Rhode Island, respecting the capture
and detention of Mr. John Brown, ..... 169
Letter from James Angell, respecting supplies from Rhode Island, . 170
Letter from John Hancock to the committee of safety, giving information
of the arrival of intelligence from Europe, .... 170
" 30 Account of the cannon and ordnance stores of the province, . . 171
Officers to command the companies of artillery, .... 171
Order of Congress, and letter to the committee of safety, requesting their
immediate report respecting the liberation of the inhabitants of Bos-
Ion, 172
Committee to enquire into the conduct of the towns relative lo the prison-
ers ot war, ........ 172
Report of the committee of safety respecting the liberation of the inhab-
itants of Boston, ....... 172
Committee to consider uhal steps are necessary' for assisting the poor of
Boston lo move into the country, ..... 173
I^AY 1 — Extracts from the pajiers of Coiigi ess ordered lo be published, . . 173
Commissions lor the officers of the army to be signed by the president of
Congress, ........ 174
Letter Ironi 31ajor llawley respecting the bearer of despatches lo Gene-
ral Gage, ........ 174
CONTKNTS. "^'"^
Mav 1-Mr. Gcrry .lircclcd to bring in a resolve Branli..^' leave lo il.e members to
pass the guards of tlie colony army, . •■ ■ •
Form of a commission for the olliccrs of ihe colony army,
Form of a pass for the members of Congress reported by Mr. Gerry, and
accepted, • • • " ' '
Report of the committee to consider measures for assisting the noor ot
Boston to move out of said town,
Apportionment of the poor inhabitants of Boston among the towns of the
171
171
175
17iJ
17G
173
province, • • • ■ "
Committee of supplies ordered to furnish provisions to ceitam persons
who had sustained losses fr..m the British troops at Lexmgton,
Committee to consider what should be done with respect to furnishing the ^^^
army with necessaries, 178
2— Col Joseph Warren chosen president of Congress,
Committee to consider the propriety of taking measures to secure the
records of the counties exposed to danger, . • • •
Committee lo draught a letter to the delegates from Congress to Connec-
ticut, . • ■ , ij- f
Committee to draw up the form of an oath for the oOicers and soldiers of
the army, ■ • ■ • ' - i ■ i
Letter to the delegates of Congress in Connecticut respectmg the arrival
of gentlemen from that colony with a commission to treat with Gen-
eral Gage, ••••■■
Letter from Gov. Trumbull of Connecticut to General Gage,
Reply of General Gage, . • • • • " '
Committee to take into consideration a letter from Dartmouth respecting
sending vessels to sea, . • ■ ■ ' ■ n
Committee to bring in a resolve for granting liberty to persons m Boston
to send into the country for their effects, . • • ■
Committee lo forward an express to the Continental Congress with copies
of papers transmitted to Great Britain, • • • '
Resolve granting license to persons in Boston to send into ihe country for
ihelr effects, . • • ' /• i ' a
Committee to consider what shall be done for the liberation of the Amer-
ican prisoners taken on the IDih of April, . • • •
3— Rev Doct. Cooper requested to officiate as chaplain, • ' ... '
Resolve for supplying Col. Benedict Arnold with money and warlike
CommuTee to overlook the commissions of the committees of safety and
supplies, and see what additional powers they should have, . ■
Resolves authorizing the receiver general to borrow money, and prescrib-
in"- the form of the security to be given lo the lender,
Resolv'e for exempting the horses and carriages of members of Congress
from being impressed, .
The receiver general directed lo issue no notes for a less sum than four
pounds, lawful money, .
The committee appointed to consider the subject of advance pay lo the
soldiers, reported. The report was recommitted, .
Committee to procure a copperplate for printing the colony notes, and lo
countersign them, .••■•■■
Letter to the Continental Congress, • ■ • • "
179
179
179
179
180
181
183
183
183
181
l&t
ISl
185
18.5
185
186
186
187
187
187
XX
CONTENTS.
May 3 — Rev. Mr. Gordon requested to officiate as chaplain,
Keport of llic committee appointed to consider measures for lil>eraling
the prisoners taken by General Gage's troops on the 19ih of April, .
" 4 — Report of the committee appointed to take into consideration the advance
pay to the soldiers, .......
Committee to bring in a resolve for reconsidering a former resolve, and
recommending to the towns and districts not to obey the precepts of
General Gage for calling a general assembly.
Committee to eocaniine the towns' and districts' stocks of powder.
Committee to hold a conference with the delegates from Connecticut to
General Gage, .......
Report -of the committee appointed to inquire into the conduct of the
towns towards the prisoners of war, ....
Report of the committee appointed to confer with the Connecticut dele
gates, ........
Committee to prepare a letter to the assembly of Connecticut,
•■' 5 — Committee to bring in a resolve relative to an obstruction to the removal
of the inhabitants of Boston, .....
Report of the committee respecting General Gage's writs for calling a
general assembly, ......
Committee to bring in a resolve for the choice of delegates to a new Pro
viscial Congress, ......
Letter to the governor and company of the colony of Connecticut,
Report of the committee, and letter to General Ward relative to an ob
struction to the lemoval of the inhabitants of Boston,
Resolve for the election of delegates to a new Provincial Congress,
Letter from Gov. Trumbull of Connecticut,
Resolve for supplying the assembly of Connecticut with the rules and reg-
ulations of the army, ......
<' 6 — Committee of supplies empowered to procure powder in any of the colo
nies, ... .....
Committee to bring in a resolve for the appointment of two muster mas
ters, ........
Committee to take into consideration the letter from the speaker of Con
necticut, ... ....
Form of a pass through the guards of the army for members of Congress,
Col. Dwighl ordered to proceed to Hartford, with letters and depositions
for the general assembly of Connecticut,
Committee to take into consideration the subject of aji equal representa
tion of the colon}', ......
Committee to consider the form of an establishment for the train,
Resolve empowering the comniilice of suj)plies to import military stores.
Two muster masttrs appointed, and report of the committee respecting
their appolntuient, .......
Committee to enquire what number of province arms are in the province,
and what number ol' fire-arms have been procured by the committee
of supplies, .......
Establishmeiit for the companies of the train,
'< 7 — Committee of supplies directed to procure such a number of fire-arms as
they may think necessary, .....
Resolve for suptplying the to wo of Harpswell with powder.
189
189
189
CONTENTS. XXI
Mav 8 — romniiliec to Iraiiscrihc llic iinrraiivc oC tlie proceedings of ihe kin<j's
troops, on the lltlli ult. ...... 201
Committee to jircparo an answer to a letter (torn the selectmen of the
lown of Ilopkiuton, .....•• 201
Form of an oalli for the officers and solilicrs of the Massachusetts ar;ny, 201
Committee to draw up a resolve for disarming sucli persons as will not
give an assurance of their good intentions to the country, . . 202
The muster masters empowered to adininisier the oath to liie officers and
soldiers of the army, ..... . . 202
Letter to the selectmen of IIo])lvinlon, respecting liie removal of disalfect-
ed inhabitants, ....... 202
Committee to examine surgeons for the army, .... 203
Letter from the committee of correspondence of Portsniouih, . . 203
Answer of Congress to the same, ...... 201
Committees to collect the province arms in the counties of Hampshire
and Berkshire, ....... 204
Report of the committee ap|)ointed to bring in a resolve recommending
the disarming certain |>ersons in the colony, .... 205
Committee to bring in a resolve, recommending to the inhabitants to save
their straw, ........ 206
Committee to confer with the committee of safely with respect to settling
the appointment of field officers, and to enquire into the state of the
army, ......... 206
Letter to General Ward respecting certain outrages upon private prop-
erty, ......... 206
" 9 — The receiver general directed to give public notice of the resolve of Con-
gress for borrowing money, ...... 207
Resolve for furni',liing supi)lies to the soldiers, .... 207
Committee to prepare an application to General Gage respecting his
treatment of the inhabitants of Boston, .... 208
Col. Asa Whitcomb chosen a muster master in place of Col. John Whit-
comb who declined the trust, ....... 203
Committee to consider the expediency of establishing post offices and
riders in the colony, ....... 208
Report of a committee appointed to consider a false account of the late
excursion of the king's troops to Concord, .... 209
Resolve for furnisiiing the soldiers who are destitute, with arms and
equipments, ........ 209
" 10 — General officers directed to call in all the soldiers who are enlisted in the
army, ......... 210
Committee Id take into consideration the j)roceedings of the town of Bris-
tol, . . . . . . . . .211
Resolve recommending to the inhabitants of the colony to save their
straw, . . .211
Committee to transcribe the depositions taken, relative to the proceedings
of the king's troops on the 19th ult., ..... 211
Resolve for the security of the county records, ... . . 211
Report of the committee on the establibhment of post offices made, and
recommitted, ........ 212
Committee to consider the propriety of establishing a regiment of the
train of artillery. ....... 212
XXll
CONTENTS.
May 10— Commiltcc to consider a resolve of the committee of safely relative to
establisiiing a court of enquiry, ..... 212
Committee to inquire into the complaint made by the selectmen of Wor-
cester against individuals of that town, .... 212
Remonstrance to General Gage against the treatnicnt of the inhabitants
of Boston, ........ 212
Resolve for the establishment of a regiment of artillery, . . . 213
Petition from Timothy Langdon respecting the imprisonment of Edward
Parry, 214.
Report of the committee upon the complaint from the selectmen of Wor-
cester, ......... 214.
Committee to consider applications from the eastern parts of the province
for arms and ammunition, ....•• 215
"11 — Report of the committee on said applications, .... 215
Committee to prepare a letter to the committee of correspondence of New
York, relative to the sailing of men of war from Boston to New York, 216
Letter of the committee, ....... 216
" 12 — Letter from Hon. Enoch Freeman respecting the Penobscot Indians, and
an agent to Quebec, ....... 217
Letter from General Jedediah Preble, respecting an attack upon a king's
ship in Falmouth harbor, ...... 217
Committee to take into consideration the expediency of raising a compa-
ny of Indians, ......•• 218
Resolve for aiding the Rev. BIr. Gordon in examining and taking deposi-
tions cf the British prisoners, ...... 218
Committee appointed to consider measures for establisiiing post offices
and riders, reported. The subject postponetl, . . . 219
A committee raised to make application to the Continental Congress, for
obtaining Iheir recommendation for this colony to take up and exer-
cise the powers of civil government, ..... 219
Committee appointed to estimate the damages done to private property
by the king's troops at Concord, ..... 220
Resolve for an establisnment for a train of artillery, . . . 220
" 13 — Petition from the town of Topshain for a supply of powder, committed, . 220
Rev. Doct. Langdon chosen to preach the election sermon, . . 221
Resolve for taking a third set of depositions relative to the battle of Lex-
ington, ....... . . 221
Report of the committee appointed to consider llie petition of the select-
men of Topsham, ....... 222
Resolves for the establishment of post offices and post riders, . . 222
" 15 — Ordered that a committee be directed to desire the Continental Congress
to take measures lor directing and regulating the American forces, . 224
The committee appointed to prepare an introduction to the depositions
relating to the affairs of Lexington, reported. The report was re-
committed, ........ 224
Account of the discovery of Gov. Hutchinson's letters, . . . 224
Committee to examine them, . . . . . . 224
Letter to the Penobscot Indians, ...... 225
Resolve for preventing persons inimical to the colony from removing with
their effects out of the colony without permission of the committee of
the town to which they belong, ..... 226
Resolve respecting an embassy to Canada, .... 227
CONTENTS. XXIU
HI AT I J — Report of the rommiitcc appointed to brinj,' in a resolve forcstaUlisliinpa
court of in(|iiiry, made and rejected, ..... 221]
Delegates to repair to llie CoMgres> of New Hampshire, . 228
Committee to bring in a resolve for supplying one montli's advance pay
to the soldiers, ....••■• 228
Mr. John Fills chosen on the commillce of supplies in place of Col. I..ee, 228
Coinmillee lo draw up instructions to the delegates to the Congress of
New Hampshire, ....... 228
" IG — Commillce to apply lo ilie commiitcc of safely for a list of persons who
have received enlisting orders, and the number of men each ofiker
has enlisted, ,..•■.■• 2^,9
Application to the Continental Congress respecting the exercise of civil
government by ilie Massachusetts Bay, .... 22'J
Instructions to the delegates to the New Hampshire Congress, . . 231
Doct. Benjamin Church chosen to go to riiiiadelphia with the application
to the Continental Congress, ...... 232
Resolve respecting ihe organization of the train of artillery in the pro-
vincial army, ...-.••• 232
Committee to consider what measures should I)e taken relative to the
prisoners in Boston and the inhabitants there kept in duress, . 232
Report of the committee appointed to apply for a list of officers, . 232
" 17 — Committee to take into consideration certain letters giving an account of
the taking of the fortress at Ticonderoga, .... 233
Monitors appointed, .....-■ -33
Form of an oath to be taken by the general officers, . . • 233
Jonas Dix appointed to lake depositions relative to the destruction of
private property by the king's troops at Concord, . . ■ 23t
Committee lo consider what steps are necessary for the relief of certain
inhabitants of Boston, ....... 234
Letter to the assembly of Connecticut, and resolve relative to the capture
of the fortress at Ticonderoga, ..... 234
Committee lo prepare a commission for General Ward, . . . 235
Report of the committee relative to the prisoners at Dartmouth, . . 233
Committee appointed to revise the commission of the connniUee of safe-
ty directed to sit foilliwiih, ..•••• 235
Committee directed to bring in resolve for taking bonds of ihe postmas-
ters, and appointing oaths for the postmasters and riders, . 236
" 18 — Committee lo consider the practicability of employing surgeons to the
army out of the clergy of the colony, ..... 236
Comniiitce to bring in a resolve recommending to the inhabitants of the
colony not to clioose any person to represent tiiem who has a com-
mission in the army, .... ... 236
Committee to inquire if Hon. James Russell, impost master, has any pub-
lic moneys in his hands, ...... 236
Committee to bring in a resolve recommending lo the inhabitants to have
no dealings with the mandamus counsellors, or oihcr enemies of the
colony, . . . ' . . ■ • • ""^
Commillce lo inquire into the subject of a resolve of the committee of
salrly respeciiiig Lady Fraiikland, ..... 236
Letter from the cominiiiee ol correspondence of Falmoulh relative to ihe
siiuaiiou of that town, ....... 237
XXIV
CONTENTS.
May 18 — Report of the committee rplalivp to the attark upon the king's ships in
the harbor of Falmouth by Col. 'J'hompson, .... 237
Memhcrs of the committee of safety, . . . ■ . 238
Committee to inquire where the treasurer may procure money for advance
pay to the soldiers, ....... 233
Report of the committee upon the resolve of the committee of safety re-
specting Lady Fiankland, ...... 238
" 19 — Col. Warren directed to procure a list of the officers who are prepared
to receive their commissions, ...... 239
Letter of the committee of corresjjondence of Cnimecticut respecting the
taking of Ticondcroga, ...... 239
Resolve permitting Ladj- Frankland to remove or otherwise dispose of
her goods, ........ 240
Mr. Gerry reported an answer to a letter from the committee of corres-
pondence of Connecticut, ...... 240
Commission of the committee of safely, ..... 240
Resolve appointing Mr. John I'igeon a commissary for the army, . 242
Commission for General Aitemas Ward, ..... 243
Committee to get the depositions and narrative of the excursion of the
king's troops to Concord, printed, ..... 243
Resolves relative to the commissions of the officers, and the rank and
number of the regiments in the colony army, . . . 243
Resolves pas^sed for granting commissions to Samuel Gerrish and other
officers, ........ 244
" 20 Committee to confer with Mr. Revere respecting an alteration in the val-
ue of noies to be emitted, ...... 244
Petition from the inhabitants of Deer Island, .... 244
Report of the committee appointed to consider the situation of the pris-
oners in Boston, and the inhabitants there kept in duress, . . 244
Resolve for the payment of advance pay to the soldiers in the provincial
army, ......... 245
Committee to consider what measures are necessary for the organization
of the provincial army, ...... 246
Resolve for the issue of paper money by the receiver general, and form
of the notes, ........ 246
Report of the committee appointed to consider the practicability of pro-
viding chaplains (or the arm}', ...... 247
Commissions delivered to certain officers of the army, and resolves rela-
tive thereto, ........ 248
Loss of the record of the Second Provincial Congress during the last
eight days of its existence, . . . . . 2t8
" 22 Report of ihe committee on the petition from the inhabitants of Deer
],land, 219
Report of committee, and resolve relative to business transactions with
the mandamus counsellors and other |)ersons unfiiendly to the coun-
try, 249
Letter from General Ward recommending that certain oidnance. arms,
and ammunition be procuied, ...... 249
Resolve inviting the clergy to hold a conveiUion during the next session
of the Provincial Congress, agieeably to their ancient custom, . 250
Letter lo Col. Benedict Arnold. ...... 250
Letter from Hon. .Tames Russell, commissioner of imposts, respecting
public moneys in his hands, ... ... 251
CONTENTS. XXV
May 22 — Committee to take the al)ove loiter into coiisidcration, . . . 231
" 23 — Letter froin IJrowiilicItl askiiip^ for arms, powder, ifcc, . . . 251
Report of a coinmitlcc respectinjj llie depredations of the British troops
on the islands and sea coasts, ..... 252
Resolves respecting the tiial of certain persons charijed with crimes com-
mitted in the camp, ... .... 252
Report of the commiltec upon the orfjanization of the army, . . 253
" 21 — Resolve respecting- Ebenezcr Culler of Nortliborough, . . . 253
Rejiorl of 3Ir. Gerry respecting the appointment of additional armorers, 253
Committee to efluct the removal of the poor of the town of Boston, and
resolve respecting their powers, ..... 254
Committee to deliver out the commissions of the officers and to adminis-
ter the oaih to them, ....... 255
Address to the inhabitants of the Massachusetts Bay relative to an issue
of notes by said colony, ...... 255
" 25 — Report of the committee appointed to inspect the towns' stocks of pow-
der, and consider what proportion could be spared, . . . 256
Resolve for draftijig from the towns a quantity of powder, in conformity
to said report, ........ 257
Resolve respecting a dispute between Cols. Hcnshaw and Jonathan Ward
of Gen. Ward's regiment, as to the post of lieutenant colonel, . 257
Letter from Mr. Dexter, ....... 257
Letter from Gen. Thomas accepting the office of lieutenant general of the
provincial army, ....... 258
Resolve respecting absconding soldiers, ..... 258
" 26 — Letter to the I'rovincial Congress of New York, .... 258
Resolve directing the Hon. James Russell to pay all public mone^'S to
Henry Gardner, Esq. ....... 260
Resolve far a post rider from Cambridge to Exeter, N. H. . . 260
Resolve authorizing the muster masters to accept all able bodied men,
notwithstanding they are not furnished with arms and accoutrements, 260
Charges against Mr. Jonathan Brewer of Waltham, and report of the
committee relative thereto, ...... 261
" 27 — Committee of safety directed to write to Col. Arnold, . . . 261
Report of a committee relative to certain charges against Lieutenant Col.
Brown, 261
Report of the commillee relative to the establishment of a court of in-
quiry, ......... 262
Letter to the governor and company of the colony of Connecticut respect-
ing the fortress at Ticonderoga, . . • . . 263
Letter to Col. Benedict Arnold relative thereto, .... 263
Col. Joseph Henshaw appointed to repair to Hartford, to confer with the
assembly of Connecticut respecting the fortress at Ticonderoga, and
afterwards to proceed to Ticonderoga, .... 264
<' 29 — Letter to the Continental Congress upon the necessity of maintaining
that fortress, ........ 265
Letter to the governor of the colony of Connecticut relative to the for-
tresses at Ticonderoga and Crown Point, .... 266
Papers relating to Jonathan Brewer referred to the committee of safety, 270
Letter to the Provincial Congress of New Hampshire, . . . 270
Otficers commissioned by Congress, ..... 270
XXVI
CONTENTS.
THIRD PROVINCIAL CONGRESS OF MASSACHUSETTS.
1775.
May 31 — Convened in Waterlown. Samuel Freeman chosen secretary, and Jo
seph Warren, president, .....
List of delegates, .......
Committee to return thanks to the Rev. Doct. Laiigdon for his election
sermon, .......
Committee to consider the returns of members from Eastham,
Convention of clergymen, ......
Committee to take into consideration the papers relating to the fortress at
Ticonderoga, .......
Letter from the committee of correspondence of New Hampshire to the
committee of Newburyport, . . , . •
June 1 — Report of the committee appointed to consider Gen. Thomas' letter rel
ative to advance pay to the soldiers, ....
Monitors appointed, ......
Report of the committee, and resolve, relative to sending the poor of Bos
ton to certain tovkfns in the country, ....
Proposal of the clergy for furnishing the army with chaplains,
Committee to make inquiries concerning the armorers.
Letter from the selectmen of Hopkinion, ....
Report of the committee appointed to consider the letter from New
Hampshire, .......
Letter from the committee of safety of Salem, respecting Mr. Stephen
Higginson, .......
Report of the committee relative to the return of members from East
ham, ........
Report of the committee respecting Mr. Higginson,
Order for printing three hundred passes for members of Congress,
Hon. Mr. Dexter directed to inquire respecting the public moneys in the
hands of Mr. Russell. His report, ....
Report of the committee relative to the use of a horse taken from the reg
ulars by Mr. Emerson, ......
Letter to Col. Benedict Arnold relative to his conquests at Ticonderoga,
Letter to the Hon. William Williams, speaker of the liouse of assembly
of Connecticut, upon the same subject, , . . .
Letter, concerning same, to the Provincial Congress of New Hampshire,
" 2 Resolve recommending to the town of Eastham to choose a delegate to
this Congress, ........
Committee to report a resolve making further provision for distributing
the poor of Boston, .......
Committee to consider a memorial from the county of Worcester, 290,
Report and resolve respecting the appointment of chaplains for the army,
Committee to consider the situation of the seaport towns and islands,
Rev. Mr. Gordon chosen chaplain to the Congress,
Report of the committee respecting armorers, . . . .
Committee to consider the j)etition of Capt. Jacob Gerrish and seven oth-
er captains of the army, ......
Col. Richmond appointed to countersign the colony notes,
273
273
280
2S0
281
281
281
2S2
cyoc)
283
283
284.
284
284
285
285
285
28G
286
286
287
288
288
289
290
305, 313
290
290
291
291
291,292
291
CONTENTS.
XXVII
Ji-XK 2 — Committee to consitlcr what is hest to be done with llic liorscs taken from
Noddle's island, and report lelaiive ihcn-to, . ' .
" 3 — Commitloc to consider a resolve of die conimillcc of safety respecting a
person allected with the small pox, ....
Report of the committee appointed to consider llie situation of llic sea
port towns, .....••
Resolve respecting a person at Hrookline broke out with the small pox
Committee to consider the subject of a reenforccment of llic army for the
protection of tiic sea coasts, .....
Petition from tiic town of Dartmouth and resolve thereon,
Report of the committee on the petition of Jacob Gerrish,
Committee to consider a letter from Col. James Easton, .
Resolve assigning' a time for hearing Col. Jonathan Brewer,
Letter to the receiver general respecting the signing of the colony notes
Order relative to stamping and countersigning them,
" 4 — Resolves for the payment of troops from Berkshire,
Committee to make inquiries respecting the colony notes, and orders re
specting said notp.s, ......
" 5 — Orders respecting countersigning and numbering the notes,
Resolve appointing a committee to examine some mineral earth brought
from Brookfield, and the report thereon,
Committee to confer with the general officers respecting the health of the
army, ........
Committee to consider what should be done respecting intercepted letters
and their report relative thereto, . . . •
Committee to consider a proposal relative to the removal of the poor of
Boston, .......
Resolves for obtaining information of the committee of supplies respect
ing military stores and powder, ....
Order relative to an examination of the mineral earth at Brookfield,
Committee to bring in a resolve for giving currency to the bills of credi
of the other colonies, . .....
Resolve for loaning a horse to the Rev. Mr. Emerson,
Committee to confer with the committee of safety on the state of the ar
tillcry, ........
Resolve for the custody of certain prisoners,
Committee to make an establishment for an allowance of provisions to
the soldiers, .......
" G — Committee to devise means for supplying the army with necessaries,
Order relating to the prisoners, .....
Proceedings of Congress rnlating to the case of Col. Jonathan Brewer,
Older upon the petition of Loarami Baldwin for a loan of mathematical
instruments, .......
Report of the committee relative to making provision for the poor of Bos
ton, ........
" 7 — Committee to wait on Gen. Ward for a return of the number of men ii
the Massachusetts army, .....
Petition from the inhabitants of Machias, and committee to report there
on. Their report, ......
The committee to consider the state of the artillery report, and ask leav(
to sit again, .......
Committee to consider the letters from the Stockbridge Indians, .
292
293
293
294.
294
295
295
295
295
29G
29G
296
297
297
298,299
298
299
299
299
299,300
299
300, 315
300
300
300
301
301
302
302
303, 305
303, 30G
30t
30t
XXVlll CONTENTS.
June 7 — Committee to prepare a resolve for printing- two resolves of the Continen-
tal Congress 305
Mr. Benjamin Edwards admonislied for disrespectful language respect-
ing the committee of safely, . . ... 301,305
Order for commissions to be delivered to the officers in Col. Fellows' reg-
iment, ......... 305
A petition from the selectmen of Salem committed, . . . 305
Committee to confer with the delegates from New Hampbhirc, . . 305
Representation from the town of Lunenburg respecting their supply of
j)owder, ........ 306
Report of the committee appointed to inquire into the circumstances of
prisoners from Dartmouth, ...... 303, 306
Report of a committee to confer with the delegates from New Hampshire, 307
Letter from the Provincial Congress of New Hampshire, . . . 307
Committee to prepare letters to the Continental Congress and each of the
New England colonies, ...... 308
Report of the committee appointed to consider the augmentation of the
army, ......... 308
Committee to consider the expediency of establishing a number of small
armed vessels for the protection of the sea coasts, . . . 308,317
Committee to consider some measure for commissioning the officers of the
army, ......... 309,315
" 8 — Account of the taking of a sloop with stores for tlie army at Boston, from
the selectmen of Arundel, ...... 309
Report of the committee to consider some measures for commissioning
the officers of the army, ...... 310
Committee to consider a petition from the county of Cumberland, • 310
Committee to consider the account for transporting stores to Ticonde-
roga, ......... 310
Letter from the Stockbridge Indians, . . . . .311
Reply of Congress, . . . . . . .311
Resolve for sending messengers and belts to said Indians, • . 312
" 9'^Petition from the selectmen of Manchester, .... 313
Committee to consider what shall be done with some prisoners brought
from Arundel, ........ 313
Report of the committee appointed to bring in a resolve for enforcing
two resolves of the Continental Congress relative to exportations lo
the British provinces, ....... 313
Report of the committee on the petition from the county of Worcester, . 314
Leave of absence granted to two members, .... 315
Committee of safety required to ceilify the names of the candidates for
the command of regiments, ...... 315
" 10 — Report of the committee and resolves respecting Josiah Jones and Jona-
than Hicks, two prisoners brought from Arundel, . . . 315
Committee to consider how many artificers may be necessary for the
army, ......... 317,333
Committee to bring in a resolve for the appointment of armorers, . 317
Allowance of provisions to the soldiers of the Massachusetts army, . 317
Report of the committee to imjuire into the stale of the army, . . 318
Committee to consider the subject of furloughs to the soldiers, . . 318
Petition from the freeholders of Williamsburg, .... 318
CONTENTS.
XXIX
Ji'NK 10 — Comiiiillec to consider the expediency of cslablisl)ing a number of armed
vessels, .......
Address to the Continental Congress, ....
" 12 — Committee to consider measures for prcventiiijc a viohilioii of tlic S;il)
bath, ........
Comniillec to consider a petition from the committee of Charlestown,
Resolve for the appointment of persons to repair to the fortress of 'I'icon
deroga, ........
Committee to consiiler sonic method for supplying the surgeons with med
icines, . .......
Letter to the Contincnlal Congress respecting Canada and the Indians,
Committee and resolve resjiecting grass growing on the estates of the ref-
Resolve for preventing the exportation offish and other provisions,
Report of the committee appointed to consider some method of supply
ing the surgeons with medicines, ....
Ordered to examine the medical stores, ....
Report of a committee respecting a vessel going from Salem for provis
ions for the army in Boston, .....
Committee to meet committees from the other New England governments
at Worcester, . . .....
Committee to repair to Ticonderoga, ....
Petition from the county of Cumberland committed,
Report of the committee relative to the candidates for commissions in the
army, read and recommitted, .....
Report on the petition of Davis and Covcrly respecting their goods in
Boston, .......
Committee respecting the number of armorers, report,
" 13 — Letter from Governor 'I'rumbull read and committed, . .
Resolve for commissioning twenty-three regiments,
Committee to consider a petition of Abner Graves and others respecting
military rank, .......
Resolve reconsidering the resolve for the appointment of a convention o
committees of the New England colonies,
Col. John Whitcomb chosen a major general.
Several private accounts read and committed, and reports thereon, 32G
Committee to consider the expediency of appointing an additional ar
morer, ........
Resolve respecting returns from gentlemen claiming to be commissioned
as colonels, .......
Instructions to the gentlemen chosen to repair to Ticonderoga, .
Report of the committee on the expediency of appointing Ensign Foley
an additional armorer, ......
Proclamation of General Gage, promising pardon to all persons who
shall lay down their arms, excepting Samuel Adams and John Han
cock, and committee thereon, .....
" 14 — Resolves for the payment of advance pay to the soldiers under Col. Ar
nold, and for the expenses of the committee appointed to repair to
Ticonderoga, .......
Report on the petition of Abner Graves, ....
Committee on the petition of Mr. Parry, ....
Committee to bring in a resolve for appointing a day of fasting, .
31 'J
330
320
324,
321 322
321
321
322
322
323
323
324
325
324
324
325
325
325
32.5
325
325
326
326
338
326
327
327
330
327,
330
332,
332
332
375
332
XXX CONTENTS.
June 14 — Committee to consider some way of supplying arms to the soldiers who
are destitute of them, ------- 332
Committee to devise means for securing the librar_v of Harvard College, 332
Committee to consider a request of IMr. Palmer for providing tents and
barracks for the army, ....-- 332
Committee to consider the propriety' of supplying the generals of the ar-
my with household furniture, ------ 333
Col. Foster ordered to countersign the notes, - . - - 333
Doct. Joseph Warren chosen a major general, - - - 333
Committee to inform Generals Whitcomb and Warren of their appoint-
ment, .-------- 333
Report of the committee to bring in a resolve for a day of fasting and
prayer, read and recommitted, . - - . - 333
Resolves for commissioning officers for the train of artillery, - - 333
Mr. Samuel Thatcher appointed to number the notes, - - - 334
" 15 — Col. Gridley's letter respecting artificers committed, . - - 334,
Committee to consider measures for supplying the army with good pro-
visions, .-...--- 334
Resolve relative to securing the library and apparatus of Harvard Col-
lege, --..----- 334
Letter to the Continental Congress and the several governments of New
England, respecting danger from Canada and the Indians, - - 335
Report of the committee to consider means for providing barracks for
the soldiers, -------- 335
Report of the committee and resolve for procuring fire-arms from the sev-
eral towns for supplying the army, - ... - 336
Report for providing a magazine of fire-arms, - - . . 337
Committee to ascertain whether the army is supplied with ammunition, - 337
Committee to consider the application of Doct, Langdon, - - 338
Report of the committee to consider the claims and pretensions of the
colonels of the armj-, ------ 333
" IG-^Resolve for supplj'ing the soldiers with rum, - - - - 340
Committee to consider a resolve for an increase of the army, a supply of
arms to the soldiers, &c. -.---. 310
Committee to draft a letter to Gen. Whitcomi), and report of the same, - 340
Commissions delivered to several officers of the army, - - - 341
Allowance to Col. Heushaw for the e.xpenses of his journey to Connecti-
cut, ---.-..-. 341
Commiltee to examine the surgeons, - . . - . 341
Col. Otis and Mr. Johnson added to the committee to consider the proc-
lamation of General Gage, ------ 341
Commiltee to consider what shall be done with vessels ready to sail with
fish on board. Report, -.-... 341,343
Report of the commiltee on the violation of the Sabbalh, - - 342
Commiltee to consider the returns of the companies in Col. Heath's and
Col. Robinson's regiments, ------ 312
Committee to consider the petition of James Kirkwood, - - 343, 374, 378
Proc]amation;of the Provincial Congress, offering pardon to all oflcnders
against the rights of the people, except Thomas Gage, Samuel Graves
the mandamus counsellors, and others, - . - . 344
Committee to fill commissions for the officers of artillery, - - 34-7
Col. Heath ordered to be commissioned. - - . - - 347
CONTENTS. XXXI
June IC — Deacon PIvni])loii nppoinlod lo counlorsii^nllio notes, . - - 517
Report of the coininillcc on tlic application of Doct. Lnngflon, president
of Harvard Colle-^c, ■'317
" 17 — Coniniitlee to consider the expediency of procurin;^ amis an<l aniniiinilion
from Piiiladelpliia. Report tiicreon, ----- 'MS
Report of the conuniltee rcs|)ectin<j the augmentation of the arm}-, nnd
supplying tlic soldiers with arms, - - - - - 318
Moses Gunn appointed to countersign the large notes, - - - 3W
Order for delivering commissions to certain oflicers, ... 311)
Committee to confer with the printers relative to their terms, - - 319
Re|)ort of the committee on the sea coasts relative to a petition from Eg-
amagon Reach for a sui)j)ly of provisions, ... - 319
Committee to consider the state and circumstances of the sea coasts, - 350
Report of committee and resolve, advised the towns to sell and deliver
their tire-arms to a committee of Congress for the use of the army,- 350
Letters from the president of the Continental^Congress relative to the form
of government, supplies, (fcc. - . . - . - 352,353
Committee to notify and call together the members of Congress in an ex-
traordinary emergency, -..--. 352
Committee to purchase fire-arms in the several counties, - - - 352
" 18 — Resolve for the security of the records and papers of Congress, - - 353
Petition from Waldoborough for powder, ----- 353
Committee to prepare a letter to the Continental Congress relative to the
battle of Bunker hill, and to lake into consideration the letter receiv-
ed from the president of the Continental Congress, - - - 353
Committee of supplies directed to write to Rhode Island and New Hamp-
shire, touching the article of powder, - - - . 354
Committee to consider petitions for supplies of provisions, - - 355
" 19 — Committee to see that the army at the entrenchments is well supplied
with provisions, ..--... 355
Letters from Gen. Ward relative to blankets and other articles lost in bat-
tle, and committee to consider thereon, .... 355
Committee to consider the expediency of establishing anoiher hospital for
the army, .-.--... 355
Letter from Hon. Enoch Freeman respecting Col. Phinney's regiment be-
ing commissioned for the defence of the sea coasts, and committee
relative thereto, .-.-... 355
Establishment for officers to take care of the ordnance stores, and for a
company of artificers, --.... 355
Report of the committee respecting the method of establishing civil gov-
ernment debated, and consideration thereof postponed, - - 357
Hon. James Warren chosen president of the Congress, ... 357
Report of a committee and resolve respecting blankets, - - . 357
Report of a committee for establishing another hospital for the army, - 357
Report of the committee relative to Gen. Ward's letter respecting spears
for the army, --.--.-. 357
" 20 — Committee to purchase spears for the army, - . . . 353
Resolve of the Continental Congress and letter of the Provincial Con-
gress to the towns, respecting a form of civil government for the col-
ony, ---.--... 359
Committee to consider letters from Penobscot, .... a^O
XXXll CONTENTS.
June 20 — Committee to report a resolve relative to the killed and wounded in the
late battle at Charlcstown, ...--- 3G0
Petition from Woolwich for powder, .... - 3G0
Committee to consider what method is proper to supply the hospitals with
surgeons, and to provide medicines, ----- 3G1
Report of the committee on the expediency of estal)lishing armed ves-
sels, 361
Report of the committee relative to a house of Doct. Spring for a hospi-
tal, 361
Committee on the petition of Mr. Pigeon, and report relative thereto, - 361
Report of a committee relative to a petition of Col. Patterson for a sup-
ply of blankets, .-..--. 361
Resolve for the appointment of deputy commissaries, - - - 362
Committee to confer with four Indians from Penobscot, - . . 362
Resolve authorizing the exportation of a quantity of old Jamaica fish, - 362,363
Report relative to the support of the poor of Charlestown, - - 362
Committee to inquire into the grounds of a report of treachery among the
officers of the army, ------- 363
Col. Heath chosen a major general, ----- 3G3
Mr. Beriah Norton declared not regularly- returned as a member of Con-
gress from Edgartown, ...... 363
Committee to make a commission for General Heath, ... 363
Committee to consider a recommendation of Mr. John Wiley as captain
of a company' of artillery, -..--. 364-, 373
Committee on a petition of Robert Haskell, .... 364, 368
Form of a return of the choice of representatives, - - - 364
Letter to the Continental Congress, relative to the battle of Bunker hill, 365
Letter to Gen. Ward relative to drawing off part of the forces at Roxbu-
ry to Cambridge, ------- 367
" 21 — Commission of William Heath as major general, - - - - 367
Committee to consider the expediency of calling Col. Glover's regiment
from Plymouth to Cambridge, - - - . . 368
Report relative to ordering the regiment from Rlarblehead to Cambridge, 368
Committee to consider a petition of Robert Twining, and report, - 368
Resolve relative to the estates of the refugees, - - . - 368
Committee to bring in a resolve for the purpose of calling a genera! as-
sembly, if the exigency should require, . - . . 369
Committee to inquire where materials for making paper can be found, - 369
Committee to take charge of the jilates for the colony notes, - - 369,375
Address from the chief of the Penobscot Indians, - - - 369
Order for delivering out several commissions, - - . - 370
Committee to inquire into the reason of the want of discipline in the
army, --------- 370
Joseph Fry, Esq. chosen a major general, . - - . 370
Report and rejsly to the address of the Penobscot Indians, - - 371
Letter from Gov. Trumbull enclosing a letter from the president of the
New York Congress lo Maj. Gen. Wooster, - - - . 372
Orders for commissions to officers of the train of artillcr}-, - - 373
Committee to consider the petition of Briant Morton, - . - 374
«' 22 — Committee to make a list of olficcrs of the army who have been commis-
sioned, -------- 374
Order for supplying the town of Towiiseiul with powiler. - - 374
CONTENTS. XXXlll
June 2^— Pctilion of f'ol. Paul Dudley Sorg-caiit, ..... 37t
Doct. Kraiiois Killied^^'o a|>|)()iiiU'(l a siir/^coii to the lios|>il;il, . 371
Tlie colonels of llic rcgiinciils ordered to rcconiinciid suitable persons for
surgeons, ....... .37}-, 377
Coinniiltec on tlic petition of George Vincent, relative to the exportation
of fish, and report of the committee, .... .375,377
Committee to provide a liospital for the camp ai Ito.xhury, . . 375
Committee on Mr. Paul Revere's account, .... 375
Committee on the stale of Col. Phinney's regiment, and report thereof, . 375, 378
Order for commissioning certain officers in Col. Prescolt's regiment, . 375
Committee of safely directed to prepare lists of persons fit to be commis-
sioned in the several regiments, ..... 376
Resolve for supplying the town of Townsen'I with powder, . . 376
Report of committee, and letter to Gen. Ward, relalixc to ordering the
companies of Col. Thomas' and Col. Cotton's regiments al Plymouth
to Cambridge, ........ 376
Resolve for supplying the inhabitants of Belfast, and other towns on the
Penobscot river, with provisions, ..... 377
"23 — Committee to fill up commissions, .... . . 377
Order for commissioning the officers of Col. Glover's regiment, . . 377
Order respecting the pay and commissions of ensigns, . . . 377
Order respecting Bridget Phillips, wife of a British officer, . • 378, 387
Commission as chief engineer ordered to be given to Col. Gridley, . 378
Order for printing the hand bills for the observance of the Lord's day, . 378
Committee on the account of Mr. John Lane, .... 378
Report of the committee appointed to procure a hospital in Ro.vbury, . 378
Gen. Ward requested to nominate an adjutant general, . . . 379
Committee to draw up the form of a warrant for the staff officers, . 379
Report of the committee upon the stale of Col. Phinney's regiment, . 379
Report and resolve respecting the price of blankets, . . . 380
Letter from Stephen Hooper, relative to a donation to the poor of Bos-
ton, ......... 380
Daniel Noyes appointed postmaster of Ijiswich, .... 380
Committee to inquire into the state of the regiment moved from Marble-
head to Cambridge, ....... 380
Mr. Nye appointed lo number the notes, ..... 380
Committee upon the petition of the town of Maiden, . . . 381
Committee to consider the cii'cumstances of the Rev. Doct. Langdon, . 381
Committee to consider e.\pedients to augment the army, . . . 381
Mr. Holmes appointed in place of Mr. N3-e to number the notes, . 381
Report on the account of Capt. John Lane, .... 381
Report on the letter of Stephen Hooper of Newburyport, . . 381
Report on the petition of the town of Maiden, .... 382
Resolve for the pa^'ment of Capt. Lane's account, , . . 382
Resolve respecting the removal of tlie library and apparatus of Harvard
College, ........ 382
Resolve allowing the exportation of certain fish from Gloucester, . 382
Vote for paying £100 to the Rev. Doct. Langdon, . . , 383
Report of the committee on the petition of Robert Haskell, . . 383
•' 24 — Committee to consider some method for regulating trade with the In-
dians, ......... 383
XXXIV
CONTENTS.
June 24 — Committee to consider the expediency of stationing a part of Col. Pliin
ney's regiment in the counties of Cumberland and Lincoln, .
Committee respecting the bills of credit of the colony',
Establishment for surgeons of the army, ....
Resolve for appointing a day of fasting and prayer,
Report respecting the wages of Capt. John Lane,
Committee on the petition of Edward Parry,
Resolve for the payment of £100 to Doct. Langdon,
Committee to consider the surplus bills, ....
Report of the committee on the petition of James Kirkwood,
Resolve respecting Bridget Phillips, ....
Report relative to a building for a hospital,
Letter to the governor of Connecticut, respecting an augmentation of the
army, ........
Committee to consider the desertion of Lieut. Cox,
Report of the committee relative to stationing Col. Phinney's regiment.
Report of the committee relative to the desertion of Lieut. Cox, .
Committee to consider measures for the reception of Gen. Washington,
Report upon the services and compensation of Capt. John Lane,
Committee to prepare a model for a spear.
Resolve for the pa^'ment of Andrew Oilman,
Blacksmiths to work on the Sabbath in finishing the spears.
Resolve for furnishing supplies to the Penobscot Indians, .
Committee to consider the subject of stationing a company at Nashaun
Island, ........
Proclamation of the Continental Congress for a fast,
Rev. Mr. Gordon chosen to preach the election sermon, .
" 25— Committee to procure spades and shovels for the army, .
Commission of lieutenant for Mr. Andrew Gilman,
Resolves respecting Capt. John Lane, ....
Resolve respecting Lieut. Andrew Gilman,
Resolve for the protection of the Elizabeth Islands,
Order for delivering out certain commissions,
Letter from the committee of Machias, respecting the capture of a king';
cutter, ........
Mr. Holmes appointed of the committee for making the notes of the col
ony a currenc}-, ......
" 26 — Order for an inquiry into the conduct of Capt. Thompson, at Falmouth,
Committee to make a list of the officers who have been commissioned.
Committee to inquire into the state of the towns' stock of ammunition.
Order relative to conmiissions for officers of the train.
Order respecting the handles to the spears.
Committee to consider how the arms shall be distributed, .
Report of the committee on the recejition of Gen. Washington, .
Committee to prejiare letters to the New England colonies for a reenforce
ment of men, not to prepare one for New Hampshire,
Committee to bring in a resolve relative to the examination of suspected
persons, .......
Report of the committee on the letter from Machias,
Order for delivering certain commissions, ....
Committee on a letter from Gen. Ward, ....
Committee to meet Generals Washington and Lee at Spring^field,
383, 386
383
384
384
385
386
336
386
386
387
387
CONTENTS. XXXV
June 26— fJencral Wliitcomit comiii'ssionpd as mnjor {^oncrnl, -KX)
I. filer from l*l\ iiuuilli, rcspei-liii:" ilic removal of ilic Iroops from that
lowii, niul cominillco llirrcon, ...... KX)
Orders for coiiiinissioniii^ odiccrs in Colonels Lilllc's, (jcirisli's ami I'res-
cotl's rei^imciils, ....... 401
Two companies to he joined lo ('ol. I'aiicrson's ro-jimenl, . . 400, 401
Ilcport and resolve rcspcctinj^ ilie dislrilxilion of ilie small arms, . . 402
Commiltce to consider the stale of the sea coasts, . . . 402
Report of the committee lo consider the conduct of Col. Thompson, at
Falmouth, ........ 402
" 27 — Letter from the commillee of Albany, and committee thereon, . . 403
Report of liie committee on Oen. Ward's letter read and recommitted, . 403
Committee relative to permitting provisions lo be carried to prisoners in
Boston, ........ 40^1
Mr. Biijelow a))pointed to inquire for blank commissions, . . . 404
Four members added to tlie committee of supplies, . . , 404
Col. William Ilensiiaw ciiosen adjutant "general, .... 404
Committee to pre()are a letter to the Continental Congress, and aJso to
Connecticut, for supplies of powder, ..... 401
Mr. Samuel Brewer appointed an adjutant general, . . . 40t
Mr. Ezekiel Clieever a()pointed store keeper of the ordnance, . . 405
Committee to examine Ensign Robert Campbell, a prisoner, . . 405
Committee lo prepare an address to the towns, respecting supplying the
army with powder, ....... 405
Mr. Edes ordered to print three hundred blank commissions, . . 405
Petition from Jonathan Hicks and Josiah Jones, prisoners in Concord, . 405
Letter respecting fitting out armed vessels, .... 405
Committee on the petition of several eastern towns for supplies of provis-
ions and ammunition, ....... 405
Committee to bring in a resolve that the pay of the officers and soldiers
shall commence at the time of their enlistment, . . . 406
Committee to report ou measures for preventing the spreading of the smaJl
pox, ......... 406
Resolve relative to the distribution of fire-arms, .... 406
Report of the committee to examine Ensign Robert Campbell, . . 407
Commillee to consider wiiat quantity of powder should be drawn from Ihe
several towns, ..... ... 407
Report of the committee relative to supplying the wounded persons in cap-
tivity in Boston, with provisions, ..... 408
" 28 — Resolve relative to the committee of supplies, .... 408
Letter to the committee of Albany, containing an account of the battle of
the 17th instant, ....... 408
Resolve for paying Messrs. Fish and Tobcy the expenses of bringing
Robert Campbell to Cambridge, ..... 410
Committee to inquire into the conduct of Francis 3Iore, . . . 403, 410
Committee to bring in a resolve for saving provisions in the army, . 410
Committee to consider a list of deputy commissaries, . . . 410
Petition from John Obrian, of Machias, ..... 411
Committee to proportion the pay of the officers lo that of the soldiers, . 411
Resolve to prevent the waste of provisions in the army, . . . 411
Committees lo station the troops in the counties of Essex and Yt.;k, . 411
Committee lo give out enlisting orders, ... . 411
XXXV 1
CONTENTS.
June 28 — RrsoIvg for defending- the towns on the sea coast, . . . 412
Committee on the petition of Robert Siiillabcr for leave to export fish, . 413
Committee to devise means for su])piyin^ the soldiers on the sea coast
with provisions, ....... 413
Committee to consider the petition of several officers relative to their
rank and the organization of the regiments, .... 414
Report of the committee relative to absconding soldiers, . . . 414
Committee to consider the best method for providing each soldier with a
coat, ......... 414
Form of warrant for the surgeons, ...... 415
Committee to bring in a resolve to prevent the unnecessary expenditure of
gfunpowder, ........ 415
Report on the petition of Mr. Obrian, ..... 415
Report of the committee relative to making the bills and notes of this and
the other colonies, a tender, ...... 415
Committee to bring in a resolve recommending toihe governor and com-
pany of the colony of Connecticut to permit provisions to be carried
from that colony to the inhal>itants of the eastern parts of this, . 416, 417
Resolve for forwarding a letter to the Continental Congress, . . 416
Committee to examine the conduct of the commissary general, . . 416
Resolve relative to the commencement of the pay of the officers and sol-
diers of the army, ....... 417
Committee to consider a proposal of Doct. Whiting relative to saltpetre, 417
•' 29— Committee on a petition of John Calef, ..... 417
Letter from the committee of Northfield, ..... 417
Report on the petitions of the eastern towns for provisions, . . 418
Committee to prepare an address to Generals Washington and Lee, on
their arrival, ........ 418
Report on the petition of several officers in the army relative to rank, . 418
Report of the committee on the subject of the manufacture of saltpetre, . 418
Report of the"committee on the subject of supplying the soldiers on the
sea coasts with provisions, ...... 418
Committee to see that the military stores are properly guarded, . . 419
Report on the petition of John Calef, ..... 419
Committee to consider in what manner enlisting orders and commissions
should be given to the officers of companies on the sea coasts, . 419
Resolves authorizing the person and goods of Ensign Campbell to be
searched, 419,420
Committee to consider a resolve of Congress relative to the purchase of
guns, ......... 419
Committee to examine certain letters brought from England, . . 420, 427
Address to the towns in the counties of Worcester and Hampshire, rela-
tive to supplying the army with powder, .... 420
Committee to procure powder from the above counties, . . . 421
Committee to inquire where safe and convenient stores may be had for
storing gunpowder, ....... 421
Committee on a petition of Mr. Ichabod Goodwin, . . . 421
Doct. William Whiting appointed to procure from New York directions
for making saltpetre, ....... 421
Resolve authorizing Robert Shillaber to export fish, . . . 421
Committee to prepare instructions to the committee appointed to procure
powder, ........ 422
CONTENTS.
XXXVIl
Jure 29 — Report on llic arrounl of Mr. Ichabod Goodwin,
•' 30— -Rciiorl rt'lalive to llio superiiumorary sin-els of rolon}' notes,
Leilcr from the commillce of safely of Forlsmoiiih,
Order for paying llie expenses of Docl. Wliiiiiig's mission to New York
Committee to consider a resolve of the committee of safety relative (o ar
tificers' accounts, ......
Resolve for procuring powder from the counties of Hampshire and Wor
ccstcr reconsidered and recommiiied, ....
Committee to bring in a resolve making provision for llie poor of Charles
town, ........
Committee to inquire iiilo the stale of llie light-houses.
Resolve relalive to a further emission of notes or bills of credit, .
Form of a warrant for surgeons of the hospital, .
Commissions ordered to be delivered to certain officers, .
Resolve for the payment of the expenses of persons appointed to pro
cure ix)\vder, .......
Form of commissions for ihe oflicers appointed for the defence of the sea
coast, ........
Form of beating orders for companies to defend the sea coasts, .
Form of enlistment for soldiers for the defence of the sea coasts, .
Resolve for publishing the foregoing blank form-s, .
Committee to consider how crimes by the officers and soldiers on the sea
coasts shall be punished, .....
Resolves relative to the dales of warrants and commissions,
Report of the committee for procuring stores for the gunpowder,
Report of the committee relalive to procuring powder from the towns in
the counties of WorcestPr and Hampshire,
Committee to examine the accounts of Major Barber,
Committee on a letter from the town of Biddeford,
July 1 — Resolves for removing certain poor of Charleslown to the towns in the
county of Worcester, ......
Committee on two letters from Rev. John Murray,
Committee on the account of Jabez Matthews,
Committee to consider a resolve of the committee of safety respecting
whale boats, .......
Committee respecting putting electrical points on the powder magazines
Committee on the petition of eighteen Stockbridge Indians,
Report relative to Thomas Neat, a prisoner,
Deputy commissaries in the Massachusetts army, .
Gen. Ward directed to order two companies to Plymouth,
Resolves f«r the punishment of criminals on the sea coasts,
Petiticm from James Fry, that his son may be appointed a deputy com
missary, .......
Committee on a petition of Josiah Stearns,
Committee on a petition from the town of Sandwich,
Committee to consider letters from London,
Resolve for reading the rules and regulations of the army at the head o
each corps, .......
Letter to the governor and company of Connecticut relative to supplying
the province of Maine with provisions.
Resolve for paying Jabez Matthews the expense of his embassy to Can
ada, ........
422
422
422
423
423
423
423
423
424
424
42 1, 425
425
425
426
426
427
427, 433
427
427
428
430
430
430
431
431
431
431
431
431
432
433
433
434
434
434
434
435
435
436
XXXVlll
CONTENTS.
July 1 — Committee to biing in a resolve for removing llie sick and wounded to the
hospital, .......
Gentlemen appointed to administer oaths to the soldiers, .
Resolve directing the receiver general to pay out the bills of credit of the
other colonies, .......
Report of the committee relative to the better accommodation of the
sick and wounded of the army, ....
Committee to draw up a resolve to be prefixed to the addresses to Gene
rals Washington and Lee, .....
Address to his excellency George Washington,
His reply, ........
Address to Major General Charles Lee, and his reply thereto.
Committee to devise means of supporting the poor of Boston and Charles
town to their places of destination, ....
Order for providing necessaries for Generals Washington and Lee,
Order and resolve relative to paying Mr. Paul Revere for printing the
colony notes, .......
Report of the committee relative to securing sundry whale boats,
" 2 Report of the committee relative to securing the lamps of the light
houses, ........
Committee to wiite to Mr. Russell respecting the money due fiom him to
the treasury, .......
Petition of Joseph Barrell relative to his loss by a fire in Boston,
Report of the committee for devising means for supporting the poor o:
Boston and Charlestown to their places of destination,
" 3— Resolve ordering the rules and regulations of the army to be read month
ly, reconsidered, .....
Resolve for paying Mr. Josiah Stevens for his services in bringing letters
from London, .......
Committee to confer with the gentlemen from New Hampshire, .
Committee on the petition of Thomas Morion for leave to export fish. RC'
port thereon, .......
Committee on the petition of the selectmen of Abington, .
Resolve for furnishing the non-commissioned officers with clothing and
blankets, who lost theirs on the 17ih of June, .
" 4 — Committee to prepare a letter to Gov. Trumbull, .
Committee to inform Gen. Washington of the provision for the sick and
wounded of the army, .....
Committee on the account of Ephraim Fcnno,
Committee to consider the matter of donations to the poor of Boston,
ComiTiitlee to consider the account of the persons to procure arms for the
colony array, .......
Committee to consider a resolve relative to the goods of Thomas Hutch
inson, ........
Committee to consider the expediency of making a draw bridge of the
bridge at Cambridge, ......
Resolve that no more commissions be delivered at present,
Committee to consider in what manner the late inhabitants of Boston
may choose members to represent that town in the next general as
sembly, .......
Resolve for supplying the chaplain with a liorse, .
444,
444,
436
436
437
437
437
438
439
440
441
441
441
441
412
442
442
445
443
444.
.446
449
444
414
443
443
443
445
445
443
443
445
416
446
CONTENTS.
XXXIX
July 1 — Committee to report an establishment for the commissary of medical
stores, .......
Capt. I'artridgc chosen a member of the committee of supplies,
Order respecting a quorum of the committee of supplies,
CommiUee to consider the suflerings of Abraham Nimliam,
Committee to consider the conduct of the pc<)i>le of ISiintucket,
Coinniillee to answer tlie letter from New llam|)si)ire, «!tc.
Order for pacing llic account of 3Ir. William While,
Letter to Gov. Trumbull of Connecticut, .
Committee to consider a letter relative to the plans of the eastern parts
of the sea coasts, ......
Andrew Craigic appointed commissary of medical stores.
Report of the committee on the loss of the Indian Nimham,
Resolve relating to the estates of the refugees ordered to subside,
" 5 — Committee to inform Gen. Washington of tlie intention of Congress to
rise, ......■•
List of surgeons approved of, and ordered to receive warrants, .
Form of warrant for a medical commissary,
Committee to procure 200 a.\es for the army.
Report of the committee appointed to consider in what \\ ay the late in
habitants of Boston shall choose representatives,
Letter to Hon. James Russell, respecting public money in his hands,
Committee to consider some method to prevent intelligence and provis
ions being carried to our enemies, ....
Rci)ort and resolve relative to making a draw bridge at Cambridge,
Committee on a petition from Jonathan Brewer, relative to recruits for his
regiment, .......
Committee to distribute depositions relative to the battle of Lexington,
Resolve for paying the accounts of the committee appointed to procure
fire-arms, .......
Committee to consider a letter from Gen. Ward, relative to supplies o
arms and ammunition, ......
Report of the committee on the petition of the Stockbridge Indians,
Report of the committee on a letter of Mr. Alexander Sheppard, relative
to plans of the province of Maine, ....
Committee to consider measures for removing and securing the lamps and
oil from the Boston light-house, . . . •
Committee on a letter of James Lyon of Machias,
Resolve for convening the assembly in any e.xtraordinary emergency,
Committee to confer with Gen. Washington relative to furnishing his ta-
ble and providing furniture, ....
Letter from James Winthrop, postmaster at Cambridge, and co
thereon, ......
Order respecting sundry letters and maps from England, .
Letter to Gen. W^ashington, relative to the sick and wounded,
Mr. Lothrop chosen a member of the committee of supplies,
Report of the committee and resolve relative to providing coats for the
army, .......
Resolve for paying the account of IMrs. Dorothy Coolidge,
" 6 — Orders relative to providing accommodations for Gen. Washington,
Committee to consider a letter relative to a quantity of flour forwarded to
Norfolk for the army, ... . . . .
446
446
446
446
447
447
447
447
448
448
448
448
449
449
450
450
430
451
451
431
452
452
432
453
433
433
434
434
434
435
433
435
435
436
436
459
460
460
xl
CONTENTS.
July 6 — Resolve relative to impressing a saw mill, .... 460
Committee to prepare a vote of thanks to the committee just retarned
from Ticondcroga, ....... 460
Committee on the account of expenses of entertaining and escorting Gen.
Washington from Springfield, ...... 460
Committee on the report of the gentlemen returned from Tieonderoga, . 461
Letter of Gen. Green respecting the sale of spirituous liquors, . . 461
Committees on several private petitions and accounts, . . • 461
Committee to bring in a resolve relative to the estates of the refugees, . 461
Resolves for paying the expenses of entertaining and escorting Gen-
erals Washingtou and Lee to Cambridge, . . • . 461
Committee relative to a new emission of notes, .... 462
Resolve for pacing the towns for the blankets furnished by them, . 462
Vole of thanks to the committee sent on an embassy' to Tieonderoga, . 462
Committee to consider what allowance should be made for the use of a
house by the committees of the Congress, .... 462
Resolve for making compensation to the committee appointed to procure
fire arms, ........ 462
" 7 — Mr. Shillal)er ordered to bring in a resolve recommending to the commit-
tee of Philadelphia to permit the exportation of flour, . . 463
Committee to consider the subject of seizing the crown officers, . . 463
Committee of safely to draw up and transmit to Great Britain a fair ac-
count of the battle of Charleslown, ..... 463
Committee on a petition of Daniel Murray of Rutland, . . . 463
Committee to consider a resolve relative to the appointment of a master
workman for the blacksmiths, ...... 463
Report of the committee to consider the services of the secretary, made
and recommitted, ....... 464
Order for making out warrants for two surgeons, .... 464
Resolve relative to William Shillaber's lading a vessel with flour for this
colony-, ......... 464
Report of the committee relative to a new emission of bills of credit, . 464
Committee to agree with some person for striking oflf the bills, . . 465
Report on the petition of Daniel Murray, ..... 465
Walter .Spooner, Esq. appointed to swear the soldiers in Bristol, . . 465
Report of the comniiltoc on the report of the gentlemen who have been
on an embassy 'o Tieonderoga, ..... 465
Committee to consider the expense of procuring spears for the army, . 466
Committee to procure a steward for Gen. Washington, . . . 466
Report on the petition of Joseph Hallet, ..... 467
Committee to procure store houses for depositing fish, . . . 467
Committee to consider what provision is made for supplying the army
with clothing, ........ 467
Committee to prepare a letter to Col. Easton, relative to the payment of
the money for the advance pay to his soldiers, . . . 467
Orders relative to supplying the tables of Generals Washington and Lee, 468
Report of the committee to consider what compensation should be made
to the secretary, . ...... 468
Letter to Col. Easton at Tieonderoga, ..... 468
Report of the committee to consider some method to prevent sujiplying
our enemies with provisions, ...... 469
CONTENTS.
xli
July 7 — Report of the committee relative to the expense of providing spears for
llie army, ........
Report of the commitleo to iiujuirc what |)rovi>ioM iiad been made for
shirts, brecclies, &,c. ....
Report relative to siip|)lyiiig llic island of Naiituckcl with provisions,
" 8 — Warrants ordered to he made out for the surgeons,
Committee to consider what should be done relative to the commissions o
the committee of safety, .....
Petition relative to the appointment of commissaries.
Committee on a petition from Frenchman's Bay, for provisions, •
Commitlee to examine the accounts for axes and shovels,
Col. Walker desired to pay tiie money in his hands into the treasury.
Committee to consider a proposal of exempting the soldiers from postage
on letters, .......
Committee on accounts of Major Bliss and Doct. Church,
Committee to countersign new emission of notes, .
Order relative to supplying Gen. Washington \\ith a steward and house
keeper, ........
Report of the commitlee on the petition of Col. Jonathan Brewer,
Order for paying Matthew Clark's account for rej)airing boats, .
Reports on tlie accounts of Major Bliss and Mr. John Cook,
Report on the subject of exempting soldiers from postage, .
Resolve relative to signing the notes, ....
Major Hawley reported a resolve relative to advance pay to the officers
of the army, ......
Report on the subject of stores for the reception of fish, • .
Resolve relative to employing Mr. Revere in striking off the new emiS'
sion of notes, .......
Committee to consider an establishment for four master armorers.
Committee to give passes for removing the poor of Boston,
Jonathan Hastings appointed postmaster of Cambridge, .
Letter to the Congress of New Hampshire,
Resolve relative to the sale of spirituous liquors to the soldiers, .
Resolve relative to supplying the inhabitants of Frenchman's Bay with
provisions, .......
Resolve explanatory of a previous resolve relali\e to the refugees,
" 1) — Letter from IMr. John Scollay relative to llie poor of the town of J5oslon
and committee ihereon, .....
Committee to consider the difficulties in the way of supplying the Lidian:
at Falmouth, Casco Bay, .....
Resolve for supplying the Penobscot Indians with goods.
Report of the commitlee relative to procuring for the army shirts, breeches
&c., and committees therefor, ....
Resolve for paying the expenses of Doct. Chuth's journey to Phila<!cl
phia, ........
Commitlee to provide a dinner for the clergy, on the 19lh iuslaiil,
Committee to get the resolves for procuring shirts, (Sec, printed, .
Resolve relative to tlie poor of Boston and Charlc^town, .
Committee to bring in a resolve for supplying the Penobscot Indians with
gunpowder. July 10 — Report thereof, ,
Resolve relative to Daniel Green, a prisoner,
" 10 — Order relative to the letter of Jolm Scollay,
4fi9
WJ
470
470
470
470
471
471
471
471
471
471
471
472
472
472
472
472
473
473
473
474
474
474
474
475
475
475
176
477
477
478
479
479
479
479
480
480
481
xlii
CONTENTS.
July 10 — Letter from Gen. Lee relative to an interview with Gen. Burgojne, and
Cdrniiiittee to prepare an answer tiicreto,
Committee to examine letters from London, ...
Resolve for furnisiiing Gen. Wasliington with ten horses, .
Elbridge Gerry chosen to attend Gen. Lee on his interview with Gen
Burgnync, .......
Letter from Gen. Washington, relative to a reenforcement for the army,
and committee to consider the same and confer witli him upon the
SLiliject, ........
Letter to Gen. Lee respecting his proposed interview with Gen. Bur-
goyne, ........
Committee to consider the circumstances of the town of Hull,
Committee to consider the situation of the public stock of powder,
Committees on the accounts of John Gill, Moses Lammon and Isaac Bis
sell, ... .....
Committee of supplies directed to write to Charlestown, and VValpole in
New Hampshire, relative to cannon of the colony there,
Order for paying account of Israel Nichols,
Resolve respecting the safe keeping of Daniel Green, a prisoner.
Report on Capt. Lane's account, .....
Resolve for ])aying Simon Hastings, door keeper to Congress,
" ll.^Resolve relative to the donations for the poor of Boston and Charles
town, ........
Report of the committee relative to the circumstances of the town of
Hull,
Resolve in behalf of Capt. Samuel Williams,
Allowance of rum to persons cutting grass on the estates of the refugees
Committee to confer with Gen. Washington on the state of the army.
Committee to devise means to raise a temporary reenforcement of the
army, ........
Committee to see that the fish for the use of the army are taken care of.
Resolve relative to the whale boats, ....
" 12 — Letter to Gov. Trumbull relative to a vessel laden with molasses for the
army in Boston, ......
Committee to make out warrants for surgeons,
Resolve recommending all able bodied men who have left the sea port
towns to return to defend them, ....
Committee on a petition from Capt. Noble, . . ,
Resolves for the payment of sundry accounts for axes, &c.,
Report of the committee relative to the reenforcement of the army,
Committee to take charge of the medical stores, .
Report of the coinniiltee appointed to consider the situation of the publ
stock of powder, ......
Committee to examine fifteen prisoners taken at Long Island,
Committee to enlarge the commission of the committee of safely.
Report of the committee relative to the fifteen prisoners, .
Committee to report an establishment of salt for the army,
Resolve for |)aying Capt. Noble's pay roll, and letter to him,
Report on the account of Mr. John (iill, ....
Report of the committee appointed to devise means for raising a tempo
rary reenforcement for the army, ....
CONTENTS.
xliii
Ji'i.V 12 — Resolve rcroinmciidiii'^ llio roliini of aMc l)0(Iio(I men to ilic sea port
towns, rocoiisiderod, ....•••
" 13 — l.ctlcr from Joseph Reed, sccrolar}- of (Jen \Vasliin;;lon, relative to a rc-
enforcenicnt ("or (lie army, ....••
Committee on a petidon from llarpswell, . . . • •
Commidee to examine the account of Mr. Solomon I.otlirop, for CJitcr-
tainin<^ Gen. Washington, ...•••
Committee to consider some method of supplyiii<j the recruiting' ofTiccrs
with money ; ajid report, ......
Col. Renjnmin Lincoln appointed president of Congress pro tempore.
Petition from llarpswell, and report of the conimiltec thereon,
Resolve for paying Mr. William 15arl)or £UMJ for the use of Capt. No-
ble's company', ........
Resolves relative to (he accounts of Mr. S. Loihrop and Mr. Joini Gill, .
Resolves concerning two prisoners taken at Long Island,
Committee to consider a resolve relative to horses taken from the enemy.
Committee to consider a resolve relative to such soldiers as have enlisted
twice, .........
Committee to bring iu a resolve recommending to the inhabitants not to
kill their sheep, ......
Report of the committee upon an establishment of salt for the soldiers,
Resolve relative to the horses captured, ....
Report of the committee for the protection of sheep,
Resolves for the payment of certain accounts.
Resolve relative to soldiers who have enlisted twice,
Report of the committee as to what towns the ten prisoners shall he sent
to, ....... .
Committee to revise and explain the commission of the committee o
safety, ........
Report of the commiltee, ......
Committees lo examine certain prisoners from Machias, and to consider
the account of the expense of bringing them here.
Reports of the commillees, .....
Vote of the thanks of Congress to Rev. Mr. Gordon, lo the proprietors of
the meeting-house, and to the president.
Committee of supplies authorized to furnish supplies to the eastern parts
of the colony, .......
Resolve relative to the building of whale boats, .
'' 19 — Committee to consider the means of paying Col. Easton's regiment at
Ticonderoga, .......
The Provincial Congress dissolved, ....
492
■11)3
49.3
493
493
491
491.
495
495
495
495
495
495
495
49G
49fi
496
497
497
498
498
499
500
500, 501
501
501
601
501
THE COMMITTEE OF SAFETY AND THE COMMITTEE OF SUPPLIES OF
THE PROVINCIAL CONGRESS.
1774.
Nov. 2 — John Pigeon appointed clerk of the committee of safety, . . 505
Committee of supplies recommended to procure a quantity of provisions
to be deposited at Worcester and Concord, .... 505
" 8 — Committee of sujjplies advised to procure all the ammunition they can, . 505
xliv
CONTENTS.
Nov.8 — Mr. Gill desired to get. seven large cannon from Boston, .
Die. 20 — Voted that the committee of supplies endeavor to procure spades, shov-
els, and other warlike implements, . . . • •
Committee to examine the public stores, .....
Committee to write a letter to Henry Gardner, directing him to call for
immediate payments of the taxes, .....
1773.
Jan. 5 — The last vote, relative to the immediate payment of the taxes, reconsid
ered, .,.....•
Mr. Cheever to procure cannon and carriages, . . .
t' 25 — Cannon, &c. to be deposited in Worcester and Concord, . .
Committee of supplies directed to procure certain military implements
and stores, .......
Committees adjourn to Cambridge, ....
Feb. 3 — The chairman of the committee of supplies directed to report their trans
actions to the Congress, .....
" 13 — Voted to purchase all the powder that can be obtained, .
Committee to procure from Col. Robinson certain cannon, &c. belonging
to the province, and deposit the same at Concord,
" 21— Committees meet at Chariest own, .....
Voted to procure ten tons of brimstone, ....
Committee of supplies directed to purchase all kinds of warlike stores for
an army of 15,000 men, .....
The powder at Concord to be removed to Leicester,
Committee to make an inventory of medical stores necessary for the ar
my, ........
" 22 — Votes directing the committee of supplies to procure bell tents, field tents,
lead balls, cartridges, and certain stores,
Mr. John Pigeon chosen commissary of stores,
Abraham Watson and Moses Gill, committee to take possession and see
to the removal of certain province arms,
Order for assembling the Congress, ....
" 23 — Committee to draft a letter to the officers of the militia, .
Committee to draft a letter to the members of Congress, .
Order for distributing the field pieces, ....
Committee to draft a letter to the colonels relative thereto.
Committee to inquire into the state of Major Paddock's company of ar
tillery, ........
" 24— Artillery companies to consist of thirty-two privates.
Committee of supplies to procure certain stores, .
Committee to inquire where doctor's chests can be procured,
Mr. John Goddard appointed wagon master,
Committee relative to couriers, .....
Eight field pieces, with ammunition, &c., to be deposited at Leicester,
March 7 — Vote authorizing the purchase of medicinal stores.
Watch to be kept over the provincial magazines, . . .
Adjourned to Concord, ......
" 23 — A ton of bullets to be lodged at Concord, ....
Letter from Plymouth representing the unprotected state of the town,
April 1 — The stores at Concord not to be removed without orders from the com
railtee of safely, ......
506
506
506
506
CONTENTS.
xlv
Apnit, 5 — Commlltoc of siipi)lics to fiiriiisli an exact arrount of all llic provisions
and slori'S, .......
" IJ — Voles relative to llie cannon at Concord and powder al Leicester,
Col. Tlioinas Gardner clioscn of the committee of safety,
" 17 — Officers to the companies of artillery appointed, .
Vote relative to the cannon, and an artillery company at Concord,
Eslablibhnu-nt for the companies of artillery,
Certain warlike implements to he sent to Groton and Acton,
Adjourned to Menoloni}', ......
" IS — Capt. Timothy Bigclow requested to attend the meeting of iJie com
niiltce al flicnolomy, ......
Votes relative to the removal and dc|)osit of the ammunition and provis
ions, ........
Six animunilion carts to be provided, ....
The companies of matrosses stationed in the several towns,
Voles for the purchase, removal and deposit of ammunition, -warlike
stores and implements, .....
The medicinal chests ordered to be placed in certain lowns for safety,
" 19 — Letter to Col. Karretl relative to the powder at Leicester,
" 20 — Circular to the several lowns for assembling- an army,
Letter to ihe colonies of New Hampshire and Connecticut,
Letter from Docl. Warren to Gen. Gage, relative to the removal of the
inhabitants from Boston, .....
" 21 — Form of enlistment for the soldiers, ....
Resolve for enlisting an army of eight thousand men, and for the organi
zation thereof, .......
Votes relative to removing certain field pieces, and preparing them for ac
lion, ........
Companies to consist of fifty men, . . . . •
Order for the removal of certain provisions from Salem to Cambridge,
The general officers ordered to make returns of officers and men,
" 22 — The stores ordered to be removed from the seaport towns.
Commissary general directed to inspect the entrenching tools,
Letter from the committee of safety to a committee of the inhabitants of
Boston, .......
" 24 — Letter to the Congress of New Hampshire,
Resolve relative to the inhabitants of Maiden and Chelsea firing upon the
British seamen, ......
" 25 — Col. Freeman directed to secure the whale boats al Cape Cod, .
Resolve for enlisting troops in New Hampshire, .
Resolve relative to the size of the companies.
Escort for the members of the Continental Congress,
" 26— Fifteen prisoners to be removed from Concord to Worcester,
Congress recommended to make an establishment for armorers, .
Resolve relative to the enlistments into the army,
^ 27 — Capt. Derby directed to proceed, with despatches, to London,
Recommendation to appoint two majors to each regiment,
Letter to the colonies of Riiode Island and Connecticut, . .
Order for preventing intelligence being carried to the British,
Letters to the selectmen of Boston, ....
•" 28 — Vote relative to an establishment for post riders, .
President Langdon appointed chaplain to the army.
5H
5\i
51i
515
515
515
515
515
516
51G
516
516
517
517
513
513
513
519
519
520
520
520
520
521
521
521
521
621
522, 523
522
522
522
622
522
523
523
523
523
523
524
524
525
625
Xlvi CONTENTS.
April 28 — The commissarj' general directed to provide quarters for troops from
Connecticut, . . ...... 525
Votes relative to giving out enlisting orders, .... 525
Agreement of Gen. Gage with the inhabitants of Boston relative to their
removal, ........ 526
Committee thereon, ....... 526
" 29 — Committee upon a vote of the Congress relative to the removal of the inhab-
itants of Boston, ....... 526
Circular to the several towns calling for recruits for the army, . . 526
Votes relative to a reenforcement of the arm}', .... 526
Expresses to have power to impress horses, .... 627
Vote relative to the removal of the sick into the hospital, . . 527
The commissary ordered to provide for Col. Arnold's company, . 527
Gen. Thomas ordered to seize Gov. Hutchinson's papers, . . 527
Letters from Hon. John Hancock, at Worcester, .... 527
Vote relative to the companies at Medford and Dartmouth, . . 528
Mr. Watson ordered to make inquiry re'ative to the colony arms, . 528
Order for securing the cannon in case of an excursion of the king's troops, 528
" 30 — Information from Col. Arnold relative to the fortress at Ticonderoga, . 529
Committee to form a plan for the liberation of the inhabitants of Boston, 529
Officers to grant permits to citizens to enter Boston, . . . 529
Resolve authorizing persons to go into ihc town of Boston, . . 529
Order to Col Samuel Gerrish relative thereto, .... 529
Andrew Craigie appointed medical commissary, .... 530
Josej)!) Pierce Palmer recommended to the office of quarter master gen-
eral, 530
May 1 — Resolve for making the paper currency of the colonies of Connecticut
and Rhode Island a currency in this colony, .... 530
Rev. Mr. Gordon authorized to have free access to the prisoners, for ex-
amining them, ........ 530
" 2 — Committee to confer with Gen. Ward relative to Col. Arnold's attempt
upon Ticonderoga, ....... 530
Vote relative to a number of recantations from Marblehead, . . 531
Order for payiug money and delivering ammunition to Col. Arnold, . 531
Two companies to be raised in Braintree for the defence of the coast of
said town, ........ 531
Letter from Gen. Thomas relative to the seizure of Gov. Hutchinson's
papers, ........ 531
Resolve relative to the removal of citizens into Boston with their effects, 532
Votes relative to Col. Arnold's expedition, .... 532
Commissary general directed to take care of the stores belonging to Gen.
Brattle and others, ....... 532
Letter to the governor and company of Connecticut relative to a confer-
ence of their agents with Gen. Gage, .... 532
" 3 — Two companies to be raised for the defence of the sea coast of Maiden
and Chelsea, ........ 533
The quarter master general directed to protect the property of the refu-
gees, .... ..... 534
Instructions to Col. Benedict Arnold, • . . . . 534
" 4 — Vote authorizing certain companies to be raised for the defence of the sea
coast of Braintree, Ilingham and Weymouth, . . . 534
Petition of Ihc selectmen of said towns, ..... 535
CONTENTS.
xlvii
Mat 1 — Pclilion from Brunswick for powder and nrnis,
liesolvc relative to assuming; the powers of government,
Letter to the colony of Connecticut relative to the marcliin;; of three or
four tliousaiid of their men, .....
William Cooper appointed clerk to the coinmlllcc.
Eight fire-aims received for the ii<.> ol the colony and dislributcti,
Letter to the inhabitants of New York, ....
Letter to the governor and company of Rhode Island,
Vote relative to the men enlisted into the army, .
Vote relative to the removal of the regiments from Plymouth to the camp
at Koxhury, .......
Committee to confer with the council of war relative to the arrival o
troops from England, ......
" 7 — Recommendation to Congress respecting the nomination of surgeons,
Proceedings relative to damages to the property of refugees.
Selectmen of Chelsea desired to prevent provisions from being carried
into the town of Boston, .....
Letter to the committee of safety of Albany,
" 9 — Congress desired to prepare a new commission for the committee of safe
ty, • • •
Order for the immediate reenforcement of the arm}',
A court of inquiry, for the trial of accused persons, recommended,
" 10 — Vote relative to the defence of the sea coast of Oohasset,
Resolve recommending the ap])ointmenl of master carpenters for making
whale boats and other vessels, ....
Communications relative to certain intended movements of the BritisI
troops, and order thereon, .....
Letters to the colonels of the army for calling in the troops to the camps at
Cambridge and Roxbury, .....
Letter to the president of the Provincial Congress enclosing the same.
Orders for seizing and securing certain boats,
The ctilonels with their regiments ordered to repair forthwith to Cam
bridge, ........
" 11 — Mr. William Cooper, Jr. appointed clerk to Doct. W^arren,
" 12 — Mr. Charles Miller appointed deputy commissar}-,
Vote for supplying Mr. Isaiah Thomas with printing paper.
Report of a joint committee appointed to reconnoitre the highlands ii
Cambridge and Charlestown, .....
Resolve relative to the seizure of the officers of the crown,
" IS-^Gen. Thomas appointed to deliver out medicines to the sick soldiers a
Roxbury, .......
Resolve relative to a number of men enlisted under Col. Jonathan Brewer
Resolve relative to one Thomas Nichols, a negro,
" 11 — The commissary of medical stores directed to impress beds and other ne
cessaries for the sick, ......
Resolve for purchasing a quantity of tar, ....
Resolve relative to one Josiali Martin suspected of favoring the tyrannical
designs of administration, .....
Resolve relative to the live stock on the islands, .
Committee to procure a particular account of the ordnance and military
stores, .........
635
636
63G
53G
63G
637
637
637
537
538
638
538
638
638
639
540
640
540
540
541
511
541
542
512
542
542
542
543
543
544
644
644
545
545
545
645
^5
xlviii
CONTENTS.
May 14 — Vote relative to the treatment of persons escaping from their imprison-
ment in the town of Boston, ...... 646
Resolve for dismissing certain men of Col. Fellows' and Col. Porter's regi-
ments, ........
" 15 — List of the ordnance and military stores of the province, .
Vote relative to the Hampshire companies under Col. Stark,
Order for imprisoning Capt. Joini Walker of Worcester,
Vote relative to a company from Maiden, ....
The commissary general directed to Airnish nine Indians of Col. Porter
regiment with provisions, for their return home, . .
Vote giving Lady Frankland liberty to pass into Boston,
House for the use of the committee of safety, ...
Recommendation to Congress relative to the records of the county o
Middlesex, .......
Mr. John Goddard appointed wagon master, and empowered to impress
wagons and cattle for the public service,
" 16 — Order for removing a prisoner, who is a paper maker, from Worcester to
Milton, ........
Resolve relative to the whale boats, ....
Establishment for ten companies of matrosses, . . .
" 17 — Resolves relative to certain ordnance and stores, .
Committee to request of Congress that the duty of the committee of safe
ty may be precisely staled, .....
Committee to see that the college walls are kept in repair.
Resolve relative to the removal of the inhabitants of the colony into
Boston, .......
Votes relative to Capl. Edward How, and a fraud practised upon the chair
man of the commiltee, .....
Resolve for preventing intelligence being carried into the town of Boston
" 19 — Colonels Gerrish and Learned recommended to Congress to be commiS'
sioned, ........
Letter to the several colonels for the returns of the state of their regi
ments, ........
Several armorers appointed, .....
Samuel Barrett, of Boston, recommended by the committee to the favor
and good opinion of his countrymen, ....
'< 20 — Resolve relative to the admission of slaves into the army,
Col. Joseph Read's regiment recommended to be commissioned.
Letter to Gen. Preble relative to the enlistment of troops in the county of
Cumberland, .......
" 23 — Resolve relative to securing the stock on the islands and sea coasts.
Order to the innkeepers, &c. for supjjlying certain agents of the colony
with necessaries upon their journey, ....
Report and proceedings relative to Doct. Nathaniel Bond, of Marble
head, ........
Letter from Hon. Benjamin Greenleaf, declining his appointment as a
member of the committee of safety, ....
State of the New England army, and resolve thereon,
<i 21 — Mode of making returns of the regiments, ...
" 22 — Express riders discharged from the service of the colony,
. Letter from the committee of suj)plies to Congress relative to the dis
charge of their duties, . ..... 557
CONTENTS. xlix
INIay -I — KccoiDiiicndutioMs (ii Coiii^rcss In take some or<ifr respecliiif; llic reino-
val of llio slock from llic islands, . . . • . .O/i?
The commissary general directed lo lurnisli certain [icrsons and troops
willi stippiius, ,.....•. •557
" 2G — Several of the colonels are rcconnncMKlcd l>y ilic coniniitlce to ilic (con-
gress lo receive commissions, ...... 55u
" 27 — Order for securing animals put into the enclosures of Thomas Oliver ami
John Vassal, ........ 558
Letter to the Provincial Congress relative to ihc conduct of Major Abijah
JJrown of Wallham, ....... 559
" 2!> — A number of ginis were received from (iraflon, .... 559
" 29 — Proceedings of the coniniillee in relation lo certain charges against Rob-
ert Temple, ........ 559
Letter from IMr. Temple, ....... 5G0
C'ol. Follows' regiment recommended for commissions, . . . 5G0
Resolve relative to a volume of Gov. Hutchinson's letters, . . 5G0
'• 30— Order for removing from Chelsea certain cannon and stores, . . 561
" 31 — The committee met at Walerlown to attend the election sermon of the
Rev. Doct. liangdon, ....... 561
June 1 — Immediate returns required of the number of men in camp, . . 561
" 2 — Col. Ni.xon's regiment recommended to he commissioned, . . 561
•' 3 — Col. Gridley required to make return of the artillery, . . . 561
" 5 — Col. Glover's regiment recommended to be commissioned, . . 562
Resolve relative to the regiment of the train, .... 562
•' 9 — Resolve relative to the repair of fire-arms by the armorers, . . 562
" 10 — Col. John Glover directed to remain with his regiment at Marblehead, . 562
Resolve relative lo the grass growing on the estates of the refugees, . 563
, A return of gentlemen commissioiied, and of candidates for commissions,
as colonels, ..... ... 5C3
" 12 — Three armorers appointed, ..... . . 565
■• 13— The colonels ordered to make immediate returns of the state of their reg-
iments, ......... 565
Report of the t(uaiility of powder in the possession of the committee of
supplies, ........ 566
Debates and delcrmir.ations of the committee lo be ke[)t in profound se-
crecy, ......... 566
Resolve relative to Daniel Adams, a lunatic, • . . . 566
Resolve relative to the destruction of the property of the refugees, . 566
Representation from the quarter master general, respecting a great want
of tents and barracks, . . . . . . . 566
'• 1 ! — C'oinuiiltee to proceed to the house of Thomas Ireland, of Charlcstown,
to search for an infamous woman named Jackson, . . . 567
(Jen. Heath's regiment recommended to be commissioned, . . 567
Loss of Mr. Nathaniel Mulliken, at the battle of Lexington, . . 567
" 15 — Allowance of provisions to the soldiers in the army, . . . 568
Committee to confer with the council of war and general officers, relative
to the fortification of Bunker hill and Dorchester neck, . . 568
Resolve relative to the reenforcement of the army, . . . 568
Resolve relative to the occupation of Hunker's hill and Dorchester neck, 569
" 16 — Committee to inquire whether any tents or houses arc to be obtained for
the troo|xs, ........ 569
Olliccrs in (Jol. Gridley 's rcginuuit of the train, .... 569
1 CONTENTS.
June 17 — Colonels David and Jonathan Brewer recommended to Confess for com-
missions, . . . . • • • .5(0
Letter to the selectmen of the towns in the vicinity of Boston relative to
powder, .....••• "0
Letter relative to a small pox hospital, ..... 570
Circular to the towns relative to supplies of provisions for the army, . 570
" 18 — Letter to the commanding officers of the militia of certain towns, for the
march of their regiments, ...... 571
Letter countermanding the above order, ..... 571
" 19 — Mr. William Eustis appointed to the care of a hospital, . . • 571
Order for providing hospitals for the army, .... 571
Nomination of officers for the company of artificers, . . • 572
Resolve for procuring the names of persons killed or wounded in the bat-
tle of Lexington, .,..•.• 572
" 20 — Representation to the Congress respecting John Wiley, nominated to the
command of a company in the train, ..... 672
" 21 — Col. Woodbridge's regiment recommended to be commissioned, . . 573
Resolve relative to the horses to be kept in the public stables, . . 573
Congress recommended to make an establishment for aid de camps to the
generals, ........ 674
" 22— A number of officers recommended to be commissioned, . . . 574
The town of Medford requested to supply shovels for the works on Win-
ter hill, 574
" 23 — The colonels requested to make immediate returns of the state of their
respective regiments, ....... 674
The committee recommend the appointment of two supervisors of the
camps, ......... 574
Committee to view the encampment on Prospect hill, . . . 675
Fire-arms received from Attleborough and Rehoboth, . . . 575
" 24 — Orders relative to the horses in the stable of John Vassal, . . 676
Certain fire-arms received and delivered out by the committee, . . 576
Tlie artificers directed to carry on their works in the buildings of Mr.
John Pigeon, ........ 576
" 25 — Representation to Congress relative to the appointment of two supervi-
sors of the camps, ....... 577
" 26 — An account of fire-arms collected and distributed by the committee, . 577, 578
The officers in Col. Little's regiment recommended to Congress for com-
missions, ........ 677
Doct. John Warren appointed to the oversight of the hospital in Cam-
bridge, ......... 678
" 27 — Account of John Chandler Williams as a rider in the colony service, . 678
Several officers in Col. Gridley's regiment recommended to Congress, . 578
A large number of fire arms received for the service of the colony, . 579
«■ 28 — Resolve ol the Provincal Congress relative to supplying the army wiih
fire-arms, ........ 579
Order from Gen Ward to the committee of safely for the delivery of said
arms, ......... 580
Protest of the committee against the above general order, . . 580
Fire-arms delivered to several of the colonels for the use of their regi-
ments, ......... 581
Resolve relative to Capt. Samuel Russell Trevet, arrested for alleged
misconduct in th«; battle of the 17ih of June, .... 681
CONTENTS.
li
June SO — Resolve repommendiiig to Coiiijrcss to lake measures to prevent the
8|)rea(liii^ of tlic small pox, ...... 582
Ilcsolve /cl.'iiivc to the accounts of persons for services to the colony, . 582
" 30 — Accounts of fire-arms received for the use of the colony, and of iliose de-
livered to certain colonels of ihe army, .... 582, 583
Col. Palmer directed to attend Congress to procure information relating
to a further emission of bills of credit, .... 583
Congress requested to take some order respecting the whale boats which
have been collected, . . . . ... 583
The commissary directed to supply head quarters with provisions, . 683
Jllv 1 — Order for the disposal of the hay under the care of Mr. David Sanger, 584
List of fire-arms received and distributed by the committee, . . 584
" 3 — Resolve for the seizure and removal of certain property belonging to
Thomas Hutchinson and others, ..... 585
Recommendation of the committee in favor of Henries Vomhavi, . 586
Account of William White as an express rider, .... 586
" 4 — Leave of absence granted to Mr. George Armstron , . . . 586
Order for filling widow Vassal's barn with hay, .... 586
List of tire-arms di.stribuled and received by the committee, . . 586, 587
" 5 — Accounts of John Bulfinch and others, ..... 687
Orders relative to the hay on John Vassal's estate in Cambridge, . 687
" 6 — Mr. Fisk authorized to cut a quantity of hay from Jonathan Sewall's
farm, ......... 688
Resolve recommending to the Provincial Congress to issue a sum not ex-
ceeding one hundred thousand pounds, in bills of credit, . . 588
Letter to Gen Washington relative to certain horses taken on Bunker's
hill, 589
Resolve recommending to Congress to procure and transmit to Great
Britain a fair and impartial account of the battle of Charlestown, . 589
Resolve recommending the seizure of every crown officer within the uni-
ted colonies, ........ 589
List of fire-aims received and delivered by the committee, . .590,591
The committee recommended the appointment by Congress of master
workmen for the blacksmiths, ...... 590
*' 7 — Accounts of 31atihew Clark and Isaac Bissell passed upon by the com-
mittee, ......... 590
Thomas Organ recommended to the care of the colony horses, . . .590
Resolve for the suppression of retailers of spirituous liquors, . . 591
Letter to the sclecimcn of Reading relative to one Capt. Jacob Rogers, 591
" C — Mr. Jonathan Hastings recommended to Congress for postmaster at Cam-
bridge, ...... ... 592
Resolve recommending an establishment for four master armorers, . 592
Instructions to the officers of the army who are to go upon the recruiting
service, ......... 592
Resolve relative to soldiers enlisting into different companies in the army, 593
Resolve for fitting up the house of John V'assal, for the residence of Gen-
eral Washington, ....... 593
" 10 — Letter to the towns required to furnish clothing for the army, . . 593
" 11 — Resolves for sending Monsieur Viart, a Frenchman, to the town of Wor-
cester, ......... 591
Committee to draw up a true statement of the battle of Charlestown, . 594
Resolve relative to a number of horses taken from the enemy, . . 595
Hi
CONTENTS.
July 11 — Resolve relative to fifteen prisoners taken at Long' Island,
" 12 — Benjamin (iuillani appointed a master armorer. Duties of said office,
" 13 — Thomas Organ appointed to take care of tlie colony liorses, .
Resolve relative to ten prisoners taken at Macliias,
Resolve relative to properly plundered from tiie inhabitants in the confu
sion occasioned by the battle of Lexington and Charlestown,
" 14— Resolve relative to the appointment of Thomas Organ as keeper of the
colony horses, .......
" 13 — Resolve for procuring a supply of medicines for the army.
Letter to Mr. Commissary Craigie relative thereto,
595
595
595
696
596
597
697
597
CONVENTIONS OF THE PEOPLE IN THE COUNTIES OF MASSA-
CHUSETTS.
1774.
Convention of Suffolk County.
Sept. 6 — The convention meets at Dedham and adjourns to Milton,
" 9 — Meets at Milton. Joseph Palmer chosen moderator,
Preamble and resolutions reported to, and passed by the convention,
Committee appointed to wait on Governor Gage, ....
" 12 — Address of the committee to his excellency Thomas Gage,
His excellency's answer, .......
Meeting of the committee of the delegates of the count}',
Address of the committee to Governor Gage in reply to his answer to the
committee, ........
'' 13— Governor Gage refuses to receive the address of the committee in form,
Resolve of the committee for printing said address,
The committee adjourned without day, .....
1774.
Convention of Middlesex County.
Aug 30, 31 — The committees of the towns and districts in the county meet in cob
vention at Concord, ......
List of the delegates, ......
James Prescott chosen chairman, .....
Committee to take into consiileration an act of parliament for regulating
the government of the province of IMassachusetts Bay,
Report of the committee, ......
The report and resolutions acceptetl by the convention, .
The towns and districts in the county recommended to appoint delegates
to the Provincial Congress, .....
A copy of the proceedings of the convention to be sent to the Contineii'
tal Congress, and to the town clerk of each town in the county.
The convention dissolved, ......
1774.
Convention of Essex County.
Sept. G, 7 — 'Delegates from every town in the county meet at Ipswich,
List of delegates, ........
Jeremiah Lee, Esq. chosen chairman, .....
A committee chosen to consider and report on the late act of parliament
for regulating the government of the province, and other papers.
€01
601
601
605
603
607
607
607
609
609
609
G09
609
610
610
611
614
614
614
614
615
615
615
615
CONTENTS.
liii
C21
G21
621
622
622
Skpt. G, 7 — Resolutions rcporlcd liy llie commiitcc, and unanimously arccptcd, . 616
Comniillcc lo wail on William Hrowii, one of iiis majisiy's councillors of
the province, ....•••• G18
'• y — Answer of the Hon. William 15rowii lo the commiitcc appointed to wail
upon him, ......•• ol8
Convention of Hampshire County.
rn\.
Sept. 22, 23 — Committees of all the towns, excepting Charlemont and Soutliwick,
meet at Northampton, .....•• C19
Ebenezer Hunt, Jr. chosen clerk, and Timothy Danielson, chairman of
the convention, ....... 619
Resolulions adopted by the convention, ..... 619
Convention of Plymouth Count)/.
1774.
Skpt. 2(j — Delejjates from every town in the county meet at Plimpton and adjourn
to Plymouth, .....
" 27 — Convention meets at Plymouth,
List of delegates in attendance,
Hon. .Tames Warren chosen chairman,
Committee to bring in a report to the convention, .
Preamble and resolutions reported by the committee, and unanimously
accepted by the convention, ...... 622
Convention of Bristol County.
1774.
Sept. 28, 29 — Convention meets in the court house in Taunton, . . . 626
List of towns represented, . ...... 626
Zephaniah Leonard chosen chairman, ..... 626
Resolutions adopted by the convention, ..... 626
Convention of Worcester County.
1774.
Aug. 9 — Committee of corres])ondcnce and delegates meet in Worcester, . 627
Names of the members of the convention, .... 628
William Young elected chairman, and William Henshaw, clerk, . 628
Connnittee to draw up resolves lo lay before the convention, . . 628
" 10 — Same committee lo write a letter to the delegates of the province lo the
Continental Congress, ....... 629
Letter lo the towns not represented in this convention, desiring them to
send delegates to its adjourned meeling, .... 629
Resolves reported to, and unanimously adopted bv, the convention, . 630
Convention adjourned lo the last Tuesda}' of August, . . . 631
" 30 — Tlie convention met and adjourned to the count)' court house, . . 631
Committee lo consider the stale of public alTairs, and lo prepare resolves
for the convention, ....... 631
" 31 — Resolutions reported by the committee and accepted, . . . 632
Proceedings relative to an apprehended visit of the royal troops to Wor-
cester, ......... 633
Official despatches of General Gage lo the Earl of Dartmouth, relative
thereto, ......... 633
Measures of defence recommended to the people, . . • 634
Voted to adjourn to the sixth of September, .... 635
liv
CONTENTS.
Sept. 6 — Convention met at the house of Timothy Bigelow.
Proceedings in relation to ilie sitting of the courts in Worcester,
Large assembly of the'people, .....
Vole relative to the royalist inhabitants who have protested against the
patriotic resolutioi-.s of the town, ....
Military oiTicers recommended to resign their commissions,
Towns to choose officers, and to make other military arrangements,
Address of the justices of the county of Worcester to Gov. Gage,
His excellency's answer, ......
Votes relative to the justices who signel the address to Gov. Gage,
Declaration signed by the justices that they will stay all judicial proceed
ings of iho courts, ......
Declaration by other officers of the court, ....
Committee to draw up a vole relative to the administration of justice and
protection of the justices, .....
" 7 — Recantation of the justices who signed the address to Gov. Gage,
Resolve authorizing the justices who were in office on the last day of June
to continue to discarge the duiii s of their offices.
Voted to put thejavvs in execution respecting pedlers.
Voted that the Norfolk exercise'be adopted by the militia,
Votes relative to Mr. Samuel Paine, clerk of the courts, .
The convention adjourned to the 20th instant,
" 8 — Meeting of the blacksmiths of the county, ....
Proceedings and resolutions thereof, ....
" 20 — Committee to prepare instructions to the representatives to be chosen.
The sheriff directed to adjourn the court appointed to be held this day,
" 21 — Letter of apology from Mr. Samuel Paine, . .
Committee thereon, and report relative thereto,
Declaration of Gardiner Chandler, Esq., apologizing for presenting the
address to Gov. Gage, .....
Inhabitants of the county recommended to submit all cases in dispute to
arbitration, ( uring the suspension of the sittings of the courts.
Instructions to the representatives of the towns, .
The town> recommended to procure ammunition and field pieces.
Resolve relative to the imports from Great Britain, . .
Committee of correspondence forthe county api)ointed, .
Disision of the regiments in the county. ....
Recommendation to the towns to elect military oflicers and to enlist troops
Vole relative to persons confined in jail for debt, .
Remomstrance to his excellency General Gage, .
Adjourned to the first 'J'uesday of December, ...
Dec. 6 — Note from Mr. Secretary Flucker, relative to the direction of the above
remonstrance, .......
Answer of Gov. Gage, ......
Vote recommending the raising an artillery company, . .
Committee to put in order the votes of this convention,
Votes relative to the payment of the public moneys to Harrison Gray
Esq .........
Committee relative to the royalist covenant drawn by Gen. Ruggles,
Committee to incjuire why the officers of the mililia have not resigned
their commissions, ......
Votes relative to the establishment of a printing office in the county,
CONTENTS.
Dec. 6 — Adjourned lo Jannarv 2G, 1775, ...•••
1775.
Jan. 2G — Commillce relative lo the non-cons '1111)11011 rovcnanls of the Continental
and Provincial Congresses, .....
Vote relative to the choice of a county treasurer, .
Nou-tunsumption association and covenant for the county,
IL\ Fish invited lo preach a sermon before the convention,
Re- orl and resolves relative to the sale of spirituous liquors,
Resolve relative lo certain newspapers, ....
Report of a committee relative lo the stale of trade, and for discounle
imiic ng riots and routs, .....
March 28 — Convention attended a sermon by Rev. Elisha l"'i>k, .
May 31 — Commiltee to draw up a remonstrance to the Provincial Congress rela
live to the qualifications of its members,
Resolve for a commiilee lelative lo the right of voting, . .
Resolve recommending the erection of a paper mill in the county.
1774.
Convention of Berkshire County.
July 6 — Convention meets at Stockbridge, .....
Resolutions of the convention, ......
Articles of covenant for the inhabilanls of the county, to prevent the con-
sumption o Biit.sh merchandise, .....
A day of fasting recommended, ......
1 i e poor of Bosl ii an.. Charli,-si> wn recommended to the charily of the
inhabitants of the county, ......
1774.
Convention of Cumberland County.
Sept. 21 — Convention mrt at Falmouth, ......
List of the delegates, .......
Proceedings relative to William Tyng, Esq., sheriff of the county,
Comm lee to frame a report containing the sentiments of the convention,
" 22 — Report of ihe above commiltee, ......
The committee of Falmouth empowered to notify future meetings of the
coDveation, ........
NARRATIVES OF THE EXCURSION OF THE KINGS TROOPS,
April 19, 1775.
Resolve of the Provincial Congress for publishing the narrative of the excursion
and ravages ol the king's troops, April ID, 177.J, ingetherwith dej>osilions
taken by order of Congress, .....
Narrative, reported by Doct. Chuich, chairman of a committee of Congress,
Depositions taken and authenticated by order of Congress, lo prove the facts rela-
tive to sa.d aclion, .......
List of the Provincials who were killed, wounded or missing, in the action of
April 19th, and the towns lo which they belonged,
Brili:>h ofTirial account of said action, .....
Intercepted letters relating to said action, wiiiten by British officers and soldiers
in Boston, ........
Statements of ihe losses sustained by the inhabitants from the ravages of the Brit-
ish troops, April 19, 1775, ......
Accounts of damages done to individuals, .....
Iv
648
G18
64S
618
649
649
650
650
651
651
651
651
652
652
653
654
654
655
655
655
656
656
660
661
661
662
678
679
682
684
686
Ivi
CONTENTS.
PAPERS RELATING TO TICONDEROGA AND CROWN POINT.
1775.
April 30 — Letter from Benedict Arnold to tlie committee of safety, stating the mil
itary stores and condition of Ticonderoga,
Letter of [the committee of safely to the Congress of New York, in
forming them ol the proposition to seize Ticonderoga,
May 11 — Letter of Edward Mott to the Provincial Congress, containing an ac
count of the capture of Ticonderoga,
Certificate of Col. Easton and others, relative to the command of that
fortress, .......
Letter of Benedict Arnold to the committee of safety, containing an ac
count of his expedition, .....
" 14 — Letter of Benedict Arnold to the same, giving information of the cap
ture of Crown Point, ......
List of cannon, mortars, and stores, taken at Ticonderoga and Crown
Point, May 11, 1775,
" 19 — Letter from Benedict Arnold to the committee of safety relative to the cap
ture of a king's sloop, ......
" 23 — Letter from the same to the same, stating an expedition of Col. Allen, and
the condition and supplies of Crown Point,
" 25 — Letter from Gov. Trumbull to the Provincial Congress, communicating the
measures adopted for the defence of the northern posts,
" 22 — Letter from the committee of New York to Gov. Trumbull, regardinj
supplies, .......
" 18 — Resolve of the Continental Congress, relative to the removal of the can
non and stores from Ticonderoga, ....
" 23 — Letter from the committee of Coimecticut to the general assembly of that
colony, reporting their mission to New York,
" 26 — Letter from the Congress of New York to the committee of safety,
Letter from j^Benedict Arnold to the committee of safety, respecting mil
itary stores and supplies, .....
" 27 — Letter from the General Assembly of Coimecticut to the Provincial Con
gress, stating the tem])orary relief afforded by that colony,
" 29 — Letter of Gov. Trumbull to the Provincial Congress, stating the recn
forcements and supplies furnished for the support of the northern
posts, ........
" 25— Letter from the Congress of New York to the assembly of Connecticut
reporting their orders for removing the cannon and stores from Ti
conderoga, ........
" 29 — Letter from Benedict Arnold to the committee of safety', remonstrating
against such removal, ......
" 30 — Letter from James Easton to the Provincial Congress, explaining his po
sition, and soliciting an appointment to command a regiment,
June 1 — Letter from Gov. Trumbull to the Provincial Congress, respecting the
resolutions of the Continental Congress,
" 6 — Letter from Col. James Easton to the Provincial Congress, upon the dis
position of the Canadians and their Indians, .
" 1 — Proclamations of Cols. Allen and Easton to the French people of (."aaada
to conciliate friendship, .....
CONTENTS. Ivii
Ji i.T C, — Report of the committee appointed by llie Provincial Confess to pro-
reed to Ticoinlero;;.-! niid Crown Point, relating to the conduct of
Col. AnioUl, the military force, stores, and conditiou of those posts, 717
Return of ilie ortlnance stores at Crown Point, . . . . 71 'J
Ucturn of the stores at Ticondcroga, ..... 720
Ju.sE 23 — Letter from the committee of the Provincial Congress to Benedict Ar-
nold, accepting his resignation of command at those fortresses, and
requiring him to render his accounts, ..... 720
Letter from the same committee to the Continental Congress, on the im-
portance of those fortresses, ...... 720
July 3 — Letter from the same committee to Gov. Trumbull on same subject, and
the dismission of Col. Arnold, ...... 722
Letter from the same commiitee to the Congress of New York, on the
same subjects, ........ 723
" 7 — Letter from the Congress of New York to the Committee of Safety, ex-
pressing reliance on the direction of the Continental Congress, . 724
Doings of iJie Continental Congress.
Mat 30 — Letter from Col. Arnold received, informing of preparations to recapture
Ticonderoga and Crown Point, and requiring reenforcements,
Resolve on the letter requesting troops from Connecticut,
JvsE 1 — Commissaries at Albany for supplies recommended to be appointed by
Connecticut, .......
" 8 — Committee to examine JIajor Skene, lately appointed governor of Ticon
deroga and Crown Point, and his officers.
The committee directed to conceal matters of a private nature, .
" 10 — The committee report. Gov. Skene and his officers released on parole,
" 19 — Letters from Massachusetts read, and the forces of Connecticut, not em
ployed at the northern posts, directed to be marched to Boston,
" 22 — Resolves for the pay of the forces employed in the reduction of Crown
Point and Ticonderoga, ...
72.T
725
725
726
72C
72f.
72(5
EXTRACTS FROM THE JOLR.NALS OF THE CONTINENTAL CONGRESS
RELATLNG TO MASSACHUSETTS.
1774.
Sept. 14 — Resolutions of the Middlesex Convention were presented and read, 727
" 17 — The resolutions of the Suffolk Convention, with the address to Governor
Gage, were presented, ...... 727
Resolve of Congress, approving the opposition to ministerial measures
and the arts of parliament, and recommending perseverance in the
course e.xpressed by the SutTolk resolutions, .... 727
Resolve that contributions should be made for relieving the distresses of
the inhabitants of Boston, ...... 728
The resolves to be sent to Boston, and to be published, . . . 728
Oct. 6 — Letter received from the committee of correspondence of Boston, stating
the situation of the town, the disregard of their petitions for relief,
and praying the advice of Congress, ..... 72J?
" 7 — Mr. Lynch, Mr. S. Adams, and Mr. Pendleton, appointed a committee to
prepare a letter to Gen. Gage, expressing the opinions of Congress, 720
H
Iviii CONTENTS.
Oct. S — Resolve approving- the opposition of Massachusetts to the acts of parlia-
ment, 729
" 10 — Resolve expressing the opinion of Cong-rcss that all America ought to
contribute to recompense the inhabitants of Boston for the injury they
may sustain by removal, ...... 729
Resolve reconmiending to the inhabitants of Massachusetts to submit to
the suspension of the administration of justice, . . . 729
Resolve declaring that those who take office under the acts of parliament
ought to be held in detestation, ..... 730
" 11 — Letter to Gen. Gage, relative to the state of Boston, . . 731
Answer of Gen. Gage, Oct. 20, . . . . . ,731
Resolve advising the inhabitants to conduct peaceably towards the troops, 731
Resolves to be published, ....... 732
Resolve for preparing a memorial to the people, recommending united ob-
servation of the measures proposed by Congress, . . . 732
" 14 — Declaration of rights and statement of grievances, . . . 732
" 20 — Association and non-importation covenant, .... 735
1775,
May 11 — Resolutions of the Provincial Congress of Massachusetts, letters and ad-
dress, communicated, with the narrative and depositions relating to
the engagement between the troops and inhabitants, . . . 740
Depositions and address ordered to be printed, .... 741
Committee on the slate of Ameiica to consider the letter of the Provin-
cial Congress, ........ 741
June 2 — Doct. Benjamin Church, delegate from Massachusetts, confers with Con-
gress on the defence of the province, ..... 744
Letter from the Provincial Congress, asking explicit advice respecting
taking up and exercising the powers of civil government, . . 741
" 3— The letter referred to a committee, ..... 741
" 7 — Report of the committee laid on the table, . .... 741
" 9 — Resolve, reported by the committee, recommending to the Provincial Con-
gress to invite the people to choose representatives to a general as-
sembly, to exercise the powers of government, . , . 742
" 14 — Letter from New York respecting a vessel supposed to have provisions
for the army and navy at Boston, referred to a committee, . . 742
" 2?— Letter frora Massachusetts received, ..... 742
MISCELLANEOUS PAPERS.
Proclamation of Gov. Gage, prohibiting all persons from complying, in any de-
gree, with the resolves or recommendations of the Provincial Congress,
November 10, 1771, 743
Letter of the commiltee of New York to the Provincial Congress, transmitting ex-
tracts of letters from England, ...... 74'1
Extracts of letters from England, relating to the siluaiion of public affairs and the
condition of the colonies, ....... 744
Letter from Joseph Havvlcy to Thomas Cashing, relating to the powers of the com-
mittee of safely, and the necessary preparations for war. Feb. 22, 1775, 748
Letter from' the inhabitants of Montreal to the committee of safely, on the state of
Canada. April 28, 1775, 751
CONTENTS. lix
Lctlcr from Mrs. Elizabeth Bowcloiii to the committee of safely, givinj^ iiifurin.i-
lioii of ruvnges on ilie Klizal)clli Islands. June 4, 1775, . . . 7j3
Deposition of Klislia Nje, reiaiinf^ to tliu |)luiideriu<^ of one of the Elizabeth
Islands, by Capt. Linzey, ....... 753
Population of Mnssaciiusetls, 177G, ....... 755
Warlike stores in Massachusetts, i77-t, ...... 75G
Act of liie General Court confirming llie doings of each Provincial Congress, and
providing lliat the records might be given in evi<lence, and for their preser-
vation in the ollicc of tiic secretary of the colony, . . . 757
JOURNAL
OF THE
FIRST PROVINCIAL CONGRESS
OF
Convened at Salem, Friday, October 7, 1774. — Mjounml on the sam£ day.
Convened at Concord, Tuesday, October 11. — Adjourned Friday, October 14.
Convened at Cambridge, Monday, October 17.— Adjourned Saturday, October 29.
Convened at Cambridge, Wednesday, November 23. — Dissolved Saturday, Dec. 10.
FIRST MEETING OF THE MEMBERS
PROVINCIAL CONGRESS
On the first day of September, 1774, his excellency Thomas Gage,
governor of Massachusetts Bay, sent out precepts to the several towns
and districts of the province, commanding the inhabitants to return
representatives to the great and general court, ordered to be con-
vened at Salem, on the fifth day of October then next. Alarmed by
the preparations for resisting usurpations of chartered rights, by the
bold spirit of the county resolves, and the patriotic instructions of
the people to their delegates, it was determined by the royal council
to countermand the summons for the meeting of the assembly, and to
postpone its session. The following proclamation was issued, on the
twenty-eighth day of September, by Governor Gage, announcing his
view of the inexpediency of the meeting of the legislature at the time
appointed, discharging the members from attendance, and declaring
his intention not to be present at Salem.
Province of Massachusetts Bay.
By the Governor.
A PROCLAMATION.
Whereas, on the first day of September instant, I thought fit to is-
sue writs for calling a great and general court, or assembly, to be con-
vened and held at Salem, in the county of Essex, on the fifth day of
October next ; and whereas, from the many tumults and disorders
which have since taken place, the extraordinary resolves which have
been passed in many of the counties, the instructions given by the
town of Boston, and some other towns, to their representatives, and
4 FIRST PROVINCIAL CONGRESS. [Oct. 7,
the present disordered and unhappy state of the province, it appears to
me highly inexpedient that a great and general court should be con-
vened at the time aforesaid ; but that a session at some more distant
day will best tend to promote his majesty's service and the good of the
province ; I have, therefore, thought fit to declare my intention not to
meet the said general court, at Salem, on the said fifth day of October
next. And I do hereby excuse and discharge all such persons as have
been, or may be elected and deputed representatives to serve at the
same, from giving their attendance : any thing in the aforesaid writs
contained to the contrary notwithstanding : whereof all concerned are
to take notice and govern themselves accordingly.
And the sheriffs of the several counties, their under sheriffs, or
deputies, and the constables of the several towns within the same, are
commanded to cause this proclamation to be forthwith published and
posted within their precincts.
Given at Boston, the twenty-eighth day of September, 1774, in the
fourteenth year of the reign of our sovereign lord, George the third, by
the grace of God, of Great Britain, France and Ireland, king, defen-
der of the faith, &c.
THOMAS GAGE.
By His Excellency^ s command.
Thomas Flucker, Secretary.
God save the king.
Notwithstanding the executive prohibition, ninety^ of the representa-
tives elected in pursuance of the writs for calling the general assem-
bly, met at Salem, on Wednesday, October, 5, 1774. With cautious
courtesy they awaited during that day the attendance of the governor,
or other constitutional officer, to administer the usual oaths. When it
had become certain, by the lapse of time, that the presence of the
chief magistrate could no longer be expected, a convention was organ-
ized, on Thursday. The Hon. John Hancock was chosen chairman,
and Benjamin Lincoln, Esq., clerk. A committee was appointed to
consider the proclamation, and consult on the measures proper to be
adopted. Their report was presented on Friday, and the following
resolutions submitted, which were accepted, and afterwards published
in the newspapers of the time.
(1.) The number of thosrs in .itlenduncn is thiia stated by Gordon, flis^ori/ of the American Revolu-
tion, vol. 1, page 280 ; and in the Essex Oazelt.e, Massachusetts Spy, Boston Oaiette, Boston Eve-
ning Post, and <>thi!r cotemporary prints. Some liistorians liavo supposo<l tlio inemhors were 208
or 288 ; probably counting those who met at Concord, instead of those who assembled at Salem.
Many of the towns refused to obey the governor's precept, and declined electing representatives to
the general court, but sent delegates to the Provincial Congress.
1774] riRST PROVINCIAL CONGRESS.
Province of tick Massachusetts Bav.
Ill the Court House at Salem, October 7, 1774.
Wiir.KKAS, his excellency Thomas Gage, Esq., did issue writs bear-
ing date the first of September last, for the election of members to
serve as representatives in a great and general court, which he did
" think fit and appoint" to be convened and holden the fifth day of Oc-
tober instant, at the court house in this place : And whereas, a major-
ity of members duly elected in consequence of said writs, did attend
at said court house the time appointed, there to be qualified according
to charter for taking seats and acting as representatives in said great
and general court ; but were not met by the governor, or other consti-
tutional oflicer or ofiicers by him appointed for administering the usual
oaths, and qualifying them thereto : And whereas, a proclamation,
bearing date the 28th day of September last, and published in sundry
newspapers, with the signature of his excellency, contains many re-
flections on this province, as being in a tumultuous and disorderly
state ; and appears to have been considered by his excellency as a con-
stitutional discharge of all such persons as have been elected in con-
sequence of his excellency's said writs : The members aforesaid so
attending, having considered the measures which his excellency has
been pleased to take by his said proclamation, and finding them to be
unconstitutional, unjust, and disrespectful to the province, think it their
duty to pass the following resolves :
Therefore, Resolved, as the opinion of said members :
1st. That by the royal charter of the province, the governor, for
the time being, is expressly obliged to convene, " upon every last
Wednesday in the month of May, every year forever, and at such other
times as he shall think fit, and appoint a great and general court."
And, therefore, that as his excellency had thought fit, and by his writ
appointed a great and general court to be convened on the fifth day of
October instant, his conduct in preventing the same is against the ex-
press words, as well as true sense and meaning of the charter, and un-
constitutional ; more especially as, by charter, his excellency's power
" to adjourn, prorogue and dissolve all great and general courts," doth
not take place after said courts shall be appointed, until they have first
" met and convened."
2dly. That the constitutional government of the inhabitants of this
province, being, by a considerable military force at this time attempted
to be superseded and annulled : and the people, under the most alarm-
6 FIRST PROVINCIAL CONGRESS. [Oct. 7, 1774.
ing and just apprehensions of" slavery, having, in their laudable en-
deavors to preserve themselves therefrom, discovered, upon all occa-
sions, the greatest aversion to disorder and tumult, it must be evident
to all attending to his excellency's said proclamation, that his represen-
tations of the province as being in a tumultuous and disordered state,
are reflections the inhabitants have by no means merited ; and, there-
fore, that they are highly injurious and unkind.
3dly. That, as the pretended cause of his excellency's proclamation
for discharging the members elected by the province in pursuance of
his writs, has for a considerable time existed, his excellency's conduct
in choosing to issue said proclamation, (had it been in other respects
unexceptionable,) but a few days before the court was to have been
convened, and thereby unavoidably putting to unnecessary expense and
trouble a great majority of members from the extremities of the prov-
ince, is a measure by no means consistent with the dignity of the
province ; and, therefore, it ought to be considered as a disrespectful
treatment of the province, and as an opposition to that reconciliation
between Great Britain and the colonies so ardently wished for by all
the friends of both.
4thly. That some of the causes assigned as aforesaid for this uncon-
stitutional and wanton prevention of the general court, have, in all
good governments, been considered among the greatest reasons for
convening a parliament or assembly ; and, therefore, the proclamation
is considered as a further proof, not only of his excellency's disaffec-
tion towards the province, but of the necessity of its most vigorous
and immediate exertions for preserving the freedom and constitution
thereof.
Upon a motion made and seconded,
Voted, That the members aforesaid do now resolve themselves into
a Provincial Congress, to be joined by such other persons as have been
or shall be chosen for that purpose, to take into consideration the dan-
gerous and alarming situation of public affairs in this province, and to
consult and determine on such measures as they shall judge will tend
to promote the true interest of his majesty, and the peace, welfare and
prosperity of the province.
BENJAMIN LINCOLN, Clerk.
The subsequent proceedings of the Congress thus formed are de-
tailed in the following journal.
JOURNAL.
lI'MiNUTEs of the proceedings of a Provincial Congress of Deputies
of II the several towns and districts in the Province of the Massachusetts
Bay, in New England, convened at Salem, on Friday the seventh day
of October, A. D., 1774 j with a list of persons chosen to represent
them in the same.
iCOUNTY OF SUFFOLK.
Boston. — Hon. Thomas Gushing, Esq., Mr. Samuel Adams, Hon.
Jolm Hancock, Esq., Doct. Joseph Warren, Doct. Benjamin Church,
Mr. Nathaniel Appleton.
Roxhury. — Capt. William Heath, Mr. Aaron Davis.
Dorchester. — Capt. ipLemuelH Robinson.
Milton. — Capt. David Rawson, Mr. James Boice.
Braintree. — Ebenezer Thayer, Esq., Mr. Joseph Palmer, John Ad-
ams, Esq.
Weymouth. — Mr. Nathaniel Bailey.
Hingham. — Benjamin Lincoln, Esq.
Cohasset. — Mr. Isaac Lincoln.
Dedham. — Hon, Samuel Dexter, Esq., Mr. Abner Ellis.
Medfield. — Mr. Moses Bullen, Capt. Seth Clark.
Wrentham. — Mr. Jabez Fisher, Mr. Lemuel KoUock.
Brooklinc. — Capt. Benjamin White, William Thompson, Esq., Mr,
John Goddard,
Stoughton and ^Stoughtonham. — Mr. Thomas Crane, Mr. John With-
ington, Mr. Job Swift.
a ||At a Congress of Delegates from.|| b ||Samuel.||
(1.) The southern part of the county of Worcester and the whole of the county of Norfolk were
originally included within the territorial limits of Suffolk. The former was separated by the act
of incorporation, passed April 2, 1731. By the statute of .March 26, 1793, all the towns mentioned
in the text as belonging to the county of Suffolk, except Boston and Chelsea, were united to form
the county of Norfolk. This act was repealed June 20, 1793, so far as it related to Hingham and
Hull, which were anne.xed to the county of Plymouth, June 18, 1803.
(2.) The name of Stoughtonham was changed to Sharon, by the Legislature, Febiuary 25, 1783.
8 FIRST PROVINCIAL CONGRESS. [Oct. 7,
Walpole. — Mr. Enoch Ellis.
Medioay. — Capt. Jonathan Adams.
Needham. — Capt. Eleazer Kingsbury.
Bellingham. — Mr. Luke Holbrook.
Sm//.— [None.]
Chelsea. — Mr. Samuel Watts.
COUNTY OF ESSEX.
Salem. — Mr. John Pickering, Jun., Mr. Jonathan Ropes, Jun.
Danvers. — Doct. Samuel Holten.
Ipswich. — Capt. Michael Farley, Mr. Daniel Noyes.
Newbury. — Hon. Joseph Gerrish, Esq.
Neiohiiryport . — Capt. Jonathan Greenleaf.
Marhlehead. — Jeremiah Lee, Esq., Azor Orne, Esq., Mr. Elbridge
Gerry.
Lynn. — Ebenezer Burrill, Esq., Capt. John Mansfield.
Andover. — Mr. Moody Bridges.
Beverly. — Capt. Josiah Batchelder.
Roivley. — Mr. Nathaniel Mighill.
Salisbury. — Mr. Samuel Smith.
Haverhill. — Samuel White, Esq., Mr. Joseph Haynes.
Gloucester. — Capt. Peter Coffin.
Topsjield. — Capt. Samuel Smith.
Boxford. — Aaron Wood, Esq.
Amesbury. — Isaac Merrill, Esq.
Bradford. — Capt. Daniel Thurston.
Wenham. — Mr. Benjamin Fairfield.
Manchester. — Mr. Andrew Woodbury.
Metliuen. — Mr. James Ingles.
Middleton. — Capt. Archelaus Fuller.
COUNTY OF MIDDLESEX.
Cambridge. — Hon. John Winthrop, Esq., Capt. Thomas Gardner,
Mr. Abraham Watson, [Mr. Francis Dana.]
Charlestown. — Mr. Nathaniel Gorham, Mr. Richard Devens, Doct.
Isaac Foster, David Cheever, Esq.
Watertown. — Capt. Jonathan Brown, Mr, John Remington, Mr.
Samuel Fisk.
Woburn. — Mr. Samuel Wyman.
1774] FIRST PROVINCIAL CONGRESS. 9
Concord. — Capt. James Barrett, Mr. Samuel Whitney, Mr. Epliraim
Wood, Jim.
Newton. — Abraham Fuller, Esq., Mr. John Pigeon, Mr. Edward
Durant.
Ridding. — Mr. John Temple, Mr. Benjamin Brown.
Marlborough. — Mr. Peter Bent, Mr. Edward Barnes, Mr. George
Brigliam.
Dilliriia. — William Stickney, Esq., Mr. Ebenezer Bridge.
Framingham. — Joseph Haven, Esq., Mr. [William] Brown, Capt.
Josiah Stone.
Lexington. — Mr. Jonas Stone.
Chelmsford. — Mr. Simeon Spaulding, Mr. Jonathan Williams Aus-
tin, Mr. Samuel Perham.
Sherburne. — Capt. Samuel Bullard, Mr. Jonathan Leland.
Sudbury. — Mr. Thomas Plimpton, Capt. Richard Heard, Mr. James
Mosman.
Maiden. — Capt. Ebenezer Harnden, Capt. John Dexter.
Medford. — Mr. Benjamin Hall.
Weston. — Samuel P. Savage, Esq., Capt. Braddyl Smith, Mr. Josiah
Smith.
Hopkinton. — Capt. Thomas Mellen, Capt. Roger Dench, Mr. James
Mellen.
Waltham. — Mr. Jacob Bigelow.
Cfroton. — James Prescot, Esq.
Shirlei/. — Capt. Francis Harris.
Pepptrell. — Capt. William Prescot.
Stoin. — Henry Gardner, Esq.
Townshend. — Mr. Jonathan Stow, Capt. Daniel Taylor.
Ashby. — Mr. Jonathan Locke, Capt. [Samuel] Stone.
Stoneham. — Capt. Samuel Sprague.
Wilmington. — Mr. Timothy Walker.
Natick. — Mr. Hezekiah Broad.
Dracut. — Mr. William Hildreth.
Bedford. — Deac. Joseph Ballard, John Read, Esq.
HolUston. — Capt. Abner Perry.
Tewksbury. — Mr. Jonathan Brown.
Acton. — Mr. Josiah Hayward, Mr. Francis Faulkner, Mr. Ephraim
Hapgood.
Westford. — [Capt.] Joseph Reed, Mr. Zaccheus Wright.
Littleton. — Mr. Abel Jewett, Mr. Robert Harris.
Dunstable. — John Tyng, Esq., James Tyng, Esq.
3
10 FIRST PROVINCIAL CONGRESS. [Oct. 7,
Lincoln. — Capt. Eleazer Brooks, Mr. Samuel Farrar, Capt. Abijah
Pierce.
iCOUNTY OF HAMPSHIRE.
Springfield. — Doct. Charles Pynchon, Capt. George Pynchon, Mr.
Jonathan Hale, Jun.
Wilbraham. — Mr. John Bliss.
Ludlow. — Mr. Joseph Miller.
West Springfield. — Mr. Benjamin Ely, Doct. Chauncy Brewer.
Northampton. — Seth Pomeroy, Esq., Hon. Joseph Hawley, Esq.
Southampton. — Mr. Elias Lyman.
Hadley. — Mr. Josiah Pierce.
South Hadley. — Mr. Noah Goodman.
Amherst. — Mr. Nathaniel Dickerson, Jun.
Granhy. — Mr. Phineas Smith.
Hatfi.eld. — Mr. John Dickerson.
Whateley. — [Mr. Oliver Graves.]
Williamshurgh. — [None.]
Deerfield. — Mr. Samuel Barnard, Jun.
Greenfield. — Mr. Daniel Nash.
Shelburne. — Mr. John Taylor.
Conway. — Mr. Thomas French.
Westfield and Southioick. — Capt. John Mosely, Mr. Elisha Parks.
Sunderland. — Mr. Israel Hubbard.
Montague. — Deac. Moses Gunn.
Brhnfield. — Mr. Timothy Danielson.
South Brimfield. — Mr. Daniel Winchester.
(1) The county of Hampshire, as established May 7, 1662, comprehended the western towns of
Massachusetts. A small portion of the ancient county was separated when Worcester was estab-
lished, April 2, 1731. Another partition took place on the incorporation of Berkshire county, by
the act of the great and general court of the province, in May 1761. The old county of Hampshire
was subdivided by the statute of June 24, 1811, setting off the northern part into the county of
Franklin, which included Wliateley, Deerfield, Greenfield, Shelburne, Conway, Sunderland, Mon-
tague, Northfield, New Salem, Colrain, Warwick, Charlemont, Aahfield, Shutesbury, Leverett
and Bernardston, named in the text, and Buckland incorporated in 1779, Wendell incorporated in
1781, Orange incorporated in 1783, Rowe and Heath both incorporated in 1785, Hawley incorpora-
ted in 1792, Gill incorporated in 1793, and Leyden incorporated in 1809. The county of Hampden
was formed from the southern towns of Hampshire, by the statute passed February 25, 1812.
Within its boundaries were united, Springfield, Wilbraham, Ludlow, West Springfield, Westfield,
Southwick, Brimfield, South Brimfield, Monson, Granville, Murraysfield and Palmer, mentioned in
the text, with Blanford incorporated in 1741, Montgomery incorporated in 1792, Tolland incorporated
in 1796, and Holland incorporated in 1810. The name of Murraysfield was altered to Chester,
February 21, 1783: and that of South Brimfield changed to Wales, February 20, 1828. The other
towns and districts enumerated in the text, situated around the central part of the Old County, are
within the present county of Hampshire ; as are Pelhani incorporated April 21, 1742, and West-
hampton incorporated September 29, 1772, and omitted in the list of municipal corporations existing
in 1774.
1774] FIRST PROVINCIAL CONGRESS. U
Monson. — Mr. Abel Goodale.
Northjidd. — Mr. Phiiieas Wright.
Granville. — Timothy Robinson, Esq.
Nito Salem. — Mr. William Page, Jun.
Colrain. — Capt. Thomas McGee.
Belchertown. — Capt. Samuel Howe.
Ware. — Mr. Joseph Foster.
Murray afield. — [None.]
Warwick. — Capt. Samuel Williams.
Charlemont. — Mr. Hugh Maxwell.
Asfifield. — [None.]
Worthington. — Capt. Nahum Eager.
Greenwich. — Mr. John Rea.
Shuteshury. — [None.]
Chesterfield. — [None.]
Norwich. — Mr. Ebenezer Meacham.
^Edgecomb. — [None.]
Leverett. — [None.]
Palmer. — Mr. David Spear.
COUNTY OF PLYMOUTH.
Plymouth. — Hon. James Warren, Esq., Mr. Isaac Lothrop.
Scituatc. — Nathan Cushing, Esq., Mr. Gideon Vinal, Mr. Barnabas
Little.
Marshfield. — Mr. Nehemiah Thomas.
Middleborough. — Capt. Ebenezer Sprout.
Hanover. — Capt. Joseph Cushing.
Rochester. — Capt. Ebenezer White.
Plympton. — Mr. Samuel Lucas.
Pembroke. — Mr. John Turner, Capt. Seth Hatch.
Abington. — Capt. Woodbridge Brown, Doct. David Jones.
Bridgeioater. — Capt. Edward Mitchel, Doct. Richard Perkins.
Kingston. — John Thomas, Esq.
Duzbury. — Mr. George Partridge.
Halifax. — [None.]
Wareham. — [None.]
(1) Edgecomb was probably inadvertently placed among the towns of Hampshire, instead of those
of Lincoln county, in Maine.
12 FIRST PROVINCIAL CONGRESS. [Oct. 7,
^COUNTY OF BARNSTABLE.
Barnstable. — Daniel Davis, Esq.
Sandwich. — Mr. Stephen Nye.
Yarmouth. — Capt. Elisha Bassett.
Eastham and Welflect. — Mr. Naaman Holbrook.
Harwich. — Mr. Benjamin Freeman.
Falmouth. — Mr. Moses Swift.
Chatham. — Capt. Joseph Doane.
Truro. — Mr. Benjamin Atkins.
COUNTY OF BRISTOL.
Taunton. — Robert Treat Paine, Esq., Doct. David Cobb.
Rehoboth. — Capt. Thomas Carpenter, Timothy Walker, Esq.
Sivansey and '^Shawamet. — Col. [Andrew] Cole, Capt. Levi Whea-
ton, [Col. Jerathmiel Bowers.]
Dartmouth. — Benjamin Aikin, Esq.
Norton and Mansfield. — Mr. Eleazer Clap,
Attleborough. — Mr. Ebenezer Lane, Capt. John Daggett.
Dighton. — Elnathan Walker, Esq., Doct. William Baylies.
Freetown. — [None.]
Easton. — Mr. Eliphalet Leonard, Capt. Zephaniah Keith.
Raynham. — Mr. Benjamin King.
Berkley. — [None.]
COUNTY OF YORK.
Yorh. — Capt. Daniel Bragdon.
Kittery. — Charles Chauncey, Esq., Edward Cutt, Esq.
Wells. — Mr. Ebenezer Sayer.
Bertvick. — Capt. William Gerrish.
Biddeford. — Mr. [James] Sullivan.
^Pepperrellborough. — [None. ]
Lebanon. — [None.]
Sandford. — [None.]
Buxton. — [None.]4
(1) Provincctown, incorporated June 14, 1727, belonged to Barnstable county in 1774.
(2) That part of Swansey known as " the Shawamet purchase," became the town of Somerset
February 20, 1790.
(3) The name of Saco was adopted instead of Pepperrellborough, February 25, 1805.
(4) Another town had been established in York county, previous to the session of the Provincial
Congress, called Cape Porpoise in 1753, Arundel from June 5, 1718, and Kennebunk Port after 1820.
The northern part of the counties of York and Cumberland, uninhabited in 1774, was incorporated
as the county of Oxford, March 4, 1805.
1774] FIRST PROVINCIAL CONGRESS. 13
COUNTY OF DUKES.
EfJffnrfott. — [None]
Chilmark. — Joseph Mayhew, Esq.
Tisbury. — Mr. Ranford Smith.
COUNTY OF NANTUCKET.
^Shcrburn. — [None.]
COUNTY OF WORCESTER.
Worcester. — Mr. Joshua Bigelovv, Mr. Timothy Bigelow.
Lancaster. — Capt. Asa Whitcomb, Doct. William Dunsmore.
Mendon. — Joseph Dorr, Esq., Mr. Edward Rawson.
Brookficld. — Jedediah Foster, Esq., Capt. Jeduthan Baldwin, Capt.
Phinehas Upham.
Oxford. — Capt. Ebenezer Learned, Doct. Alexander Campbell.
Charlton. — Capt. Jonathan Tucker.
Sutton. — Capt. Henry King, Mr. Edward Putnam.
Leicester, Spencer and Paxton. — ^Col. Thomas Denny, Capt. Jo-
seph Henshaw.
Rutland. — Mr. Daniel Clap.
Rutland District.^ — Mr. John Mason.
(1) This town received the name of Nantucket June 8, 1795.
(2) Col. Denny was early compelled by fatal sickness to leave his seat in Congress, and return
to Leicester, where he died October 23, 1774, at the age of 49 years. The vacancy in the delega-
tion occasioned by his retirement was supplied by the election of Capt. Henshaw, October 20, 1774.
(3) Rutland District had been made a town in June, 1774. The act of incorporation, as it went
from the representative branch of the legislature, conferred municipal powers, but bestowed no
corporate name. When the parchment reached the council chamber, the blank was filled by the
executive, and the unwelcome designation of Hutchinson imposed on the patriotic citizens. The
measures taken to remedy such heavy civic calamity, are recited in the following remarkable pre-
amble of the statute, passed at the May session of the general court, in 1776, strongly expressing
the popular sentiment of the time: " Whereas, the inhabitants of the town of Hutchinson have,
by their petition, represented to this court, that in June, 1774, when the said town was incorpora-
ted. General Gage, then governor, gave it the name of Hutchinson, in honor to, and to perpetuate
the memory of Thomas Hutchinson, his immediate predecessor in the chair of government, whom
they justly style the well known enemy of the natural and stipulated rights of America ; that, at a
town meeting, notified for that purpose, they voted, unanimously, to petition, and accordingly have
petitioned the general court, that the name of the said town might be altered [to Wilkes,] and that
it might no longer bear the disgraceful name of Hutchinson : And, whereas, there is a moral fitness
that traitors and parricides, especially such as have remarkably distinguished themselves in that
odious character, and have long labored to deprive their native country of its most valuable rights
and privileges, and to destroy every constitutional guard against the evils of an all enslaving despot-
ism, should be held up to public view in their true characters, to be execrated by mankind, and
that there should remain no other memorials of them, than such as will transmit their names with
infamy to posterity : And, whereas, the said Thomas Hutchinson, contrary to every obligation of
duty and gratitude to this his native country which raised him from private life to the highest
and most lucrative offices in the government, has acted toward her the part of a traitor and parricide
as above described, which has been clearly manifested to the world by his letters lately published,
14 FIRST PROVINCIAL CONGRESS. [Oct. 7,
Oakham. — Mr. Jonathan Bullard.
Huhbardston. — Mr. John Clark.
Westborough. — Capt. Stephen Maynard, Doct. James Hawse.
Northborough. — Mr. Levi Brigham.
Shrewsbury. — Hon. Artemas Ward, Esq., Mr. Phineas Hayward.
Lunenburgh and Fitchburgh. — Capt. George |l'Kimball,|l Capt. Abi-
jah Stearns, Capt. David Goodridge.
Uxbridge. — Capt. Joseph Reed.
Harvard. — Mr. Joseph Wheeler.
Bolton. — Capt. Samuel Baker, Mr. Ephraim Fairbanks.
Petersham. — Capt. Ephraim Doolittle.
Southborough. — Capt. Jonathan Ward.
Hardwick. — Capt. Paul Mandell, Mr. Stephen Rice.
^Western. — Mr. Gershom Makepeace.
Sturbridge. — Capt. Timothy Parker,
Leominster. — Thomas Legate, Esq., Mr. Israel Nichols
Dudley. — Thomas Cheney, Esq.
Upton. — Mr. Abiel Sadler.
New Braintree. — Capt. James Wood.
Holden — Mr. John Child.
Douglass, — Mr. Samuel Jennison.
Grafton. — Capt. John Goulding.
Royalston. — Mr. Henry Bond.
Westminster. — Mr. Nathan Wood, Mr. Abner Holden.
Templeton. — Mr. Jonathan Baldvi^in.
Athol — Mr. William Bigelow.
Princeton. — Mr. Moses Gill, Capt. Benjamin Holden.
Ashburnham. — Mr. Jonathan Taylor.
Winchendon. — Mr. Moses Hale.
2 Woodstock. — [None.]
Northbridge. — Mr. Samuel Baldwin.
COUNTY OF CUMBERLAND.
Falmouth and Cape Elizabeth. — Enoch Freeman, Esq.
a ||Campbell.||
and by hia having thus acted, it has become fit and just that every honorable memorial of him should
be obliterated and cease :" Therefore, it was enacted, that the town of Hutchinson should no lon-
ger bear that name, but thenceforth should bo called Barro.
(1) The name of Western was altered to Warren, March 13, 1834.
(2) Woodstock is erroneously inserted in the text. The inhabitants of that town, settled in 1686,
long attached to Suffolk, afterwards connected with Worcester county, seceded from the jurisdic-
tion of Massachusetts, in 1747 ; in 1752 they were admitted to the privileges and protection of Connec-
ticut, and on the settlement of her boundary line, became, and have remained citizens of that state.
1774] FIRST PROVINCIAL CONGRESS. 15
Scarborough. — Mr. Saniuel March.
North Yarmouth. — Mr. Jolin Lewis.
(Jorham. — Solomon Lombard, Esq.
Brunswick aiid Harpswdl. — Mr. Samuel Thompsoa.
iCOUNTY OF LINCOLN.— [None.]
2COUNTY OF BERKSHIRE.
Sheffield, Great Barrington, Egremont and Alford. — John Fellows,
Esq., Doct William Whiting.
Storhbridge and West Stockbridge. — Mr. Thomas Williams.
Tyringham. — Capt. Giles Jackson.
Pitt afield. — John Brown, Esq.
Richmond. — [None.]
Lenox. — Mr. John Patterson.
Bccket. — Mr. Jonathan Wadsworth.
The Congress proceeded to the choice of a Chairman, when the
Hon. John Hancock, Esq., was elected.
Benjamin Lincoln, Esq. was chosen clerk.
Upon a motion, Voted, That the Congress be adjourned to the
||*court house in|| Concord, ||there to meet on Tuesday next, at ten
o'clock in the forenoon.^H
Tuesday, October 11, 1774, A. M.
The Congress met according to adjournment.
Upon amotion \\Resolved, That the Congress be adjourned to the
meeting house in Concord : Being met there, upon a motion || the
a ||Meetiiig liouse at.||
(1) This county, ostablished in 1760, extended at the period of the entries in the journal over the
vast territory of Maine, where the counties of Lincoln, Hancock, Waldo, Washington, Kennebeck,
Somerset and Penobscot have risen. The figures prefixed to the names of the towns existing in
1774, indicate the date of incorporation of each : 1716, Geo^geto^vn ; 1753, Newcastle ; 1759,
Woolwich; 1760, Pownalshorough, changed to Wiacassct, June 10, 1802; 17G2, Bowdoinham ; 1764,
Boothbay, Topshara ; 1765, Bristol ; 1771, Hallowell, Winthrop, Vassalborough, Winslow ; 1773,
Waldoborough, Belfast ; 1774, Edgecomb ; Gardnerstown received the name of Pittston, February
4, 1778.
(2) In Berkshire were the following towns, in addition to those enumerated in the text, incorpora-
ted prior to 1774, in the year annexed to each name ; Patridgefield, 1771, named Peru, June 19,
1806; New Marlborough, 1759; Lanesborough, 1765; Sandisfield, 1762; Williamstown, 1765;
Gageborough, 1771, called Winsor, 1778; Otis, 1773.
(3) Conventionsof delegates in the several counties had appointed the second Tuesday of October
and the town of Concord, as the time and place for the meeting of the Congress of the province,
long before writs were issued by the governor for convening the general court. The adjournment was
in conformity with the resolutions of the local assemblies.
" The meeting was first held in the old court house, but that being too small to convene so
large an assembly, it was adjourned to the meeting house. Two sessions, one at nine, and the
other at three o'clock, were held each day." Shalluck^s Concord, 91.
16 FIRST PROVINCIAL CONGRESS. [Oct. 11,
question was put, whether they would reconsider their vote relative to
the appointing a chairman, and then proceed to the choice of a presi-
dent, by written votes, and passed in the affirmative.
Upon a motion. Ordered, That Capt. Heath, Hon. Mr. Dexter, and
Hon. Col. Ward, be a committee to count and sort the votes for a
president.
The Congress proceeded to bring in their votes for a president, and
the committee having counted and sorted the same, reported that the
Hon. John Hancock, Esq., was chosen.
The Congress then appointed Benjamin Lincoln, Esq., secretary.
Upon a motion. Ordered, That Capt. Barrett, Doct. Warren, and
Hon. Col. Ward, be a committee to wait on the Rev. Mr. Emerson,
and desire his attendance on the Congress, that the business might be
opened with prayer.
The committee appointed to wait on the Rev. Mr. Emerson, report-
ed that they had attended [to] that service, and that the Rev. Mr. Emer-
son would soon attend on the Congress agreeable to their desire.
Adjourned to three o'clock this afternoon.
Three o'clock, P. M. — The Congress is further adjourned to half
after eight o'clock to-morrow morning.
Wednesday, October 12, 1774, A. M.
11*11 Upon amotion, Ordered, That Major Fuller, Col. Prescot, Doct.
Warren, and Doct. Holten, be appointed to return the Congress when
necessary, in order the more easily to ascertain a vote, and that they
observe the following divisions, viz : The wall pews on the right of the
desk for one division ; [those] on the left for another ; the men's seats
and the pews adjoining them, a third ; and the women's seats and the
pews adjoining them, the fourth.
Upon a motion, the question was put whether the several resolutions
entered into by the counties respectively, be now read, and passed in
the affirmative. They were read accordingly. ^
Resolved, That a doorkeeper be appointed.
Resolved, That Capt. Barrett be desired to appoint some suitable
person for a doorkeeper ; he appointed accordingly, Mr. Jeremiah Hunt
for that purpose.
Ordered, That the Hon. John Hancock, Esq., Hon. Joseph Hawley,
Esq., Doct. Warren, Hon. Samuel Dexter, Esq., Hon. Col. Ward, Hon.
a llCongrcss met agreeably to adjournment. ||
(1) The records of tlie county conventions so fur as they can bo recovered will be found in the Ap-
pendix.
1771 ] FIRST PROVTNCTAL CONGRESS. 17
Col. Warren, Capt. Heath, Col. Lee, Doct. Church, Doct. Holten, Mr.
Gerry, Col. Tyiur, Capt. Roberson, Major Foster, and Mr. Gorham, be
a committee to take into consideration the state of the province, and
report as soon as may be.
IIThen the Congress|| adjourncil to three o'clock this afternoon.
At'icrnooii.
Adjourned to nine o'clock to-morrow morning.
Thursday, October 13, 1774, A. M.
lI'llAdjourned to three o'clock this afternoon.
Afternoon,
The committee on the state of the province, reported the following
message to his excellency. The same was considered and accepted by
the Congress with one UMissentientH only, and the president was Unor-
dered || to attest the same.
Mai/ it please your Excellency :
The delegates from the several towns in the province of the Massa-
chusetts Bay, having convened in general Congress, beg leave to ad-
dress your excellency. The distressed and miserable state of the
province, occasioned by the intolerable grievances and oppressions to
which the people are subjected, and the danger and destruction to
which they are exposed, of which your excellency must be sensible,
and the want of a general assembly, have rendered it indispensably
necessary to collect the wisdom of the province by their delegates in
this Congress, to concert some adequate remedy for preventing impend-
ing ruin, and providing for the public safety.
It is with the utmost concern we see your hostile preparations, which
have spread such alarm throughout this province and the whole conti-
nent, as threatens to involve us in all the confusion and horrors of a
civil war ; and while we contemplate an event so deeply to be regretted
by every good man, it must occasion the surprise and astonishment of
all mankind, that such measures are pursued against a people whose
love of order, attachment to Britain, and loyalty to their prince, have
ever been truly exemplary. Your excellency must be sensible that the
sole end of government is the protection and security of the people.
Whenever, therefore, that power, which was originally instituted to ef-
fect these important and valuable purposes, is employed to harass, dis-
tress, or enslave the people, in this case it becomes a curse rather than
a blessing.
a||Con?rcs8 met agrfc:il>ly to iuljournMient.K h ||(liii3entienl voice. || c ||requested.||
18 FIRST PROVINCIAL CONGRESS. [Oct. 13,
The most painful apprehensions are excited in our minds by the
measures now pursuing. The rigorous execution of the Port Bill, with
["increased] severity, must eventually reduce the capital and its numer-
ous dependencies to a state of poverty and ruin. The acts for altering
the charter and the administration of justice in the colony, are mani-
festly designed to abridge this people of their rights, and to license
murders ; and, if carried into execution, will reduce them to a state of
slavery. The number of troops in the capital, increased by daily ac-
cessions drawn from the whole continent, together with the formidable
and hostile preparations which you are now making on Boston Neck,
in our opinion, greatly endanger the lives, liberties and properties, not
only of our brethren in the town of Boston, but of this province in gen-
eral. Permit us to ask your excellency, whether an inattentive and
unconcerned acquiescence [""in] such alarming, such menacing mea-
sures, would not evidence a state of insanity ; or, whether the delaying
to take every possible precaution for the security of the province, would
not be the most criminal neglect in a people heretofore rigidly and just-
ly tenacious of their yconstitutionalU rights?
Penetrated with the most poignant concern, and ardently solicitous
to preserve union and harmony between Great Britain and the Colo-
nies, so indispensably necessary to the well being of both, we entreat
your excellency to remove that brand of contention, the fortre.ss at the
entrance of Boston. We are much concerned that you should have
been induced to construct it, and thereby causelessly excite such a
spirit of resentment and indignation as now generally prevails.
We assure you, sir, that the good people of this colony never have
had the least intention to do any injury to his majesty's troops ; but, on
the contrary, most earnestly desire that every obstacle to treating them
as fellow-subjects may be immediately removed ; [''and we] are con-
strained to tell your excellency, that the minds of the people will never be
relieved till those hostile works are demolished ; and we request you,
as you regard his majesty's honor and interest, the dignity and happi-
ness of the empire, and the peace and welfare of this province, that
you immediately desist from the fortress now constructing at the south
entrance into the town of Boston, and restore the pass to its natural
state.
Upon a motion.
Ordered, That a fair copy of the foregoing report be taken and pre-
sented to his excellency Thomas Gage, Esq., and that a committee be
a [improved.] li [to] c ||con9titutcd.|| d [but.]
1774] FIRST PROVINCIAL CONGRESS. 19
appointed to wait iij)on him oarly to-morrow morning with the same.
Accordiiijrly, Col. Lee, Hon. Col. Ward, Col. Orne, Capt. Gardner,
Henry Gardner, Esq., Mr. Devens, Mr. Gorham, Capt. Brown, Col.
Pomeroy, Hon. Col. Prescot, Col. Thayer, Mr. Williams, Capt. Heath,
Capt. Ui)hani, Mr. Barnes, Capt. Doolittle, Mr. Lothrop, Major Thomp-
son, Mr. Palmer, Mr. Pickering, and Capt. Thompson, were appointed.
Resolved, That when this Congress shall adjourn over the sabbath,
that it be adjourned to the court house in Cambridge.
Then the Congress adjourned till to-morrow morning, nine o'clock.
Friday, October 14, 1774, A. M.
Resolved, That the message to his excellency be printed in the Bos-
ton newspapers.
Adjourned to three o'clock this afternoon.
Afternoon.
The committee on the state of the province reported the following
resolve, which was read, considered and accepted, and ordered that
it be printed in the Boston newspapers, and attested by the secretary.
Resolved, That the several constables and collectors of taxes through-
out the province, who have or shall have any moneys in their hands
collected on province assessments, be advised not to pay the same, or
any part thereof, to the Hon. Harrison Gray, Esq., but that such consta-
bles and collectors, as also such constables and collectors as have or shall
have any county moneys in their hands, take and observe such orders
and directions touching the same, as shall be given them by the sever-
al towns and districts by whom they were chosen. And that the sheriffs
and deputy sheriffs of the several counties in the province, who have
in their hands any province moneys, be also advised not to pay the
same to the said Harrison Gray, Esq., but that they retain the same in
their hands respectively, until the further advice of a Provincial Con-
gress, or order from a constitutional assembly of this province. And
that the present assessors of the several towns and districts in the pro-
vince, be advised to proceed to make assessments of the tax granted by
the great and general court of the province at their last May session,
and that such assessments be duly paid by the persons assessed, to such
person or persons as shall be ordered by the said towns and districts
respectively. And the Congress strongly recommend the payment of
the tax accordingly.
The Congress then adjourned to the court house in Cambridge, there
to meet on Monday next, at ten o'clock in the forenoon.
20 FIRST PROVINCIAL CONGRESS. [Oct. 17,
II Cambridge, II Monday, October 17, 1774, A. M.
The Congress met according to adjournment, and adjourned to the
meeting house in Cambridge.
Upon a motion,
Ordered, That Capt. Gardner, Mr Watson, and Mr. Cheever, be a
committee to wait on the Rev. Doct. Appleton, and desire that he
would attend the Congress and open the meeting with prayer.
The committee reported, that they had waited on the Rev. Doct.
Appleton, and delivered the message, and that he would wait on the
Congress immediately.
Upon a motion, the question was put, whether application be made
to the governor of the college, for leave for the Congress to sit in the
new chapel, and passed in the negative.
Resolved, That the seats now chosen by the members in Congress,
and those which may be chosen by them in future upon their first
coming into the same, be their seats during the session thereof.
Resolved, That the Congress be returned in divisions as agreed on
at Concord.
Mr. President informed the Congress that he had in his hand his
excellency's answer to our message to him of the thirteenth instant,
directed to Col. Lee, ||and others which he read and is as followeth:||
To Col. Lee, Hon. Col. Ward, Col. Orne, Capl. Gardner, Henry Gardner. Esq., Mr.
Devens, Mr. Gorham, Capt. Brown, Col. Pomeroy, Hon. Col. Prescot, Col. Thayer, Mr.
Williams, Capt. Heath, Capt. Upham, Mr. Barnes, Capt. Doolitlle, Mr. Lothrop, Major
Thompson, Mr. Palmer, Mr. Pickering, and Capt. Thompson, said to be a commitlee to
wail on his excellency with a message.
Gentlemen : The previous menaces daily thrown out, and the unu-
sual warlike preparations throughout the country, made it an act of
duty in me to pursue the measures I have taken in constructing what
you call a fortress, which, unless annoyed, will annoy nobody.
It is surely highly exasperating, as well as ungenerous, even to hint
that the lives, liberties, or properties of any persons, except avowed
enemies, are in danger from Britons; Britain can never harbor the
black design of wantonly destroying, or enslaving, any people on earth.
And notwithstanding the enmity shewn the king's troops, by withhold-
ing from them almost every necessary for their preservation, they have
not, as yet, discovered the resentment which might justly be expected to
arise from such hostile treatment.
No person can be more solicitous than myself to procure union and
1774] FIRST PROVINCIAL CONGRESS. 21
harmony between Great Bril.iin and licr colonios, and f ardently wish
to c«)ntril)ute to the coniplotion of a work so sahilaryto both countries.
But an 01)011 and avowed disobedience to all her authority, is oidy bid-
ding defiance to the mother country, and gives little hopes of bringing
a spirited nation to that favorable disposition, which a more decent and
dutifid conduct niight eH'ect.
Whilst you complain of acts of parliament that make alterations in
your charter, and put you in some degree on the same footing with
many other provinces, you will not forget that by your assembling,
you are yourselves subverting that charter, and now acting in ||direct||
violation of your own constitution.
It is my duty, therefore, however irregular your application is, to
warn you of the rock you are upon, and to require you to desist from
such illegal and unconstitutional proceedings.
THOMAS GAGE.
Province House, October 17, 1774.
Resolved, That his excellency's answer be committed to the commit-
tee on the state of the province.
Ordered, That the letters on his honor's table, said to be wrote by
the Rev. Mr. Peters, ^ be committed to the committee on the state of the
province.
Adjourned to three o'clock this afternoon.
(1) Rev. Sam\iel Peters, born at Ileliron, in Connecticut, December 12, 1735, of Yale College 1757,
took orders and assumed the charge of the churches of his native town and of Hartford in 1760.
He resided in Hebron until 1774. In that year, public indignation was strongly roused by communi-
cations to tlie royalist newspapers attributed to his pen. His house was often visited by commit-
tees from the patriotic inhabitants, his papers searched, and his person sometimes treated with
severity. The letters mentioned in the text were sent from Boston, where he had taken refuge, to
his friends and relatives : they were intercepted, and submitted to the Congress.
On the 28th of September, he writes to his mother : " I should be happy if my friends and rela-
tions at Hebron were provided for at these bad times when things are growing worse. Six regi-
ments are coming over from England and sundry men of war. So soon as they come HANGING
WORK will go on, and DESTRUCTION will attend first the sea port towns. The lintel sprinkled
on the sidepost will preserve the faithful."
In a letter to Dr. Auchmuty, at New York, dated at Boston, October 1, 1774, he writes :
" The riots and mobs that have attended me and my house, set on by the Governor of Connecticut,
have compelled me to take up my abode here ; and the clergy of Connecticut must fall a sacrifice
with the several churches, very soon, to the rage of the puritan mobility, if the old serpent, that
dragon, is not bound.". ..." Judge Auchmuty will do all that is reasonable for the neighboring
charter. Necessity calls for such friendship, as the head is sick and heart faint, and spiritual iniqui-
ty rides in high places, with halberts, pistols, and swords. See the proclamation I sent you by my
nephew, on their pious sabbath day, the 4th of last month, when the preachers and magistrates left
the pulpits, &c., for the gun and drum and set off for Boston, cursing the King and Lord North,
General Gage, the bishops and their cursed curates, and the church of England. And for my telling
the church people not to take up arms, &c., it being high treason, &c., the sons of liberty have
almost killed one of my church, tarred and feathered two, abused others, and on the Cth day de-
stroyed my windows, and rent my clothes, even my gown, &r., crying out, down with the church,
22 FIRST PROVINCIAL CONGRESS. [Oct. 18,
Afternoon.
Resolved, That in the absence of the president, the secretary have
power to adjourn the Congress.
Ordered, That the committee appointed to wait on the Rev. Doct.
Appleton this morning to desire his attendance on the Congress, and
[that he would] open the meeting with prayer, again wait on him, and
return him the thanks of this Congress for his attendance ||onl| and
prayer with them this morning ; and desire that he would officiate as
their chaplam during their session here.
Adj jurned till to-morrow morning, nine o'clock.
Tuesday, October 18, 1774, A. M.
W^'WOrdered, That the galleries be now cleared, and that the doors of
the house be kept shut, during the debates of the Congress, until the
further order thereof
Resolved, That a doorkeeper be appointed ; and that the members
of the town of Cambridge appoint some suitable person for that pur-
pose. Mr. 1 1 William II Darling was appointed accordingly.
Adjourned to three o'clock this afternoon.
Afternoon.
Moved, That the Congress now determine whether they will, or will
not, reply to his excellency's answer.
After some debate thereon, the question was put, whether the Con-
gress will make a reply to his excellency's answer, and it passed in the
affirmative.
llThen the Congress]] adjourned till to-morrow morning, ten o'clock.
Wednesday, October 19, 1774, A. M.
Ordered, That the doorkeeper see that the galleries be now cleared.
The committee on the state of the province reported a reply to his
excellency's message. The same was read and ordered to be recom-
mitted.
Ordered, That Capt. Heath, Major Fellows, Col. Thomas, Capt.
Gardner, and Col. Pomeroy, be a committee to make as minute an in-
quiry into the present state and operations of the army as may be, and
report.
a llCongrcss met purauiint to adjournment. ||
the rags of popery, &c. Their rebellion is obvious, and treason is common, and robbery is the daily
devotion. The Lord deliver us from anarchy. Tlio bounds of New York may directly extend to
Connecticut river ; Boston meet them ; New Hampshire, take the province of Maine ; and Rhode
Island be swallowed up as Uathan. Pray lose no time, nor fear worse times than attend us."
Mr. Peters went to England in the autumn of 1774 : published a history of Connecticut in 1781,
which has not been considered a work of good authority : returned to America in 1805 : went to
the falls of St. Anthony claiming a large territory under Carver, in 1817 and 1818: and died in Now
York, April 19, 1826, aged 90,
1774 ] FIRST PROVINCIAL CONGRESS. 23
ADciiiooii.
On/crfd, That no members be called out.
The committee on the state of tlie province reported an answer to
his excellency's message ; which, having been read and considered,
in ||*|)aragraphs, and .so passed|| was ordered to lie on the table.
Adjourned till to-morrow morning, nine o'clock.
Thursday, October 20, 1774, A. M.
The committee appointed to make intpiiry into the state and opera-
tions of the army reported. The report, after being read, was ordered
to lie on tiie table.
Aficrnoon.
Resolved, That a committee be appointed to consider what i.s neces-
sary to be now done for the defence and safety of the province.
Resolved, That the committee consist of thirteen, viz : two in the
county of Suffolk, and one in each other county [''which has] returned
members to this Congress.
Resolved, That each coun'v appoint its own member.
The members of the several counties retired, soon returned, and re-
ported that they had made choice of the following gentlemen respec-
tively, viz :
Suffolk. — Hon. Samuel Dexter, Esq., and Capt. Heath. Middlesex. —
Capt. Gardner. Essex. — Col. Orne. Hampshire. — Major Hawley.
Plymouth. — Col. Thomas. Barnstable. — Daniel Davis, Esq. Bris-
tol.— Col. Walker. York. — Edward Cutt, Esq. Dukes. — Mr. Smith.
Worcester. — Hon. Col. Ward. Cumberland. — Major Freeman. Berk-
shire.— Major Fellows.
Upon a motion. Ordered, That the gentlemen appointed by the sev-
eral counties re.spectively be a committee for the purpose aforesaid.
The committee on the state of the province reported a resolve rela-
tive to the payment and collecting of the outstanding rates and taxes ;
the same |pwas|| read, and ordered to be recommitted.
Upon a motion. Ordered, That the answer to his excellency's mes-
sage remain on the table.
Then adjourned till nine o'clock to-morrow morning.
Friday, October 21, 1774, A. M.
Ordered, That Mr. Gerry, Col. Warren, and Col. Lee, be a com-
mittee to report a letter to the selectmen, overseers of the poor, com-
mittee of correspondence, and committee of donations, for the town of
a llparngrnpli by paragraph. || 1> [who have] c ||t>eing.||
24 FIRST PROVINCIAL CONGRESS. [Oct. 21,
Boston, desiring their attendance at this Congress, to consult ||*means||
for the preservation of the town of Boston at this alarming crisis.
Upon a motion, the question was put, whether the Congress will now
assign a time when they will take into consideration the propriety of
recommending a day of public thanksgiving throughout this province,
and passed in the affirmative ; accordingly three o'clock this after-
noon was I [''assigned II for that purpose.
||Upon a motion the question was put, whether the Congress will
now assign a time when they will take into consideration the proprie-
ty of recommending a day of fasting and prayer throughout this pro-
vince, and it passed in the affirmative. Accordingly, four o'clock this
afternoon is assigned for that purpose. ||
Upon a motion, the question was put whether a time be now assign-
ed to take into consideration the propriety of appointing an agent or
agents, to repair to the government of Canada, in order to consult
with the inhabitants thereof, and settle a friendly correspondence and
agreement with them, and passed in the affirmative ; accordingly, five
o'clock this afternoon was appointed for that purpose.
The committee appointed to report a letter to the selectmen of the
town of Boston, and others, reported a letter accordingly, which was
read and accepted, and the president | ["ordered || to sign the same.
Ordered, That the gentlemen wrote to and expected from Boston,
[be requested to] bring with them six or eight of Rivington's late news-
papers.
The committee on the state of the province, reported several resolves
relative to the counsellors and others who have acted in obedience to
the late act of parliament for altering the civil constitution of this gov-
ernment, and are now in Boston. The same being read and consider-
ed, were ordered to be recommitted for amendments ; which were ac-
cordingly recommitted, amended, reported, accepted, and ordered to
be printed in all the Boston newspapers, and are as follow, viz :
Whereas, sundry persons now in Boston, have as mandamus coun-
sellors, or in other capacities, accepted or acted under commissions or
authority derived from the act of parliament passed last session, for
changing the form of government and violating the charter of this pro-
vince ; and by such disgraceful, such detestable conduct, have counter-
acted not only the sense of this province, but of the United American
Colonies, in Grand Congress expressed :
Therefore, Resolved, That the persons aforesaid who shall not give
a ||mfi!isiir(>s.|| l> Hiippointoil.H c ||re(tuost('il.||
1774] FIRST PROVINCIAL CONGRESS. 25
satisfaction to tliis injured province and continent, within ten days from
the |)ul)lic;ition of this resolve, l)y causing to he puhlished in all the
Boston newspapers, acknowledgments of their former misconduct, and
renunciations of the commissions and authority mentioned, ought to
be considered as infamous hetrayers of their country ; and that a com-
mittee of Concress be ordered to cause their names to be published
repeatedly, that the inhabitants of this province, by having them enter-
ed on the records of each town, as rebels against the state, may send
them down to posterity with the infamy they deserve ; and that other
parts of America may have an opportunity of stigmatizing them in
such way as shall etfectually answer a similar purpose.
Resolved, That it be and hereby is recommended to the good people
of this province, so far to forgive such of the obnoxious persons afore-
said, who shall have given the satisfaction required in the preceding
resolve, as not to molest them for their past misconduct.
Ordered, That Major Thompson, Mr Devens, and Mr. Watson, be
a committee to cause the names of sundry persons now in Boston, hav-
ing as mandamus counsellors, or in other capacities, accepted or acted
under commission or authority derived from the act of parliament passed
last session, for changing the form of government and violating the
charter of this province, to be published repeatedly, in case they shall
not, within ten days, give satisfaction to this injured province, by caus-
ing to be published in all the Boston newspapers, acknowledgments of
their misconduct, and renunciations of the commissions and authority
aforesaid.
Ordered, That Mr. Appleton, Mr. Gill, Mr. Pickering, Mr. Legate,
and Major Thompson, be a committee to report a non consumption
agreement relative to British and India goods.
Ordered, That Mr. Palmer, Capt. Doolittle, Capt. Greenleaf, Doct.
Foster, and Col. Danielson, be a committee to report a resolve recom-
mending the total disuse of India teas.
Then adjourned till three o'clock this afternoon.
Afternoon.
Mr. President informed the Congress that he had in his hands a
number of Rivington's newspapers ; Whereupon
Ordered, That Mr. Gerry, Capt. Farley, and Doct. Church, be a
committee to look over the same ; and if any thing therein should ap-
pear to have been written with a design to injure this province, that
they report it to the Congress.^
(1) Rivington's JVew York Oazaleer, or the Connecticut, Hudson's River, yew Jersey, and Que-
bec ly'ttlily .Advertiser, was publi.aliod in tlio city of Now York. It commencpd .\pri) 29, 1773 ;
26 FIRST PROVINCIAL CONGRESS. [Oct. 21,
Ordered, That Mr. Gill, Major Fuller, Col. Prescott, Mr. Hall, Mr.
Gardner of Stow, Mr. Davis, and Capt. Upham, be a committee to wait
on the gentlemen selectmen, and others, expected from Boston, and
conduct them to this body.
The gentlemen selectmen, overseers of the poor, committee of cor-
respondence, and committee of donations, being introduced, a free
conversation was had with them on means for preserving the town of
Boston at this alarming crisis.
The committee appointed to bring in a resolve recommending the
total disuse of India teas in this province, reported. The report was
read and accepted, and is as follows :
Whereas, the unnecessary and extravagant consumption of East
India teas in time past, has much contributed to the political destruc-
tion of this province ; and as tea has been the mean by which a cor-
rupt administration have attempted to tax, enslave, and ruin us : There-
fore,
Resolved, That this Congress do earnestly recommend to the people
of this province an abhorrence and detestation of all kinds of East
India teas, as the baneful vehicle of a corrupt and venal administration,
for the purpose of introducing despotism and slavery into this once
happy country ; and that every individual in this province ought totally
to disuse the same. And it is also recommended, that every town and
district, appoint a committee to post up in some public place the names
of all such in their respective towns and districts, who shall sell or
consume so extravagant and unnecessary an article of luxury.
The committee appointed to consider what is necessary to be done
for the defence and safety of this province, reported. The report was
read, and ordered that the consideration thereof be referred till to-mor-
row morning.
||The Congress then|| adjourned till to-morrow morning nine o'clock.
was devoted to the support of the principles of the British administration ; had extensive circula-
tion among the royalists of the principal towns of the colonies ; and received the patronage of gov-
ernment. It was continued until November 27, 1775, when a troop of armed men from Connecti-
cut surrounded the printing house, broke the press, destroyed the cases, scattered the forms, and
carried away a large quantity of type to melt into bullets.
James Rivington, the publisher, born in London, arrived in America in 1760, and commenced bu-
siness as a bookseller in Philadelphia. He pursued the same trade in Boston and in New York,
without success, and in 1773 became printer. After the disaster which terminated the existence of
the Gazateer, he procured new apparatus, was appointed the king's printer for New York, and re-
established his newspaper. His editorial labors ceased in 1783. He resumed tlie occupation of
bookseller, and died in July, 1802, aged seventy-eight years. — See Thomases History of Printing,
vol. II, pages 111, 312.
The newspapers exhibited to the Congress, had a decided tone of loyal sentiment, but contained
no reflections peculiarly injurious to the character or feelings of the people of the province.
1774.] FIRST PROVINCIAL CONGRESS. 27
Satukday, October 22, 1774, A. M.
The Congress resumed the consideration of the report of the com-
mittee appointed to consider what is necessary to be done for the de-
fence and safety of this province ; and ordered the same to be recom-
mitted for amendments.
Ordvnd, That the Hon. John Winthrop, Esq., Mr. Wheeler, and
Mr. Lombard, be a committee to bring in a resolve recommending to
the people of this province that they observe a day of public thanks-
giving throughout the same ; and that they sit immediately.
Resolved, That the consideration of the propriety of sending agents
to Canada be referred to the next meeting of this Congress.
Ordered, That Mr. Cushing, of Scituate, Capt. Doolittle, Mr. Wil-
liams, and Mr. Palmer, be joined to the committee appointed to pre-
pare a non-consumption agreement relative to British and India goods;
and that the committee sit forthwith.
Moved, That a committee be appointed to bring in a resolve relative
to the king's troops providing themselves with straw. After a long
debate had H'^upon the matter || the question was ordered to subside.
The committee appointed to bring in a resolve recommending to the
people of this province to observe a day of public thanksgiving through-
out the same, reported ; which report was read, amended, and accept-
ed, and is as followeth, viz :
From a consideration of the continuance of the gospel among us,
and the smiles of Divine Providence upon us with regard to the seasons
of the year, and the general health which has been enjoyed ; and in
particular, from a consideration of the union which so remarkably
prevails, not only in this province, but throughout the continent, at
this alarming crisis, it is resolved, as the sense of this Congress, that
it is higlily proper that a day of public thanksgiving should be observed
throughout this province ; and it is accordingly recommended to the
several religious assemblies in the province, that Thursday, the fifteenth
day of December next, be observed as a day of thanksgiving, to render
thanks to Almighty God for all the blessings we enjoy ; and, at the
same time, we think it incumbent on this people to humble themselves
before God, on account of their sins, for which he hath been pleased,
in his righteous judgment, to suffer so great a calamity to befall us as
the present controversy between Great Britain and the colonies ; as
also to implore the Divine blessing upon us, that, by the assistance of
his grace, we may be enabled to reform whatever is amiss among us ;
that so God may be pleased to continue to us the blessings we enjoy,
a ||thercon,||
28 FIRST PROVINCIAL CONGRESS. [Oct. 23,
and remove the tokens of his displeasure, by causing harmony and
union to be restored between Great Britain and these colonies, that we
may again rejoice in the smiles of our sovereign, and in possession of
those privileges which have been transmitted to us, and have the hope-
ful prospect that they shall be handed down ||entire|| to posterity under
the protestant succession in the illustrious house of Hanover.
Afternoon.
The report of the committee appointed to consider what is neces-
sary to be done for the defence and safety of the province, being
amended, was again read, and ordered to be recommitted for further
amendment ; and was committed accordingly.
Resolved, That the |j*resolvel| recommending that a day of thanks-
giving be observed throughout this province, be printed, and a copy
thereof sent to all the religious assemblies in this province; and that
the president sign the same.
Ordered, That Mr. Appleton, Doct. Foster, and Mr. Devens, be a
committee to agree with Messrs. Edes and Gill, to print the resolve
entered into by this Congress, recommending to the inhabitants of this
province to observe a day of public thanksgiving ; and that they send
a copy thereof to all the religious assemblies therein.
||Then the Congress adjourned till Monday next, [at] ten o'clock in
the forenoon.
Monday, October 24, 1774, A. M.
The report of the committee appointed to consider what is necessa-
ry to be done for the defence and safety of the province, being amend-
ed, was taken into consideration, and a long debate had thereon.
||The Congress] 1 adjourned till three o'clock, P. M.
Afternoon.
\\^\\Ordere.d, That Col. Lee, Mr. Palmer, Capt. Batchelder, Capt. Keith,
and Col. Orne, be a committee to consider of and report to this Con-
gress the most proper time for this province to provide a stock of pow-
der, ordnance, and ordnance stores ; and that they sit forthwith.
Orrfcrertfj^That the committee appointed to bring in a non consump-
tion agreement, ||°sit|l forthwith.
Resolved, That the debates had in Congress this afternoon, and that
all those which may be had l|therein|| in future, be kept secret by the
members thereof, until leave shall be had from the Congress to disclose
the same.
a ||orcier.|| b ||Congre3S met pursuant to adjournment. || c ||report.||
1774] FIRST PllOVINCIAL CONGRESS. 29
Ordirul, That Mr. Bliss wait upon the coiiiiuittee appointed to con-
sider ot" the nujst proper time tor this province to provide themselves
with powder, ordnance, d6c. He waited on the committee according-
ly, and reported that they would ||'be in|| Congress in a few minutes.
The committee came in accordingly, and reported, as their opinion,
that now was the proper time for the province to procure a stock of
powder, ordnance, and ordnance stores.
||Then|| Ordered, That Col. Lee, Mr. Palmer, Capt. Batchelder,
Capt. Keith, Col. Orne, Capt. Gardner, Capt. Heath, Col. Warren, and
Col. Pomeroy, be a committee to take into consideration and deter-
mine what number of ordnance, [and] what quantity of powder, and
ordnance stores will be now necessary for the province stock, and esti-
mate the expense thereof
The Congress resumed the consideration of the report of the com-
mittee appointed to consider what is necessary to be done for the de-
fence and safety of the province, and ordered it to be recommitted for
further amendments, and that Capt. Roberson, Major Foster, Capt.
Bragdon and Mr. Gerry, be added to the committee.
IIThen the Congress|| adjourned till nine o'clock to-morrow morning.
Tdesday, October 25, 1774, A M.
If'WOrderedfTha.t the committee appointed to report a non consump-
tion agreement, sit forthwith.
Mr. Wheeler brought into Congress a letter directed to Doct. Ap-
pleton, purporting the propriety, that while we are attempting to free
ourselves from our present embarrassments, and preserve ourselves
from slavery, that we also take into consideration the state and cir-
cumstances of the negro slaves in this province. The same was read,
and it was moved that a committee be appointed to take the same into
consideration. After some debate thereon, the question was put,
whether the matter now subside, and it passed in the affirmative.
Ordered, That Mr. Patterson, Mr. Devens and Doct. Holten be a
committee to inquire into the state of all the stores in the commissary
general's office.
Upon a motion, the question was put, whether a committee be ap-
pointed to take into consideration the propriety of having the dona-
tions which shall be made to the poor of the town of Boston, stored
in the country, and passed in the negative.
Resolved, That four o'clock this afternoon be assigned to take into
a llattt'iid on the.|| b ||CongreHS met agreeably to adjournment. ||
30 FIRST PROVtNCIAL CONGRESS. [Oct. 25,
consideration the state of the executive courts throughout this prov-
ince.
Ordered, That the committee appointed to inquire into the state of
all the stores in the commissary general's office, |psit|| forthwith.
Afternoon.
Ordered, That the doorkeeper be directed to call in the members.
The committee appointed to take into consideration what number
of ordnance, [and] what quantity of powder and ordnance stores are
now necessary for the province stock, and estimate the expense there-
of, reported. The report was read, considered and accepted ; which
is as folio weth :
The committee appointed to take into consideration and determine
what number of ordnance, [and what] quantity of powder and ordnance
stores will be necessary for the province stock at this time, and estimate
the expense, beg leave to report the following schedule of articles as ne-
cessary to be procured at this time, in addition to what we are already
possessed of, with the estimate of expenses attendant, amounting in the
whole to ten thousand seven hundred and thirty-seven pounds, viz :
16 field pieces, 3 pounders, with carriages, irons, &c.
wheels for ditto, irons, sponges, ladles, &c., a =£30,
4 ditto, 6 pounders, with ditto, a <£38,
Carriages, irons, &c., for 12 battering cannon, a £'iQ
4 mortars, and appurtenances, viz : 2 8-inch and 2 13-
inch, a £20,
20 tons grape and round shot, from 3 to 24 lb., a £15
10 tons bomb-shells, a £20, ....
5 tons lead balls, a £33, .....
1,000 barrels of powder, a £8,
Contingent charges,
£480 0 0
152 0 0
360 0 0
80 0 0
300 0 0
200 0 0
165 0 0
8,000 0 0
1.000 0 0
£10,737 0 0
In addition to the above estimate,
Ordered,Th^i there be procured 5,000 arms and bayo-
nets, « £2, 10,000 0 0
And 75,000 flints, 100 0 0
1 1 In the whole] I .... £20,837 0 0
Ordered, That all the matters which shall come under consideration
before this Congress, be kept secret, and that they be not disclosed to
any but the members thereof, until the further order of this body.
a ||report.||
1774] FIRST PROVINCIAL CONGRESS. 31
The committee appointed to consider what is necessary to be done
for the defoiico and safety of the government, reported. The report
was read.
||Then the Congress|| adjourned till eight o'clock to-morrow morn-
ing.
Wednesday, October 26, 1774, A. M.
Il'll The Congress resumed the consideration of the report of the
committee appointed to consider what is necessary to be done for the
defence and safety of the province, and ordered that it be read and
considered ||^in|| paragraphs.
||Then|| adjourned to three o'clock this afternoon.
Afternoon.
Ordered, That the doorkeeper be directed to call in the members.
The Congress then resumed the consideration of the above report,
relative to what is necessary to be done for the defence and safety of
the province, and ordered that it be recommitted for amendments;
which was amended, read and accepted, almost unanimously, and is as
followeth, viz :
Whereas, in consequence of the present unhappy disputes between
Great Britain and the colonies, a formidable body of troops, with war-
like preparations of every sort, are already arrived at, and others des-
tined for the metropolis of this province; and the e.xpress design of
their being sent, is to execute acts of the British parliament utterly
subversive of the constitution of the province : and whereas, his ex-
cellency General Gage has attempted, by his troops, to disperse the in-
habitants of Salem, whilst assembled to consult measures for preserv-
ing their freedom, and to subjugate the province to arbitrary govern-
ment ; and proceeding to still more unjustifiable and alarming lengths,
has fortified against the country the capital of the province, and thus
greatly endangered the lives, liberties and properties of its oppressed
citizens; invaded private property, by unlawfully seizing and retaining
large quantities of ammunition in the arsenal at Boston, and sundry
pieces of ordnance ||in the same town; committed to the custody of
his troops, the arms, ammunition, ordnance, || and warlike stores of all
sorts, provided at the public expense for the use of the province; and
by all possible means endeavored to place the province entirely in a de-
fenceless state ; at the same time having neglected and altogether disre-
garded the assurances from this Congress of the pacific disposition of the
inhabitants of the province, and entreaties that he would cease from
n ||Congre9s met purnuiint to adjournment. || b ||liy.||
32 FIRST PROVINCIAL CONGRESS. [Oct. 26,
measures which tended to prevent a restoration of harmony between
Great Britain and the colonies :
Wherefore, it is the opinion of this Congress, that notwithstanding
nothing but slavery ought more to be deprecated than hostilities with
Great Britain ; notwithstanding the province has not the most distant
design of attacking, annoying or molesting his majesty's troops afore-
said ; but, on the other hand, will consider and treat every attempt of
the kind, as well as all measures tending to prevent a reconci-
liation between ||^Britain|| and the colonies, as the highest degree of
enmity to the province ; nevertheless, there is great reason, from the
consideration aforesaid, to be apprehensive of the most fatal conse-
quences, and that the province may be in some degree provided against
the same ; and under full persuasion that the measures expressed in
the following resolves are perfectly consistent with such resolves of the
Continental Congress as have been communicated to us.
Resolved, That
be a committee of safety, to continue in office until the further order
of this or some other Congress or house of representatives of the
province ; whose business it shall be, most carefully and diligently to
inspect and observe all and every such person and persons as shall, at
any time, attempt or enterprise the destruction, invasion, detriment or
annoyance of this province, &lc. ; which said committee, or any five
of them, (provided always, that not more than one of the said five
shall be an inhabitant of the town of Boston,) shall have power, and
they are hereby directed, whenever they shall judge it necessary for
the safety and defence of the inhabitants of this province, and their
property, against such person or persons as aforesaid, to alarm, muster
and cause to be assembled, with the utmost expedition, and completely
armed, accoutred, and supplied with provisions sufficient for their sup-
port in their march to the place of rendezvous, such and so many of
the militia of this province, as they shall judge necessary for the ends
aforesaid, and at such place or places as they shall judge proper, and
them to discharge as soon as the safety of the province shall permit.
And this body do most earnestly recommend to all the officers and sol-
diers of the militia in this province, who shall, from time to time, dur-
ing the commission of the said committee, receive any call or order
from the said committee, to pay the strictest obedience thereto, as they
regard the liberties and lives of themselves and the people of this
province.
!i lltJrpat Britain. 11
1774] FIRST PROVINCIAL CONGRESS. 33
Also, lifsolrcd, That
or the major |)art of them, he a committee, in case of any such muster
and assemhling of the militia as aforesaid, to make such provision as
shall he necessary for their recejjtion and support, until they shall he
discharged hy order of the said committee of safety ; and also suffi-
cient provisions to support them in their return to their respective
homes; and shall also, without delay, purchase and provide, upon the
credit of the moneys already granted by the province, not paid into the
treasury, so many pieces of cannon and carriages for the same, small
arms, such quantities of ammunition [and] ordnance stores as they
shall judge necessary, not exceeding the value of twenty thousand
eight hundred and thirty-seven pounds, to be deposited in such secure
places as the said committee of safety shall direct.
Also, Resolved, That
be and they hereby are appointed officers to command, lead and con-
duct such of the militia as shall be mustered and assembled by order
of the said committee of safety, in manner and for the purposes afore-
said, so long as they shall be retained by the said committee of safety,
and no longer, who shall, while in the said service, command in the
order in which they are above named.
Also, Resolved, That all the said officers and soldiers who may be
mustered and retained in service by the above said committee of safe-
ty, for the purposes aforesaid, shall be entitled to such an allowance
from this province, as shall be adequate to their services from the time
that they shall march from their respective places of abode, until they
shall be discharged from the said service, and reasonable time for their
return home.
Also, Resolved, That it be recommended to the several companies
of militia in this province, who have not already chosen and appointed
officers, that they meet forthwith and elect officers to command their
respective companies ; and that the officers so chosen assemble as soon
as may be ; and where the said officers shall judge the limits of the
present regiments too extensive, that they divide them, and settle and
determine their limits, and proceed to elect field officers to command
the respective regiments so formed ; and that the field officers so elect-
ed, forthwith endeavor to enlist one quarter, at the least, of the number
of the respective companies, and form them into companies of fifty pri-
vates, at the least, who shall equip and hold themselves in readiness, on
the shortest notice from the said committee of safety, to march to the
olace of rendezvous ; and that each and every company so formed
vnoose a captain and two lieutenants to command them on any such
5
34 FIRST PROVINCIAL CONGRESS [Oct. 27,
emergent and necessary service as they may be called to by the com-
mittee of safety aforesaid ; and that the said captains and subalterns
so elected, form the said companies into battalions, to consist of nine
companies each ; and that the said captains and subalterns of each
battalion so formed, proceed to elect field officers to command the
same. And this Congress doth most earnestly recommend that all the
aforesaid elections be proceeded in and made with due deliberation
and I ["generous II regard for the public service.
Also, Resolved, That, as the security of the lives, liberties, and
properties of the inhabitants of this province, depends, under Provi-
dence, on their knowledge and skill in the art military, and in their
being properly and effectually armed and equipped, it is therefore re-
commended, that they immediately provide themselves therewith ; that
they use their utmost diligence to perfect themselves in military skill ;
and that, if any of the inhabitants are not provided with arms and am-
munition according to law, and that, if any town or district within the
province, is not provided with the full town stock of arms and ammu-
nition, according to law, that the selectmen of such town or district
take effectual care, without delay, to provide the same.
Resolved, That the blanks in the foregoing report be filled up to-
morrow morning, at ten o'clock ; and that the committees and officers
therein recommended be chosen by ballot.
Resolved, That a committee be appointed to prepare, in the recess
of this Congress, a well digested plan for the regulating and disciplin-
ing the militia, placing them in every respect on such a permanent
footing as shall render them effectual for the preservation and defence
of the good people of this province.
Ordered, That Capt. Heath, Capt. Gardner, Mr. Bigelow, Col. Orne,
and Col. Thayer, be a committee to take into consideration what exer-
cise will be best for the people of this province at this time to adopt,
and report [thereon.]
Adjourned to nine o'clock to-morrow morning.
Thursday, October 27, 1774, A. M.
The order of the day was moved for.
\\Ordered, That the doorkeeper be directed to call in the members. |1
Ordered, That Col. Warren, Doct. Holten, and Col. Lee, be a com-
mittee to count and sort the votes for the committees and officers this
day to be elected.
a ||patriotic.||
1774.] FIRST PROVINCIAL CONGRESS. 36
Resolved, That the Congres.s will proceed to the choice of the com-
mittee of safety, which is to consist of nine members, viz : three in
the town of Boston, and six in the country, in the manner following,
viz : they will give their votes first, for the three members of the town
of Boston, and then for the six in the country.
The Congress accordingly proceeded to bring in their votes for the
three members of the town of Boston, and the committee appointed to
count and sort the votes, reported, that the following gentlemen were
chosen, viz : Hon. John Hancock, Esq., Doct. Warren, and Doct.
Church.
The Congress then proceeded to bring in their votes for six gentle-
men of the country ; after sorting and counting the same, the commit-
tee reported, that the following were chosen, viz : Mr. Devens, Capt.
White of Brookline, Mr. Palmer, Norton Quincy, Esq., Mr. Watson,
and Col. Orne.
Afternoon.
The Congress then proceeded to bring in their votes for five com-
missaries ; and the committee having sorted and counted the votes, re-
ported that the following gentlemen were chosen, viz : Mr. Cheever,
Mr. Gill, Col. Lee, Mr. Greenleaf, Col. Warren.
Upon a motion made by Col. Warren, that he might be excused from
serving on the committee for supplies, and having offered his reasons
therefor, the question was put, whether he be excused from serving on
said committee, and passed in the affirmative.
The Congress then proceeded to bring in their votes for a person to
serve in the place of Col. Warren, who hath been excused, and after
sorting and counting the same, they reported that Col. Lincoln was
chosen.
It was then moved, that the Congress proceed to the choice of three
general officers ; and. Resolved, That they would first make choice of
the gentleman who should have the chief command ; and the committee
having sorted and counted the votes, reported that the Hon. Jedediah
Preble, Esq., was chosen.
The Congress then proceeded to bring in their votes for the second
in command, and the committee having sorted and counted the votes,
reported that the Hon. Artemas Ward, Esq., was chosen.
The Congress then proceeded to bring in their votes for the third in
command, and the committee having sorted and counted the votes, re-
ported that Col. Pomeroy was chosen.
The Congress then proceeded to bring in their votes for a commit-
tee to sit in the recess of this Congress, agreeable to the resolve of
36 FIRST PROVINCIAL CONGRESS. [Oct. 27,
yesterday, and the committee having sorted and counted the votes, re-
ported that the following gentlemen were chosen, viz ;
The Hon. Joseph Hawley, Esq., Hon. John Hancock, Esq., Hon.
Samuel Dexter, Esq., Mr. l|Elbridge|| Gerry, Capt. Heath, Major Fos-
ter, Hon. James Warren, Esq.
Resolved, That to-morrow morning, nine o'clock, the Congress will
take into consideration the propriety of appointing a receiver general.
Ordered, That the members be enjoined to attend, and that they do
not absent themselves for any cause saving that of absolute necessity.
Resolved, That the replication to his excellency's answer, which was
ordered to lie on the table for the members to revise, be now taken up
and recommitted for some amendments.
Upon a motion, the question was put, whether the Hon. Samuel Dan-
forth, Esq.,1 be desired to attend this Congress upon the adjournment,
and passed in the negative.
Upon a motion, the question was put, severally, whether the Hon.
James Pitts, Esq., Hon. Artemas Ward, Esq., Hon. Benjamin Green-
(1) Twenty-eight counsellors had been chosen, May 25, 1774, at the annual meeting of the general
court, agreeably to the provisions of the charter of William and Mary:
For the territory formerly the colony of Massachusetts Bay, eighteen : Samuel Danforth, John
Erving, James Bowdoin, James Pitts, Samuel Dexter, Artemas Ward, Benjamin Greenleaf, Caleb
Gushing, Samuel Phillips, John Winlhrop, Timothy Danielsun, Benjamin Austin, Richard Derby,
Jun., William Phillips, Michael Farley, James Prescot, John Adams, J^Tor ton Quincy :
For the territory formerly the colony of New Plymouth, four : James Otis, William Seaver, Wal-
ter Spooner, Jcralhmiel Bowers.
For the territory formerly the province of Maine, extending from Piscataqua fo Kennebeck, three :
Jeremiah Powell, Jedediah Preble, Knock Freeman:
For Sagadahock, including that part of (he present state of Maine between Kennebeck and New
Brunswick, one : Benjamin Chadburn :
For the province at large, two : George Leonard, Jun., Jedediah Foster.
When the list was presented to the governor for his approbation. Gen. Gage exercised the prero-
gative of negative reserved by the charter, and rejected thirteen of the counsellors elect. The
names of the gentlemen distinguished by executive disapprobation are printed above in italics.
By the act of Parliament " for the better regulating the government of the province of the Massa-
chusetts Bay," great alterations were made in the charter. The number of counsellors was increas-
ed to thirty-six : the right of choosing these officers was taken away from the representatives of
the people, and the power of selection vested in the crown, after the first day of August, 1774. The
gentlemen named below were appointed by the king to be counsellors by writ of mandamus :
Thomas Oliver, Thomas Flucker, Peter Oliver, Foster Hutchinson, Thomas Hutchinson, Jun.,
Harrison Oray, Samuel Danforth, John Erving, James Russell, Timothy Rugvles, Joseph Lee,
Isaac Winslow, Israel Williams, George Watson, JSfathaniel Ray Thomas, Timothy Woodbridge,
William Vassall, William firow)n, Joseph Green, James Boutincau, Andrew Oliver, Josiah Edson,
Richard Lechmere, Joshua Loring, John Worthington, Timothy Paine, William Pepperrcll, Jere-
miah Powell, Jonathan Simpson, John Jlurray, Daniel Leonard, Thomas Palmer, Isaac Royall,
Robert Hooper, Abijah Willard, John Erving, Jun.
The people assembled in large bodies and compelled many of the mandamus counsellors to resign
the obnoxious office. The names of those who resisted popular sentiment, by accepting and retain-
ing the appointment, are in italics in the list above.
The Hon. Samuel Danforth had been sworn, although he publicly declared his determination not
to act under his commission.
1774.] FIRST PROVINCIAL CONGRESS. 37
leaf, E.sq., Hon. Caleb Cushinjf, Es(|., IIoii. Samuel Phillips, Esq., Hon.
Richard Derby, Esq., Hon. James Otis, Esq., Hon. William Seaver,
Esq., Hon. Walter Spooner, Esq., Hon. Benjamin Chadburn, Esq.,
Hon. Jedediah Preble, Esq., and the Hon. George Leonard, Esq., be
desired to attend this Congress at the next meeting upon the adjourn-
ment, and passed in the affirmative.
The question was then put, whether the Hon. John Erving, Esq.,
and the Hon. Jeremiah Powell, Esq., be desired also to attend this
Congress, upon its being evident that they had not accepted, and upon
their having given full assurances that they would not accept, of their
commissions as mandamus coun.selIors, and it passed in the affirmative.
Ordered, That Mr. Cashing, Col. Prescot, and Capt. Greenleaf, be
a committee to bring in a resolve inviting the counsellors aforesaid to
attend accordingly.] I"] |
Friday, October 28, 1774, A. M.
The order of the day was moved for.
Resolved, That the Congress now proceed to the choice of a receiver
general.
Ordered, That Col. Warren, Doct. Holten, and Col. Lee, be a com-
mittee to count and sort the votes for a receiver general.
The Congress then proceeded to bring in their votes for a receiver
general ; the committee having counted and sorted the same, reported
that the Hon. Samuel Dexter, Esq., was chosen. But upon a motion
by him made, that he might be excused from serving in that office, and
having offered his reasons for his motion, the question was put, whether
he be excused accordingly, and it passed in the affirmative.
Resolved, That the choice of a receiver general be put off till three
o'clock this afternoon.
The committee on the state of the province reported a resolve, rela-
tive to the removal of the inhabitants of the town of Boston from
thence, which was read.
Afternoon.
Upon a motion made by Mr. Greenleaf, one of the committee for
providing stores, that he might be excused from serving in that office,
and having offered his reasons for his motion, the question was put,
whether he be excused accordingly, and it passed in the affirmative.
The Congress resumed the consideration of the report of the com-
mittee recommending the removal of the inhabitants of the town of
Boston from thence. Ordered to be recommitted and that the com-
mittee sit forthwith.
n ||Adjonrn(>H till tn-morrnw mornin?. nine oVlook.||
38 FIRST PROVINCIAL CONGRESS. [Oct. 28,
Resolved, That the Congress now proceed to the choice of a receiver
general. The votes being carried in, and the committee having sorted
and counted the same, reported that Henry Gardner, Esq., was chosen.
Resolved, That the Congress now proceed, according to their order
in the forenoon, to bring in their votes for the choice of a person to
fill up the committee for providing stores, in the place of Mr. Green-
leaf, who was excused. The committee having counted and sorted the
same, reported that Mr. Benjamin Hall was chosen.
The committee on the state of the province reported a resolve rela-
tive to the collecting and paying the outstanding taxes, which was read
and accepted ; but, upon a motion, the above vote was reconsidered,
and the report was committed to Major Hawley, Mr. Gerry, and Major
Foster, for amendments, which H^beingH done, was again considered
and accepted, and is as followeth, viz :
Whereas, the moneys heretofore granted and ordered to be assessed
by the general court of this province, and not paid into the province
treasury, will be immediately wanted to supply the unexpected and
pressing |l''exigencies|l of this province, in its present distressed cir-
cumstances, and it having been recommended by this Congress that
the same should not be paid to the Hon. Harrison Gray, Esq., for rea-
sons most obvious ; Therefore,
Resolved, That Henry Gardner, Esq., be, and he hereby is, appointed
receiver general until the further order of this or some other Congress,
or house of representatives of this province, whose business it shall be
to receive all such moneys as shall be offered to be paid into his hands
to the use of the province by the several constables, collectors, or other
persons, by order of the several towns or districts, and to give his re-
ceipts for the same ; and the same moneys to pay out to the committee
of supplies, or a major part of them, already appointed by this Con-
gress, or the order of said committee, or the major part of them, for
the payment of such disbursements as they shall find to be necessary
for the immediate defence of the inhabitants of this province. And it
is hereby recommended to the several towns and districts within this
province, that they immediately call town and district meetings, and
give directions to all constables, collectors, and other persons who may
have any part of the province H'taxesH of such towns or districts in
their respective hands or possession, in consequence of any late order
and directions of any towns or districts, that he or they immediately
pay the same to the said Henry Gardner, Esq., for the purpose afore-
said.
u ||\vn'<.|l 1) ||flpnKinils.|| r limonoy collcctpd by taxPB.||
1774] FIRST PROVINCIAL CONGRESS. 39
And it is also rc'coinineiided, that the several towns and districts in
said directions, siirriify and expressly engage, to such constahles, collec-
tors, or other i)ersons, who siiall have their said moneys in their hands,
tliat their paying the same in maimer as aforesaid, and producing a re-
ceipt therefor, sliall ever hereafter operate as an effectual discharge to
such persons for the same. And it is hcrchy recommended, that the
like order he ohserved respecting the tax ordered by the great and
general court at their last May session.
And it is hereby further recommended, to all sheriffs who may have
in their hands any moneys belonging to the j)rovince, that they inune-
diately pay the same to the said receiver general, for the purposes
aforesaid, taking his receipt therefor.
And the said Henry Gardner, Esq., the receiver general, shall be
accountable to this or some other Congress or house of representa-
tives of this province, for whatever he shall do touching the premises.
And to the end that all the moneys heretofore assessed in pursuance of
any former grants and orders of the great and general court or assem-
bly of this province, and hitherto uncollected by the several constables
and collectors, to whom the several lists of assessments thereof were
committed, may be effectually levied and collected, and also to the
end, that all the moneys granted, and ordered to be assessed by the
general court at their session in May last, which have been assessed, or
which may be assessed, may be also speedily and punctually collected,
it is earnestly recommended by this body, to the several constables and
collectors respectively, who have such assessments in their hands, or to
whom any assessments yet to be made, may be committed by the as-
sessors of any towns or districts, that in the levying and collectincr the
respective part or proportion of the total of such assessments, therein
set down to the several persons named therein, they should act and
proceed in the same ||way and|| manner as is expressed and prescribed
in the form of a warrant given and contained in an act or law of this
province, entitled " an act prescribing the form of a warrant for col-
lecting of town assessments," &.c. And it is also hereby strono-ly re-
commended to all the inhabitants of the several towns and districts in this
province, that they, without fail, do afford to their respective consta-
bles and collectors all that aid and assistance which shall be necessary
to enable them in that manner to levy the contents of such assessments,
and that they do oblige and compel the said constables and collectors
to comply with and execute the directions of this resolve, inasmuch as
the present most alarming situation and circumstances of this province
do make it absolutely necessary for the safety thereof
40 FIRST PROVINCIAL CONGRESS. [Oct. 28,
Ordered, That Mr. Appleton, Mr. Cushiug, and Mr. Palmer be a
committee to bring in a resolve relative to a non consumption agree-
ment.
Ordered, That Major Hawley, Mr. Gushing, and Mr. Gerry, be a
committee to prepare and bring in a resolve relative to an equal repre-
sentation of the province in Congress at the next meeting thereof.
The committee appointed to bring in a resolve inviting the constitu-
tional counsellors of this province to attend this Congress at the next
meeting thereof upon adjournment, reported ; which report was read
and accepted, and is as fojloweth, viz :
Resolved, That the Hon. John Erving, Esq., Hon. l|*James|| Pitts,
Esq., Hon. Artemas Ward, Esq., Hon. Benjamin Greenleaf, Esq.,
Hon. Caleb Cushing, Esq., Hon. Samuel Phillips, Esq., Hon. Richard
Derby, Esq., Hon. James Otis, Esq., Hon. William Seaver, Esq., Hon.
Walter Spooner, Esq., Hon. Jeremiah Powell, Esq., Hon. Benjamin
Chadburn, Esq., Hon. Jedediah Preble, Esq., and Hon. George Leo-
nard, Esq., constitutional members of his majesty's council of this
colony, by the royal charter, chosen to said office last May session, be
desired to give their attendance at the next meeting of this Congress
upon adjournment, that this body may have the benefit of their advice
upon the important matters that may then come under consideration
And the secretary of this Congress is hereby directed to transmit to
those gentlemen severally a copy of this resolve.
The committee appointed to bring in a resolve relative to a non-
consumption agreement, reported. The report was read and ordered
to be committed for amendments. It was accordingly amended, read
again, and accepted, and is as followeth, viz :
Whereas, ||the people of || this province have not, as yet, received
from the Continental Congress such explicit directions respecting non-
importation and non consumption agreements as are expected ; and
whereas, the greatest part of the inhabitants of this colony have lately
entered into non importation and non consumption agreements, the
good effects of which are very conspicuous : Therefore,
Resolved, That this Congress approve of the said agreements, and
earnestly recommend to all the inhabitants of this colony, strictly to
conform to the same, until the further sense of the continental or the pro-
vincial Congress is made public. And further, this Congress highly
applaud the conduct of those patriotic merchants, who have generously
refrained from importing British goods since the commencement of the
a ll.Samiiel.ll
1774.] FIRST PROVINCIAL CONGRESS. 41
cruel Boston port bill ; at the same time reflect with pain on the con-
duct of those who have sordidly preferred their private interest to the
salvation of their suffering country, by continuing to import as usual ;
and recommend it to the inhabitants of the province, that they discour-
age the conduct of said importers by refusing to purchase any articles
whatever of them.
[Ordn-rd, That the foregoing report] be published.
The committee appointed to inquire into the state of the warlike
stores in the commissary general's oflice, reported ; and it was there-
upon Ordered, ThatCapt. Heath, Doct. Warren, and Doct. Church, be
a committee to take care of, and lodge in some safe place in the coun-
try, the warlike stores now in the commissary general's office, and that
the matter be conducted with the greatest secrecy.
Resolved, That the committee of correspondence of the town of Wor-
cester be desired to take proper care that the bayonets, the property of
this province, now in the hands of Col. Chandler, be removed to some
safe place at a distance from his house.
||The Congress then|| adjourned till to-morrow morning nine o'clock.
Saturday, October 29, 1774, A. M.
The committee appointed to take into consideration what military
exercise is best for the people of this province now to adopt, reported ;
the report was read and accepted, and
Ordered, That Major Foster bring in a resolve accordingly ; who, in
obedience to the above order, reported the following resolve, which
was read and accepted, and ordered to be published in the Boston
newspapers.
Resolved, That it be recommended to the inhabitants of this prov-
ince, that in order to their perfecting themselves in the military art,
they proceed in the method ordered by his majesty in the year 1764,
it being, in the opinion of this Congress, best calculated for appear-
ance and defence.
Upon a motion, the question was put, whether the Congress will now
go into the consideration of the propriety of keeping the records of
the county of Suffolk in the town of Boston, and passed in the affir-
mative.
After a very considerable debate on the question, it was ordered that
the matter now subside.
Resolved, That the consideration of the state of the executive courts
in the province be referred to the next meeting of this Congress.
Ordered, That Capt. Gardner, Mr. Wheeler, and Mr. Watson, be a
6
42 FIRST PROVINCIAL CONGRESS. [Oct. 29,
committee to wait on the Rev. Doct. Appleton, with the thanks of this
body for his constant attendance on, and praying with them, during
their session in the town of Cambridge.
Ordered, That the payment of several expenses of this Congress
be referred until the next meeting thereof.
Resolved, That the committee of safety be desired to write to the
Continental Congress, showing them the grounds and reasons of our
proceedings, and enclose them a copy of our votes and resolutions.
Ordered, That Major Foster, Doct. Holten, and Mr. Appleton, be a
committee to look over the resolves and orders of this Congress, and
point out what is necessary now to be made public.
The Committee appointed to wait on the Rev. Doct. Appleton, with
the thanks of this Congress, reported that they had attended to that
service, and that the Doct. informed them that the Congress were wel-
come to his services, and that he wished them the blessing of heaven.
Resolved, That when this Congress shall adjourn that it be adjourn-
ed to the 23d day of November next, at ten o'clock in the forenoon,
then to meet at this place.
The committee on the state of the province having amended the re-
plication to his excellency's answer to our message to him, the same
being read, was accepted unanimously.
Ordered, That Capt. Heath, Capt. White, Capt. Gardner, Mr.
Cheever, and Mr. Devens, be a committee to wait upon his excellency
with the following replication to his excellency's [answer.]
May it please your Excellency :
The province having been repeatedly alarmed by your excellency's
unusual and warlike preparations since your arrival into it, and having,
by this Congress, expressed a reasonable expectation that you would
desist from, and demolish your fortifications on Boston neck, it must
afford matter of astonishment not only to the province, but the whole
continent, that you should treat our importunate applications with
manifest insensibility and disregard.
The Congress are possessed of a writing with your signature, which
purports itself to be a message to this body, although addressed to
sundry gentlemen by name, who, officiating as our committee, present-
ed an address to your excellency. We are surprised at your saying,
that " what we call a fortress, unless annoyed, will annoy nobody ;"
when, from your acquaintance with the constitution of Britain, and of
the province over which you have been by his majesty commissioned
to preside, you must know, that barely keeping a standing army in the
1774] FIRST PROVINCIAL CONGRESS. 43
province, in time of peace, without consent of tlie representatives, is
against law, and must be considered as a great grievance to tlie sub-
ject— a grievance which this people could not, with a due regard to
their freedom, endure, was there not reason to hope that his majes-
ty, upon ||"being|| undeceived, would order redress. Is it not astonish-
ing then, sir, that you should have ventured to assert that a " fortress,"
by whatever name your excellency is pleased to call it, which puts it
in the power of the standing army which you command to cut off com-
munication between the country and the capital of this province ; to
imprison the many thousand inhabitants of the town of Boston ; to in-
sult and destroy them upon the least, or even without any provocation,
and which is evidently a continual annoyance to that oppressed com-
munity, " unless annoyed, will annoy nobody 1"
A retrospect of your excellency's conduct, since your late residence
in this province, we conclude, will convince you of that truth, the
mere hinting of which, you tell us, " is highly exasperating as well as
ungenerous." We presume your excellency will not deny that you
have exerted yourself to execute the acts made to subvert the con-
stitution of the province, although your excellency's connections with
a ministry inimical to the province, and your being surrounded by men
of the worst political principles, preclude a prospect of your fully ex-
ercising towards this province your wonted benevolence and humanity;
yet, sir, we pray you to indulge your social virtues so far as to consid-
er the necessary feelings of this people under the hand of oppression.
Have not invasions of private property, by your excellency, been re-
peatedly made at Boston ? Have not the inhabitants of Salem, whilst
peaceably assembled for concerting measures to preserve their free-
dom, and unprepared to defend themselves, been in imminent danger
from your troops? Have you not, by removing the ammunition of the
province, and by all other means in your power, endeavored to put it
in a state utterly defenceless ? Have you not expressly declared that
" resentment might justly be expected" from your troops, merely in
consequence of a refusal of some inhabitants of the province to sup-
ply them with property undeniably their own 1 Surely these are ques-
tions founded on incontestible facts, which, we think, must prove that
while the " avowed enemies" of Great Britain and the colonies, are
protected by your excellency, the lives, liberties, and properties of the
inhabitants of the province, who are real friends to the British consti-
tution, are greatly endangered, whilst under the control of your stand-
ing army.
a llhis being. (]
44 FIRST PROVINCIAL CONGRESS. [Oct. 29,
It must be matter of grief to every true Briton, that the honor of
British troops is sullied by the infamous errand on which they are sent
to America; and whilst, in the unjust cause, on which you are engaged,
menaces will never produce submission from the people of this prov-
ince, your excellency, as well as the army, can only preserve your
honor by refusing to submit to the most disgraceful prostitution of
subserving plans so injurious, [and] so notoriously iniquitous and cruel
to this people.
Your excellency professes to be solicitous for "preserving union and
harmony between Great Britain and the colonies ;" and we sincerely
hope that you will distinguish yourself by exertions for this purpose ;
for, should you be an instrument of involving in a civil war this op-
pressed and injured land, it must forever deprive you of that tranquilli-
ty which finally bids adieu to those whose hands have been polluted
with innocent blood.
Your excellency reminds us of the spirit of the British nation ; we
partake, we rejoice in her honors, and especially revere her for her
great national virtues ; we hope she never will veil her glory, or haz-
ard success by exerting that spirit in support of tyranny.
Your excellency's strange misconception of facts, is not less conspic-
uous in the close of your message than in many other parts of it.
You have suggested that the conduct of the province, for supporting
the constitution, is an instance of its violation. To declare the truth,
relative to this matter, must be a full vindication of our conduct
therein.
The powers placed in your excellency, for the good of the province,
to convene, adjourn, prorogue, and dissolve the general court, have
been perverted to ruin and enslave the province, while our constitu-
ents, the loyal subjects of his majesty, have been compelled, for the
laudable purposes of preserving the constitution, and therein their
freedom, to obtain the wisdom of the province in a way which is not
only justifiable by reason, but, under the present exigencies of the
state, directed by the principles of the constitution itself; warranted
by the most approved precedent and examples, and IpsanctionedH by
the British nation, at the revolution ; upon the strength and validity of
which precedent the whole British constitution now stands, his present
majesty wears his crown, and all subordinate officers hold their places.
And although we are willing to put the most favorable construction on
the warning you have been pleased to give us of the " rock on which
a llBanctified.ll
1774.J FIRST PROVINCIAL CONGRESS 45
we are," we beg leave to inform you that our constituents do not ex-
pect, that, in the execution of tliat important trust which they have re-
posed in us, we should be wholly guided by your advice. We trust,
sir, that we shall not fail in our duty to our country and loyalty to our
king, or in a proper respect to your excellency.
Resolved, That the foregoing replication to his excellency's answer
be published in the newspapers.
Ordered, That Major Hawley, Col. Lee, and Mr. Gerry, be a com-
mittee to extract such parts of the resolves which passed in this Con-
gress, tlie 2()th and 2Hth current, and are necessary now to be publish-
ed ; who reported as followeth :
Whereas, it has been recommended by this Congress, that the moneys
heretofore granted and ordered to be assessed by the general court of
this province, and not paid into the province treasury, should not be
paid to the Hon. Harrison Gray, Esq., for reasons most obvious :
Therefore, Resolved, That Henry Gardner, Esq., of Stow, be, and
hereby is, appointed receiver general until the further order of this or
some other Congress or house of representatives of this province,
whose business it shall be to receive all such moneys as shall be offer-
ed to be paid into his hands to the use of the province, by the several
constables, collectors, or other persons, by order of the several towns
or districts, and to give his receipt for the same. And it is hereby re-
commended to the several towns and districts, within this province,
that they immediately call town and district meetings, and give direc-
tions to all constables, collectors, and other persons who may have any
part of the province tax of such town or district in their respective
hands or possession, in consequence of any late order and directions
of any town or district, that he or they immediately pay the same to
the said Henry Gardner, Esq., for the purposes aforesaid. And it is
also recommended that the several towns and districts, in said direc-
tions, signify and expressly engage to such constable, collector, or other
persons as shall have their said moneys in their hands, that their pay-
ing the same to Henry Gardner, Esq., aforesaid, and producing his re-
ceipt therefor, shall ever hereafter operate as an effectual discharge to
such persons for the same. And it is hereby recommended, that the
like order be observed respecting the tax ordered by the great and gen-
eral court at their last May session. And it is further recommended
to all sheriffs or deputy sheriffs, or coroners, who may have in their
hands any moneys belonging to the province, that they immediately
pay the same to the said receiver general, taking his receipt therefor.
And the said Henry Gardner, Esq., the receiver general, shall be ac-
46 FIRST PROVINCIAL CONGRESS. [Oct. 29,
countable to this or some other Congress or house of representatives
of this province.
And to the end that all the moneys heretofore assessed in pursuance
of any former grants and orders of the great and general court or as-
sembly of this province, and hitherto uncollected by the several con-
stables and collectors to whom the several lists of assessment thereof
were committed, may be effectually levied and collected ; and also to
the end that all the moneys granted and ordered to be assessed by
the general court at their session in May last, which have been assess-
ed, or which may be assessed, may be also speedily and punctually col-
lected, it is earnestly recommended by this body to the several consta-
bles and collectors, respectively, who have such assessments in their
hands, or to whom any assessments yet to be made may be committed
by the assessors of any towns or districts, that, in levying and collect-
ing the respective part or proportion of the total of such assessments
therein set down to the several persons named therein, they should act
and proceed in the same way and manner as is expressed and provided
in the form of a warrant, given and contained in ||''an|| act or law of
this province, entitled " an act prescribing the form of a warrant for
collecting of town assessments," &c.
And it is hereby strongly recommended to all the inhabitants of the
several towns and districts in this province, that they, without fail, do
afford to their respective constables and collectors all that aid and as-
sistance which shall be necessary to enable them in that manner to
levy the contents of such assessments ; and that they do oblige and
compel the said constables and collectors to comply with and execute
the directions of this resolve, inasmuch as the present most alarming
situation and circumstances of this province do make it absolutely
necessary for the safety thereof.
Whereas, in consequence of the present unhappy disputes between
Great Britain and the colonies, a formidable body of troops, with war-
like preparations of every sort, are already arrived at, and others des-
tined for the metropolis of this province; and the ||''expressed|| design
of their being sent, is to execute acts of the British parliament utterly
subversive of the constitution of the province ; and whereas, his ex-
cellency General Gage has attempted by his troops to disperse the in-
habitants of Salem, whilst assembled to consult measures for preserv-
ing their freedom, and to subjugate the province to arbitrary govern-
ment ; and, proceeding to still more unjustifiable and alarming lengths,
has fortified against the country the capital of the province, and thus
a ||ono.|| b ||oxpres8.||
1774] FIRST PROVINCIAL CONGRESS. 47
gre.ntly ondaiifrcred the lives, liberties Jind properties of its oppressed
citizens ; invaded private property by unlawfully seizing and retaining
large quantities of ammunition in the arsenal at Boston, and sundry
pieces of ordnance in the same town ; committed to the custody of his
troops, the arms, ammunition, ordnance, and warlike stores of
ail sorts, provided at the public expense, for the use of the province ;
and by all possible means endeavored to place the province entirely in
a defenceless state ; at the same time having neglected and altogether
disregarded assurances from this Congress of the pacific dispositions of
the inhabitants of the province, and entreaties that he would cease from
measures which tended to prevent a restoration of harmony between
Great Britain and the colonies :
Wherefore it is the opinion of this Congress, that notwithstanding
nothing but slavery ought more to be deprecated than hostilities with
Great Britain, notwithstanding the province has not the most distant
design of attacking, annoying, or molesting his majesty's troops, afore-
said, but, on the other hand, will consider and treat every attempt of the
kind, as well as all measures tending to prevent a reconciliation be-
tween Great Britain and the colonies as the highest degree of enmity
to the province, nevertheless, there is great reason, from the considera-
tions aforesaid, to be apprehensive of the most fatal consequences ;
and that the province may be in some degree provided against the
same, and under full persuasion that the measures expressed in the fol-
lowing resolves are perfectly consistent with such resolves of the Con-
tinental Congress as have been communicated to us, it is
Resolved, and hereby recommended to the several companies of mili-
tia in this province, who have not already chosen and appointed officers,
that they meet forthwith, and elect officers to command their respective
companies ; and that the officers so chosen assemble as soon as may
I)e ; and where the said officers shall judge the limits of the present
regiments too extensive that they divide them, and settle and determine
their limits, and proceed to elect field officers to command their respec-
tive regiments l|so formed ;|| and that the field officers, so elected, forth-
with endeavor to enlist one quarter, at least, of the number of the re-
spective companies, and form them into companies of fifty privates, at
the least, who shall equip and hold themselves in readiness to march at
the shortest notice; and that each and every company, so formed,
choose a captain and two lieutenants to command them on any neces-
sary and emergent service, and that the said captains and subalterns,
so elected, form the said companies into battalions, to consist of nine
companies each, and that the captains and subalterns of each battalion,
48 FIRST PROVINCIAL CONGRESS. [Nov. 23,
so formed, proceed to elect field officers to command the same. And
the Congress doth most earnestly recommend that all the aforesaid
elections be proceeded in and made with due deliberation and l|a|l gen-
erous regard to the public service.
Also Resolved, That the security of the lives, liberties, and proper-
ties of the inhabitants of this province depends, under Providence, on
their knowledge and skill in the art military, and in their being proper-
ly and effectually armed and equipped ; if any of said inhabitants are
not provided with arms and ammunition, according to law, that they
immediately provide themselves therewith, and that they use their ut-
most diligence to perfect themselves in military skill ; and that if any
town or district within the province is not provided with the full town
stock of arms and ammunition, according to law, the selectmen of
such town or district take effectual care, without delay, to provide the
same.
The committee on the state of the province, reported a resolve rela-
tive to the removal of the inhabitants of the town of Boston. After
the same was read and some debate had thereon, the question (upon a
motion made) was put, whether the matter now subside, and it passed
in the affirmative.
Resolved, As the opinion of this Congress, that Cambridge is the
most eligible place for the committee of safety, at present, to sit in.
Resolved, That two gentlemen be added to the committee of safety.
Ordered, That Col. Prescot, Doct. Holten, and Mr. Gill, be a com-
mittee to count and sort the votes for two gentlemen to be added to
the committee of safety.
The Congress then proceeded to bring in their votes. Afler count-
ing and sorting the same, the committee reported that Mr. Pigeon and
Capt. Heath were chosen.
Resolved, That the extract of the resolves, relative to the militia,
which passed this day be printed, and a copy thereof sent to all the
towns and districts in this province.
The Congress adjourned till the 23d day of November next, at ten
o'clock in the forenoon, then to meet in this place.
Wednesday, November 23, 1774, A. M.
The Congress met according to adjournment, and then adjourned
till half past two o'clock this afternoon.
Afternoon.
The Congress being apprehensive that the Hon. Walter Spooner,
Esq., had not received the resolve passed by them, inviting the mem-
1774] FIRST PROVINCIAL CONGRESS. 49
bers of his mnjesty's constitutional council to attend the Congress on
this day, Resolved that he be again wrote to, desiring his attendance
here immediately, and that a messenger be despatched therewith with-
out delay.
Resolved, That the gentlemen who were members of the late Conti-
nental, and are of this Provincial Congress, be joined to the committee
on the state of the province.'
Resolved, That John Adams, Esq., be desired to favor this Congress
with his presence, as soon as mciy be.
Resolved, That Robert Treat Paine, Esq., be desired to attend this
Congress, as soon as possible.
Then the Congress adjourned till to-morrow morning, ten o'clock.
Thursdat, November 24, 1774, A. M.
Resolved, That the chairman of the committee from this province
who were members of the continental Congress, be desired to report
the proceedings of said Congress.
Ordered, That Capt. Gardner, Col. Prescot, and Doct. Holten, be a
committee to wait on the Rev. Doct. Appleton, and desire that he
would officiate as chaplain to this Congress, during their session in
this town.
The committee waited on the Rev. Doct. Appleton accordingly,
and reported that they had delivered the message, and that the Doctor
would officiate as chaplain, agreeably to the desire of the Con-
gress.
The chairman of the committee appointed by this province to meet
in Continental Congress, reported, that they had attended that service;
that the Congress had taken into consideration the state of the colo-
nies, [and] that he had a journal of their whole proceedings, which he
would lay on the table.-
Resolved, That the doings of the Continental Congress be now read,
which were read accordingly.
Resolved, That the state of rights, state of grievances, and the as-
(1) Hon. James Bowdoin, Hon. Thomas Gushing, Mr. Samuel Adams, John Adams, Esq., and
Robert Treat Paine, Esq., were elected by the house of representatives of Massachusetts, June
17, 1774, delegates to the Continental Congress, wliich convened at Philadelphia, September 5th,
and was dissolved October 26, 1774. These gentlemen, with the exception of James Bowdoin,
were returned as members of the Provincial Congress.
(2) The journal of the proceedings of the Continental Congress was printed immediately after
the dissolution of that body, in October, 1774, by William and Thomas Bradford, at Philadelphia,
in an octavo pamphlet of 132 pages.
50 FIRST PROVENCIAL CONGRESS. [Nov. 25,
sociation, as stated by the Continental Congress, be committed.^ The
same was accordingly committed to the Hon. Major Hawley, Hon. Mr.
Dekter, Doct. Warren, Col. Lee, Mr. Gerry, Col. Warren, and Doct.
Church, who are to consider thereof and report.
Adjourned to three o'clock this afternoon.
Afternoon.
The petition from the officers of the minute men, in the northwest
part of the county of Worcester, [was] read and committed to the com-
mittee on the state of the province.^
Ordered, That the committee appointed to sit in the recess to pre-
pare a plan for the defence and safety of the government, be directed
to sit forthwith.
Ordered, That the committee appointed to publish the names of the
mandamus counsellors, and others, now in the town of Boston, be di-
rected to sit forthwith and prepare a report.
Adjourned till to-morrow morning, ten o'clock.
Friday, November 25, 1774, A. M.
Ordered, That Doct. Holten, Col. Foster, and Col. Roberson, be a
committee to inquire what number of the constitutional counsellors
are now in town.
Resolved, That the members from the town of Worcester apply to
Col. Chandler, and receive from him the bayonets he has in his hands
and is now ready to deliver ;3 and inquire what sum or sums of money
have been paid to him by the treasurer, for the purpose of procuring
bayonets; how many were procured by him, and to whom they were
delivered, and the state of his account relative to the money by him
received for the purpose aforesaid.
Ordered, That a copy of this resolve be given to the members afore-
said.
Resolved, That Doct. Holten, Col. Foster, Col. Roberson, Capt.
Baldwin, and Mr. Cushing, be a committee to wait on such gentlemen
of his majesty's constitutional council of this province, who are now
in town at the request of this Congress, and acquaint them that this
(1) Tho declaration of righta and statement of grievances, were adopted l)y the Continental Con-
gress, October 14, 1774 : the plan of an association for carrying into effect the non consumption,
non importation, and non exportation agreements, having been rejjorted and considered, was ac-
cepted and subscribed by the members, October 20, 1774.
(2) Tho militia of Worcester county requested that tho Congress would establish the military
drill called the JVorfolk ezercite, instead of that system prescribed for tho discipline of his majes-
ty's troops in 1764.
(3) About one hundred bayonets were in the keeping of Col. Chandler.
1774.] FIRST PROVINCIAL CONGRESS. 51
Congress respectfully acknowledge their cheerful attendance, but will
not be ready to oHer any matters for their advice, until a (luoruni of
that honorable board shall appear, and which ia soon expected ; and
that in the mean time a seat is provided for them in this house, if they
shall see cause to be present.
Jiesoliu'f/, That it be the rule of this Congress at present, that they
sit in the forepart of the day, and that they adjourn over the afternoon,
in order to give time fo. the committees to sit and perfect the business
with which they are severally charged.
Ordered, That Col. Thomas, Capt. Gardner, and Mr. Watson, be a
committee to inquire whether a more convenient place than that in
which the Congress now sits, can be procured for them to meet in.
Resolved, That every member of this Congress be enjoined to give
constant attendance during the session thereof; and in case any should
be under a necessity of absence, that they signify the sqjne to the Con-
gress, in order to their obtaining leave to withdraw.
Adjourned till ten o clock to-morrow morning.
Saturday, November 26, 1774, A. M.
The committee appointed to wait on the members of his majesty's
council now in town, reported, that they had attended that service ; had
seen the Hon. Mr. Cushing, and the Hon. Mr. Seaver, and had deliv-
ered to them the message with which they were charged ; they being
the only members in town.
Ordered, That the same committee wait on the other gentlemen of
his majesty's council, invited by this Congress to attend here, as they
come into town, and inform them of the resolve of this Congress.
Ordered, That Capt. Heath, Mr. Adams, Col. Doolittle, Col. Pome-
roy, and Hon. Mr. Dexter, be a committee to devise some means of
keeping up a correspondence between this province, Montreal and
Quebec, and of gaining very frequent intelligence from thence of their
movements.
The committee appointed yesterday to see if some more convenient
place could be procured for the Congress, than that in which they now
sit, reported, that the new chapel can be had, and that it is the most
convenient place that they can obtain.
Ordered, That this matter now subside.
Ordered, That Mr. Sullivan, Hon. Major Hawley, and the Hon. Mr.
Cushing, be a committee to draw the form of an order with respect to
the treasurer's giving bonds, and report.
Ordered, That Mr. Wheeler, Mr. Adams, Hon. Mr. Cushing, and
52 FIRST PROVINCIAL CONGRESS. [Nov. 28,
Doct. Church, be added to the committee appointed to publish the
names of the mandamus counsellors, and others, now in Boston.
Adjourned till Monday morning, ten o'clock.
Monday, November 28, 1774, A. M.
Ordered, That Mr. Palmer, Mr. Cushing, Col. Gerish, Mr. Bigelow,
Major Fuller, Mr. Pickering, and Col. Pomeroy, be a committee to
take into consideration the state of the manufactures, and how they
may be improved in this province.
||Congress|| adjourned till to-morrow morning, ten o'clock.
Tuesday, November 29, 1774, A. M.
Ordered, That Col. Henshaw, Mr. Palmer, Mr. Gorham, Mr. Lothrop,
and Mr. Pigeon, be a committee to make as just an estimate as may be
of the loss and damage of every kind |l°accrued|| to the province by
the operation of the Boston port bill and the act for altering the civil
government, from their commencement to this time.
Ordered, That Doct. Foster, Mr. Gorham, and Col. Orne, be a com-
mittee to state the amount of the sums which have been extorted from
us since the year 1763, by the operation of certain acts of the British
parliament.
Resolved, That a messenger be despatched to the town of Salem, in
order to gain what intelligence can be had by the last vessels from Lon-
don, and that the messenger bring with him the Essex paper to this
Congress ; and that Mr. Bigelow be desired to take upon him the
above service.
Resolved, That Mr. Devens be desired to go to Boston and inquire
what advice came by the last vessels from London.
Resolved, That when this Congress shall adjourn, that it be adjourn-
ed to three o'clock this afternoon, Ipwhich was then adjourned ac-
cordingly. ||
Afternoon.
Mr. Devens reported that, in obedience to the order of the Con-
gress, he had been to the town of Boston ; that the letters from Lon-
don by the last ships had not come to hand ; that Doct. Church was in
Boston, and would bring them to the Congress as soon as they should
arrive.
Resolved, That to-morrow, at eleven o'clock, the Congress will take
into consideration the expediency of appointing members to attend a
a ||occaBionod.|| b ||Adjournod to three o'clock this afternoon. ||
1774.] riRST PROVINCIAL CONGRESS. 53
Continental Congress, to be held at Philadelphia, agreeably to the re-
commendation of the la.st Continental Congress.
Adjourned to ten o'clock to-morrow morning.
Wednesday, November 30, 1774, A. M.
The order of the day was moved for.
The expediency of appointing members to attend a Continental
Congress, was considered : Thereupon,
Resolved, unanimously, as the opinion of this body, that members
be appointed to attend a Continental Congress, proposed to be held at
Philadelphia, on the tenth day of May next, agreeably to the recom-
mendation of the late Continental Congress.
Resolved, That five members be appointed.
Resolved, That to-morrow, at three o'clock in the afternoon, be as-
signed to come to the choice of delegates to attend the Continental
Congress, proposed to be held at Philadelphia, on the 10th day of May
next.
Ordered, That the Hon. Mr. Winthrop, Mr. Sullivan, and Doct.
Foster, bring in a resolve expressing the thanks of this body to the
other colonies, for their generous donations to the inhabitants of the
town of Boston, now laboring under the oppression of certain acts of
the British parliament.
\\Resolved, That the same committee prepare a brief, to be cir-
culated throughout the several towns in this province, to promote
donations for the persons suffering, in the towns of Boston and
Charlestown, under the operation of certain acts of the British par-
liament.||
Adjourned till three o'clock this afternoon.
Afternoon.
Resolved, That the letters from Doct. Franklin to Mr. Cushing,
which have been now read, be committed to the provincial committee
of correspondence.^
IJThen the Congress]] adjourned till to-morrow morning, ten
o'clock.
(1) Letters addressed by Doct. Franklin to tlie Hon. Thomas Cushing, bearing date, December
2, 1772 ; January 5, March 9, April 3, May 6, June 2, June 4, July 7, July 25, August 24, Septem-
ber 12, November 1, 1773; and January 5, 1774 ; have been published in the coUectioriS of the
writings of the patriot and philosopher. As none of the communications preserved by the editors
of Franklin's writings, corresporul with the time when those mentioned in the text were laid be-
fore Congress, it is probable that the letters entrusted to the committee of correspondence have
perished with the other papers on their files.
54 FIRST PROVINCIAL CONGRESS. [Dec. 1,
Thursday, December 1, 1774, A. M.
The committee appointed to bring in a resolve expressing the thanks
of this body to the other colonies, for their generous donations to the
inhabitants of the town of Boston, reported. The report was recom-
mitted for amendments.
The same committee reported a brief to be circulated through the
several towns, to promote donations to the towns of Boston and Charles-
town ; also recommitted for amendments.
The committee appointed to take into consideration the state of
rights, the state of grievances, and the association, as stated by the
Continental Congress, reported. The report was then taken into con-
sideration, [and] the further consideration thereof [was] referred to
three o'clock this afternoon.
\\Resolved, That the choice of delegates, which was to have been at
three o'clock this afternoon, be deferred till three o'clock to-morrow
afternoon.il
||Then adjourned till three o'clock this afternoon. |1
Afternoon.
The Congress resumed the consideration of the report of the com-
mittee, agreeably to their resolve in the forenoon ; after some debate
thereon, it was ordered to be recommitted for an amendment.
The resolve expressing the thanks of this body to the other colonies,
for their donations to the town of Boston, &/C., as amended, was read
and accepted, and is as followeth :
Whereas, by the rigorous operation of the Boston Port Bill, the
metropolis of this province, and the neighboring town of Charlestown,
have been brought into the most distressful state, many of the inhabit-
ants being deprived of the means of procuring their subsistence, and
reduced to the cruel alternative of quitting their habitations, or of per-
ishing in them by famine, if they had not been supported by the free
and generous contributions of our sister colonies, even from the re-
motest part of this continent :
Resolved, That the grateful acknowledgments of this Congress be
returned to the several colonies, for having so deeply interested them-
selves in behalf of said towns, under their present sufferings in the
common cause ; and that the Congress consider these donations, not
merely as unexampled acts of benevolence to this province in general,
which has also greatly suffered, and of charity to those towns in par-
ticular, but as convincing proofs of the firm attachment of all the colo-
nies to the glorious cause of American liberty, and of their fixed de-
1774.] FIRST PROVINCIAL CONGRESS. 56
termination to support them in the noble stand they are now making
for the liberties of themselves and of all America.
The committee appointed to prepare a brief, reported their draught,
amended : Ordered, to be recommitted for a revision, and for such
further amendments as they shall think proper.
Ordered, That Mr. Devens apply to the secretary for a list of coun-
sellors appointed by mandamus ; and in case he should be refused such
list, he is desired to take with him a notary public, and in his presence
again desire the same and tender the secretary his fee.
||Then|| adjourned till to-morrow morning, ten o'clock.
Friday, December 2, 1774, A. M.
The doorkeeper [was] directed to call in the members, and to call
none out till the further order of this Congress.
The committee on the state of the province reported. The report
[was] taken into consideration.
Ordered, That the further consideration thereof be referred till four
o'clock this afternoon. yil
Afternoon.
The order of the day [was] moved for.
Ordered, That Doct. Holten, Capt. Cushing, and Doct. Church, be
a committee to sort and count the votes for five members to be chosen
to represent this province at an American Congress, to be held at
Philadelphia, at or before the tenth day of May next.
The Congress then proceeded to biing in their votes for five gentle-
men to be delegated for the purpose aforesaid. The committee hav-
ing counted and sorted the same, reported that the Hon. John Han-
cock, Hon. Thomas Cushing, Esq., Mr. Samuel Adams, John Adams,
and Robert Treat Paine, Esquires, were chosen.
The consideration of the report of the committee made in the fore-
noon, [was] resumed : some time [was] spent thereon, then, ordered, that
the further consideration thereof be referred till nine o'clock to-mor-
row morning.
Ordered, That the vote which passed yesterday, expressing the
thanks of this body to the other colonies for their donations made to
the towns of Boston and Charlestown, be published in all the Boston
newspapers : and that it be attested by the president.
Resolved, That the committee appointed to publish the names of
the mandamus counsellors who have been sworn and have not resigned,
a ||To which time thia Congress stands adjourned. ||
56 FIRST PROVINCIAL CONGRESS. [Dec. 3,
be desired to send a messenger to Mr. Hall, printer, in Salem, and in-
quire of him whether he hath a list of the counsellors appointed by
mandamus, which he received from the secretary's office ; and if he
hath a list so received, to desire him to favor this Congress therewith.
The report of the committee appointed to take into consideration
the state of rights, the state of grievances, and the association, as sta-
ted by the Continental Congress, being amended, was read, and a con-
sideration thereof went into.
Ordered, That the further consideration thereof be referred till to-
morrow morning, ten o'clock.
IjThen the Congress|| adjourned till nine o'clock to-morrow morn-
ing.
Saturday, December 3, 1774, A. M.
The Congress then went into the consideration of the report of the
committee on the state of the province, agreeably to their order of yes-
terday. After a long debate thereon, it was ordered to lie on the ta-
ble, and that the committee have leave to sit again.
||Then the Congressjl adjourned till Monday next, at ten o'clock in
the forenoon.
Monday, December 5, 1774, A. M.
Ordered, That Doct. Winthrop, Mr. Sullivan, Mr Pickering, Mr.
Bridge, and Mr. Cheever, be a committee to prepare an address to the
clergy of this province, desiring them to exhort their people to carry
into execution the resolves of the Continental Congress.
llThen the Congress|| adjourned till three o'clock this afternoon.
.Afternoon.
The Congress resumed the consideration of the report of the com-
mittee appointed to take into consideration the state of rights, state of
grievances, and the association, as stated by the Continental Congress,
and it was accepted, and is as followeth :
Resolved, That the proceedings of the American Continental Con-
gress, held at Philadelphia on the fifth of September last, and reported
by the honorable delegates from this colony, have, with the delibera-
tion due to their high importance, been considered by us ; and the
American bill of rights therein contained, appears to be formed with
the greatest ability and judgment : to be founded on the immutable
laws of nature and reason, the principles of the English constitution,
and the respective charters and constitutions of the colonies ; and to be
worthy of their most vigorous support, as essentially necessary to lib-
erty : likewise the ruinous and iniquitous measures, which, in violation
1774] FIRST PROVINCIAL CONGRESS. 57
of their riglits, at present convulse and threaten destruction to Ameri-
ca, ||"|| appear to be clearly pointed out, and judicious plans adopted for
defeating them.
Kr.'iolrif/, That the most grateful acknowledgments are due to the
truly honorable and patriotic members of the Continental Congress,
tor their wise and able exertions in the cause of American liberty;
and this Congress, in their own names, and in behalf of this colony,
do hereby, with the utmost sincerity, express the same.
Resolved, That the Hon. John Hancock, Hon. Thomas Gushing,
Esqrs., Mr. Samuel Adams, John Adams, and Robert Treat Paine,
Esqrs., or any three of them, be, and they hereby are appointed and
authorized to represent this colony on the tenth of May next, or sooner,
if necessary, at the American Congress to be held at Philadelphia,
with full power, with the delegates from the other American colonies,
to concert, direct, and order such further measures as shall to them
appear to be best calculated for the recovery and establishment of
American rights and liberties, and for restoring harmony between
Great Britain and the colonies.
And whereas, it is of the utmost importance that the salutary asso-
ciation of the Continental Congress be effectually executed, and the
plans of foes to America defeated; who, aided by tyrannical power, in-
tend to import goods, wares, and merchandize prohibited by the as-
sociation, which may clandestinely be vended, as goods imported be-
fore the first of December instant, by assistance of such merchants
and traders as to this intent shall basely prostitute themselves ; and it
will be extremely difficult to distinguish between goods imported be-
fore the said first of December, and such as after said day shall, in vi-
olation of the association, be imported and secretly dispersed through-
out the colony : and whereas, it is expressly recommended by the Con-
tinental Congress " to the Provincial Conventions, and to the commit-
tees in the respective colonies, to establish such further regulations as
they may think proper, for carrying into execution the association ;"
Resolved, That from and after the tenth day of October next, it will
be indispensably necessary, that all goods, wares, or merchandize, di-
rectly or indirectly imported from Great Britain or Ireland ; molasses,
syrups, paneles, coffee, or pimento, from the British plantations, or
from Dominica; wines from Madeira or the Western Islands, and for-
eign indigo, should cease to be sold or purchased in this colony, not-
withstanding they shall have been imported before the first of Decem-
ber aforesaid, unless the acts and parts of acts of parliament, (partic-
a Hand. II
8
58 FIRST PROVINCIAL CONGRESS. [Dec. 5,
ularly enumerated in a paragraph of the American Congress's Associa-
tion, subsequent to the fourteenth article,) shall be then repealed : and
it is hereby strongly recommended to the inhabitants of the towns and
districts in this colony, that from and after the said tenth of Octo-
ber, they cease to sell or purchase, and prevent from being exposed to
sale within their respective limits, any goods, wares, or merchandize,
&.C., above enumerated, which shall at any time have been imported
into America, whether before or after the first of December aforesaid,
unless said acts of parliament shall then be repealed. And it is like-
wise strongly recommended to the committee of inspection, (which
ought immediately to be chosen, agreeably to the said association, by
each town and district in the colony not having already appointed such
committees,) that they exert themselves in causing the association, as
thereby directed, to be ||^strictly|| executed ; and that after the said
tenth day of October, (unless the acts of parliament aforesaid are re-
pealed,) they apply to all the merchants and traders in their respective
towns and districts, and take a fiill inventory of all goods, wares, and
merchandize aforesaid in their possession, whether they shall have
been imported before or after the first of December aforesaid, requir-
ing them to oflfer no more for sale, until said acts 1|''1| shall be repealed.
And if any merchants, traders, or others, shall refuse to have an in-
ventory taken, or shall offer for sale after the said tenth of October,
any such goods, wares, or merchandize, it is expressly recommended
to the committees aforesaid, that they take the goods into their posses-
sion, to be stored at the risk of the proper owners, until the repeal of
the acts aforesaid, and publish the names of such refractory merchants,
traders, or purchasers, that they may meet with the merits of enemies
to their country. And the towns and districts throughout the prov-
ince are also advised that they by no means fail vigorously to assist
and support their committees in discharging this as well as other du-
ties of their offices, and to cause this resolution to be executed by ev-
ery measure which they shall think necessary.
Resolved, That John Adams, Esq. be joined to the committee on
the state of the province.
Resolved, That the above report made by the committee appointed
to take into consideration the state of rights, &c., as reported by the
Continental Congress, be published in all the newspapers in the prov-
ince, and that it be signed by the president and attested by the secre-
tary ; and also, that copies thereof be sent to all the towns and districts
in the province.
a ||fully.|{ b ||of parliament. ||
1774] FIRST PROVINCIAL CONGRESS 69
Krsolred, That the vote relating to a brief be reconsidered, and that
it be in order to be revised.
IjThen the Congress!! adjourned till to-morrow morning, nine o'clock.
TuESDAT, December 6, 1774, A. M.
The committee appointed to take into consideration the state of the
manufactures in this province, reported ; the report was recommitted
for some additions.
The committee appointed to devise means of keeping up a corres-
pondence between this province, Montreal and Quebec, and of gain-
ing frequent intelligence from thence of their movements, reported,
that a committee be appointed to correspond with the inhabitants of
Canada. Accordingly, the Hon. Major Hawley, Col. Pomeroy, Mr.
Brown, Mr. Samuel Adams, Doct. Warren, Hon. Mr. Hancock, and
Doct. Church, were appointed a committee for that purpose.
The committee appointed to prepare a brief to be circulated through
the several towns in this province, to promote donations for the per-
sons suffering in the towns of Boston and Charlestown, under the 0{)-
eration of certain acts of the British parliament, having amended the
same, reported ; the report was read and accepted, and is as followeth :
The operation of the cruel and iniquitous Boston port bill, that in-
strument of ministerial vengeance, having reduced our once happy
capital and the neighboring town of Charlestown, from affluence and
ease to extreme distress ; many of their inhabitants being deprived of
even the means of procuring the necessaries of life ; from all which
they have most nobly refused to purchase an exemption, by surrender-
ing the rights of Americans ; and although the charitable donations
from the other colonies and several towns in this province, have, in a
good measure, relieved their immediate necessities, while their appror
bation has animated them to persevere in patient suffering for the pub-
lic good, yet as the severity of winter is now approaching, which must
add greatly to their misery ; and there has been no general collection
for them in this colony, we hold ourselves obliged, in justice, to con-
tribute to their support ; while they, under such a weight of oppres-
sion, are supporting our rights and privileges.
It is therefore Resolved, That it be recommended to our constitu-
ents, the inhabitants of the other towns, districts, and parishes, within
this province, that they further contribute liberally to alleviate the bur-
den of those persons, who are the more immediate objects of ministe-
rial resentment, and are suffering in the common cause of their coun-
try ; seriously considering how much the liberty, and consequently the
60 FIRST PROVINCIAL CONGRESS. [Dec. 6,
happiness, of ourselves and posterity depend, under God, on the firm-
ness and resolution of those worthy patriots.
And it is Ordered, That Doct. Foster, Mr. Devens, and Mr. Chee-
ver, be a comnnttee to transmit printed copies of the above resolve to
the ministers of the gospel in the several towns, districts, and parishes,
in this province, who are desired to read the same to their several con-
gregations, in order that their contributions of such necessaries of life
as they can spare, may be forwarded as soon as possible.
The committee appointed to prepare an address to the clergy, hav-
ing amended the same, again reported ; the report was read and ac-
cepted, and ordered that copies thereof be sent to all the ministers of
the gospel in the province ; l|which|| is as followeth :
Reverend Sirs : — When we contemplate the friendship and assist-
ance our ancestors, the first settlers of this province, (while over-
whelmed with distress) received from the pious pastors of the churches
of Christ, who, to enjoy the rights of conscience, fled with them into
this land, then a savage wilderness, we find ourselves filled with the
most grateful sensations. And we cannot but acknowledge the good-
ness of heaven in constantly supplying us with preachers of the gos-
pel, whose concern has been the temporal and spiritual happiness of
this people.
In a day like this, when all the friends of civil and religious liberty
are exerting themselves to deliver this country from its present calami-
ties, we cannot but place great hopes in an order of men who have
ever distinguished themselves in their country's cause ; and do there-
fore recommend to the ministers of the gospel in the several towns
and other places in this colony, that they assist us in avoiding that
dreadful slavery with which we are now threatened, by advising the
people of their several congregations, as they wish their prosperity, to
abide by, and strictly adhere to, the resolutions of the Continental
Congress, as the most peaceable and probable method of preventing
confusion and bloodshed, and of restoring that harmony between
Great Britain and these colonies, on which we wish might be estab-
lished, not only the rights and liberties of America, but the opulence
and lasting happiness of the whole British empire.
Resolved, Thr.t the foregoing address be presented to all the minis-
ters of the gospel in the province.
||The Congress thenjl adjourned to three o'clock, P. M.
Afternoon.
Resolved, That the names of the following persons be published re-
peatedly, they having been appointed counsellors of this province by
1774] FIRST 1»1U)VINCIAL CONGRESS. 61
inandainiis, and have not published a renunriatioii of their commis-
sion, viz : Thomas Flucker, Foster Ilutcliinson, Harrison Gray, Wil-
liam Browne, James Bouteneau, Joshua Loring, William Pepperrell,
John ErviniT, Jr., Peter Oliver, Richard Lechmere, Josiah Edson, Na-
thaniel Ray Thomas, Timothy Ruggles, John Murray, and Daniel
Leonard, Esquires.
Adjourned to nine o'clock to-morrow morning.
Wednesday, December 7, 1774, A. M.
Ordered, That Capt. Barrett, Mr. Bridge, and Major Fuller, be a
committee to collort the several expenses that have accrued to the
Congress in this and the former session thereof, and they are directed
to sit forthwith.
Ordered, That Mr. Sullivan, Doct. Holten, Mr. Palmer, Col. Lee,
and the Hon. Col. Ward, be a committee to take into consideration
and determine what recompense the delegates, who, from this province
attended the Continental Congress at Philadelphia, in September last,
shall be allowed for their services and expenses.
Ordered, That Col. Orne, Hon. Mr. Cushing, and Hon. Major Haw-
ley, be a committee to bring in a resolve, directing the Hon. James
Russell, Esq., impost officer, to pay the moneys now in his hands to
Henry Gardner, Esq., ||and not to .Harrison Gray, Esq. ;|| the commit-
tee are directed to sit immediately.
Ordered, That John Adams, Esq., Mr. Samuel Adams, and Col.
Danielson, be a committee to bring in a resolve, relative to the taking
the number of inhabitants, and the quantity of exports and imports of
merchandize and of the manufactures of all kinds in this colony ; and
the committee was directed to sit immediately. The ||above|| commit-
tee having attended that service, reported as followeth, viz :
Resolved, That a committee be appointed, consisting of one gentle-
man from each county, and one from each maritime town of this col-
ony, to prepare from the best authentic evidence which can be pro-
cured, a true state of the number of the inhabitants, and of the quan-
tities of exports and imports of goods, wares, and merchandize,
and of the manufactures of all kinds, within the colony, [to] be used
by our delegates ll'atH the Continental Congress, to be held at Phila-
delphia, on or before the tenth day of May next, as they shall think
proper. And the members of this committee for each county be nom-
inated by the members of this Congress for said county, and the mem-
62 FIRST PROVINCIAL CONGRESS. [Dec. 8,
ber for each maritime town be nominated by the representatives of
such town.
Ordered, That the several counties be ready to report their nomina-
tions at three o'clock this afternoon.
Resolved, That Mr. Sullivan be desired to forward to the Hon. Jede-
diah Preble, Esq., a resolve of this Congress appointing him a general
officer. ||"||
Afternoon.
The several counties and maritime towns nominated their members
for the committee according to the resolve in the forenoon, who were
accepted by the Congress, and are as follow, viz :
County of Suffolk, Mr. Palmer; Boston, Doct. Warren; Essex,
Col. Gerrish ; Lynn, Capt. Mansfield ; Marblehead, Col. Orne ; Salem,
Hon. Mr. Derby ; Beverly, Capt. Batchelder ; Manchester, Mr. Wood-
bury ; Gloucester, Capt. Coffin ; Ipswich, Capt. Farley ; Newhuryport,
Capt. Greenleaf ; Haverhill, Samuel White, Esq. ; Danvers, Doct.
Holten ; Middlesex, Col. Prescot ; Charlestown, Mr. Gorham ; Med-
ford, Mr. Hall ; Hampshire, Hon. Major Hawley ; Plymouth, Doct.
Perkins ; Totvn of Plymouth, Mr. Lothrop ; Kingston, Col. Thomas ;
Duxhury, Mr. Partridge ; Scituate, Nathan Cushing, Esq. ; Barnsta-
ble, Daniel Davis, Esq. ; Sandtoich, Capt. Nye ; Eastham, Mr. Hol-
brook ; Bristol, Doct. Cobb; Dartmouth, ^en]dim\n Aiken, Esq. ;
Freetoion, Mr. Durfee ; York, Mr. Sullivan ; Kittery, Charles Chaun-
cy, Esq. ;^ {^Wells, Mr. Ebenezer Sayer ; Dukes County, Joseph May-
hew, Esq. ; Tishury, Mr. Ranford Smith ; Worcester, Jedediah Fos-
ter, Esq. ; Cumberland, Enoch Freeman, Esq. ; Scarborough, Mr.
Samuel March ; North Yarmouth, Mr. John Lewis ; Harpsicell, Mr.
Samuel Thompson ; Berkshire, John Fellows, Esq. ; Lincoln, Mr.
Langdon.]
[Thursday, December, 8, 1774, A. M.]
[The report of the committee appointed to take into consideration
the state of the manufactures of the province being amended, was read,
accepted, and is as follows :]
[As the happiness of particular families arises in a great degree,
from their being more or less dependent upon others ; and as the less
occasion they have for any article belonging to others, the more inde-
pendent, and consequently the happier they are ; so the happiness of
a ||A(ljourned to tlireo o'clock this atlernoon.||
(1) A leaf has, unhappily, been lost from the original journal of the Provincial Congress. The
defective list of members of the committee 1ms been partially restored from the fragment of a
memorandum in the hand writing of Hon. Jedediah Foster. The report, to thn fourth resolution, is
supplied from the Massachusetts Spy, December 23, 1774.
1774] FIRST PROVINCIAL CONGRESS. 63
every political Ixxly of men ii|)ou earth is to be estimated, in a great
inea.sure, upon tlicir greater or less dependence upon any other political
bodies ; and from hence arises a forcible argument, why every state
ought to regidate their internal policy in such a manner as to furnish
themselves, within their own body, with every necessary article for
subsistence and defence, otherwise their political existence will depend
upon others who may take advantage of such weakness and reduce
them to the lowest state of vassalage and slavery. For preventing so
great an evil, more to be dreaded than death itself, it must be the wis-
dom of this colony at all times, more especially at this time, when the
hand of power is lashing us with the scorpions of despotism, to en-
courage agriculture, manufactures, and economy, so as to render this
state as independent of every other state as the nature of our country
will admit ; from the consideration thereof, and trusting that the virtue
of the people of this colony is such, that the following resolutions of
this Congress, which must be productive of the greatest good, will by
them be etfectually carried into execution, and it is therefore /?fso/yet/;]
[1st. That we do recommend to the people the improvement of their
breed of sheep, and the greatest possible increase of the same ; and
also the preferable use of our own woollen manufactures ; and to man-
ufacturers that they ask only reasonable prices for their goods ; and
especially a very careful sorting of the wool, so that it may be manu-
factured to the greatest advantage, and as much as may be into the
best goods.]
[2d. We do also recommend to the people the raising of hemp and
flax ; and as large quantities of flaxseed, more than may be wanted for
sowing, may be produced, we would also farther recommend the man-
ufacturing the same into oil.]
[3d. We do likewise recommend the making of nails, which we ap-
prehend must meet with the strongest encouragement from the public,
and be of lasting benefit both to the manufacturer and the public]
4th. The making of steel, and the preferable use of the same, we
do also recommend to the inhabitants of this colony.
5th. We do in like manner recommend the making tin plate, as an
article well worth the attention of this people.
6th. As fire arms have been manufactured in several parts of this
colony, we do recommend the use of such in preference to any import-
ed ; and we do recommend the making gun-locks, and furniture, and
other locks, with other articles in the iron way.
7th. We do also earnestly recommend the making of saltpetre, as
64 FIRST PROVINCIAL CONGRESS. [Dec. 8,
an article of vast importance, to be encouraged as may be directed
hereafter.
8th. That gun powder is also an article of such importance, that every
man among us who loves his country, must wish the establishment of
manufactories for that purpose ; and as there are the ruins of several
powder mills, and sundry persons among us who are acquainted with
that business, we do heartily recommend its encouragement by repair-
ing one or more of said mills, or erecting others, and renewing said
business as soon as possible.
9th. That as several paper mills are now usefully employed, we do
likewise recommend a preferable use of our own manufactures in this
way ; and a careful saving and collecting of rags, &,c. And, also, that
the manufacturers give a generous price for such rags, &c.
10th. That it will be the interest as well as the duty of this body,
or of such as may succeed us, to make such effectual provision for the
further manufacturing of the several sorts of glass, as that the same
may be carried on to the mutual benefit of the undertaker and the
public, and firmly established in this colony.
11th. Whereas buttons, of excellent qualities, and of various sorts,
are manufactured among us, we do earnestly recommend the general
use of the same, so that the manufactories may be extended to the ad-
vantage of the people and the manufacturers.
12th. And whereas salt is an article of vast consumption within this
colony, and in its fisheries, we do heartily recommend the making the
same in the several ways wherein it is made in several parts of Europe,
especially in the method used in that part of France where they make
bay salt.
13th. We do likewise recommend an encouragement of horn smiths
in all their various branches, as what will be of public utility.
14th. We do also recommend the establishment of one or more
manufactories for making wool-combers' combs, as an article necessa-
ry in our woollen manufactures.
15th. We do in like manner heartily recommend the preferable use
of the stockings and other hosiery ||"wovel| among ourselves, so as to
enlarge the manufactories thereof, in such a manner as to encourage
the manufacturers and serve the country.
16th. As madder is an article of great importance in the dyer's busi-
ness, and which may be easily raised and cured among ourselves, we
do therefore earnestly recommend the raising and curing the same.
1774] FIRSI^ PROVINCIAL CONGRESS. 65
I7tli. In or<ler tlie more olfprtiially to carry these resolutions into
effect, we do earnestly recoiuinend that a society or societies be estab-
lished for the purposes of introducing and establishing such arts and
marmfactiires as may bo useful to this people, and are not yet introduc-
ed, and the more etiectually establishing such as we already have
among us.
18th. We do recommend to the inhabitants of this province to make
use of our own manufactures, and those of our sister colonies, in pre-
ference to all other manufactures.
Afternoon.
The order of the day was moved for.
RrsufiufI, That Doct. Church, Mr. Wheeler, and Doct. Holten, be a
committee to count and sort the votes for two general officers, and that
the Congress vote for the officers separately.
The Congress then proceeded to bring in their votes for a general
officer ; the committee having sorted and counted the same, reported
that Col. Thomas was chosen.
The Congress then proceeded to bring in their votes for one other
general officer ; the committee having counted and sorted the same,
reported that Col. William Heath was chosen.
IIThen the|| Congress adjourned till to-morrow morning, ten o'clock.
Friday, December 9, 1774, A. M.
The committee appointed to inquire into the sufficiency of the bond-
men procured by the receiver general, reported that they had attended
[to] that service, and that the gentlemen he had engaged as his H'bond-
men were in their opinion a very ample security|| for the sum men-
tioned.
Ordered, That Mr. Sullivan, Mr. Pickering, and Mr. Sayer, be a
committee to bring in a resolve relating to an address from the Baptists
to this Congress.
Ordered, [That] the report of the committee relative to the public
moneys, now in the hands of the constables and others, which was or-
dered to lie on the table, be now taken up ; which was taken up ac-
cordingly, and passed, and is as followeth, viz :
Whereas, this Congress, at their session in October last, taking into
consideration the alarming state of this colony, were, upon the most
mature deliberation, fully convinced, that to provide against the danger
to which it was then exposed by a standing army illegally posted in
Boston, and from time to time reinforced for the purposes of subvert-
ing our ancient constitution and the liberties of all North America, it
a llsecurity were amply sufficient. ||
9
66 FIRST PROVINCIAL CONGRESS. [Dec. 9,
was indispensably necessary that a considerable sum of money should
be immediately laid out for the just defence of this people ; and where-
as, by a resolve of the Congress, bearing date the 28th of said Octo-
ber, and published in the newspapers, it was, among other things, ear-
nestly recommended to the several towns and districts, that they would
cause to be paid into the hands of Henry Gardner, Esq., all the pro-
vince moneys due from them respectively, to supply the said pressing
exigencies of the colony ; and whereas, the danger H^whichlj then
threatened the province is still continued and daily increasing :
It is Resolved, and hereby most earnestly recommended to all
the inhabitants of the towns and districts aforesaid, as they regard
their own safety and the preservation of their inestimable rights and
liberties, that they cause the moneys aforesaid to be paid forthwith to
the said Henry Gardner, Esq., who has given bonds with sufficient
sureties, to the satisfaction of this Congress ; and that they cause their
respective proportion of the tax granted by the general court in June
last, and all other the province moneys due from them respectively, to
be supplied in some way that shall be more expeditious than the usual
mode of collecting the taxes, in order to prevent any delay in provid-
ing against the imminent dangers above mentioned. And the members
of the Congress are hereby desired to ||''use|| their utmost industry for
having this resolve speedily and punctually complied with ; and the
sheriffs and deputy sheriffs of the several counties, to pay the province
moneys in their respective hands as has been already recommended.
Ordered, That Col. Orne, Mr. Pickering, and Col. Cushing, be a
committee to bring in a resolve purporting the sense of this Congress
of the Continental Congress's association, as now voted, relative to
goods, wares, and merchandize, landed in England and Ireland, as well
as those which are manufactured in England and Ireland ; who report-
ed as followeth ; which was read and accepted, and ordered to be sent to
the committee at Marblehead, and published in the newspapers :
Resolved, That it is the clear opinion of this Congress, that the first
article in the association of the Continental Congress, extends to all
goods, wares, and merchandize, of the growth, production, or manu-
facture, of any part of Europe, or any other part of the world, import-
ed from Great Britain or Ireland, in case they have been entered and
cleared in any part of either of those kingdoms, as fully as to goods,
wares, and merchandize, of the growth, production and manufacture of
Great Britain or Ireland, and that the said first article ought to be so
a ||that.|| b l|oxert.||
1771] FIRST PROVINCIAL CONGRESS. 67
coiistriiod by all concerne<l, and in that luiiversal sense carried strictly
into execution.
Ordered, That Col. Heath, Col. Gerrish, Col, Gardner, Capt. Fuller,
Col. Thomas, Col. Oriio, and Col. Barnes, he a committee to take into
consideration a plan of military exercise, proposed by Capt. Timo-
thy Pickering.
Ordvrrd, That the petition of the officers in the northwesterly part
of the county of Worcester, be comnutted to the same committee, ||to||
report.
Afiernoon.
The committee appointed to bring in a resolve, relative to the pe-
tition of Rev. Mr. Backus, in behalf of the Baptists, reported ; which
was read and accepted, and the secretary directed to send him a copy
of the resolve, which [is] as followeth, viz :
On reading the memorial of the Rev. Isaac Backus, agent to the
Baptist churches in this government. Resolved, That the establishment
of civil and religious liberty, to each denomination in the province, is
the sincere wish of this Congress ; but being by no means vested with
powers of civil government, whereby they can redress the grievances
of any person whatsoever, they therefore recommend to the Baptist
churches, that, when a general assembly shall be convened in this colo-
ny, they lay the real grievances of said churches before the same, when
and where their petition will most certainly meet with all that attention
due to the memorial of a denomination of christians so well disposed
to the public w'eal of their country.
Ordered, That Mr. Stickney, Col. Gardner, Col. Pomeroy, Col.
Thayer, and Mr. Wheeler, be a committee to wait on the Rev. Doct.
Appleton, and return him the thanks of this Congress for his services
as chaplain during this session.
Ordered, That Major Fuller, Capt. Brown, and Mr. Pigeon, be a
committee to wait on the proprietors of the meeting-house and return
them the thanks of the Congress for the use thereof.
The Congress then adjourned for half an hour.
Being met upon the adjournment, Mr. President brought into Con-
gress a letter from the committee of correspondence of the town of
Hardwick, with a number of papers enclosed, which were read ; the
Congress then ordered that Mr. Sullivan, Mr. Pickering, Col. Gardner,
Col. Mandell, and Col. Danielson, be a committee to take the same into
consideration and report in the morning.
IJThen the Congressll adjourned till nine o'clock to-morrow morning.
68 FIRST PROVINCIAL CONGRESS. [Dec. 10,
Saturday, December 10, 1774, A. M.
The committee ||appointed|| to take into consideration the letter and
papers enclosed, received from the committee of correspondence of
the town of Hardwick, reported ; which was read and accepted, and
ordered to be published in the public papers, and also the papers on
which the said report is founded. The report is as followeth, viz :
Whereas, it appears to this Congress, that one or more members of
the lately appointed unconstitutional council in this province, now re-
siding in Boston, has sent to the town of Hardwick, a paper purport-
ing [to be] an association to be entered into by those persons who
falsely assume the name of friends to government ;i calculated to coun-
(1) The following is the form of the association, intended for the signature of tlie royalists, pre-
pared, and sent by the Hon. Timothy Ruggles to the town of Hardwick, where he had resided until
his acceptance of the appointment of mandamus counsellor compelled him to seek refuge from pub-
lic indignation in Boston:
" We, the subscribers, being fully sensible of the blessings of good government on the one hand,
and convinced, on the other hand, of the evils and calamities attending on tyranny in all shapes,
whether exercised by one or many, and having lately seen, with great grief and concern, the distress-
ing efforts for a dissolution of all government, whereby our lives, liberties, and properties, are ren-
dered precarious, and no longer under the protection of the law : and apprehending it to be our in-
dispensable duty, to use all lawful means in our power for the defence of our persons and property
against all riotous and lawless violence and to recover, and secure the advantages which we are
entitled to have, from the good and wholesome laws of the government, do hereby associate, and
mutually covenant, and engage to and with each other, as follows, viz :
" 1. That we will, on all occasions, with our lives, and fortunes, stand by and assist each other
in the defence of life, liberty, and property, whenever the same shall be attacked or endangered by
any bodies of men, riotously assembled, upon any pretence or under any authority not warranted
by the laws of the land."
"2. That we will, upon all occasions, mutually support each other in the free exercise and en-
joyment of our undoubted right to liberty, in eating, drinking, buying, selling, communing and acting,
what, with whom, and as we please, consistent with tlie laws of God, and of the King."
"3. That we will not acknowledge, or submit to the pretended authority of any Congresses,
committees of correspondence, or other unconstitutional assemblies of men : but will, at the risk
of our lives, if need be, oppose the forcible exercise of all such authority."
"4. That we will, to the utmost of our power, promote, encourage, and, when called to it, en-
force obedience to tlie rightful authority of our most gracious sovereign, King George the Third,
and of his laws."
"5. That when the person or property of any one of us shall be invaded or threatened by any
committees, mobs, or unlawful assemblies, the others of us, will, upon notice received, forth-
with repair, properly armed, to the person whom, or place where such invasion or threatening shall
be, and will, to the utmost of our power, defend such person and his property, and, if need be, will
oppose and repel force with force."
" 6. That if any one of us shall unjustly and unlawfully be injured in his person or property, by
any such assemblies as before mentioned, the others of us will, unitedly, demand, and, if in our pow-
er, compel the offenders, if known, to make full reparation and satisfaction for such injury : and if
all other means of security fail we will have recourse to the natural law of retaliation."
"In witness of all which we hereto subscribe our names."
As the order of the ('ongress for the pulilication of those resolutions was not immediately execut-
ed, a copy was sent by the writer liiniself, to the printer of the Boston Evening Post, and inserted
in that paper, December 26, 1774, with a letter from General Ruggles, in which he writes thus :
" As many of the people for some time past have been arming themselves, it may not be amiss to
let them know, that their nunilxjr will not appear in the field so large as was imagined before it was
known that independence wat in contemplation ; since which, many have associated in divers parts
of the province to preserve their freedom and support government."
1774.] VIRST PROVINCIAL CONGRESS. 69
teract the salutary desifrn.s of the Continental and Provincial Congresses,
to deceive the people into agreements contrary to the wellare of this
country, and tending in its consequences to hinder an amicable accom-
modation with our mother country, the sole end of those Congresses,
and the ardent wish of every friend to America : it is therefore recom-
mended by this Congress to the several committees of correspondence
in this colony, that they give notice to the Provincial Congress, that
shall meet in this province on the first day of February next, and the
earliest notice to the public, of all such combinations, and of the per-
sons signing the same, if any should be enticed thereto, that their
names may be published to the world, their persons treated with that
neglect, and their memories transmitted to posterity with that ignominy,
wiiich such unnatural conduct must deserve.
The committee on the state of the province reported an address to
the inhabitants of Massachusetts Bay ; the report was considered in
paragraphs, and so passed, and was ordered to be printed in all the
Boston newspapers, and also in handbills, and a copy thereof sent to
all the towns and districts in the province, and is as followeth, viz :
To the Freeholders and other Inhabitants of the Towns and Districts
of Massachusetts Bay.
Friends and Brethren : At a time when the good people of this
colony were deprived of their laws, and the administration of justice,
civil and criminal ; when the cruel oppressions brought on their capi-
tal had stagnated almost all their commerce ; when a standing army
was illegally posted among us for the express purpose of enforcing sub-
mission to a system of tyranny ; and when the general court was, with
the same design, prohibited to sit ; we were chosen and empowered by
you to assemble and consult upon measures necessary for our common
safety and defence.
With much anxiety for the common welfare, we have attended this
service, and upon the coolest deliberation have adopted the measures
recommended to you.
We have still confidence in the wisdom, justice, and goodness of our
sovereign, as well as the integrity, humanity and good sense of the
nation ; and if we had a reasonable expectation that the truth of facts
would be made known in England, we should entertain the most pleas-
ing hopes that the measures concerted by the colonies jointly and sev-
erally, would procure a full redress of our grievances ; but we are con-
strained in justice to you, to ourselves, and posterity, to say, that the
incessant and unrelenting malice of our enemies has been so success-
70 FIRST PROVINCIAL CONGRESS. [Dec. 10.
ful as to fill the court and kingdom of Great Britain with falsehoods
and calumnies concerning us, and to excite the most bitter and ground-
less prejudices against us; that the sudden dissolution of parliament,
and' the hasty summons for a new election, gives us reason to appre-
hend that a majority of the house of commons will be again elected
under the influence of an arbitrary ministry ; and that the general
tenor of our intelligence from Great Britain, with the frequent rein-
forcements of the army and navy at Boston, excites the strongest jeal-
ousy that the system of colony administration, so unfriendly to the
protestant religion, and destructive of American liberty, is still to be
pursued and attempted with force to be carried into execution.
You are placed by Providence in [the] post of honor, because it is the
post of danger : and while struggling for the noblest objects, the liber-
ties of your country, the happiness of posterity, and [the] rights of hu-
man nature, the eyes not only of North America and the whole British
empire, but of all Europe, are upon you. Let us be therefore alto-
gether solicitous, that no disorderly behavior, nothing unbecoming our
characters as Americans, as citizens, and christians, be justly charge-
able to us.
Whoever, with a small degree of attention, contemplates the com-
merce between Great Britain and America, will be convinced that a
total stoppage thereof, will soon produce in Great Britain such danger-
ous effects, as cannot fail to convince the ministry, the parliament, and
people, that it is their interest and duty to grant us relief Whoever
considers the number of brave men inhabiting North America, will
know, that a general attention to military discipline must so establish
their rights and liberties, as, under God, to render it impossible for an
arbitrary ministry of Britain to destroy them. These are facts which
our enemies are apprized of, and if they will not be influenced by
principles of justice, to alter their cruel measures towards America,
these ought to lead them thereto. They, however, hope to effect by
stratagem what they may not obtain by power, and are using arts, by
the assistance of base scribblers, who undoubtedly receive their bribes,
and by many other means, to raise doubts and divisions throughout the
colonies.
To defeat their H^iniquitousH designs, we think it necessary for each
town to be particularly careful, strictly to execute the plans of the Con-
tinental and Provincial Congresses ; and while it censures its own in-
dividuals, counteracting those plans, that it be not deceived or diverted
from its duty by rumors, should any take place, to the prejudice of
a llwicked.ll
ITTl] riRST PROVINCIAL CONGRESS. 71
other cominuriities. Your Provincial Congresses, we have reason to
hope, will hold up tlie towns, if any should be so lost as not to act
their parts, and none can doubt that the Continental Congresses will rec-
tify errors should any take place in any colony through the subtilty of
our enemies. Surely no arguments can be necessary to excite you to
the most strict adherence to the American association, since the mi-
nutest deviation in one colony, especially in this, will probably be mis-
represented in the others, to discourage their general zeal and perse-
verance, which, however, we assure ourselves cannot be effected.
While the British ministry are suffered with so high a hand to tyran-
nize over America, no part of it, we presume, can be negligent in guard-
ing against the ravages threatened by the standing army now in Bos-
ton ; these troops will undoubtedly be employed in attempts to defeat
the association, which our enemies cannot but fear will eventually de-
feat them ; and so sanguinary are those our enemies, as we have
reason to think, so thirsty for the blood of this innocent people, who
are only contending for their rights, that we should be guilty of the
most unpardonable neglect should we not apprize you of your danger,
which appears to us imminently great, and ought attentively to be
guarded against. The improvement of the militia in general in the
art military has been therefore thought necessary, and strongly recom-
mended by this Congress. We now think that particular care should
be taken by the towns and districts in this colony, that each of the
minute men, not already provided therewith, should be immediately
equipped with an effective fire arm, bayonet, pouch, knapsack, thirty
rounds of cartridges and balls, and that they be disciplined three times
a week, and oftener, as opportunity may offer. To encourage these,
our worthy countrymen, to obtain the skill of complete soldiers, we
recommend it to the towns and districts forthwith to pay their own
minute men a reasonable consideration for their services: and in case
of a general muster, their further services must be recompensed by the
province. An attention to discipline the militia in general is, however,
by no means to be neglected.
With the utmost cheerfulness we assure you of our determination to
stand or fall with the liberties of America ; and while we humbly im-
plore the Sovereign Disposer of all things, to whose divine providence
the rights of his creatures cannot be indifferent, to correct the errors,
and alter the measures of an infatuated ministry, we cannot doubt of
his support even in the extreme difficulties which we all may have to
encounter. May all means devised for our safety by the General Con-
gress of America, and assemblies or conventions of the colonies, be
72 FIRST PROVINCIAL CONGRESS. [Dec. 10.
resolutely executed, and happily succeeded ; and may this injured peo-
ple be reinstated in the full exercise of their rights without the evils
and devastations of a civil war.
Ordered, That the members of the town of Boston, with the secre-
tary, be a committee to revise the doings of this Congress, and cause
such parts thereof, as they think fit should be published, to be printed
in a pamphlet, and a copy thereof be sent to every town and district in
this province.
The report of the committee on the state of the province, relative to
assuming civil government, [was] taken up, and ordered further to lie
on the taMe.
Ordered, That the members be enjoined to attend in the afternoon.
||Then the Congress|| adjourned to three o'clock this afternoon.
Afternoon.
The committee appointed to collect the several expenses which have
accrued to the Congress in this and a former session thereof, reported ;
which report was read and accepted, and the receiver general ordered
to pay and discharge the several demands therein mentioned.
Ordered, That the secretary be directed to furnish the committee of
safety with a number of attested copies of their appointment to that
trust.
Resolved, That a gentleman be appointed in each county, to apply to
the field officers of the regiments within the same, for the list of the
names of the field officers of each regiment, the number of other offi-
cers, and the number of the men therein, as well the minute men as
the common militia, and return the same unto Mr. Abraham Watson,
of Cambridge.
Accordingly, the following gentlemen were appointed : For the
County of Suffolk, Col. Heath ; Essex, Capt. Farley ; Middlesex,
Col. Smith; Hampshire, Col. Pomeroy ; Plymouth, Col. Warren ;
Barnstable, Daniel Davis, Esq. ; Bristol, Major Keith ; York, Mr.
Sullivan; Worcester, Capt. Bigelow; Cumberland, Mr. March;
Berkshire, Doct. Whiting ; Lincoln, Capt. Thompson ; Dukes Coun-
ty, Joseph Mayhew, Esq.
The committee on the state of the province reported : which report
was read and accepted ; and Ordered, That printed copies be sent to
the several committees of correspondence, and where there is no such
committee, to the selectmen in each town and district in the province ;
and that the same order be observed relative to the address to the in-
habitants of Massachusetts Bay, and that the members of the town of
1774.] FIRST PROVINCIAL CONGRESS. 73
Boston, and the secretary, disperse the same. The report is as follow-
eth, viz :
Inasniucli as many states have been tanght by fatal experience, that
powers delegated by the people lor long periods have been abused to
the endangering the public rights and liberties, and this Congress hav-
ing just reason to suppose that their constituents, the good people of
this province, when they appointed their present delegates, were not
apprehensive that the business necessary to be done would require their
attendance for any long time,
Resolved, That the adjournment of this Congress on the twenty-
ninth day of October last, was ordered and made from a due consider-
ation of the present exigencies of the public affairs, and the evident
necessity of farther deliberation thereon. And, whereas, for the reason
first mentioned, it is not expedient that there should be a further ad-
journment of this Congress ; therefore. Resolved, that after the busi-
ness necessary to be immediately despatched shall be finished, the Con-
gress be dissolved.
And this Congress being deeply impressed with a sense of the in-
creasing dangers which threaten the rights and liberties of the people
of this province with total ruin ; our adversaries being still indefatiga-
ble in their attempts to carry into execution their deep laid plans for
that wicked purpose : and considering the indispensable necessity that
an assembly of the province should be very frequently sitting to con-
sult and devise ||*measuresl| for their common safety ; therefore Resolv-
ed, That it be, and it is hereby earnestly recommended to the several
towns and districts in this province, that they each of them do forth-
with, elect and depute as many members as to them shall seem necessa-
ry and expedient, to represent them in a Provincial Congress, to be
held at Cambridge, on the first day of February next ensuing ; 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, as they
shall see cause, until the Tuesday next preceding the last Wednesday
of May next, and no longer ; to consult, deliberate and resolve upon such
farther 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 pos-
terity.
And considering the great uncertainty of the present times, and that
unexpected important events may take place, from whence it may be ab-
solutely necessary that the delegates who may be elected as above propos-
a llmeane.ll
10
74 FIRST PROVINCIAL CONGRESS. [Dec. 8, 1774,
ed should meet sooner than the day before mentioned, it is recommend-
ed to the several towns and districts, that they instruct and authorize
their said delegates, to assemble at Cambridge aforesaid, or any other
place, upon notice given them of the necessity thereof, by the dele-
gates that may be chosen by the towns of Charlestown, Cambridge,
Brookline, Roxbury and Dorchester, or the majority of them, in such
way as they shall judge proper.
And it is further recommended to the delegates to be elected, that
they conform themselves to such instructions.
Ordered, That the further consideration of the report of the com-
mittee appointed to take into consideration what allowance should be
made the delegates who attend the Continental Congress from this
province, be referred to the sitting of the next Provincial Congress.
The committee appointed to take into consideration a plan of milita-
ry exercise, proposed by Capt. Pickering, and also the petition of the
officers of the northwest part of the county of Worcester, reported ;
the report was read and accepted.
Ordered, That the expense of transmitting the address to the Cana-
dians be paid by this government.
The business necessary to be immediately transacted, being finished,
and the Congress having returned their thanks to the Hon. John Han-
cock, Esq., for his constant attendance and faithful services as presi-
dent during their session, dissolved. |j*||
a lithe same to convene again the first day of February next, conformably to the preceding re-
solve.n
JOURNAL
SECOND PROVINCIAL CONGRESS
Convened at Cambridge, Wednesday, Feb. 1, 1775.— Adjourned Thursday, Feb. 16.
Convened at Concord, Tuesday, March 22. — Adjourned Saturday, April 15.
Convened at Concord, Saturday, April 22. — Adjourned to Wulerloivn.
Convened at Watertoion, Saturday, April 22. — Dissolved May 29, 1775.
JOURNAL.
Record of the proceedings of a Provincial Congress of deputies
of the several towns and districts in the province of the Massachusetts
Bay, in New England, convened at Cambridge, on Wednesday, the
first day of February, A. D. 1775; with a list of the persons chosen
to represent them in the same.
COUNTY OF SUFFOLK.
Boston. — Hon. Thomas Gushing, Esq., Mr. Samuel Adams, Hon.
John Hancock, Esq., Doct. Joseph Warren, Doct. Benjamin Church,
Mr. Oliver Wendall, Mr. John Pitts.
Roxhury. — Col. William Heath, Capt. Aaron Davis.
Dorchester . — Capt. Ebenezer Withington.
Milton. — Capt. David Raw-son.
Braintrce. — Col. Joseph Palmer.
Weymouth. — Mr. Nathaniel Bailey.
Hingham and Cohassct. — Benjamin Lincoln, Esq.
Dcdham. — Hon. Samuel Dexter, Esq., Mr. Abner Ellis.
Medfield. — Mr. Moses Bullen.
Wrcntham. — Mr. Jabez Fisher, [Mr. Lemuel Kollock, Mr. Samuel
Lethbridge.]
Brooklinc. — Capt. Benjamin White.
Necdham. — Capt. Eleazer Kingsbury.
Stoughton. — Mr. Thomas Crane.
Stoughtonham. — Mr. Job Swift.
Mcdicay. — Capt. Jonathan Adams.
BclUngham. — [Mr. Stephen Metcalf.]
Hull— [^one.]
Walpok.—Ur. Enoch Ellis.
Chelsea. — Mr. Samuel Watts.
COUNTY OF ESSEX.
Salem. — Mr. John Pickering, Mr. Richard Manning, [Mr. Jonathan
Ropes, Jun.]
Danvers. — Doct Samuel Holten.
78 SECOND PROVINCIAL CONGRESS. [Feb. 1,
Ipswich. — Col. Michael Farley.
Neichuryport. — Capt. Jonathan Greenleaf, Mr. Stephen Cross, Tris-
tram Dalton, Esq.
Newhury. — Joseph Gerrish, Esq.
MarftZe/teaf/.— Jeremiah Lee, Esq., Col. Azor Orne, Mr. Elbridge
Gerry.
Lynn. — Col. John Mansfield.
Andovcr. — Mr. Samuel Osgood, Jun.
Beverly. — Capt. Josiah Batchelder.
Rowley. — Mr. Nathaniel Mighill.
Salisbury. — Mr. Samuel Smith.
Gloucester. — Capt. Peter Coffin, Mr. Samuel Whittemore.
Topsjield. — Capt. Samuel Smith.
Boiford. — Major Asa Perley.
Ameshury. — Isaac Merrill, Esq.
Bradford. — Col. Daniel Thurston.
Haverhill. — Nathaniel Peaslee Sargent, Esq., Mr. Jonathan Web-
ster, Jun.
Wenham. — Mr. Benjamin Fairfield.
Middleton. — Capt. Archelaus Fuller.
Manchester. — [None.]
Methuen. — Mr. John Bodwell.
COUNTY OF MIDDLESEX.
Cambridge. — Col. Thomas Gardner, Mr. Abraham Watson, Jun.
Charlestotvn. — Mr. Nathaniel Gorham, Mr. Richard Devens, David
Cheever, Esq.
Watcrtown. — Capt. Jonathan Browne.
Woburn. — Mr. Samuel Wyman.
Concord. — Col. James Barrett.
Neicton. — Abraham Fuller, Esq , Mr. Edward Durant.
Reading. — Mr. John Temple.
Malboroitgh. — Mr. Peter Bent.
Billerica. — William Stickney, Esq.
Framingham. — Capt. Josiah Stone.
Lexington. — Mr. Jonas Stone.
Chelmsford. — Mr. Simeon Spaulding.
Sherburne. — Mr. Benjamin Fasset, Mr. Richard Sanger.
Sudbury. — Mr. Thomas Plympton.
Maiden. — Capt. Ebenezer Harnden, Capt. John Dexter.
Weston.— Co\. Braddyl Smith.
lT7r>.] SECOND PROVTNCIAI. CONGRESS. 79
Mfdford. — Mr. Benjamin Hall, Mr. Stephen Hall, :?d.
Lift/itoii. — Mr. Abel Jewett.
Iliiplvintdii. — [None.]
Wcstford. — Capt. Joseph Reed.
Waltliam. — Jonas Dix, E.sq.
Stow. — Henry Gardner, Esq.
Gruton. — Col. James Prescot.
Shirlnj. — Capt. Francis Harris.
Prppo'cl. — Capt. Edmund Bancroft.
Townshend. — Mr. Israel Hobart.
Ashbi/. — [None.]
Stoiuham. — Capt. Samuel Sprague.
Wilmington. — Mr. Timothy Walker.
Natick. — [None.]
Dracut. — Mr. Peter Coburn.
Bedford. — John Reed, Esq.
HolUston. — Col. Abner Perry.
Tackesbnry. — Mr. Jonathan Browne.
Dunstable. — John Tyng, Esq., James Tyng, Esq.
Acton. — Mr. Josiah Hayward.
Lincoln. — Major Eleazer Brooks.
COUNTY OF HAMPSHIRE.
Springfield. — Mr. William Pynchon, Jun., [Mr. John Hale, Mr.
Moses Field.]
Wilhraham.- — Major John Bliss.
West Springfield. — Mr. Jonathan White, Doct. Chauncy Brewer.
Northampton. — Hon. Joseph Hawley, Esq., Col. Seth Pomeroy.
Southampton. — Major Elias Lyman.
Haaley. — [None.]
South Hadley. — Mr. Noah Goodman.
Amherst. — Mr. Nathaniel Dickerson, Jun.
W'illiamsburgh. — Mr. Russell Kellogg.
Granby. — [None.]
ffiatfield. — Mr. John Dickerson, Mr. Perez Graves.
'Westfield. — Col. John Moseley, Col. Elisha Parks.
( Deer/eW.— [Mr. David Field, Mr. David Welles.]
Greenfield. — Mr. Samuel Hinsdale.
Shelburne. — [None.]
Conway. — [Mr. Daniel Denham.]
Sunderland. — [None.]
80 SECOND PROVINCIAL CONGRESS. [Feb. 1,
Montague. — [None.]
Northfield. — Mr. Ebenezer Jones.
Brimfidd, [South Brinifidd and Monsoji.— Col Timothy Danielson.]
Pelham. — [None.]
Grceiuoidi. — [None.]
Blanford. — [None.]
Palmer. — [None.]
Granville. — [None.]
New Salem. — Mr. William Page, Jan.
Belchertoion. — Col. Samuel Howe.
Colrain. — Mr. Thomas Bell.
Ware. — [None.]
Warwick. — Capt. Samuel Williams.
Bernardston. — [None.]
Murraysfield. — Capt. Malcom Henry.
Charlemont. — Mr. Samuel Taylor.
Shuteshury. — [None.]
Chesterfield.— Mr. Benjamin Mills, Major Ezra May.
^s/j/jc/f/.— [None.]
Worthington. — [None.]
Ludloiv. — Capt. Joseph MJUer.
[Whately. — Mr, Elisha Tracy.]
COUNTY OF PLYMOUTH.
Plymouth. — Hon. James Warren, Esq., Mr. Isaac Lo^hrop.
Scituate. — Nathan Cushing, Esq., Mr. Barnabas Little. ".
Duxhury. — Mr. George Partridge.
Marshfield. — [Mr. Benjamin White.]
Bridgcivater. — Col. Edward Mitchell, Major Richard Perkins?.-
Middlehorough. — Mr. Joshua White.
Rochester. — [None.]
Plytnpton. — [Deac. Samuel Lucas.] ^
Pembroke. — Major Jeremiah Hall.
Kingston. — John Thomas, Esq. \,
Hanover. — Col. Joseph Cushing.
Abington. — Capt. Woodbridge Browne.
Halifax. — Mr. Ebenezer Tomson.
COUNTY OF BARNSTABLE.
Barnstable. — Daniel Davis, Esq.
r75.] SECOND PROVINCIAL CONGRESS. 81
Sandwir/i. — [None.]
Yarmoutlt. — Capt. Elijah Basset.
Eastham. — Mr. Naaman Holbrook.
Wrliptt.— [None.]
Harwich. — Mr. Benjamin Freeman.
Folmoiith. — [None.]
Chatham. — [None.]
Truro. — Mr. Benjamin Atkins.
Provincctown. — [None.]
COUNTY OF BRISTOL.
Taunton. — Robert Treat Paine, Esq.
Rehohoth. — Major Timothy Walker, Capt. Thomas Carpenter.
Swanscy. — Jerathmiel Bowers, Esq.
Dlghton. — Elnathan Walker, Esq., Doct. William Baylies.
Dartmouth. — Benjamin Aiken, Esq.
Norton and Mansfield. — Capt. William Holmes.
Attlehorough. — Col. John Daggett.
JFrectown. — Mr. Thomas Durfee.
Raynham. — Mr. Benjamin King.
Easton. — Capt. Eliphalet Leonard.
Berkley. — [None.]
COUNTY OF YORK.
York. — Capt. Daniel Bragdon.
Kittery. — Edward Cutt, Esq., Charles Chauncy, Esq.
Wells. — Mr. Ebenezer Sayer.
Berwick. — Mr. Ichabod Goodwin, Jun.
Arundel. — Mr. John Hovey.
Biddcford. — James Sullivan, Esq.
Pepperrellhorough. — [None.]
DUKES COUNTY.
Edgarton. — [None.]
Chilmark. — [None.]
Tishury. — [None.]
[COUNTY OF] NANTUCKET.
Sherburne . — [None. ]
11
83 SECOND PROVINCIAL CONGRESS. [Feb. 1,
COUNTY OF WORCESTER.
Worcester. — Capt. Timothy Bigelow.
Lancaster. — Col. Asa Whitcoinb, Doct. William Dunsmore.
Mendon. — Doct. William Jennison, Mr. Edward Rawson.
Woodstock. — [None.]
Brookfield. — Jedediah Foster, Esq.
Oxford. — Col. Ebenezer Learned.
Charlton. — Capt. Jonathan Tucker.
Sutton. — Capt. Henry King, Mr. Amos Singletary.
Leicester and Spencer. — Col. Joseph Henshaw.
Paxton. — [None.]
Rutland. — Mr. Jonas Howe.
Hutchinson. — Mr. John Mason.
Oakham. — Capt. Isaac Stone.
Huhhardston. — Capt. John Clark.
New Braintrce. — Capt. James Wood.
Southborougli. — Capt. Josiah Fay.
Westborough. — Capt. Stephen Maynard, Doct. James Hawse.
Northborough. — Mr. Levi Brigham.
Shrewsbury . — Hon. Artemas Ward, Esq.
Lunenburgh. — Doct. John Taylor.
Fitchburgh. — Capt. David Goodridge.
Uxbridge. — Mr. Benjamin Green.
Harvard. — Mr. Oliver Whitney.
Dudley. — [None.]
Bolton. — Capt. Samuel Baker.
Upton. — Mr. Abiel Sadler.
Sturbrndge. — Capt. Timothy Parker.
Leominster. — Mr. Israel Nichols.
Hardivick. — Col. Paul Mandel.
Holden. — Mr. John Child.
Douglas. — Mr. Samuel Jennison.
Grafton. — Mr. John Sherman.
Petersham. — Col. Jonathan Grout.
Royalston. — Mr. Nahum Green.
Westminster. — Mr. Nathan Wood.
Athol.—Mr. William Bigelow.
Templeton. — Mr. Jonathan Baldwin.
Princeton. — Mr. Moses Gill.
Ashburnham. — [None.]
Winchendon. — [None.]
Western. — Simeon Dwight. Esq.
177-,.] SECOND PROVINCIAL CONGRESS. 88
COUNTY OF CUMBERLAND.
Falmouth and Cape Elizabeth. — Mr. Samuel Freeman.
North Yarmouth. — [None.]
Scarborough. — Mr. Samuel March.
Brunswick and HarpswcU. — Col. Samuel Thompson.
Gorham. — Capt. Bryant Morton.
Windham [None.]
Pcrsontown. — [None.]
COUNTY OF LINCOLN.
Pownahborough. — [None.]
Georgetown. — Capt. Samuel McCobb.
Newcastle. — [None.]
Topsham. — Mr. John Merril.
Bowdoinham. — Capt. Samuel Harnden.
Wooboich. — [None.]
Gardnerston. — Mr. Joseph North.
Yassalborough. — Mr. Remington Hobby.
Halloirell — [None.]
Winslow. — [None.]
Winthrop. — Mr. Ichabod How.
COUNTY OF BERKSHIRE.
Sheffield and Great Barrington. — Col. John Fellows.
Egremont and Alford. — Doct. William Whiting.
Stockbridge. — Mr. Samuel Browne.
NeiD Malborough. — Doct. Ephraim Guiteau.
Richmond. — Capt. Elijah Browne.
Lenox. — John Paterson, Esq.
Pittsfield and Partridgejield. — John Browne, Esq.
Tyringham. — [None.]
Lanesborough. — [None.]
Sandisfield. — Mr. David Deming.
Williamstown. — Mr. Samuel Kellog.
Becket. — [None.]
Gageborough. — Capt. William Clark.
Moved, That a president be appointed.
Ordered, That Doct. Holten, Mr. Cushing, and Doct. Baylies be a
committee t(5 count and sort the votes for a president. The Congress
then proceeded to bring in their votes for a president ; and the com-
84 SECOND PROVINCIAL CONGRESS. [Feb. 2,
mittee having counted the same, reported that the Hon. John Hancock,
Esq. was unanimously chosen.
Benjamin Lincoln was appointed secretary.
Ordered, That Hon. John Hancock, Esq., Major Hawley, Hon. Mr.
Gushing, [of Boston,] Mr. Adams, Col. Warren, Mr. Paine, Mr. Pitts,
Doct. Holten, Col. Heath, Col. Gerrish, Mr. Cushing of Scituate,
Hon. Col. Ward, and Col. Gardner, be a committee to take into con-
sideration the state and circumstances of the province.
Adjourned till ten o'clock to-morrow morning.
Thursday, February 2, 1775, A, M.
Ordered, That Col. Lee, Col. Orne, Col. Palmer, Mr. Gerry, Col.
Foster, and Col. Bowers, be joined to the committee on the state of
the province.
Ordered, That Col. Gardner, Col. Palmer, and Mr. Watson, be a
committee to wait on the Rev. Doct. Appleton, and desire his attend-
ance on this Congress, and [that he would] officiate as l|theirl| chaplain
during the session thereof
The committee appointed to wait on the Rev. Doct. Appleton and
desire that he would officiate as chaplain to this Congress, reported
that they had attended that service, and that the Doctor would officiate
as chaplain agreeably to the desire of this Congress.
Ordered, That Mr. Aiken, Col. Gerrish, Major Fuller, and Doct.
Holten, be monitors to this Congress.
Ordered, That, in returning the Congress, the monitors observe the
following divisions, viz : That the pews on the right of the desk be
one division ; on the left, another ; the men's body seats, and the pews
adjoining, a third ; the women's body seats, and the pews adjoining,
the other.
Then adjourned to three o'clock in the afternoon.
Afternoon.
Met and adjourned till to-morrow morning, ten o'clock.
Friday, [-] Februaiy 3, 1775, A. M.
Ordered, That Mr. Pickering, Capt. Greenleaf, and Mr. Lothrop, be
a committee to inspect the journals of the last Congress, and ||''extractl|
therefrom what relates to the public taxes and the militia, and cause
the same to be printed in a pamphlet, and a copy thereof to be sent to
each town and district in the province.
11 [morning ] b Unbstract ||
ITT.I.] SECOND PROVINCIAL CONGRESS. 86
A ll'votcll from the coimiiittee ot" c()rrcs|)oii(leiice for the town of
Hostt)ii and otiier coniinittccs from ii larire number of towns in the vi-
cinity thereof, setting lorth thai several inlialtitants of tlio town of Bos-
ton and several other towns in this province, are constantly employed
in diverse kinds of works for the army now in Boston, and in supply-
inif them witii lumber, &c., and every other article of field equipage,
to (lualify them to take the field in the spriiifr, &:-c. ;
Rea<l, and Ordered, that Col. Prescot, Capt. Carpenter, Col. Cushing,
iMr. Fisher, Mr. Partridge, Col. Thomas, and Doct. Taylor, be a com-
Miittee to take the said vote into consideration and report thereon.
Then Congress adjourned till to-morrow morning ten o'clock.
Saturday, February 4, 1775, A. M.
Resolved, That all the debates and resolutions of this Congress be
kept as an entire secret, unless ||theirl| special leave be first l|^had|| for
disclosing the same.
Resolved, That the vote of yesterday, relative to publishing in a
pamphlet some of the doings of the late Provincial Congress, be re-
considered, so far as it relates to publishing the resolve respecting the
militia.
Ordered, That Mr. Sullivan, Mr. Partridge, Daniel Davis, Esq., and
Mr. Sayer, be added to the committee appointed to publish in a pamph-
let some of the doings of the late Congress, and that the same com-
mittee prepare an address to the inhabitants of this province, recom-
mending to them immediately to pay all their province tax to Henry
Gardner, Esq., and to carry the resolves of the late Congress relative
to the militia into execution.
Upon a motion Ordered, that the secretary be directed to write to
Col. Roberson, desiring him to deliver the four brass field pieces, and
the two brass mortars now in his hands, the property of the province,
to the order of the committee of safety.
The committee appointed to take into consideration the vote from
the committee of correspondence of the town of Boston and others in
the vicinity, &.C., reported; the consideration of the report referred
till to-morrow morning, ten o'clock.
IITheii theCongressll adjourned till next Monday morning, ten o'clock.
Monday, February 6, 1775, A. M.
Order of the day moved for.
The report of the committee on the vote from the committee of
allreiolvei; b ||obt'jiMeti.||
86 SECOND PROVINCIAL CONGRESS. [Feb. 7,
correspondence of the town of Boston, &c., read ; after some debate
thereon, Ordered, that it be recommitted for amendments.
Resolved, That the Hon. John Hancock, and Thomas Cashing, Esq.,
Mr. Samuel Adams, John Adams, Robert Treat Paine, Esq., appoint-
ed by the late Provincial Congress, to represent this colony, on the
10th of May next, or sooner if necessary, at the American Congress
to be held at Philadelphia, be, and they hereby are authorized and em-
powered, with the delegates from the other American Colonies, to ad-
journ from time to time, and place to place, as they shall judge neces-
sary ; and to continue in being as delegates for this colony, until the
thirty-first day of December next ensuing, and no longer.
A petition of Abijah Browne and others, setting forth the irregular-
ity of the choice of Jonas Dix, Esq., to represent the town of Wal-
tham in this Congress, with a counter petition signed by Leonard Wil-
liams and others, were read : whereupon, it was Resolved, that in case
the averments in Browne's petition mentioned [*were] true, [they] are
not sufficient to disqualify Jonas Dix, Esq., member from Waltham,
from having a seat in this Congress.
A petition of John Sawyer and others of Rowley, in the county of
Essex, setting forth that they have raised a troop of horse, praying the
aid of this Congress that they may be established, &c., [was] read and
committed to Mr. Sullivan, Col. Grout, and Major Fuller, to consider
of and report thereon.
AAemooii.
Resolved, That the secretary have power to adjourn this Congress in
the absence of the president.
llThen the Congress|| was adjourned till to-morrow morning, ten
o'clock.
Tuesday, February 7, 1775, A, M.
The committee on the vote of the committee of correspondence of
the town of Boston and otlier.s, having amended their report, again re-
ported, which was considered and accepted, and is as followeth :
Whereas, it appears to this Congress, that certain persons are em-
ployed in diverse kinds of works for the army now stationed in Boston,
for the purpose of carrying into execution the late acts of parliament,
and in supplying them with iron for waggons, canvas, tent poles, and
other articles of field equipage, whereby said army may be enabled to
take the field and distress the inhabitants of this country,
Therefore, Resolved, as the opinion of this Congress, and it is ac-
cordingly strongly recommended to the inhabitants of the several towns
H [if. ]
1"5.| SECOND PROVINCIAL CONGRESS. 87
and distrirts of" this proviiico, tliiit, should any person or persons pre-
sume to supply llie troops now stationed at Boston or elsewhere iti said
l)rovincc, witli tind)er, hoards, spars, j)iekets, tentpoles, canvas, bricks,
iron, waggons, carts, carriages, entrenching tools, or any materials for
making any of the carriages or implements aforesaid ; with horses or
oxen for draught ; or any other materials whatever, which may enable
them to annoy, or in any maimer distress said inhabitants, he or they
||so offendingll shall be held in the highest detestation, and deemed in-
veterate enemies to America, and ought to be prevented and opposed
by all reasonable means whatever.
And whereas, it appears to this Congress, that large quantities of
straw will be wanted by the inhabitants of this province, in case we
should 1)0 driven to the hard necessity of taking up arms in our own
defence, therefore. 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.
And it is strongly recommended by this Congress, to the committees
of correspondence and inspection in the several towns and districts in
this province to see that the above resolves be strictly and faithfully
adhered to, till otherwise ordered by this or some other Provincial Con-
gress, or house of representatives.
Ordered, That the above resolves be published in all the newspapers
in this province, and that [Hhey] be attested by the secretary.
Ordered, That Mr. Fisher, Doct. Church, Mr. Bailey, Doct. War-
ren, and Col. Thomas, be a committee to take into consideration the
account of the late delegates from this province who attended the Con-
tinental Congress, and report what they be allowed for their expenses,
and for their time while absent on the business of the province ; and
also [to] devise some method how the money shall be procured to dis-
charge the same ; and also how the money shall be procured to enable
our p»resent delegates appointed to attend the American Congress to re-
funo their expenses.
The committee appointed to draught an address to the inhabitants of
thife province, accompanying the resolve which is ordered to be pub-
lished relative to the province taxes being paid to Henry Gardner,
Ejsq., reported; read and considered in paragraphs; Ordered to be re-
(^ommitted for amendments, and that Doct. Church, and Doct. Warren,
be added to the committee.
/ IIThen the Congressj] adjourned till three o'clock, P. M.
f
; li [it.]
88 SECOND PROVINCIAL CONGRESS. [Feb. 8,
Afternoon.
In consideration of the coldness of the season, and that the Con-
gress sit in a house without fire, Resolved, That all those members
who incline thereto may sit with their hats on while in Congress.
The committee on the state of the province reported an addition to
the report of the late Provincial Congress, relative to the power of the
committee of safety, and general officers ; after some debate thereon it
was referred for farther consideration till to-inorrow morning, ten
o'clock.
Resolved, That at ten o'clock to-morrow morning, the Congress will
come to the choice of some person to serve on the committee of safe-
ty, instead of Norton Quincy, Esq., who declined accepting that trust.
l|Then the Congress|| adjourned till to-morrow morning, nine o'clock.
Wednesday, Februaiy 8, 1775, A. M.
The committee appointed to prepare an address to the inhabitants
of this province, having amended, again reported the same ; after some
consideration thereon, it was ordered to be recommitted for further
amendments.
Upon a motion made by Mr. Hall, that he might be excused from
serving any longer on the committee of supplies, in consideration of
his ill state of health, the question was put whether he be excused for
the reason mentioned, and passed in the affirmative.
Resolved, That at three o'clock this afternoon, the Congress will
come to the choice of some person to serve on the committee of sup-
plies instead of Mr. Hall, excused.
The order of the day was moved for ; accordingly, the Congress re-
sumed the consideration of the report of the committee, relative to the
power of the committee of safety, and the power of the general offi-
cers ; after some debate thereon, it was referred for farther considera-
tion, to the afternoon.
Afierwoon.
The Congress resumed the consideration of the same report, which
was recommitted for amendments proposed.
Ordered, That, as Doct. Warren, and Doct. Church are absent, that
Col. Dwight, and Col. Coffin be added to the committee, on the account
of the late delegates from this province to the Continental Congress.
The committee appointed to report an address to the inhabitants of
this province, having amended their draught, reported; which was'
again ordered to be recommitted for amendments.
A petition of Boice and Clark, praying that this Congress will take
1775.] SECOND PROVINCIAL CONGRESS. 89
some step for the encoiiraireineiit of collectinir of linen raws ni their
respective towns [was] read and Ordrrcd, tliat Mr. riorhain, Mr. Bige-
low, anil Mr. Freeman, be a committee to bring in a resolve recom-
niendinir the savinjr of linoii ra^s, accordini^ to the prayer of the
petition.
Resolved, That the Congress will now proceed to the choice of some
person to serve on the committee of safety, in the place of Norton
Q.uincy, Esq., who declined serving thereon.
Ordered, That Mr. Pitts, Major Fuller, and Doct. Holten, be a com-
mittee to count and sort the votes for a person to serve on the commit-
tee of safety, in the stead of Norton Q,uincy, Esq., who declined serving
thereon.
The Congress then proceeded to bring in their votes for a person to
serve on the committee of safety : the committee having sorted and
counted the same, reported that Mr. Jabez Fisher was chosen.
Resolved, That to-morrow morning at ten o'clock, the Congress will
come to the choice of some person to serve on the committee of sup-
plies, instead of Mr. Hall, who hath been excused.
||The Congress then|| adjourned till to-morrow morning, nine o'clock.
Thursday, February 9, 1775, A. M.
The report of the committee relative to the power of the committee
of safety, and the power of the general officers, being amended, was
accepted, and is as followeth, viz :
Resolved, That the Hon. John Hancock, Esq., Doct. Joseph War-
ren, Doct. Benjamin Churchy Jun., Mr. Richard Devens, Capt. Benja-
min White, Col. Joseph Palmer, Mr. Abraham Watson, Col. Azor
Orne, Mr. John Pigeon, Col. William Heath, and Mr. Jabez Fisher,
be and hereby are appointed a committee of safety, to continue until
the farther order of this or some other Congress, or house of represen-
tatives of this province ; whose business and duty it shall be, most
carefully and diligently to inspect and observe all and every such per-
son or persons as shall at any time attempt to carry into execution by
force, an act of the British parliament, entitled " an act for the better
regulating the government of the province of the Massachusetts Bay,
in New England ;" or who shall attempt to carry into execution by
force, another act of the British parliament, entitled " an act for the
hnpartial administration of justice, in the cases of persons questioned
for an act done by them in the execution of the law, or for the sup-
pression of riots and tumults, in the province of the Massachusetts
Bay :" which said committee, or any five of them, provided always
12
90 SECOND PROVINCIAL CONGRESS. Feb. 9,
that not more than one of the said five shall be an inhabitant of the
town of Boston, shall have power, and they are hereby empowered
and directed, when they shall judge that such attempt or attempts are
made, to alarm, muster, and cause to be assembled with the utmost ex-
pedition, and completely armed, accoutred and supplied with provisions
sufficient for their support in their march to the place of rendezvous,
such and so many of the militia of this province, as they shall judge
necessary for the end and purpose of opposing such attempt or at-
tempts, and at such place or places as they shall judge proper ; and
them to discharge as the safety of the province shall permit.
And this Congress doth most earnestly recommend to all the officers
and soldiers of the militia in this province, who shall from time to
time during the commission of the said committee, receive any call or
order from the said committee, to pay the strictest obedience thereto,
as they ||"|| regard the liberties and lives of themselves and the people
of this province — any order or orders of any former Congress varying
therefrom notwithstanding.
Resolved, That the Hon. Jedediah Prebble, Esq., Hon. Artemas
Ward, Esq., Col. Seth Pomeroy, Col John Thomas, and Col. William
Heath, be and they hereby are appointed general officers ; whose busi-
ness and duty it shall be, with such and so many of the militia of this
province, as shall be assembled by order of the committee of safety,
effectually to oppose and resist such attempt or attempts as shall be
made for carrying into execution by force, an act of the British Parlia-
ment, entitled " an act for the better regulating the government of the
province of the Massachusetts Bay in New England," or who shall at-
tempt the carrying into execution by force, another act of the British
parliament, entitled *' an act for the more impartial administration of
justice in the cases of persons questioned for any act done by them in
the execution of the law, or for the suppression of riots and tumults, in
the province of the Massachusetts Bay," so long as the said militia
shall be retained by the committee of safety and no longer ; and the
said general officers shall, while in the said service, command, lead
and conduct, in such opposition, in the order in which they are above
named, any order or orders of any former Congress varying therefrom,
notwithstanding.
The order of the day was moved for.
Upon a motion. Ordered, That a committee be appointed to count
and sort the votes for the choice of a person to serve on the commit-
tee of supplies in the place of Mr. Hall, who hath been excused ; ac-
a ||3hall.||
1775. SECOND PROVINCIAL CONGRESS. 91
cordinwly Mr. Sayer, Mr. Lothroj), and dipt. Greenleaf, were ap-
pointed.
The Congress then proceeded to bring in their votes for a person to
serve on the committee of supplies; after counting and sorting the
same, the committee rej)orted that Mr. Manning was chosen. Upon a
motion made by Mr. Manning, the question was put whether he be ex-
cused from serving on the committee of supplies, and pa.ssed in the af-
firmative. The Congress then proceeded to bring in their votes for a
person to serve in his place, and, after counting and sorting the same,
the committee reported that Mr. Elbridge Gerry was chosen.
Ordrri'd, That during the debates of the Congress, the members
thereof be seated in their proper places.
A number of letters, said to be from gentlemen in England, were
read ; upon a motion. Ordered, that they be committed to the com-
mittee on the state of the province, to take them into consideration
and report.
The committee appointed to prepare an address to the inhabitants
of this province, having amended their report, the same was read, con-
sidered and accepted, and ordered to be attested and added to the
pamphlet directed to be printed by this Congress, and is as followeth,
viz :
To the Inhabitants of the Massachusetts Bay.
Friends and Fellow Sufferers : — When a people entitled to that
freedom, which your ancestors have nobly preserved, as the richest in-
heritance of their children, are invaded by the hand of oppression,
and trampled on by the merciless feet of tyranny, resistance is so far
from being criminal, that it becomes the christian and social duty of
each individual.
While you see the lives of your fellow men, in other nations, sported
with and destroyed, and their estates confiscated by their prince, only
to gratify the caprice, ambition, or avarice of a tyrant, you ought to
entertain and cultivate in your minds, the highest gratitude to the Su-
preme Being, for his having placed you under such a form of govern-
ment, as, when duly administered, gives the meanest peasant the same
security in his life and property, as his sovereign has in his crown.
This constitution of government secures to each one subject there-
to, such an entire property in his inheritance and the fruit of his in-
dustry, that they cannot be taken from him without his personal or
representative consent ; and as the evidence of entire property arises
from the uncontrollable power of disposing, when your estates shall be
brought into such a situation, or under such a form of government, as
92 SECOND PROVINCIAL CONGRESS. [Feb. 9,
that they can be disposed of or granted by persons who are by no
means accountable to you therefor, you cease to have any thing more
than a licensed and precarious property in them.
Notwithstanding these principles have been warmly contended for
and nobly defended at the expense of much blood and treasure, by
your British ancestors, who have ever been seriously alarmed at the
least infringement on this branch of their happy privileges, the house
of commons there, over whom you have not the least control, and in
whose election you have no voice, have claimed and exercised the
power of granting your money without your consent ; and what ren-
ders the same more aggravated, is, that the money extorted from you,
is applied to the vile purpose of maintaining a set of men, who,
through depravity of mind, and cruelty of disposition, have been, and
still are, endeavoring to enforce certain acts of parliament, made with
express purpose to take from you your charter rights, and reduce you
to a state of misery, equal to that ever attendant on those, whose
prince has the sole disposal of their lives and properties.
Fleets, troops, and every implement of war, are sent into the prov-
ince, with apparent design to wrest from you that freedom which it is
your duty, even at the risk of your lives, to hand inviolate to posterity.
Those strides of tyranny have fixed the united attention of all
America; and, being greatly and justly alarmed, the wisdom of the
whole continent has been collected in that Congress, whose salutary
resolutions have pointed you to effectual means of redress, and the
execution of the plan projected by that honorable assembly, has been
warmly recommended to you by your former Provincial Congress.
The transactions of your former Congress, with regard to placing
the militia on such a footing as may serve to defend you from each act
of hostility that may be offered, have been caiefully transmitted to
you, and we rejoice to hear, that you have cheerfully paid the strictest
attention to them, and ardently wish that the same martial spirit which
so remarkably prevails among you may be encouraged and increased.
Though we deprecate a rupture with the mother state, yet we must
still urge you to every preparation for your necessary defence ; for, un-
less you exhibit to your enemies such a firmness as shall convince
them that you are worthy of that freedom your ancestors fled here to
enjoy, you have nothing to expect but the vilest and most abject sla-
very.
The foregoing sheets contain the resolutions of your former Con-
gress, respecting the improvement of your public monies at this criti-
cal juncture of your public affairs. Such is the alarming state of the
1775.] SECOND PROVINCIAL CONGRESS. 93
|)io\iii<"(\ tli;it llip ix'ci'ssitv ot" |)iiiirliiallv rornplviiiif with tlicsc re-
solves cMii, liv no means, need anv I'urtlier arj^nimeiit to stiimilatc there-
to, than what natiirallv arises from lacts under your constant ol)serva-
tion ; liut as necessary ptcparalions tor your defence require immedi-
ate sujjplies of money, duty mid taithlidness to you, coinj)el us to take
leave to iiint. that, should you l)e so unhappy as to be driven to un-
sheath the sword, in defence of your lives and properties, the having
|)roper magazines dulv prepared, may give that success which cannot
he expected without them.
Sulijects generally ])ay oliedience to the laws of the land, to avoid
the penalty that accrues on breach of them ; and on the same princi-
j)les we are assured, that, as you hitherto have, you will continue still
strictly to adhere to the resolutions of your several congresses ; for
we can conceive of no greater punishment for the breach of human
laws, than the misery that must inevitably follow your disregarding the
plans, that have, by your authority, with that of the whole continent,
been projected.
Your conduct hitherto, under the severest trials, has been worthy of
you as men and christians, and, notwithstanding the pains that have
been taken by your enemies, to inculcate the doctrines of non-resist-
ance and passive obedience, and, by every art, to delude and terrify
you, the whole continent of America has, this day, cause to rejoice in
your firmness. We trust you will still continue steadfast, and having
regard to the dignity of your characters as freemen, and those gener-
ous sentiments resulting from your natural and political connections,
you will never submit your necks to the galling yoke of despotism
prepared for you ; but with a proper sense of your dependance on
God, nobly defend those rights which Heaven gave, and no man ought
to take from us.
An address from the committee of correspondence of the town of
Scituate and others, showing that a number of his majesty's troops
are now stationed in the town of Marshfield, «S»6C. |pwas|| read :
Ordered, That Doct. Warren, Doct. Taylor, Col. Henshaw, Mr.
Watson, and Mr. Gill, be a committee to take the same into conside-
ration, and the papers accompanying it, and report.
Ordered, That Mr. Sullivan Mr. Pickering, and Capt. Greenleaf, be
a committee to bring in a resolve, empowering the committee of safety
to take into their hands the warlike stores, the property of the province.
Ordered, That Col. Thomas, Col. Heath, Hon. Col. Ward, Col.
a ||being.||
94 SECOND PROVINCIAL CONGRESS. [Feb. 9,
Potneroy, and Col. Gardner, be a committee to bring in a resolve, di-
recting how the ordnance in the province shall be used.
Afternoon.
The committee on the petition of John Sawyer and others, reported
by way of resolve, which report was ordered to lie on the table.
Ordered, That the several members who were appointed to make
return of the officers and number of the militia, and minute men, in
the several counties, be directed to comply with the said order as soon
as possible.
Upon a motion, Ordered, That Col. Paterson, Mr. Browne, of
Pittsfield, and Major Bliss, be a committee to report a resolve for the
publication of the names of those who have been appointed counsel-
lors by mandamus, and have refused to resign their appointments.
The committee on the accounts of the delegates from this province
to the Continental Congress, reported, which was accepted; and there-
upon Ordered, That Mr. Sullivan, Mr. Devens, and Mr. Gorham, be a
committee to repo.rt a resolve agreeably to the same.
The committee on the petition of Boice and Clark, reported, by
way of resolve, which was read and accepted, and is as followeth, viz :
Whereas, the encouragement of the manufactories of this country
will, at all limes, and more especially at this, be attended with the
most beneficial effects, and Messrs. Boice and Clark, having represent-
ed to this Congress, that they have, at a very considerable expense,
erected works at Milton, in this province, for the making paper, and
have not heretofore been able to obtain a sufficiency of rags to answer
their purpose, and in order to procure a larger quantity of that article,
have raised the price thereof;
Therefore, Resolved, That it be recommended, and it is by this
Congress accordingly recommended, to every family in this province,
to preserve all their linen, and cotton and linen rags, in order that a
Ipmanufacturej] so useful and advantageous to this country, may be
suitably encouraged : and it is also recommended to our several towns,
to take such farther measures for the encouragement of the manufac-
ture aforesaid, as they shall think proper.
||Then the Congress|| adjourned till to-morrow morning, 9 o'clock.
Friday, Februai7 10, 1775, A. M.
Ordered, That Mr. Devens, Mr. Watson, Col. Gardner, Col. Howe,
and Capt. Batchelder, be a committee to observe the motion of the
troops said to be on their road to this town.
a ||manufactory.||
17Tr>.] SECOND PROVINCIAL CONGRESS. 95
All ai)|)licatioii from Tliomas Lcf^ate, Es(|. was read. Ordrnd^Thai
It 1)1' committed : Accordingly Ordind, Tliat Mr. Pickering, Col.
Cushing, and Col. Farley, be a committee to take the same into con-
sideration.
Ordered, That Col. Palmer, Col. Cushing, and Mr. Cushing of
Scituate, be a committee to sit in the recess of this Congress, to pre-
pare all such rules and regulations, for the officers and men of the
constitutional army which may be raised in this province, as shall be
necessary for the good order thereof
The committee appointed l)y the late Provincial Congress, to esti-
mate the loss and damage which hath accrued to the province by the
operation of the Boston port bill and the act for altering the civil gov-
ernment of this province, reported ; the report ordered to be filed.
||The committee appointed to take into consideration how the ord-
nance should be disposed of, are directed to make report to the com-
mittee of safety.' II
The committee appointed to bring in a resolve relative to the pay-
ment of the late delegates to the Continental Congress, reported ; the
report was accepted, and is as followeth, viz :
Whereas, the account of expenses incurred by the Hon. Thomas
Cushing, Mr. Samuel Adams, John Adams, and Robert Treat Paine,
Esquires, in the execution of the trust reposed in them as representa-
tives of this province at the grand Continental Congress, held at Phil-
adelphia, in the months of September and October last, has been ex-
hibited to, and approved of, by this Congress, and there appears to be
due to the said delegates the sum of nine pounds, seventeen shillings,
and ten pence, lawful money, in order to discharge their said expenses,
and this Congress have voted, that the sum of fifty-six pounds [be paid]
to each of the aforesaid delegates, in order to compensate them for
their time spent in said service ;
Therefore, Resolved, That Henry Gardner, Esq., receiver general of
this province, be directed, and he is hereby accordingly directed, to
pay to the Hon. Thomas Cushing, Esq., the above sum of nine pounds,
seventeen shillings, and ten pence, for expenses, and the sum of fifty-
six pounds for his time spent in the service aforesaid ; and to Mr. Sam-
uel Adams, John Adams and Robert Treat Paine, Esquires, each, the
sum of fifty-six pounds, as a recompense for their time spent in said
service.
The same committee reported the following resolve, which was ac-
cepted, viz :
(1) This order i^ insortod in the copy of the journal ariionj llie proc?.'diiigi! of the afternoo.i session.
96 SECOND PROVINCIAL CONGRESS. [Feb. 10,
Whereas, the Hon. John Hancock, Hon. Thomas Cashing, Mr.
Samuel Adams, John Adams and Robert Treat Paine, Esquires, were,
by a former Provincial Congress, chosen and appointed a committee
of delegates, to meet the delegates from the other American colonies,
at Philadelphia, on the tenth day of May next, or sooner, if necessary;
and whereas, it is ordered by this Congress, that the sum of one hun-
dred pounds be allowed and paid each of them, to enable them to per-
form said journey ; therefore, ||-Kfif>/i'ff/, That Henry Gardner, Esq. re-
ceiver general of this province, be, and hereby is ordered and directed,
to pay each of the said committee of delegates of this province, the
sum of one hundred pounds, for which they are to be accountable to
some future Congress, or house of representatives of this colony. I|
Resolved, That Henry Gardner, Esq., receiver general of th prov-
ince, be and hereby is ordered and directed, to pay, unto Robert
Treat Paine, Esq., the sum of forty-six pounds, lawful money, in con-
sideration of the same sum being by him accidentally lost out of his
pocket while on his journey to Philadelphia in the service of this gov-
ernment.
Aflernoon.
Ordered, That Mr. Sullivan, Col. Paterson, and Col. Thomas, be a
committee to revise the commission of the committee of safety, and
the commission of the committee of supplies, and point out what
amendments, if any, are necessary.
Upon a motion made, the question was put, whether the vote rela-
tive to committing the petition of Thomas Legate, Esq., be reconsid-
ered, and the petitioner have leave to withdraw his petition, and passed
in the affirmative.
Ordered, That the secretary be directed to publish the names of the
mandamus counsellors now in Boston, in all the newspapers of the
province, agreeably to the [order of the] late Provincial Congress.
A petition from the delegates of the several towns and districts in
the counties of Hampshire and Berkshire was read ; thereupon, Or-
dered, That the same be committed to the committee on the state of
the province, and that the committee make the petition public if they
think proper.
IJThen the Congress|| adjourned till to-morrow morning, nine
o'clock.
Saturday, Februaiy 11, 1775, A. M.
The committee appointed to revise the commission of the committee
of safety and the committee of supplies, &c., reported by way of re-
solve, which was considered and accepted, and is as foUoweth, viz :
1775.] SECOND PROVINCIAL CONGRESS. «7
Whereas, several resolves have been passed by this and the former
Provincial Congress, authorizing and directing the committee of safe-
ty, in case of necessity, in the defence of the province, to call togeth-
er, arm, accoutre, and equip, the inhabitants thereof: and, whereas,
by resolves of the same Congress, a committee of supplies is appoint-
ed, to provide ordnance, stores, provisions, and arms, and to place them
where the said committee of safety shall order ; but there is no provi-
sion made by whom, to whom, or in what manner and quantities, the
supplies provided by said committee of supplies shall be delivered ;
It is ||therefore|| Resolved, That the said committee of safety, or
the major part of them, shall be, and hereby [are,] empowered to ap-
point one of their number, a commissary, whose business it shall be
to deliver all such stores, ordnance, arms, and provisions, as shall be,
by the committee of supplies provided, as the said committee of safety
shall order and direct, until the constitutional army shall take the field;
when, and during all the time said army shall be in the field, until
they are discharged by the committee of safety, the commissary ap-
pointed by the committee of safety shall deliver the said warlike stores
to the order of the commanding officers of said army.
The committee appointed to bring in a resolve relative to the dis-
posal of some bayonets, &c., reported the following resolve, which
was accepted :
Whereas, there are a number of bayonets and other implements of
war, purchased at the expense of the province, that are not now in
the hands of the committee of safety, as they ought to be, it is there-
fore Resolved, as the opinion of this Congress, that the committee of
safety ought to possess themselves of all the same bayonets and imple-
ments of war, as soon as they conveniently can ; and that they ought
to dispose of the same, for the use of the province, to such persons,
and on such conditions, as they shall think proper.
The committee on the state of the province, reported a resolve re-
commending that a day of fasting and prayer be kept throughout the
province, which was considered and Ordered to lie on the table.
Ordered, That Mr. Sullivan, Mr. Stickney, and Col. Cushing, be a
committee to bring in a resolve, empowering the committee of safety
to direct the committee of supplies, to make such further provision for
the defence of the province as may be necessary.
Resolved, That all the members of the Congress be enjoined to at-
tend, and that none depart without special leave be first obtained.
Ordered, That Col. Tyng, Mr. Adams, Doct. Warren, Major Haw-
ley, Col. Ward, Hon. Mr. Hancock, and Mr. Paine, be a committee to
13
96 SECOND PROVINCIAL CONGRESS. [Feb. 13,
report a resolve, purporting the determination of this people, coolly
and resolutely, to support their rights and privileges, at all hazards.
The committee appointed to take into consideration the address
from the committee of correspondence, for the town of Scituate, and
others, reported ; the report was ||'|| ordered to be recommitted for
amendments.
IIThen the Congressjl adjourned till Monday next, ten o'clock in the
forenoon.
MoNDATj February 13, 1775, A. M.
The committee on the state of the province, reported the form of
a receipt, two of the same tenor and date to be signed by the receiver
general, one of which to be lodged with the town or district treasurer,
and the other to be kept by the constable, or other officer, who shall
pay the money to him. Ordered, that the report be recommitted for
amendments.
Then the Congress adjourned till three o'clock in the afternoon.
Aflernoon.
Ordered, That Mr. Sullivan, Col. Paterson, Mr. Fisher, Mr. Hobby,
and Mr. Freeman, be a committee to bring in a resolve for inquiring
into the state of the militia, their numbers and equipments, and re-
commending to the selectmen of the several towns and districts in this
province, to make return of their town and district stock of ammuni-
tion and warlike stores to this Congress.
Ordered, That Mr. Stephen Hall, Doct. Warren, and Mr. Browne
of Abington, be a committee to take into consideration and report
what is necessary for this Congress to do for the encouragement of
making saltpetre.
Ordered, That Col. Paterson bring in a resolve appointing an agent
for and in behalf of this province, to repair to the province of Quebec,
and there establish a correspondence, to collect and transmit to us the
best and earliest intelligence that can be obtained, of the sentiments
and determination of the inhabitants of that province, with regard to
the late acts of parliament, or any other important matters that do or
may a(fect the colonies in their present dispute with Great Britain.
||Then the Congress|l adjourned till to-morrow morning, ten o'clock.
Tuesday, Februai^ 14, 1775, A. M.
The committee appointed to bring in a resolve relative to an inqui-
ri llrorul and. II
1775] SECOND PROVINCIAL CONGRESS. 99
ry into the state of the tnilitia, town stocks, &/C., reported; tlic report
was recommitted for amendments.
Aficriioon.
The committee appointed to bring in a resolve relative to inquiring
into the state of the militia, &-c., having amended their report, again
reported, which [report] was read and accepted, and Ordered, that it
be printed, and a copy thereof, attested by the president, sent to each
town and district in this province : and is as followeth, viz :
Whereas, it appears necessary for the defence of the lives, liberties,
and properties of the inhabitants of this province, that this Congress,
on the first day of their next session, should be made fully acquainted
with the number and military equipments of the militia and minute
men in this province, as also the town stock of ammunition in each
town and district :
It is therefore. Resolved, That it be and hereby is recommended to
the commanding officers of each regiment of minute men that now is
or shall be formed in this province, that they review the several com-
panies in their respective regiments, or cause them to be reviewed, and
take an exact state of their numbers and equipments : and where there
is any company that is not incorporated into a regiment, the command-
ing officer thereof shall review the several companies, or cause them
to be reviewed, and take a like state of their numbers and equipment :
and it is also recommended to the colonels or commanding officers of
each regiment of militia in this province, that they review the several
companies in their respective regiments, or cause them to be reviewed,
and take a state of their numbers and accoutrements, which said state
of the minute men and militia, shall be, by said officers, returned, in
writing, to this Congress on the first day of their next session after the
adjournment.
And it is further Resolved, That it be recommended to the select-
men of each town and district in the province, that on the same day
they make return in writing, of the state of the town and district stock
of ammunition and warlike stores to this Congress.
Mr. Paterson reported a resolve relative to appointing an agent for
and in behalf of this province, to repair to the province of Quebec,
&c., which was recommitted ; and he, with Mr. Bigelow and Col.
Henshaw, are directed to bring in a resolve, directing and empowering
the committee of correspondence for the town of Boston, to establish
an intimate correspondence with the inhabitants of the province of
Quebec, &.c.
IJThen the Congress|| adjourned till ten o'clock to-morrow morning.
^O « -/
100 SECOND PROVINCIAL CONGRESS. [Feb. 15,
Wednesday, Februai-y 15, 1775, A. M.
Resolved, That at three o'clock this afternoon, the Congress will
come to the choice of a general officer in addition to those already
appointed.
The committee appointed to bring in a resolve empowering the com-
mittee of safety to give orders to the committee of supplies, to make
such further provision for the defence of the government as they shall
think necessary, reported ; Ordered, that the consideration of this report
be referred to the next session of this Congress.
The committee appointed to bring in a resolve empowering the com-
mittee of correspondence of the town of Boston, to correspond with
Quebec, &c., for and in behalf of this province, reported ; the report
was read and accepted, and is as followeth, viz. :
Whereas, it appears the manifest design of administration, to engage
and secure the Canadians and remote tribes of Indians, for the pur-
pose of harassing and distressing these colonies, and reducing them to
a state of absolute slavery : and, whereas, the safety and security of
said colonies depend in a great measure, under God, on their firmness,
unanimity, and friendship ;
Therefore, Resolved, That the committee of correspondence for the
town of Boston, be and they are hereby directed and empowered, in
such way and manner as they shall think proper, to open and establish
an intimate correspondence and connection with the inhabitants of the
province of Quebec, and that they endeavor to put the same immedi-
ately into execution.
The committee appointed to take into consideration what is neces-
sary for this Congress to do for the encouragement of the making of salt-
petre, reported ; the report was read and accepted, (excepting that part
thereof which relates to assay masters, which part was referred for fur-
ther consideration to the next meeting of this Congress,) and is as fol-
loweth, viz. :
Resolved, [1st] That this Congress do now appoint a committee to
draw up directions, in an easy and familiar style, for the manufacturing
of saltpetre, and that the same be printed, and sent to every town and
district in the province, at the public expense.
2d. That for the encouragement of such as are disposed to set up
the manufacture of saltpetre, this Congress do engage to purchase the
whole quantity that shall be manufactured in this province, within
twelve months from this date, at the rate of fourteen pounds, &c., [for
each hundred pounds weight.]
3d. That a proper assay master be appointed in every county, to
receive and pay for the saltpetre which .shall be brought to him with a
1775.] SECONJ) PROVINCIAL CONGRESS. Mil
satisfactory certificate that tlie same was actually iiiaimfacturcd in this
province.
The committee on the state of tlio |)r«)vincc reported again the form
of a receijjt, two of the same tenor and date to be signed by tiie re-
ceiver general ; one of which is to be lodged with the town or district
treasurer or clerk, who shall send their money, and the other to be kept
by the constable, collector, or other officer, who shall pay the same to
him ; which was read and accepted, and is as followeth :
liesolvcd, That [it] is proper and expedient, that Henry Gardner,
Esq., receiver general of this province, should, for the greater security
of the province, give two several receipts for all such sums of money
as he ll'for the future may receive|| for the use of the province ; and for
the greater satisfaction of all such persons as shall make payments to
the said receiver general, it is hereby recommended to the said Henry
[Gardner,] or his successor in office, that he make both such receipts
as near as ([""may be|| to the form following, to wit :
177 — , Received of A B , the sum of
being part ||or the whole|| of the province tax set on the
town of C by the general court in the year 17 — , for which sum,
I have given the said A — B — another receipt of the same tenor and
date with this.
One of which receipts, the person paying the said money, is request-
ed to lodge with the treasurer or clerk of the town or district on whose
account the money shall be paid, or such other person as the inhabit-
ants of such town or district shall appoint.
Ordered, That Mr. Adams, Major Hawley, Mr. Gerry, Hon. Mr.
Cushing, Mr. Paine, Col. Palmer, and Mr. Freeman, be a committee
to bring in a ||'=resolvel| holding up to the people of this province, the
imminent danger they are in, from the present disposition of the British
ministry and parliament, and that there is reason to fear that they will
attempt our sudden destruction : and the importance it is to the in-
habitants of this colony to prepare themselves for the last event.
The committee on the state of the province, reported a resolve rela-
tive to pedlers, &c., which was read, considered, and accepted ; and
ordered to be published in all the newspapers, and is as followeth, viz. :
Whereas, the practice of pedlers and petty chapmen, in going from
town to town, selling East India goods and teas, and various sorts of
European manufactures, in direct opposition to the good and whole-
some laws of this province, whereby they are liable to the forfeiture of
all their goods, besides being subject to the penalty of twenty pounds,
a ||sha11 for thr fiiturp rpceive.ll b |lpossiblo.|| c l|bill.||
102 SECOND PROVINCIAL CONGRESS. [Feb. 15,
does manifestly tend to interrupt and defeat the measures necessary to
recover and secure the rights and liberties of the inhabitants of these
colonies : and whereas, the law relating to pedlers and petty chap-
men, cannot, at present, be effectually carried into execution :
It is therefore hereby earnestly recommended to the committees of
inspection of the several towns and districts in this province, that they
be very vigilant and industrious to discover and find out, when any
pedlers and petty chapmen shall come into their respective towns and
districts ; and that the said committees, whenever they shall find out
that any pedler or petty chapman shall be in the town or district for
which such committee is appointed, that such committee, without fail,
make a thorough and careful search and examination of the packs,
baggage, and all the goods, wares, and merchandize of such pedler
and petty chapman, and in case such committee shall find any India
teas or European manufactures, in the possession of such pedler or
petty chapman, it is further recommended to such committee to pre-
vent, by all reasonable means, such pedler and petty chapman, from
vending any such teas and manufactures ; and it is hereby recommend-
ed to the inhabitants of this province, not to trade with such pedlers
and petty chapmen for any article whatever.
Ordered, That Major Fuller, Mr. Browne, and Mr. Bigelow, be a
committee to direct and forward the pamphlets printed by order of
Congress to the several towns and districts in the province.
The order of the day was moved for.
Ordered, That Mr. Gill, Mr. Pitts, and Col. Mansfield, be a com-
mittee to count and sort the votes for a general officer in addition to
those already appointed.
The Congress then proceeded to bring in their votes for a general
officer. The committee having counted and sorted the same, report-
ed, that the Hon. John Whitcomb, Esq., was chosen.
Ordered, That the member from the town of H^BoltonH be desired
to wait on the Hon. John Whitcomb, Esq., with a copy of ||4iis being
elected|| a general officer, and ||Mesire|| his answer, whether he will
accept that trust, as soon as may be.
y'The committee appointed in the morning to bring in a resolve
holding up to the people the imminent danger they are in, &lc., re-
ported: the report was read,|| accepted, and ordered to be printed in
all the newspapers, and is as followeth, viz :
a ||Bo.st(m.|| 1) ||tlio resolve electing liiiii.|| c ||roquest.|(
(1 \\Ordered, That the report of the comniiltoo apiiointod to bring in a resolve, holding up to the
people the imminent danger they were in,&e., he now read ; which was done accordingly, nnd||
1775] SECOND PROVINCIAL CONGRESS. 103
Whereas, it appears to this Congress, from the present disposition
of the British ministry and parliament, that there is real cause to fear
that the most reasonable and just applications of this continent to
Great Britain, for " peace, liberty, and safety," will not meet with a
favorable reception; but, on the contrary, from the large reenforcc-
ments of troops expected in this colony, the tenor of intelligence from
Great Britain, and general appearances, we have reason to apprehend
that the sudden destruction of this colony in particular is intended, ||'||
for refusing, with the other American colonies, tamely to submit to
the most ignominious slavery ;
Therefore, Resolved, That the great law of self-preservation, calls
upon the inhabitants of this colony, immediately to prepare against
every attempt that may be made to attack them by surprise ; and it is,
upon serious deliberation, most earnestly recommended to the militia
in general, as well as the detached part of it in minute men, that they
spare neither time, pains, nor expense, at so critical a juncture, in per-
fecting themselves forthwith in military discipline, and that skillful in-
structors be provided for those companies which may not already be
provided therewith : and it is recommended to the towns and districts
in this colony, that they encourage such persons as are skilled in the
manufacturing of firearms and bayonets, diligently to apply themselves
thereto, for supplying such of the inhabitants as may still be deficient.
And for the encouragement of American ||''manufacturersl| of fire
arms and bayonets, it is further Resolved, that this Congress will give
the preference to, and purchase from them, so many effective arms and
bayonets as can be delivered in a reasonable time, upon notice given
to this Congress at its next session.
The committee appointed to take into consideration the address from
the committee of correspondence of the town of Scituate, and other
towns in that vicinity, reported : their report was read and accepted,
and Ordered, that it be published in the newspapers, and is as follow-
eth, viz :
Voted, That the Congress do highly approve of the vigilance and
activity of the selectmen and the committees of correspondence of the
several towns of Plymouth, Kingston, Duxbury, Pembroke, Hanover,
and Scituate, in detecting the falsehoods and malicious artifices of
certain persons belonging to Marshfield and Scituate, not respectable
either in their numbers or their characters, who are, with great reason,
supposed to have been the persons who prevailed upon General Gage
to take the imprudent step, of sending a number of the king's troops
a ||mcrely.|| l> ||inninifacturcs ||
104 SECOND PROVINCIAL CONGRESS. [Feb. 15,
into Marshfield, under pretence of protecting them : whereby great
and just offence has been given to the good people of this province, as
very fatal consequences must have arisen therefrom, if the same male-
volent spirit which seems to have influenced them, had actuated the
inhabitants of the neighboring towns; or if the same indiscretion
which betrayed the general into the unwarrantable measure of sending
the troops, had led this people to destroy them.
Voted, That the Congress do earnestly recommend it to the select-
men and committees of correspondence in the several towns of Ply-
mouth, Kingston, Duxbury, Pembroke, Hanover, and Scituate, steadi-
ly to persevere in the same line of conduct which has, in this instance,
so justly entitled them to the esteem of their fellow countrymen, and
to keep a watchful eye upon the behavior of those who are aiming at
the destruction of our liberties.^
(I) The petition, upon which the votes of Congress were founded, has not been preserved. An
address from the same towns, to General Gage, probably contains the substance of the memorial
presented to the assembly of delegates. It is copied from the Boston Evening Post, February
27, 1775.
" To his excellency Thomas Oagc, Esq : may it please your excellency : —
"We, his majesty's loyal subjects, selectmen of the several towns of Plymouth, Kingston,
Duxbury, Pembroke, Hanover, and Scituate, deeply affected with a sense of the increasing dangers
and calamities which menace one of the most promising countries upon earth with political exci-
sion, cannot but lament, that, wliile we are endeavoring to preserve peace and maintain the author-
ity of the laws, at a period when the bonds of government are relaxed, by violent infractions on the
charter of the province, our enemies are practising every insidious stratagem to seduce the people
into acts of violence and outrage."
" We beg leave to address your excellency, on a subject which excites our apprehensions ex-
tremely : and, in the representation of facts, we promise to pay that sacred regard to truth, which,
had our jidversaries observed, we flatter ourselves, it would have precluded the necessity of our
addressing your excellency, on this occasion."
"We are informed, from good authority, that a number of people from Marshfield and Scituate,
have made application to your excellency, soliciting the aid of a detachment of his majesty's
troops, for the security and protection of themselves and properties. That their fears and intimi-
dation were entirely groundless, that no design or plan of molestation, was formed against them,
or existed but in their own imaginations, their own declarations, and their actions, which have a
more striking language, abundantly demonstrate. Several men of unquestionable veracity, resid-
ing in the town of Marshfield, have solemnly called God to witness, before one of his majesty's
justices of the peace, that they not only never heard of any intention to disturb tlie complainants,
but repeatedly saw thorn after they pretended to be under apprehensions of danger, attending to
their private art'airs, without arms, and even after they had lodged their arms a few miles from
their respective houses. They frequently declared, in conversation with the deponents, that they
were not apprehensive of receiving any injury in their persons or properties, and one of them, who
is a minor, as many of them are, being persuaded to save his life by adjoining himself to the peti-
tioners, but afterwards abandoning thorn by the request of his father, deposeth, in like solemn man-
ner, tliat he was under no intimidation himself, nor did he ever hear any one of them say that he
was. It appears as evident, as if written with a sunbeam, from the general tenor of the testimony,
which we are willing to lay before your excellency if desired, that their expressions of fear, were
a fallacious pretext, dictated by the inveterate enemies of our constitution, to induce your excel-
lency to send troops into the country, to augment the difficulties of our situation, already very dis-
tressing; and, what confirms this truth, if it needs any confirmation, is, the assiduity and pains
177.-,.] SECOND PROVINCIAL CONGRESS. 105
Ordered, That Mr. Adams, Mr. Gerry, Hon. Mr. Cashing, Mr.
Paine, Hon. Col. Ward, Col. Prescot, and Major Holten, be a com-
mittee to wait on the Hon. Col. Williams, and [Nathaniel] Wales, Esq.,
and inform them that the Congress have had notice of their being in
town as a committee from Connecticut, in order to have a conference
with us ; and that we are ready to confer with them by a committee, at
such time and place as shall be most agreeable to them.
Ordered, That no member of this Congress depart therefrom until
the conference with the committee from Connecticut is over.
The committee appointed to wait upon the gentlemen from Connec-
ticut, reported, that they h.id attended that service, and delivered the
message with which they were charged ; and that the gentlemen pro-
pose this evening to meet the committee from this Congress at such
place as you shall appoint.
Ordered, That the committee on the state of the province be the
committee from this Congress, to meet the gentlemen from Connecti-
cut, this evening, at Capt. Stedman's, for the proposed conference.
||The Congress then|| adjourned till to-morrow morning, nine o'clock.
Thursday, February 16, 1775, A. M.
Adjourned to twelve o'clock, at noon.
Met ||*upon thejl adjournment.
Ordered, That Mr. Pickering, Doct. Warren, and Mr. Lothrop, be
a committee to bring in a resolve purporting the business and duty of
a committee to be appointed to correspond with the House of Assem-
bly of Connecticut ; and, if necessary, with the other neighboring
colonies.
Resolved, That at three o'clock this afternoon the Congress will
come to the choice, by ballot, of a committee to correspond with the
neighboring governments.
Afternoon.
Ordered, That Mr. Pitts, Mr. Gill, and Major Fuller, be a commit-
a ||agreeably to.||
wliich we have taken to investigate it. We have industriously scrutinized into the cause of this
alarm, and cannot find that it has the least foundation in reality."
" All that we have in view in this address is, to lay before your excellency a true state of facts,
and to remove that opprobrium, which this movement of the military reflects on this country : and
as a spirit of enmity and falsehood is prevalent in the country, and as every thing which comes
from a gentleman of your excellency's exalted station naturally acquires great weight and impor-
tance, we earnestly entreat your excellency to search into the grounds of every report, previous to
giving your assent to it."
The troops stationed at Marshfield were detached from the British regiments in Boston, January
23, 1775.
14
106 SECOND PROVINCIAL CONGRESS. [Feb. 16,
tee to count and sort the votes for the committee to correspond with
the neighboring governments.
Ordered, That Major Hawley, Mr. Browne, and Col. Paterson, be
a committee to bring in a resolve relative to the adjournment, and em-
powering the members of Charlestown and others, to call the Congress
together at an earlier day than [that] to which it may be adjourned.
Ordered, That Col. Gardner, Major Holten and Capt. Batchelder,
be a committee to wait on the Rev. Doct. Appleton, and return him
the thanks of this Congress for his services as their chaplain during
this session.
The Congress then proceeded to bring in their votes for a commit-
tee to correspond with the neighboring governments : after sorting
and counting the same, the committee reported, that the Hon. John
Hancock, Esq., Hon. Thomas Cushing, Esq., [Mr.] Samuel Adams,
Doct. Joseph Warren, Mr. Elbridge Gerry and Col. William Heath,
[were elected.]
Upon a motion, the question was put, whether the vote in the morn-
ing, relative to the choice of a committee to correspond with the
neighboring governments, by ballot, be so far reconsidered, as that the
three persons now to be appointed thereon, be chosen by hand vote,
and that Mr. Richard Devens, Col. Joseph Palmer, and Mr. Moses
Gill, be of the committee, and passed in the affirmative.
Resolved, That Henry Gardner, Esq., receiver general, be and he
hereby is directed to pay into the hands of the committee of correspond-
ence of the town of Boston, the sum of twenty pounds, lawful money,
to enable the said committee to correspond with the inhabitants of
Canada, they to be accountable for said sum to this or some other
congress.
The committee appointed to bring in a resolve setting forth the
business and duty of the committee appointed to correspond with the
neighboring governments, reported ; [which report was] read and ac-
cepted, and is as followeth, viz :
While the iron hand of power is stretched out against these Ameri-
can colonies, and the abettors of tyranny and oppression are practising
every art to sow the seeds of jealousy and discord among the several
parts of this country, it is incumbent on us to take every step in our
power to counteract them in their wicked designs ; and, as we are con-
vinced, that the union now established throughout the several colonies
can never be maintained without frequent communication of senti-
ments between them, nor can any plan formed for their common bene-
1775] SECOND PROVINCIAL CONGRESS. 107
fit [be] carriod into execution without a previous knowledge of the
general disposition of the colonics ;i
Risolcid, That the lion. John Hancock, Esq., Hon. Mr. Cushing,
Mr. Adams, Mr. Gerry, Doct. Warren, Col. Heath, Mr. Devens, Col.
Pahner and Mr. Gill, or the majority of them, V»e and are hereby ap-
pointed to act as a committee of correspondence with the other colo-
nies on this continent during the recess of this Congress ; and they
are hereby empowered and directed, to consult with, and make propo-
sals to such committees as now are or shall hereafter be appointed as
committees of correspondence in the several American colonies, and
to make report of their doings to this Congress at their next sessions.
The report of the committee recommending a day of fasting and
prayer to be kept throughout this province, which was ordered to lie
on the table, [was] now taken up, considered, and accepted, and is as
followeth, viz :
Whereas, it has pleased Almighty God, the just and good governor
of the world, to permit so great a calamity to befal us as the present
controversy between Great Britain and these colonies, and which
threatens us with the evils of war ;
And whereas, it has been the annual and laudable custom of this
colony, at the opening of the spring, to observe a day of fasting and
prayer, to humble themselves before God for their sins, and to implore
his forgiveness and blessing ;
It is, therefore. Resolved, as the sense of this Congress, that it is
highly and peculiarly proper, and a duty incumbent upon this people
more especially at a time of such general distress, that a day of pub-
lic fasting and prayer should be observed and kept throughout this col-
ony, not only on account of the present calamity, but also in conform-
ity to the laudable custom of our ancestors ; and it is accordingly
recommended to the several religious assemblies in the same, that
Thursday, the sixteenth day of March next, be observed as a day of
fasting and prayer to humble ourselves before God, on account of our
sins ; to implore his forgiveness ; to beg his blessing upon the labors
of the field, upon our merchandize, fishery and manufactures, and
upon the various means used to recover and preserve our just rights
and liberties ; and also, that his blessing may rest upon all the British
empire, upon George the Third, our rightful king, and upon all the
royal family, that they may all be great and lasting blessings to the
world ; to implore the outpourings of his spirit, to enable us to bear
(1) In the copy of tiio journal the prcanihle is placed after the resolution.
108 SECOND PROVINCIAL CONGRESS. [Feb. 16,
and suffer whatever his holy and righteous Providence may see fit to
lay upon us ; and also humbly to supplicate his direction and assist-
ance, to discover and reform whatever is amiss, that so he may be
pleased to remove these heavy afflictions, those tokens of his displeas-
ure, and may cause harmony and union to be restored between Great
Britain and these colonies, and that we may again rejoice in the free
and undisturbed exercise of all those rights and privileges, for the en-
joyment of which, our pious and virtuous ancestors braved every dan-
ger, and transmitted the fair possession down to their children, to be
by them handed down entire to the latest posterity.
Ordered, That Mr. Devens, Mr. Gorham and Mr. Watson, be a
committee to direct the [printed copies of the] resolve recommending
a day of fasting and prayer, and send them to the several religious as-
semblies in this province.
Upon a motion made, the question was put, whether the injunction
of secrecy now on the members of this Congress be taken off, and
that they disclose such parts of their doings as shall appear to them to
have a tendency to promote the public interest, and passed in the affir-
mative.
Ordered, That Col. Gardner, Mr. Watson, and Mr. Osgood, be a
committee, to return the thanks of this body to the proprietors of the
meeting-house in Cambridge, for their favors in indulging the Congress
with the use thereof during their session.
Ordered, That Henry Gardner, Esq., receiver general of this prov-
ince, be and he is hereby directed, to pay unto Mr. William Darling,
the sum of two pounds and sixteen shillings, lawful money, in full for
his services as doorkeeper.
The committee appointed to bring in a resolve relative to the ad-
journment of this Congress, and empowering the members from
Charlestown, and others, to call the Congress together sooner than
the day to which it may be adjourned, reported ; the report was read
and accepted, and is as foUoweth, viz. :
Resolved, That this Congress be adjourned from this day to the
twenty-second day of March next, at nine o'clock in the forenoon, to
meet at Concord, in the county of Middlesex ; and considering the
great uncertainty of the present times, and that important unforeseen
events may take place, from whence it may be absolutely necessary
that this Congress should meet sooner than the day abovesaid, not-
withstanding the adjournment aforesaid :
It is farther Resolved, That the members of this Congress for the
towns of Charlestown, Cambridge, Brookline, Roxbury and Dorches-
1775] SECOND PROVINCIAL CONGRESS 109
ler, or the majority of tliem, be and [they] are hereby authorized, in case
they shall judge it necessary, to give notice to the several members of
this Congress, in such way as they shall think proper, to meet at Con-
cord, aforesaid, at any ||"earlier day|| than the abovesaid twenty-second
day of March next, which shall be by them appointed ; and it is fur-
ther recommended to the members of this Congress that they conform
themselves to said notice.
The president then declared the Congress adjourned accordingly.
Wednesday, March 22, 1775, A. M.
Congress met ||''accordingl| to adjournment.
Ordered, That Col. Barrett, Hon. Mr. Dexter and Mr. Stickney, be
a committee, to wait on the Rev. Mr. Emerson, and desire his attend-
ance on the Congress, and [that he would] open the same with prayer,
at three o'clock this afternoon. ||'||
Afternoon.
Ordered, That Col. Barrett, Hon. Mr, Dexter, and Mr. Stickney, be
a committee to wait again on the Rev. Mr. Emerson, and desire him,
if his circumstances will admit of it, to attend daily on the Congress,
and officiate as their chaplain.
Ordered, That all the debates and resolutions of this Congress be
kept an entire secret, until the farther order thereof.
Ordered, That Col. Danielson, Col. Henshaw, Major Fuller, Col.
Prescot and Col. Farley, be a committee to receive the returns of the
several officers of militia, of their numbers and | ['^equipments, || and
the returns from the several towns of their town stock of ammunition.
Ordered, That Mr. Lothrop and the Hon. Col. Dexter, be added to
the committee on the state of the province.
||The Congress thenjl adjourned till to-morrow morning at nine
o'clock.
Thursday, March 23, 1775, A. M.
The committee appointed to wait on the Rev. Mr. Emerson, and
desire that he would officiate as chaplain to this Congress, during their
present session, in the town of Concord, reported, that they had at-
tended that service, and delivered the message, and that Mr. Emerson
would officiate accordingly.
Ordered, That Mr. Gerry, Mr. Paine and Mr. Adams, be a commit-
tee to bring in a resolve, expressing the sense of this Congress, that
a ||cert:iin duy other. || b ||conformably.||
c ||to which time this Congress stan'ls a(ljourned.|| A Hcquip.nge.H
110 SECOND PROVINCIAL CONGRESS. [March 24,
for this people to relax in their preparations to defend themselves, &c.,
would be attended with the most dangerous consequences.
Ordered, That information be given by the members, to the com-
mittee on the state of the province, of the number of field pieces,
whether the property of the province, towns, or private persons, which
have fallen within their knowledge ; as also what number of men [there
are] in the province acquainted with the business of making firearms.
Adjourned to three o'clock [this afternoon.]
Afternoon.
||Congress|| adjourned till to-morrow morning, ten o'clock.
Friday, March 24, 1775, A. M.
Adjourned to three o'clock [this afternoon.]
Aflernooii.
The committee appointed to bring in a resolve, expressing the dan-
ger there would be in relaxing from the present preparations for de-
fence, &LC., reported. The report [was] accepted, and Ordered, that
it be attested and published in all the Boston newspapers.
[Whereas, it is indispensably necessary, for the safety of a free peo-
ple and the preservation of their liberties, that they, at all times, keep
themselves in a state of actual defence against every invasion or dep-
redation ; and this country being still threatened by a powerful army
posted in its capital, with a professed design of executing certain acts
of the British parliament, calculated to destroy our invaluable rights
and liberties and the government of this colony, as by charter and law
established therein :]
[Therefore, Resolved, That the measures which have heretofore
been recommended by this and the former Provincial Congress, for the
purpose of putting this colony into a complete state of defence, be still
most vigorously pursued, by the several towns, as well as individual
inhabitants, and that any relaxation would be attended with the utmost
danger to the liberties of this colony and of all America; especially,
as by the latest advices from Great Britain, we have undoubted reasons
for jealousy, that our implacable enemies are unremitting in their en-
deavors, by fraud and artifice as well as by open force, to subjugate
this people ; which is an additional motive to the inhabitants of this
colony to persevere in the line of conduct recommended by the Con-
gress, and to be ready to oppose, with firmness and resolution, at the
utmost hazard, every attempt for that purpose.']
Adjourned till ten o'clock to-morrow morning.
(1) This resolution, omitted in the original record :ind liie copy of tlie journ il, liis been restored
from the publirnfion in the nowspnpers.
1775] SECOND PROVINCIAL CONGRESS. Ill
Saturday, March 25, 1775, A. M.
Ordiral, That when this Congress ||'adjourn,|| it be adjourned to
Monday next, at three o'clock in the afternoon.
Ordered, That the members be enjoined to attend punctually at the
adjournment.
Monday, March 27, 1775, P. M.
The committee appointed to prepare a state of the imports, exports,
&c., reported : Ordered, tliat the further consideration thereof be re-
ferred to Wednesday next, [at] three o'clock in the afternoon.
The committee appointed to prepare some rules, &,c. for a constitu-
tional army, reported ; the report [was] read : Ordered, that the far-
ther consideration of the report be ||''on the morrow|| four o'clock, P.
M., and tiiat the committee make such additions thereto as they shall
think necessary.
Adjourned to ten o'clock to-morrow morning.
[The several] committees [were] enjoined to sit.
Tuesday, March 28, 1775, A. M.
The several committees [were] enjoined to sit.
Adjourned to three o'clock [this afternoon.]
Afiernoon.
According to the order of the day, [the Congress] went into the
consideration of the report of the committee appointed to prepare
rules and regulations for a constitutional army, &c.
IpThe above report]! was recommitted for amendments.
Adjourned to nine o'clock to-morrow morning.
Wednesday, March 29, [1775,] A. M,
ll'^Resumedll the consideration of the report of the committee, rela-
tive to rules, &c. ; considered the same in paiagraphs, [and] passed
[the same] in part.
Adjourned to three o'clock [this afternoon.]
Afternoon.
The ll^above report|| relative to rules, &lc., passed in whole, but
[was] ordered to be recommitted for ||some|| additions.
Ordered, That Capt. Osgood, Col. Thompson and Capt. Greenleaf,
be a committee to bring in a resolve, introductory to the publishing
the names of the mandamus counsellors.
The vote of Tuesday relative to information being given to the
a ||shall adjourn that.|| h ||po.stponeil until to-morrow. H i- ||whicli was.||
il ||revisecl.|| c ||rpport of the rommittpo.||
112 SECOND PROVINCIAL CONGRESS. [March 30,
committee on the state of the province, ||*wasl| so far reconsidered as
that the information be given to the committee appointed to receive
the returns from the colonels.
Adjourned to ten o'clock to-morrow morning.
Thursday, March 30, 1775, A. M.
The doorkeeper [was] directed to call in the members : they [were]
enjoined to attend. The committee on the state of the province re-
ported a resolve, relative to what movements of the troops should
make it fit to call the militia together, to act on the defensive ; report
read and considered in paragraphs, and passed unanimously in the
affirmative.
Upon a motion made and seconded. Resolved, that immediately,
when notice shall be given for the assembling the forces of this colo-
ny, the members of this Congress repair, without delay, to the place
to which they shall be adjourned.
Adjourned to three o'clock [this afternoon.]
Afternoon.
The committee appointed yesterday to draw an introduction to pub-
lishing the names of the mandamus counsellors, reported ; [the report
was] recommitted, and the committee [were] directed to bring in a
report by way of order, &c.
The committee appointed to receive the [returns of] exports and
imports, «Sz;c., in the colony, reported ; [the report was] referred to
Wednesday next at three o'clock.
Several committees [were] enjoined to sit and perfect their reports
without delay, in order, if possible, that the Congress may rise to-
morrow.
Adjourned to nine o'clock to-morrow morning.
Friday, March 31, 1775, A. M.
The committee appointed to bring in a resolve as introductory to
publishing the names of the mandamus counsellors, [reported a re-
solve, which] being amended, was read and accepted, and is as follows :
In Provincial Congress, Concord, March 31, 1775.
Resolved, That the names of the following persons be published in
all the Boston newspapers, who, having been appointed counsellors by
his majesty's mandamus, and having accepted, and acted under said
commissions, have proved themselves implacable enemies to the liber-
a llbo.ll
1775] SECOND PROVINCIAL CONGRESS. 118
ties of their country, by refusing to publish a renunciation of their
coniniissions, agreeably to a resolve of a former Provincial Congress;
that the secretary be directed to transmit authenticated copies of this
resolve, with the names annexed, to all the printers in Boston, and that
they be desired to insert the same in their papers, that every town may
be possessed of a copy of their names, which are to be entered upon
the town and district records, that they may be sent down to posteri-
ty, if possible, with the infamy they deserve : [They are as follow :]
Thomas Flucker, Foster Hutchinson, Harrison Gray, William
Brown, James Boutineau, Joshua Loring, William Pepperell, John
Erving, Jun., Peter Oliver, Richard Lechmere, Josiah Edson, Nathan-
iel Ray Thomas, Timothy Ruggles, John Murray, and Daniel Leonard,
Esquires.
The committee appointed to receive the returns from the several
||"colonels, II &-C., reported ; the report was recommitted to be com-
pleted.
A memorial from the selectmen of the town of Billerica, [was]
read, and committed to Mr. Marcy, Capt. Batchelder, Capt. Osgood,
Capt. Manning and Mr. Freeman.
Ordered, That the receiver general be directed to lay a state of the
treasury before this Congress.
The members [were] enjoined to attend until the farther order of
this Congress.
Adjourned to three o'clock [this afternoon.]
Afternoon.
The- committee on the state of the province reported a resolve rela-
tive to the payment of the public monies immediately to Mr. Gardner:
read and accepted, and Ordered, that it be printed in hand bills, and a
copy thereof sent to each town, directed to the committee of corres-
pondence, if any; if not, to the selectmen; to be laid before the several
towns.
In Provincial Congress, Concord, March 31, 1775.
Whereas, this Congress is informed that many collectors and con-
stables, having in their hands considerable sums of the public moneys
of this colony, have hitherto neglected to pay the same to Henry
Gardner, Esq., of Stow; and the Congress, earnestly attentive to the
ease of the inhabitants of the colony, are desirous of completing the
preparations so essentially necessary to the public safety, without call
ing on them for other moneys, than such as are now due to the colony •
15
114 SECOND PROVINCIAL CONGRESS. [April 1,
It is, therefore, i?esoZwef?, That the constables and collectors aforesaid,
ought, by no means, to be longer indulged in their unreasonable neglect
of complying with the most important plans of this colony ; and it is
hereby strongly recommended, to the several towns and districts of the
same, that they oblige said constables and collectors forthwith to pay
the balances aforesaid, due from them respectively, to the receiver gen-
eral ; and it is also most earnestly recommended to those towns and
districts, having any public moneys belonging to the colony yet uncol-
lected, that they do not fail to hire and pay the same to the said Henry
Gardner, Esq., without delay; and that they vigorously exert them-
selves to suppress every opposition to measures recommended by the
Continental and Provincial Congresses, as they regard the freedom
and happiness of themselves and future generations.
Ordered, That Mr. Gorham, Mr. Devens and Mr. Watson, be a
committee to forward the hand bills to the several towns, &lc.
Resolved, That each member be desired to urge the town, of which
he is a representative, if they have not paid their money to Henry
Gardner, that they would immediately pay it; and if it cannot be soon
collected, that they be desired to borrow it ; and if there is any town
which does not incline to pay their public moneys to Mr. Gardner,
they are desired to give their reasons for such refusal to this Congress,
at the next session thereof
Adjourned to nine o'clock to-morrow morning.
Saturday, April 1, 1775, A. M.
The committee appointed to report rules, &c., for the provincial
army, having made the additions directed, the same were read and put
in whole and passed ; they were then ordered to be recommitted, for the
bringing a form of oaths, and a resolve relative to witnesses.
The committee on the state of the province reported a resolve rela-
tive to furnishing the indians with blankets who have enlisted as min-
ute men, &c., and an address to them ; it passed, and is as follows :
In Provincial Congress, CowcorJ, April 1, 1775.
Whereas, a number of indians, natives of the town of Stockbridge,
have enlisted as minute men — Resolved, that, for their encouragement,
the following address to said indians be presented to them, by Col. John
Paterson and Capt. William Goodridge, and that Henry Gardner, Esq.,
the receiver general, be, and hereby is directed, to pay the sum of twenty-
three pounds, lawful money, into the hands of Col. John Paterson and
Capt. William Goodridge, to be employed in purchasing a number of
1775.] SECOND PIIOVINCIAL CONGRESS. 116
bliiiikets and .some ribbons, which tliey are to present to the indians en-
listed as aforesaid, viz : one blanket and one yard of ribbon to each
person, that is or may be enlisted; and in case the whole of the money
should not be employed, in the purchase aforesaid, they are to be ac-
countable for the residue.
To Johoiakin Mothksin, and the rest of our brethren, the indians,
natives of Stockbridge :
Good Bkothers — It affords us great pleasure and satisfaction, to
hear by Col. Paterson and Capt. Goodridge, that our brothers, the na-
tives of Stockbridge, are ready and willing to take up the hatchet in
the cause of liberty and their country. We find you have not been in-
attentive to the unhappy controversy we are engaged in with our
mother country, by reason of sundry acts the British parliament have
passed, by which, our rights and privileges have been invaded, and our
property taken from us without our consent. We have frequently peti-
tioned the king for redress of our grievances, and the restoration of
our rights; but, instead of granting us relief, the king's ministers have
sent a large fleet, and posted a great army in the town of Boston, who
are daily abusing and insulting the inhabitants, in order to enforce
obedience to these acts. The whole continent, from Nova Scotia to
Georgia, by their delegates, have lately presented a petition to the
king, praying for relief, to which we hope we shall receive a gracious
answer. We wish the fire of friendship may be again kindled between
both countries ; but in case our petition should not be attended to, and
the ministry should determine to deprive us of our rights and property
by a military force, we hold ourselves obliged to defend them at the
point of the sword. This is a common cause ; a cause you are equally
engaged in with ourselves ; we are all brothers, and if the parliament
of Great Britain takes from us our property, and our lands, without
our consent, they will do the same by you ; your property, your lands
will be insecure ; in short, we shall not any of us have any thincr we
can call our own. Your engaging in this cause, discovers not only
your attachment to your liberties, but furnishes us with an evidence of
your gratitude to this province for their past favors. Thev have fre-
quently, at your request, made laws and regulations for your protec-
tion and defence against the ravages and frauds of deceitful and de-
signing men. They have con.'^tantly and cheerfully afforded you aid
and assistance, because you have given them abundant proof of your
fidelity. We have directed Col. Paterson and Capt. Goodridge to pre-
sent each of you, that have enlisted in the .service, with a blanket and
116 SECOND PROVINCIAL CONGRESS. [April 1,
a ribbon, as a testimony of our affection, and shall depend upon your
firm and steady attachment to the cause you have engaged in.
Ordered, That Mr. Adams, Mr. Cushing, and Col. Paterson, be a
committee to draught a letter to the Rev. Mr. Kirkland, and an address
to the chief of the Mohawk indian tribes.
Moved, That the Congress now go into consideration of what
ought to be the conduct of the several towns, in case general
Gage should send out his precepts for convening a new assembly, on
the last Wednesday of May next, and what ought to be their conduct
in case he should not send out his writs.
Resolved, That it is the opinion of this Congress, that in case writs, in
the form the law directs, should be issued, they ought to be obeyed.
Resolved, That, in case writs should not be issued forth, that a Con-
gress be called, on the last Wednesday of May next ; and in case gen-
eral Gage should not issue precepts for calling an assembly, as the law
directs, the members of the towns of Charlestown, Cambridge, Brook-
line, Roxbury, and Dorchester, be desired to publish this resolve and
appoint a place where they shall assemble.
Ordered, That Col. Warren, Mr. Adams, and Mr. Gill, be a com-
mittee to reduce the several resolutions of this day, relative to calling
a new Congress, into form, and bring in a resolve accordingly. The
committee reported ; ['1;he report was] read, accepted, and is as follows :
In Provincial Congress, April 1, 1775.
\\Resolved, As the sense of this Congress, that if writs should be
issued, in form as the law directs, 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 choose their members as
usual ; and instruct them to transact no business with the council, ap-
pointed by mandamus ; and if they should be dissolved, to meet in a
Provincial Congress, for the purpose of considering and transacting
the affairs of this colony. ||
In Provincial Congress, April 1, 1775.
Resolved, That in case writs are not issued according to law, for
calling a general assembly, on the last Wednesday of May next, it be
recommended to the several towns and districts in this colony, to
choose delegates for a Provincial Congress, to meet on the said last
Wednesday of May next, at such place as the present members of the
towns of Charlestown, Cambridge, Brookline, Roxbury, and Dorches-
n IKvhirli was.ll
1775.] SECOND PROVINCIAL CONGRESS. 117
ter, shall appoint ; who are desired to cause this resolution to be pub-
lished ill the several newspapers, as soon as it can be ascertained that
writs are not issued for calling an assembly.
An application from the committee of correspondence of the town
of Boston, and others, was read ; Ordered, that the consideration
||thereof|| be referred to three o'clock this afternoon.
Afternoon.
The Congress proceeded to consider the application from the com-
mittee of correspondence of Boston, &lc., agreeably to the order of the
forenoon ; Ordered, that it be committed to Col. Danielson, Mr.
Gerry, Col. Foster, Major Fuller of Middleton, and Col. Warren, to
consider of, and report thereon.
The members enjoined to attend at the adjournment ["of this Con-
gress.]
||The Congress adjourned to Monday morning, nine o'clock. |I
Monday, April 3, 1775, A. M.
Resolved, That the committee on the state of the province be desir-
ed to collect all the late intelligence from Great Britain relative to their
sending a reenforcement to General Gage, and on other matters which
relate to this and the other colonies, and report to the Congress what
is best to be done.
Ordered, That Doct. Church, Col. Pomeroy, and Doct. Warren, be
a committee to bring in a resolve to be inserted in the Salem papers,
requiring the attendance of all the absent members, and a recommen-
dation to the several towns and districts, who have not yet sent mem-
bers to the Provincial Congress, that they elect them, and direct their
immediate attendance.
Ordered, That Major Bliss, Mr. Freeman, and Capt. Osgood, be a
committee to bring in a resolve, to be forwarded by an express, to call
in the absent members from the counties of Hampshire, Berkshire,
Worcester, and Bristol.
Adjourned to three o'clock [this afternoon.]
Afternoon.
Ordered, That the committee on the memorial of the town of Bille-
rica, be joined to the committee appointed to take into consideration
the memorial from the town of Boston and others.
Ordered, That the committee be enjoined to sit immediately.
a llwhirh will hp at 9 o'rinck A. M., Monflay next.||
118 SECOND PROVINCIAL CONGRESS. [April 4,
Ordered, That Col. Foster be excused from [serving on the] last
mentioned committee.
\fOrdcred, That|| Col. Cashing be added to them.
||Congress|l adjourned till to-morrow morning, nine o'clock.
Tuesday, April 4, 1775, A. M.
Upon a motion made that Capt. Goodridge have liberty to augment
his company to one hundred men, and that they be considered as ran-
gers ; thereupon, Ordered, that Capt. Goodridge apply to Col. Pater-
son on this affair, who will have an opportunity to consult the field
officers of those regiments of the militia, from which said company is
to be enlisted, and that this matter be settled as they shall think best.
The committee appointed to prepare an address to the Mohawks,
and a letter to the Rev. Mr. Kirkland, reported ; [the report was] read,,
and Ordered that the address be recommitted for amendments.
||Congress|| adjourned to three o'clock [this afternoon.]
Afternoon.
A letter to the Rev. Mr. Kirkland, and an address to the Mohawks,
amended, [were] reported, and passed, and are as follow :
Concord, April 4, 1775.
Rev. Sir : The Provincial Congress have thought it necessary to
address the sachem of the Mohawk tribe, with the rest of the five na-
tions, upon the subject of the controversy between Great Britain and
the American colonies. We were induced to take this measure, as
we have been informed that those, who are inimical to us in Canada,
have been tampering with those nations, and endeavoring to attach
them to the interest of those, who are attempting to deprive us of our
inestimable rights and privileges, and to subjugate the colonies to arbi-
trary power. From a confidence in your attachment to the cause of
liberty, and your country, we now transmit to you the enclosed ad-
dress, and desire you would deliver it to the sachem of the Mohawk
tribe, to be communicated to the rest of the five nations, and that you
would use your influence vvitii them, to join with us in the defence of
our rights; but if you cannot prevail with them to take an active part
in this glorious cause, that you would, at least, engage them to stand
neuter, and not, by any means, to aid and assist our enemies — and as
we are at a loss for the name of the sachem of the Mohawk tribe, we
have left it to you to direct the address to liiuj, in such way as you may
think proper.
^i \\:\nA tliut.ll
1775] SECOND PROVINCIAL CONGRESS. ill)
RiioTiir.iis : — Wo, the delegates of the inhabitants of the province of
the Massachusetts Bay, heinirconie t(>;irethcr,to consider what may be l)esl
for yon and onrselves to do in order to tret ourselves rid of those hard-
ships winch we feel and fear, have thought it our duty to tell you, our
good brothers, what our fathers in Great Britain have done and threaten
to do with us.
Brothers: — you have heard how our fathers were obliged, by the cru-
elty of their brethren, to leave their country; how they crossed the
great lake and came here ; how they purchased this land with their own
money, and how, since that time, they, and we, their sons and grand-
sons, have built our houses, and cut down the trees, and cleared and
improved the land, at their and our own expense ; how we have fought
for them, and conquered Canada and a great many other places, which
they have iiad, and have not paid us for ; after all which, and many other
troubles, we thought we had reason to hope, that they would -be kind
to us, and allow us to enjoy ourselves, and sit in our own houses, and
eat our own victuals in peace and quiet; but, alas! our brothers, we
are greatly distressed, and we will tell you our grief, for you, as w^ell
as we, are in great danger.
Brothers: — our fathers in Great Britain tell us, our land, and houses,
and cattle, and money, are not our own ; that we, ourselves, are not
our own men, but their servants ; they have endeavored to take away
our money without our leave, and have sent their great vessels and a
great many warriors for that purpose.
Brothers : — we used to send our vessels on the great lake, whereby we
were able to get clothes and what we needed for ourselves and you ;
but such has lately been their conduct, that we cannot; they have told
us, we shall have no more guns, no powder to use and kill our wolves
and other game, nor to send to you, for you to kill your victuals with,
and to get skins to trade with us, to buy you blankets, and what you
want. How can you live without powder and guns 1 But we hope to
supply you soon with both of our own making.
Brothers: — they have made a law to establish the religion of the pope
in Canada, which lies so near you. We much fear some of your chil-
dren may be induced, instead of worshipping the only true God, to pay
his due to images made with their own hands.
Brothers : — these and many other hardships we are threatened with,
which, no doubt, in the end, will equally affect you ; for the same rea-
son they would get our lands, they will take away yours. All we want
is, that we and you may enjoy that liberty and security, which we have
a right to enjoy, and that we may not lose that good land which en-
120 SECOND PROVINCIAL CONGRESS. [April 5,
ables us to feed our wives and children ; we think it our duty to inform
you of our danger, and desire you to give notice to all your kindred ;
and as we ||much|| fear they will attempt to cut our throats, and if you
should allow them to do that, there will nobody remain to keep them
from you, we therefore earnestly desire you to whet your hatchet and
be prepared with us to defend our liberties and lives.
Brothers : — we humbly beseech that God, who lives above and does
what is right here below, to enlighten your minds to see that you ought
llto endeavor|| to prevent our fathers from bringing those' miseries upon
us, and to his good providence we commend you.
The committee appointed to draught rules for the army, &c., again
reported ; recommitted to bring in the form of two oaths.
Adjourned to ten o'clock to-morrow morning.
Wednesday, April 5, 1775, A. M.
The committee appointed to prepare rules and regulations for the
Massachusetts army, having brought in the form of two oaths as direct-
ed, the report in whole [was read] and passed, and is as followeth :
||1n PnovjNCiAL Congress, Concord, April 5, 1775.|j
Whereas, the lust of power, which of old oppressed, persecuted, and
exiled our pious and virtuous ancestors from their fair possessions in
Britain, now pursues with ten fold severity, us, their guiltless children,
who are unjustly and wickedly charged with licentiousness, sedition,
treason, and rebellion ; and being deeply impressed with a sense of the
almost incredible fatigues and hardships our venerable progenitors en-
countered, who fled from oppression for the sake of civil and religious
liberty, for themselves and their offspring, and began a settlement here
on bare creation, at their own expense ; and having seriously consider-
ed the duty we owe to God, to the memory of such invincible worthies,
to the king, to Great Britain, our country, ourselves, and posterity, do
think it our indispensable duty, by all lawful ways and means, in our
power, to recover, maintain, defend, and preserve, the free exercise of
all those civil and religious rights and liberties, for which many
of our forefathers fought, bled, and died, and to hand them down en-
tire, for the free enjoyment of the latest posterity ; and whereas, the
keeping a standing army in any of these colonies in times of peace,
without the consent of the legislature of that colony in which such
army is kept, is against law ; and whereas, such an army, with a large
naval force, is now placed in the town and harbor of Boston, for the
purpose of subjecting us to the power of the British parliament : and,
i:7r> J SECOND PROVINCIAL CONGRESS. 121
whereas, we are frequently told by the tools of administration, dupes
to ministerial usurpation, that Great Britain will not, in any degree,
relax in her measures, until we acknowledge her " right of mak-
ing laws binding upon us in all cases whatever;" and that, if
we refuse by our denial of her claim, the dispute must be decid-
ed by arms ; in which, it is said by our enemies, "we shall have
no chance, being undisciplined, cowards, disobedient, impatient of
command, and possessed of that spirit of HMevellingH which admits of no
order, sul)ordination, rule or government; and, whereas, 1 1 from || the
ministerial army and fleet now at Boston, the large reenforcement of
troops expected, the late circular letters to the governors upon the
continent, the general tenor of intelligence from Great Britain, and the
hostile preparations making here ; as also, from the threats and repeat-
ed insults of our enemies, in the capital town, we have reason to ap-
prehend, that the sudden destruction of this province is in contempla-
tion, if not determined upon;
And, whereas, the great law of self-preservation may suddenly re-
quire our raising and keeping an army of observation and defence, in
order to prevent or repel any further attempts to ||''enforce|| the late
cruel and oppressive acts of the British parliament, which are evident-
ly designed to subject us and the whole continent to the most ignomini-
ous slavery ; and, whereas, in case of raising and keeping such an ar-
my, it will be necessary that the officers and soldiers in the same, be
fully acquainted with their duty, and that the articles, rules, and regu-
lations thereof, be made as plain as possible ; and having great confi-
dence in the honor and public virtue of the inhabitants of this colony,
that they will readily obey the officers, chosen by themselves, and will
cheerfully do their duty when known, without any such severe articles
and rules, (except in capital cases,) and cruel punishments as are usu-
ally practised in standing armies ; and will submit to all such rules and
regulations as are founded in reason, honor and virtue : it is therefore,
Resolved, that the following articles, rules, and regulations for the ar-
my, that may be raised for the defence and security of our lives, liber-
ties, and estates, be, and hereby are, earnestly recommended to be
strictly adhered to by all officers, soldiers, and others concerned, as
they regard their own honor and the public good.
Art. 1. All officers and soldiers, not having just impediment,
shall diligently frequent divine service and sermon, in the places ap-
pointed for the assembling of the regiment, troop, or company, to which
a ||revelliiig.|| b ||force.|)
16
122 SECOND PROVINCIAL CONGRESS. [April 5,
they belong, and such as wilfully absent themselves, or, being present,
behave indecently or irreverently, shall, if commissioned officers, [be]
brought before a regimental court martial, there to be publicly and se-
verely 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 the second offence, he
shall not only forfeit one shilling, but be confined twenty-four hours :
and for every like offence [after,] shall suffer and pay in like manner ;
which money so forfeited, shall be applied to the use of the sick sol-
diers of the troop or company to which the offender belongs.
Art. 2. Whatsoever non commissioned officer or soldier shall iise
any unlawful oath or execration, shall incur the penalties expressed in
the ||*first|| article; and if a commissioned officer be thus guilty of pro-
fane cursing and swearing, he shall forfeit and pay for each and every
such offence four shillings, lawful money.
Art. 3. Any officer or soldier who shall behave himself with contempt
or disrespect toward the general or generals, or commanders in chief
of the Massachusetts forces, or shall speak words tending to his or
their hurt or dishonor, shall be punished, according to the nature of his
offence, by the judgment of a general court martial. i
Art. 4. Any officer or soldier, who shall begin, excite, cause, ||''or
join in anyj] mutiny or sedition, in the regiment, troop, or company,
to which he belongs, or in any other regiment, troop, or company of
the Massachusetts forces, either by land or sea, or in any party, post,
detachment, or guard, on any pretence whatever, shall suffer such pun-
ishment as by a general court martial shall be ordered.
Art. 5. Any officer, non commissioned officer, or soldier, who, be-
ing present at any mutiny or sedition, does not use his utmost endeav-
ors to suppress the same, or, coming to the knowledge of any mutiny,
does not, without delay, give information thereof to his commanding
officer, shall be punished by order of a general court martial, accord-
ing to the nature of his offence.
Art. C. Any officer or soldier, who shall strike his superior officer,
or draw, or offer to draw, [his sword,] or shall lift up any weapon, or
offer any violence against him, being in the execution of his office, on
any pretence whatever, or shall disobey any lawful comnuuids of his
superior officer, shall suffer such punishment, as shall, according to
the nature of his offence, be ordered by the sentence of a general court
martial.
, a ||precoding.|| b ||any mutiny, or scilition, or join in such.||
(1) In the copy, the third article is numbered fourth, and the fourth article inserted in the place of
the third.
1775.] SECOND PROVINCIAL CONGRESS. 123
AiiT. 7. Any noii commissioned officer or soldier, who shall desert,
or without ItMve from his commftiidinjr officer, absent himsflf, 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. 8. Whatever officer or soldier shall be convicted of having ad-
vised, 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. 9. All officers, of what condition soever, shall have power to
part and quell all quarrels, frays, and disorders, though the persons
concerned should belong to another regiment, troop, or company, and
order officers to be arrested, or non commissioned officers or soldiers
to be confined, and imprisoned, till their proper superior officers can
be made acquainted therewith ; and whoever shall refuse to obey such
officer, though of an inferior rank, or shall draw his sword upon him,
shall be punished at the discretion of a general court martial.
Art. 10. No officer or soldier shall use any reproachful or provok-
ing speeches or gestures ; nor shall 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 as a princi-
pal ; and whatsoever officer or soldier shall upbraid another for refus-
ing a challenge, shall be considered as a challenger ; and all such of-
fenders in any of these or the like cases, shall be punished at the dis-
cretion of a general court martial.
Art. 11. 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 to any ofiicer or soldier under
his command ; if, upon any complaint made to him of officers or
soldiers Jl^beatingH or otherwise ill treating any person, or of commit-
ting any kind of riots, to the disquieting of the inhabitants of this con-
tinent, he, the said commander, shall refuse or omit to see justice
done to the offender or offenders, and reparation made to the par-
ty or parties injured, as soon as the offender's wages shall enable him
or them, [he] shall, upon due proof thereof, be punished, as ordered by a
general court martial, in such manner, as if he himself had committed
the crimes or disorders complained of.
Art. 12. If any officer should think himself to be wronged by his
a l|nor shall second, promote, or rarry any challenge. |(
b ||or shall lecond any such conduct. || c ||breaking.||
124 SECOND PROVINCIAL CONGRESS. [April 5,
colonel or the 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 Massachusetts forces, in
order to obtain justice, who is hereby required to examine into the com-
plaint and see that justice be done.
Art. 13. If any inferior officer or soldier shall think himself wronged
by his captain or other officer commanding 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 mar-
tial for the doing justice to the ||^complainant;|l from which regimental
court martial, either party may, if he thinks himself still aggrieved,
appeal to a general court martial ; but if, upon a second hearing, the
appeal shall appear to be vexatious and groundless, the person so ap-
pealing shall be punished at the discretion of a general court martial.
Art 14. Whatsoever non commissioned officer or soldier shall be
convicted at a regimental court martial, of having sold, or designedly,
or through neglect, wasted the ammunition, arms, or provisions, or
other military stores delivered out to him to be employed in the ser-
vice of this colony, shall, if an officer, be reduced to a private sentinel,
and, if a private soldier, shall suffer such punishment as shall be order-
ed by a regimental court martial.
Art. 15. All non commissioned officers or soldiers, who shall be
found one mile from the camp, without leave in writing from their com-
manding officer, shall suffer such punishment as shall be inflicted on
him or them, by the sentence of a regimental court martial.
Art. 16. No officer or soldier shall ||''lie|| out of his quarters, or
camp, without leave from the commanding officer of the regiment, upon
penalty of being punished, according to the nature of his offence, by
order of a regimental court martial.
Art. 17. Every non commissioned officer and soldier shall retire to
his quarters, or tent, at the beating the retreat ; in default of which, he
shall be punished, according to the nature of his offence, by order of
the commanding officer.
Art. 18. No officer, non commissioned officer, or soldier, shall fail
of repairing, at the time fixed, to the place of parade, of exercise, or
other rendezvous, appointed by the commanding officer, if not prevent-
ed 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 dismissed, or relieved,
a ||conipliiint.|| b ||be.l|
1775.] SECOND PROVINCIAL CONGRESS. 125
on penalty of being punished, according to the nature of his offence,
by the sentence of a regimental court martial.
Art. 19. Whatsoever commissioned officer shall be found drunk
upon 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. 20. Whatever sentinel shall be found sleeping upon his post,
or shall leave it before he shall be regularly relieved, shall suffer such
punishment as shall be ordered by the sentence of a general court
martial.
Art. 21. Any person belonging to the Massachusetts army, who, by
discharging of tire-arms, beating of drums, or by any other means
whatever, shall occasion false alarms in camp or in quarters, shall suffer
such punishment as shall be ordered by the sentence of a general court
martial.
Art. 22. Any officer or soldier who shall, without urgent necessity,
or without leave of his superior officer, quit his platoon or division,
shall be punished, according to the nature of his offence, by the sen-
tence of a regimental court martial.
Art. 23. 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 Massachusetts army; any officer or sol-
dier so offending, shall, upon complaint being made to the command-
ing officer, suffer such punishment as shall be ordered by a regimental
court martial.
Art. 24. Whatever officer or soldier shall shamefully abandon any
post committed to his cliarge, or shall speak words inducing others to
do the like, in time of an engagement, shall suffer death immediately.
Art. 25. Any person belonging to the Massachusetts army, 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 parol or watchword different from what he received, shall suf-
fer death, or such other punishment as shall be ordered by a general
court martial.
Art. 26. Whosoever, belonging to the Massachusetts army, shall
relieve the enemy with money, victuals, or ammunition, or shall know-
ingly harbor and protect an enemy, shall suffer such punishment, as, by
a general court martial, shall be ordered.
Art. 27. Whosoever, belonging to the Massachusetts army, shall be
convicted of holding correspondence with, or giving intelligence to
126 SECOND PROVINCIAL CONGRESS. [April 5,
the enemy, either directly or indirectly, shall suffer such punishment
as, by a general court martial, shall be ordered.
Art. 28. All public stores, taken in the enemy's camp, whether of
artillery, ammunition, clothing, or provisions, shall be secured for the
use of the Massachusetts colony.
Art. 29. If any officer or soldier shall leave his post or colors, in
time of an engagement, to go in search of plunder, he shall, upon be-
ing convicted thereof before a general court martial, suffer such pun-
ishment as, by said court martial, shall be ordered.
Art. 30. If any commander of any post, entrenchment 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 or
soldiers, who shall be convicted of having so offended, shall suffer
death, or such other punishment as may be inflicted upon them by the
sentence of a general court martial.
Art. 31. All ||''sutlers|| and retailers to a camp, and all persons
whatsoever serving with the Massachusetts army, in the field, though
not ll'^enlistedll soldiers, are to be subject to the articles, rules and regu-
lations of the Massachusetts army.
Art. 32. No general court martial shall consist of a less number
than thirteen, none of which shall be under the degree of a field 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. 33. The members both of general and regimental courts mar-
tial 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
commissions, by which they are mustered in the said corps.
Art. 34. All the members of a court martial are to behave with
calmness, decency and impartiality ; and in the giving of their votes,
are to begin with the youngest, or lowest in commission.
Art. 35. No field officer shall be tried by any person under the de-
gree of a captain ; nor shall any proceeding or trial be carried on, ex-
cepting between the hours of eight in the morning and three in the
afternoon, except in cases which require an immediate example.
Art. 36. The commissioned officers of every regiment may, by the
appointment of their colonel or commanding officer, hold regimental
a ||seller3.|| b ||eiititleil.|| r ||raiik.|!
1775.] SECOND PROVINCIAL CONGRESS. 127
courts inarlial lor tlie inquiring into sucli disputes or criminal mutters
as may come before tlieni, and for the inllicting corpor.d punishment for
sniidl ofVenccs, and sliiUl give judgment by the majority of voices; but
no sentence shall be executed, till the commanding oflicer, not being a
member of the court martial, shall have confirmed the same.
Akt. 37. No regimental court martial shall consist of less than five
officers, excepting in cases when that number cannot be conveniently
assembled, when three may be sufficient : who are likewise to deter-
mine upon the sentence, by the majority of voices; which sentence is
to be confirmed by the commanding officer, not being a member of the
court martial.
Art. 38. Any officer commanding in forts, castles, or barracks, or
elsewhere, where the corps under his command consists of detach-
ments from different regiments, or of independent companies, may
assemble courts martial, for the trial of offenders in the same manner,
as if they were regimental ; whose sentence is not to be executed till
it shall be confirmed by the said commanding officer.
Art. 39. No person whatsoever shall use menacing 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 proceeding, on penalty of
being punished at the discretion of said court martial.
Art. 40. To the end that offenders may be brought to justice, when-
ever 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 commissioned officer or soldier, be imprisoned ; till he shall be
either tried by a court martial, or shall be lawfully discharged by pro-
per authority.
Art. 41. No officer or soldier who shall be put in arrest or impri-
sonment, shall continue in his confinement more than eight days, or
till such time as a court martial can be conveniently a.ssemb]ed.
Art. 42. No officer commanding a guard, or provost martial, shall
refuse to receive or keep any prisoner committed to his charge by any
officer belonging to the Massachusetts forces; which officer shall,
[with the prisoner] at the same time, deliver an account in writing,
signed by himself, of the crimes with which the said prisoner is
charged.
Art. 43. No officer commanding a guard, or provost martial, shall
presume to release any prisoner committed to his charge, without pro-
per 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.
128 SECOND PROVINCIAL CONGRESS. [April 5,
Art. 44. Every officer or provost martial, to whose charge prisoners
shall be committed, is hereby required, within twenty-four hours of
such confinement, 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 belong-
ing to the said regiment, and ["^where] 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 his being punished for his disobedience or
neglect at the discretion of a general court martial.
Art. 45. And if any officer under arrest shall leave his confinement
before he is set at liberty by the officer who confined him, or by a su-
perior power, he shall be cashiered for it.
Art. 46. Whatsoever commissioned officer shall be convicted before
a general court martial, of behaving in a scandalous, infamous man-
ner, such as is unbecoming an officer and a gentleman, shall be dis-
charged from the service.
Art. 47. All officers, conductors, gunners, matrosses, drivers, or
any other persons whatever, receiving pay or hire in the service of the
Massachusetts artillery, shall be governed by the aforesaid rules and
articles, and shall be subject to be tried by courts martial in like man-
ner with the officers and soldiers of the Massachusetts troops.
Art. 48. For differences arising amongst themselves, or in matters
relating solely to their own corps, the courts martial may be composed
of their own officers ; but where a number sufficient 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
corps.
Art. 49. 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 mar-
tial, according to the nature and degree of the offence, and be punish-
ished at their discretion.
Art. 50. No court martial shall order any offender to be whipped or
receive more than thirty-nine stripes for any one offence.
Art. 51. The field officers of each and every regiment, are to ap-
point 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
a ||rcl.-asr(l.|| b ||liis.|| <■ [that.]
1775.] SECOND PROVINCIAL CONGRESS. 129
foregoing articles, and shall direct the same to be carefully and pro-
perly applied to the relief of such sick, wounded, or nece.ssitous sol-
diers as belong to such regiment, and such person shall account with
such officer for all fines received and the application thereof.
AiiT. ii'l. All members sitting in courts martial, shall I)e sworn by
the president of said courts, which president shall himself be sworn by
the officer in said court next in rank ; the oaths to be administered
previous to their proceeding to the trial of any offender, [to be] in
form following : — You A B swear, that you will well and truly try and
impartially determine the cause of the prisoner now to be tried, ac-
cording to the rules for regulating the Massachusetts army. So help
you God.
Art. 53. 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 discretion of such court martial. The oath to be
administered in the form following : — You swear, the evidence you
shall give, in the case in hearing, shall be the truth, the whole truth,
and nothing but the truth. So help you God.
Resolved, That the inhabitants of the town of Northfield be desired ,
in consideration of the bodily indisposition of their present member,
Mr. Ebenezer Jones, which prevents his attendance, to add one other
member to him, in order that their town may be represented in Con-
gress, who are very desirous that the wisdom of the province may be
collected at this critical juncture of our public affairs.
The committee, appointed to take into consideration the application
of the committee from Boston, and others, reported that the papers
lie on the table for farther consideration at some future day.
Adjourned to three o'clock in the afternoon.
Afternoon.
Ordered, That the committee on the state of the province be di-
rected to sit.
Congress adjourned till to-morrow morning, ten o'clock.
Thursday, April 6, 1775, A. M.
[On] an application from the committees of inspection of Taunton, and
all the other towns in the county of Bristol, setting forth that General
Gage had applied to five justices in said county, to provide quarters
for two hundred of his majesty's troops, which may be sent to the
town of Freetown : W'WOrdered, That Mr. Murray, Doct. Gunn, Col.
a (|tliereupon.||
17
130 SECOND PROVINCIAL CONGRESS. [April 6,
Pomeroy, Col. Cushing, Mr. Freeman, Capt. Holmes and Mr. Watson,
be a committee to take the said application into consideration and re-
port thereon.
||Congress|| adjourned till twelve o'clock at noon.
Met and adjourned to four o'clock, P. M.
Afternoon.
The committee appointed to take into consideration the application
[from] all the towns in the county of Bristol, reported ; [the report
was] amended and passed unanimously, and is as followeth :
Gentlemen : — Your very interesting letter of the fourth instant, di-
rected to the president, has been early laid before us. Heartily affected
with the matters it contains, this Congress resolved on the immediate
consideration of it. The part acted by Col. Gilbert respecting the com-
mon cause of America, since the commencement of its public troubles,
is sufficiently consonant to the tenor of his ordinary conduct, so far as
it has been the object of public observation ; and leaves no American
room to hesitate in pronouncing him an inveterate enemy to his coun-
try, to reason, justice, and the common rights of mankind ; and, there-
fore, whoever has knowingly espoused his cause, or taken up arms for
its support, does, in common with himself, deserve to be instantly cut
off from the benefit of commerce with, or countenance of, any friend
of virtue, America, or the human race.
This Congress cannot but rejoice in the satisfactory evidence they
have of the patriotism and public spirit of the county of Bristol, and
the vigilance of its inhabitants over the manoeuvres of the incendia-
ries among them ; we are much pleased with their joint readiness, for
their most vigorous exertions in their country's cause, and earnestly
hope that their preparations will be pursued with unabated zeal, as the
known resolutions of our public enemies, have, at last, necessitated
the contemplation of a plan of general defence, in support of which,
the spirit and prowess of the county of Bristol may very soon be called
up to the view of mankind.
We earnestly recommend it to you, gentlemen, as guardians of the
public interest, to exert yourselves, that the militia, and especially the
minute men of your county, be found in the best posture of defence,
whenever any exigence may require this aid ; but the plans laid for
the general good oblige us to request that whatever patience and for-
bearance it may require for the present, you would act on the defen-
sive only, until the further direction of this Congress.
And, therefore, though we could wish that a particular account of
the conduct of Col. Gilbert and his adherents, as well as of the king's
1775.] SECOND PROVINCIAL CONGRESS. i:{l
troops, whilst stationed ainoiiff you, mic;lit be taken on sufficient evi-
dence in pcrpctuam rci memoriam, yet we could not advise to any meas-
ures, either with respect to said Gilbert and his banditti, or the king's
troops, that our enemies might plausibly interpret as a commencement
of hostilities.
This Congress, however, are clearly of opinion, that, whatever jus-
tice of the peace, or other person in the county of Bristol, shall be
active in providing quarters, or other supplies, for the said troops, or
any others sent in like manner, will be considered by all America as
aiding and assisting in the execution of the [acts of the] British par-
liament, against which, as fundamentally destructive of the most inval-
uable rights and privileges of the colonies, America has unitedly re-
monstrated.
In Provincial Congress, Concord, April 6, 1775.
Resolved, That the foregoing be signed by the president, in behalf
of the Congress, and sent to the committees of inspection of the
county of Bristol.
Ordered, That the application from the selectmen of Billerica, and
the application from the committee of correspondence of the town of
Boston and others,^ be again committed to the committee, who had
them under consideration, and reported that they lie on the table. The
committee was ordered to sit immediately.
Adjourned to ten o'clock to-morrow morning.
(1) These applications related to an outraj^e on a citizen of Billerica, named Thomas Ditson,
Jun. The story of his wrongs, which created ^rcat sensation, is told in the following narrative
copied from the Massachusetts Spy, March 10, 1775.
" The act of tarring and feathering not repealed." — " Last Thursday morning, a countryman
was tarred and feathered, and curried through some of the streets, in this town, hy a party of sol-
diers, attended hy some officers. The following is the man's own deposition relative to that affair,
sworn to hefore a magistrate ; upon which wc sliall make no remarks, l)ut leave the public 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."
" I, Thomas Ditson, Jun., of Billerica, husbandman, testify and declare, that, while walking in
Fore street, on the 8th of March, in the afternoon, I inquired of some townsmen, 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 seeing some old clothes about the house, I asked whether they sold such things ; the sergeant
replied that they did frequently. I then asked his price for an old red coat ript to pieces ; he asked
8s. 6d. sterling ; but I refused to give it. Then one M'Clinchy, 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 ho called
a sergeant, and she soon brought an old coat and an old jacket. 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 a writing
if I desired it, but said there was no occasion. I then bought the coat and jacket, and gave two
pistareens, and then put the clothes in a bag, which I left behind ; after which 1 went to M'Clin-
chy to see his gun, which he said was a very fine piece. I asked him if he hud any right to sell it.
He replied he had, and that the gun was his to dispose of at any time. I then asked him whether
he thought the sentry would not take it from me at the ferry, as I had beard that some persons had
132 SECOND PROVINCIAL CONGRESS. [April 7,
Friday, April 7, 1775, A. M.
Ordered, That Doct. Warren and Doct. Church be added to the
committee on the state of the province.
had their guns taken from thera, but never thought there was any law against trading with a sol-
dier. He then told me he had stood sentry, and that they frequently let them pass. He then
asked me what I would give him for the gun ? I told him I 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. I
then agreed to give four dollars for his gun, but did not take it nor pay the money ; coming away,
he follows me down stairs, and says, that there was a sergeant had an old rusty piece, that he would
sell cheap. I asked him his price ; he said he would sell it for one dollar and an 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, M'Clenchy, what are you going to do, to bring the 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 for 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 for fear of what his wife had said ; he then declared there was no danger, for he had
spoken to the officer 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 guns, which I then refused, and desired I might have the one
and half dollar back which I had paid 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 I saw
was some men coming up. I stept off to go after my great coat, but they followed and seized me,
and carried me to the guard-house upon Foster'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 or
heard of. I was detained till about seven in the morning, when I expected I should have been
obliged to pay the £5 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 ordered me to strip. I tlien 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 bier of feathers. I was then made
to strip, which I did to my breeches. They then tarred 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 I 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 villain who at-
tempted to entice one of the soldiers of liis majesty's 47th 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, armed with guns and fixed bayonets, surrounded the trucks, and they marched with a num-
ber of officers before them, one of whom, I am told, was the colonel of the 47th regiment, who I
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 governor's house,
until they came to liberty tree ; then they turned up Frog lane and made a halt, and a sergeant, as I
took him to be, said get down : I then asked where I should go, and he said where you
please. Near the governor's house the inhabitants pressed in upon the soldiers ; the latter ap-
peared to me to be angry, and I was afraid they would have fired, they being ordered to load their
muskets, which they did. THOMAS DITSON, Jun."
This narrative was verified by the oath of the deponent, March 9, 1775, before Edmund (iuincy,
Esq.
The selectmen of Billerica presented the following spirited i)rotest against the cruel outrage of
the soldiers, to general Gage.
" May it please your excellency .- —
" We, the selectmen of the town of Billerica, beg leave to remonstrate to your excellency, that
on the eighth day of this instant March, one Thomas Ditson, an inhabitant of said town of Bille-
1775.] SECOND PROVINCIAL CONGRESS. 133
Mr. Crane laid on tlir tal)k' a immber of letters, whicli were sent to
him Iroiii Stou(fliton, and said to be from Col. Gilbert and others.
OidtrrJ, Tliat Col. Thomas, Mr. Devens, Mr. Gardner, Doct. Per-
kins and Mr. Crane, be a committee to take them into consideration
and report ; they reported W'W that they be read.
Ordered, That the committee on the state of the province be direct-
ed to wait on the Hon. governor Hopkins and the Hon. governor Ses-
sions, and congratulate them on their arrival lo this town, and hold a
conference with them on the present state of our pul)lic affairs.
The committee appointed to consider on tlic application from Billeri-
ca, &c. reported ; the report [was] amended, accepted and is as fol-
lows :
In Provinci.\l Congress, \\Concord,\\ April 7, 1775.
Resolved, That the following letter be signed by the president, and
directed to the selectmen of Billerica :
Gentlemen : — This Congress, deeply sensible of the high-handed
insult offered the town of Billerica, the colony of the Massachusetts
Bay, and this continent in general, in the vile and ignoble assault in
the person of Thomas Ditson, by a party of the king's troops under
rica, was tarred and feathered, and very much abused, by a party of his inajcsty's 47th 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, wo cannot but resent this procedure. Your excel-
lency must be sensible, that this act is a high infraction of that personal security, which every En-
glishman is entitled to, and without 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 en-
forcing obedience to acts of parliament of Great Britain, in the liighest sense iniquitous, cruel and
unjust. It is still more unhappy, 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 proper 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 ex-
cellency, that you never meant to disturb the intercourse between the town and country. Confid-
ing in this, we have passed and repassed in our usual manner. We, therefore, hope your excellen-
cy 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 tlie end, we unhappily find, are not to be depended
upon. Lieutenant colonel Nesbit is an officer under your excellency's command. Of you, there-
fore, 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 the brutality of the troops, still be increased. Wo 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 driven to
the last distress of nations. But, may it please your excellency, we must tell you, that we are de-
termined, 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 tlic most brutal ferocity, we shall, hereafter, use a different style from that of petition
and complaint."
" If the grand bulwarks of our constitution are thus violently torn away, and the powers on
earth prove unfriendly to the cause of virtue, liberty and humanity, we are still happy that we can
appeal to Him who judgeth righteously, and to Him we cheerfully leave the event."
a Ijas expedient. II
134 SECOND PROVINCIAL CONGRESS. [April 7,
general Gage's command, do highly approve of the manly and resolute
conduct of the town of Billerica, by their manifesting a due resent-
ment to the general, and demanding a constitutional satisfaction.
Notwithstanding you have not received that satisfaction from the
general which you had a just right to expect, yet this Congress humbly
hope, under Providence, that the time is fast approaching, when this
colony and continent will have justice done them, in a way consistent
with the dignity of freemen, on such wicked destroyers of the natural
and constitutional rights of Americans. Gentlemen, we are confident
that the town of Billerica will still continue in that candid pursuit of
peace and good order, which manifestly appears in their late conduct.
Ordered, That the letters which have been received or laid on the
table by Mr. Crane, be sent to the committee on the state of the prov-
ince.ini
Afternoon.
The committee appointed to take into consideration the application
from the committee of correspondence of Boston and others, reported ;
the report [was] read and accepted, and is as follows :
Gentlemen : — Your petition and memorial of the 31st of March
we have received ; since which, intelligence of the most extraordinary
nature from Great Britain has come to hand. We are, gentlemen,
much pleased with the spirit and sentiment of your memorial : but,
as ll^natters of the greatest importance|] now demand our immediate
attention, and the consideration of them will take up the most impor-
tant matters in your petition ; we, therefore, most earnestly recom-
mend to you, gentlemen, as guardians of the public interest, to exert
yourselves that the militia and minute men of your counties, be found
in the best posture of defence, whenever any exigence may require
their aid ; but as the plans laying for the general good oblige us to re-
quest, that, whatever patience and forbearance it may require, you
would act only on the defensive, until the farther order of this Con-
gress.
And, therefore, though we could wish a particular account of the
ministers' troops, while stationed among you, might be taken on suffi-
cient evidence, yet we could not advise to any measures, respecting
them, that our enemies might plausibly interpret as a commencement
of hostilities : but, on the contrary, let your characteristic be, as it
always has been, |pregard|| of peace and good order, and the just
rights of mankind.
11 ||A(ljouriieil till three o'clock this afternoon. ||
b ||the greatest and most important matters. || c ||con8crvator8.(|
1775.] SECOND PROVINCIAL CONGRESS. ia5
We most earnestly wisli tlint the blessing of Heaven may accompany
your liuuiable endeavors to preserve the public weal of this province.
We remain, [&.C.]
In Puovi.Nci.vL Congress, Concord, April 7, 1775.
Resolved, That the foregoing letter be signed by the president, in
behalf of this Congress, and sent to the committees of correspondence
of the towns of Boston, Milton, Roxbury, Dorchester, Cambridge,
Newton, Watertown, Lynn, Maiden, Woburn, Charlestown and Marl-
borough, directed to William Cooper, clerk of said committees of cor-
respondence.
Ordered, That Capt. Osgood, Major Fuller of Middleton, and Mr.
Webster, be added to the committee appointed to disperse the hand-
bills, &-C.
||The Congressll adjourned till to-morrow morning, at nine o'clock.
Saturday, April 8, 1775, A. M.
[The] doorkeeper [was] directed to call in the members, and to call
none out till the farther order of this Congress.
The committee on the state of the province reported a resolve rela-
tive to raising and establishing an army, and that committees be
appointed forthwith to repair to Connecticut, Rhode Island and New-
Hampshire, to inform them of our resolution, and desire their co-ope-
ration, &/C.
Resolved, That the report be considered in paragraphs : Ordered,
that the members be enjoined to attend.
Adjourned to three o'clock in the afternoon.
.Vfternoon.
The Congress resumed the consideration of the report made in the
forenoon, which passed: present 103 [members:] in favor 96 — [which
report] is as follows :
In Provincial Congress, Concord, April 8, 1775.
Resolved, That the present dangerous and alarming situation of our
public affairs, renders it necessary for this colony to make preparations
for their security and defence, by raising and establishing an army,
and that delegates be appointed forthwith to repair to Connecticut,
Rhode Island and New-Hampshire, informing them that we are con-
templating upon, and are determined to take effectual measures for
that purpose ; and for the more effectual security of the New England
colonies and the continent, to request them to co-operate with us, by
furnishing their respective quotas for general defence.
136 SECOND PROVINCIAL CONGRESS. [April 10,
Resolved, That there be sent two delegates to each New England
colony with the above resolve.
Resolved, That the Congress choose in the first place delegates to
repair to Connecticut : accordingly chose Col. Foster and Mr. Bliss.
Resolved, That they choose in the second place delegates to repair
to Rhode Island : accordingly chose Col. Timothy Walker and Doct.
Perkins.
Resolved, That in the third place the Congress choose delegates to
repair to New Hampshire : accordingly chose Mr. Freeman and
Capt. Osgood.
Ordered, That Mr. Gerry, Mr. Adams and Capt. Osgood draught a
letter to each of the colonies, viz. : Connecticut, Rhode Island and
New Hampshire.
Resolved, That the committee on the state of the province take into
consideration what number of men, in their opinion, will be necessary
to be raised by the four New England governments for their general
defence, and report.
Adjourned to Monday next, nine o'clock in the forenoon.
Monday, AprU 10, 1775, A. M.
The committee appointed to draught a letter to the colonies of Con-
necticut, Rhode Island and New Hampshire, reported ; the report
[was] read and accepted, and is as follows :
In Provincial Congress, Concord, April 10, H'lTTS.]]
Sir, or Gentlemen : — In consideration of the measures that have
been taken by the British administration, to subjugate the North
American colonies; the rapidity with which their plans have been
hitherto executed ; the late very alarming intelligence from Great
Britain ; the false and inflammatory accounts that have been laid be-
fore our sovereign and his parliament, to induce them to consider this
colony as in a state of rebellion, and our sister colonies as counte-
nancing us therein, and the violent measures that are ordered, in con-
sequence thereof, together with the daily and hourly preparations there
are making by the troops under the command of general Gage, in
Boston ; this Congress have come to a full conclusion, that very little,
if any expectation of the redress of our common and intolerable
grievances is to be had from the humble and dutiful petition and other
wise measures of the late honorable Continental Congress ; and
1775.] SECOND PROVINCIAL CONGRESS. 137
therefore have come into certain resolutions to be communicated to
you by delegates, appointed for tliat purpose, in which they are earn-
estly desirous of the concurrence of your colony.
Wishing that the American colonies may, at this important crisis,
be under the direction of Heaven, I am, in the name and by order of
the Congress, [&c.]
Ordered, That the foregoing be signed by the president, in the name
and behalf of this Congress.
Ordered, That the committee on the state of the province take into
consideration, and report, what number of men, in their opinion, will
be necessary for the army ["proposed] to be raised.
Resolved, That there be ||''an addition of three|l to the delegates ap-
pointed to repair to the neighboring governments, and that this Con-
gress ll'come to the choice of them|| at three o'clock this afternoon,
by ballot.
Adjourned to three o'clock this afternoon.
Afternoon.
The order of the day [was] moved for.
Ordered, That Major Fuller, Capt. Greenleaf and Mr. Ellis, be a
committee to count and sort the votes for the gentlemen to be added
to the delegates appointed to repair to Connecticut, Rhode Island and
New Hampshire, and that they bring in their votes for a gentleman to
repair to Connecticut.
Having | [counted and|| sorted the votes, [the committee] reported
that the Hon. Timothy Danielson, Esq. was chosen.
Ordered, That votes be brought in for a gentleman to be added to
the delegates appointed to repair to Rhode Island,
After counting and sorting the votes, [the committee] reported that
the Hon. James Warren, Esq. was chosen.
Ordered, That votes be brought in for a gentleman to be added to
the delegates appointed to repair to New Hampshire.
After counting and sorting the votes, [the committee] reported that
Mr. Elbridge Gerry was chosen.
Ordered, That the committee on the state of the province be di-
rected to draught such instructions as they shall think necessary to be
given to the delegates appointed to repair to the neighboring govern-
ments, and report.
The committee on the state of the province reported a resolve, rela-
tive to exercising the minute men in battalions, and that they be paid
a [prepared.] b ||three added.|| c l|choose them.||
18
138 SECOND PROVINCIAL CONGRESS. [April 11,
out of the public treasury, &c. : Ordered, that the consideration of
this report be deferred till to-morrow morning, ten o'clock.
||Congress|| adjourned till to-morrow morning, nine o'clock.
Tuesday, April 11, 1775, A. M.
The committee on the state of the province reported instructions to
the delegates appointed to repair to Connecticut, &c. ; [which report
was] read and accepted, and Ordered, that it be signed by the presi-
dent, and is as follows :
In Provincial Congress, Concord, April 11, 1775.
Gentlemen : — The thorough knowledge you have of our public
affairs, and the distressed circumstances of this devoted province,
makes it unnecessary to be particular in any instructions with regard
to the important trust committed to your care.
We would, notwithstanding, in general, give you some hints, which
may serve to cement and continue that union which has so happily taken
place in this continent. In order to effect these desirable ends, [we in-
struct you] that, ||as|l soon as maybe, you repair to Connecticut, and en-
deavor to obtain such an early conference with the governor and com-
pany of that colony as the pressing exigencies of our affairs may demand :
and as an immediate exertion of our united efforts to recover and main-
tain those invaluable blessings of liberty, which are, in part, wrested from
us by the hands of arbitrary power, and of which we have no other
prospect of a restoration, under God, but by the firm and unsha-
ken resolutions and conduct of America ; and as ministerial ven-
geance appears to be levelled at the north east colonies in particular,
it is of the utmost importance, that immediate measures, such as are
consonant with the union of all the colonies, be pursued for their mu-
tual defence ; and that you would endeavor to obtain an explicit and full
answer, so that we may unitedly exert our strength in the common
cause for the salvation of our country ; and to this end we would re-
commend your continuance there until this important purpose may be
effected, which we presume will be as soon as circumstances will ad-
mit ; you will, however, govern yourselves with respect to time and
conferences, as to you, in your wisdom, shall seem meet; and may God
bless your endeavors for the common good.
Ordered, That the letter to New Hampshire be directed to the Hon.
John Wentworth, Esq.
A letter from Mr. Barber [was] read ; thereupon Ordered, that it be
177.>.] SECOND PROVINCIAL CONGRESS. 130
committed to Doct. Holteii, Mr. Sargeant and Col. Ponieroy, to con-
sider tlioreof and report. The committee thereon reported verbally,
tliat Col. Thompson be desired immediately to repair to Brunswick,
Casco Bay, Woolwich, Georgetown, and other places, and take the
most effectual measures to acquaint the people that one Mr. Perry is
in the eastern part of the country, endeavoring to supply our enemies
with masts, spars and timber, and to make use of all proper and effec-
tual measures to prevent their aiding him in procuring said articles.
Moved, That the propriety of this Congress advising the inhabitants
of the town of Boston to be moved from thence, be now taken into
consideration. After a long debate thereon, Resolved, that a commit-
tee be appointed to take into consideration the particular state of the
town of Boston, and report. Accordingly, Mr. Sargent, Mr. Murray,
Col. Henshaw, Capt. Stone, Mr. Cross, Major Fuller of Middleton,
Doct. Taylor and Col. Prescott were chosen.
Ordered, That [Mr.] Murray be joined to the committee on the
state of the province.
[^Adjourned till ten o'clock to-morrow morning.
Wednesday, Apiil 12, 1775, A. M.
The committee on the state of the province reported a resolve, rela-
tive to appointing county committees to receive returns from the com-
mittees of correspondence, of the state of their towns, &-c., [which
was] read and accepted, and is as follows :
In Provincial Congress, Concord, April 12, 1775.
Whereas, the preservation of our county from slavery depends, un-
der God, on an effectual execution of the continental and provincial
measures for that purpose :
Resolved, That there be now appointed for each county in this col-
ony, a committee, consisting of five persons, any three of whom to be
a quorum, whose business it shall be to receive from the committees of
correspondence in their respective towns, a state of the conduct of
the towns and districts with respect to their having executed the con-
tinental and provincial plans, as aforesaid ; and it shall be the duty of
said committees to meet on the first Wednesdays of May, July, Sep-
tember, November, January and March, and prepare a report of the
same, to be laid before the Congress at its then next session, that any
neglect of such towns and districts in executing such plans may be
speedily and effectually remedied.
Also, Resolved, That it be, and it hereby is strongly recommended
140 SECOND PROVINCIAL CONGRESS. [April 12,
to the committees of correspondence in the several towns and districts
in this colony, sometime before the first Wednesdays in May, July,
September, November, January and March aforesaid, to render to any
one of the members of their county aforesaid, a true state of the
conduct of their respective towns and districts, with respect to their
having used each plan, recommended by the Continental and Provin-
cial Congresses, and to use their utmost diligence for this important
purpose.
And, whereas, some towns and districts in this colony may be desti-
tute of so excellent an institution as committees of correspondence:
Resolved, That it be and it hereby is strongly recommended to such
towns and districts forthwith to choose the committees of correspond-
ence, and to afford them assistance, at all times, in effectually suppress-
ing the efforts of the enemies of America whenever they shall make
them.
||*Also,|l Resolved, T\\^t the county committees are hereby required
to render their account quarterly, to this Congress, that they may re-
ceive an order therefor on the public treasury of the colony.
Resolved, That at three o'clock this afternoon the Congress will
come to the choice of the county committees.
Resolved, That the members from each county be together, and
agree on gentlemen to constitute their county committee.
The Congress renewed the consideration of the report of the com-
mittee on the state of the province, relative to exercising the minute
men in battalions, and paying them for the time they spend in that
service. After a long debate the question was put, whether the report
be accepted ; it passed in the negative.
Adjourned to three o'clock this afternoon.
Afternoon.
The order of the day [was] moved for.
The county of Suffolk having nominated, the Congress chose Mr.
John Pitts, Mr. Nathaniel ||''Bailey,l| Col. Aaron Davis, Mr. Moses
Bullen and Mr. Abner Ellis.
Essex. — Joseph Gerrish, Esq., Col. Michael Farley, Major Samuel
Holten, Capt. Samuel Osgood, Capt. Josiah Batchelder.
Middlesex. — James Prescot, Esq., Major Eleazer Brooks, Mr.
Richard Devens, Col. Simeon Spaulding, Capt. Jonathan Brown.
Worcester. — Col. Jedediah Foster, Esq., Capt. Timothy Bigelow,
Mr. Edward Rawson, Capt. Samuel Brooks, Col. Jonathan Grout.
a ||It is further.ll b ||Bnylie8.||
1775.] SECOND PROVINCIAL CONGRESS. 141
Bristol. — Doct. David Cobb, Benjamin yAikinJI Esq., Doct. Wil-
liam Baylies, Capt. William Holmes, Capt. Thomas Carpenter.
BARN.sT.vnLF.. — Daniel Davis, Esq., Capt. Stephen Nye, Mr. Moses
Swift, Mr. Benjamin Freeman and Mr. Naaman Holbrook.
Berkshire. — Mr. Samuel Brown, Mark Hopkins, Esq., Capt.
Charles Goodridge, Major Jonathan Smith, Capt. Caleb Hyde.
Plymouth. — Hon. James Warren, Esq., Col. Edward Mitchel, Capt.
Joshua White, Doct. Jeremiah Hall, Mr. Ebenezer White.
Lincoln. — James Howard, Esq., Mr. Timothy Langdon, Mr. Dum-
mer Sewall, Mr. [Samuel] Cobb, Mr. Joseph Waldo.
Nantucket. — Josiah Coffin, Esq., Grafton Gardner, Esq., Mr. Jo-
siah Barker, Timothy Folger, Esq., Mr. Stephen Hussey.
Dukes County. — Joseph Mayhew, Esq., John Summer, Esq., Col.
Beriah Norton, Shubael Cottle, Esq., Mr. Ranford Smith.
Cumberland. — Solomon Lombard, Esq., Mr. Samuel Freeman, Mr.
John Lewis, Col. Samuel Thompson, Mr. Timothy McDaniel.
York. — Charles Chauncy, Esq., Capt. Daniel Bragdon, Mr. Eben-
ezer Sawyer, James Sullivan, Esq., Major Ichabod Goodwin.
Hampshire. — Major [Joseph] Hawley, Col. Timothy Danielson,
Mr. Noah ||''Goodman,|| Col. Elisha Porter, Col. John Mosley.
Resolved, That the resolve recommending the aforesaid committees,
be printed in hand bills, and sent to all the towns and districts.
Ordered, That Mr. Devens, Capt. Rawson and Col. Davis, be a
committee to ||°disperse|l the hand bills. Ordered, that the committee
be enjoined to sit and H^'perfect this.|i
An application ft-om the plantation of New Providence [was] read ;
committed to Col. Dwight, Capt. Goodridge, Col. Pomeroy, Col. Pater-
son and Mr. Crane.
Adjourned till nine o'clock to-morrow morning.
Thursday, April 13, 1775, [A. M.]
Ordered, That the last resolve in the report, which was last night or-
dered to be published, be not printed.
The committee on the state of the province reported a resolve, [for]
engaging six companies of the train, and keeping them constantly in
exercise, and paying them, &,c., [which was] read, considered and
accepted, and is as follows :
In Provincial Congress, Concord, April 13, 1775.
Resolved, That the committee of safety be directed to engage a
.I ||Atkin.|| b ||Goodwin.|| c ||(li9trihute.|| d ||complete the bii9inp88.||
142 SECOND PROVINCIAL CONGRESS. [April 14,
suitable number of persons, and form six companies of the train for
the artillery already provided by this colony, to immediately enter on
discipline, and constantly be in readiness to enter the service of the
colony, when an army shall be raised ; and that the committee be, and
they are hereby empowered, to draw on the public treasury for paying
said companies a suitable consideration for their services.
The committee appointed to take into consideration the propriety of
removing the inhabitants from the town of Boston, reported.
The consideration thereof [was] deferred till three o'clock this af-
ternoon.
Afternoon.
The Congress resumed the consideration of the report deferred ;
after a long debate thereon, Ordered, that it be recommitted.||*||
Friday, April 14, 1775, A. M.
The committee appointed to take into consideration the petition
from the plantation called New Providence, reported : the report was
read and accepted, and is as followeth :
In Provincial Congress, April 14, 1775.
Resolved, That Major Joseph Bennet, be advised to pay Henry
Gardner, Esq. the full sum assessed on the plantation of New Provi-
dence for the year 1774, taking a proper and suitable receipt of said
Henry Gardner, for the collector appointed by the town of Lanesbo-
rough to collect said sum, and that said collector be advised to dis-
charge the several persons' proportion of said tax, in said plantation,
and collect the same.
Per order of committee : Simeon Dwight, Chairman.
The [report of the] committee appointed to take into consideration
the removal of the inhabitants of the town of Boston, was ||''read and
accepted, 1 1 and is as follows :
In Provincial Congress, Concord, April 14, 1775.
Whereas, the late accounts of the hostile intentions of the British
parliament towards this colony, have so greatly agitated the minds and
raised the fears of many good people in the town of Boston, as to in-
duce many of those, who are able, to remove with their effects into
the country ; which in the opinion of this Congress is a prudent step :
and as there is no prospect of the repeal of the cruel port bill, where-
n ||Arfjournpd to nino o'riock tci morrow morning.|| b ||rcportf(l, wliirh rcjiort was nccpptod.||
1775] SECOND PROVINCIAL CONGRESS. 14:i
by many poor, industrious persons, if continued in that place, must be
still great siilTerers, notwithstanding the generous donations; and as
the season of the year is now approaching, in which they may be, in
some measure, serviceable to themselves and families in such parts of
the country as can find them employment in their several occupations :
It is therefore recommended to the committee of donations, that
they afford to such poor persons, who are anxious to remove themselves
and families into the country, such assistance as may enable them to
do it.
Voted, That the members of the town of Boston be desired to com-
municate this recommendation, with the schedule, to the committee of
donations.
The committee on the state of the province reported a resolve, rel-
ative to appointing a committee to apply to a suitable number of per-
sons to be in readiness to enter the service of this colony, as officers,
when an army shall be raised.
Ordered, That the consideration thereof be referred to three o'clock,
P. M.
Ordered, That at four o'clock, P. M. the Congress will come to the
choice, by ballot, of a person to serve on the committee of safety, in-
stead of Doct. Fisher, who was excused.
||The Congressll adjourned to three o'clock, P. M.
Afternoon.
The Congress resumed the consideration of the report referred,
agreeable to the order of the day : after some debate thereon, it pass-
ed, and is as follows:
In Provincial Congress, Concord, April 14, 1775.
Re.folved, That a committee be now appointed to apply to a suita-
ble number of persons, to be in readiness to enter the service of this
colony, to act as field officers : such field officers, in conjunction with
the committee, to apply to proper persons as captains, and they to de-
termine on such subaltern officers, as may be necessary for each regi-
ment, when an army shall be raised; the committee and officers catteris
paribus, to give the preference to persons who have been chosen offi-
cers in the regiments of minute men.
Ordered, That the committee of safety be the committee to apply
to a suitable number of persons to act as officers, as recommended
in the foregoing resolve.
Ordered, That the Congress now proceed to the choice of a gentle-
man to serve on the committee of safety in the place of Mr. Fisher.
144 SECOND PROVINCIAL CONGRESS. [April 15,
Ordered, That Mr. Cu.shing, Col, Palmer, and Mr. Bigelow, be a
committee to count and sort the votes : [which committee] reported,
that Col. Thomas Gardner was chosen.
Ordered, That the committee on the state of the province take the
late newspapers from England into consideration, and report what
there is relating to this province.
Ordered, That the Rev. Mr. Murray, Mr. Mayhew, and Col. Pome-
roy, be a committee to bring in a resolve recommending a day of fast-
ing and prayer.
Congress adjourned to ten o'clock to-morrow morning.
Saturday, April 15, 1775, A. M.
The committee appointed to bring in a resolve recommending a day
of fasting and prayer, reported, [which report was] amended and ac-
cepted, and is as follows :
Whereas, it hath pleased the Righteous Sovereign of the universe,
in just indignation against the sins of a people long blessed with ines-
timable privileges, civil and religious, to suffer the plots of wicked
men, on both sides of the Atlantic, who, for many years, have incessant-
ly labored to sap the foundation of our public liberties, so far to suc-
ceed, that we see the New England colonies reduced to the ungrateful
alternative of a tame submission to a state of absolute vassalage to the
will of a despotic minister, or of preparing themselves speedily to de-
fend, at the hazard of ||Hife,|| the unalienable rights of themselves and
posterity against the avowed hostilities of their parent state, who open-
ly threaten to wrest them from their hands, by fire and sword ;
In circumstances dark as these, it becomes us, as men and christians,
to reflect, that whilst every prudent measure should be taken to ward
off the impending judgments, or prepare to act a proper part under
them when they come ; at the same time, all confidence must be with-
held from the means we use, and reposed only on that God, who rules
in the armies of heaven, and without whose blessing, the best human
councils are but foolishness, and all created power vanity.
It is the happiness of H^'hisH church, that when the powers of earth
and hell combine against it, and those who should be nursing fathers
become its persecutors, then the throne of grace is of the easiest access,
and its appeal thither is graciously invited by that Father of mercies,
who has assured it that when his children ask bread he will not give
them a stone ;
Therefore, in compliance with the laudable practice of the people of
1775] SECOND PROVINCIAL CONGRESS. 145
God in all ages, with the humble regard to the steps of Divine Providence
towards this oppressed, threatened, and endangered people, and espe-
cially in ohedicnce to the command of Heaven, that ||"bidsl| us to call
on him in the day of trouble.
Resolved, That it be, and hereby is, recommended to the good peo-
ple of this colony, of all denominations, that Thursdciy, the eleventh
day of May next, be set apart as a day of public humiliation, fasting,
and prayer ; that a total abstinence from servile labor and recrea-
tion be observed, and all the religious assemblies solemnly convened,
to humble themselves before God, under the heavy judgments felt and
feared, to confess the sins that have deserved them ; to implore the for-
giveness of all our transgressions, a spirit of repentance and reforma-
tion, and a blessing on the husbandry, manufactures, and other lawful
employments of this people ; and especially, that the union of the
American colonies in defence of their rights, for which, hitherto, we
desire to thank Almighty God, may be preserved and confirmed ; that
the Provincial, and especially the Continental Congress, may be di-
rected to such measures as God will countenance : that the people of
Great Britain and their rulers may have their eyes open to discern the
things that shall make for the peace of the nation and all its connec-
tions : and that America may soon behold a gracious interposition of
Heaven, for the redress of her many grievances, the restoration of all
her invaded liberties, and their security to the latest generations.
Ordered, That ||''itl| be copied, authenticated, and sent to all the re-
ligious assemblies in this colony.
Ordered, That Mr. Devens, Mr. Cheever, and Mr. Stephen Hall, be
a committee to get the resolves printed and dispersed.
Adjourned to three o'clock [in the afternoon.]
AAernoon.
Iw Provincial Congress, Concord, April 15, 1775.
Resolved, That Henry Gardner, Esq., receiver general of the pro-
vince of the Massachusetts Bay, be, and hereby is, directed to pay to
Messrs. Edes and Gill, printers, the sum of thirty-six pounds, six shil-
lings, and ninepence, lawful money, for printing for said province, to
the twenty-seventh of March last.
In Provincial Congress, Concord, April 15, 1775.
Resolved, That Henry Gardner, Esq., receiver general of the pro-
vince of the Massachusetts Bay, be, and is hereby directed, to pay to
Richard Devens, the sum of eleven pounds, nineteen shillings, and six-
a||binda.|| b ||the foregoing.||
19
146 SECOND PROVINCIAL CONGRESS. [April 15,
pence half penny, for sundry accounts by him paid and discharged for
services done for the said province.
In Provincial Congress, Concord, April 15, 1775.
Resolved, That Henry Gardner, Esq., receiver general of the pro-
vince of the Massachusetts Bay, be, and hereby is, directed, to pay
unto Jeremiah Hunt, the sum of four pounds, four shillings, for his at-
tendance as doorkeeper, for paper and quills, l|*for|l the Congress.
Ordered, That Henry Gardner, Esq., Col. Barrett, and Col. Hen-
shaw, be a committee to wait on the Rev. Mr. Emerson, and return
him the thanks of this Congress for his faithful attendance on and ll*"!!
officiating as their chaplain during this session.
Ordered, That the same committee be directed to wait on the com-
mittee of the proprietors of this house, and return them the thanks of
this Congress for the use thereof
Ordered, That, on the return of the members to their respective
towns, they use their interest with the inhabitants thereof, that they
immediately pay their public moneys to Henry Gardner, Esq., receiver
general of this colony.
Ordered, That the members use their interest to promote the milita-
ry discipline.
Resolve for adjournment passed, and is as follows :
Resolved, That this Congress be adjourned from this day, to Wed-
nesday, the tenth day of May next, at ten o'clock in the forenoon, to
meet at Concord, in the county of Middlesex ; and, considering the
great uncertainty of the present times, and that important unforeseen
events may take place, from whence it may be absolutely necessary
that this Congress should meet sooner than the day abovesaid, not-
withstanding the adjournment aforesaid ;
It is farther Resolved, That the members of this Congress for the
towns of Charlestown, Cambridge, Brookline, Roxbury, and Dorches-
ter, or the majority of them, be, and they are hereby authorized, in
case they should judge it necessary, to give notice to the several mem-
bers of this Congress, in such way as they shall think proper, to meet at
Concord aforesaid, at any earlier day than the abovesaid tenth day of
May, which shall be by them appointed ; and it is further recommend-
ed to the members of this Congress, that they conform themselves to
such notice.
Ordered, That the thanks of this Congress be H'given to the presi-
a ||by him furnislied for the use of.|| b ||cspccially for.||
c llpreeented to the Hon. John Hancock, Esq.H
177r>.] SECOND PROVINCIAL CONGRESS. 147
dentil for his constant attendance ||on|| and faithful discharge of his
duty .IS president during the several sessions hereof.
The business being finished, the president declared the Congress
adjourned according ||'to the resolve. ||
Concord, [Satordat,] April 22, 1775.1
Mr. Richard Dcvens jjwas chosen|| chairman, [and] Mr. John Mur-
ray clerk.
Mr. Gerry represented to Congress, that a letter from Mr. Q,uincy 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. Or-
dered, 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 they think proper : the committee returned,
and desired that the whole be read in Congress ; which being done,
Ordered, That the same be sent to Doct. Warren, to be used at his
discretion.
Adjourned to Watertown, at 4 o'clock, P. M.
Watertown, [April 22,] 1775, 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 request their attendance, with
whatever plans they may have in readiness for us, and also notify the
a Ijuiitil Wednesday, the tenth day of May next, conformably to the preceding resolve. ||
(1) Two days only elapsed after the Provincial Congress had adjourned, and the members, re-
turning to their respective homes, were widely separated, before apprehensions of immediate dan-
ger arose, and, on the 18th of April, grew so intense, that the committee constituted from Charles-
town, Cambridge, Brookline, Roxbury, and Dorchester, met, and issued the following summons to
recall each delegate :
" Sir : Having received certain intelligence of the sailing of a number of troops to reenforce the
army under general Gage ; this, with the industrious preparations making in Boston for a speedy
march into the country, impresses Us with the absolute necessity of convening the Provincial Con-
gress at Concord, as soon as may be, agreeably to a vote of Congress, at the last session. You are
therefore requested immediately to repair to Concord, as the closest deliberation, and the collected
wisdom of the people, at this alarming crisis, are indispensably necessary for the salvation of the
country." RICH.\ilD DEVENS, per order.
The notice, although circulated with tlio utmost speed of express messengers, could not have
reached many of the members before the march of the British troops to Concord had roused the land
to arms.
The adjournment of Congress from Concord to Watertown, was undoubtedly made, from the
great necetsity, that the body holding the executive and legislative powers of government, should
be near to the army of the people, already in the field.
(2) The letter of Mr. Quincy has not been recovered, nor does any paper on the files of the Con -
gress indicate its contents.
(3) The committee of safety had been in constant session during the preceding day and night in
Cambridee.
148 SECOND PROVINCIAL CONGRESS. [April 23,
absent members that are at Cambridge, and request their punctual at-
tendance.
Ordered, That Mr. Sullivan, Col. Cushing, and Mr. Crane, be a
committee to wait on the selectmen, for liberty jjof the use|| 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, Col. Cushing, Col. Barrett, Capt. Stone,
Doct. Taylor, Mr. Sullivan, Mr. Freeman, Mr. Watson, and Esquire
Dix, be a committee to take depositions, in perpetuam, from which a
full account of the transactions of the troops, under general Gage, in
their route to and from Concord, &c., on Wednesday last, may be col-
lected, 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, [A. M.]
Congress met H^accordingH to adjournment, and adjourned to the
school-house.
Upon a letter from Gen. Ward^ respecting the New Hampshire
troops. Resolved, unanimously, that it is necessary for the defence of
the colony, that an army of 30,000 men be immediately raised and es-
tablished.
Resolved, That 13,600 men be raised immediately by this province.
Resolved, That the committee of safety be a committee to bring in
a plan for the establishment of the officers and soldiers necessary for
the army to be H'^immediately raised, || and [that they] sit immediately.
Voted, That Col. Cushing, Mr. Sullivan, Col. Whitcomb, and Mr.
Durant, be added to the committee of safety.
a ||coiiformably.|| b ||raised at this time.||
(1) This letter of Gen. Ward, which is lost, probably related to a communication from Col. Green-
leaf, dated at Newburyport, April 21, stating, that " 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 pro-
vince of New Hampshire and from the eastern parts of our province should be sent back, especial-
ly those that live near the sea shore. We are well informed that numbers passed our river yester-
day at the upper ferry : besides, four companies went through this town on their way to you. 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."
A letter from Gen. Ward, of the date mentioned in the text, is preserved ; it states ; " My situa-
tion is sucli that, if I have not enlisting orders immediately, I shall be loft all alone : it is impossi-
ble to keep the men liere, excepting something l)edone:" and implores immediate action on the
measures necessary for the organization of an army.
The committee of safety write thus to the Provincial Congress of New Hampshire : " 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 wore present in the service of this colony, as
many desired something may be done to hold them together, until the resolve of your Congress is
known, when we are ready and desirous that they should be discharged from us and put under such
command as you shall direct."
1775] SECOND PROVINCIAL CONGRESS. 149
Resolvrd, That Mr. Sullivan be a committee to wait on the New
Hampshire Congres.s, at Exeter, to infnriri tlifni 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.
Rf solved, That Mr. Murray, Mr. Gill, and Capt. Stone, be a com-
mittee to draught a letter to each of the colonels, to be sent by ||*the
expresses.il
Adjourned to this place, at two o'clock, P. M.
[Aflemoon J
Two o'clock. Congress met according to adjournment, and ad-
journed to the meeting-house.
Being there met, the committee appointed to draught a letter [to the
colonels, reported ; the report was read,] which was accepted, and or-
dered to be copied by Capt. Stone.
Mr. Gerry read in his place a letter from Marblehead, reporting that
[the British man of war Lively was lying off the harbor of that town ;
representing, that their means of defence were inadequate to repel at-
tack ; and asking direction and aid :] upon which, Resolved, that the
matter subside till further information.
Doct. Warren read a letter from the committee of correspondence
of Connecticut ;i Ordered, that Mr. Gerry, Mr. Gill, and Doct. Tay-
lor, be a committee to draught an answer, and report immediately.
Ordered, That Col. Orne, Major Fuller [of Newton,] and Major
Fuller [of Middleton,] be a committee to count and sort votes for a
president pro tempore.
The committee reported, that the vote was full for Doct. Warren.
Col. Palmer was chosen secretary pro tempore.
||The report of the committee|| for an establishment for the army,
ll'was read. II
a ||exprcB3.|| b ||the committee reported a reBolve.||
c ||which being read was referred for further consideration. ||
(I) Tlicy wrote tlius : " Everj- preparation is making to support your province. We have many
reports of what is doing with you : the particulars we cannot yet get with precision : the ardor of
our people is such that they cannot be kept back. The colonels are to forward a part of the best
men and most ready, as fast as possible : the remainder to be ready at a moment's warning." The
principal object of the letter, which was sent from Lebanon, and subscribed by William Williams,
Nathaniel Wales, Jun., and Joseph Trumbull, was, to request correct information of the movements
of the British troops, and of the condition of the colony of Massachusetts, " that we may know
how to concert the measures proper for us to take." The answer contained a narrative of the ex-
pedition to Concord.
150 SECOND PROVINCIAL CONGRESS. [Aprir24,
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] Doct. Church, Mr. Gerry, Mr. Cushing, be that
committee.
Adjourned to eight o'clock to-morrow morning, [to meet] in this
place.
Watertown, [Monday,] April 24, 1775, A. M.
Met according to adjournment.
Rev. Mr. Murray [was] appointed president pro tempore, and Ichabod
Goodwin secretary pro tempore : Jonas Dix, Esq., was appointed mon-
itor.
Ordered, That Mr. Gerry give the express going to the press, his
orders for the enlisting papers.
Ordered, That the enlisting paper going to the press, shall be au-
thenticated by the secretary pro tempore.
Resolved, That six hundred of these papers be printed, and that the
ll^expressll 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 [resolves for the] establishment of the army be
printed 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 suita-
able for officers in the army now raising.
Ordered, That [the following gentlemen be the committee :] Col.
Lincoln, for the county of Suffolk : Major Fuller, for Essex : Col.
Prescot, for Middlesex : Col. Pomeroy, for Hampshire : Nathan Cush-
ing, Esq., for Plymouth : Daniel Davis, Esq., for Barnstable : Col,
Dagget, for Bristol : Ichabod Goodwin, Esq., for York : Joseph Mayhew,
Esq., for Dukes County: Major Bigelow, for Worcester: Mr. Samuel
Freeman, for Cumberland : Rev. Mr. John Murray, for Lincoln : Col.
John Patterson, for Berkshire, and [Stephen] Hussey, Esq., for Nan-
tucket.
a ||Congres8,||
1775] SECOND PROVINCIAL CONGRESS. 151
(Jrdircd, That oacli of these members attend the service according
to their a|)|>oiiitiiU'iit, or write to the committee.
Ordered, Tliat Major Fuller ol" Middletown, give a list of the names
of these members to the committee of safety.
Resolved, That when this Congress do adjourn, that 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.
Aflernoon, April 24, 1775.
Letters from Hartford, i directed to the president of this Congress,
laid on the table, were ordered to be read, and, after reading, were or-
dered to be immediately forwarded to the committee of safety, then
sitting at Cambridge.
Moved, That a committee be now appointed to examine the records
and report such matters contained therein, as may be made public, and
such as shall remain secret at present.
Ordered, That Major Brooks, Deacon Fisher, and Mr. Freeman, be
a committee for that purpose.
IJThen the|l Congress adjourned till eight o'clock next morning, at
this place.
||TuESDAT, April 25, 1775.||
Eight o'clock, A. M. According to adjournment [the Congress]
then met.
Ordered, That the treasurer be inquired of ||by this Congress|| re-
specting the state of the treasury.
Answered by said treasurer in a general way, that, for the year 1773,
it was supposed that about >^20,000 was due, and that he had received
about <£5,000.
Moved, That a committee be appointed to bring in a resolve, how
we may ||''get the knowledge|| of the towns and districts, who are de-
linquent; llbutjl 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 public of the resolves, reported, that nothing relative
to our proceeding 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.
a llascertain the numl)er.||
(1) These letters, repeating the assurances given by the committee of correspondence, of tlio
readiness of the men of Connecticut to support their brethren of Massachusetts, and desired the
direction of Congress, as to the number of troops to be sent to Cambridge.
152 SECOND PROVINCIAL CONGRESS. [April 26,
Leave of absence is granted [to Jerathmiel] Bowers, Esq., to return
home.
||Then|| adjourned to three o'clock, afternoon.
[Afternoon.]
Three o'clock. According to adjournment met.
The letter from Haverhill^ committed.
Ordered, That Mr. Gill, Col. Gerrish, and Major Fuller of Middle-
ton, 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 should be ||*brought in|| by the committee
of safety to reduce the regiments.
Moved, That the companies in each regiment be reduced from one
hundred men each to fifty-nine, including three officers ; one captain,
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 Col. Orne, Col. 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 expediency [that]
the depositions we are now taking be forwarded as fast as possible ;
the same [was] ordered to be sent to the conunittee, for that purpose,
at Lexington, immediately.
Ordered, That the memorial from Marblehead,- with the debate
thereon, subside for the present.
llThenll adjourned till eight o'clock next day.
a ||submitteil.||
(1) The uiiswer prepared by the comraittco, addressed toihe town clerk of Haverhill, will explain
the contents of tlie letter received by the Congress.
" Sir : The Congress have this day received u letter from Nathaniel Peaslee Sargeant, Ksq., and
Jonathan Webster, Esq., acquainting thcni that the late dreadful fire in Haverhill, together with
some public disturbances in said town, make it necessary that they sliould be at home at this time.
The Congress apprehend that the important business of the colonies requires that every town should
be now represented ; and therefore desire that if neither of those gentlemen can attend, others
should be elected in their room, that the wisdom of the wliole colony may be collected at our hour
of need."
(2) l\Iany memorials, of similar purport, were presented to the Congress from the maritime towns,
representing that the long lino of sea coast was without adequate defence ; that armed vessels were
hovering about the ports, ready to turn their cannon upon the villages of the shore ; that the people
were exhausted by strenuous exertions in the common cause ; and praying for reenforcementa of
men, and supplies of orms and ammunition.
1775] SECOND PROVINCIAL CONGRESS. 153
WEDmssDAT, April 26, 8 o'clock, A. M.
Then met according to adjournment.
Ordered, That Mr. President, Doct. Taylor, Mr. Freeman, [Henry]
Gardner, Esq. and Col. Stone, be a committee to draught a letter to
our agent in Great Britain.
\\'-Resolvrd,\\ 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 public treasury of this
colony, during his continuance in that service, at the rate of one hun-
dred and fifty pounds, lawful money, per annum. And it is further
Resolved, that from and after the time when the said forces shall be
disbanded, during the life of the said Burbeck, there be paid to him
out of said treasury, the sum of ninety-seven pounds six shillings and
eight pence, lawful money, annually.
Ordered, That Col. Gerrish, Deacon Fisher, Col. Orne, Mr. Batch-
elder and Capt. Brown, be a committee to take into consideration the
letter laid on the table by the committee of safety from James Sulli-
van,^ Esq., and the committee to sit forthwith.
Ordered, That the letter drawn by the committee, to send to Doct.
Franklin, as agent, be copied, and authenticated by the president pro
tempore. [The letter is as follows :]
[In Provincial Congress, Watertown, April 26, 1775.]
[To the Hon. Benjamin Franklin, Esq., at London."]
[Sir : — From the entire confidence we repose in your faithfulness
and abilities, we consider it the happiness of this colony, that the im-
portant trust of agency for it, in this day of unequalled distress, is de-
volved on your hands, and we doubt not, your attachment to the cause
and 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 singular instance hereof, is the occasion of the present let-
ter. 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 horrors of a most unnatural war.]
[Our enemies, we are told, have despatched to Great Britain a falla-
a ||Ordercd.||
(1) One letter of Mr. Sullivan was written to ask imraedinto attention to the relief of the
eastern towns, the subject of a subsequent resolvo.
20
154 SECOND PROVINCIAL CONGRESS. [April 26,
cious account of the tragedy they have begun ; to prevent the opera-
tion of which to the public 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 supplying Capt. Derby, who commands her,
with such necessaries as he shall want, on the credit of your constitu-
ents in Massachusetts Bay.]
[But we most ardently wish, that the several papers herewith en-
closed, may be immediately printed, and dispersed through every town
in England, and especially communicated to the lord mayor, aldermen
and council of the city of London, that they may take such or-
der thereon as they may think proper ; and we are confident your
fidelity will make such improvement 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 can save either. But that what-
ever price our brethren in the one, may be pleased to put on their con-
stitutional liberties, we are authorized to assure you, that the inhab-
itants of the other, with the greatest unanimity, are inflexibly resolved
to sell theirs only at the price of their lives.]
[The following address to the people of Great Britain, reported by
a committee, was adopted.]
[In Provincial Congress, Watertown, April 26, 1775.]
[To the Inhabitants of Great Britain.']
[Friends and Fellow Subjects : — Hostilities are at length com-
menced in this colony by the troops under the command of general
Gage, and it being of the greatest importance, that an early, true and
authentic 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 honorable Continental Congress, think it
proper to address you on this alarming occasion.]
[By the clearest depositions relative to this transaction, it will ap-
pear, that on the night preceding the nineteenth of April instant, a
body of the king's troops, under the command of Col. Smith, were
secretly landed at Cambridge, with an apparent design to take or de-
stroy the military and other stores provided for the defence of this col-
ony and deposited at Concord : that some inhabitants of the colony,
on the night aforesaid, whilst travelling peaceably on the road between
Boston and Concord, were seized and greatly abused by armed men,
who appeared to be officers of general Gage's army : that the town of
1775] SECOND PROVINCIAL CONGRESS. 1.S5
Lexington, by these means, was alarmed, and a company of the inhab-
itants mustered on the occasion : that the regular troops, on their way
to Concord, marched into the said town of Lexington, and the said
company, on their approach, began to disperse : that notwithstanding
this, the regulars rushed on with great violence ; and first began hos-
tilities, by firing on said Lexington company, whereby they killed eight
and wounded several others : that the regulars continued their fire, un-
til those of said company, who were neither killed nor wounded, had
made their escape : that Col. Smith, with the detachment, then
marched to Concord, where a number of provincials were again fired
on by the troops, and two of them killed and several wounded, before
the provincials 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 unciv-
ilized nation.]
[These, brethren, are marks of ministerial vengeance against this
colony, for refusing, with her sister colonies, submission to slavery :
but they have not yet detached us from our royal sovereign. We pro-
fess 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. Ap-
pealing to Heaven for the justice of our cause, we determine to die or
be free.]
[We cannot think that the honor, wisdom and valor of Britons, will
suffer them to be longer inactive spectators of measures, in which they
themselves are so deeply interested : measures pursued in opposition to
the solemn protests of many noble lords, and the expressed sense of
conspicuous commoners, whose knowledge and virtue have long char-
acterized them as some of the greatest men in the nation : measures
executing contrary to the interest, petitions and resolves of many
large, respectable and opulent counties, cities and boroughs in Great
Britain: measures highly incompatible with justice, but still pursued
156 SECOND PROVINCIAL CONGRESS. [April 26,
with a specious pretence of easing the nation of its burthens : meas-
ures 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 Universe, 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 constitutional connection with the mother country,
we shall be altogether a free and happy people.]^
The depositions taken by the committee for that purpose, were laid
on the table, and ordered to be read.^
Ordered, That the committee make duplicates of the same, and
Capt. Stone, [Jonas] Dix, Esq., Col. Tyng, Col. Dwight, Capt. Whit-
temore, Major Fuller and Mr. Freeman assist as scribes in that
business.
And then adjourned till three o'clock.
Afternoon.
IIThree o'clock, afternoon. Met according to adjournment. ||
Ordered, That the letters and papers just now received from Rhode
Island^ by Doct. Perkins, be sent to the committee of safety, now sit-
ting in Cambridge, by him, and that he have leave to go home a few
days.
(1) The letter to Doct. Franklin, and the address to the inhabitants of Great Britain, have been
restored to their places in the journal of the Provincial Congress, from the copies preserved in the
records of the Continental Congress, May 11, 1775.
(2) These depositions, with the narrative prepared by order of the Congress, will be found in the
Appendix.
(3) The letters covered the following resolution of the general assembly of Rhode Island, adopt-
ed April 25, 1775.
" 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 utmost distress, and totally prevent them from attending to the
common occupations of life : to prevent the mischievous consequences that must attend such a dis-
ordered state, and to restore peace to the minds of the good people of this colony, it is thought ab-
solutely necessary, that a number of men be raised and embodied, properly armed and disciplined,
to continue in this colony as an army of observation, to repel any insult or violence that may be
offered to the inhabitants ; and also, if it be necessary for the safety and preservation of any of the
colonies, that they bo ordered to march out of this colony, and join and co-operate with the forces
of our neighboring colonies."
" It is Voted and Resolved, that fifteen hundred men be enlisted, raised and embodied, as afore-
said, with all the expedition and despatch that the nature of the thing will admit of."
In the house of magistrates, on the passage of this resolution, the following protest was entered
by the goveinor, deputy governor and two of the assistants.
" 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 neighboring cole-
1775] SECOND PROVINCIAL CONGRESS. 157
Rcsohud, Tliat Ricliard Gridley, Esq. be, and he hereby is appoint-
ed cliief cnjfinccr of the forces now raising in this colony, for the de-
fence of the rijrhts and lil)erties of the American continent ; and that
there be paid to the said Richard Gridley, out of the public 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 disbanded, during the life of tlie said Gridley, there he 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, Doct. Taylor, Deacon Cheever, Doct.
Baylies and Col. Farley, be a committee to consider the state of the
eastern parts of this province at large, in regard to supplying them
with ammunition, and to sit forthwith. [The committee presented the
following report, which was accepted.]
[In Provincial Congress, Watertown, April 26, 1775.]
[Whereas, representation has been made to this Congress, that seve-
ral of the towns in the eastern parts of the colony are deficient in
such supply of ammunition, as it is necessary that 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 measures to pro-
cure 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 situa-
tion of our public affairs ; and, in particular, that they immediately send
to the colonies of Connecticut and Rhode Island for so much powder
as they shall think necessary, and when procured, to deliver so much of
it, to the order of the selectmen of such deficient towns, and in such
nies : because, we are of opinion, that such a measurn will bo attended with the most fatal conse-
quences to our rliarter privileges, involve this colony in all the horrors of a civil war, and, as we
conceive, be an open violation of the oath of allegiance, which we have severally taken upon our
admission into the respective offices we hold in the colony."
"JOSEPH J. WANTON, THOMAS WICKES,
UARIUS SESSIONS, WILLIAM POTTER."
Michael Bowler, Esq., speaker of the house, writes thus : " Notwithstanding an exception of a
few individuals, you may be assured that the colony are firm and determined, and greater unanimity
scarce ever prevailed in the lower bouse than was found on the great questions before them. We
pray to God that he would be graciously pleased to bring to nothing the councils and designs of
wicked men against our lives and liberties, and grant liis blessing upon our righteous contest."
158 SECOND PROVINCIAL CONGRESS. [April 26,
quantities as they may think will be proportional to the exigencies of
each town respectively, 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 net expense of procuring the same.]^
Ordered, That Col. Cutts, Ichabod 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 reported the following resolve 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 sea ports, and thereby exposed to the ravages of
the enemy, although but a small force should be sent to attack them by
sea; and likewise shewing that they have not ammunition sufficient
wherewith to make defence should they be thus attacked ; and consid-
ering them as they ought to be, part of the whole, and should they suf-
fer 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 inhabitants 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, Boothbay and Biddeford replaced, in that
case, the Congress will give orders for the same as soon as may be :
the powder to be apportioned according to the number of inhabitants
in the said towns : as also to Sandford, said town having made appli-
cation for supplies of the same kind.]
Ordered, That Rev. J. Murray, Major Fuller and Jonas Dix,
Esq., be a committee to return the thanks of this Congress to the rev-
erend ministers, who have generously offered to supply the army as
chaplains each a month in rotation.
Ordered, That three o'clock to-morrow ["be assigned] to take into
consideration some effectual method of supplying the treasury.
11 [tliis Congress will tiikc]
(I) This ri\solvc, and tljiit which iinniodiately follows, are copied fVoiii the original pai)ers in the
office of tlio secretary of the Comnionwoalth.
1775.] SECOND PROVINCIAL CONGRESS. ir>0
Ordered, That Deacon llow have leave to return home, but ||he
is to|| return to his duty immediately.
Ordired, That copies of the order to Hon. Richard Derby, Esq.,
for fitting out his vessel as a packet, be taken and authenticated by the
president pro tempore. ^
Ordered, That the Hon Richard Derby, Esq.'s order to the treasu-
ry, be also authenticated by the president pro tempore.
Ordered, That the committee of supplies [be directed] to [cause
the] draught of the letter to our agent in Great Britain ||"to be sent,l|
with the papers now preparing for that purpose.
Ordered, That Doct. Holten, Doct. Baylies, Capt. Whittemore, Col.
Dwight and Mr. Kollock, be a committee to take the recommendation
of the committee of safety into consideration, with respect jjto armour-
ers for|| the army now forming.
Moved, That when this Congress do adjourn, that they adjourn till
seven o'clock to-morrow morning.
||And thenjl adjourned accordingly.
Thursday, AprU 27, [1775, A. M.]
Seven o'clock — met according to adjournment.
Ordered, That Capt. Goodman inquire of the committee 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 obtaining some powder.
Ordered, That Mr. Gerry have leave to bring in a resolve with re-
gard to the sea ports 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:
a ||und be requested to send the s;iinc.|j
(1) The order to Ricliard Derby, Esq. was as follows :
IN COMMITTEE OF S.\PETV, .April 07, 1775.
Resolved, That Capt. Derby be directed, and he hereby is directed, to make for Dublin, or any
other good port in Ireland, and from thence to cross to Scotland or England, and hasten to London.
This direction is given, that so he may escape all cruisers that may be in the chops of the channel,
to stop the communication of the provincial intelligence to the agent. He will forthwith deliver
his papers to the agent on reaching London. J. WARllEN, Chairman.
P. f . — You are to keep this order a profound secret fro:n every person on earth.
160 SECOND PROVENCIAL CONGRESS. [April 27,
Resolved, That it be, and it hereby is earnestly recommended to the
committees of the sea port towns in the county of Essex, that they
use their utmost endeavors 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 pacific ap-
pearance until their effects shall be secured : that the Congress con-
sider 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 dan-
ger when the colony and the continent shall attack such enemies.
And it is also recommended to them that their application to Congress
for advice, and this resolve in consequence thereof, be kept a secret,
that their effects may more easily be removed. ]i
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, Doct. Taylor, Major Ful-
ler of Middleton, and Capt. Goldman, be a committee to confer with
the officers of the army, relative to the reduction of their pay.
Col. 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 ||is|l appointed to the same business ||forl| the county of
Hampshire.
Then adjourned till three o'clock.
[Afternoon.]
llAfternoon, three o'clock — met according to adjournment. ||
Ordered, That Capt. Kingsbury, Doct. Ho) ten and Deacon Stone,
are appointed to enquire, and endeavor to get an exact account of the
men killed, and wounded, and murdered, in the late scene on the 19th
instant.
The order of the day was moved for, to take up the matter of sup-
plying the treasury.
Ordered, That a committee be appointed for that purpose, to con-
sist of five, and to be chosen by written votes.
Ordered, That two be added to this committee.
Ordered, That Doct. Holten, Mr. Bullen and Capt. Batchelder be
appointed to count and sort the votes.
Ordered, That nine o'clock be assigned for that purpose.
Ordered, That Mr. Partridge, Capt. Greenleaf and Doct. Baker, be
appointed to consider the petition from Gorham, and to sit forthwith,
(J) Mr. Gerry's resolution is trnnscriljnil from the orij^inal on the tiles of Congress.
1775.] SECOND PROVINCIAL CONGRESS. 161
Ordered, That Capt. Whittemore, Mr. Freeman and Doct. Baylies,
assist as scribes, the committees in taking fair copies of the deposi-
tions in order for the press ; and to sit forthuitli.
Ordirrd, That Jonas Dix, Esq., [William] Stickney, Esq. and
Deacon Stone, be a|)pointed to take true copies of the depositions,
and liave them signed by the deponents, and authenticated by the jus-
tices and a notary public.
Ordrrrd, That Mr. Hiil)bart have leave to go home a few days.
Then adjourned till nine o'clock [to-morrow morning.]
[Friday, April 28, 1775, A. M.]
Nine o'clock — met ll'accordingH to adjournment.
Ordered, [That] Mr. President, Col. Gerrish, Mr. Gerry, Doct.
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, before them.^
Ordered, At the desire of the secretary pro tempore, that he be
excused from that service after another is appointed 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 tlie commit-
tee 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 26th instant. The said
draught was accordingly reported, read and unanimously accepted, and
ordered to be authenticated by the president, and delivered to Col.
Nathaniel Folsom, Col. Josiah Bartlet and Major Samuel Hobart,
Esq., the committee from the said convention of New Hampshire, and
is as follows, viz. :
" Gentlemen : — It is with pleasure we have received your letter
abovementioned, 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 inhabitants of
a ||conformably ||
(1) The letters from New York enclosed communications from London, containing intelligence
of the proceedings of parliament, information of the designs of the ministry, and exhortations to
union and firmness in resistance.
21
162 SECOND PROVINCIAL CONGRESS. [April 28,
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 communicated, 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 patriotic colony, whose in-
habitants have signalized themselves in joining 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 in-
terest 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 conduct of our
brethren in New York, and have delivered a copy of the letter to your
committee.
We sincerely thank you for your ||late|| measures taken H^by your||
convention at Exeter, and are fully persuaded that the Congress of
your colony, which is to meet on the 17th May, will take such effectual
steps as the present exigency of public affairs requires, and the conti-
nent of America must necessarily approve.
Ordered, That the secretary authenticate a copy of the letter this
day received from governor Hopkins of Rhode Island, and deliver the
same to the abovementioned committee from New Hampshire.
Ordered, That Mr. Dickenson, Doct. Holten and Col. 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 con-
sult with them respecting the New Hampshire forces now at Cam-
bridge.
Ordered, That the president, Mr. Gerry and Mr. Gardner, be a com-
mittee to take into consideration a letter this day received from the
Hon. Stephen Hopkins, Esq., dated Providence, April 27th, 1775.^
(1) This letter cannot be recovered : it related to the capture of Mr. John Brown : the substance
8 stated in the note to the journiil of April 29.
1775] SECOND PROVINCIAL CONGRESS. 103
Ordered, That Mr. Crane, Mr. Grout and Mr. Fisher, be a commit-
tee to take into consideration the expediency of establishing post
riders between the Massachusetts forces and the town of Worcester.
Ordfred, That Mr. Crane, Mr. Grout and Mr. Fisher, be a commit-
tee 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 as-
sembly.
Ordered, That Major Fuller of Newton, Mr. Goodman, Doct. Tay-
lor, Doct. 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.
Or r/crerf. That Mr. Fisher, Doct. Taylor and [Benjamin] Aikin, 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 Hon. Stephen Hopkins, Esq., reported.
The report [was] accepted, and ordered to lie on the table for the
present.
Ordered, That the committee appointed to introduce the honorable
delegates from the convention at Exeter, in New Hampshire, to the
committee of safety, apply to said committee for an authentic account
of what transactions have certainly taken place, with respect to the
liberation of our friends in Boston, and report as soon as may be.
Ordered, That Col. Dexter, Major Brooks, Doct. Taylor, Capt.
Batchelder and Capt. Greenleaf, be a committee to bring in a resolve
empowering the committee 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 establishment.
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
Ijnow forming in this colony :|| after much debate the question 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
£\6 to =£1'2 : and that the lieutenant colonels and majors be reduced
in the same proportion ; ||accordingly,|| Ordcred,\.\idX Major Fuller ||of
Newton, II Col. Dexter and Capt. Little, be a committee to bring in a
resolve for that purpose.
||This Congress was then|| adjourned till to-morrow morning, eight
o'clock.
164 SECOND PROVINCIAL CONGRESS. [April 29,
Saturday, April 29, [1775, A. M.]
The committee appointed to wait on the New Hampshire committee
to the committee of safety, at Cambridge, and to make inquiry re-
specting the liberation of the inhabitants 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 inhabi-
tants and their effects ;
And that the committee of safety, having taken the substance of
them into consideration, desired that [the papers] might be returned to
them, and that the Congress would not pass any resolve respecting them,
till they had come to some resolve concerning Hthe subject of || them ;
Therefore, Ordered, That the subject matter of the said papers be
referred 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, H^Fo^erf,]! 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 regula-
tions to be observed by this Congress, reported. The 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 interrupt-
ed 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 considered by the Congress, and not other-
wise.
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 commit-
tee, provided the person so nominated be chosen.
a ||Ordered.||
1775.1 SECOND PROVINCIAL CONGRESS. 165
9. No member shall be oblifred to be upon more than two commit-
tees at [the same] time, nor chairman of more than one.
10. Tliat no member be permitted to stand up to the interruption
of another, while such other member is speaking.
Ordvrcd, That the monitors of this Congress be, and they are here-
by directed, to see th.it the foregoing rules are observed by the several
members of this Congress.
Ordered, The letter and resolve prepared to be sent to the Hon.
Stephen Hopkins, Esq., of Rhode Island, be reconunitted for a suit-
able addition, and the committee to sit forthwith.
Ordered, That the Hon. Mr. Dexter be a committee to bring in a
resolve e.xpressive of the vote of this Congress for altering the first
meeting of the county committees.
The committee ||who were|| appointed to bring [in] a resolve empower-
ing the committee of supplies to procure provisions and military stores,
reported. The report was read and accepted, and is as follows :
In Provincial Congress, Watertovm, 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 de-
fence, or until it shall be otherwise ordered by this or some future con-
gress, or house of representatives, on the credit of the colony ; and
||*make drafts of|| suitable sums, from the treasury, for payment for
the same : also to deposit the said stores in such ||suitable|| places as
they, in consultation with the generals of the colony, shall judge
proper ; and to deliver such, and so many of said stores, to the com-
missary general, from time to time, as he shall ||''have demand for|| to
supply the army. Likewise, said committee of supplies are hereby
empowered to employ such and so many assistants, as they shall judge
necessary, to be paid as aforesaid ; said committee of supplies to be
accountable, when called upon, for their doings, to this or some future
congress, or house of representatives of this colony.
The committee appointed to prepare an addition to a letter to the
Hon. Stephen Hopkins, Esq., reported the following, which was read
and accepted :
In Provincial Congress, Watertmon, April 28, 1775.
It is with the deepest concern that we find Mr. Brown, that valuable
friend to the cause of America, betrayed into the hands of our com-
a ||draw.|| b llshiill judge needful-H
166 SECOND PROVINCIAL CONGRESS. [April 28,
mon 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 a mandamus counsellor, and such officers of general
Gage's army as are prisoners of war and not disabled from travelling,
to be immediately sent, with sufficient guards, to Providence, and
think it best that Murray and the officers should write to their friends
in Boston, acquainting 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 this colony
at the present time, which disables this Congress from immediately
seizing every crown officer in the government. Boston is closed, and
its numerous inhabitants, so obnoxious to our enemies, are imprisoned
therein. Several of our sea ports are ["blockaded] with ships, and
threatened destruction if they join the army. Under this situation,
the inhabitants of the places most in danger are, day and night, remov-
ing 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 our numerous sea ports sudden destruction, before they
have had opportunity of saving themselves. We had it in contempla-
tion to send a letter to the general, acquainting him that we should
treat the crown officers with severity, if Mr. Brown should be so
treated by him. But we are apprehensive that it would rather produce
an unhappy than good effect, as he has a greater number of our val-
uable friends than we can shew of his. We desire you to give us
your further sentiments in the matter, and if any other way is best
wherein the Congress can save Mr. Brown, it shall be readily pursued.
We are, &c.
To the Hon. Stiphn Hopkins, Esq.
In Provincial Congress, Watertoivn, 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 per-
sons, carried on board a British ship of war at Newport : Ordered,
that Samuel Murray, and such officers of general Gage's army as are
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 the Hon. Steplien Hopkins, Esq., or other friend of
said Mr. Brown, to be made such use of as they shall think proper for
obtaining the liberty of the said Mr. Brown.
a [blocked.]
1775] SECOND PROVINCIAL CONGRESS. 167
In Provinciax Congress, JVatertoum, April 29, 1775.
Sir : — The above is a copy of an order and letter which passed this
Congress yesterday, since which we have received from Boston copies
of sundry votes of that town to general Gage, upon the subject of a
license [for the inhabitants] to remove, with their effects, into the
country; and by his answers it appears, that he has consented to suffer
such inhabitants as have inclination therefor, to leave the place, with
all their effects, excepting fire arms, which are to be delivered at Fan-
euil hall to the selectmen of the town, and the names of the owners to
be placed on them : and the general expects, on the other hand, a pro-
clamation from Congress, giving liberty to all inhabitants of the colo-
ny, having inclination therefor, to remove, with their effects, into Bos-
ton. Some of the inhabitants have already left the town, by permis-
sion of the general; ||and under these circumstances, || should we issue
the order which has passed in Congress, it may put a stop to this un-
expected favorable event, and prevent the emancipation of many thou-
sands of friends to America. We, nevertheless, purpose to detain the
prisoners of war ; and if the general should not forfeit his plighted
faith, to use all expedition in getting out families and the effects of
our friends from Boston, that we may be at liberty to use our prison-
ers, and every other means in our power, for the release of Mr. Brown,
as was intended.
P. S. — We have just heard the passages from Boston are again
stopped, but the occasion of this extraordinary manoeuvre we cannot
yet learn.
To the Hon. Stephen Hopkins, Esq., \\oJ' Providcncc.\\
Ordered, That a postscript be added to the letter just prepared to
be sent to the Hon. Stephen Hopkins, Esq., purporting that we have
just received intelligence that the passages to and from Boston are
stopped ; the reason of which extraordinary manoeuvre we are not yet
acquainted with.
Adjourned to three o'clock [this afternoon.]
[Afternoon.]
The committee appointed to bring in a resolve with respect to re-
ducing 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 committee of safety.
In Provincial Congress, Wateiioivn, 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 hun-
168 SECOND PROVINCIAL CONGRESS. [AprU 29,
dred and ninety, makes the service of the said field officers of said
regiments less burdensome ; therefore. Resolved, that the pay of said
field officers be reduced 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 lieutenant colonel's
pay, nine pounds twelve shillings per month : a major's pay, eight
pounds per month.
Ordered, That Mr. Rawson, Doct. Dunsmore_and Col. Davis, be a
committee to wait on the committee of safety now sitting at Cam-
bridge, to inform them of the deep concern this Congress feel, on ac-
count of the state and situation of the cannon, and desire information
respecting the disposition of them — and that this committee forthwith
proceed on this business.
Resolved, That this Congress will now proceed to choose a commit-
tee, to consider some method of supplying the treasury.
Ordered, That Esquire Greenleaf, Mr. Hall, (in the room of Doct.
Holten,) and Mr. Batchelder, be of the committee to count and sort
the votes.
The absent members were ordered to be called in.
The Hon. Mr. Dexter, who was appointed to bring in a resolve ex-
pressive of the vote of this Congress for altering the first meeting of
the county committees, reported ; which report being read and amend-
ed, was accepted, and is as follows :
Whereas, this Congress, on the 12th day of this instant April, ap-
pointed a committee for each county, to receive from the committees
of correspondence in such counties, a state of the conduct of the
towns and districts, with respect to their having executed the conti-
nental and provincial measures for the preservation of this country
from slavery. And, whereas, the distressed circumstances 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 meet-
ing;
Therefore, Resolved, That the first meeting of said committees be
postponed to the fourth Wednesday in said month ; and it is recom-
mended 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 respect to
their outstanding province rates, any thing contained in the former re-
solve of this Congress differing herefrom notwithstanding.
1775] SECOND PROVINCIAL CONGRESS. Ifi9
Ordtreff, That the several county committees be, and they hereby
are directed to inform tlie committees of correspondence of the seve-
ral ||''towns in their respective counties|| of the purport of the fore-
going resolve.
Orrlrnd, 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 commit-
tee to consider on some method for supplying the treasury, reported
that the following gentlemen were chosen, viz. : Rev. Mr. Murray,
Col. Dexter, Col. Gerrish, Mr. Gill, Mr. Gerry, Capt. Stone ||of Fra-
minghamll and Capt. Greenleaf.
On a motion made by Rev. Mr. Murray, that he might be ex-
cused from serving on the above committee, and having offered his
reasons therefor, the question was put, whether he be excused agree-
ably to his request, from serving on said committee, and it passed in
the affirmative.
The Congress then made choice of Doct. Taylor to serve on said
committee, in the room of Mr. Murray, who hath been excused.
In Provincial Congress, \\}Fat€rtoum,\\ April 29, 1775.
The president having received a letter from Messrs. Nicholas Brown
and Joseph Brown, dated Providence, April 27th, 1775, desiring that
this Congress would observe secrecy in respect to the capture of their
brother, John Brown, at Newport, on the 26th instant, and also
another, from the Hon. Stephen Hopkins, Esq., dated Providence,
April 27th, 1775,^ presented the same to this Congress : which being
read —
;i ||countio8.||
(1) These letters are not preserved on the books or files of Congress ; the information contained
in that written hy Honorable Stephen Hopkins is repeated in a communication on the following
day, addressed to the president.
PROVIDE.N'CE, April 28, 1775.
GENTLE.MEN : — 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
ho was coming from thence with a quantity of flour, which he had purchased there. He was car-
ried on board a ship of war and confined. We have since heard that he is sent round to Boston
with the flour. I request you to give the bearers any aid and assistance in your power, for pro-
curing the relief and discharge of their brother. In my letter of yesterday to the Congress, the
measure of reprisal [by holding the British prisoners of war as hostages] was recommended : and
if it may be, I wish it may be pursued.
I am your friend and humble servant,
STEPHEN HOPKINS.
The embarrassment created by the capture of the small quantity of stores seized by the British
man of war, appears from the following letter addressed to the president of Congress.
PROVIDENCE, April 28, 1775.
SIR :— At the request of his honor the deputy governor, [Hon. Darius Sessions,] I have ander-
22
170 SECOND PROVENCIAL CONGRESS. [April 29,
Ordered, That Mr. Gerry, Col. Gerrish and Doct. Taylor be, and
hereby are appointed a committee to confer with the abovesaid Joseph
Brown, who now waits the further advice of this Congress.
Ordered, That said committee be, and they are hereby authorized
to consider what is proper to be done ; to sit forthwith, and make re-
port ||*as soon as may be.||
The president, | [likewise, || received a letter from Worcester, ^ in-
a ||forthwith.|| b ||a!so.||
taken to answer yours of the 26tli instant ; we, sir, sensibly feel the distresses of our brethren in
the Massachusetts Bay, and can only say, that, as brigadier of the tlireo battalions under my com-
mand, 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.
(1) Information of the arrival of intelligence from Europe, was contained in a most interesting let-
ter from the Hon. John Hancock, who, on his way to attend the Continental Congress, remained at
Worcester two days, waiting for suitable escort, and for the coming of his colleagues.
WORCESTER, 24th April, 1775, Monday Evening.
" GENTLEMEN : — Mr. S. Adams and myself, just arrived liere, find no intelligence from you and
no guard. We just hear an express has just passed through this place to you from New York, in-
forming that administration is bent upon pushing matters ; and that four regiments are expected
there. How are we to proceed ? Where are our brethren ? 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
conduct of the troops, the certainty of their firing first, and every circumstance relative to the
conduct of the troops, from the 19th instant to this time, that we may be able to give some account
of matters as we proceed, and especially at Philadelphia. Also I beg yon would order your secre-
tary to make out an account of your proceedings since what has taken place ; 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, &c."
" 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 miist be sent
away, or [blank] Our friends are valuable, but our country must be saved. I have an interest
in that town : what can bo 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 resolution. Do let
us know how you proceed. We must have the castle. The ships must be [blank] Slop up the
harbor against large vessels coming. You know bettor what to do than I can point out. Where is
Mr. Gushing? Are Mr. Paine and Mr. John Adams to be with us ? What are we to depend upon ?
We travel rather as deserters, which I 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 Congress 7 Who is your
president ? Are the members hearty ? Pray remember Mr. S. Adams and myself to all friends.
God be with you.
I am, gentlemen, your faithful and hearty countryman,
JOHN HANCOCK."
To the gentlemen committee of safety.
1775] SECOND PROVINCIAL CONGRESS. 171
closing one from New York, wliiclj gave information of the arrival of
a packet there, with despatches for general Gage, and recommended
that care be taken to intercept the same.
Ordered, That Col. Grout be directed to carry the letter last men-
tioned to the committee of safety, now sitting at Cambridge.
||The Congress then|| adjourned till to-morrow morning, seven
o'clock.
Sunday, April 30, 1775, A. M.
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 ac-
count.
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 ammunition,
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 de-
fence.
Capt. Foster is appointed to command one of the companies of ar-
tillery, and ordered to enlist said company.
Capt. William Lee, 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 Col, Grout be directed to request of the committee
of safety a report, respecting the inhabitants 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.
[Noon-l
The Congress ||*met at twelve o'clock, and then adjourned|| to half
an hour after one.
a Ijthen adjourned atler meeting accordiii<; to adjournment. ||
172 SECOND PROVINCIAL CONGRESS [April 30,
[Afternoon.]
II"At half an hour after one, the Congress met again, || and adjourned
to half an hour after three : at which time the Congress met again
Ordered, That another express be immediately sent to the commit-
tee of safety, to procure their result with respect to moving out the in-
habitants of Boston.
Ordered, That Col. Mosely be directed to repair forthwith to Cam-
bridge on this errand.
The president was then desired to write a short letter to said com-
mittee 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 regret, this Con-
gress find themselves obliged to send to the committee of safety a third
messenger, to request their immediate report on the subject of the re-
moval of the poor inhabitants of Boston.
To wait for that report, the Congress have suspended all proceed-
ings on that matter, and sat in almost impatient expectation, by seve-
ral 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 honor to be, with great respect. Sir,
Your most obedient humble servant,
John Murray.
To Joseph Warren, Esq.,
Chairman of the Committee of Safety :
Ordered, That Esquire Dix, Doct. Taylor and Mr. Bullen, 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 the first
meeting of the|l 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, JVatertoion, April 30, 1775.
Whereas, an agreement has been made between general Gage and
a llCongress met pursunnt to adjournment. ||
1775] SECOND PROVINCIAL CONGRESS. 173
the inhabitants of the city of Boston, for ||the|| removal of the persons
and ertocts of such of the inhiil)itaiits of tlie town of Boston as may
be so disposed, excepting tlieir fire arms and ammunition, into the
country :
Resolved, That any of the inhabitants of this colony, who may in-
cline 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 injury and insult whatsoever in their removal to
Boston, and that this resolve be immediately published.
P. S. — Officers are appointed for giving permits for the above pur-
poses ; 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, Charlestown and Cambridge.
Resolved, That the resolution of Congress, relative to the removal of
the inhabitants of Boston, be authenticated, and sent to the selectmen
of Boston, immediately, to be communicated to general Gage, and
also be published in the Worcester and Salem papers.
Ordered, That Doct. Taylor, Mr. Bailey, Mr. Lothrop, Mr. Holmes
and Col. Farley, be a committee to consider 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 sit forth-
with.
||Then|| adjourned till to-morrow morning, seven o'clock.
[Monday,] May 1, 1775, [A. M.j
The committee who were appointed to consider what steps are ne-
cessary to be taken with respect to assisting the poor of Boston in
moving out with their effects, reported. The report was recommitted
for amendment, and Capt. Smith, of Granby, Col. Mosely, Capt.
Goodridge and Major Smith were added to the committee.
Ordered, That Mr. Patridge, Doct. 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, re-
ported several extracts of letters for publication, which are ordered to
be delivered to Mr. Hall, of Salem, for that purpose.^
(I) The letters published by Mr. Hall, appear to have been intercepted communications from sol-
diers, in Boston, relating to the incidents of the march to Concord. They will be annexed to the
narrative of that excursion, in the Appendix.
174 SECOND PROVINCIAL CONGRESS. [May 1,
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.
The Congress then adjourned to three o'clock this afternoon.
Afternoon.
A letter brought from North Hampton, by express, from Major
Hawley, respecting the bearer of despatches from general Gage, was
read : on which. Ordered, that Col. Gerrish, Esquire Gardner and Ma-
jor Gooding, be a committee to take the same into consideration, and
report.
The committee appointed to consider the letter from Major Hawley, re-
ported, that the most likely way of detecting the bearer of the despatches
to general 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, together
with two anonymous letters from London, were ordered to be sent to
the said committee of safety.
Moved, That William Reed, Esq. be admitted in this house, to rep-
resent to this Congress the sufferings he met with on the 19th April,
at Lexington. The question being put, after debate had thereon, it
passed in the negative.
Ordered, That Capt. Bragdon, Capt. Dix and Mr. Gill, be a com-
mittee to confer with the abovenamed Esquire Reed, and to make re-
port 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 purpose, and
after debates had thereon it was ordered to be recommitted.
The committee appointed to prepare the form of a commission for
the officers of the colony army, reported. The form which they re-
ported 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 courage 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.
1775] SECOND PROVINCIAL CONGRESS. 175
You are, therefore, carefully and diliirently to discharge the duty ot
a ill IcadinjT, orderiiifr and exorcisinij the said in
arms, botli inferior oilicers and soldiers, and to keep them in good or-
der and discipline ; and they are hereby commanded to obey you as
their ; and you are yourself to observe and follow such or-
ders 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 superior offi-
cers, according to the military rules and discipline in war, in pursuance
of the trust reposed in you.
By order of the Congress,
, the of A. D. 1775.
President pro tempore.
Secretary pro tempore.
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, \^Watertoivn,\ 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 ||of
Congress. II
The committee who were appointed to consider of measures for as-
sisting the poor of Boston to move out of said town, having amended
their report, again reported : which report being read ||and amended, ||
was accepted, and one hundred and fifty copies thereof ordered to be
printed, and a copy ||thereof || forthwith transmitted to the committee
of donations, in Boston, and that Mr. Gill take the charge of trans-
mitting the same. The report is as follows, viz. :
176 SECOND PROVINCIAL CONGRESS. [May 1,
In Provincial Congress, \\Wcd€rtoton,\\ May 1, 1775.
Whereas, the inhabitants of the town of Boston have been detained
by general Gage, but at length, by agreement, 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 recommended to
all the good people of this colony, and especially to the selectmen, and
committee of correspondence most convenient to Boston, that they
aid and assist such poor inhabitants Ijof said townH (with teams, wag-
gons, &c.,) as shall procure a certificate from the committee of dona-
tions, that they are unable to remove themselves ; and it is further re-
commended to the selectmen of the several towns specified in the
schedule annexed, to provide for said inhabitants in the best and
most prudent way ||and manner, |1 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 schedule, 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 public 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 recom-
mended to said committee of donations, that they make up said de-
ficiency, and lay their accounts before the Congress for allowance, which
reasonable expense shall be paid out of the public treasury of the col-
ony : and it is further Resolved, that the inhabitants of Boston thus re-
moved shall not, in future, be considered as the poor of said town into
which they remove ; and it is to be understood, 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 ||accordingl| to this
regulation ;
County of Suffolk. — Wrentham, 89 persons ; Stoughtonham,
32 ; Medway, 38 ; Bellingham, 25 ; Walpole, 31 ; . 215
Middlesex. — Concord ,66; Marlborough, 80; Billerica,54; Fra-
mingham, 63 ; Chelmsford, 49 ; Sherburne, 31 ; Sudbury,
85 ; Weston, 41 ; Westford, 45 ; Littleton, 41 ; Hopkin-
ton, 42 ; Stow, 36; Groton,61; Pepperel,34; Townsend,
26; Natick,20; Dracnt, 35 ; Bedford, 29; Holliston, 34;
1775] SECOND PROVINCIAL CONGRESS. 177
Tewksbury, 28 ; Acton, 32 ; Dunstable, 30 ; Lincoln, 29;
Wilmington, 25 ; . . . 1016
P/ymoi/fA.— Bridgewater, 81 ; Abington, 22 ; Halifax, 12; . 115
Bristol. — Taunton, 103; Rehoboth, 129; Dartmouth, 113;
Norton, 47; Mansfield, 30 ; Attleborough, 75; Raynham,
31 ; Easton, Jio ; Berkley, 25 ; . . .588
Berkshire. — Sheffield, 54 ; Great Barrington, 24 ; Stock-
bridge, 25; Pittsfield, 31; New Marlborough, 30 ; Egre-
mont, 13; Richmond, 23; Lenox, 16; Tyringham, 13;
Lanesborough, 32; Sandisfield, 23; Williamstown, 20;
East Hoosock, 10; . . . . 314
Hampshire. — Springfield, 68 ; Wilbraham, 31 ; Northamp-
ton, 70; Southampton, 25; Hadley, 30; South Hadley,
23; Amherst, 34; Granby, 17; Hatfield, 35; Whately,
13 ; Williamsburg, 9 ; Westfield, 50 ; Deerfield, 36 ; Green-
field, 24 ; Shelburne, 14; Conway, 17; Sunderland, 19;
Montague, 18; Northfield, 26; Brimfield, 44; South
Brimfield, 26; Monson, 23; Pelham, 25; Greenwich,
24 ; Blandford, 19 ; Leverett, 4 ; Palmer, 25 ; Granville,
44; New Salem, 22; Belchertown, 28; Colrain, 17;
Ware, 13; Warwick, 10; Bernardston, 14; Murraysfield,
17; Charlemont, 12; Worthington, 6; Shutesbury, 14;
Chesterfield, 22; Southwick, 19; West Springfield, 72;
Ludlow, 10 ; . . . . . . [788]
Worcester. — Worcester, 82 ; Lancaster, 103; Mendon, 76;
Brookfield, 99 ; Oxford, 35 ; Charlton, 35 ; Sutton, 98 ;
Leicester, 36; Spencer, 31; Paxton, 20; Rutland, 48:
Oakham, 14; Hutchinson, 42; Hubbardston, 9; New
Braintree, 32 ; Southborough, 36 ; Westborough, 38
Northborough, 25 ; Shrewsbury, 32 ; Lunenburg, 51
Fitchburg, 19; Uxbridge, 36 ; Harvard, 50 ; Dudley, 32
Bolton, 48; Upton, 20; Sturbridge, 45; Leominster, 38;
Hardwick, 55; Holden, 26; Weston, 35; Douglass, 22:
Grafton, 38; Petersham, 38 ; Royalston, 8; Westminster,
31; Athol, 20; Templeton, 25; Princeton, 24 ; Ashburn-
ham, 12 ; Winchendon, 9 ; Northbridge, 13 ; . . [539]
Whole amount, ..... 4903
23
178 SECOND PROVINCIAL CONGRESS. [May 2,
Ordered, That Mr. Partridge, Mr. Lothrop and Doct. Baylies, be di-
rected to assist the secretary in copying the foregoing report.
The committee appointed to confer with William Reed, Esq., re-
ported the following [statements of losses sustained by each from the
British troops,] presented to them by William Reed, Esq., of Lexing-
ton, in behalf of Joseph Loring, Joseph Loring, Jun., Widow Mulli-
ken and Joseph Pond, viz. -.^
Whereupon, Ordered, That the committee of supplies be, and they
are hereby directed to deliver to said William Reed, Esq., or to his
order, for the use of the said Joseph Loring, Joseph Loring, Jun.,
Widow Mulliken and Joseph Pond, one barrel of pork.
Ordered, That Mr. Hollock, Col. Howe and Capt. White, be a
committee to consider what is proper to be done with respect to fur-
nishing the army with some present necessaries.
All [the] committees [were] enjoined to sit.
Adjourned to nine o'clock to-morrow morning.
[Tuesday,] May 2, [1775, A. M.]
Resolved, That another president be chosen pro tempore, and that
he be chosen by nomination.
Col. Warren was then nominated and chosen.
Ordered, That Mr. Partridge, Doct. Taylor and Mr. ||"Dix,|l be a
committee to wait on Col. Warren, and inform him of said choice.
Col. Warren accordingly attended, and, after offering his reasons for
excuse. Moved, that a committee be appointed to wait on Doct. Joseph
Warren, informing him of the absence of the Rev. Mr. Murray, who
has lately officiated as president ||of this Congress,|| and to know ||of
Doct. Warren 1 1 if he can now attend the Congress in that station.
Whereupon, Ordered, that Doct. Dunsmore be a committee for that
purpose.^
Ordered, That Col. Gerrish, Col. Warren, Hon. Mr. Dexter, Mr.
a IIDicks.ll
(1) These statements have shared tlic fate of many of the most interesting documents of the
time, and are not on the files. From some representations suhsequently made, it appears, that the
loss sustained hy Deacon Joseph Loring, was estimated to be £720 ; that of Mrs. Lydia Mulliken,
£431 ; including buildings, household furniture and wearing apparel. The house of Deacon Lor-
ing, near the spot where the brigade of Lord Percy joined the retreating detachment under Lieut.
Col. Smith, is stated by himself to have been the first destroyed by the troops, in Lexington, on the
memorable 19th of April. From the nature of the relief granted by Congress, it may be presumed,
that some of the petitioners had suffered so severely as to be without the means of providing food.
(2) The reply to the invitation of Congress is brief:
" Doct. Warren presents his respects to the honorable Provincial Congress : informs them that
he will obey their order, and attend his duty in Congress in the afternoon."
Cambridge, May 2, 1775.
1775.] SECOND PROVINCIAL CONGRESS. 179
Gill, and Capt. Brown of Abington, be a committee to consider the
propriety of takinir measures for securing the records of those coun-
ties which are more immediately exposed in this day of danger.
Ordcnil, That the Hon. Mr. Dexter, Col. Warren and Mr. Gill, be
a committee to |)rcpare a draught of a letter to the delegates of Con-
gress, now in Connecticut, giving them instructions with respect to the
arrival at this colony of two gentlemen from the assembly of Connec-
ticut, with an address to general Gage, and a commission to treat with
him respecting a cessation of hostilities, &i.c.
Ordirtd, That Capt. Stone of Oakham, Deacon Rawson and Ma-
jor 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 ||who were|| appointed to consider what |l*is|l proper
to be done with respect to furnishing the army with some present ne-
cessaries, reported : the report was read, and ordered to lie on the ta-
ble for the present.
A letter from Manchester to Doct. Taylor, respecting a computa-
tion of the taxes paid by Great Britain and America, &.c., was read :
Whereupon, Ordered, That Mr. Webster, Deacon Cheever, and
Capt. Stone ||of Framingham,|| be a committee to take the said letter
into consideration, and make report.
The committee who were appointed to prepare a letter to the dele-
gates 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 opin-
ion of the virtue and public 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 gentle-
men of the first character from that colony, with an address to general
Gace, and a commission to treat with him on the subject of American
grievances; and to propose, as we are informed, a cessation of hostili-
ties, 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 detestable purpose, to
spread slaughter and HMesolationH 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
a llmight be.]i b |]destruction.||
180 SECOND PROVINCIAL CONGRESS. [May 2,
of God and the king ; and by other acts of injustice and cruelty ; we
cannot but be greatly alarmed for the consequences. Any interrup-
tions of that happy union of the colonies which has taken place, would
prove of the most fatal tendency, and we cannot but view every kind
of negociation between any colony and the chief instrument of minis-
terial vengeance here, as being likely to operate towards such an in-
terruption. We apprehend that things are now reduced to such a
state, that nothing but an immediate recourse to arras, 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, nu-
gatory and vain. Any proposals, either to parliament, to the ministry,
or to their agents here, made separately by a single colony, may pro-
duce most tremendous events with regard to America ; and we ap-
prehend 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 vigor at this alarming crisis; and so fear-
ful of any measures taking place, whereby the common cause may be
endangered, that we have unanimously concluded it necessary to sug-
gest to you our fears respecting the effects of this embassy from Con-
necticut to [general] Gage; and we expect ||that|| you will make a
proper representation of the sentiments of this Congress to their assem-
bly, in hopes that you will receive such an explanation of their mo-
tives, and such assurances of their intention immediately to co-operate
with this colony, as may remove every gloomy apprehension, and con-
firm us in that high estimation in which we have ever held the respec-
table colony of Connecticut.
P. S. — If the assembly should be dissolved, it is expected that you
will tarry to treat with the next assembly.^
To Jedediah Foster, Timothy Danielson and John Bliss, Esquires,
(1) Doct. Samuel Johnson and Col. Oliver Wolcot were commissioned to deliver the following
letter from the governor, in behalf of the general assembly of Connecticut, to general Gage.
HARTFORD, April 28, 1775.
To his excellency Thomas Oage •
" SIR: — The alarming situation of public affairs in this country, and the late unfortunate transac-
tions in the province of the Massachusetts Bay, have induced the general assembly of this colo-
ny now sitting in this place, to appoint a committee of their body to wait upon your excellency,
and to desire me, in their name, to write to you relative to these very interesting matters."
" The inhabitants of this colony are intimately connected with the people of your province, and
esteem themselves bound, by the strongest ties of friendship, as well as of common interest, to re-
gard whatever concerns them. You will not, therefore, bo surprised, that your first arrival in Bos-
ton, with a body of his majesty's troops, for the declared purpose of carrying into execution certain
1775.]
SECOND PROVINCIAL CONGRESS. 181
Oil a motion made, Ordind, That, at three o'clock this afternoon,
this Congress do take into consideration the precepts issued by gene-
ral Gage for calling a general assembly.
ncU of iiiirliiiiniMit, wliicli, in tlicir iipprpiiensioii, worn uiiroiistilutional and opprcBHivc, should
liiivo given the ■,'ihmI people iif thin colony ii very jiiHt iind gencriil iilurni ; your Bubsequent proceed-
ingK in rorlirying tlie town of lioHton, iind other niilitiiry prepnr.'itioiiH, },'re;itly inereiiBcd Iho nppre-
licnHions for tlio Hiilety of their friends iind brethren ; tliey could not ho unconcerned Bpectators of
llieir sulVeringB, in tlmt which they entoenied the common chiihc of their country ; but the late hog-
tile Hnd secret inroads of some of the troopB under your command into the lionrt of the country,
and the violences they have committed, liavc driven them almost into a stiite of desperation. They
feol now, not only for their friends, but for tliemselvch, and tlicir dearest interests and connections. We
wish not to exaggerate ; wo are not sure of every pnrt of our information ; but, by the best intelli-
gence 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 has been represented to us, that such out-
rages 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 wo 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? and to what end are all tlie hostile preparations that are daily making, and why do
we continually hear of fresh destinations of troops for this country? The people of this colony,
you may rely "|ion it, abhor the idea of taking arms against the troops of their sovereign, and
dread nothing so much as the horrors of civil war ; but, at the same time, we beg leave to assure
your excellency, that as tliey apiirehended themselves justified by the principle of self-defence, so
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 tliis most important sul)ject, as far as is consist-
ent with your duty to our common sovereign. Is tliere no way to prevent this unhappy dispute
from coming to extremities ? Is there no alternative but absolute submission, or the desolations of
war? By that humanity which constitutes so amiable a part of your character, for the Iionor of
our sovereign, and by the glory of the British empire, we entreat you, to prevent it, if it be possi-
ble : surely it is to be hoped tliat the temjierate wisdom of the empire might, even yet, find expe-
dients to restore peace, that so all parts of the empire may enjoy their particular rights, honors and
immunities. Certainly, this is an event most devoutly to be wished for, and will it not be consist-
ent 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, we doiilit not, sufficiently apologise 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 favorable answer in your power.
I am, with great esteem and respect, in behalf of the general assembly. Sir, &c.,
JONATHAN TRUMBULL."
The reply of general Gage, a dignified and able paper, follows :
BOSTON, 3d May, 1775.
" SIR :— I am to acknowledge the receipt of your letter of the 28th April last, in behalf of tho
general assembly of your colony, relative to the alarming situation of public affairs in this country,
and tho 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 ev-
ery well wisher for the peace, prosperity and happiness of this province. The intimate connection
and strong ties of friendsiiip between 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 supposed grievances, in those decent and constitutional methods, in which
alone they can hope to be successful."
" That troops should be employed for the purjmse 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 govern-
ment. That any acts of tho British parliament are unconstitutional or opprossJTo, I am not to sup-
182 SECOND PROVINCIAL CONGRESS. [May 2
Resolved, That Capt. Goodman be |l^desired|| to take the charge of
transmitting, forthwith, the letter to the delegates of this colony now
in Connecticut.
pose ; if any such there arc, in the apprehension of the pcoplo of thi.s provini'e, it had been happy
for them if tliey had souglit relief, only the in way which the constitution, their reason and their
interest pointed out."
" You cannot wonder at my fortifying the town of Boston, or making any other military prepara-
tions, 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 ray indispensable duty
to take every precaution in my power, for the protection 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 dis-
claim, with indignation, the barbarous outrages of which they are accused, so contrary to their
known humanity. I have taken the greatest pains to discover if any were committed, and have
found examples of their tenderness, both to the young and the old, but no vestige of cruelty or
■barbarity. It is very possible, that in firing into houses, from whence they were fired upon, tiiat old
people, women or children may have suff"ered ; 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 aftair, taken from gentlemen of indis-
putable honor and veracity who were eye witnesses of all the transactions of that day. The lead-
ers here have taken pains to prevent any account of this affair getting abroad, but such as they
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 ac-
counts have been spread throughout the continent, which have 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 prerogatives of the king, the levying of troops and disposing of the public 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 possible, the calamities of a civil
war, by destroying such magazines. This, and this alone, I attempted."
" ifou 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 prepa-
rations you mention, are such as tiie conduct of the people of this province have rendered it jjrudent
to make, for the defence of those under ray command. You assure me, the people of your colony
abhor the idea of taking up arms against the troops of their sovereign ; I wisli the people of this
province, for their own sakes, could make the same declaration."
" You enquire, is there no way to prevent this unhappy dispute from coming to ejjtremities ? is
there no alternative but absolute submission or the desolations of war ? I answer I hope there is.
The king and parliament seem to hold out terras of reconciliation, consistent with the honor and
interest of Great Britain, and th3 rights and privileges of the colonies. They have mutually de-
clared their readiness to attend to any real grievances of the colonies, and to aft'ord them every
just and reasonable indulgence, 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, between countries so nearly connected by
the ties of blood and interest ; but I fear that the leaders of this province have been, and still are,
intent only on shedding blood."
" I am much obliged by your favorable sentiments of my jjersonal character; and assure you, as it
has been my constant wish and endeavor hitherto, so I shall continue to exert my utmost efforts to
a ||directcd.||
177',.] SECOND PROVINCIAL CONGRESS. |R3
Ordered, That a postscript be added to said letter, instructing said
delepatrs, that if tlieir assembly should bo dissolved, they tarry thoro,
to treat with the new assembly.
The llCongress then|| adjourned to three o'clock this afternoon.
Afternoon.
A letter was presented to this Congress by Esquire Aikin, from Mr.
Lemuel Williams, dated Dartmouth, May I, 1775,' to said Aikin, which
was read : whereupon, Ordered, that Mr. Batchelder, Esquire Dix,
Col. Farley, Mr. Greonleaf 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 attend 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, ten o'clock, A. M.
Ordrnd, That Deacon Cheevcr, Col. Warren, Mr. Gill, Hon. Mr.
De.xter, and the president, be a committee to bring in a resolve for the
purpose of granting 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.
||The committee on the letter from Lemuel Williams to Esquire
Aikin, reported verbally. The matter was ordered to subside. ||
Ordered, That Mr. Gerry, President Warren, Hon. Mr. Dexter,
Col. Warren and Col. Gerrish, be a committee to forward an express
to the Hon. Continental Congress, with authenticated copies of the
depositions, and address to the inhabitants of Great Britain, and letter
to Mr. Franklin, lately sent to Great Britain, per Capt. Derby of Sa-
lem ; 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
protect all his majesty's liego .suiijcrts nn<lcr my carr, in tlicir persons 1.11J property. Vou ask,
wliptlicr it will not bp consistent with my duty to suspend the operations of war on my part, &.c. ? I
have commenced no operations of war hut defensive ; such you cannot wish me to suspend, while I
am surrounded by an armed country, who have already begun, and threaten farther to prosecute an
offensive war ; and are now violently depriving me, the ting's troops, and many others of the king's sub-
jects 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 es-
teem it my greatest happiness, to defend and protect them against every species of violence and op-
pression.
I am, with great regard and esteem. Sir, your most obedient humble servant,
THO.MAS G.VGE."
The Hon. Oor. Trumbull.
(1) The enquiry was proposed by Mr. Williams, whether it would be proper for the merchants of
Dartmouth to send their vessels to sea. The opinion expressed by the committee was, that they
ohould be, restrained in port.
184 SECOND PROVINCIAL CONGRESS. [May 2,
to report an application to be sent by said express to the Continental
Congress.
Col. Learned Moved, That the sense of this Congress might be
taken, whether the regiment he is now raising may be a regiment ol
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 propor-
tion of the town's stock of powder, &c., 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, till 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 accepted, and is as follows, viz. :
[In Provincial Congress, Watertoivn, 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, except-
ing 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 business
it shall be to continue with him till he returns, and that permits, agree-
able to the intention of this resolve, be granted.] ^
The committee appointed to devise ways and means for supplying
the treasury, reported as to the first step, and asked leave to sit again.
Ordered, That Mr. Freeman, Doct. Taylor, Mr. Lewis, Col. Dwight
and Esquire Gardner, be a committee to consider what measures are
proper to be taken for liberating those persons who were taken prison-
ers by the troops under the command of general Gage, on the I9th
[of April last.]
All the committees ||of the Congress wereH enjoined to sit, l|and
then the Congress|l adjourned till to-morrow morning, nine o'clock.
[Wednesday,] May 3, 1775, [A. M.]
Ordered, That Deacon Cheever be desired to make application to
the Rev. Doct. Cooper, to request that he would officiate as chaplain
for this Congress during its session in this place.
(1) This resolve is restored to the Journal from a copy made by Mr. Secretary Freeman.
1775.] SECOND PROVINCIAL CONGRESS. 185
(h-(in-t(l, That Doct, Taylor, Mr. Lothrop and Mr. Paine, be a com-
mittee to forward the proclamations, for a fast, into the country, as
soon as possible.
Resolved, That this last mentioned order be reconsidered ; and
thereupon, Ordcnd, that tiie committee who were appointed at Con-
cord for dispersing the proclamations, be required to perform their duty
with all possible expedition.
On the application from tlie committee of safety, relative to supply-
ing Col. Arnold with one hundred pounds [lawful money,] and sundry
warlike stores ;
Ordered, That Mr. Grccnleaf, Mr. Gill and Mr. Partridge, be a
committee to take said application into consideration, and report.
The committee on the application from the committee of safety, re-
ported : [the report was] read and accepted, and is as followeth :
In Provincial Congress, Watertovm, May 3, 1775.
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 Col. Benedict Arnold with ten horses, two hun-
dred pounds of gunpowder, two hundred pounds of lead balls, and one
thousand flints, at the expense of the colony, and that said committee
draw upon Henry Gardner, Esq., receiver general, for one hundred
pounds, [lawful money,] in favor of said Arnold, 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 Col. Warren, Doct. Holten, Mr. Dix, Col. Farley
and Doct. Taylor, 'be a committee to |l*overlook the commission of the
committee of safety, and the commission of the committee of sup-
plies,|| 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 resolve, em-
powering the treasurer to borrow a certain sum of money, and the
form of a note, to be by him given to the lender, &:-c., reported ; the
report [was] amended, read and accepted, and is as followeth :
Resolved, That the receiver general be, and hereby is empowered
and directed, to borrow the sum of one hundred thousand pounds,
lawful money, and issue colony securities for the same, payable with
annual interest, at six per cent., June I, 1777, and that the Continen-
tal Congress be desired to recommend to the several colonies to give a
currency to such securities.
a llascertain the power of the committees of supplies and of SLifetv-||
24
186 SECOND PROVINCIAL CONGRESS. [May 3
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. Dili .
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, I do hereby promise and oblige
myself, and my successors in the office of treasurer or receiver general,
to repay to the said A. B., or to his order, on the first day of 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 ||made and passed in the twenty-
second year of his late majesty king George the Second, entitled an
act] I for ascertaining the rates at which coined silver and gold, English
half-pence and farthings, may pass within this government, and accord-
ing to the rates therein mentioned, with interest, to be paid annually,
at six per cent.
A. B. \ Witness my hand,
I!
C. D.\£
E. F. j H. G.
The committee on the letter from Mr. Lee to Doct. 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 Congress will
take into consideration the propriety of establishing pay for a brigade
major.
Ordered, That at five o'clock this afternoon, the Congress will come
to the choice of a committee of three [persons,] by ballot, to procure
a copper plate for printing the colony notes, and to countersign them.
Ordered, That the committee who reported a resolve relative to bor-
rowing money, &-c., bring in a resolve that no note be given by the
receiver general for a less sum than four pounds.
Adjourned till three o'clock, P. M.
Afternoon.
The committee appointed to bring in a resolve that no note be given
1775.] SECOND PROVINCIAL CONGRESS. 187
by the receiver general lor any sum less than four pounds, reported ;
and the report was amended and accepted, and is as I'ollows :
Whereas, inconveniences may arise by the receiver general's 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. Or-
dered, 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, in advance.
The order of the day [was] moved for.
Resolved, That Capt. Parker, Col. How and Col. Farley, be a com-
mittee 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, ||Capt. Brown|| and Capt. Brown of
Watertown, be a committee to count and sort the votes for a commit-
tee to procure a copperplate for printing the colony notes, and to
countersign them. The committee having attended that service, re-
ported, that the Hon. Samuel Dexter, Esq., Doct. Joseph Warren and
Mr. Moses Gill, were chosen.
Mr. Cheever, who was appointed to wait on the Rev. Doct. Cooper,
and desire his attendance on this Congress, to officiate as their chap-
lain, 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 ac-
cording to the desire of the Congress.
The committee appointed to report a letter to the Continental Con-
gress, reported. The report was read and accepted, and ordered to
be copied, and forwarded as soon as may be, and is as follows, viz. :
To the Honorable Amcriean Continental Congress, to be convened at
Philadelphia, on the tenth of May instant :
May it please your honors : — The Congress of this colony, im-
pressed with the deepest concern for their country, under the present
critical and alarming state of its public affairs, beg leave, with the
most respectful submission, whilst acting in support of the cause of
America, to request the direction and assistance of your respectable
assembly.
188 SECOND PROVINCIAL CONGRESS. [May 3,
The enclosed packet, containing the copies of depositions which we
have despatched for London, also an address 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 governments
of Rhode Island and Connecticut colonies, for furnishing men in the
same proportion. The sudden exigency of our public affairs preclu-
ded the possibility of waiting for your direction in these important
measures ; more especially, as a considerable reenforcement from Great
Britain is daily expected in this colony, and we are now reduced to
the sad alternative of defending by arms, or submitting to be slaugh-
tered.
With the greatest deference, we beg leave to suggest, that a power-
ful army, on the side of America, hath been considered by this Con-
gress as the only mean left to stem ||^1| the rapid progress of a tyrannical
ministry. Without a force superior to our enemies, we must reasona-
bly expect to become 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 America, and the wicked au-
thors of our miseries brought to condign punishment, by the just in-
dignation 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, nevertheless, 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
continent to support us, so far as it shall appear necessary for support-
ing the common cause of the American colonies.
We also enclose several resolves for empowering and directing our
receiver general to borrow the sum of ^'100,000, lawful money, and
a ||the torrent and.||
1775] SECOND PROVINCIAL CONGRESS. 189
to issue his notes for the saine ; it l)eing the only measure which we
could have recourse to for supportinir our forces ; and we request your
assistance, in rendering our measures effectual, by giving our notes
currency through the continent.
Onli rrd, That Col. Davis be desired to wait on the Rev. Mr Gor-
don, and desire that he would attend on this Congress, and officiate as
their cliaplain, during their session in llie town of Watertown.
The committee who were appointed to take under consideration the
advance pay to the soldiers, reported. The report was recommitted,
and Capt. Stone ||of Framingham|| and Doct. Taylor, added to the
conunittee.
[The committee who were appointed to consider what measures are
proper to be taken for liberating those persons who were taken prison-
ers by the troops, under general Gage, on the 19th of April, reported
a resolve, which was read and accepted, and Ordered, that any mem-
ber who desires a copy may have one. The resolve is as follows :]
In Provincial Congress, Watertovm, 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
I9th of April last, and are by him so held :]
[^Rexolvcd, That it is the opinion of this Congress that an applica-
tion be sent to general Gage, signed by the wives or nearest relations
of such prisoners, and the selectmen of the towns to which they re-
spectively 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 19th of
April, upon his liberating their friends as aforesaid.]
IJThe Congressll then adjourned to nine o'clock to-morrow morning.
[Thursday,] May 4, [1775, A. M.]
Col. Davis, who was appointed to wait upon the Rev. 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 he would attend accordingly.
The committee who were appointed to take into consideration the
advance pay to the soldiers, again reported ; which report was read,
amended and accepted, and ordered to be authenticated, and sent
forthwith to head quarters. It is as follows :
190 SECOND PROVINCIAL CONGRESS. [May 4,
Whereas, the distressed state of this colony, at this alarming crisis,
calls for its utmost exertions, that the army now to be raised be forth-
with completed : therefore. Resolved, that each non commissioned offi-
cer and private soldier, who has, or shall, enlist himself into the ser-
vice of this colony, shall have twenty shillings paid him out of the re-
ceiver 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 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, ac-
cording to the tenor of this resolve, as soon as said men shall have en-
listed themselves, and be duly sworn, and give his bond, with suffi-
cient surety, to the receiver general, therefor ; said bond to be dis-
charged by a receipt produced, by said officer, from each non commis-
sioned officer and private soldier, that he has received the same.
On an application made to this Congress, for an order on the com-
mittee of supplies, for one barrel of powder, for the use of the inhab-
itants of Falmouth, in Casco Bay ; Ordered, that this matter be refer-
red to the said committee of supplies, they to act thereon as they think
best.
The order of the day [was] moved for.
The absent members were ordered to be called in.
On a motion made, that a committee be appointed to bring in a re-
solve containing a reconsideration of a resolve, passed by this Con-
gress, at Concord, the first of April 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 re-
commending to the several towns and districts 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.
Col. Warren, Mr. Gerry, Col. Gerrish, Doct. Holten and Col. Man-
dell, were accordingly appointed for this purpose.
Ordered, That Capt. Stone of Framingham, Mr. Bent and Major
Fuller, be a committee to examine the returns of the several town
and district stocks of powder, and to bring in a resolve recommending
to such towns as they think proper, which are not immediately ex-
posed, to furnish the towns of Falmouth and Arundel with one barrel
of powder each.
Then adjourned to three o'clock this afternoon.
1775] SECOND PROVINCIAL CONGRESS. 191
AClcinoon,
Kisoliuf/, That Gen. Putnatn and Col. Porter, who were, with other
of the committee of safety, appointed by the said coiiimitlee of safety,
and the council of war, to lay some special matters before this Con-
gress, be admitted into this house, and that Col. Warren, Mr. Devens
and Col. Gerrish, be a committee to introduce them l|accordingly.|l
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 as-
sembly of Connecticut, to execute an embassy to general Gage, had
come out of Boston, with letters from him to the assembly of Connec-
ticut, of which they thought it proper to inform this Congress, that
they might take order thereon, if they thought fit : whereupon, Or-
dered, that the president, Col. Warren, Doct. Holten, Col. Gerrish,
Col. Palmer, Doct. Baylies, Doct. Taylor, Mr. Gardner, Mr. Partridge,
Mr. Gerry and Mr. Mills, together with the committee from the com-
mittee of safety, and council of war, be a committee to hold a confer-
ence with the said Connecticut delegates, and to attend forthwith.
The committee appointed to enquire 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
necessity 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 inconsistent with their honor, and the interest of
the colonies, to open it ; but that they would use their influence, when
they returned, to have the contents of it communicated 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, Col. Warren, Col. Dwight, Mr. Gerry
and Col. Holten, be a committee to return the compliments to the gen-
tlemen from Connecticut, for their patient attendance to the inquiry
made of them by this Congress, respecting their embassy to general
Gage.
Moved, That the resolve passed yesterday, respecting advance pay
for the soldiers, be reconsidered, so far as it respects muster masters,
192 SECOND PROVINCIAL CONGRESS. [May 5,
and that two muster masters be appointed by this Congress. After de-
bate [the matter was] ordered to subside.
Ordered, That the president, Mr. Gerry and Col. Warren, be a com-
mittee to prepare a letter to the assembly of Connecticut, respecting
their late application to general Gage.
Ordered, That Capt. Stone, Mr. Mills, Capt. McCobb, Doct. Per-
kins, Col. Grout and Mr. Kollock, be directed to copy the depositions
of the late hostile proceedings of general Gage's troops, to be trans-
mitted to Connecticut.
Then adjourned to to-morrow morning, nine o'clock.
[Friday,] May 5, 1775, [A. M.]
Ordered, That Deacon Stickney and Mr. Webster be added to the
committee who were appointed to examine the returns, and districts'
stock of powder, &,c., May 4th, A. M.
Ordered, That Doct. Taylor, Mr. Batchelder and Doct. Holten, be a
committee to bring in a resolve relative to an obstruction to the remov-
ing 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 which passed this Con-
gress the 2d instant, giving license to those persons in Boston, who
incline, to send a servant out for their effects, be authenticated, and
transmitted to Gen. Ward.
The committee who were appointed to bring in two resolves respect-
ing general Gage's writs for calling an assembly, reported : both of
which were read and accepted, and are as follow, viz. :
Whereas, this Congress did, at their session at Concord, on the first
day of April 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 con-
sequences of a dangerous nature would result from the operation of
that resolution : therefore, Resolved, that the said vote and resolution
be reconsidered, and it is hereby reconsidered, and declared null and
void.
Whereas, his excellency general Gage, since his arrival into this col-
ony, hath conducted as an instrument in the hands of an arbitrary
ministry to enslave this people, and a detachment ||of the troops, || un-
der his command, have, of late, been ||by him|| ordered to the town of
Concord, to destroy the public stores deposited in that place for the
use of the colony : .-md, whereas, by this clandestine and perfidious
1775] SECOND PROVINCIAL CONGRESS. 19:1
nioasiire, a number of ros|)octal)lc inhabitants of tlie colony, without
any |)rovocation H^iven by tlieni,|| have been illetrally, wantonly and
inhumanly slaughtered by the troops : therefore, Jirso/iur/, that the
said general Gage hath, by these means, and many others, utterly dis-
qualified liimself to serve this colony as a governor, 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 as-
sembly, 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.
Ordrnd, That Mr. Gardner, Col. Dwight and Col. Warren, be a
committee to bring in a resolve, recommending to the several towns
and districts in this colony, 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 inhab-
itants of Boston, reported : which report was ordered to be recommit-
ted, and that Mr. Gill and Mr. Partridge be added to the committee.
The committee who were yesterday appointed to prepare a letter to
the assembly of Connecticut, reported a letter, which was read, amend-
ed and accepted, and is as follows :
To the Honorable , the Governor and Company of the \YColony\\ of
Connecticut :
Gentlemen : — The delegates appointed by your || ''respectable] | as-
sembly, to treat with general Gage on the late unhappy events which
have occured in this colony, have favored us with a conference, and
communicated the substance of their interview with him. We are
greatly alarmed at the unparalleled wickedness of our unnatural ene-
mies, in endeavoring to persuade our sister colony, that the inhabitants
of this, first commenced hostilities ; a suggestion which, we cannot but
think, will appear absurd, when the great inequality of the Lexington
company and the detachment of regular troops, which attacked them,
is coolly considered.
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
a ||State.|| 1) ||rcspectfui.||
25
194 SECOND PROVINCIAL CONGRESS. [May 5,
despatched for London, containing the most incontestable evidence,
that the king's troops first fired upon, and killed, several of the inhab-
itants of this colony, before any injury was offered to them. We also
enclose you the copies of an address to the inhabitants of Great Bri-
tain, and of a letter to our colony agent, and think it expedient to sus-
pend 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 con-
vinced us, that but little dependence can be placed in his professions.
Whilst he has been collecting his forces, fortifying our capital, and in
every other respect preparing for war, we have been amused with his
pretensions to benevolence and kindness, evidently calculated to retard
the measures which we were necessarily pursuing for self defence.
And we are constrained to declare, that should he be, at any future
time, possessed of forces superior to those raised for opposing him, we
should, from his past conduct, have no hopes ||leftl| of escaping the
heaviest vengeance which ministerial tyranny can devise, assisted by
the most inveterate enemies to mankind in general, and of this their
native country in particular. 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 constantly
aiming to suspend their H'preparationsH for defence, until his reenforce-
ments shall arrive ; but, although we have been under great apprehen-
sions with respect to the advantages which the conference of Connec-
ticut, with general Gage, ||''might|| give our enemies, yet, we have the
greatest confidence in the wisdom and vigilance of your respectable
assembly and colony, as well as of our other sister colonies ; 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 HHranscribedH and au-
thenticated, and committed to the care of Col. Dwight, together with
a copy of the depositions respecting the late hostile proceedings of
general Gage's troops, attested by the secretary, to be delivered by Col.
Dwight to the governor and company of Connecticut as soon as may be.
Adjourned to three o'clock, P. M.
a ||o])«T(itioiis.|| I) ||inay.|| c ||ropipcl.||
1775] SECOND PROVINCIAL CONGRESS. 195
[Afleriiooii ]
The committee who were to l)ring in a resolve for the purpose
of removing an obstrnction to tlie liberating the inhabitants of Boston,
again reported : which report, being read and accepted, it was Order-
ed, that Mr. Partridge carry tlie same immediately to ||'Gen.|| Ward.
It is as follows, viz. :
Resolved, That the following letter be sent to Gen. Ward, and a
copy of the same to the selectmen of Boston.
Sir : — By the enclosed papers you will see, that the liberation 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, respecting permits into the country, and protection of all
persons thus permitted ; and also communicate your doing 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 mat-
ters in which they are to act, without any levity, or indecency of ex-
pression or behavior.
To the Hon. Artemas Ward, Esq. :
P. S. — The pass given by the selectmen must be in strict conform-
ity 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 resi-
dence.
On a petition from Charles Glidden and others, for a supply of pow-
der, &c. : Ordered, that Doct. 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 resolve recommend-
ing 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, ex-
pires on the 30th instant, and the exigencies of our public affairs ren-
der it absolutely necessary, for the safety of this colony, that a new
Congress be elected and convened, to consider of, and transact, the
public affairs thereof: Resolved, that it be, and it is hereby recom-
mended to the several towns and districts in this colony, that they each
196 SECOND PROVINCIAL CONGRESS. [May 5,
of them do, forthwith, elect and depute as many members as to them
shall seem necessary and expedient, to represent them in a Provincial
Congress, to be held at the meeting-house in Watertovvn, on the 31st
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 contin-
ued by adjournment, \\^\\ as they shall see cause, until the expiration
of six months from their being first convened on the 31st 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 pos-
terity.
Ordered, That this last mentioned resolve, together with the resolve
passed in the forenoon, respecting general Gage's precepts, be printed
in hand bills ; and that Major Fuller, Capt. Batchelder and Esquire
Dix, be a committee to get the same printed, and dispersed to the sev-
eral 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 Connecticut assembly, which they laid before this Con-
gress. ^
Resolved, That the vote which passed in Congress this day, respect-
ing a petition made by Charles Glidden and others, for powder and
ball, be reconsidered, and that the committee of supplies be, and here-
by are |lMirected,|l to furnish the said Charles l|Glidden,l| for the use
of the subscribers to said petition, one half barrel of powder, and such
a quantity of lead as will be proper and proportional thereto.
Resolved, That the assembly of Connecticut be supplied with the
rules and regulations which have been recommended to be observed
by the army now raising in this colony.
a ||from iluy to <l;iy.|| b ||(lc.sir('(i.||
(1) Governor .Toiiiitlian Trumbull replies to tlie letter of tlio Provincial Con<;ress, from Hartford,
May 4, 1775, in behiilf of the colony of Connecticut :
" Your letter of the second of May instant," he writes, "is received. You need not fear our
firmness, delilicration and unanimity, to ])ursue the measures which appear best for our common de-
fence and saf<'ty, and in no degree to relax our vigilant pre|)arations for that end, and to act in union
and concert with our sister colonies. We shall be cautious of trusting promises which it may be
in the power of any one to eviide. We hope no ill consequences will attend our embassy to gene-
ral Gage. We should be glad to be furnished with the evidence, duly authenticated, concerning
the attack, on the lOlli of April last, at Lexington, which it is presumed you have taken. Although
we are at a distance from the most distressing scenes before your eyes, yet we are most sensibly
affected with the alarming relations of them."
The letter from the speaker stated, that preparations were made for raising an army of fifteen
hundred men, in the colony of Connecticut.
l-o] SECOND PROVINCIAL CONGRESS. V.)7
Oil a motion made by Capt. McC'ohl), that some measures might he ta-
ken to preserve a niiiiiher of larire masts, plank, &i,c., now lyinj:; inKenne-
heck river, and to prevent tlicir heing carried to Halifax, wliere they
miorht he ||*appropriated|| to the injury of this country : Ordered, that
the consideration thereof he referred to the committee of safety, and
that Capt. McCohh be desired 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 he taken up immediately, was
read : whereupon. Ordered, that the consideration of this matter he
referred to Tuesday next, at three o'clock, P. M.
||Then|| adjourned till to-morrow morning, nine o'clock.
[Saturday,] May 6, 1775, A. M.
Resolved, That the committee of ||''supplies|| be, and they are here-
by empowered, to procure powder, in such quantities as they shall
think necessary, not only at Connecticut and Rhode Island, but at
New York, or any other colony on the continent.
Ordered, That Mr. Sawyer, Capt. Stone and Doct. Taylor, be a
committee to bring in a resolve for the purpose of appointing two offi-
cers, 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, Col. Dexter, Col. Warren, Doct. Hol-
ten and Mr. Mills, be a committee to take ||'under|| 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 Col. 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 tempore.
May 1775.
Resolved, That the general officer of the army of this colony be,
and hereby is directed to give orders to his officers, to pay obedience
to all permits of the foregoing form, signed by the president of this
Congress.
a ||u9ed.|| b ||9afety.|| c ||into.||
198 SECOND PROVINCIAL CONGRESS. [May 6,
Resolved, That Col. Dwight proceed with the letters and depositions
as ordered by this Congress, with all possible speed, to Hartford, there
to tarry, if at his discretion he thinks necessary, till he receives an an-
swer 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, Col. Thurston, Doct.
Taylor, Col. Field, Doct. Sawyer and Col. Warren, be a committee, to
bring in a resolve 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
reconsidered : whereupon. Ordered, that Mr. Rawson of Mendon, Col.
Gardner, Mr. Thurston, Esquire Davis and Mr. Sawyer, be a commit-
tee to take into consideration an equal representation of this colony,
and report thereon.
Ordered, That Col. 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 committee of
supplies to import military stores from such place, and in such 11*11
quantities as they shall judge proper : 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 risque 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 defence of the colony, and the same to risk, at their
discretion, with or without making insurance on the vessels and car-
goes which may be so ||employed,|| 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
n llmanncr and. 11
1775.] SECOND PROVINCIAL CONGREISS. 199
it' any iiictliod can he taken tor setllinir the appointment of tin; luld
officers.
||TliPii|| adjourned to tlnee o'clock, P. M.
[Aflcinooii j
Tlie order ol" the day [was] read.
Ordered, That Mr. Dix, Mr. Gill and Doct. Sawyer, be a connnittee
to sort and count the votes for two muster masters.
|I"The committee appointed to sort and count the votes for two mus-
ter masters, II reported, that Gen. John Wliitcomb and Col. Benjamin
Lincoln, were unanimously chosen.
The report of the committee respecting the appointment of muster
masters was accepted, and is as follows, viz. :
Resolved, That Gen. John Whitcomb and Col. Benjamin ||LincoIn,||
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 to 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 successor in office, twenty
shillings, lawful money, for each and every noa 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 monies drawn out of the treas-
ury ; and shall forthwith pay out said sum of twenty shillings, as ad-
vance 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 cancelled.
Resolved, That the consideration of the pay of the muster masters
be referred to some future time.
Ordered, That Col. 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 encouragement 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 Rawson, Mr. Partridge, Major Brooks, Mr.
Webster, Col. Mosely, Mr. Bliss and Capt. Stone ||of Oakham, || 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
200 SECOND PROVINCIAL CONGRESS [May 7,
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 es-
tablishment 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 esfablisJimcnt for the company of the train, as fixed upon
by the committee of safety :
1 captain, .... £G 10s per month.
^ lieutenants, each, . . , . 4 10 "
1 lieutenant fire worker, . . . 3 10 "
4 Serjeants, each, . . . . 2 10 "
4 corporals, each, . . . 2 6"
32 matrosses, each, . . . .23 "
1 drummer, . . . . 2 6"
1 fifer, . . . . .26"
46 men, officers included, in each company of matrosses ; a blanket
and coat, as for the rest of the army.
William Cooper, Secretary.
||The Congress then|l adjourned to to-morrow morning, eight o'clock.
Sunday, May 7, 1775, A. M.
Resolved, That the committee of supplies be, and they are hereby
empowered and directed, to procure at Connecticut, 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, report-
ed verbally, that they had not procured any.
On an application made to this Congress, by Capt. Benjamin Dun-
ning, of Ilarpswell, for powder, this Congress passed the following re-
solve, viz. :
Whereas, the district of Harpswell, 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. Hand
it is hereby accordingly recommended, || to the selectmen of the town
of Haverhill, that they deliver to Capt Nehemiah Curtis and Mr. Ben-
jamin Dunning, for the use of the said district of Harpswell, one half
1775] SECOND PROVINCIAL CONGRESS. '201
barrol of powder, they payiiij^ tor tlie same : which sliall he replaced,
if needed, as soon as tlie colony inaira/.ine can be supplied.
Adjourned to twelve o'clock tliis day.
[Noon]
Met at twelve o'clock, and adjourned to four o'clock, P. M.
[Af'lcrnoon.]
Met at four o'clock, and adjourned to to-morrow morning, nine
o'clock.
Monday, May 8, 1775, A, M.
Ordered, That Mr. Lothrop, Mr. Partridge, Mr. Mills, Mr. Whiting,
Capt. Stone, Col. Howe, Col. Mandell, Col. Mosely, Col. ||*Pierce|l
and Col. Thurston, be a committee to transcribe the narrative of the
proceedings of the king's troops, on the 19th ult., together with depo-
sitions thereof accompanying, to be transmitted to Mr. Thomas for
immediate publication.
A letter from a number of the inhabitants of the town of Hopkin-
ton, was read : whereupon. Ordered, that Doct. Church, Col. Foster
and Deacon Rawson, be a committee to prepare an answer to the se-
lectmen of that town, giving the opinion of the Congress on the sub-
ject thereof.
The form of an oath, to be administered to the officers and private
soldiers of the army now raising ||''in|| this colony, was read and ac-
cepted, and is as follows, viz. :
Resolved, That all officers and soldiers of the Massachusetts 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 Massachusetts
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 opposition to ministerial tyranny, by which they are or
may be oppressed, and to all other enemies and opposers whatsoever;
that I will adhe'^e to the rules and regulations of said army ; observe
and obey the generals and other officers 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 Col. Warren, Col. Gerrish and Col. Foster, be a
a ||Prince.|| b ||for the defence of.||
26
202 SECOND PROVINCIAL CONGRESS. [May 8,
committee to prepare the form of an oath to be administered to the
general officers.
Ordered, That Col. Warren, Esquire Dix and Col. Foster, be a
committee to draw up a resolve, recommending to the committees of
correspondence of the several towns and districts in this colony, and
to the selectmen of towns and districts who have no such committees,
to take effectual care to l|"disarm|| 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 officers and private soldiers
of the army now raising in this colony, agreeably to the form pre-
scribed by this Congress.
The committee who were appointed to prepare a letter to the select-
men 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 favor of the 7th instant was duly considered
in Congress. We cannot but regret that any persons, who have here-
tofore 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 refuse to
contribute of their wealth, or assist, personally, in that struggle, which
they are conscientiously led to approve. Nevertheless, gentlemen,
such is the peculiar delicacy of our situation, that true policy suggests
we should act with extreme caution respecting these fugitives. A vio-
lation of the natural right of an individual to remove his person and
effects wherever he pleases, ||we apprehendjl would ill become those
who are contending for the unalienable right of every man to his own
property, and to dispose of it as he pleases. We wouK^ likewise sug-
gest, that, should we restrain any inhabitant from conveying his goods
to Philadelphia, our brethren there might justly arraign us of selfish-
ness in such a transaction, 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
a ||Jiscovci-.||
1775] SECOND PROVINCIAL CONGRESS. 203
the tinnest confederacy. We are |lthoroughly|| aware of the mischiefs
too general a removal iniglit j)ro(liice ; but we have .so much confi-
dence in the disinterested virtue of our countrymen, as to indulge
hopes that Mr. Barrett's example will not become infectious. We
highlv approve the steady patriotism and manly jealousy of our breth-
ren in Hopkinton, and are, with much esteem,
Gentlemen, yours, &.c.
Ordered, That the president pro tempore, Doct. Church, Doct. Tay-
lor, Doct. Holten and Doct. 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 commanding offi-
cers of the several regiments, be appointed as surgeons to their respec-
tive regiments, provided they appear to be duly qualified upon examin-
ation.
A letter from the committee of correspondence, in Portsmouth, was
received by a messenger, express. The messenger was admitted on
the floor. 1
Ordered, That said letter be committed, for an answer, to Doct.
Church, the president and Capt. Foster.
A letter from Gen. Ward was read ; whereupon,
Ordered, That Col. Danielson, Doct. Church, Col. Foster, Mr.
Bliss and Mr. Rawson, be a committee to take the subject thereof into
consideration, and report.
Leave of absence was H'givenll to Mr. Partridge,
The committee on the letter from Portsmouth, in New Hampshire,
reported the following answer, which was read and accepted, and or-
dered to be copied and sent :
a llgranted.ll
(1) The letter was addressed to the president of Congress, and is as follows :
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 explore.
But, from the past conduct of Mr. Parry, 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 the Congress will exert their influence to procure the immediate release of that gen-
tleman, and wish that humanity and candor may distinguish all our noble struggles in the cause of
liberty.
By order of the committee.
I am your most obedient servant,
WILLIAM WHIPPLE.
204 SECOND PROVINCIAL CONGRESS. [May 8,
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 se-
verity, 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 out-
rage has been offered to innocent persons, the perpetrators, you may
be assured, will be properly censured, and the sufferers 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 characteristic
of Americans ; and [we] cannot but applaud those generous and be-
nevolent sentiments, which influenced you in your application.
We are, &c.
The committee who were appointed to prepare the form of an oath,
to be taken by the general officers, reported : the consideration where-
of was referred to some future time.
Ordered, That Col. Mosely and Major Bliss be, and are hereby em-
powered and directed, to collect all the province arms which are in
the county of Hampshire; and that Doct. William Whiting be em-
powered 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 Capt. Trueman Wheeler, of Great Barrington, be
desired to assist Doct. Whiting in collecting the province arms which
are in the county of Berkshire.
Mr. Sawyer informed the Congress, that Gen. [John] Whitcomb,
on account of his various avocations, could not acccept of the office
of muster master to which he had been 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 committee to sort and count the votes.
On a motion made. Resolved, that this last resolve be reconsider-
ed, and that to-morrow morning, eleven o'clock, be assigned for the
choice of a muster master, in the room of Gen. [John] Whitcomb, who
declines that trust.
Ordered, That Major Bliss, Deacon Whitney and Col. 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
1775.] SECOND PROVINCIAL CONGRESS. 205
they can notify, tliat a matter of tlie (rroatest importance is to be taken
into consideration, at three o'clock, to-morrow aiternoon, and to direct
their attendance at that time.
The committee wlio were appointed to bring in a resolve recom-
niendintr the disarminir 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 tliis colony, who have,
by their conduct, discovered themselves to be enemies to the rights of
mankind, and the interest of America ; and whereas, our very peculiar
situation renders it absolutely necessary, not only to discriminate
them from those who have shewn a disposition to be friendly to their
country, but ||°likewise|| to put it out of their power to join with the
open and avowed enemies of America, in their endeavors to ||injure,
and|| subjugate their countrymen to the full operations of the tyranni-
cal system of the British administration, and the ruin and destruction
concerted by the British parliament against the secolonies : therefore,
Resolved, That it be, and hereby is recommended, to the several
committees of correspondence, in the several towns and districts
where such committees ||''have been appointed, || 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 am-
ple assurances, in which they can with safety confide, of their readi-
ness 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 hereby 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 retri-
ments, agreeably to the resolves of Congress.
Ordered, That Major Fuller, Doct. Taylor and Mr. Webster, be a
committee to get the resolve last mentioned printed, and dispersed
through the several towns and districts in this colony.
Ordered, That the committee who were appointed to take into con-
sideration the subject matter of the letter from Gen. Ward, now send a
written message, by the messenger in waiting, to the general, inform-
a ||hIso.|| b llreside.y
206 SECOND PROVINCIAL CONGRESS. [May 8,
ing 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 committee, in the room
of Mr. Bliss, who is going to Cambridge on other business of the Con-
gress.
Ordered, That Mr. Lothrop, Doct. Taylor and Mr. Webster, be a
committee to bring in a resolve, recommending to the inhabitants of
this province to save their straw.
Ordered, That Col. Mosely, Esquire Davis, Col. Walker, Deacon
Hovey, Mr. Lewis, Capt. McCobb and Major Smith, be a committee
to confer with the committee of safety, with respect to settling the ap-
pointment of field officers, and to sit forthwith.
Mr. Gerry, by leave of Congress, brought in a resolve, empowering
the committee of supplies to furnish commissaries Ijwith necessaries||
for the army, &/C., which was recommitted.
The committee appointed to consider the letter from Gen. Ward,
reported an answer thereto, which was amended and accepted, and is
as follows :
Sir : — This Congress received your letter of this day, and the com-
plaint enclosed, informing that several persons, falsely pretending to
have your order to search for fire-arms, have committed robbery on
private property ; we have taken the matter |l''into|| consideration, and
are of opinion that such criminals ought to meet with condign punish-
ment. The persons suspected to be the offenders are one Saunders,
Samuel Mallows, Jacob Whittemore, Edward Bugby and Ebenezer
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, and cause them to be carried before the
committee of safety, who are hereby empowered and directed to exam-
ine 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 here-
by 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 appointment of field officers, be in-
structed to inquire into the state of the army at Cambridge and Rox-
bury, and if they find the numbers Ijthereof || reduced, as is reported to
a Ijeeriously lnto.|{
1775.] SECOND PROVINCIAL CONGRESS. 207
this Congress, that they advise the committee of safety to send out
immediately for reeiilorceiiients.
Jif:io/rr(I, Tiiat the consideration of the expediency of assuming
government, wliich was to have been entered upon to-morrow after-
noon, be postponed to Friday next, at three o'clock, P. M., and that
the committee wlio were just now appointed to confer with the com-
mittee of safety, be directed to give notice liereof to the several mem-
bers of tliis Congress who are now at Caml)ridge and Roxbury.
||Then|| adjourned to nine o'clock to-morrow morning.
[Tuesday,] May 9, 1775, A. M.
Resolved, That the receiver general be, and he is hereby directed,
to give public 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 Col. 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 consid-
eration 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 follows, 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 ; tlierefore,
Resolved, That the committee of supplies be, and they hereby are
directed and empowered, to purchase and supply the commissary, for
the time being, with such goods, wares and merchandize as they shall,
at any time, judge necessary for supplying the colony forces, and to
draw on the public treasury therefor. And the commissary aforesaid,
as also his deputies, who shall be accountable to him, are hereby di-
rected and empowered to supply, at the first cost, the soldiers who
shall belong to the regiments in which they shall be stationed, with
such articles as their respective captains shall, at any time, order ; and
to keep and render to the captains aforesaid, true and exact accounts
thereof, any time before the making up of the muster rolls. And the
said captains are hereby directed to give orders for such articles only
as they judge ||requisite and|| necessary for their respective soldiers,
a [troops.]
208 SECOND PROVINCIAL CONGRESS. [May 9,
not exceeding one half of the wages that shall, at any time, be due to
them, and to cause the same to be deducted from their wages, on
making up the muster rolls.
Ordered, That Doct. Church, the president. Col. Dexter, Col. War-
ren and Mr. Gerry, be a committee to prepare a spirited application to
general Gage, respecting 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 ne-
cessary for them to carry into the field.
Ordered, That Col. Barrett, Doct. Holten and Col. Danielson, be a
committee to take into consideration 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 Col. Farley, Doct. Holten and Col. Danielson, 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 Col. John Whitcomb, who declined accepting
that trust, reported, that Col. 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. Af-
ter 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 Fri-
day next, three o'clock, P. M., for the consideration of the expediency
of assuming government, [be reconsidered,] and that an earlier day be
assigned for that purpo.se. The question was put, and it passed in the
negative.
Ordered, That Mr. Pickering be added to the committee appointed
to take into consideration an equal representation of this colony, in
the room of Mr. Rawson, absent.
Ordered, That Mr. Sawyer, Col. Foster and Mr. Dix, be a commit-
tee to take into consideration the expediency of establishing post offi-
ces and riders in this colony.
The committee who were appointed to prepare a remonstrance to
general Gage, reported. The report was ordered to lie on the table
till the further orders of this Congress.
The same committee, agreeably to their appointment, reported a re-
solve, relative to furnishing those enlisted soldiers with fire arms who
1775] SECOND PROVINCIAL CONGRESS. 209
are imeqiiipl tlierewith ; which, after debate, was ordered to be recom-
mitted.
Ordrrrd, That Capt. Stone ||of Framingham,|| be added to the com-
mittee who were appointed to consider of some measures to be taken
with respect to the county records, in the room of Mr. Brown, of Ab-
ington, now absent.
The committee appointed to consider the expediency of establishing
post offices and riders, in this colony, reported : whereupon, \\*Or(lfr-
ed,\\ that tlie further consideration tliereof be referred to 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, 1775, on his majesty's
troops, by a number of the people of the province of the Massachu-
setts Bay, has been read in this Congress, which contains, among
many falsehoods, the following paragraph, viz. :
" When Capt. Parsons returned with the three companies over the
bridge, at Concord, they observed three soldiers on the ground, one of
them scalped, his head much mangled, and his ears cut off, though not
quite dead."
Resolved, That Col. Barrett be, and hereby is directed, to make
strict inquiry of the persons who saw the three soldiers aforemention-
ed 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 as-
sertion may be ascertained.
The committee appointed to consider of some method for furnishing
those soldiers with fire arms, who are not therewith equipt, again re-
ported ; the report was read ||and accepted, || 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, bayonets, and other accou-
trements ;
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 afore-
said, 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 inhabi-
a ||regalved.||
27
210 SECOND PROVINCIAL CONGRESS. [May 10,
tants 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 sol-
dier, so supplied, shall pay for the use of such arms and accoutrements,
out of his wages, the sum of six shillings : and if he does not return
the said arms and accoutrements, 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 ap-
ply to for arms or accoutrements, that they supply the colony with the
same. And, as many arms in this colony which are now useless may,
by small repairs, be rendered fit for service. Resolved, that a sufficient
number of armourers, not exceeding twenty, be appointed by the com-
mittee of safety, 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 published and dispersed.
Adjourned till to-morrow morning, nine o'clock.
Wednesday, May 10, 1775, A. M.
Ordered, That the committee appointed to confer with the commit-
tee of safety, upon the general state of the army, be directed particu-
larly 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 already enlisted in the ser-
vice of this colony, and that they give immediate orders to all the en-
listed soldiers, and all others now in the camp at Cambridge and Rox-
bury, that they do not depart till the further orders of this Congress.
A petition from the committees of correspondence, and the commit-
tees of inspection, for the town of Pownalborough, was preferred by
Joseph Tinkham :
Ordered, That this petition lie on the table.
Ordered, That the resolve passed by this Congress the 23d ulti-
mo, recommending to the selectmen of the several towns in this colo-
1775] SECOND PROVINCIAL CONGRESS. 211
nv, to furnish each non commissioned officer and ||"soldipr|| with a
blanket, he fairly copied by the secretary, and printed in a hand hill,
and sent to the selectmen of the several towns am! .i.-i'l< t- u, tlif ,-o)-
ony.
Ordrrrfl, That the petition from Pownalborough, just now read, he
delivered to Mr. Joseph Tinkham, agreeable to his request.
Ordered, Tliat Mr. Lothrop, Doct. Taylor and Doct. 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, recommending to
the inhabitants of this colony to save their straw, reported ; which re-
port was read and accepted, and ordered to be copied, and sent to the
printer of the Cambridge newspaper, and to the printer of the Wor-
cester newspaper, for publication. ||''It|l 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 abovesaid, they take immediate care the
same be preserved for the purpose above mentioned.
Ordered, That Capt. 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 gene-
ral Gage, the 19th ultimo, and that they transmit them to Mr. Hall, at
Cambridge, to be published in a pamphlet, and that said committee
agree with him for the expense of publication.
Ordered, That Col. Barrett attend the business to which he was yes-
day 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 instant.
The committee appointed to consider some measures for securing
thi 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 their several counties where they are exposed.
The order of the day was moved for.
a ||privat» aoldier.|| b ||and.{{
212 SECOND PROVINCIAL CONGRESS. [May 10,
The committee appointed to consider on the expediency of estab-
lishing post offices, &c., reported ; the report was recommitted, for
the purpose of settling the rates of postage, and taking into conside-
ration some method of establishing post offices. Mr. Hall, of Med-
ford, and Mr. Cross, were added to the committee ; also Mr. Batchel-
der, in the room of Mr. Dix.
Resolved, That the resolve for accepting the establishment for the
train, which passed this Congress the 6th instant, be reconsidered, and
that Col. Mandell, Capt. Baker, Doct. Taylor, Major Perley and Col.
Coffin, be a committee to take into consideration the propriety of es-
tablishing a regiment of the train, and that they sit forthwith.
Ordered, That Col. Warren, Mr. Geiry and Col. Foster, be a com-
mittee to take into consideration a resolve of the committee of safety,
recommending to this Congress to establish a court of inquiry.
Ordered, That Col. Richard Gridley be, and hereby is directed,
forthwith to recommend to the committee of safety, for officers of the
train of artillery, such persons as he thinks are qualified for that ap-
pointment.
On a complaint of the selectmen of the town of Worcester, against
Samuel Paine and William Campbell, prisoners from that town. Or-
dered, that said prisoners be committed to the care of Capt. Brown, or
such persons as he shall appoint, to be kept in custody till the fuither
orders of this Congress.
Ordered, That the committee appointed to transcribe the deposi-
tions of the late proceedings of the king's troops, be directed to pre-
pare a narrative thereof, as an introduction to the said depositions,
which are ordered to be printed.
Adjourned to three o'clock, P. M.
[Afternoon.]
Ordered, That Mr. Gill, Col. Warren, Col. Gerrish, Mr. Dix and
Doct. Perkins, be a committee to inquire into the complaint made by
the selectmen of the town of Worcester, against Samuel Paine and
William Campbell, and report to this Congress.
The consideration of the remonstrance to general Gage was re-
sumed : and [the same was] accepted, and ordered to be authenticati^d,
and sent forward. It is as follows, viz. :
To His Excellency Gen. Gage:
Sir : — This Congress have received frequent intelligence, that their
brethren, the inhabitants of the town of Boston, have to contend, in
their removal therefrom, with numerous delays and embarrassments,
1775] SECOND PROVINCIAL CONGRESS. '213
contrary to the sti|)iilatioii proposed and a£jreed to between your ex "el-
lency and the selectmen of that town.
We think it our duty to remonstrate to your e.xcellcncy, tliat, from
the papers communicated to us by the said selectmen, it appeared, that
the inhabitants were promised, upon surrendering their arms, that they
shouki 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 insinua-
tion, that you intended to deceive and disarm 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 ||"suggest|| sufficient reasons, to deter a gentle-
man of your rank and station from so injurious a design. But your
excellency must be sensible, that a delay of justice is a denial of it,
and extremely oppressive to the people 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 endeavored to evidence a disposition to
act upon the principles of humanity and good faith, and still indulge
hopes, that the confidence of the inhabitants of Boston, in your excel-
lency's honor and faithfulness, is not misplaced; and that, notwith-
standing any disagreeable occurrences, naturally resulting from the
confused state of the colony, which this Congress have discounte-
nanced, and endeavored to rectify, your excellency will no longer suf-
fer your treaty with a distressed people, who ought by no means to be
affected 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 accepted ; the consideration
of the residue was referred to a future time.
Resolved, That the resolve which this Congress passed 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
a {|b«.||
214 SECOND PROVINCIAL CONGRESS. [May 10,
colony, to enter immediately on constant discipline, and be in readi-
ness to enter the service of the colony ; and that said committee be,
and they are hereby empowered, to draw on the public treasury, for
said companies, a suitable consideration for their services.
The petition of Timothy Langdon^ was read, and ordered 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 re-
solves as have passed the Congress in any ways relative to the duty en-
joined them.
The secretary pro tempore represented to the Congress, that the
multiplicity of the business of his office was such, as made it necessa-
ry that he should have some assistance ; whereupon. Ordered, that
Capt. 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 se-
lectmen of the town of Worcester, against Samuel Paine and William
Campbell, reported ; which report was accepted, and ordered to be
transcribed, and delivered to Capt. Jonas Hubbard and Mr. Edward
Crafts, who exhibited the above complaint, together with a printed re-
solve of Congress, lately passed, for disarming the disaffected inhabit-
ants of the colony. The report is as follows, viz. :
The committee appointed to hear the complaints, exhibited by the
selectmen of Worcester, against William Campbell and Samuel Paine,
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 Paine has, in one
instance, propagated reports with regard to our Massachusetts soldiers'
rifling the house of Mr. Bradish, instead of the regular troops, and
that those which were quartered in the colleges were lousy, and desert-
(1) This petition represented, that the committee of safety, formed from ten towns in the coun-
ty of Lincoln, after consultation, came to the determination, that the king's masts, in the dock yard
at Georgetown, should not bo removed or fitted for use, and received assurances from Edward Paf-
ry, Esq., who had procured the timber, that it should remain : that when the result of the delibe-
rations of the committee were known, Col. Samuel Thompson of Brunswick, with twenty armed
men, seized Mr. Parry, and compelled him to give bonds, with the penalty of £2000, to abide in the
town until the pleasure of Congress could be known, and exacted money for the refreshment of the
captors : and prayed that the bonds might be cancelled, and Mr. Parry discharged from false impris-
onment.
1775] SECOND PROVINCIAL CONGRESS. air,
ed in great numbers; which, however indiscreet, does not appear to us to
be done with any had (k^sicrii, anil that he onglit to he dismissed imme-
diately ; and that tlie said Campl)ell may be returned to the town of
Worcester, to he dealt with, hy the committee of correspondence of
that town, agreeably to a resolve of this Congress, passed the Sth in-
stant. The matter, however, we think not important enough to be
brought before this Congress.
The consideration of the petition of Timothy Langdon was again
resumed, and ordered to lie on the table.
Ordered, That Capt. McCobb, Mr. Lewis and Doct. Perkins, be a
committee to take under consideration the several applications made
to this Congress, from the eastern parts of the province, for arms and
ammunition.
Adjourned till to-morrow morning, eight o'clock.
Thursday, May 11, 1775, A. M.
The petition of James Cargill, of Newcastle, committed to the com-
mittee who were appointed to consider the |lseveral|| applications to
this Congress for ammunition, &-c.
The committee appointed to take into consideration the several ap-
plications to this Congress for a supply of ammunition, &c., reported :
the report was recommitted, and the committee directed to inspect the
list of returns of the town's stock of powder, &c., that it may be
known whether 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.]
The Congress met at twelve o'clock, H'^accordingH to adjournment.
The committee appointed to consider the several applications made
to this Congress for ammunition, and to inspect the list of returns, &,c.,
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 sea port places, and much exposed to the rage
of our enemies, and not having a sufficient quantity of gunpowder to
defend themselves in case of any long attack ; and the town of Ando-
ver being well stocked with gunpowder, and not so much exposed ;
Therefore, Resolved, and it is hereby recommended to the selectmen of
the town of Andover, that they deliver to Mr. Joseph McLellan, of Fal-
mouth, two half barrels of gunpowder, for the use of the town of Fal-
a ||iigreeably.||
216 SECOND PROVINCIAL CONGRESS. [May 11,
mouth, in the county of Cumberland ; also to deliver to Mr. Zebulon
1 rickey, of Cape Elizabeth, one half barrel of gunpowder, for the
use of Cape Elizabeth ; also to deliver to Mr. John Hovey, of Arundel,
two half barrels of gunpowder, for the use of said Arundel, they pay-
ing 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 sea port places, in the eastern parts of this colony,
and much exposed to the rage and incursions of our unnatural ene-
mies, and not having a sufficient quantity of gunpowder to defend
themselves, in case of any attack ; and the towns of Marlborough,
Sudbury and Framingham, being well stocked with gunpowder, and
not so much exposed ;
Therefore, Resolved, and it is hereby recommended to the selectmen
of the above mentioned several towns, that they deliver 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 Lieut. John Farley, for the use of New-
castle : 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 mag-
azine can be supplied.
Ordered, That each person now in waiting, who has made applica-
tion 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 is sup-
posed, of frustrating a design 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, Col. Warren and Col. Lincoln, be a com-
mittee to prepare a letter to the committee 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 waiting to report to this Congress, said committee
laying before this Congress, as soon as may be, a copy of said letter. ^
Adjourned to four o'clock, P. M.
(1) Till' following' letter was sent to the committee of inspection of New York, subscribed by
Elbridge Gerry, Junios Warren and Benjamin Lincoln:
" GENTLEMEN :— We are directed by the Congress of this colony, who are just informed that
177r>.] SECOND PROVINCIAL CONGRESS. 217
[Afternoon. )
Met at four o'clock, according to adjournment.
Adjourned to eight o'clock to-morrow morning.
Friday, May 12, 1775, A. M.
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 necessa-
ries for tiieir march to head quarters. The question was put, and it
passed in the negative.
Ordered, That Capt. Stone, Col. Warren and Mr. Sullivan, be a
committee, to take into consideration an extract of a letter from the
Hon. Enoch Freeman, Esq., of Falmouth, to Samuel Freeman.'
two men of war, the Asi:i, and one other ship, with three or four companies of troops on hoard,
sailed yesterday from Boston for your place, to give you the earliest notice thereof. It is Ruppo^^cd
that thoy liavc orders to secure the ammunition and military stores in the fort of your city. Your
nohle exertions in the common cause, have given the Congress reason to think, that timely infor-
mation, relative to this matter, would be important to you. The post is now waiting, which pre-
vents us from indulging an inclinition for enlarging.
We are, respectfully, gentlemen, yours, ice."
(I) The extracts wliicli follow arc from a letter of Hon. Enoch Freeman, dated Falmouth, May
5, 1775, probably relating to the subjects presented for the consideration of Congress :
" We have lately heard that the Penobscot Indians are highly exasperated at Capt. Goldthwaite,
for suffering the tender to dismantle the fort there, and carrying off the powder : and truck trade is
stopped, as we are informed ; and that there were 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
dont hear. Perhaps it would be prudent for the Congress to send down there, and secure the Indi-
ans in our interest, by keeping the truck trade open, supplying them powder, or any other method
in their wisdom, upon mature consideration they may think best. A hint on this head is enough."
"The selectmen of this town have this moment agreed with one Jabez Matthews and one David
Dinsmore, of New Gloucester, to go over to Quebec, to make discovery whether ony 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 Vassalborough, to procure one or two to go with them, as hunters ;
and they are charged to he cautious not to let the Canadians have reason so much as to suspect
their business, and they will depend on your endeavoring to get the Congress to order them adequate
satisfaction out of the public 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 satisfiiction to this eastern country."
" I could write a good deal in favor of sending such an embassy, l)ut as my time is almost wholly
taken up on public matters, I have little time to spare."
References, in the journal, to original papers, too often lead to the repetition of the same sad
tale of loss and destruction. The letter of the Hon. Enoch Freeman, mentioned on page S220,
undoubtedly related to a transaction fully detailed in the following communication from Gen. Jede-
diah Preble, addressed to the president of the Provincial Congress.
FALMOUTH, May 14, 1775.
"HONORED SIR: — The committee of correspondence in this town, beg leave to inform you,
that some time past, we received advices from Georgetown, that Col. Thompson was fitting two ves-
sels there, with design to attempt the taking the king's ship Canceaux, stationed in this harbor,
commanded by Capt. Mowat, a gentleman, whose conduct since he has been here, has given no
grounds of suspicion he had any design to distress or injure us ; but, on the other hand, lie has af-
28
218 SECOND PROVINCIAL CONGRESS. [May 12,
Ordered, That Capt. Stone, Col. 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 person to preach a sermon
to the Congress, on the 31st May instant.
Resolved, That all persons who have the care of any prisoners de-
tained at Concord, Lexington, or elsewhere, be, and hereby are direct-
ed, 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 aiding and assisting him in examining, and taking depositions of
them, and others, without exception.
Ordered, That the establishment for a train of artillery be recom-
mitted.
Ordered, That Mr. Sullivan be added to the committee appointed for
revising the [commissions of the] committee of safety and committee
of supplies, in the room of Doct. Holten, absent.
forded his assistance to sundry vessels in distress. As we thought such an attempt had the appear-
ance of hxying a foundation for the destruction of tliis 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 Col. Tliompson, desiring him to desist from such an attempt, as it would
throw this town into the greatest confusion imaginahle ; we sent an express, and received his an-
swer that he had dropped the design of coming. But, on Monday night, [May 10,] he landed upwards
of sixty men, on the back side of a neck of land joining to the town, who came there in a number
of boats, and lay undiscovered till about the middle of the next day ; at which time, Capt. Mowat,
the doctor of the ship and parson VViswall, were taking a walk on said neck, when a detachment of
Col. Thompson's party rushed from their concealment, surrounded 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, Cai)t. Hog, who now commanded the ship, immediately clapped springs on his cables, she
lying within musket sliot of the town, and swore if the gentlemen were not released by six
o'clock, he would fire on the town. He fired two cannon, and, although there was no shot in them,
it frightened the women and children to such a degree, that some crawled under wharves, some ran
down cellar and some out of town. Such a shocking scene was never before presented to view
here. The gentlemen who were in custody, were conducted to a public house, where Capt. Mow-
at declared, if he was not released, it would be the destruction of the town. Every gentleman pres-
ent used hia utmost endeavors to accommodate the matter. Col. Thompson consented that a com-
mittee should be chosen, consisting of officers from his party and gentlemen from the town, to con-
sult in what manner the afTair could be accommodated ; but, as it was late, the committee chose
to defer the consideration of it till next morning. Capt, Mowat then requested he might go on
board his ship that night, and he would pawn his word and honor that he would return next morn-
ing, at what time and at what place should be appointed. Col. Thompson consented, provided Col.
Freeman and Brigadier Preble would pass their words that the several gentlemen should return ac-
cording to their promises, and also pawn their word and honor, if tlie gentlemen failed of coming,
that they would deliier themselves ui), and stand by the consequences, which was consented to.
Capt. Mowat not coming according to his promise, whicli was to have been at nine o'clock the next
morning, the sponsors appeared according to promise, and were confined. Capt. Mowat wrote to
them, and let them know he had fully determined to have complied with his promise, but he had
gent his man on shore, to carry some dirty linen to hia 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
•acred, the moment he come on shore he should have what was in his piece, and the other, that he
1775] SECOND PROVINCIAL CONGRESS. 219
Regoloed, 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 establishing post
offices and post ||'riders,|l reported. After some debate, the matter
thereof was ordered for the present to subside.
The order of the day was moved for.
The absent members were ordered to be called in.
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 necessi-
ty 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 president, on a mo-
tion made, ["Resumed] the chair. The committee then, by the Hon. Jo-
seph Warren, Esq., 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 committee be directed to ground the application on the
necessity of the case ;" which report being read, was accepted, by a
very large majority ; whereupon. Ordered, that the president, Doct.
Rhould never return on board again with his life : and that two more of his men made oath, they
heard several of the men under arms say, the moment he came on shore they would ha\-e his life ;
this was what he wrote to plead an excuse for not complying with his promise. Col. Thompson
told the two gentlemen under confinement, that he must have some provisions and refreshments 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 account to them for time and expense,
amounting to £158 18s. lawful money, and gave them till next morning, nine o'clock, to return an an-
swer, which they did in the negative ; he said he would have satisfaction before he left town. He
then seized all the goods he could find, belonging to Capt. Coulson and William Tyng, Esq : they
also carried off one boat belonging to Coulson, and one other to Capt. Mowat ; they also obliged
Capt. Pote to furnish them with some provisions, and a small matter of cash ; they also brought
one man on his knees, for speaking disrespectfully of the colonel and his men. Col. Thompson, we
doubt not, is a true friend to his country, and a man of courage and resolve ; but our town lies
BO much exposed to the navy that, had he succeeded in his attempt, which there was not the least
probabilily of, it must liave proved the de*truction of this town, and the country back, who are now
in the greatest distress for want of provisions. We have only related plain facts, that the honor-
able 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 humble servants.
JEDEDIAH PREBLE, Chair»an."
a {jruads |{ b [aMumsd.j
220 SECOND PROVINCIAL CONGRESS. [May 12,
Church, Mr. Gerry, Col. Warren, Mr. Sullivan, Col. Danielson and
Col. Lincoln, be a committee to prepare an application agreeably to
said report.
A letter from Col. duincy ||of Braintree,|| to the president, was
read ; whereupon. Resolved, that Gen. Ward be, and hereby is direct-
ed, to order four respectable officers to escort the president of this
Congress to Col. Quincy, at Braintree, to-morrow morning.
Ordered, That Major Fuller, Mr. Goodwin and Deacon 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 re-
spects private property only.
Ordered, That Mr. Sullivan, Doct. Taylor and Mr. Lewis, be a
committee to take into consideration a letter from the Hon. Enoch
Freeman, Esq., dated May 10, 1775, to his son, Mr. Samuel Freeman.^
Resolved, That the further consideration of the report of the com-
mittee who were appointed to bring in a resolve respecting the estab-
lishment of post offices and post riders, be resumed to-morrow morn-
ing, nine o'clock.
Resolved, That the establishment for a train of artillery, which has
been accepted by this Congress, be reconsidered, and that the follow-
ing report, for such an establishment, be accepted, viz. :
Resolved, That the following establishment be made for ten compa-
nies of matrosses :
Captain, ....... <^6 10s. 0 per month.
Captain Lieutenant, . . . . . 5 10 0
1st Lieutenant, 4 10 0
Two 2d Lieutenants, each . . . . 3 12 0
Serjeants, each . . . . . 2 10 0
Corporals, each . . . . . . 2 G 0
6 Bombardiers, each . . . . 2 4 6
6 Gunners, each 2 4 0
32 Matrosses, each 2 3 0
Adjourned till to-morrow morning, eight o'clock.
[Saturday,] May 13, 1775, A. M.
Met according to adjournment.
The petition of the selectmen of the town of Topsham, in the
county of Lincoln, respecting their being supplied with powder, [was]
read, and Ordered, that the same be committed to Capt. McCobb, Mr.
Lewis and Doct. Taylor.
(1) See the note to page 217 anU. Tlio letter iiionlioneil in the text is not on the (ilea of Congress.
nrr,.] second provincial congress. 221
The order of tlie (l:iy, respecting tlio furtlicr consideration of the
report of tlic committee appointed to bring in a resolve respecting tlie
establishing post oHices, Sec, was taken up, and the blanks for post
masters being filled up, ordered to subside till the report on the letter
from Hon. Enoch Freeman, Esq. was read.
The committee appointed to take into consideration a letter from
the Hon. Enoch Freeman, Esq., dated May 10, reported; and after a
long debate thereon, [the report] 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; [the]
time assigned for that purpose [was] voted to be three o'clock, P. M.
The order of the day was moved for, to choose a gentleman to
preach the sermon on the 31st May.
Moved, That a committee be chosen to count and sort the votes.
Col. Warren, Capt. Jennison, Major Bliss, were chosen.
The committee chosen to count and sort the votes, reported that the
Rev. Doct. Langdon was chosen.
Moved, That a committee of three persons be appointed, to wait on
the Rev. Doct. Langdon, and acquaint him that this Congress have
made choice of him to preach a sermon to the Congress of this colo-
ny on the 31st instant May, and desire his compliance therewith. Col.
Gerrish, Mr. Pitts and Doct. Sawyer, were chosen accordingly.
The committee appointed to prepare a resolve respecting the taking
a third set of the depositions relative to the battle of Lexington, re-
ported, and [the report] was accepted, and is as follow-s, viz. :
Resolved, That William Reed, William Stickney, Thadeus Mason,
Jonathan Hastings, Jonathan Cummings, Josiah Johnson, Duncan In-
graham, Jonas Dix and Simon Tufts, Esqs., 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 summoned, such inhabit-
ants of this colony as they shall think proper, to attend them, at any
time and place in this H'county,!! which they shall direct, for the pur-
poses mentioned ; and all such persons as shall be summoned by the
justices aforesaid, are hereby directed punctually to obey their sum-
mons.
Ordered, That Mr. Pitts, Mr. Gill and Mr. Sawyer, be a committee
to take into consideration a letter from Mr. John i'eck, respecting his
a ||country.||
222 SECOND PROVINCIAL CONGRESS. [May 13,
confinement, to the selectmen of Boston, and the said selectmen's let-
ter to this Congress on the same subject.
The committee reported their amendment of the report on the Hon.
Enoch Freeman's letter ; referred to the afternoon.
Adjourned to three o'clock, P. M.
[Afternoon ]
||The Congress met at three o'clock, P. M.l|
The report of the committee respecting the Hon. Enoch Freeman,
Esq.'s letter, [was] taken up, amended and [^accepted. ]i
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 sea port place, in the east-
ern part of the colony, and much exposed to the rage and excursions of
our unnatural enemies, and not having a sufficient quantity of gun-
powder to defend themselves, in case of an attack, and the town of
Wrentham being well stocked therewith;
Therefore, Resolved, and it is hereby recommended to the select-
men of the abovesaid town of Wrentham, to deliver 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.
ll'^The order of the day was called for ,|| and Capt. 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 committees' names, the resolve
was accepted, and is as follows, viz. :
Resolved, as the opinion of this Congress, that post riders be imme-
diately 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 Barn-
stable, and that post offices be kept as followeth, viz. : One at Cam-
bridge ; one at Salem ; one at Ipswich ; one at Haverhill ; one at New-
buryport; one at ||°Kennebunk|| or Welles ; one at Falmouth in the
county of Cumberland ; one at Georgetown, in the county of Lincoln;
one at Worcester ; one at Springfield ; one at Great Barrington ; one
a [accepted, and is ns follows :]
li WResnli'cd, 'I'luit tln^ order of the day, on the subject of post riders, he now taken np.||
c ||Kennebeck.||
(1) Tha report, unrurtuimtoly otnitteJ in the Journal, ia not preserved uii thu tilen
1775.] SECOND PROVINCIAL CONGRESS. 22;J
at Plymouth ; one at Siuidwich ; one at Falmouth, in the county of
Barnstable.
And it is further RiMtlnd, That Mr. James Winthrop be appointed
post master for the town of Cambridge ; Mr. Edward ||"Norri.s|| for
Salem; Mr. James Fc^ster for Ipswich; Mr. ||''Simon|| Greenough for
Haverhill; Mr. Bulkley Emerson for Newburyport ; Capt. Nathaniel
Kimball for Kennebunk ; Mr. Samuel Freeman for Falmouth, in
Cumberland ; Mr. John Wood for Georgetown ; Mr. Isaiah Thomas
for Worcester; Mr. Moses Church for Springfield; Doct. William
Whiting for Great Barrington ; Joseph Nye, 3d. for Sandwich ;
William Watson, Esq. for Plymouth ; and Mr. Moses Swift for Fal-
mouth, in Barnstable ; and that Capt. Jonathan Brown, Jonas Dix,
Esq. and David Cheever, Esq., 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 agree with them, and to agree like-
wise with the post masters for their service ; and that the rates of, and
duties for postage of letters, &c., be as follow, viz. : for any distance
not exceeding 60 miles, 5 1-4 pence ; upwards of 60 miles, and not
exceeding 100 miles, 8 pence ; upwards of 100 miles, and not exceed-
ing 200, 10 1-2 pence ; upwards of 200, and not exceeding 300, 1 shil-
ling 1 penny; upwards of 300, and not exceeding 400, 1 shilling 4
pence; upwards of 400, and not exceeding 500, 1 shilling 6 1-2 pence ;
upwards of 500, and not exceeding 600, 1 shilling 9 pence ; upwards
of 600, and not exceeding 700, 2 shillings ; upwards of 700, and not
exceeding 800, 2 shillings 2 1-2 pence ; upwards of 800, and not e.x-
ceeding 900, 2 shillings 5 pence ; upwards of 900, and not exceeding
1000, 2 shillings 8 pence. 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 post masters be accountable to the aforenamed
committee for what they shall receive; and that the foregoing rules
and orders continue, until the Continental Congress, or the congress,
or future house of representatives of this colony, shall make some fur-
ther order relative to the same.
The committee ||appointed|| to draw a resolve respecting a court of
inquiry, reported; and Ordered, that Monday, three o'clock in the af-
ternoon, be assigned for taking the same into consideration.
Adjourned till to-morrow morning, eight o'clock.
a IIMorris.ll b ||Siiiiaon.l|
324 SECOND PROVINCIAL CONGRESS. [May 15,
Sunday, May 14, 1775, [A. M.]
Met, and adjourned to twelve o'clock.
[Noon.]
At twelve o'clock met, and adjourned to three o'clock.
[Afternoon.]
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 enlisting orders to,
that this Congress may commission such as they think proper, without
delay.
Resolved, That the further consideration of this matter be referred
to to-morrow morning, nine o'clock.
[Monday,] May 15, 1775, A. M.
Ilesolved,T\\ni four o'clock in the afternoon of this day, be assigned
for making choice of two persons, members of this Congress, to attend
the Provincial Congress of New Hampshire, on Wednesday next.
The order of the day was moved for, and read.
Resolved, That David Cheever, Esq., 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 12th instant, for establishing post
offices and post riders ; and that Mr. William Greenleaf, Joseph Green-
leaf, Esq. and Mr. John Pitts, be added to the committee therein ap-
pointed.
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 Col.
Lee, deceased.
Ordered, That the committee appointed to prepare an application to
the Continental Congress, be directed to insert a clause therein, desir-
ing that the said congress would take some measures for directing and
regulating the American forces.
The committee appointed to prepare an introduction to the deposi-
tions [''relating to] the late affair at Lexington, reported ; the same
was recommitted, for the purpose of examining it, to find if the narra-
tive contained in the said introduction be supported by the depositions,
and to add such other depositions as may be procured.
Ordered, That Mr. Fisher, Col. Field and Mr. Bullen, be a commit-
tee to examine the letters of Governor Hutchinson, ^ lately discovered,
a [of.]
(1) The following nccount of the (li.soovcry of tlic letter books of Governor Hiitchirison, contain-
ing his corrcspondpnoo with the ministry, iind with private in<lividuals, is copied from Qordon's
Uistnrxj of the American Revolution, Vol. I., Page 356.
" When ho [Governor rintchitisoii,] quitted the province, all his furniture was left behind
at his seat in Milton. After the Lexington engagement, the comraittco of the town removed
1775] SECOND PROVINCIAL CONGRESS. 225
and report to tliis Congress such letters, and extracts, as they think it
will he proper to pul)lisli.
WOrdvrcil, That tlie committee appointed to revise [the commission
of] the committee of safety, sit forthwith. ||
Ordiri'd, That Col. Warren, Mr. Sawyer and Major Bliss, be a
committee to take into consideration the subject of a letter, read in
Congress, from William Watson, Esq. to Col. Warren and Mr. Lothrop.
Col. Barrett, who was appointed to take a deposition at Concord,
reported ; the deposition reported was ordered to be committed to the
committee who were appointed to prepare an introduction to the depo-
sitions.
The committee appointed to take into consideration extracts of a
letter from the Hon. Enoch Freeman, Esq., reported a letter to the
eastern tribes of indians, which was accepted, and ordered to be au-
thenticated, and sent to Mr. John Lane, to be communicated to them.
It is as follows, viz. :
Friends and good Brothers : — We, the delegates of the colony
of the Massachusetts Bay, being come together in congress, to con-
sider what may be best for you and ourselves to do, to get rid of the
slavery designed to be brought upon us, have thought it our duty to
write you the following letter.
Brothers : the great wickedness of such as should be our friends,
but are our enemies, we mean the ministry of Great Britain, has 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 fur to trade with us for what you want : but we hope soon
it, in order to save it from being totally ruined. Mr. Samuel Henshaw, desirous of seeing how the
house looked when stript of all the furniture, repaired thither with the gentleman who had the
key. He went, at length, up into a dark garret, where he discovered an old trunk, which, he was
told, was left behind, as it contained nothing but a parcel of useless papers. Curiosity led him to
examine them, when he soon discovered a letter book of Mr. Hutchinson's, which he secured, and
then posted away to Doct. Warren, to whom he related what had happened : on which, an order
was soon sent to Gen. Thomas, at Roxbury, to possess himself of the trunk. It was brought to his
quarters : and there, through the imprudent exultations of some about the general, the contents
were too often exposed to persons resorting thither,' and some single letters conveyed away ; one
[was suppressed] for the public good; it being thought, that if the same was generally known, it
might be of disservice in the present moment, as it had not a favorable aspect upon the staunch
patriotism of Mr. Hancock. The letter books, and other papers, were afterwards taken pioper
care of."
These interesting manuscripts were deposited, and are still retained, in the archives of the state.
29
326 SECOND PROVINCIAL CONGRESS. [May 15,
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 plain-
ly we want nothing but our own, and do not want to hurt them ; but
they will not hear us, and have sent over 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 driven 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 free men. Capt.
Goldthwait has given up Fort Pownall into the hands of our enemies ;
we are angry at it, and we hear you are angry with him, and we do
not 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 that none of your men, or the Indians in Canada,
will join with our enemies. You may have a great deal of ||good|| in-
fluence 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 Capt. John Lane to you, [to consult with you] for
that purpose, and he will show you his orders ibr raising one company
of your men to join with us in the war with your and our enemies.
Brothers : we beseech that God who lives above, and that 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 will 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.
The committee appointed to consider a letter from William Watson,
Esq., of Plymouth, reported the following 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 constitution and interest of the same,
1775] SECOND PROVINCIAL CONGRESS. 227
are now, after haviiiir titiited themselves with our enemies, in reducing
us to the distresses and difTiciilties we are laborinir under, taking steps
to remove tliemselves and eHecis out of this colony, into the govern-
ment of Nova Scotia, and elsewhere, in order to avoid their propor-
tion of 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 permis-
sion of the committee of correspondence of the town he belongs to ;
or if no such committee be there appointed, of the selectmen, or the
majority of them, under their hands, for that purpose, but by the leave
of this or some future congress ; and the several committees of cor-
respondence, or selectmen, where there are no such committees, are
hereby directed to be very vigilant in observing the motions of all
such persons who they may have reason to suspect, and to see that this
resolve be carried into full execution.
Then adjourned to three o'clock, P. M.
[Afternoon]
The committee appointed to consider the extracts of a letter from
the Hon. Enoch Freeman, Esq., reported a resolve respecting an em-
bassy to Canada, which being read and amended, was accepted, a copy
ordered 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 situation, that the most certain in-
telligence, from Canada, of the designs and manoeuvres of the inhab-
itants of that colony should be obtained as | Infrequently || 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 col-
ony, that the Canadians would soon attack them on their frontiers, and
thereby bring not only themselves, 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 be known without delay, have
employed Mr. Jabez Matthews and Mr. David Dinsmore, to go across
the woods to Quebec, in order to observe the motions of the people
there, and, as far as possible, to gain a knowledge of their intention ;
Therefore, Resolved, That this Congress do approve of the care and
attention of the selectmen of Falmouth, to the general interest of the
colony. And it is hereby recommended to the said selectmen, that
they transmit the intelligence they may receive by them, together with
the expenses of the said embassy, to this or some future congress of
a ||ipc«dily.||
228 SECOND PROVINCIAL CONGRESS. [May 15,
this colony, with all convenient speed, that the account of their ex-
penses may be adjusted and allowed out of the treasury of the colony.
The order of the day [was] moved for.
The report of the committee appointed to bring in a resolve for es-
tablishing a court of inquiry, was read; 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 instructions to Mr. John Lane,
who is appointed to communicate the letter to them, and enlist a com-
pany 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. Joseph Ger-
rish, Esq. and Col. Ebenezer Sawyer, were chosen.
Orc?e/Y'f/, That Col. Dexter, Col. Warren and Col. Foster, be a com-
mittee 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 prepare a
plate for ["printing] the same, without delay, and Resolved, that to-
morrow morning, ten o'clock, be assigned for the consideration of the
report of said committee 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 Col. Lee, deceased.
The committee last mentioned, reported, that Mr. John Pitts was
chosen.
Ordered, That Col. Barrett, Esquire Rawson and Mr. Webster, be
a committee to take into consideration a petition to this Congress,
from Mr. Boice and Mr. McLean, of Milton. i
Ordered, That Mr. Lothrop, Col. Warren and Mr. Jennison, 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.
a [engraving.]
(1) John Boico and Hugh McLean represented, that they were engaged in the business of manu-
facturing paper; tliat four apprentices, well skilled in the employment, had enlisted in the army j
that their services were necessary for the operation of the mills ; and prayed that these soldiers
might bo discharged from military service.
1775] SECOND PROVINCIAL CONGRESS. 229
[Tuesday,] Muy 10, 1775, A. M.
Ordered, That Doct. Taylor, Mr. Grccnleaf and Capt. Di.x, be a
committee to apply to tlie committee ol" safety, for a list of such per-
sons as they have given enlisting orders to ; and, in particular, [for] a
list of such as have completed, 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 per-
sons as they think proper, without delay.
The committee appointed to consider a petition of Messrs. Boice
and McLean, reported. A long debate was had thereon, and it was
finally determined, that the petitioners have leave to withdraw their pe-
tition.
Ordered, That Mr. Sullivan, Capt. Stone, Col. Farley, Major Brooks
and Doct. Rawson, be a committee to take into consideration a verbal
information of the capture of three vessels, by a king's cutter, at Dart-
mouth, 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 oflfice of receiver
general, Resolved, that the determination of this matter be referred to
to-morrow morning, ten o'clock; and if Mr. Gardner should then in-
sist 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 Continen-
tal Congress, reported the following, which was read paragraph by
paragraph, and accepted, viz. :
Resolved, That Doct. Church be ordered to go immediately to Phil-
adelphia, and deliver to the president of the honorable American
Congress, there now sitting, the following application, to be by him
communicated to the members thereof; and the said Church is also
directed to confer with the said congress, respecting such other mat-
ters as may be necessary to the defence of this colony, and particularly
[as to] the state of the army therein.
May it ple.\se your Honors : — That system of colony adminis-
tration which, in the most firm, dutiful and loyal manner, has been in
vain remonstrated against, by the representative body of the united
colonies, seems still, unless speedily and vigorously opposed, by the
collected wisdom and force of all America, to threaten ruin and de-
struction to this continent.
230 SECOND PROVINCIAL CONGRESS. [May 16,
For a long time past this colony has, by a corrupt administration in
Great Britain and here, been deprived of the exercise of those powers
of government, w^ithout which, a people can be neither rich, happy or
secure. The whole continent saw the blow impending, 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 slavery, 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, amongst the most
faithful assertors 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 funda-
mental principles of the English constitution ; and a formidable navy
and army, not only inimical to our safety, but flattered with the pros-
pect of enjoying the fruit of our industry, were stationed, for that pur-
pose, in our metropolis. The prospect of deciding the question, be-
tween our mother country and us, by the sword, gave us the greatest
pain and anxiety ; but, we have made all the preparation for our neces-
sary defence, that our confused state would admit of; and as the ques-
tion equally affected our sister colonies and us, we have declined,
though urged thereto by the most pressing necessity, to assume the
reins of civil government, without their advice and consent : but have,
hitherto, patiently borne the many difficulties and distressing embar-
rassments 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 America, 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 magistrate to support it, for
the people's necessary defence, we tremble at having an army, although
consisting of our own countrymen, established here, without a civil
power to provide for and control it.
We are happy in having an opportunity of laying our distressed state
before the representative body of the continent, and humbly hope you
will favor us with your most explicit advice, respecting the taking up
and exercising the powers of civil government, which we think abso-
lutely 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,
177r,.] SF.COND PROVINCIAL CONGRESS. '2iil
as shall not only most j)roiiiote our ;nlviiiit;i;.f(', ixit the union and inter-
est ot all America.
As the army, collectinir from ditlerent colonies, is for the general de-
fence of the rights of America, we would beg leave to suggest to your
consideration, the i)ropriety of your takitig the regulation and general
direction of it, that the operations may more effectually answer the pur-
poses designed.
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 Hon. Joseph Gerrish, Esq., and Col. Ebenezer Saw-
yer, who are by this Congress chosen a committee to wait on the dele-
gates 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, appear most con-
ducive to the union of the colonies, and the most direct way to induce
said Congress of New Hampshire, to raise their proportion of men to
defend the colonies. And it is also Resolved, That the said committee
be furnished with a copy of the application of this Congress to the hon-
orable members of the Continental Congress, which the said committee
is directed to deliver the president 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 congress 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 es-
tablishment for the Massachusetts army, and rules and regulations for
the same, and form of the oath for the otiicers and soldiers.
A letter from Col. Thomas Legate, dated Cambridge, May 16,
1775,1 ^y^^ read, and committed to Col. Foster, Mr. Parker, and Mr.
Bliss.
The Committee appointed to bring in a resolve for supplying the sol-
diers with two twenty shilling bills for a month's advance pay, again
reported.
The order of the day [was] moved for.
Ordered, That Col. Foster, Major Bliss, and Mr. Bent, be a com-
mittee to sort and count the votes for a member of this Congress, to go
to Philadelphia with the application of this Congress, to the Conti-
nental Congress.
M)Tliis roluled to the orgunizutioii of tlio train of arlillcry in the provincial army.
232 SECOND PROVINCIAL CONGRESS. [May 16,
The committee reported, that Doct. Benjamin Church was chosen.
The committee appointed to take under consideration the letter from
Col. Legate reported; which report being read and amended, was ac-
cepted, 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 em-
ployment, and it being impossible to enlist the men for the artillery at
large, in the colony, so soon as the service requires, therefore, Re-
solved, That the officers of the artillery be allowed to enlist the men
from the several regiments already engaged, 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 pre-
judice or hindrance to the officers with whom such men are already en-
listed, in entitling them to their respective commissions ; and that not
more than four men be taken from any one company : and the officers
of the train of artillery are directed to use their endeavor, to enlist as
many ||men,|| who are not under any previous engagement in the army,
as they can, speedily ; and the officers, from whose regiment or com-
pany any person is enlisted into the train of artillery, are also directed
to fill up their said regiment or companies with all convenient speed, by
enlisting other soldiers in the place of those enlisted into the train of
artillery.
Ordered, That Mr. Gerry, Mr. Pitts, Doct. Taylor, the President,
and Mr. Batchelder, be a committee to consider what measures it would
be expedient to take, relative to the prisoners in Boston, and the inhab-
itants which are there kept in duress.
The committee appointed to apply to the committee of safety for a
list of officers, &c., 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 regi-
ments were completed.
Ordered, That Col. Barrett, Doct. Taylor, and Mr. Fuller, be a com-
mittee to take into consideration a petition from the inhabitants of Ca-
naan and Norridgewock, on Kennebeck river, and report. i
The committee who were appointed to consider the information from
Dartmouth, reported ; the report was recommitted for further exami-
nation and inquiry into the affair.
Ordered, That Mr. Freeman and Doct. Holten be added to the com-
mittee appointed to examine Hutchinson's letters.
Adjourned till to-morrow morning, 9 o'clock.
(1) This petition, like most otliors from the eastern part of the province, appt'ars to have been for
Kupplic!* of arms, ammunition, and provisions.
1775] SECOND PROVINCIAL CONGRESS. 233
[Wednesday,] May 17, 1775, [A. M.]
A letter from [Edward] Mott to tliis Congress, dated May II, 1775,
giving an account of the taking of the I'ortress at Ticonderoga, was
read, together with a letter from Ethan Allen ; also an application from
Col. Easton, and others : whereupon, Ordered, That Col. Foster, Mr.
Sullivan, and Doct. Holten, he a committee to introduce Col. 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, Doct. Taylor, Col. Foster, Doct. Hol-
ten, and Mr. Cross, be a committee to take the same into consideration,
and repoit.
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 Gen. Ward.
The Congress appointed two other monitors, viz. : Mr. John Hale
and Capt. Woodbridge Brown.
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 Massachusetts 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 repeat, take,
and subscribe the following oath, to be administered by [blank] viz. :
I, A. B., do solemnly swear, that, as a general officer in the Massa-
chusetts army, I will well and faithfully execute the office of a general,
to which I have been appointed, according to my best abilities, in de-
fence and for the security 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 oppressed, 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 col-
ony of 11 the Massachusetts Bay, observe and obey the resolutions and
orders which are or shall be passed by said Congress, or any future
congress, or house of representatives, or legislative body of said colo-
ny, and such committees as shall be by them authorized for that pur-
pose ; and that I will disclose and make known to the authority afore-
said, all traitorous conspiracies, attempts and designs whatsoever,
(I) The paper? n litinj: to Ti'^ondoroga, will be found in the Appendix.
30
234 SECOND PROVINCIAL CONGRESS. [May 17,
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 rela-
tive to the destruction of private property, by the king's troops, on the
I9th instant, and their driving women in childbed 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 re-
lief of such of the inhabitants of Boston as come over to Charlestown,
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 or-
dered to be authenticated and sent forward :
Gentlemen : — We have the happiness of presenting our congratu-
lations to you, on the reduction of that important fortress, Ticondero-
ga ; we applaud the conduct, both of the officers and soldiers, and are
of opinion, that the advantageous 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, is, by this time, in
the hands of our friends, may be forwarded this way, with all possible
expedition, 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 cannon to fortify those impor-
tant passes, without which, we can neither annoy general Gage, if it
should become necessary, nor defend ourselves against him ; we, there-
fore, must, most earnestly, recommend this very important matter to
your immediate consideration ; and we would suggest it, as our opin-
ion, that the appointing Col. 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.
ITT.';.] SECOND PROVINCIAL CONGRESS. 235
This Congress, liaviiiir received authentic intelligence, that the fort
at Ticonderoga, is surrendered into the hands of Col. Ethan Allen
and others, together with the artillery, and artillery stores, ammunition,
&/C., thereunto belonging, for the benefit of these colonies, occasioned
by the intrepid valor of a number of men under the command of the
said Col. Allen, Col. Easton of the Massachu.setts, and others, and by
the advice and direction of the committee for that expedition, the said
Col. Allen is to remain in possession of the same, and its dependen-
cies, until further order :
Resolved, That this Congress do highly approve of the same, and
the general assembly of the colony of Connecticut are hereby desired
to give directions, relative to garrisoning and maintaining the same for
the future, until the advice of the Continental Congress can be had in
that behalf; and, as this colony is in want of some battering cannon
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, desiring that they would give orders for the
immediate removal of some of those cannon to this colony, for the
purpose aforesaid.
Adjourned to three o'clock, P. M.
[.\fternoon.]
The committee appointed to consider the petition from the inhabit-
ants of Canaan and Norridgewalk, reported; the question being put,
whether the report shall be accepted, and it passed in the negative;
thereupon, Resolved, that the petitioners have leave to withdraw their
petition.
Ordered, [That] Col. Foster, Mr. Sullivan and Capt. Farley, be a
committee to prepare a commission for Gen. Ward.
The committee appointed to consider of the verbal information 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 excused, and that Col. Foster and Deacon Fisher
be added to this committee.
236 SECOND PROVINCIAL CONGRESS. [May 18,
Resolved, That Doct. Church be allowed one servant to attend him
in his journey to Philadelphia.
Ordered, That the letters relative to taking the fortress of Ticonde-
roga, be delivered to the committee of safety.
Ordered, That the committee appointed to prepare an establishment
for post offices, &c., be directed to bring in a resolve, for the purpose
of empowering the committee, who were appointed to agree with the
post riders, &c., to take bonds of the post masters, and appoint oaths
to be taken by the post masters and post riders ; and that Col. Foster
be excused, and Capt. Stone and Mr. Greenleaf be added to the com-
mittee.
Adjourned to nine o'clock to-morrow morning.
[Thursday,] May 18, 1775, A. M.
The committee who were appointed to revise the resolves respecting
the committee of safety, reported ; whereupon. Resolved, that three
o'clock in the afternoon be assigned for the choice of a committee of
safety, to consist of thirteen members, and for the further considera-
tion of said report.
Ordered, That Capt. Rawson, Mr. Bullen and Col. 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 Col. Warren, Mr. Gardner and Mr. Sullivan, be a
committee to bring in a resolve, recommending it to the inhabitants of
this colony, not to choose any person to represent them in Congress,
who has a commission in the army.
Ordered, That Major Fuller l|of Middleton,|l Mr. Whittemore and
Mr. Bliss, be a committee to wait upon the Hon. James Russell, Esq.,
impost master, to know if he has any public moneys now in his hands.
Ordered, That the president, Mr. Sullivan and Col. Warren, be a
committee to bring in a resolve, recommending to the inhabitants of
this colony to make no purchases, nor receive any conveyances of es-
tates, 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, Doct. 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.i
Adjourned to three o'clock, P. M.
(1) Sir Henry Frnnklnnd was the proprietor of extensive estntes in Hopkinton, where ho liad a
country residence previous to the Revolution, and maintained tlie splendor of an English nobleman.
On the commencement of hostilities, his lady hecame alarmed at the movements of the people, and
asked and obtained leave to remove to Boston with a small portion of her effects.
1775.] SECOND PIIOVINCIAL CONGRESS. '2;{7
[Afieriiodii.]
Ordtral, That Mr. Sullivan, Col. Foster, Doct, Holten, Mr. Brag-
don and Capt. Batclielder, be a coinniittee to take into consideration a
letter from the conmuttee of correspondence for the town of Falmouth,
and such parts of a letter from the Hon. Enoch Freeman, E.sq., to the
secretary, as he may communicate. ^
(I) Tlio coiiiiiiiitcc oi" corro.siioii.k'iK-n oi' Fulnioutli addresscil tlic cuiiiuiiliui- oi' djfuty ol the
rroviiiciiil CongresH, on tlic I5tli of May, ns fullows:
" Jttay U please your honors :
Wo, the committee of correspondence in I'almoutli, would l>cg leave to represent to your lionorsi,
the .situation iinJ circumstances of tliis town uiid county; and if llicrc is any impropriety in our
doinj it, your candor will excuse it."
" Tlic alarming attempt of Col. Thompson, to take the ship Canccaux, Capt. Henry Mowat, com-
mander, now in this harbor, has occasioned very great uneasiness in this town, as it has a tendency
to bring on us certain ruin, by the admiral's resenting it, in such a manner, as to block up our har-
bor before tlio time. We have no force to oppose or prevent it, no fortifications, no ammunition, no
cannon, and, if provisions arc stopped from coming in here, the town is ruined, as well as the coun-
try, which depemls upon the town for supplies, of which, at present, there is a great scarcity. We
think Col. Thompson's attempt was rash and injudicious, if not unjustifiable, as we cannot learn he
had any authority from you or the Congress; wc are sure it was contrary to the will, and without
r.ny orders from his superior officers in the militia, though solicited for by him, and the people here
seemed to bi; laid under contribution to sulisist bis men. We iiopo care will bo taken that every
attack upon our enemies, through the province, shall be conducted by proper officers, orderly, regu-
larly, and with proper authority, lest it should occasion a civil war among ourselves. It is true, in
defending ourselves, which may be sudden, iiumcdiate and resolute opposition, in the best manner
that can be suddenly tliought of, should be adopted ; but we are afraid, that if any number of men,
at any time, and in any manner, may collect together, and attack any thing, or any person they
please, every body may be in danger. Sat verbum sapieiiti."
'■ We are also concerned, last there should a good deal of confusion arise, from a number of our
men in the country, possessing themselves of the enlisting papers, lately printed, some calling tbem-
gclves colonels, some majors, appointing their own oflicers, adjutants, chaplains, chirurgeous, &c.,
&.C., without having, as we can learn, any written orders for so doing : for they seem to contend,
already, who slrill be chief officers ; and tboy are uncertain, whether the men they enlist are to be
stationed here, for our defence, or march to the camp at Cambridge, to make up the standing army."
" Enlisting papers, we understand, were sent to Gen. 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 understand was the case, we cannot help thinking it v.'ould be most
l)tudent ; however, we shall not bo backward, if there is real occasion for our men ; and, in that
case, we humbly submit, whether it would not be best, that some person or persons should be ap-
pointed, to conduct the affair according to orders. We hope we shall be excused for thus troubling
your honors, as we were solicited to do it by a number of gentlemen."
" We are, with great veneration, your honors' most obedient humble servants.
ENOCH FREEMAN, per order.''
The committee to whom the communications, in relation to Col. Thompson, were referred, re-
ported the following letter to that gentleman, which, however, was not acceptcrl.
" SIR : — This Congress have received information, that the committee of correspondence of the
town of Falmouth, on hearing that you were about making an attack on the Canccaux, man of war,
lying in the harbor of that town, desired you to forbear any proceedings of that kind, which you
promised to do; but that you afterwards took the captain of said ship of war, and detained tlie
Hon. Jedcdiah Preble and Enoch Freeman, Esquires, as hostages for the return of the said captain;
and that you levied contributions of money, and other things, from the subjects there, and took a
boat belonging to the said Canccaux."
" Though this Congress approves of your general zeal for tiiis country, yet it appears that your
238 SECOND PROVINCIAL CONGRESS. [May 18,
The order of the day was moved for.
Ordered, That Capt. Brown, Mr. Bayley and Mr. Baker, be a com-
mittee to sort and count the votes for a committee of safety.
The committee appointed to count and sort the votes for a commit-
tee of safety, reported, that the following gentlemen were chosen, viz. :
Hon. John Hancock, Esq., Doct. Joseph Warren, Doct. Benjamin
Church, Capt. Benjamin White, Col. Joseph Palmer, Mr. Richard
Devens, Mr. Abraham Watson, Mr. John Pigeon, Col. Azor Orne,
Hon. Benjamin Greenleaf, Esq., Mr. Nathan Cushing, Doct. Samuel
Holten, Hon. Enoch Freeman, Esq.
The report was recommitted for filling up the blanks.
Ordered, That Mr. Kollock, Doct. Taylor and Col. 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 : whereupon
Resolved, that Mr. ||Abner|| 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 admon-
ished by the president, and be assured, that the Congress were deter-
mined to 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 be permitted to go into Boston with
the following articles, viz. : seven trunks ; all the beds, and furniture
to them ; 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 phae-
ton ; some tongues, hams and veal ; sundry small bundles. 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.]
conduot, iti tuUint' the caiitinii of the sliip, a^jiiiiist your promise, aiicl your levying money, or other
tilings, of the i)oople, is, by no raeuns, justiliuble: and it is tlierefoio expected, thut you attend tlie
next congress that shall be held In this colony, and to 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."
(1) Notwithstanding the permission given by the committee to Lady Frankland, to carry with her
the articles of property monlioncd in one of the resolves, some excitement arose among the inhabitants
of the vicinity, from the preparations made for her departure. An armed party arrested her jour-
ney, and detained her person and effects, until the action of Congress liberated them from captiv-
ity. The censure, so lightly inflicted, seems to have been incurred, for the indiscreet zeal, which
interposed to prevent tlie enjoyinont of the privileges granted by the resolve.
1775.] SECOND PROVINCIAL CONGRESS. 2:19
[Friday,] May ID, 1775, A. M.
Resolvrr/, Tliat Col. Bond be, and hereby is directed, to appoint a
guard of six men to escort Lady Frankland to Boston, witli such of
her eflects as this Congress have permitted her to carry with her ; and
Col. Bond is directed to wait on Gen. 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
atVord him, in going into or out of Bo.ston, or sending some suitable
j)erson there, which appears to be nece.ssary, in order to save some of
his valuable effects, wliicli, there is reason to fear, were exposed by the
late fire.
Ordered, Tliat Col. Warren wait on Gen. 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 offi-
cers, as they shall report to be prepared for receiving their commis-
sions.
A letter from the committee of correspondence l|of Connecticut ||
was read, respecting the taking of Ticonderoga ; whereupon, Ordered,
that Mr. Gerry prepare an answer thereto, informing them what steps
this Congress have taken relative to that affair. ^
(1) The coiiiniilteo of correspoiidei'.ee write from Hartford, May 16, 1775. The letter is sul)-
scrihed by Erastus Wolcot, William Williams, Samuel Bishop and Samuel H. Parsons.
" GENTIiEMEN: — We were yesterday informed of the success of an expedition, undertaken and
pet on foot liy some individuals of this colony, in a secret manner, against Ticonderoga and Crown
Point, the particular account of which you will have received before this comes to hand : immedi-
ately on the receipt of this news, an express was dospatclied from hence to the Continental Con-
gress, for their advice in tliis important matter ; posts were also sent to Alliany, to the committee of
corrts|)ond(;nce for that city, requesting them to nfi'ord their aid in maintaining that pass, till tho
opinion of the colonies can be known. We understand an expedition against the same place hath
been undertaken under the authority of your province ; !)Ut, the adventure being set on foot
by some private gentlemen in tliis colony, and success having attended their enterprizo before tho
forces from the Massachusetts Bay cume up, some question arose about tho rigiit to command and
hold this important pass. We consider all tlie colonics, and the New England colonics especially,
as brethren, united together in one joint interest, and pursuing the same gonernl design ; and that
whatever expedition, in furtlicrance of the grand designs, may bo undertaken by any one of the col-
onies, or body of men, in citlier of them, ought to be considered as undertaken for the joint henetit
of the whole confederate colonies, ind the expenses of tlie ent;~rprize, and cost of maintaining and
defending the same, are to be borne by all, in proportion to their abilities. This is not a time for the
colonies to contend about precedence ; but we Iiope all will wish to put to a helping hand, and mu-
tually afford each other all necessary assistance against our common enemy. Some pnrls of your
province are conveniently situated to furnish men, &c., for maintaining our possession ; we doubt
not you will exert yourselves to secure every advantage which may accrue from this successful at-
tempt, in which we hope the city and county of .\lbany, and the colony of Connecticut, will co-
operate with you ; but of tills we cannot assure you, as our calls are very many, &c.
We are, gentlemen, your humble servants."
"We liope you will not omit any thing you can do, as it is uucorlaln what Now V'ork will under-
t.ike, without tho advice of the general congress, &c."
240 SECOND PROVINCIAL CONGRESS. [May 19,
Ordered, That Doct. Perkins and Capt. Baker be added to the com-
mittee, who were appointed to inquire where the treasurer can borrow
money.
Resolved, That all persons who may have any goods or chattels, be-
longing to Lady Frankland, now in their custody, which are not men-
tioned in the resolve of this Congress for allowing her, with certain
effects to go into Boston, be, and hereby are directed, to permit her to
send them to Hopkinton, or dispose of them in any way agreeable to
her, not inconsistent with the resolves of this Congress.
The committee appointed to consider what steps may be taken for
the relief of such of the inhabitants of Boston as come over to Charles-
town, &c., reported; whereupon. Ordered, that Deacon Cheever, Col.
Davis and Capt. Withinton, 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 cor-
respondence of Connecticut ; which was [^accepted.]!
Adjourned to three o'clock, P. M.
[Afternoon.]
Ordered, That Doct. Holten, Mr. Whittemore and Major Bliss, be
a committee to take into consideration the representation made to this
Congress by Col. Warren, by desire of Gen. 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 providing a house
for the abode of Joseph Trumbull, Esq., of Connecticut, and another
for the chairman and the other members of the committee of safety.
The report of the committee for revising the commissions of [the
committee of] safety, after being read paragraph 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, Esq., Doct. Joseph
Warren, Doct. Benjamin Church, Capt. Benjamin Church, Capt. Ben-
jamin White, Col. Joseph Palmer, Mr. Richard Devens, Mr. Abraham
Watson, Jr., Mr. John Pigeon, Col. Azor Orne, Nathan Cu.'shing, Esq.,
Col. William Heath, Col. Thomas Gardner, Col. 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 resolu-
a [accepted, and is as follows, viz.]
(1) Mr. Gerry'i" draft of an answer, never entered on the record, is not retained on the files of
1775] SECOND PROVINCIAL CONGRESS. 241
tions of said congresses, empowered to do several other acts for the
service of the colony, as by the journals and records of said congresses
appear :
It is Resolved, That, whatever the said committee of safety, or any
of tliem, have done pursuant to the said resolutions of said Congress,
shall be held good and valid; and that the said inhabitants of said col-
ony 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 exigencies 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
in 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, Th^X. [Hon. John Hancock, Esq., Doct. Joseph
Warren, Doct. Benjamin Church, Capt. Benjamin White, Col. Joseph
Palmer, Mr. Richard Devens, Mr. Abraham Watson, Mr. John Pigeon,
Col. Azor Orne, Hon. Benjamin Greenleaf, Esq., Mr. Nathan Cush-
ing, Doct. Samuel Holten, Hon. Enoch Freeman, Esq.,] be a commit-
tee of safety for this colony hereafter, until some further order of this,
or some future congress or house of representatives of this colony
shall revoke their, or either of their appointments.
And it is also Resolved, That the said committee of safety shall be,
and hereby are empowered, when they shall think it necessary, in de-
fence 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 obedience 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 committee of safety shall judge most condu-
cive to the defence and service of the colony ; and the general, and
other officers 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, respecting this or any other matter.
31
242 SECOND PROVINCIAL CONGRESS. [May 19,
And, whereas, the former committee of safety were, by a resolve of
this Congress, empowered to nominate persons to this Congress, to be
commissioned to be officers in the army now establishing for the de-
fence of this colony, and said committee having already given orders
to a number 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 regiments are completed, may be commission-
ed by this Congress ; and if any regiments should be nearly completed,
and the officers thereof ready to be commissioned, agreeably to the re-
solve of this Congress, during the time between 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 com-
missions, signed by the president of this Congress, and attested by the
secretary, shall be delivered to the said committee for this purpose.
And it is also Resolved, That any five of the said committee be a
quorum, with -full power to transact any business which the committee,
by the resolves above, are empowered and vested with authority to do.
Ordered, That letters be sent to the Hon. Benjamin Greenleaf, Esq.
and the Hon. Enoch Freeman, Esq., informing them of their being
chosen members of the committee of safety, and requesting their at-
tendance 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 H^colony,!] to
draw from the magazines, which are or may be provided for that pur-
pose, such provisions and other stores as, from time to time, he shall
find necessary for the army ; and he is further empowered, to recom-
mend to the Congress such persons as shall be necessary, and as he
shall think qualified, to serve as deputy commissioners ; and said dep-
uty commissioners, 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 exe-
cuting his office, as shall be, by him, found necessary ; and his con-
tracts, 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 examine, and if they find them reasonable, con-
sidering the exigencies of the times, to draw on the treasury for pay-
ment of the same.
The form of a commission for Gen. Ward was read, amended and
iiccepted, and is as follows :
a ||provinrp.||
1775.] SECOND PROVINCIAL CONGRESS. 243
'J'liK Congress ok tiik Colony of tiik Massachusetts Bay.
To the Hon. Artemas Ward, Esq. — Greeting:
We, reposing especial trust and confidence in your courage and
good conduct, do, by these presents, con.stitute 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 inferior officers and soldiers; and to keep
them in good order and discipline, and they are hereby commanded to
obey you as their general ; and you are yourself to observe 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 committee of safety, so far as the said committee is em-
powered, by their commission, to order and instruct you, for the de-
fence of this, and the other colonies ; and to demean yourself accord-
ing to the military rules and discipline established by Congress, in pur-
suance of the trust reposed in you.
, the of A. D., 1775.
By order of Congress.
President pro tempore.
Secretary/ pro tempore.
Ordered, That Col. Foster, Capt. Stone and Mr. Webster, be a com-
mittee 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 dis-
trict in the colony.
Resolved, That there be a blank left in the commissions, to be given
the officers of the several regiments of the colony army, for the rank
of the regiment, and that [blank] 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 regiments, 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 regi-
ments llhave|| formerly sustained in the old arrangement from which
they are taken, provided that can be ascertained, and where that can-
not be determined, the rank to be determined by lot,
244 SECOND PROVINCIAL CONGRESS. [May 20,
Resolved, That the commissions be all of one date, and that the
rank of the officers be determined by this Congress, or by a committee
from this Congress, at some future time.
Resolved, That Col. Samuel Gerrish have a commission for a colonel
in the army, and that the oath be administered to him by Mr. Gardner,
the receiver general.
[^Also, that commissions, as captains, issue for Richard Dodge,
Jacob Gerrish, William Rogers,] to bear date the 19th of May.
Adjourned till to-morrow morning, nine o'clock.
[Saturday,] May 20, 1775, A. M.
Ordered, That Col. Foster, Doct. 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 off.
Ordered, That Col. Thurston, Esquire Aikin and Mr. Crane, be a
committee to take into consideration a petition from a number of the
inhabitants of Deer Island. i
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 accepted, and is as follows, viz. :
Whereas, this Congress did, on the 30th of April last, pass a re-
solve for permitting such inhabitants of the colony to remove into
Boston, with their effects, fire arms and ammunition excepted, as
a [Also that captain's commission for Richard Dodyo ; do. Jacob Gerrish ; do. William Rogers ;
commissions to bear date the 19th of May.]
(1) The petition of the inhabitants of Deijr Island, corresponds in the representations of distress,
with those coming from many of the towns of the eastern coast. It was subscribed by Nathan
Dow, Robert Nason, Francis Haskell, Samuel Haynes, Courtney Babid^e, Isaiah Crockett and
Thomas Thompson, and is almost a solitary exception to the general correctness with which the
memorials to the Provincial Congress were drawn. The inartificial construction and simplicity of
language, render the description of want and embarrassment more vivid :
" DEER ISLAND, in the. county of Lincoln.
" To the honored gentlemen of the Provincial Congresv:
" 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 assist-
ance, as we are without powder and ball, and [have] 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 suffer,
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 tliere are on this island about three hundred
souls, and we beg you would consider in what poor condition we must be. Gentlemen : we can't
purchase corn nor pork at any rate whatsoever : and we 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."
May n, 1775.
1775] SECOND PROVINCIAL CONGRESS. 245
sliould incline thereto, it beiiitr in coiisequenceof general Gage's prom-
ise to tlie iiili;il)it;iiits of Uostoii, that, upon resigning their arms and
ammunition, tliey should have liberty to remove iVom said town with
their effects : and, whereas, but a small proportion of the said inhabit-
ants 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,
Krsolvcd, that Gen. Ward be, and he hereby is directed, to order the
guards, in future, not to suffer any provisions or effects, excepting fur-
niture and clothing, to be carried into the town of Boston, so long as
the said general Gage shall suffer the persons or effects of the inhabit-
ants 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 [was] direct-
ed to erase from the minutes the resolve which passed this Congress
for issuing colony notes of ten shillings each.
Whereas, this Congress did, on the fourth day of this instant May,
pass a resolve in the following form, viz. : Resolved, that each non-
commissioned officer and private soldier, who has, or shall enlist him-
self 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, em-
powered 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 give his bond, with suffi-
cient sureties, to the receiver general therefor ; said bond to be dis-
charged by a receipt produced by said officer, from each non-commis-
sioned officer and private soldier, that he has received the same :
And, whereas, this Congress have, by a subsequent resolve, super-
seded the appointment of the muster masters aforementioned, and di-
rected that Col. Benjamin Lincoln and Col. Asa Whitcomb be ap-
pointed muster masters in the Massachusetts army, whose business it
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 examine their arms and accou-
trements, &LC., [to ascertain] that they are in proper order ; and said
muster masters are thereby directed and empowered to receive from
Henry Gardner, Esq., receiver general, twenty shillings, lawful money,
for each and every non-commissioned officer and private soldier then
246 SECOND PROVINCIAL CONGRESS. [iMay 20,
mustered and sworn, as shall appear with arms, &c., 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 cancelled : and, whereas, it
is found that sufficient ready cash cannot be obtained so soon as it will
be needed for the purpose 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 gen-
eral, 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 re-
ceive of the receiver general, in notes aforesaid, they give bonds, and
that such bonds be discharged by receipts, as in and by the last men-
tioned resolve is directed.
Ordered, That the president, Major Hawley, Gen. Whitcomb, Mr.
Gerry, Col. Palmer, Col. Lincoln and Col. Foster, be a committee to
consider what measures are proper to be taken for organizing the Mas-
sachusetts army in the most effectual and ready manner.
RpHolved, That for the payment of advance pay to the Massachu-
setts 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 shil-
lino-s, 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
public treasury of this colony, the sum of shillings, lawful
money, on the twenty-fifth day of May, A. D., 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, A. D., 1776.
Receiver General.
Which notes shall be received in all payments in this colony, and no
1775.] SECOND PROVINCIAL CONGRESS. '247
discount or abatement shall be made thereon, in any payment, trade, or
e.xchange whatsoever.
The committee appointed to consider the practicability of providing
chaplains for the army, reported ; the report was read, and recommit-
ted.
The petition of Benjamin Thompson to the committee of safety,
was read, and ordered to subside.'
Adjourned to three o'clock, P. M.
[Aftcriiooii ]
The report of the committee appointed to consider the practicability
of providing chaplain.<s, was again read and accepted, and is as follows,
viz. :
VV^hereas, it is necessary that chaplains should be appointed in the
Massachusetts army, under the command of the Hon. Artemas Ward,
Esq., which, if appointed, on the establishment made by this Congress,
will greatly enhance the colony debt ; and, whereas, it has been repre-
sented to this Congress, that several ministers of the religious assem-
blies 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. Resolved, that it be, and it is hereby re-
commended, to the ministers of the several religious assemblies within
this colony, that, with the leave of their several congregations, they
attend said army in their several Upturns, || to the number of thir-
teen at one time, during the time the army shall be encamped, and
that they make known their resolutions, 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
Gen. Ward, the commission prepared for him by this Congress, as gen-
eral and commander in chief of the Massachusetts forces.
Ordered, That Major Brooks, Col. Mitchell, Esquire Rawson, Es-
quire Dix and Major Bliss, be a committee to examine the prisoner at
the door, brought from head quarters, and report some order to be
taken thereon.
The president communicated to the Congress the request of the se-
lectmen of Boston, that the Congress would permit Mr. Hall to carry
(1) Jlr. Benjamin Tliornpson, of Concord, in New Hampshire, represented, that he had been ar-
rested and confined in Woburn, upon suspicion of being inimical to the liberty of the country : that
the committee of correspondence had made a public examination, but were not pleased to acquit or
condemn him : that his personal safety and reputation de[>ended on a thorough and impartial inves-
tigation of the charges against him : and prayed the committee of safety to take the subject into
consideration, and afford him a full and fair trial, and an honorable discharge from confinement.
248 SECOND PROVINCIAL CONGRESS. [May 20,
two loads of hay into Boston, one for himself and one for another per-
son, (lieutenant governor Oliver;) whereupon, Ordered, that the mes-
senger in waiting ||for an answer|| be dismissed.
Resolved, That only the colonels of each regiment should attend
this Congress to receive their commissions, unless they should be in-
disposed, or otherwise necessarily prevented ; in which case, the next
field officer may apply for his commission, and commissions for the in-
ferior officers in his regiment.
The Hon. Mr. Dexter having, by order of Congress, administered
the oath to Gen. Ward, his commission was delivered to him by the
president.
The following commissions were likewise delivered, viz. : to Thom-
as Cogswell, John Wood, captains, under the command of Col. Ger-
rish; Ephraim Doolittle, colonel ; Ebenezer Learned, colonel; Joseph
Reed, colonel ; James Bricket, lieutenant colonel, under Col. James
Fry; Calvin Smith, major, under Col. Joseph Reed; Danforth Keyes,
lieutenant colonel, Jonathan Holman, major, under Col. Ebenezer
Learned; Ebenezer Clap, lieutenant colonel, under Col. Joseph Reed.
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 Tuesday afternoon, be assigned
to consider a motion made by Col. Doolittle, for appointing a muster
master for the enlisted companies at Northfield.
Ordered, That Capt. Brown and Esquire Dix, be a committee to
procure a guard over the prisoners |lbrought|| from head quarters,
and that the guard who conducted them from thence be now re-
leased.
Adjourned till to-morrow afternoon at four o'clock.
SuNDAT, May 21, 1775, A. M.
Met at four o'clock, and adjourned to to-morrow morning, eight
o'clock.^
(1) From this date until the dissolution of the second Provincial Congress, no journal of the pro-
ceedings is preserved. The fragments on the following |)ages, have been gathered from the papers
on the files, from the copies of resoWes certified to be correct by Mr. Secretary Freeman, and from
authorized publications in the prints of the times. These relics afford a very imperfect history of
the doings of the Congress during the last eight days of its existence, and excite deep regret for the
loss of the record, which, it is probable, from the evidence afforded by the volumes preserved, was
nover entered in regular form by the clerk.
I?:.-..] SECOND PROVINCIAL CONGRESS. '249
Monday, May 22, 1775.
[The committee on the petition from tlie inhabitants of Deer Island,
reported as follows, viz. :]
[The committee on the petition of a number of the inliabitants of
Deer I>I.iiid, so called, in the county of Lincoln, 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 : l)Ut whether it will be best to remove them from
the island, or to supply them with I.IO bushels of corn, 100 bushels of
potatoes, '2 barrels of pork, 20 cod lines, with leads and hooks, and a
small quantity of salt, we submit to the Congress.]
[Ordererl, That the consideration of this report be deferred until
there is a fuller house.]
[The committee appointed to consider what measures should be
adopted in relation to the estates of persons unfriendly 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
honor and trust, have become inimical to this colony ; and mere-
ly on principles of avarice have, in conjunction with the late Gov.
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 Boston, 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 give evidence of a sincere re-
pentance, by actions worthy of men and christians ; and that no per-
son within this colony shall take any deed, lease, or conveyance what-
ever, of the lands, houses, or estates of such persons. And it is here-
by recommended to the committee of inspection, in every town in
this colony, to see this resolve fully enforced, unless in such cases as
the Congress shall otherwise direct,]
[A letter was received from Gen. Ward, recommending that the ord-
nance, arms and ammunition, mentioned in the following list, be im-
mediately procured, and sent to head quarters, for the supply of the
army of Massachusetts :]
[30 twenty-four pounders, and if that number of cannon cannot be
32
250 SECOND PROVINCIAL CONGRESS. [May 22,
obtained, that the weight of metal be made up with eighteen pounders,
double fortified: 10 twelve pounders: 18 nine pounders: 21,600
pounds of powder, and 80 balls for each gun : 1500 stands of arms :
20,000 pounds of musket powder : 40,000 pounds of lead : 1700 iron
pots :]
[ Ordered, That the letter be referred to the committee of safety.]
[The Congress having requested the Rev. Doct. Langdon to deliver
a sermon before the next Massachusetts Congress, at their meeting in
Watertown, on the last Wednesday of this month, and he having sig-
nified 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 assemble at that time,
agreeably 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 be directed to cause the foregoing res-
olution to be published in the newspapers, as soon as may be.]
[A letter was received from the committee of safety, inclosing a
communication from Col. Benedict Arnold, giving information of the
surrender of Ticonderoga.]i
[Ordered, That the following letter to Col. Arnold, reported by a
committee, be accepted, signed by the secretary, and forwarded in the
name and behalf of this Congress, as soon as may be.]
[Sir: — This Congress have this day received your letter of the 11th
instant, informing the committee of safety of the reduction of the fort
at Ticonderoga, with its dependencies, which was laid before this Con-
gress by said committee. We applaud the conduct of the troops, and
esteem it a very valuable acquisition.]
[We thank you for your exertions in the cause, and considering 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 written to the general
assembly of that colony, to take the whole matter respecting 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 en-
close you.]
[The president communicated the following letter from the Hon-
James Russell, commissioner of imposts :]
(1) 'I'lie letters of Col. Arnold will lie lound in tlip Apppiidix.
1775. J SECOND PROVINCIAL CONGRESS. 251
[Charlestown, May VJlk, 1775.
To Josi-.iMi W.\RREN, Esq., President of the. Provincial Congress.
Sir : — I yesterday, by Major Fuller, Mr. Whittemore and Mr. Bliss,
received a resolve of the Congress, appointing them a committee to call
on me, to know whether I have any of the public moneys in my hands;
in answer thereto, I would desire you, Sir, to inform the Provincial
Congress, that the light money, for several years past, since the in-
crease of light houses, and more especially since the obstructions of
the last year upon our trade, has not been sufficient to defray the ex-
pense of said houses ; and I have, consequently, been under a necessi-
ty to apply the money arising from the impost for that purpose. Ever
since I received the favors of my country in being chosen to the im-
post office, I have done all in my power to discharge my duty therein,
to their satisfaction. The means of procuring oil, by the unhappy
and increasing troubles of our country, appearing very uncertain and
precarious, I have endeavored to purchase as large a stock as I could ;
and as the impost bill expired on the first of March last, the public
moneys I have in my hands, will not be more than sufficient to enable
me to pay for the oil contracted for, to complete the stock for the
present year.
I am your most humble servant,
James Russell,]
[Ordered, T\\?\X. Doct. Taylor, Mr. Hale and Mr. Kollock, be a com-
mittee to take the foregoing letter into consideration, and, in particu-
lar, to inquire into Mr. Russell's right of making the contract therein
mentioned, and the circumstances of it, and report as soon as may be.]
Tuesday, May 23, 1775.
[The committee appointed to consider the letter from Brownfield,
reported, that they find by the bearer of the letter, that the inhabitants
have some arms, powder, &c , and are not in immediate danger, ex-
cept from indians, who are friendly at present ; and the state of our
affairs calls for such large supplies, that the consideration of their re-
quest should be deferred till the sitting of the next Congress.]
[The report was accepted, and Mr. Israel Hobart was directed to
inform the bearer of the letter of the action of the Congress thereon.]
[The committee appointed to bring in a resolve respecting the dep-
redations of the British troops on the islands and sea coasts, reported
as follows :]
252 SECOND PROVINCIAL CONGRESS. [May 23,
[Whereas, the forces under the command of general Gage and ad-
miral Graves, are frequently plundering and making depredations on
the islands and sea coasts of this province, from whence they plunder
or purchase hay, cattle, sheep, and many other things, to the injury,
not only of individuals but also to the great damage of the public, and
thus strengthen the hands of our enemies ;]
[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, &c., that are exposed to those ravages, and cannot be
sufficiently guarded, so far into the country as to be out of the way of
those implacable enemies to this people. Also, that it be recommend-
ed to the committees of correspondence in each town and district, and
to the selectmen where no such committee is chosen, that they take
effectual care that this resolve be immediately and strictly put into ex-
ecution, 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 referred 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, 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 Capt. Brown be directed to see that said How is
sent to head quarters, with a copy of the foregoing resolve.]
[Whereas, Thomas Nichols, 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 Capt. Kingsbury be directed to appoint some per-
sons to conduct the abovementioned negro to Natick, agreeably to the
foregoing resolve.]
1775.] SECOND PKOVINCIAL CONGRESS. 253
[TIh* cormiiittfc ;i|»|)<)iiit('(l to consider wliat liirtlier measures aie
necessary to l)o taken lor tlie orijani/ation of the army, presented tlieir
report, whicii was read, accepted, and is as follows:]
[Tlie committee ap|)ointed on the ^iOth of Mav current, to consider
what further orders are necessary to he taken and |)assed, that tiie
army now raisinjr hy this province, for tlie necessary delence thereof,
may be effectually officered and organized, have attended that service,
and beg leave to report, that they are humbly of opinion, that, for the
end aibresaid, it is necessary that, over and above the general already
appointed for the said army, and commissioned by Congress, the fol-
lowing officers, not yet ordered by Congress, should be chosen and
commissioned, to wit : one lieutenant general, two major generals,
four brigadiers generals, two adjutants generals, and two quarter mas-
ter 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 brigadiers general should be chosen
and taken, of and from among the colonels, who may be commission-
ed by Congress.
All which is humbly submitted by your committee, who ask leave to
sit again.
Joseph Hawley, per order.']
Wednesday, May 24, 1775.
[Ebenezer Cutler, of Northborough, having been brought before
this Congress, on complaint of sundry persons, for uttering sundry ex-
pressions 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 Ebenezer had requested
that he might have the same privilege of going into the town of Bos-
ton, without his effects, as other persons have, by the order of Con-
gress :]
[The report was accepted, and it was thereupon Resolved, that he
have liberty for so doing.]
[Mr. Gerry, from the committee to consider the propriety of ap-
pointing some additional armourers, reported as follows, viz. :]
[Resolved, That the committee of supplies be empowered and di-
rected to appoint such and so many armourers, in addition to those
254 SECOND PROVINCIAL CONGRESS. [May 24,
already appointed, as may be wanted by the army of this colony ; pro-
vided the whole number, including those already appointed, shall not
exceed fifteen, and that the said armourers, as also those already ap-
pointed 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 the soldiers, to
qualify them to pass muster. And the committee of supplies are here-
by empowered and directed to discharge such armourers 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. Whitte-
more, Capt. Dwight and Mr. KoUock, 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 Charlestown and Roxbury to which they belonged ; Re-
solved, that Messrs. Isaac Foster, Nathaniel Gorham, Edward Good-
win, John Frothingham, Joseph Hopkins, Col. Joseph Williams, Mr.
Nathaniel Patten, Mr. Lewis Fay, Mr. James Bridge, Jr., Major Na-
thaniel Ruggles, Mr. Noah Brown, Mr. William Gridley, 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 pro-
ceed unless further provision be made in that behalf; therefore, Re-
solved, that said committee, or any three of them, shall have full power
to procure, upon the credit of this colony, in the most frugal manner,
as much provision as th( y shall find necessary to support those poor
persons to the places of tlieir 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 be-
fore directed, shall be paid out of the donations to the poor of said
town of Boston, now in the hands of the committee who were ap-
pointed to receive and dispose thereof; and if that should be insuffi-
cient, the remainder shall be paid by this colony ; and the committee
hereby appointed to the service aforesaid, are hereby directed to lay
before the next Congress, an account of the charges arising in pursu-
1775] SECOND PROVINCIAL CONGRESS. 255
ance of tho above commission, that whatever sliall appear to be rea-
sonable and just, may be liquidated and allowed.]'
[Ordered, That Col. Joseph Cushing, Mr. Ellis and Mr. Crane, be
a committee to till up and deliver to the colonels of each regiment,
the commissions for the officers of their respective regiments, when
said committee shall be notified, by the secretary of this Congre.'^s, that
the Congress have approved of the persons to be commissioned ; and
that blank commissions be put in the hands of said committee, prop-
erly authenticated, for that purpose; and that when said commissions
are filled up, they be delivered by said committee to the colonel, on
his applying for the same, he engaging that 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 stationed at Roxbury, and James Prescott, Esq., be appointed
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, and is as follows, viz. :]
[ To the Inhabitants of the Massachusetts Bay ;]
[Friends and Fellow Countrymen : — With great satisfaction
we bear public testimony of your disposition to serve the glorious
cause in which America is now engaged, evidenced by your readiness
to supply, 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 public
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 hundred thousand
pounds, lawful money, for which the receiver general is directed to is-
sue 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 public 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
(1) On the sheet rontiiiniiig the foregoing resolves, are endorsed (ho following names : Mr. Fish-
er, Col. Barrett, Capt. Homes, Hon. Col. Bowers, Mr. Sawyer, Hon. Mr. Deiter, Col. Gront, .Mr.
Webster. .Mr. Sayer was suhsequently iiibstituted for .Mr. Dexter.
256 SECOND PROVINCIAL CONGRESS. [May 25,
our power to carry into effect the measures undertaken for the salva-
tion of the country.]
[That the army sliould 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 vigor-
ous 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, with furnishing as nmch cash as will be
necessary for the good purposes before mentioned, especially when it
is considered, that there are now no ways of improving money in
trade, and that there is the greatest probability, that the other colonies
will give a ready currency to the notes, which will render them, in one
respect at least, on a better footing than any 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 re-
taining 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 public]
Thursday, May 25, 1775.
[The committee ordered to inspect the several towns and district
stocks of powder, and consider what towns are well stocked, and what
proportion they could spare for the public service, have attended that
business, and beg leave to report the following proportion, viz. :]
[Suffolk — Roxbury 3 barrels, Medfield 1, Wrentham 4, Stoughton 1,
Med way 1, Walpole I. Essex — Marblehead 3, Newburyport 3, New-
bury 1, Andover 2, Haverhill 2, Bradford 1-2, Boxford 1-2. Middle-
sex-— Cambridge 3, Charlestown 3 3-4, Marlborough 3, Framingham
2, Littleton 1-2, Chelmsford I 1-2, Sudbury 2, Weston 1, Westford
1-2, Groton 1, Townshend 1-2, Dracut 1, Stow 1-2. Plymouth —
Bridgewater 4, Middleborough 1. Worcester — Worcester 1, Lancas-
ter 1, Mendon 2 1-2, Brookfield 3, Oxford 1 1-2, Charlton 1-2, Sutton
2 1-2, Leicester 1, Westborough 1 1-2, Shrewsbury 2 1-2, Lunenburg
1 , Bolton 1 . Total— Ql 3-4 barrels.
Daniel Thurston, per ordcr.'^
[Upon the foregoing report. Ordered, that the committee who
brought in said report, be directed to bring in a resolve in conformity
177->.] SECOND PROVINCIAL CONGRESS. 257
thereto, 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 each town be notified of the quan-
tity respectively to be taken from its stock.]
[The committee reported a resolve as directed, wliich was read and
accepted, and is as follows, viz. : Resolved, that there be drafted out
of the town stocks of powder from each respective town aforesaid,
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 state of the colony magazine will admit of it, or otherwise paid
for in money, and that the selectmen of each town be forthwith served
with an account of the draft made on their town, and that they imme-
diately deliver it to the committee of supplies, or their order.]
[The committee of safety having represented to this Congress, that
considerable difficulty exists in the adjustment of Gen. Ward's regi-
ment, in consequence of the pretensions of Col. Joseph Henshaw and
Col. Jonathan Ward to the post of lieutenant colonel in said regiment,
it was Ordered, that said representation, as also the memorial of Col.
Henshaw, setting forth his claims to said post, be referred to a com-
mittee. The committee having considered the matter, reported a re-
solve, which was accepted, and is as follows :]
[Resolved, as the opinion of this Congress, that Col. Ward is best
entitled to receive the commission as lieutenant colonel of the regi-
ment, which right was disputed by Lieut. Col. Henshaw.]
[Ordered, That the Hon, Mr. Dexter be desired to attend his duty
on the committee for countersigning the treasurer's notes, immedi-
ately.]
[Mr. Dexter transmitted the following letter to the Congress, which
was ordered to be read.]
[Dedham, Mai/ 25, 1775.
Honored Gentlemen : — I was under the necessity to come home
last evening. Had I been at Congress to-day, and been as unwell as
I am at present, I should have very poorly performed my duty respect-
ing the notes. I found myself so indisposed this morning, that I ven-
tured to conclude to tarry till to-morrow morning at home, and sick
or well, will endeavor to be early at Watertown for that purpose.
With much regard, I am 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
33
258 SECOND PROVINCIAL CONGRESS. [May 25,
of the committee, that the said petition be sent to Gen. Thomas, and
that he be directed to inquire into the causes of the complaint therein
contained, and take proper measures for their redress.]
[The report was accepted.]
[The following letter was received from Gen. Thomas, and ordered
to be read.]
[RoxBURY Camp, May 25, 1775.
Gentlemen : — I have had the honor of being informed by your
committee, that the honorable Congress have made choice of me as
lieutenant general of the Massachusetts army, and to know whether I
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 honor 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 honorable Provincial Congress.'j
[The committee to whom was referred an application from the offi-
cers of the army, respecting absconding soldiers, reported. The re-
port was read, 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 ab-
sconding soldiers, or such as shall tarry beyond the time limited by
furlough : therefore, Resolved, that it be, and it hereby is recommend-
ed, to the committees of correspondence in the several towns and dis-
tricts in this colony, or to the selectmen, where no such committees
are appointed, that they take effectual care that such absconding or
delinquent soldiers be immediately sent back to their respective regi-
ments.]
FRiDAr, May 26, 1775.
[The Hon. Joseph Hawley, from the committee to prepare a letter to
the Provincial Congress of New York, now sitting in that colony, re-
ported the following, which was accepted, and ordered to be forward-
ed.]
[Watertown, 3Iai/ 26, 1775.
Gentlemen : — Enclosed are copies of a letter from Col. Arnold,
and a list of military stores at Ticonderoga.^ You cannot fail to ob-
(1) The letters of Col. Arnold, and the other documents relatinj; to the capture of Ticondcrog.T,
will be inserted in the Appendix.
1775] SECOND PROVINCIAL CONGRESS. 259
serve, that Mr. Arnold, for the defence of this colony, is endeavoring
tliiit such ordnance as he judges can be spared from that quarter,
shouhl be transported to tlie army in tliis colony. This step is taken
in consequence of orders given to him by our committee of safety.
Perhaps this may appear to you extraordinary, but, we trust, you will
candidly overlook such a mistake, if it be one, 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 infraction 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 hap-
pen, 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 representatives of the continent,
and whenever they shall inform us that they are needed for the general
defence, at any other part of the continent, than, in this colony, we
shall endeavor, that they be removed thither with the utmost despatch.]
[Gentlemen and brethren : could you have seen the horrid devasta-
tion 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 from the town with their
effects, as stipulated, which was no sooner done, than they were not
only refused liberty to carry out the most valuable part of those effects,
but their persons were 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 sav, gentlemen, could you see and realize 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 our en-
emies can improve with the least advantage to themselves for effecting
the like desolation, horrors and insults, on the inhabitants of your city
and colonv, or which might enable you to make the most effectual de-
fence.]
[Have you not, gentlemen, divers of those articles, as it were, under
your hand I 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 yourselves perishing
for the want of them, will not the chagrin and regret be intolerable ?
260 SECOND PROVINCIAL CONGRESS. [May 26,
Brethren, pardon our importunity. It is our own case. We behold
Castle William, and realize the ample warlike provisions and apparatus
therein, held by our enemies, to our infinite and inexpressible mortifi-
cation. We wish to Heaven that you may be timely admonished by
the consequences of our delay.
We are, &c.]
[The committee to whom was referred the letter of the Hon. James
Russell, reported the following resolve, which was accepted.]
[Resolved, That the Hon. James Russell, Esq. be, and he hereby is
directed, immediately to call in all the public moneys committed to his
care as impost officer, and pay the same to Henry Gardner, Esq., re-
ceiver general of this province.]
[It having been represented to this Congress, that it would be agree-
able to the inhabitants of the colony of New Hampshire, that the post
rider on the road from Cambridge 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 New Hampshire :]
[Resolved, That the route of the post rider from Cambridge be ex-
tended 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 representatives, 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 for use, yet, that it will be for the public
service that such men be accepted :]
[Therefore, Resolved, That the resolve of this Congress, passed on
the 6th instant, be so far reconsidered, that the muster masters be, and
they hereby are directed, to accept of all such able bodied and effec-
tive men, and muster them accordingly, any thing contained in the
aforementioned resolve to the contrary notwithstanding ; and that 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 accou-
trements, and also of the names of the towns to which they respec-
tively belong.]
[Upon a representation of the committee of safety, that Mr. Jona-
than Brewer, of Waltham, has, contrary to the orders of said commit-
tee, undertaken to enlist a company of rangers, has made use of artifices
1775.] SECOND PROVINCIAL CONGRESS. 261
and impositions to ol)t;iin said cidistments, and that he has also seized
and retained possession of horses and certain real estate, the private
property of various individuids, and converted the same to his own
use, whereby he has disqualified himself for the command of a regi-
ment, it was Ordered, that the matter be referred to Doct. Perkins,
Mr. Kollock and Mr. Bent.]
[The committee appointed to consider of the charges alleged
against Mr. Jonathan Brewer, by the honorable committee of safety,
having attended that service, beg leave to report the defence of said
Brewer, viz. : that he, the said Brewer, 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 Cols.
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 Saturday last past had returned Jones's horse.]
[He also owns the leasing part of said Jones's estate, and taking se-
curity ; which security, he says, was in the keeping of one Capt. But-
ler ; that he had proceeded in the affair merely from a principle of
saving the improvement of one Mr. Jennison, (whose lands were con-
tiguous to those of said Jones,) and which were exposed by a neo-Iect
of said Jones in keeping up sufficient fences. Said Jennison, (as
Brewer 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 proceed no further, unless they are enabled, by
hearing the full of the evidence supposed to support the complaint.
Per order : Rich.\rd Perkins, Chairman.']
Saturday, May 27, 1775.
[Resolved, That the committee of safety be directed to write to Col.
Arnold, and inform him that it is his duty to conform himself to such
advices and orders as he shall receive from this Congress.]
[Doct. Richard Perkins, from the committee appointed to examine
into the complaint against lieutenant colonel Brown, setting forth that
said Col. Brown has, at various times and places, used language disre-
spectful to the Congress, and tending to lessen and bring into con-
tempt the power and authority of the Congress of this province, made
the following report, which was accepted, viz. :]
[That after a full hearing of the allegations and proofs, for and
against said Brown, on the complaint of some unknown person,
through the selectmen of Waltham, to this honorable Congress, we
262 SECOND PROVINCIAL CONGRESS. [May 27,
are of the sentiment, that an unhappy controversy has existed in said
town, relating to public affairs, in which said Brown had exerted him-
self very earnestly in favor of the cause of liberty, by which means he
had disgusted several persons, who have since endeavored therefor to
censure and stigmatize him as being an officious, busy, designing man;
and, unhappily, it appears, that Mr. Brown has associated in taverns,
indiscriminately, with many persons, in discourse with whom, he, at
some times, had inadvertently expressed himself, which he would not
strictly justify himself in. And that it is evident, those disaffected an-
tagonists of Mr. Brown's, had taken the advantage of his halting,
purely from revenge ; and the committee adjudge, from the whole of
the evidence for and against said Brown, that he is injuriously treated
by the secret resentment of designing persons, and that he ought to be
reinstated to the esteem and countenance of every friend to the liber-
ties of this country.]
[Hon. Joseph Hawley, from the committee to bring in a resolve for
~the regular administration of justice, reported the following :]
[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* tres-
passes upon private property and private persons, but also to make the
most daring attacks upon the constitution, and to unite in their en-
deavors to disturb the peace, and destroy the happiness and security of
their country : and, whereas, this Congress conceive it to be their in-
dispensable 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 erect-
ed, consisting of seven persons, to be chosen by this Congress, whose
business it shall be to hear all complaints against any person or per-
sons, for treason against the constitution of their country, or other
breaches of the public peace and security, and to determine and make
up judgment thereon, according to the laws of this province, 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, iipon complaint made, to cause any person or persons
complained 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.]
1775.] SECOND PROVINCIAL CONGRESS. 263
[Jiesoivif/, Tliat [lilank] be, and licrcl)) are appointed,
as judges of tlie said court ul" iii<iuiry, to execute the trust, agreeable
to the above resolve.]
[This report liaviug been read, after some debate, Ordered, that the
further consideration thereof be referred to the next Congress.]
[The foMowing letter, re|)orted by a committee, to the governor and
company of the colony of Connecticut, was accepted, and ordered to
be forwarded :]
[Watkrtown, Slay 27, 1775.
Gknti.kmf.n : — Enclosed are copies of a letter from Col. Arnold,
and a list of military stores at Ticonderoga, &c. We have wrote you
of the 17th instant, relative to that fortress, &c., and we are desirous
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 therein, as soon as may be, and also the par-
ticular 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 great-
ly interested.]
[We have appointed and directed Col. Joseph Henshaw to repair to
you, and consult with you upon the affair of that fortress, the mainte-
nance of which, we think of the utmost importance to the security of
New York, and the 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 Hon. the Governor and Company of the
Colony of Connecticut. '\
[The following letter to Col. Benedict Arnold, reported by a com-
mittee, was jead, accepted, and ordered to be forwarded :]
[Wateutown, 31ny 27, 1775.
Sir : — We have this day, with pleasure, received your letter to the
committee of safety, of the 19th instant, by Capt. Brown, and return
you our hearty thanks for your exertions in the public cause, and fully
agree with you, that the interposition of Providence, in this, and many
other instances, is apparent, for which we have the greatest cause of
thankfulness.]
[We are clearly of opinion, that keeping Ticonderoga is a matter of
great importance, and, we make no doubt, the honorable Continental
264 SECOND PROVINCIAL CONGRESS. [May 27,
Congress will take that affiiir immediately under their wise considera-
tion, and give all necessary orders therefor, as we have addressed them
most earnestly on the subject.]
[You inform us you have had intimation that some persons were de-
termined to apply, in order to injure your character ; if any such ap-
plications 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
Col. Joseph Henshaw to repair to Hartford, and consult with the gen-
eral 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 Mr. Romans, has not come to hand, so that no order can be taken
thereon.
We are, &.c.]
To Col. Benedict Arnold,
Ticonderoga.
[Resolved, That Col. Joseph Henshaw, be appointed and directed to
repair to Hartford, and inquire whether provision is made, by the gen-
eral assembly of the colony of Connecticut, for securing and maintain-
ing the fortress at Ticonderoga, and the adjacent posts ; and if that
assembly has made provision for that purpose, the said Col. Henshaw
proceed directly to Ticonderoga, and acquaint Col. Arnold that it is
the order of this Congress that he return, and render accounts of his
expenses in that expedition, in order that he may be honorably dis-
charged ; but if Col. Henshaw shall find that such provision is not
made, and the general assembly be not sitting, that he proceed to Ti-
conderoga, and inform Col. Arnold that it is the order of this Con-
gress that he continue there, with such number of forces as said Col.
Henshaw shall judge necessary for the purpose. Nevertheless, if the
said Col. Henshaw shall find the general assembly sitting, and that
they 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.]
Monday, May 29, 1775.
[The committee appointed to prepare a letter to the Continental
Conwress, upon the necessity of maintaining a fortress at Ticonderoga,
reported. The report being read. Ordered, that it be accepted, and a
copy of the same, fairly transcribed, be sent immediately to Philadel-
phia. It is as follows, viz. :]
1775] SECOND PROVINCIAL CONGRESS. 265
[May it plkask your honors : — Enclosed are copies of a letter
from Col. Arnold, and a list of military stores at Ticonderoga, &.c.
It seems that the step Col. Arnold is taking, in transporting into
this colony part of the ordnance taken at the Lake Champlain, is in
consequence of directions given him in the haste and confusion of
war ; and if this Congress had considered the proposal in a calmer
season, perhaps they might have thought it would have been proper,
previously to have consulted our brethren of the colony of New York.
Certain it is, that this colony is in the most pressing need of the ord-
nance which Col. Arnold is transporting hither. We beg leave, on
this occasion, most solemnly to assure your honors, 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 the superficial consideration of
this step, there may seem to be some appearance of But we assure
ourselves, that such is the candor and generous sentiments of our
brethren of the colony 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 those canrton should arrive within the limits of this colony, we
shall hold ourselves accountable for them, to your honors, or any suc-
ceeding representatives of the continent. Permit us to observe, that,
in our opinion, nothing can be more obvious, than the infinite import-
ance to the safety of the inhabitants of the colonies of New York,
Massachusetts, New Hampshire, and even Connecticut, than the main-
taining, holding, and effectually securing the post of Ticonderoga, or
some spot near the southwest end of Lake Champlain; for if that post
is abandoned, the whole Lake Champlain will be commanded by the
government 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 colonies, all such attempts, for the destruction of the colo-
nies, may be vastly obstructed, if not wholly defeated. We have,
therefore, the most full confidence, that your honors 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
honors, that some effectual measures jnay be devised, that we may be
34
266 SECOND PROVINCIAL CONGRESS. [May 29,
supplied with that most necessary means of defence ; and we find that
deficiency of that article prevails in all the colonies. We most earn-
estly press this matter, as the salvation of these colonies so much de-
pends thereon. We would not presume to dictate to your honors, but
would quere whether it would not be prudent, to advertise all nations
of the opportunity they now have to dispose of that article in America
at 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 honors to
devise such measures as, under God, will effectually defeat a plan so
fatal, and which, if effected, will be the destruction of all the colonies.]
[Hon. Joseph Hawley, from the committee appointed to prepare a
letter to the governor of the colony of Connecticut, relative to the for-
tresses at Ticonderoga, Crown Point, dtc, reported the following,
which was read, accepted, and ordered to be sent, viz. :
[Watertown, May 29, 1775.
May it please your honor : — Yesterday, about three of the
clock, P. M., this Congress received your honor's most kind and
friendly letter of the 25th instant, enclosing the resolution of the gen-
eral Congress, of the ISth instant, relating to Ticonderoga, the order
of the general committee of association of New York for executing
the said resolution, the letter from the Connecticut delegates at New
York, each of which contain articles of intelligence 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
general Congress, touching Ticonderoga and said posts on Lake
Champlain, was their ultimatum, and that they would not reconsider
that resolution. 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 knowl-
edge more just, they will be fully convinced of the great impolicy of
abandoning Lake Champlain, which we conceive they have, in effect,
advised to ; although we confess their expressions are not of the clear-
est; but we are confirmed in our construction of the said resolution,
1775.] SECOND PROVINCIAL CONGRESS. 267
by the order taken by the general committee of New York, to execute
the same.]
[May it please your honor: 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. Johns, and the taking of the armed sloop on that
lake, by Col. Arnold's letter, a copy whereof we have sent you by
Col. llenshaw, we sent an express to New York, and to the general
Congress, signifying to the general Congress, and to the Congress of
New York, in the strongest manner, our opinion of the absolute ne-
cessity, and great advantages, of maintainirjg 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 argu-
ments and 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 endeavor to sug-
gest to your honor, and your assembly, the reasons which at present
occur to us; which, we apprehend, make it evident, that the maintain-
ing tliat post is not only practicable, and, under God, in the power of
the colonies, but of inexpressible necessity for the defence of the col-
ony 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 that if your honors approve them, you will, with
the greatest despatch, communicate them, with many more observa-
tions, which your better knowledge of facts will suggest, to the gene-
ral Congress; and, if you should judge it advisable, also to the Con-
gress 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, namely, 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
the purposes of general defence, and annoyance of the Canada ene-
my, and with regard to the feasibility of maintaining each place.
And, in the first place, as to the advantages of general defence, result-
ing 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 Charaplain, whether by scalping par>
268 SECOND PROVINCIAL CONGRESS. [May 29,
ties or large bodies, whether in the M'inter or open seasons of the year,
may almost certainly be discovered, 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 Champlain, will never
be known until executed ; as to enterprises, by any large bodies, 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 ne-
cessary 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 be felt, in case they engage 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 ''. If the
enemy hold Ticonderoga, they will effectually command the whole of
Lake Champlain ; if the united colonies hold it, they will so far com-
mand 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 infi-
nitely distress them : but from William Henry none can be made with-
out 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
they are much in favor of the former. For us to supply victuals for a
garrison or an army stationed at some one place or the other, we con-
ceive, that on the whole, they may be more easily and certainly afforded
to Ticonderoga than William Henry. We suppose that what should
be sent from ports on the westerly side of Hudson's river, may almost
as easily be transported to Ticonderoga or to William Henry ; and as
to such supplies as would go from all parts eastward of Hudson's
river, they may be conveyed to the former place with much more facil-
ity than the latter. And as to the speed and certainty of marching
succors, for the relief of a garrison at one place or the other, in
case of an attack, we suppose the advantages of Ticonderoga are vjist-
ly superior to those of William Henry; for we cannot forbear observ-
incr, that our brethren of New York government, settled on the west-
erly side of Hudson's river, have been always rather slow in warlike
efforts, and if the succors 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 pressing emergency, a
1775] SECOND PROVINCIAL CONGRESS. 269
large body of men might bo marched Irom tlie middle of the county
of Hampshire to Ticonderoga, 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 main-
taining the one or the other of the two posts, in time of war with Can-
ada, 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 at-
tack, until an army could be marched from New York or New En-
gland, sufficient to raise the seige ; the latter method we suppose most
politic, 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 Champlain, opposite to Ticonde-
roga, Crown Point, or still further on, affords great advantages for the
maintaining Ticonderoga, and defending the settlements on the east-
wardly side of Lake Champlain ; and there is artillery enough to spare,
to other places ; and if we abandon the land between 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, &c. ;
but if that fortress should be maintained, we shall have those very set-
tlements, 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, with-
out 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 expenses 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 honor, and the
general assembly, for the intelligence you have given us, and you may
depend, we shall not fail of continuing to communicate to you all im-
portant intelligence, with the utmost despatch. The interpositions of
Divine Providence, in favor of America, are very obvious, which de-
mand our utmost thankfulness. Enclosed is a brief narrative of some
of them.
We are, &,c.]
270 SECOND PROVINCIAL CONGRESS. [May 29, 1775.
[The committee to whom were referred the papers relating to Jona-
than Brewer, reported. The report was accepted, and is as follows,
viz. :
[Resolved, That the papers respecting Jonathan Brewer, be trans-
mitted by the secretary to the committee of safety, to be by them acted
upon in such a manner as they think fit, so far as to determine on
the expediency of recommending, or not recommending him, to this
Congress, as an officer of the army now raising in this colony.]
[The committee appointed to draft a letter to the Provincial Con-
gress of New Hampshire, reported the following, which was accepted,
and ordered to be forwarded :]
[Gentlemen : — Enclosed are copies of governor Trumbull's letter
to this Congress, enclosing a resolution of the Continental Congress,
respecting the fortresses at Ticonderoga, Crown Point, &c., and the
resolution of the general committee of association of New York
thereon, and a letter from the Connecticut delegates at New York to
their assembly.]
[The measure taken by the Continental Congress, if carried into
execution, in our humble opinion, will affect those colonies east of
Hudson's 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 Canadi-
ans and savages, if they should be so disposed, to range all that
country east, and distress all our river settlements.]
[We have addressed the Continental Congress upon the necessity of
keeping a fortress at or near Ticonderoga, and have also most press-
ingly desired the colony of Connecticut 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 generous regard to the common safety, which you have appeared
at all times to have, we trust, take the matter up, and by decent and
respectful addresses to the Continental Congress, endeavor to prevail
with them to alter a measure so dangerous in its effects.
We are, &c.]
(1) During tlie sessions from the 23d of May until the dissolution of Congress, conimissions were
issued to officers in the regiments commanded by colonels Learned, Doolittle, Reed, Thomas, Wal-
ker, VVhitcomb, Cotton, Ward, Prescott, Gerrish, Danielson, Mansfield, Bridges, Patterson, and
Scammond, on the certificates of the committee of safety, that the several corps were filled with a
proper complement of men.
JOURNAL
THIHD PROVINCIAL CONGRESS
M^^fiiitt^nuttt^f
Convened at Watertovm, Wednesday, May 31, 177 5....Dissolved Wednes-
day, July 19, 1775.
JOURNAL.
At a Congress of Delegates from the several towns and districts in
the Colony of the Massachusetts Bay, began and held at the Meeting-
house, in Watertown, the 31st of May, 1775.
Mr. Samuel Freeman was unanimously chosen Secretary, and the
Hon. Joseph Warren, Esq., President.
Resolved, That the Congress will now proceed to hear the returns,
and consider the qualifications of the members.
The returns being read, it appeared, that the following gentlemen
were elected by the inhabitants of their respective towns, to represent
them in this Congress, viz. :
COUNTY OF SUFFOLK.
Boston. — Hon. Thomas Cushing, Esq., Mr. Samuel Adams, Hon.
John Hancock, Esq., Joseph Warren, Esq., Mr. John Pitts, Benjamin
Church, Jr., Esq., Mr. Oliver Wendall.
Roxhury. — Capt. Aaron Davis.
Dorchester. — Col. [Lemuel] Robinson, Mr. James Robinson.
Milton. — Capt. Daniel Vose.
Braintree. — Col. Joseph Palmer.
Weymouth. — Deacon Nathaniel Bailey.
Hingham and Cohasset. — Benjamin Lincoln, Esq.
Dedham. — Hon. Samuel De.xter, Esq., Mr. Abner Ellis.
Medjield. — Mr. Daniel Perry.
Wrentham. — Mr. Jabez Fisher, Mr. Lemuel Kollock.
BrooTclinc. — Capt. Benjamin White.
Stoughton. — Mr. Thomas Crane.
Medway. — Capt. Jonathan Adams, Mr. Moses Adams.
Needham. — Col. William Mcintosh.
Walpole.—Ux. Enoch Ellis.
Bellingham. — Doct. John Corbet.
Chelsea. — Deacon John Sale.
35
274 THIRD PROVINCIAL CONGRESS. [May 31,
COUNTY OF ESSEX.
Salem. — Hon. Richard Derby, Jr., Esq., Mr. John Pickering, Jr.,
Capt. Samuel Williams, Mr. Daniel Hopkins.
Danvers. — Doct. Samuel Holten, Capt. William Shillaber.
Ipswich. — Col. Michael Farley, Dummer Jewett, Esq.
Newbury. — Joseph Gerrish, Esq.
Newhuryport. — Capt. Jonathan Greenleaf, Mr. Stephen Cross.
Marblehead. — Azor Orne, Esq., Mr. Elbridge Gerry, Capt. Jonathan
Glover, Mr. Joshua Orne.
Lynn. — Mr. Edward Johnson.
Andover. — Mr. Samuel Phillips, Jr.
Beverly. — Capt. Josiah Batchelder, Jr.
Rowley. — Mr, Nathaniel Mighill.
Salisbury. — Major Nathaniel Currier.
Haverhill. — Mr. Jonathan Webster, Jr.
Gloucester. — Col. Peter Coffin, Major Samuel Whittemore.
Boxford. — Capt. Asa Perley.
Almsbury. — Capt. Caleb Pillsbury.
Wenham, — Mr. Benjamin Fairfield.
Topsfield. — Deacon John Gould.
Methuen. — Mr. James Ingalls.
Middleton. — Mr. Archelaus Fuller.
Bradford. — [Col. Daniel Thurston.]
Manchester. — [N one. ]
COUNTY OF MIDDLESEX.
Cambridge. — Mr. Abraham Watson, Jr., Capt. Samuel Thatcher.
Charlestown. — Mr. Richard Devens, David Cheever, Esq.
Watertown. — Capt. Jonathan Brown.
Woburn. — Josiah Johnson, Esq.
Concord. — Col. James Barrett.
Newton. — Abraham Fuller, Esq.
Reading. — Mr. John Temple.
Marlborough. — Mr. Peter Bent.
Billerica. — William Stickney, Esq.
Framingham. — Joseph Haven, Esq., Capt. Josiah Stone.
Lexington. — Deacon Jonas Stone.
Chelmsford. — Col. Simeon Spaulding.
Sudbury. — Deacon Thomas Plympton.
Maiden. — Capt. Ebenezer Harnden.
1775.] THIRD PROVINCIAL CONGRESS. '275
Weston. — Col. Braddyl Smith.
Mrd/ord.— Mr. Benjamin Hall, Mr. Stephen Hall, 3d.
Ilopkinton. — Capt. John Holmes.
Westford. — Capt. Joseph Read.
Groton. — Hon. James Prescott, Esq.
Ptppercll. — Capt. Edmund Bancroft.
Waltham. — Mr. Jacob Bigelovv.
Stow. — Henry Gardner, Esq.
Skcrburnr. — Mr. Daniel Whitney.
Littleton. — Mr. Abel Jewett.
Toinishcnd. — Mr. Israel Hobart.
Stoneham. — Capt. Samuel Sprague.
Wilmington. — Capt. Timothy Walker.
Dracut. — Deacon Amos Bradley.
Holliston. — Col, Abner Perry.
Acton. — Mr. Josiah Hayward.
Tcickeshury. — Mr. Ezra Kendall.
Dunstable.^ — John Tyng, Esq., James Tyng, Esq., Mr. Joel Parkhurst.
Lincoln. — Major Eleazer Brooks.
COUNTY OF HAMPSHIRE.
Springfield. — Mr. John Hale, Mr. Edward Chapin.
West Springfield. — Major Benjamin Ely, Doct. Chauncy Brewer.
Northampton. — Joseph Hawley, Esq., Mr. Elias Lyman.
Wilbraham. — Major John Bliss.
South Hcudley and Granhy. — Capt. Phinehas Smith, [Mr. Noah
Goodman.]
Hatfield. — John Dickenson, John Hastings, Elihu White.
Westfield. — Col. John Mosely, Col. Elisha Parks.
Greenfield. — Mr. Samuel Hinsdale.
Hadley. — Col. Elisha Porter.
Sunderland and Montague. — Capt. Israel Hubbart, Doct. Moses
Gunn.
Brimfield, Monson and South Brimfield. — Col. Timothy Danielson.
Northfield. — Mr. Phinehas Wright.
Blandford. — Deacon William Boies, Capt. William Knox.
Granville. — Timothy Robinson, Esq., Mr. Nathan Barlow.
(1) John Tyiij, Esq. and James Tyng, Esq., were returned as delegates from Dunstable, May 25:
as tlie healtli of the former was so much impaired as to prevent his attendance, and the multiplici-
ty of engagements of public and private business compelled the latter to resign his seat, Mr. Joel
Parkhurst was elected, to supply the vacancies thus occasioned, June 12, 1775.
276 THIRD PROVINCIAL CONGRESS. [May 31,
Palmer. — Capt. David Spear.
Neic Salem. — Lieut'. Amos Foster.
Belchertown. — Capt. Nathaniel Dwight.
Colraine. — Lieut. Hezekiah Smith.
Greenwich. — Mr. Joseph Hendrick.
Amherst. — Nathaniel Dickinson, Jr.
Chesterfield. — Capt. Benjamin Bonney.
Shuteshury . — Mr. John Hamilton.
Williamsburg. — Mr. Josiah Dwight.
Shelburne. — Deacon Samuel Fellows.
Ware. — Joseph Foster, Esq.
Ludlow. — Capt. Joseph Miller.
Worthington. — Doct. Moses Morse.
Wliately.— Mr. Noah Wells, Mr. Salmon White.
Warivick. — Col. Samuel Williams.
COUNTY OF BERKSHIRE.
Sheffield, Great Barrington, Egremont and Alford. — Mr. William
Whiting.
Tyringham. — Major Giles Jackson.
Stockbridge. — Timothy Edwards, Esq., [Jerathmiel] Woodbridge,
Esq.
Lenox. — Capt. Caleb Hyde.
Williamstotvn. — Mr. Samuel Kellogg.
Richmond. — Capt. Elijah Brown.
Sandisfield. — Deacon Samuel Smith.
Tyringham. — Mr. Elijah Warren, John Chadwick, Esq.
Leverett.^ — [None.]
COUNTY OF WORCESTER.
Worcester. — Mr. David Bancroft.
Lancaster. — Doct. William Dunsmore, Deacon Thomas Fair-
banks.
Brookfield. — Jedediah Foster, Esq.
[31endon. — Capt. Thomas Wiswall.]
Oxford. — Edward Davis, Esq.
Sutton. — Capt. Henry King, Mr. Amos Singletary.
Rutland. — Mr. John Fessenden.
(1) The town of Levetett considering " tlieir circumstances as very young and weak," declined
returning a member
1775.] THIRD PROVINCIAL CONGRESS. 277
//iifrliiiiSDii. — John Caldwell, Esq.
Oakham. — Capt. Isaac Stone.
LrirrstiT and Spcnrrr. — Deacon Oliver Watson.
Paxton.^ — Rev. Alexander Tiiayer.
WcMorough. — Capt. Stephen Maynard.
Shnirsbiiri/. — Mr. Daniel Ilenienway.
Lunrnbtirg. — Doct. John Taylor.
Fitchbiirg. — Mr. Joseph Fox.
Uxhridgf. — Mr. Abner Rawson.
Harvard. — Mr. Joseph Wheeler.
Bolton. — Capt. Samuel Baker.
Stiirhridge. — Capt. Timothy Parker.
Hardirirk.- — Capt. William Page.
Grafton. — Doct. Joseph Batchelder.
Nrtv Braintrce. — Major James Woods,
Dudley. — Major William Learned.
Southborough. — Lieut. William Collins.
Upton. — Mr. Abiel Sadler.
Leominster. — Deacon Israel Nichols,
Holden.— Mr. John Child.
Western. — Simeon Dwight, Esq.
Douglas. — Deacon Jeremiah Whiting.
Athol. — Capt. John Haven.
Petersham. — Col. Jonathan Grout.
Westminster. — Deacon Nathan Wood.
Templeton. — Mr. Jonathan Baldwin.
Prineeton. — Mr. Moses Gill.
Rot/alston.^ — [None.]
Hubbardston. — Lieut. William Muzzy.
Charlton. — Rev. Caleb Curtis.
Northborough. — Mr. Levi Brigham.
(1) The district of Paxton, " to show their dislike of the extravagant wages of some of the offi-
cers in the army, in a time of general calamity," instructed their delegate, on his election, to use
his influence that no field officer should receive more than £6 per month, no captain more than £5,
and no other person have compensation in a greater (iroportion.
(2) The inhabitants of Hardwick, on the 22d of May, elected Capt. William Page to represent
them in Congress during June and July ; Capt. Stephen Rice to attend daring August and Septem-
ber • Col. Jonathan Warner to sit during October and November. The early dissolution of the ses-
sion prevented the two last named gentlemen from taking their seats.
(3) The inhabitants of Royalston, May 25, 1775, considering the infancy of the town, the number
of men absent in military service, and the inability of the people to maintain a representative, vo-
ted not to send a member of Congress at that time, but expressed readiness to comply with what-
ever the provincial assembly should recommend for the public good.
278 THIRD PROVINCIAL CONGRESS. [May 31,
COUNTY OF PLYMOUTH.
Plymouth. — Hon. James Warren, Esq., Mr. Isaac Lothrop.
Scituate. — Nathan Cashing, Esq.
Duxhury. — Mr. George Partridge.
MarsJtficM. — Mr. Benjamin White.
Bridgewater. — Col. Edward Mitchell.
Middlehorough. — Capt. Joshua White.
Rochester. — Major Ebenezer White.
Plympton. — Capt. Seth Cashing.
Pembroke. — Mr. John Turner, Mr. Jeremiah Hall, Mr. Edward
Thomas.
Kingston. — Hon. William Seaver, Esq., Deacon Ebenezer Wash-
burn.
Hanover. — Col. Joseph Cashing.
Ahington. — Doct. David Jones.
Halifax. — Mr. Ebenezer Thompson.
COUNTY OF BARNSTABLE.
Barnstable. — Col. Joseph Otis, Daniel Davis, Esq.
Yarmouth. — Capt. Elisha Basset.
Sandwich. — Mr. Stephen Nye, Col. [Nathaniel] Freeman.
Eastham. — Mr. Amos Knowles.
Welljleet.— Col. Elisha Cobb.
Haricich. — Mr. Joseph Nye.
Falmouth. — Mr. Moses Swift.
Chatham. — Col. Joseph Doan.
Truro. — Mr. Samuel Harding.
COUNTY OF BRISTOL.
Taunton. — Robert T. Paine, Esq., Col. George Williams, Capt.
[Simeon] Williams.
Rehoboth. — Capt. Thompson Carpenter, Mr. [Ephraim] Stark-
weather.
Swanzey. — Col. [Jerathmiel] Bowers, Mr. Philip Slead.
Dartmouth. — Hon. Walter Spooner, Esq., Benjamin Aikin, Esq.
Attleborough. — Capt. John Stearns.
Dighton. — Ezra Richmond, Esq., Doct. William Baylies.
Freetown. — Mr. Thomas Durfee.
Norton and Mansfield. — Capt. William Homes.
Easton. — Mr. Benjamin Pettingil.
1775] TIIIKD PROVINCIAL CONGRESS. 279
Kayiiham. — Mr. Beiijamiti Kinir.
lierkli y. — Mr. Samuel Tobey, Jr.
COUNTY OF YORK.
York. — Mr. Daniel Bragdon.
Kittny. — Edward Cutt, Esq.
U;//.s-.— [None.]
Berwick. — Major Ichabod Goodwin.
ArundcU. — Mr. John Ilovey.
Biddtford. — James Sullivan, Esq.
COUNTY OF CUMBERLAND.
Falmouth and Cape Elizabeth. — Mr. Samuel Freeman.
Gorham. — Capt. Bryant Morton.
Brunsicick. — Col. Samuel Thompson.
North Yarmouth. — David Mitchel, Esq.
[Scarborough.']^ — [None.]
COUNTY OF LINCOLN.
Pownalborough. — Mr. Timothy Langdon.
Georgetown and Woolwich. — Capt. Samuel McCobb.
Topsham. — [Mr. James Fulton.]
Gardinerston. — Mr. Joseph North.
DUKES COUNTY.
Chihnark. — [None.]
Tishury — James Athearn, Esq.
Edgarton. — Mr. Beriah Norton.
COUNTY OF NANTUCKET.
[Sherburn.] — [None.]
31st May, 1775. Ordered, That Doct. Holten, Mr. Watson and
Col. Lincoln, be a committee to wait on the Rev. Doct. Langdon, and
(1) The inhabitants of Scarborough represented, that " they tliought themselves not able to sup-
port the charge of a member of Congress, said town having no money to pay any tax whatever :
lumber was the chief trade ; that being done, the crops having been very short, and no supplies
coming from the southern colonies, they were in great distress for want both of money and provis-
ions : but they were willing to exert themselves to the uttermost to support good government and
defend just rights and privileges." They added their "prayers, that God might bless the counsels
of Congress, and, in the end, confirm that liberty which our forefathers came into these regions to
enjoy."
280 THIRD PROVINCIAL CONGRESS. [May 31,
inform him that this Congress are now ready to attend divine service,
and request his attendance.
Resolved, That four o'clock this afternoon be assigned for the con-
sideration of the returns of members from Hardwick, Eastham/ and
several other towns.
Ordered, That Mr. Brown, Doct. Taylor and Col. Sayer, be [a]
committee to wait on the commanding officer of the militia of this
town, to thank him for his polite offer to escort the Congress to the
meeting-house, and to inform him, that, as this Congress are now sit-
ting, the Congress think it needless to withdraw for that purpose : but
will, with the reverend gentlemen of the clergy, attend them to Mrs.
Coolidge's, if they please to escort them thither, when the Congress
adjourns.
[Afleriioon]
Ordered, That Mr. Gill, Doct. Whiting, Mr. Pitts, Mr. Jewett and
Col. Lincoln, be a committee to return the thanks of this Congress to
the Rev. Doct. Langdon, for his excellent sermon delivered to the
Congress in the forenoon, and to desire a copy of it for the press.^
Ordered, That Doct. Taylor, Mr. Pitts and Mr. Greenleaf, be a com-
mittee to consider some method for supplying the soldiers immediately
with advance pay, and also to consider a letter from Gen. Thomas on
that subject.
Resolved, That a copy of the resolve of the last Congress, relative
to providing the army with chaplains, be laid before the reverend gen-
tlemen of the clergy, now in convention, at Watertown.
The order of the day [was] moved for.
Ordered, That Mr. Fisher, Col. Bowers, Col. Gerrish, Mr. Bayley
and Mr. Slead, be a committee to consider the two returns of mem-
bers from Eastham.
The returns of three members from Hardwick, who are to attend
this Congress severally, each two months, was approved of
The committee appointed to consider Gen. Thomas's letter, reported
verbally ; the report was accepted, and ordered to be committed to
(1) A remonstrance was presented against the return of Mr. Amos Knowleg, Jr., one of the
members returned from Eastham, with testimony tending to prove, that he had used expressions re-
flecting on tlie wisdom and fidelity of Congress, and that he entertained sentiments unfavorable
to its policy and measures. These charges wore denied, and the origin attributed to personal or
party hostility by the respondent. The election of the members from Eastham and Williamsburg
was contested, on the ground that the town meetings were not properly notified.
(2) The sermon of Doct. Langdon was from Isaiah i. 26. ^'■And I will restore thy jutla-es as at the
first, and thy counsellors as at the beg-inning ; afterwards thou, shall be called Ute city of righteousness,
the faithful city." The discourse was printed at Cambridge.
1775] THIRD PROVINCIAL CONGRESS. 281
writing, and one copy sent to the camp at Cambridge, and another to
the camp at Roxbury.
Ordirid, That Col. Pahner, Mr. Williams and Deacon Clieever, be
a conunittee to introduce to this Congress a committee from the rev-
erend gentlemen of the clergy, in convention at Watertown, now at
the door.
The committee were accordingly introduced, and informed the Con-
gre.ss that the said convention would be glad of the use of the meeting-
house to-morrow morning, at eight o'clock. Then the said committee
withdrew.
Ordcrrd, That Col. Palmer, Mr. Williams and Deacon Cheever, be
a committee to inform the reverend gentlemen of the convention, that
this Congress comply with their request, and that the committee lay
before the said convention, a copy of the resolve of the last Congress,
respecting chaplains.
Resolved, That Mr. Hastings, who attended the last Congress as
door-keeper, be desired to attend this Congress till further orders.
Ordered, That the papers relative to the fortresses at Ticonderoga,
(fcc, be laid before the Congress.
The papers being read. Resolved, that Mr, Phelps, who was the
bearer of some of them, be introduced to the Congress.
After information from Mr. Phelps, Ordered, that the president, Mr,
Glover, Col. Nicholson, Doct. Taylor, Mr. Edwards, Col. Dwight,
Doct. Wheeler, Mr. Hale and Doct. Whiting, be a committee to take
said papers into consideration, to sit forthwith, and report as soon as
may be.
Ordered, That the Hon. Mr. Spooner, Mr. Hopkins, Mr. Greenleaf,
Capt. Batchelder and Col. Otis, be a committee to consider a letter
from the committee of correspondence of the colony of New Hamp-
shire, to the committee of correspondence of Newburyport.^
The Congress then adjourned to ten o'clock to-morrow morning.
(1) The following letter, from the committee of correspondence of New Hampshire, was received
in Newburvporl ytay 30lli, and immediately forwarded to Congress :
PORTSMOUTH, 29th .May, 1775.
" GEXTLE.MEN : — We \iu\ two provision vessels seized at the mouth of our harbor the last night,
by the Scarborough : and upon application to Capt. Bard ly 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 he says further, those orders arc 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 fair wind, to convoy the two vessels already seized, to Boston,
and are sorry to find ourselves unable to prevent it, as we have our harbor blocked up, by a twenty
gun ship, and have no vessel offeree able to retake them. One reason of our mentioning this cir-
36
282 THIRD PROVINCIAL CONGRESS. [June I,
Thursday, June 1, 1775.
The committee appointed to consider Gen. Thomas's letter, brought
in the following report, which was accepted, and a copy of it ordered
to be sent to the muster master at Cambridge, and another to the mus-
ter master at Roxbury, viz. :
The committee appointed to consider a letter from Gen. Thomas,
relative to immediately paying the army the advance pay, have attend-
ed that service, and beg leave to report, that they have waited on the
receiver general, to know of him how soon he can furnish the muster
masters with the notes proposed for the army ; and were informed by
the receiver general, he now had several hundred notes ready to de-
liver ; and that he had provided all necessary helps, and would make
the greatest despatch possible ; and that he should be able, at least, to
pay off one regiment every day, and perhaps more : and that he would,
from day to day, deliver one half of said notes to the muster master at
Cambridge, and the other half to the muster master at Roxbury.
Ordered, That a copy of the above be sent to the muster masters.
Ordered, That Col. Jones and Mr. Orne, be added to the committee
who were appointed to consider the returns of members from Eastham.
Resolved, That the following members be, and hereby are appoint-
ed, monitors in this Congress, viz. : 1st. Col. Gerrish : 2d. Mr.
Durfee : 3d. Col. Farley : 4th. Doct. Taylor : And that the divis-
ion of the house be as follows, viz. :
First Division : the pews at the right hand of the pulpit, and all
the pews on the west and south part of the meeting-house, from the
aisle that bounds the seats and the body pews :
Second Division : the pews on the left hand of the pulpit, and all
the pews on the north and east part of the house, from the aisle that
bounds the seats and the body pews :
Third Division : all the body pews and seats on the left hand of the
broad aisle :
Fourth Division : all the body pews and seats on the right hand of
the broad aisle.
Resolved, That this Congress will adopt and observe the rules and
orders established by the last Congress.
cumstiinco, and sending an express this nielit witli it, is, bpc.auso we liiive just liriinl Unit yon Imvo
an armed vessel in your port."
" We have ordered two small vessels to cruize of}" and on, and, if possil)le, give tliis iiilelligenro
to all vessels bound to this or any olliet port, and trust you will do the same.
I!y order of the Committee.
Your most humble servant,
H. WENTWORTH, Chairman.'-
To the Committee of Corieapondeiice, JVcwburij.
177;-,.] THIRD PROVINCIAL CONGRESS. 283
(Jrdcnd, Thill Co\. Prescott, Mr. Slead, Col. Barrett, Mr. Thatcher,
and Mr. Partridge, be a committee to consider what number of the
poor of the town of Boston should be sent to the town of Ashby, or
other towns, not mentioned in the schedule annexed to a resolve passed
in the last Congress.
[The committee presented the following report, which was read and
accepted :]
Whereas, the poor of the town of Boston, by a resolve of Congress
passed the first day of May last, are confined to a certain number of
towns and districts in this colony, as appears by a schedule annexed to
said resolve, and some of said poor having relations and connections
in other towns and districts than are mentioned in said schedule, and
being desirous to go and reside in such places, it is, therefore, Re-
solved, that the poor of Boston may be removed into any other town or
district in this colony, where the selectmen of such town or district
shall see fit to receive them, all such towns and districts observing the
rules, regulations and directions given in the resolve aforesaid, and
shall be entitled to the same rewards and privileges as mentioned in
said resolve.
Ordered, That Deacon Fisher, Mr. Spaulding, Mr. Stickney, Mr.
Partridge and Major Perley, be a committee to consider the proposal
of the reverend gentlemen of the clergy, now in convention at Water=
town, [which is as follows :]
To the Hon. Joseph Warren, Esq., President of the Provincial Con-
gress of the Colony of the Massachusetts Bay, S^c. :
Sir : — We, the pastors of the congregational churches of the colo-
ny of the Massachusetts Bay, in our present annual convention, grate-
fully beg leave to express the sense we have of the regard shewn by
the honorable 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 in-
jured and oppressed country, we are not a little relieved, in beholding
the representatives of this people, chosen by their free and unbiassed
suffrages, now met to concert measures for their relief and defence, in
whose wisdom and integrity, imder the smiles of Divine Providence,
we cannot but express our entire confidence.
As it has been found necessary to raise an army for the common
safety, and our brave countrymen have so willingly offered themselves
to this hazardous service, we are not insensible of the vast burden that
their necessary maintenance must [devolve] upon the people. We,
284 THIRD PROVINCIAL CONGRESS. [June 1,
therefore, cannot forbear, upon this occasion, to offer our services to
the public, and to signify our readiness, with the consent of our seve-
ral congregations, 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, which, from the first
settlement of this country, has so remarkably appeared for the preser-
vation of its civil and religious rights.
Samuel Langdon, Moderator.
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
honorable Congress, think it most expedient, that a sufficient number
of persons should be chosen out of their number, 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."
Ordered, That Major Fuller, Col. Cushing and Major Whittemore,
be a committee to inquire how many armourers are already appointed
in the Massachusetts army, and how many more are necessary.
Ordered, That Major Brooks, Capt. Stone and Mr. Crane, be a
committee to consider the letter from the selectmen of the town of
Hopkinton, and that they sit forthwith. ^
The committee appointed to consider the letter from the committee
of correspondence for the colony of New Hampshire, reported, ver-
bally, that it was their opinion, that it would be expedient to forward,
forthwith, a copy of said letter to the committee of correspondence
for the colony of Rhode Island, and another to the colony of Connec-
ticut, and that the several members of the sea port towns, or of the
towns adjacent, should write to the committee of such sea port towns,
informing them of the subject of said letter.
(1) Tliis letter states, that a false alarm having been spread in the tdwn of Ilopkintoa and the
country adjoining, the people were called from their labors, and nuich and U'U'lcss loss of time and
expense incurred ; to prevent a repetition of such alarms, a meeting of the inhabitants was hold,
and a committee of safety, consisting of Gilbert Dench, Samuel Park, Ebenczer Claflin, Samuel
Haydon and Jonathan Hale, appointed, to determine when it should be necessary for the people of
the town to march on any alarm ; and desired the Congress to establish some signal, by which au-
tbiMitic int<'lligenc(' might bo distinguished from false reports.
177.',.] THIRD PROVINCIAL CONGRESS. 285
Ordcnd, That Col. Tlionipi^uu, Col. Frecinaii and Mr. Jeuett, he a
committee to consider a letter from the committee of safety for the
town of Salem, and report.'
The committee on the Easthaui returns, reported, that in their opin-
ion neither of the members were legally chosen ; the report, after de-
bate, was not accepted.
Resolved, That this last vote be reconsidered, and that a recommen-
dation be sent to the town of Eastham, to choose one or more mem-
bers, as to them shall seem meet, to represent them in this Congress.
Afternoon.
The committee appointed to consider the letter from the committee
of safety of the town of Salem, reported; which report was accepted,
and is as follows, viz. :
The committee appointed by the honorable Provincial Congress, to
take into consideration the letter from the committee of safety, and
town clerk, for the town of Salem, respecting the answers of Mr. Ste-
phen Higginson to questions asked him before the House of Commons
of Great Britain, tScc, beg leave to report: that they have critically
examined that matter, and are of opinion that the intentions of said
Higginson, in those answers, were friendly to the inhabitants of Salem
and Marblehead, and to the colonies in general, and that he ought to
be honorably acquitted by this Congress, and recommended to the
favor of the public.
(]) A petition against the fishery hill, having been presented in the House of Commons of Oreat
Britain, in the spring of 1775, setting forth that a great number of innocent persons, particularly in
the island of Nantucket, would be reduced by it to extreme distress, " Mr. Stephen Higginson, a
native of Salem, in New England," says a London paper, " was called to the bar, to prove the al-
legations in the petition. He stated that the colonies of Massachusetts Bay and New Hampshire,
Connecticut and Rhode Island, did not collectively produce sutlicient for the subsistence of their
inhabitants, and that tlioy received considerable from the Carolinas, Virginia, Maryland, Pennsyl-
vania and New York ; that there were then employed in the cod fisheries about 700 vessels, from 15
to 70 tons, which cariiod about 4200 men, and that about one half of that number were employed
on shore in curing the fish ; that al)out 350 vessels from 50 to 180 tons, were employed in conveying
the fish to market, which carried about 3000 men ; that if the cod fisheries should be prohibited,
about 10,000 men must be under the necessity of seeking employment ; and that as the major part
of them would not settle at Halifax, on account of its being a military government, they must either
stay at home and want bread, emigrate to the southward, or go to the French at Miquelon and St.
Pierre ; and as many of the inhabitants at and near Marblehead were Portuguese, Dutch, and other
foreigners, it was not unlikely but they might easily be induced thereto." The above statements
of Mr. Higginson were printed in the Essex Oazette, vol. vii, number 353, and gave offence to
many of the inhabitants of Salem and Marblehead, as being designed to injure the province. Upon
the return of .Mr. Higginson from London, he immediately presented himself before the committee
of safely of Salem, who, after an examination, were entirely satisfied of his innocence and "ood
intention in the matters complained of, and recommended that he wait on the Provincial Conoress,
and obtain the decision of that body to quiet the minds of the people. The communications of
Richard Derby, Esq., chairman of the committee of safety, and of Timothy Pickering, Jr., Esq.,
clerk of tlie town of Salem, presented the^e facts for tite con9idcration of Congress.
286 THIRD PROVINCIAL CONGRESS. [June 1,
Ordered, That the Hon. Mr. Dexter, be directed to inquire of the
receiver general, if he has received the money from the Hon. Mr.
Russell, agreeably to the resolve of the last Congress.
Ordered, That Deacon Bayley, Capt. Holmes and Col. Thompson,
be a committee to draw up a resolve, recommending to the town of
Eastham to choose a new member or members to represent them in
this Congress.
Ordered, That three hundred passes, of the following form, be
printed, 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 such as may accompany him, at all times.
, President.
June 1775.
Hon. Mr. Dexter reported to the Congress, that he had made in-
quiry of Mr. Gardner, the receiver general, as directed, and that the
receiver general informed him he had not seen Mr. Russell since the
order of Congress, respecting his paying the public moneys he has in
his hands to Mr. Gardner.
The committee appointed to consider the letter from the selectmen
of Hopkinton, reported : the report was recommitted, and Mr. Phil-
lips, Mr. Partridge, Col. Richmond and Mr. Sawyer added to the com-
mittee.
Ordered, That Doct. Taylor, Hon. Mr. Dexter and the Hon. Col.
Bowers, be a committee to consider the application made to this Con-
gress by Col. Barrett, in behalf of the Rev. Mr. Emerson, for the use
of one of the horses taken from the regulars, during the absence of
the Hon. Thomas Gushing, Esq., who has Mr. Emerson's horse now
in the public service.
The committee appointed to consider the request of Mr. Emerson,
reported. The report was accepted, and is as follows, viz. :
The committee appointed to consider the recjuest of the Rev. Wil-
liam Emerson of Concord, respecting the use of a horse taken upon the
19th of April last, from one of the regulars, by Mr. Isaac Kittridgc
of Tewksbury, Capt. Nathan Barrett, and Henry Flint of Concord,
be<T leave to report, by way of resolve, that said horse be delivered to
said Euierson, by the person or persons in whosesoever possession he
may be found, he, the said Emerson, paying a reasonable price for
1775.] THIRD PROVINCIAL CONGRESS. 2H7
keeping 5aicl liorso, and Mr. Emer-soii is licrtby perinitled to ke(!|) and
use said horse, till the further order of this Congress.
The committee appointed to consider the j)apers relating to Ticon-
deroga, 6lc., reported a letter to Col. Arnold, another to the Hon,
William Williams, Esq., speaker of the assembly of the colony of
Connecticut, and another to the Provincial Congress of New Hamp-
shire, which were read and accepted, and ordered to be authenticated,
and sent forward, and are as follow, viz. :
L(ttir to Cul. Benedict Arnold:
Siu : — This Congress have received yours of the IDtli and 2:Jd of
May ult., per Capt. Brown and Capt. Phillips, a copy of which has
been sent to New Hampshire ;^ they highly approve of, and take great
satisfaction in the acquisitions you have made at Ticonderoga, Crown
Point, on the lake, &.c. As to the state you are in respecting men,
provision, &c., we have advices from Connecticut and New York, that
ample preparation is making, with the greatest despatch, in those two
colonies, from whence you may depend on being seasonably sup-
plied. They are sorry to meet with repeated requests from you, that
some gentleman be sent to succeed you in command ; they assure you,
that they place the greatest confidence in your fidelity, knowledge,
courage, and good conduct ; and they desire that you, at present, dis-
miss the thoughts of quitting your important command at Ticondero-
ga, Crown Point, Lake Chaiiiplaiii, &c., and you are hereby requested
to continue your command over the forces raised by this colony, posted
at those several places, at least until the colony of New York or Con-
necticut shall take on them the maintaining and commanding the
same agreeably to an order of the Continental Congress.
To Col. Benedict Arnold,
Ticonderoga.
P. S. — We have just received intelligence, by a letter from Gov.
Trumbull, that the general assembly have ordered a thousand men to
march immediately to reenforce the army now at Crown Point, Ticon-
deroga, &c., .also [to send] 500 lbs. powder, and also that each soldier is
furnished with one pound of powder, &,c. The Congress further advise,
that in case your present necessity requires it, you make use of the
.^'160 you found on board the sloop, for the service of this colony, you
accounting for the same to this or some other congress, or house of
(1) These, witli other letters of Col. Arnold, and documents relnting to the capture of Ticonde-
roga, too voliiiniiioii? to be annexed to the text as notes, are inserted in the .Appendix.
28S THIRD PROVINCIAL CONGRESS. [June 1,
representatives of this colony ; and they hereby assure you, that this
colony will repay it, whenever it shall be ordered by the Continental
Congress ; and that you also complete the raising the number of four
hundred men in the pay of this colony, if you judge it necessary.
[ To the House of Assembly of Connecticut :]
Gentlemen : — We gratefully acknowledge the receipt of your favor
of the 27th ult. We fully concur in opinion with you, that maintain-
ing a post at Ticonderoga or Crown Point, is of the utmost import-
ance : therefore, take particular satisfaction, that you have, on this
subject, so early, and repeatedly expressed your minds to the Conti-
nental Congress.
By private intelligence of the 29th ult., sent to Capt. Joseph Trum-
bull, we are informed, that the Provincial Congress of New York, do
not understand the resolve of the Continental Congress, concerning
said fortresses, to extend so far as wholly to dismantle 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 : therefore, in our present distressing situation, we
have postponed sending further assistance to JpCoLU Arnold, especially
since New York have not requested it.
To the Hon. William Williams,
Speaker of the House of Assembly of the Colony of Connecticut.
[ To the Provincial Congress of New Hampshire .•]
Gentlemen: — We send you enclosed, a copy of a letter from Col.
Arnold, commander of the troops at Ticonderoga and Crown Point,
together with a copy of a letter from the speaker of the house of rep-
resentatives for the colony of Connecticut, by which you will be ac-
quainted with the present situation of those fortresses, and the meas-
ures necessary to be taken for securing 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
■ifc'lOO in money, should be raised for the reduction of the place ; and
u ||Captaiii.||
1775] THIRD PROVINCIAL CONGRESS. 289
it is our determination to contribute our full proportion toward secur-
ing the acquisition. By tlie letter from the speaker of the house of
representatives for Connecticut, you will fwul, that that colony have
voted to send immediately to their assistance, four companies, and 500
pounds weight of powder ; and we suppose the troops are on the
marcii there : and we most earnestly request, that you would contrib-
ute, your endeavors, likewise, for the speedy and effectual security of
the aforementioned places, which, considering the importance of the
affair, and the ready disposition which you have discovered for the de-
fence of the common cause, leaves us no room to doubt of your com-
pliance therewith.
To the Provincial Congress of New Hampshire.
Resolved, That the secretary be, and hereby is empowered, to ap-
point some person to assist him in his office.
Adjourned till to-morrow morning, eight o'clock.
Friday, June 2, 1775.
The committee appointed to bring in a resolve recommending to
the town of Eastham to choose one or more meml>ers to represent
them ill this Congress, reported ; the report was accepted, and is as
follows, viz. :
Whereas, this Congress, upon examination, judge that the persons
returned as delegates for Eastham, in the county of Barnstable, were
not legally chosen, and that the allowing either of them a seat in this
house would be attended with many inconveniences ; therefore. Re-
solved, that it be, and it hereby is recommended, to the said town of
Eastham, that they forthwith elect or depute one or more persons, to
serve for, and represent said town, in the Provincial Congress, now
held at the meeting-house in Watertown, to be chosen by such only as
are qualified to vote for representatives in the general assembly, and to
be continued by adjournment, as they shall see cause, until the expira-
tion of six months from the first sitting of this Congress, and no lon-
ger, and to consult, and 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 pos-
terity.
Resolved, Thai ten o'clock, this forenoon, be assigned for the choice
of a chaplain for this Congress.
37
290 THIRD PROVINCIAL CONGRESS. [June 2,
Ordered, That Mr. Fisher, Col. Barrett, Capt. Holmes, Col. Bowers
and Col. Sawyer, be a committee to bring in a resolve for making fur-
ther provision for distributing the poor of Boston to such towns in the
colony as the committee may think convenient.
Ordered, That Col. Gerrish, Mr. Spooner, Mr. Sever, Col. Bowers,
and Mr. Fisher, be a committee to take into consideration the petition
and memorial of the several committees of correspondence for the
county of Worcester, and report.^
The committee appointed to consider the resolve and proposals of
the reverend gentlemen of the clergy, reported ; the report was ac-
cepted, and is as follows, viz. :
Whereas, it is of the greatest importance that our colony army be
furnished with gentlemen to act as chaplains, on whose virtue, firmness
and patriotism they can safely rely ; and whereas, the reverend con-
vention of the clergy of this colony have, most nobly and without re-
ward, tendered their services in their country's cause :
Therefore, Resolved, That the general and field officers be, and they
hereby are empowered and directed, to choose nine gentlemen of the
clergy of this colony, to act as chaplains to said army : provided that
not more than two of them belong to any one county ; and the gene-
ral officers of said army are hereby empowered to determine the regi-
ments to which each chaplain shall be desired to officiate ; and also,
the committee of supplies are hereby directed to make suitable provis-
ion for said chaplains during their continuance in camp.
Ordered, That Mr. Spooner, Col. Richmond and Col. Dwight, be a
committee to take into consideration the expense Capt. Phelps has
been at, in supplying the Massachusetts forces at Ticonderoga, and
report.
Ordered, That Doct. Whiting and Doct. Bailies, be added to the
committee which was appointed by the last Congress, to examine those
persons who might be nominated for surgeons of the Massachusetts
army.
Ordered, That Deacon Bayley, Hon. Joseph Gerrish, Esq., Josiah
Johnson, Esq., Mr. John Hale, Hon. William Sever, Esq., Col. Joseph
Otis, Hon. Jerathmiel Bowers, Col. Cutt, Capt. Stephen Maynard, Col.
Thompson, Mr. Joseph North and Timothy Edwards, Esq., be a com-
mittee to take into consideration the situation and circumstances of
(1) The purpoit of this mcmoiiiil may he infeired from ii resolution of the convention of coiii-
mitteeB of corrospoiidcnco of the county of Worcester, Alay 31, 1775 : "Voted, That a committee
be chosen 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 public purposes, in common with tlie other
members and his constituents."
1775.] THIRD PROVINCIAL CONGRESS. t>01
the sea port towns and islands in this colony, which arc exposed to tlie
excursions and ravages of the enemy, and in particular to consider the
letter of Mr. Stephen Nye to Col. Freeman ; the petition from the
town of Kittery ; the resolve of the List Congress relative to the inva-
sion of the enemy on our sea coasts, &c. ; and a petition from some
of the inhabitants of Deer Island, and sit forthwith, and report as
soon as may be.i
Order of the day moved for.
Ordrrcff, That Mr. Jones, Mr. Bliss and Mr. Toby, be a committee
to receive, sort and count the votes for a chaplain. The committee
having attended that service, reported, that the Rev. Mr. [William]
Gordon was chosen.
Ordered, That Col. Davis, Mr. Wheeler and Major Bliss, be a com-
mittee to wait upon the Rev. Mr. Gordon, informing him that this
Congress have made choice of him to officiate as their chaplain during
its session in this place.
The committee appointed to inquire how many armourers were ap-
pointed, &c., reported, that the committee of safety informed them
that there were thirteen appointed, and several others nominated, and
that the general officers had agreed that thirteen was a sufficient num-
ber, but that they were in want of tools and stock.
Afiernoon.
Ordered, That commissions be given to the officers of Col. Scam-
mell's regiment, except such captains as have already received their
commissions, agreeably to the list by him exhibited.
Ordered, That Col. Prescott, Col. Freeman, Hon. Mr. Spooner, Mr.
Partridge, Col. Cushing, Col. Spaulding and Col. Sayer, be a commit-
tee to consider the petition of Capt. Jacob Gerrish, and seven other
captains in the Massachusetts army.
Ordered, That Col. Richmond l)e, and hereby is appointed, to coun-
tersign the notes, which were ordered to be prepared for the soldiers'
advance pay, in the room of Major Fuller, who declines serving fur-
ther in that business.
Ordered, That Deacon Baker, Major Brooks, Mr. Nichols and Col.
Grout, be added to the committee who were appointed by the last Con-
gress, to draw up some easy and concise method of making salt petre.
(1) All the petitions from the sea port towns, represent, in substance, that the harbors lie open
to the enemy, tliat the lives and property of the inhabitants of the Atlantic coast are exposed to
danger from the incursions of the Britisli troops : that the want of arms and ammunition prevents
prudent preparations for defence ; and some papers contain moving descriptions of alarm and peril
from the approach of the king's war ships, and of suffering and distress from the scanty supply of
food. Such was the general tenor of the memorials mentioned in the text.
292 THIRD PROVINCIAL CONGRESS. [June 2,
. Ordered, That the officers of Col. Gardner's regiment be commis-
sioned agreeably to the list by him exhibited.
Ordered, That Capt. Parker, Capt. Thatcher, Mr. Jewett, Col. Por-
ter and Mr. Singletary, be a committee to consider what is best to be
done with the horses lately taken from Noddle's Island.
The committee appointed to take into consideration the petition of
Capt. Jacob Gerrish and others, reported, verbally, that they think it
expedient that Col. Gerrish be notified to attend said committee, to-
morrow morning, at eight o'clock, at the house of Mr. Learned, in
Watertown, if he sees cause : thereupon,
Ordered, That the same committee be directed to bring in a short
resolve for this purpose.
The committee appointed to consider what is best to be done with
the horses taken from Noddle's Island, reported. The report was ac-
cepted, and is as follows, viz. :
The committee appointed to consider what shall be done with the
horses taken by our forces from Noddle's Island, which belong to our
enemies, beg leave to report : that the same horses be delivered to the
committee of supplies, to be by them used and improved for the bene-
fit of the colony, as they shall think fit, until further order from this
or some future congress, or house of representatives.
Ordered, That Col. Farley, Deacon Baker and Mr. Batchelder, be a
committee to inquire of the committee of safety, what progress has
been made in the raising a regiment for the train.
The committee appointed to bring in a resolve, whereby to notify
Col. Gerrish to appear before said committee to-morrow morning, re-
ported the following, which was read and accepted, and Capt. Thatcher
was desired to carry it to Col. Gerrish this evening. It is as follows,
viz. :
To Col. Samuel Gerrish :
A number of gentlemen have presented a petition to this Congress,
in behalf of themselves and the men they have enlisted, praying that
Capt. Moses Little and Mr. Isaac Smith may be appointed and com-
missioned as two of the field officers over them. Six of the said peti-
tioners are returned by you as your captains, as appears by your return,
and the petition has been committed to a committee, to hear the peti-
tioners and report to the Congress ; and it is, therefore, Ordered, that
the said Col. Samuel Gerrish be notified, and he is hereby notified, to
attend the said committee, at the house of Mr. Learned, in Watertown,
the 3d day of June instant, at eight o'clock in the forenoon.
1775.] THIRD PROVINCIAL CONGRESS. 293
Read and accepted, and Capt. Thatcher was desired to carry this
resolve to Col. Gerrish this eveninfj.
The committee appointed to consider the subject of the letter from
the selectmen of Ilopkinton, again reported. The consideration of
the report was ordered to he put off till to-morrow morning, eleven
o'clock.
The committee appointed to wait on tlie Rev. Mr. Gordon, report-
ed, that they had informed Mr. Gordon that this Congress had ap-
pointed him their chaplain, and that Mr. Gordon told them he would
attend this Congress to-morrow morning.
The committee appointed to consider the expense Mr. Phelps had
been at, in supplying the Massachusetts forces at Ticonderoga, exhib-
ited an account, which they looked upon was not supported by any
vouchers, and therefore submitted the matter to Congress. Ordered,
that the consideration of the same be put off to to-morrow morning.
The Congress then adjourned to nine o'clock to-morrow morning.
Saturday, Juno 3, 1775.
Ordered, That Col. Palmer, Col. Davis, Mr. Glover, Deacon Gould
and Mr. Webster, be a committee to consider a resolve of the commit-
tee of safety, respecting a person in Brookline, who is broke out with
the small pox, and that they sit forthwith.
The committee appointed to consider the situation and circumstan-
ces of the islands and sea coasts, reported :
1st. That the petition of Col. Lithgow be committed to the commit-
tee of supplies :
2d. A resolve on the subject of Mr. Nye's letter, [which is as fol-
lows :]
[Whereas, the forces under the command of general Gage, are fre-
quently plundering and making depredations on the islands and sea
coasts of this province, particularly on the island of Nashawn, and
others adjacent ; whereby, not only individuals, but the public, are
much injured, and our enemies strengthened. Resolved, therefore,
that it be recommended to all those persons occupying the islands or
sea coasts aforesaid, which are exposed to be ravaged or plundered,
and cannot be defended by the inhabitants ; to remove all their hay,
cattle, horses, sheep, &.C., so far into the country, or otherwise dis-
pose of them, that they may be out of the way of our implacable ene-
mies ; also, that it be recommended to the committee of correspon-
dence, in each town and district, or selectmen, where no such commit-
tee is chosen, to take effectual care that this resolve be immediately,
294 THIRD PROVINCIAL CONGRESS. [June 3,
strictly and fully executed, and that all persons who refuse to comply
herewith, be viewed as disposed to furnish our enemies with such un-
removed hay and stock, and shall therefore be held as inimical to the
liberty and rights of this country.]
The committee appointed to consider a resolve of the committee of
safety, reported the following resolve, which was accepted, viz. :
Whereas, a person is now broke out with the small pox, at Brook-
line, on the road between Cambridge and Roxbury, whereby the pub-
lic in general, and the camps in particular, will be greatly endangered,
if said person is suffered to remain in said house :
Therefore, Resolved, That said person be immediately removed to
the house of Ebenezer Smith in Little Cambridge, wherein the small
pox has lately been; and that the selectmen of Brookline are hereby
directed to remove said person to said house, in the most careful man-
ner, at the expense of said town of Brookline ; and the selectmen of
Cambridge are hereby directed to receive said person into said Smith's
house.
Ordered, That Mr. Gerry, Hon. Mr. Spooner, Major Bliss, Hon.
Mr. Sever, Col. Freeman, Col. Farley and Col. Richmond, be a com-
mittee to consider a resolve of the committee of safety, relative to a
reenforcement of the Massachusetts army, for the protection of the
sea coasts, &c. ; and that this committee be directed to confer with
the committee of safety on the subject of it; and that those gentle-
men, who have been appointed and commissioned as general officers, be
invited to the conference.
Also, Resolved, That eight o'clock, on Monday morning next, be
assigned for such conference, to be held at Cambridge, and that the
committee of safety, and the said general officers, be served with a
copy of this resolve.
A number of papers from the committee of safety, respecting Col.
Jonathan Brewer, were read.^
Resolved, That the further consideration of the papers relative to
Col. Jonathan Brewer, be referred to the afternoon, three o'clock.
Aflernoon,
Ordered, That a commission be prepared, and delivered to Col.
John Nixon.
Ordered, That Mr. Gieenleaf, Capt. Bragdon and Mr. Sawyer, be a
(1) The committee of safety charged Col. Brewer with having obtained the men enlisted into the
regiment he had formed, from others corps, by wrong representations ; and with converting private
property to his own use without proper authority.
1775] THIRD PROVINCIAL CONGRESS. '295
committee to consider tlic petition of a luimber of persons of the town
of Dartmouth.'
The committee on the petition of Jacob Gerrish and others, report-
ed verbally : agreeably to which report,
Krso/vrd, That the petition be so far granted, as that the petitioners
be directed to apply to the committee of safety, for a recommendation
to this Congress, to commission Capt. Moses Little as colonel of a
regiment in the Massachusetts army.
Ordered, That Col. Dwight, Hon. Mr. Sever, Col. Farley, Major
Bliss and Mr. Edwards, be a committee to take into consideration a
letter from Col. James Easton, and report.
[Tlic] order of the day [was] moved for.
The papers respecting Col. Brewer were read. After debate.
Moved, That the matter subside ; the question being put, it passed
in the negative. Moved, that the petitioner be admitted on the floor ;
the question was put, and it passed in the negative.
Resolved, That Tuesday next, at eight o'clock, A. M., be assigned
for hearing Col. Jonathan Brewer, on the subject of certain papers
laid before this Congress by order of the committee of safety, and that
the committee of safety, as also Col. Brewer, be served with a copy of
this resolve, and that Col. Brewer be directed to bring with him a re-
turn of the number of men enlisted in his regiment, distinguishing
how many are present at head quarters, and how many are absent.
Agreeably to an order of Congress, a colonel's commission was de-
livered to Col. John Nixon.
The committee on the petition from Dartmouth, reported. The re-
port being amended, was accepted, and is as follows, viz. :
On the petition of David Shepherd and others, from Dartmouth,
representing that uneasiness has arisen on account of said petitioners
fitting out sundry vessels for whaling voyages, and for the West Indies,
Resolved, that the petitioners be informed, that this Congress know of
no objection to their pursuing the above voyage, or any other where
they are willing to risk their interest, provided that the owners and
(1) The petition of David Shepherd and eighteen others, dated Dartmouth, Juno 1, 1775, shows,
" that the subscribers have, at great expense, fitted out some of our vessels for whaling voyages,
and one or two with lumber, &c. for the West Indies, some of whicli are now ready for sea,
being advised thereto by the committee of correspondence of the town, and not being restricted
therefrom by the Continental or Provincial Congress, the advice and directions of whom we arc de-
termined to abide by in this affair ; notwithstanding which, some people manifest uneasiness that we
should send our vessels to sea, and will not be satisfied unless we have the advice of the honorable
the Provincial Congress, now sitting, thereon, which will quiet the minds of the people, and give
them and us satisfaction relative to the matter. Therefore, the petitioners pray advice and direc-
tion."
296 THIRD PROVINCIAL CONGRESS. [June 3,
masters of such vessels strictly adhere to the resolutions of the Conti-
nental Congress.
Ordered, That a messenger be forthwith sent to the receiver general
with the following letter, viz. :
Sir : — The absolute necessity of paying the colony forces immedi-
ately, having been duly considered by this Congress, and not being
able to make necessary payments, 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 purposes.
P. S. — The Congress is just informed, that a gentleman at Salem
has .£500, which he is willing to lend the province ; which would be
of the greatest importance to pay immediately to the soldiers, and
might prevent the greatest mischiefs.
Resolved, That Mr. Phillips be desired to repair to Salem to Mr.
Becket, desiring him to bring, or send, the money he has offered to
lend the province, to this place, to-morrow morning, and take a note
therefor from the receiver general.
Ordered, That Capt. Stone be directed to apply to Mr. Revere, de-
siring him to attend the business of stamping the notes for the sol-
diers, all the ensuing night, if he can, and to finish them with the
greatest despatch possible ; and also to despatch a messenger to Major
Fuller, desiring him to attend to countersign them.
Adjourned to eight o'clock to-morrow morning.
Sunday, June 4, 1775.
Resolved, That Col. Henshaw be admitted to give an account of his
proceedings at Connecticut, where he was sent by the last Congress
on the affair of Ticonderoga.
Resolved, That Col. Asa Whitcomb be directed to pay the advance
pay to those companies of Col. Patterson's regiment, who came from
the county of Berkshire, out of the first money he may receive from
the receiver general.
Resolved, That Col. Lemuel Robinson be directed to pay the ad-
vance pay to the three companies of Col. [Fellow's] regiment, which
came from the county of Berkshire, out of the first mojiey he may re-
ceive from the receiver general. '
Ordered, That the papers exhibited by Col. Henshaw be put into
1775] THIRD PROVINCIAL CONGRESS. 297
the hands of the committee of safety, and the committee of this Con-
gress, who are appointed to confer with thetn to-morrow morning.
Ordered, Tiiat Mr. Sullivan, Hon. Mr. Spooner and Col. Prescott,
be a committee to inquire what number of colony notes are struck off,
how many are signed, whether the pre.ss is now going, and to make a
thorough inquiry in this respect, and report at the adjournment.
Ordered, That Doct. Whiting be appointed to employ a messenger,
to be sent to Major Fuller, directing his attendance to the service of
countersigning the notes, immediately.^
Ordered, That Capt. Bragdon and Col. Thompson, be appointed to
attend Mr. Revere whilst he is striking off the notes for advance pay
to the soldiers, night and day, ['alternately,] till they are all struck off.
The committee on Col. Easton's letter, reported, that it was their
opinion it would be best to commit it to the committee who were ap-
pointed to confer with the committee of safety, to-morrow morning :
it was accordingly given to the Hon. Mr. Spooner.
Ordered, That the key and billet delivered to this Congress, from
Major Fuller, by Capt. Stone, be put into the hands of the committee
who were appointed to make inquiry respecting the colony notes.
Adjourned to twelve o'clock.
[Noon.]
Met at twelve o'clock.
Ordered, That Col. Richmond be excused from serving on the com-
mittee who were appointed to confer with the committee of safety, be-
ing engaged in countersigning the notes, and that Col. Gerrish attend
that service in his stead.
Adjourned to four o'clock, afternoon.
[Aflernoon.]
Met at four o'clock, and adjourned to Monday morning, eight
o'clock.
Monday, June 5, 1775.
A petition from Truro for powder was read.
Resolved, That the petitioners have leave to withdraw their petition.
Ordered, That Col. Foster be, and hereby is appointed, to counter-
sign the §20, §14, and 86 notes.
Ordered,'V\\dX Mr. Pickering, Mr. Phillips and Mr. [''Goodwin,] be ap-
pointed to number the notes which are preparing for advance pay for
the soldiers. Mr. Pickering, to number the sheets struck off on the
first plate; Mr. Phillips, those of the second; and Mr. [Kjoodwin,] those
of the third.
a [alternatively.] b [Gooding.]
(1) Major Fuller was detained, by sickness, from attendance on the committee.
38
298 THIRD PROVINCIAL CONGRESS. [June 5,
Ordered, That the letter from Gov, Trumbull, just received and
read, be committed to the committee of safety, and the committee ap-
pointed to confer with them.
Ordered, That Col. Foster bring in a resolve, appointing some per-
sons to examine and inspect the mineral earth, brought by him to this
place.
Col. Foster brought in a resolve accordingly, which was accepted,
and is as follows :
Resolved, That Doct. Whiting, Deacon Baker and Col. Grout, be a
committee to inquire into the nature and quality of the said mineral
earth, and in such inquiry to consult the Hon. Joseph Warren, Esq.
and Mr. Professor Sewall, and such other persons as they may think
proper, and report to this Congress as soon as may be.
Ordered, That Mr. Sullivan, Mr. Greenleaf, Mr. Partridge, Col.
Gushing and Mr. Edwards, be a committee to hold a conference with
the general officers of the American army, and to inquire of them
whether there is any thing this Congress can do to preserve the health
of said army.
A petition, signed by Phillip Hubbard and others, was read, and or-
dered to lie on the table.
Ordered, That Mr. Sullivan, Col. Gushing, Capt. Holmes, Mr. Part-
ridtre and Mr. Currier, be a committee to consider what order it would
be proper for this Congress to take relative to any letters which have
been or may be intercepted.
Ordered, That Mr. Edwards, and Mr. Stone of Lexington, be ap-
pointed to inquire what is become of a letter said to be sent by the
Stockbridge Indians to this Congress.
The committee appointed to bring in a resolve respecting intercept-
ed letters, reported ; the report was read and accepted, and is as fol-
lows, viz. :
Whereas, it has been represented to this Congress, that several let-
ters, and packets of letters, of public concernment, wrote to and by
the avowed enemies of this country, have fallen into the hands of sun-
dry persons in this colony ; and, whereas, it appears absolutely neces-
sary that all such letters should be immediately laid before this Con-
gress, for their consideration ; therefore, Resolved, that all persons who
now are, or shall hereafter be possessed of such letters, shall lay them,
as soon as may be, before this, or some future Congress, for their ad-
visement thereon.
Afternoon.
Resolved, That the resolve which passed this Congress, relative to
accommodating the Rev. Mr. Emerson with one of the horses taken
1775.] THIRD PROVINCIAL CONGRESS. -299
from the regulars, be so far reconsidered, as that it he recommitted,
for a plainer description of the horse intended to be delivered to him ;
and that Col. Batchelder and Col. Dwight be added to the committee,
in the room of Doct. Taylor and Col. Bowers, who are absent.
Ordered, That commissions be delivered to the officers of Col.
Nixon's regiment, agreeably to the list by him exhibited.
Ordered, That Mr. Fisher, Col. Barrett, Capt. Holmes, Col. Bowers
and Col. Sawyer, be a committee to consider the proposal of Capt.
Foster, relative to removing the poor, and the goods of the poor, of
the town of Boston, into the country.
Resolved, That the committee of supplies be directed to lay before
this Congress, in writing, an account of their proceedings, with respect
to the memorandum of Gen. Ward for sundry military stores, commit-
ted to them by the last Congress.
Ordered, That Capt. Stone, Capt. Smith and Col. Goodrich, be a
committee to inquire of the committee of supplies, if they have sent
to New York for any of the powder, which, it is said, is lately arrived
there.
Ordered, That Mr. Fisher, Capt. Holmes, Mr. Sawyer, Col. Grout
and Mr, Webster, be a committee to bring in a resolve in addition to
the resolve of the last Congress, respecting the poor of the town of
Boston, passed the first ultimo, which shall extend to such of the poor
of said town, sufferers by the Boston port bill, as were removed out of
that town before the date of said resolve.
The committee appointed to inquire into the nature and qualities of
the mineral earth, brought by Col. Foster from Brookfield, reported,
that it was their opinion, and the opinion of those whom they con-
versed with thereon, that it contains a matter useful for the production
of nitre, but that there was too small a quantity for an experiment :
Whereupon, Ordered, That this committee be directed to appoint
some suitable person, to repair to Brookfield, to make some experi-
ment with the mineral earth, which is said to be there in large quanti-
ties.
Ordered, That the Hon. Mr. Dexter, Col. Otis, Col. Porter, Capt.
Stone of Oakham, and Capt. Stone of Framingham, be a committee
to bring in a resolve for the purpose of giving a currency to the bills
of credit of all the governments on the continent.
The committee appointed to bring in a resolve descriptive of the
horse designed for Mr. Emerson, reported ; the report was read and
accepted, and is as follows :
Whereas, in a resolve of this Congress, passed the 1st instant, the
300 THIRD PROVINCIAL CONGRESS. [June 5,
horse appointed for the use of the Rev. Mr. Emerson of Concord, was
not so fully described as thai Thomas Read of Woburn, the keeper of
said horse, could, with safety, deliver him to said Emerson ; therefore.
Resolved, that said Read be, and hereby is directed, to deliver a cer-
tain sorrel horse, that was taken by the guards, at Roxbury, from an
officer of general Gage's troops, on the 20th of April last, to said
Emerson, he paying a reasonable sum for the keeping said horse, and
said Mr. Emerson is hereby permitted to keep and use said horse, un-
til the further order of this Congress.
Ordered, That Col. Porter, Capt. Stone of Oakham, Capt. Part-
ridge, Col. Otis and Deacon Baker, be a committee to consider the
letter from Mr. Gridley to the committee of safety, and to confer with
them thereon, and also on the state of the artillery in general.
Resolved, That the four prisoners brought to this Congress by ser-
geant John Parker, be committed to the custody of the guard, which
is appointed to guard the public stores in Watertown, till further or-
ders of this Congress ; and that the commissary be directed to provide
what provisions they may stand in need of, till to-morrow morning.
Ordered, That Mr. Sullivan bring in a resolve, for the purpose of
discouraging and preventing persons from taking any notes or bills of
credit, of this, or the other colonies, under the value specified therein.
The committee appointed to bring in a resolve for giving currency
to the notes of the other governments, reported : the report was or-
dered to lie on the table, till Mr. Sullivan had brought in the resolve
for which he was just now appointed.
Ordered, That Col. Cutt, Capt. Parker, Mr. Page, Capt. Morton
and Capt. Stone, of Oakham, be a committee to make some establish-
ment for an allowance of provisions for the soldiers of the Massachu-
setts army.
Resolved, That Friday next, at three o'clock, P. M., be assigned for
the consideration of the report of Col. Thompson, relative to his pro-
ceedings at Kennebeck.
Adjourned to eight o'clock to-morrow morning.
TuESDAT, June 6, 1775.
Ordered, That Mr. Sullivan, Col. Gushing, Mr. Partridge, Mr.
Greenleaf and Col. Glover, be a committee, to devise some means
whereby the army may be more regularly supplied with the necessaries
procured for it by the colony.
[The] order of the day [was] moved for.
Resolved, That those members who are out upon committees be
directed to attend.
1775.] THIRD PROVINCIAL CONGRESS. 301
Resolrrrl, That three o'clock, P. M., be assigned for the choice of a
vice president.
Ordircd, TJiat Col. Thompson, Major Brooks and Col. Cutt, be a
committee to inquire into the circumstances of bringing the four pris-
oners to this place yesterday.
Moved, That the Congress take some order at this time relative to
the prisoners : the question being put, it passed in the negative.
The papers respecting Col. Brewer were read, and Col. Brewer was
then admitted, and, on his request, Krso/vrd, that Capt. Edwards, Capt.
Butler, Lieut. Tuckerman, Col. Buckminster, Mr. Cudworth, Thomas
Withington and Capt. Gray, be admitted on the floor of this house, as
['witnesses] in the cause.
The complaint of the committee of safety being read, and Col.
Brewer having had leave of making his defence, he was fully heard
therein, as were also the witnesses by him produced, the galleries being
first opened for any who were inclined to hear the cause.
Col. Brewer, having offered what he saw fit, withdrew with his wit-
nesses, and the galleries being cleared, Resolved, that the further con-
sideration of this matter be referred to the afternoon.
The committee appointed to bring in a resolve for giving currency
to the bills of credit of the other governments, reported : the report
was ordered to lie upon the table till the afternoon.
[Afternoon.]
Voted, That the resolve, which passed in the forenoon, for choosing
a vice president, be reconsidered.
The Congress presumed] the consideration of the case of Mr.
Brewer; and, after a long and full debate, it was Moved, that the
question be put whether the president should be directed to deliver a
commission to Mr. Brewer, as colonel of a regiment in the Massachu-
setts army, and it passed in the negative : the number of members
present being 150, and but 70 for the question.
Mr. Gushing informed the Congress, that Mr. Benjamin Edwards,
on hearing, at the door of this house, of the determination of the Con-
gress respecting Mr. Brewer, made use of the following expression,
viz.: " By God, if this province is to be governed in this manner, it is
time for us to look out, and 'tis all owing to the committee of safety, a
pack of sappy-head-fellows. I know three of them myself" Where-
upon, Resolved, that Mr. Edwards be directed to attend this house to
make answer to the above charge. Mr. Edwards being called in, and
a [evidence.] b [reasBumsd.]
302 THIRD PROVINCIAL CONGRESS. [June 6,
having heard the charge alleged against him, it was Resolved, that Mr.
Edwards have leave to withdraw, and that he be directed to attend this
Conorress to-morrow morning, at ten o'clock.
The petition of Major Baldwin, ^ being read and considered, it is
thereupon Ordered, that the Rev. president Langdon be requested to
furnish Major Baldwin, out of the college apparatus, with [such] instru-
ments as he stands in need of, to perform the public services therein
mentioned, he giving his receipt therefor, to return the same in good
order, as soon as the said services shall be performed.
A resolve of the committee of safety, relative to the [^admission] of
slaves into the army was read, and ordered to lie on the table for fur-
ther consideration.
The committee appointed to bring in an additional resolve, relative
to making provision for the poor of Boston, reported : the report was
read, amended and accepted, and ordered to be printed in the Cam-
bridge, Watertown and Worcester papers ; and is as follows :
Whereas, the provision already made for the removal of the poor of
Boston, suffering by the cruel hand of arbitrary power, has not an-
swered the salutary purposes intended, and it becomes necessary that
further provision be made, therefore. Resolved, that such suffering poor
shall be allowed to remove into any town or district in the colony,
other than such towns or districts as are already ordered to provide for
and receive the number of said poor to them assigned ; and every town
and district in the colony, that shall receive and provide necessary
support for such suffering poor, shall be indemnified, in every respect,
as fully as any other town or district in the colony, provided they ob-
serve and comply with directions already given relative to said poor.
And, whereas, in the present distressed circumstances and confusion of
the town of Boston, some of said poor have or may remove out of said
town without proper certificates from the committee of donations, and
the town to which such persons remove, may refuse to receive them
for want of the same ; Resolved, that it be recommended to the select-
men of the several towns and districts in this colony to which such
persons may remove, that such provision be made, as is necessary to
prevent their suffering, until such certificate can be procured ; and
such town or district shall be indemnified, as before provided, they
observing the directions given in the resolve passed by the last Con-
a [inadmissioii.]
(1) The petition of Loammi Baldwin represented, that Gen. Ward had approved of a proposal for
taking surveys of the ground between the camp of the Massachusetts army and the posts of the
British troops, and requested the loan of mathematical instruments from the apparatus of Harvard
College, to be used in the execution of this service.
1775] THIRD PROVINCIAL CONGRESS. 303
gress relative to said poor ; and such persons shall be considered as
part of their assiirnment. And, whereas, it is found extremely difficult
for the committees at Charlestown and Roxbury to remove said poor
to the several towns and districts to which they are destined, for want
of teams to go such a distance as is necessary in many cases, it is
further recommended to the selectmen of each town and district in this
colony, that they assist in removing said poor, upon every necessary
occasion, when it is in their power, to the several places of their as-
signment, keeping a particular account of their trouble and expense,
and the names of the persons they assisted, and they shall be paid in
manner as before provided. And the committees at Charlestown and
Roxbury, who were appointed by this Congress to make provision for
such poor as might come out of the town of Boston, are desired to
procure a list of said poor from the committee of donations for future
use : and also, to take the advantage of the teams that may come from
the westward, for the removal of said poor by every opportunity in their
power.
Ordered, That the committee appointed to inquire into the circum-
stances of bringing four prisoners from Cambridge, be directed to make
such provision for them as is necessary, till further orders from this
Congress, and that Mr. Robinson be added to the committee, and that
said committee report what they think would be best to be done with
them.
Adjourned to Wednesday morning, eight o'clock.
Wednesday, June 7, 1775.
Ordered, That Mr. Sullivan, Col. Parker, Mr. Webster, Major Ful-
ler and Col. Prescott, be a committee to wait on General Ward, re-
questing him to exhibit to this Congress a return of the number of men
in the Massachusetts army, and that Mr. Sullivan, Doct. Holten and
Mr. Cushing be a committee, to bring in a resolve for this purpose.
The committee appointed to consider what is best to be done with
the four prisoners brought from Dartmouth, via Cambridge, reported :
the report was recommitted.
A petition from the inhabitants of Machias was read and committed
to Mr. Batchelder, Col. Otis, Mr. Nichols, Mr Lothrop and Mr. Web-
ster, to consider thereon and report.^
(1) The following is the petition montioncd in the text. It was subscribed by Jonas Longfellow
and thirty-seven other citizens.
To the Honorable Congress nf the Atassacliicsetts Bay .-
"GENTLEMEN: — With the highest satisfaction, we now consider you as the guardians of this
304 THIRD PROVINCIAL CONGRESS. [June 7,
The committee appointed to inquire what is become of the original
letter from the Stockbridge Indians, reported, that they think it proba-
ble, from what they have on inquiry heard, that it is in the hands of
the Hon. Mr. Hancock.
The committee appointed to consider of Col. Gridley's letter to the
committee of safety, beg leave to report in part, that an ordnance store-
keeper be immediately appointed, and recommend that Major Nathaniel
Barber be appointed to that employment, and beg leave to sit again, to
report a proper establishment, as also to report what further ['steps}
are necessary to be taken as requested in Col. Gridley's letter.
Ordered, That commissions be delivered to the lieutenants and en-
signs of Col. Mansfield's regiment, agreeably to the list by him exhib-
ited.
Ordered, That Mr. Edwards, Col. Porter, Doct. Whiting, Mr.
Wheeler and Mr. Goodridge, be a committee to consider the letters
from the Stockbridge Indians, and report.
extensive and wealthy province, and relying on your wisdom, the wisdom of the Continental Con-
gress, 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 tyranny, which were forming for us, and from
servitude equal to Egyptian bondage."
"As a part, therefore, of your charge, we, the distressed inhabita.nts 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 lil)erty ; but this we can truly affirm, that we
have done our utmost to encourage and strengthen the hands 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 risque all that is dear to them on earth, when called, in
support of those precious privileges which God [gave,] and our venerable ancestors, as a most in-
valuable legacy, have handed down to us."
" We must now inform your honors, that the inhabitants of this place exceed one hundred fam-
ilies, some of wliich are very numerous, and that divine Providence has cut off all our usual re-
sources. 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 carrying on our business. Our laborers are dismissed ; some of our
mills stand still ; almost all our 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
impervious, and vessels we have none."
" To you, therefore, honored gentlemen, we humbly apply for relief. You are our last, our only
resource, and, permit us again to say, you are our guardians, and we rejoice and glory in being sub-
ject [to youj. Pardon our importunity. We cannot take a denial, for, under God, you are all our
dependance, and if you neglect us, wo are ruined. Save, dear sirs, one of your most flourishing
settlements from famine, and all its horrors. We ask not for charity ; we ask for a supply, to be
put into the hands of Messrs. Smith and Stillman, or any other person or persons your wisdom may
point out, who shall obligate themselves to pay the whole amount on demand in lumber, the only
staple of our country."
" That God may long preserve you, and make you happily instrumental in his hand, in bestowing
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."
" Machias, May 25, 1775."
a [stores.]
1775.] THIRD PROVINCIAL CONGRESS. 305
A petition from Col. Brewer, and another from several nominal caj)-
tains under liini, were read and ordered to lie on the tahle.
Two resolves from the Continental Contrress were read, and ordered
to be printed in hand bills, and dispersed throughout the colony.
Col. Porter, Col. Tyng and Mr. Jewett, were appointed a committee
to prepare a resolve for the purpose of carrying into execution the said
resolves.
Resolved, That Mr. Edwards be called in, and admonished by the
president : which was done accordingly.
Orel) red, That commissions be delivered to Col. Fellowes and the
officers of his regiment, agreeably to the list exhibited by his lieutenant
colonel.
The committee appointed to bring in a resolve, expressive of the
duty of the committee who were appointed this day to wait on General
Ward, reported. The report was read and accepted, and is as follows,
viz.:
Ordered, That Mr. Sullivan, Col. Parks, Mr. Webster, Major Fuller
and Col. Prescott, be a committee to wait on the hon. general Ward,
and hold a conference with him on the state of the army, and to desire
him to make a return, as soon as may be, to this Congress, of the
number and equipments of the troops raised by this colony, and now
in the camps at Cambridge and Roxbury, and stationed elsewhere, that
due advisement be had thereon.
The Hon. Mr. Spooner, Hon. Mr. Sever, Hon. Col. Bowers, af>-
pointed to consider a memorial from the convention of Worcester,
being absent. Ordered, that the Hon. Mr. Dexter, Col. Dwight, and
Capt. Stone, be appointed in their stead.
A memorial from the selectmen of the town of Salem was read, and
committed to Col. Glover, Doct. Taylor and Mr. Wheeler.
The report of the committee appointed to bring in a resolve for giv-
ing currency to the bills of credit of the other governments, was read
and recommitted.
Ordered, That Mr. Orne, Col. Porter and Mr. Whittemore, be a
committee to consider the petition of Benjamin Ames, and seven other
companies of Col. Fry's regiment, and report.
The committee on the petition of the inhabitants of Machias report-
ed. The report was ordered to lie upon the table for further consider-
ation.
[Afternoon.]
Ordered, That Col. Warren, Hon. Mr. Dexter, Col. Gerrish, Col.
Otis and Col. Farley, be a committee to confer with the two gentlemen,
39
306 THIRD PROVINCIAL CONGRESS. [June 7,
members of the Congress of New Hampshire, who have brought a let-
ter from that Congress to this.
Resolved, That to-morrow, four o'clock, P. M., be assigned for the
choice of two gentlemen to act as major generals in the Massachusetts
army.
The report of the committee on the letter from Hopkinton was read :
the consideration of it was put off to five o'clock this afternoon.
On the representation of the town clerk of Lunenburg, in his letter
to Doct. Taylor, respecting their town's stock of powder, &c.. Resolved,
that that town be excused from delivering out of their stock any more
than one half barrel ; the resolve of the former Congress, directing the
selectmen of said town to deliver two [barrels], to the order of the
committee of supplies, notwithstanding.
Ordered, That Mr. Orne and Mr. Vose, be of the committee ap-
pointed to collect the letters of the late Governor Hutchinson, in the
room of Doct. Perkins and Mr. Ellis, who are absent.
The committee appointed to inquire into the circumstances of the
four prisoners, reported. The report was amended and accepted, and
is as follows :
[The committee appointed to take into consideration the circum-
stances of four prisoners brought to this Congress on the second day
of June instant, said to be taken at Dartmouth, since the nineteenth of
April last, beg leave to report : that it is the opinion of this committee,
that the said four prisoners, viz. : Richard Luckus, mate of the ship
Falcon, John Dunkinson, surgeon's mate, Jonathan Lee and Robert
Caddy, be sent to Concord, to the care of the selectmen of said town,
to be by them secured and provided for, agreeably to their rank, at the
expense of this colony, until they receive some further order, from this
or some other Congress or house of representatives of this colony.]
The committee appointed to confer with the gentlemen from the
New Hampshire Congress, reported, verbally ; whereupon, Ordered,
that said committee be directed to reduce their report to writing.
The report of the committee on the petition from the inhabitants of
Machias, being again read, was accepted, and is as follows, viz. :
The committee appointed to consider the petition of the inhabitants
of Machias, beg leave to report, that it be recommended by this Con-
gress to the committee of correspondence of the town of Salem, or to
the like committees of any other towns within this province, to supply
Messrs. Gardner & Smith, of said Machias, for the present relief of
the said inhabitants, with the following articles, viz. : one hundred
bushels of indian corn : ten barrels of pork and beef; one cask of mo-
1775] THIRD PROVINCIAL CONGRESS. Ml
lasses ; and one cask of rice ; and take, in return lor the same, wood,
or such other payment as the said Gardner and Smith may be able to
make : and in case they, or their constituents, the above said inhabi-
tants, should not make satisfaction for the same in a reasonable time,
it shall be allowed and paid out of the public treasury of this province,
and the said inhabitants shall refund the same as soon as nriay be.
Your committee further report, that a recommendation go from this
Congress to the governor and company of the colony of Connecticut,
to suffer the inhabitants of the eastern parts of this colony, to purcha.se
and carry out of said colony of Connecticut, such provisions as their
necessitous circumstances may require.
The committee appointed to confer with the gentlemen from New
Hampshire, having reduced their report to writing, the same was read
and accepted, and is as follows, viz :
Rt'solved, That an application be made by this Congress to the Con-
tinental Congress, desiring them to take such measures as to them
shall appear proper, to quiet and conciliate the minds of the inhabitants
of Canada, and the several tribes of Indians adjacent to these colonies,
and prevent any unffivorable apprehensions, from the military prepara-
tions of the several colonies in America, and that the other three New
England colonies, with the colony of New York, be desired to join in
such an application.
Resolved, That letters be immediately written to the colonies of Con-
necticut, Rhode Island and New Hampshire, desiring them, severally,
to appoint committees, to meet a committee appointed by this Con-
gress, at the town of Worcester, in this colony, on Wednesday, the
28th day of June current, in order to settle and determine the number
of men to be raised on the present emergency, by each of the New
England colonies ; and likewise to determine where they shall be sta-
tioned and employed.!
(1) The resolutions were founded on propositions of the Provincial Congress of New Hampshire,
communicated hy delegates attending on the assembly of Massachusetts, and expressed in the fol-
lowing letter :
In Provincial Congress, at Ezeter, June 3, 1775.
" GENTLEMEN : — Having undoubted evidence of the attempts of the British ministry to engage
the Canadians and savages in their interest, in the present controversy with America, 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 people more especially exposed in the
frontiers ; and accordingly have resolved to send a number of troops as soon as may be ; three com-
panies, for the present, to be employed where and in such manner as may best answer that import-
ant end.
" We thought it expedient to give you the earliest intelligence of what we have done in this
way, earnestly praying, and nothing doubting, but that you will concur in such measures, as, in
your wisdom, you shall judge reasonable and necessary for the defence and safety of the back set-
tlements, for whom both you and we must very sensibly feel.
308 THIRD PROVINCIAL CONGRESS. [June 7,
Whereupon, Ordered, that the president, Hon. Mr. Sever, and the
Hon. Mr. Dexter, be a committee, to prepare an application to the
Continental Congress, and a letter to each of the colonies of Connecti-
cut, Rhode Island and New Hampshire, and a letter to New York,
agreeably to the foregoing resolve.
Resolved, That to-morrow, 5 o'clock, P. M., be assigned for the
choice of three members of this Congress, as a committee, to meet
committees from the colonies of Connecticut, Rhode Island and New
Hampshire, agreeably to the foregoing resolve.
The committee appointed to confer with the committee of safety, on
the subject of their resolve relative to a reinforcement of the army, re-
ported, [as follows :]
[The committee appointed to consider a resolve of the committee of
safety, of the 2d instant, relative to a reinforcement of the Massachu-
setts army, have attended that service, and having, agreeably to the
order of Congress, conferred with the committee of safety and general
officers upon the subject matter of the resolves, beg leave, upon mature
deliberation, to report, that it appears to the committee inexpedient
and unnecessary for this colony to augment, at present, the forces
already voted by it to be established for the defence of this and the
other American colonies. Elbridge Gerry, Chairman.']
Whereupon, Resolved, That to-morrow, nine oclock, be assigned
for the consideration of the said report, and that the committee of
safety, the committee of supplies, and the several committees for this
Congress, be notified of this assignment, and be desired to attend at
that time, if they can with conveniency.
Ordered, That the Hon. Col. Warren, Mr. Pitts, Mr. Gerry, the
president. Col. Freeman, Mr. Pickering, Mr. Batchelder, Hon. Mr.
Dexter and Mr. Greenleaf, be a committee,. to consider the expediency
of establishing a number of small armed vessels, to cruise on our sea
" We furthermore think it suitable, just to suggest, that we have some apprehensions, lest our
military manoeuvres in the frontiers, should raise a jealousy in the minds of the Canadians, and
awaken their fears of direct intentions of hostilities against them. We should give them the most
positive assurances upon this head, tliat we desire nothing more than our own security ; and that it
is our most hearty wish to remain in 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 committee 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, with the other New England colonies, and New York, that
this negotiation might answer the most effectual purpose. By order of Congress.
I am your most olicdicnt, humble servant,
MATTHEW THORNTON, President."
To the Hon. Provincial Congress of the Massachusetts Bay.
1775.] THIRD PROVINCIAL CONGRESS. :{09
coasts, for the protection of our trade, and the annoyance of our ene-
mies : and that the members be enjoined, by order of Congress, to
observe secrecy in this matter.
Ordircd, Tiiat Mr. Sullivan, Col. Porter, Hon. Mr. Sever, Mr.
Greenleaf and Mr. Partridge, be a committee to consider at large on
some measure for [*connnissioning] the officers of the army.
Ordered, That the secretary be directed to serve General Ward with
a list of the officers of the army, commissioned by this Congress.
Adjourned to nine o'clock to-morrow morning.
Thursdat, June 8, 1775.
An account of the taking a sloop which sailed from Boston for An-
napolis for hay and other stores for the use of the army at Boston, from
the committee of the town of Arundel, ^ was read, as also several letters
which were found on board said sloop. Whereupon,
Resolved, That the thanks of this Congress be given to said commit-
tee for their care and judicious conduct in this affair.
The order of the day [was] moved for.
Resolved, That this Congress will resolve itself into a committee of
the whole house, which was done accordingly.
The committee of the whole house, by Col. Warren, their chairman
reported, that the committee have not sufficient time to deliberate on a
matter of such importance, and therefore desire leave to sit again ;
which report was accepted by the Congress.
Afternoon,
The committee of the house reported, that it was the opinion of said
committee, that the report of the committee, who were appointed to
confer with the committee of safety, on the augmentation of the army,
be accepted ; which report was accordingly accepted by this Congress.
Ordered, That a commission be delivered to Thomas Poor, Esq., as
major of a regiment under the command of Col. Fry.
' a [commissionating.]
(1) The committee of Arundel state, that the sloop Polly, belonging to that town, with Ephraim
Perkins, master, while returning from a coasting voyage to Plymouth, was seized hy a British arm-
ed vessel, carried into Boston harbor, and there detained. The cargo was taken into the custody of
General Gage, and the owner obtained payment of the original cost of the articles. A proposition
was made to Mr. Perkins, to enter into the king's service, and accepted, as affordin" means of
escape. Tlie sloop was chartered for VV'indsor, in Nova Scotia, to receive hay and grain for the
supply of the troops, and went out with Josiah Jones surpercargo, and Jonathan Hicks passen-
ger. The master sailed directly for Arundel, where he arrived on the 2d of June, and surrendered
his companions as prisoners. The papers transmitted to Congress, were the charter party, orders,
instructions, and letters subscribed by Major William Shiireff, deputy quarter master general, re-
lating to the objects and business of the voyage.
310 THIRD PROVINCIAL CONGRESS. [June 8,
Resolved, That the choice of two major generals be deferred to four
o'clock, to-morrow afternoon.
Ordered, That the committee appointed to consider the expediency
of establishing several small armed vessels, sit forthwith.
The committee appointed to consider on some measures for commis-
sioning the officers of the army, reported the following resolve, which
was read and accepted, and an hundred of them ordered to be printed,
and dispersed among the army. It is as follows, viz. :
Whereas, it is necessary to have, as soon as may be, a return of the
number and equipments of the forces raised by this colony; and where-
as, it is of the utmost importance that such returns should be consistent
with the strictest truth : it is therefore Resolved, that if any officer now
commissioned in the forces aforesaid, or that shall hereafter be com-
missioned therein, shall, wittingly and willingly, after his being so
commissioned, make any false return of the numbers or equipments of
the men under his command, and shall be thereof convicted before
this, or any future Congress of this colony, or before a general court
martial of the army raised by this colony, such officer shall be immedi-
ately cashiered. And every person now under nomination, or that
shall hereafter be nominated to any office in said forces, that shall,
wittingly and willingly, make such false return, shall be deemed inca-
pable of holding any commission or command in the forces aforesaid,
until the last day of December next.
The petition of Col. Henshaw was read, and committed to the com-
mittee who were appointed to consider on some measure for commis-
sioning the officers of the army.
Resolved, That the choice of three delegates to meet delegates from
the other colonies in New England, at Worcester, be put off to ten
o'clock, to-morrow morning.
Ordered, That Mr. Cushing of Hanover, Capt. Stone of Oakham,
and Dummer Jewett, Esq., be a committee to take into consideration
a petition from the committees of correspondence for the county of
Cumberland, and that they sit forthwith.
Ordered, That Major Bliss, Major Brooks and Mr. Sayer, be a com-
mittee to consider the account of Capt. Phelps, and to consider what
sum is necessary to supply Capt. Phelps with, for transporting to Ti-
conderoga the pork he has purchased for our forces there, and bringing
the cannon from thence.
Ordered, That Mr. Wheeler be appointed to number the small colo-
ny notes, in the room of Mr. Goodwin, who has leave to go home.
The committee appointed to consider the letter from the Stockbridge
1775.] THIRD PROVINCIAL CONGRESS. 311
ludinns, reported the lollowing, wliiclj was accepted, and ordered to
be authenticated by the secretary, if the president is not in Watertown,
and sent forward. ^
To the Moheakoinmch trihc of Indians, living in and about Stock-
bridge :
Brothers : We, this day, by the delegate from Stockbridge, first
heard your friendly answer to our speech to you, by Capt. 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 that you are now
little; and that we were once 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
(1) T)ie talk of tlie Moheakounuck or JHulihekaneok indians was delivered by Solomon Uhliaunnau-
waumut, tlieir chief sachem, at Stockbridge, the scat of the tribe, April 11, 1775, after a council of
two days. The letter of the interpreter, containing the speech, was delayed in transmission or
communication to a late period : it is copied below.
" Brothers ! We have heard you speak by your letter — wc thank you for it — we now make answer."
" Brothers ! You remember when you first came over the great waters, I was great, and you was
little, very small. 1 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 has never been any quar-
rel between us. But now our conditions are changed. You have become great and tall. You
reach to the clouds. — You are seen all round the world, and 1 am become small, very little. I am
not so high as your heel. Now you take care of me, and 1 look to you for protection."
" Bro'.hers ! I am sorry to hear of this great quarrel between 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 countiy you came from."
" Brothers ! Whenever I see your blood running, you will soon find mo about you to revenge my
brother's blood. Although 1 am low and very small, I 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, therefore I ask your advice in what I am
now going to say. I have been thinking before you come to action to take a run to the westward,
and feel the mind of my Indian brethren, the Six Nations, and know how they stand, whether they
are on your side, or for your enemies. If I 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 im-
portant 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 I can do you more service in this way, than by marching off immediately to Bos-
ton, and staying 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 como down immediately, or wait till
1 hear some blood is spilled."
" Brothers ! I would not have you think by this that we arc 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 e.'spect I can train
like your men. Only point out to me where your enemies keep, and that is all T shall want to
know.'*
312 THIRD PROVINCIAL CONGRESS. [June 8,
shed some blood, soon after we spake to you last, by our letter. But
we, with a small twig, killed so many, and frightened them so much,
that they have shut themselves up in our great town, called Boston,
M'hich 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 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 council 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 wis-
dom 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.
To Capt. Solomon Ulihaiinnauwaunmut, Chief Sachem of the Mohca-
kounuck trihe of Indians, at Stockbridge.
[Whereas, it appears to this Congress, that great benefit may arise
to the American cause, should our friends of the Stockbridge, or
Moheakounuck tribe of Indians, send belts and messengers to the seve-
ral tribes connected with them ; and as the same may be attended with
expense ; therefore, Resolved, that the selectmen of the town of Stock-
bridge, for the time being, be a committee to promote the forwarding
such messengers and belts, and that the committee aforesaid be allowed
to draw out of the public moneys, in the hands of Stephen Nash, late
collector for tlie town of Stockbridge aforesaid, any sum or sums, not
exceeding fifteen pounds, for which said committee shall account to
this, or some future Congress, or house of representatives, and be al-
lowed all reasonable charges that have or may arise for promoting and
forwarding the premises.]
The committee appointed to establish an allowance of provisions for
the soldiers, reported. The further consideration of the report was put
off to nine o'clock to-morrow morning.
A colonel's commission was delivered to Col. John Fellowes.
Adjourned to eight o'clock to-morrow morning.
1775] THIRD PROVINCIAL CONGRESS. 313
Fridat, June [), 1775.
A petition from the selectmen and others of the town of Manclies-
ter' was read, and committed to the committee who were appointed to
consider the circumstances of the sea port towns.
Col. Bowers and Mr. Fisher, who were of the committee appointed
to consider the petition of the convention of committees of the county
of Worcester,'- being absent, Ordered, that Major Bliss and Doct.
Taylor be appointed in their room.
Col. Bowers, who was on the committee appointed to consider the
situation and circumstances of the sea coasts, being absent. Ordered,
that the Hon. Mr. Spooner be appointed in his room.
Ordered, That Capt. Stone of Oakham, Deacon Hovey, Col. Pres-
cott. Col. Farley and Col. Grout, be a committee to consider what is
proper to be done with the prisoners brought to this place from Arun-
del.
Ordered, That Capt. Goodrich, Mr. Mitchel and Mr. Johnson, be a
committee to consider a petition from Abiathar Angel, and report.
A petition from the town of Berwick was read, and committed to
the committee appointed to consider the situation and circumstances
of the sea coasts.
The committee appointed to bring in a resolve for the purpose of
enforcino- two resolves of the Continental Congress, reported : the re-
port was accepted, and with the said resolves of Congress here follow,
viz. :
In Congress, May 17, 1775, at Philadelphia.
Resolved, That all exportations to Quebec, Nova Scotia, the Island
of St. Johns, Newfoundland, Georgia, except the parish of St. Johns,
and to East and West Florida, immediately cease; and that no provi-
sions of any kind, or other necessaries, be furnished to the British fish-
eries on the American coasts, until it be otherwise determined by the
Congress.
May 29.
Resolved, That no provisions or necessaries of any kind be exported
to the island of Nantucket, except from the colony of the Massachu-
(1) The people of Manchester, suffering under the pressure of military duty, which interrupted
the cultivation of the fields and the prosecution of the fishery, requested liberty to raise and employ
a company of men for the defence of the town, to be placed on the provincial establishment, and
attached to the regiment of the army stationed nearest to the petitioners.
(2) The convention of the committees of Worcester county, in addition to a former memorial,
voted to remonstrate against the right of the delegates returned from the districts of Charlton and
Paxton to hold their seats in Congress. The objections against the validity of the elections are not
stated in the records.
40
314 THIRD PROVINCIAL CONGRESS. [June 9,
setts Bay, the convention of which colony is desired to take measures
for effectually providing the said island, upon their application to pur-
chase the same, with as much provision as shall be necessary for its
internal use, and no more. The Congress deeming it of great impor-
tance to North America, that the British fishery should not be furnish-
ed with provisions from this continent through Nantucket, earnestly
recommend a vigilant execution of this resolve to all committees.
A true copy from the minutes.
Charles Thompson, Sec'ry.
The foregoing resolves of the Continental Congress, being read and
considered. Resolved, that the same be forthwith printed in hand bills,
together with this resolve, and dispersed in the several sea port towns
in this colony, that due obedience may be paid to the same. Further,
Resolved, that the inhabitants of the island of Nantucket have liberty
to purchase such provisions as are necessary for the internal use of
said island, in any of the New England governments; provided, never-
theless, that no provisions or necessaries of any kind be exported to
the said island of Nantucket, without a permit in writing from the
committee of safety of this colony, or such person or persons as they
shall appoint to give such permit, expressing the quantity so to be trans-
ported, be first had and obtained; and that the same be exported from
such port only, in this colony, as shall be expressed in the same
permit.
The order of the day was moved for.
The report of the committee on the establishment of an allowance
of provisions for the soldiers, was read and considered, and after de-
bate thereon, was recommitted.
The committee on the petition from the county of Worcester report-
ed, that it is the opinion of the committee, that the delegates chosen
by the districts of Paxton and Charlton, as mentioned in said petition,
have not a right to seats in this house.
Moved, That a commission be delivered to Col. John Glover, as
colonel of a regiment in the Massachusetts army,
[Aflernoon.]
The report of the committee on the petition from the county of Wor-
cester was considered, and, after much debate, the question was put,
whether said report be accepted, and it passed in the negative.
Ordered, That the guard who has in custody the prisoners from
Arundel, be relieved by a guard from the town of Watertown.
Ordered, That Mr. Sayer be added to the committee, who were ap-
1775] THIRD PROVINCIAL CONGRESS. :Jir,
pointed to consider some measures for commissioning the oflicers of
the army, in the room of Col. Porter, who has leave of absence.
Leave of absence was irranted to the Rev. Mr. Thayer, and the Rev.
Mr. Curtis, and it being moved that they be directed to return as soon
as may be, the question was put, and it passed in the negative.
Col. Porter, who was of the committee to consider the letter of Mr.
Gridley to the committee of safety, relative to the train, being absent,
Mr. Partridge was appointed in his room.
Resolved, That the committee of safety be required, as soon as may
be, to certify to this Congress, the names of such gentlemen as are
candidates for the command of a regiment, with the number of privates
that have been enlisted under them, and any other claims or preten-
sions that any gentleman may have to a commission in the service.
Ordered, That the papers exhibited to this Congress by Capt.
Phelps be returned to him by Major Bliss.
Adjourned to nine o'clock to-morrow morning.
Saturday, June 10, 1775.
Ordered, That the committee of safety be directed to make return,
in writing, to this Congress, as soon as may be, of the names of all
those persons who claim, or offer themselves to be commissioned as
colonels of regiments in the colony army, and are not commissioned,
with any agreement that may have been made with any such persons
by the committee of safety ; as also, a state of those regiments, which
such persons claim the command of, as to their numbers, equipments,
and the time they have been engaged in service.
The committee appointed to consider what is proper to be done
with the prisoners brought from Arundel, reported as follows, viz. :
The committee appointed to examine the persons and papers sent to
this Congress, by the committee of the town of Arundel, have attended
that service; and, after due perusal of said papers, Josiah Jones and
Jonathan Hicks, therein referred to, were brought before them. Said
Jones in his defence says, he had no concern with the sloop Polly,
otherwise than as a passenger in her to Nova Scotia: notwithstanding
which, it appears clearly to this committee, by said papers, as also by
the evidence of Capt. Smith, master, herewith transmitted, that said
Jones went on board said sloop as supercargo, in the service of general
Gage, to bring hay and other articles to Boston, to supply our enemies.
We find by said Jones' account of himself, that he went to Boston
soon after the memorable Lexington battle, of the I9th of April last,
in company with John Ruggles, of Hardwick, who was ordered by a
316 THIRD PROVINCIAL CONGRESS. [June 10,
committee to the said town of Hardwick ; and that said Jones was know-
ing to the proceedings of said committee against said Ruggles, before
they set out together from Weston to take refuge in Boston ; and that
they left the common road, and went in the woods and difficult places,
to pass the town of Roxbury. The committee, upon the whole, have
not the least reason to doubt, of said Jones' being a notorious enemy
to his country, and of his having been in the actual employment of our
enemies against the just liberties of the people. [They] therefore beg
leave to report the following order, viz. :
In Provincial Congress, June 10, 1775.
Ordered, That Josiah Jones, taken from the sloop Polly, be sent,
with a sufficient guard, to the town of Concord, in the county of Mid-
dlesex, and committed to the common jail, there to remain until the fur-
ther orders of the Congress, or house of representatives of this colony.
Said Jonathan Hicks in his defence says, that since the public dis-
putes respecting the liberties of the country, he has not liked the part
that has been acted, in many respects, on either side, therefore could
not see his way clear to join with any. Upon examination, the com-
mittee find by evidence, that at Gardinerston, while he lived there, he
expressed himself highly against committees of correspondence, &c.,
calling them rebels, and using other opprobrious language against the
people who appeared for liberty, and endeavored to hinder their unity.
That, also, while he the said Hicks lived at Plymouth, he was esteem-
ed by the good people there, inimical to the liberties of his country by
his general conduct, and that at certain times he appeared very high,
and once drew his sword or spear upon certain persons. Said Hicks,
upon the whole, owns his generiil conduct has been such, as the people
for liberty call tory, but still says he is against the oppressive acts.
Said Hicks confesses, that the evening after the battle of Lexington
aforesaid, he left Plymouth, and took shelter with the troops at Marsh-
field, not thinking himself safe in the country ; that he went with them
to Boston, and there remained until he went on board the sloop Polly,
with Jones, and says he designed for Halifax, there to tarry, if he could
find business, in order to be out of the noise.
Capt. Smith, master of said sloop, can give no account of Hicks'
business on board ; all he can say is, he in general appeared inimical,
calling the liberty people rebels, &c. The committee, therefore, beg
leave to report the following order :
In Provincial Congress, Wcdertown, June 10, 1775.
Ordered, That Jonathan Hicks, taken from the sloop Polly, be sent,
1775] THIRD PROVINCIAL CONGRESS. 317
with a sudicieiit jfiiard, to the touri of Concord, in the county of Mid-
dlesex, and committed to the coiiiinon jail, there to remain until the fur-
ther orders of the Conijress, f)r house of representatives ol' this colony.
Ki^oli'id, That the keeper of the jail in the county of Middlesex he
directed to receive Messrs. Jones and Hicks, who were taken prison-
ers from the sloop Polly, at Arundel, and keep them in safe custody
till further order, and provide them necessaries for their suhsistence
whilst in jail, and that the committee of correspondence for the town
of Watertown, be directed to see that the resolves of Congress, respect-
ing the said Jones and Hicks be forthwith carried into execution, and
to take such guards as they think necessary for tliat purpose.
Ordrrcd, That the Hon. Mr. Sever, Col. Otis and Mr. Davis, be
added to the committee, who were appointed to consider the expedien-
cy of establishing a number of armed vessels for the protection of the
sea coasts.
Ordered, That Major Hawley, Capt. Stone, of Framingham, Col.
Parks, Hon. Mr. Sever, Mr. Johnson, Hon. Mr. Spooner and Deacon
Plympton, be a committee to take into consideration the artificers
which may be necessary for the army in the pay of this colony, and
that they report, as soon as may be, in what way such artificers shall
be established, the numbers wanted for the army at Cambridge and
Roxbury of each kind, and the sum that is proper to be allowed them
per month.
Ordered, That Mr. Whittemore, Capt. Dwight and Mr. Kollock, be
a committee to bring in a resolve for the appointment of a number of
armorers for the Massachusetts army, and for the establishment of their
p^y-
The resolve for establishing an allowance of provisions for the sol-
diers was again read, and accepted : and ordered to be printed in hand
bills, and is as follows, viz. :
The committee appointed to make an establishment for the allow-
ance for provisions for the soldiers of the Massachusetts army, beg
leave to report the following resolve, viz. :
Resolved, That each soldier in the Massachusetts army shall have
the following allowance per day, viz. :
1st. One pound of bread : 2d. Half a pound of beef and half a
pound of pork; and if pork cannot be had, one pound and a quarter
of beef; and one day in seven they shall have one pound and one
quarter of salt fish, instead of one day's allowance of meat : 3d. One
pint of milk, or, if milk cannot be had, one gill of rice : 4th. One
quart of good spruce or malt beer : 5th. One gill of peas or beans, or
318 THIRD PROVINCIAL CONGRESS. [June 11,
other sauce equivalent : 6th. Six ounces of good butter per week :
7th. One pound of good common soap for six men per week : 8th.
Haifa pint of vinegar per week per man, if it can be had.
The committee appointed to inquire into the state of the army, re-
ported, that, in order to execute their commission, it is necessary that
they should be furnished with a copy of all recommendations for com-
missions, sent to this Congress by the committee of safety, and a list
of all officers commissioned by the Congress, and asked leave to sit
again. The report was accepted.
Ordered, That Mr. Sayer, Mr. Edwards and Major Fuller, be a
committee to consider the proposal of the Hon. General Ward, re-
specting furloughs for the soldiers, and report.
Afternoon.
The petition of a number of the freeholders of Williamsburg^ [was]
read, and committed to Mr. Hale, Mr. Lyman and Col. Danielson.
The petition of Davis & Coverly^ [was] read, and committed to Mr.
Fairbanks, Mr. Webster and Col. Sawyer.
Monday next, three o'clock, P. M., was assigned to make choice of
three delegates to meet those that may be sent from the other New
England colonies.
The choice of two major generals [was] referred to Monday, five
o'clock, P. M.
Hon. Col. Warren, Hon. Mr. Spooner, Doct. Taylor, Capt. Stone,
Mr. Edwards, Col. Cobb, Col. Thompson, were appointed a committee
to consider the expediency of establishing a number of armed vessels.
Sunday, June 11, 1775.
[The Congress] met at eight o'clock, and adjourned to half past
three, P. M.
Resolved, That the Hon. Major Hawley, Hon. Mr. Spooner, Hon.
Col. Warren and Hon. Col. Foster, have leave to offer, for the consid-
eration of this Congress, an address which they have prepared for the
Continental Congress. The same being read and amended, was ac-
cepted, and ordered to be transcribed, and signed by the Hon. Major
Hawley as vice president, and sent immediately, by express, to Phila-
delphia ; and that the committee of supplies be desired to procure
some person to carry it. It is as follows, viz. :
(1) Letters from the town clerk and other inhabitants of Williamsburg declare that the meeting
held for election of a member of the Congress was illegal, but assign no specific informalities.
(2) The petitioners asked leave to exchange a quantity of goods owned by them in Boston, for
similar merchandise in Marlborough, the property of a merchant residing in the former town.
177.-,.] THIRD PROVINCIAL CONGRESS. 319
Mail it plra^r i/oitr honors :
The situation of any colony, or people, perhaps was never before
such as made it more necessary for fully exercising the powers of civil
government, than the present state and situation of the colony of the
Massachusetts Bay. The embarrassments, delays, disappointments
and obstructions, in executing every undertaking necessary for the
preservation of our lives, and much more of our property, are so great
and many, as that they cannot be represented, or enumerated : and that
is chiefly to be attributed to our want of a settled civil polity or govern-
ment : besides, every thing necessary for the abovesaid most important
purposes, which is in some degree effected, is done in the most expen-
sive manner : in short, although the times we are fallen into, and the
pro«.pects before us, are such as require the utmost economy, yet,
nothing of the kind can be preserved in our present state.
There are, in many parts of this colony, alarming symptoms of the
abatement of the sense, in the minds of some people, of the sacredness
of private property, which is plainly assignable to the want of civil
government; and your honors must be fully sensible, that a communi-
ty of goods and estate, will soon be followed with the utter waste and
destruction of the goods themselves ; besides, the necessity of civil gov-
ernment appears more and more apparent from the extreme difficulty
of maintaining the public peace without it ; although we can truly
say, much fewer enormities and breaches of the peace have happened
among us, than it was natural to expect, from the contemplation of
such a state as we have been cast into.
May it please your honors : The pressing weight of our distresses
has necessitated the sending a special post to obtain your immediate
advice upon this subject; and we do most earnestly entreat, that you
would, as soon as possible, despatch the messenger with such advice.
Our former application to you, of the I6th of May last, has rendered
it unnecessary that we should further enlarge upon this subject ; and,
to prevent repetition, we beg leave to refer you to our letter of that
date.
The army under the command of general Gage, we estimate to
amount, at least, to 5000 men, well appointed, under the command of
generals of character and experience, and prepared with every thing
necessary for action, exclusive of the additional strength derived from
negroes, which the general has taken into his service, and disaffected
Americans. We have great reason to apprehend, that a reenforcement
of at least eight regiments of foot and one of horse may be hourly ex-
pected. We enclose a copy of an intercepted letter from Major Sher-
320 THIRD PROVINCIAL CONGRESS. [June 12,
riff, which exhibits to you one ground of this apprehension. ^ We have
had under our consideration, the propriety and necessity of augmenting
our army, notwithstanding our great embarrassment, and though we
have not yet adopted it, nothing, perhaps, but the more ample provi-
sion of the neighboring colonies, will relieve that necessity.
The depredations and piracies frequently committed on our sea
coasts, and the little trade which remains to us, whereby, among other
capital articles, the importation of ammunition and provisions is almost
totally obstructed, and threatens our ruin ; have also occasioned our
contemplating steps to prevent those inconveniences, by ["fitting] out
a number of armed vessels, with sufficient strength to encounter their
small though numerous cutters.
We shall only add, that, as the seat of war, with all its attendant dis-
tresses, have, for the present, taken their principal residence here, we
should consider it as a happy event, if you should think proper to ad-
journ to some part of the continent not so far distant, that the advice
and aid of the ['Continental Congress] may be more expeditiously
afforded upon any emergency.
Adjourned to Monday morning, eight o'clock.
MoNDAT, June 12, 1775.
Ordered, That Mr. Wheeler, Deacon Baker and Mr. Webster, be a
committee to consider some measures for preventing the violation of
the sabbath, and to bring in a resolve for this purpose.
Resolved, That five o'clock in the afternoon, be assigned for the
consideration of the report of the committee, who were appointed to
bring in a resolve for giving a free currency to the bills of credit of
this and the other colonies.
Ordered, That the Hon. Mr. Spooner, Hon. Col. Gerrish and Doct.
Whiting, be a committee to consider the petition from the committee
at Charlestown, and report.
Resolved, That the secretary have liberty to procure such assistance,
from time to time, as he shall think necessary.
a [fi.xing.] b [continent.]
(1) Tlio letter of Major William SherrilT, deputy quarter master general, was dated at Boston,
May 29, 1775, and addressed to Tlionias Williams, Esq., keeper of the king's ordnance at Annapolis,
in Nova Scotia. The writer speaks of the profits and rewards the people of the eastern province
might receive, if they would collect forago and provisions for the royal army in Massachusetts.
" On the other hand," he says, " if they give themselves airs, and follow the example of these mad
men, they will consider how easily government can chastise them, and they may rely upon it they
will, and that immediately too: but 1 hope they will consider their interest better, and make all
the money they can" . . . . " We are in the same situation, as when I wrote you last, except the
addition of twelve liundred troops lately arrived from England. The regiment of horse, and eight
other regiments are hourly expected, when I hope you will hear better accounts from us."
1775.] THIRD PROVINCIAL CONGRESS. 321
Resolved, That two porsoiis l)e :i|)j)oiiite(l to repair to the fortress ol"
Ticonderoga, to examine into the state of that fortress, and of affairs
tliere, and to act in sucli a inaiuier as they shall he directed l)y this
Congress, and that four o'clock in the afternoon be assigned for the
choice of such persons, by ballot, and that the Hon. Major Hawley,
Hon. Col. Warren and Mr. Sullivan, be a committee to prepare in
structions for such delegates.
Tlie committee who were appointed to consider the expediency of
establishing a number of armed vessels, reported : the consideration of
the report was put off to ten o'clock to-morrow morning.
Hon. Mr. Dexter, one of the committee who were appointed to pre-
pare letters to the Continental Congress, New York and the New
England governments, being absent. Ordered, that the Hon. Mr.
Spooner be appointed in his room.
Ordered, That Mr. Sayer be directed forthwith to fill up and deliver
connnissions to the officers of Col. Whitcomb's regiment.
Ordered, [That] Mr. [^-Holten], Mr. Mitchell and Mr. Colvill, be a
committee to consider the petition of Mr. Ebenezer Prout.
Ordered, That Doct. Whiting, Doct. Taylor and Mr. Parks, be a
committee to consider some method of supplying the several surgeons
of the army with medicines.
The committee appointed to prepare a letter to the Continental Con-
gress, &c., reported the following, which was accepted, viz. :
May it please your honors :
The views of administration having been made evident, by their
conduct for some years past, and the late regulations of civil and ec-
clesiastical polity of Quebec having clearly discovered an intention to
make use of the Canadians as engines to reduce this continent to sla-
very, it has been found absolutely necessary for the preservation of the
liberties of America, to take possession of the important pass of Ticon-
deroga, and to send forward a sufficient force to hold the same against
any attempt which may be made to retake it, and to prevent general
Carlton from sending forces by the way of the lakes to annoy and dis-
tress the frontiers ; but, as we apprehend, there never has been any in-
tention to give the least disturbance to our brethren of Canada, to whom
we most sincerely wish the full and free enjoyment of their civil and re-
ligious rights. We humbly request, that your honors would take such
steps, to prevent any false impressions, which our enemies may attempt
to make on their minds concerning our designs, or to remove any such
a [Folten.]
41
322 THIRD PROVINCIAL CONGRESS. [June 12,
as have already been made, as you, in your wisdom, shall think most
expedient : as we look upon it to be of the utmost importance that
there should no jealousies subsist between them and the other colonies.
We also have had the most disagreeable accounts of methods taken to
fill the minds of the Indian tribes adjacent to these colonies with senti-
ments very injurious to us ; particularly we have been informed that
Col. Guy Johnson has taken great pains with the Six Nations, in order
to bring them into a belief, that it is designed by the colonies to fall
upon them and cut them off. We therefore pray you would, with all
the speed convenient, use your very great influence in guarding against
the evil intended by this malevolent misrepresentation. And we have
wrote to our sister colonies in New England, and to New York, re-
questing they would make a similar application to you respecting these
matters.
We are your most obedient, humble servants.
Resolved, That the vote for choosing two persons to repair to the
fortress of Ticonderoga be so far reconsidered, as that there be three
persons chosen, instead of two, for that service.
[Aflernoon.]
Ordered, That Col. Farley, Major Brooks and Mr. Cross, be a com-
mittee to consider and report what is proper to be done with the grass
growing on the estates of the refugees at Cambridge, Charlestown,
Roxbury and Milton, [who reported as follows :]
The committee appointed to take into consideration the resolve of
the committee of safety relative to certain quantities of grass growing
on the lands of the refugees in and about Cambridge, have attended
that service, and beg leave to report by way of resolve.
Resolved, That it be recommended to the committee of safety, that
they appoint some person or persons in the towns hereafter mentioned,
viz. : Cambridge, Charlestown, Roxbury and Milton, to cut the grass
and secure the hay growing on the estates of the refugees, in the above
mentioned towns, in some convenient place, for the benefit of the col-
ony, as to them shall seem meet.
Ordered, That Mr. Sullivan, Hon. Col. Warren and Col. Gerrish,
be a committee to consider what is best to be done with respect to a
vessel said to be going from Salem to New Providence for fruit and
turtle for the army at Boston.
Resolved, That Mr. Gerry have leave to bring in a resolve for pre-
venting the exportation of fish and other provisions.
The resolve was accordingly read and accepted, and ordered to be
177r».] THIRD PROVINCIAL CONGRESS. :W3
printed in hand l)ills, and sent to the several maritime towns in this
colony, and is as follows, viz. :
Whereas, the enemies of America are multiplying their cruelties to-
wards the inhabitants of the New England colonies, by seizing provi-
sion vessels, either the property of, or intended to supply them, and
also by plundering the stock of cattle, sheep, &c., on their sea coasts;
[therefore] Rcsohed, that it be, and it is hereby, recommended to the
inhabitants of the towns and districts in this colony that they forthwith
exert themselves to prevent the exportation of fish and all other kinds
of provision, excepting such only, as shall be intended to supply the
inhabitants of the colonies aforesaid, and as, in the opinion of the
selectmen, and committee of correspondence, and committees of safety
of the towns where the same shall be stored, may, with prudence, be
shipped for conveyance by water for the purpose aforesaid. And it is
strongly recommended to the selectmen, committees of correspondence,
and committees of safety, thoughout the colony, that they cause this
resolve to be strictly executed.
The committee appointed to consider some method for supplying
the surgeons in the army with medicine, reported : the report was read
and accepted, and is as follows, viz. :
The committee appointed to take into consideration a complaint that
the surgeons in the army are not properly furnished with medicines,
have attended that service, and beg leave to report : that whereas, it
appears that there is not, as yet, a sufficient number of medicine chests
provided, to furnish each regiment with a distinct chest ; and whereas,
the committee of supplies are making provision for the supplying of
each reoriment with such medicine chests as soon as possible : there-
fore, Resolved, that the committee of supplies be, and hereby are direct-
ed, immediately to furnish the surgeon of the first regiment at Cam-
bridge, and also the surgeon of the first regiment at Roxbury, each of
them, with a medicine chest, for the present; and that all the other
surgeons in the army at Cambridge and Roxbury, have free recourse
to the said chests, and be supplied from them, from time to time, as
they shall find occasion, until more ample provision shall be made for
them : all which is humbly submitted, and the committee beg leave to
sit again. William Whiting, per order.
Ordered, That the same committee be appointed to examine into
the medical stores, and make a list of what is necessary for the supply-
ing each regiment, that the same may be laid before the committee :
and that the same committee consider what medicines are necessary,
and bring in a list of what medicines are in the medicinal store : and
324 THIRD PROVINCIAL CONGRESS. [June 12,
that they be directed to report what instruments are necessary for the
surgeons of the army.
The committee appointed to consider what is best to be done rela-
tive to a vessel going from Salem to New Providence, reported : the
report was read and accepted, and is as follows :
Whereas, this Congress has been informed, that a schooner belong-
ing to the Ervings, in Boston, is fitted out, under color of being char-
tered by one Thompson, who has lately fled from Medford to Boston ;
but is really destined to Salem, and from there to New Providence, to
get fruit, turtle, and provisions of other kinds, for the sustenance and
feasting of those troops, who are, as pirates and robbers, committing
daily hostilities and depredations on the good people of this colony,
and all America; it is, therefore, Resolved, that Capt. Samuel McCobb,
a member of this Congress, be immediately despatched to Salem and
Marblehead, to secure said Thompson, and prevent said vessel from
going said voyage, and cause the said Thompson to be brought to this
Congress : and the committees of correspondence, safety and inspec-
tion of said towns, and all the good people of this colony, are directed
to give the said Capt. McCobb all needed assistance therein.
Ordered, That Mr. Sullivan, Capt. Stone and Major Bliss, be a
committee to count and sort the votes for three gentlemen as a com-
mittee to meet committees from the other governments of New Eng-
land, at Worcester, on the 28th of June current.
The committee, having attended that service, reported, that the Hon.
Mr. Dexter, the Hon. Major Havvley and the Hon. Mr. Sever, were
chosen. The Hon. Major Hawley and the Hon. Mr. Sever, having
desired to be excused, and having offered their reasons therefor, they
were excused accordingly ; whereupon,
Resolved, That ten o'clock to-morrow morning, be assigned for the
choice of two persons, in the room of Major Hawley and Mr. Sever, to
attend the said convention at Worcester, on the 28th of June current.
Ordered, That Mr. Sullivan, Capt. Stone and Major Bliss, be a
committee to count and sort the votes for three gentlemen to go to Ti-
conderoga.
The committee having attended that service reported, that the Hon.
Mr. Spooner, Hon. Col. Foster and Mr. Sullivan, were chosen.
Resolved, That the choice of two major generals, be referred to to-
morrow morning, eleven o'clock.
Ordered, That the petition from the county of Cumberland, laid on
the table by the committee who were appointed to consider of it, be
1775.] THIRD PROVINCIAL CONGRESS. 325
coniiiiiitcd to the coiiiinittLC who were appointed to consider the eir-
cuinstniiccs of the sea coasts.
The report of the committee of safety, relative to the claims of those
who stand as candidates for commissions in the army, &-c., was read,
and, with the papers accompanying it, was committed to the Hon. Ma-
jor Ilawley, Col. Farley, Capt. Greenlcaf, Doct. Taylor, Capt. Stone,
Mr. Partridge and Col. Sayer.
The committee on Mr. Prout's petition reported, that he have leave
to withdraw it. The report was accepted.
It was moved and seconded, that the resolve for choosing commit-
tees to meet committees from the other governments in New England,
at Worcester, the 28th current, be reconsidered : and it was thereupon
Resolved, that the further consideration of this motion be referred to
ten o'clock to-morrow morning.
The petitions of Col. Brewer and his officers, being read, were com-
mitted to the committee to whom were this day committed the report
of the committee of safety, and the papers accompanying it.
The committee on the petition of Davis &, Coverly, reported : the
report was read and accepted, and is as follows :
Whereas, application has been made to this Congress by Messrs.
Davis &, Coverly, merchants of Boston, representing that they have a
quantity of English goods now in Boston, and that Henry Barns, of
Marlborough, has a quantity of English goods, nearly of the same
quality, in said Marlborough, and therefore pray that they may have
leave to make an exchange : Resolved, that the prayer of said petition
be granted, and that the petitioners have leave to make the exchange
asked for.
The committee appointed to bring in a resolve for appointing a
number of armorers, reported. ^ The report being read and amended,
was ['accepted.]
Tuesday, June 13, 1775.
A letter from Governor Trumbull was read, enclosing a letter from
Col. Arnold, and three resolves of the Continental Congress : all w'hich
were committed to the committee who were appointed to prepare in-
structions to the committees that are to repair to Ticonderoga.
Resolved, That there be twenty-three regiments commissioned, ex-
clusive of the regiment of matrosses.
Ordered, That Mr. Webster, Col. Richmond and Major Wood, be
a [accepted and is as follows.]
(1) The report has not been entered on the journal, nor is it preserved on the filss.
326 THIRD PROVINCIAL CONGRESS. [June 13,
a committee to consider the petition of Abner Graves and others, and
that they hear the petitioners, and notify Capt. Dexter of time and
place. ^
[The] order of the day [was] moved for.
Absent members [were] directed to attend.
Resolved, That the further consideration of the report relative to the
establishment of armed vessels, be put off to three o'clock, in the af-
ternoon, and that the committee of safety and committee of supplies
be notified of this resolve.
Ordered, That Col. Otis and Col. Grout be added to the committee
who were appointed to deliver out commissions.
Resolved, That the resolve for the appointment of a convention of
committees from the several governments at Worcester, be reconsid-
ered, as well as the vote whereby a committee was appointed by this
Congress, and the vote assigning a time for the choice of two members
in the room of two members of that committee who were excused.
Ordered, That Mr. Partridge, Mr. Sayer, and Major Brooks, be a
committee to receive and count the votes for the major generals.
Ordered, That only one major general be chosen at a time, and that
the gentleman first chosen be the first major general.
Resolved, That the committees who may at any time be appointed
to receive and count votes for the choice of any person to any oflice or
appointment, be strictly enjoined to allow no member to shift or change
a vote after it is put into the hat.
The committee appointed to receive the votes for the first major gen-
eral, reported, that Col. John Whitcomb was chosen.
Resolved, That the choice of the second major general be referred
to five o'clock in the afternoon.
An account of Mr. Charles Cotton was read, and committed to Mr.
Pickering, Mr. Batchelder, and Mr. Dwight.
An account from Mr. Taylor, was likewise exhibited, and committed
to Col. Richmond, Mr. Singletary, and Mr. Hale, to examine, consider
of, and report upon.
Two accounts of Mr. John Brown were also read, and committed to
Mr. Hale, Mr. Edwards, Mr. Vose, Col. Thompson, and Major Bliss.
Ordered, That Mr. Lothrop, Mr. Fox, and Mr. Fessenden, be a
committee to consider the expediency of appointing Ensign Foley to
be an armorer in the Massachusetts army, in addition to the number
(1) The petition related to military rank and organization.
1775.] TimiD PROVINCIAL CONGRESS. :{27
wliicli this Contjress liavo ordered to he ap|)oiiit(d, and to consider
what his i)av shall he, if they lliink it proper he sliouhl 1)6 appointed.
Tlie connniltee on Charles Cohen's account, reported ; whereupon,
Rcsoliud, that the receiver general be, and hereby is directed, to pay to
Mr. Charles Colten out of the public treasury, the sum of ci'lJ} 18s. 8f/.
in full for his account this day exhibited to, and allowed by, this Con-
gress.
The committee appointed yesterday to consider the report of the
committee of safety, reported the following resolve, which was ac-
cepted ; and Capt. Stone, Capt. Dwight, and Mr. Kollock, were or-
dered to give due information thereof to the colonels therein mentioned,
viz :
Resolved, That Colonels Glover, Heath, David Brewer, Robinson,
Woodbridge, Henshavv, Little, Jonathan Brewer, be directed, by next
Thursday morning, at 8 o'clock, to make a true return to the commit-
tee on the claims and pretensions of the several gentlemen claiming to
be commissioned as colonels; of the number of captains, who, with
their respective companies, do choose to serve under the above named
gentlemen respectively as colonels ; and of the number of men; and of
the number of effective fire-arms in each company ; and of the place or
places where said companies are : on pain of forfeiting all pretensions
to a commission of a colonel, in case of making a false return.
Afternoon.
An account of Mrs. Dorothy Coolidge was read, and committed to
Doct. Taylor, Col. Thompson, and Mr. Bent.
[The] order of the day [was] moved for.
The report of the committee on the expediency of establishing a
number of armed vessels was considered, and after a very long debate,
the further consideration of it was referred to Friday next, at eleven
o'clock, A. M.
The committee who were appointed to prepare instructions to the
gentlemen chosen by this Congress to repair to Ticonderoga, reported :
the report was read, and accepted, and is as follows, viz.:
To Walter Spooner, Jcdaliah Foster, and James Sullivan, Esquires :
You are directed to proceed, as soon as may be, to the posts of Ti-
conderoga and Crown Point, by the road through the new settlements,
called the New Hampshire Grants; that you carefully observe the
quality of the said road, and judge of the feasibleness of transporting
provisions by the said road to the waters of Lake Champlain ; that you
328 THIRD PROVINCIAL CONGRESS. [June 13,
take with you copies of the commission and instructions of the com-
mittee of safety to Col. Benedict Arnold, and inform yourselves as fully
as you shall be able, in what manner the said Col. Arnold has exe-
cuted his said commission and instructions.
That you make and give to the said Arnold, and any men whom he
shall, by virtue of the said commission and instructions retain in the
service of this colony, such orders as to you shall seem meet : provided
always, that you do not authorize the said Arnold to engage and re-
tain in the pay of this Colony, as soldiers, a greater number than that
specified in his said commission and instructions, and provided that the
said Arnold and his men whom he has retained are free and willing to
continue at one or both of the said posts, under the command of such
chief officer as is, or shall be appointed by the government of Connecti-
cut ; and in case you shall order such number of men to be continued
at or near the said posts in the pay of this colony, as you shall judge it
necessary there should be, that you appoint a committee of one or more
persons, in the pay of this colony, to provide supplies for such men,
and a commissary to deal out such supplies to them : which commit-
tee and commissary you are to appoint in writing under your hands.
And you are to determine and order, respecting the said Arnold's
continuing in the commission and pay of this colony, as to you shall
appear most for the general service and safety, after having made your-
selves fully acquainted with the spirit, capacity, and conduct of the said
Arnold. And in case you shall judge it proper to discharge the said
Arnold, that you direct him to return to this colony, and render his ac-
count of the disposition of the money, ammunition, and other things
which he received at his setting out upon his expedition, and also of
the charges he has incurred, and the debts which he has contracted in
behalf of this colony, by virtue of the commission and instructions
aforesaid.
And in case you shall find any men at the said posts properly re-
tained, and engaged there in the service of this colony, that you cause
them and their arms to be mustered, and that to such as shall pass mus-
ter, you pay out of the money which you shall receive from our receiver
general for that purpose, the same advance pay as is by order of Con-
gress paid to such men as are retained and mustered to serve within the
colony ; and in case you shall not find any men at the said posts, prop-
erly engaged and retained in the service of this colony, or that the
number which you shall find so retained, shall be much short of the
number which said Arnold was empowered to enlist, that then you, if
you shall judge that the effectual security of the said posts shall require
\7',ry.\ THIRD IMIOVINCIAL CONGRESS. :wy
it, ;iii(l it 3<tu t;h;ill also tiiid a proper |»('rsoii in those parts, tit and suit-
able tor the cominaml of lour liiiiKJred men, or such less number, as to-
getiier with such as you shall lind ordered and posted tiiere by any other
colony or colonics, and shall also find that soldiers can be raised in
those parts so seasonably, as that thereby the effectual maintenance of
the said posts may be served or promoted ; you are to appoint meet
persons to be otlicers and commanders for such a number of men as
you shall order to be eidisted, and give the necessary orders for raising,
enlisting, and maintaining them, for such term as you shall judge neces-
sary for defence of said posts, and also appoint some sufficient and
faithful man as muster master and pay master of such men, and leave
sutlicient money in his hands for that purpose, taking proper receipts
and his security that the money so left shall be applied to that use.
And you are to take a careful survey of the ordnance stores, and ord-
nance at those posts, together with all other articles necessary for the
maintenance thereof, and report tlie state thereof to this Congress.
And if you shall find it necessary to purchase powder for the men who
shall be retained there on the part of this colony, that you procure the
same, and so much as you shall judge needful, in the best and most ex-
peditious way you can, on the credit of this colony. And in general,
you are hereby fully empowered to do every thing, in behalf of this col-
ony, for the effectual securing and maintaining those posts which you
shall judge necessary, equal to the importance of the same.
You are further directed, when you shall have transacted what you
are by the foregoing instructions authorized to do and transact, at the
posts abovesaid, by the very first opportunity, to advise the General
American Congress thereof, as also of your opinion of the necessity and
importance of maintaining the said posts for the general defence of
these colonies : and when you shall have made yourselves fully ac-
quainted with the state and condition of the said posts, and the dispo-
sitions and establishments which you shall find are made for maintain-
ing of them, if you shall judge that any further provisions are neces-
sary for securing and maintaining them, you are directed, fully and re-
spectfully, to signify your thoughts thereon to the General Congress.
You are also directed to advise the general convention of tlie colony of
New York, and the governor of the colony of Connecticut, respect-
ively, of what you shall order and transact, by virtue of the said in-
structions.
The committee appointed to consider the expediency of appointing
Ensign Falley, of Col. Danielson's regiment, an armorer in the Massa-
42
330 THIRD PROVINCIAL CONGRESS. [June 13,
chusetts army, in addition to the number already ordered, and to con-
sider what his pay shall be, if it is thought proper by this Congress, he
should be appointed, have attended that service, and beg leave to re-
port as follows, viz :
That, whereas, it has been represented to your committee, that the
armorers, or many of them, who are already established, are very im-
perfect in the business they profess, and that the above said Falley is a
complete master of the same ; in consideration of which, your commit-
tee think it of the highest importance, that he (the said Falley) should
be employed in said department, and be allowed and paid forty shil-
lings per month, in addition to his pay as an ensign, and be under the
same rules and regulations as the other armorers already appointed, or
to be appointed ; all which is humbly submitted.
Isaac Lothrop, per order.
Ordered, That the president. Col. Warren, Col. Palmer, Mr. Sever
and Doct. Taylor, be a committee to consider the subject matter of a
late extraordinary proclamation of general Gage.^
(1) The celebrated proclamation of general Gage was promulgated June 12, 1775.
By his excellency, the honorable Thomas Oage, Esq., governor and commander in chi^, in and over his
majesty^s province of Jilassachusetts Bay, and vice admiral of the same :
A PROCLAMATIOX.
" Whereas, the infatuated multitudes, who liave long suftered themselves to he conducted by cer-
tain well known incendiaries and traitors, in a fatal progression of crimes against the constitutional
autliority of the state, have, at length, proceeded to avowed rebellion ; and the good eft'ects which
were expected to arise from the patience and lenity of the king's government, have been often
frustrated, and are now rendered hopeless, by the influence of the same evil counsels ; it only re-
mains for those who are entrusted with supreme rule as well for the punishment of the guilty as
the protection of the well affected, to prove they do not bear the sword in vain."
" The infringements which have been committed upon the most sacred rights of the crown and the
people of Great Britain, are too many to enumerate on one side, and are all too atrocious to bo
palliated on the other. All unprejudiced people who have been witnesses of the late transactions
in this and the neighboring provinces, will find, upon a transient review, marks of premeditation
and conspiracy that would justify the fulness of chastisement : and even those who are least ac-
quainted with facts, cannot fail to receive a just impression of their enormity, in proportion as they
discover the arts and assiduity by which they have been falsified or concealed. The authors of the
present unnatural revolt, never daring to trust their cause or their actions to the judgment of an
impartial public, or even to the dispassionate reflection of their followers, have uniformly placed
their chief confidence in the suppression of truth : and while indefitigable and shameless pains have
been taken to obstruct every appeal to the real interest of the people of America, the grossest for-
geries, calumnies, and absurdities that ever insulted human understanding, have been imposed upon
their credulity. The press, that distinguished appendage of public liberty, and when fairly and im-
partially employed, its best support, has been invariably prostituted to the most contrary purposes : the
animated language of ancient and virtuous times, calculated to vindicate and promote the just rights
and interest of mankind, has been applied to countenance the most abandoned violation of those
sacred blessings ; and not only from the flagitious prints, hut from the popular harangues of the
times, men have been taught to depend upon activity in treason, for the security of their persons
and properties : till, to complete the horrid profanation of terms and of ideas, the name of God has
been introduced in the pulpits, to excite and justify devastation and massacre."
» The minds of men having been thus gradually prepared for the worst extremities, a number of
1775.] TIIIIID PROVINCIAL CONGRESS. .VM
Resolord, Tli.it Mr. Siilliv;ui have Iil)erty to u.se tlie horse in Mr.
Fowle's pasture in tliis town, whicli was taken lately from Noddle's
island, for his journey to Ticonderoga.
Adjourned till to-morrow morning, eight o'clock.
nrcnoil persons, to the iiiiioiint of niiiny thoiisuncl.4, assoiiiMod, on the 19th of .\pril last, and, from
behind walls and lurkin<; holes, attacked a detachment of the king's troops, who, not expecting so
consummate nn act of phriMizy, unprepared for vengeance, and willing to decline it, made use of
thoir arms only in their own defence. "
•'Since that period, the rebels, deriving confidence from impunity, have added insult to outrage ;
have repeatedly fired upon the king's ships and suhjeclj*, with cannon and small arms ; have
possessed the roads, and other communications hy which the town of Boston was supplied with
provisions ; and with a preposterous parade of military arrangement, they affecl to hold the array
besieged; while part of their body make daily and indiscriminate invasions upon private property,
and with a wantonness of cruelty ever incident to lawless tumult, carry depredation and distress
wherever they turn their steps. The actions of the 19th of April are of such notoriety, as must
baffle all attempts to contradict them ; and the flames of buildings and other property from the
islands and adjacent country, for some weeks past, spread a melancholy confirmation of the subse-
HU vit H-!'rti.ji-.."
" In this exigency of complicated calamities, I avail myself of the last effort within the hounds of
my duty to spare the effusion of blood, to offer, and I do hereby, in his majesty's name, offer and
promise his most gracious pardon to all persons who shall forthwith lay down their arms, and return
to the duties of peaceable subjects: excepting only from the benefit of such pardon, Samuel Adams
and John Hancock, whose offences are of too fl;igitious a nature to admit of any other considera-
tion than that of condign punishment."
" And, to the end, that no person within the limits of this proffered mercy, may plead ignorance of
the consequence of refusing it, I, by these presents, proclaim, not only the persons above named
and excepted, but also all their adherents, associates and abettors; meaning to comprehend in these
terms, all and every person, and persons, of what class, denominition, or description soever, who
have appeared in arms against the king's government, and shall not lay down the same as before
mentioned ; and likewise all such as shall so take arms after the date hereof, or shall, in any wise,
protect or conceal such offenders, or assist them with money, provision, cattle, arms, ammunition,
carriages, or any other necessary for subsistence, or offence ; or shall hold secret correspondence
with them, by letter, message, signal, or otherwise ; to be rebels and traitors, and as such to be
treated."
" And whereas, during the continuance of the present unnatural rebellion, justice cannot be admin-
istered hy the common law of the land, the course whereof has, for a long time past, been violently
impeded, and wholly interrupted, from whence results a necessity for using and exercising the law
martial ; I have, therefore, thought fit, by the authority vested in me by the royal charter to this
province, to publish, and I do hereby publish, proclaim and order, the use and exercise of the law
martial, within and throughout this province, for so long a time as the present unhappy occasion
shall necessarily require ; whereof all persons are hereby required to take notice, and govern them-
selves, as well to maintain order and regularity among the peaceable inhabitants of the province,
ad to resist, encounter, and subdue the rebels and traitors above described by such as shall be called
upon for those purposes."
" To these inevitable, but I trust salutary measures, it is a far more pleasing part of my duty to
add the assurance of protection and support, to all, who, in so trying a crisis, shall manifest their
allegiance to the king, and affection to the parent state : so that such persons as may have been
intimidated to quit their habitations in the course of this alarm, may return to their respective call-
ings and professions; and stand distinct and separate from the parricides of the constitution, till
Gor in his mercy shall restore to his creatures in this distracted land, that system of happiness
from which they have been seduced, the religion of peace, and liberty founded upon law."
" Given at Boston, this twelfth d ly of Jrno, in the rift:'entli year of the reign of his majesty George
th.i third, by the grace of God, of Great Britain, France and Ireland, king, defender of the faith,
&.C. Anno domini, 1775. THO.MAS GAGE."
" By his excellency's command, THOM.\S FLUCKER, Secretary."
" Qod sace the Kino-."
332 THIRD PROVINCIAL CONGRESS. [June 14,
Wednesday, June 14, 1775.
Resolved, That the receiver general be and hereby is directed to
pay the sum of four hundred pounds to the committee who have been
appointed by this Congress to repair to Ticonderoga, to be by said
committee appropriated as advance pay to the men enlisted under Col.
Benedict Arnold : said committee to be accountable therefor.
Resolved, That the receiver general be, and hereby is directed, to
advance the sum of twenty pounds to the committee, who have been
appointed by this Congress to go to Ticonderoga, in cash, or bills of
credit, at the option of said committee, for their expenses, they to be
accountable therefor.
The committee appointed to consider the petition of Abner Graves
and others, reported, that the petitioners have leave to withdraw their
petition. The report was accepted.
Ordered, That Capt. Stone, Col. Warren, Col. Grout, Mr. North
and Col. Otis, be a committee to consider the report of Col. Thomp-
son and the petition of Mr. Parry, and report.
Resolved, That the first Thursday in July next, be appointed to be
observed as a day of fasting and prayer throughout this colony, and
that the Hon. Col. Palmer, Hon. Mr. Sever and Mr. Hopkins, be a
committee to bring in a resolve for this purpose.
Ordered, That Col. Robinson, Mr. Webster, Major Fuller, Capt.
Holmes and Mr. Edwards, be a committee to consider some way and
means of furnishing those who are destitute of arms in the Massachu-
setts army.
Ordered, That the committee who were chosen to repair to Ticon-
deroga, be directed to revise the papers that respect the fortress there,
and take such as they may think they shall want, and that this Congress
will not have occasion for.
Ordered, That Mr. Phillips, Mr. Jewett and Mr. Hopkins, be a
committee to devise some means for securing the library and apparatus
of Harvard College.
Ordered, That Col. Gerrish, Mr. Parker and Mr. Caldwell, be a
committee to consider the request of Joseph Palmer (quarter master
general) for providing tents or barracks for the army at Cambridge.
Ordered, That three o'clock this afternoon be assigned for the
choice of a second major general, and the committees who are now
out be notified of the same.
Ordered, That the consideration of a report for giving a currency to
the bills of credit of the other governments, be referred to four o'clock
this afternoon.
1775.] THIRD PROVINCIAL CONGRESS. :{:J3
On/crrd, Tlial INIr. ( Uiiidwick, Mr. I^otliroj), Col. Smith, Mr. Stoarna
and Capt. KIlis, he ;; (•.niniiiittec to consider the ])r()|)ricty of supplying
tlie ^renerahs ol" the Massacliusetts army at Caiiihridi^ff and Roxl)ury,
with some necessary liousehold riirnitiire.
Oidciid, That Col. Coffin, Doct. Taylor and Mr. Pickering, he a
committee to disperse the resolves of Congress relative to the embargo
laid upon the exportation ot" fish, &!^c.
[.Vftcriiooii.]
Upon a motion made, Col. Prescott was chosen to countersign the
notes, instead of Col. Foster, absent, who was appointed for that pur-
pose.
The order of the day [was] moved for.
Mr. Lothrop, Capt. Cushing and Capt. Dwight, were chosen a com-
mittee to count and sort the votes for a second major general, who re-
ported that Doct. Joseph Warren was chosen.
Resolved, That Col. Grout, Col. Berry and Col. Otis, be a commit-
tee to wait on the Hon. John Whitcomb, Esq., and inform him this
Congress have made choice of him for first major general of the Mas-
sachusetts army, and desire his answer to this Congress of his accep-
tance of said trust; also, to wait on the Hon. Joseph Warren, Esq.,
and inform him this Congress have made choice of him for second
major general of the Massachusetts army, and desire his answer to this
Congress of his acceptance of said trust.
The committee appointed to consider some measures for preventing
the violation of the sabbath, reported : the report was recommitted.
The committee appointed to devise some measures for securing the
library and apparatus of Harvard College, reported : the report was re-
committed for amendment.
Mr. Smith, Mr. Lothrop and Major Brooks, were chosen on the
committee appointed to take into consideration the artificers, which
may be necessary for the army in pay of this colony, instead of Major
Hawley, Capt. Stone of Framingham, and Hon. Mr. Spooner, absent.
Major Davis [was] chosen instead of Hon. Mr. Spooner, absent, on
the committee appointed to consider a petition from Charlestown.
The committee appointed to bring in a resolve for a day of fasting
and prayer, reported : the report was recommitted for amendment, viz. :
that the following things might be mentioned : blessing on the Conti-
nental Congress ; unity of the colonies ; health; fruitful seasons; &,c.,
dtc.
Col. Richmond, per order, reported the following resolve :
Whereas, it appears to this Congress, that it is absolutely necessary
334 THIRD PROVINCIAL CONGRESS. [June 15,
that proper officers be put in commission to command the train of ar-
tillery, and that it be done without delay : Resolved, that the committee
of supplies be directed forthwith to recommend such officers to this
Congress, as they shall think proper for the purposes aforesaid.
The consideration of the currency of the notes for the payment of
soldiers, [was] assigned to to-morrow morning, nine o'clock.
Mr. Samuel Thatcher was appointed to number the notes, instead of
Mr. Samuel Phillips, who is otherwise engaged.
Resolved, That the receiver general be, and hereby is directed, to
supply Col. Robinson to-morrow, with such money for advance pay for
the soldiers, as he was to have received this day.
Thursday, June 15, 1775.
Orelcred, That Mr. Gridley's letter respecting officers of the train,
and artificers, be committed to the committee who were appointed the
10th instant, to consider how many artificers were necessary, &c.
Ordered, That Col. Barrett, Capt. Dwight and Capt. Page, be a
committee to consider what measures it would be proper to take, that
the army may be supplied with no provisions but what are good in
kind.
The resolve relative to securing the library and apparatus of Harvard
College, was read and accepted, and is as follows, viz. :
Whereas, it is expedient that those apartments in Harvard Hall,
under the immediate charge of the professor of philosophy and libra-
rian of Harvard College, be evacuated. Resolved, that the library, ap-
paratus, and other valuables of Harvard College, be removed, as soon as
may be, to the town of Andover ; [and] that Mr. Samuel Phillips, Mr.
Daniel Hopkins, and Dummer Jewett, Esq., be a committee to consult
with the reverend, the president, the Hon. Mr. Winthrop and the libra-
rian, or such of them as may be conveniently obtained, and with them
to engage some suitable person or persons in said town, to transport,
receive, and take the charge of the above mentioned effects ; that said
committee join with those gentlemen, in employing proper persons for
packing said library, apparatus, and such other articles as they shall
judge expedient, and take all due care that it be done with the greatest
safety and despatch : and as the packages shall be completed, that they
give notice to those engaged to receive them : the charges to be laid
before this, or some future Congress, or house of assembly of this
province.
Ordered, That the letters prepared for the Continental Congress,
1775.] THIRD PROVlNCfAL CONGRESS. :{:{.",
New York, and flif smcral uovcrntnciits in New Kii(.r|;uHl, 1)0 aiitlicnti-
catt'd and sent lurw aid as soon as may Ix'. Tliey arc as ("oilow, viz. :
Considering the exposed state of the frontiers of some of the colo-
nies, the danger that the inhabitants of Canada may possibly have
disagreeable apprehensions from the military preparations makincr in
several of the other colonies, and the rumors that there are some
appearances of their getting themselves in readiness to act in a hostile
way, this Congress have made application to the Hon. Continental
Congress, desiring them to take such measures as to them shall appear
proper, to (piiet and conciliate the minds of the Canadians, and to pre-
vent such alarming apprehensions. We have also had the most disa-
greeable accounts of methods taken to fill the minds of the Indian tribes
adjacent to these colonies, with sentiments very injurious to us : par-
ticularly we have been informed, that Col. Guy Johnson has taken
great pains with the Six Nations, in order to bring them into a belief,
that it is designed by the colonies to fall upon them, and cut them off.
We have therefore desired the Hon. Continental Congress, that they
would, with all convenient speed, use their influence in guarding
against the evil intended by this malevolent misrepresentation. And
we desire you to join with us in such application.
To the Continental Congress, New York, and the several govciinmrnts
in Nctv England.
Voted, To accept the report for directing the committee of safety to
take inmiediate care to provide houses for the soldiers near the camp
in Cambridge, if tents cannot be had, at the expense of the colony. It
is as follows, viz : The committee appointed to take under considera-
tion the petition of the quarter master general, and committee of safe-
ty, have attended that service, and report, that the committee of safety
be directed to take immediate care to provide houses for the soldiers
near the camp in Cambridge, if tents cannot be had, at the expense of
the colony.
Ordered, That to-morrow, at three o'clock in the afternoon, be as-
signed for the choice of four brigadier generals, two adjutant generals,
and two quarter master generals.
Ordered, That the petition of Ephraim Perry, and four others, in-
habitants of Fox Island, be committed to the committee appointed to
consider the circumstances of the sea coasts.
Voled, To accept the report for advising a number of towns and
districts, as per schedule annexed to the report, who have fire-arms, to
deposit the same with their respective town or district treasurers, for
the use of the armv. It is as follows, viz :
336 THIRD PROVINCIAL CONGRESS. [June 15,
Whereas, some of the inhabitants of the plantations in this colony not
incorporated, and some of the inhabitants of the neighboring colonies,
together with a number of the late inhabitants of the town of Boston,
have enlisted into the army now raising in this colony ; therefore, [are]
not provided with arms by a resolve of Congress, dated May 9th, 1775,
empowering the selectmen to supply the inhabitants of their respective
towns, with arms, &c. : therefore, Resolved, that the inhabitants of the
several towns and districts in the counties of Worcester, Hampshire,
and other counties specified in a list hereunto annexed, who may have
good and sufficient fire-arms and bayonets, be advised hereby, immedi-
ately to deposit the same with the respective town or district treasur-
ers, to the number at least of so many in each town or district, as is
specified in said list, for which arms and bayonets, or arms alone,
where bayonets are not to be had, each owner shall receive so much as
his arms and bayonets shall be valued [at], by the selectmen of the
town or district in Avhich he dwells, of the treasurer of said town or
district, in bills of credit of this colony, within thirty days after the
arms are delivered, for which bills are to be taken, in the name of this
colony, attested by the selectmen aforesaid. And the amount of such
bills, with an order from such treasurer, the committee of supplies of
this colony are hereby ordered to pay, together with the expense of
transporting said arms to the store of said committee in Watertown.
And further, the selectmen and committees of correspondence, together
with the treasurers of the towns and districts aforesaid, are hereby di-
rected to give their aid in collecting and transporting said arms with
the greatest despatch.
Count u of Worcester. — Worcester, 30 ; Lancaster, 32 ; Mendon,
24; Brookfield, 31; Oxford 11; Charlton, 11; Sutton, 31;
Leicester, 12; Spencer, 10; Paxton, 6; Rutland, 15; Oakham,
6; Ilubbardston, 2 ; New Braintree, 10; Southborough, 12;
Westborough, 12 ; Northborough, 8 ; Shrewsbury, 22 ; Lunen-
burg, 16 ; Fitchburg, 6; Uxbridge, 16; Harvard, 16; Dudley,
10; Hutchinson, 13; Bolton, 15 ; Upton, 6; Sturbridge, 12 ;
Leominster, 12; Hardwick, 17; Western, 11; Holdcn, 8;
Douglas, 7 ; Grafton, 12 ; Petersham, 12 ; Royalston, 2 ; West-
minster, 10; Athol, 6; Templeton, 8; Princeton, 8; Ash-
burnham, 3 ; Wiuchendon, 3 ; . . . 514
Hampi;hirc. — Springfield, 22; West Springfield, 23; Wilbraham,
10; Northampton, 22; Southampton, 8; Hadley, 9; South
Hadley, 7; Amherst, 10; Granby, 5; Flatfield, 11; Whateley,
177r>.] TIIIIID PROVINCIAL CONGRESS. 3:n
4; Williamsburg, 3; Wostlield, 10; Deerfield, 12 ; Greenfield,
8; Shelbiiriie, 4; Conway, 5; Sunderland, 7; Montague, 6:
Northfield, 8; Briuifield, I:J ; South Briinticid, 8 ; Monson, 6 ;
Pelliau), V2 ; Greenwich, 8; Blantord, 5; Palmer, 8; Gran-
ville, 14 ; New Salem, 6; Belchertown, 8; Colraine, 5 ; Ware,
4; Warwick, 3; Bernardston, 4 ; Murrayfield, 5; Charlcmont, 3;
Aslitield, 4; Worthington, 2 ; Shutesbury, 4; Chesterfield, 0;
Southwick,6; ...... 334
iSMjfoM-.— Wrentham, 25; Medway, 10; Bellingham, 6; Wal-
pole, 8; ....... 49
Middlesfx. — Marlborough, 20; Littleton, 10; Hopkinton, 10;
Westford, 10; Stow, 7 ; Groton, 8 ; Shirley, 4; Pepperel, 6 ;
Townshend, 5; Dracut, 7; Holliston, 6; Acton, 5; Dunsta-
ble, 4 ; . . . . . .102
Plymouth. — Bridgewater, 25 ; Middleborough, 16; . . 41
Bristol. — Attleborough, 10 ; Rehoboth, 15 ; . . . 25
Worcester, 514 ; Hampshire, 334 ; Suffolk, 49 ; Middlesex, 102 ;
Plymouth, 41; Bristol, 25 : in all, .... 1065
Voted, To accept the report for providing a magazine of fire-arms
for this colony : also, that said report be printed in the several news-
papers, viz :
Whereas, it is necessary that this colony be provided with a maga-
zine of arms which are good and sufficient ; therefore. Resolved, that
any person or persons, who may have such to sell, shall receive so
much for them, as the selectmen of the town or district in which he or
they may dwell, shall appraise said arms at, upon the delivery of the
same to the committee of supplies at Watertown, and exhibiting a cer-
tificate of said appraisement, attested by said selectmen, to the com-
mittee aforesaid ; provided said delivery be made within one month
from the date hereof
Afternoon.
Ordered, That Mr. Parker, Col. Thompson, and Mr. Aiken, be a
committee to apply to the committee of supplies, and the generals of
the army, and inquire whether the army is sufficiently supplied with
ammunition.
Ordered, That Daniel Davis, Esq., be on the committee appointed
to take care of the estates of the refugees, in the room of Mr. Partridge,
who is absent.
43
338 THIRD PROVINCIAL CONGRESS. [June 15,
The committee appointed to examine and consider two accounts
exhibited to this Congress by Mr. John Brown, reported : The report
on each of them, was accepted, and is as follows, viz : The committee
appointed to examine the within account, beg leave to report, that the
same be laid on the table till Mr. Brown exhibits an account of particu-
lars with his journal. John Hale, per order.
The committee appointed to examine the within account, beg leave
to report, that it does not appear to them that the within mentioned
services were rendered in consequence of an application by any person
employed by this colony. John Hale, per order.
Ordered, That Col. Warren, Mr. Sever, and Col. Otis, be a com-
mittee to consider the application of the Reverend Dr. Langdon, pres-
ident of Harvard College, and report thereon.
The committee appointed to consider the claims and pretensions of
several colonels in the army, reported : which report was accepted :
whereupon, Orelered, that Col's. Glover, David Brewer, Woodbridge,
Little, and Jonathan Brewer, be commissioned as colonels in the
Massachusetts army, and that [Joseph] Haven, Esq., administer the
oath prescribed by Congress. The report is as follows, viz :
The committee appointed to consider the claims and pretensions of
the several gentlemen hereafter named, who suppose that they have
just grounds to expect of this honorable Congress, that they should re-
ceive commissions appointing them severally to be chief colonels in
the Massachusetts army, now raising for the defence of the rights of
this and the neighboring colonies, namely : Col. Glover, Gen. Heath,
Col. David Brewer, Col. Robinson, Col. Woodbridge, Col. Little, Col.
Henshaw, and Col. Jonathan Brewer, beg leave to report the following
state of facts to this Congress, viz : That the colonels Glover, David
Brewer, Woodbridge, Little, Henshaw, and Jonathan Brewer, have
exhibited their claims to your committee, and according to the returns
which the said gentlemen have respectively made to us, the said Col.
Glover has levied ten companies, making in the whole 505 men, inclu-
sive of officers , and about three quarters of the said number armed with
effective firelocks ; who are willing and choose to serve in the said
army, under him the said Glover ; all now at Marblehead :
That the said David Brewer has levied nine companies, amounting,
inclusive of officers, to the number of 465 men, who choose to serve
under him as their colonel ; and that 307 of the said men are armed
with effective fire-arms ; and that said companies, excepting 34 men
who are on their way to head quarters, are po.sted at Roxbury, Dor-
chester, and Watertown :
That the said Woodbridge has levied eight companies, amounting,
ITT.').]
THIRD PROVINCIAL CONGRESS. ^39
inclusive of officers, to the luiiiihcr of "i'A men, who choose to serve
uiidcr him as their chief colonel, and that 273 of the said men, are
ardicd with good effective firelocks, and that all the said men, except-
ing seven, are now in the canii) at Cambridge ; the said seven men are
on tlu- road hither :
And that the said Little has raised eight companies, according to
General Ward's return, amounting, inclusive of officers, to the number
of 50y men, who choose to serve under him as their chief colonel ; and
all the said men are armed with good effective firelocks, and 382 of
them with good bayonets, fitted to their firelocks; and that seven of
the said companies are at the camp in Cambridge, and one company at
Cape Ann, by order of the committee of safety :
And that the said Jonathan Brewer has levied eight companies,
amounting, inclusive of officers, to the number of 397 men, who choose
to serve under him, the said Jonathan, as their chief colonel ; and that
302 of the said men are armed with good firelocks ; and that all the
said men, excepting 27 who are on the road hither, are posted at Cam-
bridge and Brookline ; and the said Brewer supposes, from accounts
he has received, that one Capt. Murray is on the road from Hatfield
hither with a full company :
And that the said Col. Henshaw has returned to us, that he has a
prospect of several companies arriving shortly here, who, he supposes,
would be inclined to serve under him as their chief colonel :
And that general Heath, and Col. Robinson, have made no returns
to us, your committee, of their levies, or whether they are willing to
serve in the said army as colonels :
And upon these facts, your committee are clearly of opinion, that
the safety of the country, and the promoting the public service, make
it highly necessary and expedient, that the said colonels Glover, David
Brewer, VVoodbridge, Little, and Jonathan Brewer, be, without any
delay, commissioned as chief colonels in the army aforesaid : and that
their field officers, captains, and subalterns, be also commissioned, as
soon as a list of them can be settled, inasmuch as your committee are
fully satisfied from good documents, that all the men contained in the
19 regiments already organized, together with all the men levied by
the said Colonels Glover, D. Brewer, VVoodbridge, Little, and Jona-
than Brewer, together with an allowance of 450 men, which may
have been enlisted by general Heath, and the like number by Col.
Robinson, will fall considerably short of amounting to 13,600 men;
and also, because your committee apprehend that this Congress may,
without any injustice to the field officers already commissioned, or any
other, make such orders, that the amount of tlie pay of the whole
340 THIRD PROVINCIAL CONGRESS. [June 16,
army may not be unreasonably enhanced by a greater number of regi-
ments, than, by the last establishment it was intended the army should
consist of; all which is most humbly submitted by your committee.
Joseph Hawley, per order.
Adjourned to Friday morning, 8 o'clock.
Friday, June 16, 1775.
Resolved, That this Congress will take into consideration a resolve
offered to the Congress by the committee of supplies, through the hands
of Major Fuller, relative to supplying the soldiers with rum.
The resolve was accordingly considered and accepted, and is as
follows, viz :
Whereas, by a resolve of Congress, relative to the allowance of sol-
diers, no provision is made for the delivery of rum, or spirituous liquors,
upon extraordinary occasions : Rf solved, That the commanding offi-
cer of the army, the lieutenant general, the major generals, and the
brigadier generals, be, and hereby are respectively empowered, to draw
on the commissary for spirituous liquors, for such soldiers, as from
time to time, they may think necessary to supply therewith ; provided
always, that the said general officers shall not allow any soldiers spirit-
uous liquors as aforesaid, unless upon extraordinary duty, or other-
wise particularly circumstanced.
Ordered, That the Hon. Major Hawley, Hon. Col. Gerrish, Hon.
Col. Warren, Col. Prescott, Col. Farley, Mr. Aiken, and Doct. Hall,
be a committee to consider a resolve of the committee relative to an
augmentation of the army, a supply of arms to the soldiery, &c., and re-
port thereon.
[The] order of the day [was] moved for, for further considering the
report of the committee, respecting the expediency of fitting out some
armed vessels : Voted, that there be a further assignment thereof, viz :
to three o'clock, P. M.
Ordered, That John Row, captain; Mark Pool, lieutenant ; Ebene-
zer Cleveland, ensign ; be commissioned in Col. Bridge's regiment.
Ordered, That Col. Richmond, Doct. Taylor, and Mr. Partridge, be
a committee to draw a complaisant letter to Gen. Whitcomb, to desire
a more explicit answer respecting his acceptance of the post of first
major general, [who reported the following:]
Watertown, June 16, 1775.
Sir: — Your letter wherein you express yourself willing to continue
in the service of this colony, until the army is regulated and properly
encamped, and then rely on a discharge, was read with much concern
1775] THIRD PROVINCIAL CONGRESS. 341
by this Congress, wlio earnestly hope yoii will continue in office till the
conclusion of the campaign, and nuist hetr your furtluT and more ex-
plicit answer.
Col. Jonathan Brewer [was] sworn and commissioned.
Col. David Brewer [was] sworn and commissioned.
Col. Glover [was] sworn and commissioned.
The committee on Col. Henshaw's petition for an allowance for his
journey to Connecticut, reported : [which report was] amended and
accepted, and is as follows, viz :
The committee appointed to consider the within account, beg leave
to report that they think it reasonable to allow Col. Joseph Henshaw,
for his expenses, £4 7s. ; horse travel for him and servant, =£1 5s. ;
time, £'2 I6s. — £8 Ss. ; deduct 25. per day from the sum charged for
the time of Col. Henshaw and his servant, 14s. — £7 14s. Receiver
general directed to pay it. Samuel Harding, Chairman.
Doct. Hall and Doct. Jones were added to the committee to exam-
ine surgeons for the army. Resolved, that any three of said committee
shall be a quorum.
Ordered, That commissions be delivered to two companies in Col.
Nixon's regiment, agreeably to his list exhibited.
[Aflernoon.]
Ordered, That Col. Otis and Mr. Johnson be added to the commit-
tee who were appointed to consider the late extraordinary proclamation
of general Gage.
Ordered, That Mr. Benjamin Ely, be appointed to obtain of the com-
mittee of safety, as soon as possible, a list of such gentlemen ps they
can recommend to be commissioned as officers of the train.
Resolved, That the receiver general be, and hereby is directed to
pay to Col. Joseph Henshaw, the sum of seven pounds, fourteen shil-
lings, in full for his account reported and accepted by the Congress.
Ordered, That commissions be delivered to the following officers of
Col. Nixon's regiment, viz : Capt. Ebenezer Winship, Lieut. William
Warren, Ensign Richard Buckminster.
Ordered, That Mr. Orne, Mr. Glover, and Major Brooks, be a com-
mittee to consider what may be done with respect to such vessels as
are now ready to sail, with fish on board, there being a resolve of this
Congress against the exportation of fish, &.C.; and in particular the cases
of Mr. Ellis Gray and Richard Hinckley which has been laid before
this Congress.
342 THIRD PROVINCIAL CONGRESS. [June 16,
The committee on the violation of the Sabbath reported ; [which re-
port was] accepted, and is as follows, viz :
As it has pleased Almighty God in his providence, to suffer the ca-
lamities of an unnatural war to take place among us, in consequence
of our sinful declensions from him, and our great abuse of those inval-
uable blessings bestowed upon us : and as we have reason to fear, that
unless we become a penitent and reformed people, we shall feel still se-
verer tokens of the divine displeasure : and as the most effectual way
to escape those desolating judgments which so evidently hang over us,
and if it may be, obtain the restoration of our former tranquillity, will
be, that we repent and return, every one from his iniquities, unto Him
that correcteth us ; which, if we do in sincerity and truth, we have no
reason to doubt but he will remove his judgments, cause our enemies
to be at peace with us, and prosper the work of our hands : and as,
among the prevailing sins of this day, which threaten the destruction
of this land, we have reason to lament the frequent profanations of
the Lord's day or the Christian Sabbath ; many spending their time in
idleness or sloth, others in diversions, and others in journeying, or bu-
siness, which is not necessary on said day : and as we earnestly desire
that a stop might be put to this great and prevailing evil, it is therefore
Resolved, that it be recommended by this Congress to the people of all
ranks and denominations throughout this colony, that they not only pay
a religious regard to that day, and to the public worship of God thereon,
but that they also use their influence to discountenance and suppress
any profanation thereof in others : and it is further Resolved, that it be
recommended to the ministers of the gospel, to read this resolve to their
several congregations, accompanied with such exhortations as they
shall think proper : and whereas, there is great danger that the profa-
nation of the Lord's day will prevail in the camp, we earnestly recom-
mend to all the officers, not only to set good examples, but that they
strictly require of their soldiers to keep up a religious regard to that
day, and attend upon the public worship of God thereon, so far as may
be consistent with other duties.
Ordered, That the foregoing resolve be printed in hand bills, and
sent to the several ministers in each town and district in the colony.
General Heath and Col. Robinson returned a list of their companies,
and whereas there are several of the same companies returned in each,
Ordered, that Mr. Batchelder, Mr. Durfee, Major Perley, Major Fuller
of Middleton, Major Bliss, be a committee to consider of the same,
and report.
A further time was assigned to make choice of brigadier generals,
1775.] THIRD PROVINCIAL CONGRESS. M'.i
quarter masters general, and adjutants general, viz. : to-iriorrow morn-
ing, eleven o'clock.
Col. Cottin, Mr. Stephen Hail and Col. Davis, were chosen a com-
mittee to consider the petition of James Kirkwood.
The committee on tiie petition of Ellis G'ray and Richard Hinckley,
&.C., reported : the two reports were accepted, and are as follow :
The committee appointed to take under consideration the petition of
Messrs. Ellis Gray and Richard Hinckley, relative to eighty hogsheads
of Jamaica cod fish, laden on two vessels bound to the West Indies ; the
one of which would have sailed before the resolve of this honorable
Congress forbidding the exportation of fish was published, had she not
been detained by the elopement of her hands, beg leave to report : that
being fully convinced, from the accounts given us by Mr. Gray and
Mr. Hinckley, that the fish those gentlemen were about to export, is
of such a kind, being old Jamaica fish, as, if detained, cannot possibly
be of any advantage to this colony, but must perish, the colony being
plentifully supplied with new fish, that permission be given by this
Congress, to the owners of said vessels, for their proceeding on their
voyages ; provided, there is no other kind of provision on board, ex-
cept what is for the ship's use; and further, that toleration be given to
all other owners of vessels, for their departure, who shall convince this
Congress, or a committee thereof, that their vessels and cargoes are in
the same predicament, as no possible advantage can accrue from their
detention. J. Orne, 2)cr order.
The committee appointed to examine the bearer of a certificate from
Nevvburyport, setting forth, that Jonathan Titcomb and Stephen Hoop-
er, Esq., of Newburyport, have shipped on board two vessels, 130
hogsheads of Jamaica fish, which is said to be old fish, beg leave to
report : that they are fully convinced, the fish above mentioned is of
such a kind as is expressed in the certificate, and that the vessels who
have laden it, have no other provisions but a supply for the ship's use;
and, as such, are of opinion that the owners of said vessels be tolerated
to despatch them on their voyages, agreeably to a resolve of this Con-
gress just now past, granting indulgence to the owners of vessels in
such predicament for so doing. J. Orne, per order.
The committee appointed to consider a late extraordinary proclama-
tion, signed, Thomas Gage, reported [as follows:]
[In Provincial Congress, Waiertoivn, June 16, 1775.]
[^Resolved, That the following proclamation be signed by the presi-
dent, printed and published throughout this colony.]
344 THIRD PROVINCIAL CONGRESS. [June 16,
[Bi/ the Provincial Congress.]
[The confidence which our countrymen have reposed in us, lays us
under the strongest obligation to watch and guard against all the ma-
lignant designs of their inveterate enemies.]
[That the British administration have formed, and have been for sev-
eral years executing, a plan to enslave this and the other American
colonies, is a proposition so evident, that it would be an affront to the
understanding of mankind to adduce proofs in support of it. We shall
therefore only advert to those unhappy circumstances, which have been
the immediate causes of plunging this people into the horrors of war
and desolation. When a fleet and army were sent forth to deprive us
of every thing that man holds dear : when the capital of this colony
became a garrison, and fortifications were erected upon the only land
entrance into the metropolis : when the commander of the army so far
manifested his designs against us, as to send out his soldiers in the
night, to remove the public magazines of the colony from their safe
lodgment in the country, and place them under the command of a for-
eign army : when he evidenced his enmity to the liberties of this coun-
try, by sending a detachment from that army against the peaceable
inhabitants of one of our principal towns, only because they were
assembled, quietly to concert measures to save themselves from ruin :
when we were totally deprived of the benefit of a legislative body :
when the whole system of distributive justice was so mutilated, that
there could be no reason to hope for any advantages from it : wiien an
act of parliament was passed, which the general of the army resolved
to execute, by which our countrymen were given up as a prey to a
lawless soldiery, who were screened from punishment here, for the mur-
ders they might commit : in fine, when the army and navy breathed
nothing but blood and slaughter, and all our accounts from England
but too strongly proved the inhuman intentions of those in power ; it
became us as men, as freemen and as christians, to take some steps to
preserve our own lives and properties, as well as to secure the inheri-
tance, purchased at no less a price than the blood of many thousand
of our brave ancestors, entire and undiminished for succeeding genera-
tions. The Congress, whom this people then chose, recommended it
to them, to provide themselves with such articles for their defence as
the law of the land required, and further recommended it to them, to
appropriate some part of their property for the purchasing such stores,
to be laid up in public magazines, as might be useful for the general
defence, in case an attack should be made upon us by the army. The
recommendation was cheerfully complied with, and stores were pro-
1775] THIRD PROVINCIAL CONGRESS. :J45
cured, in the most peuceable and quiet manner, and deposited in ma;r.
azines, where they were to have continued without the least injury or
dij^turhance to any one, unless drawn out by necessity, to save the
country from destruction. But the possibility of our making resistance
to the bloody schemes of our adversaries was the source of continual
terror to the traitors, wiiose aim was to enslave this country, and gen-
eral Gage, after many little pilferings, and several humiliating disap-
pointments in his attempts to rob the people, at length determined to
destroy the. magazines at Concord ; he sent the grenadiers and detach-
ments of light infantry of every regiment, about one thousand in
number, secretly, by night, over Charles river. On their way, some
of the officers captured, and otherwise infamously abused several
of the inhabitants, and, when the body arrived at Lexington meeting-
house, which was very early in the morning of the ever memorable
nineteeth of April, they, in a most barbarous and infamous manner,
fired upon a small number of the inhabitants, and cruelly murdered
eight men. The fire was returned by some of the survivors, but
their number was too inconsiderable to annoy the regular troops, who
proceeded on their errand, and, upon coming up to Concord, began
to destroy, by fire and water, the stores and magazines, until a party
of them again fired upon and killed two more of the inhabitants.
The native bravery of our countrymen could now no longer be re-
strained ; a small party, consisting of about two or three hundred men,
attacked them with such spirit and resolution as compelled them soon
to retreat. At Lexington, they met a reenforcement of regular troops,
consisting of about eight hundred, with two field pieces, commanded
by Lord Percy ; this, however, did not encourage them to keep their
ground : but they continued their route towards Charlestown, marking
their way with every species of desolation and cruelty which their haste
would permit. The burning and robbing of houses, the abuses and
barbarities offered to defenceless women and children, the wanton
slaughter of the aged and helpless, will be perpetual memorials of
the base spirit which actuated the perpetrators. Upon their arrival at
Charlestown, our countrymen quitted the pursuit, and the next day
suffered them, without annoyance, to cross the river, and return to
Boston. This action of the troops destroyed every hope of coming to
any accommodation with them ; we, therefore, were compelled to raise
an army to prevent such bloody excursions in future ; an army is, there-
fore, raised and appointed for that purpose, and we are, with the greatest
reluctance, obliged to declare, that we havp now nothing to depend upon,
under God, to preserve America from slavery and destruction, but our
44
346 THIRD PROVINCIAL CONGRESS. [June 16,
own arms. To these we have been forced to make our appeal, and by
these we are determined to maintain our rights : and we are obliged to
declare, and do now puljjicly declare, all persons, who shall afford
any aid, assistance, or relief, or hold any manner of communication of
any kind whatsoever, with general Gage, admiral Graves, or the army,
or navy, or any one of those now under their command, who are sta-
tioned in our metropolis and the harbor of Boston, or elsewhere, or any
persons who are known, or shall hereafter be known, to have afforded
such aid, or to have had such communication with them, or either of
them, to be enemies and traitors to their country, and they shall be
proceeded against and treated as such; excepting only, such of the un-
happy inhabitants of Boston, as have, by a treacherous and most infa-
mous breach of faith in general Gage, been prevented from removing
out of the town of Boston, whose peculiar circumstances this Congress
will, at all times, make due allowance for, so long as they shall avoid
doing any thing to obstruct or counteract such steps as this Congress
shall think fit to take ; but the said inhabitants are strictly forbidden,
whatever may be the consequence of their refusal, to be in any, the
least degree, instrumental in assisting the enemy, or opposing the
country, as they would avoid the penalties due to the enemies thereof.
From a real tenderness to our fellow men, we most sincerely regret the
unhappy situation of the soldiery and sailors in the army and navy now
stationed in the town and harbor of Boston, and assure them, upon
that faith, which never has been, and we trust never will be violated,
that, upon their quitting the infamous service in which they are, as
we must in charity suppose, contrary to their own inclinations and
principles engaged ; we will receive them as brethren and fellow sub-
jects, and protect them against every attempt that may be made by our
enemies to force them again into the disgraceful and inhuman service,
in which they are now employed.]
[And, that our earnest desire to discover our tender regard to our
few misguided fellow countrymen, and our readiness to forgive even
those who have knowingly offended, we do promise and engage a full
and free pardon to all persons who have fled to the town of Boston for
refuge, and to other public offenders against the rights and liberties of
this country, of what kind or denomination soever ; excepting only
from the benefit of such pardon, Thomas Gage, Samuel Graves ; those
counsellors who were appointed by mandamus and have not signified
their resignation, viz., Jonathan Sewall, Charles Paxton, Benjamin
Hallowell ; and all the natives of America, not belonging to the navy or
army, who went out with the regular troops on the nineteenth of April
1775] THIRD PROVINCIAL CONGRESS. 347
last, and were countenancing, aiding, and assisting them in the robber-
ies and murders then committed; whose offences are of too flagitious a
nature to admit of any other consideration than that of condign pun-
islinient : provided, they take the benefit hereof, by making a surren-
der of themselves to any general officer belonging to the Massachusetts
army, and subscribe a declaration of their readiness to comply with,
support, and abide by, all the resolutions and determinations which are
already made by this or any former Congress, or that shall hereafter be
made by this or any future Congress, or house of representatives of this
colony, within thirty days from the date hereof. And it is earnestly
enjoined upon the selectmen, committees of correspondence, commit-
tees of safety, and all other officers, of every town in this colony, that
they use their utmost diligence to discover and make known to this
Congress, any person or persons, who shall, in any respect, attempt to
do any thing tending to render ineffectual their designs and doings ;
and we trust, that the God of armies, on whom we rely for a blessing
upon our arms, which we have taken up in support of the great and
fundamental principles of natural justice and the common and indefea-
sible rights of mankind, will guide and direct us in our designs ; and
at last, in infinite goodness to this his injured people, restore peace
and freedom to the American world.]
Voted, That Tuesday next, ten o'clock before noon, be assigned for
the further consideration thereof.
Ordered, That Mr. Lolhrop, Col. Grout and Mr. Crane, be a com-
mittee to fill commissions for the field officers of the regiment of artil-
lery, as recommended by the committee of safety.
Resolved, That a commission be made out for Mr. Heath, as colonel
of a regiment of the Massachusetts army.
Resolved, That Deacon Plympton be appointed to countersign the
small notes, instead of Col. Richmond.
The committee appointed to consider the application of president
Lancrdon, reported; which report was accepted, and is as follows, viz. :
Resolved, That it be and hereby is recommended to as many of the
overseers of Harvard College as can be called together, under the pres-
ent circumstances of the college and the country, to meet and join with
the corporation of said college, in conferring academical degrees at the
approaching season of the annual commencement, on such candidates
as may offer themselves and be judged qualified for the same ; and to
transact any other important matters relative to that society, in the
348 THIRD PROVINCIAL CONGRESS. [June 17,
same manner, and to all intents and purposes, as the whole body of
the overseers might do, if present.
Voted, That the receiver general, Henry Gardner, Esq., as also
Deacon Plympton, have leave of absence from to-morrow afternoon un-
til Monday morning.
, Adjourned till eight o'clock to-morrow morning.
Saturday, June 17, 1775.
The committee on account of Mrs. Coolidge, reported : the report
was ordered to lie on the table, till the president came into Congress.
The Congress granted leave of absence to Mr. J. Orne, being bound
on a journey to Philadelphia.
The committee appointed to take into consideration the property of
some persons, who have left their habitations in sundry towns in this
colony, and also have discovered themselves to be enemies to the rights
of this colony and the continent, &c., reported.
Ordered, That Mr. Edwards, Col. Thompson and Col. Glover, be a
committee to consider upon the expediency and means of procuring
fire arms and powder from Philadelphia, and elsewhere ; which com-
mittee reported : the report was read and accepted, and is as follows,
viz. :
The committee appointed to consider upon the expediency and
means of procuring fire arms and powder from Philadelphia and else-
where, and to report in the form of a resolve, report accordingly :
Resolved, That the committee of supplies be directed to employ Mr.
Joshua Orne, a member of this Congress, for this end, and that they,
by letter, desire that the honorable Continental Congress would be
pleased to grant to Mr. Orne their aid in the premises.
The committee appointed to take into consideration the resolve of
the committee of safety, respecting the augmentation of the army, and
supplying the army with arms, &-c., reported in part; the report was
considered and accepted, and is as follows, viz. :
Whereas, the hostile incursions this country is exposed to, and the
frequent alarms we may expect from the military operations of our en-
emies, make it necessary that the good people of this colony be on
their guard, and prepared at all times to resist their attacks, and to aid
and assist their brethren : therefore. Resolved, that it be, and hereby is
recommended to the militia, in all parts of this colony, to hold them-
selves in readiness to march at a minute's warning, to the relief of any
place that may be attacked, or to the support of our army, with at least
twenty cartridges, or rounds of powder and ball ; and, to prevent all
1775] THIRD PROVINCIAL CONGRESS tllO
confusion or dolnv, it is fiirtlier roronniifiulrd to tlic inhabitants of
this colony living on the sea coasts, (»r within twenty iiiih-s of them,
that they carry tlieir arms and annnunition witli thcin to ineetinj; on
the sabbath, and fitiier days wliiii they meet for public worship
Ri\<ofv('(l, That all vacancies occasioned by the officers {,'oiii;; into
the army, or otherwise, in the several re<riments of militia, be immedi-
ately filled u]) : and it is recommended to the regiments, where such
vacancies are, to sujjply them, in mainier and form as prescribed by
the resolutions of Congress.
Ordered, That the resolve before mentioned, brought in by said
committee last mentioned, be innnediately printed in handbills, and
that the number be three hundred.
Voted, That Capt. Goodman, Mr. Brown, and Major Bliss, be and
hereby are appointed a committee, to get said three lumdred handbills
printed, and distribute the same to the sever;d towns and districts in
this colony.
Resolvt'd, That Doct. Moses Gunn, be and hereby is appointed to
countersign the large notes, instead of the Hon. Joseph Warren, Esq.
Col. Jonathan Brewer's list of officers in his regiment, was presented :
Ordered, that a commission be delivered to each of the said officers,
except to Joseph Stebbins, who has but 21 men in his company.
Col. David Brewer's list of officers in his regiment, was presented :
Ordered, that a commission be delivered to each of said officers.
Resolved, That Capt. Holmes, Major Brooks, and Capt. Smith, be a
committee to confer with the printers, Edes, Hall, and Thomas, and
know of them respectively, upon what terms they will print handbills,
and also such pieces as may be desired by this Congress to be put in
the weekly papers, and make report to this Congress in writing, with
all convenient speed.
The petition of sundry persons from Egamagon Reach was read, and
committed to the committee on the state of the sea coasts, [who re-
ported as follows :]
On the petition of a number of the inhabitants of Egamagon Reach,
No. 4., so called, praying for a small supply of provisions :
Resolved, That it be recommended by this Congress to the com-
mittee of safety of the town of Salem, or to the like committee or com-
mittees of correspondence of any other towns within this province, to
supply Messrs. Robert Byard and Alexander Greenlaw, of said Ega-
magon Reach, No. 4., for the present relief of the said inhabitants,
with the following articles, viz. : forty bushels of Indian corn, and five
barrels of pork ; and take in return for the same, cord wood, or such
350 THIRD PROVINCIAL CONGRESS. [June 17,
other payment as the said Robert Byard, and Alexander Greenlaw,
may be able to make ; and hi case they, the said Bayard and Green-
law, should not make satisfaction for the same, in a reasonable time, it
shall be allowed and paid out of the public treasury of this province,
and the said Byard and Greenlaw shall refund the same as soon
as may be.
Several of the committee who were appointed to consider the state
and circumstances of the sea-coasts, viz. : Hon. Mr. Sever, Hon. Mr.
Spooner, Col. Cutt, and Capt. Maynard, being absent. Ordered, that
Major Hall, Mr. Aiken, Capt. Morton, and Capt. King, be appointed
in their stead.
Resolved, That the vote for choosing brigadier generals from the
colonels who have been commissioned by this Congress, be so far re-
considered, as that Col. Heath, though he has not yet received his com-
mission, may be eligible to that office.
The committee appointed to consider the resolutions of the commit-
tee of safety, reported the following resolve and schedule, which were
accepted .
Whereas, some of the inhabitants of the new plantations in this col-
ony, not incorporated, and some of the inhabitants of the neighboring
colonies, together with a number of the late inhabitants of the town of
Boston, have enlisted into the army now raising in this colony, to whom
the resolve of Congress, dated May 9, IITS, empowering the selectmen
to supply the inhabitants of their respective towns with arms, &/C.,did
not extend ; and, by that means, many of such men are not provided
with sufficient arms : therefore, Resolved, that the inhabitants of the
several towns and districts in the counties specified in a list hereunto
annexed, who may have good and sufficient firelocks, be and hereby are
most earnestly advised, as soon as possible, to provide and deliver to
such person or persons as are to be now appointed by this Congress to
receive the same, the full number of good, effective firelocks, specified
in the said list for each town and district to supply, for which firelocks
every owner thereof shall receive such sum, in the billsof credit of this
colony, as the person or persons now to be appointed by this Congress
to receive such firelock, and the owner thereof, shall agree to be the
value of the same, within forty days after the delivery of such firelock.
For all which firelocks delivered as aforesaid, the person to be ap-
pointed by this Congress to receive the same, shall give his receipt
therefor in the form following :
1775.] THIRD PROVINCIAL CONGRESS. 361
'll(f (Jdij of 177.>.
Received of A. B. lirelock , to tlie uscoftlie colony of the Mas-
sachusetts Bay, of the value of ; which sum the receiver general
of the said colony is directed, in forty days after the date hereof, to pay
to the said A. B. or order, in bills of credit of this colony.
And the said receiver general, upon such receipt being produced to
him, is empowered and required to pay, out of the treasury of this col-
ony, the sum specified in such receipt, in the bills of credit aforesaid,
to the person named therein, or his order; and, furthermore, the se-
lectmen and committees of correspondence of the several towns and
districts aforesaid, are hereby most earnestly requested to afford all pos-
sible aid and assistance to the persons to be appointed by this Con-
gress, to procure the said firelocks ; that so the said arms may be sup-
plied to our army with the greatest expedition. And the persons to be
appointed to procure said firelocks, are hereby severally empowered and
directed to employ such wagoners and teamsters as shall be necessary,
with great despatch, to convey the same to the army, and to order the
receiver general of this colony to pay, out of the treasury of the same,
in bills of credit as aforesaid, such sums as they shall agree on and
draw for ; and the said receiver general is hereby authorized and di-
rected to pay the orders so drawn.
Worcester County. — Worcester, 30 ; Lancaster, 32; Mendon, 24;
Brookfield, 31 ; Oxford, 11 ; Charlton, 11 ; Sutton, 31 ; Leices-
ter, 12; Spencer, 10 ; Paxton, 6 ; Rutland, 15; Oakham, 6 ;
Hubbardston, 2 ; New Braintree, 10 ; Southborough, 12 ; West-
borough, 12; Northborough, 8; Lunenburg, 16; Fitchburg,
6; Uxbridge, 11; Northbridge, 5 ; Harvard, 16 ; Dudley, 10 ;
Hutchinson, 13 ; Bolton, 15 ; Upton, 6 ; Shrewsbury, 22 ; Stur-
bridge, 12; Leominster, 12 ; Hardwick, 17 ; Western, 11 ; Hol-
den, 8: Douglass, 7 ; Grafton, 12; Petersham, 12 ; Royal-
ston, 2; Westminster, 10; Athol, 6 ; Templeton, 8 ; Princeton,
8; Ashburnhara, 3 ; Winchendon, 3 ; . . . 514
Hampshire. — Springfield, 26; West Springfield, 25 ; Wilbraham,
11; Northampton, 25 ; Southampton, 10; Hadley, 11 ; South
Hadley, 9 ; Amherst, 12 ; Granby, 7 ; Hatfield, 14 ; Westfield,
19; Deerfield, 15; Greenfield, 10; Sunderland, 9 ; Montague,
8 ; Northfield, 10 ; Brimfield, 15 ; South Brimfield, 10 ; Mon-
son, 8; Pelham, 14 ; Blandford,9; Palmer, 11; Granville, 16:
New Salem, 9; Warwick, 5 ; Ashfield, 8 ; Southwick,8; 334
352 THIRD PROVINCIAL CONGRESS. [June 17,
Suffolk. — Wrenthara, 25 ; Medway, 10 ; Bellingham, 6; Walpole,
4 ; Medfield, 4 ; . . . . . . 49
Middlesex. — Marlborough, 20 ; Littleton, 6 ; Hopkinton, 9 ; West-
ford, 6; Groton, 7; Shirley, 2; Pepperell, 4; Townsend, 4 ;
Dracut, 5; Acton, 5 ; Dunstable, 5; Tewksbury, 4 ; Chelms-
ford, 7; Billerica, 7; Stow, 4; Framingham, 3; Wilming-
ton, 4 ; . . . . . . . 102
Plymouth. — Bridgewater, 25 ; Middleborough, 16 ; , 41
Bristol. — Attleborough, 10; Rehoboth, 15; . . 25
Worcester, 514 ; Hampshire, 334 ; Suffolk, 49 ; Middlesex, 102 ;
Plymouth, 41 ; Bristol, 25 ; total, . . . 1065
Resolved, That four o'clock, P. M. be assigned for choosing com-
mittees to receive and purchase fire arms agreeably to the foregoing re-
solve.
Alteriioou.
A letter from the president of the Continental Congress, and a re-
solve containing several recommendations to this and the other colo-
nies, and two letters, one to the Lieut. Gov. of Rhode Island, and one
to the Provincial Congress of New Hampshire, brought express by Mr.
Fessenden, were read; whereupon. Ordered, that Capt. Morton take
charge of the letter to New Hampshire, and Mr. Slead that to Rhode
Island, to deliver them immediately, and return to the Congress as soon
as m ay be.
Resolved, That the Hon. Col. Warren, Hon. Major Hawley, Hon.
Col. Gerrish, Mr. Gerry, Col. Prescott, Deacon Cheever, Capt. iBrown,
and Capt. Robinson, and the secretary of the Congress, be a commit-
tee to notify and call together the members of this Congress in any
extraordinary emergency, at any other time, or to any other place,
than [that] to which it may stand adjourned.
The order of the day [was] moved for :
Whereupon, committees were chosen to purchase arms agreeably to
the resolve passed in the forenoon : the names of the committees cho-
sen are expressed in the following resolve, viz. :
For the county of Worcester: Capt. William Page of Hardwick,
Capt. Abiel Saddler of Upton, Mr. Hennnenway of Shrewsbury : — For
the county of Hampshire: Major Benjamin S. Ely of West Spring-
1775.] TirrilT) IMlOVfNCIAL CONGRESS. .ly.i
field, Major John Blis.s of Iladley : — /•'»/• t/ir roiinti/ of Suffolk : (Japt.
Lemuel Kollock of Wreiitliaiii : — For tlw cottntt/ of iMiddtist/ : Col.
Simeon Spiuilding of Chclin.sford, Capt. Josiali Stone of Framingham :
— For tli: rountfi of Plj/inouth : Major El)ene/.er While of Rochester :
— For the rouniy of Bristol: Col. George Williams of Taunton.
Adjourned to Sunday morning, eight o'clock.
Sdkdat, June 18, 1775.
Resolved, That the records and pa|)ors of the Provincial Congress
be secured and taken care of, at the discretion of the secretary ; and
that the committee of supplies be, and hereby are directed, to procure
a horse for the secretary, that he may have one ready for that purpose
on any emergency.
A petition from the committee of Waldoborough for powder, was
read ; whereupon. Resolved, that the petitioners have leave to with-
draw their petition.
Ordered, That Mr. Lothrop appoint some messenger to go to Doct.
Church, for the letters it is said he has brought from Philadelphia.
Ordered, That Major Hawley, Col. Warren, Mr. Kollock, Mr. Ed-
wards, Col. Gcrrish, Doct. Church and Col. Otis, be a committee to
prepare a letter to the Continental Congress on the late attack of the
king's troops at Bunker's hill, &.C., and such other matters as they
may think proper, and report to this Congress : and also that they take
into consideration a letter from the president of the Continental Con-
gress, and several recommendations of the said Continental Congress
therein enclosed, received by Mr. Fessenden, and another letter from
the said president, with a resolve enclosed relative to a mode of gov-
ernment for this colony ; and also to inquire of the committee of sup-
plies, what steps they have taken to procure powder from the other
governments of New England.^
(1) The letters of the Hon. John Hancock, president of tho Continental Congress, with the reso-
lutions enclosed, except that inserted in the journal, are copied below. The despatches for the
governments of Rhode Island and Now Hampshire, covered transcripts of the same documents.
" PHIL.\DELPH1A, June lOth, 1775
" GENTLE.MEN : — In consequence of your application to this Congress for advice respecting a
form of government to be adopted in the .Massachusetts Bay, under your present circumstances, I
am directed by the Congress to transmit you their resolution thereon, which is here enclosed. 1
am also to inform you that the Congress have been so pressed with business, that they have
been prevented determining upon the other matters mentioned in your letters to them : but they
will very soon come under their consideration, and their resolutions thereon shall be forwarded
to you."
" I also enclose you a resolve of Congress, for furnishing our army with Hour ; this you will keep
»ecret, at loast as fur as the nature of it will admit, as the publication may give an alarm, which
may prevent the good eftects of it."
" Last evening, Mr. Fessenden, your express, arrived, with your despatches of June 4tli, which I
45
354 THIRD PROViNCIAJ. CONGRESS. [June 18,
Ordered, That the committee of supplies be directed to write to
Rhode Island and New Hampshire, touching the article of powder ;
also to send to each of said governments a copy of the recommenda-
tions of the Provincial Congress.
sHhU this mornin? lay before the Congress, and, when considered by Congress, their determination
shall be immediately transmitted you."
" I am, with much esteem, gentlemen, your most obedient, humble servant,
JOHN HANCOCK, President."
" To the gentlemen of the Provincial Congress, JUassachtisetts Bay."
" In Congress, June 9th, 1775.
" Resolved, That the Provincial Convention of New York be requested to convey, as soon as possi-
ble, to Providence, in Rhode Island, or to any port in the government of Massachusetts Bay, five
thousand barrels of flour, for the use of the continental army."
" That the committee of correspondence at Providence, or in the government of Massachusetts
Bay, where the said flour may be carried, be desired to receive the same, and to forward it to the
camp before Boston, as soon as may be, and to lodge such parts thereof as cannot immediately be
sent thither, in places of security."
" That this Congress wili make provision for defraying the expenses incurred for this service."
" Secret as the nature of it will admit, for fear of an alarm being given, and a stop. J. H."
"PHILADELPHIA, June 10th, 1775.
" GENTLEMEN :— By order of the Congress, I transmit you the inclosed resolutions, passed by
the Congress this morning. The necessity of the present emergency re(|uires a speedy compliance
with the first, and I need not inform you that the nature of the service requires it to be done with
as much secrecy as possible."
" I am also directed by the Congress to request you will please to transmit to them, as soon as
may be, an estimate of the powder, arms, and ammunition in your colony, including private as well
as public stocks."
" By Doctor Church, this morning, I forwarded you the resolution of Congress respecting the
mode of government."
" I am your most obedient servant,
JOHN HANCOCK, President."
'« The inclosed letters for the lieutenant governor of Rhode Island, and the gentlemen of New-
Hampshire, please immediately, on receipt, to send off" by express ; pray don't fail."
" To the members of the Provinciul Congress, Massachisetts Bay."
" In Congress, June 10, 1775.
"The Congress earnestly recommend to the several colonies of New Hampshire, Rhode Island,
Connectic\it, and the internal towns of the Massachusetts Bay, that they immediately furnish the
American army before Boston, with as much powder, out of their town and other public stocks, as
they can possibly spare, keeping an exact account of the quantity supplied, that it may he again re-
placed or paid for by the continent : this to be eflTected with the utmost secrecy and despatch."
" Resolved, That it be recommended to the committees of the several towns and districts of Mas-
sachusetts Bay, New Hampshire, Rhode Island, Connecticut, New York, and the eastern division
of New Jersey, to collect all the saltpetre and brimstone in their several towns and districts, and
transmit the same, with all possible despatch, to the Provincial Congress of New York."
" That it be recommended to the Provincial Congress of New York, to have the powder mills in
that colony put into such a condition, as immediately to manufacture into powder, for the use of the
continent, whatever materials may bo procured in the manner above directed."
" Resolved, That it be recommended to the several inhabitants of the colonies, who are possessed
of saltpetre and sulphur for their own use, to dispose of them, for the purpose of manufacturing
gunpowder."
" Rcsolred, That the saltpetre and sulphur, to bo collected in consequence of the resolves of
Congress for that purpose, be paid for out of the continental fund."
" A true copy fiora the minutei. CHA'S THOMPSON, See'y."
1775.] THIKI) PROVINCIAL CONGRESS. :r,r>
I VllrriHi'll I
Ordered, That Col. Thurston, Col. Parks and Uoct. Corbett, be a
committee to consider a petition from Egamagon Reach ; and also a
petition from Deer Island, [for supplies of provisions.]
Adjourned to Monday morning, eight o'clock.
MoNDAT, June 19, 1775.
Ordered, Tliat Mr. Uonney, Mr. Foster and Col. Thompson, be and
hereby are appointed a committee to repair immediately to Cambridge,
and inquire what methods are taking to supply the army at the intrench-
ments with victuals and drink, and take effectual care that they be well
supplied without delay.
Ordered, That Col. Parks, Deacon Fairbanks and Doct. Whiting,
be, and hereby are appointed a committee to take into consideration a
letter from General Ward, respecting the supplying the soldiers with
blankets and other articles lost in battle, also for providing spears for
defence.^
Doct. Hall, Doct. Jones and Mr. Bigelow, were appointed a com-
mittee to consider the expediency of establishing another hospital for
the sick and wounded of the army, and ordered to sit forthwith.
Deacon Bailey, Capt. Goodman and Mr. Fisher, were appointed a
committee, to inquire of the committee of supplies, how far they have
proceeded to supply the soldiery with blankets, &c., and make report.
Capt. Goodrich, Mr. Aikin and Capt. Dwight, were appointed to
consider a letter from the Hon. Jedediah Preble and Hon. Enoch
Freeman, respecting Col. Phiney's regiment being commissioned for
the defence of the sea coasts.-
(1) Two letters were received from Gen. Ward, on the 19tli of June, addressed to the president
of Congress.
'' CWMBRIDGE, June 19, 1775.
" SIR : — The honorable Congress am hereby informed, that, in the late action, many of the soldiers
lost their blankets and clothes ; they are now in a very suffering condition on that account, and
must, in order to tit them for duty, bo immediately supplied, especially with blankets; and maoy
that were not in the action aie destitute of blankets."
" It is requested, that the troops may be supplied also with a large number of spears or lances, for
defending the breastworks. In the late action, spears might have saved the intrenchment.
By order of the general. JOSEPH WARD, Sec'ry."
" HEAD aUARTERS, June 19, 1775.
" SIR:— T must earnestly entreat the Congress to furnish the train of artillery, with a company
of artificers immediately, as the army suft'ers greatly for want of them. This ought to hive been
one of the first establishments, and I hope the Congress will not delay the matter a day longer.
I am, sir, your most obedient, lium'de servant,
ARTEMAS WARD."
(2) The letter from the Hon. Jedediah Preble and Hon. Enoch Freeman follows :
" FALMOUTH, June 14, 1773.
" HONORED SIR :— These v/a)t on you by Colonel Phlney, who informt us, he ha» ordered the
356 THIRD PROVINCIAL CONGRESS. [June 19,
The committee appointed to consider the expediency of establishing
certain officers for taking care of the ordnance stores, viz., storekeep-
er, conductors, and clerk ; also, the establishment of a company of ar-
tificers, &LC., reported: the report was amended and accepted, and is
as follows, viz. :
The committee appointed to consider the expediency of establishing
certain officers for taking care of the ordnance stores ; also what arti-
ficers, and the number, that may be necessary for the army, and in
what way they shall be established, have attended that service, and beg
leave to report as follows ; That, in addition to the storekeeper al-
ready appointed by this Congress, there be established four conduc-
tors of stores, and two clerks for the ordnance department ; and a
company of artificers, to consist of a master carpenter or overseer,
with 49 privates; and the committee of safety be desired to recom-
mend to this Congress, fit persons for the offices abovenamed ; and if
any such privates, who are now engaged in either of the regiments of
the Massachusetts army, are inclined to join the abovesaid company,
they may have leave so to do, they relinquishing their pay as soldiers,
from the time they engage as artificers, and be equipt with fire arms,
and accoutrements ; and the overseer, when appointed, be ordered to
consult the chief engineer with respect to the number of each kind of
artificers that may be necessary, and that he complete his company,
and make return thereof to this Congress, with all possible despatch.
Your committee, furthermore, beg leave to report an establishment for
the officers and privates above mentioned, viz, :
The storekeeper, $80 per month : four conductors, each §48 do. :
one master carpenter, or overseer, $80 do. : two clerks, each §48 do. :
49 privates, they to find their own tools, $50 do. each. All which is
humbly submitted. Elisha Parks, per order.
Resolved, That three o'clock, P. M., be assigned for the choice of a
president of this Congress, in the room of the Hon. Joseph Warren,
Esq., supposed to be killed in the late battle of Bunker Hill.
The committee appointed to take into consideration the resolve of
men lately enlisted in thia county, to guard the sea coasts and islands within said county, to secure
the cattle and she ep from the ravages of cruisers from the navy : but, as no provision is made for
their subsistence, it cannot be expected they can continue to do duty without. We refer you to
Colonel Phiney for particulars. Four Indian chiefs arrived here this day, with Captain Lane,
from the Penobscot tribe. Wo hope their expectations will be answered, which will l^y a founda-
tion for the securing to our interest the whole tribe."
"We are, honored sir, your most obedient, humble servants,
JEDEDIAH PREBLE,
ENOCH FREEMAN."
Hon, Jotepk tVarren, £:iij,, to be communicated.
1775.] 'IMIIKD I'llOVINCIAL CONGRKSS. :r,7
the lionorable Continental Congress, respecting llic nietliod of pstab-
lishing civil govcrninont in this colony, reported : [The report was]
read and debated, and Rrsolvrd, that the fnrther consideration of said
report be put ofi" nntil Doct. Cliiircli, who was at Philadelphia at the
time said resolve of the Continental Congress passed, shall be present.
The committee appointed to take into consideration a letter from
General Ward, respecting supplying the soldiers with blanket.'?, &.c,,
lost in battle, and providing spears &c., reported : The report was re-
committed.
Col. Prescott and Mr. Wheeler, were added to the committee cho-
sen to fill up commissions for the ofRcers of the army.
Afiernoon.
[The] order of the day [was] moved for.
Ordered, That Col. Prescott, Doct. Hall, and Col. Otis, be a com-
mittee to receive, sort, and count, the votes for a President.
The committee having attended that service, reported, that the Hon.
James Warren, was chosen.
Resolved, That nine o'clock to-morrow morning, be assigned for the
consideration of the report olthe committee on the establishing armed
vessels.
The committee appointed to inquire of the committee of supplies,
what they had done relative to providing blankets and coats, reported,
verbally ; that they had conformed to the resolve of Congress relative
thereto, and looked upon it to be their duty, to pay such orders as the
selectmen might draw on them for the blankets they should purchase,
but that they had only paid one town as yet.
Resolved, That the same committee report to this Congress, the
price proper to be given for blankets throughout the whole colony, and
tliat the committee of supplies be directed to suspend the payments for
blankets till some further day, and that the said committee bring in a
resolve expressive of the reason thereof
The committee appointed to consider the expediency of establishing
another hospital for the army, reported, that a house belonging to
Doct. Spring, of this place, may be had for that purpose, whereupon,
Resolved, That said committee be directed to inquire at what rate,
per month, Doct. Spring will let the same.
Resolved, That the secretary be directed to subscribe the name of
the late president, to all commissions that are to be delivered out to
the otficers of the army, bearing date the 19th of May.
The report of the committee appointed to consider General Ward's
358 THIRD PROVINCIAL CONGRESS. [June 20,
letter relative to spears, was again read and accepted, and it is as fol-
lows, viz. :
The committee appointed to take into consideration a letter from
the o-eneral, informing tliat a number of the soldiers in the late action,
lost their clothes and blankets, and also proposing that the soldiers in
the intrenchments be furnished with lances and spears, have attended
that service, and beg leave to repoit by way of resolve.
[Resolved,] That the committee of supplies be, and they are hereby
directed, to furnish those destitute soldiers with clothes and blankets,
as soon as may be, who shall produce from the colonel of the regi-
ment they belong to, certificates of their having lost such clothes and
blankets in the late engagement : and that a committee be chosen,
immediately to procure, from such as can most speedily and conveni-
ently supply them, a sufficient number of good spears, not exceeding
1500, either by purchase or hire ; and that the same be transmitted to
the army at Cambridge as soon as possible ; all which is humbly sub-
mittted. Elisha Parks, per order.
Adjourned to eight o'clock, to-morrow morning.
Tuesday, June 20, 1775.
The committee appointed to consider the request of Col. Phiney,
reported.
The report was ordered to lie on the table till the matter respecting
armed vessels is considered.
Ordered, That Major Brooks, Col. Mitchell, Mr. Ellis, Mr. Kol-
lock, Deacon Fairbanks, Mr. Perry, and Major Fuller, be a committee
to purchase spears, agreeably to a resolve which passed the Congress
yesterday; said committee to proceed on the business forthwith; to
consult with and receive directions from the general, respecting the
form, &,c., of the spears; and to engage payment for the same, in bills
of credit of this colony.
The committee on the resolve of the Continental Congress respect-
ing government, reported a letter to the several towns in the colony,
which was read and accepted, and ordered to be printed in hand bills
with the resolve of the Continental Congress at large: and Mr. Whit-
ney, Col. Freeman, Capt. Stone, Doct. Church, and Deacon Cheever,
were appointed a committee to ascertain the number to be printed; to
get them printed, and to disperse the same to the several towns and
districts in this colony : and also to consider in what manner the late
inhabitants of the towns of Boston and Cliarlestown, should choose
1775.] THIRD I'ROVINCIAL CON(JRi:sS. :i;>9
iiieiiibers to represent llieiii. The resolve (jfllie ( "oiitiii('iit;il Coiij^ress
and tlie letter lo the towns, I'ol o\v, viz. :
In Conguess, riunAV, Junt,- I>, 1775.
licsuh'cd, Tliat no obedience being due to the act of parliament for
altering the charter of tiie colony of Massachusetts Bay, nor to a gov-
ernor and lieutenant governor, who will not oliserve the direction.s of,
but ende.ivor to subvert that charter; the governor and lieutenant gov-
ernor are to be considered as absent, and their offices vacant. And as
there is no council there, and the inconveniences arising from the sus-
pension of the powers of government are intolerable, especially at a
time when general Gage hath actually levied war, and is carrying on
hostilities against his majesty's peaceful and loyal subjects of that colo-
ny ; that in order to conform, as near as may be, to the spirit and sub-
stance of the charter, it be recommended to tlie Provincial Congress,
to write letters to the inhabitants of the several places, which are enti-
tled to repiesentation in assembly, requesting them to choose such rep-
resentatives ; and that the assembly, when chosen, should elect coun-
sellors ; which assembly and council should exercise the powers of
government, until a governor of his majesty's appointment will consent
to govern the colony according to its charter.
A true copy from the minutes.
Charlp:s Thompson, Secretary.
By order of the Congress. JoiixV Hancock, President.
COLONV OF THE MASSACHUSETTS BaY.
In observance of the foregoing resolve of the Hon. Continental Con-
gress, now sitting at Philadelphia, these are to request you, forthwith,
to cause the freeholders and other inhabitants of your town, that have
an estate of freehold in land, within this province or territory, of forty
shillings per annum, at the least, or other estate to the value of forty
pounds sterling, to assemble, at such time and place as you shall
appoint, then and there to elect and depute one or more freehold-
ers resident in the same town, according to the numbers set and limi-
ted by an act of the general assembly, entitled an act for ascertaining
the number and regulating the house of representatives, to serve for,
and represent them in a great and general court or assembly, to be con-
vened, held, and kept, for the service of the said colony, until the end
of the day next preceding the last Wednesday of May next, if necessa-
ry, and no longer, at the meeting-house in Watcrtown, upon Wednes-
day, the 19th day of July next ensuing the date hereof, and to warn
360 THIRD PROVINCIAL CONGRESS. [June 19,
the person or persons so elected by the major part of the electors pres-
ent at such election, to be timely notified, by one or more of the con-
stables of your town, to attend the service of this colony in the said
general court or assembly, on the day above prefixed, by nine o'clock,
in the forenoon, and so from day to day, during their session and ses-
sions. Hereof we desire you not to fail, and make return of this let-
ter, with the name or names of the person or persons so elected or de-
puted, and of their being notified, unto the said general assembly, at
the time and place abovementioned for its meeting,
Given under my hand, this nineteenth day of June, anno domini,
1775, By order of Congress.
Prcddcnt.
To the selectmen of the town of
Attest, Secretary.
Resolved, That 3 o'clock, P. M. be assigned for the choice of a ma-
jor general in the room of the late Doct. Warren, and also for the
choice of one brigadier general.
Several letters from Penobscot, viz. ; from Mr. John Lane, and oth-
ers, were read and committed to Capt. Webster, Col. Farley, Capt.
Holmes, Doct. Taylor, and Major Perley.^
Doct. Gunn was appointed to report a resolve on the proposal made
by the committee of safety, relative to the killed and wounded in the
late battle.
A petition from the district of Woolwich ^ was presented and read :
and thereupon, Resolved, that the petitioners have leave to withdraw
their petition.
Upon a motion made. Resolved, that the house of Mr. Hunt, at Cam-
bridge, be hired for a hospital, and that the committee appointed to
treat with Doct. Spring, be a committee to hire the same.
(l)The substance of the (•ominuiiications from Penobscot, is contained in a letter from Gen.
Preble.
" Falmouth, June 15, 1775.
"HonoredS'r:— Mr. Lane is returned here, with fourof the Penobscot tribe ; we have furnished
them with carriages to convey them to you, and Mr. Lane with money to pay their expenses. Oro-
no, the chief man, seems to be sensible, and hearty in our cause : he reserves what he has chiefly to
say, till he comes to the Congress. We gave them assurances that they might depend upon being
provided for, while there, as well as on their return back again, wished them a pleasant journey,
and that the event might be happy to them and us. We suppose Mr. Lane will give account of the
expense, therefore we have sent none."
" Wis!,i,ig success to our righteous cause, we are, your honors, most obedient humble servants,
the committee of correspondence, JEDEDIAH PREBLE, Chairman."
" Hon. Joseph Warren, Pregident."
(2) This petition was for a supply of powder.
1775] THIRD I'ROVliNCIAL CONURESS. MM
Ordered, That Doct. Church, Doct. Taylor, and Uoct. \\ liititiL', he
a committee to consider what melh<jd is j)ro[)er to l)e taken to supply
the hospitals with snrtreons : and that tiie same gentlemen he a com-
mittee to provide medicines, and all other necessaries for the hospitals.
The report of the committee on the expediency of estahlishiiif/ armed
vessels, was considered, and alter debate, the matter was ordered to
subside.'
The coMMiiittee appointed to confer witli Doct. S|»rin;f, relative to the
use of his house for another ho.spital, reported : the report was read and
accepted, and is as follows, viz. :
The committee appointed to consider of the expediency of establish-
ing another hospital for the sick and wounded of the army, having at-
tended that service, beg leave to report, that they judge it is really ex-
pedient to have another established, and they judge that the house
of Doct. Spring, in Watertown, is convenient for that purpose; and
that he is willino- said house should be improved by the province for
that use, but that he cannot at present ascertain the damage it may be
to him, but is willing to submit that matter to the judgment of a com-
mittee to be hereafter appointed by this honorable Congress or the house
of assembly. By order, J.Hall.
Ordered, That Doct. Church, Doct. Taylor, and Mr. Pickering, be a
committee to consider the petition of Mr. Pigeon, commissary general.
Ordered, That Mr. Wheeler, Doct. Whiting, and Capt. Pilsbury, be
a committee to consider a petition of Col. John Patterson, [who re-
ported as follows :]
The committee appointed to take into consideration the petition of
Col. Patterson, have attended that service, and beg leave to report by
way of resolve.
{Resolved,'] That the committee of supplies be directed to give imme-
diate orders for the supplying said destitute soldiers with blankets,
agreeably to the said petition.
The committee on the petition of Mr. Pigeon, reported. The report
was accepted, and is as follows, viz. :
Resolved, That Mr. John Pigeon, commissary general, requesting a
dismission from his said otiice, being under a mistake, have liberty to
withdraw his petition ; that the conduct of said commissary general in
his office, has been such as to merit the approbation of this Congress,
(1) Tlie resolvo reported by the committee, provided for fitting out a number of armed vessels not
less tlian six, to mount from eiglit to fourteen carriage guns, to cruise under the orders of the commit-
tee of safety, for the protection of tlie commerce and property of tlie towns of the sen-const against
the depredations of the enemies of the province, and for the capture and destruction of iu foes.
46
362 THIRD PROVINCIAL CONGRESS. [June 19,
and of the public in general ; and that said John Pigeon be desired to
attend his business as commissary general in the service of this prov-
ince.
At the request of Mr. Pigeon, the commissary general, Ordtral, that
Doct. Holten, Mr. Devens, and Col. Palmer, be a committee to consult,
and with their advice, assist Mr. Pigeon in such matters as appertain to
his office.
Resolved, That there be one deputy commissary appointed to each
regiment, and that Mr. Pigeon, the commissary general, be desired to
lay before the Congress a list of persons proper to be appointed for this
business, and to propose an establishment for their pay.
Ordered, That Mr. Edwards, Mr. Hopkins, Doct. Taylor, Mr.
Batchelder, and Doct. Church, be a committee to confer with four In-
dians, this day arrived from Penobscot, under the conduct of Mr. John
Lane, and to provide proper entertainment for them while in this place,
and for their return home.
Ordered, That Mr. Pickering, Mr. Langdon, and Col. Sawyer, be a
committee to consider the desire of Capt. George Dodge for liberty to
export a quantity of old Jamaica fish.
On a motion made in behalf of Capt. Thomas Mason and Capt.
George Dodge, that they might have liberty from this Congress to ship
off for the West Indies, one hundred and thirty hogsheads of last year
Jamaica cod fish, or a quantity not exceeding the same :
Resolved, That it appears to this Congress, that the detention of said
fish can be of little or no service to this colony, and that they be al-
lowed to export the same : and the committee of safety for the town of
Salem is directed to see that this resolve be effectually carried into ex-
ecution, and that no other provisions, except for the vessel's use, be
shipped off in the same.
Resolved, That five o'clock, P. M., be assigned for the choice of
some person to preach an election sermon on the 9th of July next.
[Afternoon.]
The committee appointed to consider a petition from the committee
chosen to take care of the poor at Charlestovvn, reported ; the report
was accepted, and is as follows, viz. :
The comnuttee chosen to take the within petition into consideration
report, that it is their opinion, that the poor of the town of Charles-
town be provided for by the selectmen of the several towns to which
they remove, until the further order of this or some future Congress, or
house of representatives.
1775.] THIRD PROVINCIAL CONGRESS. 363
Ordrrcd, Tliat Col. Cushintr, Major Perley, Col. Prescott, Col. Bar-
rett, and Deacon FLslier, 1)6 ii committee to iiKjuiro into the ground.sof a
report wliitli has prevailed in the army, that there iia.s been treachery
in .some of the officers; and that, if they find that such report is with-
out foundation, they bring in a resolve for (juieting the minds of tiie
people, in respect thereof.
Ordered, That the committee appointed to consider the request of
Capt. George Dodge, should likewise consider a request made by Dea-
con Cheever, in behalf of Mr. Russell, for a similar j)urpose.
On a motion made in behalf of Mr. Thomas Russell, merchant, that
he might be allowed to ship otT from this colony, one hundred hogs-
heads of last year's Jamaica fish, for the West Indies :
Rrsolved, That it appears to this Congress, that the detention of
said fish can be of little or no service to this colony, and that he be al-
lowed to export the same ; and as part of said fish is now at Salem, and
part at Newburyport, it is further Resolved, that the said Russell be
allowed to send or transport the fish which is at Salem to Newbury-
port, in order to be shipped off as aforesaid : and the respective com-
mittees of safety of both said towns, are directed to take care, in their
own departments, that this resolve be effectually carried into execution,
and that no other provisions, except for the vessel's use, be shipped off
in the same.
The order of the day [was] moved for.
Ordered, That Capt. Webster, Mr. Wheeler, and Mr. Fox, be a com-
mittee to receive and count the votes for a major general.
The committee having attended that service, reported that Col. Heath
was chosen.
Resolved, That eleven o'clock, to-morrow morning, be assigned for
the choice of four brigadier generals.
A return of a member, (viz. : Mr. Beriah Norton,) from Edgartown,
was read, and considered ; and the question being put, whether Mr.
Norton be regularly returned a member for said town, it passed in the
negative.
Ordered, That the secretary transmit to General Heath a certificate
of his being chosen by this Congress a major general in the Massachu-
setts army, and to desire his acceptance, and that he would attend this
Conorress, as soon as may be, to receive his commission.
Ordered, That Mr. Wheeler, Mr. Lothrop, and Mr. Sayer, be a
committee to make out a commission for Major General Heath.
Ordered, That Col. Freeman, Mr. Webster, and Doct. Taylor, be a
committee to prepare the form of a return, to be printed on the back of
364 THIRD PROVINCIAL CONGRESS. [June 20,
the letter to be sent to the several towns and districts for choosing rep-
resentatives.
Orderid, That Deacon Fisher, Capt. Stone, and Capt. Thatcher, be
a committee to consider a letter from the committee of safety relative
to their recommendation of Mr. John Wiley as captain of a company
of the train of artillery, and that they notify the said Wiley to be heard
thereon.
Ordered, That Capt. Batchelder, Mr. Hopkins, and Major Fuller,
be a committee to consider a petition from Robert Haskell. ^
Ordered, That Capt. Brown be of the committee, in the room ol
Major Hall, to agree with Mr. Hunt for his house in Watertown, to be
used as a hospital.
Ordered, That Deacon Nichols, Deacon Fisher, and Mr. Hinsdale,
be a committee to distribute Doct. Langdon's sermons, one to each
minister in the colony, and one to each member of the Congress.
The committee appointed to prepare the form of a return to be printed
on the back of the letters to the selectmen of the several towns and dis-
tricts, &c., reported. The report was read, and accepted, and is as
follows, viz. :
Pursuant to the letters within written, the freeholders and other in-
habitants of the town of , qualified as is therein directed,
upon due warning given, assembled and met together, the day
of , 1775, and did then elect and depute to
serve for and represent them, in the session and sessions of the great
and general court, or assembly, appointed to be convened, held, and
kept, at the meeting-house in Watertown, upon Wednesday, the nine-
teenth day of July, 1775; the said person being chosen by the major
part of the electors present at said meeting. Dated at
aforesaid, the day of , Anno Domini, 1775.
Selectmen of
The person chosen as aforesaid notified thereof, and summoned to
attend accordingly, by me.
Constable of
(I) Robert Haskell reprcsentnd, tliat lie was a native of Beverly, where he resided until 17C2,
when he removed to Yarmouth in Nova Scotia, and cultivated a small farm. Returning to Bev-
erly in 1773, he engaged in the coasting trade ; but the wreck of his vessel, and the loss of her cargo,
had deprived him of the means of support, and rendered him desirous of returning to his lands. Hav-
ing contracted for his passage In an old ship, the committee of safety of Beverly had refused their
permission for his departure on the contemjilnted voyage. He prayed that Congress would give him
liberty, under the unfortunate circumstances of his condition, to revisit his home and family.
1775] THIRD PROVINCIAL CONGRESS. 365
The committee appointed to prepare a letter to the Continental Con-
gress, reported. The report was read, parairra|)li by |)ara^rapli, and
accepted, and ordered to be transcribed, authenticated, and sent for-
ward, [and is as follows, viz :]
To the llonoiuihli., tltc Coiifliu iitctf Cuiiffri'^s, now silting (it Pkiladcl-
pliid :
May it please i/our honors :
Having been favored with your resolve respecting the assumption of
government in this colony, we seize the earliest opportunity to express
our grateful ["sentiments] for that compassion, seasonable exertion, and
abundant wisdom, evidenced in your recommendation to this people on
that liead, and for the generous provision you have ni..de for our sup-
port, in our efforts for tlie defence of the common liberty and essential
rights of the whole continent. As we are plunged into the accumula-
ted distresses of a domestic war, our constant attention to the calls of
our brethren in the field, will leave us but little time to contemplate
the acts of ordinary legislation; but, as we are impressed with the in-
dispensable necessity of rescuing this people from the danger they are
in, of falling into a state of anarchy, and that our public resolutions may
be taken and executed with greater despatch, we shall apply ourselves,
with all diligence, to fulfil your benevolent intentions, and establish the
form of government recommended by your honors; that so, order and
government may be restored to this disturbed community.
We think it our indispensable duty to inform you, that reenforcements
from Ireland, both of horse and foot, being arrived, the number un-
known, and havincf good intelliiicncc that general Gage was about to
take possession of the advantageous posts in Charlestown, and on Dor-
chester point, the committee of safety advised, that oui troops should
prepossess them, if possible ; accordingly, on Friday evening, the 10th
instant, this was effected by about twelve hundred men. About day-
licrht, on Saturday moning, their line of circumvallation, on a small hill
south of Bunker's hill, in Charlestown, was closed. At this time, the
Lively, man of war, began to fire upon them. A number of our ene-
mies' ships, tenders, cutters, and scows, or floating batteries, soon came
up : from all which the fire was general by twelve o'clock. About two,
the enemy began to land at a point which leads out towards Noddle's
island, and immediately marched up to our intrenchments, t>om which
they were twice repulsed ; but, in the third attack, forced them. Our
n [resontmonts.]
366 THIRD PROVINCIAL CONGRESS. [June 20,
forces, which were in the lines, as well as those sent for their support,
were greatly annoyed on every side, by balls, and bombs, from Copp's
hill, the ships, scows, &lc. At this time, the buildings in Charlestown
appeared in flames, in almost every quarter, kindled by hot balls, and
are since laid in ashes. Though this scene was most horrible, and
altoo-ether new to most of our men, yet many stood and received wounds
by swords and bayonets, before they quitted their lines. At five o'clock,
the enemy were in full possession of all the posts within the [isthmus.]
In the evening and night following. General Ward extended his in-
trenchments, before made at the stone house, over Winter hill. About
six o'clock, P. M., of the same day, the enemy began to cannonade
Roxbury, from Boston neck and elsewhere, which they continued twen-
ty four hours, with little spirit and less effect.
The number of killed and missing on our side is not known ; but
sui)posed by some to be about sixty or seventy, and by some, consider-
ably above that number. Our most worthy friend and president, Doct.
Warren, lately elected a major general, is among them. This loss we
feel most sensibly. Lieut. Col. Parker, and Major Moore, of this colo-
ny, and Major McClary, from New Hampshire, are also dead. Three
colonels, and perhaps one hundred men are wounded. The loss of the
enemy is doubtless great. By an anonymous letter from Boston, we
are told, that they exult much in having gained the ground, though
their killed and wounded amount to about one thousand ; but this ac-
count exceeds every other estimation. The number they had engaged
is supposed to be between three and four thousand. If any error has
been made on our side, it was in taking a post so much exposed.
As soon as an estimate can be made of public and private stocks of
gunpowder in this colony, it shall be transmitted without delay ; which,
we are well assured, will be very small, and by no means adequate to
the exigencies of our case.
We apprehend, that the scantiness of our stock of that article cannot
fail to induce your honors still to give your utmost attention to ways
and means ofprocuring full supplies of it. We feel ourselves infinitely
obliged to you for your past care in this respect.
We beg leave humbly to suggest, that, if a commander in chief over
the army of the United Colonies should be appointed, it must be plain
to your honors, that no part of this continent can so much require his
immediate presence and exertions, as this colony.
Ordered, That the Hon. Major Havvley, and Mr. Phillips, be a com-
mittee to draw up a resolve, to be sent to General Ward, suggesting to
177r>.J THIRD PROVINCIAL CONURKSS. 367
him the expediency of drawiiicr part r)f die forces stationed at Roxhnrv,
to the camp at Cambriiige.
The said committee reported the following letter, which was accept-
ed, and ordered to be sent, by Mr. Thaxter, to the camj) at Cambridge,
immediately :
Sin : — This Congress, considerin^r the present situation of the ene-
my, and that of the division of our army at Cambridge, think proper to
suggest to your serious consideration, whether it is not proper and ex-
pedient, that there should bo an immediate draft of a reinment or more
from the Roxbury caiiij) to that at Cambridire. Your good sense will
undoubtedly incline you to consult General Thomas, before you deter-
mine absolutely on this measure; but we conceive the consideration of
this matter ought not to be delayed a moment.
To the Hon. Grncral Word.
Adjourned to Wednesday morning, eight o'clock.
Wednesday, June 21, 1775.
Resolved, That the vote of this Congress for ranking the major gen-
erals agreeably to the order of their choice, be reconsidered.
The commission prepared for General Heath, was presented to Con-
gress, read, and accepted, and is as follows :
The Congress of the Colony of Massachusetts Bay, to the Hon. Wil-
liam Heath, Esq. Greeting.
We, reposing especial trust and confidence in your courage, and
good conduct, do, by these presents, constitute and appoint you, the
said William Heath, to be a major general 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 major general, in leading, ordering, and exercising the said forces
in arms, both inferior officers and soldiers, and to keep them in good
order and discipline: And they arc hereby commanded to obey you
as their major general : 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 said forces, or any other
your superior officers ; and to demean yourself according to military
rules and discipline established by said Congress, in pursuance of the
trust reposed in you. Dated at Watertown, the •21.st of June, 1775.
By order of Congress.
President.
368 THIRD PROVINCIAL CONGRESS. [June 21,
Ordered, That Col. Gerrish, Major Hawley, Doct. Taylor, Mr. Dur-
fee, and Mr. Jevvett, be a committee to consider the expediency of di-
recting General Ward, to call Col. Glover's regiment, now stationed at
Marblehead, to the camp at Cambridge, and report.
The committee on the petition of Robert Haskell, reported : The
report was accepted, and is as follows, viz. :
The committee appointed to take into consideration the petition of
Robert Haskell, beg to report by way of resolve.
Resolved, That the petitioner, Robert Haskell, be, and he hereby is
permitted to proceed from Beverly to Nova Scotia, in a fishing vessel
about 17 years old, that he hath procured for that purpose ; also to carry
three or four persons with him, and the following provisions, viz. :
one barrel of pork ; two of bread ; sixteen gallons of molasses ; sixteen
gallons of rum ; a half bushel of beans or peas ; and two bushels of salt;
but no more provisions of any kind whatever : and that such proceed-
ing will not be contrary to the resolve passed by the Grand American
Congress, the 17th of May last, or any other resolve that honorable
Congress have yet published.
Resolred, That Col. Phiney, be admitted into this house, to inform
the Congress of the state of the regiment enlisted in the county of
Cumberland.
The committee appointed to consider the expediency of directing
General Ward, to call to the camp at Cambridge, the regiment at
Marblehead, reported. The report was ["accepted] i.
Ordered, That Col. Sayer wait on General Ward with it.
Ordered, That Mr. Sayer, draw, in the form of a resolve, the report
of the committee relative to the estates of the refugees.
Ordered, That the president sign the resolve relative to the violation
of the sabbath, which passed the 16th instant.
Ordered, That Doct. Jones, Capt. Stone, and Capt. Bragdon, be a
committee to consider the petition of Thomas Twinincr.
Mr. Sayer reported a resolve relative to the estates of the refugees,
which was accepted, and ordered to be printed in the Cambridge,
Watertown, and Worcester papers, and is as follows, viz. :
Whereas, the property of some persons who have left their habita-
tions in .sundry towns in this colony, and have discovered themselves
to be enemies to the rights of this colony, and the continent of Ameri-
n [accepted iind is as follows.]
(1) The resolution, .H.rortunaloly lost from the journ;,! aiwl files, appears to have directed the re-
moval of the reKiment from the coast to the camp, as soon as the troops could abandon their post
with safety to the inhabitants.
1775.] TIIIRI) I'ROVINCIAL CONGRKSS. 369
ca, in geiier.al, <iiul liave taken refuge in Boston, and other places, un-
der tlie protection of the enemies to said colony and continent : there-
fore, Resolved, that it be recommended to the selectmen and commit-
tees of correspondence of the several towns and districts of this colony,
where any property is to be found belonging to any of the aforesaid per-
sons, that they take the same into their care, and make the best improve-
ment thereof in their power; and also, that it be recommended to the
said committees or selectmen, to use their endeavor, that no strip or
waste be made on such property, and to keep an account of all the
rents and profits arising from the same, and to be accountable for the
same, to this, or some other Congress or assembly of this colony, when
thereto required ; they having a reasonable allowance made for their
trouble.
Aflernoon.
Ordered, That Major Hawley, Mr. Gerry and Major Fuller, be a
committee to bring in a resolve, for the puipose of calling the general
assembly at another time than that at which it is to be held, if the exi-
gencies of the times should make it necessary.
Resolved, That another major general be chosen by this Congress,
in addition to the two already chosen, and that six o'clock, this after-
noon, be assigned for such choice.
Ordered, That Major Fuller, Col. Farley and Mr. Wheeler, be a
committee to inquire how and where materials for making good paper,
proper for bills of credit, may be had, if any such bills should be emit-
ted.
Ordered, That Capt. Bragdon and Col. Davis, be a committee to
apply to Mr. Paul Revere, desiring him to take care, that he does not
leave his engraving press exposed, when he is absent from it; and said
committee are directed to take the plates into their hands, and deliver
them to this Congress, when the notes are all struck off.
The committee who were appointed to confer with the Indians, re-
ported as follows, viz. :
The committee appointed by the honorable colony Congress, now sit-
ting, to treat with the chiefs from the Penobscot tribe, after an intro-
duction on their part, received from the [chief of the] Indians the fol-
lowing address, viz. :
The representation he now makes, and the engagements he enters
into, are in behalf of the whole tribe he represents.
His heart is good, honest, and upright, in all he says.
The English are a people old and strong; but they are children and
weak. They have a large tract of land, which they have a right to
47
370 THIRD PROVINCIAL CONGRESS. [June 12,
call their own, and have possessed, accordingly, for many years.
These lands have been encroached upon by the English, who have, for
miles on end, cut much of their good timber. They ask that the Eng-
lish would interpose and prevent such encroachments for the future ;
and they will assist us, with all their power, in the common defence of
our country; and they hope, if the Almighty be on our side, the ene-
my will not be able to deprive us of our lands.
They request that Capt. Lane be an agent for them, to settle all
matters relative to the above difficulties respecting their lands.
They desire a commissary may be sent among them, of whom they
may purchase goods. They desire provisions, powder, «fec., may be
sent them, which they will buy at a reasonable rate.
They say, they have been much imposed upon by our traders, and
desire such evils may be, by us, prevented.
Ordered, That the request of the Indians, as mentioned in said re-
port, be considered by the committee aforesaid.
Ordered, That Mr. Haven administer the oaths to General Heath, as
colonel, and as major general of the Massachusetts army.
The president then delivered General Heath a commission as colo-
nel, and another as a major general of the Massachusetts army.
Ordered, That Mr. Pickering, Mr. Lothrop and Mr. Pitts, be a
committee to deliver commissions to the following officers in General
Heath's regiment, viz. : Jotham Loring 2d, major : Charles Cushing,
captain : Elias Whitton, lieutenant : Benjamin Beal, ensign.
Ordered, That the president. Major Hawley, Mr. Gerry, Col.
Thompson, Capt. Goodman, Col. Lincoln and Col. Freeman, be a
committee to inquire into the reason of the present want of discipline
in the Massachusetts army, and to report to this Congress what is the
most proper way to put said army into a proper regulation.
A commission was delivered to Col. Benjamin Ruggles Woodbridge,
as colonel of a regiment in the colony army.
Ordered, That commissions be delivered to the officers of Col.
Woodbridge's regiment, agreeably to a list by him exhibited to the
committee of safety.
Tiie order of the day [was] moved for.
Ordered, That Col. Lincoln, Mr. Pitts and Mr. Lothrop, be a com-
mittee to receive, sort, and count the votes for another major general :
which coinmittee reported, that they had attended that service, and that
Joseph Fry, Esq., was chosen.
Ordered, That Mr. Phillips be appointed, foithwith to wait on Col.
1775.] rilllll) FMtOVINCIAL CONGRESS. :^71
Fry, to iiiluriii liiiii of sucli clioicr, and to know if he will accept thai
trust.
The committee appointed to consider the rc(|iicsi of tin- Indians,
now in \Vatcitown, reported: the report was acc('|)tfd, and is as fol-
lows, viz. :
We, the delegates of the people of this province, asseinltl(;d in Con-
gress, being appointed to transact the public business, have no doubt
that any engagement we shall make, for and in behalf of our constitu-
ents, will, on their part, be faithfully ratified and adhered to. We do
not doubt of the integrity and honest intentions of our bretliren of the
Penobscot tribe, and hope, on their part, that they entertain no jeal-
ousy of the uprightness and fidelity of us, their brethren. The inhabi-
tants of this colony disdain to make use of unjustifiable force or arti-
fice, to rob their unsuspecting brethren of their rights; and are heartily
disposed to prevent any injuries and encroachments upon their neigh-
bors, and to restrain and chastise such invaders as have evidenced any
such unjustifiable dispositions. And we hereby strictly forbid any
person or persons whatsoever, from trespassing or making waste, upon
any of the lands and territories, or possessions, beginning at the head
of the tide on Penobscot river, extending six miles on each side of said
river, now claimed by our brethren, the Indians of the Penobscot tribe,
as they would avoid the highest displeasure of this Congress.
We thank our brethren of the Penobscot tribe, for their generous
offers of friendship and assistance in our present war with our brethren
in Great Britain, who are endeavoring, by murder and violence, to rob
us of our lands and property, and hereby engage to [support] their just
claims against every invader. As soon as we can take breath, from
our present fight, we will take care that our brethren, the Penobscot
tribe, shall be furnished with a proper commissary, who shall be direct-
ed to furnish them with provisions, ammunition, and goods, at a rea-
sonable rate ; and proper and effectual measures shall then be taken,
to prevent any dishonest persons from carrying on a fraudulent traffic
with them.
We accept of Capt. Lane, as an agent, appointed by our brethren of
the Penobscot tribe, who is hereby authorized and empowered to take
cognizance, and make report to this Congress, or any future assembly
of this colony, of any molestation or depredations, which the Indians
of the Penobscot tribe may hereafter sustain, from any person whatso-
ever; so that seasonable and effectual measures may be taken to afford
those, our brethren, such redress as their circumstances may require.
To the Fountain of all Justice we dare appeal, that our intentions are
372 THIRD PROVINCIAL CONGRESS. [June 21,
equitable towards all our neighbors, and on that Almighty Being we
rely, that, while we are struggling against rapine and tyranny, we shall
be supported in the conflict, and our just endeavors be finally crowned
with success.
The committee likewise reported, verbally, that it is their opinion,
the said Indians should have, each of them, two yards of blue broad-
cloth, and one piece of ribbon, and have their expenses paid, out and
home : which report was accepted, and the committee of supplies di-
rected to furnish said Indians with the said ribbon and cloth.
A copy of a letter from the president of the New York Congress to
Major General Wooster, at Greenwich, forwarded to head quarters at
Cambridge, was read, and committed to the committee just now ap-
pointed to consider some methods for regulating the army immediately. ^
(I) The letter of the New York Congress was forwarded by Gov. Trumbull, with the communi-
cations which follow :
" LEBANON, June 19, 1775, A. M., 7 o'clock.
" SIR : — Inclosed are copies of notes taken by the Provincial Congress at New York, of the in-
telligence brought by Capt. Thompson, of the embarkation of four regiments from Ireland for New
York, in consequence whereof Major General Wooster is requested by that Congress to march imme-
diately within five miles of the city ; and the latter informs me, that Capt. Sears informed him, that
the people of New York intend to quarter our troops in the city. The military stores, which were
at Turtle Bay, have fallen into the hands of General Wooster, consisting of too many articles to be
enumerated ; among which are, about five hundred good horse harnesses, a very considerable num-
ber of 13 and 10 inch carcasses, [shells and pots,] all well charged, a very great plenty of grape shot,
cannon balls from 24 pounders down to 3, &,c., &c."
" The Provincial Congress of New York forwarded, for the use of your camp at Cambridge, C55
lbs. of powder, which came as far as Stanford. They desired the same quantity might be forwarded
from our eastern magazines. The governor, with his council here, agreed, on Saturday last, to send
forward ten barrels of powder, containing 1 100 lbs., from Norwich. Immediately after receiving the
letter of Mr. Gerry, of 17th June, at 7 and 8 o'clock, P. M., I sent to Norwich directions to forward
the same, night and day. The remainder of Col. Parson's regiment were ordered to march, forth-
with, to join the rest at camp, with one pound powder, three do. ball, and six flints each. I have
Bent to hasten them on. I have, this moment, received advice from Col. Arnold at Crown Point,
of 13th instant, that the Indians of the Cagnawaga tribe are determined not to assist the king's
troops, and have passed a law, that the first of their tribe, who takes uparms against us, shall be put
to death ; which he says, is confirmed by five chiefs of that tribe there with their families, and they
press hard for our army to march into Canada, as they are much disgusted with the regular troops.
Three Indians, sent by him to Canada, it seems, have been much abused by the regulars, and are
returned, and confirm that account: it is also confirmed, he says, by a gentleman of probity at
Montreal ; and ihat numbers of the Canadians have expected our army there, and are impatient of
our delay, being determined to join us as soon as sufficient force appears to support them : that
Gov. Carlton, by every art, can raise no more than twenty Canadians of the noblesse : that he
threatens to burn Montreal, if the merchants won't defend the city, in case of an attack: that he has
only 550 efi-ecUvc men, and thinks it would be very easy to possess ourselves of the whole country."
" Col. Hin,nan writes, that he is in quiet possession of Ticonderoga, and does not find that there
are any enemies about him."
" I am, with great truth and regard, gentlcn,en, your obedient, humble servant,
JONA. TRUMBULL."
J'Josepk Warren Es, President of the Ma^sachusetU Congress, and Elbrid.c Oerry, Esg.,ckaim,.n
of the commitlec of nupphes at Massachusetts,'"
1775.] THIRD PROVINCIAL CONGRESS. 373
Ordered, That commissions tor the several officers of tlic trniii of
artillery hereafter ineiitioned, be prepared ;iiid delivered, viz. : To Col.
Ricliard Gridley, colonel : Mr. William Burheck, lientenant colonel
Mr. David Mason, 1st major : Mr. Scarboroujjli Cridh y, '-.M major
Resolved, That conimi.ssions be delivered to the several officers of
the train of artillery, agreeably to the list exhibited bv the committee
of safety, except to Mr. John Wiley's company : and that the said
conniiittee be desired to recommend some persons lor that company
anew.
Ordered, That Mr. Lothrop, Mr. Pickering and Col. Sawver, be a
committee to prepare commissions for the several officers of the train
agreeably to the foregoing resolve of Congress.
JVute.-< of the Intelligence brought by Capt. Thompson.
" Capt. Thonipson arrived at New York, Tuesday, )3tli June, 1775 ; left Cork, in Ireland, on the
6th of May last, and int'orms, that six regiments had sailed, in 24 transports, for Boston, one regiment
of horse included, which sailed 30th April. Three regiments were embarked, and the fourth em-
barking, to sail for Xew York, with the first fair wind. The regiments were all full, 700 men each
filled !)>• drafts from the regiments that remain. Their places were to be filled by new recruits.
The general report was, that these four regiments were coming to New York, and some captains
and otiier officers belonging to the troops, told Capt. Thompson in person, that they were comin" to
New York. One regiment arrived at Cork, from Kilkenny, the day Capt. Thompson sailed which
was the last regiment to embark for New York. He saw 12 large transports destined for New
York : he heard that 16 were to sail : one general officer was to come to Now York."
" The troops coming to New York are to protect the people's property, and assist against mobs : the
report in Ireland was, that those troops had been wrote for by persons here. The troops, in "eiieral
disliked the service : some officers had sold out: no ships of war were coming with the transports :
a report prevailed in Ireland, tliat nine new regiments were to be raised. He heard that 30 000
Russians were ready at a moment's warning. Tlie people of Ireland, in general, are well affected
to the Americans, and are averse to the Americans' being taxed by the parliament of Great Britain.
Capt. Mcllvaine sailed (before Capt. Thompson) for Philadelphia, and has the numbers of the regi-
ments coming to America."
" Provincial Congress, JVew I'ork, 17th June, 1775."
" SIR : — Being well informed that four regiments, containing near three thousand effective men
have sailed, in transports, for this city, we took the liberty to request the assistance ol those brave
Bons of freedom who are under your command. We are, this instant, further informed that the
Mercury, ship of war, was cruising upon our coast, and is now at Sandy Hook, to order those trans-
ports to Boston immediately, and did, on Tuesday last, thirty leagues to the southeast of the Hook
deliver her orders to the old Spy, man of war, now a transport, with part of the forty fourth regi-
ment on board, which immediately altered her course. From hence, we conclude, that a very capi-
tal stroke is meditated against our brethren of the Massachusetts Bay. You best can determine
Bir, whether it is proper, on this occasion, for the forces under your command to march westward •
but we are led to believe, that it is of more important consequence to secure the several passes with
which nature hath bounteously fortified the eastern country, that, if some unexpected chance of
war should prove fatal to us, in the first contest, the enemy may, by such means, receive a check in
his career of vengeance. We heg you to transmit this intelligence to the provincial camp with the
utmost despatch. Wo are, sir, your most humble servants.
By order of the Congress. PETER V. B. LIVINGSTO.X, President."
" To .Major General IVooster, at Orcenirich."
" The above is a true copy of a letter just received from the Provincial Congress of New York,
and now forwarded by express.
By order of General Wooster. JA.MES LOCKWOOD, &»'ry."
374 THIRD PROVINCIAL CONGRESS. [June 22,
Ordered, That Major Whittemore wait upon Col. Gridley, to desire
him to attend this Congress, to-morrow, to receive his commission.
Ordered, That Deacon Nichols, Mr. Bent and Deacon Fisher, be a
committee to consider the petition of Capt. Brinnt Morton.
Ordered, Tliat Col. Gridley's list of staff officers be committed to
the committee just now appointed to prepare commissions for the offi-
cers of the train.
Adjourned to Thursday morning, nine o'clock.
Thursday, June 2'2, 1775.
Ordered, That the secretary, Col. Cushing and Mr. Wheeler, be a
committee to make a list of such officers of the army, as have been
commissioned, and also to inquire who have not yet received their
commissions.
Ordered, That an ensign's commission be delivered to Mr. Stephen
Frost, of Capt. Locke's company, in Col. Gardner's regiment.
Ordered, That the selectmen of the town of Ashby, be directed to
deliver the selectmen of the town of Townshend one half barrel of
powder, provided they have two half barrels, the selectmen of Towns-
end giving a receipt for the same.
Ordered, That the petition of Col. Paul Dudley Sergent be commit-
ted to Col. Parks, Major Fuller of Middleton, and Mr. Nye.
Ordered, That the petition from Penobscot [for ammunition and
provisions] be recommitted.
Ordered, That Doct. Francis Kittridge be desired to attend the hos-
pital, as a surgeon, till the further order of Congress, and that Mr.
Kendall be desired to inform Doct. Kittridge of his appointment.
Ordered, That the colonels of the several regiments in the Massa-
chusetts army, be directed to recommend, immediately, suitable persons
for surgeons and surgeons' mates.
Ordered, That a recommendation from the committee of safety, re-
specting aids de camp, be committed to Col. Glover, Major Goodwin
and Dr. Whiting.
Ordered, That Major Whittemore, Mr. Davis and Deacon [■'Gould,]
be a committee to distribute the handbills respecting the due observ-
ance of the Lord's day.
Ordered, That Mr. Pickering be appointed, in the room of Col.
Cofhn, to consider the petition of Mr. Kirkwood, keeper of the light-
house on Thatcher's island.'
Q [Goo!.]
(1) James Kirkwood rcprc-senteil, thut ho had boon deprivoil of his salary fur two yc-ars, and had
not boon romuneratud lor his liisbursements in maintainijiK ''le liglils on Thatcher's island, and
1775] TFliriD PKOVTNCIAI, CONUllESS. 376
Ordered, Tliat Mr. Hinsdale, Col. Farley and Capt. \\A\r\uU\cr , he
a committee to t;ikc info rousidfTalion a petition from i'n-orm- Vincent
of Salenj.
Ordered, That Doct. Whiting be appointed to draft a r«'srj|ve, that
application be made to the committee of safety by every persf)n that i.s
to be appf)inted a military ollicer.
Ordered, Tiiiit the proclamation for a fast be recommitted for
amendment, and that .Mr. Webster and Deacon Fisher be added to the
committee.
Ordered, That a hosiiital be provided for the camp at Ro.vbnry, and
that Col. Davis, Doct. Taylor and Doct. Whiting, be a committee to
provide one accordingly, and to snpply the same.
Ordered, That Major Fuller of Newton, be appointed to take care
of the plates, until the further order of this Congress, or some future
house of representatives of this colony.
Ordered, That Major Hawley, Mr. Webster and Col. Gcrrish, be a
committee to take into consideration Col. Phiney's regiment.
Ordered, That Mr. Goodman be appointed, in the room of Col.
Grout, on the petition of Mr. Parry.
Aflcrnoon.
Ordered, That Mr. Paul Revere's account^ be com-iiitted to Col.
Farley, Mr. Hall and Mr. Bailey.
Ordered, That Capt. Batchelder, Major Goodwin and Mr. Hobart,
be a committee to consider the propriety of commissioning the officers
in Col. Gerrish's regiment.
Ordered, That Mr. Pickering be appointed, to fill up commissions
for Samuel Patch, as captain, and Zachariah Walker and Joshua
Brown, as lieutenants, in Col. William Prescott's regiment.
Ordered, That a letter be sent to General Ward, in answer to his
letter, and that Col. Lincoln be appointed tor that .service.
Voted, That a particular number of men shall be settled, to entitle
Col. Phiney to the command of a regiment.
Voted, That Col. Phiney be directed to bring up to the camp four
hundred men with etfective fire arms, and that a time be limited to
bring up one hundred more, at least, with effective fire arms, and in
that case [he] to be entitled to a colonel's commission, and not other-
wise.
prayed relief from the pecuniary difficulties he experienced by reason of the po»i[poiipinrnt of the
payments due for his services and expenses.
(1) Col. Paul Revere charged for engraving four copper plates of the colony note«, at C/. each,
24{. ; and for printing 14,500 impressions, at 3/. 6s. Sd. the thousand, 48/. 6<. 8ci.
376 THIRD PROVINCIAL CONGRESS. [June -22,
Ordered, That Mr. Pickering be appointed, to make out commis-
sions to the officers in Col. Gerrish's regiment.
Ordered, That the committee of safety be directed, as soon as pos-
sible, to prepare and transmit to this Congress, perfect lists of the
names of such gentlemen as they judge fit and worthy to be commis-
sioned in the several regiments granted by this Congress, and for which
the said committee have not already transmitted lists, that so our army
raav be organized as soon as possible.
On the petition of the selectmen of the town of Townshend, Re-
solved, that it be recommended to the selectmen of the town of Ashby,
to deliver to the selectmen of the town of Townshend, one half barrel
of gunpowder for the use of the inhabitants of said Townshend; which
shall be replaced in the town of Ashby by this Congress, or a house of
representatives, so soon as the state of our magazines will admit; or
otherwise, said town of Ashby shall be fully paid for said powder, out
of the public treasurv : provided the said town of Ashby have two half
barrels, as has been represented to this Congress.
The committee appointed to consider by what means the army before
Boston, may be effectually and most expeditiously strengthened, beg
leave to report in part, that they judge it absolutely necessary that the
eight companies stationed in the county of Plymouth, belonging partly
to General Thomas's regiment, and partly to Col. Cotton's regiment,
be immediately ordered to join the army as soon as possible, and that
directions be immediately given to General Ward for that purpose.
Joseph Hawley, per order}
[The committee reported the following letter to general Ward, which
was accepted :]
Sir : — As it appears to this Congress highly probable, that the army
of our enemies will speedily make the utmost efforts to force your lines
and penetrate into the country, they have judged it absolute! v necessary
for the strengthening of the army before Boston, that the eight compa-
nies now posted in the county of Plymouth, belonging partly to Gen-
eral Thomas's regiment, and partly to Col. Cotton's regiment, should
immediately join the said army. You are therefore directed, without
delay, to give the orders necessary for the marching the said eight com-
panies to the said army as soon as may be.
(1) In the original journal, the resolve in relation to the removal of the troops from Plymouth, ii
repeated, under the date of Jane 23.
1775.] THIRD PROVINCIAL CONGRESS. 377
Resolved, Tliat [* the colonels] in the Massachusetts army, be and
they are hereby directed, immediately to inform the committee appointed
by Congress to examine the surgeons for said army, whom they re-
commend for the surgeons and surgeon's mates of their respective regi-
ments, and send them to said committee for examinatjon, without de-
lay ; except such as have been examined.
Resolved, That George Vincent be, and he hereby is permitted to
export from Salem to the West Indies, about forty one barrels of ale-
wives, and said Vincent is also permitted to take on board his vessel,
provisions sufficient for his voyage to the said West Indies, and no
more, and the committee of safety of the town of Salem, are hereby di-
rected to see this resolve strictly complied with.
On a petition of a number of the inhabitants settled on Penobscot
river, the inhabitants of Belfast, Majabigwaduce, and Benjamin's river,
representing the difficulties and distress said inhabitants are under, in
respect to the scarcitv of corn and ammunition, and praying for some
relief, Resolved, that it be recommended by this Congress, to the com-
mittee of safety of the town of Gloucester, or Newburyport, or to the
like committees of safety, or correspondence, of any other towns within
this colony, to supply Capt. Jonathan Buck, one of the petitioners, for
the use of said inhabitants, for their present relief, with two hundred
bushels of indian corn, or to that amount in corn and rye, and take, in
return for the same, cord wood, or such other payment as the said Buck
may be able to make, on his security therefor ; and in case the said
Buck shall not make satisfaction for the same, in a reasonable time, it
shall be allowed and paid, out of the public treasury of this colony, and
the said Buck shall refund the same as soon as may be : and that Col.
Goldthwait deliver up all the public arras and ammunition in his possess-
ion, to the petitioners, or a committee appointed by them for that pur-
pose : and, as to powder, they shall be reasonably supplied therewith, as
soon as the state of our magazine will admit thereof.
Friday, June 23, 1775,
Ordered, That Col. Cushing, Mr. Lothrop, Mr. Pickering, Mr.
Wheeler, and Mr. Langdon, be a committee to fill up commissions, and
that no one of said gentlemen quit the house without leave.
Ordered, That the officers in Col. Glover's regiment, be commis-
sioned, except Capt. Lee and his subalterns.
Ordered, That the pay of the ensigns be augmented to three pound
a [each coloneLj
48
378 THIRD PROVINCIAL CONGRESS. [June 23.
ten shillings, and those that are returned as ensigns, be commissioned
as second lieutenants.
Ordered, That the petition of Bridget Philips, be dismissed ; that
directions be given to General Ward, not to permit Bridget Philips,
wife to an officer in Boston, to go into Boston, nor any other person
whatever, and that Major Goodwin, be directed to bring in a resolve
for that purpose.
Ordered, That a commission be given to Col. Gridley, as chief en-
gineer and colonel, with the rank of major general, and that the lieu-
tenant colonel of the train have the rank of colonel, and that the ma-
jors have the rank of lieutenant colonels; and that the captains [have]
the rank of majors, captain lieutenants and first lieutenants the rank of
captains ; and that the rank of the other officers be suspended for the
present.
Ordered, That the report respecting Col. Phiney's regiment be re-
committed, in order to bring in a resolve directing Col. Phiney, to
bring to the camp, 400 men with effective fire arms, and in that case
[he] to be commissioned as first colonel, with a major under him ; and
in case he brings up 500 men, all the officers to be appointed ; and in
case he brings up but 300 men, [he] to receive a commission as lieu-
tenant colonel ; also, that his men be brought up to camp at the ex-
pense of the government.
Ordered, That the committee appointed to disperse the handbills
respecting the due observance of the Lord's day, be directed to make
a computation what number are wanted, and order them to be printed,
and that one be struck off for each parish.
Ordered, That General Fry be commissioned as a major general,
and that the president be directed to administer the oath to him.
Ordered, That the oath for general officers be altered, and that the
words, " or house of representatives, or legislative body of said colony,"
be added.
Ordered, That Mr. Lane's account for bringing up the Indians, be
committed to Mr. Langdon, Capt. Goodman, Capt. Holmes, Capt.
Parker, and Capt. Carpenter, to take the same into consideration, and
report thereon.
The committee appointed to provide a hospital for the camp in Rox-
bury, reported as follows : That they have appointed the house be-
longing to Joshua Loring, in said Roxbury, for a hospital, and for the
use of said camp. The report was accepted.
Ordered, That the account of Capt. Kirkwood, be recommitted to
1775] Till 111) IMiOVINCIAL CONGIIESS. 379
the coinmittce :i|)|)oiiite(l to take that matter into coiisifleration, and
that Major Wliittcniore, and Mr. Ulover, be a(ldf<l to the coniniittee.
Ordered, That tlie consideration of the appointment «jr(|narter mas-
ter generals, and adjutant rrenerals, be deferred to four o'clock, 1* M.,
and that Mr. llobart, be appointed to wait on General Ward, to [re-
quest him to] nominate an adjutant general.
Ordered, That to-morrow, eleven o'clock, A. M., be a.'^.signed to
come to the choice of four brigadier general.s.
Ordered, That a committ{;e be appointed to draw up the i'orin of
warrants for stalf officers, and that the committees appoint(<i to deliver
out commissions be appointed for that purpose.
The committee appointed to take into consideration Col. Phiney's
regiment, reported. The report was accepted, and is as follows,
viz. :
Hesolved, That Col. Edmund Phiney, heretofore authorized by the
committee of safety to raise a regiment for the service of this colony,
but [who] has not yet effected it, be directed to proceed, with the
greatest diligence and despatch in that business, and in case he shall,
on or before the fifteenth day of July next, join the army of this colo-
ny, now before Boston, with four hundred effective men, each armed
with a good effective firelock, the said Phiney, shall be entitled to be
commissioned as a colonel, on the pay established by this Congress for
a chief colonel ; and that there shall be also allowed to the said body,
one major, and no other field officers ; and in case the said Phiney,
shall procure an addition of one hundred effective men, or upwards,
and each armed with an effective firelock, by the last day of July next,
that, in such case, the said one hundred men shall be joined to the
aforesaid four hundred men, and both the said numbers shall con.<titute
one regiment, and then the choice of field officers shall be completed,
and a proper number of subordinate officers, commissioned : but in case
the said Phiney shall fail of procuring four hundred effective men,
armed as aforesaid, but shall ["procure] to be enlisted, and brought to
the said army, by the said fifteenth day of July next, a number of ef-
fective men, all armed as aforesaid, less than four hundred, and not
less than three hundred, he shall be entitled to be commissioned as a
lieutenant colonel, and that allowance shall hereafter be made of all
reasonable expenses in marching said men to the said army. And that
the said Phiney, be specially instructed not to march any man to the
said camp, who is not furnished with a good effective firelock, and that
no man without a firelock, shall be accounted, or reckoned, as going
k [produce.]
380 THIRD PROVINCIAL CONGRESS. [June 23,
to constitute the numbers above mentioned, which shall entitle him
to either of the aforesaid commissions proposed for him.
Ordered, That the secretary be directed to make out a copy of the
resolve respecting Col. Phiney's regiment.
Afternoon.
The committee appointed to take into consideration the price of
blankets, to be given the soldiers, reported as follows ; which [report]
was accepted, viz. :
Resolved, That the sum of twelve shillings, lawful money, be the
stated price for each blanket allowed to the soldiers in the Massachu-
setts army ; and such soldiers as have, or shall be supplied with blank-
ets of less value, as may appear by the appraisement of the selectmen,
shall have the overplus made up to them by those who supplied said
soldiers, and the abovesaid twelve shillings shall be allowed, out of the
public treasury, for each blanket.
Ordered, That nine o'clock, to-morrow morning, be assigned to take
into consideration an establishment for the brigadier generals, and quar-
ter master generals, and adjutant generals.
Ordered, That the time assigned for the choice of quarter master
generals, and adjutant generals, be deferred to to-morrow morning, at
ten o'clock, A. M.
Ordered, That a letter from Mr. Hooper of Newburyport,^ be re-
ferred to the committee of supplies, they to make report.
Ordered., That Daniel Noyes, of Ipswich, be appointed a postmaster,
in the room of Mr. James Foster, who has resigned that office.
Ordered, That Major Fuller of Middleton, be directed to wait on
General Whitcomb, and desire him to attend this Congress, and re-
ceive his commission.
Ordered, That Doct. Taylor, Major Fuller of Middleton, and Col.
Thompson, be a committee to take into consideration the regiment that
was moved from Marblehead to Cambridge, immediately, and that the
committee be directed to go to Cambridge, and inquire into it, and
make report.
Ordered, That the committee appointed to fill up commissions, be
directed to fill up a commission for General Whitcomb.
Ordered, That Mr. Nye, be appointed to number the notes signed
by Deacon Plympton.
(1) Stephen HDopcr, Esq. states, that the committee of Pottsmoutli had received from Baltimore,
fifty barrels of Hour, inteiuled as a donation for the inhabitants of Boston : but, as the New Hamp-
shire troops needed supplies, they desired to purchase and retain the flour.
1775.] TITFUn PROVINCIAL CONGRESS. 881
Onlcrfd, That Capt. Spraeruc, Capt. White and Doct. Whiting, be
a committee to take into consideration a petition from the town of
Maiden.
Ordered, That Mr. Hopkins, Capt. Bragdon and Mr. Phillips, be a
committee to take into consideration the circumstances of the Rever-
end Doct. I.angdon, president of the college, and report thereon.
Ordered, That a committee be appointed to consider of proper ex-
pedients to augment the army, and, in particular, to write to the other
New England governments on the subject, and that they be directed
to attend the service immediately.
Ordered, That Mr. Nye be excused from attending the service, in
numbering the notes signed by Deacon Plympton, and that Mr. Holmes
be appointed in his room, and be directed to attend that service imme-
diately.
Ordered, That the report of the committee, who were ordered to
inquire into the misconduct in the late engagement, lie on the table
till they are ready to report in full.
Ordered, That the committee of safety be directed to make out a
new list for officers of the train of artillery, and that no person unwor-
thy of the office be appointed.
The committee appointed to take into consideration Capt. Lane's
account for bringing up the Indians from Penobscot, reported, that his
account be allowed, and that the receiver general be directed to pay
said account to Capt. Lane, or order ; and likewise, that the sum of
nineteen pounds, ten shillings, eight pence, lawful money, be paid by
the receiver general to Capt. Lane, to defray his expenses in carrying
the Indians back to Penobscot, and that Mr. Langdon be appointed to
draft a resolve for that purpose.
The committee appointed to take into consideration a letter from
Mr. Stephen Hooper of Nevvburyport, reported as follows, viz. :
Resolved, That those of the committee of donations of the town of
Boston, who have left said town, viz., Messrs. Benjamin Austin, Na-
thaniel Barber and Proctor, be advised to sell the fifty barrels of
flour sent from Baltimore for the use of the poor of Boston, now in
the hands of the committee of correspondence of Portsmouth, to the
same committee, for the use of the New Hampshire troops.^
The committee appointed to take into consideration the request from
the town of Maiden, reported as follows, which was accepted, viz. : the
(I) The report of the committee to consider what measure? shouhl be adopted to strengthen the
army before Boston, in relation to the removal of the troops from Plymouth county, inserted in th«
journal of the proceedings of the twenty-second of June, and repeated in the original, has boon
oraitted.
382 THIRD PROVINCIAL CONGRESS. [June 23,
committee beg leave to report, that the inhabitants of the town of Mai-
den be [directed] to make the best use of their artillery they can, for
their defence, in case they shall be attacked by the enemy, and that
they make their application for assistance to the general of the army,
who, doubtless, will furnish them with such detachments from the
army, as they shall judge necessary and expedient.
The committee appointed to draft a resolve for the receiver general
to pay to Capt. Lane .£19 10s. 8(1., for defraying the expense of carry-
ing the Indians back to Penobscot, reported as follows, viz. :
Resolved, That there be paid, out of the public treasury of this col-
ony, to Mr. John Lane, or order, the sum of £ld lOs. 8d., to pay the
expenses of himself, four Indian chiefs, and an interpreter, from Wa-
tertown to Penobscot, and the receiver general is hereby directed to
pay the same accordingly.
Voted, That the former vote respecting the removal of the library,
apparatus, and other valuable effects of Harvard College, be reconsid-
ered, and that the following resolve be accepted, viz. : Whereas, it is
expedient that those apartments in Harvard Hall, under the immediate
charge of the professor of philosophy and librarian of Harvard College,
be evacuated : Resolved, tliat the library, apparatus, and other valuables
of Harvard College, be removed, as soon as may be ; that Mr. Samuel
Phillips, Mr. Daniel Hopkins and Dummer Jewett, Esq., be a commit-
tee to consult with the reverend, the president, the Hon. Mr. Winthrop
and the librarian, or such of them as may be conveniently obtained,
and, with them, to engage .some suitable person or persons in the town
of Andover, and such other places as they may think best, to receive
and take the charge of the above mentioned effects; that said commit-
tee join with those gentlemen, in employing proper persons for packing
said library, apparatus, and such other articles as they shall judge ex-
pedient, and take all due care, that it be done with the greatest safety
and despatch; and, as the packages shall be complete'l, that they take
due care for their transportation : the charges to be laid before this, or
some future Congress, or house of assembly of this province.
Ordered, That Mr. Hale, Capt. Parker and Capt. Bragdon, be a com-
mittee to take Capt. Lane's account of his time into consideration, and
report thereon.
Resolved, That Winthrop Sergeant of Gloucester, merchant, be al-
lowed to ship off for the West Indies, a quantity of old Jamaica fish,
not exceeding forty hogsheads, it appearing to this Congress, that the
said fish, if stopped, will be of little or no service to this colony ; and
the committee of safety for Gloucester are directed to cause this resolve
1775.] TIIIMI) PROVINCIAI- CONGRESS.
to l)e so carried into cxocution, as that no other provisions, pxcrnt for
the vessels' nso, l)e shipped off in the same.
Voted, Tliat the receiver general be directed to pay to tlie Reverend
Doct. Laniidon, president of the college, c£"l()(), lawl'ul money, in hills
of credit of this colony.
Ordered, That the conunittee appointed to consider hy what means
the army before Boston, may be effectually and most expeditiously
strengthened, be directed to write a letter to General Ward : who re-
ported a letter to General Ward, directing him to rail rm the eight
companies stationed in the county of Plymouth.'
Tiie committee appointed to take into consideration the petition of
Robert Haskell, beg leave to report by way of resolve : Resolved, that
the petitioner, Rol)ert Haskell, be perinitted to proceed from Beverly
to Nova Scotia in a fishing vessel, about seventeen yecirs old, that he hath
procured for that purpose, also to carry three or four persons with him,
and the following provisions, viz. : one barrel of pork, two hundred
[pounds] of bread, sixteen gallons of rum, sixteen gallons of molasses,
half a bushel of beans or peas, and two bushels of salt , but no more
provisions of any kind whatever : and that such proceeding will not be
contrary to the resolve passed by the grand American Congress, the
17th of May last, or any other resolve that honorable Congress have yet
published.
Resolved, That the committee of safety be directed to make out a
new list for officers of the train of artillery, that no person unworthy
of office be appointed.
Saturday, June 24, 1775.
Ordered, That Doct. Taylor, Col. Sawyer and Capt. Batchelder, be
a committee to consider some method for regulating trade with the
Indians.
Major Fuller, Doct. Bailey and Capt. Goodman, [were] appointed a
committee to consider the expediency of part of Col. Phiney's regi-
ment being stationed in the counties of Cumberland and Lincoln.
Ordered, That Mr. Langdon, Col. Sawyer and Capt. Goodman, be
a committee to consider what is further necessary to be done respect-
ing the bills of credit of this colony.
Voted, That there shall be two surgeons and two mates appointed
for each hospital, and commissioned accordingly.
Ordered, That the committee appointed to examine the surgeons,
be desired to report an establishment for surgeons of hospitals.
(1) This paragraph seems, in making up the journal, to have been inadvertently inserted, the sub-
ject having been disposed of on the preceding day.
384 THIRD PROVINCIAL CONGRESS. [June 24,
The committee appointed to consider an establishment for the sur-
geons of hospitals, reported : the report was accepted, and is as fol-
lows, viz. : that it is their opinion, that the establishment of the chief
surgeons should be at the rate of eight pounds per month, and each
mate, four pounds, ten shillings, per month.
Ordered, That Col. Freeman, Col. Farley and Capt. Stone, be a
committee to get the resolve for a fast printed, and one sent to each
religious society in this colony . [which is as follows, viz. :]
[Whereas, it hath pleased Almighty God, the wise and good Governor
of the Universe, in his righteous providence, for our many sins, to suf-
fer the sword of the British troops to be unsheathed against the inhabi-
tants of this colony, in such a cruel and unnatural manner as must give
the world the most indisputable proofs of the wicked designs to destroy
or enslave this whole continent : as in the unprovoked and unnatural
instances of hostilities, cruelty and barbarity, of the ever memorable
19th of April last, whereby so many of the brave and inoffensive in-
habitants of this colony were murdered : and the several attacks which
have since been made by the said troops on us between that day and
the 17th instant, when our country resounded with the roar of cannon
from the once peaceful shores and harbor near the capital, when there
was scarce aught but smoke, fire, and blood, to be seen there, whereby
the lives of many of our countrymen, bravely fighting in defence of the
rights of America, were lost; together with their laying the opulent
town of Charlestown, in a most savage manner, in ashes :]
[And whereas, some more late oppressive acts of the British parlia-
ment are designed by them soon to be enforced upon the Americans;
and as large reenforcements are arrived and arriving to join our ene-
mies in Boston, which will probably induce them to make another trial
of military prowess, to penetrate into the country ; and we, being taught,
not only by these sore trials, but also by the great mercies of our God,
who has hitherto so remarkably covered the heads of our people in
the day of battle, to be deeply impressed with a sense of our absolute
dependance upon the Lord of Hosts, and God of Armies, for success
in this important war, into which we are driven by our enemies, do re-
nounce all confidence in our own strength ; but, being fully assured our
cause is just, and relying on the mercy of God for his divine protection
and assistance therein : therefore. Resolved, that Thursday, the 13th
day of July next, be observed as a day of public fasting and prayer,
throughout this colony, that we may all, at one time, sincerely humble
ourselves before the searcher of hearts for all our many sins, as a peo-
ple, and as individuals, and humbly and earnestly beseech his forgive-
1775.] THIRD I'ROVINCIAL CONGRHSS. 385
ness, and his blessin^r on us : tl)at lie would (rrnriously aiTord his divine
direction and assistance in our military operations, and spcfidily cause
our enemies to be at ])cace with us upon a just and permanent founda-
tion, that not oidy a stop may be put to the wanton ellusion of hinnan
blood, but that Great Britain and these colonies may again rejoice in
the free and undisturbed exercise of all those rights, liberties and priv-
ileges, civil and religious, for the enjoyment of which our [)ious ances-
tors braved every danger, by which they have rendered tlieir memory
dear to us, their posterity, and set an examjjle worthy the imitation of
all succeeding generations: that he would grant us health in our army
and in all our habitations, succeed us in all our lawful employments,
give us rain from heaven to water the dry and thirsty earth, and fruitful
seasons, and fill our hearts with food and gladness : that he would be-
stow his blessing upon the various means used for the recovery and
preservation of our just rights, particularly on the congresses and
houses of assembly of this and the sister colonies, and especially on
the American Congress, that they may all be inspired with that wisdom
that is necessary in this day of difficulty and distress : that he would
smile on the measures taken for the exercise of civil government in
this colony ; above all, that he would sanctify to us the various dispen-
sations of his righteous providence, that we may be prepared for what-
ever he may call us to do or suffer, be a peculiar people to himself, and
our persons and services accepted of him through Christ our Re-
deemer. And it is hereby earnestly recommended to each and every
religious society, of whatever denomination, in this colony, strictly to
abstain from all servile labor and recreation on said day, to mix their
fasting with humble thankfulness for the many signal and undeserved
mercies we enjoy, and observe said day in a religious manner, by turn-
ing every one from his evil ways to God, that so he may turn unto us
and not forsake his heritage.]
The committee appointed to take into consideration the wages of
Capt. John Lane and JNIr. Gilmore, for their attendance in bringing up
four Indians from Penobscot, reported. [The report is as follows,
viz. :] The committee for examining the account of Mr. John Lane,
have attended that service, [and] found the said Lane's account well
supported, excepting a few inaccuracies in casting; they therefore beg
leave to report by way of resolve, viz. :
Resolved, That there be paid, out of the public treasury of this col-
ony, to Mr. John Lane, the sum of forty-seven pounds, eighteen shil-
lings, and eleven pence half penny, for his expenses in bringing up to
the Congress four of the chiefs of the Penobscot tribe of Indians, with
49
386 THIRD PROVINCIAL CONGRESS. [June 24,
an interpreter ; and the receiver general of this colony, is hereby di-
rected to pay the said John Lane, or order, the aforesaid sum of iorty-
seven pounds, eighteen shillings, eleven pence halfpenny.
Mr. Freeman, and Capt. Bragdon, were added to the committee ap-
pointed to consider the expediency of stationing part of Col. Phiney's
regiment in the county of Cumberland.
Ordered, That Capt. Lane be admitted on the floor of the house, in
order to answer such questions as the Congress shall propose to him.
Ordered, That the committee of supplies be directed to supply the
four Indians brought up by Capt. Lane, with a pair of shoes each.
Ordered, That Mr. Mighill, Mr. Hobart, Capt. Webster and Mr-
Lothrop, be added to the committee to consider the petition of Edward
Parry.
The committee appointed to take into consideration the circum-
stances of the Rev. Doct. Langdon, president of the college, reported
as follows, viz. : Resolved, that there be allowed and paid out of the
public treasury of this colony, the sum of .£100, lawful money, in bills
of credit of this colony, to the Rev. Doct. Langdon, president of Har-
vard College, in part for his services in that station, since his appoint-
ment thereto : and the treasurer and receiver general is hereby direct-
ed to pay the said sum in bills of credit, accordingly. ^
Ordered, That the report of the committee to consider Capt. Lane's
services be recommitted.
Ordered, That Col. Gerrish, Mr. Wheeler and Col. Farley, be a
committee to consider and report what is to be done with the overplus
bills.
Ordered, That Deacon Fisher be appointed in the place of Capt.
Bragdon, to consider the services of Capt. Lane, in bringing up four
Indian chiefs.
The committee appointed to take into consideration the petition of
James Kirkwood, keeper of the lights on Thatcher's island, reported :
the report was accepted, and is as follows, viz. :
Resolved, That there be allowed and paid, out of the public treasury,
to Capt. James Kirkwood, sixty pounds, for one year's salary as keeper
of the light-houses on Thatcher's island, and also eighteen pounds,
eighteen shillings more, being for his disbursements, in repairing
buildings, and other work done there, box of medicines, and several
other necessaries, as per his account, herewith exhibited : and the re-
ceiver general is, accordingly, hereby directed to pay the said Capt.
(1) The a]i[)ropii:itiiiii lor tlnj s:il:iry of Doi-t. L:iii»ilo[i IkuI Ijncii iii.-uic on tlie preceding day : the
grant in set out more (uniKilly in this resolution, thjin in that of Juno 23.
1775.] THIRD PROVINCIAL CONCiRKSS. 387
Kirlvwood, tlio ar)rf"<'ii(l stms, Ji'iiotjiitiii:; to s'm r-ri'v-fi^'it p>*in'h,
tliirlccii sliilliiiiTs, tlic siiiiic to !»(• paid in liills ot'crctlil ol' this colony.
On/rrti/, Tliat tlirce (/clock, P. M., he assigned to come to the
choice oi;i rroiillcnian to preach the election sermon.
The coinniitle(! appointed to draft a resolve respecting Hridijet Phil-
lips, wife of an olliccr in Genera! Gage's army, reported : the report was
read and accepted, and is as follows, viz. : licsolvrd, that General Ward
do not sulTer or permit Bridiret Phillips, wife to an ollicer under Gene-
ral Gage, to go into Boston, nor any other person whatever, without
leave first ohtained of this Congress, or some future house of repre.sen-
tatives; and that an express he forthwith sent to the committee of
safety for the town of Nevvburyport, to order them to lake the most
effectual measures to prevent the said Bridget from going out of this
province, or to Boston.
The committee appointed to take into consideration, and report the
form of a commission for brigadier generals, quarter master generals,
and adjutant generals, adjutants, quarter masters, and surgeons, report-
ed a form, which was accepted.
Onlcred, That the form of a commission lie on the table.
The committee appointed to hire a house of John Hunt, Esq., for a
hospital, reported the following proposal, which was accepted, viz. :
Gentlemen : — With respect to the hire of the house belonging to
John Hunt, Esq , for a hospital, the proprietor only e.xpects such a
consideration from the colony, as will be a satisfaction for the necessa-
ry damage to the house, expecting proper care will be taken that the
out-houses, &c., be kept in good order.
W. Hunt, in behalf of the proprietor.
Ordered, That the committee appointed to procure spears for the
armv, be directed to use their discretion in procuring poles for the
handles of the spears.
Aflernoon.
The committee appointed to prepare a letter to the lieutenant gov-
ernor and company of Rhode Island, reported : the report was accept-
ed, and similar letters, so far as circumstances will admit, ordered to
be sent to Connecticut and New Hampshire. ['I'he letter to the gov-
ernor of Connecticut is as follows :]
Gover.vor Trttmihi.l.
May it please your honor : — From advices received divers ways, we
have the greatest reason to determine, that all the British troops al-
388 THIRD PROVINCIAL CONGRESS. [June 24
ready destined, or that may be yet ordered to America this season, will
come to Boston, it being evidently their design, if possible, to rout our
army before that place, destroy all our magazines, and thereby to strike
terror and faintness into the hearts of all the friends to right and liberty
throughout the continent, to revive and animate the scattered friends,
and break the union of the colonies, and in that way insure final suc-
cess to their tyranny. This being undoubtedly the plan of our ene-
mies, it is of inexpressible consequence, that the ground which w^e
have taken should at all events be maintained. Your honor is, no
doubt, fully sensible that our army, for the present, is unavoidably
checked, with regard to offensive operations, for a reason of which you
are not unapprized : but, however, we have the means of acting on the
defensive.
As Boston is impregnable against every thing but great artillery,
very few troops are sufficient to keep it ; and as there are two passes
at least, very distant from each other, by which the enemy will probably
attempt to advance into the country, it is thereby rendered necessary
that we should throw our army into at least two grand divisions, each of
which ought to be able to withstand almost the whole strength of the
enemy. Your honor is acquainted, that it was, at first, supposed to be
necessary, that 30, 0(H) men should be raised, and stationed to act for
this season in the environs of Boston. Thirteen thousand, six hundred,
was the number supposed by our Congress, to be the colony's propor-
tion of such an army : and that number we have, to our utmost, been
endeavoring fully to complete ; but, because there are deficiencies in
our regiments, as your honor well knows there always will be in such
cases, in order to make that quota good, we have been obliged to increase
the number of the regiments ; but still, there is a deficiency, and, because
of the inexpressible importance of having our army eflfectually strong,
we are, with unremitted efforts, and by every device, at vast expense,
laboring to make that number fully complete, or rather to exceed it.
May it please your honor: — Because we are so vastly apprehensive
of the fatal consequences of a general defeat of this army to the whole
American cause, and are so unutterably solicitous to have it effectually
strengthened, we have called in every individual of our levies from all
our outposts, to join the army; although, by tliat measure, we expose
all our towns on the sea coasts to the rage and depredations of the en-
emy, and run the dreadful risk of the best of our towns being reduced
to ashes, and taking the miserable fate of Charlestown.
We beg leave to acquaint your honor, that it is most clearly our
opinion, and that we have the best grounds to suppose, that, as soon as
the enemy have recovered a little breath from their amazing fatigues of
1775.] THIRD PROVINCIAL CONGRESS. 3P9
the seventeenth of June, and the surprising losses wliich tlu-v then un-
douhledly sustained, shall lie made up l)y arrivals ol" new lr<j«»ps, whicli
is almost daily takin^x place, they will direct all lluir force to some one
point, and make the utmost etforts to force our lines, destroy our majr-
azines, and theiehy strike general terror and ama/enient into the hearts
of the inhabitants oi' the whole continent.
From this view of the case, we cannot, a moment longer, forhcar
addressing your honor, and most earnestly suggesting to the immediate
consideration of your general assembly, not oidy the expediency, hut
indispensable necessity, of an immediate augmentation of the troops
from your colony, for the more eflTectual strengthening of the army.
What the nund)er of tlie augmentation ought to be, we most cheerfully
submit to the good judgment of your asscmblv, not in the least doubt-
ing, but their wisdom and justice will direct and dispose them to do all
that is proper, in so important a crisis as we really consider the
present.
We need not express to your honor, the indi.spensable necessity of
despatch in making reenforcements, nor the propriety and advantage
of marching any new levies, which your assembly may order, with all
possible speed, without the first raised companies waiting for the com-
pleting of others; inasmuch as your colony has here, on the spot, all
the proper officers to make the necessary disposition for their recep-
tion, and as the season of their being of any advantage for the support
of our army, may be irrevocably lapsed before their arrival, if the least
unnecessary delay should be indulged.
We have made a representation to the lieutenant governor of Rhode
Island, similar to the foregoing, and are about to make a like represen-
tation to the congress of New Hampshire, and to send the same by
special express.
We suppose the whole number of our enemy's land forces, when
joined w'ith the four regiments which were ordered to New York, will
amount to upwards of ten thousand, exclusive of negroes and tories,
who are every way provided and furnished, in the best manner, for
action.
We have the fullest confidence, that your honor's zeal and ardor for
the salvation of our country, and the preservation of our inestimable
rights, will render any importunity unnecessary, to induce you to take
all the requisite steps to effect the proposed augmentation, for which
we are most solicitous.
Ordered, That Major Hawley, Col. Gerrish and the president, be a
390 THIRD PROVINCIAL CONGRESS. [Jusie 24,
committee to take into consideration, and report thereon, a letter from
General Ward, informing of the desertion of Lieut. Cox of Salem, and
a number of men.
Ordered, That Major Hawley and the president be excused, and
that Col. Porter and Doct. Church be appointed in their room.
The committee appointed to consider theexpediency of stationingpart
of Col. Phiney's regiment in the counties of Cumberland and Lincoln,
reported : the report was accepted, and is as follows, viz. : Whereas,
it appears to this Congress to be necessary, that some provision should
be made for the defence and protection of the sea coasts in the counties
of Cumberland and Lincoln ; therefore, Resolved, that the resolve
which passed yesterday, relative to Col. Phiney's regiment, be so far
reconsidered, as that the remainder of said regiment, at\er 400 thereof
have marched to the camp at Cambridge, be immediately raised and
stationed in such places in the said counties, as shall be thought best
by General Preble, Col. Enoch Freeman and Major Wheaton of St.
Georo-es, until they receive further orders from the Congress, or a gen-
eral assembly of this colony : and that, after they are at first stationed,
they shall be under the direction of Col. Enoch Freeman, who is here-
by empowered to order and dispose of them, as, in his opinion, will
most conduce to the general interest. And the committee of supplies
are hereby directed to supply said troops with provisions, agreeably to
the allowance as established by this Congress.
And it is recommended to the selectmen of the several towns in the
counties aforesaid, to supply the said troops with ammunition, which
shall be replaced as soon as the colony magazine can be supplied, or
paid for out of the public treasury ; and that Col. Freeman be, and
hereby is appointed, to muster the said men, and to see that they are
all well prepared with fire arms and other accoutrements.
Mr. Hubbard was appointed in the room of Col. Farley on Mr. Re-
vere's account.
Ordcrc'l, That the proclamation for a fast be suspended.
The committee appointed to consider the letter from General Ward,
reported : the report was accepted, and is as follows, viz. :
Resolved, That it be recommended to General Ward, innnediately
to take effectual measures to apprehend Lieut. Cox, and such privates
as have been induced by the said Lieut. Cox to desert their duty, and
forthwith to bring [said] Cox, and such other deserters as may be ap-
prehended, to their trial, that the said Lieut. Cox and his accomplices
may [receive] such condign punishment for their aggravated offences,
as, in the rules and orders of war, is provided for; and it is further
1775.] THIRD PROVINCIAL CONCiRESS. 391
recoiniiieii(I('(i to lliu coiiiiniltccs of oil deiioiiiiri:iti«jii.s, anil tin; .kcIpcI-
iiieii of any town where said deserters may bo, to allord all pohsible
aid and assistance to the general in apprehending tlioni.
OnUrcfl, That the president, Air. Gerry, Major llawley, Deacon
Cheever, Col. Gerrish, Col. Lincoln and Col. Porter, be a couunittee
to consider what steps are proper U) Iv taken for receiving General
Washington with proper respect, and to provide a houso for him ac-
cordingly.
The committee appointed to consider what allowance is adequate to
the services of Caj)t. John Lane, &c., in bringing up four Indians
from Penobscot, reported : the report was accepted, and is as follows,
viz. :
The comrjiitiee appointed to consider what allowance is adequate to
the services of Capt. John Lane and Mr. Gilman, for their attendance
in bringing up to this town, four Indians of the Penobscot tribe, beg
leave to report : that the said Mr. Lane proceed to raise a company of
fifty-six efl'ective men, including sergeants, to join the army at Cam-
bridge, agreeably to the order of the committee of safety ; and upon
his raising said men, that he be entitled not only to a captain's com-
mission, but to the pay established for captains, to commence at the
time he received his orders from the committee of safety : that Mr.
Gilman be allowed for forty days' attendance as an interpreter to Mr.
Lane, at three shillings per day, six pounds; and that the said Mr. Gil-
man be presented with an honorary commission, with the rank of lieu-
tenant, atid be desired to use his influence to cultivate a peaceable
disposition in the Indians at St. Francois, and other parts adjoining,
and give intelligence of their temper and disposition, from time to time,
as he shall have opportunity, and as the importance of affairs may re-
quire; and all necessary charge and trouble for any important intelli-
gence so [communicated,] shall be suitably rewarded. ^
The committee for giving out commissions, were directed to make
out an honorary commission for Mr. Gilman, agreeably to the forego-
ing report.
Mr. Pickering [was] appointed to draw a resolve, directing the treas-
urer to pay Mr. John Lane and Andrew Gilman, agreeably to said
report.
Col. Porter was appointed to procure a scythe, and carry it to a
blacksmith, to be fixed for a spear, in such a manner as he thinks nt,
and brinor it before this Congress, when fixed.
(1) This resolve is repented in tlie journal of tlic next day.
392 THIRD PROVINCIAL CONGRESS. [June 24,
Mr. Pickering brought in a resolve as directed, which was accepted,
and is as follows, viz. :
Resolved, That there be allowed and paid out of the public treasury
of this colony, to Mr. Andrew Oilman, the sum of six pounds, in bills
of credit of this colony, for forty days' attendance as an interpreter to
four Indians of the Penobscot tribe, in their late attendance at an em-
bassy to this Congress ; and the receiver general is hereby directed to
pay the same sum of six pounds to Mr. Andrew Gilman, in bills of
credit, accordingly.
Ordered, That any one of the committee appointed to procure
spears, be empowered to order the blacksmith to work on the sabbath,
to complete the same as soon as possible.
Resolved, That it be recommended to our good brothers, the Indians
of the Penobscot tribe, to immediately apply to General Preble and Col.
Freeman of Falmouth, for a supply of provisions and all other necessa-
ry goods, and would recommend said gentlemen, as the most suitable
persons to supply the Indians, who will undoubtedly do them justice ;
and it is hereby recommended to General Preble and Col. Freeman, to
supply said Indians with provisions, and all other necessary articles,
upon the most equitable terms, and to receive their fur, and other
skins, in payment ; and the said General Preble and Col. Freeman, are
hereby desired to supply said Indians at the truck-house at Penobscot.
Ordered, That Capt. Stone, Col. Thompson and Capt. Bragdon, be
a committee to consider the request of Col. Freeman, to have the min-
ute company of the town of Sandwich stationed at Naushan island.
Monday morning, nine o'clock, was assigned, agreeably to a resolve
of the committee of safety, to choose a proper person to superintend
the armorers in the camp, and to see that they do their duty.
A letter from George Stillman to Col. Otis was read, and committed
to Mr. Goodwin, Mr. Langdon and Doct. Whiting.^
Mr. Lothrop, Mr. Dickerson and Mr. White, were appointed a com-
mittee to get the proclamation of the Continental Congress for a fast,
reprinted, and dispersed one to each religious assembly in the colony.-
(1) This letter related to the capture of a tender ; which is fully described in the raoiiioriul of the
inhabitants of Machiag.
(2) The fast appointed by the Continental Congress superseded tiiat directed by the provincial
assembly. The proclamation which follows was distributed and read from the desk of every church
of Massachusetts, instead of that adopted, and entered in the journ.il, page 334.
In Continental Congress, June 12, 1775-
As the great Governor of the world, by his supreme and universal providence, nor only conducts
the course of nature with unr>rring wisdom and rectituJe, but frequently influences the minds of
men to servo the wise and gracious purposes of his providential government ; and it being, at all
1775.] TflFRD PR(3VINCIAL CONGRESS. 308
Mr. Lothrop, Deacon Fisher and Mr. I'arkcr, wore apjtointed a com-
mittee to count and sort the votes for some person to preach an elec-
tion sermon on the HHh of July next.
The committee reported, that Mr. Gordon was uiiariimousiy chosen,
and the i)resident was appointed to inform him of this choice.
Adjourned to eight o'clock to-morrow mornincr.
Sabbath dat, June 25, 1775.
Ordered, That Capt. Brown, Major Fuller, Mr. Bigelow, Major
Brooks, Col. Smith and Deacon Stone, he a committee to procure four
hundred spades and shovels for the use of the army, inunediately. And
the said committee is directed to make a list of such persons, of whom
they may procure said spades and shovels, with the numher received of
each person, and the value thereof, and, when procured, that they im-
mediately forward them to the army at Cambridge.
The committee appointed to prepare an honorary commission for
Mr. Gilman, reported a form, which, being duly amended, was accept-
ed, and is as follows, viz. :
The Congress of the Colony of the Massachusetts Bay, to Andrew
Gilman, gentleman. Greeting.
We, entertaining a good opinion of your prudence, courage, and
good conduct, do appoint, and you the said Andrew Gilman are hereby
times, our indispensable duty devoutly to acknowledge his superintending providence, especially in
times of impending danger and public calamity, to reverence and adore his immutable jastice a«
well as to implore his merciful interposition for our deliverance.
This Congress, therefore, considering the present critical, alarming, and calamitous state of the»e
colonies, do earnestly recommend, that Thursday, the 20th day of July next, bo obser\-ed, by th«
inhabitants of all the English colonies on this continent, as a day of public humiliation, fasting, and
prayer: that we may, with united hearts and voices, unfeignedly confess and deplore our many
•ins ; and offer up our joint supplications to the all-wise, omnipotent, and merciful Disposer of all
events; humbly beseeching him to forgive our iniquities, to remove our present calamities, to avert
those desolating judgments, with which we are threatened, and to bless our rightful sovereign, kmg
George the third, and to inspire him with wisdom to discern and pursue the true interests of his
subjects, that a speedy end may be put to the civil discord between Great Britain and the Aroorican
colonies, without farther effusion of blood : and that the British nation may be influenced to regard
the things that belong to her peace, before they are hid from her eyes: that these colonies may
ever he under the care and protection of a kind Providence, and be prospered in all their interest* :
that the divine blessing may descend and rest upon our civil rulers, and upon the representatives of
the people, in their several assemblies and conventions, that they may be directed to wise and
e^Tectual measures for preserving the union, and securing the just rights and privileges of the colo-
nies ; that virtue and true religion may revive and flourish throughout our land : and that all Amer-
ica may soon behold a gracious interposition of Heaven for the redress of her many grievances, the
restoration of her invaded rights, a reconciliation with the parent state, on terms constitutional,
and honorable to both ; and that her civil and religious privileges may be secured to the latest pos-
terity.
And it is recommended to Christians, of all denominations, to osseroblo for public worship, and
to abstain from servile labor, and recreation on said day.
50
394 THIRD PROVINCIAL CONGRESS. [June 25,
appointed, to the honorary title of lieutenant; and you are to be con-
sidered of that rank, not only among the good people of this province,
but also among all our friends and brethren through the continent ;
and we confide in your readiness to promote the common cause of
America, among our good brothers, the Indians of the several tribes
which you may have opportunity to be acquainted with, as well as with
the inhabitants of the province of Q,uebec.
By order of the Congress.
President.
The petition of John Lane was read, the prayer whereof was grant-
ed, and Col. Lincoln appointed to draw up a resolve thereon.
Col. Lincoln drew up a resolve accordingly, which was accepted,
and is as follows, viz. : Resolved, that Henry Gardner, Esq., receiver
general, be, and he is hereby directed, to pay unto Capt. John Lane,
or his order, the sum of twelve pounds, lawful money, being two months
pay for a captain in the colony service, he the said Lane to be ac-
countable for that sum, to this, or some future Congress, or constitu-
tional assembly of this colony.
- Resolved, That Capt. John Lane proceed to raise a company of fifty
six effective men, including sergeants, to join the army at Cambridge,
agreeably to the order of the committee of safety : and, upon his rais-
ing said men, that he be entitled not only to a captain's commission,
but to the pay established for captains, to commence at the time he re-
ceived his orders from the said committee of safety.^
Ordered, That Deacon Fisher draw, in form of a resolve, the re-
port of the committee relative to Andrew Gilman.
Ordered, That Col. Lincoln draw up a resolve, empowering Mr.
Grannis to employ thirty men to protect the Elizabeth islands.
Mr. Fisher, agreeably to order, presented the following resolve,
which was accepted, and is as follows, viz. :
Resolved, That Lieut. Andrew Gilman be, and hereby is, ordered
and instructed to use his utmost influence to cultivate a friendly and
peaceable disposition in the Indians at St. Francois, and all other parts
adjoining, and to give intelligence of their temper and disposition, from
time to time, as he shall have opportunity, and as the importance of
affairs may require, and also of the Canadians at Quebec, and other
adjacent parts of Canada, so often as it may be in his power, for which
service he shall receive a proper reward.
Col. Lincoln, agreeably to order, presented the following resolve,
(1) Tho substance of tliis resolve is intcrtcd in tlic Journnl of Juno 24.
1775] THIRD PROVINCIAL CONGRESS. 306
which was accepted : Rtso/rrfl, that Capt. John Gramiis be, and he
hereby is empowered, iinnicdialcly, to engage tliirty good, al)le bodied,
effective men, to be paid by this colony, well provided with arms and
ammunition, and to cause tiiem to be provided with suitable provisif)ns,
to repair, witliout delay, to the Elizabetii islands, so called, in ['Dukes
county,] there to protect the stock, and to impress such a number of
boats, &c., [as] he shall want to transport the men to and from said
islands, as occasion may require, from time to time, until the further
order of this, or some future Congress, or constitutional assembly of
this colony.
Ordered, That commissions for the ollicers of the train be immedi-
ately sent to the committee of safety, and that they be directed to de-
liver them to such officers, to whom there is no exception, and that
Col. Porter be appointed to carry said commissions to the committee
of safety, with this order, immediately.
Ordered, That commissions be delivered to certain officers of Col.
Prescott's regiment, agreeably to the recommendation of the committee
of safety.
Aflernoon.
A draft of a letter to Governor Trumbull, was presented by the com-
mittee appointed to prepare one, and was read and accepted, and the
committee of supplies directed to forward it by express. ['']i
The committee appointed to consider what steps are proper to be
taken for the reception of General Washington, reported ; the report
was ordered to lie on the table.
A letter from the committee of Machias was read, respecting the
capture of a king's cutter, and committed to the committee which was
yesterday appointed to consider a letter on the same subject to Col.
Otis.2
a [tlio county of Duke's county.] b [and is as follows.]
(1) Tlio letter to Governor Trumbull is the same wliich has already been inserted in the Journal
of June 2, page 311.
(2) The letter of the committee of Machias contains the relation of a bold exploit. It was dated
June 14, 1775.
" To the Honorable Conoress of the Masgachitsetts Bay."
" GENTLEMEN :— We, the faithful and distressed inhabitants of Machias, beg leave, onco
more, in the most respectful manner, to approach your presence, and spread before you a just and
full representation of our very critical situation."
" On the 2d instant, Capt. Ichabod Jones arrived in this river with two sloops, accompanied with
one of the king's tenders. On the third instant, a paper was handed about for the people to sign, as
a prerequisite to their obtaining any provisions, of which wo were in great want. The contents of
this paper, required the signers to indulge Capt. Jones in carrying lumber to Boston, and to protect
him and his property, at all events : but, unhappily for him, if not for us, it soon expired, after pro-
ducing effects directly contrary in their nature to those intended. The next effort, in order to carry
those favorite points, was to call a meeting, which was accordingly done. On the Gth, the people
generally assembled at the place appointed, and seemed so averse to the measures proposed, that
Capt. Jones privately went to the tender, and caused her to move up so near the town thai her guns
396 THIRD PROVINCIAL CONGRESS. [June 25,
Mr, Holmes was appointed in the room of Col. Sawyer, on the com-
mittee appointed to bring in a resolve for making the notes of this col-
ony, a currency and tender for payment in all cases.
would reach the houses, and put springs upon her cables. The people, however, not knowing what
was done, and considering themselves nearly as prisoners of war, in tlje hands of the common ene-
my, which is our only plea for suffering Capt. Jones to carry any lumber to Boston, since your hon-
ors conceived it improper, passed a vote, that Capt. Jones might proceed in his business as usual
without molestation, that they would purchase the provision he brought into the place, and pay him
according to contract. After obtaining this vote, Capt. Jones immediately ordered his vessels to
the wharf, and distributed his provisions among those only, who voted in favor of his carrying lum-
ber to Boston. This gave such offence to the aggrieved party, that they determined to take Capt.
Jones, if possible, and put a final stop to big supplying the king's troops with any thing. Accord-
ingly, they secretly invited the people of Mispecka and Pleasant river to join them ; accordingly, a
number of them came, and, having joined our people, in the woods near the settlement, on the
llth, they all agreed to take Capt. Jones and Stephen Jones, Esq., in the place of worship, which
they attempted, but Capt. Jones made his escape into the woods, and does not yet appear ; Stephen
Jones, Esq., only was taken, and remains, as yet, under guard. The captain and lieutenant of the
tender, were also in the meeting-house, and fled to their vessel, hoisted their flag, and sent a message
on shore to this eftect : " that he had express orders to protect Capt. Jones ; that he was determined
to do his duty whilst he had life ; and that, if the people presumed to stop Capt. Jones's vessels, he
would burn the town." Upon this, a party of our men went directly to stripping the sloop that lay
at the wharf, and another party went off to take possession of the other sloop, which lay below,
and brought her up nigh a wharf, and anchored her in the stream. The tender did not fire, but
weighed her anchors as privately as possible, and, in the dusk of the evening, fell down and came
to, within musket shot of the sloop, which obliged our people to slip their cable, and run the sloop
aground. In the mean time, a considerable number of our people went down in boats and canoes,
lined the shore directly opposite to the tender, and, having demanded her to surrender to America,
received for answer, " fire and bo damned ;" they immediately fired in upon her, which she returned,
and a smart engagement ensued. The tender, at last, slipped her cable, and fell down to a small
sloop, commanded by Capt. Toby, and lashed herself to her for the remainder of the night. In the
morning of tlie 12th, they took Capt. Toby out of his vessel, for a pilot, and made all the sail they
could to get off, as the wind and tide favored ; but, having carried away her main boom, and meet-
ing with a sloop from the Bay of Fundy, they came to, robbed the sloop of her boom and gaff, took
almost all her provision, together with Mr. Robert Avery of Norwich, in Connecticut, and proceed-
ed on her voyage. Our people, seeing her go off" in the morning, determined to follow her. About
forty men, armed with guns, swords, axes, and pitch forks, went in Capt. Jones's sloop, under the
command of Capt. Jeremiah O'Brian : about twenty, armed in the same manner, and under the
command of Capt. Benjamin Foster, went in a small schooner. During the chase, our people built
them breastworks of pine boards, and any thing they could find in the vessels, that would screen
them from the enemy's fire. The tender, upon the first appearance of our people, cut her boats
from the stern, and made all the sail she could ; but, l)eing a very dull sailor, they soon came up
with her, and a most obstinate engagement ensued, both sides being determined to conquer or die :
but the tender was obliged to yield ; her captain was wounded in the breast with two balls, of whith
wounds he died next morning; poor IMr. Avery was killed, and one of the marines, and five wound-
ed. Only one of our men was killed, and six were wounded, one of whom is since dead of his
wounds. The battle was fought at the entrance of our harbor, and lasted for near the space of one
hour. We have in our possession, four double fortified three pounders, and fourteen swivels and a
number of small arms, which we took with the tender, besides a very small quantity of ammunition
&.C.. Thus we have given your honors as particular an account of this affair as possible. Wo now
apply to you for advice, and for n supply of ammunition and provisions, the latter of which we have
petitioned your lionors for already, which, if we could be fully supplied with, we doubt not but with
the blessing of heaven, we should be prepared to defend ourselves. We purpose to convey the pris-
oners toPownalborough jail, as soon as possible, there to await your orders."
" We are, with deference, your honors' most obedient, humble servants."
" By order of the committee, JA.MES LYON, Chairman.
GEORGE STILLMAN, Clerk."
■'Machias, June lith, 1775."
1775.] THIRD PROVINCIAL CONGRESS. 307
Mr. Davis was appointed, in tlie room of Capt. Slone, on the com-
mittee who were appointed to consider the petition iVoin Edward Parry.
Adjourned to Monday morning, eight o'clock.
Monday, June 2G, I775w
Ordered, That the committee appointed to consider the petition of
Mr. Edward Parry, and the report of Col. Thomp.son relative to his
conduct at Kennebec, be directed to consider his the said Thompson's
conduct at Falmouth, with respect to Capt. Mowat and Capt. Coulson,
and his laying Mr. Bernard under bonds.
Ordered, That the committee appointed to deliver out commissions,
be directed to draw a fair list of all those officers in the army, who
have been commissioned, which list shall be attested by the secretary,
and transmitted to General Ward.
A letter from the committee of safety, proposing that the Congress
should appoint two persons to superintend the supply of the armv, was
read, and committed to the committee who have under consideration
the regulation of the army.
Ordered, That Mr. Pickering, Mr. Nye and Mr. Fisher, be a com-
mittee to inquire into the state of the towns' stocks of ammunition in
the counties of Worcester and Hampshire, and that said committee
sit forthwith.
Ordered, That all the commissions for the officers of the train be
forthwith signed by the secretary, except John Wiley's, Samuel Grid-
ley's and John Callander's, and sent to the committee of safety.
Ordered, That no handles be made to spears, or other weapons of
war, or any tools for the use of the army, of chesnut, or any other
brittle wood.
Ordered, That the committee appointed to inquire into the grounds
of a report which has prevailed, that there has been treachery in some
of the officers of the army, be directed to proceed in their inquiries.
Ordered, That Col. Porter, Col. Gerrish and Capt. Thatcher, be a
committee to consider and report, to whom the arms obtained by a
committee of Congress, shall be delivered, and, when distributed, how
the persons receiving them shall be made accountable.
Resolved, That every person who has in possession any of the pre-
cepts lately issued by this Congress for calling a general assemblv, be
desired to dde the word " team," and in its stead insert the word
" cause," and that Mr. Edes be desired, in his next paper, to give no-
tice of the mistake made by printing the said word " warn" instead of
the word " cause."
398 THIRD PROVINCIAL CONGRESS. [June 26,
Resolved, That Major Fuller be desired, immediately, to go home,
to get the returns of the towns' stocks of ammunition.
The report of the committee appointed to consider what steps are
proper to be taken for the reception of General Washington, was again
considered, amended, and accepted, and is as follows, viz. :
Resolved, That Doct. Benjamin Church and Mr. Moses Gill,^ be a
committee to repair to Springfield, there to receive Generals Washing-
ton and Lee, with every mark of respect due to their exalted characters
and stations ; to provide proper escorts for them, from thence, to the
army before Boston, and the house provided for their reception at
Cambridge ; and to make suitable provision for them, in manner fol-
lowing, viz. : by a number of gentlemen of this colony from Spring-
field to Brookfield ; and by another company raised in that neighbor-
hood, from there to Worcester ; and by another company, there pro-
vided, from thence to Marlborough ; and from thence, by the troop of
horse in that place, to the army aforesaid : And [to make suitable
provision for] their company at the several stages on the road, and to
receive the bills of expenses at the several inns, where it may be con-
venient for them to stop for refreshment, to examine them, and make
report of the several sums expended at each of them, for that purpose,
that orders may be taken by the Congress for the payment of them :
and all innkeepers are hereby directed to make provision agreeably to
the requests made by the said committee : and that General Ward be
notified of the appointment of General Washington, as commander in
chief of the American forces, and of the expectation we have, of his
speedy arrival with Major General Lee, that he, with the generals of
the forces of the other colonies, may give such orders for their honora-
ble reception, as may accord with the rules and circumstances of the
army, and the respect due to their rank, without, however, any expense
of powder, and without taking the troops off from the necessary atten-
tion to their duty, at this crisis of our affairs.
Resolved, That three o'clock in the afternoon, be assigned for the
purpose of choosing three persons as a committee to repair to Spring-
field, to receive Generals Washington and Lee, agreeably to the fore-
going resolution.
Resolved, That the president's house in Cambridge, excepting one
room reserved by the president for his own use, be taken, cleared, pre-
pared, and furnished, for the reception of General Washington and
(1) In making up the journal of the proceedings of tho day, the names of the gentlemen elected
to receive tho generals of the army at Springfield were inserted in tlie report of the committee, al-
though they wore not elected fo discharge that duty until after tho report had been accepted.
1775.] THIRD PROVINCIAL CONGRESS. 399
General Lee, and that a committee be chosen immediately to carry
the same into execution.
The committee appointed to consider what preparations are proper
to be made for the reception of General Washington, reported the
["foregoing] resolve, which was accepted, and Capt. Partridge, Capt.
Thatcher, and Mr. Philips, Major Goodwin, and Mr. Caldwell, ap-
pointed a committee for the purpose therein mentioned.
Mr. Crane was appointed, in the room of Mr. Hall, on the commit-
tee chosen to consider Mr. Revere's account.
Resolved, That the committee appointed to prepare letters to the
several governments in New England for a reenforcement of men,
omit preparing one for the colony of New Hampshire.
Ordircd, That Doct. Taylor, Capt. Goodman, and Mr. Philips, be
a committee, to bring in a resolve for the purpose of preventino' all im-
position on the committee who have been heretofore directed to exam-
ine those persons who may be suspected as inimical to their country,
by any person whatever.
The committee to consider the letter from Machias reported : the
report was accepted, and is as follows, viz :
Resolved, That the thanks of this Congress be, and they are hereby
given to Capt. Jeremiah Obrian, and Capt. Benjamin Foster, and the
other brave men under their command, for their courage and good
conduct in taking one of the tenders belonging to our enemies, and
two sloops belonging to Ichabod Jones, and for preventing the minis-
terial troops being supplied with lumber ; and that the said tender,
sloops, their appurtenances and cargoes, remain in the hands of the
said Captains Obrian and Foster, and the men under their command,
for them to use and improve, as they shall think most for their and the
public advantage, until the further order of this, or some future Con-
gress, or house of representatives : and that the committee of safety for
the western parish in Pownalborough, be ordered to convey the prison-
ers taken by the said Obrian and Foster, from Pownalborough jail to
the committee of safety or correspondence, for the town of Brunswick ;
and the committee for Brunswick, to convey them to some committee
in the county of York, and so to be conveyed from county to county,
till they arrive at this Congress.
AfU'rnoon.
Ordered, That commissions be delivered to Ezra Badlam, captain
of the train of artillery, in the room of John Wiley ; John Sibley,
lieutenant ; Samuel Dagget, second lieutenant ; and John Blanchard,
a [following.]
400 THIRD PROVINCIAL CONGRESS. [June 26,
second lieutenant ; agreeably to the recommendation of the committee
of safety.
Ordered, That Col. Porter, Mr. Fisher, and Capt. Goodridge, be a
committee to consider a letter from General Ward, this day received.
Ordered, That Mr. Fisher, Doct. Whiting, and Major Brooks, be
a committee to receive, sort and count the votes for three gentlemen
to go to Springfield to meet Generals Washington and Lee.
The committee having attended that service, reported, that Doct.
Church, Mr. Gill, and the Hon. Major Hawley, were chosen.
The Hon. Major Hawley moved, that he might be excused from that
service, and, having offered his reasons, the question was put, and he
was excused accordingly.
Resolved, That the vote for choosing three persons to go to Spring-
field to meet Generals Washington and Lee, be reconsidered, so far as
that only two persons should be appointed to repair thither on that
service.
Resolved, That Capt. Mc Kinster, and Capt. Porter, who have each
of them raised a company at New York and Connecticut, be permit-
ted to join Col. Patterson's regiment, provided their companies are
complete and equipt : and that Major Goodwin bring in a resolve for
this purpose.
Resolved, That General Whitcomb's commission be dated the 2lst
day of June.
Resolved, That the president be desired to administer to General
Whitcomb the oath appointed to be administered to the general offi-
cers of the army.
The president delivered to General Whitcomb a commission, as a
major general of the Massachusetts army.
A petition from the committee of correspondence for the town of
Plymouth was read,i whereupon, Resolved, that the prayer thereof
(I) The committee of Plymouth earnestly remonstrated against the removal of the detachmcntB
of troops stationed along the coast to afford protection to tlie inhabitants. The petition follows :
To the Honorable the Provincial Congress, now sitting at Watertown :
The petition of the committee of correspondence for the town of Plymouth humbly sheweth
that your petitioners have this day received intelligence that a vote passed your house the
instant, determining to remove to bead quarters, that part of Col. Cotton's regiment, which has
been, by order of your most rospectal)lo body, stationed in this place, for the security and protec-
tion of the lives and property of this greatly exposed and much tlireatened town ; we, your potition-
•ers, have lately received undoubted intelligence by one of our townsmen, who has been taken by a
tender, and curried into Boston, that Admiral Graves made particular inquiry into the circumstan-
ces of this town, and said that wo were a rebellious people, and that, in consequence of our build-
ing a fort in opposition to tlio king's troops, it should not be long before ho would blow the town
about our ears. Your petitioners are very sensible, that, should the troops bo called away from
1775.] THIRD PROVINCIAL CONGRESS. 401
be granted, and tliat General Ward be directed to countermand liis
orders lor drawiiifj; oil" the forces stationed at IMymoutli.
On a motion made, Voted, tliat this last resolve be reconsidered, and
Ordered that the petition from Plymouth be committed to Capt. Par-
ker, Col. Lincoln, Col. Davis, Mr. Phillips, and Mr. Webster.
Ordered, That commissions be delivered to the officers of Col. Lit-
tle's regiment, agreeably to a list recommended by the committee of
safety.
A list of the officers and soldiers of Capt. Samuel Sprague's compa-
ny, was ])resented to the Congress : whereupon. Ordered, that com-
missions be delivered to the said officers, viz : Samuel Sprague, cap-
tain; Joseph Cheever, lieutenant; William Oliver, [ensign] ; and that
the company be joined to Col. Gerrish's regiment.
Mr. Goodwin, agreeably to order, reported the following resolve,
which was accepted, viz : Whereas, Capt. Mackinster of Spencer, and
Capt. Porter of Becket, have enlisted, each, a company of men, on the
establishment of this colony, and not joined as yet to any regiment,
Resolved, that the said companies be joined to Col. John Patterson's
regiment, now stationed at Cambridge, immediately ; provided said
companies are full, or near full, and that each man is equipt with a
good and sufficient firelock, and [that they] join their regiment as soon
as may be.
Ordered, That commissions be delivered to Capt. Reuben Dow,
and Lieut. John Goss, as officers, agreeably to the respective titles
affixed to their names in Col. Prescott's regiment.
The committee appointed to consider and report to whom the arms
procured by a committee of this Congress should be delivered, &c.,
reported the following resolve, which was read and accepted, viz :
this station, the town of Plymouth, as well as the adjacent villages, will lie open to the ravages of
our enemies, and that it will he no difficult matter for them to plunder and destroy us. The poor
of this town are already much distressed, hy reason of the stop put to the fishery, and can scarcely
subsist upon what they get out of the clam banks, and by fishing in boats, and should they be
driven from their huts into the barren country that surrounds us, they must, (for aught we see,)
perish with liunger, and for want of habitations, there not being houses within twenty miles suf-
ficient to receive tliem. These poor people consist principally of women and children, their hug-
bands and parents having enlisted themselves into the service of the colony. Your petitioners are
very far from desiring to create any unnecessary expense to the colony, but, at the same time,
think it necessary that said troops remain with us, and are of opinion, that, should they be with-
drawn, the town will be immediately evacuated, and, for the above reasons, youi petitioners as in
duty bound, &.c. For and by order of the committee of correspondence for the town of Plymouth.
ANDRKW CROSWELL, Clerk;
GAMALIEL BRADFORD, Jr.,
JOHN GRAY, by order."
"Tho committee of correspondence for the town of Duxbury and Kingston which lie on Plymouth
Boy, join in the general prayer of the above petition."
51
402 THIRD PROVINCIAL CONGRESS. [June 26,
Whereas, this Congress has ordered a number of fire arms to be fur-
nished from several towns and districts in this colony, to be forwarded
to the army, to supply those who are destitute of arms ; but no provi-
sion is made for delivering them out, and taking proper receipts for
the same, therefore. Resolved, that all the small arms that are, or may
be procured by the above order, be delivered to Major Nathaniel Bar-
ber, military storekeeper at Cambridge ; he to give his receipt for the
same, to the person from whom he receives them ; that the same be
delivered out to such officers as shall produce orders therefor from the
Hon. General Ward, they giving receipts for the same to the said Ma-
jor Barber, to be returned in good order, unless lost in the service of
the colony. And every soldier who shall receive any such fire arms,
shall give his receipt for the same to the officer from whom he shall
receive it, to be returned as aforesaid ; and in case the same shall not
be returned, at the close of the campaign, or sooner, the value of the
said fire arm shall be deducted out of the wages of the person receiv-
ing the same ; and also that the sum of six shillings shall be deducted
out of the wages of each soldier, who shall receive such fire arm, for
the use of the same, in case he return it again in good order.
The committee on the petition of Edward Parry, &c., reported.
The report was read, amended, and ["accepted].^
The committee on the petition from Plymouth reported : the report
was read but not accepted.
Ordtred, That the Hon. Col. Gerrish, Capt. Bragdon, Col. Thomp-
son, Col. Freeman, and Mr. Lothrop, be a committee to consider what
measures are proper to be taken for the defence and protection of the
sea coasts.
Ordered, That the committee last chosen, consider several petitions
which were committed to the committee sometime since appointed to
consider the state of the sea coasts, and that said committee first consi-
der the case of the town of Plymouth, as represented in the petition
from that town.
The committee appointed to consider the conduct of Col. Thomp-
son, at Falmouth, with respect to Capt. Mowat, reported. The report
was ordered to subside. [It was as follows :]
[The committee ajjpointed to consider the conduct of Colonel
Thompson at Falmouth with respect to Capt. Mowatt, &c., and his
laying Mr. Bernard under bonds, are of opinion, that said Thompson's
a [accepted and is ns follows.]
(I) The report referred to in the text is neither entered on the journal, nor preserved on the
files of Congress.
1775.] THIRD PROVINCIAL CONGRESS. 403
conduct was friendly to his country, and the cause of liberty: and that
said Barnard's conduct appears to have been inimical to bolli.]
Adjourned to Tuesday morning 8 o'clock.
Tuesday, June 27, 1775.
A letter from the committee of Albany was read, whereupon Order-
ed, that Doct. Whiting, Mr. Greenleaf, and Mr. Hopkins, be a com-
mittee to consider the same and prepare an answer thereto. ^
Resolved, That four persons be added to the committee of supplies,
and that 11 o'clock this forenoon, be assigned for the choice of them.
The committee appointed yesterday to consider General Ward's
letter, reported a resolve,- which was accepted, and ordered to be
printed in hand bills, and dispersed throughout the colony, and there-
upon Ordered, that Capt. Goodridge, Mr. Partridge, and Mr. Caldwell,
be a committee for that purpose.
A letter from Isaac Stone relative to Francis More, a baker, was
read and ordered to be transmitted to the committee of supplies.^
Ordered, that the resolve just now past, in consequence of General
Ward's letter be reconsidered, and that it be recommitted, together
with the resolve passed relative to absconding soldiers, to Mr Part-
ridge, Mr. Hopkins and Capt. Goodrich.
Ordered, That Mr. Thatcher be appointed to apply to the brother
(1) The letter from the committee of Albany follows :
" ALBANY, Committee Chamber, 23d June, 1775.
«' BRETHREN',—
We have received a vague and uncertain account from your colony, of an engagement, which
your troops have had with the enemies of our country, at or near Cliarlestown. As we feel our-
selves deeply interested in every event affecting the general weal of America, it gives us great
pleasure, that, though with the loss of many hrave men, you have been able, if our information be
true, to drive, with considerable loss, the tools of tyranny and oppression back to their asylum.
Strongly impressed with the warmest disposition to cultivate harmony with you, and, if neces-
sary, to afford you all the assistance in our |)ower, we have, therefore, sent you this by Mr.
Price, in order to receive from you a circumstantial detail of the late engagement and its conse-
quences. May that God, who has so often signally espoused our cause in the arduous struggle for
liberty and humanity, still continue to you his gracious guidance and protection,"
" We expect daily an attack upon Ticonderoga from Canada."
" We are at a loss to know what must be done with the donations collected in this city for the
poor of Boston, and beg to be informed by you, as the chief of the contributions arc in grain, whe-
ther we shall dispose of it here, and convert it into cash, or otherwise wait your directions. We
are, brethren, your very humble servants.
By order of the committee, SAMLTEL STRLNGER, Chairman."
To the Provincial Confrresa of the Colony of Massachusetts Bay, if sitting ;
ortherwise to the Committee of War at Cambridge or elsewhere.
(2) The resolve relating to absconding soldiers is inserted in the Journal of June 28 following,
(3) The letter of Isaac Stone charges one of the bakers of the army with using the flour furnish-
ed fiom the stores of the province for the supply of his own customers.
404 THIRD PROVINCIAL CONGRESS. [June 27,
of our late president for such papers belonging to this Congress, as he
may have in his possession.
Ordered, That Doct. Taylor, Col. Coffin, and Capt, Webster, be a
committee to consider a letter from General Thomas respecting a pe-
tition for liberty to permit provisions to be carried to those who were
taken prisoners by Gage's troops, on the 17th instant, now in Boston.
A number of letters were presented to the Congress by Mr. Palfrey,
lately arrived from England, some of which were read, and then the
whole were committed to Doct. Taylor, Mr. Partridge and Capt.
Brown. 1
Ordered, That Mr. Bigelow be appointed to go to Cambridge, to
inquire if there are any blank commissions at the committee of safety's
room.
Ordered, That Mr. Webster, Mr. Partridge, and Capt. Goodman,
be a committee to receive and sort the votes for four gentlemen to be
added to the committee of supplies.
The committee having attended that service, reported, that Col.
James Prescott, Col. Elisha Porter, Major Brooks, and Capt. Vose,
were chosen.
Major Brooks, having requested that he might be excused, was ex-
cused, and Col. Barrett was chosen in his room.
Ordered, That the secretary make out a proper certificate of the
choice of the abovenamed four gentlemen on the committee of sup-
plies.
The committee on the account of Mr. Paul Revere reported : the
report was recommitted.
A letter from General Ward was read, nominating Col. William
Henshaw, to be an adjutant general in the Massachusetts army, where-
upon, Ordered, that a commission be made out for him accordingly.
Ordered, That the Hon Major Hawley, Mr. Pickering, and Col.
Porter, be a committee, to prepare letters to the Continental Congress,
requesting their aid in furnishing us with gunpowder : and also to
prepare another letter to Governor Trumbull, requesting him to take
some steps for collecting powder from the several towns in the colony
of Connecticut, to be sent to head quarters at Cambridge, as this colo-
ny is now doing.
A letter from General Thomas was read, nominating Mr. Samuel
Brewer, to be an adjutant general in the Massachusetts army : where-
upon Ordered, that a commission be made out for him accordingly.
(1) The letters from England, so far as tho contents of nil can be inferred from the few preserved,
gave information of tlio embarkation of regimcnta of troops, and the preparations of the administra-
tion to reduce the colonies to subjection.
1775.] TlUllD PROVINCIAL CONGRESS. 405
Rrso/vrd, Tliat Mr. Ezekicl Chcvcr be appointed store keeper of
the ordnance in tlic room of Major Barber, who lias declined accept-
ance of that trust, and that 5 o'clock P. M. be assigned for consider-
inir tiie expediency of augmenting the pay of the store keeper of the
ordnance.
Ordered, That Capt. Holmes, Capt. Brown, and Capt. Batchelder
be a coniniittce to examine Ensign Robert Campbell, lately arrived
from England, and now a prisoner in this town, and to report what is
proper to be done with him.
Afternoon.
Ordered, That Capt. Farley, Capt. Dwight, and Mr. Webster, be a
committee to prepare an address to the several towns in the colony,
who may be applied to, to furnish the army with powder.
Resolved, That Mr. Edes be desired to print 300 blank commissions,
in the form lately made use of for the officers of the army.
A petition from Jonathan Hicks, and Josiah Jones, prisoners in
Concord jail, was read, and ordered to lie on the table. ^
A letter from S. L. was read, and ordered to lie on the table.^
A petition from the committees of the several townships of Golds-
borough, Narragaugus and Number Four, was read, and committed to
Capt. Parker, Col. Smith and Capt. Ellis, who are directed to consi-
der the propriety of supplying the inhabitants of Machias with some
three pounders, and some swivel balls.^
(1) Those gentlemen, captured in a sloop bound to Nova Scotia and ordered to be put in confine-
ment, by a resolve of Congress, June 10, (page 315,) in theii meniorial, admit, that they liad enter-
tained opinions at variance with those of their countrymen : while they refused to assent to the
justice of every ministerial claim, they had deemed it inexpedient und unsafe to bear arms against
the power of Great Britain. " We declare" they say "before God and man, with perfect sin-
cerity, thnt wo do, most affectionately wish prosperity to our native land, and to the inhabitants
in general of these American colonies ; and we are ready, at any time, and at all times, so far as
our abilities extend, to do any tiling within the limits of justice, that appears to us subservient to
this important end." Protesting tliat it was with the view to avoid danger, and not from want of
regard to the cause of tlie country, that they had taken up their residence in Boston, they earnestly
entreat that they may be liberated from imprisonment, on giving obligations to observe a patriotic
course of conduct.
(2) A letter, subscribed with the initials S. L., strongly urges the expediency of tittingout armed
vessels without delay. The writer apprehended, that the squadron under Admiral Graves, with
the small ships of war and tenders, might interrupt the vessels bringing provisions to Massachu-
Betts, and reduce the army and inhabitants to a state of famine. He suggests that a ship, then
ready to launch at Danvers, of about 300 tons burden, might be commissioned, and many ships,
lying idle at the wharves of the sea coast, might be usefully employed in bringing grain from the
southern colonies, transporting powder, cannon, and arms, from !<pain or France, and collecting
saltpetre from ports where that article could be purchased.
(3) AH the eastern towns suft'ered severely from scarcity of food and deficiency of arms and
ammunition. Among the constant applications for relief was that mentioned in the text. In a
letter from Col. Enoch Freeman dated at Falmouth, he states : " A man from Deer Island, near
406 THIRD PROVINCIAL CONGRESS. [June 27,
Ordered, That Capt. Shillaber be directed to bring in a resolve for
the p;'rpose of assuring the officers and soldiers, that, notwithstanding
the date of the officers' commissions, the pay of both officers and sol-
diers shall commence at the time of their enlistment.
Ordered, Tliat commissions be made out to the subaltern officers
of Capt. Edward Crafts' company in the train, agreeably to the recom-
mendation of the committee of safety.
A letter from Elisha Phelps was read, and ordered to lie on the
table.i
The letter from Mr. Isaac Stone which was this day transmitted to
the committee of supplies, was, by that committee, returned, and again
read, and thereupon Ordered, that Major Fuller be directed to notify
the commissary general to attend this Congress on the subject thereof.
The committee appointed to consider in what way the sea coasts
should be protected, reported, whereupon Ordered, that the committee
of supplies, and all committees of the house now out, be directed im-
mediately to give attendance.
Ordered, That the committee appointed to provide hospitals for the
army, be directed to provide another hospital, to be appropriated solely
for such of the army as may be taken with the small pox, and to con-
sider what measures can be taken to prevent the spreading of that
distemper, and that Doct. Rand, and Doct. Foster, be added to the
committee.
Resolved, That the resolve passed yesterday, directing how the fire
arms should be distributed, be reconsidered. The same being amend-
ed, was again accepted and is as follows, viz : Whereas, this Congress
has ordered a number of fire arms to be furnished from several towns
and districts in this colony, to be forwarded to the army, to supply
those who are destitute of arms, but no provision is made for delivering
them out, and taking proper receipts for the same, therefore. Resolved,
that all the small arms that are, or may be procured by the above
order, be delivered to the committee of safety at Cambridge ; they
to give their receipt for the same, to the person from whom they re-
ceive them : that the same be delivered out to such officers, as shall
Penobscot, was here tliis nrtornoon, and gives a melancholy account ofthe 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 sonic vessels of superior
force to the tenders should be provided to bring bread."
(1) Cnpt. Phelps was sent to Connecticut for the purpose of procuring aid in transporting cannon
from Tyconderoga to the camp near Boston. Restated that Gov. Trumbull declined authorizing
the removal ofthe guns from the northern fortress, without the direction ofthe Continental Con_
grcss.
177.3] THIRD PROVINCIAL CONGRESS. 107
produce orders tliercfor, from tlie Honorable General Ward, tliey giv-
ing receipts for the same, to the said cotiimittce of safety, to be returned
in good order, uidess lost in the service of the colony. And every
soldier who shall receive any such fire arm, shall give his rcceij)t for
the same, to the ollicer from whom ho shall receive it, to be returned
as aforesaid ; and the ofliccr shall return the said receipts to the com-
mittee of safety ; and in case the same shall not be returned, at the
close of the campaign, or sooner, the value of the said fire arm, shall
be deducted out of the wages of the person receiving the same; and
that the committee of safety shall appraise all such arms, as have not
already been appraised, and take an account of the whole.
Ordered, That Col. William Ilenshaw, an adjutant genorfil, take the
oath appointed to be taken by the officers and soldiers of the Massa-
chusetts army, and that a commission as adjutant general be delivered
to him.
The committee appointed to examine Ensign Robert Campbell,
reported the following resolve, which was accepted. The committee
appointed to take into consideration the case of a prisoner, bound to
Boston to join the army under the command of General Gage, have ex-
amined said prisoner, and his account of himself is, that his name is
Robert Campbell, about seventeen years old, son of Lieut. Col. Al-
exander Campbell, who is now lieutenant governor of Fort George, in
Inverness, and is of one of the first families in Scotland. Said Robert
Campbell further says, he was born in the army, and now has a recom-
mendation for an ensign's commission in the 3oth regiment.
Resolved, That Robert Campbell be sent immediately to the care
of the selectmen of Concord, to be by them put under keepers, or into
prison, and provided for, as their prudence shall direct, until the fur-
ther order of this Congress, or some future house of representatives,
and that he be delivered to Col. Barrett, to be conveyed to said select-
men of Concord.
An account of Simeon Fish, and John Toby, of the expenses of
bringing Ensign Robert Campbell from Falmouth to this Congress,
was read, and committed to the committee, who were appointed lO
examine said Campbell.
The committee appointed to inquire into the state of the .several
towns stocks in the counties of Hampshire and Worcester, reported a
schedule, containing an account of the stocks of several towns in said
counties, which was committed to Mr. Singletary, Mr. Nye, and Mr
Cut, who were directed to consider what quantity should be drawn
from each town, for the use of the army.
408 THIRD PROVINCIAL CONGRESS. [June 28,
The committee appointed to consider the letter of General Thomas,
relative to the request of a number of our wounded friends, in captivity
in Boston, reported : the report was accepted, and a copy of it ordered
to be sent to General Thomas, and is as follows, viz : the committee
appointed to consider the request of a number of our wounded friends,
now in captivity in Boston, beg leave to report, that General Thomas
be requested moderately to supply said prisoners with fresh meat, in
case he can convey it to them, and them only.
The report of the committee appointed to consider some means for
protecting the sea coasts, was again read and considered, and after
debate, the further consideration of it was put off till to-morrow
morning.
Adjourned to to-morrow morning 8 o'clock.
Wednesday, June 28, 1775.
The committee appointed to prepare an answer to the letter from
Albany, reported.
Ordered, That Col. Lincoln bring in a resolve, making five of the
committee of supplies to be a quorum, or in defect of five, that any
three may be a quorum, provided the chairman be one of the three.
[Col. Lincoln reported a resolve, which was read, accepted, and is
as follows, viz :]
Whereas, The public interest often makes it necessary, that a very
considerable number of the committee of supplies should be absent on
business of the colony, and as no orders can be paid by the receiver
general, but such as are signed by the said committee, or the major
part of them ; by reason whereof, the public service may be obstructed,
and greatly delayed ; for prevention of which, it is Resolved, That
three of said committee of supplies, the chairman, David Cheever, Esq.
being always one of the three, shall, when there are less than five present,
be considered as a quorum ; and all orders, bargains, and contracts, by
them made, shall be held good, to all intents and purposes, as fully as
though the whole of said committee were present, and assenting to
such orders, bargains, and contracts. And the receiver general of
this colony be, and is hereby directed to govern himself accordingly.
The letter prepared to be sent to the committee of Albany, was
accepted, and is as follows :
Gentlemen ; This Congress have received your very obliging letter,
by Mr. Price, of the 23d ultimo, and they cheerfully embrace the op-
portunity to forward to you by the same hand, as particular an account
of the late engagement with the enemies of America, as we, in the
1775.] THIRD PROVINCIAL COiNGRESS. 409
present hurry of our public affairs, are able to do. On the night of
the Itith of June instant, a body of our troops took possession of a
hill in Charlestown, where they began some entrenchments : but as
soon as the morning light appeared, they were fired upon by some of
the ships in Boston harbor, and also from a battery on Copp's hill,
which is on Boston side. Soon after, several ships and floating batte-
ries drew up, as near as possible on each side [of] Charlestown neck,
in order, with their cannon, to annoy our people, and prevent any
recruits going from our main body to their relief About two o'clock,
P. M., a large body of regular troops, consisting of several thousands,
commanded by Lord Howe, suddenly crossed Charles river, and land-
ed near the hill on which our people were posted. They immediately
marched up, in order to force our infant entrenchments : but our peo-
ple gave them so warm a reception, that they thought best to retreat;
but soon renewed their attempts ; but were repulsed the second time
with great slaughter ; but, on their third attempt, our people, being
almost destitute of ammunition, as the enemies' constant fire from their
ships and floating batteries had prevented any supplies from our main
army, were obliged to retreat, with the loss of about 50 men killed,
and 200 wounded, as near as has yet been ascertained, and about 30
taken prisoners, many of whom were wounded, and some are since
dead of their wounds. The loss on the part of our enemies is much
greater ; some persons who were on the field of battle soon after the
fight, affirm they saw 800 men dead on the ground, and that there
were as many more wounded ; the lowest account we have had, is,
1000 killed and wounded, among whom are 84 commissioned officers.
On the same day, the town of Charlestown, consisting of near 500
houses and other buildings, was, by those bloody incendiaries, set on
fire and consumed to ashes. We cannot, however, but assure you,
gentlemen, that, notwithstanding our present distressed situation, we
feel a peculiar satisfaction in finding our patriotic brethren of the city
and county of Albany, so cordially interesting themselves in our par-
ticular welfare, and so kindly offering us their assistance, as well as
manifesting their zeal for the rights and liberties of America in gene-
ral. It is our ardent desire to cultivate harmony and friendship with
all our neighboring brethren, and, we hope, you will not fail to con-
tinue your favors, and we assure you, that we shall always take pleas-
ure in conveying to you any intelligence that shall afford satisfaction.
As to the benevolent donations you mention, which are collected for
our distressed brethren, as the transporting the article you make men-
tion of, is almost impracticable, [we] think it had better be exchanged
3-2
410 THIRD PROVINCIAL CONGRESS. [June 28,
for cash, or some necessary specie, which may be more easily trans-
ported. We are sorry to hear there is any prospect of an attack upon
Ticonderoga, &c., but, we trust, those important fortresses are suffi-
ciently garrisoned, and doubt not, but our brave countrymen stationed
there, will be able to repulse any force which can be sent against them
from Canada, Finally, brethren, we ardently wish, that the great Su-
preme Being, who governs all things, may so direct all our military
operations, that they may speedily issue in the full restoration and
peaceable possession of the natural and constitutional rights and liber-
ties of every American.
P. S. Some make the number of our killed and missing to be near
a hundred.
The committee on the account of Messrs. Fish and Toby, reported :
the report was accepted, and is as follows, viz. : Resolved, that Sim-
eon Fish and John Toby be allowed and paid, out of the public treas-
ury of this colony, six pounds, seven shillings, for their time and ex-
penses in bringing Robert Campbell, a prisoner, from Falmouth to
this Congress, and also for their time and expenses back to Falmouth
again ; and the receiver general is hereby directed to pay the said sum
of six pounds, seven shillings, to the said Fish and Toby, in full dis-
charge of their expenses as aforesaid.
The committee who were appointed to consider the resolves of this
Congress relative to absconding soldiers, reported : the report was re-
committed.
Mr. Pigeon was introduced on the subject of Capt. Stone's letter
respecting Mr. More.
Ordered, That Deacon Fisher, Capt. Batchelder and Capt. Stone of
Framingham, be a committee, to join with Mr. Pigeon in an inquiry
into the conduct of said More, and report to this Congress.
Ordered, That Capt. Batchelder, Col. Coffin and Capt. Goodman,
be a committee to bring in a resolve for the purpose of saving provis-
ions in the army.
A list of persons recommended as deputy commissaries was read,
and committed to Mr. Greenleaf, Capt. Carpenter and Mr. Johnson.
The committee appointed to bring in a resolve for giving a currency
to the notes or bills of credit of this colony, reported : the report was
recommitted for the purpose of introducing the large notes issued by
this colony.
Ordered, That commissions be delivered to such officers of Col.
Gerrish's regiment as are not yet commissioned.
1775.] THIRD PROVINCIAL CONGRESS. Ill
A petition of John Obrian \rTis read, and coininitted to Major Per-
ly, Major Fuller of Middleton, and Mr. Cutt.'
The report of the coniniittee appointed to consider some measures
for defending the sea coasts was again taken into consideration,
amended and accepted, and Col. Freeman, Col. Gerrish and Capt.
Carpenter, were appointed to fix the pay of the oflicers in proportion
to that of the soldiers agreeably to said report.
The report of the conunittee respecting absconding soldiers, was
put off to three o'clock, P. M.
The committee appointed to consider some method of saving pro-
visions in the army, reported : the report was accepted, and is as fol-
lows : The committee appointed to consider of the most effectual
means to prevent any waste of provision in the army, beg leave to re-
port by way of resolve.
Resolved, That the commissary general be, and he hereby is direct-
ed, to purchase all the provisions that any of the soldiers may have to
spare of their allowance, for the use of our army, and pay a reason-
able price for such provision.
Afternoon.
The following gentlemen were appointed a committee to station the
troops in the county of Essex, agreeably to the resolve of Congress,
which passed in the forenoon, viz. :
Lt/7in — Mr. Edward Johnson. Manchester — Mr. Andrew Wood-
bury. Gloucester — Col. Coffin. Salem — Mr. Pickering. Ipswich —
Col. Farley. Newhuryport — Capt. Greenleaf Marhlehead — Elbridge
Gerry, Esq. Beverly — Capt. Batchelder. Newhury — Col. Gerrish.
Salisbury — Capt. Nathaniel Currier.
And the following gentlemen foi the county of York, viz. :
York — Capt. Bragdon. Berwick — Major Goodwin. Arundel —
Deacon Hovey. Kiitcry — Edward Cutt, Esq. Wells — Col. Saw-
yer. Biddeford — James Sullivan, Esq.
The following gentlemen were likewise appointed, agreeably to said
resolve, to give out enlisting orders, viz. :
For the County of Essex — Mr. Hopkins, Mr. Greenleaf, and Col.
Farley. For the County of Plymouth — Hon. Col. Warren, Mr. Loth-
rop, Capt. Partridge. For the County of Barnstable — Col. Free-
man, Col. Otis, Daniel Davis, Esq. For the County of Dukes —
(1) The petitioner rcpresenteii that the iiihahitants of Muchias wore one thousand souls, wlio
had not provisions, nor any method to procure supplies, in the had condition of the times. The pro-
vision made for llieir support by Congress, filled them with gratitude: but the quantity furnished
was so small, that without further aid they could not subsist, and must be obliged to abandon their
habitations.
AV2 THIRD PROVINCIAL CONGRESS. [June 28,
Mr. Nye. For the County of Bristol— Mr. Durfee, Hon. Mr.
Spooner, Capt. Holmes. JFor the County of York — Col. Sawyer,
Edward Cult, Est]., Capt. Bragdoii. For the County of Cumberland
— Hon. Col. Freeman, Col. Thompson, Mr. Mitchell. For the County
of Lincoln — Mr. D. Sewall, Mr. Langdon, Mr. E. Witcher.
Ordered, That Col. Freeman, Mr. Langdon and Mr. Greenlcaf, be
a committee to get two hundred of the resolves for stationing compa-
nies on the sea coast, printed.
The resolves being completed, are as follow, viz. : The commit-
tee appointed to take into consideration and report some way of de-
fending and supporting the towns upon the sea coast in this colony,
having considered of the same, report the following resolves, viz. :
Resolved, That there be immediately raised in the county of Essex,
ten companies, to consist of fifty men each, officers included, to be sta-
tioned upon the sea coast in that county, in such manner and propor-
tion as shall be agreed upon by a joint committee, consisting of one
member to be appointed by this Congress from each of the towns of
Lynn, Manchester, Gloucester, Marblehead, Salem, Beverly, Ipswich,
Newbury, Newburyport, and Salisbury, in said county, and to be under
the direction of the committees of correspondence of each town where
they may be stationed. Also, that there be raised in the counties of
Plymouth and Barnstable, nine companies, each to consist of the num-
ber of fifty men, four of which companies to be stationed in the coun-
ty of Plymouth, according to the direction of the field officers of the
first regiment of the county of Plymouth, under whose direction they
shall be considered ; the other five companies to be stationed in the
county of Barnstable, in such manner as the field officers of the two
regiments there shall agree, and to be under their directions : and that
the county of Barnstable shall have the liberty of raising eight of those
companies; likewise, that there be raised in the county of Bristol, in-
cluding the towns of Wareham and Rochester, two companies, consist-
ing of fifty men each, to be stationed, one company in Dartmouth, and
the other company in Wareham and Rochester equally, and to be un-
der the direction of the committees of correspondence of the respec-
tive towns. Also, that there be raised in the county of York, four com-
panies, consisting of fifty men each, to be stationed in that county, ac-
cording to the agreement of a joint committee consisting of one mem-
ber from each of the towns upon the sea coast in that county, to be
chosen for that purpose ; wlien stationed, to be under the direction of
the field officers in that county. Also, that there be raised in the coun-
ty of Cumberland, five companies, consisting of fifty men each, to be
1775] TIIfRD PROVINCIAL CONGRESS. 413
stationed as shall I)0 affrecd upon by a joint committee appointed by
each town upon the sea coast, viz. : two members to be chosen by tlie
town of Falmoutii and Cape Elizabeth, one by Scarborough, one by
North Yarmouth, one by Brunswick, and one by Ilarpswell, and after
the division and station is ordered, to be under the direction of the
committees of the respective towns where they shall be stationed. And
also, that there be raised in the county of Lincoln, three companies,
consisting of fifty men each, to be stationed by a committee consisting
of members to be chosen, one by each town upon the sea coast in said
county, as they shall agree, and then to be under the direction of the
committees of correspondence of the respective towns and plantations
where they shall be stationed, and of the assessors where no such com-
mittees are appointed. Also, Resolved, that a committee of three per-
sons be appointed in each county, to give out enlisting orders in their
respective counties, where such men are to be raised, and to muster
them ; and also, that Col. Phinney be directed to march the whole of
his regiment, who are equipt with arms, to the camp at Cambridge, and
those who are not equipt, to dismiss. Likewise, furtlier Resolved, that
the thirty men ordered to be raised from the town of Falmouth, and sta-
tioned on the Elizabeth Islands, be augmented to fifty, officers includ-
ed, and under the same wages and subsistence, as is hereafter provid-
ed, and to remain there for protection of the stocks on those islands;
and that each private soldier of the several companies herein mention-
ed, shall be entitled to the sum of §^30 per month, and subsistence as
the other companies raised for the colony service, till the further order
of this, or some future Congress or House of Representatives ; and
that the pay of the oflicers be reduced in the same proportion as the
pay of the soldiers, viz. : captains' pay, £S 8s. ; 1st lieutenant, £2 125. ;
2d lieutenant, £'^ 3s. ; sergeants, ^'2 4s. ; corporals, fifers, and drum-
mers, £2.
Resolved, That each soldier who shall enlist, shall furnish himself
with a good and sufficient firelock, and that no man shall be mustered
as a soldier who is not so furnished, accordingly.
Also, Resolved, That each town where soldiers shall be stationed as
above, shall furnish them with ammunition, out of their stocks, for
which they shall be paid out of the public treasury of this colony.
A petition of Robert Shillaber [for leave to export fish,] was read,
and committed to Capt. Batchelder, Capt Goodman, and Major Fuller,
of Middleborough.
Ordered, That Deacon Bayley, Major Goodwin, Mr. Batchelder,
Col. Coffin, and Col. Gerrish, be a committee to consider what method
414 THIRD PROVINCIAL CONGRESS. [June 28,
would be most expedient, by which to supply the soldiers to be raised
for the defence of the sea coast, with provisions.
Ordered, That Doct. Taylor, Capt. Stearns, and Mr. Starkweather,
be a committee to consider the petition of several officers in Col. Pres-
cott's. Col. Fry's, and Col. Bridge's regiments.^
The report of the committee relative to absconding soldiers, was
again considered, and accepted, and is as follows, viz. :
Whereas, in consequence of ["^an] application made to the Provin-
cial Congress, sitting in this town in May last, by the officers of the
army, that some effectual method should be taken for the speedy return
of absconding soldiers, or such as should tarry beyond the time limited
by furlough, it was then Resolved, that it should be, and accordingly was
recommended to the committees of correspondence in the several towns
and districts in this colony, or to the selectmen, where no such com-
mittees were appointed, that they should take effectual care, that
such absconding or delinquent soldiers should be sent back immediate-
ly to their respective regiments ; yet it appears to this Congress, that
the above resolution has not, in every instance, had the desired effect;
therefore. Resolved, that it be further recommended to the several com-
mittees of correspondence in each town and district in this colony, or
to the selectmen, where no such committees are appointed, that they
take the most speedy and effectual care, that said resolve be strictly
adhered to and punctually executed ; and it is also recommended to
the good people in the several towns and districts aforesaid, to give
their utmost aid and assistance to said selectmen or committees in exe-
cutino- said resolve, as the existence of the army very much depends
thereon.
And it is further Resolved, that all necessary expenses, which may
accrue by returning said absconding or delinquent soldiers to their re-
spective regiments, be paid, and deducted out of the wages of said
soldiers.
Ordered, [That the foregoing resolves] be printed in the Cambridge,
Watertown, and Worcester papers.
The committee appointed to consider what preparations are neces-
sary to be made relative to making paper bills of credit, reported.
The report was ordered to lie till there is a fuller house.
Ordered, That Col. Lincoln, Major Fuller, of Newton, Mr. Single-
tary, Mr. Durfee, and Mr. Dexter, be a committee to consider what
a [our]
(1) These petitions related to tlie orgnnir.iition of" the rpgiincnls and Iho rank ot'the officers.
1775.] THIRD PROVINCIAL CONGRESS. 416
method is best to be taken for providing each of the .soldiers with a
coat.
The form of a warrant for tlic surgeons was read and accepted, and
is as follows, viz. :
The Congress of the Massachusetts Bay, to A. B. Greeting.
Being informed of your skill in surgery, and reposing especial trust
and confidence in your ability and good conduct, we do, by these pre-
sents, constitute and appoint you the said A. B., to be surgeon of the
regiment of foot, whereof is colonel, raised by the Congress
aforesaid, for the defence of said colony. You are, therefore, carefully
and diligently to discharge the duty of a surgeon to the said regiment,
in all things appertaining thereunto, observing such orders and instruc-
tions as you shall, from time to time, receive from the colonel of said
regiment, according to military rules and discipline established by said
Congress, or any your superior officers, for which this shall be your
sufficient warrant.
By order of the Congress,
President.
Dated at Watertown.
Ordered, That the committee appointed to make out commissions
for the officers of the army, be directed to make out warrants for the
surgeons agreeably to the above form, as soon as they have been exam-
ined and appointed.
Ordered, That Deacon Fisher, Col. Thompson, and Mr. Wiswall,
be a committee to bring in a resolve for the purpose of preventing the
unnecessary ["expenditure] of gunpowder.
The committee appointed to consider the petition of Mr. Obrian, re-
ported verbally ; that the petitioner be served with a copy of the re-
port of this Congress on the petition of a number of the inhabitants of
Machias. The report was accepted, and the petitioner had leave to
withdraw his petition.
The report of the committee relative to making the notes and bills
of credit of this and the other colonies, a tender, being amended, was
accepted, and ordered to be authenticated and printed in the Cam-
bridge, Watertown, and Worcester papers, and is as follows : Where-
as, a former Congress of this colony, ordered their receiver general to
issue notes and bills upon the credit of this colony, for the payment
a [expense]
416 THIRD PROVINCIAL CONGRESS. [June 28,
and supply of their army, and other necessary expenses of this colony;
and whereas, divers others of the sister colonies have issued notes or
bills, for the payment of their respective forces ; and it is necessary,
that the notes and bills of this and the sister colonies should have free
currency ; therefore, Resolved, that the notes and bills of the colony of
Rhode Island, at and after the rate of six shillings and nine pence an
ounce for silver, and the bills and notes of this and all the other colo-
nies, excepting Nova Scotia and Canada, at and after the rate of six
shillings and eight pence an ounce for silver, shall be taken and re-
ceived, and accounted a good and sufficient tender for the payment of
all debts, and the damages that may arise upon the non-performance of
any promises, and also be received into the public treasury of this col-
ony, without any discount or allowance whatever. And if any person
whatever, shall refuse to take any of the notes or bills of the colonies
aforementioned, at the rates before expressed, for any debt, or in satis-
faction for the damages sustained by reason of the non-performaucc of
any promise, or shall ask, demand, or receive, any discount, gratuity,
or premium, for receiving any of the bills or notes aforementioned, he
or she so offending, shall be deemed an enemy to the country. And
the several committees of correspondence, inspection, and safety in
their respective towns, are required to return the names of all persons
who shall contravene this resolve, to this or some future Congress, or
House of Representatives, that they may take order thereon as to them
shall seem meet.
The resolve relative to the commencement of the pay of the officers
and soldiers, was considered, and recommitted, and Mr. Batchelder
and Major Fuller added to the committee.
Ordered, That Mr. Webster, Major Perley, and Mr. Mighill, be a com-
mittee to bring in a resolve for the purpose of recommending to the
governor and company of the colony of Connecticut, to suffer the in-
habitants of the eastern parts of this colony, to purchase and carry out
of said colony such provisions as their necessitous circumstances may
require.
Resolved, That the committee appointed to i)rcpare a letter to the
Continental Congress, be empowered and directed to communicate it
to the committee of supplies, and then to forward the same to the del-
egates of this colony at said Congress, without reporting it to this Con-
gress, said delegates to communicate it to the Continental Congress, if
they think proper.
Ordered, That Mr. Starkweather, Capt. Partridge, and Col. Dexter,
Mr. Singlctary, and Vo\. Coilin, be a committee to examine into the
1775 J THIRD PllOVLNClAL CO.NGRESS 417
conduct and books of Mr. John Pigeon, coiniiiissary general, Mr.
Pigeon having desired that a committee might be appointed for that
purpose, and that said committee consider the expediency of furnishing
Mr. Miller, a deputy commissary, with a horse.
Resolved, That tomorrow morning, ten o'clock, be assigned for the
purpose of considering the proposal of the commissary general, for an
allowance of molasses to the soldiers.
The committee appointed to bring in a resolve relative to the com-
mencement of the pay of the officers and soldiers, reported the follow-
ing, which was accepted, and ordered to be published in the papers,
and is as follows, viz. :
Resolved, That each commissioned officer in the colony army shall
draw pay, according to the present establishment, from the time of his
first engaging in the public service or receiving beating orders, and
that each non-commissioned officer and private draw pay from the
time of his enlisting in said service; also, that such of the minute men
and militia, as marched into the field on the 19th April, and soon after,
and have remained there, and since engaged in said army for the de-
fence of the colony, shall be paid for their service, agreeably to the
present establishment, from the time of their first marching into the
field.
Ordered, That Doct. Taylor, Mr. Hall, Major Brooks, Mr. Par-
tridcre, and Deacon Fisher, be a committee to consider the written
proposal of Doct. Whiting, relative to saltpetre. ^
Adjourned to eight o'clock, tomorrow morning.
Thursday, June 29, 1775.
A petition from Mr. John Calef^ was read, and committed to Major
Fuller, Col. Coffin, Mr. Hopkins, Capt. Parker, and Mr. Mighill.
The committee appointed to bring in a resolve for the purpose of
recommending to the governor and company of Connecticut, to sup«
ply the eastern country with provisions, reported : the report was ac-
cepted.* 3
A letter from the committee of safety, enclosing a letter from Mr.
Samuel Smith, chairman of the committee of Northfield, was read, and
ordered to be sent to the committee of supplies.'*
a [and is as follows.]
(1) Doct. Whiting recommended, that information in relation to the manufacture of saltpetre
should be obtained from skilful persons in New York.
(2) This petition was for leave to send a ship fitted out in Salem, upon a foreign voyage.
(3) The substance of the resolve is staled in the te.vt : the ongiual has not been preserved.
(4) The committee of Northfield informed Congref't, that two smill cannon belonging to AI;fS5a
53
418 THIRD PROVINCIAL CONGRESS. [June 29,
Tlie coiuinittce appointed to consider the petition from Narragua-
gus and other towns at the eastward, reported. The report was or-
dered to subside, and the petitioners had leave to withdraw their peti-
tion, i
Ordered, That the President, Major Hawley, Doct. Whiting, Mr.
Hopkins, and Mr. Greenleaf, be a committee to prepare an address to
Generals Washington and Lee, to be presented to them on their arri-
val here.
The committee appointed to consider the petition of officers belong-
ing to Col. Prescott's, Col. Fry's and Bridge's regiments, reported :
which report was accepted." ~
Ordered, 'V\\\ii tlic resolve passed the 19th instant, relative to spears,
&c., be recommitted to Major Goodwin for amendment.
The committee appointed to consider a proposal made by Doct.
Whiting, for sending some person to New York, to advise with Doct.
Graham and others, and procure from them directions for the manu-
facture of saltpetre, reported; which report was ordered to lay on the
table, and Mr. Phillips and Doct. Whiting were appointed to confer
with Mr. Professor Sewall, on the subject matter contained therein.
The committee appointed to consider some methods for supplying
the soldiers, stationed on the sea coasts, with provisions, reported.
The report was amended and accepted, and is as follows, viz. : Re-
solved, that the selectmen of the several towns or plantations on the
sea coast, or, where there are no selectmen, the assessors of such
place where any such soldiers shall be stationed for their defence, be,
and they hereby are directed, to supply the officers and soldiers with
suitable provisions for their support, so long as said men continue in
the colony service, and do their duty of soldiers in their several sta-
tions, for which provisions, the said selectmen or assessors shall be
paid, out of the public treasury, the sum of five shillings for each man,
per week, who shall be so supplied. And it is recommended to the
owners of the Elizabeth Islands, to supply the soldiers that may be
stationed on said islands, for which they shall be allowed, out of the
treasury aforesaid, the same sum per week, which is allowed for the
u. [mid is us follows.]
chuaetts, uml u Uuulilu fortiliuil gun of New nnmpsliire, were left at Fort UuMiiner when tliut for-
tress was disnianlhil, and a camion at Fort HinEdalo, ubovo Nortlifield ; all four pounders, whicli
might be conveyed to the army.
(1) The scarcity of provisions and the deficiency of urins were asuigned as the reasons for de-
clining to make tlic appropriations requested by the petitioners.
(2) The report appears to have pointed out a mode of adjust in;; dillicullios which liad arisen ia
rclatiun to the rank of some of the ollicors of the rcsinionti.
\7ir>.\ iMinu) iMJoviNci \i, coxrjiM'.ss no
supply of the soldiers to l)c stationed in (lie oIImt |>:ir(s of (lie sea
coast.
Onl( rr(/, Thwl Mr. Ilohart, Col. I'arlcy and Mr. Webster, be a coiii-
mitteo to iiKinire of the coiiiinittcc of supplies, in what mnnner tlie
military stores in Watcrtowii are gnarded, and that tliey lake eUectual
care tiiat they he })roperly guarded, and that there he ii<it so large a
tiuaiitity kej)! together, as there now is in one place.
A letter from the committee of safety, respecting Gcii. Ward's
ordering tliem to deliver out small arms to such oflicers as may apply,
was read ; the consideration whcieof was referred to 9 o'clock, to-
morrow morning.
The committee on the petition of Mr. John Calef, reported. The
report was accepted, and is as follows, viz. : It appearing to this
Congress inconsistent with the best interest of tliis colony, that the
within mentioned ship should proceed on her voyage as requested by
the within memorialist, therefore, llcsolvcd, that the said ship do not
accordingly proceed on said voyage, till further order from this Con-
gress, or some future house of representatives.
Afternoon.
Ordered, That Col. Freeman, Doct. Taylor and Mr. Lothrop, be a
committee to consider in what manner enlisting orders and commis-
sions shall be given to the officers of the several companies to be sta-
tioned on the sea coasts.
Mr. Palfrey was introduced to this Congress, who brought with him
a number of letters, which were brought from England by Capt.
Jenkins.^
Resolved, That Ensign Campbell, now a prisoner at Concord, be
sent for to this Congress, and that Doct. Taylor and Capt. Stone be
directed to search his packages, and see that he is brought to this
Congress, and that Mr. Partridge be directed to bring in a resolve
empowering said gentlemen to [perform] this service.
Ordered, That the letters directed to gentlemen in Rhode Island,
be sent to the officers of the Rhode Island forces ; those to Connecti-
cut to the officers of the Connecticut forces; and those directed to
New Hampshire, to the officers of the New Hampshire forces.
Ordered, That Doct. Whiting, Mr. Webster and Col. Freeman, be
a committee to take under consideration a resolve of Congress, em-
powering the committee for procuring guns, to draw on the treasurer,
(1) Some of those letters contained the exprcB3ion of friendly sentiments, others inforni.-it ion of the
preparations for reducing the colonic!) to ohediencc ; and among them vcrc niiiny addressed In in-
dividuals oil affairs of liusincss and trade.
4'>Q THIRD PllOVlNCIAl, CONGRESS. [June 29,
for the value of what they purchase, and to report what alterations are
necessary to be made therein.
Ordered, That Mr. Hopkins, Mr. Phillips and Col. Farley, be a
committee to supervise the letters brought to this Congress by Mr.
Palfrey.
Resolved, That the committee of supplies be directed to furnish the
committee appointed to go to Concord, with horses.
Mr. Partridge, agreeably to order, reported the following resolve,
which was accepted.
Resolved, That Doct. Taylor, and Capt. Stone of Framingham, be
a committee, whose duty it shall be to repair to the town of Concord,
and make search, or cause strict search to be made, into the pockets
and packages of Ensign Campbell, now a prisoner at Concord, and is
suspected of having letters of public concernment concealed in his
possession ; and that they cause said Campbell to be brought imme-
diately to the door of this Congress, in order for examination, if they
judge it necessary.
The committee appointed to prepare an address to the several
towns in the counties of Hampshire and Worcester, recommending
them to supply the army with powder, reported. The report was ac-
cepted, and is as follows, viz. :
7'o the several Towns in the Counties of Ilampskirc and Worcester:
This Congress, taking into their most serious consideration, the
great want of powder in our public magazines, and considering how
much depends on that important and most necessary article, which,
under God, if provided, may prove the salvation of America; and as
your towns lay the least exposed to the ravages of our enemies, there-
fore, it is most earnestly recommended by this Congress, to the select-
men of each town and district in the county of Worcester, that they
deliver the whole of the towns' stocks, in said county of Worcester,
to Mr. John Caldwell, Mr. Amos Singletary and Deacon Israel
Nichols, a committee appointed by this Congress to receive the same ;
and it is likewise recommended to the selectmen of each town and
district in the county of Hampshire, to deliver their respective towns'
stocks of powder, to Capt. Noah Goodman, who is appointed by this
[Congress] to receive the same from said county of Hampshire ; ex-
cept so much as is allowed to be kept in each town, which will appear
by the schedule hereunto annexed, and that it be replaced, as soon as
I775.J TillRD PROVINCIAL CONCJRESS. 421
the state of the colony magazines will admit thereof, or otherwise will
be paid for in money.'
Ordered, That Mr. Caldwell, Mr. Singletary and Deacon Nichols,
be a committee to procure powder from the several towns in the coun-
ty of Worcester, agreeably to said schedule, and Capt. Goodman,
from the county of Hampshire.
Ordered, That Capt. Brown, Col. Davis and Mr. Fairbanks, be a
committee to inquire where safe and convenient stores may be had,
for storing what gunpowder is or may be procured for the use of this
colony, and that they sit forth vvith.
An account exhibited by Mr. Ichabod Goodwin, was read, and com-
mitted to Deacon Stickney, Capt. King and Mr. Thompson.
The report of the committee on the motion of Doct. AVhiting, was
again read, amended and accepted, and is as follows, viz. : The com-
mittee appointed to take into consideration a motion made for sending
some proper person to New York, in order to advise with Doct. Gra-
ham and others, and procure from them directions for the manufactur-
ing of saltpetre, have attended that service, and beg leave to report, by
way of resolve, that Doct. William Whiting be a committee to repair
to New York, and confer with Doct. Graham, or any other gentlemen
that have had experience in the manufacturing of saltpetre, and that
he be directed to procure from him or them, the most minute, partic-
ular, and intelligible account, relative to the manufacturing of this ar-
ticle, possible, and that, if to be found, he procure and engage some
ingenious person, who has been used to work in the business of mak-
ing saltpetre, to come immediately to this place, who shall be em-
ployed in said business, and that the expenses of said journey to New
York, and the travel of said workman to this place, be paid out of
the public treasury of this colony.
The leport of the committee on the account of Mr. Paul Revere,.
was read, whereupon. Ordered, that tomorrow morning, ten o'clock,
be assigned for the consideration thereof.
The committee on the petition of Robert Shillaber, reported. The
report was accepted, and is as follows, viz. : Kesolved, that Mr. Rob-
ert Shillaber be, and he hereby is permitted, to export to the West In-
dies, eighty hogsheads of Jamaica fish : provided, that no other provi-
sion be shipped with the said fish, except so much as will be sufficient
for such a voyage; and the committee of safety in Salem, are directed
to see this resolve strictly complied with.
(1) Tlic vote aoeeplinj this report was reconsidered. The revised schedule is inserted in the
journal of June 30.
422 THIRD PROVINCIAL CONGRESS. [June 30,
Ordered, That Major Goodwin, Col. Dwight, and Capt. Bragdon,
be a committee to prepare instructions to the committee who were ap-
pointed to procure powder from the counties of Hampshire and Wor-
cester, and that tliey sit forthwith.
The committee on tlie account of Major Goodwin, reported. The
report was accepted, and is as follows, viz. : Resolved, that the re-
ceiver general be, and he hereby is ordered, to pay to Major Ichabod
Goodwin, £2 Ms 8d, for his time, horse, and expenses, in going ex-
press to Falmouth, by order of the committee of safety.
Adjourned to Friday morning, eight o'clock.
Friday June 30, 1775.
Ordered, That Mr. Wheeler, Major Fuller, and Mr. Greenleaf, be a
committee to bring in a resolve for the purpose of appointing some per-
son to convey one Green, a captive, to Worcester gaol, there to be con-
fined till further order of this Congress.
The committee appointed to consider what was best to be done with
the supernumerary sheets of colony notes, reported. The report was
accepted, and is as follows, viz. : The committee appointed to consid-
er what shall be done with the supernumerary sheets, struck off from
the plate containing the twenty, fourteen, and six shilling bills, have
attended to that service, and find, upon examination, that there are one
hundred and twenty-seven sheets above the number proposed, which
make the sum of two hundred and fifty-four pounds ; and beg leave to
report, that it is their opinion, that an order of Congress be taken, for
committing said sheets to the care of the receiver general, until the
further order of the Congress or House of Representatives.
Ordered, That Major Hawley bring in a resolve, directing the com-
mittee of safety to consider the expediency of granting a further emis-
sion of bills of credit.
A letter from the committee of safety, enclosing one from the com-
mittee of safety of Portsmouth, to Doct. Langdon, and an anonymous
letter wrote from Boston to Portsmouth, which was intercepted by the
said committee at Portsmouth, was read, and Ordered, that a copy of
the letter from the committee of safety of Portsmouth, be transmitted
to the committee of supplies, and that the anonymous letter lie on the
table. 1
(1) The intercoplcil loiter was ruldrpsscd to Hugh Hcndorson, nnd is witlioiit signature. The
copy follows :
"1103T0N, 22 June, 1775."
" Dear Hi'gh : — I take this opportunity of letting you know our wolHirL'. We have liad a great
deal of confusion last Saturday ; hut wc have great reason of Ihaiikfuhiess that the trooiTs got the
1775] 'IMIIRD IMIO VINCI AL CONGRESS. 423
Ordtrrd, That such of the coininittee who were appointed to deliv-
er out commissions, as arc now present, be directed to attest the list
of oflicers commissioned.
Ordered, That Mr. Wheeler, be directed to deliver the supernumer-
ary bills to the receiver, and take his receipt for the same.
A petition of Doct. William Whiting was read,' whereupon, Resolv'
cd, that the receiver general be, and he is hereby directed, to i)ay to
Doct. Whiting, the sum of eight pounds, in colony notes, towards de-
fraying the expenses of the said Doct. Whiting, which may accrue in
his journey to New York, said Whiting to be accountable for the same
to this Congress or some future House of Assembly of this colony.
The committee appointed to consider some measures to prevent the
spreading of the small pox, were directed to sit forthwith.
Ordered, That Deacon Fisher, Mr. Lothrop, and Col. Richmond,
be a committee to consider a resolve of the committee of safety, rela-
tive to artificer's accounts, and that said committee be directed to con-
sider such accounts as may be transmitted to this Congress, by the
committee of safety, and to report thereon.
Resolved, That the resolve of this Congress relative to procuring
powder from the counties of Hampshire and Worcester, be reconsider-
ed, and that the same, together with the report of the committee ap-
pointed to prepare instructions to the committee appointed to procure
powder from said counties, be recommitted.
Ordered, That Capt. Stone, Mr. Plympton, and Mr, Johnson, be a
committee to bring in a resolve for the purpose of making provision for
the poor of the town of Charlestown.
Ordered, That Col. Coffin, Mr Lothrop, Capt. Nye, Capt. Bragdon,
and Col. Mitchell, be a committee to inquire into the state of the two
light houses at Cape Ann, and the light house at the entrance of Bos-
ton harbor, and also, that at Plymouth, and consider whether it is ex-
pedient to continue the lights therein.
better of the people. It was one of the boldest attacks almost of the ago, as they had [Bunker
Hill] very strong; but tliey did not keep it fifteen minutes after the attack begun, and such firing I
never hoard, so constant, 1 saw it all the time. There are a great many country pcoplo killed and
among them is Doctor Warren : About thirty are taken prisoners and arc in town. One vessel of
the second fleet came in last night ; so, I am in hopes the troops will be soon cnalilcd to bring them
to a sense of duty."
" If you have any apprehension of danger, I think you had best como to town."
" Yours, &c."
The committee of Portsmouth informed Congress, that a ship had been sent from Boston, to pro-
cure provisions from the islands.
(1) Doctor Whiting stated, that ho had not received pay for attendance on the sessions of Con-
gross from the town he represented ; and lequcsled, that funds might be advanced from the public
treasury to defray the cxpoiisos of his mission to New York.
424 THIRD PROVINCIAL CONGRESS. [June 30,
Major Hawley, agreeably to order, brought in the following resolve,
which was accepted.
Resolved, That the committee of safety be a committee, forthwith
to consider, whether the exigencies of this colony do require, that
there should be, as soon as possible, a grant made by this Congress of
a further emission of notes or bills of credit, and that they consider of
what sum it is proper that grant should consist, and of what denomina-
tions such bills should be, and whether they should bear any interest,
and if any, what the rate of such interest should be, and at what time
such notes or bills should be payable or redeemed, and whatever other
regulations the said committee shall judge it expedient such notes or
bills should be issued upon, and that the said committee report as soon
as may be.
Ordered, That Deacon Fisher bring in a resolve, directing the re-
ceiver general to pay the sum of three pounds ten shillings, to the com-
mittee appointed to procure powder from the county of Worcester, and
two pounds ten shillings, to Capt. Goodman, who is appointed to pro-
cure powder from the county of Hampshire.
Afternoon.
The form of a warrant for surgeons of the hospital, was read and
accepted, and is as follows, viz. :
The Congress of the Colony of the Massachusetts Bay, to
Greeting.
Being informed of your skill in surgery, and reposing special trust
and confidence in your ability and good conduct, [we] do by these
presents, constitute and appoint you, the said to be a
surgeon of the hospital, established by order of the Congress, in ,
for the sick and wounded of the colony army. You are, therefore,
carefully and diligently to discharge the duty of a surgeon of said hos-
pital, in all things appertaining thereto, observing such orders and in-
structions as you shall, from time to time, receive from any, your su-
perior oflicers, according to the rules and discipline established by said
Congress, for which, this shall be your sufficient warrant.
By order of Congress,
Dated the day of A. D. 1775.
Ordered, That warrants be made out to the following officers, viz. :
Doct. Lemuel Cushing, surgeon ; Doct. Gad Hitchcock, surgeon's
mate ; Adam Bayley, quarter master ; Luther Bayley, adjutant ; in
1775.] rillRl) PROVINCIAL CONGRESS. 425
General Thomas's regiment: Doct. Lemuel Howard, hurgeon to the
Ro.\l)ury Hospital.
Mr. Jabez Matthews was admitted to give an account of his embas-
sy to Quebec.
Ordered, That commissions be delivered to sundry officers in Col.
Whitcomb's regiment, agreeably to a list of this date, by him exhib-
ited.
Deacon Fisher, agreeably to order, reported the following resolves,
which were accepted :
Resolved, That the sum of three pounds and ten shillings, be paid
out of the public treasury, by the receiver general, who is directed to
pay the same, to John ["Caldwell,] Esq., for the use of the committee
that was chosen to collect gunpowder within the county of Worcester,
for the use of the army, and that they be accountable to this Congress
or some future House of Representatives.
Resolved, That the sum of two pounds and ten shillings, be paid out
of the public treasury, by the receiver general, who is hereby directed
to pay the same, unto Mr. Noah Goodman, to bear his expenses in col-
lecting gunpowder within the county of Hampshire, for the use of the
army, he to be accountable for the same to this Congress or some fu-
ture House of Representatives.
The committee appointed to prepare a form of a commission, &lc.,
for the officers of those companies, who are to be stationed on the sea
coasts, reported. The report was accepted, and is as follows :
The committee appointed to take into consideration in what manner
and form commissions, beating and enlisting orders, be made out to
the officers to be appointed and raised for defence of the sea coast,
having taken the premises into consideration, would humbly report
the following draught of a blank for commissions, viz. :
The Congress of the Colony of the Massachusetts Bat/, to
, Gentleman, Greeting.
We, reposing especial trust and confidence in your courage and
good conduct, do, by these presents, constitute and appoint you, the
said to be a , of a company of foot, appointed
by said Congress, to be raised for the protection and defence of the sea
coast in this colony. You are, therefore, carefully and diligently to
discharge the duty of a , in leading, ordering, and exercising
the said company in arms, both inferior officers and soldiers, and to
a [Colvill.]
54
426 THIRD PROVINCIAL CONGRESS. [June 30,
keep tliem in good order and discipline ; and they are hereby com-
manded 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 your superior officers, or from those who are or may be
appointed to liave the direction of the said company or companies, in
the several towns or counties where you may be stationed, according to
military rules and discipline in war, in pursuance of the trust reposed
in you. By order of Congress.
, President.
the day of , A. D. 1775.
Attest, , Secretary.
Also, your committee beg leave to report the following blank or
form for beating orders, viz. :
To .
Sir : — You are hereby empowered, immediately, to enlist a compa-
ny, to consist of forty-seven able-bodied, effective men, including ser-
geants, corporals, drummers, &lc., as soldiers in the Massachusetts
service, for the defence of the sea coast in this colony, and cause them
to pass muster as soon as may be.
By order of Congress,
, President.
day of , A. D. 1775.
Attest, , Secretary.
Your committee likewise report the following form of an enlist-
ment, viz. :
We, the subscribers, do hereby solemnly engage and enlist our-
selves, as soldiers in the service of the Massachusetts colony, for the
defence and protection of the sea coasts in said colony, from the day of
our enlistment to the last day of December next, unless the said service
should admit of a discharge of a part, or the whole, sooner, which is to be
determined by the Congress or General Court, or Assembly of said colony.
And we do hereby promise to submit ourselves to all the orders and
regulations of the army, and faithfully to observe and obey all such or-
ders as we shall, from time to time, receive from our superior officers.
Your committee also beg leave to report, that the committees in the
several counties, appointed by this Congress, to give out beating and
enlisting orders, be directed to fill up said commissions and orders, and
177').] rillKI) TROVlNCIAh CONUIIKS.S. I:i'/
to deliver the coriiinissions to the ofliccrs as soon as their companies
arc lull ; also, that a person he appointed in each of tlioso counties
upon the sea coast, to administer the oath to oirKcrs and soldiers.
NATIIANIKL FREH.MAN, C/talnuaii.
Rcsulcrd, 'J'iiut there be one hundred and twenty hiank connnis-
sions printed, sixty beating orders and one hundred and Iwenly cidist-
ing orders.
Ordered, That Col. Freeman, Doct. Taylor, and Col. Farley, be a
committee to consider in what manner crimes shall be punished, which
may be committed by any of the officers or soldiers of the forces sta-
tioned on the sea coasts.
Resolved, That all warrants for staff officers, which may in future be
delivered, be dated tlie day they are delivered.
Resolved, That all commissions to fill up vacancies, be dated the
day they are delivered.
The committee appointed to consider some measures for making pro-
vision for the poor of the town of Charlestown, reported. The report
was recommitted.
Ordered, That Col. Grout, and Mr. Woodbridge, be added to the
committee appointed to consider the accounts which the committee of
safety may transmit to this Congress.
Ordered, That the committee appointed to inspect the letters
brought by Capt. Jenkins, be a committee to consider what is best to
be done with them ; and that Mr. Dickinson be of that committee, in
the room of Mr. Phillips.
The committee appointed to inquire where safe and convenient
stores for securing gunpowder might be had, reported. The report
was accepted, and is as follows :
The committee appointed to look out for a place, or places, for the
safe keeping the powder that is, or may be lodged in this town, have
attended that service, and beg leave to report, as their opinion, that
some part of the powder be kept in the middle school-house, and some
part in the east school-house, also, some part in a building belonging
to Mr. Josiah Capen, near the great bridge; also, that a building be
erected, as soon as possible, within the limits of the said Capen's land,
not far from the great bridge in said Watertown, which place was pro-
posed sometime since, to build a provincial magazine at, agreeably to
a law of this colony. All which is humbly submitted.
JONATHAN BROWN, prr order.
The same committee [were directed] to see that the powder is well
guarded, and to consider and report what sort of a building shall be
erected.
42S THIRD PROVINCIAL CONGRESS. [June 30,
The committee directed to prepare instructions to the committee
who were appointed to procure powder from the counties of Worces-
ter and Hampshire, reported. The report was accepted, and is as fol-
lows, viz. :
To the several towns in the county of Hampshire, on the easterly
side of Connecticut river, and the towns in the county of Worcester.
This Congress, taking into their most serious consideration the
great want of powder in our public magazines, and considering how
much depends on that important and most necessary article, which,
under God, if provided, may prove the salvation of America; and, as
your towns lay the least exposed to the ravages of our enemy: there-
fore, it is most earnestly recommended by this Congress to the select-
men of each town and district in the county of Worcester, that they
deliver the whole of the towns' stock of powder, in said county of
Worcester, to John Caldwell, Esq., Mr. Amos Singletary, and Mr.
Israel Nichols, or either of them, a committee appointed by this Con-
gress to receive the same, except so much as is allowed to be kept in
each town, which will appear by the schedule hereunto annexed ; and
that it be replaced so soon as the state of the colony magazines will
admit thereof, or otherwise will be paid for in money.
And it is likewise recommended to the selectmen of each town and
district in the county of Hampshire, except those on the westerly side
of Connecticut river, to deliver the respective town stocks of powder
to Mr. Noah Goodman, who is appointed by this Congress to receive
the same from the county of Hampshire, agreeably to the annexed
schedule : therefore, Resolved, that the said committees, appointed by
this Congress to collect the powder from the counties of Worcester
and Hampshire, be directed to give a receipt to the selectmen of such
towns as they shall receive powder from, in the form following :
The day of , 1775. Received of A. B., selectmen of the
town of , the town stock of powder, containing weight, to
the use of the Massachusetts' Bay; which powder is to be replaced
again, as soon as the state of the colony magazine will admit of it, or
paid for in money.
And the committee appointed to receive the powder are hereby, sev-
erally, empowered and directed, to employ such wagoners, or team-
sters, as shall be necessary, with great despatch, to convey the same
to the committee of supplies ; for which service, said wagoners and
teamsters, when they have delivered said powder to the committee of
supplies, and shall produce a certificate from either of the committee
men appointed to collect said powder, setting forth the sum agreed
1775]
THIRD PROVINCIAL CONGRESS.
429
for the conveyance of said powder, tlicn the committee of supplies
shall give orders to the receiver general of the colony, for the sum so
agreed for, to be paid in cash; and the receiver general is hereby di-
rected to pay the same accordingly.
The schedule is as follows, viz. :
-
'J'owm's slurk .if
---
'I'o
III' lift in
Towns' naincH.
PCWIIT.
.<ui.
ilifil nlri'icdy.
own.
COUNTY OF WORCESTER,
Worcester, . - -
2i barrels,
1
barrel.
h
barrel.
Lancaster, ...
2.i do.
1
do.
h
do.
Meiidon, - - - -
5i do.
2
do.
h
do.
IJrookfield, ...
6 do.
3
do.
h
do.
Oxford, . - - -
3.1 do.
1
do.
h
do.
Cliarlton, . . _
15 do.
h
do.
h
do.
Sutton, ....
4.i do.
.
h
do.
Leicester, . . _
2 do.
1
do.
h
do.
Spencer, - - - -
h do.
.
-
h
do.
Paxton, - . . -
-
-
.
h
do.
Rutland, - - . -
-
-
-
h
do.
Oakham, ...
.
.
.
k
do.
Hubbardston, ...
-
.
.
h
do.
New Braintree,
1 do.
.
.
i
do.
Southborough,
15 do.
.
.
h
do.
Northborough,
2 do.
1
do.
h
do.
Slirewsburj^, ...
5 do.
-
.
h
do.
Lunenburg, . - .
2 do.
-
.
h
do.
Fitchburg, - . -
-
-
-
i
do.
Uxbridge, ...
2 do.
-
.
h
do.
Harvard, - - ' -
2i do.
_
_
h
do.
Dudley, - . . -
.
-
-
h
do.
Hutchinson, ...
2 do.
h
do.
h
do.
Bolton, ....
2 do.
_
h
do.
Upton, ....
11 do.
.
.
h
do.
Sturbridge, - . -
tih do.
-
-
h
do.
Leominster, ...
1 do.
.
.
h
do.
Hardwick, ...
2 do.
-
.
h
do.
Western, - _ .
.
-
.
i
do.
Holden, . - . .
i do.
-
-
k
do.
Douglas, - . - -
-
-
-
h
do.
Grafton, ....
2i do.
.
.
h
do.
Petersham, ...
3 do.
.
-
h
do.
Royalston, ...
-
-
-
i
do.
Westminster, ...
h do.
.
.
k
do.
Athol, ....
-
-
.
i
do.
Templeton, . - -
2 do.
-
-
h
do.
Princeton, ...
la do.
-
.
\
do.
Ashburnham, - - -
-
.
-
h
do.
Winchendon, - - -
-
-
-
\
do.
Westborougb,
3 do.
h
do.
h
do.
Northbridge, - - -
-
-
-
k
do.
COUNTY OF HAMPSHIRE.
Springfield, ...
n do.
-
-
i
do.
Wilbraham, . - -
1 do.
-
.
k
do.
Hadley, - - - -
1 do.
.
-
\
do.
South Hadley, - - -
li do.
-
-
•i
do.
430
THIRD PllOVlNCIAL CONGRESS.
[July 1,
SClIEDVLli— Continued.
Towns' iiamos.
Town's stock of
powder.
Supplied already.
To be left in
town.
Amherst, . - -
Granby, - - - -
Montague, - . -
Northtield, ...
Brimfield, _ . -
South Brimfield,
Mousou, - - - -
Pelham, ... -
Palmer, - . - -
New Salem, ...
Belchertown, - - -
Warwick, . _ .
Shutesbury, . - -
^ barrel,
n do.
1 do.
h do.
1 do.
1 do.
1 do.
-
i barrel,
i do.
i do.
i do.
i do.
k do.
i do.
i do.
A do.
i do.
i do.
i do.
i do.
Ordered, That Capt. Brown make provision for the two poor
women, late of the town of Charlestown, now at the door, till to-mor-
row morning.
Ordered, That Mr. Kollock, Col. Grout, and Mr. Dickerson, be a
committee to examine the accounts of Major Barber, agreeably to his
letter,
A letter from the committee of inspection of the town of Biddeford,
was read, and committed to Col. Richmond, Capt. Stone, and Mr.
Lancrdon, who are directed to examine the prisoner, Thomas Neat,
brought from Biddeford, and report.^
Adjourned to 8 o'clock, to-morrow morning.
Saturday, July 1, 1775.
[The committee appointed to bring in a resolve for the purpose of
making provision for the poor of the town of Charlestown, reported
the following, which was accepted, viz :]
Whereas, the distressed circumstances of the inhabitants of the town
of Charlestown, calls for the charitable aid of this colony: therefore,
Resolved, that such of those inhabitants as are unable to remove or
support themselves, be removed to the several towns in the county of
Worcester, mentioned in the schedule hereunto annexed.
And it is further recommended to the selectmen of the aforesaid
towns to provide for, and employ said inhabitants, in the best and most
prudent manner that may be, and render their accounts to this or some
(1) A suspicloug person, named Tlioiiius Neat, a deserter from one of tlie king's sliips, was ar-
rested in Biddeford, and sent as prisoner to Wutertown.
1775.] THIRD PROVINCIAL CONGRESS. 431
future ConoTCss, or House of Representatives, wliirli reasonable ac-
counts sliall be paid out of the public treasury of said colony.
And it is further Resolved, that Deacon Cheever, Capt. Brown, and
Major Fuller, of Newton, be a coniiiiittee to agree with teamsters, not
exceeding the rate of nine pence per ton per mile, for transporting such
inhabitants as are unable to travel, with their effects, and give certifi-
cates to such teamsters, expressing that they are the poor of the town
of Charlestown, and the sum they are to receive for such service; and
upon said teamsters producing said certificate to the committee of
supplies, endorsed with the test of the selectmen of the town where
such poor and their effects are lodged, that said teamster has done the
service agreed for, per said certificate, the committee of supplies are
iiereby directed to draw, on the receiver general of said colony, for the
payment of said teamster ; and the said receiver general is hereby
ordered to pay the same.
County of Worcester. Lancaster, 30; Mendon, 30; Brookfield,
20 ; Oxford, 15 ; Charlton, 10 ; Sutton, 30 ; Leicester, 12 ; Spencer,
10; Paxton, 7; Rutland, 15; Oakham, 6; Hutchinson, 20 ; New
Braintree, 15 ; Southborough, G ; Westborough, 20 ; Northborough,
10; Shrewsbury, 10; Fitchburg, 10; Uxbridge, 10.
The committee appointed to consider what methods would be proper
to try and punish crimes which may be committed by the soldiers sta-
tioned on the sea coasts, reported. The report was recommitted, and
Major Hawley and Mr. Greenleaf added to the committee.
Two letters from Rev. John Murray were read, and committed to
Col. Grout, Major Fuller, of Newton, and Major Goodwin.
An account of Jabez Matthews [for a journey to Quebec] was
read, and committed to Major Fuller, Col. Mitchell, and Mr. Ingalls.
Ordered, That Mr. Lothrop, Mr. Dickenson, and Mr. Nye, be a
committee to consider a resolve of the committee of safety, respecting
whaleboats.
A resolve of the committee of safety, proposing that electrical points
should be erected over the powder magazines, was read, and commit-
ted to the committee who were appointed to build a store for depositing
gunpowder therein, and seeing that it is well guarded.
A petition from eighteen Stockbridge Indians was read, and com-
mitted to Mr. Kollock, Mr. Crane, and Major White.
The committee appointed to examine Thomas Neat, reported. The
report was accepted, and is as follows : The committee apj)ointed to
examine Thomas Neat, have attended that service, and are humbly
of opinion, that he ought to be discharged, and set at liberty, and do
433 THIRD PROVINCIAL CONGRESS. [July 1,
recommend him for a pass, to be signed by the secretary, to go to New
York, there to apply for a further pass, as he proposes to go to Vir-
ginia. Submitted. EZRA RICHMOND, pr. order.
Resolved, That the following persons be appointed deputy commis-
saries in the Massachusetts army, being one to each regiment :
Mr. Samuel Norton, recommended by Col. Lincoln.
Capt. Ebenezer Craft, of Sturbridge, recommended by Col. Learned,
Rev. Mr. Paine, &-c.
Mr. Jedediah Easterbrooks, Lunenburg, recommended by Mr. Gill
and Dr. Taylor.
Mr. Ezekiel Cheever, Boston, recommended by "[Col. Pigeon.]
Mr. Samuel Russell Gerry, Marblehead, recommended by do.
Mr. Ebenezer Warren, Boston, recommended by the hon. committee
of supplies.
Mr. John Fenno, Boston, recommended by Secretary Ward.
Mr. Alexander Sheppard, Newton, recommended by '[Col. Pigeon.]
Mr. Ephraim Russell, Stow, recommended by Col. Doolittle, and the
paymaster general.
Mr. Daniel Bell, Boston, recommended by Mr. Pitt.
Mr. William Mollineaux, Boston, recommended by do.
Mr. Daniel Henshaw, Jr., " " by Doct. Church.
Mr. John Checkley, " " by do. and others.
Mr. Jabez Brown, Stow, recommended by the paymaster general.
Mr. Joseph Clark, Boston, recommended by Gen. Warren, Doct.
Church, &LC.
Mr. Gillam Taylor, Boston, recommended by Gen. Warren and others.
Mr. Andrew Newell, Charlestown, recommended by Mr. Cheever.
Capt. James Littlefield, Wells, recommended by Col. Scaramon and
others.
Mr. Waterman Thomas, Marshfield, recommended by Gen. Thomas.
Mr. Peter Clark, Newfoundland, recommended by Col. Palmer dt Son.
Mr. Timothy Newell, Sturbridge, recommended by Capt. Timothy
Parker.
Mr. John Story, Ipswich, recommended by Col. Farley.
Mr. Eliakim Atherton, Bolton, recommended by Col. Whitecomb.
Mr. Abraham Tuckerman, Boston, recommended by Col. Palmer and
Col. Brewer.
Mr. William Holmes, Boston, recommended by his father.
Mr. Enoch Woodbridge, Stockbridge, recommended by Col. Porter
for Col. Paterson's regiment.
a [mysult]
1775] THIRD PROVINCIAL CONGRESS. 1:^
Resolved, That the commissary general be directed to see that a
suflicieiit number of deputy con)missaries be placed at or near Prospect
Hill, fur the more convenient supply of the forces stationed there.
The president, by leave of Congress, brought in a resolve, directing
General Ward to order two companies to Plymouth, which was ac-
cepted, and is as follows, viz :
VVliereas, the town of Plymouth appears to be in danger of being
attacked by the enemy : therefore, Resolved, that General Ward be and
hereby is directed, immediately to issue his orders, that two full com-
panies, from Col. Cotton's regiment, under proper officers, march,
without delay, to Plymouth, and there remain for the guard and de-
fence of the inhabitants, till they can be relieved by such companies
as are to be raised for the defence and protection of the sea coasts,
and to be stationed there for that purpose.
Ordered, That Col. Palmer bring in a resolve, directing that the
rules and regulations of the army be frequently read to the soldiers.
The committee appointed to consider some method of trying crimi-
nals on the sea coast, reported again. The report was accepted, and
is as follows, viz. :
Resolved, That all offences committed by any of the forces raised
for the defence of the sea coast, shall be tried by a court martial, con-
sisting of the field officers of the regiment of militia within which,
that company to which the offender belongs is stationed, together with
the commissioned officers of that company, according to the rules and
regulations for the Massachusetts army, agreed upon by a former Con-
gress, excepting those offences and causes which are punishable with
death, which are to be tried, agreeably to the laws of the land, by the
civil authority.
Also Resolved, That in case any of the soldiers shall lose, destroy, or
unnecessarily fire away any of his powder, ammunition, or cartridges,
without giving reasonable satisfaction to his commanding officer there-
for, the captain shall deduct four ["times] the value thereof out of his
wages, to be applied as is directed in the first article of the rules and
regulations abovementioned.
Also [Resolved,] That each of the officers of which these courts
martial shall consist, shall be supplied with a pamphlet, containing said
rules and regulations, with these resolves annexed thereto, which shall
be read, once a week, by the captain or commanding officer of each
company to their respective companies.
By order of Congress, , President.
Attest, , Secretary.
a [double.]
434 THIRD PROVINCIAL CONGRESS. [July 1,
Ordered, That the committee who brought in the foregoing resolves
get a number of them printed ; and that they also procure as many
pamphlets, containing rules and regulations of the army, as they think
proper.
A petition from James Fry, requesting that his son might be ap-
pointed a deputy commissary, was read : whereupon, Ordered, that
the petitioner have leave to withdraw his petition.
Ordered, That Mr. Kollock, Mr. Ellis, and Mr. Fox, be a committee
to consider a petition and account of Mr. Josiah Stearns.^
A petition from the committee of correspondence for the town of
Sandwich was read, and committed to Col. Richmond, Col. Grout,
and Col. Mitchell.2
A number more of letters from London were laid upon the table,
and committed to the secretary, Mr Langdon, and Col. Richmond.
The committee to whom were committed a number of letters, re-
ported, that, in a letter directed to John Rowe, Esq., was enclosed a
number of blank bills of exchange, designed for the use of the army at
Boston: whereupon. Ordered, that said committee draw up a true
state of this matter, and keep the blank bills as vouchers thereof
Col. Palmer, agreeably to order, reported the following resolve,
which was accepted, viz. : Whereas certain rules and regulations for
(1) Josiah Stearns prayed for compensation for services in bringing letters written in London,
from the island of Nantucket, where they had been received on tlie arrival of a vessel commanded
by Capt. Seth Jenkins.
(2) The committee of Sandwich requested the advice of Congress in relation to vessels owned by
Simeon Wing and Jesse Barlow, captured by the British cruiser Falcon, Capt. Linsey, and retaken
by a schooner from Dartmouth, commanded by Capt. Egcry. They state these facts :
" Mr. Wing's vessel, commanded by his son Thomas, hath been plying, as a wood boat, between
Sandwich and Nantucket for some years, and it hath been the usual practice to settle with the
custom house once a year, the officer always giving them their choice of paying twelve pence per
trip, or the whole at the year's end : and this hath been, we find, on examining, the common prac-
tise with other vessels which have followed the same business at the same place. Upon Captain
Wing's returning from Nantucket through the Vineyard Sound, his sloop was taken by a barge from
Capt. Linsey's brig. An Indian fellow, on board of Wing's vessel, informed Capt. Linsey of said
Barlow's vessel, which bad brought a cargo lately from the West Indies, and was laden with pro-
visions, in Buzzard's Bay. Cajitain Linsey employed Captain Wing's vessel, putting fourteen men
on board, to proceed uptlio bay and take said Barlow's vessel, which they carried ofl'. The master
of the latter vessel was taken with Wing, being then on board as a passenger, so that both vessels,
with all tlie crows and passengers, were taken, 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 ventured, and retook the vessels and men, with their arms, and carried them into Dart-
mouth. Messrs. Wing and Barlow applied to the Dartmouth people, who took the vessels, for
them again : the people ofl'ered them their vessels, upon Wing's paying them eight dollars, and
Barlow ten dollars, witli which they complied, and Wing paid the money ; after which, the Dart-
mouth people detained the vessels until the orders of Congress could be known, and refuse to give
them up, without Barlow and Wing paying forty-live dollars, and giving bonds to indemnify the
Dartmouth i)eople."
I775.J THIRD PROVINCIAL C()N(JRi:s.S. J:r>
ihc IMassacliiisettb army, wen: resolved and agreed iij)oii l)y a lornier
Congresti of tliis colony, but no provision was llicrcin made for the
regular reading the same to the several corps in said army : therefore,
Rtsulrcd, that said rules and regulations be read, at least, once every
month, at the head of each regiment, or other corps in said army, and
that the general be directed to order his officers to see that this resolve
be duly observed.
The committee appointed to prepare a letter to the governor and
company of Connecticut, reported. The report was accepted, and is
as follows, viz. :
May it please your honors :
The distressed situation of the eastern parts of this province, calling
for the serious attention of the humane, this Congress beg leave to
address you in their behalf. By reason of a number of our friends
removing from the sea ports into the interior towns, and a large army
before Boston, to support the rights of the colonies, this colony is un-
able to spare the necessary supplies of grain and provisions to our
friends in the province of Maine ; by which means, and an embargo
laid upon grain and provisions in your colony, they are reduced to the
alternative of starving, or supplying the ministerial troops with lumber,
either of which they deprecate.
We would therefore suggest to your honors the expediency of taking
off the embargo, so far as to permit the inhabitants of the eastern parts
of this province to purchase grain and provisions for themselves, they
producing a certificate from any of the committees mentioned in the
enclosed list, and giving bonds to your officers, that they will deliver it
to such committee.
We are, with the greatest sincerity,
Your honors' most obedient humble servants.
To the honorable the Governor and Company
of the colony of Connecticut.
[List enclosed in the foregoing letter.]
Machias; James Lyon, George Stillman, Jeremiah O'Brian, Ben-
jamin Foster, Samuel Scott, Manwaring Beal, Nathaniel Sinclair :
JVumber four ; John Stevens, Phineas Whitten : Goldshorough ; Ben-
Ijamin Glasher, William Shaw : Narraguagus; Joseph Wallis, Alex-
ander Campbell : St. Georges; [blank]: Penobscot; [blank]: Bris-
tol; [blank]: Boothbay ; David Reed, [Joseph] Emerson : Poicnal-
horough; Timothy Langdon, Ebenezer Whittier, John Getchell, John
436 THIRD PROVINCIAL CONGRESS. [July 1,
Huse, Timothy Parsons : Georgetown ; Dummer Sewall, John Wood :
Brunsivick ; Aaron Hinckley, Esq., Benjamin Stone: North Yar-
mouth; Samuel Stanwood : Falmouth, Casco Bay; Hon. Jedediah
Prebble, Esq., Hon. Enoch Freeman, Esq., Mr. Richard Codman,
Capt. John Waite, Mr. John Butler, Mr. Samuel Freeman, Mr. Ben-
jamin Winslow : Berwick; Hon. Benjamin Chadburn, Mr. John
HHl, Mr. Robert Furnass.
The committee on the account of Mr. Jabez Matthews, reported.
The report was accepted, and is as follows, viz. :
[Resolved, That the receiver general be, and he is hereby directed
to pay Mr. Jabez Matthews or order, the sum of thirty pounds nine
shillings and eleven pence, lawful money, in colony notes or bills of
credit of this or the other governments, which are, by a resolve of this
Congress, made payable on the said treasury, in discharge of an ac-
count exhibited by him to this Congress, for the time and expense of
himself and three persons on an embassy to Canada. And the com-
mittee of supplies are hereby ordered to furnish Mr. Jabez Matthews
with four pounds of powder, for himself and associates.]
The committee appointed to consider the resolve of the committee
of safety, relative to whale boats, reported. The report was recom-
mitted.
Afternoon.
Mr. Kollock was appointed, in the room of Major Goodwin, on the
committee for making provision for the reception of Generals Wash-
ington and Lee.
Ordered, That Col. Mitchell deliver the 215 spears, which he has
procured for the use of the army, to General Thomas, at Roxbury.
Ordered, That Doct. Taylor, Mr. Fox, and Capt. Bragdon, be a
committee to bring in a resolve, directing how the sick and wounded
shall be removed to the hospitals.
Thomas Rice, Esq. was appointed to swear the soldiers in the
county of Lincoln, in the room of David Fales, Esq. John Lee, Esq.
was appointed to swear the soldiers in the county of Essex, and Rush-
worth Jordan for the county of York, in addition to those already
appointed.
A petition from the selectmen of Mendon was read, and the petition-
ers had leave to withdraw their petition.
The committee appointed to consider how the soldiers shall be
supplied with coats, reported, and Tuesday next, at 9 o'clock, A. M.,
was assigned to consider the report.
The committee appointed to take into consideration the memorial
1775] THIRD PROVINCIAL CONGRESS. 437
from the committee of correspondence of the town of Sandwich, re-
ported. Tlie committee were directed to bring in a resolve to recom-
mend to the parties in said petition mentioned, to leave the matters in
dispnte to arbitration.
Major Ilawley, by leave of Congress, brought in a resolve, directing
the receiver general to pay out of the treasury, the bills of credit of the
other colonies. The resolve was accepted, and is as follows :
Resolved, That the receiver general of this colony, be, and he hereby
is directed, as far as shall be in his power, to pay and satisfy any drafts
and orders of this Congress, or of any person or persons, who are, or
shall be empowered by this Congress to draw on him for any sum or
sums whatsoever, in such notes or bills of credit of any of the American
colonies, which, by a resolution of this Congress, passed on the 28th
day of June last, are made payable into the treasury of this colony,
where such orders do not expressly direct the payment of silver or gold.
The committee appointed to devise means for the better accommo-
dation of the sick and wounded of the colony army, reported. The
report was accepted, and is as follows, viz. : In order that all the sick
and wounded in the army may be provided for, and taken care of, in
the best way and manner possible, Resolved, and it is hereby Ordered,
that when any person in the army is so ill, either by a wound or oth-
erwise, that the surgeon of the regiment, to which the sick or wounded
person belongs, finds the sick or wounded as abovesaid cannot be
properly taken care of in the regiment to which he belongs, said sur-
geon shall send the sick or wounded as abovesaid, to the hospital pro-
vided for the use of the camps to which they belong, and a certificate
of the man's name, and the company and regiment to which he belongs;
and in that case, the surgeon of the said hospital shall receive said sick
or wounded under his care ; and in case said hospital shall become too
full, in that case, the surgeon of said hospital shall send such of his
patients as may with safety be removed, to the hospital in Watertown,
and a certificate setting forth the man's name, what company and
regiment each belongs to ; and in that case the surgeons of the Water-
town hospital shall receive said sick or wounded under his care.
Ordered, That a copy of the last mentioned resolve be sent to Gen-
erals Ward and Thomas.
The report of the committee upon the account of Mr. Paul Revere,
was considered and not accepted.
Ordered, That Major Hawley, Mr. Dexter, and Mr. Pickering, be a
committee to draw up a resolve to be prefixed to the addresses to Gen-
erals Washington and Lee, which are as follow.
438 THIRD PROVINCIAL CONGRESS. [July 1,
To His Excellency Geoi-ge Washington, Esq., general and com-
mander in chief of the continental army :
May it please your excellency : — The Congress of the Massachu-
setts colony, impressed with every sentiment of gratitude and respect,
beg leave to congratulate you on your safe arrival, and to wish you all
imaginable happiness and success in the execution of your elevated
station.
While we applaud that attention to the public good, manifested in
your appointment, we equally admire that disinterested virtue, and dis-
tinguished patriotism, which alone could call you from those enjoy-
ments of domestic life, which a sublime and manly taste, joined with a
most affluent fortune can afford, to hazard your life, and to endure the
fatigues of war, in the defence of the rights of mankind and the good
of your country.
The laudable zeal for the common cause of America, and compas-
sion for the distresses of this colony, exhibited by the great despatch
made in your journey hither, fully justify the universal satisfaction we
have with pleasure observed on this occasion, and are promising presa-
ges, that the great expectations formed from your personal character
^nd military abilities, are well founded.
We wish you may have found such regularity and discipline already
established in the army, as may be agreeable to your expectations.
The hurry with which it was necessarily collected, and the many dis-
advantages, arising from a suspension of government, under which we
have raised and endeavored to regulate the forces of this colony, have
rendered it a work of time; and though, in great measure effected, the
completion of so difficult, and at the same time so necessary a task, is
reserved to your excellency, and we doubt not will be properly consid-
ered and attended to.
We would not presume to prescribe to your excellency, but suppos-
ing you would choose to be informed of the general character of the
soldiers who compose the army, beg leave to represent, that the great-
est part of them have not before seen service; and although naturally
brave, and of good understanding, yet, for want of experience in mili-
tary life, have but little knowledge of divers things most essential to
the preservation of health and even life. The youth of the army are not
possessed of the absolute necessity of cleanliness in their dress and
lodging, continual exercise, and strict temperance, to preserve them
from diseases frequently prevailing in camps, especially among those,
who, from their childhood, have been used to a laborious life.
We beg leave to assure you, that this Congress will, at all times, be
1775] THIRD PROVINCIAL CONGRESS. 439
ready to attend to such requisitions as you may have occasion to make
to us; and to contribute all the aid in our power, to the cause of Amer-
ica, and your happiness and ease in the disciiarge of the duties of your
exalted office.
We most fervently implore Almighty God, that the blessings of Divine
Providence may rest on you ; that your head may be covered in the day
of battle ; that every necessary assistance may be afforded, and that you
may be long continued, in life and health, a blessing to mankind.
[The following answer was returned by General Washington :]
Gentlemen : — Your kind congratulations on my appointment and ar-
rival, demand my warmest acknowledgments, and will ever be retain-
ed in grateful remembrance.
In exchanging the enjoyments of domestic life for the duties of my
present honorable, but arduous station, I only emulate the virtue, and
public spirit of the whole province of the Massachusetts Bay, which,
with a firmness and patriotism without example in modern history, has
sacrificed all the comforts of social and political life in support of the
rights of mankind, and the welfare of our common country. My high-
est ambition is, to be the happy instrument of vindicating those rights
and to see this devoted province again restored to peace, liberty and
safety.
The short space of time which has elapsed since my arrival, does not
permit me to decide upon the state of the army. The course of hu-
man affairs forbids an expectation, that troops formed under such cir-
cumstances, should, at once, possess the order, regularity, and disci-
pline of veterans. Whatever deficiencies there may be, will, I doubt
not, soon be made up by the activity and zeal of the officers, and the
docility and obedience of the men. These qualities, united with their
native bravery and spirit, will afford a happy presage of success, and
put a final period to those distresses which now overwhelm this once
happy country.
I most sincerely thank you, gentlemen, for your declaration of read-
iness, at all times, to assist me in the discharge of the duties of my sta-
tion. They are so complicated and extended, that I shall need the as-
sistance of every good man and lover of his country ; I therefore repose
the utmost confidence in your aids. In return for your affectionate wish-
es to myself, permit me to say, that I earnestly implore that divine be-
ing, in whose hands are all human events, to make you and your con-
440 THIRD PROVINCIAL CONGRESS. [July 1,
stituents, as distinguished in private and public happiness, as you have
been by ministerial oppression, by private and j)ublic distress.
GEORGE WASHINGTON.
To the Honorable Charles Lee, Esq., major general of the continen-
tal army :
Sir : — The Congress of the Massachusetts colony, possessed of the
fullest evidence of your attachment to the rights of mankind and regard to
the distresses, which America in general, and this colony in particular,
are involved in, by the impolitic, wicked, and tyrannical system adopted
by administration, and pursued with relentless and savage fury, do, with
pleasure, embrace this opportunity to express the great satisfaction and
gratitude they feel on your appointment as a major general in the
American army. We sincerely congratulate you on your safe arrival
here, and wish you all possible happiness and success in the execution
of so important a trust.
We admire and respect the character of a man, who, disregarding
the allurements of profit and distinction his merit might procure, en-
gages in the cause of mankind, in defence of the injured, and relief of
the oppressed. From your character, from your great abilities, and
military experience, united with those of the commander in chief, un-
der the smiles of providence, we flatter ourselves with the prospect of
discipline and order, success and victory.
Be assured, sir, that it will give us great pleasure to be able to con-
tribute to your happiness. May the favors and blessings of Heaven at-
tend you. May Divine Providence guard and protect you, conduct
you in the paths of honor and virtue, grant you the reward of the brave
and virtuous here, the applause of mankind, and the approbation of
your own conscience and eternal happiness hereafter.
[The following answer was returned by General Lee :]
To the Gentlemen of the Provincial Congress of the Massachusetts :
Gentlemen : — Nothing can be so flattering to me, as the good opin-
ion and approbation of the delegates of a free and uncorrupted people.
I was educated in the highest reverence for the rights of mankind, and
have acquired, by a long acquaintance, a most particular regard for the
people of America. You may depend, therefore, gentlemen, on my
zeal and integrity ; I can promise you nothing from my abilities. God
Almighty grant us success equal to the righteousness of the cause. I
1775] THIRD riiOVLNClAL CONGRESS. 441
thank you, gentlemen, for an address which docs mc so much honor,
and sliall lahor to deserve it.
Ordered, that the sum of fifty pounds be paid to Mr. Paul Revere, in
full, for engraving four plates, and printing 14,500 impressions, and
that Mr. Langdon bring in a resolve for that purpose.
Ordered, That Mr. Phillips, Col. Grout, and Mr. Crane, be a com-
mittee to devise means for supporting the poor of the towns of Boston
and Charlestown to the places of their destination.
Ordered, That the committee for procuring and furnishing a house
for Generals Washington and Lee, be directed to purchase what things
are necessary, that they cannot hire.
Ordered, That Mr. Goodwin and Col. Richmond be added to the
committee last mentioned.
Ordered, That the last mentioned committee be directed to procure
some refreshment for the Generals, Washington and Lee.
Mr. Langdon, agreeably to order, brought in the following resolve,
which was accepted, viz. :
Resolved, That there be paid, out of the public treasury of this col-
ony, to Mr. Paul Revere, or order, the sum of fifty pounds, in full, for
procuring and engraving four plates, and printing 14,500 impressions
of colony notes ; and the receiver general is hereby directed to pay the
same sum accordingly.
The committee appointed to consider of means for securing sundry
whale boats, procured for the use of this colony, and now lying at
Weymouth and Braintree, beg leave to report : That Capt. Edmund
Soper, of Brahitree, be empowered to take charge of the same, and
with the assistance of Capt. Seth Turner's and Capt. Vinton's compa-
nies, now posted in Braintree, to convey and secure them in some safe
and convenient place, where they will not be exposed, either to the
enemy, or the weather, and there to remain till the further order of this
or some future Congre.«;s, or House of Representatives.
Adjourned till eight o'clock, tomorrow morning.
Sabbath day, July 2, 1775.
Ordered, That Mr. Bliss and Mr. Cutt, be of the committee for de-
vising means for the support of the poor of the towns of Boston and
Charlestown, to the places of their destination, in the room of Mr.
Phillips and Mr. Crane.
The report of the committee for securing the lamps of the light
houses, was read, accepted, and is as follows, viz. :
56
442 THIRD PROVINCIAL CONGRESS. [July 2,
The committee appointed to consider the expediency of removing
and securing the Iani[)s, with the oil, &c., from the several light houses
within this colony, have attended that service, and beg leave to report
as follows, viz. :
That it be lecommended to the committee of correspondence, or se-
lectmen of the town of Chelsea, to remove and secure, if practicable,
the lamps and oil from the light house at the entrance of Boston har-
bor, with all the appurtenances thereto belonging ; also, that it be
recommended to the committee of safety of the town of Gloucester,
that the same measures be taken with respect to the light houses
on Thatcher's Island, so called, and that the keeper of said lights, with
the several boats, cattle, &c., be also removed from thence.
Furthermore, that it be recommended to the committee of corres-
pondence for the town of Plymouth, to remove and secure the lamps,
oil, &.C., from the light house at the Gurnet, so called, with all the ap-
purtenances thereto belonging ; and, that the keepers of the several
light houses as above specified, be discharged from the service of this
colony, till the further order of this or some future Congress, or House
of Representatives.
Ordered, That three copies of the last mentioned report be sent to
the places in said report mentioned, and that the committee, who drew
the report, forward the copies.
Ordered, That Doct. Taylor, Mr. Pickering, and Mr. Greenleaf, be
a committee to write to Mr. Russell, desiring him to pay the money
due from him to the treasury, immediately.
The petition of Joseph Barrell for himself and others, [was] read, and
ordered to lie upon file.^
(1) This petition bears date June 30, 1775, and is as follows :
" The petition of Joseph Barrell, late of Boston, humbly shevvetli, tliat in tlio fire in Boston,
which began in the soldiers' barracks, on the evening of the 17th of May last, his store, together
■with his effects to a very considerable amount, were consumed, i'our petitioner humbly appre-
hends, that this loss is entirely occasioned by the cruel oppression of the British administration ; as,
at the general desire of the friends of the country, he removed with his family from Boston, that
scene of distress, and, by the chicanery of General Gage, was prevented from carrying his effects
■with him ; as he, with his distressed townsmen, were shamefully deceived by the fairest promises
of a speedy removal, with their effects, without molestation, until the end of the capituliiion on the
side of the general was fully answered, and then tlicy were insulted, by the most cruel perversioc
of that comprehensive, plain English word effects, confining it to a few trifles, which, when they
were suffered to depart, was clogged with such restrictions as will forever disgrace him. But, not-
withstanding all this, still your petitioner had been safe, in all probability, had not the General, by an
order, as extraordinary as it was new, secured from the inhabitants the fire engines, and given the
use of them to his trooj'S ; whereby, as your petitioner is informed, it was a very considerable time
before they were in use at all, and then were conducted wilh such consummate ignorance as to be
of no service; in which time, the flames raged to that degree, that no human help could prevent
them ; and your petitioner is further informed, that some of his efl'ects, saved from tlic fire by his
friends, were afterwards wantonly destroyed by the savage order of the ofticcr of the army.
1775.] TIIIRD PROVINCIAL CONGIIESS. 443
Tlio letter of Mr. Alex.iinlcr {5lic|)par(l, Jim., to the conMiiittfc of
safety [was] rcatl.^
The report of the committee for devising means for tlie support of
tlie poor of Boston and Charlcstown, to the places of tlicir de.stination,
was read, and accepted, and is ys follows:
Whereas, it is necessary, that further provision be made for the sul-
fering poor of the towns of Boston and Charlcstown, therefore, llesolc-
I'd, that such person or persons as shall j)roduce a certificate from any
or either of the selectmen or overseers of the poor of the .said towns,
that they arc of the poor of the town to which the said selectmen or
overseers do, or did in March last, belong, that then the commissaries,
in the towns of Watertown and Roxbury, are hereby directed to deliv-
er, out of the province stores, to them, a sufficiency of provisions to car-
ry them to the place of their destination, the commissary to take a re-
ceipt from such selectmen or overseers therefor.
And it is recommended to the inhabitants of this province, to treat
such poor with humanity, by affording them shelter in their houses
from the weather, and, if desired, to exchange such provisions with
them as said poor may have occasion for on their way.
Ordered, That the foregoing resolve be published in the Water-
town, Cambridge, and Worcester newspapers.
Adjourned to four o'clock, P. M.
At four o'clock, P. M., the Congress met, and adjourned to Monday
morning, eight o'clock.
Monday, July 3, 1775.
Ordered, That the committee of safety, who were appointed a com-
mittee to take into consideration the expediency of a new emission of
notes or bills of credit, be directed to sit, and report as soon as possi-
ble.
Resolved, That the resolve of the first instant, ordering the rules and
regulations of the army to be read monthly, be reconsidered.
Resolved, That the receiver general be directed to pay to Mr. Josiah
Whsreforo, your petitioner humbly hopes, that his case, tojotlipr witli the case of his fellow stif-
forers, may, by the honorable Congress, be roprcsonteil to the graiiil Continental Congress, that they,
in tlieir great wisdom, may take such measures as to them shall soem fit, to alleviate their sufTor-
ings, and that what is thus destroyed in the general rausp, may not fall so very heavily on any indi-
vidual."
(1) The letter of Alexander Sheppard, Jun., related to ooniponsalion for ?uiveys of lands iji tbr-
lirovince, now the state, of Maine.
444 THIRD PROVINCIAL CONGRESS. [July 3,
Stevens, the sum of two pounds, in colony notes or bills of credit, pay-
able to said receiver, for his services in bringing a number of letters to
this Congress, taken out of a vessel from London.
Afternoon.
A vote of the Congress of New Hampshire [was] read, and Messrs,
Child and Ashley, the bearers thereof, [were] admitted on the floor. ^
They produced a letter from Messrs. Bucknam and Wales, to Col. Bay-
ley, of New Hampshire, and his answer.
Ordered, That Messrs. Dexter, Col. Lincoln, Doct. Church, Mr.
Pitts, and Capt. Bragdon, be a committee to confer with Messrs. Child
and Ashley, from the province of New Hampshire.
Ordered, That the addition of the words " overseers of the poor," be
added to the resolve of yesterday, respecting the poor of the towns of
Boston and Charlestown.
Ordered, That Mr. Cutt, Col. Farley, and Col. Dwight, be a com-
mittee to take into consideration the petition of Thomas Morton, [for
leave to export fish.]
Ordered, That a letter for Thomas Irving, Esq., be opened, and or-
dered to be committed to the committee who were to take under con-
sideration, what should be done with the letters from London.
The petition of the selectmen of Abington, [relating to donations for
the poor of Boston,] was read, and committed to Col. Mitchell, Mr.
Lothrop, and Mr. Ellis.
Major Goodwin, who was appointed to bring in a resolve for direct-
ing the committee of supplies to furnish the non-commissioned officers,
who lost their clothes and blankets, in the late engagement, with
clothes and blankets, reported. The report was accepted, and is as
follows :
Whereas, in consequence of a letter from General Ward, provision
was made, by a resolve of this Congress, for private soldiers who had
lost their clothes and blankets in a late engagement, but no provision
was made for non-commissioned officers in similar circumstances,
therefore. Resolved, that the committee of supplies be, and they hereby
are directed, to furnish said non-commissioned officers with clothes
and blankets, in such manner and form as they were directed by said
resolve to supply said privates.
Adjourned to Tuesday morning, eight o'clock.
(1) The communication from New Hnmjiehire related to tlic eetablisliment of friendly intei-
eonrse and union witli the people of Canada.
Ji775.j THIRD PROVINCIAL CONGRESS. 446
TuKSDAY, July 4, 1775.
Ordered, That the honorable the president, lion. Major Hawley,
and Mr. Greenleaf, be a committee to prepare a letter to Governor
Trumbull, desiring him to forward to this colony, as soon as may be,
whatever flour may arrive at Connecticut for the use of the army.
A letter from Col. Gridley was read, [relating to the commissions of
officers,] and ordered to lie on the table.
Ordered, That Mr. Pickering, Mr. Partridge, and Mr. Goodwin, be
a committee to prepare a letter to General Washington, informing him
of the provision this Congress has made for the sick and wounded of
the army.
An account of Ephraim Fenno was read, and committed to Mr.
Wheeler, Mr. Jewett, and Col. Dwight.
Ordered, That Asa Barns, and other officers of Col. Woodbridge's
regiment, recommended by the committee of safety, be commissioned,
agreeably to the recommendation of said committee.
The committee on the petition of the selectmen of Abington, report-
ed, verbally, that the matter respecting the donations for the poor of
Boston, be considered at large.
Ordered, That Col. Mitchell, Capt. Stone, Mr. Kollock, Col. Jones,
and Mr. Crane, be a committee for that purpose.
Ordered, That Mr. Johnson, Mr. Fairfield, and Mr. Crane, be a
committee to examine the accounts of those persons who were empow-
ered to procure arms for the use of the colony army.
The committee on the petition of Thomas Morton, reported. The
report was ordered to lie on the table for the present.
A resolve of the committee relative to the goods of Thomas Hutch-
inson, Esq., and others, hid in and about Milton, was read, and com-
mitted to Major Bliss, Col. Grout, and Mr. Crane.
Resolved, That three o'clock, P. M., be assigned for the choice of
some gentleman to serve on the committee of supplies, in the room of
Mr. Vose, who declines serving.
Ordered, That Mr. Jewett, Mr. Lothrop, Capt. Thatcher, Col.
Jones, Mr. Wheeler, Col. Farley, and Mr. Cross, be a committee to
consider the expediency of making a draw bridge of the bridge at
Cambridge, agreeably to the request of General Washington, and that
said committee be directed to sit forthwith.
At the request of General Washington, communicated by Mr. Gill,
Resolved, that no more commissions, for the present, be delivered to
any officers of the colony army, those employed, more particularly, for
the protection of the sea coasts excepted.
446 THIRD PROVINCIAL CONGRESS. [July 4,
The resolve relative to furnishing the soldiers with coats, was con-
sidered, and recommitted for amendment.
Ordered, That Mr. Partridge, Mr, Pickering, and Doct, Taylor, be
a committee, to consider in what manner the late inhabitants of the
town of Boston, may choose members to represent that town in the
next General Assembly of this colony.
Resolved, That the committee of supplies be, and hereby are direct-
ed, to supply the Rev. Mr. Gordon with a good horse to use during
his service as a chaplain to this Congress.
Ordered, That Doct. Taylor, Doct. Church, and Mr. Johnson, be a
committee to bring in a resolve appointing Doct. [Andrew] Craigie, a
commissary of medical stores, and that said committee be directed to
consider what is a proper establishment for his pay.
Afternoon.
A recommendation of the committee of safety relative to an Indian's
having a horse, was read, and committed to Doct. Taylor, Mr. Par-
tridge, and Mr. Glover.
Ordered, That Capt. Brown, Capt. Parker, and Mr. Richmond, be
a committee to sort and count the votes for a member of the commit-
tee of supplies, in the room of Major Vose, and Capt. Partridge was
chosen in the room of Major Vose.
Ordered, That the committee for making out commissions, be di-
rected to make out a commission for Samuel Brewer, as adjutant gen-
eral, and date it the day of his appointment.
The committee appointed to write a letter to Governor Trumbull,
reported. The report was read, and ordered to be recommitted for
additions and amendments.
Ordered, That any three of the committee of supplies, of which Mr.
Gill is to be one, in the absence of Mr. Cheever, be a quorum to do
business.
The committee upon the letter relative to the Indian's having a
horse, reported. The report was accepted, and is as follows, viz. :
Resolved, That a small horse, taken by Henries Vomhavi, from Nod-
dle's Island, be granted to the said Henries for his own use, to encour-
age his further brave conduct and good behaviour in camp.
Ordered, That Col. Spalding, Mr. Woodbridgc, and Mr. Johnson,
be a committee to take under consideration the sufferings of Abraham
Nimham.^
Ordered, That Mr. Glover, Doct. "[Taylor,] and Col. Grout, be on
(1) This person mot with some pecuniary loss, while employed in the piihlic service, in bearing
.1 letter to the Western Indians.
a [Glover.]
1775] THIRD PROVINCIAL COiNGRESS. 447
tlie committee of conference with tlic mcmljcrs from New Hampshire,
in the room of Mr. J'itts, Col. Lincohi, and Capt. Jjragdon.
Ordircd, That Mr. Bent be on tlie committee for the Abington
petition, in the room of Doct. Jones.
Ordered, That the President, Mr. Langdon, and Major Bliss, be a
committee to take into consideration the conduct of the people of Nan-
tucket, and report what is expedient to be done with respect to them.
Ordered, That Mr. Wheelock, with letters from the Congress of
New Hampshire, be admitted upon the floor.
Ordered, [That] Doct. Church, Air. Hopkins, and Major Bliss, be
a committee to introduce Mr. Wheelock, and also to deliver a copy of
the letter from New Hampshire to his excellency General Washington,
and also to draw an answer to the letter from New Hampshire.
The report of the committee upon the account of Mr. White was
accepted, and is as follows, viz. :
The committee appointed to consider accounts, transmitted to tliis
Congress by the committee of safety, beg leave to report, by way of
resolve, that William White be paid the sum of six pounds, lawful
money, for service done by said William White, by order of the com-
mittee of safety, and that the receiver general be directed to pay said
sum to the said William White.
The committee appointed to write to Governor Trumbull, reported.
The report was read, accepted, and is as follows, viz. :
3Iai/ it please your honor :
Your favor of the 27th June, we received, and heartily thank you
for the information therein given us. The arrival of the flour from
New York to Norwich, gives us great pleasure, as we stand in need of
large supplies of that commodity. We request your honor to give or-
ders that the same may be forwarded, as soon as possible, to our com-
mittee of supplies at Watertown ; and any further quantities that may
arrive hereafter, we desire may be sent, immediately upon its arrival,
to the same committee; almost all the grain in this colony being
already brought in, and our stock not equal to the demands for bread.
We have the pleasure to be able to acquaint your honor, that Gen-
erals Washington and Lee, with Mr. Mifllin, aid-de-camp to General
Washington, arrived at Cambridge, last Sabbath, in good health, a lit-
tle after 12 o'clock, at noon, and have great reason to expect, from
their known characters, and their activity, and vigilance, already dis-
covered, that their presence in the army will be attended with most
happy consequences. Our camps at Cambridge and Roxbury are
448 THIRD PROVINCIAL CONGRESS. [July 4,
daily putting on a more defensible appearance ; the health in our army
is as general as we could expect. Several privates in the Cambridge
camp were last week taken down with the small pox, but we have great
reason to hope, that the precautions taken on this occurrence, will, by
the divine blessing, prevent the spreading of that distemper in the
camp.
We are, with the greatest respect, your honor's
Most obedient humble servants.
Ordered, That Col. Grout, Mr. Langdon, and Doct. Taylor, be a
committee to take into consideration the letter from Mr. Sheppard,
relative to the eastern plans of the sea coasts.
The committee appointed to bring in a resolve for appointing Mr.
Craigie, medical commissary, reported. [The report] was read, and is
as follows, viz. :
Resolved, That Mr. Andrew Craigie be, and he is hereby appointed
a medical commissary and apothecary for the Massachusetts army, and
that said Craigie be allowed five pounds per month, for his services as
abovesaid.
Ordered, That the committee for making out commissions make
out a warrant for Mr. Craigie, medical commissary.
The committee appointed to take into consideration the loss of In-
dian Nimham, reported. The report was read, accepted, and is as
follows, viz. :
The committee appointed to consider the losses of Abraham Nim-
ham, in his journey to Cagnawauga, in carrying a message to the
Indians, beg leave to report by way of resolve : That the said Abra-
ham Nimham be paid the sum of thirty-six shillings, lawful money, and
that the receiver general be directed to pay the said sum to Jahleel
Woodbridge, Esq., and he to account with the said Abraham Nimham.
Resolved, That this Congress will attend to matters of the greatest
importance, that they may finish the business and dissolve, sometime
before the sitting of the General Court.
Ordered, That the matter contained in a resolve of the committee
of safety, relating to the effects of refugees, being before provided for
by this Congress, subside.
Adjourned to Wednesday morning, 8 o'clock.
Wednesday, July 5, 1775.
A letter from William Tollman, of Dartmouth, was read, and com-
mitted to the committee appointed to consider at large of the donations
for the poor of Boston.
1775] THIRD IMKJVINCIAL CONCJRKSS. 449
The report of the committee on the petition of Tliomas Morton was
read, and accepted, and is as follows, viz. : The committee appointed
to consider the memorial of Thomas Morion, beg leave to report by
way of resolve :
Resolved, That the prayer of the memorial be granted, and that
William Powell, Esq., late of Boston, have leave to export one thousand
quintals of Jamaica old codfish, to the West Indies, and that the com-
mittee of correspondence in Newburyport see that the said William
Powell, Esq. strictly complies with the resolutions of the continental
and provincial Congresses.
Ordered, That Mr. Greenleaf, Col. Richmond, Doct. Taylor, Mr.
Glover, and Capt. Holmes, be a committee to wait upon General Wash-
ington, to inform him that this Congress have it in contemplation to
rise this week, and to know if he has any matter to lay before the
Congress.
A list of surgeons who have been examined and approved of, by a
committee of this Congress, was laid before the Congress, and read,
and is as follows :
Doct. David Jones, surgeon ; Samuel Blanchard, mate, in Col. Ger-
rish's regiment; Aaron Putnam, mate, in Col. Fry's regiment; Joseph
Hunt, mate to Doct. Joseph Foster, in Cambridge hospital ; Jacob
Bacon, mate in Col. Scammon's regiment ; Harris Clary Fridges,
mate ; Edward Durant, surgeon. Col. Mansfield's regiment ; Josiah
Harvey, mate. Col. Fellow's regiment; Abraham Watson, Jr., surgeon,
William Vinal, mate. Col. Gardner's regiment; Doct. John Georges,
mate. General Heath's regiment ; Doct. Isaac Spafford, surgeon, Co!.
Ni.xon's [regiment] ; Doct. John Crooker, surgeon in Col. Scammon's
regiment ; Doct. Walter Hastings, surgeon in Col. Bridges' [regi-
ment] ; Doct. Timothy Child, surgeon, in Col. Patterson's [regiment] ;
Doct. Levi Willard, surgeon, in Col. Reed's [regiment] ; Doct. Daniel
Parker, surgeon, in Col. Walker's [regiment] ; and Doct. Thomas
Kittridge, surgeon, in Col. Fry's regiment.
Thereupon, Ordered, That warrants be made out for them agreea-
bly thereto.
Resolved, That the order of Congress relative to the date of the war-
rants for the staff officers, be so far reconsidered, as that the warrants
for the surgeons be dated the 28th June, ultimo.
Ordered, That the committee who were appointed to deliver out
commissions to the officers of the army, be a committee to prepare,
and lay before this Congress, a list of such as have been commission-
ed.
57
450 THIRD PROVINCIAL CONGRESS. [July 5,
A form of a warrant for a medical commissary, was read and accept-
ed, and is as follows, viz. :
The Congress of the Colony of the Massachusetts Bay, to
, Greeting.
We, being informed of your skill in medicine, and reposing especial
trust and confidence in your ability and good conduct, do, by these
presents, constitute and appoint you the said , to be
medical commissary and apothecary to the army raised by this Con-
gress, for the defence of this colony. You are, therefore, carefully and
diligently to discharge the duty of a medical commissary and apothe-
cary in all things appertaining thereto, observing such orders and in-
structions as you shall, from time to time, receive from any your su-
perior officers, according to the rules and discipline established by said
Congress, for which this shall be your sufficient warrant.
By order of Congress,
, President.
Ordered, That Col Smith, Mr. Plympton, Mr. Ellis, Mr. Bigelow,
Deacon Stone, Capt. Brown, Major Fuller, and Capt. Stone, be a com-
mittee to procure two hundred axes with helves, immediately, for the
use of the army, and when procured, to forward them immediately to
General Washington, or his order, and lay before the Congress a list
of the persons of whom they shall be procured, with the price agreed
on, and that the committee assure the persons of whom they may pro-
cure said axes, that they shall be paid for, as soon as the Congress can
make provision therefor.
The committee appointed to consider in what manner the late in-
habitants of the town of Boston, should choose representatives, report-
ed. The report was accepted, and is as follows, and was ordered to
be sent immediately to Mr. William Cooper; viz. :
As it appears to this Congress, fit and reasonable, that the good peo-
ple of the town of Boston, though at present in a dispersed state, should
have a just and equal representation in the great and general assembly
of this colony ; and as the choice of representatives for that purpose,
in legal town meeting, convened, in the common and ordinary way, is,
at present, utterly impracticable, therefore. Resolved, that Mr. William
Cooper, town clerk of Boston, be, and he hereby is empowered and di-
rected, by notifications, under his hand, in the several newspapers, im-
mediately to notify and give warning to the freeholders and others who
177r>.] TITTUD PROVINCIAL CONGKESS. 451
were inliabilaiits of the said town of Boston, and were qualified ac-
cording to law, to vote for representatives in May, 1774, and arc now
dispersed, to assemble and meet at the ineeting-liouse in Concord, on
Tuesday, the 18th day of July, instant, at three o'clock, in the after-
noon, then and there, to elect and depute one or more freeholders in
said town, according to the numbers limited by a law of this colony, to
serve for, and represent them in a great and general court or assembly,
to be convened, held, and kept, for the service of said colony, until the
day next preceding the last Wednesday of May next, if necessary, and
no longer, at the meeting-house in Watertown, upon Wednesday the
10th instant, by nine o'clock, in the forenoon, and so, from day to day,
during their session or sessions. Hereof he is desired not to fail, and
make return of this resolve, with the name or names of the person and
persons elected or deputed by a major part of the electors present, unto
the great and general assembly, at the time and place above mentioned
for its meeting.
The committee appointed the 2d instant, to prepare a letter to the
Hon. James Russell, Esq., reported. The draft prepared, was accept-
ed, ordered to be signed by the president, and forwarded, and is as fol-
lows, viz. :
Sir : — The present necessity for cash is such, that it is necessary for
this Congress to direct you to pay in to Henry Gardner, Esq., receiver
general of this colony, all the public money in your hands or care, be-
longing to said colony, without further delay.
By order of Congress,
, President.
To the Hon. James Russell, Esq., of Dunstable.
Ordered, That Capt. Holmes, Capt, Carpenter, Mr. Glover, Mr.
Jewett, and Mr. Parker, be a committee to consider some method to
prevent conveying intelligence to our enemies, and also to put a stop
to supplying them with provisions.
The committee appointed to consider the request of General Wash-
ington, relative to making a draw bridge of the bridge at Cambridge,
reported. The report was accepted, and is as follows, viz. :
The committee appointed to wait on his excellency General Wash-
ington, relative to making the bridge over Charles river, in Cambridge,
a draw bridge, have attended that service, and beg leave to report, that
his excellency suggested, that he apprehends it to be of great impor-
tance, that this business be immediately entered upon ; also, he men-
452 THIRD PROVINCIAL CONGRESS. [ July 5,
tioned, that he did not intend the passing and repassing should be im-
peded. His excellency recommends to the Congress the doing it, as
they are the best judges of proper persons to be employed. His excel-
lency hinted, that it would be agreeable to him, to be consulted as to
the manner of its being done. Per order, Dummer Jewett.
[The same committee, being directed to bring in a resolve relative
to said bridge, reported the following, which was accepted, viz. :]
Whereas, his excellency General Washington, has signified to this
Congress his desire, that the bridge over Charles river, in Cambridge,
should be made a draw bridge, and that the Congress would see to the
doing of it, immediately, therefore, Resolved, that Capt. Thatcher, Mr.
Whittemore, Mr. Temple, Mr. Cross, and Capt. Parker, be a commit-
tee to procure materials, and employ a suitable number of artificers,
for accomplishing the aforementioned business, agreeably to the direc-
tion of his excellency General Washington ; the same to be done at
the immediate expense of this colony; and, that the committee render
to this Congress or some future House of Representatives, their account
of said expense.
Resolved, That three o'clock, in the afternoon, be assigned for the
choice of some person to serve on the committee of supplies, in the
room of Mr. Partridge, who, at his request, has been excused, and that
in such choice, the members of the Congress may have liberty to vote
for any person who may not belong to the Congress.
The committee appointed to consider of the donations for the poor
of Boston, reported. The report was recommitted.
A petition of Jonathan Brewer, [relating to recruits for his regi-
ment,] was read, and committed to Deacon Stickney, Doct. Taylor, and
Col. Spaulding.
Ordered, That Doct. Taylor, Mr. Lothrop, and Mr. Jewett, be a
committee to distribute the pamphlets which contain depositions rela-
tive to the battle of Lexington.
Ordered, That Col. Glover be of the committee for stationing the
soldiers in the county of Essex, in the room of Mr. Gerry, excused.
The committee appointed to examine the accounts of the committee
appointed to procure fire-arms, reported. The report was accepted,
and is as follows, viz. :
Whereas, Messrs. John Bliss, William Page, Abiel Sadler, and
Lemuel Kollock, were appointed by this Congress to collect a number
of fire-arms, for the use of the colony, and have delivered said arms to
the committee of safety, at Cambridge, as appears by receipts from
said committee, and have exhibited their accounts for said service,
1775.] THIUT) PROVINCIAL CONORfiSS. 453
which accounts appear to be rcasonahle : tliereforc, Resolved, that
there l)e paid by the receiver jrcncral, to the several persons aforesaid,
the following sums, viz. : to John Bliss, ihc sum of £ij lis. ; to Wil-
liam Page, .£6 17s. ; to Abiel Sadler, £5 lOs.; to Lemuel Kollock,
£3 lOs.Sd.; being ^21 18s. 8r/., in full of the aforesaid account.
Ordered, That the list of persons of whom the arms were procured,
be lodged with the receiver general.
Ordered, That Mr. Partridge, Col. Bowers, and Mr. Jewett, be a
committee to consider a letter from General Ward.'
The committee appointed to consider the petition of the eighteen
Stockbridge Indians, reported. The report was accepted, and is as
follows, viz. :
Whereas, it appears to this Congress, by a petition from the Stock-
bridge Indians enlisted in the American army, that they, in their more
serious hours, being sensible of their want of prudence in disposing of
their money, are desirous that this Congress, in their wisdom, would
devise some method to prevent their getting too much strong drink,
and they also request that all their wages, that are now due, or shall
hereafter be due to them for their services, be paid to Timothy Ed-
wards, and Jahleel Woodbridge, Esq., or to their order : therefore,
Resolved, that Timothy Edwards, or Jahleel Woodbridge, Esqrs. be,
and are hereby empowered, to draw the wages of the aforesaid Indians,
and deal out the same as they shall find said Indians have need thereof,
according to any order or orders of this Congress, that have been, or
shall hereafter be made, for paying all or any part of the wages due to
the soldiers, and render an account of their doings to this, or some
future Congress, or House of Representatives, when required. And
the receiver general is accordingly directed to pay the same to the said
Timothy Edwards, or Jahleel Woodbridge, Esqrs., as aforesaid, and
take their receipt therefor. And it is also recommended and enjoined
by this Congress, that all persons who sell spirituous liquors, be par-
ticularly careful not to let said Indians have too much strong drink, as
that wholly unfits them for any service.
The committee appointed to consider a letter of Mr. Alexander
Sheppard, reported. The report was accepted, and is as follows, viz. :
The committee appointed to take under consideration the letter from
Mr. Sheppard, beg leave to report, by way of resolve, as follows, viz. :
Resolved, that it be, and it hereby is recommended to Mr. Alexander
Sheppard, jun., that he retain in his hands all the plans he hath of the
(1) The letter of General Ward related to suj/plies of arms and provisions for the soldiers in
camp.
454 THIRD PROVINCIAL CONGRESS. [July 5,
province of Maine, and that he do not suffer them to go out of his
possession, to any person, upon any consideration, until the further
order of this, or some future Congress, or House of Representatives.
Ordered, That part of the resolve, relative to the light-houses, which
empowered the selectmen and committees of correspondence to remove
and secure the lamps and oil from the light-house at the entrance of
Boston harbor, be reconsidered, and that Mr. Crane, Capt. Holmes,
and Deac, Washburn, be a committee to consider at large, on some
measures for removing and securing the lamps and oil aforesaid.
Ordered, That Mr. Bancroft, Mr. Fox, and Mr. Lothrop, be a com-
mittee to consider a letter from Mr. James Lyon, dated Machias, June
17, 1775.1
Afternoon.
The committee appointed to consider the state of the donations for
the poor of Boston, reported. The report was recommitted, and Mr.
Batchelder added to the committee, in the room of Capt. Stone, absent.
The committee appointed to bring in a resolve, for the purpose of
calling the general assembly together, at any time sooner than the 19th
instant, if occasion should require, [reported.] The report was ac-
cepted, and is as follows, viz. :
Whereas, this Congress, pursuant to the recommendation of the
General Congress of this continent, have sent out their letters to the
several towns in this colony, desiring that representatives might be
elected and returned by them, to serve in a great or general court, or
assembly, to be convened, held, and kept, for the service of this colony,
at Watertown, on the I9th day of July current ; and whereas, such
unforeseen events may take place, between this time and the said 19th
day of July, as may render the convening of such general court or as-
sembly, at Watertown aforesaid, at the time aforesaid, very improper
and unsafe ; therefore, Resolved, that Henry Gardner, Esq., Mr. Gill,
Deacon Cheever, Mr. White of Brookline, and Capt. Thatcher, be a
committee, in case they, or the major part of them should judge it im-
proper and unsafe, that such general assembly should be convened at
the said Watertown, at the time aforesaid, to agree upon, and deter-
mine, at what other place in this colony, the said general assembly
should be convened ; and the said committee, or the major part of
them, are hereby fully empowered to determine at what place it shall
be most expedient, that the said general assembly should be convened,
(1) JamcB I-yon, cliairiiian of the committee of safety, informs-: Congress, that the people of tlie
town liad determined to arm a sloop, captured from the enemy, to defend their harbor, and express-
ing deep sense of " tlieir own weakness," applied " for advice and sujiport."
1775] THIRD PROVINCIAL CONGRESS. 455
and to give notice thereof to the several persons who have been, or
may be clioscn to serve in such assembly, in such way and manner as
they shall judge most expeditious and efTectual.
Onlirrd, That Doct. Church, Col. Bowers, and Mr. Bay ley, be a
committee to confer with General Washington, on the subject of fur-
nishing his table, and know what he expects relative thereto, and that
they sit forthwith.
Ordered, That the committee appointed to procure necessary furni-
ture for the house provided for General Washington, complete the
business of tlieir commi.ssion by purchase, or by borrowing.
Ordered, That Mr. Wheeler, Col. Grout, and Mr. Durfee, be a
committee to consider a letter from Mr. James Winthrop.i
A letter from Benjamin Greenleaf, Esq. of Newburyport, was read,
accompanying sundry letters brought by Capt. Folger, from London,^
a jacket enclosed to Major Sill, of the G^Jd regiment; also, three maps
enclosed to said Major Sill, viz. : one of New England, one of Vir-
ginia and Maryland, and one of New York ; whereupon, Ordered,
that the jacket be committed to the care of the secretary, till further
orders of Congress, and that the maps be put into the hands of the
committee of supplies, and they are directed to get them framed for
the use of the colony.
The committee appointed to prepare a letter to General Washing-
ton, enclosing a resolution of Congress relative to the sick and wound-
ed, reported. The report was accepted, and is as follows, viz. :
[To Ills Excellency General Waskington :'\
This Congress ordered the enclosed resolution to be prepared, and
sent to Generals Ward and Thomas ; but by the agreeable event of
your excellency's appointment to the chief command of the American
army, and arrival at camp, the propriety of that step ceases. We mean
not to dictate to your excellency, but presume, that to secure the
health of the army, and [to afford] relief for the sick, will naturally
engage your attention. Every thing in the power of this Congress [to
do] to enable you to discharge, with ease, the duties of your exalted
and important station, will be, by us, attended to, with the greatest
(1) James Wiiithrop, Esq., Postmaster of Cambridge, represented tliat the income of the office
was insufficient for his support, that he had no other business to add by its profits to his revenue,
and tendered liis resignation.
(2) The letters enclosed in the communication of Benjamin Greenleaf, Esq., were principally of
domestic character, from the relatives, connexions, and friends of soldiers and officers of the rojat
troops in Boston.
456 THIRD PROVINCIAL CONGRESS. [July 5,
alacrity. If the enclosed resolution has that tendency, we attain the
end intended by transmitting to you the same, and are, with respect,
Your Excellency's most humble servants.
Ordered, That Doct. Taylor, Mr. Pitts, and Mr. Lothrop, be a com-
mittee to count and sort the voles for a member of the committee of
supplies in the room of Mr. Partridge. The committee having attend-
ed that service, reported, that Mr. Lothrop was chosen.
Resolved, That the resolve, directing the committee of supplies to
get the three maps framed, be reconsidered, and that the secretary be
directed to take care of them, as they are for the use of the colony.
The report of the committee appointed to consider how the soldiers
should be provided with coats, was again read and accepted, and is as
follows, viz. :
Resolved, That thirteen thousand coats be provided, as soon as may
be, and one thereof given to each non-commissioned officer and soldier
in the Massachusetts forces, agreeably to the resolve of Congress, on
the 23d day of April last; and in order to facilitate their being pro-
cured :
Resolved, That the said thirteen thousand coats be proportioned im-
mediately on all the towns and districts in this colony, except the towns
of Boston and Charlestown, [in proportion] as they paid to the last
provincial tax ; which towns and districts are desired to cause them to
be made of good plain cloth, preference to be given to the manufac-
tures of this country, and to be delivered to the committee of supplies,
without buttons, on or before the first day of October next, and sooner
if possible. That for every yard of such cloth of seven-eighths of a yard
wide, they shall be allowed and paid the sum of five shillings four
pence, and in that proportion for cloth of a greater or less width, and
the sum of four shillings for making each and every coat ; and the se-
lectmen of each town and district, respectively, are directed to lay their
accounts before the committee of supplies, who are ordered to draw on
the receiver general for the payment thereof.
Resolved, That each coat be faced with the same kind of cloth of
which it is made ; that the coats be made in the common plain way,
without hippels, short, and with small folds, and that the selectmen
cause a certificate to be sewed to the inside of each coat, purporting
from what town it came, and by whom the coat was made, and if the
cloth was manufactured in this country, by whom it was manufactur-
ed.
Resolved, That the committee of supplies be, and they are hereby
1775] THIRD PROVINCIAL CONGRESS. 457
directed, immediately, to i)ro[)Ortion the coats on tlie several towns and
districts as aforesaid, inform them of their proportion, and assure them
that the coats they supply shall be delivered to the men of their town
respectively, so far as circumstances will admit, and enclose to them a
sample of the goodness of the cloth of which the coats are to be made,
with a copy of this and the foregoing resolves, and to desire those
towns and districts who cannot supply the whole of their proportion of
the coats as aforesaid, and also those who can supply more than their
proportion, to give them information what number they can supply, on,
or before the tenth day of August next.
Resolved, That the committee of supplies be, and they are hereby
directed to provide all the coats proportioned on such towns and dis-
tricts as give information to them as aforesaid, that they cannot supply
them, and they arc to cause all the coats to be buttoned with pewter
buttons, and that the coats for each regiment, respectively, have but-
tons of the same number stamped on the face of them.
[The committee reported the following schedule of the apportion-
ment of coats, which was accepted.]^
[Suffolk Coiinty. — Roxbury, 182; Dorchester, 96; Milton, 56; Brain-
tree, 108; Weymouth, 66 ; Hingham,8S; Dedham, 104 ; Medfield,
42; Wrentham, 105; Brookline, 43 ; Needham, 43 ; Stoughton,
82 ; Stoughtonliam, 37 ; Medway, 43; Bellingham, 29 ; Hull, 21 ;
Walpole, 33 ; Chelsea, 31 ; Cohasset, 30.
Essex County. — Salem, 380; Danvers, 116; Ipswich, 204; Newbury,
177; Newburyport, 184 ; Marblehead, 26.5 ; Lynn, 93 ; Andover,
189; Beverly, 112; Rowley, 89; Salisbury, 77 ; Haverhill, 113 ;
Gloucester, 163; Top.^^lield, 43; Boxford, 54; Almsbury, 69; Brad-
ford, 63; Wenham, 41 ; Middleton, 34; Manchester, 33; Methu-
cn, 54.
Middlesex Count y. — Cambridge, 118 ; Watertown, 49; VVoburn, 81 ;
Concord, 73; Newton 66 ; Reading, 77; Marlborough, 89; Bille-
rica, 61 ; Framingham, 71 ; Lexington, 49; Chelmsford, 55 ; Sher-
burne, 36; Sudbury, 95; Maiden, 45 ; Weston, 45 , Medford, 60;
Littleton, 44 ; Hopkinton, 45 ; Westford, 51 ; Waltham, 44 ; Stow,
41; Groton, 69; Shirley, 25; Pepperell, 37; Townsend, 30;
(1) The schedule orajiportionmcnt omitted in the journal, was printed in connexion with the re-
solves, in handbill;, and is copied from the publication made at the lime of its acceptance.
58
458 THIRD PROVINCIAL CONGRESS. [July 5,
Ashby, 12 ; Stoncham, 16 ; Natick, 23 ; Dracut, 39 ; Bedford, 31 ;
Holliston, 38 ; Tevvksbury, 31 ; Acton, 37 ; Dunstable, 33 ; Lin-
coln, 33; Wilmington, 29.
Hampshire County. — Springfield, 71 ; Wilbraham, 36 ; Northampton,
81 ; Southampton, 29 ; Hadley, 33 ; South Hadley, 25 ; Amherst,
33; Granby, 17; Hatfield, 37; Whately, 13; Williamsburg, 9;
Westfield, 57; Deerfield, 41 ; Greenfield, 26 ; Sherburne, 16 ; Con-
way, 17 ; Sunderland, 25 ; Montague, 20; Northfield, 30; Brim-
field, 48 ; South Brimfield, 30; Monson,26; Pelham, 27; Green-
wich, 27; Blanford, 20 ; Leverett, 5; Palmer, 28 ; Granville, 47;
New Salem, 25; Belchertown, 31 ; Colrain, 17 ; Ware, 14; War-
wick, 12; Bernardston, 16; Murrayfield, 17; Charlemont, 12;
Ashfield, 14; Worthington, 7; Shutesbury, 16; Chesterfield, 26:
Southwick, 23 ; West Springfield, 12; Ludlow District, 23.
Plymouth County. — Plymouth, 100; Scituate, 125; Duxbury, 44;
Marshfield, 54 ; Bridgewater, 188 ; Middleborough, 160; Roches-
ter, 86 ; Plympton, 56 ; Pembroke, 66 ; Kingston, 38 ; Hanover,
37 ; Abington, 46; Halifax, 24; Wareham, 30.
Barnstable County. — Barnstable, 94 ; Sandwich, 74 ; Yarmouth, 66 ;
Eastham, 49 ; Harwich, 60 ; Wellfleet, 38 ; Chatham, 26 ; Truro,
33 ; Falmouth, 53.
Bristol County. — Taunton, 105 ; Rehoboth, 147 ; Swanzey with
Shawamet, 67; Dartmouth, 244 ; Norton, 55; Mansfield, 35; At-
tleborough, 88 ; Dighton, 49 ; Freetown, 58 ; Raynham, 37 ;
Easton, 41 ; Berkley, 29.
Yorh County. — York, 114; Kittery, 125; Wells, 89; Berwick, 134;
Arundel, 41 ; Biddeford, 46 ; Pepperellborough, 34 ; Lebanon, 9;
Sanford, 10; Buxton, 10.
Dukes County. — Edgartown, 36 ; Chilmark, 44 ; Tisbury, 32.
Nantucket County. — Sherburne, 174.
Worcester County. — Worcester, 93; Lancaster, 116 ; Mendon, 88;
Brookfield, 112; Oxford, 41 ; Charlton, 41 ; Sutton, 111 ; Leices-
ter, 41; Spencer, 37; Paxton, 24; Rutland, 53; Oakham, 16;
177r> ] 'I'lllIM) l'l{(>\ INCIAl. CONfillKSS. 459
Rutland District, Ki ; I liiljhardstoii, 8 ; Now Hrriiiitrco, II'/ ; Soiiili-
borough, 54; Wcstboroiigh, 4:J ; Nortliborougli, ;iO ; Slirc'\vsl)iir\ .
79; Lunenburgh, 57; Fitchburg, 13; Uxbridge, 55 ; Harvard, 5(i;
Dudley, ;37 ; Bolton, 55; Upton, 23; Sturbridge, 51 ; Leominster,
43; riardwick, Gl ; Iloldcn, 30; Western, 38; Douglass, 21; Graf-
ton, 42 ; Pctersliani, 43; Royalston, 9 ; Westminster, 37 ; Atbol,
23; Tcmpleton, 28; Princeton, 24 ; Ashburnham, 12 ; Wincben-
don, 10.
Cumberland County. — Falmouth, 14C; Cape Elizabeth, 53; North
Yarmouth, 54 ; Scarborough, 52 ; Brunswick, 27; Ilarpswell, 2G;
Gorham, 27; Windham, 10; Piersontown, 5; New Boston, 3; New
Gloucester, 20.
Lincoln County. — Pownalborough, 25 ; Georgetown, 50 , Woolwich,
15; Newcastle, 13; Topsham, 13; Booth-Bay, 14; Bristol, 20;
Bowdoinhani, 3 ; Medumcook, 3; Ilallowell, 4 ; Broad-Bay, 10;
Vassalborough, 3; St. Georges, 10; Winthrop, 3; Winslow, 3;
Gardinerston, 7.
Berkshire County. — Sheffield, 61 ; Great Barrington,37 ; Stockbridge,
29; Pittsfield, 37; New Marlborough, 34 ; Egremont, 14; Richmond,
26; Lenox, 16; Tyringham, 14 ; Lanesborough, 37 ; Sandisfield,
26; Williamstown, 23 ; Becket, 10; Gageborough, 12; Partridge-
field, 7; East Hoosuck, 11; Jericho, 5; Plantation, No. 5, 7;
Plantation, No. 7, 7.
Suffolk, 1189; Essex, 2553; Middlesex, 1778; Hampshire,
1204; Plymouth, 1054; Barnstable, 493; Bristol, 953;
York, 612; Dukes County, 112; Nantucket, 174; Worces-
ter, 1846 ; Cumberland, 423 ; Lincoln, 196 ; Berkshire,
413; 13,000]
Resolved, That Mrs. Dorothy Coolidge be allowed and paid out of
the public treasury of this colony, the sum of ^7 15s 8d, in full of her
account, and the receiver general of this colony, is hereby ordered to
pay the aforesaid sum of £7 15s 8d, to the said Dorothy Coolidge, or
order, accordingly.
Adjourned to eight o'clock, tomorrow morning.
460 THIRD PROVINCIAL CONGRESS. [July 6,
Thursday July 6, 1775.
Ordered, That Mr. Johnson and Doct. Jones, be of the committee
to answer the letter from the Congress of New Hampshire, in the room
of Doct. Church and Mr. Hopkins.
Ordered That the committee of safety be directed to supply Gener-
al Washington with some faithful, expeditious person, to go on express
to Philadelphia.
Ordered, That the committee of safety be a committee to desire
General Washington to let them know if there is any house at Cam-
bridge, that would be more agreeable to him and General Lee than
that in which they now are ; and in that case, the said committee are
directed to procure such house, and put it in proper order for their re-
ception.
The committee of safety, by Col. Palmer, reported a resolve relative
to a new emission of bills of credit, the consideration whereof was re-
ferred to 3 o'clock, P. M.
Ordered, That Col. Farley, Mr. Durfee, and Capt. Holmes, be a
committee to consider a letter from Mr. Joseph Hallett, dated New
York, June 26, 1775, relative to a quantity of flour forwarded to Nor-
wich, &c., for the army.
Resolved, That the committee of supplies be, and hereby are em-
powered and directed, to impress, for the service of the colony, the
saw mill at said Watertown, belonging to Mr. John Cook, or any other
mill which they have occasion for, for the public service.
Ordered, That Col. Tyng and Mr. Fox, be added to the committee
who were appointed to consider the accounts that might be transmit-
ted to Congress by the committee of safety, in the room of Mr. Loth-
rop and Deacon Fisher.
Ordered, That the committee of supplies, be directed to forward to
Newport, the letter to Lieut. Governor Cook, received by this Con-
gress in a letter from the Continental Congress.
A letter from John Fenton, Esq., was read [and] ordered to sub-
side.^
Ordered, That Major Hawley, Doct. Taylor, and Col. Grout, be a
committee to prepare a vote of thanks to the committee of this Congress
this day returned from their embassy to Ticonderoga.
Ordered, That Mr. Baker be added to the committee to examine
Major Barber's account.
(1) Mr. Fenton, a pri.sonor at Medford, desired to be removed to )iead quartcrB, and to have n trial.
1775] THIRD PROVINCIAL CONGRESS. 461
Ordvrcd, That Col. Tyng, Doct. Taylor, and Mr. Bliss, be a com-
mittee to consider an account exhibited by Doct. Church and Mr. Gill,
of the expense of entertaining and escorting Generals Washington and
Lee, from Springfield to head quarters.
Ordered, That Mr. Langdon, Major Bliss, and Mr. Jewett, be a
committee to consider the report of the committee this day returned
from Ticondcroga, and the papers accompanying it, and also the rolls
made up by Capt. Noble and Capt. Ilerrick.
Aficnioon.
A letter from General Green was read, and committed to Col. Davis,
Col. Tyng, and Mr. Recd.i
Ordered, That Col. Davis, Mr. Fessenden, and Capt. Page, be a
committee to consider a petition of Josiah Capen.
Ordered, That Mr. Whittemore, Major Bliss and Col. Dwight, be a
committee to consider the account of Mr. Allen Gray, and report.
Ordered, That Mr. Gill, Mr. Wheeler and Mr. Sullivan, be a com-
mittee to consider the services of the secretary, and report what grant
they think is adequate thereto.
Ordered, That the Hon. Major Hawley, Mr. Sullivan and Doct.
Taylor, be a committee to bring in a resolve explanatory of the sense
of Congress expressed in a resolve of the 31st ultimo, relative to the
estates of refugees.
The committee appointed to consider the account of Doct. Church
and Mr. Gill, reported verbally, that they had examined the account,
and found it well vouched, and thought it ought to be allowed.
Thereupon, Resolved, that the receiver general be, and he hereby is
directed, to pay Doct. Benjamin Church and Mr. Moses Gill, or their
order, the sum of twenty-eight pounds, five shillings, ten pence, lawful
money, in discharge of an account by them exhibited, of the expenses
of escorting and entertaining Generals Washington and Lee from
Springfield to the camp at Cambridge.
Resolved, That the committee appointed by a resolve of this Con-
gress of the first instant, to agree with such teamsters as they may
employ to convey the poor of the town of Charlestown to certain
towns in the county of Worcester, be directed to pay them a sum not
exceeding one shilling per ton, per mile, for such service, instead of
nine pence, the price fixed in said resolve, and that said committee be
(1) General Green requested, fliat Congress would interfere to restrain the sale of spirituous
liquors in the camp, the health, discipline, and morals of the troops being impaired by unlicensed
indulgence.
463 THIRD PROVINCIAL CONGRESS. [July 0,
likewise directed and empowered to remove the inhabitants of the
town of Boston in like manner.
The report of the committee of safety, relative to a new emission of
bills of credit, was taken into consideration, and recommitted to Mr.
Spooner, Major Hawley, Doct. Taylor, Capt. Stone and Mr. Wheeler,
who are directed to consider the sum of the bills already impressed
and the propriety of striking off more from the same plates.
Resolved, That the committee of supplies be directed to pay the
selectmen of the several towns and districts in the colony, for the
blankets they have respectively furnished the soldiers with, any resolve
of Congress to the contrary notwithstanding.
The committee appointed to consider the report of the committee
[sent on an embassy] to Ticonderoga, reported. The report was re-
committed, and the last mentioned committee are directed to lay be-
fore the committee first mentioned, a state of their account, debt and
credit.
The committee appointed to prepare a vote of thanks to the com-
mittee who have been on an embassy to Ticonderoga, reported. The
report was accepted, and is as follows, viz. : Whereas, Walter
Spooner, Jedediah Foster and James Sullivan, Esquires, a committee
of this Congress, lately ordered on a commission to the important
posts of Ticonderoga and Crown Point, for divers purposes expressed
in their instructions, have this day returned and made their report in
writing, and it appearing upon full consideration thereof, that the said
committee have executed the various branches of their instructions,
with ability, fidelity and despatch, and that their services had been at-
tended with much fatigue and danger, therefore, Resolved, that the
services of said committee do merit the express approbation and thanks
of Congress, and they do hereby testify and render the same to them,
and each of them.
Ordered, That Mr. Hemmenway, Mr. Whittemore and Capt. Par-
ker, be a committee to consider what allowance is proper to be made
to Mr. Edmund Fowle, for the use of his house by the committees of
this and the former Congress.
The committee appointed to consider the accounts transmitted to
Congress by the committee of safety, reported on the account of
Ebenezer White and others. The report was accepted, and is as fol-
lows, viz. :
Whereas, Messrs. Ebenezer White, Daniel Hemmenway, Col.
Simeon Spaulding and Benjamin Ely, were appointed to collect a
number of fire-arms for the use of this colony, and have delivered said
1775.] THIRD PROVINCIAL CONGRESS. 463
arms, as appears by receipt from tlic committee of safety, or clerk of
tlie ordnance stores, and liavc cxhil>ite<l their accounts to Congress,
which accounts appear to be reasonable : Therefore, Resolved, that
there be paid out of the public treasury, to the several persons cm-
ployed in collecting arms as aforesaid, the following sums, and the re-
ceiver general is accordingly ordered to pay the said sums, viz. :
to Ebenezer White, the sum of ^I IDs.; to Daniel Hemmenway,
£A 8s. ; to Col. Simeon Spauding, XA 7s. ; to Benjamin Ely, X13 lOs.
lid.— jC-24 4s. lid.
Ordered, That Capt. Holmes be added to the committee last men-
tioned.
Adjourned to eight o'clock, to-morrow morning.
Friday, July 7, 1775.
Capt. Stone, of Framingham, was appointed, in the room of Major
Bliss, on the committee, which were chosen to prepare an answer
to the letter from the Congress of New Hampshire.
Resolved, That Mr. Shillaber have leave to bring in a resolve,
recommending to the committee of the city of Philadelphia to permit
him to export from thence a quantity of flour.
Ordered, That Deacon Bayley, Major Brooks, Mr. Baker, Col.
Grout and Doct. Taylor, be a committee to consider a resolve of the
committee of safety, recommending to this Congress the seizing the
crown officers.
In compliance with a resolve of the committee of safety, recom-
mending that a committee be appointed to draw up, and transmit to
Great Britain, a fair and impartial account of the late battle at
Charlestown, as soon as possible : Ordered, that the said committee
of safety be a committee for that purpose, and that they likewise be a
standing committee for that and the like purposes.
Ordered, That Mr. Wheeler, Capt. Batchelder and Doct. Taylor,
be a committee to consider the petition of Mr. Daniel Murray, and a
letter from Mr. Joseph Reed, secretary to General Washington, on
the subject thereof.^
Ordered, That Deacon Nichols, Mr. Glover and Col. Mitchell, be a
committee to consider a resolve of the committee of safety, relative to
the appointment of a master workman for the blacksmiths.
(1) Daniel Murray, son of Col. Murray, of Rutland, in WorceBter county, applied to General
Washington for permission to join his refugee I'ricnds in Boston, with the females of his father's
family. Mr. Secretary Uecd tiausmittcd the request to Congress, with the opinion of General
Washington, that the subject was more peculiarly williia the jurisdiction of that body than in his
own discretion.
464 THIRD PROVINCIAL CONGRESS. [July 7,
The committee appointed to consider the services of the secretary,
reported. The report was recommitted, and the committee directed
to consider, in particular, his extra services to this time, and the ex-
pense of his clerks, and the said secretary is directed to lay before
this Congress, or some future assembly of this colony, an account of
his future services.
Ordered, That a warrant be made out for Doct. Isaac Foster, as
surgeon of the hospital at Cambridge, and another to Doct. Isaac
Rand, as surgeon of the hospital at Roxbury.
Mr. Shillaber, agreeably to order, presented the following resolve,
which was accepted, viz. : Mr. William Shillaber, of Danvers, a
member of this Congress, having represented to this Congress, that he
has a vessel now at Philadelphia, having there disposed of her cargo,
a schooner called the William, commanded by Samuel Tucker, and
that he apprehends, from such instructions as he has [given] and will
give the said master, that the vessel, if laden with flour, or partly so,
might arrive safe at some port in this colony, and having applied for
the approbation of this Congress, and set forth that he is willing to
risk the same : therefore, Resolved, that this Congress do approve
thereof, and it is hereby recommended to the committee of inspection
at Philadelphia, that they permit the said Capt. Tucker to lade his
vessel as above desired, and sail from that port : provided the same be
not against the resolution of the American Congress, or any resolu-
tion formed in that colony.
The committee appointed to consider the resolve of the committee
of safety relative to a new emission of bills of credit, reported. The
report was accepted, and is as follows, viz. : Whereas, several per-
sons have been employed in the service of this colony, and several
have supplied small articles, whose accounts amount severally to small
sums only, and it appearing to this Congress, that the plates engraved
for impressing or striking off the bills for the payment of the soldiers
in the service of this colony are still sufficient for the striking off a
number of impressions on each plate ; therefore, Resolved, that there
be impressed, or struck off, on the plate containing the engraving for
notes of ten shillings, eighteen shillings and twelve shillings, six hun-
dred and sixty-seven sheets, and no more ; and that there be impress-
ed, or struck off, on the plate for notes of sixteen shillings, fifteen
shillings and nine shillings, six hundred and sixty-seven sheets, and no
more ; and also on the plate for twenty shillings, fourteen shillings,
and six shillings, that there be impressed, or struck off, five hundred
and forty shcety, and no more ; which last number, together with one
1775] THIRD PROVINCIAL CONGRESS. MiT,
hundred and twenty-seven sheets, or impressions, already struck off* on
that plate, and not signed, make the like nund)er of six hundred and
sixty-seven sheets, or impressions, which, together, amount to two
thousand and one sheets, or impressions, each slicet containing forty
shillings, amounting to the sum of c£'400-2, which, together with the sum
of ci'-2o,998, already perfected of those notes, make the sum of X;i(),(H)0-
We also report, that a committee be appointed to agree with Mr.
Revere, or some other suitable person, for the striking olV the above
number of sheets. Also, that a committee be appointed to authenticate
said sheets, when they are struck off.
Ordered, That Deacon Mitchell, Capt. Holmes, and Capt. Stone, of
Framingham, be a committee to agree with some persons to strike off"
the bills, agreeably to the foregoing report.
Ordered, That the chairman of the committee of supplies be direct-
ed to attend this Congress with a copy of such resolves as constitute
their commission.
The committee appointed to consider the petition of Daniel Murray,
&/C. reported. The report was accepted, and is as follows, viz. : The
committee appointed to take into consideration the letter from his
excellency General Washington, to the committee of safety, respecting
the petition of Daniel Murray of Rutland, who has requested leave for
his sister, and two of his brothers, to go into Boston, which petition
the committee of safety have referred to the consideration of this Con-
gress, beg leave to report, that it is their opinion, that the aforemen-
tioned petition ought not to be granted. That the committee of safety
be directed to acquaint his excellency the General, of the resolution of
this house, of the 24th of June last, respecting the permitting of per-
sons to go into Boston, and that it is their opinion, that said resolution
ought not to be receded from in the present case.
Walter Spooner, Esq. was appointed in addition to Col. Richmond,,
to swear the soldiers to be stationed in the county of Bristol.
The committee appointed to consider the report of the committee,
who have been on an embassy to Ticonderoga, reported. The report
was accepted, and is as follows, viz. :
The committee appointed to take under consideration the report of
the committee from Crown point, &c., beg leave to report by way of
resolve, as follows, viz. :
Whereas, it appears to this Congress, that the sum of four hundred
pounds, received by Walter Spooner, Jedediah Foster, and James Sul-
livan, Esqrs., of the receiver general, the 14th of June last, for the use
of this colony, has been expended by them for the purpose for which
59
466 THIRD PROVINCIAL CONGRESS. [July 7,
it was designed by this Congress ; therefore, Resolved, that the said
Walter Spooner, Jedediah Foster, and James Sullivan, Esqrs., be, and
they are hereby discharged, from all demands, the said colony at any
time had upon them for the same, and that the receipts produced by
them be filed in the treasurer's office.
Resolved, That there be paid, out of the public treasury of this col-
ony, to Walter Spooner, Jedediah Foster, and James Sullivan, Es-
quires, the sum of twenty-six pounds three shillings and nine pence,
for the balance due to them, from this colony, for their time, and ex-
penses to Crown point, &i,c., and the receiver general is hereby directed
to pay the same sum accordingly.
Resolved, That there be paid, out of the public treasury of this col-
ony, to Mr. Abijah Merril, the sum of four hundred pounds, to be by
him delivered to Col. Easton, for advance pay to two hundred men at
Crown point and Ticonderoga, and the said Merril to take a receipt of
said Easton therefor, and the receiver general is hereby directed to pay
the same sum accordingly.
Resolved, That there be paid, out of the public treasury of this col-
ony, the sum of two hundred and fifty-two pounds eleven shillings and
one penny halfpenny, to Lieut. William Satterlee, or order, being the
balance of the pay roll of Capt. Herrick's company, from the 3d of
May to the 25th June last, and the receiver general is hereby directed
to pay the same sum accordingly. And the said Herrick and Satterlee
are hereby discharged from all demands which Col. Arnold, or this
province had, for the sum of twenty-three pounds twelve shillings, re-
ceived by said Herrick and Satterlee of said Arnold, for the use of the
company of said Herrick.
Col. Grout was appointed to accompany Mr. Merril to the receiver
general, to know of him if he can pay him the oi'400, agreeably to the
above resolve.
Ordered, That Mr. Shillaber, Capt. White, and Mr. Crane, be a
committee to consider the account of Mr. Edward Mitchell, and any
other accounts that may be rendered of the expense of procuring spears
for the army.
Ordered, That Col. Robinson, Major Brooks, and Deacon Bayley,
be a committee to procure a steward for his excellency General Wash-
ington.
Aflernoon.
Leave of absence was granted to the receiver general, till the begin-
ning of next week.
The committee appointed to consider the letter of Mr. Joseph Hal-
177o.] TITTRD PROVTNCIAr, COXflRKSS 407
let, dated New York, June '^Vt, 1775, reported verbally, that the same
he referred to the comiiiittce of supplies.' The rei)ort was accepted.
Mr. IJatcheiilor was appointed in the room of Mr. Sullivan, to con-
sider what grant was proper to he made for tlie services of the sec-
retary.
Ordered, That Mr. Johnson, Major Pcrly, and Mr. Ilemmcnway,
be a committee to procure stores for depositing the fish, which the
committee of suj)plies may purchase for the use of the colony, either
by hire, or by building new stores, as they may think best.
Ordered, That Mr. Phillips, Mr. Kollock, and Deacon Gould, be a
committee to consider the subject of a letter, this day received from
General Ward, and to inquire of the committee of supplies wiiat pro-
vision is made for supplying the army with the articles [of cloth-
ing] therein mentioned.
Col. Grout informed the Congress that he had accompanied Mr,
Merril to the receiver general's office, and that the receiver general
informed them, that there was not money in the treasury, sufficient to
pay said Merril the sum which the Congress have directed the said
receiver general to pay him.
Ordered, That Col. Dwight, Col. Robinson, and Deacon Williams,
be a committee to prepare a letter to Col. Easton, informing him, that
the state of the treasury is such, that Mr. Merril cannot, at present, be
supplied with the sum of ^400, which this Congress has this day di-
rected the receiver general to pay him.
Ordered, That Capt. Holmes be directed to inquire of Mr. Revere,
how many sheets of notes or bills of credit can be struck off, from the
plates he now has by him, more than six hundred and sixty-seven,
which were directed to be struck off, by a resolve of this Congress, this
day passed.
Resolved, That to-morrow morning, eight o'clock, be assigned for
the consideration of a request made by Col. Danielson, in behalf of
the officers of the army, that they might have a month's pay advanced.
The committee appointed to consider the letters from General
Green, reported. The report was recommitted, and Mr. Robinson
added to the committee.
Leave of absence was granted to Mr. Langdon.
Ordered, That the committee appointed to procure a steward for
General Washington, be directed to procure him likewise two or three
women, for cooks.
<}) The letter wtis in relation to flour, =cnt from (he soiitbcrn colonif: for the army.
468 THIRD PROVINCIAL CONGRESS. [July 7,
Ordered, That the committee appointed to inquire how General
Washington's table should be furnished, be a committee to bring in a
resolve for the purpose of complying with the requisition of General
Washington relative thereto, and that Mr. Hopkins be added to this
committee in the room of Col. Bowers.
Ordered, That the Hon. Major Hawley, Col. Grout and Col. Rob-
inson, be a committee to wait upon General Lee, to know of him what
provision he expects should be made by this Congress for the furnish-
ing his table.
The committee who were appointed to consider what sum should be
granted the secretary for his services, again reported. The report
was accepted, and is as follows, viz. : The committee appointed to
take into consideration the allowance that ought to be made Mr. Sam-
uel Freeman, for his services as secretary of the Congress, to the
present time, beg leave to report, that they find there has been much
business done by the said Freeman in the service of the colony, and
the said Freeman has been obliged to employ several clerks to assist
him, which he agrees to pay ; he has also been at considerable ex-
pense to be furnished with books, paper, ink, quills, and house to hold
his office in, as secretary ; for all which they beg leave to report the
following resolution, viz. :
Resolved, That the receiver general of this colony be, and he hereby
is directed, to pay Mr. Samuel Freeman, out of the public money of
said colony, the sum of thirty pounds eight shillings and six pence, for
his services as secretary to the Congress, and that those further servi-
ces, which he may have to perform, in recording the proceedings of
this Congress, when performed, be exhibited to some future house of
representatives of this province, for their consideration and allowance.
The committee appointed to prepare a letter to Col. Easton, report-
ed the following, which was accepted :
Sir : The committee appointed by the Congress to settle matters at
Ticonderoga, having given you encouragement, that they would send,
by the first opportunity, the =£400 due from this colony, on advance
pay, to the men under your command, it gives us pain that we are
obliged to say, we have not the whole of the money in the treasury ;
but you may depend, Sir, that so soon as the notes can be struck off,
and properly authenticated, the same will be immediately remitted to
you. The embarrassments under which the province labors, will, we
[trust,] apologize for our not being ready by the first opportunity.
We rely upon you, Sir, that you will do all in your power to make the
1775] THIRD PROVINCIAL CONGRESS. 469
troops under your command easy, as the good of the colony so much
depends thereon.
To Col. Easton, at Ticondcroga.
The committee appointed to consider some method to prevent sup-
plying our enemies with provisions, &-c., reported. The report was
accepted, and ordered to be printed in the newspapers, and is as fol-
lows, viz. :
Whereas, complaints have been made to this Congress, of the in-
habitants of some of the sea port towns frequently supplying our ene-
mies with butter and cheese, fresh provisions, &,c., also, [it is] sus-
pected, that intelligence has been given them, therefore. Resolved, that
it be, and hereby is recommended, to the committees of safety, corres-
pondence and inspection, and where there are no such committees, to
the selectmen of the sea port towns and districts in this colony, that
they, forthwith, exert themselves to prevent any person or persons from
supplying our enemies with any kind of provision whatsoever, or intel-
ligence. And it is further recommended to the committees or selects
men as aforesaid, of each town and district, not to suffer any vessel or
boat of any kind, to go from the shore on board any vessel or vessels
of any size whatsoever, in the service of our enemies, without first ob-
taining a permit, in writing, of the committees or selectmen aforemen-
tioned, for that purpose, and that no boats be suffered to land from
men of war, tenders, or any other vessels employed to distress the sea
coasts and trade of this country, without permit obtained as aforesaid.
The committee appointed to consider the account of Col. Mitchell,
relative to the expense of providing spears, reported. The report was
ordered to lie on the table till Col. Mitchell produced a receipt from
General Thomas, or the committee of safety, for the delivery of them.
The committee appointed to inquire of the committee of supplies
what provision they had made for shirts, breeches, &-c., reported. The
report was accepted, and is as follows, viz. : The committee appoint-
ed to make inquiry of the committee of supplies, what provision they
have made of the articles of shirts, breeches, stockings and shoes, and
consider whether it is requisite to take any further care to procure
those articles, have attended the service, and beg leave to recommend,
that persons be immediately despatched to the neighboring counties, to
collect such a proportion of the above mentioned articles from the sev-
eral towns in said counties, as may be judged proper.
Ordered, That the committee who brought in the above report, be a
committee to bring in a list of those towns from whence the articles
470 THIRD PROVINCIAL CONGRESS. [July 8,
above mentioned ought to be procured, and the proportion each town
shall supply.
[The committee appointed to consider the subject of supplying the
island of Nantucket with provisions, reported. The report was ac-
cepted, and is as follows, viz. :]
Whereas, by the act of parliament called the restraining act, the in-
habitants of Nantucket are exempted from the restrictions in said act
mentioned. And whereas, the Continental Congress, on the 17th of
May last, took the matter under consideration, and thought it expedi-
ent, to prevent the Newfoundland fishery from being supplied with
provisions through Nantucket, to prohibit the exportation of provisions
from any of the colonies to that island, excepting from this : And
whereas, the inhabitants of Nantucket have by them, large quantities
of provisions in their stores, and are fitting out a large fleet of whaling
vessels, whereby they intend to avail themselves of the act aforemen-
tioned, and the provisions they have by them may be unnecessarily ex-
pended, in foreign and not domestic consumption : therefore. Resolved,
that no provisions or necessaries of any kind be exported from any
part of this colony to the island of Nantucket, until the inhabitants of
said island shall have given full and sufficient satisfaction to this Con-
gress, or some future house of representatives, that the provisions they
have now by them, have not been, and shall not be, expended in for-
eign, but for domestic consumption. And the several committees of
correspondence, inspection and safety, in their respective towns, are
required to see that this resolve be not contravened.
Adjourned to eight o'clock, to-morrow morning.
Saturday, July 8, 1775.
A list of surgeons examined by a committee appointed for that pur-
pose, was exhibited to Congress, and warrants ordered to be made out
agreeably thereto.
Ordered, That Major Ilawley, Major Bliss, and Col. Gerrish, be a
committee to inspect the commissions of the committee of safety and
the committee of supplies, and report to this Congress, what is expedi-
ent to be done relative thereto, more especially in the recess of the
Congress.
Ordered, That Capt. Stone be appointed in the room of Mr. Sulli-
van, on the committee who were directed to bring in a resolve, explan-
atory to the resolve of Congress relative to the refugees.
A petition of several field officers in the army, was read, relative to
1775.] THIRD PROVINCIAL CONGRESS. 471
the appointment of commissaries for the regiment from the county of
Essex.
Ordered, That the petitioners liave leave to withdraw their petition.
Ordered, That Capt. Holmes, Mr. Fox, and Mr. Perry, be a com-
mittee to consider a petition from a number of the inhabitants of
Frenchman's Bay, [for supplies of provisions.]
Ordered, That Mr. Fessenden, Mr. Walker, and Capt. White, be a
committee to examine and consider all accounts that may be rendered
to this Congress, relative to the expenses of procuring axes and shovels
for the use of the army.
A committee of this Congress, agreeably to their appointment, re-
ported the following resolve, which was accepted, and ordered to be
printed in the several newspapers.^
Ordered, That Mr. Ilayward, repair to the receiver general, at Stow,
and direct him to attend this Congress, immediately.
Ordered, That Capt. Carpenter be, and hereby is, appointed to de-
sire Col. Timothy Walker to pay what public monies he has in his
hands, into the treasury, immediately, and the committee of supplies
are directed to employ some person to be sent express to Col. Walker,
for this purpose.
Ordered, That Mr. Woodbridge, Col. Robinson, and Deacon Nich-
ols, be a committee to consider a proposal of exempting the soldiers in
the army from paying the postage of letters, and to report thereon.
Ordered, That Doct. Taylor, Major Brooks, and Mr. Hall, be a
committee to examine and consider an account of Major Bliss ; and
also, an account of Doct. Church.
Ordered, That Major Fuller, Mr. Hall, and Col. Robinson, be a
committee to countersign and number the new emission of bills, who
are likewise empowered and directed to superintend the impression of
said bills.
The committee appointed to bring in a resolve for the purpose of
complying with the requisitions of General Washington, reported the
following order, which was accepted, viz. :
Ordered, That Col. Robinson, Major Brooks, and Deacon Bailey,
be a committee to make inquiry forthwith, for some ingenious, active,
and faithful man, to be recommended to General Washington, as a
steward; likewise, to procure and recommend to him some capable
(1) No resolve corrcspnnding to tliut mentioned in tlic record is preserved on file, or was publish-
ed in the newspapers of Cambridge, VVatortown, or Worcester. The entry on the journal is proba-
bly intended to refer to the resolve for restraining the sale of spirituous liquors, passed on the same
day,
472 THIRD PROVINCIAL CONGRESS. [July 8,
woman, suitable to act in the place of a house-keeper, and one or more
good female servants.
The report of the committee on the account of Mr. Daniel Taylor,
was read, and ordered to lie upon the table.
The committee on the petition of Col. Jonathan Brewer, reported.
The report was accepted, and is as follows, viz. :
Resolved, That the prayer of Col. Brewer's petition be so far grant-
ed, that said Col. Brewer be allowed to recruit men sufficient to com-
plete his regiment, or so far as he can complete his said regiment in
twenty days, he not to enlist any person as a soldier who shall not
furnish himself with a good and sufficient fire-arm.
Resolved, That three o'clock, in the afternoon, be assigned, to con-
sider the expediency of appointing a surgeon general for the Massachu-
setts forces.
The committee appointed to consider the artificers' accounts, report-
ed the following resolve on Mr, Clark's account.
Resolved, That the receiver general be, and he hereby is directed to
pay to Mr. Matthew Clark, or order, the sum of nine pounds six shil-
lings and six pence, in full discharge of his account for time and mate-
rials, in repairing boats for the use of this colony.
[The] order of the day [was] moved for.
Ordered, That Major Hawley bring in a resolve for the payment of
a month's pay to the officers of the army, as soon as provision can be
made therefor.
The committee on the account of Major Bliss, reported. The re-
port was accepted, and is as follows, viz. :
Resolved, That Major John Bliss be allowed, and paid out of the
public treasury of this colony, the sum of =£5 7s, in full discharge of the
above account, and the receiver general of this colony, is hereby or-
dered to pay the aforesaid sum of .£5 7s, to the said John Bliss, or or-
der, accordingly.
Major Fuller, agreeably to order, brought in the following resolve.
Resolved, That there be paid out of the public treasury, the sum of
twelve shillings to Mr. John Cook, for the use that Mr. Paul Revere
made of his house, whilst he was striking off the colony notes therein.
The committee appointed to consider a proposal for exempting the
soldiers of the army from the postage of letters, reported. The report
was ordered to subside.
Major Fuller brought in a resolve, directing what notes each of the
committee should sign, which was accepted, and is as follows, viz. :
Resolved, That Abraham Fuller, Mr. Stephen Hall, Jun,, and CoK
1775.] THIRD PROVINCIAL CONGRESS. i::{
Robinson, tlic comniitlec .•i|)i)oint((l (o coiintcisinn tlie colony notes,
now ordered to be struck off, countersign .uid nunibc-r said notes of tlic
following denominations, viz. : said Abraham Fnllcr countersign and
nuniber tlie notes of eighteen sliillings, twelve shillings, and ten shil-
lings; said Stephen Hall countersign and number the notes of sixteen
shillings, fifteen shillings, and nine shillings ; said Col. Robinson coun-
tersign and number the notes of twenty shillings, fourteen shilling.s,
and six shillings.
Afternoon.
The report of the committee on the letter of General Green was
read, and recommitted to Col. Robinson, Major Brooks, and Col.
Gerrish.
Major Ilawley, agreeably to appointment, reported the following re-
solve, relative to advance pay to the officers of the army, which was
accepted.
Whereas, application has been made lately to this Congress, in be-
half of the commissioned officers of that part of the continental army
before Boston, raised by this colony, that, for the relief of the present
necessities of the said officers, there might be immediately advanced
and paid to them, one full month's pay, according to the establishment
lately made by Congress for the army; and the Congress, having
taken the said application into due consideration, do Resolve, that it
is expedient and proper, that there should be advanced and paid unto
the said commissioned officers, one month's pay, in notes or bills of
credit of this colony, as soon as provision can be made therefor by a
further emission of notes or bills of credit, than has been already or-
dered by Congress.
The committee appointed to consider how stores may be procured
for the reception of fish, reported. The report was ordered to sub-
side.
The committee appointed to agree with Mr. Paul Revere, for strik-
ing off a new emission of colony notes, reported. The report was ac-
cepted, and is as follows, viz. :
Resolved, That there be eighteen hundred seventy-four sheets im-
pressed and struck off, according to the resolve of this Congress, passed
the 7th instant. And that Mr. Paul Revere be employed to do said
service, at the rate of six shillings for each hundred sheets so struck
off, provided said Revere find ink, and house room, and procure suit-
able paper, the colony paying only the prime cost of said paper.
[The] committee [was] instructed to direct Mr. Revere to alter the
date of the notes to July 8th, if it can be done.
60
474 THIRD PROVINCIAL CONGRESS. [July 8,
Ordered, That Mr. Hall, Capt. Batchelder, and Mr. Ellis, be a com-
mittee to consider a resolve of the committee of safety, recommending
to this Congress to make an establishment for four master armorers.
Ordered, That Mr. Samuel Sanger, Mr. Johnson, and Deacon Wy-
man, be added to the committee who were appointed to give passes for
removing the poor of Boston, and Charlestown, to the towns in the
county of Worcester, and that Major Fuller be excused from serving
on said committee.
Ordered, That Capt. Stone, Capt. Brown, and Col. Smith, be a
committee to revise the resolves of Congress relative to the poor of
Boston and Charlestown, and report what they think proper to be done
thereon.
Agreeably to the recommendation of the committee of safety, Re-
solved, that Mr. Jonathan Hastings be, and he hereby is appointed, post-
master for the town of Cambridge, in the room of Mr. James Winthrop.
The committee appointed to examine several accounts of the expense
of procuring axes and shovels, reported. The reports were accepted,
and Mr. Wood bridge was appointed to bring in a proper resolve for
the paying of the several accounts, agreeably thereto.
The committee appointed to prepare an answer to the letter from
the New Hampshire Congress, reported the following, which was ac-
cepted, and ordered to be transcribed, authenticated, and sent foward,
viz. :
Gentlemen : We received your favor of the 3d instant, by Mr.
Wheelock and Col. Beetle, and much rejoice to find, that the honora-
ble Congress of New Hampshire, and the good people of your govern-
ment in general, are so warmly attached to the common cause.
We highly approve of Mr. Dean's being sent to the Continental
Congress, more especially as he is so well acquainted in Canada, and
lately came from thence, and we think it is a matter of great importance
to New York, and all the New England colonies in particular, and to
America in general, to satisfy our friends in Canada, that we are truly
friendly to them, and also effectually to prevent our inveterate enemies
there from making depredations on our frontiers : and as we have the
greatest confidence in the wisdom and vigilance of that honorable
body, therefore, we think it most advisable to wait their determina-
tion. We are, with great respect, gentlemen.
Your friends in the common cause.
Hon Congress of the Colony of New Hampshire,
1775] TFIIRD PROVFNC'FAL (( hNrjRRSS. 17.-,
The comiinttco apjjointod io (.oiisidcr the sul)jecl ol' :i Iflter froiii
General Green, reported. The report wa.s accepted, and is as fol-
lows, viz. :
The Congress having taken into consideration the dilliculties and
troubles which have [arisen] and daily are arising in our camps, by reason
of divers evil-minded per.sons selling spirituous liquors, by which means,
it is not in the power of the officers, although a constant exertion has
been hitherto made, to prevent the same, in order to keep that steady
government in camp so absolutely necessary; therefore. Resolved, that
if any licensed person shall, after the I5th instant, presume to sell any
spirituous liquors to any soldier, without a permit from'the captain, or
commanding officer of the company he belongs to, specifying the quan-
tity, he shall, for the first offence, forfeit his license, and for the second,
suffer such punishment as shall be inflicted on him or her, by a court
martial ; and any person who is not a licensed person, or whose license
is without the limits of said camp, [who] shall presume to retail any
spirituous liquor to any of the troops, shall suffer for the first offence,
the penalties inflicted by a court martial : this resolve not to extend to
any person who shall have a license or permit from the general or
commanding officer.
The committee appointed to bring in a list of such towns as might
supply the army with shirts, breeches, &c., reported. The report was
recommitted for introducing the form of a receipt.
The committee appointed to consider the petition of the inhabitants
of Frenchman's Bay, reported. The report was accepted, and is as
follows, viz, .
The committee appointed to consider the petition of Thomas Don-
nell and others, of Frenchman's Bay, have attended that service, and
beg leave to report by way of resolve.
Whereas, Mr. Philip Hodgkins has applied to this Congress for a
supply of provisions for the inhabitants of Frenchman's Bay, and beino-
at a great distance from the committees of correspondence of that
place, therefore. Resolved, that it be recommended, and it is, by this
Congress, accordingly recommended, to the governor and company of
the colony of Connecticut, that they suffer the inhabitants of French-
man's Bay to purchase such provisions in said colony as they stand in
need of
Major Ilawley, who was appointed to bring in a resolve explanatory
of the resolve of this Congress relative to the refugees, reported. The
report was accepted, and is as follows, viz. :
Whereas, a certain resolve was made and pas.sed, on the 21st day of
476 THIRD PROVINCIAL CONGRESS. [July 9,
June last, respecting the improvement of the estates of several persons
who have fled to General Gage, in manner as is expressed in the said
resolve, and it being made to appear to this Congress that the said re-
solve is taken in such a sense, in divers parts of this colony, as to make
it necessary, that some explanation of the said resolve should be made
by this Congress, it is therefore. Resolved, that henceforward the said
resolve ought not to be construed to extend to any estates of such per-
sons, excepting such estates as are left unimproved and void of any
occupant, or possessor, and that no other estate of such person ought
to be treated in the manner prescribed in the said resolve, until they
shall be regularly indicted and tried for their supposed offences.
Ordered to be printed in the several papers.
Resolved, That eight o'clock to-morrow morning be assigned for
the consideration of the expediency of appointing a surgeon general of
the Massachusetts army.
Ordered, That the account books of Major Barber be committed to
the care of the committee of supplies.
Adjourned to Sunday morning, eight o'clock.
Sunday, July 9, 1775.
The committee appointed to consider a resolve relative to seizing
the crown officers, reported by way of resolve. The report was re-
committed, and the secretary was added to the committee, and the
committee [were] directed to report by way of letter, and to insert a
clause relative to the desire of this Congress, that the Continental
Congress would adjourn nearer the seat of action.
The committee appointed to consider a resolve of the committee of
Bafety, recommending the appointment of four master armorers, re-
ported. The report was ordered to lie on the table, till the committee
for revising the commission of the committee of safety, and the com-
mission of the committee of supplies, reported.
Ordered, That Mr. Gill, Mr. Pickering and Mr. Woodbridge, be a
committee to consider a letter from Mr. John Scollay, relative to the
poor of the town of Boston.^
(I) Tlio letter of Mr. Juliii Scollay, with the paper enclosed, follows :
*' BosTo:?, July 8th, i775.
" Sin: — His excellency the governor having, hy Mr. Secretary Fluckor, sent a message to the se-
lectmen, overseers of the poor, and committee of donations, respecting the removal of the poor,
and other inhabitants of the town of Boston, they attended the same, and, after deliberating on the
matter, presented to Mr. Secretary their doings thereon, a co])y of which is here enclosed, to which
his excellency has been pleased to accede."
As there has, of late, been an interruption of the inhabitants, with their effects, passing out of
the to.wn into the country, perhaps the matter may have dropped with you, and proper accommoda-
ITT.V] THIRD I'llOVINCIAL CONGRESS. 477
Onlind, 'I'luit the Secretary, Doct. Taylor and Major Brooks, be a
coniinittee to confer witli Mr. Jolui Lane, on the difliculties which at-
tend the .snpplyiiifr the Indians at Fahnouth, Cajico Cay.
li(:si>lrc(/, That the Hon. Jedediali I'rehle, and the Hon. lOnocli
Freeman, Esq., be, and herel)y arc empowered, to snpply the Indians
of the Penobscot tribe, with any (piantity of goods, not exceeding the
vahie of three hnndred pounds, and to draw on the receiver general
for tlie same, who is liereby directed to pay such drafts, in three
months after tlic date of this resolve, and to take furs and skins of the
said Indians, in exchange, on the account of this colony, they to be
accountable for their proceedings.
Ordered, That Deacon Cheever be a committee to bring in a
resolve, empowering the committee of supplies to furnish General
Washington with such articles of household furniture, as he has wrote
to said committee for.
lions may not have been provided for tlio reception of any more of tlie poor of the town than have
already left it; and as tlie state of the inhabitants is really distressing, we shall bo glad tliat imme-
diate attention be given to the above, and that we, as soon as may be, know your resolutions there-
on. As many of these poor unhappy people are not in a condition to be removed by land carria''e
therefore, we should think that the place of their destination might be as near water carriage as
may be convenient : if it would not be thought assuming, wo would beg leave to suggest the towns
of Salem or Marblehcad, as projjer places for the above purpose.
His excellency does expect, that whatever vessels or other carriages may be employed in this
business, ample security be given that they shall be safe from any detention, and that they with
the persons that occupy them, bo permitted to return without hindrance or molestation."
"I am, in behalf of the committee. Sir, your most humble servant,
JOHN SCOLLAY, Chairman.''
James Warren, Es^.
" The selectmen, overseers of the poor, and committee of donations, having received a message
from his excellency the governor, by Mr. Secretary Flucker, respecting the removal of the poor
and other inhabitants of the town, and attended the same, with all proper deference and respect
beg leave to rojiresent: That the number of the poor in the alms-house, amounts to about two hun-
dred, of which they suppose that one hundred and sixty or one hundred and seventy, may be re-
moved, for which the selectmen, overseers, and committee aforesaid, will make all proper provis-
ion, his excellency providing boats and carriages for transportation by water or land, as may be
thought best, and allowing such quantities of provisions, bedding, clothing and medicine as may be
necessary and proper. The few unhappy persons that may be unable to be removed must be left
and are earnestly recommended to his excellency's well known humanity."
"As to the poor, and other inhabitants of the town, who, if not already, will soon be reduced to
the greatest distress, the selectmen, overseers and committee apprehend, that by far the greatest
part, if not the whole, would immediately remove themselves, with the small assistance they
might receive from the committee of donations, provided they could obtain his excellency's per-
mission."
" The selectmen, overseers and committee, previous to their removal, beg for leave to write to
such persons in the country as may be empowered to take care of, and provide for the poor, that
these destitute persons may find such assistance and relief as their particular circumstances may
xequiie."
478 THIRD PROVINCIAL CONGRESS. [July 9,
Afternoon.
Resolved, That the consideration of the allowance proper to be
made to Mr. Fovvle for the use of his house, by several committees of
this Congress, be referred to the general assembly.
The committee on the letter of Mr. John Scollay, of Boston, re-
ported. The report was ordered to lie, for further consideration.
The committee appointed to prepare a list of such towns, as it
would be expedient to apply to, for shirts, breeches, &c,, again report-
ed. The report was accepted, and is as follows, viz. :
Whereas, there is now a very pressing demand for some articles of
clothing, more especially of shirts, breeches, stockings and shoes, in
the army raised by the colony of the Massachusetts Bay, and there is
dano-er of very mischievous consequences, from a delay of supplying
the same : Resolved, that the inhabitants of the respective towns and
districts in the counties specified in a list hereunto annexed, be most
earnestly desired, as soon as possible, to procure such a number of
each of the articles of shirts, breeches and stockings, as are affixed to
their said towns and districts respectively, of a serviceable quality, and
as many good shoes, as they can obtain, and deliver the same to the
person or persons now to be appointed by this Congress to collect
them, who are directed to give receipts to the owners, at the prices for
which they shall mutually agree, keeping an account thereof, in the
form following :
The day of 1775. Received of , — shirts,
at — ; — pair of breeches at — ; — pair of stockings at — ; — pairs
of shoes at — : amounting to the sum of , for the service of
the colony of the Massachusetts Bay ; which the receiver general is
directed, in forty days after the date hereof, to pay to the said ,
or order, in notes, or bills of credit of this colony, and the receiver
general is hereby required to pay the same accordingly. And that
this business may be effected with the greatest expedition, the select-
men and committees of correspondence in the several towns and dis-
tricts beforementioned, are hereby most earnestly requested, to afford
the utmost aid in their power, to the person or persons appointed as
aforesaid, in collecting said articles. And those persons are further
directed to take such measures, as will enable them to ascertain the
price of each article, on its arrival, and to contract, at a reasonable
rate, with suitable waggoners and teamsters to transport the effects,
when procured, with great despatch, to the committee of supplies, at
Watertown, giving them a certificate of the sums to be paid for such
1775] THIRD TROVINCIAL CONGRESS. 479
service, for which sum, said committee are hereby directed to draw on
the public treasury, in favor of any thus contracted with, or tlieir or-
ders, and the receiver general is accordingly directed to pay the same.
Cummittcc. — SurroMv : Mr. Daniel Vose, Milton; Mr. Abncr Ellis,
Dcdhani ; Deacon Jabez Fisher, Wrcnlham.
Essex : Major Asa Perley, Bojford ; Col. Daniel Thurston, Brad-
ford; Major A. Fuller, Middkton.
Mii)ULi;scx : Mr. Peter Bent, Marlborough ; Capt. Timothy Walk-
er, Wilmington; Mr. Israel Hobart, Townshcnd ; Mr. Samuel Sprague,
Stoncham.
Plymouth : Mr. Ebenezer Thompson, Halifax; Col. Joseph Cush-
ing, Ilanovcr; Mr. George Partridge, Duxbunj.
BinsTOL : Mr. Thomas Durfce, Freetown ; Capt. Benjamin King,
Kaynham ; Benjamin Aikin, Esq., Dartmouth.
Worcester : Mr. David Bancroft, Worcester ; Mr. Joseph Wheeler,
Harvard; Col. Jonathan Grout, Petersham.
Barnstable: Col. Joseph Otis, Barnstable; Col. N. Freeman,
Sandwich; Col. Elisha Cobb, Wellfleet.
Dukes County : James Athorne, Esq.
Resolved, That the receiver general be, and he hereby is directed,
to pay Doct. Benjamin Church, Jr., or order, the sum of <£34 os. 2d.
in full discharge of his account of expenses of himself and servant,
on a journey to Philadelphia, in May last.
Ordered, That Mr. Gill, Mr. Phillips and Doct. Taylor, be a com-
mittee to provide a dinner on the 19th instant, for themselves and the
clergy.
Ordered, That Mr. Kollock, Doct. Taylor and Deacon Nichols, be
a committee to get the resolves relative to procuring shirts, breeches,
&c., printed, and dispersed, one to each town mentioned in the sched-
ule, and one to each of the committee.
The committee appointed to bring in an additional resolve relative
to the poor of Boston, reported. The report was accepted, and is as
follows, viz. :
Whereas, it appears that some towns in this colony have a larger
number of the poor of the towns of Boston and Charlestown, than
has been heretofore assigned them, and more than they are willing to
retain :
Resolved, That it be recommended to the selectmen of those towns,
to cause such poor to be removed to some town, that shall not have
480 THIRD PROVINCIAL CONGRESS. [July 10,
the proportion heretofore assigned, or shall be willing to receive them,
and, if convenient, to those of such towns that said poor may choose ;
provided said poor are possessed of a certificate from either of the
selectmen, or overseers of the poor, of the towns of Boston or
Charlestown, showing that they were inhabitants of either of those
towns, on the first of March last; and the selectmen, or overseers of
the poor of the towns qualified as aforesaid, to which the before men-
tioned poor may be conveyed, with a certificate as above prescribed,
are requested to receive, and make provision for the same, as has been
before directed : all reasonable charges attending such removal to be
paid by this colony.
Ordered, That Mr. Kollock, Mr. Batchelder and Deacon Plympton,
be a committee to bring in a resolve, for the purpose of supplying the
Penobscot Indians with a small quantity of gunpowder.
Resolved, That the selectmen of the town of Watertown be, and
hereby are empowered and directed, to take into their custody one
Daniel Green, now in this town, who was wounded and taken a pris-
oner the 19th of April last, and convey him to the jail in Concord,
there to be confined till the further order of this Congress, or some
future house of assembly of this colony.
Adjourned to Monday morning, eight o'clock.
Monday, July 10, 1775.
[The committee appointed to bring in a resolve for supplying the
Penobscot Indians with gunpowder, reported. The report was ac-
cepted, and is as follows, viz. :]
Whereas, application has been made to this Congress, by Capt.
John Lane, agent for the Penobscot tribe of Indians, for a small quan-
tity of powder, for supplying said Indians : therefore. Resolved, that
the committee of supplies is hereby directed to deliver, out of the
public stores of this colony, to the said John Lane, twenty-five pounds
of powder, for the use aforesaid, taking said Lane's receipt therefor, to
deliver the same to General Preble and Col. Enoch Freeman, on ac-
count of this colony ; and said committee are hereby directed to re-
place the same again, as soon as may be, from some town in this col-
ony, (if they judge it necessary,) that can best spare the same.
Ordered, That the warrants for surgeons, adjutant generals and
quarter master generals, be committed to the committee of safety to
be delivered.
Ordered, That Deacon Baker bring in a resolve, directing the re-
ceiver general to pay Mr. Hastings, for his services, as door-keeper.
1775] THIRD PROVINCIAL CONGRESS. 481
Ordered, That llie letter from John Scollay, Esq , [relating to the
poor] of Boston, and the paper accompanying it, be put into the hantla
of the committee of safety.
Ordered, 'V\v.\\ the President, Doct. Church and Mr. Gerry, he a
committee to prepare an answer to a letter this day received from Gen-
eral Lee, and that II o'clock be assigned for the choice of some per-
son to attend General Lee, on an interview with General Burgoyne.'
Ordered, That Mr. Pickering, Mr. Spear and Mr. Phillips, be a
committee to examine a number of letters this day laid before the
Congress, brought from London by Capt. Folger.
Resolved, That it be, and it is hereby ordered, tliai the committee
of supplies immediately furnish General Washington with ten good
horses, with saddles and bridles, for the public use.
Ordered, That Mr. Batchelder count and sort the votes for a person
to attend General Lee on an interview with General Burgoyne. Mr.
(I) The following is the letter from Gen. Lee :
Head Quarters, July the 10th, 1775.
"General Lee presents his respects to the president and gentlemen of the Provincial Congress of
Massachusetts, and submits to their perusal a letter which he yesterday received from General Bur-
goyne, in answer to one which was read and approved of by the delegates of this province and
other members of the Continental Congress. He begs leave to receive their commands with re-
spect to the proposed interview. If they approve of it, he shall he glad to accept of it ; if they
disapprove, he shall reject it; but if they approve of it, he must request that they will depute
some one gentleman of their body to accompany General Lee, and be witness of the conversation.
He desires their answer immediately, as he has engaged to inform Gen. Burgoyne by four o'clock
this afternoon, whether the interview is to take place. He shall likewise be much obliged to the
gentlemen, if they will return the letter — but if they choose to take a copy, he can have no objec-
tion."
On the arrival of General Burgoyne in Boston, General Lee addressed a letter to that officer, ex-
pressing warm feelings of personal regard for his former companion in arms, and explaining his
views of the rights of the Americans, and their determination and power to maintain them. Gen-
eral Burgoyne, in reply, proposed a meeting. "Above ail," he says, " I should find an interview
happy if it should induce such explanations as might tend in their consequences to peace. I feel,
in common with all around me, for the unhappy people of this country : they foresee not the dis-
tress that is impending over them. I know Great Britain is ready to open her arms upon the first
overture of accommodation. I know she is equally resolute to maintain her original rights, and if
the war proceeds, your one hundred and fifty thousand men will not be a match for her power."
The proposed interview was declined in the following note :
Cambridge, Head QfiRTERs, July 11, 1775.
" Genera! Lee's compliments to General Burgoyne — would be extremely happy in an interview-
he so kindly proposed— but as he perceives that General Burgoyne has already made up his mind on
this great subject ; and as it is impossible that he, General Lee, should ever alter his opinion, he
is apprehensive that the interview might create those jealousies and suspicions so natural in a peo-
ple struggling in the dearest of nil causes, that of their liberty, property, wives, children, and fu-
ture generations. He mui-t, therefore, defer the happiness of embracing a man whom he most sin-
cerely loves, until the subversion of the present tyrannical ministry and system, which he is persuaded
must be in a few months, as ho knows Great Britain cannot stand the contest. He be"? General
Burgoyne will send the letters which his aid de camp has for him. If Gardiner is aid de ramp, he
desires his love to him."
61
482 THIRD PROVINCIAL CONGRESS. [July 10,
Batclielder having attended that service, reported, that Mr. Elbridge
Gerry was chosen.
Ordered, That Col. Porter, Doct. Taylor and Major Brooks, be a
committee, whose business it shall be, in conjunction with the committee
of safety, to make thorough inquiry into the subject matter of a letter
this day received from General Washington, [relating to reenforce-
ments for the army.] And that the committee be directed to confer
with General Washington on the subject of his letter, and particularly
inform him of the number of men we had generally estimated in the
Massachusetts forces, from the returns of the general officers, from
the money paid out of the treasury, for a month's advance pay to the
soldiers, and from the provision made for billeting the said forces. ^
(1) The following is the letter of General Washington mentioned in the text, addressed to the
Tresidcnt of Congress :
Head Quarters, Cambridge, July 9, 1775.
" Sir : — After much difficulty and delay, I have procured such returns of the state of the army as
will enable us to form ajudgment of its strength. It is with great concern 1 find it far inadequate
to our general expectations and the duties wliich may be required of it. The number of men fit
for duty in the forces raised in this province, including all the out posts and artillery, does not
amount to nine thousand. The troops raised in the other colonies are more complete ; but yet
fall short of their establishment. So that upon the whole, I cannot estimate the present army at
more than fourteen thousand five hundred men capable of duty."
" [ have the satisfaction to find the troops, both in camp and quarters, very healthy ; so that the
deficiency must arise from the regiments never having been filled up to the establisliment, and the
number of men on furlough : but the former is much most considerable. Under all these circum-
Btances I yesterday called a council of war ; and, enclosed, I send you an extract of our determi-
nations, so fur as they respect the province of Massacliusetts Bay."
"Your own prudence will suggest the necessity of secrecy on this subject, as we have the utmost
reason to think the enemy suppose our numbers much greater than they are : an error which it is
not our interest to remove."
" The great extent of our lines, and the uncertainty which may be the point of attack, added to
the necessity of immediate support, have induced me to order that horses, ready saddled, should be
kept at several posts, in order to bring the most speedy intelligence of any movement of the
enemy."
" For this purpose I should be glad that ten horses might bo provided as soon as possible."
" I have the honor to be. Sir, your most obedient and very humble servant,
GEORGE WASHINGTON."
" P. S. As I am informed the Congress proposes to rise immediately, I should be glad to know
what committees are left, or upon whom the executive business devolves. G. W >-,"
"At a Councml of War, held at Head Quarters, July 9, 1775. — Present : Ilis excellency General
Washington, Generals Ward, Lee, Putnam, Thomas, Heath, Green, Gates."
" His excellency proposed to the consideration of the council — What number of troops may be ne-
cessary for the present service in and near Boston, to defend the posts already occupied, against the
force supposed to be employed against us ?"
" Upon which it was agreed, that the army for I lie above purpose ought to consist of at least 22,000
men."
" Ae it appears by the returns now made, that the number of cirective men is far short of the
above estimate, a question was proposed, vi/. :"
" In what manner this deficiency should be supplied?"
"And it was unanimously agreed, that it ought to be done by sending an officer from each company
l77.->.] THIRD PROVINCIAL CONGRESS. 48'.i
The committee appoiiilcd to |>roi);ire a letter to General Loc, re-
porto«l. Tlic report was accepted, and ordered to lie aiillieiitica(<'«l,
and sent forward to General Lee, by Doct. Cliurcli, Doct. 'J'a3lor and
Mr. Gerry, a committee for that purpose.
Sir : — The Congress have perused the letter from General Bur-
goyne, which you was kind enough to submit to their inspection.
They can have no objection to the proposed interview, from a want of
the highest confidence in the wisdom, discretion and integrity of Gen-
eral Lee, but beg leave to suggest, that, as the confidence of the peo-
ple in their General, is so essentially necessary, to the well conducting
the enterprize in which we are engaged, and as a people contending for
their liberties are naturally disposed to jealousy, and not inclined to
make the most favorable constructions of the motives of conduct
which they are not fully acquainted with, whether such an interview
might not have a tendency to lessen the influence, which the Congress
would wish to extend, to the utmost of their power, to facilitate and
succeed the operations of war.
The Congress, agreeably to your request, have, to prevent, as far as
we are able, any disagreeable consequences, which may arise from the
jealousy of the people on such an occasion, appointed Mr. Elbridge
Gerry to attend you at the proposed interview, if you shall think proper
to proceed in it , and as they do not think themselves authorized to
counteract the general's inclination, they would submit it to his opin-
ion, whether the advice of the council of war might not be taken in a
matter of such apparent delicacy.
To the honorable General Lee.
Ordered, That Col. Mitchell, Capt. Batchelder, and Deacon Nich-
ols, be a committee to consider the circumstances of the town of Hull,
and report what is best to be done.
Ordered, That Mr. Phillips, Deacon Nichols, and Capt. Stone, be a
committee to consider the situation of the public stock of powder, and
report what shall be done with it.
ill the forces raised in Massacliusetts Bay, to recruit tlie regiments to which they respectively he-
long, to the estalilishnient fixed hy the Provincial Congress, the colonies of Rhode Island and Con-
necticut being already engaged in recruiting. And that, in the mean time, his excellency the Geu
eral do apply to the Provincial Congress of this province, for their assistance, in procuring a tem-
porary reenforcemoht, suhject to the same military rules as the army now raised, inasmuch as the
present extent of lines, and great probahility of an early attack, render such reenforccment indis-
pensably necessary."
484 THIRD PROVINCIAL CONGRESS. [July 10,
Afternoon.
Resolved, That the resolve which passed yesterday, relative to Dan-
iel Green, be reconsidered, and that Capt. Stone be appointed to bring
in a resolve with regard to him.
Ordered, That Mr. Baker, Mr. Kollock, and Capt. Parker, be a
committee to consider an account of Mr. John Gill.
Ordered, That Capt. Vose, Mr. Jewett, and Mr. Bigelow, be a com-
mittee to consider an account of Mr. Moses Lammon, for a gun sold
Barnabas Evans.
Ordered, That the committee for signing the bills, &c., be directed
to sit, and despatch the business, that the soldiers may be paid off, ac-
cording to the order of Congress.
Ordered, That Capt. Stone, Mr. Bigelow, and Capt. Harnden, be a
committee to consider the account of Mr. Isaac Bissell.
Resolved, That the committee of supplies, be directed to write to the
selectmen of Charlestown and Walpole, in the government of New
Hampshire, and desire them to inform them, what cannon there are in
those towns belonging to this colony, and the said committee are to
take into their custody such as they shall find to be the property of this
colony.
Resolved, That Mr. Stephen Hall be on the committee in the room
of Doct. Gunn, to sign the colony notes.
Mr. Israel Nichols' account was passed upon, and Ordered, that the
receiver general be, and he is hereby directed, to pay Mr. Israel Nich-
ols, the sum of eighteen shillings, in full of his account.
Capt. Stone, agreeably to order, brought in the following resolve,
respecting Daniel Green, which was accepted :
Resolved, That the selectraen of Watertown be, and hereby are di-
rected, to take Daniel Green, a prisoner, taken in the late battle on
the 19th of April last, who is now in this town, and safely convey him
to Mr. Jones, prison keeper at Concord ; and said prison keeper is
hereby directed safely to keep, and properly support the said Green,
until further order of the Congress or House of Representatives.
The committee on Capt. Lane's account, reported. The report was
accepted, and is as follows, viz. :
Resolved, That the receiver general be, and he is hereby directed,
to pay John Lane, the sum of three pounds six shillings, for horse hire,
and expenses, from Falmouth to Watertown, and back again, in be-
half of the Penobscot tribe of Indians.
Resolved, That the receiver general be, and he is hereby directed,
to pay to Mr. Simon Hastings, the sum of eight pounds four shillings,
1775] TIIIIU) PROVINCIAI. CONGRESS. 485
fur attending tliis Congress as a door-keeper, for forty-one days, the
present session.
Adjourned to Tuesday morning, eight o'clock.
Tuesday, Ji:i,y 11, 1775.
A letter from , of New York, to the committee of
donations for the town of I>oston, was read ; upon which, the Con-
gress assumed the consideration of a report relative to such donations,
which was accepted, and ordered to he printed in the newspapers, and
is as follows, viz :
Whereas, the poor of Boston and Charlestown, who have been as-
signed to the several towns in this colony, and have been, and still are
supported at the public expense, for reasons that are obvious; there-
fore, Resolvicl, that the money, grain, flour, &-c. that have, or shall be
generously given for the support of said poor, and lodged within this
colony, ought to be considered as belonging to the public stock of this
colony, for the use aforesaid ; and the committee of supplies are hereby
directed to take care of such donations accordingly, till the further or-
der of this Congress, or House of Representatives; and when any
town shall, by order of said committee, or otherwise, receive or make
use of such donations, or any part thereof, the selectmen of such town
are hereby ordered to exhibit an exact account thereof, to this Con-
gress, or some future House of Representatives, as credit to their ac-
counts of charges for the support of the poor abovesaid.
A resolve of the committee of safety, relative to soldiers who had
enlisted a second time, was read, and committed to the committee who
were yesterday appointed to inquire into the subject of General Wash-
ington's letter.
Resolved, That if this committee is not ready to report to the Con-
gress at its present session, that they be directed to report to the next
General Assembly or House of Representatives.
Ordered, That Doct. Church, Capt. Stone, and Mr. Woodbridge,
be a committee to inquire into the subject of a resolve of the commit-
tee of safety, rehitive to Mr. Winslow's employing one William Lightly,
to carry a load of molasses from Connecticut to New York.
Resolved, That this Congress has no objection to Mrs. Mary
Greenwood having a permit to go into Boston.
The committee appointed to consider the circumstances of the town
of Hull, reported. The report was accepted, and is as follows, viz. :
The committee appointed by this Congress to consider of a request
of a committee from the town of Hull, setting forth that they are now
486 THIRD PROVINCIAL CONGRESS. [July II,
invested by an armed vessel, and expect that the communication be-
tween them, and their neighbors, will soon be cut oiT, beg leave to
report the following resolve, viz. :
Resolved, That it be, and it is hereby accordingly recommended to
the selectmen and committees of correspondence of the town of Iling-
ham, and district of Cohasset, that they cause all convenient assistance
to be given to the inhabitants of Hull, in removing their effects from
that place, and securing and removing the crops of grain, and other
produce, from said town, to some secure place for the use of the pres-
ent proprietors of the same.
Mr. Pickering, by leave of Congress, presented the following resolve
in behalf of Capt. Samuel Williams, which was accepted :
On an application made to this Congress, setting forth that a number
of gentlemen at Salem, in this colony, have employed Capt. Samuel
Williams of that town, to procure for them, at their cost, a number of
barrels of powder, at New York, or elsewhere to the southward : Re-
solved, that the intention of those gentlemen is agreeable to this Con-
gress, and that Capt. Samuel Williams appears to be a friend to his
country, and possesses the confidence of his townsmen, and that if he
executes his commission, it will be of great service to this, and the
other colonies.
Resolved, That the persons employed in cutting the grass on the
land of the refugees, be allowed half a pint of rum, each, per day.
Afternoon.
Ordered, That Mr. Gerry, Mr. Phillips, and Col. Porter, be a com-
mittee to repair immediately to General Washington, and know of him
what number of men he would have this Congress raise, for a tempo-
rary reinforcement of the army ; and to inform the General of the
powers vested by this Congress, in the committee of safety, and to
confer with the General, at large, on the state of the army, and in par-
ticular, with respect to some soldiers of the army who have enlisted
twice.
Ordered, That the president. Col. Palmer, Mr. Jewett, Capt. Stone,
and Col. Farley, be a committee to devise some means of raising
speedily a temporary rccnforcement of the army, and to bring in an
establishment.
Ordered, That Capt. Brown, Mr. Glover, and Major Fuller, be a
committee to procure three couriers by ten o'clock tomorrow mornincr.
Resolved, That the receiver general be empowered and directed to
employ some person to number the colony notes.
1775.] THIRD PROVINCIAL CONGRESS. 487
Ordered, Tliat Mr. Fox, .and Mr. Bigrlow, be added to flie commit-
lee, who were appointed to consider wliat was proper to be done with
the public stock ol" powder.
Ordered, That Col. Lincoln bring in a resolve, determining what is
best to be done with the whale-boats.
Ordered, That Mr. Shillaber, Mr. Johnson, and Mr. Brown, be a
committee to see that the fish, procured by the committee of supplies
for the use of this colony, be properly taken care of
A memorial of William Hunt was read, and ordered to Ho on the
table.
Major Barber's account was allowed, and the receiver general di-
rected to pay it.
Col, Lincoln, agreeably to appointment, brought in the following
resolve, relative to wlialc-boats, which was accepted :
Whereas, the Congress, sometime past, directed and empowered, in
the absence of Capt Joshua Davis, Capt. Edmund Soper to take care
of a number of whale-boats, then lying in the river at Braintree, pur-
chased by said Davis for the use of the colony, and as he hath procured
and brought there, a very considerable number more, which require
his care and inspection , and as one person is sufficient to have the
care of the whole of them : therefore. Resolved, that, as Capt. Davis is
now returned, Capt. Edmund Soper be excused from any care of said
boats, until further orders; that he give information to said Davis,
where they are lodged, and if he hath delivered any of them to the
order of the officers in the army, to whom they were delivered, in order
to his receiving them into his possession, as soon as the public service
will admit of it.
Adjourned to eight o'clock tomorrow morning.
Wednesday, July 12, 1775.
The committee appointed to consider a resolve of the committee of
safety, relative to Mr. Winslow-'s employing one William Lightly to
carry a load of molasses to New York, &bc., reported the following
letter to Governor Trumbull, which was accepted, and ordered to be
authenticated, and sent forward :
May it please your honor :
The brigantine Nancy, now in the harbor of Stonington, in Con-
necticut, being laden with molasses, the property of the late Joshua
Winslow of Boston, a noted, and active friend to administration ;
which, as we are well informed, is now directed to be conveyed lo New
488 THIRD PROVINCIAL CONGRESS. [July 11,
York, and from thence as we conjecture, from sundry suspicious cir-
cumstances, to be sent to Boston ; the master who has undertaken this
business, being now in custody, having given the information before-
mentioned, the Congress of the Massachusetts Bay beg leave to ob-
serve to your honor, whether prudence and good policy do not suggest
to detain said ship and cargo, or such part of it as belongs to said
Winslow, for the use of the colonies, rather than to suffer them to fall
into the hands of General Gage, where they will be improved to the
support of our enemies, and to augment the distress of these colonies.
We have the honor to be, fee.
To the Hon. Governor Trumbull.
Resolved, That said William Lightly be confined in Concord jail,
and that Mr. Davis be dismissed, and that Mr. Woodbridge bring in a
resolve for this purpose.
Ordered, That Mr. Crane, and Mr. Fox, make out warrants for
several surgeons and surgeons' mates, agreeably to a list this day ex-
hibited by Doct. Taylor, and that such warrants, when made out, be
transmitted to the committee of safety.
Mr. Glover, by leave of Congress, brought in a resolve, recommend-
ing to such able-bodied men as have left their sea-port towns to return ;
which resolve was accepted, and is as follows, viz. :
Whereas, many able-bodied men, who were inhabitants of the sea-
port towns of the colony, have removed their families into the country,
and have themselves left said towns, and carried with them their arms
and ammunition ; therefore. Resolved, that this Congress do approve
of the conduct of such persons, so far as it respects the removing the
women, and children, and valuable effects. It is recommended to the
male inhabitants, fit to bear arms, that they return to their respective
towns, and there continue with tliat dignity and firmness which ought
ever to distinguish an American, and to defend them from the ravages
of the enemy, until it shall be judged by the inhabitants of such towns,
at a meeting for that purpose, expedient to vacate the same.
Ordered, That Doct. Taylor, Capt. Stone, and Col. Moseley, be a
committee to consider the subject of a letter from Capt. Noble, dated
Pittsfield, July 3, 1775, and report. i
Mr. Woodbridge, agreeably to appointment, brought in the following
resolves, which were accepted.
(1) Capt. Nohle asked the allouancB of the pay roll of his company engaged in the public service,
under Col. Benedict Arnold.
177r>.| I'lIlRD PROVINCIAL CONGRESS. 489
Resolved, That tlic receiver general be, and liereby is directed, to
pay to Mr. Jacob Biiflow, the sum of c£l3, for sundry axes, sliovels,
and spades, and for procuring and carting the same, for tlie use of the
army, agreeably to tlie directions of this Congress.
Resolved, That tlie receiver general be, and he is liereby directed
to pay Jonathan Brown, the sum of £■> '2s. for sundry axes, and for
collecting the same for the use of the army, agreeably to the direction
of tliis Congress.
Resolved, That the receiver general be, and he is hereby directed
to pay Major A. Fuller, £1 2s. Sd. for axes, &-c., as above.
Resolved, That the receiver general be, and he is hereby directed
to pay Deacon Jonas Stone, the sum of =£^18 I2s. 8d. for axes, d^c, as
above.
Resolved, That tlie receiver general be, and he is hereby directed to
pay Mr. Enoch Ellis, the sum of £8 3s. 7d. for axes, &-c., as above.
The committee appointed to confer with the General, relative to the
number of men necessary to be raised for a temporary reenforcement,
reported a letter from him, which was committed to the committee ap-
pointed to devise means of raising such reenforcement, to which com-
mittee Col. Porter, Mr. Glover, and Capt. Parker, were added.
Resolved, That Doct. Church, Doct. Taylor, and Doct. Whiting,
be a committee to take into their custody all the medicines, medical
stores and instruments, which are, or may be provided for the use of
the army, by this colony, and to distribute them at their best discretion,
so that no peculation or needless waste be made of the medicinal
stores belonging to the public.
Resolved, That the president have leave to go home in the afternoon.
Adjourned to three o'clock, P. M.
Aflernoon.
The committee appointed to consider the situation of the public
stock of powder, reported. The report being amended, was drawn
anew, accepted, and is as follows, viz. :
This Congress taking into consideration the situation of the public
stock of powder that is now in Watertown : Resolved, that it be recom-
mended to the committee of supplies, to make a division of said powder
into two or more parcels, as they shall judge requisite ; that they de-
posite one part in this town, and the remainder in such other town or
towns as they shall think most expedient.
Ordered, That Col. Lincoln, Mr. Gill, and Capt. Stone, be a com-
mittee to examine fifteen persons, taken prisoners at Long Island, and
sent to this Congress by the committee of safety.
62
49a THIRD PROVINCIAL CONGRESS. [July 11,
Ordered, That Doct. Taylor, Mr. Phillips, and Major Fuller, be a
committee to enlarge the commission of the committee of safety.
A letter from the committee of safety, requesting this Congress to
appoint a special committee to make provision for the poor of Boston
and Charlestown, was read. The matter, after debate, was ordered
to subside.
The report of the committee for devising means of raising a tem-
porary reenforcement, was taken into consideration, and after much
debate was recommitted ; and Col. Palmer, and Mr. Phillips, were
added to the committee.
The committee appointed to examine the fifteen prisoners, sent to
the Congress by the committee of safety, reported, verbally, facts as
they found them : whereupon. Ordered, that Jonathan Winship, and
Jacob Whipple, two of the prisoners, be discharged immediately; that
Jacob Davis, another of the prisoners, be sent to the main guard at
Cambridge, the Congress having great reason to suspect, that he en-
listed in, and deserted from the army raised by this colony, and that
the officers of the guard be certified, in writing, of what crime the said
Jacob now stands charged ; that John Freeman, a negro man, said to
be the servant of Mr. Joseph Howett of Newburyport, be sent to the
jail at Cambridge, there to continue till further orders; that the other
prisoners, with the said Jacob and John, be committed to Capt. Crafts,
to be kept under guard, until further orders.
Ordered, That Capt. Brown cause suitable provision to be made for
the said prisoners.
Ordered, That Mr. Learned be directed to charge the expense of
keeping Mr. Lightly, and the guard that attend him, to this colony.
Ordered, That Major Fuller, Mr. Kollock, and Mr. Crane, be a
committee to consider what is a proper establishment of salt for the
army, "and report.
The committee appointed to consider a letter from Capt. James No-
ble to Walter Spooner, Esq., reported a resolve, and a letter, which
were accepted, and are as follow, viz. : Resolved, that Henry Gardner,
Esq., receiver general, be, and he is hereby ordered to pay to Capt.
James Noble, or order, .£100, as part of his pay roll, as captain in
Col. Benedict Arnold's regiment, in the late expedition against the
posts of Ticonderoga and Crown point, for the use of said company.
Sir : We received yours of the 3d instant, by Mr. William Barber,
together with your account of expenses, and a muster roll of your
company, whilst in the service of this colony, under the command of
1775.] I'lllUl) PROVINCIAL CONCiRKSS 191
Col. Benedict Arnold, but before your account can be passed with
propriety, it must be examined, and adjusted by indiflercnt persons.
Therefore, it is Ordered, tiiat the connuittee of correspondence for the
town of Pittsficid, be a committee for that purpose; and it is further
Ordered, tliat you make oath to the truth and justness of your muster
roll, and see that the same be right cast; then charge yourself with
i\\e £'Z1 Is. Id., which you received of Col. Arnold, as advance pay
for your company ; also with the oClOO now sent you by Mr. Barber,
agreeably to your order ; then return said roll and account, and when
you comply with the above, you will receive the balance due.
To Capt. James Noble.
Lieut. Zachariah Gurney having conducted fifteen persons who
were taken at Long Island, to this Congress, and the Congress having
ordered eleven of them, under a guard of this town, and dismissed the
other two, the said Gurney is discharged from further attendance.
The report of the committee on Mr. John Gill's account was taken
up, and accepted, and is as follows, viz. :
The committee on the account of John Gill, beg leave to report by
way of resolve, as follows : Resolved, that the receiver general be,
and he is hereby directed, to pay to the within named John Gill, the
sum of £Q lis 8d, in full, of his services on several journeys, horse
hire, expenses, »S^c.
The committee appointed to devise means for raising a temporary
reenforcement, again reported. The report was amended, accepted,
and is as follows, viz. : Whereas, a speedy augmentation of the army
is wanted, and has been requested by the general, to serve as a tempo-
rary reenforcement until the new levies now raising to fill up the regi-
ments in the field, can come in, and until they shall be discharged by
the general of the army, or the assembly of this colony, therefore, jRc-
solved, that it be, and hereby is most earnestly recommended to the in-
habitants of town, that they immediately raise and send to the
camp at Cambridge, men, provided with a good fire-lock, ammu-
nition, and a blanket, each, who shall be detained not longer than one
month, at farthest, from the beginning of their march, and shall be
honorably paid for their service by the colony, all due regard being
had to the present urgency of farming business, and the inconvenience
of complying with such a requisition at this juncture. And the milita-
ry officers, selectmen, and committees of correspondence, are desired
to see this resolve executed without delay, and that they be paid ac-
cording to the following establishment :
492 THIRD PROVINCIAL CONGRESS. [July 13,
N. B. The above is copied from the original report on file, which
has been altered and still appears to be incorrect. The following is a
copy of the printed one on file :
To the military officers, selectmen, and committees of correspon-
dence in the town of .
Gentlemen : — You are hereby most earnestly requested to procure
the execution of the subsequent resolve, with the greatest possible ex-
pedition.
In Provincial Congress, Watertown, July 12, 1775.
Whereas a very speedy augmentation of the army is indispensably
necessary, and has been requested by his excellency General Washing-
ton, to serve as a temporary reenforcement until the new levies now
raising to fill up the regiments in the field may be completed : There-
fore, Resolved, that it be, and it is hereby most earnestly recommended
to the commanding officer of every company in the town of , that
they immediately raise, and send to the camp at Cambridge, able
bodied men, each provided with a good fire-lock, ammunition, and
blanket, who shall be detained not longer than one month, at farthest,
from the beginning of their march, and be paid honorably for their
service ; all due regard in the pay being had to the difficulty of com-
plying with this requisition in the present urgency of the business of
husbandry. Those who are required from together with others
who are called from , will form one company, under the com-
mand of such officers as the field officers of that regiment from which
the greatest number of said company is taken, shall appoint. And the
field officers above mentioned, or the major part of them, are desired
accordingly, without delay, to appoint one captain, and two lieuten-
ants, of persons who now are, or have been in command, well calcula-
ted to serve the public in these departments.
By order of Congress,
A true copy. Attest.
Resolved, That the resolve passed this forenoon, recommending to
all able bodied men, who have left their sea-port towns to return, be
reconsidered.
Adjourned to eight o'clock, to-morrow morning.
Thursday, July 13, 1775.
A letter from General Washington's secretary, dated nine o'clock,
P. M., July 12, 1775, was read ; whereupon. Resolved, that the re-
1775] rilIRD PROVINCIAL CONGRESS. 493
solve passed yesterday, for raising a temporary reenforcenient, be re-
considered.'
A petition from the selectmen and committee of llarpswell, was
read, and committed to Mr. Johnson, Mr. Perry, and Deacon Baker.
Tlie instructions reported to 1)C given Capt, Davis, were considered,
and, after debate, tlie report was ordered to be dismissed.
Ordered, That Capt. Stone, Capt. Baker, and Mr. Learned, be a
committee to consider what towns the ten prisoners now under guard
in this town, shall be sent to.
Ordered, That Michael Edwards, now under guard in this town, be
immediately discharged.
Ordered, That Mr. Phillips, Col. Farley, and Mr. Kollock, be a
committee to examine and consider an account of Mr. Solomon Loth-
rop, [for the entertainment of General Washington.]
Ordered, That Col. Lincoln, Col. Porter, and Mr. Perry, be a com-
mittee to consider some method of supplying the recruiting officers
with money for the purpose.
[The committee reported the following resolve, which was accepted,
viz. :]
Resolved, That the committee of safety be, and they hereby are em-
powered and directed, to give orders on the receiver general in favor of
such officer or officers as are, or shall be appointed as recruiting offi-
cers, not exceeding the sum of four pounds to any one of them, and
take their receipts for the sum they shall order to them respectively,
which sum is to be deducted from their wages on the rolls being made
up, unless otherwise ordered by a house of representatives of this
colony ; and the receiver general is hereby directed to pay said order
accordingly.
Resolved, That the resolve passed yesterday, directing the receiver
general to pay Capt. James Noble, or order, the sum of one hundred
pounds, be reconsidered, and that a resolve be drawn by Capt. Stone,
(1) The following is the letter mentioned in the text:
Head Quarters, Cambridge, Ji'LY 12, 1775.
" Sib: — Upon a conference with the other generals respecting the militia, it has been concluded,
that one thousand men to be stationed in and about Medfoid, will be sutTicient for the present ser-
vice."
" His excellency has also directed me to request of the Congress, in his name, that they would urge
the committees in the several towns, to forward and promote the new levies as much as possible,
and that they would exert themselves to send to the camp, such soldiers as have staid beyond their
furloughs, or have left the service, and may be returned to their former homes.
" I am sir, with much respect. Your most obedient humble servant,
JOS. KEED, Secretary."
494 THIRD PROVINCIAL CONGRESS. [July 13,
directing the said receiver general, to pay Mr. William Barber, the
said sum of one hundred pounds, for the use of Capt. Noble.
Resolved, That Capt. Stone be appointed to the office of president
of this Congress in the absence of Col. Warren.
Capt. Stone, agreeably to his request, being excused from the office
of president :
Resolved, That Col. Benjamin Lincoln be appointed to officiate as
president of this Congress in the absence of the Hon, James Warren,
Esq.
The committee appointed to consider the petition of the selectmen
and committee of safety of the district of Harpsvvell,i reported, that the
consideration of said petition be referred to the general assembly. The
report was accepted.
Resolved, That Lieut. Zachariah Gurney be, and he hereby is di-
rected, to take into his custody John Davis, and John Freeman a ne-
gro man, and convey them to Cambridge, and deliver them according
to the resolves of this Congress respecting them ; copies of which are
,to be delivered him, together with this resolve.
Capt. Stone, agreeably to the direction this day of Congress, brought
in the following resolve, which was accepted :
(1) " To the honorable the Provincial Cong-ress of Massachusetts Bay, convened at TVatertown, July
—, 1775."
" The petition of the selectmen and committee of safety, at the desire, and inbehalf of the inhabi-
tants of the district of Harpswell, humbly sheweth ; that your petitioners have, at all times, exert-
ed tliemselves in prosecuting those measures recommended by the Continental and Provincial Con-
gresses : that it is their fixed determination to continue thus to do ; that some of said inhabitants
cheerfully enlisted for the public safety, and to ward off that despotic and arbitrary power with
which administration is aiming to govern the colonies ; that said district, on the account of its situa-
tion, being an isthmus, or neck of land, about ten miles in length, with many adjacent islands, nav-
joable on each side, upwards of seven miles for ships of the navy, and abounding with cattle, sheep,
&,c., is peculiarly exposed to the ravages of the British troops ; that the inhabitants of said district,
did, at their own cost, station guards every night, at sundry places most exposed, lest the troops
should be benefited by tlieir provision ; that the enlisted men were, upon the 20th of June last, put
upon duty by order of their superior officers, to guard said district from the plundering of troops
which were daily expected with cutters, &c. ; tliat the inhabitants of said district are in low cir-
cumstances, and are unable to enlist any more men, unless their liusbandry employment greatly suf-
fers, wliich must be an additional distress to that wliich they alieady feel ; that, should tlie men al-
ready enlisted be called away to join the army, said district is liable to fall an easy prey to the rav-
ages of troops whiclx may attack it for frosli provisions. Your petitioners therefore, humbly pray,
that this honorable Congress in their great wisdom, would allow said district the number of men al-
ready enlisted, with such additional number, as llie Congress may judge proper ; and your petition-
ers, as in duty bound, shall ever pray."
"JOHN RODICK, ) Selectmen
WILLIAM SYLVESTER. \ of said District.
PAUL KENDALL, ) Committee of Safetii
WILLFAM SYLVESTER.) for said District.''
Harpswell, 8 July, 1775.
1775] THIRD PROVINCIAL CONGRESS. 1«).3
Resolved, That Ilonry Gardner, Esq., receiver general, be, and lie
is lioreby ordered, to pay to Mr. William Barber, for the use of Caj)t.
James Noble, oL'KK), as part of said Ncjblc's pay roll as captain in Col.
Benedict Arnohl's regiment, in the late expedition against the posts of
Ticonderoga and Crown Point, for the use of said Noble's company.
The committee appointed to consider an account of Air. Solomon
Lothrop, reported. The report was accepted, and is as follows, viz. :
Resolved, That the receiver general be, and hereby is directed, to
pay Mr. S. Lothrop, the sum of £^'i Os. 9f/. in full of his account
exhibited this day, for entertainment provided for General Washing-
ton.
Resolved, That the resolve passed yesterday, directing the receiver
general to pay Mr. John Gill .£6 17s. Qd. be reconsidered.
Resolved, That John Davis, one of the persons taken from Long
Island, and brought under guard to this Congress, be remanded to the
commander in chief of the American forces, at Cambridge, being sus-
pected to have deserted from Capt. Foster's company in the artillery,
and engaged in the service of our enemies : that he be delivered, to-
gether with a copy of this resolve, to such officer as the general shall
appoint.
Resolved, That John Freeman a negro man, one of the persons
taken from Long Island, and brought under guard to this Congress,
be committed to the jail in Cambridge; there to remain until he be
discharged by order of this Congress, or some future house of repre-
sentatives, or by order of the committee of safety, in case there is no
Congress or house of representatives then sitting, and the jail keeper
is hereby directed to receive, detain, and provide for the said John
accordingly.
Ordered, That Mr. Crane, Major Fuller and Mr. Jewett, be a com-
mittee to consider a resolve of the committee relative to horses, this
day presented to Congress.
The resolve of the committee of safety, relative to such soldiers as
have enlisted twice, was read, and again recommitted to Col. Porter,
Col. Mosely and Capt. Stone.
Ordered, That Mr. Phillips, Mr. Kollock and Mr. Robinson, be a
committee to bring in a resolve, recommending to the inhabitants of
tliis colony not to kill any more sheep, till the general assembly shall
take some order hereon.
The committee appointed to make an establishment of salt, for the
soldiers, reported. The report was accepted, and is as follows :
Whereas, complaints have been made to this Congress, that there is
496 THIRD PROVINCIAL CONGRESS. [July 13,
now great want of salt in the camps ; therefore, Resolved, that the
commissary he, and herehy is directed, when application is made by
any of the officers for the above said article, to deal out one gill per
week to each person, for which said application is made, and no more.
The committee appointed to consider a resolve of the committee of
safety, relative to several horses taken from the enemy, reported. The
report was accepted, and is as follows, viz. : Whereas, four horses
were taken by Capt. Brown, of Salem, and a party with him at or near
Charlestown neck, and some disputes having arisen whose property
said horses should be, therefore. Resolved, that the said horses be de-
livered into the hands of Capt. Brown aforesaid, until the further order
of this Congress, or some future house of representatives of this colo-
ny, to whom he is to be accountable for the same.
The committee appointed to bring in a resolve recommending to the
inhabitants of this colony, not to kill any more sheep, &.C., reported.
The report was accepted, and ordered to be printed in the newspapers,
and in handbills to be issued for procuring coats, &.c.
Whereas, there is the highest probability of a very large demand
for the article of wool, and inconceivable mischief may ensue from
delaying a speedy provision for its increase ; therefore, Resolved, that
it be earnestly recommended to the inhabitants of this colony, that
they refrain from killing any sheep, or lambs, excepting in cases of
absolute necessity, till the further order of this Congress, or some fu-
ture assembly of this colony, and it is expected of every person who
regards the advice of this body, the decisions of the Continental Con-
gress, or the welfare of this people, that they grant a strict compliance
herewith.
A resolve was brought in on the account of Alexander Gray, and
accepted, and is as follows, viz. :
Resolved, That the receiver general be, and hereby is directed, to
pay Mr. Alexander Gray, or order, £2 7s. 8d. in full for the balance
of his account of time, and expenses, on a journey to Philadelphia, as
an express to the Continental Congress.
A resolve for payment of Mr. Nathaniel Barber's account was
brought in, accepted, and is as follows, viz. :
Resolved, Tliat the receiver general be, and hereby is directed, to
pay Mr. Nathaniel Barber, or order, ,£4 14s. 4rf. in full for one
month's service as store keeper of the ordnance, and expenses of
horse hire, &:-c., agreeably to an account exhibited to this Congress,
by said Barber.
The conmiittee appointed to consider a resolve of the committee of
177.-,] rninn provincial congress. in?
safety, relative to soMiers who IkuI eiilistc*! twice, reported. The re-
port was accepted, and is as follows, vi/. : Whereas, many inconven-
iences have arisen by reason of divers soldiers of the forces raised by tliis
colony enlistinjT a second time into otiier companies than those wjiich
they first enlisted into, which onght to be remedied; therefore, Rc-
snlvcd, that every soldier, who, before the second day of July instant, hai?
enlisted into other companies than those with whom he at first enlist-
ed, unless the second enlistment was made with the consent of the
officer with whom he at first enlisted, or by consent of the committee
of safety, or order of Congress, in either of which cases the first en-
listment shall be void, shall return to the company with whom he first
enlisted, if requested by the commanding officer of such company,
otherwise to remain in the company he next enlisted into. And in
case any dispute shall arise, whether any such second enlistment was
made by consent, or order, as above expressed, the committee of safety
are hereby ejjopowered and directed fully and finally to settle and de-
termine the same.
The committee appointed to consider what towns the ten prisoners
shall be sent to, reported. The report was accepted, and is as follows,
viz. :
Resolved, That ten persons, taken from Long Island, be sent to
the towns in the county of Worcester hereafter named, viz. : John
Hayes and Thomas Bibby to the town of Lunenburg ; James Griffin
and John Reed to Rutland ; Perez Merren and Michael Malony to
Shrewsbury ; Patrick Hickey and Richard Nash to Brookfield ; Mi-
chael Mellows and John Fleming to Sutton : to be received, employ-
ed and provided for, by the selectmen of those respective towns, in
the best way and manner they can, till the further order of this col-
ony. And it is further Resolved, that the prisoners shall not be
at liberty to pass over the line of the town, where they are respective-
ly stationed, without a pass from the selectmen of such town, after
they have arrived therein.
Further Resolved, That a copy of the foregoing, so far as relates to
each town, be by them carried to the selectmen of such town, and that
each of the above named persons be informed, that any attempt to
make an escape, or evade the execution of the above resolve, shall be
deemed full evidence of his being engaged in the service of the ene-
mies of this country, and that he shall be treated as such.
Further Resolved, that each of the said persons be furnished with
two days' provisions, to enable them to repair to the several places of
63
498 THIRD PROVINCIAL CONGRESS. [July 13,
their destination ; which provision shall be delivered to them by Cap-
tain Brown, out of the colony stores in this place.
Ordered, That the president, Mr. Phillips, and Col. Porter, Mr.
Gerry, and Capt. Stone, be a committee to revise and explain the com-
mission of the committee of safety.
Afternoon .
[The committee appointed to revise the commission of the comniit-
lee of safety, reported. The report was accepted, and is as follows,
viz. :]
Resolved, That the Hon. John Hancock, Esq., Doct. Benjamin
Church, Capt. Benjamin White, Col. Joseph Palmer, Mr. Richard
Devens, Mr. Abraham Watson, Col. Azor Orne, Hon. Benjamin
Greenleaf, Esq , Nathan Cushing, Esq., Doct. Samuel Holten, and
Hon. Enoch Freeman, Esq., be, and hereby are appointed a committee
of safety for this colony, with the powers and authorities hereafter ex-
pressed, and no other, that is to say ; that the said committee shall
have full power, at any time during the recess of this Congress, if they
shall judge it necessary, in the shortest and most effectual manner, to
summon and cause to come together a quorum of this Congress, forty
at the least to be accounted a quorum, at such place as the said com-
mittee shall judge most proper ; and in assembling such quorum the
said committee are hereby strictly enjoined to notify such members as
may be most expeditiously assembled. Also, that the said committee
be, and they hereby are invested with full power, until the thirtieth day of
July instant, or until their commission shall be abrogated by the repre-
sentative body of the inhabitants of this colony, upon application made
to them therefor, by the general and commander in chief of the conti-
nental army in this colony, for the time being, or whenever the said
committee, without such application, shall judge the safety of the
lives and property of the inhabitants of this colony, or of any of
them, shall absolutely require it, to warn, and cause to be assembled,
such and so many of the militia thereof, as they shall judge necessary,
at such place or places within the colony as they shall judge proper,
and such militia to retain and discharge as to the said committee shall
seem meet. Also, that the said committee are hereby empowered,
during the time last mentioned, to procure, and employ for that part of
the said continental army raised by this colony, all such armorers and
other tradesmen and artificers, as they shall suppose and judge to be
needed, to further and promote the operations of the said army, and
them, as also all such tradesmen and artificers as are now retained,
and employed for that part of the said army, to regulate, arrange, re-
177.", ] rniun provincial congress. \w
move, clisnii:?!s, aii<l discliiiriTi', for iiiiskilliilnc'-s, iinr^iitliliiliicss, or
whenever the service may not re(|uire tlie further relainintr tliem, or
any of them. And the said eonunittee : rj lierel)y desired to he atten-
tive to the hchavior and ixriormaiices ol" such trach-snien and artilicers
as are now, or sliall l)e in the service and employ of tliis coh)ny in the
said army, that the colony be not defrauded by unfaithful, and incom-
petent persons.
And the said eonunittee are hereby authorized to execute ail the
commissions, and perform all the services which have been given tliem,
and to which they have been appointed in and by any special resolves
of this Congress, made ami passed at this se.^sion, which they have not
yet executed and performed.
And furthermore, the said committee are hereby empowered to make
such further provision for the reception, sustenance, and support of the
poor of Boston and Charlestown as have, or may come out of said
towns, as may appear to be necessary for their comfortable subsistence,
according to the intention of Congress, taking all imaginable care to
guard against the infection of the small pox, by persons coming out of
the town of Boston, and any other means whatever.
And it is hereby Resolved, and Ordered, that any five of said com-
mittee, if a majority are not present, be a quorum, with full powers to
act in the same manner as if the whole were present. And the whole
of said committee are desired, notwithstanding, to give their punctual,
and constant attendance on said committee.
Kesolccd, That the said committee be, and they hereby are fully
empowered, until the thirtieth of July instant, or until their commission
shall be abrogated by the representative body of the inhabitants of this
colony, to receive, examine, and discharge, or cause to be confined,
according to their wisdom, any person or persons taken captive, that
may properly come under the cognizance of the representative body of
this people, and to receive, and duly secure, any interests, or effects,
the conduct whereof is not already provided for, that shall be at the
disposal of this colony. And all the powers with which the committee
of safety were vested by the resolve of the eighteenth of May last, except
such as are contained in the above resolves, are hereby revoked, and
declared null and void.
Ordered, That Major Fuller of Newton, Col. Farley, Mr. Crane,
Capt. Stone, and Major Fuller, be a committee to examine the prison-
ers brought from Machias, and report what is best to be done with
them.
Ordered, That Col. Mosely, Mr. Woodbridge, and Mr. Kollock, be
500 THIRD PROVINCIAL CONGRESS. [July 13,
a committee to consider Lieut. Ely Styles' [account of the] expense
of bringing ten prisoners from Machias.
The committee last mentioned, having attended the service to which
they w^ere appointed, reported the following resolve, which was ac-
cepted, viz. :
Resolved, That the receiver general be, and he is hereby directed
to pay Lieut. Ely Styles the sum of six pounds twelve shillings, in full
discharge of the money he expended in bringing a number of prisoners
from Machias to Watertown.
The committee appointed to consider what is best to be done with
the ten prisoners brought from Machias, reported : whereupon, Re-
solved, that the commanding oflicer of the town of Watertown be
desired to appoint some officer, with a guard of not more than eight
men, to conduct the said prisoners to the jail in Worcester, tomorrow
morning : that Captain Crafts be desired to take care of the said pris-
oners, till that time ; and that the officer who may be appointed to
conduct said prisoners to Worcester, be empowered to draw on Capt.
Brown, the commissary in this town, for so much provisions as may be
necessary for their support to Worcester ; and Capt. Brown is directed
to supply them accordingly.
The report above mentioned was [reconsidered, amended, and] ac-
cepted, as follows, viz. :
Resolved, That Thomas Skinner, a seaman, William Nurse, a ma-
rine, John Burrows, a seaman, Nicholas Durham, a marine, Peter Larch-
er, a sailor, Thomas Crispo, Joseph Temple, sailors, William Bishop,
a sailor, and John Pardra, a marine, prisoners, all taken on board the
armed schooner, called the Margaretta, commanded by Matthew Moor,
near Machias, be all sent under a proper guard to the common jail in
the county of Worcester, and the jail keeper is hereby directed to re-
ceive them therein, and provide for them, and detain them there till
the further order of this Congress or [the] House of Representatives of
this colony.
Ordered, That Mr. Phillips be appointed to acquaint General Wash-
ington with the proceedings of this Congress, with regard to Daniel
Green, lately conveyed to Concord jail, and the reasons thereof; and
desire his excellency to take such further order concerning him as his
wisdom may direct.
Ordered, That the president, Mr. Gill, and Mr. Gerry, be a com-
mittee to return the thanks of this Congress to the Rev. Mr, Gordon,
for his attendance and acceptable services to this Congress as their
chaplain.
1775] THIRD PROVINCIAL CONGRESS. 601
Ordrrrd, 'I'liat the president, Mr. Gill, and Mr. Gerry, be a com-
iiiiltee to return the thanks of this Congress to the proprietors of the
meeting-house fur the use of it, during the session of this Congress.
Ordered, That tiic present ])rcsident, (Col. Lincoln.) Mr. Gill, and
Mr. Gerry, l)e a cominittee to return tlie thanks of this Congress to the
Hon. James Warren, Esq., for his faithful services as president of the
Congress.
Resolved, That the committee of sujiplies be, and hereby are direct-
ed, on application made by any of the inhabitants of the eastern parts
of the colony, to grant them such relief, out of the public stores, as
they may think proper, consistent with the general interest, during the
recess of the Congress.
Whereas, the Hon. Jedediah Preble, and the Hon. Enoch Freeman,
Esq., have employed some persons to build a number of whale-boats
for the service of the public, therefore. Resolved, that the committee of
supplies be, and hereby are directed, to deliver to Capt. Briant Mor-
ton, or order, to be by said Morton delivered to said Preble and Free-
man, such a quantity of nails and provisions as they think will be
necessary to complete the building said boats.
The Congress then adjourned to Wednesday next, at eight o'clock,
A. M.
Wednesday, July 19, 1775.
Col. Easton being admitted, requested that a committee be appoint-
ed to consider the necessity of drawing on the treasury for the sum of
twelve hundred pounds, said to be due to his regiment at Ticonderoga.
On a motion made, Ordered, that Deacon Fisher, Doct. Taylor, and
Mr. Gill, be a committee for that purpose, and that they be directed, in
case they cannot report to this Congress, to make report to the next
House of Representatives.
On a motion made and seconded, that the Congress be dissolved,
the question was put, and it passed in the affirmative.
The Congress was accordingly dissolved.
SAMUEL FREEMAN, Secretary.
JOURNALS
OF
THE COMMITTEE OF SAFETY
AND OF
THE COMMITTEE OF SUPPLIES
OF
THE PROVINCIAL CONGRESS
OF
1774—1775.
JOURNAL.
NoVF.MUER 2, 1774.
At a meeting of the committee of safety, at the house of Capt. Sted-
man, in Cambridge, November 2, 1774, Wednesday :
Present — Hon. John Hancock, Esq., chairman. Col. Orne, Mr. Wat-
son, Col. Palmer, Mr. Devens, Capt. Heath, Doct. Warren, Doct.
Church, Capt. White, John Pigeon :
Voted, That John Pigeon be clerk of this committee.
Voted, That it be recommended to the committee of supplies, to pro-
cure, as soon as may be, 355 barrels of pork, 700 barrels of flour, 20 tier-
ces of rice, 300 bushels of pease ; and that there be deposited of them,
in Worcester, 200 barrels of pork, 400 barrels of flour, 150 bushels of
pease; and, at Concord, 155 barrels of pork, 300 barrels of flour, 50
tierces of rice, and 150 bushels of pease.
Adjourned to meet next Tuesday, ten o'clock, at Capt. Stedman's.
November 8, 1774.
At a meeting of the committees of safety and of supplies at the house
of Capt. Stedman, Tuesday the 8th of November, 1774 :
Present — Doct. Warren, Doct. Church, Capt. White, Capt. Heath,
Mr. Devens, Col. Palmer, Mr. Watson, J. Pigeon, committee of safctij :
Col. Lee, Deacon Cheever, Mr. Gill, Mr. Hall, Col. Lincoln, commit-
tee oj" supplies :
Voted, unanimously, by the committee of safety, that the committee
of supplies be advised to procure all the arms and ammunition they
can, at the neighboring provinces on the continent ; and, that it is re-
commended, tliat the committee of supplies do, and may with safety,
engage to pay for the same, on the arrival here of said arms and am-
munition.
Voted, That the committees adjourn to Mrs. Whittemorc's, in
Charlestown, to meet next Tuesday, at ten o'clock.
(Jl
50G COMMITTEES OF SAFETY AND SUPPLIES. [Dec. 20,
November 15, 1774.
At a meeting of the committees of safety and supplies, at Mrs. Whit-
temore's, in Charlestown, on Tuesday, 15th November, 1774:
Present — Doct. Warren, Doct. Church, Col. Palmer, Mr. Devens,
Mr. Watson, Col. Orne, Mr. White, J. Pigeon, committee of safety :
Col. Lee, Col. Lincoln, Deacon Cheever, Mr. Gill, committee of sup-
plies :
Voted, unanimously, that Mr. Gill be desired to apply to Mr. Wil-
liam Powell, to get seven large pieces of cannon, on the best terms he
can ; and, that said Gill and Mr. Benjamin Hall be desired to get them
out of Boston to some place in the country, in such manner as they
may think most prudent.
Decembek 20, 1774.
At a meeting of the committees of safety and supplies, at the house
of Mrs. Whittemore, of Charlestown, on Tuesday, the 20th of Decem-
ber, 1774 :
Present — John Hancock, Esq., Col. Orne, Col. Heath, Capt. White,
Doct. Church, Doct. Warren, Mr. Watson, Col. Palmer, J. Pigeon,
committee of safety : Col. Lee, Deacon Cheever, Mr. Gill, Mr Hall,
committee of supplies :
Voted, That the committee of supplies endeavor to procure the fol-
lowing articles, viz. : 200 spades, 150 iron shovels, 150 pick-axes,
1000 six quart iron pots, 200 bill hooks, 1000 wooden mess bowls, 1
tenant saw, sieves, cartridge paper, tin cases, tubes, drills, hand mal-
lets, drawing knives, gunner's quadrants, and fuses, as much as they
think necessary of each of those articles, to which the quantity is not
annexed.
Voted, unanimously, that Doct. Warren, Doct. Church, and the
Hon. John Hancock, Esq., be a committee to inspect the commissa-
ries' stores, in Boston, and report what surgeon's stores and stores of
other kind are there.
Voted, unanimously, that the Hon. John Hancock, Esq., Doct. War-
ren, and Mr. Gill, be a committee to write a letter to Henry Gardner,
Esq., directing him to draft a letter to the collectors and constables,
requesting them to make immediate payments of the taxes for 1773
and 1774, and all other province money in their hands.
Voted, That the committees adjourn to meet next Wednesday, at
eleven o'clock, at Mrs. Whittemore's, in Charlestown.
1774] COMMITTEES OF SAFETY AND SUPPLIES. 507
January 5, 177;j.
At a meeting of the committees of safety and supplies, at the Iiouse
of Mrs. Whittemore, of Charlestowii, on Tliursday, the 5th of Janua-
ry, 1775 :
Present — John Hancock, Esq., Doct. Warren, Mr. Watson, Col.
Heath, J. Pigeon, committee of safety: Col. Lee, Mr. Gill, Deacon
Cheever, Mr. Hall, Col. Lincoln, committee of supplies :
Voted, That the last vote at the meeting on the SOth ultimo, where-
in a committee was appointed to write a letter to Henry Gardner, Esq.,
directing him to write to the collectors and constables, requesting im-
mediate payment of the taxes for 177:3 and 1774, and all other province
debts, be reconsidered, which was done, and, Voted, that it subside,
and that said Gardner receive the taxes, &c., when brought to him.
Voted, That Doct. Warren be desired to wait on Col. Robinson, to
desire him to deliver to any person Deacon Cheever shall send, two
brass cannon, and two seven inch mortars and beds, and, that Mr. Wil-
liam Dawes be desired to deliver to said Cheever, one pair of brass
cannon, and, that the said Cheever procure carriages for said cannon,
or any other cannon that require them ; that the battering cannon car-
riages be carried to the cannon at Waltham, and, that the cannon and
carriages remain there till further orders.
Voted, That the committees adjourn, and meet at this place on the
last Wednesday in this month, eleven o'clock, but if stormy, the next
fair day.
January 25, 1775.
At a meeting of the committees of safety and supplies, at the house
of Mrs. Whittemore, of Charlestown, on Wednesday, the iSth of Jan-
uary, 1775 :
Present — Doct. Warren, Mr. Watson, Deacon Palmer, Mr. Devens,
Capt. White, Col. Orne, J. Pigeon, commiltec of safety : Mr. Gill,
Deacon Cheever, Mr. Hall, Col. Lincoln, committee of supplies :
Voted, That all the cannon, mortars, cannon balls and shells, be de-
posited at the towns of Worcester and Concord, in the same propor-
tion as the provisions are to be deposited.
Voted, unanimously, that two ten inch mortars be provided, and
also, two howitzers be provided, together with a suitable quantity of
shells, by the committee of supplies.
Voted, unanimously, that the committee of supplies endeavor to pro-
cure the following articles, viz. : 200 axes handled and ground com-
plete, 50 wheelbarrows.
508 COMMITTEES OF SAFETY AND SUPPLIES. [Feb. 13,
Voted, unanimously, that Deacon Cheever settle the account with
Mrs. Whittemore, for charges of entertainment at her house, pay the
same, and exhibit his account to the next Cono-ress.
Voted, That the two committees adjourn, and meet next Friday
week, at one o'clock, at Capt. Stedman's, of Cambridge, and dine to-
gether, and, that Mr. Watson bespeak a dinner and room.
February 3, 1775.
At a meeting of the committee of safety and committee of supplies,
at the house of Capt. Ebenezer Stedman, on Friday, the 3d of Febru-
ary:
Present — The Hon. John Hancock, Mr. Watson, Col. Palmer,
Capt. White, Col. Orne, Col. Heath, Mr. Devens, committee of safety :
Col. Lee, Col. Lincoln, Deacon Cheever, Mr. Gill, and Mr. Hall, com-
mittee of supplies :
Voted, unanimously, that the six pounders that were formerly voted
to be procured, be passed by.
Voted, unanimously, that the two pieces of brass cannon in the care
of Capt. Robinson, and the two pieces of [cannon] that were taken out
of Boston, be included in the sixteen that were voted.
Voted, unanimously, that the chairman of [the committee of] sup-
plies be directed to report to the Congress their transactions, since
their appointment, and, that this report be made to-morrow forenoon. i
February 13, 1775.
At a meeting of the committee of safety and the committee of sup-
plies, at Capt. Stedman's, at Cambridge, on Monday, February 13,
1775 :
Present — Hon. John Hancock, Mr. Palmer, Deacon Fisher, Capt.
White, Mr. Watson, Col. Heath, Mr. Devens, of the committee of
safety: Col. Lincoln, Mr. Gill, Elbridge Gerry, of the committee of
supplies :
Voted, That the committee of supplies be desired to purchase all
the powder they can, upon the best terms they can.
Voted, That Capt. White and Col. Lincoln, be a committee to wait
on Col. Robinson, and receive from him the four brass field pieces,
and three brass mortars, now in his hands, the property of the prov-
ince, and as soon as may be, remove them to the town of Concord,
{I) The records of this meeting, anil of tliat licld February 13, are subscribed byRicliard Dovens,
as clerk pro tempore.
177.-,.] COMMITTEES OF SAFETY AND SUPPLIES. oOl)
and tliey arc to iiilDiiii liiiii lliat the coiiiinitlce a^rco, in caso of a rup-
ture with the troops, that the said t'leld pieces shall be tor tlic u.'^c oi"
the artillery conipanics in IJoston and Dorchester, and if matters arc
settled without, said field pieces arc to be returned to said Robinson.
Febrlary 21, 1775.
At a meeting of the committee of safety, and committee of sup-
plies, at the house of Capt. Nathan Adams, in Charlcstowri, Tuesday,
February 21, 1775 :
Prrsf'ut — Hon. John. Hancock, Doct. .Tosepli Warren, Doct. Cliurcli,
Mr. Watson, Col. Heath, Mr. Devens, Col. Orne, rommittrc of snfdy :
Mr. Gill, Mr. Cheever, Mr. Gerry and Col. Lincoln, rommittcc of
supplier :
Voted, unanimously, by both committees, that the committee of
supplies do procure ten tons of brimstone, provided, it can be had on
this condition ; that the committee of supplies engage to pay there-
for, when the present owner shall have opportunity to sell the same, or
that it shall be returned in si.\ months if not used, and if used, that it
shall then be paid for.
Voted, unanimously, by the committee of safety, that the commit-
tee of supplies purchase all kinds of warlike stores, sufficient for an
army of fifteen thousand men to take the field.
Voted, unanimously, that the powder that is now at Concord be re-
moved to Leicester.
Voted, unanimously, that the committee of supplies get fifteen
thousand canteens.
Voted, That Docts. Warren and Church be a committee to bring in
an inventory of what is necessary in the way of their profession, for
the above army to take the field.
Vottd,T\\Vii these committees adjourn to to-morrow morning, at nine
o'clock, in this place.
February 22, 1775.
At a meeting of the committee of safety, and the committee of
supplies, Wednesday morning, February 22, 1775 :
Present — Hon. John Hancock, Col. Orne, Col. Heath, Capt. White,
Mr. Watson, Mr. Devens, Mr. Pigeon, Doct. Warren and Doct.
Church, committee of safety : Col. Lincoln, Mr. Cheever, Mr. Gerry
and Mr. Gill, of the committee of supplies :
Voted, That the committee of supplies procure one hundred bell
tents, for arms.
510 COMMITTEES OF SAFETY AND SUPPLIES. [Feb. 23,
Voted, That the committee of supplies procure one thousand field
tents complete, for the soldiers.
Voted, That the committee of supplies procure ten tons of lead
balls, in addition to what were formerly voted.
Voted, That said committee employ a number of men to make cart-
ridges for fifteen thousand men, for thirty rounds.
Voted, That said committee purchase three hundred bushels of
beans or peas, more than formerly ordered. Also, that they purchase
twenty hogsheads of molasses : also, 150 quintals of salt fish : also,
two carpenters' chests of tools complete.
Voted, That Mr. John Pigeon be the commissary of stores.
Voted, That Mr. Abraham Watson, on the arrival of more troops,
take possession of the province arms, now at the college, and send
them to Worcester.
Voted, That the province arms, now at Boston and Roxbury, be re-
moved by Moses Gill, Esq., to Worcester,
Voted, unanimously, by both committees, that, on certain intelli-
gence, or such as appears to the committee to be such, of the arrival
of the reenforcements coming to General Gage, that then the commit-
tee appointed to assemble the Congress, be desired to despatch cou-
riers to assemble the Congress immediately.
Voted, That the committees adjourn to this place, to meet to-mor-
row morning, at forty-five minutes after 7 o'clock : and that when
the committees meet to transact business after the arrival of the reen-
forcements to General Gage, it be at Capt. Stedman's at Cambridge.
February 23, 1775.
At a meeting of the committee of safety and the committee of sup-
plies, February 23, 1775 :
Present — lion. John Hancock, Col. Orne, Capt. White, Doct.
Church, Mr. Devens, Mr. Watson, Doct. Warren, Mr. Pigeon, com-
mittee of safety : Col Lincoln, Mr. Gerry, Mr. Cheever and Mr. Gill,
committee of supplies :
Voted, That Doct. Church, Mr. Gerry and John Pigeon, be a coni-
mittee to draft a letter to the commanding ollicers of the militia, and
the connnauding oflicers of the minute men through the province, to
assemble one fourth part of the militia through the province on receipt
of this letter.
Voted, That one hundred of each of the letters be printed, and two
hundred of the resolves of Congress, relating to the committee of safe-
ty assembling the militia.
1775.] COMMITTEES OF SAFETY AND SUPPLIES. 511
Voted, That Moses (iill, Es(|., and Doct. Cliurch, he a committee to
draft a letter to each member of Congress, to lequiie his attendance
directly on receipt of said letters.
Voivd, by the two committees, tliat the following colonels have each
two field pieces put into their hands, by the committee of supplies,
viz. : Col. Gardner of Cambridge, Col. Mitchel of Bridgewater, Col.
Warren of Plymouth, Col. Heath of Ro.xbury, Col. Ward of Shrews-
bury, Col. Foster of Brooklield, Col. Robinson of Dorchester, and
two for the use of the artillery company of Boston, lately commanded
by Major Paddock.
Voted, That Mr. Gerry and Doct. Churcli, be a committee to draft
a letter to the above colonels, relative to the above cannon.
Voted, That the committee of supplies purchase twenty hogsheads
of rum, and send them to Concord.
Voted, That Doct. Warren be desired to apply to tlie company for-
merly under the command of Major Paddock, and know how many of
them may be depended on, officers and men, to form an artillery com-
pany, when the constitutional army of the province shall take the
field, and that report be made without loss of time.
1 oted. That Mr. Cheever and Mr. Devens procure couriers to carry
letters to the several colonels who are appointed to have the care of
the sixteen field pieces, and get an answer, and bring to the committee
of supplies.
Fo^e</, That Cols. Gardner and Heath be desired to procure, by bor-
rowing, field pieces to learn their companies the exercise of them.
Februauy 24, 1775.
At a meeting of the committee of safety, and the committee of sup-
plies, February 24, 1775 :
Present — Hon. John Hancock, Col. Orne, Mr. Devens, Capt. White,
Mr. Watson, J. Pigeon, Doct. Warren, Col. Heath, committee of safety :
Col. Lincoln, David Cheever, Esq., Mr. Gerry and Mr. Gill, committee
of supplies :
Voted, That what artillery companies are formed in the regiments,
shall consist of thirty-two privates.
Voted, That the committee of supplies procure the following arti-
cles, and send the same to Concord, viz. : 1000 candles; 100 hhds.
salt ; a suitable supply of wooden spoons ; 20 casks of raisins ; 20
bushels of oatmeal ; 1500 yards Russia linen ; also 2 barrels Lisbon
oil ; 6 casks of Malaga wine, and 9 casks of Lisbon wine, to be
lodged at Stow.
51ii COMMITTEES OF SAFETY AND SUPPLIES. [March 7,
Voted, That Doct. Warren, Doct. Church, Mr. Gerry, Mr. Cheever,
Col, Orne and Mr. Devens, make inquiry where fifteen doctor's chests
can be got, and on what terms, and report at the next meeting.
Voted, unanimously, that the clerk of the committee of safety, in
behalf of said committee, sign the letters to Col. Warren, Col. Ward,
Col. Mitchell and Col. Foster, relating to two pieces of cannon to be
put under the care of each of those gentlemen.
Voted, unanimously, that Mr. John Goddard, of Brookline, be wag-
gon master for the army, and that Capt. White inform him of his
choice by the province.
Voted, That Mr. Pigeon, Capt. White and Mr. Watson, be a com-
mittee to consider how many couriers shall be chosen to go to the sev-
eral colonels through the province for returns of militia men, and the
minute men, and report what road each courier shall go.
Voted, That eight field pieces, with the shot and cartridges, and
two brass mortars with their bombs, be deposited at Leicester, with
Col. Henshaw.
Voted, That these committees adjourn to Tuesday, the 7th of
March, [to meet] at the house of Capt. Stedman of Cambridge, at
ten o'clock.
March 7, 1775.
At a meeting of the committee of safety, and the committee of sup-
plies, at the house of Capt. Stedman of Cambridge, on Tuesday, the
7th of March, 1775 :
Present — Hon. John Hancock, Doct. Church, Doct. Warren, Mr.
Watson, Mr. Palmer, Capt. White, Mr. Devens, Col. Heath, Mr.
Pigeon, Mr. Adams, Hon. Thomas Cushing, Esq., committee of safety :
Col. Lee^ Mr. Gill, Deacon Cheever, Col. Lincoln, committee of sup-
plies :
Voted, That the committee of supplies be directed to make a draft
on Henry Gardner, Esq., the receiver general, in favor of Doct. Jo-
seph Warren and Doct. Benjamin Church, for five hundred pounds,
lawful money, to enable them to purchase such articles for the provin-
cial chests of medicine as cannot be got on credit, to be deducted
from the provincial tax payable by the town of Boston.
Voted, That what the seven hundred barrels of Hour formerly voted,
fall short of two hundred weight each, be made up to the quantity of
fourteen hundred weight of flour.
Voted, That the couimittees adjourn, to meet at Capt. Stedmau's in
Cambridge, at nine o'clock on Tuesday next.
1775.] COMMITTEES OF SAFETY AND SUPPLIES. 513
M.MKll 14, 111.'}.
At a meeting of tlie committees of safety and supplies, at the liouhc
of Capt. Stedman, Tuesday, 14tli Marcli, 1775:
I'rcsrnt — Hon. Jolm Hancock, Cul. Ileatli, Caj)t. Wliite, Col. Pal-
mer, Mr. Devens, Col. Ornc, Mr. Wat.son, Mr. Pigeon, Hon. Thomas
Gushing and Mr. Samuel Adams, committee of safety : Deacon Chee-
ver, Mr. Gorry and Mr. Gill, committee of supplies:
Voted, That watches be kept constantly at places where the provin-
cial magazines are kept, and that the clerk write on the subject to Col.
Barrett of Concord, Henry Gardner, Esq. of Stow, and Capt. Timo-
thy Bigelow of Worcester, leaving it to them how many the watches
shall consist of
Voted, That the members on these committees, belonging to the towns
of Charlestown, Cambridge and Roxbury, be desired, at the province
expense, to procure at least two men for a watch every night, to be
placed in each of those towns, and that said members be in readiness
to send couriers forward to the towns where the magazines are placed,
when sallies are made from the army by night.^
Voted, That the committees adjourn to [meet on] the 2:2d of this
month, at Concord.
March 23, 1775.
At a meeting of the committees of safety and supplies, at the house
of Mr. Taylor, at Concord, the 23d March, 1775 :
Present — Hon. John Hancock, Esq., Col. Orne, Col. Heath, Capt.
White, Deacon Palmer, Mr. Watson, Mr. Devens, Mr. Pigeon, covi-
viittce of safety : Deacon Cheever, Col. Lincoln, Col. Lee, Mr. Gerry,
Mr. Gill, committee of supplies :
Voted, That a ton of musket bullets now arrived at Concord, be
there lodged with Col. Barrett.-
(1) On tlie fiflecnth of March, tlie committees directed Col. Barrett of Concord, to engage asulH-
cient number of faithful men to guard tlie colony magazines in that town, to keep a suitable num-
ber of teams in constant readiness, by day and night, on the shortest notice, to remove the stores,
and to provide couriers to alarm the neighboring towns, on receiving information of any movements
of the British troops.
(2) The follmviiig letter from Plymouth is preserved on the files of the committees:
"Plymouth, March 27, 1775."
" The selectmen and committee of correspondence of the town of Plymouth, beg leave to rcjiro-
sent the peculiar circumstances of this town, and to desire such aid and protection as you, in y>our
wisdom, shall think proper to direct. We have an open harbor, on which lie the towns of Ply-
mouth, Kingston and Duxhorough, extending twelve or thirteen miles, in almost every part of
where it is extremely easy for troops to land, commit ravages, and retreat, unless a sufficient force
\* continually on duty to watch and repel Ihcni. Kvcr since the late alarm, the inhabitants of this
()5
514 COMMITTEE OF SAFETY. [AprilH,
April 1, 1775.
At a meeting of the committee of safety, at .Concord, April 1, 1775,
Voted, that the stores at Concord, and elsewhere, shall not be removed
without written orders from the committee of safety.
April 5, 1775.
At a meeting of the committee of safety, at the house of Mr. Tay-
lor, of Concord, on Wednesday, April 5, 1775 :
Present — Hon. John Hancock, Esq., Col. Palmer, Col. Heath, Capt.
White, Mr. Watson, J. Pigeon, Mr. Devens :
Voted, unanimously, that the committee of supplies do directly fur-
nish this committee with an exact account, in writing, of all the pro-
visions and stores, and the places of their disposition.
Voted, That one piece of cannon be sent to Col. Mitchell of Bridg-
water.
April 14, 1775.
At a meeting of the committee of safety at Concord, at the house
of Mr. Taylor, on Saturday, April 14, 1775 :
Present — Hon. John Hancock. Esq., Col. Heath, Capt. White, Mr.
Devens, Col. Gardner, Mr. Watson, Mr. Palmer :
Voted, That the cannon now in the town of Concord, be immedi-
ately disposed of within said town, as the committee 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 direc-
tion of the committee of supplies.
N. B. Mr. Devens acted as clerk pro tempore. Col. Gardner this
day was chosen as one of the committee of safety, instead of Deacon
Fisher, who resigned, in consequence of the distance he lives.
town, apprehensive of danger, have been on almost constant duty, without being able to at-
tend to their jirivate uffairs : the consequence of which must produce great distress, if not ruin,
unless they can be relieved. Another very peculiar circumstance attending us is, that in case we
should he attacked, no immediate aid can come to our assistance from the hack country, we being
surrounded by a wilderness, extending several miles, without, any inhabitants at all, and several
more miles with very few and scattering ones. We, therefore, pray your consideration of these
matters, and that you would order the minute regiment under the command of Col. Cotton, to be
posted here, and that proper provision bo made for tliem."
" We are, gentlemen, with great respect,"
" Your very humble servants,"
"JOHN TORRE Y, Chairman, per order of
the committee and selectmen of the town of Plymouth."
" To the hinorablr. thr comnii/te,- of snfety for the proxnnce of the
MafsachuscUf Buy, note sitting at Cambridi^c or cUctrhcrc.'"
1775.J COMMITTEES OE SAFirrV .AND SI IM'IJKS 51?
Aruii, 17, J77.>.
At a meeting of the committees of safety and supplies, at Mr. Tay-
lor's house, in Concord, on Monday, April 17, I7*."> :
Present — lion. John Hancock, Esq., Col. Heath, Col. Palmer,
Capt. White, Mr. Devens, Col. Gardner, Mr. Watson, Col. Orne and
J. Pigeon, committee of snfefi/ : Col. Lee, Mr. Gill, Mr. Cheever, Mr.
Gerry and Col. Lincoln, cmimittce of supplies :
Voted, unanimously, that application he made to Capt. Hatch, for
captain of the artillery company for Boston, 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. Newhall of Charlestown be
applied to ; that the captain for the Marblehead company be not ap-
pointed until the Marblehead members make inquiry and report; that
Capt. Timothy Bigelow be applied to as captain of the Worcester com-
pany ; that Mr. Thomas Wait Foster of Hadley, be applied to as cap-
tain of the company at Hadley.
Voted, That two four pounders, now at Concord, be mounted by
the committee of supplies, and that Col. 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 instructer for the use of the
cannon be appointed, to be put directly in pay.
Voted, unanimously, that six pounds, lawful money, a month, be a
captain's pay in an artillery company, that the first and second lieuten-
ant have four pounds, the lieutenant of fireworks to have three pounds,
five shillings, that the sergeants have forty-two shillings per month ; the
corporals thirty-eight shillings per month, the common 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, on Wednesday, at ten o'clock.
Voted, That the four six pounders be transported to Groton, and put
under the care of Col. Prescott.
Voted, That two seven inch brass mortars be transported to Acton.
Voted, That the two committees adjourn to Mr. Wetherby's, at
Menotomy, [at] ten o'clock.
April 18, 1775.
At a meeting of the committees of safety and supplies, on Tuesday,
the I8th of April, 1775 :
Present — Col. Orno, Co]. Palmer, Col. Heath, Col. Gnrdnrr, Mr.
510 COMMITTEES OF SAFETY AND SUPPLIES. [April 18,
Devens, Mr. Watson, Capt. White, J. Pigeon, cotnmittee of safety :
David Cheever, Esq., Mr. Gerry, Col. Lee, Col. Lincoln, committee of
supplies :
Voted, That the two brass two pounders, and two brass three pound-
ers, be under the care of the Boston company of artillery, and of Capt.
Robinson's [company.]
[The following letter was sent to Capt. Timothy Bigelow.]
Newton, April 17, 1775.
Capt. Timothy Bigelow :
Sir : — The committee desired me to write you, to desire the favor
of your company, next Wednesday, the 19th instant, at Mr. Wether-
by's, at the Black Horse, in Menotomy, on business of great impor-
tance.
Sir, your most humble servant,
J. PIGEON, Cleric.
P. S. The committee meet 'at ten o'clock.
Voted, That all the ammunition be deposited in nine different towns
in this province ; that Worcester be one of them ; that Lancaster be
one, (N. B. Col. Whitcomb is there ;) that Concord be one ; and, that
Groton, Stoughtonham, Stow, Mendon, Leicester, and Sudbury, be the
others. 1
Voted, That part of the provisions be removed from Concord, viz. :
50 barrels of beef, from thence to Sudbury, with Deacon Plympton ;
100 barrels of flour, of which what is in the malt-house in Concord be
part ; 20 casks of rice ; 15 hooshcads of molasses ; 10 hogsheads of
rum ; 500 candles.
Voted, That there be, by the committee of supplies, provided, six
ammunition carts, one to be in each town where a company of matros-
ses is fixed.
Voted, That one company of matrosses be stationed at Worcester ;
one at Concord ; one at Stoughtonham ; one at Stoughton ; one at
Stow ; and, one 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,
(1) In llio otiginul journal tlie words " bo another," are added to the name of each town.
(2) The word " ditto" ia inserted in the original, before the place designated for the station of the
company.
1775.] COMMITTEES OF SAFETY AND SUPPLIES. 517
to^ctlicr with one liundrcd cartridges ol" powder, one hundred and six-
teen tubes, one hundred wads, together with all necessary materials.
Voted, That the towns of Worcester, Concord, Stow, and Lancas-
ter, be provided with two iron three pound cannon each.
Voted, Tliat four lunulred and fifty four-pound-cannon ball be car-
ried from Stougbtonhani to Sudbury.
Voted, That one ton of grape shot be carried from Stoughtonham to
Sudbury.
Voted, That one ton of three pound cannon ball be carried from
ditto to ditto.
Voted, That one half of the two pound cannon ball, now at Stough-
tonham, 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 pow-
der being removed from Leicester to Concord, be reconsidered, and,
that the clerk be directed to write to Col. Barrett, accordingly, and to
desire he would not proceed in making jt up in cartridges.
Voted, That one half of the musket cartridges be removed from Stow
to Groton.
Voted, That the muskets balls under the care of Col. Barrett, be
buried under ground, in some safe place, that he be desired to do it,
and to let the commissary only be informed thereof.
Voted, That the spades, pick-axes, bill-hooks, shovels, axes, hatch-
ets, 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 Sudbury, five
hundred at Concord, and one thousand at Worcester.
Voted, That the two thousand wooden bowls be deposited [in those
towns in the same proportion] as the pots ; and the spoons in the same
manner.
Voted, That the fifteen thousand canteens be deposited [in the same
manner] as the above.
Voted, That the weights and measures be put into the commissary's
hands.
Voted, That two medicinal chests still remain at Concord, at two dif-
ferent parts of the town; three of said chests at Sudbury, in different
parts of the town ; six do. at Groton, Mendon, and Stow, two in each
town, and in different places ; two ditto in Worcester, one in each part
of the town ; and, two in Lancaster, ditto ; that sixteen hundred yards
of Russia linen be deposited in seven parts, with the doctor's chests;
518 COMMITTEES OF SAFETY AND SUPPLIES. [April 20,
that the eleven hundred tents be deposited in equal parts in Worces-
ter, Lancaster, Groton, 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.
[The following letter was sent to Col. Barrett:]
Newton, April 19, 1775.
Col. Barrett ;
Sir : — The committee have directed me to inform you, that the can-
non powder, which last Saturday you were desired 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 do'nt make it into cartridges.
I am. Sir, your humble servant,
J. PIGEON, Clerk.
[April 20, 1775.]
[The following circular letter was sent to the several towns :]
[Gentlemen : — The barbarous murders committed upon our inno-
cent brethren, on Wednesday, the 19th instant, have made it absolute-
ly necessary, that we immediately raise an army to defend our wives
and children from the butchering hands of an inhuman soldiery, who,
incensed at the obstacles they meet with in their bloody progress, and
enratred at being repulsed from the field of slaughter, will, without the
least doubt, take the first opportunity in their power, to ravage this de-
voted county with fire and sword. We conjure you, therefore, by all
that is sacred, that you give assistance in forming an army. Our all
is at stake. Death and devastation are the certain consequences of
delay. Every moment is infinitely precious. An hour lost may del-
uge your country in blood, and entail perpetual slavery upon the few
of our posterity who may survive the carnage. We beg and entreat,
as you will answer to your country, to your own consciences, and
above all, as you will answer to God himself, that you will hasten and
encourage 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 aff'air
demands.] 1
(1) The following letter wns adilreflscd by tlie committee of safety to the govcrnineiUa of the col-
onics of Now Hampsliiro nnd Connecticut.
"Cambkidoe, April 20, 1775."
" On Wednesday, the lOtli instnnt, enrly in the niornin;, a dotiichitient of General Gnse'i army
1775] COMMITTEE OF SAFETY. 511)
Apr 1 1. 21, 1775.
At ;i ineeliiijr of the coininittcc of safety, April 21, 1775, [the follow-
ing] form of enlistment [was adopted:]
I, A. B. do hereby solemnly engage and enlist myself 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
marched into the country to Lexington, nbout thirteen milea from Boston, where they met with a
small party of minute men exercising, who had no intention of doing any injury to tlie regulars ;
but they fired upon our men, without any provocation ; killed eight of them the first onset j 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 rejiulsed the troops, pursuing them
quite down to Charlestown, until they reached a place called Bunker's Hill, although they receiv-
ed a very large reenforcement at Lexington from General Gage. As the troops have now com-
menced hostilities, we think it our duty to exert our utmost strength to save our country from ab-
Boluto slavery. Wo pray your honors would afford us all the assistance in your power, and shall
be glad that our bretliron 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 measures as shall tend to the salvation of our common liberties.
Per order of the committee of safety."
A letter was addressed to General Gage, by Uoct. Joseph Warren, of the same date, which fol
lows :
" Cambridge, April 20, 1775."
•'Sir: — The unhappy situation into which this colony is thrown, gives the greatest uneasiness
to every man who regards the welfare of the empire, or feels for the distresses of his fellow-men,
but even now, much may be done to alleviate those misfortunes which cannot be entirely remedied,
and I think it of the utmost importance to us, that our conduct be such as that the contending par-
ties may entirely rely upon the honor and integrity of each other, for the punctual performance of
any agreement that shall be made between them. Your excellency, I believe, knows very well
the part I liave taken in public affairs. I ever scorned disguise. I think I have done my duty ;
some may think otherwise ; but be assured. Sir, as far as my influence goes, every thing which can
reasonably be required of us to do, shall be done, and every thing promised shall be religiously per-
formed. I should now be very glad to know from you, Sir, how many days you desire may be al-
lowed 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 1 have received that information, I will repair to Con-
gress, and hasten, as far as I am able, tlie issuing a proclamation. 1 beg leave to suggest, that the
condition of admitting only thirty waggons at a time into the town, appears to me very inconveni-
ent, and will prevent the good effects of a proclamation intended to be issued for encouraging all
waggoners to assist in removing the effects from Boston with all possible speed. If your excellen-
cy will be pleased to take the matter into consideration, and favor me, as soon as may be, with an
answer, 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 public affairs, and I must ever confess, whatever may be the event, that you
generously gave me such opening, as I now think I ought to have embraced, but the true cause of
my not doing it, was the knowledge I had of the vileness and treachery of many persons around
you, who I supposed had gained your entire confidence.
Hin Excellency Ocncral Qagc.
I am, &c."
"JOSEPH WARREN.
520 COMMITTEE OF SAFETY. [April 21,
of a part or tlie wliole 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 superior officer.
Resolved, That there be immediately enlisted out of the Massachu-
setts forces, eight thousand effective men, to be formed into companies
to consist of a captain, one lieutenant, one ensign, four sergeants, one
fifer, one drummer, and seventy rank and file ; nine companies to form
a regiment, to be commanded by a colonel, lieutenant 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 purpose ; 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 NewburypoVt, and de-
posited, for the present, in the hands of Capt. Dexter, of Maiden.
Voted, that a courier be immediately despatched to Stoughton, to re-
quire the immediate attendance of Col. Richard Gridley, and his son
Scarborough Gridley, upon this committee.
Voted, That a courier be sent to command the attendance of
David Mason, now upon furlough in Salem.
Voted, That Mr. Mason be ordered to provide one field piece, with
every implement necessary for action, and proceed forthwith to pro-
vide for the remainder, till the whole are in a thorough state of pre-
paration, unless otherwise ordered : the cannon to be provided for
are eight three-pounders, and three six-pounders.
Voted, That orders be given to Capt. Dexter to conceal the can-
non committed to his care, which was accordingly done.
Voted, That 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 an half barrel of hog's fat, from
the town of Salem to the town of Cambridge, by virtue of an order
from Mr. William Bond.
1775] COMMITTEE OF SAEi: TN . 521
Voted, Tliat the goiicral olliccrs be forthuitli desired to make a
return of such ofHcers and soldiers as are already under sufficient en-
gagements to serve in the Massachusetts army.
Voted, That the general officers be desired, with ail possible speed,
to give in a list of such officers as they shall judge duly qualified to
serve as colonels, lieutenant colonels, 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
liorse to attend the surgeons, and convey medicines agreeably to their
directions.
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 Capt. 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 inspect the in-
trenching 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 Hast-
ing's house. 2
(1) Letter from the coiiiinillce of safety to the coininillce of the iiiliabilants of Boston.
" Cambbioge, April 22, 1775."
"Gentlemen: — The committee of safety bring informed, that General Gago has proposed a
treaty with the iiiliubitants of tlie town of Boston, whereby he stipulates, that the women and
children, with all their elYects, 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 eng.ige,
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 those conditions to be just and reasonable, and as the
inhabitants arc in danger of 8uf>"cring from the want of provisions, which, in this time of general
confusion, cannot be conveyed into the town, we are willing you shall enter into and faithfully
keep the engagement aforementioned, said to bo required of you, and to remove yourselves, and
your women, children, and effects, as soon as may be."
" We are, &c."
^2) Tlje committee forwarded the following letter to the Congniss of New Hampshire :
" Cambridge, April 24, 1775."
" Our friends from New Hampshire having shown their readiness to assist us in this day of dis-
tress, we therefore thought it btet to give orders for enlisting such as were present in the service of
66
522 COMMITTEE OF SAFETY. [April 26,
Resolved, That the inhabitants of Chelsea and Maiden be, and here-
by are, absolutely 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 pro-
vincial forces so to do.
April 25, 1775.
Resolved, That the three cannon now at Marlborough, be brought
to the town of Waltham, and mounted on the carriages prepared for
them, till further orders.
Resolved, That Col Freeman, of Sandwich, be directed 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 Col. Paul Dudley Sergeant, of New Hampshire, be
desired, forthwith, to recommend ten persons belonging to the colony
of New Hampshire, to receive beating orders for the enlistment of per-
sons belonging to said colony, until they are discharged by this colo-
ny, or taken into the service of the colony of New Hampshire.
Resolved, That it be recommended to the Provincial Congress, to
reduce the regiments so far, as that the companies 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 honorable
members of the Continental Congress 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 to General Preble, at Falmouth, de-
siring his attendance at Cambridge, as a general officer, or in his pri-
vate capacity.
Oidered, That fifteen of the prisoners at Concord, be removed from
thence to Worcester gaol immediately.
Upon a motion made. Voted, that the secretary of this committee
this colony, uh many iltsirtd somctliiiij; may bu done to liold llicm togetlicr, until the resolve of
your Congress is known, when we ure ready and desirous they should be discharged from us, and
put under such command as you shall direct. Colonel Sergeant has been so kind as to afford his
utmost assistance in concluding this matter."
" Wc arc, (Sec. &.c."
1775] COMMITTKi: oi' SAFETY. r,>:{
be directed and empowered to sign any pnper.s or writings in liclialf of
this committee.
Voted, Thnt Mr. Ephraini Jones, the gaol keeper of Worcester, be
directed to receive lifteeii prisoners from the gaol in Concord.
Voted, Tiuit this committee recommend it to the Provincial Con-
gress, that they make an establishment for such a number of armorers
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 as-
certained what number may be still necessary to be raised in each
town to complete the complement of troops for this colony, and to for-
ward to each town their remaining quotas ; and the men that may
now enlist may be assured, that they shall have liberty to be under the
command of such officers 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 be-
ing under good officers.
Resolved, That the resolve of the twenty-fourth instant, respecting
the inhabitants of Chelsea and Maiden, be reconsidered, and Order-
ed, 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 defence, and exert the
same in such manner, as under their circumstances, their judgments
may direct.
April 27, 1775.
Resolved, That Capt. Derby be directed, and he hereby is directed,
to make for Dublin, or any good port in Ireland, 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 were appointed to each of the general offi-
cers' regiments; and that it be recommended accordingly to the Pro-
vincial Congress.
A letter, dated twenty-sixth instant, was sent to the colony of Rhode
Island, and another of the same tenor was sent to the colony of Con-
necticut, [which are as follow :]
[Cambridge, April 26, 1775.]
[The distressed situation in which we are, and the dangers to which
524 COMMITTEE OF SAFETY. [April 27,
the liberties of all America, and especially the New England colonies
are exposed, will be the best apology for our importunate application to
you for immediate 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 ammuni-
tion : that they come under proper officers, enlisted for such a time as
may be necessary; and, that as large a train of artillery as can be pro-
cured 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 res-
olution ; but as many of them came from home without any prepara-
tion, 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 firm-
ly trust, that, by the blessing of Heaven on us, we shall deliver our
country. We are determined, at all events, to act our part with firm-
ness 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 honor in saving the liberties of America ; as a moment lost may
never be recalled. May God direct you and us at this important mo-
ment, on which the fate of us and posterity depends.]
[We are, gentlemen, with great affection and respect.
Your most obedient servants.]
Ordered, That Col. John Glover take such effectual methods for the
prevention of such intelligence being carried on board the Lively, ship of
war, Capt. Bishop commander, now lying in the harbor of Marble-
head, or any other, as may have a tendency to injure the most impor-
tant cause we are engaged in, and, that he take such eftectual methods
for carrying this order into execution, as shall appear best calculated
to effect this purpose. ^
(1) The following letters were forwarJed by the oomiiiittcc to the selectmen of Boston:
" Cambridge, April 27, 1775."
" It is here currently reported, that General Gage gives out publicly, that the provincials fired
upon his detachment before the troops fired upon the provincials. Such a report occasions aston-
ishment and resentment, as there is the clearest evidence, not only that the troops fired first at Lex-
ington and killed eight men there, before our people fired one gun, but then marched several miles
further to Concord, and Icilled 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 mucli honor to propagate such a false account,
and has been scandalously deceived by his officers. We think it probable, that ten days may suf-
fice for removing your persons and most valuable effects. We hope you will take care, that your
1775.] COMMITTEE OF SAFETY. 5M5
Ai'uii, 28, 1775.
Vuttd, To recommend to the colony Congress, now sitting in AVa-
tertown, and it is recommended accordingly, to make an establishment
for post riders, between tlie Map.sachusctts 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 excel-
lency General Gage's precepts for calling a general assembly.
Doct. Warren was appointed to give the sentiments of this committee
on Lord Dartmouth's circular letter to the other governments.
Voted, That Mr. President Langdon be, and he hereby is appointed,
chaplain of the army in Cambridge pro tempore, and that he be fur-
nished with a copy of this vole.
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 quar-
ters 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 or-
der 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 or any other government, for the enlisting of men for the
service of this province.
Ordered, That the cannon, now in Med ford, be immediately brought
to this town, under the direction of Capt. Foster.
agreement is expressed in tlie most unequivocal terms. We take it, that it is not expected tliat we
sutfur any persons to remove into town besides sucli as mean to take up their residence there."
" We are, tc."
Selectmen of Boston.
Another letter bears date on the same day.
Gentlemen .- — Your letter of the 25th instant, came to hand late last evening, or you should have
had an answer sooner. We feci for you with the keenest sensibility. Nothing on our part shall
be wanting. Our wisli is to know, when you are to be permitted to come out, and at what time.
We shall encourage the waggoners to go in. We have no desire to injure or molest the person or
property of any one wlio inclines to take refuge in Boston, and so soon as we know the day appoint-
ed for you to come out, and the time limited therefor, we shall take care that our part is performed
with that punctuality which we are determined ever to observe in all cases where the honor of our
country or the safety of our beloved countrymen is concerned. We desire that we may, without de-
lay, be furnished with an authenticated copy of your engagements with the general, and such other
information as is necessary for us."
" We are. Gentlemen, &c."
526 COMMITTEE OF SAFETY. [April 29,
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 in-
formed the committee, that the inhabitants of Boston had agreed with
the general, to have liberty to leave Boston 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, agreeably to said agree-
ment, the inhabitants had, on yesterday, lodged 1778 fire-arms, 634
pistols, 973 bayonets, and 38 blunderbusses, with their selectmen.
Voted, That Doct. Warren, Col. 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 the Provincial Congress was read, respecting the removal
of the inhabitants of Boston, whereupon. Col. Orne, Mr. Devens and
Capt. White, were appointed a sub-committee, to take the matter into
consideration, and report as soon as may be.
[The following circular was addressed to the several towns :]
[Cambridge, April 29, 1775.]
[Gentlemen : As many of the persons now in camp, came from their
respective towns, without any expectation of tarrying any time, and
are now under the necessity of returning; this is to desire, you would,
with the utmost haste, send other persons to supply their places, for a
few days, until the enlistments are completed, and the men sent down
to us.
We pray you, immediately, to set about this business, as the most
fatal consequences must follow, if we should be reduced to so weak
a state, as that the army, under General 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 few days, to relieve their
brethren, who have been so long absent from their families.]
Voted, That orders be sent into the neighboring towns, requiring
one half of the militia to be immediately sent to Roxbury and Cam-
bridge, as a reenforccment to our army, and that the rest of the inhab-
itants hold themselves in readiness to march at a minute's warning.
Also, Voted, That Mr. Watson, Capt. White and Col. Gardner, be a
sub-committee, to report the towns to be sent to, the destination of the
reenforcements, and the expresses to be despatched.
1775.] COMMITTEE OF SAFETY. 527
Voted, Tliat the secretary be directed to empower expresses to press
as iiKiiiy lior.ses us they rnay have occasion for,
Votid, That tlie committc*' of supplies, at Watertown, be directed
to attend tliis committee immediately, and that the secretary write
theni accordingly.
I'pon information that the supplies of powder and ball, at Water-
town, were in the keeping of the commissary general, Voted, that
General Ward be desired to apply to the commissary for such a (juan-
tity of said stores as he may have occasion for.
Voted, That Doct. Isaac Foster be directed and empowered to re-
move all the sick and wounded, whose circumstances will admit of it,
into the hospital, and to supply proper beds and bedding, clothing,
victuals, and furniture, with every other article he shall judge proper
for said hospital, 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
upon the commissary for the payment of whatever expenses are neces-
sary for procuring the above mentioned articles.
Fo<c(/, That the secretary desire Messrs. Halls, printers, at Salem, to
print three hundred letters, to be sent to the several towns in the
province.
Capt. Benedict Arnold, with a company, being arrived here from
Connecticut, Ordered, that the commissary general be directed to pro-
vide suitable quarters for said company.
Upon a motion made. Voted, that orders be given to General Thomas
for seizing Governor Hutchinson's papers.
A letter from General Thomas, respecting some companies of min-
ute men at Dartmouth, was read, whereupon. Voted, that Col. Orne,
Col. Palmer and Col. Gardner, be a sub-committee, to consider and
give directions relative to the general's request.
Letters from Col. Hancock, now at Worcester, ^ were read ; where-
upon. Voted, that four reams of paper be immediately ordered to Wor-
cester, by Mr. Barber, for the use of Mr. Thomas, printer, he to be
accountable.
(1) Tlie Hon. John Hancock, on his journey to Philadelphia, to attend the Continental Congress,
was detained at Worcester two days, awaiting the arrival of his colleagues, delegates from Massa-
chusetts, and the attendance of an escort. One of his letters to the committee is printed on pago
170. An application was made for paper to supply the press of Isaiah Thomas. The following re-
commendations for appointments were made during the same visit :
" Worcester, April 24, 1775."
" Gentlemen: — From a conviction of your disposition to promote the general good, I take tho
freedom to request your countenance and good offices in favor of Mr. Edward Crafts, of this place,
that he may be appointed to tlie command of a conii)any. 1 know him well ; he is capable. I beg
528 COMMITTEE OF SAFETY. [April 29,
A letter from Medford was read ; whereupon, Voted, that the com-
pany now raised there, hold themselves in readiness to march at a min-
ute's warning, remaining in Medford till further orders.
The sub-committee on General Thomas' letter, reported, 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 ; [that] the critical situation of our public
affairs demands the utmost exertions of the friends of America; 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 Capt. Goodridge, of the Indian
company, have such a number as is desired.
Voted, That Col. 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 com-
mittee.
Voted, That Capt. Hill and company be furnished with provisions at
any tavern they see fit to call at, in conveying Major Dunbar to a place
of safety, at the expense of the province.
Voted, That Capt. Brown, of Watertown, be desired, upon any ad-
vice of the troops coming out, to order the cannon to a place of safe-
ty, and, for that purpose, be empowered to press horses, cattle, &c.
your attention to this. It will give great satisfaction to Mr. Adams and myself, and to the people
of this county : do gratify us. I 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 capable. 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."
" To the Coiiimitlcc of Safety."
" VVoBCESTER, ."Vpril 26, 1775."
" Gentlemen : — Having had the honor to command the Cadet company at Boston, and knowing
the ability of those who composed that corps, I cannot withhold mentioning, and recommending to
the notice of you and the gi;neral officers, Mr. John Smith, and Mr. John Avery, two excellent
good soldiers, and gentlemen, who will advance the reputation of the province in that department
of command where they may be placed. I therefore most strongly recommend them, and earnestly
pray tliey may be noticcil. I will be answerable for tlieir conduct. There are several other gen-
tlemen of that corps, who may be useful, particularly Mr. Brent and Mr. Cunningham. Do notice
Messrs. Smitli and Avery. They will be useful. I set out to-morrow morning. God bless you.
Why don't you send to Mr. Cralls. Pray improve him. He is a good man, and one on whom you
may depend. Don't miss him."
To the Commitlcc of Safcti/."
" 1 am your real friend,
JOHN HANCOCK."
1775] COMMITTEE OF SAFETY. 529
April 30, 1775.
Capt. Benedict Arnold, captain of a company from Connecticut, at-
tended, and reported, that there are at Ticonderoga, 80 pieces of heavy
cannon, 20 pieces of brass cannon, from 4 to 18 pounders, 10 to 12 mor-
tars ; at Skeenhorough, on tlie Soutli Bay, 3 or 4 pieces of brass camion ;
the fort, in a ruinous condition, is supposed to have about 40 or 45 men,
a nundjcr of small arms and considerable stores ; and thai there is a
sloop of 70 or 80 tons on the lake.
Voted, That an order be given to Major Bigelow, desiring him to
have the province arms, either in Worcester or Concord, immediately
brought to this town.
Voted, That I\Ir. John Chandler Williams be directed to attend this
committee, that he may be employed as an express.
Voted, That tlie committee appointed yesterday, to consider the
state of tlie 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 Doct. Warren, Col. Palmer
and Col. Orne, w^ere appointed to wait upon the Congress with the
proposals.
Voted, That two offices be opened to deliver permits for such per-
sons as desire to enter Boston with their effects.
Voted, That Col. Samuel Gerrish be appointed to the office [of
granting permits,] at the house of Mr. John Greaton of Roxbury.
Voted, That Col. William Henshaw be appointed to the office of
granting permits, at the sign of the sun, in Charlestown.
Whereas, proposals have been made by General Gage to the inhabit-
ants of the town of Boston, for the removal of their persons and
effects into the country, excepting their arms and ammunition : He-
solved, that any of the inhabitants of this colony, who may incline to
go into the town of Boston with their effects, fire-arms and ammuni-
tion excepted, have toleration for that purpose, and that they be pro-
tected from any injury or insult whatsoever. This resolve to be imme-
diately published.
The following orders were delivered to Col. Samuel Gerrish :
You are hereby empowered, agreeably to a vote of the Provincial
Congress, to grant liberty, that any of the inhabitants of this colony,
who may incline to go into Boston 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
67
530 COMMITTEE OF SAFETY. [May 2,
Boston. The following form of a permit is for your government, the
blanks in which you are to fill up with the names and number of the
persons, viz. :
Permit A. B., the bearer hereof, with his family, consisting of
persons, with his effects, fire-arms and ammunition 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, That Andrew Craigie be appointed to take care of the medi-
cal 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 appointed to the post of quar-
ter master general of the army.
May 1, 1775.
Voted, That the quarter master general be directed to clear that
chamber in Stoughton College, occupied by S. Parsons, Jr., for a
printing office for Messrs. Halls.
Whereas, many of our brethren of the colonies of Connecticut and
Rhode Island are now with us, to assist in this day of public and gen-
eral distress, in which we are all deeply concerned : and, whereas, our
brethren of said colonies have brought with them some of the paper
currencies of their respective colonies, which have not, of late, had a
currency with us, and for want of which, our common interests 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 mat-
ter, [to find] what colonies have such currencies, to alter this resolve
agreeably thereto, and to present the same to the honorable Congress
for their consideration.
[^Votcd, That the Rev. Mr. Gordon have free access to the prisoners
detained at Worcester and elsewhere, and that all civil magistrates and
others be aiding and assisting him in examining and taking deposi-
tions of them and others.]
May 2, 1775.
Dott. Warren, Col. Palmer and Col. Gardner, [were ;ij)pointed] a
1-75.J COMMITTEE OF SAFETY. r,:M
siil)-committco, to coiiHt witli fjoiieral W.ird, rthitivc t<j the proposal
made by Col. Arnold of Connecticut, lur an attempt upon Ticonde-
roga.
A nunil)cv of recantations, from the town of Marblehead, havinir
been laid before the committee, for their opinion, as to the propriety
of receiving them :
Voted, That it is tlie opinion of this committee, tliat said recanta-
tions be received, and that the persons making them, be made acquain-
ted with the proclamation lately issued by Congress, respecting those
[who] may incline to get into Boston ; and that it be recommended to the
inhabitants of this province, that they be protected from all injuries or
insults wliatsoever, so long as they adhere to their several recantations,
now before this committee, and continue to assist and abide by their
country, and the inhabitants of Marblehead in particular, in the im-
portant 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, re-
specting the whale boats at Falmouth, and other ports 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 to order 200 pounds of gunpowder, 200 pounds of lead
balls, and 1000 flints, and also ten horses, to be delivered unto Capt.
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 immedi-
ate 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 discharged from service, as soon as the public
good would admit of it : and that Col. Thayer be furnished with two
sets of enlisting papers for this purpose.^
Voted, That General Thomas be, and he hereby is directed and em-
powered to stop the trunks mentioned to be in Col. Taylor's hands,
until this committee send some proper persons to examine their con-
tents.-
(1) This vote was reconsidered May 4tli.
(2) The foUowins is a letter from General Thomas, dated May 3, 1775 :
"Gentlemen: — In consequence of directions from tlie committee of safety, I sent an olTirpr,
532 COMMITTEE OF SAFETY. [May 3,
Resolved, That agreeably to a vote of Congress, General Thomas
be directed and empowered to appoint suitable persons, to accompany
such people into the country as may be permitted to bring their
effects into Boston, upon the conditions mentioned in the proclama-
tions posted up, and that General Thomas give such general orders
as he may judge the common safety requires.
Voted, That Col. Arnold, appointed to a secret service, be desired
to appoint two field officers, 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 Massa-
chusettss Bay to be raised for the defence of the rights and liberties of
America; the officers and privates to be dismissed by Col. Arnold, or
the committee of safety, whenever they shall think proper.
Voted, That the committee of supplies be desired to procure ten
horses for Col. 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 colony stores, for the support of
the prisoners under his care, who have or may be committed by the
orders of the council of war or of this committee.
The quarter master general having informed that some persons un-
known had made spoil of liquors in the cellars of General Brattle, and
Mr. Borland, and others, whereupon, Voted, that he be 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 that they be then committed to the care of the
commissary general.
[A letter to the governor and company of the colony of Connecti-
cut was reported, accepted, and is as follows :]
[Cambridge, May 2, 1775.]
[We yesterday had a conference with Doct. Johnson and Col. Wol-
on whom I could tloi)on(l, to the liouso of Governor Hutchinson, who hroiight olT iill tho papers lie
could find in that house ; but I was informed that Colonel Taylor, of aiilton, had lately taken sev-
eral trunks out of the governoi's house, not many days ago, in order to secure them from being
plundered. I immediately sent another messenger to Col. Taylor, for all the papers that belonged
to Governor Hutchinson which he had in his possession ; ho sent me for answer, he did not know
of any papers that belong to said Hutchinson, but just now comes to inform me that there are seve-
ral trunks in his house, which he took as aforesaid, which ho expects will be sent for very soon.
I suspect there may be papers in said trunks, and if it is thought proper, two or three judicious per-
sons bo sent to break open and search for papers, he will give them his assistance. This, gentle-
men, is submitted to tho consideration of the honorablo committee."
" I have, gentlemen, tho honor to subscribe myself, your most obedient humblo servant,
JOHN THOMAS."
"RoxBVRY Camp, May 2, A. n. 1775."
i77r>.] COMMITTEE OF SAFETY. r,:):3
cot, wlio 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 tliose generous and anbctionate sentiments which you en-
tertain toward us. But you will allow us to express our uneasiness on
account of one paragraph in your letter, in which a cessation of hos-
tilities is proposed. We fear that our brethren 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
most unreasonable pretensions for retarding their removal from that
garrison. Our sea posts 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 done or thought of in this colony. No agree-
ment or compact with General Gage will, in the least, alleviate our dis-
tress, as no confidence can possibly be placed in any assurances he
can give to a people whom he has first deceived, by taking possession of
and fortifying the town of Boston, and whom he has suffered his army
to attack in the most inhuman and treacherous manner. Our relief
now must arise from driving General Gage with his troops out of the
country, which, by the blessing of God, we are determined to accom-
plish, or perish in the attempt, as we think it better to meet an honor-
able death in the field, whilst fighting for the liberties of all America,
and far preferable to be butchered in our own houses, than 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 Ameri-
can 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.]
[ To the Governor and Company of Connecticut. '\
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 com-
panies to be joined to such regiments in future,, as they may be or-
534 COMMITTEE OF SAFETY. [May 4,
dered to, should there be occasion, or discharged from service as soon
as the public good will admit of it.
Voted, That the quarter master general be directed to pay the strict-
est attention, that the household furniture of those persons, who have
taken refuge in the town of Boston, may be properly secured, and dis-
posed of in places of safety.
The following orders were given Col. Arnold, relative to an attempt
upon Ticonderoga, viz. :
To Benedict Arnold, Esq., commander of a body of troops on on ex-
pedition to reduce and take possession of the fort of Ticonderoga :
Sir : — Confiding in your judgment, fidelity, and valor, we do, by
these presents, constitute and appoint you, colonel and commander in
chief over a body of men not exceeding four hundred, to proceed, with
all expedition, tothe western parts of this and the neighboring colonies,
where you are directed to enlist those men, and with them, forthwith,
to march to the fort at Ticonderoga, and use your best endeavors 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, &c., 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 procure 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 public interest, for which this shall be your suffi-
cient warrant.
BENJAMIN CHURCH, Jun.,
[For the'] committee of safety.
By order,
WILLIAM COOPER, Secretary.
Cambridge, May 3, 1775. -
May 4, 1775.
[Moved and Voted, That the vote passed the second of May, respect-
ing the raising of two companies in Braintree, be reconsidered, and
that the copy of said vote together with the two enlisting papers, be or-
dered to be returned into the hands of said committee of safety ; and
whereas, a petition from the towns of Braintree, Weymouth, and Hing-
ham, hath this day been presented to this committee, setting forth the
exposed situation of those towns, and praying for such relief and pro-
1775.] COMMITTEE OF SAFETY. 535
tection as may be thought proper,' therefore, Votrd, that the town of
Braiiitrce he hereby empowered to raise one company, the town of
Ilingham another company, and the town of Weymouth half of one
company, 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 tliey may be ordered to, sliould there be occasion, or dis-
charged from service on the last day of December next, or sooner if
(1) Tlio petition of tlio selectmen of Braintrec, VVejmoutli, and Hingliam, follows:
" To the honorable Committee of Sufcty now sitting at Cambridge :
" The petition of tlio selectmen of Braintrce, Weymoutli, and Hingliam, humbly sliewcth : that
the several tdvvns to which they respectively belong, are in a defenceless state, and as we appre-
hend, in great danger of an attack from tlie troops now in Boston, or from the ships in the harbor;
more especially, as they are now, or will soon 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, at an
expense which we are by no means able to bear, which is no real defence unto us. Besides all that
has been said, the inhabitants of the said towns have boon, and arc still likely to be, in our present
situation, almost constantly kept in tumult and disorder, and unable to keep about their business,
to their great damage."
" Your petitioners therefore, humbly pray your honors, to take our distressed state into your wise
and serious consideration, and grant us, at least, the return of those men that have enlisted into 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 PEXXIMAN, ^
EUm/'.NU SOPER^' I Sehetmen of Braintrce.
JONATHAN BASS, )
JAMES HUMPHREY, )
SA.MUEL KINGMAN, \ Selectmen of Weymouth.
EBEN'R COLSON, )
JOSEAiTyDREWS, ! ^''«^"'^'« '•fHingham.^^
h'eymouth, May 3, 1775.
A petition for powder and arms was received from the committee of Brunswick :
Brunswick, Mav 3, 1775.
" Gestlemen : — We, whose names are hereunto subscribed, beg liberty to inform you of our sit-
uation, as we are chosen by this town to examine into the circumstance of it, which we have done,
and find the town very deficient as to arms and ammunition, and have sent by water to Salem, but
have just had our money returned back without arms or ammunition ; at presont, we have not more
than one quarter of a pound of powder to a man tliroughout the town, nor more than one firelock to
two men ; and in this defenceless state, we are obliged to apply to you to assist our trusty friend
whom we have sent, Capt. Nathaniel Larrabee ; and as we think it would be unsafe to transport
powder by water, we have orderod him to take only one hundred weight, and for him to consult
with yoQ how and in what way it would be safest to get arms and more powder down to us. We
sliould esteem it as a favor, to be informed from you, by way of letter, at every convenient op-
portunity, of our public afl"airs."
" We are, gentlemen, yours, ever to be commanded,
AARON HINKLEY,
BENJA. STONE,
SAMUEL STANDWOOU,
JAMES CURTIS."
536 COMMITTEE OF SAFETY. [May 4,
the public 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, re-
spectively.]
Resolved, As the opinion of this committee, that the public 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 gover-
nor and company of the colony of Connecticut, requesting the speedy
march of three or four thousand of their men, which was accepted, and
ordered, that a fair copy be transmitted immediately. [It is as fol-
lows :]
[Cambridge, May 4 1774.]
[The distressed situation in which a wicked and despotic adminis-
tration have involved this colony, will justify us in your eyes, as we
presume, in our present most earnest and pressing desire, that you will
immediately send us three or four thousand men of your establishment,
in order to enable us to secure a pass of the greatest importance to our
common interest, and which the enemy will certainly possess them-
selves of as soon as their reenforcements arrive ; and if they once get
possession, it will cost us much blood and treasure to dislodge them ;
but it may now be secured by us, if we had a force sufficient, without
any danger ; therefore, we earnestly repeat our request for three or
four thousand men for this present purpose, with all possible despatch,
and supported with all necessary stores of ammunition and provisions ;
and we would beg, that they may be forwarded in companies or regi-
ments 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.]
[ To the Governor and Company of Connecticut.']
Voted, That William Cooper, Jun., be appointed a clerk to this
committee in the room of Mr. Palmer, appointed quarter master gener-
al ; Samuel Cooper was added as an assistant.
Voted, That a chest of medicines be removed from hence to Rox-
bury, under the care of General Thomas.
There having been eight guns sent in for the use of the colony. Col.
Whitcomb and General Heath were appointed to appraise the same,
who reported as follows, viz. : one gun taken of Capt. How, apprais-
ed at ^2 ; one ditto of Joel Brigham, X2 ; one ditto of John Baker,
1775] COMMITTEE OF SAFETY. 5:17
£1 Ss. ; one ditto of Aaron Agar, £'2 8s. ; one ditto of James Stone,
ofc'l Is.; one ditto of Asa Fay, £1 10s.; one ditto of Aaron Fay, £\
Is. 4fl. ; one ditto of William Bctliank, iSs. ; total, £8 9s. id.
Mvinorandum, Col. 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, [and is as follows :]
[Cambridge, May 4, 1775.]
[It is with great satisfaction this committee received your letter of
the second 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 tlie unalienable rights of
America,]
A draught of a letter to the governor 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 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 eidist, may have leave to de-
part as soon as it can be done with safety to the colony.
Voted, That Col. Gardner be appointed to lay this vote before the
council of war.
Voted, That it be recommended to the council of war, that six com-
panies 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 reg-
iments, whicii 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.
(I) Thf letter lo Rliojo Iblaiul was in llic same wonU wiili ilrit sent ti> C<ii)iicclii.ul.
538 COMMITTEE OF SAFETY. [May 1,
Voted, That Col. Palmer and Col. 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, Doct. Church, Col Palmer, and
Mr. Devens, were appointed to confer with the council of war, upon
the occasion.
Voted, That Col. Bricket be desired to take possession 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 uneasiness may
arise in the army, by the appointment of surgeons who may not be
agreeable to the officers and soldiers in their respective regiments,
therefore. Voted, that it be recommended to the Congress, to allow the
colonel of each regiment to nominate the surgeon for his regiment ;
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 com-
plained 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 Bab-
cock there, and that the above vote be sent to the council of war for
their approbation ; which vote being sent, it was approved of accord-
ingly.
Resolved, That it be, and hereby is recommended to the selectmen
and committee of correspondence for the town of Sudbury, that they
use their utmost influence, that the effects of Col. 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 provisions being carried into the town of Boston,
as may be sufficient for that purpose.
[The following letter to the chairman of the committee of safety
and protection of Albany, was accepted, and ordered to be forwarded.]
[Sir : — We have received your important and very agreeable let-
ter of May current, by the worthy gentleman. Captain Barent Ten
Eyck. While we lament the effusion of the blood of our friends and
fellow countrymen, shed by more than brutal cruelty, urged on by the
corrupt administration of a British minister of state; yet, amidst all
our sorrows on that mournful occurrence, we rejoice greatly, at the
177.-,.] COMMrrPKK ()!•' SAFETY. r>'.i{)
bright prospect lying bofore us, in tlie unaniniily of the cohtiiics on
this extended continent. We have the highest satisiaction in the assur-
ance from you, that the citizens of Albany continue firmly and resolute-
ly to cooperate with their brethren in New York and with the several
colonies on tiie continent, in their opposition to the ministerial plan
now prosecuting against us, and that the city have unanimously ap-
pointed a committee of safety, protection and correspondence, which
we esteem as a necessary measure to bind us all in one indissolul)Ic
bond of union in the common cause of the American colonies.]
[Be assured. Sir, that we shall ever esteem it as our honor and in-
terest to correspond with you, at all times, on matters tending to pro-
mote 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 in the important aid the general cause
will receive from our sister colony. New York. The enclosed, you
may depend upon it, is a well authenticated account of the late en-
gagement in this colony, and supported by a great number of affida-
vits.]!
[Permit us to say, Sir, that you may rely upon the resolution of the
people of this colony to exert themselves, in every possible way, and
that they have, long since, devoted their lives and fortunes in the glo-
rious 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 neighbors, repeatedly and untimely poured out, cries
aloud to tlie survivors to defend the American rights for which they
bled and died. We have their wounds fresh in mind, and while the
colonies are united, we have the fullest assurance, under God, of the
salvation of our country.]
[We are, Sir, affectionately,
Your very humble servants.]
[In Committee of Safety, Cambridge, May 7, 1775.]
May 9, 1775.
Moved and Voted, That the Congress be desired to direct their sec-
retary to furnish this committee with copies of all such resolves as have
passed the Congre.ss in any ways relative to the duty enjoined this com-
mittee, and as the circumstances of this colony are very different from
(I) Thr nnrmtivi- will l)p found in tlin Apprndix.
540 COMMITTEE OF SAFETY. [May 10,
what they were at their first appointment, the committee would repre-
sent to the Congress, that they apprehend it is necessary, that the whole
of their duty may be comprised in a new commission.
The council of war having determined that two thousand men are
necessary to reenforce the army now at Roxbury, and that, if possible,
the reenforcement be brought into camp the ensuing night ; this com-
mittee took the vote of the council of war into consideration ; there-
upon, Ordered, that the commanding officers of the towns of Dorches-
ter, Dedham, Newton, Watertown, Waltham, Roxbury, Milton, Brain-
tree, Brookline, and Needhara, immediately 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 Mr. Borland was appraised by Col. Palmer and Col.
Orne, at forty shillings, and delivered Col. Sergeant, for which he is
to be accountable.
A vote passed, recommending it to the Provincial Congress, 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 Co-
hasset, for the immediate defence of the sea coast of said district :
the said company to be joined to such regiment in future, as it may be
ordered to, should there be occasion, or discharged from service as
soon as the public good will permit.
Voted, That Nathan Cashing, Esq. be desired forthwith to engage
four armorers, for the service of this colony, and order them immedi-
ately 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 batteaux,
whale boats, and other vessels, will immediately, or very soon, be
wanted in Charles river and other places , and as there is not a suffi-
cient number of such vessels to be now obtained, it is therefore Re-
solved, that it would be of public 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, [was] empowered to impress a car-
riage or carriages, for the bringing down oars from that town to Cam-
bridge.
177.-,.] COMMITTF.i: OF SAFETY. r>n
Voted, 'I'liat orders be issued to the colonels of tlic several regi-
ments, to repair with the men they luive enlisted, to Cambridge, im-
mediately.'
The Provincial Congress having resolved, that the general 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 camps 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. :
CAMBRiDfii:, May 10, 1775.
Sir : — As we are meditating a blow against our restless enemies, we
therefore enjoin you, as you would evidence your regard to your coim-
try, forthwith, upon the receipt of this order, to repair to the town of
Cambridge, with the men enlisted under your command.
We are, &/C.
Voted, That the following letter, signed by Benjamin Church, Jr.,
as chairman of this committee, be transmitted to Joseph Warren, Esq.
president of the Congress, to be communicated, viz. :
Sir : — Conformable to the order of Congress, the committee of
safety, with the council of war, have issued orders to the several col-
onels, a copy of which we enclose you : upon receiving the return,
those who have completed their regiments will be commissioned, agree-
ably to the direction of Congress ; those who find it impracticable to
fill their companies, must be incorporated into other defective regi-
ments, which is the only plan the committee find themselves able
(1) The orders appear to have heen founded, in part, on some communications like the follow-
ing, sent from Boston :
"iMoNDAY, 8 .Mat, 1775."
" An old campaigner says, he knows by the movements, that there is a stroke meditated somo-
where, and likely to be to-niglit ; he thinks a feint [will be made] at the neck to divert, and a large
body [sent] 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 lories and troops are very vigilant."
May 10, 1775.
" Elijah Shaw declares, that Gen. Gage's officers have said iu his hearing, that they shall soon
come out, and that a soldier requested him to convey him into the country, for the troops would
soon make a push either towards Dorchester neck or Chelsea ; but he refused. He further declares,
that Earl Percy swears he will be revenged on some of our men : and further says, that the troops
have robbed him of U cows, 3 calves, a yearling heifer, 48 sheep, 61 lambs, 4 hogs, and poultry,
hay 5 tons, and almost all bis furniture."
542 COMMITTEE OF SAFETY. [May 12,
to suggest on this emergency, but should there finally be a deficien-
cy, enlisting orders must be given to others.
Yours, &-C.
On a motion made and seconded. Ordered, that William Goodwin
have orders to fetch a number of boats from Charlestown, and like-
wise orders to press teams for the same purpose.
Mr, William Goodwin, of Charlestown, was directed and empow-
ered 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 accounts 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 neighboring regiments, were direc-
ted forthwith to repair to the town of Cambridge, with the men enlist-
ed under their command.
May 11, 1775.
Voted, That Mr. William Cooper, Jr., be, and he hereby is ap-
pointed, a clerk to Doct. Warren, president of the Congress.
May 12, 1775.
Voted, That Mr. Charles Miller be, and he hereby is appointed,
deputy commissary to Mr. Pigeon, the commissary general.
Voted, That orders be given to Mr. Clark, boat-builder, 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 Branch be, and he hereby is appointed,
one of the armorers for the colony forces.
The following is the report of a joint committee, appointed by the
committee of safety and the council of war, for the purpose of recon-
noitering the highlands in Cambridge and Charlestown, viz. :
1775] COMMITTEE OF SAFETY. 543
We have carefully exnniinod tlio lands, and thoir situation, in rcjrard
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 breast work 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 breast work [to be] raised at
the north side of the road, opposite the said red house, and to 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 [to be] planted there:
also a strong redoubt [to be] 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 the sub-committee from the committee of safety.
WILLIAM HENSHAW, chairman
of the sub committee from the 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 that the high lands above mention-
ed are important, yet not being the proper judges what works are ne-
cessary to be constructed, to make said posts tenable, are of opinion
that the determination of this matter rests solely with the council of
war.
BENJAMIN CHURCH, Jr., 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 re-
specting the suspending the orders of Congress respecting the removal
of the persons and effects of the tories, and ordering the crown officers
through the continent to be apprehended :
Resolved, That the recommendation of the council of war, respect-
ing 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 determina-
tion thereon.
544 COMMITTEE OF SAFETY. [May 14,
Voted, That this committee adjourn to Congress, upon matters of
great importance.
May 13, 1775.
Voted, That Capt. 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.
Voted, 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 Roxbury, until the surgeons for the respective regiments are regu-
larly appointed.
Voted, That the provisions and chest of medicines belonging to
Madam Vassal, now under the care of Col. Starks, be stored as Col.
Starks may direct, till further orders : and that the other packages may
pass into Boston or elsewhere.
Ordered, That the commissary general or his deputy be, and he
hereby is directed, to supply Col. Rosseter 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 enlist-
ed into the colony army, under Col. Jonathan Brewer, are now posted
at Waltham, and are receiving provisions from the public stores : Re-
solved, that the commanding officer of the colony forces be desired
to order said enlisted men at Waltham, immediately to repair to head
quarters, and in case of refusal, that orders be given for the preven-
tion of their being supplied with provisions of any kind from the pub-
lic magazines.
One Thomas Nicholas, a negro, brought before this committee on
account of his suspicious behavior 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 armorers for the
army, and General Thomas was desired to accommodate him with a
suitable place at Roxbury, for carrying on his business.
Ordered, That Mr. Isaac Bradish, keeper of the jail in Cambridge,
be directed and empowered to confine one Thomas Nicholas, negro,
till further orders.
May 14, 1775.
Ordered, That the commissary general supply with provisions, for
six days, four men of Capt. William.s' company, and three men of
1775] COMMITTEE OF SAFETY. rvlo
Capt. Noldc's company : — llicso men camo down with Col. Patterson,
and are returning home, being dismissed.
Voted, That Capt. John Currier have one set of ideating orders for
Col. Fry's regiment , and in case it sliouhl not be consented to by the
colonel, he agrees to join that reginiciit which shall be thought most
convenient.
Mr. Andrew Craigie, commissary of the medicinal stores, &-c., was
directed and empowered to impress beds, bedding, and other necessa-
ries for the sick, as they may be wanting, giving the owners a receipt
for such articles as he may take for the purpose aforesaid.
Jic.folvcd, Tiiat it be recommended to the committee of supplies, to
engage ninety-seven barrels of tar, in the sloop Adventure, Samuel
Foot, master, just arrived at Salem from Virginia, it being apprehend-
ed, that the service 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 conduct, respecting his ap-
pearing in favor of carrying into execution the tyrannical designs of
administration for the enslaving of this province : upon examination of
the evidences 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 forth for the defeoce of his country, and that so long as he
evinces this disposition, by his conduct, and does not any more attempt
to go into the town of Boston, that he be received with the favor of
his countrymen, and that no insult nor injury be offered him or his
property.
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. Snake island, and from that
part of Chelsea near the sea coast, and be driven back ; and that the
execution of this business be committed to the committees of corres-
pondence 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 Col. Palmer and Col. Orne be directed to appiv to
the committee of supplies, at Watertown, for a particular account of the
69
546 COMMITTEE OF SAFETY. [May 15,
ordnance and military stores, and where the same are deposited, agree-
ably to the request of the council of war.
Voted, That it is the opinion of this body, that all persons escap-
ing from their imprisonment in the town of Boston, ought to be receiv-
ed and protected in the several towns in this and the neighboring col-
onies, except such as are of principles inimical to the liberties of their
country, 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, committees 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 Col. Fellows, 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 committee of supplies,
that they had secured as many naval stores as Col. Gridley of the train
had indented for, Voted, that Capt. Foot be permitted to deliver his
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 Capt. Joseph Foster,
Thomas Jenkins, James Lammans, John Rutherford, Jonathan March,
J. Mensh, J. Simmins, J. Crost, of Col. 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 repair-
ing 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 committee of supplies
for a particular account of the ordnance and military stores, reported,
and handed in to the committee the following list, viz. :
17:->.] COMMITTKi: or SAI'I/IN 517
A List of Militart/ Stores under the earc of (Japt. Foster, viz. :
At Cdinbridi^c ; — pick axes, 4G0 : liatclicts, 23 : seven-iiicli shells,
298 : spades, 190 : pieces of cannon, 24 : axes, 15(5 : boxes of grape
shot, 41 1-4: hogsheads of dints containing 75, COO, 2 : carpenter's
tool chests, 2 : boxes of axes, 4 : 4 barrels 1 cask leaden balls ; boxes
small arm cartridges, 18 : barrels of bomb fnses, 1 : barrels of matches,
1: chests of tin cannisters, 2: boxes of paper for cartridges, 1 : nine
pound ball, 007 : six-pound balls, 1123 : four- pound ditto, 200 : two-
pound ditto, 800 : seven-inch shells, 298 : twenty-four pound ball, 122 :
three-pound ball, 620 : No. 1 and 2 paper cartridges for cannon boxps,
2 : one barrel containing four tube cannisters, IC straps, 4 packs,
4 powder horns, 5 skeins dry matches : 1 barrel 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 cart-
ridges.
Under the care of Col. Barrett and Capt, Ileywood.
Musket balls, 9,000: grape shot, 1,600: bar lead, 700: musket
cartridges, about 3,000 weight : 3 barrels of bandages.
More at Cambridge, under the care of Capt. Foster.
2 casks of tubes : 1 barrel, marked, 60 cases with flannel cartridges
for three pair single fortified guns : 2 barrels containing case shot,
part fuses and tubes : 1 barrel containing a number of paper cartridges
not filled : 2 casks of cases with flannel cartridges, marked I. T. T.
Attest, ALEXANDER SHEPHERD, Jr.,
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 Medford, if enlisted
into this colony's service, under Col. Stark or Col. Sargent, and pro-
perly 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 Capt. John Walker of Worcebter, who came down to
this committee for liberty to go into Boston, upon the proclamation
issued by Congress, be apprehended and confined as a prisoner of war,
548 COMMITTEE OF SAFETY. [May 15,
he being an 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 Col. Phipps be
permitted to have a cow, calf, and a load of hay, to go into the town
of Boston : passed in the negative.
Voted, That Capt. Naler Hatch [with the] Maiden company be as-
signed to Col. Gardner's regiment, but they are to remain in Maiden
until the special order of Col. Gardner shall be received for their
attendance elsewhere.
Voted, That nine Indians, of Col. Porter's regiment, have liberty to
return home, and that the commissary general be directed to furnish
them with six days' provisions for that purpose, the same having been
recommended by the council of war.
Upon the application of Lady Frankland, Voted, that she have lib-
erty to pass into Boston with the following goods and articles for her
voyage, viz. :
6 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 Guard :
Permit Lady Frankland of Hopkinton, with her attendants, goods,
and the provisions above mentioned, to pass to Boston, by express
order of the committee of safety.
BENJAMIN CHURCH, Jr., Chairman.
Head Quarters, May 15, 1775. *
Voted, That the letters and writings from New York, via New Lon-
don, 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 Col. Porter's regiment be dismissed
from the service, and that he be furnished by the commissary with
seven days' provisions.
Voted, That Jonathan Blaisdel of Amesbury, be appointed an ar-
morer for the army.
Resolved, That 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
1775] COMMITTEE OF SAFETY. 549
many of the three companies now at Mr. Borland's, to tlic honse of
Doct. Knccland, as the house can accommodate, and that tlie tliree
companies at Mr. Vassal's house, be placed at Mr. Fo.vcroft's house, and
that Mr. Borland's house be cleared and cleansed as soon as possible.
Resolved, That it be recommended to the honorable Congress, that
the records of the probate oflice for the county of Middlesex, supposed
to be at Mr. Danforth's and Doct. Kneeland's houses, be removed to
Doct. Minot's, at Concord, and, that the records of the county at Mr.
Foxcroft's office, be removed to said Minot's house.
The following certificate was delivered Mr. Goddard, viz. :
This is to certify, that Mr. John Goddard, has been appointed
by the joint committees of safety and supplies as waggon master to
this colony, to convey such articles of stores from one part of this col-
ony to another as the public exigency may require, under the direc-
tion of the commissary general and the ordnance store keeper, and,
that such other waggoners or drivers are to be employed, as he shall
recommend for that purpose.
The following permit was given to Capt. Walker.
Permit Capt. John Walker, now on his parole of honor, to pass un-
molested to his family at Worcester.
Mr. John Goddard, waggon master, was directed and empowered, in
case of emergency, to impress such waggons and cattle as shall be re-
quisite for the public service.
Voted, That the clearing Mr. Borland's and Mr. Vassal's houses be
suspended till further orders.
Voted, That Thomas Austin, of Charlestown, be, and hereby is ap-
pointed an armorer for the array.
Voted, That the above vote, appointing Mr. Thomas Austin one of
the armorers for the army, be, and hereby is reconsidered.
May 16, 1775.
In a letter from Col. 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 man-
ufactory ; therefore, Resolved, that Col. Barrett, be, and he hereby is
directed and empowered, to remove said prisoner from Worcester to
said Boice's manufactory in Milton.
550 COMMITTEE OF SAFETY. [May 17,
Voted, That Capt. Hill, and four men, with four prisoners, have an
order for supplies on the taverners and innholders 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 : Re-
solved, 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, agreeably to the recommendation of the council of
war.
Voted, That Capt, 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 (he estab-
lishment for ten companies of matrosses :
Captain, £6 10s. per month; captain lieutenant, £5 10s. per
month; first lieutenant, <£4 10s. per month; 2 second lieutenants,
each, £3 12s. per month; sergeants, each, ^2 10s. per month;
corporals, each, £2 6s. per month ; six bombadiers, each, £2 4s.
6d. per month ; six gunners, each, £2 4s. per month ; 32 matrosses,
£2 3s. per month.
Voted, That Col. Gridley have one set of beating orders, for a com-
pany of matrosses.
Voted, That Col. Azor Orne have one of the college arms, he giv-
ing a receipt for the same.
May 17, 1775.
Whereas, it is determined, in council of war, that ten swivels be
immediately provided for the use of the army, and delivered in camp,
at Cambridge :
Resolved, That a copy of the foregoing vote be transmitted to the
committee of supplies, and that they be desired to procure said swivel
guns immediately.
Resolved, That the three pieces of cannon, with the stores, now at
Waltham, be immediately removed to Watertown, near the bridge, by
advice of the general, and that Mr. Elbridge Gerry, one of the com-
mittee of supplies, be desired and empowered to remove the same.
Ordered, That Col. Orne, Doct. Church and Col. Palmer, be a
committee to repair to the Provincial Congress, and request, that
forthwith, the duty of the committee 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 to justify the
conduct of said committee, so far as their proceedings are correspon-
dent with the trust reposed in them ; and to inform [the Congress]
1775] COMMITTEE OF SAFETY. 551
that until tlio |)atli of tlicir duty is clearly pointed out, they must bo at
a total loss how to conduct, so as to stand justified in their own minds,
and in the minds of [the j)eoj)Ie of] this colony.
Mr. William Beman, in Col. Fellows' regiment, is appointed by this
committee to act as an armorer for the forces posted at Roxbury.
Resolved, That Mr. Joseph Austin, of Charlestown, be directed to
attend upon this committee of safety, immediately.
Voted, That Col. Fellows be directed to procure a shop and tools,
and every material necessary for an armorer, 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 ac-
count 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 are kept in proper repair.
Voted, That the selectmen of Cambridge be directed to supply Gen-
eral Ward with four half barrels of powder, for the use of this colony.
Whereas, General Gage has not kept his agreement with the inhab-
itants of the town of Boston, but, notwithstanding his said agreement,
has prevented, and even refused, said inhabitants, with their effects,
from removing into the country ; therefore, Resolved, that it be recom-
mended to the Congress, that they rescind their resolution of the 30th
ultimo, permitting the inhabitants of this colony to remove, with their
effects, into the town of Boston, which resolution was founded upon
said agreement.
Resolved, That Col. Orne and Col. 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 Capt. How be directed to restore
the six sets of enlisting papers, which he this day took out without the
consent of the committee, 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 suspected, by means of his, said
Mellicant's wife having free access into and out from the town of Bos-
ton, of conaiuuiiciiliiig such intelligence to our enemies as may have a
552 COMMITTEE OF SAFETY. [May 19,
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 commit-
tee of correspondence of the town of Waltham be, and hereby are di-
rected and empowered, to take such effectual methods, for the prevent-
ing 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 wis-
dom, shall seem meet.]
May 19, 1775.
Voted, That Capt. John Lane have enlisting papers delivered him,
for raising a company of Indians at the eastward.
The following certificate was delivered Col. Gerrish, for the Provin-
cial Congress :
Col. Samuel Gerrish having satisfied this committee that his regi-
ment 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, inn-
holder in said Watertown ; it being recommended by General Ward.
The committee of correspondence of the town of Northborough,
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 regi-
ment is full, it was recommended to the Congress that said regiment
be commissioned accordingly.
The following letter of direction to the several colonels, was for-
warded, viz. :
Sir : — The necessity of completing the colony army, and the suspi-
cions 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
said returns, that commissions may be issued, and due subordination
take place.
Voted, That Mr. John Wood, of Roxbury, be, and hereby is ap-
pointed, an armorer for the army.
1775] COMMITTJOK OF SAFETY. 5o3
Voted, That Mr. Dike, of Bridgwater, be, and be hereby is appoint-
ed, an armorer for the army.
General Thomas was informed, by letter, that the committee had
appointed Messrs. Beman, Shaw, Wood and Dike, as armorers for the
forces posted at Ro.xbury, and [was] desired to acquaint the committee
if any further appointments were necessary.
Voted, That Doct. Church have an order for a horse and sulky, and
a single horse, for his journey to Philadelphia upon the province ac-
count.
[Whereas, some persons have hinted that Samuel Barrett, Esq., 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 3uggestions 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 colonies,
and from his acts and explicit declarations, we have reason to think
that he is friendly to the rights and liberties of this, his native coun-
try, and we recommend him accordingly.]
May 20, 1775.
Voted, That Capt. Edward How, Ebenezer Cutler, and Nicholas, a
black fellow, now under guard, be sent up to Congress for examina-
tion and trial, and Capt. White is appointed to attend Congress, with
the above named persons.
Voted, That the general be desired to furnish a guard for the occa-
sion.
Voted, That for the future, no person having orders to impress hor-
ses, shall impress the horse of Deacon Timothy Winn, of Woburn, he
and his horse being employed in the colony service.
Resolved, That it is the opinion of this committee, as the contest
now between Great Britain and the colonies respects (he 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 rais-
ing, but only such as are freemen, will be inconsistent with the princi-
ples that are to be supported, and reflect dishonor on this colony, and
that no slaves be admitted into this army upon any consideration what-
ever.
Col. Joseph Read having satisfied this committee, that his regiment
is full, a certificate was given him of the same, and it was recommend-
ed to the honorable the Provincial Congre.ss, that his regiment might
be commissioned accordingly.
70
554 COMMITTEE OF SAFETY. [May 23,
Col. Read had thirteen sets of regulations for the army delivered
him by order.^
May 23, 1775.
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 individuals, but also the public, and
strengthens the hands of our enemies ; therefore, Resolved, that it be
recommended to the honorable Congress, to take some effectual meas-
ure to secure the stock on the islands and sea coasts, to prevent its fal-
ling into the hands of our enemies.
The following orders relative to furnishing one of the expresses with
provisions, horses, &c., were issued, viz. :
(1) The following letter was addressed to General Preble.
Cambridge, May 20, 1775.
Honorable General Preble,
Sin: This committee, received your favor of the fifteenth 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 establishing an army of thirteen thousand six
hundred men, thought the exigencies of the times and the exposed situation of the several towns near
Boston, made it absolutely necessary, that the army sliould be immediately raised, and, that for the
facilitating of this important business it was expedient that orders should be issued to such men as
were recommended as proper persons for such important trusts. Accordingly, orders were issued to
BS 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 array with all possible speed ; and in consequence
of that determination, among others. Col. 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 honor, that Col. Phinney has received enlist-
ing orders from you, and has engaged in the business of enlisting men to complete a regiment ; and
we are further informed by your honor, that it is impracticable that two regiments should be raised
in the county of Cumberland, and being told by Col. Phinney, that many of the men that would bo
raised in your county, could not be supplied by the towns from which they are enlisted, with fire-
arms and blankets, tliis committee, taking into consideration the exposed situation of your county
and the probability of the army's being completed without drawing men from those parts of the col-
ony which are more immediately exposed, would recommend, Sir, that you would use your influ-
ence, that a stop be put to the raising any men in your county until it may be known by the
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, this committee will endeav-
or to give you such early intelligence as may be necessary. The request of this committee to your
honor, we flatter ourselves, will not be conceived by you as carrying in it the least disrespect to
Col. March or Col. 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 honor at head quarters, which we hope your health will soon admit, and with you
we join in the hope of soon seeing a speedy end to the great dilficultics this distressed colony now
labors under.
We are, Sir, with the great respect, your honors humble servants,
P. S. Please to inform the within niontionod colonels, of this determination.
Yours, &c.
1775] COMMITTEE OF SAFETY. 5r»5
To all innkeepers, tarcrnn-s, and othvr jxn^tnis w/ioui il nunf ron-
ccrn :
You are desired to furnisli the boarer, Mr. John Chaiidh'r Williams,
with all necessaries upon his jonrnoy and return, as also with liorses,
if necessary, and to exhibit the accounts to the committee of safety for
this colony, as he is now upon the country service.
M.\Y 2G, 1775.
The following warrant, for supplying an express on the colony ser-
vice, was issued :
To all innkeepers, taveriicrs, and other persons whom it may con-
cern :
You are desired to furnish the bearer, Mr. John Gill, with all neces-
saries upon his journey to, and return from Rhode Island, as also
with horses, if necessary, and to exhibit your account to the commit-
tee of safety for this colony, he being an express on the colony service.
The following certificate was given Dr. Bond :
Doct. Nathaniel Bond, of Marblehead, having been charged before
this committee, with having acted an unfriendly part to this colony,
said committee appointed Joseph Warren, Esq., Col. Thomas Gardner,
and Lieut. Col. Joseph Palmer, as a court of inquiry to examine wit-
nesses 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 gen-
eral behavior has been friendly to American liberties, and though he
may have discovered an imprudent degree of warmth in some instan-
ces, 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 [men], hoping, that, as the error which occa-
sioned his being brought before this committee, appears to have been
altogether involuntary, and was such as several of our most firm
friends were led into by false rumors spread of the transactions of the
nineteenth instant, no impressions to the doctor's disadvantage may
remain on the minds of any person whatsoever.^
(1) The commission given to the committee of safety by the Provincial Congress, May 18, 1775,
is entered in the original record at length. It will be found in the preceding journals, page 240.
The lion. Benjamin Grconleaf having been elected a member of the committee of safety, declin-
ed the acceptance of the office, by the following letter to Mr. Secretary Freeman.
"Newburvport, May 26, 1775."
" Sir : — I yesterday received your letter of the nineteenth instant, informing me, that the Trovin-
556 COMMITTEE OF SAFETY. [May 21,
This committee have taken into their most serious 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
24,500 men ; whereas, 30,000 were supposed to be necessary ; and said
committee also find a considerable number of officers of minute men
now at head quarters, who, with their men, cannot find room for employ-
ment in the army upon the present 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, &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 estima-
ted ; and as said army, or any part thereof, may be disbanded at any
future time, when the public safety will admit thereof, and as the pub-
lic military spirit now runs high, it is therefore. Resolved, that the con-
sideration of these premises be recommended to the honorable Con-
gress ; and that Col. Palmer be directed to attend said Congress with
this resolve, in order to know whether they will make any addition to
their present establishment.
May 21, 1775.
[This committee have often contemplated the mode of ascertaining
the completion of the several regiments, and find no clear and explicit
rule to their satisfaction, and therefore, beg leave to suggest to the
honorable 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 said honorable Congress.]
cial Congress had done me the honor of choosing me a member of the committee of safety, and that
they requested my attendance without delay. 1 readily exert myself on every occasion that pre-
sents, as far as I am able, to jiromote such measures as have a tendency to relieve the country from
its present difficulties 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 public
or myself, for which reason, I have to entreat the indulgence of the Congress, while I ask to be ex-
cused from that service ; assuring them I cannot be an indifferent observer of the scene that is now
acting ; but, as I liave hitherto attended to our public affairs, as far as my health would permit, al-
most 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 Tmust
necessarily submit to, as a member of that committee."
" I am, with respect, Sir, your most liuniblc servant,
B. GREENLEAF."
1775] COiMMlTTKi: OF SAFETY. r,.-,7
May 22, 1775.
Wlicrcas, it appears to this committee, tliat no immediate service
renders it necessary, that riders shoidd be kept in pay at present, tliere-
fore, Voted, that all such riders as have been employed by this com-
mittee, be from this day discharged from said service. ^
May 24, 1775.
Voted, That the commissary general be directed to supply John
Carter, and three others, with provisions as armorers and coopers, now
in the province service.
Col. Scammon having satisfied the committee, that his regiment was
nearly full, a certificate was given him thereof, and it was recommend-
ed to the Provincial Congress, that his regiment be commissioned ac-
cordingly.
Resolved, That it be recommended to Congress, immediately, to
take such order respecting the removal of the sheep and hay from Nod-
dle's island as they may judge proper, together with the stock on the
adjacent islands.
Voted, That the commissary general be directed to supply twenty-
five men of Capt. Sprague's company, who are stationed at Chelsea.
May 26, 1775.
The Congress having passed a resolve, that the house of John Vas-
sal, Esq., be appropriated for the use of the committee of safety, there-
(1) General Ward, having represented to Congress, that the army were deficient of arms, and
that a supply of plunk was needed for the artificers, and complained of the delay in furnishing these
articles, tlie letters were transmitted to the coinmitteo of supplies. The answer shows, that the
wants of the troops were not occasioned by defect of diligence, and indicates the feeling excited by
any suspicion of neglect.
In Committee of Slti-lies, JMav 22, 1775.
To the Honorable Provincial Congress :
The letters which we have this day received from General Ward, through your honorable Con-
gress, carry with them an impression whicli the committee cannot conceive they deserve. We are
conscious to ourselves of having discharged the heavy duty of our office, to the utmost of our power
with fidelity, and we think, the general, on consideration, must acknowledge it ; nevertlieless, after
we had issued an advcrtisomcnt in the Essex Gazette, for collecting all the colony arms, tlio Con-
gress are troubled with tlie affair, as if the committee had not used every proper exertion in the
transaction of the affair. But, what wo think most hardly of, is the matter of the plank. We re-
ceived a memorandum and ordered it to be provided immediately. The owner of the mill had not
procured them yesterday, but engaged to have them in readiness by Tuesday morning, and we di-
rected the boatmen to apprise the general of this.
We shall, in justice to ourselves, expect an explanation of this matter, whenever the affairs of
the colony can be a little settled, from the general ; and, in the interim, wo think it necessary to re-
move any unfavorable impression from the minds of the members of the honorable Congress.
With respect, your humble servant,
DAVID CIIEEVER, per order.
585 COMMITTEE OF SAFETY. [May 27,
fore, 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 committee, that
their regiments were in a good [state of] forwardness, a certificate to
that purpose was given them ; and it was recommended to the honor-
able Provincial Congress, that said regiments be commissioned accord-
ingly-
Colonels Patterson and William Prescott having satisfied this com-
mittee, 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 committee, that
their respective regiments are full, a certificate was given them there-
of; and it was recommended to the Provincial Congress, that said regi-
ments be commissioned accordingly.
Colonels Asa Whitcomb, Frye, and Doolittle having satisfied this
committee, that their respective regiments were nearly full, a cer-
tificate was given them thereof; and it was recommended to the hon-
orable the Provincial Congress, that said regiments be commissioned
accordingly.
Col. Walker having satisfied this committee, that his regiment was
complete, a certificate was given him thereof; and it was recommend-
ed to Congress, that said regiment be commissioned accordingly.
Col. Donaldson having satisfied this committee, that his regiment is
in good forwardness, a certificate was given him thereof; and it was
recommended to the honorable Congress, that said regiment be com-
missioned accordingly.
May 27, 1775.
Col. Mansfield having satisfied this committee, that his regiment is
in good forwardness, he had a certificate thereof, and a recommenda-
tion to Congress, that the regiment be commissioned accordingly.
Mr. Wesson, keeper of Thomas Oliver, Esquire's farm, had orders to
secure any creatures that might be put into his inclosures by ill-dispos-
ed persons, and to inform the committee thereof
Voted, That agreeably to the recommendation of General 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, Estj's farm, had orders to se-
1775] COMMITTEE OF SAFETY. 669
cure any creatures that might be put into his inclosures by ill-dispos-
ed persons, and to inform the committee tiicreof.
[The following letter was sent to the Provincial Congress :]
[Gentlemen : — This committee having received information from
sundry persons, selectmen of the town of Waltham, respecting the con-
duct of Major Abijah Browne, of said Waltham, informing, that he,
the said Browne, at sundry times and in sundry places, did utter many
things disrespectful and reflecting on the conduct of the honorable
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 the
matter, with the evidence respecting the same, to your honors, that
you may be furnished with such light as may enable you to determine
thereon, as to you in your wisdom shall seem meet.
We are, your honors, most obedient humble servants.]
May 28, 1775.
A number of guns taken from some persons in Grafton, were ap-
praised by a sub-committee appointed for that purpose, and delivered
Luke Drury, for the use of his company, and a receipt taken in the
rough minutes; as, reference thereto being had, will particularly ap-
pear.
May 29, 1775.
A number of letters taken from Robert Temple, Esq., by the com-
mittee of safety of Cohasset, were sent to this committee for examina-
tion, and though the committee think that the matter is not strictly
within their commission, yet considering that the present Congress
must be dissolved this day, and the good and safety of this colony may
be effected by an immediate examination of said letters, therefore, Re-
solved, 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 examination, appear necessary to promote the
greatest good of this colony.
Voted, That a committee be chosen to draw up a certificate 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
560 COMMITTEE OF SAFETY. [May 29,
Robert Temple, Esq., and this committee have 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 con-
troversy 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 committee of Cohasset, who have stop-
ped 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 recom-
mended to the committee at Cohasset, to deliver Mr. Temple, such ar-
ticles of his as are now in their possession, 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.^
Col. Q,uincy, of Braintree, having proposed to this committee the
erecting of a small defensive work against the depredations of our en-
emies upon the farms in his neighborhood, [they] do refer the matter
to the council of war.
Col. Fellows having satisfied this committee that his regiment is
full, he had a certificate thereof; and a recommendation that said regi-
ment be commissioned accordingly, was given him for the honorable
Congress.
It being expected that the present Congress will be dissolved this
night, and hearing that one volume of copies of Mr. Hutchinson's let-
ters, are in the hands of Capt. McLane, at the upper paper mills, in
Milton, which volume may be of use to this colony, if in the hands of
the Provincial Congress ; therefore. Resolved, that the Rev. Mr. Gor-
den, of Roxbury, be desired and empowered to receive from said Capt.
McLane, all such copies as are in his hands, or in any other hands,
(1) Robert Temple, Esq., subsequently, presented the following representations to the committee.
" I, Robert Temple, of Ten Hills, near Charlestown, New England, do declare, that I have re-
ceived no injury to my property, nor have I been under any apprehensions of danger to cither my
person or property from tlie troops tliat are under the command of General Ward. But, it is a fact,
that I have been so threatened, searched for, attacked by the names of tory and 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 I lived, made it necessary or prudent for mo to fly from my
home. I am confident, that this is owingto 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. I 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."
" Plymouth, Mtiy 31, 1775."
1775.] COMMITTEE OF SAFETY. 5(51
and to be accountable to the present or some future Congress for tlie
same.
May 30, 1775.
FJislia Lettinwell wa.s directed to proceed witli two teams to Chelsea,
and bring up 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.
May 31, 1775.
The committee met, by adjournment, at Watertown, being the day
appointed by charter for the election of councillors, when the Con-
gress convened, and. had a suitable discourse delivered [before] them
by Mr. President Laiigdon, at the meeting-house, where the committee
attended in the afternoon. Afterwards they met, and adjourned, to
meet at Cambridge, on Tuesday morning, at eight o'clock.
June 1, 1775.
On a motion made by Mr. Samuel Whittemore, of Gloucester, that
the forces now raised in said town, and in Manchester, should remain
there for the present, for the security of the sea ports : Voted, that
there be returns immediately required of the number of men now in
camp, and if it shall then appear that the safety of the whole will per-
mit of it, the request will be granted.
June 2, 1775.
A gun taken from Samuel Flagg, of Grafton, for the use of the col-
ony, was appraised by a committee, appointed for that purpose, at forty
shillings, lawful money ; which gun was delivered Capt. Luke Drury,
for the use of his company, and a receipt taken from him in the rough
minutes.
Col. John Nixon having satisfied this committee that his regiment is
in good forwardness, he had a certificate thereof, and a recommenda-
tion to the Provincial Congress that said regiment be commissioned
accordingly.
JuxNE 3, 1775.
Voted, That Mr. Devens be a committee, to join Col. Putnam, from
the council of war, as a committee to wait upon the committee of sup-
plies for a conference, and to desire their attendance at head quarters.
Voted, That Col. Gridley be required to make immediate return of
the regiment of artillery.
June 5, 1775.
A number of officers belonging to Col. John Nixon's regiment, were
71
502 COMMITTEE OF SAFETY. [June 10,
recommended to the Congress to be commissioned ; and a list of said
officers ordered to be put on file.
Col. Glover having satisfied this committee that he has about four
hundred and sixty men in his regiment, a certificate was given him to
that purpose, and it was recommended to the honorable Congress that
said regiment be commissioned accordingly.
The honorable the Provincial Congress having, by their committee,
inquired of this committee what progress has been made in raising a
regiment for the train : Resolved, that the honorable Congress be in-
formed that this committee have given out enlisting orders to raise
nine companies, and that they will immediately procure a return, and
forward it to the Congress.
June 9, 1775.
A number of officers, belonging to Col. Whitcomb's regiment, were
recommended to the Congress to be commissioned ; as by copy of the
list on file.
Two small arms, taken from General Brattle's house, were appraised
by Capt. White and Mr. Devens, a committee appointed for that pur-
pose, at one pound six shillings and eight pence ; which guns were de-
livered Capt. Joseph Stebbins, for the use of his company, and a re-
ceipt taken for the same in the rough minute book.
Resolved, That the armorers repair no fire-arms for any soldier,
without a certificate from his commanding officer, and that they keep
an exact account of what arms they repair, and the soldiers' names to
whom they belong ; also what regiment they belong to ; and also that
the arms that first come be first repaired ; and that this vote be trans-
mitted to the several armorers in the colony service.
Capt. Ilall, of Mistick, having informed the [committee] that a par-
cel of spars were brought on this side [of] Mistick bridge, Voted, that
Mr. Ilall be desired to remove them to such a place of security as he
shall judge proper, till the further order of this committee.
Voted, That Capt. Ebenezer Winship have the recommendation of
this committee to the honorable Congress, for being commissioned,
with his subalterns, in Col. Nixon's regiment.
June 10, 1775.
Whereas, a return has been made by Col. John Glover, of the state
of his regiment, now at Marblehead, and it appearing to be for the
safety of this colony [that] said regiment should continue for the pres-
ent at said Maiblehead, therefore, Resolved, tliat Col. John Glover be,
and he hereby is directed, to continue said regiment, under his com-
mand, at Marblehead, until further orders, and that he hold them in
17i.-i.| COMIMiri'KK OF SAFR'I'V. r,(J;{
readiness to mnrcli. at a iiiiimtcs uariuii;(, to any post wlicic lie may
l)C directed ; and that he lill up said regiment as soon as ])ossible.
Whereas, sundry pieces of mowing land, belonging to |)ersons who
have left this town, have upon tlwMU considerable (|uantifies of grass,
which, if not cut soon, must diminish much in (juantity, and as hay
will be wanted for the use of this colony, therefore, Resolved, that it
be recommended to the honorable Provincial Congress, that they ap-
point a committee of Congress to view said pieces of land, and act
thereon as to tliem, in tlieir wisdom, sliall seem nieet.
Voted, That Col. Learned be empowered to appoint one armorer
and an assistant, for the army at Roxbury, provided he can obtain
tools and accommodation for them.
A list of the gentlemen who have been commissioned, or who have
received any encouragement for commissions, was sent to Congress, a
copy of which is on file, [and is as follows :]
The following return was sent in to the Provincial Congress,
In obedience to a resolve of the honorable the Provincial Congress,
" that the committee of safety certify to the Congress the names of
such gentlemen as arc candidates for the command of a regiment, with
the number of privates, &:-c." This committee now report, that be-
sides twenty gentlemen to whom they have given certificates, viz. :
Col. Asa Whitcomb, General Ward, Lieut. Col. Ward, Col. Glover,
Col. Fry, Col. Learned, Col. Read, Col. Nixon, Col. Fellows, Gene-
ral Thomas, Lieut. Col. Bayley, Col. Bridge, Col. Cotton, Col. Walk-
er, Col. Prescott, Col. Scammon, Col. Donaldson, Col. Patterson, Col.
Gardner, Col. Mansfield, Col. Gerrish ; General Heath took out ten
sets of orders, and has raised a full regiment, which has done duty in
the army for several weeks, as he has informed this committee, but has
made no return in writing, nor applied for a certificate : Col. David
Brewer has received ten sets of orders, but has made no returns,
though we hear he has enlisted a number of men as rangers : Col.
Robinson has applied to tliis committee for a recommendation, in con-
sequence of a petition signed by ten companies, the copy of which
petition accompanies this report. The coinmittee promised Col. Rob-
inson that they would recommend him, if there should be a vacancy.
Col. Woodbridge informs this committee, and it appears, that 300 men
stand ready to go under him. The committee w-ould observe, that
Col. Woodbridge has been in the camp, with his minute men, doing
duty ever since the battle, but did not apply to this committee for en-
listing orders, until the committee iind issued orders suftlciont to com-
564 COMMITTEE OF SAFETY. [June 10,
plete the army, and therefore tlie committee did not give him orders,
but promised they would recommend him, if there should be a va-
cancy.
Col. Porter, now in conjunction with Col. Patterson, and, by agree-
ment with Col. Patterson, to have the chief command in the regiment,
officiated some time in that capacity, waiting for the men raised by
Col. Porter's orders to arrive ; but they not arriving so soon as expect-
ed, another officer with several companies arrived, and offering to
join Col. Porter's regiment, Col. Porter said he was willing to resign,
rather than the public service should be hindered. Since this, we are
informed by Col. Porter, that the men raised by his order are upon
their march to Cambridge.
Col. Henshaw expected to have the command of a lieutenant colonel
in General Ward's regiment, but the dispute between him and Col.
Ward having been already laid before the Congress, and acted upon ;
we would further represent, that he has signified to this committee,
that a number of companies incline to go under him, as by his return
which accompanies this report.
About five or six weeks past, Mr. Greenleaf applied to this commit-
tee, desiring that the men raised in and about Newbury might not be
annexed to Col. Gerrish's regiment, or any other where it would be
disagreeable to them. He afterwards applied to this committee re-
specting said men, and desired that the eight companies enlisted upon
orders issued by this committee, through Col. Gardner's hand, who
have since petitioned in favor of Col. Little's taking the command of
them, might be put under him as colonel of a regiment. We then found
we had given orders for as many regiments as would complete the es-
tablishment made by this colony, and therefore did not give Col. Little
any orders to raise a regiment, but promised that if any vacancy should
happen he should have the preference. We find said companies were
early in the field, and have done duty ever since, and are very well
equipped.
Early after the 19th of April, this committee sent two sets of beat-
ing orders to the Hon. General Preble, desiring him to give out such
orders to such persons as were suitable for commissions, in order to
form a regiment ; and Col. March was also supplied with ten sets of
orders, for the purpose of raising a regiment, to be commanded by
him. Soon after, it was represented to us, by the committee of cor-
respondence of Falmouth, that it would be inconvenient to that coun-
ty, in their exposed situation, to raise men for the army, and the same
was agreed to by Colonels Phinney and March, and this committee : on
1775] COMMITTEE OF SAFETY 5(V>
which we wrote to General Preble, informing him of the same, hut
heard notliing further, until about six days past, we received a return
from Col. Pliirniey of about five hundred men enlisted in a regiment
to go under his connnand, and Col. March certified that he agreed to
come in as his second, a copy of which letter to General Preble ac-
companies this report.
Col. Sergeants case having been represented to Congress, the copy
of said representation accompanies this report.
The committee beg leave further to represent, that the reason why
more enlisting orders were delivered out than were sufficient to enlist
the number of men established by Congress, was an apprehension that
the province was in the utmost danger for want of men , the commit-
tee not being able to prevail on the militia and minute men to tarry in
camp, and there being but few men enlisted at that time, obliged us to
issue further orders.
June 12, 1775.
The committee not apprehending that it was necessary to detain
Eliphalet Hill, of Newbury, any longer, as a rider in the colony ser-
vice, he was dismissed therefrom yesterday.
Shubael and Joseph Sever, of Framingham, entered into the colony
service, as armorers, the 10th instant.
Capt. Lawrence, in Col. Prescott's regiment, offering to act as an
armorer without any pay for his labor, and to return home for some
tools w hich are necessary to effect the repairs of the muskets, it was
consented to by the committee, and the said Lawrence was desired to
procure his tools as soon as may be.
JuxE 13, 1775,
Jonathan Stickney, in Col. Woodbridge's regiment, received a small
arm of one Guillam, a scholar, for which he gave a receipt in the
rough minute book, to deliver the same again to this committee, when
so required.
Whereas, it is daily expected, tliat General Gage will attack our
army now in the vicinity of Boston, in order to penetrate into the
country, it is of the utmost importance, that said army be, in every re-
spect, prepared for action as soon as possible, therefore. Resolved, that
the general be desired, to order each colonel in the army, to make im-
mediate return to him of the state and equipment of the respective
retriments, setting forth what number of men are destitute of arms, and
what arms are fit for immediate service; and, that this vote be laid be-
fore the general as soon as may be.
566 COMMITTEE OF SAFETY. [June 14,
Mr. Devens was appointed a committee, to inquire of the committee
of supplies, relative to the quantity of powder in their possession, and
where the same is.^
On a motion made. Resolved, that the debates and determinations of
this committee be kept in profound secrecy by its members and their
attendants, until further order of this committee.
Whereas, Daniel Adams, of Boston, a lunatic, now in camp at Cam-
bridge, occasions great disorders in said camp, therefore. Resolved,
that the selectmen of the town of Woburn be, and they hereby are di-
rected and empowered, to take into their custody and care the above
mentioned Daniel Adams, and make such provision for him, at the ex-
pense of this colony, as his circumstances, being peculiar, may require,
and also for the guards while there.
Whereas, frequent complaints have been made to this committee, of
the waste and destruction of the property of some persons who have
left their habitations in sundry towns in this colony, and taken refuge in
the town of Boston, therefore, Resolved, that it be recommended to the
honorable Congress now sitting at Watertown, that they take the above
into their consideration, and act thereon, as to them in their wisdom
shall seem meet.
The committee earnestly recommended to the honorable Congress,
that the representations from the quarter master general, be taken into
immediate consideration, especially as the committee, from their own
knowledge, find the rooms too much crowded, and the healths and lives
of the soldiers thereby greatly exposed; and if tents cannot be imme-
diately furnished, that some barracks be forthwith erected.-
June 14, 1775.
Whereas, this committee are informed, that Doct. How, of Andover,
is prepared to receive [insane patients,] and is well skilled in such disor-
ders as Daniel Adams, of Boston, sent on the 13th instant, to the town
of Woburn, is affected with, therefore. Resolved, that the selectmen of
the town of Woburn, be, and they hereby are released from keeping
said Daniel Adams in the town of Woburn, and they are required to
provide a horse and carriage, with provisions, to forward the said
Adams to Andover, the expense of which will be paid by this colony.
(1) Forty-six lialfbairels of i)o\v(Ier upio ill llie mn^azino at AVatoitown ; four lialf barrels of
cartridges had been scut to Caml)ridgo ; and tliiity-fivo half Ijarrels of jiowdcr were expected from
Worcester county.
(2) Tlio quarter master !;cneral represented, tliat lliero was frreat want of lents and barracks, and
that the least delay in making jirovision for the shelter of llie troops, uonld be altondcd willi injuri-
ous consequences.
1775] COMMITTEE OF SAFETY. 5G7
Resolved, That Daniel Adams, a lunatic, now at Woburn, be car-
ried to the town of Andover, and committed to the care of Doct. How,
and tlie said Doct. How is hereby desired to take proper care of the
said lunatic, at the expense of this colony.
A number of men belonging to the company of Capt. Drury, having
petitioned that they might be permitted to join, some, the regiment
commanded by Col. Gardner, and others, the regiment commanded by
Col. Nixon ; and the committee having considered their several re-
quests. Voted, as the opinion of this committee, that said company be
joined to such regiment as it shall appear the major part of said compa-
ny are in favor of, when called upon for that purpose.
lic.^oh'cd, That Capt. White, and Mr. Devcns, be a committee to
proceed to the house of Thomas Ireland, of Charlestown, and find out
whether a certain infamous woman, who calls herself Jackson,
be there, and if slic can be found, order her to head quarters, they be-
ing sent furnished with an order from the general, for a file of men for
that purpose.
General Heath having satisfied this committee, that his regiment is
near full, a certificate was given him thereof; and it was recommend-
ed to the honorable Congress, that his regiment be commissioned ac-
cordingly.
Mr. Nathaniel Mulliken having represented to this committee, that
on the 19th of April last, his house was plundered and burned by the
soldiery ; at which time he lost a pair of silver shoe buckles, which he
says he is well informed arc in the possession of a sergeant of the o2d
regiment, now in Concord jail ; it is the desire of this committee, that
the committee of correspondence for said town, with whom they think
it properly belongs, would make inquiry into this matter, and if tliey
find it to be as has been represented, that they would use their endeav-
ors, that the said Mulliken may have justice done hini by the delivery
of said buckles,
Two guns taken from John Borland, Esq's house, for the colony
service, were appraised by Messrs. Devens, Watson, and Orne, at
twenty-seven shillings and thirty-three shillings, which guns were de-
livered William Hudson Ballard, for the use of his company, and a re-
ceipt taken for the same in the rough minute book.
Upon reading a letter from General Thomas, in favor of Capt. Israel
Henrick, Resolved, that this committee, do not think the matter con-
tained in said letter comes within the conmiission of this committee,
and therefore, refer it to the honorable Congress.
568 COMMITTEE OF SAFETY. [June 15,
June 15, 1775,
The following resolve respecting the allowance for provisions to the
soldiers in the Massachusetts army, passed at the Congress, June 10,
1775.
Resolved, That each soldier in the Massachusetts army shall have
the following allowance per day, viz. :
Article 1. One pound of bread.
Art. 2. Half a pound of beef, and half a pound of pork, and if pork
cannot be had, one pound and a quarter of beef ; and one day in seven
they shall have one pound and a quarter of salt fish instead of one day's
allowance of meat.
Art. 3. One pint of milk, or if milk cannot be had, one gill of rice.
Art. 4. One quart of good spruce or malt beer.
Art. 5. One gill of peas or beans, or other sauce equivalent.
Art. 6. Six ounces of good butter per week.
Art. 7. One pound of good common soap for six men per week.
Art. 8. Half a pint of vinegar per week per man, if it can be had.
Ordered, That Capt. Benjamin White, and Col. Joseph Palmer, be
a committee to join with a committee from the council of war, to
proceed to Roxbury camp, there to consult with the general officers on
matters of importance, and to communicate to them a resolve this day
■passed in this committee, respecting Bunker hill in Charlestown, and
Dorchester neck.
Whereas, this committee lately applied to the honorable the Con-
gress of this colony, for an augmentation of the army now in the vicin-
ity of Boston, and as some circumstances have since taken place, which
strengthen the arguments then used in favor of the said augmentation,
particularly, that many of the then expected reenforcements for Gener-
al Gage's army have arrived ; that General Gage has issued a very ex-
traordinary proclamation, in which the inhabitants of Massachusetts
Bay are in the most explicit manner declared rebels^ ; and various ac-
counts have been brought to this committee of the movements of Mr.
Gage's army, and that he intends soon to make another attempt to pen-
etrate into the country ; from the consideration of all which premises
together with that of our army :
Resolved, That the good and welfare of the colony requires, that
there be an immediate augmentation of said army ; that such soldiers
{\) The proclamation of General Gage is printed in the journals of Congress, page 330.
ir/.-.j cuMMri"n:i: of safki'y. r^m
ill the army as arc destitute of arms be immetliately supplied tliercwilli;
tliat such regiments of militia as are in any degree destitute of oflicers
be immediately filled up in such manner as the lionorable Congress
may direct; and, that all the militia in the colony be ordered to hold
themselves in readiness to march on the shortest notice, completely
equipped, liaving thirty rounds of cartridges per man ; all which is
earnestly recommended to the immediate consideration of the honora-
ble Congress now sitting at Watertown ; to which the committee
would beg leave to add, a general recommendation to the people to go
to meeting armed, on the Lord's day, in order to prevent being thrown
into confusion.
Whereas, it appears of importance to the safety of this colony, that
possession of the hill called Bunker's hill in Charlestown, be securely
kept and defended, and also, some one hill or hills on Dorchester neck
he likewise secured, therefore, Resolved, unanimously, that it be re-
commended to the council of war, that the above mentioned Bunker's
hill be maintained by sufficient forces being posted there, and as the
particular situation of Dorchester neck is unknown to this com-
mittee, tliey desire that the council of war take and pursue such steps
respecting the same, as to them shall appear to be for the security of
this colony.
Ordered, That Capt. Benjamin White, and Col. Joseph Palmer, be
a committee to join with a committee from the council of war, to pro-
ceed to Roxbury camp, there to consult with the general officers on
matters of importance, and to communicate to them a resolve this day
passed in this conmiittee respecting Bunker's hill in Charlestown, and
Dorchester netk.
June 16, 1775.
The committee took into consideration the resolves of Congress,
relative to barracks ; whereupon. Voted, that Mr. Watson, Mr. Cush-
ing and Doct. Holten, be a committee to make inquiry whether any
houses or tents are to be obtained for the troops that want cover.
The commissary general was directed to furnish Messrs. Joseph and
Thomas Austin, armorers in the colony service, with provisions as
wanted.
Col. Gridley's captains and subalterns for the train, were this day
recommended to Congress to be commissioned.
Mr. Burbeck was recommended as lieutenant colonel in Col. Grid-
ley's train of artillery, Mr. Scarborough Gridley as first major, and
Mr. David Mason as second major, in said regiment of artillery.
570 COMMITTEE OF SAFETY. [June 18,
June 17, 1775.
Colonels David Brewer and Jonathan Brewer, having made returns
of the field officers, and officers of nine companies of their respective
regiments, it was recommended to the Provincial Congress, that they
might be commissioned accordingly.
[The following order was issued to the towns in the vicinity of
Boston.]
[ To the Selectmen of the Toivn of ]
[Gentlemen : — You are ordered instantly to send all the town
stock of powder you have to the town of Watertown, saving enough
to furnish one pound to each soldier.]
The following was voted to be sent Mr. John Badger, viz. :
Sir : — As the safety of the colony army demands that any person
or persons suspected of having the small pox, be immediately placed
in such place as may prevent its spreading in said army, and your
house is thought proper for that purpose, you are directed immediately
to quit said house, that the person now suspected may be placed
therein.
The following vote was laid before the committee of supplies, viz. :
As, in consequence of our late movements, a constant fire is kept
up on the colony troops, we think it necessary that there should be
quick intelligence brought to head quarters from the scene of action :
we therefore desire that this committee may be immediately furnished
with four of the best riding horses for the service aforesaid. i
June 18, 1775.
A letter was forwarded to the commanding officers of the militia in
the neighboring towns, for the march of their respective regiments, as
per copy on file, [which is as follows :]
(1) The committee of supplies inform tlie committee of safety, that they are unable to furnish
horses to send tlie summons for the militia by express. They add, "we are sensibly concerned
for the expenditure of powder, and as any great consumption by cannon may be ruinous, on our
side, we think it proper to inform you, that exchislve of thirty-six half barrels of powder received
from the governor and council of Connecticut, tliere are only in the magazine twenty-seven half
barrels, and that no more can be drafted from the towns without exposing them more than they will
consent to."
The following circular was addressed to the towns :
Chamber of Supplies, Watertown, Jl'ne 18, 1775.
Gentlemen :— Tho welfare of our country again induces us to urge your exertions in sending to
the magazine in this jiluco, w hat can be procured of the following articles ; salt pork, beans, peas.
1775.1 COMMITTEE OF SAFETY. 571
Camdridge, JiNF. 18, 1775.
[To the Commanding Ojjiccr of the Militia of the Town of .]
[Sir : — As the troops under General Gage are moving from Boston
into the country, you are, on the receipt of this, immediately to mus-
ter the men under your command, see them properly etiuipped, and
marcli them forthwith to Cainljridge.
By order of the Committee of Safety.
BENJA. WHITE, Chairma7i.]
A letter countermanding the above orders, was forwarded to the
several colonels in the neighboring towns, as per copy on file, [which
is as follows :]
[It is thought best by this committee, that those companies of the
militia which have not been called into the camp, at Cambridge, by
written orders, should remain at their respective towns, and that those
companies of them which have been so called, and are on their march,
should return, and liold themselves in complete readiness to give us
their assistance when called upon.]
June 19, 1775.
Resolved, That the house of the Rev. Samuel Cook, of Menotomy,
be improved as a hospital for the colony army; and that Mr. William
Eustis be, and hereby is appointed, to the care of the sick and wound-
ed in said hospital, till the further order of this committee.
Ordered, That Doct. Isaac Foster be, and he hereby is directed, to
take up and improve as hospitals, so many houses in Menotomy, as he
may find necessary for the safety of the sick and wounded of the col-
ony army, and that he employ such person or persons as may be ne-
cessary to carry such provisions and other necessaries as may be want-
ed for the use of the aforesaid sick and wounded ; and further, that
vinogar, and bhinketa, the pricos whereof, as well .13 the carting, shall be alloweil according to the
custom of your place, which we dcnire you to certify. It is of the utmost importance that the
army should be supplied agreeably to the resolve of the Congress, more especially with these arti-
cles ; the four first of which arc necessary for the subsistence as well as the health of the men, and
the others for their comfort. The occasion of the deficiency in blankets is mostly owing to a nuni
ber of men enlisted from Boston and other towns, which have been vacated, and they all must be
procured immediately, or our worthy countrymen will suffer.
As the country affords every thing in plenty necessary to subsist the army, and we cannot, at
present, obtain many things but by your assistance, we assure ourselves that you will act your
parts as worthily as you have done, and hope that the event of all our exertions will be the salva-
tion of our country.
DAVIU CHEEVER, per order nf Comwittfe. nf Siipjtlici.
To the Sclrctmcn and Cjntiuitlfe, of Corre.'po»i!i'nce of the Toin:i nf
572 COMMITTEE OF SAFETY. [June 20,
he take sucli precautions, respecting the small pox hospital, as may be
necessary for the prevention of the spreading of that epidemical dis-
order in the camp or elsewhere.
Pursuant to a resolve of the Provincial Congress sent to this com-
mittee, respecting the nomination of four conductors, two clerks, and
one overseer, for a company of artificers in the regiment of artillery ;
the committee beg leave to recommend the following persons to the
offices affixed to their names, viz. : Mr. John Ruddock, Mr. John
Austin, Mr. John Kneeland, Mr. Thomas Uran, Conductors ; Mr. Na-
thaniel Barber, Jr., Mr. Isaac Pierce, Clerks; Joseph Airs, Overseer
of the Artificers.
It being very desirable to obtain the most certain accounts of the
names and places of abode of the persons who have been killed or
wounded in the battle of Lexington, so called, on the ]9th of April
past, and at any time since ; and also of all such as may be killed or
wounded at any future time, during the present unnatural contest be-
tween Great Britain and the American colonies, in order to transmit
to future generations the names of such as have gloriously suffered in
the cause of liberty and their country, to effect which. Resolved, that
it be recommended to the honorable Congress to order, that the select-
men of the several towns and districts in this colony, transmit, from
time to time, to this or some future Congress or house of representa-
tives, the names and addition of all such persons, who have been
or may be killed or wounded as above, within their respective towns
and districts ; and that they severally cause the same to be fairly en-
tered upon their town and district books.
June 20, 1775.
The following was sent to the Provincial Congress, viz. :
This committee being informed that Capt. John Wiley, who was re-
commended as a proper person for the command of a company, in the
train, has not skill for such a trust, and that the company will leave
the army, unless some other person is appointed to said command,
your honors will please to take this matter into consideration, and act
thereon, as you in your wisdom shall judge necessary.
Resolved, That no more of the militia of this colony march, than
are called for by express orders from this committee, on any alarm that
may take place.
Ordered, That Mr. Abner Graves, who came down as a minute man
on the 20th of April, to defend his country, be discharged, and he is
accordingly discharged.
I-;:.-,.! coMMii'iMii: or safety. .-,-:{
Voted, TluU a certilicale l)t' <fivcii Samuel Pool, of Boston, to pass
the guard to llic town of Littleton.
The loliounig receipt was taken fVoiu Renjamin Tiincoln, Es(i.,viz. :
Received of the honorable the committee of safety, thirty-seven
blankets, which they received into their hands, and give their receipt
for them to Mr. William Vance. Received by me,
BENJAMIN LINCOLN.
JuNi: 21, \llii.
Resolved, That Joseph Adams, driver of the stage from Newbury,
be, and he hereby is directed, to transport back to Newbury, Eliza-
beth Royal and her child, who, as she says, is wife to William Royal,
first sergeant in the G3d regiment of foot, now in Boston, and deliver
her to the care of the selectmen of said Newbury, who are hereby di-
rected to provide for lier and her child, at the expense of the colony.
Voted, That the quarter master general be directed to order nine
horses in the colony service, to be stabled at Mr. Hastings' barn this
night.
Mr. Thomas Williams, on the colony service to Marblehead, had an
order on the taverners and imiholders, for the necessary supply of pro-
visions for man and horse.
Col. Woodbridge, having satisfied this committee that eight compa-
nies, belonging to this regiment, were in good forwardness, it was re-
commended to the honorable Congress, that they be commissioned ac-
cordingly.
Ordered, That Mr. James Munroe, an armorer in the provincial
service, take into his keeping a [quantity] of old iron, saved out of
the cutter burned at Winnesimit ferry, he to be accountable to the
committee for the same.
Stephen Frost, ensign in Capt. Locke's company of Col. Gardner's
reoriment, was recommended to the honorable Congress for a commis-
sion.
Two half barrels of powder were received from Billerica, for which
Col. Palmer gave a receipt. Said powder was delivered to Major Bar-
ber of the train.
Whereas, a great number of horses have been, from time to time,
put into the stables and yard at Mr. Hastings', at head quarters, not
belonging to the colony, to the committee of safety, or the general
officers, their aids de camp, or post riders, to the great expense of the
public, and inconvenience of the committee, generals, &.C., therefore,
574 COMMITTEE OF SAFETY. [June 23,
Resplved, that no horses be hereafter admitted into said stables or
yard, or be taken from thence, but only by order of said committee or
general officers.
As it is thought of great importance, that intelligence of the state
and situation of the army, or any part thereof, should, at all times, be
known to the general officers, and that such orders as may be sent by
the generals, be communicated, with all speed, therefore. Resolved,
that it be recommended to the honorable Congress, that they make
such establishment for aid de camps, to the generals, as to them, in
their wisdom, shall seem meet.
June 22, 1775.
Samuel Patch, in Col. William Prescott's regiment, was recommend-
ed to the honorable Congress, to be commissioned as a captain ; and
Zachary Walker and Joshua Brown, as lieutenants in said regiment.
Resolved, That it be, and it hereby is recommended to the town of
Medford, that they immediately supply Major Hale with as many
spades and shovels as they can spare, as it is of importance for the
safety of this colony, that the works begun on W^inter hill be finished,
and that they will be retarded unless soon supplied with tools of that
kind.
A number of Col. Donaldson's officers were recommended to the
honorable Congress to be commissioned, as by copy on file.
June 23, 1775.
Agreeably to a resolve of the Provincial Congress, orders were
issued to the colonels of the several regiments, that they forthwith
make return of the officers in their respective regiments who are not
commissioned, [that they] may immediately receive their commissions,
and that the vacancies, if any such there are, may be filled up.
A letter from General Thomas, recommending a supervisor for the
armorers at Roxbury, is referred over to Congress.
The following was voted to be sent the Provincial Concrress, viz. :
This committee beg leave to represent to the honorable the Provin-
cial Congress, that they apprehend it [to be] absolutely necessary for
the safety of the colony, that two persons of ability and prudence be
appointed to superintend the regular supply of our two camps; one
of them to be placed in the camp near this place, and the other at
Roxbury, whose duty it shall severally be, constantly to attend said
camps, and examine into the supplies of each regiment, to see that
such supplies are properly delivered out in time, quantity and quality,
and seasonably to advise the commissary general when, and what articles
1775.
COMMITTEE OF SAFETY.
575
of supplies, arc wanted at tlie respective camps: All which is humbly
submitted
Col. Palmer and Col. Orne appointed a committee, to join a com-
mittee from the council of war, to view the encampment on Prospect
hill, and the works carrying on there.
This day was lodged with this committee, by Capt. Cyprian Howe,
thirty arms, sent by Capt. Josiah Stone, of Framingham, for which a
receipt was given by the secretary of this committee.
Voted, That Mr. Joseph Jones, of Lancaster, be supplied with pro-
visions, till the further orders of this committee, he being well skilled
in the train.
The following fire-arms were received from the town of Attlebor-
ough, viz. :
jun from Henry Richardson, •
" Jacob Perry, - - -
" George Stanley, - -
" Amos Stanley, - - ■
" Samuel Freeman, Jr.,
" Benjamin Allen, - ■
Ditto,
" David Richardson,
" Ebenezer Lane, - -
" Elisha Gay, - - - -
" Daniel Dagget, - -
V"o
1,
o
3,
4,
5,
6,
7,
8,
9,
10,
11,
appraised at £1 16
1
13
2
00
1
10
2
00
1
16
1
4
2
2
1
7
o
14
o
2
^'20 4
The following flie-arms were received from the town of Rehoboth,
viz. :
1 gun from James Dagget, - - -
No.
11,
- appra
sed
at
£2 8
Benjamin Ridge, - -
12,
"
2 14
Elisha Carpenter, - -
13,
"
1 4
Nathan Round, - -
14,
"
2 8
Richard Whittaker,
15,
"
1 19
James Dagget, - - -
16,
"
2 2
Benjamin Ridge, - -
17,
"
1 13
John Wheeler, - - -
IS,
"
1 13
William Cole, - - -
19,
•'
1 13
Stephen Bullock, - -
20
"
2 8
£•20 2
576 COMMITTEE OF SAFETY. [June 24,
June 24, 1775.
Ordered, Thrit the commanding officer who has the charge of the
hay on John Vassal, Esq.'s estate, be directed to supply Mr. Seth
Brown, who has tlie care of the colony horses, with as much hay as
they may need for their consumption.
A gun taken after the late action was appraised by this committee at
thirty shillings, and delivered Col. Brewer for the use of his regiment;
for which he gave his receipt to be accountable to this committee in
the rough minute book.
A gun, appraised at two pounds fourteen shillings, was delivered
Elisha Frizel, of Capt. Robert Oliver's company, in Colonel Doolit-
tle's regiment, he having had his gun split in the late engagement. A
receipt was taken for the same in the rough minute book.
A number of Col. Prescott's officers were recommended to the hon-
orable Congress, to be commissioned as by the captain's return on file.
Capt. Ezra Badlam, of a company in the train, and four lieutenants,
were recommended to the honorable Congress, to be commissioned, as
by the captain's return on file.
Capt. Samuel McCobb, of Col. Nixon's regiment, had twenty fire-
arms delivered him, appraised by the towns which sent them at thirty-
seven pounds twelve shillings, for which he gave his receipt in the
rough minute book, to be accountable to this committee.
Ordered, That Mr. Brown, the keeper of tlie colony horses, do not
admit any horses into the stables of John Vassal, Esq., but such as
are the property of this colony.
Resolved, That the overseer, and such a part of the company of ar-
tificers under his direction as may be necessary, be posted in Newton,
in buildings of Mr. John Pigeon, for the purpose of carrying on their
business, and what loss said Pigeon shall sustain, in consequence of
said artificers being posted there, this committee will use their influ-
ence that the damage so sustained be reimbursed by this colony.
Resolved, That the cannon in this and the town of Watertown, not
mounted, and all other military stores not wanted for present use, be
removed forthwith to the town of Newton, where the artificers are to
carry on their works.
Voted, That Mr. Pigeon, the commissary general, have the care and
direction of removing the spare military stores to Watertown.
A gun, said to have belonged to James Boynton, was delivered to
Eliphalet Cole, in Capt. Parley's company, in Col. Fry's regiment.
A gun was delivered to Aaron Croniby, in Capt. Gridley's company,
of the train.
lT7->.] COMMlTTKi: OV SAFETY. .->77
Eiglity-lbiir tirc-aniis, collected from several towns, were received of
Mr. Thomas Covvdeii, for the use of this colony, for which a receipt
was given him by Mr. Watson, of this committee.
June 25, 177").
Whereas, Mr. Pigeon, the commissary general, has represented to
this committee, that the public service will be promoted by a faithful
person being appointed as a supervisor of the camp, for reasons offer-
ed; upon consideration of which, and for other reasons, this commit-
tee beg leave to represent to the honorable Congress, that they appre-
hend it to be absolutely necessary for the safety of this colony, that
two persons, of known ability and prudence, be appointed, to superin-
tend the regular supply of our two camps ; one of them to be placed
in the camp near this place, and the other at or near Roxbury ; whose
duty it shall severally be, constantly to attend said camps, and examine
into the supplies of each regiment, to see that such supplies are prop-
erly delivered out, in time, quantity and quality, and seasonably to ad-
vise the commissary general when, and what articles of supplies are
wanted at the respective camps, and also to take care that the empty
casks are saved and returned to the commissary general's office for
farther service, and in general to do all the service to the public which
such appointment requires.
June 26, 1775.
Twenty small arms were delivered Capt. Lemuel Trcscott, of Col.
Jonathan Brewer's regiment, for the use of his company, for which he
gave a receipt in the minute book, to be accountable when called upon
therefor.
Six small arms were delivered Capt. William Hudson Ballard, for
the use of his company in Col. Fry's regiment, for which he gave a re-
ceipt, to be accountable when called upon therefor.
Col. Moses Little, having made a return to this committee of a lieu-
tenant colonel, major, ten captains, and twenty lieutenants, it was
recommended to the honorable Congress, that they be commissioned
accordingly.
Three small arms were delivered Capt. John Nutting, for the use of
his company in Col. Prescott's regiment, amounting, by appraisement,
to seven pounds ten shillings, for which he gave a receipt in the min-
ute book, to be accountable when called upon therefor.
Six small arms were delivered Lieutenant Whitney, for the use of
Capt. Farwell's cuin[)auy in Col. Prescott's regiment, amounting, as
7a
578 COMMITTEE OF SAFETY. [July 27,
by appraisement, to thirteen pounds twelve shillings, for which a re-
ceipt was given by the lieutenant in the minute book.
Six small arms were delivered Capt. Joshua Parker, of Col. Pres-
cott's regiment, for the use of his company, amounting, as by appraise-
ment, to thirteen pounds eight shillings, for which he gave a receipt to
be accountable to the committee when called upon therefor.
Ten small arms were delivered Capt. Asa Lawrence, for the use of
his company in Col. Prescott's regiment, appraised at nineteen pounds
three shillings, for which he gave a receipt to be accountable to this
colony, which receipt is on file.
Three small arms, for the use of Capt. Wyman's company in Col.
Prescott's regiment, appraised at five pounds, were delivered to his
lieutenant, for which he gave a receipt in the minute book, to be ac-
countable when called upon therefor.
Three small arms, for the use of Capt. Oliver Parker's company in
Col. Prescott's regiment, were delivered said Parker, amounting, as by
appraisement, to four pounds nine shillings and four pence, for which
a receipt was taken in the minute book.
Whereas, this committee find the public hospital in this town has
been much neglected, to the great injury of the patients in said hospi-
tal, occasioned by the want of some suitable person being placed there
as surgeon, therefore. Resolved, that Doct. John Warren, be, and he
hereby is appointed, to the oversight of said hospital, and that he take
proper care such provision be made as may be necessary for the com-
fortable support of the patients in said hospital until further orders.
Fifty-eight small arms, amounting, by appraisement, to one hundred
and nine pounds fifteen shillings, were delivered Col. Asa Whitcomb,
for the use of his regiment, and a receipt taken for the same in the
minute book.
June 27, 1775.
Passed upon John Chandler Williams' account, who was employed
as a rider in the service of this colony, amounting to ^4 4.s Gd, as by
the copy thereof on file.
It was recommended to the honorable the Provincial Congress, that
William Dana be commissioned as captain lieutenant; Mr. Treadwell
as first lieutenant ; Jonas Simmons and William Stevens as second lieu-
tenants; in Capt. Edward Craft's company of the train, in Col. Grid-
ley's regiment.
A gun was taken for the use of this colony, which was owned by
Aaron Bar, of Mansfield, who died of the wounds he received in the
IT?.-, I coMMirrKi: of safety. 5-9
Itattle of BmikiT liill, wliicli <riin lias been valiioil l)y this coiiiiiiittec, at
thirty-six shillings lawful money.
One hunilrcd and twenty-four small arms were received of Air.
Abiah Sadler, and ten of Capt. Stone, collected by them for the ser-
vice of this colony, amounting, by appraisement, to two hundred and
fifty-one pounds fourteen shillings and eight pence, for which re-
ceipts were given by Mr. Watson.
June 28, 1775.
Two small arms were delivered Col. Samuel Gerrish, for the use of
his regiment, amounting, as by appraised value, to three pounds three
shillings, for which a receipt was taken in the minute book.
The following is a resolve of the Provincial Congress, relative to
supplying the army with small arms, viz. :
In Provincial Congress, Watertown, June 26, 1775.
Whereas, this Congress has ordered a number of fire-arms to be fur-
nislied from several towns and districts in this colony, to be forwarded
to the army, to supply those who are destitute of arms; but no provi-
sion is made for delivering them out, and taking proper receipts for
the same, therefore. Resolved, that all the small arms that are or may
be procured by the above order, be delivered to the committee of safe-
ty, at Cambridge, they to give their receipts for the same to the per-
son from whom they receive them ; that the same be delivered out to such
officers as shall produce orders therefor from the Hon. General Ward,
they giving receipts for the same to the said committee of safety, to be
returned in good order, unless lost in the service of the colony ; and
every soldier who shall receive any such fire-arms, shall give his re-
ceipt for the same to the officer from whom he shall receive it, to be re-
turned as aforesaid ; and the officer shall return said receipts to the com-
mittee of safety; and in case the same shall not be returned at the close
of the campaign, or sooner, the value of the said fire-arms shall be de-
ducted out of the wages of the person receiving the same ; and that
the committee of safety shall appraise all such arms as have not
already been appraised, and take an account of the whole.
By order of Congress,
JOSEPH WARREN, President.
The following was received from General Ward, in consequence of
the above vote of Congress, viz. :
oSO COMMITTEE OF SAFETY. [July 28,
Head Quauters, Cambridge, June 28, 1775.
The general orders, that the commanding officer of each regi-
ment make application to the committee of safety for so many fire-arms
as their respective regiments stand in need of; each commanding offi-
cer to give his receipt for the fire-arms he may receive, and the com-
mittee of safety are hereby ordered to deliver out arms to such com-
manding officers as make application to them for the same.
Per order, SAMUEL OSGOOD, Blajor of Brigade.
In consequence of the above order of the council of war, the follow-
ing protest was entered, and a copy of the same, together with the
other proceedings, was, by a vote of this committee, laid before the
honorable Congress, viz. :
Whereas, the Provincial Congress did, on the 2Gth instant, pass a
resolve, " that all the small arms that are or may be procured by the
above order (mentioned in said resolve,) be delivered to the commit-
tee of safety, at Cambridge, they to give their receipt for the same, to
the person from whom they receive them ; that the same he delivered
out to such officers, as shall produce orders therefor from the Hon.
General Ward :" and whereas, the Hon. General Ward, in conse-
quence of that part of the above quotation which is scored, has this
day issued general orders, in which are these words, " and the commit-
tee of safety are hereby ordered to deliver out arms to such commanding
officers as make application to them for the same :" and whereas, this
committee apprehend, that said resolve does not empower the general
to order them to deliver said arms, but only to order his officers to re-
ceive from the committee such arms as they are ordered by the honor-
able Congress to deliver on the general's orders to his officers : and
whereas, the committee apprehend, that it is of vast importance that no
orders are issued by the military, or obeyed by the civil power, but
only such as are directed by the honoralile representative body of the
people, from whom all military and civil power originates; and, though
this committee are satisfied, that General Ward has misunderstood said
resolve, and does not mean or intend to set up the military power
above the civil, yet, lest this order of the general, should be adduced
as a precedent in future, we think it our indispensable duty to protest
against the general's said order ; notwithstanding which protest, we
also think it our indispensable duty to deliver said arms agreeably to
1775] COMMITTRK OV SAFETY. 561
the spirit of said resolve, and as the exigency ol' ihc piihlic refjuircs ;
and submit our conduct to the hcjnoraldc Congress.
Forty-three small arms, amounting, as by appraisement, to seventy-
nine pounds two shillings and four pence, were delivered to Col. Gard-
ner, for the use of bi.s regiment, and a receipt taken for the same in
the minute book, from Lieutenant Colonel Bond.
Thirty small arms were delivered Major Brooks, for the use of Col.
Bridge's regiment, amounting, as by appraisement, to fifty-five pounds
nineteen shillings and si.x pence, for which he gave a receipt to be ac-
countable to this colony, which receipt is on tlie files of the commit-
tee.
Nine small arms were delivered Col. William Prescott, for the use
of his regiment, amounting, as by appraisement, to seventeen pounds
nine shillings, for which a receipt was given in the minute book.
Twenty-five small arms were delivered Col. Fry, for the use of his
regiment, amounting, as by appraisement, to forty-nine pounds eight
shillings and two pence, for which he gave a receipt to be accountable
to the colony, which receipt is on the minute book.
Tw^enty-five small arms were delivered Col. John Glover, for the use
of his regiment, amounting, as by appraisement, to forty-six pounds
twelve shillings and eight pence, for which he gave a receipt in the
minute book to be accountable to this colony.
Received of Major Barber, store-keeper for the trains, by order of
the Provincial Congress, thirty-two small arms, amounting, as by ap-
praisement, to £ .
Mr. Devens and Col. Orne, appointed to draw up a vote relative to
Capt. Trevet and company, reported the following, which was accept-
ed, viz :
Whereas, from a mistake made by one of the general officers, Capt.
Samuel Russel Trevet has been put under arrest, which mistake is set
forth in a certificate by order of the general, and upon examination it
appears that said Trevet has approved himself a good officer, but said
mistake has unhappily ojjerated to the dispersion of his company ;
therefore. Resolved, that Capt. Trevet be directed to collect his said
company, as soon as possible, and then apply to this committee, in or-
der to be commissioned.!
(1) A committee was Tormcd from members of the Provincial Congress, of the council of war,
and of the committee of safety, to inquire into the alleged misconduct of some of the officers of
the American army in the battle of the 17th of June. The investigation appears to have been
founded on the statement of General Putnam, that as he was riding up the hill, during the engage-
582 COMMITTEE OF SAFETY. [June 30,
This committee being greatly alarmed at the danger of the small
pox spreading in the American army, which, should it take place, we
fear may be attended with very fatal consequences to this colony and
continent : therefore, Resolved, that it be earnestly recommended to
the honorable Congress, to take such speedy and effectual measures,
to prevent a communication of that very dangerous and distressing
distemper, from the small pox hospital, to the army, or to the inhabit-
ants of this colony, as to them in their wisdom may seem meet.
Whereas, sundry persons, who, in the exigency of our public affairs,
have been employed in the service of this colony, are, from time to
time, exhibiting their accounts to this committee, in order for payment,
therefore, Resolved, that said accounts be transmitted to the honora-
ble Congress, that this matter be taken into their consideration, and
that such orders pass thereon as their wisdom may dictate.
June 30, 1775.
One hundred and fifty-two small arms were received of Capt. Wil-
liam Page, collected by him for the use of this colony, amounting, as
by appraised value, to £ , for which a receipt was given him by
Mr. Watson
Mr. Samuel West was recommended to the honorable Congress, to
be commissioned as second lieutenant in Capt. Abner Cranson's com-
pany, in Col. Asa Whitcomb's regiment.
Forty small arms were delivered Col. John Paterson, for the use of
his regiment, amounting, as by appraisement, to seventy-eight pounds
sixteen shillings and four pence, for which a receipt was given in the
minute book.
Fifty-one small arms were delivered Col. James Scammon, for the
use of his regiment, amounting, as by appraisement, to ninety-seven
pounds eighteen shillings and eight pence, for which guns a receipt
was taken in the minute book.
Three small arms, for the use of this colony, were received of Col.
Simeon Spalding, amounting, as by appraisement, to five pounds four
shillings.
raent, ho met an officer of artillery drawing a cannon down, who alleged as the cause of his move-_
ment, that he had expended hi» ammunition. General Putnam dismounted, and finding some cart-
ridges unexpended, ordered the officer to return to his post. Anotlicr captain left the field, under
gimilar circumstances. It was in evidence, that the bulls were too large for the service of the
guns, and that it was necessary to break the cartridges before they could he used. The officers aj)-
pear to have left the hill for the purpose of preserving the guns from capture. Tlio examination
subsided, without further proceedings. Capt. Trevet was in no way implicated in any suspicion of
misconduct, and his arrest resulted from an unfortunate mistake.
1775] COMMITTEE OF SAFETY. 583
Whereas, the lionorabic l'io\ iiicial Congress lias tliis day jiasscd a
resolve, appointing this coinmiltee to he a committee to consider of a
further emission of notes or hills of credit, as mentioned in said re-
solve; but this committee, finding themselves unable to proceed in the
business without a more i)erfect knowledge of the emissions lately
made, both in quantity and circumstances of payment; and also for
want of sufficient knowledge of the demands made, or to be made,
upon the colony, do Resoh'c, that Col. Palmer attend the honorable
Congress to-morrow, in order to obtain all necessary light in the
premises.
Whereas, a considerable number of whale boats have been procured
for the service of this colony, and many of them are said to be now in
the towns of Braintree and Weymouth, and, unless proper care be ta-
ken of said boats, they will probably sustain great damage : therefore,
Hcsoh'cd, that it be recommended to the honorable Congress, that
such order be taken respecting said boats, as their wisdom may direct.
This committee beg leave to suggest to the honorable Congress,
whether the magazine wherein gunpowder is deposited, ought not to
be guarded by electrical points ; as any considerable loss in that article
would deeply affect the public, which is humbly submitted.
Twenty-seven small arms, for the use of this colony, were received
of Mr. Benjamin Ely, for which a receipt was given by the secretary
of this committee, which guns were collected by order of Congress,
and amount, by appraisement, to £ .
Forty-four small arms, for the use of this colony, were received of
Mr. John Bliss, for which a receipt was given him by the secretary
of this committee, which guns were collected by order of Congress,
and amount, by appraisement, to £ .
Voted, That the commissary general be directed to supply head
quarters with provisions as usual, till the farther order of this commit-
tee.
July 1, 1775.
Forty-nine small arms, for the use of the colony, were received
from the Rev. Mr. Lemuel Kollock, for which a receipt was given by
Mr. Devens ; which guns were collected by order of Congress, and
amount, by appraisement, to £ .
Fifteen small arms were delivered Col. Ruggles Woodbridge, for the
use of his regiment, amounting, as by appraisement, to twenty-nine
pounds sixteen shillings and eight pence, for which guns a receipt was
taken in the minute book.
584 COMMITTEE OF SAFETY. [July 3,
Voted, That two tliirds of the hay under the care of Mr. David San-
ger, be brought to head quarters, and one third carried to the commit-
tee of supplies, at Watertovvn.
Six small arms were received of Mr. Abner Ellis, for the use of this
colony, amounting, by appraisement, to £ , for which a receipt
was given by the secretary of this committee.
Forty-four small arms were received of Benjamin Ely, by the hands
of Mr. Solomon Edwards, for the use of this colony, for which a re-
ceipt was given by the secretary, which arms were collected by order
of Congress, and amount, as by appraisement, to £ .
Eight small arms were received of Col. John Dickinson, by the
hands of Benjamin Scott, Jun., for the use of this colony, amounting,
by appraisement, to £ , for which a receipt was given by the
secretary.
Capt. Jacob Miller was recommended to the honorable Congress, as
a captain in Col. Dooliltle's regiment, in the room of Capt. Leland,
who has resigned.
Seventy-one small arms were delivered Col. David Brewer, for the
use of his regiment, amounting, as by appraisement, to one hundred
thirty-eight pounds six shillings, which guns he engaged should be re-
turned in good order, unless lost in the service of this colony, as by
his receipt in the minute book.
Thirteen small arms were delivered Col. Jonathan Brewer, for the
use of his regiment, amounting, as by appraisement, to twenty-six
pounds seven shillings, for which a receipt was taken in the minute
book.
July 2, 1775.
One hundred small arms were delivered Col. Glover, for the use of
his regiment, amounting, as by appraisement, to one hundred ninety-
two pounds eleven shillings, which guns he engaged should be return-
ed in good order, unless lost in the service of this colony, as by his re-
ceipt in the minute book.
One hundred and seven small arms were received of Mr. Daniel
Hemmenway, by the hands of Mr. John Elder, for the use of this col-
ony, for which a receipt was given by Mr. Abraham Watson.
July 3, 1775.
Twenty-six small arms were delivered Col. James Fry, for the use
of his regiment, amounting, as by appraisement, to fifty-five pounds
four shillings, for which a receipt was given in the minute book.
177.>.| COMMITTEE OF SAFETY. 585
Ten small arms wcro delivered Col. I'.[)liraiiii Doolittio, for the use
of his recrimeiit, ainoiiiitiii<r, as by appraisement, to twenty-two pounds
eighteen shillinirs, for wliicij a receipt was taken in the minute book.
One gun, for the use of Col. Gardner's regiment, was delivered to
Lieut. Col. Bond, amounting, by appraisement, to two pounds fourteen
shillings, for which a receipt was taJien in the minute book.
Ten small arms were delivered Col. Moses Little, for the use of his
regiment, amounting, as by appraisement, to twenty-two pounds one
shilling and four pence, for which a receipt was given in the minute
book.
Two small arms were delivered Col. Moses Little, for the use of his
regiment, amounting, as by appraisement, to four pounds four shillings,
for which a receipt was taken in the minute book.
Thirteen guns were received of Mr. Benjamin Ely, by the hands of
Mr. John Eaton, collected by order of Congress, for which a receipt
was given him.
Fifteen small arms were delivered Col. William Prescott, for the use
of his regiment, amounting, by appraisement, to twenty-nine pounds
sixteen shillings, for which a receipt was given in the minute book.
A number of officers in Col. Woodbridge's regiment, were recom-
mended to the honorable Congress, to be commissioned, as by return
on file.
Whereas, Mr. Edmund Quincy, of Stoughtonham, has represented
to this committee, that sundry household goods and other effects, now
or late the property of Thomas Hutchinson, Esq., and other persons
publicly known to be also enemies to the rights and liberties of Ameri-
ca, are hid in several places in and near Milton, which property will
p;obably be lost or w'asted, unless proper care is taken of the same, for
such persons as may hereafter justly claim the same, therefore. Re-
solved, that said Q,uincy, be, and he hereby is empowered, to receive
and convey to this committee, at Cambridge, all such goods and effects
as aforesaid, for the use of such person or persons as the honorable
Congress or some future Congress, or House of Representatives of this
colony may order ; he also producing to this committee, the Congress
or House of Representatives, an account of all the articles he may so
receive, the names of the persons from whom he may receive the same,
and an account of the charges that may arise from such salvage and
removal ; and he also is hereby empowered, to press, if necessary, such
teams as may be needed for removing such effects.
Also, Resolved, That this be immediately transmitted by the hands
74.
586 COMMITTEE OF SAFETY. [July 5,
of said duincy, to the honorable Congress now sitting at Watertown,
for their approbation or disapprobation.
Henries Vomhavi, an Indian, having represented to this committee,
that he had taken two horses at Noddle's island, one a little horse,
which he is desirous of retaining as some recompense for his fatigue
and risk in that action, in which, it is said he behaved with great
bravery ; it is the opinion of this committee, that said Indian should
be gratified in his request, which will be an encouragement to others
in the service, provided, the honorable Congress should approve
thereof.
Passed upon Mr. William White's account, a person employed by
this committee as a rider in the colony service, which account amount-
ed to six pounds thirteen shillings four pence, and a certificate was
given him accordingly.
Thirty-nine small arms were delivered Col. Jonathan Brewer, for
the use of his regiment, amounting, by appraisement, to sixty-eight
pounds eighteen shillings and eight pence, for which a receipt was
taken in the minute book.
July 4, 1775.
Mr. George Armstrong, who brought in a company of minute men,
and has been in the army since the first alarm, having desired leave of
absence from the camp, for some time, it was accordingly granted
him ; and an order was given the said Armstrong, on the taverners
and innholders on the road to Murraysfield, to supply him with neces-
sary provisions on his return home.
Mr. Eleazer Wier, was directed to deliver Benjamin Willing, one
dozen and a half of files, for the use of the armorers now working at
Mr. Gideon Frost's shop.
Voted, That Mr. David Sanger be directed to fill the widow Vas-
sal's barn with hay.
Nine small arms were delivered Col. Joseph Read, for the use of
his regiment, amounting, as by appraisement, to seventeen pounds
fourteen shillings, for which guns a receipt was taken in the minute
book.
Four guns were delivered Col. Moses Little, for the use of his regi-
ment, amounting, as by appraisement, to nine pounds two shillings,
for which a receipt was taken in the minute book.
July 5, 1775.
Thirty-seven fire-arms were received from Major Ebenezer White,
1775] COMMITTEE OF SAFETY. 587
which gnus were collected hy order of Congress, .niid amount, as hy
appraisement, to eiifhty-fivc pounds seven shillings.
Thirty-seven small arms, valued at eighty-five pounds seven shillings,
were delivered General Thomas, for the use of his regiment, as by his
receipt on file.
Six small arms were delivered Col. William Prescott, for the use of
his regiment, amounting, hy appraisement, to eleven pounds six shil-
lings, for which a receipt was taken in the minute book.
Four small arms were delivered Col. William Prescott, for tlie use
of his regiment, amounting, as by appraisement, to eight pounds four-
teen shillings, for which a receipt was taken in the minute book.
Ten small arms were delivered Col. Moses Little, for the use of his
regiment, amounting, as by appraisement, to eighteen pounds seven
shillings and four pence, for which a receipt was taken in the minute
book.
Passed upon John Bullfinch's, and twelve other persons' accounts,
who worked with Jeremiah Russell, amounting in the whole to forty-
four pounds eight shillings and eight pence, for which a certificate was
given them, for the committee of accounts.
Voted, That Joseph Bates have liberty to cut thirty hundred of hay,
on John Vassal, Esq's estate in Cambridge, he to be accountable
therefor, and that Samuel Sanger, who has the care of the hay, be di-
rected accordingly.
Eight guns, collected in Princeton, were received of Mr. Ephraim
Woolson, by the hands of Sylvanus Cakes, amounting, by appraisement,
to fourteen pounds seven shillings, for which a receipt was given him
by the secretary.
July 6, 1775.
Voted, That Joseph and Parsons Smith, be allowed to cut, each,
one ton of English hay, and one ton of black grass, on the estate of
John Vassal, Esq., in Cambridge, they to be accountable therefor :
and that Mr. David Sanger be directed accordingly.
A hand vice, screw plate, and pins, were purchased of Mr. Richard
Estes, for the use of the armorers, amounting, as by receipt in the
minute book, to eight shillings.
Mr. Seth Brown was directed and empowered to clear the widow
Vassal's barns, for the reception of hay and horses for the colony ser-
vice ; and also to prevent horses feeding in the pastures owned by said
widow.
Mrs. Elizabeth Hicks was paid four shillings, by Mr. Devens, for
bringing up a boat from Charlestown, as by receipt on file.
588 COMMITTEE OF SAFETY. [July 6,
Voted, That Mr. Fisk, who has the care of Jonathan Sewall's farm,
have liberty to cut on said farm one ton of English hay and two tons
of salt hay, and that Mr. David Sanger be directed accordingly.
[ Voted, That it be recommended to the honorable Provincial Con-
gress to pass the following resolve :]
Whereas, the exigencies of the colony require that there should be,
as soon as possible, an emission of bills of credit : therefore, Resolved,
that there be immediately issued on the credit of this colony, and de-
posited in the treasury, a sum not exceeding one hundred thousand
pounds, lawful money, in bills of credit of the following denomina-
tions, viz. : of one shilling, of two shillings, of two shillings and six
pence, of four shillings, of five shillings, of seven shillings and six
pence, of eight shillings, of eleven shillings, of thirteen shillings, of
seventeen shillings, of nineteen shillings, of thirty shillings, of forty
shillings, of sixty shillings, of eighty shillings, and of one hundred
shillings ; to be five thousand of each denomination, and no more, and
to be of the form following, viz, :
Colony of the i ^ ^^^_ «y .^.f.
,, o } JtLY , 1^/5. J\o. 109.
Massachusetts day. ) '
The possessor of this bill shall be paid, by the treasurer of this col-
ony, two shillings and six pence, lawful money, by the 18th day of
July, 1777, and [it] shall be received in all payments at the treasury at
all times.
By order of Congress.
A. D.
B. E. \ Committee.
C.
\. D. ^
B. E. }
D. F. j
which said bills shall be paid and received in the public treasury, and
in all payments in this colony, without any abatement or discount,
upon any pretence whatsoever, under penalty of treble damages to
both the payer and receiver, which penalty shall be applied to the
discharge of the public debts of this colony.
And said bills shall also be printed on the back, with the colony
seal, the value of the bill, and its date, and round the seal, these words :
Issued in defence of American Liberty. Also, Resolved, that A. B. and
C. be a committee to sign or authenticate all said bills, from one shil-
ling to eleven shillings, inclusively ; and that D. E. and F. be another
committee to sign or authenticate all other the said bills, which are of
from thirteen shillings to one hundred shillings, inclusively.
5000 l)ill.sof 1 5.
-
5000
" ii<
.
5000
" ■2s.
Of/.
5000
" 45.
-
5000
" 05.
-
5000
" 75.
iUt.
5000
" 85.
-
5000
" 11 5.
-
5000
" 135.
-
5000
" 175.
-
5000
" 195.
-
5000
" 305.
-
5000
" 405.
-
5000
" C05.
-
5000
" 805.
-
5000
"1005.
.
1775.] COMMirTEi: OF SAFRTY. 589
X-250
500
025
1 ,000
1/250
- . - 1 ,875
2,000
2,750
3,250
4,250
4,750
7,500-
- 10,000
15,000
- 20,000
- 25,000 c£l00,000
[The following letter was sent to General Washington :]
May it please yoiu Excellency : — The bearer, Capt. Brown, is
the officer who took the horses that came off from Bunker's hill; you'll
please to direct said horses being delivered to his care.
To His EjcccUcnnj Gtneral Washington.
This committee have, with great concern, considered the advanta-
ges our enemies will derive from General Gage's misrepresentations of
the battle of Charlestown, unless counteracted by the truth of that
day's transactions being fairly and honestly represented to our friends,
and others, in Great Britain : therefore, Resolved, that it be humbly
recommended to the honorable Congress, now sitting at Watertown,
to appoint a committee to draw up and transmit to Great Britain, as
soon as possible, a fair, honest and impartial account of the late battle
of Charlestown, on the 17th ultimo, so that our friends, and others, in
that part of the world, may not be, in any degree, imposed upon by
General Gage's misrepresentations of that day's transactions ; and that
they also be a standing committee for that purpose.
With hearts deeply affected by the sufferings of our friends in the
town and harbor of Boston, now under the cruel hand of tyrannic
power ; and reflecting upon the advice of the late Continental Con-
gress, respecting our enemies seizing any of our friends, it is Kcsolved,
by this committee, that it be recommended to the honorable Provin-
cial Congress, now sitting at Watertown, to recommend to the
grand American Congress, that every crown officer, within the united
590 COMMITTEE OF SAFETY. [July 7,
colonies, be immediately seized, and held in safe custody until our
friends who have been seized by General Gage are set at liberty, and
fully recompensed for their loss and imprisonment.
Voted, That Mr. John Steel and his two sons be appointed armorers
for this colony's forces.
Eight small arms were delivered Col. Ebenezer Bridge, for the use
of his regiment, amounting, as by appraisement, to seventeen pounds
six shillings, for which a receipt was taken in the minute book.
Whereas, the honorable Congress have made an establishment for a
company of artificers, which consists of carpenters, blacksmiths, and
wheelwrights ; and a captain is appointed for the carpenters, but no
provision is made for captains or master workmen for the blacksmiths
and wheelwrights, therefore. Resolved, that the premises be recom-
mended to the consideration of the honorable Congress, now sitting at
Watertown.
July 7, 1775.
Two guns were received from Capt. Josiah Stone, of Framingham,
for the use of this colony, amounting, by appraisement, to three
pounds sixteen shillings, for which a receipt was given by Mr. Devens.
Forty small arms were delivered Col. Scammon, for the use of his
regiment, amounting, by appraisement, to seventy-four pounds thirteen
shillings and four pence, for which a receipt was taken in the minute
book.
One small arm was delivered Col. Gridley, for the use of his regi-
ment, amounting, by appraisement, to two pounds four shillings, for
which a receipt was taken in the minute book.
Passed upon Matthew Clark's account, amounting to nine pounds
three shillings and six pence; and a certificate was delivered him for
the committee on accounts.
Whereas, Mr. Seth Brown, who has had the care of horses for the
cannon, has resigned that employment, and as Thomas Organ, who
was in the service of the late General Warren, is willing to un-
dertake that service, looking upon him to be a person well qualified
for that trust, we desire he may be appointed accordingly.
The above was directed to the gentlemen of the committee of sup-
plies.
Passed upon Mr. Isaac Bissel, a post rider's account, amounting,
as by copy on file, to two pounds one shilling; and a certificate was
given him for the committee on accounts.
[Whereas, a number of soldiers in the American army, are from
time to time, observed to be much disguised with spirituous liquors,
1775.] COMMITTEE OF SAFETY. 591
;iii(I sliould not sonic cirecliial inoasurcs he taken to put a slop to llii.s
disorder, not only the morals and health, but also the lives and lihcr-
ties of this people will be endancrered ; therefore, Rcfolvcd, that it be,
and it is hereby reconnncnded to his Excellency General Washiiifrton,
that an order be issued to suppress retailers of spirituous lirpiors within
and near the camps, in such manner as to him may seem meet.]
Upon application made to this committee by Capt. Rogers, and due
examination into the matter, the following was voted to be sent the
sclecfnion, «^c., of the town of Reading, to be communicated to the
adjacent towns.
Gentlemen : — Whereas, Capt. Jacob Rogers, late an inhabitant of
Charlestown, but who, through the necessity of the times, has been
obliged to quit Charlestown, has since taken up his residence in the
town of Reading ; but some licentious persons of the town of Stone-
ham, as is represented to us, have threatened to raise a mob, and drive
him out of said Reading, to the great terror of his family, and this,
without any cause that we can find, evidence having appeared of his
good behavior while in Charlestown; in order to put a stop to such
disorderly conduct, it is Resolved, that all the inhabitants of this colo-
ny be desired, as they regard the peace and welfare of the country, to
behave peaceably and quietly towards the said Capt. Rogers ; and if
his conduct should hereafter be unworthy a friend to American liberty,
he is then to be orderly complained of, to such authority as may then
exist within this colony, but by no means to be proceeded against in
any disorderly manner.
Twenty-eight guns, for the use of the colony, collected by order of
Congress, were received of Mr. John Ingraham, July 7th.
Passed upon Mr. John Barber's account, amounting to seven pounds
thirteen shillings and eight pence ; and a certificate was given him for
the committee on accounts.
July 8, 1775.
Two small arms were received of Col. Simeon Spaulding, for the
use of this colony, amounting, by appraisement, to two pounds twelve
shillings.
Two small arms, appraised at four pounds four shillings, were de-
livered Capt. Job Cushing, of Col. Ward's regiment, as by receipt on
file.
Fifteen small arms [were delivered,] for the use of Col. Sergeant's
592 COMMITTEE OF SAFETY. [July 8,
regiment, amounting, as by appraisement, to twenty-seven pounds three
shillings, for which a receipt has been taken in the minute book.
The honorable the Provincial Congress having acquainted this com-
mittee, that Mr. James Winthrop, post master in Cambridge, had de-
clined serving any longer in that office, and desired that another might
be recommended to them for that place :
Voted, That Mr. Jonathan Hastings, Jun., be recommended to the
honorable Congress, as a suitable person for the trust aforesaid.
Two small arms were received of Mr. Seth Stone, of Cambridge,
for tlie use of this colony, amounting, as by appraisement, to three
pounds eighteen shillings, for which a receipt Avas given him by the
secretary.
Passed upon John Gill, Jun., a post rider's account, amounting to
six pounds seventeen shillings and eight pence, for which a certificate
was given.
[Whereas, many complaints have been made to this committee, that
the armorers frequently deliver the arms out of their shops unfit for
service, and delay the work unnecessarily ; in order to prevent occa-
sion for such complaints in future, and to hasten the public service in
an orderly manner, which has not yet been provided for, it is Rcsulved,
that it be, and it hereby is, recommended to the honorable Congress,
to make an establishment for, at least, four master armorers, each one
of whom shall work and superintend one shop, each of which sliops,
as we apprehend, may well accommodate eight men, including the
master.]
[Resolved, That the instructions to be given to the officers of the
regiments, be sent to the council of war, and if approved, be forwarded ;
they are as follow :]
[Instructions for the officers of the severed regiments of the Massa-
chusetts Bay forces, who are immediately to go upon the recruiting
service.']
[You are not to enlist any deserter from the ministerial army, nor
any stroller, negro, or vagabond, or person suspected of being an ene-
my to the liberty of America, nor any under eighteen years of age.]
[As the cause is the best that can engage men of courage and prin-
ciple to take up arms, so it is expected that none but such will be ac-
cepted by the recruiting officer; the pay, provision, &c., being so am-
ple, it is not doubted but the officers sent upon this service, will, with-
out delay, complete their respective corps, and march the men forth-
with to camp.]
lllo.] COMMITTED OF SAFETY oM-i
[You ure not to enlist ;iny person who is not an Anicrican-born,
unless sucli person has a wife and family, and is a settled resident in
this country.]
[The persons you enlist, must be provided with good and coniplelc
arms.]
One small arm was received of Mr. Samuel Haynes, of Sudbury, for
the use of this colony, amounting, by appraisement, to thirty shillings,
for which a receipt was given him by the clerk.
AYhereas, considerable uneasiness has arisen in some part of the
army, from some of the soldiers enlisting a second time into other
companies than those which they first enlisted into, and if not prevent-
ed will be attended with great inconvenience, therefore, litsolced, that
it be recommended to the honorable Provincial Congress, to pass such
an order as may cause those soldiers who have conducted as above, to
return to their respective companies into which they were first enlist-
ed, or otherwise order, as to them in their wisdom shall seem meet.
Whereas, it is necessary [that] the house of Mr. John Vassal, order-
ed by Congress for the residence of his excellency General Washing-
ton, should be immediately put in such condition as may make it con-
venient for that purpose, therefore, Resolved, that Mr. Timothy Aus-
tin be, and hereby is empowered and authorized, to put said house in
proper order for the purposes above mentioned, and that he procure
such assistance and furniture as may be necessary to put said house in
proper condition for the reception of his excellency and his attend-
ants.
(Note.) — The following letter was sent to the towns rciiuired to ruriii;sh clothing by the committee
of suiiplies.
" Watektow.n, Jllv 10, 1775."
" Gentlemen: — Id obedience to the older of Congress, we have proportioned thirteen thousand
coats on all the towns and districts in this colony, excepting Boston and Charlcstowii ; and have in-
closed you the proportion, with their resolves, and a sample as a direction to you both as to the col-
or and quality of the cloth which shall be manufactured by you, and of the quality of the imported
cloths of which the coals shall be made ; we are to assure you, that the coats you ? upplv shall be
delivered to the men of your town so far as circumstances will admit
" We are, gentlemen, respectfully, your most humble servants,
DAVID CHEEVEE, Chairman.
P. S. A large number of shirts, stockings, and summer breeches are wanted immediately for the
use of the army, you are therefore, earnestly requested, as you value the lives and health of your
countrymen, to furnish this committee as soon as possible, with a large number of the said articles,
not less than two shirts, two pair of stockings, and two pair of summer breeches to each coat, ap-
portioned as the share of your town, and send them, as soon as procured, to Air. William Hunt, at
Watertowu. We shall be ready to order payment for the same as soon as received, according to the
prices which you shall certify, relying on vour judgiueut to prevent impositions upon the soldiers.
75
594 COMMITTEE OF SAFETY. [July 11,
July 11, 1775.
The commission from the honorable Congress to this committee,
was this day received from said Congress.
His excellency General Washington having signified to this commit-
tee, that they send Monsieur Viart to the town of Worcester ; Resolv-
ed, that a post immediately proceed with said Viart, to Worcester, and
that Mr. Devens provide a horse for that purpose.
Two small arms were delivered Col. Mansfield, for the use of his
regiment, amounting to five pounds eight shillings four pence, for
which a receipt was taken in the minute book.
liesolvcd, That the committee of correspondence in the town of
Worcester, be hereby required and directed to take into their custody,
Monsieur Viart, a Frenchman; that they suffer him, on his parole, to
have the liberty to walk for his health to a convenient distance about
the town, but to guard against his escape, till they shall receive fur-
ther orders on this subject, either from the general or this committee.
, The following order was issued.
Cambridge, July 11, 1775.
To the Tavcrners and Iimholders on the road between Cambridge and
Worcester.
You are hereby required to supply with necessary provisions, Mr.
, and a Frenchman with him, (he being on public service,) and
charge the same to this colony.
The honorable the Congress of this colony, having passed a resolve
that this committee be appointed to draw up and transmit to Great
Britain, a fair and impartial account of the late battle of Charlestown,
as soon as possible ; and this committee being exceedingly crowded
with business, therefore. Resolved, that the Rev. Doct. Cooper, Rev.
Mr. Gordon and the Rev. Mr. Peter Thatcher, be desired to draw up
a true statement of said action, as soon as may be, and lay it before
this committee.
The committee of safety of Marblchead, were advised by this com-
mittee, that five ships sailed this day from Boston, their destination
unknown.
The taverners and innholders on the road to Marblehead, were re-
quired to supply Mr. Thomas Williams, an express in the colony ser-
vice, with necessary provisions, and to transmit an account of the
charge thereof, to this committee.
1775.] COMMI'I'TKE or SAlM'/rV. 5ir,
Wherea^s, a imiubor ol lioiscs liavo l)ccii taken from llic enemy l>y
our soldiers, and a dillicwlty arises whose jjroperty the horses in justice
ought to be : therclbre, Resolved, that it be, and it is hereby recom-
mended, to the honorable Congress, to take such order respecting the
same, as to them, in their wisdom, shall seem meet.
[Whereas, his excellency General Washington, by his secretary Mr.
Reed, has sent to this committee fifteen persons, taken at Long
Island, this committee apprehending, that by their commission, they
have no power to dispose of said persons ; therefore. Resolved, that
the above fifteen persons be immediately sent to the honorable the
Congress, at Watertown, and that Mr. Richard Devens and Col. Orne,
be a committee to go to the Congress with this resolve.]
July 12, 1775.
[Whereas, frequent complaints have been made to this committee,
that many of the arms returned from the armorers have not been suffi-
ciently repaired, which error may have arisen from ignorant or careless
persons being employed as armorers, or for want of a master work-
man or superintendent in each shop, therefore, Resolved, that Benja-
min Guillam, an armorer in the shop belonging to Gideon Frost, be,
and he hereby is directed, to work as a master armorer in said shop,
and to superintend the other armorers in that shop, whose duty it shall
be to receive into said shop such arms as may, at any time, be sent
there, by any of the colonels in that part of the American army be-
longing to this colony, in order to be repaired ; to see that such arms
are properly repaired ; to deliver the same, when so repaired, to the
persons from whom they were received ; to see that no persons em-
ployed in said shop, as armorers, are either ignorant of said business,
or careless, or idle ; and if any such should be employed in the shop,
said Guillam shall, without delay, inform this committee thereof; and
that he suffer no more than eight armorers, including himself, to be
employed at any one time, in said shop.]
July 13, 1775.
[Mr. Benjamin Guillam, an armorer, had an order on the committee
of supplies for two hundred pounds of iron, and what files and old
brass he has occasion for, for himself and others that work in his
shop.]
[Mr. Monroe recommended Seth Johnston, of Old Rutland, and
Enoch Putnam, of Granby, as proper persons for armorers.]
[Thomas Organ was this day commissioned to take the care of the
596 COMMITTEE OF SAFETY. [July 14,
colony horses, and from time to time to attend to such orders as he
shall receive from this committee.]
[His excellency General Washington having this day ordered, to the
direction of this committee, ten prisoners taken some time past, at Ma-
chias, on board an armed cutter, the committee, apprehending from
their commission of the 8th instant, that they are altogether restricted
from acting as a committee but only in the recess of Congress, except
in conformity to certain special resolves of Congress, or for making
provision for the poor of Boston and Charlestown, and guarding
against the small pox ; as mentioned in said commission, have Re-
solved, that the said prisoners be sent to Congress for their orders, and
that Doct. Church be directed to attend Congress with this resolve.]
[Whereas, Lieut. Ely Stiles has represented to this committee, that
he has been at considerable expense in conducting the prisoners from
Machias to head quarters, and desires to be repaid, but this matter
not being within the powers with which this committee is vested, they
beg leave to recommend the consideration of this case to the honor-
able Congress.]
[Whereas, some evil minded persons, taking advantage of the con-
fusion occasioned by the battles of Lexington and Charlestown, have
plundered and carried off, into several parts of this and the neighbor-
ing colonies, sundry goods and household furniture belonging to some
of the unhappy sufferers of Boston and Charlestown : therefore. Re-
solved, that it be recommended to the honorable Congress, that the
several selectmen and committees of correspondence in the several
towns and districts within this colony, be directed and ordered, and
also the town officers in the neighboring colonies be, and they hereby
are severally and earnestly requested, to inspect their several towns
and districts, and if they observe any such goods or household furni-
ture, such officers are directed or desired to send all such effects to
the office of Mr. Joseph Pierce Palmer, quarter master general, in
Cambridge, for the benefit of the true and rightful proprietors, or that
the Congress may take such other measures as in their wisdom may
seem meet.]
July 14, 1775.
[Whereas, Mr. Seth Brown, who lately had the care of the artillery
horses, at Cambridge, resigned that employment : upon which this
committee recommended to the committee of supplies to appoint Mr.
Thomas Organ to the care of said horses, instead of said Brown, but
said committee of supplies having signified to this committee that such
appointment was not within their commission, but was, as they appre-
1775] COMMITTEE OF SAFETY. 597
liciidcd, within ours, and accordingly returned said recommendation,
with their reply upon the back thereof: and whereas, the public safety
requires that said horses should be taken proper care of, and always
kept in readiness for use upon the shortest notice, therefore, Resolved,
that although said appointment is not within, but contrary to the com-
mission of this committee, yet apprehending that it is absolutely ne-
cessary for the public service, that an hostler should be appointed for
that employment, and no other mode of appointment appearing, in
this time of the recess of Congress, this committee do, for the rea-
sons assigned, appoint said Organ to the care of said horses, for the
purpose aforesaid, until further orders.]
July 15, 1775.
[Ordered, That Mr. Sanger put as much hay into the general's
barns, in this town, as they will receive, any order to the contrary not-
withstanding.]
[Complaint having been made to this committee by the honorable
General Ward, and other officers in the army, that several men are
dangerously sick, and their lives would be greatly hazarded, except
immediate application of medicine be made to them, and that the sur-
geons of some of the regiments had applied, but could not obtain any;
a sub-committee was therefore chosen to visit the hospital, and to see
the surgeons, and, upon inquiry, found that there were no such medi-
cines as are immediately wanted : therefore, Resolved, that as the
lives of some part of the army are in great danger, for want of medi-
cines, notwithstanding the commission of the committee of safety does
not admit of direction in this matter, that Mr. Commissary Craigie be
desired to procure, at the expense of the colony, such medicines as
may be immediately and absolutely necessary; in conseciuence of
which, the following order was given Mr. Commissary Craigie :
Sir : — You are hereby desired immediately to supply the store un-
der your care, with such medicines as are absolutely necessary for the
present relief of the sick in the army.]i
(1.) Altliougli the sessions of the cominittco continued after tlie fifieontli dny of July, 1775, the
journal is not preserved to a lutct date.
APPENDIX.
PROCEEDliNGS
CONVENTIONS OF THE PEOPLE
COUNTIES OF MASSACHUSETTS.
CONVENTION OF SUFFOLK COUNTY.
At a meeting of the delegates of every town and district in the county of
Suffolk, held on Tuesday, the sixth of September, 1774, at the house of ]Mr.
Richard Woodward of Dedham, and, by adjournment, at the house of IMr,
Daniel Vosc of 31ilton, on Friday, the ninth instant, Joseph Palmer, Esq.
being chosen moderator, and William Thomi)son, Esq., clerk, a committee
was chosen to bring in a report to the convention, and the following, being
several times read, and put paragraph by paragraph, was unanimously voted,
viz. :
Whereas, the power, but not the justice ; the vengeance, but not the wis-
dom of Great Britain, which of old persecuted, scourged, and exiled our fu-
gitive parents from their native shores, now pursues us, their guiltless chil-
dren, with unrelenting severity : and whereas this, then savage and unculti-
vated desert, was purchased by the toil and treasure, or acquired by the
valor and blood of thosc^, our venerable progenitors, who bequeathed to us
the dear bought inheritance, who consigned it to our care and protection ;
the most sacred obligations are upon us to transmit the glorious purchase,
unfettered by power, unclogged with shackles, to our innocent and beloved
offspring. On the fortitude, on the wisdom, and on the exertions of this
important day, is suspended the flite of this new world, and of unborn mil-
lions. If a boundless extent of continent, swarming w-ith millions, will
tamely submit to live, move, and have their being at the arbitrary will of a
licentious minister, they will basely yield to voluntary slaver}', and future
generations shall load their memories with incessant execrations. On the
other hand, if we arrest the hand which would ransack our pockets, if we
disarm the parricide who points the dagger to our bo?nms, if wp nobly de-
feat that fatal edict, which proclaims a powpr to framr laMP for us in all
70
G02 SUFFOLK CONVENTION.
cases whatsoever, thereby entailing the endless and numberless curses of
slavery upon us, our heirs and their heirs forever; if we successfully resist
that unparalleled usurpation of unconstitutional power, whereby our capital
is roljbed of the means of life ; whereby tlie streets of Boston are thronged
with mihtary executioners ; whereby our coasts are lined, and the harbors
crowded with ships of war ; whereby the charter of the colony, that sacred
barrier against the encroachments of tyranny, is mutihited, and in effect an-
nihilated ; whereby a murderous law is lianied, to shelter villains from the
hands of justice ; whereby that unalienable and iiiestimaljle inheritance
which wc derived from nature, the constitution of Britain, which was cove-
nanted to us in the charter of the province, is totally wrecked, annulled,
and vacated ; posterity will acknowledge that virtue which preserved them
free and happy; and while we enjoy the rewards and blessings of the faith-
ful, the torrent of panegyric will roil down our reputations to that latest
period, Avhen the streams of time shall be absorbed in the aliyss of eternity.
Therefore, we have resolved and do resolve :
1. That whereas, his majesty, George the third, is the rightful successor
to the throne of Great Britain, and justly entitled to the allegiance of the
British realm, and, agreeably to compact, of the English colonies in Amer-
ica; therefore, wc, the heirs and successors of the first planters of this col-
ony, do cheerfully acknowledge the said George tiie third to be our rightful
sovereign, and that said covenant is the tciune and claim on which are
founded our allegiance and submission.
2. That it is an indispensable duty which we owe to God, our country,
ourseh'es, and posterity, by all lawful ways and means in our power, to
maintain, defend, and preserve those civil and religious rights and liberties,
for which, many of our fathers fought, bled, and died ; and to hand them
down entire to future generations.
3. That the late acts of the British parliament, for blocking up the harbor
of Boston, and for altering the established form of government in this col-
ony, and for screening the most flagitious violators of the laws of the prov-
ince from a legal trial, are gross infractions of those rights, to which we
are justly entitled by the laws of nature, the British constitution, and the
chai-ter of the province.
4. That no obedience is due from this province, to either or any part
of the acts abovementioned ; but that they should be rejected as the at-
tempts of a wicked administration to enslave America.
5. That so long as the justices of our superior courts of judicature, court
of assize, and general gaol delivery, and inferior courts of common pleas
in this county, arc appointed, or liold their places by any other tenure than
that which the charter and the laws of the province direct, they must be
considered as under undue influence, and are, therefore, unconstitutional
ofiicers, and as such, no regard ought to be paid to them by the people of
this county.
(y. That if the justices of the superior court of judicature, court of assize,
& c, jus^tices of tlic court of common pleas, or of tlie general sessions of
SUFFOLK CONVENTION. «;•):{
the pence, sliull sit iiiid act dm in;,' tlitir proseiit distjiiulified btute, lliirf coun-
ty will siii)|)i>rt and hear liaiinlcss all slKnitls and their di-pnties, eon.staljles,
jurors, and other ullieers, who shall refuse to carry into execution the orders
of said courts ; and, as fin* as is j)ossihie, to prevent the inconveniences that
must attend the susi)ension of the comts of justice, we do earnestly recom-
mend it to all creditors to exercise all reasonahie and •,'eneroiis forhearance
to their dehlors; and to all dehtors to dischar}:e their just debts, with all
possible speed ; and if any disjjutes concerning debts or trespasses should
arise, which cannot be settled by the parties, we reconinu iid it to them to
sidjinit all such causes to arbitration ; and if the parties, or cither of them,
shall refuse so to do, they ought to be considered as cooperating with the
enemies of this country.
7. That it be recommended to the collectors of taxes, constables, and all
other officers, who have public moneys in their hands, to retain the same,
and not to make any payment thereof to the province or county treasurers,
until the civil government of the province is placed upon a constitutiona
foundation, or luitil it sliall otlierwise be ordered by the proposed provhicial
congress.
8. Tliat the persons who have accepted seats at the coimcil board, by
virtue of a mandamus from the king, in conformity to the late act of the
British parliament, entitled an act for regulating the government of the
Massachusetts bay, have acted in direct violation of the duty they owe to
their country, and have thereby given great and just offence to this peo])Ie.
Therefore,
Resolved, That this ooimty do recommend it to all persons who have so
highly offended by accepting said department, and have not, already, pub-
licly resigned their seats at the council board, to make j)ublic resignations
of their places at said board, on or before the twentieth day of this instant
September ; and that all persons neglecting so to do, shall, from and after
that day, be considered by this county as obstinate and incorrigible enemies
to this colony.
9. That the fortifications began and now carrymg on upon Boston neck,
are justly alarming to this county, and give us reason to apprehend some
hostile intention against that town ; more es])ecially as the conunander iti
chief has, in a very extraordinary manner, i-enioved the powder from the
magazine at Charlestown, and has also forbidden the keeper of the maga-
zine at Boston, to deliver out to the owners, the ])0wder which they lodged
in said magazine.
10. That the late act of parliament, for establishing the romnii catholic
religion and the French laws in that extensive country uoav called Canada,
is dangerous in an extreme degree, to the protestant religion, and to the
civil rights and liberties of all America ; and therefore, as men and protes-
tant christians, we are indispensably obliged to take all i)roper measinesfor
our security.
11. That, whereas, our enemies have flattered tlicmselves that they shall
make an easy prey of this ninnerous, brave, and hardy people, from an aj)-
♦304 SUFFOLK CONVENTION.
|)reliensJon that they are unacquainted with mihtary discipline ; we, there-
fore, for the honor, defence, and security of this county and province, advise,
as it has been recommended, to take away all commissions from the officers
of the militia: that those who now hold commissions, or such other persons,
be elected in each town as officers in the militia, as shall be judged of suffi-
cient capacity for that purpose, and who have evidenced themselves to be
inflexible friends to the rights of the people : and that the inhabitants of
those towns and districts, who are qualified, do use their utmost diligence
to acquaint themselves with the art of war as soon as possible, and do for
that purpose appear under arms at least once every week.
12. That during the present hostile appearances on the part of Great
Britain, notwithstanding the many insults and oppressions which we most
sensibly resent ; yet, nevertheless, from our affection to his majesty, which
we have at all times evinced, we are determined to act merely on the defen-
sive, so long as such conduct may be vindicated by reason and the princi-
ples of self-preservation, but no longer.
13. That as we understand it has been in contemplation to apprehend
sundry persons of this county, who have rendered themselves conspicuous
in contending for the violated rights and liberties of their coiuitrymen, we
do recommend, should such an audacious measure be put in practice, to
seize and keep in safe custody every servant of the present tyrarmical and
unconstitutional government, throughout the county and province, until the
persons so apprehended be liberated from the hands of our adversaries,
and restored safe and uninjured to their respective friends and families.
14. That until our rights are fully restored to us, we will, to the utmost
of our power, (and we do recommend the same to the other counties,) with-
hold all commercial intercourse with Great Britain, Ii-eland, and the West
Indies, and abstain from the consumption of British merchandize and man-
ufactures, aiid especially of East India teas and piece goods, with such ad-
ditions, alterations, and exceptions, only as the grand Congress of the colo-
nies may agree to.
15. That under our present circumstances, it is incumbent on us to en-
courage arts and manufactures amongst us, by all means in our power ; and
that Joseph Palmer, Esq., of Braintrec, JVIr. Ebenezer Duer, of Ro.xbury,
Mr. James Boice and Mr. Edward Preston, of JMilton, and 3Ir. Nathaniel
Guild, of Walpole, be, and hereby arc appointed a committee, to consider
of the best ways and means to promote and establish the same, and report
to this convention as soon as may be.
IG. That the exigencies of our public affairs demand that a ))rovincial
congress be called, to concert such measures as may be ado})ted and vigor-
ously executed by the whole people ; and we do recommend it to the seve-
ral towns in this county, to choose members for such a provincial congress,
to be holden at Concord, on the second Tuesday of October next ensuing.
17. That this county, confiding in the wisdom and integrity of the Conti-
nental Congress, now sitting at Philadelphia, will pay all due respect and
submission to such measures as may be reconnnendcd by them to the colo-
SUFFOLK CONVENTION. mr,
uies, for tlie rrstoratiim inid estublishmciit of our jti^l rights, civil jiimI nli-
gioiis, and for reiiewiii'; tluit lianiioiiy and union hciwecn Great liritain and
the colonies, so earnestly wished for hy all good men.
18. WJiercas, the universal uneasiness vvliicli prevails among all orders of
men, arising from tlie wicked and op|)ressive measures of the present ad-
ministration, may inHucncc some unthinking persons to commit outrages
upon j)rivatc i)roj)erty : we would heartily reconunend to all jiersons of this
community, not to engage in any routs, riots, or licentious attacks upon the
property of any persons whatsoever, as being subxersive of all order and
government; but by a steady, manly, uniform, and persevering op])osition,
to convince our enemies, that in a contest so important, in a cause so
solemn, our conduct shall be such as to merit the approbation of the wise,
and the admiration of tic brave and free of every age and of every coun-
try.
19. That should our enemies, by any sudden invasion, render it necessary
for us to ask the aid and assistance of our brethren in the country, some
one of the committee of correspondence, or a selectman of such town, or
the town adjoining where such hostilities shall commence, or shall be ex-
pected to commence, shall despatch couriers with wntien messages to the
selectmen or committees of coi-respondence of the several towns in the vi-
cinity, with a written account of such matters, as ho shall despatch others to
committees or selectmen moi*e remote, till proper and sufficient assistance
be obtained ; and that the expense of said couriers be defrayed by the coun-
ty, until it shall be otherwise ordered by the provincial congress.
Voted, That Joseph Warren, Esq. and Doct. Benjamin Church, of Bos-
ton, Deacon Jose{)h Palmer and Col. Ebenezer Thayer, of Braintree, Capt.
Lemuel Robinson, William Ilolden, Esq. and Capt. John Iloinans, of Dor-
chester, Capt. William Heath, of lloxbury. Col. William Taylor and Doct.
Samuel Gardner, of Milton, Isaac Gardner, Esq,, Capt. Benjamin White
and Capt. Thomas Aspinwall, of Brookline, Nathaniel Sumner, Esq. and
Mr. Richard Woodward, of Dedham, be a committee to wait on his excel-
lency the governor, to inform him that this county are alarmed at the forti-
fications making on Boston neck, and to remonstrate against the same, and
the repeated insults offered by the soldiery to persons passing and repass-
ing into that town, and to confer with him upon those subjects.
WILLIAM THOMPSON, Clerk.
The committee appointed at the convention, accordingly prepared, and
on Monday, September 12th, 1774, presented the following address, viz. :
To his Excellency Thomas Gage, Esq., Captain General and Commander in
Chief of his Majesty's province of Massachusetts Bay.
May it please your Excellency : — The county of Suffolk, being greatly, and
in their opinion, justly alarmed, at the formidable appearances of hostility,
now threatening his majesty's good subjects of this country, and more par-
(506 SUFFOLK CONVENTION.
ticularly of the town of Boston, the loyal and faithful capital of this province,
beg leave to address your excellency, and to represent, that the apprehen-
sions of the people are more especially increased by the dangerous design
now carrying into execution, of repairing and mantling the fortification at
the south entrance of the town of Boston, which, when completed, may, at
any time, be improved to aggravate the miseries of that already impoverish-
ed and distressed city, by intercei)ting the wonted and necessary intercourse
between the town and country, and compel the wretched inhabitants to the
most ignominious state of humiliation and vassallage, Ijy depriving them of
the necessary suj)plies of provisions, for which they are chiefly dependant
on that communication.
We have been informed, that your excellency, in consequence of the ap-
plication of the selectmen of Boston, has, indeed, disavowed any intention to
injure the town in your present manreuvres, and expressed your purpose to
be for the security of the troops and his majesty's subjects in the town. We
are at a loss to guess, may it please your excellency, from whence your want
of confidence in the loyal and orderly people of this country could originate.
A measure so formidable, carried into execution from a preconceived though
causeless jealousy of the insecurity of his majesty's troops and subjects in
the town, dee})ly wounds the loyalty, and is an additional injury to the faith-
ful subjects of this country, and affords a strong motive for this application.
We therefore entreat your excellency, to desist from your design, assuring
your excellency, that tlie people of this county are by no means disposed to
injure his majesty's troops; they think themselves aggrieved and oppressed
by the late acts of parliament, and are resolved, by divine assistance, never
to submit to them ; but have no inclination to commence a war witii his
majesty's troops ; and beg leave to observe to your excellencj', that the fer-
ment now excited in the minds of the people, is occasioned by some late
transactions, by seizing the powder in the arsenal at Charlestown, 1)y
withholding the powder lodged in the magazine of the town of Boston from
the legal proprietors, insulting, beating, and abusing passengers to and from
the town by the soldiery, in which they have been encouraged by some of
their ofliicers, })utting the people in fear, and menacing them in their nightly
patrols into the neighboring towns, and more particularly, by fortifying the
sole avenue by land to the town of Boston. In duty, therefore, to his maj-
esty, and to your excellency, and for the restoration of order and security in
this county, we, the delegates from the several towns in this county, being
commissioned for this purpose, beg your excellency's attention to this our
humble and faithful address, assuring you , that nothing less than an immedi-
ate removal of the ordnance, and restoiing the entrance ijito that town to its
former state, and an effectual stop of all insults and abuses in future, can
place the inhabitants of this county in that state of peace aiid trar.rjuillity,
in which every free subject ought to live.
By order of the committee,
JOSEPIL \VA!IR1:N, Chtirman
Boston, Sej)t. 10, 1774.
SUFFOLK CONVKNTJOxN. <Jl)7
To \\ liicli aildii'Sfi, Ills oxccllc'iicy was |)lc;i.s(:(l to iiiukf lli«; (ollowiiig un-
Cj'kntlemen: — I liopcd tlic !is.-iii;incos I gnvc the scloctnien of Hoston, on
(lie ttiihject of }our address to me, iiad lieeii satisluctory to every boily. 1
cniiiiot possibly intercept tlie intercourse between tbe town and the country;
it is my duty and interest to encourage it ; and it is ns niucli inconsistent
with my duty and interest to Ibrm the strange scheme you are pleased to
suggest, of re(hR-ing the inhabitants to a state of Jiunfdiution and vassailage,
l»y stopping their supplies; nor have 1 made it easier to cflect this, thaii
wiint nature has made it. Vou mention the soldiers insulting, beating, and
jibusing passengers as a common thing ; an instance, perhai)s, may be given
of the bad behavior of some disorderly soldiers; but 1 nuist appeal to the
inhabitants ol" both town and country, lor their general good behavior, liom
their fust arrival to this time, I would ask, what occasion there is for such
numbers going armed in and out of the town, and through the country, in
an hostile manner ? Or, why were the guns removed, privately, in the
night, from the battery at Charlcstown ?
The refusing submission to the late acts of parliament, 1 find general
throughout the i)roviiice ; and 1 sliall lay the same before his majesty.
THOMAS GAGE.
Sept. 12, 1774.
The committee of the delegates from the several towns in the county of
Suffolk, wlio presented the address to the governor, on receiving his an-
swer, met together, and having carefully perused the same, wei-e of opinion,
that his excellency's answer could not be deemed satisfactory to the county.
And further thought, his excellency, in his reply, had been pleased to propose
several (piestions, w hich, if unanswered by the connnittee, would leave on
the minds of persons not fully acquainted with the state of facts, some very
disagreeable impressions concerning the contliict and behavior of the peo-
ple in this county and province. And the following address was unani-
mously voted to his excellency.
JMaij it please your Excellency : — The answer you have been pleased to fa-
vor us witli, to the address this day presented to you, gives us satisfaction so
far as it relates to your own intentions ; and we thank your excellency, for
the declaration w hich you have made, that it is your duty and interest to en-
coura"e an intercourse between town and country; and we entreat your in-
dulgence, while we modestly reply to the questions proposed in your an-
swer. Your excellency is too well acquainted w itb the himian heart not to
be sensible, that it is natural for the people to be soured by oppression, and
jealous for their personal security, when their exertions for the preservation
of their rights are construed into treason and rebellion. Our liberties are
invaded by acts of the I'ritish parlianif^it; troops are sent to enforce those
608 SUFFOLK CONVENTION.
acts ; they are now erecting fortifications at the entrance of the town of
Boston ; upon the completing those, the inhabitants of the town of Boston
will be in the power of a soldiery, who must implicitly obey the orders of an
administration, who have hitherto evinced no singular regard to the liberties
of America. The town is already greatly impoverished and distressed by
the operation of the barbarous port-bill. Your excellency, we are persuad-
ed, from principles of humanity, would refuse to be an actor in the tragical
scene that must ensue upon shutting up the avenues to the town, and I'e-
ducing the inhabitants by distress and famine, to a disgraceful and slavish
submission ; but that cruel work may possibly be reserved for a successor,
disposed and instructed thereto. Daily supplies of provisions ai'e necessary
for the subsistence of the inhabitants of the town. The country, disgusted
and jealous at the formidable operations now carrying on, survej' with hor-
ror, a plan concerted, whereby the inhabitants of the town of Boston may
be imprisoned ;ind starved, at the will of a military commander. They
kindly invite them to abandon the town, and earnestly solicit them to share
the homely banquet of peace in the country. Should their refusal involve
them in miseries hitherto unheard of, and hardly conceived of, the country
must stand acquitted, and will not hold their liberties so loosely, as to sacri-
fice them to the obstinacy of their brethren in Boston.
Your excellency has been pleased to order the powder from the magazine
in Charlestown ; to forbid the delivery of the powder in the magazine of
Boston to the legal proprietors ; to seize the cannon at Cambridge ; and
to bring a formidable number from Castle-William, which are now placed
at the entrance of the town of Boston ; and has, likewise, in addition to the
troops now here, been pleased to send for reenforcements to Quebec, and
other parts of the continent. These thiugs. Sir, together with the disposi-
tions of the ships of war, we humbly think, sufficiently justify the proceed-
ings for which your excellency seems to be at loss to account.
Your excellency has suggested, that nature has made it easy to cut off the
communication between town and country. Our only request is, that the
entrance into the town may remain as nature has formed it. If security to
his majesty's troops is the only design in the late manoeuvre, we beg leave
to assure your excellency, that the most certain, and by far the most honor-
able method of making them secure and safe, will be to give the people of
the province, tlje strongest proof that no design is forming against their lib-
erties. And we again solicit your excellency, with that earnestness which
becomes us on this important occasion, to desist from every thing which has
a tendency to alarm them, and particularly from fortifying the entrance into
the town of Boston. We rely on your excellency's wisdom and candor, that
in your j)roposcd rc^presentation to our common sovereign, you will endeav-
or to redeem us from the distresses which we apprehend were occasioned
by the grossest misinformation, and that you will assure his majesty, that no
wish of independence, no adverse sentiments or designs towards his majes-
ty or his troops now here, actuate his good subjects in this colony ; but that
their sole intention is, to preserve pure and inviolate those rights to which,
MIDDLKSKX (T)NVENTION. (iU9
as iiioii and Mii^lisli American.-!, tlioy an; justly (Militlcd, and wliicli liave
been guarantii-d to them by his majesty's royal predeceHSors.
A copy ol" the foregoing was delivered to Mr. Secretary Fiucker, hy tin;
chairman, with a desire, that he would, as soon as was convenient, present
it to the i.M>venior, and request his excellency to appoizit a time lor receiving
it in form. The secretary informed tht; chairman the ensuin^r day, that lie
had seen the governor, and had given him the cojiy of the address, but, that
he declined receiving it in lorm. The chairman mentioned to him the im-
portance of the business, declaring liis belief, that the troops were not in
any danger, and that no person had, so far as he had been informed, taken
any steps which indicated any hostile intention, until the seizing and carry-
ing off tlie powder Iroiu the magazine in the county of Middlesex; and that
if any ill consequences should arise, that should aflect the interest of Great
liritain, the most candid and judicious, both in Europe and America, would
consider the author of the fern)eiit now raised in the minds of the people,
as accountable for whatever consequences might follow from it.
He therefore desired the secretary, once more to make application to his
excellency, and to state the affair to him in that serious manner which the
case seemed to require. The secretary accordingly made a second a[)i>lica-
tion to the governor, but received for answer, tiiat he had given all the satis-
faction in his power, and he could not see that any further argumenta-
tion upon the subject would be to any purpose. Upon this, the committee
were again convened, and it was unanimously Resolved, that they had exe-
cuted the commission intrusted to them by the county, to the utmost of their
ability. And after voting that the reply to his excellency's answer should
be inserted in the public papers as soon as possible, they adjourned without
day.
Ever}' vote passed by tJie delegates of the county, and by the committee
appointed to wait on the governor, was unanimous.
CONVENTION OF MIDDLESEX COUNTY.
At a meeting of the following gentlemen, being committees from every
towTi and district in the county of Middlesex, and province of Massachu-
setts Bay, held at Concord, in said county, on the 30th and 31st days of Au-
gust, 1774, to consult upon measures pro[)er to be taken at the present very
important day, viz. :
Capt. Thomas Gardner, Doct. Samuel Blodget, Capt. Samuel Whit-
temore, Mr. Loammi Baldwin, Mr. Abraham Watson, Capt. Ezekiel IIow,
Mr. Samuel Thatcher, Mr. John Maynard, Capt. Eliphalet Robbitis, Mr.
Phinehas Gleason, Capt. Epinaim Frost, 3Ir. Samson Belcher, Mr. Joseph
Wellington, Mr. Thomas I'lympton, Mr. Nathaniel Sparhavvk, Mr. llezekiah
77
610 MIDDLESEX CONVENTION.
Maynard, Capt. Isaac Foster, Doct. Samuel Curtis, Mr. Peter Edes, Mr Al-
plieus Wood, Mr. William Wyer, Mr. Edward Banies, David Cheever, Esq.,
Mr. William Hoyd, Mr. Richard Devcns, Mr. Ebenezcr Hridge, Jr., Mr. John
Frothingham, Mr. Joshua Abbot, Mr. John Codman, Capt. Ralph Hill, Doct.
Isaac Foster, AJr. William Thompson, Mr. Samuel White, Doct. Timothy
Danforth, Mr. Josiali Capen, Capt. Josiah Bowers, Mr. David Beamis, Mr.
Solomon Pollard, JMr. David Sanger, Capt. Thaddeus Bowman, Mr. Elijah
Bond, Mr. Jonas Stone, Mr. Ephraim Wood, Jr., Mr. Joseph Loring, IMr.
John Flint, Mr. Benjamin Brown, Mr. Nathan Merriam, Jose})h Haven, Esq.,
Mr. William Clark, Capt. Josiah Stone, Mr. Joshua Hammond, Mr. William
Brown, Capt. Jonas Stone, Mi-. David Haven, Mr. Edward Durant, Mr. Eb-
enezer Marshall, Capt. Samuel Wyman, Mr. Jonathan Williams Austin, Mr.
Robert Douglass, Mr. Simeon Spaulding, Mr. Samuel Stevens, Jr, Mr. Jona-
than Stow, Mr. Benjamin Walker, Capt. Daniel Taylor, Capt. Francis Har-
ris, Mr. James Hussey, Mr. Asa Holden, Mr. James Locke, Mr. Obadiah
Sawtell, Henry Gardner, Esq., Mr. Benjamin Brown, Mr. John Marble, Mr.
Jonathan Flint, Doct. Charles Whitman, Mr. Joseph Parker, Capt. Phinehas
Taylor, Capt. John De.vter, Mr. Joseph Bryant, Capt. Ebenezer Harnden,
Mr, James Hay, Mr. Thomas Hill, JMr. Edward Buckman, JMr, Samuel
Sprague, James Prescott, Esq., Mr. James Kettell, Oliver Prescott, Esq., Mr.
Benjamin Pierce, Capt. Josiah Sawtell, Mr. Thomas Rand, Capt. Benjamin
Jaquith, Mr. Josiah Smith, Mr. Timothy Walker, Mr. Joshua Symonds, Mr.
Edward Kendall, Mr. J^benezer Brooks, Jr., Mr. William Borden, Capt. Josiah
Ilartwell, JMr. Thomas Ui)ham, Mr. Oliver Hoar, Mr. Abel Perry, Mr. Daniel
Rogers, Jr., Mr. Ilezekiah Broad, Mr. Samuel Park, Mr. Peter Colburn, Capt.
Thomas Mellen, Mr. Ephraim Colbui-n, Capt. Roger Dench, Mr. Stephen
Davis, Mr. Jacob Gibbs, John Read, Esq., Capt, Jonathan Minot, Mr. Joseph
Hartwell, 31r. John Abbot, Mr. John Mooie, Doct. Asaph Fletcher, Capt
John Webber, Mr. Nathaniel Boynton, Mr. Daniel Mellen, Mr. Zacheus
Wright, Mr. Aaron Phipps, Capt. Richard Sanger, Mr. Joshua Hemeuway,
Mr. Benjamin Fassett, Mr. Francis Falkner, Mr. Samuel Bullard, JMr. John
Heywood, Capt. William Coolidge, Mr. Ephraim Hapgood, 3Ir, Jonathan
Hammond, Capt. William Prescott, IMr. Samuel Harrington, IMr. Henry
Woods, JMr. Jacob Bigelow, IMr. William Green, Capt. Abijah Brown, Mr.
Nehcmiah Ilobart, JMr. Charles Witherell, Mr. Joseph Danforth, Cajjt. Ed-
mund Bancroft, Mr. Lemuel Perham, Mr. Josiah Fisk, Mr. Jonathan Brown,
Mr. Samuel Farrar, Mr. Aaron Beard, Capt. Abij;di Pierce, Mr. David Bay-
ley, Capt. Eleazer Rrooks, Mr. Ebenezer Stone, Capt. Joseph Butterfield,
Mr. Jonathan Locke.
The Honorable James Prescott, Esq , was chosen chairman.
After having read the late act of the British parliament, entitled an act
for the better regulating the government of the province of Massachusetts
Bay in New England, and debated thereon :
Voted, That a committee be appointed to take into consideration the said
act, and report to this meeting.
Voted, That Mr. Jonathan Williams Austin of Chelmsford, Ca])t. Thomas
MIODI.KSKX CONVENTION. till
(•'anliKT ul" ('imiliiidfrt', l><><'I. Isaac I'"()st(M- ol' (Miarli^town, < 'apt. .lo.sifih
Stone ol" riainiiiu:liaiii, iMr. Kiclianl Ocvciis oi" CliarlisK.wii, Doct. 01i\cr
Prescott of (Jrotoii, llciiry Ciunliiur, liscj. of Stow, i\lr. ^ViHialM Hrouii ot'
Franiiiigliarii, and IMr, El>ciiezcr Brulgo, Jr. of" Uilltrii-.i, Ijo the coiiuiiiltce,
wlio roi)ortcil as Ibllows :
It is evident to every attentive mind, tliat this |)rovince is in a very dan-
gerous and alarming situation. W'e are obliged to say, liowover jjainlnl it
may be to us, tliat the question now is, wliether, by a submission to some
late acts of the parliament of Great I'ritain, we are contented to be the
most abject slaves, and entail tliat slavery on posterity arter us, or by a
manly, joint, and virtuous opposition, assert and support our freedom.
There is a mode of conduct, which in our very critical circumstances, we
would wish to adopt; a conduct, on the one hand, never tamely submissive
to tyranny and opi)ression, on the other, never degenerating into rage, pas-
sion, and confusion. This is a spirit which we revere, as we fiiid it exhib-
ited in former ages, and will command ap[)lause to the latest posterity.
The late acts of parliament jtervade the whole system of jurisprudence,
by which means, we think, the fountains of justice are fatally corrupted.
Our defence must, therefore, be immediate in projiortion to the suddenness
of the attack, and vigorous in jiroportion to the danger.
^Vc must now exert ourselves, or all those efforts, which, for ten years
past, have brightened the annals of this coimtry, will be totally frustrated.
Life and death, or, what is more, freedom and slavery, are, in a peculiai*
sense, now before us, and the choice and success, under God, depend great-
ly upon ourselves. We are th(;retbre bound, as struggling not only for our-
selves, but t'utiu-c generations, to express our sentiments in the following re-
solves ; sentiments which, we thijik, are founded in truth and justice, and
therefore sentiments we are determined to abide by.
Resolved, That as true and loyal subjects of our gracious sovereign, George
the third, king of Great IJritain, we by no means intend to withdraw our
allegiance from him ; but, while permitted the free exercise of our natural
and charter rights, are i-esolved to expend life and treasure in his service.
Resolved, That when our ancestors emigrated from Great 13ritain, charters
and solemn stipulations expressed the conditions, and what jiarticular rights
they yielded ; what each party had to do and perform ; and which each of
the contracting jiarties were equally bound by.
Resolved, That we know of no instance, in which this province has trans-
gressed the rules on their part, or any ways forfeited then- natural and char-
ter rights to any jjower on earth.
Resolved, That the parliament of Great Britain have exercised a power
contrary to the abovementioned ch;u-ter, by passing acts, which hold up
their absolute supremacy over the colonists ; by another act blocking up the
port of Boston ; and by two late acts, the one entitled, an act for better reg-
ulating the government of the province of Massachusetts Bay, the other en-
titled, an act for the more impartial adtninistration of justice in saiil prov-
612 MIDDLESf:X CONVENTION.
ince ; and by enforcing all these iniquitous acts with a large armed force, to
dragoon and enslave us.
Resolved, That the late act of parliament, entitled an act for the better
regulating the government of the province of the Massachusetts Bay in
New England, expressly acknowledges the authority of the charter, granted
by their majesties king William and queen JMary, to said province ; and that
the only reasons suggested in the preamble to said act, which is intended to
deprive us of the privileges confirmed to us by said chaiter, are, the inex-
pediency of continuing those privileges, and the charge of their haAing
been forfeited, to which charge the province has had no opportunity of
answering.
Resolved, That a debtor may as justly refuse to pay his debts, because it
is inexpedient for him, as the parliament of Great Britain deprive us of
our charter privileges, because it is inexpedient to a coiTupt administra-
tion for us to enjoy them.
Resolved, That in all free states there must be an equilibrium in the
legislative body, without which constitutional check, they cannot be said
to be a free people.
Resolved, That the late act, which ordains a council to be appointed by
his majesty, his heirs and successors, from time to time, by warrant un-
der his or their signet or sign manual, and which ordains that said council-
lors shall hold their ofiices respectively for and during the pleasure of his
majesty, his heirs and successors, eflfectually alters the constitutional equili-
brium, renders the councillors absolute tools and creatures, and entirely de-
stroys the importance of the representative body.
Resolved, 'I'hat no state can long exist free and happy, where the course
of justice is obstructed, and that, when trials by juries, which are the grand
bulwarks of life and property, are destroyed or weakened, a people falls im-
mediately under arbitrary power.
Resolved, That the late act, which gives the governor of this province a
power of appointing judges of the superior and inferior courts, commis-
sioners of oyer and teiminer, the attorney general, provosts, marshals, and
justices of the peace, and to remove all of them, the judges of the superior
court excepted, without consent of council, entirely subverts a free adminis-
tration of justice ; as the fatal experience of mankind, in all ages, has testi-
fied, that there is no greater species of corruption, than when judicial and
executive officers dej)end, for their existence and support, on a power inde-
pendent of the people.
Resolved, That l)y ordaining jurors to be sunnnoned by the sheriff only,
which sheriff is to be appointed by the governor, without consent of coun-
cil, that security which results from a trial by our peers is rendered alto-
gether precarious, and there is not only an evident infraction upon our
charter, but a subversion of our common rights as Englishmen.
Resolved, That every people have an absolute right of meeting together to
consult upon common grievances, and to petition, remonstrate, and use
every legal method lor their removal.
MIDULliSF.X CONVENTION. «;i:i
Resolved, Tli.it llii- net wliidi innliiMts iliesc^ cniistittitioiiiil Dicftinffs, mtg
away the scanuldiiiji ot" lliifjlisli rncdom, and rtdincs iis to a iiioht al)j<;ct
state of vassallage and slavery.
Resolved, That it is our opinion, these late acts, if quietly submitted to,
will annihilate the last vestiges of liberty in this province, and therefore we
must be jnstiried by God and the world, in never submitting to them.
Resolved, TliHt it is the opinion of this body, that the present art, respecting
the government of the i)rovince of iVIassachusetts Day, is an artful, deej)-laid
l)lan of o|)pression and despotism, that requires great skill and wisdom to coun-
teract. This wisdom we have endeavored to collect from the uifited senti-
ments of the county. And although we are grieved that we are obliged to
mention any thing that may be attended with such very important conse-
quences, as may now ensue, yet a sen.se of our duty as men, as freemen, as
christian freemen, united in the firmest bonds, obliges us to Resolve, that
every civil otlicer now in commission in this province, and acting in con-
formity to the late act of parliament, is not an officer agreeably to our char-
ter, therefore unconstit;!ti(jnal, :.).(! ought to be opposed, in the manner
hereafter recoimnended.
Resolved, That we will obey all those civil officers, now in commission,
whose commissions were issued before the first day of Julj-, 1774, and sup-
port them in the execution of their offices according to the manner usual
before the late attempt to alter the constitution of this jjrovince ; nay, even
although the governor should attempt to revoke their commissions. But,
that, if any of said officers shall accept a commission under the present plan
of arbitrary government, or in any way or manner whatever, assist the gov-
ernor or administration in the assault now making on our rights and liber-
ties, we will consider them as having foi-feited their commissions, and yield
them no obedience.
Resolved, That whereas the Hon. Samuel Danforth and Joseph Lee, Esq's,
two of the judges of the inferior court of common jjleas for the county,
have acccptcfl commissions under the new act, by being sworn members of
his majesty's council, appointed by said act, we therefore look upon them as
utterly incapable of holding any office whatever. And whereas, venires
on the late act of parliament, have issued from the court of sessions, signed
by the clerk, we think they come under a preceding resolve, of acting in
conformity to the new act of parliament. We therefore Resolve, that a sub-
mission to courts thus acting, and under these disqualifications, is a submis-
sion to the act itself, and of consequence, as we are resolved never to sub-
mit in one iota to the act, we will not submit to courts thus constituted,
and thus acting in conformity to said act.
Resolved, That as, in consequence of the former resolve, all business at
the inferior comt of common pleas and court of general sessions of the
peace, next to be holden at Concord, must cease ; to prevent the many in-
conveniences that may arise therefrom, we Resolve, that all actions, writs,
suits, &c., brought to said court, ought to remain in the same condition, as
at present, unless settled by consent of parties, till we know the result of a
614 MIDDLESEX CONVENTION.
provincial and continental congress. And we Resolve, that no plaintiff, in
any cause, action, or writ, aforesaid, ought to enter said action in said court,
thus declared to be unconstitutional. And we Resolve, if the court shall sit,
in defiance to the voice of the county, and default actions and issue execu-
tions accordingly, no officer ought to serve such process. And we are also
determined to support all constables, jurors, and other officers, who, from
these constitutional principles, shall refuse obedience to courts which we
have resolved are founded on the destruction of our charter.
Resolved, That it is the opinion of this body of delegates, that a Provincial
Congress is absolutely necessary in our present unhappy situation.
These are sentiments which we are obliged to express, as these acts are
intended immediately to take place. We must, now, either oppose them,
or tamely give up all we have been struggling for. It is this that has forced
us so soon on these very important resolves. However, we do it with hum-
ble deference to the provincial and continental congress, by whose resolu-
tions we are determined to abide ; to whom and the world we cheerfully
appeal for the uprightness of our conduct.
On the whole, these are "great and profound questions." We are grieved
to find ourselves reduced to the necessity of entering into the discussion of
them. But we deprecate a state of slavery. Our fathers left a fair inheri-
tance to us, purchased by a waste of blood and treasure. This we are re-
solved to transmit equally fair to our children after us. No danger shall af-
fright, no difficulties intimidate us ; and if, in suj)port of our rights, we are
called to encounter even death, we are yet undaunted, sensible that he can
never die too soon, who lays down his life in support of the laws and liber-
ties of his country.
Which report being maturely deliberated,
Voted, That the sense of the whole body, respecting the same, be collect-
ed by yeas and nays ; which being done, there were one hundred and forty-
six yeas, and four nays.
Voted, That it be recommended to the several towns and districts in this
county, that each apjioint one or more delegates to attend a provincial meet-
ing, to be holden at Concord, on the second Tuesday of October next.
Voted, That a fair copy of the proceedings of tliis meeting, be jnade out,
and forwarded to the grand Continental Congress, and also to the town
clerk of each town in this county.
Voted, That the thanks of this meeting be given to the Hon. James Pres-
cott. Esq , for his faithful services as chairman.
Voted, That this meeting be dissolved, and it was accordingly dissolved.
EBENEZER BRIDGE, Clerk.
ESSKX CONVENTION. 015
CONVENTION or ESSEX COUNTY.
At a iiiL'ctiiig (>r(lc'lt'i.'atcs trorii every town in tlic (•(iiiiity of l',.«sc.\, in llie
]ii<i\iiicc of Massachusetts Bay, held ut Ipswicli, ill the said c<jiinty, on ihe
(Jlh and 7lli days olSepteiuher, 1774, viz.: for
iSw^fHi—;! Ion. Richard Derby, Juii. Escf., Air. John Pickering, Jim., CapL
Jonathan Gardner, J mi., C'apt. Riclianl Manning, Capt. Tiiinithy Pickering,
Jun.
Danvers — Doct Samuel Ilolten, Capt. William Shillaber.
Ipsioich — Capt. Michael Farley, Mv. John Patch, 3d, Mr. Daniel Noyes,
Mr. Jonathan Cogswell, Jiui., 31r. Nathaniel Farley.
.Ycu'hun/ — Hon. Joseph Genish, Esq., Capt. Joseph Hale, Capt Moses
Little, Samuel Gcrrish, Esq.
JVewbitryport — Capt. Jonathan Greeiileaf, Tristam Dalton, Esq., Mr. Ste-
phen Cross, Mr. John Uroinfield.
Marblchead — Jeremiah Lee, Esq., Azor Oi-ue, Esq., Mr. Elbridge Gerry,
Mr. Joshua Oine, Mr. William Dolliber.
Lynn — Capt John Mauslield, Mr. Daniel Manslicld.
Andovtr — James Frye, Esq., Mr. Joshua Holt, 31r. Samuel Osgood.
Beverly — Capt. Benjamin Lovet, JNIr. Samuel Goodridgc, Mr. Joseph
Wood.
Rowley — ]Mr. Nathaniel Mighill, Daniel Spafford, Esq.
Salisbwy — Nathaniel Currier, Estp, Mr. Samuel Smith, Mr. Henry Eaton.
Haverhill — Samuel White, Esq., Mr. Jonathan Webster, Mr. Isaac Red-
dington, Mr. Josejih Haynes.
Gloucester — Daniel William, Esq., Capt. Peter Coffin, Mr. Samuel WLitte-
more, John Low, Esq , Mr. Solomon Parsons.
Topsjicld— Capt. Samuel Smith, ftlr. John Gould, Mr. Euos Iviiight.
Almsbury — Air. Winthrop 3Ierrill, Mr. Caleb Pilsbury.
Bradford — Capt. Daniel Thurston, Mr. Peter Russell.
Jf'enhum — Mr. Renjaniin Fairfield, Capt. Jacob Dodge, Doct. Tyler Porter.
Manchester — John Lee, Esq., Capt. Andrew IMusters, Mr. Andrew Wood-
burj'.
Methucn — Mr. John Bodwell, Mr. John Sergeant.
Boxford — Capt, Asa Perley, Mr. Thomas Perley, Mr, Josejih Ilovey.
Middleton — Cajit. Archelaus Fuller, Mr. Ephraim Fuller, Doct. Silas
Meriani.
Voted, That Jeremiah Lee, Esq., be chairman.
Several papers relative to the situation of our public affairs, and the alter-
ation of our constitution and laws, intended by the late act of Parliament,
for regulating the government of this [irovince, as also the said act, being
read ; after consultation and debate had thereon, a committee of nine per-
sons were appointed to consider and report on the same The committee
reported a number ol" resolves, which they thought necessary to be entered
616 ESSEX CONVENTION.
into by the county at this time ; which resolves, alter being read several
times, debated on, and amended, were unanimously accepted, the delegates
one by one, declaring their assent.
The report is as follows :
The delegates ap]Jointed by the several towns in this county, to meet to-
gether at this alarming crisis, to consider and determine on such measures
as shall appear to be expedient for the county to adopt ; deejjly impressed
with a sense of the importance of this delegation, of the abilities and quali-
fications necessary for conductmg our jjublic afl'airs with wisdom and \n-u-
dence, but with the firmness and resolution becoming freemen, with the re-
spect and deference due to the sentiments of our brethren in the other coun-
ties of the province, with submission to the future determinations of a [)ro-
vincial assembly, and the decisions of the grand American Congress, do, in
the name of the county, make the following resolves, viz. :
1. That the several acts of parliament which infringe the just rights of the
colonies, and of this province in particular, being subjects of deliberation be-
fore the Continental Congress, renders it expedient for this county to suspend
their determinations respecting them ; except so far as their imuiediate ope-
ration requires immediate opposition. That the act of parliament, entitled
an act for the better regulating the government of the province of the
Massachusetts Bay, in New England, being a most dangerous infraction of
our constitutional and charter rights, and tending to a total subversion of the
government of the province, and destruction of our liberties ; and having
been, with uncommon zeal, with arbitrary exertions, and military violence,
attempted to be carried into execution ; and this zeal, these exertions, and
this violence still continuing : from the sacred regard, and the inviolable
attachment we owe to those rights which are essential to and distinguish us
as Englishmen and freemen ; and from a tender concern for the peace of
this county, we are bound to pursue all i-easonable measures, by which any
attempts to enforce immediate obedience to that act may be defeated.
2. That the judges, justices, and other civil officers in this county, appoint-
ed agreeably to the charter and the laws of the province, are the only civil
officers in the county whom we may lawfully obey ; that no authority what-
ever, can remove these officers, except that wliicli is constituted pursuant to
the charter and those laws ; that it is the duty of these officers to contin-
ue in the execution of their respective trusts, as if the aforementioned act of
parliament had never been made ; aud, that while they thus continue, un-
tainted by any oflicial conduct in conformity to that act, we will vigorously
support them therein, to the utmost of our power, indemnify them in their
persons and ])roi)prty, and to their lawful doings yield a ready obedience.
3. That all civil officers in the province, as well as private persons, who
shall dare to conduct in conformity to the aforementioned act, for violatiug
the charter and constitution of the province, are, and will l)e considered by
thiscounty, as its unnatural and malignant enemies; and in the opinion of this
body, such men, while they persist in such conduct, and so contribute to in-
ESSL:\ convention. G17
volvc tlip roloiiirs in nil the Iiorrors oCa civil wnr, arc unfit for civil society ;
their lands ought not to be tilled by the labor of any American, nor their
ianiilies su|)|ilied with clothing or food.
4. The fourth resolve, which respected Peter Fr^e, Es<| , was omitted by
the direction of the delegates of Salem, IVJarblchcad, and J)iinver.«, they sup-
posing his frank and generous »leclaration inserted in the |)apers would give
full satisliiction to the county, and render a publication of tliis resolve super-
fluous and improper.
5. That a committee bo raised to wait on the honorable William Ihownc,
Esq , of Salem, and acquaint him, that with grief this county has viewed his
exertions for carrying into execution act.s of parliament, calculated to en-
slave and ruin his native land ; that wiiile the county would continue the
respect for several years paid him, it tirmly resolves, to detach from every
future connection with all such as shall persist in supporting, or in any way
countenancing the late arbitrary edicts of parliament ; that the delegates, in the
name of the county, request him to excuse them from the painful necessity
of considering and treating him as an enemy to his country, and therefore,
that he would resign his office as councillor on the late establishment, and
decline as a judge, and in every other capacity, to execute the late acts of
parliament, and all others deemed by the province unconstitutional and op-
pressive.
6. That in the opinion of this body, all town meetings in this county,
ought to be called agreeably to the laws of the province and the ancient
usage of the county.
7. That it is the opinion of this ftody of delegates, that a provincial con-
gress is absolutely necessary in our i)resent unhappy situation ; and, that as
wiits are now issued for the election of representatives for a general as-
sembly, to be held at Salem, on the fifth day of October next, the represen-
tatives so elected will properly form such provincial congress. And it is
lurther our opinion, that these represent^itives should be instructed by their
several towns, to resolve themselves into a provincial congress accordingly;
if when assembled, they shall deem it necessary or expedient; in order to
consult and determine on such measures as they judge will tend to promote
the true interest of his majesty, and the peace, welfare, and prosperity of the
province.
8. Deeply atTected with a sense of the miseries ai;d calamities now im-
pending over the colonies, and this province in paiticular, we are con)pelled
to form these resolutions ; which, as we apprehend, being founded in jus-
tice and necessity, on the principles of our natural, essential, and unaliena-
ble rights, we are determined to abide by. At the same time, we fiankly,
and with sincerity declare, that we still hold ourselves subjects of his majes-
ty king George the third; as such, will bear him true allegiance; and are
ready with our lives and fortunes, to support and defend his person, crown,
and dignity, and his constitutional authority over us. But, by the horrors of
slavery, by the dignity and happiness attending virtuous freedom, we are
constrained to declare, that we hold our liberties too dear to be sported with,
78
CIS HAMPSHIRE CONVENTION.
and are therefore, most seriously determined to defend them. This, in the
present dispute, we conceive may be effected by i)eaceable measures. But,
though above all things, slavery excepted, we deprecate the evils of a civil
war ; though we are deeply anxious to restore and presei've harmony with
our brethren in Great Britain ; yet, if the despotism and violence of our ene-
mies should finally reduce us to the sad necessity, we, undaunted, are ready
to appeal to the last resort of states ; and will, in support of our rights, en-
counter even death, " sensible that he can never die too soon, who lays
down his life in support of the laws and liberties of his countiy."
Voted, That Jerenuali Lee, Esq., Doct. Sanuiel Holten, and Mr. Elbridge
Gerry, be a connnittee to wait on the Hon. William Browne, Esq., agreeably
to the fifth resolve.
Tooted, That a committee be chosen to notify the members of this body to
assemble again when they shall think it necessary ; and that the members
from Salem and Marblehead, be this^committee ; and that they, or the major
])art of them, be and they are hereby empowered to issue notifications ac-
cordingly,
JOHN PICKERING, Jun., Clerk.
Salem, Friday, September 9, 1774.
Jeremiah Lee, Esq., Doct. Samuel Holten, and Mr. Elbridge Gerry, waited
on tlie honorable William Browne, Esq., at Boston, with the fifth resolve of
the delegates of this county, and received the following answer, viz. :
Gentlemen : — I cannot consent to defeat his majesty's intentions, and dis-
ajjpoint his expectations, by abandoning a post to which he has been gra-
ciously pleased to appoint me ; an appointment made without my solicita-
tion or privity, and accepted by me from a sense of duty to the king, and the
hopes of serving my country. I wish therefore, to give him no cause to sus-
pect my fidelity, and I assure you, I will do nothing without a true regard
to its interest. "As a judge, and in every other capacity," I intend to act
with honor and integrity, and to exert my best abilities ; and be assured, that
neither persuasions can allure me, nor shall menaces compel nie to do any
thing dei-ogatory to the character of a councillor of his majesty's province of
the Massachusetts Bay.
WILLIAM BROWNE.
Boston, September 9th, 1774.
To Jeremiah Lee, Esq., Doct. Samuel Holten, and Mr. Elbridge Gerry.
CONVENTION OF HAMPSHIRE COUNTY.
At a Congress of committees from every town and district within the
county of Hampshire, and province of the Massachusetts Bay, excepting
IIAMPSIIlllE CONVENTION, t;i9
rimrlfinont and Soutliwiok, lu'Id at tlie court lioiiso, in NoitliumjUon, with-
in llif said foiiiity, on tin- ti'iti and '2'.U\ days of Sfptcinlx-r, 1771, to connult
ii|iiiii ineasnn-s pioiJrr to lie takrri at tliis time ol" ficiicral distress in the
province, occat-ioiicd by the lato attacks of the British parliament on the
constitntion of the said province, whereby tliey have endeavored to sap and
destroy its most fnndamental riglits, and reduce tiie inhal)itants lliereof to a
state of vassaliago and slavery :
Mr. Ebenczcr Hunt, Jun., of Nortiiampton, was chosen clerk of said con-
gress, and Mr. Timothy Danielson, of Brinifield. chairman.
Alter divera observations made upon the late acts of the Britisli parlia-
ment, for taxing the American colonies, and for subverting the constitution
of this })rovince, a committee of nine persons, mendjers of the said congress,
were appointed to consider and report thereon ; which committee reported
as follows :
Tlie committees appointed by the several towns in this county, to meet
together at this alarming crisis, to consider and determine on measures ex-
pedient for the county to adopt, with the respect and deference due to the
future determinations of a provincial congress, and the decisions of the grand
American Congress, as they are not able to make any resolves respecting
the rights and liberties of the people of this province, more agreeable to
their own sentinjents than such as have been made by then* brethren in the
other counties, do, on mature deliberation, make the following, for the most
part similar to theirs, viz. :
1. That as true and loyal subjects of George the third, king of Great
Jiritain, &c., we by no means intend to withdraw our allegiance from liim,
so long as he will defend and protect us in the free anfl full exercise and en-
joyment of our charter rights and liberties.
y. That the chai*ter of this province is a most solemn stipulation and com-
pact between the king and the inhabitants thereof; aiid that it ought to be
kept sacred and inviolate l)y each party, and that it cannot, in any respect, be
varied or altered by one party only, w itliout a niost criminal breach of laith,
and that they know of no instance, wherein the inhabitants of this province,
on their part, have violated the said compact.
.*'. That the several acts of the British parliament, which infringe the just
riurhts of the colonies, and of this province in particular, being subjects of
deliberation betbrc the Continental Congress now sitting, renders it expe-
dient for this county to suspend their determination respecting them, except
so far as their immediate operation requires our immediate resolutions
thereon.
4. That whereas, his excellency Thomas Gage, Esq., hitely appointed by
his majesty, governor of this province, did, at the last session of the great and
general court, wholly decline and refuse to accept the grant for his support,
then made him by both houses of assembly ; and has since, by his proclama-
tion, bearing date 23d of August last, and otherwise, manifested and declar-
ed his full resolution and determination to execute a late act of the British
mo HAMPSIIIHE CONVENTION.
parliament, entitled an act foi* the better regulating the government of the
province of the Massachusetts IJay, in New^ England, whereby they have at-
tempted to sap the foundation of the constitution of this province, and anni-
hilate the most important rights of the inhabitants thereof; and has also, ac-
tually, at Salem, by an armed force, endeavored to execute the said acts ;
we are obliged therefore, to declare, that our minds are so deeply impress-
ed with the abovesaid conduct of his excellency Thomas Gage, Esq., as to
excite in us very great doubts whether he can any longer be considered as
the constitutional governor of this province ; and consequently, whether any
writs issued by him for conveifmg a general assembly, or any other acts
whereby he shall attempt to exercise the office of a governor of this prov-
ince, have any force or validity, and whether any obedience or respect there-
to can be paid, without a degree of submission to and acknowledgment of
the force and validity of said acts; but in case any towns within the prov-
ince should judge it safe and expedient so far to regard the writs lately is-
sued by his excellency Thomas Gage, Esq., for the convening a general
court or assembly of this province, to be held at Salem, on the 5th day of
October next, as to elect and depute any persons as their representatives to
repair to Salem, at the time aforesaid, we cannot but declare it as our clear
opinion, that they ought, and our full expectation is that they will, most ma-
turely and deliberately consider, whether any such representatives can do
any one act iu concert with his excellency Thomas Gage, Esq., and his
mandamus council, without an implied acknowledgment of the authority
and force of the abovesaid acts of parliament.
5. That it is the opinion of this congress, that a provincial congress is ab-
solutely Jiecessary in our present unliai)py situation, and that we apj)rove of
the proposal rwade by a late Middlesex congress, that the said provincial
congress should be holden at Concord, on the second Tuesday of October
next, aud we accordingly recommend to the several towns and districts
within this county, that each appoint one or more delegates to attend the
same.
6. That the collectors, constables, and all other officers, who have or shall
have by them moneys collected upon the province assessments, delay mak-
ing i)ayment of the same to the honorable Harrison Gray, Esq., until the civil
government of this province is placed upon u constitutional foundation, but
that they deposit the same in the treasuries of their respective towns and
districts.
7. Whereas, tlie universal uneasiness which prevails among all orders of
men in this county, arising from the unjust and oppressive measures of the
present administration, may influence some persons inconsiderately to com-
mit outrages u])on particular persons or their property, we would heartily
recommend to all the inhabitants of this county, not to engage in any routs,
riots, or licentious attacks upon the person or property of any one, as being
subversive of all order and government ; but, by a steady, manly, uniform,
and persevering opposition to the said measures, to convince our enemies,
PLYMUL'i'll CUNVE.NTION. Oi\
that ill a contest so important and solemn, our conduct bliall be such an to
merit tlic jipiirohatioii oCall sober and wise men.
8 Tbat in tbe opinion of tbis Congress, all town meetings ougbt to be
called agreeably to llie laws and ancient usage of tbe province.
y. Tliat the inliabitaiits of ibe several towns and districts vvitliin tbis comi-
ty, be advised, for tbeir own bonor, and for tbe defence of ibeir country,
that tliey use tbe utmost diligence, Ibrtbwitb, to actpiaint ibemselves witb tbe
military art, uiulcr tiie command and direction of sucb persons as tiiey sball
choose, and tbat they furnish themselves with the lull lawful quantity of am-
nmuitioD, and good effective arms, as soon as may be, for that purpose.
Attest, EIJENEZER HUNT, J vs., Clerk,
CONVENTION OF PLYMOUTH COUNTY.
At a meeting of tbe delegates of evei-j' town in the county of Plymouth,
in the province of Massachusetts IJay, held at Plimpton, in said county, on
Monday, the 26th day of September, 1774, and then by adjournment, at the
county court house in Plymouth, on Tuesday, tbe 27th day of September,
177-J, present :
Plymouth — Hon. James Warren, Esq., ]Mr. John Torrey, Capt. Theophilus
Cotton, William Watson, Esq., Mr. Thomas Lothrop.
Sdluate — Nathan Cusbing, Esq., John Cushing, Jun., Esq., Capt Israel
Vinal, Jun., Mr. Barnebas Little, Mr. William Turner, Capt. Joseph Tolman.
JVarcham — Mr. Ebenezer Briggs, 3Ir. Barnabas Bates.
Marshfeld — Capt. Antbony Tliomas, Capt. William Thomas.
Jlhinglon — Doct. David Jones, Capt. ^^'oodbridge Brown, Mr. William
Reed, Jun.
Bridgeivatcr — Capt. Ed\vard Mitchell, Mr. Nathaniel Reynolds, Mr. Nathan
Mitchell, Mr. Thomas Hooper.
Kingston — John Thomas, Estj., Cajjt. John Gray, Mr. William Drew.
Hanover — Capt. Josejjh Cushing, 3Ir. Joseph Ramsdcll, jMr. Joshua Sim-
mons, Cai)t. Robert Eells, Doct. Lemuel Cushing.
Pemhrukc — Capt. John Turner, Doct. Jeremiah Hall, Mr. Seth Briggs,
Capt. Edward Thomas, Capt. Elijah Cushing.
Duxborough — Capt. Wade Wadsworth, IMr. George Partridge, 3Ir. Peleg
Wadsworth.
Halifax — Mr. Barnabas Thompson, Moses Inglis, Mr. Ebenezer Thomas.
Middleborough — Capt. Ebenezer Sprout, Mr. John 3Iiller, ]Mr. Ebenezer
Wood, JMr. Benjamin Tucker, Mr. Nathaniel Foster.
Rochester — Capt. Ebenezer White, Mr. Nathaniel Hammond, Mr. Nathan
Nye.
622 PLYMOUTH CONVENTION.
Plimpton — Mr. William Ripley, Mr Samuel Lucas, Mr. Seth Gushing.
Voted, That the Hon. James Warren, Esq., be chairman.
A committee of nine, viz. : James Warren, Esq., William Gushing, Esq ,
Capt. Joseph Gushing, Jolm Thomas, Esq., Doct. Jones, Mr. John Torrey,
Mr. Thomas Lothrop, Mr. George Partridge, and Doct. Jeremiah Hall, were
chosen to bring in, at the adjournment, a report to this body, and the follow-
ing being several times read, and put paragraph by paragraph, was unani-
mously voted, viz. :
Whereas, the British achninistration, instead of cultivating that harmony
and affection, which have so long subsisted, to the great and mutual advan-
tage of both Britain and the colonies, have, for a series of years, without
provocation, witliout justice, or good policy, in breach of faith, the laws of
gratitude, the natural connections and commercial interests of both coun-
tries, been attacking with persevering and unrelenting injustice, the rights of
the colonists ; and have added, from one time to another, iBSults to oppres-
sions, till both have become, more especially in this colony, intolerable, and
every person who has the feelings of a man, and any sense of the rights of
mankind, and the value of our happy constitution, finds it now necessary, to
exert himself to the utmost of his power, to preserve them : we, who are
returned from the several towns in the county of Plymouth, and now met
on the ground first trod by our venerable ancestors, and at the place Provi-
dence directed them to, as an asylum from the persecuting rage and oppres-
sion of their cotemporaries in Britain ; feeling the same spirit, and actuated
in defence of our rights, by the same principles which animated them in ac-
quiring and transmitting them to us and succeeding posterity, in a manner
which will ever distinguish the heroism and virtue of their characters, do
resolve :
1. That the inhabitants of the American colonies are entitled to all the
natural rights of mankind, and are, by right, subject to the control of no
power on earth, but by their own consent.
2. That the inhabitants of this province have no otlier political con-
nection witii, or dependence on Britain, than what was, originally, by our
ancestors, for themselves and posterity, stipulated witli the king, and in the
form of a grant from him expressed in the charter.
3. That the interposition of any other power on earth in our affairs, and
more especially, in attempts to tax or even legislate for us, and that of the
king himself, in other manner than is expressed and jjrovided for in the
original compact, is an infraction of our natural and constitutional rights.
4. That the people of this province have, at all times, been loyal and duti-
ful subjects to the king of Great Britain, have observed all the conditions of
their original compact, borne great affection to his other subjects in all parts
of his dominions, and are ready, at all times, to render him that allegiance
which hi.s protection of our rights entitles him to, and to sacrifice our lives
and fortunes in defence of his person and constitutional government.
5. That the parliament of Great Britain has not only assumed, but exer-
PLYMOUTH COxNVENTlON. tyi'.i
ciscd ^vitll uncxiuiipled severity, a power over these colonies, to leffislute for,
uiul tux tlicm without their own consent, and by several acts passed in the
late scstiioii of |)arliainent, for blocking' up tjic jiort of Uoston, the better r< g-
ulating the government of tiie province of the Massiicluisetts Jiay, the securing
the most Hagitious violators of the laws of the province from a legal trial,
and the establishing the ronian catholic religion in that extensive country,
called Canada, has shewn their determination to deprive us of botli our civil
and religious rights.
G. That it is a duty every man and body of men owes to posterity, as well
as to God and our country, to oppose with all their power, the execution of
said acts, and that we strongly recommend it to the inhabitants of the prov-
ince, never to submit to them in any instmice wliatcver.
7. That the j)rovision made in one of said acts for the ai)pointment of a
council and of civil oflicers in this province and the tenure of their several
offices, together with the manner of returning jurors, at once destroys every
idea of free legislation, and an impartial administration of justice, and breaks
down that inestimable barrier of liberty, and security of life and j)roperty, a
trial by our peers, by rendering the whole of them a set of mhiisterial tools
and hirelings.
8. That those persons who have accepted seats at the council board, by
mandamus from the king, in conformity to a late act of the British parlia-
ment, have violated the fuiulamciital rights of the society they belonged to ;
have traitorously attempted to destroy the constitution of their country,
which they were bound by the laws of God and man to defend ; and have,
by theii* persevering obstuiacy, against the entreaties of their fellow coun-
trymen, exposed themselves to their just resentment and indignation.
9. That the judges, justices, sheriffs, and other civil officers in the prov-
ince, who are appointed to their several offices agreeably to the charter and
laws of the same, and refuse to act in conformity to the acts of parliament,
or to assist the administration iu the execution of them, are the only proper
persons who are entitled to the obedience of the people ; and that we will
aid and support them in the execution of their offices, in the manner usual
before the attempt to alter the constitution of the i)rovince ; and will in-
demnify their persons and property ; and that no legal authority can remove
them from tbeir respective offices, except that which is constituted pm-suant
to the charter, and the laws of this jnovince.
10. That all officers and private persons, who shall presume to conform to
or by any means aid and assist the execution of the late acts of parliament,
do, by such conduct, forfeit that jH-otection and Irieudship good men in socie-
ty are entitled to, and are and ought to be considered and treated as our in-
veterate enemies, as men lost to every sense of virtue, and the obligations
due to God and man.
1 1. That every peojjle have a right to meet together when they please, to
consult upon their grievances, and the proper methods to be taken for their
i-emoval ; and that any act which prohibits such meetings, strikes at the foun-
dation of freedom, and will reduce to slaver} and misery such as submit to it.
624 PLYMOUTH CONVENTIOiN.
12. That the present exigencies of our public affairs, render it absolutely
necessary that there be a i)rovincial congress ; and we do recommend it to
the several towns in this county, to instruct their representatives to form
theinselves into such a congress, agreeably to the seventh resolve of the
delegates for the county of Essex, for the purj)oses there mentioned.
13. That our enemies may be disappointed, and we be the better enabled
to make that last appeal, which the law of God and nature will justify, we
recommend it to the peoi)le of this county, to apply themselves with all dil-
igence, and in the most effectual manner, to learn military discipline, and
to equip themselves immediately with arms and ammunhion according to
law.
14. That whereas, the present circumstances of the province are such,
that if the public moneys now raised should be paid into the public treasu-
ries, they may be misapplied, perhaps to purjjoses detrimental to the uiter-
est of the peo])le: we therefore recommend to the collectors of taxes, sher-
iffs, and other officers in this county, to retain the same in their hands, and
not to make any payment thereof to the ]>rovince treasurer, until the civil
government of the province is placed upon a constitutional foundation, or
until it shall otherwise be ordered by the proposed i)rovincial congress ;
and that they be indemnified in their persons and property for so doing.
15. That the fortification erected on Boston neck, the seizing the powder
in the magazine at Charlestown, the prohibiting the keeper of the magazine
at Boston to deliver the powder, which is private property, and many other
instances of the conduct of the army and commander in chief, are justly
alarming, and give us the strongest reasons to apprehend hostile inten-
tions against the town of Boston in particular, and the province in gen-
eral.
It). That if any persons who have distinguished themselves by virtuously
contending for the violated rights and liberties of this country, should 1)6
seized, in order to be transported to England, or in any way subjected to
the tyrannical power of administration now prevailing, we do recommend,
that the good ])eople of this county immediately make reprisals, by seiz-
ing and keeping in safe custody, every servant of the present tyrannical
government, and all such as are known to have favored and abetted their
measures, and detain tliem till our fi lends are restored safe and \minjured
to tlieir respective families.
J 7. That it is highly proper and necessary for the towns to continue to
meet and transact their affairs as usual, and we recommend to the select-
men of the several towns in this county, to issue their warrants for calling
town meetings, agreeably to the laws of the province and former usages,
and to the constables to warn the same, whenever their circumstances re-
quire it, and to the people in the county to support each other in the exer-
cise of a privilege and a right, by long experience found so beneficial to
their interest and hapjjiness.
18. That it is justifiable and proper for the people, at such a time as is
this, to prevent any courts sitting and proceeding to business, or any officers
l»LYMOirni CONVENTION. ii-2rj
of any coiiit cxcciitiii;; tlicir (illic<', wlio shall refuse, when n-queslcfl, to make
uikI si},'ii a full aiul aiiipio duflaration, exi»iessinj^ their abliorreiice of the
late innovations attempted in onr constitution, and that they do not now,
nor will at any time hereaib-r, hold their commissions in any other way
than what is prescribed by the charter and well known constitution of this
province, and that they will not, in any way, countenance, aid, or supj)ort
the execution of the late acts of parliament.
19. That the circumstances of the country retiuire, and make it necessa-
ry, that we should, until our rights are fully restored, withhold all commer-
cial intercourse with Great IJritain and Ireland, and refrain from the con-
sumjjtion of British mamifactures and merchandize, especially East India
teas, and other goods, subject to such additions, alterations, and exceptions
only, as the grand Congress of the colonies may agree to.
yO. We recommend to the several towns in this county, to make provis-
ion for, and to order the payment of their several representatives out of
their tow n treasin-ies, in order to do justice to them, and at the same time
defeat one of the machinations of our enemies.
21. That those justices of the courts of general sessions of the peace and
common pleas for this county, who, at the last term, in the name of the
whole, addressed his excellency governor Gage, have, therein, wantonly,
without reason, and without provocation, aspersed the clergy, the commit-
tees of correspondence, and other good people of this county, and thereby
shown that they have no tender feelings for the distresses of their country,
and can rejoice at their calamities.
22. That this county should entertain a high sense of gratitude for the
benevolent alacrity and readiness, shown by our brethren in the other colo-
nies, to aid and support this province under our present distresses, and to
come to our relief, whenever the blood-thirsty malice of our enemies shall
make it necessary.
23. That Edward Winslow, Jr. one of the two clerks of the court of general
sessions of the peace and court of common i)leas for this county, has, by
refusing this body a copy of an address made at the last term in this coun-
ty to Thomas Hutchinson, Esq., betrayed the trust reposed in him, and by
refusing his attendance when requested, treated the body of this county
with insult and contempt, and by that means rendered hiniself unworthy to
serve the county in said oflicc.
24. Tliat it be earnestly recommended to the inhabitants of this county,
that they carefully avoid all riots, routs, tumults, and disturbances, under
our present distressed cii-cumstances, and that they maintain all that peace
and good order that the nature of our present situation will admit.
THOM.VS LOTHROP, Clerk.
19
620 BRISTOL CONVENTION.
CONVENTION OF BRISTOL COUNTY.
At a meeting of the gentlemen, delegates from the following towns in
the county of Bristol, viz. : Taunton, Dartmouth, Rehoboth, Freetown,
Dighton, Swansey, Norton, Mansfield, Raynham, Berkeley and Easton, held
at the court house, in Taunton, on the 28th and 29th days of September,
1774, to consult upon pro])er measures to be taken at the present alarming
crisis of our public affairs :
Zejihaniah Leonard, Esq , was chosen chairman.
After having read tlie act of parliament for regulating the government of
this province, and the resolves of the counties of Sufiblk, Middlesex, &c.,
the following resolutions were unanimously adopted :
Whereas, our ancestors, of blessed memoiy, from a i)rudent care for
themselves, and a tender concern for their descendants, did, through a series
of unparalleled dangers and distresses, purchase a valuable inheritance in
this \^■estern world, and carefully transmitted the same to us, their poster-
ity ; and whereas, for many years past, we have quietly enjoyed certain
rights and privileges, stipulated by charter, and rei)eatedly confirmed by
royal engagements, which rights and privileges are now unjustly invaded
by the pretended authority of a British parliament, under pretext that it is
inexpedient for us any longer to enjoy them ; and as the same persons who
found out this inexpediency, will, no doubt, in time, discover that it is inexjie-
dierit for us to enjoy any rights, and even any property at all ; we cannot, in
justice to ourselves and posterity, and in gratitude to our revered ancestors,
tamely stand by, and sutler every thing that is valuable and dear to be wrest-
ed from us ; but are resolutely determined, at the risk of our fortunes and
lives, to defend our natural and compacted rights, and to oppose, to our ut-
most, all illegal and unconstitutional measures, which have been, or may be
hereafter, adojjted by a British parliament or a British ministry. And though
we dej)recate the evils which are naturally consequent upon a breach of that
mutual afiection and confidence which has subsisted betwixt Great Britain
and her colonies, yet we think it better to suffer those evils, than voluntari-
ly submit to perpetual slavery. We are sensible that the important crisis
before us demands the exercise of much wisdom, i)rudence, and fortitude,
and we sincerely hope, that all our deliberations and actions will be guided
by the i)rincij)les of sound reason, and a hearty desire to promote the true
interest of the British empire. Accordingly, we resolve in the following
manner, viz. :
Resolved, That we freely recognize George tlie third, king of Great Bri-
tain, &c., as our rightful sovereign, and as allegiance and protection arc re-
ciprocal, we are determined faithfully to j ield the former as long as we are
allowed the enjoyment of the latter.
Res dved. That the late acts of the British jjarliament, relating to the con-
tinent in general, and this province in particular, arc contrary to reason and
NVORCESTKIl C0NVI:N'IM()N &i7
tin- siiirit of iIk' I'.iiirlisli coii.stildtioii, and, if coiii|)lii(| wiili, will rediirc lis
to lli(' most abject state of servitude
Uesolvetl, That all civil oHiceis in tliis province, eoiisidi red as iioldiiij;
tlioir respective ollices by tiio teiuiro spccilie.d in a lato act of the IJrilisli
j)ailiariieiit, deserve iieitlier obedience nor respect; but we will sup|)ort all
civil authority that is airreeable to the charter of the |)rovince "granted by
king William and (picen Mary.
Resolved, That it is our opinion, that the several towns of this county
should reiiulate themselves in all their public proceedings, agreeably to the
laws of this province.
Jltsolved, That we will use our utmost endeavors to discountenance and
suppress all mobs, riots, and breaches of the peace, and will atibrd all the
protection in our power to the persons and properties of our loyal fellow
subjects.
liesolved, That, in ail things, we will regulate ourselves by tiie oi)inion
and advice of the Continental Congress, now sitting at Philadelphia; and
as we place great confidence in the abilities of the gentlemen, members of
that congress, we will cheerfully subscribe to their determinations.
Resolved, Tiiat our brethren of the town of Boston, who are now suffer-
ing under the cruel hand of power in the common cause of America, are
justly entitled to all that support and relief which we can give, and are
now ready to afford them.
Resolved, That whereas, our brethren of the county of Suffolk have, by
their spirited and noble resolutions, fully made known our sentiments, we
therefore think it unnecessary for us to be more jiarticulur, as we most
ch(!erfully adoj)! their measures and resolutions.
Voted, That tlie above proceedings be inserted in the public papers.
Voted, That the conmiittce for the town of Taunton, be empowered to
call a meeting of this body, whenever they think it necessary.
Voted, Thui the thanks of this body be given to the chairman, (or his
faithful services.
Voted, That this assembly be adjourned, and it was accordingly ad-
journed.
DAVID COIJI?, ClerL
CONVENTION OF WORCESTER COUNTY.
Journal of a convention of the committees of correspondence and del-
egates, of the several towns in the county of Worcester.
Tuesday, August 9, 1774.
At a meeting of the committees of correspondence for the county of
Worcester, in county Congress assembled, on the 9th day of August, A. D.
1774, at the house of Mrs. Mary Sterncs, in Worcester, there were present:
028 WORCESTER CONVENTION.
Worcester — William Young, Esq., Mr. Joshua Bigelow, Capt. Timothy
Bigelow, Lieut. John Smith.
Lancaster — Doct. William Dunsmore, Deacon David Wilder, Mr. Aaron
Sawyer, Capt. Samuel Ward, Capt. Asa Whitcomb, Capt. Hezekiah Gates,
Mr. John Prescott, Mr. Ephraim Sawyer.
Mendon — Capt. Nathan Tyler, Deacon Edward Rawson, Mr. James Sum-
ner, Elder Nathaniel Nelson, Mr. Benoni Benson.
Rutland District — Mr. Asa Hapgood, Lieut. Nathan Sparhawk, Deacon
John Mason, Lieut. Andrew Parker.
Brookfield — Jedediah Foster, Esq., Capt. Jeduthan Baldwin, Capt. Phine-
lias Upham.
Oxford — Capt. Ebenezer Learned, Doct. Alexander Campbell.
Charlton — Mr. Caleb Curtis, Capt. Jonathan Tucker.
Sutton — Mr. Amos Singletary, Capt. Henry King, Rev. Ebenezer Chap-
lin.
Leicester, Spencer and Paxton — Col. Thomas Denny, Capt. William Ilen-
shaw, Capt. Josei)h Ilenshaw, Rev. Benjamin Conklin.
Westborough — Capt. Stephen Maynard.
Shrewsbury — Hon. Artemas Ward, Mr. Phinehas Heywood.
Lunenburg — Doct. John Taylor.
Hai-vard — Rev. Joseph Wheeler.
Bolton — Capt. Samuel Baker, Mr. Jonathan Hoi man.
Petersham — Capt Ephraim Doolittle, Col. Jonathan Grout.
Southborough — Capt. Jonathan Wood.
Hardwick — Capt. Paul Mandell, Mr. Stephen Rice, Lieut. Jonathan War-
ner, Deacon John Bradish.
Holden— Mr. Jolm Cliild.
Douglas — Mr. Samuel Jennison.
Princeton — Mr Moses Gill.
A committee was appointed to sort and count the votes given in, for a
chairman or ])resident, and clerk, who reported that William Young, Esq.,
of Worcester, was elected chairman, and William Henshaw, Esq., of Lei-
cester, clerk.
The Rev. Benjamin Conklin, being invited, o])ened the meeting with very
earnest and solemn prayer.
Voted, To choose a committee of ten, to draw up some proper resolves to
Jay before tlie convention for their consideration.
Voted, That Mr. Timothy Bigelow, Capt. Joseph Henshaw, Ca]>t. Ephraim
Doolittle, Capt. Samuel Ward, Mr. John Smith, Mr. Luke Drury, Mr. Joshua
Bigelow, Deacon Edward Rawson, Capt. Paul Mandell, Lieut. Jonathan
Holman, !)e the committee.
The com iiittcc retired, and again returned, after some time, and reported
that they had drafted a number of resolves, which were read.
After debate thereon, it was voted to lay the resolves upon the table for
further consideration.
WORCESTER CONVENTION. (Wy
f'oted, To adjoiiiM lo to-iiiurrow moiiiiiig, jil 7 o'clitcU, to iiicct iil llie
sainc |)lacf.
Wkd.nesday, AuutsT 10, 1774.
Met according to adjournment. In tlu; absence oC the jnesident, JJeacon
Baker was clioscn ciiairnian pro tempore.
Voted, Tliat tlie conunittee chosen ycstenlay, l)e a coinmittec to write a
letter to tiie gentlemen cliosen by this provinet? to attend the Continental
Congress, to inlbrm tiiein of the sense of the county respecting our public
aft'aiis.
A letter being reported, Avas considered and accepted.
I'oted, That the connnittee cliosen yesterday, be a committee to send a
letter to all of the towns and districts in this county, who have not cliosen
conunittees ol' correspondence, desiring them to choose such committees,
or send delegates to represent them at the adjournment of this convention.
Tlie committee chosen to write to the several towns, alter some time, re-
ported, that they were ready to read a letter ; which was done, and the
same was accepted, and is as follow;-: :
Worcester, August 9, 1774.
Friends and Brethren : — The committees of correspondence from a
majority of towns in this county, have now convened at Worcester, in order
to consult and determine upon the most regular steps to be taken and re-
commended to the several towns in this county, at this truly critical and
alarming crisis, when it no longer remains a doubt, that the acts, annihila-
ting our once free constitution, are actually come authenticated, attended
with three more transports and a ship of war, and the council, appointed by
his majesty, are about taking the oaths required for that office. In the first
place, we beg leave to observe, that a considerable number of respectable
towns in this county have not yet chosen committees, and by that means,
may not have received the letters notifying this convention ; therefore, we
earnestly recommend, as brethren and fellow sufferers, when all that is valu-
able in this life is at stake, that you choose committees of correspondence,
or such other delegates as you may think proper, to meet this convention at
their adjournment, w hen the united wisdom and aid of the whole are want-
ing, to ojjpose the torrent of tyranny rushing upon us. In order to avoid
a second disai)pointnient, by having our letters fall into unfriendly hands,
and you thereby be deprived of a proper notification, we shall be careful to
have them transmitted by such of our members as live nearest those to\\ us
which have not sent their committees.
The convention stands adjourned to the last Tuesday of August instant,
at the house of Mrs. Mary Sternes, innholder, at Worcester, at 10 o'clock,
before noon,
I?y order of the committees of correspondence in convention,
TDIOTHY BIGELOW.
Tlie consideration of the resolves reported yesterday, was resumed : the
G30 WORCESTER CONVENTION.
same were severally read, considered, debated, and each accepted without
one dissentient vote : and it was Ordered, that the same be signed by the
chairman and clerk, and printed, and circulated in handbills. They are as
follow :
1. Resolved, That we bear all true allegiance to his majesty king George
the third, and that we will, to the utmost of our power, defend his person,
crown, and dignity, but at the same time, we disclaim any jurisdiction in the
commons of Great liritain over his majesty's subjects in America.
2. Resolved, That the cluuler of this jjrovince is the basis of our allegi-
ance to his majesty, wherein, on his part, the royal faith is plighted, to pro-
tect and defend us, his American subjects, in the free and full enjoyment of
each and every right and liberty enjoyed by his subjects in Great Britain ;
his American subjects likewise bear him true allegiance.
3. Resolved, Tliat we have, within ourselves, the exclusive right of origi-
nating each and every law respecting ourselves, and ought to be on an
equal footing with his majesty's subjects in Great Britain.
4. Resolved, That an attempt to vacate said charter, by either party, with-
out the consent of the other, has a tendency to dissolve the union between
Great Britain and this ijrovince, to destroy the allegiance we owe to the
king, and to set aside the sacred obligations he is under to his subjects here.
5. Resolved, That the right lately assumed, by the parliament of Great
Britain, over this province, wherein they claim a disposal of our lives and
properties, and to alter and disannul our charter without our consent, is a
great and high-handed claim of arbitrary power.
6. Resolved, That as jjarliament have not only adopted the aforementioned
principle, but have actually put it into practice, by taxing the Americans,
and most cruelly blocking up the harbor of Boston, in order to force this
province to submission to such power, and have farther proceeded to pass
several acts to change our free constitution in such manner, which, if effect-
ed, will render our lives and properties wholly insecure : Therefore,
7. Resolved, That it is the indisputable duty of every American, and more
especially in this province, to imite in every virtuous opposition that can be
devised, in order to save ourselves and posterity from inevitable ruin. And,
in the first place, we greatly approve of the agreement entered and entering
into through this and the neighboring provinces, ior the non-consumption
of British goods. This, we apprehend, will have a tendency to convince
our brethx-en in Britain, that more is to be gauied in the way of justice,
from our friendship and affection, than by extortion and arbitrary jiower.
We apprehend that the balance of our trade vvitli Britain has been greatly
in their favor; that we can do much better without it than they can ; and
that the increase of such trade heretofore, was greatly occasioned by the
regard and affection borne by the Americans to their brethren in Britain.
Such an agreement, if strictly adhered to, will greatly prevent extravagance,
save our money, encourage our own manufactures, and reform our manners.
8. Resolved, That those justices of the court of general sessions, and com-
mon pleas, for this county, who, in a late address to his excellency Cover-
VVOllCESTER CONVENTION. 631
nor (lage, aspersed the good ])t'(i|tl«' ol" this county, Imvo ilicreby discovered
that tliey were destitute of that tender regard wliicli we inigiit justly ex-
pect in our present distressed situation.
looted. That we most earnestly recommend it to the several towns in this
coimty, (and if it siioidd not he thought t<io arrogant,) to every town in tlie
])rovince, to meet and adopt some wise, ]inident, and spiriti;d measures, in
order to ])revent the execution of those most alarming acts of parliament,
respecting our constitution.
Voted, That the meeting be adjourned to the last Tuesday of August in-
stant, to meet at the house of Mrs. i\Iary Sternes, inidiolder, in Worcester,
at 10 o'clock of the forenoon, and it was adjourned.
Tuesday, August 30, 1774.
At a meeting of the committees of correspondence from each and every
town and district within the county of Worcester, convened in Congress, at
Worcester, on Tuesday, tJie 30tli day of August, A. D. 1774, there were
I)resent one liundred and thirty members, together with a number of dele-
gates and gentlemen from several towns.
William Young, Esq. was jjresident.
Voted, That the Rev. Mr. Ciiaplaiu be desired to attend this meeting, and
to pray : who came in, and the meeting was opened with prayers.
Tooted, By reason of the straitness of the jjlace, and the many attending,
to adjoiun to the county court house.
Tlie Congress met in the county court liouse, according to adjournment ;
debated on many things, and adjourned to 3 o'clock, P. M.
Afternoon.
Met according to adjournment, at the court iiouse.
Voted, To choose a committee of nine persons, to take into consideration
the state of public affairs, and prepare resolves to lay before the coha ention.
Voted, That Capt. Joseph Henshaw, Mr. Phinelias Ileywood, Capt. Eph-
raim Doolitile, Capt. Henry King, Mr. Timothy Bigelow, Mr. Samuel Jen-
nison, Capt. Samuel Ward, Mr. Luke Drury, and Capt. Joseph Gilbert, be a
committee for the puri»use albresaid.
Voted, That the Rev. Mr. Chaplain be desired to attend the Congress to-
morrow.
Voted,'riidt this meeting be adjourned till to-morrow, at 7 o'clock, A. 31. to
this place.
The meeting was closed with prayer.
Wkd.nesday, August 31, 1774.
The Congress met according to adjoiimnuuit.
Voted, That the Uev. Mr. Chaplain open the meeting with jirayer ; which
was done.
Voted, That every person who speaks in this meeting shall rise up, and,
after he is done speaking, shall sit down, and not spealv more than twice on
the same subject, without obtaining leave, and shall not speak irrelevantly.
632 WORCESTER CONVENTION.
The committee appointed yesterday, returned, and informed that they
were ready to report resohitious.
The resolves prepared bj' the committee were read.
Voted, To adjourn to 2 o'clock, P. 31.
Afternoon.
Met according to adjournment.
Voted, To accept of the introduction of the resolves brought in by the
committee, and the same were amended.
Voted, The first resolve in the affirmative :
Voted, The second resolve in the affirmative :
Voted, The third resolve in the afinmative :
Voted, The fourth resolve in the afiirmative :
Voted, The filth resolve in tiie afiirmative :
Voted, The sixth resolve in the afiirmative :
Voted, The seventh resolve in the affirmative :
Voted, The eighth resolve in the affirmative :
Voted, That the whole of the resolves be accepted, which are as follow :
Whereas, the charter of this province, as well as laws enacted by virtue
of the same and confirmed by royal assent, have been, by the parliament of
Great Britain, without the least color of right or justice, declared in part
null and void ; and in conformity to an act of said j)arliament, persons are
appointed to fill certain oflices of government, in ways and under influen-
ces, wholly unknown before in this province, incompatible with its charter,
and forming a complete system of tyranny : and whereas, no power on
earth hath a right, without the consent of this province, to alter the minu-
test title of its charter, or abrogate any act whatsoever, made in pursuance
of it, and confirmed by roy^l assent, or to constitute officers of government
in ways not directed by charter, and as we are assured that some officers of
the executive courts in this county, have officially conducted in compliance
with and in conformity to the late acts of parliament altering our free con-
stitution ; and as the sittings of such courts may have a tendency to aflfect
the good peo])le of this county, in such manner as may insensibly lead them
to subnut to the chains of slavery forged by our enemies ; therefore,
1. Resolved, That it is the indispensable duty of the inhabitants of this
county, by the best ways and means, to prevent the sitting of the respective
courts under such i-egulations as are set forth in a late act of parliament, en-
titled, an act for regulating the civil government of the Massachusetts
Bay.
2. Resolved, That in order to prevent the execution of the late act of par-
liament, respecting the courts, that it be recommended to the inhabitants of
this county, to attend, in person, the next inferior court of common pleas
and general sessions, to be holden at Worcester, in and for said county, on
the sixth day of September next.
3. Resolved, That it be recommended to the several towns, that they
choose proj)cr and suitable officers; and a sufiicient number, to regulate the
WORCESTER CONVEN'I'ION (i:j:5
movements of each town, nnd prevent nny disorder wliicli niifrht otherwise
linppen ; iind thut it he enjoined on the inliahitaiits ofcacii ris|i«'elivc town,
that tht\ adiiore strictly to tiic onh-rs anil <lireclions orsiich ollicerrf.
4. And whereas, the courts of justice will necessarily he itnjieded hy the
opposition to tiio said acts of ])arlianient, therefore. Resolved, that it be rc-
conuncnded to the inhabitants of this province in general, and to those of
tliis county in jjarticnlar, that they dejjute lit persons to represent them in
one general provincial convention, to be convened at Concord, on the sec-
ond Tuesday of October next, to devise projjcr ways and means to resume
our original mode of government, wiiereby tiie most dignified servants were,
as they ever ought to be, de|)endant on the ])eoplc for their existence as
such ; or some other which may appear to them best calculated to regain
and secure our violated rights. The justice of our complaints and the modes
of redress, we submit to tiie determination of our sister colonies, being, in
our opinion, the only just tribunal we can appeal to on earth,
5. RtsolvriL Tiiat it be recommended, tiiat such innholders and retailers,
who shall be approbated by the selectmen in their respective towns, contin-
ue and exercise their respective functions ; provided, they strictly adliere to
the law of this province respecting innholders and retailers.
G. Resolvefl, That it be recommended to tlie several towms, tliat they in-
demnify then- constables for neglecting to return lists of persons qualified to
serve as jurors.
7. Resolved, That as the ordinary course of justice must be stayed, in con-
sequence of tlie late arbitrary and oppressive acts of the Britisli parliament,
we would earnestly recommend to every inliabitant of this county, to pay
his just debts as soon as may be possible, without any dis])utes or litiga-
tion.
8. Resolved, That as the dark and gloomy aspect of our public affairs has
thrown this province into great convulsions, and the minds of the ])eople
are greatly agitated with the near view of impending ruin ; we earnestly re-
commend to every one, and we engage ourselves, to use the utmost influ-
ence in suppressing all riotous and disorderly proceedings in our respective
towns.
It was Moved, That whereas, it is generally expected, that the governor
will send one or more regiments to enforce the execution of the acts of par-
liament, on the Gth of Septetnber, tliat it be recommended to Uie inhabi-
tants of this county, if there is intelligence, that troops are on their march to
Worcester, to attend, properly armed, in order to repel any hostde force
which may be employed lor that purpose.!
The motion, after some debate being w ithdiawn ;
(1) That the expectation of the visit of the royal troops was not without foundation, will aiipear
by the following extracts of the official despatch of General Gage to the Eirl of Dartmouth, dited,
Salem, August 27, 1T74.
" Since the unwarrantable impeachment of the chief justice [Oliver,] I understand he has never
80
634 WORCESTER CONVENTION.
Voted, Tliat if there is an invasion, or danger of an invasion, in any town
in this county, then such town as is invaded, or being in danger thereof,
shall, by tlieir coiuuiitlees of correspondence, or some other proper persons,
send letters, by express posts, immediately, to the committees of the adjoin-
ing towns, who shall send to other committees in the towns adjoining them,
that they all come properly armed and accoutred to protect and defend the
place invaded.
Voted, That it be recommended to the towns in this county, to pay no re-
gard to the late act of parliament, respecting the calling town meetings, but,
to proceed in their usual manner ; and also, that they pay no submission to
any acts altering our free constitution.
Voted, That it be recommended to each town of the county, to retain in
their own hands, what moneys may be due from them severally to the prov-
ince treasury, till jjublic tranquillity be restored, and more confidence can
be reposed in tlie first magistrate and his council.
Voted, To postpone the consideration of the petition of Doct. William
Paine, respecting the establishment of a hospital for the small pox, to the
adjournment of this meeting.
Voted, That each member will purchase at least two pounds of powder in
addition to any he may have on hand, and will use all his exertions to sup-
ply his neighbors fully.
Voted, That the members and delegates endeavor to asceilain what num-
ber of guns are deficient to arm the people in case of invasion.
tiikeri his seat upon the ?jench, but he has promised me to attend the snperior court at Boston, to-
wards the end of the month, and I hope also, he will preside in said court to be held at Worcester,
in September, notwithstanding the threats thrown out against him. I have engaged to meet him at
Boston, to prevent violence, which, from the present system, I dont expect to meet with tliere ; I
believe, that I must attend him also at Worcester, where I am to expect it."
" By the plan lately adopted, forcible opposition and violence is to be transferred from the town
of Boston to the country."
" In Worcester, they keep no terms ; openly threatening resistance by arms ; have been pur-
chasing arms ; preparing them ; casting balls ; and providing powder ; and threaten to attack any
troops who dare to oppose them. Mr. fiuggles, of the new council, is afraid to take his seat as
judge of the inferior court, which sits at Worcester, on the 6lh of next month ; and, I appreliend,
that I sliall soon be obliged to march a body of troops into that township, and perhaps into others,
as occasions happen, to preserve the peace."
In reference to the mandamus councillors, General Gage writes, " your lordship judged right, that
art would he practised on this occasion, to intimidate and prejudice ; even force was attempted on
Mr. Ruggles, by a number of people collected on the road, near Worcester, with intent to stop him,
but he made hia way through them."
On the second of September following, Gov. Gage writes to the Earl of Dartmouth, as follows ;
" I came here to attend the superior court, and with the intention to send a body of troops to Wor-
cester, to protect the court there ; and if wanted, to send parties to tlie houses of the councillors who
dwell in that counly ; but finding, from undoubted authority, that the flames of sedition had spread
universally throughout the country, beyond conception ; the councillors already driven away ; and
that no court would proceed on business ; I waited the event of the sitting of the superior court here,
on the 30th ultimo j the judges met, hut could get neither grand nor petit jury."
WORCESTER CONVENTION. <;:{.>
Voted, That the resolves accepted in this ronvciition, and the vole aUmt
town niei-tiiiirs, ho tii^'iicd Ii}' l\u'. ciiairinan and cii ri<, niul juintcd.
f'oted, That the licv. Mr. Chaiduiu be icc|iicstt'd to close tlie inccling wit!)
prayer.
Voted, To adjourn this meeting to the first Tiiestlay of Septcmlwjr next,
then to meet at the house ol" J\lr. Tijiiothy Bi;;eIo\v, in Worcester, at 10
o'clock, A. JVl.
Tuesday, Sept. G, 1774.
The committees of correspondence and delejjates of the several towns,
met in convention, at tiic house of Mr. Timothy liijrelow, according to ad-
journment.
The Rev. Mr. Chaplain opened the meeting with prayer.
Voted, As the opinion of this convention, that the court should not sit on
any terms.
Voted, That the several committees inform the people of their respective
towns, of this vote of the convention, and, that they choose one man from
each company, as a committee to wait on the judges to inform them of the
resolution to stop the courts sitting, if the people concur therein.
Voted, That the body of the people in this county now in town, assemble
on the common.^
Voted, To choose a committee of three persons to inquire of the commit-
tees of the towns, how long it will be before they make the determination of
the body of the people respecting the courts, known to the judges, and to
inform tlie convention thereof.
Voted, To adjourn to the green beyond Mr. Salisbury's, where the conven-
tion proceeded.
Voted, That a committee of three, viz.: Capt Mandell, Deacon Raw son,
and Mr. Samuel Jennison, be a committee to inform the grand jurors of the
determination of tlie county as to tlie courts being held.
Voted, to adjourn to the com't house at two o'clock, P. M.
Afternoon.
Met according to adjournment, and again adjourned to the green, to attend
the body of the people.
Voted, To choose a committee of three persons to proceed to wait on the
committees of the towns, to inquire the occasion of the delay of the judges
in making their appearance before the body of the people.
Voted, Tliat three persons be chosen a committee, to acquaint John Chand-
ler, Esq., and the other protesters, that they must follow after the judges
(1) On the invitation of the convention, tlio people of the county had assembled to tho number
of about six tliousand. Tlie companies of the several towns were under officers of their own elec-
tion, and marched in military order. Having been formed in two lines, when the arrangements
were completed, the royalist justices, and officers, were compelled to pass through the ranks,
pausing, at intervals, to read their declarations of submission to the public will. At evening, finding
that no troops were on their way to sustain the judicial tribunals, whose constitution had been cor-
rupted by the act of parliament, the great assembly dispersed peacefully.
636 WORCESTER CONVENTION.
through the ranges of the body of the people ; that they go immediately
after the judges, and read their recantations.!
Voted, That the thanks of the convention be gi^ en to the Rev. Mr. Chap-
lain, for his attendance with them.
Voted, That it be recommended to the military officers in this county, that
they resign their commissions to the colonels of the respective regiments.
Voted, That the field officers resign their offices, and publish their resig-
nations in all the Boston newspapers.
Voted, That it be recommended to the several towns of the county, to
choose proper officers for the military of the town, and a sufficient number.
Voted, That it be recommended to the several towns and districts of this
county, that they provide themselves, immediately, vnth one or more field
pieces, mounted and fitted for use ; and also a sufficient quantity of ammu-
nition for the same ; and that the officers appohit a suitable number of men,
out of their respective companies, to manage said field pieces.
Voted, To take notice of those justices of the mferior court of common
pleas and general sessions of the peace of this county, who aspersed the
people in a late address to Gov. Gage.2
(1) Forty-tliree of the royalist inhabitants of Worcester, had made their protest against the pa-
triotic resolutions of that town. This protest having been entered on the municipal records, by the
clerk, without authority, ho was subsequently compelled, in open meeting, to obliterate the docu-
ment ; the work of the pen not being effectual in destroying its former traces, his fingers were dip-
ped in ink, and drawn over the page, which still remains in tlie town book, entirely illegible. Most
of the subscribers of the loyal paper were forced to sign recantations of their expressed opinion. To
these persons the vote in the text refers.
(2) The address of the justices of the county of Worcester, was presented June 21, 1774, and
with the answer of Governor Gage, follows :
To his Excellency Thomas Gage, Esq., Captain General and Governor in Chief in and over the prov-
ijtce ofMassachiisetts Bay, in JVew England.
May it please your Excellency : — The justices of the court of general sessions of the peace, and
justices of the inferior court of coranioa pleas, held at Worcester, on the second Tuesday of June,
1774, beg leave, at our first session, after your safe arrival, to congratulate your excellency thereon,
and also, on your appointment to the most impoitant ofiice of first magistrate in this province ; in
full confidence, from the amiable character your excellency has obtained in your other impor-
tant departments in America, you will ever delight in promoting the good of this government.
We find a peculiar difficulty in expressing the distress of our minds relating to the unhappy
circumstances of this province at this time ; and can, with sincerity, say, that we have no doubt,
from your well known character, you will do all that is in your power, to extricate us out of our
distresses, in every way consistent with the true interest of Great Britain and her colonies, which
we hold inseparable. And we do bear our testimony against all riots, routs, combinations, and un-
warrantable resolves, which, we apprehend, have been the unhappy occasion of many of our trou-
bles. And as there are now circulating through this province, certain inflammatory pieces, signed
by order of the committee of correspondence of the town of Boston ; and in this county, by order of
certain persons, calling themselves a committee of correspondence of the town of Worcester, di-
rected to the several towns in the county, stimulating the people to break off all connexion with
Great Britain, which have still a tendency to alienate the affections of the people of this province
and county from the mother country, and create discord and confusion, we do assure your excel-
lency, that we will do every thing in our power, to discountenance such proceedings, and support
the execution of the lawa, and render your e.\cellency'8 administration successful and prosperous.
To which his Excellency was pleased to return the following answer :
WORCESTER CONVENTION. <)37
Voted, That tliroo |)lm-soiis U' a coininiltoe to rcrniire tl)e committee of the
day, t(i inakt; report to tin; convention, <>(' tlieir proceedin-.'s witli tin; judges.
Foted, That the principals in the protest reading tiieir recantation, shall
be accepted for all those who signed the recantation.
J'okd, That four men be desired to attend, in addition to those who are
to walk with Col. Gardner Chandler, shoritfof the county, through tiie rang-
es of the people.
Voted, That it be recommended to the officers of eacli company of the
people assembled, to keej) good order : enjoin it on their men not to do the
least damage to any ])erson's ])roperty : but to march quietly home : and
that the convention have nothing further to hiy helbre them.
Voted, That Deacon Kuwson, Mr. Asa Whitcomb, and Doct. Crosby, be a
committee to wait on a number of justices, to give them an opportunity to
sign the declaration, which has been signed by the justices and officers of
the inferior court, and is as follows :
Worcester, Sept. 6, 1774.
Worcester, ss. The justices of the inferior court, and justices of the
court of general sessions of the peace, for the county of Worcester, to the
people of the county, now assembled at Worcester :
Gentlemen : — You having desired, and even insisted upon it, that all ju-
dicial proceedings be stayed by the justices of the coiu-t appointed this day,
by law, to be held at Worcester, within and for the county of Worcester, on
account of the unconstitutional act of the British parliament, respecting the
administration of justice in this province, which, if effected, will reduce
the inhabitants thereof to mere arbitrary power ; we do assure you, that we
will stay all such judicial proceedings of said courts, and will not endeavor
to put said act into execution.
Thomas Steel, Ezra Taylor,
Joseph Wilder, John Caldwell,
Artemas Ward, Ephraim Wilson,
Timothy Paine, Samcel Wilder,
John Chandler, Joshua Upham,
Daniel IIenshaw, John Chandler, Jr.,
Abel Willard, Daniel Oliver,
Charles Brigham, Joseph Dorr,
Robert Goddard, Ezra Houghton,
Frakcis Whipple, Nathan Tyler,
Joshua Willard, Justices.
Gentlemek: — I return you my most sincere and hearty thanks for your very aftectionate and
truly patriotic address.
Vour disavowal of the malevolent labors of a desperate faction, who, by raising groundless feara
and jealousies, and using every sort of artifice and fraud, endeavor to delude and intimidate the
people, and to create in tliem an aversion and enmity towards their brethren in Great Britain, is a
proof that you hold sentiments the most friendly to your country.
May your designs to discountenance such proceedings, meet with all the success that every real
patriot must hope and wish for ; and I will, at all times, be ready to advance so laudable a work, which
alone can give peace and happiness to the province, and restore the union so necessary to be ce-
mented with the kingdom of Gieat Britain.
G38 WORCESTER CONVENTION
We, the officers of the court, do, for ourselves, give the people the same
assurances above.
Gardner Chandler, Sheriff.
RuFUS Chandler,
John Sprague,
Nathaniel Chandler, Attorneys.
Voted, To choose a committee of nine persons, to draw up a form of a
vote for administering justice, and to protect the justices in the execution of
their offices.
Voted, That Capt. Ward, Capt. Henshaw, Deacon Rawson, Joseph Whee-
ler, Samuel Jennison, Lieut. Joseph Baker, Capt. Mandell, Timothy Bige-
low, and Lieut. Jonathan Holman, be the committee for that purpose.
Voted, That the above committee be appointed to confer with the justices
of the county, to-morrow morning.
Voted, That the consideration of the justices' address to Governor Gage,
be committed to the same committee.
Voted, To adjourn till to-morrow, at 8 o'clock, A. M.
Wednesday, September 7, 1774.
The convention met according to adjournment.
Voted, To accept of the acknowledgment made by Thomas Steel, Joseph
Wilder, Timothy Paine, John Chandler, Abel Willard, and Joshua Upham,
Esquires, for aspei'sing the people of this county in a late address to Gov-
ernor Gage.
Voted, That the justices who addressed Governor Gage at the last session
of the court, be brought before the convention, and make and sign a dccla-
I'ation, in writing, of the inadvertence of their proceedings : which is done,
and the declaration is as follows :
Whereas, the committees in convention have expressed their imeasiness
to a number of the justices of the common pleas and general sessions, now
present in the convention, who, in an address to Governor Gage, at their
session in June last, aspersed the people of this county ; those justices, in
the presence of the convention, frankly declare that they precipitately enter-
ed into the measure ; they are sorry for it ; and tiiey disclaim an intention
to injure the character of any ; and were the same measure again proposed,
they should reject it.
Thomas Steel, Ddncan Campbell,
Joseph Wilder, Jedediah Marcy,
Timothy Paine, Francis Whipple,
John Chandler, Ezra Houghton,
Abel Willard, Isaac Barnard,
Joshua Upham,
The committee on the administration of justice, and respecting the offices
WORCESTER CONVENTION. (i:{'.)
of probate and sljcrifl", made a report, uliicli was accepted, and is as fol-
lows :
Whereas, the late act of parliament resjtecting the province, is evidently
designed to prevent any civil oUiccrs holding their places by virtue of the
charter of this province, thereby interrupting the course of justice, and it is
necessary to have civil officers till further i)rovision can be made: there-
fore.
Resolved, That the justices of the |)cace for this county, who were in said
office on the last day of June past, except Timothy Ruggles, John Murray,
and James Putnam, Esquires, be hereby desired to act in said offices, as
single justices, except in judicial proceedings merely civil : also, that the
judge of probate, sheritfs, and coroners, wlio were in office on tlie last day
of June past, exercise their respective offices till the rising of the Provincial
Congress, ]iroposed to sit at Concord, on the second Tuesday of October
next, notwitlistanding any proposed supersedeas that may be sent to them,
or any of them, or any proclamation designed to prevent them from hold-
ing and exercising their said offices. And we, hereby, also recommend, to
the people of this county, that they consider and treat them as being in
their said offices, and support and defend them in the execution thereof, ac-
cording to the law^s of this province.
Voted, To put the laws in execution respecting pedlars and chapmen.
Voted, That the Norfolk exercise be adopted.
Voted, To take notice of Mr. Samuel Paine, assistant clerk, for sending
out venires.
Voted, That Mr. Samuel Jennison go to Mr. Samuel Paine forthwith, and
desire his immediate attendance before this body, to answer for his sending
venires to the constables, commanding their compliance with the late act of
parliament.
Mr. Paine appeared, and stated that he felt bound by the duty of his office
to comply with the act.
Voted, That Mr. Paine has not given satisfaction, and that he be allowed
to consider till the adjournment of this meeting.
Voted, To adjourn till the 20th of September instant, to meet at the court
house, in Worcester, at 10 o'clock, A. M.i
(1) On the day following tlic adjournment of the county convention, a meeting of the black-
smiths of the county of Worcester was held. Their resolutions, which were published in a hand-
bill, and subscribed by forty-three persons, follow :
Whereas, at a meeting of the delegates from the counties of Worcester, Middlesex, and Essex,
with the committee of correspondence of the town of Boston, in behalf of the county of Suffolk,
holden at Boston the 26th day of August, 1774, it was resolved — That all such officers or private
persons as have given sufficient proof of their enmity to the people and constitution of this coun-
try, should be held in contempt, and that those who are connected with them ought to separate
from them : laborers to shun their vineyards ; merchants, husbandmen, and others, to withhold their
commerce and supplies :
In compliance, therefore, to a resolution of so respectable a body as aforesaid, so reasonable in its
contcnu, and so necessary at this distressing day of trial, we, the Eubscribcrs, being deeply impress-
640 WORCESTER CONVENTION.
September 20, 1774.
The convention met, according to adjournment, and was opened with
prayers.
Voted, To defer the consideration of the expediency of adjourning to the
superior court, for the present.
Voted, That the sheriff send out precepts to the towns for the choice of
representatives.
Voted, That Capt. Joseph Henshaw, Capt. Thomas Denny, Capt. Whit-
comb, Mr. Timothy Bigelow, and Capt. Tyler, be a committee, to report in
relation to giving instructions to the representatives.
Voted, Tliat the same committee take into consideration the choice of
field officers.
Voted, As the opinion of this convention, that the sheriff adjourn the su-
perior court appointed by law to be held this day, and that he retain such
as are, or may be committed as criminals, in his custody, until they have a
trial.
Voted, That the plan for military organization be recommitted to the
same committee who have reported, to make further additions and amend-
ments.
Adjourned till to-morrow morning, at 8 o'clock. A, M.
ed with a sense of our duty to our country, paternal affection for our children and unborn millions, as
also for our personal rights and liberties, solemnly covenant, agree and engage to and with each otber,
that from and after the first day of December, 1774, we will not, according to the best of our knowl-
edge, any or either of us, nor any person by our directions, order or approbation, for or under any or
either of us, do or perform, any blacksmith's work, or business of any kind whatever, for any per-
son or persons whom we esteem enemies to this country, commonly known by the name of tories,
viz. : all councillors in this province appointed by mandamus, who have not publicly resigned said
office, also every person who addressed Governor Hutchinson on his departure from this province,
who has not publicly recanted : also every officer exercising authority by virtue of any commission
tending to carry any of the late oppressive acts of parliament into execution in America : and,
in particular, we will not do any work for Timothy Ruggles of Hardwick, John Murray of Rutland,
and James Putnam of Worcester, Esquires : nor for any person or persons cultivating, tilling, im-
proving, dressing, hiring, or occupying any of their lands or tenements. Also, we agree to refuse
our work of every kind, as aforesaid, to all and every person or persons who shall not have signed
the non-consumption agreeement, or have entered into a similar contract or engagement, or that
shall not strictly conform to the association or covenant agreed upon and signed by the Continental
Congress lately convened at Philadelphia.
Wo further agree, that wo will not do any work for any mechanic, tradesman, laborer, or others,
that shall work for, or in any ways, or by any moans whatever, aid, assist, or promote the business,
or pecuniary advantage, pleasures or profits of any the said enemies to this country.
Resolved, That all lawful ways and means ought to bo adopted by the whole body of tlio peoido
of this province, to discountenance all our inveterate political enemies in manner as aforesaid.
Therefore, we earnestly recommend it to all denominations of artificers, that they call meetings of
their respective craftsmen in theii several counties, as soon as may be, and enter into associations
and iigrecments for said jiurposcs : and that all husbandmen, laborers, &,c. do the like : and that
whoever shall be guilty of any breach of any or either of the articles or agreements, be held by us
in contempt, as enemies to our common rights.
ROSS WYMAN, Chairman.
TiMOTHV Bigelow, Clerk.
WORCESTER CONVENTION. 641
Ski'Tkmkkr 2\, 1774.
Tlie coMvciitioii met acconliiig to afljoiiriiiiiciit, and was o|)cncd with
j>iayi'i-.
A paper was sent by Mr. Sanuicl I'aiiie, clerk of tliu iiift.rior court, wliicli
is as follows :
To the several gentlemen of the committees of correspondence for the couniy of
JVorccsler, now convened in Jforcesler.
Gentlemen : — I tlion>flit I gave you all tiie satisfaction, relative to my
issuing tlie warrants, at your last meeting, wliicli could reasonahly be ex-
pected : still, you have demanded of me more. As I considered myself, in
tliat matter, as acting merely officialij', and, as such, had no right to judge
of the pro|)riety or impropriety of the act of parliament, and my issuing
the warrants gave the people, wiio were the only judges, an o])[)ortunity to
determine for tiiemselves whether they should be complied with or not,
upon this representation, I hope I shall stand fair in the eye of my country-
men. Should not this be a sufficient excuse for me, you must know, gen-
tlemen, that 1 was regularly appointed clerk of the peace for this county, by
the justices, in September last, and, as the said justices of the court of gen-
eral sessions of the peace, as well as the inferior court of common pleas
for this county, whose servant I am, on the sixth day of September current,
did give assurance to the body of the people of this county, then assembled
at Worcester, that they would not endeavor to put said act in execution, so,
gentlemen, I give' you the same assurance.
Your devoted sei-vant,
SAMUEL PAINE.
Voted, That the paper sent by 31 r. Paine is not satisfactory, and that the
same be committed to Mr. Joseph Henshaw, Mr. Bigelow and Mr. Doolittle,
who reported, after some time, as follows :
The committee to whom the convention referred the consideration of a
letter a<ldressed to them, signed Samuel Paine, have had the same before
them, and beg leave to report:
The letter appears to have been written by a young man, who, by his
coimections, has lately started into the office of clerk of the sessions and
inferior court, through the indulgence of the bench of justices. The letter
is affrontive to the convention, and in no respect answers their reasonable
requisitions. Considering the person who wrote it, the committee are of
opinion, it is of too small importance to be noticed any further by the
corvention, and therefore recommend, that said letter be dismissed, and the
person treated witli all neglect.
liy order of the committee,
JOSEPH HENSHAW, Chrtirmav.
81
642 WORCESTER CONVENTION.
Voted, To take notice of Mr. Sheriff Chandler, for carrying an address to
Governor Gage, and that a committee wait on him, and request his attend-
ance before this body, forthwith.
Voted, That Doct. Dunsmore, Mr. Drury, and jMr. Clapp, be a committee
to inform the sheriff of this vote of the convention respecting his conduct.
Mr. Sheriff came in, and presented the following declaration, which was
accepted :
Whereas, the convention of committees have exjjressed their uneasiness
to the sheriff of this county, now present before the convention, for pre-
senting, with others, an address to Governor Gage, he frankly declares it
was precipitately done by him: that he is sorry for it: and disclaims an in-
tention to do any thing against the minds of the inhabitants of this county :
and, had he known it would have given offence, he would not have jiresent-
ed said address.
GARDINER CHANDLER
Resolved, That as the ordinary courts of justice will be stayed, in conse-
quence of the late arbitrary and oppressive acts of the British parliament,
we would earnestly recommend to every inhabitant of this county, to pay
his just debts, as soon as possible, without any dispute or litigation, " and if
any disputes concerning debts or trespasses should arise, which cannot be
settled by the parties, we recommend it to them to submit all such causes
to arbitration ; and if the parties, or either of them, shall refuse to do so,
they ought to be considered as co-operating with the enenjies of the coun-
try."
The committee on instructions submitted their report, which was accept-
ed, and is as follows:
Resolved, That it be recommended to the several towns and districts, that
they instruct their representatives, who may be chosen to meet at Salem, in
October next, absolutely to refuse to be sworn by any officer or officers, but
such as are or may be appointed according to the constitution, or to act as
one branch of the legislature in concert with any others, except such as are,
or may be appointed, according to the charter of this province : and that
they refuse to give their attendance at Boston, while the toA\n is invested
with troops and ships of war : and should there be any thing to prevent
their acting with such a governor and council as is expressly set forth in
the charter, that they immediately repair to the town of Concord, and there
join in a provincial congress, with such other members as are or may be
chosen ibr that purpose, to act and determine on such measures as they
shall judge to be proper to extricate this colony out of the present unhap-
py circumstances.
Voted, That it ])v again recommended to the several towns and districts in
this county, that they jjrovidc themselves immediately with one or more
field pieces, mounted and fitted for use, and also, a sufficient quantity of
^^()KCESTRR CONVKNTrON. 043
amnninitiun lor llie same, .•iml lliul llio DJlicfiri ajipoiiil a sui(alil<' miriil)ir ol
men, out of their respective compuiiies, lo manage said licM pieci s.
Whereas, tiie pcoj)le of this rmiiity arc midcr soN'iiiii ohli^^atioiis nor to
piirciiase any f,'o()(Is importcil linui (Jnat Iiiitaiii, atii r ilic last day of Au-
gust, 1774, which they detcrujinc sacredly la adiiere to, until our many
grievances he redressed, llierelt)ie, Jiisolrcd, that it he rcconmiended, .'Uid
we do earnestly recommend it to the committees of correspondence or se-
lectmen, in the several seaport towns in this province, to appoint, or cause
to be aj)p()inted, committees to inspect the imports that have been, or shall
he made, since the last day of August, aforesaid, and piddish all ?uch in tlie
Boston newspaj>ers, with the names of the imi)ortors, that so we may care-
fully avoid all such persons in our dealings for the future.
J'uted, To choose a standing committee for the county, to correspond with
the committees of correspondence for the several counties, and elsewhere,
as they shall think proper ; also, to prepare njatter to lay before this body at
their several meetings ; to give *^he earliest intelligence to the several com-
mittees of any new attack upon the liberties of the people, and call a county
congressional convention at any time, as occasion may require.
Voted, That the committees of correspondence lor the towns of Worces-
ter and Leicester, be a committee for the above jjurpose, and that Messrs.
Thomas Denny, Joseph Henshaw, and Joshua JJigelow, be added to the
committee.
As the several regiments in this county are large and inconvenient, by the
increase of its iidiabitants since the first settlement of said regiments, there-
fore, J^oted, that the county be divided into seven distinct regiments, in the
following manner, to wit:
First — Worcester, Leicester, Holden, Spencer, Paxton.
Second — Sutton, Oxford, Sturljridge, Charlton, Dudley.
Third — Lancaster, Bolton, Harvard, Lunenbiu-g, Leominster, Fitchburg,
Ashburnham, Westminster.
Fourth — Brookfield, Western, Braintree, Hardwick, Oakham.
Fifth — Rutland, Hutchinson, Petersham, Athol, Templeton, Winchendon,
Royalston, Ilubardston, Princeton.
Sixth — Southborough, Westborough, Northborough, Shrewsbury, Grafton.
Seventh — .Mendon, Uxbridge, Northbridge, Upton, Douglas.
Voted, Tliat it be recommended to the several towns in this county, to
choose proper military officers, and a sufficient number for each town, and
that the captains, lieutenants, and ensigns, who are chosen by the ])eoplc in
each regiment, do convene, on or before the tenth day of October next, at
some convenient place in each regiment, and choose their field officers to
command the militia until they be constitutionally appointed, and that it be
recommended to the officers in each town of the county, to enlist one third
of the men of their respective towns, between sixteen and sixty years f)f age,
to be ready to act at a minute's warning ; and that it be recommended to each
town in the county, to choose a sufficient number of men as a committee to
supply and support those troops that shall move on any emergency.
644 WORCESTER. CONVENTION.
Voted, That it be recommended to the company officers of the minute
men, to meet at Worcester, on the 17th of October next, at ten o'clock of
the forenoon, to proportion their own regiments, and choose as many field
officers as they shall think necessary.
Voted, Tliat it be recommended to tlie justices of the county, that they
liberate any persons confined in jail for debt, who are entitled to such liber-
ation by the laws of the province.
Voted, That Capt. Josepli Henshaw, Colonel Thomas Denny, and Capt.
Willard Moore, be a committee to present the following remonstrance, in
behalf of this convention, to his Excellency General Gage.
To his Excellency Thomas Gage, Esq., ^-c. S,-c.
The peojjle of the county of Worcester, being earnestly solicitous for the
peace and welfare of the province in general, cannot view the measures now
pursuing by your excellenc}', but with increasing jealousy, as they appre-
hend there has not existed, and does not at present exist, any just occasion
for the formidable hostile preparations making on the neck leading to our
distressed capital.
It is a matter of such notoriety, that your excellency must be sensible,
there was not the least opposition made to obstruct the introduction of the
king's troops at their first landing, nor have the people, since that time, dis-
covered any intention to disturb them, till your excellency was pleased to
order the seizure of the powder iu the arsenal at Charlestown, in a private
manner, which occasioned the report that a skirmish had happened between
a party of the king's troops and the people at Cambridge, in which several
of the latter fell. This caused the jjeople to form and march from divers
parts of the country ; but no sooner had the report })roved false, than they
returned peaceably to their homes.
The inhabitants of the province in general, and of the town of Boston, have
never given cause for those cruel and arbitrary acts, for blockading their har-
bor and subverting the charter by altering the civil government of the prov-
ince, which, however, this people are determined, by the divine favor, never
to submit to, but with their lives, notwithstanding they are aggrieved at the
king's displeasure against them, through the instigation of traitorous and de-
signing men.
This county finds it diflicult to comprehend the motives for the ])resent
hostile parade, unless it be in consequence of some preconcerted j)lan to
subject the already distressed town of Boston to mean compliances or mili-
tary contributions. They are equally at a loss to account for your excellen-
cy's conduct towards the county of Sufiblk, as iu your answer to their ad-
dress, remonstrating against Ibrtifying the only avenue to the town, which,
by that means, may, in some future time, be inq)roved to cut ofi'the commu-
nication between town and country, and thereby reduce the miserable in-
habitants to the greatest straits ; your excellency is pleased in answer to ob-
serve, that you had not made it easier to effect this, than what natiu-e has
WORCESTER CONVENTION. i>45
made it; if so, ilic comily riiiinot conceive, wliy tliis expense and damage
of tlie town to no purpose; your excellency is likewise pleased to take no-
tice of tliH general good behavior of the soldiers, but at the same time pass
over that part complaining of the detention of private property, and j)ro-
ceed to answer by way of (iiicrc, to which you would not permit a reply.
This county are constrained to observe, they apprehend the people justifia-
ble in |)roviding for their own defence, while they understood there was no
passing the neck without examination, the cannon at the north battery
spiked up, and many places searched, where firms and ammunition were
suspected to be, and if Ibund, seized ; yet, as the people have never acted of-
fensively, nor discovered any disj)Osition so to do, till as above related, the
county apprehends this can never justify the seizure of private property.
It is w^ith gre.1t anxiety this county observes the wanton exercise of pow-
er in the officers of the customs at Salem, and on board the king's ships, re-
specting the article of fuel, destined for the use of the inhabitants of Boston,
wlio are obliged to have it wi:h the additional charge of lauding and relad-
ing at Salem, before it can proceed ; when your excellency must be sensible,
the act, which is the professed rule of conduct, expressly excepts fuel and
victuals, which may be brought to Boston by taking on board one or more
officers, without the aforesaid charge, while that destined for the troops pro-
ceeds direct, free from the same. There are many other things which bear ex-
tremely hard on the inhabitants, while they are prohibited from transport-
ing the smallest articles from one part of the town to another, water-borne,
without danger of a seizure, or to get hay, cattle, &c., from any of the
islands, notwithstanding there is no other way of transportation.
Yoiu- excellency, we aj)prehend, must have been greatly misinformed of
the character of this peojjle, to suppose such severities tend either to a sub-
mission to the acts, or reconciliation with the troops ; and the county axe
sori-y to find the execution of the acts attempted with an higher hand than
was intended, unless the acts themselves should be thought too lenient.
Bringing into the town a numl)er of cannon liom Castle-William ; sending
for a further reinforcement of troops, with other concurring circumstances,
strongly indicating some dangerous design; have justly excited in the minds
of the people, apprehensions of the most alarming nature, and the authors
must be held accountable for all the blood and carnage made in conse-
quence thereof Therefore, this county, in duty to God, their country,
themselves, and posterity, do remonstrate to, and earnestly desire your ex-
cellency, as you regard the service of the king, and the peace and welfare of
the province, to desist from any further hostile preparations, and give the
people assurance thereof, by levelling the entrenchments and dismantling
the fortifications, which will have a tendency to satisfy their doubts, and re-
store that confidence so essential to their quiet, and his majesty's service.
By order of the convention of committees for the county of Worcester.
JOSEPH HENSHAW, aiainmn.
Attest, William Henshaav, Clerk.
64G WORCESTER CONVENTION.
Voted, That this meetuig be adjourned to the first Tuesday of December
next, at 10 o'clock, of the forenoon, to meet at the court house in Worcester.
December G, 1774.
The convention of committees met according to adjounnnent, and after
prayer by the llev. Mr. Maccarty, proceeded to business.
The committee appointed to present the remonstrance to General Cage,
reported, tliat they offered the same to Mr. Secretary Flacker, who kept the
address some days, and returned it to them, with the following answer:
Boston, Oct. G, 1774.
Gentlemen : — His excellency the governor is ever ready to receive any
address of his majesty's subjects, properly laid before him ; but that from
the county of Worcester, which you were appointed to present, not being
directed to him as governor of the province, and there being an article in it
injurious to his majesty, the governor declines receiving it at present, as he
wishes to have an alteration in those two points before it is presented.
I am, Gentlemen, your humble servant,
THOMAS FLUCKER.
To Messrs. Thomas Denny, Joseph Hensliaw, Willard Moore,
The committee being afterwards informed, that if the address were direct-
ed to General Gage, with his official titles, it would be received, they waited
on the governor, on Friday, October 14th, and i)resented the address, en-
titled as follows :
" To his Excellency Thomas Gage, Esq., Governor of his Majesty^s Province
of ike Massachusetts Bay, and Commander in Chief of the King's forces in Aoj-Z/i
.^mericaJ'^
The governor returned the following answer to the same :
Gentlemen : — 1 have repeatedly given the strongest assurances, that I
intended nothing hostile against the town or country, and therefore, desire
you to ease the minds of the ])eople against any reports that mayliave been
industriously f;i)road amongst them to the contrary; my wish is to preserve
peace and tran()uillity.
With respect to the execution of the port-bill, it is a matter belonging to
other departments ; and if any thing is done not ^\ arranted by said act, the
law is open for i-edress.
TliOxMAS GAGE.
Voted, To rerpiest the Provincial Congress to establish the Norfolk exer-
cise, with such alterations as they shall think proper, instead of the exercise
of 1764.
WORCESTER CONVENTION. «JI7
Voted, To recoiiiinriul the ruisiii<,' an jirtillery comjiaiiy in tliis county, to
cxoici:^e and niana;.'r tlie lie-Id pieces, and tliat tlie itoisons chosen for that
purpose' in eae-li town, meet at Worcester, on tiic 17th of January next, at
eleven o'clock, A. M., to form themselves into a company, and to choose
officers.
t'oleil, That Timothy iligelow, .Mr. Bancroft, William Ilcnshaw, Mr. Saw-
yer, and iMr. Jonathan Stone, be a committee to draft a petition and remon-
strance to the Provincial Congress, against the sixty-four exercise, and put
tlie votes of this convention in order.
Voted, That William Ilcnshaw, Capt. Timothy Bigelow, and Col. Joseph
Ilenshaw, be a committee to present the petition aiul remonstrance to the
Provincial Congress.^
J'oted, To recommend to the several towns in this county, to give it
in charge to their constables and collectors, on their peril, not to pay any
public moneys to Harrison Gray, Esq., late treasurer of this province, and
to indemnity them for paying it where the towns shall order them to pay.
Voted, That tiie inhabitants of each town in this county, order their asses-
sors not to return any certificates of the lists of assessments made by them,
to Harrison Gray, Esq., late treasm-er of the province, and tliat they indem-
nify them therefor.
Whereas, we are informed there is a covenant circulating through this
province, wherein the signers have combined against the liberties of the
people, therefore, Voted, that William Henshaw, Capt. Timothj' Bigelow,
and Col. Joseph Henshaw, be a committee humbly to request the advice of
the Provincial Congress, what measures this county shall take ui that af-
fair, i
Voted, To choose a committee of nine persons, any two of whom to go to
the field officers of the county of Worcester, to know the reason why they
have not resigned their commissions to the governor, and j)ublished such
resignation in tiie Boston newspapers, agreeably to a vote of this convention
at a Ibrmer meeting, and demand a categorical answer, whether they will
comply or not with said requisition, and make report to this body at their
next meeting.
Capt. Gates, Capt. Timothy Bigelow, Mr. Joshua Bigelow, Major Willard
Moore, Col. Sawyer, 3Ir. Dodge, Cajjt. Joseph Gilbert, and Mr. Hezekiah
Ward, were chosen a connnittee for the above purpose.
Voted, That it be recommended to the inhabitants of each town in this
county, to choose connnittees of inspection to carry into eflJect the resolves
and proceedings of tiie Continental Congress.
Voted, That we will encourage a ])rinting office to be set iqi in this coun-
ty, and recommend to every town herein, to give all proper encouragement
to such undertaking.
Voted, That Capt. Timothy Bigelow, Mr. Joshua Bigelow^, and William
(1) This vote relates to the royalist covenant, drawn by Gen. Ruggles, inserted in the note to
the journal of the Fioviucial Congress, ante puge 6S.
648 WORCESTER CONVENTION.
Henshaw, be a committee to consult with Mr. Isaiah Thomas, and endeavor
to procure a printing office to be set up.
Voted, Tliat tlie convention be adjourned, to meet on the 26th of Januai-y
next, at ten o'clock, A. M., at Worcester, at the court house.
January 20, 1774.
The convention met at the court house in Worcester.
In the absence of the chairman. Col. Artemas Ward was chosen chairman
pro tempore.
Voted, That Col. William Henshsw, Col. Ward, Mr. David Bancroft, Capt.
Timothy Bigelow, Doct. Dunsmoie, 31 r Longley, Capt. Job Cushing, Capt.
Page, and Col. Sparhawk, be a committee to take into consideration a plan
for this county to adopt respecting the non-consumption covenants of the
Continental and Provincial Congress, and to report thereon.
Voted, That it be recommended to the selectmen in each town and dis-
trict in the county, to insert in the warrants lor tlie next March meetings, an
article to choose a county treasurer agreeably to law.
Voted, To adjourn till to-morrow morning, at nine o'clock, A. M.
January 27, 1774.
The convention met according to adjournment.
The committee chosen yesterday, being ready to report.
Voted, 1'hat the convention sit with closed doors, during the disputes on
the covenants.
The committee on the covenant reported as follows :
Resolved, That it be recommended to the inhabitants of this county that
have not signed this or a similar covenant, that they do it as soon as may
be with convenience. The covenant is as follows :
We, the subscribers, having seen the association and covenant drawn up
by the grand Continental Congress, respecting the non-importation, non-
consumption, and non-exportation of goods, signed by our delegates, and
also the delegates of the other colonies on the continent, and also the addi-
tion thereto, made by the delegates in Provincial Congress, dated Cambridge,
December .'i, 1774, for carrying into execution the said association, and hav-
ing attentively considered, do heartily approve of said association, and the
addition, and of every part thereof; and in order to make the same associa-
tion our own personal act, we do, by these presents, associate under the sa-
cred ties of virtue, honor, and love of our country, strictly to observe and
keep all and every article and clause in said association, and addition con-
tained with resi)ect to the imi)ortation, exportation, and consumption, ac-
cording to the true intent, meaning, and letter thereof, and will duly inform,
and give notice of every evasion or contravention of said agreeinent, so far
as we are able. All and every of which clauses aforesaid, to remain firm
W HUCKSTER CONVIIN'I'IO.N. dl'.t
and ill l()rc(; iiiilil ovi rnilcd l>y a rotiliiK'iitiil and |ir<i\ incial Imdy duly a.s-
8(-iiililcd.
Till! ubi)\c was acccptt'il 1)\' llic (•<iii\iiiti()ii, and .^i;:iicd l)y tlic nniiiht'is
llieicoti
Voted, That Col. Ward, Ca])t. Ncwlwdl, and CdI. IIoIiumii, ho a conmunvn
to wait on tlie Rev. Mr. ]''isli, and disin; iiini to prcacli a suiinoii hcd'on; tiie
convention, at tli(3 next nuM-liiifi;, and in case of failure, to wait upon tlie
Rev. Mr. Paine, for lliat I)Mrj^()^(!,
t oted, 'I'liat iMr. Cliairnian, Mr. JJancrolt, and Mr. Stone, be a committee
to wait on the Rev. Mr. Maccarty, and obtain leave to use his pulpit, and to
make |)rovision for the reverend clcr<ry who may attend.
toted, Tliat Col. Ward, Capt. Jiigelow, Capt. Willaid, Capt, Fay, and
Capt. Newliall, be a committee to take into consideration the misbehavior of
imdiolders, retailers, and persons selling iicpiors witlioiit a license.
Voted, To adjourn to three o'clock, P. M.
Afternoon.
The convention met according to adjournment.
Voted, That Col. Ward, Doct. Dunsmore, Capt. Bigelow, William Hen-
shaw, Capt. Willard, Capt. Fay, and Capt. Nevvhall, be a committee to take
into consideration, the conduct of certain persons inimical to their country.
Their report thereon was made, accei)ted, and is as follows :
Whereas, the convention of committees for the county of Worcester, did,
on the 31st of August, 1774, resolve; that it be recommended to such inn-
holders and retailers in said county, who may be approbated by the select-
men in their respective towns, to continue and e.xercise their respective
functions, provided they strictly adhere to the laws of this province, respect-
ing innholders and retailers, and it was the sense of the convention, that no
person or persons, ouglit to sell spirituous liquors in said county, but such as
are, or shall be approbated by the selectmen of their n>spective towns or
districts : and as complaint has been made to the convention now sittin"^
that a number of persons in this county do practise the selling strong liquors
without the approbation as aforesaid, which is not only counteracting a re-
solve of said convention, but is against the law of the province, is of dan-
geroiis consequence, and has a tendency to corrupt the morals of the people :
for preventing the same, and promoting peace and good order, it is Resolv-
ed, that it be recommended to the committees of correspondence, inspection,
and selectmen in every town and district in this county, carefully to inquire
into such illegal practices, and disorders, and not only discountenance, but
discourage and put a final stop to such breaches of good order; but, jiiovid-
ed any person will not be reclaimed, ho or they ought to be held up to the
public view, and treated not only with neglect, but contempt, as enemies of
the public as well as of private good, until they reform.
And, whereas, Isaac Jones of Weston, in the county of Middlesex, inn-
holder and trader, has, by his conduct of late years, in various instances,
82
GoO WORCESTEll CONVENTION.
manifested a disposition inimical to the rights and privileges of his country-
men : therefore,
Resolved, That it be earnestly rcconiniendod to all the inhabitants of this
county, not to have any commercial connections with said Isaac Jones, but
to shun his house and person, and treat him with that contempt he deserves :
and should any persons in this county be so lost to a sense of their duty,
after this recommendation, as to have any commercial connections or deal-
ings with said Jones, we do advise the inhabitants of this county to treat
such persons with the utmost neglect.
Voted, That Mr. Willard Moore, Mr. Nathaniel Longley, and Capt. Wil-
liam Page, be a committee to take under consideration a motion made re-
specting IMessrs. Mills and Hicks, and Draper's newspapers, who made re-
port, wliich was accepted, as follows :
Whereas, the enemies of these united colonies are indefatigable in tJieir
endeavors to create divisions among the inhabitants, and as there are seve-
ral printers on the continent, viz. : Rivington and Gaines of New York,
Draper, Mills and Hicks of Boston, that incessantly assist them in their en-
deavors, by publishing their scandalous performances in their several news-
papers : therefore.
Resolved, That it be recommended to the good people of this county, not
to take any more of the aforesaid papers, but that they encourage thosu
printers who have invariably appeared friendly to the country.
Voted, That Col. Ward, Ca]n. Newhall, Capt. Page, Capt. Bigelow, and
Major Moore, be a committee to take the affairs of trade into consideration,
and to remonstrate against riots and routs.
The report of this committee was accepted, and is as follows :
Resolved, That it be strongly recommended by this body to the commit-
tees of inspection in the sevei'al towns in this county, that they be very as-
siduous in the discharge of the trust reposed in thejn, with respect to trade ;
to see that all traders keep strictly to the rules laid down by the Continen-
tal and Provincial Congress : and also, that they make strict inquiry of eve-
ry person that purchases goods abroad, who they trade with, and m hen the
goods were imported; and that it be also recommended to the inhabitants
of this county, whenever they purciiase goods as abovesaid, that they be
very careful not to break covenant : and that they take bills of jjarceJs of
every article, and lay the same before the committee for their inspection,
that no person may be imposed upon by those villains that are inimical to
the cause of liberty.
Whereas, we are lully sensible that our enemies are assiduously endeav-
oring to provoke us to acts of violence, not only with those whom we
esteem inimical to our liberties, who are natives of this province, but also
with General Gage, and the king's troops; endeavoring thereby, as we ap-
prehend, to exceed the bounds of our patience, that they may have a pre-
tence to represent us as the aggressors : therefore,
WOKCKS'l'KIt C()>iVi:N riO.N. (;.',!
Resolved, Thut \vc arc di|)Oscil to (■oiuliirl oiiiselvcs in a Irit'iKil} inaiincr
towards his majesty's troops, agreeably to the recoinmeiidation of the Con-
tinental Coiijrn-ss, so long as they behave j)eaceably towards us.
Itcsolveii, That it be ii.'coininended to tiie inhabitants of tiiis county, to be
very careful in discountenancing and suppressing ail acts of violence, ex-
cept so much as is necessary to carry the resolves of the Continental and
Provincial Congress into execution ; and being fully convinced of the jus-
tice of our cause, we arc determined firmly and religiously to support and
maintain our rights, even to the loss of our lives ami fortunes, before we will
dastartlly and im])iously give up and submit to an arbitrary power.
Voted, That the standing committee fit and prepare the votes and re-
solves of the convention for the press, and get such a number of hand-
bills, containing the same, struck off as the}' shall think proper, for circula-
tion.
Voted, To adjourn to the twenty-eighth day of March next, to meet at 10
o'clock, A. JM. at the court house in Worcester.
March 28, 1775.
The convention met according to adjournment
Voted, That the Rev. Mr. Chaplain be requested to open this convention
with prayer.
Voted, That the convention do now proceed to the meeting house, to at-
tend the sermon by the Rev. Elisha Fish, and the other exercises.
The convention being again met in the afternoon :
Voted, 'Jhat the thanks of the convention be presented to the Rev. Mr.
Fish, for the discourse preached before them, and that the standing commit-
tee wait upon him and request a copy thereof for the press.
Voted, That the standing committee ])rint as many copies of said dis-
course as they judge fit, for circulation.
^ Mat 31, 1775.
The convention met according to adjournment, at the court house, in
Worcester.
Mr. William Young was elected chairman pro tempore, and .Feduthan
Baldwin clerk pro tempore.
Voted, That the Rev. 31r. Chaplain be desired to open this convention
with prayer.
Voted, To pass over counting the votes for county treasurer.
Voted, That Col. Hezekiah Wai'd, 3Ir. Padleford, and Mr. Joshua Bigelow,
be a committee to draw up a remonstrance to the Pi'ovincial Congress, that
no man be allowed to have a seat therein who does not vote away his own
money for public 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 countrj-, to exercise the
right of voting in town meetings.
Resolved, That the erecting of a paper mill in this county would be of
great public advantage ; and if any person or persons will undertake the
<>52 BERKSHIRE CONVENTION.
erecting of such mill and the manufacture of paper, that it be recommend-
ed to the people of the county to encourage the undertaking by generous
contributions and subscriptions.!
CONVENTION OF BERKSHIRE COUNTY.
At a meeting of sixty gentlemen, deputies of the several towns in the
county of lierkshire, appointed to considt and advise what was necessary and
prudent to be done by the inhabitants of this county, in the present alarm-
ing situation of our public affairs, met at Stockbridge, July 6th, 1774 :
John Ashley, Esq. was imanimously chosen chairman, and Mr. Theodore
Sedgwick, clerk.
Mr. Williams, Mr. Sedgwick, Mr. Curtis, IMr. Brown, and IMr. Hopkins,
being appointed, reported the following resolves, viz. :
Resolved, That king George the third is our rightful king, and that we will
bear true allegiance to him.
Resolved, That the inhabitants of his majesty's colonies in America, are
justly entitled to all the rights and liberties that the inhabitants of Great
Britain are entitled to, which rights and liberties have been particularly con-
firmed to the inhabitants of this province, by charter.
Resolved, That it is one of the grand rights and liberties of said inhabi-
tants of Great Britain, that they cannot, constitutionally, be deprived of their
property but by their own consent.
Resolved, That the late act of the British parliament, for giving and grant-
ing to his majesty, a duty upon all teas im})oited from Great Britain into
America, which duty, by said act, is made payable here, for the purpose of
raising a revenue, was made without the consent of the inhabitants of
America, whereby their property is taken from them without their con-
sent, and therefore ought to be opposed in all legal and prudent ways.
Resolved, That it is an undoubted right of the inhabitants of said colonies,
in all actions, to be tried by their peers of the vicinity; and, therefore, that
all those acts of the British parliament, that any way respect the collecting
the duties aforesaid, Avhercby the trial by jury is taken away, or whereby
the ancient trial by jury is in any way altered, are unconstitutional and op-
pressive.
Resolved, That whenever any franchises and liberties are granted to a cor-
poration or body politic, those franchises and liberties cannot legally be ta-
ken from such corporations and bodies politic, but by their consent or by
forfeiture ; that the inhabitants of this province have many great and inval-
uable franchises and liberties granted to them by charter ; which franchises
(1) Although meetinga of the Worcester County Convention were held at n later date, no regular
journal of the subseiiuent proceedings can be recovered.
lUlRKSllJllK C0NVI;:NTI0N. (ir>:i
mid liburlies huw iioi been IbrCeitcd or rcsigiu'd l»y suid iiiliubitunts ; that
by the Uitc nets of tho liritiali pailianioiit, soiih; of iIk^ most vahialtle of
those fraiicliises and liberties of tlie said iidiabitauts are taken Jioin ihein,
witliout even tlie Ibriu of a trial : tiierefore,
Resolved, Tliat it is tlic indispensable duty of every person, who \\ ould
preserve to himself and posterity the inestimable blessings of liberty, by all
constitutional ways and means in his power, to endeavor to avert the much
dreaded consetpjences of these arbitrary and oi»pn;ssive acts; and that, for
tJiat purpose, it is prudent for tiie inhabitants of the said colonies to enter
into an agreement not to purchase or consume the manufactures of Great
Britain, under such limitations and exceptions as shall be agreed upon ;
and that such a non-consumj)tion agreement is neitiier unwarrantable, hos-
tile, traitorous, nor contrary to our allegiance due to the king; but tends to
promote the peace, good order, and salety of the community.
Which said report being maturely considered, it was put to vote, para-
graph by paragraph, and each and every paragraph thereof was unanimous-
ly accepted-
A committee being appointed to make a draught of a form of a solemn
league and covenant, to be recommended to be signed by the inhabitants of
this county, to prevent the consumption of the merchandize of Great Brit-
ain; the following draught was reported, viz. :
Whereas, the parliament of Great Britain have, of late, undertaken to
give and grant away our money, without our knowledge or consent ; and in
order to compel us to a servile submission to the above measures, have pro-
ceeded to block up the harbor of Boston ; also have vacated, or arc about
to vacate the charter, and repeal certain laws of this province, heretofore
enacted by the general court, and confirmed by the king and his predeces-
sors: therefore, as a mean to obtain a speedy redress of the aforesaid griev-
ances, we do hereby, solemnly and in good faith, covenant and engage with
each other:
1. That ^vc will not import, purchase, or consume, or suffer any person
by, for, or under us, to import, purchase, or consume, in any manner what-
ever, any goods, wares, or merchandize, which sliall arrive in America from
Great Britain, from and after the first day of October, one thousand seven
hundred and seventy-four, or such other time as shall hereafler be agreed
upon by the American Congress ; nor any goods, which shall be ordered
from thence, after this day, until our charter and constitutional rights shall
be restored, or luitil it shall be determined, by the major part of our breth-
ren in this and the neighboring colonies, that a non-importation and non-
consumption agreement will not have a tendency to effect the desired end,
or until it shall be aijjjarent that a non-importation or non-consumption
agreement will not be entered into by the majority of this and the neigh-
boring colonies; except such articles as the said General Congress of North
America shall agree to import, purchase, and consume.
2. We do fiu-ther covenant and agree, that we will observe the most strict
654 BERKSHIRE CONVENTION.
obedience to all constitutional laws, and authority, and will, at all times, ex-
ert ourselves to the utmost, for the discouragement of" all licentiousness, and
suppression of all mobs and riots,
3. We will all exert ourselves, as far as in us lies, in promoting love,
peace, and unanimity among each other ; and for tliat end we engage to
avoid all unnecessary lawsuits whatever.
4. As a strict and proper adherence to this present agreement will, if not
seasonably provided against, involve us in many difficulties and inconven-
iences; we do promise and agree, that we will take the most prudent care
for the raising and preserving sheep, for the manufacturing all such cloths
as shall be most useful and necessary ; for the raising of flax and manufac-
turing linens. Further, that we will, by every prudent method, endeavor to
guard against all those inconveniences which may otherwise arise, from the
foregoing agreement.
5. Tliat if any person shall refuse to sign this or a similar covenant, or,
after having signed it, shall not adhere to the real intent and meaning there-
of iie or they shall be treated by us with all that neglect justly deserved.
6. That if this or a similar covenant shall, after the first day of August
next, be offered to any trader or shop-keeper in this countj', and he or they
shall refuse to sign the same, for the space of forty-eight hours, that we will
not, from thenceforth, purchase any articles of British manufactures, from
him or them, until such time as he or they shall sign this or a similar cove-
nant.
Witness our hands, this day of July, Anno Domini, 1774.
Which being several times distinctly read, it was put paragraph by para-
graph, and accepted.
This Congress, in deference to the resolves of the late house of represen-
tatives, in imitation of the pious example of the reverend pastors of the as-
sociated churches in the town of Uoston, and from a sense of their depend-
ence on God for every mercy, do earnestly recommend to all denomina-
tions of christians in this county, to set apart and observe Thursday, the
fourteen day of July current, as a day of public fasting and prayer, to im-
plore the divine assistance, that he would in mercy interpose and avert all
those evils with which we are threatened.
And each and all the members of this Congress are enjoined to inform
the several ministers of the several religious assemblies to which they be-
long, hereof
Voted, That the several members of this Congress, do recommend to the
charity of the inhabitants of the several towns and places to which tliey be-
long, tlie distressed circumstances of the i)oor of the towns of Boston and
Charlestown, and that whatever shall be collected for them, be remitted in
fat cattle in the next fall, by such ways and means as shall be hereafter
agreed upon.
Voted, unanimously, That thanks ])o given Col. Ashley, for his constant
attendance, uprightness, and impartiality, as chairman.
Voted, That the clerk be enjoined to make a fair copy of the proceedings
CUMBEKLAND CONVENTION. (ioo
of this mt'i'tinif, uiid truiisiiiit llic sauie to the toiiiiiiittco of conesijondeiice
of the town of Hostoii.
Voted, To dissolve this iiiectiiij,'; and it was dissolved accordiii<,dy.
THEODORE SEDGWICK, Clerk.
N. 15. — Tlie proceedings aforesaid were preceded by un animated prayer,
made by the lie v. I\lr. West.
CONVENTION OF CUxMBERLAND COUNTY.
At a meeting of the following gentlemen, chosen by the several towns in
the county of Cumberland, held at Falmouth, in said county, on the 21st
day of September, 1774, at the house of Mrs. Greele, viz. :
Falmouth — Hon. Enoch Freeman, Esq., Stephen Longfellow, Esq., Mr.
Richard Codman,Capt. John Waite, IMr. Enoch llsey, Mr. Samuel Freeman.
Scarborough — Capt. Timothy McDaniel, Capt. Reuben Fogg, Mr. Joshua
Fabyan.
JVorth Yarmuuih — Mr. John Lewis, David Mitchel, Esq., Mr. Jonathan
Mitchel, Mr. Joliu Gray, Mr. William Cutter.
Gorham — Solomon Lombard, Esq., William Gorham, Esq., Capt. Edmund
Phiuncy, Capt. Briant Morton, Mr. Joseph Davis.
Cape Elizabeth — Doct. Clement Jordan, Mr. Peter Woodbury, Mr. Samuel
Dunn, Capt. Jeduthau Dyer, Doct. Nathaniel Jones, 31r. George Strout.
Brunswick — Mr. Samuel Thompson, Mr. Samuel Stanwood, Capt. Thomas
Moulton.
Harpswell — Mr. Joseph Ewing, Capt. John Stover, Mr. Andrew Dunning.
Windham — Mr. Zerubabel Honeywell, Mr. Thomas Trott, Mr. David Bar-
ker.
Acw Gloucester — Mr. William Harris, Mr. Isaac Parsons.
The Hon. Enoch Freeman, Esq., was chosen chairman, and Mr. Samuel
Freeman, clerk.
A counnittee from the body of the people, w ho were assembled at the
entrance of tlie town, waited on this convention, to see if they would
choose a committee of one member out of each town, to join them, to
wait upon Mr. Sheriflf Tyng, to see whether he would act in his office, un-
der the late act of parliament for regulating the government. On a motion
made. Voted, that a messenger be sent to the said Sherift' Tyng, to desire
his attendance at this convention. A messenger then waited upon Mr.
Tyng, with the following billet, viz. :
Mr. Sheriff Tyng's company is desired at the convention of the county
now sitting at Mrs. Greele's.
SAMUEL FREEMAN, Clerk.
IVednesdaij, Sept. 21s/, 1774, 11 o'clock, A. .M.
656 CUxMBERLAND CONVENTION.
Mr. Tyng accordingly attended, and, after some interrogations, subscribed
the following declaratioa, viz. :
County of Cumberland, Falmouth, Sept. 21, 1774.
Whereas, great numbers of the inhabitants of this county are now as-
sembled near my house, in consequence of the false representations of
some evil minded pei-sons, who have reported that I have endeavored, all in
my power, to enforce the late acts of parliament, relating to this province :
I do hereby solemnly declare, that I have not, in any way whatever, acted
or endeavored to act, in conformity to said acts of parliament ; and, in com-
pliance with the commands of the inhabitants so assembled, and by the ad-
vice of a committee from the several towns in this county, now assembled
in Congress, I further declare I will not, as sheriff of said county, or other-
wise, act in conformity to, or by virtue of, said acts, unless by the general
consent of tlie said county. I further declare, 1 have not received any com-
mission inconsistent with the charter of this province, nor any commission
whatever, since the first day of July last.
WILLIAM TYNG.
County of Cumberland. — At the convention of committees from the
several towns in the said county, held at the house of Mrs. Greele, in Fal-
mouth, in said county. September 21st, 1774, Voted, that the foregoing, by
William Tyng, Esq., subscribed, is satisfactoi-y to this convention.
Attest: SAMUEL FREEMAN, ClerL
The convention then formed themselves into a committee, to accompany
Mr. Tyng to the body of the people, to present the above declaration, and
adjourned to the old town house, at three o'clock, P. M., the deliberation to
be in public.
The committee accordingly went with Mr. Tyng, who i"ead the declara-
tion to the people, which they voted to be satisfactory, and after refreshing
themselves, returned peaceably to their several homes.
Afternoon.
Met according to adjournment.
Voted, That Mr, Samuel Freeman, Solomon Lombard, Esq., Stephen
Longfellow, Esq., David Mitchel, Esq., ?tlr. John Lewis, Capt. John Waite,
Mr. Samuel Thompson, Capt. Timotliy McDaniel, Doct. Nathaniel Jones,
Mr. Isaac Parsons, Enocli Freeman, Esq., Mr. David Karker, and Capt. John
Stover, be a connnitteo to draw up the sentiments of this convention, and
report the same at the adjournment.
Then adjourned to Thursday morning, eight o'clock, September 22.
Thursday, September 22, 1774.
Met according to adjournment, when the committee presented the follow-
ing report, which, after being read paragraph by paragraph, was unanimous-
ly accepted, viz. ;
The great concern with whicli the people of this county view the increas-
CUMBERLAND CONVENTION. 657
iiig (linerciici's, wliidi now 6uli?ii.st between the inotlier eoMntiy nnd tlie col-
onics, and tlie dnrk prospect which some lute acts of the British parliament
liave, in partieiilar, opened to tiiem, iiave occasioned tlio several towns
herein to choose committees for this convention, "to consider what meas-
ures it would he tiiou^^ht e.\|)edieMt to adopt for the general interest of the
county, in the present alarming situation of our puhhc atliiirs." We, there-
fore, the said committees, pursuant to tlie recpiest ol' our respective towns,
guided by a strong attachment to the interest of our oppressed country,
think it proper, with respect and deference to our brethren in the other
counties, to make known our minds as follows:
We think it the indispensable duty of every subject of the English con-
stitution, for his own sake, as well as that of future generations, to use his
utmost care, and endeavor, according to the station he is in, to j)rcserve the
same inviolate and unimpaired ; for we regard it, not oidy as the foundation
of all our civil rights and liberties, but as a system of govermncnt the best cal-
culated to promote the i)eople's peace and happiness: and we lament, that iu
the present administration, there are men so lost to all the principles of honor,
equity, and justice, as to attempt a violation of the rights which we have
long enjoyed, and which, while we profess ourselves, as we now declare we
do, faitiiful subjects to George the third, our rightful sovereign, we have a
right still to enjoy entire and unmolested: and it is a melancholy considera-
tion, that the acknowledged head of this respected state should be induced
to pass his sanction to such laws as tend to the subversion of that glorious
freedom, which preserves the greatness of the British empire, and gives it
reputation throughout all the nations of the civilized world. It is too appa-
rent, that the British ministry have long been hatching monstrous acts to
break our constitution, and some they have at length brought forth. We
think the colonies deserve a better treatment from his majesty than this
which he assents to. We are his loyal subjects, and merit his regard, and
cannot help thinking that if he would pursue his own unbiassed judgment,
and lay aside the selfish counsel of wicked and designing men, he and his
subjects would be mutually happy, and provocations on both sides cease.
But since the ministry have borne their tyranny to such a length, as to
endeavor to execute their wicked designs, by military force, in our me-
tropolis, we fear it is their aim to introduce despotic monarchy. But
though their tyranny and fell oppression seem now, with hasty strides, to
threaten all the colonies with ruin and destruction, we hope no vengeance
will affright, or w iles allure us to give up our dear bought liberty, that choicest
boon of Heaven, which our fathers came into these regions to enjoy, and
which we therefore will retain while life enables us to struggle for its bless-
ings. We believe our enemies supposed we must submit, and tamelj' give
up all our rights. It is true, a vigorous ojjposition will subject us to many
inconveniences, but how much greater will our misery be, if we relinquish
all we now enjoy, and lay our future earnings at the mercy of despotic
men ? We cannot bear the thought. Distant posterity would have cause
to curse our folly, and the rising generation would justly execrate our niem-
83
C58 CUMBERLAND CONVENTION.
ory. We, therefore, recornineiid a manly opposition to those cruel acts,
and every measure which despotism can invent to abridge our English lib-
erties, and we hope that patience will possess our souls till Providence
shall dissipate the gloomy cloud, and restore us to our former happy state.
The late act for regulating the government of this province, we consider, in
particular, as big with mischief and destruction, tending to the subversion
of our charter and our province laws, and in its dire example, alarming to
all the colonies. This, through the conduct of some enemies among om*-
selves, will soon bring us into difficulties, which will require some able
counsel to remove. We therefore recommend to each town in this county,
to instruct their several rej^resentatives to resolve themselves, with the
other members of the house, at their approaching session, into a provincial
congress, for this purpose.
To this congress we shall submit the general interest of the province, but
for the particular benefit of this county, we do advise and recommend :
1. That the justices of the sessions, and court of common pleas, and
every other civil officer in this county, whom no authority can remove but
that which constituted them, agreeably to charter and our own provincial
laws, would religiously officiate in their several departments, as if the afore-
said act had never been invented, and that every private person would pay
a strict obedience to such officers, be always ready to protect and to sup-
port them, and promote a due observance of our own established laws ;
and if any persons whatsoever should, henceforth, in any manner, dare to
aid the operation of the said tyrannical act, they should be considered as ma-
lignant enemies to our charter rights, unfit for civil society, and undeserving
of the least regard or favor from their fellow countrymen.
2. That every one should do his utmost to discourage lawsuits, and like-
wise compromise disputes as much as possible.
3. That it be recommended to the honorable Jeremiah Powell, Esq., and
Jedediah Preble, Esq., constitutional councillors of this province, residing
in this county, that they should take their places at the board the ensuing
session as usual.
4. We cannot but approve of the recommendation given by the convention
of Suffolk county, to the several collectors of province taxes, not to pay one
farthing more into the province treasury, until the government of the prov-
ince is placed on a constitutional foundation, or until the Provincial Con-
gress shall order otherwise, and we recommend the same to the several col-
lectors in this county ; but we think it the duty of the several collectors of
county, town, and district taxes, to perfect their collections, and pay the
same into their several treasuries as soon as possible. And here we
think it proper to observe, that though we do not coincide in every in-
stance with our Suffblk brethren, which may be owing to a want of know-
ing all the circumstances of affiiirs, yet we highly aj)plaud their virtuous
zeal and determined resolution.
5. We recommend to every town in this county, charitably to contribute
to the relief of our sufl'ering brethren in our distressed metropolis.
CUMBKRl.ANl) rONVKNTION. 659
li. Lest oj)|)iessioii, wliicli iiiaUitli uwa \\ ise iiitii m.iil, blioiilil Imrry
some people into tiiiiiiilts and <lisoi(leis, wo would rccoirjineml, that every
iiidividiial in the county use liis licst endeavors to Hiippn;Sf?, at all tinier,
riots, niohs, and all licentiousness, and that our li-llow sultjects would con-
sider tlieniselves, as tlicy always are, in the presence of tlie great Uod, wlio
lovetli order, not confusion.
7. That when a general non-importation agreement takes place, we shall
look upon it to be the duty of every vender of merchandi/e, to sell hid
goods at the present rates ; and if any person shall exhorliitantly eidionce
the prices of his goods, we shall look upon him as an oppressor of his
country. And in order to prevent imposition in this respect, we recom-
mend that a committee be chosen in each town, to receive complaints
against any who may be to blame herein : and if he shall refuse to wait on
such committee, on notice given, or be found culpable in this respect, his
name shall be published in the several towns of the county, as undeserving
of the future custom of his countrymen.
8. That every one who has it in his power, would improve our breed of
sheep, and, as far as possible, increase their number ; and also encourage
the raising of tlax, and promote the manufactures of the countiy.
9. As the very extraordinary and alarming act for establishing the Ro-
man catholic religion, and French laws, in Canada, may introduce the
French or Indians into our frontier towns, we recommend that every town
and individual in this county, should be provided with a proper stock of
military stores, according to our province law, and that some patriotic mili-
tary officers be chosen in each town, to exercise their several companies,
and make them perfect in the military art.
10. Our general grievances being the subject of deliberation before the
Continental Congress, renders it inexpedient to consider them particularly ;
on their wisdom we have a great dependence, and we think it will be our
duty to lay aside every measure to which we have advised, that may be va-
riant from theirs, and pay a due regard to their result.
And now we think it proper to declare, that as we have been recounting
tlie hardshijjs we e£idure by the machinations of our enemies at home, we
cannot but gratefully acknowledge our obligation to those illustrious wor-
thies, our friends of the minority, who constantly oj)posed those wicked
measures, and would heartily wish, some great and good men would invent
and mark out some plan that will unite the parent state to these, its colo-
nies, and thereby prevent the effusion of christian blood.
Then, Voted, That every member of this convention be severally interro-
gated, whether he now has, or will hereafter, take any commission under
the present act of parliament, for regulating the government of this prov-
ince.
The members were accordingly interrogated, and each and every one
of them answered in the negative.
Voted, That the several committees which compose this convention, or
the major part of each, be, and hereby are, desired to interrogate the civil
660 CUMBERLAND CONVENTION.
officers, and other persons whom tiicy may think fit, in their respective
towns, whether they now have, or will hereafter take, any commission un-
der the aforesaid act.
Voted, Tiiat the whole proceedings of this convention be, by the clerk,
transmitted to the press, and also to the town clerks of the respective
towns in this county, as soon as may be.
Voted, That this convention be continued, and that the committee of Fal-
mouth, or the major part of them, be, and hereby are empowered, on any
occasion that in their opinion requires it, to notify a meeting of the dele-
gates thereof, at such time and place as they may think propei', setting
forth the occasion thereof
Voted, That the thanks of this convention be given to the Hon. Enoch
Freeman, Esq., for his faithful services as chairman.
SAMUEL FREEMAN, Clerk.
NARRATIVES
OK TIIK
EXCURSION O 1-' THE KING'S TROOPS
A 1M{ I I, I y , 1 7 7 .3 .
In Provincial Congress, Watertown, May 22, 1775.
Resolved, That the following narrative of tiie excursion and ravages of the
king's troops, under the command of General Gage, on the nineteenth of
April last, together with the depositions taken by order of the Congress, to
support the truth of it, be sent to the press for ijublication.
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 depositions 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 Ameri-
can subjects of the Uritish king in the field of Lexington. Early in the
morning of said day, a detachment of the forces under the connnand 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, commanded by Lieutenant Colonel Smith : The
inhabitants of Lexington and the other towns were about one hundi'ed, some
\vith and some without fire-arms, who had collected upon information that
the detachment had secretly marched from Boston 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 peace-
(1) This narrative reported by a committee of which Doct. Churcli was cliairman, and the depo-
sitions taken by the committee of which Mr. Gerry was first named, with those subsequently col-
lected, were printed, at Worcester, by Isaiah Thomas, in May, 1775.
662 EXCURSION OF THE KINGS TROOPS. [April 19,
able inhabitants having the same night been taken, held by force, and other-
wise 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 immediate-
ly to be put in execution against them. This small party of the inhabitants
were 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 extraordinaiT movement ; immediately on the approach
of Colonel 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
I'each of their fire. Colonel Smith, with the detachment, then proceeded to
Concord, where a part of this detachment again made the fiist fire upon
some of the inhabitants of Concord and the adjacent towns, who were col-
lected 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, find-
ing life and every thing dear and valuable at stake, assiuned their native val-
or and returned the fire, and the engagement on both sides began. Soon
after, the British troops retreated towards Charlestown, having first commit-
ted violence and waste on public and private property, and on then* 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
Charlestown, 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 bar-
barous 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.
7^ follomng depositions were taken and authenticated as soon as possible
after the action, to prove and elucidate the truth of facts relative thereto.
We, Solomon Brown, Jonathan Lormg, and Elijah Sanderson, all of lawful
age, and of Lexington, in the county of Middlesex and colony of the Massa-
chusetts Bay, in New England, do testify and declare, that on the evening of
the eighteenth of April, instant, being on the road between Lexington and
Concord, and all of us moimted on horses, we were, about ten of the clock,
1775.] EXCURSION OF Till: KING'S TROOPS. 0«>3
siiddnily siirprizcci l)y nine persons, wlioiii we took to l)c re;,Milar ofliccrs,
who rode up to us, niounlcd and armed, cacli liolding a pistol in liis hand,
and allcr piittinj,' pistols to our breasts, and seizing the i)ridles of our horses,
they swore, that if we stirred anoliier stej) we should he all dead men, upon
which we siinendercd ourselves. They detained us until two o'clock the
next morning, in wiiich time tliey scarciied and greatly abused us; having
first inquired about tlie magazine at Concord, whether any guards were
posted there, and whether the bridges were u|) ; and .«aid four or five regi-
ments of regulars would be in jtossetsiou of the stores soon ; they then
brought us back to Le.xington, cut the horses' bridles, and girths, turned them
loose, and then left us.
Solomon JJrow.n,
Jonathan Loring,
Elijah Sanderson.
Lexington, April 25th, 1/75.
Middlesex, ss. April 25th, 1775.
Jonathan Loring, Solomon Brown, and Elijah Sanderson, being duly cau-
tioned to testify the whole truth, made solemn oath to the truth of the above
deposition by them subscribed: before us,
William Read, \
JosiAH Johnson, I Justices of the Peace,
William Stickney, J
I, Elijah Sanderson, above named, do further testify and declare, that I
was on Lexington common the morning of the nineteenth of April, afore-
said, 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 compjmy, which did
not fire a gun before the regulais discharged on tliem ; eight of the Lexing-
ton company were killed, while they were dispersing, and at a considerable
distance from each other, and many wounded, and although a spectator, 1
narrowly escaped with my life.
Elijah Sanderson.
Lexington, April 25th, 1775.
Middlesex, ss. April 25th, 1775.
Elijah Sanderson, above named, being duly cautioned to testify the whole
truth, made solenui oath to the truth of the above deposition by him sub-
scribed: before us,
William Read, \
JosiAH Johnson, \ Justices of thr Peace.
W^ILLIAM StICKNET, }
664 EXCURSION OF THE KING'S TROOPS. [April 19,
I, Thomas Rice Willard, of lawful age, do testify and declare, that beiug
in the house of Daniel Harrington, of Lexington, on the nineteenth instant,
in the morning, about half an hour before sunrise, I looked out at the win-
dow of said house and saw, as I suppose, about four hundred regulars in one
body, coming up the road and marching toward tlie north part of the com-
mon back of the meeting-house of said Lexington : and as soon as said regu-
lars were against the east end of the meeting-house, the commanding officer
said somethhig, what I know not : but upon tliat, the regulars ran till they
came within about eight or nine rods of about an hundred of the militia of
Lexington, who were collected on said common, at which time the militia
of Lexington dispersed ; then the officei-s made an huzza, and the private
soldiers succeeded them ; directly after this, an officer rode before the regu-
lars, to the other side of the body, and hollowed after the militia of said Lex-
ington, and said "lay down your arms — damn you — why don't you lay down
your arms?" and that tl ere was not a gun fired till the militia of Lexington
were dispersed : and fm-ther saith not,
Thomas Rice Willard.
Middlesex, ss. April ^Sd, 1775.
The within named Thomas Rice Willard, personally appeared, and after
due caution to testify the whole truth, and nothing but the truth, made sol-
emn oath to the truth of the within deposition, by him subscribed : before us,
William Read, \
Jonathan Hastings, I Justices of the Peace.
Duncan Ingraham, j
Lexington, 25th of April, 1775.
Simon Winship, of Lexington, in the county of Middlesex, and province
of the Massachusetts Bay in New England, being of lawful age, testtfieth and
saith, that on the nineteenth of April, instant, about four o'clock in the morn-
ing, as he was passing the public road in said Lexington, peaceably and un-
armed, about two miles and a half distant 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 tlie 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 tlic 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 Capt. Parker and company, who were
partly collected on the place of parade, when said Winship observed an offi-
cer at the head of said troops, flourishing his sword, and with a loud voice
1775.J EXCURSION OF THE KING'S TIKJOPS. (J(J5
giviiii> tlu! word ftrv! wliicli was iiistaiitly lollowed liy u discliaige of urius
fVoiu siiiil ri'j;ular troops; mid said Winsliij) is j)osilivc, and in tlic most sol-
eiiiii iiiaiiiRT dc'claix'!!, that tlieie was no discliariic of arms on citlier side,
till the word lire was given by said officer as above.
SiMO.N WOSHIP.
Middlesex, ss. April 25tii, 1775.
Simon Winsliij), above named, ajipeared, and alter du(! caution to testily
the whole truth, and nothing but the truth, made solemn oath to the truth of
the above deposition, by him subscribed : before us,
William Read, )
T T ( Justices of tfie Peace.
JosiAH Johnson, ^ -'
Lexington, April 25lh, 1775.
I, John Parker, of lawful age, and commander of the militia in Lexington,
do testily and declare, that on the nineteenth instant, in the morning, about
one of the clock, being informed, that there were a number of the regular
officers riding up and down the road, stopping and insulting people as they
passed the road, and also informed that a number of the regular troops
were on their march from Boston, in order to take the province stores at
Concord, 1 ordered our militia to meet on the common in said Lexington, to
consult what to do, and concluded not to be discovered, nor meddle, or
make with said regular troops, if they should approach, unless they should
insult or molest us ; and upon their sudden approach, I immediately ordered
our militia to disperse and not to fire. Iimnediately, said troops made their
appearance, and rushing furiously on, lired upon and killed eiglit of our party,
without receiving any provocation thei-efor from us.
John Parker.
Middlesex, ss. April 25th, 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,
William Read, -^
JosHLA JoiKNSo.N, \ Justices of the Peace.
William Sticknev, j
Lexington, April 24th, 1775.
1, John Robbins, being of lawful age, do testify and say, that on the nine-
teenth instant, the company under the command of Captain John Parker,
being drawn up sometime before sunrise, on the green or common, and I
being in the front rank, there suddeidy appeai'ed a number of the king's
troops, about a thousand as I thought, at the distance of about sixty or sev-
84
C66 EXCURSION OF THE KING'S TROOPS. [April 19,
eiity yards from lis, huzzaing, and on a quick pace towards us, with three
officers in their front on horseback, and on full gallop towai'ds us ; the
foremost of which cried, " throw down your arms ! — ye villains ! — ye rebels !"
upon which, said company dispersing, the foremost of the three officers or-
dered their men saying, '■'■fire! — hy God!— fire .'" at which moment we receiv-
ed a very heavy and close fire from them ; at which instant, being wounded, I
fell, and several of our men were shot dead by me. Capt. Parker's men I
believe, had not then fired a gun : and further the deponent saith not,
John Robbkns.
Middlesex, ss. April 24th, 1775.
John Robbins, within named, appeared, and being duly cautioned to testi-
fy 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,
William Read, i
T 1 > Justices of the Peace.
JosiAH Johnson, ^ "^
We, Benjamin Tidd, of Lexington, and Joseph Abbot, of Lincoln, in the
county of Middlesex, and colony of the Massachusetts Bay, in New Eng-
land, of lawful age, do testify and declare, that on the morning of the nine-
teenth of April, instant, about five o'clock, being on Lexington common and
mounted on horses, we saw a body of regular 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 regu-
lars Avho were mounted on horses ; and then the said regulars fii-ed a volley
or two, before any guns were fired by the Lexington company. Our horses
immediately started and we rode off: and further say not,
Benjamin Tidd,
Joseph Abbott.
Lexington, April 25th, 1775.
Middlesex, ss. April 25th, 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 deposi-
tion, by them subso-ibed : before us,
W^illiam Read, ^
Josiah Johnson, \ Justices of the Peace.
William Sticknev, )
We, Nathaniel Mulliken, Phillip Russell, Moses Harrington, Jun., Thomas
and Daniel Harrington, William Grimer, William Tidd, Isaac Hastings, Jo-
nas Stone, Jun., James Wyman, Thaddeus Harrington, John Chandler,
1775.] EXCURSION OF Till: KI.N(/S I'KcmU'S.
iKi7
Joslum Reed, Jim., Jo.<!oi)li Sinioiids, I'iiincaH Sniiili, .lolui (Jliaii<ilrr, Jim.,
KcuIjlmi i.ock, Jot'l Vilr-s Natliaii Uccd, i^iimiii'l Ti«l<l, Jk'iijimiiii Lock,
'J'liomas \\ iiisliip, Siiiit'on Snow, Jolm Smilli, .Moses llai riiif:;loM, !{(!, Jo.-liiia
lircil, EluMK'/.or I'aiker, Jolm llaniiigtoii, liiiocli \\ illiiigloii, Jolm Jlo.siiicr,
Isaac Green, I'liineas Stearns, Isaac Duruiit, and Tiiomas Headley, Jim , all
of lawful age, and inliahitants of Lo.vington, in the county of IMiddlcse.v, and
colony of the IMassaclai.sctts Bay, in New Kngland, do testily and declare, that
on the nineteenth of April, insstanf, about one or two o'clock in the morning,
being inforined, that several otliccrs of the regulars, had, the evening hefbre,
been riding up and down the road, and had detained and insulted the in-
habitants i)assing the .same ; and al.so understandinf?, that a body of regulars
were marching from IJoston, towards Concord, with intent, as it was sup-
posed, 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 dis-
missed by oin- captain, John Parker, for the present, with orders to be ready
to attend at the beat of the drum. We further testify and declare, that
about tive o'clock in the morning, hearing our drum beat, we proceeded to-
wards the parade, and soon found, that a large body of troops were march-
ing 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 wei-e turned on the troops, we were fired on by them, and a num-
ber 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 Mulliken, Joel Viles,
Phillip Russell, Nathan Reeo,
Moses Harrington, Jun., Samuel Tidd,
Thomas Harrington,
Daniel Harrington,
William Grime r,
William Tidd.
Isaac Hastings,
Jonas Stone, Jun.,
James Wyman,
Thaddeus Harringto-n,
John Chandler,
Joshua Reed, Jun.,
Joseph Simonds,
Phineas S.mith,
John Chandler, Jun.,
Reuben Lock,
Lexington, April 25th, 1775.
Benjamin Lock,
Thomas Winship,
Simeon Snow,
John Smith,
Moses Harrington, Hd ,
Joshua Reed,
Ebenezer Parker,
John Harrington,
Enoch Willington,
John Hosmer,
Isaac Green,
Phineas Stearns,
Isaac Durant,
Thomas Headlf.y, Jun.
Middlesex, ss. April 25th, 1775.
Nathaniel Mulliken, Phillip Russell, Moses Harrington, Jun., Thomas
668 EXCURSION OF THE KING'S TROOPS. [April 19,
Harrington, J)aniel Harrington, William Grimer, William Tidd, Isaac Has-
tings, Jonas Stone, Jiin., James Wyman, Thaddeus Harrington, John Chand-
ler, 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 Willington, John Hosmer,
Isaac Green, Phineas Stearns, Isaac Durant, 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 sub-
scribed by them : before us,
AViLLiAM Reed, \
JosiAH Johnson, > Justices of the Peace.
William Stickney, )
We, Nathaniel Parkhurst, Jonas Parker, John Munroe, Jun., John Win-
ship, Solomon Peirce, John Muzzy, Abner Meads, John Bridge, Jun., Ebe-
nezer Bowman, William Munroe, 3d, Micah Hagar, Samuel Sanderson,
Samuel Hastings, and James Brown, of Lexington, in the county of Middle-
sex, and colony of the Massachusetts Bay, in New England, and all of law-
ful 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 pre-
ceding, and that some of the inhabitants as they were passing, had been in-
sulted 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 company in this town. After the company had collected we were or-
dered by Capt. John Parker, who commanded us, to disperse for the pre-
sent, and be ready to attend the beat of the drum, and accordingly the com-
pany 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 marching up to us, and some of our company were coming to the pa-
rade, 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 company on them ; they killed eight of our company and wound-
ed several, and continued their fire until we had all made our escape.
Nathaniel Parkhurst, John Bridge, Jun.,
Jonas Parker, Ebenezer Bowman,
John 3Iunroe, Jun., William Munroe, 3d.,
John Winship, Micah Hagar,
Solomon Peirce, Samuel Sanderson,
John Muzzy, Samuel Hastings,
Abner Meads, James Brown.
Lexington, 25th April, 1775.
1775.] EXCURSION OF THE KING'S TROOPS. GGU
JNIinnLESEX, ss. April 25Tir, 1775.
Natiinni(>l I'mkliiirst, Juiins Parker, John IMimrno, Jim., John WiiisJiip,
Solomon Poircc, Jolui IVIuzzy, Abner Meads, Joluj Bridffc, Jun , Ebcnezer
Bowman, WiNiam Munroe, ."Jd., iMicah najj;ar, Samnel Sanderson, Samuel
Ilastin<;s, and James IJrown, above named, bein<f <hdy cautioned, to testify
the whole truth, made solenui oath to tln' truili of the above deposition, by
them subscribed: l)efore us,
William Reap, \
JosiAii JouNso.N, \ Justices of the Peace.
William Stickney, j
I, Timothy Smith, of Lexington, in the county of INIiddlesex, and colony of
Massachusetts IJay, in New England, being of lawful age, do testify and de-
clare, tliat on tlie morning of the nineteenth of April, instant, being at Lex-
ington common, as a sjiectatoi', I saw a large body of regular troops, march-
ing up towards tlie Lexington company 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 ine, which put me
in imminent danger of losing my life ; I soon returned to the common, and
saw eight of the Lexington men, who were killed and lay bleeding at a con-
siderable distance from each other, and several were wounded, and further
saith not,
Timothy Smith.
Lexington, April 25th, 1775.
Middlesex, ss. April 25th, 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:
before us,
William Read, -i
JosiAH JoH-xsoN, ^ Justiccs of thc Peace.
William Stick>'ey
,i
We, Levi Mead and Levi Harrington, both of Lexington, in the county of
Middlesex, and colony of the Massachusetts Ray, in New England, and of
hiwfid age, do testify and declare, that on thc morning of the nineteenth of
April, being on Lexington common, as spectators, we saw a large body of
regular troops marching up towards the Lexington company, and some of
the regulars on horses, whom we took to be officers, fired a pistol or two on
the Lexington company, which was then dispersing ; these were the first
guns tliat were fired, and they were immediately Ibllowed by several volleys
from the regidars, by which eight men belonging to said company were
killed, and several w ounded.
Levi Mead,
Levi Harrington.
Lexington, April 25th, 1775.
670 EXCURSION OF THE KING'S TROOPS. [April 19,
Middlesex, ss. April 25th, 1775,
Levi Mead and Levi Harrington, above named, being duly cautioned to
testify the wliole truth, made solemn oath to the truth of the above deposi-
tion, by them subscribed : before us,
William Read, -v
JosiAH Johnson, I Justices of the Peace.
William Stickjney, J
Lexington, April 25th, 1775.
1, William Draper, of lawful age, and an inhabitant of Colrain, in the
county of Hampshire, and colony of the Massachusetts Bay, in New Eng-
land, do testify and declare, that being on the parade at said Lexington,
April nineteenth, instant, about half an hour before sunrise, the king's regular
troops appeared at the meeting-house of Lexington. Captain Parker's com-
pany, who were drawn up back of said meeting-house on the parade, turned
from said troops, making their escape by dis])ersing. In the mean time, the
regular troops made an huzza, and ran towards Captain Parker's company
who were dispersing, and immediately after the huzza was made, the com-
manding officer of said troops, as I took him to be, gave the command to the
troops, "Jire '.—fire ! — damn you, fire /" and immediately they fired, before any of
Captain Parker's company 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 sub-
scribed : before us,
William Read, \
JosiAH Johnson, > Justices of the Peace.
William Sticknet, )
Lexington, April 23d, 1775.
I, Thomas Fessenden, of lawful age, testify and declare, that being in a
pasture near the meeting-house, at said Lexington, on Wednesday last, at
about half an hour before simrise, I saw a number of regulai* troops pass
speedily by said meeting-house, on their way towards a company of militia
of said Lexington, who were asstnnbled to the number of about an hundred
in a company, at the distance of eighteen or twenty rods from said meeting-
house: and after they had passed by said house, I saw thi*ee ofiicers on
horseback advance to the front of said regidars, when one of them, being
within six rod of said militia, cried out, "disperse you rebels immediately;"
on wliich he brandished his sword over his head three times ; mean while,
the second officer, who was about two rods behind him, fired a pistol point-
177.-X1 KXCLllSION OF Till: KL\(i S 'J'K(X)1\S. (ill
eel at siiid inililiii, iiiul tlic* n'i;iil:irs kept liii//(iiii<; till lie liail iini^lied Itiaiul-
isliiii'; Ills sN^ord; and wlini lie liad lliii.s liiii>li('d l)raiidisliiii<z lii.s sword, lio
]><iiiiifd it d(>\Mi towurds said militia, and iiiiinediately uii wiiicli, tlie said
ri-^ulars tired u volley at suid militia, and then I ran oil' as tiist ui 1 could,
while lliey continued firing till I got out of their reach. I further testily,
tliat as soon as ever the ollieer cried "dispeise you rebels," the said compa-
ny of militia dispersed every way as fast as tliey coidd, and while they were
dispersing, the regulars kept liring at them iucessantly : and liirther saith
not,
Thomas Fessenden.
Middlesex, ss. April 23d, 1775.
The within named Thomas Fessenden a])peared, and after due caution to
testify the whole truth, and nothing but the truth, made solemn oath to the
truth of the witiiin deposition by him subscribed: before us,
William Read,
William Kead, i
T T } Justices of the Peace,
Josiah Joiinsok, ^ *'
Lincoln, April 23d, 1775.
I, John Bateman, belonging to the fifty-second regiment, commanded by
Colonel Jones, on Wednesday morning, on the nineteenth day of April in-
stant, 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 said
troops marched by; and I testify and declare, that I heard the word of com-
mand given to the troops to fire, and some of said troops did fire, and I saw
one of said small ])arty lie dead on the ground nigh said meeting-house ;
and I testily, that I never heard any of the inhabitants so much as fire one
gun on said troops.
JoH.v Batemax.
Middlesex, ss. April 23d, 1775.
The above named Jolin Bateman voluntarily, being previously cautioned
to relate nothing but the truth, made solemn oath to the deposition by hitn
subscribed : before us,
JOH.N CCMMINGS, ) j^^^^.^^^ ^j. ^j^^ p^^^^_
Duncan Ingraiiam, S
Lexington, April 23d, 1775.
We, John Hoar, John Whitehead, Abraham Garfield, Benjamin Munroe,
Isaac Parks, William llosmer, John Adams, and Gregory Stone, all of Lin-
coln, in the comity 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 mai'ch to the said town of Concord, who
had killed six men at the town of Lexington. About an hour afterwai'ds,
672 EXCURSION OF THE KING'S TROOPS. [April 19,
we saw them approacliing, to tlie number, as we appi-ehended, of about
twelve hundred ; on wliicli, we retreated to a hill 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 moving towards the north
bridge, about one mile from the said Concord meeting-house. We then imme-
diately went befoi-e 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, ob-
serving our approach, marched back over the bridge, and then took up some
of the planks. 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 ofiicers not to fire till we were fired
upon, we fii-ed upon the regulars, and they retreated. On their retreat
through this town, and Lexington, to Charlestown, they ravaged and de-
stroyed private property, and burned three houses, one barn, and one shop.
John Hoar, Isaac Parks,
John Whitehead, William Hosmer,
Abraham Garfield, John Adams,
Benjamin Munroe, Gregory Stone.
Middlesex, ss. April 23d, 1775.
The within named John Hoar, John Whitehead, Abraham Garfield, Ben-
jamin Munroe, Isaac Parks, William Hosmer, John Adams, and Gregoiy
Stone, appeared, and made oath solemnly to the truth oi" the above deposi-
tion : before us,
William Read, |
John Cummings, j .. »., „
' } Justices of the Peace.
Jonathan Hastings,
Duncan Ingraham, J
Lexington, April 23d, 1775.
We, Nathan Barrett, captain; Jonathan Farrer, Joseph Butler and Francis
Wheeler, lieutenants ; John Barrett, ensign ; John Brown, Silas Walker,
Ephraim Melvin, Nathan Buttrick, Stei)hen Hosmer, Jr., Samuel Barrett,
Thomas Jones, Joseph Chandler, Peter Wheeler, Nathan Pierce, and Ed-
ward Richai-dson, all of Concord, in the county of Middlesex, in the prov-
ince of the Massachusetts Bay, of lawful age, testify and declare, that on
Wednesday, the nineteenth instant, about an hour after sunrise, we assem-
bled on a hill near the meeting-house in Concord aforesaid, in consequence
of information that a number of regular troops had killed six of our coun-
trymen at Lexington, and were on their march to said Concord : and about
1775] KXCUllSION OF THE KLNCi S TlKJOl'S. 073
an liour nllcr we saw tlii'iii a|t|in)acliiii^', to the luiiiilicr, as wo iinagiiio, of
aliout twelve liiiiidi'od ; on which, wc retreated to a iiill about eighty rods
back, and the aforesaid troops then took possession of tlic hill where wc
were first posted. Presently aller this wc saw them niovin;r towards the
north bridge, about one njilc from said mccting-lionse ; we then inuncdiatc-
Jy went belbre them, and passed the bridge just Ijcfore a |)arty of them, to
the number of about two hiuidred, arrived. They there lelt about one iialf
of those two hundred at the bridge, and i)roceeded w ith tiie rest towards
Colonel J5arrctt's, about two miles from the said bridge. We then, seeing
several fires in the town, thought our iiouses were in danger, and immedi-
ately marched back towards said bridge ; and the troops wiio were stationed
tliere, observing our approacii, marched back over the bridge, and then look
uj) some of the ]ilanUs. We then hastened our steps towards the bridge,
and when we luul got near the briilgc, 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 om- commanding officers not to
fire till we were fired u])on, we fired upon the regulars, and they retreated.
At Concord, and on their retreat through Lexington, they plundered many
houses, burnt three at Lexington, together with a shop and a barn, and com-
mitted damage, more or less, to almost every house tiom Concord to Cliarles-
town.
Natuan Uarrett, Nathan Buttrick,
Jonathan Farrer, Stki'hen Hosmer,
Joseph Butler, Samuel Barrett,
Francis Wheeler, Thomas Jones,
John Barrett, Joseph Chandler,
John Brown, Peter Wheeler,
Silas Walker, Nathan Peirce,
Epuraiji Melvin, Edward Richardson.
Lexington, April 2.3d, 1775.
We, Joseph Butler and Ephraim Melvin, <lo testify and declare, that when
the regular troops filed upon om* people at the north bridge, in Concord, as
related in the foregoing depositions, they shot one, and wc believe two of
our people, before we fu-ed a suigle gun at them.
Joseph Butler,
Ephraim Melvin.
Middlesex, ss. April 23d, 1775.
The within named Nathan Barrett, Jonathan Farrer, Joseph Butler, Fran-
cis Wheeler, Joim Hnrrett, John Brouii, Silas Walker, Ephraim i^lelvin,
Nathan Buitrick, Stopiun Hosmer, Samuel Barrett, Thomas Jones, Joseph
Chandler, Peter Wheeler, Nathan Peirce, and Edward Richardson, appear-
ed, and made solemn oath to the truth of the above depositions by them
subscribed: before us, Jonathan Hastings, \
John Cummings, >^ Justices of the Peace.
Duncan Ingraham, j
85
674 EXCURSION OF THE KING'S TROOPS, [April 19,
Concord, April 22d, 1775.
I, Timothy Minot, Jr., of Concord, on the nineteenth day of this instant
April, after I had heard of the regular troops firing upon the Lexington
men, and fearing that liostilities miglit be conunilted at Concord, thought it
my incumbent duty to seciu-e my family. After I had secured my family,
sometime after that, returning towards my ova\ dwelling, and finding that
the bridge on the northern part of said Concord was guarded by regular
troojis, being a spectator of what had hai)pened at said bridge, 1 declare tliat
the regular trooj)s stationed on the bridge, after they saw the men that were
collected on the westerly side of said bridge marched towards said bridge,
then the troops returned towards the easterly side of said bi'idge, and form-
ed themselves, as 1 thought for a 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 Minot, Jr.
Middlesex, ss. April 23d, 1775.
Doct. Timothy Minot, Jr. personally appeared, and after due caution to
testify the truth, and nothing but the truth, made solemn oath to the ti'uth
of the above deposition by him subscribed: before us,
William Read,
Jonathan Hastings,
T /-. > Justices of the Peace.
John Cummings, ' "^
Duncan Ingraham,
Lexington, April 23d, 1775.
I, James Barrett, of Concord, colonel of a regiment of militia in the
county of ftliddlesex, do testify and say, that on Wednesday morning last,
about day break, I was informed of the approach of a number of the regu-
lar troops to the towni of Concord, where wei'e some magazines belonging to
this i)rovince : when there were assembled some of the militia of this and
the neighboring towns, then 1 ordered them to march to the north bridge,
so called, which they had passed, and were taking up. 1 ordered said mili-
tia to inarch 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 Con-
cord. My detachment tlien returned the fire, which killed and wounded
several of the king's troojis.
James Barrett.
Middlesex, ss. April 23d, 1775.
The above named James Barrett personally appeared, and after due cau-
tion to testify the whole truth, and nothing but the truth, made solemn oath
to tiie truth of the above deposition by him subscribed: before us,
William Read, ■\
Jonathan Hastings, Wy^ficea of the Peace.
Duncan Ingraham, J
177",.] EXCURSION OF Till: KING'S TROOPS. 075
Lcxiii^Moii, April 23(1, 1775.
We, IJradhury llobiiison, Samuel Si>iinj,', Tliaddeus iianciult, all of (L'on-
cord, and James Adams, of Lincoln, all in the county of Middlesex, all of
lawful ago, do testify and say, that on Wednesday morninif last, near ten of
the clock, we saw near one iiundred of regular tronjjs, being in the town
of Concord, at the north bridge in said town, so ealled, and iiaving passed
the same they were taking up said bridge, when about three hundred of
our militia were advancing towards said bridge, in order to pass said bridge,
wlien, wiiliout saying any thing to us, they discharged a number of guns
on us, which killed two men dead on the spot, and wounded several oti)crs,
when we returned the fire on them, wiiich killed two of them, and wound-
ed sevcrjd ; which was the beginning of hostilities in the town of Concord.
Bradbury Robinson,
Samuel Spring,
Thaddeus Bancroft.
Middlesex, ss. April 23d, 1775.
The within named Bradbury Robiiison, Samuel Spring, Thaddeus Ban-
croft and James Adams, made solemn oath to the truth of the within depo-
sition by them subscribed : before us,
William Read, ^
William Stickney, > Justices of the Peace.
Jonathan Hastings, )
Concord, April 23d, 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 regiment of the regular troops stationed iu Boston, to prepare
and march : to which order I attended, and marched to Concord, where I
was ordered by an officer, with about one hundred men to guard a certain
bridge there. While attending that service, a number of people came
along, in order, as I supposed, to cross said bridge, at which time a number
of regular troops first fu-ed upon them.
James Marr.
Middlesex, ss. April 23d, 1775.
The above named James JMarr 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, ^
in c Justices of the Peace.
Jonas Dix, ) •'
I, Edward Thornton Gould, of his majesty's own regiment of foot, being
of lawful age, do testify and declare, that on the evening of the eighteenth
instant, under the order of General Gage, I embarked with the liglit infan-
try and grenadiers of the line, commanded by Colonel Smith, and landed
676 EXCURSION OF THE KING'S TROOPS. [April 19,
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])roach, they dis-
persed, and soon after firing began, but which party fired first I cannot ex-
actly say, as our troops rushed on, shouting and huzzaing, previous to the
filing, which was continued by our troops so long as any of the provincials
were to be seen. From thence we mai'ched to Concord. On a hill near
the entrance of the town, we saw another body of the provincials assem-
bled. 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 infiintry were ordered down to take possession of the bridge which
the provincials retreated over. The comjiany I commanded was one of the
three comjjanies of the above detachment, and 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 provincials came down upon us ; upon which we engaged and
gave the first fire. This was the first engagement after the one at Lexing-
ton. A continued filing 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.
Edward Thornton Gould.
Medford, April 20th, 1775.
Province of the Massachusetts Bay,
Middlesex County, April 25th, 1775.
Lieutenant Edward Thornton Gould, aforenamed, personally made oath
to the truth of the foregoing declaration, by him subscribed : before us,
Thaddeus Mason, ^
JosiAH Johnson, V Justices of the Peace.
Simon Tufts. )
Province of the Massachusetts Bay.
ClIARLESTOWN, SS.
1, Nathaniel Gorham, Notary and Tabellion Public, by lawful authority,
duly admitted and sworn; hereby certify to all whom it doth or may con-
cern, that Thaddeus Mason, Josiah Johnson, and Simon Tufts, Esq'rs, are
three of his majesty's justices of the peace, quorum unus, for the county of
Middlesex, and that full faith and credit is and ought to be given to their
ti'ansactions as such, both in court and out. 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.
1775] EXCURSION OF THE KING S TROOPS. 077
N. B. A certificate was made out under the sijniatiirc oftlie notary jiidi-
lic, that all the otiicr justices who adiiiiiiisten-d tin; o.itiis to the t^e\eral do
jMineiits, were liis majesty's justices of the peace, in liie counties where such
cerliticates were made, and were le^MJiy ai»|)ointed to that olHce, and that
full laitli and credit is and ought to he given to tiieir transactions.
A ])nper having been printed in JJoston, representing, that one of the
British troops killeil at tlic hridge at Concord, was scaljjcd, and the ears cut
off from the head, supposed to be done iu order to dishonor the Massachu-
setts jjcojilc, and to make them appear to be savage and barbarous, the fol-
lowing deposition was taken that the truth might be known.
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 Con-
cord, on the nineteenth day of April, 1775, where the action first began, and
that neither of those persons were scalped, nor their eai's cut off, as has
been represented.
Zachariah Brown,
Thomas Davis, Jon.
Concord, May 11th, 1775.
Zachariah Brown, Thomas Davis, Jun., personally appeared before me,
and made oath to the above declaration.
Duncan Ingraham, Justice of the Peace,
Hamiah 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 retiu-n of the king's troops from Concord, divers of them entered
our house, by bursting open tlie 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, not having been to my chamber door from my be-
ing delivered in child-birth to that time. One of said soldiers immediately
opened my curtains with his bayonet fixed, pointing the same to my breast.
I immediately cried out, "for the Lord's sake do not kill me ;" he replied,
" damn you." One that stood near said, " we w ill not hurt the woman, if
she will go out of the house, but we w ill surely bui-n it." 1 immediately
ai'ose, 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 m the utmost danger of being utterly consumed.
Hannah Adams.
678 EXCURSION OF THE KING'S TROOPS. [April 19,
Middlesex, ss. Cambridge, Second Precinct, 16th Mat, 1775.
Hannah Adams, the subscriber of the above deposition, personally ap-
peared, and made oath to the truth of the same : before me,
Jonathan Hastings, Justice of the Peace.
Cambridge, May 19th, 1775.
We, Benjamin Cooper and Rachel Cooper, both of Cambridge, aforesaid,
of lawful age, testify and say, that in the afternoon of the nineteenth day of
April h\st, the king's i-egular troops under the command of General Gage,
upon their return from the blood and slaughter which they had made at
Lexington and Concord, fired more than a hundred bullets into the house
where we dwelt, through doors, windows, &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 gentlemen were,
immediately, most barbarously and inhumanly murdered by them : being
stabbed through in many places, their heads mauled, skulls broke, and their
brains dashed out on the floor and walls of the house ; and further say not,
Benjamin Cooper,
Kachel Cooper.
Middlesex, ss, May 10th, 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.
The follovnng is a list of those provincials ivho tvere killed, ivounded, and mis-
sing in the action of the nineteenth of .fipril, 1775, and the towns to ivhich they
respectively belonged : including all that ivere lost on that day.
Cambridge. — Killed: William Marcy, Moses Richaidson, John Hicks, Ja-
son Russell, Jabish Wyman, Jason Winship. Wounded : Capt. Samuel Whit-
temorc. Missiiig: Samuel Frost, Seth Russell.
Charlestown. — Killed: James Miller, and a son of Captain Wilham
Barber.
Watertown. — Killed: Josepli Cooledge.
Sddbury. — Killed: Deacon Josiah Ilaynes, Asahel Reed. Wounded:
Joshua Haynes, Jun.
Acton. — Killed : Capt. Isaac Davis, Abner Hosmer, James Hayward.
Bedford. — Killed: Capt. Jonathan Wilson. Wounded: .Job Lane.
Woburn. — Killed: Asa Parker, Daniel Thomson. Wounded: George
Read, Jacob Bacon.
1775] EXCURSION OF THE KING'S TROOPS. ijVj
Mkufouu. — Killed: llciiry Putnuni, William roily.
Nkwton. — ff'uunded : Nouli Wiswull.
Lexington — KitUd : Jonas I'urktr, Itolurt JMuiiioc-, Jcdcdiali Miitiroe,
Joliii Ka))iioii(l, t^aimici Iladlcy, Joiialliaii llaniiif:loii, Jon.. J^.iac Muzzy,
Caluli llaniiijitoii, Nalliaiiiel \\\iiiaii, Jolm Jirown. ff oimdtd : I'raiicis
Brown, John Kobbins, iSoloMion I'uirce, John Tidil, Josojili Comic, Ebene-
zer Munroe, Jun , Thomas VVinsliip, Nutliuniel Farmer, Prince, a negro.
Bii.LERiCA — ffoHiidid : Joiin Nichols, Timoiliy IJianciiard.
CuELMSKOKD. — ffouiidcd : Deacon Aaron Chandjcrlain, Capt. Oliver Bar-
ron.
CoNCOKu. — f founded : Abel Prescott, Jun., Capt. Chiules xMiles, Capt. Na-
than Barrett.
Frami.ngham. — Jf'ounded : Daniel Ilenicnvvay.
Stoav. — fyoundtd: Daniel Conant.
Dediiam. — Killed: Eiias Haven, ffoimded : Israel Everett.
Needham. — Killtd: Lieut. John Bacon, Seijeant Elisha Mills, Amos Mills,
Nathaniel Chamberlain, Jonathan Parker, ff'owidtd : Capt. Eleazer Kings-
bury, and a son of Doct. Tolman.
lioxBURY. — Missing: Elijah Seaver.
Brookline. — Killed: Isaac Gardner, Esq.
Salem. — Killed : Benjamin Peirce.
Danvers. — Killed: Henry Jacobs, Samuel Cook, Ebenezer Goldthvpait,
George Southwick, Benjamin Deland, Jun., Jothain Webb, Perly Putnam.
Wounded: Nathan Putnam, Dennis Wallis. Missing : Joseph Bell.
Beverly. — Killed: Mr. Kiuuyni. IVoimded : Nathaniel Cleaves, Samuel
Woodbury, William Dodge.
Lynn. — Killed : Abeduego Ramsdell, Daniel Townsend, William Flynt,
Thomas Hadley. Wounded: Joshua Felt, Timothy Munroe. Missing: Josi-
ali Breed.
BRITISH OFFICIAL ACCOUNT.
A CIRCUMSTANTIAL ACCOCxNT OF AN ATTACK THAT HAPPENED ON THE
NINETEENTH OF APRIL, 1775, ON HIS MAJESTY's TROOPS, BY A NUMBER
OF THE PEOPLE OF THE PROVINCE OF MASSACHUSETTS BaY. DrAWN
UP BY ORDER OF HiS EXCELLENCY GOVERNOR GaGE, AND ENCLOSED
IN A LETTER TO GOVERNOR TrUMBULL, OF CONNECTICUT.
On Tuesday, the eighteenth April, about half past ten at night. Lieuten-
ant Colonel Smith, of the 10th regiment, embaiked from the common, at
680 EXCURSION OF THE KING'S TROOPS. [April 19,
Boston, with the grenadiers and light infantry of the troops there ; and land-
ed on the opposite side ; from whence he began his march towards Con-
cord, where he was ordered to destroy a magazine of military stores, depos-
ited tliere for the use of an army to be assembled, in order to act against his
majesty and his government. The colonel called his officers together, and
gave orders, that the troops should not fire, unless fired upon ; and alter
marching a few miles, detajcbed six companies of light infantrj', under the
command of Major Pitcairn, to take posssssion of two biidges, on the other
side of Concord. Soon after, they heard many signal guns, and the ringing
of alarm bells repeatedly ; which convinced them, that the countiy was
rising to oppose them, and that it was a preconcerted scheme to oppose the
king's troops whenever there should be a favorable opportunity for it.
About three o'clock the next morning, the troops being advanced withiu
two miles of Lexington, intelligence Avas 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 as-
sembled, had presented his musket and attempted to shoot them, but the
piece flashed in the pan ; on tliis, the major gave diiectious to the troops to
move forwai-d, but on no account to fire, nor even attempt it, without orders.
When they arrived at the end of the village, they obsened about tv^ hun-
dred armed men, drawn up on a green, and when the troops came within
one hundred yards of them, they began to file oflT towards some stone walls
on their right flank. The light infantry observing this, ran after them; the
major instantly called to the soldiers not to fire, but to surround and disarm
them. Some of them, Avho had jumped over a wall, then fii-ed fom* or five
shots at the troops; wounded a man of the 10th regiment, and the major's
horse in two places, and at the same time several shots were fii'ed 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 coimtry peo-
ple, but were silenced as soon as the authority of then' officers could make
them.
After this, Colonel Smith marched up with the remainder of the detach-
ment, and the whole body proceeded to Concord, where they arrived about
nine o'clock, without any thing further happening ; but vast numbers of
armed j)eople were seen assembling on all the heights. While Colonel
Smith with the grenadiers and part of the light infantry remained at Con-
cord, to search for cannon, &c. there, he detached Captain Parsons with six
light comi)anies, to secure a bridge at some distance from Concord, and to
proceed from thence to cei-tain houses where it was supposed there were
cannon and ammiuiition. Caj)tain 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 43d regiment, and with the remain-
der went and destroyed some cannon, wheels, powder, and ball. The peo-
ple still continued increasing on the heights, and in about an hour after, a
large body of them began to move towai'ds the bridge ; the light companies
177."..] EXCURSION OF THE KING'S TROOPS. GSl
of the 4th and lOtli tlien desccndrd niid |f)iiicd C.-iiitain I..'iuiic. The |)<<»-
plo coiitimicd to lulvnuco in gn-ut iiiiiidjois, and lircd ii|ii>ii tlic king's troops,
killfti tlirf«> rniMi, wounded four otliccrs, onr SLTgeunt,und four private nwu;
upon which, after returning tlie lire, Captain Laurie and his officers, tliouglit
it prudent to retreat towards the main hody at Concord, and were soon
joined by two coini»anies of grenadiers. When Captain Parsons returned
■with tile tin-ee companies over llie liridge, they oi)served three sohliers on
the ground, one of tiiem scalped, his iiead much mangled and his ears cut
off, tjjougli not (piite dead ;i a sight whicii strncit tlie sohliers with horror.
Captain Parsons marched on and joined the main body, who were only
waiting for his coming up to march back to Boston. Colonel Smith had exe-
cuted his orders witliout opjjosition, by destroying ail the military stores he
could find : both the colonel and Major Piteairn, having taken all |)OSsible
pains to convince the iidiabitants that no injury was intended them, and
that, if tliey opened their doors when required, to search for sjiid stores, not
the slightest mischief should be done ; neither had any of the people the least
occiuiion to complain ; l)ut they were sulky, and one of them even struck
Major Piteairn. 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 re-
ceived a heavy fire, 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 Lexington, ordered out under the command of
Lord Percy, to support them : advices having been received, about seven
o'clock next morning, that signals had been made, and expresses gone out
to alarm the counti-y, and that the people were rising to attack the troops
under Colonel Smith. U|)on the firing of tlie field i)icces, the peojjle's fire
was, for a while, silenced ; but, as they continued to increase greatly in num-
bers, they fired again as before, from ail places where they could find cover,
upon tlie 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 jiart of them lia\ ing been under arms all night, and
made a march of upwards of forty miles, before they arrived at Cbarlestown,
from whence they were ferried over to Boston.
The troops had above fifty killed, and many more wounded. Repoits are
various alwiit the loss sustained by the countrj' people ; some make it very
considerable ; others not so much.
Thus this unfortunate affair has happened, through the rashness and im-
prudence of a few people, who began firing on tlie troops at Lexington.
(1) Sec lli>' Journal of Congress, May 9, 1775, niitc page 009 ; and the doposilioiia of Zachariah
Brown, and Thomas Davis, Jan., ante page 677.
8G
682 EXCURSION OF THE KING'S TROOPS. [April 19,
INTERCEPTED LETTERS.
The following extracts of letters, written by British officers and soldiei'S
in Boston, and intercepted, relating to the events of the 19th of April, 1775,
were communicated to the Provincial Congress.^
Boston, April 28, 1775.
I am well, all but a wound I received through the leg by a ball from one
of the Bostonians. At the time I wrote you from Quebec, T had the strong-
est assurance of going home, but the laying the tax on the New England
people caused lis to be ordered for Boston, where we remained in peace
with the inhabitants, till, on the night of the 18th of April, twenty-one com-
panies of grenadiers and light infantry were ordered into the countiy, about
eighteen miles ; where, between four and five o'clock in the morning, we
met an incredible number of the people of the country in arms against us.
Col. Smith, of the 10th regiment, ordered us to rush on them with our bayo-
nets fixed ; at which time, some of the peasants fired upon us, and our men
returning the fire, the engagement began ; they did not fight us like a regu-
lar army, only like savages, behind trees and stone walls, and out of the
woods and houses, whei'e, 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, aud 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 Concord, 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 are
not brought up in the military way as ourselves : we were surrounded always
in the w oods ; the firing was very hot on both sides ; about two in the after-
noon the second brigade came up, which were lour regiments and part of
the artillery ; wliich were of" no use to us, as the enemy were in the woods;
and when we found they fired from houses, Ave set them on fire, and they
ran to the w oods. We were obliged to letreat to Boston again, over Charles
river, our ammunition being all fired away. We had one hundred and fifty
wounded and killed, and some taken prisoners. We were forced to leave
some behind, who were wounded. We got back to Boston about two
o'clock next morning; aud they tliat were able to walk were forced to
mount guard and lie in the field. I never broke my fast for forty-eight
hours, for we carried no provisions, and thought to be back next morning.
(1) See the Journal of May I, ante page 173. Neither the address nor signature of any letter has
been preserved.
1775.] EXCURSION OF TIIK KINGS TROOPS. 0)83
I lijul tny liiit shot oil" my ImjkI lliioc times, two balls tlin)ii;.'li my <'<>iit, imil
my Imyonct canitil away liy my side, and near l)(;iii^' killtil. Tin- jHople of
IJostoii ail- in f.'ieat troultio, Cor General (ia;,'o will not let the lown'a people
go out. Direct for me to Cliatliain's division of marines.
IJosTON, April 30, 1775.
Before this reaches yon, you may hear that our regiment has been en-
gaged with the provinciaKs. 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 filleen hundred, inarched toreenforce
the grenadiers and light infantry : we joined about one o'clock, and found
them not engaged, which they had been eight hours before; for we had two
pieces of camion, which made us march very 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 ; for we did 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 but thirty-six rounds, whicii 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 number 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 cliildrcn ; for there was a number of women and
children burnt in their houses. Our regiment liad five killed and thirty -one
wounded, particularly Col. Bernard in the thigh, which all the regiment is
sorry for. 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 a few days wc expect a good many more troops from England, and
then we shall surely burn the whole country before us if they do not sub-
mit, which I do not imagine they will do, for they are an obstinate set of
peofjle. They have formed an army, and keep guard close to our works, so
that our sentries can talk together at ease. We w ere engaged from six to six.
The w hole country are in arms against us, and they are headed by two of
the generals that headed our army last w ar ; their names arc Black and Put-
nam. 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
the creek and destroy them, which they have done, many of them. There
is no market in Boston: the inhabitants are all starving: the soldiers live on
Stilt provisions, and the officers arc 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 cutting 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 w hat have deserted, we have not three hun-
dred men, and duty is so hard that we come off guard m the morning and
mount picket at night.
684 EXCURSION OF THE KING'S TROOPS. [April 19,
Boston, April 25, 1775.
The rebels, when we came to Concord, burnt then- stores, fired upon the
king's troops, and a smart engagement ensued. About two o'clock, our
brigade came up to them, when we engaged, and continued fighting and
retreating towards Boston. The rebels were monstrous numerous, and sur-
rounded us on every side ; when they came up we gave them a smart fire,
but tliey never would engage us properly. We killed some hundreds and
burnt some of their houses. I received a wound in my head. The troops
are in Boston, and surrounded on the land side by the rebels, who are very
numerous, and ftdly determined to lose their lives and fortunes, rather than
be taxed by England. We had thirty-four killed and wounded. I suppose
the king's troops, lost in all about one hundred and sixty. In case they should
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 En-
gland, 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.
The 19th of April the engagement happened, and my husband was
wounded and taken prisoner ; but they use him well, and I am striving 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. Are expecting more troops every day. My hus-
band 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 a very troublesome time ; for we are ex-
pecting the town to be burnt down every day, and I believe we are sold, and I
hear my husband's leg is broke, and my heart is almost broken.
RAVAGES OF THE BRITISH TROOPS.
Statements of the losses sustained by the inhabitants from the
RAVAGES OF THE BrITISH TROOPS, ApRIL 19, 1775.
The committee appointed to estimate the damages done at Cambridge,
Lexington, and Concord, by the king's troops, on the nineteenth of April,
1775, have attended that duty, and beg leave to report :
177;>.] KXCUIISION OF TIIK KING'S TROOPS. Cfi^
That tli<> (Icstnirtiiin iiinde liy fire and roMjcry on said day, \>y said troopH,
18 as I'ullows, viz. :
Tlio damaircs to tlin buildings in Cainbridgo, estimatfd according to the
best skill and jiidgniciit of your coiuniittce, after viewing the sunif, amount
to ....... . £7G 5 t!
The value of tlie goods and chattels that were destroyed, or taken out of
the houses, or near tlie same, by the estimation of those persons who left
tlic same, according to tlieir several accounts exhibited on oath, and annex-
ed, amounts to . . . . • . . £10^0 6 3
The value of the goods and ciiattels that were destroyed, or taken out of
the said houses, or near tlie same, by the estimation of those persons who
left the same, by their several accounts exhibited, who were not sworn, by
reason of some being absent, or some other inconvenience that attended the
same, amoimts to ..... . £7ii G 10
The damage done to the meeting-house and school-house in the north-
west precinct in said Cambridge, as estimated by your committee, amounts
to £0 13 4
The vessels, linen, and cash, belonging to tiie church of said precinct,
taken out of the house of Joseph Adams, deacon of said church, as by his
account, exhibited on oath, amount to . . . £16 IG 8
The whole losses suffered m Cambridge, amount to . £1202 8 7
The damages sustained in Lexington, are as follow, viz. :
The buildings destroyed by fire, with the cash, utensils, and moveables,
either burnt in the same, or cai-ried away, estimated by the owners of the
property, as by their accounts, exhibited on oath, amount to £891 8 6
The damages to other buildings in said town, estimated as were those in
Cambridge, amount to . . . . . . £32 18 7
Damages sustained from the robberies of said troops, by sundry inhabi-
tants, as by their several accounts on oath, . . . £7C0 18 2
Damages sustained by other inhabitants, as by their several accounts ex-
hibited, but not on oath, for the reason before mentioned, amount to
the sum of ...... . £74 4 2
Damages to the meeting-house in said tow'n, . . £1 12 0
The whole amount in Lexington, .... £1761 1 15
The damages sustained in Concord, were as follow, viz. :
The damages to the buildings, estimated as above, are . £2 12 0
The damages sustained by sundry iidiabitants, estimated in manner afore-
said, under oatli, amount to . . . . . £209 IG 10
The damages to other inhabitants, not under oath, for reasons before
mentioned, amomit to . . . . . . £59 1 9
686 EXCURSION OF THE KING'S TROOPS. [April 19,
The damage to sundry door locks broke in his majesty's jail in said town,
by account exiiibited, on oath, by the under keeper of said jail, £-i 6 0
The whole amount in Concord, .... ^''^'4 16 7
Abraham Fuller,
IcHABOD Goodwin,
Oliver Whitney,
Committee.
ACCOUNTS OF DAMAGES.
The original accounts of the injuries done to individuals, not having been
preserved on the files, the following returns were made, by order of the
Legislature, in 1783.
Joseph Loring.
An account of the real and personal estate belonging to Joseph Loring,
of Lexington, destroyed and carried off by the British troops in their rava-
ges in said town, on the nineteenth of April, 1775, viz. :
A large mansion-house, and a barn seventy feet long, and a
corn-house, all burnt, ...... £350 0 0
Household goods and furniture, viz : eight good feather beds
and bedding ; a large quantity of pewter and brass ware; three
cases of drawers ; two mahogany tables ; with the furnitui-e of
eight rooms, ....... 230 0 0
All the wearing apparel of my family, consisting of nine per-
sons, GO 0 0
All my husbandry tools and utensils, with a cider mill and
press, with about five tons of hay, and two calves, . . 72 0 0
About two himdred rods of stone Avail thrown down, . . 500
£3 in specie, . . . . . . .300
£720 0 0
N. B. The above mentioned buildings were the first that were destroyed
in the town, and near the ground where the brigade commanded by Lord
Percy met the detachment retreating under Lt. Col. Smith. It does not
appear that any of the militia were in or near these buildings, neither could
they, in any way, cither expose or retard the British troops in their operations :
therefore, the destruction must be considered as brutal, barbarous, and
wanton.
Joseph Loring.
Jonathan Harrington.
Account of things 1 lost on the nineteenth of April, 1775, by the British
troops.
One eight day clock, carried off, almost new, . . . £15 0 0
1775.] EXCURSION OF THE KINCJ S TROOPS.
087
One fine India dark gown, ....
One striped English cotton gown, .
Two dozi-na of cotton and lineu and two sheets, .
Six shirts, si.\ shil\8, to the value of
One lawn apron ; one do. cambric ; one do. linen,
Four new check a])rons, ....
One dozen of handkerchieCs, pari check, part printed.
One bed blanket, .....
Fifteen pairs stockings, part worsted, i)art thread and yarn.
Six large diaper table cloths.
One dozen fnie diaper cloths.
One dozen cotten linen do.
One dozen of napkins, diaper,
One scarlet riding hood, ....
One pair of new boots and two ])airs of shoes.
One new razee great coat; one do. blue, .
Tw o ne\v beaver hats, ....
Five yards of cotton and linen cloth,
A number of women's caps, . . .
One muff and tippet, ....
Three looking glasses, all large.
Two large moose skins, ....
Three cartridge boxes ; three bridles and straps, all new,
Three and a half yards of ratteen, .
Two cans, one trimmed with silver, one do. pinchbeck.
One dozen of stone plates, mugs, bowls, tea pots, &c..
Two good razors ; a number of books ; Latin history, &C.,
One dozen of spoons, jjorringers, &c., to the value of
One damask cloth. New buckskin breeches.
Damage to my house, nmety-four squares of glass.
Forty-two wooden sashes broke to pieces.
Two desks broke, clock, cans, &lc.,
£103 7 0
The above is a true copy from the original that was taken in and sworn to
by Major Fuller and others, with some additional things.
Jo.vATUAN Harrington.
£2
8 0
1
10 0
10
0 0
7
0 0
a
10 0
1
10 0
1
10 0
0
18 0
4
0 0
4
10 0
2
8 0
1
4 0
1
10 0
2
0 0
2
4 0
G
0 0
4
0 0
0
14 0
1
10 0
0
12 0
6
0 0
4
0 0
3
0 0
1
1.5 0
0
18 0
1
12 0
2
0 0
1
16 0
2
8 0
4
0 0
2
0 0
1
0 0
Ltdia Winship.
Lexington, Januarj' 23d, 1783.
This may certify, to whom it may concern, that I, the subscri-
ber, lost, on the nineteenth of April, 1775, by the British Uoops,
in household furuituie, wearing apparel, and in money, more
than I can replace with the sum of sixty-six pounds, thurteen
shillings and four pence. ......
£66 13 4
Lydia Wi.NSHir.
688 EXCURSION OF THE KING'S TROOPS. [April 19,
John Mason.
The loss and damage I sustained by the British troops, on the
nineteenth of April, 1775, in sundry articles of clothing and
household furniture, &c. &c., was . . . . • £14 13 4
John Mason.
Lexington, Januaiy 23d, 1783.
Matthew Mead.
The account of the loss that I sustained by the British troops,
on the nineteenth of April, 1775, amounts to one hundred and one
pounds, agreeably to the present value of lijcse things that I lost. £101 0 0
Matthew Mead.
Benjamin Merriam.
The following is a true and just account of the damage sustained by Ben-
jamin Meriam, by the ravages of the British troops, in the to\%Ti of Lexing-
ton, on the nineteenth day of April, 1775.
Real Estate, . . . . . . . .£600
Personal Property, .. . . . . .21740
Benjamin Merriam.
Nathaniel Farmer.
The following is a just and true account of what damages and losses I
sustained, by the wanton ravages and de})redations of the troops of his Brit-
ish m<ijesty, under the command of Lord Percy, on their return from Con-
cord, on the nineteenth of April, 1775, viz. :
To the wearing apparel of my family, consisting of seven per-
sons, together with my bedding, ..... £2G 0 0
To the furniture of three rooms, much damaged and carried
off, 16 0 0
To damage done my house and shop windows, . . 4 10 0
£46 10 0
Nathaniel Farmer.
Thomas Fessenden.
The following is a just and true account of the damages 1 sustained, by
the wanton ravages of the British troops, under tlu; conjmand of Lord Per-
cy, on tlic niiicteoiitJi of Ajuil, 1775, in their return from Concord, viz.:
To damage done my house and windows, and fences, . . £6 0 0
1775.] EXCURSION OF THE KING'S TROOPS.
689
To tlio Wfariiiir jippaicl ol'iiiy wlioh; (hmily, coiisi.stiii>.f of sev-
en jMMsons, . . . . . . . . 2.^ 0 0
To tlie bidding and fiirnitiirc of limr rooms, \\ illi sfncral arti-
cles of plate, . . . . . . , T.j 0 0
To one liorsc and cliaisc slnlni and carriiid t<i Hostnn, . 38 0 0
To sundry pieces of broadcloth, and many otlicr articles in my
trading shop, . . . . . . . 20 0 0
£IG4 0 0
Thomas Fessenden.
Lexington, January 23, 1783.
Benjamin Fiske.
Tlie losses that I sustained, April 19th, 1775:
Four fine Holland shirts, .
One .sash window, .
Out' Ijlack silk apron,
One gold ring.
One stone ear ring.
One pair stone sleeve buttons,
One black gauze handkerchief.
One black barcclona do.
Two pail- cotton Lose,
To cash,
One quart pewter basin.
£3 13 0
0 18 0
0 15 0
0 15 0
0 12 0
0 12 0
0 9 0
0 G 0
0 18 0
0 6 0
0 2 0
£9 7 0
f
5ENJAM1
N FiSKE.
Jeremiah Harrington.
I lost on the nineteenth of April, 1775, the following articles :
One broadclDtli groat coat,
One i)air goatskin breeches.
One pair cotton and linen sheets,
Three yards calico, at (Js per yard,
One yard and a <[uarter tow cloth.
Four linen handkerchiefs, .
Two dia])er towels,
Ten yards tow cloth,
One pe\Mer platter,
Eight pewter plates.
Six pint j)orringers,
87
£3 G
0
0 19
0
1 G
8
0 18
0
0 1
10
0 8
0
0 2
0
0 15
0
0 2
5
1 4
0
0 Ki
0
690
EXCURSION OF THE KING'S TROOPS. [April 19,
Six spoons, .
One pair liose,
One pair shoes,
. 0 4 0
. 0 3 0
. 0 9 0
£11 13 11
Jeremiah Harrington.
Robert Harrington.
An account of the damage done by the British troops, on the nineteenth
of April, 1775:
To clothing and linen to the amount of . . . . £12 0 0
Robert Harrington.
Joshua Bond.
The following is a true and just account of the damages sustained by
Joshua Bond, by the ravages of the British troops, in the town of Lexing-
ton, on the IDth day of April, 1775.
One dwelling-house and shop,
Personal property, .
. £54 0 0
. l:j5 16 7
Joshua Bond-
Benjamin Brown.
A true and just account of the loss and damage sustained by the wanton
cruelty and barbarity of the British troops, on the 1 9th of April, 1775, in
real property, and in household fuiniture and weai'ing apparel, &c. &c.
Real property.
Personal estate,
£7
35
0 0
0 0
N. B. Having delivered to a committee, sent by the great and general
court or convention, a list of the articles valued separately and distinctly,
the subscril)er has nothing inoi'c to deliver in now, than the total of the
whole as above.
Benjamin Brown.
Lexington, Januaiy 20, 1783.
Hepzibeth Davis.
Lost at Concord fight:
One jiiiir of .slieets,
. £0
18 0
Tv\o pair of pillow cases, .
0
8 0
Tluec napkins,
0
4 0
Two table cloths, .
0
4 0
Three smocks,
0
13 G
1775.] EXCURSION OF THE KING'S TROOPS. f391
Throo nprons, . . . . • • .000
Shoes, cups aiul otlier articles, . . . . .280
£5 10
her
Hepzibeth X Davis.
mark.
Be!«jamin Estabrook.
LexiugtoD, January 27, 1783.
This may certify, that I, the suhscriber, lost, on the ]9th of April, 177.5,
by the Uritisli troops, in damages to my buildings and furniture, and provis-
ions cai-ried away, more than I can replace now for twelve pounds.
Benjamin Estabrook.
Samuel Be mis.
An account of damages, and plundering from me, by the king's troops,
on their retui-n from Concord, on the 19th of April, 1775 :
About twelve panes of window glass,
One pair of sheets and pillow cases.
Part of a timepiece, ....
A looking glass, .....
Two boxes, with sundries,
Lexington, January 23d, 1783.
. £0
12 0
1
7 0
1
10 0
0
0 8
0
7 0
£4
8 8
Samuel Bemis.
Nathan Blodget.
This is to certify, that the following is a just and true account of the dam-
ages and waste 1 sustained, by the ravages of the troops, under the com-
mand of Lord Percy, on the 19th of April, 1775, viz. :
My wearing apparel, namely: two coats, one pair of breeches,
one beaver hat, and sundry other articles, . . . £18 0 0
Nathan Blodget.
Lexington, January 22, 1783.
Elizabeth S.a.mson.
This may certify, to whom it may concern, that J, the subscri-
ber, lost, on the 19th of April, 1775, by the British troops, in
wearing apparel, more than I can replace with the sum of . £10 0 0
Elizabeth Samson.
093
EXCURSION OF THE KING'S TROOPS. [April 19,
Jonathan Smith, Jr.
Tlie account of tlie things that I lost by the British troops, on the 19th of
April, 1775 :
Three silver spoons,
One pair of silver buckles.
One pair of sleeve buttons,
One satin bonnet and cloak,
One hat and one pair of shoes,
Two pewter porringers.
One block-tin tea pot,
One blanket,
To a number of other articles.
Damage done to the house,
£0 12 0
0 18 0
0 6 8
3 12 0
1 10 0
0 2 0
0 12 0
0 18 0
2 2 0
3 0 0
£13 12 8
Jonathan Smith, Jr.
John Williams.
A true and just account of the damages received by the British king's
troops, under the command of Lord Percy, April 19, 1775 :
To damage done to my house and fence,
To wearing apparel and liousehold furniture,
Sum total.
Lexington, Januai-y 23, 1783.
. £3 10 0
. 33 5 0
. £30 15 0
John Williams.
John Winship.
Taken by the British troops the 19th of April, 1775 :
Two suits of clothes, valued at twelve pounds, lawful money, . £12 0 0
John Winship.
Lexington, January 23, 1783.
Margaret Winship.
This is to certify, that the following is a just and true account of the dam-
ages and warttc I sustained, by the ravages of the troops under the com-
mand of Lord Percy, on the lUth of April, 1775, viz. :
My wearing apparel and bedding, with sundry articles of plate, £15 0 0
Also the furniture of two rooms, much damaged and carried off, GOO
1775.] EXCURSION OF THE KING'S TROOPS. G93
Damages done to my lioiiso and windows, . . . 1 10 0
£Q2 JO 0
Margaret VVinsuip.
Lexington, January 22, 178.'^
Marrett 3Iu>"Roe.
Damage done by the IJritisli troops, the 19th of April, 1775, to my prop-
erty carried oil", to tlic amount of live pounds and six pcnfo, . £5 0 6
Marrett Munroe.
William Mu.nroe.
The account of things taken away and destroyed by the i3ritish troops,
April 19, 1775 :
Household furniture and clothing, .... £83 11 9
In the retail shop, . . . . . . . 90 0 0
£173 11 9
Damage of real property, . . . . . . 30 0 0
William Munroe.
Amos Muzzy.
April 19, 1775.
An account of what damage the British troops did me that day :
To breaking glass windows,
To one looking-glass, ....
To crockery ware, .....
To damage to real estate, ....
.
£G
14 0
.
10 0
2
0 0
•
2
0 0
£18
4 0
Amos
Muzzy.
Lydia Mulliken.
An account of the real and personal proi)crty belonging to the widow
Lydia Mulliken and her son, destroyed and carried ofl'by the British troops,
in their ravages in said to\vn, on the 19th of April, 1775 :
One mansion house and shop, .... £128 0 0
Household furniture, ...... lOG 12 0
My wearing apparel, and that of five of my family, . .98 18 8
A number of valuable clocks and clockmalter's tools, . . 105 10 0
£431 0 0
The above account is computed at the lowest rate that things can be
purchased at this day,
Lydia MuLLiKErf.
694 EXCURSION OF THE KING'S TROOPS. [April 19, 1774.
William Munroe.
An account of the loss and damage sustained by William Munroe, late of
Lexington, destroyed by the ravages of the Britisli troops, on the 19th of
April, 1775, viz.:
Household goods and furniture, . . . . .£900
Isaac Reed, one of the heirs to said estate.
Lexington, January 24, 1783.
PAPERS
HELATI.NO TO
T I C O N D E R O G A AND C II O AV N POINT
Benedict .Arnold to the Committee of Safety,
Cambridge, April 30, 1775.
Gentlemen : — You have desired me to state the number of cannon, &c.,
at Ticouderoga. I have certain information, that there ai-e at Ticondcroga,
eighty pieces of heavy cannon ; twenty brass guns from four to eighteen
poiniciers ; and ten or t^\'elve large mortars. At Skenesborough, on tlie
south bay, there ai'c tliree 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
eight}' tons on the lake. The place could not iiold out au hour against a
vigorous onset.
Your most obedient servant,
BENEDICT ARNOLD.
Hon Joseph Warren, and the honorable Committee of Safety.
Committee of Safety to the Congress ofJVeiv York.
Cambridge, April 30, 1775.
Gentlemen: — It has been proposed to us to take possession of the for-
tress of Ticonderoga. We have a just sense of the importance of that forti-
fication, and the usefulness of the fine cannon, mortars, and field i)icces
which are there. But we would not, even on this emergency, infringe ujion
the rights of our sister colony of New York ; but we have desu-ed the gen-
tleman who will carry 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 and affection.
Your most obedient servants,
JOSEPH WARREN, Chairman.
To JUexander McDougall, Esq.
696 TICONDEROGA AND CROWN POINT.
Edward Molt to the Provincial Congress.
To the honorable Provincial Co7igress, or to the Council of War for the Prov-
ince of Massachusetts Bay :
Shoreham, May 11, 1775.
Gentlemen: — I Avould congratulate you on the surrender of the gar-
rison of Ticonderoga to the American forces. The aflair was planned and
conducted after the following manner : a number of the provincial gentle-
men of the assembly at Hartford, on Friday the 28th of April, conversing on
the distressed condition of the people of Boston, and the means necessaiy to
i-elieve them, fell on tlie scheme to take that fortress, that we might have the
advantage of the cannon that were there, to relieve the people 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 waj'^, to join Capt. Noah Phelps, of Sims-
bury, and Mr. Bernard Romans, on that design; and furnished us with
£300 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 1 thought proper,
to proceed to take possession of the same. On which, we collected to the
ninnber of sixteen men in Connecticut, and proceeded forward till we came
to Col. Easton's, at Pittsfield ; and there we consulted with Col. 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 tlie coimtry any distance without our plans being
discovered, Col. Easton and IMr. Brown told us, that the people on the
Grants were ])oor, and at this time of year it would be difficult to raise a
sufficient number of men there to take and hold said garrison ; w hereon
Col. Easton offered to raise men in his own regiment for the aforesaid pur-
pose, to join with the green mountain boys; on which I set out with him
for the town of Jericlio, Avhere Col. Easton raised between forty and fifty
men, and proceeded to Bennington, at which place the men arrived the next
day. At this place a council of war was called, Col. Easton being chair-
man, and it was voted, that Col. Allen should send forward parties to secure
the roads to the northward, to prevent all intelligence from arriving before
us. On Sunday evening, the 7th of this instant May, we arrived at Castle-
ton, where, on tlie next day, was held a council of w ar by a committee cho-
sen for that purpose, of which committee I had the honor to be chairman.
After debating and consulting on different methods of procedure in oi-der
to accomplish our designs, it was concluded and voted, that we would pro-
ceed in the following manner, viz. : that a party of thirty men under the
coinmiuid of Capt. Uerrick, should, on the next day, in the afternoon, pro-
ceed to Skenesborough, and take 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 i-emainder of our men,
which were about one hundred and forty, who were under the connnand of
Col. Etiiun Allen, and Col. James Easton as his second, and Capt. Warner,
TICONDEROGA AND CROWN POINT. 097
the third hi command; as these three men were the persons who raised tlic
men they were rlMiscn to tlie command, and to rank acconlinif to tlie inim
btM-ofmcn that i-acli one raised. Wt- also sent ofl'C 'a[il I)oIl^las, of Jeri(,-h<»,
to procei'd directly to Panton, and there consult his hrotlicr in law, who
lived there, and send down some boats to Shorcliaiii, it' fiossililc, to h(;li> our
peojtic over to the fort. All this it was concluded shcjuld he done or at-
tempted, and was voted nniversally. Alh-r this ailiiir was all settled, and the
men pitched on to {;o in each party, all were preparing lor their march, be-
ing then within about nine miles of Skenesliorough, and about twenty-five
miles on the way we went, from Ticonderoga.
Col. Arnold arrived to us from you with his orders. We were extremely
rejoiced to see that you lidly agreed with us, as to the expediency and im-
portance of takit)g j)ossession of the garrison.'*. But we were shockingly
surprised when Col. Arnold presumed to contend for the command of those
forces that we liad raised, whom we had assured, should go under the com-
mand 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 liad a rigiit to command
them and all their officers ; which bred such a mutiny amongst the soldiers,
as almost frustrated our whole design. Our men were for clubbing their
firelocks and marching home, but were prevented by Col. Allen and Col.
Easton, who told them, that he should not have the command of them, and
if lie had, their i)ay would be the same as though they were under their
command ; but they ^\ ould damn the j)ay, and say they would not be com-
manded by any others but those they engaged with. After the garrison was
surrendered, Mr. Arnold again assumed the command, although he had not
one man there, and demanded it of Col. Allen; on which, we gave Col. Al-
len his orders in writing, as follow, viz, :
To Col. Ethan Men :
Sir: — Whereas, agreeably to the power and authority to us given 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 tliercto belonging; and as you are now in actual pos-
session of the same, you are hereby re([uired to keep the command and pos-
session of the same for the use of the American colonies, until yon have fm*-
ther orders from the colony of Connecticut, or the Continental Congress.
Signed, per order of the committee of war,
EDWARD MOTT, atairman of said Committee.
Col James Easton, was of great service both in council and action, and in
raising men for the above expedition, and ai)pcared to be well «iualified to
be not only a colonel of the militia at home, but to command in the field.
Also, John Brown, Esq., of Pittsfield, we recommend as an able counsellor,
and full of spirit and resolution, as well as good conduct. We wish they
88
698 TICONDEROGA AND CROWN POINT.
may both be employed in the service of their country in a situation equal to
their merits.
I liave the pleasure to add, that on Wednesday morning last, the 10th of
this instant May, about the break of day, our men entered the gate; till thea
they Avere undiscovered, and in the most courageous and intrepid manner
darted like lightning upon the guards, so that but two had time to snap
their firelocks at us, and in a few minutes, the fortress and its dependen-
cies were delivered into our hands. There are about forty soldiers taken
prisoners of war, including officers, and excluding those taken at Skenes-
borough. Not one life was lost in these noble acquisitions.
I am. Gentlemen, in haste, your most obedient humble servant,
EDWARD MOTT, Chairman of the Committee of War.
Certificate of Col. Easton, and others.
Ticonderoga, May 11, 1775.
To the Provincial Congress notv sitting at Waterlown :
This is to certify, that previous to Col. Benedict Arnold's arrival to the
forts Ticonderoga and Crown Point, a committee sent fioui the colony of
Connecticut, furnished with money for the purpose of reducing and garri-
soning said forts, had, with the assistance of eighty men from Massachu-
setts, and one hundred and forty men from the New Hampshire Grants,
marched within a few miles of Ticonderoga, and this morning, at day break,
took j)ossession of said fort, and gave the command thereof into the hands
of Col. Ethan Allen. Col. Arnold refuses to give up his command, which
causes much difficulty ; said Arnold not having enlisted one man, neither
do we know that he can do so. As said committee have raised the men,
and are still raising sup[)lies for the purpose of repairing said fort, taking the
armed sloop, and defending the country and the fort, we think said Arnold's
further proceeding in the matter, highly inexpedient both in regard to ex-
pense and dispute.
James Easton, "] Committee of War for the
Epapurus Ball, ' expedition against Ti-
Edward Mott, ( conderoga and Crown
Noah Phelps, j Point.
Benedict Arnold to the Committee of Safety.
Ticonderoga, May 11, 1775.
Gentlemen : — 1 wrote you yesterday,^ that arriving in the vicinity of this
(1) The letter of llie lOlli ot'.Mny, was not roceived liy the Committee of Safety.
TICONDEIIOUA AND CROWN POINT. (31)9
j)lnci', I Joiiiid, one liiiiKlicd (iiid tiny nioii, rollcclcd at tlio instance of some
fr<MillcMn( n iVoiii CniintTticiit <l(,'!sijin<'(I on tlio same L-niind on uhirli 1 raino,
licadrd liy C'nl I'jiian Allen ; and that I had joined tlicni, not thinking' jirop-
er to ^\aif iIk' arrival of the troops I had eni;a^M'd on the nia<l, hut to attempt
tlie fidt hy surprise; that wo liad taken the lort at Ibnr o'llock yesterday
morninjr, without opposition, Jind iia<l madt; prisoners, one captain, one lieu-
tenant, and foity odd privates and suhalterns; and that wn foiuid the ioit
in a most ruinous condition, and not vvorth re|iairin<^; that a jiaity of fifty
men were gone to Crown roiiit, and liiat I intended to follow with an many
more, to seize the slooj), &c. ; nnd tliat 1 intended to keep possession iiere,
until I had further advice from you. On and before our taking possession
here, I had ajrreed with Col. Allen, to issue future orders jointly, until I
could raise a sulficieiit number of men to relieve his jicople ; on which plan,
we proceeded, when I wrote you yesterday ; since which, Col. Allen, find-
ing he had the ascendency over his people, ]Jositively insisted I should have
no command, as I had forbid the soldiers' plundering and destroying private
property. The power is now^ taken out of my hands, and I am not consulted,
nor have 1 a voice in any matters. There are here, at present, near one hun-
dred men, who are in the greatest confusion and anarchy, destroying and
plundering private property, and committing every enormity, paying no at-
tention to the public service. The party I advised were gone to (I'rovvn
Point, have returned, having met with head winds; and that expedition, and
taking the slooi), mounted with six guns, are 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 af-
front. Most of them must return home soon, as their families are suffering.
Lender our present situation, I believe one hundred men could retake the
fort, and there seems no prospect of things being in a better situation. 1
have, therefore, thought proper to send an express, advising you of the state
of affairs, not doubting you will take the matter into 3'our serious considera-
tion, and order a number of troops to join those 1 have coming on here ; or
that you will appoint some other jjcrson to take the command of them and
this j)lace, as you shall think most proper. Col. 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 autliorized to take posses-
sion of this place, I am determined to insist on my right, and think it my du-
ty to remain here, against all opposition, until I have further orders. I can-
not comply with your orders in regard to the cannon, &c , for want of men.
I have written to the governor and general assembly of Connecticut, advis-
ing them of my appointment, and giving them an exact detail of matters as
they stand at present. I should be extremely glad to be hoiioraI)ly acquitted
of my commission, and that a more 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
700 TICONDEROGA AND CROWN POINT.
keep it, at every hazard, until I have further advice and orders from you,
and the general assembly of Connecticut.
I have the honor 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 are a large num-
ber of iron and some brass cannon and mortars, &c., 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, fuither than
that there are many cannon, shells, mortal's, &c., which may be very ser-
viceable to our army at Cambridge.l
B. A.
To tlie Committee of Safety, Camhidge.
Benedict Arnold to the Committee of Safety.
TicoNDEROGA, May 14, 1775.
Gentlemen : — My last was of the 11th instant, per express ; since which, a
party of men have seized on Crown Point, in which they took eleven pris-
oners, and found sixtj^-one pieces of cannon serviceable, and fifty-three un-
fit for service. I ordered a party to Skenesborough, who have made Ma-
jor Skene prisoner, and seized a small schooner, which has just arrived
here. I intend setting out in her directly, with a batteau and fifty men, to
take possession of the sloop, which we are advised this morning, by the
post, is at St. Johns, loaded with provisions, &c., waiting a wind for this
place. Inclosed 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. Bernard Romans, mak-
ing preparation at Fort George, for transporting to Albany those cannon
that will be serviceable to our army at Cambridge. I have about one hun-
dred men here, and expect more every minute. Mr. Allen's party is de-
creasing, and the dispute between us subsiding. I am extremely sorry mat-
ters 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 public. I hope soon to be properly released from this
troublesome business, and that some proper person may be appointed in my
rooDQ, till which
I am, very respectfully, Gentlemen,
Your most obedient humble servant,
BENEDICT ARNOLD.
(1) The answer to this letter is inaorted in tlie Journal of tlie Provincial Congress, ante page 250.
TICONDEROGA AND CROWN POINT. 701
V. S. Siiico wriliiij,' tin- .iliovc, Mi. Koiiiiiii.s coiicliMlc-i on ^M)iii;r to .Mliaiiy
to Ibrwartl raniujfcs lor tin; ruiuioii, ».Vi-., and provisions, wliicli will be
!<oo!i wanted. I hfj,' leave to oljserve, he Jias Ijctii of j^reat t-ervice here, and
1 thiniv liini a very s])irit*-d, judicious pciitlenian, wlio has tlie service of the
coiniiry mncli at heart, and hi)|)c lie will meet iirojicr encouragement.
B. A.
List of Cannon, .Mortars, and Stores, taken at Crown Point and Ticonderoga,
May IJ, 1775;
.It Crown Point — Two iron twenty-four pounders : one iron twenty-four,
useless : one brass twenty-four, serviceable : four iron eighteens, and four-
teen iron twelves, not examined, but appearing good: four French iron
twelves, useless: eight French twelves and cigliteens, not examined, but
ai»pearing good : seven long nines, double Ibrtilied, and good: twelve long
nines, serviceable : two long Jiines, mounted : thirty-three long sixes and
nines, useless : seven long nines and twelves, useless : two long sixes, good :
two short sixes, bad : three short sixes, not examined : three short sixes,
useless: one English thirteen inch mortar: one French thirteen inch, two
French eight inch, and two eight inch howitzers, all serviceable.
M Ticonderoga — Three long eighteen i)Ounders, good: two French eigh-
teens, bad : two French twelves, bad, and two good : six French twelves,
double fortified, good, and two bad : twelve long nines, good, and five bad :
eighteen sixes, bad : nine lours, good : one six, good : nineteen swivels,
good : tw o wall pieces, good : two French twelves, bad : one thiiteen inch
mortar and bed, good : one seven inch and bed, good : one seven inch how-
itzer, good : twenty-eight iron truck wheels: ten carriages, fit for use: for-
ty-two port fires : five cop|)er ladles, w itli staves : twelve copper ladles
without staves: seventeen lintstocUs: one hundred, eighteen pound shot:
five hundred and fifty, twelve jjouikI shot : two hundred and forty, nine
pound shot: one thousand four hundred and thirty, six pound shot: one
hundred and sixty eight, quilted grape shot: nine tons lead balls: three
thousand seven hundred pounds iron balls: twenty-eight barrels jjowder,
damaged : nine hundred and six shells : thirty thousand flints.
Benedict Arnftld to the Committee of Safety.
Crown Point, May 19, 1775.
Gentlemen: — My last was of the 14th instant, by 31r. Romans, via New
Haven. I then acquainted you of the occasion of delay in not carrying
your orders into execution. 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 imme-
diately proceeded on our way to St. Johns, and at eight o'clock, P. 31. the
17th instant, arrived within thirty miles of St. Johns. The weather proving
702 TICONDEROGA AND CROWN POINT.
calm, we manned out two small batteaiix with thirty-five men, and the next
morning, at six o'clock, arrived at St. Johns, 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 was 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 were a captain and forty
men at Chamble6, twelve miles distant from St. Johns, who were expected
there every minute with the party : so that it seemed to be a mere interpo-
sition of Providence that we arrived in so fortunate an hour. We took
such stores on board as were valuable, and the wind proving favorable, in
two hours after oiu- arrival, weighed anchor for this place, with the sloop
and four of the king's batteaux, 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 intention. I must, in justice to Col.
Allen, observe, that he left Crown Point soon after me ibr St Johns, with
one hundred and fifty men, and on my i-eturn I met him five leagues this
side, and supplied him with provisions, his men being in a starving condi-
tion. He informed me of his intention of proceeding on to St. Johns with
eighty or one hundred men, and keeping possession there. It appeared to
me a wild, impracticable scheme, and provided it could be carried into exe-
cution, 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.
1 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 build-
ing a new one. I am really of opinion, it will be necessary to employ one
thousand or fifteen hundred men here this sunmier, in which I have the
pleasure of being joined in sentiment by Mr. Romans, who is esteemed an
able engineer. I am making all possible j)rovision for wheel carriages, &c.,
to carry such cannon, &c. to Albany, as can be spared here and will be ser-
viceable to our army at Cambridge.
I must refer you for particulars to the bearer, Capt. Jonathan Brown, who
has been very active and serviceable, and is a prudent and good officer, and
beg leave to observe, I have had intimations given me, that some persons
had determined to ai)ply to you and the Provincial Congress, to injure me
in your esteem, by misrepresenting matters of fact. I know of no other
motive tliey can have, only my refiising them commissions, for the very
simple reason, that 1 did not think them qualified. However, gentlemen, I
have the satisfaction of imagining I am employed by gentlemen of so much
candor, 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.
TICONDKROOA AND CROWN POINT. 70:J
P. S. llnrlosed is a iiiciiiiiniiKliiiii dT siuli ciiinion, tVc. iis 1 iiitond .send-
ing to Cuinl)rid<.'<- : also of .siicli as arc; lioie.
Jiy a return lioni Montreal to (ieneial Cliii^e, I fnid tlicic are seven inin-
dred and seventeen men in Canada, of the 7tli und ^tilli regiments, includ-
ing seventy, wliom we have taken |tii.soners.
To ilie Committee of Sajeli/, Cumbridge.
Benedict Arnold to the Commillee of Safety.
Crown Point, Mat 23, 1775.
Gentlemen: — 31y last was of the lOtli instant, byCapt. Jonathan Brown.
I then advised you of my taking possession of the king's sloop, ^c, and
that, on the It^th instant, on my return from St. Johns, Colonel Allen, with
about eighty or one hundred man, passed me, with the intention of making a
stand at St. Johns, and not being able to dissuade him from so rash a pur-
pose, 1 supplied him with provision, &c. Yesterday he arrived at Ticonde-
roga with his party, and says, that on the evening of the 18th instant, he ar-
rived with hi.s ])arty at St Johns, and hearing of a detachment of men on
the road Iroin iMontreal, he laid an ambush Jbr them : but his people being
so much fatigued, when the party was about one mile distant, he thought
jjroper to retreat, and ciossed the lake at St. Johns, where they continued
through the night : at dawn the next day, they were, when asleep, saluted
with a discharge of grape shot from six field ])ieces, and a discharge of
small arms fioni about two hundred regulars. They made a precipitate re-
treat and left beliind three men.
Immediately on this advice, 1 proceeded here with the sloop and schooner,
as well armed as possible under our circumstances, and eighty men, which,
with the party here before, make 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. Alost of those here have enlisted. Colonel
Allen's men are, in general, gone home. As the regulars have good infbr-
niation of our strength and movements, I am ajjprehensive of their paying
us a visit, provided they can get batteaux fiom Montreal to St. Johns. I
shall make every possible ]ireparation to give them a warm reception. I
have commissioned Ca[)t. John Stone in the sloop, and Capt. Isaac Mathews
in the schooner, and have written to New York for a number of gunners
and seamen, to man the two vessels, being in great want of them at present,
and obliged to stay on board one of them myself.
As soon as a sufficient number of men arrive, I shall lose no time in car-
rying your orders into execution, in regard to the cannon. This morning,
very luckily, an escort of provisions, five barrels of pork, and thirty barrels of
flour, arrived here, as a i)resent from Albany, under the care of Capt. Elijah
Phel])s, the last barrel of our pork being broached. I have ordered fifty
704 TICONDEROGA AND CROWN POINT.
barrels of pork, and one hundred barrels of flour, from Albanj', which I ex-
pect soon. Prior to which, I bouglit five oxen and thirty barrels of flour,
which is all the provision purchased yet. The people enlisted have been
promised the same bounty as is given in the Massachusetts Bay. A sum of
money will be requisite to cany matters into execution. I have £160, found
in the sloop: but as it was the property of the captain, I don't choose to
make use of it at present 1 have sent to Albany repeatedly for powder,
and can get none there : only one hundred and fifty pounds here, which I
broui'ht fi-om Concord ; and I beg you will order a quantity to be sent for-
ward here immediately. I have written to Connecticut, but can have no
dependence from that quarter, as it is very scarce there. I hope some gen-
tleman will soon be appointed in my room here, who is better able to serve
the public than I am. In the interim,
I am, Gentlemen, your most obedient humble servant,
BENEDICT ARNOLD.
P. S. Since writing the above, one of Col. Allen's party, who was taken
prisoner at St. Johns, has made his escape, and says, that on the 19th in-
stant, there were about four hundred regulars at St. Johns, who expected to
be reenforced by more men, and were making all possible preparations to
cross the lake, and retake Crown Point and Ticonderoga. I have sent ex-
presses to Fort George and Skenesborough, to rally the country. You may
depend, gentlemen, these places will not be given up, unless we are over-
powered with numbers, or deserted by Providence, which has, hitherto, sup-
ported us.
I am yours, &c.
B. ARNOLD.
Gov. Trumbxdl to the Provincial Congress.
Hartford, Mat 25, 1775.
Gentlemen: — Your letter of the 17th instant, with the enclosed resolve
of the Provincial Congress of Massachusetts Bay, was delivered to me by
Col. Easton, and communicated to the general assembly, who have desired
me to return their congratulations on the reduction of Ticonderoga, a for-
tress truly important, and to assure you they entertain a pro})er sense of the
merit of those officers and soldiers by whose bravery and good conduct it
was achieved. As tliis advantage was gained by the united councils and
enterprise of a number of jirivalc gentlemen in your province, New Hamp-
shire, New York, and this colony, prompted only by a zeal for the liberty of
their country, without public authority to our knowledge, and is of great
and general importance to the united colonics, it was thought best to take
the advice of the Continental Congress upon the maimer of treating it in
future, both by the general assembly of this colony and the committee of
New York, as well as by you. Despatches were accordingly sent to Phila-
TICONDEROGA AND CROWN POINT. 7(15
•iflpliiii, and tin- sciiiiiiH'iits ot" the Coiitiiiciilal ( '()n<,'ioss tlicrcoii have Ikm'H
received tliis day, l>y express, willi n letter from llic coiniiiittec of New
York, copies of wliieli, enclosed, are lierevvitli sent you.
lly them yon will see, the present custody of that fortrcs.s is comtnitted
to the province ot New York, with the assistance of the New Enjiiand col-
onies, if needed. The general assend)ly of this colony hciiold yom- situa-
tion with concern, and a fixed resolution to conlrihute every thinir in tlnir
power to your defence aiwl preservation, and ns lar as pertains to them, are
willing and desirous you should have tin; hcnefit of such artillery as may bo
spared liom the fortresses of Crown I'oint and Tirondero;;a ; hut, as they
do not consider themselves ns entitled to the conmiand oftho.se 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 colonies
interested in them.
The necessity of securing and maintaining the posts on the lakes, for the
defence of the frontiers, becomes daily more evident, from the reiterated in-
telligence we receive, of the plan formed by our enemies to distress us, by
inroads of Canadians and savages, from the province of Quebec, upon the
adjacent settlements. The enclosed copy of a letter from our delegates at-
tending at New York, to conmumicate measures with the Provincial Con-
gress in that city, throws an additional light on this subject, and is thought
worthy to be communicated to you. Whilst the designs of our enemies
against us, fill us with concern, we cannot omit to observe the smiles of
Providence upon us, in revealing their w icked plans, and hitherto prosper-
ing the attempts of the colonics to frustrate them. With a humble reliance
on the continuance of divine favor and protection in the cause, of the jus-
tice of which a doubt cannot be entertained, the general assembly of this
colony are ready to cooperate with the other colonies, in every exertion for
their common defence, and to coiUribute their ])roporlion of men atid other
necessaries, for maintaining the posts on the frontiers, or defending or re-
pelling invasions in any other quarter, agreeably to the advice of the Conti-
nental Congress.
1 am. Gentlemen, in behalf of the general assembly of this colony,
Your most obedient humble servant,
JONATHAN TRUMJiULL.
To the Provincial Congress of Massachusetts.
Committee of JVeio York to Gov. Trumbtdl.
New York, Mav 22, 1775.
Honored Sir: — I am directed by the general committee of association
for this city and count} , to transmit to your honor the enclosed authentic
copy of a resolution of the Continental Congress, received by express, and
89
706 TICONDEROGA AND CROWN POINT.
to inform your lionor, that in consequence thereof, we immediately shipped
to Albany one hundred barrels of pork, and that a select committee has
been api)ointed to purchase and ibrward, without delay, cordage, oakum,
pitch, guns, and eveiy other necessary that may be wanted from hence, to
Garry into execution the aforesaid resolution.
We have also, by express, desii-ed our brethren of Albany to give their
aid and assistance.
I have the honor to be, most respectfully.
Your honor's most obedient and humble seiTant,
HENRY REMSEN, Deputy Chairman.
Hon, Gov. TrunibulL
Resolution of the Continental Congress.
In Continental 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 Quebec,
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 exe-
cution : and whereas, several inhabitants of the northern colonies residing
in the vicinity of Ticonderoga, immediately exposed to incursions, impelled
by a just regard for the defence and i)reservation of themselves and their
countrymen Irom such imminent dangers and calamities, have taken pos-
session 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 Ticonderoga to the south
end of Lake George, and, if necessary, to apply to the colonies of New
Hampshire, Massachusetts Eay, and Connecticut, for such an additional
body offerees 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 caimon and stores, m order that they may be safely returned,
when the restoration of the former harmony between Great Britain 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.
TICONDEROGA AND CROWN POINT. 70T
Coinniilttc of ConmcliciU to the (itmnil ^h.iiinhlif.
New ^■(JUK, Mav 'S.], 177.').
Sir: — Wv arrived in tliis rity last eveniiijr, uiid liavo tljo .sutisfuctjon tr) in-
form you, tliat tlic r(iiiiiiiittf<' of Ncav York havo c(ini|>ii«;d uifli tlio iWritc-
tiona of the Coiiliiiental Conjiress, as to furiiisliinir our lorces at Ti' ondero-
ga with |»rovision.s.
Tlic Provincial Coiiveution of this province are now sittinp, l»ut have
not got through the business of examining certificates, &.c. We havo
not, therefore, as yet, laid our n|)pointnient before them. We liave iiad a
personal conference v^ith .Mr. Price, an eminent Knglisli merchant of Mon-
treal, who is sent by the English merchants of that place, express to the
Continental Congress, with intelligence of a most interesting nature. He
informs us, that ail the French officers of Canada are now in actual yjay un-
der General Carlton ; that St. Luke La Ciirne, who was suj)erintendent of all
the Lidians in Canada, wiiile it was in the hands of the French, and is
father in law of Mr. Campbell, who is superintendent under liis majesty,
has sent belts to the northern tribes, as far up as the falls of St. Maiy and
Michilimakinak, to engage them to take up arms against the New England
colonies, but the event of that embsissy is not yet known : that a similar ap-
plication iiad 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 hostilities
against the rebels of New England.
Mr. Price gives it as his o])inion, that the Canadian peasants will not, but
with the utmost reluctance, engage against the colonists, but that the no-
blesse are our bitter enemies : he also says, that General Carlton was ex-
pected at Montreal in a day or two after he left that place, which was the 1 Ith
of May instant, and that he was to ttike up his residence there for this sum-
mer.
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 of learning
tlieir true sjnrit.
The Provincial Convention of New Jersey meet this day : we projx)se to
wait on them sometime this week.
We can, at i)resent, 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 was apprehended.
We are, Sir, ^vith due respect, your most obedient humble servants,
NATHANIEL WALES, Jr.,
THADDELS BURR,
PIERPONT EDWARDS.
To the Hon. inUiam TnUiams, Esq.,
Speaker of the House of ^lasembly, Cottnecticut,
708 TICONDEROGA AND CROWN POINT.
Congress of JVew York to the Committee of Safety.
In Provincial Congress, New York, May 26, 1775.
Brethren : — Having received a minute of the grand Continental Con-
gress, of which we send you a copy herewith ; we wrote a letter to tiie gov-
ernor 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 measures recommend-
ed by that august body, in which we do entirely acquiesce.
We pray you to act on this occasion with prudence and expedition, espe-
cially as we have received intimations from our brethren in Connecticut,
that they cannot send a sufficient 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 general cause of freedom.
We are. Gentlemen, your humble servants,
P. V. B. LIVINGSTON, President.
To Joseph Wmren, Esquire, and others, the Committee of Safety
for the Colony of Massachusetts Bay.
Benedict .Arnold to the Commiitee of Safety.
Crown Point, May 20, 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 altera-
tion. Very few men have arrived ; we have fixed the sloop with six car-
riage and twelve swivel guns; the schooner with four carriage and eight
swivel ; both vessels are in good order, and tolerably well manned, eight
gentlemen having arrived from Hartford, who are seamen. I have sent two
ten inch iron mortars, two eight inch brass mortars, and two eight inch
howitzers to Ticonderoga, to be forwarded to Fort George. You may de-
pend on my sending the cannon from this place as soon as possible. There
are three thirteen inch iron mortars here. I beg to know what 1 shall do
with them. I have received large donations of flour, pork, peas, &c., 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
advices I received from Butterfield, and communicated in the postscript of
my last of the 23d instant, prove to be premature. I have good intelligence
from a batteau immediately from St. Johns, which place she left the 19th
instant, that the regulars were returned to Chamble6.
1 am, with great respect, Gentlemen, your obedient servant,
BENEDICT ARNOLD.
To the Committee of Safety, Cambridge.
TICOiNDEllOGA AND CROWN POINT. "IdU
General Jlssembly of Connecticut to Iht Proi'inndl Con'^nss.
Harirnnl, .May '^7, 1775.
Gk.ntlkme.n: — Von liavc, doultllcss, rci'civcd tlu; ailvicc of tlio rontiiicii-
tal ( "niiirross, relative to tlm iiiipoitaiit (oitiesses and posts of 'ricomliiofrn
and Ciowii I'oiiit. Wc esteem it necessary to lie guided hy ilieir oiiiiiioii in
every iinpurtant transaction, and liave great satisfaction in tlieir a|)prol)ation
of tlie oaptnre made of tliose posts; and tlieir advice relatinf? to the remov-
ing the cannon, &c., to the south end of Lake G'eorge, and making n stand
tliere, must prohaiily he rom|)lied with, nidess they, upon further consider-
ation, 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 da^s since,
signified their opinion to our delegates at said Congress, and from thence,
and lor other reasons, hope for their concurrence.
The bearer, Capt. Piielps, who lias been very active and useful in the cap-
tures, is just arrived with important advices from Col. Arnold, of an expect-
ed attack, speedily fi-om Governor Carlton, and is charged with the same
advices from IMr. Arnold to you. In consequence of them, and the imminent
danger the people there are exposed to, our assembly have just ordered five
hundred pounds of our pittance of powder, to be forthwith sent them; and
also, have ordei-ed four companies to march, for their present relief, and
have advised the New York Provincial Congress of this step ; and also, are
now despatching advices of the same to the Continental Congress, again set-
ting forth the advantage of maintaining a post at Ticouderoga or Crown
Point, and suggesting our wishes, that they reconsider their advice.
In the mean time, you may be assured that we have no such 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 temj)orary relief.
I aiTi, Gentlemen, in the name and behalf of the house of representatives,
your most obedient and humble servant, by their order,
WILLIAM WILLIAMS, Speaker.^
Governor Trumbull to the Provincial Congress.
Haitford, May 29, 1775.
Gentlfmen: — I am desired to inclose to you, a copy of a letter from the
Congress of New York to this assembly, dated t25th instant, which you will
receive herewith, per Mr. Brown, who is on his return from the Continen-
tal Congress. The contents of the above mentioned letter were immediately
taken into consideration by this assembly ; in consequence whereof, they
(1) The answer to this letter is printed in the Journals of the Provincial Congress, page 288.
710 TICONDEROGA AND CROWN POINT.
came into the following resolutions. That one thousand men, including
four hundred which we had hefbre ordered, under command of Col. Hin-
man, should march, as soon as possible, to Ticonderoga and Ciow n 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 order-
ed by this assembly. That Col. Uinman take the command of our troops
on those stations. That the troops be furnished witli one pound of powder
and three pounds of bullets to each soldier. That Col. Hinman be ordered
to keep up the strictest vigilance, to j)revent any hostile incursions from be-
ing made into the settlements of the province of Quebec. And, that the
Provincial Congresses of New York and Massachusetts Bay, be advised of
these measures; and the New York Congress be requested to forward the
necessary sup])lies 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 mentioned detachment of
troops ordered by this colony, will be sufficient for the important purposes
for which they are destined. But we recollect that Col. 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 informed 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 maintain their ground
and keep possession of those important posts.
We take the liberty to recommend to your consideration, the fm-nishing
such additional supply of powder from you, as you shall think necessary to
be sent forward for the support of those northern posts. 1 am very sorry to
have it to say, that we are credibly infoi-med there are not five hundred
pounds of powder in the city of New York : but at the same time, are advis-
ed, that means are taking to supply them with that \'ery important article.
1 am, with great truth and regartl. Gentlemen,
Your most obedient humble servant,
JONATHAN TRUMBULL.
The. honorable Provincial Congress of Massachusetts Bay.
The Congress of JVew York to the Assemhly of Connedicvt.
In Provincial Congress, New York, May 25, 1775.
To the honorable Vie Governor and Company of the English Colony of
Connecticut :
Brethren : — By a minute of the grand Continental Congress of the 18th
of May, m the year of our Lord one thousand seven hundred and seventy-
TICONDEROGA AND CROWN POINT. 711
five, n copy of wliich we do licrcwitli transmit yoii, wv arc iiifnrni<'<l, that
Ticoiitleroga hath beeu taken by siindrj' inhabitants of the northern colo-
nics ; and from tlie minute aforesaid, we are assured tliat tiiis measure was
lor the coMunon safety of the American colonies. In pursuance of tiie di-
rections contained in tiiat minute, we have fiiven the necessary orders for
removing tlie cannon and stores, taken at that important fortress, to tiie
south end of Lake George, and for securing them there ; and we have ap-
pointed Messrs. John N. Bleeker, Henry I. Bogert, George Pahner, Dirk
Swart, and Peter Lansing, superintendents of this business. There is no
doubt but that our bretiiren of Connecticut will feel great reluctance at the
idea of ordering any of their troop-s to march within tiie boiuids of this col-
ony, for the purpose of defending the fort at Ticonderoga, and the cannon
and stores above mentioned at Fort George. But we pray you to cast away
all fears of oliending us u[)on this occasion. We shall be hapjiy to hear that
you have placed a i)art of your forces in these posts, w ith intent to defend
them until they shall be relieved by troops from tliis colony.
In further pursuance of the directions of the grand Congress, we have or-
dered ])rovisions to be conveyed to Ticonderoga and Lake George, and we
shall continue to furnish such supplies as we shall deem necessary.
You will be pleased, gentlemen, to appoint trusty commanders over your
forces destined for the purposes above mentioned; and we do assure you of
our willingness that they shall take tiie command at those places while gar-
risoned by your troops.
We beg leave to assure you, that in this and all other matters, we will
pay the highest attention to every recomiueudaliou of the grand Continental
Congress, and that we have the honor to be,
Gentlemen, your most obedient humble servants,
P. V. B. LIMNGSTON, Prtsiderd.
By order of the Congress,
John 31cKisson, >
r, T> > Secretaries.
Robert Benson, ^
P. S. We pray you to use every efTort to preserve and improve the pre-
sent peaceable dispositions of the Canadians and Indians, for which purpose
we think it will be necessary to keep ujj the strictest vigilance to prevent
any incursions liom being made into the province of Quebec.
P. V. B. LIVLNGSTON, President.
Benedict Arnold to the Committee of Safety.
Crown Point, May 29, 1775.
Gentlemen: — I was equally sui'prised and alai'med this day, on receiviug
712 TICONDEROGA AND CROWN POINT.
advice, via Albany, that the Continental Congress had recommended the re-
moving of all the cannon, stores, &c., at 'I'iconderoga to Fort George, and
evacuating Ticouderoga 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. 1 have written to the Congress and given my
sentiments very freely, with your instructions to me, as I fancy they have had
no intelligence of my apjjointment or orders. Col. 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 completed, and believe they will be
joined by a thousand men from Connecticut and New York. 1 have sent to
Lake George, six large brass and iron mortars and howitzers, and 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 and humble servant,
BENEDICT ARNOLD.
Col. Easton to the Provincial Congress.
PiTTSFiELD, ]May 30, 1775.
To the honorable Provincial Congress, now sitting at JVaterloum, and to the
Iwnorable Committee of Safety, at Cambridge.
May it please tour honors : — When I arrived express from Ticondero-
ga, to the honorable Pj-ovincial Congress and Committee of Safety, at Water-
town and Cambridge, I represented to those two honorable boards, that the
reduction of that imjjortant fortress had taken its rise in the general court
of the colony of Connecticut, as it was also mentioned in the letter fiom
Capt Mott to those two honorable boards aforesaid; upon which, the Con-
gress passed a resolve, and the president of the Congress 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 assembly, and deliver-
ed the letter to the governor, his honor told me, that the assembly had not,
as an assembly, taken the matter up, but that it had its original in j)rivate
persons belonging to the assembly. Howevei-, it was immediately attended
to, and a committee of both houses was appointed to take the matter under
consideration, and did so; but did not report till Capt. Mott came from the
Continental Congress, with the approbation of that honorable body for the
taking and juaintaining the fortress aforesaid. The council have detained
me till larther intelligence can be had from the Congress at New York, and
IMr. Sheppaid is sent in nay stead. I am, however, sent on my way, with all
haste, for Ticonderoga, without receiving said intelligence, on account of
TICONDEROGA AND CROWN POIN'I'. :\'.i
the great dunper tliat fortress is in of being bcsirped in a short time. IJy
order of the ul'oresuiil ussciiihly, I liave n-nt lorward five liiiiidred poiind.s of
powder, under a projjer guard, and shall, this day, hasten after it willi all
expedition.
I expect no provisit>n from Connecticut will he made for me, and the men
tliat were with nie from tiiis pro\ince at the takinjr of said fort, which were
about fifty, and ahout one hundred who have jL'one as a reenlbrcenient, ex-
cept the paying tliem till about tliis time. Though Connecticut will raise
men and assiist iu tlie defence of that fortress, yet they expect that our con-
gress will properly officer and organize the men they send, and also pay
tbeni.
It is agreed, on all hands, the fortress must be maintained, as it is of infi-
nite importance to the general cause. I liave no doubt but very violent at-
tempts 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 honor.~, lliat I should
be willing to gene my country in the capacity 1 stand in at home, as the
head of a regiment on this northern expedition. Should you see fit to grat-
ify 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 on the most
punctual observance of all your orders. And I shall be ready to make such
farther acquisitions as shall be ui my power, consistent with wisdom and
prudence for the safety of what are already made, that you in your wisdom
shall direct.
jVs to other regimental officers, Capt. Israel Dickinson and John Brown,
Esq., have distinguished themselves very highly, lioth in council and action,
and, in my humble opinion, are well qualified to command in the field. In
a word, gentlemen, what is now wanted, is, that you put that fortress into
the best posture of defence, in conjunction with Connecticut: that you
properly officer one or more regiments : as there must be order and com-
mand in all armies, that you nominate a commander in chief: and forward
pay with all ex-jjedition. 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 Rev. Thomas Allen of this place, as a suitable per-
son, who is well known to General Pomeroy.
I am, Gentlemen, your humble servant,
JAMES EASTOX.
N. B. Tis necessary that provisions for the troops be provided immedi-
ately, and also a number of the military laws lately made by the Congress.
J. EASTON.
714 TICONDEROGA AISD CROWN POINT.
Governor TrumliiU to the Provincial Congress.
Hartford, June 1, 1775.
Gentlemen: — Your letter of the 29th May, by Mr. Sheppard, is received,
and I observe your agitation occasioned by the resokition of the General Con-
gress, touching Ticonderoga and Crown Point. It was looked on in the
same light lierc, 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 could scarcely be tenable. The expressions of the
resolution are not clear. The Provincial Congress at New York, take them
to mean no more than the removing the suiJernumerary cannon and stores
from those tw o fortresses to the south end of Lake George ; but, not to
leave or abandon those two important posts. Mine of the 29th of May, by
Mr. Brown, informs w hat hath been resolved here, which is fully approved by
the Provincial Congi'css 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 utmost assistance for securing those important posts,
for the common defence of our rights and liberties. Our general assenjbly
Avas 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
know ledge : please to direct for me at Lebanon. 1 congratulate you on the
union and increasing harmony of these North American colonies, and the
wonderful concurrence and coincidence of coimsels amongst them. May
our hearts be united in humble thankfulness therefor.
I am, w ith gieat truth and regard. Gentlemen,
Your most obedient humble servant,
JONATHAN TRUMBULL.
The honorable Provincial Congress of Massachusetts Bay.
Col. Easton to the Provincial Congress.
Crown Point, June G, 1775.
Respectable Gentlemen: — It is of the utmost importance to the united
colonies to cultivate harmony and iriendship w ith the Canadians and their
Indians. I have ])ainfully exerted myself to procure and secure it I have
Bent you a copy of a letter Col. Allen and n)} self wrote to the Canadians.
It appears to me of importance, that your honors should be acquainted with
the stale of jiolicy and of facts You will discover, by perusing the enclosed,
that a |)arty of C.madiaiis made an attack u]:on our recounoitering party,
fcince that, Mr. I'erris, an inhabitant of the New Hampshire Grants, has
TICONDEIIOGA AND CROWN POINT. 715
1(0011 nt iMontroiil, and ii'liiriR<l to tliis |>l.ic»! ; lie is a iiiaii I can conlidf ni,
and lio inloiins that Saint Lnke La Corno, who acted many haiijaritios to-
•vvnrd.s onr |»oo|)lo the last war, for which lie was sainted, lias been usin<^
Jiis utmost inlliience to excite tlic ( 'aiindiaiis and Indians to take part in the
war a^'ainst the iinitod colonies ; and that he, and Capt IMcCoy ulio com-
manded the Canadian attack, liave made hut littUi prolicieiicy. Most of the
said jiarty of Canadians were appointed ollicers, but (!ould 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 Saint Johns, near two iiiindred regulars, and join-
ed Capt. McCoy's party of about fifty Canadians, who liave been mentioned
as assailants on the reconnoiteriiiff party, and 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 will inevitably fix and confirm the Canadians and Indians in our inter-
est. Nothing gives me so much concern, as the mistaken policy in our
worthy Congress and assemblies, who, for want of the real knowledge of
certain facts, imagine, that to push an army thither would offend the Cana-
dians and incense them against the colonies. The armed vessels are ad-
vanced to the north part of the lake to command it, and, consequentl)', to
guard the frontier settlements thereon. We hear that Col. Hinman is ap-
pointed commander in chief of this department, and is marching hither with
a thousand men. These are joyful tidings to us. We hope they will prove
true ; for w'e cannot long conduct our ariny without it be regularly organized
with officers and under pay.
I am, Gentlemen, your most obedient humble servant,
JAMES EASTON.
To the honorable the Gentlemen of the Provincial Cong7-ess, or,
Committee of Safety, at JValertown and Cambridge.
Proclamalion of Cols. Allen and Easton.
Ticonderoga, June 1, 1775.
To our worthy and respectable friends and countrymen, the French people of
Canada, Greeting :
Friends, Fellow Subjects, and Countrymen : — You ai'e, undoubtedly,
more or less acquainted with the unnatural and unhappy controversy sub-
sisting between Great Britain and her colonies, the particulars of which, in
this letter, we do not pretend to expatiate upon ; but refer you to the consid-
eration of the justice and equitableness of our cause from your former ac-
quaintance with the merits of it. We need only observe, that the inhabi-
tants of the colonies viewed the controversy on their part to be justifiable in
the sight of God and all unprejudiced and honest men, that have or may
71G TICONDEROGA AND CROWN POINT.
have opportunity and ability to examine into the ground of it. Fixed in this
princij)le, tliose inhabitants are resolved to vindicate their cause at the haz-
ard of their lives and fortunes, but have not the least disposition to injure,
molest, or, in any way, deprive our fellow subjects, the Canadians, of either
liberty or proj)crty; nor have they any design to wage war with them; and,
on the other hand, irom all the intelligence that the inhabitants of the said
colonies have received from the Canadians, it has appeared that they were
alike disposed for friendship, or at least 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 reconnoitering party, consisting of four men ; fired
on and pursued them until they returned the fire. This is the account of
the party who have all arrived at head quarters. We desire to know of any
gentleman of the Canadians, the facts of the case, if they be different : as
one story must be allowed to be good till another is told. Our general or-
ders to the soldiers were, that they should not, on pain of death, molest or
kill any of your people. But if it shall appear, upon examination, that the
reconnoitering party commenced hostilities against you, they shall suffer,
agreeably to the sentence of a court martial : for our special orders from the
colonies were, 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 unde-
sirable to the iidiabitants of these colonies, than a war with their fellow sub-
jects, the Canadians, or with the Indians. You are, undoubtedly, very sensi-
ble that a war has already commenced between Great Britain and the colo-
nies : hostilities have already begun. To fight the king's troops has become
inevitable. The colonies cannot avoid it. But pray, is it necessary the peo-
ple of your countiy and ours should butcher each other? God forbid.
There are no controversies subsisting between us. Pray let old England
and the colonies fight it out, and the Canadians stand by and see what the arm
of fiesh 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 apfirove
of the aforesaid hostile conduct of your people ; as we conceive it impolitic,
to the last degree, for the Canadians to enter into a bloody war with the
English colonies, without either provocation or motive ; but every motive of
interest, virtue, and honor, to dissuade you from it. To conclude, we appre-
hend St. Luke La Corne, Monsieur Ronvelo, and Capt. ]McCoy, the last of
whom commanded the Canadian party aforesaid, and probably some others,
whose interest it is to irritate and excite your people to take up arms against
the colonies, have inveigled some of the baser sort already to attack the said
four men as before related. We expect, gentlemen, as to these particulars,
you will, in good time, favor us with an answer, and in the interim, we sub-
scribe ourselves your unfeigned friends,
ETHAN ALLEN, > At present, the principal Command-
JAMES E ASTON, S ing Officers of the Army.
TICONDEROGA AND CROWN POINT. 717
A roj)y of the Icttrr that we Hcnt to tJie Cniindians, to l»c rormnunicated to
thorn ill print, truiisluteii into French hy tlie favor of Mr. Wiilkcr, our friend
nt Montreal. Tliis we siihniit to your honor's consideration.
Voiirs, at coniinand,
Kthax Am. en,
James Eastok.
Report ofllic Coinmiltce sent to Ticonderoga-
Carnbridge, July G, 1775.
The committee appointed to proceed to the posts of Ticonderoga and
Crown Point, \:c.,i beg leave to report, that they j)roceeded through the new
settlements called the New Hampshire Grants, and carefully observed the
road through the same, and find that there is a good road from Williams-
to\VTi to the place where the road crosseth the river called Paulet river,
which is about fifteen miles from Skenesborough ; from thence to the falls
at Wood Creek near Major Skene's house, the road is not feasible, and is
unfit for carriages, but cattle may be driven that way very well.
Your committee, having taken with ihem the copies of the commission
and instructions from the committee of safety to Col. Benedict Arnold, and
informed themselves, as fully as they were able, in what manner he had ex-
ecuted his said commission and instructions, have found that he was with
Col. Allen, and others at the time the fort was reduced ; but do not find that
he had any men under his command at the time of the reduction of those
fortresses ; but find that he did, afterwards, possess himself of the sloop on
the lake. At Saint Johns we found the said Arnold, claiming the command
of said sloop, and a schooner, w hich is said to be the property of Major
Skene; and also all the posts and fortresses at the south end of Lake Cham-
plain and Lake George, although Col. Hinman was at Ticonderoga, with
near a thousand men under his command at the several posts,
r Your committee informed the said Arnold of their commission, and, at
his request, gave him a copy of their instructions; upon reading of which,
he seemed greatly disconcerted, and declared he would not be second in
command to any person whomsoever ; and after some time contemplating
upon the matter, resigced his post, and gave your committee his resignation
under his hand, dated the 24th of June ; which is submitted, and, at the
same time, he ordered his men to be disbanded, which he said were between
two and three hundred. Your committee, not finding any men regularly un-
der said Arnold, by reason of his so disbanding them, appointed Col. Kas-
ton, who was at Ticonderoga, to take the command under Col. Hinman, who
was the jirincipal commanding officer, at those posts, of tlie Connecticut for-
ces, and endeavored to give the officers and men who had served under
(1) The instructions to Walter Spooner, Jedcdiah Foster, and James Sullivan, Esquires, the
committee, are entered in the JournaU of Congress, June 13, )775, ante page 327.
718 TICONDEROGA AND CROWN POINT.
said Arnold, an opportunity to reenlist ; of whom, numbers enlisted and sev-
eral of the officers agreed to hold their command under the new appoint-
ment.
Your committee, having taken a critical survey of the garrison and posts
of Ticonderoga and Crown Point, found thein in a very defenceless state,
and after consulting with Col. Ilinuian, were of opinion, upon the whole,
that it is necessary to retain in the service of this colony, for the present, the
number of four hundred men, as the committee were informed from intelli-
gence from Canada, that great preparations were making and all endeavors
used to bring over the Canadians and savages to be inimical to these colo-
nies.
Your committee having found Capt. Noble at the Point, with a number of
men who had been under said Arnold, wilhng to engage in the service, we
paid to said Noble, one hundred pounds, to be delivered to the men, as ad-
vance pay ; and appointed Mr. William Satterly, a worthy man, to muster
them and inspect their anus; and took Capt. Noble's and Satterly's receipt
for the same, and their promise to apply it for that purpose.
Your committee returning to Ticonderoga, and Col. Easton being there,
they paid into his hands the sum of two hundred and eighty pounds, to be
applied for the purpose aforesaid, and took his receipt and promise so to do ;
and api)ointed Mr. Jonas Fay, a respectable person, to muster the men and
their arms, all except Capt. Noble's company. We also paid into the hands
of one Remember Baker, said to be a good officer, who engaged a certain
number of men under Col. Easton, the sum of twenty pounds, and took his
receipt and promise to apply said money as advance pay to said men ; which
completes the whole of the money delivered to said committee for the pur-
poses aforesaid.
Your committee have engaged to Col. Easton, that the remaining part of
the advance pay should be immediately sent to him.
Your committee found, that as soon as Col. Arnold had disbanded his
men, some of them became dissatisfied and mutinous, and many of them
signified to the committee, that they had been informed that they were to be
defrauded of their pay for past services. The committee, in order to quiet
them, engaged, under their hands, in behalf of the colony of the Massachu-
setts Bay, that as soon as the rolls should be made up and properly authen-
ticated, they should be paid for their past services, and all those who should
engage anew, should have the same bounty and wages as is promised to
those who servo within said colony.
Your committee inquired of Mr. Henry Bleeker, of Albany, how the men
at those posts were suj)plied with provisions ; who informed us, that he act-
ed under his brother, who was commissioner of supplies from New York;
that all the men at those stations, of whatsoever colony, were sup})lied by
him, without distinction, and that he should continue so to supply, until
otherwise directed.
Your committee appointed Timothy Edwards, and Samuel Brown, Esq'rs,
a committee to supply the men under Col. Easton's command, with such
TICONDEROGA AND CROWN POINT. 711)
necessaries as sliould not Im; supplied fioiii Nvw York ; aiui appointed CapU
Elislia Pliulps, to net as commissary under tlicin, to deal out to tiic men
■\vliatsoover sliould he supplied l>y tlie said Kdwards and J{ro\vn.
Your committee, heing of opinion, tiiut a major should he appointed under
Col. Kaston, and one surf;eon to the hatlalion, and having incpiired into the
disposition of the t)nicers and men \\\\o have engaged, have ai»|)ointed John
Brown, Esq., as major, and Air. Jonas Fay, as surgeon.
Y'^our connnittce, when they had received Col. Arnold's resignation, di-
rected him to return to Congress and render an account of his proceedings,
agreeahly to their instructions, a copy of which order is herewith suhmitted.
Your connniltee made an examination of the military stores at those posts,
a schedule whereof is herewith delivered, excepting some lead and iron
balls, and old chains, which have been dug out of the ruins of Crown Point
fort,
Y'our connnittce, finding that the men at those stations had not a sufficien-
cy of gunpowder to del'cnd the posts, and upon a careful inquiry not finding
any at Albany, have directed said committee of supplies to supply two hun-
dred weight liom some of the town stocks in the county of Beikshire, on
the credit of the colony.
Your connnittee are of opinion, that the maintaining of those posts is of
the utmost importance to the security of the colony of New Y'ork and the
New England colonies, which was a sufficient inducement to the committee
to continue in the pay of this colony the number of men before mentioned.
The fortres.ses not being at present tenable, then tliere must be a sufficient
number of men to command the lake, and prevent the enemy from landing.
Your committee are of opinion, that the best security of those posts in
there present state, is by armed vessels of various construction, to be kept
constantly cruising on the lake, and small boats with swivel guns to act as
scouts, which will effijctually prevent the army from sudden surprise.
Y^our committee liave, agreeably to their instructions, advised tlie Hon.
American Congress, the lion. Convention of the colony of New York, and
the governor of Connecticut, by respectfully signifying to them, their opin-
ion of the importance of the maintaining those posts, and the measures for
effecting the same.
All which is humbly submitted,
WALTER SPOONER, by ordir.
Return of Ordnance Stores at Crown Point.
Seven punches for vents of guns ; three scoops for shells ; one pair brass
scales ; Iburteen mallets ; one set of measures lor powder ; three hundred
and ten jiounds of slow match; one hundred, eighteen-pound shot; five
hundred and eighty, twelve-pound shot; five hundred and eighty, nine-pound
shot ; five hundred and eighty, six-pound shot ; one thousand four hundred
720 TICONDEROGA AND CROWN POINT.
and thirty grape shot ; sixty-eight, eight-inch shells ; three hundred and sev-
enty, six-inch shells; six sponges with ramrods; six waggon bodies; nine
hundred and six wheels ; twenty-two wadhooks with ramrods ; one cross-
cut saw ; one whip saw.
Stores at Ticonderoga.
Three guns and triangles ; six gages for twelve-pound shot ; three copper
hoops ; six copper ladles ; twelve iron ladles ; shells, shot, &c., in vast
quantities.
June 23, 1775.
The Committee to Benedict Arnold.
Crown Point, June 23, 1775.
Sir: — ^You having signified to the committee who are appointed and di-
rected by the Provincial Congress of Massachusetts Bay, to inquire into the
state of the fortresses of Crown Point, Ticonderoga, &c. and the appenda-
ges thereotj your resolution to resign all your command of the said for-
tresses, and the vessels and stores thereiuito belonging, lor reasons under
your hand expressed, this is to inform you, that it is the expectation of the
Provincial Congress aforesaid, that the chief officer of the Connecticut
forces at those stations, will command the same lor the present: and the
committee accordingly expect that you will conform yourself to the direc-
tions of said Congress in that behalf, and deliver the same to such chief
officer of the Connecticut forces, or his order, for which this shall be your
authority. The committee expect that you will, as soon as may be, lay an
account of your disbursements before the Provincial Congress, agreeably to
our instructions, a copy whereof is lodged with you.
By order of the committee.
WALTER SPOONER, Chairman.
Col. Benedict Arnold.
The Committee to the Continental Congi-ess.
Ticonderoga, June 23, 1775,
To the honorable the President, and the members of the American Congress, now
sitting at Philadelphia.
May it pi-ease your honors: — The Congress of the colony of the Mas-
sachusetts Bay, on the fourteenth day of June last, appointed Walter
Spooner, Jedediah Foster, and James Sullivan, a committee to repair to the
fortresses of Ticonderoga and Crown Point, on Lake Champlain, to inquire
into the importance of holding those posts, and also into the method by
which they may be maintained ; to establish there, in the pay of said coIo-
TlCUNDEllOCi A AM) CROWN POINl'. 7il
iiy, su muiiy men to defend tlie Hunie jiosts us tliey should judge necesiiury,
not exceeding lour linndicd ; and tlie said connnittee were ulso, by said
t^ongi-css directed, when they .•sliowld have made tiieniHelves I'ully ac(|uainl-
ed with the situation and importance of said posts, respi-ctfidly to sigiiity
their tlioughts tliereon to your honors.
Wheretbre, by order of said connnittee, 1 take hjavc to inform you, that it
is tiie opinion of said connnittee, sucii is the importance of those fortresses,
that siiould tiiey once be in the hands of t\u'. enemies to America, the colo-
ny of New York, together with tiie New Enghind colonies, would be in
contimial danger of having depredations committed on them, by the regu-
lar forces, who would be possessed of those garrisons ; and should the Ca-
nadians and savagt!S, who, we hope, are not yet at enmity with us, be in-
clined to take part with the ministerial army, tiie distress of the colonies,
belbre mentioned, must be extremely great.
A garrison at the south end of Lake George, however tenable, could be
of but little service to the Ne .v England colonies : because the most easy
route for an army from Quebec into New England, would be through Lake
Cham|)lain to South Uay, from whence they might travel by land through
the new settlements of New York into the New England governments,
destroy the frontier towns iu their mai'ch, drive the farmers from their
fields, prevent the large supplies of wheat and other necessaries which may
soon be expected from these new settlements, and send distress and famine
into the heart ot the country : and this all without being, on a right line,
within many miles of the south end ot" Lake (ieorge.
I am also directed, by said committee, to signify to your honors, that it is
the opiiuon of the committee, that the defence of those fortresses must be
supported by liolding command of Lake Champlain, whicli, they conceive,
may be most easily done, by liaving vessels, of various constructions, well
maimed and armed, floating there : for whicli purpose, the committee have
stationed four hundred men there, which are all that the embarrassed cir-
cumstances of our colony can at present admit ofj to co-operate with near a
thousand, under tlie command of Col. Hinman, who is sent to those posts
by the government of Connecticut ; but whetiier the forces now^ on the lake
are sutiicient for the purposes aforementioned, your honors will judge.
1 am, iu behalf of the committee.
Your honors' most humble servant,
WALTER SPOONER, Chairman.
To Ihc honorable Continental C'o/iffress.
91
722 TICONDEROGA AND CROWN POINT.
Tht Committee, to Gov. Trumbull.
Springfield, July 3, 1775.
May it pleasf, your honors: — When the Congress of the colony of
the Massachusetts Bay were informed that your government had sent Coh
Hinman to Lake Cliamplain, with a tliousand men, to defend the important
posts there, it was with tlie deepest concern that they saw he was not com-
mander in chief of the fortresses and their appendages : and immediately
despatched a committee, whereof I had the honor to he chairman, to let the
commander of their forces know that it was the expectation of our Con-
gress, that the commander in chief of the Connecticut forces should be
over our officers and privates : the committee was also ordered respectfully
to signify to your honor, their opinion of the necessity of holding those for-
tresses, as also of the most expedient method to do it.
Whereupon, they proceeded, and at Crown Point let Col. Arnold know,
that it was expected that he should give up the command of the garrison,
&c. to Col. Hinman, and be under him as officer there : but he declined it :
declared lie would not be second to any man : disbanded his ibices, and re-
signed his commission. A niajoritj' of his men engaged anew under Col.
James Easton, who the committee appointed under the commander of the
forces of your government, on Lake Champlain, and to be regulated by
your martial laws ; and the committee left the garrison and appendages in
peace, with much satisfaction, commanded by Col, Hinman, who, they are
confident, is fully equal to the appointment.
The committee also order me to inform your honor, that it is their opin-
ion, that the abandoning the posts on Lake Champlain, would probably
prove the utter ruin of the New England governments, and that they appre-
hend armed vessels, floating batteries, &c. will be the surest means of com-
manding the lakes. The committee would write your honor more fully on
the subject, but they are convinced, from the letters you have favored our
Congress with, that you are fully possessed of the importance of holding
those fortresses.
Justice compels the committee to let your honor know, that on Col. Ar-
nold's refusing to serve under Col. Hinman, a mutiny arose among some of
Arnold's men, who would not engage anew in our service, which seemed to
be attended with dangerous symptoms, but by the noble exertions of the
officers of your government, with those of Judge Duer, of Charlotte coun-
ty, in the colony of New York, and the ami)le support by tliem rendered to
the committee, in the most difficult situation, it was happily quelled ; the par-
ticulars of it are too tedious and disagreeable to trouble your honor's atten-
tion, Avhile you have constantly business of the last importance before
you.
But thus much the committee order me to take leave to say, that from
the polite, generous and manly disposition of Col. Hinman, and the officers
in the Connecticut Ibices under him, we may gather the most haj)py pros-
riCONDKROGA AND CIIOWN POINT. ri:J
pects of a cuiiipaigii in tin; unitliward luplctu witli lioiior ami liitfi«'<t to tin;
colonies.
I am, iti bi'lialf of the committco,
Your honor's most obedient servant,
VVALTJJR SPOON ER, Chairman.
Hon. Jonathan TrunibuU.
The Coinmiltie to tlie Congress of J^tw York.
♦ SpRi.NCiKiELu, Jli.y 3, 1775.
To the honorable tfu. President and Members of the Convention of the Colony of
JVew York.
Gentlemen: — Notwithstanding the many calamities that the colony of
the Massacluisetts Bay now struggles mider, the Congress there are reso-
lutely determined to leave nothing within their power undone, which may
have even a probable tendency to preserve the rights and property of the
American colonies. In pursuance of this resolution, they, on the 14th day
of June, appointed a connuittee, whereof I have the lionor to be ciiairinan,
to proceed to Ticonderoga and Crown Point, to inquire into the importance
of holding those posts, and, among other things, respectfully to signify to
you their thoughts on the subject. The committee have made such inqui-
ries as they were directed to jirosecute, and have ordered me to take leave
to inform you, that it is their opinion, should the fortresses on Lake Cham-
plain fall into the hands of our enemies, the colony of New York, with the
New England colonies, must be in the utmost insecurity, for the enemy
might land at the southern end of a part of the waters of Lake Chaniplain,
called South Ray, from whence, as Fort Edward is razed to the lbun<hition,
there is nothing to check them, or prevent their sjjreading lire and devasta-
tion down to Albany, and over all the frontier towns eastward, in New York
and the New England colonies: wherefore, it is the opinion of the commit-
tee, that all possible care ought to be taken to keep the command of Lake
Champlain, which, perhaps, may be more easily efiected by armed vessels
of various constructions, than otherwise.
The committee has established on the lakes, in the pay of the Massachu-
setts colony, four hundred effective men, with proper officers, which are all
that the distressed state of the colony, at present, admit of: which regiment,
from tiie peculiar embarrassments which tiiat colony is now laboring under,
must look for present su[)plies of i)rovisions to the colony of New Y'ork.
While the committee was at the posts above mentioned, there was a
dangerous mutiny set on foot by some persons, employed by Col. Arnold, an
officer of our colony, who had their own interest more at heart than the
public good, which, had it not been for the influence and well timed exer-
tions of Judge Duer, a gentleman of the county of Charlotte, in your colo-
ny, and the principal officers of the Connecticut forces, might have been at-
724 TICONDEROGA AND CROWN POINT.
tended with fatal consequences. As the committee suppose the colony to
be under great obligations to that Avorthy gentleman, they cannot but inform
his own government of his zealous exertions for the public good.
We are, Gentlemen, with great respect.
Your obedient humble servants,
WALTER SPOONER, Chairman.
Hon. Provincial Congress of J^teto York.
Provincial Congi-ess of Aeii> York to the Committee of Safety.
In Provincial Congress, New York, June 7, 1775.
Gentlemen: — The multiplicity of business brought before us by the
Continental Congress, and a short adjournment of our body, from Saturday
till Tuesday morning, have rendered it impossible for us to give a more early
attention to your favor.
We have little to say upon the principal subject of your letter, as we
conceive that the Provincial Congresses of both colonies are concluded
from any discretionary provision relative to the ordnance and other stores
taken at Crown Point and Ticouderoga, 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
honor of those, who being the avowed instruments of ministerial vengeance,
we cannot expect will hold any faith with us. Whatever articles we are
now possessed of, that may be used to the 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 pre-
vent this city from being reduced to the same deplorable situation, and shall
watchfully 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, Esq., and the
Committee of Safety for the colony of Massachusetts Bay, Waiertovm.
TICONDKROtJA AND CROWN POIN T. ViT,
J{esolvt3 of the Continental Coiurress.
May 30, 177.'j.
A letter from Col. Aniold, dated Crown Point, .May 2:^, 1775, was laid be-
fore the Congress, inforining that he had certain intelligence, that "on the
I'Jth tliere were tJjen four hundred regulars at St John's, making all possi-
ble preparation to cross the lake, and expected to be joined by a number of
Indians, with a design of retaking Crown Point and Ticonderoga," and
earnestly calling for a reeuforccment and supplies. This letter being taken
into consideration,
Resolved, That the governor of Connecticut be requested immediately to
send a strong reenforcement to the garrisons of Crown Point and Ticonde-
roga, and that so many of the cannon and other stores be retained, as may
he necessary for the immediate defence of those posts, until further order
from this Congress, and that the provincial convention of New York be in-
formed of this resolve, and desired to furnish tliose troops with provisions
and other necessarj' stores, and to take effectual care that a sufficient num-
ber of batteaux be immediately provided for the lakes.
Ordered, That the above resolve be immediately transmitted in a letter by
the president, to Gov. Trumbull, and the convention at New York.
Ordered^ That the president in his letter acquaint Gov. Trumbull, that it is
the desire of Congress, that he should appoint a person, in whom he can
confide, to command the forces at Crown Point and Ticonderoga.
Jl'.ne 1, 1775.
Upon motion, Resolved, That it be recommended to the government of
Connecticut, or the general of the forces of that colony, to appoint commis-
saries to receive at Albany and forward the supplies of provisions, for the
forces on Lake Champlain, from the provincial convention of New York,
and that the said convention use their utmost endeavors in facilitating and
aiding the transportation thereof, from thence to where the said commissa-
ries may direct.
Joe 8, 1775.
The Congress being informed that a Major Skene, with some other offi-
cers, who arrived last evening, in a vessel from London, were, with their
papers, in the custody of the troops of this city ; that the said Skene had
lately been appointed governor of the forts of Ticonderoga and Crown
Point ; that one of the officers with him is a lieutenant in the regulars, now
in the province of Quebec ; and moreover, that the said Skene had declared
that he has authority to raise a regiment in America; from all this, appre-
hending that the said Skene is a dangerous partizan of administration, and
that his papers may contain intelligence of ministerial designs against
America, very important to be known.
Resolved, That a committee be appointed to examine the papers of the
said Skene and lieutenant, in their presence.
That the committee consist of Mr. J, Adams, Mr. Deane, and Mr. ISIilTlin.
726 TICONDEROGA AND CROWN POINT.
That the said committee be upon honor to conceal whatever, of a private
nature, may come to their knowledge by such examination ; and that they
communicate, to this Congress, what they shall discover relative to the pres-
ent dispute, between Great Bi-itain and America.
June 10, 1775.
The committee for examuiing Gov. Skene's letters, &c., having communi-
cated to Congress what they found relative to the dispute between Great
Britain and these colonies :
Upon motion, Resolved, That Gov. Phili]) Skene, Lieutenant Moncrief,
and Mr. Lundy, be released from their present confinement, and permitted
to go at large any where within eight miles of the city, between Delaware
and Schuylkill, on their parole of honor, not to pass those limits, and that
they will hold uo coiTespoudence with any person whatsoever, on any polit-
ical subject.
June ]9, 1775.
The president laid before the Congress, sundry letters he had received
from Massachusetts Bay and New York, wbich were read.
The letters from Massachusetts Bay being taken into consideration, the
Congress came to the following resolve :
That the governor of Connecticut be requested to du'ect all the forces
raised in that colony, not employed at Ticonderoga and Crown Point, or re-
commended by this Congress to be marched towards New York, to be im-
mediately sent to join the combined army before Boston, And it is earn-
estly recommended to the colony of Rhode Island, and to the provincial
convention of New Hampshire, to send immediately to the army before Bos-
ton, such of the forces as are already embodied, towards their quotas of the
troops agreed to be raised by the New England colonies.
June 22, 1775.
A letter from Crown Point, dated June 10, was laid before the Congress
and read. Information being given, that two officers who brought the let-
ter were at the door, and had some things of importance to communicate,
Ordered, That they V)e introduced, and they were introduced. After they
withdrew, the Congress came to the following resolutions :
Resolved, That it be recommended to the officer commanding in the New
York department, to procure, as soon as possible, a list of the men em[)loy-
ed in taking and gaiTisoning Crown Point and Ticonderoga, and keeping
})ossession of the lakes, and also of their disbursements, in order that they
may be paid.
Resolved, That their pay be the same as that of the officers and i)rivates
in the American army ; the highest of the officers not to exceed that of a
cajjtain, and that the pay commence the third day of May last, and continue
till they are discharged.
Resolved, That it be recommended to the convention of New York, that
they, consulting with General Schuyler, employ in the army to be raised for
the defence of America, those called Green Mountain Boys, under such offi-
cers as the said Green Mountain Boys shall choose.
EXTRACTS
I'ltOM THE
JOURNALS OF THE CONTINENTAL CONGRESS
KKLATING TO MASSACHUSETTS:
Sept. 14, 1774.
The delegates from tlie province of Massachusetts Bay, agreeable to a re-
quest from the joint committees of every town and district in the county of
INIiddicsex, in the said luovince, communicated to the Congress the proceed-
ings of thoye committees at Concord, on the 30th and 31st days of August
last, which were read.
Sept. 17, 1774.
The resolutions entered into by the delegates from the several towns and
districts in the county of Sulfulk, in the j)rovince of the Massachusetts Bay,
on Tuesday, the (ith of September, and their address to his excellency gov-
ernor Gage, dated the 9th, were laid before the Congress.
The Congress taking the resolutions into considcz-ation.
Resolved, ^manimonsly, That this assembly deejjly feels the suffering of
tlieir countrymen in the Massachusetts Bay, under the operation of tlie late
imjust, cruel, and oppressive acts of tiic British parliament — that they most
ihorougldy approve tlie wisdom and fortitude, with which ojjposition to
these wicked ministerial measures has hitherto been conducted, and they
earnestly recommend to tlieir brethren, a perseverance in the same firm and
temperate conduct, as expressed in the resolutions determined upon at a
meeting of the delegates for the county of Sutfolk, on Tuesday, the (idi in-
stant, trusting that the effect of the united efforts of North America in their
behalf, will carry such conviction to the British nation, of the unwise, un-
just, and ruinous policy of the present administration, as ([uickly to intro-
duce better men and wiser measures.
Note.— Several resolutions of the Continental Congress, closely connected with tlie proceedings
of the Provincial Congress, or its committees, have heen inserted in their appropriate i)laces : May
17, 1775, relating to cxportations to the British dominion?, ante page 313 : May 29, 1775, respecting
exportations to the island of Nantucket, page 313 ; June 9, 1775, for furnishing flour ; and June 10,
1775, for encouraging the manufacture of gunpowder, page 354 ; June 9, 1775, for assuming govern-
ment, page 359 ; ."May 18, 1775, relating to the stores at Ticonderoga, page 706 ; and other resolves
relating to Ticonderoga and Crown Point, pages 7'2i — 3 — C.
728 JOURNAL OF THE CONTINENTAL CONGRESS.
Resolved, unanimously, That contributious from all the colonies for supply-
ing the necessities, and alleviating the distresses of our brethren at Boston,
ought to be continued, in such manner, and so long as their occasions may
require.
Ordered, That a copy of the above resolutions be transmitted to Boston by
the president.
Ordered, That these resolutions, together with the resolutions of the coun-
ty of Suffolk, be published in the newspapers.
October 6, 1774.
The Congress resumed the consideration of the means proper to be used
for a restoration of American rights. During this debate, an express from
Boston arrived with a letter from the committee of correspondence, dated
the 29th of September, which was laid before the Congi-ess.
In this the committee of correspondence inform the Congress, that they
" expected some regard would have been paid to the petitions presented to
their govei^uor, against fortifying their town in such a manner as can be ac-
counted for only upon the supposition, that the town and country are to be
treated by the soldiery as declared enemies — that the enti-enchments upon
the Neck are nearly completed — that cannon are mounted at the entrance of
the town — that it is currently reported, that fortifications are to be erected
on Copp's hill, Beacon hill. Fort hill, &c., so that the fortifications, with the
ships in the harbor may absolutely command every avenue to the town both
by sea and land — that a number of cannon, the property of a private gentle-
man, were a few days ago seized and taken from his wharf by order of the
general — that from several circumstances mentioned in the letter, there is
reason to apprehend, that Boston is to be made and kept a garrisoned town ;
— that from all they can hear fi'om Britain, administration is resolved to do
all in their power to force them to a submission — that when the town is in-
closed, it is apprehended the inhabitants will be held as hostages for the sub-
mission of the country — they apply therefore to the Congress lor advice how
to act — that, if the Congress advise to quit the town, they obey — if it is
judged that by maintaining their ground they can better serve the public
cause, they will not shrink from hardship and danger — finally, that as the
late acts of parliament have made it imj)ossible that there should be a due
administration of justice, and all law therefore must be suspended — that as
the governor has by proclamation prevented the meeting of the general
court, they therefore request the advice of the Congress."
October 7, 1774.
The Congress resumed the consideration of the letter from the committee
of correspondence in Boston, and after some debate —
Resolved, That a committee be appointed to prepare a letter to his excel-
lency General Gage, representing "that the town of Boston and province of
Massachusetts Bay, are considered by all America as sufferine in the com-
JOURNAL OF 11 1 1: CONTINENTAL CONGRESS. V-29
mon cniisi'Jor tlitir iioltlc and .■jpiritrd opposition to oppressive actx of parlia-
ment cal(Miluti-(l to tl«'|irivf ns ofonr nn>st sacred rights and privilcfics." 2d.
£jcpressin<j; our concern, tliat, uiiilc the Coiifrress are delilieratin^ on the most
peaceable means for restoring American liberty, and that liarmony and in-
tercourse, wliicli subsisted between us and tlie parent kin!.'dom so necessary
to both, hi'^ e.\c«'iUMicy, as liiey are inlbrined, is raisin-j I'urtitications round
the town of Hoston, thereiiy excitirifr wi-li irrountled jealousies in the niiiuls
of his majesty's tiiitliful subjects therein, that he means to cut uH'all commu-
nication between tiiem and their brethren in the country, and reduce them
to a state of sui)mission to his will, and that the soldiers under his excellen-
cy's command, are fretpiently violatitij; private projierty, and oflering various
insults to the people, w hich must irritate their minds, and if not ])ut a stop
to, involve all America in the horrors of a civil war — To entreat Ijis excellen-
cy, from the assurance we have of the peaceable disposition of the inhabi-
tants of the town of Hoston and the province of the IMassachusctts Bay, to
discontinue his Ibrtifications, and that a tree and safe communication be re-
stored and continued between the town of Boston and tiie country, and pre-
vent all injuries on the part of the troops, until his majesty's pleasure shall
be known, after the measures now adopting shall have been laid before him.
]Mr. Lynch, Mr. S. Adams, and Mr. Pendleton, are appointed a committee
to diaught a letter agreeable to the foregoing resolution.
October 8, 1774.
The Congress resumed the consideration of the letter from Boston, and
upon motion,
Resolved^ That this Congress approve the opposition of the inhabitants of
the Massachusetts Bay, to the execution of the late acts of parliament; and
if the same shall be attempted to be carried into execution by force, in such
case, all America ought to support them in their opposition.
October 10, 1774.
The Congress resuming the consideration of the letter from Boston;
Resolved unanimousli/, Tliat it is the opinion of this body, that the removal
of the people of Boston into the country, would be, not only extremely diffi-
cult in the execution, but so important in its consequences, as to require the
utmost deliberation before it is adopted ; but in case the provincial meeting
of that colony should judge it absolutely necessary, it is the opinion of the
Congress, that all America ought to contribute towards reconq)ensing them
for the injury thev may thereby sustain ; and it will be reconunended ac-
cordingly.
Resolved, That the Congress recommend to the inhabitants of the colony
of Massachusetts Bay, to submit to a suspension of the administration of jus-
tice, where it cannot be procured in a legal and peaceable manner, under
92
730 JOURNAL OF THE CONTINENTAL CONGRESS.
the rules of tlieir present charter, and the laws of the colony founded there-
on.
Resolved unanimously, That ever}- person and persons whomsoever, who
shall take, accept, or act under any commission or authority, in any-wise de-
rived from the act passed in the last session of pailiament, changing the
form of government, and violating the charter of the province of Massachu-
setts Bay, ought to be held in detestation and abhorrence by all good men,
and considered as the wicked tools of that despotism, which is preparing to
destroy those rights, which God, nature, and compact, have given to America.
The committee brought in a draught of a letter to General Gage, and
the same being read and amended, was ordered to be copied, and to be
signed by the president in behalf of the Congress.
October 11, 1774.
A copy of the letter to General Gage, was brought into Congress, and
agreeable to order, signed by the president, and is as follows :
Philadelphia, October 10, 1774.
Sir : — The inhabitants of the town of Boston have informed us, the re])-
resentalives of his majesty's faithful subjects in all the colonies from Nova
Scotia to Georgia, that the fortifications erecting within that town, the fre-
quent invasions of private property, and the repeated insults they receive
from the soldiery, have given tl.em great reason to suspect a plan is formed
very destructive to them, and tending to overthrow the liberties of America.
Yom- excellency cannot be a stranger to the sentiments of America, ^^■ith
respect to the acts of jjai'liameut, under the execution of which, those un-
happy people are oppressed, the approbation universally expressed of their
conduct, and the determined resolution of the colonies, for the presersation
of their conunon rights, to unite in their opposition to those acts. — In conse-
quence of these sentunents, they have appointed us the guardians of their
rights and liberties, and we are under the deepest concern, that whilst we
are pursuing dutiful and peaceable measures to procure a cordial and eflectu-
al reconciliation between Great Britain and the colonies, your excellency
should proceed in a manner that bears so hostile an appearance, and which
even those oppressive acts do not warrant.
We entreat your excellency to consider what a tendency this conduct
must have to irritate and force a free people, hitlicrto well disposed to
peaceable measures, into hostilities, which may prevent the endeavors of
this Congress to restore a good understanding \\'nh our parent state, and
may involve us in the horrors of a civil war.
In Older therefore to quiet the minds and remove the reasonable jeal-
ousies ot the people, that they may not be driven to a state of desperation,
being fully persuaded of their pacific disposition towards the king's troops,
could tiiey be assured of their own safety, we liojie. Sir, you will discontin-
ue the ibitihcalions iu and about Boston, prevent any tui'ther invasions of
JOURNAL OF THE CONTINENTAL CONGRESS I'M
j)rivate |)roi>erty, restrain the irre^loritics of llie Bfjldierp, aiul give onlcra
that tlit> coiiiinuuicution Ijc-tweeii the town ami country may be open, tinino-
Icstcd and free.
Signed by order and in behalf of the General Congress,
PEYTON RANDOLPH, PresidentA
As the Congress have given General Gage an assurance of the peaceable
disposition of the people of Boston and the Massachusetts Bay ;
Resolved ttjianimously, That they be advised still to conduct themselves
peaceably towards his excellency General Gage, and his majesty's troops
now stationed in the town of Boston, as far as can possibly l>e consistent
with their immediate safety, and tlie security of the town ; avoiding and
discountenancing eveiy violation of his majesty's property, or any insult to
his troops, and that they peaceably and firmly persevere in the line they are
now conducting themselves, on the defensive.
Ordered, That a copy of the foregoing resolve, and of that passed on Sat-
urday, and the three passed yesterday, be made out, and that the president
(1) The following is tlie answer of General Gage to the letter of the Continental Congress.
Boston, Octobeb 20, 1774.
To Peyton Randolph, Esq. .-
Sib: — Representations should be made with candor, and matters stated exactly as they stand.
People would be led to believe, from your letter to me of the 10th instant, that works were raised
against the town of Boston, private property invaded, the soldiers suffered to insult the inhabi-
tants, and the communication between the town and country shut up and molested.
Nothing can be farther from the true situation of this place than the above state. There is not a
single gun pointed against the town, no man's property has been seized or hurt, except the king's,
by the people's destroying straw, bricks, &c., bought for bis service. No troops have given less
cause for complaint, and greater care was never taken to prevent it j and such care and attention
were never more necessary from the insults and provocations daily given to both officers and sol-
diers. The communication between the town and country has been always free and unmolested,
and is so still.
Two works of earth have been raised, at some distance from the town, wide off the road, and
guns put in them. The remainder of old works, going out of the town, have been strengthened, and
guns placed there likewise. People will think differently, whether the hostile preparation throughout
the country, and the menaces of blood and slaughter, made this necessary ; but I am to do my duty.
It gives me pleasure that you are endeavoring at o cordial reconciliation with the mother country,
which, from what has transpired, I have despaired of. Nobody wishes better success to such
measures than myself. I have endeavored to be a mediator, if I could establish a foundation to
work upon, and have strongly urged it to people here to pay for the tea, and send a proper memori-
al to the king, which would be a good beginning on their side, and give their friends the opportuni-
ty they seek to move in their support.
I do not believe that menaces, added to unfriendly proceedings, will have the effect which too many
conceive. The spirit of the British nation was high when I left England, and such meajuies will
not abate it. But I should hope that decency and moderation here would create the same disposi-
tion at home ; and I ardently wish that the common enemies to both countries may see, to their
disappointment, that these disputes between the mother country and the colonics have terminated
like the quarrels of lovers, and increased the affection which they ought to bear to each other.
I am, Sir, your most obedient humble servant,
THOM.\S GAGE.
732 JOURNAL OF THE CONTINENTAL CONGRESS.
inclose them in a letter to tlie committee of correspondence for the town" of
Boston, being the sentiments of the Congress on the matters referred to
them by the conimitree, in their letter of the 2!)th of September last.
Resolved itnanimously, That a memorial be prepared to the people of Brit-
ish America, stating to them the necessity of a firm, united, and invariable
observation of the measures recommended by the Congress, as they tender
the invaluable rights and liberties derived to them from the laws and consti-
tution of their country.
October 14, 1774
The Congress met according to adjournment, and resuming the consider-
ation of the subject under debate, made the following declai'ation and re-
solves :
Declaration of Rights.
Whereas, since the close of the last war, the British parliament, claiming
a power, of right, to bind the people of America by statutes in all cases
whatsoever, hath in some acts expressly imposed taxes on them, and in oth-
ers, under various pretences, but in fact for the purpose of raising a revenue,
hath imposed rates and duties payable in these colonies, established a board
of commissioners, with unconstitutional powers, and extended the jurisdic-
tion of courts of admiralty, not only for collecting the said duties, but 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 dependant on the crown
alone for their salaries, and standing armies kept in times of peace : And
whereas, it has lately been resolved in parliament, that by force of a statute,
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 trea-
sons and misprisions, or concealments of treasons committed in the colo-
nies, and by a late statute, such trials have been directed in cases therein
mentioned :
And whereas, in the last session of parliament, three statutes were made ;
one entitled, "an act to discontinue in such manner and tor such time as are
therein mentioned, the landing and discharging, lading, or shipping of goods,
wares, and merchandise, at the town, and within the harbor of Boston, in the
province of 3Iussacluisetts Bay in North America;" another entitled, "an
act for the better regulating the government of the province of Massachu-
setts Bay in New England ;" and another entitled, "an act for the impartial
administration of justice, in the cases of persons questioned for any act done
by them in the execution of the law, or for the suppression of riots and tu-
mults, in the province of the Massachusetts Bay in New England :" And
another statute was then made, " for making more effectual provision for
the government of the province of Quebec, &c." All which statutes are
impolitic, unjust, and cruel, as well as unconstitutional, and most dangerous
and destructive of American rights :
JOURNAL ni' rui: CONTINENTAL CONGIU^SS. IIJU
And ulicn-as, nssrnililit's lunr hcfii rrri|ii('iitly «lissol\e<J, roiitrarv I" lluj
ri{,'lit.s <»("tlic |ii'()|i|f, wlicii tlicy ut((-ii)|ilril to (Iclilirruti; on j,'rievimc«"H ; aiid
tiieir (iiititiil, liiiiiililc, loval, niid riii.soimlilc |i(titioiis to tliu crown liir re-
dress, liavo been rejwutedly treated \vitli <onlcnn)t, In Jiis inujeaty'8 tniniti-
tt-rs of state:
The good people of tlie sovcrnl colonics of New Hampsliiro, Mnssachu-
setts Buy, Kliode Island and Providence Plantations, Cniniectirnt, New
York, New Jcrwcy, Pennsylvania, Newcastle, Kent, and Sustii-x on Delaware,
Maryland, Virginia, Norlli Cuj-olina, and South Carolina, justly alarmed at
these arbitrary proceedings of |»arlianient and administration, have severally
elected, constituted, and ai)p<)int('d deputies to meet and sit in general con-
gress, in tlie city of" Philadfipliia, in order to obtain such estalilisjunent, as
that tlieir religion, laws, and lilterties, may not be subverted: Whereupon,
the deputies so appointed being now assembled, in a full and free represen-
tation of these colonies, taking into their most serious consideration, the best
means of attaining the ends aforesaid, do in the first place, as Englishmen,
their ancestors, in like cases, have usually done, for eflecting and vindicating
their rights and liberties, declare,
That the inhabitants of the English colonies in North America, by the
immutable laws of nature, the principles of the English constitution, and the
several charters or compacts, have the follow ing rights :
Resolved, .V. C. D. 1. That they are entitled to life, liberty, and property :
and they have never ceded to any sovereign power whatever, a right to dis-
pose of either without their consent.
Resolved, J\\ C D. 2. That our ancestors, who first settled these colonies,
were, at the time of tlieir emigration from the mother countiy, entitled to all
the rights, liberties, and imnumities of free and natural born subjects, within
the realm of England.
Resolved, .V. C. D. 3. That by such emigration they by no means forfeit-
ed, surrendered, or lost any of those rights, but that they were, and tJieir de-
scendants now are, entitled to the exercise and enjoyment of all such of
them, as their local and other circumstances enable them to exercise and
enjoy.
Resolved, 4. That the foundation of English liberty and of all free gov-
ernment, is, a right in the peojjle to participate in their legislative council :
and as the English colonists are not represented, and from their local and
other circumstances cannot j)ropcrly be represented in the British parlia-
ment, they are entitled to a free and exclusive power of legislation in their
several provincial legislatures, where their right of representation can alone
be preserved, in all cases of taxation and internal polity, subject only to the
negative of their sovereign, in such manner as has been heretofore used and
accustomed. But from the necessity of the case, and a regard to the mutu-
al interests of i)oth countries, we cheerfully consent to the operation of such
acts of the British i)arliainent, as are bona fide, restrained to the regulation of
oiu- external commerce, for the purpose of securing the commercial advan-
tages of the whole empire to the mother country, and the commercial liene-
734 JOURNAL OF THE CONTINENTAL CONGRESS.
fits of its respective members ; excluding every idea of taxation internal or
external, for raising a revenue on the subjects in America without their eon-
sent.
Resolved, A*. C. D. .'5. That the respective colonies are entitled to the
common law of England, and more especially to the great and inestima-
ble privilege of being tried by their peers of the vicinage, accordmg to the
course of that law.
Resolved, 6. That they ai-e entitled to the benefit of such of the English
statutes, as existed at the time of their colonization ; and which they have,
by experience, respectively found to be applicable to their several local and
other cii-cumstances.
Resolved, J\r. C. D. 7. That these, his majesty's colonies, are likewise
entitled to all the immunities and privileges granted and confirmed to them
by royal cjiarters, or secured by their several codes of provincial laws.
Resolved, A*. C. D. 8. That they have a right peaceably to assemble, con-
sider of their grievances, and petition the king ; and that all prosecutions,
prohibitory proclamations, and commitments for the same, are illegal.
Resolved, JV. C. D. 9. That the keeping a standmg army in these colonies,
in time of peace, without the consent of the legislature of that colony in
which such army is kept, is against law.
Resolved, JV. C. D. 10. It is indispensably necessary to good government,
and rendered essential by the English constitution, that the constituent
branches of the legislature be independent of each other ; that, therefore,
the exercise of legislative power in several colonies, by a council appointed
during pleasure, by the crown, is unconstitutional, dangerous, and destruc-
tive to the freedom of American legislation.
AH and each of which, 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, a\ ithout their own consent, by their repre-
sentatives in their several provincial legislatui'es.
In the course of our inquiry, we find many infringements and violations of
the foregoing rights, which, from an ardent desire that harmony and mutu-
al intercourse of 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, whicii demonstrate a system formed to enslave America.
Resolved, JV. C. D. That the following acts of parliament are infringe-
ments and violations of the rights of the colonists ; and that the repeal of
them is essentially necessary, in order to restore harmony between Great
Britain and the American colonies, viz. :
The several acts of 4 Geo. III. ch. 15. and ch 34.-5 Geo. III. ch. 25.-6
Geo. 111. ch. 52.-7 Geo. m. ch. 41. and ch. 4G.— 8 Geo. 111. ch. 22. which
imi)ose duties for the })urpose of raising a revenue in America, extend the
power of the admiralty courts beyond their ancient limits, deprive the
American subject of trial by jury, authorize the judges, certificate to indem-
nify tlie prosecutor from damages, that he might otherwise be liable to, re-
JOURNAL (H' I'm: CONTINENTAL CON(;KI:ss. I.i3
»liiinn^ i)])j)rrssivo scrmity from a rl.iitiinnt of ships and {.'(mmIk sfizod, Ik;-
I'ore lie sliall he allowctl lo dcreiid his jirojH'rly, and are sidtvcrsive of Amer-
ican rights.
Also, 12 Geo, 111. ch. ^4. entitled, "an act Cor the better securing his tnnj-
esty's dock-yards, magazines, sliips, ammunition, and stores," which de-
clares a new otlenci- in America, and deprives the Amrriean snlij<-ct of a
constitutional trial hy a jury of the vicinage, hy authorizing lh<; trial of any
person ciiarged with the committing any ollence described in the said act
out of the realm, to be indicted and tried for tlie same in any shire or coun-
ty within the realm.
Also, the three acts passed in the last session of parliament, for stojijiing
the port and l)locking uj) the harbor of Boston, for altering the charter and
government of Massachusetts Bay, and that which is entitled, "an act for
the better administration of justice, &c."
Also, the act passed in the same session for establishing the Roman Cath-
olic religion in tiie province of Quebec, abolishing the equitable system of
English laws, and erecting a tyranny there, to the great daJiger, fioni so to-
tal a dissimilarity of religion, law, and government, of the neighboring Brit-
ish colonies, by the assistance of wliose blood and treasuie the said country
was conquered from France.
Also, the act passed in the same session for the better providing suitable
quarters for officers and soldiers in his majesty's service in North America.
Also, that the keeping a standing army in several of these colonies, in
time of peace, without the consent of the legislature of that colony in which
such army is kept, is against law.
To these grievous acts and measures Americans cannot submit : but in
hopes their fellow sid)jects in Great Britain will, on a revision of them, re-
store us to that state, in which both countries found happiness and prosperi-
ty, we have, ibr the present, only resolved to piu-sue the following peaceable
measures : 1. To enter into a non-importation, non-consumption, and non-
exportation agreement or association. 2. To prepare an address to the peo-
ple of Great Britain, and a memorial to the inhabitants of British America:
And 3. To jirepaie a loyal address to his majesty, agreeable to resolutions
already entered into.
Oct. 20, 1774,
The association being copied, was read and signed at the table, and is as
follows :
J^on-Importiition Covenant.
VVe, his majesty's most loyal subjects, the delegates of the several colo-
nies of New Hampsliire, Massachusetts Bay, Rhode Island, Connecticut,
New York, New Jersey, Pennsylvania, the three lower counties of New
Castle, Kent and Sussex, on Delaware, Maryland, Virginia, North Carolina,
and South Ctu-olLua, deputed to represent them in a Continental Congress,
736 JOURNAL OF THE CONTINENTAL CONGRESS.
held in the city of Philadelphia, on the 5th day of September, 1774, avow-
ing our allegiance to his majesty, our affection and regard for our fellow-
subjects ill Great Britain and elsewhere, afiected with the deepest anxiety,
and most alarming apprehensions, at those grievances and distresses, with
which his majesty's American subjects are oppressed ; and having taken
under our most serious deliberation, the state of the whole continent, find,
that the present unha])py situation of our affairs is occasioned by a ruinous
system of colony administration, adopted by the British ministry about the
year 1763, evidently calculated for enslaving these colonies, and, with them,
the British empire. In pi-osecution of which system, various acts of parlia-
ment have been passed, for raising a revenue in America, for depriving the
American subjects, in many instances, of the constitutional trial by jury, ex-
posing their lives to danger, by directing a new and illegal trial beyond the
seas, for crimes alleged to have been committed in America : and in prose-
cution of the same system, several late, cruel and oppressive acts have been
passed, respecting the town of Boston and the Massachusetts Bay, and also
an act for extending the province of Quebec, so as to border on the western
frontiers of these colonies, establishing an arbitrary government therein,
and discouraging the settlement of British subjects in that wide extended
country ; thus, by the influence of evil principles and ancient prejudices, to
dispose the inhabitants to act with hostility against the free Protestant col-
onies, whenever a wicked ministry shall choose to direct them.
To obtain redress of these grievances, which threaten destruction to the
lives, liberty, and property of his majesty's subjects, in North America, we
are of opinion, that a non-importation, non -consumption, and non-exporta-
tion agreement, faithfully adhered to, will prove the most speedy, effectual,
and peaceable measure: and, therefore, we do, for ourselves, and the inhab-
itants of the several colonies, whom we represent, firmly agree and associ-
ate, under the sacred ties of virtue, honor, and love of our country, as fol-
lows :
1. That from and after the first day of December next, we will not im-
port, into British America, from Great Britain or Ireland, any goods, wares
or merchandise whatsoever, or from any other place, any such goods, wares
or merchandise, as shall have been exported from Great Britain or Ireland ;
nor will we, after that day, iniport any East India tea from any part of the
world ; nor any molasses, syru])s, paneles, coflee, or pimento, from the Brit-
ish jdantations or from Dominica ; nor wines from Madeira, or the Western
Islands ; nor foreign indigo.
2. We will neither import nor purchase, any slave imported after the first
day of December next; after which time, we will wholly discontinue the
slave trade, and will neither be concerned in it ourselves, nor will we hire
our vessels, nor sell our commodities or manufactures to those who are con-
cerned in it.
3. As a non-consumption agreement, strictly adhered to, will be an effec-
tual security for the observation of the non-importation, we, as above, sol-
emnly agree and associate, that from this day, we will not purchase or use
JOURNAI, (H' Tin: CONTINENTAL CONGRESS. 7:^7
aiiv tea, iiiipoiti'd (in arrount ol' tiu- East India roMi])aiiy, or any on wliidi u
(Inty liath Ikmii or shall lie paid; and li-oni and al'ttjr liie lir.sl day cjf March
uext, we will not i)urclia8e or use any East India tea wliatcvcr ; nor will \vc,
nor shall any person for or under us, purchase or use any ol" tliose goods,
wares, or merchandise, we have agreed not to import, which wc shall know,
or have cause to suspuct, were imported after the first day ol' Dcceinher,
except such as come luider the rules and directions <»f the tenth article
hereafter mentioned.
4. The earnest desire wc have not to injure our lellow suhjects in Gruut
Britain, Ireland, or the West Indies, induces us to suspend a non-exporta-
tion, until the tentii day of September, 1775; at which time, if the said acts
and parts oi' acts of the Uritish parliament, hereinafter mentioned, are not
repealed, we will not directly or indirectly, export any merchandise or com-
modity whatsoever to Great Britain, Ireland, or the NN'est Indies, excejjt rice
to Euro{)e.
5. Such as are merchants, and use the British and Irish trade, will give
orders, as soon as jjossiblc^ to their factors, agents, and correspondents, in
Great Britain and L-eland, not to ship any goods to them, on any pretence
whatsoever, as they cannot be received in America ; and if any merchant,
residing in Great Britain or Ireland, shall, directly or indirectly, ship any
goods, wares or merchandise, lor America, in order to break the said non-
imi)ortation agreement, or in any manner contravene the same, on such un-
worthy conduct being well attested, it ought to be made public ; and, on the
same being so done, we will not, from thenceforth, have any commercial
connexion with such merchant.
G. That such as are owners of vessels will give positive orders to their
captains or masters, not to receive on board their vessels any goods prohib-
ited by the said non-importation agreement, on pain of immediate dismis-
sion from their service.
7. We will use our utmost endeavors to improve the breed of sheep, and
increase their number to the greatest extent ; and to that end, we will kill
them as seldom as may be, esjiecially those of the most profitable kind; nor
will we export any to the West Indies or elsewhere ; and those of us, who
arc or may become overstocked \\ iili, or can conveniently spare any sheep,
w ill dispose of them to our neighbors, especially to the poorer sort, on mod-
erate terms.
8. We* will, in our several stations, encourage frugality, ccononi}-, and in-
dustry, and i)romote agriculture, arts, and the manufactures of this countiy,
especially that of wool ; and will discountenance and ihscouragc every spe-
cies of extravagance and dissipation, esjiecially all horse-racing, and all
kinds of gaming, cock-tigliting, exhibitions of shows, plays, and other ex-
pensive diversions and entertainments ; and on the death ol" any relation or
friend, none of us, or any of our families, will go into any further mourning
dress, than a black crape or ribbon on the aim or hat, for gentlemen, and a
black ribbon or necklace for ladies, and we will ilisconlinue the gi\ing ol
gloves and scarves at funerals.
U3
7:J8 JOURNAL OF THE CONTINENTAL CONGRESS.
9. Such as are venders of goods or mercbandise will not take advantage
of the scarcity of goods, that may be occasioned by this association, but
will sell the same at the rates we have been respectively accustomed to do
for twelve months last past. And if any vender of goods or merchandise
shall sell any such goods on higher terms, or shall, in any manner, or by
any device whatsoever, violate or depart from this agreement, no person
ought, nor will any of us deal with any such person, or his or her factor or
agent, at any time thereafter, for any commodity whatever.
10. In case any merchant, trader, or other person, shall import any goods
or merchandise, after the first day of December, and before the first day of
February next, the same ought, forthwith, at the election of the owner, to be
either re-shipped, or delivei'ed up to the committee of the county or town
wherein they shall be imported, to be stored at the risk of the importer, un-
til the non-importation agreement shall cease, or be sold under the direc-
tion of the committee aforesaid ; and in the last mentioned case, the owner
or owners of such goods shall be reimbursed out of the sales, the first cost
and charges ; the profit, if any, to be applied towards relieving and employ-
ing such poor inhabitants of the town of Boston, as are immediate sufferers
by the Boston port-bill ; and a particular account of all goods so returned,
stored, or sold, to be inserted in the public papers ; and if any goods or
merchandise shall bo iinported after the said first day of February, the
same ought forthwith to be sent back again, without breaking any of the
packages thereof.
11. That a committee be chosen in every county, city, and town, by those
who are (Qualified to vote lor representatives in the legislature, whose busi-
ness it shall be, attentively to observe the conduct of all persons touching
this association ; and when it shall be made to appear, to the satisfaction of
a majority of any such committee, that any person within the limits of their
apjjointment, has violated this association, that such majority do, forthwith,
cause the truth of the case to be published in the gazette ; to the end, that
a!l such foes to the rights of British America may be publicly known, and
universally contemned as the enemies of American liberty ; and thence-
forth, we, respectively, will break off all dealings with him or her.
12. That the committees of correspondence, in the respective colonies, do
frequently inspect the entries of their custom-houses, and inform each oth-
er, from time to time, of the true state thereof, and of every other material
circumstance that may occur relative to this association.
13. That all manufactures of this country be sold at reasonable prices, so
that no undue advantage be taken of a future scarcity of goods.
14. Aud we do further agree and resolve, that we will have no trade,
cojuMiorco, dealings, or intercourse whatsoever, with any colony or province,
in iNorlh America, vviiich shall not accede to, or which shall hereafter vio-
late this association, but will Jiold them as unwoitiiy of the rights of free-
men, and as inimical to the liberties of their country.
Aud we do solennily bind ourselves and our constituents, under the ties
aforesaid, to ailliere to this association, until such parts of the several acts
JOURNAL 0|.^ 'FMIi: ("ONTINHNTAI. CO.Nd'RKSS ::V.)
of ])arliaini'iit passed since the rhjse of tlio last war, as imi)osc or coiilimiu
dutirs on tea, w'mc, molusscs, syrups, paiicli's, coMiT, sii','ar, pimento, indi-
go, foreign paper, glass, and painters' colors, imported into America, aiid
extend the powers of the admiralty courts beyond their ancient limits, de-
l)rive the American subject of trial by jury, authorize tlie judf,'e'8 certificate
to indemnify the prosecutor from damaires that he might otherwise be liable
to, from a trial by his peers, recpiire opj)ressive security from a claimant of
ships or goods seized, before he shall be allowed to defend his property, are
repealed — and until that part of the act of the 12th G. 3. ch. 24, entitled
"an act lor the better securing his majesty's dock-yards, magazines, ships,
ammunition and stores," by w liich any persons chargcil with committing any
of the otiences therein described, in America, may be tried in any shire or
county witliiu the realm, is repealed — and until the four acts, passed the last
session of i)arliamcnt, viz. : that for stopping the port and blocking up the
harbor of Boston — tiiat for altering the charter and government of the Mas-
sachusetts Bay — and that which is entitled " an act for the better adminis-
tration of justice, &c." — and that " for extending the limits of Quebec, &c."
are repealed. And we recommend it to the provincial conventions, and to
the committees in their respective colonies, to establish such further regula-
tions as they may think proper, for carrying into execution this association.
The foregoing association being determined upon by the Congress, was
ordered to be subscribed by the several members thereof; and thereupon,
we have hereunto set our respective names accordingly.
In Congress, Philadelphia, October 24,
Signed, PEYTON RANDOLPH, President.
JVeto Hampshire John Sullivan,
Nathaniel Folsom.
Massachuselis Bay . . . .Thomas Cushing,
Samuel Adams,
John Adams,
Robert Treat Paine.
Rhode Islfiivl Stephen Hopkins,
Samuel Warp.
Connecticut Emimialet Dver,
Roger Sherman,
Silas Deane.
Acu> York Isaac Low,
John Alsop,
John Jay,
James Duane,
William Floyd,
740 JOURNAL OF THE CONTINENTAL CONGRESS.
JVew York Henry Wisner,
S. BOERUM,
Philip Livingston.
JVeiv Jersey James Kinsey,
William Livingston,
Stephen Crane,
Richard Smith,
John De Hart.
Pennsylvania Joseph Galloway,
John Dickinson,
' Charles Humphreys,
Thomas Mifflin,
Edward Biddle,
John Morton,
George Ross.
JVew Castle, Sfc Caesar Rodney,
Thomas M'Kean,
George Read.
Maryland Matthew Tilghman,
Thomas Johnson,
William Paca,
Samuel Chase.
Virginia Richard Henry Lee,
George Washington,
P. Henry, Jr.,
Richard Bland,
Benjamin Harrison,
Edmund Pendleton.
North Carolina William Hooper,
Joseph Hewes,
R. Caswell.
South Carolina Henry Middleton,
Thomas Lynch,
Christopher Gadsden,
John Rutledge,
Edward Rutledge.
May 11, 1775.
Mr. Ilancoclc laid before the Congress a letter from the Provincial Con-
gress of Massachusetts Bay, together with certain resolutions formed by
said Congress, and a copy of a letter, sent by said Congress to their agent
in England, and an adch-css to the iuliabitants of Great Britain, on the late
.TOrilNAT. OK THE COXTINENTAL CONGREF^S. Ml
engagement betwctMi tlio troops iiikIit (icii. d'.-i^n, uml tlic inli.iliii.ints of
Massacluisotts Bay; and also a number ol" (Iiiposilioiis, duly atlcstrd, rela-
tive to llic comnienccnicnt of said liostilitic^s, all wliicli were read.
DnUnil, Tliat tiit; si-crt'tary iia\i' tlu^ drpositions and lliu address to tin:
iniiabitants of Groat Britain jjublishod.
Rtsolved, .V. C. D. Tliut the Congress will, on Monday next, resolve itself
into a committee of the whole, to take into consideration the state of Amer-
ica.
Ordered, Tiiat tlie letter from tlu? Provincial Congress of Alassacliiisetts
Bay, be referred to that committee.
June 2, 1773.
The president laid before the Congress a letter from the Provincial Con-
vention of iMassachusetts Bay, dated JMay 1(J, which was read; setting forth
the ditHcnlties they labor imder for want of a regular form of goveriuncnt,
and as they and the other colonics are now compelled to raise an army to
defend themselves from the butcheries and devastations of their implacable
enemies, which renders it still more uecessaiy to have a regular established
government, requesting the Congress to favor them with " explicit advice
resi)ecting the taking uj) and exorcising the powers of civil govenunent,"
aiid declaring their readiness to " submit to such a general plan as the Con-
gress may direct for the colonies, or make it their great study to establish
such a form of government tliere, as shall not only promote their advan-
tage, but the iniion and interest of all America."
Ordered, To lie on the table lor farther consideration.
Doct. Benjamin Church being directed by the convention of Massachu-
setts Bay, to confer with the Congress respecting such matters, as may be
necessary to the defence of that colony, and particidarly the state of the
army therein.
Ordered, That he be introduced.
After he witluhew, an express arriving with despatches from JMassachu-
setts Bay, the president laid before the Congress letters from the conven-
tions ol" that colony, and New Hampshire, also from Gov. Trumbull, which
were read.
June 3, 1775.
The letter from the convention of Massachusetts, dated the 16th May, be-
ing again read,
Resolved, That a committee of five persons be chosen to consider the
same, and report what in their opinion is the proper advice to be given to
that convention.
The following persons were chosen by ballot, to compose that committee,
viz. : Mr. J. Ilutledgc, Mr. Johnson, Mr. Jay, Mr. Wilson and Mr. Lee.
June 7, 1775.
The committee appointed to prepare advice in answer to the letter from
the convention of Massachusetts Bay, brought in their report, which was
read, and ordered to lie on the table for consideration.
742 JOURNAL OF THE CONTINENTAL CONGRESS.
June 9, 1775.
The repoi-t of the comraittee, on the letter from the convention of Massa-
chusetts Bay, being again read, the Congress came to the following resolu-
tion :
Resolved, That no obedience being due to the act of parliament for alter-
ing the charter of the colony of Massachusetts Bay, nor to a governor, or a
lieutenant governor, who will not observe the directions of, but endeavor to
subvert that charter, the governor and lieutenant governor of that colony
are to be considered as absent, and their offices vacant ; and as there is no
council thei-e, and the inconveniences, arising from the suspension of the
powers of government, are intolerable, especially at a time when Gen. Gage
hath actually levied war, and is carrying on hostilities, against his majesty's
peaceable and loyal subjects of that colony ; that, in order to conform, as
near as may be, to the spirit and substance of the charter, it be recommend-
ed to the provincial convention, to write letters to the inhabitants of the
several places, which are entitled to representation in assembly, requesting
them to choose such representatives, and that the assembly, when chosen,
do elect councillors ; and that such assembly, or council, exercise the pow-
ers of government, until a governor, of his majesty's appointment, wUl con-
sent to govern the colony according to its charter.
Ordered, That the president transmit a copy of the above to the conven-
tion of Massachusetts Bay.
June 14, 1775.
A letter from the convention of New York, dated 10th instant, respecting
a vessel which is stopped there, on suspicion of having on board provisions
for the army and navy at Boston, was read and referred to the delegates of
Massachusetts Bay, Connecticut and New York.
June 27, 1775.
A letter from the convention of Massachusetts Bay, received by express,
was laid before the Congress, and read.
MISCELLANEOUS PAPERS.
Gov. Gage^s Prodamatioru
Provikce of the ]Massaciiusetts Bav.
B]i the Governor.
A PROCLAMATION.
Whereas, a number of persons unlawfully assembled at Cambridge, in
the montli of October last, calling themselves a Provincial Congress, did, in
the most open and daring terms, assume to tiiemselves tlie powers and au-
thority of goveruineut, indeijeiident of, and repugnant to his majesty's gov-
ernment legally and constitutionally established within this jirovince, and
tending utterly to subvert the same ; and did, amongst other unlawful i)ro-
ceedings, take upon themselves to resolve and direct a new and unconstitu-
tional regulation of the militia, in liigh derogation of his majesty's royal
I)rerogative ; and also to elect and appoint Henry Gardner, Esq., of Stow,
to be receiver general, in the room of Harrison Gray, Esq., tlien, and still,
legally holding and executing that office ; and also to order and direct the
moneys granted to his majesty, to be paid into the hands of the said Henry
Gardner, and not to the said Harrison Gray, Esq. ; and fiu'ther eai"nestly to
recommend to the inhabitants of the provuice to oblige and compel the sev-
eral constables and collectors to comply with and execute the said direc-
tions, contrary to their oaths, and against the plain and express rules and
directions of the law ; all which proceedings have a most dangerous tend-
ency to ensnare his majesty's subjects, the inhabitants of this province, and
di'aw them into perjuries, riots, sedition, treason and rebellion:
For the prevention of which evils, and tlie calamitous consequences
thereof,! have thought it my duty to issue this proclamation, hereby earnestly
exhorting, and in his majesty's name strictly prohibiting all his liege sub-
jects wiiliin this province, tiom com|)lying, in any degree, with the said re-
quisitions, recommendations, directions, or resolves of the aforesaid unlaw-
ful assembly, as they regard his majesty's highest displeasin-e, and would
avoid the pains and penalties of the law. And I do heieby charge and
command all justices of the ])cace, sheriti's, cont?tabIcs, collectors, and other
otlicers, in their several departments, to be vigilant and faithlul in the execu-
tion and discharge of their duty in their respective offices, agreeable to the
744 MISCELLANEOUS PAPERS.
well-known established laws of the land ; and to the utmost of their power,
by all lawful ways and means, to discountenance, discourage and prevent a
compliance with such dangerous resolves of the abovementioned, or any
other unlawful assembly whatever.
Given at Boston, this 10th day of November, in the fifteenth year of the
reign of his majesty George the third, by the grace of God, of Great Brit-
ain, France and L-eland, king, defender of the faith, &c,, Anno Domini,
1774.
THOMAS GAGE.
By his Excellency's command,
Thomas Fl,ucker, Secretary.
God save the Kins'.
The Committee of JVew York to the Provincial Congress.
New York, April 19, 1775.
Gentlkmen : — The following very interesting accounts were this day re-
ceived by the snow General Johnson, Capt. Dean, in thiity-one days from
England. The ^^Titer is a person of undoubted veracity, and has the best
means of intelligence, who may be depended on, having for these twelve
mouths ]iast always furnished the most certain advices of the ministi-j's de-
signs, &c. In consideration of which, and the present posture of affairs in
America in general, but more particularly on accoimt of the situation of
your province, and the consequences to which it is more immediately liable,
it is thought an indispensable duty to give you this late advice. It is un-
fcignediy wished that you may imjnove it to your own safety, as well as to
the advantage of the whole continent.
We have the honor to be, with great respect.
Your obedient servants,
HENRY REMSEN, Deputy Chairman.
To the Hon. Provincial Congress.
Extract of Letters, Sfc.
London, February 24, 1775.
Providence seems to have i)laced me here, in order to give you the uaili-
est iiilclligence of the most interesting aflairs, relative to the colonics.
To my great astonisliment, I have now before me an act for blocking up
the other colonies ; and another called the black act, to prevent the fishe-
ries. The whole nation seems to be deeply afi'ected at such an enormous
crime, wiiich is supposed to be done at the request of the king and his
MlSCELLANi:(JUS IVMMIKS. 71.*
crfatiii°L>8. G'ud I'urliid, that yoit i^liuiihi In; iiitiinidutL*! nt tliLs iiii(|uitouH law,
which id calciilalcd to niiii what was a iiiuliiid hiiiclit to voii and uh. TIiIh
must coiiviuco you wliat \oii uio to i\|iiMt, it' }oii Mdimit to tliu ii.oat
shocking sol oC iiioii that England can |»ro<hicf. Vou now sec their hu-
manity. KoMbo n]> then witii a jiist indignation, and exercise your mili-
tia. W'atcli yoiu* governor and conmil. Tin; new asseml)ly is to be com-
posed ol' such creatures as will give iij) the people's rights, and join in thn
most horrid plot against iheni. What a melancholy retleclion, that the
riches and trade of a great nation should he ahiised and turned to the de-
struction of themselves and the colonies !
Li short, the king is determined to l)e as absolute as the French king, and
Avith the most obstinate head and had heart, has set himself again.st the peo-
ple, whom he will not see, keeping himself retired from his subjects, in
priile and ignorance, lie has discarded men of veracity froni all places of
prolit and honor, and filled their olliccs with a set of the most abaiuhiiied
villains on earth. These are they who advised him to break his oath witli
the people, for which they arc despised by the nation. It' you hold out
a lew months, England will rise and do you justice, as well as relieve
themselves from those accursed tyrants, who w aut to corrupt you, and deprive
you of both liberty and property.
There are two hundred and eighty-five members of parliament, who are
all i)aid \vith the peo[)Ie's nioney 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 tlie night, at Mrs. Keens, near the palace, where
they have a bo.\, which contains the papers that pass betvveeu his majesty
and them. The king overlooks their schemes and corrects them, as well aa
gives orders how to proceed for the future. Hutchinson is consulted, and
to their shame. Governor Golden, I'enn, and Martin, who liave w ritten 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 parliament, as
if he intended to promote peace with the colonies; hut it is to deceive
them, antl the people of England too. It is intended to deteat the salutary
advice of the Congress, which does credit to British America!
Set the press immediately to work, and publish to the world tlie wicked
desigtis of the king and his councillors; that you tlespise their slavish
schemes, and are determined to preserve your laws and religion.
Encoiu'age the brave jieople of Massachusetts liay to act worthy of their
noble ance-stors !
I have the phjasure to assure you, that the noble lords w ith whom I have
conversed, all join you in contempt of the junto hen;. Vou are desired to
let the colonies know that there is a deej) |)lot Ibrnied to divide them, mid
d(^ceive the people hito a compliance, liut tell them that joii \vaiit not
their traile nor protection at the expense of your liberty.
Vou will see, by the papers, the treatment Lord Chatham's plan met with.
Those lords, who advised the king to deckuc you rebels, and appointed
94
746 MISCELLANEOUS PAPERS.
Messrs. Hancock, Adams, &c., &c., have gone so far as to say that Chatham
shall fall a sacrifice to their designs, &c.
I know there is puhlic virtue among yon. I know your fondness for En-
gland 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 towards you, but what you oblige him, by your own wisdom
and virtue, to have. Take care of yourselves, 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, Doct. Fothergill and Mr. Barclay were so pressed in spirit,
that they went to Lord North, and told him that the bill lor prohibiting the
fishery, was so horrid and inhuman an act, that the nation would rise and
oppose it : and that if it did pass into a law, it would be a scandal to hu-
manity, 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 inflammatory pam-
phlet to be burnt at Guildhall, which drew ofl:* the people, whilst the bill
passed in parliament,
A report is sent into the city that the transports are stoi)ped. 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, be-
fore England is apprised 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 liis
coach doors, or some such trifle, and no resistance of importance from the
city, only a clamor, which he has often experienced. 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.
North Carolina is to be a store house, it is said. Supj)ort the committee,
and watch the ofiicers of the customs, &c. Your friends are aiiaid that
you will be surprised into compliance. The offers of peace were only to
raise the stocks, which had fallen. They are now four per cent, higher on
account of the report.
The council sat uj) all night, in order to find out ways and means to con-
quer Virginia, and procure tobacco. Great offers will be made to those
who will r.-iise it, &c.
Men of large fortunes are afraid to oppose government, least the hank
should fail, which is said to be in danger.
MISCELLANEOUS PAPERS. 717
Tin; interest of tlie yejir 1774, is not paid.
Many ol" the people are jour most lieurty friends, Ijiit the kinf,' is your
greatest enemy, lie not deceived jjy liis low cunning; aet wisely, and the
wicked jilot will hreak on the hi^ads ol" tln)s<r who want to destroy jou.
The king is his own secretary ; he gets nji at si.x o'clock every morning,
to send oft" his box, with remarks, on a bit ol" pap< r tii d round eacli order:
four of the ablest lawyers are constantly w ith him, who.se bu.sincss it "ls to
ndvisc and search for precedents, to screen his head, and throw llic blame
on the jiarlianitnt.
Two millions have been squandered in bribery and corruption. The
crown has nothing to li-ar but iJie liungcr of the poor.
A steady adherence to the proceedings of the Congress will save England
and America.
Jleware of Gov. Penn, who has had offers made him to comply with the
designs of the court.
Send this to Eostou immediately. Mr. Hancock's lands are already divi-
ded among the officers.
Lord Dartmouth is your bitter enemy, and determined to destroy the lib-
erties of America.
All the wise wish that you may attend to the advice of tlie Congress.
March 1, 1775.
Part of the troops now ordered for embarkation here and Ireland, are to
rendezvous at New York, to make it a i)lace of arms, securing the defection
of tliat province, liom the general alliance in the cause of freedom and ev-
ery thing that is dear to man ; and to prevent the communication between
Virginia, .Maryland, and the otljer southern colonies, with New England ;
wlien Gen. Gage, with such assistance as he may get from New York, is to
subdue those colonies by a garrison and place of arms, with the assistance
of Quebec, to rule with a rod of iron all the slaves of America.
Without tlie concurrence of New York, this scheme can never be carried
into execution, of wJiich every gentleman and man of knowledge in this
kingdom is fully convinced ; therelorc, on your virtue, in a great measure, it
dei)end.s, whether America shall be free, or be reduced to the most abject
and oppressive servitude, worse than tliat of Egyptian bondage, in which
you must inevitably be involved, if you lend yoiu' aid to enslave your breth-
ren in the other colonies.
I have to inlorm you that the bill for preventing the four colonies and
provinces of New England from tisliing, getting any provisions from the
other colonics or carrying on any commerce whatever to any part of the
world, exce|)t to Great JJritain, Ireland, or the British West Indies, will
fniaily pa.^s 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 l)ill will bo
brouglit in to prohibit any of the other colonies Jiom carrying on any trade
whatever with each other, or to any other part of the world, except to Great
748 MISCELLANEOUS PAPERS.
JJritain, Ireland, or the Biitish West Indies, wliicli will probably take ])lace
in Jul}' also : therefore, you -will act acconlinjily, and let this be publicly
known.
London, March 1st, 1775.
The measures of the ministry will, I hope, do more towaids uniting the
colonies, than any efforts of America itself. You will easily jierceive their
wicked intentions to divide, as well as tlieir designs after that hoped for di-
vision. They have high hopes of success, from the last accounts from New
York. I tru.st the people of that jjrovince will soon displace those rascally
and treacherous tories in your a,ssembly, who dare thus negatively encour-
age the system of despotism now adopted for your government. The Avis-
dom of the Congress, and the firmness of the people, give the strongest as-
surances of future conduct. Several names are made use of here as author-
ities to warrant the defection of America. Pray ])rint this short hint for the
observation of the honest men among yon. I need not endeavor to expose
the baseness or folly of the jiresent men in office, for they take care to do it
themselves.
The foregoing were at first, intended only to be communicated to the in-
habitants of Massachusetts Bay, but on more consideration, it was judged
best to inform those of Connecticut also, leaving them to Ibrward the ac-
count to Concord with the utmost despatch.
Joseph Hawley to Thomas Ciishing.
Northampton, Feb. 22, 1775.
Dear Sir: — Since I left Cambridge, I have had many thoughts on the
state of this province, and the continent ; and suflcr me to say. Sir, that tlio
time is in fiict arrived, when we are to droj) all chimerical ])lans, and in our
contemplations thoroughly to think down and ])ervade every step that is ])ro-
poscd for practice ; to judge of its practicability, and, as far as possible, to
view all its consetpiences. V/illi this conviction, i have been most seriously
contetnplating the commission and most important trust of our committee of
safety, and esi)ecially that branch of it which relates to tlieir mustering the
minute men and others of the i»iilitia, when they shall judge that the late
acts of parliament, viz.: the regidation act, and the murder act, are attemjn-
ed to l)e carried into execution by force. A most critical, most imj)ortant,
most arduous trust this. Here let me observe, that the soldiei-s, when thus
mustered by the said comuiittee, who have this jjower devolved on them by
the representative body of the province, will suppose it is their duty to fight ;
they therefore, will only deliberate how to fight to advantage. They will not
consider the question, whether or not the time is that they ought to fight ;
MISCKLLANKOIJS I>A1M:KS. 749
tlicy will su|i|i(i,-i' tli.it till' coiiiiiKiit liiivc (Icvdlvcd the resolution of tlmt
<|iicsti()ii iijinii this |/i«i\ iiict^ iiiul that this |ii()\iiii-i' Ii:im: (hnnlvid it «iii the
roiiiinillrr ol'siiUty, and that the coiiiiiiittci;, liy caliiii;.' ihuiii, have dcridrd it.
Tliey will jiid;:e, that ilthey shoidd dceliiu' li<;hliii;; when they aif,' called
lor that iiitciil, their honor and courajL'e \\ill he iMi|iea<-hed. The Holdier
tlierelbre, \\ill proiialily, at all events, lidl on. 'i'liiis, hostilities will he com-
menced ; \\ hich we must snpiiose, will, thencelorward, continue, and he
most vifToronsly pushed, until the liite ol" America he decided: Jiosiiliiies in
which wc must ha\i; the vifToroiis and peiscverinfj assistance of tin; othercol-
onies, or wo mnst siidv inuler them. Sutler me then to nsk, whether it will
not be the height uf ]iresum[)tion to enter on such a scene with no other
assnrance or secmily ol'siicli ellectiial and continue*! aids as will he ahso-
Iiilely necessary, than wliat is contained in a resolution of about six lines,
and they consisting of terms and expressions not the most definite, or of
certain and jirecise meaning? TJie words used in the resolution to state the
case wherein hostiiilics are to be commenced, arc, in my opinion, by far too
loose, to wit : " when the acts shall be attemjited to be carried into execu-
tion by force," as well as the words made use to secure the aid of the colo-
nics, to wit: "all America ought to support them in such opposition," not
tljat they will actually sni)poit them, but a tnere declaration that it would be
reasonable and just tlir.t such sujijiort should be afforded. Is this a tieaty
oifensive and defensive of sulfi(-icnt precision to make ns secure of the ef-
fectual aid of the other colonies in a war with Great Britain ? Besides, by
whom was this deciaralion or cngagcmeiit, siich as it is, made ? Was it by
delegates specially authorized and instructed to make an engagement of this
sort? Who knows whether the rcsj)ective constituent bodies will avow this
declaration? Moreover, it ought to be well considered, Avitli regard to all the
other colonies, excejjting C.'onnccticut and lihode Island, what situation they
are in to fulfil an engagement of tliis sort, in case they were generally dis-
posed to come into it. Do'nt we all say, that this province cannot levy, sub-
sist, and pay an army sullicicnt lo j.flbrd ns luiy hojies of j)reseiit resistance,
without a legislature wjiich the jicople will cheerfully sid>mit to? Is not
that precisely the case with all the other colonies, the two above mentioned
excepted? Have they not as miuh to <lo to assume a new government,
every one of them, in or<lcr to levy, subsist, and i)ay their resjtective quotas
of an army, as we have ? Nay, woidd not the success of an attempt of this
sort be more precarious in every one of them than in this province, as their
people cannot be supposed so thoroughly to a])prehend the necessity of it
as ours may be supposed to do ? Are they oppressed and uftecte«l with the
new measures as we arc ? ^\ ill not their governors obstruct and labor to
embarrass every attempt of the kind as much as ours? \Vill tiiev not have
as many friends to government to assist them, as there arc here ? Can it,
therefore, be nuich short of madness and iidatuation in us, to enter on a
scene of this sort in the present state of affairs ? Nay, is it not ob\ ions,
therefore, that actual hostilities must be suspended, if jiossible, until the con-
750 MISCELLANEOUS PAPERS.
tinent, by tlieir representatives, eliall, in the most explicit manner, in fact
say, tliat tlie moment is actually ai rived vvlieii the scene shall open ? No
one, 1 presume, will say, that it will be sound policy for us to enter on hos-
tilities with only some prospects of such donations from the other colonies
to support the war as liave been made and are making for the support of the
poor of Boston. Does it not infinitely import us, to adn)it these and many
more considerations into our minds before we enter upon lasting, most im-
portant hostilities ? When once the blow is struck it must be followed, and we
must conquer, or all is lost forever. If we are not supported, perseveringly
supported, by divers other colonies, can we expect any thing else, than, in a
short time, to fall a prey to our enemies ? May God, make us consider it.
Should large numbers of men come voluntary into the province service, unless
they should have been regularly raised and proper i)rovision made for their
subsistence, and magazines of ammunition provided by the colony from
whence they come, will they do any more than just look on us, turn about,
and hasten home as fast as they came ? In order, therelbre, for the necessary
establishment of auxiliary troops, as I said before, must not the other colonies
assume new forms of government as well as we ? Is it to be sui)posed that
all this can be done suddenly ? We know, that according to the ])resent
respective constitutions, nothing of the sort above mentioned, to wit : the
levying, subsisting, and paying of troojjs, can be done in a governmental
way. When we shall have once made the hostile attack, we are, tiiencefor-
ward, to look for nothing but fire and sword, until we have conquered or
are ourselves vanquished. Therefore, if we, l)y order of our committee of
safety, should begin tlie attack, and so bring on hostilities before the general
express consent of the colonies that hostilities are altogether unavoidable,
and that tlie time to commence them is absolutely arrived, and that we are
actually ready, 1 conceive that there will be infinite hazard that the other
governments will say, that we have imnecessarily and madly plunged into
war, and therefore, must get out of the scrape as we can, and we shall have
no other aid from them, only some warm people wlio will resort to us in a
fit of zeal, and soon return home again as fast as they came, without afibrd-
ing us any real service, but will leave us in a worse state than we should
have been if they had never come. I know your concern will be, that if we
proceed in this deliberate way, the spiiit of our people will evajwrate and
be lost. But let me assure you, that there is no danger of that. If I can
make any judgme!it,ali the danger is, on the other hand, that our jteojile will
rashly and headily rush into hostilities before they can be uplield and sup-
ported: they will consequently fail of success: the tide will then turn: a
very low ebb will succeed the high tide of flood: they will then give all up:
and the good cause will be lost forever.
I beg of you, therelbre, as you love your country, to use your utmost in-
fluence with our cojnmittee of safety, that our people be not mustered, and
that hostilities be not commenced, until we have the express, categorical de-
cision of the continent, that the time is absolutely come that hostilities ought
MISCELLANEOUS PAPERS. :.>l
to hpgin, .iiiil iliiit ill! V \\\\\ Hiiiiiioit IIS ill coiitiiiiiin;,' ilicm. As to tin-
courts, wr must iiiilmiriiss mid ntiird tlirm, l)y |)irv*iiliiij^' suiiois, jurors,
witiiosscs, iVc, t:<»iiiK '"'" tlifiii, Ity nil ways and iiinnis, lliat I iiavi; not time
now to fxpiaiii. A sliar|i fy«; must lie Uc|it on tliL-m, tiiat \vc may liilly
know llie siicft'ss of the att('in|>ts to cstallisli tin- n'liiilalion so fur us it ru-
epffts tiie courts. tSir, 1 tiiink it of miiili iiiijKirlaiicr t<i <ln tlii.s : a« you re-
gard your own lilc and \<nir usefulness to your eoiiniry, )<)U rilioiild mo.-t at-
tentively wateli uli the steps and jMoceedin^'sotthe court now sitliii;; at Bos-
ton. If they get a grand jury, then they will proluihly ohtain indictments of
liigli treason, and indictments will not lie procured without a vii-w and re-
spect to arrests and commitments, conviction.-i, hangings, drawings, and
quarterings. What your chance will he I need not tell you.
1 am, Sir, w ith most sincere regard,
Your most ol)cdicnt humble servant,
JOSEPH llAWLEY.
Hon. Thomas Ciishing.
Inhahilai\ls of Montreal to the Comtnillee of Safety.
Montreal, April 28, 1775.
Ge.ntlemen: — We have received your letter of tlic 21st of Fehruarv, by
Mr Brow n, and see clearly the great injustice that has been done you. We
deeply feel the sorrows and afflictions of oiir suffering brethren ; and sin-
cerely wish it was in our power to afford you effectual relief; but alas! we
are more the oiijccts of pity and compassion than yourselves, who are now
suffering under the heavy hand of power; deprived, as we are, of the com-
mon right of the miserable, to complain. You have numbers, strength, and
a common cause to support you in your opposition : we are still more divi-
ded here, by our interests, than by our religion, language, and manners.
The api)rehension of evils to con>e upon us, in a short time, from the unlim-
ited power of the governor, strikes all o|)[)osition dead : indeed, few in this
colony dare vent their griefs ; but groan in silence, and dream of lettres de
ca<:^, confiscations, and imprisonments; 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 ai)|)ieheiisioiis tliat rob ii.> of our peace.
In a word, were the British inhabitants of this widely extended province,
united in their sentiments, we have neither munbers nor wealth sutlicieiit to
do you any essctitial ser%'ice. We must, therefore, cast ourselves into the
arms of our sister colonies, relying u|)on the wisdom, vigor, an<l firnmess of
the general Continental Congress ibr our protection, hoping they will enter-
tain no animosity or resentment against us because we cannot join them in
the ensuing general Congress, which, Avere we to attemi)t, the Canadians
would join w ith the government to frustrate.
752 MISCELLANEOUS PAPERS.
Yon will please to bear in mind, that not only those who hold the helm of
government, hnt also, all those who make wealth or ambition the chief objects
of their pursuit, are professedly yovu- enemies ; and would be glad to reduce
you to the same abject state, with themselves: nevertheless, the bulk of the
people, both English and Canadians, are of quite contrary sentiments ; 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 working the slii|) in which they sail. They may mutter and
swear, but must obey: however, should government handle them too rough-
ly, and arbitrarily attempt to force them upon dangerous and disagreeable
service, to which they have already shewn an irreconcilable aversion, they
may, perliajjs, dearly repent it.
The case is quite difierent with their noblesse, or gentry. The pre-emi-
nence given to their religion, together with a participation of honors and of-
fices in conmion 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
oi)en their way to Ibrtune. Of liberty, or law, they have not the least no-
tion.
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 conceive that their chiefs know their own interests
l)i!tter, 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 victims.
We desire to know, whether English delegates would be accepted under
the above named limitations ; namely, without entering into the general as-
sociation ibr the non-importation of goods from Great Britain, or the non-
exportation of the jjroduce of this colony, and the Indian countries above :
and beg to be informed in what manner we can be serviceable to yoiu" cause,
without bringing dowji ruin upon our own heads.
It may not be amiss just to hint, that the idea the Canadians seem to have
of this colony, at present is, that it is to be a French government, holding
under the crown of Great Britain ; tiom which they mean to exclude every
Englishman, save the governor and lieutenant governor.
We heartily wish our abilities to serve you were equal to our wills, and
pray Heaven to )))osper your generous j)urpose ; and are, with the utmost
consideration and feeling lor your distresses.
Gentlemen, your most obedient,
And very humble servants, and fellow siitlerers,
THOMAS WALKER,
JOHN welll;s,
.IA:Ml!:S PRICE,
WILLIAM HAYWOOD.
P. S. It is our earnest reciuest, that this letter may not be now pid)lished,
for fear of bad consequences to the subscribers.
Mrs(ji:LLA.Ni:()i ;s rAi'jiiis. zr.-.i
Mrs. liowdoin iu iJw Vommilkc of Stiff I if.
DORCIIESTKK, J I VK 1, 177r».
Gentlemen: — Mr. Bowdoiu lias just received iho enclosed deposition,
and l)ciiiir in a very weak state, desires me to inform you, that Cor fom«! time
past, the Falkland, sloop of war, commniKkd liy (,'apt. Lin/.ey, has been
eriiisiiig ahoiit the islaiuls called Ilii/ahetli islands, near .Marlha's \ ineyard:
that the said sloop's hoats have, ilivers times, landed armed men on the said
islands, who have ahused the inhabitants, slove their boats, and by force
taken away a eonsiderable part of their property, as may more fully ajtpear
by the said de|)ositioii.
It is Innubly ajiprehended, if about one hundred armed men were proper-
ly posted on the said islands, they would be a sullicient force to defend tho
inhabitants, and protect their stocks of cattle and sheep, which arc verj' con-
siderable, and which have, hitherto, every year, furnished divers parts of
this colony with liit sheep and cattle lor provisions, and particularly with a
large quantity of wool lor our home manufactures.
1 beg leave to make this representation, that you may take sucii measures
as your wisdom shall dictate ; and am, most respectfully, in Mr. Bowdoin's
behalf, who is part owner of one of said islands,
Gentlemen, your most obedient humble servant,
ELIZABETH BOWDOIN.
To the honorable Coinmillee of Safdy.
Deposition of Elislui JVye.
May 31, 1775.
Elisha Nye, imdiolder, living on one of the Elizabeth islands, eonuuonly
called Naushan, and near to Tarpolin Cove, testifietli and saith, that some
time about the 5th of May, the sloop of war called the Falkland, command-
ed by Capt. Linzey, came into the cove, and as soon as the vessel had como
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, he told him it was enough to sciu'e any body to see so many
men come on shore armed ; and the women were all lied, and to wiiere ho
knew not; upon which, Capt. Linz-jy told him to call them in, for he did
not mean to hurt any body — ujion which promise, I and my family were sat-
isfied. Soon after that, the captain asked me to walk with him ; which lin
complied with; and in the course of the walk, he demamled to know what
stock I had, ami added, to tell him right, tor if' I did not, he >%ould take all
that he met: upon which, I gave him the account. Then the cajitain told
me, the deponent, if I sold any of them, he uoidd take the remainder by
95
754 AIISCELLANEOUS PAPERS.
force : upon which, 1 told him, if he were here when they were fit for mar-
ket, he might have tliem, paying the price I used to Jiave. Soon after, he
went to Rhode Island, and returned back in a few days ; after which, he
used to pass and repass the island almost every day, mostly in company
with the doctor of the ship, leaving down the fence rei)eatedly, which let
the cattle often mix together, which I told the doctor was a great damage :
the doctor's answer was, " then you may put it up yourselves, for I will
not ;" and he often talked in an abusive, insulting manner, that he, the doc-
tor, would soon take what he wanted, without any pay.
On the 2Gth instant, a sloop came into the cove, with about twenty pas-
sengers, men, women, and children, in great distress for pi-ovisions, and
made application to me for supplies. Capt. Linzey knowing that, his boat
having boarded hei-, sent his boat on shore, and forbade my letting them
have any. Then I advised them to a})ply to Capt. Linzey, 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, he would sink them:" upon which, they set sail immedi-
ately without any su])plies. And further, the deponent declareth, that the
doctor came on shore, and said, that the captain's orders were, that 1 should
go with him, the said doctor, and destroy all the boats belonging to 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 1 did not go ; upon which, I found 1
must comply, and accordingly went with him, and saw him, the doctor,
stave three boats.
On the 29th, 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 being dark,
but would fetch them in as early in the morning as he pleased ; the answer
ii-om 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 about when they should want mine, and 1 thought it best the
sheep should be let out to feed ; upon which, the said doctor said to me,
"damn you! 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 ; he
said " well, damn you ! make haste !" and swung his sword over my head, —
but upon trial 1 found it so dark, I could not get them in ; and, on my return,
was informed th;it he, the doctor, had sent on board for more help to carry
me and my brother on board ihe shij) ; upon which, with the abuses and
threats 1 Jiad received before, I thought it time to make my escape, which I
did, to the main laud, and begged the assistance of the people, who readily
came to my assistance. When I returned, which was about three o'clock,
in the morning, some of my iamily told me, they had been on shore, armed,
and taken all my calves, being seven in number; two of the poorest
and smallest, they sent on shore in the morning ; the others, with four
sheep they had some days before, they caiTJed off without paying any
MISCELLANKOUS PAIMOKS. 7.-,->
tliiiij,' llir llinii. 1 do riiitlier clrclari', tlio uliU!^i.a uiid tlireuts 1 received,
linin ('ii|it. l/iii/cy iiiid ilic dtictnr, were the occusioti of my moving ofV tlic
islniul, Ii'a\ iiij,^ my intfiost. And I dcclun", that 1 never rc'liised C'n|>t. Lin-
zoy, or any other person l)floii;.'in;,f to any ship of \\i\r, rntiTtainnunt in my
lionsc, or u su|)ply of provisions tliat I luid on my farm, and conhl fpate.
And 1 Cnrther dcidarr, that on th(! nij;ht of the 21^th instunt, the albret>uid
doctor, as my will; iidbrms mc, came on sliore und demunded my gun, Avith
his sword in liand, \>hich slie (U-hvcred to him, and I have not seen it since,
thongii it was the oidy weapon of defence that 1 liad on tin- ishuuh
The vahie of tlie slieep, calves, und {^nn, ^\hicJl tiiey took from jne, and
tho use of my horse and well, arc as follow, viz. :
Four sheep, .......
Three calves, four months old, .....
Four (piarters of veal, sixty pounds, sold.
One guu taken out of my house by the doctor of the ship, of great
value, ........
Riding my horse and use of my well, ....
£15 G 0
ELISUA NYE.
Barnstable, ss. May 31, 1775.
Sworn to, before
THOMAS SMITH, Justice of the Peace.
£2 10
3 0
2 H
0
0
0
3 0
3 0
0
0
Population of Massachusetts, 177G.
Counties.
IfTiites.
Blacks.
Total.
Suftblk,
27,419
cm
28,101
Essex,
50,903
. 1,049
51,952
Middlesex,
40,119
702
40,821
Hampshire,
34,315
245
34,500
Plymouth,
2tJ,'J0G
467
27,393
IJariistable,
15,344
171
1.5,515
Bristol,
2G,G5G
583
27,241
York,
17,593
241
17,834
Dukes,
2,822
59
2,881
Nantucket,
4,412
133
4,545
Worcester, .
40,331
432
40,763
Cumberland,
13,910
1G2
14,072
Lincoln,
18,563
85
18,048
Berkshire,
18,552
216
18,708
343,845
5,249
349,094
750 MISCELLANEOUS PAPERS.
Warlike Stores in Massachusetts, 1774.
Returns of warlike stores were received from almost all the towns of the
several counties of JMassachusetts and Maine, except Dukes and Nantucket,
April 14, 1775. The aggregate was as follows :
Fire-arms, 21,549
Pounds of powder, ....... 17,444
Pounds of lead balls, ...... 22,191
Number of flints, ....... 144,699
Number of bayonets, ...... 10,108
Number of pouches, ...... 11,979
Aggregate of the Town Stocks.
Fire-arms, ........ 68
Barrels of powder, ....... 357
Pounds of lead balls, ...... C6,781
Number of flints, ....... 100,531
AN ACT
• •r THE
GENERAL COURT OF MASSACHUSETTS,
TO CONFIRM Jk>'D E9TAULI5II Till:
RESOLVES OK Tin: SKVERAL PROVINCIAL CONGRESSES OF THIS COLONV,
JULY 20, 1775.
Whereas this oppressed colony has, for many months past, been de-
))rivcd of the free exercise of its usual powers of government, wliich has
necessarily occasioned the public business thereof to be conducted by Con-
^Tesses ; and as many matters of the greatest importance for tlie recovery
and preservation of that liberty, which God, nature, and comjmct have given
to this people, have been resolved, done, and transacted, by Provincial Con-
gresses, some of which Lave not yet had their full effect : and whereas, the
legality of such resolves, doings, and transactions, may hereafter be called
ill (piestion, and may occasion much litigation, unless confirmed and estab-
lished ill some known constitutional manner :
Be it therelbre enacted, by the council and house of representatives of
this colony, in general court assembled, and by the authority of the same, that
all and every [of] the resolves, doings, and transactions of the several Pro-
vincial Congresses of this colony, from and after the fourth day of October,
one thousand seven hundred and seventy-four, to the tweiitietii day of July,
one thousand seven hundred and seventy-five, be, and they hereby are con-
lirmed and establislied, as lawiiil and valid, to all intents, constructions, and
purposes whatsoever, as fully and effectually, as if the same resolves, doings,
and transactions, had been done by any general court or assembly of this
colony.
And be it further enacted, by the authority aforesaid, that whenever any
jierson or persons shall be sued, or prosecuted, beJbre any superior court of
judicature, court of assize, and general gaol deUvery, or belbre any inferior
court of common }»leas, or any court of general sessions of the jieace, or
bifore any single magistrate, lor any thing done in obedience to, or in com-
pliance with any of the resolves, doings, recommendations, or other proceed-
758 ACT OF TfTE GENERAL COURT.
ings of said Congresses, such person or persons shall and may give this
act, and the record of the resolves, doings, and transactions of the several
Provincial Congresses aforesaid, in evidence, under the general issue, and
the same thus given in evidence, shall avail to all intents and purposes, as if
the same were specially pleaded : any law, usage, or custom, to the contra-
ry notwithstanding.
And be it further enacted, by the authority aforesaid, that the records of
the resolves, doings, and transactions of the several Provincial Congresses
aforesaid, be immediately lodged, and forever hereafter kept in the secreta-
ry's office of this colony, and that the secretary shall copy and authenticate
all such records of said resolves, doings and transactions, as shall be de-
manded of him to be used in any of the courts aforesaid, which copies, so
authenticated, shall be received as full evidence, in said courts, of all such
resolves, doings, and transactions.
INDEX.
As tlic t«il)le of cnnlCMis indiralos tlic principal subjects of tins volume, llie index refers
lo ilie pages where tlio names of persons and places are inenlioncd.
Abhoi, John, GIO; Josppli, CGG ; Joshua,
GIO.
Alyinffton, 11,80, 177, 278, 'l-'W, 4i5, Ul,
4o8. G'21.
Abscondin-rSoldiers, 258, 410, 411. 414.
Act of the General Court, confirming do-
infis of each Conjjress, 757.
Acton, y.7;i, 177, 1.'75, 337, 352,458, 515,
G78.
Adams, Amos, 284; Daniel, 5GG, 5G7 ;
Hannah, G77 ; James, G75 ; John, 7, .%,
49, 55, 57, 58, Gl, 8G, y.j, 9G, 170, 725,
739; John, G7I, G72 ; Jonathan, 8.77,
273 ; Joseph, 573, G85 ; Moses, 273 ; Na-
than, 509 ; Samuel, 7, 19. 61, 55, 57, .59,
Gl, 77, 81, 8G, 95, 9G, 97, 101, 105, lOG,
107, 109, I1G, 136, 147, 170, 273, 331,
512, 513, 729, 739, 74G.
Adjutant General, 379, 40t, 446.
Affar, Aaron, 537.
Aid de Cnnip, 574.
Aikin, Benjamin, 12, G2, 81, 84, 141, 163,
183, 2-11, 278, 337, 310, 350, 355, 479.
Airs, Joseph, 572.
Albany, 403, 408, 538, 539, 706, 723, 725.
Alford, 15,83.276.
Allen, Renjamin, 575; Ethan, 233, 235,
G9i"., G!I7, 700, 702, 712, 715, 716, 717;
Thomas, 713.
Alsop, John, 739.
Ames, Benjamin, ."05.
Amesburv, 3. 73, 274, 451. 615.
Amherst,' 10, 79, 177, 276. 33G, 351, 430,
458.
Ammunition, 28, 29, 30, 98, 99. 1.57. 1.58,
197, 215, 210, 249, 2.50, 25<;, 299, 337,
348, 354, 3GG, .372, 105, 413, 420. 421,
422, 423, 428, 429, -UM), 483, 48(i. 487,
489, 505, 508, 509, 510, 516, 5(\G, 570,
673.
Andover, 8, 78, 215, 256, 271, 334, 382,
457,615.
Andrews, Joseph, -535.
Angel, Abiathar. 313 ; James, 170.
Appleton. Nathaniel 7,25.28, 40.42; Rev.
Doct. 20, 22. 29. 42, 49. 67, 81, 10(i.
Armorers. 1.59. 210. 2.73, 251, 284, 291. 317,
325, 32G, 329, 330, .392. 471, 476, 498,
540, 512, S18, 519, 551, 5.52, 653, 562,
565, 574, 586, 587, 690, 592, 595.
.Armstrong. George, 586.
Army, 22. 95, 111.111. 120-9, 135, IW, 163,
171, 175, 18;;, 196. 199.201,21)2, 2(J6,23I,
2.36, 247, 2.53, 293, 3<)0, ;«J5, S(H], 307,
308, 3(J9. 3I(J, 315, 317, 318, 333, ^39,
310, 318, a57, 363. 370, 375, 376, 377,
378, .379, 381, 388. 389, 397. 417, 425,
427, 431, 4.33, 435. U'>8, 413, 415, 167,
473, 478, 452, 486, 489, 490, 491, 492,
493, .520, .523, 525, 526, 510, MI, 552,
5.54, 556, 563, 661, 5(;5, 5<;8, 574, 726,
749,750. See Adjiitanl Generals. Bntr.
adier (lenera/s. (Jommissions. General
Officers. M-ijor Generals. hlilUia.
Ojlicers. Snli'liers. Train.
Arnold, Benedict, 18.5, 231, 250. 258, 259.
263, 264, 265, 287, 288, 325, 328, 332,
491, 527, 629, 531, 532, 695, 697,698,
700, 7(>l, 703, 703, 709, 710, 711, 717,
718, 719, 720, 722, 723, 725
Artificers, 317, .333, 334, 355, 356 423, 493,
572, .576, .590.
Artiili-rv. See Train.
Arundel, 12, 81, 190, 215, 216, 279,309,
315,411,4.58.
Ashbur.diam, 14, 32, 177, 336, 351, 429,
459, 6 13.
Ashbv, 9, 79, 283. 374, 376, 158.
Ashfi'eld, 10, II. 80, .3;}7, 351, 458.
Ashley, John, 652,651.
Aspinwall, Thomas, 60.5.
Assay Masters, 100.
Athearne, James, 279, 479.
Aihcrion, Kliakim, 432.
Aihol, 14, 82, 177, 277, 336, 351, 429, 459.
64.3.
Atkins, Renjamin. See Aikin.
Atileboronoh, 12, 81, 177, £78, 337, 352,
1.58, 575.
Aurhnititv, Doct. 21.
Austin, Benjamin, 36, .381; John, 572;
Jonathan Williams, 9, 610 ; Joseph, 551,
569 ; Thomn-s, 5^19. 569 ; Timothy, 693.
Avery, John. 528 ; Kohert. .396.
Axes, 450, 171, 474, 159, 506, 507.
Babcock, (leorge, 538.
Babiilge, Courtney, 2+1.
Bacon, Jacob, 44!), 678 ; John, 679.
Backus, Isaac, 67.
Badger, John, 570.
760
INDEX.
Badlam, Ezra, 399, 576.
Bailey, Nathaniel. 7, 77, 87, 140, 173, 238,
273, 280, 286, 290, 335, 375, 383, 413,
455,463,466,471.
Baker, Jdjiii, 536; Joseph, 638; Remem-
ber, 718 ; Samuel, 14, 82, 160, 212, 238,
240,277,291, 292, 298, 300, 320, 460,
46.^480.484, 493, 628, 629.
Baldwin, Jeduthaii. 13, 50. 628. 651 ; Jon-
alhaii, 14, 82, 277; Loammi, 302, 609;
Samuel, 14.
Ball, Epaphriis, 698.
Ballard, Joseph, 9; \\'illiam Hudson, 567,
577.
Bahimore, 380, 381.
Bancroft, David, 276, 479, 647, 648, 649;
Edmund, 79,275, 454, 610; Thaddeus,
675.
Baptists, 65, 67.
Bar, Aaron, 578.
Barber, John, 591; Nathaniel. 304, 381,
402, 405, 450. 460, 476, 487, 496, 573,
681 ; Nathaniel, Jr. 572; William, 490,
494, 495, 678 ; Mr. 138, 527.
Barclay, Mr. 746 ; Capt. 281.
Barker, David, 655 ; Josinh, 141.
Barlow, Jes.se, 434; Nathan, 275.
Barnard, Isaac, 638 ; John, 203, 402, 403;
Samuel, Jr. 10.
Barnes, Edward, 9, 19, 20, 67, 610.
Barns, Asa, 445; Henry, 325.
Barnstable, 12, 80, 278," 458.
Barnstable County, 12, 23, 62, 72, 80, 141,
150, 278. 411, 412, 458, 459, 479, 755.
Barracks, 332, 566, 569.
Barre, 14. See Hutchinson.
Harrell, Joseph, 442.
Barrett, James. 9, 16, 61, 78, 109, 146. 148,
208, 209, 211, 225, 228, 232, 255' 274,
283,286, 290, 299, 334, 363, 404, 407,
513,515,517, 518, 547, 549. 673, 674;
John, 672, 673 ; Nathan, 286, 672, 673,
679 ; Samuel, 353, 672, 673.
I'arron, Oliver, 679.
Bartlett, Josiah, 161.
Bass, Jonathan, 535.
Bas.seti, Elisha, 12,81.278.
Balchelder, Joseph, 277 ; Josiah, 8, 28, 29,
62, 78, 91., 106, 113, 140, 153, 160, 163,
168, 183, 192, 196, 210, 212, 232, 237,
274,281, 292, 299, 303, 308, 326, 342,
362,364, 375, 383, 405, 410, 411, 413,
416,454, 463, 467, 474. 480, 481, 483.
Baleman, John, 671.
Bates, P.atnabas, 621 ; Joseph, 587
Bayley, Adam, 121; David, 610; Luther,
421-; Lt. Col. 563.
Bavlies, William, 12,81,83, 141,157,159,
161, 163, 173, 178, 191, 278 290.
Bayonets, 97, 103, 756. See Fire Arms.
Beal, Benjamin, 370; Manwaring, 435.
Beaiiiis, David, 610.
Beard, .Aaron, 610.
Beating Orders, 426.
Becket, 15, 83, 139.
Becket, Mr. 296.
Bedford, 9, 79, 176, 458, 673.
Beetle, Col. 474.
Belcher, Samson, 609.
Bclchertown, 11, 80, 177, 276, 337, 430,
438.
Belfast, 15, 377.
Bell, Daniel, 432; Joseph, 679; Thomas,
80.
Bellingham, 8, 77, 176, 273, 337, 352, 457.
Bemaii, William, 531.
Bemis, Samuel, 691.
i?enjamiir"s River, 377.
Bennett, Joseph, 142.
Benson, J?enoiii, 628 ; Robert, 711.
Bent, Peter, 9, 78, 183, 190, 231, 261, 274,
327, 374. 447, 479.
Berkley. 12. 81. 177. 279, 458 ,626.
Berkshire Couniv, 10, 15, 23, 62,72, 83, 96,
141, 150, 177, 204, 276, 296, 459, 652-6,
719, 755.
Bernard, iMr. 397, 402 ; Col. 683.
Bernardslon, 10, 80, 177, 337, 458.
Berrv, Col. 333.
Berwick. 12, 81, 279, 313, 411, 456, 458.
Bethank', William, 537.
Beverly, 8, 78, 274, 364, 41 1, 412, 457, 615,
679.
Biddeford, 12, 81, 158, 279, 411, 430, 458.
Biddle, Edward. 740.
Bijjelow. Jacob, 9, 52, 275, 355, 393, 404,
450, 484, 487, 489, 610 ; Joshua, 13, 628,
64.3,647.651; Timothy, 13, 34, 72, 82,
140, ISO, 513, 515, 516, 521. 529,628.
629. 631. 635, 638, 640, 641, 647, 648;
649, 650 ; William, 14, 82, 89, 99, 102,
144.
Billerica, 9, 78, 1 13, 131, 132, 133, 134, 176,
274, 352. 457, .573. 679.
Bills of Credit, 186, 187, 246, 255, 256.257,
282, 297, 299, 300. 301 , 320, 333, 334, 383,
386, 396,410, 414,416, 416, 422, 424,434,
437, 441 , 4+3, 460, 462, 464, 467. 471, 473,
484. 583, 588.
Bishop, Samuel, 239 ; William, 500.
Bissell,Isaac, 484. 590.
Blacksmiths, 463, 639.
Blaisdel. Jonathan. 548.
Blanchard, John, 399; Samuel, 4-19 ; Tim-
othy, 679.
Bland. Ivichard, 740.
Blandtbrd. 10, 80, 177, 275, 337, 351, 458.
Blankets, 114, 211, 355, 357, 358, 380, 444,
462.
Bleeker, Henry, 718; John N. 711.
Bli.ss. John, 10, 29, 79, 94, 117, 136, 149,
180, 199, 203, 204, 206, 221, 225, 228,
231, 236, 240, 247, 251, 275, 291, 294,
295, 310, 313, 315, 324, 326, 312, 349,
353, 441, 446, 447, 452, 453. 461, 463,
470, 471, 472, 583.
151odoet, Nathan, 691 ; Samuel. 609.
Boats, 472, 540, 512, 658. iSee Whale
Boats.
Bodwell, John.78,615.
Bocrum, S. 740.
Bos:ert. Henry I. 711.
J$oire and Cla^k. 88, 94.
Boice, James, 7, 549, 604; John, 228, 229,
Boies, William, 276.
Bolton. 14, 82, 102, 177, 256, 277, 336,351,
429, 159, 628, 643.
Bond. Elijah, 610; Henry, 14; Joshua,
690 ; Nathaniel, 555; Col. 239, 581, 585;
William. 520.
Bouncy, Menjamin. 276, 355.
Boothbav. 15, 158,456, 459.
Borden. "Williain, 610.
Borland. John, 632, 538, 548, 5-19, 551, 567,
I.NDKX
Tf.I
Boston, 7, -21, 2G, Vi. 72. 73.77. WJ.i)'.*. KX).
10*;. in.i-ii). i.ii, i.u. \X), i(;t;, 1117. 170.
171, I7;{. IBl, 2();i. '.•;i2. JU. JT.J. .J.V!. i;<i.
+51), k")(;, M't, .")0;i,:>io. ')I2. .j2!». .>;}2,.5Wi,
6j1 , 5W. (ilU. (iu:>, 72H, ll'J, 7.M), 7J(J.
lUilisli Ariiiy ai. 31, 43, «3, 8(J, 87,
1UJ.32J. UJ.5H". 751.
.\riiiv lu'loM-. 37(;, \S2, TIC.
l'..ornt,21>, :y3, .jI-, .V), :>'J, 1 13. 17.">,
I'/C, 2U). '283, iJDO, 'JiKI. odi. 303, t-U,
413. lU. Il.j. .t.V2. Ujt, l-7k 47(i, 471>,
4«r>, km. i'.t;i,ti.')i-. 721!.
Ilcinoval of Iiilinl>iinnls, 37, 4f?,
KW, 11-2, IW, l(i3, lilt, l(J7, 172, 173,
17.i, I7ii, 183, 1<J'2, UI3, 1!»j, 207, '212,
213, 215, 2.51, 2.51), 5iy, 521, 521, 525.
32(i,.52'J, 551.72".).
Bosloii Evening Post, 4, (58, 101 ; G.izelle,
Boston Port Bill, 52. 54, 59, 93, 733, 736.
Boutiiicau, James, 3(i, Gl. 113.
Bowddiii. Klizal>cili. 7.").J ; James, 3G, 49.
Bowdoinliam, 15, 83, 459.
Bowers. Jeiallimiel, 12, :«, 81, 84. 152,
255. 278, 280, 28(i. 290. 299, 305, 313,
453. 4.55. 4t;8 ; Josiali, tilO.
Bowler. .Michael. 157.
Bovviuaii. Ebeiiezer, ()G8; Tiiacideus, GIO.
Boxlord, 8. 78, 2.5(;. 274. 457. 615.
Boyd, William, (JIO.
Bovutoii. James. 57t) ; Nathaniel, 610.
Bracken, Thomas. 21 1, 216.
Bradford. 8. 78. 256, 274. 457. 615.
Bradford. Gamahel. Jr. 401 ; Thomas. 49 ;
William. 49.
Bradisii. Isaac. 532. 544; John. 623; Mr.
214.
Bradley, Amos, 275.
Brandon, Daniel, 12,29,81, 141, 237, 279,
291, 297, 368, 369, 381, 382, 386, 392,
402, 411. 412, 422, 423. 43i;. 444. 447.
Brainlree. 7. 77. 273. 44.1. 457, 487. 531.
531, .535. 340. 583.
Branch, Joseph, 542.
Bratile. Gen. .532, 502.
Breed. Josiali. 679.
Brent. Mr. 5'28.
Brewer. Chaiincev. 10, 79, 273; David,
327, 333, 339, 341, 349. 3<;3, .570,584;
Jonathan, 260, 261, 270, 291, 295, 301,
305, 3'25, 327, 338, 3.39, 311, 31-9, 452,
472, 3J.4, 570, 576, 384, 5a6 ; Samuel,
404. 446.
Brickell. James. 248, 538.
Brid-e, Khenczer. 9. 56. (il. 270. 414. 418.
558.563,590.610, 611, 614; James, Jr.
251; John. Jr. 668.
Briilgf-s. Moody. 8.
Bridjrowaier, 11, 80. 177, 256, 278, 337.
3.52,4.58.514.621.
Brip-js, Kb.MK'z.-r. 621 ; Selh.62l.
Bri^aile Major. 186, 187.
Briyiidier (ioneraU. 3.50. .3i")0. ."V^, 370.
Briffham. George, 9; Joel, 53<> ; Levi, 14.
82, 277.
Brimfield, 10, 80, 177. 275, 337,351,430,
458.
Bristol. 15. 177. 21 1. 216, 135, 439.
Bri>lol Counlv. 12. 23, 62. 72, 81, 117, 129,
130. 141. 1.50, 177,278. .^37. 352-3, 412.
438-9. W5. 479. t326-7. 755.
British Plantations, 57, 732, 736.
0<i
British (loods. '2.5, 27, 40, .5"/, 58, (i*!, 101,
102, Cry.i. 651, 7.13, 7.17.
Briiisii Troops, 31, 4:1. U\. 47,71. 85,86,
87. 101, 129, l;«). 118. 131. I.V». I';6.
218, 2.51, '2.52, 293, 319, .321. 372, 3H9,
•151. UVJ, 510, .5:18, 511, CM, 634, 661-
(191, 70.5, 731, 75{-;5.
Broad, llrzcki.di. 9,610.
Broilllirld, J<lhll. Iil3.
Brookli.ld. 13, 82, 177, 2.V., 276, 298. 299,
336, .351. .398. 429. l.;! , 4.53. 497, (;'28.
BrooklirK',7,71, 77, 108. IKi, 116,147,273,
29.5. 291, 1.57,510.679.
Brooks, I'.henezer, Jr. 610; F.lenzer, 10,
79, I U), 151, 199, 229, 21-1, 217, 273, 2»t,
291. 301, 310. 322. .Vy,, .3:t5, 311, .349,
333, ,-593, 4'H), 101. 417, P.3, MiC. 471,
473. 177. 482. .581, 610 ; Sanuiel. 1 10.
Brown, AMjah, 86,5.59, (ilO; Henjamin,
6!>0; Benjamin, 9, 610; Elijah, ai, 276,
280, 319 ; Francis. 679 ; Jahez, U52 ;
James, 6(i8 ; John, ( I'lllsfield.) 15, 83,
94, (■)52, (i96, 697, 713. 71!) ; John, (Con-
cord.) 1)72. 67 5; John. (Providence.)
1(;2, 165. 1(;6, I(i7. 169 ; John. (179 ; John,
.326, 338 ; Jonathan, (Tewkslnirv.) 9,79 ;
Jonathan, (Watertown,) 8. 19, 59, (i7,
78, 140, 153, 187, 212, 222. 223, 218. 274,
S.52, 36 1., 393, 404, M)5, 421, 427, UM),
4^51, 4Ki, 450. 474. 186, 487, 489, 490,
498, 5(X), .528, 610, 701, 702, 703; Jo-
seph, 169, 170; Joshua, 375, .571; .Mo-
ses, 169; Nicholas, 169; Noah, 2.54;
Capt. 49(;. 389 ; Lt. Col. 2<;i. 262. 325;
Samuel. 718, 719; .Solomon. 662, t>(;:i ;
William, 9, 610. 611 ; Woodbrldge. 11,
80. 98, 179, 187, 209, 233, 238, 232 j
Zachariah,i;77,t;81.
Browne, Samuel, 83, 102, 106, 141; Wil-
liam, 36, 61, 113,617,618.
Brownlield, 231.
Brunswick, 15, 83. 139, 216, 279, 399, 413,
4:5(;, 1,59, b.io, 6.53.
Bryant, Joseph, 610.
Buck, Jonathan, 377.
Buckland, 10.
Buckman, E^Kvard, 610.
Buckminister, Richard, 341 ; Col. M\.
Bugl>y, Edward. 20t;.
Biiitiiich, John, 537.
Bullard, Jonathan, 14; Samuel, 9. 610.
Bullen, Moses, 7, 77, 140. 160, 172, 224,
236.
Bullock, Stephen, 575.
Bunkers Hill. ;}3;5. 3<;3, 409, 423, 463, 543,
.5»;3, .5ti9. .589, 594, .596.
Burbcck, William, 133. 373, 569.
Burgovne, General. 481, 483.
Burr, Tha<ldeus, 707.
15urrows. John, 300.
Biirrill, I'.bcnezer, 8.
Boiler, John, 4,5() ; Joseph, 672. 673 ; Capt.
;501 , .5;50.
Butlerficid, Joseph, 610.
Bullous, 64.
I?iitirick, Nalhan, 672, 67.3.
Buxton, 12,458.
I5var.l, Kol.ert. 319. 350.
Cii.lily, Bolu-ri. ;>06.
( ',ijjiiawauga, 448.
Caldwell. John, 277. 321, 399. 10.'5. 420.
421,425,428,637.
7G2
INDEX.
Caleff, John, 417. 419.
Callender, Johi)/397.
Cambridge, 8, 19, 20, 48, 73, 74, 77, 78,
108, 116, 135, 14<3, U7, 171, 173, 210,
220, 222, 223, 25(5, 2(50, 27+, 305, 322,
335, 3G7, 398, 413, 41^3, 4ol, 452, 457,
474, 490, 505, 508, 510, 512, 513, 520,
641, 542, 543, 547, 551, 56 1, 566, 678,
703.
Campbdl, Alexander, 13, 435, 628; Dun-
can, 638; George. 14; Robert, 405. 407,
410, 419, 420; VVilliam, 212, 214, 215.
Canaan, 232. 235.
Canada, 24, 27, 59, 227, 265, 267, 268, 269,
416, 441, 474. 659. 703.
Canadians, 74. 100, 217, 227, 269, 270, 307,
308, 321, 335. 372, 394, 707, 715, 716,
717.718.721,751,752.
Cannon, 168, 234, 506, 507, 508, 511, 512.
Canteens, 509.
Cape Ann, 423.
Cape Cod, 522.
Cape Elizabeth, 14, 83, 215, 216, 279, 413,
'159, 655.
Cape Porpoise, 12.
Capen, Josiah, 427, 461, 610.
Cargill. James, 215.
Cariion, Gov. 372, 709.
Carpenter. Elisha, 575; Thomas. 12. 81,
85. 141, 278, 378, 410, 411, 451, 471.
Carpenlers' Tools, 510.
Carter, John, 557.
Cartridges, 510.
Casco Bay. 139, 436.
Casile William, 260.
Caswell, R. 740.
Census of Massachusetts, 61, 755.
Chadburn, Benjamin, 36, 37, 40, 436.
Chadwick, John, 276, 333.
Chamberlain, Aaron, 679 ; Nathaniel, 679.
Champlain, Lake, 265, 270, 287, 717, 721,
722, 72:3, 725.
Chandler. Gardiner, 637. 6.38, 642 ; John,
6.35, 638; John, 667; John, Jr. 637;
John, Jr. 667; Col. 41, 50; Joseph, 672,
673; Nathaniel, 638; Rufus, 638.
Chapin, Edward, 275.
Chaplain , Ebenczer. 628, 631 , 635, 636, 651 .
Chaplains, Army, 236, 247, 280, 281, 284,
2'JO. 525.
lo Congress, 22, 49, 84, 109, 158,
184, 187, 189,291,293.
Charlemonl, 10, 11, 80. 177, 337, 458, 619.
Charles River, 451 , 452, 540.
Charlestown, 8. 62. 74. 78, 106. 108, 116,
135, 14C. 147, 173, 256. 274, 320, 322,
333, 358. 409, 45("), 505, 506, 507, 509,
513, 542, 613, 593, 678!
Poor of, 53, 54, 55, 59, 3G2, 423,
427 430, 431, 441, 443, 444, 474, 479,
485, 490, 499, 661.
ChHrlestown, N. H 484.
Charlton. 13. 82, 177, 256, 277, 313, 314,
336. 351 , 429, 431, '158, 628, 643.
Chase, Samuel. 740.
Chaihnm, 12,81,278.458.
ChauMcpy, Charles. 12, 62. 81 141
Checklpv J..hn -1.32.
Cheovcr", David, 8. 20, 35, 42. 56, 60,78
145, 157, 179, 183, 184, 187 222 '>23'
224, 240, 274, 281. 352, 368, 363,' .391 !
408, 131, 446, -1.61, 177, 605-13, 515,
557, 571, 593, GIO; Ezekiel, 403, 432;
Joseph, 401.
Chelmslord, 9, 78, 176, 256, 274, 352. 457,
679.
Chelsea, 7, 8, 77. 273, 442, 457, 622, 523,
533, 538, 541. 545, 557, 561.
Cheney, Thomas, 14.
Chester, 10.
Chesterfield, 1 1 , 80. 177, 276, 337, 458.
Child.John. 14.82.277,628; Timothy, 449.
Chilmark, 13,81.279,458.
Church, Benjamin. 7, 17, 25, 35, 41, 50,52,
55,59,65.77,87-9, 117, 132. 150. 201,
203, 208, 220. 229. 232, 236, 238, 240-1,
273, 353, 357-8. 361-2, 390, 398. 400,
444, 446-7, 455, 460-1, 471, 479, 481,
483, 485, 489, 493, 506-6, 509-12, 534,
638, 641, 613, 648, 560, 663, 696, 605,
661,741; Moses, 223.
Claflin, Ebenezer, 284.
Clap, Daniel, 13, 642; Ebenezer, 248;
Eleazer, 12.
Clark, John, U, 82; Joseph, 432; Mat-
thew, 472, 542, 516, 551, 590; Peter,
432 ; Seth, 7 ; William, 8.3, 610.
Cleaves, Nathaniel, 679.
Clergy, 56, 60, 280-1, 28.3-4, 290, 479.
Clerk of Commiliee of Salety, 605, 508,
536.
to President of Congress, 642.
Cleveland, Ebenczer. 340.
Clothing for the Armv, 367-8, 436, 444,
456-7. 467, 469, 478," .593.
Cobb, David, 12, t)2, 141, 627; Elisha,
278,318,479; Samuel, 141.
Coburn. Peter. 79
Codman, Jolin, 610 ; Richard, 436, 665.
Coffee, 67.
Coffin, Josiah. 141 ; Peter, 8, 62, 78, 88,
212, 274, 3.33, 343, 374, 404, 410-1 1, 413,
416-17,423,615.
Cogswell, Jonathan, Jr. 615 ; Thomas,
24S.
Cohasset, 7, 77, 273, 457, 4S6, 5 10, 669-60.
Colburn, Ephraim,610; Peter, 610.
Coldeii. Gov. 745--6.
Cole, Andrew, 12 ; Eliplialet, 676 ; Wil-
liam, 575.
Collins, William, 277.
Colraine. 10, 11. 80, 177, 276, 337, 453.
Colson, Ebenezer, 636
Combs, Woolcombers', 64.
Comie, Joseph, 679.
Commissaries, 97, 165. 207. 242. 361-2,
410.417,432 4,416,448, 450, 471, 606,
510; 521. 525, 527, 632, .542, 544, 646,
61S-9, 557.
Commissions for Officers, 163, 174-5, 242,
377, 387, 396, .397, 425, 427, 445.
Commiilees of Corrpspondence, 53, 69, 72,
87,10.5-7,140.414.
Commiilees from other Colonies, 308, 310,
318, 3i5.
Conant. Daniel, 679.
Concord. 9. 15. 78, 108-9, 146-7, 176, 274,
407,420, 467, 607-9, 611, 513-17, 522,
629,519,609.679
Britoh Troops al. 148. 1.54-5, 173,
208-9. 211. 220, 243, 524, 685.
Congress, (Continental,
Delegates to. 49. 53. 65, 67. 61. 74,
86-7, 95-6, 229, 231, 522, 735, 739-10.
iM)i:x.
:<;:i
Coiis-res!*, Leiter to, IW. 187, 221», 2nO. '2GI,
3iy-ii», ;!JI. ;t{."i. .{(;.). un. '/Jo. 7U,
I'locci-iliiifjs oi.VJ, b>\-a, 66, 351,
lV)'J. ;!'.ij, tioi, liV,, 7'ij-(i, 742.
Coiisffuss, I'roviiK'iiil,
— Sossions of, 3, Ci, 7, IS, ID, 20. W,
73-k 77, IU8-'J, 1I(J, 1K;-7, .27lt, 27:1,
501.
Delognios lo, 7-15, 77-83, 112,
17 1, ID.?, VXi-a, \[M, -2:M\, 27.J-U, 51 1 , »J51.
Joiinial (i/, 151, 15(i, 24.W, 353.
K.jjulaiioiis of, 23, 30, 51, 55, 88,
yi. Vl. ln;i, KkU.'j.
L'allinsr lc)!;i-t|)pr of, .352, 451, 510,
GOl. 6n.C.17,(;20, (i24, G33.
Conkliii, I'l'iij.iiiiiii, C>2'i.
CoiiiitTiiciii. Coloiiv. 105. 157, 2r)'l-;), 307,
4I(!. 415. 475. .V^o. 70<">. 713, 7i>. 719.
Corrosponilfiirp with. K^i. I4i), 150,
151 , 1 <.i| . 1 'J3- k 13 1, 2.311, 2ti3. 2(i(i-y, 288,
30.S, 387-'J. 401, 4111, 435, 623, 533, 536,
707. 701)-10.
IKlogates of, 105. 191, 735, 739.
Dclejj.iles lo, 135-8, 149, 179, 182,
183. I9(i, 198.
Troops. 525, .527, 53(», 12(1.
Consi.il.les ami Collectors. 19,38-9,45-6,
113-14. .50(;-7. ('.03. (JiO, 1)24. 713.
Conway. 10, 7'.t, 177, 337, 4,53
Cook, joiiii, KJO, 472 ; Samuel, G79 j Rev.
Samuel. 571; Ll (lov. 460.
Cooledi;e, Joseph, 678.
Cooli.loe, Dorothy, 280, 327, 348, 459, 551:
William, filO.
Cooper. Heiijainin, 678 ; Rachel, 678 ; Sam-
uel. .33i". ; Rev. Doct. 184, 187, 594;
William. Jr. 135, 2(.X), 450, 534, 53i;, 542.
Corbet, John, 273. tidj.
Cottle. Shubael, 141.
Cotton, Chailes, 32(;-7 ; Col. 270, 376, 133.
514, 558. 563; Theophilus, 621.
Coulsoii, Capt. 219, 397.
Couiitv Committees, 139, 110-1, 161-5.
168-9, 172.
County Conventions, 601-660.
County Records. 209.211.
Council, Constitutional. 40, 50-1.
of War, 537, 5k5.
Counsellors. See Matuiiimus.
Court of Inquiry. 2'">2.
Courts, Executive. 30. 41.
Courts of Justice. t;i2-I4. 616, 623, 627,
632, ti31-35, 637, 641-2. 751.
Courts, Martial, 12(;-8.
Covenant. Non-Consumption, 650, 653,
Cowden. Thomas, 577.
Cox, Lieut. 390.
Craft, Aimer, 233 ; Kbenezer. -432.
Crafts, Edward. 211, 106, 490, 500, 515,
527-8.
Craigie. Andrew. 1-46. US, 530, 51,5, .597.
Crane, Stephen, 740; Thomas, 7, 77, lAJ,
131, 141 , 148, 163, 21.I., 255. 273,281, ^7,
399, kM. HI, 4-15, ■1»4, 466, 488, 490,
495. 41)9.
Crispo, Thomas. 500.
Crockett. Isaiah. 2H-.
Crombv. Aaron. 576.
Crooker. John.l-W.
Crosby. Doct. 637.
Cross." Stephen, 78. 139, 212,233, 274, 322,
4-15, 152.615.
Croiit, J. 516.
Croswell. Andrew, M)l.
Cniwn I'oiiii, iU, 'il9, 266-70, 287-0, 327,
•UVl. U,u. 11»0. 69.>-72»;-7.
Cudvvorth, .Mr. ;J01.
Cumberland, County, 14, 23 62, 72, S.^,
1 II, 27'.». 310, ,{21, 383, 38<;, 390, 412-13,
■l,)9, 6.V>-660, 7.5.5.
Cun)min;;s, John, t)71'l ; Jonathan, 221.
Cunninjii^ham. Mr. .528.
Currency. Sec Wi//« of Credit.
Curriei, John, 515; NathauicI, 274, 298,
411,61.5.
Curtis, Caleb, 277, 315, 628 ; James, 5;{.5 ;
Mr. 6).52; .Nehemiah, 20<J ; Samuel, 610.
CuNJiint;, ISenjamiii, 5.J.5 ; Caleb. ;J(i-7, W,
51 ; <hailes,370; Elijah, 621 ; Job, 591,
643 ; John, Jr. 621 ; Joseph, 11, .55. Cti],
80, 8.5, 95, 97, 118, 1:50, 148. 2.Vj. 278,
281, 291. 298, ;500. 310, 363, 371, 377,
479. (■)21-2; Lemuel, 421, 621; Nathan,
11. 27, 62, 80, 83-1, 95. 116, 1 U, 1.50.238,
210-1, 278, .3(J1, ;303, 498, 510, 621 ; Scth,
278, 33ii, 622 ; Thomas. 7. 37, 10, 49,
50-3, 5.5, 57, 61, 77, 84, 86. 9.5-6, 101,
105-7, 1.50. 170, 273, 286, 512-13, 538,
569, 739, 748, 751 ; William, 622.
Culler, Ebenezer, 253, 552-3 ; Wiili.im,
655.
Cuti, Edward, 12, 23, 81, 158, 279. 290,
300-1,350, 107,411,441.
Dag^ei. Daniel, 575; James, 575; Sam-
uel. 399.
Daggett. John. 12.81. 150.
Dahoii. Tristram, 78. 615.
Dana. Francis. 8 ; William, 578.
Danforth. Joseph. tilO; Samuel, 30. 613;
Timothy. 519, 610.
Danielson, Timothy. 10, '25, 36,61, 67. 80,
109, 117, 137. 141. 180, 203, 208, 220.
270,275,318,467,619.
Danvers, 8. 77, 274. 105, 157, 615, 679.
Darling, Wdliam, 22, 108.
Dartmouth, 12, 81, 177, 183, 229, 232, 235,
278, 295, 303, 412, 4^, 448, 458, 527,
626.
Dartmouth. Lord. 525, 633-4, 745. 747.
Davis. A.nron.7. 77. llO-l, 168. 189, 238,
240. 273. 21»I, 293. 33.3, 313. 369, 375,
401,421, 161.
Davis and Coverlv, 318, 3'25.
Davis, Daniel, 12, 23. 26, 62. 72. 80. 85.
141. 150, 198, 206, 278, 317, 3;57, 411 ;
Edward, 276, ,374, 397 ; ilepsibelh, (i90 ;
Isaac. 673; John. 490. 494-5; Joseph.
6.55; Joshua, W>7-8. 493 ; Stephen. 610;
Thomas, Jr. 677, (i31,
Dawes, William, 507.
Denne. Silas. 725. 739 ; Mr. 474.
Declaration of Rights. 50. 5(5.732-5.
De.lham. 7. 77. 27.1. 457, 5k). I'.Ol. 679.
Deer Island. 21-1. 219. 291. 3.55. 10.5.
Deerfield. 10.79. 177.3.57.351, 453.
Deland. Henjamin. Jr. 679.
Deming. David. 83.
Dcnch. Gilbert, 284 ; Roger, 9. 610.
Denham, Daniel, 79.
Dennv. Thomas. 13, 623. 610, 643-4, 6145.
Derby, Richard, Jr. ;J»i-7. k), 62, 151, 159,
183, 271.285, 52;?, 615.
Deserters. 390.
Devcus, Richard, 8, 19, 25, 28-9, 35, 42,
764
INDEX
62, 55, GO, Ifi. 89, 91, lOG-S, 111, 133,
140-1, 145. 147; 191, 238, 240-1, 274, 362,
498, 505-lG, 526, 338, 561-2, 3G6-7, 581,
383, 587, 590, 394-5, 610-11.
Dexter, John, 9, 78, 163, 169, 208, 228,
326, 520, 610; Jolm, 9, 78, 163, 169, 208,
228, 326, 520, 610 ; Samuel, 7, 16, 23, 36,
37, 50-1,77, 109, 165, 163, 178-9, 183, 187,
197, 248, 235, 257, 273, 286, 299, 305,
308, 321, 324, 414, 416, 437, 444.
Dickerson, John, 10, 79, 275, 392, 427, 430,
431,584.
Dickinson, John, 740; Israel, 713; Na-
thaniel, Jr. 10,79,162,276.
Dighion, 12, 81, 278, 458, 626.
Dike, Mr 5.53.
Dinsmore, David, 217, 227.
Ditson, Thomas, 113, 131-4,
Dix, Jonas, 79, 86, 148, 130, 132, 156, 158,
161, 172, 174, 178, 183, 185, 196, 198-9,
202, 204, 208, 212, 221-3, 229, 234, 247,
248, 675, 678.
Doane, Joseph, 12, 278.
Dodge, George, 362-3 ; Jacob, 615 ; Rich-
ard, 244 ; William, 679; Mr. 647.
Dolhber, William, 613.
Donaldson, Col. 558, 363, 374.
Donations. See Boston. Charlestown.
Doniiell, Thomas, 473.
Doolitlle, Ephraim, 14, 19, 20, 25, 27, 51,
218, 270, 538, 385, 628, 631, 641.
Doorkeepers to Congress, 16, 22, 108, 281,
485.
Dorchester, 133, 457, 309, 340-1, 368-9.
Delegates, 7, 74, 77, 108, 116, 146,
147, 273.
Dorr, Joseph, 13. 637.
Douglas, 14, 82; 177, 277, 336, 351, 429,
439, 628, 643.
Douglas, Robert, -610.
Dow, Nathan, 244; Reuben, 401.
Dracut, 9, 79, 176, 256, 273, 337, 352, 458.
Draper, William, 670.
Draper's Newspaper, 650.
Drew, William, 621.
Drury, Luke, 559, 561, 567, 628, 631, 642.
Duane, James, 739.
Dudley, 14, 82, 177, 277, 336, 351,429, 459,
643.
Duels, 123.
Duer, Ebenezer, 604 ; Judge, 722-3.
Dnkes County, 13, 23, 62, ^2, 81, 141, 279,
393,411,458-9,479,735 6.
Dunbar, Major, 528.
Dunkinson, John, 306.
Dunn, Samuel, 6.55.
Dunning, Andrew, 655 ; Benjamin, 200.
Duiismore, William, 13, 82, 168, 178, 203,
276, 628, 642, 648-9.
Dunstable, 9, 79, 177, 273, 337, 332, 438.
Durant, Edward, 9, 78, 148, 240, 449, 610;
Isaac, 667.
DurCce. Thomas, 62, 81, 278, 282, 342,368,
412, 411, 453, 4<;0. 479.
Durham, Nicholas, .500.
Duxbury, 11, 80, 103-1, 278, 401, 458, 513,
621.
Dwight, Josiah, 276 ; Nathaniel, 276 ; Sim-
eon, 82, 8H, 141-2, 1.56, 159, 160, 184,
191, 193-4, 198, 251., 277, 281, 290, 295,
299, 305, 317, 326-7, 333-4, 355, ■105, 422,
4M, 161, 167.
Dyer, Eliphalet, 739 ; Jeduthan. 655.
Eager, INahum, 1 1.
East Hoo-ock, 177, 4.59.
East India Goods, 101-2, 736-7.
Easierbrooks. Jedediah, 44^2.
Easiham, 12, 81, 278,280, 28?, 285-6, 289,
458.
Easton, 12, 81, 177, 278. 458, 626.
Easton, James, 233, 235, 295, 297, 4«6 8,
501, 696-8, 704, 712, 719, 722.
Eaton, Henry, 615 ; John, 383.
Edesand Gill, 28, 143.
Edes, Peter, 610; Mr. 349, 397, 405.
Edgarton, 13, 81, 279, 363, 458.
Edgecombe, 11, 15.
Edson, Josiah, 36, 61, 113.
Edwards, Benjamin, 301, 305 ; Michael,
493 ; Picrpont, 707 ; Solomon, 584 ;
Timoihv, 276, 281, 290, 295, 298. 304,
318, 326, 332, 348, 333, 362, 453, 718, 719.
Eells, Robert, 621.
Egamaoon Reach, 3-19, 355.
Egremont, 15. S3, 177, 276, 439.
Elder, John, 584.
Election Sermon, 218, 221, 280, 362.364,
387, 393.
Electrical Points, 451. 583
Elizabeth Islands, 394 5, 413, 418, 733.
Ellis, Abncr, 7, 77, 137, 140, 255, 273, 306,
333, 405, 434, 444, 450, 479, 584 ; Enoch,
8, 77, 273, 358, 474, 489.
Ely, Benjamin, 10, 275, 341, 352, 462,
583-5.
Emerson, Bulkley, 223 ; Joseph, 433; Rev.
William, 16, 109, 146, 286, 298. 299, 300,
Engineers, 152-3, 157.
England See Great Britain.
Enlisting Orders, 411-12, 419, 426, 525.
Ensigns, 377.
Erving, John, 36-7, 40; John, Jr. 36, 61, 113.
Essex County, 8, 23, 62, 77, 140. 159-60,
256, 274, 411, 412, 436, 452. 157, 459,
471,479,615 618,735.
Essex Gazette, 4, 72.
Estes, Richard, 387.
Estabrook, Benjamin, 691.
Europe, Intelligence from, 170.
Eustis, William, 571.
Evans, Barnabas, 484.
Everett, Israel, 679.
Ewing, Joseph, 655.
Exeter, N. H. 260.
Exports of Massachusetts, 61, 111.
Exportation of Provisions, 323, 333, 727.
Express Riders, 557.
Fabyan, Joshua, 655.
Fairbanks, Ephraim, 14; Thomas, 276,
318,333,358,421.
Fairfield, Benjamin, 8, 78, 274, tl5, 613.
Fales, David, 4,36.
Falmouth, (Cumberland County.) 14, 83,
190, 215, 217, 222-3, 237, 279, 402, 413,
436, 459.
Falmouth, (Barnstable County,) 12, 81,
222-3,278,458,531.
Farley, John, 216 ; Michael, 8, 23, 36, 62,
72, 78, 95. 109, 140, 137, 173 183, 185,
187, 203. 229, 233-6, 274, 282, 292. 294-5,
303, 313, 322, 323. 340, 360, 369, 375,
384, 386, 390, 405, 41 1 , 419, 120, 427, 444,
445, 460, 486, 493, 499, 615 ; Nathaniel,
615.
I\1)F,X.
f^J.'j
Farmer, Nnlhanicl. r.79, C88.
F;irr.ir. Siiimiil, 10. (".10.
FiirriT. JoiMllinii, (H'i-;!.
F.ls.ofl. l'>tMljillllill. "it. ("lIO.
Fa>l. Diiv ci. ,'4, ;»7. 107-8. llJ-5, 1(55,
3;«-3. 37:>, ;i8»-3. 3yo. 3'Ji 3, G3l.
Ftiulkiipr, Frniiris, 'J. (>10.
Fav. A.itdii. .j;i7 ; .Asa, .j37 ; Jonas, 718,
ll'.l; Josiah. IJ'J, C 111 ; l,i-\vis t'.^t.
Fell. -ws, John. I;). :2'J-.!, 1^.8:!, 'iyd. Mo,
Srj. 5H. ,jj| . oGO, 5G3 ; Saiiuicl, 276.
Felt. Joshua, (wit.
Feniio, Kphraiin, 145 ; John, 432.
Feiitoii. John, U'lO.
Fesson.lon. John. 27fi, S'iJG. U.l, 171; Mr.
3.W-;l ; Thoinas. (;701.(i88.
Fielil. David, 79; Moses. 7'J. lOfi, 224.
Fire A^lns,3^. (53, 110. I'JH, t'OO, 201, 208,
20!», 332, 330-7, 348, 330-2, 3'J7, 402,
40(; 7, 413, 419, 4^13, 452, 4C2, 505, 510,
53f>-7, 584, .585-7, 590-5, 7j(;.
Fish,Exporta(ioiiof, 3ll.:?lo,.n7..382,113.
Fish, Simeon, 407, 410; Rev. Elisha, C49,
651.
Fisher, Jabez, 7, 77, 85, 87, 89, 98, 143,
151, 153, 158, 1G3, 20G, 224. 235, 255,
273, 280, 283. 290, 2<I9, 313, 355. 3f)3-4,
374-5, 38G, 393-4, 397, 400, 415, 417,
423-5, 460. 479. 501, 508, 514.
Fisheries, 285. 313, 314. 716-7.
Fish, Josiah, 610; Mr. 588; Samuel, 8.
Fiske, Benjamin, 689.
F.tchburjr. 14, 82, 177, 277, 336, 331, 429,
431,439.643.
Flagg. Samuel. 561.
Flax, 63, 639.
Flax Seed. 63.
Fletcher. Asaph. 610.
Flint. Henry, 286; John, 610; Jonathan,
610.
Flints, 756.
Florida. 313.
Flour, 354. 330-1 . ;^05, 727.
Flovd. William. 739.
Flucker. Thomas, 36, 61. 113, 331. 477,
609, 6U-.. 744.
Flyni, William. 679.
Fogn;, Reuben. 633.
Forey, John, 326, 329. a30.
Folger. Timothy. 141 ; Capt. 481.
Folsom, Nathaniel, 161, 739.
Foot. Capt. 516.
Fori Edward. 723.
Fort George. 700. 701.711.
Foster, Amos, 276 ; Benjamin. 396, 399,
433 ; Isaac. 8. 23. 28. 32-3. 60, 251.. 299,
464, 527, 610; James, 223. 380; Jede-
diah, 13, 17, 29, 36, 38, 41 2. .50, 62, 82,
84, 117, 118, 136, 140, 180, 201-3, 208,
21 1 , 212, 228, 231 , 233, 233-7, 24.3-1, 2 IC,
276. 297-9. 318, 324. .327, 333, 406, 4(i2,
463.511.512.628,720; Joseph, II, 171,
276, 355, 449, 521. .'yio, 546-7; Nathan-
iel, 621 ; Thoinas Wait, 315.
Fothergill. l>r. 746.
Fowle. Edmund, 462, 478.
Fox Island, 3.33.
Fox. Joseph. 277, 326, 363, 434, 436, 43^1,
460,471,487-8.
Foxcroft. Mr. 549.
Framingiiam. 9, 78, 176, 216, 256, 274.
352, 457, 679.
Frankland. I.ndy, 23C, 238-10. 541; Sir
Heiirv :M\.
Franklin. Benj.imin. 53, 153, K.G, 18,i, 188.
Franklin CoimiIv. 10.
Fneni Benjamin. 12, «l,98, 101.11.3,
117.130. 1.36, 111,1111, I5I,I.')3, 137.184;
Enoch, I 1. 2.1. 36. 62. 217, 218, 220, 222,
223. 227. 2;!7 8, 241-2. 3.'i3-(i. .'tt;3 :;W,
392. 402, 105. 411. 412, -KJC. 477, 480, .'JOl,
G33 6, 6(;o ; J.4ui, 490, 4913; Nathan-
iel, 278, 291. 294, 392. 4.'7, 479, .022 ;
Samuil.83. 89, in. 150, 1;')6, Mil, lU,
217, 22(t, 223, 232, 248, 273. 279, 2;!.'>,
308, 3,58, 384, 386, 419, 4.36, 461, 468,
47(i-7, 301, 355, 6.55-6, ()60-l ; Samuel,
Jr 573.
Kroeiown. 12, 62, 81, 129, 278, 458, G26.
French, 'I'homas, 10.
Ficiichman's Bav, 471, 475.
Fridges. Harris ('lary, 449.
Fri/.ri, Elisha, .576.
Frost, Ei.hraim, (.09; Gideon, .586, 595;
Samuel, tJ78 ; Siej.hen. 374, 573.
Frothingham, John, 254, 610.
Frv, James, 248, 303 414, 418, 43.1, 545,
538, 563, 581, 584, 613; Joseph, 370,
378.
Frve, Peter, 617.
Fuller, Abraham, 9, 78, 149, 163, 274, 375,
398. 472-3, 499, 686; Archelaus. 8. 16,
26,32,61, 67,78, 84. 86, 89, 102, 105,
109. 1 17, 135, 1.37, 1.39, 149-52, 156, 158,
KiO, 179, 187, 190, 196, 198. 201 5, 210,
220, 2.32, 236. 231, 274. 284. 291, 296-7,
303, 303, 318, 332, .340. 342, 338, 364,
369, 374, 380, .'383,393, 406, 411, 413,414,
416, 417, 422, 431, 430, 471-2, 474, 479,
486, 489, 490, 495, 499, 613; Ephraim,
615.
Fulton. James, 279.
Fuiiiass, Robert, '136.
Gadsden. Christopher, 740.
Gage. Thomas, 5, 13, 18,20-1,31. 36, 46,
103. 116, 129, 147, 159, 1(53-4. 166-7,
1704. 176, 179-82. 189. 191-4, 208, 245.
293, 346, 442, 476, 511, 519. 521, 524,
529, 333, 351, 563. 389-!i0, 607,619-20,
6a3-4. (5.:7-8, 6 16, 661, 679-84,731,741,
712. 717.
Addresses to, 17, 42, 104, 132, 212.
603, 607, 6:36, 614, 727-8. 730.
I'roclanuitions of, 3, 4, 330-1,341,
343, 323. 368, 743-4.
'I'roops nf. See British Armij.
Gagehorough. 13. 83. 439.
Galloway. Joseph, 740.
Gardner'. Grallon, 141 ; Henrv, 9. 19, 20,
26, 38 9, 45, 61 , 66, 79, 85, ^1, 93-6, 101 ,
106, 108, 113-14, 142, 143-6, 132-3, 162,
174, 1813. 191, 193, IW. 207, 229. 2;34,
23<;, 2H-3, 2(;0, 27.5. 28(i, 3 k!, 394, 151.
451, 166, 471. 490, 195. .506-7, 312-13,
610-11.743; Isaac. 603. 679 ; Jonathan,
613; Samuel, 603; Thomas. 8. 19. 20,
22,23, 29,31, 41. 42, 19. 51, 67. 78, 84,
94, Kit;, 108. 133. 144. 198. 240, 292.
374. 511. 514-15. 526-7, 5:30, .5.S7. 548,
555. 5.58, 3(53-4, 5i]l . .581 . 583, 609, 61 1.
Gardnerstoii. 13. 83. 279. 439.
Garfield, Abraham, 671-2.
(Jates. Hezekiah, 628, 617; Horatio. 432.
Gay, Elisha, 373.
r66
INDEX.
General Court. 3-5, 13. U, IIG, 159, 163,
IW, 1[»2, 35l», 3G9, 397.
General OT^cers. 33, 35. 65, 90, 102, 160,
175, 233, 253, 335, 379, 467, 472-3, 726.
Goorg-os, John. 419.
Georgetown, 15, 83, 139, 214, 217-18, 222,
2Z3. 279, 43G, 459.
Georgia. 313.
Gerri^h. Jacob, 244, 291-2. 295 ; Joseph, 8,
78, 84, 140, 152-3, 161-2, 169-70, 174,
183, 190 1,201,212, 221. 228. 231, 274,
280, 282. 290, 297, 505, 320, 322, 332,
340,352-3,368,375.386, 389. 391, 397,
401-2, 410 11, 413. 470, 473, 528. 563-4,
615: Samuel, 2+4, 2923, 529, 552, 579,
615; William, 12, 52, 62, 67, 178, 248,
270.
Gerrv. Elbrldge. 8, 17, 23, 25, 29, 36, 38,
40; 45, 50. 78, 84, 91, 101, 105-7, 109,
117, 136-7,' 147 50, 159-62. 109-70, 174 5,
183. 190-2, 206-8, 212. 216, 220, 232,
239-40, 246, 253, 274, 294, 308. 322, 352,
369-70. 372, 391, 411, 452. 481-3, 486,
498, 500-1, 508-13, 515-16, 550, 615, 618,
661 ; Samuel Russell, 4o2.
Geichell. John. 4.35.
Gihbs. Jacob, 610.
Gilbert, Joseph, 631, 647 ; Col. 130, 133.
Gill, 10.
Gill and Edes. 28. 145.
Gill, John. 484, 491, 495. 55.5. 592 ; Moses,
14, 2.5 6, 35, 48, 82, 93. 102. 105-7, 116,
149, 152, 161. 1G9. 174-5, 179, 183, 185,
187, 193. 199. 212. 221, 228, 277, 280,
398, 400, 445-6. 454. 461, 476, 479, 439,
491, 500-1, 505-13. 515, 628.
Gilman, Andrew. 385. 391-4.
Glasher, Benjamin, 435.
Glass, 64.
Gleason, Phinehas. 609.
Glidden. Charles, 195-6.
Gloucester. 8, 62,78, 274, 377,411-12,4-42,
457,561,61.5.
Glover. John, 314. 327. 338-9, 311, 368,
377, 524, 502-3. .531, 584; Jonathan, 274,
281, 293, 300, 305, 341, 348, 374, 379,
446, 449. 451-2. 463, 486, 433-9.
Goddard, John, 7, 512, 549; Robert, 637.
Goldsborough, 405, 43.5.
Goldihwaiie, Ebenezer, 679; Capt. 217,
226, 377.
Goodale, Abel. 11.
Goodman, Noah, 10. 79, 141, 159-60, 163,
182, 275, 349. 355, 370, 375, 373, 383,
399, 404. 410. 413, 420-1, 421 5, 428.
Goo.lrich. William. 2<.»9, 311, 313, 355.
Goodridfff. Charles, 141 ; David, 14, 82,
141, 173, 304, 400, 403, 528; Samuel,
615; William. 1141.5, 118.
Goodwin. Edward. 254; Ichabod, Jr. 81,
141, 1.50. 158, 174. 220, 279, 297, 310,
374-5, 373, 392, 399, 400-1, 411. 413.
418. 421-2. 431, 436, 441, 444-5, 686;
William, 542.
Gordon, William. 189, 218, 291, 393, 4-46,
500, 53fJ. 560, 594.
Gorham, 15. 83, 160. 279. 459. 655.
Gorham, Nalhaniel, 8, 17, 20. 52. 62,78,
89, 94, 108. 114, 254, 676; William, 655.
Goss. John, 101.
Gould. Edward Thornton, 675-6 ; John,
274,293,374,467,613.
Goulding, John, 14.
Government, Form of, 207-8, 219, 230,
319, 357-9, 365, 727, 741-2.
Gralion. 14, 82, 177, 277, 336, 351, 429,
459,559,561,643.
Graham Doct. 413. 421.
Grnnbv, 10, 79, 177, 275, 536, 351, 430,
458."
Grannis. John, 394-5.
Gran%ille, 10, 11, 80, 177, 275, 337. 351,
453.
Graves, Abner. 326, 332. 572 ; Oliver, 10;
Perez, 79; Samuel. 346, 522.
Gray, Allen, 461 ; Alexander, 496 ; Ellis,
341, S43; Haiiison, 19. 36, 33, 45. 61,
11.3, 620. 647, 743; John, 301. 401, 621 ;
John, 655.
Great Harrington, 15, S3, 177, 222-3, 276,
459.
Great" Britain. 15.3-4. 419, 427, 463, 523,
755,737,741.744-8.
Greaion. John Jr. 173, 529.
Greele, Mrs. ^55.
Greene. Benjamin, 82; Daniel, 422, 480,
484. 500; l<aac, 667; Joseph, 36} Na-
hum,82; William. 610.
Green Mnuniaiu Boys, 726.
Greene. General, 461, 467. 473. 475, 432.
Greenfield. 10. 79, 177. 275, 337, 351, 438.
Greenlaw, Alexander, 349, 350
Greenleaf, Benjamin, 36, 40, 238 2^1-2,
455. 498. 55.5 6 ; Jonathan. 8. 2.5. 35, 37,
38,62.78,84,91,93,111.137, 148. 160,
163. 168-9, 173. 183. 1&5. 229. 236, 274,
230-1. 294, 293. 300. 308-9. 325, 403,
410-12, 413, 422. 431. 442, 445, 449, 3&4,
615; Joseph. 224; William, 224.
Greenough. Simon. 22.3
Greenwich. 1 1 , 80, 177, 276, 337, 458.
Greenwood. Marv. -485.
Gridley, Richard', 157, 212. 300, 304, 315,
3S4. 373-4, 378, 445, 520, 546, 550, 561,
569. SW; Samuel. 397; Scarborough,
373, 520. 569 ; Wdliam. 254.
Grievances, 43-4, 49, 50, 56, 58, 344.
Grimer. William. 667.
Groton, 9. 79, 176, 256, 275, 337, 352, 457,
515-18.
Groin. Jonathan. 32. 86. 140. 163, 171. 192,
255; 277. 291. 298-9. 313, 326, ;332-3, 347,
375, 427. 430-1. 434, 441, 445-6, 448,
45.5, 460. 4<">3. 4<36-8, 479, 623.
Guild. .Nathaniel. 604. _
Guillam. Benjamin. 595.
Guiteau. Ephraim, 83.
Gunlocks. (is.
Gunpowder. See Powder. Ammuniiion.
Guns. See Fire-arms.
Gunn. Moses. 10. 129. 275. 349. 360, 4^4.
Gurnev. Zachariah. 491, 4^.
Hadley, 10, 79, 177, 275, 336, 351, 429,
458.
Hadley, Samuel, 679; Thomas, 679.
Hagar. Micah. 663.
Hale. John, 79. 160. 233, 251, 275, 281,
290. 313. 3-26, 338,382; Jonathan, 284;
Jonathan, Jr. 10; Joseph, 574, 615 ; Mo-
ses, 14.
Halifax. 11.30. 177.278.458,621.
Hall. Benjamin. 9. 26, 38, 62. 79, 88-9,
168. 212, 275, 375, 399. 417, 471, 474,
505-3, 562 ; Ezekiel, 239 ; Jeremiah, 80,
INDEX.
7«i7
111, 27a, ;ii-o.i, .vv), aw. xn, :v.i, rvu,
(hM-'i; Mr. .OCi. I7.J. 211, ;Ull. .027, 5.J0 ;
iMr. 217; Sieplien. 3il 711, HU, 115, i?."),
:5k», 172-;!. lit, .•).-) I
il.iiu-ii. Jo-i('|iii. i4;i). W)ii.
H.ill.nvi-ll, i;).(!:5. k);».
ll,ill(.w,-ll. U.-Mjanii I..U';.
Ilainillnii. Jdliii. .'7li.
HiiiniDoixl. Joriailiaii, (ilO; Joshua, (tlO;
NalhiiiiM'l, t!2l.
Hatnpsliire Coutiiy, 10, 23, r>2, 72, *fl, %,
in, ICO. 177, 20K 27.'). -XM]-!, :«l-2,
;V.»7. 107, 420, 422-;J, 428-9, •158-11, G|8,
7;w.
liampi'cn Coimtv, 10.
Hniicork. J.ihii.4. 7, 1.5, ir>, 35-fi, 5.5, .57,
S'.l, 74. 77. Hi, HC. 8|t, [)G-1. WUl, \4i',,
15;J, 170, 22.5, iW. 210-1, 27:?, ;«U, XU,
35;J-4. 3.51t, 4118, .50j-|.5. .527-8. 7l0.7U;-7.
Hanover. 1 1 . 80. 10.5 4. 278, 458, >>2l.
Hap«foofl, Asa, 1)28 ; Hpliraiin, !•, (JIO.
Harding, Samuel, 278, m.
Hardwuk. 14, ti7-8, »2. 177, 277, 280, 336,
.3.51. till. 451»,(;28, 643.
Harndcn, Elienezer, 9,78, 274, 484, filOj
Samuel, 8.$.
Harps well, 15, 83, 200, 413, 459, 493-4,
G55
Harrington, Caleb, 679; Daniel, 664,667;
Jeremiah. 689; John, 667; Jonaijian,
G8C<; Jonatlian. Jr (i71t; Levi, 669; I\lo-
sns, Jr. ()67; 31<)ses, 3d. 667; Iloherl,
690; Samuel, 610; Thaddeus, 667;
Thomas, 667.
Harris, Francis, 9, 79, 610; Roberl, 9;
William, ()5.5.
Harrison. I$enjamin, 710.
Harl, John De. 710.
Harllbrd, 151, llHi, 193.
Hariwell, Joseph, 610 ; Josiah. 610.
Harvard Colles^e, 302, 332-4,338, 347,382,
.510. .5:30. .551.
Hnrvcv, Josiah, 41-9
Harwich, 12, 81, 278,. 158.
Harvar.l, 14, 82, 177, 277, 336,351,429,
459, 628, 643,
Haskell, Francis, 241; Robert, 364, 368,
383.
Haskins, William, .546.
Hastings, Isanc, 6t)7 ; John, 275; Jona-
than, 221, 47t, .592, 664. 673-5, 678;
Samnel, 668; Simon. 281, ISO, «}4 ;
Steward, .521, .573 ; Walter, -t«).
Hatch. Nalpr,5IS; Capt.515; Snth,ll.
Hatfield. 10. 79, 177. 275, ,«., :W1. 458.
Haven, Davi.l. 610; Klias, 679; John,
277, 370 ; Joseph. 9, 274, 338, 610.
Haverhill, 8. 78, 152, 200, 222-3, 256, 260,
274,457.615.
Hawley. 10.
Hawlev, Joseph, 10, 16, 23. 36, .38. K), 4o,
50-l,"59.(;i 2,79, 8i. 101. 10<;. 141. 174,
2if>, 253. '258. 262, 266. 275. 317-18. .521,
324 5. ;W3. 310, 352 3,.3<16. :^568-70. 375-6,
389, 390 1. too. 4<>1., 418. 422. 421. 431,
'137, 415, k;o.2. Ui8, 170, 472-3,475, lUi.
Hawse. James, 14. 82.
Hay,.576,5!U. .536-8, 597.
Hay. James, (ilO.
Hayden, Samuel, 281.
Haynes, Joseph, 8, 615; Joshua, Jr. 678 ;
Josiah, 678 ; Samuel, 241., 593.
Havward. Jiimcs. t'ja ; Joiiah, 9, 79, 275,
471 ; I'hinehav 14
fliivwooil. Williiiiii, 752.
Il'^ird. Ricl,ard,9.
Il'-atli. 10
Headlev. Thomas Jr. 6ri7.
H.-.idi Wili-mi 7. Hi. 17. 19, 22-3, 29, 3*,
.v., 11-2, Ul. 51. 65, 67,72.77. 81,89,
'.H),<.Ki, m;, 107.210, .327. .^W, .'«9. Mi,
317, ;l.50, .363. .k;7. 370, 482, 503-9, 511-
515. 52H. 5;V;. .5/;3, .567, 605.
Hemenwav, Joshua. 610; Daniel, 277,
.352. U]Z, H;3, 14.7, 534, 679.
n<m|i, 63
Henderson, Hugh, 422.
Hen'lrirk, Joseph, 276.
Ill iirick, Israel. 5<)7.
H.nrv. Malcom, 80 ; Patrick. lU).
Henshaw, D.iniel, 637 ; Daniel, Jr. 4.32 ;
Joseph, 13. 52, 82,93,99. 109,1.39, 1 M".,
2.57, 263, 264, 296, 310. ;W7. .3;J8, .3.39,
ail, 512, 561, 623, 631, (i.38, (VIO, 641,
6 W3-17 ; Samuel, '225; William, 401.,
407, .529. .M>3, 628, 615, 647-49.
Herrick, Capt. 161. ir,6, 696.
Hcwcs. Joseph, 710.
Heywood, John, 610; Phinehas, 628, 631 ;
Capt. .517.
Hicks, Elizabeth, 537; Jonathan, 309, 315-
317, MJ5; John, 673
HIgginson, Stephen, 285.
Hildreih. William, 9.
Hill, Eliphalet, 565; John, 4.36; Ralph,
528, .550. 610; Thomas. 610.
Hinckley, Aaron, kj^i, 535; Richard, 311,
313.
Hingham, 7. 77. 273. 457. •l«6, .531. 5.35.
Hinman. Col. .372,710,715,717.721,722.
Hinsdale, Samuel, 79, 275, 364, S75
Hitchcock, Gad. 424.
Hoar. John, 671 , 672 ; Oliver, 610.
Hol.art. Isr.aei, 79, 251, 275, 37.5, 386, 419,
479; iNeheniiah, 610; Samuel, 161.
Hol.bv, Remington, 83. 98, 217,
Hodgkins, IMiilip, 475.
Holl.rook, Luke, 8; Naaman, 12.62,81,
141.
Hol.len. 14. 82, 177, 277, 336, 351. 429,
4511.628, 6i,3,
Ilolden. Abner. 14; Asa, 610; Benjamin,
14; William. 255,605.
Hog. Capt 218.
Hog Island, 545.
Holland, 10.
Holliston, 9, 79, 176. 275, 337, 458.
Holman, Jonathan, 21«, 628, 638. 649.
Holmes, John, 275 ; William, 81. 130, 141,
173, 255. 278, 286, 290, 298. 299. .3;32,
319, 3(30, 378, 381, 396. 105. 412. 419,
451, 431. 160. 463, 465, 467, 471 ; Wil-
liam. 132.
Holt. Joshua, 615.
Holien. S.imuel. 8. 16. 17, 29, .%1, .37, 42,
■Hi. 49. CO, 5.5, 61 , 62, 65, 77. 83. 84, 8«»,
105, 106, 139. 110, 1.59-162, 1(38, 185,
190-2. 197, 203, 208, 211, 218, 2S2. 23.J,
2.37, 2;58, 210, 211, 2H, 274, 279, 303,
321 , 362. 198, 569, 615. 618.
Homniis, John, 60.5.
Hiiiievwell, Zerubabel, 6.55.
Hooper, Robert, 3C, ; Stephen, 313, 380,
381 ; Thomas, 621 ; William, 740.
7G8
INDEX.
Hopkins, Daniol, 274, 281, 332, 334, 362,
364, 331, 382, 403, 411, 417, 418, 420,
447, 4G0, 4(;S ; Joseph, 25i; Miirk, 141 ;
Mr. 6.52; Sieplien, 13.3, 162, 163, 16."),
16(;, 167, I6y, 739
Hopkintoii, 9, 79, 176, 201, 202, 236, 240,
273, 2.S4, 286, 293, 306, 337, 352, 457.
Horiismillis, 64.
Horses, 495, 496, 570, 573, 376, 593, 597.
Hosiery, Domesiic, 64.
Hospitals, 355, 357, 360, 361, 373, 378,
387,406,436,437,571,578.
Hosiner, Abiier, 678 ; John. 667; Slepheii,
672, 673; William, 671, 672.
Houghton, Ezra, 637 638.
Hovey, John, 81, 206, 216, 279, 313, 411 ;
Joseph, 615.
How, Edward, 252, 551, 553; Ezekicl,
609; Jcliabod, 83. 223; Doci .566, 567.
Howard, James, 141 ; Lemuel, 425.
Howe, Cyprian, 575 ; Jonas, 82, 159 ;
Samuel, 11, 80. 94, 178, 187, 201.
Howell, Joseph, 490.
Hubbard, Israel, 10, 275, 390 ; Jonas, 214 ;
Philip, 298.
Hubbardsion, 14, 82, 177, 277, 33(], 331,
429, 459, 643.
Hubbart, Mr. 161.
Hull, 7, 8, 77, 'i37, 483, 485, 486.
Humphrey, James, 533.
Humphreys, Charles, 7-40.
Huni, Ebenezer, Jr. 619, 621 ; Jeremiah,
16, 14(5, John, .360, 387; Joseph, 449;
William, 487, 59-3.
Huse, John, 436.
Hussey, James, 610; Stephen, 141, 150.
Hutchmson, 13, 82, 177, 277, 336, 331, 429,
4431,64:5.
Hutchinson, Foster, 36, 61,113; Georg'e,
675; Thomas, 13, 224, 225, 2.32, 249,
306. 44.5, 527, 532, 360, 383, 743 ; Thom-
as, Jr. .36.
Hyde, Caleb, 141,276.
llsey, Enoch, 655.
Impost Master, 2.36, 250, 260.
Imports, 61, 66,111.
Impressmenl, 150, 358.
Indies, Henderson, .526.
Indians, 131, 218, 307, 383,548; Canadi
an, 707, 715, 716, 725, 752 ; Cagnawan
ga, 372; Falmouth, 477; IVIohawk, 116
118, 119; Penobscot, 217, 225,226,228
356, 360, 362, 369, .370, 371 , 372, 38 1 , 382
386, 391, 392, 477, 480, 552; Six Na-
tions, 311, .322, 335; Si. Francois. 394
Siockbridge, 1 14, 115, 226, 311, 312,453]
Indigo, .57.
Ingalls, James, 8, 274, 431.
Ing!is, Moses, 621.
Lrirrnhain, Duncan, 221, 664, 671, 672, 673,
674, 1)75, 677; John, 591.
Innkeepers, .5.55, 649.
Insperlion. ('ommitteos of. .58.
Intercepted Letters. 2'.»;!, 682, 683, 684.
Ipswich, 8, 78, 222, 223, 274, 411, 412, 457,
615.
Ireland, 373.
Ireland, Thomas, 367.
lron,(;3, .573.
Irving, Tlionias, 44'!..
Islands, 315, .554.
Jacksoi), Giles, 15, 276.
Jacobs, Henry, 678.
Jamaica Fish; .362, 363, 382, 421, 449.
Jaquiih, Beiijrtinin, 610.
Jay, John, 739, 741. ^
Jenkins, Tlionias, 5-46.
Jennison, Samuel, 14, 82, 221, 228, 623,
631, 633, 638, 639; William, 82.
Jericho, 459.
Jewett, Al)el, 9, 79, 275; Dummer, 274,
280, 285, 292, 305, 310, 332, 334, 368,
382, 443, 431, 452, 453, 4Jjl, 484, 495.
Johnson, Edward, 274, 313, 317, 411, 446,
467, 487; Guy, 322, .335; Josiah, 221,
274, 290, 341, 410, 423, 446, 460, 474,
493, 663, 665, 666, 668, 669, 670, 671,
676; Doct. 532; Samuel, 180; Thomas,
740, 741.
Johnston, Setb. 595.
Jones, David, 11,278, 282, 291, 341, 355,
368. '145, 447, 449, 460, 621,622 ; Ebeno-
zer,80, 129; Ephraim,523 ; Ichabod,393,
396, 399 ; Isaac, 649, 630 ; Joseph, 575 ;
Josiah, 309, 313, 316, 317, 405 ; Nathan-
iel, 655, 656; Stephen, 396; Thomas,
672, 673.
Jordan, Clement, 655 ; Rushworlh, 436.
Journal of Congress, H4.
Judges of the Court of Inquiry, 262, 263.
Justice, Administration of, 262, 729. See
Courts
Justices, 602, 612.
Keith, Zephaniah, 12, 28, 29, 72.
Kellogg, Russell, 79 ; Samuel, 83, 276.
Kendail, Edward, 610; Ezra, 275, 374;
Paul, 494.
Kennebeck, 300.
Kennehunk, 222, 223.
Kennehunk I'orl, 12.
Ketlell, James, 610.
Keyes, Daiiforth. 248.
Kimball, Geoige, 14; Nathaniel, 223.
King, Benjamin, 12, 81, 279, 479; Henry,
13, 82, 276, 3.50, 421 , 628, 631.
Kingman, Samuel, 535.
Kingsbury, Eleazer, 8, 77, 160, 252, 679.
Kingston, 11,80, 103, 104, 278, 401, 4.58,
513,621.
Kinnyni, Mr. 679.
Kinsey. James, 740.
Kirkland, Rev Mr. 116, 118.
Kirkwood, James, 343, 374, 378, 386.
Kiiterv, 12. 81, 279, 291, 411, 438.
Killre'dge, Francis, 374; Isaac, 286; Thom-
as, 41.9 ; John, 572 ; Doct. 319.
Kniuhl, Enos, 6i5.
Knowles, Amos, 278, 280.
Kiio.x, Williani, 275.
Kollock, Lemuel, 7, 77, 159, 178, 192, 2.34,
2.36, 238, 251, 254, 261, 273, 317, 327,
.3.53, 3.58, 430, 431, <134, 436, 445, 432,
453, 467, 479, 480, 481, 490, 493, 495,
499, 383.
Lake George. 269, 270, 288, 709, 711, 712,
717,721.
Laininans, James, 346.
Laininon, Moses, 484.
Lancaster, 13. 82, 177, 236, 276, 336, 331,
429, 431 , 1,58, 316, 517, 318, 628, 643.
Lane, Ebenezer, 12, .575 ; Job, 678; John,
223, 226, 228, 336, 360, 362, 370, 371,
378, 381, .382, 385, 386, 391, 394, 477,
480, 481, 332.
INDEX.
'm
Laneshorousrh, 15, 8.S, 142. 177, 1,59.
Liin!,'.i.>ii, K.v Siiiiiuoi. *,'i , 'i-jo, '279, eno,
2JU, M>, ;i.u, ;{.;«, ;{i;i. ;i8l, .JIJ-J, 383,
3:!(i, 3:m, mi, sri, .')(ii ; Tdnoiiiv, (i'2,
in, Jll, ^Jl.5, M?;!. .»;■:!, 377. 37ft. 3«1,
;J83. 3>.)J. 11.'. kM). KU. kij. III. H7,
1-u;, i(;i. k;?
Liiiisin;,', I'eicr, 711.
LfiriiiiT, I'fler, .5(10.
Larrnbcc, Naihnnicl. Jlfi. 535.
Lnurii', t^ipi. (liJO. (il!!.
L;iwri'nrj', Asii. i><'>,5. .■>7U.
Lca.l Bills, 510. 7.'j(;.
Leariic.l, Elieiivz.T. 13, n'2. 181, 2W. 270,
5.5J. .5(;3. (rJS ; Willi.iiii, .272, 190. 493.
Lel.aiioii, 1'2. 149, k")8.
Lochnu-re. Kiclmrcl, .X;. (51, 113.
Lee, Cliarlcs, 39!J. UW. 418. 4i^;, 4K), 4H,
4<iO. W,\. 16H, U:i, 182,433; Jeremiah,
8, 17, 19, i?, 2.'{, 2[), M, 35. .37. Ui, .50, <! I ,
78, !!4, 224. 223. oOo~ii. 512. 513, 515,
5I(>, (115. ('.18; John. Wi.ClJ; Jniiaitiaii,
30(i; Jo>epli, 3»). (il3; Mr. IWI; Capl.
377; Ilicliard Iloiiiy,710, 741 ; William,
171.
Legale, Thomas 14, '2.5, 95, 9fi. 231. '23'2.
Leicester, 13,82, 177. 25G, 277, 336, 351,
429, 431, 458, 509', 512, 514, 51G, 517,
518, (;28, t;4^3.
Leiaiiil, Joiiaihaii, 9 ; Capl. 584.
Leiio.v. 15. 83, 177, 27(j, 4,59.
Leominster, 14, 82, 177, 277, 336, 351, 429,
4,59, (;k3.
Leoiiar<l, Daniel, 36, fil, 113; Eliphalet,
12, 81 • George, 3(), 37, 40 5 Zephaiiiah,
62(;,
Lethriflge, Samuel, 77.
Leiiiinvfll. Kl sha. 5()l
Levcreit. 10, 11, 177, 276. 458.
Lewis, J..hi4, 15, 62, 14i, 184, 20G, 215,
220. 655, 656.
Lexiiigion, 9. 78, 274, 4.57.
1 B.utie of, 148, 150, 154, 155, 160,
192, 194., 196. 2i)l, 209, 211, 212, 220,
221, 22 J-, iJl, 3^15, '152, 519, 524, 596,
572, 661-694.
Leydeii, 10.
Licenses, Spirit, 475
Light Houses. '2.51, 141. 412. 454.
Lighilv. William, 485. 487, 488, 490.
Linc(.rii, 10. 79, 177. 275. 458.
Liiirolii. Couiiiv of, 15. 62, 72, S3. 141, 150,
214. 279,383; .'590,412, 413. 4)6. 459. 7.55.
Lincoln. Benjamin, 4, 6, 7, 1.5, 16, 33, 77,
84, 1.50. 198. 199. 216, 2'20. 215, '246, '273,
279. 280. 370, 375. 391. 394, 401, 408,
414. 4;54. 1 41. 417. 181. 489. 493, 494,
501.50.5 — 513,515. 516,573; Isaac, 7.
Lin/ev, ('apt 4:^1, 75.3, 754, 755.
Liih-ow. Col. 293.
Little. BarnaSas. II. 80. 163, 621 ; Moses.
292, 295, 327. 338, 339, 101, 564, 577,
585, 586. 587.615.
Liltlefielcl. James, 132.
Lilileion. 9, 79, 176, 256, 275, 337. 352,
457, .573.
Live .Stock, 5-15.
Livingston. Peter V. B. .373,708, 711,7'24;
Philip. 740; William 7 M).
Lock, Benjamin, filw ; Reulien, 667.
Locke, James. 610 ; Jonathan, 9, 610 ;
Cnpt. 374.
97
Lock wood, Jamei, .T73.
Lc.nil.ar.l. .S„|.,i„<„,. |5, '27, Ml, CM, 656.
Lnii.Inn, .52, 161, 171, 41-1, 455, Wl, 7H-8.
Long Maii.l, KW, 497.
Lon^Cellow, Jonas, ;103 ; Sirphen, 655,
CM.
Longley, Naihaniel, 6 W, 6.50.
LoiJ's Day. 3^12, .371. 378, .569.
Loriiig, J(ii>i-ph, I7H, (iJO, 68<i ; Joseph. Jr.
178; Jonathan. 61)2. <',(;3; Joshua, 3*;, 61,
113,378; Jolhain, 2.1. .T70.
Loihrop. Laar. 11. I9. 52, 62. 80.84,91,
105, 109, 17.1, 178. 185, 198. 201, 206,
211, 22.5, 228, 278, 3(J3, 326, 3:M), 3;)3,
347, a53, -.m, 370, ;r73, 377, 3«6, 392,
393, 10-2, 111. 419. 42.3, 431, 4U, 445,
•1,52, 4,51., 4)6, liiO; .Si)lomon, 493, 495;
Thomas. 621 , 622, C,':lo.
Lovetl, Benjamin, 615.
Low, Isaac. 7.39 ; John, 615; Major, 249.
Loyalists, t.8, 214. 219.
Lucas, Samuel. 11,80, 622.
Luckus, Hiciiard, :VH].
Ludlow. 10. !;(). 177,276,458.
Lumlv. .Mr. 726
Luncntnirg, 14, 82, 177, 25Ci, ITl, 30G, 336,
351 , 429, 459, 497, 628, CA3
Lyman, Elias, 10, 79, 275, 318.
Lvnch. Thomas, 7'29, 740.
Lynn, 8. 78, 135, 274, 411, 412, 457, bio,
615. 679.
Lyon, James. 396. 435. 1,>1..
ftlaccariv, Thaddeus, ti4(i. 649.
Machias", 303. 301, 305, 306, 392, .395, .396,
399,405,411, 415, 435, 454, 499,600, 596.
Madder, 64.
ftl.idcira Wine. 57.
Maine, 4.35, 451..
Major Generals. 306, 310, 3'24, 326, 333,
360, 363, 367, 369, 370.
Majahigwaduce, .377.
Magazines, PuMic. 93. 427, 431, 513, 583.
Makepeace. Gcrshom, 14
Maiden, 9, 78. 135, 274, 381, 382, 457, 520,
522, 5'23. 545.
Mallows, Samuel, 206.
Manchester, 8, 78, 179, 274, 313, 411, 412,
457,561.615.
Mandamus Counsellors, 24, 25. 36, 37, 50,
52,55,61. 68,94, 96, 111, 112, 113, 116,
236, '249, 603, 613, (523. (i40
Mandell. Paul. 14, 67, 82, 190, 201, 21'2,
6'28. 6.35. 638.
Manning. Richard. 77, 91 . 1 13, 615
Mansfi.hl, 12. 81. 177. 278. 458. 6'26 ; Dan-
iel, 615 ; John, 8, 62, 78, 102, 270, 304,
553, 5(.3. 59-1. 615
Manufactures, 52. 59, 61, 62, 63. 64. G5,
100, 103, 6(M. 6.59.
MarMe. John. 610.
Marl.lchead.8. 66. 78. 149 152. 158, 171.
2.5(i. '271. -285. .'363. 411. 412.- 457, 477,
521, 531, ;562.573. .594. 615. 618.
March, Jonathan. .516 ; Samuel, 15.62.72,
83, 554, .5() 1, 5()5.
Marcv, Jodediah,6,38; Mr. 113; William,
678.
Marll.orough. 9,73, 135. 176. 216. 256,274.
318. 325. ;J;57. 352, 398, 457, 522.
-Marr. Jairfs, 675.
.Mar.shall. Ebenezer. 610.
Marshliekl, 1 1, SO, 93, 103-5. 278, 458, 621.
770
INDEX.
Martin, Josiah, 5io ; Governor, 745.
Maryland, 733, 7W,7i7.
Wass<lc!lu~ell^ Uav. 17, 23. 31, 2G5, 2G8,
269, 727, 733, 739. 7oj.
Address lu Inhabitants, 69, 72, 91,
-Zoo
RIassachuseits Spy, 4-. G2. 131, 172, 173.
Mason, David, 373, 520, 5G9 ; John, 13, 82,
C28, G88: Tliad.leus,221,07G ; Thomas,
SG2.
Masiers, Andrew, 615.
Mairosses, 200, 220, olG, 550.
Waithews ls;iac, 703 j Jabez, 217, 227,
425,431,436.
Maxwell, Huirh, 11.
Mav, Ezia, 80.
Mayl..;w, Joseph. 13, 62, 72, 141, 144, 150.
MayiianI, Hczekiah, (.10; .lohii. 609} Ste-
nlie.i, 1 1, 82. 277. 290, 3o0, 623.
McClary, M;ijor, SGG
McCohb, Samuel. 83, 192, 197, 206,215,
^220, 279, 324, 576.
McCoy, Capi.715, 716.
McDanit'l, Timoihy, 141, 655, 655.
]Mcl)<iu-al, Ale-xander, G95.
AlfCjt'e, 'J'homas, 11.
Mdnlosh, William, 273.
McKinster, Capi. 400, 401.
McKi>son, John, 711.
McLaue, Capi. 5(j0.
McLean, Hugh, 228, 229.
McLellan, Joseph, 215.
Meachani, tlUeuezer, 11.
Jlead, Levi, 669; Alailhew, 633.
Meads, Aimer, 6i)8.
Medfield, 7, 77, 256, 273, 352. 457.
Aledtord. 9, 79, 275, 457, 493, 525, 528,
51.5, 545. 517, 574, 679.
Medical Commissary, 446, 448, 450, 530,
545.
Medical Stores, 323, 489, 506, 509, 512,
517 515
Medlcines,"321, 323, 489, 597.
Medumcoiik, 459.
Medway, 8, 77, 176, 256, 273, 337, 352, 457.
Melleu, Daniel, 610; James, 9: Thomas,
9, 610.
Mellicaut, Mr. 551, 512.
Mel via, Ephraim,672, 673.
Meudou, 13, 82, 177, 2.56, 276, 336, 351,
429, 431,436, 4.)8,516, 517, 518, 623, 643.
Menniomy, 515, 571.
Menotoiny River, 542.
IMensh, J.'SKJ,
Merriaui, I'.enjamin, 688; Nathan, 610;
Silas, 615.
Merrd, .Abijali, 466. 467 ; John, 83.
Merri;l, Isaac, 8, 78 ; Winlhrop, 615.
Mcicair. Stephen, 77.
Melhucn. 8, 78, 274. 457, 615.
Mid<llel.orough. 11,80,256,278, 337, 352,
458,621.
Middlesp.x County, 8, 23, 62, 78, 140, 176,
256, 274, 3;37, 352. 353, 457. 459. 479,
5»9, t;09-6l4. 727, 75;-).
Middlei a, 8, 78, 274, 457,615.
MiddletoK. Henry. 740.
Miftlln, Thomas, '725, 740.
Mishil. Nathaniel, 8, 78, 274, 386, 416, 417.
615.
Militia. &!, 93, 99, 109, I3C, 202, 493. 512,
569,571.
Militia Arms and Equipments, 34, 48,71,
99. 103,209.210.
Discipluie. 34. 48, 71, 103, 146.
CnllM.s out, 90, 112,202,240,241,
498, 510, 572, 748.
Organization, 33, 34, 47, 152, 243,
414, 52a, 522.
. Officers, 33, 47, 72, 90, 167, 168,
377.414,521,377.
Military E.\ercise, 34, 41, 43, 50, 67,71.74.
Miles, "Charles, 679
Miller, Charles, 542; Jacob, 584; James.
(578 ; John, Gil
Mills, Amos, 679; Benjamin, 80, 191, 192,
197, 201 ; Elivha, G79.
Mills & Hicks' Newspaper. 650.
Milton. 7, 77, 94, 135, 273. 322, 445, 457,
540, 535, (jOI
Ministers, 158, 250, 281, 283, 284. See
Clerjrtjmen
M not, Jonathan, 610; Timoihy, Jr. 5i9,
674
Minute Men, 137, 140 See MiliHa.
Milchel, David, 279, 655, 656 ; Jonathan,
G55.
Mitchell. Edward, 11, 80, 141, 217, 278,
313, 321, 358, 412, 423, 4^31, 434, 436,
444, 445, 463, 465, 466, 469, 483. 511,
512, 514,' 621 ; Nathan, 621.
Mohawk liidiaii>, 116,113, 119.
Moiieakounuck Indians, 311. 312.
Molasses, 57, 417, 4S5, 487, 736.
Molleneaux, William, 432.
ftloncrief, Lieut. 726.
Moneys, Public, 19, 33, 39, 45, 46, 65, 66,
113, 114, 146 See Bills of Credit.
Monitors, 84, 150, 165, 233, 282.
Alonson, 10, 11, 5jO, 177, 275, 337, 351, 430,
458.
Montague, 10, 80. 177,275, 337, 351, 430,
458.
Montgomery-, 10.
Montieal, 51, 59, 372, 751.
Moor, Maliicw.500.
Moore, John, 610; Willard, 644, 646, 647,
1.50; Major, 366.
More, Francis. 403, 410.
INlorils, Edward, 223.
.Alorse, Moses, 276.
Mortars, 507. 508. See Ordirince.
Morion, Brianl, 83, 279, 300, 350, 352,
374, 501 , 655; John, 740 ; Thomas, 444,
415,419.
Moseley, John, 10. 79, 141. 172. 199, 201,
204, 206, 275 488, 495, 499.
Mosniaii, James, 9
Moth. kin, Jehockakin, 115.
Molt, Edward, 233, 696, 697, 698, 712.
Moulion, Thi-.mas, 1)55.
l\lonniii)g Ap, arel. 737.
JMowat, Henry, 217. 218, 219. 237, 397,402.
Mulliken, Lydia, 178,693; Nathaniel, 567,
667.
Monroe, Renjamin, 671, 672 : Ebnezer, Jr.
679; James, 573, 59-5; Jedediah, 679;
John, Jr, 668, (.69; Marieit,693; Rob-
ert, (>79; Timothy, 679; William, 693,
694; William, 3d' 668.
Murray, Daniel, 463, 465; John, 36, 61,
113,"(i39, 640; Rev. John, 129, 139, 144,
147, 149, 150, 158, 160, 162, 169, 170, 1T2,
178. 203, 431 ; Samuel, 166.
INDKX.
7/1
M.irrayfiel.1, 10, 11, !10. 177,337, 430, 5m.
MuMor Mislcrs. I'M), \[)\, l"J7. \W, 'JO'i,
iOt, JlW, '2kj, ilJt, '2i;o, jJO, .Wl, u5ii.
Mii/.zv, AiiKis. G'.l.J ; l.iiiac, (JVJ ; Joliii,
liii»; William, •J77.
Nnil-, (•>,}.
Naiiiiickct, 1.1. See Shiibiinic.
Naiitiickoi ('..iiiiiy, l:i. f!l. I H, \M, Ti'J,
lo;!. kVJ. 170, 7. '7. ■.■).■>. 7 ji").
Naiiiu(k»-i M.md. ;{|.l. ;il I, ■in, no.
Narrag^aiigiis, Id.). HI!. Uo.
Na>li. Daniel. 10; .Sliylieii, JIJ.
Nasoii, Kdlicit, -li.
Naiii-k,'J.7;i. I7t;, 'J.j2. kSfl.
Naiisliaii Maiul, 3'J2, 7j3.
Naval Sniros, .>K>.
Nazro, .Nhlhiin ei.SJn.
Neat, 'n.omas, 4;{0, k31.
Nredh.mi. 8. 77. '27.1. 4o7, 5J0, G79.
Nelson, Nalhaniel, (J .'8.
Nesl.il, Licul Co". 132, 1.33.
New |{o^l()ll, 4o9.
New Braiiiiioe. ll, 8?, 1'27, 277, 33i;, 351,
421). 43l.4oll,Gr>
Newluirv, 8, 78, i^oG, :271-, HI, 412, 45.7,
573, r,"l5.
Newl.Mrvp(.ri.8,78. 148. 158,222,223,25(5,
27t, 281, 377, 337, 411, 412, 4o7, 520,
GI5.
Newcastle, 15, 83. 21G, 439; Province of.
(Delaware,) 733.710.
Newell, Aiuln-w. i.\2, .').') 2 ; Timoiliv, 432.
NewlouiullaiKl. 313, 470.
New Gloui-esler, -lo'.K G.ij.
Newhall. Capl G W. G50 ; Mr. 515.
New Hainpsliire. 135, 1,)(), 137, l.?o, 148,
14;). Ibl, 1 1;2, 224.22)5, 231, SCO, 2G5,2G8,
2G9. 270, 2:!l, 28!!, 289, .30(). 307. 308,
352, .J87. .399. 419, 414, 417, 4G0, 4(i.J,
471. 521,522. 70'".. 739.741.
New Ji-r>ev, 707, 733. 710.
New Marlboroiiffh, 15, 83, 177, 459.
Newpori, l(i!', 170.
New I'rovidiMice, III, 142.
New Salem, 10. 11, 80, 177,276, 337, 351,
4;30, 453.
Newspapers. 414. 445. 115. 471, 49i;.G50.
Newion, 9. 78, 1.5.X 271, 457, 510, 37G,G79.
New York. Ciiv. 72G ; Province of. Ifil,
171, 21(;, 25!i, 2G3, 2G5, 2G9, 270. .308.
Cmj. 372. 373. 4<;0, 52-5, 5.J7, 518, G95,
705, 708, 711. 723, 724, 725, 72G, 733,
739. 710, 744. 747
Nichols. Israel. 14.82.231, 277, 291, 303,
.3(;4. 374, 420. 421, 428, 4G3, 471, 479.
483, 484 ; John, G79 ; Thomas, 252, 34^1.,
553.
Nicholson. Col 281.
Niniham, Abraham, 4 IG, US.
Nitre, 299.
Nixon, Col. John. 294, 295, 299. SCI, .5G2,
')i',r>. 5G7.
Nol>le. .rainos, 4<5I, 488. 490, 491, 493. 495,
718.
Noil.llc's Island, 292. 545. 557.
Noii-Ci.nsunipiion, 25. 27. «), 60 54, 5G, .57,
58. (iG, G04, G48. G53. (.51, 735-9.
Noii-Iniporiatioii. 50, 38, 6G, 604, 648, G53,
Go'.K 7.3.5-9.
Norfolk C.iintv. 7 ; Exercise. 50, 639. 646.
Norridgework', 232, 2;35.
Norris, Edward, 223.
North, Joseph, 83, 279, 290, 332; Lrr.l,
7 15, 7 IG.
North ("ntolino, 73.3, 740, IWt.
North Yar uih, 15, 8.1, 279, 41d, 436, 459,
(.55.
Northam(>lon, 10, 79, 177, 275, 336, 351,
k)8, 1,19.
Norilii.orough. 14, 82, 177, 277, 336, 351,
429 4,!l.4.V.l..V)2. G13
Northl.rid^e, 14. 177, .-151,429, 613
Noiihlield, 10. II, 80. 1.19, 177, iia, 5{75,
Xil, ;15I, 117, 4,10, J38.
Norion, 12, HI, 177,278,458,626.
Nnnon, Mcriuh, 141, 279, 3<>3; Samuel,
432.
Norwich. II.
Notes, Colony Sen fiilh n/ Credit.
Nova Srolla, 313, 10.5. 41G.
Noyes, Daniel, 3, ;}.'!0, G13.
Number Four, 10,5, ki5.
.\ursc, WMIiam. .500.
Niiltiiis:, John, 577,
Nve, Eli-ha, 753. 755; Jii<ie))h, .Id S23,
"278; N.iihan.(521; .Sfphen, 12. G2, 1 11,
278, 291. 293, 374, 380, 381, 397, 407,
412, 423, 1,31.
Oakes, ."^ylvanu?!, 587,
Oakham. II, .2, 177, 277,336, 351,429,
4:51, k38. iVU.
Oaths, 129, 179. 193, 201, 202, 23.3, 378.
Obrian. Jcr<miah, 396, 399, 433; John,
411, H5.
Onicers. 33, 35. 65,72, 90, 123, 124, 127, 128,
143, 150, IGO, 163, 167, 168, 175, 199,
206, 211, 2.32 233. 212, 253, 255, 258,
327, 3.53, 3.38, 33'J, 373, .376, 377, 379, .397,
414, 41.5. ki7, 472. 473, 52.3, 5U , 581 , 726 ;
Oown UUicersi, 166,463,476, 543, 389,
730.
Oil, 63, 251.
Oliver, Andrew, 36; Daniel, 6,37; Lt.Gov.
2-18; Peter, M. 61. 113. 6.53; Robert,
576; Thomas, 36, 553 ; William, 401.
Oraiig'e, 10.
Orlnaiice. 28, 29, 30, 91, 95, 110, 171, 210,
219, 2.Xt, '2.59, 265, 550.
Stores, 29, 30, 171, 259, 356, 307,
719. 720.
.Store Keepers. .301. 356, 519.
Orijan. Thomas, 590, 595, 596, 39/.
Ori.e, A/.or, 8. 19. 20. 23, '28, 29, 34.35,.52,
61.62. 66, (57,78. 81, 89, 149. 152, 1.53,
liiO. 233, 2U). 211. 27 k 282. .305, 306,
^U. 193, 505-13. 515. 526, .527, 529, MO,
.>k3. 550. 351. .567. 575, .581, 395, 613;
Joshua,274, 3k5. ;m. 615
Osgood. Samu.'l, Jf 78. 108, 111, 113, 117.
135. 1.5.;. no. .580. til 5.
Oswald, ("apt 701.
Otis. Junes. ;5(;. 37. 10; Joseph. 278, 281,
21K), 299. .500, 303. ;505, 317, .>2i:. 3.52,
.333, 338, 3-M, .33:5, a57, 3'.»2, 395, 411,
479.
Oxford, 13, 82. 177, 2.56, 276, .336,351.429.
431,4,58,628,(543.
Oxford (^llllllv. 12
Para, William. 740.
Paddock. Major, 511.
Padlcfor.l. Mr, tKJl.
Vnzo. Wllli.im.277. 3n0. 331. .352. 452, 4,53.
^;i,6WI,650; William. Jr. 11. RO. .532.
Paine, Robcrl Tienl. 12. 49. 35, 37, 81 8-1,
INDEX
8C, 95, 96, 97. 101, 103, 109, 170, 185, 278,
739; Rev Mr (iU) ; Samuel, 212, 214,
639, 641 ; Timothy, 3G, 637, 638 ; Wil-
liam, 634.
Palfrey, Mr 419,420
Palmer, 10, 11, 30, 177. 276. 337, 331, 430,
438.
Palmer, George, 711; Joseph. 7, 19, 20,
23, 27, 28, 29, .35, 'JO, 52, 61 , (.2, 77, 84, 89,
95, 101, 106, 107, 144, 149, 152, 191, 238,
240, 241, 246, 273, 281. 293, 330, 3.52,
36'2, 4;53, 434, 460, 486, 490, 498, 505 8,
612-15, 626, 327, 529, 5 iO, 338, 540, 545,
650, 551, 555, 5.56, 368. 573, 375, 38.3.
601,604,605; Joseph Pierce, 3.32, 530,
536,396; 'I'homas, 36.
Paneles, 37, 736.
Paper, 64, 94, 228, 369, 349, 631. ,
Pardra, John, 300.
Park, Samuel, 284, 610.
Parker, Andrew, 628; Asa, 678; Daniel,
449; Ebenezer, 667; John, 664, 665,
667, 668, (;70; John, 300; Jonas! 668;
Jonas, 679 ; Jonaihan, 679 ; Joseph, 610 ;
Joshua, 378; Oliver, 378; 'I'lmdlhy, 14,
82, 187, 231, 277, 292, 300, 303, 332, 337,
366, 378, 382, 393. 401, 405, 417, 446,
451,452,462,484,489
Paikhursl, Joel, 275; Nathaniel, 668.
Parks, Elisha, 10,79, 275, 305, 317, 321,
355, 356, 358, 374; Isaac, 671.
Parliament, Acts of, 38, 602, 603, 610, 611,
612,616, 619, 623, 626, 630, (552, 72^»,
732, 734, 735, 73(i, 739.
Parry, Edward, 203, 214, 386, 397, 402;
Mr. 3.32, 373.
Parsons, Isaac, 655, 656 ; Samuel H. 2.39 ;
Solomon, 615; Solomon. Jr. 530; Tim-
othy. 436 ; Capt. 209. 680, 681.
Partridge, George, 11, 62, 80, 83, 160, 173,
178, 185, 191, 193, 193, 199, 201, 203,
278, 283, 286, 291, 298, 300, 309, 315,
323, 326, 337, 340, 399, 403, 404, 411,
416, 417, 419, 420, 445, 446, 432, 453,
456, 479, 621, 622.
Parlridgefield, 15, 83, 459.
Pass to and from Boston, 175, 197, 529.
Patch, Samuel, .375, 574; John, 3d. 615.
Patten, Nathaniel, 25k
Patterson, John, 13, 29, 83, 94, 96, 98, 99,
106, 114, 113, 116, 118, 141, 130, 204,
270, 296, 361, 400, 401, 358, .563, 564,
382
Paulet River, 717.
Paxtnn, 13, 82, 177, 277, 313, 314. 3.36, 351,
429,431,458,628,643.
Paxion, Charles, 31<j.
Peck, John, 221.
Peddlers, 101, 102.
Pierce, Benjamin, 679; Nathan, 672 ; Sol-
omon, 1)()8, (;79
Peliwmi, 10, 80, 177, .337, 351, 430, 458.
l'<-inlir..ke, 11,80, 103, 104, 278, 458, 621.
rendleloii, Edward, 729. 740.
Penn, Governor, li'}, 746, 747.
Pennsylvania, 753, TIO.
Penniinan, James. 535.
Peiiohscoi,374, 377. 435
Indians, 217. 3,36. 360, 362, 369,
371,392,477,480,481.552
Peppcr.'ll, 9, 79, 176, 275, .337, 3.52, 457.
Pepperell, William, 3li, 61, 113.
Peppcrelboroug'h, 12, 81, 458.
Perham, Lemuel. 610; Samuel, 9.
Perkins, Ephiaim, .309; Richard, 11, 62,
80, 133, 136, 156, 192, 212, 215, 2'10,261,
306.
Perlpv, Asa, 78, 212, 274, 283, 342. 360,
363', 411, 416, 467, 479, 615; Thomas,
615.
Perry, Ahel, 610; Aimer, 9, 79, 275, 358,
471, 493; Daniel, 273; Ephraim, 335;
Jacob, 575; Mr. 139.
Percy, Karl, 178,662,681.
Pcrsoiiiown, 83, 459.
Peru, 15.
Peters, Rev. Samuel, 21, 22.
Petersham, 14. 82. 177, 277. 356, 351, 429.
459, 628, 643.
Pettingil, Benjamin, 278.
I'etly Chapmen, 101, 102.
Phelps, Elijah, 703 ; Elisha, 281, 290, 293,
310. 315, 406, 719 ; Noah, 696, 698.
Philadelphia, 463
Phillips, Bridget, 378, 387 ; Samuel, 36,37,
40, 274, 288, 296, 297, .332, 334, 366,370,
381, 382, 399, 401. 418, 420, 427, 441,
467, 479, 481 , 483, 486, 490, 493, 495,
498, 500; William, 36
Phinney, Edmund, 3.55, 336, 353, 368, 375,
378, 379, 383, 386, 390, 413, .554, 564,
565, 655
Phipps, Aaron, 610; Col 548.
Pickering, John, Jr. 8, 19, 20, 25, 52, 36,
65,66,67,77.84,93.95,105,208.211,274,
297, 308, 326, 333, 361, 362, 370, 373,
374, 375, 376, 377, 391. 392, .397, 404,
411, 437, 44.2, 445, 446, 476. 481, 486,
615, 618; Capt. Timothy, 67, 74, 285,
615.
Pierce, Abijah, 10, 610; Benjamin, 610 ;
Isaac, 572; Josiah, 10,201.
Pigeon, John, 9, 48, 52, 67, 89, 238, 240,
241, 242, 361, 362, 410, 417, 505, 506,
.507, 509-16, 518, 520, 576, 577.
Pillsliury, Caleb, 274, 361, 615.
Pimento, 57, 736.
Pills. James, .36, 40 ; John, 77, 84, 89, 102,
103, 140, 221, 224, 228, 232, 273, 280,
308, 370, 444, 447, 456.
Pittsfield, 13, 83, 177, 459, 491.
Piitsion, 15.
Pitcairn, Maj.680,681.
Plimpton, Thomas, 9. 78, 274. 317. 347,
348, 380, 381, 423, 450, 480. 516. 609.
Plymouth, 11, 80, 103, 104,223,278,400,
401, 402, 423, 433, 44.2, 458, 513, 660,
621.
County, 7, 23, 62, 72, 141, 150, 177,
3.37, 352, 353, 376, 411, 412, 438, 459,
479, 621 5, -55.
Plymplon, 11, 80, 278, 458, 621, 622.
Pollaid, Solomon. 610.
Polly, William, 679.
Pomeroy, Seth, 10, 19, 20, 22, 29, 35, 51,
52, 59, 67, 72, 79, 90, 94, 117, 130, 139,
141, U4, 150.
Pond, Joseph, 178.
Pool, Samuel, 573; Mark, 3'10.
Poor, Thomas, .309.
Poor. See Huston. Charlestoum.
Population of Massachusetts, 61, 755.
Port Bill, 52, 54, 59, 95
Porter, Elisha, 141, 191, 275, 292, 299, 300
INDEX.
•:73
sat, 305, 309. SI.*), 390, S'H, 395, .197,
'100, 40-1. 48.2. 4;;(i. 'W.l, 49;», 49.'>, 49i:,
61(), .>!}!, oCJ ; 'IMir. lil J ; Capl. 400, 401 .
roil.Miiouili, N H" 'J()3, '.'(iO, lii.
I'osi;.;;.', iJlJ, 2'J3, 47 1 , 47'J.
I'osi MiiM.rs, 223. 23(i. 474, 51>2.
Pom OIVkcs. !20R, 'J09, 212,219,220,222,
2'J3; 224. 2()0, Ml.
Posl Ki«iiTs. 201t. '.'09. 219,220,221,222,
224. 2;i(:. 2iiO, 526, 5-«J.
PoU', Cjipi ..'19.
Poller. William. 167.
Powell, Jeremiah, 36, 37, 40, (168; Wil-
liam, 149. jor..
Powiial. Fori, 22c.
PownaUhorough. 15, 83, 210, 211, 21C,
279, 399, 4;56. 459.
Prcl)!.-, Jeilediah, ST). 36, 37, 40, fi2, 90,
217, 218, 219, 237, 355, -.ibC,. ;«".0, 390,
392, 43(;. 477, 480, 501, 522, 56-1, 5(;4,
5(i5, G.38-, John, 22r>.
Prescoti, At.el, Jr. (179; James. 9. 19, 20,
2G, 36, 37, -18, 49, 62. 79. 85, 105, 109,
139, 140, 150, 255, 270, 275, 283, 291,
297. 303, S05, 313, 333. 340, 352, 357,
363, 395. 401, 40-^ 414. 418. 515, 563,
576. 610, 614; John. 628; Oliver, 610,
61 1 ; William, 9. 375, 558, 681, 585, 587,
610.
Presidents of Congress. 16, 83, 149, 150,
ni. 178, 273, 366, 357, 494.
Presioii. Edward, 604.
Price, James. 752 ; Mr. 707.
Prince, (a nepro.) 679.
Princeton. 14, 82. 177,277,336,351,429,
4c9, 587,628. 643.
Prisoners, 166. 172, 235, 300.301. 303, 306,
315, 316, 489, 490, 491, 493, 495, 497,
499, 500, 530,532,595,696; American,
184, 189, 232, 404, ^108.
Proclamations for Fast, 384, 390, 392.
Governor Game's, 3, 4, 5, 3:30, 331.
of Provincial Congress, 344.
Procter. Mr. 381.
Pro>peci Hill, 4;?3, 575.
Providence, 166, 169, 222.
Provincetown, 12, 81.
Province Monevs, 65, 66.
Provisions. 410', 411, 418, 469, 505, 610,
516.570,583.
Proul, Ehenezer, 321, 323.
Putnam, Aaron, 4-19 ; Edward, 13; Enoch,
595; Henrv,C79; Gen. Israel, 191 , 482,
S61,.58I.68.i; James, 639, 640; Nathan,
679; Perle.v,679.
Pynchon, Charles, 10; George, 10; Wil-
liam, Jr 79.
Quarter Master General, 6W, 332, 534,
548, 56(i.
Queher. 51, 59, 98, 99, 100, 227, 313, 710,
725, 735, 7A;.
Qnincv, Kdnumd, 132.585; Col. 220, 560;
Mr. '147 ; Norton, 35, 36, 88, 89, 535.
Rags, 64, 89. 94.
Rains(l<4l. .Miednego, 679 ; Joseph, 621.
Rand, Isaac, lOtJ, 461 ; Thomas, 610.
Randolph, I'evlon, 731. 739.
R.iwson, Al>n"er, 277 ; David. 7, 77. 141,
236 ; Edward, 13. 82. 140, 149, 168. 179.
198. 199, 201, 203, 208, 228, 229, 23-1,
217,628,635,637.638.
Ra}°niond, John, 679.
Rnynham, 12, HI . 177, 2TJ, 138, C "6.
Ren. John, II.
Read, George. 678; George. 740; John, 9,
79, tilO; 'Ihomns. ;«10 ; Wdlinm, 174,
\'iil, 221, 663 (,61, 663, 666, 668, 669,
670,671,672 674,673
Reading 9. '<«. 274. 457. 591.
Recei\. f (Antral, 36, .37, 38, .39. 45. 65,
98, 101, 113, |i:6, 186, 207, "29. 2;it,
3.JI, 108, 422, 437, 466. Sec Gardner,
Henry.
Records, C.tinly, 209. 211.
R.ctuiiing Onii efs, 493, 692.
Re<l<l,i..>;i Isaac. 61.').
Reid. Asahel, 678; I)avi<l. 4.35; Isaac,
691; Joseph, 14: Joseph, 9 79, 218,
270. 275, 4(;i. 463. 493. .')63, 561, .'Jti.l,
.5!:(i, 695 ; Jo.shun. (567 ; Joshua, Jr. (i67 ;
Nathan, 667; William, Jr. 621.
Refugees. .322. 337. 348. 3<.8, 3<;9,4-18, 161,
470, 475, 4«(;, 5;H, .')66.
ReholH.th, 12, 81, 177, 278, 337, 332, 438,
675, ()26.
Reniingi»)n, John, 8.
Representation of Colony, 40, 198, 208,
733.
Re))resentaiivcs. 3, 4, 5. 359, 642.
Retailers 126,591.649.
Revere, Paul. 214, 245, 296, 297, 369, 375,
.390, .399, 404, 421, 437, 441, 4<i5, 467,
172. 473.
Revnolds. Nnihaniel 621.
Rhode Islan.l. 135, 1.36. 137, 1 9 156. 157,
308, 352, 387, 416, 419, 523, 500, 537,
555. 726, 739. 749.
Rhodes, James, 358.
Rire, Stephen. 14. 277. 628 ; Thomas, 436.
Riclimond, 15. 83 177. 276. 459.
Richmon<l. Ezra. 278. 286.290.291.294,
297. .325. 326. 333, SIO, »47. 423, 4;30,
432, 43^1, 141,446, 449, 465; Nathaniel,
528.
Richardson, David, 373; Edward, 332,
672; Henrv, 573 ; Moses, 678.
Ridge, Henjamin. 575
Rights, Declaration of. 50. 56, 733-3.
Riois, 605. 620, 627.660,659.
Ripley, William. (522.
Rivinglon, James. 26.
Rivington's Gazetteer. 24, 25. 650.
Robl.ins, John, 665, 666, G79 ; Eliphalct,
609.
Roberson, Col. 85.
Robinson, Hradburv, 67."> ; James, 273 ;
Lemuel. 7. 17, 29. 50. 273. 29«;. 303, 327,
3.32, 3;V1. 338. 339, 342. 352. M'£. ^M,
468. 471, 473. 495, 507. 3<J8. 51 1, 515,
516. 563, 605; Timothy, 11.27.3.
Rochester. II, 80. 278, 412, 458, 621.
Rodick, John, 494.
Rodncv. <'npsar, 740.
Rogers, Daniel, Jr. 610 ; Jacob, 591 ; Wil-
liam, 2 t-l.
Romans, Mernard, 264. 696,700,701,702.
Ronvelo. .Monsieur. 716.
Ro|)«-s. Jonathan, Jr. 8, 77.
Rose. Prince, 222.
Ross, George. 740.
Rosscter. Col. 51-1.
Round. Nathan, 676.
Kowe. U>.
Rowe, John, 340, 434.
774
INDEX.
Rowlcv. 8. 78, 8fi. 274., 457, 615.
RoAhury, 7, 74, 77. 108, IKi, 1.35. IVj. 147,
17.3, 2dG. 257. 27.5. .305. 322. 366, 375,
457, 510, 513 537, 540. 541, (.71).
Royiil. Eliznhelh, 57.5 ; Isaac. .3f).
Kovali>ts. (18. 0.36, 63a, 641, 642, 6.1-7.
RoViilists. 14, 82, 177, 277, 336, 351, 429,
4.5'J. 643
Riidilock. Jolin, 572.
Riiir?l.-s. J..l)ii, 315 ; Nathanifl, 9^1 ; Tim-
othy, 30, 61, 68, 113, 634, 639, 640, 647.
Riiin, 511.
Russell. F.phraim.432; James, 36,61, 236,
250. 251, 260. 286, 442. 451 ; Ja^oii, 678 ;
Jeremiah, 5.'!7 ; Peter. 61.5; Pliihp, 667;
Seih 678; Thomas, 363.
Ruihcrrord, John, 546
Kiinefljre. Edward. 740; John, 740. 741.
Ruilaiid. 13, 82. 177, 276, 330, 361, 429,
431.458.41)7,64.3.
Ruiland Disirin, 13. 459, 628
Sabbaih, 320. .333, 342, 349, 303, 392, .569.
.Saoo, 12.
Sadler, Abiel, 14, 82, 277, 3.52, 452, 453.
579.
Safety, Committee of. 32, 33, 35, 42, 48,
t;n. :;:i. yo 97, loo, 143, 147, us, 150,
164, 185, 218, 225, 235, 2.30, 2.38, 240,
241, 242, 301, 406, 419, 424, 427, 470,
490, 498, 505, 514, 5.38, 550, 551, 555,
.5'!l, .500. .579, 580, 698, 7 0, 701, 703,
708. 711, 712, 724, 748, 751, 752, 753.
Sale, Johii, 273
.Salem, 3, 4, 7, 8. 31, 43, 4/5, 52, 77, 152,
1.58, 222, 223, 274, 285, 305, 3(i6, 41 1^
412. 421, 457, 477. 480, 520, 535, 615,
618', 679.
Sali-.l..iry, 8, 78, 274, 41 1 , 412, 457, 615.
Salt, 04, 490 495.
Saltpetre, 63, 98, 100, 291. 35k 417,418,
421.
S.Tm-ion, Elizabeth, 691.
Saiidford, 12, 158,458.
Sandisfiel.l, 15, 83, 177, 276. 459.
Sandwich, 12, 81, 223,278,392,434,437,
458.
Sajiderson. Elijah. 662 ; Samuel, 668.
Sanger, David. 58 1, 586, 587, 588, 597,
610; Richard, 78, 010; Samuel, 474,
587.
Sargent, Nathaniel Pea.slce, 78, 139,152;
Col. 547
Saiterlee, William, 466, 718.
Savau:e, Samuel P. 9.
Saunders, Mr. 206.
Sawver, AarMn, 028,047; Ebenezcr, 14!,
228,231 ; Ephraim. 028; Joiin, 86, 94;
Doc-t. 197. 193, 199, 204,208,221,225,
255, 286, 290, 294, 299, 318. 362, 373,
383, 396, 411, 412.
Sawtell, Josiah, 610 ; Obediah, 610.
Sayer, Ei.enezer, 12, 62, 65, 81. 85, 91,
255, 280, 291, 310, 314, 318, 321, 325,
326, 303, .308.
Scammons, Col. James, 270, 291, 557, 563,
582, 590.
Scarborough, 15, 83, 279, 413, 459, 655.
Schuvler, Gen Philip, 720.
Scituatc, 11, 80, 93, 98, 103, 104, 278, 458,
021.
Scollay, John, 476, 477, 478, 481 .
Scott Benjamin,. Jr. 531; Samuel, 435.
Sea Coasts, 313, 317, 353, 402, 406,408,
41 1, 412, 425, 426, 431, 443, 554.
Seai>ori Towns, 291, 293, 291-, 488, 492,
521.
Seavcr, Elijah, 679.
Secretary ot (."ohniy, 22, 5-5.
ot Provii;cial Congres.«, 16. 84, 149,
1.50, 161, 214, 273, 289, 320, 357, 461,
464, 407, 468.
I Sedg-wicU, Theodore, 652, 655.
Selectmen. 34, 99.
Sergeant, John, 615; I'aul Dudlev, 374,
522,691; VVinthrop, 3;i2; Col. 540, 565.
Sessions, Darius, 1.33. 157, 169.
Sever. Josc|)li, .^05; Sjhubael, 505; Wil-
liam, 30, 37, 40, 51, 278.290,294,295,
305. 308, 309, 317, 324, 330. 332, 3J8,
.350'
Sewall. Hummer, 141. 412, 4.'^6 ; Jonathan,
.340. 583 ; Proles.sor, 298, 418.
Sharon, 7.
Shaw. Elijah, 541 ; Solomon, 644; Wil-
liam, 435.
Shawamet, 12, 458.
Sheep, 495. 496. 659, 737.
Sheffield, 1.5, 83, 177, 276. 459.
Shelburne, 10, 79, 177, 270, 337, 458.
Shepherd, David, 295.
Sheppard, Alexander, 432, 443. 448,453,
547,712.
Sherl)urjie, 9. 78, 170, 275, 457.
Sherburne, (.Najitucket,) 13, 81, 279, 453.
Sherman, John, 82 ; lloger. 739
Shewsbury, 14, 82, 177, 256, 277, 336, 351,
429, 431, 459, 497, 628, 643.
Siiillaber. Robert, 413, 421; William, 274,
406, 403, 464, 4(56, 487, 615.
Shirley. 9, 79, 3.37, 352, 4.57.
Shirr.-H'. William. 309, .320.
Shovels, 393, 471', 474, 489, .506, 574.
Shutesbury, 10, 11, 80, 177, :i76, -337, 430,
468. '
Sibley, John, 399.
Sick and Wounded, 430, 437, 445, 455, 527.
Siiiimins, J 510
Simmons, Jonas, 578 ; Joshua, 621.
Simonds. Joseph, 007.
Simpson, Joiiaihan, 36.
Sincl.iir, Nathaniel, 435.
Sins^let^rv, Amos, 82, 276, 292, 326,407,
41 1, 116, 420, 421, 428, 628.
Skeenhorough, 329, 695, 696, 700.701,704,
717.
Skene, Major Philip, 696, 700, 717. 725,
720.
Skiiiiier, Thomas, 300.
Slave Tr.ide.730.
Slavs, 29, 302, 653, 7-36
Slead, I'hil.p, 278. 280, 283, 352.
SniMJl l'o.\, 293, 294, 406, 423, 499, 570,
582, .516.
Smith, Btaddvl, 9, 72.78. 206, 275, 299.
333, .349. 39.3, ■«)6, 460, 474 ; (^alvin, 248 ;
Capt 315, 31(); Col. (liriiish atmv ) 154,
155, 601, 062, 679 680, 081, 682; Eb-
einzer, 206,291 ; Hezekiali, 27li ; Isaac.
292; John, 528, 628; Johii,6(i7; Joiia-
th.ui, 141; Jonathan, Jr. 6i)2 ; Joseph,
563. 587; Josiah. 9, 610; I'hineas, 10.
173, 275, 007; Parsons, .5!;7 ; Raiiford,
13, 2;5, 02, 141; Richard. 740; Samuel,
8, 78, 015; Capt. Samuel. 8, 78, 173,
INDKX.
CI5; Smnucl, 417; Thomas, 7.').') ; Tim-
oihy.tiliU.
Sliaku l^l. 111(1, 5lo.
Snow, SiiDi-uii. (ili7.
Soldi.rs. ;J.J, Ili7. 181), 190, 199, 207.228.
";(l, Jki, 'Jt.(i, 2«(), ;JI7, My, :{.H, Mo,
Xhi, -.lol. :!.■)!;, MHI. »()7, IK). III. U.},
•n+, H(i. H7, n;i, w;}. iw,, ui, kou,
471. 472, UJJ, 493, 497, 319, 3G8, 379,
693. 74a.
So|)fr. IMiiiuiid. I-U. 487, 5:13.
Sc)uili.im|.i..M. 10,79, 177,33(5, .S3 1,433.
Sinillilniv, ll.i.
Souihi.oroiis;!., 14 82. 177, 277, .'«G, 331 ,
429,4:31. 139, G28, (143.
Souili Hri.nfieM, 10, 80. 177, 275, Ml, 331,
43(', 133
Soiiih (';\r..liiia, 733. 740.
Souili Hiullev, 10,79, 177, 275, 33G, 351,
429. 158.
Souihwirk. 10. 177,337,331,438,019.
Si)Uihwii-k. Gi'orgf, G79
S|>iid.-s, 393, 489, .^OC, 574.
S|Kiflr.>r<l. D.iiiiel, (jl5; Isaac. 449.
Sp.Trliawk, Naihau, G28, G48 ; Nalhaiiiel,
(i09.
Spaulding. Simeon. 9, 78, 140. 274, 283,
291. 333, 44<J, 432, 4<i2, 463, 582, 591,
610.
Spear, David, 11,276.481.
Spears. .355. 3.">7. .358, 387, 391,392,397,
418, 43G,4(3C,,4ti9.
Spencer. 13. 82, 177, 277, 33G, 351, 429,
431.438,628.64^.
Spirituous Liquors, 340, 4<]1 , 475, 486, 591,
G49.
Spooner. Waller, 3(5, 37, 40. 43. 278. 281,
290, 2'JI, 294, 297, 30.5. 313, 317. 3i8,
320, 321, 324, 327, 333. .35(J, 412, 462,
465, 490, 719, 7211, 721, 723, 724.
Sprngue, John, 638; Samuel, 9,79, 275,
381, 401, 479, .557. 610.
S[iriii^, Samuel, 675 ; Doct. .357, 361.
Spiiiiglirld, 10,79, 177, 222,223,275,336,
331,398.400, 429, 4.JS.
Sproal, Ebeiie. er. 11,621.
Siaiiley, .■Vinos, 575 ; (leorge, 575.
Siaiiwoiid, S.imiifl. 436, 533, 633.
Siark,C<>l.3J4, 547.
Siaikweaiher. Epiiraim, 278, 414, 416.
Sie.nri.s, .AMjah, 14, 414; Jolui, 278, .'J33 ;
Josiali, 434 ; .M.iry, 627 ; I'hiiieas, 667.
Stet>biiis, Joseph, 349, 562
Siediiiaii, Eheuezer, 105, 505, 508, 310,
512,513.
Su-el, .Meiiiulaciure. 6.3.
Sue!, John. 590 ; Thomas, 637. 638.
SieviMs. Joliii, 43."j ; Josiah, 4H- ; .Samuel,
Jr. 610; Wil iain. 578.
Si. George's, 43.), 439.
Slickiiev, Jniialhaii. 5(55; William. 9. 67.
78, 97", lO't. 161. 192. 221. 27t. 283. 421,
432. Gi>:i. 6(15. 666, (i6K. 6ti9, 670, 673.
Siillmau, Ge..rs:e, .392, .i%, 4;J.5.
Si John's, 2(i7y See Croicn Point.
Maud of. 313.
Si Luke La Come. 707. 715. 716.
Slockl.ridge, 13. 83, 177, 276, 311, 439,
652. See Indians.
Slockinss, 64.
Stone, Henjamin, !:V;, 5.?.5 ; Eheuezer, 610 ;
Gregory, 671; Isaac, 82, 179, 192, 199,
214, 217, 229, 2:«;, 277, ■»,
300, 3('5. 310, 313, 321, J,
338, o<;i, 36U. ;J«4, 397, U... .... ,:*),
462, 483, IIU, 186, 4'.<9, 3'9 ; Ji.nii-»,
337; John, 7(j3; Jonas 9,78, 160, 161,
27»,'L'98,;.93, UA), li;9. 610; J.,i,ii., Jr.
610 667 ; Joni.ilii.n. 617. 619 ; J..^ii.h, 9,
78, 1.39, JIH, 149. 133. \M, 119, 179,11.9,
190, 197, 2iH, 209, 218, 213, 274. 296,
299, 317, 318, :J3J, 333. 392, 410, 419,
420, 4i5. 413. 4.>0, k>L \t\:\, 463, 470,
474. 485. 4};8, 189, 493. 191, 493, 498,
573,590,610, 611; Samuel, 9 ; Seih,
392
Sloiieham, 9, 79, 273, 438.
ore I louses, 421. 427. 167, 473.
Store Keepers, 10-2. 103
Sioiighion, 7. 77, 133. 2.)6.273. 457,516.
Su.ugl Iiam. 7, 77, Hii. 437, 316, 317.
Sii>ry, Joliii. W2.
Siorer, John. (i3j. 636.
Slow, 9,79, 176, 2.i<;. 273. 337, 332, 457,
511,513.516.517.518,679.
Slow, Jonathan. 9. 610.
Straw, 27, 87. 2W;, 211.
Siriiigcr, rSamnel, 403.
Stioni, George. 655.
Sutil.ridge, 14, 82, 177, 277. 336, 351, 429,
459, 6 k3.
Styles, Ely, 500, 596.
Sudl.urv. 9. 78. \H\, 216, 2^6, 274, 157.
516, ol7, 513, .5.58. 678.
SuHolk (.'ountv.7. 23, 41, 62,72, 77, 140,
150, 176. 2o(J, 273, 337. 352, 333, 437,
439, 479, 601-9.727,728,735
Sulhvan, James, 12, 51, 53, 56, 62, 65, 67,
72. 81 ; 8.5. 86. 93. 9L 96, 97,98, 141, 148,
149, 13.1, 217, 218, 220, 229, ISi, 233,
23G, 237, 210, 279, 297, 298, 300. 303,
305, 309, 321, .322, 324, 327, 331. Ill
461, 462, 465, 467,470,720; John, 739.
Sulphur, 334
Sumner. James, 628; Jehu, 141; Nathan-
iel. 605.
Sumler!,.nd, 10, 79. 177. 275. 3:37. 351, 458.
Supervisors ol ihe Camp, 574, .577.
Su|.plie-, Comincttre ol, M, 33, 38. 88, 91.
96.97, 130. 163, IW. 207, 218. 2.4, 228,
403, 404. 4(J8, 143, 44^5, 132, -kXJ, 470,
301. 303. 5.57
Si.pplies lor the Arinv, 505. 506.
Snrg.ons, 203, 290,' 321, 32.3. 3M. 361,
3<4, 377, 38;J, 384, 415, 424, 437, 419,
4<;4. 470, 472, 476, 488, 506, 321, 338,
341, 719.
Su-prcii»i I'crsons, 202.
Siiiilers, 12<;. 207.
Suiion, 13. 82. 177. 236. 276, 336. 351,
4.'9. 131 138. 497. 628. Gi:i.
Swaiizev, 12. 81. 278, 138, 626.
Swan, i)irk. 711
Swill. Jol>, 7. 77 ; .Moses, 12, 141, 223, 278.
Sylvester. William. i94.
S^inonds, Joshua, 610.
."Sx rups 37, 730.
Tar. .543
Tarriiiff and Feathering. 131.
Taunion, 12, 81, 129, 177, 278, 458, 626,
627.
Taxe.s, 19, .'58. 39, 45, 46, 66, 63, 98, 101,
506, 507. 658, 743.
Taylor, Daniel, 9, 472, 5^10, 610; Ezra,
776
INDEX.
53'^, 637; Gillam, 432 ; Doet. Jo'.n, 8'2,
85,93, 139, 148. 149, 153, 157, 1(10. 1G3,
1G9, 170, 172, 173, 178, 179, 184,185,
18G, 189, 191, 192, 195, 197, 193, 203,
20.5, 206, 211, 212, 220, 229, 2.>2, 23.3,
236, 2.58, 251,277, 280, 281, 282, 286,
299, 305, 306, 313, 318, 321, 325, 327,
330, 333, 340, 3C0, .361, .362, 363, 368,
375, 380, 383, 399, 401-, 414. 417, 419,
420, 427, 436, 442, 446, 448, 449, 452,
4.56, 460, 461, 462, 463, 471. 477,479,
482, 4113,488,489,490, 501, 628; John,
10; Jonathan, 14 ; Mr. 326; Mr. 513,
514, 515, I'hiiiehas, 610; iSaniuel, 80;
William, 531,605.
Teas, India, 25, 26, 101, 102, 737.
Temple, John, 9, 78, 274, 452 ; Josepii,
500 ; Roliert, 559, 560.
Templeton, 14, 82, 177, 277, 3.36, 351, 429,
459, 643.
Tender, 41,416.
Ten E3'ck,5Barent, 533.
Tenis, .509, 510,566.
Tevvksbury, 9, 79, 177, 275, ?52, 458.
'i'hanksgiving, Day of, 24, 27, 28.
Thaichci's I.sland, 3DI, 336, 442.
Thaicher, I'eier, 594; Samuel, 274, 283,
292, 293, 334, 364, 397, 399, 403, 445,
55^,451,609.
Tiia\er, Alexander, 277, 315; Ebcnezer,
7, 19, 20,34,67,531,605.
Tliaxier, Mr. 367.
Thomas, Anthony, 621 ; Ebenezer, 621 ;
Edward, 278 ; Isaiah, 201, 223, 249, 527,
542, 618, 661 ; CI. John, 11, 22, 23, 51,
62. 65, 67, 80, 85, 87, 90, 93, 96, 1.33,
223, 239, 25 ;, 270, 280, 282, .367, 376,
404, 408, 436, 4.37, 455, 469, 482, .526,
527, 531, 532, 5.36, 544, 5.53. 563, 567,
574, 587, 621, 622; Nathaniel Kay, 36,
61. 113; Ni'hemiah, 11 ; Waterman,
432; William, 621.
Thompson, Barnabas, 621 ; Benjamin, 247;
Capt. 373; Charles, 314, 354,359,706;
Ebenezer, 278, 479 ; Samuel, 15, 19, 20,
25, 62,72, 83, 111, 139, 141, 214, 279,
285, 286. 290, 297, 300, 301, 318, 326,
327, 332, 337, 355, 370, 380, 392, 402,
412, 415, 421, 655. 6.56; Thomas, 244;
William,?, 19, 20, 601, 605; William,
610; Col, 217, 2n. 219, 237, 397.
Thomson, Daniel, 678.
Thornton, Matthew, 308.
Thur>ton, Daniel, 8, 78, 198, 199, 201, 244,
256,274,353,479,615.
Tiron<leroe:a, 2.33, 231, .3;^5, 2.36, 239. 250,
258, 263-70, 281, 287. 288, 290, 293, 321,
322, 324, 32.5. 327, 3.32, 372, 406, 4fi0,
461, 4^)2, 465, 490, 495, 529, 534, 695,
726, 727.
Tiild, Benjamin, 666 ; John, 679; Samuel,
6(17; William, 667.
Tilfrhman, Maitlipw, 740
Tii'kham, Joseph, 210, 211, 21G.
'I'in riaic, 63.
Tisbury, 13,81,279,458.
Titconib, Jonathan, .343
Tohev, Samuel, Jr. 279, 291.
'i'oby. John, 407 410.
Tolland, 10
'i'olman, Docl.679; Joseph, 621 ; William,
418.
Tomson, Ebenezer, 80.
Topsfield, 8, 78, 274, 457, 615.
Topsham. 15, 83. 220, 2i2, 279, 459.
Torrev, John, 514, 621,622
Towns and Districts, 33. .39, 45, 4C. 38, 67,
71,73, 98, 99, 109, 114, 116, 139,176,
18+, 209, 210, 215, 256, 257, 336, 358,
359, 364, 397. 420, 457, 4C2, 478, 479,
518, 526, 570, 593, 756.
Towiisl.end, 9, 79, 176, 256, 275, 337, 352,
371, 376, 457.
Townshend, Daniel, 679.
Tracy, Elislia, 80.
Train, 141, 142, 198, 200, 212, 213, 218,
220, 232, 292, 3*i, 341, 373, 378, 381,
383, 395, 397 399, 515, 562.
Treadwell,Mr. 578.
Treason, 125, 126.
Treachery in the .4rmy, 363, 397.
Treasury, 113, 151, 160, 168, 169, 185.
Treasuries, 51.
Trescolt, Lemuel, 577.
Trevet, Samuel Russell, 581.
Tnckey. Zebulon,216.
Tfott, Thomas, 653.
Trumbull, Col. 207; Gov. Jonathan, 181,
18.i, 196, 270, 287, 298, 325, 372, 387,
395, 404, 406, 445. 446. 447, 487. 679-
704, 706, 709, 722, 725, 741 ; Joseph,
149. 240, 288.
Tru o, 12,81,278,297,458.
Tuiker, Benjamin, 621 ; John, 543; Joua-
than, 13, 82, 628
Tuckcrmaii, Abraham, 432 ; Lieut. 301.
Tufts, Simon, 221,676.
Turner, John. 11, 278, 621 j Seth, 441;
William, 621.
Twinmg, 'i'homas, 368
Tyler, Naihan, 628, 637, 640.
Tyng, James, 9, 79, 275, 305, 460, 461 ;
John, 9,79, 97, 275; William, 219, 655,
656.
Tynngham, 15. 83, 177, 276, 459.
U"pham, Joshua, 637, 638; I'hinehas, 13,
19, 20, 26, 628 ; Thomas, 610.
Upton, 14, 82, 177, 277, 336, 351, 429, 459,
643.
Uran, Thomas, 572.
Uxbridge, 14, 82, 177, 277, 336, 351, 429,
431,459,643.
Vance, William, 573.
Vassal. John, 549, 557, 558, 576, 587, 393 ;
Madam, 5U, 587; William, 36.
Vassalborougli, 15,83,459.
Vessels, Small Armed, 308, 310, 317, 318,
321, 327, 340, 357, 358, 361, 469^
Vice President of I'rovincial Congress,
301.
Viart, Monsieur, 594.
Viles. Joel, 667.
Viiial, Gideon, 11; Israel, Jr. 621; Wil-
liam, 449
Vincent, George, 375, 377.
Vinton, Capt 'Wl.
Viiginia,74u, 746, 747.
Vomhnvi, Henries, 446, 586.
Vosp, Daniel, 273, 306, 326, 404, 413, 416,
479.484.601.
Voting. 631.
W.n<Uworili, Jonathan, 13; Feleg, 621 j
Wade. (i21.
Wagou Master, 312, 349.
INDEX.
Waitp, Jolin,k«;,G55, G56.
Wald... Joseph, Ul.
Wiil.lol.orough, I.'), 333.
Willi's, 10.
VViiles, NaihnniH, Jr. lO."), 141), 707.
Walker, Hciijamin. CIO; Col r)58,rM;
Eliinllian, IJ. 81 ; Jolin, 517, r>\\) ; Mr.
717; .Srlas, i'>12; Thomas, 7j'2 ; 'I'iino-
thv, V, 7'.t, llo. 171. nt), filO ; Col. Tim-
oiliy, IJ, i5. !!l, 13<i, 2VG, 270, 471}
Zachariah, 37.'J, .574.
VVallis, l)i-niiis, G7;»; Joseph, J.IS.
Walpolo. «, 77, I7li, -2^;, 273, 337, 352,
•lo7; N. H.4S4.
Wahhaiti, 'J. 71), 8fi, 275, 457, 507, 522, S-H),
5.50, 5.52. M'J.
Waiiloi). Joseph J. 1.57.
War.l, Ariemas. 14, l(i, 19, 20. 23, 35, 3(1,
40. 01,82.84, II0,L»3, 97, 105, Uii, 195,
203, 205, 20G, 220, 2.33, 235, 239, 24^),
242, 243, 24o, 217, 218, 249, 2.57, 270,
299, 302, 303, 305, 309. 318, 355, 357,
m;, 3r.7, 3fis, 375, 37c, 378, 379, 3f;3,
387, 390, 397. 398, 400, 401, 402, 403,
40-1, 407, 419, 4.33, 437, H-1-, 453, 4.55,
4C7, 482, 511, 512, 521, 627, 5.W, 551,
552 557. 558, 500, 5G3, .504, 579, 580,
597, 028; 037. 048. 019, 050; Hezeki-
ah, 047, 051 ; Joiiaihan, 14, 2,57. 537,
558, 503, 504 ; Joseph, 355 ; Samuel,
739 ; Capl. Samuel, 028, 031, 038.
Ware, 11, 80, 177, 270, 337, 458.
Wnrcham, 11.412.458,021.
Warlike Implemenls, 97, .500. 507, 508.
Warlike Stores, 35. 37, 41, 93. 98, 99, 105,
210, 350, 500-518, 521, 527, 545, 701,
750.
Warner, Jonathan, 277, 028, 090.
Warren, 14.
Warren, Ebenezer. 432 ; Eli|ah, 270 ;
James, 11, 17, 23. 29, 31,35, 30, 37, 50,
72,80,84,110, 117, 137, 141, 178, 179,
183. 185, 190, 191. 192, 193. 197, 198,
201, 202. 208, 212, 210, 217. 21S, 220,
221, 225. 228, 230, 239, 240, 278, .305,
308, 309, 318, 321, 322, 330, 332, .338,
340, 35?, 353, 357 ; ( Presiileni.) 370, 389,
390, 391, 411, 418, 415. 417. 4«1, 480,
489, 494, 501, 511. 512. 021.022; John
D. 578; Joseph. 7, 10. .^5, 41, 50, 59,
62, 77, 87, 88, 89, 93, 97, 98, 105, 100,
107, 117. 132, 147, 149, 159, 172, 178,
183, 187, 191, 192, 197, 203, 208, 219,
220, 225, 232, 233, 2.30, 2.33, 240, 241,
240, 217, 251, 273, 281, 283, 293. 308,
3:30, .333, .3^19, 35!;, 3<;o, 3<;0, 423, 505,
500, 507. 509, 510, 511, 512, 519, 525,
520, 529, 530, 511. 512, 5.5.5. .579. 590,
605, 000, 095. 708, 724; William, »11.
Warwick, 10, 11, 80, 177, 270, 337, 351,
4;50, 158.
Washburn, Ebenezer, 278, 151.
Washington, Gen. George, 391, 395. 393,
399, 100. 418, 430, 4,38, 439. 4^10, +H,
44.5, 4-47, 419, 451, 4o2, 455, 400, 401,
403, 465, 460, 407, 408, 471, 477. 481,
482. 4S0, 492, 493. 195, 500, 589, 591,
593, 591, 595, 590, 740.
Walerlown. 8, 78. 1.15, 147. 171, 273, 274,
2'^0, 317, 359. 41 1, 419, 41:3, 4.51, 457,
4»1, 489. 500, 5^10, 550, 551, 561. 5<J0,
678.
98
Wnlson, .Abraham. 8, 20, 2.5, .35, 41 . 51,72,
78, HI, 89, 93, HI. 108, 111, l.X). 147,
148, ilS. 210, 211, 274, 279. -119, 498,
505, .506, .507, 508, .5(J9, 510, 511, 5lt,
513, 514. 515,511,, 518, .526, 528, .512,
riCn, 5«;9. 577, .579, .582, .58 1 , 6(J9 ; George,
ai\; Oliver, 277; William, 223,225, m,
621.
Walls. Samuel, 8,77.
Webb, Jolham, 679.
Webber, John, 610,
Webster, Jonathan, Jr. 78. 1.3.5, 1.52, 179,
192, 199. 205, 20<;, 210, 228, 21;J, Z55,
274, 293, 299, 30;J, .305, 318, 320, 325,
3.32, .360, :5«>3, 375, 38<J, 401, 401, 405,
416, 419, 615.
Weincel. 12,81,270,4.58.
Wclliiigioii, Joseph, rOH.
Welles, John, 752.
Wells, 12, 81, 1.5!!, 1.59. 222. 279, 411, 4.58.
Wells, Davi.l, 79 ; Noah, 276.
Wemlall.Oliver, 77, 273.
Wen.lell, 10.
Wcnham, G, 78. 274, 457, 615.
Wentwo.ili, 11 2!.2; John, 138.
Wesson. Mr. 5.58.
West, Uev. Mr. 0.55 ; Samuel, 582.
Wesiboroiigh. 14. 82, 177. 2.50, 277, 3.30,
351, 129, I.-5I. 4.59, 628, 013
Western. 14, 82, 177, 277, 336, 351, 429,
459, 013.
Wesifield, 10. 79. 177. 275. 337. 351, 458.
Wcstford. 9. 79, 170,250,275,337,352,457.
Wcsihninpton, 10.
West Indies, 7.37, 747.
Westminster, 14, 82, 177, 277, 336, 351,
429, 459, C>Ui.
Wcsion, 9. 78, 170, 256, 275, 457.
West Springfield, 10,79, 177, 275, 336, 351,
4.58.
West Stockbriilge, 15.
Weiherbv, Mr. 515.
Wevmouih, 7, 77, 273, HI, 457, 631, 5.35,
.533.
Whale Boats. 431, 430, 441, 487, 501, 522,
531,5K), 550, 533.
Whaling Vessels, 295.
Whaielev. 10. 80, 177, 276. .336, 458.
WheaK.n Levi. 12; Maj. .390.
Wheeler, Kranris, 673 ; John, 575 ; Jo-
seph, 14, 27, 29, 41, 51. 65, 67, 277, 281,
291, 301. .-305, 310, 320, ;357, 361. 363,
369. 374, 377, 386. 422. 423. 445, 455,
■V\ 1 , 4(52, UVX. 479, 628, 633 ; Peter, 673 ;
Trueman, 201.
Whcelock, Mr. 417, 471.
Whipple, Francis, 637, 638; Jacob, 490;
Wdliam, 203.
Whiiromb, Asa, 13. 82, 1 18, 208, 210. 245,
216, 270, 296. 5.36, 5.'8, .5<.2, 5(">3, .578,
628.6.37,610; John, 102. 199. 20-1,208,
321. 320. 333. 3-10. ;}J50. 400. 516.
While. Henjamin. 7. ;?5. 42. 77, 89. 178,
23!{, 240, 241, 273, .381, 392, 431, 454,
466, 471. 498. 505, 506, 507. 508, 509,
510. 511. 512, 513, 511, 515. 510, 526,
553, .562. 5(;7, 5<i8, .569.571,605; Ben-
jamin. 80, 273; Ebenezer, 11. 141, 278.
a5.3, 462. 403. 686, 621 ; Elilui, 275 ;
Jcnaihan, 79; Josima. 80, 141. 278;
Salmon, 276 ; Samuel. 8,li2, 615; Sam-
ucl, GIO ; William, 447, 686.
778
INDEX.
Whitlicail, Joliii, ()7K
Whiting, Jeremiah, 277; William, 13,72,
83, 198,201,204,223.276,280,281,290,
297, 298, 304, 320, 321, 323, 355, SGI,
374, 3/5, 381, 392, 400, 403, 417, 418,
419, 421, 423, 489.
Whilman, Charles, 610.
Whiliiey, Daniel, 27.5, 358; Lieut. 677;
Oliver, 82, 204, 220, 686; Samuel, 9;
Col.246, 516, 558, 562, 563.
Whiitcmore, Jacob, 206; Mrs. 505, 506,
607, 508; Samuel, 78, 15G, 1.59, 161,
236, 240, 251, 2.54, 274, 284, 305, 317,
374, 379, 452, 461, 462, 561. 615, 678;
Capt. Samuel, 609.
Wliittcn, I'liineas, 435.
Wliiitaker, Richard, 575-.
Wliillier, Kbenezcr, 133.
VVliiiton, Klias, 370.
Wickcs, Thomas, 157.
Wier, Eleazor, 586.
Wilbraham, 10, 79, 177, 275, 336, 351, 429-,
453.
Wilder, David, 628; Joseph, 637, 638;,
Samuel, 637.
Wiley, John, 364, 373, 397, 399, 672.
Willard, Abel, 637,638 ; Abijah,36 ■, Capt.
649; Joshua, 637; Levi, 449; Thomas
Rice, 664
William, Henry, 267-9.
Williams, George, 278, 353; Israel, 36;
John, 692; John Chandler, 529, 555,
578; Josepii, 254; Lemuel, 183; Leon-
ard, 86; Capt. Samuel, 271 ; Col. Sam-
uel, 11, 80, 276, 281. 467, 486; Simeon,
278; Thomas. 15, 19, 20, 27, 320, 573,
594,652; Hon. William, 105, 149, 239,
287, 288, 707, 709
Williamsburg, 10,79, 177, 276, 280, 318,
.337, 458.
Wiiriamstown, 15, 83, 177, 276, 459, 717.
Willing, Benjamin, 3o6.
Willinglon, Enoch, 667.
Wilmington, 9, 79, 177, 275, 352, 458.
Wilson, Ephraim, 637; Jonatlian, 678;
Mr. 203, 74L
Winchendon, 14, 82, 177, 336, 351, 429,
459, 643.
Winchester, Daniel, 10.
Windham, 83, 439, 635.
Wines, 57, 736.
VV^ing, Simeon, 434.
Winn, Timothy, 533.
Winship, Ebenezer. 341, 562; Jason, G78 ;
John, 668, 692; Jonathan, 490 ; Lydia,
687; Margaret, C92 ; Simon, 664, 665;
Thomas, GG7, 679.
Winslrw,'-]5, 83, 439.
Wiijslow, Benjamin, 436 ; Edward, Jr.
625 ; Isaac, 36; Joshua, 483, 487.
Wloior, 13.
Winthrop, 15,83,459.
Winthrop, James, 223, 4-55, 474, 592 ; John,
8, 27, 36, 53, 36 ; Hon. Mr. 334, 382.
Wiscassct, 15.
Wisncr, Henry, 740.
Wiswall, Noah, 679 ; Parson, 218 ; Thom-
as, 276, 415.
Witcher, E. 412
Wilham, Daniel, 615.
Wilhcren, Charles, 610.
Withinglon, Ebenezer, 77, 240 ; John, 7 ;
Thomas, 301.
Woburn, 8, 78, 135, 191, 247, 274, 457,.
528, 366, 678.
Wolcot, Erasius, 239; Oliver, 180, 332.
Wood Creek, 717.
Wood, Aaron, 8; Alpheus, 610; Ebene-
zer, 621 ; Ephraim, Jr. 9, 610; James,
14, 82 ; John. 223, 436, 532 ; Capt. John,
248; Jonathan, 628; Joseph, 615; Na-
than. 14, 82, 277, 325.
Woodbri.lge, Benjamin Ruggles, 327, 338,
339, 370, 445, 583, 383; Enoch, 432;
Jerathmiel, 276, 427, 446, 471, 474, 476,
485, 488, 499, 563, 573; Jahliel, 448,
453; Timothy, 36.
Woodbury, Andrew, 8, 62,411, 615; Pe-
ter, G55 ; Samuel, 679
Woods, Henr}-, 610 ; James, 277.
Woodstock, 14, 82, 222.
Woodward, Richard, 601, 605.
Wool, 496.
Woolcombers' ComlTS, C4.
Woolson, Ephiaim, 587.
Woolwich, 13, 83. 139. 279, 360, 459.
Wooster, Gen. 372, 373.
Worcester, 13, 41, 30, 82, 159, 163, 170,
177, 212, 214, 222, 223, 236, 276, 307,
336, 351, 398, 414, 422, 429, 458, 500,
505, 507, 510, 513, 516, 517, 318, 522,
325, 527, 529, 394, 627, 628, 633, 634,
636, 643.
Worcester County, 7, 10, 13. 23, 50, 62,
67, 74, 82, 140, 130, 160, 177, 256, 276,
290, 305, 313, 336, 337, 351, 3.52, 397,
407, 420, 421, 422, 423, 428, 429, 430,
431, 458, 459, 479, 566, 627-G52, 756.
Worthington, 11, 80, 177, 276,, 337, 458.
Worlhington, John, 36.
Wrcntham, 7, 77, 176, 222, 256, 273, 337,
352, 4.57.
Wright, Phineas, 11.275; Zaccheus,9, 610.
Wyer, William, 610.
Wvman. Jabish. 678; James, 667; Na-
thaniel, 679 ; Ross, 640 ; Samuel, 8, 78,
191,474,610; Capt. 578.
Yarmouth, 12,81,278,458.
York, 12,81, 158,159,279,411.412,458.
York County, 12, 141, 411, 412, 436, 459,
755.
Young, William, 628, 631, G51.
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