UNIVERSITY
OF PITTSBURGH
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LIBRARY
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- Isla-wA. Colony)
KECOEDS
OF THE
STATE OF RHODE ISLAND
AND ,
PROVIDENCE PLANTATIONS
I N
NEW ENGLAND.
PRINTED BY ORDER OF THE GENERAL ASSEMBLY,
EDITED BY
JOHN RUSSELL BARTLETT,
SECRETARY OP STATE.
VOL. VIII.
1776 ™ 1779.
PRO VIDENCE:
COOKE, JACKSON & CO., PRINTERS TO THE STATE,
1863.
v.*
PREFACE.
The eighth volume of the Colonial Records embraces but
a little more than three years of our history. It commences
with the October session of the General Assembly, 1776,
and closes with the year 1779. The editor was desirous to
close the publication of the work with this volume ; but so
voluminous are the proceedings of the General Assembly
during the revolutionary period, that it has been found im-
possible. In the year 1777, there were eleven sessions of
the General Assembly ; in 1778 and 1779, seven each, so
that the present volume contains the proceedings of a public
nature of twenty-five sessions. The volume is also rich with
the correspondence of the period, and includes letters of
Washington, Greene, Sullivan and other generals of the
revolution. J. R. B.
Providence, January, 1863.
RHODE ISLAND RECORDS.
RHODE ISLAND RECORDS
Proceedings of the General Assembly, held for the State of Rhode
Island and Providence Plantations, at /South Kingstown, on the
last Monday of October, 1776.
The Hon. Nicholas Cooke, Governor.
The Hon. William Bradford, Deputy Governor.
ASSISTANTS.
John Collins, Esq., Peter Phillips, Esq.,
Simeon Potter, Esq., William Potter, Esq.,
John Jepson, Esq., Thomas Church, Esq.
James Arnold, Jr., Esq.,
\
Netvport.
Mr. John Wanton,
Mr. John Turner,
Col. George Sears,
Gideon Wanton, Esq.,
Mr. Thomas Freebody,
Col. Joseph Belcher.
Providence.
Mr. John Brown,
Mr. John Smith,
Theodore Foster, Esq.
DEPUTIES.
Wanvick.
William Greene, Esq.,
Mr. Jacob Greene,
Charles Holden, Jr., Esq.,
Mr. Thomas Holden.
Westerly.
Maj. Gen. Joshua Babcock,
Col. Joseph Noyes.
North Kingstotvn.
John Northup, Esq.,
Maj. Sylvester Gardner.
RECORDS OF THE STATE OE RHODE ISLAND
[Odf,
DEPUTIES.
South Kingstown.
Mr. Immanuel Case,
Daniel Rodman, Esq,
Edst Greenwich.
Job Comstock, Esq.,
Benjamin Tillinghast, Esq.
Jamestown.
Capt. Samuel Can",
Benjamin Underwood, Esq.
Smithfield.
Daniel Mo wry, Jr., Esq,
Scituate.
William West, Esq.,
Mr. Christopher Potter*
Glocesta\
Richard Steere, Esq.
Charlestown.
Gideon Hoxsie, Esq.,
Joseph Stanton, Jr., Esq.
West Greenwich-.
Mr. Samuel Hopkins, Jr.,
Mr. John Kinyon.
Coventry,
Mr. Ephraim Westcoat,
Mr. John Greene.
Ezceta\
Col. George Pierce,
Jeffrey Willcox, Esq.
Middlctowih
Col. George Irish,
Mr. Nicholas East on.
Bristol
Col. Nathaniel Pearce.
Little Compton.
Mr. Perez Richmond,
Mr. Nathaniel Church.
Warren.
Mr. Cromel Child,
Col. Sylvester Child.
Cumberland.
Mr. Elisha Waterman,
Richmond.
Mr. Nathan Kinyon,
Mr. Simeon Clarke, Ji\
Cranston.
Mr. William Field,
Mr. John King, Jr.
Ilophinton.
Mr. John Larkin,
Thomas Wells, Esq,
Johnston.
Caleb Harris, Esq.3
Abraham Belknap, Esq.
North Providence.
Mn Joseph Olney,
Mr. Benjamin SheppardsoH.
Barringtoih
Mr. Moses Tyler*
The Hon. Metcalfe Bowler, Esq., speaker ; Josias Lyndon,
Esq., clerk.
1776.] AND PROVIDENCE PLANTATIONS.
Henry Ward, Esq., secretary.
Henry Marchant, Esq., attorney general
Joseph Clarke, Esq., general treasurer;
JUSTICES OP THE SUPERIOR COURT.
Metcalfe Bowler, Esq., chief; William Greene, Esq., seo
oncl ; Shearjashub Bourn, Esq., third ; Jabez Bowen, Esq.,
fourth ; and Thomas Wells, Esq., fifth.
JUSTICES OP THE COURT OF COMMON PLEAS, POR NEWPORT COUNTY.
George Hazard, Esq., chief; John Jepson, Esq., second ;
John Barker, Esq., third ; Thomas Church, Esq., fourth ; and
Benjamin Underwood, Esq., fifth.
JUSTICES OF THE COURT OF COMMON PLEAS*, FOR PROVIDENCE COUNTY.
Thomas Greene, Esq., chief; Richard Steere, Esq., second ;
Rufus Hopkins, Esq., third ; Jeremiah Whipple, Esq., fourth ;
and Daniel Mowry, Jr., Esq., fifth.
•JUSTICES OF THE COURT OF COMMON PLEAS, FOR KINGS COUNTY.
William Potter, Esq., chief; Sylvester Robinson, Esq., sec-
ond ; John Northup, Esq., third ; Carder Hazard, Esq., fourth ;
and Joseph Hoxsie, Esq., fifth.
JUSTICES OF THE COURT OF COMMON PLEAS, FOR BRISTOL COUNTY.
Nathaniel Fales, Esq., chief; John Child, Esq., second;
James Brown, Esq., third ; Joseph Reynolds, Esq., fourth ;
and Josiah Humphreys, Esq., fifth.
JUSTICES OF THE COURT OF COMMON PLEAS, FOR KENT COUNTY,
Philip Greene, Esq., chief; James Arnold, Jr., Esq., sec-
ond ; Gideon Mumford, Esq., third ; John Low, Esq., fourth ;
Benjamin Tillinghast, Esq., fifth.
RECORDS OF THE STATE OF RHODE ISLAND [OCT.
SHERIFFS OF THE SEVERAL COUNTIES.
Newport county. Bristol county.
Jabez Champlin, Esq. Richard Smith, Esq.
Providence county. Kent county.
Paul Tew, Esq. Henry Rice, Esq.
Kings county.
Beriah Brown, Esq.
JUDGE OF THE COURT OF ADMIRALTY.
John Foster, Esq., judge of the court erected for the trial
of maritime causes, in and throughout the state.
FIELD OFFICERS FOR THE STATE'S BRIGADE, IN THE SEVERAL COUNTIES.
Joshua Babcock, Esq., major general of the militia.
Officers of the First Regiment.
Newport county — George Irish, Esq., colonel ; Geurge
Sears, Esq., lieutenant colonel ; Job Almy, 2d, Esq., major.
Providence county — Jabez Bowem Esq., colonel ; Amos
Atwell, Esq., lieutenant colonel ; Ebenezer Thompson, Esq.,
major.
Kings county — Jos. Noyes, Esq., colonel ; Jesse Champlin,
Esq., lieutenant colonel ; Jesse Maxson, Esq., major.
Bristol county — Nath'l Martin, Esq., colonel ; Thos. Gray,
Esq., lieutenant colonel ; Benjamin Bosworth, Esq., major.
Kent county — John Waterman, Esq., colonel ; John Low,
Esq., lieutenant colonel ; Thomas Tillinghast, Esq., major.
Officers of the Second Reg intent.
Newport county — John Cooke, Esq., colonel ; David Hil-
yarcl, Esq., lieutenant colonel ; Pardon Gray, Esq., major.
Providence county — Chad Brown, Esq., colonel ; Elisha
Mowry, Jr., Esq., lieutenant colonel; John Fiske, Esq., major.
1776.] AND PROVIDENCE PLANTATIONS. 7
Kings county — Robert Brown, Esq., colonel ; George
Pierce, Esq. lieutenant colonel ; Charles Dyer, Esq., major.
Kent county — Nathaniel Brown, Esq., colonel ; Archi-
bald Kasson, Esq., lieutenant colonel ; Yelverton Waite,
Esq., major.
Officers of the Third Regiment.
Providence county — William West, Esq., colonel ; John
Colwell, Esq., lieutenant colonel; Joseph Knight, Esq.,
major.
It is voted and resolved, that the butter now stored in
Providence, in the hands of Capt. John Updike, James
Black and Arthur Fenner, Jr., belonging to Samuel Star-
buck, of Nantucket, be delivered to said Starbuck ; and that
the town of Providence use their best endeavors to discover
the perpetrators of the damages done to the said Starbuck's
vessel, in order that they may be brought to justice.
It is voted and resolved, that Mr. Rouse J. Helme be, and
hereby is, appointed to assist the secretary in drawing up
the acts and orders of the General Assembly, for the press,
and procure them to be printed ; and that he give his
constant attendance, and perform the business as soon as
possible.
Whereas, the captains and subaltern officers, belonging to
the brigade raised by this state preferred their petition to this
Assembly, setting forth, that, animated with an ardent desire
of serving the state of Rhode Island, they have actually been
at considerable cost and expense, in raising soldiers to serve
in defence of said state ; and although pecuniary views were
not the leading motives which induced them to engage with
such readiness and zeal, in the cause of American freedom,
yet they humbly conceive themselves to be entitled to some
compensation for their labor, cost and expense ; but so far
from meeting with the deserved encouragement, they have
8 RECORDS OF THE STATE OF RHODE ISLAND [OCT,
not had the satisfaction of being paid according to the pro-
vision made by the Most Honorable the Continental Con*
gress ; which, since they have been put upon the Conti-
nental establishment, and bear Continental commissions, they
think themselves justly entitled to ; and more especially, as
they are liable, whenever called upon, to march to the as-
sistance of any of the United States ; and thereupon prayed
this Assembly, that they might be entitled to, and receive
the same pay and allowance as is made to officers of equal
rank in the service of the United States :
And this Assembly taking into consideration the subject
matter in the said petition contained, and having maturely
considered the same, —
It is thereupon voted and resolved, that the prayer of said
petition be, and the same is hereby, granted.
It is voted and resolved, that the act of Assembly made
and passed at their session in October, A. D. 1775, allowing
the inhabitants of Nantucket to purchase and ship any par-
ticular articles of provision and necessaries from any town
in this state, upon the conditions in said act mentioned,
be, and the same is hereby, repealed, and rendered null
and void, for the future.
In Council, was read the return of Andrew Boyd, clerk
of the company of Kentish Guards, choosing Christopher
Greene, of Warwick, son of Nathaniel, second lieutenant of
said company, in the room of Thomas Holden, who refused ;
which being considered by the Council, —
It is voted and resolved, that the said choice be, and the
same is hereby, approved.
It is voted and resolved, that each and every member of
the committee of safety be, and they are hereby, appointed
and fully empowered, to employ, and fully empower, suita-
ble persons to apprehehend all such persons as have already,
or shall hereafter desert from the Rhode Island brigade, and
to return all such deserters to the said brigade ; and that all
such persons, as shall be employed, as aforesaid, are hereby
1776.] AND PROVIDENCE PLANTATIONS. (.)
empowered to demand .and take sufficient aid to perform
what they shall be employed to do, as aforesaid.
That the said committee of safety pay and discharge all
such charges as shall arise in the above mentioned affair.
And that the said committee be likewise empowered to
take up, and apprehend all deserters from the Continental
troops, who shall come within this state.
And it is further voted and resolved, that every captain
of any private vessel of war, or trading vessel, within this
state, who shall take on board and carry off any such de-
serter, shall be subject to and pay a fine of £50, lawful
money, to and for the use of this state, for each and every
deserter he shall so carry off; to be recovered by bill, plaint
or information, in any court of record, within this state.
It is voted and resolved, that the captain of Fort Liberty
be under the command of the commander-in-chief of the
two regiments stationed upon Rhode Island.
It is voted and resolved, that, of the two colonels who
command the two new regiments lately raised and stationed
on Rhode Island, he who has the eldest commission shall
take the command.
Whereas, Mr. Ichabod Potter preferred a petition to this
Assembly, setting forth, that, in the year 1775, he enter-
tained a large number of the troops belonging to this state,
stationed on Rhode Island, by order of the commanding offi-
cer, and charged ninepence per meal ; and that the commit-
tee, who audited and adjusted the accounts, allowed him but
sixpence per meal ; a sum by no means adequate ; and
whereby he is greatly injured, and remains a sufferer, unless
this Assembly will be pleased to make him the farther al-
lowance whereof he hath been so deprived ; and the prem-
ises being duly considered, —
It is voted and resolved, that the petitioner be allowed
and paid threepence per meal, over and above what he has
already received, for every meal he supplied to the soldiers
of this state.
10 RECORDS OF THE STATE OF RHODE ISLAXD [OCT.
It is voted and resolved, that Mr. John Brown be, and he
is hereby, appointed to inquire into the affair of the prizes,
taken by the two row galleys in the harbor of Newport, and
see that the government's part of the prizes be paid into the
general treasury.
And that this state give up their right to Capt. Grimes, of
the galley Spitfire, and the crew thereof, in the three an-
chors and cables by them taken up in the harbor of New-
port, to be divided amongst them, agreeably to the rules
provided in such cases ; and that they apply to Col. Daniel
Tillinghast, for the same.
It is voted and resolved, that Mr. John Smith be, and he
is hereby, appointed to sell, at public vendue, all the effects
of George Rome and Charles Dudley, in the possession of
this state, and receive the money arising thereby, and pay
the same into the general treasury ; excepting the screws
and bars, and the effects in Mr. Nathan Miller's hands.
It is voted and resolved, that Josias Lyndon, Esq., be, and
he is hereby, appointed to sell, at public vendue, all the ef-
fects of Charles Dudley, in the hands of Mr. Nathan Miller,
and render an account thereof, to the next session of Assembly.
It is voted and resolved, that two regiments be immedi-
ately raised by this state, agreeably to the requisition of the
Continental Congress.
Both houses being resolved into a grand committee, made
choice of the following gentlemen as officers in the two bat-
talions or regiments, to be raised by this state, agreeably to
requisition of Congress :
Officers chosen for the First Battalia]}.
Field officers — James Mitchell Vamum, Esq., colonel ;
Adam Comstock, Esq., lieutenant colonel ; Henry Sher-
burne, Esq., major.
Captains — Ebenezer Flagg, Silas Talbot, Thomas Cole,
John Singer Dexter, Simeon Martin, Jonathan Wallen.
First lieutenants — Joseph Arnold, William Belcher, Timo-
1776.] AND PROVIDENCE PLANTATIONS. 11
thy Lock, Samuel Bissell, Wilson Rawson, William Potter,
John Hand v, Thomas Noyes.
Second lieutenants — Ichabod Prentice, John Chapman,
John Remington.
Ensigns — Zephaniah Brown.
Staff officers — Quartermaster, Clarke Brown.
Officers chosen for the Second Battalion.
Field officers — Daniel Hitchcock, Esq., colonel ; Israel
Angell, Esq., lieutenant colonel; Christopher Smith, Esq.,
major.
Captains — Jeremiah Olney, Wm. Tew, Coggeshall Olney,
Ephraim Bowen, William Bradford, Jr., John Carr, Abime-
lech Riggs.
First lieutenants — Stephen Olney, William Allen, William
Littlefield, Gilbert Grant, Joseph Whitmarsh, Daniel Pearce,
Amos Crandall, Micah Moulton.
Second lieutenants — Thomas Hughes, Duty Jerrald.
Ensigns — Ebenezer West, Holliman Potter, Thomas Wat-
erman, Oliver Jenckes, Richard Hunniwell.
Staff officers — Quartermaster, Cyprian Sterry.
Both houses being still in a grand committee, chose the
following officers, to wit :
Commissioners, Surgeons, dec, chosen.
Joseph Clarke, Esq., appointed commissioner of the loan
office, for this state.
Stephen Mumford, of East Greenwich, is appointed com-
missary of prisoners of war, within this state, agreeably to
requisition of Congress.
Hon. William Bradford, Esq., Jonathan Arnold and Wm
Bowen, physicians and surgeons, are appointed examiners of
surgeons and surgeons' mates, for the army and navy.
It is voted and resolved, that all those suspected persons,
who by order of Assembly were removed from the town of
Newport, into other towns in this state, have liberty to re-
12 RECORDS OF THE STATE OF RHODE ISLAND [OCT.
turn to their own homes, as soon as they please ; first pay-
ing all the charges that have arisen from the time of their
removal until their return ; except Christopher Hargill, who
not being able to pay the charge at present, is to give his
note therefor.
Whereas. Messrs. Samuel Fowler and Gideon Wanton
laid before this Assembly the following report and account,
to wit:
RepoH of the Committee relative to Damages, &c.
Newport, October 24, 1776.
We, the subscribers, being, by the Honorable General Assembly, appointed a com-
mittee, at the last June session, to ascertain the damages that Joseph Crandall has
sustained, by being kept out of his house, the same being improved by the government,
have, agreeably to said appointment, viewed the premises ; and it is our opinion, that
he ought to be allowed $20, yearly, for the time it shall be improved.
SAMUEL FOWLER,
GIDEON WANTON.
Whereas, Mr. Jonathan Niles presented unto this Assembly
an account, by him charged against the state, for the time,
horse-hire and expenses of himself and aid, in taking up,
conveying to Providence and committing to jail, Richard
Beal, Thomas Vernon and John Nicoll, in consquence of
their having broken their parole ; and the said account
being duly examined, —
It is voted and resolved, that the same be, and hereby is,
allowed ; and that the amount thereof, being £2, lawful
money, be paid to the said Jonathan Niles, out of the gen-
eral treasury.
It is voted and resolved, that the committee of safety pro-
vide clothing and other necessaries, for the two battalions to
be immediately raised by this state ; that His Honor the
Governor be requested to supply the said committee with
cloth, out of the cargo of the prize ship lately brought into
Providence, for the purpose, aforesaid ; and that the said
committee take all the arms belonging to the state, and get
them repaired in the several counties.
It is voted and resolved, that the thanks of this Assembly
1776.] AND PROVIDENCE PLANTATIONS. 13
be given to the Hon. Stephen Hopkins, Esq., for his good
services, as a delegate for this state, in the Continental Con-
gress ; and that he be requested to attend the business of
Congress as soon as he can conveniently leave his family.
It is voted and resolved, that Mr. Caleb Harris be chosen
inspector of gunpowder ; and that Messrs. Daniel Mowry,
John Brown, Daniel Rodman, David Harris and Rouse J.
Helme be, and they are hereby, appointed a committee, to
prepare a bill to be passed into an act, regulating inspecting
the powder, receiving the same, &c.
And that they also prepare a bill, laying a penalty for
count erfeitiiiff the bills or notes of the Continental loan
o
office.
And also draught a letter to be sent to His Excellency
General Washington, respecting the filling the offices of the
two battalions to be immediately raised in this state.
In Council was read the return of the names of the
officers chosen for the company of Scituate Hunters, viz. :
Joseph Kimball, captain; Gideon Cornell, first lieuten-
ant ; Jonathan Smith, second lieutenant ; Bertram Rounds,
ensign.
Which being considered by the Council, —
It is voted and resolved, that the said officers be, and
they are hereby, approved.
It is voted and resolved, that the soldiers enlisted in Col.
Cooke's regiment, be allowed wages and billeting, from the
time of their enlistment ; and also the charges of marching
to Newport.
It is voted and resolved, that Stephen Wigneron be
chosen surgeon and Jonathan Pierce armorer, of Col. John
Cooke's regiment.
It is voted and resolved, that the town of Newport pro-
vide blankets for the soldiers raised by said town, as their
part of Col. Cooke's regiment, in six days from the rising of
this Assembly, or pay the fine, according to law.
It is voted and resolved, that Messrs. Joseph Stanton and
John Northup deliver to the county of Providence the sur-
14 RECORDS OF THE STATE OF RHODE ISLAND [OCT.
plusage of salt in their hands ; the said comity of Provi-
dence paying the charge of transportation.
It is voted and resolved, that Samuel Chace, Esq., notary
public for the county of Providence, be forthwith brought
before this Assembly, to answer for his conduct in making
protests as notary public, as aforesaid, against the captors
of certain vessels and their cargoes, and the condemnation
of the same, agreeably to the resolves of Congress and laws
of this state.
And it is further resolved, that the sheriff of the county
of Kings county, or his lawful deputy, be, and he is hereby,
directed to apprehend the said Samuel Chace, and to call on
the secretary and receive of him the original act of Assem-
bly, establishing a court for the trial of prize causes within
this state, and a copy of the protests made before him, by
any of the persons that have been captured, and brought
into this state.
It is voted and resolved, that the last Thursday of this
instant, November, be observed as a day of public fasting
and prayer ; and that all servile labor, recreation and sports
of all kinds, be forbidden to be used within this state on
said day ; and that His Honor the Governor be requested
to issue a proclamation, accordingly.
Whereas, the committee appointed to sign the last emis-
sion of lawful money bills, presented unto this Assembly the
following report and account, to wit :
Report of the Committee, appointed by the General Assembly to sign
the Lawful Money Bills of Credit.
To the Honorable General Assembly of the state of Rhode Island and Providenee
Plantations, to be holden at South Kingstown, on the last Monday in October, A.
J). 1776.
In pursuance of an act passed at the session held in September last, for emitting' the
the sum of $66,670, we, the subscribers, have signed the bills ordered to be emitted*
consisting of the following denominations, to wit :
700 bills of thirty dollars each, is $21,000
600 " "twenty " " 12,000
667 " "ten " " 6,670
600 " "eight " " 4,800
1776.] AND PROVIDENCE PLANTATIONS. L5
600 bills of seven dollars each, is £4,200
600 " "six " " 3,G00
GOO " "five " " 3,000
GOO " " four " " 2,400
GOO " " three " " 1,800
GOO " "two " " 1,200
2,000 " " one " " 2,000
4,000 " "half " " 2,000
4,000 " " one-quarter dollar each, is 2,000
4,000 " "one-eighth " " 500
8,000 " " one-sixteenth " " 500
$GG,G70
All which, we have delivered unto the general treasurer, and taken his receipt there,
for. We have also registered the order and manner of signing the same, in the eighth
book of the Public Records, in the secretary's office.
We submit this report, and are Your Honors' most humble servants,
JOHN G. WANTON, JAMES CONGDON, 3d,
THOMAS GREENE, JOSEPH CLARKE,
JOHN DEXTER, JONATHAN J. HASZARD.
Whereas, James Smith, James Stable and Henry Barnes
preferred their petition to this Assembly, setting forth that
with the deepest concern they find themselves, after having
been captured and brought into this state, unhappily con-
sidered as enemies to the rights, liberties and privileges of
America, and detained as prisoners ; that having neither in
thought, word or deed, injured the cause of liberty, or joined,
adopted or approved of, the present measures, they humbly
conceive and pray that the wonted justice, mercy and hu-
manity of this Assembly, will be extended to them, their
fellow-captured captains, mates, passengers and apprentices,
in permitting them to purchase, fit and victual a ship to pro-
ceed to England, to their friends, families and connexions ;
they giving their most sacred parole that they will not, di-
rectly nor indirectly, aid, assist, counsel or advise, against
this or any other of the United States of America ; which
petition being duly considered, —
It is voted and resolved, that the same be, and hereby is,
granted ; that the petitioners have liberty of purchasing a
suitable vessel, not exceeding the burthen of one hundred
and fifty tons, for transporting themselves to Great Britain ;
and to purchase* the necessary provisions and stores for the
16 RECORDS OF THE STATE OF RHODE ISLAND [OCT.
voyage, under the inspection of Messrs. John Jenckes, John
Wanton and John Brown ; and to proceed to any part of this
state, to purchase the same, under the inspection, aforesaid.
And that two of the captains and five mates, who have
last arrived within this state, be detained, to exchange for
that number of masters and mates belonging to the United
States of America, who are now prisoners on board the
British ship of war the Syren, commanded by Capt. Tobias
Furneaux.
Whereas, Mr. John Waite exhibited unto this Assembly
an account, by him charged against the state, for cutting
and engraving two setts of escutcheons, for the backs and
borders of the lawful money bills ordered to be printed ; and
the said account being duly examined, —
It is voted and resolved, that £7, lawful money, thereof,
and no more, be allowed ; and that said sum be paid the said
John Waite, out of the general treasury.
It is voted and resolved, that Metcalfe Bowler, Esq., be ap-
pointed paymaster to the regiment under the command of
Ccl. John Cooke ; and that, upon the several captains mak-
ing out their pay-rolls, certified by the colonel, he pay the
wages monthly.
It is voted and resolved, that His Honor the Governor be
requested to exchange two of the captains and five mates,
who were last brought into this state, and twenty-four sea-
men, for the two captains, five mates and twenty-four
seamen, proposed to be exchanged by Capt, Furneaux, of
the Sj^ren British ship of war.
It is voted and resolved, that Messrs. John Sands, Edward
Sands, Jr. and Simon Ray Littlefield, have liberty to bring
any provisions, hides or other articles, from the island of
Block Island, to any part of this state ; and to carry on said
island, leather, cloth, or such other necessaries as they may
stand in need of, for their own consumption ; and that God-
frey Trim and John Rose, Jr., be employed by them as boat-
men, in transporting said articles, to and from said island ;
any law to the contrary hereof, in any wise, notwithstanding.
1770] AND PBOTODENCI PLANTATIONS. 17
It is voted and resolved, that Metcalfe Bowler, Esq., Dr.
Stephen Wigneron and Thomas Church, Esq., be, and they
are hereby, appointed a committee, to procure a suitable
house, on Rhode Island, lor a hospital lor the troops sta-
tioned on said island ; and that the sick in the house at
present improved as a hospital, be immediately removed,
and the said house he cleansed as soon as possible.
Whereas, Mr. Thomas Hazard Potter presented unto this
Assembly, an account by him charged against the state, for
liis time, horse-hire and expenses, in carrying a letter from
South Kingstown to Providence, to the Governor and Com-
mittee appointed to act in the recess of the Assembly, re-
specting Capt. Wallace's landing at Point Judith ; and the
said account being duly examined, —
It is voted and resolved, that the same be, and hereby is,
allowed ; and that the amount thereof, being £1 16s., lawful
money, be paid unto the said Thomas Hazard Potter, out of
the general treasury.
It is voted and resolved, that $20 be allowed by this state,
as an additional bounty to each of the non-commissioned offi-
cers and soldiers, who shall enlist to serve during the war.
Whereas, Mr. Edward Brickwood preferred a petition to
this Assembly, setting forth, that on his passage from Ber-
muda to Antigua and London, in the brig Fanny, he was
captured and brought into this port ; that he was bound to
England to transact some particular business, and intended
returning immediately to Bermuda or Antigua, where he
hath an interest ; and that he is essentially suffering in his
concerns, by the misfortune of being prevented attending
thereto, as well as prosecuting his intended voyage to Great
Britain ; and thereupon prayed this Assembly to grant him
permission to return to his business, and prosecute his in-
tended voyage to Great Britain, by way of France, Holland,
Bermuda, or the West Indies, with his apparel, &c. ; and the
premises being duly considered by this Assembly, —
It is voted and resolved, that the prayer of said petition
be, and the same is hereby, granted,
18 RECORDS OF THE STATE OF RHODE ISLAND [OCT.
It is voted and resolved, that His Honor the Governor,
and Mr. John Jenckes, draw out of the general treasury, the
sum of .£600, lawful money, towards fitting out a vessel, or-
dered by this General Assembly, to fetch salt for the use of
this state.
It is voted and resolved, that John Cole and Jonathan Ar-
nold, Esqs., be, and they are hereby, appointed a committee,
to revise the act establishing a maritime court, for the trial
of prize causes, within this state ; and that they make report
of the same, to this Assembly, at the next session.
Whereas, Richard Aylsworth, Stephen Spencer, Christo-
pher Bentley and Abel Shearman, preferred a petition to
this Assembly, setting forth, that on the 14th day of Febru-
ary last past, they were captured on board the sloop Dolphin,
in the service of this state, by the Portland man of war, and
carried to Antigua ; from whence they obtained a passage
to Nova Scotia, and from thence home to East Greenwich ;
which was attended with great cost and charges, which they
have been obliged, since their return, to re-pay by their
daily labor, and whereby their families are deprived of their
necessary support ; and thereupon besought this Assembly
to commiserate their distressed situation, and order their
wages and expenses to be paid them.
[The total amount allowed, was £55 19,9. 7d.~\
An Act for the inspection of gunpowder, manufactured
within this state.
Be it enacted by this General Assembly, and by the au-
thority thereof, it is enacted, that if any person or persons,
within this state, shall vend or expose to sale any gunpow-
der, manufactured within the same, unless said gunpowder
be packed in a good dry cask, marked with the two first
letters of the manufacturer's name, and hath been examined
and approved by the inspector of gunpowder, for said state,
and by him marked with the letters U. S. A., and such other
marks as are necessary to distinguish the several sorts of gun-
powder ; the person or persons so offending, shall forfeit and
1770] AND PROVIDENCE PLANTATIONS. 19
pay £G, lawful money, for every cask so exposed to sale ; to be
recovered by bill, plaint or information, upon conviction be-
fore any court of record within this state ; which forfeiture,
shall one moiety thereof be given to the informer, and the
other be paid into the general treasury of this state.
And be it further enacted by the authority, aforesaid, that
the said inspector be paid out of the general treasury nine-
pence, lawful money, for every cask so marked and in-
spected by him.
An Act for punishing persons counterfeiting the bills or
notes of either of the Continental loan offices, within the
United States of America.
Be it enacted by this General Assembly, and by the au-
thority thereof, it is enacted, that if any person or persons
within this state, shall counterfeit the bills or notes of either
of the Continental loan offices, within the United States of
America, or utter or pass the same, knowing them to be
such, and be thereof duly convicted, shall suffer the pains of
death.
It is voted and resolved, that the Hon. William Bradford,
Esq., be, and he is hereby, chosen a delegate to represent
this state in the Continental Congress.
It is voted and resolved, that the lot on which the old
court house, in the county of Kings county, stands, and the
said house, be sold by the sheriff of said county, at public
vendue, to the highest bidder, on the 2d day of November
next, at two o'clock, in the afternoon ; and that the general
treasurer give a warranty deed of the same, to the purchaser,
in behalf of this state.
It is voted and resolved, that Jesse Burdick be appointed
captain; Weight Burdick, lieutenant ; and Phineas Maxson,
ensign, of the third company of militia, in the town of Hop-
kinton.
It is voted and resolved, that the report of the committee
who were appointed to estimate the damages done by the
soldiers, to the house of Capt. Joshua Ingraham, be ac-
20 RECORDS OE THE STATE OF RHODE ISLA&0 OcT,
cepted ; and that the further sum of £8 2s., lawful money,
be allowed, and paid out of the general treasury, to the said
Joshua Ingraham.
Whereas, the commissions for private tessels of war, and
letters of marque, sent by Congress, for the use of the in-
habitants of this state, are all made use of; and commis-
sions will be wanted for private vessels of war, and letters of
marque, now fitting out from this state, before they can be
procured from Congress ; —
It is therefore voted and resolved, that His Honor the
Governor be requested to grant commissions to any vessels
fitted out, as aforesaid, until commissions can be procured
from Congress ; and that instructions be given, and bond
taken in the secretary's office, agreeably to the resolutions
of the Honorable the Continental Congress-
It is voted and resolved, that Mr, Jonathan Haszard be,
and he is hereby, appointed paymaster to the first battalion,
and that Charles Holden, Esq., be paymaster to the second
battalion, ordered to be raised by this Assembly, to serve
during the war.
It is voted and resolved, that each of the paymasters be
furnished by the general treasurer of this state, with
$10,000, to pay the bounty allowed by this state, to the
troops that shall enlist to serve during the war ; and that
they, each of them, give bond, with sufficient sureties, to the
general treasurer, in the sum of $20,000.
If is voted and resolved, that the several committees of
safety lie, and they are hereby, empowered to enlist men in
their respective counties in this state, to serve during the
Avar; and that they pay them the bounty allowed by Con-
gress and this state.
It is voted and resolved, that a committee be appointed
to inquire into the state of all guns which are claimed by
soldiers, and who have received no pay for the same, which
are now in use in the army, or have been detained from
them, and make report to this Assembly, at the next ses-
sion ; and that Peter Phillips, Esq., with the former commit-
L776] A.\'D PROVIDENCE PLASTATIOKS, 2i
tee of Safety, be, and they are hereby, appointed a committee
for that purpose ; and that they advertise in the public
newspapers, in this state, the time and place of meeting'
they shall appoint lor that purpose.
It is voted and resolved, that Mr. Jonathan Haszard and
Charles Ilolden, Esq., be, and they are hereby, appointed to
proceed, with the greatest despatch, to His Excellency
General Washington, with a letter to him from this state,
and the commissions for the officers appointed by this As-
sembly ; and that they perform the same without any ex-
pense to the state.
It is voted and resolved, that His Honor the Deputy Gov-
ernor, Messrs. John Collins, John Brown, Job Comstock and
Daniel Rodman, be, and they are hereby, appointed a com-
mittee, to take into consideration the circumstances of the
several towns in this state, and make report to this As-
sembly at the next session, how much the proportion each
town, under the present state of affairs, ought in justice to
differ from the proportion of the last estimate., either in the
increase of the ratables or diminution thereof, in case a tax
should be then voted.
It is voted and resolved, that the form of the enlistment
for the soldiers in the two battalions now ordered to be
raised, be as follows, viz. ;
Form of Enlistment for the Soldieri,
" I, the subscriber, hereby solemnly engage and enlist my-
self, as a soldier, in the battalions of the state of Rhode
Island, &c«, in the service of the United States of America,
and in the pay of the said United States, from the day of my
enlistment, for and during the present war with Great
Britain, unless sooner discharged by the General Congress
of said United States ; and I hereby promise to submit my-
self to all the orders and regulations of the army of the
United States of America ; and faithfully to observe and
22 RECORDS OF THE STATE OF RHODE ISLAND [OcT.
obey all such orders, as I shall receive, from time to time,
from my officers."
It is voted and resolved, that the bounty on saltpetre be
continued until the 1st day of May next,
That Peter Turner be inspector of saltpetre for the county
of Bristol; and that the inspectors, heretofore appointed,
continue in their said offices, until further orders from this
Assembly,
It is voted and resolved, that the judge of the court
erected for the trial of maritime causes, receive only £6, for
the condemnation of any vessel or cargo, brought within
this state ; any law to the contrary hereof, in any wise, not-
withstanding.
Resolved, that those town officers, within the several
towns in this state, who have neglected to subscribe the
test, as by a law of this state heretofore provided, be, and
they are hereby, disqualified from serving in their respec-
tive offices in future ; and that the several towns within this
state be, and they are hereby, empowered and enjoined to
call town meetings, as soon as may be, for the purpose of
electing persons to such offices as are become vacant by the
aforesaid disqualification.
And it is further resolved, that this resolve be printed, as
soon as may be, in the Newport Mercury and Providence
Gazette.
It is voted and resolved, that His Honor the Governor, the
Deputy Governor, and members of the General Councilor any
five of them, together with the deputies belonging to the re-
spective towns in this state, or any six of them, be, and they
are hereby, appointed a committee, to act and transact all such
business as the exigency of public affairs, during the recess
of the Assembly may require ; and to advise His Honor
therein ; and that all orders by them made and issued, and
all other their transactions, be laid before this Assembly at
the next session.
1776.] AND PROVIDENCE PLANTATIONS. 23
It is voted and resolved, that the draught of a letter to
His Excellency General Washington, laid before this Assem-
bly, by the committee appointed for that purpose, he, and
the same is hereby, approved ; and that a fair copy be made
and signed by His Honor the Governor, and forwarded to
His Excellency, by Messrs. Hazard and Holden.:|:
It is voted and resolved, that His Honor the Governor,
John Cole and Jonathan Arnold, Esqs., be, and they are
hereby, appointed a committee, to draught an act, regulate
ing the loan office, within this state ; and that they imme-
diately take bonds of Joseph Clarke, Esq., keeper of said
office, in the sum of £20,000, with sufficient sureties, and
lodge the same in the secretary's office ; and that the said
Joseph immediately after his giving bond, as aforesaid, re-
ceive any moneys that may be brought him into his office,
agreeably to the resolves of Congress.
Voted and resolved, that the following accounts be paid
out of the general treasury :
Bills to be Paul
£ s. d.
.Joseph Brown, for attendance upon the committee appointed to act in the
recess of the General Assembly 7 00 00
John Collins, for his expenses in going to, and returning from, Philadelphia,
on public business 70 10 00
Ilolderby Langford, for measuring a quantity of salt, delivered for the use of
several towns in the state 18 03
Jonathan Niles, for expenses in committing certain persons to jail who had
broken their parole 2 00 00
Mrs. Mary Dyer, for billeting six soldiers 3 00 00
The committee who signed certain lawful money bills, emitted by the state. 50 00 00
Beriah Brown, for expenses for warning the members of the General As-
sembly to meet at several sessions of the Assembly 43 05 00
Thomas Hazard Potter, for expenses in carrying a letter from South Kings-
town, to the Governor, &c 1 1G 00
John Banister, for quartering soldiers, &c 21 00 00
Daniel Mowry, Jr., for expenses in taking an account of inhabitants in the
town of Smithfield 3 12 00
James Tew, for boarding and prison fees of a number of prisoners of war. . . 15 04 08
Caleb Boss, for expenses in carying several orders and resolutions of the gen-
eral committee, to Col. Noyes, and to sundry towns in Kings county. ... 1 10 00
John Carter, for printing and publishing sundry acts of Assembly, &c 29 16 00
* See letter accompanying, November 6, 1776.
24 RECORDS OF THE COLONY OF RHODE ISLAND [OCT.
Cromel Child for cash paid for towing a scow for the service of the state,
from Rhode Island to Warren 1 10 10
Tilley M, Olney, for expenses in warning Jonathan Randall, to attend the
meeting of the General Assembly 12 00
Richard Smith, for notifying the town clerks and colonel of militia, in the
county of Bristol, &c; and for warning the members of the Assembly. 13 00
Jeremiah Sheffield, for going express to Providence, &c 2 11 00
Jonathan J. Haszard, for expenses in going to the Jerseys on public business, 17 19 00
William Case Clarke, for expenses in going express to Jonathan Randall and
John Sayles, Jr., Esqs., to attend the meeting of the General Assembly, 2 17 00
James Teft. Jr., and Solomon Teft, for six days' attendance on the General
Assembly 2 02 00
Ebenezer Teft, for attendance on the General Assembly, and sundry services
rendered 2 12 00
Nathan Uowen, for his loss, on Prudence Island, by the enemy, of a scow,
oars and plank 17 08 04
Joshua Ingraham, for rent of house and stores occupied by troops in the ser-
vice of the state 5 00 00
James Tew, for the maintenance and prison fees of sundry prisoners of war, 10 18 03
.Joseph Stanton, Jr., Esq., for expenses to, and from, New York, on public
business 19 09 07
'Thomas Freebody, for cash advanced, &c 2 03 00
Joshua Babcock, for expenses to and from New York, on public business . . 21 00 0;!
Jonathan J. Haszard, for expenses in taking an account of the number of in-
habitants in the town of Charlestown 2 14 00
Beriah Brown, for expenses in bringing Samuel Chace, Esq., before the Gen-
eral Assembly 2 00 00
William Potter, for cash advanced, and materials provided for building the
court house in Kings county 231 09 0(5
Charles Holden, Jr., for expenses in numbering the inhabitants of the town
of Warwick 2 14 00
Nathaniel Mumford, for expenses in taking an account of cannon, and for at-
tendance on the General Assembly 13 00 08
Jonathan Hazard, for the use of a room in his house, to the members of the
upper house of the General Assembly 1 10 00
Simeon Potter, for expenses in fitting sloop, furnishing cartridge-paper,
&c, for the government 11 17 00
God save the United States of Americ;
1776.]
AND PROVIDENCE PLANTATIONS. 25
Lieut. Adam Comstock to the Governor of Rhode Island.
Headquarters, Portsmouth, (
September 4th, 1776. 7 o'clock, P. M. S
Sir — I understand the General Assembly has ordered Col. Lippitt's regiment to
Long Island, and I have given the necessary preparatory orders to my detachment, ac-
cordingly. But, sir, there arc many men in said regiment, that are very bare of clothes,
having neither shoes nor stockings to wear; and I find much grumbling among them
on the occasion.
Now, sir, I would humbly recommend to Your Honor, and to the Honorable General
Assembly's consideration, that the same number of troops ordered, might be detached
from both regiments that are now well clothed and shod, and fit for said march, who I
believe would go with a good resolution ; and if is afterwards found necessary, to send
off the remainder. There would be time to equip them fit for such a march.
I thought proper to communicate my sentiments on this matter, to Your Honor, to
be laid before before the General Assembly, if Your Honor thinks fit.
As to my own part, I am fully ready to march to any part of the continent, that
shall be thought best for the public good ; and shall cheerfully observe and obey the
former, or any other orders that the General Aseembly shall give.
You will please to pardon my writing that which might come more properly from
headquarters, at Newport, when you consider that I am much nearer Providence
than they are, and sending there first, would tend to procastinatc and delay our march,
I have the bonor to be, with unfeigned respect,
Your Honor's most obedient, and most humble servant,
ADAM COMSTOCK, Lieut,
To the Hon. Nicholas Cooke, Esq., Governor
and Commander-in-Chief of the state of
Rhode Island.
Jeremiah Powell, of Massachusetts, to the Governor of Rhode Island,
Watertown, September 17th, 1776.
Sir : — We have your letter of the 13th inst.,* and would now inform you, that in
consequence of orders issued by this Court, some days since, the most vigorous exer-
tions are now making to detach as large a proportion of the militia of this state as it's
supposed can possibly be spared, to march to the aid of the army at New York, with
the utmost expedition.
Since the issuing these orders, we have been requested by the Honorable Congress
to send one regiment of our militia to Rhode Island, to supply the place of one of the
Continental regiments ordered from thence. Whereupon, that part of our militia to be
raised in the counties of Plymouth and Barnstable, were destined to Rhode Island, and
Major General Warren was commanded to give the necessary order therefor ; but as
this regiment is to tako the charge of a number of whale-boats as far as Rhode Island,
agreeably to Governor Trumbull's proposal, in a letter now come to hand, their arrival
with you, may be in some measure delayed ; but you may be assured that every means
will be used to get them there, as soon as possible.
In the name, and in behalf of the General Assembly,
I have the honor to be, sir, your most obedient, humble servant,
JEREMIAH POWELL, President.
To the Hon. William Bradford, Esq.
* This letter is found on page 6'22, Vol. V1L, Rhode Island Colonial Records,
vol. vn i . 4
26 RECORDS OF THE STATE OF RHODE ISLAND [OCT.
Gen. Nathaniel Greene to the Governor of Rhode Island.
Camp at Harlem Heights, 17th Sept. 177i>.
Sir : — I suppose you have heard of the retreat from Long Island, and the evacuation
of New York. The retreats were both judicious and necessary, our numbers being
very insufficient to hold such an extent of ground. His Excellency had proposed to
evacuate the city and suburbs of "New York, some time before the enemy made their
last landing: and had the quartermaster general been able to furnish the necessary
wagons to remove the stores and baggage, the retreat would have been affected in good
order, had the enemy delayed their landing twenty -four hours longer.
Almost all the old standing regiment was drawn out of the city, in order to oppose
the enemy at Hell Gate, where they made an appearance of a very large body of
troops, and movements as if they intended a landing.
We made a miserable, disorderly retreat from New York, owing to the disorderly
conduct of the militia, who ran at the appearance of the enemy's advance guard. This
was Gen. Fellows's brigade ; they struck a panic into the troops in the rear, and Fel-
lows and Parsons's whole brigade ran away from about fifty men, and left His Excel-
lency on the ground within eighty yards of the enemy ; so vexed at the infamous
conduct of the troops, that he sought death rather than life. The retreat was on the
14th of this instant, from New York ; most of the troops got off ; but Ave lost a pro-
digious deal of baggage and stores.
On the 15th, we had a skirmish at Harlem Heights. A party of about a thousand
came and attacked our advance post ; they met with a very different kind of reception
from what they did the day before. The fire continued about an hour, and the enemy
retreated ; our people pursued them ; and by the spirited conduct of Gen. Putnam and
Col. Head, the adjutant general, our people advanced upon the plain ground, without
cover, and attacked them, and drove them back. His Excellency sent and ordered a
timely retreat to our advance post ; for he discovered, or concluded the enemy would
send a large reinforcement, as their main body lay near by.
I was sick when the army retreated from Long Island ; which, by the by, was the
best effected retreat, I ever read or heard of, considering the difficulty of the retreat.
The army now remains quiet, but expect an attack every day. Col. Varnuni and Col.
Hitchcock's regiments were in the last action, and behaved nobly ; but neither of the
colonels was with them ; both being absent ; one sick, the other taking care of the sick.
Time won't permit me to say much more, as I am wanted to go into the Jerseys.
I had the honor of seeing and conversing with your committee. I think, and so
does His Excellency, that the operations of the campaign have no effect upon you ; as
it will be impossible for the enemy to detach any part of the army, while our army is
able to make any stand. I would not evacuate one foot of ground ; as it will tend to
encourage the enemy, and dispirit our people. I am sure the government is safe, and
will remain so, unless the enemy can ruin this army. This is their grand object ; and
every means will be exerted to effect it. They will not have opportunity and strength
sufficient to molest you. I have not time to add one word more.
1 am, with all due respect,
Your most obedient, humble servant,
X. GREENE.
To Governor Cooke.
1770.]
AND PROVIDENCE PLANTATIONS. 27
The Governor of Rhode Island to General Washington.
State of Rhode Island, &c, ,
Bristol, September 23d, 1 7 7 ♦ » . j
Sir : — Having seen in the public papers that Your Excellency and the British ad-
miral have agreed upon an exchange of prisoners in the naval department, I beg leave
to apply to you in behalf of a mate of a vessel, and four seamen, all belonging to War-
wick, in this state ; some of whom are connected with very respectable families. They
were all taken in the merchant's service, and are prisoners on board one of the ships of
war, now in the Sound.
We have a mate of a merchant ship, and four seamen, who were taken in a trans-
port, with part of one of the Highland regiments, to give for them.
I request Your Excellency's directions, as soon as may be, whether we shall send
the prisoners directly to you, or how shall I proceed to procure the exchange; which
will very much oblige many worthy people here.
I am, with great esteem and respect,
Your Excellency's most obedient, and most humble servant,
[WILLIAM BRADFORD, Dep. Gov.|
To His Excellency General Washington.
John Hancock, President of the Continental Congress, to the Gen-
eral Assembly of Rhode Island.
Philadelphia, September 24th, 1776.
Gentlemen : — You will perceive by the enclosed resolves, which I have the honor to
forward to you, in obedience to the commands of Congress, that they have come to a
determination to augment our army, and to engage the troops to serve during the con-
tinuance of the war. As an inducement to enlist on these terms, the Congress have
agreed to give, besides a bounty of $20, a hundred acres of land to each soldier ; and
in case he should tall in battle, they have resolved that his children or other represen-
tatives, shall succeed to such land.
The many ill consequences arising from a short and limited enlistment of troops, are
too obvious to be mentioned. In general, give me leave to observe, that to make men
well acquainted with the duties of a soldier, requires time ; and to bring them under
proper subordination and discipline, not only requires time, but has always been a
work of much difficulty. We have had frequent experience, that men of a few days
standing, will not look forward ; but, as the time of their discharge approaches, grow
careless of their arms, ammunition, &c, and impatient of all restraint. The conse-
quence of which is, the latter part of the time for which the soldier was engaged,
is spent in undoing, what the greatest pains had been taken to inculcate at first. Need
I add to this, that the fall of the late General Montgomery, before Quebec, is un-
doubtedly to be ascribed to the limited time for which the troops were engaged, whose
impatience to return home, compelled him to make the attack, contrary to the convic-
tions of his own judgment.
This fact alone, furnishes a striking argument of the danger and impropriety of
sending troops into the field, under any restriction as to the time of their enlistment.
The noblest enterprize may be left unfinished by troops in such a predicament, or
abandoned at the very moment success must have crowned the attempt.
The heavy and enormous expense consequent upon calling forth the militia, the
delay attending their motions, and the difficulty of keeping them in camp, render it
28 RECORDS OF THE STATE OF RHODE ISLAND [OcT.
extremely improper to place our whole dependence on them. Experience hath uni-
formly convinced us of this ; some of the militia having actually deserted the camp at
the very moment their services were most wanted. In the meantime, the strength of
the British army which is great, is rendered much more formidable by the superior
order and regularity which prevail in it.
Under these circumstances, and in this situation of our affairs, it is evident that the
only means left us of preserving our liberties, is the measure which the Congress have
now adopted, and which I am ordered most earnestly to recommend to you to carry
into immediate effect.
Without a well disciplined army, we can never expect success against veteran
troops ; and it is totally impossible we should ever have a well disciplined army, unless
our troops are engaged to serve during the war.
To attain, therefore, this most desirable end, I am to request you will at once, and with
out a moment's delay, bend all your attention toraisc-your quota of the American army.
The times call for the greatest dispatch and vigor of conduct. When the bloorly standard
of tyranny is erected in a land of liberty, no good man, no friend of his country, can
possibly remain an inactive spectator of her fall. Display therefore, I most ardently
entreat you, that virtue which alone can save her on this occasion. Let us convince
our enemies, that as we entered into the present contest to defend our liberties, so we
are resolved, with the firmest reliance on Heaven for the justice of our cause, never to
relinquish it, but rather to perish in the ruins of it. If we do but remain firm ; if we
are undismayed at the little shocks of fortune, and are determined at all hazards, that
we will be free, I am persuaded, under the gracious smiles of Providence, assisted by
our own most strenuous endeavors, we shall finally succeed, agreeably to our wishes,
and thereby establish the independence, the happiness, and the glory of the United
States of America.
As the troops now in service, belonging to the several states, will be considered as
part Of their quota in the American army, you will please to take such steps as you
judge necsssary, to ascertain what number of troops, as well as what officers, will en-
gage to serve during the Avar.
I send by this express blank commissions, to be filled with such as you shall please
to appoint. I also forward a number of the rules and articles of war, as altered by
Congress, and just published.
I have the honor to be, gentlemen,
Your most obedient and very humble servant.
JOHN HANCOCK, President.
To the Honorable the Assembly of the state of Rhode Island.
Resolves of Congress, appointing a Committee to provide for the
purchase of Blankets, Clothing, dr., for the Soldiers.
In Congress, September 25th, 1776.
Resolved, that a committee of Congress, consisting of one delegate from each state,
be appointed with authority to employ proper persons to purchase in their respective
states a sufficient number of blankets and woolens fit for soldiers' clothes ; and that they
take the most effectual and speedy methods for getting such woolens made up and dis-
tributed among the regular Continental army in such proportion as will best promote
the public service ; and that they also purchase all other necessary clothing for the
soldiers, in such proportion as they judge, upon the best information, will be wanted ;
and that the said committee be authorized to draw on the president of Congress for the
sums necessary to execute their business ; they to be accountable for the amount of
their draughts and disbursements.
1776.]
AND PROVIDENCE PLANTATIONS. 29
The committee are Mr. Bartlett, Mr. Paine, Mr. Ellcry, Mr. Williams, Mr. Floyd
Mr. Stockton, Mr. Ross, Mr. McKcan, Mr. Middleton, and Mr. Hall.
October 10. Members added — Mr. Witherspoon, Mr. Stone and Mr. Penn.
In Congress, September 25th, 177*5.
Resolved, th.lt it be recommended to the General Assemblies and Conventions of
the United States, to forward to headquarters the clothing, blankets and necessaries,
which they may have provided in consequence of the resolution of Congress of the
19th of June last, drawing on the president for the cost and conveyance thereof; in
which it is hoped the utmost diligence and expedition will be used, that those who ex-
pose themselves to dangers in defending and protecting their fellow citizens, may suffer
as little as possible from inclement seasons.
(Extract from the minutes.) CHAS. THOMSON, Sec'ry.
General Washington to the Deputy Governor of Rhode Island.
Headquarters, Heights of Harlem, ,
September 29th, 1776. f
Sir: — I have been honored with your two favors of the 14th and 23d inst, and am to
return you my thanks for the measures you have taken to forward the two Continental
battalions from your state.
In respect to the exchange of the persons you mention, I apprehend it cannot be
executed, till a general one takes place. This I am trying to carry into execution
as well in the naval as the land service ; and therefore must request the favor of
your state to make out and transmit me a return as soon as possible, of all Conti-
nental prisoners in their hands ; distinguishing the names and ranks of the commis.
sioned and staff officers, and the corps to which they belong ; and the number of
non-commissioned and privates, observing the same rule in regard to those in the sea
service.
It will be well to have the whole collected at one or two convenient places, in order
that they may be sent forward as soon as the plan is properly digested, of which I shall
advise you, as sOon as I obtain the return.
I have written to the other eastern states upon the same subject ; and to me it ap*
pears that the prisoners with you, had better join those in Connecticut, that they may
come together. I would recommend your writing to Governor Trumbull, for informa-
tion, where their prisoners are to be assembled, and for his sentiment in this instance.
It also seems advisable they should come by water, rather than by land ; but of this,
you will have due notice, as I mean to settle upon some regular mode with the admiral
and General Howe, against the time I am furnished with the returns by the states.
I have the honor to be, with great respect, sir,
Your most obedient servant,
G. WASHINGTON.
To the Deputy Governor of Rhode Island.
John Hancock, President of the Continental Congress, to the General
Assembly of Rhode Island.
Philadelphia, October 2, 177G.
Gentlemen : — The many and just complaints of the insufficiency of the surgeons and
their mates, to discharge their duty in a proper manner, has induced Congress to pass
the enclosed resolves, recommending it to the several states to appoint some skillful
30 RECORDS OF THE COLONY OF RHODE ISLAND [OCT.
physicians and examiners, without whose approbation, no surgeon or surgeon's mate
shall receive a commission, either in the army or navy.
The Congress being at present deeply engaged in matters of the utmost importance
to the welfare of America, have judged it absolutely necessary that there should he a
full representation of the several states, as soon as possible. For this end, I am to re-
quest, in obedience to their commands, you will immediately take proper measures to
comply with the enclosed resolve, in order that the United States may be fully repre-
sented in Congress, and the sentiments of America be the better known, upon those in-
teresting subjects that lie before them. I shall therefore only once more request your
compliance with this requisition of Congress ; and have the honor to be, gentlemen,
Your most obedient and very humble servant,
JOHN HANCOCK, President.
To the Hon. Assembly of Rhode Island.
The Governor of Rhode Island to Gen. Greene.
Providence, October 5th, 1776.
Sir : — I am favored with yours of the 17th ult., which came to hand, when I was in
the hospital, under inoculation By the blessing of God, Mrs. Cooke, myself and the
rest of my family, who entered, being ten in number, went through the distemper, and
have come out of it very well. I have the pleasure to inform you, that Mrs. Greene,
your lady, was yesterday at my house, in good health.
I have written this day to General Washington, upon the requisition of Congress to
this state, to raise two battalions to serve during the war, and enclose yon a copy of
the paragraph upon that subject. I am, by the advice of the committee, to request
your attention to this matter; and that you will give every assistance and information
relating to it, in your power.
I am, sir, your most obedient and most humble servant,
NICHOLAS COOKE.
To General Greene.
P. S. At the request of the secretary, I send you the enclosed, which are from a
young lad, a volunteer, who was taken by Capt. Riddle ; we shall be glad if you would
serve him.
The Governor of Rhode Island to General Washington.
Providence, October 5th, 1776.
Sir: — Your Excellency's letter of the 17th ult.,* by the committee of this state, hath
been received.
Deputy Governor Bradford informed you that it had been recommended to Col.
Richmond to march with his battalion to join your army ; since which, Mr. Hopkins,
a member from this state, of the Continental Congress, hath arrived here ; by whose
advice it was concluded to stop their march, and to permit such of the men as should
incline, to enlist into the Continental navy. The reasons that induced the committee
to alter their first intention, were these :
Eight companies of the twelve of which that battalion consists, were enlisted about
the middle of November last, for a year. But part of the regiment of militia from the
Massachusetts, is yet arrived ; and it will be some time longer before the remainder
will arrive ; so that by the time Col. Richmond's battalion could be got under proper
regulations in camp, their enlistments would expire, and it might be expected they
would return home, to the great discouragement of the troops left behind.
* This letter is printed on page 623, Vol. VII. , Rhode Colonial Records.
1776.]
AND PROVIDENCE PLANTATIONS. 31
In that battalion, is a considerable number of seamen, who it is thought will enter
in the navy; and in the present scarcity of seamen in this state, upwards of twelve
hundred being at sea in the different privateers, it is absolutely impossible to supply
them with men in any other way.
After the committee had taken the last mentioned resolution, Mr. Burr, a gentleman
of character, arrived here from Governor Trumbull, with a plan of landing a body of
men upon the east end of Long Island, and collecting a considerable naval force in the
Sound. Upon conference witli him, and Commodore Hopkins, the committee deter-
mined to recommend it to Col. Richmond to proceed with such part of his battalion as
should not enter into the sea-service, to New London ; there to receive orders from
such general officer, as you should appoint to command in that expedition.
The two row-galleys of this state, with about sixty whale-boats, from the Massa-
chusetts, and between twenty and thirty belonging to us, will proceed to New London,
with the battalion and their baggage ; the galleys and whale-boats will be under the
direction of Commodore Hopkins, to assist in the expedition.
I last night received the resolutions of Congress, for enlisting eighty-eight battalions
in the Continental service, during the war; copies of which, without doubt, have been
transmitted to Your Excellency. By them, a requisition is made for two battalions
from this state ; at the same, Ave are informed by Mr. President Hancock, that the
troops now in service, belonging to the several states, who shall enlist for the war,
will be considered as part of their quota in the American army.
There are two battalions in Continental pay, which were originally raised by this
state, viz. : Col. Varnum's, Col. Hitchcock's, Col. Lippitt's, who are now in the
army, under your immediate command, and Col. liichmond's, which is under orders
for New London.
I write by this opportunity, to the three former, to make report to me of the
officers in their several battalions who will engage to serve during the war ; and by
the advice of the committee, I request Your Excellency to transmit to me, to be
laid before the General Assembly, at their session on the 28th instant, the names
of such of them as you shall think merit promotion.
I beg leave to assure Your Excellency that this state will give all possible efficacy
and dispatch to those important resolutions ; and that I am with great sincerity and
esteem, sir, Your most obedient and most humble servant,
NICHOLAS COOKE.
To His Excellency General Washington.
P. S. This letter will be delivered to Your Excellency by Mr. Jonathan Hasard,
who is a member of the General Assembly of this state, and whom I beg leave to
recommend to your attention.
John Hancock, President of the Continental Cone/ress^ to the
General Assembly of Rhode Island.
Philadelphia, October 9th, 177G.
Gentlemen : — The enclosed resolves, which I transmit in obedience to the com-
mands of Congress, will inform you of the ample provision they have made for the
support of both officer and soldier, who shall enter into the service during the war.
The pay of the former is considerably increased ; and the latter is to receive annually
a complete suit of clothes, or in lieu thereof, the sum of S20, should he provide the suit
for himself. This additional encouragement, besides the $20 bounty and one hundred
acres of land formerly granted, the Congress expect will be the means of engaging the
troops to serve during the war.
32 RECORDS OF THE STATE OF RHODE ISLAND [OCT.
For this purpose, also, I am to request you will appoint a committee or committees,
to repair immediately to the army, to induce such of the troops as have been raised
by your state, to enlist during the war, and to appoint officers for the same.
The Congress, for very obvious reasons, are extremely anxious to keep the army
together. The dangerous consequences of their breaking up, and the difficulty of
forming a new one, are inconceivable. Were this barrier once removed, military powe.i
would quickly spread desolation and ruin over the face of our country. The import-
ance, and indeed the absolute necessity of filling up the army, of providing for the
troops, and engaging them to serve during the war, is so apparent, and has been so fre-
quently urged, that I shall only request your attention to the resolves of Congress on
this subject ; and beseech you, by that love you have for your country, her rights and
liberties, to exert yourselves to carry them speedily and effectually into execution, as
the only means of preserving her in this her critical and alarming situation.
I have the honor to be, gentlemen,
Your most obedient and very humble servant,
JOHN HAXCOCK, President.
To the Honorable Assembly of Rhode Island.
I1. S. The printed resolves herewith enclosed, relative to the establishing loan
offices in the respective states, for the purpose of borrowing money on Continental se-
curity, and the regulations with regard to the same, I beg leave to recommend to your
immediate attention ; and that vqu will take the proper steps to comply with them,
Major General Nathaniel Greene to the Governor of Rhode Island.
Fort Constitution, October 11th, 1776.
Sir : — His Excellency General Washington will transmit you a list of officers to con-
stitute the two new regiments to be raised by your state. The most of those officers
are gentlemen whose conduct has been approved by those under whom they have
served.
The success of the cause, the defeat of the enemy, the honqr of the state, and the
reputation of the army, altogether depends upon the establishing a good core or corps
of officers. My little experience has fully convinced me, that without more attention
is paid by the different states in the appointment of the officers, the troops never will
answer their expectation. I hope as every thing that is dear and valuable is at stake,
that no popular prejudices nor family connexion, will influence the House in the elec-
tion of the officers for the new army.
I am sensible that America has as good materials to form an army, as any state in
the world ; but without a good set of officers the troops will be little better than a
lawless banditti, or an ungovernable mob. The Americans possess as much natural
bravery as any people upon earth ; but habit must form the soldier. He who expects men
brought from the tender scenes of domestic life, can meet danger and death with a be-
coming fortitude, is a stranger to the human heart. There is nothing that can get the
better of that active principle of self-preservation, but a proper sentiment of pride,
or being often accustomed to danger. As the principle of pride is not predomi-
nant enough in the minds of the common soldiery, the force of habit must be
called into its aid, to get the better of our natural fears, ever alarmed at the approach
of danger.
There has been, it must be confessed, soma shameful conduct in this army, in this cam-
paign, in a great measure owing to the bad conduct of the officers. I have neither seen
nor heard of one instance of cowardice among the old troops where they had good
officers to lead them on. In the last action, every regiment behaved with becoming
spirit ; especially Col. Hitchcock's and Col. Varnum's. I don't wish to see an officer
1776.]
AND PROVIDENCE PLANTATIONS. 33
in the army but such as has a regard for their reputation ; who feels a sentiment of
honor, and is ambitious of distinguishing himself; such will answer all public expecta-
tion, and be an honor to the state that sent him.
Col. Varnum, from the treatment he has met with from Congress, has taken the
resolution of leaving the army. The colony is generally acquainted with bis abilities,
that he stands in no need of a recommendation. Perhaps the House may think proper
tore-elecl him, and give him the opportunity to refuse the appointment, as a compli-
ment due to his past sen ice-.
Col. Cornwell and Col. Carey, you'll observe, arc both left out in the general's ar-
rangement : they were both in the late action, and behaved exceeding well. But as
there is a reduction of regiments', 'tis not possible to accommodate the whole ; and there
is a preference given by the under-officers ; though they never have been consulted upon
this occasion. His Excellency has put down only such as appear deserving, without con-
sulting them upon the subject, to know whether they would serve or not. The House
will appoint such and so many of those recommended, as they shall think proper, and
fill th.e vacancies of their own choice ; hut I hope there will be none in the arrange-
ment, but men of merit.
The several retreats and evacuations that have taken place this campaign, without
doubt has alarmed the tears of the timid, and aroused their apprehension of an ap-
proaching ruin. The source of these misfortunes, have originated from several causes.
The strength of the enemy far exceeded the expectations of Congress ; the late season
that they attempted to call in a reinforcement to our aid ; the many delays that took
place among the different states, in furnishing their proportion, protracted the time of
collecting the forces together to such a degree, that when the enemy had their wThole
strength together, ours in different detachments were far inferior to theirs.
With a force inferior to the enemy, in number ; with troops that were mostly raw
and undisciplined, with young and ignorant officers, what could be expected against old
experienced officers, with veteran troops to command, short of what has taken place?
Especially, when you take in the idea of the extent of ground we had to guard, and
the assistance the enemy received from their ships, owing to the situation of the ports
occupied. The militia has come ami gone in such shoals, that His Excellency could
never tell scarcely two days together, the strength he had at any one port.
If the different states complete the establishment, agreeably to the resolve of Con-
gress, and the troops come well officered (for on that the whole depends), I have not
the least doubt in my mind, but that in a few months we shall be able to seek the
enemy, instead of they us. 1 know our men are more than equal to theirs ; and were
our officers equal to our men, we should have nothing to fear from the best troops in the
world. I do not mean to derogate from the worth and merit of all the officers in the
army. We have many that are in the service, deserving the highest applause; and
have served with reputation, and honor to themselves, and the state that sent them ;
and I am happy that I have it to say that the Rhode Island regiments hitherto, are
amongst this number.
Three of the enemy's ships passed the chevaux-de-frize, on the North River, yester-
day, and went up to Tappan Bay. Our army is strongly fortified, and so much out
of the command of the shipping, we have little more to fear this campaign. The troops
have been, and still are, exceedingly sickly. The same disorder rages in the enemy's
camp, as does in ours, hut is much more mortal. Nothing new from the northern
army. T am, with great esteem, your obedient servant,
NATH'L GREENE.
To the Governor of Rhode Island,
34 RECORDS OF THE STATE OF RHODE ISLAND [OCT.
Commissioners of the Continental Congress to the Governor of
Bhode Island.
Philadelphia, Octoher 11th, 177G.
Sir :— Congress being earnestly engaged to make the best provision in their power,
for clothing the troops, particularly those who enlist into the new army, have passed
the enclosed resolve ; and the committee being of opinion that the Assembly of your
state can direct the execution of this matter more effectually than they can, request
you to apply to the Assembly of your state to appoint the most suitable persons to
transact this business with all possible dispatch ; and upon letting us know what
sums of money you may be able to lay out, it shall be sent you.
We are, with great respect,
Your Honor's most obedient, humble servants,
ROB'T TREAT PAINE, JOHN PENN,
W.M. WILLIAMS, JOSIAH BARTLETT,
G, WYTHE, T. STONE,
LYMAN HALL, WM. ELLERY.
JNO. WITHERSPOON,
To the Hon. Nicholas Cooke, Esq., Governor
of the state of Rhode Island and Provi-
dence Plantations.
Gen Washington to the Governor of Rhode Island,
Headquarters, Harlem Heights, (
October 12, 1776, )
Sir:— The situation of our affairs, and the approaching dissolution of the present
army, calling for every possible exertion on our part, to levy a new one ; and presuming
that your state are about to make an arrangement of officers for the quota of troops
which they are to furnish, and that they may wish to know those belonging to them
who have served with reputation and bravery, I have thought it expedient to obtain a
return by such means as seemed most likely to be well founded. To this end, I have
made inquiry, and the enclosed list, which I have the honor to transmit you, compre-
hends the names of those who, in public estimation, and that of the generals under
whom they have more particularly acted, have behaved themselves well and to good
acceptance; and whose past conduct gives a reasonable hope that their future will
render material services to their country.
The advantages arising from a judicious appointment of officers, and the fatal consc-
qenees that result from the want of them, are too obvious to require arguments to
prove them. 1 shall therefore beg leave to add only, that as the well-doing, nay, the
very existence, of every army to any profitable purposes, depend upon ii, that too
much regard cannot be had to the choosing of men of merit, and such as are not only
under the influence of a warm attachment to their country, but who also possess sen-
timents of principles of the strictest honor. Men of this character are fit for office, and
will use their besl endeavors to introduce that discipline and subordination which are
essential to good order, and inspire that confidence in the men which alone can give
success to the interesting and important contest in which we are engaged. I would
idso beg leave to subjoin, that it appears to me absolutely necessary that this business
should have your earliest attention, that those who are nominated may employ their
1776.]
AND PROVIDENCE PLANTATIONS. 35
interest and influence to recruit men out of your corps that are now here, without loss
of time.
In respect to the officers that were in the Canada expedition, their behaviour and
merit, and the severities they have experienced, entitle them to a particular notice, in
my opinion. However, as they are under their paroles, I would recommend that va-
cancies should he reserved for such as you think lit to promote, not wishing them to
accept commissions immediately, or to do the least act that may he interpreted a viola-
tion of their engagement.
Their releasement, I hope, will be soon obtained, as I think them entitled to the first
exchange, and which I have mentioned to Congress.
I flatter myself that the freedom I have taken in the instances above, will have the
indulgence and pardon of your state, when I assure you that the list you will receive,
is not intended to exclude gentlemen of greater merit, or transmitted with other views
than to assist you, and of promoting the general good ; and also , that the measure has
been recommended by a committee of Congress, who were pleased to honor me with
a visit. I have done the same to Governor Trumbull, at his particular request ; and
the officers are making out a return, to be laid before the Massachusetts Assembly, of
the same nature, so far as it concerns the officers from their state.
On the morning of the 9th instant, three of he enemy's ships, two of forty-four guns, and
one of twenty, with three or four tenders, ran up the North River, without receiving
any interruption from our chwaux-de-frize, or apparent damage from our batteries ;
though a heavy fire was kept up against them from each side of the river ; they are
laying at Tarrytown, from twenty -five to thirty miles above this ; and out-sailing two
of our row-galleys in their passage up, they fell into their hands ; the crews escaped.
1 had liked to have omitted mentioning the appointment of a paymaster to each
regiment, who, I perceive, are not noticed in the list transmitted you.
Congress, by a late resolution, have allowed such an officer, with captain's pay ; and
as their duty will be not only to receive the regiment's pay, but to keep accounts of
their clothing and every other incidental charge, I would beg leave to recommend
that attention should be had to their appointment ; and that persons may be nominated
who are well versed in accounts, and who can keep them in a fair and proper manner.
I am led to advise this precaution to be used, because it will be an office of a good deal
of consequence ; and because in several instances in the present army, where the ap-
pointments were made in consequence of recommendations from the field officers, per^
sons have been put in, who, so far from being accountants, and answering the designs
of Congress, can scarcely write their own names.
October 18. — Yesterday the enemy landed at Frog's Point, about nine miles from
hence up the Sound ; their number we cannot ascertain, as they have not advanced.
The Point is rather an island, as it is surrounded by water every high tide. From the
great movements of ships and other vessels up the Sound, in the evening, with troops
within, and the information of two deserters who came out last night, there is strong
reason to believe they mean to land, and pursue their former scheme of getting in our
rear, and cutting off the communication with the country. I have ordered some works
to be thrown up on the passes leading from the Sound, where they are landed ; and
from the situation of the grounds through which they must pass, if they pursue their
plan, I would fain hope they will sustain a considerable loss, if not a repulse.
I have the honor to be, &c,
G: WASHINGTON.
To Governor Cooke, Rhode Island;
36 RECORDS OF THE STATE OF RHODE ISLAND [OCT.
Return of Officers recommended by Gen. Washington io the General
Assembly of Rhode Island, for the New Establishment.
Field officers recommended — Daniel Hitchcock, colonel; Israel Angell, lieutenant
colonel ; Christopher Smith, major.
Officers in service recommended. Captains— -Jeremiah Olney, William Tew, Cog-
geshall Olney, Ephraim Bowen, Simeon Thayer, William Bradford, Carr,
Riggs.
First Lieutenants — Stephen Olney, William Allen, William Littletield,
Grant, Joseph Whitmarsh, Daniel Pierce, Amos Crandall, Micah Moulton.
Second Lieutenants— Thomas Hughes, James Webb, William Humphrey, Duty
Jerrald.
Ensigns — Ebenezer West, Holliman Potter, Thomas Waterman, Oliver Jenks,
Richard Hunniwell.
Staff officers recommended— Chaplain, adjutant, Cyprean Sterry, quartermaster ;
surgeon, mate.
Field officers recommended — Christopher Greene, colonel ; Adam Comstock, lieu-
tenant colonel ; Henry Sherbune, major.
Officers in service recommended. Captains — Samuel Ward, John Topham, Ebene-
zer Flagg, Silas Talbut, Thomas Cole, Jonathan S. Dexter, Martin,
WaJJin.
First lieutenants— Joseph Arnold, William Belcher, Timothy Lock, Samuel Bissell,
Rawson, William Potter, Handy, Xoyes.
Second lieutenants — Ichabod Prentice, John Chapman, Edward Slocum, John
Remington.
Ensigns — Zephaniah Brown.
Staff officers recommended — Chaplain, adjutant, Clarke Browne, quartermaster ;
surgeon, mate.
Col. Varnum would have been recommended for a colonel of one of the regiments,
but he refuses to serve.
Recommended from the different regiments, the within arrangement for constituting
the two Rhode Island regiments, upon the new establishment.
Included in this arrangement, are the following officers, now prisoners of war ;
List of Officers who are now Prisoners of War.
Lieut. Colonel Christopher Greene, Lieutenant James Webb,
Captain Samuel AVard, Lieutenant William Humphreys,
Captain John Topham, Ensign Edward Slocum.
Captain Simeon Thayer,
N. B. It is not meant that the within arrangement shall determine the rank of the
captains and subaltern officers.
1776.]
AND PROVIDENCE PLANTATIONS. 37
Gen. Nathaniel Greene to the Governor of Rhode Island.
Headquarters, New York Island, ,
October 16, L776. j
Sir: — roars, of the 5th, was delivered by Mr. Haszard; the subject of which, I
have written upon before, as fully as necessary. The anxiety I felt for the honor of
the state, and the good of the cause, made me anticipate your wishes, relative to recom-
mendations.
I had made a collection of the officers belonging to the three Rhode Island regi-
ments, and delivered it in to His Excellency General Washington, to be forwarded to
your state. That recommendation and arrangement of officers is the best that I could
make, or recommend to the general, all circumstances considered. The state will act
their pleasure with respect to the appointment. The general only wishes to have good
men, such as will discharge their duty in every point of view, and maintain the char-
acter of gentlemen ; he lias no attachment to any person farther than his merit recom-
mends him. Men of merit he wishes to be appointed, whether in or out of the army.
General Howe has landed at Frog's Point, a place a few miles east of Hell Gate ; he
is collecting his force together at that place, with a design to cut off our retreat. His
Excellency is making an arrangement to counteract him. The troops appear to be in
good spirits ; and I am in hopes if Howe attacks us, he will meet with a defeat ; a
battle daily, nay hourly expected. I shall come in for no share of the honor or glory
of the day, if victorious ; nor shame or disgrace, if defeated; my command being in
Newburg.
Howe's design evidently appears to be, to get in our rear, to cut off our supplies, and
starve the army out. This reduces us to the necessity of extending our left wing out
in the country, to preserve our communication with the country, from whence we get
our support. A few days may produce some events important to the American in-
terest. I was on Staten Island night-before-last ; the greatest part of the British troops
and Hessians, are drawn off, to support General Howe's operations at Frog's Point.
I am exceeding happy to hear of the recovery of your family from the small
pox. Present my respects to them, and to Mr. Ward, the secretary. I have carefully
sent in the letters, sent me by the flags.
I am, with great respect, your obedient, humble servant,
NATHANIEL GREENE.
To the Governor of Rhode Island.
S8 records of tht: state of rhode island [Not
Proceedings of the General Assembly, held for the State of Rhode
Island and Providence Plantations, at East Greenwich, on
Thursday, the 21st day of November, 1770.
The Hon. Nicholas Cooke, Governor;
The Hon. William Bradford, Deputy Governor.
It is voted and resolved, that Mr. George Sears, with the
committee of safety for this state, be, and they are hereby,
appointed a committee to purchase blankets, shirts, stock-
ings, shoes and woolens, fit for soldiers' clothes ; and that
they take the most effectual and speedy methods for getting
such woolens as they may purchase, and those already pur-
chased in behalf of the Continent, made up, that the same
may be forwarded as soon as may be, to headquarters, near
New York, agreeably to a recommendation of Congress ;
and that they draw upon the Continental agent for the
sums necessary to execute this business.
Whereas, this Assembly hath been requested to give asj
sistance to forward the manning and sailing of those ships
and vessels belonging to the Continental fleet and navy,
which are now in this state.
And whereas, it is represented to this Assembly, that
great uneasiness hath arisen amongst the men belonging to
the navy, on account of the wages not having been paid,
nor the prize-money distributed ; which has not only pro-
duced a great disaffection to the service, and now prevents
many from entering therein; but has also been represented
much to the disadvantage of this state, and proved injurious
to that character it has ever supported in the defence of
American liberty ; —
It is therefore voted and resolved, that Esek Hopkins,
Esq., commodore and commander-in-chief of said fleet, be re-
1770.] AND PROVIDENCE PLANTATIONS. 39
quested, by special message, to attend this Assembly, in
order that by making such inquiry as they think proper,
respecting the matters, aforesaid, this Assembly may be
enabled to render to the said navy the most effectual assist-
ance, and acquit this state from every injurious misrepre-
sentation on that account.
Whereas, the time of enlistment of a greater part of the
soldiers in the regiment under the command of Col. Rich-
mond, hath expired, and the said soldiers are discharged ;
and whereas, the commissions of the field officers have
expired. —
It is therefore voted and resolved, that the artillery and
other companies in said regiment, whose ^time of enlistment
hath not expired, with their respective officers, continue in
service, agreeably to their enlistment, and be under the
command of Col. Cooke ; that the said officers rank agreea-
bly to the date of their commissions.
That the captain and subaltern officers, who have Conti-
nental commissions, take rank of the captains and subaltern
officers who have militia commissions ; and that the thanks
of this Assembly be given to Col. William Richmond, and
the rest of the officers who have Continental commissions,
for their good services during the time they have been in
this state.
An Act in addition to an act, entitled a An act empowering
the members of the upper and lower houses of Assembly,
to tender to such of the inhabitants as are herein men-
tioned a declaration or test, for subscription."
Be it enacted by the General Assembly, and by the au-
thority thereof it is enacted, that no execution in future be
issued on any judgment of any of the courts of law within
this state, unless the person or persons in whose favor said
judgment is obtained, hath subscribed the test prescribed
by any act of this state, or hath taken the affirmation,
or produced the proper certificate by said act required ;
and all executions already issued in favor of any person
40 RECORDS OF THE STATE OF RHODE ISLAND [NOV.
or persons who have not subscribed the said test, or taken
said affirmation, or produced such certificate, be returned by
the officers to whom they may be delivered, to the court to
which they may be returnable, unsatisfied, unless the said
person or persons, before the return thereof, subscribe said
test, or take said affirmation, or produce said certificate.
And be it further enacted by the authority aforesaid, that
when any person hath been committed upon any execution,
at the suit of any person within this state, who hath not
subscribed the test act ; and the person committed stands
still committed, or is out upon thirty per cent, bond, that
such persons be discharged from prison, or from such bonds ;
the judgment to stand good, and execution to issue thereon,
as though no execution had issued, upon the persons who
have obtained such judgments first subscribing the test,
taking the affirmation, or producing the certificate pre-
scribed by the said act ; such persons so committed, paying
and discharging the fees for committing, and prison-fees.
And be it further enacted by the authority aforesaid, that
no person, within or without this state, shall be allowed the
privilege of obtaining any judgment or execution, upon any
note assigned over by any inhabitant of this state, unless
the person who hath assigned the same, hath subscribed said
test, or hath taken said affirmation, or produced the certifi-
cate by the said act required.
It is voted and resolved, that the secretary do make out
an abstract of the officers in the regiments lately under the
command of Col. William Richmond; with the respective
times of their entering into the service and dismission there-
from ; and the extra pay allowed by this state, agreeably to
the pay allowed by Congress to the said officers, in order
that tin- same may be signed by the colonel, and delivered
to the committee of of safety, to be by them paid.
That Col. Richmond do make out abstracts from the sev-
eral returns of the companies in the said regiments, and
deliver the same to the committee of safety in this state, as
soon as may be ; who shall immediately upon the receipt
1776] AND PROVIDENCE PLANTATIONS. 41
thereof, draw the moneys due thereon, out of the general
treasury, and pay the same.
That Messrs. Nathaniel Mumford, Thomas Greene and
Gideon Mumford, the standing committee, for auditing ac-
counts for this state, be, and they are hereby, directed to
make out an account of all disbursements made by this
state, for the said regiment, and present the same, together
with the above mentioned account of the extra pay to the
officers, to the paymaster of the Continental troops, for the
northern district of America, and receive the moneys due,
therefor, and pay the same into the general treasury ; and
that the said standing committee make report of their doings
to this Assembly, as soon as may be.
Whereas, it appears, by advice by express from due au-
thority in New London, in the state of Connecticut, that a
flag of truce is there arrived from Lord Howe, for a general
exchange of prisoners, confined in the marine department.
And whereas, this Assembly is also well informed, that a
considerable number of the subjects of the American states
have been captured by the British navy, as well those who
sailed in American privateers, as in merchantmen ; that all
are promiscuously confined under decks in large numbers,
in a very sickly condition, and under short allowance ;
therefore, for the relief of such, —
It is voted and resolved, that the brigantine which the
masters and mates of the pjizes lately captured and brought
into this state, purchased agreeably to an act of this Assem-
bly, together with each and every person who hath had a
permit to proceed in said brigantine, be detained, and not
suffered to depart until further orders from this Assembly,
that it may be known, whether if they depart from this port
for Great Britain, by permission of this Assembly, a like
number will be exchanged for them.
And the sheriff of the county of Providence is hereby or-
dered and directed immediately to see this resolve carried
into execution, if said brigantine is to be found within this
42 RECORDS OF THE STATE OF RHODE ISLAND [NOV.
state ; and all officers, civil and military, are to aid and as-
sist, if occasion require.
It is voted and resolved, that Mr. John Wanton (son of
Gideon), Dr. Jonathan Arnold and Messrs. Immanuel Case,
Thomas Holden and Sylvester Child, he, and they are here-
by, appointed a committee to regulate the fees of the several
officers within this state ; and that they make report to this
Assembly, at the next session.
An Act for raising a regiment, to serve for three months.
Be it enacted by this General Assembly, and by the au-
thority thereof, it is hereby enacted, that one regiment be
forthwith raised from the militia of this state, to consist of
the number of men as hereafter ordered; and to continue in
the service of this state three months from the time of their
enlistment, unless dismissed before that time by this Assembly.
That said regiment be commanded by one colonel, one
lieutenant colonel, and one major, and consist of eight com-
panies ; each company to be led by one captain, two lieu-
tenants, and one ensign.
That one adjutant and one quartermaster be appointed
for said regiment.
That said regiment be composed of six men as soldiers, of
every hundred of the male inhabitants of sixteen years of
age, and upwards, as last estimated within this state.
That the several towns within this state, raise such a
number of men within their respective towns, as shall be
their proportion, thereof, agreeably to the said estimate.
That if any of the said male inhabitants shall enlist in
any other town than the town whereof they are inhabitants,
they shall be considered as raised by the towns to which
they respectively belong ; and the said towns are hereby
directed to inarch their said proportion of men to the island
of Rhode Island, within ten clays from the rising of this As-
sembly, upon the penalty of £100, lawful money, to be re-
covered of any delinquent town, for the use of this state,
1776.] AND PROVIDENCE PLANTATIONS. 43
by the general treasurer, by bill, plaint or information, in
any of the courts of law within this state.
And it is further enacted by the authority aforesaid, that
the form of the enlistment for the regiment now ordered
to be raised, be as follows, to wit :
Form of Enlistment for the Soldiers.
" I, the subscriber, hereby solemnly engage and enlist my-
self, as a soldier, in the regiment ordered to be raised from
the militia of the state of Rhode Island and Providence Plan-
tations, in the service and pay of said state, from the day
of my enlistment, for and during the term of three months,
unless sooner discharged by the Assembly of said state ;
and I hereby promise to submit myself to all the orders
and regulations of the army of the United States ; and faith-
fully to observe and obey all such orders, as I shall re-
ceive, from time to time, from my officers."
And it is further enacted by the authority aforesaid, that
the officers and soldiers of the said regiment be, and thev
are hereby, allowed the same monthly wages, as are allowed
the officers and soldiers of the regiment under the command
of Col. John Cooke, now upon the island of Rhode Island,
aforesaid.
And it is further enacted by the authority, aibresaid, that
the committee of safety, with such other persons as the
several towns within this state shall appoint, are hereby ap-
pointed to equip and furnish each and every soldier, avIio
shall enlist, as aforesaid, with a blanket, knapsack, one good
fire-arm, with a bayonet and cartridge-box ; to be returned
to such of the said committee of safety who furnished the
same, at the expiration of the time of enlistment of said soldiers.
And it is further enacted by the authority, aforesaid, that
for as many blankets, knapsacks, fire-arms, with a bayonet
and cartridge-box, as cannot readily be furnished by the
aforesaid committee, the following sums shall be paid to
44 RECORDS OF THE STATE OF RHODE ISLAND [NOV.
each and every soldier who shall furnish himself with them,
or either of them, for the use, thereof, to wit :
Thirteen shillings, lawful money, for a blanket ; two shil-
lings and sixpence, for a knapsack ; twelve shillings for a
fire-arm and bayonet ; and two shillings and sixpence, for a
cartridge-box.
And it is further enacted by the authority aforesaid, that
the committees of safety do, and they are hereby directed
to receive the fire-arms in the town of Newport, belonging
to this state, in order to equip the soldiers, as aforesaid.
And it is further enacted by the authority aforesaid, that
those towns, who, in taking the last estimate, before referred
to, included those of their inhabitants who were either in
the army or navy, raise only such a number of men as their
proportion shall be, agreeably to said estimate, excluding
therefrom the persons who were absent, as aforesaid.
And it is further enacted by the authority aforesaid, that
the secretary be, and he is hereby directed to transmit to
the several town clerks within this state, copies of this act,
within forty-eight hours after the rising of this Assembly ;
and the said town clerks are hereby directed immediately to
issue their warrants to call town meetings within their re-
spective towns, to meet as soon as may be, for carrying this
act into execution.
It is voted and resolved, that each captain, or next officer
in command, of the several independent companies, and com-
panies of militia in this state, notify his company to appear
at some proper place on the 29th day of this instant No-
vember, under arms, with all accoutrements, agreeably to law.
That such captain or next commanding officer, see that
the fines for non-attendance be punctually collected ; and
make out a list of the deficiency of each person in each
article.
That he send a proper officer to the dwelling-house of
each person not attending, to examine how far such person
be deficient.
1776.] AND PROVIDENCE PLANTATIONS, 45
That each captain, or next commanding officer of the
companies of militia, make a proper return thereof, to the
colonel of the regiment to which he belongs.
That each captain, or next officer in command of the in-
dependent companies, make a like return to this Assembly,
at the next session ; and that the secretary transmit a copy
of this resolve to each colonel of the militia, and to each
commander of the several independent companies in this
state, within three days after the rising of this Assembly.
Both houses being resolved into a grand committee, made
choice of the following gentlemen as officers, in the regi-
ment now ordered to be raised :
Officers chosen for the Regiment.
John Sayles, Jr., Esq., colonel ; Benjamin Talman, Esq.,
lieutenant colonel ; Thomas Potter, Jr., Esq., major.
Wing Spooner, Christopher Manchester, Jr., Thomas
Thompson, Moses Turner, Malachi Hammett, Asa Kimball,
Stephen Sheldon and Royzel Smith, captains.
Samuel Stevens, first lieutenant of Capt, Wing Spooner's
company.
Walter Palmer, first lieutenant of Capt, Christopher Man-
chester's company.
William Coon, Jr., first lieutenant of Capt. Thos. Thomp-
son's company.
William Lawless, first lietenant of Capt, Moses Turner's
company.
Micah Whitmarsh, first lieutenant of Capt, Malachi Ham-
mett's company.
Squire Fiske, first lieutenant of Capt. Asa Kimball's
company.
Nathaniel Carpenter, first lieutenant of Capt. Stephen
Sheldon's company.
John Cole, Jr., first lieutenant of Capt, Royzel Smith's
company.
46 RECORDS OF THE STATE OF RHODE ISLAND [NoV.
Moses Watson, second lieutenant of Capt. Wing Spooner's
company.
Thomas Earl, second lieutenant of Capt. Christopher
Manchester's company,
Christopher Clarke, second lieutenant of Capt. Thomas
Thompson's company.
Vial Allen, second lieutenant of Capt, Moses Turners
company.
Job Greene, second lieutenant of Capt. Malachi Hammett's
company.
Laban Waterman, second lieutenant of Capt. Asa Kim-
ball's company.
Esek Olney, second lieutenant of Capt, Stephen Sheldon's
company.
Barber Peckham, second lieutenant of Capt, Royzel
Smith's company.
Benjamin Cornel, ensign of Captain Wing Spooner's
company.
Job Clapp, ensign of Capt, Christopher Manchester's
company.
George Wilcox, ensign of Capt, Thomas Thompson's
company.
Thomas Swan, ensign of Capt. Moses Turner's company.
Joseph Hopkins, ensign of Capt. Malachi Hammett's
company.
Samuel Black, ensign of Capt, Asa Kimball's company.
John Herrington, ensign of Capt. Stephen Sheldon's
company.
Lawrence Pearce, ensign of Capt, Royzel Smith's company.
Staff officers — Benjamin Stelle, adjutant ; Solomon Town-
send, Jr., quartermaster ; Stephen Wigneren, surgeon.
And the said Stephen Wigneron is also appointed sur-
geon to all the forces stationed, or about to be stationed, up-
on Rhode Island.
It is voted and resolved, that Ebenezer Spencer be ap-
pointed captain ; William Hall, lieutenant ; and John Shaw,
1770.] AND PROVIDENCE PLANTATIONS. 47
ensign, of the first compari}'' of militia, in East Greenwich;
and that Amos Jones bo ensign of the second company, in
said town.
Whereas, Capt, William Sweet preferred his petition to
this Assembly, setting forth, that whilst in the service of this
state, lie, with the sailors under his command, were captured
by the enemy, and carried into Antigua ; from which place,
he, together with Mr. Jonathan Fairbanks, his mate, took
passage for Rhode Island, which was very expensive to the
petitioner, he being obliged to pay all the expenses of Mr.
Fairbanks, or leave him behind.
That he is now sued to Providence court for the money
in his hands, belonging to the state, which he ever was, and
now is, ready to account for.
And thereupon prayed this Assembly to take his petition
into consideration, and grant to him and Mr. Fairbanks
their wages and expenses, in the same manner as has been
already allowed to the seamen who were captured with
him ; to which petition, he subjoined an account of their ex-
penses and wages ; and the premises being duly considered
by this Assembly, —
It is voted and resolved, that £26 10s. 4cl, of the said ac-
count be allowed, and no more ; this Assembly deducting
therefrom, the charges of wages made ; and that said sum
be deducted from the demand on which an action has been
commenced against the said William Sweet, by this state ;
and upon his, the said William's paying to the general
treasurer the balance that will be due to this state, after
making the deduction, aforesaid, that said action be with-
drawn.
It is voted and resolved, that the captains now chosen to
be commissionated for the regiment ordered to be raised, to
be sent upon Rhode Island, take rank according to the date
of their commissions, which they have heretofore had for
actual service ; and those that have commissions bearing
equal elate, draw for rank ; and those who never before had
commissions, likewise draw for rank <, and that those who
48 RECORDS OF THE STATE OF RHODE ISLAND [Nov.
have had commissions for actual service, take rank of those
who never had such commissions ; and that the lieutenants
and ensigns serve in the companies to which they are ap-
pointed ; and if any of the said officers appointed for said
regiment, shall not accept their commissions, that the towns
to which they may respectively belong, appoint other
persons in their places ; and that they be commissionated
accordingly.
Whereas, this state is in daily expectation of an invasion
from the enemy, —
It is therefore voted and resolved, that it be, and it is
hereby, recommended to the inhabitants, thereof, who have
stock upon either of the islands of Jamestown or Prudence,
to remove the same immediately to the main land ; and that
the sheriff of the county of Newport give notice to the in-
habitants of Jamestown ; and the sheriff of the county of
Bristol, to the inhabitants of Prudence, of this resolve.
It is voted and resolved, that one month's pay be ad-
vanced to every man who shall enlist himself as a soldier, in
the regiment ordered by this Assembly to be raised from
the militia of this state, at the time of his enlistment.
That the same be paid by the committees of safety, and
the persons appointed by the several towns, to furnish
the troops with blankets, knapsacks, guns, bayonets and
cartouch-boxes, agreeably to the act of this Assembly ; and
that the persons so appointed by the several towns, be fur-
nished with such sums of money as shall be necessary for
furnishing and equipping said troops, and paying the said
advanced wages from the committees of safety for this
state.
Whereas, the General Court of the state of Massachusetts
Bay, by a resolve of the 16th of this instant November, have
appointed a committee, to meet committees from the Gen-
eral Assemblies of the states of Connecticut, New Hamp-
shire and this state, at Providence, on the 10th day of
December next, in case such committees be by the said As-
semblies appointed, to hold a conference respecting further
1776.] AND PROVIDENCE PLANTATIONS. 49
emissions of paper currency on the credit of any of the said
states ; also, upon measures necessary for supporting the
credit of the public currencies, thereof, &c. ; which having
been duly considered by this Assembly, —
It is voted and resolved, that the Hon. William Bradford,
Esq., Col. Jonathan Arnold and Henry Marchant, Esqs., be,
and they are hereby, appointed a committee, to meet the
said committee from the state of the Massachusetts Bay, at
the time and place, and for the purposes in the said resolve
mentioned.
Provided, the states of Connecticut and New Hampshire
shall think proper to appoint committees for the same pur-
poses ; and that the secretary immediately transmit copies
of this resolve to the states of the Massachusetts Bay, Con-
necticut and New Hampshire.
Whereas, it is the opinion of this Assembly, that it is
highly necessary, for the defence, of Rhode Island in par-
ticular, and of this state, in general, to keep open the pas-
sage at Bristol and Howland's Ferries ; and that two strong-
fort ifications be erected at or near each of said ferries ; and
that it will be expedient to take off so many of the cannon
from Rhode Island, as may be necessary for those fortifi-
cations ; —
It is therefore voted and resolved, that one eighteen-
pounder, and two twelve-pounders, be left in the fort or bat-
tery, at Brenton's Point,
That one twenty-four-pounder, two eighteen-pounders, and
two twelve-pounders, be left in Fort Liberty ; and that one
twenty-four-pounder, two eighteen-pounders, and two twelve-
pounders, be left in the North Battery.
That all the cannon mounted on field-carriages, be also
left on Rhode Island ; and that all the rest of the cannon be
forthwith removed to the main land, namely :
Three of the heaviest cannon to Bristol Ferry, and three
to Howland's Ferry ; and as there are but two cannon now
at the battery, on Fox Point, near Providence, —
It is further resolved, that the remainder of the cannon so to
50 RECORDS OF THE COLONV OF RHODE ISLAND [NoV*
be removed, be removed to the said battery, at Fox Point ;
that Daniel Mowry, Esq., be, and he is hereby, appointed
to see the same removed, accordingly ; that Col. Cooke af-
ford him all necessary assistance, with the soldiery under his
command, in removing the same ; that the galleys be used
for conveying said cannon.
That Col. Cooke, Col. Sayles, the said Daniel Mowry and
Mr. Joseph Brown, or the major part of them, be, and they
are hereby, appointed a committee, to plan, lay out and
erect said fortifications ; and that they also remove such ac-
coutrements, shot and cartridges, with said cannon so to be
removed, as they shall think proper ; paying a due regard
to what may be necessary for the cannon to be left on
Rhode Island.
It is voted and resolved, that the committee of safety
purchase, on the best terms they can, the woolens in the
hands of Mr. Daniel Tillinghast, for clothing the battalions
ordered to be raised by this state.
It is voted and resolved, that Thomas Church and Daniel
Rodman, Esqs., be, and they are hereby, appointed a com-
mittee, to proceed forthwith to New London, to negotiate
with any person or persons, authorized by Lord Howe, an
exchange of prisoners ; that they inquire into what powers
such person may have, for settling the exchange, and ap-
point the time and place when and where the exchange
shall be made.
And whereas, there is a number of masters of vessels,
mates, passengers, and apprentices, subjects of the King of
Great Britain, now enlarged upon parole, with permission to
proceed to Great Britain, in a vessel by them purchased, —
Resolved, that the said committee take an authentic list
of their names and stations, and confer with the person or
persons so authorized by Lord Howe, as aforesaid, whether
if said persons be permitted to proceed from this state, as
aforesaid, they will be considered as so many prisoners de-
livered up to Lord Howe ; that upon the conditions of ex-
change being agreed upon, His Honor the Governor be re-
1770.] AMi PROVIDENCE PLANTATIONS. 51
quested to order all the prisoners in this state, that arc not
under said parole, to be collected together, and sent under
proper guard, to the place agreed on, for the exchange,
aforesaid ; observing first to exchange the prisoners belong-
ing to this state ; and then for prisoners helonging to the
United States, in general.
That if the persons so having obtained permission, shall
he considered as prisoners delivered to Lord Howe, that then
those masters, mates, &c, now under said parole, he per-
mitted to proceed, accordingly ; that otherwise, His Honor
the Governor, with Messrs. John Jenckes and John Brown,
be empowered to suffer all, or so many of them to depart,
according to their present parole, as they shall think
proper; and that report be made by the said Thomas
Church and Daniel Rodman, to His Honor the Governor, as
soon as may be.
Whereas, the Continental Congress, on the 31st of Octo-
ber, 1776, did resolve, —
That whereas, it was represented to Congress, that sundry
inhabitants of these United States, to keep supplies from
the army, or promote their own interest, have purchased
considerable quantities of clothing, and refuse to dispose of
the same, unless upon extravagant and unreasonable terms ;
that it be recommended to the Assemblies, Conventions,
Councils or committees of safety of the several states, forth-
with to take such suitable measures for obtaining for the use
of the army, such necessary articles, as being thus engrossed
in their respective states, cannot be otherwise immediately
procured, allowing to the owners reasonable prices for the
same ; and that laws be provided in each of the states, for
effectually preventing monopolies of necessaries for the
army, or inhabitants of the same.
It is therefore voted and resolved, that the Hon. William
Bradford, Esq., Henry Marchant and Jonathan Arnold, Esqs.,
be, and they are hereby, appointed a committee, to draw^up
an act for preventing the like abuses for the future, and for
the due punishment of all monopolizers and extortioners.
52 RECORDS OF THE STATE OF RHODE ISLAND [Nov.
within this state ; especially of such .articles as are neces-
sary for the clothing and equipping the soldiers, and of all
naval and warlike stores.
That said commitee consult thereupon, with the commit-
tees that shall convene at Providence, for the regulation of
the currency ; and that they make report to this Assembly,
as soon as may be.
It is voted and resolved, that the committee appointed at
the last session, to act during the recess of the General As-
sembly, be continued for the purposes for which they were
appointed, until the sitting of this Assembly, at the next
session.
It is voted and resolved, that Col. Sylvester Child deliver
to Mr. John Smith, for the use of the county of Providence,
the salt he has in his hands, besides the proportion belong-
ing to the county of Bristol.
It is voted and resolved, that the guns belonging to this
state, be distributed to the committees of safety, according
to the proportion of the male inhabitants of sixteen years
of age, and upwards, as last estimated within their respec-
tive counties.
It is voted and resolved, that for every bushel of salt de-
livered by Col. Sylvester Child to the several towns within
this state, excepting for the salt ordered by this Assembly
to be delivered to Mr. John Smith, for the county of Provi-
dence, he be allowed sixpence ; and that he retain as much
salt as the same amounts to, at and after the rate of five
shillings and sixpence per bushel, until a distribution thereof
is made.
It is voted and resolved, that Mr. Daniel Cahoon be, and
he is hereby, appointed (in the room of His Honor the Gov-
ernor, who declines,) a committee-man, to join with Mr. John
Jenckes, in fitting out and sending away the ship purchased
by this state, to fetch salt, with the greatest dispatch.
Whereas, Col. Joseph Stanton, Jr., hath informed this As-
sembly that he hath chartered a vessel to send for salt, and
that said vessel is unable to proceed on her voyage, for want
177f».] AND PROVIDENCE PLANTATIONS. 53
of sails, and hath requested this Assembly to furnish him
with duck, for the purpose, aforesaid, —
It is therefore voted and resolved, that Mr. John Jenckes
deliver to the said Joseph eight holts of the duck now in his
hands, belonging to this state, at $30 per bolt; and that the
said Joseph pay the amount thereof, at the rate, aforesaid,
into the general treasury.
It is voted and resolved, that the committee appointed by
this Assembly, to meet committees from the other New
England states, respecting the currency, be requested to de-
sire those committees to agitate in their respective legisla-
tures the necessity of laying an embargo throughout the
said states, until the forces proportioned to the said states,
are raised, and the Continental ships within the same are
manned, and to obtain the sentiments of their respective
legislatures thereon, as soon as may be, and make report to
this Assembly, at the next session.
Bilk fa be Paid.
£ s. d.
John Dexter, for services and expenses in taking an account of the number
of the inhabitants of the town of Cumberland 2 14 00
John Dexter, for his time and expenses in furnishing the escutcheons, en-
graved for lawful money bills 4 10 00
Noah Smith, for his time and expenses in warning the members of the Gen-
eral Assemblj', in the county of Providence, to attend the present session
of the General Assembly 2 08 00
Pardon Allen, for his time and expenses in carrying letters from South
Kingstown, to the Governor, at Providence 1 08 00
Daniel Rodman, for his time and expenses in taking an account of the num-
ber of the inhabitants of the town of South Kingstown 4 10 00
Cromel Child, for five hundred weight of cordage 45 00 00
Joseph Coggesball, for his time and expenses in taking an account of the
number of inhabitants of the town of North Kingstown 4 01 00
Col. Henry Babeock, for payment to Sergeant Gardner, who went express to
General Washington 20 00 00
Thomas Spencer, for sundry services rendered at East Greenwich, during
the session of the General Assembly 14 00
William Sweet, for his attendance on the General Assembly, at this session, 14 00
Arnold Stafford, " " " " " " 14 00
God save the United States of America.
54 RECORDS OF THE STATE OF RHODE ISLAND [NOV.
The Governor of Bhoile Island to General Washington,
Providence, November G, 1776.*
Sir : — The General Assembly of this state have ordered two battalions to be imme-
diately- raised, agreeably to the requsition of the Honorable Continental Congress, sig-
nified to them in a letter from the president of that august body.
Congress recommended that a committee should be appointed and repair to the army,
and there appoint the officers. But as Your Excellency was pleased to enclose in your
favor of the 12th ultimo, a list of such gentlemen, as would be agreeable to you to
receive commissions, the General Assembly strictly adhered to your nomination,
although Lieutenant Pendleton and Lieutenant Crandell belong to the state of Con-
necticut ; and Ensign H unwell to Massachusetts Bay. Co'. Varnum is complimented
with a commission by this state ; but as Gen. Greene, in his letter, has signified that
Col. Varnum will decline the appointment, the vacancy can be filled with Col. Greene,
who was in the Canada expedition ; the General Assembly have not appointed any of
those gentlemen who are now upon their parole, but leave that trouble for Your Ex-
cellency and General Greene to do, as soon as they may consistently with honor re-
ceive commissions.
Your Excellency was pleased to mention the advantages that would result to the
army, by a judicious choice of men of strict honor and reputation, to officer the two
battalions.
The General Assembly are very sensible of the great benefit that will arise, by having
such men only appointed ; and as the officers in the two old battalions have been immedi-
ately under Your Excellency's command ; and the two battalions, heretofore raised by
this state, have now joined the army, the General Assembly could devise no better
means of effecting that salutary measure, than referring the filling up of all vacancies
in the two battalions now raising, to Your Excellency and Gen. Greene.
We desire that the officers nominated, may belong to this state, as we suppose this
to be the meaning of Congress, and request Your Excellency that those appointed may
immediately enlist every man possible, belonging to the four Rhode Island battalions,
in order to complete this state's quota ; and that you would be pleased to give every
necessary indulgence to the enlisting officers that can be consistently done, to effect the
same.
The Assembly requests that Your Excellency would immediately dispatch as many
recruiting officers to this state, as can well be spared from duty, in order to effect the
completing of the battalions, if they cannot be re-enlisted out of the Rhode Island
forces now in the army. Attention will be paid to the officers sent upon this occasion,
that they be such as are most likely to succeed in the business. The General Assem-
bly being extremely anxious that the two battalions should be forthwith raised, have, as a
farther encouragement for the soldiers to enlist, granted a bounty of 820 to be paid by
this state to each and every non-commissioned officer and private soldier who shall so
enlist, over and above the provision made for them by Congress.
Messrs. Haszard and Holden, the bearers, will deliver to Your Excellency blank
commissions for the officers, which you will please to cause to be immediately filled
and delivered to the gentlemen you approbate.
Your Excellency will be pleased to excuse the trouble that the General Assembly
have laid on you, from the necessity, they not knowing who will accept of commissions.
Messrs. Haszard and Holden are appointed paymasters to the battalions ordered to
* This letter is referred to in the proceedings of the General Assembly, in the October session,
on page 21, of tins volume.
1776,]
AND PROVIDENCE PLANTATIONS. •")•">
be raised by this state ; and are furnished with money to pay the extra bounty allowed
by this state, and are to assist in enlisting the men. At the request, and in behalf of
the General Assembly —
I have the honor to subscribe myself with great esteem and respect,
Your Excellency's most obedient, hninble servant,
NICHOLAS COOKE.
To His Excellency General Washington.
The Governor of Rhode Island to the Governor of Connecticut.
Providence, 18th November, 177G.
Sir : — I enclose you a copy of a letter from Major General Lee, which I received last
night ; you will observe the contents.
I could request Your Honor to be pleased to make every necessary preparation U)
to give such assistance to this state in case of an attack, as you can afford. I doubt
not, sir, if needed, but you will cheerfully lend us all the aid in your power.
I am, &c., &c, NICHOLAS COOKE.
To Governor Trumbull.
[A similar letter was written by Governor Cooke to the General Court of the Mas
sachusetts Bay.]
Gen. Lee to the Governor of Rhode Island.
Camp North Castle, November 14th, 1776.
Dear Sir : — There is no doubt of a considerable force being embarked, or about to
embark, on Staten Island. They give out that South Carolina is the place of their des-
tination ; but as it is not impossible, or improbable, that they may have some designs
against Rhode Island, either on a pillaging scheme, or perhaps with a view of establish-
ing winter quarters for a part of the troops, as they find themselves straightened at New
York, I think it my duty to apprize Your Honor of their preparations, that you may be
upon your guard, either by removing your stock, fortifying yourselves or, in short, by
taking such measures as your wisdom shall dictate for the welfare of America, and your
particular security.
I beg you to give my respects to the gentlemen of your Council, to the province at
large, and that you will personally be assured that I am, dear sir,
Your most obedient servant,
CHARLES LEE.
To His Excellency Governor Cooke.
Gen. Lee to the Governor of Rhode Island.
Camp Phillipsburg, 27th November, 1776.
Sir : — As the whole fate of America depends on the speedy completion of the new
army, all considerations ought undoubtedly to be postponed to this object.
The officers, and indeed it must necessarily be so, are of opinion that nothing impedes
the recruiting of the army so much, as the present rage for privateering ; that unless
this is in some measure checked, it is vain to expect any success.
56 RECORDS OF THE STATE OF RHODE ISLAM) [DEC.
I would, therefore, humbly refer to your consideration whether it is not expedient to
lay a temporary embargo on privateering until the regiments of each state are com-
pleted. Our situation is so delicate and alarming, and the absolute necessity of the
army being raised without delay, so obvious, that you will at least excuse the liberty
I take in proposing the only mode which occurs to me.
I am, sir, with the greatest respect,
Your most obedient, humble servant,
CHARLES LEE.
To the Hon. Nicholas Cooke, Esq., Governor of the state of Rhode Island.
Proceedings of the General Assembly, held for the State of Rhode
Island and Providence Plantations, at East Greenwich, on Tues-
day, the 10M day of December, 1776.
The Hon. Nicholas Cooke, Governor.
The Hon. William Bradford, Deputy Governor.
Be it enacted by the General Assembly, and by the au-
thority thereof it is enacted, that for the future, His Honor
the Governor and Deputy Governor, for the time being, and
three assistants, or His Honor the Governor, or in his ab-
sence, the Deputy Governor, with four assistants, shall con-
stitute a quorum of the upper house of Assembly; and that
twenty-one deputies shall constitute a quorum of the lower
house of Assembly of this state ; any law, custom or usage
to the contrary, notwithstanding.
Whereas, a large body of the enemy have taken posses-
sion of the island of Rhode Island, and are endeavoring to
penetrate the country ; so that it has become necessary, for
the public utility of this state, that a council of war be im-
mediately appointed.
Therefore, voted and resolved, that His Honor the Gov-
ernor, His Honor the Deputy Governor, the Honorable Ste-
phen Hopkins, Esq., Ambrose Page, Esq., Mr. John Tanner,
John Dexter, Esq., the Honorable Joshua Babcock, Esq., Mr.
Cromel Child, the Honorable William Greene, Esq., and
1776.] AND PROVIDENCE PLANTATIONS. 57
Henry Ward, Esq., be, and they are hereby, appointed a
council of war.
That they, or any five of them, are fully empowered to
do, act and transact, all and every thing and matter for the
well-being and security of this state, and the United States,
in general.
That they make and ordain all such rules, orders and reg-
ulations, for the well-governing, ordering, disciplining, cloth-
ing and supplying the army, now raised, or that may be
raised by this state, and the other neighboring states in
conjunction (if such an army should be so raised), as to
them shall seem right and just ; and that all such rules,
orders and regulations, by them made in the recess of the
General Assembly, shall be of as full force and authority, to
all intents and purposes, as though made and passed by this
General Assembly.
It is voted and resolved, that His Honor the Governor be
requested to write to the states of New Hampshire, Massa-
chusetts Bay and Connecticut, enclosing the resolve of this
General Assembly, appointing a council of war, and request-
ing that each of said states appoint a committee to meet on
the 23d of this instant, or as much sooner as possible, in the
town of Providence, in this state, with said council of war,
to confer upon the expediency of raising an army, for im-
mediate defence against the British fleet and army now
within this state, whereby the militia ma}* be relieved ; and
in general, to consult upon every measure necessary to be
taken for the support of the common cause.
It is voted and resolved, that the militia of the town of
Little Compton be forthwith removed, and stationed within
said town, in such places as Col. Thomas Church shall
direct; and that the said Thomas Church procure such
boats as shall be necessary for guarding the sea-coast of said
town.
It is voted and resolved, that Col. John Mathewson de-
liver to Mr. Henry Wall two half-barrels of powder for the
VOL. VIII, 8
58 RECORDS OF THE STATE OF RHODE ISLAND [DEC.
town of South Kingstown; and two half-barrels for the town
of North Kingstown.
It is voted and resolved, that it be, and it is hereby, re-
commended to the inhabitants on Boston Neck and Point
Judith, forthwith to remove their grain, hay and stock, from
said Boston Neck and Point Judith ; and upon their neg-
lecting so to do, the Colonels Noyes, Sands and Stanton,
they, and each of them, with the troops under their com-
mand, are hereby ordered immediately to remove the same
to such places as they shall judge best, and most safe, and
place them out to be kept in the best manner they may be
able, which shall be at the proper and only expense of the
proprietors of said grain, stock and hay ; and said grain,
stock and hay shall be liable therefor ; and a sufficient part,
thereof, shall be withheld by this state, until the charge,
thereof, be satisfied and paid.
That the troops of horse from Connecticut, and in this
state, be stationed in the county of King's county, at and
near Boston Neck and Point Judith ; and they are required
to aid and assist in guarding the shores, and in driving off
and removing said grain, stock and hay ; and the said
Colonels Noyes, Sands and Stanton are hereby required to
secure all the boats upon the coast in King's county, and
place them in such parts as may be most for the general
safety, and the public service.
It is voted and resolved, that Henry Marchant, Jonathan
Arnold and Thomas Wells, Esqs., and Messrs. Sylvester
Child and Thomas Holden, be, and they are hereby, ap-
pointed a committee, they, or the major part of them, to
draw a bill for fixing the prices of all necessary supplies for
the army, within or without this state, and the inhabitants,
thereof; and that they make report, thereof, to this Assem-
bly, at the next session, or as much sooner, as may be.
It is voted and resolved, that two regiments, consisting of
seven hundred and fifty men each ; and one regiment of artil-
lery, consisting of five companies of sixty men each, be forth
1776.] AND PROVIDENCE PLANTATIONS. 59
with raised, for the defence of this, and the other United
States.
That Theodore Foster and Daniel Rodman, Esqs., with
the secretary of this state, be a committee, to draught a bill
for that purpose ; and that they make report as soon as
may be.
It is voted and resolved, that Mr. John Jenckes be, and
and he is hereby, empowered to purchase the goods which
were brought into Providence, in the prize vessel called the
Friendship, that were stopped by this state, of the agent
and owners of the private sloop-of-war which captured the
same, on the best terms possible, in behalf of the government.
Both houses being resolved into a grand committee,
chose the following officers, to wit :
Assistants and Militia Officers Chosen.
Ebenezer Slocum, captain ; Daniel Deval, lieutenant ; and
Jacob Soule, ensign, of the second company of inilitia in the
town of Tiverton.
John Jenckes, Esq., fifth assistant, in the room of John
Jepson, Esq., who is now upon the island of Rhode Island,
which is possessed by the enemy.
Daniel Cahoon, Esq., fifth assistant, in the room of the
said John Jenckes, Esq., who refused, engaged.
It is voted and resolved, that one company of militia of
the town of Westerly, and one company of militia of the
town of Charlestown, be removed from South Kingstown,
and be stationed hi their respective towns.
It is voted and resolved, that Col. Joseph Noyes and Col.
Ray Sands, be directed forthwith to accompany tlie troops
of horse stationed at Boston Neck and Point Judith ; and
that they procure convenient quarters for said troops as
nigh said places as possible.
It is voted and resolved, that this state will purchase of
His Honor the Governor, and Mr. John Brown, the flour
60 RECORDS OF THE STATE OF RHODE ISLAND [DeC,
they have to dispose of, at thirty shillings, lawful money,
for every hundred weight ; that His Honor the Deputy
Governor, receive the flour of Mr. John Brown, or his
order, at Bedford ; that Col. Samuel Aborn, receive of His
Honor the Governor, at Pawtuxet, the flour he has to dispose
of; and that they draw orders for the same, at the rate,
aforesaid, on the o-eneral treasurer.
It is voted and resolved, that Peter Phillips, Esq., be, and
he is hereby, directed to deliver to Jonathan Haszard, Esq.,
all such clothing as he hath now in his hands, that said
Haszard shall think necessary for the two battalions now
raising by this state, for the Continental service ; and that
said Haszard be, and he is hereby, directed to send said
clothing forward to the western Army.
Whereas, it hath been represented unto this Assembly,
by Daniel Rodman, Esq., that a considerable quantity of
woolens and flannels, which were bought and paid for, by
Metcalfe Bowler, Esq., for the use of this state, are nigh the
South Ferry, in South Kingstown, —
It is therefore voted and resolved, that the said Daniel
Rodman, together with the committees of safety for Kings
county, be, and they are hereby, empoAvered to procure the
same to be forthwith made up into such clothing as they may
think most necessary for the soldiers of this state ; and that
the same be supplied and delivered to the soldiers, at the
first cost, by the committees of safety, aforesaid.
It is voted and resolved, that the Colonels Noyes, Sands
and Stanton, be, and they are hereby, empowered and di-
rected to take up and confine all such persons, as shall in a
wilful manner oppose the order of this Assembly, with re-
spect to removing grain, hay and stock off from Boston
Neck and Point Judith, and as soon as may be, convey them
to some interior part of this state, and keep them under a
sufficient guard, until an order of this Assembly can be
made respecting them ; and that one regiment of troops be
ordered to Kings county, who, together with the troops and
1776.] AND PROVIDENCE PLANTATIONS. 61
cavalry already ordered and stationed there, are hereby di-
rected to afford every assistance necessary to carry this re-
solve into execution.
It is voted and resolved, that His Honor the Governor
be, and he is hereby, empowered to grant commissions for
privateers, or letters of marque and reprisal, to any for-
eigners who may apply for the same ; they first giving
bond, with sufficient sureties from any of the United States,
for their due observance of the resolves of Congress, and
acts of this state, respecting privateers and letters of marque
and reprisal ; any law, custom or usage, to the contrary,
notwithstanding.
An Act for raising, embodying, supplying and paying, two
regiments of infantry, each consisting of seven hundred
and fifty men ; and a regiment or train of artillery, con-
sisting of three hundred men, for the defence of the
United States, in general, and of this state, in particular.
Whereas, our enemies have invaded this state, with a
powerful armament, and are now in possession of the island
of Rhode Island, whereby we are imminently exposed to
still more hostile attacks, which renders it necessary that a
considerable addition be made to the forces of this state, —
Be it therefore enacted by this General Assembly, and by
the authority thereof it is enacted, that two regiments of in-
fantry, each consisting of seven hundred and fifty men,
including officers ; as also a regiment of artillery, consisting
of three hundred men, officers included, be immediately
raised, for the defence of the United States, in general; and
of this state, in particular.
That the said three regiments be formed into one brigade,
under the command of a general.
That each regiment be commanded by one colonel, one
lieutenant colonel, and one major.
That there be appointed for each regiment one adjutant,
one surgeon and one surgeon's mate.
62 RECORDS OF THE STATE OF RHODE ISLAM) [DeC.
That each of the regiments of infantry consist of eight
companies, which shall be commanded by one captain, two
lieutenants and one ensign.
And that the said regiment of artillery consist of five
companies, which shall be commanded by one captain, and
such other officers as shall be hereafter appointed.
And be it further enacted by the authority aforesaid, that
each able bodied, effective man, who shall enlist himself
into either of said regiments, shall be furnished with one
blanket, a knapsack, a gun, bayonet, cartouch-box and
canteen ; and that he be allowed £6, lawful money, as a
bounty.
And if any man, who shall enlist himself, as aforesaid,
shall furnish himself with a gun, bayonet, cartouch-box,
blanket, knapsack and canteen, he shall be allowed therefor,
the sums following, that is to say :
Eighteen shillings for a gun, bayonet and cartouch-box ;
twenty-four shillings for a blanket ; four shillings and six-
pence, for a knapsack ; and two shillings for a canteen.
And if any man, who shall be enlisted into either of said
regiments, shall not be approved of by the muster-master of
the regiment into which he may be enlisted, all sum or
sums of money which he shall have received, shall be de-
ducted from the wages of the officer who shall enlist him.
And be it further enacted by the authority aforesaid, that
each officer appointed in said regiments, shall be entitled to,
and receive, the same wages as officers of the same rank in
the Continental service ; and that every person who shall
enlist as a soldier into either of said regiments, shall be al-
lowed and paid as wages, £3, per month.
And be it further enacted by the authority aforesaid, that
each able-bodied man, who shall enlist himself into either of
said regiments, shall be allowed twelve shillings per week,
after enlistment, and before they shall be embodied ; and
that they be embodied within one week after they shall be
enlisted.
1776.] AND PROVIDENCE PLANTATIONS. 63
And be it further enacted by the authority aforesaid, that
the officers and soldiers engaged, as aforesaid, shall receive
their pay monthly.
That each soldier be paid one month's wages in advance,
upon enlistment ; and that six shillings, lawful money, be
allowed and paid to every officer, for every able-bodied and
effective man, who shall be enlisted by him into either of
said regiments.
And be it further enacted by the authority aforesaid, that
the officers and soldiers, when embodied, as aforesaid, shall
be under the same rules, orders and regulations, as those of
the Continental army ; and that each field-officer and captain
be furnished with printed copies, thereof.
And be it further enacted by the authority aforesaid, that
each soldier be enlisted by signing the following enlistment,
to wit :
Form of Enlistment for the Soldiers.
" I, the subscriber, do hereby solemnly engage and enlist my-
self as a soldier, in the pay of the state of Rhode Island and
Providence Plantations, for the preservation of the liberties
of America, and the defence of the United States in general,
and of this state, in particular, from the day of my enlist-
ment during the term of fifteen months, unless sooner dis-
charged by this General Assembly ; 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 time to time, from my officers."
And be it further enacted by the authority aforesaid, that
no officer or soldier be arrested, prosecuted or detained in
jail, for any debt, whatsover, less than <£15, lawful money,
due to one creditor ; and that every apprentice who shall
enlist into either of said regiments, shall be entitled to, and
receive, the whole of his bounty and wages.
And be it further enacted by the authority aforesaid, that
64 RECORDS OF THE STATE OF RHODE ISLAND [DEC.
a quartermaster be appointed to each regiment, to supply
the said troops with clothing and other necessaries as shall
be provided by this state, for the use of said regiments, at
such prices as shall be established by this Assembly, or by
the council of war, appointed to act in the recess, thereof.
Provided, said quartermaster deliver nothing to any sol-
dier without an order from the captain, or commanding offi-
cer of the company, for the time being, to which such
soldier belongs ; and that no order be drawn on the quar-
termaster for any sum exceeding the wages which shall be
then due to the soldier applying for the same.
Both houses being resolved into a grand committee, made
choice of the following officers, to wit :
Officers chosen for the two Regiments.
James Mitchell Varnum, Esq., brigadier general of all the
forces now raised, or to be raised, within this state.
Monsieur Francois Lellorquis De Malmedy, chief engineer
and director of the works of defence within this state, with
the rank of brigadier general.
John Cooke, Esq., colonel of one of the regiments of in-
fantry now ordered to be raised for fifteen months.
Benjamin Talman, Esq., lieutenant colonel of the same
regiment.
William Bradford, Jr., Esq., major of the same regiment.
Joseph Stanton, Jr., Esq., colonel of the other regiment of
infantry, now ordered to be raised for fifteen months.
Archibald Crary, Esq., lieutenant colonel of the same
regiment.
William Barton, Esq., major of the same regiment.
Robert Elliott, Esq., colonel ; William Wall, Esq., lieuten-
ant colonel ; and Job Pierce, Esq., major, of the regiment of
the train of artillery.
Ebenezer Adams, Gideon Westcott, Jabez Westcott, Jr.,
Samuel Sweet and John Tillinghast, captains of the several
companies in the regiment of the train of artillery.
1776.] AND PROVIDENCE PLANTATIONS. 65
Jonathan Clarke, Esq., linguist to Brigadier General De
Malmedy, with the rank and pay of a major.
Abimelech Riggs, Caleb Carr, Reuben Ballon, James
Williams, James Parker and Thomas Allin, captains in Col.
Cooke's regiment.
Joseph Nightingale, Esq., major general of the militia of
this state, in the room of Joshua Babcock, Esq., who is ap-
pointed one of the council of war.
Thomas Thompson, Royzel Smith, Malachi Hammett,
George Thurston, Jr.. Peleg Slocum and William Roy, cap-
tains in Col. Stanton's regiment.
Henry Alexander, first lieutenant in Captain Riggs's
company.
Ebenezer Macomber, first lieutenant in Captain Carrs
company.
Squire Fiske, first lieutenant in Capt. Ballous company.
Jacob Belknap, first lieutenant in Captain Williams's
company.
Benjamin Church, first lieutenant in Captain Parker's
company.
William Lawless, first lieutenant in Captain Allin's
company.
Peleg Berry, first lieutenant in Captain Thompson's
company.
William Coon, Jr., first lieutenant in Captain Smith's
company.
Micah Whitmarsh, first lieutenant in Captain Hammett's
company.
Beriah Lewis, first lieutenant in Captain Thurston's
company.
Benjamin Gorton, second lieutenant in Captain Williams's
company.
Edward Crandall, second lieutenant in Captain Smith's
company.
It is voted and resolved, that the general treasurer be,
and he is hereby, empowered to hire, in behalf of this .state,
£30.000, lawful money, at and after the rate of four per
VOL- VIII. V
fi6 RECORDS OF THE STATE OF RHODE ISLAND [DEC,
cent., per annum ; and that he give his notes, therefor, pay-
able on demand.
It is voted and resolved, that three shillings per day, be
allowed to every person who appeared without arms in the
late alarm, upon their producing a certificate from their re-
spective town councils, that they were unable to furnish
themselves.
It is voted and resolved, that each and every soldier of
the independent companies, and companies of militia ; and
the soldiers upon the alarm list, who have been upon actual
duty upon the late alarm within this state, properly
equipped as by law required, shall be entitled to, and re-
ceive, three shillings per clay, for each and every day they
have been, and shall continue, in actual service ; and that
each and every officer who hath been upon duty, as afore-
said, shall have his wages augmented in the same propor-
tion as the soldiers are; that is, fifty per cent.
It is voted and resolved, that the sheriff of the county of
Bristol, be, and he is hereby, directed to take possession, in
behalf of this state, of the real estates in said county, be-
longing to William Vassal, Isaac Royal and Thomas Palmer,
Esqs., who are suspected of being enemies to the United
States.
That the sheriff for the county of Providence take posses-
sion of two horses belonging to said Vassal, now in Providence ;
and that Messrs. John Waldron and Matthew Cushing render
an account to this Assembly, at their next session, of the goods
in their possession, belonging to either of the aforenamed
persons ; and the commanding officer in the county of Bris-
tol, is directed to cut as much wood off said estates as shall
be wanted for the use of the troops stationed in the towns of
Bristol and Warren ; keeping an account of the quantity,
and making as little waste as possible.
And it is further resolved, that the estate of John Borland,
deceased, in said county of Bristol, be also taken possession
of by the said sheriff, in behalf of this state ; and that Mr.
Nathaniel Pierce, who has improved said estate, account
1770.] AND PROVIDENCE PLANTATIONS. 67
with the treasurer, forthwith, for the rents and profits of said
estate, now in his hands.
It is voted and resolved, that the alarm-list, in each town
within this state, be embodied into a separate company, to
be led by one captain, two lieutenants and one ensign, to
be chosen by the company so embodied.
That said company do equip themselves, and be commis-
sioned by His Honor the Governor ; and that the officers,
aforesaid, take rank with the several independent companies
within this state, and do duty, accordingly.
Whereas, Simeon Potter, Esq., one of the assistants of
this state, hath neglected to attend this Assembly, for sev-
eral sessions, last past ; and whereas, it is necessary, in the
present critical situation of our public affairs, that the mem-
bers of the Assembly should give their attendance, —
It is therefore voted and resolved, that Mr. Cromel Child,
be, and he is hereby, appointed to wait on the said Simeon
Potter, Esq. ; that he request him to render his reasons for
absenting himself from this Assembly ; and that he give his
attendance, if he see fit, at the next session of this Assembly.
It is voted and resolved, that the committee of safety pay
the accounts that may be presented to them, for victualling
and lodging the troops that have inarched to the assistance
of this state, upon the late alarm, if the same appear to
them just and reasonable ; and that they allow one shilling
for a meal, and twopence for a night's lodging.
It is voted and resolved, that the act permitting inocula-
tion within this state, be, and the same is hereby, repealed.
That the civil authority use their utmost endeavors that
all offenders against former acts, respecting the spreading
infectious diseases, be brought to condign punishment, agree-
ably to the penalties annexed to the breach of said acts.
That this resolve be in force two days after the rising of
this Assembly ; and that it be published in the next Provi-
dence Gazette.
Whereas, Brigadier General Malmedy hath represented
unto this Assembly, that on the 19th day of September last,
68 RECORDS OF THE Si' ATE OF RHODE ISLAND [Dec,
he was, by order of Congress, appointed in the Continental
service, and in which he hath continued until the 13th of
December current, when he arrived in the town of Provi-
dence ; that exclusive of his pay and rations received, there,
still remains a balance in his favor, of the sum of $45, for
which he requested this Assembly to order him payment ;
and the same being duly considered, — -
It is voted and resolved, that the aforesaid sum of $45,
be paid unto the said General Malmedy, by either of the
committee of safety, within this state.
God save the United States of America,
Gen. Schuyler to the Governor of Rhode Island.
Saratoga, December 3d, 1776.
Sir : — The term of enlistment of the troops that now garrison Ticonderoga, Fort
George, &c., will expire on the last day of this month ; and I fear they cannot be pre-
vailed upon to remain there after that.
It is therefore of the utmost consequence, that troops should be expedited to this
department the soonest possible; and agreeably to the enclosed resolution of Congress,
I do myself the honor to entreat you to order such parts of each regiment to be raised
in your state, for this department, as can be got ready to march, so as that they may
arrive at Albany by the latter end of this month.
As it is impossible to prevent the enemy from gaining intelligence of what passes in
this quarter, should the troops now at Ticonderoga leave it before others come up to
relieve them, General Carlton will doubtless take the advantage of it, and possess him*
self of that important post ; and what the consequences would be, are easily conceived.
I do not therefore doubt but that every exertion will be made by your state to hasten
on the troops- I am, sir, Very respectfully,
Your obedient, humble, servant,
PH. SCHUYLER.
To the Honorable Governor Cooke, &c, &Ci
Artemas Ward, of Massachusetts, to the Governor of Rhode Island,
Boston, 3d December, 177(5.
Sir : — Your favor of this day,* I have just received, informing me that you apprehend
an attack from the enemy.
As the most of the troops that have been stationed here, are dismissed, it is not in
my power, at present, to afford you any assistance- This state has ordered a part of
the militia of three counties to march to your assistance, which I hope will be a suffi-
cient reinforcement. I shall be ready at all times to afford your state all the assistance
in my power. i am, sir, your obedient, humble servant,
ARTEMAS WARD.
To the Hon. Nicholas Cooke, Esq.
* The letter of Governor Cooke to Artemas Ward, here referred to, is not found in the public
archive?.
1776,]
AND PBOVIDENCE PLANTATIONS, 60
Commodore Hopkins to the Governor of Rhode Island,
Providence, December 4th, 1776.
( Jentlemen : — 1 received your resolve of this day, and note the contents of It. I now
let you know I have long had orders from the honorable marine committee to get all
the vessels out as soon as I could man them.
I should he glad that your honorable board would devise some way to compel!
their men to enlist ; and likewise someway that the great number of deserters may be
sent on board, a considerable number of whom are now in this state.
I am, gentlemen, your most obedient, humble servant,
ESEK HOPKINS.
To the Honorable Nicholas Cooke, Esq., Governor of the
state of Rhode Island ; to be laid before the committee
of said state.
Resolve of the Committee of Safety of the State of Rhode Island.
Unanimously resolved, by all the members of the upper and lower houses of Assem-
bly, now present, to wit :
His Honor the Governor, and three of his Council, and eleven members of the Gen*
eral Assembly, that we will, and do hereby, advise Commodore Hopkins, with the
Continental vessels under his command, within any of the harbors of this state, to put
to sea as soon as he thinks the same can be done with safety.
A copy of an order of part of the committee appointed to act in the recess of the As-
sembly, in December, 1776. HENRY WARD, Secretary.
The Governor of Rhode Island to Commodore Hopkins.
Providence, December 4th, 1776.
Commodore Hopkins, Sir : — Yours, of this date, is before us; by which, we observe
you have orders from the honorable marine committee, to get all the vessels under*
your command out as soon as 3-ou could man them : and as you request of us to devise
some method to complete the same, we do assure you that nothing in our power, in a
constitutional way, shall be wanting to effect so desirable an object, as the sailing of
the new frigates ; and recommend that the strictest punctuality be attended to : that
every man in the naval department be, as soon as possible, paid off both his wages and
shares of all prizes heretofore taken ; which will be a great inducement for other men
to engage in the service.
We are not now a committee, but as soon as we are, make no doubt we shall resolve
that all the officers both civil and military, within this state, give every assistance in
their power to your officers, to get their men on board ; and hope more care will be
taken to keep them there, till the ships sail, than has been heretofore used ; and if you
have not a full complement of men to attack ships of any considerable force, we think
it advisable, if you have a sufficient number to navigate the ships with safety round
into Boston Bay, to join the Continental ships there, that you immediately proceed.
We make no doubt that the state of the Massachusetts Bay Would assist the comple-
tion of your complement of men in a more speedy manner than 'tis in the power of
this small state to do (whose men are already so greatly exhausted) ; if not, they will
then be in a place of safety, and may be rendered serviceable whenever fully manned ;
70 RECORDS OF THE STATE OF RHODE ISLAND [DEC.
which if they remain here, cannot he, provided this harhor is blockaded, which is
hourly expected.
All the deserters from your ships that can be found in this state, shall be taken
up, and sent to you, to Boston, if you think proper to go there.
I am, &c, NICHOLAS COOKE.
To Commodore Hopkins.
The. Governor of Connecticut to the Governor of Rhode Island.
Lebanon, 4th December, 1774, \
Half-past 9 o'clock, A. M. (
Sir : — This moment, I received under cover with mine, the enclosed, for President
Bowdoin, of the Massachusetts ; coming open to me, have enclosed it to you, to observe
the contents, to seal and forward immediately by express.
General Lee was crossing the ferry nigh Peck's Hill, the 1st December, going into
the Jerseys. Rogers, the famous, or rather infamous Rogers, who commanded the
Rangers in the British service, is disgraced.
This state have declined meeting by commissioners at Providence, to consider and
join in measures for securing the bills of credit current in the states, against depreciat-
ing. The reasons were, that the Honorable Continental Congress were taking up the
subject, and the fears Ave had that such a step Avould occasion jealousies in the other
states, and endanger so cordial a union.
This state have made the Continental, and its own bills of credit, a legal tender in
all payments, and in the treasury.
A tax of sevenpence on the pound, in the public list, is made payable the 10th of
May next. The collecting warrants are now out ; the prices of the most essential arti-
cles are fixed, and an embargo laid on them. We wish to assist all in Our power for1
securing the rights of the United States.
I am, with great truth and regard,
Your most obedient, humble servant,
JONA. TRUMBULL.
To the Honorable Governor Cooke.
Commodore Hopkins to the Governor of Rhode Island.
Providence, December 5th, 177&
Sir:— Yours, of yesterday, I have just received; and I shall take it for granted,
that you will take every legal method to forward the manning of the ships ; and as to
what you infer with respect to the wages and prize money, I must now let you know
that I am not agent or paymaster ; that I have nothing to do in that matter, further
than to use my influence that right be done to every man in the navy.
I have no knowledge of any fraud in any officer under my command, and I believe
there is none.
I shall caution the officers to take care to keep the men on board ; although I believe
the greatest part of the desertion was before they ever came on board ; and as to what
you seem to desire, that the ships should go round to Boston, my orders will not admit
of such a step ; and if they would, I can see but little prospect of getting men there, as
I am well assured, that if one of the ships there had been manned, she would have
sailed before now. I am, sir, yours, and the members of the Assembly's
Most humble servant, ESEK HOPKINS.
To the Honorable Nicholas Cooke, Esq., to be laid
before such members as he may think fit.
1776.]
AND PROVIDENCE PLANTATIONS. 71
The Governor of Rhode Island to the Members of the General As-
sembly in Bristol County.
Providence, December 11th, 1770.
Gentlemen: — The absolute necessity of the General Assembly's meeting at this
time, is so very obvious, that it is needless for me to mention particulars.
The forces that are already arrived in this state, make it necessary that suitable
provision be made for them. Committees must be appointed to meet delegates from
the neighboring states, in order that proper magazines be established for the support
of the army ; indeed the very many and important things to be transacted at this
critical tame, will not admit of excuse from any member of either house.
I must therefore most earnestly entreat that His Honor the Deputy Governor, Mr.
Potter, Mr. Sayles, Mr. Church, together with every member of each house of As-
sembly in Bristol county, do immediately come to Providence ; which if they do, we
shall be able to constitute a house ; the most of the members who met this day at
Greenwich, have concluded to come here, and some of them have arrived.
Gentlemen, pray do not neglect coming, as the occasion is so very pressing ; you
may easily conceive the disadvantages that will occur at this time, if there are not
sufficient members to make a house. I am, gentlemen, &c,
NICHOLAS COOKE.
To the members of the General Assembly in Bristol county.
The General Assembly of Rhode Island to the States of Massachu-
setts, Connecticut and New Hampshire.
State of Rhode Island and Providence Plantations : j
In General Assembly. \
Providence, December 13th, 1776.
Honorable Gentlemen : — We have not as yet, perfect intelligence of the force of the
enemy upon Rhode Island ; but by the best accounts we have been able to collect,
their numbers do not exceed eight, nor fall short of five thousand men.
The militia of the Massachusetts Bay and Connecticut, with a spirit and an ardor
that does them honor, have marched to our assistance ; and with the militia of this
state, amount to between six and seven thousand, who are at present posted in many
different places round the bay, but without form ; not having a leader, nor any general
plan of offence or defence.
In this situation of affairs, being sensible that, although the blow hath first fallen upon
ns, the safety of New England, and perhaps the fate of America, depends upon establishing
an army with the utmost expedition, capable of opposing that body of the enemy, which
hath taken possession of Rhode Island ; and fully convinced that the authority of this
state will prove inadequate to the giving form to, and regulating an army collected from,
the different states ; and to the directing of their operations.
We have appointed a council of war, with full power to exert the force of this state,
in concurrence with committees that may be appointed from the other New England
states, in the necessary measures for the common defence.
72 RECORDS OF THE STATE OF RHODE ISLAND [DEC,
We transmit you, by express, a copy of the vote, not doubting your immediate at-
tention to this important object, and the most vigorous exertions of the powers of your
state, for the public safety. We are, honorable gentlemen,
Your most obedient, humble servants.
Signed at the request and in behalf of the General Assembly.
NICHOLAS COOKE.
To the Honorable General Court of the Massachusetts Bay,
Proceedings of the General Assembly, held for the State of Rhode
Island and Providence Plantations, at Providence, on Monday,
the 2ocl day of December, 1776.
The Hon. Nicholas Cooke, Governor.
The Hon. William Bradford, Deputy Governor.
It is voted and resolved, that it be, and hereby is, recom-
mended to Daniel Tillinghast, Esq., Continental agent in this
state, to supply Major General Lincoln with such Conti-
nental stores as are in his custody, and are necessary for
the troops under the command of the said Major General
Lincoln.
Whereas, it hath been represented to this Assembly, that
James Joseph Halleen, a French gentleman, now in this
state, hath purchased a schooner, which is now within this
state, and is desirous of proceeding with her to one of the
French West India islands. —
It is therefore voted and resolved, that he be permitted
to proceed with said vessel, manned only with Frenchmen,
on said voyage ; and that he take on board hoops, shingles,
and two hundred shaken casks, under the direction of His
Honor the Governor.
It is voted and resolved, that Capt, David Gifford be per-
mitted to proceed with a flag of truce to Rhode Island, un-
der the direction of His Honor the Governor, upon his
1776.] AND PROVIDENCE PLANTATIONS. 73
procuring three prisoners of war to exchange for three
soldiers lately belonging to his company, and now detained
as prisoners on said island.
It is voted and resolved, that the inhabitants of Point Ju-
dith and Boston Neck forthwith remove the grain and one-
eighth of the hay from the said Point Judith and Boston
Neck, to such places as the commanding officers, who are there
stationed, shall direct ; and that they remove their stock
upon the approach of the enemy, to such places as their hay
shall be removed to ; any resolve of this Assembly, to the
contrary hereof, notwithstanding.
Both houses being resolved into a grand committee, made
choice of the following officers, to wit :
Officers Chosen for the Militia.
Oliver Spink, ensign of the first company of militia, in
Exeter, in the room of Henry Reynolds, who refused.
Phineas Kinyon, captain of the third company of militia,
in Exeter, in the room of Daniel Barber, who refused to
sign the test,
Azariah Crandall, lieutenant of said company, in the room
of Phineas Kinyon, advanced.
Robert. Potter, ensign, of the first company of militia in the
town of Johnston, in the room of James Fenner, removed
out of town.
Thomas Clarke, major of the second regiment of militia,
in Kings county.
Smith Bowen, lieutenant of the company of militia, in the
town of Warren, in the room of John Ormsbee, who has left
the government.
Curtis Cole, ensign of said company, in the room of Smith
Bowen, advanced.
Peter Wright, captain ; and Sylvester Peirce, ensign, of
the first company in North Kingstown.
Asaph Bennet, captain of the fourth company of militia,
74 RECORDS OF THE COLONY OF RHODE ISLAND [DEC.
in the town of Coventry, in the room of Joseph Whipple,
who hath resigned.
Samuel Parker, ensign of said company, in the room of
Asaph Bennet, advanced.
Benjamin Tallman, Esq., colonel of the first regiment in
the brigade, ordered to be raised at the last session, in the
room of Col. John Cooke, who has resigned.
Christopher Smith, Esq., lieutenant colonel of said regiment.
Cyprian Sterry and Reuben Wightman, captains, in Col.
Tallman's regiment.
James Albro (in the room of George Thurston, Jr., who
has resigned) ; Josiah Gibbs (in the room of William Boy,
who has resigned); Benjamin West and Nathaniel Hawkins,
captains in Col. Stanton's regiment.
It is voted and resolved, that the clerk of the inferior
court of common pleas and general sessions of the peace,
for the county of Newport, be, and he is hereby, directed to
remove the records, files, &c, of said court, from Warren
(where they now are), to some safer place, farther distant from
Rhode Island, as soon as conveniently may be ; agreeably
to such advice as shall be given him by the deputies of the
town of Warren.
It is voted and resolved, that, twenty-five cords of wood
be the proportion of that article to be furnished by James
Angell, Esq., for the use of the troops now in the town of
Providence ; and upon his delivering that quantity, that he
be excused from any further demands for wood, for the pur-
pose, aforesaid, until the other owners of wood, in the
vicinity of said town, have furnished in the same propor-
tion ; and that what he has already delivered for the use of
said troops, be considered as part of his proportion, as
aforesaid.
Whereas, the council of war, on the 21st day of Decem-
ber current, passed a resolve for retaining the provisions,
suitable for the army ; and the rum and other spirituous
liquors (wine only excepted), within the town of Provi-
1770.] AND PROVIDENCE PLANTATIONS. 75
dence ; and whereas, it is found said resolve hath been at-
tended with many inconveniences, —
It is therefore voted and resolved, that the same be, and
hereby is, repealed.
Whereas, the act made and passed at the last session of
this Assembly, permitting and directing the alarm list or
men, to form themselves into companies, choose their own
officers, and that their officers should rank as those of
the independent companies, may admit of various con-
structions :
Wherefore, to prevent any uneasiness or difficulty arising
on that account, —
Resolved, that it was, and now is, the meaning and inten-
tion of this Assembly, that the officers of said companies, in
all courts martial and councils of war, shall hold the rank of
like officers in the independent companies ; that at all times
of general alarm, and on general field-days, they be under
the command and direction of the field officers of the regi-
ments within whose districts they respectively live ; and
that at all other times they are to meet with, and be under
the command of the officers of their own companies.
And it is further resolved, that until the alarm-men, in
each town have formed themselves into companies, as afore-
said, and elected their officers, and returned their names to
the Governor, in order to be commissioned, they be under
the command of their respective militia officers, in the same
manner they were, before the passing of the said act ; any
thing therein contained, to the contrary, notwithstanding.
And it is further resolved, that there shall be thirty-two
men, at the least (exclusive of officers), in order to entitle
them to the privileges of a separate company ; and that
this act be printed, and a copy thereof sent by the secretary
to each town clerk in the state, as soon as may be.
It is voted and resolved, that the sum of £40,000, be
hired by this state, for the use, thereof; that the general
treasurer be, and he is hereby, directed to give his notes,
therefor ; that no sum less than £10, be received, or note
76 RECORDS OF THE STATE OF RHODE ISLAND [DEC.
given therefor ; that said notes run payable to , or
order, within two years from the date, with interest at six
per cent, per annum, until paid ; and for the punctual pay-
ment of said notes, —
It is further voted and resolved, that this Assembly will,
within the term of two years, assess and levy upon the rata-
ble estates and polls of the inhabitants within the same, or
upon such parts, thereof, as a tax may practicably be laid, a
sufficient sum or sums, to pay the same, with the interest ;
and that, if it shall appear impracticable to levy any tax,
therefor, within the said time, the possessors of said notes shall
be entitled, after the time limited for the payment thereof, to
receive such interest as shall then be the usual interest
allowed by the United States, in general.
And it is further resolved, that the form of the notes be
as follows, viz. :
Form of the Notes to be given by the Treasurer.
" State of Ehode Island and
Providence Plantations.
By virtue of an act of said state, and as general treasurer
thereof, for value received, I promise to pay , or
order, pounds, lawful money, within two years from
the date hereof, with interest at six per cent, per annum,
for the same, until paid. Witness my hand, this day
of A. D. 177— ."
It is voted and resolved, that Daniel Rodman and Jabez
Bowen, Esqs., be, and they are hereby, appointed a commit-
tee, to inquire of the commissaries, now here from the
neighboring states, the allowance of provision and necessa-
ries to the said soldiers in Continental service, and that they
make report to this Assembly, as soon as may be.
It is voted and resolved, that the general treasurer be,
and he is hereby, appointed to superintend the printing of
the notes, ordered at this session to be printed.
1776.] AND PROVIDENCE PLANTATIONS. 77
This Assembly having requested a conference with the
other states of New England, at Providence, who have ac-
cordingly appointed committees, but with other powers and
authorities than are given by this state, and consisting of a
less number, —
It is therefore voted and resolved, that the Honorable
William Bradford, Esq., the Honorable Stephen Hopkins,
Esq. and Henry Ward, Esq., be, and they are hereby, appointed
a committee, to confer with the committees of the states of
Massachusetts Bay, Connecticut and New Hampshire, now
convened in this state, upon the expediency of raising and
appointing an army, for the more immediate defence of the
New England states, against the threatened invasion, as well
as for the more general defence in the common cause ; and
of such regulations as may be necessary to support the
credit of our currencies, to prevent the oppressing the sol-
diers, and inhabitants, by extravagant prices ; and in general,
of every measure, to expedite the raising and appointing an
army? or, necessary for common defence ; and to make re-
port to this Assembly, of whatever they may judge fit to be
done, for approbation ; and that suitable measures may be
pursued thereon, until the whole subject matter can be laid
before the Honorable Congress of the United States of
America, and measures taken, and directions given by them,
thereon ; and that this appointment be considered as having
been made and taking place on the 25th instant.
Whereas, Col. Ray Sands laid before this Assembly a
memorandum of sundry effects, taken the 18th instant, by
Capt. Taylor and Lieut. Kinyons companies, in his regi-
ment, out of a ferry boat, which was run aground near the
North Ferry, by the enemy, who were driven off by said
companies, and requested the orders of this Assembly for
making disposition of the same ; whereupon —
It is voted and resolved, that the said effects be disposed
of at public vendue ; and that one-half the money arising
from the sale of any of the articles formerly belonging to
said ferry boat, be paid to the owners of said boat ; and the
78 RECORDS OF THE STATE OP RHODE ISLAND [DEC.
remainder be distributed to the persons who captured the
same, in the proportion as is by law allowed to officers and
soldiers, for any vessels and cargoes that may be captured
by them, and duly condemned.
It is voted and resolved, that the standing committee of
this state inquire into and ascertain the losses sustained by
any of the soldiers of this state, on the islands of Jamestown
and Prudence.
It is voted and resolved, that eight pence, lawful money,
be allowed to Mr. John Carter, for each and every hundred
bills, by him last printed, in addition to what has already
been allowed him for the same.
Both houses being resolved into a grand committee, made
choice of the following officers for the brigade ordered at the
last session to be raised, viz. :
Officers Chosen for the Brigade.
Cyprian Sterry, Esq., major of brigade.
Officers in Col. Tallman's regiment — Christopher Man-
chester, captain, in the room of Cyprian Sterry, advanced.
William Sayles, first lieutenant in Capt. Reuben Ballou's
company, in the room of Squire Fiske, who declines serving.
Benjamin Steward Wallcutt, second lieutenant; and Sam-
uel Whipple, ensign, of said company.
David Bacon, first lieutenant; William Allen, second lieu-
tenant ; Abraham Andrews, ensign, in Capt. Abimelech
Riggs's company.
Walter Channing, second lieutenant; Daniel Fiske, en-
sign, in Capt, Caleb Carr's company.
Zadock Williams, second lieutenant, in the room of Ben-
jamin Gorton, who declines ; Daniel Sheldon, ensign, in
Capt. James Williams's company.
Jonathan Maxson, second lieutenant; Barber Peckham,
ensign, in Capt. James Parker's company.
Thomas Swan, second lieutenant ; Thomas Pearce, ensign,
in Capt, Thomas Allen's company.
1776.] AND PROVIDENCE PLANTATIONS. 79
Henry Alexander, first lieutenant ; Daniel Green, second
lieutenant ; Joseph Hopkins (son of Samuel), ensign, in
Capt, Reuben Wightman's company.
Walter Palmer, first lieutenant ; Robert Rogers, second
lieutenant ; Joshua Babcock, 2d, ensign, in Capt. Christopher
Manchester's company.
Benjamin Stelle, adjutant ; John Handy, quartermaster.
Officers in Col. Stanton's regiment — Matthew Randall,
second lieutenant ; Daniel Stafford, ensign, in Capt, Thomas
Thompson's company.
James Cotterell, ensign in Capt. Royzel Smith's company.
Job Greene, second lieutenant ; William Whipple, en-
sign, in Capt. Malichi Hammett's company.
John Cole, first lieutenant, in the room of Beriah Lewis,
who declines serving ; Francis Willett Gardner, second lieu-
tenant ; Joseph Manchester, ensign, in Capt. James Albro's
company.
Gabriel Allen, first lieutenant ; David Bentley, second
lieutenant ; Nathan Westcott, ensign, in Capt, Peleg Slo-
cum's company.
Philip Trasten, first lieutenant; Isaac Johnston, second
lieutenant ; George Briggs, ensign, in Capt. Josiah Gibbs's
company.
Joseph Springer, first lieutenant ; Charles Dyer, second
lieutenant ; Asa Kenna, ensign, in Capt, Benjamin West's
company.
John Pearce, first lieutenant; Edward Coleman, second
lieutenant; Joseph Rhodes, ensign, in Capt. Nathaniel Haw-
kins's company.
Jonathan Deval, Jr., adjutant ; Solomon Townsend, Jr.,
quartermaster.
Officers to Command the several Companies, in the Regiment of the
Train of Artillery.
Capt, Joshua Sayer's company — Nathaniel Gladding, cap-
tain-lieutenant ; Rhodes Packard, first lieutenant ; William
80 RECORDS OF THE STATE OP RHODE ISLAND [DEC.
Ham, second lieutenant; Edward Price, lieutenant-fire-
worker.
Capt. Jabez Westcott's company — Philip Morse, captain-
lieutenant ; Thomas Carlile, first lieutenant ; Ezekiel Bur-
kett, second lieutenant ; Cyrus Manchester, lieutenant-fire-
worker.
Capt. Samuel Sweet's company — John Warner, captain-
lieutenant ; William Comstock, first lieutenant ; Elijah
Babbitt, second lieutenant ; William Page, lieutenant-fire-
worker.
Capt. Gideon Westcott's company — Samuel Angell, cap-
tain-lieutenant ; Amos Jillson, first lieutenant ; Uriah West-
cott, second lieutenant ; Benjamin Bickford, lieutenant-fire-
worker.
Capt. Ebenezer Adams's company — John Garzia, captain-
lieutenant ; Joseph Crandall, first lieutenant ; John Proud,
second lieutenant ; William Fiske, lieutenant-fireworker.
William Donnison, adjutant; George Richards, quarter-
master.
It is voted and resolved, that, in future, no money be paid
out of the general treasury of this state, to any person,
unless he produces an order therefor, from this Assembly,
or from the council of war, appointed to act in the recess,
thereof.
It is voted and resolved, that Mr. Joseph Lawrence pro-
cure suitable quarters for the officers of the artillery compa-
ny, from the town of Boston, now in this town.
It is voted and resolved, that Mr. Joseph Brown and
Capt, Silas Talbot be, and they are hereby, appointed a
committee, forthwith to procure two suitable vessels for
fire-ships, and fix the same in the best manner, as soon as
may be ; and that when fixed, they be under the command
of the said Silas Talbot.
Resolved, that it be, and hereby is, recommended to His
Honor the Governor, that he immediately issue his orders,
as commander-in-chief of this state, to all field-officers within
1776."] AND PROVIDENCE PLANTATIONS. 81
the same, commanding and strictly enjoining them to cause
the military laws and regulations, now in force, to be punc-
tually executed and obeyed in their respective regiments ;
that in so doing, they shall be supported by the authority of
this state ; and that any field-officer neglecting or refusing
his duty in this respect, shall be answerable for such neglect
or refusal, in manner as by said laws and regulations is pre-
scribed and directed.
It is voted and resolved, that the officers of Col. Sayles's
regiment be dismissed ; that the soldiers, thereof, be per-
mitted to enlist into the regiments last ordered by this
state, and receive the bounty allowed them.
That those soldiers of Col. Sayles's regiment, who may
not enlist anew, be turned over to the last regiments or-
dered, in equal proportions, till the three months they en-
listed for, shall be expired ; and that this resolve be in force
in ten days after the rising of this Assembly.
It is voted and resolved, that the general treasurer be,
and he is hereby, empowered to supply Mr. Joseph Brown
with any sum, not exceeding £1,000, when called for, till
the further order of this Assembly, or the council of war,
for the purpose of preparing two fire-ships.
It is voted and resolved, that all male persons, subject by
law to bear arms, whether of the militia, alarm-list or inde-
pendent companies, within this state, be draughted in three
divisions, under the direction of the field-officers of each
regiment, or commanders of each company ; and that those
of the militia, or alarm-list of each division, be formed into
companies, to be commanded by officers draughted in like
manner, for each division ; and those of independent com-
panies, by officers draughted from their respective compa-
nies, for each division ; and that the draught of every
division, as aforesaid, be made by the respective field offi-
cers, and commanders of independent companies, on Monday,
the 6th day of Janury next.
And it is further resolved, that immediately upon said
draught being completed, the field-officers and commanders,
82 RECORDS OF THE STATE OF RHODE ISLAND [DEO.
as aforesaid, shall cause the first division to be formed into
companies, apportion to each their proper officers, and
cause them to march, as soon as possible, to such place or
places for duty, as the Governor, or commander for the time
being, shall direct ; and that thereupon, those of the several
regiments and companies, aforesaid, now in actual service,
and not draughted in the first division, as aforesaid, shall be
dismissed.
And it is further resolved, that the division on actual
duty, shall be relieved monthly, in the order they shall be
drawn out, by the other divisions ; and that the field-officers
and commanders, aforesaid, be, and they are hereby, di-
rected to cause the relief to be made and clone punctually,
at the time each division shall have completed its monthly
round of duty.
And it is further resolved, that the proper officers of each
regiment or company, shall cause the fine of £5, lawful
money, to be immediately exacted and collected, from all
persons in each division, who, when called out to duty, shall
be unprovided with arms and accoutrements by law re-
quired; except such persons as the town council of each
town shall adjudge and return as unable to furnish them-
selves therewith.
And it is further resolved, that in case any officer or
soldier, in each division, draughted, as aforesaid, shall refuse
or neglect to appear at the time and place ordered by his
respective superior officer or commander, either by him-
self, or a good, able bodied and suitable person in his stead,
to enter upon and perform such military duty as shall be
enjoined upon him, lie shall be subjected to, and pay, such
fines, forfeitures and penalties, as the military laws and reg-
ulations of this state direct in cases of general alarm.
And it is further resolved, that the pay of each private
soldier, in service, as aforesaid, shall be two shillings per
day ; and that the pay of the several officers be in the
same proportion, according to their several ranks and sta-
tions, as regulated by the laws for paying the militia, when
1 770.] AND PROVIDENCE PLANTATIONS. 80
in actual .service ; and that the said officers and soldiers
shall, when in actual service, he allowed and draw the same
rations as those of the standing regiments, in the service of
this state.
And it is further resolved, that the town councils of each
town furnish such persons as they shall certify to he unable
to furnish themselves, with arms, blankets and accoutre-
ments, as by law required ; and that the same be paid out
of the general treasury.
And it is further resolved, that the colonel, or commanding
officer of each regiment or company, as aforesaid, and the
town clerks in the several towns, within this state, be imme-
diately furnished by the secretary with a copy, hereof.
It is voted and resolved, that the form of the treasurer's
notes to be given for the money ordered at this session to
be hired, be varied ; and that instead of pounds,
they be given for dollars ; and that no note be
given for a less sum than $30.
It is voted and resolved, that the pay of the privates, in
the regiment of artillery now raising, for the defence of this
state, be at $11, per month.
It is voted and resolved, that Mr. John Smith, as one of
the committee of safety, be, and he is hereby, empowered to
draw out of the general treasury, the sum of £1,000, lawful
money.
An Act establishing and regulating a general hospital, for
the use of the army, within this state.
Be it enacted by this General Assembly, and by the
authority thereof it is enacted, that a director and pro-
veditor be appointed, to establish a general hospital or hos-
pitals, as he shall judge necessary, for the service ; and sup-
ply and provide medicines and instruments, therefor ; and
appoint the stewards and nurses^ and their number pro re
nata ; and make every other provision appertaining to that
department.
84 RECORDS OF THE STATE OF RHODE ISLAND [DEC-
It is further enacted by the authority aforesaid, that a
hospital surgeon be appointed ; whose business will be, to
superintend and take care of all the sick and wounded in
the hospital or hospitals, to receive the weekly returns from
the regimental surgeons, of all unfit for duty in their respec-
tive regiments, in barracks or tents; and to make regular,
weekly returns, to the commander-in-chief, of the same ; to-
gether with those unfit for dut}^, in the hospital or hospitals ;
that the exact state of the army, in that respect, may be
known at all times.
It is further enacted by the authority aforesaid, that regi-
mental surgeons be appointed to each regiment.
That the director and hospital surgeon, or either of them,
have power to examine, approbate and appoint the several hos-
pital and regimental mates, and so many, from time to time
as they shall judge necessary for the service ; and that the
director have one mate-assistant, of his own appointment.
Both houses being resolved into a grand committee,
chose the following officers;, to wit :
Officers of the Militia, &c, Chosen.
Daniel Cahoone, Esq., one of the council of war.
Doctor Jonathan Arnold, director and proveditor of
the general hospital or hospitals, to be established in this
state.
Isaac Center, hospital surgeon.
Stephen Wigneron, surgeon of Col. Tallmans regiment.
Joseph Joslyn, surgeon of Col. Stanton's regiment,
Jesse Maxson, Esq., lieutenant-colonel of the first regiment
of militia, in Kings county, in the room of Joseph Stan-
ton, Esq.
Thomas Sheffield, Esq., major of said regiment, in the
room of Jesse Maxson, advanced.
Thomas Potter, Esq., lieutenant-colonel of the second
regiment of militia, in Kings county.
1776.] AND PBOVlDENCE PLANTATIONS. 85
Asa Maxson, ensign of the third company of militia, in
Westerly.
Vial Allin. captain of the company of militia, in Barring-
ton, in the room of Thomas Allin.
Daniel Kinnicutt, lieutenant of said company, in the room
of VialJAllen, advanced.
James Martin, ensign of said company, in the room of
Daniel Kinnicutt, advanced.
Timothy Lurcher, lieutenant ; Lewis Larcher, master ;
William Davenport, quartermaster, of the row-galley Wash-
An Act to prevent monopolies and oppression, by excessive
and unreasonable prices for many of the necessaries and
conveniences of life ; and for preventing engrossers, and
for the better supply of our troops in the army with such
necessaries as may be wanted.
Whereas, the committee appointed by the several states
of New England, and now convened at Providence, in the
state of Rhode Island and Providence Plantations, for the
purpose of regulating an army, for supporting the currency,
affixing the prices of labor, goods, wares, merchandize, &c,
have, amongst other things, reported as follows, viz. :
Report of the Committee to the General Assembly of Rhode
Island, Regulating the Prices of Labor, Goods, Wares, Mer-
chandize, dr.
" In Committee) December 01, 177(5.
This committee, taking into consideration the unbounded avarice of many persons*
by daily adding to the now most intolerably exorbitant price of every necessary and
convenient article of life ; and also the most extravagant price of labor in general, which
at this time of distress, unless a speedy and effectual stop be put thereto, will be at-
tended witli the most pernicious and fatal consequences; as it not only disheartens and
disaffects the soldiers, who have nobly entered into service for the best of causes, by
obliging them to give such unreasonable prices for those things that are absolutely
needful for their very existence, that their pay is not sufficient to subsist them ; but is
also very detrimental to the country in general.
Wherefore, it is recommended by this committee, that the rules and prices hereafter
86 RECORDS OF THE STATE OF RHODE ISLAND [Dec.
enumerated, be affixed and settled within the respective states in New England, to
Wit :
Farming labor in the summer season, shall not exceed 3s. id., per day ; and so in the
Usual proportion at other seasons of the year ; and the labor of mechanics and trades"
men, and other labor, to be computed according to the usages and customs that have
heretofore been adopted and practised in different parts of the several states, compared
with farming labor.
Wheat — Good, merchantable wheat shall not exceed the price of 7s. 6c/., per bushel,
in any part of the states of Massachusetts Bay, New Hampshire, and Rhode Island and
Providence Plantations ; and 6s. per bushel in any part of the state of Connecticut.
Rye — Good, merchantable rye shall not exceed the price of 4s..6c/., per bushel, in any
part of the states of Massachusetts Bay, New Hampshire and Rhode Island and Provi'
dence Plantations ; and 8s. 6c/. per bushel, in the state of Connecticut.
Indian Corn — Good, merchantable Indian corn shall not, in any part of the state of
Massachusetts Bay, exceed 8s. id., per bushel ; in any part of the state of Connecticut,
3s. per bushel ; and in the states of New Hampshire, and Rhode Island and Providence
Plantations, 3s. 6c/. per bushel.
Wool — Good, merchantable, sheep's wool, shall not, in any part of the states of Mas-
sachusetts Bay, Connecticut, and Rhode Island and Providence Plantations, exceed 2s.
per lb. ; nor in any part of the state of New Hampshire, 2s. 2d. per lb.
Pork — In any part of the state of Massachusetts Bay, shall not exceed the following
prices :
Swine, weighing from five to seven score, id. per lb. ; from seven to ten score, i+d. ;
all above ten score, 4£c/. In any part of the state of Connecticut, it shall not exceed the
following prices : swine, weighing from five to seven score, 3$d. ; from seven to ten
score, 3hd. ; all above ten score, 3ft/. In any part of the state of New Hampshire, it
shall not exceed the following prices : swine, weighing from five to seven score, i-\d. ;
from seven to ten score, i\d. ; all above ten score, 5c/. In any part of the state of
Rhode Island and Providence Plantations, it shall not exceed the following prices '■>
swine, weighing from five to seven score, Zhd. per lb. ; from seven to ten score, 4c?. ;
all above ten score, ihd.
Beef — Grass-fed beef of the best quality, in any part of the states of Massachsetts
Bay, New Hampshire, and Rhode Island and Providence Plantations, shall not exceed
3c/. per lb. ; and in the state of Connecticut, 24s. per hundred weight ; and so in that
proportion, in the said several states, for stall-fed beef, and likewise beef of an inferior
quality.
Hides — Raw hides shall not exceed 8c/. per lb., in any of said states.
Salt — Good, merchantable salt shall not exceed 10s. per bushel, in any part of the
aforesaid states.
Rum — Good, merchantable West India rum shall not exceed 6s. 8c/. per gallon, by
the hogshead ; 7s. 8c/. by the single gallon; and 2s. by the quart ; and so in proportion
for smaller quantities, according to the old and accustomed usages for retailing smaller
quantities, in any part of the said states ; save allowing Id. per gallon for every ten
miles the same may be conveyed by land-carriage, from the first port of delivery, for
the cost, charge and risk, in carrying the same. New England rum of the best quality,
shall not exceed 3s. lOd. per gallon, by the hogshead; 4s. per gallon, by the barrel;
4s. 6c/., by the single gallon, at the ports and places where the same shall be first dis"
tilled (exclusive of the cask) ; and so in like proportion for smaller quantities ; Id. per
gallon is allowed for every ten miles the same may be conveyed by land-carriage, from
the first place of distilling, for the cost and risk in carrying the same.
Sugar— Best Muscovado sugar shall not exceed 54s. per hundred weight, by the hogs^
head ; 60s. by the single hundred weight ; and 8c/. per lb. at the first port of delivery in
1776.]
AND PROVIDENCE PLANTATIONS. 87
any of said states ; and to allow \)d. per hundred weight, for every ten miles land,
carriage.
Molasses — Of the best quality, shall not exceed 3s. id., by the hogshead ; 3s. 8d., by the
barrel, and Is., by the single gallon, at the first port of delivery, in any of the said states ;
allowing Id. per gallon for every ten miles land-carriage that the same may be con-
veyed, as aforesaid.
Cheese — American manufactured cheese shall not exceed G(/. per lb., in any part of
the said states.
Butter — Butter of the best quality, shall not exceed lOd. per lb., in any part of said states.
Peas — Peas shall not exceed 8s. per bushel, in any part of the said states.
Beans — Beans of the best quality, shall not exceed 6s, per bushel, in any part of the
said states.
Potatoes — Commonly called Spanish potatoes, of the best sort, shall not, in the fall
of the year, exceed Is. Ad. per bushel ; and not at any other season of the year exceed
2s. per bushel, in any part of the said states.
Stockings — Men's good yarn stockings shall not exceed Gs. per pair, in any of said
states ; and so in proportion for those of an inferior quality.
Shoes — Men's neats leather shoes, of the best common sort, shall not exceed 8s. per
pair; and other shoes in proportion, according to their quality.
Salted Pork — Salted pork by the barrel, two hundred and twenty Aveight in each
barrel, shall not, in the states of Massachusetts Bay, and Rhode Island and Providence
Plantations, exceed £i 12s. ; in the state of Connecticut, £i is. ; and in the state of
New Hampshire, £5, lawful money, per barrel.
Cotton — Cotton shall not exceed 3s. per lb., by the hag ; and 3s. 8d., by the single
pound, in any of said states.
Oats — ^Good oats shall not exceed 2s. per bushel, in any of said states.
Flax — Good, well dressed merchantable flax shall not exceed Is. per lb., in the states
of Massachusetts Bay, New Hampshire, and Rhode Island and Providence Planta-
tions ; and lOd. per lb., in the state of Connecticut.
Coffee — Good coffee shall not exceed Is. id., by the single pound, in any part of said
states.
Tallow — Good, tried tallow shall not exceed l^d. per lb., in any of the said states.
Tow-cloth — Good, yard-wide tow-cloth, in the several states, shall not exceed 2s. 3d.,
per yard ; and other tow-cloth in like proportion, according to the quality. Coarse
linen to be valued after the rate and in proportion to tow-cloth, making the reasonable
allowances for the same.
Flannels — Good, yard-wide, striped flannel, shall not exceed 3s. Gd. per yard, in any
of the said states ; and other flannels in proportion, according to their widths and
qualities ; and other woolen cloths in like proportion.
This committee, considering, that goods in general imported, have of late, owing to
the unbounded avarice of some persons, been sold by wholesale, at the exorbitant ad-
vance of five and six hundred per cent, from the prime cost : and retailed out at the
unreasonable profit of forty and fifty per cent., or more, in addition thereto, which has
been the occasion of great oppression, especially to the poor consumer ; to correct and
rectify such exorbitances, do recommend that, notwithstanding the risk of a voyage to
and from Europe, the high rate of insurance, the difficulty of procuring articles suita-
ble for that market, the loss upon those exported, the increased expenses and length of
the voyage, and the real necessity of importing many commodities from fchence ; the
price of European goods, which have been or shall be imported ; as also all such
goods which have been or shall be brought into any of the said states, in any prize
vessel, shall not exceed the following rates, which this committee is of opinion will al-
low but a reasonable profit to the adventurer :
8 RECORDS OF THE STATE OF RHODE ISLAND [DEC,
Woolen goods, coarse linens, duck, ticklenburgs and oznabrigs, shall not be sold by
wholesale at a higher rate than in the proportion of £215, sterling, for what cost £100,
sterling, in Europe.
And not any other goods, wares or merchandize, imported from thence, or brought
into any port in said states, in any prize vessel, shall be sold at wholesale, at a higher
rate than in the proportion of .£250, sterling, tor what cost £100, sterling; excepting
warlike and military stores, the prices of which, the committee is of opinion, ought not
to be limited ; but the retailers of such goods shall not sell them at a higher advance
than twenty per cent., upon the wholesale price.
This committee further recommend, that the several legislative bodies within the
said respective states, affix and ascertain the prices of wood, hay, pine boards, plank,
joist, hoops, shingles, charcoal, tanned leather, cotton and linen cloths, mutton, veal
and flour; and also the rate of carting, which can be better done in the several states,
than by this committee.
It is further recommended to the respective legislatures, aforesaid, to regulate or pro-
hibit vendues, and other public sales, in such manner as not to interfere with, but so as
to enforce the several regulations recommended, as aforesaid.
And it is further recommended to the above mentioned states, to empower suitable
persons in their respective states, to open any warehouses, stores, or other places,
where goods are deposited, which are necessary for the use of the army or navy,
and are withheld by monopolizers, engrossers, or others ; and to take and apply such
goods to the use, aforesaid, paying the owners, thereof, at the rates at which such
goods are hereby valued ; and in case the goods so taken, are not herein rated, at a rea-
sonable appraisement, to be made by indifferent persons,"
Wherefore, and upon due consideration had thereon, —
Be it enacted by the General Assembly, and by the au-
thority thereof it is enacted, that the said report be, and
the same is hereby, approved and enacted, so far as the
price of labor, produce, goods, wares, merchandize and man-
ufactures, are therein affixed.
And be it further enacted, that the following articles, not
therein enumerated, shall not exceed the prices hereto af-
fixed, to wit:
Further Enumeration of Prices, &c, Staled.
Turkles and dunghill fowls, 4£d., per lb. ; geese, 3d. per 11). ; best mutton, Ad. per
lb. ; best veal, Ad, per lb. ; and other in proportion to its quality.
Dinners at taverns, for travellers (not soldiers), of boiled and roast meat, with other
articles equivalent, exclusive of wine, Is. M. ; suppers and breakfasts, Is. each; lodg-
ing, id.
Good, rough-skinned potatoes, 2s. 6c/. per bushel.
Walnut wood, 3s. per foot ; oak wood, 2s. 6<7. per foot,
Charcoal, Ad. per bushel, per load.
Hard Soap, 4£d. per lb.
English hay, in sea-port markets, for the use of the inhabitants or army, from L'4
1776.]
AND PROVIDENCE PLANTATIONS. 89
10a-., to £6, per ton, according to its quality ; at other plaees, for the uses, aforesaid,
.£3, per ton, with allowance for carting.
Teaming work — The teamster finding himself and cattle, for one hand, with cart or
wagon, one joke of oxen, and a good draught-horse, or two yoke of oxen, 13s. per
day; teaming to, and from, sea-port markets, and for the army, per ton per mile, for
not more than one mile -is., for every mile, after the first mile out, Is. G</.
Horse-keeping, at sea-port towns per night, or twenty -four hours, 2s. Gd.
Horse-shoeing, all round, with steel corks, heel and toe, 6s. ; ox-shoeing, and other
blacksmith's work, in the same proportion.
Horse-hire, 4d. per mile.
Green calf-skins, 6rf. per lb. ; and tanned and curried skins, in the same propor-
tion ; tanned hides, Is. 4d. per lb.
Ships' iron work — Weight-work, at 3:1. per lb. ; and all light work, in the same pro-
portion, excepting cast iron.
Cotton and linen cloth, middling quality, yard -wide, 3s. 8d. per yard ; and other
qualities and widths, in proportion.
Boards — Clear eastern pine, £6, per thousand ; merchantable do., £1 per do. ; com-
mon country do., £3 12s. per do. ; yellow pine do., £3 12s. per thousand.
Oak— Full inch oak boards, and joist end timber, £3, per thousand.
Hoops — Good hogshead, £4, per thousand.
Staves — White oak hogshead, £6, per thousand ; do. red oak, £3, per do. ; white
oak barrel, £4, per do. ; do. red oak, £2, per do. ; heading proportioned in price to
that of staves.
Tobacco — Good, merchantable, well cured tobacco, at 25s, per hundred weight ; and
4d. per single pound.
Men's leather breeches, of the best sort of deer's leather, 42s. per pair ; and boys' and
other leather breeches at a like proportion, according to their quality.
Cocoa — Best cocoa, at £6 10s,, per hundred weight; and chocolate, 2s. per single
pound.
House carpenters, finding themselves, 5s. per day.
Ship " " " Gs. "
Caulkers, " " 7s. "
Masons, " " Gs. 6d. per day.
Tailors, making a plain suit of best broadcloth clothes, 24s. ; and their daily wages,
the employer finding them, at 3s. per day.
Trucking, Is. 6d. per hogshead ; and other things in proportion.
Best beaver hats, at 42s. ; best felt hats, at 8s.
Coopers, finding themselves, 5s. per day ; setting and finding hogshead hoops, 3c/.
each ; setting and finding barrel hoops, 2d., each.
Barbers, for shaving, 3d.
Stone lime, 18s. per hogshead, of one hundred gallons, delivered at Providence.
Milk, from the 1st of May to the 1st of November, at 2c/. per quart ; and the other
six months, at 3d. per quart.
Which prices are to be considered as the highest rates at which any of the before-
mentioned articles are to be sold, or bought or done, in the several sea-ports or public
market-places ; and in all other places of this state, the said articles are to be estimated
and rated according to the accustomed usages, in proportion to the prices in sea-ports
and market-places, as aforesaid, unless where particular mention is made of a price at
other places."
And be it farther enacted by the authority aforesaid, that
if any person shall, at any vendue or public sale, for any
VOL. VJII. 12
90 RECORDS OF THE STATE OF RHODE ISLAND [DEC.
saleable article, give or bid at a greater or higher price than
by this act is limited, he shall forfeit and pay the value of
said article ; one-half to, and for the use of, this state ; and
the other half to the informer, who shall sue for the same ;
and shall be deemed an enemy to his country, and be ren-
dered incapable of sustaining any public office.
And be it farther enacted, that if any person shall refuse
to sell any of said goods, merchandize, &c, at the prices by
this act limited, to be paid in the current paper bills emitted
by the Continental Congress, or this state, and shall after-
wards part with such goods, merchandize, &c, in exchange
for other goods, merchandize, &c, he shall forfeit and pay
the value of such goods, merchandize, &c. ; one-half to, and
for the use of, this state, and the other half to the informer
or prosecutor.
And be it further enacted by the authority aforesaid, that
His Honor the Governor, any and either of the assistants,
judges of the superior and inferior courts, or any two jus-
tices of the peace, within this state, be, and they are hereby,
empowered and directed, that upon complaint, under oath,
that any article or articles of necessary support, for the
army or navy, may be wanted, and are withheld by mo-
nopolizers, engrossers or others, to issue his warrant to any
sheriff or deputy sheriff, constable or town sergeant, to im-
press and seize the same out of their hands ; and for that
purpose, to break open and enter any warehouses or stores,
or other places, where such goods are deposited, and to
have the same appraised by two indifferent, judicious men,
under oath, appointed for that purpose, not exceeding the
prices affixed by this act, which price so affixed, shall be
paid to the owner or owners, thereof; and that suitable per-
sons, in addition to the commissaries already appointed, be
appointed by the council of war of this state, to furnish and
supply the army raised by this state with necessaries, upon
the most reasonable terms, agreeably to the encouragement
given by this Assembly ; and the commissaries of this state,
and all other persons, are hereby requested, and strictly en-
1770.] AND PROVIDENCE PLANTATIONS. 91
joined and directed, to make information against all such
persons as they shall find buying up or engrossing the ar-
ticles, aforesaid, contrary to the intent and meaning of said
act.
And be it further enacted by the authority aforesaid, that
whoever shall contract, or receive for labor, or vend, sell, or
receive for any of the above enumerated articles, more than
at the above rate or price thereunto affixed, or for others
not enumerated, in an unreasonable disproportion thereto,
shall be accounted oppressive, an enemy to his country,
guilty of a breach of this act, and shall be liable to be
prosecuted before any of the courts of record within this
state, by bill, plaint, or information ; and upon conviction,
shall be fined for every article sold, of the price of twenty
shillings or under, the sum of twenty shillings ; and for
every article of a price above twenty shillings, a sum equal
to the price of such articles ; together with all costs of
prosecution ; and shall stand committed till sentence be
performed ; one-half of said fine to be paid into the general
treasury; and the other half, to the informer or prosecutor.
And be it further enacted, that this act shall take effect,
and be in full force, upon Tuesday, the 8th day of January,
A. D. 1777; and that the same be forthwith published, and
sent to the respective town clerks of this state, to be by
them read in the first town meeting of their respective
towns.
It is voted and resolved, that Col. Joseph Stanton, Jr.,
have liberty to draw £1,000, lawful money, out of the gen-
eral treasury, for paying the bounty allowed to the soldiers,
who shall enlist into the regiments ordered by this Assem-
bly to be raised.
It is voted and resolved, that John Northup, Esq., as one
of the committee of safety, be, and hereby is, empowered to
draw out of the general treasury, the sum of £600, lawful
money.
It is voted and resolved, that Mr. Sylvester Gardner be,
92 RECORDS OF THE STATE OF RHODE ISLAND [DeC
and lie is hereby, appointed to .supply the wood necessary
for the use of the. troops in Kings county.
It is voted and resolved, that Peter Phillips, Esq., be, and
he is hereby, empowered to draw £300, lawful money, out
of the general treasury.
It is voted and resolved, that Capt. Tunis Montayne, of
the island of Bermuda, be permitted to purchase a vessel
within this state, to proceed to said island of Bermuda j
and that he have liberty to take with him his two ap-
prentices and negro boy ; and as much provision as will be
necessary for said voyage, under the direction of Mr. Jacob
Greene.
It is voted and resolved, that Mr. John Smith be, and he
is hereby, appointed to purchase a sufficient quantity of
hay for the use of the horses and cattle, now in the town of
Providence, in the service of this state, for one week.
Whereas, the committee appointed to inquire into the al-
lowance of provisions and necessaries to the soldiers, in the
Continental service, presented unto this Assembly, the fol-
lowing report, to wit :
Amount of Rations, &c, Allowed to the Soldiers, by the Continental
Congress.
Rations established by the Continental Congress, with vari-
ations made by Peter Phillips and Jabez Bowen, Esqs. ; and
approved by the honorable the commissioners of the four
New England states, viz. :
One pound of wheat bread, or one pound of flour, or one
pound-and-an-half of brown bread, per man, per day.
One pound-and-a-quarter of beef, or one pound of pork, per
man, per day 5 or, one pound of beef and one pound of pork,
for two days.
Three pints of beans or peas, per man, per week.
Eight pounds of hard soap, per hundred men, per week-
including guards, &c.
1776.] AND PROVIDENCE PLANTATIONS. O-'i
Six pounds candles, per hundred men, per week, including
guards, &c.
One quart of beer per day, per man ; or nine gallons of
molasses, or three-quarters of a hundred of sugar, per hun-
dred men, per week ; or in lieu thereof, one gill of rum, per
man, per day.
Six ounces of butter per man, per week ; or the real price,
in cash.
One gill of rice ; or one pint of Indian meal per man, per
week.
Half a gill of rum, per man, per day, when on fatigue.
Two quarts of salt for every hundred pounds of fresh beef
served out.
Vinegar occasionally.
Submitted by your humble servants,
PETER PHILLIPS,) Com-
JABEZ BOWEN, j mittee.
And the said report being duly considered, —
It is voted and resolved, that the same be, and hereby is,
accepted ; that the above and foregoing regulation be, and
the same is hereby, approved of and established, as the ra-
tions to be allowed to the troops, raised within this state ;
any other act to the contrary, notwithstanding.
It is voted and resolved, that Capt, Simeon Clarke be re-
quested to give notice to Mr. Nathan Kinyon, to attend the
next session of this Assembly, to answer the complaint of
Lieut, John Clarke ; and that he also cite the said John
Clarke to attend, at the same time, with such evidences as
he shall see fit to bring with him, to support his complaint,
It is voted and resolved, that Mr. James Congdon, 3d, be,
and he is hereby, appointed one of the committee of safety,
in the room of Col. Joseph Stanton, Jr. ; and that the said
Joseph Stanton, Jr., be, and he is hereby, empowered to ap-
ply the money, in his hands, belonging to this state, to the
purpose for which he received it.
It is voted and resolved, that Mr. John Smith, one of the
94 RECORDS OF THE STATE OF RHODE ISLAND [DEC.
committee of safety, furnish Col. Jabez Bowen with £60,
lawful money, taking his receipt therefor, to be paid out to
the soldiers of the militia, in such proportions as the com-
manding officer, and captains at Warwick Neck, shall think
proper, towards their pay ; and that abstracts be made out
by the captains, as soon as may be, and certified by the
colonels, or respective commanding officers of the regiments
of militia on duty, within this state, to some certain time for
payment ; and that application be made therefor, to the
committees of safety.
It is voted and resolved, that brigadier general Malmedy
be, and he is hereby, empowered to execute all and every
plan he shall think necessary, for the fortifying this state,
consistent with the number of men that this and the other
states have, or shall furnish ; and to remove the cannon
from such places as he may think are in danger of the
enemy, and to place them at such places as he shall think
proper.
That the Generals Varnum and West be requested to for-
ward such works, and to afford him all the assistance in their
power, by men, and otherwise ; that the cannon he may
want, be fitted and prepared as soon as possible, with such
carriages as he shall require ; and that the council of war
give every necessary assistance for pursuing such plan.
Both houses being resolved in grand committee, chose
Thomas Holden quartermaster of the brigade now raising
for the defence of this state.
It is voted and resolved, that a surgeon be appointed for
the regiment of the train of artillery, now raising for the
defence of this state.
Whereas, it is suggested to this Assembly, that, at the
late alarm, when the militia and alarm-men, of this state,
were ordered into service, many of them neglected or re-
fused to appear ; and of those who did appear, many ab-
sented themselves without leave, and deserted the service ;
which misconduct is not only of evil example and destruc-
tive of due order and discipline, but of the greatest ill con-
1770.] AND PROVIDENCE PLANTATIONS. 95
sequence to the general safety ; and therefore merits a par-
ticular attention, —
It is therefore voted and resolved, that His Honor the
Governor be, and he is hereby, advised to issue his orders,
as commander-in-chief of this state, to the colonels and field
officers of each respective regiment., ordering and directing
them to call courts martial within their respective counties,
who shall have before them, hear, try, and pass upon, all
persons within their regiments, offending, as aforesaid ; and
inflict such pains and penalties upon the offenders, as the
said courts shall judge adequate to their offences, agreeably
to the martial and military laws in force, in this state, at the
time they committed the same.
It is voted and resolved, that Mr. John Brown be, and
he is hereby, empowered to purchase, at public or private
sale, such and so many of the warlike stores, taken out of
the prize ship Friendship, as he may think necessary for the
use of this state, if the same shall be sold at reasonable prices.
It is voted and resolved, that James Arnold, Jr., Esq., be,
and he is hereby, appointed to procure two field-carriages,
to be made for the two guns now at Warwick Neck ; and
that he have liberty to employ any persons of the militia,
that may be called into actual service, to execute that
business.
It is voted and resolved, that from and after the 29th day
of December, A. D. 1776, the sum of nine shillings, lawful
money, be allowed to each of the members of the upper and
lower house of Assembly, for each day's attendance on said
Assembly.
That upon the members of the upper house producing a
certificate from the secretary ; and the members of the
lower house from the clerk, of said house, of the number of
days of their attendance, to the general treasurer, that he
pay for each day's attendance, at the rate, aforesaid, out of
the general treasury.
It is voted and resolved, that Mr. John Glazier be, and he
96 RECORDS OF THE STATE OF RHODE ISLAND [DEC.
is hereby, appointed forthwith to make a field-carriage, for
the nine-pound cannon, now at East Greenwich.
It is voted and resolved, that Mr. Nathan Miller be, and
he is hereby, empowered to draw £300, lawful money, out
of the general treasury ; one-half, thereof, to be paid in
notes, and the other half, in bills heretofore emitted.
It is voted and resolved, that Joseph Clarke, Esq., pur-
chase a suitable book, for entering the charges of this state,
against the United States.
It is voted and resolved, that the standing committee ad-
just the accounts of this state, with the United States, up to
the 1st clay of January, A. D. 1777, exclusive of the moneys
that may be advanced in raising and equipping the three
regiments, ordered to be raised by this Assembly, for fif-
teen months ; and that they make report to the council of
war as soon as may be.
It is voted and resolved, that Mr. Stephen Mumford, as
one of the committee of safety, be, and he is hereb}^, em-
powered to draw £700, lawful money, out of the general
treasury ; ,£300, thereof, to be paid in notes, and the re-
mainder, in bills heretofore emitted.
It is voted and resolved, that the committee of safety, in
Kings county, settle the billeting of the* troops within that
county, and the keeping of the horses in the troop stationed
within said county ; and that they allow one shilling and
ninepence per night, for keeping each horse.
It is voted and resolved, that it be recommended to Mr.
Daniel Tillinghast, Continental agent within this state, that
he furnish the soldiers, enlisted by Capt, Jonathan Wallen,
into the Continental service, with the clothing they may be
in immediate want of; and that Capt. Wallen place such of
them, as he shall think fit, on board the Continental frigates,
until he is ready to proceed with them, to join the army.
It is voted and resolved, that Mr. John Smith pay to John
Bates $00, for a mare, purchased of him for the use of this
state.
1776.] AND PROVIDENCE PLANTATIONS. 97
It is voted and resolved, that Joseph Belcher, John
Mathewson, Daniel Rodman and Gideon Mnmford, Esqs.,
and Mr. Nathan Miller, be, and they are hereby, appointed
a committee, to inquire what towns were deficient in rais-
ing their quotas of the regiment ordered to be raised from
the militia, for three months ; and the causes for such de-
ficiency ; and that they make report to this Assembly, at
the next session.
It is voted and resolved, that every member of either
house of Assembly, who shall leave the house, after business
is begun, without leave of the house, therefor, shall forfeit
the whole of his wages that shall accrue to him, at the same
session.
It is voted and resolved, that Caleb Harris, Esq., inspect
the powder in the possession of Mr. John Waterman, be-
longing to this state ; and if the same be approved by him,
that he remove the same to such places as he shall think
most safe.
It is voted and resolved, that Daniel Rodman, Esq., be ap-
pointed to inquire of William Potter, Esq., if he has received
of Mr. Silas Niles the back rents of the farm at Point Ju-
dith, leased to him by this state, and the rents due for the
other estates in Kings county, leased by this state ; and if
he has not received the same, and his health will not admit
of his transacting said business, that the said Daniel Rod-
man be, and he is hereby, empowered to receive the rents
due to this state, from the said Silas Niles, and from the
other persons to whom said estates have been leased ; and
that he pay the same into the general treasury.
It is voted and resolved, that Mr. James Congdon, 3d, as
one of the committee of safety, be, and he is hereby, em-
powered to draw £1,000, lawful money, out of the general
treasury, in notes ; he first giving sufficient security.
Whereas, the committees from the several New England
states, now convened in the town of Providence, have re-
commended to the said states, that no further emissions of
paper money bills be made, but that the several treasuries
VOL. VJIJ, 13
98 EECOEDS OF THE STATE OF RHODE ISLAND [DEC.
be supplied by taxes, and by borrowing the necessary sums,
to be re-paid in three years, or sooner, from their date, with
an interest not exceeding five per cent, per annum ; unless
upon a critical contingency, there may be an absolute ne-
cessity of an immediate supply, and the money cannot be
procured upon loan ; in which case, it is recommended that
bills be emitted, redeemable in three years, or sooner, with
an interest of four per cent, per annum ; and that the state
emitting the same, notify the other states of such emission ;
and also that the several states forthwith levy such taxes
upon the inhabitants as their abilities will bear ; and that
the several states call in the bills of credit, at the expiration
of the periods for which they were severally emitted, in the
best manner they can devise, to give a reasonable and just
satisfaction to the possessors of the bills ; wherefore —
It is voted and resolved, that the said recommendation
be, and the same is hereby, approved ; and that this state
will, to the utmost of their power, make the same the rule
of their conduct in future, in supplying the treasury of this
state ; and for supporting, in the most effectual manner, the
credit of the paper bills.
It is voted and resolved, that the judge of the court,
erected for the trial of maritime causes, be, and he is here-
by, empowered to appoint a suitable person, who shall be,
and he is hereby, fully empowered to attend upon said
court, in the capacity of special sheriff for the county of
Providence, at the court this day appointed to be held in
said town of Providence ; and until the causes then and
there appointed to be tried, shall be heard and determined,
with full power to empannel a jury for the trial of said
causes ; and in general, to do, act and transact, every other
matter and thing, by order of said court, which the sheriff
might do, if present.
It is voted and resolved, that His Honor the Governor
be, and he is hereby, requested to transmit to the Conti-
nental Congress, the account of this state against the Con-
tinent; and request that, for the balance, an order be
1776.] AND PROVIDENCE PLANTATIONS. 99
drawn by the Congress upon Joseph Clarke, Esq., keeper
of their loan office within this state ; and that if the money
be not in said office, the Congress give order to their keeper
of said office, to issue notes in favor of this state, for the
amount of the balance, upon interest, at four per cent, per
annum.
Both houses, in a grand committee, chose the following
officers, to wit :
Officers Chosen for the Militia.
Benjamin Church, captain in Col. Tallman's regiment, in
the room of Reuben Wightman, who declined serving.
Amos Whipple, captain ; Nathaniel Gould, lieutenant ;
Abraham Cook, Jr., ensign, of the company of militia, in the
town of Cumberland.
It is voted and resolved, that the colonels, or commanding
officers of the several regiments, order the captains of each
company therein, immediately to see that the men, belong-
ing to their companies, are served with seventeen rounds of
cartridges to each man, well fitted to his piece ; and that
each man give his receipt to the captain, therefor ; and that
he also provide seventeen rounds more for each man, which
he shall see well suited to his piece, as aforesaid, and tied
in bunches, marked with the name of each man ; which last
mentioned cartridges, the captain of each company shall
keep in his own possession, and cause them to be carried
with their companies, wherever they shall be ordered to
march.
That the colonels or other commanding officers, apply
to the town treasurers of the towns within their regiments,
for powder and lead, to make said cartridges, giving re-
ceipts for what they shall receive ; and in case of deficiency,
that they apply to this Assembly ; or, in their recess, to the
council of war, of this state, for further supplies.
It is voted and resolved, that John Northup, Esq., pur-
chase of Col. Robert Elliott, the musket-ball, he has to dis-
lOU EEcoEds of the statue of EHOdE island [Dec',
pose of, for Kings county; and that he also be supplied with
six hundred weight of lead, heretofore purchased by this
state, for the same county.
Whereas, Mr. Joseph Rhodes presented unto this Assem-
bly, an account charged by him against the state, for victuals,
liquors, fire and candles, provided for twelve prisoners and
their guards, on their way from Providence to Pawtuxet ;•
and the said account being duly examined, —
It is voted and resolved, that the same be, and hereby is,
allowed ; and that the amount thereof, being £2 Ids., law-
ful money, be paid unto the said Joseph Rhodes, out of the
general treasury.
It is voted and resolved, that Mr. Daniel Tillinghast, the
Continental agent within this state, be, and he is hereby.?
requested to deliver the arms and blankets, now in his pos-
session, belonging to the United States, to such persons as
shall have orders for the same, from the commanding offi-
cers of the regiments ordered to be raised by this Assembly
for fifteen months.
It is voted and resolved, that the town of Little Comp-
ton be iDermitted to take two field-pieces, mounted on car-
riages ; one, of the smallest, and one six or four-pounder,
from Howland's Ferry ; together with the accoutrements
thereunto belonging, with so many cartridges as the com-
manding officer there, may think proper ; and that said
town be accountable therefor, to this state.
And it is also further voted and resolved, that the town
clerk of said town be, and he is hereby, empowered to draw
half a hundredweight of powder, and one hundred and fifty
pounds of lead, and five hundred flints, for the use of the
soldiers in said town.
Whereas, it is represented unto this Assembly, that the
arms and accoutrements, belonging to several companies in
the regiment under the command of Col. Richmond, were
deposited in the Continental store, in New London, or Ston-
ington, in Connecticut ; —
It is voted and resolved, that Mr. James Congdon, 3d, be?
1770.] AND 1'KoVlDENG'E PLANTATIONS 101
and he is hereby, appointed to remove said arms and ac-
coutrements from said Stonington, or New London, to
Charlestown, in Kings county ; that he deliver the one-half
thereof, to John Northup, Esq. ; and that he retain the re-
mainder, to be distributed by them among the troops that
may enlist in the regiments now ordered by this Assembly
to be raised.
It is voted and resolved, that Enoch Butts be immediately
removed by the sheriff of the county of Providence, or his
deputy, to the town of Cumberland, there to Continue at his
own expense, until further orders from this Assembly ; or?
in their recess, from the council of war.
And that if he shall leave said town, without permission
first had from this Assembly, or, in their recess, from said
council of war, the sheriffs and their deputies within this
state are hereby directed forthwith to apprehend and com-
mit him to the jail in the county in which he may be ap-
prehended.
It is voted and resolved, that Mr. John Smith procure,
for the use of Brigadier General Malmedy, two convenient
rooms, in the house of the widow Elizabeth Arnold, and fur-
nish said rooms with such furniture as he shall think proper,
of the goods now in his care, lately belonging to Mr. Dudley,
and procure such other articles as he may judge necessary
for that purpose.
That he also procure for him the barn and stables belong-
ing to said house ; and assign him such attendants as shall
be suitable for doing the services of the house, and for tak-
ing care of his horses ; and that he furnish the necessary
supplies of provisions, fuel and forage, whenever Gen. Mal-
medy shall be in town.
It is voted and resolved, that each of the members of the
council of war be allowed, in future, nine shillings for each
day's attendance, as members of said council ; and that upon
their producing a certificate, from the clerk of said council,
to the treasurer, of the number of da}-s of their attendance^
102 RECORDS OF THE COLONY OF RHODE ISLAND [DeC,
they be paid at, and after the rate, aforesaid, out of the gen-
eral treasury.
Whereas, Mr. James Sumner exhibited unto this Assem-
bly, an account by him charged against the state, for his
service, as an engineer, in laying out lines for the works of
defence erecting in and about the town of Providence ; and
the said account being duly examined, —
It is voted and resolved, that the same be, and hereby is,
allowed ; and that the amount thereof, being £12, lawful
money, be paid unto the said James Sumner, out of the gen-
eral treasury.
It is voted and resolved, that Mr. James Sumner be, and
he is hereby, appointed an assistant engineer within this
state, with the rank, pay and rations, of a captain ; and that
he be commissionated accordingly.
It is voted and resolved, that the committees of safety col-
lect the guns and accoutrements, within their respective dis-
tricts, belonging to this state, and remove them to places of
safety ; and that they make report of the number of guns,
to this Assembly, at the next session.
It is voted and resolved, that on the day for draughting
the regiments of militia, and independent companies of this
state, into three divisions, agreeably to an act passed at this
session, the commanding officers of the independent compa-
nies, in the town of Providence, shall meet together, and
draught for their turns by compauies ; and do duty, and re-
lieve each other, in the order in which they shall be drawn ;
and the commanding officers of the independent companies
of Pawtuxet Rangers, Kentish Guards and Kingston Reds,
shall meet on said day, and draught for turns, and do duty
by companies, as those in Providence ; any thing contained
in the aforesaid act, to the contrary, notwithstanding ; and
that the commanders of the aforesaid companies be each fur-
nished with a copy, hereof, immediately.
It is voted and resolved, that Mr. John Smith be, and he
is hereby, empowered to purchase a quantity of fish, on
1776.] AND PROVIDENCE PLANTATIONS. 103
board a brigantine about to be purchased for the use of this
state.
It is voted and resolved, that the sum of £318, lawful
money, be allowed to Mr. John Brown, for the brigantine
Sally, purchased of him by Mr. Joseph Brown, to be made
use of as a fire-ship for the service of this state ; and upon
his delivering to the said Joseph Brown, for the use of this
state, all the stores belonging to said brig, that the sum,
aforesaid, be paid him, out of the general treasury.
Whereas, the committees from the four New England
states, have passed the following resolve, to wit :
Resolve of the Committee of the Four New England States, at their
Meeting in Providence, December 30th, 1776.
" In Committee, December 30th, 177G.
This committee, taking into consideration the bounties and allowances, offered by
Congress, for enlisting the Continental battalions, appointed as the quota of the four
New England states, are of opinion, that, in the present situation of the aforesaid states,
it is impracticable to fill those battalions, without giving a still further encouragement
to men to enlist ; and that it is of the utmost necessity to complete them with all pos-
sible dispatch; and the said states havingjgiven different encouragement in their several
states, for filling the said battalions ; and this committee being of opinion, that if the
said states act upon one uniform plan, it will be attended with many advantages, —
Do resolve, that it be recommended to the several legislatures of the said states, to
give an additional bounty of £10, and a blanket, each year, while in service, as afore-
said ; or in lieu, thereof, eighteen shillings to the encouragement given by Congress to
the non-commissioned officers and private soldiers, who shall enlist into the said bat-
talions, for three years, or during the war, and to engage to supply them, while in
camp, with those articles necessary for soldiers, which are not furnished by Congress,
at the rates affixed to those articles by the several New England states, without any
charge for transportation, or other expenses ; which is considered by this commit-
tee as a greater encouragement to the soldiers, than hath been offered by any of the
said states."
Upon consideration whereof, —
It is voted and resolved, that this state will give an addi-
tional bounty of £4, to the £6, heretofore allowed by this
Assembly, and a blanket, each year, while in service ; or, in
lieu, thereof, eighteen shillings, to the encouragement given
by Congress, to the non-eommissioned officers and private
soldiers, who shall enlist into the battalions ordered to be
104 RECORDS OF THE STATE OF RHODE ISLAND [DEC,
raised by this Assembly, agreeably to the recommendation
from the Honorable the Continental Congress.
And this Assembly cloth hereby engage to supply them,
while in camp, with those articles, necessary for soldiers,
which are not furnished by Congress, at the rates affixed to
those articles, by the several New England states, without
any charge for transportation.
Whereas, this Assembly hath passed a resolve, for
draughting all male persons, subject by law to bear arms,
whether of the militia, alarm-list, or independent companies,
in three divisions ; and whereas, the committees, from the
four New England states, have passed a resolve, recommend-
ing that the militia of the said states, when called into the
same service, be placed upon the same footing, in point of
encouragement, wages and rations, —
It is therefore voted and resolved, that the non-commis-
sioned officers and private soldiers, who shall be draughted,
as aforesaid, shall be allowed and paid, when called into ac*
tual service, the bounty of twenty shillings, lawful money ;
and that they be allowed and paid, while in actual service,
the same wages that those of equal rank in the Continental
army are allowed and paid ; and the rations that are allowed
those of equal rank in the standing regiments of this state.
And it is further voted and resolved, that so much of said
resolve, as respects the wages and rations of the officers
and soldiers who shall be draughted, as aforesaid, be, and the
same is hereby, repealed.
And it is further voted and resolved, that the colonel, or
commanding officer of each regiment, or company, as afore-
said, be immediately furnished with a copy hereof.
It is voted and resolved, that the row-galley, now at
Providence, be ordered forthwith to proceed to Pawtuxet,
and there receive the orders of Commodore Esek Hopkins ;
and that a twelve-pound cannon be forthwith removed from
Pawtuxet to Warwick Neck.
It is voted and resolved, that Nathaniel Hamlinton, Rich-
1776.] AND PROVIDENCE PLANTATIONS. 105
ard Rogers and Lemuel Conants, deserters from the British
service, be allowed and paid, each £3, lawful money, out of
the general treasury, for a boat purchased of them.
Whereas, the committee of the four New England states,
now sitting, presented to this Assembly, the following re-
solve, to wit :
Additional Resolve of the Committee of the Four New England.
/States, Convened in Providence, in December, 1776.
Whereas, the militia of the seA'eral states of New England may be frequently called
into the same service ; and many inconveniences may be prevented, by their being
placed upon the same footing, in point of encouragement, wages and rations, —
Resolved, that it be recommended to the several states, aforesaid, that whenever the
militia of said states, or either of them, shall be called into service, for any term less
than two months, that the officers and soldiers be allowed and paid the same wages and
rations, that those of equal rank in the Continental army are allowed and paid.
And that it be further recommended, where the militia shall be called out for a term
more than two, and not exceeding four months, that the non-commissioned officers and
soldiers be paid a bounty of twenty shillings ; and where the term of their service shall
amount to five, and shall not exceed six months, that the non-commissioned officers and
soldiers be paid a bounty of forty shillings, over and above the Continental pay and
rations ; provided they shall voluntarily enlist into such service ; otherwise that
they have, and receive, the Continental wages and rations only, without any bounty,
as aforesaid."
Upon consideration, whereof, —
It is voted and resolved, that the above recommendation
be, and the same is hereby, approved ; and that the officers
and soldiers of the militia, of this state, when called into
actual service, be allowed the encouragement, wages and
rations, in said resolve specified.
It is voted and resolved, that it be, and hereby is, recom-
mended to the inhabitants of this state, who are pos-
sessed of cannon, warlike stores and sails, that they forth-
with remove them to places of safety ; and that if they
shall neglect to do it, the commanding officers within this
state are hereby directed to cause the same to be removed.
It is voted and resolved, that all non-commissioned officers
and private soldiers, who have enlisted into the standing
regiments of this state ; the battalion men under the en-
106 RECORDS OP THE STATE OF RHODE ISLAND [DEC,
courageuient of £3, lawful money, per month ; and the artil-
lery men, of £3 G-s\, per month, and will continue, and re-
enlist into said service, the battalion men upon the pay of
£2, per month, and the artillery men of £2 4s., per month,
shall be paid an additional bounty hereafter mentioned.
And all those who will not re-enlist, as aforesaid, upon the
encouragement of forty shillings for the battalion men, and
forty-four shillings for the artillery men, per month ; and
will re-pay, to the officers who enlisted them, all such
moneys as they may have received, either for bounty or
wages, shall thereupon be discharged ; and if any enlisted
soldier shall be unable to re-pay said moneys, and will not
re-enlist, as aforesaid, he shall be retained in service upon
the terms of his enlistment, until his wages shall amount to
the moneys he may have received ; allowing for each month
over and above his wages, one-fifteenth part of the bounty
received.
And it is further voted and resolved, that each person en-
listing as a soldier in the service of this state, after three
days from the rising of this Assembly, shall be paid, over
and above the bounty for enlisting, mentioned in the act for
raising them, an additional bounty of clothing ; of one uni-
form coat, three pair of woolen hose, two pair of shoes, one
hat, and two shirts ; and be entitled to wages, the battalion
men, at the rate of £2, per month ; and the artillery men,
£2 4s., per month ; to be paid them, agreeably to the terms
for the payment of wages, in said act mentioned.
And it is further voted and resolved, and this state do
engage, that every enlisted soldier in the service of this
state, shall be supplied with the necessaries and conven-
iences of life, at the prices and rates affixed by the act
made at this session of Assembly, for affixing the prices
and rates at which goods shall be bought and sold, within
this state.
And it is further voted and resolved, that so much of the
act for raising two battalions, and a regiment of the train,
l?T6i] AND PRoVlDlvNCK PLANTATIONS, 107
for the service of this state, &c, passed at this present ses-
sion, as relates to the monthly wages of the soldiers, be, and
the same is hereby, repealed.
Both houses in a grand committee, chose the following
officers, viz. ;
Officers Chosen for the Spitfire RonH/allej/, and the Militia.
Isaac Tyler, captain ; Josiah Simmons, first lieutenant ;
Abel Weathers, second lieutenant, of the row-galley Spit-
fire.
Joseph Fuller, ensign, of the fourth company of militia, in
Providence, in the room of David Bacon, chosen a lieuten-
ant in CoL Tallman's regiment.
It is voted and resolved, that James Arnold, Jr., Esq., be,
and he is hereby, empowered to purchase of Mr. Richard
Greene, the corn, oats, rye, pork and sheep, he has on hand,
for the use of this state, and to remove the same to places
of safety ; and that if the said Richard Greene shall refuse
to dispose of said articles to this state, the said James Ar-
nold be empowered to take the same, allowing him, therefor,
at the prices affixed by this Assembly ; and all civil and
military officers are hereby required to aid and assist him in
the execution of this business.
It is voted and resolved, that the council of war be, and
they are hereby, requested to employ couriers to proceed
from this place to Connecticut and New Hampshire, agreea-
bly to the recommendations of the committee from the four
New England states.
This General Assembly taking into consideration a letter
from John Northup, Esq., to His Honor the Governor, in-
forming him that Thos. Freebody, by permission from Gem
Clinton, had sent over with a flag of truce, from Newport,
seventeen women and ten children, who were landed in
North Kingstown ; and also enclosing a copy of a letter
from the said Thomas Freebody, to the said John Northup,
108 RECORDS OE THE STATE OF RHODE ISLAND [DeC,
acquainting him that a number of other women and chil-
dren in Newport, have passes from General Clinton, to come
to the main land for subsistence, and desiring to know
whether boats will be allowed to bring them to Updike's
Newtown, that they may be subsisted upon the main
land, —
Do resolve, that John Northup, Sylvester Gardner and
Thomas Bissell, or any two of them, be, and they are here-
by, appointed a committee, to make inquiry into the con-
nexions of the said women and children, already landed ;
and in case it shall appear that any of them are mothers,
wives, sisters or children, to persons in the service of this, or
any of the United States, or in the Continental service, that
such persons be received and supported at the expense of
this state, in such places as the said committee shall think fit?
until further orders from this Assembly.
That such of the said women and children as are related
to any person in this state, who is obliged by law to main-
tain them, be also received, and sent, as soon as may be, to
the persons so obliged to maintain them ; that the others
be returned to Newport by the flag which brought them.
That the said John Northup be directed to inform the
said Thomas Freebody, that no poor women and children
will be received from the town of Newport, unless pre-
vious permission be obtained from the General Assembly,
or, in the recess of it, from the council of war ; and that the
boat, which brought the said poor, with the officer and
crew, be detained until the committee shall make inquiry,
and determine, as aforesaid,
It is voted and resolved, that the proceedings of the com-
mittee from the New England states be, and the same are
hereb}^, approved ; and that the same be adopted by this
state, so far as relates thereto.
It is voted and resolved, that Henry Ward and Jonathan
Arnold, Esqs,, be, and they are hereby, appointed a commit-
tee to transmit, as soon as possible, to the Honorable the
Continental Congress, a fair copy of the whole proceedings
1776.] AND PROVIDENCE PLANTATIONS. 109
of the committee from the New England states ; and that
they also assign the reasons of the meeting of said com--
mittee.
It is voted and resolved, that agreeably to the recommen-
dation of the committee, from the four states of New Eng-
land, that the last Wednesday of January instant, be ob-
served as a day of public fasting, humiliation and prayer,
throughout this state ; that His Honor the Governor be,
and he is hereby, requested to issue a proclamation accord-
ingly ; and that all servile labor and recreation be forbidden
on that day.
It is voted and resolved, that one hundred and twenty
copies of the resolution of this Assembly, altering the
bounty and wages of the three regiments now raising with-
in this state, be immediately printed ; and that Theodore
Foster, Esq., procure the same to be clone, and to forward to
some one of the field-officers, in each regiment, twenty
copies ; and to each of the members of the committee of
safety, seven copies thereof; to be by them distributed
amongst the officers in said regiments as soon as possible.
Voted and resolved, that the following accounts be paid
out of the general treasury :
BUh to be Paid.
£ s. d.
Richard Smith, for distributing proclamations for a fast, in the county of
Bristol, removing stock from the island of Prudence, &c 2 05 00
William Channing, for his expenses and services as assistant clerk, at several
sessions of the General Assembly 5 19 06
Thomas Hubbart, for his time and expenses, in carrying a warrant to Col.
Brown, at West Greenwich, to call together his regiment in consequence
of an alarm 13 06
Josias Lyndon, for his expenses in attending at several sessions of the Gen-
eral Assembly, as clerk of the lower house 6 06 00
Stephen Harding, for his expenses in going express to Boston 2 14 00
Gideon Mumford, one of the standing committee of audit, for his time and
expenses in attending the General Assembly, at Little Rest 3 13 06
Benjamin Medbury, for his time and expenses in notifying the members of
the General Assembly, in the county of Providence, to convene at East
Greenwich 2 00 00
110 Records of tMM state of rHode island [Dec-
John Cartel-, for printing proclamations for a fast, and various acts of the
General Assembly . -. 30 10 00
John Fenner, for his time and expenses, in numbering the inhabitants of the
town of Johnston ... 2 05 00
Thomas Wells, for his time and expenses, in taking an account of the number
of inhabitants of the town of Hopklnton 9 12 00
Shearjashub Bourne, for his services in taking an account of the number of
inhabitants in the town of Bristol 1 10 00
George Peiree, for his time and expenses in numbering the inhabitants of the
town of Exeter ' • ' ■ , 3 03 00
Benjamin Underwood, for services and expenses in taking an account of the
number of inhabitants in Jamestown 18 00
James Congtfon, 3d, for his time and expenses in going express to Gov.
Trumbull. . ,, 8 19 00
William Willson Pollock, for his time and expenses in carrying orders to the
captains in Col. Sands's regiment . . 2 13 00
William Stevens, for his time and expenses in carrying warrants from the
Governor to the several colonels of militia in the county of Providence. 2 14 00
Martin Seamans and Theodore Foster, for their time and expenses in taking
an account of the number of inhabitants in the town of Providence 3 14 00
Daniel Rodman, for his expenses to New London, to negotiate for an ex-
change of prisoners ■.-. i . ■. i 6 18 01
Daniel Rodman for his time, horsediire and expenses, in going to New Lon-
don, to watch the enemy's fleet ;i 4 02 00
William Turner Miller, for his time in taking the number of inhabitants in
the town of Warren . . ; * . 1 10 00
Ephraim Westcott, for his time and expenses taking an account of the num-
ber of inhabitants in the town of Coventry 3 00 00
William Steven?, for his time and expenses, to Newport and South Kings-
town, to notify the committee, appointed to act in the recess of the Gen-
eral Assembly, to meet at Providence, in September last 2 16 00
William Stevens, for his time and expenses, in going express to Lebanon
and Hartford, to Governor Trumbull 5 11 00
William Stevens, for his time and expenses, in going express from the Gov-
ernor, to the General Court, at Boston i 3 10 00
Nicholas Cooke, for part of the cargo, and sundry disbursements, on the
sloop Diamond, fitted out for the government 86 18 04
Rouse J. Helme, for his services in preparing the acts and orders of the Gen-
eral Assembly for the press ; and as clerk to the council of war, &c 32 13 00
Joseph Clarke, for superintending the printing of paper-bills 3 00 00
■Cromel Child, for materials and labor on the flat-bottomed boats, ordered to
be built for the service of the government 161 09 02
Benjamin Mumford, for his time and expenses in going from Newport to
Westerly ; and for two journeys from Newport to Providence, by order
of John Collins, Esq., and Col. Cooke 5 17 00
Nathaniel Mumford, one of the standing committee of audit, for his expenses
at Providence, in examining a number of accounts, and for attending on
the General Assembly 5 1 1 00
Doctor Amos Throop, for sundry medicines delivered to Mr. Jacob Greene,
for the use of the state 4 14 06
James Arnold, for keeping the horses of a troop from Connecticut, under
Capt. Hall 19 11 04
1776.]
AND PROVIDENCE PLANTATIONS. Ill
Benjamin Lamed, tor expenses of himself ami eight men, and their horses,
as a guard for ten prisoners, sent to Worcester jail 45 06 00
John Brown, for provisions, liquors, &c, supplied by him, for the use of the
troops stationed within this state 438 08 44
Thomas Church, Esq., for his time and expenses, to Watertown, on public
business; to New London, to negotiate an exchange of prisoners; and
for cash paid Jonathan Brooks, for going express from New London to
East Greenwich, to give information of the arrival there, of a flag from
Lord Howe 13 09 05
John Lassell, for two-and-threc-quarter loads of hay, supplied by him for the
use of General Lincoln's baggage-teams 24 15 00
Nicholas Cooke, for sixty-five barrels of flour, delivered to Commissary
Aborn, for the use of the troops 181 15 01
House J. Helme, for his attendance as clerk to the committee from the four
states of New England 30 00
God save the United States of America.
Gen. Lee to the Governor of Rhode Island.
Pompton, 7th December, 1776.
Dear Sir : — As there is now no doubt of the enemy's directing a considerable force
towards your island, my duty to the public, and my regard for the welfare of your
colony, in particular, urge me to every expedient which may be serviceable to you ;
and I must entreat you not to impute the freedom with which I shall offer my thoughts
upon this occasion, to a petulance of disposition, but to the most pure and disinterested
zeal.
I have, sir, from what I have observed of the New England troops, the highest con-
fidence in the valor of your men and common run of your officers, particularly those
who are of the younger part. They have activity and fire ; and in general, more
knowledge than those advanceed in years, who are not only destitute of knowledge,
but incapable, from a certain rustiness of mind and temper, of acquiring any. In fact,
the only advantage of years in any profession is, that it enables us to add to our stock
of knowledge. But if we do not avail ourselves of the days which nature has made a
present of to us for this purpose, the more years have passed over our heads, the more
disqualified are we, for the profession of a soldier, of any rank.
Now it unfortunately happens in New England, that to the most disqualified the
highest trusts are committed. To speak directly, the appointments of generals in your
provinces, threaten destruction ; but in fact, it is impossible that you should have men
equal to this arduous task. Theory joined to practice, or a heaven born genius, can
alone constitute a general. As to the latter, God Almighty indulges' the modern
world very rarely with the spectacle ; and I do not know, from what I have seen, that
lie has been more profuse of this ethereal spirit to the Americans, than to other
nations.
But to come to the point : Rhode Island will probably be attacked ; your men and
younger officers are good ; but I am persuaded you have no man with you, capable of
conducting an army ; no man who has sufficient knowledge as an engineer. I have
therefore resolved to send a gentleman, with whose great talents, activity and zeal I
am well acquainted. His name is Malmedy, a Frenchman. I entreat, if you can.
not give him the entire command, to be directed by his counsels. You must excuse
112 RECORDS OF THE STATE OF RHODE ISLAND [DEC,
his heat of temper at times, as it is derived from a noble source of enthusiasm for your
cause. Procure from him an able interpreter ; and treat him, as I am sure you will,
with all the respect and attention he deserves. God bless you, sir.
Believe me to be, most devotedly, yours,
CHARLES LEE.
To Governor Gooke.
P. S. I believe I shall send you Colonel Varnum ; but 1 hope you will continue to
sive Mr. Malmedv high colonial rank, which will lead him to Continental.
The Governor of Rhode Island to Gen. Washington.
Providence, December 8th, 1776, i
Past 10 o'clock, P. M. \
Sir : — It is with great concern, I give you the disagreeable intelligence that the ene-
my, with a fleet consisting of seventy-eight ships-of-war and transports, entered the
harbor of Newport, yesterday.
We had about six hundred men upon Rhode Island, who were obliged to evacuate
it, with the loss of about fifteen or twenty heavy cannon ; having taken off the ammu-
nition and stores, and the greatest part of the stock. The enemy have full possession
of the island.
I am informed by General West and Lieutenant Barron, of the Providence, that they
landed this morning, about eight o'clock, with eight thousand men, who marched in
three divisions ; one towards Newport, the second towards Howland's Ferry, and the
third to Bristol Ferry ; where they arrived time enough to fire upon the boats that
brought over our last men, but without doing damage.
I have sent repeated expresses to the Massachusetts Bay and Connecticut. The
forces of the former are upon the march, as I believe the latter are, also. In great
haste. I am Your Excellency's most obedient, humble servant,
NICHOLAS COOKE.
To His Excellency General Washington.
Gen. Washington to the Governor of Rhode Island.
Camp above Trenton Falls, j
December 21st, 1776. \
Sir :— I have been honored with your favor of the 8th instant. The loss of Rhode
Island gives me much concern, though an event that could not be well guarded
against.
I am happy that most of the stock had been removed ; and wish the cannon could
have also been brought away, our want of them being great, by reason of our late
losses. Notwithstanding this descent, and the intelligence of more ships going down
the Sound, I cannot persuade myself that the enemy will attempt any thing capital
upon the main ; they will most probably confine themselves to the island. But if they
have other views, I trust that the succors from the two neighboring states, with your
own force, will be able to baffle their most vigorous efforts, and prevent the progress of
their arms. It would give me infinite pleasure if the situation of our affairs in this
quarter, would allow me to afford you the assistance I could wish ; but it will not. All
in my power to do, J have done.
Upon the first intelligence that a fleet was going down the Sound, with troops on
board, I wrote to Generals Spencer and Arnold, to repair to the eastward, and to pur-
?\
■-■■
MAJOR CENERAL N ATH AN I EL G R E E N E
1777.]
AND PROVIDENCE PLANTATIONS. 113
sue such measures as circumstances should seem to require. My letter to General
Arnold did not get to hand, owing to the uncertainty of his route, till he had almost
reached this. He sets out to-morrow morning ; and 1 doubt not these two gentlemen
will render you many essential services. In respect to the other aid, I cannot give
you.
The Delaware now divides our small force from General Howe's army, a large part
of which is cantoned in the neighboring towns; which, from appearances, and many
concurring reports, is only waiting an opportunity to pass. As soon as the ice is
formed, they will try to effect it. General Howe's Object, beyond all question, is to
possess Philadelphia ; and I could heartily wish there was not too much grounds for
some disagreeable apprehensions on that head. Without more vigorous exertions on
the part of the people, than what have appeared of late, I see but little to prevent him
from accomplishing his purpose.
In the course of a few days, the last of this month, the force I now have, by no
means equal to his, will, by the impolicy and fatal system of short enlistments, be reduced
to a mere handful, unless the militia can be prevailed on to give their aid. As yet, but
very few, those of the city excepted, have got in motion, notwithstanding the most
pressing solicitations, and apparent intentions of the enemy to invade their state and
seize their capital. How things will turn out, the event must determine; at present,
the prospect is gloomy. 1 have the honor to be, &c,
GEO. WASHINGTON,
To Governor Cooke, Rhode Island.
Gen. Greene fo the Governor of Rhode Island.
Coryell's Ferry, December 21st, 1 7 7 * > .
Dear sir :-— By jour letter to General Washington, I find the British troops have
landed on Rhode Island. Although I am sorry my own country should be subject to
their ravages, yet I rejoice that they are surrounded by a people who are united, and
firmly determined in opposition.
You may be subject to a partial evil, but America cannot fail to reap the advantage.
You think you are greatly infested with tories and disaffected ; but there is but the
shadow of disaffection with you, to what there is here. The Friends, or Quakers, are,
almost to a man, disaffected, Many have the affrontery to refuse the Continental cur-
rency. This line of conduct cannot fail drawing down the resentment of the people
upon them. The fright and disaffection was so great in the Jerseys, that in our re-
treat of one hundred and odd miles, we were never joined by more than a hundred
men. I dare say, had that army been in New England, we should not have been under
the necessity of retreating twenty miles.
We are now on the west side of the Delaware ; our force, though small, collected to.
gether ; but small as it is, I hope to give the enemy a stroke in a few days. Should
fortune favor the attack, perhaps it may put a stop to General Howe's progress. His
ravages in the Jerseys exceed all description. Men slaughtered ; women ravished ;
mothers and daughters ravished in presence of the husbands and sons, who were
obliged to be spectators to their brutal conduct. I thereb\-, notwithstanding the gen-
eral disaffection of a certain order of people, [believe] the army will fill up. Should
that be the case, nothing is to be feared.
By a vessel just arrived from France, with a valuable cargo, we learn a French war
is inevitable. Short enlistments have been, in a great measure, the source of all the
misfortunes that we labor under ; though, thank God ! but few to what we at first ex-
pected. The Congress, in the infancy of politics, could not be brought to believe
many serious truths. By attending to speculative principles rather than real life, their
yor.. rill i 15
114 RECORDS OF THE STATE OF RHODE ISLAND [JAN.
maxims in war have been founded in folly. However, experience ripens judgment,
and enables us to correct many an error in business that at first we could not conceive
of; and I don't doubt the Congress in time will be as able politicians in military mat-
ters, as they are in civil government.
The eastern delegates made application to General Washington for me to come to
Rhode Island, but the General would not consent. He thinks more is to be trusted to
the virtue of your people than to the force of this country. As the enemy have got pos-
session of Rhode Island, and done all the mischief they can, it will not be bad policy to
let them remain in quiet, until spring. To attempt any against them, unless
you are sure of success, will be a very dangerous manoeuvre. 'Tis an endless task to
attempt to cover all the country. You must drive back the stock from the shores, and
make a disposition to cover capital objects. By too great a division of your force,
you'll be incapable of making any considerable opposition whenever they may think
proper to make a descent. But it is my opinion they will be peaceable if you will ; for,
from the best accounts we can get, they consist of the invalids of the army. They
may attempt to plunder the shores, but nothing more than that, this winter ; for I am
confident they have no hopes of penetrating into the country. If they make any de-
scent, it will be against Providence, to seize the stores and burn the town. This is
very probable ; as thfi tories will endeavor, in Newport, to spirit them on to such an
attempt ; but unless it is already done, you have nothing to fear.
I am told some malicious reports [have been] propagated industriously about me, re-
specting the loss of the baggage and stores at Fort Lee. They are as malicious as they
are untrue. I can bring very good vouchers for my conduct, in every instance ; and
have the satisfaction to have it approved by the General, under Avhom I serve. Every
thing was got off" from that place that could be, with the roads and wagons Ave had to
move the stores with. The evacuation of Fort Lee was determined upon several
days before the enemy landed above us ; and happily, all the most valuable stores
were away. The enemy's publication of the cannon and stores then taken, is a grand
falsehood ; not an article of military stores was left there, or nothing worth men-
tioning.
The Congress have removed to Baltimore. General Spencer and General Arnold
are coming to take the command at Rhode Island. Arnold is a fine, spirited fellow,
and an active general. I hope they keep the enemy at bay. My respects to your
family, and all my Providence friends.
Believe me to be, with the greatest respect,
Your most obedient and very humble servant,
NATH. GREENE.
To Governor Cooke.
Gen. Washington to the Governor of Rhode Island.
Morristown, January the 20th, 1777.
Sir — I am exceeding sorry to hear your state has ordered several battalions to be
raised for the defence of the state, only ; and this, before proper measures are taken to
fill the Continental regiments.
You cannot be insensible how unequal any one state is, unconnected with the others,
to defend itself, if the enemy should make a descent against it, with any considerable
force ; neither have you the least reason to think you would desire less protection from
the troops, if they were raised upon the Continent's account, than that of the state. If
each state was to prepare for its own defence, independent of the others, they would
all be conquered in a short time, one by one. Our success must depend on a firm
union, and a strict adherence to the general plan ; other measures may produce a par-
tial relief, but never can remove the principal evil.
1777.] AND PROVIDENCE PLANTATIONS. 115
You must bo sensible the season is fast approaching, when a new campaign will
open ; nay, the former is not yet closed ; neither do I intend it shall, unless the enemy
quit the Jerseys.
It is of the last importance to the interest of America, that the new regiments be
speedily levied ; it will give me an opportunity in the forepart of the campaign, before
the enemy can collect their force, or receive any reinforcement from home, to give
them a fatal stab. Such a blow, in the beginning of the season, might terminate the
campaign to great advantage. I am sure the necessity of having the Continental regi-
ments immediately completed, is too obvious, to need any further arguments. I hope
the powers of government are such, as to complete the new levies by draught, if they
cannot be filled seasonably by voluntary enlistments.
Necessity obliges me to call on you (as I shall on every other state), in the most
pressing terms, to complete, without delay, your proportion of the eighty-eight bat-
talions. I am confident the raising of the two regiments at the expense of the state
before the Continental regiments are complete, can answer no valuable purpose. If the
enemy should make a descent upon Rhode Island with any considerable force, the op-
position of two regiments will be inconsiderable. If they only infest the coast with
their ships, the militia will answer a better purpose, and at a far less expense. I must
confess I am ignorant of the reasons that induced the Assembly to adopt the measure ;
neither can I conceive of the use and policy of the scheme ; I wish it may not be pro-
ductive of more injury than benefit, by introducing innovations and changes, that
must retard the filling the Continental regiments, and consequently prejudice the gen-
eral interest, which every state must have an eye to. The obligation on your stateis
greater than on any other ; being most exposed, and the least capable of making a
separate defence.
Our affairs here, are in a very prosperous train. Within a month past, in several
engagements with the enemy, we have killed, wounded and taken prisoners between
two and three thousand. I am very confident the enemy's losses will oblige them to
re-call their force from your state. If I am properly supported, I hope to close the
campaign gloriously for America.
I am, with the greatest regard and esteem, sir,
Your most obedient, humble servant,
GEO. WASHINGTON.
To Governor Cooke.
Gen. Greene to the Governor of Rhode Island.
Morristown, January the 23d, 1777.
Dear Sir : — I am exceeding unhappy to hear of your resolution of raising troops at
the expense of the state, before your proportion of the Continental regiments is com-
pleted. The forming of new regiments only serve to burthen the state without giving
it any additional strength.
There is not a state upon the Continent whose interest and happiness depends so
much on a union with the others, as yours. You are the most exposed, and the least
capable of making a separate defence ; consequently, 'tis your interest to cultivate every
measure that may tend to form the union of strength ; and it must be considered bad
policy to give an example to others, from which you can derive little or no advantage,
and that may prove so ruinous in its consequences.
Suppose, for instance, every state was to neglect the completion of the Continental
regiments, and prepare for their own internal security ? where is the state that's able
to withstand the enemy's collective force ? If the Continent had troops enough on foot
to baffle all the enemy's attempts, and were located to particular states, they must in-
evitably fall a sacrifice for want of a power of drawing the whole collective force to-
116 RECORDS OF THE STATE OF RHODE ISLAND [JA$.
gether. You have no reason to hope, if you neglect the general interest, and take
measures for your own particular safety, but that others will do the same ; and it is a
folly to expect that troops raised for the defence of any particular state, will enter into
the service of the states. In general, it is in vain to expect more of soldiers than they
are bound by contract to execute;
The source of all our evils has been, by taking measures from speculative principles,
rather than from real life* The policy of the states has been pregnant with many evils,
by rating our patriotism too high; This kind of policy has distressed the army beyond
description ; and if I mistake not, this measure of yours has a direct tendency to conj
tinue things in the same channel ; it may afford you a temporary relief, but never can
remove the principal evil.
Divine Providence has given a very favorable turn to affairs, and at an hour when
people least expected it. J\Toic is the happy hour to complete the Continental establish-
ment. Every state to the southward is exerting itself to fill up its proportion ; not a
moment should be lost. If the regiments don't fill up by voluntary enlistments, they
must be draughted. I hope the powers of government are strong enough to do it. I
have not the least shadow of doubt upon my mind, of the success of the war, if the dif-
ferent states raise their men ; but on that, the whole depends.
I hope the cause is not less righteous, nor opposition less necessary, than it was at the
commencement of this dispute. It was a folly to embark in the cause, and sink
under the weight of a few misfortunes. He that goes to Avar, and always expects a
flowing tide, is a novice in the art, and ignorant of human affairs. Our sufferings
though great, bear no proportion to our expectations at first. Our resources are daily
increasing : we have now a fine nursery of officers, whose judgments are daily ripening
by experience and observation. A systematic plan is formed for the exertion of our
whole strength. Magazines, arms and military stores of every kind, are forming and
formed, to supply the wants of the army. If it was prudent to engage in this war,
without any of those advantages, how foolish must our conduct appear,- to despair at
an hour when we have much to hope, and little to fear.
I must confess I did not expect to find the Americans such slaves to contingencies;
but more especially New England, and in particular Rhode Island. Such a depression
of spirit under misfortunes, and elevation upon successes, betrays a want of principle
and fortitude, that I would fain flatter myself were the foundation of our opposition;
Let any man examine the history of any war in Europe, and compare ours with theirs,
and see if there has any thing happened different from the common course of events
that attend every war. Nay, I think we have abundant cause to bless God that our'
sufferings have not been greater than they have. A general officer is in a very disa-
greeable situation ; subject to the censure and reproach of every little dirty politician,
ignorant of every circumstance necessary to form a right judgment. But such is the
disposition of mankind, that success only marks the man of wisdom, while the unfortu-
nate are execrated without any allowances for Providential interpositions or human
accidents-
I am very sorry to hear of the distraction and confusion that prevails in your coun-
cils and public measures. The liberality with which you confer favors on some,
and fix stigmas on others, must make men of real merit somewhat cautious how they
put themselves in a situation where they may be reduced from the highest pitch of
glory, to the lowest state of contempt. It was ever the policy of the Romans to be
cautious whom they trusted, and how they disgraced those they had once honored.
I saw a letter from one Malmedy, a French gentleman, to His TOxcellency General
Washington, Whom you have appointed a brigadier general; and a copy of a letter
from General Lee, to your state, recommending him for a chief colonel's commission;
General Lee's letter contains some infamous and very illiberal reflections upon the
genius of all the New England states ; however just the observations, with respect to
particular appointments, 'tis certainly very unjust when applied to the whole body of
1777.]
AND PROVIDENCE PLANTATIONS. 117
the people. There are us many men of spirit, activity and understanding in New Eng-
land, as in any part of the world, according to tlieir numbers.
A novelty of things of foreign growth, often makes us rate them above those of more
solid worth of our production. The gentleman that General Lee recommended, may
be deserving, and possess every quality ascribed to him ; but 1 must confess I have
not the highest veneration fbr the General's recommendation. His temper scarce ad-
mits of a proper medium to form a just estimate of people and things. His approba-
tion and execration depend often upon trifles ; besides, the General don't know the
power he has over the Americans, and consequently is not cautious enough in his re-
commendations not to abuse it.
Some amongst you, I am told, are uncharitable enough to charge the army with a
design of protracting the war for their own private advantage. The bosonl that can
harbor such a thought, must be very ill principled, and ignorant of our sufferings. For
my own part, Heaven knows there is not a man in America, that would more sincerely
rejoice at the close of this unhappy dispute, than myself; neither have I a single wish to
continue in service a moment longer than the interest and happiness of my country re-
quire it. I would freely give place to any man that should be found more deserving.
I am conscious of having faithfully discharged my duty to the utmost of my power ;
and although I have not beeh able to command success, I have religiously endeavored
to deserve it. I am happy in the confidence of the general whose merit and worth
cannot be too highly rated.
Yet I am told there are sonle ungodly tongues among you (whose greatest virtue
don't equal the General's very vices), who give themselves a latitude of censure.
Ever since the Trenton affair, we have had a continual train of successes. The Lord
Betettis to have smote the enemy with a panic. I Wish our strength would admit a
proper improvement ; but our delicate situation requires the utmost caution and pru-
dence. The enemy are near three thousand weaker than they were a month ago.
Our parties have daily skirmishes, in which We have been always successful. His
Excellency has ordered General Heath to advance on Newport, to co-operate with us ;
the result of which I have not learned ; but we have a rumor it is attended with suc-
cess. General Spencer and Arnold are with you in this ; I long to hear of your situa.
tion. I expect General Knox will pass through Providence. I beg leave to recom-
mend him to your warmest friendship, as a most deserving man. His spirit, military
knowledge and ripeness of judgment, is inferior to very few, if any, in America. I shall
close this long letter, with strongly recommending the filling the Continental regiments
immediately. I am, with the greatest sincerity and truth,
Your most obedient, humble servant,
NATH. GREENE.
To Governor Cooke.
John Hancock, President of the Continental Congress, to the General
Assent big of Rhode Island.
Baltimore, January 81st, 1777.
Gentlemen :— ^As there is not a more distinguished event in the history of America,
than the declaration of her Independence — nor any that, in all probability, will so
much excite the attentioh of future ages, it is highly proper, that the memory of that
transaction, together with the causes that gave rise to it> should be preserved in the
most careful manner that can be devised.
I am therefore commanded by Congress, to transmit to you the enclosed copy of the
*»ct of independence, with the list of the several members of Congress, subscribed
118 RECORDS OF THE STATE OF RHODE ISLAND [FEB.
thereto ; and to request that you will cause the same to be put upon record, that it may
henceforth form a part of the archives of your state and union, a lasting testimony of
your approbation of that necessary and important measure.
I have the honor to be, gentlemen,
Your most obedient and very humble servant,
JOHN HANCOCK, President.
To the Honorable Assembly of the state of Rhode Island.
Proceedings of the General Assembly, held for the State of Rhode
Island and Providence Plantations, at Providence, on the first
Monday in February, 1777.
The Hon. Nicholas Cooke, Governor.
The Hon. William Bradford, Deputy Governor.
It is voted and resolved, that Mr. John Brown, Henry
Ward and Daniel Rodman, Esqs., be, and they are hereby,
appointed a committee to draught letters in answer to
the letters received from His Excellency General Washing-
ton and General Greene ; that they also draught a letter to
Congress ; that they make report, as soon as may be.
It is voted and resolved, that Col. Samuel Aborn be, and
he is hereby, empowered to draw out of the general treasu-
ry the sum of <£200, lawful money, for the use of the troops
raised by this state.
Whereas, the committee from the town council of the
town of Providence represented unto this Assembly, that
the house at present improved for a hospital, for the small
pox, is very inconvenient for the purpose ; as thereby, a
very important pass, to and from the town, in case of an at-
tack from the enemy, is greatly obstructed ; and the carry-
ing thither persons who break out with that distemper,
gives great uneasiness to the troops stationed in said town,
who, by reason of the vicinity of the hospital thereto, are
in great danger of taking the distemper ; a communication
of which, among the troops, at this critical period, would be
1777.] AND PROVIDENCE PLANTATIONS. 119
attended with the most fatal conseqences ; and that consid-
eration thereof, induced the Honorable Major General Spen-
cer to request that a more suitable place for a hospital might
be procured in a retired situation.
In consequence of which, a town meeting was called,
which appointed a person to look out for such a place ; who
reported to the town council, that he found no place so suit-
able for the purpose, as a house in North Providence, owned
by Jesse Lealand, about three miles from the market, in
said town of Providence ; and thereupon, the said commit-
tee requested that the said town council, or a suitable com-
mittee, appointed by this Assembly for that purpose, might
be empowered to make use of the house of the said Jesse
Lealand, for the purpose, aforesaid, they paying a reasona-
ble rent therefor ; and that they, or said committe, might
be empowered to remove thither any persons who may be
taken sick with the small pox in said town of Providence ;
and to grant liberty to some suitable person to inoculate
those who live in said house, and have not had the distem-
per, if they have an inclination therefor ; or such as may be
employed as nurses at said hospital ; —
It is therefore voted and resolved, that the town council
of the town of Providence be, and they are hereby, empow-
ered to take possession of the house owned by Jesse Lea-
land, in North Providence, for the purpose, aforesaid ; they
allowing a reasonable rent for the use of the same, and
the damages the tenant, John Jenckes Durfey, may suffer
by his sudden removal ; and that upon any persons being
carried into said house, who may have taken the small pox,
in the natural way, that the tenant, his family and the
nurses, may be inoculated ; and that the same be under the
direction of the town council of the town of Providence ;
and that they request General Spencer to place the neces-
sary guards.
It is voted and resolved, that the committees of safety
within this state be, and they are hereby, directed to pay
the additional wages allowed to the officers who accepted
120 RECORDS OF THE STATE OF RHODE ISLAND [FEB.
Continental commissions, in the regiments lately under the
command of the Colonels Richmond and Lippitt.
It is voted and resolved, that the field-officers, captains,
lieutenants, ensigns, and other officers and privates of the
militia and alarm-list, within this state, who have been
draughted, and have done, or shall do, duty, agreeably to
the acts of this Assembly, passed at the last session, shall re-
ceive the following wages and rations, to wit :
Pa/I and Rations of the Officers and Soldiers of the 31ititia.
Rations per day.
- 0
4
o
- O
- 2
2
2
= 2
4
, 1
1
- 1
1
. 1
And it is further voted and resolved, that the captains,
lieutenants and ensigns, of the several independent compa-
nies within this state, who have been draughted, and have
done, or shall do, duty, as is above specified, shall be entitled
to, and receive the same wages that are allowed to the offi-
cers of the militia and alarm-list, and the same number of
rations that are allowed the several militia officers with
whom they respectively rank ; and that the non-commis-
sioned officers and privates of said companies, also receive
the same bounties, wages and rations, as are allowed to the
Wages per month,
£ s.
A colonel -
22 10
A lieutenant colonel.
18 00
A major -
15 00
A captain
12 00
A lieutenant
8 02
An ensign
6 00
An adjutant
12 00
A quartermaster -
7 10
A major of brigade,
9 18
Sergeants
2 08
Corporals *
-2 04
Drummers -
2 04
Fifers
2 04
Privates
2 00
1777.] AND PROVIDENCE PLANTATIONS. 121
non-commissioned officers and privates of the militia, or
alarm-list, as aforesaid.
It is voted and resolved, that the schooner Mary, Thomas
Williams, master, belonging to William Brown, of Dighton,
in the state of Massachusetts Bay, be permitted to proceed
to Hispaniola, under the regulations and restrictions with
which vessels have heretofore been permitted to sail, by the
council of war.
It is voted and resolved, that the non-commissioned offi-
cers and privates, who have enlisted into the brigade rais-
ing by this state, for iifteen months, may enlist into the
Continental battalions raising by this state ; and that they
receive, therefor, an additional bounty, so as to make it equal
to the bounty allowed to able-bodied men enlisting into said
battalions.
Whereas, Messrs. Job Spencer, William Hopkins and
Thomas Matteson, preferred a petition to this Assembly,
setting forth that they were draughted in the first division
in Col. Brown's regiment, and warned to appear at East
Greenwich, on the 7th day of January last past ; that they
did not appear until the 20th day of the same month ; and
thereupon prayed that they might be permitted to make up
their deficiency, by serving an equal number of days in the
second division, and be exempted from the fine which by
law they are liable to ; and the premises being duly con-
sidered,—
It is voted and resolved, that the prayer of said petition
be, and the same is hereby, granted.
It is voted and resolved, that every non-commissioned of-
ficer and private soldier belonging to this state, who shall
enlist for three years, or during the present war with Great
Britain, shall, in addition to the pay and encouragement
given by the Continental Congress, be entitled to, and re-
ceive, the sum of .£16, lawful money, on his passing muster,
which shall be in lieu of all other bounty and encourage-
ment heretofore offered by the General Assembly of this
state ; and that this Assembly will furnish each non-
122 RECORDS OF THE STATE OF RHODE ISLAND [FEB.
commissioned officer and private, who shall enlist as afore-
said, with arms and accoutrements, a blanket and knapsack,
in behalf of the Continent.
An Act for the relief of persons of tender consciences, and
and for preventing their being burthened with military
duty.
Be it enacted by this General Assembly, and by the au-
thority thereof it is enacted, that any person inhabiting with-
in this state, and of sober life and conversation, who can, and
shall frankly and freely take the affirmation hereinafter pre-
scribed, before the Governor, Deputy Governor, or either of
the assistants, or justices of the superior court, and produce
a certificate, thereof; or if one of the people called Quakers,
shall produce a certificate from the clerk of the monthly
meeting; to which he belongs, that he is a member of their
religious society, such certificate shall excuse such person
from all military duty, whatever.
The Form of the Affirmation.
" I, A. B., do sincerely affirm and declare, that the art of
war and fighting, and the use and exercise of arms, therein,
either offensively or defensively, is utterly inconsistent with
my belief, as a Christian ; and that I do not decline and re-
fuse the use, thereof, out of obstinacy, or singularity, but
for conscience sake. And this affirmation I make and give,
without evasion or mental reservation. "
And it is particularly recommended and enjoined on all
officers, empowered by this act to administer this affirmation,
that they be careful to make inquiry into the lives and con-
versation of such as apply to them, for the benefit of the
same ; and be satisfied that they are of sober lives and con-
versation, agreeably to the intent of this act, before he ad-
administer the same ; any law, custom or usage, to the con-
trary in any wise, notwithstanding.
1777.] AND PROVIDENCE PLANTATIONS. 123
Provided, nevertheless, that any thing before contained
in this act be not understood, or construed to extend, to ex-
cuse the persons taking- the affirmation, or producing the
certificates before mentioned, from appearing at the request
of any civil magistrate to extinguish fires, remove sick per-
sons, women and children, and from affording any kind of
assistance, of a charitable or merely civil nature, upon any
time of public calamity and distress.
And it is hereby farther enacted and declared, that the act
for relief of persons of tender consciences, made in the year
1743, and that paragraph in the act for regulating the mi-
litia, that requires certain duties of persons of tender con-
sciences, be, and the same are hereby, repealed.
And be it further enacted, that no person shall be excused
from any future military duty, by his having taken the af-
firmation, as by the law heretofore enacted.
An Act empowering the general treasurer to hire the sum
of £50,000, lawful money.
Be it enacted by this General Assembly, and by the au-
thority thereof it is enacted, that the general treasurer be,
and he is hereby, empowered and directed to hire the sum
of £50,000, lawful money ; that he issue his notes therefor ;
that not any note be issued for a less sum than $5 ; and
that said notes be made payable to , or order, within
five years from the date thereof with interest at four cent,
per annum, until paid.
And it is further enacted, that the form of the notes be
as follows :
Form of the Xotcs to be issued by the Treasurer.
a State of Rhode Island and )
Providence Plantations, j"
By virtue of an act of the General Assembly of said state,
and as general treasurer thereof, for value received, I prom-
ise to pay , or order, dollars, within five
years from this date, with interest at four per cent, per an-
1.000 "
" six "
1,000 «
" seven ''
1.000 -
" eight
1,000 «
u £en
1,000 «
" twenty k*
1,000 "
" thirty "
124 UECORDS OE THE STATE OF RHODE ISLAND [FeE:
num. until paid. Witness my hand, this -^ day of
, A. D. 1777."
And it is further enacted, that the number of notes here^
after mentioned, be of the following denominations, to wit :
1,000 notes, of five dollars - - - - $5,000
0,000
- 7.000
8,000
- 10,000
20,000
- 30,000
And that the remainder be given for such sums as may
suit the persons who take them.
And be it further enacted, that the said notes be printed
with the escutcheons and borders used in striking the last
bills of public credit ; that the general treasurer be, and he
is hereby., appointed to superintend the press ; and that he
keep a fair register of the order and manner Of signing said
notes, and to whom given.
And be it further enacted by the authority aforesaid, that
the notes, aforesaid, shall be a lawful tender, for paying and
discharging all debts and demands, whatever, in the same
manner as the lawful money bills of this state are made a
legal tender.
Whereas, a number of inhabitants of the town of West-
erly, preferred a petition to this Assembly, setting forth, that
for want of a proper guard to watch the shores upon the
sea-coast of said town, they are very much exposed to the
ravages of the enemy; and are almost daily alarmed by
their shipping passing and re-passing their sea-coast, in
si<jrht of said town, where it is easy for them to land their
men ; and thereupon prayed this Assembly to take their
case into consideration, and enact that a guard Or watch, of
such a number of men as may be thought sufficient, may be
appointed to watch the shores upon their sea-coast ; and
1777.] AND PROVIDENCE PLANTATIONS. 125
that this Assembly would appoint Capt. Samuel Champlin,
who lives near the shore, to have the care of said watch ; —
Whereupon, it is voted and resolved, that said petition
he, and the same is hereby, referred to the Honorable Major
General Spencer.
It is voted and resolved, that the schooner Betsey, where-
of Timothy Dagget is master, be permitted to sail for Bal-
timore, in Maryland, under the regulations and restrictions
with which vessels have been heretofore permitted to sail,
by the council of war.
It is voted and resolved, that all members of the General
Assembly, who are drawn in the second or third division of
the alarm-list of this state, be excused from doing duty in
said divisions at any time during a session of this Assem-
bly, and one day before the sitting thereof, and two days
after the rising of the same.
It is voted and resolved, that Immanuel Case, Esq., be,
and he is hereby, appointed the fifth justice of the inferior
court of common pleas, for Kings county ; and that the
other puisne justices, namely : John Northup, Carder Has-
zard and Joseph Hoxsie, be advanced ; Sylvester Robinson,
Esq., having vacated his seat.
It is voted and resolved, that John Weeden, who lately
came from the island of Jamestown, confine himself to such
parts of the town of Warwick as lie northward and west-
ward one mile and-a-half from the salt water ; and if he
shall transgress said limits, without permission first had and
obtained therefor from this Assembly ; or in their recess,
from the council of war ; that the several sheriffs and their
deputies, within this state, are hereby directed forthwith to
apprehend and commit him to the jail in the county in
which he may be apprehended ; and the secretary is direct-
ed immediately to transmit a copy hereof, to the said John
Weeden.
It is voted and resolved, that Benjamin Gardner, who
lately came from the island of Rhode Island, forthwith re-
move to the town of Exeter, and that he confine himself
126 RECORDS OF THE STATE OF RHODE ISLAND [FEB.
within said town ; and if he shall not, within three days after
the rising of this Assembly, proceed to said town of Exeter, or,
if he shall, after his arrival there, transgress the limits as-
signed him, without permission therefor, first had from this
Assembly ; or, in the recess thereof, from the council of war,
the sheriff, or their deputies within this state, are directed
forthwith to apprehend and commit him to the jail in the
county in which he may be apprehended.
And it is further resolved, that he remove to said town,
and continue within the same, at his own expense ; and the
secretary is directed to furnish the said Benjamin Gardner
with a copy hereof, as soon as may be.
It is voted and resolved, that the resolve of Congress, of
the 14th ult,, to prevent the depreciation of the Continental
currency, be published in the next Providence Gazette.
Both houses being resolved into a grand committee, chose
the following officers, to wit :
Officers in the two Continental Battalions to he raised in this /State.
FIRST BATTALION.
Samuel Ward, major.
John Topham, Elijah Lewis and Oliver Clarke, captains.
John Whitmarsh, Peleg Hoxsie, Elias Hull, James Webb.,
Ichabod Prentice, Edward Slocum and William Davis, Jr.,
first lieutenants.
Elias Blanchard, Elias Thompson, Jr., Samuel Northup,
Richmond Springer, William Gardner, Henry Tew, Jr.,
Jonathan Davis and Daniel Tillinghast, ensigns.
John Holden, Jr., adjutant.
SECOND BATTALION.
Israel Angell, Esq., colonel.
Jeremiah Olney, Esq., lieutenant colonel.
Simeon Thayer, Esq., major.
David Dexter, Christopher Dyer, Stephen Olney, William
Allen and William Potter, captains,
1777.] AND PROVIDENCE PLANTATIONS. 127
Thomas Hughes, Dutee Jerauld, Ebenezer West and
Thomas Waterman, first lieutenants.
N. B. Two of the vacancies for first lieutenants, are to
be filled by Sylvanus Shaw and William Humphrey, as soon
as it is known they are exchanged.
Oliver Jenckes and Benedict Tew, second lieutenants.
John Harris, Thomas Waterman and Jabez Arnold,
ensigns.
N. B. Two of the vacancies for ensigns, are to be filled
by Matthew Coggeshall and John Finch ; who are to be
chosen as soon as it is known they are exchanged.
John Remington, adjutant.
In grand committee, —
It is voted and resolved, that the earliest inquiry be made,
by application to His Excellency General Washington, to
know whether Colonel Greene will soon be exchanged ; and
if there is no probability thereof, —
It is further voted and resolved, that this Assembly, or, in
their recess, the council of war, will appoint Lieut. Col. Archi-
bald Crary, to command the first battalion of this state, for
the Continental service ; and the said Colonel Crary is re-
quested in the mean time, to give his utmost assistance, in
filling and disciplining said regiment.
Both houses being still in a grand committee, chose
the following officers, to wit :
A Delegate chosen to the Continenicd Congress, together with sundry
Civil and Military Officers for the State.
Henry Marchant, Esq., a delegate to represent this state
in the Honorable Continental Congress.
William Greene, Esq., chief; Shearjashub Bourn, Esq.,
second ; Jabez Bowen, Esq., third ; Thomas Wells, Esq.,
fourth ; Perez Richmond, Esq., fifth ; justices of the superior
court of assize and general jail delivery, within and through-
out the state.
John Park, captain ; and Gideon Hoxsie, Jr., lieutenant,
128 RECORDS OF THE STATE OF RHODE ISLAND [FEB.
of the first company of militia, in the town of Charles-
town.
Barber Peckham, first lieutenant, in Captain Royzel
Smith's company.
Samuel Bissell, first lieutenant, in Capt. Samuel Phillips's
company, in the room of Christopher Brown, who declines.
Job Clapp, second lieutenant ; and Christopher Phillips,
ensign, of said company.
Rufus Barton, first lieutenant, in Captain Benjamin
Church's company, in Colonel Tallman's regiment.
Edward Sands, surgeon of the regiment of artillery.
It is voted and resolved, that the post-riders in this state,
regularly appointed, be, and they are hereby, exempted
from military service, during their continuance in the duty
of post-riders.
It is voted and resolved, that William Potter and Daniel
Rodman, Esqs., be, and they are hereby, empowered to lease
out the real estates, heretofore taken possession of, by this
state, in Kings county, to such persons only as have sub-
scribed the test, or declaration, ordered to be subscribed by
the inhabitants of this state ; that they receive the rents
due for the said estates, from the tenants to whom they
were formerly leased, and pay the same to the committee of
safety, in Kings county, taking their receipts therefor, as so
much money received by their hands, of the general treasu-
rer ; and that they make report of their proceedings to this
Assembly, as soon as may be.
It is voted and resolved, that Stephen Babcock be cap-
tain of the second company of militia, in the town of South
Kingstown, in the room of James Parker, who is appointed
in one of the fifteen months' regiments ; and that Joseph
Carpenter be first lieutenant of said company, in the room
of Barber Peckham, who is appointed in one of the said
fifteen months' regiments.
It is voted and resolved, that all persons who have been
called upon to do duty in the first or second draught of the
militia and alarm-list, ordered to be made by this Assembly,
1777.] AND PROVIDENCE PLANTATIONS. 129
and were members of the Society of Friends, at the time of
their being draughted, as aforesaid, shall be excused from
any fine incurred by their neglecting said duty ; and if com-
mitted to jail for the non-payment thereof, they shall be
discharged from said confinement, upon their producing a
certificate thereof, from the clerk of the monthly meeting,
to the commanding officer within whose district he may
live ; any law to the contrary hereof, notwithstanding.
Whereas, the standing committee, for auditing accounts,
presented unto this Assembly an account of the names of
sundry persons in Colonel Stanton's regiment, who have re-
ceived their pay twice ; which is as follows, to wit :
Report of the Standing Committee relative to Sundry Soldiers who
had received their Pay Twice.
It appears, upon comparing the accounts of John Nor-
thup, Esq., with Colonel Joseph Stanton's, that the following
persons have received of said Stanton the sums against
their names, and afterwards their whole wages of said
Northup :
William Gardner, in Stanton's account
Marlborough Stanton, per receipt, July 29
" « « August 23
John Welch, per two receipts, August 9 and 24,
John Smith, " " " August 16 -
Peleg Lewis, two receipts, August 15 and 27
£21 7 6
The above persons were of Capt. Augustus Stanton's
company. NATHANIEL MUMFORD,
THOMAS GREENE,
GIDEON MUMFORD.
Whereupon, it is voted and resolved, that Thomas Arnold,
the present captain of said company, deduct the above
mentioned sums from the wages due to William Gardner,
■£6
12
0
3
04
0
3
00
6
2
19
0
1
10
0
■ 4
02
0
130 RECORDS OF THE STATE OF RHODE ISLAND [FEB.
Marlborough Stanton, John Welch, John Smith and Peleg
Lewis ; and that he pay said sums into the general treasury.
It is voted and resolved, that the director of the general
hospital in this state, and the hospital surgeon, be, and they
are hereby, empowered to make such appointments as are
necessary for the service, and respectively appertain to
them, or either of them, to appoint ; regulating their num-
bers according to the rules of the Continental army, and in
proportion to the number of troops for wdiich such hospital
shall be used ; that their mates respectively draw the same
pay and rations as are allowed and drawn by hospital mates
in the general hospitals of the Continental army.
That the director agree with all others necessary for the
service, upon the best terms he can, not exceeding the pay
and rations allowed those in similar stations in the Conti-
nental hospitals.
And it is further voted and resolved, that all officers and
soldiers in the service of this state, when in hospital, draw
their rations from the steward, according to the regulations
therefor.
It is voted and resolved, that the officers and soldiers in
the militia, alarm-list and independent companies, wTho may
be draughted to do duty writhin this state, agreeably to the
resolve of this Assembly, be not allowed any rations when
when absent from their duty on furlough, or when in the
hospital.
Whereas, it will be for the general good and particular
advantage of this state, to tax the inhabitants and ratable
estates therein, —
It is voted and resolved, that at the next session of this
Assembly a tax shall be made, for such a sum as it shall
then be judged the state can bear.
And that, for the more equitable apportioning the same,
upon the several towns, Thomas Church, Esq., Mr. John
Brown, George Pierce, James Arnold and Shearjashub
Bourn, Esqs., be, and they are hereby, appointed a commit-
tee to estimate their difference in value and ability, since
1777.] AND PROVIDENCE PLANTATIONS. 131
the last general estimate was taken ; and that said commit-
tee make their report to this Assembly on the third day of
the next session.
Protest against the Votes of the General Assembly, for Taxhuj the
Towns of Newport, Portsmouth, New Shorcham, Jamestown and
Middletown.
We, the subscribers, beg leave to protest against the vote of this house, for estimating
the towns of Newport, Portsmouth, New Shoreham, Jamestown and Middletown, upon
the tax proposed now to be levied upon the inhabitants of this state, for the following
reasons :
1. Because the said towns at present, are in the hands of our enemies, and it would
appear preposterous to apportion a tax on those towns, until there is a power to levy
the same.
2. Because, while they are in possession of the enemy, it is impossible to make any
satisfactory judgment of the value of the estates, or the capacity of the inhabitants to
pay such tax.
3. Nor can it be known what waste may be made before the enemy may be obliged
to surrender them.
4. Because taxation and representation ever ought to go hand in hand, an idea an
American ought never to depart from ; but at present some of those towns are entirety
without representation, and the others but partially represented.
5. Because it must answer every desirable end, that their true proportion of the
present tax, be hereafter apportioned upon them, when it may be in our power to levy
it; and that it may be speedily in our power, is our most ardent wish.
JOHN TANNER, JAMES CONGDON, 3d,
BENJAMIN UNDERWOOD, IMMANUEL CASE.
It is voted and resolved, that Mr. John Jenckes be re
quested to have the small arms brought from Bedford, be-
longing to this state, cleaned and repaired.
It is voted and resolved, that Messrs. Jacob Greene and
David Howell, be, and they are hereby, appointed forthwith
to proceed to Baltimore, in Maryland, with the accounts of
this state against the Continent ; and that they present the
same, and apply to Congress for the balance due to this
state.
Whereas, Jonathan Haszard, Esq., paymaster to one of the
battalions ordered to be raised within this state, is now in
the Jerseys, —
It is therefore voted and resolved, that Charles Holden,
Esq., be, and he is hereby, appointed to officiate as paymas-
132 RECORDS OF THE COLONY OF RHODE ISLAND [FEB.
ter to said battalion, until the return of the said Jonathan
Haszard.
Whereas, Messrs. Christopher Whipple and John Therlo
preferred a petition to this Assembly, setting forth, that on
the 26th day of January last, being bound from Turks
Island to the port of Providence, with a cargo of salt, lead,
iron, cotton-wool, &c, they were steering for the harbor of New-
port, not knowing the enemy were in possession thereof, until
they discovered their shipping; that they sent a boat on shore
to make inquiry, and being informed that they were part of
the enemy's fleet, they put the vessel about, and steered for
the Eastern Sound, being pursued by two of the enemy's
ships ; that in order to escape them, they again put about, and
steered for the Western Sound ; when they presently dis-
covered eleven sail of the enemy's fleet coming down the
Sound, standing for Newport, who fired upon them ; that
being still pursued by the two vessels, aforesaid, they were
reduced to the necessity of running the vessel aground, on
Point Judith shore ; that in order to save their effects from
falling into the hands of the enemy, they cut away their
mast, and got the sails and some of her rigging ashore, with
two bags of cotton-wool, and a number of other articles,
when the enemy getting possession of the vessel, set her on
fire about seven o'clock, in the evening, and immediately
left her ; upon which, the said John Therlo, with some as-
sistance, extinguished the fire about two o'clock, the same
night, and went about getting the salt on shore, a quantity
of which was saved ; as was also a quantity of the iron,
cotton-wool, part of rum, a cask of porter, and a number of
of other articles, which are now in the hands of Stephen
Potter, of South Kingstown, and other persons, who un-
justly detain the same from them ; and thereupon prayed
this Assembly to appoint a suitable committee to make ex-
amination respecting the premises, with power to act and
determine thereon, as to right and justice shall pertain ; and
the premises being duly considered, —
It is voted and resolved, that the prayer of said petition
1777.] AND PROVIDENCE PLANTATIONS. 133
be, and the same is hereby, granted ; and that John Nor-
tlmp, Esq., Mr. Robert Stevens, Jr. and Col. Richard Fry, be
the committee for the purposes therein mentioned.
It is voted and resolved, that John Northup, Esq., as one
of the committee of safety, be, and he is hereby, empow-
ered to draw £1,000, lawful money, out of the general
treasury.
It is voted and resolved, that Mr. James Congdon, 3d, one
of the committee of safety, be, and he is hereby, empowered
to draw £1,000, lawful money, out of the general treasury.
It is voted and resolved, that one nine-pound cannon,
with a field-carriage and the necessary stores for the same,
be allowed to the town of Charlestown.
It is voted and resolved, that the price of refined iron be
not more than fifty shillings per hundred ; and for bog or
brittle iron, not more than thirty-nine shillings, per hun-
dred ; and that the price of single refined loaf sugar, by the
hundred, shall not exceed one shilling and sixpence, per
pound ; and by the single loaf, one shilling and eightpence
per pound.
It is voted and resolved, that twelve shillings per day be
allowed to each of the standing committee, in full for all
their services, and all expenses.
Whereas, the committee, who were appointed to draught
a letter to His Excellency General Washington, laid the
same before this Assembly ; which being duly consid-
ered,—
It is voted and resolved, that the same be, and hereby is,
approved ; and that a fair copy thereof be made, and for-
warded to His Excellency, as soon as may be.
Whereas, the same committee, who were also appointed
to prepare the draught of a letter to the Honorable General
Greene, laid the same before this Assembly ; which being
duly considered, —
It is voted and resolved, that it be, and hereby is, ap-
proved of; that a fair copy thereof be made out and for-
134 RECORDS OF THE STATE OF RHODE ISLAND [FEB.
Warded, as soon as may be, to the Honorable General
Greene.
It is voted and resolved, that Mr. Stephen Mumford, as
one of the committee of safety, be, and he is hereby, em-
powered to draw £2,000, lawful money, out of the general
treasury.
It is voted and resolved, that the sloop Florida, whereof
Oliver Gardner is master, be permitted to proceed to His-
paniola, under the regulations and restrictions which vessels
have been heretofore permitted to sail by the council of
war.
An Act in addition to an act, passed the last session of As-
sembly, for preventing monopolies and oppression.
Be it enacted by this General Assembly, and by the au-
thority thereof it is hereby enacted, that each and every town
within this state, where European or East India goods are
sold, either by wholesale or retail, be, and they are hereby,
empowered and directed to call a town meeting, to appoint
a committee, consisting of three judicious persons, who have
been used to the European trade, either two of whom to be
a quorum, whose business it shall be, on application, to ad-
judge and determine whether such goods are sold at a
higher price than by said act is allowed ; and if the said
committee shall adjudge that said articles were sold con-
trary to the true intent and meaning of said act, they shall
give a certificate thereof, to the person who applies for the
same, paying to said committee three shillings, therefor ;
whereupon, the person having such certificate, shall prose-
cute the seller of said articles, as by said act is directed ;
and if he shall be convicted, the three shillings, aforesaid,
shall be taxed in the bill of cost against the offender.
And be it further enacted, that the seller of such goods by
wholesale, shall make out an invoice, thereof, at the sterling
cost of the articles sold, with his advance thereon, and de-
liver the same to the buyer, under the penalty of the sum
1777.] AND PROVIDENCE PLANTATIONS. 135
at which said articles are sold ; and the retailer shall also, if
requested by the buyer, make out and give an invoice of
the goods, with the sterling cost, and the advance.
Provided, nevertheless, that if said goods have not been
imported directly from Europe, but from the West Indies, or
any other port or place, not being in Europe, that then the
wholesale dealer shall be excused from making out an in-
voice for the sterling cost ; but shall give an invoice with
the cost at the port or place where they were purchased ;
and the said committee shall adjudge and determine the
sterling cost, if any dispute ariseth thereon.
It is voted and resolved, that the captains or other offi-
cers, commanding companies, in the service of this state, in
future, upon exhibiting the abstracts for their respective
companies, to their colonel or other field-officer, to be cer-
tified, shall before such field officer make solemn oath, that
the state of said companies, and all charges and returns
therein contained, are just and true.
And the several field-officers within this state are hereby
empowered and required to administer such oath, before
any abstract be certified ; and that such oath having been
made, as aforesaid, be by them mentioned in their cer-
tificates.
Whereas, Mr. Peter Randall preferred a petition, and rep-
resented unto this Assembly, that his son Joseph Randall
hath been draughted as a soldier ; that notwithstanding his
alleging that his state of body, being bursten, he appre-
hended would not admit of his serving as a soldier, were his
principles such as would suffer him to act, he had his pro-
perty distrained from him, and sold at vendue, for £4 2s.,
lawful money ; that his person hath since been committed
to prison, where he now remains ; and that in order to
evince that the practice of war is against his religious prin-
ciples, he is ready to take the affirmation, lately passed by
this Assembly ; and thereupon prayed this Assembly to
take his singular case in consideration, and grant him a
136 RECORDS OF THE STATE OF RHODE ISLAND [Feb.
release from prison ; and the premises being duly con-
sidered,—
It is voted and resolved, that the prayer of said petition
be, and the same hereby, is granted.
Whereas, Mr. Nicholas Tillinghast is at this time at
Boston, —
It is therefore voted and resolved, that the sheriff for the
county of Providence, immediately on his return, apprehend
and carry him before the council of war, who are requested
to make such order respecting him, as to them shall seem
right, and most for the safety of the state.
It is voted and resolved, that Mr. George Irish be re-
moved to the town of Warwick ; and that he confine him-
self within the same limits, and under the same restrictions,
as John Weeclen hath been confined, by a resolve of this
Assembly.
Whereas, it hath been represented unto this Assembly,
that Elisha Sisson, a j3erson suspected of being inimical to
the United States, hath enlisted into one of the regiments
from the state of Connecticut, —
It is therefore voted and resolved, that the Honorable
General Spencer be made acquainted therewith ; and that
he make such order respecting him, as may be most for the
safety of this state.
Whereas, a number of prisoners have arrived in the town
of Providence, in the cartel vessel from Newport ; and as
as they belong to, and are subjects of the United States, and
live in different governments, and are entirely destitute of
money and other necessaries, this Assembly think that it is
absolutely necessary, from a motive of compassion, that
some provision be made, in order to enable them to pro-
ceed to their respective homes, families and friends ; where-
fore—
Resolved, that Thomas Wells, Esq., be, and he is hereby,
appointed to make inquiry into the circumstances attending
each person, and make an estimate what sum of money will
1777.] AND PROVIDENCE PLANTATIONS. 137
be absolutely necessary for their subsistence, until the)- can
get to their several homes ; making allowance for the
charitable reception they may receive upon the roads ; and
make immediate report, thereof, in order that said sums
may be paid out of the general treasury, to be distributed
among them.
It is voted and resolved, that this General Assembly con-
sider the present draught of independent companies, alarm
companies and companies of militia, as doing duty upon an
alarm, in every respect.
It is voted and resolved, that the Continental agent be,
and he is hereby, requested to advance to the prisoners
lately arrived in the cartel from Newport, the sum of $50,
in such proportion as their distance from home, and other
circumstances, may appear to require ; and that they be re-
commended to the states through which they may pass.
Bills Ordered to he Paid.
£ s. d.
John Carter, for his bill for printing rules and regulations of tile army, and
acts and resolves of the General Assembly, &c 34 06 08
Pardon Tillinghast, for his time and expenses, in the service of the General
Assembly 8 04 00
Thomas Tillinghast, for his services as one of the committee appointed to in-
quire into and estimate the damages done by the soldiers on the islands
of Rhode Island and Conanicut 12 07 02
Joseph Bucklin, Jr., for his time and expenses in going to, and returning
from Baltimore 40 19 10
Ambrose Page, for four barrels of fine Dutch pistol powder, for the use of the
laboratory, by order of the Governor 78 18 06
William Dyer, Jr., for his time and expenses, in going to Providence, by or-
der of Daniel Rodman 1 12 00
Nicholas Cooke, for cash paid on account of the public service ; for a quantity
of bread and flour delivered Commissary Aborn, &c 133 13 02
John Child, for the hire of his cart and horse, for the use of the artillery
company, in the town of Warren , 1 19 00
William Tefft, for his time and expenses in going express from the South
Ferry to Providence, by order of Major Thomas Potter 1 15 06
David Wilkinson, for superintending the press, while printing an emission of
the lawful money bills 3 06 00
Stephen Leach, for his time and expenses in going express to Gov. Trum-
bull, of Connecticut, on public business, by order of the Governor 3 02 06
Thomas Allin, for cleaning and mending thirty-seven smaU arms, fixing bay-
onets, and making ramrods for the same 10 02 02
VOL. VIII. 18
138 RECORDS OP THE STATE OF RHODE ISLAND [FEB.
Israel Sayles, for work by him done on the works at Bristol Ferry, and for a
jack plane, lost in the service 18 00
John Child, for duck by him furnished for an awning- for the ammunition-
cart, belonging to the artillery company, in the town of Warren 3 08 00
Josias Lyndon, for his expenses, in attending on the General Assembly, at
the second session in December, A. D. 1770, as clerk of the lower house 2 18 00
William Channing, for his expenses, as assistant clerk of the lower house, at
second session in December, A. D. 1776 2 19 00
Beriah Brown, for notifying the members of the General Assembly to meet
at two sessions in East Greenwich ; and to meet in general committee,
at Providence G 19 00
Beriah Waite, for going express to carry the acts of the General Assembly,
to the respective town clerks and commanders of independent companies
in Kings county 2 00 00
Col. Knight Dexter, for going express to Gen. Washington, by order of the
Governor 2 1101
James Congdon, for his time and expenses in going to Xew London, on pub-
lic business 1 16 00
Rouse J. Helme, for thirty-four days' attendance, as clerk of the council of
war 20 08 00
Col. John Cooke, for the balance of his account against the state, as one of
the committee of safety 479 02 07
Benjamin Lamed, for billeting forty-one men, belonging to Col. Slack's com-
pany of light horse, and keeping their horses, when on duty in the late
alarm, in December last 123 00 00
Stephen Mumford, for balance of account due him from the state, as one of
the committee of safety 95 01 04
Pardon Gray, for balance of his account against the state, as commissary of
the troops stationed at Tiverton and Little Compton 1,289 12 5£
Martin Seamans, for searching a brig, &c, by order of the Governor 16 10 01
Benjamin Stelle, for cash paid by him, for sundry stores, for the use of the
cartel sloop, which went to Block Island, to exchange prisoners, and
for his wages as adjutant, &c 13 15 00
Ambrose Page, for the loss upon an anchor purchased for the Washington
row-galley 3 05 09
Daniel Tillinghast, for balance of his account against the state, as one of the
committee of safety 204 19 10
Cromel Child, for materials, labor and sundry other expenses upon the flat-
bottomed boats, for the use of the state 191 19 Li
Noah Smith, for his time and expenses in carrying the acts of the Generat As-
sembly to the counties of Kent and Kings 1 16 00
Joshua Burr, for his time and expenses in carrying the acts of the Assem-
bly to the several town clerks and colonels of militia, in the county of
Providence 2 08 00
(iideon Mumford, for his service in settling sundry accounts, at East Green-
wich, &c ' 21 00 00
Thomas Greene, for expenses and services as one of the committee of audit,
jn settling sundry accounts 18 09 00
Nathaniel Mumford, one of the standing committee, for his time and ex-
penses in settling sundry accounts 19 06 02
Col. Joseph Stanton, Jr., one of the standing committee, for balance of his
account against the state 835 13 06
1/ M.J
AND PROVIDENCE PLANTATIONS. L39
fames Congdon, :>d, one of the committee of safety, for the balance of his ac-
count against the state 4s 1 1 ;:,',
John Collins, for a flat-bottomed boat, by him procured to be built in the
town of Newport, for the use of the state 24 00 (HI
•Joseph Lawrence, for boarding two officers of Col. llohnaifs regiment, sta-
tioned in the town of Providence 11 15 no
Joseph Lawrence, for boarding Ebenezer Waters, quartermaster of the regi-
ment from the state of -Massachusetts Bay, stationed in the town of
Pro violence ■"> 08 04
Benjamin Lindsey, for a blanket, by him furnished, by order of the town
council of Providence, to a soldier in Jonathan Russel's company, who
was unable to furnish himself lb 00
■James Arnold, Jr., for boarding and nursing two sick prisoners brought from
Newport, and landed at Pawtuxet ; for washing, &c, for five other sick
prisoners 5 00 00
William Potter, for paying sundry laborers' bills, for work done on the court
house, in Kings county 21 02 01
God save the United States of America.
Gen. Washington io the Governor of Rhode Islcmd.
Headquarters, Morristown, j
Gth February, 1777. \
Sir : — As the arrival of a sufficient quantity of small arms from Europe, in time to
arm the Continental troops, is a matter of great uncertainty, proper steps should beinv
mediately taken in your state to collect all that can be purchased from private people.
The custom of hiring them for the campaign, is attended witli many bad conse-
quences ; the owners take little care of them, and carry them away and sell or change
them, as they please.
Particular attention should be paid to the quality of the firelock ; no light trash arms
should, on any account, be received in the public stores, if they are not substantial,
both in lock and barrel, they should be thrown upon the hands of the commissary
who purchased them. I have the honor to be, sir,
Your most obedient servant,
GEO. WASHINGTON.
To the Honorable Governor Cooke.
The Governor of Rhode Island to Gen. Greene.
, February 7, 1777.
Sir :— Yours of the 28d ult., has been received, and laid before the General Assem-
bly, and they regret their not advising Gen. Washington at the time they did the Gen-
eral Congress, of the reasons and motives which urged them to a measure which
(we hope through wrong information,) His Excellency holds in an unfavorable light,
and which has drawn upon them your severest censure.
However, as they are conscious of the rectitude of their intentions, they are prepared
to sustain the weight of hasty and unmerited reproofs ; and able, notwithstanding
the perplexed state of affairs, to give sufficient reasons for the measures they have
adopted.
In order that you may yet be undeceived, they will state the motives of their couduct,
and from which they think it justified. You are not unacquainted with the power-
140 RECORDS OF THE STATE OF RHODE ISLAND [FeB.
ful armament that invaded this little state (not less than seven thousand land forces,
and a number of ships of force and many transports) ; you know the extensive coast,
which, at such a time, it was necessary should be defended: and on many parts of
which, they could have thrown their whole force in a very few hours ; unprovided as
we were, we did every thing in our power for defence ; every man able to bear arms,
was called out to duty, and every precaution taken which the nature and circumstances
of things would permit. They were sensible of the impracticability of keeping militia
(drawn suddenly from their homes at so rigid a season, for such a length of time as
necessity might require), embodied, and in the field; the distressed situation of the
Continental army and the impossibility of obtaining relief from them ; these were con-
siderations not a little embarrassing to those who had all the horrors of war, and the
prospect of instant destruction, before them, and will account for the subsequent pro-
ceedings, without recurring to a regular systematic design of introducing innovations,
or making separate defence. (Take the proceedings as stated in letter to Gen. Wash-
ington, then proceed.)
You may be assured that the subjects of this state have the highest veneration for
the inestimable General Washington, and a becoming respect for the brave and worthy
generals and commanders under him, and cannot conceive on what the suggestion
contained in your letter concerning him, are founded, and request you will give us the
authors of such infamous insinuation, that a proper inquiry may be had, and condign
punishment inflicted upon such base calumniators.
Hoping that time, patience and a dispassionate inquiry will set things in their true
light, they congratulate and rejoice with you on the late almost unhoped success of
the American arms, in which the interposition of Divine Providence very legibly ap-
peared ; they fervently wish the same to continue until the enemies of America are
confounded and exterminated from her shores ; her inhabitants restored to peace in
liberty and safety, and her brave and worthy generals return to their families and
friends, crowned with glory, and surrounded with the blessings of Heaven, and of
freemen. In a becoming confidence that these wishes will be granted in due time, they
will continue cheerfully to contribute every thing in their power in support of every
measure calculated to effect that desirable issue.
I am, &c, NICHOLAS COOKE.
To General Greene.
The Governor of Rhode Island to Gen. Washington.
Providence, February 9, 1777.
Sir : — I have been favored with Your Excellency's letters of the 20th and 24th ult.,
and have laid them before the General Assembly. The enemy having landed not less
than seven thousand troops upon Rhode Island, and being possessed of the bay, with a
large fleet, laid us under the necessity of establishing a body of forces with all possible
expedition.
In this situation, when it was impracticable to fill the Continental battalions, the As-
sembly set on foot two regiments of seven hundred and fifty men, each ; and one regi-
ment of artillery, of three hundred men, to serve for fifteen months. The following is
the form of the enlistment of the non-commissioned officers and privates :
" I, the subscriber, do hereby solemnly engage and enlist myself as a soldier in the
pay of the state of Rhode Island and Providence Plantations, for the preservation of the
liberties of America, and the defence of the United States in general, and of this state
in particular, from the day of my enlistment, for and during the term of fifteen months,
unless sooner discharged by the General Assembly ; 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 time to time, from my officers."
1777.]
AND PROVIDENCE PLANTATIONS. 141
And the following is the clause in the commission issued to the officers :
" And in f>ase of an invasion or assault of a common enemy to infest or disturb this,
or any oilier of the said states, you are to alarm and gather together the under
your command, or any part, thereof, as you shall deem sufficient; and therewith to
the utmost of your skill and ability, you are to resist, expel, kill and destroy them, in
order to preserve the lives, liberties and properties of the good people of this, and the
other United States."
Consequently, those regiments are as much held and designed to do duty in every
part of the United States as the Continental battalions ; and to render them effectually
so, they are by act of government put under the command of General Spencer, and the
other generals of the Continental army. And when Congress shall have ordered them
into their service, there will be no other difference between them, than that the former
are enlisted for fifteen months, and the latter for three years, or during the war.
Early information of the footing upon which these troops are raised, was given to
our delegate in Congress, who tells us in a letter of the 7th ultimo, that he had laid
the same before the Congress, and that the measures we had taken gave him great satis-
faction ; and I am extremely sorry it had not been also immediately transmitted to Your
Excellency, as I am persuaded, in that case, you would have entertained a very dif-
ferent opinion of this measure, and been convinced that it was adopted from necessity
alone ; and not with the most distant idea of our making a local or separate defence, or
of obstructing the enlistments into the Continental battalions.
It is true, that it hath had a tendency in some degree, to cause such obstruction, which
was very early obviated by an order permitting enlistments from those troops into the
Continental battalions. In consequence of which, Captain Thayer has, in a short time,
enlisted forty men out of one of those regiments.
I will now inform Your Excellency of the measures taken by this state to fill up the
two Continental battalions assigned by Congress as our quota of the eighty-eight bat-
talions first ordered to be raised.
We have filled up the greater part of the vacancies in them, and enclose you a list
of the officers appointed, who are directed to exert themselves in recruiting. We have
also given a bounty of £16, in addition to the encouragement given by Congress ; and
engaged to furnish each man, in behalf of the Continent, with arms, accoutrements, a
blanket and knapsack.
The Assembly will make a short adjournment to try the effect of this great encour-
agement ; and in case these measures fail of the hoped-for success, will make still
greater efforts to fill those battalions.
lam to request you to give me information whether there he probability of Col.
Greene's being soon exchanged ; as the Assembly have left a vacancy for him in that
case, and have determined to appoint Col. Crarey to the command of that regiment, if
that event be not likely soon to take place.
I am, with great esteem and respect, sir,
Your Excellency's most obedient, humble servant,
NICHOLAS COOKE.
To His Excellency General "\Yashington.
P. S. Agreeably to Your Excellency's recommendation, I have sent to Newport all
the prisoners in the land service, that were in the care of this state, and enclose you
one of Lord Percy's receipts for them.
14 '2 RECORDS OF THE STATE OF RHODE ISLAND [MARCH
The Governor of Rhode Island to Gen. Washington,
Providence, February 18, 1777.
Sir : — Since ray last, I have been favored with yours of the 81st ult., and the 2d and
the 6th instant.
The letter respecting deserters shall be laid before the General Assembly at the next
session, on the fifth Monday in March, who, I doubt not, wiU take the most proper
measures to discourage desertion.
My last to you, will explain the motives by which the General General Assembly
were governed, in ordering the brigade to be raised for fifteen months, and the plan
upon which they are enlisted. 1 shall only add to it, that they receive the same pay
as the Continental troops ; and that the bounty given them, is much less.
The state hath heen greatly exhausted of arms by our former exertions ; and the
enemy having effectually blocked up our ports, it hath not heen in our power to im-
port any. How far we shall be able to supply the Continental battalions raising here,
I am not able to say ; but this I can assure Your Excellency, that nothing shall be
wanting on our part, to furnish them.
I am, with great truth and esteem,
Your Excellency's most obedient, humble servant,
NICHOLAS COOKE.
Ta His Excellence General Washington,
■Proceedings of the General Assembly, held for the State of Rhode
Island and Providence Plantations, id Providence, on the first
Monday in March, 1777.
The Hon. Nicholas Cooke, Governor.
The Hon. William Bradford, Deputy Governor.
Whereas, a quantity of flour, lately arrived from Philadel-
phia, hath heen seized b}^ a warrant, from Gen. Varnum, for
the use of the troops within this state ; and whereas, it hath
been represented to this Assembly, that the said flour, or a
great part of it, is the property of persons now on Rhode
Island, who are suspected of being inimical to the United
States-
It is therefore voted and resolved, that it be recommend-
ed to Mr. Pardon Gray, deputy commissary, that he do not
pay for said flour, until this Assembly can obtain further
information respecting the same.
1777.] AND PROVIDENCE PLANTATIONS. 143
It is voted and resolved, that Theodore Foster, Caleb
Harris and Daniel Rodman, Esqs., be, and they are hereby,
appointed a committee, to revise the acts for preventing the
desertion of soldiers who may enlist in any regiments or-
dered to be raised by this state ; and that they draft an act
for punishing any person/who, after having enlisted into any
regiment within this state, shall, contrary to law, again en-
list into the same, or any other regiment, and receive a
second bounty.
Whereas, Jacob Parker, Jr., a soldier in one of the regi-
ments ordered to be raised within this state, re-enlist 3d in
one of the said regiments, and received a second bounty ;
and the said Jacob hath since deserted and enlisted in of
the Connecticut battalions, in the state of Connecticut. —
It is therefore voted and resolved, that Captain Benjamin
West forthwith proceed to Connecticut, and take with him
the said Jacob's enlistments within this state ; that he apply
to the officers who enlisted him in the said state of Connec-
ticut,, and acquaint him with his previous enlistments, and
request his discharge ; that he pay any moneys that ma}-
have been advanced as a bounty to the said Jacob, if he be
discharged, which shall be deducted from his wages, or
otherwise that he request payment of the money advanced
him by this state ; and that if the said Jacob be discharged,
the said Benjamin be directed to bring him within this
state, and commit him to jail, that he may be dealt with ac-
cording to law.
Wnereas, Mr. John Larkin hath represented unto this As-
sembly, that he apprehended one Jacob Parker, Jr., who
had received two bounties, and had deserted from one of the
regiments ordered to be raised by this state ; that being un-
able to commit him to jail at the time he apprehended him,
he released him, upon the said Parker's delivering him a
horse as security for his appearance within a limited time ;
and that although said time had elapsed, said Parker hath
not surrendered himself to the said John Larkin ; —
It is therefore voted and resolved, that the said John Lar-
144 RECORDS OF THE STATE OF RHODE ISLAND [MARCH
kin dispose of the said horse at public vendue, unless any
person other than said Parker should appear before the sale,
and prove his property in said horse ; that he notify the sale
three weeks in the Providence Gazette ; and that if he dis-
pose of said horse, he pay the money arising from the sale
thereof (after deducting the charges), into the general
treasury.
It is voted and resolved, that Mr. John Smith furnish
Captain Josiah Gibbs with six guns, bayonets and cartouch-
boxes, six blankets and six knapsacks, for the use of the
soldiers in his company.
It is voted and resolved, that the committee of safety
within this state be, and they are hereby, directed to pay
the wages of the oificers in the regiment lately under the
command of Colonel Lippitt, from the 26th day of August,
to the 1st of September, A. D. 1776, being five days ; Col.
Lippitt having assured this house that the same hath not
been paid them by any Continental officer.
This Assembly taking into consideration the following
declaration of independence of the thirteen United States of
America, made on the 4th of July last, and resolution of
Congress passed on the 18th of January last, —
Do vote and resolve, and it is voted and resolved, that
the same be entered on the public records of this state.
DECLARATION OF INDEPENDENCE OF THE
UNITED STATES OF AMERICA.
In Congress, July 4, 1770.
THE UNANIMOUS DECLARATION OF THE THIRTEEN UNITED STATES OF AMERICA.
When, in the course of human events, it becomes necessary for one x^'ople to dis-
solve the political bands which have connected them with another, and to assume,
among the powers of the earth, the separate and equal station to which the laws o ma-
ture and of nature's God entitle them, a decent respect to the opinions of mankind
requires that they should declare the causes which impel them to the separation.
We hold these truths to be self-evident, that all men are created equal ; that they
are endowed, by their Creator, with certain unalienable rights ; that among these, are
life, liberty, and the pursuit of happiness ; that to secure these rights, governments are
instituted among men, deriving their just powers from the cousent of the governed ;
that whenever any form of government becomes destructive of these ends, it is the
1777.]
AND PKOWDEXCi; PLANTATIONS; 145
right of the people to alter or to abolish it, and to institute a new government, laying its
foundation on such principles, and organizing its powers in such form, as to them shall
seem most likely to effect their safety and happiness. Prudence, indeed, will dictate,
that governments long established, should not be changed for light and transient
causes ; and accordingly, all experience hath shown, that mankind are more disposed
to suffer, while evils are sufferable, than to right themselves, by abolishing the forms
<i> which they are accustomed. Hut when a long train of abuses and usurpations, pur-
suing invariably the same object, evinces a design to reduce them under absolute des-
potism, it is their right, it is their duty, to throw off such government, and to provide
new guards for their future security. Such has been the patient sufferance of these
colonies ; and such is now the necessity which constrains them to alter their former
systems of government. The history of the present King of Great Britain, is a history
of repeated injuries and usurpations, all having in direct object the establishment of
an absolute tyranny over these statas. To prove this, let facts be submitted to a candid
world :
He has refused his assent to laws, the most wholesome and necessary for the public
good;
He has forbidden his governors to pass laws of immediate and pressing importance,
unless suspended in their operation till his assent should be obtained ; and when so
suspended, he has utterly neglected to attend to them.
He has refused to pass other laws for the accommodation of large districts of people,
unless those people would relinquish the right of representation in the legislature ; a
right inestimable to them, and formidable to tyrants only.
He has called together legislative bodies at places unusual, uncomfortable, and dis-
tant from the depository of their public records, for the sole purpose of fatiguing them
into compliance with his measures.
He has dissolved representative houses repeatedly, for opposing with manly firmness
his invasions on the rights of the people.
He has refused, for a long time after such dissolutions, to cause others to be elected ;
whereby the legislative powers, incapable of annihilation, have returned to the people
at large for their exercise ; the state remaining, in the mean time, exposed to all the
dangers of invasions from without, and convulsions within.
He has endeavored to prevent the population of these states ; for that purposes, ob-
structing the laws for naturalization of foreigners ; refusing to pass others to encourage
their migration hither, and raising the conditions of new appropriations of lands.
He has obstructed the administration of justice, by refusing his assent to laws for es
tablishing judiciary powers.
He has made judges dependent on his will alone, for the tenure of their offices, and
the amount and payment of their salaries.
He has erected a multitude of new offices, and sent hither swarms of officers to ha-
rass our people, and eat out their substance;
He has kept among us, in times of peace, standing armies, without the consent of
our legislatures.
He has affected to render the military independent of, and superior to, the civil
power.
He has combined, with others, to subject us to a jurisdiction foreign to our constitu
tion, and unacknowledged by our laws ; giving his assent to their acts of pretended
legislation :
For quartering large bodies of armed troops among lis :
For protecting them, by a mock trial, from punishment, for any murders which they
should commit on the inhabitants of these states :
For cutting off our trade with all parts of the world :
For imposing taxes on us, without our consent :
voi>. vm. 19
146 RECORDS OF THE STATE OF RHODE ISLAND [MaRCH;
For depriving us, in many cases, of the benefits of trial by jury :
For transporting us beyond seas, to be tried for pretended offences.
For abolishing the free system of English laws, in a neighboring province ; estab-
lishing therein an arbitrary government, and enlarging its boundaries, so as to render
it at once an example and fit instrument for introducing the same absolute rule into
these colonies :
For taking away our charters, abolishing our most valuable laws, and altering fun-
damentally the forms of our governments :
For suspending our own legislatures, and declaring themselves invested with power
to legislate for us in all cases, whatsoever.
He has abdicated government here, by declaring us out of his protection, and waging
war against us.
He has plundered our seas, ravaged our coasts, burnt our towns, and destroyed the
lives of our people.
He is, at this time, transporting large armies of foreign mercenaries, to complete the
works of death, desolation and tyranny, already began, with circumstances of cruelty
and perfidy scarcely paralleled in the most barbarous ages, and totally unworthy the
head of a civilized nation.
He has constrained our fellow citizens, taken captive on the high seas, to bear arms
against their country, to become the executioners of their friends and brethren, or to
fall themselves by their hands.
He has excited domestic insurrections amongst us, and has endeavored to bring on
the inhabitants of our frontiers, the merciless Indian savages, whose known rule of
warfare is an undistinguished destruction of all ages, sexes and conditions.
In every stage of these oppressions, we have petitioned for redress in the most humble
terms ; our repeated petitions have been answered only by repeated injury. A princp»
whose character is thus marked by every act which may define a tyrant, is unfit to be
the ruler of a free people.
Nor have we been wanting in attentions to our British brethren. We have warned
them, from time to time, of attempts by their legislature to extend an unwarrantable
jurisdiction over us. "We have reminded them of the circumstances of our emigra-
tion and settlement here. We have appealed to their native justice and magnanimity,
and we have conjured them, by the ties of our common kindred, to disavow these
usurpations, which would inevitably interrupt our connections and correspondence.
They, too, have been deaf to the voice of justice and of consanguinity. We must, there"
fore, acquiesce in the necessity which denounces our separation, and hold them, as we
hold the rest of mankind, enemies in war, in peace, friends.
We, therefore, the representatives of the United States of America, in General Con-
gress assembled, appealing to the Supreme Judge of the world for the rectitude of our
intentions, do, in the name and by the authority of the good people of these colonies,
solemnly publish and declare, that these United Colonies are, and of right ought to be,
free and independent states ; that they are absolved from all allegiance to the British
crown ; and that all political connection between them, and the state of Great Britain,
is, and ought to be, totally dissolved ; and that, as free and independent states, they
have full power to levy war, conclude peace, contract alliances, establish commerce, and
to do all other acts and things which independent states may of right do. And for the
support of this declaration, with a firm reliance on the protection of Divine Provi-
dence, we mutually pledge to each other our lives, our fortunes, and our sacred honor.
JOHN HANCOCK.
Georgia — Button Gwinnett, Lyman Hall, George Walton.
Nortli Carolina — William Hooper, Joseph Hewes, John Penn.
South Carolina— Edward Rutledge, Thomas Heyward, Jr., Thomas Lynch, Jr.,
Arthur Middleton.
1777.] AND PROVIDENCE PLANTATIONS. 147
Maryland— Samuel Chase, William Paca, Thomas Stone, Charles Carroll, of
Carrollton.
Virginia— George Wythe/Eichard Henry Lee, Thomas Jefferson, Benjamin Hani
son, Thomas Nelson, Jr., Francis Lightfoot Lee, Carter Braxton.
Pennsylvania — Robert Morris, Benjamin Rush, Benjamin Franklin, John Morton
George Clymer, James Smith, George Taylor, James Wilson, George Ross.
Delaware — Caesar Rodney, George Read.
New York — William Floyd, Philip Livingston, Francis Lewis, Lewis Morris.
New Jersey — Richard Stockton, John Witherspoon, Francis Hopkinson, John Hart,
Abraham Clark.
New Hampshire — Josiah Bartlctt, William Whipple, Matthew Thornton.
Massachusetts Bay — Samuel Adams, John Adams, Robert Treat Paine, Elbridge
Gerry.
Rhode Island, &c. — Stephen Hopkins, William Ellery.
Connecticut — Roger Sherman, Samuel Huntington, William Williams, Oliver
Wolcott.
In Congress, January 18, 1777.
Ordered, that an authenticated copy of the Declaration of Independence, with the
names of the members of Congress, subscribing the same, be sent to each of the United
States ; and that they be desired to have same put on record.
By order of Congress, JOHN HANCOCK, President.
Attest: CHARLES THOMPSON, Secr'y.
A true copy: JOHN HANCOCK, President.
It is voted and resolved, that Messrs. John Brown and
Henry Ward, be, and they are hereby, appointed a committee
to layout a sum not exceeding £50, lawful money, in a pre-
sent to the Oneida Indians, who were before this Assembly
this morning.
It is voted and resolved, that Mr. John Smith, as one
of the committee of safety, be, and he is hereby, em-
powered to draw £2,000, lawful money, out of the general'
treasury.
It is voted and resolved, that Mr. James Congdon, 3d,
as one of the committee of safety, be, and he is hereby, em-
powered to draw £1,500, lawful money, out of the general
treasury.
It is voted and resolved, that John Northup, Esq., as one
of the committee of safety, be, and he is hereby, empow-
ered to draw £1,500, in lawful money, out of the general
treasury.
Whereas, John Wells and Waterman Williams, two of the
workmen at the paper mill, are drawn to serve the state, as
148 RECORDS OF THE STATE OF RHODE ISLAND [MaKCH,
militia men, in the third division ; and this Assembly is in-
formed, that if said men are taken from the mill, the state
will be deprived of cartridge paper, which is at present very
much wanted, —
It is therefore voted and resolved, that they be dis-
charged from the said service.
It is voted and resolved, that the non-commissioned offi-
cers and soldiers, who enlisted in the Continental battalions
ordered to be raised within this state, before the additional
bounty was allowed by this Assembly to the non-commis-
sioned officers and soldiers who should enlist in said battal-
ions, be allowed the said additional bounty.
It is voted and resolved, that the act passed at the last
session of this Assembly, for confining John Weeden to the
town of Warwick, be, and it is hereby, repealed, with this
proviso, that the said John Weeden give his parole to His
Honor the Governor, that he will not go, or attempt to go,
upon any of the islands in the bay, without having leave
from this Assembly, therefor.
It is voted and resolved, that the committee of safety de-
liver to the officers in the Continental battalions, and fifteen
months regiments, so much of the clothing allowed the
non-commissioned officers and privates of said battalions
and regiments, as the said non-commissioned officers and
privates, by them enlisted, shall be in immediate want of.
It is voted and resolved, that the small arm, belonging to
Mr. Stephen Jenckes, be purchased by this state, and pre-
sented to one of the chiefs of the Oneida nation, now within
this state.
Whereas, Mr. John Brown, one of the committee appoint-
ed to make a present to the Oneida Indians, presented to
this Assembly an account thereof, which being duly exam-
ined,—
It is voted and resolved, that the same be, and hereby is,
allowed ; and that £26 13s. 3r/., lawful money, the amount
thereof, be paid the said John Brown, out of the general
treasury ; and that £12, lawful money, be allowed and
1777.] AND PROVIDENCE PLANTATIONS. 149
paid out of the general treasury, to Capt, Stephen Jenckes,
for a gun purchased of him, and made a present of, to the
said Indians.
It is voted and resolved, that it he, and hereby is, re-
commended to the independent company of the Kings-
town Reds, that they excuse George Tefft and Jeremiah
Sheffield (who are employed in making and stocking guns),
from doing service in said company, in the third division of
independent companies.
It is voted and resolved, that £100, lawful money, be al-
lowed and paid out of the general treasury, to Henry Mar-
chant, Esq.. appointed a delegate to represent this state at
the General Congress.
It is voted and resolved, that Mr. Jonathan Haszard, pay-
master to one of the Continental battalions ordered to be
raised within this state, be, and he herelrv is, empowered to
draw £1,000, lawful money, out of the general treasury, for
paying the bounties allowed to soldiers who shall enlist into
said battalions.
It is voted and resolved, that Mr. Andrew Comstock pro-
ceed with his sleigh and four horses, to convey the six In-
dian chiefs to the Honorable Governor Trumbull's, in Con-
necticut ; and that he receive for his services, in carrying
the chiefs and their baggage, £18, lawful money, out of the
general treasury.
Whereas, the committee appointed to estimate the sev-
eral towns, in order to apportion a tax upon the inhabitants
of this state, presented unto this Assembly the following re-
port, to wit :
Report of the Committee appointed to Assess a Tax upon the, In-
habitants of the State.
" We, the subscribers, being appointed by the General Assembly, at their last ses-
sion, at Providence, to form an estimate of the several towns within the state of Rhode
Island and Providence Plantations, and report the same to the next session of said As-
sembly, have accordingly met at the court house, in Providence, this 25th day of Feb-
ruary, 1777 ; and after examining the former estimate, as taken in the year 1767, and
maturely considering the several alterations, as additions to, and deductions of, property,
150 RECORDS OF THE STATE OF RHODE ISLAND [MARCH,
in each town -within this state, do report the value of each town to be as follows
to wit :
Newport £229,176 Westerly 58,485
Portsmouth 89,531 North Kingstown 95,653
New Shoreham 20,947 South Kingstown 184,456
Jamestown 34,531 Charlestown 48,237
Middletown 66,876 Richmond 39,041
Tiverton 73,211 Hopkinton 52,513
Little Compton 64,798 Exeter 54,359
£579,070 £532,744
Providence 225,524 Bristol 50,000
Smithfield 108,785 Warren 20,000
Scituate 80,861 Barrington 22,575
Gloucester 70,555 £92,575
Cumberland 40,992 Warwick 100,326
Cranston 74,806 East Greenwich 56,003
Johnston 31,000 West Greenwich 37,830
North Providence 29,512 Coventry 50,788
£662,355 £244,947
£2,111,371
THOMAS CHURCH, JAMES ARNOLD, JR.,
SHEARJASHUB BOURN, GEORGE PIERCE.
JOHN BROWN,
Providence, February 25, 1777."
And the said report being duly considered, —
Resolved, that the same be, and hereby is, accepted ; that
a tax of £16,000, lawful money, be assessed upon the inhab-
itants, and apportioned according to this estimate ; and that
the standing committee apportion said sum, and draft a bill
accordingly.
Protest against the above Vote.
" I, the subscriber, do beg leave to protest against the estimate, as now apportioned
by the committee appointed for that purpose ; it appearing to me there is a manifest
error, as it is evident from the present distressed situation of the town of Bristol, it is
estimated at too high a value ; the inhabitants being removed by reason of the troops
being barracked in their houses, and no trade or business of any kind being, by them
done ; they being under the disagreeable necessity and the expense of removing their fam-
ilies and effects, and hiring abroad places for their families to reside in ; the rivers and bays
being by the Author of universal nature so situated, that the ships of war of His Brit-
annic Majesty, and the tenders belonging to the same, can at all times harass them, and
keep the inhabitants from their lawful employments, unless the same standing force,
should be kept up, which at all times (while they are there stationed) renders their
houses and estates to them, in a great measure, useless.
Under all these disadvantageous circumstances, it appears to me, and I think must to
every reasonable member, that the said town is not able at present to pay so large a
tax as either of the towns of Warren or Barrington ; on these considerations it is
1777.] AND PROVIDENCE PLANTATIONS. 151
that I, as an inhabitant of this town, anil a number chosen by the free suffrages of the
same, and the state in general, to wit here, to see justice impartially administered, do
protest in solmen form against the said apportionment. SIMEON POTTER.
Providence, March 8, 1777.
It is voted and resolved, that Thos. Church, Esq., and Mr.
Cromel Child, be, and they are hereby, appointed a commit-
tee, to examine into any abstracts that may be suspected to
have been erroneously made out.
That they be empowered to call before them the officers
who made the same ; and that they make report to this As-
sembly, or to the council of war, as soon as may be.
Whereas, James Angell, Esq., hath represented to this As-
sembly, that he hath brought in a large quantity of wood?
for the use of the troops, and the inhabitants of the town of
Providence ; and that he will bring in a further quantity of
ten cords of wood, if he can be discharged from serving in
the third division of the militia, in which he hath been
draughted ; —
It is therefore voted and resolved, that he be excused
from doing service upon his bringing the above quantity of
wood into the town of Providence.
Whereas, John Howland, Jr., Jeremiah Ballard, 3d,
Ichabod Ballard, Luke Ballard, Nathan Paine, Jr., Elisha
Herrendeen, James Stone, Thomas Herrendeen, Jr. and Na-
than Paine, preferred a petition, and represented unto this
Assembly, that they are now prisoners under arrest, because
they cannot actively comply with the laws requiring of
them military duty :
That the council of war had extended to them the benefit
of a law made and passed at the last session, for the relief
of persons of tender consciences, and have referred them to
this Assembly for relief from fines already incurred ; and
thereupon, the said petitioners prayed this Assembly to
grant them a dismission and release from imprisonment,
that they may return to their families and lawful employ-
ments ; where, they trust, by their industry and circumspect
lives and conversations, they shall continue to merit the
152 RECORDS OF THE STATE OF RHODE ISLAND [MaRCIL,
countenance and protection of government ; and the prem-
ises being duly considered by this Assembly, —
It is voted and resolved, that the prayer of the said peti-
tioners, in their aforesaid petition contained, be, and the
same is hereby, granted.
Whereas, Noah Arnold, Jr. and Seth Hunt, preferred unto
this Assembly their petition, setting forth, that they are
now prisoners in the jail in Providence, for not appearing
according to the late draught of the militia ; that they have
before the council of war complied with a law passed at the
last session, for the relief of persons of tender consciences,
and are desirous to yield every kind of obedience to civil
authority, that is consistent with their religion ; and there.*
upon prayed to be released from the fines already incurred
by them ; and the premises being considered by this As-
sembly,—
It is voted and resolved, that the said Noah Arnold, Jr.,
and Seth Hunt, be discharged from jail and from their
fines.
Whereas, Amos Turner preferred his petition, and repre-
sented unto this Assembly, that he is now confined in jail,
for a fine of $36, incurred by his not appearing in the first
division of the militia, in which he was draughted; and
which being a matter of conscience, he could not find himself
clear to pay ; since which, this Assembly have passed an
act for the relief of persons of tender consciences, which at
the time he was draughted, he had not the advantage of,
though he has since complied therewith ; and thereupon,
prayed to be released from his present confinement ; and
the premises being duly considered by this Assembly, — •
It is voted and resolved, that the prayer of said petition
be, and the same is hereby, granted.
Whereas, Asa Potter preferred a petition to this As.
sembly, setting forth that he has been confined in prison
upwards of a fortnight, because he could not, for conscience
sake, take up arms ; and thereupon prayed this Assem-
bly that he might be released from his present confine-
1777..] AND PROVIDENCE PLANTATIONS, \ ■?.',
nient ; nnd the premises being duly considered by this As?
sembly, —
It is yotcd and resolved, that the prayer of said petition
be, and the same is hereby, granted ; and that the said Asa
Potter be discharged and dismissed from jail, upon his pro*
ducing a certificate of his taking the affirmation, agreeably
to the late act of this Assembly.
It is voted and resolved, that Mr. Jonathan Haszard be,
and he is hereby, empowered to diaw $2,470 out of the
general treasury, as paymaster to »me of the Continental
battalions, raising bv this state.
It is voted and resolved, that Benjamin L. Peckham be,
and he is herebj^, elected to the office of ensign, in the com-
pany of Captain Royzel Smith, in the second battalion of
Continental troops raised by this state, in the room of
Kinyon, who hath resigned.
It is voted and resolved, that the officers and soldiers in
Colonels Npyes and Sands's regiments, who engaged in the
service of this state before a commissary was appointed, and
furnished themselves with provisions, be allowed the value
of the rations as allowed them by Congress, during the time
they furnished themselves, as aforesaid ; and that the same
be paid them by the committee of safety, upon their pro-
ducing certificates of the rations due to them, as aforesaid,
from the said Colonels Noyes and Sands,
Whereas, Colonel Tallman hath informed this Assembly
that application hath been made to him to build a Conti-
nental vessel, in the state of Connecticut, and hath request-
ed the advice of this Assembly, respecting his engaging in
said service, —
It is therefore voted and resolved, that he be advised to
undertake the building of said vessel ; and that he be dis-
charged from the service of this state, at the expiration
of twenty days, or before that time, upon his application
to the council of war for that purpose, if his attendance,
should be required, for the above mentioned service, before
the expiration of said twentv days,
Yftfci YJJI. 20
154 RECORDS OF THE COLONY OF RHODE ISLAND [MARCH,
Whereas, Mr. Joseph Mathewson, one of the town council,
of Coventry, exhibited unto this Assembly an account by
him charged against the state, for a number of small arms,
bayonets, cartouch boxes, scabbards and belts ; and for a
number of blankets and knapsacks, by him supplied for the
use of the state ; and the said account being duly exam-
ined,—
It is voted and resolved, that the same be, and hereby is,
allowed ; and that the amount thereof, being £50 5s., lawful
money, be paid unto the said Joseph Mathewson, out of the
general treasury.
It is voted and resolved, that Robert Helme be appointed
an ensign in Captain William Potter's company, in the sec-
ond battalion of the Continental troops now raising in this
state, in the room of Allen James, who resigns.
It is voted and resolved, that Benjamin Diamond be ap-
pointed brigade major of the brigade in the service of this
state.
That Sion Martindale, who hath the care of the forts,
stores and ammunition in Bristol, have the rank and pay of
major ; and that Moses Turner be clerk to General West,
with an allowance of £6, per month.
Whereas, a quantity of flour, lately arrived in the sloop
Sally, Henry Sowle, master, from Philadelphia, hath been
seized by a warrant from General Varnum for the use of
the troops ; one-tenth part whereof is claimed by Mr-
James Robinson ; —
It is therefore voted and resolved, that upon his proving
his right thereto, to the satisfaction of the General Assem-
bly, he shall be paid the value of his part of said flour, with
the interest accruing thereon.
This Assembly being under greatconc ern, that no at-
tempt hath, as yet, been made against the enemy upon
Rhode Island, which they consider as a great disgrace to
New England, in general, and to this state, in particular, —
Do resolve, that it be, and hereby is, strongly recom-
mended to the Honorable Major General Spencer (if it be
1777.] AND PROVIDENCE PLANTATIONS. 155
any way consistent with prudence), to make an attack upon
the enemy at Rhode Island ; and in that case do engage in
behalf of the Congress of the United States, to pay to all
such volunteers as he shall engage in such an attempt, the
same wages as are given to soldiers in the Continental
service.
And it is further resolved, that the officers and soldiers
who go upon Rhode Island, shall be entitled to a reward of
$1,000, for every British or foreign general officer ; $200,
for a colonel ; $150, for a lieutenant colonel; $100, for a
major; $50, for every captain; $30, for every subaltern ;
and $20, for every private, taken prisoner, and brought
oft* the island, as aforesaid, within fifteen days ; and
that said reward be equally divided between officers and
privates.
And it is further resolved, that those of the inhabitants of
Rhode Island and Jamestown, who shall engage as volun-
teers in an attack on said island, form themselves into com-
panies .of not less than thirty-two men, and appoint their of-
ficers; that said officers being approved of by General
Spencer, be commissioned by His Honor the Governor •
that Major Tew, Captain John Topham, Thomas Stacey,
John Carr and Messrs. Charles Spooner and John Kilburn,
be requested forthwith to assemble such of the said inhabit-
ants who shall be willing to engage in said service, for the
purpose, aforesaid.
And His Honor the Governor is hereby requested to re-
quire the colonels of the militia, and commanders of inde-
pendent and alarm companies within this state, that they
forthwith assemble their companies, excepting those who
are now in service in the third division ; and that they en-
gage as many volunteers for said service, from said regi-
ments and companies, as may be procured ; that they be
formed into companies of not less than thirty-two men, and
appoint their officers ; who being approved of, shall be com-
missioned, as aforesaid.
And it is further resolved, that the volunteers who shall
156 RECORDS OF l"HE STATE OF ElfoCE ISLAND' [MaHCH.'
Enlist, &s aforesaid, in the county of Providence, assemble in
the town of Providence, an Wednesday, the 12th day of
March inst.
And thofee who shall enlist, as aforesaid, in Kings comity,
and Kent, assemble on the same clay, at East Greenwich.
That those who shall enlist in the county of Bristol, as-
semble at Bristol.
And those in the county of Newport, at Howlaild's Ferry^
on the same day ; that they equip themselves with arms
and accoutrements ; and when embodied, that they be un-
der the command of General Spencer.
And it is farther resolved, that His Honor the Governor.,
find General Spencer, be requested to write to the selectmen
Of the towns of Rehoboth, Taunton, Attleborough, Wren-
tham, Norton, Bellingham, Dighton, Swanzey, Freetown,-
Dartmouth and Middleboroug'h, and request their aid and
assistance, in engaging as many volunteers within their re-
spective town's, for the purpose, aforesaid, as may be pro^
cured ; and that they form themselves into companies, ap-
point their officers, and march to the town of Tiverton, oil
or before the 12th day of March hist.-
And it is farther resolved, that said Companies of volun-
teers be discharged oil the 20th day of March hist., or
sooner, if the service on which they are engaged will admit
of it.
Whereas, Captain Samuel Carr, and Benjamin Under-
wood, Esq., in behalf of themselves and others, late inhabit-
ants and freemen of Jamestown, preferred their petition,
and represented unto this Assembly, that they have, by the
directions of government, disposed of the greatest part of
their stock ; and being truly attached to the just cd-iise Of
the United States, have removed themselves and families from
said town of Jamestown, to the main laud, where they have
provided for them, out of the small sums of money received
for their stocks ; paying high rents for houses to live in for
the year past, and having but little profits of their lands,
which are now in the hands of the enemy ; and that they
1777.] and pro vid i:\ci: i'lantatidns. 157'
are still desirous to maintain themselves and families by an
honest industry, rather than submit to tile cruel mandates of
an arbitrary king, whose agents ard plundering and destroying
every thing valuable that was left upon their lands ; and there-
upon prayed this Assembly that they may have aii oppor"
tunity of hiring at a reasonable price some of the lands taken
into possession by government, which they are informed are
to be rented out this spring ; and further represented, that this
Assembly did, some thrie in the year prist, pass an act that
the freemen belonging to the town of Jamestown, who had
removed to the main land, might of right return to the
town of Janiestowil, to choose their representatives and
other officers ; that they cannot now enjoy that privilege ;
and that the greatest part of the freemen are how removed
to the main, with tile town's records ; and thereupon be-
sought this Assembly, that if the major part of the freemen
belonging to the said town of Jamestown agree and choose
their representatives, that the nien so chosen may be ad-
mitted as members of this Assembly ;■ on consideration
whereof, —
Be it enacted by this General Assembly, and by the au-
thority thereof it is enacted, that the prayer of the said
Samuel Carr and Benjamin Underwood, in their aforesaid
petition contained, be, and the1 same is hereby, granted.
It is voted and resolved, that the Honorable William
Bradford, Esq., Henry Ward, Esq., and Messrs. John Brown
and Cromel Child, or any two of thenl, be, and they are
hereby, appointed a committee to draft a letter to Congress,
representing the present situation of tile fleet now within
this state.
That the officers and meli on board said fleet have not
yet received their prize money ; and that said letter being-
approved of by the council of war, be signed by the Gov-
ernor, and forwarded as soon as may be.
It is voted and resolved, that Messrs. Cromel Child and
Sylvester Child be, and they are hereby, appointed a com-
mittee, to lease out the estates in the county of Bristol,
158 RECORDS OF THE STATE OF RHODE ISLAND [MARCH,
heretofore taken possession of by this state, to such persons
only as have heretofore subscribed the test ; and that they
receive the back rents, and pay the same into the general
treasury.
And it is farther voted and resolved, that Perez Kich-
mond, Esq., and Mr. Nathaniel Church, be a committee to
take into possession, and lease out the real estates in the
county of Newport, belonging to Messrs. Joseph Scott and
Edward Simmons, and to the heirs of Andrew Oliver, and
the estate in the possession of William Durfee, belonging to
persons in Great Britain, in behalf of this state, to such per-
sons only as have subscribed the test.
Bills Ordered to he Paid.
£ s. d.
Caleb Harris, for his time and expenses to Windham respecting the man-
ufacture of powder within this state - 3 10 06
Bela Elderkin, foi* his time and expenses from Windham to Providence,
to examine the powder manufactured in this state, &c 7 08 05
George Peirce, for expenses of himself and aid, in bringing to Providence
two persons who came from Rhode Island to North Kingstown, &c . . 1 07 06
Paul Allen, for his expenses, moneys by him advanced, aud sundry dis-
bursements, in fitting the sloop Diamond for Baltimore, on account of
the state 250 04 014
Mrs. Mehitable Field, for boarding and nursing John Hawkins, a sick sol-
dier, in service within this state , . . 1 10 00
John Sands, for boarding Adjutant Stelle, who went in the sloop Diamond
to Block Island, to manage an exchange of prisoners ; for boarding
the prisoners and people, and for sundry necessaries by him supplied
for the use of said sloop . . ., 12 1-1 08
House J. Helmc, for twenty -seven days' services as clerk to the council of
war 16 04 00
Thomas Church, for a cedar boat purchased for the guards at Beaeonnett
Point ; and for six oars belonging to said boat 0 03 06
Thomas Church, for cash by him paid for carting a chest of arms from
Cambridge to Bristol ; for going to Newport, to examine the arms be-
longing to Colonels Richmond and Lippitt's regiments ; and for his time
and expenses at Providence, as one of the committee, to estimate the
proportion of the several towns, &c 3 12 00
John Herrenden, for his services as armorer 12 00 00
William Channing, for his expenses in attending on the General Assem-
bly, as assistant clerk, at the last session 2 05 00
Nathaniel Mumford, for his services in finishing the adjustment of the ac-
counts of the committee of safety 0 12 00
Gideon Mumford, as one of the standing committee, for his services in
settling the accounts of the committee of safety 4 16 00
1777.] AND PROVIDENCE PLANTATIONS. 150
£ t. d.
Thomas Greene, for divers articles of provisions, wood, &c, by him fur-
nished to the troops stationed iii this state, &c 54 18 054
Thomas Greene, for his services as one of the committee for auditing ac-
counts 9 00 00
Benjamin Underwood, for purchasing guns for the use of the poor of the
town of Jamestown, §80.
Josias Lyndon, for his expenses to attend the Assembly, as clerk; and for
three-quarters of a ream of paper for the use of the house of deputies, 3 04 10
Simeon Potter, for three whale-boats, taken by order of General West and
Colonel Richmond, for the'troops to go upon Prudence, at the time it
was attacked by Wallace ; for two whale-boats, taken by order of Gov.
Bradford, to go upon Hog Island, to take oft" stock, &c. ; for cordage
delivered to William Throop, by Governor Bradford's order, and for
the use of his careening tall to draw cannon, &c 33 04 00
Executors of John Waterman, deceased, for his time, labor and sundry
materials by him provided for building a powder null for the use of
this state 324 11 08
William Potter, for priming the sashes and glazing the windows of the
court house in Kings county 14 11 00
Silas Casey, for expense of going express from Greenwich to Providence,
by order of William Greene, Esq., to inform the Governor of the ar-
rival of one of the government's salt-vessels, and for the storage of a
quantity of salt 23 04 01
John Sayles, Jr., for his expenses, three journeys from Bristol to Provi-
dence, to attend the general committee 4 10 00
George Rounds, for carting done by him for the service of the state 1G 05 00
Fenner & White, for a quantity of tallow candles for the use of the troops
in Bristol 11 08 10
Andrew Williams, for carting done by him, for the use of the troops 15 17 00,
Joseph Williams, " " " " " " " 9 15 00
Cromel Child, for materials by him provided for, and labor done in, mak
ing some repairs on the galley Washington 10 02 03
William Pearse, for boarding and nursing a soldier ; for six barrels of
cider, taken from his house at Bristol Ferry, by the soldiers who came
off Rhode Island, when the British troops landed there ; and for
thirty bushels of potatoes, taken for the use of the troops 13 05 00
God save the United States of America.
General Zee to the Governor of Rhode Island.
Pompton, 7th December, 1776.
Dear Sir : — As there is now no doubt of the enemy's directing a considerable force
towards your island, my duty to the public, and my regard for the welfare of your
colony, in particular, urge me to every expedient which may be serviceable to you ;
and I must entreat you not to impute the freedom with which I shall offer my thoughts
upon this occasion, to a petulance of disposition, but to the most pure and disinterested
zeal.
I have, sir, from what I have observed of the New England troops, the highest con-
fidence in the valor of your men, and common run of your officers ; particularly
those who are of the younger part. They have activity and fire, and in general, more
knowledge than those advanced in years ; who are not only destitute of knowledge,
160 RECORDS OF THE STATE; OF RHODE ISLAND [MARCH,
but incapable, from a certain rustincss of mind and tempe*, of acquiring any. In fact,
the only advantage of years in any profession, is, that it enables us to add to our stock
of knowledge. Hut if we do not avail ourselves of thedayswhich nature has made a.
presept of to us for this purpose, the more years have passed over our heads, the more
disqualified avo we, for the profession of a soldier of any rank.
Now, it unfortunately happens in New England, that to the most disqualified, tho
highest trusts are compiitted. To speak directly, the apppintments of generals in
your provinces, threaten destruction. But ip fact, it is impossible that you should
have men equal to this arduous task. Theory joined to practice, or a heaven-born
genius, can alone constitute a general. As to the latter, God Almighty indulges the.
modern world very rarely with the spectacle ; and I do not know, from what I have
seen, that he has been fpore profuse of this ethereal spirif to the Americans, than tq
other nations.
But to comp to the point : Rhode Jsland will probably be attacked; your pien and
younger officers are good, but I am persuaded you have no man with you, capable of
conducting ap army ; no man who has sufficient knowledge as an engineer.
I have therefore resolved to send a gentleman, with whosp great talents, activity and
zeal, I am well acquainted ; his name is Mrdmedy, a Frenchman. I entreat, ifyou can-
not give him the entire command, to be directed by his pounsels. You must excuse
his heat of temper, at tipies ; as it is derived from a noble source, that of enthusiasm
for your cause. Procure fpr him an able interpreter; and treat him, as \ am sure you
will, with all the respect and attentiop he deserves. God bless you, sir, and —
Believe me to be nmst devotedly, y»inrs,
CHARLES LEE.
To Qfqverncr Cooke.
P. S. I believe I shall send you Col. Varnuip ; but I hqpe yqu will continue to gfve.
Mr. Malmedy high colonial rank, which will lead him to Continental.
General Malniedy to. General Lee,
Providence, 10th December, 1770.
My General : — I cpuld not arrive tjll the Gtli, owing to the difficulty I met with in
some places, to procure horses '. as soon as I arrived, I sent the letter which you en-
trusted rne, to the Governor,
Accept, sir, my warmest thanks for the reconppendation with which yqu have honored
me ; and be assured I shall exert my utmost endeavors to repder ipyself worthy (jhcqpin
ion and goodness you have expressed in my behalf. The Governor desired me to view
the lines of circumvallation which were opened on the right bank of the river, by Mr.
Crow. They are drawn on that side quite arqund the town. They appeared to me,
to be at too great a distance from the town, and too extensive ; and from the difficulty
pf defending then), on a sudden emergency, and by reason of the great number of men
requisite for their defence
You know, My General, how dangerous sue]) lines are ; they have heretofore been
found useless in niany places; although traced out with great judgment. I proposed
to the gentlemen to draw others within them, and I perceived they were satisfied with
the utility of this, and agreed to it ; I changed the defences, and brought the posts
nearer ; and possibly, My General, when they are finished, you will think them capa-
ble of being defended ; they were desired by the people, to quiet their fears. I asked
last night for orders to see Howhand's Ferry, which you particularly recommended tq
pie. This morning I -wait for instructions.
J cannot give you a true idea of the distribution and .arrangement of the troops.
1777.]
AND FHOVIDENCE PLANTATIONS. 1G1
They are not yet settled, I always view with pleasure the great number of beautiful
towns which every moment present themselves to view. I can never believe the enemy
will be able to overrun this country without great difficulty. You have doubtless an
account of their numbers and positions.
You were pleased, My General, to request those gentlemen to give me the rank of colo-
nel, which they immediately granted to me. It is very flattering to me, to owe my pro-
motion to you. The qualities you possess, and the deserved reputation which you en-
joy, render this infinitely precious to me.
It is of great importance, My General, to mo, to be commissioned by Congress, if you
desire it, before the 1st of January, in order to be older in rank, than a number of others.
Permit me this morning, I beseech you, to beg the favor of you to make this demand
for me as soon as possible. My acknowledgments for the favor, shall equal the respect
with which-- I am, My General,
Your most humble, and most obedient servant,
MALMEDY.
To General Lee.
William Ellcry, Delegate from Rhode Island in ihe Continental
Congress, to the Governor of Rhode Island.
Philadelphia, December 10th, 1776.
Sir :-»-Since the enemy took possession of Fort Lee, General Washington, with the-
division under his immediate command, hath been constantly retreating, until they
have at length passed the Delaware; and I suppose mean to make a stand on tbo
banks of the river, opposite to Trenton.
To prevent their being hemmed in at Ilackensack, they passed the river of that
name, and the river P&saick, and retired to Newark. The enemy advanced; and upon
their approach, our army, being insufficient to withstand them, retreated to "Wood-
bridge ; the enemy followed. From thence, our army marched to Brunswick; the
British army soon appeared on the side of the Raritan, opposite to that town. A can-
nonade ensued, but without any hurt on either side, saving the killing of an Hessian
officer, by one of our cannon shot.
As the river is fordable, it would not do to continue there. Our troops decamped,
nnd marched to Princeton, where General Washington left a body of twelve hundred
men, under Lord Stirling, and with the rest moved to Trenton, and sent over the Dela-
ware his principal stores, to secure them from the enemy. After this was affected, he
sent a reinforcement to Lord Stirling; and hoping that he should be joined by the
militia of the Jersey and this state, and by General Lee ; who, it was said, with his
division, had passed the North Biver, and was advancing to join him, intending to
make a stand at Princeton ; but by a strange dilatoriness, and the confusion which
took place in the Jersey, on the enemy's penetrating their state, and the lukewarmness
(not to give It a worse name,) of this, the enemy had approached Princeton before a
sufficient number of militia from these states had joined General Washington, to enable
him to make an effectual stand there ; he therefore retreated to Trenton, and crossed
the river, with his army, last Saturday night. On Sunday, the enemy appeared at
Trenton, and a cannonade ensued, as at Brunswick. Yesterda}r, Generals Putnam and
Mifflin came to town, and inform that the enemy had disappeared from Trenton ; but
they could not tell whither they were gone.
I imagine we shall soon see them in that part of the Jersey, opposite the city, and
perhaps hear the thunder of their cannon and mortars, and feel the effects of shot and
bombs. We don't hear of a fleet yet in the Delaware, which I have for some time ex=
voiv. vin. 21
162 RECORDS OP THE STATE OF RHODE ISLAND [MARCH,
pected. I imagine the enemy dare not venture it, for fear they shall have ice, as well
as chevaux-de-frise, to encounter.
I hope we shall be able to keep them out of this state ; and we should be able to do
it, if the country would exert themselves with a tenth part of the spirit which the city
hath manifested on this occasion ; or if General Lee should join General Washington
with five or six thousand men, which I most devoutly wish for and expect. Where
he is, or what delays his coming, is unknown.
I find, by a private letter, from Newport (for I have [not] had intelligence of a higher
nature, for a long time), that General Lee had written to our state that he thought that
the embarkation at New York, was intended for Rhode Island ; and that this intelli-
gence had thrown the town of Newport into great confusion, and that the inhabitants
were all upon the wing.
We have heard of transports being prepared to receive troops various ways ; and for
six weeks past ; and that sometimes troops were really embarked ; and sometimes that
they have sailed for South Carolina or Rhode Island ; but I cant't find that they have
ever embarked any troops ; nor do I think they will, for either of these places,
while they pursue such high game, and mean to secure the posts and places they
have, and may, possess. They have not men enough to spare, at present ; nor do
I think they will have them this winter, for any distant expedition. However, as
I have often said, it is wise and prudent to be on our guard.
Captain Garzia, who will hand you this letter, cannot wait a moment longer, which
obliges me to close abruptly.
I am, with great respect,
Your Honor's most obedient, humble servant,
WM. ELLERY.
To Nicholas Cooke, Esq.
General Maimed?/ to General Lee.
Providence, December 20th, 177G.
Sir : — On my arrival hither, I delivered your letter to the Governor, and without
soliciting any promotion, offered my services.
The Congress of the state have immediately granted me the rank of colonel, which
gave me great satisfaction. Two hours after, having more attentively perused your let-
ter, and being determined by another circumstance, they conferred upon me the rank
of brigadier general, which I acknowledge was yet unmerited. Is there any reason to
fear, sir, that the promotion which is an act of mere favor contains but the seeds
of my disgrace ; and that those gentlemen, if the Continental Congress should hesitate,
have prepared for me but an humiliating situation at the very time they intend to load me
with their favors ? Is there a probability of my not keeping that rank ? If I do my
duty, it would seem somewhat unjust. That promotion was entirely unsolicited by me.
Fondly believing that Congress will attend to those observations, I entreat you will
point them out to that body in a striking manner.
I am, with respect, sir,
Your most obedient, and most humble servant,
MALMEDY.
To His Excellency General Lee, at the army of the United States of America, in the
Jerseys, or elsewhere,
1777.]
AND PROVIDENCE PLANTATIONS. 163
General Maimed y to General Lee.
Providence, 20th December, 1776.
My General :^I had in your orders on the 1st, that I should go to Rowland's Ferry,
which you particularly recommended to me.
The gentlemen of the committee imagined that Warwick Neck was more important,
since the enemy are in Rhode Island. I returned the same evening. I have traversed
all near to the point of Connecticut, all the neck of "Warwick. I cannot perceive in all that
part the possibibility of hindering the enemy from making a descent. The banks
throughout, are easy of access, and the vessels can come close to the land. There is,
however, an advantageous situation for a camp upon the high ground, from whence we
can hinder the enemy from forming and withdrawing themselves from the fire of their
cannon. It might serve as a camp of observation. On my return, I gave a particu-
lar account of this matter.
You knew, My General, the situation of the town of Warwick. It is mere folly to attempt
to defend it, in case the enemy makes a descent in its neighborhood. I there found
some works begun. I thought it my duty not to oppose the desire of the commandant-
We have therefore continued to prolong them, with some regularity, adapted to the
ground.
The same night I returned to Providence, and gave an account to the Governor of
the difficulty of defending the town, and that the post ought to be evacuated. I have
sent him an order of retreat for the detachment, with the out-guards, and requested
him to drive from Pawtuxet the great number of cattle and forage, which are on the
Neck. I cannot doubt but from its situation, that is the place where the enemy will
make their descent, if they land.
I think, My General, that after making efforts at Pawtuxet, and all along the river,
we ought to defend Providence, and there engage them. I presented to the Governor
four reasons to support this determination. I believe the place where I am, will, in a
month, be out of danger of a coup de main. In that case, a general Avho shall command
a force, supporting his left, and extending obliquely on the right, will cover Boston'
and that province ; and I do not believe the enemy dare enter Connecticut, and by
that means separate themselves from their vessels, which is their place of arms ; nor
are they so numerous, as to render themselves masters of the river. I beg pardon.
My General, for giving you this account of my arrangements, especially in a country
where you are much better acquainted with. Allow me the indulgence granted to a
scholar, who makes essays on your pieces, and whose feeble observations you can
easily rectify.
The county of Pawtuxet, is, and will always be, interesting. I pray you to assem-
ble some troops there, and to order a number of fascines, which can readily be found
at hand, where occasion requires.
The Governor appears to approve of rny opinion, and has requested me to continue to
give it on all matters. The little disposition I have seen in this town, relative to troops,
in this time of perplexity and danger, when all ought to be in a state of activity, has de-
termined me to present a regular distribution of the regiment, and an order of service.
I thought it necessary to send them accompanied with letters, and some sentiments in
honor of this country. I here enclose you a copy of my first letter, and the order of
service.
The gentlemen here are polite. I cannot but think myself honored with the testi-
monies they have given of satisfaction on my conduct ; and I am particularly flattered
with the rank they have given me. But, My General, I do not see that they have done
the smallest thing in the matter I propose to them, nor even in those things which
ought not be deferred a moment. Be pleased to put a favorable interpretation on what I
164 RECORDS OF THE STATE OE RHODE ISLAND [MARCH,
have the honor to say, and believe I give this detail only from the desire I have to see
proper disposition made foT the defence of this country.
Notwithstanding the proximity of the enemy, and the ease with which they may land,-
I do not see above six or seven hundred men at Warwick, one thousand or eleven hundred
here ; four hundred citizens at the 'most, ready to take arms, and only one company of
artillery. The colonels of the regiment do not know where to rendezvous, in case of
alarm ; I see no posts established ; I see no artillery in motion, nor any preparations for
Ihat purpose. No exercise at cannon, notwithstanding the great want of instruction.
Mean time, the enemy are ten thousand. They do not make any general movement ;'
but they can in one tide, embark in flat-bottomed boats, and land at Warwick Neck,
and arrive at Providence in four hours. That town is worth such an attempt at this
moment. It is very important, on account of the great quantity of merchandize and
ships in its port. I cannot account for the conduct of the English generals, if they
have good intelligence. The people here give themselves up to a lethargic idea, be-
cause they are not numerous, and because they serve as a defensive post to Rhode
Island. The Americans ought to fear the allusion ; for these two months it has beeri
very destructive.
General Lincoln arrived here the evening before last. I hope he will put tilings in
order. The next day, at 10 o'clock, he set out for Bristol and Rowland's Terry, with-'
Out my knowing of his journey.
I am sensibly affected with the disappointment, not having yet a lodging or a horsey
I waited on the committee. My interpreter informed them of my sensibility of not
knowing of the departure of General Lincoln, and that I had not yet taken a view of
what I proposed.
They answered with the same politeness as ever, that he desired me to see the place,
and proposed to make a tour with me ; and that he desired Mr. Varnum to inform me
of this. However, I was not informed as to what I proposed ; they were absorbed in'
business. It is a misfortune in a government, when military affairs are in the hands of
the legislative authority. These are related, but ought in their particular execution,
to be independent of each other. I have been well satisfied as to a lodging; but
I cannot be supplied with horses. I thought it my duty, sir, to give you a particular ac-
count. You have sent me with letters of business and confidence. You have, per-
haps, informed Congress, and have possibly a reliance on my zeal and good will. 1
will be very unfortunate, if in the execution of what I am charged with, I find them
useless ; and this cannot but appear by the actual situation of things.
I fear I shall not hereafter be thought worthy of any confidence ; and I am particularly
jealous of losing yours, and that of the Congress. I beg you will inform Congress of
the true situation of affairs. If, My General, I have expressed too' great a degree of
sensibility in this portrait, I know the goodness with which you have honored me ;'
and I beg you will correct any thing amiss, or which may displease; " Iloni soit qui
mal y pense."
I cannot too often repeat, My General, the civilities I have received from these
gentlemen. I owe them all my services, and they are but a small mark of my grati-
tude. I do not know how I shall be employed here. I beg you to recollect the ex-
pressions in your letter, and your pleasure when yOu sent me here. I have not yet
had a word of orders. To-day Mr. Lincoln is arrived. Mr. 'Varnum is d brigadier"
general. I have rank of him, in this province, I should be very glad to know the
line of service to Which I ought particularly to be designed. I am rio engineer by
profession. I have some knowledge, and some little abilities. I will finish the open
lines with diligence, because they are useful ; and because there is but one man here,
who knows that kind of work.
I shall apply myself to every thing that depends upon me, in this country ; but I
beg you will not confine me to that profession ; I can execute another with more ad
1777.]
AND PROVIDENCE PLANTATIONS. 1G5
Vantage. Be so kind, My General, as to consult Congress, and inform me what is
your and their intention respecting my services, and inform the Governor, to whom
you have recommended nte here. In whatever manner you dispose of me, I will not
neglect any of the duties which my condition, emulation and honor prescribe. These
are the pretensions, these the reasons to which I resign myself.
I should go to-day to Bristol and Ilowlitnd's Ferry, but it snows to such a degree,
that there is no travelling. I should be glad to be under your immediate orders, ir'
there are any appearances this spring. I am told half of the fleet is ill Virginia ; per-
haps you are there. I am sorry to be at such a distance from you.
I am, &c., MALMEDY.
To Gen. Lee.
Robed Morris to General Washington.
Philadelphia, December 21st, 1776.
Sir : — Notwithstanding there are several British men-of-war cruising in our bay, tl«C
Continental sloop Independence, commanded by Lieut. Robinson, has pushed through,
and got up here yesterday afternoon. There are on board eight hundred and fifty--
six blankets, which were intended, with many others now expected in, for the use of
the new enlistments ; but the inclement weather and the severe duty the troops under
your command have to perform, induces me to think these blankets should be applied
to their use. In this matter, however, you will please to judge and act as yoU see fit :
for I shall send them to the camp for your orders, so soon as the weather will permit
them to be landed.
There is also arrived in this sloop, a quantity of cloths, which I shall put into the hands
of Mr. Mease, comlnissary, to have made up immediately. There are also nine hun-
dred and nineteen muskets on board. These, I suppose, you do not want ; and I will
sfend them out of town, to the other stores, unless you signify a desir'e for any other
application of them.
I have the pleasure to inform you, that Mr. Deane, in his letter of the 30th Septem-
ber, received by this sloop, says he looks upon a French war as inevitable. He ex-
pects to furnish us with ample supplies for thirty thousand men, and a noble train of
artillery, mortars, &c. ; so that if you can but drive our enemies back to New York, for
this winter, we may hope for much better things next spring than we have experienced
of late.
I find my presence so necessary here in several departments, that I shall stay as
long as I can with safety ; but as I am possessed of public papers, that must never fall
into the hands of the enemy, I should be glad of a line from you whenever you think
it would be best for me to retire ; and if you have any commands here, in which I can
be serviceable, be assured of my ready attention. Your several despatches to Con-
gress, have passed through my hands, and I have informed them fully of such things
as have come to my knowledge, respecting pubic matters.
Poor Lee, I pity him, exceedingly; and feel much for the public loss in him.-
Should j-ou hear any thing of the treatment he meets with, I should thank you or Mr.
Tilghman, for a line on that subject. I fear he will meet with insupportable insults,
and if so, his situation must be wrorse than that of the damned.
I have beeh told to-day, that you are preparing to cross into the Jerseys. I hope it
may be true, and promise myself joyful tidings from your expedition. You have my
sincere prayers for your success ; as nothing would give me greater pleasure than to
hear of such occurrences as your exalted merit deserves.
I have the honor to remain,
Your Excellency's most obedient, humble servant,
ROBERT MORRIS.
To His Excellency General Washington.
166 RECORDS OF THE STATE OF RHODE ISLAND [MARCH,
Robert Horn's to General Washington.
Philadelphia, December 23d, 1776.
Sir : — I had the honor to receive your obliging favor of yesterday, by Colonel
Moylan. The contents give a most melancholy aspect to our affairs ; and I wish to
Heaven, it may be in our power to retrieve them.
It is useless at this period, to examine into the causes of our present unhappy situa-
tion, unless that examination would be productive of a cure for the evils that surround
us. In fact, those causes have long been known to such as would open their eyes.
The very consequences of them were often foretold, and the measures execrated by
some of the best friends of America ; but in vain. An obstinate partiality to the habits
and customs of one part of this continent has predominated in the public councils,
and too little attentioh been paid to others. To criminate the authors of our errors,
would not avail; but we cannot see ruin staring us in the face, without thinking of
them.
It has been my fate to make an ineffectual opposition to till short enlistment*, \0 colo-
nial appointments of officers, and to many other measures that I thought pregnant with
mischiefs ; but these things either suited the genius and habits, or squared with the
sentiments of some states that had sufficient influence to prevail; and nothing is now
left, but to extricate ourselves from the difficulties in which we are involved, if we
can. Let us try our utmost ; man can do no more. I shall urge Mr. Mease to go on
as briskly as possible with the clothing; but it's impossible for him to make much pro-
gress, as most of the tailors are at the camp. The muskets and other stores shall be
sent out of the city, and such papers as I can spare, shall be sent away. The fleet has
always been my particular care ; and at this time, I am exceedingly anxious for its
safety ; but the difficulty of getting any thing done, is inconceivable. Most of the
tradesmen necessary to finish the Delaware, are at camp. I have applied to the
Council of Safety to order some few of them down ; although they wish, yet they fear
to do it, lest the rest should follow.
I have now under my care, the Randolph and Delaware frigates- ; the brigantine
Andrew Doria ; sloops Hornet, Independence, and Fly ; aud schooner Musquito ; all
Continental armed vessels ; besides several valuable merchantmen ; all which, I wish
to get out to sea, and think it might be effected, if every man concerned would exert
himself in' his department. I try to give them spirits, and invigorate their exertions,
all in my power.
The enemy have six sail cruising about our capes, and keep a special look out. Not-
withstanding this, the brigantine Andrew Doria, Captain Isaiah Robison, passed
through them, and got safe up this day. She left St. Eustatia the beginning of this
month, and on the passage took a sloop of twelve guns, fitted out by Admiral Gay ton
at Jamaica, agreeably to orders of the lords of the admiralty. She also took a snow
from Jamaica, and ordered both prizes in here ; but it's most likely they will be re-
taken. Before I quit this subject, permit me observe, that there is a Lieutenant Josiah,
of our navy, prisoner, and now at New York ; and we have prisoner at Yorktown, in
this state, a Lieutenant Bogan, of their navy. I could wish an exchange between them
conld be effected. There is also a Doctor Hodge, surgeon to Colonel Cadwalader's
battalion of Fennsylvanians, now prisoner in New York, a young man of much merit;
and his abilities in his profession, would render him very useful, could he be ex-
changed.
The sloop taken by the Andrew Doria, was commanded by a Mr. Jones, who has
the King's commission as master and commander. He behaved bravely; and I am
told he says Lord Howe will be desirous to redeem him. I suppose his rank to be
1777.]
AND PROVIDENCE PLANTATIONS. 1G7
equal to a major's or lieutenant colonel's ; which I mention, that Your Excellency may
advert to it, if you wish for an exchange of any particular officer of merit, of that rank.
This brigantine was sent by the secret committee for clothing and stores, and has
brought in the following cargo :
Two hundred and eight dozen pair of woolen stockings; one hundred and six dozen
pair of worsted stockings ; two hundred and fifteen sailors' jackets ; twenty-three great
coats ; fifty pieces Dutch plains ; thirty pieces (nine hundred yards,) flannel ; forty-five
pieces blue, brown and white cloth ; four hundred and sixty-three blankets ; two hun-
dred and eighteen pieces seven-eighths linen ; four hundred and ninety-six muskets ;
three hundred and twenty-six pair pistols; two hundred half barrels powder; fourteen
thousand one hundred and one pounds lead.
I have enumerated these articles, that you may judge what part is wanted for your
army; and your orders shall be complied with. I shall only observe that these im-
ports were intended for the new levies ; but circumstanced as you are, I think you
should judge solely of the propriety of applying them to our present exigencies.
The brig Lexington and sloop Sachem, may be hourly looked for, with further sup-
plies ; also sundry merchantmen ; but I dread their approach to our capes. They
took a French snow, in sight of the Andrew Doria, who protected her as long as
it was possible.
I am fearful General Lee may suffer for want of money, if the resentment of British
officers runs as high as they have threatened ; threfore, to prevent present distress, I
enclose herein, a set of exchange, drawn by the late Governor Eden's secretary, Mr.
Smith, on Messrs. Thomas Eden & Co., for £100, sterling, which I beg you will con.
vey by a flag to General Lee, with an assurance of a further supply, whenever he
wants it. I have endorsed the bills, and flatter myself that many gentlemen now in
New York, to whom I am known, will advance the General the money upon them. I
have no doubt but this matter may be so managed, as that General Lee will certainly
get these bills and the money for them, without putting you to much inconvenience ;
and — With the utmost esteem, I remain, dear 6ir,
Your most obedient servant,
ROB'T MORRIS.
To His Excellency General Washington.
P. S. Having sent sent my stores out of town, this is the best paper I can command
at present.
William Ellcr//, Delegate from Rhode Island in Hie Continental
Congress, to the Governor of Rhode Island.
Baltimore, December 25th, 177G.
Sir: — I did myself the honor of writing to you, by Captain Garcia, the 10th instant ;
since which, nothing new hath taken place that I know of, in the army, excepting the
capture of General Lee, by a party of the enemy's light horse, on the 18th.
By some fatality, as General Sullivan in a letter to Congress, expresses himself,
General Lee, with his family, took lodging in a farm-house, about three miles distant
from the army under his command. Some tories informed the enemy of his situation.
They sent off eighty light horse to take him, who surrounded and attacked the house.
The General, with his family, made a manly resistance, but were finally obliged to
submit, and the poor General was carried away the captive.
A fatality, strange indeed, for some time past, hath seemed to attend our affairs.
The loss of Fort Washington, when twenty-six hundred of our men were captivated in
an inglorious manner ; the loss of Fort Lee, by surprise, with a great quantity of
168 RECORDS OP THE STATE OF RHODE ISLAND [MARCH,
stores, and the capture of the General, who was honored by his name being given to
that fort ; and, in short, all our affairs, have in a strange manner proceeded. I hope in
God better fortune will attend our future operations.
General Howe's army, by our last advices, had extended itself along the Delaware,
towards the north principally, with an apparent design to pass the river. Gen. Wash-
ington had posted his army along the river, so as to obstruct their passage. Some of
the militia of Pennsylvania, the lower counties, and Maryland, are about to reinforce,
and some have actually reinforced, his army ; and General Sullivan, on whom the
command of the division late under the command of the unhappy Lee, is devolved,
was on the 13th of this month, marching to join him. When they join, they will to-
gether make a respectable army, sufficient to prevent Howe's entering Pennsylvania.
Indeed, the armies must before this, have formed a junction, if General Sullivan's di-
vision hath not been repulsed by General Howe. We expect to hear from Philadel-
phia every moment ; if any thing uew shall arrive before I am obliged to close my
letter — — —
You have doubtless before this, heard of the removal of Congress to this place.
This is the first opportunity I have had, and this is circuitous (via Boston), to inform
you of it. The enemy was so near, and affairs in the city in such confusion, that it
was improper and unsafe to continue there, and for reasons too long for a letter. Bal-
timore was fixed upon as the most suitable place for holding Congress in, for the
present. I should like the place well enough, if it was less distant from the army, less
dirty, and less expensive.
It is long since I have heard from my constituents, What is doing, and how
matters stand in our state, I know no more than an inhabitant of the moon ; although it
would be beneficial to have every information seasonably.
We have an account that a fleet, with eight or ten thousand men, have gone to New-
port, and that the island was evacuated by tho inhabitants ; but that the enemy had
not landed. By a letter from General Wooster to Congress, of the 8th of this instant,
we are informed that the fleet on the 6th, were off New London. If it be true that so
large a force hath gone to Rhode Island, something more is intended, in my opinion,
than the bare taking the town of Newport for winter quarters. I suspect that they
mean to take possession of Providence, and from thenco penetrate into the Massachu-
setts Bay.
If they attack Providence, it will be by land. They will pass up tho bay, to War-
wick Neck, perhaps, then land, and march to the town. There ought to be a good re-
doubt at Warwick Point, to check their landing, and give time for troops to be arrayed,
to oppose their progress. I think that this division of the enemy's army, affords us a
fine opportunity to make an officacious stroke on them.
As soon as I had notice, that I thought I could depend upon, I immediately proposed
to the New England delegates to write to General Washington, informing him that a
fleet, with a large body of troops, under Clinton, had sailed for Rhode Island, and do-
siring him to send General Gates or Greene, with such brigadier generals as could be
spared, to take the command and direction of the troops that might be raised in New
England, to repel the enemy from the Island, or oppose their making any inroads into
the country. It was agreed to, and a letter written. The General told us in answer,
that he had received previous notice, and had sent orders to Generals Arnold and
Spencer, who were then at Albany, to repair to New England, and take the command
of the yeomanry that should muster on this occasion. I hope that the militia will uni-
versally turn out, and not suffer the enemy to enter and ravage our state as they have
done the Jersey. I hope they will turn out in such numbers as to be able to give an
effectual blow to the enemy in our quarter.
If the army under Clinton should receive a mortal wound from the brave New Eng-
enders, it would, in my opinion, bring the war to a speedy close; whereas, if this op-
1777.]
AND PBOVEDENCE PLANTATIONS. 1G9
portunity of the division of the liritisli army should he neglected, or not improved, the
•war, in all probability, will be protracted to a great length, if not speedily issued in our
destruction, in the destruction of all we hold dear; for we have good reason to think
that a reinforcement of twenty thousand men will be sent over next spring.
By a letter from an unknown, hut I suppose good hand, read in Congress this day,
it appears that the court of London had attempted, and were attempting by every
means they could devise, to procure aid from every power in Europe, or to induce
them to a neutrality ; and the writer of the letter gave it as his opinion, that what they
could collect in Germany, together with recruits raised in England, Scotland and Ire-
land, would amount to about that number ; and that Russia would not furnish them
with any men. From hence, the necessity appears that we should act in every quarter
this winter, with the spirit of men contending for an invaluable prize.
By expresses from Philadelphia, received this day, it seems that the militia of that
state begin to rouse themselves, and are collecting very fast, to reinforce Gen. Wash-
ington. I have some hopes that Howe will be driven out of the Jersey this winter. If
this should take place, and the New England states should give Clinton a sound drub-
bing, we then need not fear what Britain, with all her mercenaries, should attempt.
There are brave, enterprising spirits in Providence. They burned a Gaspee. They
may burn the British fleet. I hope they will make the trial, and every effort to de-
stroy both fleet and army. I imagine that there are a number of seamen in port, be-
longing to the navy of the United States, as well as privateers. These men, I should
think, could be easily induced to enterprise any thing. They are brave, and well
know that if the British fleet is suffered to remain in our bay, there will be an end to
privateering, by which they have made immense gain.
"What I have written on this head, goes on this supposition, that a fleet, with a large
body of troops, is at Rhode Island ; and flows from that warm regard I have for the
state of Rhode Island, and the glorious cause in which we are embarked. In this
cause, I am willing to exert, and have exerted, my best abilities ; for this, I have suf-
fered great anxiety ; have left wife and children, and the sweetest and closest connec-
tions in life.
Where my wife and children are, I know not. I hope they have escaped from Rhode
Island, and are not fallen into the hands of the enemy. If they should have been so
unhappy, I hope the state will interfere in their behalf, and procure their release.
I wish that an additional delegate may have been chosen, and that he may have set
off for Congress. If it should not have been done, I hope it will be speedily done, and
that an addition might be made to the salary already voted ; and I believe the Assem-
bly will not think me mercenary, nor an addition unnecessary, when they are informed
that I am obliged to give $6 a week for boarding myself; and that every article of
living is doubled within a year or two. . I ask no more of the state than sufficient to
give me a decent support while I am in its sc-vice ; and I know the generosity of my
constituents too well to doubt of their disposition to do what is right in this instance.
To that generosity and good disposition, I readily submit this matter ; and —
Am, with the sincercst regard,
Their, and Your Honor's friend, and humble servant,
WILLIAM ELLERY
To Governor Cooke.
VOL. vni. 22
170 RECORDS OF THE STATE OF RHODE ISLAND [MARCH,
William Ellery, Delegate from Rhode Island in the Continental
Congress, to the Governor of Rhode Island.
Baltimore, December 31st, 1770.
Sir : — I received your letter of the 80th of November, and laid it before Congress,
and took particular notice of the very weak condition of our state.
Congress are sensible of its situation ; but as they have, by a late resolve, which the
President will, by this express, transmit to you, with a circular letter, in which the
reasons for their doings are contained, delegated to, and invested General "Washington
with the whole military power for a limited time, application will probably be made to
him in every instance which respects the military department. With regard to the
other parts of your letter, which were ordered to be laid before Congress, as they
required no particular observation, none were made upon them, either by Congress
or me.
I was extremely glad to receive so much particular information into the affairs of
our state, and hope you will continue to make me acquainted with such doings of the
General Assembly, from time to time, as may be thought proper to be communicated.
I should be glad to know whether we have any powder mills in the state. Whether
they are going, and supplied with salt petre to keep them in motion. At present, in-
deed, if any should have been erected in the state of Rhode Island, they may be
stopped by the enemy having entered our state ; but I hope so large a force Avillsoon
be (if it should not be already) collected, as to give security to the town of Providence,
and prevent them from making any incursions into our state, to confine them to Rhode
Island, if not expel them from thence ; in which cases, all mechanical business and
manufactures may proceed.
In my last, of the 24th of this instant, notwithstanding the gloomy appearance of
our public affairs, I still expressed hopes that Gen. Washington might be reinforced by
the division under General Sullivan, and the militia from the state of Pennsylvania
and thus reinforced, be enabled to meet aud drive the enemy from the Jerseys. Gen.
Sullivan, with his division, and some of the troops from Ticonderoga, whose time of
enlistment had expired, under General Gates, have joined General Washington ; and
also, some of the Pennsylvania militia. This, and the glorious success of an enter
prise well planned by our general, and as well executed on the morning of the 26th,
have elevated my hopes, and give good reason to expect that our cruel foes may be
driven from Jersey.
The President, 1 suppose, will send you an account of that enterprise ; but lest he
should omit it, and as we have been for some time unsuccessful, and this noble exploit
may exhilerate the spirits of my countrymen under their present situation, I can't forbear
enclosing you a hand-bill of the particulars, with some additions on the reverse, made
from Gen. Washington's letter of the 27th. I heartily congratulate you on this noble,
this unexpected event — an event which, though by no means decisive, yet by the spirit it
will give to the troops in actual service, to the militia in the neighboring states, to our
army, and to all the United States, is of the greatest importance. I hope, and do not
doubt, but that it will have a fine effect upon the troops which may be collected to sup-
port our state, and urge them on to some such enterprise, if they should have an op-
portunity to execute it.
Among other things that fell into our hands by the victory at Trenton, were four
standards ; one of which is now in the room where Congress is held, and directly be-
fore me. It is a Plessian silken standard. The battalions which were suprised and
subdued, were the regiments ot Landspatch, Kniphausen and Rohl, I would describe
it, if! were acquainted with heraldry, and if it were important enough to engage your
1777.]
AND PROVIDENCE PLANTATIONS. 171
attention. In the centre of a green field of about four or five feet, is a decorated
giltcd circle, which encloses a lion rampant, with a dagger in his right paw, and this
motto in the upper part of it, " Nesit Pt ricula ;" the crest is a crown, with a globe ami
cross upon it. In the corners are gilted decorated circles, witli crowns, and globes and
crosses on their tops ; and in their middle " F. L.," in cyphers. A broad blaze ex
tends from the corners to the piece in the centre ; and three small blazes are placed in
the field : one in the middle of the side next staff, one in the opposite side, and one in-
the midst of the lower side or bottom. How well the motto suits the conduct of the
troops where it was once waved, I shall leave, and you, sir, with this sincere wish, that
the troops in our state may acquire like trophies ; that this successful, happy enter-
prise, may prove an omen of future decisive victory over our barbarous foes.
I continue to be, with the greatest esteem and consideration.
Your Honor's most obedient and humble servant,
WILLIAM ELLEKY
P. S. Enclosed, you have a newspaper, which contains the first number of
"Crisis;" an animated, useful performance, and which ought, in my opinion, to be
re-printed every where in America.
The express not going out so soon as was expected, gives me an opportunity to
send you a printed copy of Gen. Washington's letter, and the return of the prisoners,
&c. What I have called the standard, may be only one of the colors mentioned in the
return. There is a report that a body of our troops, under General Heath, had taken
possession of Hackensack and Fort Lee, and captured one hundred and thirty prisoners,
a number of tories, &c, &c. I wish it may prove true. There indeed appears to be
good ground to credit it. I was just now told by a gentleman who had conversed with
the aid de camp, who brought General Washington's letter, that His Excellency's
horse was wounded under him ; and that we had taken more prisoners than were men-
tioned in the return, and more arms. W. E.
To the Honorable Nicholas Cooke, Esq.
William Ellery, Delegate front, Rhode Island In the Continental
Congress, to the Governor of Rhode Island.
Baltimore, January 7th, 1777.
Sir : — I received your letter yesterday, by an express from Philadelphia. Your ex-
press was so fatigued, that he could not proceed immediately on ; and therefore another
was sent forward with it.
I laid your letter and the resolve before Congress this morning. They are disposed
to do every thing in their power for the benefit of* the states, and have taken such
measures as they thought might be effectual to procure the assistance you wish for.
The measures that have been taken to prevent the enemy from penetrating the country,
and for expelling them from our state, give me vast satisfaction.
I hope the troops in our quarter will act on the offensive, and with spirit. Offensive
operations have proved successful ; while our defensive measures have been attended
with loss and disgrace. I have in my last, given you an account of General Washing-
ton's success at Trenton, on the 26th of last month.
I wish I could give you the particulars of his success at the same place on the 3d
instant. By private letters by the post yesterday, it appears that he had gained a
complete victory over a large body of the enemy ; pursued them to, and took posses-
172 RECORDS OF THE STATE OF RHODE ISLAND [MARCH
sion of Princeton, and was still pursuing, captivating and destroying them when the
last accounts reached Philadelphia.
An express is expected this day ; but as one sets oif immediately for the last men-
tioned place, who will deliver this to your express, who was so fatigued that he could
not come on ; I cannot wait for the particulars ; and have only time to add, that I
heartily congratulate you on our late successes in the Jerseys ; that I wish equal suc-
cess to the troops in our state ; and that1 —
I am, with great respect,
Your Honor's most obedient, humble servant,
WM. ELLERY.
To the Honorable Governor Cooke.
P. S. I have requested Mr. Morris, one of the Pennsylvania delegates, to send you
the particulars of the last action, by your express.
John Hancock ; President of the Continental Congress, to the General
Assembly of Rhode Island.
Baltimore, January 10th, 1777.
Gentlemen :— The necessity of filling up the army with the utmost expedition, has
induced Congress to direct me to request that you will, as soon as possible, inform them
what success the recruiting service has met with in your state, towards raising the
troops required by a resolve of the 16th of September, which was formerly transmitted
to you. I am therefore most earnestly to entreat your compliance with this resolve
as speedily as possible.
I have the honor to be your most obedient, and very humble servant,
JOHN HANCOCK, President.
To the Honorable the Assembly of the state of Rhode Island.
The Governor of Rhode Island to John Hancock, the President of
the Continental Congress.
Providence, February 3, 1777.
Sir : — I am favored with yours of the 10th ult., desiring a return to be made to
Congress of the number enlisted into the Continental battalions, assigned as the quota
of this state.
In answer to which, I am to inform you, that very soon after the appointment of
some of the officers, we were alarmed with the appearance of a formidable fleet in the
Sound, whose destination we had no doubt was for this state. This turned our atten-
tion towards our immediate defence. As it was absolutely impracticable to raise with
expedition, forces to serve during the war, the General Assembly concluded to raise
two battalions of seven hundred and fifty men, each; and one regiment of artillery, of
three hundred, for fifteen months, who are enlisted for the service of this state, and
the other United Stales.
So large a body of the enemy being within this state, hath compelled us also to keep
one-third of all the fencible men in the state under arms. Add to these, the loss of
Rhode Island, so great a part of the state, and that we have not had until very lately
more than one recruiting officer for the Continental battalions, in the state. All which
causes, have prevented any considerable enlistment.
1777.] AND PROVIDENCE PLANTATIONS. (7o
About fifty men have been enlisted; and permission is now given to those that en-
listed for fifteen months, to enter into the Continental battalions, which I have no-
doubt will furnish a considerable number. The General Assembly will meet to-morrow,
and do every thing in their power, to promote this most important service.
I am, with great esteem, sir,
Your most humble servant,
NICHOLAS COOKE.
To the Hon. John Hancock, President of Congress.
Proceedings of the General Assembly, held for the Slate of Rhode
Island and Providence Plantations, at Providence, on the fourth
Monday in. March, 1777.
The Hon. Nicholas Cooke, Governor.
The Hon. William Bradford, Deputy Governor.
Whereas, the appointment and commission of Brigadier
General James Mitchell Varnum, in the service of this state,
has been superseded by his being appointed, by the Hon-
orable the Continental Congress, to the same rank in the
Continental army ; this Assembly do therefore, with grate-
ful remembrance of his services, —
Vote and resolve, and it is voted and resolved, that he be
dismissed from the said appointment ; and that he be paid
to the time his pay commenced in the Continental service.
This Assembly, taking into consideration the embarrassed
circumstances of this state, and the great expenses daily accru-
ing for its defence ; and His Excellency Gen. Washington
having directed two generals of the Continental army, to
take command of the troops stationed here, whereby it is
unnecessary to retain in service general officers at their
separate expense ; wherefore, this Assembly, retaining a
very grateful sense of General West's zeal in the cause of
his country, and of his conduct as an officer ; and not
doubting his utmost exertions in their service on any future
occasion, —
174 RECORDS OF THE COLONY OF RHODE ISLAND [MARCH.
Do vote and resolve, and it is voted and resolved, that lie
be, and hereby is, dismissed from the office of brigadier gen-
eral, in the service of this state.
It is voted and resolved, that none of the members of the
General Assembly receive any allowance for their attend-
ance the first day of the session, excepting such only as reside
more than twenty miles from the place at which the Assem-
bly shall be convened, and shall set out on the first day of
the session.
It is voted and resolved, that Colonel Jonathan Arnold,
Thomas Wells and John Northup, Esqs. ; Colonel Sylvester
Child and Gideon Hoxsie, Esq., be, and they are hereby, ap-
pointed a committee, to explain the intention of this Assem-
bly, in an act for regulating the prices of labor, &c. ; and for
making; such alterations therein, and addition thereto, as to
them shall appear necessary ; and that they make report as
soon as may be.
It is voted and resolved, that it be, and hereby is, recom-
mended to His Honor the Governor, to issue his warrant for
forthwith apprehending the following persons, who are sus-
pected of carrying supplies to, and keeping up a corres-
pondence with, the enemy, viz. :
Charles Slocum, Ebenezer Slocum and Slocum, sons
to Charles Slocum ; and Jonathan Lawton, who is suspect-
ed of being employed by the enemies of this state in rais-
ing recruits for their service ; and that they be brought be-
fore this Assembly, as soon as may be.
Whereas, our relentless enemies have possessed them-
selves of the towns of Newport, Portsmouth, Middletown
and Jamestown, whereby the freemen of those towns are
deprived of the privilege of meeting at their usual places,
for the choice of general officers, and deputies, to represent
them in General Assembly, and such town officers as they
have chosen on proxing day ; —
It is therefore resolved, that those persons who were
known to be freemen, in either of those towns, to the number
of seven, at the least, from each town, respectively, be, and
1777.] AND PROVIDENCE PLANTATIONS. L75
they are hereby, authorized and empowered, to meet at the
places hereafter mentioned, to wit :
Those of the town of Newport, at the state house, in
Providence.
Those of Portsmouth and Middletown, at the house of
William Durfee, in Tiverton.
And those of Jamestow n, at the house of Matthew Allen,
in North Kingstown, on the third Wednesday in April next,
at ten o'clock in the forenoon, for the purpose of choosing
general officers, deputies, and town officers, aforesaid, for
their respective towns ; they conducting such choice agree-
ably to the usages and practices in their respective towns,
heretofore ; and that this resolve be inserted in the next
Providence Gazette.
Whereas, Mr. William Hull, of South Kingstown, in the
county of Kings, yeoman, preferred a petition, and repre-*
sented unto this Assembly, that he is bondsman for Jona-
than Hazard, paymaster to one of the Continental battal-
ions, in the sum of $20,000 ; conditioned, as he thought, for
his, the said Jonathan's duly accounting for the sum of
$10,000, which he was then about to receive out of the gen-
eral treasury, and no more ; that he is since informed that,
by virtue of said obligation, he is accountable for whatever
sums of money the said Jonathan may receive, who hath
since received large sums out of the treasury ; and that
being desirous to be released from said obligation, he ap-
plied to the said Jonathan, and requested him to account
for the moneys he had received ; which he then promised
should be done, but hath neglected so to do ; and there-
upon, the said William Hull prayed this Assembly, that said
Jonathan may be required to render an account of the
moneys by him received ; that no further sums be allowed
him as paymaster, as aforesaid ; that he be compelled to
procure other bondsmen, or be dismissed from his office,
that so he may be discharged from his aforesaid obligation ;
and the premises being duly considered, —
It is voted and resolved, that no further sums of money,
176 RECORDS OF THE STATE OF RIIOPE ISLAM) [MARCH,.
or any other articles, be allowed and delivered to Jonathan
Hazard, paymaster to one of the Continental battalions,
until he hath procured other sufficient bondsmen for his
faithfully executing the trust reposed in him.
That he forthwith render an account to the standing com-
mittee, of what money or other articles may have been paid
and delivered him, as paymaster, as aforesaid.
That said committee make report to the council of war,
as soon as ma}" be ; and that upon the said Jonathan's duly ac-
counting for whatever money or other articles he may have
received as paymaster, as aforesaid, said obligation be de-
livered to the said William Hull.
It is voted and resolved, that the Colonels Richmond, Lip-
pitt and Cook, be, and they are hereby, requested to call
upon the officers of their respective regiments, and inquire
of them in what manner the small arms, delivered the sol-
diers of the said regiments by this state, are disposed of;
and that they make Teport to this Assembly, as soon as
may be.
It is voted and resolved, that the Honorable Stephen Hop-
kins, Esq., and James Helme, Joseph Hazard and Sylvester
Robinson, Esqs., the committee heretofore appointed to
transact the affairs of the Indians, make report of their pro-
ceedings to this Assembly, at the next session ; and that a
copy of this resolve be transmitted to them, as soon as may
be, at the expense of the tribe.
An Act assessing and apportioning a rate or tax of £16,000,
lawful mone}^, upon the inhabitants of this state.
Be it enacted by this General Assembly, and by the au-
thority thereof it is enacted, that a tax of £16,000, lawful
money, shall be assessed upon the inhabitants of this state,
to be levied, collected and paid into the general treasury, on
or before the 1st day of August next, in bills of public
credit, emitted by the Congress and this state.
And be it further enacted by the authority aforesaid, that
the poll tax shall be eight shillings; being sixpence for
1777.] AND PROVIDENCE PLANTATIONS. 177
every £1,000 ; and that all male persons, of twenty-one
years of age and upwards, excepting settled ministers of the
gospel, and officers and soldiers in the service of the Conti-
nent, who are enlisted into the Continental battalions, and
those enlisted by this state for fifteen months ; and the offi-
cers, marines and mariners on board any armed vessels in
the service of the Continent, or of this state, shall pay the
poll tax.
Whereas, this Assembly, at the present session, hath made
and passed an act, ordering a tax of £16,000, to be assessed
and levied upon the polls and ratable estates of the inhab-
itants ; and whereas, from the distressed situation of many
parts of this state, it hath been thought necessary to deviate
from the established rule of proportioning the same to the
several towns ; by which deviation it may happen that some
town may be overburthened, —
It is therefore voted and resolved, that the apportionment
of the said act upon the several towns, in the said act made,
shall not be drawn into precedent, or be considered as a rule
for apportioning any future tax, but shall be re-considered ;
that any town, which shall be overburthened, shall be re-
lieved and reimbursed what they shall appear to have paid
over their just proportion, as soon as a proper estimate can
be made to ascertain the same ; and that such towns as
shall have paid less than their just proportion, shall pay
such sums as they shall be deficient, into the general
treasury.
Whereas, Mr. Stephen Bowyer, of North Kingstown, pre-
ferred a petition, and represented unto this Assembly., that
his being obliged to remove off the farm he now improves,
as by a late act he is warned to do, will put him to great
difficulty and distress ; he having a large family to main-
tain, and the season too far advanced to admit of his getting
into business, to support them.
And further represented, that about a twelve-month past,
he being suspected on account of his connections with his
TQL, Tin, 23
178 RECORDS OF THE STATE OF RHODE ISLAND [MARCH,
late landlord, Mr. Rome, publicly made and signed a declar-
ation of his principles, in terms equivalent to the test, with
which his conduct has been perfectly consistent.
And that having, as he presumed, fully answered the in-
tentions of the test-act, he apprehended he had complied
therewith, without conceiving that there was occasion for
his also subscribing the test ; which he is ready to do, if re-
quired ; and thereupon prayed this Assembly to permit him
still to remain upon the said farm, as a tenant to the state ;
on consideration whereof, —
It is voted and resolved, that the prayer of the said Ste-
phen Bowyer, in his aforesaid petition contained, be, and the
same is hereby, granted.
It is voted and resolved, that during the time the enemy
are in possession of the island of Rhode Island, and the
courts of justice, for the county of Newport, are obstructed
thereby, that the inhabitants of the towns of Tiverton and
Little Compton, be, and they are hereby, allowed to bring
forward and prosecute all actions, whether real, personal or
mixed, to the inferior court of common pleas, for the county
of Bristol, in the same way and manner as though the two
towns, aforesaid, were annexed to, and belonged to, the
county of Bristol ; any law, custom or usage, to the con-
trary, in any wise, notwithstanding.
Whereas, Mr. James Robinson laid before this Assembly
an account, wherein he had charged the state for a quantity
of flour, being part of that seized by order of General Var-
num ; which being duly considered, —
It is voted and resolved, that the said flour be released, it
having been previously purchased by Peter Phillips, Esq.,
commissary.
It is voted and resolved, that the commanding officers of
the several companies of volunteers, who engaged in the
service of this state, in consequence of a resolve of this As-
sembly, at the last session, for making an attack on Rhode
Island, make out their abstracts, under oath, and present
1777.] AND PROVIDENCE PLANTATIONS. L79
them to either of the committees of .safety, within this state,
for payment, agreeably to said resolve ; and that this re-
solve be published in the next Providence Gazette.
Whereas, at the June session, A. D. 1776, George Still-
man was appointed captain and Peleg Saunders, lieutenant,
of the third company of militia, in the town of Westerly ;
but by some means or other, said appointment was not re-
corded,—
It is therefore voted and resolved, that said appointment
be now confirmed, and considered as having taken place at
said June session ; and that they be commissioned, ac-
cordingly.
Be it enacted by this General Assembly, and by the au-
thority thereof it is enacted, that the delegates to represent
this state in the Continental Congress, shall be elected and
chosen by the freemen at large, in the same manner as the
Governor and assistants of this state are chosen, to wit :
By the freemen putting in their proxy votes, on the third
Wednesday in April, annually ; and in case any vacancy
shall happen, by death, or otherwise, the General Assembly
shall fill up such vacancy for the remainder of the year.
Whereas, Ray Sands, Esq., was, by this Assembly, at the
September session, 1776, appointed lieutenant colonel of the
second regiment of militia, in the county of Kings, in the
room of Samuel Seager ; and the secretary, by mistake, en-
tered him as chosen colonel ; and a commission was issued,
accordingly ; and Charles Dyer, Esq., who was colonel of the
said regiment, having accepted very soon after, of a com-
mission in a regiment, for three months, upon Rhode Island,
which prevented the mistake from being discovered ; and
the said Ray Sands having, in consequence of his said com-
mission, upon the appearance of the enemy's fleet, and ever
since, acted as colonel of the said regiment ; which error
ought to be rectified ; —
It is voted and resolved, that the thanks of this Assembly
be given to the said Ray Sands, for his spirited and vigilant
conduct, as colonel of the said regiment, aforesaid.
180 RECORDS OF THE STATE OP RHODE ISLAND [MARCH,
That the said Charles Dyer have the command of the
same, during the remainder of the year.
That, from the known zeal of Col. Sands, for the public
good, this Assembly hope and expect that he will act as
lieutenant colonel of the said regiment ; in which case, the
commission granted to Thomas Potter, Esq., will be vacated.
That the secretary forthwith transmit a copy of this vote
to Col. Sands, and the said Thomas Potter, Esq. ; and that
Lieutenant Colonel Sands be commissioned, accordingly.
It is voted and resolved, that Thomas Potter, Esq., be,
and he is hereby, dismissed as a lieutenant colonel in the
militia, he having been appointed, through mistake, to that
office; and that he be dismissed as major; the time of the
enlistment of the regiment to which he was appointed, hav-
ing expired.
Resolved, that each of the three divisions of the militia,
alarm and independent companies, heretofore drafted agree-
ably to a resolve of this Assembly, passed at their session
in December last, be drafted into two divisions each, under
the direction of the field officers of each regiment, or com-
mander of each independent company.
And that those of the militia and alarm companies be
formed into companies, to be commanded by officers pro-
portioned by the said field officers, and assigned to said
companies ; and those of independent companies, be propor-
tioned and assigned to said companies, by officers of the said
companies.
And that the draught of every division, as aforesaid, be
made by the respective field officers, and commanders of
independent companies, on Friday, the 4th day of April next
That immediately upon said drafts being completed, the
field officers, and commanders of said independent compa-
panies, shall cause the one-half of said first division to be
formed into companies, apportion to each their proper offi-
cers, and cause them to march to such part of the shores
within their respective counties as they shall direct, on or
before the 6th day of April next.
1777.] AND PROVIDENCE PLANTATIONS. 181
And it is further resolved, that the division on actual duty,
be relieved at the expiration of fifteen days from their en-
tering on said duty, by the other divisions, in the order
in which they have been, and shall be, drawn out ; and that
the field officers, and commanders, aforesaid, be, and they
are hereby, directed to cause relief to be made, and done
punctually, at the time each division shall have completed
its duty, as aforesaid.
And it is further resolved, that the several commanders
of the respective companies, so drafted, as aforesaid, cause
their several companies to be completely equipped with
arms, and every other necessary accoutrement; and that if
any in said companies, who have been adjudged by the town
council in their respective towns, to be unable to furnish
themselves therewith, shall appear not duly equipped, the
commanders of said companies are directed to apply to said
town councils, who are hereby empowered to furnish them
with arms and accoutrements, agreeably to the aforemen-
tioned resolve.
And it is further resolved, that the officers who shall
serve in said divisions, shall be entitled to, and receive, the
same wages and rations as are allowed and paid to officers
of equal rank in the Continental service ; and that the non-
commissioned officers and privates also receive the same
pay and allowance, for the same and similar service, as those
in the Continental army.
That no adjutants be appointed ; but their duty shall be
done and performed by the sergeant-majors ; and that but
one quartermaster be allowed to a regiment.
And it is further resolved, that each and every person by
law obliged to bear arms, who, when duly notified, and
called out to duty, shall neglect to appear in person, com-
pletely equipped with arms and accoutrements, shall be
liable to pay, as a fine, for each and every day's neglect, the
sum of five shillings, lawful money ; to be levied and col-
lected by warrant or distress, from the captain or other com-
182 RECORDS OF THE STATE OF RHODE ISLAND [MARCH,
manding officer of the company, for the time being, directed
to the clerk, unless the person so deficient, shall, before the
expiration of said fifteen days, pay into the town treasury,
in the town in which he resides, the fines due for his not
appearing, as aforesaid, and shall produce a receipt, there-
for, from said town treasurer, to said captain, or command-
ing officer.
And it is further resolved, that the respective colonels of
militia and alarm companies, and commanders of independ-
ent companies, shall make return of said draught to the
council of war, or to General Spencer, within two days after
said draught is completed ; and if any officer shall neglect
or refuse to do his duty, and make said draught, agreeably
to this act, and make due return, thereof, within the time
prescribed, he shall forfeit and pay as a fine, for such neg-
lect, the sum of £6, lawful money, to be recovered by bill,
plaint or information, before any court of record within this
state.
And it is further resolved, that the secretary transmit
printed copies of this act, by express, to the several colonels
of militia, and commanders of independent and alarm com-
panies, as aforesaid, on or before the 2d clay of April next.
Resolved, that such of the inhabitants of New Shoreham,
on Block Island, and now on the main, as choose to return
to .their homes, have liberty to return, under the inspection
of the commanding officer of the district from whence they
shall depart, until the 10th day of April next; and those
now living in said town, who are desirous to remove to the
main, are permitted so to do, within the time abovesaid ;
after which, all intercourse shall cease between the inhab-
itants of said town and those on the main (saving only
commissioned officers in the Continental battalions, for
the purpose of recruiting), until further orders from this
Assembly.
Whereas, it is recommended by Congress, to pass laws to
prevent the counterfeiting the tickets, issued by Congress,
1777.] AND PROVIDENCE PLANTATIONS. 183
in the present state's lottery ; and for the punishment of
those who who may be convicted of counterfeiting or forg-
ing any such ticket, —
Be it therefore enacted by the General Assembly, and
by the authority thereof it is enacted, that any person or
persons convicted of said crime, be liable to suffer the
pains of death, without the benefit of clergy ; with confisca-
tion of all and singular the real and personal estate of the
offender ; and that the same, when recovered, be paid into
the general treasury, for the use of this state.
An Act in addition to, and amendment of, an act, entitled
" An act to prevent monopolies and oppression, and for
the better supply of our troops," &c.
Be it enacted by this General Assembly, and by the au-
thority thereof it is enacted, that from and after the 10th
day of April next ensuing, the price of farming labor, viz. :
for mowing and reaping in their seasons, shall not exceed
three shillings and sixpence per day ; and in the three
winter months, one shilling and sixpence per day ; and at
all other times of the year, two shillings per clay ; that for
the three summer months, the price of labor by the month,
shall not exceed forty-eight shillings, when found ; and at
all other seasons in the same proportion, compared with day
labor.
That common labor, in the town of Providence, shall not
exceed four shillings and sixpence per day ; they finding
themselves ; and three shillings, when found.
That the price of Indian corn in the towns of Providence,
Bristol, Warren, Tiverton and Little Compton, shall not ex-
ceed four shillings per bushel ; and in the compact part of
the town of East Greenwich, three shillings and ninepence
])er bushel ; and rye five shillings per bushel ; and in all
other places in this state, corn shall not exceed three shil-
lings and sixpence per bushel ; and rye, four shillings and
sixpence per bushel ; meal, at the places where meal has
usually been sold, shall be at a price in proportion, accord-
184 RECORDS OF THE STATE OF RHODE ISLAND [MARCH,
ing to the usual customs ; and good rye and Indian bread,
shall not exceed fourteen shillings for every one hundred
and twelve pounds weight ; and in that proportion, for
every other quantity.
That the price of stone lime shall not exceed at Provi-
dence, $4, per hogshead.
That fresh fish shall not exceed, at the places where they
are caught, one penny one farthing per pound ; in the town
of Providence, twopence half-penny ; and at all other places
within this state, two pence per pound.
That oysters shall not exceed two shillings per bushel, at
market.
That Jamaica spirits, by the gallon, per hogshead, shall
not exceed nine shillings ; the seller finding the cask ; and
by retail, in the same proportion as other West India rum.
That West India rum be sixpence, and New England,,
four pence per gill ; that in case any person shall sell any
of the above spirits under proof, he shall forfeit the value of
the same, to be recovered by bill, plaint or information, in
any court of record within this state.
That oats be fourpence per pottle.
That good merchantable men's shoes shall not exceed
nine shillings per pair.
And that beaver hats shall not be sold for more than
forty-eight shillings apiece.
And be it further enacted, that in case any inhabitant or
inhabitants of any town within this state, more especially
the families of soldiers in the service of their country, shall
be distressed for want of any necessary articles of life, and
Avhich are within their towns, and shall be witheld from sale
by the persons to whom the same belong, to monopolize
and engross the same, upon complaint thereof made to
either of the members of the town council or overseers of
the poor in such town, under oath, he shall certify the same,
and the quantity necessary to relieve such distressed person
or persons, to any justice of the peace within said town ;
who, on receipt thereof, shall issue his warrant to the town
1777.] AND PROVIDENCE PLANTATIONS. 185
sergeant, or either of the constables of said town, authoriz-
ing him, if necessary, to break and enter any store or other
place, and seize out of the hands of such monopolizer and
engrosser, so much as shall be certified to be necessary, as
aforesaid, and deliver the same to such distressed person or
persons, at the stated prices ; and the moneys for which
such articles shall be sold (after deducting all lawful cost
and charges accruing on the process, aforesaid), shall be re-
turned to the owner of the article or articles so seized and
impressed.
And it is further enacted, that so much of the act, afore-
said, as relates to the price of farming labor, Indian corn and
rye, be, and the same is hereby, repealed.
And be it further enacted, that a committee be appointed
by each of the towns within this state, on the third Wednes-
day in April next, to provide necessaries for the families of
soldiers belonging thereto, who shall engage in the public
service within this state, and deliver the same to such fami-
lies at the price affixed by law, without any additional ex-
pense to such soldiers; they lodging with, or remitting
money to such committee, for that purpose.
And be it further enacted, that the above, and foregoing
regulations of the several articles and things be in force,
any law to the contrary, notwithstanding ; and that this act
be published in the next Providence Gazette.
Whereas, this Assembly is informed that $10,000 hath
been received by Mr. Jonathan Hazard, from the deputy
paymaster general of the eastern department, for discharg-
ing the bounties allowed by Congress to the officers and
soldiers who should enlist in the Continental battalions, oi>
dered to be raised by this state ; which hath since been de-
livered by the said Jonathan, to Brigadier General Yarnum,
as appears by his receipt now before this Assembly.
And whereas, a large sum of money hath been advanced
by this state for the purpose, aforesaid, which was to have
been re-paid when money should be received for paying
said bounty from the Continent ; —
vol. viii. 24
186 RECORDS OF THE STATE OF RHODE ISLAND [MARCH,
It is therefore voted and resolved, that Mr. John Brown
be, and he is hereby, requested to apply to General Varnum
for said sum of $10,000, and upon his receiving the same,
that he give his receipt, therefor, and pay it into the gen-
eral treasury.
Whereas, in the distressed situation of this state, attacked
by a powerful detachment of the British army and navy,
His Excellency General Washington ordered to our assist-
ance two generals of distinction in the Continental army ;
previous to which, the General Assembly of this state had
appointed Maj. Francois Lellorquis de Malmedy, a brigadier
general, in the pay and service of this state.
And whereas, since the arrival of the generals, first men-
tioned, considering the very heavy burthen of expense,
which is rapidly increasing upon us, as well as the very
small number of troops in this state to be commanded, it is
incompatible with the dictates of prudence for this state to
continue general officers in pay, at their particular and sep-
arate expense, —
It is therefore voted and resolved, that this Assembly do
hereby dismiss the said Brigadier General Maimed}- from
the service of this state, with a very grateful remembrance
of his abilities, activity and zeal ; and of his unwearied ex-
ertions in the cause of America, in general, and the service
of this state, in particular ; and as a further testimony of
their favorable opinion of General Malmedy's services, —
It is further voted and resolved, that a present be made
him of the sum of .£50, lawful money.
It is further voted and resolved, that the secretary au-
thenticate a copy of this resolve, and deliver the same to
Brigadier General Malmedy, together with the sum of £50,
abovesaicl.
And it is further resolved, that Mr. John Smith be, and
hereby is, directed to settle the wages and rations of Briga-
dier General Malmedy, up to the 10th day of April next,
and pay him what shall be due on that behalf; and that
he also pay the sum of £50 to the secretary, to be pre-
1777.] AND PROVIDENCE PLANTATIONS. 187
sented to General Malmedy, with the copy of his vote of
dismission, above mentioned.
It is voted and resolved, that whenever any business oi*
importance shall make it necessary to call the General As-
sembly, the Governor is hereby required to call the same m
the county where the General Assembly last sat.
Whereas, the test or declaration, ordered to be subscribed,
b}r an act of this Assembly, by the inhabitants of this state,
hath been tendered to many of said inhabitants individually
for subscription, who have refused to subscribe the same, or
or produce a certificate, agreeably to the requisitions of said
act, and have thereby manifested themselves unfriendly to
the liberties of this, and the other United States, —
It is therefore resolved, that said inhabitants who have
refused to subscribe said test, when tendered to them, as
aforesaid, or produce said certificate, be not permitted in
future to subscribe said test, or declaration, without per-
mission first had from this Assembly ; any act to the con-
trary hereof, notwithstanding ; and that this resolve be
published in the next Providence Gazette.
Resolved, that those commissioned officers in the fifteen
months' battalions and train, who have not enlisted, and
shall not enlist, the following number of men, viz. :
A captain, twenty ; a first lieutenant, sixteen ; a second
lieutenant, twelve ; and an ensign, ten men ; and make the
proper returns, thereof, by the 1st day of May next, shall
be dismissed the service.
And it is further resolved, that it be recommended to the
commanding officer on each post, to detain on constant duty
those officers only, who have already completed their enlist-
ments, according to the numbers above mentioned ; and ad-
mit the rest in turn, to recruit within said term, in order
that they may have it in their power to comply with this
resolve ; and it is enjoined upon all, both field officers and
others, to use every endeavor to fill the said regiments by
the said 1st day of May.
It is voted and resolved, that the general election, for the
188
RECORDS OF THE STATE OF RHODE ISLAND [MARCH,
present year, be held at Providence ; that the second session
of the General Assembly, be held at South Kingstown ; the
third, at East Greenwich ; and the fourth session, at Provi-
dence ; and that every session of Assembly, by adjourn-
ment, shall in that manner, be continued in rotation (taking
place by seniority of counties), allowing,-during the time
that the General Assembly cannot be convened upon the
island of Rhode Island, the same number of sessions, by ad-
journment, to the county of Providence, as are allowed to
both the counties of Kings and Kent.
An Act for numbering all persons able to bear arms within
this state.
Be it enacted by this General Assembly, and by the au-
thority thereof it is enacted, that the following persons be
appointed committee men, for the towns to which their
names are respectively ascribed, for the purposes herein-
after mentioned, to wit :
For Providence,
\ Warwick,
" Westerly,
" North Kingstown,
" South Kingstown,
" East Greenwich,
" Jamestown,
" Smithfield,
" Scituate,
" Glocester,
" Charlestown,
" West Greenwich,
" Coventry,
" Exeter,
" Bristol,
" Tiverton,
" Little Compton,
" Warren,
" Cumberland,
Mr. Martin Seamans,
Mr. James Jerauld,
Joseph Crandall, Esq.,
Joseph Coggeshall, Esq.,
Thomas Potter, Esq.,
Benjamin Tillinghast, Esq.,
Benjamin Underwood, Esq.,
Daniel Mo wry, Esq.,
Mr. Joseph Davis,
Captain Asa Kimball,
Joseph Hoxsie, Esq.,
Samuel Hopkins, Jr., Esq.,
Samuel Wall, Esq.,
George Peirce, Esq.,
Daniel Bradford, Esq.,
Walter Cooke, Esq.,
Philip Taylor, Esq.,
William T. Miller, Esq.,
John Dexter, Esq..
1777.] AND PROVIDENCE PLANTATIONS. 18$
For Richmond, Captain Simeon Clarke, Jr.,
" Cranston, Nehemiah Knight, Esq.,
" Hopkinton, Thomas Wells, Esq.,
" Johnston, Richard Eddy, Esq.,
" North Providence, Captain Joseph Olney,
" Barrington, Mr. Henry Bowen.
And be it further enacted by the authority aforesaid, that
the said committees make regular lists or registers of the
names of all male persons inhabiting or residing within
their respective towns :
From sixteen to fifty years of age, whom they shall judge
able to bear arms.
From sixteen to fifty years of age, whom they shall judge
unable to bear arms.
From fifty to sixty, able to bear arms.
From fifty to sixty, not able ; and from sixty, upwards.
That lists be made of those who are transient, or resident
persons, in the same manner ; as also of those belonging
to the towns within this state, in the possession of the ene-
my ; of negroes and Indians, in the same manner ; and also
of those who have taken the affirmation, or produced cer-
tificates from the Friends' Meeting, to excuse them from
military duty ; as also, of those who have enlisted into the
Continental battalions, and into the service of this state for
fifteen months ; setting forth the names of all the persons
numbered in separate counties.
And after the lists, aforesaid, are made, the said commit-
tees shall make oath, before some magistrate, or justice of
the peace, that the same hath been justly and truly made,
according to the best of the knowledge of such committee
man ; and said lists, so made and sworn to, shall be returned
by the said committees to the General Assembly, at their
next session, to be holden at South Kingstown, on the 17th
day of April next.
And be it further enacted, that in case either of the said
committees shall refuse to serve, that either of the deputies
190 RECORDS OF THE STATE OF RHODE ISLAND [MARCH,
of such town where such committee resides, be empowered
to appoint other suitable persons in their places.
And it is also enacted, that the commanding officers of
the two Continental battalions raised by this state, and of the
two regiments and train of artillery enlisted by this state,
for fifteen months, be requested to make return to the Gen-
eral Assembly, on the said 17th day of April next, of the sol-
diers they shall have then enlisted, with the towns to which
said soldiers belong, in order that the General Assembly
may then know the strentgh of the state.
And it is farther enacted, that the secretary, as soon as
may be, furnish the said committees with copies of this act,
and with blank columns, for the purposes aforesaid.
Voted and resolved, that the following accounts be paid
out of the general treasury, viz. :
Bills Ordered to be Paid.
.£ s. d.
Nathan Miller, for sundry supplies for the troops stationed at Bristol. ..... 103 11 04
Cromel Child, for sundry materials by him furnished for, and labor done
on, the flat-bottomed boats 58 00 04
William Cozzens, for making a number of tents for the state ; and for twine
furnished for making the same 82 14 00
Colonel John Low, for victualling a number of soldiers ; and for six days'
service in the militia 5 02 00
Dr. Caleb Fisk, for attendance upon, and sundry nledicines by him admin-
istered to, two sick soldiers 3 02 04
Dr. Caleb Fisk, for medicines by him administered to, and attendance on,
sundry sick soldiers, in the Continental service 4 19 11
Mrs. Fear Read, for victualling sundry soldiers, belonging to Capt. James
Williams's company , 1 10 00
Mrs. Mary Franklin, for billeting a number of soldiers belonging to Capt.
James Albro's company i . . t 18 02 07
Mrs. Mary Franklin, for the ferriages of a number of soldiers 3 15 04
Executors to the estate of John Waterman, for writing paper and paste-
boards, for printing the last emission of paper money 36 01 00
Edward Carr, on account of damages done by the soldiers to his house on
the island of Conannicut 6 02 00
Stephen Jenckes, in addition to the £12, heretofore allowed for a gun, pur-
chased of him, for a present to the Oneida Chiefs 3 00 00
Isaac R. Bliven, for medicines for, and attendance on, a soldier, belonging
to Captain Ethan Clarke's company , 1 11 10
Jesse Knight, for the hire of his mare, to draw artillery 3 00 00
John Hawkins, for his time and expenses in apprehending Ebenezer and
Charles Slocum, and Jonathan Lawton 4 18 11
1777.]
AND PROVIDENCE PLANTATIONS. 191
£ s. d.
Silas Downer, for eleven days' attendance on the council of war, as clerk. 6 12 00
Josiah Arnold, for damage done by the soldiers to his house, furniture and
stock, on the island of Conannicut 41 10 0£
James Brown, for entertaining a company of soldiers ; for keeping one
yoke of oxen and horse, and for wood burnt by the said company 2 03 03
William Vincent, for twenty-four days' service, in attending the sick of
Col. Noyes's regiment; for his board, horse keeping, and for medi-
cines provided for said regiment 15 13 03
Benjamin Carr, for damages done to his house, on the island of Conanni-
cut, by the soldiers quartered therein 8 02 04
Joseph Austin, for a cedar boat, oars and sails, taken by Captain Sheldon,
for the service of the state 5 00 00
Nathan Miller, for a whale-boat, taken by order of Colonel Child, for the
use of the troops, when Wallace landed on Prudence 4 10 00
Nicholas Cooke, for a number of narrow axes, delivered for the use of the
state 10 10 00
Robert Carr, for the ferriages of a number of soldiers and their baggage,
and of a number of horses 4 08 07
John Kelly, for the ferriages of a number of soldiers, &c 15 09 04
Thomas Peck, for two blankets, delivered by order of the town council of
Providence, towards equipping the poor of said town 2 08 00
John Carpenter, for one blanket, delivered by order of the town council of
Providence, for equipping the poor of said town 1 04 00
Caleb Harris, for a number of blankets, scabbards and belts for bayonets,
by him purchased, by order of the town council of Johnston, for equip-
ping the poor of said town 12 18 00
Cromel Child, for sundry materials by him furnished for, and labor done
on, the galley Spitfire 42 18 06
Samuel Wall, for four guns with bayonets, and three cartridge-boxes, pur-
chased by order of the town council of Coventry 17 14 00
Robert Sheffield, for his services as an armorer, in the regiments com-
manded by Colonel Joseph Noyes and Colonel Eay Sands 18 11 09
Daniel Rodman, for a quantity of rum, sugar and other necessaries, by him
supplied to the soldiers stationed at South Kingstown 16 19 00
Joseph Clarke, for damages done to his estate on Jamestown, by the troops
stationed there 19 17 00
Joseph Congdon, 3d, for blankets, small arms and sundry other equip-
ments, by him purchased by order of the town council of Charlesfown,
for equipping the poor of said town 18 07 06
Gideon Cornell, for four weeks' board of William Ware 2 08 00
Josias Lyndon, for his expenses to Providence, to attend on the General
Assembly, as clerk to the house of deputies 1 14 00
William Channing, for his expenses at Providence, in attending on this
Assembly, as assistant clerk of the lower house 1 16 00
James Congdon, 3d, for taking two depositions in a complaint exhibited
against Nathan Kinyon, one of the members of this Assembly , . 15 08
Nathaniel Mumford, for his services as one of the standing committee of
audit ,,. 6 0000
Thomas Greene, for his services as one of the standing committee for au-
diting accounts 5 08 00
192 RECORDS OF THE STATE OF RHODE ISLAND [MARCH,
£ s. d.
William Potter, for one cord of walnut wood, by him provided for the use
of the state house in Kings county 18 00
Jeremiah Albro, for his expenses to Westerly, to carry a letter to Mr.
Ethan Clarke, by order of this Assembly ; for his attendance on this
Assembly as waiter, at the present session, and for candles, &c 2 03 09
Ebenezer Tefft, for cleaning the state house, in Kings county, and for his
attendance as a waiter on this Assembly, at the present session 1 14 00
Beriah Brown, Jr., for his services, &c, to convey Ebenezer and Charles
Slocum to Major Clarke, by order of this Assembly 1 04 00
Paris Gardner, for one month's wages as adjutant of Col. Sands's regiment, 6 00 00
Nathan Miller, for ration bills, &c, paid by him to sundry officers 8 00 OS
God save the United States of America,
The Governor of Rhode Island to Gen. WasJungton.
Providence, March 18, 1777.
Sir : — Your Excellency's favors of the 1st and 3d instant, have been duly received,,
and will be laid before the General Assembly, at their meeting, next week.
This state, from its early and continued exertions, hath been greatly exhausted of
arms. Of all those furnished to Continental troops raised by us, and to the great num-
ber of seamen raised for the fleet, none have been returned, excepting from Col. Rich-
mond's battalion, almost all which were lost upon Rhode Island. The invasion of the
.enemy hath also obliged us to put arms into the hands of those poor persons in the mi-
litia, who were not able to purchase.
In this case, we were under the necessity of applying to the Continental agent, in
the Massachusetts, of whom we received eleven hundred and seventy-six, and no-
more; some part of which, hath been delivered out to the militia from that state, who*
came here unarmed. Should these arms be taken from us, it will be impossible to fur-
nish the Continental battalions now raising here ; and I am persuaded the General As-
sembly will wait your further orders before they will be delivered. And when Your
Excellency shall have considered the matter fully, and more especially, that all our
ports have been effectually blocked up ever since the beginning of December, which
hath prevented us from importing any, I have no doubt you will countermand your
order.
We have already given every encoui-agement in our power to men to enlist into the
Continental battalions ; and am sorry to inform you, that there are but about four
hundred enlisted. Nor in the present state of affairs, do I see any prospect of our
being able to complete them. To oppose the enemy at Rhode Island, the states of
New England agreed to keep up an army of six thousand men ; of which, we were to
furnish eighteen hundred. The other states having always fallen short of their
quotas, from eighteen to twenty-five hundred, we have been obliged to keep up be-
tween twenty-five hundred and three thousand. At present, the enemy consist of six
Hessian and two British regiments, making near four thousand men ; and we have not
in the state, but five hundred and fifty-one effective men, besides our own troops.
Your Excellency is sensible that near a quarter part of the state is possession of the
enemy. Besides those enlisted into the Continental battalions, the brigade for fifteen
months consists of about five hundred ; and one-third of all the remaining fencible men
are upon monthly duty, by rotation. I need not add, that this situation creates insu-
perable difficulties.
1777.] AND PROVIDENCE PLANTATIONS. 193
In my next, I will send you the best account I can, of the exchange of prisoners
from this state. Of those sent by us, it will be exact.
Methods are taking by General Varnum, to have the two Continental battalions
raising by this state, inoculated as early as possible. But I cannot think, while so large
a body of the enemy are upon Rhode Island, and we left so defenceless, that Your Ex-
cellency will order them away.
I am, sir, Your Excellency's most obedient, humble servant,
NICHOLAS COOKE,
To His Excellency General Washington.
Proceedings of the General Assembly, held for the State of Rhode
Island and Providence Plantations, at South Kingstown, on
Thursday, the Ylth day of April, 1777.
The Hon. Nicholas Cooke, Governor.
The Hon. William Bradford, Deputy Governor.
Whereas, Mr. Stephen Franklin, Jr., preferred a petition,
and represented unto this Assembly, that yesterday, he laid
before them the reasons why he, his father and mother,
were off Block Island ; and likewise for his and their not
returning before the time limited by act of Assembly for
that purpose, had expired ; and further represented, that
his father has a large family, great part of which are en-
tirely helpless, and depend upon their parents for support ;
and that if they should be detained, the family must conse-
quently suffer ; and thereupon, prayed this Assembly to
grant to him and his parents permission to return home ;
and the premises being duly considered by this Assembly, —
It is voted and resolved, that the prayer of said petition
be, and the same is hereby, granted.
It is voted and resolved, that Jonathan Arnold, Henry Ward
and Daniel Mo wry, Esqs., be, and they are hereby, appointed
a committee to revise, alter and amend an act for the relief
yoh, viii, 25
194 RECORDS OF THE STATE OF RHODE ISLAND [APRIL,
of tender consciences ; and that they report the same to this
Assembly, as soon as may be.
It is voted and resolved, that Col. Joseph Noyes and
Messrs. George Babcock and Enoch Haszard, be a commit-
tee, to receive the stock belonging to the farm lately im-
proved by Mr. Silas Niles ; and that they appraise the
same, and deliver it to Messrs. Stephen Champlin and Job
Watson, to whom said farm hath been leased ; and that said
committee apply to said Niles for an inspection of the lease
he received from Mr. Samuel Sewall, that the quantity of
stock, &c, may be ascertained which was to be delivered by
the said Niles, at the expiration of said lease.
It is voted and resolved, that Joshua Babcock, Esq., be,
and he is hereby, appointed to forward to Westerly, a
quantity of powder, &c, belonging to this state, which is
now on the road.
Whereas, this Assembly, at the last session, empowered
such inhabitants of the town of Newport, as were freemen
thereof, at the time it was taken possession of by the ene-
my, to meet at Providence, on the 16th instant, and choose
deputies to represent the said town ; who accordingly met,
and among others, chose Paul Mumforcl, Esq. ; who having
purchased an estate in Barrington, and removed there, with
his family, is also elected a deputy for the said town of
Barrington ; whereby, a vacancy is made in the deputies of
Newport ; —
It is therefore voted and resolved, that such inhabitants
of the said town of Newport, as were freemen, thereof, at
the time it was taken possession of, as aforesaid, consisting
of a number not less than seven, be empowered to meet to-
gether, at the state house, in Providence, on Tuesday,
the 6th day of May next, at five o'clock, in the afternoon,
to choose another person in the room of the said Paul
Mumford.
It is voted and resolved, that Job Comstock, Esq., be em-
powered, as guardian, to have the oversight of the negroes
lately belonging to George Rome ; and that three-quarter
1777.] AND PROVIDENCE PLANTATIONS. 195
parts of the profits of their labor be paid by the said Job to
the said negroes ; and that the other part be retained by
him, in behalf of the state.
Whereas, Mrs. Sarah Slocum and her family are suspected
of having communicated intelligence, and afforded supplies,
to the enemy, at Newport, —
It is therefore voted and resolved, that Mr. Lodowick Up-
dike be requested and empowered forthwith to remove the
said Mrs. Slocum and her family, from his farm, in North
Kingstown.
That if said Lodowick shall refuse or neglect to remove
them within ten days, the sheriff for the county of Kings
be, and he is hereby, directed to remove them ; and that
she, with her family, reside in such parts on the main, as are
distant not less than two miles from the salt water.
Whereas, the draft of a letter to the speaker of the lower
house of Assembly of the state of Massachusetts Bay, was
laid before this Assembly, and the same being duly con-
sidered,—
It is voted and resolved, that said draft be, and hereby is,
approved ; that a fair cop}', thereof, be made ; and that His
Honor the Governor sign the same, and forward it, im-
mediately.
It is voted and resolved, that Colonel Joseph Noyes be,
and he is hereby, appointed to forward to Westerly, a quan-
tity of powder, &c. belonging to this state, in the room of
Joshua Babcock, Esq., who declines.
It is voted and resolved, that Messrs. Jonathan Arnold,
John Brown and John Smith, be a committee, to determine
what allowances shall be made to the officers and soldiers
that have been, or shall be, wounded in the Continental ser-
vice, agreeably to a resolve of Congress.
It is voted and resolved, that no tax be assessed upon
the inhabitants of the towns now in possession of the ene-
my, and who have removed into other towns, for their per-
sonal estates ; and that they be discharged from any tax al-
196 records of The state of rhode island [April,
ready assessed upon their personal estates, which is not as
yet collected.
It is voted and resolved, that Mr. John Reynolds be, and
he is hereby, empowered to purchase, in either of the New
England states, blankets and cloth, sufficient for making one
thousand suits of clothing for the troops ordered to be raised
within this state ; that he draw money out of the general
treasury, to pay for the same ; and that he make report to
this Assembly, as soon as may be.
It is voted and resolved, that the towns of East Green-
wich, Warwick and Coventry, be permitted to inoculate for
the small pox, under the direction of their respective town
councils ; subject to the same restrictions and provisions, as
heretofore enacted, by this Assembly.
Whereas, His Excellency General Washington hath or-
dered the Continental troops within this state, immediately
to march to join the army in the Jerseys, Avhich renders it
necessary that they should forthwith be furnished with
blankets, &c. ; and whereas, this Assembly is informed, that
Messrs. Nicholas and John Brown have in their possession
about eight hundred blankets, belonging to the Continent, —
It is therefore voted and resolved, that the said Nicholas
and John Brown be, and they are hereby", requested to de-
liver said blankets to Mr. John Smith, for the use of said
troops, that the orders of General Washington may be im-
mediately complied with.
Whereas, Messrs. George Waite Babcock, Joseph Spencer
Taylor, John Slocum and Christopher Pearce, preferred a
petition, and represented unto this Assembly, that having
{he Avelfare of their country at heart, and willing to support
it with their lives ; and having reason to think that the
enemy are determined to make some excursion on the
main, and well knowing that there is not a sufficient num-
ber of men to guard the town of Updike's Newtown, where
there are many persons who are incapable of moving out
with their effects, they have raised a company, consisting at
1777.] AND PROVIDENCE PLANTATIONS* 197
present of thirty-six men, including officers ; and that by a
majority of said company present at Updike's Newtown, on
on the 14th day of April inst,, they were nominated as offi-
cers to said company ; and were requested in their behalf,
to make application to this Assembly, to grant them a
charter, with the same privileges as have been granted to
other independent companies ; and thereupon, the said pe-
titioners prayed this Assembly to grant a charter to the
said company, and commissions to them ; and that they
may be stationed in Updike's Newtown, where they will be
ready to march, completely equipped, to any part of the
shore where the enemy may land ; and the premises being
duly considered, —
It is voted and resolved, that the petitioners, with such
others as shall enlist with them, not exceeding sixty-four
men, exclusive of commissioned officers, be incorporated
into a separate and distinct military company, by the name
of the Newtown Rangers, to be commanded by one captain,
two lieutenants and one ensign.
That they be entitled to the same privileges as have been
heretofore granted by this Assembly to the North Provi-
dence Rangers, and on the same conditions ; and that the
secretary make out a fair copy of the act incorporating the
said North Providence Rangers (mutatis mutandis), to be
signed by His Honor the Governor, and affix the seal of
the state, as a charter for the said company of Newtown
Rangers.
It is voted and resolved, that the first division of the
second draft of the militia, and alarm and independent com-
panies, heretofore drafted agreeably to the resolves of the
Assembly, passed at their session in December and March
last, be formed into companies, as are by said resolves di-
rected ; and that they march to such part of the shores
within their respective counties, as shall be directed by the
commanding officer, on or before the 24th day of this cur-
rent April, properly equipped, to relieve those that are now
198 RECORDS OF THE STATE OE RHODE ISLAND [ApRIL,
upon duty, and there to remain and do duty for fifteen days
from the time they shall actually take the field.
And it is further voted and resolved, for their encourage-
ment to exert themselves in the defence of their country,
that a bounty of ten shillings, lawful money, be allowed to
each non-commissioned officer and soldier of the said first
division of the second draft of the militia, and alarm and
independent companies, who shall do his duty ; and that all
fines which shall be incurred for delinquency, after deduct-
ing the cost and fees for collecting the same, shall be
equally divided among the non-commissioed officers and sol-
diers doing duty, who belong to the same town witli the de-
linquents who shall neglect to do duty.
And it is farther voted and resolved, that in case of
sickness and inability to do duty (which alone shall excuse
any person), it shall be in the power of either of the field
officers of the regiment of the district, to permit such a per-
son to hire a man to do his tour of duty ; and if such sick
and unable person shall be so extremely poor in the judg-
ment of such field officer, as to be unable to hire a person
in his stead, that such field officer be empowered to remit
such poor person's fine.
And it is further voted and resolved, that the other divi-
sions of the independent companies, alarm companies and
militia, so drafted, as aforesaid, relieve said division, agreea-
bly to said resolves ; and that they be entitled to the same
wages and encouragement as are alloAved said division, and
be subject to the same penalties.
And it is further voted and resolved, that copies of these
resolutions be immediately sent by express to the colonels
of the militia and captains of independent companies.
It is voted and resolved, that the lists of the male inhab-
itants within this state, from sixteen years of age, and up-
wards, that have been taken and returned to this Assembly,
agreeably to a resolve passed at the last session, be bound
together, and lodged in the secretary's office.
It is voted and resolved, that for preventing unnecessary
1777.] AND PROVIDENCE PLANTATIONS. 199
expense, when the militia and alarm men of this state, or
any part thereof, are called out to serve in the pay of this
state, or of the United States, no more commissioned and
non-commissioned officers shall be entitled to pa}', than a
proper number in proportion to the privates, that is to
say :
For every company, less than thirty-six privates, one
commissioned officer, one sergeant and one corporal.
For every company of more than thirty-six, and under
fifty privates, two commissioned officers, two sergeants and
two corporals.
For every company of more than fifty, and under sixty-
four privates, three commissioned officers, three sergeants
three corporals ; one drummer and one fifer.
For every company consisting of more than sixty-four
privates, four commissioned officers, four sergeants, four cor-
porals, one drummer and one fifer.
For every battalion of five hundred or more privates,
three field officers.
For every battalion under five hundred, and not less than
three hundred privates, a lieutenant colonel and a major.
For any number of privates, above one hundred and fifty,
and under three hundred, one lieutenant colonel or one
major.
For all regiments consisting of a number not more than
one hundred and fifty privates, the eldest commissioned offi-
cer present, shall take the command of the whole.
That every officer on duty, shall be allowed the same pay
that he is entitled to by his commission.
That to each regiment, consisting of not less than three
hundred privates, pay shall be allowed for one adjutant and
one quartermaster.
That any regiment consisting of less than three hundred
privates, shall not be allowed either an adjutant or quarter-
master, unless they be ordered, and shall actually march out
of this state ; but the common duties of those officers shall
200 RECORDS OF THE STATE OF RHODE ISLAND [APRIL,
be performed, when within the state, by the sergeant-major
and orderly sergeants.
Provided, nevertheless, and it is further voted and re-
solved, that the commanding officer of the Continental
troops within this state, for the time being, have liberty to
call into service all such field officers as he shall deem ne-
cessary for the public service.
And it is further voted and resolved, that the several in-
dependent companies within this state, when called out to
service in the pay of this state, or of the United States, shall
be allowed pay for the same number of officers in propor-
tion to the number of privates, as are in the foregoing re-
solve allowed to militia and alarm men.
Be it enacted by this General Assembly, and by the au-
thority thereof it is enacted, that five hundred effective men
be raised by the several towns within this state (excepting
the towns of Newport, Portsmouth, New Shoreham and Mid-
dletown) for filling the Continental battalions raising by
this state, on or before the 10th day of May next; that
they be proportioned to the several towns, according to the
number of polls; and that Messrs. John Northup, John
Brown, Nathaniel Mumford, Sylvester Child, Charles Hol-
den and George Pierce, be a committee to proportion the
same, to the respective towns in the following manner, that
is to say :
The whole number already enlisted, wrho are proper in-
habitants of, or that belong to, the respective towns to
which said men are to be proportioned, be added to the
number of five hundred ; and the proportion be formed
upon that total, giving credit to each town for those already
enlisted from such town.
It is further enacted by the authority aforesaid, that each
town be empowered to give such a sum, over and above
the bounties already allowed, as they can agree for, with
the men enlisting, not exceeding the sum of £22, lawful
money.
That exact accounts be kept of the moneys which shall
1777.] AND PROVIDENCE PLANTATIONS. 201
be expended by each town, as aforesaid, which shall be re-
funded to them, out of the general treasury ; and that no
further sum be given as a bounty by any town, either in
behalf of the state, or at their own expense. f
It is also enacted by the authority aforesaid, that the
persons whose names are set down in the subsequent list,
be appointed and empowered to receive, out of the gen-
eral treasury, the several sums of money assigned to their
names respectively, to advance the bounties allowed by
Congress, and this state, to each soldier ordered to be raised
by their respective towns, to wit :
Karnes of Persons appointed by the General Assembly to advance
the Bounties cdlowed to the Soldiers of the State.
Amount.
Mr. James Arnold, for the town of Providence £792
Colonel Chad Brown, for the town of Glocester 1,628
Brigadier General West, for the town of Scituate 2,024
John Dexter, Esq., for the town of Cumberland 880
Nehemiah Knight, Esq., for the town of Cranston 616
Uriah Alverson, Esq., for the town of Smithfleld 968
Captain Joseph Olney, for the town of North Providence 352
Charles Holden, Esq., for the town of Warwick 1,584
Thomas Tillinghast, Esq., for the town of East Greenwich 1,188
George D}-er, Esq., for the town of West Greenwich 924
Ephraim Westcott, Esq., for the town of Coventry 1,232
Major Sylvester Gardner, for the town North Kingstown 836
Immanuel Case, Esq., for the town of South Kingstown 1,100
Lieutenant Colonel James Babcock, for the town of Westerly 528
Joseph Hoxsie, Esq., for the town of Charlestown 484
Thomas Wells, Esq., for the town of Hopkinton 968
John Chapman, Esq., for the town of Exeter 1,056
Edward Perry, Esq., for the town of Richmond 748
Mr. Stephen Smith, for the town of Bristol 572
Caleb Harris, Esq., for the town of Johnston 572
Colonel Nathan Miller, for the town of Warren , 572
Colonel Nathaniel Martin, for the town of Barrington 352
Perez Richmond, Esq., for the town of Little Compton 792
Benjamin Underwood, Esq., for the town of Jamestown 132
Colonel John Cooke, for the town of Tiverton 1,100
It is also further enacted by the authority aforesaid, that
if any town shall advance the said bounties to any person
enlisted by them, who shall not pass muster, the loss, there-
of, shall be borne by such town.
voi,. vm. 26
202 RECORDS OF THE STATE OF RHODE ISLAND [APRIL,
It is also further enacted by the authority aforesaid, that
every person who shall be enlisted by any town, and lives
in another town, shall be assigned to the town where he
lives or belongs, as part of its proportion ; such town re-
funding the sum paid to such enlisted person to the town
which enlisted him.
It is also further enacted by the authority aforesaid,
that each town in this state, which shall be deficient in
raising its proportion of men, as aforesaid, shall pay as
a fine to, and for the use of, this state, £10, for every
soldier they shall be deficient in ; to be recovered in any of
the courts of record within this state, by the general treasu-
rer, thereof.
It is also further enacted by the authority aforesaid, that
if according to the proportion so to be made, as aforesaid, it
shall appear that any town in this state, shall have furnished
more soldiers who were inhabitants of such town than shall
be thereby reckoned to them, they shall be allowed, and
have credit given to such town, therefor ; and upon enlist-
ing the quota by this act assigned them, including those
that have not been credited for, as aforesaid, they shall
be excused from any fine to which they are liable by
this act, for not raising the number reckoned to them, as
aforesaid.
It is also further enacted by the authority, aforesaid, that
if in the said proportion, any town shall have credit given
for more men, as inhabitants of such town, than they have
actually furnished, such town shall be obliged to make up
the number for which credit shall be erroneously given ;
and in case of neglect, shall be subject to the fine and pen-
alties by this act imposed.
It is also farther enacted by the authority aforesaid, that
the secretary be, and he is hereby, directed to transmit
copies of this act, and also of the act proportioning the men
assigned to the respective towns, to the several town clerks
in this state, to which the men so to be enlisted, are pro-
portioned, within four days after the rising of this Assembly ;
1777.] AND PROVIDENCE PLANTATIONS. 203
and that the said town clerks, excepting the town clerk of
Warren, shall within three days after the receipt thereof,
issue their warrants for convening the inhabitants of their
respective towns, for the purpose of carrying this act into
execution.
Whereas, Messrs. John Brown, Sylvester Child, Nathaniel
Muinford and Thomas Holden, presented unto this Assem-
bly, the following report, to wit :
Report of the Committee appointed to determine the Quota of
Soldiers to be enlisted by each Town in the State.
We, the subscribers, being appointed to apportion to the several towns the number
of soldiers yet remaining to be enlisted in the Continental battalions raising by this
state, in order to make up the number, including those already enlisted, to one thou-
sand men, do report :
That we have made a calculation from the rolls, returned from the several towns,
and after crediting each town with the number of soldiers belonging thereto, which
appears by the returns to have been enlisted, do find the quota yet to be enlisted b}r
each town, to be as foUoweth, to wit :
Providence 18 Westerly 12
Glocester 37 Charlestown 11
Scituate .46 Hopkinton 22
Cumberland 20 Exeter 24
Cranston 14 Richmond 17
Smithfield, 22 Johnston 13
North Providence 8 Bristol 13
Warwick 36 Warren . . 13
East Greenwich 27 Barrington 8
West Greenwich 21 Little Compton 18
Coventry 28 Jamestown 3
North Kingstown 19 Tiverton 25
South Kingstown 25
Captain Lewis's return not being made, we have drawn the proportions, without
making any allowance to any town for what he hath enlisted. •
JOHN BROWN, NATHANIEL MUMFORD,
SYLVESTER CHILD, THOMAS HOLDEN.
And the foregoing report, being duly considered, —
It is voted and resolved, that the same be, and hereby is,
accepted; and that the number of soldiers be raised by
each town according to its proportion therein assigned.
It is voted and resolved, that the act of this Assembly for
paying the members of the General Assembly, during their
204 RECORDS OF THE COLONY OF RHODE ISLAND [APRIL,
attendance on the Assembly, be, and the same is hereby,
repealed.
It is voted and resolved, that William Potter and Daniel
Rodman, Esqs., be empowered to let the lot of land in Point
Judith, lately belonging to Mr. John Borland, deceased, on
the best terms possible, to any person that has, or may
subscribe the test.
An Act in addition to an act, entitled " An act for the relief
of persons of tender consciences ; and for preventing
their being burthened with military duty."
Whereas, the invasion of this, and the other United
States of America, by a powerful enemy, occasions great
distress, and very heavy burthen of expense, upon the in-
habitants ; and whereas, many persons within this state,
possessing property therein, have availed themselves of the
act, aforesaid, and avoided contributing their equal and ne-
cessary proportion for the defence of our rights, privileges
and estates ; and from which they do, and will, derive, in all
respects, equal benefit and protection with other subjects of
this state, not exempted from personal military service ; to
prevent which, and that they shall in future bear their equal
proportion thereof, —
Be it enacted by this General Assembly, and by the au-
thority thereof it is enacted, that the captains of the several
companies of militia and alarm men, in each regiment, shall
make return to their respective colonels, or other command-
ing field officer, of all persons within the district of their
said companies who have taken the affirmation, or produced
certificates from the meeting of Friends, from time to time,
upon any draft being ordered to be made from their said
companies ; which colonel, or other commanding field offi-
cer, shall cause them to be drafted in like manner, and in
proportion to their numbers, as those of the several compa-
nies, aforesaid, shall be ordered to be draughted.
And the said colonel, or other commanding field officer,
1777.] AND PROVIDENCE PLANTATIONS. 205
shall, immediately after such draft, give in a list of all the
persons, so drawn in each town, to the town council of such
town ; and thereupon, such town council shall depute and
appoint one of their members immediately to hire so many
able bodied men as shall equal the number returned, as
aforesaid, and for the same term of time as the persons,
aforesaid, shall be drafted, upon the best terms he can, at
the expense of the persons within their respective towns, so
drafted, as aforesaid ; each person so drafted, to pay the ex-
pense of hiring a person in his room ; which members so
deputed, shall make immediate return of the persons so
hired, to the colonel, or other commanding field officer of
the regiment to which they respectively belong ; and shall,
within two days after such return, give notice, thereof, to
the persons within their respective towns, on whose behalf
they shall so hire them, and of the sums they shall have ad-
vanced therefor, as aforesaid, and request them to pay the
same.
And upon their refusal or neglect, for the space of five
days, to pay the same, the town council of the town where-
in the persons so refusing to pay, reside, and upon notice
thereof, from their member, deputed, as aforesaid, is hereby
empowered and directed to issue a warrant of distress,
signed by their clerk, and directed to the town sergeant, or
any of the constables, of the same town, to seize and distrain
so much of the goods and chattels of the person or persons
refusing or neglecting, as aforesaid, and living in, or belong-
ing to, the same town, as shall be sufficient to pay the sum
advanced to hire persons in their behalf, as aforesaid, and
all lawful costs and fees ; which warrant shall be returnable
into the town clerk's office of the same town, within thirty
days after the date thereof.
And the goods and chattels, seized and distrained, as
aforesaid, shall be sold at public vendue, in the same man-
ner as they are ordered by law to be sold, to satisfy military
fines and forfeitures ; and if any overplus moneys, arising
from the sales of such goods and chattels, as aforesaid, after
206 RECORDS OF THE STATE OF RHODE ISLAND [APRIL,
deducting all lawful demands, shall remain in his hands,
he shall lodge the same with the said town clerk, at
the time he shall return his warrant, as aforesaid, to and for
the use of the person from whom such goods and chattels
shall be distrained.
And it is further enacted by the authority aforesaid, that
in case any person drafted, as aforesaid, shall be under the
age of twenty-one years, and shall not have sufficient goods
and chattels in his possession, whereupon to levy the said
warrant, the officer to whom the same shall be directed, be,
and hereby is, empowered to levy the same upon the goods
and chattels of the parent or guardian of such delinquent
minor, and therewith satisfy and pay all charge of hiring a
person in the room of such minor, and all lawful costs and
charges on that account.
And it is further enacted by the authority, aforesaid, that
for each person hired, as aforesaid, the person hiring him,
shall be allowed six shillings, to be deducted out of the
moneys arising from the sales of the goods and chattels of
the person in whose stead he shall be hired, to be taxed
upon the warrant, with the fees of the clerk, who shall have
one shilling for each warrant by him granted ; and the offi-
cer making the distraint, as aforesaid, shall be allowed ten
per cent, upon the amount of the hire of each person, and
upon the lawful costs, for trouble and his fees in collecting
the same.
And it is further enacted by the authority, aforesaid, that
every officer, whether civil or military, Avho shall refuse or
neglect to comply with the duties required of him by this
act, shall, upon proof and conviction thereof, forfeit and pay
for each offence, £20 ; to be recovered by bill, plaint or in-
formation, in any court of record, within this state, together
with all costs of prosecution and conviction ; one-half of
which shall be paid to the prosecutor, -and the other half
into the general treasury, to, and for, the use of this state,
Provided always, and it is further enacted by the au-
thority aforesaid, that this act shall not extend to times of
1777.] AND PROVIDENCE PLANTATIONS. 207
general alarm, when the whole military force of this state
shall be ordered upon duty together, and at the same time ;
but operate only when detachments or parts of each respec-
tive company, as aforesaid, shall be ordered to be drafted
out or detached for actual service.
And it is further enacted by the authority aforesaid, that
this act shall take place, and be in force within ten days ;
and that the secretary send printed copies, thereof, to each
colonel or commanding field officer of the several regi-
ments of militia in this state, to the several captains of the
companies of the militia and alarm men, and to the several
town clerks within this state, within six days from the rising
of this Assembly.
Both houses being resolved into a grand committee, made
choice of the following officers, viz. :
James Williams, captain, in Colonel Angell's battalion, in
the room of Captain Ephraim Bowen, who declines.
Samuel Hicks, first lieutenant, in Capt. Thomas Arnold's
company, in Colonel Greene's battalion.
It is voted and resolved, that the colonels of the Conti-
nental battalions forthwith make a return of the names of
the men enlisted into their respective battalions, and of the
places of their nativity and residence, at the time of their
enlisting, to the council of war ; and that the said colonels,
and the several town clerks within this state, be immedi-
ately furnished with a copy, hereof.
Whereas, a petition was preferred to the last session of
this Assembly, by Mr. William Hull, requesting to be dis-
charged from a certain bond, in which he became bound for
Mr. Jonathan Haszarcl, paymaster to one of the Continental
battalions, ordered to be raised within this state, for reasons
in said petition set forth ; and whereas, the said Jonathan
Haszard hath represented to this Assembly, that he con-
ceives himself injured by said petition ; as the same con-
tains a misrepresentation of facts, and hath prayed this As-
sembly, that the same may be inquired into ; and that for
that purpose, the said William Hull may be cited to ap-
208 RECORDS OF THE STATE OF RHODE ISLAND [ APRIL,
pear at the next session of this Assembly, to answer to such
questions as may be then proposed to him, respecting the
same, —
It is therefore voted and resolved, that the said William
be cited to attend at the next session of this Assembly, to
be held at Providence, on the first Wednesday of May next,
agreeably to the request of the said Jonathan ; and that the
said William be furnished by the secretary, with a copy of
this resolve.
It is voted and resolved, that nine shillings, lawful money,
be allowed in future to each of the members of the council
of war, who do not reside within the town of Providence ;
and six shillings, to each of the members of said council,
who reside within the town of Providence, for each day's at-
tendance on said council ; any resolve to the contrary,
hereof, notwithstanding.
It is voted and resolved, that the troop be allowed for
themselves, for their service from time to time, the same
Avages as the militia received, who were on duty at the
same time ; that they be allowed two shillings, per day,
each, for their horses ; that they make out their abstracts,
accordingly ; and that the same be paid by either of the
committee of safety, in the county of Providence.
It is voted and resolved, that Messrs. John Brown, Jona-
than Arnold and Daniel Cahoon, Esqs., be a committee,
they, or any two of them, to draft a letter to the marine
committee of the Continental Congress, in answer to their
letter to the council of Avar, of this state, dated the -5th day
of April current, informing them of the present situation of
this state, so far as respects their requisition ; the condition
and situation of the Continental naval department in this
state ; and hoAV far their requisition has been complied
Avith ; and likewise, Iioav far this state hath advised and ex-
erted itself in getting the Continental frigates out of this
state.
It is voted and resolved, that Mr. John BroAvn be ap-
pointed to Avait on the council of the state of Massachusetts
1777.]
AND PROVIDENCE PLANTATIONS.
209
Bay, with the letter received from the marine committee of
Congress, to this state ; and that he advise with them re-
specting the best methods of complying with the requisi-
tion of said committee, and request they will assist us with
men, for that purpose ; and if the said John Brown shall
obtain the request, in that case the council of war of this
state, are fully empowered and requested to exert every
method in their power, to effect the intention of the said
marine committee.
It is voted and resolved, that the persons hereafter
named, be, and they are hereby, appointed to procure, on
the best terms, six blankets each, within their respective
towns, for the use of the Continental troops now under in-
oculation, in the county of Kent, to wit :
Committee appointed by the General Assembly to procure Blankets
for the Soldiers.
For Providence -
" Johnston
" Smithfield -
" Glocester
" Scituate
" Cranston
" Cumberland
" North Providence
" Warwick -
;* Coventry
" East Greenwich -
" West Greenwich
" South Kingstown
" North Kingstown
" Westerly -
" Charlestown -
« Exeter
" Hopkinton
" Richmond -
rOL. vm. 27
Daniel Tillinghast, Esq.,
Caleb Harris, Esq.,
Capt. Andrew Waterman,
Richard Steer, Esq.,
William West, Esq.,
Nehemiah Knight, Esq.,
Elisha Waterman, Esq.,
Joseph Olney, Esq.,
Charles Holden, Esq.,
Ephraini Westcott, Esq.,
Stephen Mumford, Esq.,
Mr. Samuel Hopkins, Jr.,
Immanuel Case, Esq.,
Major Sylvester Gardner,
Colonel Joseph Noyes,
Mr. James Congdon, 3d,
George Pearce, Esq.,
Thomas Wells, Esq.,
Mr. Simeon Clarke. Jr.
210 RECORDS OF THE STATE OF RHODE ISLAND [APRIL,
And it is further voted and resolved, that they deliver
said blankets, and present their accounts for the same, to
either of the committees of safety in the counties of Provi-
dence, Kings and Kent, within three days from the rising
of this Assembly ; and the said committee of safety are di-
rected to discharge said accounts, and forward said blankets
to the hospitals in which said troops are inoculated.
It is voted and resolved, that the company of Newtown
Rangers forthwith embody themselves into a company,
agreeably to a resolve of this Assembly, and immediately
take the field, and do duty with the militia.
Voted and resolved, that the following accounts be paid
out of the general treasury, viz. :
Bills Ordered to be Paid.
£ s. d.
Azariah Crandall, for a gun, bayonet and cartouch box, delivered into the
Continental store 3 12 00
Timothy Larkin, a sick soldier, on duty in this state, for sundry visits
and medicines administered to him during his sickness 1 01 00
Benjamin West, for his expenses in taking up Jacob Parker, a deserter,
and delivering him to Oliver Clarke, captain in one of the Continental
battalions 1 04 00
William Johnston, a negro, who came from Rhode Island, and brought off
a cedar boat 4 10 00
Henry Reynolds, for his horse-hire, &c, in going to Mr. Lodowick Up-
dike's, on public business, by order of the General Assembly 10 00
John Davis, for making ninety-three tents ; and for thirty -one pounds of
twine 62 00 00
John Jenckes, for the board of a negro man, that formerly belonged to
George Rome ; and for a pair of shoes, and tow-cloth, for a shirt, by
him provided for said negro man 9 09 03
Stephen Harding, for the use of his horse, by General Malmedy, in view-
ing the shores at Bristol Ferry, &c 1 04 00
Oliver Eddy, for a small arm, delivered by him into the store at Prospect
Hill, for the use of the Continent 3 12 00
Edward Perry, president of the town council of Richmond, for a number
of guns, bayonets, cartridge-boxes, blankets and knapsacks, by them
furnished for the use of the troops raised as the quota of that town. . . 60 15 00
Paul Allen, as agent for the privateer sloop Independence, for sundry
cannon and warlike stores, taken out of the prize-ship Friendship, for
the use of the state 803 06 07&
John Larkin, for taking possession of a horse belonging to one Jacob
Parker, a soldier, who deserted the service of this state, and selling
the same at public vendue 6 08 06i
1777.] AND PROVIDENCE PLANTATIONS. 211
£ s. d.
Jacob Greene and David Howell, for their time and expenses in going to
Baltimore, in the state of Maryland, to receive the money due to
this state, from the Continental treasury 99 04 02^
William Potter, for half a cord of wood, by him provided for the use of
tlie General Assembly, at their session in South Kingstown, in March
last 09 00
Ebenezer Tefft, for sweeping and cleaning the state house, in Kings
county ; cutting and carrying in wood, and for his attendance on this
Assembly, at the present session 1 06 00
Solomon Tefft, for his attendance on the General Assembly, at the present
session 17 06
Charles Holden, Jr., for his time and expenses in going to Little Rest,
Warwick, and to the Jerseys, as a committee-man, on public business, 38 03 00
John Lassell, for keeping two horses, belonging to the government 19 10 00
Silas Downer, for fourteen days' attendance on the council of war, as their
clerk 8 08 00
William Channing, for his expenses in attending on the General Assem-
bly, at the last session, as assistant clerk of the lower house 3 14 00
Josias Lyndon, for his expenses and attendance on the General Assembly,
at the last session, as clerk of the lower house * 3 09 11
John Carter, for printing the acts of the General Assembly, at the March
session, 1776 ; for printing several acts of the General Assembly, re-
solves of the council of war, and advertisements in the Providence Ga-
zette ; for postage on a number of letters on public service, and divers
other services 59 02 03
God save the United States of America.
General Greene to the Governor of Rhode Island.
Dear Sir : — I am honored with your favor of the 9th of February last, by which I
find my letter of the 23d of January had been laid before the House of Assembly.
I did not write it for public inspection ; I wrote in the style and freedom of one
friend to another. Had I conceived the production was for public inspection, I should
have been more discriminate in my observations ; I wrote to you, sir, as a magistrate
of the state of Rhode Island, and as an inhabitant of the town of Providence. My
letter being considered under those two characters, will speak my intentions and
sentiments.
I am exceeding happy on the receipt of yours, to find my information erroneous, and
my apprehensions and fears in a great degree groundless respecting your departure
from the union, and general plan.
At the time I wrote, upwards of two months had elapsed without receiving a single
line from any person in the state ; various reports were circulating here to the preju-
dice of the policy of New England, the enormous bounty that was given, the effect it
would have upon the other states, the resolutions of your government to raise men for
its own internal defence, neglecting the Continental regiments, were circumstances not
a little alarming to His Excellency. These reports were confirmed by Lieut. Allen, of
Providence, who arrived from that place, much about the same time ; he must have
been totally ignorant of the conditions upon which the troops were raising ; for, I con-
ceived them to be for the safety of the state only ; and never knew but that they were
located, until the receipt of your letter.
212 RECORDS OF THE STATE OF RHODE ISLAM) [APRIL,
I hope the house will pardon the freedom with which I delivered my sentiments,
when I assure them that it was from a full persuasion that the reports were true ; and
that the measure was calculated to fix a lasting disgrace upon the legislators. I have
felt no small share of unhappiness in remaining so long ignorant of the true history of
your proceedings ; for notwithstanding I am not answerable for any misconduct in
legislation, I cnnnot help feeling myself wounded, when anything transpires* to the
prejudice of the state; and you may rest assured, sir, the language of my letter was a
true transcript of people's sentiments and opinions, respecting your political transac-
tions. If the love for my native place, and zeal for the cause, hath led me to a too
hasty animadversion upon [your] administration, it hath arisen from a strong desire to
correct the evil before it was rendered incurable.
I can assure you, sir, there are few persons that feel more sensibly for your state,
than myself ; and none that will go farther to serve it. But if you consider the critical
situation of the American affairs, the importance of adhering to the general plan, the
short time we had to prepare for the ensuing campaign, the fatal consequences that
might result from an unreasonable delay, to myself, the army, and to the cause in
general, you cannot be surprised to find my fears and apprehensions alarmed at the
disagreeable situation tilings were reported to be in.
I was sensible, sir, of your distress ; I felt for the inhabitants ; the calamities the peo-
ple suffered here, was a lively picture of what you had to expect there. Had I known
the governmental regiments differed from the Continental only in point of time, I
should have been silent upon the occasion ; notwithstanding the policy does not cor-
respond with my sentiments. If the enemy had intended to penetrate into the
country immediately on their arrival, no new levies could have been raised sea-
sonably ; if they did not, then the Continental regiments might have been as easily
completed as any others.
I feel a singular pleasure in hearing His Excellency General Washington continues
in such high estimation among you. The strictures that were made on the General's
conduct, by some of the inhabitants of Providence, gave me great uneasiness ; if a
character so important, so truly worthy, is not shielded from calumny and reproach,
what have lesser ones to expect ?
Lieutenant Allen is the author, and from the character he bears, I make no doubt
of its truth ; but had I conceived my letter was for the inspection of the General As-
sembly, I should not have troubled the house with such out-of-door politics.
I receive with peculiar attention your congratulation, and hearty wishes for the suc-
cess of the American arms. I hope, if Heaven continues to smile upon us, and the
respective states furnish their proportion of men, to exterminate from this land of
liberty, those hostile invaders of human happiness and the rights of mankind.
Believe me to be, sir, with sentiments of regard,
Your most obedient and very humble servant,
N. GREENE.
To the Honorable Nicholas Cooke, Esq.
Gen. Washington to the Governor of Rhode Island.
Morristown, 3d April, 1777.
Sir : — The late ample arrivals of arms at Philadelphia and at Portsmouth, added to
those we before had, puts me out of all further uneasiness on account of that neces-
sary article. The eleven hundred and seventy-six stands, which you received from
the Continental agent at Boston, will be very near the number wanted for your
two Continental battalions, when complete ; and I desire that they may be carefully
1777.]
AND PROVIDENCE PLANTATIONS. 213
collected from the militia, to whom any part of them were lent, and applied to that
purpose.
The effects of granting extravagant bounties, and of raising bodies of men upon colo"
nial establishments, now appear, from the returns of the low state of your Continental
battalions.
From the first cause, the men are taught to set a price upon themselves, and refuse
to turn out, except that price be paid ; and I am informed in some instances, in Massa-
chusetts, .£1CX), lawful money, per man, have been paid. It is also evident, that the
raising of the colonial brigade for fifteen months, retards the Continental enlistments ;
for General Spencer, in a letter of the 'JGtli of March, writes to me, that the first has
five hundred men, and the last but three hundred and eighty; about half of whom,
have had the small pox ; and he adds, that General Varnum was only then preparing
hospitals for the inoculation of the remainder. Strange that this should have been
neglected so long, when my orders were given to him on the 3d of March, to provide
quarters, and to inoculate immediately.
You certainly overrate the number of men upon Rhode Island, if they consist of
only six Hessian and two British regiments. The Hessian regiments, when they came
out complete, did not exceed six hundred men each ; and the British, two hundred and
fifty each. Now, if they have decreased by casualties in proportion to the other troops
in the British army, they are scarcely more than three thousand ; a number too small
to make any attempt upon the main. I am convinced, from every appearance, that
they intend to leave Rhode Island, where they have wintered comfortably, and kept
up a considerable diversion, and join their main body in this state. How I am to op-
pose them, God knows ; for, excepting a few hundred from Jersey, Pennsylvania and
Virginia, I have not yet received a man of the new Continental levies. So far, there-
fore, from being able to consent that your Continental battalions should remain at
home, supposing the enemy should continue upon the island, that I am obliged, in the
most positive terms, to order every man, who has had the small pox, to come immedi-
ately forward ; and those who have not, so soon as they are recovered. I have written
to General Varnum, to the same effect.
As it is my duty to afford equal protection to every part of the continent, you may
be assured, if I thought there was any real danger to be apprehended from the enemy
at Rhode Island, that, instead of drawing the Continental troops from that quarter, I
would add to their numbers. But, when there is every probability of their coming
away, and, supposing they should stay, as the internal strength of the country would
hinder them from setting foot upon the main, I think I am excusable in drawing every
man in the Continental service (excepting those intended for the northern depart-
ment), to this point, to make opposition to the grand army of the enemy, who, unless
they are checked, will, in turn, overrun every state in the Union.
As the safety of the whole confederacy depends upon each state's furnishing the
quota of men allotted to it, I must call upon you in the most pressing manner, to endea-
vor to complete your allotment by the usual methods ; but. if your men will not turn
out voluntarily, notwithstanding the great encouragement given by the state, I beg
you will, if your powers are adequate, insist upon each district's furnishing a certain
number, as they have done in Massachusetts. If neither of these modes can be fallen
upon, to good effect, we may as well give up the cause.
I have the honor to be, &c,
GEO. WASHINGTON.
To Governor Cooke, Rhode Island.
214 RECORDS OF THE STATE OF RHODE ISLAND [APRIL.
The Marine Committee of Congress, to the Council of War of the
State of Rhode Island.
Philadelphia, April 5th, 1777.
Gentlemen : — We have ordered the frigates in the state of Rhode Island, &c., out on
a cruise ; and as it seems they are not fully manned, we earnestly request your assist-
ance, that they may be manned with the utmost expedition.
It they cannot be fully and expeditiously manned in your state, we desire that you
would order drafts to be made from the militia, of men best acquainted with the sea, to
assist in carrying them to Boston, where they may avoid a blockade, and procure sea-
men. Such of the soldiers who may be put on board the frigates, to be discharged,
that they may return and join their respective companies, as may not choose to enlist
in the sea service.
We have addressed ourselves to you, gentlemen, on a supposition that you are in-
vested with powers sufficient to enable you to comply with our request, if it should be
necessary to draught from the militia ; and that the General Assembly may not be
sitting, when this reaches you. If the Assembly should be sitting, when you receive
this, and you are incompetent to the business, please to lay this letter before them ;
otherwise, we hope that you will execute it ; for, by doing it, you will render an es-
sential service to the common cause, and greatly oblige —
Gentlemen, your most obedient, humble servants,
ROB'T MORRIS, JOHN HANCOCK,
ABRA. CLARK, WM. WHIPPLE,
THOS. BURKE, RICHARD HENRY LEE,
WILLIAM ELLERY.
General Spencer to the Governor of Rhode Island.
Providence, 7th April, 1777.
Sir > — As I think this part of the country is in great danger of being soon ravaged
by the enemy (the army here being so very weak), I therefore imagine myself bound
in duty to make this further application to your state for immediate succor.
The Continental troops of this state are positively ordered to the westward, by Gen.
Washington ; they will all march to-morrow, except those ordered to the hospital, to
take the small pox. The whole troops now in this army, by the returns, does not exceed
fourteen hundred men, and they are necessarily very much scattered. The enemy at
Rhode Island are without doubt four thousand strong. This is confirmed fully by the
intelligence we have, it would be too troublesome to relate the particular evidence.
The report in a late Providence papers, that the enemy at Rhode Island amounted
to but twenty-two hundred, ought never to have had any credit given to it; and it
never had, by any gentlemen who were fully acquainted with the general intelligence
from Rhode Island; that information was given byoneLawton, whocame off from the
island, who has since been strongly suspected of inimical designs, and was accordingly
confined ; and since his confinement has confessed that he came off at the desire of the
enemy.
By the late accounts we have, the enemy have determined on making a descent on
the main very soon, to get fresh provisions ; but how that may be, I cannot say. But
it is very certain, that the neglect of the several states to keep a proper army up in
1777.]
AND PROVIDENCE PLANTATIONS. 215
these parts, to prevent their excursions, is extremely dangerous to the country, and af-
fords a very great temptation to the enemy to lay some parts of the country waste.
I hope, sir, from these representations, which Your Honor may depend upon, your
state will send with the utmost dispatch some assistance to this army.
I am, &c, JOS. SPENCER.
To Governor Cooke.
The Governor of Rhode Island to Gen. Washington.
Providence, April 14th, 1777.
Sir : — Your Excellency's favors of the 14th ult. and 3d instant, are now before me.
In pursuance of your recommendation, Mr. Hutchinson and Governor Shirley's son
are permitted to go to Rhode Island. I have made inquiry after the mulatto lad
Thomas Kogesson, but can as yet gain no account that is perfectly satisfactory. I be-
lieve he was brought into this place, and very soon after sailed for , under the
care of Captain . Thus far it may be relied upon, that he never was sold, or
treated as a slave.
Captain William Chace, who commanded the privateer that took Mr. Hutchinson
and Master Shirley, had the great misfortune of having his son, Mr. John Chace, who
was master of the sloop , captivated by the Mercury, and carried into Hali-
fax, in irons, about a year ago, where he was cruelly treated ; of which Captain Chace
had intelligence before he sailed upon his craise.
When he took the prize in which Mr. Hutchinson and Master Shirley were passen-
gers, he carried them on board his privateer, with the sole view of making them in-
strumental in procuring the release of his son, who is still a prisoner, and it is thought
on board the Mercury. I have now to request Your Excellency to apply to Lord
Howe, to give immediate orders for Capt. Chace's discharge. Allow me to beg the
favor of a particular attention to this matter, and that you will inform me of
the application and its success, which will give great satisfaction to a respectable
family.
Injustice to General Varnum, I think myself obliged to inform Your Excellency,
that when j-our orders arrived for inoculating our two Continental battalions, we had
an expedition on foot to Rhode Island, which was to have been made in two or three
days ; and it was thought absolutely necessary by General Spencer and the council of
war here, that those troops should be made use of in that attempt. When it was
given up, the greatest part of the militia from Connecticut and the Massachusetts,
whose time was expired, returned home, and left our shores so naked, that we could
scarcely keep up the necessary guards to prevent the enemy from having a free com-
munication with the main land. This again obliged us to make use of our two Conti-
nental battalions for immediate security.
When I wrote you on the 18th ult., that the enemy upon Rhode Island consisted of
six Hessian and two British regiments, I was led into that mistake by a man who pre-
tended to have made his escape from Rhode Island, but hath since confessed that he
was sent off by the enemy. However, the accounts we have from several intelligent
and observant people, agree that their number amounts to full four thousand.
The General Assembly at the last session ordered exact returns to be made of all
the men in the several districts in the state, able to bear arms ; and will meet on the
16th instant, to take the most effectual methods for completing our Continental
battalions. I am, sir, Your Excellency's most obedient, humble servant,
NICHOLAS COOKE.
To His Excellency General Washington,
216 RECORDS OF THE STATE OP RHODE ISLAND [APRIL,
The Governor of Rhode Island to Gen. Greene.
Providence, April 15th, 1777.
Dear Sir : — I am favored with yours of the 6th ultimo. I am extremely sorry that
the groundless misrepresentations of the sentiments and public discourse of the people
here, hath had so great weight with you.
The Council thought it their duty to send for, and examine Mr. Allen. He tells us
that he informed you that he had heard nothing to the prejudice of the generals from
any persons of note, in this place ; but only mentioned to you some idle talk of Mr.
Man, and some other persons, of much less consequence.
The Council were convinced that he might have given you very different intelli-
gence, from the representation he made to us of it. Upon the whole, I beg you to rest
assured, that General Washington and yourself are at present very high in the estima-
tion of all respectable people in this state.
I am, with sentiments of esteem and regard, dear sir,
Your most obedient, humble servant,
NICHOLAS COOKE.
To the Honorable Major General Greene.
John Hancock, President of the Continental Congress, to the General
Assembly of Rhode Island.
Philadelphia, April lGth, 1777.
Gentlemen : — The enclosed resolves of Congress, I am commanded to transmit to-
you, and most earnestly to call upon you to exert yourselves to carry the same into
execution.
In the present situation of the British army, it is much to be wished that an attack
could be made upon the enemy in )"our state, which, whatever success may attend it,
would at least cause a diversion of their forces in New Jersey, if it could be speedily
undertaken.
Agreeably to the enclosed resolves, I have written to the states of Massachusetts
Bay and Connecticut, to afford you all the assistance in their power, in executing this
important service. I have the honor to be, gentlemen,
Your most obedient, and very humble servant,
JOHN HANCOCK, President.
To the Honorable the Assembly of the state of Rhode Island.
Resolves of the Continental Congress relative to a proposed attack
on the British forces stationed upon the Island of Rhode Island.
In Congress, April 16th, 1777.
Resolved, that it be recommended to the General Assembly of the state of Rhode
Island and Providence Plantations, to collect with the utmost dispatch the whole force
thereof; and therewith, aided by such parts of the militia of Massachusetts Bay and
Connecticut, as are contiguous to the said state, to attack and destroy the enemy on
the island of Rhode Island, aforesaid.
Resolved, that it be, and hereby it is, recommended to the states of Massachusetts
Bay and Connecticut to give eyery assistance in their power, by calling out the militia
1777.]
AND PROVIDENCE PLANTATIONS. 217
of their respective towns, which lie next to the state of Rhode Island, &c, and to pro-
mote and execute this most important service.
Resolved, that General Washington be directed to appoint such general officers as
he shall judge proper to carry the foregoing resolutions into effect.
Resolved, that a copy of the foregoing resolutions be sent by express to General
Washington and the three New England states.
By order of Congress : JOHN HANCOCK, President.
[circular.]
The enclosed printed resolves of Congress, I am commanded to transmit, and to
entreat your compliance therewith, as far as they rospect your state. They are so
very explicit, and at the same time so very important, that I need not enlarge.
Give me leave just to observe, that upon their faithful execution at this critical
period, the liberty and happiness of our country absolutely depend.
I have the honor to be your most humble servant,
JOHN HANCOCK, President.
To the Hon. Assembly of Rhode Island.
The Governor of Rhode Island to the Speaker of the General As-
sembly of Massachusetts.
South Kingstown, April 20th, 1777.
Sir : — The embargo laid upon privateering, in the respective New England states,
originated from the necessity of immediately completing the Continental battalions,
This state, invariably adhering to that measure, expected to derive the benefits result-
ing from it. Nevertheless, a very considerable number of their inhabitants have lately
entered on board armed vessels in your state, which are either private property, or
that belonging to the state. We are therefore extremeh- unhappy in laying under so
great a disadvantage, without deriving a single benefit.
The Continental Congress have wisely ordered the respective states not to recruit
from each other. For the same reason, I am requested by the General Assembly of
this state, to desire your state to take immediate and effectual measures for remanding
those men who have alreadj' entered on board the vessels before mentioned, and to
prevent such practice in future. I am, sir, your very obedient servant,
NICHOLAS COOKE,
To the Speaker of Massachusetts State.
vol. vni. 28
218
RECORDS OF THE STATE OF RHODE ISLAND
[May,
Proceedings of the General Assembly, held for ihe State of Rhode
Island and, Providence Plantations, at Providenee, on the first
Wednesday in May, 1777.
The following named officers, declared elected, were duly
engaged :
The Hon. Nicholas Cooke, Governor.
The Hon. William Bradford, Deputy Governor.
ASSISTANTS.
John Collins, Esq.,
John Tanner, Esq.,
Ambrose Page, Esq.,
John Sayles, Jr., Esq.,
Daniel Cahoon, Esq.,
James Arnold, Jr., Esq.
Josiah Arnold, Esq.,
Peter Phillips, Esq.,
William Potter, Esq,,
Pardon Grey, Esq.
DEPF
Newport,
Henry Ward, Esq.,
Col. Joseph Belcher,
Christopher Ellery, Esq.,
Mr. Caleb Gardner,
Mr. Thomas Rumreill,
Mr, William Borden.
Providence.
Jonathan Arnold, Esq.,
Mr. John Brown,
Mr. John Smith,
Mr. William Rhodes.
Portsmouth.
Capt. David Gifford,
rips,
Warwick.
Mr. James Rhodes,
Mr. Benjamin Arnold. J
Mr. Thomas Rice, Jr.
Westerly.
Mr. Thomas Ross,
James Babcock, Esq.
North Kingstown.
John Xorthup, Esq.,
Sylvester Gardner, Esq.
South Kinc/stoam.
Immanuel Case, Esq,,
Mr. Enoch Haszard,
1777.]
AND PROVIDENCE PLANTATIONS.
219
DEPU
East Greenwich.
Job Comstock, Esq.,
Rufus Spencer, Esq.
Jamestown.
Capt. Samuel Carr,
Benjamin Underwood J]sq.
Smithfield.
Samuel Winsor, Esq.
Scituate.
Job Randall, Esq.,
Timothy Hopkins, Esq.
Glocester.
Mr. John Smith, Jr.,
Mr. Stephen Winsor.
Charlestoivn.
Col. Gideon Hoxsie,
Mr. Robert Congdon.
West Greenwich.
Benjamin Tillinghast, Esq..
Mr. Elisha Greene.
Coventry.
Ephraim Westeott, Esq.,
Mr. John Greene.
Exeter.
John Chapman. Esq..
Daniel Sunderland, Esq.
Bristol
Nathaniel Fales. Esq..
Mr. Stephen Smith.
TIES.
Tiverton.
Mr. Isaac Manchester,
William Cooke, Esq.
Little Compton.
Nathaniel Searle, Jr., Esq.
Warren.
Mr. Cromel Child,
Col. Sylvester Child.
Cumberland.
Thomas Angell. Esq..
Col. George Peck.
Richmond.
Major Richard Bailey*
Mr. Joseph Woodmansie, Jr.
Oranstoii.
Col. Christopher Lippitt.
Mr. Nehemiah Rhodes.
Hopkinton.
Thomas Wells, Esq.,
Mr. Edward Wells.
Johnston.
Mr. Noah Mathewson,
Mr. Ebenezer Sprague.
North Providence.
Joseph Olney, Esq.,
Esek Hopkins, Esq.
Barrington.
Paul Mumford, Esq.,
Peleg Heath, Esq.
The Hon. William Greene, speaker ; Josias Lyndon, clerk.
Henry Ward, Esq., secretary.
William Channing, Esq., attorney general.
Joseph Clarke, Esq., general treasurer.
220 RECORDS OF THE STATE OF RHODE ISLAND [May.
DELEGATES TO REPRESENT THE STATE IN CONGRESS,
The Hon. Stephen Hopkins, Esq.,
The Hon. William Ellery, Esq.,
The Hon. Henry Marchant, Esq.
JUSTICES OF THE SUPERIOR COURT.
William Greene, Esq., chief; Shearjashub Bourn, Esq.,
second ; Jabez Bowen, Esq., third ; Thomas Wells, Esq.,
fourth ; and Perez Richmond, Esq., fifth.
JUSTICES OF THE COURT OF COMMON PLEAS, FOR NEWPORT COUNTY.
Benjamin Underwood, Esq., chief justice of the inferior
court of common pleas, and general sessions of the peace,
within and for the county of Newport ; Christopher Ellery,
Esq., second ; John Coddington, Esq., third ; Walter Cooke,
Esq., fourth ; Philip Taylor, Esq., fifth.
JUSTICES OF THE COURT OF COMMON PLEAS, FOR PROVIDENCE COUNTY.
Thomas Greene, Esq., chief; Richard Steere, Esq., second ;
Rufus Hopkins, Esq., third ; Jeremiah Whipple, Esq., fourth ;
and Daniel Mowry, Jr., Esq., fifth.
JUSTICES OF THE COURT OF COMMON PLEAS, FOR KINGS COUNTY.
William Potter, Esq., chief; John Northup, Esq., second;
Carder Hazard, Esq., third ; Joseph Hoxsie, Esq., fourth ;
and Immanuel Case, Esq., fifth.
JUSTICES OF THE COURT OF COMMON PLEAS, FOR BRISTOL COUNTY.
Nathaniel Fales, Esq., chief; John Child, Esq., second;
Joseph Reynolds, Esq., third ; Josiah Humphreys, Esq.?
fourth ; and Paul Mumford, Esq., fifth.
1777.] AND PROVIDENCE PLANTATIONS. 221
JUSTICES OF THE COURT OF COMMON PLEAS, FOR KENT COUNTY.
Philip Greene, Esq., chief; James Arnold, Jr., Esq., sec-
ond ; Gideon Muinford, Esq., third ; John Low, Esq., fourth ;
Benjamin Tillinghast, Esq., fifth.
JUDGE OF THE COURT OF ADMIRALTY.
John Foster, Esq., judge of the court erected for the trial
of maritime causes, in and throughout the state.
SHERIFFS OF THE SEVERAL COUNTIES.
Newport county. Bristol county.
Jabez Champlin, Esq. Richard Smith, Esq.
Providence county. Kent county.
Theodore Foster, Esq. John Reynolds, Esq.
Kings county.
Beriah Brown, Esq.
FIELD OFFICERS FOR THE STATE, IN THE SEVERAL COUNTIES.
Jabez Bowen, Esq., colonel of the first regiment of militia,
in the county of Providence. '
Nathan Miller, Esq., colonel of the regiment of militia, in
the county of Bristol.
John Waterman, Esq., colonel of the first regiment of mi-
litia, in the county of Kent.
John Cooke, Esq., colonel of the second regiment of mi-
litia, in the county of Newport.
Chad Brown, Esq., colonel of the second regiment of mi-
litia, in the county of Providence,
Charles Dyer, Esq., colonel of the second regiment of mi-
litia, in the county of Kings.
Nathaniel Brown, Esq., colonel of the second regiment of
militia, in the county of Kent.
William West, Esq., colonel of the third regiment of mi-
litia, in the county of Providence.
222 RECORDS OF THE STATE OF RHODE ISLAND [May.
Amos Atwell, Esq., lieutenant colonel of the first regiment
of militia, in the county of Providence.
Peter Church, Esq., lieutenant colonel of the regiment of
militia, in the county of Bristol
John Low, Esq., lieutenant colonel of the first regiment
of militia, in the county of Kent.
David Hilyard, Esq., lieutenant colonel of the second regi-
ment of militia, in the county of Newport,
Elisha Mowry, Esq., lieutenant colonel of the second regi-
ment of militia, in the county of Providence.
Ray Sands. Esq., lieutenant colonel of the second regiment
of militia, in the county of Kings.
Archibald Kasson, Esq., lieutenant colonel of the second
regiment of militia, in the county of Kent.
John Colwell. Jr., Esq., lieutenant colonel of the third
regiment of militia, in the county of Providence.
John Angell, Esq., son of Stephen, major of the first regi-
ment of militia, in the county of Providence.
Peleg Heath, Esq., major of the regiment of militia, in the
county of Bristol.
Thomas Tillinghast, Esq., major of the first regiment of
militia, in the county of Kent.
Pardon Gray, Esq., major of the second regiment of mi-
litia, m the county of Newport.
George Peck. Esq., major of the second regiment of mi-
litia, in the county of Providence.
Thomas Clarke, Esq., major of the second regiment of mi-
litia, in the county of Kings.
Joseph Knight, Esq., major of the third regiment of mi-
litia, in the county of Providence.
In Council was read the return of the officers chosen to
command the company of Light Infantry, in the town of
Glocester, and is as follows, to wit :
Timothy Wilmarth, Jr.. captain ; David Richmond, first
lieutenant ; Martin Smith, second lieutenant ; Caleb Sheldon,
ensign.
1777.] AND PROVIDENCE PLANTATIONS. 223
Which being considered by the Council, —
It is voted and resolved, that the said officers be, and
hereby are, approved.
It is voted and resolved, that the committee of safety
within this state be, and they are hereby, directed to pay to
any of the soldiers lately in Colonel Lippitt's regiment, in
the Continental service, all such sums of money as shall be
certified by Colonel Lippitt to be due to them for their
wages while in said service, and which through mistake were
not included in the abstracts.
Whereas, the following form of a commission, to be issued
to the delegates appointed to represent this state in Con-
gress, was laid before this Assembly, to wit :
Form of Commission to be given to the Delegates in Congress, from
Rhode Maul.
" By the Honorable Nicholas Cooke, Esq., Governor, Captain-General, Commander-in-
Chief of, and over, the state of Rhode Island and Providence Plantations.
Esq., Greeting
Whereas, by the free vote of the freemen of said state, on the first Wednesday of
May inst,, yon, the said , was elected a delegate to represent the said
state, for one year, in the General Congress of delegates from the thirteen United
States of America, now sitting at Philadelphia, or wherever the same may sit :
I do therefore, in the name of the Governor and Company of the said state, hereby
authorize, empower and commissionate you, the said — , in conjunction
with the other delegates, that are, or may be, elected delegates of the said state, or
separately and alone, in case of the sickness or necessary absence of the other delegates
of said state, to represent the said state in the said General Congress ; and in be-
half thereof, to join witli the delegates from the other states, or the major part of them,
in all such measures as shall be thought best for promoting the defence and welfare of
the said United States, agreeably to the instructions given, or that may be given you,
by the General Assembly.
(liven under my hand and the seal of the said state, at Providence, this
day of , in the year of our Lord one thousand seven hundred and seven y-
seven.
By His Honor's command.
Which being duly considered by this Assembly, —
It is voted and resolved, that the same be, and hereby is,
approved ; and that His Honor the Governor be requested
to issue a commission to the Honorable Stephen Hopkins,
224 RECORDS OF THE STATE OF RHODE ISLAND [May.
William Ellery and Henry Marchant, Esqs., appointed dele-
gates to represent this state in the Most Honorable the Con-
gress of the thirteen United States of America, agreeably to
to the afore mentioned form.
Whereas, by an act of this Assembly, passed at the last
session, five hundred men were proportioned to the several
towns, to be raised on, or before, the 10th clay of May inst,
for filling the Continental battalions raising within this
state, upon the penalty of £10, lawful money, for each sol-
dier said towns shall then be deficient in ; and whereas, it
hath been represented to this Assembly, that the said time
is not sufficient for raising said men, —
It is therefore voted and resolved, that if any of the towns
within this state, who shall not have raised their respective
proportions of said five hundred men, on, or before the said
10th clay of May, and shall raise their said proportions by the
loth day of May inst,, such delinquent town shall be dis-
charged from any fines they may have incurred by their
said deficiency.
And it is farther resolved, that said towns be permitted to
advance such sums of money, in addition to the bounty
and encouragement heretofore allowed, as the}' shall think
proper, for procuring their quotas of said men ; any thing in
said act to the contrary, notwithstanding.
And it is further voted and resolved, that each town in
this state, which shall be deficient in raising its proportion,
as aforesaid, by said loth day of May, shall pay said fine, of
£10, per man, for the use of the state, to be recovered, as is
by said act ordered.
Both houses being resolved into a grand committee, made
choice of the following officers, to wit :
Ebenezer Thompson, Esq., third assistant, in the room of
Ambrose Page, Esq., who declined serving. Engaged.
William West, Esq., seventh assistant, in the room of
Josiah Arnold, Esq., who declined serving. Engaged.
It is voted and resolved, that Henry Marchant, Esq., be
empowered to draw £100, lawful money, out of the
1777.] AND PROVIDENCE PLANTATIONS. 225
general treasury, in addition to what he hath already re-
ceived ; and iliat he account for the same, as a delegate for
this state.
It is voted and resolved, that Messrs. Henry Ward, Na-
thaniel Mumford, Thomas Greene and Gideon Mumford, be,
and they, or the major part of them, are hereby, appointed
a committee to communicate by letter, abstracts of the
public acts of the General Assembly of this state, or ma-
terial parts thereof, immediately upon the rising of every
session, to the delegates of this state, in General Con-
gress ; together with any other matters of a public nature,
that from time to time may arise, which affect either this
state, in particular, or the general cause of the United
States.
Both houses being joined in a grand committee, made
choice of the following officers, to wit :
John Foster, Samuel Chace and James Arnold, Jr., Esqs.,
the grand committee, or state's trustees, for signing bills of
public credit.
The aforesaid John Foster, is chosen and specially ap-
pointed, to take and have the care and charge of the state's
mortgages, and bonds for tenths, and to receive the money
due, and to be due, thereon ; and also to make proper ac-
quittances and discharges upon the mortgages, or otherwise,
when he receives any of the state's money ; and in case of
non-payment, to put in suit the bonds and mortgages of all
such as refuse or neglect to make due payment.
It is voted and resolved, that Pardon Gray, Esq., be em-
powered to draw £1,500, lawful money, out of the general
treasury, to discharge the contracts entered into by him?
when a commissary of this state.
It is voted and resolved, that the committee of safety,
within the town of Providence, be, and they are hereby, em-
powered to receive of Mr. Adam Babcock cloth sufficient for
making six hundred suits of clothes, now in his possession,
belonging to the Continent, for the use of the Continental
battalions, raising within this state,
voi,. mi, 29
226 RECORDS OF THE COLONY OF RHODE ISLAND [MAY,
And the said Adam Babcock having represented to this
Assembly, that he is not authorized to deliver said cloth
without orders from the secret committee, by whom he was
employed to import the same, —
It is therefore voted and resolved, that this Assembly will
indemnify him with the said committee, for delivering said
cloth to said committee of safety, for the purpose, aforesaid.
It is further voted and resolved, that said committee of
safety immediately employ persons to make up said cloth ;
and when made into clothing, that they deliver the same
for the use of said battalions.
This Assembly taking into consideration a resolution of
Congress, of the 14th of April last, recommending it to the
several legislatures of the United States to exempt from
actual service any two of the militia, who shall, within a
limited time, furnish an able-bodied recruit, to serve in any
battalion of the Continental army, for three years, or during
the war, —
Do vote and resolve, and it is voted and resolved, that if
any two men in this state, whether belonging to the militia,
alarm list, or independent companies, in this state, shall, on
or before the 15th day of May inst., enlist and deliver to
any commissioned officer of either of the two Continental
battalions, raising as the quota of this state, an able-bodied,
effective man, to serve in the same, for three years, or
during the war, and who shall pass muster, they shall be
exempted from being drafted for, or doing, duty in any of
the Continental battalions, for, and during the term for
which such able-bodied man shall enlist ; and the person so
enlisted, shall be entitled to, and receive, the whole of the
bounties and allowances granted by Congress and this state,
to persons enlisting into either of the said two battalions.
Provided, nevertheless, that such exemption shall not ex-
tend to excuse any person from doing duty in time of an
alarm, or in case of a draft for the immediate defence of this
state.
It is further voted and resolved, that no persons shall re-
1777.] AND PROVIDENCE PLANTATIONS. 227
ceive the benefit of the aforesaid exemption for any man by
them enlisted, unless at the time of such enlistment, their
names be inserted thereon, and they produce a certificate
from the officer receiving him, that he was really and truly
enlisted upon their account ; and also make oath before a
justice of the peace, that the man by them delivered, was
bona fide enlisted by, and for, them, without any fraud or
'deceit.
And it is further voted and resolved, that a copy of this
act be immediately sent by express to the several town
clerks, in this state.
The return of the choice of officers, to command the in-
dependent company of Kingstown Reds, for the county of
Kings, was read in Council, and is as follows, to wit :
John Weight, captain ; George Tefft, first lieutenant ;
Nathan Taylor, second lieutenant ; Samuel Eldred, ensign.
Which being duly considered, —
It is voted and resolved, that the said officers be, and
they are hereby, approved.
In Council, was read the return of the choice of officers
to command the United Company of the Train of Artillery,
in Providence, and is as follows, to wit :
Daniel Tillinghast. Esq., colonel ; Levi Hall, Esq., lieu-
tenant colonel; Elihu Robinson, major; Robert Taylor,
captain.
Which being considered by the Council, —
It is voted and resolved, that said officers be, and they
are hereby, approved.
Whereas, Messrs. Nathaniel Mumford and Thomas Greene
presented unto this Assembly, the following report, to wit :
Report of the Committee.
In compliance with the orders of this Honorable Assembly, we have examined into
the affair of the two Capt. Simmons's, and from the best information we can collect,
'tis our opinion that the charges in their abstracts, are the same with those of the
other militia round these shores ; only with this difference, that the tour of actually
being on guard in some parts, comes round oftener than once in four days, which we
think was no fault of the captains ; but as the commanding officer thought fifteen men-
228 RECORDS OF THE STATE OF RHODE ISLAND [MaT,
a sufficient guard, he might have lessened the number of men then in service from
sixty to forty -five ; which would have brought their tour of actual duty to once in
three days, or have ordered twenty men on guard at a time, if he thought so many
were necessary.
Upon the whole, it is our opinion, the abstracts are rightly charged, deducting the
rations which have been received by Capt. Gideon Simmons, amounting to .28 8s. 2d.,
and excepting the ration bill exhibited by Capt. George Simmons, to the deputy com-
missary, Pardon Gray, Esq., which is to remain unpaid, which they have agreed to.
Submitted to Your Honors, by your humble servants, —
NATHANIEL MUMFORD,
THOMAS GREENE.
And the said report being duly considered, —
It is voted and resolved, that the same be, and hereby is,
accepted ; provided, that no allowance be demanded from
the state, for fire-wood, during said term of twenty-two
days; and that the above balance of £8 8s. 9cl, lawful
money, be paid by the said Gideon Simmons, into the gen-
eral treasury.
It is voted and resolved, that James Congdon, 3d, one of
the committee of safety, be, and he is hereby, empowered to
draw the sum of £1,500, lawful money, out of the general
treasury.
It is voted and resolved, that all the bread, and forty bar-
rels of the flour (if wanted), lately imported by this^state,
in the sloop Diamond, be delivered to Colonel Daniel Til-
linghast, for the use of the Continental frigates within this
state ; the said Daniel to return an equal quantity of bread
and flour, of the same quality, to this state, as soon as he can
procure the same ; and the said Daniel is hereby requested
immediately to remove the flour and iron imported in said
sloop, to places of safety, within this state.
It is voted and resolved, that Messrs. Christopher Lippitt
Job Randall, James Babcock, Thomas Wells, Christopher
Ellery and Ebenezer Thompson, be a committee to draft a
bill, in addition to, and amendment of, the act for prevent-
ing monopolies, &c. ; and that report be made to this As-
sembly, as soon as may be.
It is voted and resolved, that Mr. John Smith, as one of
1777.] AND PROVIDENCE PLANTATIONS. 229
the committee of safety, be empowered to draw out of the
general treasury, the sum of £1,000, lawful money.
It is voted and resolved, that if any two men, in any of
the towns who have raised, or shall raise, their quota of the
five hundred men, proportioned to the several towns within
this state, shall enlist and deliver an able-bodied, effective
man, agreeably to the resolve of this Assembly, the commit-
tees of safety are directed to pay to the person so enlisted,
the whole of the bounties and allowances allowed by Con-
gress and this state, to persons so enlisting into either of
said two battalions.
It is voted and resolved, that Jacques Pallifer, who has
acted as surgeon's mate, in the regimental hospital, at Bris-
tol, be allowed, after the first month, the pay and rations
heretofore allowed the regimental mates in the Continental
service.
It is voted and resolved, that Mr. Benjamin Tillinghast
be empowered to draw the money allowed the town of
West Greenwich, for paying the bounties to the men pro-
portioned to said town, out of the general treasury.
It is voted and resolved, that William Christophers draw
the pay and rations of an ensign, from the time of his en-
tering into the service of this state.
Both houses being joined in a grand committee, made
choice of the following officers, to wit :
Members of the Council of War, to act in the recess of the General
Assembly, and Officers of the Militia Chosen
The Hon. Nicholas Cooke, Esq., the Hon. William Brad-
ford, Esq., the Hon. Stephen Hopkins, Esq., William Greene,
Esq., John Tanner, Esq., Ebenezer Thompson, Esq., Daniel
Cahoon, Esq., James Arnold, Esq., Henry Ward, Esq., Chris-
topher Ellery, Esq., Christopher Lippitt, Esq., Immanuel
Case, Esq., Thomas Wells, Esq., Cromel Child, Esq., Job
Comstock, Esq.
230 RECORDS OF THE STATE OE RHODE ISLAND [MaY,
Christopher Greene, Esq., colonel of the first Continental
battalion, raising in this state.
Sylvanus Shaw, captain ; and Ebenezer David, chaplain,
in Col. Angell's battalion of Continental troops.
Nathan Olney, first lieutenant in Capt. Shaw's company.
Elijah Hawkins, Jr., and Nathaniel Phillips, ensigns, in
Col. Angell's battalion.
Simon Smith, Luke Greene, Asa Miner, and Israel Stod-
dard, ensigns ; John Cooke, quartermaster ; Peter Turner,
surgeon ; and Charles Thompson, chaplain, in Col. Greene's
battalion.
Joseph Crandall, captain of the row-galley Spitfire.
Martin Seamans, Esq., sheriff in the county of Providence,
in the room of Theodore Foster, Esq., who resigns.
It is voted and resolved, that Mr. Welcome Arnold be
empowered to purchase as much salt, at the stated price, in
the state of Massachusetts Bay, as he can procure, for the
use of this state ; that he send the same into this state ;
and that he be empowered to draw £1,500, lawful money,
out of the general treasury, for the purpose, aforesaid.
It is voted and resolved, that Capt. John Hopkins, or any
one of the commissioned officers of the ship Warren, under
the direction of any justice of the peace, in this state, be
empowered to impress, within this state, a sufficient number
of men for the present cruise, being seamen, transient, for-
eign persons, and not inhabitants of this or any of the
United States, and not enlisted into the service of this
state or the Continent.
That the men so impressed, upon their entering the ship's
books, shall be entitled to, and receive, the same bounties,
wages and allowances, as those already entered on board
the said ship, are entitled to ; and that the several justices of
the peace, when called upon by the said John Hopkins, or any
of his commissioned officers, be, and they are hereby, di-
rected to give every assistance to the above mentioned
service.
1777.] AND PROVIDENCE PLANTATIONS. 231
It is voted and resolved, that any member of the General
Assembly, who shall attend upon the council of war, shall,
in all matters before said council, have an equal vote with
the standing members ; but shall not be entitled to receive
pay for his services.
It is voted and resolved, that His Honor the Deputy Gov-
ernor be empowered to procure a sufficient number of
blankets, to return for some of those received from some of
the inhabitants of the town of Rehoboth, for the use of the
Continental troops, heretofore within this state ; provided,
the persons from whom they were purchased, are dissatis-
fied with receiving pay for the same.
It is voted and resolved, that Mr. John Jenckes or Am-
brose Page, Esq., deliver to Capt. Stephen Winsor, three
hundred weight of powder, with a proportionable quantity
of lead, and paper for cartridges, for the town of Glocester ;
and three hundred weight of powder, and a proportionable
quantity of lead, and paper for cartridges, to General West,
for the town of Scituate ; and one hundred weight of pow-
der, and a proportionable quantity of lead, and paper for
cartridges, to Mr. Edward Wells, for the town of Hopkinton.
This Assembly having passed an act lengthening the time
by which the quota of the Continental battalions ordered to
be raised by the several towns, to the loth of the month;
and1 also passed an act exempting any two persons who
shall enlist a man into either of the said battalions, by the
said time, from certain duties; and that time appearing
to be too short for the great purpose of completing the
levies, —
It is voted and resolved, that the time mentioned in the
said acts, be extended to the 17th day of this instant ; that
the fines mentioned 'in said first mentioned act, in case of
delinquency, shall be then incurred ; and that the several
towns, make exact and particular returns to the General
Assembly, on the first day of the next session.
God save the United States of America,
232 RECORDS OF THE STATE OF RHODE ISLAND [MaY?
Proceedings of the General Assembly, held for the State of Bhode
Island and Providence Plantations, at South Kingstown, on
Monday, the 19th day of May, 1777.
The Hon. Nicholas Cooke, Governor.
The Hon. William Bradford, Deputy Governor.
It is voted and resolved, that Capt. Philip Wilkinson and
his wife, and Capt. Nathan Bull, Margaret Drew, and Wm.
Miller, be permitted to go in a flag of truce, to Newport,
from North Kingstown, under the care of Col. Charles Dyer,
with their wearing apparel, and such articles of household
furniture as the said Charles shall think necessary for the
use of their families.
That the said Philip Wilkinson carry his male servant of
eleven years of age, and his female servants, and no others,
with him, and none of his plate.
That Colonel Dyer take care that they carry no letters
with them, but such as John Northup and Sylvester Gard-
ner, Esqs., shall inspect, and appoint the persons to go in
the vessel ; and that the whole be transacted without any
expense to the state.
It is voted and resolved, that one hundred weight of
powder, and two hundred weight of lead, be delivered, by
Mr. John Jenckes, to each of the towns of Westerly and
South Kingstown ; and two hundred weight of lead to the
town of Richmond.
Whereas, it has been represented to this Assembly, that
Capt. Ebenezer Adams has disposed of a gun, the property
of this state, —
It is therefore voted and resolved, that he be forthwith
required to attend this Assembly ; and that Col. Dyer be
1777.] AND PROVIDENCE PLANTATIONS 233
requested to attend with, any evidences who have any
knowledge of the disposal of said gun.
It is voted and resolved, that Messrs. Joseph Hoxsie,
Gideon Hoxsie and James Babcock be a committee to re-
ceive the stock belonging to the farm late improved by Mr.
Silas Niles, agreeably to the lease and schedule received by
said Niles, from this state ; that if the said committee shall
be dissatisfied with the stock he shall turn out, they be em-
powered to take such of the said Niles's stock as they shall
think agreeable to his lease and schedule ; in which case,
they are to assess the damages for their not being delivered
the 25th day of April last ; the said Silas Niles having
agreed before this Assembly to abide the doings and report
of said committee ; and said committee are further empow-
ered to cleliverj said stock to Stephen Champlin and Job
Watson, to whom said farm is leased ; the said Stephen and
Job having agreed, before this Assembly, to receive the
same, agreeably to the determination of said committee.
It is voted and resolved, that Caleb Harris, Esq., be, and
he is hereby, empowered to collect the saltpetre purchased
by this state ; that he inspect the treasury books, to know
the quantity purchased, and of whom ; and that, when col-
lected, he deposite the same in places of safety ; that Be-
riah Brown, Esq., forthwith take possession of the saltpetre
in the possession of Andrew Balfour, belonging to this
state ; that Edward Wells and Joseph Maxson deliver the
saltpetre by them manufactured, before the 5th day of May
inst,, to the said Caleb Harris ; that he inspect the same,
and that they be allowed the bounty heretofore allowed by
by this state, for so much as shall be approved by the said
Caleb.
It is voted and resolved, that the commissary be, and he
is hereby, directed to use his utmost endeavors to procure
milk, and the other articles which are to be furnished the
troops by the commissary, at the stated price ; and, if neces-
sary, that he apply to the eommanding officer of any divi-
VOL. VIIJ, 30
234 RECORDS OF THE STATE OF RHODE ISLAND [MAY,
sion of the troops within this state, who are hereby required
to aid and assist him in procuring the same.
It is voted and resolved, that Major Sylvester Gardner, as
quartermaster of the troops stationed in King's county, lay
all his accounts against this state, before the council of war,
to be by them delivered to the standing committee, to be
examined ; that report be made to said council of war, who
are hereby empowered to adjust the same, and to make such
deductions as they shall think just and reasonable.
It is voted and resolved, that the sheriff for the county of
Kings immediately take possession of the stock late belong-
ing to Charles Slocum, deceased ; and that he apply to Col.
Dyer to place a guard for the protection of the same.
Whereas, Mr. Samuel Sheffield, of Westerly, in the county
of Kings, preferred a petition and represented unto this As-
sembly, that he is desirous, with such others as may join
him, to fit out a small privateer, of about twenty-five tons
burthen, in order to cruise off the Narragansett shores, and
elsewhere, for vessels belonging to the enemies of the
United States ; and thereupon prayed this Assembly to
grant him a permit, with such others as may see fit to join
him, to fit out said privateer, under such directions and reg-
ulations as this Assembly may think proper ; and the prem-
ises being duly considered, —
It is voted and resolved, that the prayer of the said peti-
tion be, and the same is hereby, granted ; the said Samuel
complying with the law.
The inhabitants of this state being put to great incon-
veniences for Avant of small money, —
It is voted and resolved, that a sum equal to $15,000, in
bills of credit, be immediately printed, and signed b}T the
persons hereinafter mentioned, and lodged in the general
treasury, and be applied towards paying the contingent
charges of government ; that the said bills be redeemed by
a tax to be levied on the inhabitants at the time therein
specified, and be of the following denominations, to wit:
_
849
00
- 900
00
-
750
00
- 562
10
-
500
00
- 375
00
-
250
00
- 187
10
-
126
00
£4,500
00
aid
bills be
of
1777.] AND PROVIDENCE PLANTATIONS. 235
Fifteen Thousand Dollar* in Bills of Credit Ordered to be issued
by the General Assembly.
8,41)0 of ono-tliird of a dollar, -
12,000 k- one-fourth of a dollar, -
15,000 " one-sixth of a dollar, -
15,000 " one-eighth of a dollar, -
15,000 " one-ninth of a dollar. -
15,000 " one-twelfth of a dollar. -
15,000 " one-eighteenth of a dollar, »
15.000 " one-twenty-fourth of a dollar,
15,080 " one-thirty-sixth of a dollar,
It is further voted and resolved, that the
the following form, to wit :
Form of the Bilk of Credit.
" State of Khode Island and )
Providence Plantations. )
No. . 1877, May 22. One-sixth of a dollar.
This bill entitles the possessor to receive one-sixth of a
dollar, out of the general treasury of this state, by the 22d
of May, 1785; and shall be received for that sum in all
payments, agreeable to an act of said state:'
It is further voted and resolved, that the said bills shall
be a lawful tender in discharge of all contracts, debts, dues
and demands, whether of a public or private nature.
It is further voted and resolved, that Messrs. Ebenezer
Thompson, Jonathan Arnold, Paul Allen, John lnnis Clarke,
William Bowen, George Olney and Theodore Foster (who
have generously undertaken to do the same gratis), with
such others as shall be added by the council of war, be a
236 RECORDS OF THE STATE OF RHODE ISLAND [MaY,
committee to procure paper, agree with the printer, have
the same printed, and sign the same ; and that each of the
said bills be signed by one person.
Whereas, Capt. Samuel Champlin represented unto this
Assembly, that in consequence of a petition some time since
preferred to this Assembly, and by them referred to the
Honoiable Major General Spencer, respecting the keeping
up a sufficient watch in Westerly, to guard their shores, the
General has appointed him to have the command of said
watch ; and that he has enlisted the number of men as-
signed for that purpose, who have been on duty from the
12th of February last past; and that no provision being
made for them, on account of their being remote from the
commissary's store, they were obliged to billet themselves ;
and thereupon, the said Samuel Champlin, for himself and
in behalf of the men under his command, requested this As*
sembly to determine whether they shall be allowed for their
board, or draw provisions of the commissary for the time
they have served ; and the premises being duly consid-
ered,—
It is voted and resolved, that the said Samuel Champlin
be allowed the pay and rations of a sergeant ; that the pri-
vates be allowed the same pay and rations as are allowed in
the Continental service ; and that the standing committee
ascertain what is due to them for their wages and rations.
Whereas, Frederick Wightman, Holmes Wightman and
George Wightman. sons of George Wightman, now in the
service of the enemy, are suspected of being unfriendly to
the United States, —
It is therefore voted and resolved, that the sheriff for the
county of Kings forthwith apprehend them, and confine
them in the jail in the county of Kent, to the end that they
may be examined before this Assembly, or the council of
war. in the recess thereof; and all military officers and
others are hereby required to aid and assist the said sheriff,
in the execution of this resolve.
It is voted and resolved, that the committee appointed to
1777.] AND PROVIDENCE PLANTATIONS. 237
receive the stock of Mr. Silas Niles, and deliver it to the
present tenants of the Sewall farm, Messrs. Stephen Champ-
lin and Job Watson, and for other purposes, as by the vote
appointing them, is mentioned, be also empowered and di-
rected to view the house and other buildings on said farm,
and report the state thereof, with other matters referred to
them, as aforesaid.
An Act empowering and directing the justices of the supe-
rior court of judicature, court of assize and general jail
delivery, in and for this state, to meet and hold a special
court for the trial of offenders against the United States,
in general, or this state, in particular.
Whereas, a number of persons have been committed for
high crimes, to several jails in this state ; and as the supe-
rior court of judicature, court of assize and general jail de-
livery, will not meet according to the stated terms, until
September next, and the difficulties and dangers of the
times and the public safety require that a speedy trial of
said persons be had, and that the said court be held in the
county of Providence, —
Be it enacted by this General Assembly, and by the au-
thority thereof it is enacted, that the said justices be, and they
are hereby, empowered and directed to meet specially in the
county of Providence, on Monday, the 2d day of June next,
and proceed to the trial of all offenders against the United
States in general, or this state in particular, wrho nowr stand
committed, or who may be committed before or during the
session of the said court.
That the sheriff of the county of Providence be, and here-
by is, empowered to empannel special juries, by writ of
venire facias, to be issued by said court for the trial of such
offenders ; and that the said justices and all other officers of
said court, be as fully empowered to act and do every thing
necessary for the purpose aforesaid, as though the said court
was held at the stated term time, and the offenders were in-
1238 RECORDS OF THE STATE OE RHODE ISLAND [MaV.
habitants of, and guilty of the offences within the county of
Providence.
Whereas, it hath been represented to this Assembly, that
many of the inhabitants of the town of Exeter, in this
state, have opposed the raising the number of men allotted
to said town, by this Assembly, at their session in April last,
and in a most daring and insolent manner still refuse to
raise, or aid and assist in raising and furnishing the same,
in defiance of the express order and demand of the legisla-
tive and civil authority of this state ; whereby, and from
their numbers, it hath become necessary that the military
force of this state should be exerted, in order to bring to
condign punishment such atrocious and high handed of-
fenders,—
It is therefore voted and resolved, that it be, and hereby
is, recommended to the Honorable Major General Spencer,
and he is requested, to march such a number of the militia,
or troops belonging to this state, or Continental troops, un-
der his command, as he shall think fit, into the said town of
Exeter, and seize, detain and confine in the jails within this
state, or under guard, such and so many of the disaffected
inhabitants of said town, or of any other towns within
this state, as he shall judge the publice peace and safety
requires.
And it is further requested, that he afford to the well-
affected inhabitants of said town of Exeter, and any other
town, all necessary aid and protection against the evil prac-
tices and designs of the enemies of this and the United
States of America ; and that this resolve continue in force
until further orders from this Assembly ; or in the recess
thereof, from the council of war.
It is voted and resolved, that the petition of Mr. John
Warner be, and the same is hereby, referred to the consid-
eration and determination of the council of war.
It is voted and resolved, that Mr. James Shearman be re-
quested to attend on this Assembly, on Saturday morning,
1777.] AND PROVIDENCE PLANTATIONS. 239
at nine o'clock, to give information of any money and ef-
fects he may have in his possession, being the property of
Mr. Isaac Howland, now or late of Jamestown ; and that
the sheriff of the county of Kings forthwith serve the said
James Shearman with a copy of this resolve.
It is voted and resolved, that a bounty of one shilling be
allowed for every bushel of good merchantable salt, that
shall be made within this state, within one year from the
rising of this Assembly, in addition to the bounty already
allowed ; provided, the person who makes the same, shall
declare under oath, that the same was made out of salt
water, within this state, and without any collusion.
And it is further voted and resolved, that a bounty of
three shillings be allowed for every bushel of good and mer-
chantable salt which shall be imported from foreign parts,
and brought into any ports of this state, within one year
from the rising of this Assembly, excepting salt brought in
prize vessels ; provided, the person who imports the same,
shall give the refusal thereof, to this state.
It is voted and resolved, that Doctor Jonathan Arnold,
Mr. Nathaniel Mumford and William Channing, Esq., be a
committee to draft an act against treason, &c. ; and that
they make report as soon as may be.
It is voted and resolved, that the daughter of Mr. Nathan
Bull, and the son of Mrs. Mary Coddington, and Susannah
Gardner, daughter of Samuel Gardner, be permitted to go
in the flag of truce to Newport, with the said Nathan Bull,
under the regulations and restrictions contained in the re-
solve granting permission for the said flag.
In Council was read the return of the officers chosen to
command the Artillery Company of the towns of Westerly,
Charlestown and Hopkinton, which is as follows, to wit :
Augustus Stanton, captain ; Thomas Noyes, first lieuten-
ant ; William Gardner, second lieutenant ; Caleb Crandall,
ensign.
Which beings duly considered by the Council, —
240 RECORDS OF THE STATE OF RHODE ISLAND [MAY,
It is voted and resolved, that the said officers be, and
hereby are, approved.
Whereas, steel is an article most essentially necessary to
the inhabitants of any country, and the encouraging persons
to manufacture it within this state, for the full supply of the
inhabitants, will be very advantageous to the public, —
It is therefore enacted by this General Assembly, and by
the authority thereof, that any person or persons who shall,
at any time before the 10th clay of June, A. D. 1780, by
themselves or others, manufacture within this state steel of
the best quality, or equal in goodness with good German
steel, usually imported into this state from foreign parts,,
shall have and receive as a bounty out of the general treas-
ury of this state, for every ton (gross weight,) by him or
them? manufactured as aforesaid, the sum of £60 lawful
money.
And it is further enacted by the authority aforesaid, that
there shall be one inspector of steel appointed Avithin this
state, who shall be engaged as other public officers are, and
who shall carefully examine and inspect, at the request of
the manufacturer, all the steel manufactured within this
state ; and upon all such as he shall judge equal in quality
to good German steel, as aforesaid, he shall fix a proper
stamp (by him for that purpose provided,) at such distances
upon each bar, as he shall judge necessary, to prevent any
impositions in the sale thereof; and the manufacturer
thereof, making oath or affirmation before such inspector,
who is hereby empowered to administer the same, that the
steel by him exhibited for inspection, is bona fide of his own
manufacture, and made within this state ; and that he has
not, by himself or others, for or on his account and behalf,
sold or taken any more or greater price than that stated, or
that may be stated by the General Assembly, for steel of
the same quality with that then exhibited for, and which
shall pass inspection ; thereupon such inspector shall certify
the same, and the quantity inspected, and by him stamped,
1777.] AND PROVIDENCE PLANTATIONS. 241
as aforesaid, to the general treasurer of this state, who, upon
receipt of such certificates, shall, if they amount to twenty
hundred gross weight, or one ton, as aforesaid, pay to the
persons producing the same, the sum of £60, lawful money ;
and in the same proportion for any quantity more than
twenty hundred gross weight, out of the treasury of this
state, taking receipts for all sums by him so paid.
And it is further enacted by the authority aforesaid, that
the manufacturer of steel shall pay to the inspector, for his
trouble, one penny per pound, for any number of pounds
not exceeding five hundred ; and one-half penny per pound
for all above five hundred pounds, for all steel which shall
at any one time be stamped by him, and certified as afore-
said, for his trouble in viewing, stamping and certifying the
same ; and fourpence per mile, for every mile he may travel
out from home, for that purpose.
And it is further enacted by the authority aforesaid, that
the inspector of steel for this state, as aforesaid, for pre-
venting imposition by false stamps, shall cause a description
of the stamp by him used for stamping steel of the best
quality, as aforesaid, to be published in the Providence Ga-
zette, four weeks successively, immediately after he shall
proceed to stamp any steel therewith.
And it is further enacted by the authority aforesaid, that
any person who shall be convicted of counterfeiting the said
stamp, or any other made use of by the inspector of steel,
and advertised, as aforesaid ; or of using any such stamp,
knowing it to be counterfeit, shall forfeit and pay as a fine
the sum of £100, lawful money, for every such offence ;
one-half thereof, to be paid to and for the use of the prose-
cutor, and the other half to the general treasurer of this
state, to be recovered by bill, plaint or information, in any
court of record within this state ; and shall also pay all costs
of prosecution and conviction.
And it is further enacted, that the stamp directed to be
procured by the inspector as aforesaid, be purchased at the
242 RECORDS OF THE STATE OF RHODE ISLAND [MAY,
expense of this state, to be delivered to his successor in said
office.
Be it enacted by this General Assembly, and by the au-
thority thereof it is enacted, that no rum, sugar, molasses,
cotton-wool, coffee, tanned leather, sheep's wool, and sheep,
until they are shorn, shall be carried out of this state, either
by sea or land, under any pretence whatseover.
That if any person shall be convicted of having carried,
or attempting to carry out of this state, any of the afore-
mentioned articles, he shall forfeit the articles so carried, or
attempted to be carried out of this state; one-half thereof,
to and for the use of the prosecutor ; and the other half, to
and for the use of the state, to be recovered by bill, plaint
or information, in any court of record within this state.
That all of the aforementioned articles which shall be
found carrying from one town to another in this state, or on
board any vessel about departing from the same, unless in
small quantities, shall be deemed to be attempted to be car-
ried out of this state, within the meaning of this act, unless
the person so carrying the same, shall produce a certificate
or permission, from the town council of the town from
whence such articles shall be removed ; specifying that the
same are permitted to be carried to some other town within
this state, for the use of the inhabitants thereof.
Provided nevertheless, that this act shall not extend to
any articles that have been, or shall be, purchased for the
use of the Continental army, for the transportation of which,
a permit shall be granted by the commander of the Conti-
nental troops in this state, or the council of war, in the re-
cess of the General Assembly.
And be it further enacted, that this act shall be in force
immediately from and after the rising of this Assembly.
It is voted and resolved, that Mr. Cromel Child be, and
he is hereby, appointed to repair the row-galley Washing-
ton, as soon as may be.
It is voted and resolved, that the committees appointed
1777.] AND PROVIDENCE PLANTATIONS. U43
in the several counties within this state, to dispose of the
salt proportioned to the towns belonging to this state, be,
and they are hereby, required forthwith to pay into the
general treasury the monejr arising from the sale thereof,
agreeably to a resolve of this Assembly.
Whereas, by an act of this Assembly, passed at the April
session, A. D. 1777, five hundred men were proportioned
to the several towns within this state, to be raised for
filling the Continental battalions : and difficulties having
arisen in ascertaining to which towns certain persons en-
listed into said battalions, shall be reckoned, —
It is voted and resolved, that all transient persons en-
listed by any of said towns, since the passing of said act,
vshall be reckoned to the towns for which they have been
enlisted.
It is further voted and resolved, that every person, being
an inhabitant of this state, who hath enlisted into said bat-
talions, be assigned to the town which is liable to maintain
him, in case he becomes chargeable.
It is further voted and resolved, that every person, who
hath been enlisted by any of said towns, since the passing
of said act, and who is an inhabitant of any other state, be
assigned to the town in which he resided at the time of his
enlistment.
It is further voted and resolved, that every apprentice
who enlisted into either of said battalions, be reckoned to
the town in which he is bound to serve his apprenticeship.
And it is further voted and resolved, that the persons
who have, or shall be reckoned to either of said towns as in-
habitants thereof, shall be considered as inhabitants of the
town to which they shall be so reckoned ; and shall, with
their families, be supported by said town, in case they be-
come chargeable ; unless they shall hereafter gain an-
other settlement ; any law to the contrary hereof, notwith-
standing.
It is voted and resolved, that a bounty of £16, lawful
244 RECORDS OF THE COLONY OF RHODE ISLAND [MaY,
money, be allowed to each of the non-commissioned officers
and privates of three companies, consisting of eighty-six
men each, in the battalion under the command of Colonel
Henry Sherburne, being one of the sixteen battalions rais-
ing by order of Congress ; and that Col. Henry Sherburne
be empowered to draw the money for the purpose, afore-
said, out of the general treasury ; and that he account
therefor, with this Assembly.
It is voted and resolved, that a flag of truce be permitted
to proceed to Newport, under the direction of Col. Dyer, to
carry clothing, and $20 in cash, for the use of the persons
lately taken by the enemy from North Kingstown, and now
confined in the jail, in Newport.
Both houses in a grand committee, chose the following
officers, to wit :
Officers of the First Regiment of Militia.
Joseph Noyes, Esq., colonel ; Jesse Maxson, Esq., first
lieutenant colonel ; and Thomas Sheffield, Esq., major.
Officers of the Second Regiment of Militia.
Samuel Whipple, Esq., major, in the room of George Peck.,
Esq., who declines.
Archibald Kasson, Esq., colonel; Benjamin Tillinghast,
Esq., lieutenant colonel ; and Yelverton Weight, Esq. major.
Pardon Gray, Esq., lieutenant colonel, in the room of
David Hilyard, Esq., who declines.
Simon Whipple, Esq., lieutenant colonel, in the room of
Elisha Mowtv, Esq., who declines.
Thomas Alclrieh, Esq., major, in the room of Simon Whip-
ple, Esq., promoted.
Thomas Smith, first lieutenant in the Continental bat-
talion commanded by Col. Angell, in the room of Nathan
Olney, who resigns.
1777.] AND PROVIDENCE PLANTATIONS. 245
An Act to prevent monopoly and oppression, by excessive
and unreasonable prices for many of the necessaries and
conveniences of life, and for preventing engrossers ; and
for the better supply of our troops in the army with such
necessaries as may be wanted.
[See printed schedule.]
It is voted and resolved, that Capt. Abraham Whipple, or
any of the commissioned officers of the ship Providence,
under the direction of any justice of the peace in this state,
be, and they are, empowered to impress within this state,
sixty men, for the present cruise, being seamen, transient
foreign persons, and not inhabitants of this or any of the
United States, and not enlisted into the service of this state,
or the Continent.
That the men so impressed, upon their entering the ship's
books, shall be entitled to, and receive the same bounties,
wages and allowances, as those alread}* entered on board
the said ship are entitled to ; and that the several justices
of the peace, when called upon by the said Abraham Whip-
ple, or any of his commissioned officers, be, and they are
hereby, directed to give eveiy assistance to the above men-
tioned service.
It is voted and resolved, that the commanding officers of
each of the three battalions raising by this state for fifteen
months, cause the captains and other recruiting officers to
make out abstracts of all the men enlisted into said battal-
ions, mentioning the time when they enlisted, the bounties,
pay and clothing they have respectively received; and
those who have enlisted from them into the Continental ser-
vice, the time when they so enlisted, and the bounties, pay
and clothing that they have likewise received.
That the abstracts be made out, for those that are re-
maining in the said brigade, up to the 10th day of May ;
and that the rolls be delivered to the committee of safety,
wrho are directed to pay them up to said time.
246 RECORDS OF THE STATE OE RHODE ISLAND [MaYj
And the committee of safety is hereby directed to make
out abstracts for all those that have enlisted into the Conti-
nental battalions, as aforesaid, with the bounties, pay and
clothing they have respectively received, and lay the same
before this Assembly, in order that justice may be done as
well to this state as to the men who have so enlisted.
An Act against treason and misprison of treason, and for
regulating trials in such cases, and for directing the
mode of executing judgments against persons attainted of
felony.
[See printed schedule,]
Whereas, there are a number of blankets immediately
Wanted for the use of the Continental battalions raising by
this state, —
It is voted and resolved, that the number of five hundred
blankets be immediately apportioned to the several towns
in this state.
And whereas, there is a quantity of flour and iron belong-
ing to this state, the distributing a part of which amongst
the inhabitants thereof, would at this time, be very useful
and advantageous to them, —
It is therefore further voted and resolved, that two hun-
dred and fifty barrels of flour, and four tons of iron be ap-
portioned to the several towns therein.
And it is further voted and resolved, that the rule for ap-
portioning the blankets, flour and iron, aforesaid, be accord-
ing to the last apportionment of the tax ; that Mr. Nathaniel
Mumford be, and he is hereby, appointed to apportion the
same ; and that it be done immediately.
It is voted and resolved, that Joseph Crandall, captain of
the row-galley Spitfire, enlist, to serve on board said galley
for the term of eighteen months from the day of their en-
listments, unless sooner discharged by this Assembly, fifty
men, including those already enlisted, and their officers.
That all the sailors be allowed £9, bounty, upon their
1777.] AND PROVIDENCE PLANTATIONS. 247
enlisting ; and that those which have already enlisted, have
the same bounty upon their enlisting anew, in manner as
above mentioned.
Whereas, divers persons within this state, who may rea-
sonably be supposed to be well affected to the interest and
liberties thereof, have hitherto neglected to subscribe the
test or declaration, prescribed by an act of this Assembly,
at the session held at Newport, in June, 1776, although
called upon so to do ; and are now prevented by an act or-
dering that no person, to whom the same had been ten-
dered, should, after the passing thereof, be permitted to sub-
scribe the same, without permission first had from this As-
sembly ; and are in consequence thereof, subject to many
incapacities and inconveniences, —
Be it therefore enacted by this General Assembly, and by
the authority thereof it is enacted, that if any person within
this state, not having hitherto subscribed the said declara-
tion, shall, on or before the 10th day of July next, subscribe
the same before the Governor, Deputy Governor, an assist-
ant, or judge of the superior or inferior court, or in open
town meeting, such person shall be restored to all his liber-
ties, privileges, franchises, and immunities ; and shall as
fully enjoy the same, as though he had subscribed the said
test or declaration in due season ; and that no person, after
the expiration of said time, shall be admitted to subscribe
the same, without special permission first had from this
Assembly.
Whereas, the calling forth the militia for defence of this
state, greatly prevents the carrying on necessary husband-
ry, and is attended with many other inconveniences, —
It is voted and resolved, for the filling up the brigade or-
dered to be raised by this state for fifteen months, that a
bounty of £6, lawful money, be allowed and paid to each
non-commissioned officer and private, who shall enlist into
the same within fifteen days after the rising of this Assem-
bly, in addition to the bounty heretofore allowed ; after
which time, this additional bounty shall cease.
248 RECORDS OF THE STATE OF RHODE ISLAND [May,
And whereas, clothing was allowed to the non-commis-
sioned officers and privates, as part of their bounty ; some of
whom, already enlisted, have not yet received the same, and
others who shall enlist, nu<vy incline to receive money in lieu
thereof, —
It is further voted and resolved, that in case any non-
commissioned officer or soldier shall choose to receive
money instead of clothing, he shall be allowed £7 10s., in
lieu of the whole clothing allowed, and in proportion for any
part thereof.
It is farther voted and resolved, that the form of the en-
listment in future, for the said brigade, shall be the same as
was firrt ordered ; excepting that the men shall be enlisted
to serve until the 16th clay of March next, unless sooner
discharged by this Assembly, on which day the said brigade
shall be dismissed.
It is further voted and resolved, that one thousand men
be raised, for filling up the said brigade ; and that the quota
of each town thereof, shall be as follows, to wit :
Quota of men proportioned to the several Towns, to be raised for
the Brigade.
No. of men.
No. of men.
Providence,
- 80
Charlestown,
- 35
Warwick,
61
West Greenwich,
35
Westerly, -
- 39
Coventry, -
- 49
North Kingstown,
51
Exeter, -
39
South Kingstown,
- 50
Bristol,
- 24
East Greenwich,
44
Tiverton,
42
Smithfield, -
- 55
Little Compton, -
- 31
Scituate, -
82
Warren, -
23
Gloucester,
- 68
Cumberland,
- 42
Kichmond,
28
Johnston,
32
Cranston, -
- 37
North Providence,
- 15
Hopkinton,
36
Barrington,
11
It is further voted and resolved, that as soon as any town
1777.] AND PROVIDENCE PLANTATIONS. 249
town shall have raised its proportion assigned by this act,
or any number of men as part of their quota, not less than
five, and the same shall have joined the army, that then so
many men of the militia, alarm men, and independent com-
panies, of such town upon duty, shall be dismissed by lot,
and shall be discharged from doing duty upon the shores,
except in case of such an alarm as shall occasion the whole
force of the state to be called out ; and His Honor Major
General Spencer is hereby requested to discharge them ac-
cordingly.
And it is further voted and resolved, that no greater
bounty shall be given by any town, than is allowed by this
act ; and that any town may enlist the inhabitants of other
towns, as part of its quota.
And it is further voted and resolved, that the town
treasurers of the several towns, or persons appointed by
said towns, be empowered to draw the necessary sums of
money for the purpose, aforesaid.
In Council was read the return of the officers chosen to
command the company of Scituate Hunters, which are as
follows, viz. :
Gideon Cornell, captain ; Jonathan Smith, first lieuten-
ant ; Bertram Rounds, second lieutenant ; Jonathan Hop-
kins, Jr., ensign.
Which being considered by the Council, —
It is voted and resolved, that said officers be, and hereby
are, approved.
The return of officers for the company of North Provi-
dence Rangers, was read in Council, and are as follows, to
wit :
Thomas Olney, Jr., captain ; Rufus Angell, lieutenant.
Which being duly considered, —
It is voted and resolved, that said officers be, and they
are hereby, approved.
Whereas, this Assembly, at their session in December last,
passed an act for preventing monopoly and oppression,
therein stating the prices of certain articles in said act enu-
TOI,. VIIT? 22
250 RECORDS OF THE STATE OF RHODE ISLAND [MAY,
merated ; and did resolve, that the soldiers raised by this
state, and their families, should be furnished with said arti-
cles for their use and consumption, at the prices stated ; and
whereas, this Assembly, at the present session, have passed
an act, making certain alterations in the prices of said
articles, —
It is therefore voted and resolved, that the articles enu-
merated in the first mentioned act, shall be furnished the
soldiers raised by this state, and their families, at the prices
as stated in said act, agreeably to the true intent and mean-
ing of said resolve ; the soldiers lodging money for that pur-
pose, in the hands of the committee appointed to furnish
them, as aforesaid.
It is voted and resolved, that the committees of safety
within this state be, and they are hereby, directed to pay
the difference of wages between the allowances of this state
and the Continent, to the officers of the regiment late under
the command of Col. Richmond, during their continuance in
the service ; and to the officers of the regiment late under
the command of Col. Lippitt, from the 11th day of May, A.
D. 1776, until the 1st day of September then next following,
upon the abstracts being certified by their respective com-
manding officers.
It is voted and resolved, that the officers in the two bat-
talions and regiment of the train raising within this state
for fifteen months, who have not made their returns to this
Assembly at the first May session, as ordered, and shall not
make the same, and a return of names of the persons by
them enlisted into said regiment and battalions, and of the
time of their enlistment, to the council of war, on or before
the 7th day of June next, shall be discharged from the ser-
vice, and the council of war are empowered on the 8th day
of June next, to appoint others in their room ; and in case
it shall appear by the returns made, agreeably to this or
the former order, that any officer is deficient in the number
which was by the order first mentioned, assigned him to
raise, that the officer so deficient, shall be dismissed the
1777.] AND PROVIDENCE PLANTATIONS. 2o I
service, and the council of war are empowered on the
said 8th day of June to appoint others in their stead.
Provided, that no person shall he commissioned, or be en-
titled to pay or rations as an officer, until he shall have
enlisted a number of men according to his rank, equal to
one-half the number before assigned to such officer, and
make return thereof to the council of war, or (if sitting) to
this Assembly ; and immediately after such return, he shall
be commissioned, and be entitled to pay and rations.
And it is further voted and resolved, that copies hereof
be forthwith transmitted to the colonels of the battalions
and regiment.
It is voted and resolved, that the old court house, and lot
of land thereunto belonging, upon Little Rest Hill, in South
Kingstown, be sold at public vendue, on the 7th day of June
next, to the highest bidder, by the sheriff of the county of
Kings.
That he give a good deed thereof to the purchaser, war*
ranting the same in behalf of the state ; and that he ad-
vertise the sale of said house and land in the Providence
Gazette.
It is voted and resolved, that when any tax shall be as-
sessed upon any unimproved land in any town within the
state, the owner whereof is an inhabitant of another town,
the collector of taxes within the town in which said land
lies, is directed to give notice of said assessment to the
owner thereof; and upon his neglect or refusal to pay the
same, the said collector is empowered to dispose of so much
of the wood and stone that may be on said land, as may be
sufficient to satisfy and pay said tax ; or otherwise collect
the same from the owner of said land, in the same manner
as by law he is directed, when the owner is in the town in
which the tax is assessed.
It is voted and resolved, that a flag of truce be permitted
to proceed from Howland's Ferry to Rhode Island, to carry
on said island Joseph Willcox ; and that the same be under
the direction of Col. Stanton.
252 RECORDS OF THE STATE OF RHODE ISLAND [MAY,
It is voted and resolved, that Mr. Welcome Arnold be ap-
pointed to inquire what number of blankets, belonging to
this state, have been, since the 1st of December last, deliv-
ered by the committees of safety to any soldiers ; and to
whom they were delivered.
That he apply to said committees for information ; and
that he make report to this Assembly as soon as may be.
It is voted and resolved, that the Honorable William
Bradford, Esq., be empowered to draw £1,000, lawful
money, out of the general treasury ; and that he account
for the same, as one of the committee of safety.
It is voted and resolved, that John Northup, Esq., be em-
powered to draw £1,500, lawful money, out of the general
treasury ; and that he account for the same as one of the
committee of safety.
It is voted and resolved, that the secretary revise the act
for preventing monopoly and oppression ; and the acts since
made in addition thereto ; that he form the same into one
act, and make report to the council of war ; that the same
be forthwith printed, and copies thereof transmitted to the
several town clerks within this state.
It is voted and resolved, that the officers of the artillery
companies in the several towns within this state, who have
been heretofore appointed by such towns, be chosen in fu-
ture at the annual town meeting for the choice of town offi-
cers in said towns.
That Willson Pollock, captain of the company in the town
of South Kingstown, be suspended ; and that the lieutenant
take the command until another choice, agreeably to this
resolve ; any law, custom or usage, to the contrary, not-
withstanding.
It is voted and resolved, that the fees of the judges,
sheriffs, and other officers of the superior court, as stated
by law, are too low, considering the prices of the necessa-
ries of life ; and that this Assembly will make them an ade-
quate allowance for their public services, from this time
until the next session of this Assembly.
1777.] AND PROVIDENCE PLANTATIONS. 253
Whereas, Mr. Nathaniel Mumford, who was appointed to
proportion flour, iron and blankets, to the several towns
within this state, presented unto this Assembly the follow-
ing apportionment of said articles, to wit :
Proportion of Two Hundred Barrels of Flour, Five Hundred
Blankets, and Four Tons of Iron, to the several Toivns in this
State.
Providence
Warwick ,
Barrels .
34
15
9
lilankcts.
68
30
18
3
a
10
4
2
4
8
Iron.
qr. lb
3 5
2 5
3 4
North Kingstown
14
27
28
54
2 8
3 6
2 19
0 26
3 11
1 12
1 4
3 15
East Greenwich ,
Smithfield
8
16 ...
16
32
2
Scituate
Glocester
Charlestown
12
10
0
24
20
14
12
3
3
2
1
2
2
...14 .
1 °0
8
...16 .
2 13
Bristol
7
14
1 15
1 27
Tiverton ,
11
10
92
Little Compton
20
3
1
0 10
0 3
7
14 .
1
1
3 °2
6
12 .
3 12
11
22
2 6
2 6
1 24
1 16
0 19
8...
.. 16
2
1
1
1
10
g
... 10
4
8...
250 500 80 0 0
It is voted and resolved, that the above apportionment of
flour, iron and blankets, ordered to be apportioned to the
several towns within this state, be, and the same is, ap-
proved of.
That the persons hereafter named, be appointed to pro-
cure the blankets proportioned to the said towns ; and that
they deliver the same, within ten days after the rising of
this Assembly, to either of the committees of safety within
254 RECORDS OF THE STATE OF RHODE ISLAND [MAY*
the state, who are hereby directed to advance to the several
committee-men in their respective comities the necessaiy
sums for that purpose.
Names of the Persons appointed by the General Assembly to pro-
cure the Blankets from the several Towns.
For Providence — William Rhodes.
" Warwick — Benjamin Arnold, Jr.
" Westerly — Thomas Ross.
" North Kingstown — Daniel Hall ; and in case of his
refusal, Sylvester Gardner.
" South Kingstown — Enoch Haszard.
kk East Greenwich — Thomas Tillinghast.
" Smithfield — Samuel Winsor.
" Scituate — Timothy Hopkins.
" Glocester — Asa Kimball.
" Charlestown — Robert Congdon.
a West Greenwich — Elisha Green.
" Coventry — John Greene.
" Exeter — John Chapman.
" Bristol — Stephen Smith.
" Tiverton— "'Isaac Manchester.
" Little Compton — Aaron Wilbur.
" Warren — Cromel Child.
" Richmond — Richard Bailey.
" Cranston — Randall Briggs.
" Hopkinton — Thomas Wells.
" Johnston — Ebenezer Sprague.
u North Providence — Joseph Olney;
" Barrington — Peleg Heath.
And it is further voted and resolved, that the said com-
mittees do not give for the best of blankets a higher price
than thirty shillings, lawful money ; and for others in pro-
portion.
That if any person within this state hath, in the opinion
of said committee, a greater number of blankets than he is
1777.] AND PROVIDENCE PLANTATIONS. 255
in immediate want of, for the use of himself and family,
and will not voluntarily dispose of the same, or of his pro-
portion of what he may be possessed of, the said committee
be empowered to impress the same, and pay the owner
thereof, as much as the same shall appear to them to be
worth, agreeably to this resolve.
That persons be appointed by said towns, to transport at
the expense of the state, the flour and iron above propor-
tioned, from Dartmouth, to their respective towns ; and
that the accounts for transportation of the same, be laid be-
fore this Assembly.
It is voted and resolved, that the committees of safety
in this state, be, and they are hereby, directed and em-
powered to purchase, at the stated price, of the farmers and
other proprietors of leather, a sufficient quantity to make
two thousand pair of shoes.
That they forthwith have them made for the use of the
soldiers raised by this state ; and that in case any person
having more than for his famity's use, shall withhold his
leather from sale, the said committees shall seize and im-
press the same out of the hands of such persons ; paying
them the stated price therefor, until the quantity necessary
for the purpose aforesaid, be procured.
And it is further voted and resolved, that those persons
who shall frankly and freely sell their leather to the said com-
mittee at the stated prices as aforesaid, without impressing,
shall have the preference in purchasing the raw hides which
may be at the disposal of this state.
Voted and resolved, that the following accounts be paid
out of the general treasury, viz. :
Bills Ordered fo be Paid.
£ s. d.
Col. Thomas Church, for six boatmen, stationed at Seaconnet Point 36 00 00
Beriah Wait, for carrying expresses 6 00 00
Samuel Potter, for carrying expresses to Providence 2 0-5 00
Joseph Belcher, for copper gun-ladles, nails, &c 7 17 00
h " nails for fiat-bottomed boats , .... 3 09 06
256 RECORDS OF THE STATE OF RHODE ISLAND [MAY,
£ s. d.
Joseph Belcher, for pails, and sundry other articles, for the use of the troops, 2 14 04
Josias Lyndon, for attendance on the General Assembly, at South Kings-
town 2 07 02
Daniel Branch, for cleaning the state house, in Providence ; and for coal and
candles for the use of the Assembly 0G 00
Ichabod Babcock, Jr., for carrying express from Westerly, to Little Rest
Hill, in South Kingstown ; and from thence to Providence 2 14 00
Caleb Gardner, Jr., for carrying express to General West 1 10 00
Ebenezer Cole, for victualling sixteen soldiers, -who were on guard at
Warren 16 00
Nathaniel Mumford, for his services as one of the committee of audit 12 12 00
Major Richard Bailey, for taking an account of the number of inhabitants in
the town of Richmond 2 14 00
Thomas Potter, Jr., for keeping the light house in Kings county 6 03 09
Jonathan Peck, for carrying express from Col. Babcock to the General As-
sembly, at East Greenwich 15 00
Ebenezer Tefft and Richard Chappel, for attendance as waiters, &c, on the
General Assembly 3 16 00
Josias Lyndon, as clerk of the house 1 16 00
Enoch Stanton, for his services as armorer to Col. Lippitt's regiment 20 00 00
Hon. William Bradford, for his services in attending Col. Putnam, to lay out
lines on Rhode Island, &c 16 07 04
Levi Maxwell, for freight of carriage guns, to East Greenwich 3 00 00
Richard Smith, for expenses in taking possession of sundry farms in Bristol,
in behalf of the state 0 00 00
Benjamin Stelle, for effects lost on Rhode Island, in consequence of his being
the officer of a flag of truce, sent to Block Island, at the time Rhode
Island was evacuated 39 10 00
Henry Ward, for writing paper, sealing wax, and wafers, for the use of the
secretary's office 22 11 06
William Waterman, for ten reams of paper, for the use of the state 20 00 00
Beriah Waite, for carrying expresses to town clerks and military officers. . . 2 02 00
Edward Taylor, for the use of a sulky, to carry a French officer to Lebanon,
on his way to join Gen. Washington's army 1 04 00
Dr. John Bartlett, for his services as surgeon to Rhode Island brigade and
director of the Rhode Island hospital 21 00 00
Dr. William Wittridge, for attendance on sick soldiers, at Howland's Ferry, 15 11 00
James Rhodes, for provisions, &c, furnished to guard, on Watch Hill 20 05 11
Cromel Child, for materials furnished, and for labor done, in repairing the
row-galley Spitfire 231 09 04
Enoch Hazard, for fire-arms and accoutrements furnished the inhabitants of
South Kingstown 41 18 10
Ambrose Peck, for repairing small arms, for the use of the state 19 06 00
Cromel Child, for iron-work for the row-galley Spitfire 68 09 00
Peleg Simmons, for eight day's service and horse-hire, in taking an account
of the inhabitants of Tiverton 2 14 00
Rowse J. Helme, for attendance as clerk to Assembly, and the committee of
Avar 12 00 00
Zebedee Hopkins, for numbering the inhabitants of Glocester 5 08 00
Sarah Gray, for a boat taken from Howland's Ferry, by Generals West and
Malmedy, which was subsequently burnt by the enemy 67 15 00
1777.]
AND PROVIDENCE PLANTATIONS. 257
Col. John Weight, for a pay-roll of a detachment of his company 27 10 06
John Reynolds, for his expenses to Boston, to bii3r clothing 7 13 00
William Dyer, for express and horse-hire, to Hartford 4 04 00
William Charming, for services on the Assembly, assistant clerk 3 06 00
God save the United States of America.
The Governor of Rhode Island to the Committee of Safety of Neiu
Hampshire.
State of Rhode Island and Providence Plantations, i
In the lower House of Assembly. )
Providence, March 5th, 1777.
Gentlemen : — As you have not sent any of the troops assigned by the committee of
the New England states, as your quota, for the defence of this state, I must now desire
that you would, with all possible despatch, send forward the number at least allotted
you.
The reason I must now be so urgent, is very obvious ; the troops sent forward here
by Connecticut and Massachusetts are all militia, and their time is now mostly out.
You are sensible, gentlemen, that after the time the militia is engaged for expires,
there is no retaining them.
The season is now very fast approaching when the enemy will not be idle. One-
third part of all the men within this state, have been called forth upon duty ever since
the enemy took possession of Rhode Island, which labors very hard with us ; they
have done duty for one month, and then been relieved ; and the last division is now
going to take their tour.
Arguments to hasten your levies, are, I am sure, at this time unnecessary. The
consequences of suffering the enemy to get possession of any advantageous place upon
the main land, is such, that will induce you to take every measure in your power to
prevent it. And unless we have such numbers here, as to make an attack upon them,
they may soon spread desolation in the country adjacent to Rhode Island ; and as
Gen. Washington has respectfully pressed our filling up our Continental battalions,
and sending them forward, we can't but complain of the neglect of our neighboring states
in not sending us the assistance agreed to, which puts it out of our power to comply
with His Excellency's strongest recommendations.
I am, with great esteem and regard, gentlemen,
Your most obedient, humble servant,
NICHOLAS COOKE.
To the Committee of Safety, New Hampshire.
The Governor of Rhode Island to Gov. Trumbull, of Connecticut.
Providence, March 14, 1777.
Sir : — This state feels much difficulty and distress in consequence of an order or
regulation passed in the state of Connecticut, prohibiting any provisions to come from
thence to this. We are greatly concerned at the event of such a measure ; for this rer
source being cut off, we cannot find any other sufficient to enable us to support such
of the army as do and must remain amongst us, besides the new troop raised and rais-
ing for the Continental service.
This state doth not raise a sufficiency of provision for the common inhabitants, even
vol. viii, 33.
258 RECORDS OF THE STATE OF RHODE ISLAND [May,
in peaceable times, much less now, when the large body of troops kept up here, hath
consumed all the stock in the neighboring parts.
The public service, as we think, must receive great detriment by an adherence to
this prohibition ; and we have so great an opinion of the public spirit of Connecticut,
as to believe that upon a review of their act, they will be induced to repeal it, so far as
respects us. Your government is an important link in the American chain ; and with-
out your continuance of every usual supply of provisions, we shall not only be greatly
distressed, but it will become exceeding difficult, if not impossible, for us to render those
services to the United States, which both our duty and desires coincide to move us.
We are greatly affected already by the operation of your regulation, although it be
but of a short standing ; and we tear the worst of consequences both to the army and
our inhabitants, should it remain in force.
I am, with great truth and regard, sir,
Your most obedient, humble servant,
NICH. COOKE.
To the Honorable Governor Trumbull.
Gov. Trumbull to the Governor of Rhode Island.
Lebanon, May 6, 1777.
Sir : — Col. Russell and David Hoswell, Esq., your committee, have communicated
to me your resolves and proposals of making an attack on Rhode Island, in co-operation
with the New England sister states, and agreeably to the recommendation of Congress.
The plan is very desirable, and would be of great importance. I wish to forward the
undertaking.
This state is now greatly threatened, and we have reason to expect descents upon
various parts at once ; and have in consequence given out orders to detach for differ-
ent parts, a fourth part of our whole militia and alarm roll, which is now beginning to
execute. The attended with great difficulty at this most critical season.
My Council is not with me, nor can possibly be convened before our election on the
8th . I will lay the matter before the Assembly as early as possible, and if
practicable I have no doubt they will send their proportionable assistance. My best
endeavors shall be exerted to promote it.
Nothing, however, is essential which is not in our power to supply ; I mean the ar-
ticle of arms. We are at the greatest difficulty to supply our quota of the army ; and
the present draughts of militia. If you can furnish, or procure them from Boston or
elsewhere, it will be an encouragement to our attempts ; and without it, I think our
men will be badl)r armed ; please to let me know what may be expected.
As it is impossible for me to give a decisive answer, the gentlemen of your commit-
tee think it most proper for them to attend our Assembly, and they shall be furnished
with as early an answer as possible.
I am, sir, with much esteem and regard,
Your Honor's most obedient and humble servant,
JON'TH. TRUMBULL.
P. S. To obtain the arms so much needed here, I have enclosed a request to the
honorable board of war, at Boston, to sell us and deliver to your order two thousand
stands of arms, or such number as can be spared. We wish to promote the intended
expedition all in our power, and doubt not j^our readiness to promote our obtaining
arms.
AND PROVIDENCE PLANTATIONS. 259
Gen. Malmedy to the Governor of Rhode Island.
Morristown, May l'.tth, 1777.
Honorable Sir:— Permit me to remind you that the Assembly of Rhode Island, in
consideration of the small number of troops raised in that state, (which was a prudent
measure, and from wise motives of economy,) resolved to dismiss their three brigadier
generals. It even condescended to offer me a gratification for my services, as a
testimony of their satisfaction; and Your Honor has been pleased, likewise, to
make an advantageous representation of my conduct ; all which, does me honor,
and has disposed the Honorable Congress, His Excellency and all worthy persons
to think favorably of me ; however, this good disposition towards me, is not univer-
sal ; for evil-minded people, ever ready to misconstrue facts, have interpreted my
dismission in a manner highly injurious to my reputation.
I know and respect the good intentions of the gentlemen who compose your Assem-
bly ; and therefore cannot believe that they meant to do me harm in sending me to the
army ; and after premising this, I shall hesitate not a moment to acquaint you with the
subject of my apprehensions and uneasiness, hoping from a continuance of good offices,
to remove the prejudices and malicious insinuations of the malevolent against my
character.
I came into America with the consent of the French generals, and upon assurance
that my services here would be agreeable to my country. I am obliged to render
them an account of my conduct in the armies of the States. I could not do this better,
than by informing them that through the recommendation and confidence of General
Lee, the state of Rhode Island has honored me with the rank of brigadier general ;
and I've just now received the general of Martinico's compliments thereupon.
If the reputation of a French officer through the affection of his country for your cause,
be absolutely established, by his fulfilling his duty in your armies, I beg you will consider
how critical the situation the bare suspicion of the contrary must bring him into ; my dis-
mission after five months' promotion, must necessarily leave some suspicions in a
kingdom, where the spirit of honor and good conduct can alone recommend to, and
maintain officers in posts and places.
Be pleased to put a favorable construction on my inquietude. I know not what
judgment the people in general of this continent may pass on these matters, unless I
may be allowed to form an idea from the expressive letter which General Washington
wrote upon the subject.
Wherefore, since my services at Rhode Island have met with your approbation, per-
mit me, through Your Honor, to ask a favor of the Assembly, that will be of infinite
service to me. Your Honors dismissed me from the maxims of economy, and because
you had but few troops. I entreat you will again honor me with the rank of brigadier
general, without any pay, and without the least pretension of being employed by you,
unless Your Honors should think proper to demand my services. This will be a rank
merely honorary, which will confirm the distinction you formerly conferred on me,
without any solicitation on my part.
If the principles of your administration, sir, permit you to pay any attention to what
so essentially concerns my reputation, and to grant my petition, be pleased to grant
this rank to Monsieur Frangois de Malmedy, colonel. The Congress sent me this
commission on the 10th May. In which case, there will be no degradation, and I shall
enjoy in tranquillity the effects of your bounty.
I am, with profound respect, honored sir,
Your most obedient and very humble servant,
(Signed) MALMEDY.
To Honorable Governor Cooke.
2G0 RECORDS OF THE STATE OF RHODE ISLAND [JUNE,
Proceedings of the General Assembly, held for the State of Rhode
Island and Providence Plantations, at Providence, on the third
Monday in June, 1777.
His Excellency Nicholas Cooke, Governor.
The Hon. William Bradford, Deputy Governor.
It is voted and resolved, that Major Simeon Thayer be,
and he is hereby, appointed to receive of Eoyzel Smith, late
captain of a company in one of the Continental battalions,
the enlistments of the men by him enlisted into the said
battalions, or in the fifteen months regiments ; and an ac-
count of the moneys by him received for the purposes afore-
said ; and that the said Royzel Smith be, and is hereby, re-
quired to deliver said enlistments, and render said account,
accordingly ; and Major Thayer is further empowered to
bring the said Royzel Smith to the town of Providence, in
order that he may be examined before this Assembly, or a
committee thereof.
It is voted and resolved, that as often as either of the
committees of safety are ready to have their accounts au-
dited, that they lay them before the standing committee,
who are hereby directed to receive and audit the same, and
return them to the General Assembly, with the vouchers.
It is voted and resolved, that £130, lawful money, be al-
lowed to Joseph Clarke, Esq., general treasurer, for his ex-
traordinary services the year past, exclusive of his salary.
Whereas, Capt. Jabez Westcoat hath received £48 12s.,
of Capt. Thomas Carlile ; which sum hath been retained by
the said Thomas, for the clothing, pay and billeting of cer-
tain soldiers who have enlisted into the Continental bat-
talions,—
It is therefore voted and resolved, that said Westcoat
1777.] AND PROVIDENCE PLANTATIONS. 261
settle with Major Simeon Thayer respecting the same ; and
that Major Thayer render an account thereof, to this As-
sembly.
It is voted and resolved, that Cromel Child and Sylvester
Child, Esqs., who were heretofore appointed to make in-
quiry after the personal estate of William Vassall, Esq., and
to make an inventory thereof, be, and they are hereby, em-
powered in behalf of this state, to commence actions against
John Waldron, dishing, Hezekiah Munro, and Ste-
phen Mimro, for the recovery thereof; and also for the
rents due from them, or either of them, for the real estates
of the said William Vassall and Thomas Palmer.
It is voted and resolved, that Messrs. John Brown and
John Jenckes, with the standing committee, be appointed a
committee to count the money now in the treasury ; and
that they make report to this Assembly.
It is voted and resolved, that the standing committees
forthwith make out an account of the sums of money ad-
vanced by this state for the recruiting service, and the
names of the officers to whom they were paid ; and that
they make report to this Assembly, or, in the recess there*
of, to the council of war, to the end that the same maybe trans-
mitted to the pa}-master of the battalions in which they serve.
And it is further voted and resolved, that the said pay-
masters, upon the receipt of said accounts, forthwith pro-
cure a settlement thereof; and that they produce the same,
with the vouchers, to this Assembly, or in the recess there-
of, to the council of war.
It is voted and resolved, that the rules and regulations
ordered by Congress, for the Continental ships and vessels
of war, be introduced into this state, for the government of
all ships and vessels of war in the service thereof.
That the commissioned officers of any vessel of war, or the
major part of them, not consisting of less than three, be em-
powered to hold courts martial for the trial of all non-
commissioned officers and privates belonging thereto.
And that the council of war, appointed to act in the re-
262 RECORDS OF THE STATE OP RHODE ISLAND [JUNE,
cess of the General Assembly, be empowered to hold courts
martial upon any commissioned officer belonging to any
ship or vessel of war in the service of this state.
It is voted and resolved, that Col. George Irish be per-
mitted to come before this Assembly on Thursday next, be-
ing the 19th instant.
Whereas, Major Hezekiah Bissell preferred a petition, and
represented unto this Assembly, that he hath been applied
to by the proprietors and owners of the powder mill in
Windham, to procure for their use a quantity of rum, and to
forward the same ; in consequence of which, he has, with much
difficulty, obtained near one hundred gallons of West India
and New England rum, and was about to remove the same ;
but finds that, by a late act of this Assembly, that said arti-
cles cannot be removed without permission first had for that
purpose ; and thereupon prayed for liberty to remove the
said rum from Providence to said Windham, without being
considered as acting against the design of said embargo ;
and further represented that he has been for some months
past, possessed of about ten gallons of spirits, one barrel of
sugar, and a few dozen of port wine, which he purchased for
his family's use, and which he prayed might also be in-
cluded in said permit ; and the j>remises being duly con-
sidered,—
It is voted and resolved, that the prayer of the aforegoing
petition be, and the same is hereby, granted.
It is voted and resolved, that the price of salt, manufac-
tured or imported within this state, be not limited in future ;
any act to the contrary, notwithstanding.
It is voted and resolved, that Major Pardon Gray distrib-
ute the corn and barley in his hands, belonging to this state,
to the poor inhabitants of the town of Tiverton ; barley at
three shillings and sixpence per bushel ; and corn to the
families of the soldiers, at three shillings and sixpence
per bushel ; and to all others at four shillings per bushel ;
and that he account therefor to this state.
It is voted and resolved, that Mr. Ebenezer Harris be per-
1777.] AND PROVIDENCE PLANTATIONS. 263
mitted to carry a hogshead of sugar (which he bought of
Mr. Joseph Whipple before the state bill was passed) from
Providence, to the house of Mr. John Greene (son of
Thomas), in Coventry, within this state.
Both houses being resolved into a grand committee, chose
the following officers, in the brigade raising by this state,
for fifteen months, to wit :
Officers Chosen for the Brigade.
William Barton, Esq., lieutenant colonel ; Nathaniel Haw-
kins, Esq., major, of the first regiment.
Archibald Crary, Esq., colonel ; John Topham, Esq.,
lieutenant colonel ; James Williams, major, of the second
regiment.
Peleg Hoxsie and Benjamin Hoppin, captains in Colonel
Stanton's regiment,
John Carr and Benajah Whipple, captains in Col. Crary's
regiment.
Officers Chosen for the First Regiment.
William Gardner, first lieutenant, in Captain Hoxsie's
company.
William Whipple, first lieutenant, in Captain Phillips's
company.
Christopher Phillips, second lieutenant, in Capt, Phillips's
company.
Christopher Champlin, second lieutenant, in Capt, Dyer's
company.
Joshua Babcock, second lieutenant, in Capt, Thompson's
company.
George Tennant, second lieutenant, in Captain Hoppen's
company.
John Welch, ensign in Capt. Hoxsie's company.
Newman Herring, ensign, in Capt. Phillips's company.
Randall Rice, ensign, in Capt. Dyer's company.
264 RECORDS OF THE STATE OF RHODE ISLAND [JUNE,
Andrew Stanton, ensign, in Capt. Thompson's company.
Thomas Parker, ensign, in Capt, Gibbs's company.
Arnold Bentley, ensign, in Capt, Hammett's company.
Officers Chosen for the Second Regiment.
Nathan Olney, first lieutenant, in Capt. Carr's company.
Zadock Williams, first lieutenant, in Captain Whipple's
company.
Nathan Carpenter, first lieutenant, in Captain Riggs's
company.
Benjamin Walcutt, first lieutenant, in Captain Ballou's
company.
Jacob Belknap, second lieutenant, in Captain Ballou's
company.
Daniel Sheldon, second lieutenant in Captain Whipple's
company.
Aaron Wilbur, Jr., second lieutenant, in Captain Man-
chester's company.
Alexander Thomas, second lieutenant, in Capt, Riggs's
company.
Eleazar Randall, ensign, in Capt, Whipple's company.
Benjamin Wilcox, ensign, in Capt, Manchester's company.
Mathew Maxson, Jr., ensign, in Capt. Parker's company.
Simeon Dexter, ensign, in Capt. Ballou's company.
Reuben Read, ensign, in Capt, Carr's company.
Elijah Armstrong, ensign, in Capt, Allen's company.
Joseph Cornell, ensign, in the Continental battalion raised
by this state, under the command of Col. Greene, in the
room of Nathaniel Phillips, who hath resigned.
It is voted and resolved, that a hogshead of rum, belong-
ing to Mr. Samuel Dunn, Jr., lately seized in the town of
North Providence, and stored in the house of Mr. Jonathan
Jenckes, Jr., be delivered the said Samuel ; and that he be
permitted to carry the same to Boston, for the stores of two
vessels bound from thence to France.
It is voted and resolved, that Mr. Jacob Greene be, and
1777.] AND PROVIDENCE PLANTATIONS. 265
he is hereby, permitted to send upon Block Island a boat,
in order to bring off a negro boy belonging to General
Greene ; and that the boat depart under the care, direction
and inspection of Col. Joseph Noyes.
Whereas, John Northup and Sylvester Gardner, Esqs.,
preferred a petition, and represented unto this Assembly,
that Stukely Westcoat, collector of rates for the town of
North Kingstown, was taken and carried by the enemy,
from said town, to the island of Rhode Island ; that great
difficulty has since arisen in collecting the rates within said
town, as no account can be had from whom they have been
collected by the said Westcoat ; and thereupon, the peti-
tioners, agreeably to a vote of said town, requested this As-
sembly to empower James Congclon, the present collector
of rates within said town, to administer an oath or affirma-
tion to any person who appears to be indebted for any rates
within said town, and who cannot otherwise make it appear
that he hath paid the same, that he hath well and truly
paid and satisfied the said rates to the said Stutely West-
coat ; and if any person shall refuse to take said oath or affir-
mation, that the said James Congdon be empowered to col-
lect said rates agreeably to law.
And the premises being duly considered, —
It is voted and resolved, that the prayer of the said peti-
tion be, and the same is hereby, granted.
Major John Nelson having exhibited unto this Assembly
an account, by him charged against the state, for the wages
and expenses of three companies of men, belonging to Col.
Sproat's regiment, who marched from Middleborough, in the
county of Plymouth, and state of the Massachusetts Bay, to
Tiverton, in order to go as volunteers in an expedition on
Rhode Island, —
It is voted and resolved, that the said account be referred
to Mr. John Smith, who is empowered to pay so much there-
of, as shall appear to him to be due, to the said Major John
Nelson.
266 RECORDS OF THE STATE OF RHODE ISLAND [JUNE,
Whereas, Messrs. Joseph Hoxsie, Gideon Hoxsie and
James Babcock, Jr., presented nnto this Assembly the fol-
lowing report and account, to wit :
Report of the Committee.
We, the subscribers, being by the General Assembly, at their session in South
Kingstown, on the 21st clay of May last, appointed a committee to receive of Mr. Silas
Niles the stock belonging to the farm lately improved by him, agreeably to the lease
and schedule he received from the state, do report :
That, in obedience to said appointment, we have received of the said Silas Niles the
stock belonging to said farm, which is agreeably to his lease and schedule ; and have
delivered the same to Messrs. Stephen Champlin and Job Watson.
All which is submitted to Your Honors, by your humble servants,
JOSEPH HOXSIE, JAMES BABCOCK, JR.,
GIDEON HOXSIE, Committee.
It is voted and resolved, that Henry Ward, Jonathan Ar-
nold, Joshua Babcock, Esek Hopkins and Paul Mumford,
Esqrs., be a committee, to draught a letter in answer to the
one received from Sir Peter Parker.
It is voted and resolved, that Mr. Stephen Jenckes be re-
quested to examine the beef and pork in his possession, be-
longing to this state ; and if necessary, that he have the
same re-packed.
It is voted and resolved, that Samuel Haley be, and he is
hereby, permitted to carry a barrel of sugar, from the town
of Providence, to the. state of Connecticut, for the use of his
family, who have lately removed from this state.
Whereas, Col. George Irish preferred a petition, and rep-
resented unto this Assembly, that he conceives his being
confined, and restrained of his liberty, is a grievance, and
great damage to him and to the public ; he being conscious
that he ever was, and still is, a friend to his native country,
and at all times ready and willing to give his assistance for
the defence of it ; and that he conceives nothing has ap-
peared against him, if taken in the most unfavorable light,
sufficient to continue his confinement, although it might be
thought expedient when done ; and thereupon prayed this
1777.] AND PROVIDENCE PLANTATIONS. 267
Assembly to take his distressed situation into consideration,
and grant him his liberty ; and the premises being duly
considered, —
It is voted and resolved, that the prayer of said petition
be granted, upon his, the said George Irish, giving his pa-
role that he will not go off the main land, without leave
from His Honor the Governor, or the council of war.
Whereas, Major Simeon Thayer, who was appointed to
bring Mr. Royzel Smith before this Assembly, presented
unto this Assembly the following report, written upon a
copy of his appointment, to wit :
Report
Pursuant to the resolution of the General Assembly, I proceeded to the town of Hop-
kinton, the usual place of the said Royzel Smith's abode, the said Smith being absent
and gone to Stonington ; to which place I proceeded and found him, and have him
now in custody.
He saith he is ready now to account for his conduct, before the General Assembly,
or the council of war, or any committee that shall be appointed for that purpose.
And the said report being duly considered, —
It is voted and resolved, that the same be, and hereby is,
accepted ; and that the said Royzel Smith settle with Chas.
Holden, paymaster to one of the Continental battalions
raising within this state, for the money received of him for
recruiting said battalion ; and with Mr. John Smith, for the
money received of him for recruiting in the fifteen months'
service.
It is voted and resolved, that Peter Phillips, Esq., be em-
powered to draw £500, lawful money, out of the general
treasury, to discharge the rations, mileage, &c, of the sol-
diers ; the said Peter Phillips to return the same, on de-
mand.
It is voted and resolved, that the council of war be, and
they are hereby, empowered, in the recess of the General
Assembly, to pass and allow such accounts, as may be pro-
duced to them for payment, as appear reasonable ; such ac-
counts first passing the standing committee, or either of
268 RECORDS OF THE STATE OF RHODE ISLAND [JUNE,
them ; and being certified in the usual manner, previous to
their allowance.
It is voted and resolved, that Mr. Thomas Crab and Doct.
Tappen be, and they are hereby, permitted with their teams,
containing thirty hogsheads of rum, thirty hogsheads of su-
gar, one cask of Jesuits's bark, and two boxes of medicine,
which were purchased in the state of the Massachusetts
Bay, for the use of the Continental army, to pass through
this state, into the state of Connecticut, unmolested ; any
law to the contrary, notwithstanding.
It is voted and resolved, that the sugar now in the pos-
session of this state, late belonging to Messrs. George Gibbs
and Francis Brinley, be retained for the use of the troops
raised by this state.
It is voted and resolved, that Mr. Joseph Lawrence be
permitted to remove fifteen hogsheads of brown, and six of
loaf sugar, in his possession, belonging to Mr. Halstead, to
the town of Johnston.
Both houses in a grand committee, made choice of the
following officers, to wit :
Officers Chosen for the Militia.
John Handy, brigade major, in the fifteen months' brig-
ade, raising by this state.
Simeon Martin, adjutant of Col. Crary's regiment.
Jonathan Hayes, second lieutenant ; Samuel Snow, third
lieutenant, in Capt. Jabez Westcoat's company.
Amos Jilson, captain-lieutenant ; Uriah Westcoat, first
lieutenant ; Isaac Pitman, second lieutenant ; Wm. Badger,
third lieutenant, in Capt. Gideon Westcoat's company.
William Nightingale, first lieutenant ; William Page, sec-
ond lieutenant ; Joseph West, third lieutenant, in Capt. Gar-
zia's company.
John Baker, first lieutenant ; Christopher Robinson, sec-
ond lieutenant ; Squire Howe, third lieutenant, in Captain
Adams's company.
1777.] AND PROVIDENCE PLANTATIONS. 269
Ebenezer Spencer, Esq., major, of the first regiment of mi-
litia, for the county of Kent, in the room of Thomas Tilling-
hast, Esq., who resigns.
William Hall, captain ; John Shaw, lieutenant, of the first
company in East Greenwich.
Gideon Harris, ensign, of the third company of militia, in
the town of Scituate, in the room of Samuel Angell, who
declines.
John Eddy, captain ; Stephen Olney, lieutenant ; John
Bowcn, ensign, of the first company of militia, in the town
of Glocester.
Joseph Mauran, captain of the row> galley Washington.
In Council was read the return of Joseph Hawkins, Jr.,
being appointed ensign, of the company of North Provi-
dence Rangers ; which being duly considered, —
It is voted and resolved, that said choice be, and hereby
is, approved.
It is voted and resolved, that the act laying an embargo
on vessels within this state be, and the same is hereby, re-
pealed,
Provided nevertheless, that no rum, sugar, molasses, cot-
ton-wool, coffee, tanned leather, sheep's wool, sheep, butter
and cheese, or any such other articles as are prohibited by
Congress from being exported, shall be carried out of this
state, in any vessel, under any pretence whatever, unless a
permit therefor, shall be granted by this Assembly, or, in
the recess thereof, by the council of war.
That if any person shall be convicted of having carried,
or attempted to carry, out of this state, any of the afore-
mentioned articles, he shall forfeit the articles so carried, or
attempted to be carried, out of this state ; one-half thereof,
to the prosecutor, and the other half to and for the use of
this state ; to be recovered by bill, plaint or information.
It is voted and resolved, that the small arms heretofore
purchased by this state, for such persons as should be ad-
judged unable to furnish themselves therewith, be delivered
to the committees of safety, for the use of the fifteen
270 RECORDS OF THE STATE OF RHODE ISLAND [JuNE,
months' battalions, and train of artillery, raising within this
state.
Whereas, an additional bounty of £6, lawful money, was
allowed at the last session of this Assembly, to each non-
commissioned officer and private who should enlist into the
fifteen months' brigade raising by this state, before the 10th
day of June instant ; which time hath elapsed ; and where-
as, the said brigade is as yet not filled, —
It is therefore voted and resolved, that said additional
bounty of £6, be allowed to each non-commissioned officer
and private, who shall enlist into the said brigade, within
twenty days from and after the rising of this Assembly.
And it is further voted and resolved, that no person ap-
pointed an officer in the said brigade, at this Assembly, be
commissioned, or be entitled to pay or rations as an officer,
until he shall have enlisted the number of men according to
his rank, as hereafter mentioned, within twenty days after
the rising of this Assembly, to wit :
A captain, twenty men ; a first lieutenant, sixteen men ;
a second lieutenant, twelve men ; and an ensign, ten men ;
and make return thereof, to the council of war, or, if sitting,
to this Assembly ; and upon making such return, that he
shall be commissioned, and entitled to pay and rations, from
the time of his appointment.
And it is further voted and resolved, that a copy hereof,
be forthwith transmitted to each of the colonels in the
said brigade.
It is voted and resolved, that five vessels be immediately
purchased in behalf of this state ; that two of them be fitted
out as armed vessels to cruise against the enemies of the
United States ; and three, as merchantmen, to import such
articles as the council of war shall direct.
That the said council of war be empowered to appoint a
committee, to purchase and fit out said vessels ; that the
same be done under their direction and inspection, as soon
as may be ; and that said committee be allowed such com-
missions as the said council of war shall agree on, not ex-
1777.] AND PROVIDENCE PLANTATIONS. 271
ceeding two and one-half per cent, for transacting the
business.
It is voted and resolved, that £100 be allowed, and paid
out of the general treasury, to the Honorable Nicholas
Cooke, Esq., Governor of this state, for his salary and extra-
ordinary services the last year.
It is voted and resolved, that £50 per year be allowed,
and paid out of the general treasury, to the Honorable
William Bradford, Esq., Deputy Governor, for his salary
and extraordinary services, from the 9th day of October,
A. D. 1775, until the general eleetion in May last.
Whereas, the committee, who were appointed to prepare
the draught of a letter to the delegates of this state, in Con-
gress, laid before this Assembly a draught of said letter ;
which being duly considered, —
It is voted and resolved, that the same be, and hereby is,
. approved ; and that a fair copy thereof be made, signed by
His Honor the Governor, and immediately forwarded.
It is voted and resolved, that Messrs. Charles Holden, Jr.,
and Jonathan Hazard, paymasters to the two battalions rais-
ing by this state, for the Continental service, be, and they
are hereby, appointed storekeepers for their respective bat-
talions, to receive and sell out to the officers and soldiers
thereof, such articles of supply as may be furnished by this
state, at the stated prices and cost of transportation.
That they account for whatever articles they shall re-
ceive, to this state, from time to time, when demanded ; and
that, for their care and trouble, in this behalf, they be al-
lowed each £6 per month, and two rations per day.
Whereas, by an act of this Assembly, for preventing mo-
nopoly and oppression, the several towns within this state
were directed to appoint three, five, or seven persons, within
their respective towns, before the 10th day of June instant,
who were to be under oath to prosecute all breaches of said
act which should come to their knowledge ; and whereas,
many towns did not appoint said persons until after said
272 RECORDS OF THE COLONY OF RHODE ISLAND [JUNE,
time had elapsed, and others have not yet appointed per-
sons agreeably to said act, —
It is therefore voted and resolved, that the persons who
have been elected and sworn for the purposes mentioned in
said act, since said time hath elapsed, be empowered to exe-
cute the office to which they are appointed, agreeably to
said act.
And the towns who have not elected the persons agreea-
bly to said act, are directed and empowered to elect said
persons for the purposes therein mentioned, within five
days after the rising of this Assembly, upon the penalty of
£200, lawful money, to be recovered for the use of this
state, by the general treasurer thereof, by bill, plaint or in-
formation, in any court of record within this state ; any
thing in said act to the contrary, notwithstanding.
Voted and resolved, that the following accounts be paid
out of the general treasury, viz. :
Bills Ordered to he Paid.
£ s. d.
Thomas Allin, for cleaning arms, making bayonets, ram-rods, &c 18 02 02
Dr. William Bowen, for taking care of a sick soldier, at Pawtuxet 5 18 00
David Dexter, for medical attendance on his son Ensign Samuel Dexter . . 19 17 00
Dr. Reuben Mason, for his services as surgeon to General William West's
brigade 7 16 00
Philip Paine, for paper for making a book of records, for the secretary's
office 2 00 00
Daniel Mo wry, for twenty-six guns and bayonets, purchased by order of the
town council of Smithfield, for the poor inhabitants of that town 109 04 00
Jeremiah Wilcox, for storage and deliveries of salt, belonging to the state . . 12 02 06
Stephen Jenckes, for repairs of Pawtucket Bridge 36 00 00
Elijah Bacon, for expense of express to Taunton and Dighton 1 11 06
Rev. James Manning, for posts, rails and stakes, taken by soldiers, for fuel . 18 00 00
John Brown, for sulphur, and medicines purchased by him, by order of the
council of war 845 02 00
James Waterman, for boarding nine prisoners of war 42 08 08
Paul Tew, for taking care of the court house, and furnishing wood and
candles 32 04 04
Josias Lyndon, for services as clerk of the house 4 07 02
Thomas Greene, for services as one of the audit committee 13 16 00
Thomas Wells, authorized to draw on account of bounty to soldiers 372 00 00
Joshua Babcock, " " " " " 468 00 00
John Northup, one of the committee of safety, anthorized to draw for 500 00 00
God save the United States of America.
1777.] AND PROVIDENCE PLANTATIONS. 273
The Governor of Rhode Island to William Ellery and Henry Mar*
c/tant, Delegates in the Continental Congress.
Providence, June 22d, 1777.
Gentlemen: — The prodigious expenses of so considerable a body of men as we have
been, and are, obliged to keep up, to defend the country against that part of the enemy
who are in possession of Rhode Island, and the necessary supplies to the other troops
stationed in this government, together with the large sums expended upon our Conti-
nental battalions, have so tar exhausted our treasury, that unless we obtain assistance
from Congress, we shall very soon be constrained to add a new emission to the floods
of paper bills already circulating.
We have now in the treasury only between £30,000 and .£40,000, which we suppose
will be paid out before it will be possible to receive supplies from Philadelphia. You
are fully sensible of the almost irreparable mischiefs that have been already occasioned
by such large emissions of bills, and of the fatal consequences that will attend further
emissions. Indeed, every one is at length convinced of the absolute necessity of les-
sening their quantity.
We therefore direct you to make immediate application to Congress, for a supply of
£00,000, to be paid to the order of this Assembly, or of the council of war ; and to use
your utmost endeavors to obtain it. Our demands upon Congress for such expendi-
tures as are properly Continental charges, since our accounts were last forwarded,
amount to near that sum ; our accounts we will transmit as soon as possible.
Should it be thought proper, an order upon the Continental loan office, in this state,
will be the most expeditious mode of supply, and will save us the expense and risk of
bringing the money from Philadelphia. In this case, it will be necessary to transmit
more blank notes to the commissioner, as those he hath received, are already disposed
of. We are, gentlemen,
Your most humble servants,
NICHOLAS COOKE,
To Hon. William Ellery and Henry Marchant, Esqs.
Proceedings of the General Assembly, held for the State of Rhode
Island and Providence Plantations, at Providence, on Mon-
day, the 1th clay of July, 1777.
His Excellency Nicholas Cooke, Governor.
The Hon. William Bradford, Deputy Governor.
Whereas, Mr. Joseph Bennett, of New Providence, in the
county of Berkshire, and state of Massachusetts Bay, pre-
ferred a petition, and represented unto this Assembly, that
vol. viii. 35
274 RECORDS OF THE STATE OF RHODE ISLAND [JULY,
on or about the 5th day of November, 1776, he purchased
in the town of Providence a number of casks of rum, sugar
and salt, with some other small articles, and on his return
home, engaged three teams to transport the said goods ; but
through misfortune, one of the teams failed, and he had only
two loads transported ; by which means, one hogshead of
salt, one tierce of sugar, and some small articles were left in
Providence, until some time in the winter past, when he
sent a team for the remaining articles, but obtained only
the hogshead of salt, by reason that his friend had sent the
sugar and other articles into the country for safety ; that
he stands in great need of said sugar for his own family's
use, and has procured a team, which is now waiting to trans-
port the same ; and thereupon prayed this Assembly to
grant him liberty to remove the same out of this state ; and
the premises being duly considered, —
It is voted and resolved, that the prayer of said petition
be, and the same is hereby, granted ; and that the petitioner
be permitted to remove the said tierce of sugar and other
small articles into the state of the Massachusetts Bay, or
any other of the United States, without molestation.
It is voted and resolved, that Mr. Isaac Hilyard be, and
he is hereby, permitted to remove two hogsheads of sugar
from the town of Tiverton into Connecticut ; the same hav-
ing been purchased and brought from the state of Massa-
chusetts into this state.
It is voted and resolved, that the standing committee
forthwith make out an account of the monies expended for
the use of the prisoners of war, and of the sums paid to
them by this state ; and that they make report to this As-
sembly, or in the recess thereof, to the council of war, that
the same may be transmitted to the board of war, in Phil-
adelphia, agreeably to a resolve of Congress.
It is voted and resolved, that the committee of safety
within this state be, and they are hereby, empowered and
directed, immediately to collect the guns, bayonets and car-
touch-boxes, belonging to this state, and not appropriated to
1777.] AND PROVIDENCE PLANTATIONS. 275
the several towns, and therewith furnish the fifteen months'
brigade, raising within this state ; and if said guns, bayonets
and cartouch-boxes, should not be sufficient for the purpose
aforesaid, that they collect so many of the guns, bayonets
and cartouch-boxes, appropriated to the several towns, as
shall be necessary for supplying the deficiency ; and the
persons in the several towns who are possessed of the said
appropriated guns, &c, are directed to deliver the same, ac-
cordingly.
It is voted and resolved, that the several towns within
this state be, and they are hereby, permitted to erect hos-
pitals within their respective towns, for the purpose of inoc-
ulating for the small pox, under the regulations and restric-
tions contained in an act heretofore made and passed
granting permission for erecting hospitals for the purpose
aforesaid.
It is voted and resolved, that for the future, when the
companies of the militia and alarm-list within this state, or
draughts or detachments thereof, shall be called out to
duty, and the number of each company, draught or detach-
ment, shall not exceed twenty-four rank and file, it shall be
in the power of the commanding officer of the regiment to
which they respectively belong, to incorporate them into
companies during the time of their service, and direct the
attendance of such commissioned officers as shall comport
with the number of the companies so incorporated, agreea-
bly to a resolve of this Assembly, of the 20th of April last
(allowing, where the case will admit, one commissioned offi-
cer, at least, to each town), and to dismiss all supernumerary
officers, who may attend with such draughts, detachments,
or companies, before they enter on duty.
It is voted and resolved, that Henry Ward, Esq., be, and
he is hereby, appointed to proceed immediately to the state
of Massachusetts Bay, to represent to the General Assembly
of said state the deplorable condition and circumstances of
this government, and to urge the most pressing instances
for immediate and effectual assistance.
276 RECORDS OF THE STATE OF RHODE ISLAND [JuLY,
It is voted and resolved, that William Vincent, Esq., be,
and he is hereby, appointed to repair the bridge in West-
erly, dividing between this and the state of Connecticnt.
That he from time to time keep in repair such part of
said bridge as belongeth to this state to keep up and main-
tain ; and that he make report thereof, to this Assembly.
It is voted and resolved, that the non-commissioned offi-
cers and privates in the train of artillery, be not permitted
in future to enlist into the Continental battalions ; any re-
solve to the contrary, notwithstanding.
It is voted and resolved, that a committee of three per-
sons be appointed in behalf of this state, to meet committees
from the General Assemblies of the states of New Hamp-
shire, Massachsetts Bay, Connecticut and New York, at the
town of Springfield, in the county of Hampshire, in the
state of Massachusetts Bay, on the thirtieth day of this in-
stant July, in case said Assemblies shall think fit to appoint
such committees ; then and there to hold a conference re-
specting the state of the paper currency of the said states ;
of the expediency of calling in the same by taxes, or other-
wise ; of the most effectual, expeditious and equal method
of doing it, and to consult upon the best means for prevent-
ing the depreciation and counterfeiting the same ; and also
to consider what is joroper to be done with respect to the
acts lately made to prevent monopoly and oppression, and
to confer upon the late acts for preventing the transporta-
tion by land of certain articles from one state to another ;
and to consider such ©ther matters as concern the immedi-
ate welfare of said states, and are not repugnant to, or in-
terfering with the powers and authorities of the Continental
Congress ; and particularly to consider of, and solicit some
more sure and effectual method to keep up a sufficient army
to oppose that bod}' of the enemy which is now in posses-
sion of the island of Rhode Island ; and that they report the
result oftheir conference to this General Assembly.
It is voted and resolved, that one of tho divisions, con-
sisting of the one-sixth part of the independent and alarm
1777.] AND PROVIDENCE PLANTATIONS. 277
companies and militia heretofore draughted, and one-half
of a division, be immediately called upon actual duty.
That the field officers of the several regiments of militia,
and commanders of independent and alarm companies, call
upon duty the division which is next in order to the divi-
sion which last did duty, agreeably to said draught ; and
one-half of the next succeeding division, to be draughted
under the direction of said field officers and commanders of
companies.
That they continue in service for the space of fifteen
days, and be relieved at the expiration of said time, by the
other half of said division, and one other division, in the or-
der in which said divisions were drawn, to continue in ser-
vice during said time ; and that the divisions on actual duty
from time to time, be relieved and do duty in manner as is
before directed.
It is further voted and resolved, that a bounty of ten shil-
lings, lawful money, be allowed to each non-commissioned
officer and soldier who hath been draughted, and shall do
duty, as aforesaid.
And further, that all fines which shall be incurred for de-
linquency, after deducting the costs and fees for collecting
the same, shall be equally divided among the non-commis-
sioned officers and soldiers doing duty, who belong to the
same town with the delinquents who shall neglect to do
duty.
It is further voted and resolved, that in case any officer
or soldier in each division, who was draughted as aforesaid,
shall neglect to appear at the time and place ordered by his
respective superior officer or commander, either by himself
or a good, able-bodied and suitable person in his stead, com-
pletely equipped with arms and accoutrements, to enter
upon and perform such military duty as shall be enjoined
him, he shall be liable to pay as a fine for each clay's neg-
lect, the sum of five shillings, lawful money ; to be levied
and collected by warrant of distress, from the captain or
278 RECORDS OF THE STATE OF RHODE ISLAND [JuLY,
other commanding officer of the company for the time
being, directed to the clerk, unless the person so deficient,
shall, before the expiration of said fifteen days, pay to the said
captain or commanding officer of said company to which he
belongs, the fine due for his not appearing, as aforesaid.
And it is further voted and resolved, that the several
commanders of the respective companies who were draught-
ed, as aforesaid, cause their several companies to be com-
pletely equipped with arms, and every other necessary ac-
coutrement ; and if any in said company, who have been
adjudged by the town council in their respective towns, to
be unable to furnish themselves therewith, shall appear not
duly equipped, the commanders of said companies are di-
rected to apply to said town councils, who are hereby em-
powered and directed to furnish them with arms and accou-
trements, agreeably to the resolve of this Assembly.
And it is further voted and resolved, that the secretary
immediately transmit copies hereof, to the several colonels
of militia, and commanders of independent and alram com-
panies, within this state.
Names of Commissioners from Rhode Island to meet at Springfield,
and of Officers for the Militia, Chosen.
Both houses in a grand committee, made choice of the
Honorable Stephen Hopkins, Esq., the Honorable William
Bradford, Esq., and Paul Mumford, Esq., to be a committe,
to meet committees of the other New England states, and
New York, at Springfield, on the 30th of July current,
Abraham Andrews, second lieutenant, in Captain Riggs's
company, in Col. Crary's regiment, in the room of Alexander
Thomas, who resigns.
Joseph Chace, ensign, in said company, in the room of
Andrews, advanced.
Whereas, Joseph Drake, late of New Rochelle, in the state
of New York, Esq., represented to this Assembly, that the
1777.] AND PROVIDENCE PLANTATIONS. 279
day the enemy took possession of that place, he was obliged
to abandon his house and stores, with the greatest part of
his effects, to the ravages of the enemy.
That in September last, he purchased in this state about
forty-two hogsheads of sugar, in order to carry them into the
state of New York ; of which, for want of conveyance, he
was obliged to leave twenty-two hogsheads in Providence.
That by a late act, laying a prohibition upon certain
enumerated articles, he is prevented from the removal there-
of; and that the sugars aforesaid, are intended for the sup-
ply of the army, and the inhabitants of the state of New
York ; and thereupon prayed this Assembly to grant him
liberty to remove the sugars aforesaid, into the said state of
New York ; and the premises being duly considered, —
It is voted and resolved, that the prayer of said petition
be, and the same is hereby, granted.
It is voted and resolved, that Mr. John Smith deliver to
Col. James Babcock two hundred flints, for the use of the
town of Westerly ; and two hundred flints to Mr. Benjamin
Tillinghast, for the town of West Greenwich.
It is voted and resolved, that Mr. John Smith deliver to
Major Richard Bailey four hundred flints, for the use of the
town of Richmond.
This Assembly having heretofore passed acts empowering
the officers of the two Continental frigates in this state to
impress seamen for the said ships upon an extraordinary
occasion, which hath now ceased, —
It is therefore voted and resolved, that the said acts be,
and they are hereby, repealed.
This Assembly taking into consideration the great atten-
tion and assiduity with which Simeon Thayer, Esq., hath
executed the office of major of the second Continental bat-
talion raising by this state, and being willing to reward
merit, —
Do resolve, that Mr. John Smith, one of the committee of
safety, be, and he is hereby, directed to procure a genteel
silver-hilted sword, and present the same to the said Simeon
280 RECORDS OF THE STATE OF RHODE ISLAND [JULY,
Thayer, as a testimony of the sense this Assembly hath of
his services.
Voted and resolved, that the following accounts be paid
out of the general treasury, viz. :
Bills Ordered to be Paid.
£ s. d.
Charles Holden, for supplies furnished a company of volunteers 25 17 00
Col. Israel Angell, on account of transportation • 4 06 09
Simeon Thayer, bounty for enlisting one hundred and twenty seven men
for the Continental battalion 50 16 00
Pardon Gray, for enlisting twenty-three men for brigade, and payment
taken 276 00 00
God save the United States of America.
Jeremiah Powell, of Massachusetts, to the Governor of Rhode
Island.
State of Massachusetts Bay, i
Council Chamber, Boston, July 2d, 1777. \
Sir : — The General Assembly of this state, taking into their consideration the state
of the bills of credit emitted by this and the neighboring governments, and finding the
measures that have already been adopted, particularly the act for preventing monopoly
and oppression, and fixing the rates at which certain articles shall be sold at, have not
effectually answered the purpose of supporting the credit of said bills, or preventing
their depreciation, have chosen a committee to meet such committees, as may be ap-
pointed by the states of New Hampshire, Rhode Island, Connecticut and New York,
on the 30th day of July next, at the town of Springfield, in the county of Hampshire,
within this state, to confer together upon this interesting subject, and consider what steps
can be taken effectually to support the credit of the public currencies, and prevent their
being counterfeited ; and to confer upon such other matters as are particular^ men-
tioned in the resolve enclosed.
This is a matter of great importance ; and as the several New England States and
the state of New York are so intimately connected with respect to their currencies, and
have so great a commercial intercourse with each other, it appears highly expedient
and necessary they should confer and consult upon the several matters above referred
to, in order that they may, as near as possible, pursue one and the same plan for re-
dressing those evils and for accommodating each other in every way consistent with
the public safety.
It is not doubted, therefore, that you will concur with us in this measure, and we
should be glad to hear from you upon the subject as soon as possible.
In the name and behalf of the General Assembly,
I am, sir, your most obedient, humble servant,
JER. POWELL, President.
To the Hon. Nicholas Cooke, Esq.
P. S. We have addressed the Honorable Congress on the occasion and subject of
this conference, in order to obviate any misconstructions of the same.
1777.]
AND PROVIDENCE PLANTATIONS. 281
General Washington to the Governor of Rhode Island.
Morristown, July 7th, 1777.
Sir : — I make no doubt but before this, you will have heard that the enemy have
evacuated Jersey. This information I should have done myself the pleasure of trans-
mitting you by the first opportunity after the event, had not my attention been em-
ployed in making a new disposition of the army, and had I apprehended it materially
interesting that it should have come immediately from myself.
When Gen. Howe withdrew his forces from this state, and went to Staten Island,
from the intelligence received at that time from Gen. St. Clair, at Ticonderoga, that
the Canada army were on the lake, and approaching that post ; and from every other
circumstance, it appeared extremely probable, nay, almost certain to me, and to all the
generals and other officers possessed of the facts, that Gen. Howe's first and immedi-
ate movement would be up the North River ; and that the two armies meant to co-
operate and favor each other's attack. This, I say, was my opinion, and that of my
officers at that time, from a full consideration of the intelligence we then had. But I
confess, however satisfied I was then upon this subject, I am now in extreme doubt
respecting his intended operations.
Having heard nothing from Ticonderoga since the 26th ult., nor any further ac-
counts of the enemy's approach in that quarter, we are left to conjecture whether
their appearance on the lake was with a view to a real and serious attack, or whether
to amuse and draw our attention that way, while a stroke is meditating against some
other place. This uncertainty is rendered considerably greater, by the concurrent ac-
counts of deserters, who have escaped from New York and Staten Island, in the course
of a few days past. From their information, and a variety of circumstances, such as
that berths are fitting up for the light horse on board the transports ; provender taken
in, and providing for three or four weeks ; the embarkation of the officers' baggage,
with their names and corps endorsed ; the ships watering, &c, it would seem more
probable that Gen. Howe has in contemplation some other object than the North
River. Whether he has, or what it is, however, is yet entirely unknown.
I have thought it my duty, nevertheless, to give you this information, that if he
should once more turn his arms against the Eastern States, you may not be taken by
surprise ; and that matters may be put in the best train circumstances will admit, to re-
ceive him.
On my part, no exertions in my power shall be wanting to counteract his plans
wheresoever they are directed, and to render every service compatible with our gen-
eral line of defence, and the interest of the states at large.
I have the honor to be, with great respect, sir,
Your most obedient servant,
GEO. WASHINGTON.
To the Honorable Nicholas Cooke.
Brig. Gen. F. Smith, to the Governor of Rhode Island.
Newport, Rhode Island, i
July 12th, 1777. }
Sir : — Major General Prescott, having become a prisoner of yours, and having been
carried off this island without any necessaries with him, I take the liberty to send hia
servant and such things as he may immediately want, presuming that he may be in-
VOL. Till. 36
282 RECORDS OF THE STATE OF RHODE ISLAND [JULY,
indulged with the use of them ; and not doubting that he will be treated with that at-
tention which his rank and distinction claims.
I am, sir, your most obedient, humble servant,
F. SMITH, Brig. Gen'l.
P. S. I have charged Capt. Barry, of the 52d regiment, with the delivery of this
letter, who, I hope, may be permitted to see Gen. Prescott.
To Nicholas Cooke, Esq., &c, &c, &c.
Capt. Henry Barry to the Governor of Rhode Island.
, July 12th, 1777.
Sir : — I having the honor to be charged with dispatches from Brig. Gen. Smith, for
you; and having it in command, with your permission, to deliver them myself, I must
therefore request the favor of seeing you, and receiving what answer you may be
pleased to return. I have the honor to be with respect, sir,
Your most obedient, humble servant,
HENRY BARRY.
To Nicholas Cooke, Esq., &c, &c, &c.
Stephen Hopkins to Capt. Barry.
In Council, July 12, 1777.
Sir : — The Governor is not in town, and it will be some days before he will be here ;
the gentlemen whom we have sent to negotiate business with you, by cartel, have not
been permitted to land in Newport ; therefore you will not be suffered to come on
shore.
Any letters or messages you are charged with, if you deliver them to Capt. Whip-
ple, they will be duly answered by us. I am, &c. &c,
S. HOPKINS, Pres't pro tern.
To Capt. Barry.
Capt. Barry to Stephen Hopkins.
On board the Providence, >
July 13, 1777. \
Sir: — I have received your letter of yesterday, in answer to mine of the same date,
and must own I feel myself in some degree disappointed in not being suffered on
shore ; especially, as to the desire of personally delivering Gen. Smith's letter.
I had a wish to have seen General Prescott, and received any commands of a private
and family nature he might consider necessary to give me ; and this, I feel assured,
is a favor, if any ways proper, you would readily grant to a gentleman of his rank, and
in his situation.
I herewith transmit you Brigadier General Smith's letter, and wait for your reply ;
and then, if not permitted to land, shall immediately proceed to Newport.
I have the honor to be, with respect, sir,
Your most obedient, humble servant,
HENRY BARRY.
To Stephen Hopkins, Esq., &c, &c, &c,
1777.] AND PROVIDENCE PLANTATIONS. 283
Stephen Hopkins to Capt. Barry.
Providence, July 13th, 1777.
Sir : — Yours, of this date, together with a letter from Gen. Smith, was delivered by
Capt. Whipple.
I am sorry that such a line of conduct has been observed, as to make it not admissi-
ble for you to come on shore. Lieut. D'Auvergne, from Sir Peter Parker, was per-
mitted to be on shore in Providence, and walk the streets ; in return, the gentlemen
we sent were stopped by your ships, which is the only reason that prevents the grati-
fication of your request.
Your letter to Gen. Prescott is delivered him, who is now at private lodgings, upon
his parole. I am, sir, your humble servant,
ST. HOPKINS.
To Capt. Barry.
Henry Marchani, Delegate in the Continental Congress, to the
Governor of Rhode Island.
Philadelphia, July 13th, 1777.
Honored Sir : — I wrote the Governor and Company by the last post, and enclosed
them an order of Congress upon the loan office, state of Rhode Island, &c, for §190,-
000, which I hope will come to hand.
I now enclose Your Honor the resolves of the marine committee, passed March the
25th, 1777, respecting the contract made by some of the officers of Commodore Hop-
kins's fleet, when in Delaware River. As the complaints in consequence of that
contract, have still continued, notwithstanding those resolves were forwarded long ago
to the Continental agents ; by order of the marine committee, I sent a copy of them to
the agent, Mr. Tillinghast, by the last post, supposing it possible they might have mis
carried before. And as I never heard of them, before I left the state, for that reason, I
have enclosed them to Your Honor.
Our accounts from the northward are very unfavorable ; but at the same time, so
confused that no certainty can be collected ; yet we are very apprehensive that Ticon-
deroga is in the hands of the enemy, with all the cannon and stores, if not the garri-
son. To what causes this misfortune must have arisen, time only can unfold. If the
case is so, we are not to despond, but rise with new vigor, and manly fortitude. Let
New England now show her prowess, her vigilance and her every virtue. Let us rise
at once, as though called into one soul. Let us meet the enemy where their ships
cannot avail them ; upon equal ground, and by the blessing of Heaven, success, vic-
tory and honor might attend us.
Let not the Jersey militia have the only honor of ridding their country of the ene-
mies of mankind, by a united, brave efiort. I only wish New England may maintain
that character she hath hitherto entitled herself to.
I have_the honor to subscribe myself,
Your Honor's most obedient, humble servant,
HENRY MARCHANT.
To the Honorable Nicholas Cooke, Esq., Governor, &c.
284 RECORDS OF THE STATE OF RHODE ISLAND [JULY,
The Governor of Rhode Island to Gen, Richard Pigot.
Providence, July 28th, 1777.
Sir: — Soon after His Britannic Majesty's troops took possession of Rhode Island, I
received a letter from Earl Percy, requesting permission for several ladies to go upon
the island ; and assuring me, that upon their being allowed that liberty, he would
grant the same to all such women and children as should incline to come to their
friends upon the main.
In consequence of which, permission hath* been granted to every woman who hath
applied for leave to go to Rhode Island. Notwithstanding this agreement, I am to in-
form you, that although repeated applications have been made for many persons, yet
none have been suffered for a considerable time past, to come from the island.
I need not observe to you, that women and children are not the proper objects of
war ; nor that all civilized nations have agreed to lessen the horrors of it as far as pos-
sible. Yet, in this instance, I cannot forbear saying, that the commanding officers
upon Rhode Island, since Earl Percy, appear to me to have departed from the common
dictates of humanity.
I must therefore renew my application, that those women and children who have
been so repeatedly asked for, may have leave to join their respective husbands, parents,
brethren and friends. For a list of them, I refer you to the letter I have formerly
written to your predecessors in command ; and I beg leave to add the names of Eliza-
beth Prescott, widow; and Alice Allen, wife of Joseph Allen.
I am, sir, your most humble servant,
NICHOLAS COOKE.
To General Pigot.
Gen. Pigot to the Governor of Rhode Island.
Newport, Rhode Island, July 30th, 1777.
Sir : — I was favored with your letter of the 28th, and am sorry you have had the
trouble of making repeated applications for several women and children (whose hus-
bands, parents and friends have left here,) to have leave to go to the main.
Upon looking over General Prescott's papers, I found a copy of the list you men-
tion, and had ordered a flag to be ready to carry as many of them as chose to go. I
will not pretend to say for what reason my predecessors did not immediately comply
with your request, and wby the}' thought it necessary to detain those women and
children in town, but I will venture to assure you neither of them with any justice can
be accused of wanting humanity. Elizabeth Prescott, and the widow Alice Allen shall
have permission to go to the main whenever they make application to me.
I am, sir, your most humble servant,
RICHARD PIGOT.
To Governor Cooke.
1777.] AND PROVIDENCE PLANTATIONS. 285
Proceedings of the General Assembly, held for the State of Rhode
Island and Providence Plantations, at Providence, on the 18lk
day of August, 1777.
His Excellency Nicholas Cooke, Governor.
The Hon. William Bradford, Deputy Governor.
It is voted and resolved, that Mrs. Champlin, wife of Win.
Champlin, of Newport, be permitted to go to the island of
Conanicnt, with her clothing, by way of North Kingstown, un-
der the inspection of the commanding officer upon that post.
Whereas, there was a quantity of sugar taken into pos-
session by this state, and secured in a barn, belonging to the
Hon. William Greene, Esq., in the town of Warwick, in the
possession of Mr. William Bennett, which was ordered by
said state to be for the use of the Continental troops ; this
Assembly being informed that said barn was last night
broken open by some persons unknown, and part of said
sugar taken out and carried away, —
It is therefore resolved, that all persons within said state
are requested to use their best endeavors to discover the per-
petrator of said villainy ; and that whosoever shall discover
the persons who committed said crime, so that they may be
brought to justice, shall be entitled to receive out of the
general treasury the sum of £10, lawful money, for every
person that shall be convicted of said crime.
Whereas, Capt. Ebenezer Adams represented unto this
Assembly, that he lately captured two small arms and ac-
coutrements, on the island of Prudence, belonging to a
party of the enemy, who were taken prisoners, and prayed the
direction of this Assembly, how to dispose of them ; and the
premises being duly considered, —
It is voted and resolved, that this state give up its right
286 RECORDS OP THE STATE OF RHODE ISLAND [AUG.,
in the said arms and accoutrements to the persons who took
the same, to be divided amongst them at the discretion of
Capt. Adams.
It is voted and resolved, that the sheriff for the county of
Kent forthwith remove the sugars at the Fulling Mill, the
property of this state, to the farm of William Greene, Esq.,
in Warwick ; and that the same be placed with the other
sugars heretofore removed to said farm, under a sufficient
guard.
It is voted and resolved, that the proceedings of the town
council of the town of East Greenwich, respecting the sugar,
coffee and rum, taken into custody by the constable of said
town, said to be the property of Mr. Robert Stevens, Jr., be
stayed until further orders from this Assembly.
It is voted and resolved, that the Honorable William
Bradford, and Stephen Hopkins, Esqs., Henry Ward and
Paul Mumford, Esqs., be, and they are hereby, appointed a
committee, to draft a bill for the better supply of the troops
raised by this state, agreeably to the recommendation from
the committee lately convened at Springfield, and the former
resolutions of this Assembly ; and that they make report as
soon as may be.
It is voted and resolved, that Mr. Griffin Greene, paymas-
ter to one of the Continental battalions, be empowered to
draw £300, lawful money, out of the general treasury, for
paying the troops in said battalion ; and that he re-pay the
same, whenever he shall have received money for the pur-
pose aforesaid, or on demand.
It is voted and resolved, that Mr. Daniel Deval be chosen
captain ; and Mr. David Gifford, lieutenant, of Maj. Munro's
company ; and that they draw pay from the 10th day of
June last, they having been on duty from that time.
It is voted and resolved, that six hogsheads of the sugar
at the Fulling Mill, the property of this state, be immedi-
ately forwarded to Peekskill, for the use of the troops raised
by this state.
That the persons appointed to dispose of the same, be
1777.] AND PROVIDENCE PLANTATIONS. 287
empowered to exchange said sugars, or a part thereof, for
any other articles which may be necessary for the use of the
said troops ; and that Mr. Matthew Manchester be appointed
to procure teams for removing the same, accordingly.
It is voted and resolved, that Major Munro be, and he is
hereby, empowered to enlist eighteen men, in addition to
those already enlisted into his company, in the boat service,
to serve for the same term, and be entitled to the same
bounty, pay and rations, as those who shall enlist into the
fifteen months' brigade.
That he enlist the men aforesaid, from any town within
this state ; and that upon their enlisting and entering the
said company, they shall be reckoned to the towns of which
they are inhabitants, in the same manner as though they
had enlisted into the fifteen months' brigade, and shall be
so reckoned towards discharging the militia of such town
from present duty.
Whereas, the Honorable Continental Congress of the
United States, on the 5th day of July, A. D. 1777, did by
their order, drawn upon Joseph Clarke, Esq., commissioner
of the loan office, for the state of Rhode Island and Provi-
dence Plantations, direct him to pay unto the General As-
sembly of said state, or their order, $190,000, it being ad-
vanced for the use of said state, and the Assembly to be ac-
countable,—
Wherefore resolved, that His Excellency Nicholas Cooke,
Esq., Governor of this state, be, and he is hereby, empow-
ered/and requested to receive the said sum of $190,000, of
said Joseph Clarke, Esq., as commissioner of the loan office,
within this state, and pay the same unto the general treasu-
rer of this state, taking his receipt therefor.
Whereas, Henry Ward, Esq., presented unto this Assem-
bly, the following report and account, to wit :
288 RECORDS OF THE STATE OF RHODE ISLAND [AuG.?
Report of Henry Ward, appointed by the General Assembly of
Rhode Island, to solicit aid of the State of Massachusetts.
To the Honorable the General Assembly of the state of Rhode Island and Providence
Plantations, now sitting :
The subscriber, who was appointed to apply to the General Assembly of Massachu-
setts Bay for aid, begs leave to report :
That on the 10th day of July he proceeded to Boston, and the General Assembly
not being in session, applied to the Council ; who, having taken his representation into-
.consideration, passed a resolve for sending, for the defence of this state, two regiments
of seven hundred and twenty-eight men each, to continue for six months ; and until
they should come, for sending one regiment of militia, which he herewith, presents.
That being of opinion it was necessary for the then present defence, that a larger aid
should be sent from that state, he gave in the memorial, wihch he also* lays before you ;
and that the Council having deliberated upon the same, assured the subscriber, that
they would do every thing in their power to forward the men ordered, with the great-
est possible expedition, and give orders to the officers of the militia contiguous to this
state, to hold themselves in readiness to march at a moment's warning, to- the assist-
ance of this state, in case of an attack.
He begs leave to submit this report, and is, with all respect, —
Your Honors' most obedient, humble servant,
HENRY WARD.
August 19, 1777.
It is voted and resolved, that Sarah Greene, Jemima
Howland and Sarah Remington, be permitted to return to
the town of Jamestown ; and Priscilla Rogers and Susannah.
Gardner, to the island of Rhode Island, under the inspection
and direction of the commanding officer of the second regi-
ment of militia of the county of Kings ; and they are per-
mitted to carry with them their necessary apparel.
It is voted and resolved, that the bounty and encourage-
ment allowed to the non-commissioned officers and privates,
who should enlist into the fifteen months' brigade, or boat
service, be not allowed to any who shall enlist into said
brigade, or boat service, from and after the expiration of
eighteen days after the rising of this Assembly ; and that a
copy hereof, be transmitted to the several colonels in said
brigade.
It is voted and resolved, that the wages due to the fifteen
months' brigade, until the 10th day of August inst., be paid!
them by the committees of safety within this state.
1777.] AND PROVIDENCE PLANTATIONS. 289
Be it enacted by this General Assembly, and by the au-
thority thereof it is enacted, that the act entitled " An act
to prevent monopoly and oppression, by excessive and un-
reasonable prices, for many of the necessaries and conven-
iences of life ; and for preventing engrossers, and for the
better supply of our troops in the army with such necessa-
ries as may be wanted ;" and another act passed at May
second session last, laying an embargo upon rum, sugar,
molasses and other articles therein enumerated, be, and the
same are hereby, repealed.
Whereas, the Honorable the Continental Congress have
drawn an order in favor of this state, on the commissioner
of the loan office, within the same, for $190,000 ; and
whereas, there is not money sufficient in said office for dis-
charging said order, and certificates are wanted for procur-
ing the same, —
It is therefore voted and resolved, that His Honor the
Governor be, and he is hereby, requested to make applica-
tion to our delegate in Congress, that certificates may be
forwarded as soon as may be.
Whereas, several towns within this state, have neglected
to apportion the tax assessed upon the inhabitants of said
state, in March last, —
It is therefore voted and resolved, that said towns be em-
powered to apportion the same, and return a copy of the
lists thereof, to the general treasurer ; who is hereby em-
powered and directed to issue his warrants to the collectors
of the said towns, in the same manner as though said tax
had been apportioned, and a list of the same had been made
out and returned, within the time limited by law.
It is voted and resolved, that Mr. Jacob Goff be, and he is
hereby, empowered to purchase in behalf of this state, a lot
of land, at a proper distance from the powder mill, and take
a deed of the same to the general treasurer, for the use of
this state.
That he build a house thereon, suitable for his family, at
the expense of the state.
vol, vjii, 37
290 RECORDS OF THE STATE OF RHODE ISLAND [AUG.,
That Caleb Harris, Esq., be, and he is hereby, appointed
to assist to superintend the business, and get it done in the
cheapest and best manner he can ; and that the cost of the
said house and lot of land do not exceed the sum of £200,
lawful money ; which sum the said Jacob is empowered to
draw out of the general treasury, for the purpose aforesaid.
Whereas, Lieutenant Colonel William Barton, with a
number of officers and soldiers under his command, lately
made an expedition to the island of Rhode Island, and in
the most prudent and gallant manner happily made prison-
ers of, and brought off, Major General Prescott, his aid-
de-camp, who was of the rank of major, and a private
soldier ; and whereas, this Assembly, at their session in
March last, as an encouragement for an expedition on
Rhode Island, offered rewards for the captures of officers
and soldiers, who should be made prisoners in said expedi-
tion, provided, the same should be made in a limited time,
which is expired, by which act the rewards for the taking
such prisoners, would amount to $1,120; and this Assem-
bly being desirous at all times of rewarding distinguished
merit, —
Do vote and resolve, and it is voted and resolved, that
the said sum of $1,120 be allowed and paid out of the gen-
eral treasury into hands of the said William Barton, to be
divided between him and the other commissioned and non-
commissioned officers and soldiers of the said party, in pro-
portion to the wages of the said officers and soldiers.
And it is further voted and resolved, that the thanks
of this Assembly be, and they hereby are, given to the said
Col. Barton, and to the other officers and soldiers of the said
party, for their brave execution of that enterprize.
And it is further voted and resolved, that this Assembly
will recommend the said Col. Barton, and the other commis-
sioned officers of the said party, to the notice of His Excel-
lency General Washington, for promotion, according to their
merit.
It is voted and resolved, that the delegates appointed, or
1777-] AND PROVIDENCE PLANTATIONS. 291
who may be appointed, to represent this state in Congress,
be, and they or either of them are hereby, empowered to
represent said state in Congress, until they, or either of
them, shall have due notice of their re-election ; or until the
delegates who may be appointed in their room, shall take
their seats in Congress ; the act directing the election of
said delegates for one year, to the contrary, notwith-
standing.
It is voted and resolved, that Mr. Clark Brown be, and he
is hereby, permitted to subscribe the test, heretofore or-
dered to be subscribed by the inhabitants of this state.
It is voted and resolved, that Daniel Wall be, and he is
hereby, chosen ensign of Captain Phillips's company, in the
brigade raised by this state, for fifteen months, in the room
of Reuben Herrington, who has refused.
It is voted and resolved, that if any person within this
state, not having hitherto subscribed the test or declaration
heretofore prescribed by an act of this Assembly, at the ses-
sion held at Newport, in June, 1776, shall within thirty days
after the rising of this Assembly subscribe the same, before
the Governor, Deputy Governor, an assistant or judge of the
superior or inferior court, or in open town meeting, such
person shall be restored to all his liberties, privileges, fran-
chises and immunities ; and shall as fully enjoy the same, as
though he had subscribed the said test or declaration in due
season ; and that no person, after the expiration of said thirty
days, shall be admitted to subscribe the same, without spe-
cial permission first had from this Assembly.
It is voted and resolved, that Messrs. Sylvester Gardner
and Stephen Champlin be, and they are hereby, permitted
to remove the hay belonging to them, and now stacked at
the extreme part of Point Judith, to places of safety.
It is voted and resolved, that the Continental officers and
soldiers, raised by this state, be supplied in camp with rum,
sugar and coffee, at the prices affixed to those articles in the
act against monopoly and oppression, passed by this Assem-
bly, at the second session, held in December last, with the
292 RECORDS OF THE COLONY OF RHODE ISLAND [AUG.,
additional charge of transportation ; and that the council of
war, appointed to act in the recess of the General Assembly,
provide and send forward the same to the paymasters of
the two battalions, who are hereby directed to deliver out
the same at the rates aforesaid ; and to deduct the amount
of what each person shall receive out of his pay.
It is further voted and resolved, that the committee of
safety procure, as soon as possible, and upon the best terms
they can, the articles herein after mentioned, for the use of
the soldiers raised by this state, that is to say :
The Hon. Wm. Bradford, Esq., shall procure seventy pair
of shoes, one hundred and forty pair of stockings, one hun-
dred and forty shirts, thirty-five coats, thirty-five pair of
breeches and thirty-five hats.
John Smith, Esq., and Col. Daniel Tillinghast, shall procure
four hundred and eighty-two pair of shoes, nine hundred and
sixty-four pair of stockings, nine hundred and sixty-four
shirts, two hundred and forty-one coats, two hundred and
forty-one pair of breeches, and two hundred and forty-one
hats.
Col. John Cooke shall procure eighty-eight pair of shoes,
one hundred and seventy-six pair of stockings, one hundred
and seventy-six shirts, forty-four coats, forty-four pair of
breeches, and forty-four hats.
John Northup and James Congdon, 3d, Esqs., shall pro-
cure three hundred and thirty-four pair of shoes, six hun-
dred and sixty-eight pair of stockings, six hundred and
sixty-eight shirts, one hundred sixty-seven coats, one hun-
dred and sixty-seven pair of breeches, and one hundred and
sixty-seven hats.
Stephen Mumford, Esq., shall procure two hundred and
twenty-seven pair of shoes, four hundred and fifty-four pair
of stockings, four hundred and fifty-four shirts, one hundred
and thirteen coats, one hundred and thirteen pair of breech-
es, and one hundred and thirteen hats.
That one-half part of the said articles be appropriated for
the use of the two Continental battalions, and be sent for-
1777.] AND PROVIDENCE PLANTATIONS. 293
ward as soon as may be, under the direction of the said
council of war ; and that the other half be appropriated to
the use of the brigade raised by this state for fifteen
months, and be delivered out by the committee of safety, to
those persons who shall be most in want thereof.
It is further voted and resolved, that the families of the
field, commissioned and staff officers, as well those belonging
to the said brigade, as to the said Continental battalions,
who are resident in this state, be supplied with such neces-
sary articles as are enumerated in the said act against mo-
nopoly and oppression, if to be procured at the rates
in the said act affixed, with the charge of transporta-
tion, to the amount of one-quarter part of their wages ; they
lodging money to procure the same.
That the families of the non-commissioned officers and
privates shall be supplied in like manner, to the amount of
their wages.
That the town council of each town in this state be, and
they are hereby, empowered and directed to appoint a suit-
able person to supply the said officers and soldiers, as afore-
said, in their respective towns ; who shall be allowed two-
and-a-half per cent, for doing the business, to be paid out of
the general treasury.
That the persons so appointed, procure the articles for
the purposes, aforesaid, upon the best terms they can ; and
that the difference between the prices at which the said ar-
ticles shall be purchased and delivered, be paid out of the
general treasury.
And it is further voted and resolved, that these resolu-
tions shall not revoke the appointment of John Reynolds,
Esq., to purchase clothing for the soldiers : but that he con-
tinue to procure as large a quantity as may be, upon the
best terms he can.
Resolved, that it be, and hereby is, earnestly recommend-
ed to all the farmers and others within this state, who have
raised flax the present season, that they be careful to pre-
serve all the seed thereof, as in all probability it will soon
294 RECORDS OF THE STATE OF RHODE ISLAND [AUG,
become an essential article for exportation ; and that this
resolve be published three weeks successively in the Provi-
dence Gazette.
It is voted and resolved, that a tax of £32,000, be as-
sessed upon the inhabitants of this state, to be levied, col-
lected and paid into the general treasury, by the 1st day of
December next.
That the same be proportioned agreeably to the estimate
upon which the last tax was proportioned.
That the poll tax be sixpence for every £1,000 ; and that
the standing committee proportion the same, and draught a
bill accordingly.
It is voted and resolved, that the row-galley Washington
be rigged as a schooner; and that Mr. John Smith and
Daniel Tillinghast, Esq., furnish rigging and sails necessary
for that purpose.
Whereas, our relentless enemies have possessed them-
selves of the towns of Newport, Portsmouth, Middletown
and Jamestown, whereby the freemen of those towns are
deprived of the privilege of meeting at their usual places
for the choice of deputies to represent them in General As-
sembly,—
It is therefore resolved, that those persons who were
known to be freemen in either of those towns, to the num-
ber of seven, at the least, from each town respectively, be,
and they are hereby, authorized and empowered to meet at
the places hereafter mentioned, to wit :
Those of the town of Newport, at the state house, in
Providence.
Those of Portsmouth and Middletown, at the house of
William Durfee, in Tiverton.
Those of Jamestown, at the house of Matthew Allen, in
North Kingstown, on the third Wednesday of September
next, at ten o'clock, in the forenoon, for the purpose afore-
said ; they conducting such choice agreeably to the usages
and practices in their respective towns, heretofore ; and that
this resolve be published in the next Providence Gazette.
1777.] AND PROVIDENCE PLANTATIONS. 295
It is voted and resolved, that the Honorable William
Bradford, Esq., be, and he is hereby, empowered to draAV
£1,000, lawful money, out of the general treasury ; and
that he account for the same, as one of the committee of
safety, for this state.
It is voted and resolved, that John Northup, Esq., be, and
he is hereby, empowered to draw £1,500, lawful money, out
of the general treasury ; and that he account for the same,
as one of the committee of safety.
Whereas, this Assembly, at the session held in April last,
in commiseration of the unhappy condition of the inhabi-
tants of the towns of Newport, Portsmouth, Jamestown and
Middletown, who had left the said towns and taken refuge
npon the main, in this state, passed an act that they should
not be taxed for their personal estate ; and whereas, it ap-
pears that many of the said inhabitants are possessed of
considerable personal estate ; and as all persons who derive
protection from the state, ought to pay their just proportion
of the public expenses, —
It therefore voted and resolved, that the said act be, and
hereby is, repealed ; and that the inhabitants of the said
towns shall be assessed in the several towns where they re-
spectively reside, for their polls and estates (excepting for
such parts of their estates as are in possession of the enemy),
in the same manner and proportion as the other inhabitants
of the said towns where they reside, are assessed.
It is voted and resolved, that the sheriff for the county of
Kings, dispose of the old court house in Kings county, on
the fourth Wednesday of September next ; and that he ad-
vertise the same, in the Providence Gazette ; and the gen-
eral treasurer is hereby empowered and directed to give a
warranty deed to the purchaser thereof, in behalf of this
state.
Whereas, this state is now blockaded by a considerable
naval and land force, and thereby deprived of the advan-
tages of importing grain of the several kinds necessary for
the consumption of its inhabitants, whereby they are under
296 RECORDS OF THE STATE OF RHODE ISLAND [AUG,
the necessity of procuring large supplies from the neighbor-
ing states of Massachusetts Bay and Connecticut, for their
support; and whereas, great scarcity of those articles
may be occasioned by distilling the same into spirituous
liquors, —
It is therefore voted and resolved, that His Honor the
Governor, immediately after the rising of this Assembly,
write to the Assemblies of the states, aforesaid, enclosing to
them a copy of an act of this state, passed at the present
session, entitled " An act to prevent the distilling, into any
kind of spirit whatever, wheat, Indian corn, rye, barley, oats
or cider ;" and recommending to them the passing such act
or acts similar thereto, as may prevent any difficulty in
the supplying this state with those necessary articles ; and
that the act aforesaid, be published in the next Providence
Gazette.
Whereas, a number of officers, belonging to the brigade
raised by this state, preferred a petition, and represented
unto this Assembly that, for the safety of the states of
America in general, and of this in particular, with the en-
couragement held out by their constituents, they entered
into the service.
That they engaged that the encouragement made to the
soldiers should be fulfilled ; who in consequence thereof,
and from a principle of freedom, and for the public preser-
vation, cheerfully entered into the service.
That, to their great mortification, they find themselves
obliged humbly to remonstrate to this Assembly the situa-
tion of the brigade.
That the soldiers in general are very poorly provided
with clothing, so that their appearance on the parade is
rather miserable than formidable ; and in consequence
thereof, they cannot exact from them such duties as the
service naturally requires.
That in consequence of the deficiency of camp equipage,
they are not prepared either for attack or defence.
That amidst the whole, the rapid augmentation of the
1777.] AND PROVIDENCE PLANTATIONS. 297
prices of every necessary article of life, fills them with the
greatest anxiety for themselve and their families, who de-
pend chiefly on their wages for support ; and that the sol-
diers expected to have enjoyed the same benefits as those
in the Continental army, who are now plentifully supplied
with clothing and other necessaries, which they are suffer-
ing for the want of; and thereupon prayed this Assembly
to seriously consider the matters which are here recited,
and in commiseration to the brigade, to rectify those real
evils which lie so heavily upon the in ; and the premises be-
ing duly considered, —
It is voted and resolved, that the said petition be re-
ceived ; and that this Assembly will take the most effectual
and speedy measures for procuring and furnishing the said
officers and soldiers with the articles requested, agreeably
to the prayer of the said petition.
It is voted and resolved, that Capt. Tim®thy Coffin be,
and he is hereby, directed to proceed to Bedford, and there
take out of the sloop Diamond, of which he is master, two
hundred barrels of turpentine, and lodge the same in some
convenient place.
That he proceed with the said sloop to Acoxet, and unlade
the remainder of the cargo, and store the same in safe
places.
That Col. Pardon Gray be, and he is hereby, empowered
and directed to take the said sloop and remainder of the
cargo into his care.
That he endeavor to procure a cargo of flax-seed, for her
to make a voyage to Europe ; and that Mr. Thomas Ste-
vens, Jr., be, and he is hereby, empowered and directed to
sell, upon the best terms he can for the state, the said two
hundred barrels of turpentine, ordered to be landed at
Bedford ; and pay the amount thereof, into the general
treasury.
It is voted and resolved, that the families of the officers
in the Continental battalions, and fifteen months' brigade
raised by this state, be furnished with such necessary arti^
vol. viii. 38
298 RECORDS OF THE STATE OF RHODE ISLAND [AUG.,
cles as are enumerated in the act to prevent monopoly and
oppression, at the prices affixed in said act, to the amount
of one-quarter part of their wages, upon their lodging
money sufficient for said purpose in the hands of the com-
mittees appointed to supply the families of soldiers.
It is voted and resolved, that the council of war be, and
they are hereby, directed upon the application of the per-
sons appointed by the town council in the several towns
within this state, for the purpose of supplying the families
of the officers and soldiers in their respective towns, and
producing a certificate from the town clerk of their respec-
tive towns, of the number to be supplied, agreeably to an
act of this state, to give orders on the general treasurer for
such sum or sums of money as they think necessary to
make such provision.
It is voted and resolved, that Mr. John Smith sell, for the
most he can get, a quantity of cheese in his hands belong-
ing to this state.
It is voted and resolved, that Mr. John Smith be, and he
is hereby, empowered to draw £1,000, lawful money, out of
the general treasury ; and that he account for the same, as
one of the committee of safety.
It is voted and resolved, that any two persons within this
state, subject by law to bear arms, who shall procure one
good, able-bodied recruit to enter the Continental service
for the term of three years, or during the present war, shall
be exempted from actual service, saving in cases of general
alarm, during the time for which such recruit shall enlist ;
and every such recruit shall be entitled to the Continental
bounty and other Continental allowances.
Provided always, that no person or persons shall be ex-
empted as aforesaid, until such recruits by them respectively
procured, shall have passed muster, agreeably to the regula-
tions for raising the Continental army.
In pursuance of a resolve of the Honorable the Continent-
al Congress, —
It is voted and resolved, that proper persons be appointed
1777.] AND PROVIDENCE PLANTATIONS. 290
in each town, within this state, to recruit men to fill up the
Continental battalions raising within this state.
That the persons appointed, give good security to the
town treasurers of their respective towns, for the faithful
discharge of their duty, and rendering just accounts of all
public moneys that shall come to their hands; and that
they be allowed for each able-bodied recruit, by them raised,
who shall enlist for three years or during the war, the sum
of $8, in full for their trouble and expense.
It is further voted and resolved, that the following per-
sons be appointed for the several towns, for the purpose
aforesaid, to wit :
Persons appointed as Recruiting Officers, to Recruit Men to Fill
up the Battalion Raising within the State.
Newport — Messrs. Henry Dayton and Philip Morse.
Providence — Messrs. Joseph Hoyle and John Beverly.
Warwick — Messrs. Robert Rhodes and Waterman Tibbets.
Westerly — Capt. Job Pemberton.
North Kingstown — Mr. Peter Wright and Major Sylvester
Gardner.
South Kingstown — Col. Thomas Potter and Capt. Samuel
Potter.
East Greenwich — Col. Richard Fry and William Peirce,
Esq., and Major Thomas Tillinghast.
Jamestown — Benjamin Underwood, Esq.
Smithfield — Messrs. John Angell and Peleg Arnold.
Scituate — Timothy Hopkins, Esq. ; and Messrs. Stephen
Kimball, Stephen Sheldon and Jonathan Knight, Jr.
Glocester — Captain Asa Kimball and Mr. Nathaniel
Blackmar.
Charlestown — Capt. Joseph Congdon.
Coventry — Messrs. William Love, David Brayton and
Capt. Thomas Gorton.
West Greenwich — Capt, Joseph Hopkins.
300 RECORDS OF THE STATE OF RHODE ISLAND [AUG.,
Exeter — Mr. Stephen Wightman and Captain Samuel
Gorton.
Bristol— Mr. William Throop.
Tiverton — Col. John Cooke.
Little Compton — Mr. Nathaniel Church.
Warren — Col. Nathan Miller.
Cumberland — Col. George Peck and Mr. Enoch Tower.
Richmond — Capt. Richard Bailey, Jr., and Mr. Jonathan
Maxson.
Cranston — Mr. Randall Briggs.
Hopkinton — Capt. Thomas Wells.
Johnston — Colonel John Waterman and Mr. Richard
Eddy.
North Providence — Capt. Thomas Olney.
Barrington — Major Peleg Heath.
And it is further voted and resolved, that said persons be
empowered to take up and secure all deserters who shall
come within their respective districts, and the officers of the
militia are directed to give them such assistance as shall be
required ; and for every deserter so taken up and secured,
that $5 be allowed to the person by whom he shall be ap-
prehended.
And it is further voted and resolved, that for the encour-
agement of men to enter into said service, they shall be at
liberty at the time of their enlistments, to make choice of
the battalion or company in which they will serve, provided
said battalion or company is not full ; if it is, they may
choose any other battalion or company ; which shall be en-
tered against their names, and returned to the officer ap-
pointed to receive said recruits ; who shall, at the same time
they are sent to join their corps, transmit the same to the
general or commanding officer.
And it is further voted and resolved, that if any of the per-
sons appointed by this resolve, shall not accept their appoint-
ment, that the deputies of said towns be, and they are
1777.] AND PROVIDENCE PLANTATIONS. 301
hereby, empowered to appoint others in their room ; and
that a copy hereof, be transmitted to the several town
clerks within this state, within ten days after the rising of
this Assembly.
An Act assessing and apportioning a rate or tax of £32,-
000, lawful money, upon the inhabitants of this state.
[See printed Schedule.]
Voted and resolved, that the following accounts be paid
out of the general treasury, viz. :
Bills Ordered to he Paid.
£ s. d.
Henry Ward, for his expenses to Boston, and for his time 10 00 00
Benjamin Greene, for hay, provisions, wood and liquors for the use of the
troops on Warwick Neck 27 17 04
Benjamin Greene, for wood taken at divers times from his wood lot, and for
cutting and carting the same, by order of Col. John Waterman 64 02 02
Jeremiah Utter, for a horse impressed for the artillery 12 00 00
Edward Wells, for repairs on the state's guns 27 1-4 04
Jonathan Pierce, for sundry tools lost upon Rhode Island, at the time it was
taken possession of by the British 22 03 04
Stephen Hopkins, for his time, his servant, two horses and a carriage; and
for his expenses to and from Springfield, to meet the commissioners
from the other New England states 23 12 00
Paul Mumford, for the same , 18 00 10
William Bradtord, for the same 21 03 10
Stephen Hopkins, William Bradford and Henry Ward, for their services and
expenses in attending the convention of the New England states, held at
Providence, in December, 1776 ; and January, 1777 13 10 00
Lieut. Thomas Hughes, a wounded officer, for board and expenses 17 12 00
God save the United States of America.
>02 RECORDS OF THE STATE OF RHODE ISLAND [SEPT.,
Proceedings of the General Assembly, held for the State of Rhode
Island and Providence Plantations, at South Kingstown, on
Monday, the 22d day of September, 1777.
His Excellency Nicholas Cooke, Governor.
The Hon. William Bradford, Deputy Governor.
Whereas, permission hath been granted by the council of
war, to Dinah Remington to proceed in a flag of truce
to the island of Jamestown, under the direction of Colonel
Dyer-
It is voted and resolved, that said flag be for the present
detained ; and that Col. Dyer do not dispatch the same un-
til further orders from this Assembly; or, in the recess
thereof, from the council of war.
It is voted and resolved, that the sheriff of Kings county
sell and dispose of the old court house, in the said county, this
day, at public vendue, to the highest bidder ; that he give a
bill of sale thereof, to the purchaser ; who is to remove the
same off the lot whereon it stands, within six months from
the date ; and not to improve it where it now stands ; and
that the sheriff do not sell or dispose of the said lot of land ;
any thing to the contrary hereof, in any wise, notwith-
standing.
Be it enacted by this General Assembly, and by the au«
thority thereof it is hereby enacted, that when and as often
as it happens that the sheriff of any county within this
state, who is to execute any writ or process from the mari-
time court, is any wise interested in the effect of such writ
or process, that it shall, and may, be lawful for the judge of
the said maritime court, and he is hereby directed to issue
all such writs and processes to any or either of the town
sergeants in any of the towns within the county where such
1777.] AND PROVIDENCE PLANTATIONS. 303
sheriff who is interested, resides; and the said town ser-
geants are hereby fully empowered, authorized and di-
rected, to execute the same, to all intents and purposes, as
fully and effectually as the sheriff might, ought or could do,
if he was not interested in said process.
It is voted and resolved, that the persons appointed to
deliver the salt, heretofore proportioned to the several
towns within this state, forthwith pay the amount of the
salt by them respectively delivered, into the general treasu-
ry ; and all persons who have received money out of the
treasury, either for purchasing of guns, or enlisting of men
into the Continental battalions or fifteen months' service,
are hereby required to render an account thereof, to the
council of war ; and if any person shall neglect to pay said
money, or render an account of the money by them re-
ceived for the purposes aforesaid, for the space of thirty
days next from the rising of this Assembly, the attorney
general is directed to commence actions against such delin-
quents, to the first court authorized to hear and determine
the same ; and that this resolve be published in the next
Providence Gazette.
It is voted and resolved, that the several collectors of
rates in this state be, and they are hereby, directed to re-
ceive Continental bills, as well as bills of this state, for the
taxes already ordered to be levied ; that the general treas-
urer exchange all such Continental bills as shall be paid into
the general treasury, for the bills of this state, as often as
he hath opportunity ; and that a copy of this vote be in-
serted in the Providence Gazette.
It is voted and resolved, that the colonels or other field
officers, commanding in the counties of Kings and Kent,
forthwith call forth as many of the militia and alarm men,
in addition to those already doing duty, as they shall judge
proper ; in order that such suitable guards be placed upon
the shores, in said counties, as will prevent any persons go-
ing upon any of the islands in possession of the enemy.
304 RECORDS OF THE STATE OF RHODE ISLAOT) [SEPT.?
It is voted and resolved, that His Honor the Deputy Gov-
ernor, Henry Ward, William Channing, Jonathan Arnold
and Rowse J. Helme, Esqs., be a committee, they, or the
major part of them, to form a plan of government for this
state, and lay the same before this Assembly as soon as con-
veniently may be.
Whereas, Capt. Samuel Carr, Benjamin Underwood and
Christopher Ellery, Esqs., in behalf of themselves, and many
of the late inhabitants of the towns of Jamestown, Newport,
Portsmouth, Midclletown and New Shoreham, preferred a
petition and represented unto this Assembly, that in the be-
ginning; of this unnatural, cruel war between Great Britain
and the colonies, they, with many of the inhabitants of said
towns, impressed with sentiments of duty and affection for
their country, and paying due obedience to the several re-
solves of the state, at great trouble and expense transported
themselves, and such part of their property as escaped the
destruction of the enemy (the real excepted), to the main;
where they lived on a part of the small substance brought
with them; some almost one, and others more than two
years.
That before, and at the time, they, and their constituents,
removed to the main, when they were in a capacity of pay-
ing, by having the improvement of their real as well as person-
al estates, there were no taxes levied on them ; since which
time, the enemy has taken full possession of them, thereby
rendering them unable to pay the taxes now levied, or
about to be levied on them, and their constituents, the in-
habitants of said towns ; many of whom, are now in great
want of some of the real necessaries of life.
That since they left their habitations, and by order of
the General Assembly removed to the main, they have,
with the greatest alacrity, done every thing in their power
to obstruct and defeat the measures of the enemy.
They have taken their monthly, and other rounds of
duty, to guard and defend the shores, equally with the rest
1777.] AND PROVIDENCE PLANTATIONS. 305
of the inhabitants ; and have furnished their quotas of the
Continental and fifteen months' battalions. And that not-
withstanding they have been excluded their proportions of
flour and iron, and when the same was sent into the towns
to be divided, it was done in such manner, in some towns,
as utterly excluded any of the inhabitants of the islands
from any part thereof; and thereupon prayed this Assem-
bly to take the same into consideration, and exempt them
from paying any tax for their persons or personal property,
until they can remove back and improve their real estates in
safety ; or otherwise, if they should be held to pay any tax
for their personal estates, that they have credit given them
for the tax so paid, as part of the proportion of the town to
which they respectively belong ; and the premises being
duly considered, —
It is voted and resolved, that all the late inhabitants who
have removed from the towns of Jamestown, Newport,
Portsmouth, Middletown and New Shoreham, to the main,
be not rated in any rate or tax in this state, for their per-
sons or personal estates, the stock excepted ; and that if
any of the inhabitants of said towns be already rated in
any town, which rates are not as yet collected, that the
same be remitted to the persons so rated.
Resolved, that one-half of the militia, alarm, independent,
and artillery companies, be drafted from the militia, alarm,
independent and artillery companies, within this state, on
the 27th day of September inst.
That they march to, and rendezvous at, such place or
places as shall be directed by the Honorable Major General
Spencer, on the 1st day of October next ; and that they re-
main and continue to do duty for the space of one month
from the said 1st day of October, unless sooner discharged
by General Spencer ; any resolve to the contrary hereof,
notwithstanding.
And the colonels, or in their absence, the next command-
ing officer of the several regiments of militia, and command-
ers of said companies, are directed to call together by
306 RECORDS OF THE STATE OF RHODE ISLAND [SEPT.,
companies their respective regiments and companies, on
Saturday, the said 27th day of September, at such place as
shall be appointed by them, and may be most convenient
for the said regiments and companies ; and that they cause
said draft then to be made ; and that the persons who shall
be drafted as aforesaid, be duly equipped with arms and ac-
coutrements, according to law,
It is further resolved, that said one-half of the militia,
alarm, independent and artillery companies, who shall be
drafted as aforesaid, be formed into one brigade, to consist
of six regiments ; each regiment to be commanded by one
colonel, one lieutenant colonel, and one major ; and to con-
sist of eight companies ; each company to be led by one cap-
tain, one lieutenant, and one ensign.
That said brigade, regiments and companies, be formed
under the direction of the Honorable Major General
Spencer ; and Ezekiel Cornell, Esq., is hereby appointed
brigadier general to command the same.
Provided nevertheless, and it is further resolved, that
General Spencer be empowered to form said men, who shall
be drafted as aforesaid, into two brigades, if he should think
it necessary, and most for the public service ; and in that
case, that one of the said brigades be commanded by the
said Ezekiel Cornell ; and that the other brigade be com-
manded by an officer who shall be appointed by the council
of war, by and with the advice of General Spencer ; and the
council of war are empowered to appoint the other proper
officers to said brigade, who shall be entitled to the same
pay and rations as officers of the same rank in the Conti-
nental service.
And for the encouragement of the persons who shall be
drafted as aforesaid, to exert themselves in defence of their
country, —
It is further resolved, that each non-commissioned officer
and private who shall be drafted as aforesaid, and shall do
their tour of duty, shall be allowed, as a bounty, forty shil-
lings, lawful money, for one month's service, and in the
1777.] AND PROVIDENCE PLANTATIONS. 307
same proportion for a shorter time ; and the same wages
and rations as are allowed the non-commissioned officers
and privates in the Continental service,
And it is further resolved, that the town council, or any
one of them, of the several towns within this state, in which
a commissary doth not reside, furnish the men drafted with-
in their respective towns, with three days' provisions ; and
that they forward to the place of their rendezvous, the camp
utensils necessary for their use.
It is further resolved, that if any person who shall be
drafted as aforesaid, shall appear not duly equipped, that the
commanding officer of the company to which he belongs, be
empowered to impress a gun, or whatever accoutrements he
may stand in need of
It is further resolved, that if any colonel of said regiments,
or commanders of said companies, shall neglect to call to-
gether said regiments or companies, or to cause said draft to
be made, agreeably to this resolve ; or if any officer, to whom
a warrant shall be directed for the purpose aforesaid, shall
neglect to do his duty, every such delinquent officer shall
pay as a fine, to the use of this state, the sum of £50, lawful
money ; and if any person who shall be drafted as afore-
said, shall neglect to do duty, agreeably to this resolve,
or to hire a man to do his tour of duty, the town coun-
cil of the town in which such person resides, are empowered
to hire a man in the room of such delinquent person, and to
provide in manner as is directed by an act for the relief of
tender consciences.
And it is further resolved, that if by any means said regi-
ments and companies cannot be called together, and said draft
made, on the said 27th day of September, that in that case,
said regiments and companies be called together, and said
draft be made, on the 28th day of September inst.
And it is further resolved, that the field officers of the
several regiments of militia, and commanders of the several
independent, alarm and artillery companies, repair to the
town of Providence, on Monday, the 29th day of September
308 RECORDS OF THE STATE OF RHODE ISLAND [OCT,,
inst, then and there to receive the orders of the council of
war, or General Spencer.
It is further resolved, that copies hereof, be forthwith trans-
mitted to the colonels of the several regiments of militia, and
commanders of independent, alarm and artillery companies,
within this state.
Voted and resolved, that the following accounts be paid
out of the treasury, viz. :
Bills Ordered to be Paid.
£ s. d.
Edward Welles, for cleaning small arms belonging to the state 15 08 0
Benjamin Arnold, for collecting and delivering to the committee of safety the
town of Warwick's proportion of blankets 2 08 0
Dr. Robert Perigo, for medicines furnished Col. Stanton's regiment 114 6
Josias Lyndon, for his services as clerk of the lower house 2 08 9
Ebenezer Tefft, for cleaning and sweeping the state house in Kings county,
and for his attendance on the General Assembly 1 01 0
John Northup, one of the committee of safety, authorized to draw from the
general treasury 500 00 0
God save the United States of America.
Proceedings of the General Assembly, held for the State of Rhode
Island and Providence Plantations, at Providence, on Monday,
the 27th day of October, 1777.
His Excellency Nicholas Cooke, Governor.
The Hon. William Bradford, Deputy Governor.
It is voted and resolved, that Ebenezer Slocum, who was
committed to jail in the county of Providence, as a danger-
ous and suspected person, be liberated therefrom.
That he procure sureties to the satisfaction of either of
the judges of the superior court of judicature, &c, to be re-
cognized with him ; the condition of which recognizance
shall be for his good behaviour.
That he shall hold no correspondence with the enemy ;
1777.] AND PROVIDENCE PLANTATIONS. 309
and in general to demean himself as a good and faithful
subject of the United States of America ; and that the said
Ebenezer be, and remain, in the custody of the sheriff for
the county of Kings, until he shall procure sureties, and re-
cognize, as aforesaid.
It is voted and resolved, that Colonel Jabez Bowen be ap-
pointed to wait on Maj. Gen. Spencer, and request of him
a return of the number of men belonging to this state, who
assembled on the late expedition ; and also the number of
men now in service within this state, and when the time for
which they enlisted will expire.
Whereas, Beriah Brown, Esq., presented unto this Assem-
bly, the following report, to wit :
Report of Beriah Brown, Sheriff of Kings County, relative to the
sale of the Court House on Little Best Hill, South Kingstown.
" In obedience to the vote of the General Assembly, 1 did,
on the 24th day of September, A. D. 1777, sell the old court
house, on Little Rest Hill, in South Kingstown, at public
vendue, to Mr. Silas Niles, who was the highest bidder, for
$260 ; and have paid said sum to the general treasurer, and
have taken his receipt for the same.
BERIAH BROWN, Sheriff.
October 30, 1777."
And the said report being duly considered, —
It is voted and resolved, that the same be, and hereby is,
accepted.
It is voted and resolved, that Mr. Nathan Barber be per-
mitted to subscribe the test or declaration, ordered to be
subscribed by the inhabitants of this state.
It is voted and resolved, that Beriah Brown, Esq., sheriff
of the county of Kings, be, and he is hereby, directed to sell
the personal estate now in his possession, lately belong-
ing to Charles Slocum, deceased, at a public vendue, within
forty days after the rising of this Assembly ; and that he
310 RECORDS OF THE STATE OF RHODE ISLAND [OCT.,
pay the money arising from the sale thereof, into the gen-
eral treasury.
Provided nevertheless, that if any person who shall by
law, be entitled to administer on the said estate, shall, with-
in thirty days from the rising of this Assembly, appear and
take out letters of administration on the same, in such case
the said sheriff is directed to deliver two-third parts of the
said estate to such administrator, and take his receipt for
the same ; and dispose of the remaining third part at public
vendue at the time afore mentioned ; and pay the amount
of the sale thereof, into the general treasury.
It is voted and resolved, that John Sayles, Ebenezer
Thompson, Esek Hopkins, Job Randall and Gideon Corn-
stock, Esqs., be, and they are hereby, appointed a commit-
tee, to inquire into the causes of the miscarriage of the late
expedition against the island of Rhode Island ; that Rowse
J. Helme, Esq., attend as their clerk.
That they make application to Major General Spencer
for information respecting the same ; and that they make
report to this Assembly, as soon as may be.
Whereas, Capt. Thomas Hughes laid before this Assembly
a memorandum of sundry articles of clothing, wanted for
the soldiers in Col. Greene's and Col. Angell's battalions ;
which being considered, —
It is voted and resolved, that the said Thomas Hughes
have an order on Daniel Tillinghast, Esq., for the said cloth-
ing, agreeably to his memorandum.
It is voted and resolved, that the Hon. Stephen Hopkins
and Henry Ward, Esqs., be, and they are hereby, appointed
a committee, to confer with Major General Spencer, respect-
ing the best method of supplying the troops now in service
within this state ; and that they request General Spencer
to take the prisoners of war now in jail, under his care and
direction.
It is voted and resolved, that the field officers of the sev-
eral regiments of militia, in the late expedition against the
enemy on Rhode Island, be empowered and directed to call
1777.] AND PROVIDENCE PLANTATIONS. 311
courts martial for the trial of deserters from the said regi-
ments.
That they pass and execute sentence agreeably to the ar-
ticles of war established by Congress, and adopted by this
state, in the same manner as though the said courts had
been convened and sentence passed before the time of their
service expired.
It is voted and resolved, that Peter Phillips, Esq., be, and
he is hereby, permitted to draw out of the general treasury,
the sum of £600, lawful money, towards paying the charges
of carting stores for the late expedition designed against the
enemy on Rhode Island ; which sum he is to account for to
this state.
Whereas, it hath been represented unto this Assembly by
the deputy quartermaster general, by order of Gen. Spen-
cer, that such hath been the rise of every article with which
the soldiers within this state are furnished, that it is impos-
sible to procure the same at the price as heretofore fixed by
this Assembly, without impressing the said articles, in which
way the same has been supplied for some time past, —
It is therefore voted and resolved, that Maj. Gen. Spencer
be requested to give orders for purchasing such necessary ar-
ticles as the army within this state may require, at the most
reasonable prices at which they may be procured; and
if any deduction shall be made in the accounts of articles
so furnished, this state will pay any sum that shall be so
deducted.
It is voted and resolved, that Joseph Underwood, Mary
Underwood, Abigail Holloway, Polly Holloway, Dorcas
Easton, Catharine M'Kinzie, Mary Fowler, Sarah Greene,
Hannah Weeden, Hannah Weeden, Jr., Peleg Weeden,
Phoebe Weeden, Damaris Weeden, Mrs. Grozart and her
two children, Sarah Sweet, daughter of Samuel Sweet, and
Elizabeth Thurston, be permitted to go in a flag of truce
from North Kingstown to the island of Conannicut, under
the care of the commanding officer in the town of North
Kingstown, with their wearing apparel.
312 RECORDS OF THE STATE OF RHODE ISLAND [OCT.,
That Joseph Underwood and Sarah Greene be permitted
to carry each two beds, with the necessary bed clothes.
That the asid flag do not proceed until ten days after the
rising of this Assembly ; and that the same be transacted
without any expense to the state.
Whereas, Mrs. Isabel Marchant, late of Newport, now of
Hopkinton. widow, preferred a petition and represented un-
to this Assembly, that some time since she lent the general
treasurer a sum of money, to supply the necessities of gov-
ernment upon a very pressing occasion ; and that she hath
now an opportunity of making use of the same, to her ad-
vantage ; and thereupon, prayed this Assembly, that the
general treasurer might be directed to pay her the said
sum, by her lent, with the interest due thereon ; and the
premises being duly considered, —
It is voted and resolved, that the prayer of the said peti-
tion be, and the same is hereby, granted.
It is voted and resolved, that John Sayles, Ebenezer
Thompson, Esek Hopkins, Job Randall and Gideon Corn-
stock, Esqs., they, or any three of them, be, and they are
hereby, appointed a committee, to meet with the commit-
tees (if any shall be appointed by the states of Massachu-
setts Bay and Connecticut,) to inquire into the grounds and
reasons of the miscarriage of the late expedition against the
enemy on Rhode Island.
Whereas, by a resolve of this Assembly, passed at the last
session, the persons who had received the salt proportioned
to the several towns, were required to pay the amount thereof
the treasury ; and all persons who had received money, into
either for purchasing of guns, or enlisting of men into the
Continental battalions or fifteen months' regiments, were re-
quired to render an account thereof, to the council of war
within thirty days ; and it having been represented to this
Assembly, that said time was insufficient for the purpose
aforesaid, —
It is therefore voted and resolved, that a further time of
thirty days, from the 1st day of November inst., be allowed,
1777.] AND PROVIDENCE PLANTATIONS. 313
for the purpose aforesaid ; and if any person shall neglect
within said time, to pay said money for said salt, or for iron
and flour, which have been proportioned and received by
them, in behalf of their respective towns; or render an
account of the money by him received as aforesaid, to the
council of war, and pay the balance in his hands (if any,)
into the treasury, the attorney general is directed to com-
mence an action against such delinquent to the first court
proper to try the same.
And it is further voted and resolved, that this act be pub-
lished in the next Providence Gazette.
It is voted and resolved, that the whole and every part
and parcel of the bills of public credit emitted by this state,
and not on interest (small change less than a dollar, only
excepted), shall be called in, and sunk by a tax or taxes, to
be assessed upon the polls and estates, both real and per-
sonal, within this state ; and to be paid into the general
treasury, on or before the 1st day of November, 1778.
Whereas, owing to divers causes, it hath happened that
several town councils in this state have not yet collected
the moneys due from their several delinquents, who were
draughted to do duty in the late intended expedition
against the enemy, on Rhode Island, and in whose stead
they hired persons, —
It is voted and resolved, that the several town councils in
this state, be, and they are hereby, empowered and directed
to collect the sums due from the delinquents, and to issue
warrants of distraint against them, agreeably to the act of
the General Assembly, for draughting men for the said ex-
pedition, and to the order of the council of war, of the
29th of September last, respecting the said expedition ; and
that such warrants of distraint shall be returnable in twenty
days after the issuing thereof, and be as valid, to all intents
and purposes, and be executed in the same manner, as
though they had been issued and executed within the time
prescribed by the said act.
It is voted and resolved, that Major General Spencer be,
VOL. VIII. 40
314 RECORDS OF THE COLONY OF RHODE ISLAND [OCT.,
and he is hereby, requested to make application to His Ex-
cellency Gov. Trumbull, for permission to retain the regi-
ment under the command of Col. Ely, within this state,
until the quota of troops to be furnished by the state of
Connecticut shall arrive ; and that he be requested to de-
tain the said regiment until he can receive an answer from
His Excellency.
It is voted and resolved, that one thousand pair of good
yarn stockings be furnished by the several towns within
this state, for the use of the soldiers, agreeably to the fol-
lowing apportionment, to wit :
Proportion of Yarn Stockings to be furnished by the several Towns,
for the use of the Soldiers.
Pair.
Pair.
Providence
136
Bristol, -
28
Warwick
60
Tiverton,
44
Westerly
36
Little Compton,
40
North Kingstown, -
56
Warren,
12
South Kingstown,
108
Cumberlann,
28
East Greenwich,
32
Richmond, -
24
Smithfield,
64
Cranston,
44
Scituate,
48
Hopkinton, -
32
Glocester,
40
Johnston,
29
Charlestowd,
28
North Providence,
20
West Greenwich,
24
Barrington,
16
Coventry, -
28
Exeter,
32
1,000
And it is further voted and resolved, that the collectors
of taxes within this state be, and they are hereby, appointed
to purchase said stockings, proportioned to their respective
towns, upon the best terms they can be procured ; and that
they purchase and deliver the same to either of the com-
mittees of safety within this state, by the 1st day of De-
cember next ; and if the same cannot be purchased upon
1777.] AND PROVIDENCE PLANTATIONS. 315
reasonable terms, the said collectors are empowered to im-
press the said stockings, and allow a reasonable price for
the same ; and the said collectors are directed to exhibit
their accounts to the council of war, for adjustment.
It is further voted and resolved, that copies hereof, be
immediately transmitted to the several collectors of taxes
within this state.
Whereas, by a resolve of this Assembly, the families of
officers, to the amount of one-quarter part of their wages,
and the families of soldiers to the amount of their wages,
should be furnished with such necessary articles as are enu-
merated in the act to prevent monopoly and oppression, at
the prices affixed in said act ; and the town councils of the
several towns within this state were directed to appoint
persons within their respective towns to purchase and fur-
nish the said families with the necessaries aforesaid ; and
whereas, the town councils of some of the said towns have
neglected to appoint persons for the purpose aforesaid ; and
in some of the towns, the persons who have been appointed,
have neglected to execute the trust reposed in them, —
It is therefore voted and resolved, that if any town
council shall neglect to appoint persons for the purpose
aforesaid, within fifteen days after the rising of this Assem-
bly, they shall pay as a fine each member thereof, £6 law-
ful money, to and for the use of this state.
And if any person who shall be so appointed, shall refuse
or neglect to accept and do the duty thereof, he shall pay
as a fine, to and for the use of this state, £15, lawful money ;
which fines are to be recovered by bill, plaint or informa-
tion, in any court of record within this state.
And it is further voted and resolved, that upon a certifi-
cate being produced from the town clerk of the respective
towns, of the families, and the numbers of which they con-
sist, to be supplied, agreeably to said resolve, to the council
of war, the said council are hereby empowered to order the
persons who shall be appointed as aforesaid, such sums of
316 RECORDS OF THE STATE OF RHODE ISLAND [OcTl,
money as shall be necessary for furnishing said families)
agreeably to the intent and meaning of said resolve.
And it is further voted and resolved, that a copy hereof
be immediately transmitted to the several town councils
within this state.
It is voted and resolved, that the Colonels Elliott, Stan-
ton and Crary, make immediate returns to the council of
war of all clothing which they have received, and of the de-
ficiency of clothing due to their regiments.
And that the Colonels Stanton and Crary receive each
immediately of the committees of safety, or of Capt. Paul
Allen, one hundred pair of shoes, one hundred pair of stock-
ings, fifty pair of breeches, fifty shirts, fifty coats and
seventy-two hats, to be distributed to their men, for sup-
plying their present necessities.
It is voted and resolved, that Rowse J. Helme, Esq., be
allowed eighteen shillings for each day's attendance on the
General Assembly or council of war.
It is voted and resolved, that all those persons who live
on Boston Neck and Point Judith, and other exposed parts
of the sea-coast in this state, be directed to remove immedi-
ately all their butter, cheese, corn and other grain (except-
ing what shall be necessary for the use of their families,)
three miles back from the salt water ; and that Col. Charles
Dyer be, and he is hereby, appointed and fully empowered
to see the same done.
Members of the Council of War Appointed.
It is voted and resolved, that His Excellency Nicholas
Cooke, Esq., the Hon. William Bradford, Esq., the Hon. Ste-
phen Hopkins, Esq., the Hon. William Greene, Esq., John
Tanner, Ebenezer Thompson, Daniel Cahoone, James Arnold,
Henry Ward, Thomas Rumreil, Samuel Babcock, Joshua Bab-
cock, Gideon Hoxsie, Cromel Child, Job Comstock, Gideon
Comstock and John Updike, Esqs., be the members of the
1777.] AND PROVIDENCE PLANTATIONS. 317
council of war, to act in the recess of the General Assem-
bly, agreeably to the act establishing the said council.
It is voted and resolved, that James Congdon, 3d, be, and
he is hereby, empowered to draw £500, lawful money, out
of the general treasury, as one of the committee of safety.
It is voted and resolved, that John Northup, Esq., as one
of the committee of safety, be, and he is hereby, empowered
to draw the sum of £500, lawful money, out of the general
treasury.
Whereas, by a resolve of this Assembly, passed at the last
session, one-half of the militia, independent, artillery and
alarm companies within this state, were draughted, and have
done duty for one month, —
It is voted and resolved, that the remaining half-part of
said militia, independent, artillery and alarm companies, be
draughted into two divisions, on the 6th day of November
instant,
That on the 7th day of November instant, one of the said
divisions being first formed into companies, and having
proper officers assigned to command them, by the field offi-
cers of the said regiments of militia, and commanders of in-
dependent, artillery and alarm companies, shall march to
such place or places as shall be ordered by Gen. Spencer, or
his successor in command, and do duty for the space of
thirty days from the said 7th day of November inst.
It is further voted and resolved, that each non-commis-
sioned officer and private, who* shall be draughted and do
duty as aforesaid, shall be allowed as a bounty, forty
shillings, and the same wages as are allowed the non-
commissioned officers and privates in the Continental
service.
It is further voted and resolved, that the other division
of said militia, independent, artillery and alarm companies,
be formed into companies, and officered as aforesaid ; and
that they march to such place or places, as shall be directed
by Gen. Spencer, or his successor in command, on the 6th
day of December next, and do duty for the space of thirty
318 EECORDS OF THE STATE OF RHODE ISLAND [OCT.r
days, unless discharged or counter ordered by the General
Assembly, or council of war, and be entitled to the same
bounty and wages, as the said first division.
And the said field officers and commanders of companies,,
are required on the said 6th day of November, to cause said
draught then to be made, upon the penalty of £50, to be
recovered for the use of this state.
It is further voted and resolved, that if any person who
shall be draughted as aforesaid, shall neglect to do duty, or
hire a man to do his tour of duty, the town council of the
town in which such person shall reside, are empowered to
hire a manjn the room of such delinquent person, and to pro-
vide in manner as is directed by an act for the relief of per-
sons of tender conscience, if the delinquent person be adjudged
by such town council of sufficient ability to bear the expense
thereof; or otherwise, the said field officers are empowered
and directed to proceed in manner as is directed by a re-
solve of the council of war, of the 29th day of September
last.
It is further voted and resolved, that the towns which
have furnished their quota of the men assigned them for
filling up the brigade raised by this state, for fifteen
months, or any part thereof, shall have credit, and be ex-
cused from an equal number of men now ordered out to do
their tour of duty, to be drawn by lot from those of the re-
spective towns who may be draughted by virtue of this
resolve. *
It is further voted and resolved, that the field officers of
said regiments be directed to cause all such able-bodied men
as were draughted to go upon the late intended expedition
against the enemy on Rhode Island, who did not do duty
themselves, and in whose stead some other person did not
do duty, to do their tour of duty with the first division now
ordered out.
It is further voted and resolved, that copies of this act be
immediately transmitted to the colonels of said regiments,
and commanders of said independent companies.
1777-] AND PROVIDENCE PLANTATIONS. 319
It is voted and resolved, that the members of the council
of war be allowed twelve shillings per day.
It is voted and resolved, that the council of Avar be, and
they are hereby, directed to appoint suitable persons to ap-
ply to the neighboring states, and request of them to send
their respective quotas of troops, to defend the shores of
this state ; and to remonstrate to the state of Connecticut
against a late act of the said state, laying an embargo on
provisions within the same.
Whereas, Benjamin Underwood, Esq., hath represented to
this Assembly, that he is possessed of a bond for money here-
tofore lent to this state ; that an act of this Assembly was-,
passed, requiring the possessors of bonds, &c, on interest, to.
receive their money out of the treasury within a certain time,
and directing that no interest should be allowed on the same-
after the expiration of the said time ; and that he had no-
knowledge of the said act until many months after the same
was passed, which prevented his making application for his
money and interest within the time limited ; and thereupon
requested this Assembly to allow him his money and inter-
est to this time ; —
It is therefore voted and resolved, that the general treas-
urer pay unto the said Benjamin Underwood the money due
on the said bond, with interest until this time, out of the
general treasury ; any act to the contrary, notwithstanding.
Voted and resolved, that the following accounts be paid
out of the general treasury, viz. :
Bills Ordered to be Paid.
£ s. ci.
Charles Shearman, for subsisting soldiers in Lieutenant Colonel Barton's
command 7 04 0
John Northup, one of the committee of safety ; balance due due him 719 03 0
Christopher Smith, for his services as lieutenant colonel in the fifteen
months' brigade 77 04 0
John Sayles, for small arms and bayonets for the use of militia of the town
of Smithfield, drafted for the late expedition against Rhode Island 36 00 0
William Channing, for services as assistant clerk of the lower house 7 02 0
Col. Joseph Stanton, for clothing furnished a deserter from the 54th British
regiment, who swam off Rhode Island, entirely naked 13 15 0
God save the United States of America.
320 RECORDS OF THE STATE OF RHODE ISLAND [OCT.,
Henry Laurens to the Governor of Rhode Island.
Yorktown, Pennsylvania, 1st November, 1777.
Sir : — The arras of the United States of America having been blessed in the present
campaign with remarkable success, Congress have resolved to recommend that one
day, Thursday, the 18th December next, be set apart to be observed by all the inhab-
itants throughout these states, for a general thanksgiving to Almighty God. And I
have it in command to transmit to you the enclosed extract from the minutes of Con-
gress for that purpose.
Your Honor will be pleased to take the necessary measures for carrying the resolve
into effect in the state in which you preside.
You will likewise find enclosed, a certified copy of a minute, which will 6how Your
Honor the authority under which I address you.
I am, with great esteem and regard, sir,
Your Honor's most obedient, and most humble servant,
HENRY LAURENS.
To the Honorable Governor Cooke, Rhode Island.
Henri/ Laurens, President of the Continental Congress, to the Gov-
ernor of Rhode Island.
Yorktown, Pennsylvania, 28th November, 1777.
Sir : — I had the honor of addressing you under the 1st inst, since which I have re-
ceived uone of your favors.
I have now in charge to forward to you the under mentioned copies of minutes and
resolves of Congress, which will go enclosed with this :
Of articles of confederation and perpetual union between the United States of
America — three books.
Of address from Congress to the states respectively, recommending the immediate
consideration of that important plan for compact.
Urging the necessity for taxation in each state, in order to raise $5,000,000 in the
year 1778, for the service of the United States, and as one mean for establishing public
credit ; recommending also confiscation and sale of the estates jof persons who have
forfeited the right of protection, and for other purposes.
These papers, so expressive as they are, of the meaning and good views of Congress,
require no attempt to a more minute detail of their contents.
It remains, therefore, only to repeat the request of Congress, that you will be pleased
to take the earliest opportunity of laying them before the Legislature of your state.
I have the honor to be, with very great respect, sir,
Your Excellency's obedient and most humble servant,
HENRY LAURENS, President of Congress.
To His Excellency Nicholas Cooke, Esq., i
Rhode Island and Providence Plantations. [
1777.]
AND PROVIDENCE PLANTATIONS. 321
Proceedings of the General Assembly, held for the State of Rhode
Island and Providence Plantations, at East Greenwich, on
Monday, the 1st day of December, 1777.
His Excellency Nicholas Cooke, Governor.
The Hon. William Bradford, Deputy Governor.
The following resolution of the Most Honorable Conti-
nental Congress being read :
Resolution of the Continental Congress, appointing a Day of Thanks-
giving throughout the United States.
" Lv Congress, Nov. 1st, 1777.
Forasmuch as it is the indispensable duty of all men to adore the superintending
providence of Almighty God ; to acknowledge, with gratitude, their obligation to him
for benefits received; and to implore such further blessings as they stand in need of:
and it having pleased him, in his abundant mercy, not only to continue to us
the innumerable bounties of his common providence, but also to smile upon us in the
prosecution of a just and necessary war, for the defence and establishment of our un-
alienable rights and liberties ; particularly in that he hath been pleased, in so great a
measure, to prosper the means used for the support of our troops, and to crown our
arms with most signal success.
It is therefore recommended to the legislative or executive powers of these United
States, to set apart Thursday, the 18th day of December next, for solemn thanksgiving
and praise ; that at one time, and with one voice, the good people may express the
grateful feelings of their hearts, and consecrate themselves to the service of their
divine Benefactor ; and that, together with their sincere acknowledgments and offer-
ings, they may join the penitent confession of their manifold sins, whereby they had
forfeited every favor ; and their humble and earnest supplication that it may please
God, through the merits of Jesus Christ, mercifully to forgive and blot them out of re-
membrance.
That it may please him graciously to afford his blessing on the governments of these
states respectively, and prosper the public Council of the whole.
To inspire our commanders both by land and sea, and all under them, with that
wisdom and fortitude which may render them fit instruments, under the providence of
Almighty God, to secure for these United States the greatest of all human blessings,
independence and peace.
That it may please him to prosper the trade and manufactures of the people, and
the labor of the husbandman, that our land may yield its increase.
To take schools and seminaries of education, so necessary for cultivating the prin-
ciples of true liberty, virtue and piety, under his nuturing hand ; and to prosper the
vol. viii. 41
322 RECORDS OF THE STATE OF RHODE ISLAND [DEC,
means of religion for the promotion and enlargement of that kingdom which consisteth
' in righteousness, peace and joy in the Holy GJiost.'
And it is further recommended, that servile labor, and such recreation as, though at
other times innocent, may be unbecoming the purpose of this appointment, may be
omitted on so solemn an occasion. CHA. THOMPSON, Sec'ry."
It is voted and resolved, that Thursday, the 18th clay of
December instant, be set apart for a clay of solemn thanks-
giving and jjraise, throughout this state, agreeably to the
above resolve ; and that all servile labor and recreation is
forbidden on that clay ; and His Excellency the Governor is
desired to issue a proclamation accordingly.
It is voted and resolved, that the persons now on board
the flag of truce from Newport, be permitted to land at
Warwick Neck or Pawtuxet ; and that Thomas Cook, Jr.,
Godfrey Brown and Henry Northup, be immediately landed
and brought before this Assembly.
Whereas, Mr. JeofTry Willcox, by a vote of this house,
is not received as a member thereof, being suspected to be
unfriendly to this state, —
It is therefore resolved, that the freemen of the town of
Exeter be, and they are hereby, directed and empowered,
to choose another deputy in his room, to represent said
town in this Assembly.
Whereas, it hath been represented to this Assembly, that
there are coarse woolen cloths, stockings and linen to be dis-
posed of at Newburyport, on reasonable terms, for the use
of the army ; and whereas, the soldiers belonging to this
state are in great want of clothing, —
It is therefore voted and resolved, that John Eeynolds,
Esq., be, and he is hereby, empowered in behalf of this
state, to proceed to Newburyport, and purchase such arti-
cles as may be suitable for the purpose aforesaid ; and he is
hereby empowered to draw out of the general treasury a
sum not exceeding £3,000, lawful money, for executing
said business.
It is voted and resolved, that Peter Phillips, Esq., be, and
he is hereby, empowered to draw £300, lawful money, out
1777.] AND PROVIDENCE PLANTATIONS. 323
of the general treasury ; and that he re-pay the same as
soon as may be.
It is voted and resolved, that John Reynolds, Esq., be al-
lowed five per cent, commissions for the clothing heretofore
purchased by him in behalf of this state.
Whereas, this Assembly is informed that the farm, and ap-
purtenances in Little Compton, sold by Col. Thomas Church
to Mr. Gideon Sisson, is still in the possession of said
Col. Church, but who proposes to give up the possession
thereof, soon ; and as it does not appear that Mr. Sisson has
empowered any person to take possession of said farm, —
It is therefore voted and resolved, that Col. William Rich-
mond be, and he is hereby, empowered to receive the pos-
session of said farm and appurtenances, and deliver the same
to Capt, William Taggart on the 25th day of March next,
to improve the same for his own advantage, to support him-
self and family, rent free ; that he hold possession thereof,
one year or longer, at the pleasure of the General Assem-
bly ; and that said William Taggart be, and he is hereby,
empowered to draw £300, lawful money, out of the general
treasury, for the support of himself and family, the ensuing
winter, as a gratuity for his sufferings and damages sus-
tained by his extraordinary exertions in behalf of, and for,
the advantage of this state, in the late intended expedition
against the enemy, on Rhode Island.
It is voted and resolved, that Col. William Richmond be,
and he is hereby, empowered to collect the money arising
from the sale of cattle and sheep, belonging to Gervas
Elam, late of Portsmouth, deceased, and Metcalf Bowler,
which were brought from Rhode Island, upon the appear-
ance of the enemy's fleet, in December last, and that he pay
the same into the treasury.
Whereas, a great uneasiness prevails among the officers
and soldiers belonging to the brigade raised for fifteen
months, and doing duty in this state, for want of clothes
and other necessaries, —
It is therefore voted and resolved, that the said officers
324 RECORDS OF THE STATE OF RHODE ISLAND [DEC.
and soldiers be punctually supplied with clothes now due to
them by agreement, as soon as may be.
And that those non-commissioned officers and soldiers
who have received money in lieu of clothing, or who are
destitute of any articles of clothing, and which are not due
to them by contract, be furnished therewith by either of the
committees of safety within this state, at the prices at which
clothing was fixed, and which have been paid in lieu of the
same ; and the said committees of safety are hereby directed
to furnish them accordingly.
It is further voted and resolved, that said brigade be fur-
nished with fifty pounds weight of sugar per hundred men
per week, in lieu of butter and molasses, and with sauce ac-
cording to Continental rations.
That the same be purchased under the direction of the
commanding officers of the regiments in said brigade ; and
that they apply to the council of war for such sums of
money as will be necessary for procuring the same.
Whereas, agreeably to a resolve of this Assembly, the
town council of the several towns within this state, have
hired men in the room of persons who have been drafted,
and neglected to do duty ; and whereas, some of the persons
so drafted, and neglecting to duty as aforesaid, have no
goods or chattels, or have concealed the same, so that a
warrant of distress, issued agreeably to said resolve, cannot
be satisfied ; and it having been represented that some of
the said persons are seized of large real estates, —
It is therefore voted and resolved, that said town councils
be, and they are hereby, empowered to take possession of
the real estates of such persons, and lease the same ; or cut
as much wrood upon the same, and dispose thereof, as will
be sufficient to satisfy the money expended in hiring the
men to do duty in their room ; unless the persons who have
been drafted, and neglected to do duty, shall, upon notice
hereof, otherwise discharge the same.
Whereas, this state hath not received that benefit from the
company of boatmen, who were enlisted under the command
1777.] AND PROVIDENCE PLANTATIONS. 325
of Major Nathan Mimro, as was expected when they were
ordered to be raised ; and they are very expensive, —
It is voted and resolved, that said company, both officers
and men, be disbanded and dismissed from the service of
this state, within twenty days next after the rising of this
Assembly ; and that General Spencer have notice hereof,
that in the mean time he may collect all the boats that
have been taken into Continental service by him, and re-
turn them to the several places they have been taken
from.
It is voted and resolved, that the sheriff, for the county of
Kings, forthwith take possession of the farm in North Kings-
town, lately belonging to Gervas Elam, in behalf of this
state ; that he prevent any waste being committed on the
same ; and that Mr. Thomas Hazard, who is at present in
possession of said estate, account with the state for the rents
and profits of the same.
It is further voted and resolved, that the said sheriff take
possession of a certain farm in South Kingstown, in behalf
of this state, belonging to Stephen Ayrault ; that the tenant
who is in possession thereof, account for the rents and
profits of the same, with this state.
That the sheriff also take possession of a farm in South
Kingstown, belonging to Gideon Sissson, in behalf of this
state ; and that the tenant account for the rents.
It is voted and resolved, that Col. Crary be empowered to
draw £100, lawful money, out of the general treasury, for
purchasing sauce for the use of the troops of his regiment,
and of the regiment under the command of Col. Barton,
agreeably to a resolve of this Assembly.
That William Bennett, who is in possession of the sugar
belonging to this state, deliver to Colonel Crary two hogs-
heads thereof, for the same purpose ; and that Col. Crary
account therefor, to this Assembly ; or, in the recess there-
of, to the council of war.
Whereas, Henry Ward, Esq., hath laid before this Assem-
bly, a letter, wherein request is made by General Pigot, that
326 RECORDS OF THE STATE OF RHODE ISLAND [DEC,
permit be given that some wine, tea and sugar, may be sent
by him to General Burgoyne ; wherefore —
Resolved, that permission be, and hereby is, given unto
General Pigot, to send the aforesaid articles to General Bur-
goyne, in a cartel vessel, directed to the care of Mr. Ward ;
and that the same be forwarded for the purpose aforesaid.
An Act to prevent the soldiery, within this state, selling
and squandering away the camp utensils, &c.
Whereas, it frequently happens that the inhabitants and
others, in this state, being instigated with a sordid, selfish view
of making gain and advantage to themselves, do purchase and
receive of the soldiery within this state, their guns, blankets
and camp utensils ; which is of the most pernicious conse-
quence, and ought to be speedily prevented ; in order, there-
fore, to remedy such mal-practices for the future, —
Be it enacted by this General Assembly, and by the
authority thereof it is enacted, that if any person or per-
sons whoever, shall purchase, or take in pledge, of any sol-
dier or soldiers belonging or serving in this state, any
clothes, guns, bayonets, or camp utensils whatever, that he,
she or they, so offending, shall, upon conviction thereof, for-
feit and pay as a fine therefor, to and for the use of this state,
six fold the value or price of such article by him or them so
received ; or shall suffer such corporal punishment as the
court before whom he, she or they, shall be convicted, shall
adjudge adequate to such offence, together with all lawful cost.
And be it further enacted by the authority aforesaid, that
each and every person who shall knowingly and willingly
conceal any article or articles whatever, belonging to this
state, or the United States in general, which have been de-
livered out for the use of the soldiers, shall be deemed as
purchasers, and suffer accordingly.
And be it further enacted by the authority aforesaid, that
the aforesaid crimes shall be heard and determined before
any courts, within this state, where the same are cog-
nizable.
1777.] AND PROVIDENCE PLANTATIONS. 327
It is voted and resolved, that John Reynolds, Esq., deliver
nnto Col. Crary twenty pair of breeches, for the use of his
regiment ; and also that he deliver twenty pair of breeches
unto the commanding officer of the regiment late com-
manded by Col. Stanton, for the use of that regiment.
It is voted and resolved, that John Northup, Esq., one of
the committee of safety, deliver unto Col. Crary, for the use
of his regiment, one hundred shirts, one hundred pair of
stockings and fifteen pair of shoes ; and also that he deliver
unto the commanding officer of the regiment late command-
ed by Col. Stanton, one hundred shirts, one hundred pair
of stockings and fifteen pair of shoes, for the use of that
regiment.
It is voted and resolved, that Ezekiel Cornell, Esq., be,
and he is hereby, appointed brigadier general of this state's
troops, until further orders of this Assembly.
It is voted and resolved, that one-fourth part of the mili-
tia, independent, artillery and alarm companies, heretofore
drafted to do duty on the 6th clay of December insi, be not
called upon duty upon the said 6th day of December, but
that they be discharged from the same until the further
orders of this Assembly, or the council of war.
It is further voted and resolved, that the towns on the
sea coast, in which no troops are stationed, be empowered
to enlist (if they think it necessary for the safety thereof,) a
sergeant and twelve men, as artillery men, or otherwise to
do duty within said towns, and guard the shores of the
same.
That the aforesaid companies be under the same rules,
regulations and command, as the fifteen months' brigade
are ; and that so much of the act establishing artillery com-
panies within said towns, as empowers them to appoint two
officers to fourteen men, be, and the same is hereby, re-
pealed.
It is further voted and resolved, that weekly returns be
made by the sergeant to Major General Spencer ; and that
they be allowed as a bounty, forty shillings, lawful money, per
228 KECORDS OF THE STATE OF RHODE ISLAND [DeC.?
month, and be entitled to the same wages and rations as
non-commissioned officers and soldiers in the Continental
service.
It is voted and resolved, that the time for payment of the
tax of £32,000, lawful money, ordered to be assessed upon
the inhabitants of this state, at the session of this Assembly
in August last, be lengthened to the 1st day of January
next.
That the general treasurer be empowered to issue war-
rants for collecting the same, within fifteen days from the
rising of this Assembly ; and that the said sum be paid in,
on the said 1st day of January, without interest.
Whereas, Jos. Stanton, Jr., Esq., colonel of one of the regi-
ments raised for fifteen months, hath represented unto this
Assembly, that he hath considered himself as having re-
signed his commission since the 10th day of November last,
and hath requested this Assembly to approbate his resigna-
tion ; wherefore —
Resolved, that the resignation of the said Joseph Stan-
ton, Jr., be accepted ; and that he be dismissed from said
command.
It is further voted and resolved, that William Barton,
Esq., now lieutenant colonel of said regiment, be, and he is
hereby, appointed colonel, thereof, in the place of said Col.
Joseph Stanton, Jr.
And it is further voted and resolved, that Nathaniel Haw-
kins, Esq., now major of said regiment, be, and he is hereby,
appointed lieutenant colonel of said regiment, in the room
of the said William Barton, Esq., who is advanced.
Whereas, Samuel Segar, Stephen Champlin and Freeman
Perry, three of the members of the town council of South
Kingstown, preferred a petition, and represented unto this
Assembly, that when the men ordered to be raised to join
General Spencer's camp, were drafted in said town, a num-
ber of persons were drafted, who refused to do duty ; that
they hired men in the stead of Stephen Haszard, Wilkinson
Browning, Sylvester Robinson, Josiah Clarke, Peleg Garcl-
1777.] AND PROVIDENCE PLANTATIONS. 329
ner, Robert Rodman and William Knowles, being part of
those who refused to serve, which cost the sum of £354, as
will appear by receipts produced.
That they are persuaded their brethren will not pretend
they could hire cheaper.
That the}'' have produced to a full council their receipts,
and moved for an order of council that warrants of distress
might be issued against the delinquents ; and that the coun-
cil being divided, such have been the proceedings, they are
deprived of every means of relief for the large sums ad-
vanced, unless by the interposition of this Assembly ; and
thereupon prayed this Assembly to point out some method
by which they may be re-paid the large sums advanced,
and have some satisfaction for the expense and trouble
they have been put to ; and the premises being duly con-
sidered,—
It is voted and resolved, that the town council issue war-
rants of distraint for the money expended, and the interest
and cost that have arisen thereon, against the above named
persons for whom the men were hired, agreeably to a re-
solve of this Assembly.
It is voted and resolved, that James Potter, with his wife
and child, and Sarah Perry, be permitted to go in a flag to
the island of Rhode Island, from such place as shall be ap-
probated by General Spencer, or the council of war.
It is voted and resolved, that Col. Dyer forthwith appre-
hend Ezra Gleason, who, it hath been represented to this
Assembly, hath uniformly in his conduct and conversation
manifested himself inimical to the liberties of America ; and
that he send him to the council of war, to be dealt with ac-
cordingly; and Col. Charles Dyer is required to notify
those persons who have been witnesses to his said conduct
and conversation, to attend said council, to give information
respecting the same.
It is voted and resolved, that Peter Phillips, Esq., be, and
he is hereby, appointed to proceed to the state of Connec-
vol. vin. 42
330 RECORDS OF THE STATE OF RHODE ISLAND [DEC,,
ticut, and purchase there a quantity of provisions for the
use of the troops within this state ; and that he apply to
the council of war for orders on the general treasurer, for
such sum or sums of money as they shall think proper for
the purpose aforesaid.
It is voted and resolved, that the committees of safety
forthwith pay the bounty and wages due to the militia, who
were drafted, and did duty in the late intended expedition
against the enemy on Rhode Island, excepting the wages
due the commissioned officers in the regiment late under
the command of Col. Dyer ; and that their wages be detained
until certain guns delivered said regiment, in said expedi-
tion, which are missing, be returned.
It is voted and resolved, that two hundred, one-quarter, and
twenty-four pounds of iron, in the hands of Mr. Isaac Man-
chester, belonging to this state, be sold to the said Isaac at
£12, per hundred weight; and that he pay the amount
thereof, into the treasury.
It is voted and resolved, that William Greene, Caleb "Al-
clrich and John Dexter, Esqs., be a committee to secure, and
carefully examine, the records and papers of the Meeting of
Sufferings, within this state ; and that they make report to
the council of war, that they may thereupon proceed agree-
ably to a resolve of Congress.
It is voted and resolved, that a tax of £48,000, lawful
money, be assessed upon the inhabitants of this state, to be
levied, collected and paid into the general treasury, by the
1st day of March next.
That the same be proportioned according to the last ap-
portionment.
That after the same is proportioned, as aforesaid, so much
shall be deducted from the proportion of the town of Provi-
dence, as shall be equal to the apportioned value of £2 5,»
000 ; so much from the proportion of the town of Bristol, as
shall be equal to the apportioned value of £10,000 ; so
much from the proportion of the town of East Greenwich,
as shall be equal to the apportioned value of £2,750,
1771]
AND PROVIDENCE PLANTATIONS. 331
That the proportionment of the other towns, be agreea-
bly to the said apportionment.
That the poll tax be sixpence for every £1,000.
That Mr. Nathaniel Mumford proportion said tax, and
draft a bill agreeably to an act for levying a tax of £32,-
000 ; with this addition, that the towns be thereby empow-
ered to appoint new collectors and assessors.
That the tax be paid in, in Continental or this state's
money ; and that he report the same to the council of war ;
which act being found by the said council to be agreeably
to this resolve, shall be in force, and considered as an act of
this Assembly.
Dissent from the above Resolution.
The subscribers dissent from the vote of the lower bouse of Asssembly, passed De-
cember 6th, A. D. 1777, ordering a tax to be laid upon the inhabitants of this state, for
the following reasons, viz. :
Because, by the general estimate taken in the year 1767, the town of Providence
stood valued at the sum of .£125,000 lawful money; and in order to induce the Gen-
eral Assembly to consent to begin taxation, the representatives of the town of Provi-
dence, in March last, agreed to have the sum of £100,000, in value, added to the esti-
mate of the said town, with the express reserve that the said proportion should not be
brought into precedent in the apportioning any future tax.
And because the General Assembly have since apportioned a tax of £32,000, and
have afforded the said town of Providence no relief, they having petitioned for the
same.
And because the same General Assembly have, by their vote of the 6th of this in-
stant December, ordered another tax of £48,000, in which they have kept on the sum
of £75,000, that was part of the £100,000, that was added as aforesaid, to the estimate
of the said town, in the £16,000 tax.
And because the representatives of the said town have solicited for relief from the
abovesaid sum.
The situation of the town of Providence being now very different from what it was
when the £100,000 was added to the estimate of the town, arising from an invasion of
the state ; a long blocking up of the port of the town ; a removal of a large number
of the inhabitants, with their personal estates, to the amount of many thousand
pounds ; almost an entire stoppage of all trade and commerce ; many and great ex-
penses daily arising to the town from the high prices of all the necessaries of life ;
with many other great burthens with which the country in general is not distressed ;
all which different circumstances are not considered in said vote.
Against which, from its illegality, and in justice to ourselves and our constituents,
we do, in the most solemn manner, dissent and protest. JOHN UPDIKE,
JABEZ BO WEN,
East Greenwich, Dec. 6th, 1777. THEODOREE FOSTE.
332 RECORDS OF THE STATE OF RHODE ISLAND [DEC,
It is voted and resolved, that General Cornell forthwith
sell, at public vendue, the horses heretofore purchased for
the use of the state ; and that he render an account thereof,
to the council of war.
It is voted and resolved, that Messrs. Nathaniel Mumford,
Joseph Coggeshall and Benjamin Stelle, he a committee to
hear and determine the demands of Mr. George Irish, against
this state, respecting his cattle and sheep brought off from
the island of Rhode Island, and all other his accounts against
this state ; and that they make report to this Assembly as
soon as may be.
It is voted and resolved, that two thousand pair of men's
good yarn stockings be furnished by the several towns within
this state, for the use of the soldiers, agreeably to the fol-
lowing proportion, viz. :
Proportion of Yarn Stockings to be furnished by the several Toivns,
for the use of the Soldiers.
Pair.
Pair.
Providence
272
Bristol, -
56
Warwick
120
Tiverton,
88
Westerly
72
Little Compton,
80
North Kingstown, -
112
Warren,
24
South Kingstown,
216
Cumberland,
56
East Greenwich,
64
Richmond, -
48
Smithfield,
128
Cranston,
88
Scituate,
96
Hopkinton, -
64
Glocester,
80
Johnston,
40
Charlestown,
56
North Providence,
40
West Greenwich,
48
Barrington,
32
Coventry, -
56
Exeter,
64
2,000
And it is further voted and resolved, that the several col-
lectors of taxes within the respective towns be, and they
are hereby, authorized, empowered and directed, to procure
1777.] AND PROVIDENCE PLANTATIONS. 333
the aforesaid stockings by the best ways and means they
can devise, either by purchasing or distraining the same ;
that the said collectors be empowered to receive said stock-
ings on account of the taxes, which they are, or may be,
empowered to collect ; that one thousand pair of said stock-
ings be delivered unto Mr. Paul Allen, of Providence, with-
in twenty, and the other thousand pair within forty days
next after the rising of this Assembly ; that the collectors
be allowed five per cent, commissions for procuring the
same ; that the accounts be laid before the council of war,
to be adjusted ; and that the money, for the stockings afore-
said, be paid out of the general treasury.
And it is further voted and resolved, that if any of the
collectors aforesaid, shall distrain or impress any stockings
from the inhabitants, the same shall be appraised by said
collector, and the value paid to the persons.
And it is further voted and resolved, that if any of the
towns aforesaid, shall neglect or refuse to raise their quota,
and proportion of said stockings, as is before proportioned
within the time aforesaid, and deliver them as aforesaid,
they shall forfeit and pay into the general treasury of this
state $8, for each and every pair of stockings for which
they are delinquent ; to be recovered by the general treas-
urer, to and for the use of this state, by bill or plaint in any
court of record proper to try the same.
It is further voted and resolved, that copies hereof, be im-
mediately sent to the several town clerks within the towns
aforesaid, to be delivered the said collectors.
It is voted and resolved, that the militia and alarm com-
pany of the town of Little Compton be drafted into two di-
visions on the 10th day of December inst., and be formed
into companies, with proper officers.
That one of the said divisions do duty within the said
town, to guard the shores of the same, for the space of
thirty days from the said 10th day of December.
That after the expiration of the said thirty days, the first
334 RECORDS OF THE STATE OF RHODE ISLAND [DEC,
division be relieved by the second, who shall do duty within
the said town, for the space of thirty days.
That they continue to relieve each other, and do duty
in manner as aforesaid, until the further orders of this As-
sembly.
That the commanding officers of the militia and alarm
companies, in the said town, cause the said draft to be
made, and the said division to be duly relieved, agreeably to
this resolve.
That they be stationed by General Spencer, and be under
the immediate command of the commanding officer of the
alarm company in said town ; and that they be under the
same rules, regulations and command, as the brigade raised
by this state, for fifteen months.
It is further voted and resolved, that if any pereson who
shall be drafted, as aforesaid, shall refuse or neglect to do
duty, the town council hire a man in the room of such de-
linquent person, and proceed in manner as is directed by a
resolve of this Assembly, passed at the session in October
last.
And it is further voted and resolved, that each non^
commissioned officer and private, who shall do duty as afore-
said, be allowed, as a bounty, forty shillings, lawful money ;
and that the officers and privates be allowed the same wages
and rations as the officers and privates in the Continental
service.
Whereas, John Grimes, late commander of the private
ship of war American Tartar, hath represented unto this As-
sembly that he Avas captured during his cruise by one of the
British ships of war, and carried into Halifax.
That being there a prisoner, he was suffered by Sir
George Collier to return to Boston, upon his parole.
That either the master of the British ship Fox, who is a
prisoner of war within the state of Massachusetts Bay,
should be released in his stead, or that he would surrender
himself a prisoner of war again.
1777.] AND PROVIDENCE PLANTATIONS. 335
That the said master of the Fox is designed to be ex-
changed for the late master of the Continental ship Han-
cock, who is a prisoner of war at Halifax.
That the master of the British ship of war Syren, is here
a prisoner ; and it hath been proposed that he should be
held, in order to exchange for Mr. Esek Hopkins, Jr., who
was an acting lieutenant on board the Providence sloop,
and is a prisoner of war at Halifax ; and that Mr. Otway,
lieutenant in the British frigate Lark, was captured
by this state's troops, and will be exchanged for said Hop-
kins,—
It is therefore voted and resolved, that it be, and hereby
is, earnestly requested of the Honorable Major General
Spencer to suffer and permit the said Lieutenant Otway to
be given up, in order to redeem said Mr. Hopkins from cap^
tivity ; and that, upon General Spencer's permitting the
said Otway to be given in exchange, as aforesaid, the late
master of the British ship Syren, who is here a prisoner, shall
be delivered up to be exchanged for the master of the Han-
cock, or Capt. Grimes.
The following resolve of the Most Honorable the Conti-
nental Congress being read, —
Postmasters and Eiders excused from Military Duty.
"In Congress, May 12th, 1777.
Resolved, that all post masters, post riders, and persons immediately concerned in
conducting the business of the post office, ought to be exempted from all military
duties ; and that it be recommended to the legislatures of the different states to exempt
such persons accordingly. CHA. THOMPSON, Sec'ry."
In conformity whereto, —
It is voted and resolved, that post masters, post riders,
and all persons immediately concerned in conducting the
business of the post office, within this state, be, and they are
hereby, exempted from all military duties, agreeably to the
foregoing resolve.
It is voted and resolved, that Stephen Mumford, Esq., be,
336 RECORDS OF THE STATE OF RHODE ISLAND [DEC,
and he is hereby, appointed to examine the state of the
sugar belonging to this state, in the town of Warwick, and
report the same the council of war; and that said council
apply said sugar to such uses as may be most for the interest
of this state.
Whereas, two of the companies of militia, of the town of
Smithfield, belong to the second regiment, in the county of
Providence ; and one company in said town, belongs to the
first regiment, in said county; and it being found that
many inconveniences attend the said companies being so
divided, —
It is therefore voted and resolved, that the first company
of militia in the town of Smithfield, shall, in future, belong
to the second regiment, in the county of Providence, and
be under the direction and command of the field officers of
the same ; any act to the contrary, notwithstanding.
God save the United States of America,
Henru Laurens, P resident of the Continental Congress, to the Gov-
ernor of Rhode Island.
Yorktown, od December, 1777.
Sir: — The last which I had the honor of writing to you, was dated the 28th ult.,
and forwarded by Messenger Fred. Weare, to which I beg leave to refer.
Congress, ever watchful over the United States of America, and diligent to defeat
the numerous and various practices of our grand enemy, equally cruel and subtle,
have taken under consideration a device calculated for depreciating the value of money
issued by authority of Congress, and of the several states, after the good people had
found it necessary to assert their rights and to take government into their own hands.
The pernicious stratagem now in view, although the discovery of it is not quite new,
appears more glaring from a late publication in Philadelphia, subscribed by a very
great number of those misguided persons who chose to remain in the city, and wel-
come the enemy to rivet their fetters.
It is also notorious that many timid and lukewarm friends in several of the states,
have, from motives probably more avaricious than directly inimical, long given a great
preference to what is called the old money, which evidently tends to lessen the esti-
mation and currency of the new ; and does in the same instance demonstrate, if not an
inclination to overturn our independence, apprehensions which ought to be banished
from the mind of every inhabitant in the Union.
From an earnest desire therefore, to counteract the wicked projects of our enemies,
and to rectity such errors of our almost friends, Congress have confirmed a resolution
1777.]
AND PROVIDENCE PLANTATIONS. 337
of this date, recommending to the states respectively to enact laws sufficient for ac-
complishing these good ends.
I have the honor of forwarding the resolve under this cover, which Your Honor
will be pleased to lay before the Legislature of Rhode Island and Providence Plan-
tations. I am, with very great regard and esteem, sir,
Your Honor's most obedient servant,
HENRY LAURENS, President of Congress.
To Hon. Governor Cooke, Esq., Rhode Island, &c.
Gen. Pigot to Lieut Gen. Burgoyne.
Newport, Rhode Island, Dec. 5th, 1777.
Dear Sir : — I have the pleasure to acquaint you that the Raisonable man-of-war,
with twenty-six transports, under convoy from the Delaware, are off the harbor's
mouth, that eight of the transports are got in, and their orders are to take your troops
on board here.
That no time may be lost, and that you may have the earliest information, I send
this under cover to M. G. Spencer, and have begged of him to forward it to you by
express ; when I get my letters, if I receive any orders which are to be communicated
to you, will send you another express.
I would recommend to you to apply to the council at Providence for permission to
be supplied with sheep, fowls and other live stock from the Seaconnet or Narragan-
sctt shore, or in such manner as they shall think proper, as this island does not
abound -. I hope soon to have the pleasure of seeing you here, and will
have a house ready to receive you.
I am, dear sir, your most obedient and most humble servant,
RICHARD PIGOT.
To Lieut. Gen. Burgoyne.
The Governor of Rhode Island to the Council of the Stcde of
Massachusetts.
State of Rhode Island, &c, >
In Council Chamber, Providence, Dec. 7th, 1777. \
Gent. : — General Spencer having favored us with a copy of a letter from General
Pigot to General Burgoyne, which hath been forwarded to him ; we observe that it is
intended that Mr. Burgoyne and his late army should embark at Newport, as trans-
ports are arrived at that place for their reception.
We woukl suggest to you, gentlemen, that it appears by the convention agreed to
by General Gates, that it was his intention that Mr. Burgoyne's troops should not in-
termix with the other troops of the British King, serving in America; as the port of
Boston was assigned for their embarkation. It is our design to fulfil that convention
in every matter that may come within our department.
On the other hand, we do not intend to be accessory to giving them greater advan-
tages than they can derive therefrom. For which reason, gentlemen, we cannot pre-
vail with ourselves to admit Mr. Burgoyne's late army within our state, in order to
proceed to Newport, as we are sensible of the many disadvantages that may arise to
the United States therefrom.
Please to communicate to General Burgoyne. We are, &c.,
NICHOLAS COOKE,
To the Council ot the Massachusetts Bay.
vol. yni. 43
338 RECORDS OF THE COLONY OF RHODE ISLAND [DEC,
The Council of the State of Massachusetts to the Governor of
Rhode Island.
State of Massachusetts Bay, >
Council Chamber, Boston, December 7th, 1777. j
Sir : — We have received your letter of the 8th instant. We agree with you in sen-
timent that it appears by the convention agreed to by General _ Gates, that General
Burgoyne and his troops were to embark for Great Britain from the port of Boston,
and are of opinion that it is not in the power of this state, or any other of the United
States, to take any steps with regard to this matter, that may deviate therefrom. This
matter lays wholly with the Congress. Whatever they may determine upon, we shall
acquiesce in. In the name, and by order of Council,
I am, sir, with respect and esteem,
Your most obedient, humble servant,
JER. POWELL, President.
To Governor Cooke.
The Governor of Rhode Island to the Council of the State of
Massachusetts.
State of Rhode Island, &c., i
In Council of War, Providence, Dec. 14th, 1777. \
Gent. : — The time for which your troops engaged serving in this state, being nearly
expired, makes us very anxious to know whether you have made provision for re-
placing them, and for filling up the whole quota of troops assigned by the committee
of the New England states for our defence.
As we have frequently represented unto you our defenceless state, the extent of our
sea-coasts, the strength of the enemy, situated in the heart of our country, it will be
needless to trouble you with a repetition thereof.
By the preparation the enemy are making at Newport, by fitting up a large number
of barracks, not even sparing the meeting houses, to which they are building chimnies,
leave it without a doubt that they expect large reinforcements.
We must therefore, gentlemen, urge in the strongest terms, the necessity of your
attention upon us, to consider in what a defenceless and deplorable condition we shall
be in, if your troops are withdrawn, before provision is made for re-placing them. We
earnestly entreat that you would take this matter into your consideration, and make
that provision for our defence, of which you have given us repeated assurances, and
which, without doubt, intend, as it is of the greatest consequence to all the United
States, to prevent the enemy's bringing entire ruin and devastation upon us.
We are, &c, NICHOLAS COOKE.
To the Council of the Massachusetts Bay.
The Council of the State of Massachusetts to the Governor of
Rhode Island.
State of Massachusetts Bay, i
Council Chamber, Boston, Decembr 16th, 1777. \
Sir : — This day received your favor dated the 14th inst. ; antecedent thereto, the
General Assembly entered upon the consideration of supplying the state of Rhode
1777.] AND PROVIDENCE PLANTATIONS. 339
Island with fifteen hundred men, according to the report of several committees at
Springfield and Rhode Island.
A full sense that the term our troops now in the state of Rhode Island engaged for,
is near expiring, and of the distress of your state, arising from so large a body of our
common enemy being in possession of your capital, early in this session engaged the
attention of the General Court. That we may clearly demonstrate to Your Excel-
lency that we have not been unmindful of your situation and defence, the General
Court, by their resolve, dated December 18th, 1777, have largely encouraged the regi-
ments of Colonels Robinson and Keyes to continue in service for the term of one year
from the 1st day of January next.
An extract of said resolve, transmitted to the said colonels, is enclosed.
In the name, and behalf of the Council,
I am, with respect, Your Excellency's most obedient, humble servant,
JER. POWELL, President.
To His Excellency Governor Cooke.
Proceedings of the General Assembly, held for tlie State of Rhode
Island and Providence Plantations, at Providence, on Friday,
the \Wi day of December, 1777.
His Excellency Nicholas Cooke, Governor.
The Hon. William Bradford, Deputy Governor.
Whereas, the General Assembly, at the second session in
March last, did pass an act requiring the Governor, when-
ever necessity should require the calling of the General As-
sembly, to convene it at the place of the last session ; and
the Governor, through a mistake of the secretary, did call
this present Assembly to meet at Providence instead of East
Greenwich, where, by the letter of the law, it ought to have
been convened ; and whereas, some doubts may arise with
regard to the validity of the acts of this Assembly, —
It is voted and resolved, that this Assembly, taking into
consideration several matters recommended to them, by the
Most Honorable the Continental Congress, and the necessi-
ty of acting upon some of them immediately, will proceed
to business ; and that the several acts, orders and resolu-
tions, which shall be enacted and passed during the present
session, shall be of the same force and validity, to every in-
340 RECORDS OF THE STATE OF RHODE ISLAND [DeC7
tent and purpose, as though this Assembly had been called
and actually held at East Greenwich.
And it is further voted and resolved, that the convening
this present Assembly, in manner as aforesaid, shall not be
drawn into precedent, but that the act before recited, for
convening the General Assembly upon special occasions, at
the place of the last sitting, shall remain and be in full
force and virtue ; and that if this Assembly be called by
warrant before it meet by adjournment, it be convened at
East Greenwich.
It is voted and resolved, that in pursuance of a resolution
of Congress, of the 22d November last, this Assembly will
appoint commissioners to meet such commissioners as shall
be appointed by the states of New Hampshire, Massachu-
setts Bay, Connecticut, New York, Pennsylvania and Dela-
ware, for the purposes in said resolution contained.
Both houses being joined in a grand committee, made choice
of the Hon. William Greene, Esq., and Colonel Jabez Bowen,
commissioners, to meet commissioners from the other states,
agreeably to the recommendation of Congress, of the 22d of
November last, to take into consideration the several mat-
ters in, and by, the said resolve pointed out.
Henry Ward, Esq., having represented unto this Assem-
bly, that he could not hold his seat as a member of the
council of war, from the necessity of his attendance upon
the secretary's office, in order that the acts and orders of
this Assembly be forthwith printed, and begged leave to
resign ; thereupon, leave is given, and he resigns his seat
accordingly.
It is voted and resolved, that Col. Jabez Bowen and Esek
Hopkins, Esq., be, and they are hereby, appointed members
of the council of war.
It is voted and resolved, that this Assembly will appoint
an agent for the clothing department, agreeably to a re-
quest of James Mease, Esq., clothiergeneral of the Conti-
nental army.
Both houses being joined in a grand committee, made
1777.] AND PROVIDENCE PLANTATIONS. 341
choice of John Reynolds, Esq., to be agent-clothier for this
state.
It is voted and resolved, that Col. Jabez Bowen and Mr.
John Updike be, and they are hereby, appointed to exam-
ine the sails, rigging and furniture, belonging to the ship
Aurora, owned by this state ; and if there shall be any
spare rigging and sails belonging to said vessel, as the sloop
Diamond may require, that they deliver the same to Mr.
Pardon Gray, for the use of the said sloop Diamond ; or other
wise, that they purchase such sails and rigging as the said
sloop may require, and deliver the same to the said Pardon
Gray, for the purpose aforesaid.
It is voted and resolved, that the resolutions of Congress,
of the 22d of November last, be printed ; and that a copy
thereof, be forthwith transmitted to each of the members of
the General Assembly, and to each of the town clerks with-
in this state.
It is voted and resolved, that the consideration of the ar-
ticles of confederation proposed for the United States, and
of the tax recommended by Congress, to be assessed upon
the inhabitants of the United States of America, in the year
1778, be referred to the next session of this Assembly.
It is voted and resolved, that Henry Ward, Henry Mar-
chant, Eowse J. Helnie and William Channing, Esqs., be,
and they are hereby, appointed to draft a bill for confiscat-
ing and making sale of all the real and personal estate of
such of the inhabitants of this state, and other persons who
have forfeited the same, and the right to the protection of
this state ; and to invest the moneys arising from the sales,
in Continental loan-office certificates, to be appropriated as
shall be hereafter directed by the legislative authority of
this state, agreeably to the recommendation of Congress, of
the 22d of November last ; and that they make report to
this Assembly, at the next session.
Whereas, this Assembly did, at the last session, resolve
that the company of boatmen serving in this state, both offi-
cers and soldiers, should be discharged within twenty days,
342 RECORDS OF THE STATE OF RHODE ISLAND [DEC,
next after the rising of said Assembly, and that in the in-
terim the said boatmen should collect the boats that were
taken into the Continental service, by order of General
Spencer, and return them to the several places from whence
they were taken ; and this Assembly being informed that
said boatmen have neglected to perform said order, al-
though commanded by General Spencer so to do, —
It is voted and resolved, that the said company of boat-
men, officers and soldiers, shall not be paid any wages since
the rising of said last Assembly, unless they can show to
this Assembly good reasons why they disobeyed the orders
aforesaid ; and that a copy of this resolve be immediately
transmitted to the Hon. William Bradford, Esq., and John
Cooke, Esq.
It is voted and resolved, that the Hon. William Bradford^
Esq., be, and he is hereby, appointed to lease the estates,
for produce, which have been taken possession of in behalf
of this state, and belonging to persons unfriendly to the
United States, for the space of one year, from the 25th day of
March next ; and to make inquiry into the rents which have
arisen, or shall become due, on the said 25th day of March
next, for said estates ; and that he make report to this As-
sembly, as soon as may be.
It is voted and resolved, that the committees of safety be,
and they are hereby, directed forthwith to discharge the de-
mands which arose against the state, in the late expedition
against the enemy on the island of Rhode Island ; and that
they apply to the council of war for such sums of money as
shall be necessary for the purpose aforesaid ; and the said
committees are further directed immediately to make out
their accounts, and present them to the council of war, for
adjustment.
It is further voted and resolved, that upon the adjustment
of said accounts, the auditor of accounts make out the ac-
count of this state against the United States, and present
the same to the council of war, which being approved of,
the said council are empowered to forward the same to the
1777.] AND PROVIDENCE PLANTATIONS. 343
delegate from this state, in Congress, and request a payment
of the balance thereof, as soon as may be ; and it is ordered
that a copy thereof, be immediately forwarded to each of
the committees of safety within this state.
Whereas, Mr. Nathaniel Mumford, and Eowse J. Helme,
Esq., preferred a petition, and represented unto this Assem-
bly, that they have, for a considerable time past, devoted
themselves entirely to the business of this state.
That they are paid for their services by the day, without
having any other perquisite annexed to their emplo}^ ; and
that from the excessively exorbitant price of every neces-
sary article of life, they find their pay insufficient to main-
tain them, &c. ; and thereupon prayed this Assembly to
take the same into consideration, and make such provision
for them, that they may be enabled to perform their respec-
tive services with cheerfulness ; and the premises being
duly considered, —
It is voted and resolved, that the prayer of the said peti-
tion be, and the same is hereby, granted ; and that the said
Nathaniel Mumford and Rowse J. Helme be allowed each
$4 per day, while employed in the service of this state.
Whereas, at the last session of this Assembly, the com-
mittees of safety were directed not to pay the wages due to
the commissioned officers in the regiment under the com-
mand of Col. Dyer, until certain guns received by the said
regiment, and belonging the United States, are accounted
for, —
It is voted and resolved, that the wages of such officers
only be retained, as have not accounted for the guns by
them respectively received ; and that the wages of the other
officers be immediately paid them ; the said resolve to the
contrary, notwithstanding.
It is voted and resolved, that Mr. James Sumner be ad-
vanced to the rank and pay of a major, in the service of
this state.
It is voted and resolved, that Sion Martindale, a major in
service of this state, be called before the council of war, to
344 RECORDS OF THE STATE OF RHODE ISLAND [DEC,,
render an account of his conduct in said office; and said coun-
cil are empowered to dismiss him from said office, if it shall
appear to them that his services are no longer required.
Whereas, it hath been represented to this Assembly, that
Thomas Cranston, Esq., and Mr. Henry Northup, lately come
off from the island of Rhode Island, are unfriendly to the
liberties of America, —
It is voted and resolved, that it be recommended to the
council of war to call said persons before them, to be by
them examined touching the premises ; and that thereupon
they proceed in such manner as may be consistent with the
safety of this state.
Whereas, the college edifice in the town of Providence,
hath for some time been improved as barracks for the sol-
diers stationed within said town, whereby the said building
is so greatly damaged, as to render the same useless for the
purpose aforesaid, —
It is therefore voted and resolved, that Mr. John Jenckes
be, and he is hereby, appointed so far to repair said build-
ing, as that the expense thereof, shall not exceed £100,
lawful money, and in such manner as shall best answer the
purpose intended ; and that the said sum, or so much there-
of, as shall be necessary for repairing the said building, as
aforesaid, be paid to the said John Jenckes, by one of the
committee of safety.
Provided nevertheless, that this allowance shall not be
taken and deemed as a precedent for making any future al-
lowance for repairing the said edifice.
Whereas, this Assembly hath received information, that a
correspondence is maintained with the enemy, at the house
of the widow Sarah Slocum, in North Kingstown ; and it
being known that the family there are very unfriendly to
the liberties of America, whereby it is unsafe for the welfare
and happiness of this state, that the said family should be
suffered to continue any longer in possession thereof;
wherefore, —
It is voted and resolved, that the sheriff of the county of
1777.] AND PROVIDENCE PLANTATIONS. 345
Kings forthwith remove the said widow Slocum, and the
family that lives there, to some place at least ten miles dis-
tant from the shore.
That if the said Sarah Slocum, or either of her children,
shall, after their said removal, be found in any part of this
state, within the said distance of ten miles of any of the
shores thereof, the sheriff of the county in which they, or
either of them, may so transgress, or his deputy, is hereby
empowered and directed forthwith to apprehend and com-
mit them, or either of them, to the jail in said county ; who
shall be there confined until the further orders of this As-
sembly, or the council of war ; and that some suitable per-
son be plaecd in the house to take care of the stock, &c,
upon said farm.
And it is farther voted and resolved, that if occasion re-
quires, the sheriff aforesaid, shall call upon Col. Dyer for as-
sistance, who is hereby directed to send such aid to the said
sheriff as he may require for that purpose.
And it is further resolved, that the wife of George Wight-
man, his sons and their families (excepting the father of the
said George), and Palmer Sheldon and his family, be re-
moved by the said sheriff to the said distance of ten miles
from the said shores of this state ; and that they be appre-
hended and committed, if found within said distance, in
manner as is afore directed.
An Act for raising and equipping fifteen hundred men.
Whereas, our enemies have invaded this state with a
powerful armament, and are now in possession of the island
of Rhode Island, whereby we are imminently exposed to
still more hostile attacks, —
Be it therefore enacted by this General Assembly, and
by the authority thereof it is hereby enacted, that two bat-
talions, each consisting of six hundred men, including offi-
cers ; as also a regiment of artillery, consisting of three
hundred men, officers included, be immediately raised for
the defence of the United States in general, and of this state
voi,. vui, 44
346 RECORDS OF THE STATE OF RHODE ISLAND [DEC,
in particular ; and that the said two battalions, and regi-
ment of artillery, be formed into one brigade, under the
command of a brigadier general.
That each battalion be commanded by one colonel, one
lieutenant colonel, and one major ; and consist of eight com-
panies, to be led each by one captain, one lieutenant, and
one ensign.
That the said regiment of artillery be commanded by
one colonel, and one major ; and consist of four companies ;
which shall be led by one captain, one captain-lieutenant,
one first lieutenant, one second lieutenant, and one lieu-
tenant-fireworker ; and that there be appointed to each of
the said battalions and regiment, a paymaster, one adjutant,
and one quartermaster ; and to said battalions one surgeon,
and one surgeon's mate.
And be it further enacted by the authority aforesaid, that
each able-bodied man, who shall enlist himself into either of
said battalions and regiment, shall be furnished with one
hat, one uniform coat, two waistcoats, two pair of breeches,
three shirts, three pair of stockings, two pair of shoes, one
hunting-shirt, and one pair of overalls ; and shall also be
furnished with a blanket, knapsack, gun, bayonet, cartouch-
box, and canteen, to be returned or accounted for, at the
expiration of his service; and that he be allowed as a
bounty, £20, lawful money.
And if any man who shall be enlisted into the said brig-
ade, and shall not be approved of by the muster-master of
the battalion or regiment into which he may be enlisted,
all sum or sums of money which he shall have received,
shall be deducted from the wages of the officer who enlisted
him.
And be it further enacted, that the officers who may be
appointed in said battalions or regiment, and the non-
commissioned officers and soldiers who shall enlist into the
same, be entitled to the same wages and rations as officers
and soldiers in the Continental service.
That each able-bodied man who shall enlist himself into
1777.] AND PROVIDENCE PLANTATIONS. 347
either of the said battalions or regiment, be allowed twenty
shillings per week, after enlistment, and before he is embod-
ied ; and that he be embodied within one week after he is
enlisted.
And be it further enacted, that the said officers and sol-
diers shall receive their pay monthly ; and that eight shil-
lings, lawful money, be allowed and paid for every able-
bodied man who shall be enlisted into either of the said bat-
talions or regiment, to the officer by whom he shall be
enlisted.
And be it further enacted, that the officers and soldiers,
when embodied as aforesaid, shall be under the same rules,
orders and regulations, as those of the Continental army ;
and that each field officer and captain, who shall be ap-
pointed in the said battalions and regiment, be furnished
with a copy thereof, unless they have been heretofore fur-
nished with the same.
And be it further enacted, that each soldier be enlisted
by the following enlistment, to wit :
Form of Enlistment of the Soldiers.
" I, the subscriber, do hereby solemnly engage and enlist
myself as a soldier, in the pay of the state of Ehode Island and
Providence Plantations, for the preservation of the liberties
of America, and the defence of the United States in general,
and this state in particular, from the day of my enlistment,
until the 16th day of March, in the year of our Lord 1779,
unless sooner discharged by this Assembly ; and I hereby
promise to submit myself to all the orders and regulations
of the army ; and faithfully to observe and obey all such or-
ders as I shall receive from time to time from my officers."
And be it further enacted, that no officer or soldier be
arrested or prosecuted for any debt less than £50, lawful
money, due to one creditor; and that every apprentice
248 RECORDS OF THE STATE OF RHODE ISLAND [DeC,
who shall enlist into either of the said battalions and regi-
ment, shall be entitled to, and receive, the whole of his
bounty and wages.
It is voted and resolved, that the field officers, adjutants
and captains, for the two state battalions, and regiment of
artillery, ordered at this session to be raised, be chosen at
this session ; and that the other officers be chosen at the
next session of this Assembly.
And it is further voted and resolved, that every officer
now in the service of this state, and that shall be approved
of by the field officers of the said battalions or regiment,
and shall enlist twenty men by the next session of Assem-
bly, shall then be appointed to the office he shall be ap-
proved of for, by the said field officers.
Both houses resolved into a grand committee, chose the
following officers in the two battalions, and regiment of ar-
tillery, to wit :
Officers Chosen for the two Battalions and Regiment of Artillery.
Ezekiel Cornell, Esq., brigadier general.
Robert Elliot, Esq., colonel, of the regiment of artillery.
Archibald Craiy, Esq., colonel, of the first battalion.
William Barton, Esq., colonel, of the second battalion.
John Topham, Esq., lieutenant colonel, of the first bat-
talion.
Nathaniel Hawkins, Esq., lieutenant colonel, of the second
battalion.
Josiah Flagg, Esq., major, of the regiment of artillery.
James Williams, Esq., major, of the first battalion.
Joshua Sayer, John Garzia, Ebenezer Adams and Thomas
Carlisle, captains, in the regiment of artillery.
Christopher Manchester, Caleb Carr, Benajah Whipple,
John Carr, Reuben Ballou, James Parker, Thomas Allin and
Abimelech Riggs, captains, in the first battalion.
Samuel Phillips, Christopher Dyer, Benjamin Hoppin,
1777.] AND PROVIDENCE PLANTATIONS. 349
Benjamin West, Peleg Hoxsie, Philip Traffan, William
Whipple and Joshua Babcock, 2d, captains, in the second
battalion.
John Handy, Esq., brigade major.
Robert Carver, adjutant, of the regiment of artillery.
Nathan Olney, adjutant, of the first battalion.
Charles Handy, Jr., adjutant, of the second battalion.
Whereas, the soldiers, serving in this state, who have
been quartered in the college edifice, and other public
buildings, have broken the windows, doors and floors of the
same ; and have done other mischief, to the great hurt and
damage as well of the public as of individuals ; and notwith-
standing the frequent orders which have been issued by the
Honorable General Spencer, to prevent the same, all the
buildings where they are quartered, are marked with their
devastations ; wherefore —
It is resolved, that Major General Spencer be, and he is
hereby, requested to take such effectual methods to pre-
vent, for the future, any waste or destruction of the houses,
barracks or buildings, where the soldiers are quartered, as
to him shall appear best for the preservation thereof.
It is voted and resolved, that the soldiers who shall enlist
into the brigade ordered by this Assembly to be raised, and
to do duty until the 16th day of March, A. D. 1779,
be mustered by Ezekiel Cornell, Esq., brigadier general
thereof.
Whereas, there is a number of soldiers, now in the service
of this state, without arms, and a much larger number now
voted to be raised than is at this time in the field, —
It is therefore voted and resolved, that General Cornell
immediately apply to the several committees of safety for
two hundred small arms and bayonets, and cause the same
to be repaired, and fitted for immediate service.
That if the said number cannot be procured from the said
committees, he, in that case, purchase the number deficient,
upon the best terms he can, and as many other bayonets as
350 RECORDS OF THE STATE OF RHODE ISLAND [DEC.,
the state may require ; and that he draw the money out of
the general treasury, accordingly.
It is voted and resolved, that the council of war of this
state call forth into actual duty, such part of the militia, in-
dependent and alarm companies, within this state, for the
defence thereof, as they shall from time to time think neces-
sary, in the order in which they have been draughted, to
supply the delinqencies of the quotas to be furnished for
the purpose aforesaid, by the states of the Massachusetts
Bay, New Hampshire and Connecticut, and in the propor-
tion they shall be deficient therein.
It is further voted and resolved, that a bounty of £4,
lawful money, for every month, and in that proportion for
any shorter time, be allowed to each non-commissioned offi-
cer and private, who shall be called and do duty as afore-
said ; and that the same bounty be allowed to all the non-
commissioned officers and privates of the said militia, inde-
pendent and alarm companies, who shall do duty from and
after the rising of this Assembly.
And it is further voted and resolved, that the officers and
soldiers of the militia, independent and alarm companies,
who may be called into actual service as aforesaid, be al-
lowed the same wages and rations as the officers and sol-
diers in the Continental service.
Voted and resolved, that the following accounts be paid
out of the treasury, viz. :
Bills Ordered to be Paid.
£ s. d.
John Reynolds, for his commission for purchasing clothing for the state. . . 137 17 0
Samuel Andrews, for use of his lighter, for brick, &c 13 03 3
Mary Spencer, for amount paid by her for a substitute for her husband,
drafted for the expedition against Rhode Island, $100.
Othniel Gorton, for cost of tools for entrenchments, at Warwick Neck 4 10 0
Abraham Greene, for his attendance on the General Assembly, &c 4 13 0
Thomas Spencer, " " " " " 1 04 0
John Northup, one of the committee of safety, authorized to draw out of the
treasury 600 00 0
Edward Gorton, for his attendance on the General Assembly 18 0
Thomas Spencer, " " " " 2 19 0
1777.] AND PROVIDENCE PLANTATIONS. 351
£ s. d.
Josias Lyndon, for expenses of horse hire and expenses, to attend the As-
sembly, at Providence 5 15 0
William Channing, for do., as assistant clerk to do 4 05 6
John Sayles, Ebenezer Thompson, Esek Hopkins and Gideon Comstock, for
their services as commissioners upon the court of inquiry into the
causes of the failure of the late expedition against the enemy on Rhode
Island 19 04 0
John Northup, one of the committee of safety, authorized to draw for 2,000 00 0
David Cotterell, for a saddle, impressed by order of Gen. Varnum 4 10 0
Joshua Babcock, for guns, bayonets and cartouch boxes, furnished by him
for the use of the town of Westerly 200 00 0
Josias Lyndon, for his attendance as clerk to the Assembly, at their session
at East Greenwich 6 02 6
William Channing, for do. as assistant clerk to do 6 04 0
List of Public Acts Passed in 1777.
[The following public acts passed in the year 1777, will be found in the printed
" Schedules " for that year.]
An Act establishing and regulating fees. (June.)
An Act in amendment of an act empowering justices to meet and hold a special court
for the trial of offenders against the United States. (June.)
An Act to prevent the selling of goods at public vendue. (August.)
An Act to prevent distilling, into any kind of spirits whatever, Indian corn, rye, bar-
ley, oats or cider. (August.)
An Act assessing and apportioning a rate or tax of £32,000, lawful money, upon the
inhabitants of this state. (August.)
An Act to prevent horse-racing. (September.)
An Act assessing and apportioning a rate or tax of £48,000, lawful money, upon the
inhabitants of the state. (December.)
God save the United States of America.
352 RECORDS OF THE STATE OF RHODE ISLAND [FEB.,
Proceedings of the General Assembly, held for the State of Rhode
Island and Providence Plantations, at East Greenwich, on
the second Monday in February, 1778.
His Excellency Nicholas Cooke, Governor.
The Hon. William Bradford, Deputy Governor.
It is voted and resolved, that Messrs. Christopher Ellery
and Peleg Arnold be, and they are hereby, appointed a
committee, to examine the clothing returned into the
agent-clothier's store, for the use of the troops raised by
this state, by either of the members of the committee of
safety, or any other person ; and that they make report, as
soon as may be, to the council of war.
It is further voted and resolved, that the names of all
such persons as have not subscribed the test, who are not
members of the Society of Friends, and have not taken the
animation prescribed in an act for the relief of tender con-
sciences, be taken out of the jury box ; and that they be
not permitted in future to serve as jurors, on any jury
within this state.
It is further voted and resolved, that a copy hereof, be
forthwith transmitted to the town clerks of the several
towns within this state.
Whereas, from the present exhausted state of the treasu-
ry, it is impossible to supply the recruiting officers with a
sufficient sum for said service, and discharge the present de-
mands against the state, unless some method be adopted for
the immediate supply thereof; and it appearing to this As-
sembly impracticable to hire the sum wanted ; wherefore —
Resolved, that £53,000, part of a certain tax of £32,000,
and one other tax of £48,000, heretofore assessed and
levied upon the inhabitants of this state, for the purpose of
1778.] AND PROVIDENCE PLANTATIONS. 353
sinking the same, be borrowed out of the general treasury,
for the space of four months from the rising of this Assem-
bly, or a shorter time, if said sum can be sooner re-placed.
That as soon as the money which is due from the Conti-
nent to this state, is received, that the said sum which shall
be borrowed and received, in pursuance of this resolve, be
paid into the general treasury, and be sunk, agreeably to
the intent and meaning of the acts of this Assembly, for as-
sessing said sums on the inhabitants of this state ; and that
the money so borrowed, be applied to defray the necessary
charges of the state.
It is voted and resolved, that William Channing, Esq., at-
torney general, Eowse J. Helme and Jabez Bowen, Esqrs.,
be, and they are hereby, appointed a committee, to prepare
a bill for prescribing and establishing an oath of fidelity and
allegiance to this state ; and that they report the same, as
soon as may be.
Whereas, General Cornell hath represented unto this
Assembly, that there is a number of cannon belonging to
the state, that are rendered useless by reason of being burst
and otherwise ; and thereupon recommended to this Assem-
bly, that they would appoint some suitable persons to take
such cannon, and have them manufactured into two eight-
inch howitzers, or otherwise, as they shall think proper, —
It is therefore voted and resolved, that Major Josiah
Flagg be, and he is hereby, appointed to collect the above
mentioned cannon, and have them manufactured into two
eight-inch howitzers, as soon as may be, for the service of
this state.
Whereas, General Cornell hath represented that there
will be an absolute necessity for five hundred blankets this
spring ; and also for six hundred felt hats immediately, —
It is therefore voted and resolved, that John Reynolds,
Esq., be, and he is hereby, directed to purchase the above
articles as soon as may be.
It is voted and resolved, that the acts of this Assembly,
voh. vm. 45
354 RECORDS OF THE STATE OF RHODE ISLAND [FEB.,
allowing a bounty on salt manufactured or imported within
this state, be, and the same is hereby, repealed ; and that
said bounty be not allowed for salt heretofore manufactured
or imported, unless the person who demands the same, shall,
upon oath, declare that the same was manufactured out of
salt water, within this state, or imported previous to the
passing of this resolvo.
It is voted and resolved, that John Reynolds, Esq., agent-
clothier within this state, be, and he is hereby, empowered
to draw £10,000, lawful money, out of the general treasury,
for purchasing such necessary clothing as is directed by a
resolve of Congress, to be purchased and disposed of to the
officers commanding the troops raised by this state ; and
that said money be appropriated to purchase the blankets
and hats, ordered at this session to be procured, as well as
the necessary clothing above mentioned.
It is voted and resolved, that the four companies in the
regiment of artillery be divided into five companies, which
shall consist of the same number of officers as were assigned
to the said four companies.
Both houses being resolved in a grand committee, made
choice of the following officers, viz. :
Officers Chosen for the Militia.
»
in col. Elliott's regiment of artillery.
George Richards, quartermaster.
Gideon Westcoat, second captain.
Nathaniel Gladding, captain-lieutenant, in Capt. Sayer's
company.
Samuel Snow, captain-lieutenant, in Captain Carlile's
company.
Isaac Pitman, captain-lieutenant, in Captain Westcoat's
company.
John Warner, captain-lieutenant, in Captain Garzia's
company.
1778.] AND PROVIDENCE PLANTATIONS. 355
Christopher Robinson, captain-lieutenant, in Captain Ad-
ams's company.
Seth Barton, first lieutenant, in Capt. Carlile's company.
William Badger, first lieutenant, in Captain Westcoat's
company.
William Page, first lieutenant, in Captain Garzia's com-
pany.
Squire Howe, first lieutenant, in Captain Adams's com-
pany.
Edward Price, second lieutenant, in Captain Sayer's
company.
Benjamin Pitt, second lieutenant, in Captain Carlile's
company.
John Cleveland, second lieutenant, in Captain Westcoat's
company.
Oliver Corey, second lieutenant, in Captain Garzia's
company.
Champlin Lamphere, second lieutenant, in Capt. Adams's
company.
IN COL. CRARY'S BATTALION.
Captains — Nathan Olney, Philip Morse and William
Lawless.
First lieutenants — Philip Palmer, Rufus Barton, Benjamin
Stewart Wallcutt, Caleb Matthews, Daniel Sheldon, James
Potter, Nathaniel Humphreys and Eleazer Randall.
Second lieutenants — Benjamin Willcox, Simeon Dexter,
Joseph Chase, Elijah Armstrong, Samuel Northup, William
Richmond Wares, Thomas Smith (son of John) and Israel
Stoddard, Jr.
Daniel Singer Dexter, adjutant.
Abraham Andrews, quartermaster.
Whereas, this Assembly did heretofore appoint William
Barton, Esq., colonel of the second battalion ordered to be
raised within this state ; and whereas, the said William
356 RECORDS OF THE STATE OF RHODE ISLAND [FEB,,
Barton, Esq., hath, since his appointment, as aforesaid, been
named and chosen a colonel in the Continental service, by
the Honorable Continental Congress ; whereby the said sec-
ond battalion is destitute of a colonel ; the place being
vacant by the promotion of the said William Barton, as
aforesaid, —
Wherefore, John Topham, Esq., is chosen colonel, of the
second battalion.
Samuel Phillips, Esq., major, of Col. Topham's battalion.
James Williams, Esq., lieutenant colonel, of Col. Crary's
battalion.
Christopher Manchester, Esq., major, in the same bat-
talion.
Abraham Tourtellott, captain, in the same battalion.
OTHER OFFICERS IN COL. TOPHAM'S BATTALION.
Captain — Alexander Thomas.
First lieutenants— James Miller, John Welch, Barber
Peckham, William Dyer, Clarke Parker, Richmond Springer,
Andrew Stanton and Joseph Springer.
Second lieutenants — Amos Frink. Lebeus Cotterell, Chas.
Hewitt, John Miller, Elias Jackson, William Helme, Timothy
West and Daniel Wall.
Quartermaster — James Bliven.
Captain Malichi Hammet, is, at his request, dismissed
from his command.
Pursuant to a resolution of Congress, of the 13th of Janu-
ary last, Solomon Southwick, Esq., is appointed deputy com-
missary general of issues, within this state.
The following persons are appointed to hear petitions,
and make report thereon, viz. :
Nathaniel Searle, Jr., Esq., for the count}' of Newport.
John Dexter, Esq., for the county of Providence.
Edward Perry, Esq., far the county of Kings.
Josiah Humphrey, Esq., for the county of Bristol.
Thomas Tillinghast, Esq., for the county of Kent,
1778.] AND PROVIDENCE PLANTATIONS. 357
Whereas, the troops who are stationed in the towns of
South and North Kingstown, are put to great inconvenience
for want of a due and sufficient supply of wood ; and where-
as, the proprietors of the wood-lands, contiguous to where
the troops are quartered, do not willingly supply them
with such quantities of wood as is necessary ; and as it is
highly reasonable that each person, who is a proprietor of
wood, should furnish his quota according to a just pro-
portion,—
It is therefore voted and resolved, that the proprietors or
tenants of the wood-lands in South and North Kingstown^
which are near the vicinity of where the troops are quar-
tered, forthwith assemble, and make and assess upon them-
selves, a just proportion of wood ; and deliver the same
unto said troops in such manner as that there may be no
want thereof.
And it is further voted and resolved, that if the said in-
habitants shall refuse or neglect immediately, upon notice
hereof, to conform thereto, that Brigadier General Cornell
cause the deputy quartermaster general, in said depart-
ment, to cut off from said wood-lands a sufficient quantity
for the use aforesaid, in such manner as the said brigadier
general shall direct.
And that the said deputy quartermaster general be, and
he is hereby, empowered to impress teams for the purpose
of carting the same ; using his discretion that the inhabit-
ants in the vicinity be equally called upon, according to
their several abilities ; anything to the contrary hereof, not-
withstanding.
It is voted and resolved, that the Honorable William
Bradford and Jabez Bowen, Esqs., and Col. Christopher Lip-
pitt, be, and they are hereby, appointed to examine into
the state and usefulness of the general hospital within this
state ; and if in their opinions it should be necessary to con-
tinue said hospital, that they determine the number of offi-
cers for the same, and their pay ; and that they make re-
port to this Assembly, as soon as may be.
358 RECORDS OF THE STATE OF RHODE ISLAND [FEB.,
Whereas, there is now upon the lands lying in North
Kingstown, lately belonging to Doct. Thomas Moffatt and
Gervas Elam, a very considerable quantity of wood, which
is wanted for the use of the troops stationed in said North
Kingstown and South Kingstown ; wherefore —
Resolved, that Peter Phillips and Sylvester Gardner,
Esqs., be, and they are hereby, appointed to give directions
unto the deputy assistant-quartermaster general, to cut and
cart from time to time such quantities of wood from the
said lands, as they shall think prudent, for the supply of the
said troops ; and that the deputy quartermaster general
cause the same to be exactly measured, and an account
taken and given in to the council of war.
It is voted and resolved, that His Excellency the Gov-
ernor be, and he is hereby, requested to make and give
under his hand, the following certificate :
Certificate of the Governor of Rhode Island to Colonel William
Barton.
State of Rhode Island and Providence Plantations, )
February 14th, 1778. J
This certifies, that the General Assembly, at the December session, 1777, appointed
William Barton, Esq., colonel of a regiment ordered to be raised for twelve months,
for the defence of the United States in general, and of the state aforesaid, in
particular.
That, at the session held in February instant, Col. Barton informed the Assembly
that he had an appointment from the Most Honorable the Continental Congress, with
the rank and pay of colonel, but at present without command ; and that being most
ardently desirous of exerting his utmost abilities against the common enemy, he was
willing, provided he could obtain permission of His Excellency General Washington,
to command the said regiment, upon his pay from the Continent only ; by which
means he should also be freed from the disagreeable situation of receiving the public
money without being in actual service.
And that the Assembly taking the same into consideration, voted that Col. Barton
having received a Continental appointment, and being liable to be called from the com-
mand of said regiment, and the service of this state, upon the shortest noiicce, did
thereby vacate his office in said brigade ; and then appointed Col. Topham to the com
mand of said regiment.
Whereas, for the preservation of the rights and liberties
of the United States, it is necessary that the whole powers
of government should be exerted in recruiting the Conti-
1778.] AND PROVIDENCE PLANTATIONS. 359
nental battalions ; and whereas, His Excellency Gen. Wash-
ington hath enclosed to this state a proposal made to him
by Brigadier General Varnuin, to enlist into the two bat-
talions, raising by this state, such slaves as should be willing
to enter into the service ; and whereas, history affords us
frequent precedents of the wisest, the freest, and bravest
nations having liberated their slaves, and enlisted them as
soldiers to fight in defence of their country; and also
whereas, the enemy, with a great force, have taken posses-
sion of the capital, and of a greater part of this state ; and
this state is obliged to raise a very considerable number of
troops for its own immediate defence, whereby it is in a
manner rendered impossible for this state to furnish recruits
for the said two battalions, without adopting the said mea-
sure so recommended.
It is voted and resolved, that every able-bodied negro,
mulatto, or Indian man slave, in this state, may enlist into
either of the said two battalions, to serve during the contin-
uance of the present war with Great Britain.
That every slave, so enlisting, shall be entitled to, and re-
ceive, all the bounties, wages, and encouragements, allowed
by the Continental Congress, to any soldier enlisting into
their service.
It is further voted and resolved, that every slave, so en-
listing, shall, upon his passing muster before Col. Christo-
pher Greene, be immediately discharged from the service of
his master or mistress, and.be absolutely free, as though he
had never been encumbered with any kind of servitude or
slavery.
And in case such slave shall, by sickness or otherwise, be
rendered unable to maintain himself, he shall not be charge-
able to his master or mistress ; but shall be supported at
the expense of the state.
And whereas, slaves have been, by the laws, deemed the
property of their owners, and therefore compensation ought
to be made to the owners for the loss of their service, —
It is further voted and resolved, that there be allowed,
360 RECORDS OF THE STATE OF RHODE ISLAND [Feb.,
and paid by this state, to the owner, for every such slave so
enlisting, a sum according to his worth ; at a price not ex-
ceeding £120 for the most valuable slave ; and in propor-
tion for a slave of less value.
Provided, the owner of said slave shall deliver up to the
officer, who shall enlist him, the clothes of the said slave ;
or otherwise he shall not be entitled to said sum.
And for settling and ascertaining the value of such
slaves, —
It is further voted and resolved, that a committee of five
be appointed, to wit :
One from each county ; any three of whom, to be a quo-
rum, to examine the slaves who shall be so enlisted, after
they shall have passed muster, and to set a price upon each
slave according to his value, as aforesaid.
It is further voted and resolved, that upon any able-
bodied negro, mulatto, or Indian slave, enlisting as afore-
said, the officer who shall so enlist him, after he shall have
passed muster, as aforesaid, shall deliver a certificate there-
of, to the master or mistress of said negro, mulatto, or Indian
slave ; which shall discharge him from the service of his said
master or mistress, as aforesaid.
It is further voted and resolved, that the committee who
shall estimate the value of any slave, as aforesaid, shall give
a certificate of the sum at which he may be valued, to the
owner of said slave ; and the general treasurer of this state
is hereby empowered and directed to give unto the said
owner of the said slave, his promissory note, as treasurer, as
aforesaid, for the sum of money at which he shall be valued,
as aforesaid, payable on demand, with interest at the rate of
six per cent, per annum ; and that said notes, which shall
be so given, shall be paid with the money which is due to
this state, and is expected from Congress ; the money which
has been borrowed out of the general treasury, by this As-
sembly, being first re-placed.
1778.] AND PROVIDENCE PLANTATIONS. 3G1
Protest against Enlist lug Slaves to Serve in the Army.
We, the subscribers, beg leave to dissent from the vote of the lower house, ordering
a regiment of negroes to be raised for the Continental service, for the following rea-
sons, viz. :
1st. Because, in our opinion, there is not a sufficient number of negroes in the state,
who would have an inclination to enlist, and would pass muster, to constitute a regi-
ment ; and raising several companies of blacks, would not answer the purposes in-
tended ; and therefore the attempt to constitute said regiment would prove abortive,
and be a fruitless expense to the state.
2d. The raising such a regiment, upon the footing proposed, would suggest an idea
and produce an opinion in the world, that the state had purchased a band of slaves to
be employed in the defence of the rights and liberties of our country, which is wholly
inconsistent with those principles of liberty and constitutional government, for which
we are so ardently contending; and would be looked upon by the neighboring states
in a contemptible point of view, and not equal to their troops ; and they would there-
fore be unwilling that we should have credit for them, as for an equal number of white
troops ; and would also give occasion to our enemies to suspect that we are not able to
procure our own people to oppose them in the field ; and to retort upon us the same
kind of ridicule we so liberally bestowed upon them, on account of Dunmore's regi-
ment of blacks ; or possibly might suggest to them the idea of employing black regi-
ments against us.
3d. The expense of purchasing and enlisting said regiment, in the manner proposed,
will vastly exceed the expenses of raising an equal number of white men ; and at the
same time will not have the like good effect.
4th. Great difficulties and uneasiness will arise in purchasing the negroes from their
masters ; and many of the masters will not be satisfied wifh any prices allowed.
JOHN NORTHUP, GEORGE PEIRCE,
JAMES BABCOK, JR., SYLVESTER GARDNER,
OTHNIEL GORTON, SAMUEL BABCOCK.
Whereas, William Greene and Jabez Bowen, Esqs., who
were appointed commissioners, on the part of this state, to
meet commissioners from divers others of the United States,
at New Haven, pursuant to a resolution of the Most Honor-
able the Continental Congress of the 2 2d of November last,
reported to this Assembly a copy of the proceedings of the
said commissioners ; which being read and considered, —
It is voted and resolved, that the said report be ac-
cepted.
That the said William Greene and Jabez Bowen, together
with Col. Christopher Lippitt, be, and they are hereby, ap-
pointed a committee, to prepare a bill for regulating and
ascertaining the price of labor, &c, agreeably to the said
report.
voj,, viii, 46
362 RECORDS OF THE STATE OF RHODE ISLAND [FEB.,
That they regulate and ascertain the prices of all goods,
&c. (salt only excepted), which are not excepted by the said
resolve of Congress, and that they make report to this As-
sembly, at the next session.
It is voted and resolved, that Daniel Cahoone, Henry
Ward and Thomas Rurnreil, Esqs., be, and they are hereby,
appointed a committee, to draw instructions for the dele-
gates in Congress, respecting the articles of confederacy
proposed to this Assembly by Congress, for their considera-
tion and approbation; and that the said committee also
draw instructions, with full powers, to the delegates, to ac-
cede to the confederacy.
Whereas, it hath been represented unto this Assembly,
that the provisions which have been issued to the troops
stationed in North Kingstown, are unfit for use ; and as it
is of the highest importance that good and wholesome pro-
visions should be issued to the soldiery, —
It is therefore voted and resolved, that Ezekiel Cornell,
Esq., brigadier general, be, and he is hereby, appointed
forthwith to proceed to North Kingstown, and examine the
provisions that are in the stores, which are to be issued for
the use of said troops, and see that the same are good and
fit for use.
And it is further voted and resolved, that the said Gen.
Cornell be, and he is hereby, directed and empowered to
purchase such quantities of good provisions as are neces-
sary ; and cause the same to be issued to the said soldiers,
until the commissary can provide for them ; and that the
money for the purchase thereof, be drawn by the said Gen.
Cornell, out of the general treasury.
It is voted and resolved, that Gideon Hoxsie, Jabez Bow-
en, Job Comstock, Josiah Humphrey and Wm. Richmond,
Esqs., be, and they are hereby, appointed a committee, to
draft a bill for taking a general estimate throughout this
state.
It is voted and resolved, that Messrs. Thomas Rumreil,
Christopher Lippitt, Samuel Babcock, Thomas Tillinghast
1778.] AND PROVIDENCE PLANTATIONS. 363
and Josiah Humphrey be, and they are hereby, appointed a
committee, to estimate the value of the slaves who may em
list into the Continental battalions, agreeably to a resolve
of this Assembly.
Whereas, the Hon. William Bradford, Esq., has been, by a
resolution of this Assembly, appointed to lease the farms
heretofore taken possession of, in behalf of this state, —
It is therefore voted and resolved, that the sheriffs of the
several counties within this state, be, and they are hereby,
empowered and directed to put into the possession of the
said estates within their respective counties, the persons
who may hire the same, agreeably to said resolve.
It is voted and resolved, that the real estate in Little
Compton, in the possession of James Chace, Jr., belonging
to James Chace, now on the island of Rhode Island, be
taken possession of in behalf of this state, by the sheriff or
his deputy, for the county of Newport.
That the real estate in Scituate, in the possession of Fleet
Brown, belonging to Charles Wickham, who is also on said
island, be taken possession of by the sheriff for the county
of Providence.
That said estates be leased by His Honor the Deputy
Governor, for produce, at a public vendue, to the highest
bidder.
That the sheriff for the county of Kings, be directed to
demand and receive from Thomas Cutter, late of North
Kingstown, all the estate, both real and personal, now in
his possession, belonging to Adam Ferguson, now on said
island.
That the said real estate be rented in manner as is before
directed ; and that the sheriff render an account of the
personal estate which may be by him received, to this
Assembly.
It is voted and resolved, that Col. Christopher Greene be,
and he is hereby, empowered to draw £300, lawful money,
out of the general treasury, for paying the bounties of the
364 RECORDS OF THE STATE OF RHODE ISLAND [Feb,,
slaves, who are permitted, by a resolution of this Assembly,
to enlist into the Continental battalions.
Whereas, a very considerable number of small arms, be-
longing to the Continent, were, by General Spencer, deliv-
ered out to the generals and colonels, commanding brig-
ades, for the use of the troops who were destined for the
attack on Rhode Island ; who delivered out many of them
to the officers commanding the militia, and other officers in
the fifteen months' brigade, within this state ; and whereas,
the said gans have never been returned, and the said offi-
cers are now out of service, and neglect to collect the
same, —
It is therefore voted and resolved, that Brigadier General
Ezekiel Cornell be, and he is hereby, fully empowered, au-
thorized and directed to collect the said guns, and return
the same to General Spencer, —
And it is further voted and resolved, that the said Gen.
Cornell be, and he is hereby, empowered to call courts mar-
tial upon any and every person who received the same ; and
proceed against them, with the powers of law martial, in the
same manner as though the said persons were now in actual
military service.
It is voted and resolved, that the following instructions
be, and they are hereby, given to the delegates appointed
to represent this state in Congress, to wit :
Instructions to the Honorable Stephen Hopkins, William Ellery
and Henry Marchant, Esqs., Delegates from Rhode Island in
Congress, respecting the proposed Articles of Confederation and
perpetual Union between the Thirteen United States.
1st. T5y the fifth article, no state can be represented by less than two members.
As it will be inconvenient and burthensome for the small states to keep in Congress
more than two or three members, it may happen from sickness, death, or some other
unavoidable accident, that such state may have not more than one member present in
Congress ; and thereby be deprived of a voice, which may be highly prejudicial. You'
are therefore instructed to move in Congress for an alteration in that article ; so that
in case by sickness, death, or any other unavoidable accident, but one of the members
of a state can attend Congress, such state may be represented in Congress by one
1778.]
AND PROVIDENCE PLANTATIONS. 365
member, for such reasonable space of time as shall be agreed upon by Congress, and
ascertained by the articles of confederation.
2d. Taxes ought to be assessed equally ; and nothing will have a greater tendency
to induce freemen to submit to heavy burthens, than an opinion that they are justly
proportioned ; and as very material alterations may happen in the abilities of the dif-
ferent states to pay taxes in the course of a few years, you are instructed to move in
Congress for the following addition to the eighth article : " That such estimate be
taken and made once in every five years, at least."
3d. The King* )f Great Britain, before the present war, was vested with the prop-
erty of great Quantities of land ; and enjoyed large revenues arising from quit-rents
within the United States. By commencing and carrying on this unnatural war, with
the avowed design of reducing the United States to the most debasing and ignominious
servitude, that crown hath justly forfeited such lands and revenues. If the forfeiture
takes place, it will be in consequence of the exertions of all the United States, by whom
the war is supported. Consequently, all the United States ought to be proportionably
benefitted by the forfeiture. But should the several states in which such lands lie, and
revenues are raised, appropriate them to their separate use, they will at the end of the war,
be possessed of great funds to reimburse themselves their expenses; while those states-
which are not in that situation, although at a proportionable expense of blood and trea-
sure, in reeovering such forfeiture, not receiving any benefit therefrom, will be left to
struggle with an immense debt, which is unequal and unjust. The claim of the crown
of Great Britain to such lands and revenues, was uncontested before the present war ;
none of the suites having formed any pretensions thereto, which is another cogent arj
gument why the forfeiture ought to be vested all the United States. Omitting many
things which your attention to this important object will suggest to you, it is proper
to ebserve that Congress have promised lands to the army ; and that, unless they be
provided out of such forfeiture, several of the states, and this in particular, will be in a
very unhappy predicament. You are therefore instructed to move in Congress that it
be inserted in the articles of confederation, that all such lands and revenues be for-
feited to the United States, to be disposed of, and appropriated by Congress, for the
benefit of the whole confederacy. It is not meant, by this instruction, that Congress
should claim the jurisdiction of the forfeited lands ; but that the same should remain to
the state in which it lies.
4th. Although this Assembly deem the amendments and alterations herein pro-
posed, of very great importance, yet the completion of the union, is so indispensably
necessary, that you are instructed, after having used your utmost influence to procure
them to be made, in case they should be rejected, not to decline acceding, on the part
of this state, to the articles of confederation ; taking care that these proposed amend-
ments and alerations be previously entered upon the records of the Congress, that it may
appear they were made before tlie signing of the confederation ; and that this state
intends hereafter to renew the motion for them. This Assembly, trusting that Con-
gress, at some future time, convinced of their utility and justice, will adopt them; and
that they will be confirmed by all the states.
It is further voted and resolved, that an exemplification
of this act be made and transmitted by the secretary, to the
delegates appointed to represent this state in Congress,
who are indispensably to observe and follow the said in-
structions.
366 RECORDS OF THE COLONY OF RHODE ISLAND [Feb.,
This Assembly having taken into consideration the arti-
cles of confederation and perpetual union between the
states of New Hampshire, Massachusetts Bay, Rhode Island
and Providence Plantations, Connecticut, New York, New
Jersey, Pennsylvania, Delaware, Maryland, Virginia, North
Carolina, South Carolina and Georgia, transmitted by Con-
gress to this state ; and having had them repeatedly read,
and having maturely weighed, and most seriously deliberat-
ed upon them, as their importance to this and the other
states, and to posterity, deserves ; and considering also the
pressing necessity of completing the union, as a measure es-
sential to the preservation of the independence and safety
of the said states, —
Do vote and resolve, and it is voted and resolved, that
the Honorable Stephen Hopkins, Esq., William Ellery, Esq.,
and Henry Marchant, Esq., the delegates to represent this
state in Congress, or any one of them, be, and they are
hereby, fully authorized and empowered, on the part and
behalf of this state, to accede to and sign the said articles of
confederation and perpetual union, in such solemn form and
manner, as Congress shall think best adapted to a transac-
tion so important to the present and future generations ;
provided, that the same be acceded to by eight of the other
states.
And in case any alterations in, or additions to, the said ar-
ticles of confederation and perpetual union, shall be made by
nine of the said states, in Congress assembled, that the said
delegates, or any one of them, be, and they are hereby, au-
thorized and empowered, in like manner, to accede to and
sign the said articles of confederation and perpetual union,
with the alterations and additions which shall be so made.
It is further voted and resolved, that this Assembly will,
and do hereby, in behalf of the said state of Rhode Island
and Providence Plantations, in the most solemn manner,
pledge the faith of the said state to hold and consider the
acts of the said delegates, or any one of them, in so acceding
1778.] AND PROVIDENCE PLANTATIONS. 367
to and signing the said articles of confederation and per-
petual union, as valid and binding upon the said state in all
future time.
And it is further voted and resolved, that a fair copy of
this act be made, and authenticated under the public seal of
this state, with the signature of His Excellency the Gov-
ernor, and be transmitted to said delegates ; and that the
same shall be sufficient warrant and authority to the said
delegates, or any one of them, for the purposes aforesaid.
It is voted and resolved, that the Honorable Henry Mar-
chant, Esq., be, and he is hereby, requested to give his at-
tendance on Congress by the 20th of March next.
That when a report shall be made by the several legisla-
tures, of the articles of confederation proposed to them by
Congress, he may, with our other delegate, procure such al-
terations therein, as are agreeable to the instructions given
them by this Assembly.
It is further voted and resolved, that a copy hereof, with
an exemplification of said instructions, be transmitted to the
said Henry Marchant, Esq., that he may proceed therewith,
accordingly.
It is voted and resolved, that Holmes Wightman be, and
he is hereby, permitted to return to his house and family in
North Kingstown, to reside there ; he behaving himself as a
good and faithful subject of this state ought to do ; any
former vote to the contrary, notwithstanding.
Whereas, a considerable sum of Continental money is im-
mediately wanted, for the purchasing of the clothes, &c, or-
dered to be furnished the officers commanding the Conti-
nental troops raised by this state ; and whereas, £3,966, law-
ful money, can be borrowed for the purpose, aforesaid, from
Peter Phillips, Esq. ; and £450, lawful money, from John
Eeynolds, Esq. ; and £300 will be exchanged for the money
of this state, by Mr. Othniel Gorton ; wherefore —
Resolved, that said sum be exchanged ; and that the other
sums be borrowed ; and that the same be re-paid in Conti-
368 RECORDS OF THE STATE OF RHODE ISLAND [FEB.,
tinental money, with interest out of the general treasury, as
soon as may be.
The committee appointed to prepare a bill for establish-
ing an oath of allegiance to this state, having reported the
draught of a bill for that purpose, —
It is voted and resolved, that the consideration thereof,
be referred to the next session.
That a copy of the same be inserted in the next Provi-
dence Gazette ; and that one of the newspapers, containing
it, be transmitted to each of the town clerks in this state ;
who are hereby empowered to call town meetings, to con-
sider the said bill, that the sentiments of the freemen there-
on, may be made known to this Assembly.
Whereas, it is represented to this Assembly, that Samuel
Boone, William Boone, John Wightman (son of Valentine),
Ephraim Smith, Ebenezer Slocum, Charles Slocum and
Thomas Cutter, have gone to the island of Rhode Island,
and have joined the enemy ; wherefore —
Resolved, that if the aforenamed persons have absented
themselves, that the sheriff for the county of Kings, forth-
with take possession of their real and personal estates, in
behalf of this state.
That their real estates, if any they have, be leased by His
Honor the Deputy Governor, in the manner in which other
estates, in the possession of the state, have been directed to
be leased ; and that the personal estate be accounted for,
by the said sheriff, with this Assembly.
Voted and resolved, that the following accounts be paid
out of the treasury, viz. ;
Bills Ordered to be Paid.
£ s. d.
Richard Aylsworth, for sundry services in the state house, in East Green-
wich 1 05 &
Anthony Holden, for subsisting prisoners in Kent county jail 2 05 4
John Northup, one of the committee of safety, authorized to draw on the
treasury, for 500 00 0
1778.]
AND PROVIDENCE PLANTATIONS. 369
£ s. d.
James Rhodes, for repairs of Pawtuxet Bridge .... 1.3 01 9
Job Comstock, for twelve pair of yarn stockings furnished for the use of the
army 15 02 4
Dr. Peek Whipple, for assistance rendered to the director of the hospital. . . 4 00 0
Henry Merchant, expenses of himself, servant and horses to Philadelphia, as
a delegate to Congress 103 12 0
Timothy Lock, for carrying express 3 12 0
Benjamin Fry, for the use of his horse for two soldiers sick with the small
pox ; and for pursuing tories through Kings county to Providence 4 04 0
Josias Lyndon, for attendance on the General Assembly, as clerk 4 07 0
Thomas Spencer, for attendance, &c, upon the General Assembly, at East
Greenwich 4 13 0
William Channing, for attendance upon the General Assembly, as assistant
clerk 3 18 0
William Vincent, for material and labor furnished in repairing Pawtucket
Bridge 61 02 0
Abraham Greene, for attendance, &c, upon the General Assembly, at East
Greenwich 3 18 0
Jabez Bowen, for horse hire and expenses to New Haven, as one of the com-
missioners of this state 52 12 8
William Greene, for his expenses and services as a commissioner from this
state, to New Haven , 68 18 0
God save the United States of America.
Henry Laurens, President of the Continental Congress, to William
Greene, Speaker of the House of Representatives of Rhode
Island,
Yorktown, 23d December, 1777.
Hon. Mr. Speaker :
Sir : — I am directed by Congress to transmit to your honorable body, the enclosed
resolutions, which the pressing wants of the army, and the arts and avarice of engross-
ers and extortioners have rendered indispensably necessary to the general welfare.
It is with deep concern, that Congress, after having for some time contemplated in
painful silence, the mischiefs which threaten this extended continent, from the growing
avarice of the times, feel themselves constrained to recommend measures, which the vir
tue of all classes of men rendered not long since unnecessary ; and which a scrupulous re.
gard for the security of property to every citizen of these states, has hitherto restrained
them'from adopting; but (unhappy the case of America,) laws unworthy the charac-
ter of infant republics, are become necessary, to supply the defect of public virtue, and
to correct the vices of some of her sons ; and she is called upon by the grand principle
of self-preservation, to guard against the parricide of those whom she has fostered in her
own bosom.
To minds, whose reflections are employed on the importance of the cause in which
we are engaged, and which feel for every circumstance which may affect the honor and
safety of these states, it might give the most painful sensations to consider that, at a
time, when the late signal successes we have been blest with, the reduced numbers of
the enemy, the difficulties they meet with in procuring foreign levies, and the political
complexion of affairs in Europe, have deprived Britain of many of those resources, qq
vol, viij. 47
370 RECORDS OF THE STATE OF RHODE ISLAND [FEB.,
which she has so much depended ; when the numbers and improving discipline of our
army, the prodigious augmentation of our military stores, the quantity of provisions,
with which this country abounds, and the large supplies of clothing, which have of
late been imported by private persons, afford not only the opportunity but the means,
under Divine Providence, of establishing our liberties by a few exertions, this bright
prospect should be clouded over, and this great and glorious event endangered by the
languor of too many, and by the arts and avarice of designing individuals ; who, like the
British nabobs of the East, are corrupting the manners of a whole nation, and building
vast fortunes on the destruction of the liberties of the Western world.
It is be hoped, however, that the wise and spirited laws of the different states, aided
by the influence and exertions of the real patriots, will apply effectual remedies to these
alarming evils ; that the old and hardened offenders will be punished ; that those in
whose bosoms the sparks of public virtue are not yet extinguished, will be reclaimed;
the languid roused from their present apathy ; and that all classes of men will unite
with their former spirit and virtue against an enemy, whose progress is marked with
every vestige of barbarity, and whose determined object is to establish a tyranny of the
most dangerous and debasing nature, over the inhabitants of a vast continent.
Congress flatter themselves that the resolutions herewith tranamitted, will tend to
accomplish some of these valuable purposes ; and they therefore esteem it their duty
to recommend them to the serious consideration of your honorable house, and hope
they will be carried into execution, as expeditiously and secretly as possible.
By order of Congress :
HENRY LAURENS, President.
To the Honorable the Speaker of the lower House of Assembly, i
of Rhode Island and Providence Plantations, Providence. \
Henri/ Laurens to the Governor of Rhode Island.
Yorktown, 3d January, 1778.
Sir : — Since my last of the 23d of December, I have had the honor of your favor of
the 8th November, which had been a very long time on its passage ; it reached me no
sooner than the 31st December; and although I presented it immediately to Congress,
no order has been made upon it.
The house have been for many days past laboriously engaged not only in matters of
the very highest importance within their proper sphere, but also obliged from some
unaccountable deficiency in the several departments of quartermaster general, clothier
general and commissary general, to interfere immediately and personally in the pro-
curing of wagons, clothing, meat and flour for the army; which otherwise, from all
appearance, and from the representation of the general, would have been dispersed.
The deplorable state of the hospitals has likewise demanded the same attention.
These burdens, which may truly be marked as extraordinary and unreasonable,
fall heavy upon a very few members, from seventeen to twenty one, who faithfully
attend their duty at the expense of domestic happiness and the improvement of their
private estates.
Your Excellency, from a consideration of these circumstances, will account for what
might in a time of more regularity and tranquillity, be deemed a neglect of your very
interesting and affecting address ; and I beg you will be assured, sir, I will embrace
the earliest proper opening for bringing the state of Rhode Island into view again.
Enclosed, Your Excellency will receive an act of Congress, of the 31st ult., for pro-
moting a speedy reformation in the army, which you will be pleased to lay before the
Council.
Also a letter directed to Capt. Esek Hopkins, containing an act of Congress, dated
1778.]
AND PROVIDENCE PLANTATIONS. 371
yesterday, by which he is dismissed from the service of these states ; I have sent the
letter, under a flying seal, for Your Excellency's perusal; and that you may cause
the resolve to be made public, and particularly notified to all Continental officers here-
tofore subject to Capt Hopkins's command; you will, after such measures are affected,
be pleased to close the letter, and order it to be carefully delivered.
I have the honor to be, with great regard, sir,
Your Excellency's most obedient servant,
HENRY LAURENS, President of Congress.
To His Excellency Governor Cooke, Rhode Island, &c.
Henry Laurens to the Governor of Rhode Island.
Yorktown, 14th January, 1778.
Sir : — Your Excellency's letter, dated in Council of War, 8th November, did not
reach me till the 31st December. I immediately reported to Congress, and the con-
tents have been duly considered.
I have in charge to transmit you an act of Gongress, of the 13th inst., recommend-
ing to the Eastern states to keep up the army stationed for the defence of Rhode Is-
land and Providence Plantations ; and for divers other purposes, which Congress hope
will prove beneficial to the state. Your Excellency will receive the act under cover
with this, and to which I beg leave to refer. Congress are in no doubt but that from
the quantity of clothing which has lately been imported into Massachusetts and New
Hampshire, you have made the necessary provision for your Continental battalions.
Your Excellency will also find enclosed a very solemn and important act of Congress
dated 8th inst., for suspending the embarkation of Lieut. Gen. Burgoyne, and his
troops, until the convention of Saratoga shall be distinctly and explicitly ratified by the
court of Great Britain, and properly notified to Congress. A measure which Congress
hold to be equally justifiable and necessary, and are therefore confident their resolu-
tions will be coufirmed by the approbation of all their constituents in the United States,
and that the justice and good policy of the act will be acknowledged by every disinter-
ested court in Europe.
I have the honor to be, with great regard, sir,
Your obedient and humble servant,
HENRY LAURENS, President of Congress.
To His Excellency, Nicholas Cooke, Esq., Providence.
372 EECORDS OF THE STATE OF RHODE ISLAND [MARCH,
Proceedings of the General Assembly, held for the State of Bhode
Island and Providence Plantations, at South Kingstown, on
Monday, the 9th dag of March, 1778.
His Excellency Nicholas Cooke, Governor. ,
The Hon. William Bradford, Deputy Governor.
It is Voted and resolved, that Simon Smith, Stephen Cong-
don and Ezekiel Austin, be permitted to subscribe the test,
heretofore ordered to be subscribed by the inhabitants of
this state; before either house of Assembly.
It is voted and resolved, that David Austin be, and he is
hereby, permitted to remove three tons of hay from off the
farm leased him the last year by this state.
Whereas, David Shearman, James Whitehorn, John Albro,
Jr., and Clarke Albro, preferred a petition, and represented
unto this Assembly, that not having occasion to transact
much business, they have hitherto omitted to subscribe the
test prescribed by law in this state, not thinking but that
they might have liberty to sign the same whenever they
should have occasion so to do ; and thereupon prayed this
Assembly to grant them liberty to subscribe the said test ;
and the premises being duly considered, —
It is voted and resolved, that the prayer of the aforegoing
petition be, and the same is hereby, granted ; and that the
petitioners, together with Eleazer Trevett, Benjamin Perry,
Samuel Helme, Daniel Tefft, 3d, Job Hawkins and Robert
Shearman, be, and they are hereby, permitted to subscribe
the said test, before either of the justices of the superior or
inferior courts within this state.
Whereas, the time for collecting the tax of £48,000, law-
ful money, heretofore assessed upon the inhabitants of this
state, hath expired, —
17 78.] AND PROVIDENCE PLANTATIONS. 373
It is therefore voted and resolved, that the said time be
lengthened ; and that the collectors of taxes, in the several
towns, be allowed twenty days after the rising of this As-
sembly, to collect and pay the same into the general treas-
ury ; and the general treasurer is directed to issue execu-
tions against the town treasurers of the towns who may be
delinquent, immediately after the expiration thereof.
Whereas, the Hon. John Foster, Esq., judge of the mari-
time court in this state, preferred a memorial, and repre-
sented unto this Assembly, that the council of war have
recommended it to him to tax an account respecting the
capture of the ship Syren, in the bill of cost ; but that they
have not ordered and directed him to do it.
That he is willing and desirous to pay all due respect to
the council of war ; but as they have not ordered him to do
so singular a thing, there being no law either for or against
doing it, and he considers himself only as the servant of the
General Assembly, and cannot pretend to any authority but
what he receives from them ; and as the said account
amounts to so large a sum, he therefore humbly prays this
Assembly to direct and order whether the amount of the
said account shall be taxed in the said bill, and deducted
out of the amount of the sales of the ship Syren, for the use
of this state, before any distribution be made to the captors
or not ; this Assembly having relinquished all their claims
to the said prizes, or any part thereof, do, on consideration
of the said memorial, —
Vote and resolve, and it is voted and resolved, that the
judge of the maritime court, in this state, be, and he is here-
by, ordered and directed, to tax the amount of the said ac-
count, being £470 8s. M., in the bill of cost, against the
said ship Syren ; and that the same be deducted from the
amount of the sales previous to any distribution made to
the captors ; this state having relinquished all their claims
to the said prizes, or any part thereof.
It is voted and resolved, that the council of war be em-
powered to dispose of the cannon at Bedford ; and such
374 RECORDS OF TltE STATE OF RHODE ISLAND [MARCH,
other cannon, belonging to the state, as in their opinion may
not be necessary for the service of the state.
Whereas, Mr. Joseph Ballon, preferred a petition, and
represented unto this Assembly, that by the assistance of
several skilful miners, he hath discovered a silver mine in
his land in Cumberland.
That by a trial already made, it appears to be very
valuable.
That there will be great expense in opening the same j
and that without assistance, he is not able to carry on such
an undertaking ; which, when erected, will prove of singu-
lar use to the United States in general, and to this state in
particular ; and thereupon prayed this Assembly to grant
him liberty to set forth a lottery, to raise the sum of £3,000,
lawful money, to be appropriated for the purpose of opening
the said silver mine ; upon which condition, he doth promise
and engage, that this state shall have and receive the one-
fifth part of the said mine, upon being at that proportion
of the expense, after the said mine shall be opened as afore-
said ; and the premises being duly considered, —
It is voted and resolved, that Col. Jabez Bowen, Jonathan
Arnold and Esek Hopkins, Esq., be, and they are hereby^
appointed a committee, to take into consideration the afore-
going petition ; to go upon the ground where it is supposed
the said mine hath been discovered ; and to make proper
examination and inquiry respecting the circumstances of
the same, and probability of success ; and that they make
report to this Assembly.
Whereas, Benjamin Slack, Daniel Manton, Edward Fen-
ner, Caleb Harris and William Potter, commissioned officers
of the troop of horse, preferred a petition, and represented
unto this Assembly, that influenced by the purest motives
of regard and love for the safety, honor and happiness of
their country, at a time when invaded by a numerous and
powerful enemy, in the year 1775, they, with others now
belonging to the said troop, formed the design of establish-
ing a troop of horse for the defence of the country.
1778.] AND PROVIDENCE PLANTATIONS. 375
That this Assembly granted them a charter, with the
powers and privileges therein contained.
That in consequence thereof, and that they might not be
unworthy of the favors therein granted, they have been at
a very great expense in keeping suitable horses and mili-
tary equipage, always ready at a moment's warning to go
upon immediate duty.
That they have always fully performed every thing re-
quired of them by their charter; not doubting but that the
privileges and honors therein contained, would be fully pre-
served upon them.
That their horses, which are the best in the country, have
been in the service of the public, in going expresses, &c, at
only two shillings per day expense to the state.
That in the late intended expedition upon Rhode Island,
one-half of the said troop wras on duty.
That the use of their horses and necessary expenses, have
always exceeded their wages.
And that, notwithstanding the privileges in their char-
ter, doubts have arisen whether they are entitled to the
same payment as officers of foot of the same rank, in the
militia ; upon which account, payment for their services in
the said expedition hath been delayed.
And thereupon, they prayed this Assembly to take the
premises into consideration, and to order that such of them
as have been in the service of the state at any time here-
tofore, and have not been paid, be allowed and paid the
same wages as have been allowed to officers of the same
rank in the militia regiments of foot, which they conceive
themselves clearly entitled to, by their charter ; and the
premises being duly considered, —
It is voted and resolved, that Col. Christopher Lippitt,
Gideon Comstock, Esq., and Major Sylvester Gardner, be,
and they are hereby, appointed a committee, to take into
consideration the aforegoing petition ; and that they make
report thereof to this Assembly, at the next session.
It is voted and resolved, that the oil in the possession of
376 RECORDS OF THE STATE OF RHODE ISLAND [MARCH,
Mr. Martin Luther, which was delivered him by Jacob
Isaacs of Newport, be taken possession of by the sheriff for
the county of Bristol, in behalf of this state ; that he make
report to the council of war within ten days after the rising
of this Assembly ; and that the same be disposed of under
their direction.
It is voted and resolved, that the masters of all negro
slaves, who are bound out as apprentices, that already have
enlisted, or shall enlist into the Continental service, shall be
entitled to receive out of the general treasury the annual
interest of the sum the said slaves shall be appraised at;
until the expiration of their apprenticeships ; and that the
money remain in the treasury until the expiration of the
said apprenticeships, and then be paid to the owner without
interest.
It is voted and resolved, that Walter Clarke, of Rich-
mond, Peter Smith, of South Kingstown and Samuel Under-
wood, of Exeter, be allowed and permitted to subscribe the
test prescribed by this state ; and thereupon they shall be
entitled to all the benefits and advantages thereby arising
to the subjects of this state, in as full a manner as though the
same had been subscribed by them at any time heretofore.
It is voted and resolved, that His Honor the Deputy
Governor be, and he is hereby, empowered to receive the
back rents due for the farms taken possession of in behalf of
this state ; and that he pay the same into the general
treasury.
Whereas, Henry Marchant, Esq., as delegate for this
state, in the Continental Congress, was required by this
Assembly, at their last session, to proceed to Congress,
so as to join that body by the 20th of March, —
It is voted and resolved, that the reasons offered by him
for not proceeding, are satisfactory, and that this Assembly
approve of his conduct therein.
Whereas, the Most Honorable the Continental Congress
did, on the 22d of November last, pass the following resolu-
tion to wit ;
1778.] AND PROVIDENCE PLANTATIONS. 377
Resolution of Congress relative to Supplies for the War to he fur-
nished by the several States,
" Whereas, great advantages have arisen from the establishment of Continental loan
offices, on which Congress continue to place great dependence ; in order, therefore, as
tiir as it is practicable, to ascertain the supplies for the war, which may be raised in
the several states, upon loan office certificates, —
Resolved, that it be recommended to the legislatures, or in the recess of any of them,
to the executive authority of the respective states, to cause subscriptions to be opened,
under the inspection of one or more respectable citizens within each town or district,
specifying the names of the lenders, and the sums they are willing to lend ; and that a
copy of such subscription papers shall, from time to time, be sent to the respective
commissioners of the said loan offices, and by them transmitted to Congress ; pro-
vided, that no certificate shall issue for less than §200."
Which being duly considered, —
It is voted and resolved, That the following persons be
appointed for the purpose, aforesaid, to wit :
His Honor the Deputy Governor, Messrs. Thomas Rum-
reil, John Brown, James Rhodes, Joshua Babcock, John
Northup, Samuel Babcock, Thomas Tillinghast, John Sayles,
Timothy Hopkins, Asa Kimball, Gideon Hoxsie, Thomas
Gorton, Elihu Greene, Pardon Tillinghast, Pardon Gray, Na-
thaniel Searle, Jr., Cromel Child, James Lovett, Edward
Perry, Christopher Lippitt, George Thurston, Caleb Harris?
Stephen Jenckes and Josiah Humphrey.
It is further voted and resolved, that they make report
of their doings to this Assembly, at the next session ;
and that a copy hereof, be sent to each of the above named
persons.
An Act in addition to, and amendment of, an act passed
the last session of this Assembly, for assessing a tax of
£32,000.
[See printed Schedule for the act.]
It is voted and resolved, that General Cornell be, and he
is hereby, empowered and directed to make such repairs on
the house in North Kingstown, belonging to William
Greene, Esq., which hath been made use of, and is further
VQ£ Till, 48
378 RECORDS OF THE STATE OF RHODE ISLAND [MARCH,
wanted, as a guard-house, as may be necessary for accom-
modating the soldiers who may be quartered in the same.
It is voted and resolved, that John Collins, Esq., be, and
he is hereby, appointed and required, to proceed to Con-
gress, with the accounts of this state against the United
States ; there to confer with the delegate or delegates of
this state thereon ; and that the delegates of this state be
requested to apply to Congress for the amount of the sum
due to this state ; and that the said John Collins, as soon as
the said money shall be ordered, and be by him received,
bring the same forthwith, and lodge the same in the gen-
eral treasury of this state.
Whereas, Ezekiel Cornell and Christopher Lippitt, Esqs.,
presented unto this Assembly the following report, to
wit :
Jieport of the Committee appointed to examine, &c, into certain
Military Abstracts.
To the Honorable the General Assembly, now sitting at South Kingstown :
We, the subscribers, being appointed, by this Assembly, a committee, to examine
and certify certain abstracts now in our hands, do, upon examining the same, beg lib-
erty to represent the following facts :
1st. Adjutants and quartermasters have done duty, and charged their pay, when
there was not a sufficient number of men on duty to entitle them to the same, agreeably
to an act of this Assembly, of the 30th of April last.
2d. A much larger number of captains and subalterns than are entitled to their pay
by the abovesaid act, have also charged for the same ; also subalterns have charged
captains' pay ; and sergeant-majors, and quartermaster-sergeants, quartermasters
pay.
3d. There is a much larger number of privates in the abstracts, than are contained
in the weekly returns.
4th. Several guards called on duty, by the Honorable Major General Spencer, have
charged the same bounty that was given from time to time to the militia, without any
authority sc to do.
All which being fully considered, we are of the opinion that we are not clothed with
power sufficient to do justice both to the public and individuals. Where men have
done service equally alike, it is difficult for us to say which shall receive pay, and which
not, with any degree of certainty ; we would rather recommend that so much be al-
lowed as appears just, agreeably to the abovesaid act and the weekly returns ; and
that an equal dividend be made to and among the whole number charged, according
to their pay.
Of the guards that were appointed by General Spencer, we can say nothing more
than that the committees of safety have heretofore, as we have been informed, allowed
them the same bounty the militia have had. It appears the .acts of government are
1778.] AND PROVIDENCE PLANTATIONS. 379
silent in regard to them. We have before us General Spencer's orders for fixing some
of them, in which he promiseth them pay and rations that shall enlist to the number
settled.
We beg liberty further to represent, that it is our humble opinion, that neither adju-
tants nor quartermasters, serving in open violation of law, be allowed any pay, al-
though the service is done.
There being a number of abstracts that there are no weekly returns to support, we
would recommend that the privates be paid according to the several abstracts ; and
that the officers be treated as other officers are ; but that this be not brought as a pre-
cedent in future.
All which is submitted, by —
Your Honors' most obedient, humble servants,
EZEKIEL CORNELL,
CHRISTOPHER LIPPITT,
Committee.
And the premises being duly considered, —
It is voted and resolved, that the said report be re-
ceived.
That said committee, together with Nathaniel Mum ford,
Esq., auditor of accounts, settle and adjust the accounts of
the officers and privates, therein referred to, agreeably to
the said report.
That the guards appointed by Major General Spencer be
allowed and paid the bounties, pay and rations, agreeably
to the assurance given them by Major General Spencer ;
but that the same be not called into precedent in future, of
which the said committee are required to inform Major
General Spencer ; and that the supernumerary officers re-
ceive pay as privates.
Whereas, the Honorable William Bradford, Esq., was em-
powered by a resolution of this Assembly, to lease the es-
tates taken possession of by this state, at public vendue, to
such persons only as should be friendly to the United
States ; and in pursuance thereof, at a public vendue, the
real estate in Point Judith was struck off to William Gor-
ton, of New London, in the state of Connecticut, who was
the highest bidder for the same ; and whereas, it hath been
represented to this Assembly, that the said William Gorton
is inimical to the United States ; wherefore —
It is voted and resolved, that a messenger be immediately
380 RECORDS OF THE STATE OF RHODE ISLAND [MARCH,
dispatched with a letter from His Honor the Deputy Govern-
or, to the committee of New London, to obtain information
of the character and conduct of the said William Gorton ;
and if the said committee shall not certify that the said
William is friendly to the United States, —
It is further voted and resolved, that the bid of the said
William, made as aforesaid, be, and the same is hereby, de-
clared null and void ; and that the said estate be leased to
Job Watson, who was the next highest bidder, if he inclines
to take a lease thereof, for the sum of money, and upon the
conditions he bid for the same ; or otherwise, the Deputy
Governor is empowered to lease the same at public vendue,
agreeably to the former resolution of this Assembly ; and
that the said William Gorton be notified thereof, as soon as
may be.
It is voted and resolved, that the general treasurer be,
and hereby is, directed to hire a sum of money (if needed,
to supply the treasury,) not exceeding £20,000, lawful
money ; and that he give his note or notes for the same,
payable upon demand, with interest at six per cent, per an-
num, until paid.
It is voted and resolved, that this Assembly do approve
of the resolution of the council of war, made and passed in
March current, respecting allowing the officers two shil-
lings, lawful money, for each retained ration ; and that the
same continue in force until repealed by this Assembly, or
the council of war.
It is voted and resolved, that all the officers and soldiers
who have been in the service of this state, in the fifteen
months' brigade, whose time of enlistment expires on the
16th day of March instant, be paid by the several commit-
tees of safety all the wages due to them, immediately upon
the expiration of their enlistments.
That such of the said soldiers as have not been furnished
with the clothing, hats or shoes, promised to them at the
time they entered the service, have the same immediately
furnished and delivered ; or that the person or persons to
1778.] AND PROVIDENCE PLANTATIONS. 381
whom the same is due, be paid therefor such price for the
deficient articles, as the council of war shall assess^ at the
option of the person to whom the same is due.
And whereas, it hath been represented, that more cloth-
ing for the said brigade hath been issued out from the sev-
eral committees, than was sufficient for clothing the said
brigade ; and hath not been delivered agreeably to the or-
der of the Assembly, —
It is therefore ordered, that the several committees of
safety make strict inquiry respecting the same, and call the
persons to whom the same was delivered, to account there-
for ; and that the several committees of safety, throughout
the state, immediately send forward all the cloth or clothing,
in their possession, to the agent-clothier, at Providence.
It is voted and resolved, that Mr. Job Watson be per-
mitted to remove his hay from off the farm at Point Judith,
heretofore leased him by this state, unless he should hire
the same, or should obtain permission from the person to
it may be leased, to use the hay on said farm ; and that he
be permitted to fodder out his hay upon said farm, until the
20th day of April next.
That the said Job Watson and Stephen Champlin retain
each $120 of the rent due for said estate, until the next ses-
sion of this Assembly ; when the damages they may have
received in not being put into possession of said estate, at
the time mentioned in the lease, may be inquired into, and
determined by this Assembly.
It is voted and resolved, that the report of the committee
appointed to draft a bill ascertaining the prices of goods, &c,
agreeably to the report of the committee convened at New
Haven, be accepted ; and that the consideration of the said
report, and the bill for prescribing an oath of fidelity and
allegiance, be, and the same are hereby, referred to the next
session of this Assembly.
It is voted and resolved, that John Reynolds, Esq.,
agent-clothier in this state, immediately purchase silk suffi-
cient to make two standards for the regiments now raising
382 RECORDS OF THE STATE OF RHODE ISLAND [MARCH,
in this state ; of the quality and quantity that Col. Bowen
shall direct.
It is voted and resolved, that Messrs. Gideon Hoxsie, Jo-
seph Hoxsie and James Babcock be, and they are hereby,
appointed a committee to value the stock, belonging to the
estate at Point Judith Point, agreeably to the last lease of
the said estate, and deliver the same to the person who may
hire the said estate the year ensuing.
It is voted and resolved, that it be, and it is hereby, re-
commended to the council of war, to meet at the expense
of the state, no more than six days in every other week ;
unless the importance of the business should make it neces-
sar}^, in the opinion of His Excellency the Governor, for the
council to meet oftener.
That they do not meet on Sundays, unless on great and
urgent occasions ; and that the council of war insert an ad-
vertisement in the Providence Gazette, giving notice of the
time they shall appoint for transacting the public business.
It is voted and resolved, that the general treasurer be,
and he is hereby, directed to put in suit the thirty per cent,
bonds given by the town treasurers, who were committed to
jail upon executions issued by the general treasurer, for
taxes which were due and unpaid, to the first court proper
to try the same.
It is voted and resolved, that the sheriff for the county
of Kings, or his deputy, be, and he is hereby, directed to sell
all the personal estate of Samuel Boone, lately residing in
North Kingstown ; and all the estate of Thomas Cutter,
consisting of snuff, &c, now in Hopkinton, at public vendue,
as soon as may be, after once advertising the same in the
Providence Gazette.
That the snuff, &c, in Hopkinton, be sold at the place
called Hopkinton City.
That the said sheriff pay the taxes, which are due from
the estate of Samuel Bourn, out of the moneys arising from
the sale of his said estate ; and that he pay the remainder
thereof, into the general treasury.
1778.] AND PROVIDENCE PLANTATIONS. 383
It is voted and resolved, that all persons within this state,
who have neglected to subscribe the test prescribed by an
act of the General Assembly, be, and they are hereby, per-
mitted to subscribe the same, before either the superior or
inferior court of the county within which the person lives,
who shall apply at any time on or before the first Wednes-
day in May next ; provided, that the said courts shall, upon
inquiry and examination into the life, conduct and con-
versation of the person applying, be convinced he is a
friend to the independence of this state, and of the United
States.
That upon their subscribing said test, they shall be en-
titled to, and receive, the same benefits, advantages and im-
munities, as the subjects of this state are, who have already
subscribed the same ; any act to the contrary hereof, not-
withstanding ; and that this act be published three weeks,
successively, in the Providence Gazette.
It is voted and resolved, that those persons who were
known to be freemen in either of the towns of Newport,
Portsmouth, Middletown and Jamestown, before the enemy
took possession thereof, be, and they are hereby, authorized
and empowered to meet for the purpose of choosing general
officers and deputies for their respective towns, at the fol-
lowing places to wit :
Those of Portsmouth and Middletown, at the house of
William Durfey, in Tiverton.
Those of Jamestown, at the house of Matthew Allen, in
North Kingstown, on the third Wednesday of April next ;
and at each of the said places at 10 o'clock, in the forenoon,
they conducting such choice agreeably to the usages and
practices in their respective towns heretofore ; and that a
copy of this resolve be inserted in the next Providence
Gazette.
It is voted and resolved, that the sheriff for the county
of Kings, purchase two gallons of rum, on account of the
state, and deliver the same to the soldiers who have been
employed as guards during the sitting of this Assembly,
384 RECORDS OF THE STATE OF RHODE ISLAND [MARCH,
It is voted and resolved, that the colonels of the several
regiments of militia within this state, be, and they are here-
by, empowered to receive a sufficient number of cartridges
and flints, belonging to this state, from the laboratory,
or elsewher3, to furnish the captains of the several alarm
and militia companies, belonging to their respective regi-
ments which are deficient, so that each soldier in their re-
spective companies be supplied with seventeen rounds, and
with two flints ; the colonels and captains giving and taking
receipts for the same.
That the captains of the several companies choose out a
sufficient number of cartridges to fit the bore of the gun of
each soldier in his company, wrap them up in paper, and
mark thereon the names of the persons for whom they are
chosen out.
That they keep them in their possession until an alarm,
when they are to be delivered to the soldiers ; and that the
commanding officer of each independent company in this
state be empowered in like manner to receive a sufficient
number of cartridges and flints for his company, and direct-
ed to observe the same order respecting them, as is above
given to the captains of the militia and alarm companies.
It is further voted and resolved, that whenever the sev-
eral companies shall be dismissed from the service upon
which they shall at any time be called out, the captain or
commanding officer of each company shall collect the cart-
ridges which shall not have been expended, and wrap them
up, and keep them in manner as above directed ; and
that return be made to the colonel or commanding officer
of each regiment, or independent company, of the cartridges
which shall or may be expended, and of the occasion, that
they may be re-placed.
And it is further voted and resolved, that His Excellency
the Governor be, and he is hereby, requested to issue his
warrant to each colonel and commanding officer aforesaid,
agreeably to this act, that the same may be carried into ex-
ecution immediately.
1778.] AND PROVIDENCE PLANTATIONS. 385
Voted and resolved, that the following accounts be paid
out of the general treasury, viz. :
Bills Ordered to he Paid.
£ s. d.
Pardon Tabor, of Tiverton, for cleaning the meeting bouse, in which the sol-
diers bad been quartered 2 00 0
Richard Bailey, Jr., one of the town council of Richmond, for moneys ad-
vanced, and services rendered, in hiring men to do duty upon the
shores 3 14 0
"Walter Cook, for bis time and expenses in numbering the inhabitants of
Tiverton, in the year 1776 3 00 0
Daniel Hall, for his time and expenses in carrying letters that came in a flag
of truce from Newport, to the council of war, at Providence 1 16 0
Pardon Gray authorized to draw from the general treasury, for paying the
wages and repairs of the sloop Diamond 200 00 0
"William Potter, for his time and a number of hands, for sundry services ren-
dered at the state house, in Kings county, &c 54 06 0
Daniel Billington, for boarding Thomas Billington, a sick soldier at his
house 4 10 0
"William Potter, for wood supplied by him, for the use of the courts, in Kings
county 9 00 0
Daniel Rodman, for his attendance upon the General Assembly, at the May
session, 1777, as secretary . 2 08 0
"William Channing, for his attendance upon the General Assembly, as assist-
ant clerk 7 07 0
Beriah Waite, for carrying acts of Assembly to the colonels of militia, &c,
in Kings county 10 10 0
Nathaniel Helme, for his attendance upon the General Assembly, at the
present session 3 15 0
Ebenezer Tefft, for his attendance, &c, upon the General Assembly, at the
present session 4 04 0
Joseph Cross, for his attendance on the committee to hear private petitions, 1 10 0
Solomon Tefft, for his attendance on the General Assembly, at the present
3 15 0
God save the United States of America.
Horatio Gates to the Governor of Rhode Island.
"War and Ordnance Office, i
March 3d, 1778. j
Circular.]
Sir : — Since writing the enclosed letter, the board judged it expedient to transmit
it to the agent, through Your Excellency, and the Honorable Council, that the con-
veyance may be more certain, and that we might have an opportunity of asking your
and Council's assistance.
The letter is open for perusal ; which when read, we pray you to seal and forward
immediately to the agent, by a safe conveyance, The importance of the business we
vol. vin. 49
386 RECORDS OF THE COLONY OF RHODE ISLAND [MAY,
trust, will be a sufficient apology for our giving you this trouble ; and we beg you to
urge on the agent to the most vigorous exertions, and as far as possible, prevent any
delays in him or others, who may be concerned in the execution of this order. Should
money be wanting, and 'tis in the power of the state to supply it, we hope the business
will not be retarded for want of it.
I am, sir, with great respect,
Yours, and the Council's most obedient, humble servant,
HORATIO GATES, President.
To His Excellency Nicholas Cooke.
I have the honor to enclose tbe resolutions of Congress, recommending it to the
young gentlemen of property in the state of Rhode Island, to form a volunteer troop,
or troops of light cavalry ; also a descriptive list of the accoutrements necessary, as di-
rected by Congress.
Proceedings of the General Assembly, held for the State of Rhode
Island and Providence Plantations, at Providence, on the first
Wednesday in May, 1778.
The following named officers, declared elected, were duly
engaged :
His Excellency William Greene, Governor.
The Hon. Jabez Bowen, Deputy Governor.
ASSISTANTS.
John Tanner, Esq., Gideon Comstock, Esq.,
Christopher Ellery, Esq., Job Randall, Esq.,
John Sayles, Esq., Peter Phillips, Esq.,
Jonathan Arnold, Esq., Immanuel Case, Esq.,
James Arnold, Jr., Esq., Pardon Grey, Esq.
DEPUTIES.
Ncivport. Providence.
Henry Ward, Esq., Mr. John Updike,
Mr. Thomas Rumreil, Maj. Elihu Robinson,
Mr. William Borden. Theodore Foster, Esq.
Mr. Robert Stevens, Jr., Capt. Paul Allen.
1778.]
AND PROVIDENCE PLANTATIONS.
387
DEPUTIES.
Warwick.
John "Warner, Esq.,
Mr. Thomas Holden,
Mr. John Greene,
Mr. Thomas Rice, Jr.
Westerly.
Joshua Babcock, Esq.
North Kingstown.
John Northnp, Esq.,
Maj. Sylvester Gardner.
South Kingstown.
Mr. Enoch Haszard,
Rowse J. Helme, Esq.
East Greenwich.
Job Comstock, Esq.,
Thomas Tillinghast, Esq.
Jamestown.
Capt. Samuel Carr,
Benjamin Underwood Esq.
Smithfielcl.
Caleb Aldrich, Esq.
Mr. Peleg Arnold.
Scituate.
Timothy Hopkins, Esq.,
Mr. Christopher Potter.
Glocestcr.
Timothy Wilmarth, Esq.
Mr. Caleb Arnold.
Charleston))!.
Col. Joseph Stanton, Jr.,
Jonathan Haszard, Esq.
West Crreemvich.
Thomas Gorton, Esq.,
Judiah Aylsworth, Esq.
Coventry.
Stephen Potter, Esq.,
Mr. Daniel Bucklin.
Exeter.
George Peirce, Esq.,
John Chajmian, Esq..
Bristol.
William Bradford, Esq.,
Nathaniel Fales, Esq.
Tiverton.
Capt. Isaac Manchester,
William Cooke, Esq.
Little Compton.
Nathaniel Searle, Jr., Esq.,
Mr. Adam Simmons.
Warren.
Mr. Cromel Child.
Cumberland.
James Lovett, Esq.,
Mr. John Lapham.
Richmond.
Edward Perry, Esq.,
Robert Stanton, Esq.
Cranston.
Christopher Lippitt, Esq.,
Mr. Peter Burlingame, 3d.
HopJcinton.
Thomas Wells, Esq.,
George Thurston, Esq.
Johnston.
Mr. John Smith,
Caleb Harris, Esq.
388 RECORDS OF THE STATE OF RHODE ISLAND [MAY,
DEPUTIES.
North Providence. Barrington.
Esek Hopkins, Esq., Josiah Humphrey, Esq.
Mr. Esek Esten.
The Hon. Joshua Babcock, speaker ; William Charming,
Esq., clerk.
Henry Ward, Esq., secretary.
William Channing, Esq., attorney general.
Joseph Clarke, Esq., general treasurer.
DELEGATES TO REPRESENT THE STATE IN CONGRESS.
The Hon. Stephen Hopkins, Esq.,
The Hon. William Ellery, Esq.,
The Hon. Henry Marchant, Esq.,
The Hon. John Collins, Esq.
JUSTICES OF THE SUPERIOR COURT.
Shearjashub Bourn, Esq., chief; Thomas Wells, Esq.,
second ; Paul Mumford, Esq., third ; Stephen Potter, Esq.,
fourth ; and Christopher Lippitt, Esq., fifth.
JUSTICES OF THE COURT OF COMMON PLEAS, FOR NEWPORT COUNTY.
Benjamin Underwood, Esq., chief; Christopher Ellery,
Esq., second ; Walter Cooke, Esq., third ; Philip Taylor,
Esq., fourth ; William Taggart, Esq., fifth.
JUSTICES OF THE COURT OF COMMON PLEAS, FOR PROVIDENCE COUNTY.
Thomas Greene, Esq., chief; Richard Steere, Esq., second ;
Rufus Hopkins, Esq., third ; Jeremiah Whipple, Esq., fourth ;
and Daniel Mowry, Jr., Esq., fifth.
1778.] AND PROVIDENCE PLANTATIONS. 389
JUSTICES OF THE COURT OF COMMON PLEAS, FOR KINGS COUNTY.
William Potter, Esq., chief ; John Northup, Esq., second;
Carder Hazard, Esq., third ; Joseph Hoxsie, Esq., fourth ;
and Immanucl Case, Esq., fifth.
JUSTICES OF THE COURT OF COMMON PLEAS, FOR BRISTOL COUNTY.
Nathaniel Fales, Esq., chief; John Child, Esq., second;
Joseph Reynolds, Esq., third ; and Josiah Humphrey, Esq.,
fourth.
JUSTICES OF THE COURT OF COMMON PLEAS, FOR KENT COUNTY.
Philip Greene, Esq., chief; James Arnold, Jr., Esq., sec-
ond ; Gideon Mumford, Esq., third ; Benjamin Tillinghast,
Esq., fourth ; Preserved Pearce, Esq., fifth.
JUDGE OF THE COURT OF ADMIRALTY.
John Foster, Esq., judge of the court erected for the trial
of maritime causes, in and throughout the state.
SHERIFFS OF THE SEVERAL COUNTIES.
Neicport county. Bristol county.
Jabez Champlin, Esq. Richard Smith, Esq.
Providence county. Kent county.
William Rhodes, Esq. Richard Fry, Esq.
Kings county.
Beriah Brown, Esq.
John Foster, Samuel Chace and James Arnold, Jr., Esqs.,
the grand committee, or state's trustees.
John Foster, Esq., keeper of the grand committee's office.
Jacob Whitman, Esq., general sealer of weights and mea-
sures within and throughout the state.
190 RECORDS OF THE STATE OF RHODE ISLAND [MaY.
FIELD OFFICERS FOR THE STATE, IN THE SEVERAL COUNTIES.
John Mathewson, Esq., colonel, of the first regiment of
militia, in the comity of Providence.
Joseph Noyes, Esq., colonel, of the first regiment of mili-
tia, in the county of Kings.
Nathan Miller, Esq., colonel, of the regiment of militia, in
the county of Bristol.
Thomas Holclen, Esq., colonel, of the first regiment of mi-
litia, in the county of Kent.
John Cooke, Esq., colonel, of the second regiment of mili-
tia, in the county of Newport.
Chad Brown, Esq., colonel, of the second regiment of mi-
litia, in the county of Providence.
Charles Dyer, Esq., colonel, of the second regiment of mi-
litia, in the county of Kings.
Archibald Kasson, Esq., colonel, of the second regiment of
militia, in the county of Kent,
William West. Esq., colonel, of the third regiment of mili-
tia, in the county of Providence.
Simon Whipple, Esq., lieutenant colonel, of the first regi-
ment of militia, in the county of Providence.
Jesse Maxson, Esq., lieutenant colonel, of the first regi-
ment of militia, in the county of Kings.
Peter Church, Esq., lieutenant colonel, of the regiment of
militia, in the county of Bristol.
Thomas Tillinghast, Esq., lieutenant colonel of the first
regiment of militia, in the county of Kent,
Pardon Gray, Esq., lieutenant colonel, of the second regi-
ment of militia, in the county of Newport.
John Angell, Esq., lieutenant colonel, of the second regi-
ment of militia, in the county of Providence.
Thomas Potter, Jr., Esq., lieutenant colonel, of the second
regiment of militia, in the county of Kings.
Thomas Gorton, Esq., lieutenant colonel, of the second
regiment of militia, in the county of Kent.
1778.] AND PROVIDENCE PLANTATIONS. 391
Richard Fenner, Jr., Esq., major, of the first regiment of
militia, in the county of Providence.
Thomas Sheffield, major, of the first regiment of militia,
in the county of Kings.
Peleg Heath, Esq., major, of the regiment in the county
of Bristol.
Job Pearce, Esq., major, of the first regiment of militia, in
the county of Kent.
Nathaniel Church, Esq., major, of the second regiment of
militia, in the county of Newport.
Asa Kimball, Esq., major, of the second regiment of mili-
tia, in the county of Providence.
Jonathan Maxson, Esq., major, of the second regiment of
militia, in the county of Kings.
Isaac Johnston, Esq., major, of the second regiment of
militia, in the county of Kent.
Officers to Command the several Trained Bands, or Companies of
Militia, ivithin the State.
Providence. First company — Abimelech Riggs, captain ;
Hezekiah Dayton, lieutenant ; Joseph Allen, ensign.
Second company — Lewis Peck, captain ; Samuel Hamlin,
lieutenant ; Walker Harding, ensign.
Third company — Charles Keene, captain ; Benjamin Com-
stock, lieutenant ; Seth Wheaton, ensign.
Fourth company — Jas. Snow, captain ; Zepheniah Brown,
lieutenant ; Joseph Fuller, ensign.
Warwick. First company — Job Randall, captain ; James
Arnold, 3d, lieutenant ; James Carder, ensign.
Second company — Squire Miller, captain ; James Jerauld,
lieutenant; John Stafford, ensign.
Third company — Thomas Rice, son of Thomas, captain ;
Anthony Holden, Jr., lieutenant ; Stukely Stafford, ensign.
Westerly. First company — Joshua Pendleton, captain;
Ephraim Pendleton, lieutenant ; Simeon Pendleton, ensign,
.392 RECORDS OF THE STATE OF RHODE ISLAND [MAY,
Second company — John Gavitt, captain ; Stephen Saun-
ders, lieutenant ; William Bliven, ensign.
Third company — George Stillman, captain ; Peleg Saun-
ders, lieutenant ; Asa Maxson, ensign.
North Kingstown. First company — Peter Wright, cap-
tain ; Edward Dyer, lieutenant ; Samuel Dyer, ensign.
Second company — James Albro, captain • James Eldred,
lieutenant ; Lawrence Pierce, ensign.
Third company — John Brown, captain ; Joshua Vaughan,
lieutenant ; Beriah Waite, ensign.
South Kingstown. First company — Timothy Lock, cap-
tain ; Daniel Tefft, lieutenant ; William Stedman, ensign.
Second company — Stephen Babcock, captain ; Joseph
Carpenter, lieutenant ; John Weeden, ensign.
East Greenwich. First company — William Hall, captain ;
William Sweet, Jr., lieutenant ; David Andrews, ensign.
Second company — Allen Johnston, captain ; Michael Spen-
cer, lieutenant ; George Bailey, ensign.
Jamestown. Edward Carr, Jr., captain; John Weeden (son
of Daniel Weeden, Jr.), lieutenant; Samuel Carr, ensign.
Smithfield. First company — Samuel Day, captain ; Rich-
ard Sayles, Jr., lieutenant ; William Gully, ensign.
Second company — Ebenezer Trask, captain ; Simeon Bal-
lou, lieutenant ; David Aldrich, ensign.
Third company — Joseph Sprague, captain ; Daniel Mow-
ry, 4th, lieutenant ; Benjamin Sheldon, ensign.
Scituate. First company — Jonathan Knight, captain ;
Angell Sweet, lieutenant ; David Wright, ensign.
Second company — Simeon Herrenden, captain; George
Dorrance, lieutenant ; James Tyler, ensign.
Third company — Coomer Smith, captain ; Jabel Angell,
lieutenant ; Samuel Angell, ensign.
Fourth company — Isaac Hopkins, captain; Ozial Smith,
lieutenant ; William Walker, ensign.
Fifth company — Samuel Wilbour, captain ; Thos. Field?
lieutenant ; William Potter, ensign,
1778.] AND PROVIDENCE PLANTATIONS. 393
Sixth company — William Howard, captain; James Welles,
lieutenant ; Samuel Perkins, ensign.
Glocester. First company — Stephen Olney, captain;
Benjamin Burlingame, lieutenant ; Stephen Irons, ensign.
Second company — Samuel Mayes, captain ; Daniel Math-
ewson, lieutenant ; James Colwell, ensign.
Third company — Abraham Winsor, captain ; Richard
Lewis, lieutenant ; Nathaniel Wade, ensign.
Fourth company — Stephen Winsor, captain ; Isaac Ross,
lieutenant ; Israel Smith, ensign.
Charlestown. First company — John Parks, captain ; Gid-
eon Hoxsie, Jr., lieutenant ; Christopher Babcock, ensign.
Second company — Amos Greene, captain ; Beriah Lewis,
lieutenant; Daniel Stafford, ensign.
West Greenwich. First company — Joseph Hopkins, cap-
tain ; Benjamin Weaver, lieutenant ; William Case, ensign.
Second company — Benj. Gorton, captain ; Caleb Greene,
lieutenant ; Joseph Weaver, ensign.
Third company — Joseph Draper, captain ; Joseph James,
lieutenant ; Judiah Aylesworth, Jr., ensign.
Coventry. First company — Benedict Colvin, captain ;
John Colvin, lieutenant ; William Potter, ensign.
Second company — William Roy, captain ; William Bur-
lingame, lieutenant ; Elijah Weaver, ensign.
Third company — L'angford Weaver, captain ; Samuel
Greene, Jr., lieutenant ; John Bucklin, ensign.
Fourth company — Asa Bennett, captain ; Joseph Kinyon,
lieutenant ; Thomas Parker, Jr., ensign.
Exeter. First company — Jonathan Bates, Jr., captain;
Daniel Tillinghast, lieutenant ; John Congdon, Jr., ensign.
Bristol company — William Throop, captain ; Joseph Rey-
nolds, Jr., lieutenant ; Jonathan Diamond, ensign.
Tiverton. First company — Isaac Cooke, captain ; Philip
Corey, lieutenant ; Philip Manchester, ensign.
Little Compton. First company — Ephraim Simmons,
captain ; Samuel Cook, lieutenant ; William Simmons,
ensign.
VOL. Till, 50
394 RECORDS OF THE STATE OF RHODE ISLAND [MAY,
Second company — George Simmons, captain ; John Da-
vis, lieutenant ; Stephen Pierce, ensign.
Cumberland. First company — Enoch Weatherhead, cap-
tain ; Benj. Wilkinson, lieutenant ; Joseph Eazee, ensign.
Second company — Amos Whipple, captain ; , Absalom
Ballou, lieutenant ; William Emmerson, ensign.
Richmond. First company — Richard Bailey, Jr., captain ;
John Woodmansie, lieutenant ; Joshua Webb, ensign.
Second company — John Clarke, captain ; Jeremiah Tefft,
lieutenant ; Pardon Tefft, ensign.
Cranston. First company — Anthony Potter, captain ;
Josiah Potter, lieutenant ; Thomas Congdon, ensign.
Second company — Frederick Williams, captain ; Nathaniel
Carpenter, lieutenant ; John Harris, ensign.
Third company — William Field, captain ; Joseph Potter,
lieutenant ; Nehemiah Burlingame, ensign.
Hopkinton. First company — Henry Wells, captain ; Syl-
vanus Maxson, lieutenant ; Thomas Wells, Jr., ensign.
Second company — George Thurston, Jr., captain ; Randall
Wells, lieutenant ; Joseph Thurston, ensign.
Third company — Jesse Burclick, captain ; Uriah Crandall,
lieutenant ; Lebbeus Cotterel, ensign.
Johnston. First company — Daniel Sprague, captain ;
Robert Potter, lieutenant ; Isaac Arnold, ensign.
Second company — Emor Olney, captain ; Daniel Angell,
lieutenant ; Laban Waterman, ensign.
North Providence company — Eleazer Jenckes, captain ;
Samuel Olney, lieutenant ; Esek Olney, ensign.
Barrington company — Viall Allen, captain ; Daniel Kin-
nicut, lieutenant ; James Martin, ensign.
It is voted and resolved, that the militia, in the town of
Cumberland, and the third company of militia, in the town
of Cranston, be, and they are hereby, annexed to the first
regiment of militia, in the county of Providence.
It is voted and resolved, that Henry Ward, Theodore
Foster and Rowse J. Helme, Esqs., be, and they are hereby,
1778.] * AND PROVIDENCE PLANTATIONS. 395
appointed a committee, to draft a bill, agreeably to a reso-
lution of Congress, of the 23d of April last ; and that they
make report, as soon as may be.
In Council was read the return of the officers chosen to
command the independent company of Kingstown Reds,
in the county of Kings, which are as follows, viz. :
John Waite, captain ; Nathan Taylor, first lieutenant ;
Samuel Eldrecl, second lieutenant ; Gardner Tefft, ensign.
Which being duly considered, —
It is voted and resolved, that the said officers be, and
hereby are, approved.
In Council was read the return of the officers chosen to
command the company of Kentish Guards, which are as
follows, to wit :
Richard Fry, Esq. colonel ; William Arnold, Esq., lieuten-
ant colonel ; Griffin Greene, Esq., major ; Charles Greene,
captain.
Which being duly considered, —
It is voted and resolved, that the said officers be, and
hereby are, approved.
The return of the officers chosen to Command the compa-
ny of Smithfield and Cumberland Rangers, was read in
Council, and is as follows, to wit :
George Peck, captain ; Edward Thompson, first lieu-
tenant; Levi Brown, second lieutenant; William Bowen,
ensign.
Which being duly considered, —
It is voted and resolved, that the said officers be, and they
are hereby, approved.
It is voted and resolved, that the second and third com-
panies of militia of the town of Exeter be annexed to, and
do duty under the command of the commissioned officers of
the first company of militia, of said town, until officers shall
be appointed by this Assembly, for the second and third
companies.
Whereas, the following form of a commission, to be issued
396 RECORDS OF THE STATE OF RHODE ISLAND [MaY,
to the delegates appointed to represent this state in Con-
gress, was laid before this Assembly, to wit :
Form of Commission to Delegates in Congress.
By His Excellency "William Greene, Esq., Governor, Captain-General, and Com-
mander-in-Chief, of and over the state of Rhode Island and Providence Plan-
tations-
To — , Esq., Greeting.
Whereas, by the free vote of the freemen of the said state, on the first Wednesday
in May inst., you, the said — ■ , was elected a delegate, to represent the said
state, for one year, in the general Congress of delegates from the thirteen United
States of America, now sitting at Yorktown, in the state of Pennsylvania, or wherever
the same may sit :
I do therefore, in the name of the Governor and Company of the said state, hereby
authorize, empower and commissionate you, the said , in conjunction
with the other delegates that are, or may be, elected delegates of the said state, or sep-
arately and alone, in case of the sickness or necessary absence of the other delegates of
said state, to represent the said state in the said general Congress ; and in behalf there-
of, to join with the delegates from the other states, or major part of them, in all such
measures as shall be thought best for defending and promoting the welfare of the said
United States, agreeably to the instructions given, or that may be given, you by the
General Assembly. This commission, so far as it empowers you to act separately and
alone, is to continue good in that respect, unless it should be provided by the articles
of confederation that no state shall be represented by less than two delegates ; in which
case, any two of the said delegates, if no more than three are present ; or otherwise,
the major part of those present, are empowered to execute this commission, which is
also to be understood to continue in force until you shall be superseded, and another
delegate shall appear to take your place.
Given under my hand, and the seal of the said state, at Providence, this ■
day of — "*= ■ , in the year of our Lord one thousand seven hundred and
seventy-eight.
By His Excellency's command.
Whieh being duly considered, —
It is voted and resolved, that the aforesaid draught be,
and the same is hereby, approved ; and that His Excellency
the Governor be requested to issue a commission, under the
public seal of the state, to each of the delegates appointed
to represent this state in the Most Honorable the Congress
of the thirteen United States of America, agreeably to the
aforementioned form ; and that the same be countersigned
by the secretary.
1778.] AND PROVIDENCE PLANTATIONS. 397
It is voted and resolved, that John Updike, Stephen Pot-
ter and Christopher Ellery, Esqs., and Mr. Robert Stevens,
Jr., be a committee to examine the clothing returned into
the deputy agent-clothiers store, in this state, by John
Cooke, Esq. ; and that they make report as soon as may
be.
This Assembly, taking into consideration the memorial
of Major General Sullivan of this day, to the General As-
sembly,—
Do vote and resolve, that John Reynolds, Esq., having, in
pursuance of a resolve of Congress, of the 15th of November
last, and at the request of James Mease, Esq., agent-clothier
general, by his letter of the 21st of the same month, been
appointed deputy agent-clothier general within this state,
is therefore to be considered to all intents as a Continen-
tal officer; and the clothing in his store as Continental
clothing.
And it is farther voted and resolved, that it be recom-
mended to the said John Reynolds to supply all Continental
officers with clothing out of his store, agreeably to the reso-
lution of Congress of the 22d of November last, upon their
producing to him an order therefor, from the Honorable
Major General Sullivan.
It is voted and resolved, that Miss Susannah Lyon be, and
she is hereby, permitted to go upon Rhode Island, in the
first cartel vessel ; and that she have liberty to carry on
with her, her wearing apparel ; she obtaining the approba-
tion of General Sullivan, for that purpose.
It is voted and resolved, that the delegates of this state
be, and they or either of them are hereby, empowered to
bring forward the vouchers of this state's accounts against
the Continent, as soon as they can do it with convenience ;
unless it should appear to them necessary to detain the said
vouchers at Yorktown.
It is voted and resolved, that Thomas Cranston, now un-
der confinement by order of the council of war, be per-
mitted, with the consent of the Honorable Major General
398 RECORDS OF THE STATE OF RHODE ISLAND [Ma\*,
Sullivan, to remove from Mr. John Smith's, in Johnston, to
his son Thomas Cranston's, in North Kingstown, there to
continue within the limits of his said son's farm, until the
further orders of this Assembly, or the council of war ; he
giving bond, with the said Thomas Cranston, Jr., and Ed-
ward Haszard, as sureties, in the sum of £2,000, lawful
money, that he will continue a true prisoner within the said
limits, until further order, as aforesaid.
Whereas, William Bentley, Henry Oman, John Harwood,
John Newton, William Pitman and Richard Thomas, pre-
ferred a petition, and represented unto this Assembly, that,
having been great sufferers by the enemy, and having been
driven off from their habitations in Newport, they have now
fixed up a boat, in order to catch fish at Point Judith ; and
thereupon they prayed this Assembly to grant them a com^
mission, to make reprisals upon any of the enemy's shipping
that may fall in their way, as they propose to equip them-
selves with arms for their defence ; and further prayed this
Assembly to supply them with arms sufficient for the said
purpose, they giving therefor, security ; and the premises
being duly considered, —
It is voted and resolved, that His Excellency the Gov-
ernor be requested to issue a commission of letters of
marque and reprisal, to William Bentley, one of the peti-
tioners ; and that Col. Daniel Tillinghast supply the peti-
tioners with six good muskets, they giving security to ac-
count for the same, when called for.
It is voted and resolved, that John Nichols be, and he is
hereby, permitted to subscribe the test, ordered to be sub-
scribed by the inhabitants of this state.
Whereas, by a report of the committee appointed to ex-
amine the clothing returned into the clothier's store, by
John Cooke, Esq., thirty-two coats, seventy-four white shirts,
and four check shirts, being part thereof, are unfit for ser-
vice,—
It is therefore voted and resolved, that the said John
Cooke be required to appear before this Assembly, at the
1778.] AND PROVIDENCE PLANTATIONS. 399
next session thereof, to render an account of his conduct in
purchasing the same ; and that the said clothing be not
disposed of until the further orders of this Assembly.
His Excellency Nicholas Cooke, Esq., late Governor, and
His Honor William Bradford, Esq., late Deputy Governor of
this state, having entered upon their said offices at a time
of great public danger, difficulty and distress, and discharged
the duties of their stations with patriotic zeal, firmness and
intrepidity, —
It is voted and resolved, that the thanks of this Assembly
be given them in behalf of this state, for their aforesaid ser-
vices ; and that the secretary deliver a copy hereof, to each
of them.
Whereas, by an act of this Assembly, negro, mulatto and
Indian slaves, belonging to the inhabitants of this state, are
permitted to enlist into the Continental battalions, ordered
to be raised by this state, and are thereupon forever manu-
mitted and discharged from the service of their masters ;
and whereas, it is necessary, for answering the purposes
intended by the said act, that the same -should be tempo-
rary,—
It is therefore voted and resolved, that no negro, mulatto
and Indian slave, be permitted to enlist into said battalions,
from and after the 10th day of June next; and that the
said act then expire, and be no longer in force ; any thing
therein to the contrary, notwithstanding.
This Assembh* having ordered a brigade to be raised, to
serve until the 16th of March next, and allowed the soldiers
who shall enlist therein, bounty and clothing, as specified in
the act for raising the same ; and as the said brigade is not
full-
It is voted and resolved, that all such persons as shall
enlist into the said brigade, on or before the 16th of June
next, shall be entitled to the whole bounties allowed by the
said act.
That all such as shall enlist into the said brigade after
that time, shall be held to serve twelve months, from the
400 RECORDS OF THE STATE OF RHODE ISLAND [MAY,
time of their enlistment ; and that the secretary transmit a
copy of this resolution to the colonel of each regiment in
the said brigade, to be communicated to the several com-
missioned officers therein.
It is voted and resolved, that John Reynolds, Esq., agent-
clothier in this state, be empowered to draw the sum of
£16,250, lawful money, out of the general treasury; £4,000?
part thereof, immediately, and the remainder when the
money from Congress shall be received, for discharging such
debts as have been contracted by him in his office ; and to
enable him to obtain such further supplies of clothing and
blankets, as may be necessary for the use of the officers in
the Continental battalions raised by this state, and the sol-
diers in the service of this state.
Whereas, the prize ships Syren and Sisters ; and the prize
schooner Two Mates, together with their guns, stores, car-
goes and appurtenances, which were captured in this state,
have been mostly sold by the captors, who are not empow-
ered by law to call special courts, in order to collect from
the purchasers the moneys due on the sales of the said
prizes ; and the said moneys remain in the hands of said
purchasers and the captors, and the costs and charges of the
trial and condemnation of the said prizes, and other ex-
penses thereof, remain unpaid ; and as no distribution can
be made among the said captors until said moneys be col-
lected,—
Be it therefore enacted by this General Assembly, and
by the authority thereof it is enacted, that all the accounts
of the sales of the said prizes, or authentic copies of said ac-
counts, be immediately delivered to the sheriff of the county
of Kings, by the person or persons who are possessed of the
same.
That the said sheriff be, and he is hereby, fully empow-
ered, ordered and directed, immediately to demand and re-
ceive from each of said purchasers all money due by his said
account
That in case any of said purchasers shall refuse payment,
1778.] AND PROVIDENCE PLANTATIONS. 401
the said sheriff shall immediately call a special court for the
recovery of said money, in the same manner as by law he
might have done, in case the said prizes, or any part there-
of, had been sold by him at public vendue.
That as soon as the said sheriff shall have collected the
said moneys, he shall deduct and pay out of the same, to
the clerk of the maritime court, in this state, the amount of
the costs and charges of the trial and condemnation of said
prizes ; and that said amount be distributed by said clerk to
the officers of said court, and others, to whom it belongs.
That the said sheriff also deduct and pay out of said
moneys to the general treasurer, for the use of this state, the
sum of £470 8s. $d., being the amount of expenses paid by
this state for the prisoners taken in the said ship Syren ; and
that after said deductions, and all other incidental charges,
duly ascertained, the said sheriff immediately distribute and
pay all the remainder of said moneys to the said captors'
agents, agreeably to the decree of said maritime court.
Provided nevertheless, and it is hereby enacted, that no
one of the aforesaid captors shall receive, or be entitled to,
his share or dividend of said moneys, until he shall have sub-
scribed the act of this state, commonly called the test act.
And it is also hereby further provided and enacted, that
before any one of said captors shall receive his share or
dividend of said moneys, the said agents shall tender, and?
if he be willing to take the same, shall administer to him an
oath, in the following form, to wit :
Form of the Oath.
"You, C. D., as in the presence of the ever living God, do sol-
emnly swear, that you have not, by any ways or means what-
soever, directly or indirectly, by yourself, or by any person or
persons, for, by or under you, taken, secreted, concealed or
embezzled, any article or articles of the goods, effects, or
things of any kind whatsoever, which ever belonged to the
prize ship Syren, or the prize ship Sisters, or the prize
VOL. VIII. 51
402 RECORDS OF THE COLONY OF RHODE ISLAND [MAY
schooner Two Mates, or to the stores, tackle, furniture, car-
go or appurtenances of either of the said vessels, which
were lately taken near the shore of Point Judith ; and that
if you know of any person or persons, who have taken, se-
creted, concealed or embezzled, any of the aforesaid goods
or effects, you will give information to the sheriff of Kings
county, or to the agent or agents of the captors, of all you
know, and of all that you have been informed of, by any
other person or persons, relating to such concealment. So
help you God."
And be it further enacted, that each and every of the
aforesaid captors, who shall refuse to make oath in the form
abovesaid, shall forfeit his whole share or dividend of the
aforesaid moneys ; and the said sheriff shall pay the same
into the general treasury, for the use of this state.
Whereas, Benjamin Davis, town treasurer of the town of
North Kingstown, preferred a petition, and represented un-
to this Assembly, that an execution was issued by the gen-
eral treasurer, for the taxes assessed upon said town in Au-
gust, 1777 ; that thereupon, he was committed to jail, and
came out upon the thirty per cent, act ; and that the col-
lector of taxes for said town, on the 20th of April last,
paid the taxes assessed on the said town, with the in-
terest due thereon, in the treasury, as appears by the cer-
tificate with the said petition presented ; and thereupon,
the said Benjamin Davis prayed that said town may
be discharged from paying the said thirty per cent. ; and
the premises being duly considered, —
It is voted and resolved, that the prayer of the said peti-
tion be, and the same is hereby, granted.
Whereas, Mr. Beriah Brown, Jr., a deputy sheriff of the
county of Kings, in pursuance of an order of the council of
war, of the 28th of April last, took into his possession all
the real and personal estate of James Austin, late of North
Kingstown ; and the said Beriah Brown having made report
of his proceedings to this Assembly, —
1778.] AND PROVIDENCE PLANTATIONS. 403
It is thereupon voted and resolved, that the said Beriah
be empowered and directed to lease the real estate of the
said James Austin at public vendue, to such persons only as
are deemed friendly to the liberties of America, the rent
thereof to be paid in the produce of the same, at the prices as
fixed in the last bill for regulating the prices of labor, &c.
That the said Beriah deliver to the wife of the said
James one cow, two one year old cattle, two barrels of
cider, and the household furniture, being part of the per-
sonal estate of the said James ; and that he sell the re-
mainder of the personal estate of the said James at public
vendue.
Whereas, the committee, to whom was referred the peti-
tion of John Baggs, Jr., who received a wound while in the
service of this state, presented unto this Assembly the fol-
lowing report, to wit :
Report.
We have examined into the circumstances of the case of
the said John Baggs, Jr., and adjudge that he be entitled to
receive half pay from the last day of October, until the last
day of April, and one ration per day during that time.
JONATHAN ARNOLD^ JOHN BROWN.
JOHN SMITH,
And the said report being duly considered, —
It is voted and resolved, that the same be, and hereby
is, accepted.
It is voted and resolved, that the officers of the brigade
ordered to be raised within this state, be allowed twenty
shillings, lawful money, including the eight shillings hereto-
fore allowed, for each man by them hereafter enlisted, and
who shall be mustered in the said brigade.
It is voted and resolved, that the sheriff of the county of
Kent forthwith take into possession, for the use of the state,
all the real and personal estate which did belong to Joseph
Hunt, Jr., of East Greenwich, who hath joined the enemy ;
404 RECORDS OF THE STATE OF RHODE ISLAND [MAY,
and that the said sheriff make report thereof to this Assem-
bly ; or in the recess thereof, to the council of war.
It is further voted and resolved, that the sheriff for the
county of Kings, forthwith take into possession, for the use
of this state, all the real and personal estate which did be-
long to John Underwood, of North Kingstown, who hath
also joined the enemy ; and that the said sheriff lease the
said real estates in the same manner and upon the same
conditions as the real estates in the possession of the state
have heretofore been leased.
It is voted and resolved, that the sheriff for the county
of Kings inquire into the present situation of the estates of
Samuel Gardner and William Robinson, situate in South
Kingstown ; and that he make report to this Assembly as
soon as may be.
It is voted and resolved, that Messrs. Paul Allen, Esek
Esten, Job Comstock, Caleb Harris and Joseph Stanton, Jr.,
be, and they are hereby, appointed a committee to draft a
bill for further regulating hospitals erected for the small
pox within this state ; and that they make report as soon as
may be.
It is voted and resolved, that a vote of the council of
war, of the 18th of April last, directing Capt. Gabriel Allen,
paymaster of Col. Topham's battalion, not to pay any boun-
ties to any persons who may enlist into the said battalion
until they shall have passed muster, be, and the same is
hereby, repealed, so far as respects the payment of
bounties.
Whereas, the agent-clothier in this state, did, some time
since, receive an order from the clothier-general, directing
him to apply for a quantity of clothing belonging to the
Continent, then in the state of the Massachusetts Bay ; and
whereas, on application being made, it was found that the
clothing was before disposed of; and information being re-
ceived that there is a large quantity of various kinds of
clothing lately arrived in Boston, on account of the Conti-
nent, and there being constant and great demands made on
1778.] AND PROVIDENCE PLANTATIONS. 405
the agent-clothier in this state, which he cannot comply
with for want of money, —
It is therefore voted and resolved, that John Reynolds,
Esq., agent-clothier in this state, make immediate applica-
tion to the agent-clothier, or Continental agents in the Mas-
sachusetts Bay, or whoever may be in possession of the said
Continental clothing, that they supply him with a sufficient
quantity of the said clothes and blankets, to answer the
present demands on him, on account of the United States.
It is voted and resolved, that Joseph Clarke, Esq., general
treasurer of this state, be allowed £500, lawful money, in-
cluding his standing salary for his extraordinary services in
his said office the year past ; and that he be empowered to
draw the same out of the general treasury, accordingly.
It is voted and resolved, that John Sayles, Esq., who
is appointed by the town of Smithtield, to furnish the fami-
lies of soldiers in the Continental service, within said town,
with necessaries, be, and he is hereby, empowered to
draw £150, lawful money, out of the general treasury,
for the purpose aforesaid.
It is voted and resolved, that any person within this
state, not having subscribed the test or declaration hereto-
fore prescribed by an act of this Assembly, shall have lib-
erty, on or before the first Monday of September next, to
subscribe the same, before the town council of the town in
which he may reside ; and such person shall thereupon be
entitled to all the privileges, franchises and immunities, as
though he had subscribed the test or declaration in due sea-
son ; and that no person shall be admitted to subscribe the
said test after the expiration of said time, excepting persons
who shall hereafter arrive at the age of twenty-one years,
and officers and soldiers in the army, officers and seamen of
the navy, and seamen who are absent at sea, who are here-
by empowered, after the expiration thereof, to subscribe the
same before the town council of the town in which they
may reside.
Provided nevertheless, that said town councils be, and
406 RECORDS OF THE STATE OF RHODE ISLAND [MAY,
they are hereby, empowered and required to reject any
persons who may not appear to them entitled to the privi-
leges derived from the subscription of said test.
And it is ordered, that this resolve be inserted in the
next Providence Gazette ; and that copies hereof, be trans-
mitted to the several town clerks within this state.
It is voted and resolved, that the superior and inferior
courts for the county of Newport be held at Tiverton, at the
times at which by law they were to be holden in Newport,
until the enemy remove from the island of Rhode Island ;
and that the juries be empanneled at said court in manner
as is before prescribed.
And it is further voted and resolved, that a copy of this
act be published in the next Providence Gazette.
It is voted and resolved, that Mr. Ebenezer Herrington
have leave to improve, for one year, the lot of land lying in
North Kingstown, lately belonging to Thomas Cutter, who
is gone off to the enemy, at Newport.
It is voted and resolved, that the secretary collect the
resolves of Congress, and have them before this Assembly
at their future meetings ; and that he report to this Assem-
bly at the next session all such acts as have passed in con-
sequence of resolves of Congress, since transmitting the
same to Congress was recommended to this state.
Resolved, that the act permitting inoculation within this
state, and all acts made in addition to, and amendment
thereof, be, and the}' are hereby, suspended until the 1st
day of October next.
Provided nevertheless, that permission be, and is hereby,
given for inoculating the soldiers who have or may enlist
into the Continental battalions raising by this state, in the
farm-house belonging to Dr. Joseph Joslyn, in the town of
East Greenwich, about four miles from the compact part
thereof.
Provided also, that the inhabitants of the town of North
Providence may be inoculated ; or if they should take the
small pox in the natural way, that they be removed to an
1778.] AND PROVIDENCE PLANTATIONS. 407
hospital which may be ordered within said town by the town
council thereof; to be under their direction, and under the
rules and regulations as is provided in the aforementioned
acts.
It is further resolved, that if any person shall be guilty
of inoculating any persons, or aiding, assisting, or advising
thereto, within this state, contrary to this resolve, he shall
forfeit and pay a fine of £30, lawful money, for each person
who shall be so inoculated contrary to the tenor hereof, to
be recovered by bill, plaint or information, in any court of
record within this state ; one-half thereof, to and for the use
of the informer, and the remainder for the use of this
state.
And it is ordered, that a copy hereof, be published in the
next Providence Gazette, and sent to each town clerk with-
in this state.
Voted and resolved, that the following accounts be paid
out of the general treasury, viz. :
Bills Ordered lo be Paid.
£ s. d.
George Pierce, for a quantity of beef for the use of the troops stationed at
North Kingstown 20 00 00
Henry Marchant, as a delegate in Congress from Rhode Island 100 00 00
John Reynolds, for two yoke of oxen, two ox yokes, and two chains, for
the transportation of stores to the army 81 09 09
Hezekiah Wilcox, for the freight of a quantity of salt belonging to the
state 8 15 07
Mrs. Abigail Read, for nursing Thomas Thornton, a soldier, sick with the
small pox, and for sundry necessaries provided for him 13 10 00
Dr. James Mason, for his attendance, &c, on the above named Thomas
Thornton 3 12 00
Stephen Hopkins, for his services and expenses as one of the delegates in
Congress from Rhode Island 344 12 07
John Ellis, for boarding James Sutton, a soldier, while sick with a fever, at
his house 7 01 11
Abel Tanner, clerk of the town council of Hopkinton, for provisions for the
soldiers by them raised for the late intended expedition against Rhode
Island, in October last 22 08 09
John Baggs, Jr., for boarding expenses in consequence of a wound received
by him while in the service of the United States 35 08 00
William Bradford, for balance of his account against the state 27 02 06
William Coddington, for his time and expenses in taking an account of the
number of inhabitants in the town of Newport, in the year 1776 2 11 00
408 RECORDS OF THE STATE OF RHODE ISLAND [MAY,
£ s. d.
Capt. Samuel Phillips, for two blankets, and a number of knapsacks by him
provided for the soldiers in his company 4 12 00
Judiah Aylsworth, for his time and expenses in taking an account of the
number of inhabitants in the town of East Greenwich 3 12 00
Peter Phillips, in part payment of money borrowed of him by the state 250 00 00
Walter Channing, paymaster to Col Crary's battalion, authorized to
draw out of the general treasury 600 00 00
Capt. Gabriel Allen, paymaster of Col. Topham's battalion, authorized to
draw out of the general treasury 400 00 00
Capt. Joseph West, paymaster of Col. Elliott's regiment, authorized to
draw out of the general treasury 400 00 00
Caleb Arnold, for his commission for purchasing forty -one pair of stockings
in behalf of the state 2 11 00
William Channing, for his expenses in attending on the General Assembly,
as assistant clerk ... 8 10 00
William Mumford, for his attendance as clerk, on the council of war ; and
for his attendance on the General Assembly at the present session, as
deputy secretary 21 12 00
God save the United States of America.
Proceedings of the General Assembly, held for the State of Rhode
Island and Providence Plantations, at Providence, on Thurs-
day, the 2%th day of May, 1778.
His Excellency William Greene, Governor.
The Hon. Jabez Bo wen, Deputy Governor.
It is voted and resolved, that Caleb Harris, Esq., deliver
one-half ton of pistol powder to Col. Daniel Tillinghast, for
the use of the laboratory within this state.
A letter from His Excellency Governor Trumbull, of the
19th of May inst., to the Governor of this state, having been
laid before this Assembly, and the subject matter thereof,
taken under consideration, —
It is voted and resolved, that the same be referred ; and
that Henry Ward and Rowse J. Helme, Esqs., be a commit-
tee to draft an answer to the said letter, and report the same
as soon as may be.
It is voted and resolved, that a negro man Prince, belong-
1778.] AND PROVIDENCE PLANTATIONS. 409
ing to Messrs. Joseph Brown and Nicholas Power, of Graf-
ton, in the state of Massachusetts Bay, who hath entered
into the regiment under the command of Col. Greene, be
discharged from the said regiment.
That the clothes and bounty advanced the said negro (if
to be had), be delivered up to Col. Greene ; and that said
negro Princ edeliver up all the equipments belonging to the
state, if any he has received.
Resolved, that eight hundred and thirty-nine effective
men be raised by the several towns within this state (ex-
cepting the towns of Newport, Portsmouth, New Shoreham,
Middletown and Jamestown), for filling the battalions and
regiment of artillery raising by this state, on or before the
10th day of June next.
That they be proportioned to the several towns in the
following manner, to wit :
The proportion of each town according to the last tax
assessed upon it by the General Assembly (deducting one-
eighth part of the sum last assessed upon the town of Bris-
tol, and one-sixteenth part of the tax of the town of War-
ren), shall be computed, and then the proportion of each
town, according to the number of fencible men, as appeared
by the last estimate, shall be also computed.
And as a difference will arise in the two numbers, that
the same be fixed by a relative proportion, to be struck be-
tween the number of men to be raised by the tax, and the
number of fencible men, which shall be the numbers to be
raised by each respective town.
It is further resolved, that the men who may be raised by
the said towns, agreeably to this resolve, be allowed the
same bounty and wages as have been allowed to the per-
sons who have heretofore enlisted into said battalions and
regiment ; and that the persons whose names are hereafter
mentioned, be appointed and empowered to receive, out of
the general treasury, such sums of money as are sufficient
for paying said bounty, allowed to each soldier ordered to
be raised by their respective towns, to wit :
vol viii. 52
410 RECORDS OF THE STATE OF RHODE ISLAND [MAY.
Names of Persons appointed by the General Assembly to pay the
Bounty allowed to each Soldier of the respective Towns.
For Providence — James Arnold, Esq., town treasurer.
Warwick — John Warner, Esq.
Westerly — Joshua Babcock, Esq.
North Kingstown — Major Sylvester Gardner.
South Kingstown — Mr. Enoch Haszard.
East Greenwich — Thomas Tillinghast, Esq.
Smithfield — John Sayles, Esq.
Scituate — Timothy Hopkins, Esq.
Glocester — Mr. Caleb Arnold.
Charlestown — Joseph Stanton, Jr., Esq.
West Greenwich — Jucliah Aylsworth, Esq.
Coventry — Mr. David Buckliu.
Exeter — John Chapman, Esq.
Bristol — Nathaniel Fales, Esq.
Tiverton — Pardon Gray, Esq.
Little Compton — Nathaniel Searle, Esq.
Warren — Mr. Shubael Burr.
Cumberland — Mr. John Lapham.
Richmond — Mr. Edward Perry.
Cranston — Mr. Peter Burlingame, 3d.
Hopkinton — Thomas Wells, Esq.
Johnston — Edward Fenner, Esq.
North Providence — Joseph Olney, Esq.
Barriugton — Mr. Samuel Allen.
It is further resolved, that the aforenamed persons de-
liver the money unto the town treasurers of their respective
towns, or unto such persons as the towns shall appoint to
receive the same ; and thereupon the said towns shall be
accountable to the state for the money by them received.
It is further resolved, that each town in this state, which
shall be deficient in raising its proportion of men, as afore-
said, shall pay as a fine, to and for the use of this state,
1778.] AND PROVIDENCE PLANTATIONS. 411
<£30, lawful money, for every soldier they shall be deficient
in, to be recovered by bill, plaint or information, in any
of the courts of record within this state, by the general
treasurer thereof.
It is further resolved, that if any person, enlisted by
either of said towns, shall not pass muster, before the
muster-master, appointed to said battalions and regiment,
the town who shall have enlisted him, shall sustain any loss
which may arise by reason of his enlistment, and furnish
an effective man in the room of the person who shall not be
mustered, as aforesaid.
It is further resolved, that Mr. Nathaniel Mumford appor-
tion the men to be raised, agreeably to this resolve.
And it is ordered, that the secretary transmit copies of
this act, and also of the said apportionment, to the several
town clerks in this state, to which the men so to be enlisted
are to be proportioned, on or before Monday next.
The following is the apportionment of the men to the sev-
eral towns, agreeably to the aforegoing resolve :
Proportion of Men to be furnished for the Army by the several
Towns.
Proportion. Proportion.
Providence
80
Bristol, -
18
Warwick
52
Tiverton,
Westerly
31
Little Compton,
30
North Kingstown, -
47
Warren,
14
South Kingstown,
69
Cumberland,
28
East Greenwich,
32
Richmond, -
22
Smithfield,
51
Cranston,
35
Scituate,
56
Hopkinton, -
29
Glocester,
46
Johnston,
21
Charlestown,
27
North Providence,
14
West Greenwich,
25
Barrington,
10
Coventry, -
34
Exeter,
31
839
412 RECORDS OF THE STATE OF RHODE ISLAND [MAY,
Whereas, this Assembly hath passed a resolve for filling
up the battalions and regiment of artillery, raising by this
state, for the defence of this and the other of the United
States, by the 10th day of June next ; and whereas,a suffi-
cient number of arms cannot be procured by this state,
for equipping the men who may be enlisted into the said
battalions and regiment, within the time limited, —
It is voted and resolved, that Major General Sullivan be,
and he is hereby, requested to procure such a number of
arms, belonging to the United States, as shall be sufficient
for equipping the men ordered to be raised for the purpose
aforesaid.
It is voted and resolved, that Messrs. Enoch Haszard
and Rowse J. Helme be, and they are hereby, appointed a
committee, to receive of Mr. Gordon Tenant, on the Point
Farm, the wool due for the rent of the same ; and that
they remove it to a place of safety, until the further or-
ders of this Assembly.
Whereas, it appears, by a certificate under the hand of
Mr. David Brown, duly and regularly attested, that he, to-
gether with Joshua Lawton, between the 15th day of No-
vember, and the 10th day of December, A. D. 1776, manu-
factured and made, out of the sea-water, at the salt-works,
in Barrington, in this state, eighty bushels of good common
salt ; which being duly considered, —
It is voted and resolved, that the bounty allowed by law
upon the salt above certified to have been manufactured in
this state, at the time it was manufactured, be paid to Mr.
John Updike, out of the general treasury, for the above
named David Brown.
It is voted and resolved, that the sheriff for the coun-
ty of Bristol, or his deputy, forthwith take possession, in
behalf of this state, of the real and personal estate, in the
county of Bristol, belonging to Barnard Miller (who has
joined the enemy on the island of Rhode Island), and make
report thereof, to this Assembly.
That in the mean time Job Miller, son to the said Bar-
1778.] AND PROVIDENCE PLANTATIONS. 413
nard, be permitted to improve the said estate ; and that he
account for the rents thereof, and for the said personal es-
tate, to this Assembly.
Whereas, His Excellency the Governor, by the advice of
such of the members of the upper and lower houses of As-
sembly, as could conveniently be consulted, hath ordered
into actual duty one-sixth part of the militia, independent
and alarm companies, within this state, for the defence
thereof, to do duty for the space of fifteen days, —
It is voted and resolved, that the conduct of His Excel-
lency therein, be approved of; and that the said one-sixth
part of the militia, independent and alarm companies, con-
tinue in service for the space of time for which they have
been called to do service, as aforesaid.
Provided, that nothing herein contained shall extend to
the town of Little Compton, but that the one-half part of
the militia and alarm companies of the said town, continue
to do duty, agreeably to a resolution of this Assembly, of
the 6th of December last; excepting that the commanding
officer of the said companies be appointed by one of the
field officers of the second regiment of militia, in the county
of Newport ; any thing in the said resolution to the contra-
ry hereof, notwithstanding.
And provided also, that this resolve shall not extend to
the town of Barrins-ton.
Resolved, that a committee be appointed, consisting of
one person from each of the towns within this state, to
inquire into the number of guns, bayonets and cartouch
boxes, which have been purchased in behalf of this
state, within their respective towns, agreeably to a former
resolution of this Assembly ; the number of said guns now
remaining in said towns, and if any are missing, to whom
they were delivered ; who were appointed to purchase the
same, and whether they have accounted for the money by
them received for the purpose aforesaid.
It is voted and resolved, that Col. Daniel Tillinghast im-
mediately have the tin in his possession made up into cart-
414 RECORDS OF TILE STATE OF RHODE ISLAND [May,
ridge boxes, and have the same painted and ready for use
as soon as may be.
It is further resolved, that the following persons be, and
they are hereby, appointed a committee for the purpose
aforesaid, to wit :
Names of the Committee appointed for the above named purposes,
For Providence — Capt. Paul Allen.
" Warwick — Thomas Holden, Esq.
" Westerly — Mr. David Maxson.
" North Kingstown — Mr. Peter Wright.
" South Kingstown — Rowse J. Helme, Esq.
u East Greenwich — Job Comstock, Esq.
" Smithfield — Mr. Peleg Arnold.
" Scituate— Job Randall, Esq.
u Glocester — Major Asa Kimball.
" Charlestown — Mr. Jonathan Haszard.
" West Greenwich — Mr. George Dyer.
" Coventry — Mr. Isaac Johnston.
" Exeter — John Chapman, Esq.
" Bristol — Mr. John Howland, Jr.
" Tiverton — Pardon Gray, Esq.
"' Little Compton — Mr. Adam Simmons.
" Warren — William Turner Miller, Esq.
" Cumberland — James Lovett, Esq.
" Richmond — Mr. Jonathan Maxson.
" Cranston — Christopher Lippitt, Esq.
" Hopkinton — Thomas Wells, Esq.
" Johnston — Andrew Harris, Esq.
" North Providence — Hope Angell, Esq.
" Barrington — Josiah Humphrey, Esq.
And that they make report of their proceedings to this
Assembly at the next session.
And it is further resolved, that a copy hereof be immedi-
ately transmitted to each of the aforesaid persons.
1778.] AND PROVIDENCE PLANTATIONS. 415
Resolved, that all persons who are by law obliged to
equip themselves with a good fire-arm, bayonet and car-
touch box ; and who shall not, by report of the town council
of the town to which they belong, be reported to said town
incapable of providing themselves as aforesaid, do provide
themselves therewith by the first day of July next, agreea-
bly to law ; or with a rifle gun and sword in lieu thereof,
upon the penalty of £9, lawful money, for a gun, and £1
10s., for a cartouch box and belt.
That each captain shall make a return of all such persons
as shall be delinquent within his district, to his colonel or
commanding officer ; who is hereby directed to make report
thereof to the town treasurer of the town where such delin-
quent resides ; and the said town treasurer is directed im-
mediately to issue his warrant of distress to the sheriff or
deputy of the county within wmich the delinquent resides,
for the fines which may be due, agreeably to this resolve ;
and that the same be lodged in the town treasury of the
town within which such delinquent resides, to be accounted
for, when required, to this Assembly.
Provided, that nothing herein contained, shall extend to
any person who shall produce a certificate to his colonel,
that his gun has been taken from him for public service,
and not accounted for, since the commencement of the
present Avar ; and that report be also made to this As-
sembly.
It is further resolved, that a copy hereof, be forthwith
transmitted to each of the colonels of regiments, and
captains of the militia and alarm companies, within this
.state.
It is voted and resolved, that Solomon Barrows be, and
he is hereby, appointed ensign of the first compan}' of mili-
tia in the town of Smithfield, in the room of William Gul-
ley, who declines.
That Thomas Easterbrooks be first lieutenant of the com-
pany of militia, in the town of Warren, in the room of
Smith Bowen, who is hereby dismissed.
416 RECORDS OF THE STATE OF RHODE ISLAND [MAY,
That Gideon Harris be ensign of the company of militia
in the town of Scituate, commanded by Capt. Coomer
Smith, in the room of Samuel Angell, who declines.
That Thomas Congdon be lieutenant of the first company
of militia in the town of Cranston, in the room of Josias
Potter, who has removed out of the district of the said first
company.
And that Moses Warner be ensign in the said company
last mentioned, in the room of said Thomas Congdon, who
is promoted.
Whereas, a number of the inhabitants of Bristol preferred
a petition, and represented unto this Assembly, that in the
late excursion of the enemy from Newport, through that
town, they in a most savage manner burnt and destroyed
their dwelling houses, furniture, clothing, &c.
That they are become beggars, and live upon the charity
of their friends and neighbors ; and thereupon prayed this
Assembly to take their distressed circumstances into con-
sideration, and grant them some relief; and the premises
being duly considered, —
It is voted and resolved, that Nathaniel Fales, Esq., be,
and he is hereby, empowered to draw £330, lawful money,
out of the general treasury ; and that he deliver the same
to the town council of the town of Bristol, to be by them
distributed to the petitioners, and the other sufferers in the
late excursion of the enemy, according to their real wants
and necessities.
It is voted and resolved, that the draft of a letter to
Governor Trumbull, presented unto this Assembly by the
committee appointed for that purpose be, and the same is
hereby, approved of; and that a fair copy thereof, signed
by His Excellency the Governor, in behalf of this Assembly,
be transmitted to His Excellency Governor Trumbull.
Resolved, that it be recommended to the Hon. Major
General Sullivan, to take up all persons who are suspected
or known to be unfriendly to this state, or to the United
States, in general, that he shall think proper, and proceed
1778.] AND PROVIDENCE PLANTATIONS. 417
against them according to the known practice in such cases
in the army under the immediate command of His Excel-
lency General Washington.
It is further resolved, that in case of an alarm, Major
General Sullivan, or the commander of the troops within
this state, for the time being, be empowered, with the ad-
vice and concurrence of His Excellency the Governor, if
present, or in his absence, of His Honor the Deputy Gov-
ernor, to call forth the militia, alarm and independent com-
panies, or any part thereof, to do duty, which they shall be
held to do, within this state only, unless in cases of immi-
nent danger, when they may be marched to any place with-
in his command.
And that when any draught shall be made, in pursuance
of an act of the General Assembly, the proper officer shall
make immediate and exact returns thereof to the com-
mander for the time being, as aforesaid.
It is further resolved, that every officer and soldier who
shall neglect or refuse to do his duty when so called, and
every person who shall be so draughted, and shall not ap-
pear, or procure an effective man in his room, shall be liable
to be called to account, and punished for disobedience of or-
ders, or refusal or neglect of duty, in the same manner as
officers and soldiers in actual service may be ; excepting
persons of tender consciences, for whom the town councils
of the respective towns shall provide effective men, in man-
ner as directed by an act passed in April, A. D. 1777, in ad-
dition to the act for relief of persons of tender consciences.
It is further resolved, that this act shall continue in force
until the meeting of this Assembly at the next session, and
no longer ; and that copies of it be immediately delivered
to Major General Sullivan, and to the several commanding
officers of the regiments of militia, alarm and independent
companies, within this state.
Whereas, great inconveniences arise from an order of
the council of war, made the 21st day of March last,
directing —
vol. viii. 53
418 RECORDS OF THE STATE OF RHODE ISLAND [MAY,
" That the colonels of each regiment, which did belong to
the fifteen months' brigade, within this state, lodge with
John Reynolds, Esq., agent-clothier, an exact list of the
names of the several men lately belonging to their respec-
tive regiments, who have any clothing due to them from
the state, with an account of each particular garment that is
respectively due to them ; and that the said clothier, upon
any person named in said list, bringing unto him a certifi-
cate from the colonel, what clothing is due from this state
to such person, that the said agent-clothier deliver the same
unto such person, or pay the value of such clothing in
money, taking a receipt therefor."
For remedy whereof, —
It is voted and resolved, that, in future, upon receipt of
the return from each respective colonel of the said battal-
ions, by the agent-clothier, of the names of those persons, in
their late regiments, to whom clothing is due, and specify-
ing particularly the several articles so due to each, that he
deliver to the said colonels so much clothing as shall be due,
or pay for the same, or any part thereof, in money ; and
that the said colonel deliver out the same to the several
persons to whom it shall be due ; or in lieu thereof, pay the
allowed prices therefor, taking receipts from each person for
what shall be delivered or paid ; which receipts, being re-
turned to the agentrclothier, shall cancel and discharge
their respective receipts, given to him for such clothing or
money.
An Act for calling in and sinking all the outstanding bills
of credit emitted by this state.
[See printed Schedule for the act,]
In Council was read the return of the officers chosen to
command the Glocester Light Infantry Company, which are
as follows, to wit :
Timothy Wilmarth, Jr., captain; Martin Smith, first lieuten-
1778.] AND PROVIDENCE PLANTATIONS. 419
ant ; Caleb Sheldon, second lieutenant ; Ezekiel Smith,
ensign.
Which being duly considered, —
It is voted and resolved, that the said officers be, and
they are hereby, approved.
It is voted and resolved, that John Reynolds, Esq.,
agent-clothier in this state, deliver to the officers of the
brigade, ordered to be raised within this state, and to do
duty for twelve months, from the 16th clay of March last,
such necessary articles of clothing, and at such prices, as are
specified in a resolve of Congress of the 2 2d day of No-
vember last, upon their producing a certificate from Gen.
Sullivan, of the proportion to be furnished them respective
ly, agreeably to said resolve.
An Act for the better regulating the Council of War.
Whereas, this General Assembly did, on the loth day of
December, A. D. 1776, constitute a council of war, and did,
in and by said act, delegate unto said council the authority
and powers in said act mentioned ; and whereas, heretofore
the state hath not been equally represented in said council ;
in order therefore, for the better and more equal represen-
tation of the state at large, —
Be it enacted by this General Assembly, and by the au-
thority thereof it is hereby enacted, that the said council
of war shall consist of twenty-one members ; whereof, three
shall be for the county of Newport ; six for the county of
Providence ; six for the county of Kings ; three for the
county of Bristol, and three for the county of Kent ; seven
of whom, shall constitute a quorum.
That said council, composed of the members from the dif-
ferent counties as aforesaid, convene in the recess of the
General Assembly, as often as His Excellency the Gov-
ernor, or in his absence, His Honor the Deputy Governor
shall think it necessary, for the good purposes for which
said council was instituted.
And be it further enacted by the authority aforesaid, that
420 RECORDS OF THE STATE OF RHODE ISLAND [MAY,
unless there is a member from four of said counties, said
council shall not be deemed clothed with sufficient powers
to make any resolve whatever.
And be it further enacted by the authority aforesaid, that
not more than three members from any county shall sit at
one time, to do the ordinary business of said council, but
may be convened upon extraordinary occasions.
And be it further enacted by the authority aforesaid, that
the members appointed and constituted to compose said
council, shall be first convened by order of the Governor ;
and that they then appoint when they shall next con-
vene, in order to do the ordinary business of said council,
and publish the same in the Providence Gazette, and also
the times when and where they shall adjourn ; and that
there be allowed and paid out of the general treasury, to
each and every member, the sum of twelve shillings per
day, for each and every day they shall convene themselves
agreeably to this act, together with all their reasonable ex-
penses ; and there shall be further allowed unto each of the
members, living out of the county where said council shall
be called, one day extra, for their times in convening and
returning home.
And be it further enacted by the authority aforesaid,
that the members from each county shall attend in rota-
tion, unless otherwise agreed to by the members from the
said county.
And be it further enacted by the authority aforesaid, that
no member of the General Assembly, but those who are ap-
pointed of the council of war, shall be entitled to any vote
in said council.
Resolved, that the act permitting inoculation within this
state, and all acts made in addition to, and amendment
thereof, be, and they are hereby, suspended until the 1st
day of October next.
Provided nevertheless, that permission be, and is hereby,
given for inoculating the soldiers who have or may enlist
into the Continental battalions raising by this state, in
1778.] AND PROVIDENCE PLANTATIONS 421
the farm-house belonging to Dr. Joseph Joslyn, in the
town of East Greenwich, about four miles from the compact
part thereof.
Provided also, that the inhabitants of the town of North
Providence may be inoculated ; or, if they should take the
small pox in the natural way, that they may be removed to
a hospital, which may be ordered within said town, by the
town council thereof, to be under their direction, and under
the rules and regulations as is provided in the aforemen-
tioned acts.
It is further resolved, that if any person shall be guilty of
inoculating any persons, or aiding, assisting or advising
thereto, within this state, contrary to this resolve, he shall
forfeit and pay a fine of £30, lawful money, for each person
who shall be so inoculated, contrary to the tenor hereof, to
be recovered by bill, plaint or information, in any court of
record within this state ; one-half thereof, to and for the
use of the informer, and the remainder for the use of this
state.
And it is ordered, that a copy hereof, be published in the
next Providence Gazette, and sent to each town clerk with-
in this state.
It is voted and resolved, that the attorney general be,
and he is hereby, directed to prosecute any persons who
have been, or may be, guilt of a breach of an act of this As-
sembly passed at the last session, entitled " An act in addi-
tion to, and amendment of, an act permitting inoculation for
the small pox within this state, to the first courts proper to
try the same."
It is voted and resolved, that the bounties allowed to the
soldiers who may enlist into the brigade ordered to be
raised within this state, be paid in Continental bills of
credit ; and that the committees appointed to receive the
said bounties, receive the same in Continental bills ac-
cordingly.
It is voted and resolved, that the council of war be, and
they are hereby, empowered to excuse from personal duty
422 RECORDS OF THE STATE OF RHODE ISLAND [MAY,
in the militia, such persons as may from time to time be
employed within this state, in manufacturing military-
stores and other articles for the use of the United States,
agreeably to the true intent and meaning of a resolution of
Congress of the 1st of May, A. D. 1778.
Both houses being resolved into a grand committee, made
choice of the following gentlemen to constitute a council of
Names of the Members of the Council of War.
For the county of Newport — Henry Ward, Esq., Thomas
Rumreil, Esq., Pardon Gray, Esq.
For the county of Providence — Hon. Jabez Bowen, Esq.,
John Sayles, Esq., Gideon Comstock, Esq., John Updike,
Esq., James Lovett, Esq., Esek Hopkins, Esq. .
For the county of Kings — Hon. Joshua Babcock, Esq.,
Immanuel Case, Esq., Rowse J. Helme, Esq., Thomas Wells,
Esq., John Northup, Esq., George Peirce, Esq.
For the county of Bristol — Nathan Miller, Esq., Cromel
Child, Esq., Josiah Humphrey, Esq.
For the county of Kent — His Excellency William Greene,
Esq., James Arnold, Esq., Stephen Potter, Esq.
It is voted and resolved, that Messrs. Pardon Gray, John
Jenckes, Rowse J. Helme, Nathan Miller and Thomas Til-
linghast, be, and they are hereby, appointed a committee to
prepare a bill for taking a just estimate of the ratable es-
tates in this state, in order that an equitable proportion of
taxes may be assessed upon the several towns.
That they make report to this Assembly at the next ses-
sion ; and that the council of war be empowered to appoint
suitable persons in the stead of such as shall refuse, taking
care to appoint persons in the same county with those re-
fusing.
It is voted and resolved, that the draft of a letter to the
Council of the Massachusetts Bay, presented unto this As-
1778.] AND PROVIDENCE PLANTATIONS. 423
sembly by the committee appointed for that purpose, be,
and the same is hereby, approved ; and that a fair copy
thereof, signed by His Excellency the Governor, be trans-
mitted to the president of the Council of Massachusetts
Bay.
Voted and resolved, that the following accounts be paid
out of the general treasury, viz. :
Bills Ordered to be Paid.
£ s. d.
Capt. George Simmons, in behalf of a part of his company, who did duty in
October last 84 00 00
Charles Church, for a number of guns by him purchased for the use of the
inhabitants of the town of Charlestown 49 03 0G
Major James Sumner, to furnish the armorer's shop with such necessaries
as may be wanted, authorized to draw out of the general treasury .... 40 00 00
William Channing, for his expenses in attending on the General Assembly,
as assistant clerk 5 10 00
God save the United States of America.
Governor Trumbull of Connecticut to the Governor of Rhode
Island.
Hartford, May 19th, 1778.
Sir : — As it is of the utmost importance in the great contest in which we are en-
gaged, that unanimity and harmony should subsist and be maintained, and a similarity
of measures be pursued by the respective states, itis with great anxiety and concern we
hear that your state, with any other, have hitherto declined acceding to those necessa-
ry and salutary measures reported by the convention at New Haven, in compliance
with and pursuance of a resolution of Congress, recommending the same.
And though many objections and difficulties lie in the way, and much delicacy
seemed to attend, yet considering it was the united voice of these states, that pointed
out the expediency, utility and necessity of the measure; and being the only means
that'could be devised, for giving an immediate check to the rapid depreciation and ex-
tortion, which, like a deluge, seemed to threaten us with immediate ruin, unless re-
strained by some sovereign act, until the more effectual and radical, but slower reme-
dies of taxation, &c, could be applied, felt and perceived; which when effected, and
the_tide once changed, the regulating system, having thus answered the end designed,
would of course fall to the ground like a useless machine.
Impressed with these ideas, this state were induced to comply fully with the mea-
sures recommended, confiding in our sister states, that they would do the same,
and not break that union and interrupt that harmony, on which our safety so much
depends.
And though no state is perhaps more affected in its relative interest, by the regula-
tion than this, as the army have drawn, and still continue to draw, their chief supplies,
424 RECORDS OF THE STATE OF RHODE- ISLAND [MAY,
especially of her meat kind, from hence ; yet every partial view has been obliged to
give way to the voice of the convention, the voice of Congress, and the general
good.
Pennsylvania, New Jersey and New York, we understand, have adopted the mea-
sures, and are determined to enforce them ; with whom we shall fully co-operate.
And had the eastern states done the same, Ave cannot but imagine we should have seen,
ere this, very happy effects therefrom. But your neglecting it, has thrown us into
great embarrassments, and proves very injurious to those states that have come into
the measure, and must eventually tend to ruin and defeat the whole.
"We must beg leave, therefore, to call your immediate attention to this important ob-
ject, and request your determination thereon, that we might be enabled to take such
further measures as may be found requisite.
At the same time, we cannot but flatter ourselves, from your former readiness to
join such measures as have heretofore been thought necessary for the general good,
that you will most cheerfully co-operate with us in this most salutary and important
plan. I am, with esteem and regard,
(in behalf of the Assembly of the state of Connecticut),
Your Honor's most obedient, humble servant,
JONATH. TRUMBULL.
His Excellency William Greene, Esq.
The Governor of Rhode Island to Governor Trumbull
State of Rhode Island and Providence Plantations. Council Chamber, >
Providence, 26th May, 1778. \
Sir : — This is to inform you, that a party of about seven hundred of the enemy land-
ed upon the eastern part of this state the night before last, towards break of day, and
burnt about thirty houses and stores in the towns of Bristol and Warren ; as also our
flat-bottom boats, to the number of about seventy or eighty, which lay at a place called
Kickemuit, which has greatly alarmed the inhabitants of this state ; especially, as we
have been for a considerable time past almost entirely neglected by our sister states
not assisting with their quota of troops, according to the agreement entered into by the
convention at Springfield ; and unless we can be better furnished for the future, I see
nothing to hinder immediate destruction from taking place ; for unless the major part
of our militia are continually upon duty, the shores cannot properly be guarded ; and
in that case, we shall very soon be deprived of the necessaries of life ; that considering
our unhappy situation, and how distressing the season has now opened, I am convinced
I need not use any further arguments to convince you of the necessity of your states'
sending forward their troops with the utmost despatch.
I am, with great respect, sir,
Your most obedient, humble servant,
W. GREENE.
To Governor Trumbull and President Powell.
1778.]
AND PROVIDENCE PLANTATIONS. 425
The Governor of Rhode Island to Governor Trumbull.
Providence, May 29th, 1778.
Sir : — General Wads worth and Mr. Ilillhouse, the committee appointed by your
General Assembly to confer with this and the state of the Massachusetts Bay upon the
measure recommended by the convention at New Haven, for reducing the exorbitant
prices of commodities, by regulating their rates, have delivered me Your Excellency's
letter of the 19th instant; which I laid before the General Assembly this morning.
The local situation of this government, hounded on the north and east by the Massa-
chusetts for an extent of upwards of sixty miles, together with the most unhappy cir-
cumstance of being shut out from every kind of supply by sea, renders us so connected
with that great state, that the General Assembly, thinking it could not answer any one
intention of the Congress or convention, for this state to adopt the measure without a
concurrent conduct on the part of Massachusetts Bay, and would involve us in the
greatest of difficulties, have come to a resolution to postpone the consideration of the
matter to a future day.
I will just add, that this state, as it hath ever done, will, upon all occasions, co-
operate with the sister states in every measure that shall be agreed upon for the good
of the whole.
I have the honor to be, with the greatest esteem,
Your Excellency's most obedient, humble servant,
WM. GREENE.
To Gov. Trumbull.
The Governor of Rhode Island to the Council of the State of
Massachusetts.
Providence, May 31, 1778.
Gentlemen : — The exposed situation of the frontier state of Rhode Island, hath ever
been an object that engaged the attention and claimed the exertions of the other New
England states in her favor ; and this she had a right to expect after the mutual agree-
ment of their convention at Springfield, and its ratification by the Continental
Congress.
But the moderation with which our sister states have of late conducted, in a matter
of such importance, has thrown us under the greatest disadvantages, and we already
feel its distressing consequences ; by the late descent of the enemy, the public as well
as this state, have suffered a very considerable loss ; and they are now, at this mo-
ment, burning and ravaging the towns of Tiverton and Freetown.
We have ordered our battalions to be filled by apportioning them to the several
towns, who are to fuAish their quotas by the 10th of June, under severe penalties for
neglect ; and in addition to those already raised, have one-sixth part of our militia,
alarm and independent companies, constantly on duty ; and shall make every other
exertion in our power, to defend ourselves, until the stipulated aids arrive. And we do,
in the most earnest manner, call upon the state of Massachusetts Bay immediately to
send in their quota of troops, and rescue us from the destruction that otherwise must
ensue. I am yours, &c, WM. GREENE.
To the Council of Massachusetts Bay.
VOL. VIII. 54
426 RECORDS OF THE STATE OF RHODE ISLAND [JUNE,
Proceedings of the General Assembly, held for the State of Rhode
Island and Providence Plantations, at East Greenwich, on the
last Monday in June, IT 78.
His Excellency William Greene, Governor.
The Hon. Jabez Bowen, Deputy Governor.
Whereas, a committee was appointed at the last session
of this Assembly, to inquire into the number of guns, bayo-
nets and cartouch boxes, which have been purchased in be-
half of this state, within their respective towns, agreeably to
a former resolution of this Assembly ; the number of the
said guns now remaining in the said towns, and if any are
missing, to whom they were delivered, and who were ap-
pointed to purchase the same, —
It is voted and resolved, that said committee be, and
they are hereby, continued, for the purpose aforesaid ; and
that they make the said inquiry, and a report thereof, to
this Assembly, at the next session.
Whereas, this Assembly, at December second session, A.
D. 1777, did pass an act, appointing a committee to draft a
bill for confiscating and making sale of all the real and per-
sonal estates, of such of the inhabitants of this state and
others, who have forfeited the same, and their right to the
protection of this state ; and to invest the moneys arising
from the sales, in Continental loan-office certificates, to be
appropriated as shall be hereafter directed by the legislative
authority of this state, agreeably to the recommendation of
Congress, of the 22d of November last ; and whereas, said
committee have not yet made any report, agreeably to said
resolve ; and whereas, Henry Marchant, Esq., one of the
said committee, is now necessarily absent ; wherefore —
Resolved, that the Hon. Jabez Bowen, Esq., together with
1778.] AND PROVIDENCE PLANTATIONS. 427
Henry Ward, Rowse J. Helme and William Charming, Esqs.,
three of the committee heretofore appointed, be, and they
are hereby, continued a committee for the purpose afore-
said.
That they make report to this Assembly at the next ses-
sion ; and that a copy of this resolve be transmitted to each
of said committee, within ten days after the rising of this
Assembly.
It is voted and resolved, that Mr. David Austin be permit-
ted to take off the rye and wheat growing on the farm
lately improved by him, in the town of Exeter, without any
molestation from Mr. Samuel Carr, the present tenant.
Whereas, many of the inhabitants of the town of New-
port, with their families, are detained until others now on
the main are permitted to go on the island of Rhode;
Island, —
It is voted and resolved, that General Sullivan be, and he
is hereby, requested to effect an exchange and release of
the families who are detained, as aforesaid ; and that he
permit such of the families now on the main, with their
household furniture and wearing apparel, to go on said
island, as shall be necessary for that purpose.
Whereas, Joseph James, lieutenant of the third company
of militia, in West Greenwich, preferred a petition and rep-
resented unto this Assembly, that he, with Ensign Randall
Spencer, were ordered to join Capt. Benjamin Gorton's
company, in the late intended expedition against Rhode
Island.
That they served their tour of duty, and Capt, Gorton
made out an abstract for one month's pay, which was ob-
jected to by General Cornell and the committee, by reason
that there were more officers in said company than are al-
lowed by law ; and that his name and Spencer's were erased
out of said abstract, whereby they have lost the benefit of
having any wages for their service ; and thereupon, the said
Joseph James prayed this Assembly, to grant such a sum
428 RECORDS OF THE STATE OF RHODE ISLAND [JUNE,
of money as shall be equal to their wages ; and the prem-
ises being duly considered, —
It is voted and resolved, that the said petition be referred
to General Cornell, Colonel Lippitt and Mr. Nathaniel Mum-
ford ; and that they make report to this Assembly at the
next session.
It is voted and resolved, that John Northup, Edward Per-
ry, Theodore Foster and Thomas Rumreil, Esqs., be, and
they are hereby, appointed a committee to regulate the
fees of the officers within this state.
That they raise such penalties as are too low ; and that
they make report to this Assembly at the present or next
session.
It is voted and resolved, that this Assembly approve of
the sentence of a court martial, held on the 13th of June
last, laying a fine of £40, lawful money, each, upon Philip
Mowry and David Mowry ; and that the Honorable Major
General Sullivan be, and he is hereby, requested to trans-
mit an authentic copy of said sentence to the town clerk of
the town of Smithfield, who is hereby empowered and re-
quired on receipt thereof, immediately to issue a warrant of
distress, directed to the town sergeant or either of the con-
stables within said town, returnable within thirty days, com-
manding them, or either of them, to distrain so much of the
goods and chattels of the said David and Philip respective-
ly, as shall be sufficient to satisfy and pay the said sums of
£40, for each of them, together with all lawful costs.
That so much thereof, as will be sufficient to hire persons
in their room, for the tour of duty in which they have been
deficient, be applied to that purpose, by the town council of
said town of Smithfield, immediately.
That the residue (if any) be lodged in the treasury of
said town, as the property of said Philip and David Mowry,
in order to be applied to the same purposes, so far as the
same will extend, on future similar occasions, or that the
same be restored to the said Philip and David Mowry,
1778.] AND PROVIDENCE PLANTATIONS. 429
whenever they apply therefor ; provided, such application
be made any time before the same be expended ; and that
the officer levying the warrants, pay said fines to said town
clerk, to be appropriated agreeably to said sentence.
And it is further voted and resolved, that the officer who
shall receive the said warrant, shall proceed and execute the
same in such manner as other warrants of distress are by
law directed to be executed ; and that the secretary furnish
Gen. Sullivan, and the town clerk of Smithheld, each with
an attested copy of this resolve.
It is voted and resolved, that it be, and hereby is, recom-
mended to Gen. Sullivan, to order a trial of Bernard Miller,
by a court martial ; and that he order the sentence of said
court, being by him first approved, to be carried into exe-
cution.
It is voted and resolved, that the resolution of this As-
sembly, passed at the last session, empowering Gen. Sulli-
van to apprehend disaffected persons, and subjecting the mi-
litia, alarm and independent companies, when lawfully called
forth, to martial law, be, and the same is hereby, revised.
That the same continue in force until the meeting of this
Assembly at the next session, and no longer ; and that a
copy of this resolve be transmitted to Gen. Sullivan, as soon
as may be.
It is voted and resolved, that the non-commissioned offi-
cers and privates of the militia and alarm companies of the
town of Little Compton, who have done duty within said
town since the 6th day of November last, be allowed as a
bounty, after the rate of forty shillings per month ; and that
they be paid, accordingly.
Whereas, Capt. Thomas Allin laid before this Assembly a
return of sundry articles of clothing, belonging to the sol-
diers in his company ; and also of one gun and accoutre-
ments, and one silver-mounted hanger belonging to himself,
which were destroyed and taken by the British troops, who
landed at Bristol ; which being duly considered, —
430 RECORDS OF THE COLONY OF RHODE ISLAND [JUNE,
It is voted and resolved, that the consideration of said re-
turn be referred to the council of war.
An Act for carrying into execution a resolve of Congress,
laying an embargo on the exportation of all kinds of pro-
visions from this state.
Whereas, the Honorable Continental Congress did, on the
8th day of June last, pass a resolve, laying an embargo, pro-
hibiting the exportation of wheat, flour, rye, Indian corn,
rice, bread, beef, pork, bacon, live stock, and other provi-
sions, from and after the 10th day of the same June, until
the 15th day of November next, unless sooner revoked;
provided, that said embargo shall not be construed to pre-
vent the taking on board such provisions as shall be neces-
sary, for the stores only of any ships or vessels of war, or
others, trading to and from these states ; and did thereupon
recommend to the respective states, to take the most effect-
ual measures for carrying the said resolution into immediate
execution ; in conformity whereto, —
Be it enacted by this General Assembly, and by the au*
thority thereof it is enacted, that from and after the rising
of this Assembly, the master of every ship or vessel, as well
those bound on foreign voyages as coasters, shall, previous
to their sailing, produce to either of the intendants of trade
within this state, a true manifest, under oath, of all the pro-
visions which he hath on board said vessel for the use
of his crew ; specifying therein the different qualities and
quantities of provisions which he hath on board such ship
or vessel ; and thereupon, the said intendant shall give to
the master of such ship or vessel a bill of stores, permitting
him to carry the provisions therein specified ; provided, it
shall appear to the said intendant, that the quantity therein
contained, is not more than sufficient for the use of the crew
of such ship or vessel.
Be it further enacted by the authority aforesaid, that the
commander of every armed vessel, applying at the secreta-
1778.] AND PROVIDENCE PLANTATIONS. 431
ry's office for a commission, or letters of marque and reprisal,
shall, previous to his receiving the same, render a true
manifest, under oath, of all the provisions which he hath on
board such ship or vessel, for the subsistence of the crew
thereof, specifying therein the different quantities and qual-
ities of provisions ; and thereupon, the said secretary shall
deliver to the commander of such private ship or vessel of
war, a bill of stores, permitting him to carry the provisions
therein specified ; provided, it shall appear to him that the
quantity therein contained, is not more than is sufficient for
the crew of such ship or vessel of war.
And be it further enacted by the authority aforesaid, that
the intendants of trade, within this state, or either of their
deputies, be, and they are hereby, directed to search every
vessel within their respective districts, as well private ves-
sels of war as merchantman or coasters ; and if they shall
find on board a greater quantity of provisions than is con-
tained in said bill of stores, that it shall and may be lawful,
and the said intendants or either of them, or either of their
deputies, are hereby directed and fully empowered to seize
the quantity more than is contained in said bill of stores,
and to lodge an information against the same, before the
judge of the maritime court within this state, who is hereby
directed to proceed therein, agreeably to the act for the
trial of prize causes within this state ; and on condemnation
thereof, shall order and decree said goods to be sold at pub-
lic vendue, and shall order the one-third part thereof, after
deducting all charges of trial and condemnation, be deliv-
ered to the informer or prosecutor, and the other two-
thirds to be paid into the general treasury, to and for the
use of this state.
And be it further enacted by the authority aforesaid, that
every master of a vessel, as well private vessels of war as
merchantmen or coasters, who shall be detected in carrying-
or having on board his ship or vessel any greater quantity
of provisions than is in this act specified, shall forfeit and
pay as a fine, to and for the use of this state, the sum of
432 RECORDS OF THE STATE OF RHODE ISLAND [JUNE,
£500, lawful money, to be recovered by bill, plaint, or in-
formation, in any court of record within this state.
And be it further enacted by the authority aforesaid,
that dried and pickled fish be added to the number of
prohibited articles referred to in the afore-recited resolve of
Congress.
And be it further enacted by the authority aforesaid, that
this act shall continue and be in force, until the 15th day of
November next, unless sooner repealed by this Assembly ;
and that a copy thereof, be inserted in the Providence Ga-
zette three weeks successively, that all persons concerned,
may have notice thereof
Whereas, it hath been represented to this Assembly, that
Mr. John Read, who hath lately come ofT from the island of
Rhode Island, voluntarily joined the enemy on said island,
put himself under the protection, and acknowledged himself
a subject of His Britannic Majesty ; and hath thereby for-
feited the protection of this and the United States ; where-
fore—
Resolved, that it be, and hereby is, earnestly recommend-
ed to the Hon. Major General Sullivan, to order the said
John Read to be apprehended and confined ; and that the
General, as soon as conveniency will admit, send said John
Read back to the enemy upon Rhode Island.
It is voted and resolved, that John Nichols be appointed
ensign of the First Company of Militia, in the town of Exe-
ter, in the room of John Congdon, Jr., who declines.
That Benj. Thomas, be captain; Win. Collins, lieutenant ;
and Wm. Clarke, ensign, of the Second Company, in the said
town ; and that Geo. Willcox, be captain; John Bates (son of
Samuel), lieutenant; and Jonathan Lillibridge, ensign, of
the Third Company, in the same town.
This Assembly, at the last session, having ordered eight
hundred and thirty-nine men to be raised by the 10th of
June last, for filling up the state's brigade, ordered at the
session in December last, and apportioned the same to the
several towns ; some of which have not raised the quota
1778.] AND PROVIDENCE PLANTATIONS. 433
assigned them, and requested a further time for that
purpose, —
It is therefore resolved, that such delinquent towns shall
keep up in the field so many men from the militia, alarm
and independent companies, in such town, as they are defi-
cient in their quota, as aforesaid, until the same shall be
completed.
That the militia so doing duty, shall be entitled to the
Continental wages and rations only.
That such delinquent towns be empowered to raise the
deficient numbers as aforesaid, on or before the 16th day of
Jufyyinst. ; and that the men so enlisting, shall receive the
wages, bounties and rations allowed by the said resolve.
That the colonel or commanding officer of the respective
regiments of militia in this state, be directed to make in-
quiry from time to time, of the numbers of men raised by
the several towns in their respective districts, as their quota
as aforesaid, and to draught a sufficient number out of the
militia, alarm and independent companies, to make good
such deficiency, who shall do duty for fifteen days each.
That the men which shall be so draughted, do duty in
the companies, and under the command of officers, in the
twelve months' brigade.
That such towns as shall enlist their quotas by the said
time, shall be excused the fines they may have incurred by
their delinquency ; and that the town clerks of the delin-
quent towns make a return of the numbers of men by them
enlisted within the time limited, to the council of war, on
the 17th day of July inst.
And it is ordered, that a copy hereof, be immediately
transmitted to the said town clerks.
Whereas, Daniel Chace, of North Kingstown, in the coun-
ty of Kings, yeoman, preferred a petition, and represented
unto this Assembly, that he is a true and faithful subject of,
and bears true faith and allegiance to, the United States of
America in general, and to this state in particular.
vol vm. 55
434 RECORDS OF THE STATE OF RHODE ISLAND [JUNE,
That he hath complied with all the rales and orders of
the state, and hath at all times and upon all occasions done
duty as a soldier.
That he was an inhabitant of the island of Prudence, was
driven from thence, and had most of his estate destroyed by
the British forces.
That his father, James Chace, is now, and for the space of
thirty years, hath been an inhabitant of Middletown, on
Rhode Island, but hath never joined the British forces in
any measure or degree ; and that his said father was the
owner of a certain farm in the town of Little Compton, up-
on which his brother lately dwelt, until dispossessed by or-
der of this Assembly, but for what reasons he knows not ;
and thereupon, the said Daniel Chace prayed this Assembly
to take the premises into consideration, and grant him the
benefit of said farm, to and for his own use ; and the prem-
ises being duly considered, —
It is voted and resolved, that said petition be referred.
That Peter Phillips, Pardon Gray, Nathaniel Searle and
William Cooke, Esqs., be, and they are hereby, appointed a
committee to inquire into the truth of the facts therein
contained ; and that they make report thereof to this As-
sembly, at the next session.
It is voted and resolved, that the intendant for the port
of Providence, be, and he is hereby, directed to clear out
about four tons of bread for the privateer sloop Gen. Stark,
owned by Nathan Miller and others of this state ; which
vessel is now at New London, and bound on a cruise against
the enemies of the United States.
Whereas, Akraw Remington, a negro man slave, belong-
ing to Mr. Benjamin Remington, hath enlisted into the Con-
tinental service, agreeably to a resolution of this Assembly,
and hath been appraised by the committee appointed for
that purpose, and valued at £120, lawful money, —
It is voted resolved, that the said Benjamin Remington
be allowed the said sum of £120 ; and that he be paid the
177S.] AND PROVIDENCE PLANTATIONS. 435
same out of the general treasury, upon his producing and
delivering to the treasurer a certificate of said appraise-
ment.
Whereas, Beriah Brown, Esq., presented unto this Assem-
bly, the following report, to wit :
Report of the Sheriff of Kings count?/, relative to the estates of
WUUam Robinson and Samuel Gardner, of South Kingstown.
In obedience to the order of the General Assembly, I have inquired into the present
situation of the estates of William Robinson and' Samuel Gardner, situate in South
Kingstown, and do report:
That it appears by a certificate from the town clerk of South Kingstown, that the
estate of William Robinson is mortgaged to Sylvester Robinson, for four thousand and
thirty Spanish silver milled dollars, payable the 13th day of March, A. D. 1773. The
said Sylvester, who is in possession of the premises, informs me, that the said William
owed him a sum of money which was not contained in the mortgage.
It also appears by a certificate from said town clerk, that the estate of Samuel Gard-
ner is mortgaged to Thomas Brown, for one hundred and sixty-seven Spanish silver
milled dollars, payable the 25th day of March, A. D. 1772. Abijah Babcock, the
present tenant, informed me that he is to give said Gardner for said estate, §150, five
hundred weight of pork, and the cutting some brush, per year; and that he now owes
said Gardner two years' rent.
Which is submitted by Tour Honors' most humble servant,
July 2, 1778. BERIAH BROWN, Sheriff.
And the said report being duly considered. —
It is voted and resolved, that the same be, and hereby is,
accepted.
That the consideration thereof, be referred to the next
session of this Assembly.
That the said Abijah Babcock, who is the tenant in pos-
session of said estate, belonging to the said Samuel Gard-
ner, retain in his hands the back and future rents of said
estate, until the further orders of this Assembly ; and that
a copy hereof be forthwith transmitted to the said Abijah
Babcock.
Whereas, by a resolution of this Assembly, passed at
May session, 1778, John Cook, Esq., was required to appear
before this Assembly, to render an account of his conduct
in purchasing a quantity of clothing for the use of this
436 RECORDS OF THE STATE OF RHODE ISLAND [MAY,
state, which hath been adjudged unfit for service ; and the
said John Cook having appeared, agreeably to said resolu-
tion, and this Assembly have examined into the matter, —
It is voted and resolved, that the conduct of the said John
Cook be approved of, so far as respects the purchasing of
the cloth.
But as the said clothing, or part, thereof, are badly made,
and too small for the use for which they were intended, that
the making of such of the clothing as are badly made, be
deducted from his accounts.
That if any of said clothing shall, upon examination, be
found too small for any person in the service, that they be
returned to the said John Cook, and be also deducted from
his account.
And that Stephen Potter, Esq., and Messrs. James Lovett
and Paul Allen, be, and they are hereby appointed a com-
mittee to examine said clothing ; and that they make re-
port thereof, to the council of war.
Whereas, there is a large quantity of clothing now in the
possession of the agent-clothier in this state, which was de-
livered in by the committees of safety, and it was necessa-
ry to alter the same, —
It is therefore voted and resolved, that John Rejmolds,
Esq., the agent-clothier, have the same altered in the best
manner he can, and deliver them out to the troops now do-
ing duty in this state.
That the committee appointed to examine the clothing
returned into said store by John Cook, Esq. ; also examine
the clothing above referred to.
That such of the said clothing as may be adjudged by
them unfit for he use of the said troops, be not altered or
delivered out ; and that the said committee make report
thereof, to this Assembly, or in the recess thereof, to the
council of war.
Whereas, Gideon Comstock and Christopher Lippitt, Esqs.,
two of the committee who were appointed to examine what
1778.] AND PROVIDENCE PLANTATIONS. 437
allowance should be made to the troop of horse for their
service, presented unto this Assembly the following report
and account, to wit :
Report of the Committee upon the Allowance to be made to the
Troop of Horse.
Agreeably to appointment, have taken the petition of the officers of the troop of horse
into consideration, and report our opinion as follows :
That the commissioned officers ought to be allowed the same wages from time to
time, as are allowed to the alarm and militia officers of equal commissions, doing
duty at the same time, and the same number of rations as are allowed the several mi-
litia officers with whom they respectively rank.
And your committee are of opinion, that the same bounties, wages and rations,
ought to be allowed the non-commissioned officers and privates, as are allowed the
non-commissioned officers and privates of the alarm list and militia.
That they be allowed for the service of their horses, the same per day as the pri-
vates ; and as to rations for their horses going express, that they be allowed the same
as are allowed in the Continental army.
Submitted by your humble servants, GIDEON COMSTOCK,
CHRISTOPHER LIPPITT,
Committee.
It is voted and resolved, that the sheriff for the county of
Kent forthwith take possession of all the personal estate,
wherever it may be found, of Francis Corey, who hath
joined the enemy on the island of Rhode Island.
It is further voted and resolved, that the said sheriff im-
mediately lease the real estate of Joseph Hunt, Jr., who
hath also joined the enemy (excepting the house belonging
to the, father of the* said Joseph Hunt, Jr., and one acre of
land), in the same manner and upon the same conditions as
the real estates in the possession of the state have been
heretofore leased ; and that he make report to this Assem-
bly, or in the recess thereof, to the council of war.
Whereas, John Cook, Esq., colonel, and Pardon Gray,
Esq., lieutenant colonel, of the second regiment of militia for
the county of Newport, represented unto this Assembly,
that the second company of militia in Tiverton, is become
too numerous for one company, and therefore prayed that
the said second company be divided into two distinct and
separate companies, in the following manner, to wit :
438 RECORDS OF THE STATE OF RHODE ISLAND [JUNE,
That all the men north of Quackett Brook, to Samuel
Borden's house on the country road ; and from thence, to
John Cook's saw mill, south, and to the westward of Staf-
ford's Ponds ; and thence, up the road that leads to Bedford,
until it meets Dartmouth line ; and thence, north, into
Cranberry Neck, may compose the second company.
That all the men from Samuel Borden's house, to the
north, as far as Fall River line ; thence, east, up to Wal-
tuppy Pond, and over the said pond, taking in all that part
called Waltuppy ; and also, all the men in the road, called
Stafford's Road, may compose the third company.
That officers may be appointed for the said two compa-
nies ; and that they be commissioned accordingly ; on con-
sideration whereof, —
Be it enacted by this General Assembly, and by the au-
thority hereof, it is enacted, that the prayer of the aforego-
ing petition be, and the same is hereby, granted ; and that
the said second company in Little Compton, be, and the
same is hereby, divided into two distinct companies, in man-
ner, and according to the lines above described.
It is voted and resolved, that a tax of £32,000, lawful
money, be levied on the inhabitants of this state, to be
collected and paid into the general treasury by the 1st day
of October next, including a tax of £7,500, lawful money,
being the one-fourth part of the tax recommended by a res-
olution of Congress of the 22d of November last, to.be as-
sessed upon the inhabitants of this state, in the course of the
year 1778.
That it be apportioned by the apportionment, and in the
manner whereby the last tax was apportioned ; excepting
that one-eighth part of the apportioned value of the town
of Bristol be deducted from the said apportionment,
That the poll-tax be sixpence for every £1,000.
That Mr. Nathaniel Mumford apportion said tax, and
draft an act accordingly ; and that he report the same to
the council of war, as soon as may be ; which being accept-
1778.] AND PROVIDENCE PLANTATIONS. 439
ed by the council, shall pass as an act of this Assembly, and
copies thereof, be sent to the several town clerks.
The following is the act reported to the council of
war, agreeably to the foregoing resolve, and approved by
them :
An Act assessing and apportioning a rate or tax of £32,000,
lawful money, upon the inhabitants of this state.
[Here follows the act.]
It is voted and resolved, that the militia, alarm and inde-
pendent companies, including the militia guards now on
duty, be forthwith discharged, exceping such of the militia,
independent and alarm companies, as are ordered by a reso-
lution of this Assembly to be drafted to make up the quo-
tas of troops heretofore assigned to the several towns to be
raised to do duty in the twelve months' brigade.
That one-quarter part of the alarm and militia companies
of Little Compton be continued on duty, till further orders
from the Assembly or the council of war ; and that Major
General Sullivan be furnished with an authenticated copy
hereof.
It is voted and resolved, that John Colwell, Esq., be, and
he is hereby, appointed lieutenant colonel, and Joseph
Knight, Esq., major, of the third regiment of militia in the
county of Providence.
That Ebenezer Slocum be appointed captain, Benjamin
Borden, lieutenant, and Jacob Sowle, ensign, of the second
company of militia, in Tiverton ; and that Benjamin Durfey,
Jr., be appointed captain, Richard Durfey, lieutenant, and
Shearman, ensign, of the third company of mi-
litia, in the said town.
It is further voted and resolved, that Samuel Montgome-
ry be appointed surgeon, and Stephen Munro, surgeon's
mate, to Col. Crary's battalion.
That Stephen Wigneron be appointed surgeon to Col.
Topham's regiment ; and that the said Doctor Montgomery
440 RECORDS OF THE STATE OF RHODE ISLAND [JUNE,
be entitled to pay and rations from the 11th of June last,
and the said Doctor Munro from the 28th of June last, be-
ing the times they respectively joined the said regiments.
It is voted and resolved, that John Reynolds, Esq., forth-
with proceed in supplying the officers of the twelve months'
brigade, agreeably to a resolution passed at the last session
of this Assembly ; the resolve of the council of war to the
contrary hereof, notwithstanding.
It is voted and resolved, that John Reynolds, Esq., deliver
the clothing ordered to be furnished the officers of the
twelve months' brigade, at the rate of four shillings, lawful
money, for what cost one shilling, sterling.
Whereas, at a superior court of judicature, &c, held at
South Kingstown, in April last, a real estate, mortgaged by
one George Gardner, Jr., to Nicholas Easton, Esq., deceased,
and given by the said Nicholas in and by his last will and
testament to Nicholas Easton, now at Newport, was re-
deemed by George Tefft, to whom the equity of redemp-
tion had been conveyed.
And whereas, the redemption money was ordered by the
said court to be paid to Daniel Rodman, the then clerk of
the said court, which was done accordingly, —
It is therefore voted and resolved, that the said Daniel
Rodman pay the said money into the general treasury ; and
that the same be paid to the said Nicholas Easton, whenever
he, or any person in his behalf, shall appear to demand the
same, with interest from the time of its being received into
the treasury.
Whereas, large sums of money have been received out of
the treasury, for purchasing arms for the use of this state,
great part of which remains unaccounted for ; and whereas,
salt, flour and iron, have been distributed to the several
towns, for which a considerable sum of money is now due
to the state, —
It is voted and resolved, that Mr. Nathaniel Mumford in-
quire into the sums of money received by any person with-
in this state for the purpose aforesaid, and which have not
1778.] AND PROVIDENCE PLANTATIONS. 441
been accounted for ; and also the balances which are due
for the salt, flour and iron, distributed as aforesaid.
That he make report thereof, to the council of war ; and
that thereupon, the attorney general commence actions
against the persons who have any balances in their hands
due to the state, and shall not immediately pay the same,
to special courts who are empowered to hear and determine
the same.
It is voted and resolved, that Edward Weeden be lieuten-
ant of the first company of militia, and Amos Jones lieuten-
ant of the second company of militia, in the town of East
Greenwich.
It is voted and resolved, that each field officer in the
state's brigade, receive out of the agent-clothier's store,
agreeably to a resolution of this Assembly, the following
quantities of clothing, to wit :
Fourteen yards of shirting, one coat, one waistcoat, one
pair of breeches, two pair of thread and one pair of worsted
stockings, one pair of shoes, one hat, three-quarters of a
yard of cambric, one yard and one-eighth of Holland for
stocks, and two pocket handkerchiefs, with buttons, silk,
thread and lining.
That each captain, surgeon and adjutant, shall receive ten
yards ancl-a-half of linen, one coat, one waistcoat, one pair of
breeches, two pair of thread and one pair of worsted stock-
ings, one pair of shoes, one hat, half a yard of cambric, one
yard and one-eighth of Holland for stocks, and two pocket
handkerchiefs, with buttons, silk, thread and linings.
And that the other staff officers and subalterns shall re-
ceive ten yards ancl-a-half of linen, one coat, one waistcoat,
one pair of breeches, two pair of thread and one pair of
worsted stockings, one pair of shoes, one hat, half a yard of
cambric, one yard and one-eighth of Holland for stocks and
two pocket handkerchiefs, with buttons, silk, thread and
linings.
It is voted and resolved, that the attorne}^ general suffer
a non-suit in the action commenced by Martin Seamans,
442 RECORDS OF THE STATE OF RHODE ISLAND [JUNE,
against the town treasurer of the town of Providence and
others, upon a thirty per cent, bond, to Providence inferior
court, June term, A. D. 1778.
It is voted and resolved, that permission be, and hereby
is, granted to Capt. Gideon Freeborn, an inhabitant of this
state, to proceed to the island of St. John's, in a boat or
small vessel in ballast, in order to bring from the said island
his effects that are there ; and that the said effects be ex-
empted from confiscation.
Voted and resolved, that the following accounts be paid
out of the general treasury, viz. :
Bills Ordered to be Paid.
£ s. d.
James Congdon, 3d, for paying off the bounty abstracts of the regiment of
milita under the command of Col. Noyes, authorized to draw out of the
general treasury 440 00 00
John Northup, as one of the committee of safety, for paying the wages and
bounties of the regiment of militia under the command of Col. Dyer,
authorized to draw out of the general treasury 1,200 00 00
James Congdon, 3d, for discharging the pay abstracts of Joshua Pendle-
ton and Samuel Thompson's companies, authorized to draw out of
the general treasury 35 00 00
Thomas Tillinghast, for paying bounties to soldiers enlisted in East Green-
wich 33 18 00
Stephen Mumford, for paying abstracts, authorized to draw out of the gen-
eral treasury 300 00 00
Executors of Ezekiel Burr, for sundry bills against the state 9 03 7£
Executors of Ezekiel Burr, for the said Burr's time and expenses for two
expresses to General Washington 5 08 00
Gideon Comstock and Christopher Lippitt, for their services as committee,
in examining allowances to the troop of horse, &c 2 14 00
William Wilbur, for billeting a number of soldiers stationed on Rhode Is-
land ; for carting cannon balls to Bristol Ferry ; for transporting soldiers
to Conanicut ; for carting baggage, &c. &c G 15 07
William Wilbur, for boarding a number of workmen, going express to Gen.
Washington, &c 3G 10 10
William Channing, for his expenses in attending on the General Assembly
at the last session, as clerk 4 17 00
Thomas Spencer, for his attendance on the General Assembly, at the pres-
ent session, &c 3 12 00
Abraham Greene, for his attendance on the General Assembly at the pres-
ent session 2 14 00
God save the United States of America.
1778.]
AND PROVIDENCE PLANTATIONS. 443
Governor Trumbull of Connecticut to the Governor of Rhode
Island.
Hartford, June 5th, 1778.
Sir : — Your letter of the 26th ult, has been duly received, as also Major General
Sullivan's, and laid before the General Assembly, in their present sessions ; and on
their serious and mature consideration, I am to inform Your Excellency, that the As-
sembly, although they are sensible of your need of further aid, and feel for your dis-
tresses, yet apprehend it is not in their power, consistent with our own immediate
safety, and many other attentions to, and engagements in, the common cause, to afford
you, at present the assistance they would cheerfully do, would our circumstances and
ability permit.
On the importunate request of General Washington and Major General Gates, we
have ordered six battalions, raised by an act of the last Assembly, for our own defence,
and with a view to yours, to join the latter at or near the North River; and three
troops of light horse ; and as a further aid, and for our own safety, have found it ne-
cessary in the present sessions to order two more battalions to be raised by a peremp-
tory detachment.
These additional levies will greatly distress the husbandry, and with the large
proportion we have furnished to the army, and various other Continental services, to-
gether with a great number in the privateering business, we have exceedingly drained
this state of inhabitants fit for military duty ; while those that remain, are extremely
fatigued with the variety of services to which they have been called.
We have also reas,on to believe it much more probable the enemy will bend their
way towards Hudson's River, or more immediately on this state, than any where fur-
ther eastward ; in either case, our utmost exertions will be wanted this way.
The contiguous and comparatively safe situation of Massachusetts Bay, and New
Hampshire, renders it, we apprehend, more proper and reasonable they should afford
you the necessary aid.
We have stipulated with Massacusetts for two hundred of the quota we were to fur-
nish your state, in lieu of so many we supply for them to Major General Gates; and
we trust those two states, whose circumstances so much better admit of it, will not
leave you destitute of competent support.
The stipulation in this behalf, at Springfield, the last year, was then as near as pos-
sible performed on our part ; but future events could not have been foreseen, and from
the nature of the thing, it could not be understood to be perpetually binding ; but with
or without the obligation of any previous contract, we shall be equally willing to afford
any of our sister states, on all occasions, every assistance in our power.
I am, sir, with the greatest respect,
Your Excellency's most obedient and most humble servant,
JON'TH. TRUMBULL.
To Gov. Greene.
444 RECORDS OF THE STATE OF RHODE ISLAND [SEPT.,
Proceedings of the General Assembly, held for the State of Rhode
Island and Providence Plantations, at East Greenwich, on
Wednesday, the 2d day of September, 1778.
His Excellency William Greene, Governor.
The Hon. Jabez Bowen, Deputy Governor.
Whereas, by reason of the late expedition against the
enemy on Rhode Island, the freemen of the several towns
within this state were prevented from attending town
meetings, for the choice of deputies to sit in the General
Assembly to be convened on the last Monday in October
next, at the times fixed by law, —
Be it therefore enacted by this General Assembly, and
by the authority thereof it is enacted, that town meet-
ings be held on the last Tuesday of September inst., in the
several towns within this state (not in the possession of the
enemy), at the place at which they were to be held for the
choice of deputies to represent said towns in the General
Assembly, on the last Monday in October next; and that such
other officers be chosen, and business transacted, as would or
might have been, had the meetings been held at the time
fixed by laAV ; and that the choice of deputies, to represent
any of said towns, at said October session, be, and the same
is hereby, declared null and void.
Ordered, that a copy hereof, be transmitted to the several
town clerks within this state ; and they are hereby directed
to issue their warrants for calling town meetings, agreeably
to this act.
Whereas, by means of the late expedition against Rhode
Island, several towns within this state, have not received
from the general treasurer their proportion of the loan office
1778.] AND PROVIDENCE PLANTATIONS. 445
certificates, for the state's money, which was by this General
Assembly allotted, within the time stipulated ; wherefore —
Resolved, that one month from the rising of this Assem-
bly, be further given unto the several towns, which have
not received their proportion of the said loan office certifi-
cates, to. exchange their state's money for the same.
That in the mean time the general treasurer do not de-
liver out any of said loan office certificates to private
persons.
That after the expiration of the term aforesaid, the said
general treasurer exchange the said loan office certificates
for this state's monej^ with any person who shall make ap-
plication for the same ; he reckoning the interest from the
date of the said certificates to the time he shall deliver out
the same, and receive the interest so arising, to and for the
use and benefit of this state ; and that a copy of this resolve
be published in the next Providence Gazette, that all per-
sons concerned, may have notice thereof.
It is voted and resolved, that Mr. Nathaniel Mumford col-
lect the accounts for repairing and fitting out the sloop Dia-
mond, and of flax seed purchased for the cargo of the said
sloop ; and that he lay the same before this Assembly as
soon as may be.
Mr. Robert Potter having represented to this Assembly,
that Mr. Rowse Potter was lately taken from North Kings-
town, and is now a prisoner with the enemy, at Newport,
and that he is desirous of obtaining his exchange, —
It is therefore voted and resolved, that Maj. General Sul-
livan be requested to grant a flag to the said Robert Potter,
for the purpose aforesaid ; and that he permit such articles
of clothing and provisions as may be necessary for the use
of the said Rowse Potter, to be carried in said flag;.
Whereas, certain of the inhabitants of the towns of John-
ston and Charlestown, who have enlisted into the twelve
months' brigade, have received money of their respective
towns in lieu of clothing, —
It is voted and resolved, that the council of war issue or-
446 RECORDS OF THE STATE OF RHODE ISLAND [SEPT.,
ders on the colonels of the regiments to which they respec-
tively belong, for the clothing due to such soldiers, in favor
of the said towns.
Provided, the said towns shall produce to the said council
the names of the men, and their receipts for the money,
and shall engage to supply them with clothing while in
service.
And provided also, that the said clothing hath not been
already received by the said soldiers.
It is voted and resolved, that the freemen of the towns of
Newport, Portsmouth, Middletown and Jamestown, to the
number of seven, at least, from each town, respectively, be,
and they are hereby, authorized and empowered to meet at
the places hereafter mentioned, viz. :
Those of the town of Newport, at the state house, in
Providence.
Those of Portsmouth and Middletown, at the house of
William Durfey, in Tiverton.
And those of Jamestown, at the house of Mathew Allin,
in North Kingstown, on the last Tuesday of September
inst, for the choice of deputies, to represent the said towns
in the General Assembly, on the last Monday of October
next.
Ordered, that a copy hereof, be published in the next
Providence Gazette.
It is voted and resolved, that the commission of Christo-
pher Robinson, as captain-lieutenant in the regiment of ar-
tillery, which he prays leave to resign, be accepted ; and that
he be dismissed from the same.
It is voted and resolved, that the Hon. William Bradford,
Esq., and Mr. John Jenckes be, and they are hereby, ap-
pointed to take into their care and custody the ship Aurora,
with her appurtenances ; the sloop Diamond, her cargo and
appurtenances, and any articles purchased for the voyage
intended to have been performed in the said sloop, and the
oil in the possession of Mr. Christopher Sheldon belonging
to the state ; and that they sell the same at public vendue,
1778.] AND PROVIDENCE PLANTATIONS. 447
in such manner as they shall think will be most for the
benefit of the state, after having advertised the same three
weeks successively in the Providence Gazette.
It is voted and resolved, that Messrs. James Lovett and
Nathaniel Mumford be a committee, to wait on Major Gen.
Sullivan, and request he will give an order in favor of the
state, for provisions or money equivalent, in satisfaction of
the provisions furnished by the militia, alarm and independ-
ent companies, who were called forth upon alarm ; and in
the late expedition against the enemy on Rhode Island.
Whereas, it hath been represented unto this Assembly,
by Peter Phillips, Esq., that some of the inhabitants of North
Kingstown, who are supposed to be inimical to the liberties
of the United States in general, and of this state in particu-
lar, have, since the arrival of the French fleet upon our
coast, availed themselves of an act of the General Assembly,
passed at the session held in May last, permitting all per-
sons, who had not before that time subscribed the test, or
declaration heretofore prescribed by an act of this state, to
subscribe the same within the time therein limited, before
the town councils of the towns in which they may reside ;
and whereas, sundry persons in the said town, have, in
consequence thereof, signed the said act before the said
town councils, contrary to the true intent and meaning
thereof, —
It is therefore voted and resolved, that the subscriptions
of all persons within the said town of North Kingstown,
who have subscribed the test, before the town council of
North Kingstown, since the session of this Assembly, last
held in East Greenwich, be declared null and void to all in-
tents and purposes whatever, as though they had not sub-
scribed the same.
Provided nevertheless, and it is hereby declared to be the
intent and meaning of this Assembly, that any and every
person who shall appear before the town council of the said
town of North Kingstown, and shall, in the judgment of
the said town council, or the major part of them, be persons
448 RECORDS OF THE STATE OF RHODE ISLAND [SEPT.,
who were, or ought to be, admitted to the privilege, aforesaid,
of signing the said test, not being inimical, as aforesaid, be
permitted to subscribe the same, at any time on or before
the 10 tli day of October next, and shall thereby be entitled
to all the privileges and immunities of free and liege sub-
jects of this state ; and the secretary is ordered to transmit
a copy of this resolve to the town clerk of North Kings-
town.
On application to this Assembly, by His Honor the Depu-
ty Governor, representing, that sometime in the month of
May last, Capt. James Munro, in the private ship of Avar,
the Blaze Castle, was taken by one of the King of Great
Britain's ships of war.
That he, with about fifty of his officers and men, have
been detained ever since, in Halifax jail; and that on appli-
cation by a number of the friends of the prisoners to the
Honorable Major General Sullivan, he has granted them
liberty to take a sufficient number of prisoners from on
board the prison-ship at Providence, to redeem Capt. Munro
and his people, —
It is therefore voted and resolved, that His Excellency
the Governor, or His Honor the Deputy Governor, be em-
powered and requested to grant the necessary papers, in
conjunction with the Honorable Major General Sullivan, for
commissionating some proper person in a suitable vessel, to
proceed to Halifax, with the prisoners, as aforesaid, to re-
deem Capt. Munro, and his people, with such others as shall
be released from Halifax jail ; and that this state will be at
the expense of one-half of the provisions, and the whole of
the wages of the captain and seamen, for carrying this re-
solve into execution.
Whereas, there are many of the non-commissioned officers
and men, in the state's service, to whom clothing is due?
that are already sufficiently furnished therewith, and are
desirous of receiving the money in lieu thereof, —
It is therefore voted and resolved, that the agent-clothier
in this state, be empowered to pay any or all the officers or
1778.] AND PROVIDENCE PLANTATIONS. 449
privates that choose to receive the cash in lieu of their
clothes, at the same rate that he paid them off the last
year.
Provided, that the colonels, or commanding officers of the
regiments, shall judge that the said persons have clothes
sufficient to do duty in, during the time they have enlisted
for.
Whereas, a large quantity of stockings are wanted for the
use of the troops in the service of this and the other United
States, —
It is thereupon voted and resolved, that John Reynolds,
Esq., agent-clothier in this state, be empowered to receive
what sheep's wool he may want, belonging to this state, now
in the hands of Enoch Haszard and Rowse J. Helme, Esqs. ;
and that he get the same manufactured or exchanged for
good yarn stockings, as soon as may be.
It is voted and resolved, that the council of war convene
for the despatch of public business, once in each month; and
that they continue in being for four days, and not longer,
unless upon the most urgent occasions.
Whereas, Richard Fry, Esq., sheriff of the county of Kent,
laid before this Assembly the following report, viz. :
Report of the Sheriff of Kent county, relative to certain Confiscated
Property.
Kent, ss. July, 1778.
In obedience to an act of the Honorable the General As-
sembly, I have taken into possession all the estate of Francis
Corey, that hath come to my knowledge, viz. :
One bed and furniture, one table-cloth, four towels, four
gowns, one cloak and bonnet, one round chair, one small
table, one pair shovel and tongs, one pair hand-irons, one
regimental coat, one gun and equipage.
RICHARD FRY, Sheriff
450 RECORDS OF THE STATE OF RHODE ISLAND [SEPT.,
And the said report being duly considered, —
It is voted and resolved, that the same be, and hereby is,
accepted ; and the said Richard Fry is directed to dispose
of the above enumerated articles at public vendue ; and
that he pay the money arising from the sale thereof, into
the general treasury.
It is voted and resolved, that the expenses which have
accrued or may accrue, for warning in the militia, alarm
and independent companies, within this state, and examin-
ing their equipments, be paid by the towns to which such
militia, alarm and independent companies belong.
Whereas, John Reynolds, Esq., agent-clothier in this state,
hath represented unto this Assembly, that a large quantity
of yarn stockings will be wanted for the use of the army the
ensuing winter, —
It is therefore voted and resolved, that three thousand
pair of men's good yarn stockings be furnished by the seve-
ral towns in this state, for the use of the soldiers, agreeably
to the following proportion, viz. :
Proportion of Yam Stockings to be furnished by the several Toums,
for the use of the Soldiers.
Pair.
Pair.
Providence
408
Bristol, -
84
Warwick
180
Tiverton,
■ 132
Westerly
108
Little Compton,
120
North Kingstown, -
168
Warren,
36
South Kingstown,
324
Cumberland,
84
East Greenwich,
96
Richmond, -
72
Smithfield,
192
Cranston,
132
Scituate,
144
Hopkinton, -
96
Glocester,
120
Johnston,
60
Charlestown,
84
North Providence,
60
West Greenwich,
42
Barrington,
48
Coventry, -
84
Exeter,
96
3,000
1778.] AND PROVIDENCE PLANTATIONS. 451
And it is further voted and resolved, that the several col-
lectors of taxes within the several towns be, and they are
hereby, authorized, empowered and directed to procure the
aforesaid stockings, by the best ways and means they can
devise, either by purchasing or distraining the same.
That the said collectors be empowered to receive the said
stockings, on account of the taxes, which they are, or may
be, empowered to collect.
That they do not give a greater or higher price than $4
for the best of yarn stockings, and other in proportion.
That the whole of said stockings be collected by the 1st
day of December next ; and that as fast as they are collect-
ed, they be delivered to John Reynolds, Esq., agent-clothier
in this state.
That the collectors be allowed five per cent, commissions
for procuring the same.
That the accounts for collecting the same, be laid before
the council of war, or this Assembly, for adjustment ; and
that the money for the stockings, aforesaid, be paid out of
the general treasury.
And it is further voted and resolved, that if any of the
towns, aforesaid, shall neglect or refuse to assess their quota
and proportion of said stockings, as is before proportioned,
within the time aforesaid, and deliver them as aforesaid, they
shall forfeit and pay into the general treasury of this state,
$8, for each and every pair of stockings for which they are
delinquent, to be recovered by the general treasurer to and
for the use of this state, by bill, plaint or information, in any
court of record proper to try the same.
And it is further voted and resolved, that copies hereof,
be immediately sent to the several town clerks within the
towns aforesaid, to be delivered to the said collectors.
Whereas, the General Assembly, at their session holden
in May last, did empower and direct Beriah Brown, Esq.,
high sheriff of the county of Kings, to collect the moneys
due from the persons who were purchasers of the effects of
the ships Syren and Sisters, and schooner Two Mates ; and
452 RECORDS OF THE STATE OF RHODE ISLAND [SEPT.,
whereas, Col. Ray Sands is possessed of a certain agreement
or obligation, made by Messrs. Broome and Babcock, upon
their purchase of a considerable quantity of the effects be-
longing to the said vessels ; and whereas, the said Messrs.
Broome and Babcock are willing to pay the same unto
Peter Phillips, Esq., one of the agents for the captors, pro-
vided they could do the same without being guilty of a
breach of the aforesaid act, empowering the said Beriah
Brown to collect the moneys aforesaid ; wherefore, —
Resolved, that the said Peter Phillips, Esq., and Col. Ray
Sands, or either of them, be, and they are hereby empow-
ered to receive the moneys aforesaid, from the said Messrs.
Broome and Babcock, to and for the use of the captors, and
to give a discharge therefor.
Provided nevertheless, if the said Broome and Babcock
shall refuse or neglect to pay the same unto the said Peter
Phillips or Ray Sands, or either of them, that this resolve
shall not be construed to be a bar, let or hindrance, from the
said sheriff's collecting the money from them in the way
pointed out, in and by the act aforesaid.
An Act obliging persons delinquent in military duty, in the
late expedition against the enemy upon Rhode Island, to
pay a fine, or perform a tour of duty in lieu thereof; and
for punishing persons who left the service in said expedi-
tion, without a proper discharge.
Whereas, sundry persons in the several towns of this
state, who were drafted, and required, pursuant to the reso-
lutions of the council of war, of the 29th July, and 17th of
August last, to perform military duty in the late expedition
against the enemy upon Rhode Island, were so destitute of
public spirit, and regardless of the laws, honor and welfare
of their country, as to neglect or refuse to serve in said ex-
pedition, in their own proper persons or by hiring others in
their places, at a time when there was a fair prospect, in
conjunction with the fleet of His Most Christian Majesty, of
expelling the enemy from this state ; and some persons, af-
1778.] AND PROVIDENCE PLANTATIONS. 453
ter having joined the corps to which they respectively be-
longed in said expedition, were guilty of leaving the service,
without a proper discharge ; and whereas, for supporting
just and equal government, it is necessary that every indi-
vidual, liable to perform military duty, when required there-
to, should be impartially obliged to perform his equal pro-
portion thereof, —
It is therefore voted and resolved, that the colonels or
commanding officers of the several regiments of militia,
alarm and independent companies in this state, who were
required to serve in said expedition, be, and they are here-
by, directed and commanded to make a true and exact list
or return, and transmit the same to the council of war ; and
also to the Honorable Major General Sullivan, or the com-
mander-in-chief of the American troops within this state, on
or before the 1st clay of October next, of the names and
places of abode of all persons in their respective regiments,
who were delinquent in performing military duty in said
expedition, and were not legally excused, or discharged
therefrom ; and also of all such as left the service without a
proper discharge.
That thereupon, all such delinquent persons, and those
avIio left the service as aforesaid, so returned, shall be liable
to serve a tour of military duty, without any allowance of
bounty or wages from this state, for two months, in one of
the state's battalions, in lieu of the time they ought to have
served in said expedition, unless such delinquent person
shall pay as a fine to and for the use of this state, into the
hands of the colonel or commanding officers of their respec-
tive regiments, or independent companies to which they re-
spectively belong, on or before the 25th day of September
inst,, the sum of £45, lawful money ; which fines, the said
colonel or commanding officers are hereby required to pay
into the general treasury, and make return as aforesaid, of
those who shall pay the fine.
Provided nevertheless, that any such delinquent persons
454 RECORDS OF THE STATE OF RHODE ISLAND [SePT.?
may have the liberty of hiring other suitable persons to
serve in their room, during the said term of two months.
And it is further voted and resolved, that it be, and it is
hereby, earnestly recommended to the Honorable Major
General Sullivan, or commander-in-chief, as aforesaid, to
take effectual measures for bringing into the field, and hold-
ing in service, any such delinquent persons for the term of
-two months, to commence from the time they shall arrive
at the place of rendezvous, who shall not pay said fine, as
aforesaid, or procure a suitable person to serve in their
stead, during the said term ; and that each colonel and com-
manding officer, as aforesaid, be furnished as soon as may
flbe, with a copy hereof.
It is voted and resolved, that John Reynolds, Esq., as
agent-clothier, be, and he is hereby, empowered to draw
£10,000, lawful money, in Continental money, or loan-office
certificates, out of the general treasury.
It is voted and resolved, that each of the justices of the su-
perior court be paid, until further orders from this Assembly r
■out of the general treasury, for their services and expenses, in
attending the courts in the several counties, the sum of
thirty-six shillings, lawful money, per day, for every day
such justices shall be employed in attending the said courts,,
in addition to the fees allowed by law ; and that the said
justices be empowered to draw that sum out of the general
treasury, upon producing a certificate from the clerks of the
several courts, of the number of days of their attendance, as
aforesaid.
It is voted and resolved, that the general treasurer be7
and he is hereby, empowered and directed to exchange the
Continental loan office certificates in his office for Conti-
nental money.
Whereas, it hath happened, that when the town councils
of several towns in this state, have hired persons to do mili-
tary duty, in the room of persons who have been draughted,
pursuant to acts of this Assembly, heretofore made, that
1778.] AND PROVIDENCE PLANTATIONS. 455
such persons, in whose room others heave been hired, as
aforesaid, have frequently concealed their personal estates,
so that warrants of distress, issued as the law directs, cannot
be levied ; and as such persons are frequently possessed of
real estates, —
It is therefore voted and resolved, that said town councils
be, and they are hereby, empowered to take possession of
the real estates of such persons, against whom warrants are,,
or shall be issued, and lease the same, or cut off as much
wood from the same and dispose thereof, as will be sufficient
to satisfy the money expended by the town councils in hir-
ing persons to do duty in their room, unless the persons
who have been draughted, and neglected to do duty, shall
upon notice thereof, otherwise discharge the same ; and that
the presidents of the several town councils be furnished as
soon as may be, with copies hereof.
Whereas, this Assembly, at their session held at Provi-
dence, in May last, passed an act empowering Beriah
Brown, of North Kingstown, in the county of Kings, Esq.,
to collect the moneys due from the several persons who
purchased any of the effects belonging to the prize-ship Syren,
ship Sisters, and schooner Two Mates, lately captured near
Point Judith, in this state ; and whereas, there are several
persons who have had knowledge of sundry private sales
being made of some of the effects belonging to said
prize-ships, &c, and have got minutes and accounts thereof,
who refuse to deliver the same to the said Beriah Brown,
to enable him to collect and settle the same with such pur-
chasers,—
Be it therefore enacted by this General Assembly, and
by the authority thereof it is enacted, that the said Beriah
Brown be, and he is hereby, further empowered to ask, de-
mand and receive of and from every person or persons, all
such minutes and accounts of sales that he or they have
had, or have been entrusted with, or have any knowledge
of; and also to ask for, demand and receive of and from any
person or persons, all obligations, securities and agreements,
456 RECORDS OF THE COLONY OF RHODE ISLAND [SEPT.,
entered into, made, given, or passed between the purchasers
of any of said effects, belonging to said prizes, and any of the
captors thereof (excepting the contract of Messrs. Broome
and Babcock, in the hands of Col. Sands), and cause all such
persons that have any such obligations, securities or agree-
ments, or that have any minutes or accounts of any sales
made of the effects belonging to the said prizes, to any per-
son or persons whomsoever, to render unto him a true and
just account thereof; and of what knowledge he or they
have respecting the same, under oath, to be administered
unto him or them for that purpose by the said Beriah
Brown, or any one justice of the peace in the county where
such persons who have any such obligations, securities,
agreements, or accounts of sales, resides or belongs.
And be it further enacted by the authority aforesaid, that
if any person whosover, shall refuse or neglect to deliver up
all such obligations, securities, agreements, minutes and ac-
counts of sales under oath, unto the said Beriah Brown,
after he shall demand the same, or shall refuse to declare
under oath their knowledge respecting the same, that in
that case it shall be lawful for the said Beriah Brown, and
he is hereby commanded to pray out a warrant, under the
hand and seal of any one of the justices of the superior or
inferior courts, or any of the justices of the peace in the
counties where he or they reside or belong, and cause them
to be committed to such county jail, and there to remain,
on their own cost and expense, until they shall deliver up
to the said Beriah Brown all such obligations, securities,
agreements, minutes and accounts of sales, under oath, as
aforesaid ; and shall declare under oath their knowledge re-
specting the same, as aforesaid.
Voted and resolved, that the following accounts be paid
out of the general treasury, viz. :
1778.] AND PROVIDENCE PLANTATIONS. 457
Bills Ordered to he Paid.
£ s. d.
Beriah Waite, for his time and expenses in carrying clivers acts of the Gen-
eral Assembly and council of war to the several towns in the county of
Kings 16 10 00
James Arnold, for his horse-hire and expenses in attending on the council
of war 48 00 00
Immanuel Case, for his horse-hire and expenses in attending on the council
of war 44 04 00
Gideon Comstock, for his horse-hire and expenses in attending on the coun-
cil of war 52 16 00
George Peirce, for his horse-hire and expenses in attending on the council
of war 13 04 00
Esek Hopkins, for his expenses in attending as a member of the council of
war 26 02 00
William Charming, for his expenses in attending on the General Assembly,
as clerk 13 14 00
Governor William Greene, for his horse-hire and expenses, in attending as
one of the members of the council of war 54 00 00
Abraham Greene, for his time and expenses in going express to Col. Kas-
son, and the town council of Coventry, with the order of the council of
war for warning the militia ; for attending on the General Assembly at
the present session, &c 5 08 00
Arnold Stafford, for attending as a waiter on the General Assembly at this
present session 3 00 00
Richard Fry, for his past services as sheriff of the county of Kent, $20.
Deputy Governor Jabez Bowen, for his expenses in attending as a member
of the council of war 15 15 00
God save the United States of America.
Proceedings of the General Assembly, held for the State of Rhode
Island and Providence Plantations, at South Kingstovm, on
Monday, the 2Qth day of October, 1778.
His Excellency William Greene, Governor.
The Hon. Jabez Bowen, Deputy Governor.
Whereas, Fisherman, a negro man-slave, the property of
William Allen, was enlisted by Capt. Elijah Lewis, into the
regiment under the command of Col. Greene, agreeably to
a resolution of this Assembly ; and the said Fisherman, be-
vol. viii. 58
458 RECORDS OF THE STATE OF RHODE ISLAND [OCT.,
fore he was mustered and valued, deserted to the enemy on
Rhode Island, whereby the said William hath been prevent-
ed from obtaining a certificate of the value of the said slave,
and a note for the payment thereof; wherefore, —
It is voted and resolved, that the said William Allen be
allowed £120, lawful money, for the said negro man-slave.
That the general treasurer give his promissory note for
the payment of the same, agreeably to the said resolution ;
and that the said negro man, if he should again come into
possession of this state, be at the disposal of this Assembly.
Whereas, Messrs. John Updike and Paul Allen laid before
this Assembly the following report, viz. :
Report of the Committee appointed by the General Assembly to burn
certain Lawful Money Bills.
We, the subscribers, together with the Hon. Jabez Bowen, Esq., being appointed
by the Honorable the General Assembly, a committee to receive of Joseph Clarke,
Esq., general treasurer, the lawful money bills emitted by this state, and burn the same,
do report :
That we have received, carefully counted and burnt of the several emissions, the
following sums, viz. :
January 15, 1776 £24,459 07 3
November 6, 1775 9,683 19 5
March 18, 1776 12,542 09 9
September 5, 1776 13,825 17 0
£60,511 13 5
May 3, 1775 £6,196 06 44
Interest thereon 122 12 7
6,318 18 114
June 16, 1775 3,312 00 6
Interest thereon 55 08 7
3,367 09 01
June 29, 1775 2,949 00 1
Interest thereon . . .46 13 104
2,995 13 114
£73,193 15 05
JOHN UPDIKE,
PAUL ALLEN.
And the said report being duly considered, —
It is voted and resolved, that the same be, and hereby is,
accepted.
1778.] AND PROVIDENCE PLANTATIONS. 459
It is voted and resolved, that in future no charges be al-
lowed in the accounts of the general treasurer against this
state, except the same are supported by orders of this As-
sembly, or the council of war; and the committees who
may be hereafter appointed to adjust the same, are to pro-
ceed accordingly ; and that the treasurer be furnished, by
the secretary, with a copy of this resolve.
It is voted and resolved, that the sheriff for the county of
Kings, forthwith take into his possession the real estate late
of George Wightman, deceased, but now belonging to Geo.
Wightman, who is in the service of the enemies of the
United States; and all other estate belonging to the
said George Wightman ; and that he make report to this
Assembly.
Whereas, a deficiency hath arisen in the stock belonging
to the farm formerly improved by Stephen Boyer, but now
leased to Mr. Charles Dyer, —
It is voted and resolved, that the said Stephen Boyer and
Charles Dyer be notified, by the sheriff for the county of
Kines, to give their attendance at the next session of this
Assembly, that the same may be adjusted.
It is voted and resolved, that Mr. Enoch Haszard, for the
county of Kings ; William Bradford, Esq., for the counties
of Bristol and Providence ; and Pardon Gray, Esq., for the
county of Newport, be, and they are hereby, appointed a
committee to receive and dispose of the rents due, in pro-
duce, for the estates leased in behalf of this state, within
their respective counties, in the year 1778, to the best ad-
vantage, at public or private sale ; and that the said Enoch
Haszard and Pardon Gray render an account and pay the
money arising from the sale of the rents within their re-
spective counties, to the said William Bradford, Esq.
Whereas, great inconveniences and difficulties do arise
within this state, by reason that the acts, votes and resolves
of the General Assembly, are not printed immediately after
the rising of the session of such Assembly where they are
460 RECORDS OF THE STATE OF RHODE ISLAND [OoT.,
passed, and the schedules duly transmitted to each town, as
the law directs ; wherefore —
Besolved, that it be, and hereby is, earnestly recommend-
ed to Henry Ward, Esq., secretary of this state, to employ a
sufficient number of clerks to forthwith copy and prepare
for the press all the acts, orders and resolutions of this As-
sembly, which are not already printed or prepared for the
press ; and that he employ as many printers (if Mr. Carter
cannot do the business) as will be necessary ; so that all the
schedules may, if possible, be ready to be delivered by the
next session of this Assembly, or as soon as may be.
Whereas, of late, the streets and highways of the several
towns in this state have suffered greatly, for want of due re-
pairs ; and the fines for neglect of doing duty on the high-
ways, as the law requires, are so small that they are in no-
wise adequate to the expense of mending and repairing
them ; wherefore —
Be it enacted by this General Assembly, and by the au-
thority thereof it is enacted, that from and after the rising
of this Assembly, the fines for not appearing and doing
duty on the highways, as the law requires, be as follows,
viz. :
For each man per day, twenty-four shillings.
For a man and one yoke of oxen, and cart or plough per
day, forty-two shillings.
For a man and two. yoke of oxen, and a good draught-
horse, with cart or plough, fifty-six shillings per clay.
And for teams only, the fines to be in the same pro-
portion.
And be it further enacted by the authority aforesaid, that
if any person shall be appointed a surveyor, and shall not
accept the appointment, and undertake the duties of his of-
fice ; or if he shall accept the same, and afterwards neglect
the duty of his office, he shall pay as a fine £15, lawful
money, to be collected and paid in manner as is directed by
an act entitled " An act for amending the highways."
1778.] AND PROVIDENCE PLANTATIONS. 461
And it is ordered, that a copy of this act be inserted in
the Providence Gazette three weeks successively, that all
persons concerned, may have notice thereof.
It is voted and resolved, that Jonathan Arnold, William
Bradford and Henry Ward, Esqs., be, and they are hereby,
appointed a committee to revise the several acts heretofore
passed respecting persons inimical to the liberties of the
United States, and to draw up such further acts as they
shall think necessary to prevent the return of persons to
this state, as inhabitants thereof, who have voluntarily left
the same, or the towns to which they belonged, to join the
enemy on Rhode Island, or elsewhere ; and also an act of
outlawry for all others who have, in arms or otherwise,
aided, abetted, or assisted the enemy, and for confiscation of
their estates ; and that they make report to this Assembly,
at the next session.
It is voted and resolved, that His Honor the Deputy Gov-
ernor, Jonathan Arnold, Esq., and Mr. John Brown, be, and
they are hereby, appointed a committee, to draft a letter to
the Honorable the General Assembly of the state of Con-
necticut, respecting the embargo upon provisions ; and that
they make report to this Assembly, as soon as may be.
Whereas, Mr. Robert Champlin, of South Kingstown, in
the county of Kings, mariner, preferred a petition, and re-
presented unto this Assembly, that in the month of Novem-
ber, 1774, he sailed from Newport, to the coast of Africa,
where he purchased a number of slaves, and disposed of
them in the island of Jamaica, part upon credit, and the
other part for the produce of the island, with which he
again sailed for the coast of Africa, and returned to the
island aforesaid ; when hearing of the cruel war carried on
by the British troops against his native country, he left the
greater part of his effects in the hands of the merchants and
planters, took passage to Newport, and from thence return-
ed to South Kingstown, aforesaid.
That he hath been at home almost two years, and nearly
expended all the effects he brought with him • and that he is
462 RECORDS OF THE STATE OF RHODE ISLAND [OCT.,
desirous of taking passage to some neutral island in the
West Indies, and from thence to Jamaica, in order to collect
his effects there ; but would not willingly go to any place
or port in possession of the enemy, without proper leave
first had ; and thereupon prayed this Assembly to grant
him a permit to pass to the said island of Jamaica, in man-
ner as aforesaid, in order to collect his debts and effects
there ; and that he may be permitted, if he collects his
debts or effects, to bring the same into this state, without in-
terruption ; and the premises being duly considered, —
It is voted and resolved, that the prayer of the foregoing
petition be, and the same is hereby, granted ; and that the
said Robert Champlin be permitted to go to the said island
of Jamaica, for the purposes therein mentioned.
Whereas, Messrs. Joseph Clarke, Ichabod Babcock, Jr.,
Samuel Champlin, Samuel Thompson, George Stillman, Na-
than Babcock, John Ross and Thomas Wickham, preferred
a petition and represented unto this Assembly, that their
boats were taken into the service of the United States, in
October, 1777, by order of General Cornell, for the intended
expedition against the enemy, on Rhode Island.
That they have been deprived of the use of them since
that time.
That their families depended chiefly on the advantages ac-
cruing from their use in fishing ; and that their seines have lain
still since that time, which might have been employed in the
support of their families ; and thereupon they proyecl this As-
sembly that a committee might be appointed, to appraise
them ; and that they might be recommended for payment of
the boats and damages to Gen. Sullivan, through the media-
tion of this Assembly ; and the premises being duly consid-
ered,—
It is voted and resolved, that the consideration of the
foregoing petition, and of the accounts therewith presented,
be recommended to the Honorable Major General Sullivan,
agreeably to the prayer thereof; and upon the recommen-
dation of General Sullivan, —
1778.] AND PROVIDENCE PLANTATIONS. 463
It is further voted and resolved, that Brig. Gen. Cornell,
Col. Pardon Gray and Major Thomas Sheffield, be, and they
are hereby, appointed a committee to ascertain the damages
sustained by the petitioners, and the persons who have ex-
hibited the said accounts, in the loss of the boats, and the
articles contained therein.
Whereas, Dr. Thomas Eyres preferred a petition, and
represented unto this Assembly, that his mulatto slave,
aged about twenty-three years, enlisted into the Conti-
nental battalion raised by this state, under the command of
Colonel Greene, by the name of Frank Gould, alias Eyres,
about eighteen months since, to serve during the war.
That during the time the act of this state was in force,
giving slaves so enlisting, their freedom, and allowing their
masters in proportion to their worth, the regiment was on
duty to the westward ; so that it was not in his power, for
want of the necessary certificates, to apply for payment for
the said Frank.
That the said Frank being esteemed by his officers an
excellent soldier, the petitioner does not object to his re-
maining in the service, on the terms of the act ; but hum-
bly prays this Assembly that he may be allowed a reasona-
ble sum for the servant, and that the said Frank may be en-
titled to the benefit of the said act ; and the premises being
duly considered, —
It is voted and resolved, that the prayer of the aforego-
ing petition be, and the same is hereby, granted ; and that
the committee heretofore appointed to estimate the value
of negro, Indian or mulatto slaves, who enlisted into the
regiment under the command of Col. Greene, estimate the
value of the aforesaid mulatto slave, and give the said
Thomas Eyres a certificate thereof; and that thereupon the
treasurer pay the same out of the treasury.
Whereas, Mr. Walter Burdick, of Charlestown, preferred
a petition, and represented unto this Assembly, that on the
25th day of May last, when the enemy landed at Warren,
464 RECORDS OF THE STATE OF RHODE ISLAND [OCT.,
he, with six others, attacked and had several fair fires at
them.
That they continued firing upon them until they re-
treated.
That in pursuing them, he was wounded very danger-
ously in the body ; of which wounds, he lay languishing at
Col. Miller's house, until the 12th of June, when he was car-
rid to Narragansett Ferry ; and from thence to Jonathan
Macomber's, where he lay in extreme pain the greatest
part of the time, until the last of August ; and that he hath
not been able to do a day's work since ; and thereupon
prayed this Assembly to order the cost and expense he has
been at, during his lameness, to be paid him ; and the
premises being duly considered, —
It is voted and resolved, that the prayer of the foregoing
petition be, and the same is hereby, granted ; and that the
council of war adjust the accounts of expenses, and order the
same to be paid out of the general treasury.
It is voted and resolved, that the draft of £50, lawful
money, out of the general treasury, made by the Honorable
Jabez Bowen, Esq., in pursuance of a recommendation from
the president of the Continental board of war, to defray the
expenses of certain French gentlemen, in the service of the
Continent, be, and it is hereby, approved of.
It is voted and resolved, that it be, and is hereby, ear-
nestly recommended to Major General Sullivan, to obtain
an exchange of Messrs. William Borden and Sion Martin-
dale, Captain Joseph Gardner and Lieutenant Nicholas Un-
derwood, who are now jDrisoners with the enemy at Rhode
Island.
It is farther voted and resolved, that it be further recom-
mended to Major General Sullivan to permit the families of
the officers and men who were taken in the galley Wash-
ington, to draw the wages due to them.
It is voted and resolved, that the general treasurer imme-
diately discharge the notes by him given to the owners of
1778.] AND PROVIDENCE PLANTATIONS. 465
slaves who have enlisted into the regiment, under the com-
mand of Col. Christopher Greene.
That he also pay unto the owners of slaves who have en-
listed, as aforesaid, and who have not received notes for the
estimated value of the same, the sums of money at which
they were appraised, upon their producing certificates
thereof, from the committee appointed to give the same ;
and that the said owners be permitted to receive the whole
or any part of the value of their slaves, in Continental loan-
office certificates.
It is voted and resolved, that Lieut. Enoch Stanton be sup-
plied by the committee for supplying the families of officers
and soldiers in the town of Westerly ; or by the commissary
appointed by this Assembly at the present session, agreeably
to the acts of this Assembly now in force for that purpose.
It is voted and resolved, that the post employed to ride
from Connecticut to New Hampshire, by the committees
from the New England States, who met at Providence in
December, 1776, be, and the same is hereby, discontinued.
It is voted and resolved, that Thos. Greene, Esq., be, and
he is hereby, appointed commissary, to purchase such arti-
cles as are to be supplied in camp, to the Continental
officers and soldiers raised by this state, agreeably to a reso-
lution of this Assembly, passed at the present session ; and
that he appoint an issuing-commissary, or commissaries, to
issue the same, agreeably to the said resolution, and make
them such allowances as may be reasonable for their ser-
vices, to be paid by this state.
That the said issuing-commissaries be accountable for the
faithful discharge of the trust reposed in them, to the said
Thomas Greene ; and that the said Thomas Greene be ac-
countable therefor, to this state.
It is further voted and resolved, that the said Thomas
Greene be allowed for his services aforesaid, at and after the
rate of £30, lawful money, per month.
And it is also voted and resolved, that he be empowered
vol. viii. 59
466 RECORDS OF THE STATE OF RHODE ISLAND [OCT.,
to draw the sum of £3,000, lawful money, out of the gen-
eral treasury, for the purpose, aforesaid, on his giving bond
to the general treasurer, for the faithful discharge of the
aforesaid trust; and that he also be empowered to receive of
His Excellency Governor Greene, such quantities of sugar
in his possession, belonging to the state, as may be wanted
in the aforesaid business, giving his receipt for the same.
It is voted and resolved, that all the field, commissioned
and staff officers, in the Continental battalions raised by this
state, be supplied, agreeably to an act passed in August, A. D.
1777, wTith molasses, rum, sugar and coffee, at the rates af-
fixed in the act against monopoly and oppression or (if to
be procured), with the charges of transportation, to the
amount of one-sixteenth part of their wages in camp, by the
commissary appointed by this Assembly for that purpose,
they paying the money therefor, on the receipt of the arti-
cles ; and that the remaining three-sixteenths of the wTages
of those who have families, be paid agreeably to the regula-
tions heretofore made, for supplying the families of persons
in service.
It is further voted and resolved, that those field, commis-
sioned and staff officers, who have no families, for their more
comfortable subsistence, be paid monthly, in lieu of the re-
mainder of the said one-quarter part of their wages in cash,
in the following proportions, viz. :
Pay of Officers per Month.
A colonel shall receive, - - - $56 00
A lieutenant colonel, - - - - 45 00
A major, - - - - - 33 50
Each captain, - - - - 30 00
Each lieutenant, - - - - 20 00
Each ensign, - - - - - 15 00
Each surgeon, - - - - - 45 00
Each surgeon's mate, - - - - 30 00
1778.] AND TROVIDENCE PLANTATIONS. 467
which shall be paid them per month, for subsistence money,
by the paymaster to be appointed for that purpose ; and
that the other staff officers be allowed for subsistence money
in proportion to their wages.
It is further voted and resolved, that all the non-
commissioned officers and private soldiers, belonging to the
said Continental battalions, shall be supplied while in camp
with the like articles, to the amount of one-quarter part of
their wages, they paying the cash for the same, on receipt of
the articles.
It is further voted and resolved, that the remaining three-
quarter parts of the wages of the said non-commissioned of-
ficers and soldiers (excepting such soldiers as enlisted into
the regiment uuder the command of Colonel Christopher
Greene, in pursuance of an act permitting Indian, mulatto
and negro slaves, to enlist into the same,) who have fami-
lies, shall be by the said commissary paid to the town's com-
mittee appointed to supply their families.
Provided always, that such non-commisioned officers and
soldiers, who shall be recommended by some one of the field
officers of the regiment to which they belong for that pur-
pose, shall, if he choose, receive monthly, the sums follow-
ing, viz. :
Each sergeant, $30 ; each corporal, drummer and fifer,
$22 ; and each private, $20, in cash, for subsistence money
for themselves and families, over and above the wages he
or they may receive of the regimental paymaster, to be paid
them by the committees of the towns to which they respec-
tively belong.
And it is further voted and resolved, that those non-
commissioned officers and soldiers who have no families, ex-
cepting the soldiers who have enlisted in pursuance of the
said act, permitting Indian, negro and mulatto slaves to en-
list, shall receive, for their better subsistence, the following
sums per month, in money, viz. :
Each sergeant, $30 ; each corporal, drummer and fifer,
468 RECORDS OF THE STATE OF RHODE ISLAND [OCT.,
$22 ; and each private soldier, $20 ; which shall be paid
them by the commissary, aforesaid.
It is voted and resolved, that Benjamin Gardner and
Peter Phillips, of North Kingstown, be permitted to sub-
scribe the test act.
Whereas, Samuel Knowles, George Sweet, Jr., Ezekiel
Tripp and Ichabod Mosier, have concealed themselves, and
kept out of the way, so that they could not be apprehended
by the sheriff of the county of Kings, by virtue of a precept
issued forth by the chief justice of the superior court, all of
whom were accused of having uttered and passed counter-
feit money ; and whereas, the said sheriff hath seized and
taken into possession all the estates, both real and personal,
of the aforesaid persons, and the same hath been adjudged
forfeit by the superior court of judicature, &c, held at
South Kingstown, in the county of Kings, in October, A. D.
1777 —
It is therefore voted and resolved, that Beriah Brown,
Esq., sheriff of Kings county, sell all the real and personal
estates of the said Samuel Knowles, George Sweet, Jr.,
Ezekiel Tripp and Ichabod Mosier, that have been adjudged
forfeit, at public vendue, to the highest bidder, as the
law directs.
That he pay the amount thereof (after deducting charg-
es), into the general treasury ; and that the treasurer be,
and he is hereby, directed to give deeds of the same ; which
deeds shall vest in the purchaser or purchasers, the fee of
the said estates.
It is voted and resolved, that Messrs. William Richmond,
John Jenckes, Benjamin Bourn, John Northup and Othniel
Gorton, be, and they are hereby, appointed a committee to
draft a bill for taking a new estimate ; and that they make
report as soon as may be.
Whereas, William Aldrich, of Smithfield, in this state, pre-
ferred a petition, and represented unto this Assembly, that
Jemima Wilkinson, of Cumberland, single woman, who is a
1778.] AND PROVIDENCE PLANTATIONS. 4G9
preacher, and under a strong apprehension in her mind,
that she is divinely called to go and preach to the people in
England ; and has for that purpose, obtained Cfeneral Sulli-
van's permission to go upon Rhode Island, to take passage
from thence to England ; and has also obtained his permis-
sion to take with her Marcy Wilkinson and Rhoda Scott, as
companions.
That they are all unwilling to go, unless some man of
their acquaintance can be permitted to go with them.
That he is very desirous to accompany them, and has ap-
plied to General Sullivan for that purpose, who refuses to
permit him, without the consent of the Assembly be first
obtained ; and thereupon the said William earnestly desired
this Assembly to grant him permission to go upon Rhode
Island, in order to go from thence to England with the said
Jemima and her companions ; and the premises being duly
considered, —
It is voted and resolved, that the prayer of the said Wm.
Aldrich, in his aforesaid petition contained, be, and the same
is hereby, granted ; and that the said William Aldrich be
permitted to go under the direction of General Sullivan,
and subject to such restrictions as he shall prescribe.
Whereas, Messrs. James Lovett, John Dexter, Simon
Whipple, John Brayton, David Dexter, Jr., Benjamin Whip-
ple and Jotham Carpenter, preferred a petition, and repre-
sented unto this Assembly, that the bridge built over Paw-
tucket River, between the towns of Smithfield and Cum-
berland, near Unity Furnace (so called), is so impaired, that
it is almost impassable, and the public greatly incommoded
by means thereof.
That the said bridge was at first built by way of a lot-
tery, and hath ever since been repaired in like manner; and
thereupon, they prayed this Assembly to grant a lottery, to
raise the sum of £300, lawful money, to repair the same ;
and that Major John Fisk, Jotham Carpenter, Esq., Col. Ed-
ward Thompson and Mr. William Gulley, may be appointed
directors or managers of the said lottery, and prepare a
470 RECORDS OF THE STATE OF RHODE ISLAND [OCT.,
scheme accordingly ; and the premises being duly con-
sidered,—
It is voted and resolved, that the prayer of the foregoing
petition be, and the same is hereby, granted.
That the managers give bond to the general treasurer of
this state for the faithful discharge of the trust reposed in
them ; and that no cost accrue to the state from the said
lotteiy.
Whereas, it hath been represented to this Assembly, that
the colonels of the respective regiments in this state, have
returned unto the Honorable Major General Sullivan many
persons, as delinquents in the late expedition against Rhode
Island, who were sick or incapable of doing personal service
in camp, or were absent from this state before the militia
were at first called out ; and as it is not the intent and
meaning of this Legislature, that persons who were incapa-
ble of doing personal service, or who were absent from this
state before the first draught of the inhabitants, and had
not any knowledge of the said expedition, should be re-
turned as delinquents ; wherefore —
Eesolved, that the several field officers of their respective
regiments, do make return to General Sullivan, within thirty
clays after the rising of this Assembly, of the names of all
persons whom they have returned as delinquents, who at
the time of the draught, and during the time of their tour
of duty, were sick, or otherwise incapable of doing personal
service in camp, or before the first draught of the inhabit-
ants, were absent from this state, and had not any knowl-
edge of the intended expedition, that they may be excused
from the penalties of the late act made for the punishing of
said delinquents ; the said officers taking great care and
precaution that no one be excused, but those who are really
deserving thereof; and that a copy of this resolve be im-
mediately sent to each field officer of the regiments, and
commanders of the independent companies.
It is voted and resolved, that Messrs. John Brown, John
Jenckes and Benjamin Bourn, be, and they are hereby, ap-
1778.] AND PROVIDENCE PLANTATIONS. 471
pointed a committee, to inquire into the conditions upon
which the stock belonging to the farm late belonging to
William Vassal, were received by Messrs. Cromel Child
and Thomas Greene ; and that they make report to this
Assembly.
It is voted and resolved, that the council of war, upon ap-
plication made to them by Major General Sullivan, appoint
and commissionate the sergeants of his guards, agreeably to
his letter to this Assembly.
Whereas, the committee who were appointed to draft a
letter to the General Assembly of Connecticut, respecting
the embargo on provisions, laid before this Assembly a
draft of the said letter ; and the same having been duly
considered, —
It is voted and resolved, that the said draft be, and the
same is hereby, approved of; and that a fair copy thereof,
signed by His Excellency the Governor, be transmitted to
the said General Assembly, as soon as may be.
It is voted and resolved, that the draft of a letter to
General Sullivan, presented unto this Assembly by the
committee who were appointed to draft the same, be ap-
proved of; and that a fair copy thereof, signed by His Ex-
cellency the Governor, be transmitted to the Hon. Major
General Sullivan.
It is voted and resolved, that a tax of £30,000, lawful
money, be assessed upon the inhabitants of this state, to be
collected and paid into the general treasury, on or before
the 1st day of January next.
That Messrs. Zebedee Grinnell, Esek Hopkins, Rowse J.
Helme, Adam Comstock and William Bradford, be, and they
are hereby, appointed a committee, to apportion the same
to the several towns within this state, not in the possession
of the enemy ; and that they make report as soon as may
be.
It is voted and resolved, that the council of war consist
of ten members ; whereof —
One, shall be for the county of Newport.
472 RECORDS OF THE STATE OF RHODE ISLAND [OCT..
Three, for the county of Providence.
Three, for the county of Kings.
Two, for the county of Kent ; and
One, for the county of Bristol ; five, of whom, shall be a
quorum.
It is further voted and resolved, that the said council con-
vene on the last Monday in November next, and at such
other times as His Excellency the Governor, or in his ab-
sence, the Deputy Governor, shall think it necessary, for
the good purposes for which the said council was instituted ;
and that unless there be a member from three counties, the
said council shall not be deemed clothed with sufficient
powers to make any resolve whatever.
It is further voted and resolved, that there be allowed
and paid out of the general treasury, to each of the mem-
bers who live in the county of Providence, $4 ; and $6, to
each of the members who live out of the county of Provi-
dence (including their expenses), for each and every day
they shall attend the said council, convened agreeably to
this resolve ; and that such of the said members as re-
side twenty miles from the town of Providence, be allowed
one clay extra, for their times in convening and returning
home.
It is further voted and resolved, that if either of the
members shall neglect to attend the said council, at the
time ordered to be convened by this resolve, or at any
other time, when convened by His Excellency the Gov-
ernor, or in his absence, the Deputy Governor ; if a mem-
ber for the county of Providence, he shall pay as a fine,
$4 ; and if he lives out of the county of Providence, he
shall pay as a fine, $6, for each day's non-attendance on the
said council.
That the fines be paid into the general treasury, for the
advantage of the state ; and that the said council shall have
power to remit the fines of those who may have sufficient
excuses for their absence.
It is voted and resolved, that the act exempting the
1778.] AND PROVIDENCE PLANTATIONS. 473
inhabitants of the towns now in possession of the enemy,
from taxation, for their polls and personal estate, be, and the
same is hereby, repealed.
It is voted and resolved, that those persons who have not
subscribed the declaration or test, prescribed by an act of
this state, passed at June session, A. D. 1776, within the
time limited by a resolve of this Assembly, at their first ses-
sion in May, 1778, shall be, and they are hereby, permitted
to prosecute and defend actions, petitions, bills, and legal
processes of what kind or nature soever, before the General
Assembly, or any court within this state ; the resolve of this
Assembly, at their session in July, 1776, or any other re-
solve or act of this state, notwithstanding.
And that such parts of the acts and orders of this state,
as incapacitate persons, not having subscribed the said de-
claration or test, from prosecuting and defending actions,
&c, as aforesaid, be, and the same is hereby, repealed.
Both houses joined in a grand committee, made choice of
the following officers, viz. :
Sundry Officers Chosen.
Gideon Comstock, Esq., fifth justice of the superior court
of judicature, court of assize and general jail delivery, with-
in and throughout the state.
The following gentlemen to constitute a council of war :
His Excellency William Greene, Esq., the Hon. Jabez
Bowen, Esq., Pardon Gray, Esek Hopkins, John Jenckes,
John Northup, Joshua Babcock, Jonathan J. Haszard, Job
Comstock, Josiah Humphrey, Esqs.
Officers of the Militia.
Jeremiah Knowles, lieutenant of the Second Company of
Militia, in the town of South Kingstown.
Elisha Potter (son of Benjamin), ensign, of the said
company.
474 RECORDS OF THE STATE OF RHODE ISLAND [OCT.,
John Willcox, lieutenant, in Capt, Springer's company, in
Col. Topham's battalion.
Richard Durfey, captain, of the Third Company of Militia,
in the town of Tiverton, in the room of B. Durfey, who
declines.
Humphrey Shearman, lieutenant, and Thomas Durfey, en-
sign, of the said company.
Whereas, many inhabitants of the island of Rhode Island,
after having suffered every evil and insult, from the wanton
cruelty of our enemies ; and from affluent and comfortable
circumstances, are reduced to the most distressing necessity
for the common supports of life ; and are now by them (in
order if possible to render their distresses more aggravated),
thrust out from their late comfortable and peaceable dwell-
ings at this approaching inclement season, destitute of the
means of support and subsistence, and permitted to come
off to the main, to seek asylum and succor among their
brethren ; whereby, we are called upon, by every motive of
compassion, to extend that humanity towards them we would
wish to find under similar unhappy circumstances ; in order
therefore, to provide for their relief, —
It is voted and resolved, that Capt, Peleg Clarke, Mr.
Nathaniel Mumford, Mr. Pettis and Mr. Hezekiah Dayton,
of Providence ; Capt. Benjamin Almy, of Taunton ; William
Channing, Esq., of Dighton ; Christopher Ellery, Esq., of
Mendon; Mr. Lemuel Wyatt, of Rehoboth; Mr. Thomas
Rumreil and Mr. Robert Stevens, Jr., of East Greenwich ;
Mr. Constant Taber, of Tiverton ; Mr. George Champlin, of
South Kingstown ; Mr. Daniel Rogers, of Westerly ; Mr.
Benjamin Cozzens, of Charlestown ; Mr. Peter Cozzens, of
North Kingstown ; Messrs. Oliver Ring Warner and Jona-
than Otis,ofMiddletown,in the state of Connecticut; and Mr.
Samuel Brown, of Boston, be a committee, to take a regular
list of all persons and their families, who have already come
off, and shall hereafter come off, from Rhode Island ; and
particularly, of such as need assistance for support, and
make returns to the General Assembly or council of war,
1778.] AND PROVIDENCE PLANTATIONS. 475
from time to time, of their names, and in what towns they
are received.
That the said committee solicit donations from the charit-
able inhabitants of our sister states, and other well disposed
persons, and distribute what they can by that means collect,
as well as what may be granted by this General Assembly,
from time to time, as equitably as they can, to the several
town councils of the towns where our suffering brethren
may reside, to be delivered out to them under their direc-
tion, and according to their necessities.
And it is hereby most earnestly recommended to the
town councils of the several towns within this state, as soon
as may be, after the rising of this Assembly, to transmit to
Capt. Peleg Clarke, late of Newport, now residing at Provi-
dence, an account of what numbers of the inhabitants afore-
said, there are now residing in their respective towns, and
what numbers more they can comfortably accommodate
with dwelling-places, during the coming winter ; on receipt
of which, from any town, the said committee shall assist in
removing so many as they think proper to such town, as
soon as possible.
And for their more immediate relief, —
It is further voted and resolved, that the said Peleg
Clarke, in behalf of the said committee, be, and he is here-
by, empowered to draw out of the general treasury the sum
of £1,000, lawful money, to be appropriated as aforesaid.
And it is further voted and resolved, that the said com-
mittee cause fair accounts to be kept of all moneys, and
other things, received by donations, and drawn from the
treasury of this state, and of the expenditures of the same,
and account for their conduct and doings to the General
Assembly, when called upon for that purpose; the said
committee having generously undertaken to transact the
aforesaid business gratis.
And it is ordered, that a copy hereof, be published in the
next Providence Gazette, and transmitted to each of the
members of the committee appointed to solicit donations.
476 RECORDS OF THE STATE OF RHODE ISLAND [OCT.,
It is voted and resolved, that Pardon Gray, Esq., be, and
he is hereby, appointed and empowered to dispose of the
flax seed in his care, belonging to the state, for the best
price he can get.
That he do not dispose of the same at a less price than
twenty-four shillings per bushel, exclusive of the cask.
That he also sell the casks for the best price he can ; giv-
ing the first refusal of the seed and casks to the deputy
quartermaster general, for public service ; and that he pay
the moneys thence arising, into the general treasury, as
soon as may be, after the sale thereof; and report his doings
to the General Assembly at the next session.
The General Assembly having the highest sense of the
good conduct and gallant behaviour of Maj. Silas Talbut and
Lieut. William Helme, and the rest of the brave officers and
soldiers who attacked and took the enemy's armed galley,
lying in the East Passage, —
Do resolve, that the thanks of this Assembly be given
unto them, for the signal service done their country in cap-
turing the said vessel ; and that a copy of this resolve be
transmitted to the said Maj. Talbut.
Voted and resolved, that the following accounts be paid
out of the general treasury, viz. :
Bills Ordered to be Paid.
£ s. d.
John Northup, one of the committee of safety, for balance of his account. . 245 01 04
William Bagley, for sundry supplies, by him delivered out to the families
of officers and soldiers in the town of North Providence 43 15 02
Theodore Foster, for his time and expenses in going to Rhode Island, to
confer with General Sullivan, by order of the council of war, respecting
tha calling forth the militia; and also for his time and expenses in
going to, at and from Boston, to make application to the council of that
state for assistance 16 18 08
Paul Allen, for his services as one of the committee for counting and burn-
ing the lawful money bills of this state, received into the general
treasury 23 15 00
John Updike, for his services as one of the committee for counting and
burning the lawful money bills received into the general treasury 21 00 00
Rowse J. Helme, for his expenses in attending as a member of the council
of war, &c 57 05 00
1778.] AND PROVIDENCE PLANTATIONS. 477
£ s. d.
John Northup, for his expenses in attending as a member of the council of
war 34 17 00
William Tefft, one of the overseers of the poor of the town of Richmond,
for board and nursing of Sarah Jones, a pauper belonging to the town
of Newport, and removing her to David Potter's house 19 16 00
David Potter, overseer of the poor of the town of Richmond, for boarding
and nursing Sarah Jones, &c 32 08 00
John Jenckes, Paul Allen, J. Northup and G. Comstock, for their services
as committee for settling an account against John Smith, in favor of
the state 18 15 00
William Ellery, one of the delegates from the state in Congress, for balance
of his account 250 01 04
Jabez Bowen, for his services twelve days, in counting and burning money
in the general treasury 18 00 00
Jabez Bowen, for his expenses in going to Hartford, to bring the money
granted the state by Congress in June, 1778 , 49 02 06
Caleb Harris, as director of the state's powder mill, for materials provided,
superintending the same, &c 272 17 02
Caleb Harris, for divers bills by him paid, for repairing the powder mill, by
order of the Deputy Governor 110 11 00
John Jenckes, for his services as one of the committee in settling the gen-
eral treasurer's accounts 10 00 00
Samuel Mumford, for dinners provided by him for twenty -eight soldiers. . . 8 08 00
Stephen Potter, for his expenses in attending as one of the council of war,
in the months of June, July, August and September last 40 12 00
Robert Potter, for thirty-three dinners by him provided for soldiers from
Massachusetts Bay, doing duty in this state 9 18 00
Thomas Rumreil, for his expenses in attending as one of the council of
war 38 12 00
Paul Allen, as one of the committee in settling the accounts of the general
treasurer 7 10 00
Pardon Gray, for his expenses in attending six days as a member of the
council of war 13 10 00
William Potter, for three cords of walnut wood, by him delivered at the
state house, in Kings county 14 08 00
Capt. George Stillman, for billeting a number of soldiers of his company,
on their march from Westerly to Boston Neck, in December, 1776. . . . 10 19 06
Town of Little Compton, for boarding, and necessaries provided for James
Cheesebrough, a soldier sick with the small pox, in said town 56 09 03
Stephen Babcock, John Cole and Peter Wright, for mone3T advanced in dis-
charge of abstracts for services done on the shores, on the 29th and
30th of September, 1777, and not allowed by the auditor of accounts . . 23 19 04
Town of North Kingstown, for sundry expenses in providing a pest
house, &c, for Lieut. Col. Jacobs, and three soldiers, sick with the
small pox 26 17 05
Ebenezer Tefft, for his attendance on the General Assembly, &c, at the
present session 23 11 00
John Waite, for dinners furnished for five solders, by order of Major Syl-
vester Gardner 1 10 00
478 RECORDS OF THE STATE OF RHODE ISLAND [OCT.,
£ s. d.
William Charming, for his expenses in attending on the General Assembly
at the last session, as clerk 14 06 00
John Waite, authorized to draw out of the general treasury for supplying
the families of officers and soldiers in the town of South Kingstown . . . 200 00 00
God save the United States of America.
The Governor of Rhode Island to General /Sullivan.
State of Rhode Island, &c] South Kingstown, Oct. 30th, 1778.
Sir : — His Excellency the Governor having laid your favor of the 26th inst.,* before
the General Assembly, at their present session, they immediately took the matters
therein contained into serious consideration.
The particular circumstances attending Mr. Read's conduct in getting to the enemy,
upon Rhode Island, and his behaviour while there, produced very different sentiments
respecting the line of conduct to be observed towards him.
The Assembly considered Mr. Read a dangerous and inimical person, and not safe
to be trusted among us; and not being willing, until affairs should be more settled and
fixed, to bring any such person to a trial, imagined it would be most prudent to return
him to Rhode Island, and therefore requested your concurrence with that measure.
But from the reasons mentioned in your letter, the House are sensible that your con-
duct relative to him, was wise and judicious ; and they have now determined further
to inquire into his conduct, and order such trial as shall seem to them best; and there-
fore request that he may be continued where he now is, under the same restrictions as
heretofore, until called for by the Assembly.
Upon inquiry, we find that some of the officers of the militia misconstrued the act
for returning all delinquents in the late expedition. It was the intention of the Legis-
lature in calling forth the inhabitants, that only the fencible men should take the field ;
and not those who were sick, lame or otherwise incapable of doing personal service in
camp. It was expected that those in a situation incapable of bearing arms, would have
been excused from the draft by the field officers of their respective regiments, as hath
heretofore been customary within this state.
The Assembly, however, have been informed that some of the officers, particularly
of Cols. Noyes and Dyer's regiments, have returned the whole as delinquents who did
not serve, whether capable to bear arms or not.
Upon consideration of the matter, the Assembly came to a resolution that the several
field officers within their respective departmens should excuse and discharge from the
penalties of the aforesaid act such of those persons drafted, as should appear to them
were proper to be excused ; and they are accordingly to signify the same to Your Honor.
The General Assembly would have taken the highest pleasure and satisfaction in
promoting the four sergeants, agreeably to your request; but considering how very
tenacious the gentlemen in the army are of their rank and honor, and what difficulties
have heretofore arose in our state's brigade by making promotions of junior officers
to command their senior officers, have mentioned that obstacle to Your Honor. But
* The letter above referred to. is not found in the arehives of the state.
1778.]
AND PROVIDENCE PLANTATIONS. 479
paying great deference to your opinion, we have given directions to the council of
-war to grant the commissions, if you still think it will promote the good of the
service. In behalf of the General Assembly,
I am, sir, with the greatest respect and esteem,
Your Honor's most obedient and humble servant,
WILLIAM GREENE.
To General Sullivan.
The Governor of Rhode Island to the General Assembly of
Connecticut.
In General Assembly, •>
South Kingstown, October 31st, 1778. f
Henorable Gentlemen : — The scarcity of provisions within this state necessary for
the support of its inhabitants, occasions our addressing you at this time.
We will briefly state the causes of this scarcity. The unfortunate expedition of
1777, against Rhode Island, prevented the English grain from being sown in the usual
quantities, and the severe drought of the past summer, cut short the produce of what
was sown, as well as the labors of the present season; and from our men being all on
duty for a considerable time the present fall, great losses accrued for want of a timely
harvest.
Added to these, we have been obliged for the two years past, to keep as guards on our
shores, great numbers of our militia, whereby the state was deprived of their labor in
agriculture ; and our best lands, to the amount of nearly one-fourth part of our whole
state, have been either in the possession of the enemy, or so situated with respect to
them, as to render their improvement impracticable ; and by the blockade of our ports
by the enemy ; and the embargos, prohibiting the exportation of provisions from the
neighboring states, has prevented supplies both by land and water being brought in
necessary quantities into this state. We wish you also to consider that number of the
distressed inhabitants have already come, and are daily coming, off from Rhode Island
to seek support, and that a large body of troops are posted in the state.
From these facts, it is easy to conceive the distress to which we are liable, unless
prevented by timely supplies from your state, and such other of our sister states as
can afford them.
And we will not doubt, from a due consideration thereof, that you will immediately
remove every obstacle that prevents, on the part of your state, the free importation of
provisions by land or water, into ours, for the consumption of its inhabitants ; assuring
you, it shall be our particular care to prevent any supplies going to the enemy; and
that no provisions be exported from this state to foreign parts.
Li the name and in behalf of the General Assembly,
I am, with great esteem, honorable gentlemen,
Your very humble servant,
WILLIAM GREENE.
To the General Assembly of Connecticut.
480 RECORDS OF THE COLONY OF RHODE ISLAND [DEC,
Proceedings of the General Assembly, held for the State of Rhode
Island and Providence Plantations, at Providence, on the
last Monday in December, 1778.
His Excellency William Greene, Governor.
The Hon. Jabez Bowen, Deputy Governor.
It is voted and resolved, that Messrs. Olney Winsor and
Joseph Comstock be, and they are hereby, permitted to
subscribe the test; and that thereupon they shall be enti-
tled to all privileges as though they had signed the same at
any time heretofore.
It is voted and resolved, that the farm in Exeter, hereto-
fore leased to Mr. Samuel Carr, be again leased to him for
the year 1779; and that John Northup, Esq., Messrs. John
Chapman and Thomas Tillinghast, be, and they are hereby,
appointed a committee to determine the rent which shall be
allowed for the same ; and that they make report as soon as
may be.
It is voted and resolved, that Major General Sullivan be,
and he is hereby, requested to release Mr. John Read from
his present confinement ; and that he, the said John Read,
thereupon enter into recognizance, with two sufficient sure-
ties, before either of the justices of the superior court of ju-
dicature within this state ; himself in the sum of £5,000,
lawful money, and the said sureties each in the sum of
£2,500, lawful money, and conditioned for the good be-
haviour of him, the said John Read, and for his appearance
before the superior court of judicature, to be holden in
in Providence, March next ; and abiding the sentence and
judgment of said court respecting him.
It is voted and resolved, that Mr. Loclowick Updike be,
and he is hereby, permitted to subscribe the test, heretofore
1778.] AND PROVIDENCE PLANTATIONS. 481
ordered to be subscribed by the inhabitants of this state ;
and that thereupon he be entitled to all the privileges of a
subject of this state.
It is voted and resolved, that Immanuel Case, Theodore
Foster and Adam Comstock, Esqs., be, and they are hereby,
appointed a committee, to draught acts, in pursuance of re-
commendations from Congress, received since the last ses-
sion of this Assembly.
It is voted and resolved, that the twenty volumes of the
journals of Congress, for the year 1775, with the indexes
thereto, transmitted to this Assembly, by the delegates from
this state, be distributed in manner following, viz. :
One of each, to His Excellency the Governor ; one, to the
secretary, for the use of the upper house of Assembly ; one,
to the clerk of the lower house, for the use thereof; one, to
the attorney general ; one, to the general treasurer ; one, to
the sheriff of each county ; one, to the clerk of the superior
court ; and one, to the clerk of the inferior court of each
county in the state.
It is voted and resolved, that the delegates from this
state in Congress, be furnished with schedules of the pro-
ceedings of this Assembly and council of war, from the com-
mencement of hostilities, to the present time ; and that in
future said schedules be, from time to time, transmitted to
them, by the secretary.
Whereas, it has been represented to this Assembly, that a
large number of cedar rails, and a quantity of fire-wood,
have been stolen from the farm in North Kingstown, leased
by order of the General Assembly to John Howland, —
It is therefore voted and resolved, that Beriah Brown,
Esq., high sheriff of the county of Kings, be, and he is here-
by, appointed to examine into and find out, if possible, the
person or persons who have stolen the same.
That he take such spirited steps as to him shall appear
necessary for putting a stop to the said evil ; and that he
make report of his doings therein, to this Assembly, or the
council of war.
VOL. VIII. 61
482 RECORDS OF THE STATE OF RHODE ISLAND [DEC,
It is voted and resolved, that the journals of the proceed-
ings of the council of war, since the appointment thereof,
be printed ; that they also in future be printed from time to
time, with the schedules of the proceedings of this Assem-
bly ; and that when printed, they be transmitted to the
persons to whom, by law, the schedules are ordered to be
transmitted.
Whereas, the ship Minerva, of about three hundred tons,
and the sloop called the Miss North, of about thirty tons
burthen, transports in the service of the King of Great
Britain, have been wrecked upon the shores of this state ;
and whereas, the said vessels, their cargoes and appurten-
ances, have been, in pursuance of warrants issued by His
Excellencv the Governor, and the chief justice of the suoe-
rior court, taken into possession in behalf of this state, by
the sheriff of Kings county, —
It is voted and resolved, that the said sheriff immediately
secure all the cargo and appurtenances belonging to the
said vessels, and sell the same at public vendue, as soon as
notice thereof, can be publicly given ; and that he advertise
the time of sale three weeks successively, in the Providence
and New London newspapers.
It is voted and resolved, that the books and papers be-
longing to the offices of the clerks of the superior and inferior
courts, for the county of Providence, be forthwith brought
into the town of Providence ; and the clerks of the respec-
tive courts are directed to cause the same to be removed
accordingly.
Whereas, William M'Clean, a transient person, was driven
on shore within the town of Cranston, and his legs are much
froze, so that he is in immediate want of the assistance of
a physician, and other necessaries ; wherefore —
It is voted and resolved, that the town council of the town
of Cranston, forthwith afford the said William M'Clean the
necessary assistance ; and that the moneys by them ex-
pended for that purpose, be paid them out of the general
treasury.
1778.] AND PROVIDENCE PLANTATIONS. 483
It is voted and resolved, that the attorney general prose-
cute a libel in the court of admiralty, within this state, in
behalf thereof, for the condemnation of the ship Minerva,
and sloop Miss North, heretofore transports in the service of
the King of Great Britain, and lately shipwrecked upon the
shores of this state.
Whereas, many non-commissioned officers and soldiers,
who first entered into the brigade raised by this state, un-
der the command of General Cornell, received as a bounty
the sum of £20, only ; and those who enlisted since the
28th day of May last, have received a much larger bounty,
and the same encouragement in every other respect as
those who first enlisted ; and whereas, General Cornell hath
represented unto this Assembly, that by reason of severe
duty, and the length of the service, those who first entered
have worn out the clothing allowed them, and are now des-
titute,—
It is therefore voted and resolved, that as a gratuity for
their past services, and an encouragement to persons to en-
gage early in the service of the state, the sum of £15, law-
ful money, be allowed in clothing to each non-commisioned
officer and soldier, who entered into the said brigade upon
the bounty and encouragement allowed by this Assembly,
before the said 28th day of May; and that the agent-
clothier in this state, furnish such articles of clothing as
shall be required by General Cornell, for the purpose afore-
said, at the price they cost the state, including the charges ;
taking care not to exceed in value the said sum of £15, to
each of the said non-commissioned officers and privates.
It is further voted and resolved, that each commissioned
and staff officer in the said brigade, be allowed one inontlfs
pay extraordinary ; and that the paymasters of the respec-
tive regiments be empowered to draw the same out of the
general treasury, upon their obtaining orders for that pur-
pose from the council of war.
Whereas, the jail in the county of Newport is now in pos-
484 RECORDS OF THE STATE OF RHODE ISLAND [DEC.,
session of the enemy, and the jail in the county of Bristol,
was burnt in a late excursion of the enemy, —
It is therefore voted and resolved, that the sheriffs of the
counties of Newport and Bristol, and their respective depu-
ties, be, and they are hereby, empowered and directed to
bring any person or persons by them apprehended, or duly
committed to their custody, upon a civil or criminal process,
into the county of Providence, and deliver such person or
persons, so apprehended, or in custody, as aforesaid, into the
custody and keeping of the sheriff of the county of Provi-
dence ; who is hereby empowered and directed to receive
and commit him or them to the jail in the said county of
Providence, and in safe custody to keep, until he or they
shall be discharged by due course of law ; and that he be
entitled to the same fees for his services as are allowed in
similar cases.
Provided nevertheless, and it is further voted and re-
solved, that nothing in this act shall be construed to extend
to the preventing any person or persons who may be appre-
hended by, or be in the custody of, the said sheriffs of the
counties of Newport and Bristol, or of their deputies, from
being bailed if bailable, or otherwise duly discharged within
the county in which he or they may be apprehended or
taken into custody.
And it is further voted and resolved, that the said sher-
iffs be liable to be sued at special courts for the neglect of
any duty prescribed by this act, in manner as is directed by
an act for calling special courts within this state.
Whereas, Thomas Waterman, a second lieutenant in the
Continental battalion raised by this state, under the com-
mand of Col. Israel Angell, preferred a petition and repre-
sented unto this Assembly, that John Waterman, his father,
was quartermaster of the said regiment, and his family was
supplied with articles at the stated price, to the amount of
one-quarter of his wages, to the 14th day of December, 1777,
when he was appointed an assistant commissary of issues
to General Varnum's brigade ; from which time he never
1778.] AND PROVIDENCE PLANTATIONS. 485
drew any tiling for the support of his family at the stated
price, until the time of his death, which happened on the
24th day of April, 1778, he being then in the service of his
country.
That during that period, the family was greatly dis-
tressed ; his said father's wages not being, by any means?
adequate to their support.
That he being the only son of his father, the care of the
family is now devolved upon him ; and that his wages as
second lieutenant, so far from enabling him to contribute to
their relief, is insufficient to support him according to his
rank ; and thereupon the said Thomas Waterman prayed
this Assembly to direct that his father's family be supplied
with the necessaries of life at the stated prices, to the
amount of one-quarter part of his said father's wages, from
the said 14th day of December, 1777, to the said 24th day
of April, 1778 ; and from that time, to the amount of one-
quarter part of his the said petitioner's wages, at the same
rate ; on consideration whereof, —
It is voted and resolved, that the prayer of the said Thos.
Waterman, in his aforesaid petition contained, be, and the
same is hereby, granted.
It is voted and resolved, that Thomas Cranston, Esq., who
hath lately come from Newport in a flag of truce, and is
represented as an unfriendly person to the United States,
be permitted to reside on his farm at North Kingstown.
That he be confined to the same, and the limits of one
mile thereof.
That if he shall transgress those bounds, he be forthwith
apprehended by the sheriff of the county of Kings, or either
of his deputies ; or by any constable of the town of North
Kingstown, and be thereupon committed to the jail in the
said county.
It is voted and resolved, that His Honor the Deputy Gov-
ernor, Rowse J. Helme, Esq., and Theodore Foster, Esq., be,
and they are hereby, appointed a committee, to prepare
letters to the Most Honorable Continental Congress, to the
486 RECORDS OF THE STATE OF RHODE ISLAND [DEC,
state of Connecticut, and to the state of New York, rep-
resenting the distressed situation of some parts of this state,
occasioned by the scarcity of bread-corn ; and requesting
that the embargo in those states may be dispensed with, so
far as prohibits the exportation thereof to this state, by
land ; and that they make report to His Excellency the
Governor, who is hereby requested to sign and forward
them, as soon as may be.
Whereas, General Cornell, Pardon Gray, Esq., and Major
Thomas Sheffield, presented unto this Assembly, the follow-
ing report, to wit :
Report of the Committee appointed by the General Assembly, rela-
tive to certain Property lost in the Expedition against Rhode
Island.
We, the subscribers, being appointed by the Honorable General Assembly, a com-
mittee to appraise a number of boats and oars lost in the intended expedition against
Rhode Island, in October, 1777, and to assess such damages to the owners as we should
think proper, did, in obedience to our appointment, meet at Tivrerton, this 24th day of
December, 1778, and appraise the said boats and oars at the several sums affixed
against them, in the following order.
It was our intention to appraise the said boats at the prices they would have sold for,
at the time when they were charged.
As to damages, it is our opinion, that no more can be expected than the interest of
the money, from the time of the charge until payment be made ; the power of doing
it, we suppose to be lodged solely in the General Assembly or council of war, to whom
we refer the affair.
Capt. Samuel Thompson, of Westerly, laid two other accounts before us; one, for
guns, &c, lost at Point Judith, and the other for camp equipage furnished by the town
of Westerly, which was not returned ; which accounts we did not think ourselves war-
ranted to audit, by any thing contained in our appointment.
State of Rhode Island, &c, to the following persons, Dr.
.£ s. d.
1777. Oct. 1. To Oliver Davis, for one boat, fourteen feet keel, marked
0. D., No. 1, delivered in good order 30 00 0
" " " Samuel Champlin, for damage of his boat, received in a
condition not fit for use 20 00 0
" " " John Ross, for one boat, twelve feet keel, marked J. R.,
No. 3, delivered in good order 30 00 0
" " " David Saunders, for one boat, fifteen feet keel, straight
rabbet, No. 4, delivered in good order 31 00 0
" " " Samuel Thompson, for one Vineyard pilot-boat, twenty-
two and-a-half feet keel, No. 5, delivered in good order 70 00 0
1778.] AND PROVIDENCE PLANTATIONS. 487
£ s.J.
1777. Oct. 1. To Nathan Babcock, for one boat, eighteen feet keel, No. G,
delivered in good order 40 00 0
" " " John Gardner, for one Vineyard pilot-boat, nineteen feet
keel, No. 7, straight rabbet, in good order 70 00 0
" " " Ichabod Babcock, for one Vineyard pilot-boat, eighteen
feet keel, No. 8, delivered in good order 40 00 0
" " '• Joseph Clarke, for one boat, eighteen feet keel, No. 9,
delivered in good order 40 00 0
" " " Thomas Wickham, for a whaleboat, twenty-one feet
eight inches keel, No. 10, delivered in good order 30 00 0
" " " Fifty oars, belonging to the said boats, containing seven
hundred and fifty feet, at Is. 3c/. per foot 46 17 6
£447 17 0
EZEKIEL CORNELL,
PARDON GRAY,
THOMAS SHEFFIELD.
And the said report being duly considered, —
It is voted and resolved, that the same be, and hereby is,
accepted ; and that it be recommended to the Hon. Major
General Sullivan to pay the sums therein mentioned, to the
persons to whom the same are reported to be due.
It is voted and resolved, that the time for collecting and
paying into the general treasury the tax of £30,000, lawful
money, heretofore assessed upon the inhabitants of this
state, be prolonged to the 1st day of February next ; and
that the same be then paid into the general treasury ; or in
default thereof, that warrants of distraint be issued by the
general treasurer against the town treasurers of the delin-
quent towns, agreeably to law.
It is voted and resolved, that Brigadier General Cornell,
Col. Pardon Gray, Major Thomas Sheffield and Col. Joseph
Stanton, be, and they or any two of them are hereby, ap-
pointed a committee, to ascertain the damages sustained by
the persons who were the owners of certain articles certified
to have been lost with the boats that were sunk at Point
Judith, in October, 1777, so far as respects the said articles;
and that they make report as soon as may be.
Resolved, that the interest arising and due upon the notes
which were made by the general treasurer, upon an interest
488 RECORDS OF THE STATE OF RHODE ISLAND [DEC,
of six per cent, per annum, in pursuance of a resolution of
this Assembly, passed in December, 1776, be paid unto the
possessors of the same notes, up to the time the said notes
became due, out of the general treasury of this state.
That an interest of six per cent, per annum, be further
allowed upon said notes, from the said time of payment un-
til the same shall be paid ; and that a copy of this resolu-
tion be published in the next Providence Gazette.
Resolved, that the council of war meet at the state house
in Providence, on Monday, the 25th instant, for the dispatch
of business.
That the committees of the several towns, for supplying
the officers, and soldiers' families at stated prices, bring in at
that time their several accounts, excepting such of them as
may think proper in the mean time to adjust their ac-
counts with Mr. Nathaniel Mumford, the auditor of ac-
counts; and that the secretary publish a copy of this
order in the next Providence Gazette.
Whereas, Col. Joseph Stanton, Jr., and Major Thomas
Sheffield, presented unto this Assembly, the following re-
port, to wit :
Report of the Committee appointed by the General Assembly, to ap-
praise certain articles lost at Point Judith.
We, the subscribers, being appointed a committee, with General Cornell and Col.
Gray, to ascertain the damages sustained by the persons who were the owners of cer-
tain articles lost at Point Judith, in October, 1777, agreeably to our appointment, by
the Honorable General Assembly, do report as follows :
That the said articles were worth the different prices annexed to their several ac-
counts, as follows, viz. :
Articles lost, belonging to Timothy Bagley, deceased, to wit : £ s. d
One gun, bayonet and cartouch-box, one beaver hat, half-worn, a pocket-
book with $15; all at 14 10 0
Articles lost, belonging to Joseph Burdick, deceased :
One gun and bayonet, one flannel jacket, one linen shirt, one worsted
stocking, one she and brass buckle ; all at 8 02 0
Articles lost, belonging to Isaac Pendleton, deceased :
One gun, one knapsack, one new pair of broadcloth breeches, with turtle-
shell buttons ; one shirt, one pair of yarn stockings, one linen handker-
chief, one felt hat, one pot weighing twenty-two pounds, one large
wooden bowl ; all at 11 04 0
1778.] AND PROVIDENCE PLANTATIONS. 489
£ s.d,
Articles lost, belonging to William and Nahum Babcock, deceased :
Two fiuns, two bayonets, two canteens, one cartoueh-box, one beaver hat,
two-thirds worn ; one new felt hat, one pint basin ; all at 15 10 0
Articles lost, belonging to Jabez Cheesborough, deceased :
One gun, one bayonet, one cartoucli-box ; town property. One knapsack,
one linen shirt, one loose broadcloth coat, half worn ; one pair of new stock-
ings, one pair of linen breeches, one felt hit, a pocket-book, with Sj ; all at 7 01 0
Articles belonging to Joseph Hall, deceased :
One gun, bayonet and cartoucb-box, ; town property. One new broad-
cloth coat, a new felt hat, one new linen handkerchief, and a shirt half
worn, all at, except the gun and car touch box 4 00 0
Articles lost, belonging to Nathan Babcock, 3d, deceased :
One gun, one knapsack, one great coat, one thick blanket, one pair of new
serge breeches, one flannel shirt almost new, two pair of good stockings,
one pair of brass buckles, a felt hat almost new, §6 in cash ; all at 1G 15 0
Articles lost, belonging to John Pendleton :
One gun, one bayonet and knapsack ; all at G 00 0
Articles lost, belonging to Oliver Burdick :
One bayonet, gun and cartouch-box, one good flannel shirt, one pair of
new stockings, one shoe, one pair of shoe-buckles, one pillow-case, one
towel, one quart basin, one pewter plate and spoon ; all at 9 03 0
Articles lost, belonging to Amos Pendleton and Zebulon Pendleton :
Two guns with bayonets, two knapsacks, one good surtout coat, one close-
bodied coat, one pair of broadcloth breeches, two good shirts, two pair
of yarn stockings, one thick pair of breeches, three shoes, one silver
shoe-buckle, one pair of silver knee buckles ; all at 29 12 0
Articles lost, belonging to Thompson Burdick :
One gun, bayonet and cartoucn-box, one silk handkerchief, one beaver hat,
one pair of stockings, one pair of shoes, a linen handkerchief, $12, in
cash all at 14 04 0
Articles lost, belonging to Paul Babi ock :
One gun, one hat, one shoe and brass buckle ; all at 6 03 0
Articles taken by order of the town council; from John Latham :
One pot weighing twenty -four and one-half pounds, one tray; all at 1 04 4
Articles taken from Jonathan Foster :
One pot weighing twenty-two pounds 16 6
Articles taken from Jeremiah Willcox :
One pot weighing thirty five pounds, one pipkin ; all at 1 0G 0
£145 15 10
JOSEPH STANTON, JR.,
January 3, 1779. THOMAS SHEFFIELD,
Committee
And the said report being duly considered, —
It is voted and resolved, that the same be, and hereby is,
accepted ; and that it be recommended to the Hon. Major
General Sullivan, to pay the sum of £145 15s. llV/., lawful
vot. vm. 62
490 RECORDS OF THE STATE OF RHODE ISLAND [DEC,
money, to Colonel Joseph Stanton, Jr., for the use of the
persons who are entitled to the same, agreeably to said
report.
Whereas, great difficulties have arisen in supplying the
officers and soldiers of the Continental battalions raised by
this state, with articles at the stated prices, by the commit-
tees of the several towns, pursuant to an act of this Assem-
bly, heretofore passed ; and as furnishing the said officers
and soldiers with subsistence money, in addition to the wages
and allowances made to them by the Continent, will be a
more certain method of answering the purposes intended,
and prevent very great trouble and expense, —
It is therefore voted and resolved, that in lieu of the arti-
cles they were to receive at the stated prices, of the com-
mittees of the several towns, they shall in future receive
the following sums per month, in money, of this state's
commissary, whether they have families or not ; that is to
say :
Pay of Officers per Month.
A colonel shall receive
A lieutenant colonel,
A major, -
Each captain, ....
Each lieutenant, ....
Each ensign, -
Each surgeon, -----
Each surgeon's mate, - - - - 35 00
per month, for subsistence money ; and that the other staff
officers be allowed and paid in proportion to their wages ;
and that —
A sergeant shall receive - » - $20 00
Each corporal, drummer and fifer, - 19 00
Each private soldier, - - - - 18 00
for subsistence money, for themselves and families, over and
866
00
52
00
43
00
35
00
30
00
25
00
52
00
1778.] AND PROVIDENCE PLANTATIONS. 491
above the wages he or they may receive of the regimental
paymaster.
The non-commissioned officers and soldiers who have
families, the money shall be paid their families, by the
town councils of the respective towns in which they live,
the said town councils receiving the same of Thomas
Greene, Esq., the present commissary ; and those who
have no families are to be paid in camp, by the said
commissary.
And it is further voted and resolved, that one-sixteenth
part of all the field, commissioned and staff officers' wao-es,
and one-quarter part of the wages of the non-commissioned
officers and private soldiers, are yet to be paid in camp, as
heretofore ordered, in rum, molasses, sugar and coffee, at
their several stated prices, with the charge of transportation
thereon.
And it is further voted and resolved, that all acts hereto-
fore made for the payment of any part of the wages of any
officer or soldier in the respective towns, in articles at the
stated prices, be, and the same are hereby, repealed.
And it is further voted and resolved, that this act doth
not extend to any non-commissioned officer and soldier who
hath been heretofore a slave, and became free in consequence
of his enlisting into the service.
And it is further voted and resolved, that one-and-an-half
per cent, be allowed and paid to the town councils out of
the general treasury, for transacting the aforesaid business.
And it is ordered, that a copy hereof, be transmitted to
the several town clerks within this state.
It is voted and resolved, that John Brown, Esq., be, and
he is hereby, directed and requested to purchase two gen-
teel silver-hilted swords, and, in the name of this Assemblv,
present one to Lieutenant Colonel Silas Talbot, and the
other to Lieutenant William Helme, as a testimony that
this Assembly have the highest regard to their merit and
gallant behavior, in capturing the enemy's armed galley
Pigot ; and that, for the purpose aforesaid, the said John
492 RECORDS OF THE STATE OF RHODE ISLAND [DEC.,
Brown draw a sufficient sum cf money out of the general
treasury.
It is voted and resolved, that His Honor the Deputy Gov-
ernor, and Mr. John Brown, be, and they are hereby, ap-
pointed a committee to wait on Major General Sullivan, and
request him to cause an inquiry to be made into the num-
ber of horses belonging to the army within this depart-
ment ; and that he would reduce the same, if they exceed
the number allowed by the resolutions of Congress.
Voted and resolved, that the following accounts be paid
out of the general treasury, viz. :
Bills Ordered to be Paid.
£ s. d.
Benjamin Perry, for his time and expenses in apprehending and commit-
ting to jail one Mansfield Allen . a noted tory 9 12 0
George Pierce, for curing thirty-six sides of sole-leather and for making
fifty pounds of shoe-thread 76 04 0
Lieut. Enoch Stanton, for one-quarter of his wages, &c 80 05 6
Mrs. Experience Brown, wife Israel Brown, a soldier, for the amount of
sundry claims against the state 45 15 0
Henry Marchant, one of the delegates in Congress, from Rhode Island, for
expenses of himself, servant and horses to and at Yorktown, in Penn-
sylvania, and Philadelphia, from May 23d, to November 27th, 1778. . . 431 11 0
Henry Marchant, for his services one hundred and ninety -five days, at 45s.
per day 27 00 0
Dani.-l Tourtellott, for boarding and lodging John Osborn, a Britsh pris-
oner, belonging to the Lark frigate, who was captured at Prudence. . . 27 00 0
Col. John Cooke, for sundry charges on account of wages, as one of the
committee of safety 1,517 11 7
Esek Hopkins, for his expenses, and three days' service as one of the com-
mittee in adjusting the accounts of Col. John Cooke 5 08 0
George Peirce, for his horse-hire and expenses in attending as one of the
members of the council of war 7 05 0
Thomas Wells, for his expenses to Providence, in attending as one of the
members of the council of war 31 14 0
Josiah Ilumpbrey, for his expenses to Providence, in attending as a mem-
ber of the council ot war 27 19 0
William Richmond, for Ms expenses and cost of procuring copies of the
inventories of the effects of Charles Dudley and George Rome 3 00 0
William Chnce, for attendance upon, and medicines delivered to, certain
sick soldiers 24 16 0
William Cliace, for boarding, nursing, administering medicines to, and
dressing the wounds of John Baggs, Jr., a soldier in the service of this
state 26 05 0
Col. Pardon Gray, for the pay of certain militia and alarm men, for guard-
ing the shores in Little Compton, in October, 1777 8 12 3
1778.] AND PROVIDENCE PLANTATIONS. 493
£ s. d.
Col. Charles Dyer, empowered to draw out of the general treasury, for the
wages due to his regiment 5,271 00 4
Henry Ward, for his expenses during his attendance upon the council of
war 31 10 0
Col. William West, for bounty to the regiment under his command, in the
late expedition against the enemy on Rhode Island 3,021 05 0
John Vaughan, for his services, &c, in carrying baggage for the Artillery
Company of North Kingstown to Warwick Neck 1 04 0
William Charming, for his expenses in attending on the General Assembly,
as clerk 25 10 0
God save the United States of America.
Public Acts Passed at the October and December Sessions of the
General Assembly.
[The following acts, passed at the October and December sessions, are in the printed
Schedules.]
An Act establishing and regulating fees. (October.)
An Act enlarging the jurisdiction of the courts of justices of the peace, in trials of civil
actions. (October.)
An Act for inquiring into the ratable property of the state, and for taking a just esti
mate thereof. (October.)
An Act assessing and apportioning a rate or tax of £30,000, lawful money, upon the
inhabitants of this state. (October.)
An Act for supplying the army within this state with forage, fuel, teams and horses, in
cases of necessity. (December.)
Samuel Adams, Chairman of the Marine Committee, to the Gov-
ernor of Rhode Island.
Marine Committee, Philadelphia, j
December 15, 1778. (
Sir : — In pursuance of the direction of Congress and the request of the minister
plenipotentiary of France, I have the honor of transmitting to Your Excellency a
declaration, under the hand and seal of that minister, promising a reward to every
vessel that shall take or destroy a vessel of the enemy loaded with masts or spars, and
destined to die ports of Halifax, Newport or New York.
It is the particular desire of the minister that this declaration may be addressed to
Your Excellency, that the same may be made known in such manner as your wisdom
may direct.
I am Your Excellency's most obedient and very humble servant,
By order of the marine committee,
SAMUEL ADAMS, Chairman.
To the Governor of Rhode Island and Providence Plantations.
494 RECORDS OF THE STATE OF RHODE ISLAND [J AN..
Proceedings of the General Assembly, held for the State of Rhode
Island and Providence Plantations, at Providence, on Tuesday,
the Idth day of January, 1779.
His Excellency William Greene, Governor.
The Hon. Jabez Bowen, Deputy Governor.
It is voted and resolved, that Innnanuel Case, Jonathan
Arnold, Theodore Foster, Daniel Mowry and Joseph Stan-
ton, Esq., be, and they are hereby, appointed a committee
to prepare a bill in amendment to the act passed at the last
session, for the better supply of the army ; and that they
make report as soon as may be.
Whereas, it hath been represented unto this Assembly,
that there is a large number of fat cattle now on the farm
at Point Judith, in the possession of William Gorton, —
It is therefore voted and resolved, that Mr. Enoch Has-
zard immediately make application to the said William Gor-
ton, that the said cattle be delivered him, in satisfaction for
so much of the rent of the said farm, said as is due from the
said William Gorton to this state ; or that he otherwise
dispose of the same.
That if the said William Gorton shall refuse to deliver, or
otherwise immediately dispose of the same, the sheriff for
the county of Kings, or his deputy, is hereby empowered
and directed forthwith to take the said cattle into posses-
sion, and remove them to a place of safety ; that the said
sheriff or his deputy make report to this Assembly, or in the
recess thereof, to the council of war ; and that a copy there-
of, be transmitted to the said Enoch Haszard, and to the
sheriff of Kings county.
It is voted and resolved, that Col. Charles Dyer and Mr.
Stephen Boyer, be cited by the sheriff of the county of
1779.] AND PROVIDENCE PLANTATIONS. 495
Kings, to appear before the council of war, to be holclen
at Providence, on the 25th day of January instant, that
the deficiency of stock belonging to the farm, now
in the possession of the said Charles Dyer, and which was
to have been delivered by the said Stephen Boyer, may be
adjusted, and delivered to the said Charles Dyer, agreeably
to his lease.
It is voted and resolved, that the real estates heretofore
taken possession of in behalf of this state, in pursuance of
resolutions of this Assembly, be leased at public vendue to
the highest bidder, for the same, for one year, to commence
on the 25th day of March next.
That the rents of the said estates be paid in corn, r}'e,
cheese, butter, beef, pork and wool, at the prices heretofore
stated by this Assembly, to be delivered at or before the
expiration of the leases.
That the rents which may be due for the estates to the
southward of Pawtuxet river, be delivered at East Green-
wich ; those for the estates in the counties of Bristol and
Newport, at Bristol ; and those for the estates in the county
of Providence, at Providence ; and that the said estates be
leased to none but such as are deemed friends of the United
States.
It is further voted and resolved, that William Bradford,
Esq., be, and he is hereby, empowered to lease the said- es-
tates, agreeably to this resolution ; that he advertise the
time of leasing the same two weeks successively in the
Providence Gazette ; and that the persons who are the
highest bidders for the same, obtain sufficient sureties to the
satisfaction of the said William Bradford, or otherwise that-
said estates be again leased at public vendue, as is before
directed.
It is voted and resolved, that the sheriff for the county of
Kings be, and he is hereby, empowered and directed to sell
a certain dwelling house, now in the possession of this state,
lately belonging to Thomas Cutter, situate in North Kings-
town, at public vendue, to the highest bidder ; and that the
496 RECORDS OF THE STATE OF RHODE ISLAND [J AN.,
purchaser be empowered to remove the same from off the
land on which it now stands.
It is voted and resolved, that each of the field, commis-
sioned and staff officers, in the brigade raised by this state,
and now under the immediate command of Brigadier Gen.
Cornell, be allowed one month's pay, in addition to what is
already allowed them, as a gratuity for their past service.
It is voted and resolved, that the vote allowing the au-
ditor of accounts $4 per day, for his services, be, and the
same is hereby, repealed ; that he be employed in the said
service only during the sitting of this Assembly, or of the
council of war; and that he be allowed $11 for each day's
attendance on the said business, in full compensation for
wages and expenses.
It is voted and resolved, that His Honor the Deputy Gov-
ernor, and Mr. President Manning, be, and they are hereby,
appointed a committee to wait on the Honorable General
Assembly of the state of Connecticut, and represent to
them the distresses of this state for want of provisions ;
more especially of the unhappy persons who have left
Rhode Island ; and earnestly solicit a repeal of their act for
laying a land embargo upon provisions, so far as may re-
spect this state.
It is voted and resolved, that the act passed at the last
session of this Assembly, entitled " An act for supplying the
army within this state with forage," &c, be, and the same is
hereby, repealed.
It is voted and resolved, that His Excellency the Gov-
ernor be requested to write to the delegates of this state at
Congress, and instruct them to represent that this state,
from the loss of its trade, from the necessary decrease of
husbandry, owing to the enemy's being in the bowels of the
state, upon account of the great numbers of inhabitants who
have left Rhode Island, destitute of the necessaries of life,
and from other causes, is unable to pay so large a propor-
tion of the $15,000,000, ordered by Congress to be levied
upon the United States, in the year 1779, as they paid off
1779.] AND PROVIDENCE PLANTATIONS. 497
the tax ordered by Congress in November, 1777 ; and direct
them to use their best endeavors to have only an equitable
proportion assigned to this state.
Whereas, the committee who were appointed to prepare
the draft of a letter to the General Assembly of the state of
Connecticut, laid the same before this Assembly ; which be-
ing duly considered, —
It is voted and resolved, that the said draft be, and the
same is hereby, approved ; and that a fair copy thereof?
signed by His Excellency the Governor, be transmitted by
the committee appointed to wait on the said Assembly.
Whereas, at the June session, A. D. 1778, His Honor the
Deputy Governor, William Bradford, Esq., and Mr. Cromel
Child, were appointed a committee, to inquire into the truth
of the facts contained in the petition of George Bethune
and Martin Brimmer, respecting the estate of Thomas
Palmer ; and the said committee not having made any re-
port thereon, —
It is voted and resolved, that the said petition be referred
to the same committee ; and that they make report to this
Assembly at the next session.
It is voted and resolved, that the council of war, at their
next meeting, make inquiry into the state of the inhabitants
who came off from Rhode Island, and need relief, and direct
the committee appointed to receive donations for them, to
procure authentic lists, specifying their numbers, sexes and
ages ; and in what towns now resident ; in order that the
same may be laid before this Assembly at the next session
that such further measures may be taken for their support,
as may appear necessary.
Voted and resolved, that the following accounts be paid
out of the general treasury, viz. :
Bills Ordered to be Paid.
£ s. d.
Samuel Babcock, for valuing the negro slaves enlisting into Col. Greene's
regiment 9 12 0
Beriah Waite, for distributing public acts of Assemblj to towns 10 10 0
498 RECORDS OF THE STATE OF RHODE ISLAND [Jan.,
William Barton, of Warren, for collecting state tax 16 04 0
John Jenckes, for settling Col. Cooke's accounts 5 08 0
Appropriation for the relief of the poor of Newport 500 00 0
Capt. Ezra Ormsbee, for bounties due his company 37 6 8
Thomas Corey, for use of his horse, while acting as quartermaster 21 12 0
Mary Mathewson, for loss of house burned by Indians, on the frontier .... SO 00 0
William Channing, for expenses, and services as clerk of Assembly 17 02 1
Henry Gardner, for services while guarding prisoners 5 08 0
God save the United States of America.
The Governor of Rhode Island to the Delegates in Congress.
Warwick, January 7, 1779.
Gentlemen : — The distresses of the inhabitants on Rhode Island increase so fast that
large numbers are daily leaving the island and coming over to us. I wish we were
able to afford them that support which they deserve on every consideration ; more es-
pecially as they have now left their all for the cause of virtue and liberty. But alas,
it is totally out of our power to supply them with the necessary article of bread,
through a real scarcity of grain.
You are sensible that at the best of times, this state never raised bread-corn suffi-
cient to support its own inhabitants ; nearly one-quarter of the best plow-land is now
in possession of the enemy ; and other considerable tracts so exposed, that the occu-
piers have not dared nor been able to plant them for two years past. Added to all
this, a strict embargo from all the western and southern states.
We have had no other resources than what we have found in our own territory, and
some small quantities with which we have been furnished from the Massachusetts. It
must be spoken to their honor, that although they have many large sea-port towns to
supply of their own, they have freely permitted us to purchase provisions in their
state, without molestation.
We have repeatedly applied to the authority of the state of Connecticut, for liberty
to purchase and transport by land bread and meat for the support of the inhabitants of
this state; but have been always put off without having our request gaanted.
'Tis an express vote of our General Assembly that you lay this matter before Con-
gress, and request them, in the strongest terms, to take it up, and so far interest them-
selves in our behalf, as to have the embargoes repealed in New York and Connecticut,
as respects supplying the inhabitants of this state with provisions by land.
If some relief is not speedily granted, many of the poorer sort of inhabitants, espe-
cially those that have come off from Rhode Island, must inevitably perish for want.
We doubt not you will make a warm and spirited application to Congress on the
grievance as pointed out. Your own general knowledge of the truth of the above
facts, with others, prevents my adding any thing further at present.
You will be as speedy in your application as possible, and make return of your
success. I have the honor to be, &c,
W. GREENE.
To the Honorable the Delegates in Congress from Rhode Island.
177D.]
AND PROVIDENCE PLANTATIONS. 499
The Governor of Rhode Island to Governor Clinton of New York.
Warwick, January 7, 1779.
Sir : — The necessary article of bread is so scarce in this state, that the General As-
sembly have directed me to write to Your Excellency, requesting that the embargo
may be so tar dispensed with, as to permit flour and grain to be transported by land
from your state, for the sole purpose of feeding the inhabitants of this.
This state never produced bread-corn sufficient for the inhabitants thereof, at the
best of times ; but always imported large quantities from yours, and the other southern
states.
The enemy have been in possession of near one-third of the best plow-land in this
state, for more than two years. From the large bodies of militia that we have been
obliged to keep on duty the whole time, we have not been able to improve the lands
that we had remaining in our possessions, in the best manner. Add to all this, that
there are several thousands of the inhabitants of Rhode Island come off, that must be
supported among us ; a great part of them in necessitous circumstances.
Your Excellency will be able to judge, from what your own inhabitants suffer, how
hard the lot of those poor people must be, when I inform you that corn nor flour can-
not be purchased for money at any price whatever.
We have made repeated application to our sister state of Connecticut for them to
grant us the favor we now ask of you ; but all in vain. We have given our delegates
instructions to lay our unhappy case before Congress, and to request their interposi-
tion with your state and Connecticut for relief.
On the whole, we doubt not Your Excellency will take the earliest opportunity to
lay this request before }rour Assembly, or Executive Council, and use your influence
that our reasonable request shall be granted.
I have the honor to be,
Your Excellency's most humble servant,
WILLIAM GREENE.
To His Excellency George Clinton, Esq.
The Governor of Rhode Island to the General Assembly of
Connecticut.
State of Rhode, Island, &c., j
Providence, January 21st, 1779. \
Gentlemen : — The alarming and truly distressed situation of this state, with respect
to provision in general, but more especially that of bread, hath for a long time engaged
the attention of the Legislature. Repeated applications have been made to His Ex-
cellency Governor Trumbull, in order to obtain a repeal of your non-exportation act,
with respect to provision for the use of the inhabitants of this state, but without
effect.
We are confident that were you fully sensible of the distresses to which the in-
habitants are reduced for want of provision, that we should not have been under the
necessity of troubling you with this application.
You, gentlemen, cannot be unacquainted that this state hath ever been obliged to
her sister states for a supply of provision for the absolute subsistence of her in-
habitants.
We at no period ever growed grain sufficient for their consumption ; but more es-
pecially at this time, when we have for upwards of two years past, had the enemy in
500 RECORDS OF THE STATE OF RHODE ISLAND [FEB.,
the centre of the state; near one-third part of our best lands in their possession, and
the husbandman and laborer almost constantly upon military duty.
In July last, one-half part of all the fencible men within this state were called out
upon the expedition against Rhode Island, and continued in the field upwards of one
month, whereby great part of the first harvest of grain was entirely lost. The storm
which happened in August afterwards, together with the injury which the Indian corn
received for want of laborers, hath deprived the inhabitants of the usual quantity of
grain. Add to this, near two thousand persons, who have been driven from
Rhode Island by the enemy, are now among us, the greater part of whom subsist by
charity.
The most obdurate heart would relent to see old age and childhood, from comforta-
ble circumstances, reduced to the necessity of begging for a morsel of bread ; and
even that they cannot often obtain ; not for the want of a sympathetic feeling in the
inhabitants for their distresses, but merely from their inability to relieve them.
We have therefore appointed the Honorable Jabez Bowen, Esq., Lieutenant Gov-
ernor, and Mr. President Manning, a committee to represent our deplorable circum-
stances ; and in order that you should not entertain any suspicions that the provision
which may be brought into this state, should fall into the hands of monopolists, we re-
quest that Your Honors would grant the exportation thereof, under such restrictions as
you shall think most conducive to the general weal.
And reposing special confidence in our committee, we engage to fulfil any agrrements
which they may enter into respecting the premises ; to whom Ave refer you for a more
particular information of our distresses.
In the name and in behalf of the General Assembly,
I am, with great esteem, honorable gentlemen,
Your very humble servant,
WILLIAM GREENE.
To the General Assembly of Connecticut.
Proceedings of the General Assembly, held for the State of Rhode
Island and Providence Plantations, at East Greenwich, on the
last Monday in February, 1779.
His Excellency William Greene, Governor.
The Hon. Jabez Bowen, Deputy Governor.
It is voted and resolved, that the sheriff of the county of
Kings, or his deputy, immediately apprehend Waite Saun-
ders, Thomas Carpenter and Peleg Hoxsie, who are charged
with having carried on an illicit commerce with the inhab-
itants of New Shoreham, and bring them before this As-
sembly to answer the said complaint.
That the said sheriff, or his deputy, summon Henry Nor-
1770.] AND PROVIDENCE PLANTATIONS. 501
thup, WickeSj who lives on the farm improved by
Wm. Gorton, Robert Champlin, John Cross, Samuel Taylor,
Simon Littlefield, John Sands, John Paine, Stephen Franklin,
Ed w. Sands and Robert Congdon, to appear immediately be-
fore this Assembly, upon the penalty of £150, lawful money
each, for non-appearance, to be recovered by bill, plaint or
information, in any court of record within this state proper
to try the same ; and that His Excellency the Governor be
requested to issue warrants and summons, agreeably to this
resolution.
It is voted and resolved, that a further time of twenty
days be allowed to the delinquent towns for paying into the
general treasury the taxes heretofore assessed upon, and
yet due from them, in any of the moneys emitted by Con-
gress ; and that the said delinquent towns pay interest on
the sums due from them respectively, from the times as-
signed for the payment of the same into the general
treasury.
It is further voted and resolved, that if the said delin-
quent towns shall neglect to pay the sums due from them
respectively, with the interest, as aforesaid, within the said
term of twenty days, that the emissions of May 20, 1777,
and April 11, 1778, shall not be received in payment for
the sums which shall be due after the expiration of that
time.
Whereas, warrants have not as yet been issued by the
general treasurer to the collectors of rates of the towns of
Tiverton and Little Compton, for collecting their proportion
of the last tax ordered by this Assembly, which was owing
to the rate bills for those towns not having been delivered
to the general treasurer in season, —
It is therefore voted and resolved, that the general treas-
urer be, and he is hereby, empowered and directed to issue
warrants to the said collectors, for collecting the said taxes,
with the interest due thereon, from the 1st day of February
inst. ; and that the said collectors forthwith proceed to col-
lect and pay the same into the general treasury.
502
RECORDS OF THE STATE OF RHODE ISLAND
[Feb.
Whereas, Mr. John Updike hath been appointed by the
council of war, in pursuance of a resolution of the General
Assembly of the state of Connecticut, to purchase a quantity
of grain within that state, for the use of the inhabitants of
this state ; and hath received for that purpose £2,000, out
of the general treasury ; and whereas, the said grain ought
to be distributed to the towns in proportion to their neces-
sities, and the expense and risk of purchasing and import-
ing the same, ought to be borne by the towns which will be
benefited thereby, —
It is therefore voted and resolved, that the several towns
hereinafter mentioned, be, and they are hereby, empowered
to raise in such manner as they shall think proper, the sum
of money set against each town or any part thereof; and
that they pay the same to the said John Updike, within fif-
teen days after the rising of this Assembly, who is hereby
empowered and directed to purchase grain therewith, agree-
ably to the said resolution of the General Assembly of Con-
necticut, and distribute the same to the said towns, in pro-
portion to the sums by them respectively advanced.
Proportion of Money ordered by the General Assembly to be fur-
nished by the several Towns, for the Purchase of Grain from
Connecticut.
Providence
$43,200
East Greenwich,
7,200
Warren,
- 7,200
Bristol, -
7,200
Tiverton,
- 4,800
Little Compton,
2,400
Westerly
2,400
Charlestown,
- 3,000
North Kingstown, $2,400
Hopkinton, - - 1,800
Johnston, - 600
North Providence, - 600
Warwick - 600
Cranston, - 600
$84,000
It is further voted and resolved, that if either of the said
towns shall neglect to advance the money assigned to it, or
any part thereof, within the time limited, the town of
1779.] AND PROVIDENCE PLANTATIONS. 503
Providence be empowered to advance two-third parts ; the
town of Warren, one-sixth part; and the town of East
Greenwich, one-sixth part of such deficient sum, within six
days after the expiration of the said limited time ; and that
if the said towns, or either of them, shall neglect to advance
such deficient sum within the said six days, then the town
which shall first apply with such deficient sum, shall be
empowered to advance the same, and to receive the grain
which shall be purchased therewith, agreeably to this res-
olution.
And it is further voted and resolved, that the said John
Updike re-pay the said sum of £2,000 into the general
treasury, in any of the bills of credit emitted by Congress,
excepting the emissions of May 20, 1777, and April 11,
1778 ; and that this state be not subject to any expense at-
tending the purchasing or importing the said grain ; but
that it be borne by the towns which are to receive the
same, in proportion to the sums by them respectively ad-
vanced.
It is voted and resolved, that a tax of £90,000, lawful
money, be assessed upon the inhabitants of this state, on
the 1st day of April next, for the 'payment of the proportion
of the Continental tax for the year 1779, assigned to this
state by Congress.
That the one-half part thereof, be collected and paid into
the general treasury, on or before the 20th day of May
next, in any of the moneys heretofore emitted by the Con-
gress ; and that the other half part of the said tax be col-
lected and paid into the general treasury, on or before the
1st day of December next, in any of the bills of credit emitted
by the Congress, excepting the emissions of May 20, 1777,
and April 11, 1778.
Provided nevertheless, that the collectors of taxes be em-
powered to receive the whole of the said tax of any of the
inhabitants who may choose to pay the same before the
504 RECORDS OF THE STATE OF RHODE ISLAND [FEB.,
said 20th day of May, in the said emissions of May 20,
1777, and April 11, 1778.
And it is further voted and resolved, that the poll-tax be
sixpence upon every £ 1,000; and that the said tax be as-
sessed agreeably to the last tax apportioned upon the sev-
eral towns in this state.
And it is further voted and resolved, that the several
towns be empowered to make choice of new assessors and
collectors, for assessing and collecting the said tax ; and
that Mr. Nathaniel Mumford prepare a bill, agreeably to
this resolution.
It is voted and resolved, that the petition of Clarke Albro,
who was wounded in the action of the 29th of August, upon
Rhode Island, praying for an allowance, be referred to the
committee appointed by this Assembly to make allowances
to officers and soldiers wounded in the Continental service,
agreeably to the resolutions of Congress.
Whereas, great uneasiness hath arisen upon account of a
large purchase of corn made in the state of Connecticut, by
James Rhodes, formerly of this state, —
It is therefore voted and resolved, that His Honor the
Deputy Governor be, and he is hereby, appointed to
draught a letter to Governor Trumbull, of Connecticut, ac-
quainting him with the information received respecting the
said purchase, in order that a further inquiry may be made
concerning the same ; and that His Honor make report to
this Assembly.
It is voted and resolved, that Pardon Gray, Esq., and Mr.
Robert Stevens immediately dispose of the turpentine in
their possession, belonging to the state ; and that they ren-
der an account of the sales thereof; and also of the tur-
pentine belonging to the state heretofore disposed of by
them to this Assembly.
Whereas, John Northup, Thomas Tillinghast and John
Chapman, Esqs., presented unto this Assembly the follow-
ing report and account, to wit :
1778.] AND PROVIDENCE PLANTATIONS.
Report of the Committee appointed by the General Assembly for
Settling the Rents of the Farm Hired by Samuel Can:
We, the subscribers, being appointed by the Honorable General Assembly, a com-
mittee, to settle the accounts of the farm whereon Samuel Carr lives, lying in Exeter,
for the year 1779, and to the 25th day of March, 1780, did, in obedience to our
appointment, meet on the said farm on the 15th of January last, and viewed the
same.
We beg leave to report, as our opinions, that the said Samuel Carr have the same
farm for the term of one year, from the 25th day of March, 1779, for the rent of $105,
to be paid in the following articles of produce, at the prices set and affixed by the first
act of the General Assembly, stating the prices of goods, &c, to wit :
Good Indian corn, rye, oats, sheep's wool, flax, beef, pork, cheese.
That he do not pay all the rents in the highest or lowest of those articles.
That he pay all the rates and taxes which shall be assessed upon the said farm
during the said term.
That he lay down twelve acres of the lands now in Indian hills, and sow five pounds
of good hay-seed on each acre.
That he do not break up more than twelve acres of land.
That he carry no manure nor hay off the said farm, nor cut down more wood than
shall be necessary for the use thereof ; and that at the expiration of said term, he shall
deliver up the said farm in as good repair as he received the same.
JOHN NORTHUP,
THOMAS TILLINGHAST,
JOHN CHAPMAN.
And the premises being duly considered, —
It is voted and resolved, that the aforesaid report be, and
the same is hereby, accepted and approved.
Whereas, there is a number of persons summoned by, and
now attending this Assembly, to give evidence concerning
the illicit commerce carried on from the main to Block Is-
land and Rhode Island ; and whereas, it will be a less ex-
pense of time and trouble to this Assembly to examine them
by a committee, —
It is therefore voted and resolved, that His Honor the
Deputy Governor, Gideon Comstock, Stephen Potter, Daniel
Mowry and Rowse J. Helme, Esqs., be, and they are hereby,
appointed a committee for that purpose ; and that they
state the principal circumstances they shall discover, and
make report thereof, to this Assembly.
Whereas, Messrs. George Bethune and Martin Brimmer,
as agents and attorneys of Thomas Palmer, Esq., late of the
vol. viii. 64
506 RECORDS OF THE STATE OF RHODE ISLAND [FEB.,
state of Massachusetts Bay, now of Paramaribo, in Surinam,
have presented unto this Assembly, a petition, representing
that the said Thomas Palmer was possessed, in his own
right, of a tract of land in Bristol, in this state.
That this Assembly wrere pleased, by an order passed at
the session held in December, A. D. 1776, to direct the
sheriff of the county of Bristol to take possession of the said
estate, upon a suggestion that the said Thomas Palmer was
an enemy to the United States of America ; and that the
said Thomas Palmer, so far from being an enemy to the
United States, hath on all occasions, by an uniform conduct,
testified his friendship to them, and the great cause in which
they are engaged for the security of their rights; and
whereas, the said Thomas Palmer, being late an inhabitant
of the state of Massachusetts Bay, and having property
therein, this Assembly conceive that the Great and General
Court of that state, or the council thereof, are better ac-
quainted with the character of the said Thomas Palmer,
than this Assembly, —
It is therefore voted and resolved, that the said George
Bethune and Martin Brimmer, make application to the
General Court of the said state of Massachusetts Bay, or to
the council thereof, for proper attestations respecting the
character of the said Thomas Palmer ; and also for certifi-
cates, certifying whether or not the said state of Massachu-
setts Bay have seized the estate of the said Thomas Palmer
within their jurisdiction, or any part thereof, or laid any
prohibition on the said estate ; and if it shall appear, upon
the certificates aforesaid, being produced to the council of
Avar, for this state, that the said Thomas Palmer is not con-
sidered by the said Court of Massachusetts Bay, as a person
inimical to the United States; and that his, the said Thomas
Palmer's, estate within the state of Massachusetts Bay, hath
not been seized nor molested, that then said council of war
do pass a resolve, for putting the said Thomas Palmer, by
his attorneys, into possession of the same lands.
That the said council of war inquire what rents, &c, this
1779.] AND PROVIDENCE PLANTATIONS. 507
state have received arising upon the said estate, and give an
order upon the treasury of this state in favor of the said af>
torneys for what shall be due ; and that thereupon the said
Thomas Palmer, by his attorneys, give unto this state a full
discharge and release upon account of the premises afore-
said.
Upon application of Metcalfe Bowler, Esq., now upon the
island of Rhode Island, —
It is voted and resolved, that he be received with his
family, and permitted to reside on his estate in the town of
Providence.
It is voted and resolved, that the order of the council of
war for delivering to Capt. Cranston, of the ship Minerva, a
transport in the service of the enemy, lately wrecked on the
shores of this state, his mathematical instruments and other
effects, be, and the same is hereby, approved.
The militia laws of this state being multiplied to a very
great number, and scattered through many schedules, so
that they are in the utmost confusion, and consequently in-
sufficient to effect the good purposes for which they were
enacted, —
It is therefore voted and resolved, that Brigadier General
Varnum, and Jonathan Arnold and Adam Comstock, Esqs.,
be, and they are hereby, appointed a committee, to prepare
an act for the better disciplining, governing and exerting
the strength of the militia of this state.
That they endeavor to form one complete law, so as to
supercede all the former laws of this state, respecting the
militia ; and that they make report to this Assembly at the
session to be holden on the first Wednesday in May next, or
sooner if may be.
Whereas, Mr. Edward Kithen Walcott, of Brookline, in
the state of Massachusetts Bay, preferred a petition, and
represented unto this Assembly, that his wife is entitled to
a quarter-part of the farm in Point Judith, commonly called
the Point Farm, and prayed that the same may be delivered
to him in right of his said wife, to be holden as tenants, in
508 RECORDS OF THE STATE OF RHODE ISLAND [FEB.,
common with the state, until a division shall be made ;
and also to pay him one-quarter part of the rents thereof,
received by the state, —
It is voted and resolved, that Theodore Foster, Adam
Comstock and William Channing, Esqs., be, and they are
hereby, appointed a committee, to take the said petition
into consideration ; and that they make report to this As-
sembly, as soon as may be.
It is voted and resolved, that Mr. Richard Bush, whose
house, with almost all his substance, was burnt upon James-
town, by the enemy, and who thereupon removed to New-
port, where he resided until the day before the enemy took
possession of that place, be considered as an inhabitant of
the island of Rhode Island, and receive a proportionable
part of all grants and donations made to such of them as
have come upon the main, agreeably to the act of this As-
sembly, appointing a committee to receive donations, &c.
This Assembly being sensible of the abilities and good
conduct, as an officer, of the Honorable Major General Sul-
livan, since his taking the command of the army within this
state ; and of the active zeal with which he hath exerted
the forces under him, for the preservation of this state and
the security of its inhabitants, —
Do unanimously resolve, that His Honor the DeputyGov-
ernor, Mr. John Brown and Theodore Foster, Esq., as a com-
mittee of this Assembly, wait upon the General, and in
their names return him their sincere thanks ; and assure
him, that as they cannot entertain a doubt of his persever-
ance in such measures as may in subservience to the public
interests best promote those of this state, so they most cor-
dially wish an uninterrupted continuance of that mutual
harmony, which hath ever subsisted between the General
and this Assembly, in all such measures.
Whereas, Rowland Robinson, Esq., hath represented unto
this Assembly, that Major Franks, in July, 1778, impressed
a horse, saddle and bridle, belonging to him, by which he
hath been greatly endamaged ; and that a number of British
1779.] AND PROVIDENCE PLANTATIONS. 509
prisoners, in August last, were billeted upon him, for which
he hath received no compensation ; and thereupon prayed
this Assembly to grant him relief. —
It is therefore voted and resolved, that it be recommend-
ed to the Honorable Major General Sullivan, to cause such
redress to be made to the said Rowland Robinson, as to him
shall seem right,
Rowland Robinson, Esq., having requested this Assembly
that his son, William Robinson, may be permitted to go up-
on New Shoreham, to adjust the rents of a real estate on
the said island, belonging to him, the said Rowland Robin-
son, and to lease the same, so that he may be able to re
cover the rents in future ; and he having agreed to be
accountable for the conduct of his said son, and for his re-
turning in one month after he shall leave the main, —
It is therefore voted and resolved, that in case General
Sullivan shall think it prudent, and give his consent thereto,
the said William Robinson be permitted, under the inspec-
tion of Rowse J. Helme, Esq., to go upon Block Island, for
the purposes and upon the conditions aforesaid.
An Act for raising and equipping fifteen hundred men.
[For this act see printed schedule.]
It is voted and resolved, that a tax of <£60,000, lawful
money, be assessed upon the inhabitants of this state, to be
levied, collected, and paid into the general treasury, on or
before the 16th day of April next, in any of the bills of pub-
lic credit emitted by the Congress, excepting the emissions
of May 20, 1777, and April 11. 1778.
That the poll-tax be sixpence upon every £1,000.
That the said tax be apportioned agreeably to the appor-
tionment of the last tax assessed upon the inhabitants.
That the several towns be empowered to make choice of
new assessors and collectors of rates ; and that Mr. Na-
thaniel Mumford draught a bill accordingly.
510 RECORDS OF THE STATE OF RHODE ISLAND [FEB.,
It is voted and resolved, that the general treasurer be,
and he is hereby, empowered and directed to hire, in behalf
of this state, the sum of £20,000, lawful money, upon in-
terest, at the rate of six per centum per annum.
That he give notes for the payment of the said money,
with interest on demand ; and that the same be discharged
with the moneys that shall be first paid into the general
treasury, of the tax of £60,000, lawful money, to be as-
sessed upon the inhabitants of this state, in pursuance of a
resolution of this Assembly passed at the present session.
Whereas, an act of this Assembly was passed at the ses-
sion held in October last, for inquiring into the ratable
property of this state, and appointing a committee to take
an estimate thereof, agreeably to the said act, and no
provision is made therein for estimating gold and silver
coin, —
It is therefore voted and resolved, that gold and silver
coin be considered as plate, and appraised at its full value,
agreeably to the said act.
And it is further voted and resolved, that the committee
appointed to take said estimate, proceed upon that business
on the 1st day of April next, and complete it as soon after
that time as may be.
That for their services and expenses, while performing
the same, each of them be allowed £3 12s., lawful money,
per day ; and that they have a further allowance of their
expenses on Sundays, when absent from their families.
Mr. Benjamin Sheffield, of Charlestown, having requested
this Assembly to permit him to go upon Block Island, to
collect the rents of a real estate on that island, belonging to
him, and to lease the same, —
It is voted and resolved, that in case General Sullivan
shall think it prudent and give his consent thereto, the said
Benjamin Sheffield be permitted, under the inspection of
Col. Joseph Stanton, Jr., to go upon Block Island, for the
purpose aforesaid.
1779.] AND PROVIDENCE PLANTATIONS. 511
Both houses being joined in a grand committee, chose
the following officers to command the brigade ordered to be
raised at the present session, to wit :
Officers of the Brigade Chosen.
Ezekiel Cornell, Esq., brigadier general.
Robert Elliott, Esq., colonel of the regiment of artillery.
Archibald Crary, Esq., colonel of the first battalion of
infantry.
John Topham, Esq., colonel of the second ■ battalion of
infantry.
Josiah Flagg, Esq., lieutenant colonel of the regiment of
artillery.
Nathaniel Hawkins, Esq., lieutenant colonel of the first
battalion of infantry.
James Williams, Esq., lieutenant colonel of the second
battalion of infantry.
Christopher Manchester, Esq., major of the first battalion
of infantry.
Samuel Phillips, Esq., major of the second battalion of in-
fantry.
Officers Chosen for the several Companies in the Regiment of
Artillery.
First company — Joshua Sayer, captain ; Nathaniel Glad-
ding, captain-lieutenant ; Reuben Johnson, first lieutenant.
Second company — Gideon Westcoat, captain ; Isaac Pit/
man, captain-lieutenant ; John Remington, first lieutenant ;
Nathan Carpenter, second lieutenant.
Third company — John Garzia, captain ; William Page,
captain-lieutenant ; Oliver Corey, first lieutenant.
Fourth company — Thomas Carlile, captain; Samuel Snow,
captain-lieutenant ; Benjamin Pitts, first lieutenant.
Fifth company — John Warner, captain ; Robert Carver,
captain-lieutenant ; Squire Howe, first lieutenant.
512 RECORDS OF THE STATE OF RHODE ISLAND [FEB.
Officers Chosen for the First Battalion of Infantry.
John Carr, Caleb Carr, Thomas Allen, James Parker, Na-
than Olney and Abraham Tourtellot, captains.
William Lawless, captain-lieutenant of the colonel's com-
pany.
Philip Palmer, lieutenant of the lieutenant colonel's com-
pany.
Daniel Sheldon, lieutenant of the major's company.
Walter Channing, Caleb Matthews, James Potter, Daniel
Dexter, Peleg Simmons, Eleazer Randall and Nathaniel
Humphry, lieutenants.
Simeon Dexter, William Pachmond Wairs, Samuel Nor-
thup and Benjamin Wilcox, ensigns.
Samuel Montgomery, surgeon.
Officers Chosen for the Second Battalion of Infantry.
Benjamin Hoppin, Christopher Dyer, Benjamin West,
Alexander Thomas, Philip Traffan and John Handy,
captains.
Joseph Springer, captain-lieutenant of the colonel's com-
pany.
James Miller, lieutenant of the lieutenant colonel's com-
pany.
Barber Peckham, lieutenant of the major's company.
Charles Handy, Gabriel Allen, John Welch, Andrew
Stanton, Clarke Parker, William Helme and John Wilcox,
lieutenants.
John Miller, Jeremiah Stone, Charles Hewet, Daniel
Wall and Elias Jackson, esigns.
Stephen Wigneron, surgeon.
It is voted and resolved, that the towns which are to ad-
vance money, and receive in lieu thereof, a proportionable
part of the grain to be purchased in Connecticut, agreeably
MAJ .G EN. JOH N SULLIVAN
n ?> ' s tc/Oi
1779.] AND PROVIDENCE PLANTATIONS. -")!::)
to an act of this Assembly, be empowered to give directions
to Mr. John Updike, respecting the importation of the said
grain into this state ; and that the same may be brought
either by land, or in armed vessels, by water.
Provided, that the same be done agreeably to an act of
the General Assembly of Connecticut, made respecting the
same.
It is voted and resolved, that it be, and hereby is, recom-
mended to the Honorable Major General Sullivan, to pur-
chase and equip an armed vessel, in addition to the Pigot
galley now in the river, for the defence of this state, agree-
ably to the powers given him by Congress, in conjunction
with the General Assembly or council of war of this
state.
It is voted and resolved, that Mr. William Gorton, to
whom the farm at Point Judith, commonly called the Point
Farm, was leased the last year, be permitted to fodder his
stock upon the said farm, until the 26th day of April next ;
upon condition that he have some persons in constant readi-
ness, during the said time, to drive the said stock off the
said Point to a place of safety, in case of an approach of the
enemy.
This Assembly, having, at the session held in December
last, ordered that the non-commissioned officers and pri-
vates in the brigade raised by this state, under the com-
mand of Brigadier General Cornell, who enlisted for a
bounty of £20, should receive, as a gratuity $50, to be paid
in clothing ; part of which hath not yet been delivered, —
It is therefore voted and resolved, that the agent-clothier
immediately call upon the several regimental paymasters to
adjust their accounts ; and that he settle the balance due to
the non-commissioned officers and privates, by paying them
the same in money.
Lieutenant Colonel Pardon Gray having certified, that,
by order of Colonel Cooke, who commanded upon Rhode
Island, he took a scow, belonging to Mrs. Susanna Barker, in
the month of December, 1776, to bring the troops and bag-
414 RECORDS OF THE STATE OF RHODE ISLAND [FEB..
gage from Rhode Island, which scow hath never been re-
turned, and is now much damaged, —
It is therefore voted and resolved, that it be recom-
mended to the Honorable Major General Sullivan, to give
orders for repairing the said scow, at the expense of the
Continent.
It is voted and resolved, that the sheriff of the county of
Kings forthwith remove the wife and children of George
Wightman, who is now in the service of the enemy ; and
Thomas Haszard, of North Kingstown, with his family, to
the town of Soituate ; and William Vaughan, of North
Kingstown, with his family, to the town of Glocester.
That the said persons be confined to the said towns to
which they are to be removed ; and that if they, or either
of them, shall exceed the said limits, he, she, or they, so of-
fending, shall be immediately apprehended by the sheriff of
the county where found, and committed to jail in such
county, there to remain until further orders from this
Assembly.
It is voted and resolved, that Mr. Nathaniel Mumford, au-
ditor of accounts, complete the accounts of expenditures by
this state, for the public defence, since those last sent for-
ward to Congress, as soon as may be ; and that, upon the
completion of the said accounts, the council of war request
the Honorable Stephen Hopkins, Esq., to proceed immedi-
ately to Congress.
It is voted and resolved, that it be recommended to the
Honorable Major General Sullivan, to re-examine the ex-
cuses of those persons who were employed by Colonel
Wall, in the boat service, previous to the late expedition
to Rhode Island, for not serving their whole tour of duty ;
and that, if he shall find the excuses of all, or any of them,
insufficient, they be considered as other delinquents.
This Assembly taking into consideration the petition of
Nathaniel Briggs, representing that he hath considerable sums
of money due to him in several of the British islands, in the
West Indies ; and that he hath a large family, and is by the
1779.] AND PROVIDENCE PLANTATIONS. 515
war reduced to low circumstances, and praying to be permitted
to go to the British West Indies to collect the said money, —
Do vote and resolve, and it is voted and resolved, that
the said Nathaniel Briggs be permitted to proceed by way
of St. Eustatia, or any other neutral island, to the islands of
Barbadoes and Antigua, and to bring his effects, now in the
said islands, into either of the United States of America ;
and that he do not carry with him any provisions or mer-
chandize from the said neutral to the said British islands.
It is voted and resolved, that John Sands, Simon Ray Lit-
tlefield, Edward Sands and his wife, George Franklin,
John Paine, John Littlefied and Stephen Franklin, who
lately came from New Shoreham, be permitted to return
there in the boat they came in, and to carry with them the
plow-irons they have purchased, a pair of cart-wheels, two
setts of cart-tire, three iron bars, a parcel of wooden house-
hold furniture, a quantity of ashes ; and that Col. Christo-
pher Greene be requested to give the necessary passes.
It is voted and resolved, that Colonel Christopher Greene
be, and he is hereby, empowered to grant permission to
Thomas Dickens, with the other persons who lately came
with him from New Shoreham, to return there, and to carry
any necessaries they have purchased, which the said Chris-
topher Greene shall think will not be prejudicial to the pub-
lic interest.
Whereas, during the invasion of this state by the enemy,
it may be necessary for the safety thereof, and to prevent
any evil minded person from carrying intelligence to the
enemy, which may prove injurious to the United States, to
apprehend, from time to time, persons suspected of being
inimical to the said states, —
It is therefore voted and resolved, that His Excellency
the Governor, or His Honor the Deputy Governor, with
any two of the assistants of this state, for the time being,
be empowered to apprehend any person or persons suspect-
ed of being inimical, as aforesaid, and to order them to be
confined, or removed to any place, in such manner as they
516 RECORDS OF THE STATE OF RHODE ISLAND [FEB.,
shall think proper ; .and that such person or persons remain
confined, until discharged by this Assembly, or in the re-
cess thereof, by the council of war.
Whereas, a committee hath been appointed, by a resolu-
tion of this Assembly, at the present session, to make in-
quiry into an illicit commerce, said to have been carried on
from the main to Block Island and Rhode Island, who have
made a report to this Assembly ; from the consideration of
which, a further inquiry appears to be necessary, —
It is therefore voted and resolved, that the said commit-
tee be, and they are hereby, continued, with full power to
proceed in the said inquiry, and to apprehend and commit
such persons as they shall think proper, for trial, to either
of the jails within this state ; and that the persons who
shall be so apprehended and confined, to be tried at a supe-
rior court of judicature, court of assize and general jail de-
livery, to be holden either in the county of Providence or
Kent, as the said committee shall direct ; any law to the
contrary in any wise, notwithstanding.
Whereas, in the act of this Assembly, appointing a com-
mittee to receive donations for the relief of the distressed
inhabitants of Rhode Island, no provision is made for the re-
lief of such of the said inhabitants as reside in the states of
Massachusetts Bay and Connecticut, —
It is therefore voted and resolved, that the said commit-
tee be, and they are hereby, empowered from time to time,
to afford relief to the said inhabitants residing in the said
states of Massachusetts Bay and Connecticut, according to
their necessities.
Whereas, divers persons have deserted from the service
of the enemy, who were heretofore inhabitants and subjects
of this state, and have been suffered to go at large, in hopes
of their sincere penitence and reformation, —
It is voted and resolved, that it be, and hereby is, recom-
mended and strictly enjoined upon all civil and military of-
ficers in this state, and others the good subjects of this or
any of the United States, carefully to inspect the conduct
1779.] AND PROVIDENCE PLANTATIONS. 517
and conversation of all such persons in their neighborhood,
and if they shall discover, or have any just cause to suspect,
that such person or persons still continue inimical to the
cause and interest of the United States, that they immedi-
ately give information thereof to any of the magistrates
within this state, who are hereby fully empowered and
commanded to apprehend such person or persons, and bind
him or them over to his or their good behaviour, or commit
him or them to jail, until further orders from this Assembly,
or in the recess thereof, from the council of war.
It being suggested to this Assembly, that some of the
field officers in the county of Kings, have made composition
with delinquents, to exculpate them from the legal penalties
they were liable to for their delinquency, —
It is therefore voted and resolved, that Jeffery Wilcox,
Esq., be, and he is hereby, appointed to make examination
into the affair ; and that he make report to this Assembly,
as soon as may be.
It is voted and resolved, that William Potter, Esq., and
Mr. Enoch Haszard, be appointed a committee to receive, on
the 25th day of March next, of Mr. William Gorton, the
stock belonging to the farm on Point Judith, commonly
called the Point Farm, and deliver the same to Mr. Job
Watson, to whom the said farm is leased for the year 1779;
giving and taking receipts.
That Peter Phillips and John Northup, Esqs., be appoint-
ed a committee to receive of Col. Charles Dyer on the said
25th day of March, the stock belonging to the farm in
North Kingstown, late the property of George Rome, and
deliver it to Mr. Silas Gardner, to whom the said estate is
leased for the year 1779 ; giving and taking receipts.
And that Pardon Gray and William Richmond, Esqs., be
appointed a committee to inquire into the circumstances of
certain buildings and rails on the farm commonly called
Quacut Farm, claimed by Ebenezer Slocum, the present
tenant thereof; and if they shall appear to be the property
518 RECORDS OF THE STATE OF RHODE ISLAND [FEB.,
of the said Ebenezer Slocum, that he be permitted to appro-
priate them to his own use.
It is voted and resolved, that the sheriff of the county of
Kings immediately take possession of the real estate of
Samuel Gardner (who is now with the enemy at New-
port), lying in South Kingstown, and improved by Abijah
Babcock.
That he lease the same at public vendue, to the highest
bidder for articles of produce at the stated prices.
That William Bradford, Esq., be empowered to execute a
lease thereof, to the highest bidder ; and that no person be
permitted to bid, who is inimical to the liberties of the
United States.
It is voted and resolved, that those persons who have
come upon the main, and were known to be freemen in
either of the towns of Newport, Portsmouth, Middletown
and Jamestown, before the enemy took possession thereof,
be, and they are hereby, authorized and empowered to
meet on the third Wednesday in April next, at 10 o'clock,
in the forenoon, for the purpose of choosing general officers,
and deputies, for their respective towns, at the following
places, to wit :
Those from Newport and Middletown, in Providence.
Those from Portsmouth, at the house of Mrs. Susanna
Barker, in Tiverton.
Those from Jamestown, at the house of Mr. Matthew
Allen, in North Kingstown.
That they conduct their meetings agreeably to the for-
mer usages and practices of their respective towns ; and
that a copy of this resolve be inserted in the next Provi-
dence Gazette.
Mrs. Susanna Burlingame having represented unto this
Assembly, that her late husband, William Burlingame, was
killed in the service, at Tiverton, and had due to him at the
time of his death, the following articles of clothing, being-
part of his bounty, to wit :
1779.] AND PROVIDENCE PLANTATIONS. 519
One blanket, one shirt, one pair of shoes, one pair of
breeches, one jacket, one rifle frock, and a pair of overalls ;
and prayed that the same, or the value thereof, in money,
may be delivered to her, for the support of her chil-
dren,—
It is voted and resolved, upon due consideration, that the
agent-clothier pay unto the said Susanna Burlingame, the
amount of clothing not delivered, in money.
Esek Hopkins, Esq., who was appointed one of the com-
mittee to take an estimate of the ratable property in this
state, agreeably to the act passed at the session held in
October last, for taking a general estimate, having declined
serving, —
It is voted and resolved, that Daniel Mowry, Esq., be,
and he is hereby, appointed one of the said committee in
his stead.
It is voted and resolved, that Mr. Nathaniel Mumford,
auditor of accounts, procure a sett of books for making fair
entries of all the accounts of this state against the United
States.
That he procure a proper assistant in the business com-
mitted to his charge, whenever he shall have occasion ; and
that he make a thorough search into the secretary's office
for all the vouchers that may be lodged there, for any of
the charges against the United States, in order that they
may be properly entered and laid before the Continental
commissioners, who may be appointed by Congress to
settle the accounts of this state against the United
States.
It is voted and resolved, that the Hon. Jabez Bowen,
Esq., and Henry Ward, Esq., be, and they are hereby, ap-
pointed a committee, to draught a letter to Congress, repre-
senting the condition of this state ; its inability to defend
the same against the enemy, the necessity of raising a brig-
ade for the common defence and safety of this and the
other United States ; their inability so to do, and the ex-
520 RECORDS OF THE STATE OF RHODE ISLAND [FEB.
hausted state of their finances, owing to the neglect of our
sister states in not fulfilling the agreements entered into at
the convention of Springfield ; and request the assistance of
Congress, for money and clothing for the soldiers.
That they also write to the delegates, respecting the al-
teration of the route of the post through this state, and rep-
resent the inconveniences that will arise by his passing only
through a small corner of this state.
That they also write letters, in the most pressing terms,
to our sister states of Massachusetts Bay, Connecticut and
New Hampshire, to perforin the aforementioned agreement
entered into at Springfield.
And that the letters being approved of by His Excellency
the Governor, be signed by him, and sent with the letters
that General Sullivan shall send to Congress, and the afore-
said states, respecting the necessary measures to be taken
for the ensuing campaign.
It is voted and resolved, that the committee appointed to
adjust the accounts of the officers in Colonel Greene's bat-
talion, make report to the council of war, who are hereby
empowered to give orders on the general treasury in favor
of the said officers, for such sums as shall be due to them ;
and that the said committee immediately adjust the account
of John Singer Dexter, and give him an order for the bal-
ance on the general treasurer, who is hereby directed to pay
the same.
It is voted and resolved, that the council of war meet at
the state house in Providence, on Monday, the 8th day of
March next, at three of the clock in the afternoon, to pro-
ceed upon the business of the state.
It is voted and resolved, that the General Assembly to be
holden on the first Wednesday in May next, for the choice
of officers, and doing the other business of the state, be
holden at Providence.
Voted and resolved, that the following accounts be paid
out of the general treasury, viz. :
1779.]
AND PROVIDENCE PLANTATIONS.
Bills Ordered to he Paid.
A s. d.
Perez Richmond, for leasing .sequestered estates 7 01 0
Rev. James Maiming, for his time and expenses in going to Hartford, to
wait upon the General Assembly of the state of Connecticut, to solicit
permission to purchase grain for the use of the inhabitants of this state,
and to take off the land embargo 53 10 0
Deputy Governor Jabez Bowen, for his time and expenses in going to Hart-
ford, to purchase grain for the inhabitants of this state 63 13 0
John Northup, Thomas Tillinghast and John Chapman, as committee rela-
tive to Samuel Carr, &c 6 06 0
James Sheldon, auctioneer, for letting sequestered estates by vendue 6 00 0
Rowland Robinson, for supplying wood to the troops on Boston Neck .... 41 15 0
Job Greenman, a wounded soldier, allowance to him 31 04 0
John Northup, for currying leather, &c 21 02 0
John Potter, Jr., for services as quartermaster 41 05 0
Christopher Manchester, for injuries to his property by British troops 18 00 0
Capt. Gideon Westcott, for losses sustained by him while in service 60 00 0
Lieut. Col. Thomas Potter, Jr., for services and expenses in attending the
General Assembly 35 19 6
Joseph Hopkins, for his services and expenses in apprehending deserters
from Col. Kasson's regiment 43 02 0
William Arnold, for expenses of inquiring into the illicit commerce carried
on with Block Island 4 19 0
William Coddington, for his services as assistant clerk to the General As-
sembly 13 06 0
Capt. Elijah Lewis, for billeting fourteen soldiers , 12 12 0
" " " " six months's pay in the recruiting service 60 00 0
John Sayles, for apprehending deserters 9 00 0
William Channing, for expenses, and services as clerk of the Assembly ... 12 14 0
Arnold Stafford, for services in attending the General Assembly 12 18 0
Abraham Greene, " " " " " " 12 12 0
Jonathan Salsbury, for sundry articles delivered to the sheriff for the state
house in the county of Kent 11 10 0
Richard Fry, for materials furnished and repairs done on the state house in
Kent county 71 16 0
Public Acts Passed at the February Session of the General
Assembly.
[The following acts, passed at the February session, will be found in the printed
Schedules.]
An Act enabling the town councils of each town in the state to grant licenses for the
retailing of strong liquors, &c.
An Act enforcing an act, entitled " An act obliging persons delinquent on military
duty, in the late expedition against the enemy on Rhode Island, to pay a fine, or
perform a duty in lieu thereof," &c.
vol. viii. 66
■)ZZ
RECORDS OF THE STATE OF RHODE ISLAND [FEB.
An Act for asssessing and apportioning a rate or tax of £90,000, lawful money, upon
the inhabitants of the state.
An Act assessing and apportioning a rate or tax of £60,000, lawful money, upon the
inhabitants of the state.
God save the United States of America,
General Sullivan to the Governor of Rhode Island.
Headquarters, Providence, January 5th, 1779.
Dear Sir : — Painful as the task is to me, I find myself compelled by a sense of that
duty I owe my country, to remonstrate against an act of your Assembly, passed the
last session, most erroneously entitled " An act for supplying the army within this
state with forage, fuel, teams and horses, in cases of necessity."
This act points out one method of supplying the army with every article ; and by
implication, undoubtedly prohibits every other mode of supply. The quartermaster is
first to find out the wants of the army. Secondly, to apply to the person, who he
finds has the articles, and can spare them, without inconvenience. If the person re-
fuses to part with them, or demands an exorbitant price, he is then to apply to Your
Excellency, the Deputy Governor, an assistant or a judge of the superior court. The
delinquent is to be cited, and the quartermaster must of course attend with proper
witnesses.
The party must also attend, with his witnesses ; for by the magistrate's being required
by the act to examine into the matter, there must of course be a full hearing on both
sides ; and if after trial, it shall appear that such person is possessed of the articles and
things suggested, and can, without very great inconvenience, spare them, the court of-
ficer is to give his warrant to the military officer, empowering him to impress the
same, for the use of the army. And in one case only, this act may be dispensed with,
that is, when the enemy are actually landed, and are making incursions into the
country ; but this cannot take place, until they are completely and safely landed on
the main ; not even if their whole army was seen in boats rowing up with the river,
should they give the most convincing proofs that their designs were against Provi-
dence, citations and hearings must go on, till they have actually landed in the town.
Permit me, sir, to suppose for a moment, that I received certain intelligence in the
evening, that the enemy would land at Greenwich, Bristol or Tiverton, the next
morning, and found it necessary to remove a considerable part of the army there, to
oppose their landing. The magistrate must be appealed to, citations and hearings
must go on, until we had obtained a sufficiency of articles to enable us to inarch; and
should we be in want of forage on the route, the same mode must be pursued, the
parties heard, and the magistrate must determine upon the evidence, whether the per-
son cited, can spare the forage without great inconvenience. In doing which, he must
necessarily inquire into the quantity of forage, and the stock the person cited, has to
consume it ; for to suppose a citation to be issued, and an examination to be had, with-
out attention to the proper evidence for ascertaining the fact, is absurd and ridiculous.
To this, it may be said, that the magistrate, under such circumstances, would pro-
ceed in a more summary way, without that strict attention to the act, which it seems
to require.
To this I reply, that an arbitrary procedure in the magistrate, would be equally in-
jurious, with a similar act in an officer of the army ; and a violation of the law would
be more criminal in liim, than in any other person ; and that no sensible magistrate
would, while the act remains in force, adopt any other method but that which the acts
point out ; and upon which, I have put the most natural and legal construction.
Innumerable must be the inconveniences arising from the delays and altercations
1779.]
AND PROVIDENCE PLANTATIONS. 523
which will follow the mode pointed out by this act ; even the breaking of a wheel, laming
a horse, breaking a chain, or even the smallest article must delay a whole army, till a
magistrate is found, a process formed, a suit commenced, and a trial had ; and even
if the judgment of the magistrate should be against the delinquent, a new process is to
be issued, empowering the military officer to do what common sense, and the custom
of all armies, empowered him to do before.
Would my time, or Your Excellency's patience permit, I could point out infinite
mischiefs which must arise from this act, unfortunately calculated to clog, and not to
promote the service ; should the enemy rouse from their present state of supineness,
the inconveniences arising from this act, would appear in the most striking colors, and
probably at too late an hour prove that the consequences had not been well considered
previous to its being passed.
You will forgive me, sir, when I offer it as my opinion, that an act of such magni-
tude, which so nearly affected the army, and the posts I have in charge, ought not to
have passed, without my being consulted ; unless the Assembly supposed me totally
incapable of judging what would be most for the good of the service, or the army un-
der my command.
I have been informed that some zealous members of the Assembly are jealous of the
army ; and that some inhabitants are weak enough to suppose they are under military
law.
I should be as much alarmed if that was in fact the case, as any citizen in the state,
and should oppose it as much. I am sensible that the Assembly once empowered me
to call delinquents, who refused to obey the civil authority, to their duty. I accepted
it with reluctance ; and in executing the trust reposed in me, challenge the most mali-
cious to say that I, in any one instance, made use of the least degree of severity ; and
I cannot help expressing my surprise, that an Assembly, who found the reins of civil
government too weak to compel individuals to assist in defence of the state, should,
by an act risk the safety of the army and country, upon the obedience of those, who
had refused to defend their own possessions.
But as I have ever been a zealous advocate of the civil authority, and for the liber-
ties of mankind, I cannot bear a suspicion to the contrary ; I have ordered Col. Greene
to return Your Excellency the papers containing the names of the delinquents whom
I was to call in, and shall, as soon as possible, make report to Your Excellency of what
I have done, and must beg leave to decline doing any thing further in the matter;
though I have ever felt a happiness in assisting the civil power, I cannot consent to do
it, at the expense of my reputation as a citizen, patriot and friend to the liberties of
mankind.
I cannot in justice to the public, conclude this letter, without informing Your Excel-
lency that my troops are now without wood, and from any late acts or resolutions, no
prospect appears sufficiently satisfactory, that a supply can be had. Should the season
prove severe, and the deficiency of that article happen, which I think but too probable,
there will be but two methods for me to adopt : one is, to permit, or rather to compel
the army to remain on the ground and perish ; the other is, to dismiss the men, and
leave the post unguarded, till a more favorable season will permit their return.
I hare the honor to be, dear sir,
With the highest esteem and respect.
Your Excellency's most obedient and very humble servant,
J^O. SULLIVAN.
His Excellency Governor Greene.
-524 RECORDS OF THE STATE OF RHODE ISLAND [Fl
General Sullivan to the Governor of Rhode Island.
Providence, J unitary 16th, 1779.
Dear Sir : — From intelligence which cannot be doubted, the enemy are about to
make a descent upon the main. I think their intentions are against the Narragansett
shore.
By the embarrassments thrown upon me by the late act of Assembly, I find myself
not only incapable of making the necessary preparations for defence, but am, with
grief and pain, compelled to inform you that unless the Assembly is immediately called
for repealing the act, I shall be compelled either to violate the law or dismiss the troops
under my command, and permit them to return home.
As acting in open violation of a law, must throw contempt upon the civil power, and
open a door for numerous evils, I cannot think of adopting that measure. I therefore
in the most earnest manner, solicit your calling the Assembly immediately. In the
mean time, I beg you to order one-half the militia upon the Narragansett shore, to be
under arms every night, and posted in such places as Col. Greene shall direct; at the
same time, I wish the inhabitants to be ordered to have their stock in readiness to
drive off at a moment's warning.
I have the honor to be, with much esteem,
Your Excellency's most obedient servant,
JNO. SULLIVAN.
To His Excellency Governor Greene.
The Governor <f Rhode Island to General Washington.
State of Rhode Island, &c. ;
Providence, January 19th, 1778. (
Sir : — Since we had the honor of addressing Your Excellency by Mr. Thompson, we
received your favor of the 2d of January current, enclosing a proposition of Gen. Var-
num's for raising a battalion of negroes.*
We, in our letter of the 15th current, of which we send a duplicate, have fully rep-
resented our present circumstances, and the many difficulties we labor under, in
respect to our filling up the Continental battalions. In addition thereto, will observe,
that we have now in the state's service within the government, two battalions of in-
fantry, and a regiment of artillery who are enlisted to serve until the 16th day of
March next; and the General Assembly have ordered two battalions of infantry, and
a regiment of artilery, to be raised, to serve until the 16th of March, 1779. So that
we have raised and kept in the field, more than the proportion of men assigned us by
Congress.
The General Assembly of this state are to convene themselves on the second Mon-
day of February next, when your letters will be laid before them, and their determina-
tion respecting the same, will be immediately transmitted to Your Excellency.
I have the honor to be, &c,
NICHOLAS COOKE.
To Gen. Washington.
* For the act of the General Assembly, relating to the enlistment, &o, of negroes as sol-
dier1- in the army, see page 359, of this volume.
1779.]
AND PROVIDENCE PLANTATIONS. 525
The Governor of Rhode Island to William Ellery.
State of Rhode Island, &c. f
Providence, 26th January, 1778. $
Sir : — Your favor of the 14th ultimo, and 4th current, have come to hand. We find
that the expense of the late intended expedition against Rhode Island, hath been men-
tioned in Congress, and some doubts have arisen, whether the same ought to be Con-
tinental.
We cannot imagine that the heavy expense which hath arisen upon that iruitless at-
tempt, will be charged upon the states only, who furnished the men and the necessary
supplies ; if that is to be the case, this state is ruined, as the army rendezvoused within
it, and were chiefly supplied by us.
The expedition had been long in contemplation before the last attempt was made to
carry the same into execution.
We received a letter ftom the honorable president of Congress, dated the 16th of
April last, wherein he says : " In the present situation of the British army, it is much
to be wished, that an attack could be made upon the enemy in your state, which,
whatever success may attend it, would at least cause a diversion of their forces in
New Jersey, if it could be speedily undertaken." A resolve passed the Congress on the
same day, recommending the General Assembly of this state to attempt it, with the
assistance of the states of Massachusetts Bay and Connecticut. The state of Massa-
chusetts came into the measure, and we appointed a committee to wait upon the Gov-
ernor and Assembly of Connecticut, who went to Hartford, and had a conference with
their General Assembly ; but the situation of affairs in Connecticut, at that time, was
such, that they could not afford us sufficient aid ; and the project was laid aside.
In the beginning of September last, Col. Trumbull called upon the council of war
here, with propositions from Governor Trumbull, for undertaking a descent upon
Rhode Island. We readily acceded to the proposal, and immediately wrote to the
state of Massachusetts Bay, who concurred in the measure.
Upon the expedition being agreed upon, we sent to General Spencer, and informed
him that we would furnish him with every thing in our power, in order that the expe
dition might be terminated with success. And that nothing might be wanted therein,
we furnished the General with upwards of one thousand men more than we engaged
or expected ; and with all the military and hospital stores, teams, &c, with what money
and every thing else he required. The failure cannot be attributed to us, as you may
observe by the enclosed extracts from the court of inquiry. The causes we shall not
pretend to point out.
The letters which we received from Mr. Marchant, our delegate at Congress, frequently
mentioned that an attempt upon Rhode Island, would be attended with good consequences,
and we were stimulated to engaged in the undertaking, by the recommendation we
had received from Congress, and from motives of promoting the general good of the
United States ; and had the expedition been attended with success, as there was good
reason then to have imagined, it would have been of signal service.
We cannot, we will not entertain a doubt but what Congress will make the same a
Continental exp3nse ; for if it is not, it will at once prevent any state from exerting it-
self in the common cause.
Our treasury is so far exhausted, that notwithstanding this little state hath taxed itself
self £96,000, the year past, that we been obliged to borrow .£10,000, part of the last
tax assessed, which was to have been burnt, in order to furnish the officers with re-
cruiting money.
526 RECORDS OF THE STATE OF RHODE ISLAND [FEB.,
We expect to re-place the sum when we can get money from the Continental treas-
ury. We are making out an acoount against the Continent, and expect to complete it,
and send it forward soon.
In the interim, I am, sir, in behalf of the council of war,
Your most obedient, humble servant,
NICHOLAS COOKE.
To William Ellery, Esq.
The Governor of Rhode Island to Gen. Washington.
Providence, February 23d, 1778.
Sir : — I have been favored with Your Excellency's letter of the 3d instant, enclosing
a proposal made to you by General Varnum, for recruiting the two Continental bat-
talions raised by this state.
I laid the letter before the General Assembly at their session, on the second Monday
in this month ; who, considering the pressing necessity of filling up the Continental
army, and the peculiarly difficult circumstances of this state, which rendered it in a
manner impossible to recruit our battalions in any other way, adopted the measure.
Liberty is given to every effective slave to enter the service during the war; and
upon his passing muster, he is absolutely made free, and entitled to all the wages,
bounties and encouragements given by Congress to any soldier enlisting into their ser-
vice. The masters are allowed at the rate of .£120, for the most valuable slave ; and
in proportion to those of less value.
The number of slaves in this state is not great ; but it is generally thought that
three hundred, and upwards, will be enlisted.
I am, with great respect, sir,
Your Excellency's most obedient, humble servant,
NICHOLAS COOKE.
To Gen. Washington.
The Governor of Rhode Island to Gen. Sullivan.
Providence, March 30th, 1778.
Sir : — I am favored with yours of the 26th, informing me of your appointment to
the command of the troops in this state. I have the pleasure of informing you, that
the appointment is highly satisfactory to us, and we hope will prove equally benefi-
cial to the public, and glorious to you.
The convention at Springfield agreed that the New England governments should
furnish four thousand and fifty men, for this army, in the following proportions :
New Hampshire, three hundred ; Massachusetts Bay, fifteen hundred ; Connecticut,
seven hundred and fifty ; and Rhode Island, fifteen hundred.
The Congress, by a resolve of the 13th of January, earnestly recommended to those
states to furnish and keep up the above mentioned quotas ; copies of which have been
transmitted to the other states. We have had no troops from New Hampshire since
the 1st of January ; or from Connecticut, since the middle of this month. The time
for which the troops from Massachusetts were to serve, expires to-morrow, when every
man of them wdl leave us. We are now raising two battalions of infantry, of six
hundred men each; and one regiment of artillery, of three hundred men, for twelve
months; of which upwards of four hundred are recruited. We have also about two
hundred and forty militia upon duty in different parts of the state.
1779.]
AND PROVIDENCE PLANTATIONS. 527
The condition of this state hath been very unhappy. Frequently have we been
left in the same situation as we shall be in to-morrow. Our militia hath been kept in
service until the government is in a manner exhausted ; and unless we are better
supported by the neighboring states than formerly, we must be quite ruined by the ex-
pense of defending ourselves against the enemy, who are now three thousand strong,
upon Rhode Island, besides a great naval force.
We earnestly desire you to make the most pressing instances to the other states,
to furnish their respective quotas. I beg leave to assure you of every assistance in
the power of the state ; and that —
I am, with great respect, sir,
Your Honor's most obedient, humble servant,
NICHOLAS COOKE.
To General Sullivan.
The Governor of Rhode Island to Gen. Washington.
Providence, March 31st, 1778.
Sir: — Your Excellency wrote me on the 14th of March, 1777, that General Howe
had applied to you for the discharge of Mr. Hutchinson, who was one of the council
and secretary of Dominica, and of Governor Shirley's son, who were then prisoners
here ; and requested me to discharge them, accordingly.
You were pleased to tell me at the same time, that you did not doubt but Gen. Howe
would, on application, release any of our friends in his hands/who were not in the
military line. I immediately dismissed the young gentlemen, of which I informed
you; and also related the circumstance of their capture, and being brought into this
state. As it is probable they have escaped your memory, I beg leave to repeat them.
In April, 1776, John Chace, master of a small trading vessel, belonging to this place,
was taken by the Mercury, was kept in irons thirteen Aveeks, and afterwards entered
upon the ship's books as a pressed man, and carried to Great Britain. Capt. William
Chace, his father, commander of a private vessel of war, from this port, in the summer
following, made prize of a vessel in which the two above named young gentlemen
were passengers. With an intention that they should be made use of to redeem his
own son, he took them on board his own vessel, and brought them in ; and with that
view, they were detained, until you requested their dismission.
After acquainting Your Excellency with these circumstances, I begged the favor ofyou
to apply for Capt. John Chace's discharge. Your answer was, that you thought it rea-
sonable, would certainly make the application, and had no doubt of its being success-
ful. Here the affair rested until very lately, when Capt. Chace hearing of hisson's being
on board the Venus, in this river, renewed his application to me. Not having recourse
to your letter, I thought that the application had been made to Your Excellency by Lord
Howe, and wrote to His Lordship upon that supposition, and begged the releasement
of Capt. John Chace.
His Lordship returned me this answer : that not being conscious of having solicited
in behalf of Mr. Hutchinson and Mr. Shirley, he chose to make a further inquiry be-
fore he gave a final answer.
I would further inform you, that Capt. John Chace being very ill in consequence of
the cruel treatment he received on board the Mercury, was thrown into Chelsea hos-
pital ; where, afer some time, he partly recovered ; and by the advice of a Dr. Linor,
who proved his friend, entered on board the Venus, which was then ready to sail upon
the American station, in the capacity of a mate, as the only means of avoiding being
sent to the East Indies, or at least being put on board one of the guard-ships, from
whence his prospect of getting home, would have been very small.
528 RECORDS OF THE STATE OF RHODE ISLAND [FEB.,
I will trouble Your Excellency no further, than to add that the sufferings of Captain
Chace hath made him liable to fits, which render him unfit for the sea; and that a re-
putable family are now very unhappy upon his account. I beg the favor of Your Ex-
cellency to apply to General Howe to interest himself with His Lordship, to release
Capt. Chace, and — Am, with great respect, sir,
Your Excellency's most obedient, humble servant,
NICHOLAS COOKE.
To General "Washington.
P. S. Capt. Chace hath written to Lord Howe upon the subject. I enclose his let-
ter open, and request it may he forwarded. I have made an apology to His Lordship
for the mistake, which I also desire may be forwarded.
The Governor of Rhode Island to Lord Howe.
Providence, March 31st, 1778.
My Lord : — Having addressed a long letter to Your Lordship in behalf of Captain
John Chace, I am now to acknowledge the mistake I made. The letter was written
entirely from memory ; and I thought the application for the release of Mr. Hutchin-
son and Mr. Shirley came from Your Lordship. But upon the receipt of your letter, I
had recourse to GeneranVashington's letter to me, and find it was Gen. Howe who so-
licited for those young gentlemen. I thought this apology due to Your Lordship.
I am Your Lordship's most obedient, humble servant,
NICHOLAS COOKE.
To Lord Howe.
[Note. — The letters of Washington and others, referred to in the preceding corres-
pondence, are not among the archives of the secretary's office. J
1779.]
AND PROVIDENCE PLANTATIONS.
529
Proceedings of the General Assembly, held for the State of Rhode
Island and Providence Plantations, at Providence, on the Jirst
Wednesday in Ma//, 1779.
The following named officers, declared elected, were duly
engaged :
His Excellency William Greene, Governor.
The Hon. Jabez Bowen, Deputy Governor.
ASSISTANTS.
Joshua Babcock, Esq.,
Paul Mumford, Esq.,
John Sayles, Esq.,
Jonathan Arnold, Esq.
James Arnold, Esq.,
Gideon Comstock, Esq.
Job Randall, Esq.,
Peter Phillips, Esq.,
Robert Brown, Esq.,
Pardon Gray, Esq.
Providence.
Mr. John Brown,
Theodore Foster, Esq.,
Mr. Welcome Arnold,
Mr. David Howell.
Warwick.
Othniel Gorton, Esq.,
Thomas Holden, Esq.,
Adam Comstock, Esq.,
John Waterman, Esq.
Westerly.
Mr. Nathan Barber,
Mr. Paul Clarke.
North Kingstown.
John Northup, Esq.,
Mr. Joshua Davis.
DEPUTIES.
South Kingstown.
Mr. Samuel Babcock,
Rowse J. Heleme, Esq.
East Greenwich.
Preserved Pearce, Esq.,
Thomas Tillinghast, Esq.
Smithjield.
Mr. Andrew Waterman,
Mr. Jonathan Comstock.
Scituatc.
William West, Esq.,
Mr. Christopher Potter.
Glocester.
Mr. John Smith,
Mr. Daniel Owen.
530
RECOKDS OF THE STATE OF RHODE ISLAND
[May,
DEPUTIES.
Charleston' n.
Joseph Stanton, Jr., Esq.,
Jonathan Hazsard, Esq.
West Greenwich.
Thomas Gorton, Esq.,
Mr. Thomas Jostyn.
Coventry.
Mr. Ephraim Westcoat,
Mr. Joseph Mathewson.
Exeter.
John Chapman, Esq.,
Jeffery Wilcox, Esq.
Tiverton.
Mr. Thomas Corey.
Little Compton.
Mr. Thomas Brownell,
William Richmond, Esq.
Warren.
Mr. Cromel Child.
Cumberland.
Jeremiah Whipple, Esq.,
Mr. John Fisk.
Richmond.
Mr. Simeon Clarke,
Mr. Joseph Tefft.
Cranston.
Christopher Lippitt, Esq.
Dr. Isaac Senter.
Hopkinton.
Mr. Abel Tanner,
Jesse Maxson, Esq.
Johnston.
Mr. John Smith,
Mr. Obadiah Brown.
North Providence.
Esek Hopkins, Esq.
John Jenckes, Esq.
Barrinc/ton.
Edward Bosworth, Esq.
Samuel Allen, Esq.
The Hon. Othniel Gorton, Esq., speaker; and William
Cha nning, Esq., clerk.
Henry Ward, Esq., secretary.
William Channing, Esq., attorney general.
Joseph Clarke, Esq., general treasurer.
DELEGATES To REPRESENT THE STATE IX CONGRESS.
The Honorable Stephen Hopkins, Esq.,
The Honorable William Ellery, Esq.,
The Honorable Henry Marchant, Esq.,
The Honorable John Collins, Esq.
1778.] AND PROVIDENCE PLANTATIONS. 53l
JUSTICES OF THE SUPERIOK COURT.
Shearjashub Bourn, Esq., chief; Thomas Wells, second ;
Paul Mumford, Esq., third ; Stephen Potter, Esq., fourth ;
Gideon Comstock, Esq., fifth.
JUSTICES OF THE COURT OF COMMON PLEAS, FOR NEWPORT COUNTY.
Benjamin Underwoood, Esq., chief; William Richmond,
Esq., second ; Walter Cooke, Esq., third ; Philip Taylor,
Esq., fourth ; William Taggart, Esq., fifth.
JUSTICES OF THE COURT OF COMMON PLEAS, FOR PROVIDENCE COUNTY.
Thomas Greene, Esq., chief; Richard Steere, Esq., sec-
ond ; Rufus Hopkins, Esq., third ; Jeremiah Whipple, Esq.,
fourth ; Daniel Mowry, Jr., Esq., fifth.
JUSTICES OF THE COURT OF COMMON PLEAS, FOR BRISTOL COUNTY.
Nathaniel Fales, Esq., chief; John Child, Esq., second ;
Joseph Reynolds. Esq., third ; Josiah Humphry, Esq., fourth ;
Samuel Allen, Esq., fifth.
JUSTICES OF THE COURT OF COMMON PLEAS, FOR KENT COUNTY.
Philip Greene, Esq., chief; James Arnold, Esq., second ;
Gideon Mumford, Esq., third ; Benjamin Tillinghast, Esq.,
fourth ; Preserved Pearce, Esq., fifth.
JUDGE OF THE COURT OF ADMIRALTY.
John Foster, Esq., judge of the maritime court erected
for the trial of prize causes, within and throughout the
state.
532 RECORDS OF THE STATE OF RHODE ISLAND [MAY,
SHERIFFS OF THE SEVERAL COUNTIES.
Newport count//. Bristol county.
Jabez Champlin, Esq. Richard Smith, Esq.
Providence count)/. Kent count//.
William Rhodes, Esq. Richard Fry, Esq.
Kings count//.
Beriah Brown, Esq.
Mr. Charles Keen, inspector of steel in and throughout
the state.
FIELD OFFICERS FOR THE STATE, IN THE SEVERAL COUNTIES.
Amos Atwell, Esq., colonel, of the first regiment of militia,
in the county of Providence.
Joseph Stanton, Jr., Esq., colonel, of the first regiment of
militia, in the county of Kings.
Nathan Miller, Esq., colonel, of the regiment of militia, in
the county of Bristol.
Thomas Holden, Esq., colonel, of the first regiment of mi-
litia, in the county of Kent,
John Cooke, Esq., colonel, of the second regiment of mili-
tia, in the county of Newport.
Chad Brown, Esq., colonel, of the second regiment of mi-
litia, in the county of Providence.
Charles Dyer, Esq., colonel, of the second regiment of mi-
litia, in the county of Kings.
Archibald Kasson, Esq., colonel of the second regiment of
militia, in the county of Kent,
Simon Whipple, Esq., lieutenant colonel, of the first regi-
ment of militia, in the county of Providence.
Jesse Maxson, Esq., lieutenant colonel, of first regiment of
militia, in the county of Kings.
Peter Church, Esq., lieutenant colonel, of the regiment of
militia, in the county of Bristol.
1779.] AND PROVIDENCE PLANTATIONS. 533
Thomas Tillinghast, Esq., lieutenant colonel, of the first
regiment of militia, in the county of Kent.
John Angell, Esq., lieutenant colonel, of the second regi-
ment of militia, in the county of Providence.
Thomas Potter, Jr., Esq., lieutenant colonel, of the second
regiment of militia, in the county of Kings.
Thomas Gorton, Esq., lieutenant colonel, of the second
regiment of militia, in the county of Kent.
Richard Fenner, Jr., Esq., major, of the first regiment of
militia, in the county of Providence.
Joseph Pendleton, Esq., major, of the first regiment of mi-
litia, in the comity of Kings.
Peleg Heath, Esq., major, of the regiment of militia, in the
county of Bristol.
Job Pierce, Esq., major, of the first regiment of militia, in
the county of Kent.
Asa Kimball, Esq., major, of the second regiment of mili-
tia, in the county of Providence.
Jonathan Maxson, Esq., major, of the second regiment of
militia, in the county of Kings.
Isaac Johnson, Esq., major, of the second regiment of mi-
litia, in the county of Kent.
Officers to Command the several Trained Bands, or Companies of
Militia, within the State.
Providence. First company — Abimelech Riggs, captain ;
Hezekiah Dayton, lieutenant ; Joseph Allen, ensign.
Second company — Lewis Peck, captain ; Samuel Hamlin,
lieutenant ; Walker Harding, ensign.
Third company — Charles Keen, captain ; Seth Wheaton,
lieutenant ; Jonathan Yeates, ensign.
Fourth company — Jas. Snow, captain ; Zephaniah Brown,
lieutenant; Joseph Fuller, ensign.
Warwick. First company — Job Randall, captain ; James
Arnold, 3d, lieutenant ; James Carder, ensign.
534 RECORDS OF THE STATE OF RHODE ISLAND [May,
Second company — Squire Miller, captain ; James Jerauld,
lieutenant ; John Stafford, ensign.
Third company — Thomas Rice, son of Thomas, cap-
tain ; Anthony Holden, Jr., lieutenant ; Stukely Stafford,
ensign.
Westerly. First company — Joshua Pendleton, captain ;
Samuel Brown, lieutenant ; Oliver Lewis, ensign.
Second company — John Gavitt, captain ; Stephen Saun-
ders, lieutenant ; William Bliven, ensign.
Third company — George Stillman, captain ; Peleg Saun-
ders, lieutenant ; Asa Maxson, ensign.
Jamestown company — Edward Carr, Jr., captain ; John
Weeden, son of Daniel Weeden, Jr., lieutenant ; Samuel
Carr, ensign.
Smithfield. First company — Eber Angell, captain ; Rob-
ert Bennett, lieutenant ; Stephen Day, ensign.
Second company — Ebenezer Trask, captain; Simeon Bal-
lou, lieutenant ; Eli Read, ensign.
Third company — Daniel Mowry, 4th, captain ; Benjamin
Sheldon, lieutenant ; John Carpenter, ensign.
Scituate. First company — Jona. Knight, captain ; Angell
Sweet, lieutenant ; David Wight, ensign.
Second company — Simeon Herrendeen, captain ; George
Dorrance, lieutenant ; James Tyler, ensign.
Third company — Coomer Smith, captain ; Jabel Angell,
lieutenant ; Gideon Harris, ensign.
Fifth company — Samuel Wilbour, captain ; Thos. Field,
lieutenant ; William Potter, ensign.
Sixth company — Win. Howard, captain ; Jas. Wells, lieu-
tenant ; Samuel Perkins, ensign.
Glocester. First company — Benajah Whipple, captain ;
Richard Tucker, lieutenant ; Peter Lewis, ensign.
Third company — Abraham Windsor, captain ; Nathaniel
Wade, lieutenant ; Zebulon Wade, ensign.
Fourth company — Stephen Windsor, captain ; Isaac Ross,
lieutenant ; Israel Smith, ensign.
1770.] AND PROVIDENCE PLANTATIONS. 535
West Greenwich. First company — Samuel Hopkins, Jr.,
captain ; Joseph Niles, Jr., lieutenant ; Joseph Dolliver, Jr.,
ensign.
Second company — Benj. Gorton, captain ; Caleb Greene,
lieutenant ; Joseph Weaver, ensign.
Third company — Joseph Draper, captain ; Joseph James,
lieutenant ; Jndiah Aylesworth, Jr., ensign.
Coventry. First company — Benedict Colvin, captain;
John Colvin, lieutenant ; Joseph Brayton, ensign.
Second compairy — William Roy, captain ; William Bur-
lingame, lieutenant ; Allen Mathewson, ensign.
Third company — Langford Weaver, captain ; Samuel
Greene, Jr., lieutenant ; John Bucklin, ensign.
Fourth company — Asa Bennett, captain ; Joseph Rice,
lieutenant ; Moses Blanchard, ensign.
Bristol company — William Throop, captain ; Joseph Rey-
nolds, lieutenant ; Jonathan Diamond, ensign.
Cumberland. First company — Amaziah Weatherhead,
captain ; Jeremiah Scott, Jr., lieutenant ; Ichabod Brown,
Jr., ensign.
Second company — Amos Whipple, captain ; Wm. Ballou,
lieutenant ; Jeremiah Inman, ensign.
Cranston. First company — Anthony Potter, captain ;
Thomas Congdon, lieutenant ; George Colvin, ensign.
Second company — Frederick Williams, captain ; Nath'l
Carpenter, lieutenant ; John Harris, ensign.
Third company — William Field, captain ; Joseph Potter,
lieutenant : Neheiniah Burlingame, ensign.
Hopkinton. First company — Henry Wells, captain ; Syl-
vanus Maxson, lieutenant ; Thomas Wells, Jr., ensign.
Second company — George Thurston, Jr., captain ; Randall
Wells, lieutenant ; Joseph Thurston, ensign.
Third company — Azariah Crandall, captain ; Lebbeus Cot-
terell, lieutenant ; George Maxson, ensign.
Johnston. First company — Dan'l Sprague, captain ; Rob-
ert Potter, lieutenant ; Isaac Arnold, ensign.
536 RECORDS OF THE STATE OF RHODE ISLAND [May,
Second company — Emor Olney, captain ; Daniel Angell,
lieutenant ; Laban Waterman, ensign.
Barrington company — Viall Allin, captain ; Daniel Kinni-
cutt, lieutenant ; John Short, Jr., ensign.
Richard Fenner, Jr., Esq., lieutenant colonel of the first
regiment of militia, in the county of Providence.
Eleazer Jenckes, Esq., major of the said regiment.
It is voted and resolved, that the resignation of Captain
James Parker, of Col. Crary's regiment, in General Cornell's
brigade, be accepted.
Both houses being joined in a grand committee, recom-
mend the following gentlemen to Congress, for promotion,
to fill the vacancies in the First Continental Battalion raised
by this state, to wit :
Officers Recommended to Congress for Promotion.
Major Samuel Ward, to be lieutenant colonel ; his com-
mission to bear date May 26th, A. D. 1778.
Captain Ebenezer Flagg, to be major ; his commission to
bear the same date.
Lieut. John Holden, to be captain ; his commission to bear
date October 10th, A. D. 1777.
Lieut, Edward Slocum, to be captain ; his commission to
bear date May 26th, A. D. 1778.
Lieut. Joseph Arnold, to be captain-lieutenant ; his com-
mision to bear date June 1st, A. D. 1778.
Ensign Charles Pierce, to be lieutenant ; his commission
to bear the same date.
Ensign John Cooke, to be lieutenant ; his commission to
bear the same date.
Daniel Dexter, to be lieutenant ; his commission to be
dated from the present time.
It is voted and resolved, that Mr. Joseph Bray ton be, and
1779.] AND PROVIDENCE PLANTATIONS. 537
he is hereby, permitted to subscribe the test, ordered to be
subscribed by the inhabitants of this state.
Whereas, a number of the inhabitants of Tiverton pre-
ferred a petition, and represented unto this Assembly, that
the seining of fish in a certain pond, known by the name of
Puncatest, alias Nomquit Pond, is very detrimental to the
inhabitants of the said town in general, and more especially
to the poor thereof; and thereupon prayed this Assembly
to pass an act prohibiting the seining of fish in the aforesaid
pond ; and the premises being duly considered, —
It is voted and resolved, that the prayer of the aforego-
ing petition be granted ; that Pardon Gray, Rowse J. Helme
and Jonathan Haszard, Esqs., be, and they are hereby, ap-
pointed a committee to prepare a bill agreeably to the
pra}7er thereof; and that they make report as soon as
may be.
It is voted and resolved, that Pardon Gray, James Ar-
nold, Rowse J. Helme and Jonathan Hazsard, Esqs., be, and
they are hereby, appointed a committee, to revise and
amend the laws heretofore made, for preventing the fish
from being interrupted in their course up the rivers, within
this state ; and that they make report to this Assembly as
soon as possible.
Whereas, the following draught of a commission for the
delegates, appointed by the inhabitants of this state, to
represent them in Congress, was laid before this Assembly,
to wit :
Form of Commission to Delegates in Congress.
By His Excellency William Greene, Esquire, Governor, Captain-General, and Com-
mander-in-Chief, of, and over, the state of Rhode Island and Providence
Plantations.
To , Greeting :
Whereas, by the free vote of the freemen of the said state, on the first Wednesday
in May, instant, you, the said , was elected a delegate, to represent the
said state, for one year, in the general Congress of delegates from the thirteen United
States of America, sitting at Philadelphia, in the state of Pennsylvania, or wherever
the same may sit :
voi. rm. es
538 RECORDS OF THE STATE OF RHODE ISLAND [MAY,
I do, therefore, in the name of the Governor and Company of the said state, hereby
authorize, empower, and commissionate you, the said , in conjunction
with the other delegates that are, or may be, elected delegates of the said state, or
separately or alone, in case of the sickness, or necessary absence of the other delegates
of the said state, to reperesent the said state in general Congress; and in behalf there-
of, to join with the delegates from the other states, or major part of them, in all such
measures as shall be thought best for defending, and promoting the welfare of the said
United States, agreeably to the instructions given, or that may be given, you by the
General Assembly.
This commission, so far as it empowers you to act separately and alone, is to con-
tinue good in that respect, until the ratification of the articles of confederation by each
and every of ths thirteen United States ; upon which event, any two of the said dele-
gates, if no more than three are present, or otherwise the major part of those present,
are empowered to execute this commission; which is also to be understood to con-
tinue in force until you shall be superseded, and another delegate shall appear to take
your place,
Given under my hand, and the seal of the said state, this 8th day of May, A. D.
1779, and in the third year of the Independence of the United States of
America.
Bv His Excellency's command.
Which being duly considered, —
It is voted and resolved, that the same be, and hereby is,
approved ; and that commissions be made out under the
seal of this state, and signed by His Excellency the Gov-
ernor, agreeably to the aforementioned form.
Whereas, Edward Perry, Esq., clerk of the superior court
of judicature, &c, for the county of Kings, hath represented
unto this Assembly, that several sums of money have been
lodged in his hands for the redemption of lands, &c, mort-
gaged to sundry persons, who refuse to receive the same ;
which moneys are of the dates of May 20th, A. D. 1777, and
April 11th. A. D. 1778, emitted by Congress, and ordered
out of circulation ; and thereupon prayed this Assembly to
empower him to lodge the same with the commissioner of
the loan office in this state, for exchange. —
It is therefore voted and resolved, that the said Edward
Perry be, and he is hereby, empowered to lodge the said
moneys of the dates aforesaid, amounting to £297 7s. 6c?.,
lawful money, with the said commissioner, to be exchanged,
agreeably to a resolution of Congress, for exchanging the
same.
1779.] AND PROVIDENCE PLANTATIONS. 539
That he take a separate receipt for the sum due to each
person, specifying therein the name of such person ; which
receipts, or the mone}rs received therefor in exchange, being
ready to be delivered to the respective owners, shall dis-
charge the said Edward Perry from any suit or expense
which may be brought, or may accrue on account thereof;
and that for his reasonable expenses in transacting said
business, he make an equitable deduction from each sum, in
proportion to its quantity.
Whereas, the auditor of accounts presented unto this As-
sembly the following account and report, to wit :
Report of the Auditor of Accounts to the General Assembly, on
William Bradford's accounts relative to certain back rents due to
the state.
William Bradford, who was appointed by the General Assembly of the state of Rhode
Island, &c, March 12th, A. D. 1778, to receive the back rents due for the farms,
taken possession of by said state, in his account current with said state, Dr.
1778. • £ s. d.
April 11. To cash received of Stephen Champlin and Job Watson, at four
different times, from the date to April the 10th, A. D. 1779,
for the rent of the farm on South Kingstown, called the Point
Judith Farm, lately belonging to Samuel Sewell ; said rent
being due from March 25th, A.D. 1777, to March 25th, A. D.
1778 252 00 0
" " To cash received of David Austin, for the rent of the farm in
in Exeter, that lately belonged to said Sewell, for the same
time 27 00 0
May 9. To cash received of Stephen Boyer, for the rent of the farm
North Kingstown, that lately belonged to George Rome, for
the same time 97 10 0
" " To cash received of Charles Dyer, for the rent of the farm in
North Kingstown, that lately belonged to Doctor Moflatt, for
the same time 30 00 0
Dec. 13. To cash received of William Tyler, for the rent of the shop that
lately belonged to Jonathan Simpson, for the same time 6 00 0
1779.
Mar. 4. To cash reeeived of Perez Richmond, that he received of Ebene-
zer Slocum, for the rent of the farm in Tiverton, that lately
belonged to Andrew Oliver, of Boston, for the same time 150 00 0
" " To cash received of said Richmond, that he received of David
Cooke, for the rent of the farm in Little Compton, that lately
belonged to Joseph Scott, of Newport, for the same time 30 00 0
1778.
Oct. 5. To cash received of Thomas Gray, for the rent of the farm in
540 RECORDS OF THE STATE OF RHODE ISLAND [MAY.
1778. £ s. d.
Bristol, that lately belonged to Thomas Palmer, for the same
time ." 54 00 0
Oct. 24. To cash received of William Pearce, for the rent of the farm in
Bristol, that lately belonged to John Borland, of Boston, for
the same time 70 00 0
1779.
Mar. 15. To cash received of Cromel Child and Sylvester Child, Esqs.,
for the rent of the farm in Bristol, lately belonging to William
Vassal, of Boston, for the same time 63 18 0
" " To cash received of Cromel Child and Sylvester Child, Esqs.,
for rent of the farm in Bristol, that lately belonged to James
Carpenter, of Newport, for the same time 37 16 0
1778.
Oct. 29. < To cash received of Stephen Potter, for the rent of land in South
Kingstown, that lately belonged to John Borland, of Boston,
for the same time 13 06 0
Dec. 13. To cash received of Rowland Robinson, for the rent of land in
South Kingstown, that lately belonged to said Borland, due
from March 25, A. D. 1776, to March 25, 1777 10 13 0
£642 03 0
1778. Supra Cr.
May 19. By cash paid Joseph Clarke, as general treasurer, per receipt . . 182 08 0
Sept. 6. " " " " " " " .. 116 02 0
Nov. 5. " " " " '•' " " . . 157 03 0
1779.
Mar. 20. " " " " " " " . . 326 09 0
" " " « " " " " " . . 36 00 0
" " " " " " " " " .. 17 09 0
" " " " " Perez Richmond, Esq., by order of the Geueral
Assembly, per receipt 7 01 0
£S42 03 0
Errors excepted,
By WILLIAM BRADFORD.
N. B. Mr. James Hill settled the rent of the house and shop in Providence, lately
belonging to Gilbert Deblois, Boston, with the council of war, up to March the 25th,
A. D. 1778 ; and the rent of the farm, in Tiverton, that was leased to William Durfee,
from March the 25th, A. D. 1777, to the 25th of March, A. 1). 1778, for S78, that lately
belonged to Robert and Samuel Ilubbart, of England, remains unpaid ; said Durfee
being dead, and his estate unsettled.
Providence, May 8, 1779.
Examined the above account, and compared the vouchers with the charges, and find
them agree,, except the rents of William Tyler, Perez Richmond, Thomas Gray, Win.
Pearce and Cromel Child and Sylvester Child ; who have no leases among the pa-
pers; and the amount of the account, being £842 3s., appears, by the general treasu-
rer's receipts, to be all fully paid into the treasury.
NATHANIEL MUMFORD, Auditor.
1779.] AND PROVIDENCE PLANTATIONS. 541
And the premises being duly considered. —
It is voted and resolved, that the said report be, and the
same is hereby, accepted.
It is voted and resolved, that William Bradford, Pardon
Gray and Enoch Haszard, Esqs., be, and they are hereby,
empowered to settle with all those persons who have hired
sequestered estates of this state, from the 25th of March, A.
D. 1778, to the 25th of March, A. D. 1779, upon such terms
as they shall judge adequate to the tenor of the several leases.
That they receive of those who do not choose to pay
their rents in produce, an equivalent in money ; and
that the said William Bradford be, and he is hereby, em-
powered and directed, to bring in actions against those who
do not settle immediately with the said committee, for the re-
covery of the rents due, with damages for the non-perform-
ance of their contracts.
It is voted and resolved, that the Honorable Stephen Hop-
kins and Henry Marchant, Esqs., two of the delegates ap-
pointed to represent this state in Congress, be, and they are
hereby empowered to draw £600, each, out of the general
treasury ; and that they account for the same.
It is voted and resolved, that Henry Marchant, Esq., be,
and he is hereby, appointed to assist the attorney general
in the prosecution of certain persons charged with sup-
plying the enemy with provisions, &c, to be tried at the su-
perior court of judicature, &c, to be holden at East Green-
wich on the 24th day of May instant ; and that he delaj7
his intended journey to Congress until after the sitting of
said court.
It is voted and resolved, that the committee heretofore
appointed to inquire into the illicit trade carried on with
the enemy, by, the way of Block Island, be, and they are
hereby, directed to give Gen. Gates all the information in
their power respecting Stephen Franklin, Jr., now under re-
cognizance for his appearance before the next superior court
of judicature, court of assize, and general jail delivery, to be
holden in the county of Kings ■ in order that General Gates
542 RECORDS OF THE STATE OF RHODE ISLAND [May,
may, if he shall think proper, proceed against the said Ste-
phen Franklin as a spy ; and that immediately on his being
apprehended by order of Gen. Gates, he be discharged from
his recognizance.
It is voted and resolved, that it be, and is hereby, recom-
mended to the Hon. Major General Gates to permit Mrs.
Alice Gould to go in the first flag of truce to Rhode Island,
and that she be not permitted to return to the main until
the said island shall be in the possession of this state.
It is voted and resolved, that Beriah Brown, Jonathan
Haszard and George Pierce, Esqs., be, and they are hereby,
appointed a committee to receive the claims of the creditors
of the estate of one Samuel Knowles, who hath gone over to
the enemy ; and that they examine and adjust the same,
and make report thereof to this Assembly.
It is voted and resolved, that Mr. Welcome Arnold, for the
county of Providence ; Col. Richard Fry, for the counties of
Kings and Kent ; and Richard Smith, Esq., for the counties
of Newport and Bristol, be, and they are hereby, appointed
a committee to receive the rents of the estates leased by
this state, within the said counties respectively, from the
25th day of March, A. D. 1779, to the 25th day of March.
A. D. 1780, agreeably to the leases of said estates.
It is voted and resolved, that the town council of the town
of Westerly, be, and they are hereby, directed to take into
their possession a quantity of corn or other grain, purchased
by Stephen Franklin, Jr., of New Shoreham, which was left
in the hands of Mr. Phinehas Clarke, of said Westerly, and
dispose of the same to such of the inhabitants of this state
as may be in want thereof, on such terms as they shall think
reasonable ; and that they pay the money arising from the
sale thereof, into the general treasury.
It is voted and resolved, that the alarm companies in this
state convene themselves within the several towns to which
they belong, on the third Wednesday of April annually, and
elect their officers to command them.
That the clerk of each company return a list of the ofti-
1779.] AND PROVIDENCE PLANTATIONS. 543
cers so chosen, to the General Assembly ; and if approved
of by them, that they be commissioned by the Governor of
this state, for the time being ; any law, custom or usage to
the contrary, notwithstanding.
It is further voted and resolved, that if any of the said
alarm companies have not yet elected their officers for the
year ensuing, such companies convene for that purpose on
the day of the annual election of the town officers of the
town to which they respectively belong, elect their officers,
and report the same to this Assembly for approbation ; and
if approved of, that they be commissioned by the Governor
accordingly.
The return of the officers chosen to command the Paw-
tuxet Rangers, for the year ensuing, was read in Council,
and is as follows, to wit :
Benjamin Arnold, captain ; William P. Greene, first lieu-
tenant ; Abner Field, second lieutenant ; Israel Arnold,
ensign.
Which being duly considered, —
It is voted and resolved, that the said officers be, and they
are hereby, approved.
It is voted and resolved, that it be earnestly recommend-
ed to all those inhabitants of this state, possessed of more
grain than is necessary for the consumption of their families
until the next grain harvest, to sell the overplus at reasona-
ble prices, to such of the inhabitants of this state as stand
in need of that necessary article.
And all persons possessed of more grain than is necessary
for the consumption of their respective families, as aforesaid,
who shall not comply with this recommendation, are hereby
informed, that their refusal will occasion this Assembly to
pass such act for the distribution of grain, as the necessity
of the inhabitants may require.
It is voted and resolved, that Rowse J. Helme, Esq., be,
and he is hereby, appointed to assist the attorney general
in the prosecution of certain persons charged with sup-
plying the enemy with provisions. &c, at the superior
544 RECORDS OF THE STATE OF RHODE ISLAND [MAY,
court of judicature, &c, to be hold en on the 24th day of
May inst.
It is voted and resolved, that the committee appointed to
take an estimate of the ratable property within this state,
proceed on the said business immediately ; and that Thos.
Holden, Esq., one of the said committee, notify the other
members of this resolution, and of the time and place of
their first meet in «;.
It is voted and resolved, that the regiments of militia in
the county of Kings, be formed into a brigade.
That the regiments of militia in the county of Kent be
be formed into a brigade.
That the second regiment in the county of Newport, and
the regiment of militia in the county of Bristol, be also
formed into a brigade ; and that this resolve continue in
force, until a new arrangement shall take place by order of
this Assembly.
Both houses being joined in a grand committee, chose the
following officers, to wit :
Officer* of the Militia Chosen.
James Mitchel Varnum, Esq., major general, of the militia
of this state.
William West, Esq., brigadier general, of the brigade in
the county of Providence.
Joseph Stanton, Jr., Esq., brigadier general, of the brigade
in the county of Kings.
Nathan Miller, Esq., brigadier general, of the brigade in
the counties of Newport and Bristol.
Charles Dyer, Esq., colonel, of the second regiment of mi-
litia, in the county of Kings.
Jeffery Wilcox, Esq., lieutenant colonel, of the same
regiment.
Thomas Clarke, Esq., major, of the same regiment.
Thomas Potter, Esq., colonel, of the third regiment of mi-
litia, in the same county.
1779.] AND PROVIDENCE PLANTATIONS. 545
Jonathan Maxson, Esq., lieutenant colonel, of the same
regiment.
Stephen Babcock, Esq.. major, of the same regiment.
Officers to Command several of the Trained Bands, or Companies
of Militia, in this State.
North Kingstown. First company — Samuel Dyer, cap-
tain ; William Davis, lieutenant ; Stukely Hill, ensign.
Second company — James Albro, captain ; James Eldred,
lieutenant ; Lawrence Pierce, ensign.
Third company — John Brown, captain ; Joshua Vaughan,
lieutenant ; Beriah Waite, ensign.
South Kingstown. Second company — Barber Peckham,
captain ; Jeremiah Knowles, lieutenant ; Samuel Potter, son
of Robert, ensign.
Exeter. First company — Jonothan Bates, captain ; Dan'l
Tillinghast, lieutenant ; John Congdon, Jr., ensign.
Henry Ward, Esq., is chosen intendant of trade for the
port of Providence.
William Cooke, Esq., is chosen sheriff of the county of
Newport,
Members of the Council of War Chosen.
His Excellency William Greene, Esq., the Honorable Ja-
bez Bowen, Esq., Pardon Gray, Esq., Esek Hopkins, Esq.,
John Jenckes, Esq., John Northup, Esq., Joshua Babcock,
Esq., Jonathan J. Haszarcl, Esq., Preserved Pearce, Esq. and
Paul Mumford, Esq., are chosen members to constitute a
council of war, agreeably to an act appointing the said
council.
Nathaniel Mumford, Esq., is chosen sub-clothier for this
state, in consequence of a recommendation of Congress for
that purpose.
It is voted and resolved, that the resignation of Archi-
roL. raj. 69
-546 RECORDS OF THE STATE OF RHODE ISLAND [May.
bald Crary, Esq., as colonel, of the first battalion of in-
fantry, in General Cornell's brigade, be, and the same is
hereby, accepted.
Whereas, Israel Angell, Esq., colonel of the second bat-
talion of Continental troops, raised by this state, hath pre-
ferred a petition, and represented unto this Assembly, that
on the 23d of August, A. D. 1777, an act was passed, enti-
tling the officers of the Continental battalions of this state,
to receive the amount of one-quarter part of their wages in
provisions, at the stipulated price, which he hath never re-
ceived ; and thereupon prayed this Assembly to permit him
to draw what is now due to him, agreeably to said act ; or
to appoint a committee to settle with him ; on consideration
whereof, —
It is voted and resolved, that the council of war be, and
they are hereby, empowered to settle with the said Israel
Angell, for one-quarter part of the wages clue to him, in
provisions, and to make him a reasonable allowance for the
same, in money.
It is voted and resolved, that Adam Comstock, Rowse J.
Helme and Theodore Foster, Esqs., be, and they are hereby,
appointed a committee to prepare a bill for raising the fines
and penalties incurred for the breach of the laws of this
state ; and that they make report to this Assembly, as soon
as may be.
It is voted and resolved, that the general treasurer be,
and he is hereby, directed to receive of Col. Christopher
Greene, £22 G.s\, lawful money, in bills of public credit,
heretofore emitted by this state, and taken out of circula-
tion ; which bills were received by the said Christopher
Greene, of this state, to raise recruits for his regiment.
It is voted and resolved, that Gideon Comstock, Esq., be,
and he is hereby, appointed a member of the council of war,
in addition to those already appointed to constitute the said
council.
It is voted and resolved, that the general treasurer be,
and he is hereby, directed to lodge in the Continental loan
1779.] AND PROVIDENCE PLANTATIONS. 547
office in this state, the bills of public credit emitted by Con-
gress, of the dates of May 20th, A. D. 1777, and April the
11th, A. D. 1778, now in this state's treasury, to be ex-
changed, agreeably to a resolution of Congress ; excepting
such part of the said bills as are sufficient to discharge
the Continental tax, for the payment of which they were
collected.
It is voted and resolved, that John Reynolds, Esq., Conti-
nental agent-clothier, be, and he is hereby, appointed to
purchase clothing for the brigade ordered to be raised by
this state.
Whereas, Messrs. John Jenckes, Paul Allen and John
Brown, presented unto this Assembly a statement of the ac-
count of John Reynolds, Esq., agent-clothier for this state,
together with their report thereon, as follows, to wit :
Report of the Committee appointed by the General Assembly, to ex-
amine and settle the accounts of John Reynolds, the Agent-
Clothier.
We, the subscribers, being appointed a committee, by the Honorable General As-
sembly, to examine and settle the accounts of John Reynolds, Esq., agent-clothier to
this state, for the supplying of the Continental and state troops, and having gone
through the business, by carefully comparing all the charges and credits with the sev-
eral vouchers, do find and report a balance due to the said John Reynolds, of £1,113 14s.,
lawful money, exclusive of any commissions for doing the business, which we leave to
be mutually agreed on between the General Assembly and the said John Reynolds.
We also find, by said accounts, that there is a balance due unto the state from the
officers of the army, for clothing received from the said John Reynolds, of £1,683 lis.
id., lawful money, as by a list of their respective names, with the sums annexed.
That the clothing is charged them at about one-third what it cost ; and that there is
now in the store belonging unto this state, the several articles of clothing agreeably to
the account herewith. JOHN JENCKES,
PAUL ALLEN.
JOHN BROWN.
And due consideration being had upon the premises
aforesaid, —
It is voted and resolved, that the aforesaid report be, and
the same is hereby, accepted ; and that the sum of £2,162
lis. Id., lawful money, being the amount of the commissions
charged in the said account ; and the sum of £1,113 14s.,
548 RECORDS OF THE STATE OF RHODE ISLAND [MAT,
lawful money, being the balance due unto the said John
Reynolds, amounting in the whole to <£3,276 8s. Id., lawful
money, be paid unto the said John Reynolds, out of the gen-
eral treasury.
It is voted and resolved, that Mr. John Reynolds immedi-
ately collect the moneys due from the officers for the cloth-
ing furnished them by this state ; and that he pay the same
into the general treasury.
Whereas, Colonel Thomas Holclen presented a general
bounty abstract of one of this state's battalions of militia,
commanded by him, in the service of the United States
of America, from the Gth of August, A. D. 1778, to the
27th of the same month; both days inclusive, as followeth,
viz. :
Bounty Abstract of Col. Thomas Holdais Battalion.
• £ s.d.
First company — Capt. Pearce's bounty abstract amounts to 289 06 8
Second company — Capt. Wall's " " " 349 01 4
Third company— Capt. Arnold's " " " 184 02 0
Fourth company — Capt. Rice's " " " 337 06 8
Fifth company— Capt. Gorton's " " " 251 06 0
Sixth company — Capt. Colvin's " " " 270 13 4
Seventh company — Capt. Bennett's " " " 262 19 4
Eighth company— Capt. Hall's " " " 255 05 4
Whole amount in lawful money £2,200 00 8
THOMAS HOLDEN, Colonel.
Which being read, was referred to the auditor of ac-
counts ; who thereupon reported, that he had examined the
particular company abstracts of bounty contained in the
above regimental abstract, and compared the same with the
abstracts for wages, lodged in the paymaster general's office,
and found them agree ; and that the sum of £2,200 Sd., was
due thereon ; which being duly considered, —
It is voted and resolved, that the said Thomas Iiolden
be, and he is hereby, empowered to receive the said sum of
£2,200 Sd., out of the general treasury, for the purpose of
discharging the same.
Whereas. Colonel Thomas Holden presented a general
1779.] AND PROVIDENCE PLANTATIONS. 549
abstract of one of this state's battalions of militia, command-
ed by him, in the service of the United States, from July
24th, to August 1st, A. D. 1778, both days inclusive, as fol-
loweth, viz. :
Col. Holdetis Abstract.
£ s.d.
Capt. Pearce's abstract amounts to 60 05 4
Capt. Rhodes' " " " 7117 4
Capt. Randall's " " " 47 04 0
Capt. Johnston's " " " 48 19 4
Capt. Thos. Rice's " " " 70 16 0
Capt. Hall's " " " 43 04 0
Capt. Millard's " " " 60 18 8
Total amount in lawful money £403 04 8
THOMAS HOLDEN, Colonel.
Which being read, was referred to the auditor of ac-
counts ; who thereupon reported, that he had examined
the particular company abstracts contained in the above
regimental abstract, and found them all to agree ; and that
the sum of £403 4.5. Scl, was clue thereon ; which being duly
considered, —
It is voted and resolved, that the said Thomas Holden
be, and he is hereby, empowered to receive the said sum of
£403 4s. 8d., out of the general treasury, for the purpose of
discharging the same.
Whereas, Colonel Archibald Kasson exhibited a general
bounty abstract of one of this state's battalions of militia,
commanded by him, in the service of the United States,
from July 24th, A. D. 1778, to the 30th of the same month,
both days, inclusive, as followeth, viz. :
Col. Archibald UTasson's Bounty Abstract.
£ s.d.
Capt. Joseph Hopkins, Jr., his bounty abstract amounts to 29 00 0
Capt. Samuel Wall's " " " " 82 02 8
Capt. Joseph Hopkins's " " •' " 17 14 8
Capt. Benedict Colvin's " " " " 50 08 0
Capt. Benjamin Gorton's " " " " 41014
Capt. William Roy's " " " " 41 01 4
550 RECORDS OF THE STATE OF RHODE ISLAND [MAY,
£ s. d.
Capt. Joseph Draper, his bounty abstract amounts to 24 05 4
Capt. Langford "Weaver's " " " " " 58 16 0
Capt. Asaph Bennett's " " " " " 42 18 8
£387 08 0 '
Which being read, —
It is voted and resolved, that upon the above abstract be-
ing compared with the abstract in the paymaster general's
office, by the auditor of accounts, and certified to him to be
agreeably therewith, the said Archibald Kasson be empow-
ered to draw the above sum of £387 8s., lawful money, or
any less sum which shall be certified to be due out of the
general treasury, for the purpose aforesaid ; and thereupon
the said auditor reported that he examined the particular ab-
stract therein charged, and compared the same with the ab-
stract of wages lodged in the paymaster's office, and found
(except 176-. id., short, charged in Joseph Hopkins's, Jr., ab-
stract,) the same right ; which short charge being added,
makes the amount thereof £388 bs. id., due thereon.
Whereas, Col. Archibald Kasson exhibited a general bounty
abstract of one of this state's battalions of militia, command-
ed by him, in the service of the United States, in the second
division, in the expedition upon Rhode Island, under the
command of General Sullivan, from the 21st of August, A.
D. 1778, to the 31st of the same month, both days included>
as followeth, viz. :
Col. Kasson s Abstract.
£ s.d.
Capt. Rhodes' abstract amounts to 140 18 8
Cayt, Hopkins's " " " 178 14 0
Capt. Randall's " " " 67 18 0
Capt. Millard's " " " 155 08 0
Capt. Johnston's " " " 139 10 8
Capt. Draper's " " " 119 18 0
Capt. Roy's " " " 126 18 8
Capt. Weaver's " " " 122 14 8
£1,052 00 8
Deduct for an overcharge in Capt. Roy's abstract 5 4
£1,051 15 4
1779.] AND PROVIDENCE PLANTATIONS. 551
Which being read, —
It is voted and resolved, that upon the above abstract be-
ing compared with the abstract in the paymaster general's
office, by the auditor of accounts, and certified by him to be
agreeably therewith, the said Archibald Kasson be empow-
ered to receive the above sum of £1,052 %d., or any less
sum which shall be certified to be due, out of the general
treasury, to discharge the same ; and thereupon the auditor
reported, that he had examined the particular abstracts
therein charged, and compared the same with the abstracts
for wages lodged in the paymaster's office, and found them
agree in numbers of men, and time ; and the sum of £1,051
15*. 4r/., due thereon.
It is voted and resolved, that the attorney general be, and
he is hereb}^, directed to draught a bill, declaring the rights
of this state to vessels which may be shipwrecked upon the
shores thereof.
Voted and resolved, that the following accounts be paid
out of the general treasury, viz. :
Bills Ordered to be Paid.
£ s. d.
William Charming, for expenses, and services as clerk of the Assembly ... 26 16 0
William Compton, for services in attending the General Assembly 7 04 0
Daniel Branch, " " " " " " 17 07 0
Samuel Johnston, for his services in attending upon the General Assembly 7 04 0
God save the United States of America,
552 RECORDS OF THE STATE OF RHODE ISLAND [JUNE,
Proceedings of the General Assembly, held for the State of Rhode
Island and Providence Plantations, at South Kingstown, on the
second Monday in June, 1779.
His Excellency William Greene, Governor.
The Hon. Jabez Bowen, Deputy Governor.
Whereas, Samnel Congdon, Jabez Champlin, John Gard-
ner, Robert Champlin, Joseph Congdon, Stephen Congdon,
Jonas Clarke, Benjamin Clarke, John Allen, William Spen-
cer and Moses Kinyon, citizens and inhabitants of this state,
have been taken by the enemy from the main, and are now
prisoners with them on the island of Rhode Island ; where-
fore,—
It is voted and resolved, that it be, and it is hereby, re-
commended to Major General Gates, to effect an exchange
of the persons aforenamed, and now prisoners with the ene-
my, as aforesaid, as soon as may be ; and that he permit
Mr. George Champlin to proceed in a flag of truce, under
his direction, to Newport, to negotiate said exchange.
It is voted and resolved, that the act of this Assembly,
entitled " An act for the ease of prisoners for debt, allowing
them the liberty of the yard, upon their giving bond," be,
and the same is hereby, repealed.
That this resolve take place immediately from this
day.
That the several sheriffs within this state, be forthwith
furnished with a copy hereof; and that the secretary trans-
mit the same, accordingly.
Whereas, Mr. Esau Thayer, of Providence, in the county
of Providence, leather-dresser, preferred a petition, and rep-
resented unto this Assembly, that, at the last general elec-
tion in this state, his duty, as one of the matrosses in Col.
1778.] AND PROVIDENCE PLANTATIONS. ^^
Tillinghast's Independent Company of Artillery, obliged
him to assist in firing the cannon.
That in announcing this happy occasion, he met with the
greatest of misfortunes, in losing both his hands, by an ac-
cidental discharge of the piece, while ramming down the
cartridge ; and that his necessitous circumstances oblige
him to lay his unhappy case before this Assembly ; and
thereupon the said Esau Thayer prayed for relief; and the
premises being duly considered, —
It is voted and resolved, that £300, lawful money, be al-
lowed to the above named Esau Thayer, for his support and
maintenance for one year from the 5th day of May last
past, and to satisfy and pay the expenses which have ac-
crued by the wounds received in the above service ; and
that the said Esau Thayer be empowered to draw the same
out of the general treasury.
Whereas, a number of guns, bayonets, cartouch-boxes and
camp equipage, belonging to the towns or inhabitants of
this state, have been impressed or returned into the public
stores, or lost in the public service, —
It is therefore voted and resolved, that the colonels of the
several regiments of militia in this state, make inquiry into
the number of guns, bayonets, cartouch-boxes and camp
equipage, so impressed or lost in the public service, as
aforesaid, since the 1st clay of August, A. D. 1777 ; and to
what towns or persons the same belong.
That they also make inquiry after all arms and accoutre-
ments received frem the public, by any persons belong-
ing to their respective regiments, which are now in their
possession.
That they make report to this Assembly at the next ses-
sion ; and that copies of this vote be sent to the colonels of
the said regiments.
Whereas, it hath been represented unto this Assembly,
that Abraham Tourtellot, a captain in the battalion com-
manded by Col. Archibald Crary, hath received a considera-
554 RECORDS OF THE STATE OF RHODE ISLAND [JUNE,
ble sum of money for recruiting, and hath not accounted
for the same ; and that he hath not joined the said bat-
talion,—
It is therefore voted and resolved, that the sheriff of the
county of Providence, or his deputy, be, and he is hereby,
directed to apprehend the said Abraham Tourtellot, and
him have before His Honor the Deputy Governor, at Provi-
dence, on Tuesday next, that he may be examined respect-
ing the premises ; and that His Honor the Deputy Gov-
ernor take such further measures with the said Tourtellot,
as he shall think necessary.t
It is voted and resolved, that the resolution of this Assem-
bly, made and passed at the session held in February, A. D.
1769, approving an estimate of the ratable property within
this state, and directing the same to be a rule of taxation in
future, be, and the same is hereby, repealed.
Whereas, the Most Honorable the Continental Congress,
by a resolve of November 22d, A. D. 1777, recommended to
this state to pay into the Continental loan office, in this
state, the sum of $100,000, as its proportion of the Conti-
nental tax for the year 177S ; and whereas, this Assembly,
at the sessions held in February and June, A. D. 1778, did
make provision for the payment of $50,000, thereof ; and
no provision hath been made for the payment of the re-
mainder,—
It is therefore voted and resolved, that His Honor the Depu-
ty Governor be, and he is hereby, empowered and directed to
negotiate with, and deliver to, Joseph Clarke, Esq., keeper
of the said office in this state, a warrant drawn by His Excel-
lency the president of Congress, on the said keeper, in favor of
this state, bearing date June 26, A. D. 1778, for the sum of
$50,000, which sum will complete the payment of this
state's proportion of the said Continental tax, for the year
1778.
It is voted and resolved, that a tax of £60,000, lawful
money, be assessed upon the inhabitants of this state, to be
1779.] AND PROVIDENCE PLANTATIONS. 555
levied, collected and paid into the general treasury, on or
before the 1st day of August next,
That the poll tax be sixpence upon every £1,000.
That it be apportioned agreeably to the apportionment
of the last tax assessed upon the inhabitants of this state.
That a clause be therein inserted, directing the assessors
to assess real and personal estates at their full value, agree-
bly to the act passed at the session held in October last, for
taking a new estimate ; and that Mr. Nathaniel Mumford
draft a bill accordingly.
Whereas, Henry Sherburne, Esq., colonel in the Conti-
nental army, by his petition, represented unto this Assem-
bly, that a number of his officers and men, together with
himself, belong to the state of Rhode Island, and are consid-
ered as troops thereof; nevertheless he is unable to obtain
those allowances which other troops have received ; and
thereupon besought that himself, and those whom he repre-
sents, might be included in the several acts in favor of the
other Continental troops from this state ; and that they re-
ceive an equivalent for back allowances ; whereupon —
It is voted and resolved, that said petition be received.
That John Jenckes, Esq., Rufus Hopkins, Esq., and Mr.
Nathaniel Mumford, be a committee to ascertain the value
of the allowances heretofore received by other troops raised
by this state, and to which the officers and men under the
command of Col. Sherburne, may be entitled, agreeably to
the prayer of the said petition.
Whereas, John Jenckes, Esq., Rufus Hopkins, Esq., and
Mr. Nathaniel Mumford, who were appointed a committee,
to examine what allowances are due, for subsistence, to
Col. Henry Sherburne, his officers and men, belonging to
this state, now in actual service in the regiment under his
command, presented unto this Assembly an account of the
sums due for the said allowances, and to whom ; and the
following report thereon, to wit :
556 RECORDS OF THE STATE OF RHODE ISLAND [JUNE,
Report of the Committee appointed by the General Assembly to ex-
amine into the Allowances, dec, due to Col. Sherburne.
Agreeably to our appointment, we have examined into the allowances due to the
aforegoing officers and soldiers in Col. Henry Sherburne's regiment, and find the sums
set against each of their respective names, amounting in the whole to £3,250 5s. Gc?.,
due to them, up to the 3d day of Jauuary, 1779. JOHN JENCKES,
RUFUS HOPKINS,
South Kingstown, June 16, 1779- NATHANIEL MUMFORD.
And the premises being duly considered, —
It is voted and resolved, that the aforesaid report be, and
the same is hereby, accepted ; and that the said sum of
£3,250 5s. ftcl, lawful money, be paid to the said Henry
Sherburne, out of the general treasury, to discharge the
said allowances; deducting therefrom the sum of £1,890
13s., due from the said Henry Sherburne to the state, to
balance an account this day settled with him.
Whereas, the committee appointed to ascertain the al-
lowances due unto Col. Sherburne, his officers and men, be-
longing to this state, from the time of their engaging in the
service, until the 3d clay of January last, have made a re-
port thereof, which report hath been accented ; and the sum
reported to be due hath been ordered to said officers and
men out of the general treasury, —
It is voted and resolved, that Col. Henry Sherburne, his
said officers and men, mentioned in the report of the said
committee, be furnished in camp with the same refresh-
ments, and receive the same allowances, as are received by
the officers and men in the Continental regiments raised by
this state, from the said 3d day of January last past, until
the present time ; and that they receive in future the same
allowances as the said regiments in the Continental service
shall receive.
It is voted and resolved, that a tax of £225,000, lawful
money, be assessed upon the inhabitants of this state, for
the payment of the Continental tax, apportioned to this
state, for the year 1779, by a resolution of Congress passed
1779.] AND PROVIDENCE PLANTATIONS. 557
the 21st day of May last ; the one-half part thereof, to be
collected and paid into the general treasury of this state,
on or before the 20th day of October next ; and the other
half-part to be collected, and paid into the general treasury
aforesaid, on or before the 20th day of December next.
That said tax be apportioned agreeably to the apportion-
ment of the tax last assessed upon this state.
That the poll-tax be sixpence upon every £1,000 ; and
that Mr. Nathaniel Mumford be, and he is hereby, directed
to prepare a bill, agreeably to the former tax bills, with the
additions ordered to be made in assessing the state tax
passed the present session.
Whereas, Thomas Cranston, of North Kingstown, Esq., by
his petition, represented unto this Assembly, that he is now
confined in said North Kingstown, to the limits of one mile,
and hath been so for some time past ; and besought this As-
sembly that they would be pleased to grant him the indul-
gence of passing and re-passing into any town within this
state, he behaving himself as a friend to the country ; and
the same being duly considered, —
It is voted and resolved, that the said Thomas Cranston
be, and he is hereby, permitted for the future to pass and
re-pass to and from any town or place within this state,
which is not in the possession of the enemy, he behaving
himself as a good friend to the American cause.
It is voted and resolved, that William Richmond, Esq., be,
and he is hereby, appointed one of the committee to take a
general estimate of the ratable property within this state,
agreeably to an act of this Assembly, in the room of Philip
Taylor, Esq., who declines serving.
That said committee enter upon said business in iifteen
days after the rising of this Assembly, and complete the
same as soon as ma}T be.
That if Daniel Mowry, Jr., Esq., one of the said commit-
tee, shall decline serving, or not attend at the time above
mentioned, Arthur Fenner, Jr., Esq., be, and he is hereby,
appointed one of said committee, in his room.
558 RECORDS OF THE STATE OF RHODE ISLAND [JUNE,
And that if the said Daniel Mowry should decline serv-
ing, and said Arthur Fenner should not accept his appoint-
ment, the council of war make choice of some other person,
for the county of Providence, to serve in said committee.
It is further voted and resolved, that the resolution of
this Assembly, ascertaining the allowance to be made said
committee, for their services in taking said estimate, be, and
the same is hereby, repealed.
And it is further voted and resolved, that each of said com-
mittee be, and they are hereby, empowered to draw £3 12s-.,
lawful money, out of the general treasury, for each and
every day they are employed in said business.
That said committee, after completing the same, lay their
accounts before this Assembly, of their time and expenses
in taking said estimate ; and that thereupon this Assembly
will make a reasonable allowance to each of the said com-
mittee, for their said services.
It is voted and resolved, that Othniel Gorton, Esq., Adam
Comstock, Esq., Messrs. Thos. Bumreil, Christopher Greene,
and Mathew Manchester, be, and they are hereby, appointed
a committee, to make inquiry into the conduct of any per-
son or persons, resident on or near the shores of this state,
suspected of being inimical to the United States, and of
giving intelligence to the enemy ; and if it shall appear
unto the said committee, or a major part of them, that the
public safety requires his, her or their removal, from his,
her or their present places of residence, the said committee,
or the major part of them, are hereby empowered, by a
warrant under their hands, directed to the sheriff of the
county within which such person or persons reside, to cause
him, her or them, to be removed to such place or places
within this state, and within such limits, as said committee
shall prescribe ; and the said sheriff is hereby directed, up-
on receipt of such warrant, to remove such person or per-
sons, accordingly.
It is further voted and resolved, that if any person or
persons, who shall be removed as aforesaid, shall exceed the
1779.] AND PROVIDENCE PLANTATIONS. 559
limits within which he, she, or they, shall be confined by
order of said committee, the sheriff within whose district
such offender shall be, shall forthwith apprehend him or
her, and commit such offender to the jail within said dis-
trict, there to be confined during the pleasure of this As-
sembly.
And it is further voted and resolved, that said committee
be, and they are hereby, fully empowered and authorized to
issue warrants, directed to the several sheriffs or their depu-
ties within this state, to apprehend, and bring before said
committee for examination, such suspected person or per-
sons as shall therein be named ; which warrants, the several
sheriffs are hereby authorized and required to execute.
Whereas, Lieutenant Col. Samuel Ward gave information
unto this Assembly, that one David Briggs had, about ten
days since absconded, and gone off to the enemy.
That said David was in the service of one Jabez Rey-
nolds, of North Kingstown, who had supplied him previous
to his going, with hard money.
That the said Jabez's general character is unfriendly ;
and that there is great reason to suspect that he has har-
bored and concealed persons who have been inimical to the
states.
Whereupon, the said Jabez Reynolds being had before
this Assembly, and being duly examined touching the
premises, —
It is voted and resolved, that the said Jabez Reynolds,
with his family, be forthwith removed by the sheriff of the
county of Kings from the town of North Kingstown, into
such part of either of the towns of Scituate, Coventn^ or
Glocester, as are distant from the salt water six miles.
That the said Jabez be confined within the limits of the
town to which he shall be removed as aforesaid, dur-
ing the pleasure of this Assembly ; and if he shall exceed
the bounds thereof, without leave therefor first had and
obtained, the sheriff within whose district he may be found,
is hereby directed immediately to apprehend his body.
-560 RECORDS OF THE STATE OF RHODE ISLAND [JUNE,
and him closely to confine in the jail within the said
district, there to remain until he be discharged by this
Assembly.
And it is further resolved, that the said Jabez Reynolds
be, and remain, in the custody of the sheriff until he be re-
moved agreeably to this resolution.
Whereas, at the annual election of the United Company
of the Train of Artillery for the town of Providence, holden
agreeably to their charter, on the 26th day of April, L779,
the said company made choice of —
Daniel Tillinghast, Esq., colonel ; Levi Hall, Esq.. lieuten-
ant colonel ; Robert Taylor, Esq., major ; John Carpenter,
captain ; and Joseph Smith, lieutenant.
Which being read in the General Council of this state,
they do approve of the same.
Whereas, Col. Israel Angell represented unto this Assem-
bly, that certain articles at stated prices, to the amount of
one-sixteenth part of the officers, and one-quarter part of
the non-commissioned officers and soldiers' wages, are due
nnto his regiment, —
It is thereupon voted and resolved, that the consideration
of the same be referred to the council of war, that they may
take proper measures for furnishing said articles due to the
said regiment, as soon as may be ; and that they adjust and
settle the account of the subsistence money due unto said
regiment, to this time.
It is further voted and resolved, that the council of war
settle and adjust the account of Thomas Greene, Esq., as
state's commissary, for furnishing articles in camp.
It is voted and resolved, that His Excellency William
Greene, Esq., Governor of this state, be allowed £300 law-
ful money ; the Hon. Jabez Bowen, Esq., Deputy Governor,
£225, lawful money ; and Jos. Clarke, Esq., general treasurer
of this state, £1,250, lawful money, including their respective
salaries, for their extraordinary services in their said offices,
for the year 1778, to be paid them out of the general
treasury.
1779.] AND PROVIDENCE PLANTATIONS. 561
Whereas, the independent company, of Kingston Reds, in
South Kingstown, made a return that they had, agreeably
to their charter, made choice of —
John Waite, Esq., captain ; Nathan Taylor, Esq., first
lieutenant ; Gardner Tefft, Esq., second lieutenant ; and
Mr. Allen James, ensign.
Which being read, His Excellency the Governor doth ap-
prove thereof.
Whereas, this Assembly, at their session in February last,
ordered a brigade of fifteen hundred men, officers included,
to be raised for the defence of this state in particular, and
the United States in general, to continue in service one
year ; and whereas, the officers of the late Col. Crary's bat-
talion have many of them resigned their commissions, with
the Colonel himself, — •
It is therefore voted and resolved, that the two battalions
of infantry in said brigade be joined into one battalion, to
be commanded by Col. Topham ; and that said battalion con-
sist of nine hundred and thirty men, officers included ; to
be divided into nine companies, to be officered as in said
act is directed.
And whereas, it is of the greatest importance that said
fifteen hundred men be speedily brought into the field ; and
whereas, the enemy have given the highest proofs that
they intend prosecuting a partizan, predatory and desultory
war, —
It is therefore voted and resolved, that a corps of light
infantry be raised, as a part of the said fifteen hundred
men, consisting of four companies, of fifty-four men each,
rank and file. Three sergeants, one drummer and fifer
each ; to be commanded and led by four captains, four
lieutenants, four ensigns ; and also one adjutant, one
quartermaster and paymaster, from the line of officers;
and one surgeon, to be appointed.
And whereas, the Honorable General Gates, the Conti-
562 RECORDS OF THE STATE OF RHODE ISLAND [JUNE
nental commander-in-chief in this department, hath recom-
mended unto this Assembly the constituting a light corps of
two hundred men, and the giving the command thereof to
Col. William Barton —
It is therefore voted and resolved, in consideration of said
recommendation, and a due regard to Col. Bartons qualifi-
cations and experience in the Petit Guerre, that he be, and
he is hereby, appointed to the command of said light in-
fantry corps.
And whereas, for rendering the said corps as useful as
possible, it is expedient that the officers be peculiarly calcu-
lated for this kind of war, placing entire confidence in each
other, —
It is further voted and resolved, that Col. Barton nomi-
nate from time to time such candidates as he shall judge
proper ; who, upon being approved by this General Assem-
bly, or the council of war, shall be appointed and commis-
sioned accordingly.
And it is further voted and resolved, that said corps be
entitled to the same benefits and allowances as others of the
said fifteen hundred men.
And it is further voted and resolved, that the command
of said corps be placed immediately under the commander-
in-chief of this department, for the time being, to be dis-
posed of as he shall deem fit.
And it is further voted and resolved, that the form of en-
listment be the same as is prescribed in said act, passed in
February last, mutatis mutandis.
And it is further voted and resolved, that no officer or
non-commissioned officer, recruiting for said corps, shall be
entitled to any allowance for moneys paid to any recruit,
unless such recruit shall be previously mustered by the
colonel of said corps, assisted by a surgeon, and sworn as in
said act is provided.
Whereas, many of the inhabitants of the town of Provi-
dence preferred a petition unto this Assembly, setting forth,
1779.] AND PROVIDENCE PLANTATIONS. 563
that they have had their grain, for a number of years past,
ground at the mill owned by Mr. Samuel Thurber, Jr., in
said Providence, to general satisfaction.
That they wish to have it ground there ; but by the late
act of Assembly lessening the toll, the said Thurber cannot,
at this season of the year, keep the mill going, by reason
that the toll will not pay a man for attending it, whereby
they are put to great inconvenience and expense in sending
their grain to other mills to be ground ; and thereupon be-
sought this Assembly to take the matter into consideration ;
that the said Samuel Thurber's mill might be considered as
one of the mills in said act excepted; and he may be author-
ized to grind for the usual toll ; and the premises being duly
considered, —
It is voted and resolved, that the prayer of said petition
be, and the same is hereby, granted.
Both "houses being resolved into a grand committee, made
choice of the following officers, to wit :
Sundry Civil and Military Officers Chosen.
Enoch Hazard, Esq., ninth assistant (in the room of Rob-
ert Brown, Esq., who declines), engaged.
JUSTICES OF THE COURT OF COMMON PLEAS, FOR KINGS COUNTY.
Samuel Babcock, Esq., chief; John Northup, Esq., sec-
ond ; Carder Hazard, Esq., third ; Joseph Hoxsie, Esq.,
fourth ; Immanuel Case, Esq., fifth.
Returns of the officers chosen to command the alarm com-
panies in the several towns were read and approved, and
are as follows, to wit :
Officers clwsen to command Alarm Companies in the Several
Towns.
Warwick — Robert Rhodes, captain ; William Waterman.
564 RECORDS OF THE STATE OF RHODE ISLAND [JUNE,
first lieutenant ; Stephen Greene, second lieutenant ; Philip
Wightman, ensign.
Hopkinton — Thomas Wells, 2d, captain ; Elias Coon, first
lieutenant ; John Pierce, second lieutenant ; John Brown,
ensign.
North Providence — Thomas Olney, captain ; Charles Ol-
ney, Jr.. first lieutenant; Ichabod Jenckes, second lieuten-
ant ; John Field, ensign.
Cranston — John Burton, captain ; William Burton, first
lieutenant ; Philip Burlingame, second lieutenant ; Nathan
Carpenter, ensign.
Cumberland — Reuben Ballou, captain ; Levi Tower, lieu-
tenant ; Absalom Ballou, ensign.
Little Compton — Perez Richmond, captain ; Geo. Wood,
first lieutenant ; Gideon Simmons, second lieutenant.
North Kingstown — Joshua Peirce, captain ; Caleb Hill,
first lieutenant ; Sylvester Pierce, second lieutenant ; Chas.
Dyer, (son of Edward), ensign.
Providence — David Howell, captain ; Samuel Black, first
lieutenant ; Nathan Warner, second lieutenant ; Esek Eddy,
ensign.
Smithfield — Job Mo wry, captain ; Nehemiah Smith, first
lieutenant ; George Streeter, second lieutenant ; Abraham
Winsor, ensign.
Exeter — Walter Clarke, captain ; David Herrington, first
lieutenant ; Benjamin Gardner, ensign.
East Greenwich — Ebenzer Spencer, captain.
Thomas Hoklen, Esq., brigadier general, of the brigade of
militia in the county of Kent,
Nathaniel Church, Esq., lieutenant colonel, commandant
of the second regiment of militia in the county of New-
port.
Lemuel Bailey, Esq., major of said regiment.
Jonathan Bates, Esq., major, of the second regiment of
militia, in the county of Kings, in the room of Thos. Clarke,
who resigns.
.Teffery Wilcox, Esq., requested to resign his office of
1779.] AND PROVIDENCE PLANTATIONS. 565
lieutenant colonel, of the second regiment of militia
in the county of Kings ; and his resignation is accepted
accordingly.
The following officers were appointed to command the
militia companies, to writ :
Officers of the Militia Chosen.
Tiverton. First company — Isaac Cooke, captain ; Philip
Corey, lieutenant ; Philip Manchester, ensign.
Second company — Benjamin Borden, captain ; Daniel De-
val, lieutenant ; Benjamin Howland, ensign.
Third company — Richard Durfee, captain ; Humphrey
Shearman, lieutenant ; Thomas Durfee, ensign.
Johnston — Second company — Daniel Angell, captain, in
the room of Emor Olney, who declines ; Laban Waterman,
lieutenant ; Ezekiel Olney, ensign.
Providence. First company — Daniel Stilwell, captain, in
the room of Abimelech Riggs, who declines.
Fourth company — Joseph Fuller, captain ; Benj. Glad-
ding, lieutenant ; Joseph Snow, ensign.
North Providence company — Esek Jenckes, lieutenant ;
Benjamin Coman, ensign.
Little Compton. First company — Cornelius Briggs, cap-
tain ; William Southworth, lieutenant ; Benjamin Coe, en-
sisrn.
o
Second company — John Davis, captain ; Ichabod Wood,
lieutenant ; John Woodman, 2d, ensign.
Cumberland. Second company — Squire Fisk, lieutenant,
in the room of William Ballon, who declines ; Ariah Cook,
ensign, in the room of Jeremiah Inman, who declines.
Cranston. Third company — Joseph Potter, captain, in
the room of William Field, who declines; Nehemiah Bur-
lingame, lieutenant ; Moses Lippitt, ensign.
Scituate. First company — John Potter, ensign, in the
room of David White, who declines.
566 RECORDS OF THE STATE OF RHODE ISLAND [JUNE,
Fourth company — Isaac Hopkins, captain ; Isaac Pain,
lieutenant ; Philip Walker, ensign.
East Greenwich. First company — Micah Whitinarsh,
captain ; David Andrews, lieutenant ; Samuel Brown, en-
sign.
Second company — Allen Johnston, captain ; Mumford Da-
vis, lieutenant ; Jeremiah Place, ensign.
Hopkinton. Second company — Randall Wells, captain ;
Joseph Thurston, lieutenant ; Joseph Maxson, ensign.
Charlestown. First company — John Park, captain ; Chris-
topher Babcock, Jr., lieutenant ; John Taylor, ensign.
Second company — Beriah Lewis, captain ; Peleg Cross,
lieutenant ; Thomas Greene, Jr., ensign.
Exeter. First company — Daniel Tillinghast, captain, in
the room of Jonathan Bates, Jr., advanced ; John Congdon,
Jr., lieutenant ; George Bates, ensign.
Third company — George Wilcox, captain ; Benj. Greene,
lieutenant ; Asa Gates, ensign.
South Kingstown. First company — Timothy Lock, Jr.,
captain; Daniel Tefft, lieutenant ; William Steadman, en-
sign.
Second company — Paris Gardner, captain, in the room of
Barber Peckham, who declines ; Stephen Smith, ensign.
Richmond. First company — Richard Bailey, Jr., captain ;
John Woodmansie, lieutenant ; Joshua Webb, ensign.
Second company — John Clarke, captain ; Jeremiah Tefft,
lieutenant ; Pardon Tefft, ensign.
North Kingstown. Second company — Lawrence Pearce,
captain, in the room of James Albro, who declines ; Henry
Northup, son of Joseph, lieutenant; Bowen Card, ensign.
Benjamin Tillinghast, Esq., third justice of the inferior
court of common pleas, and general sessions of the peace, in
the county of Kent, in the room of Gideon Mumford, Esq.,
who resigned ; Preserved Pearce, Esq., fourth, and Thomas
Tillinghast, Esq., fifth justices of the same court.
Whereas, a return was made unto the General Council of
1779.] AND PROVIDENCE PLANTATIONS. 567
this state, by the company of North Providence Rangers,
that they had, agreeably to their charter, made choice of —
Hezekiah Smith, captain ; Arnold Benchley, lieutenant ;
and Joseph Benchley, ensign, of said company, for the year
ensuing.
Which being duly considered, the Council do approve of
the choice aforesaid.
Whereas, a number of the inhabitants of North Kings-
town, living upon Boston Neck, in said town, preferred a
petition unto this Assembly, setting forth, that one Stephen
Northup, formerly of said town, had given and granted a
sufficient drift-way through his lands, from the North Ferry
into the Country Road ; and that the same hath been since
shut up, and great difficulty and inconvenience thereby had
arisen unto the petitioners and others ; and prayed that a
committee might be appointed by this Assembly for exam-
ing into the subject-matter of the said petition, and that said
drift-way may be speedily opened ; whereupon, the subject-
matter of said petition being duly heard and considered, —
It is voted and resolved, that the prayer of the aforego-
ing petition be, and the same is hereby, granted.
That Peter Phillips, and John Northup, Esqs., and Mr.
Ezekiel Gardner, Jr., be, and they are hereby, appointed a
committee, to examine and lay out said drift-way, at the ex-
pense of the petitioners.
That said committee give notice to the persons through
whose land said drift-way may be laid out, of their ap-
pointment, and hear them upon the subject-matter there-
of; and that they make report of their doings to this As-
sembly, as soon as may be.
Whereas, Messrs. Ray Sands, Edward Hull, and Nathan
Gardner, Jr., preferred a petition unto this Assembly, set-
ting forth, that they have farms upon Block Island, and a
considerable time hath elapsed since they have visited the
same ; and prayed that they may have permission to go up-
on said Block Island, to receive their rents, and to inspect
what situation their respective estates are in upon said is-
568 RECORDS OF THE STATE OF RHODE ISLAND [JUNE.
land ; which aforesaid petition being taken into considera-
tion,—
It is voted and resolved, that the same be referred to Ma-
jor General Gates, and that he grant permission to the peti-
tioners to go upon Block Island, if he shall approve the
same, under such directions and restrictions as he shall pre-
scribe.
It is voted and resolved, that the second and third days
of the next session of this Assembly be, and the same are
hereby, appointed for hearing private petitions ; and that
the parties therein concerned, may have notice thereof, the
secretary is hereby directed to advertise the same, and the
time to which this Assembly shall adjourn, in the next
Providence newspapers.
It is voted and resolved, that Chandler Burlinganie be,
and he is hereby, recommended to Congress for a lieuten-
ancy in the regiment under the command of Col. Christo-
pher Greene ; and that his appointment be considered as
having taken place on the 11th instant.
Whereas, Mr. Caleb Westcot, of South Kingstown, pre-
ferred a petition unto this Assembly, setting forth that he
hath divers sums of money due unto him from the inhabit-
ants of Block Island, and prayed liberty that he might be
permitted to go upon said island, in order to settle and col-
lect the same ; which being duly considered, —
It is voted and resolved, that the consideration of the
same be referred to Major General Gates ; and that he
grant permission unto the said Caleb Westcot to go upon
Block Island, if he shall approve the same, under such di-
rections and restrictions as he shall prescribe.
An Act assessing and apportioning a tax of £22o,000, law-
ful money, upon the inhabitants of this state, for the
payment of the Continental tax apportioned to this state
for the year 1779, by a resolution of Congress passed the
21st dav ofMav last.
1771).]
\X1> PROVIDENCE PLANTATIONS. 569
Protest against the act of the General Assembly, for levying a Tax
of .£225,000 upon the State.
The subscribers, representatives for the towns of North Kingstown and South
Kingstown, beg leave to dissent from the vote of this house for proportioning the stun
of £225,000, lawful money, upon the inhabitants of this state.
1st. Because liberty and property are the essential matters that constitute a free-
man ; that as long as an individual enjoys those essential matters, he considers
himself as a member of society worthy to contend for them, and risk his all in their
preservation ; that whenever an individual, or a community at large, are deprived
thereof, they are no longer to be considered as freemen, but the abject slaves of des-
potism.
2d. Because government was instituted for the good of mankind in general ; that
they might be protected in their lives, liberty and property ; and that evil doers might
receive the reward of their works.
In order to support government, taxation is necessary ; he that receives protection,
ought to contribute to the support of his protectors; that taxation, or contribution for
the support of government, ought to be free and voluntary, and equal upon every part
which receives protection, agreeably to the abilities of the individuals or towns at
large, who receive benefit thereby ; whenever that ceases, uneasiness and discontent
prevail; and sooner or later, that government which imposes unequal assessments upon
the inhabitants, must be embroiled in trouble and difficulty.
The liberty, independence and sovereignty of this state, are what the subscribers
contend for ; they will, and do, most cheerfully give their voices for assessing upon
their constituents any sums of money that they can raise, for that important and most
desirable object, so that all and the several parts of the state do equally contribute ac-
cording to their abilities.
The tax as now proportioned, is, in their opinion, partially and unjustly assessed >
the towns which they have the honor to represent, are frontier towns, exposed to the
ravages and depredations of a cruel, savage enemy, who have since the last tax, made
an incursion into said towns of North Kingstown and South Kingstown, burned, plun-
dered and rifled their houses, stripped the women and children of their necessary
clothing, led many of their good and valuable inhabitants into captivity ; and carried
off a very considerable part of their most valuable stock of oxen, cows, sheep, &c,
Which hath greatly diminished their ratable property ; and they are not now in a con-
dition to contribute in so large a manner as heretofore, they having for a series of
years been burthened more in proportion than their sister towns.
Under these circumstances, though with great reluctance, the subscribers are com-
pelled, in order to do justice to themselves and their constituents, thus publicly and
solemnly to protest against assessing the tax in manner as aforesaid.
JOHN NORTIIUP, SAMUEL BABCOPK.
JOSHUA DAVIS, U. J. HELME.
It is voted and resolved, that the collectors of the tax of
£60,000, lawful money, ordered at the present session to be
assessed upon the inhabitants of this state, be empowered
to receive in payment of said tax, from the persons upon
whom the same is assessed, good tow cloth, fit for shirts, of
vor.. vm. 72
570 RECORDS OF THE STATE OF RHODE ISLAND [JUNE,
a yard wide, well whitened, at a price not exceeding twenty-
seven shillings per yard ; and in that proportion for good,
well whitened tow cloth of other widths ; and good brown
thread, at a price not exceeding one shilling and two-
pence per knot.
That said collectors procure, and return the same to the
agent-clothier, at Providence, as soon as may be.
That two-and-an-half per cent, be allowed them for
transacting the business ; and that the receipts of the
clothier, for the cloth and thread delivered to him as afore-
said, be received by the general treasurer in discharge for
such a part of said tax as the same shall amount to, agreea-
bly to this resolution.
Whereas, the bounty and subsistence money allowed by
the act of this Assembly, passed in February last, for raising
a brigade of fifteen hundred men, to the non-commisioned
officers and privates enlisting into the said brigade, have
been found an inadequate encouragement to men to enlist
into the said brigade, —
It is therefore voted and resolved, that each non-commis-
sioned officer and private who shall enlist into the said brig-
ade, or the light corps ordered to be raised at the present
session, shall be entitled to receive, as a bounty, £100, law-
ful money, and the same wages, clothing and subsistence
money, as are allowed in and by said act.
It is further voted and resolved, that, for the payment of
the said bounties, the general treasurer be, and he is here-
by, empowered and directed to issue four thousand promis-
sory notes, for £10, each, payable on or before the 1st day
of August next, with interest at the rate of six per cent, per
annum, and sign the same in behalf of this state.
That two thousand of the said notes be delivered to Col.
William Barton ; two sixth-parts thereof, to Col. John Top-
ham ; and the remaining sixth part to Col. Robert Elliott ;
and that the same be issued under the direction of His
Honor the Deputy Governor, as the recruiting service shall
require.
1779.] AND PROVIDENCE PLANTATIONS. 571
And it is further voted and resolved, that the said notes
be received by the collectors of taxes, in payment of the
tax of £60,000, ordered to be assessed upon the inhabitants
of this state, at the present session ; and that the general
treasurer also receive the said notes in payment of the said
tax, or otherwise discharge the same with the money col-
lected and paid into the general treasury upon the said as-
sessment ; any thing in the act assessing the said tax, to the
contrary hereof, notwithstanding.
It is voted and resolved, that Brigadier General Stanton,
Jonathan Hazard, John Northup and Preserved Pearce,
Esqs., be, and they are hereby, appointed a committee, to
wait upon the Honorable General Gates, and request him to
remove the troops, commanded by Col. Topham, from their
present station, to the western shore of this state ; provided
his arrangement will admit of relieving said troops ; as this
Assembly are fully persuaded such a measure would greatly
facilitate the recruiting service.
It is voted and resolved, that the address of Congress to
the inhabitants of the United States, be printed in hand-
bills, and sent to the several ministers of the gospel in the
respective towns within this state ; and the said ministers are
hereby requested to read the same to their respective congre-
gations, the first Sabbath after their receiving the same, im-
mediately after divine service ; also to the respective town
clerks in the several towns within this state, who are hereby
directed to communicate the same unto the inhabitants of their
respective towns, in the most expeditious manner ; and the
secretary is hereby directed to cause the said address to be
printed, and dispersed as above ordered, as soon as may be.
At the motion and request of Mr. Job Watson, to whom
the farm at Point Judith, in the possession of this state,
hath been leased for the year 1779, —
It is voted and resolved, that the said Job Watson be
discharged from said lease.
That he retain possession of so much of the land as he
hath the last spring sowed or planted with grain.
•")72 RECORDS OF THE STATE OF RHODE ISLAND [JUNE,
That upon condition he take the necessary care of the same,
and harvest and thresh the barley, and husk out and secure
the Indian corn, and pay a just proportion of the taxes assess-
ed on said farm, the present year, and deliver, as soon as fit
for a market, one-half part of all the produce of said land
which he shall improve, to such committee as the Assembly
shall appoint, the said Job Watson shall be entitled to re-
ceive the other half-part thereof in compensation of his ser-
vices and expenses in tending the aforesaid grain.
It is further voted and resolved, that Mr. John Brown be.
and he is hereby, appointed to lease the remainder of said
estate, upon the best terms he can, and make report thereof
to the council of war ; excepting one hundred acres thereof,
heretofore improved by Mr. Caleb Gardner, who is to im-
prove the same, and to pay one-tenth part of the taxes of
the whole farm, and account with the state for the profits
of the same.
Voted and resolved, that the following accounts be paid
out of the general treasury, viz. :
Bills Ordered to be Paid.
£ s.d.
llaszard Champlin, for three hundred and twenty -four pair of yarn stock-
ings, by him delivered into the agent-clothier's store, for the use of the
troops in this state 408 04 9A
Thomas Potter, for expenses of the meeting at his house, of a committee
appointed by the General Assembly, to inquire into an illicit trade
said to be carried on with the enemy, by way of Block Island 287 07 0
Preserved Pearce, for victuals, &c, for Capt. Samuel Sweet, in the service
of the state 8 06 0
Caleb Westcot, for boarding up the court house windows in Kings county . . 3 00 0
Gideon Comstock, for his expenses to and from South Kingstown, as one
of the committee for inquiring into an illicit trade 35 15 6
David Douglas, for attending upon the committee who were inquiring into
an illicit trade ol 04 0
David Potter, one of the overseers of the poor in the town of Richmond,
for boarding, nursing and attending Sarah Jones, a pauper, belonging
to Newport 99 15 •">
William Chanuing, for pleading and procuring a libel in behalf of the state,
against the ship Minerva, and sloop Miss North ; and for his expenses
in attending the General Assembly 101 08 0
Nathaniel Ilelme, for his attendance upon the General Assembly 18 00 0
Paris Gardner, for his attendance upon the General Assembly. &c "24 00 0
God save the United States of America.
1779.] AND PROVIDENCE PLANTATIONS. 573
Proceedings of the General Assembly, held for the Stale of Rhode
Island and Providence Plantations, at Providence, on the fourth
Monday in August, 1770.
His Excellency William Greene, Governor.
The Hon. Jabez Bowen, Deputy Governor.
Whereas, the council of the Narragansett tribe of Indians
preferred a petition unto this Assembly, setting forth, that
some of the said tribe, from ignorance, and others from ob-
stinacy, have leased out their lands to the white inhabitants
for long terms.
That many more of the said tribe are about leasing out
their lands for a great number of years, and moving off to
other tribes ; and those principally, who possess the best
farms.
That the said tribe have agreed to maintain their own
own poor, without any expense to the town they live in.
That those who rent their farms, as aforesaid, have the
whole rents paid down, and thereby alienate their lands for
a length ot time, without the tribe's receiving any benefit
therefrom ; and that if a stop be not speedily put to their
proceedings, the tribe will be unable to support their poor?
and many of their old people, past labor, must unavoidably
suffer ; and thereupon prayed this Assembly to take the
same into consideration, and order and direct that no per-
son of the said tribe should, for the future, have liberty of
leasing out his or her lands, without the approbation or con-
sent of the said Indian council, in conjunction with two
substantial, honest white people, to be appointed by this
Assembly, to assist, advise, and join the said Indian council,
in leasing those lands that may be thought advisable to
574 RECORDS OF THE STATE OF RHODE ISLAND [AUG.,
lease, for the advantage of the owner, and tribe in general ;
and the premises being duly considered, —
Be it enacted by this General Assembly, and by the au-
thority thereof it is hereby enacted, that from and after the
rising of this Assembly, no Indian, of the said Narragansett
tribe, shall be empowered and authorized to make any lease
or leases of his or her real estate or estates, for any term of
time whatsoever, excepting that the approbation of the In-
dian council of said tribe, in conjunction with a committee
of two persons appointed b}^ this Assembly, be first had and
obtained ; and that the present committee be the Honorable
Stejmen Hopkins, Esq., and Joseph Hoxsie, Esq. ; which ap-
probation so obtained, shall be signified in writing, upon the
back of the lease, and signed by the said council, or the ma-
jor part of them ; and also by the said committee, or one of
them.
And be it further enacted by the authority aforesaid, that
no lease or leases, made or executed otherwise than by this
act provided, shall be good or valid to any intent or pur-
pose, whatsover.
And be it further enacted by the authority aforesaid,
that the committee above mentioned, be fully authorized
and empowered to make full examination into the circum-
stances of all estates now held, or pretended to be held, by
any person whatever, under lease or leases from any of the
said tribe, and report thereon, as soon as may be.
Whereas, Mrs. Mary Brightman (whose husband hath
joined the enemy, upon Rhode Island), preferred a petition
to this Assembly, requesting that she, and her three small
children, may be permitted to go upon Rhode Island, and
to carry thereon her household furniture ; and that, until
it can be known whether the enemy will receive them, she
may have the benefit of a milk cow, which was seized upon
the desertion of her said husband, for the subsistence of
herself and children, who must otherwise greatly suffer ;
and the premises being duly considered, —
1779.] AND PROVIDENCE PLANTATIONS. 575
It is voted and resolved, that it be, and hereby is, recom-
mended unto the Honorable Major General Gates, to per-
mit the petitioner to go with her children to her hus-
band, at Newport ; and that in the mean time she have the
use of the cow lately belonging to her husband, which the
sheriff of the county of Newport is hereby directed to de-
liver her immediately.
Both houses being joined in a grand committee, the fol-
lowing return of the choice of officers for the alarm com-
pany of the town of North Kingstown was read, to wit :
Joshua Pearce, captain ; Caleb Hill, first lieutenant; Syl-
vester Pearce, second lieutenant ; Charles Dyer (son of Ed-
ward), ensign.
Who are approved of.
Benjamin Ballou, is chosen captain, of the first company
of militia of the town of Smithfield.
Whereas, William Cook, Esq., sheriff of the county of
Newport, made a report to this Assembly, that agreeably to
a resolution of the council of war, passed the 11th day of
August current, he had taken into his custody two cows,
and one hog, lately belonging to Thomas Brightman, of
Tiverton, who had deserted to the enemy upon Rhode Is-
land ; wherefore, —
It is voted and resolved, that the said sheriff forthwith
dispose of, at public sale, the fallow cow, and hog, lately be-
longing to the said Brightman ; and that he pay the money
arising from the sale thereof, into the general treasury.
Whereas, the time for the town of Bristol's paying in
their proportion of the tax of £60,000, ordered at the last
session to be assessed upon the inhabitants of this state
hath expired, and no warrant hath been received by the
collector of the said town for collecting the same, —
It is therefore voted and resolved, that the general treas-
urer be, and he is hereby, directed to issue his warrant to
the collector of taxes in the town of Bristol, to collect that
town's proportion of the said tax ; and that said warrant
576 RECORDS OF THE STATE OF RHODE ISLAND [AUG.,
be made returnable within ten days from the rising of this
Assembly.
It is voted and resolved, that William Bradford, Paul
Mumford, Adam Comstock, Christopher Lippitt, James M.
Varnuni, Esqs., and the attorney general, be, and they are
hereby, appointed a committee, to draft a bill for confiscat-
ing the estates of persons who have joined the enemy, or
otherwise manifested themselves to be inimical to the Unit-
ed States ; and that they make report to the present session
of this Assembly.
Whereas, it is represented unto this Assembly, that
Joshua Randall, of Stonington, in the state of Connecticut,
as factor for one John Rice, calling himself of Hartford, in
the state of Connecticut, aforesaid, purchased of Carder
Hazard, of South Kingstown, Esq., a negro woman, and
three children, to reside with the said John Rice, at Hart-
ford ; but that since it appeareth, that the said woman and
children were purchased to be carried to the state of North
Carolina ; wherefore, —
It is voted and resolved, that the sheriff of the county of
Kings forthwith take the said negro woman and her chil-
dren into his possession ; and that they remain with the
said sheriff until the further orders of this Assembly.
And it is further voted and resolved, that Rowse J.
Helme, David Howell and Welcome Arnold, Esqs., be, and
they are hereb}', appointed a committee to draft a bill for
preventing slaves from being purchased and carried from
this state, without the consent of such slaves ; and that
they make report to this Assembly.
Upon the petition of divers of the inhabitants of Provi-
dence, to remove Mr. Joseph Lawrence, the barrack-master,
from his place. For misconduct ; the same being duly in-
quired into, —
It is voted and resolved, that the said Joseph Lawrence
be, and he is hereby, dismissed from his post as barrack-
master.
1770.] AND PROVIDENCE PLANTATIONS. 577
It is voted and resolved, that Richard Fry, Esq., sheriff of
the county of Kent, sell at public vendue, on Tuesday next,
to the highest bidder, the wool and cheese delivered him by
Mr. Silas Gardner, for rent due for the farm leased him b}-
the state; and the said sheriff is directed not to receive any
further part of the rents due for the farms leased by the
state, until the articles of produce, which are to be received
for the same, are merchantable.
Upon application of Messrs. Thomas Townsend, Joseph
Warren and James Potter, Jr., inhabitants of Newport, who
were taken in a fishing boat, —
It is voted and resolved, that it be, and hereby is, recom-
mended to the Hon. Major General Gates, to grant permis-
sion to the said Thos. Townsend, Jos. Warren and Jas. Pot-
ter, Jr., to return to their respective families in Newport.
It is voted and resolved, that it be, and hereby is, recom-
mended to the Honorable Major General Gates, to procure
Christopher Allen, Robert Carter and Jonathan Simmon,
who were lately taken in wood-vessels ; and John Eldred,
and Pain Hammond, lately taken upon Jamestown, who- are
all held here as prisoners of war, to be exchanged for some
of our unfortunate people now prisoners with the enemy.
It is voted and resolved, that it be, and hereby is, recom-
mended to the Honorable Major General Gates, to permit
Mrs. Lucy Sands to go upon New Shoreham, to her family,
at such time and in such way as he shall think proper.
It is voted and resolved, that Esek Hopkins and John
Jenckes, Esqs., be, and they are hereby, appointed to pur-
chase the articles of refreshments allowed, and which will,
on the 1st day of September next, be due to the commis-
sioned, non-commissioned officers and soldiers in the Conti-
nental service, agreeably to the resolutions of this Assem-
bly ; and that they deliver the same to the commanding
officers of the respective regiments, to be by them distrib-
uted to the said officers and privates, agreeably to the said
resolutions.
It is further voted and resolved, that the said committee
578 RECORDS OF THE STATE OF RHODE ISLAND [AUG.,
adjust the account of refreshments furnished by Mr. Thomas
Greene ; and that they make report to this Assembly as
soon as may be.
It is voted and resolved, that Enoch Hazard, Esq., be, and
he is hereby, appointed to inspect into the conduct of the
tenants of the farms, leased by the state, in the county of
Kings ; and if the said tenants have committed, or shall
commit, any waste on the same, the said Enoch Hazard is
empowered to commence actions for such waste, to the first
court proper to try the same.
Whereas, Mr. Uriah Stone preferred a petition unto this
Assembly, setting forth that he being in the service of this
state, on board the galley Spitfire, commanded by Captain
Isaac Tyler, on the 22d day of February, A. D. 1777, had
the misfortune to lose his left arm above the elbow, by a
cannon ball from the enemy, in an engagment.
That he suffered great pain and misery from the amputa-
tion, and was a long time utterly helpless ; and that he hath
a wife and three children, and from his mutilated condition
is unable to maintain himself and iamily ; and thereupon
prayed that such allowances may be made him from the
state, as will tend to the supporting himself and family, and
making him some compensation for his misfortune ; and the
premises being duly considered, —
It is voted and resolved, that the said petition be, and the
same is hereby, referred to the committee heretofore ap-
pointed, to ascertain allowances to be made to persons
wounded in the Continental service, agreeably to a resolu-
tion of Congress ; and that they make report as soon as
may be.
It is voted and resolved, that the enlistments of the non-
commissioned officers and soldiers in the Continental ser-
vice, now in possession of the officers of the said regiments,
and of the committees in the several towns, who enlisted
the said non-commissioned officers and soldiers, be forthwith
delivered to the auditor of accounts.
Thnt the said auditor deliver to the said officers copies of
177D.] AND PROVIDENCE PLANTATIONS. 57 9
the said enlistments ; and that the commanding officers of
the regiments, and town clerks of the several towns, be fur-
nished with a copy hereof, to be communicated by them to
the officers and committees who enlisted the said non-
commissioned officers and soldiers.
Whereas, from the distressed situation of this state, a
punctual compliance with the several acts of this Assembly,
for the better subsistence of the Continental troops, has be-
come impracticable ; and whereas, great difficulties have
arisen in supplying them with articles in camp, at stated
prices ; and as furnishing them with certain specific sums
of money for their better subsistence, will prevent great
trouble and expense, —
It is therefore voted and resolved, that in lieu of all re-
freshments, subsistence money, and other allowances which
have heretofore been made them, they shall receive in fu-
ture the following sums of money per month, to wit :
Pay of the Militia Officers and Privates per Mouth.
$91 33
72 00
59 33
48 33
42 33
34 33
52 00
35 00
27 33
20 10
2G 10
20 10
25 00
It is voted and resolved, that the subsistence money of
such non-commissioned officers and soldiers as have families,
be paid to the town councils of the towns to which they re-
A colonel,
-
A lieutenant <
colonel.
A major, -
-
A captain,
-
A lieutenant,
-
An ensign,
-
A surgeon,
-
A surgeon's mate,
A sergeant,
-
A corporal,
-
A drummer.
-
A Fifer,
-
Each private.
-
580 RECORDS OF THE STATE OF RHODE ISLAND [AUG.,
spectively belong, for the better maintenance of the fami-
lies of the said non-commissioned officers and soldiers.
Provided always, that snch non-commissioned officers and
soldiers, who shall be recommended by some one field offi-
cer of his regiment for that purpose, shall, if he choose, re-
ceive the subsistence money himself.
It is further voted and resolved, that this act shall not ex-
tend to any non-commissioned officer or soldier, who hath
been heretofore a slave, and became free in consequence of
his enlisting into the service.
It is further voted and resolved, that one-and-an-half per
cent, be allowed and paid to the town councils out of
the general treasury, for transacting the aforementioned
business.
It is further voted and resolved, that all acts heretofore
made, for the better subsistence of said troops, be, and they
are hereby, repealed ; and that a copy of this act be trans-
mitted to the several town clerks in this state.
It is voted and resolved, that John Reynolds, Esq., agent-
clothier, be, and he is hereby, empowered to draw the sum
of £20,000, lawful money, out of the general treasury, to
purchase clothing for the officers and soldiers in the twelve
months' brigade raised by this state ; and that he account
for the same.
It is voted and resolved, that the commissioned officers in
the twelve months' brigade, raised by this state, be allowed
the same clothing, and upon the same terms as it was re-
ceived by the officers in the state service the last year;
and that the clothier purchase and deliver the same, ac-
cordingly.
It is voted and resolved, that Esek Hopkins and John
Jenckes, Esqs., be, and they are hereby, empowered to draw
the sum of £20,000, lawful money, out of the general treas-
ury, for the purpose of purchasing articles of refreshments,
for the Continental troops belonging to this state, agreea-
bly to a resolution of this Assembly, and the report of Col.
Henry Sherburne, and Lieutenant Colonel Jeremiah Olney ;
1779.] AND PROVIDENCE PLANTATIONS. 581
and that the said committee be empowered to receive of the
tenants of the farms leased by this state, as much cheese as
will be wanted for the supply of the said troops, agreeably
to said resolution.
It is voted and resolved, that James Arnold and Benjamin
Arnold, Esqs., be, and they are hereby, appointed a commit-
tee, to ascertain the value of the fence made use of for
building a battery on the land of Captain Remington, at
Pawtuxet, in December, A. D. 1776 ; and that they make
report to this Assembly, at the next session.
It is voted and resolved, that Theodore Foster, Welcome
Arnold and David Howell, Esqs., be, and they are hereby,
appointed a committee, to point out the best way and man-
ner by which an inquiry shall be made into the conduct of
the staff officers ; and that they report to this Assembly, at
the next session.
It is voted and resolved, that Mrs. Eunice Hazard, now
with the enemy, and her family, be permitted to go into
any town within the county of Providence.
It is voted and resolved, that it be earnestly recommend-
ed to the inhabitants of this state, to open subscriptions in
their several towns for raising their respective proportions,
ageeably to last tax, of the loan of $20,000,000, as recom-
mended by a late resolve of Congress.
That the deputies of the several towns make report of
what is done herein, to the next session of this Assembly ;
and that this resolve be published in both the Providence
newspapers.
Whereas, many evil minded persons, not regarding the
ties of their allegiance to the United States in general, and
this state in particular ; but influenced by the sordid prin-
ciples of avarice, continue illicitly to correspond with and
supply the inhabitants of New Shoreham, in the county of
Newport, with provisions, and other articles, to the great
detriment and distress of the virtuous inhabitants of this
state.
And whereas, the said town of New Shoreham hath been
582 RECORDS OF THE STATE OF RHODE ISLAND [AUG.,
for a long time, and still is, within the power and jurisdic-
tion of the enemies of the United States, whereby the}^ ob-
tain, in consequence of the evil practices aforesaid, supplies
for themselves, and intelligence from time to time of the
situation of our troops, posts and shores ; by which means
they are enabled to make frequent incursions, and thereby
commit devastations upon, and rob the innocent inhabitants
of their property, and deprive them of their subsistence ;
wherefore, —
Be it enacted by this General Assembly, and by the au-
thority thereof it is enacted, that from and after the rising
of this Assembly, if any person or persons whosover, being
inhabitants of, or residents in, this state, shall, by him, her
or themselves, directly or indirectly, go or send upon the
said island of New Shoreham, or any other place in the pos-
session of the enemy, in this state, or upon Long Island; or
supply the inhabitants or inhabitant thereof, with any article
or articles of provision or clothing, or any other article what-
soever, he, she, or they, so offending, upon being convicted
thereof, upon indictment duly presented and found before the
superior court of judicature, court of assize, and general jail
delivery, shall forfeit all his, her or their goods and chat-
tels, and the rents and profits of his, her or their real
estates during life, to and for the use of this state ; and
shall also, when the confiscation of their estates shall not be
deemed a sufficient punishment, be placed in one of the Con-
tinental battalions raised in this state, or on board one of
the Continental vessels of war, to serve during the present
contest with Great Britain, provided the criminal be a male,
and sufficiently qualified to be a soldier or sailor ; but oth-
erwise, should the offender be a female, or not fit for a sol-
dier or sailor, he or she shall receive such corporal punish-
ment as the nature of the crime may require ; or shall be
banished, at the discretion of the court.
Provided nevertheless, that nothing in this act shall ex-
tend, or be construed to extend, to such persons as shall act
by virtue of special permits of this Assembly, or the com-
1771).] AND PROVIDENCE PLANTATIONS. 583
mander-in-chief in the military department ; they conform-
ing themselves strictly to the tenor thereof.
And be it further enacted, that the act heretofore made,
inflicting a penalty of £30, for the offences before mention-
ed, be, and the same is hereby, repealed.
And it is resolved, that this act be published three weeks
successively in the Providence papers.
Voted and resolved, that the following accounts be paid
out of the general treasury, viz. :
Bilk Ordered to be Paid.
£ .9. d.
Capt. Jeremiah Clarke, commander of the armed Pigot galley, for the
subsistence of the officers and men on board the said galley 591 12 18
Nathan Bardin, for the bounty due to a sergeant's guard, doing duty
upon the shores of Warren 206 14 00
Capt. Allen Johnson, for a pay abstract of his company of militia, station-
ed at East Greenwich
Stephen Jenckes, for plank provided for, and labor done upon, Pawtucket
Bridge
( 'apt. William Potter, for one-quarter of his wages, to be paid in articles
at a stated price
Col. Christopher Greene, for a general subsistence abstract for his regi-
ment • 5,284 05 04
Capt. George Simmons, for bounty abstracts of his company of militia, for
doing duty in Tiverton 22 00 00
Capt. George Simmons, for wood, &c, supplied the troops in Tiverton. . . 44 13 04
Col. Archibald Crary, for subsistence due his regiment for abstract 2,752 04 00
Lieut. Thomas Waterman, for moneys paid recruits 30 10 00
Jabez Bowen, Gideon Comstock and Stephen Potter, for their services as
a committee to inquire into an illicit trade 150 00 00
Rowse J. Helme, for his time, expenses and horse-hire in attending upon
the committee to inquire into an illicit trade 93 02 00
Daniel Mowry, Jr., for his expenses in attending upon the committee
for inquiring into an illicit trade 46 04 00
Edw. Thurber, Jr., allowance for the loss of one of his hands when firing
the artillery at the late election 150 00 00
Jabez Bowen, for expenses in attending the late convention at East
Greenwich 48 00 00
Walter Channing, for his expenses in attending upon the General As-
sembly, as clerk 54 12 00
Christopher Lippitt, for his time and expenses in settling abstracts 45 15 00
Peter Phillips, for his time and trouble in receiving and delivering stock,
beloging to the state 9 12 00
William Compton, for attendance on the General Assembly 18 00 00
Samuel Johnson, '• " " " 6 00 00
Daniel Branch, " " " " 19 10 00
God save the United States of America.
42
00 00
54 01 00
13
14 00
-584 RECORDS OF THE STATE OF RHODE ISLAND [SEPT.,
Proceedings of the General Assembly, held for the State of Khode
Island and Providence Plantation*, at East Greenwich, on the
second Monday in September, 1779.
His Excellency William Greene, Governor.
The Hon. Jabez Bowen, Deputy Governor.
Whereas, StephenHazard, Esq., of South Kingstown, in the
county of Kings, preferred a petition, and represented unto
this Assembly, that by an order of the committee appointed
to remove from the shores such persons as they should judge
dangerous to be left near the same, he hath been separated
from his family, and resides as a prisoner in the town of
Cumberland ; and thereupon prayed this Assembly to grant
him a trial at the present session, and to liberate him from
his confinement, that he may procure his evidences ; and
the premises being duly considered, —
It is voted and resolved, that the said Stephen Hazard be
permitted to come to East Greenwich.
That he be heard upon the said petition on next Friday
morning ; and that he remain in the care of the sheriff of
the county of Kent, until the further orders of this As-
sembly.
Whereas, Mr. Samuel Hazard, of South Kingstown, pre-
ferred a petition, and represented unto this Assembly, that
by an order of the committee appointed to remove from the
shores such persons as they should judge dangerous to be
left near the same, he was sent to the town of Hopkinton,
in this state, where he now remains ; and thereupon he
prayed this Assembly to grant him a trial at the present
session, and to release him from his confinement, that he
may procure his evidences ; and the premises being duly
considered. —
1779.] AND PROVIDENCE PLANTATIONS. 585
It is voted and resolved, that the said Samuel Hazard be
permitted to come to East Greenwich.
That he be heard upon the said petition on next Friday ;
and that he remain in the care of the sheriff of the county
of Kent, until the farther orders of this Assembly.
It is voted and resolved, that the report of the committee
appointed to remove disaffected and dangerous persons from
the shores of this state, into the interior parts thereof, be,
and the same is hereby, accepted ; and the conduct of the
said committee approved.
It is voted and resolved, that Welcome Arnold, Esq., be,
and he is hereby, appointed for the counties of Newport,
Providence and Bristol; and Richard Fry, Esq., for the
counties of Kings and Kent, to receive the small arms, bay-
onets and cartridge-boxes, belonging to this state, unfit for
service, and to have the same repaired by the Continental
armorers within this state.
That in case the said Continental armorers cannot repair
the said arms, the said committee employ other persons to
do the said business.
That the colonels of the said regiments of militia collect
the said small arms and accoutrements, and deliver them to
the said Welcome Arnold, or Richard Fry ; and that the late
committee of safet}^ be also required to collect all the arms,
blankets and accoutrements, that they have delivered out
to the militia, since the present war, which have not been
accounted for, and deliver the same to the aforesaid com-
mittee.
Both houses being joined in a grand committee, chose the
following officers, to wit :
Sundry Civil and Military Officers Chosen.
William Davis, Esq., sheriff, of the county of Newport.
Robert Brown, Esq., fifth justice, of the inferior court of
common pleas, and general sessions of the peace, within and
for the county of Kings.
586 RECORDS OF THE STATE OF RHODE ISLAND [SEPT.,
Stephen Pierce, lieutenant ; and Rouse Pierce, ensign, of
the second company of militia in the town of Little Comp-
ton, in the places of Ichabod Wood and John Woodman,
who declined.
William Bliven, captain ; and Joseph Peckham, lieuten-
ant, of the second company of militia in the town of Wes-
terly, in the places of John Gavitt and Stephen Saunders,
who declined.
Walter White, ensign, of the same company.
It is voted and resolved, that the negro woman and her
children, lately purchased by Joshua Randall, of Stonington,
in the state of Connecticut, of Carder Hazard, Esq., who
were taken into the possession of the sheriff of the county
of Kings, by an order of this Assembly, passed at the last
session, be sold to such person or persons, within this state,
as shall be approved of by the said Carder Hazard.
That the said Joshua Randall pay all the expenses that
have accrued, or may accrue, upon the said negroes, in con-
sequence of the said order ; and that the said sheriff keep
possession of the said negroes, until they shall be sold as
aforesaid.
Whereas, the dwelling house, lately belonging to Naphtali
Hart and Company, lying in Tiverton, which was taken
possession of by this state, as belonging to persons inimical
to the rights of America, is going to decay very fast, and
unless some repairs are made, will be rendered entirely use-
less ; and as the same is leased out by this state unto Mr.
Abner Durfee, —
It is voted and resolved, that Pardon Gray, Esq., be, and
he is hereby, appointed, to inspect into the present condition
of the said dwelling house, and to give directions to the said
Abner Durfee to make such repairs upon the said house as
are absolutely necessary, to prevent it from going to de-
struction ; and that the said Abner Durfee cause repairs to
be made, and lay his account of the expense thereof, before
this Assembly.
1779.] AND PROVIDENCE PLANTATIONS. 587
It is voted and resolved, that Adam Comstock, Rowse J.
Helme, Benjamin Bourne and David Howell, Esqs., be, and
they are hereby, appointed a committee to draught a bill
for confiscating the estates of persons inimical to the liberty
and independence of the United States of America ; and that
they make report to this Assembly at the present session.
It is voted and resolved, that the resolution of this As-
sembly, regulating the price of tow-cloth, to be purchased
for the use of the troops raised by this state, be, and the
same is hereby, repealed.
It is voted and resolved, that John Reynolds, Esq., agent-
clothier, be, and he is hereby, empowered to draw the sum
of £16,000, lawful money, out of the general treasury, to
purchase clothing for the use of the troops raised by this
state ; and that he account for the same.
Whereas, Christopher Robinson, Esq., of South Kings-
town, in the county of Kings, preferred a petition, and rep-
resented unto this Assembly, that, by an order of the com-
mittee appointed to inquire into the conduct of suspected
persons, he is removed from his family and estate ; and
thereupon prayed this Assembly to grant him such relief as
to justice and equity shall appertain ; and the premises be-
ing duly considered, —
It is voted and resolved, that the said Christopher Robin-
son be permitted to come to East Greenwich.
That he be heard on the said petition ; and that he re-
main in the care of the sheriff of the county of Kent, until
the further orders of this Assembly.
Whereas, William Barton, Esq., a colonel in the Conti-
nental army, in the service of this state, preferred a peti-
tion, and represented unto this Assembly, that ever since
the present contest with Great Britain, he has devoted his
time entirely to the service of his country.
That this Assembly hath granted unto the officers and
soldiers of this state subsistence money, from time to
time.
That in the aforesaid grants, he hath not been consid-
588 RECORDS OF THE STATE OF RHODE ISLAND [SEPT.,
ered, and hath never received any allowance for his subsist-
ence since March, A. D. 1778 ; and that the pay he receives
from the Continent is no ways adequate to his expenses ;
whereupon, he prayed this Assembly to make him the same
allowances as are, and have been, made unto the colonels
commanding battalions within this state ; and the premises
being duly considered, —
It is voted and resolved, that the said petition be, and
the same is hereby, granted ; and that the auditor ascertain
the allowances due, agreeably to the prayer thereof.
It is voted and resolved, that the wife of George Wight-
man, and three children, to wit :
Alice, Daniel and Moses, be, and they are hereby, permit-
ted to proceed in a flag to the island of Ehode Island, with
her household furniture.
That Mary Boon, who heretofore obtained liberty to go
on the said island, be also permitted to carry her furniture ;
and that they go under the direction of Col. Greene, or
such other officer as shall be appointed by Gen. Gates.
Whereas, there is a small schooner lately come ashore on
Point Judith, which was stolen from Bedford, by a number
of sailors, with an intent to carry her to Newport ; and as
the said schooner is the property of a poor man, named
Downing, a friend to the United States, and is
nearly the whole of his estate, —
It is therefore voted and resolved, that it be recommend-
ed to Col. Israel Angell, to cause the said schooner to be
secured in some safe harbor.
That he be empowered and requested to recover the sails
and other appurtenances of the said schooner, which have
been plundered ; and that he keep the whole in his posses-
sion, until further orders from this Assembly or the council
of war.
Upon a pay abstract of a patrolling party of horse, com-
manded by Col. John Gardner, in August, 1778, presented
unto this Assembly, —
It is voted and resolved, that the said abstract be referred
1779.] AND PROVIDENCE PLANTATIONS. 589
to the Honorable Major General Gates; and that it be re-
commended to him to make the same allowances to the
persons therein named, as have been heretofore made to
the troop of horse who have done service within this state.
Both houses being joined in a grand committee, the re-
turn of the choice of officers for the alarm company in
the town of Coventry was read, and the said officers ap-
proved ; they are as follows, to wit :
Samuel Wall, captain ; Abel Bennett, first lieutenant ;
Job Greene, second lieutenant; Jonathan Nichols, Jr.,
ensign.
Joseph Allen is chosen lieutenant, of the first company of
militia in the town of Providence, in the room of Hezekiah
Dayton, who declined ; and Isaac Bowen, ensign, of the
same company, in the room of the said Joseph Allen.
Whereas, Sylvester Robinson, Esq., of South Kingstown,
preferred a petition, and represented unto this Assembly,
that, by an order of the committee appointed to inquire
into and remove suspected persons, he, together with his
family, are ordered to be removed to Glocester or Cumber-
land ; and whereupon, he prayed this Assembly to grant
him relief in the premises ; which being duly considered, —
It is voted and resolved, that the order of the committee,
for the removal of the said Sylvester Robinson to Glocester
or Cumberland, be, and the same is hereby, annulled.
Upon the petition of Mr. Stephen Potter, of South
Kingstown, presented unto this Assembly, respecting the
stock taken from the Point Judith farm, belonging to
this state, —
It is voted and resolved, that Gideon Comstock, Thomas
Holden and John Jenckes, Esqs., be, and they are hereby
appointed a committee to take the said petition into consid-
eration ; and that they make report to this Assembly.
Whereas, the town of Johnston hath not assessed the
Continental tax, last ordered to be assessed upon the inhab-
itants of this state, and hath requested that a further time
590 RECORDS OF THE STATE OF RHODE ISLAND [SEPT.,
may be allowed to the said town for that purpose ; where-
fore,—
It is voted and resolved, that the said town of Johnston
be empowered to assess the said tax, at any time on or be-
fore the 25th day of September instant ; and that the as-
sessors make and deliver a list thereof, to the town clerk of
the said town, to be by him immediately forwarded to the
general treasurer ; who is thereupon empowered to issue a
warrant for collecting the said tax, agreeably to the act of
Assembly.
Whereas, the Most Honorable the Continental Congress
did, on the 18th day of August last, resolve that, until the
further orders of Congress, the officers and soldiers of the
army should be entitled to receive monthly, for their sub-
sistence money, the following sums, to wit :
Amount of Pay of Officers and Soldiers in the Continental Army,
ordered by Congress.
Each colonel, - - - $500 00
brigade chaplain, - - - 500 00
lieutenant colonel, - - 400 00
major, - - - - 300 00
regimental surgeon, - - 300 00
captain, - - - 200 00
lieutenant, - - - 100 00
ensign, - - - 100 00
surgeon's mate, - - - 100 00
non-commissioned officer and soldier, - 10 00
It is therefore voted and resolved, that no Continental
commissioned officer, chaplain, surgeon, or surgeon's mate,
be allowed any subsistence money by this state, from and
after the 1st day of September instant.
It is further voted and resolved, that the non-commis-
sioned officers and soldiers raised by this state, shall receive
1779.] AND PROVIDENCE PLANTATIONS. 591
monthly, as their subsistence money, from and after the said
1st day of September, the following sums, to wit :
Pay of Non-commissioned Officers and Soldiers in the Army,
ordered by the State.
Each sergeant, - - - - $17 00
" corporal, - - - 16 00
" drummer, - - - - 16 00
« fifer, - - - - 16 00
" private soldier, - - - 15 00
That the subsistence money of such of the said non-
commissioned officers and soldiers as have families, be paid
to the town councils of the towns to which they respec-
tively belong, for the better maintenance of their families ;
unless one of the field officers shall recommend any of the
said non-commissioned officers or soldiers, belonging to his
regiment, as suitable persons to receive the money; in
which case, the same shall be paid to such non-commissioned
officer or soldier ; and that one-and-an-half per cent, be al-
lowed, and paid out of the general treasury to the respec-
tive town councils, for transacting the aforesaid business.
It is further voted and resolved, that this act shall not
extend to any non-commissioned officer or soldier, who hath
been heretofore a slave, and became free by virtue of an act
of this state only in consequence of his enlisting into the
service.
And it is further voted and resolved, that all the acts
heretofore made and passed, for the better subsistence of
the said troops, be, and they are hereby, repealed ; and that
copies of this act be transmitted to the several town clerks
in this state.
An abstract for money, due to the officers and soldiers of
Col. Archibald Crary's regiment, in lieu of sauce, having
been laid before this Assembly, —
It is voted and resolved, that His Honor the Deputy
592 RECORDS OF THE STATE OF RHODE ISLAND . [SEPT.,
Deputy Governor, and Jonathan Arnold, Esq., be, and the}^
are hereby, appointed a committee to wait upon the Hon-
orable Major General Gates, and recommend to him to
order payment of so much of the aforesaid abstract as shall
appear to be due.
Whereas, Gideon Comstock, Thomas Holden and John
Jenckes, Esqs., presented unto this Assembly the following
report, to wit :
Report of the Committee appointed by the General Assembly, to ex-
amine into the affair of certain Stock taken from the Farm at
Point Judith.
The subscribers, being appointed by the Honorable General Assembly, to examine
into the affair of the stock taken from the farm at Point Judith, now in possession of
the state, do report :
That it appears to the committee, that William Gorton and Stephen Potter (son of
John), entered into a contract with design to defraud the state of the stock, belonging
to the state, that was on the said farm.
That it is the opinion of the committee, that the said Stephen Potter be accountable
for all the stock, belonging to the state, that was on the said farm, excepting the sheep
delivered to Mr. Job Watson.
That the deficiency is two hundred and twenty -seven sheep, eight cows, and four
oxen ; the value of which, estimating the sheep at £6, each, the cows at £100, each,
and the oxen at £300, a pair, is £2,762, lawful money ; from which a deduction is to
be made, of £1,214, lawful money, being the amount of the sales of the stock, cart,
&c, taken from the said Stephen Potter, by order of the council of Avar, and sold at
public vendue by the sheriff of the county of Kings ; which leaves a balance due from
the said Stephen Potter to the state of £1,548, lawful money.
That it is also the opinion of the committee, that the said Stephen Potter and Wm.
Gorton, enter into recognizance before the Honorable General A'ssembly, in such sum
as shall be thought proper, and submit all disputes, of every nature and kind, between
them, to the determination of three good men, to be approved of by the Honorable
General Assembly, who shall finally settle and determine the same ; and also all mat-
ters and things respecting any person employed by the said William Gorton, in driv-
ing stock out of this state ; and that all actions and prosecutions between the parties
cease. All which is submitted to Your Honors. GIDEON COMSTOCK,
THOMAS HOLDEN,
JOHN JENCKES.
And the said report being duly considered, —
It is voted and resolved, that the same be accepted ; that
the said Stephen Potter pay the said balance of £1,548,
lawful money, into the general treasury, on or before the
1st day of the next session of this Assembly ; and that the
1779.] AND PROVIDENCE PLANTATIONS. 593
said Stephen Potter and William Gorton recognize, with
sufficient sureties, to appear at the said session, and to abide
the further order of this Assembly respecting them.
And it is further voted and resolved, that Enoch Hazard,
and Rowse J. Helme, Esqs., be, and they are hereby, ap-
pointed to ascertain the balance due from the said William
Gorton, to the state, for the rents, taxes, &c, of the farm
heretofore leased him in behalf of the state ; and that they
make report at the said session.
Whereas, Stephen Potter and William Gorton, did, before
this Assembly, enter into the following rule, to wit :
Whereas, there are divers disputes and controversies sub-
sisting between Stephen Potter (son of John), of South
Kingstown, in the county of Kings, husbandman, and Wm.
Gorton, late of South Kingstown, aforesaid, husbandman,
concerning the stock and utensils belonging to this state,
leased to the said William Gorton, with the Point Judith
farm, so called ; and also of more private and particular
natures ; for the settling and determining whereof, the par-
ties agree to submit the same, and every matter in conten-
tion between them, to the final end and determination of
Thomas Potter, Esq., Samuel Babcock, Esq., and Mr. Caleb
Gardner, who are empowered to notify the parties of the
time and place they will hear them thereon, and to decide
upon their several pleas, charges, allegations and evidences ;
and that they, or any two of them, agreeing, make report
to this Assembly, at the next session, when judgment shall
be given on their report, and execution issue thereon, re-
turnable to the next following session ; and the parties fur-
ther agree, that if either of them shall neglect appearing
before the referees, upon being duly notified, they shall pro-
ceed ex parte ; which being duly considered, —
It is voted and resolved, that the said rule be approved
of; and that the same take place accordingly.
Whereas, Messrs. Stephen Haszard, Stephen Haszard, Jr.,
Christopher Robinson, Samuel Haszard, Jeremiah Hassard,
son of Robert, and the wife of the said Jeremiah, have
594 RECORDS OF THE STATE OF RHODE ISLAND [SEPT.,
prayed this Assembly to be heard upon the charges brought
against thern ; and as this Assembly cannot, at the present
session, hear their said petitions, —
It is therefore voted and resolved, that the said Stephen
Haszard, Stephen Haszard, Jr., Christopher Robinson, Sam'l
Haszard, Jeremiah Haszard and his wife, be permitted to re:
turn to their respective homes and places of abode ; they sev-
erally giving their paroles that they will act and do every
thing which good and faithful citizens ought, for the good and
safety of this state, and of the United States; and that they will
appear before this Assembly, at the next s< ssion, to be heard
upon their said petitions.
Whereas, Benjamin Shearman hath been adjudged, by
the committee appointed to inquire into the conduct of sus-
pected persons, to be inimical to the liberty and independ-
ence of the United States ; and whereas, there are certain
suits and controversies subsisting between the said Benja-
min Shearman and David Shearman, upon which judgments
have been obtained, —
It is therefore voted and resolved, that all the said
proceedings be stayed until the further orders of this
Assembly.
It is voted and resolved, that His Honor the Deputy Gov-
ernor, Jonathan Arnold, Esq., Adam Comstock, Esq., Mr. Da-
vid Howell and Benjamin Bourne, Esq., be, and they are
hereby, appointed a committee to revise and amend the mi-
litia laws of this state ; and that they form them into one
law, and report the same to this Assembly, at the next
session.
It is voted and resolved, that the freemen of the towns of
Newport, Portsmouth, Jamestown and Middletown, now
upon the main, be empowered to choose deputies to repre-
sent them at the next October session of the Assembly, and
at the following sessions, until the general election in May
next.
That the freemen of Newport and Middletown meet for
that purpose at the state house in Providence, on the
1779.] AND PROVIDENCE PLANTATIONS. 595
second Wednesday in October next, at eleven o'clock in
the forenoon.
That the freemen of Portsmouth meet at the same time,
for the like purpose, at the house of Mr. Abner Durfee, in
Tiverton.
That the freemen of Jamestown meet at the same time,
for the same purpose, at the house of Mr. Matthew Allen,
in North Kingstown ; and be also empowered to choose a
town clerk ; they not having appointed that officer at the
last annual meeting.
That the said freemen, in their said respective town
meetings, conform themselves to their ancient customs ; and
that a copy of this resolve be published in the Providence
newspapers.
It is voted and resolved, that Major General James M.
Varnum be, and he is hereby, directed to cause strict exam-
ination to be made of the state of the arms, &c, of the militia,
alarm and independent companies, within this state, on the
third Monday in October next, as by law is required.
That he cause returns to be made to him of the particu-
lar deficiencies in each company, within five days next after
such examination ; and immediately upon his receiving the
same, issue his orders for collecting the fines for each article
deficient, agreeably to an act made and passed by this As-
sembly at the session held in May, A. D. 1778.
That he cause the returns of such deficiencies to be laid
before this Assembly at the next session after such exami-
nation ; and that this act to be published in the next Provi-
dence newspapers.
It is voted and resolved, that the Honorable Jabez Bowen,
Esq., Esek Hopkins, Esq., and Mr. John Brown, be, and they
are hereby, appointed a committee to wait upon the Honor-
able Major General Gates, and acquaint him with the rea-
sons why this Assembly, at the present session, have not
taken any new measures for enlisting men for the public
service ; and to assure him, that this Assembly will concur
with him, to the utmost abilities of the state, in all such
596 RECORDS OF THE STATE OF RHODE ISLAND [SEPT.,
measures as may promote the cause of the United
States.
His Excellency the Governor having laid before this As-
sembly a letter from Jonathan Williams, Esq., at Nantz,
written by the desire of Benjamin Franklin, Esq., minister
plenipotentiary from the United States of America, at
the court of Versailles, with Berenger's history of Geneva,
as a present from the said Benjamin Franklin to this
state, —
It is therefore voted and resolved, that His Excellency
the Governor be requested to acknowledge the receipt of
the said letter and books, and to express the sincere thanks
of this Assembly to the said Benjamin Franklin for the said
present.
That the secretary write in the title-pages of each of the
volumes, " A present from the Honorable Benjamin Frank-
lin, Esq., L.L D. and F. R. S., for the use of the state of
Rhode Island and Providence Plantations ;" and that the
said books be placed in the library, at Providence, until fur-
ther orders from this Assembly.
It is voted and resolved, that John Rose and Frederick Wyl-
lis, two inhabitants of New Shoreham, who were taken by
an American privateer, and are now in the custody of the
sheriff, be delivered to Col. Christopher Greene ; who is di-
rected to send them, with their examinations, to the
Honorable Major General Gates, to be treated as prisoners
of war, or dismissed, as he shall think proper.
It is voted and resolved, that the General Assembly,
which by law is to be holden on the last Wednesday in Oc-
tober next, convene at South Kingstown on the last Mon-
day in the aforesaid month, for the dispatch of business ;
any law or custom to the contrary hereof, notwithstanding.
It is voted and resolved, that the committee appointed at
the last session, to examine and remove dangerous persons,
be continued for the purposes of their appointment.
That they proceed as they shall think most conducive to
the public interest.
1779.] AND PROVIDENCE PLANTATIONS. 597
That Stephen Potter and Thomas Tillinghast, Esqs., be
added to the said committee ; of which any three shall be a
quorum ; and that they make report to this Assembly at
the next session.
It is voted and resolved, that the council of war take such
measures as they shall think best, to procure a sufficient
quantity of clothing for the Continental troops raised by
this state ; and that they apportion one thousand five hun-
dred pair of stockings to, and upon, the several towns, in
the same manner as stockings have been heretofore ap-
portioned for the state troops ; for which they shall allow at
the rate of forty shilling per pair.
It is voted and resolved, that Ensign John Hubbard, of
Colonel Israel Angell's battalion, be promoted to the rank
of lieutenant, in the said battalion, in the room of Lieuten-
ant Benedict Tew, who resigned ; that his appointment
take place from the 19th day of May last.
That Ensign Joseph Wheaton, of the same battalion, be
promoted to the rank of lieutenant, therein, in the room of
Lieutenant Thomas Waterman, who resigned ; that his ap-
pointment take place on the 1st instant ; and that they be
commissioned accordingly.
Voted and resolved, that the following accounts be paid
out of the general treasury, viz. :
£ s.d.
Matthew Manchester, for his time and expenses as one of the committee to
inquire into the conduct of suspected persons 94 12 0
Othniel Gorton, for the same service 100 10 0
Paris Gardner, deputy sheriff, for attending the above committee 41 16 0
Thomas Rumreil, for service on same committee 86 00 6
Adam Comstock, " " " " 37 16 0
William Arnold, " " " " at his house . . 120 14 6
Abiezer Brings, a soldier in Col. Lippitt's regiment, for a gun and bayonet
lost by him at the battle of Trenton 8 06 0
Jonathan J. Hazard, for attending the council of war, as a member 78 00 0
Esek Hopkins, " " " " " 78 00 0
Joseph Jenckes, " " " " " 78 00 0
Preserved Pearce, " " " " " 72 00 0
John Northup, " " " " " 74 19 0
598 RECORDS OF THE STATE OF RHODE ISLAND [OCT.
£ s. d.
Edward Perry and Freeman Perry, for expenses of law suit against Thos.
Kinyon 126 10 3|
Edward Perry and Freeman Perry, for expenses of law suit against Im-
manuel Northup, formerly sheriff of Kings county • 31 09 6^
Gideon Comstock, for attending the council of war as a member 78 00 0
Thomas Potter, Jr., for the expenses at his house of the committee to re-
move disaffected persons 103 12 0
Jeremiah Cane, a soldier, to enable him to defray his expenses to Boston,
to join the corps of invalids at that place 15 00 0
Capt. Ebenezer Adams, for the use of Matthias Enos, a soldier in Colonel
Crary's regiment ... 8170
Mrs. Hannah Spencer, for nursing, boarding, &c, two sick soldiers 2 14 0
Mrs. Abigail Tomkins, " " " " " " 3 12 0
The Governor, for his services as one of the committee of war 99 12 0
Pardon Gray, " " " " " " 30 18 0
The Deputy Governor, " " •' " 84 00 0
Peter Phillips, for services on the committee to inquire into the conduct of
suspected persons 30 08 0
Capt. Remington and Peleg Arnold, for materials furnished for
building a battery at Pawtuxet 54 19 00
Abraham Greene, for his attendance upon the General Assembly, at the
present session, as waiter , 18 00 0
William Channing, for his services and expenses as clerk of the General
Assembly at the last session 24 08 0
Arnold Stafford, for his attendance upon the General Assembly at the pres-
ent session, as waiter 18 00 0
God save the United States of America.
Proceedings of the General Assembly, held for the State of Rhode
Island and Providence Plantations, at Soidh Kingstown, on the
last Monday in October, 1779.
His Excellency William Greene, Governor.
The Hon. Jabez Bowen, Deputy Governor.
It is voted and resolved, that His Excellency the Gov-
ernor be, and he is hereby, requested to write immediately
to Major Gates, desiring him to prevent any goods or mer-
chandize, of any kind whatsoever, which are now upon the
island of Rhode Island, from being disposed of and carried
from thence, or the property thereof being changed, until
1779.] AND PROVIDENCE PLANTATIONS. 599
this Assembly shall give directions therein, excepting for
the use of the army.
Whereas, the enemy have evacuated this state, in conse-
quence whereof the service of the militia guards, that
have been placed upon the shores thereof, are no longer
wanted, —
It is therefore voted and resolved, that the said guards be,
and they are hereby, dismissed ; and the commanding officers
of posts where such guards have been placed, are hereby
required to dismiss them accordingly ; and that a copy
of this resolve be sent to each of the said commanding
officers.
It is voted and resolved, that all acts and laws heretofore
made, prohibiting the inhabitants of this state from going
upon the islands of Rhode Island and Jamestown, and hold-
ing correspondence, and trading with the inhabitants there-
of, while the said islands were in possession of the enemy,
be, and the same are hereby, repealed.
It is voted and resolved, that it be recommended to His
Excellency the Governor to permit Mrs. Ann Wright, Edw.
Hall and Mr. Benjamin Sheffield, to pass to New Shoreham,
and back again, under such restrictions as he shall direct.
It is voted and resolved, that the sheriff of the county of
Kings forthwith procure a sett of stone steps to be placed
at the entrance, into the east end of the state house in the
said county, and that he lay the accounts for the same, be-
fore this Assembly for payment.
It is voted and resolved, that a general embargo be laid
upon all goods whatsoever ; that none be exported or car-
ried without this state, either by land or water ; and that
James M. Varnum and Rowse J. Helme, Esqs., be, and they
are hereby, appointed a committee to draft a bill for that
purpose, and lay the same before this Assembly as soon as
may be.
It is voted and resolved, that the sheriff of the county of
Providence forthwith take into possession, for the use of this
state, a tract of land lying in the town of Glocester, lately
600 RECORDS OF THE STATE OF RHODE ISLAND [OCT.,
belonging to Robert Auchmuty, Peter Luce, Estes Hatch
and Henry Overing, who are represented as enemies to this
and the United States ; and that the said sheriff make in-
quiry who is in possession of the same, and who hath received
the profits of the said lands since the 19th of April, A. D.
1775, and make return thereof to this Assembly.
A general subsistence abstract for Col. Israel Angell's
regiment, for the month of August last, having been laid be-
fore this Assembly, was read, and committed to the auditor,
who reported that he had examined the particular abstracts
making the general abstract.
That he found them right; and that the sum of $7,153
1-6, is due thereon.
It is therefore voted and resolved, that the said sum of
$7,153 1-6, in Continental money, be paid out of the gen-
eral treasury, unto the said Israel Angell, for the purpose of
discharging the said abstract.
Whereas, John Case hath heretofore been confined as a
person inimical to the liberty and independence of the
United States, and since he was liberated from the said con-
finement, hath been suspected and is now charged with,
having been concerned in writing a threatening letter to
Othniel Gorton, Esq., speaker of the lower house of Assem-
bly, and chairman of the committee appointed by the As-
sembly for apprehending suspected persons, —
It is therefore voted and resolved, that the said John
Case be committed to the jail in the county of Kings,
and there closely confined until the further orders of this
Assembly.
Whereas, Mr. John Gardner, Jr., of South Kingstown, and
divers other persons, good citizens of this state, had in the
spring of the year past, a very considerable number of neat
cattle, sheep, &c, taken from their farms in Point Judith,
and carried by the enemy to Rhode Island.
And whereas, the enemy have lately evacuated the same,
and left part of the aforesaid stock (as it is said,) upon the
said island, —
1779.] AND PROVIDENCE PLANTATIONS. 001
It is therefore voted and resolved, that it be, and hereby
is, recommended unto the Hon. Major General Gates to
permit the said John Gardner to discriminate and point out
the stock that was taken from him, and others, if any there
should be remaining upon the said island ; and upon his
proving to the satisfaction of General Gates, or those whom
he shall appoint, that they are the identical cattle, &c, and
are not claimed by individuals, that he permit the said John
Gardner to receive the same for the use of the then owners ;
but if claimed, as aforesaid, that the said cattle, &c, be
secured until proper inquiry can be made relative to the
same.
Whereas, the following persons, to wit : Stephen Haszard,
Stephen Haszard, Jr., Samuel Haszard, Christopher Robin-
son, Jeremiah Haszard (son of Robert), Jeremiah Haszard
(son of Jeffery), Jabez Reynolds, Thomas Haszard (son of
Jeremiah), Silas Spink, Nathan Allen and his wife, Nicholas
Spink and Benjamin Shearman, were heretofore removed
on suspicion that they were inimical to the United States,
and held a correspondence with the enemy ; and that their
remaining at their respective homes was dangerous to the
safety of the public ; but as the enemy, since their removal,
have departed from Rhode Island, —
It is therefore voted and resolved, that the persons before
named, be, and they are hereb}^, permitted to return to their
respective homes, notwithstanding any former order of this
Assembly; provided nevertheless, that the said persons shall
be held amenable for their conduct as aforesaid, whenever it
shall be ordered by this Assembly on evidence appearing
against them.
Whereas, by the death of John Cole, Esq., the office of
advocate in the court of admiralty in this state became
vacant, and no person hath since been appointed to that
office, —
It is therefore voted and rssolved, that James Mitchel
Varnum, Esq., be, and he is hereby, appointed advocate ol
the said court.
vol. vin. 76
602 RECORDS OF THE STATE OF RHODE ISLAND [OCT.,
It is voted and resolved, that the following persons be
chosen to the offices hereafter mentioned, to wit :
Officers of the Militia Chosen.
Bennett Wheeler, lieutenant; and Samuel Yeates, Jr.,
ensign, of the third company of militia in the town of
Providence.
Joseph Snow, Jr., lieutenant ; and Lemuel Field, ensign,
of the fourth company of militia in the said town.
Thomas Congdon, captain ; George Colvin, lieutenant,
and William Warner, ensign, of the first company of militia
in the town of Cranston.
Pardon Burlingame, ensign, of the third company of mi-
litia in the said town of Cranston.
Andrew Angell, captain ; and Nathaniel Lovell, first lieu-
tenant, of the alarm company in the town of Scituate.
It is voted and resolved, that Mr. Joseph Seagar be per-
mitted to subscribe the test heretofore ordered to be sub-
scribed by the inhabitants of this state.
Whereas, it is absolutely necessary for the supplying the
inhabitants of the town of Newport with provisions, that
the communication from the main land to Rhode Island,
should be restored, by establishing and keeping up the fer-
ries ; and whereas, the wharves of the South Ferry, in South
Kingstown, and on the west side of Jamestown, are entirely
destroyed, —
It is therefore voted and resolved, that Enoch Haszard,
Esq., be, and he is hereby, appointed to make application to
the original proprietors of the said ferries, requesting them
immediately to put the same into passable repair, by the
4th day of November next ; that upon their neglecting or
refusing to repair the same, the said Enoch Haszard imme-
diately proceed to repair the said wharves ; that he do the
business in the most frugal manner, having no more work
done than is absolutely necessary for making the ferries
passable ; that two proper boats be hired, with persons to
s.
J.
09
0
18
0
18
0
20
0
18
0
06
0
05
0
04
6
00
0
1779.] AND PROVIDENCE PLANTATIONS. 603
attend them ; that the following ferriages be taken between
South Kingstown and Jamestown ; and also between James-
town and Newport, to wit :
Rates of Ferriage between Newport and South Kingstomi.
£
For every footman,
" a man and horse,
" a drift horse, -
u every neat beast above two years old, -
" " yearling,
" * calf,
" " hog, ....
" sheep or lamb,
" " horse and riding carriage, - - 3
" heavy goods, six shillings per hundred weight ; and in
that proportion for any less quantity.
And that the moneys arising from the said ferriages be
paid into the general treasury, to pay the expense of build-
ing the said wharves, &c.
And it is further voted and resolved, that the original
owners of the said ferries, by applying and paying the ex-
penses which this state may be at in repairing the said ferries,
shall have the same delivered unto them, to be made use of,
for their own private advantage.
And it is further voted and resolved, that the ferrymen
attending the said ferries, be subject to the same penalties,
rules and regulations as are already provided by the laws
now in force in this state ; saving and excepting, that in
case any ferryman shall demand a higher price for any arti-
cle than is herein affixed, he shall be liable to pay double
the sum of the article so demanded ; to be recovered in
manner as in by the acts heretofore made for regulating
ferries is directed and prescribed.
Whereas, the freemen of the towns of Portsmouth, Middle-
town and Jamestown, did not convene, to make choice of
deputies to represent their respective towns, agreeably to
604 RECORDS OF THE STATE OF RHODE ISLAND [OCT.,
the resolution of this Assembly passed at the last session ;
and whereas, since the passing of the said resolution, the said
towns have been evacuated by the enemy, and have come
into the possession of this state ; wherefore, —
It is voted and resolved, that the freemen of the said
towns of Portsmouth, Middletown and Jamestown be, and
they are hereby, empowered to meet at the usual places
within their respective towns on the second Wednesday of
November next, to choose deputies to represent them at the
next session of this Assembly, and at the following sessions,
till May next.
It is further voted and resolved, that the said freemen
when convened as aforesaid, be, and they are hereby, em-
powered to choose a moderator of said meeting, and the town
officers which by law are to be appointed within their re-
spective towns ; provided, nevertheless, that every person
within the said towns, who hath signed the association, or
taken an active part with the enemy, be excluded from
electing or being elected to any office within the said towns,
or of voting or acting in the said town meetings.
Ordered, that a copy of this resolution be published in
the next Providence newspapers.
Whereas, twenty copies of the journals of Congress
have been received from Philadelphia, for the use of this
state, —
It is voted and resolved, that they be distributed in the
following manner, to wit : that one of the said copies be de-
livered to the secretary, and one to the clerk of the house
of deputies, five to and for the use of the county of New-
port, four to each of the counties of Providence and Kings
county, three to the county of Kent, and two to the county
of Bristol.
Whereas, Mr. William Vincent exhibited unto this Assem-
bly, an account charged by him against the state, for his ex-
penses, medicines and attendance, as surgeon of Col. Joseph
Noyes's regiment of militia, in August, A. D. 1778 ; which
being duly considered, —
1770.] AND PROVIDENCE PLANTATIONS. 605
It is voted and resolved, that the said account, amount-
ing to <£30 14s., lawful money, be referred to the director-
general of the hospitals within this state ; and that he make
such allowance thereon, as is agreeable to the resolutions of
Congress.
Whereas, representation is made to this Assembly, that
on the night following the 17th day of October instant, a
certain seditious paper or libel, was affixed at the door of
the Hon. Othniel Gorton, Esq., in Warwick, highly insulting,
and threatening him for having acted as chairman of a com-
mittee heretofore appointed by this Assembly, for inquiring
into the conduct of persons suspected as enemies to this
country ; and whereas, such conduct is highly criminal and
derogatory to the honor and dignity of government, and
tends to introduce anarchy and confusion, —
It is therefore voted and resolved, that in order that such
criminal conduct may be detected and punished, a reward
of $500, to be paid out of the general treasury, be, and the
same is hereby, offered to any one who shall give informa-
tion of any person or persons, who were aiding, assisting, or
consenting to the writing or setting up the said seditious
paper, so that he or the}^ so concerned, may be duly con-
victed thereof.
And it is further voted and resolved, that if any person or
persons concerned in writing or setting up the said libel, shall
discover his accomplices, so that he or they may be convict-
ed, as aforesaid, he or they making such discovery, shall be
pardoned for the said offence, and entitled to the reward
above mentioned.
Whereas, the inhabitants of the town of Newport have, since
the enemy were in possession of the island of Rhode Island
(which is now evacuated by them), been deprived of their
corporate powers ; and whereas, it is necessary for the well
ordering and conducting the prudential affairs of the said
town, that a town meeting be held, and the usual town offi-
cers chosen ; wherefore, —
It is voted and resolved, that the inhabitants of the said
606 RECORDS OF THE STATE OF RHODE ISLAND [OCT.,
town of Newport meet in town meeting on Tuesday, the 2d
day of November next ; and that they be, and are hereby,
empowered to choose a moderator, town clerk, and other
town officers; provided nevertheless, that every person
within the said town, who hath signed the association, or
taken an active part with the enemy, be excluded from
electing, or being elected, to any office within the said
town ; and from voting or acting in the said town meet-
ing ; and that the said town meeting exclude such persons,
accordingly.
It is voted and resolved, that the acts of this Assembly
heretofore made for prohibiting the inhabitants of New
Shoreham from passing and re-passing to and from the
main, be, and the same are hereby, repealed.
And it is further voted and resolved, that the said inhabit-
ants of New Shoreham be not permitted to transport any
articles of provisions, or merchandize whatever, from the
main, or any other part of this state, without permission
from this Assembly, or the council of war ; saving and ex-
cepting, timber for the implements of husbandry, and ashes,
and all articles brought from said New Shoreham, and al-
tered or manufactured into different forms, may be returned
when altered and manufactured ; provided, a certificate be
obtained from a justice of the peace, in the town where such
articles shall be so altered or manufactured, that the carrier
declared on oath, or affirmation, that the same are of the
produce of the said island.
It is voted and resolved, that a further time be allowed
for collecting the money ordered to be paid into the Conti-
nental loan office, by the inhabitants of this state ; and that
the same be paid into the said loan office by the 1st day of
December next.
And it is further voted and resolved, that the town treas-
urers of the several towns be, and they are hereby, empow-
ered to issue warrants of distraint against their respective
inhabitants who have not paid into the loan office the sums
by them respectively subscribed, and the fees for collecting
1770.] AND PROVIDENCE PLANTATIONS. 007
the same ; that the said warrants be directed to the collec-
tors of taxes within the towns where such subscribers are
inhabitants ; that thereupon the said collectors be, and they
are hereby, empowered to collect the said sums, and pay the
same into the said loan office, agreeably to the resolution of
this Assembly ; and that the said collectors be allowed and
receive the same fees as are allowed for collecting taxes.
It is voted and resolved, that Joseph Maxson be, and he
is hereby, appointed first lieutenant ; Peleg Berry, second
lieutenant; and Silas Greenman, ensign, of the alarm com-
pany in the town of Westerly.
Whereas, it appears from the late general muster and re-
view throughout this state, that there are many deficiencies
in arms, bayonets and cartouch-boxes ; and that from the
late particular situation of this state, while a part thereof
was in possession of the enemy, it was very difficult for the
inhabitants to provide themselves agreeably to law ; and
whereas, it is represented that the delinquents are desirous
of furnishing themselves as soon as may be, —
It is therefore voted and resolved, that the collecting the
fines as ordered at the last session of this Assembly, be sus-
pended until the 1st clay of December next ; that all delin-
quents who shall furnish themselves by the said time, and
make due proof thereof to the colonel or commanding field
officer in whose district they live, be exempted from the
said fines ; and that a return of their names be made to the
brigadier generals or commanding officers of their respec-
tive brigades, and by the said brigadiers to the major gen-
eral, by the 1st day of January next ; and by him to the
next succeeding session of the General Assembly ; provided
always, that the fines of all such as shall remain delinquent
after the said 1st day of December, be immediately there-
after collected agreeably to law.
Whereas, Theodore Foster, William Channing and Adam
Comstock, Esqs., presented unto this Assembly the follow-
ing reports, and account by them charged against the state,
to wit :
008 RECORDS OF THE STATE OF RHODE ISLAND [OCT.,
Reports of the Committees appointed by the General Assembly to ex-
amine into the Petition of Edward Kitchen Wolcott, of Brookline,
Massachusetts, relative to the Point Judith Faun.
The subscribers having been appointed a committee by the Honorable the General As-
sembly to take into consideration and report what is proper to be done upon the petition
preferred by Mr. Edward Kitchen Wolcott, of Brookline, in the state of Massachusetts
Bay, setting forth, that his wife is entitled to one-quarter part of the farm called the Point
Judith farm, lying in South Kingstown, heretofore belonging to Henry Sewall, Esq.,
deceased, which hath been taken into posssession by this state ; and praying that the
same may be delivered to him in right of his said wife, to be holden as tenant in com-
mon with this state, until a division shall be made ; and that he may be paid one-
quarter part of the rents thereof, which have been received by this state, do report,
that after having carefully examined the subject matter of the said petition, and the
proofs adduced in support thereof, do find :
1st. That Henry Sewall, Esq., being possessed of the said Point Judith farm, did,
on the 11th day ol August, A. D. 1767, make his will, and devised one-half thereof to
his son, Samuel Sewall ; and the other half to his son, Henry Sewall, as tenants in
common, and to their respective heirs and assigns, for ever.
2d. That the said Henry Sewall, the testator, died, on the 29th day of May, A. D.
1771, leaving one daughter, Hannah Sewall, who married the petitioner.
3d. That Henry Sewall, eldest brother of the petitioner's wife, died on the 17th of
October, A. D. 1772, intestate, and without issue.
4th. That after the death of the said Henry, her brother, the petitioner's wife, and
her brother Samuel Sewall Avere the only surviving children of the said Henry, the
testator.
5th. That of consequence, the said Hannah, and her brother, Samuel Sewall, ap-
pear to be the only legal heirs of the said Henry, her brother.
6th. That the said Hannah, the wife of the petitioner, is heiress at law, and entitled
to one-quarter part of the whole estate which belonged to her father, at Point
Judith and would inherit the same, was there no intervention of the Legislature to
prevent it.
And as it appears from a certificate of the selectmen of the town of Brookline, that
they look upon the petitioner to be a good friend to the United States, your committee
further report, as their opinion, that it will be just and proper to grant the prayer of
the said petition, and beg leave to recommend the same accordingly.
THEODORE FOSTER, WILLIAM CHANNING.
ADAM COMSTOCK,
The aforegoing having been reported to the General Assembly at their session in
August last, when it was suggested that John Hull, the original proprietor of the said
Point Judith farm, had by his will devised the same, in such manner, that the said
farm was subject to an entailment, to the exclusion of the present petitioner ; where-
upon the matter was re-committed for further considera.ion ; your committee therefore
do report :
That on further examination, they find, from an original record, duly certified, that
the said John Hull died intestate ; that after his decease, a division of his estate was
agreed upon by his heirs, and established by a court for the county of Suffolk ; and
that it does not appear to your committee that the said estate was entailed, as has
been suggested. THEODORE FOSTER,
WILLIAM CHANNING,
ADAM COMSTOCK.
1779.] AND PROVIDENCE PLANTATIONS. 609
And the said report being duly considered, —
It is voted and resolved, that the same be, and hereby is,
accepted ; and that agreeably thereto, the prayer of the
said petition be, and the same is hereby, granted ; that the
possession of one-quarter part of the said farm be delivered
to the said Edward K. Wolcott, in right of his wife, to be
holden as tenant in common with this state ; and that one-
quarter part of the rents thereof already received by this
state, be paid to him ; provided nevertheless, that this re-
solve, granting the prayer of the said petition, shall not af-
fect any right or title this state may have to the said farm,
in case it shall hereafter appear that the same was the
property of Samuel Sewrall at the time the whole of the said
farm was taken into possession by this state.
It is further voted and resolved, that the sum of £13 10.?.,
lawful money, being one-half part of the committee's ac-
count, to wit : Theodore Foster, William Channing and
Adam Comstock, be allowed and paid them out of the gen-
eral treasury ; the, remaining half-part of the said commit-
tee's account, Edward K. Wolcott, the petitioner, having
agreed to pay.
And it is further voted and resolved, that the same com-
mittee be, and they are hereby, empowered and directed to
examine what rents have been received by this state for the
said Point Judith farm, and to ascertain the balance due to
the said Edward K. Wolcott, agreeably to the aforegoing
resolve ; they charging him with one-quarter part of the
taxes assessed on the said farm, and having due considera-
tion to the stock thereon ; and that the said committee
make report as soon as may be.
An Act for the confiscating the estates of certain persons
therein described.
Whereas, all countries have a right to the personal ser-
vices of its inhabitants, the greatest exertions of whom, in
their different capacities, are especially requisite for the de-
fence and protection of their lives, liberties and properties,
010 RECORDS OF THE STATE OF RHODE ISLAND [OCT.,
during the actual invasion of enemies; and a refusal or
withdrawing the same, being against the rights of human
society, and the being voluntarily adherent to public ene-
mies, by giving them aid or comfort, or the seeking of their
protection, amount to a total renunciation of all former
rights, privileges and inheritances, whatever ; and whereas,
since the King and Parliament of Great Britain, have tyran-
nically framed, and attempted with fleets and armies to in-
troduce into these United States, a most cruel system. of
despotism ; at the same time declaring the inhabitants
thereof out of their protection ; sundry of said inhabitants,
regardless of their ties and obligations aforesaid, have left
their habitations, joined and been adherent to the enemies
aforesaid, thereby giving them aid and comfort ; or contin-
ued to reside in places invaded by, or in the power of, said
enemies, and have voluntarily aided or abetted them ;
therefore, —
Be it enacted by this General Assembly, and by the authori-
ty thereof it is enacted, that every inhabitant and member
of the late colony, now state, of Rhode Island and Providence
Plantations, or of any other of the late colonies or provinces,
now United States, of America, who since the 19th day of
April, A. D. 1775, hath levied war, or conspired to levy
war, against any of the said provinces or colonies, or United
States, or who hath adhered to the said King of Great
Britain, his fleets or armies, enemies of the said provinces
or colonies, or United States, thereby affording them aid or
comfort; or who, since the said 19th day of April, A. D.
1775, hath withdrawn, without the permission of the legis-
lative or executive authority of this or some other of the
said colonies or provinces, or United States, from any of
them, into parts or places under the acknowledged authori-
ty and dominion of the said King of Great Britain, or into
any other parts or places within the limits of any of the
said provinces or colonies, or United States, being in the
actual possession and under the power of the fleets or ar-
mies of the said King ; and who hath died in any of the
1779.] AND PROVIDENCE PLANTATIONS. 611
said parts or places, or hath not returned into some one of*
the said United States, and been received as a subject there-
of; or hath continued to reside in places invaded by, or in
the power of, said enemies, and have voluntarily aided, as-
sisted or abetted them, shall be held, taken, deemed and
judged to have voluntarily renounced all civil and political
relation to each and every of the said United States, and be
considered as an alien.
And be it further enacted by the authority aforesaid, that
all and every the lands, tenements and hereditaments what-
soever, whether held in fee simple, fee tail, for term of life
or years ; and all estates in remainder or reversion, and all
goods and chattels, rights and credits, of every kind, and all
other estates and interests whatsoever, of which any of the
persons herein before described, were seized or possessed,
or were entitled to have and demand, to and for their use,
benefit and behoof, shall be forfeited, inure and accrue to
the Governor and Company of this state, and accordingly
are declared so to be forfeited, inure and accrue, to be and
remain for their sole use, benefit and behoof, in as full and
ample manner as the persons aforesaid were, or were enti-
tled to be, seized or possessed of the same.
Aud whereas, it is necessary that some mode of trial
should be instituted, whereby to determine what estates are
forfeited by force of this act ; and whereby those persons,
who may be accused of offences in this act described, may
have their estates defended in the best manner that their
situations will admit of, —
Be it therefore enacted by the authority aforesaid, that
the attorney general of this state, or such other person or
persons as shall be appointed by the General Assembly for
that purpose, may, and shall, exhibit to the justices of the
superior court of judicature, &c, an information or com-
plaint, against any person who hath offended in manner be-
fore in this act described ; and who at the time of such
offence commited, or at any time, whereby the same is. or
may be, forfeitable, according to this act, owned or held any
612 RECORDS OF THE STATE OF RHODE ISLAND [OCT.,
lands, tenements or hereditaments, whether held in fee sim-
ple, fee tail, for term of life or years, or any estates in re-
mainder or reversion, or any goods or chatties, rights or
credits, or any other estate or interest whatsoever, within
the county for which said court shall be holden, therein set-
ting forth clearly and plainly the offence such person is
charged with, and a full and true description of the estate in
such complaint or information demanded as forfeited.
And be it further enacted by the authority aforesaid, that
any information or complaint which shall be exhibited to
the justices of said court, the said court shall continue to the
then next term of said court, which shall be holden in the
same county where the same lands, tenements, and other
estates or interests, lie.
Provided nevertheless, and be it further enacted, that the
justices of the superior court be empowered specially to con-
vene on the second Thursday in November next, at Provi-
dence, to receive such complaints or informations as shall be
then exhibited to them, agreeably to this act ; and the jus-
tices of said court shall thereupon continue the said com-
plaints or informations, those which may respect the lands
or other estates being in the county of Newport, to a special
superior court of judicature, &c, to be holden at Tiverton,
in the county of Newport, on the first Monday of January
next ; that the complaints or informations which may re-
spect lands or other estates in the county of Kings, be con-
tinued to a special superior court of judicature, &c, to be
holden in the county of Kings on the the third Monday in
January next ; and those informations or complaints which
may respect lands or other estates being in the county of
Bristol, to a special superior court of judicature, &c, to be
holden in the county of Bristol on the last Monday in Janu-
ary next ; and the justices of the said superior court are
hereby empowered to meet at the times and places above
mentioned, to try and determine said informations and com-
plaints, agreeably to this act.
Be it further enacted by the authority aforesaid, that a
1779.] AND PROVIDENCE PLANTATIONS. 613
number of jurors be drawn in the towns of Tiverton and
Little Compton, to attend said court to be held in the
county of Newport, agreeably to law ; and that the said
court cause a number of jurors sufficient for filling said jury
to be taken up in the manner as is directed in the act of
this Assembly heretofore empowering said court to meet in
said town of Tiverton ; that jurors be drawn in the counties
of Kings and Bristol, to attend said courts to be held with-
in said counties as are directed by law, to be drawn to at-
tend the several courts within said counties ; and that if any
town neglect to draw jurors, or if any person who is drawn
a juror, shall neglect to attend said courts, agreeably to this
act, the delinquent town or juror shall be subject to the
same penalty as in other cases is by law provided.
And it is further enacted by the authority aforesaid, that
the said justices shall order their clerk of the court, to
which the said complaint or information shall be exhibited,
to make out a notification thereof, containing a description
of the lands and tenements, or any other estate, whether
real or personal, alledged to have been forfeited as aforesaid,
and shall cause the sheriff, or his deputy, to insert an at-
tested copy thereof in all the newspapers printed in this
state, within thirty days after the rising of the court to
which complaint or information shall be made ; and to leave
an attested copy thereof at the mansion house of the prem-
ises demanded ; or in case there be no mansion house, to
post up the same in some public place in the town in which
such lands or other estates lie ; and shall also cause an at-
tested copy of such notification to be left at the last and
usual place of abode of the person accused, if any he had
within this state, thirty days at Least before the sitting of
the court to which the same suit shall be continued ; and at
the term or meeting of said court to which the said com-
plaint or information shall be continued as aforesaid, the
said court shall proceed to the trial of the same, unless
there shall appear good and sufficient reason for a further
continuance ; first causing proclamation to be made for any
614 RECORDS OF THE STATE OF RHODE ISLAND [OCT.,
person or persons who have claim to the same estate, in
such information or complaint mentioned, described and de-
manded, either in their own right, or on the part and be-
half of the person accused, or of any person whomsoever, to
come and defend the same suit ; and said court shall admit
as a party any person or persons who shall appear to take the
defence of the same upon him or them as aforesaid ; and
the issue shall be tried by a jury in the known and ordinary
course of law used and approved in this state, to try
whether such estate demanded, or any part thereof, is for-
feited by force of this act ; and if such jury shall return
their verdict that they find the same estates, or any part
thereof, forfeited as aforesaid, the court shall proceed to give
judgment thereon, and issue their writ of execution in be-
half of the said Governor and Company, to cause them to
be seized or possessed of the same.
And be it further enacted by the authority aforesaid, that
when judgment shall be given by the superior court of ju-
dicature, &c, for the forfeiture of the estate of any such per-
son accused as aforesaid, that in all prosecutions for other
parts of such person's estate in any county within this state,
the only question shall be, whether the estate demanded, is
the property of the person, a part of whose estate hath been
adjudged forfeited as aforesaid ; and all complaints or infor-
mations, pleas and issues, shall be regulated accordingly,
and no evidence of such adjudication shall be allowed other
than the record of the same, or an authenticated copy
thereof.
Provided always, and be it further enacted by the au-
thority aforesaid, that all the debts justly due, before the
time of the commission of the offence, to any subject of the
United States, from any of the persons who arc afore de-
scribed in this act, shall be payable out of their respective
estates.
Resolved, that a copy of this act be inserted in the next
Providence newspapers.
It is voted and resolved, that James M. Varnuin and Wei-
1779.] AND PROVIDENCE PLANTATIONS. G15
come Arnold, Esqs., and Mr. John Brown be, and they are
hereby, appointed a committee to inquire into, and report,
the most probable and expeditious ways and means of fur-
nishing this state with small arms, accoutrements, and mili-
tary and ordnance stores ; and that they make report to
this Assembly, at the next session.
It is voted and resolved, that James M. Varnum, Esq., be,
and he is hereby, appointed to assist the attorney general
in the prosecution of informations which may be filed before
the superior court within this state, agreeably to an act of
this Assembly for confiscating the estates of persons therein
described.
It is voted and resolved, that the Honorable Jabez Bowen,
Esq., James M. Varnum and Henry Ward, Esqs., be, and
they are hereby, appointed a committee to draught a letter
to His Excellency General Washington, and the delegates
of this state in Congress, upon the subject of the troops
being called from this state, and present the same to His
Excellency the Governor, by him to be approved, signed
and forwarded as soon as may be ; and that they lay a
copy of the said letters, before this Assembly, at the next
session.
It is voted and resolved, that a council of wrar be, and
they are hereby, appointed with the same powers and au-
thority as was granted by an act of this Assembly, which
first appointed the said council in December, A. D. 1776 j
that the members of the said council be allowed the sum of
£6, lawful money, per day, for each and every day they shall
be employed in attending upon the same, in full compensa-
tion for their services and expenses.
Whereas, this Assembly have been informed that large
quantities of salt are now purchasing up in Newport on the
public account; and whereas, this state is in a very dis-
tressed situation on account of the great scarcity of that ar-
ticle, owing to the embargoes in the neighboring states, and
the distress will be still further increased, in case the salt now
616 RECORDS OF THE STATE OF RHODE ISLAND [OCT.,
in the state be exported therefrom, as no channel of supply
can at present be opened while the embargoes continue, —
It is therefore voted and resolved, that the Honorable Ja-
bez Bo wen, Esq., Peter Phillips, Esq., and Mr. Isaac Senter
be, and they are hereby, appointed a committee to wait up-
on the Honorable Maj. General Gates, to know of him what
quantities of salt have been found in Newport ; and to rep-
resent to him the absolute necessity of disposing of the same
for the use of the inhabitants of this state, and recommend
that no greater quantity be taken for public use than will
be sufficient for supplying this department ; and that Gen.
Gates be requested to order that the salt taken from the
disaffected persons be delivered to the said committee, to be
disposed of as this Assembly shall hereafter direct,
It is voted and resolved, that Mr. John Hawkins be, and
he is hereby, appointed a referree upon the submission be-
fore this Assembly, between William Gorton and Stephen
Potter, in the room of Col. Thomas Potter, who hath declined
serving ; and that they make report to this Assembly at the
next session.
Both houses being joined in a grand committee, made
choice of the following persons to constitute the council of
war, to wit :
Members of the Council of War Chosen.
His Excellency William Greene, Esq., Governor.
The Hon. Jabez Bowen, Esq., Deputy Governor.
Esek Hopkins, John Jenckes, Gideon Comstock, Caleb
Gardner, Pardon Gray, Thomas Rumreill, Joshua Babcock,
Samuel Babcock, Jonathan T. Haszard, Peter Phillips, Paul
Mumford, William Bradford, Nathan Miller, Thomas Tilling-
hast and James Arnold, Esqs.
It is voted and resolved, that John Case, now confined in
jail in the county of Kings, by order of this Assembly, at
the present session, on suspicion of his having been con-
cerned in drafting a threatening and insulting libel, and af-
1770.] AND PROVIDENCE PLANTATIONS. 017
fixing the same before the door of Othniel Gorton, Esq., be
liberated from his confinement, on his giving bond, before
Samuel Babcock, Esq., with sufficient sureties for his good
behavior, and his appearance at the next superior court of
judicature, &c, to be holden in the county of Kent, to an-
swer such charges as may then be exhibited against him.
Voted and resolved, that the following accounts be paid
out of the general treasury, viz. :
.£ s. (/.
Major James Sumner, for subsistence 75 00 0
Enoch Hazard, for repairing the ferries at South Kingstown and Jamestown, GOO 00 0
Paul Mumford, for his time, horse hire and expenses, for attending the coun-
cil of war, as a member ... G3 16 0
William Channing, for services and expenses as clerk of the house 29 13 0
John Waite, for carrying express to South Kingstown 7 00 0
Christopher Greene, as one of the committee for examining and removing dis-
affected persons 79 12 0
Mathew Allen, for victuals, drink and horse keeping furnished the commit-
tee to examine and remove disaffected persons 51 11 G
Haszard Champlin, for wood furnished for the General Assembly at the
present session 6 00 0
Paris Gardner, for attendance on the Assembly as waiter, for carrying ex-
presses, cleaning court house, &c 35 02 0
Nathaniel Helme, for attendance as waiter 19 10 0
God save the United States of America.
Public Acts Passed at the May, June, August* September and
October Sessions of the General Assembly.
An Act to prevent the fish from being obstructed in their course into Puncatest, alias
Nomquit Pond, and the branches of the river running into said pond, lying in Tiv-
ton. (May.)
An Act regulating the toll to be taken by millers. (May.)
An Act for dividing the second battalion of militia in the county of Kings into two bat-
talions. (May.)
An Act in addition to an act for the more effectual preventing the fish from being in-
terrupted in their course of Pawcatuck, alias Narragansett river. (May.)
An Act assessing and apportioning a tax of .£60,000, lawf.d money, upon the inhabit-
ants of the state. (Jui. 3.)
An Act assessing and apportioning a tax of .£225,000, lawful money, upon the inhabit-
ants of this state, for the payment of the Continental tax apportioned to this state by
a resolution of Congress. (June,)
An Act for raising fines for not appearing to mend highways. (August.)
An Act to prevent non-commissioned officers and soldiers raised by this state, or doing
duty within the same, from being carried off in any vessel by sea. (September.)
vol. viii. 7S
618 RECORDS OF THE STATE OF RHODE ISLAND [DEC,
An Act to raise the sum of £100,000, lawful money, to supply the Continental loan of-
fice in this state, with its quota of the §20,000,000, recommended by Congress to be
furnished by the inhabitants of the United States, upon loan. (September.)
An Act empowering the superior court of judicature, court of assize and general jail de-
livery, to take cognizance of all acts of piracy and felony committed on the high sea.
( September. )
An Act for inquiring into the conduct of persons employed, and not immediately ap-
pointed by Congress, in the staff departments of the army within this state. (Sep-
tember.)
An Act prohibiting slaves being sold out of the state, against their consent. (Oc-
tober.)
An Act prohibing the breaking bulk of prize vessels, &c, until condemnation, or per-
mission be obtained therefor. (October.)
An Act laying an embargo. (October.)
An Act for the preservation of the public buildings in this state, erected or improved
for the use of the army ; and for appropriating to the use of the public, the lands
where they are erected, and where batteries or fortresses have been made, and for
obliging individuals to account for public property which may fall into their pos-
session. (October.)
An Act for augmenting the fines laid upon the non-attendance of the independent
troop of horse in the county of Providence, called the Captain General's Cavaliers.
(October.)
An Act for the better forming, regulating and conducting the militia force in the state.
(October.)
Proceedings of the General Assembly, held for the State of Bhode
Island and Providence Plantations, at Providence, on the second
Monday in December, 1779.
His Excellency William Greene, Governor.
The Hon. Jabez Bowen, Deputy Governor.
A general subsistence abstract for Col. Israel Angell's
regiment, for the months of September, October and No-
vember last past, having been laid before this Assembly,
and duly examined, —
It is voted and resolved, that $15,191 25, in Continental
money, being the sum due thereon, be allowed and paid out
of the general treasury, to discharge the same, in the fol-
lowing manner, to wit: $12,857 25, to Major Simeon
Thayer, to be carried on to the regiment, to be paid to the
officers and soldiers to whom the same is due respectively ;
and $2,334, to the town councils of the several towns in
1779.] AND PROVIDENCE PLANTATIONS. 619
which the families of the non-commissioned officers and pri-
vates reside, for their support, agreeably to the list present
ed to this Assembly.
Whereas. William Rhodes, Esq., sheriff of the county of
Providence, who was directed at the last session to take into
possession certain lands in Glocester, belonging to Robert
Auchmuty and others, &c, presented unto this Assembly the
following report, to wit :
Bejiort of the Sheriff of Providence Count// to the General Asscm-
sembli/, relative to his taking possession of certain lands in
Glocester, d:c.
In pursuance of the order of the General Assembly, at the last session, I have pro-
ceeded into the town of Glocester, and made inquiry of Richard Steere, Esq., the town
clerk, who gave me the information and description of three tracts of land formerly laid
out to Col. Estes Hatch and partners, which is herewith presented; that I attached the
same for the state, as the property of the persons in the vote of the Assembly men-
tioned ; that the said lands being entirely wild and unimproved, I cannot find that any
person hath had any profit thereof; and that there is no other land in Glocester which
appears in any wise to belong to the said persons.
Fees £24. WILLIAM RHODES, Sheriff.
And the said report being duly considered, —
It is voted and resolved, that the same be, and hereby is,
accepted.
It is voted and resolved, that John Jenckes, Esq., be and
he is hereby, appointed to receive of Mr. Cromel Child the pig
iron, shot and sea-coal in his hands, belonging to this state ;
and that he have the said pigs manufactured into bar iron ;
and dispose of the shot and coal to the best advantage for
the state.
It is voted and resolved, that the agent-clothier receive of
Capt. John Garzia $12 for each pair of shoes, and $6 for
each pair of stockings, ordered to be delivered him for the
use of Col. Robert Elliott's regiment, by a resolution of the
council of war, of the 3d instant ; and that the said agent-
clothier be accountable for the money by him so received,
to this state.
It is voted and resolved, that John Reynolds, Esq., agent-
620 RECORDS OF THE STATE OF RHODE ISLAND [DEC,
clothier, purchase leather sufficient to make two hundred
pair of shoes ; that he have the same manufactured by the
soldiers of General Cornell's brigade ; and that he deliver
the shoes as the General Assembly or council of war shall
order from time to time.
It is voted and resolved, that the general treasurer be,
and he is hereby, directed not to dispose of the Continental
loan office certificates now in the treasury of this state, until
the further orders of this Assembly.
It is voted and resolved, that the sum of £145 16s., law-
ful money, be allowed and paid to Mr. Stephen Franklin,
out of the general treasury, for corn taken from him by
the town council of the town of Westerly ; it being the sum
paid by the said town council therefore, into the general
treasury.
It is voted and resolved, that John Reynolds, Esq., the
agent-clothier, deliver to Mr. Nathaniel Mumford, the state-
clothier, three hundred shirts and two hundred hats, for the
use of the two Continental battalions raised by this state ;
and that Welcome Arnold, Esq., and Mr. John I. Clark be,
and they are hereby, appointed a committee to agree with the
said John Reynolds upon the price which shall be allowed
the state for the same.
Whereas, there c.re divers resolutions of Congress, and
public letters of great importance, now laying before this
Assembly, which require immediate consideration, —
It is therefore voted and resolved, that John Sayles, Paul
Mumford, David Howell, Metcalf Bowler and Theodore Fos-
ter, Esqs., be, and they are hereby, appointed a commits e
for that purpose ; and that they make report thereon, as
soon as may be.
The petition of divers inhabitants of the town of New-
port, presented unto this Assembly, praying that Capt. John
Stanton, now a prisoner of war at Providence, may be per-
mitted to go to Newport, and remain with his family, until
called for by his parole, being duly considered, —
It is voted and resolved, that the said John Stanton be,
1779.] AND PROVIDENCE PLANTATIONS. G21
and he is hereby, permitted to reside with his family at
Newport, under the direction of General Cornell.
Whereas, a number of vessels were heretofore sunk by
the enemy in the harbor of Newport, having on board a
quantity of provisions and other articles ; and others have
been burnt on the shores of this state, from the wrecks
of which many valuable articles may be taken ; where-
fore,—
It is voted and resolved, that Caleb Gardner, Esek Hop-
kins John Northup, Nathan Miller and Adam Comstock,
Esqs., be, and they are hereby, appointed a committee, to
employ proper persons, upon the most reasonable terms they
can, in taking out of the said vessels, for the use of this state,
the goods and effects which remain therein, or appertain to
the same ; or otherwise dispose of the said goods and ves-
sels at public vendue, as shall appear to the said committee
most for the advantage of this state ; and that they make
report thereon, to this Assembly.
It is voted and resolved, that Mr. James Carpenter be,
and he is hereby, permitted to take into possession hi* real
estate in the town of Bristol, which hath been leased by or-
der of this Assembly ; that the said James Carpenter re-
ceive the rents due for the present year ; and that he be
paid the rents which have been received by the state, when
the same shall be ascertained.
The petition of Christopher Ellery, Esq., preferred unto
this Assembly, praying that he may have liberty to trans-
port through this state a quantity of provisions coming
from his farm in Connecticut, for the use of his family, be-
ing duly considered, —
It is voted and resolved, that the said petition be, and the
same his hereby, granted.
Whereas, a large number of the inhabitants of the town
of South Kingstown, and others, have petitioned this Assem-
bly, that a certain bill respecting the fishery in the Point
Judith ponds, which was presented unto this Assembly,
should not be passed into an act ; that certain laws hereto-
622 RECORDS OF THE STATE OF RHODE ISLAND [DEC,
fore made respecting the said fishery be repealed ; and that
the rights and privileges of the people at large should be
ascertained respecting the said fishery ; and this Assembly
having received said petition, and referred the consideration
thereof unto the next session of this Assembly, by adjourn-
ment,—
Do vote and it is voted and resolved, that the said petition be
then heard, on the third day of the next session ; that all per-
sons who lay claim to the said ponds, and imagine they have
exclusive rights of fishing therein, may, if they see fit, appear
then, and be heard upon the premises ; and that this resolu-
tion be published three weeks successively in all the news-
papers in the state.
Whereas, Capt. Silas Talbot, commander of the sloop
Argo, a vessel of war, fitted out, pursuant to a resolution of
Congress, for the immediate defence of this state, hath rep-
resented unto this Assembly, that the said vessel is now in
the harbor of Proviclene, having a number of men, stores
and provisions on board, sufficient for a cruize against the
enemies of the United States of America, and hath applied
to this Assembly for directions in what manner to proceed
with the said vessel ; and as the said vessel and men are
employed at the expense of the public, their remaining in
this state the present winter will not probably tend so much
to the public good as if employed in a cruize on the high
seas against the enemies of these United States, —
It is therefore voted and resolved, agreeably to the re-
quest of the said Silas Talbot, that a commission be granted
him to proceed on a cruize ; and that he be, and hereby is,
directed to observe such instructions as he shall receive
with the said commission from His Excellency the Governor.
Whereas, in pursuance of an act of this Assembly, infor-
mations have been filed against the estates of certain per-
sons who have withdrawn themselves with the enemy
from this or some other of the United States of America ;
or have voluntarily aided or assisted the enemy ; and
whereas, several actions have been commenced by private
1779.] AND PROVIDENCE PLANTATIONS. 023
persons, and some of them are now pending in the courts of
law within this state, against the persons who have so aided
or assisted the enemy, —
It is therefore voted and resolved, that the said actions,
and all proceedings thereon, be stayed ; and that no action
in future be commenced or prosecuted against any of the
persons or estates of those against whom informations have
been, or may be, filed, agreeably to the said act.
It is further voted and resolved, that this Assembly will,
after the determination of the said informations, take such
steps respecting the claims upon the said estates, as shall
be conducive to justice, and enable the creditors to obtain
their just demands ; and that a copy hereof, be published in
the Providence newspapers.
It is voted and resolved, that Mr. Amos Cheeseborough
be, and he is hereby, permitted to remove from the town of
Westerly, into the state of Connecticut, one horse, one cow,
seven sheep, and the household furniture lately belonging
to Ann Gavet, formerly of said Westerly, but now the wife
of the said Amos Cheeseborough.
The rate-list for the town of Tiverton's proportion of the
last Continental tax, ordered by this Assembly, not having
been delivered to the general treasurer in season, —
It is therefore voted and resolved, that the general treas-
urer be, and he is hereby, directed to issue his warrant to
the collector of taxes of the said town, to collect its propor-
tion of the said tax, and to pay the same, with the inter-
est due thereon, into the general treasury ; and that the said
warrant shall be returnable in twenty days after the rising
of this Assembly.
Whereas, Samuel Freebody, Esq., of Newport, preferred a
petition unto this Assembly, representing that the estate
lately advertised in the public papers as the property of
John Freebody, in consequence of an act made at the last
October session, entitled, u An act for confiscating the es-
tates of certain persons therein described," is not the estate
of the said John Freebod}% but was the estate of his mother,
624 RECORDS OF THE STATE OF RHODE ISLAND [DEC,
Mrs. Judith Freebody, who died intestate, while the British
troops were in possession of the town of Newport, leaving
issue six children, all of whom have a right therein ; and
therefore prayed that all proceedings against the said John
Freebody may be stayed ; which being duly considered, —
It is voted and resolved, that the information against the
estate of the said John Freebody, pending before the supe-
rior court, to be holden at Tiverton, on the first Monday of
January next, be continued to the March term of said court,
to be holden in the county of Newport,
Whereas, by the act of this Assembly, for raising a brig-
ade of troops, to do duty within this state, no provision is
made, by which any officer or soldier doing service therein,
who may be charged with being the putative father of a
bastard child or children, may be taken upon a warrant
issued for the indemnification of the town to which such
child or children is or are liable to become chargeable ; and
whereas, disputes have arisen respecting the legality of such
warrants so issued, —
It is therefore voted and resolved, that any officer or sol-
dier, belonging to the said brigade, who hath, or may be,
charged as the putative father of a bastard child or children
as aforesaid, shall be liable to the maintenance of such child
or children, agreeably to law ; that the usual process issue
against such officer or soldier ; and that thereupon the
commanding officer of the said brigade be, and he is here-
by, directed to permit the same to be executed, that such
officer or soldier may be dealt with agreeably to law.
It is voted and resolved, that a tax of $400,000 be as-
sessed upon the inhabitants of this state, for the payment
of this state's proportion of the tax recommended by Con-
gress ; that one-half part thereof, be collected and paid to
the keeper of the Continental loan office, by the 1st day of
February next ; and the other half part thereof, by the 1st
day of March next ; that the said one-half part thereof, be
levied, collected and paid into the treasury of this state,
for the purpose aforesaid, by the said 1st day of February
1779.] AND PROVIDENCE PLANTATIONS. 625
next, and the other half part, by the said 1st day of March
next ; that William Richmond, Welcome Arnold, Rowse J.
Helme, Thomas Hold en and Nathan Miller, Esqs., be, and
they are hereby, appointed a committee to apportion the
said tax to the several towns within this state ; and that
they make report as soon as may be.
It is voted and resolved, that the resolution of the council
of war, empowering Mr. Valentine Wightman to purchase
and transport to Boston fifty hogsheads of tobacco, agreea-
bly to the request of the navy board, be, and the same is
hereby, repealed.
It is further voted and resolved, that the resolution of the
council of war, permitting Mr. Samuel Goldthwait to pro-
ceed in a flag to New York, be, and the same is hereby, re-
pealed.
It is voted and resolved, that Mr. Zebedee Grinnell, Esek
Hopkins, Joseph Stanton, Jr., Adam Comstock and Benja-
min Bourne, Esqs., be, and they are hereby, appointed a
committee to draft a bill for the amendment of the act for
assessing of taxes upon individuals in the several towns
within this state.
Whereas, the time for which many of the non-commis-
sioned officers and soldiers entered in the Continental bat-
talion raised by this state, commanded by Col. Israel Angell,
is nearly expired, and Congress have recommended to this
state to keep up their quota of troops as much as possible,
for public defence ; wherefore, —
It is voted and resolved, that Jonathan Arnold, Paul
Mumford, David Howell and Rowse J. Helme, Esqs., be, and
they are hereby, appointed a committee to consider of the
best ways and means to recruit the said battalion ; and that
they report as soon as possible.
The petition of Mr. John Croswell, preferred unto this
Assembly, representing that he is nowr a prisoner on parole
in the town of Providence, without money or business ; and
that he hath a mother and family in the town of Newport,
who are very poor and needy, and praying that he may be
vol. viit. 79
626 RECORDS OF THE STATE OF RHODE ISLAND [DEC,
permitted to remain in this country, that by his industry he
may be enabled to relieve his distressed family, being duly
considered, —
It is voted and resolved, that the said John Croswell be,
and he is hereby, permitted to return to Newport, there to
continue under the direction of General Cornell, until the
further orders of this Assembly, or of the council of war.
It is voted and resolved, that the committee heretofore
appointed to take an estimate of the rateable property
within this state, be, and they are hereby, instructed not to
estimate the islands lately in the possession of the enemy,
until the further orders of this Assembly.
A pay abstract for Sergeant John Pearce's guard, consist-
ing of twenty men, doing duty on the shores of North
Kingstown, for seventy-eight days, exhibted unto this As-
sembly, being duly considered, together with the auditor's
report thereon, —
It is voted and resolved, that the amount thereof, being
£468, lawful money, be allowed and paid out of the general
treasury to the said John Pearce, to be by him paid to the
respective persons named in the said abstract.
Whereas, it is represented unto this Assembly, that the
inhabitants of the town of Bristol are in great distress for
the want of fire-wood, arising from the scarcity thereof; and
that there is a considerable quantity of the said article
which may be spared from the farm lately belonging to
John Borland, Esq., now in the possession of this state ;
wherefore, —
It is voted and resolved, that permission be given to cut
one hundred cords of wood on the said farm, for the use of
the inhabitants of the said town ; that fifty cords thereof,
be distributed gratis, by the town council of the said town,
among such of the inhabitants as they shall judge to be ob-
jects of charity ; that the remaining fifty cords be distribut-
ed by the said council, among the other inhabitants of the
said town, as may stand most in need of the same, they
paying therefor at the rate of £12 per cord ; that Richard
1779.] AND PROVIDENCE PLANTATIONS. 627
Smith, Esq., collect the money arising from the sale thereof,
and pay the same into the general treasury of this state ;
that the said Richard Smith oversee the cutting and meas-
uring of the same, taking special care that as little injury
as possible be done to the said farm ; and that he be paid
for his expenses and services in and about the said town of
Bristol.
Whereas, a large ship-anchor, and a quantity of other iron
articles, left by the enemy in the harbor of Newport, and
which of course became the property of this state, have
been brought to Providence by Capt. Jeremiah Clarke, com-
mander of the Pigot galley, and the other officers and
mariners thereof, who are justly entitled to an allowance for
their services ; and as certain of those articles are claimed
by divers persons, either as purchasers, or as having assisted
in securing the same, —
It is therefore voted and resolved, that His Honor the
Deputy Governor, and Esek Hopkins, Esq., be, and they
are hereby, appointed a committee, and fully empowered, to
ascertain the allowances which ought to be made to the cap-
tain, other officers and mariners of the said galley, for their
aforementioned services, and to determine the claims of all
persons to any of the aforesaid articles ; that the said an-
chor be reserved until further orders ; that the other arti-
cles be delivered to John Jenckes, Esq., who is hereby di-
rected to dispose of the same, with the other iron ordered to
be delivered to him by Mr. Cromel Child, agreeably to a
resolve passed at this session ; and that the said committee
make report to the council of war, as soon as may be.
His Excellency the Governor having laid before this As-
sembly an order from Congress, dated the 12th day of No-
vember last, upon the keeper of the Continental loan office
in this state, to pay to the order of the Legislature thereof.
$300,000 —
It is therefore voted and resolved, that His Honor the
Deputy Governor be, and he is hereby empowered and re-
quested to receive the said sum of $300,000 from the
628 RECORDS OF THE STATE OF RHODE ISLAND [DEC,
keeper of the said loan office ; and that he lodge the same
in the general treasury of this state, giving and taking re-
ceipts therefor.
Whereas, Mr. Ichabod Potter preferred a petition unto
this Assembly, representing that Thomas Bannister, late of
Newport, an absentee, was greatly indebted to him ; that
before the present war, he hired of the said Thomas Bannis-
ter a farm, lying in Middletown, in order to discharge the
said debt ; that in General Sullivan's expedition on Rhode
Island, the enemy burnt the dwelling-house on the said
farm, together with the out-houses, his household furniture,
hay, &c. ; that he, with his family, left the said farm, and
retreated with the American army from the said island ;
that there still remains due to him a considerable sum of
money, which he hath no way to obtain, as the estate of the
said Thomas Bannister hath been confiscated to and for the
use of this state, but by the intervention of this Assembly ;
and thereupon the said Ichabod Potter prayed that he may
have a lease given him of the said farm, for a term of time
adequate to the money due to him, without paying any
other rent therefor ; and that he may have the privilege of
making use of one of the barracks on Rhode Island as a
dwelling house upon the said farm ; and the said petition
being duly considered, —
It is voted and resolved, that the said Ichabod Potter be,
and he is hereby, permitted to enter upon the farm hereto-
fore improved by him in Middletown, lately belonging to
Thomas Bannister, and improve the same for the space of
four years, from the 25th day of March next ; that he be
permitted, under the direction of General Cornell, to re-
move one of the barracks, now on the island of Rhode Is-
land, upon the said farm, to be improved by him as a
dwelling-house ; that he pay the taxes, which ma}' be as-
sessed upon the said estate, during the said term ; and that
the improvement of the said estate be in full satisfaction of
the debt due from the said Thomas Bannister to the said
Ichabod Potter.
1779.] AND PROVIDENCE PLANTATIONS. 629
Whereas, from many unforeseen and unavoidable causes,
the pay of the officers and soldiers of the Continental bat-
talions, raised by this state, hath not fully answered their
expectations when they entered the service ; and whereas,
by their proved fidelity, firmness and intrepidity in service,
they merit the particular attention of this state ; and that
whatever deficiencies shall appear to have arisen from the
causes aforesaid, should be made good to them, —
Be it therefore enacted by this General Assembly, and by
the authority thereof it is enacted, that this state will, at the
close of the present war, receive an account of the time which
the officers, non-commissioned officers and soldiers, belong-
ing to this state, shall have served in the said battalions ;
and will then make good to them, or the legal representa-
tives of such of them as shall be then dead, the wages of the
establishment of Congress whereon they engaged, according
to a late act of this state, entitled " An act against monopo-
ly and oppression," taking for a measure of their wages the
prices set to the artices enumerated in the same act ; taking
into consideration, by the same measure, all bounties, sup-
plies, subsistence, refreshments, gratuities and sums already
advanced, or which shall hereafter be given, supplied or ad-
vanced, excepting the Continental bounty of £6, and the
bounties allowed by this state, amounting to £38.
Provided nevertheless, that whenever Congress shall make
the wages of said officers and soldiers good to them as afore-
said, this state shall not be held by this act ; and that this
act shall not extend to those who shall, without an honora-
ble discharge, leave said service before the time for which
they engaged shall expire.
And whereas, it will be much to the advantage of those
men who are now doing duty in the said battalions, to have
their accounts which have already accrued, adjusted and
settled, and the balances paid as soon as possible, —
It is further enacted by the authority aforesaid, that the
council of war convene at any time, when a committee of
630 RECORDS OF THE STATE OF RHODE ISLAND [DEC,
officers of the said battalions shall request to settle and ad-
just all accounts that have already arisen, or shall arise in
manner aforesaid, up to the 31st day of December inst., and
the balances which shall be found due to the said officers,
and those men who have enlisted, or, before the completion
of such settlement, shall enlist into the said battalions to
serve during the present war, shall be paid immediately
after such settlement ; and that the balances which may be
found due to those whose time of service may expire, and
who shall not re-enlist during the war, shall be paid them as
soon as the circumstances of the state will admit.
And whereas, the time of service of part of this state's
proportion of Continental troops is near expiring, and it
will be much to the interest of this and of the United
States to retain the same brave veterans in the service of
their country, —
Be it therefore enacted by the authority aforesaid, that a
bounty of $300 be paid by this state, to each non-com-
missioned officer and soldier, who has enlisted to serve
during the war, as one of this state's quota of Continental
troops, in the regiments commanded by Cols. Christopher
Greene, Henry Sherburne and Israel Angell, and is now in
the service ; provided, that the said bounty do not extend
to those servants who were enlisted into the battalion com-
manded by the said Christopher Greene, on condition of
procuring their freedom by their services.
Be it further enacted by the authority aforesaid, that the
same bounty of $300 be paid by this state, in addition to
the bounty and subsistence allowed by Congress, to each
non-commissioned officer and soldier, who may hereafter
enlist to serve during the war into the battalion command-
ed by the said Israel Angell ; and to each non-commissioned
officer, who may so enlist into the battalion commanded
by the said Christopher Greene.
And be it further enacted by the authority aforesaid, that
each non-commissioned officer and soldier, who shall engage
1779.] AND PROVIDENCE PLANTATIONS. 631
and serve as aforesaid, shall be entitled to receive all the
benefit provided and promised in this act ; and in case the
present war shall continue more than one year from and
after the passing of this act, the accounts arising as afore-
said, shall be settled, and the balances paid at the end of
each year, so long as the same shall continue ; and their
polls shall be exempted from taxes of every kind, and the
estates both real and personal of each officer and soldier,
who shall engage as aforesaid, shall be exempted during
their continuance in service from all town taxes levied for
the purpose of procuring men to go into the army.
Whereas, the justices of the superior court of judicature,
&c, are specially to convene in the counties of Newport,
Kings and Bristol, in the month of January next, —
It is therefore voted and resolved, that the attorney gen-
eral be, and he is hereby, directed in behalf of this state, to
prefer to the said court, when so convened in either of said
counties, informations against the real and personal estates
of all persons whose estates are liable to confiscation, agreea-
bly to an act passed at the last session of this Assembly, and
against which informations have not been already filed.
It is farther voted and resolved, that the said superior
court be, and they are hereby, empowered to receive such
informations, and continue the same for trial to the next
term of the said court in the county within which such es-
tates lie ; and that all other proceedings be had thereon as
is directed in and by the said act.
Whereas, Jeremiah Whipple, Esq., hath represented unto
this Assembly, that the bridge built over Pawtucket river,
between the towns of Cumberland and Smithfield, was first
erected by way of lottery, and hath ever since been repaired
in that way ; that the said bridge is now greatly out of re-
pair; and hath requested, in behalf of the inhabitants of the
said towns, this Assembly to grant a lottery for raising the
sum of £800, lawful money, for repairing the same ; where-
fore,—
632 RECORDS OF THE STATE OF RHODE ISLAND [Dec.
It is voted and resolved, that a lottery be, and hereby is,
granted for raising the said sum of £800, for the purpose
aforesaid, undertheusual conditions and restrictions; and that
Messrs. John Dexter, Elisha Waterman, George Peck and
Jeremiah Scott, of Smithfield, be, and they are hereby, ap-
pointed directors thereof.
Whereas, it hath been represented unto this Assembly,
that certain anchors, and a quantity of old iron, heretofore
belonging to the enemy, but now the property of this state,
have been taken by private persons, from the town and har-
bor of Newport, since the evacuation of that place by the
enemy, and without their having received permission for
that purpose, from the authority of this state ; where-
fore,—
It is voted and resolved, that the committee appointed at
the present session of this Assembly, to take charge of the
vessels which have been sunk, &c, by the enemy, within
the harbor of Newport, be, and they are hereby, empowered
to call before them the persons who are said to be con-
cerned in taking the same, if inhabitants, or to be found
within the state ; and if it shall appear to the said commit-
tee, that the said persons are guilty thereof, and shall refuse
to return or make satisfaction for the same, that they forth-
with cause the necessary and legal prosecutions for the
recovery thereof, to be immediately commenced against
them.
It is further voted and resolved, that if the persons
charged, are not inhabitants of this state, or to be found there-
in, the said committee be, and they are hereby, directed to
make inquiry into the same, and to take the most effectual
measures, in behalf, and for the interest of the state, for the
recovery of the property so taken, or damages for the con-
version thereof.
It is voted and resolved, that Esek Hopkins, Esq., and
Mr. Nathaniel Mumforcl be, and they are hereby, appointed
a committee to ascertain the grants made by this Assembly,
1779.] AND PROVIDENCE PLANTATIONS. 633
from time to time, either as gratuities, refreshments, subsist-
ence or otherwise, to the field, commissioned and staff offi-
cers, and to the non-commissioned officers and private sol-
diers of this state's Continental troops, commanded by Cols.
Christopher Greene, Henry Sherburne and Israel Angell,
excepting the bounty of £6, allowed by Congress, and of
£38, allowed by this state, to the said non-commissioned of-
ficers and soldiers ; that the said committee take for their
rule, the better to ascertain the same, the act of this Assem-
bly, passed at the present session, for settling the accounts
of the said officers and soldiers, and for recruiting the bat-
talion commanded by the said Israel Angell, and Christo-
pher Greene ; and tha': they report to this Assembly, or the
council of war, as soon as may be.
The following statement of the account of Henry Mar-
chant, Esq., a delegate from this state in Congress, and the
auditor's report thereon, being laid before this Assembly,
to wit :
Statement of the Account of Henry Marchant, Delegate in Congress
from Rhode Island.
1779. State of Rhode Island, to Henry Marchant, Dr.
£ s.d.
June 3. To the expenses of myself, servant, and two horses, from June
3, to December 18, 1779, to, at, and from Philadephia, as per
account of particulars 2,089 09 94
To my services, and the use of my two horses, during the above
being one hundred and ninety-eight days, at £12 per day . . . 2,376 00 0
£4,465 09 94
Creditor.
1779.
May 8. By cash received of the general treasurer 600 00 0
Sept. 8. " " " " Michael Hillegas, Esq., Continental treas-
urer, for which this state is accountable 900 00 0
Nov. By cash received of Michael Hillegas, Esq., Continental treasu-
rer, for which this state is accountable 1,800 00 0
£3,300 00 0
Balance due Henry Marchant 1,165 09 94
£4,465 09 94
Errors excepted , HE NR Y MAR I HANT.
VOL. VIII. 80
634 RECORDS OF THE STATE OF RHODE ISLAND [DEC,
Providence, December 19, 1779.
I do report, that I have examined the foregoing charges, which appear, by the orig-
inal entries in the said Henry Marchant's memorandum book, to be right ; that he
produced vouchers for the most material articles of board, washing, horse-keeping, &c,
that the charge for his services is right cast ; and that the articles of credit, of which I
have no knowledge, being right, there is a balance due to the said Henry Marchant of
£1,165 9s. 9irf. NATHANIEL MUMFORD, Auditor.
Which being duly considered, —
It is voted and resolved, that the said report be accepted ;
and that the said balance of £1,165 9s. 9 l-2cl, lawful money,
be paid the said Henry Marchant, out of the general
treasury.
It is voted and resolved, that William Ellery, Esq., be,
and he is hereby, appointed and empowered to meet the
convention of commissioners from the states of New Hamp-
shire, Massachusetts Bay, Ehode Island, Connecticut, New
York, New Jersey, Pennsylvania, Delaware, Maryland and
Virginia, or such of them as shall convene at Philadelphia,
on the first Wednesday of January next, for the purpose of
considering the expediency of limiting the prices of mer-
chandize and produce ; that if they judge such a measure
to be expedient, they proceed to limit the prices of such
of the said articles as they shall think proper, in their sev-
eral states, in such manner as shall be best adapted to their
respective situations and circumstances ; and that they re-
port their proceedings to their respective legislatures ; and
every power necessary thereto, is hereby given and invest-
ed in the said William Ellery, in behalf of this state, in as
full and ample manner as in and by the proceedings of the
convention of the states of New Hampshire, Massachusetts
Bay, Rhode Island, Connecticut and New York, which met
at Hartford, in the state of Connecticut, the 20th day of Oc-
tober last, is advised and recommended.
It is further voted and resolved, that the said William El-
lery be, and he is hereby, also directed to urge to the said
commissioners the absolute necessity of repealing all acts
for laying inland embargoes ; and that the same be strongly
recommended to the respective states ; and His Excellency
1779.] AND PROVIDENCE PLANTATIONS. 635
the Governor is hereby requested to commissionate the said
William Ellery, accordingly.
Whereas, the navy board, at Boston, have appointed Mr.
Valentine Wightman, to purchase and carry from this state,
to Boston, a quantity of tobacco, agreeably to a resolution
of Congress, and have requested permission for transporting
the same to the town of Boston ; and whereas, the said Val-
entine Wightman hath purchased upwards of twenty casks
of tobacco, against which a prosecution hath been com-
menced, upon suggestion that the same was purchased in
violation of an act of this Assembly, laying an inland em-
bargo within this state ; and whereas, it is of great import-
ance to the United States, that the Continental agents
should not be obstructed in their purchases, but that they
should receive every encouragement and assistance in the
same ; wherefore, —
It is voted and resolved, that the tobacco purchased as
aforesaid, be released from the said prosecution ; and that
the same be, and hereby is, permitted to be transported to
Boston, agreeably to the request of the said navy board.
Whereas, John Collins, Esq., one of the delegates from
this state in Congress, made it known to the council of war,
at their last meeting in Newport, that he was prepared to
set off for Philadelphia, to attend his duty in Congress ; and
whereas, this state can be represented in Congress by one
member, until the confederation of all the states shall be es-
tablished, which as yet is not done, —
It is therefore voted and resolved, that it be, and hereby
is, recommended to the said John Collins not to proceed to
Congress, until the further orders of this Assembly.
It is voted and resolved, that Mr. John York be, and he
is hereby, permitted to carry out of the town of South
Kingstown, into the town of Stonington, in the state of
Connecticut, one ton of pig iron, which he bought of Mr.
Phinehas Miner, in September last.
It is voted and resolved, that Major Simeon Thayer be,
and he is hereby, empowered to draw the sum of £15,000,
636 RECORDS OF THE STATE OF RHODE ISLAND [DEC.,
lawful money, out of the general treasury, for paying the
bounties allowed to the men who have enlisted, or may en-
list, into the battalion under the command of Colonel Israel
Angell, agreeably to a resolution of this Assembly ; that the
said Israel Angell, Lieut. Col. Jeremiah Olney, and the said
Simeon Thayer be empowered and requested to distribute
the said money in such a manner as shall best answer the
purpose for which it is granted ; provided, that but one-half
part of the bounty allowed to the non-commissioned officers
and soldiers who have already enlisted during the present
war, be paid out of the money ; and that the remaining sum
be appropriated to the payment of the bounties of such as
shall hereafter enlist, agreeably to the said resolution.
The memorial of Colonel Christopher Greene, and Major
Simeon Thayer, preferred unto this Assembly, praying that
the officers of the two battalions of this state may be fur-
nished with clothing for the year 1780, at moderate
prices, proportioned to their pay, agreeably to a resolve of
Congress, passed November 22, A. D. 1777, being duly con-
sidered,—
It is voted and resolved, that every commissioned officer
in the Continental battalions raised by this state, command-
ed by Cols. Christopher Greene and Israel Angell, be sup-
plied as soon as possible, with the following articles of
clothing for the year 1780, to wit: one hat, one coat, one
waistcoat, one pair of breeches, one pair of boots, two pair
of shoes, three pair of stockings, four shirts and two pocket
handkerchiefs ; that the said articles be purchased by the
agent-clothier, and delivered to the said officers by the state
clothier, in just proportion to their wages ; charging the
surplus of the cost to the United States, agreeably to the
resolves of Congress, respecting the clothier's department.
And it is further voted and resolved, that the officers of
Col. Henry Sherburne's regiment, who belong to this state,
be also supplied with the articles of clothing aforesaid,
upon the same terms and in the same manner as before
mention* d.
1779.] AND PROVIDENCE PLANTATIONS. 637
Whereas, Ephraira Bowen, Jr., Esq., deputy quartermas-
ter genera], made a request to this Assembly for seven hun-
dred cords of wood, for the use of the army, to be delivered
at the following places, to wit :
Providence, - ■ - 400 cords,
Fulling Mill and East Greenwich, - 200 "
Updike's Newtown, - - - 100 '*'
700 "
to be delivered within four weeks after the rising of this
General Assembly ; and represented that the said quantity,
with what can be collected at Tiverton and Freetown, will
serve the troops through the winter ; which being duly
considered, —
It is voted and resolved, that it be, and hereby is, recom-
mended to the inhabitants of this state, to furnish the
wood above requested, for the use of the army, and deliver
it at the places and within the time above mentioned, at
the going prices at the time of the delivery ; and it is re-
commended to the said Ephraim Bowen, Jr., to pay for the
said wood, accordingly.
Whereas, Caleb Gardner, Thomas Rumreill and Christo-
pher Ellery, Esqs., deputies from the town of Newport, pre-
ferred a petition unto this Assembly, representing that the
evacuation of the said town by the British troops was so
late in the season, that the boats first employed in carrying
wood, were taken off to transport forage ; and that the pov-
erty of many of the inhabitants is such, that it was impossi-
ble to supply the said town with wood ; by reason whereof,
they are now in the deepest distress, and must soon perish
for want of that necessary article, or be obliged to quit their
habitations ; and thereupon prayed this Assembly, in behalf
of those unhappy people, to grant a sufficient sum of money
out of the general treasury, to supply the poor inhabitants
of the said town with two hundred cords of wood, or other-
wise grant them relief; and the said petition being duly
considered, —
638 RECORDS OF THE STATE OF RHODE ISLAND [DEC,
It is voted and resolved, that one hundred and sixty
cords of wood be granted for the use of the poor of the
town of Newport, to be distributed under the direction of
the said Caleb Gardner and Peleg Clarke ; that one hun-
dred cords of the said wood be cut off from the farms in the
town of Bristol, lately belonging to Isaac Royal and John
Borland ; and sixty cords thereof, from off the farm in
North Kingstown, lately belonging to Gervas Elam and
George Rome ; that the cutting of the said wrood in Bristol,
be under the direction of Nathan Miller, Esq. ; and of that
in North Kingstown, under the direction of Peter Phillips,
Esq. ; and that the said Caleb Gardner and Peleg Clarke
be empowered to draw the sum of £1,000, lawful money,
out of the general treasury, to pay for cutting, carting and
transporting the said wood to Newport.
It is voted and resolved, that Jonathan Arnold and John
Reynolds, Esqs., be, and they are hereby, appointed a com-
mittee, to make an estimate of what quantity of wool will
be necessary for the state to manufacture into clothing, for
the Continental troops raised by this state ; and to consider
of the best ways and means of purchasing and procuring the
same to be manufactured ; and that they report to this As-
sembly at the next session.
It is voted and resolved, that the recognizance of Stephen
Potter, of South Kingstown, and of his surety, be continued
to the next session ; that he be, and hereby is, ordered to
appear accordingly ; and that the committee appointed to
adjust and settle the several accounts between the said Ste-
phen Potter and William Gorton, make reports to this As-
sembly at the next session.
It is voted and resolved, that Mr. Stephen Peckham be,
and he is hereby, permitted to transport from the town of
Scituate, into the state of Massachusetts Bay, three firkins
of butter, and five hundredweight of cheese, for the pay-
ment of his rent.
Whereas, Capt. Silas Talbot, commanding officer of the
sloop Argo hath represented unto this Assembly, that the
1779.] AND PROVIDENCE PLANTATIONS. 639
officers and men under his command, have received encour-
agement from the Honorable Major General Gates, that they
should be supplied with the same clothing as is allowed the
officers and men in the brigade under the command of
Brig. Gen. Cornell ; but that he hath not been able to pro-
cure the same ; wherefore, —
It is voted and resolved, that the said Silas Talbot be,
and he is hereby, empowered to draw the sum of £4,000,
lawful money, out of the general treasury, for purchasing
the necessary clothing, for the use of the said officers and
men ; and that he retain in his hands such a part of the
wages and prize money which shall be due to the said offi-
cers and men, as shall be sufficient to satisfy for the said
clothing so furnished, to be paid to this state, in case the
same shall not be approved of by Congress.
It is voted and resolved, that William Channing, Esq.,
as attorney general of this state, be, and he is hereby,
empowered to draw the sum of £800, lawful money,
out of the general treasury, for the payment of the
court and officers' fees, upon the informations preferred
to the superior court, &c, against the estates of absentees,
agreeably to an act of this Assembly ; and that he account
for the same.
It is voted and resolved, that Major Simeon Thayer be,
and he is hereby, empowered to draw the sum of £200,
lawful money, out of the general treasury, for defraying
the expenses of his journey from camp to Providence, and
back again, upon the service of this state ; and that it be,
and hereb}' is, recommended to Ephraim Bowen, Jr., Esq.,
deputy quartermaster general, to furnish the said Simeon
Thayer with a horse, for the use of a soldier to attend him
to headquarters, in the state of New Jersey.
It is further voted and resolved, that the secretary be,
and he is hereby, appointed to draught recruiting instruc-
tions, to be made out in the name of, and approved by,
His Excellency the Governor, or His Honor the Deputy
640 RECORDS OF THE STATE OF RHODE ISLAND [DEC,
Governor ; and that the same be printed and delivered to
the said Simeon Thayer, as soon as may be.
Voted and resolved, that the following accounts be paid
out of the general treasury, viz. :
£ s.cl.
Arthur Fenner, Jr., for his services as clerk of the superior court 76 10 0
Daniel Box, for his pay and subsistence as major of brigade 449 12 0
Preserved Pearce, for attendance as a member of the council of war 24 00 0
Thomas Sheffield, as one of the committee to value boats . . 28 16 0
Pardon Gray, " " " " " . . 1 10 0
" " for storing a large quantity of flax seed belonging to the state, 218 12 0
" " " one hundred and thirty casks of flax seed 1,075 16 0
Rowse J. Helme, for expenses in apprehending divers persons, and carry-
ing them to East Greenwich 31 08 0
"William Ellery, delegate to Congress, on account 300 00 o
Amos Lawrence, for his attendance on the General Assembly, as waiter,. . 25 04 0
William Channing, for his services and expenses as clerk of the General
Assembly at the last session 54 14 0
William Compton, for attendance on the General Assembly, as waiter. ... 42 00 0
David Branch, " " " " " "... , 84 00 0
Simeon Thayer, for defraying the expense of his journey from Providence
and back again, upon the service of the state 200 00 0
God save the United States of America.
Public Acts Passed at the December Session of the General
Assembly.
An Act to prevent desertion.
An Act establishing and regulating fees.
An Act for assessing and apportioning a rate or tax of £120,000, lawful money, upon
the inhabitants of this state.
General Washington to the Governor of Rhode Island.
Headquarters, 2d January, 1778.
Sir : — Enclosed you will receive a copy of a letter from General Varnum to me, upon
the means which might be adopted for completing the Rhode Island troops to their full
proportion in the Continental army. I have nothing to say in addition to what I wrote
the 29th of the last month on this important subject,* but to desire that you will give
the officers employed in this business all the assistance in your power.
I am, with great respect, sir,
Your most obedient servant,
G. WASHINGTON.
To Governor Cooke.
* The letter above referred to, is not found in the archives of the state.
1779.] AND PROVIDENCE PLANTATIONS. 641
General Varnum to General Washington, relative to the Enlistment
of Negroes in the Continental Army.
Camp, January 2d, 1778.
Sir : — The two battalions from the state of Rhode Island being small, and there be-
ing a necessity of the state's furnishing an additional number to make up their propor-
tion in the Continental army ; the field officers have represented to me the propriety
of making one temporary battalion from the two, so that one entire corps of officers
may repair to Rhode Island, in order to receive and prepare the recruits for the field.
It is imagined that a battalion of negroes can be easily raised there. Should that mea
sure be adopted, or recruits obtained upon any other principle, the service will be ad"
vanced. The field officers who go upon this command, are Colonel Greene, Lieutenant
Colonel Olney, and Major Ward; seven captains, twelve lieutenants, six ensigns, one
paymaster, one surgeon and mates, one adjutant and on^ chaplain.
I am Your Excellency's most obedient servant,
J. M. VARNUM.
To His Excellency General Washington.
Whereas, the records of the town of Newport and Mid-
dletown, have been taken into possession of the enemy, and
carried from this state ; and whereas, their being detained
can be of no service to the enemy, but highly detrimental
to the public, —
It is therefore ordered, that His Excellency the Governor
be requested to write immediately to General Washington,
requesting him to use his utmost influence with General
Clinton, to return them as soon as may be.
The Governor of Rhode Island to General Washington.
Warwick, state of Rhode Island, &c, )
November 3d, 1779. J
Sir: — I most sincerely congratulate Your Excellency upon the enemy's having
evacuated Rhode Island ; but am sorry to be under the necessity of troubling you with
a resolution of the council of war, of this state, which I take the liberty to enclose; by
which you will please to observe the distressed situation the inhabitants of those towns
must labor under for want of their records. That I doubt not you will take every ne-
cessary measure that may tend to convince General Clinton of his error in continuing
to hold them, as the}' certainly cannot be of any use to the enemy, exclusive of the
pleasure they enjoy in distressing mankind, who are not to be controlled by them.
I am, with every sentiment of respect,
Your Excellency's most obedient and most humble servant,
W. GREENE.
To His Excellency General Washington, headquarters.
VOL. VIII. 81
642 RECORDS OF THE STATE OF RHODE ISLAND [DEC.
The Governor of Rhode Island to Samuel Huntington, President
of Congress.
Warwick, state of Rhode Island, &c, i
November 5th, 1779. J
Sir : — I had the honor of receiving your favors of the 9th and 20th of last month,
containing their enclosed by you mentioned; and shall take the earliest opportunity to
lay them before the General Assembly.
I am, Avith great truth,
Your most obedient and most humble servant,
W. GREENE.
To His Excellency Samuel Huntington, President of Congress.
General Washington to the Governor of Rhode Island.
Headquarters, West Point, )
23d November, 1779. \
Sir : — I had the pleasure of Your Excellency's favor of the 3d, with the enclosure.
It is with the utmost satisfaction that I join my congratulations with yours, on the
evacuation of Rhode Island.
In a letter of this date, to Sir Henry Clinton, I have represented the loss of the
records mentioned In the resolution of the council of war, and requested his interfer-
ence for their restoration. I can promise nothing from any influence of mine in this
quarter, but what arises from the propiety of the request. On receiving his answer, I
shall immediately transmit it to Your Excellency.
I have the honor to be, with the greatest regard,
Your Excellency's most obedient servant,
G. WASHINGTON.
To His Excellency Governor Greene.
The Governor of Rhode Island to General Washington.
Newport, state of Rhode Island, &c, >
December 3d, 1779. j
Sir: — I had the honor of receiving your favor of the 23d of last month, and am much
obliged to you for the trouble you have taken to endeavor to procure the records be-
longing to the distressed inhabitants of the towns of Newport and Middletown, to be
returned to this state.
Since General Gates left this place, there is no person empowered to sign warrants
upon the Continental paymaster for discharging of abstracts which have become due
to the several regiments doing duty in this department, under the command of Gen.
Cornell ; and there being the greatest necessity of the troops being punctually paid
agreeably to contract, the council of war of this state have requested me to desire the
favor of you to appoint some proper person to draw warrants on the above paymaster
for the purpose aforesaid.
I am, with very great esteem and respect,
Your Excellency's most obedient and most humble servant,
W. GREENE. .
To His Excellency General Washington.
1779.] AND PROVIDENCE PLANTATIONS. 643
General Washington to the Governor of Rhode Island.
Headquarters, Morristown, \
25th December, 1779. (
Sir : — The enemy having asked permission for an unarmed vessel to proceed to
Newport with clothing and necessaries for the prisoners at Rutland, I have granted a
passport for the same, to proceed from the port of New York. I thought it necessary
to give Your Excellency this notice ; and that the quartermaster may have time to
make preparation for their transport to Rutland. Two sergeants have also permission
to pass from Taunton river to Rutland, to superintend the delivery of the articles, and
to return again.
On the 19th I was honored with Your Excellency's letter of the 3d. It is certainly
right and necessary that troops should be paid with punctuality, or as much as circum-
stances will admit. I do not however conceive myself authorized to make the appoint
ment Your Excellency requests, and shall take occasion to submit the matter to Con-
gress ; who, it is probable will make some arrangement in consequence, not only to
comprehend the present, but other cases.
I have the honor to be, with the greatest regard,
Your Excellency's most obedient servant,
G. WASHINGTON.
To His Excellency William Greene, Esq.
INDEX
Able-bodied men capable of bearing
arms, act for numbering 188
Aborn, Samuel 60, 118
Adams, Ebenezer, Capt, 64, 80, 232, 248,
285, 598
John 147
Samuel .. 147
letter from, to marine committee . . .493
Alarm men, orders relative to 67, 75
Albro, Clarke 372, 504
John, Jr 372
James. 74, 391, 545
Jeremiah 192
Aldrich, Caleb 330, 387
David 392
Thomas 244
William, has permission to accom-
pany Jemima Wilkinson to Eng-
land 468
Alexander, Henry 65, 79
Allen, Allin, Alice 284
Christopher 577
Gabriel 79, 404, 408, 512
Joseph 391, 533, 589
Matthew 175, 595, 617
Nathan 601
Pardon 53
Paul 158, 210, 316, 386, 404
Samuel 410, 530
Thomas 65, 137, 272, 348, 512
Viall 46, 85, 394, 596
William 11, 36, 78, 126
Almy, Job, 2d 6
Benjamin 474
Alverson, Uriah 201
Andrews, Abraham 78, 278, 355
David 392, 566
Samuel 350
Angell, Daniel 394, 536, 565
Hope 414
Eber 534
Israel, Col., 11, 36, 126, 280, 546, 600,
618, 636
Jabel 392, 594
James 74, 151
John 221, 299, 390, 532
Rufus 249
Angell, Samuel 80, 392
Thomas 219
Armstrong, Elijah 264, 355
Arnold, Benjamin, Jr 218, 254, 308
Caleb 387
Elizabeth 101
Isaac 394, 535
Jabez 127
James. .3, 5, 110, 201, 229, 386, 410, 529
James, Jr. . . .94, 107, 139, 218, 220, 390
James, 3d 391, 533
Joseph 10, 36, 536
Jonathan, 11, 18, 58, 84, 208, 218, 386,
529
Josiah 191,218
Noah, Jr 152
Peleg 299, 387, 598
Welcome 230, 529, 385
William 395, 597
Atwell, Amos 6, 221, 532
Auchmuty, Robert 600, 619
Austin, David 372, 427
Ezekiel 372
James 400
Joseph 191
Aylesworth, Judiah 387
Judiah, Jr 393, 535
Richard 18
Ayrault, Stephen 325
Babbitt, Elijah 80
Babcock, Abijah 435, 518
Adam 225
Christopher 393
Christopher, Jr 566
George 194
George Waite 196
Henry 53
Ichabod 462, 487
Ichabod, Jr. 256
Joshua, 6, 56, 79, 194, 263, 316, 351,
377, 387, 410
Joshua, 2d 349
James, 2d, Col 201, 218
Nathan 487
Nathan, 3d 489
Nahum 489
646
INDEX.
Babcock, Paul 489
Stephen 128, 392, 545
Samuel 316, 377, 497, 529, 563
William 489
Bacon, David 78, 107
Elijah 272
Badger, William 268, 355
Baggs, John, Jr 407
Bagley, William 476
Timothhy 488
Bailey, George 392
Samuel 564
Richard 219,254, 279
Hit-hard, Jr., Capt.. . .299, 385, 394, 566
Balfour, Andrew 233
Ballard, Jeremiah, 3d 151
Ichabod 151
Luke 151
Ballou. Absalom 394, 564
Benjamin 575
Joseph 374
Reuben 65, 348, 564
Simeon - 392
Stephen 534
William 535
Bannister, John 23
Thomas 628
Barrows, Solomon 415
Barber, Daniel 73
Nathaniel 309
Nathan 529
Bardin, Nathan 581
Barry, Capt., letters to S. Hopkins
relative to Gen. Prescott 282
Bartlett, Josiah 34, 147
John, Dr 256
Barker, John 5, 268
Susannah 513
Barnes, Henry ... 15
Barton, Rufus 128, 355
Seth 355
William 64, 498, 562, 587
lieutenant colonel 263
reward voted to, for capturing Gen.
Prescott 290
recommended for promotion 290
appointed colonel 328, 848, 356
certificate to, from the Governor . . . 358
Bates, John 96
George 566
Jonathan 545
Jonathan, Jr 393, 564
John 432
Samuel , 432
Beal, Richard 12
Belcher, Joseph, Col 3,97,218
William 10, 36
Belknap, Abraham 4
Jacob 65, 264
Benchley, Arnold 567
Joseph 567
Bennett, Asa 393, 535
Abel 589
Asaph 74
Joseph 273
Robert 534
William 285, 325
Bentlev. Arnold 264
Bentley, Christopher 18
David 79
William 398
Berry, Peleg 65, 606
Bethune, George 505
Beverly, John 299
Bickford, Benjamin 80
Bellington, Daniel 385
Bills of credit, see paper money.
Bissell, Hezekiah 262
Samuel 10, 86, 128
Thomas 108
Black; James 7
Samuel 46, 564
Blackrnar, Nathaniel 299
Blanchard, Elias 126
Moses 595
Blankets and clothing for soldiers ; re-
solve of Congress relative to 28
committee to procure 209, 246
apportion of, to towns 253
may be impressed 255
Bliven, Isaac R 190
James 856
William 892, 534, 586
Block Island, certain articles may be
brought from 6
illicit commerce, at 505
Boone, Samuel 366, 382
Mary.. 588
William 366
Borden, Benjamin 489, 565
Samuel 438
William 218,386
Borland, John 66, 204, 626
Boss, James 23
Boston Neck, hay and grain to be re-
moved from 58
Bosworth, Benjamin 6
Edward 530
Bounty to be allowed to soldiers, 103,
121, 198, 200, 247, 270, 277, 298,
306, 350, 483, 630.
officers to pay bounties 201
letter from Gen. Greene relative to. .211
to seamen 247
offer of £100 to each soldier 570
Bourne, Shearjashub, 5, 110, 127, 219, 388,
531
Bowen, Ephraim 11, 36
Ephraim, Jr 635
Henry 188
Isaac 589
Jabez....5, 6, 76, 127, 219, 221, 374,
422, 529, 583
Deputy Governor 386
John .' 269
Nathan 24
Smith 73, 414
William 11,272,395
Bowler, Metcalf, speaker 4
judge 5, 16, 323,507
Bowyer, Stephen 177, 459
Box," Daniel 640
Boyd, Andrew 8
Bradford, Daniel 188
Bradford, William, Deputy Governor,
3, 11. 157. 218, 278, 342, 387. 616
INDEX.
647
William Bradford, elected delegate to
Congress . 19
letter to General Washington rela-
tive to exchange of prisoners 27
thanks of the Assembly voted to . . . 399
statement of the account of 539
William, Jr 11,36
Branch, Daniel 250
David 640
Brayton, David 299
John 535
Joseph 536
Briekwood, Edward 17
Briges, Abiezer 597
Cornelius 565
David 559
Nathaniel 514
George 79
Randall 300
Brightman, Mary 574
Brimmer, Martin 497, 505
Brinley, Francis 268
Bristol, warrant to be issued against . .575
wood to be cut for the poor of 627
Bristol Ferry, fortication to be erected at,49
British troops occupy Rhode Island 56
Brown, Beriah . . .6, 23, 138, 220, 309, 389
Beriah, Jr 192, 400
Chad, Col 6, 201, 221, 390, 532
Clarke 11, 36, 290
David 412
Experience 493
Fleet 363
Godfrey 322
Ichabod, Jr 595
Israel 492
James 5, 191
John, 3, 10, 16, 21, 51, 59, 95, 130, 147,
148, 157, 195, 200, 203, 208, 218,
272, 377, 392, 491, 492, 508, 529, 547,
572.
vessel for fire-ship purchased of 103
John, of Hopkinton 564
Joseph 23,50, 80
to prepare two fire-ships 81
Levi 3<j5
Nathaniel 6, 221
Nicholas '.196
Robert 6, 529, 585
Samuel 474, 534, 566
Thomas 435
William ]21
Zephaniah Vl, 36, 391, 533
Brown University used for barracks, 344,
349
Browned, Thomas 530
Browning, Wilkinson 328
Bucklin, Daniel 387
Joseph, Jr 137
John) 393,535
Bull. Nathan 232, 239
Burdick, Jesse 19, 394
Joseph 488
Oliver 489
Thompson 489
Walter 463
Weight 19
Burgoyne. General 326
Burgoyne, General, letter from Gov.
ernor Cooke relative to the em-
barkation of 387
letter from Council of Massachu-
setts relative to 338
Burke, Thomas 214
Burkett, Ezekiel 80
Burlingame, Benjamin 393
Chandler 568
Nehemiah 394, 535, 565
Peter, 3d 387,410
Philip 564
Susanna 519
Pardon 602
William 393,519,535
Burr, Joshua 138
Ezekiel 442
Shubael 410
Burton, John 564
William 564
Bush, Richard 508
Butts, Enoch 101
Cahoone, Daniel, 52, 59, 84, 208, 218, 229,
316
Cane, Jeremiah 598
Card, Bowen 566
Carder, James 391, 533
Carlile, Thomas 80, 260, 248, 511
Carpenter, Joseph • • • 128, 392
John 191, 534, 560
Jotham 4°?
James °21
Nathaniel 45,535
Nathan 264,511,564
Thomas 50°
Carr, Benjamin 191
Caleb 65,348,512
Edward I90,
Edward, Jr 392,534
John... 11,155,263,248,512
Robert i-^]
Samuel 4, 156, 219, 387, 427, 534
report of the committee on the farm
hired by 50J>
Carroll, Charles, of Carrollton 14 <
Carter, John 23, 78, 137, 211
Carver, Robert 349, Ell, 5 7
Case, Immanuel, 4, 42, 131, 201, 209, 218
220, 386, 422, 563
John 600
William ?93
Casey, Silas ....159
Census of the men capable of bearing
arms ordered *«»
Center, Senter, Isaac, Dr 84, 530
Chace, Daniel 433
James 363,434
James, Jr 36^
John 215
Joseph 278,355
Samuel 14,225
William 492
Champlin, Christopher 263
George 474
Hazard 572
Jabez. 6, 221, 389. 532, 552
Jesse 6
648
INDEX.
Champlin, Robert 461, 501, 552
Samuel 125, 236, 486
Stephen 194, 291, 328
William 285
Channing, Walter 78, 512
William, 109, 138, 191, 211, 219, 369,
387, 474
Chapman. John. 11, 36, 201, 219, 254, 410,
480, 530
Chappell, Richard 256
Cheeseborough, Amos 623
Jabez 489
Child, Cromel, 4, 23, 53, 56, 110, 138, 157,
190, 191, 219, 387
John 5, 187, 220, 531
Sylvester 4, 52, 58, 157, 203, 219
Church, Benjamin 65, 99
Charles ...423
Nathaniel 4, 158, 299, 391, 564
Peter 221, 390,532
Thomas . . . .3, 5, 50, 57, 111, 158, 323
Clapp, Job 46, 128
Clarke, Abraham 214
Benjamin 552
Christopher 46
John ,. ..93,566
John Innis 235, 620
Joseph 5, 11, 191, 219, 328
Jonathan 65
Jonas 552
Josiah 328
Oliver 126
Peleg 474
Paul 529
Phineas 542
Simeon 93, 189, 530
Simeon, Jr 189
Thomas 73; 222, 544
Walter 376, 564
William 432
Cleveland, John 355
Clinton, General 108, 642
Clothing, ordered to be purchased .... 354
order relative to 436
Coddington, John 220
Mary 239
William 407
Coe, Benjamin 565
Coggeshall, Joseph 53, 188
Matthew 127
Cole, Curtis 73
Ebenezer 256
John 18, 79,477, 601
John, Jr 45
Thomas 36
Coleman, Edward 79
College in Providence used for bar-
racks to be repaired 344, 349
Collier, Sir George 334
Collins, John ... .3, 21, 23, 139, 218, 377,
530
delegate to Congress 388, 635
William 432
Colvin, Benedict .. . . 393,535
George 535, 602
John 393, 535
Colwell, John 7, 222, 439
James 393
Coman, Joseph 565
Commissioners to meet other states in
convention 340
Compton, William 583, 640
Comstock, Benjamin 391
Andrew 149
Adam, Lieut 10, 36
letter to Governor Cooke relative to
clothing for the troops 25
Job, 4, 21, 195, 219, 229, 316, 369, 387,
473
Gideon 316, 386, 598
Joseph 480
William 80
Conants, Samuel 105
Confederation and union proposed,
articles of, referred to the next
Assembly 341
instructions to delegates in Con-
gress, relative to 364
action of the Assembly upon 365
Confiscation bill, committee appoint-
ed to draft 341
Confiscating estates, act for 609
resolution relative to 631
Congdon, James 138, 265
James, 3d, 15, 93, 97, 110, 131, 133, 139,
147, 191, 209, 227, 317
John, Jr 393, 432, 545, 566
Joseph, Capt 299, 552
Robert 219, 254, 501
Samuel 552
Stephen 372,552
Thomas 394, 416, 535, 602
Continental Congress, letter to Gov-
ernor Cooke relative to enlist-
ments 34
Congress, address of, to be printed,
distributed and read in the sev-
eral churches 571
order from, to receive £300,00 627
Cooke, Abraham, Jr 99
Ariah 565
Isaac 393, 565
John, Col., 6, 13, 43, 64. 138, 201, 221,
299, 390, 532
John, Ensign 536
Nicholas, Governor, 3, 110, 137, 192,
218, 229
letters to General Nathaniel Greene, 30,
139, 216
letters to Gen. Washington —
" Oct. 5, 1776. ..30
" " " Nov. 6, " . . .54
" Dec. 8, " ..112
announcing the oocupation of R.
Island Ill
" Feb. 9, 1777 ..140
" '• 18, " ...142
"Mar. 18, " ...192
" Apr. 14, " ...215
letters to Gov. Trumbull, of Conn., 55,
257, 258
letter to Commodore Hopkins 69
letter to members of the General
Assembly, requiring their attend-
ance 71
letter to John Jlancock 172
INDEX.
649
Cooke, Nicholas, Governor, letter to
the states of Massachusetts, Con-
necticut and New Hampshire,
relative to raising troops 71
letter to the speaker of the General
Assembly of Massachusetts 217
letter to the committee of safety of
New Hampshire 257
allowance to, for extra services. . .271
letter to delegates in Congress, ask-
ing for a supply of money 273
letter to Gen. K. Pigot 284
letter to the Council of Massachu-
setts, relative to Gen. Burgoyne. .337
letter to the Council of Massachu-
setts, relative to troops 238
thanks of the Assembly voted to . . .399
Samuel 393
Thomas, Jr. 322
Walter 188, 220, 385, 531
William 219, 387, 545, 575
Coon, Elias 564
William, Jr 45
Corey, Francis 437, 449
Olion 355,511
Philip 393,565
Thomas 498
Cornell, Benjamin 46
Ezekiel, Brig. General 348, 362, 379,
496, 511
Gideon 13, 191, 249
Joseph 264
Cornwell, Col 33
Cotterell, David 351
James 79
Libbeus 356, 394, 535
Council of the Governor, authority to. .22
Council of war appointed 56, 316
wages allowed to 208
members of, in 1777—229, 316, 340, 422,
473, 545, 616
authorized to hold courts martial . .262
act for the better regulating of 419
Counterfeiting, act for the punish-
ment of 19
Cozzens, Benjamin 474
Peter 474
William 190
Crab, Thomas 268
Crandall, Amos 11, 36
Azariah 73, 210, 535
Caleb 239
Edward 65
Joseph 80, 188, 230
Uriah 394
Cranston, Thomas 344, 397, 557
Thomas, Jr 398
Crary, Archibald, Col., 127, 263, 325, 348,
511, 583
resigns his commission 546
Cross, John 501
Joseph 385
Peleg 566
Croswell, John 625
Gushing, Matthew 66
Cutter, Thomas 363, 366, 382
Daggett, Timothy 125
tol. Tin, 82
Davenport, William 84
David, Ebenczer . 230
Davis, Benjamin 400
John 210, 394, 565
Jonathan 126
Joseph 188
Joshua 529
Mumford 566
Oliver 586
William 545, 585
William, Jr 126
Day, Samuel 392
Stephen 534
Dayton, Henry 299
Hezekiah 391, 474, 533, 539
Delegates to Congress ; H. Marchant
chosen 127
H. Marchant, W. Ellery and Ste-
phen Hopkins elected 220
form of oath to be given to 223
form of commission to 396, 537
Hopkins, Ellery, Marchant and Col-
lins 530
Desertion, act to prevent 640
Deserters, resolves relative to, 8, 9, 143,
300
Deval, Jonathan, Jr 79
Daniel 286, 565
Dexter, Daniel 512, 536
David 126, 272
David, Jr 469
John 15, 53, 56, 188, 201, 356, 631
John Singer 10, 36, 520
Daniel Singer 355
Knight, Col 188
Simeon 264, 355, 512
Diamond, Benjamin 154
Jonathan 393, 595
Dickens, Thomas 515
Distilling, act to prevent, from corn,
rye, barley, etc 351
Dolliver, Joseph, Jr 535
Donnison, William 80
Dorrance. George 392, 534
Douglas, David .572
Downer, Silas . 191
Drake, Joseph 278
Drafted men neglecting duty, course
to be pursued with 324
Joseph 393, 535
Draughting soldiers, orders relative
to, 81, 102, 180, 197, 277, 305, 317,
318, 328
bounties and allowances to 104
Drew, Margaret 232
Dudley. Charles 10
Dunn, Samuel, Jr 264
Durfee. Durfey, Abner 586, 595
Benjamin,- Jr. ... 439
Richard 439, 474, 565
William 158, 175, 383, 446
Thomas 474
Dyer, Charles, 7, 79, 179, 221, 329, 390,
532, 544
Charles, son of Edward 564
Christopher 126, 348, 512
Edward 391
George 201
650
INDEX.
Dver, Mary 28
Samuek* 391, 545
William 256, 356
William, Jr 137
Earl, Thomas 46
Easterbrooks, Thomas 415
Easton, Dorcas 311
Nicholas 4,440
Eddy, Esek 564
John 269
Oliver 210
Richard 189, 300
Elam, Gervas 323, 638
Eldred, James 391, 545
John 577
Samuel 227, 395
Elderkin. Bela 158
Ellery, Christopher, 218, 220, 229, 386,
388, 397, 474
William 34, 388
delegate to Congress 530
letters to Governor Cooke, 161, 167,
170, 171, 219
delegate to convention, in Philadel-
phia 634
Elliott, Robert, elected colonel, 64, 99, 348,
511
officers of his regiment of artillery. .354
Ellis, John '. . .407
Ely, Colonel 314
Embargo recommended to the New
England states 53
acts for laying, according to act of
Congress 4, 30, 618
Emmerson, William 394
Enos, Matthias 598
Enlistments for soldiers, form of, 21, 43, 63
letter from Congress relative to 34
Esten, Esek 388, 404
The title of " His Excellency " first
applied to the Governor 302
Eyres, Thomas 463
Fairbanks, Jonathan 47
Fales, Nathaniel . . .5, 219, 220, 387, 531
Fast, public, ordered 14
Fees, act regulating 640
Fenner, Arthur, Jr 7, 557
Edward 374
James 73
John 110
Richard, Jr 391, 533, 536
Fenner £ White 159
Ferguson, Adam 363
Ferriage, rate of, from Newport to
South Kingstown 603
Field, John 564
Lemuel 602
Mehitable 158
Thomas 392, 534
William 4, 535
Finch, John 127
Fir2-ship9 to be procured 80
Fiske, Caleb, Dr 190
Daniel 78
John 6, 530
Squire 45,65. 565
Fiske, William 80
Flagg, Ebenezer 10, 36, 536
Josiah 248,353, 511
Flour, apportionment of, to towns . . . .253
seizure of 142
Fort Liberty 9
Foster, John 6, 220, 225, 373, 531
Jonathan 489
Theodore. .3, 59, 109, 143, 220, 386, 529
Fowler, Samuel 12
Mary 311
Forage, act to supply the army with. .493
remonstrance of General Sullivan
against 522, 524
Franklin, Benjamin 147
presented the state with a copy of
Berenger's History of Geneva 596
Mary 190
Stephen 501,620
Stephen, Jr ... 193, 541
Freebody, Samuel 623
John 623
Judith 623
Thomas 3, 24, 108
Freeborn, Gideon 442
Friends, members of the Society of,
exempt from military duty 129
ordered to be drafted 204
Frink, Amos 356
Fry, Benjamin 369
Richard, Col 183, 389, 395, 577
Fuller, Joseph 107, 391, 533, 565
Furneaux, Tobas, Capt 16
Gardner, Benjamin 125,564
Caleb 218,616
Caleb, Jr 256
Ezekiel, Jr 567
Francis Willett 79
George, Jr 440
Henry 498
John 552
John, Jr 600
Oliver 134
Nathan, Jr 567
Peleg 328,572
Paris 192, 566
Sylvester. .3, 91, 201, 218, 299, 387, 410
Susannah .239, 288
Samuel 239, 404, 434, 518
Silas 577
William 126, 129, 239, 263
Garzia, John 80, 248, 511, 619
Gates, Asa 566
Horatio, Gen., letter to Governor
Cooke 385, 443, 589
Gavitt, Gavit, Ann 623
John 391, 534
General Assembly, act for the pay-
ment of, repealed 203
General election to be held in Provi-
dence during the occupation of
Rhode Island by' the British 188
General officers, extra allowances to. . 560
General treasurer, authorized to hire
money 66, 75, 123
allowed £500 for extra services 405
Gjbbs, George 268
651
Gibbs, Josiah 74, 144
Gifford, David, Capt 72, 218, 280
Gladding, Benjamin 565
Nathaniel 79, 354, 511
Glazier, John (J4
Gleason, Ezra 329
Gofl", Joseph 289
Goldthwaite, Samuel 625
Gorton, Benjamin 65, 393, 535
Edward 350
Othniel 350, 529, 597
threats against ... 605
Samuel, Capt 299
Thomas, Capt. . .299, 387, 390, 530, 533
William 379, 494, 501, 513, 616
Gould, Nathaniel 99
Governor's Council authorized to act . .22
Grain, an act to prohibit the distillery
of, recommended to other states. .296
ordered to be purchased 502
Grant, Gilbert 11
Gratuities to officers, committee to
report on 632
Gray, Pardon, 6, 138, 218, 222, 225, 244,
341, 385, 390, 492, 616, 640
Sarah ..* 256
Grey, Thomas 6, 540
Greene, Abraham 350, 369, 42
Amos 393
Benjamin 301
Charles 395
Caleb 393, 535
Christopher. . . .8, 36, 363, 515, 583, 635
colonel of Continental battalion 239
Daniel 79
Elisha 219, 254
Elihu 377
Griffin 286, 395
Jacob , 4,92, 131,210
Job 46, 79, 589
John, 4,219,254, 387
Nathaniel, Gen., letter to Governor
Cooke, relative to operations on
Long Island 26
letter from Fort Constitution 32
" " New York Island 37
" " Coryell's Ferry, Dec.
21, 1776 113
" " Morristown, January 23,
1777 115
" Baskeridge, Mar. 6, 1778,211
Philip 5,220, 531
Richard 107
Sarah 288, 311
Samuel, Jr 393,535
Thomas, 5, 15, 138, 159, 191, 220, 389,
490
Thomas, Jr 566
William 4, 56, 219, 229, 316, 369
judge 5,127
Governor 386, 529
letters to Governor Trumbull. .424, 425
letter to Gen. Sullivan 478
" " General Assembly of Con-
necticut ". . .479, 499
" " the delegates in Congress, 498
" " Gov. Geo. Clinton, N. Y., 499
" " Gen. Washington 641 . 642
Greene, William, Governor, letter to
Samuel Huntington 642
Grinnell, Zebedee 471, 625
Grozart, M 311
Grimes, Capt 10, 834
Gully, William 392, 469
Gunpowder, act for the inspection of. . .18
Haley, Samuel 266
Hall, Daniel 254, 385
Edward 599
Joseph 489
Lyman 34
Levi 227, 560
William 269,392
Halleen, James, Joseph 72
Halstead, Mr 268
Hamlin, Samuel 533
Hamlinton, Nathaniel 104
Hammett, Malachi 45, 65, 356
Hammond, Pain 577
Hamlin, Samuel 391
Hancock, John, President of Con-
gress, letters to the General As-
sembly of Rhode Island, 27, 29, 31,
146, 172, 216
letter to do., enclosing act of inde-
pendence 117
Handy, Charles 512
John 10, 79, 268, 349, 512
John, Jr 349
Harding, Stephen 109, 240
Walter 391, 533
Hargill, Christopher 12
Harris, Andrew 414
Caleb, 4, 13, 143, 158, 191, 201, 209, 374,
387, 408, 477
Ebenezer 262
Gideon 269, 416, 534
John 127, 535
Hart, Naphthali 586
Haszard, Enoch, 194, 218, 254, 387, 410,
494, 563, 578, 593
Jeremiah, son of Robert 593, 601
Jeremiah, son of Jeffrev 601
Jonathan 15, 2(5, 24, 60, 473, 597
Jonathan J.. .24, 131, 153, 175, 207, 387
Jonathan T., member of council of
war 616
Stephen 593, 601
Stephen, Jr 593, 601
Samuel 593,601
Thomas 514
Thomas, son of Jeremiah 601
Hatch, Estes 600, 619
Hawkins, Elijah 230
Job 372
John 190, 616
Joseph, Jr 269
Nathaniel 74, 263, 328, 348, 511
Hayes, Jonathan 268
Hazard, Carder 5, 125, 220, 563
Eunice 581
George 5
Samuel 583
Stephen 328, 584
Thomas 325
Haven. William 80
652
INDEX.
Heath, Polo?. .219, 222, 254, 300, 391, 533
Helme, Nathaniel 385, 572, 017
Kowse J 7, 110, 138, 158, 387, 640
Robert 154
Samuel 372
William 356, 512
thanks of the Assembly voted to . . .476
sword voted to 491
Herreiulen, John 158
Simeon 392, 534
Thomas, Jr 151
Herring, Newman 263
Herrington, John 46
David 564
Ebenezer 406
Reuben 291
Hewitt, Charles 356, 512
Hieks, Samuel 207
Hull, Caleb 564, 575
Stukeley 545
Hilyard, David 6, 222
Isaac 272
Hitchcock, Daniel 11, 36
Holden. Anthony 366
Anthony, Jr 391, 534
Charles 20, 201
Charles, Jr 3, 24, 211
John 536
John, Jr 126
Thomas, 3, 8, 58, 94, 387, 390, 529, 532,
564
bounty abstract of . . 548, 549
Holloway, Abigail 311
Polly 311
Hopkins, Esek, Commodore, 38, 219, 283,
310, 374, 387, 422, 530, 597
letters to Governor Cooke 69, 70
ordered to put to sea 69
letter of Governor Cooke to 69
row irallev placed under orders of. . .100
Esek, Jr." 335
Joseph 46, 79, 299, 393
Isaac . . '. 392, 566
John , 230
Jonathan, Jr. . . 249
Rufus 5, 531, 556
Samuel, Jr 4, 188, 209, 535
Stephen, delegate to Congress 530
Assembly votes thanks to, as a dele-
gate to Congress 13
member of the council of Avar, 56, 77,
220, 229, 278, 301, 514
letters to Capt. Barry, relative to
Gen. Prcscott 282, 283
pay for services 407
Timothy . . .219, 254, 299, 377, 387, 410
Zebedee 256
Hopkinson, Erancis 147
Hoppin, Benjamin 263, 348, 512
Horse racing, act to prevent 351
Hospital to be established for the soldiers,
83
Hospital surgeon, regulation for 130
Howard, William 293, 534
Howe, Lord, flag of truce from, for
exchange of prisoners 41
Squire 268,355, 511
Howell. David. . . .131, 210, 258, 529, 564
Howland, Benjamin 565
John 481
John, Jr 151,414
Jemima 288
Isaac 239
Hoxsie, Gideon 4,219,266,316
Gideon, Jr 127, 393
Joseph . .5, 125, 201, 220, 266. 389, 513
Peleg 126, 263, 349, 500
Hoyle^Philip 299
Hubbard, John 597
Thomas 109
Hughes, Thomas ... .11, 36, 126, 301, 310
Hull, Elias 126
Edward 567
William 175, 207
Humphrevs, Josiah, 5, 220, 377, 387, 414,
531
Nathaniel . . 355, 512
William 36, 126
Hunniwell, Richard 11, 36
Hunt, Joseph, Jr 409, 437
Seth 152
Huntington, Samuel 147
Hutchinson, Mr 215
Independence, Declaration of 144
Ingraham, Joshua 19, 24
Inman, Jeremiah 535, 565
Inoculating for small pox, orders rela-
tive to 407, 421
Irish, George 4, 6, 136, 262, 267, 332
Iron, price fixed for 133
Irons, Stephen 393
Jackson, Elias 356, 512
James, Allen 154, 561
Joseph 393, 427, 535
Jamestown, stock to be removed from, 48
Jenckes, Eleazer 394, 536
Esek 565
John 59, 131, 210, 477, 616
Jonathan, Jr 264
Ichabod 564
Joseph .. 597
Oliver 11, 36, 126
Stephen 148, 190, 272, 583
Jepson, John 3,5
Jerauld James 188, 533
Jerrold, Duty 11, 36, 126
Jillson, Amos 80, 268
Johnson, Allen 392, 566, 583
Johnston. Isaac 79, 391, 533
Reuben 511
William 210
James, Amos 46, 441
Joslvn, Joseph 84, 406
Thomas 530
Kasson, Archibald. . .7, 244, 390, 532, 549
Keene, Charles 391, 533
Kelly, John 191
Kenna, Asa 79
Kentish Guards 102, 395
Kilburn, John 155
Kimball, Asa. . .45, 188, 254, 299, 391, 533
Joseph 13
Stephen 299
INDEX.
c,:,o
King, John, Jr 4
Kings county court house to be sold . .295
Kingstown Reds 102, 148, 227
officers of 395, 561
Kinnicutt, Daniel 84, 394, 53(1
Kinyon, John 4
Joseph 393
Moses 552
Nathan 493
Phineas 73
Knight, Jesse 190
Joseph 7, 222, 439
Jonathan , 392, 534
Jonathan, Jr 299
Nehemiah 189, 201
Knowles, Jeremiah 473, 445
Samuel .. 468,542
William 329
Lamphere, Champlin 355
Langt'ord, Holanby 23
Lapham, John 387, 410
Larcher Timothy 84
Lewis 84
Larkin, John 4, 143, 210
Timothy 210
Larned, Benjamin Ill, 138
Lassell, John Ill
Lawless, William 45, 65, 355, 512
Law ton, Jonathan 174
Joshua 412
Lawrence, Amos 640
Joseph 80, 139, 268, 576
Laurens, Henry, president of Con-
gress, letters to Governor Cooke, 320,
336, 370, 371
letter to the speaker of the house of
representatives of Rhode Island . . 369
Leach, Stephen 137
Lee, Charles, General, letters to Gov.
Cooke 55, 159
letter to do., recommending Gen.
Malmedy, etc Ill
letters to, from General Malmedy, 160-
162, 163
Richard Henry 214
Leland, Jesse 119
Lewis, Beriah 65, 393, 566
Elijah 126, 457
Francis .. .' 147
Oliver 534
Peter 534
Peleg 129
Lillibridge, Jonathan 432
Lincoln, Major General, to be sup-
plied with stores for his troops 72
Lindsey, Benjamin 139
Lippitt, Christopher, Col., 176, 228, 379,
387, 530, 583
Moses 565
Little Compton, to have two field-
pieces 100
Littlefield, Simon Ray 16
Simon 510
William 11, 36
Little Rest Hill court house, to be sold
at auction . . .251
Little Rest Hill court house, sold to
Silas Niles 309
Loans made by the state, see yeneral
treasurer and paper money.
asked for by Congress, subscrip-
tions proposed for 581
Locke, Timothy 10, 36, 369, 392
Timothy, Jr 566
Lottery authorized to raise money to
build a bridge on Pawtucket river, 631
Love, William 299
Lovell, Nathaniel 602
Lovett, James 387, 422
Low, John 5, 6, 190, 220
Luce, Peter 600
Luther, Martin 376
Lyndon, Josias. .4, 109, 138, 191, 219, 308
Lyon, Susanna 397
Macomber, Ebenezer 65
Jonathan 464
Malmedy, F. L. de, appointed chief
engineer 64, 67, 94, 101
recommended by Gen. Lee Ill
letters to Gen. Lee 160, 162, 163
relieved from his command 186
asks an honorary appointment as
brigadier general 259
Manchester, Christopher, 78, 248, 356,
511
Christopher, Jr 45
Cyrus 80
Isaac 219, 254, 330, 387
Joseph 79
Matthew 287, 597
Phillip 393
Manning, James, Rev. 272, 496
Manton, Daniel 374
Marchant, Isabel 312
Henry 5, 58, 149, 364, 369
delegate to Congress, 127, 219, 367, 383,
530
letters to Gov. Cooke 283
his account as delegate 633
Maritime courts, orders relative to 22
Marine committee of Congress to the
council of war 214
Martin, James 84, 394
Nathaniel 6, 201
Simeon 10, 268
Martindale. Sion 154, 343
Matthews, Caleb 512
Matthewson, Allen 535
Joseph 154, 530
John 390
Noah 219
Daniel 393
Mary 498
Mason, David 272
James, Dr 407
Massachusetts, letters from the coun-
cil of 338, 339
Mauran, Joseph 269
Maxson. Asa 84, 392, 534
George 535
Jesse 6, 84, 244, 390, 530, 532
Jonathan 78, 299, 391, 533, 545
Joseph 566, 607
654
Maxson, Mathew, Jr 264
Phineas 19
Silvanus 394
Maxwell, Levi 256
Mayes, Samuel 393
Mclvenzie, Catharine 311
McLean, William 482
Medbury, Benjamin 109
Mease, James 340
Military officers, Continental battal-
ions, pay of 466, 490
Military abstracts, report of the com-
mittee to examine 378
Military exempts . ... 334
delinquents in the Rhode Island ex-
pedition, act relative to 452
action against 424
Militia, state, officers of the 1st, 2d
and 3d regiments 6
pay granted to 8
pay and rations of 120, 579
organization of 198
act obliging Friends and others of
tender consciences, to do military
duty 205
orders relative to 226
Miller, Barnard 412
to be tried by court martial 429
Job 412
James 356
John 356, 512
Joseph 512
Nathan, 10, 94, 190, 201, 221, 299, 390,
422, 532, 544
Squire 391, 533
William Turner 110, 188, 414
William 232
Minor, Asa 230
Phineas 635
Minerva, a British transport ship,
wrecked on the shores of the
state 482
Moffittt, Thomas, Dr 358
Monopolies and oppression by exces-
sive prices, acts to prevent and
regulate 85, 245
additional acts relative to. .134, 183, 250
additional act, fixing the price of
labor . .183
repeal of act 289
Monroe, Hezekiah 261
Stephen 261
Montayne, Tunis, Capt 92
Montgomery, General 27
Samuel 439, 512
Morris, Robert 147, 214
letters to General Washington, 165, 167
Morse Philip 80, 299, 355
Mosier, Ichabod 468
Moulton, Micah 11,36
Mowrv, David 428
Daniel 50, 188, 272, 519
Daniel, Jr., 4, 5, 23, 220, 389, 531, 557,
583
Daniel, 4th 392, 534
Elisha 222, 244
Elisha, Jr 6
Job 564 1
Mowry, Philip 428
Mumford, Benjamin 110
Gideon 5, 109, 138, 158, 220, 389
Nathaniel, 24, 110, 138, 158, 191, 331,
474
Paul, 194, 219, 220, 278, 301, 388, 529,
616
Samuel 477
Stephen 96, 134, 209
Munro, James, Capt 448
Nathaniel 324
Stephen 439
Narragansett Indians, petition from,
relative to their lands 573
act relating to 574
Negroes, act tor the enlistment of 359
(for other particulars relative to the
negro regiment, see slaves.)
Nelson, John 265
New England states, resolve of, rela-
tive to the pay of troops 105
transmitted to Congress 108
day of fasting recommended by,
adopted 109
Newport, while in possession of the
British, to choose its general offi-
cers in Providence .... 175
to choose officers after the evacua-
tion of the British 383
wood ordered to be furnished to the
poor of 637
records of, taken by the British,
correspondence relative to . .641, 642
town officers to be chosen for 605
vessels sunk by the British in the
harbor of 621
New Shoieham, inhabitants of, may
return 180
efforts to prevent communication
with the army 582
Newtown Rangers 197
Nicoll John 12, 432
Nichols, Jonathan, Jr 589
Nightingale, Joseph, Major General. . . .65
William 268
Niles, Jonathan 12, 23
Joseph, Jr 535
Silas 97, 194, 232
Nomquit Pond 537
North Kingstown, alarm company, of-
ficers of 575
North Providence Rangers, officers of, 249,
567
Northup, Henry 322, 344, 500, 566
John, 3, 5, 13, 91, 107, 147, 218, 220,
272, 308, 351, 387, 563
Samuel 126,355,512
Stephen 567
Noyes, Joseph, Col., 3, 6, 59, 153, 194, 244,
390
Thomas 10, 239
Oath of allegiance, to be drafted bv
act "..353
reported by committee 366
Offenders against the United States,
court for the trial of 237
INDEX.
..11
394,
.46,
Oliver, Andrew
Olney, Charles, Jr
Coggeshall
Emor
Esek
Ezekiel
George
Joseph 4, 189, 201, 209, 219,
Jeremiah ... 11, 36,
Nathan 230, 264, 349, 355,
Samuel
Stephen 11, 86, 126, 269,
Thomas
TilleyM "
Thomas, Jr
Thomas, Capt
Oman, Htnry
Oneida Indians, presents to be given to,
to be conveyed to Gov. Trumbull . .
Ormsbee, Ezra
John
Otis, Jonathan
O vering, Henry
Owen, Daniel
Page, Ambrose 56, 137,
William 80,268,355,
Paine, John
Isaac
Nathan
Nathan, Jr
Philip
Robert Treat 34,
Pallifer, Jacques
Palmer, Philip 355,
Thomas 66,261,
Walter 45
Paper money, report of committee to
sign
convention of New England states
relative to
eonveniion recommended that no
further emission be made of
issues of 124,
form of
convention of the New England
states and New York, relative to,
to be called in and sunk 313,
Park, John 127,
Parker, Clarke
James 65,128,
Jacob
Jacob, Jr
Sir Peter
Samuel
Thomas
Thomas, Jr
Parks, John
Pawcatuck river, act to preserve fisher-
ies of
Pawtuxet Rangers 102,
Pearce, Christopher
Daniel
George
Job
John
Joshua
Pearce, Lawrence 40, 566
Nathaniel 4, 66
Preserved 389, 529, 572, 640
Sylvester 575
Thomas 7g
William 159
Peck, Ambrose 256, 540
George, Col 219, 222, 299, 395, 632
Jonathan 256
Lewis 391, 533
Thomas I91
Peckham, Barber, 46, 78, 128, 356, 5l2,
545, 566
Benjamin L 153
Stephen 638
Peirce, Joshua 564
Charles 536
George, Col. . .4, 110, 158, 188, 387, 407
Job 64, 533
Jonathan 13, 301
Lawrence 392, 545
Stephen 586
Sylvester 73, 564
William 299
Pemberton, Job 299
Pendleton, Amos 489
Ephraim 391
Isaac 488
Joshua : 391, 534
John 489
Joseph 533
Simeon 391
Zebulon 489
Penn, John 34
Perigo, Robert 308
Perkins, Samuel 392, 534
Perry, Benjamin 372, 492
Edward 201, 210, 356, 387, 428
Freeman 328, 598
Sarah 329
Pettis, Mr 474
Phillips, Christopher 128, 263
Nathaniel 230, 264
Peter 408, 434, 529, 583, 598
Samuel 128, 348, 356, 408, 511
Pigot, R., General, letter to Governor
Cooke 284,326
letter to General Burgoyne 337
Pigot galley, captured 491
Piracy, act empowering the superior
court to take cognizance of 618
Pitman, Isaac 268, 354, 511
William 398
Pitt, Pitts, Benjamin 355, 511
Place, Jeremiah 566
Point Judith, grain, hay and stock to
be removed from 58, 73
report of committee to appraise ar-
ticles lost at 488
farm, report of stock on 592
farm, report of committee relative to, 608
Point Judith Pond, fisheries in 621
Pollock, William Wdson 110, 252
Posmasters exempt from military duty, 335
Potter, Asa 152
Anthony 394, 535
Benjamin 473
656
Potter, Christopher 4, 387, 529
David 477, 572
Elisha 463
Holliman 36
Iehabod 9,628
James 329, 355, 512
James, Jr 577
John 565
Josiah 394
Joseph 394, 535, 565
Rowse 445
Robert 73, 394, 445, 477, 535
Samuel 255,299
Samuel, son of Robert 545
Simeon 3, 24, 67, 150, 159
Stephen 387, 388, 477, 531, 589
Stephen, son of John 593
dispute with William Gorton 593
Thomas Hazard 17
Thomas, 84, 180, 188, 299, 544, 572, 593
Thomas Jr 45, 256, 390, 532, 598
William, 3, 10, 24, 97, 126, 139, 191,
211, 218, 220, 374, 385, 489, 392, 393
judge 5
William, Scituate t>34
Powder and lead to be furnished by
towns 99
Powell, Jeremiah, letter to Governor
Cooke relative to the militia 25
letter to Governor Cooke, relative
to convention at Springfield 280
Prentice, Iehabod 10, 36, 126
Prescott, Elizabeth 284
General, letter of General Smith to
Governor Cooke relative to 282
correspondence between S. Hopkins
British officers relative to . . . 282, 283
Price, Edward 80, 355
Prisoners, British, allowed to buy a
vessel and proceed to England. . . .15
retained for exchange 16
Governor Bradford to Gen. Wash-
ington, relative to exchange of, 27, 29
various exchanges of 41, 73, 141
committee to meet Eord Howe rela-
tive to 50, 51
Privateeis, the Governor authorized
to grant commissions to 19, 61
Samuel Sheffield authorized to fit out,234
American Tartar taken 334
General Stark 434
Diamond 445
Blaze Castle 448
Prize vessels not to break bulk until
condemned 618
Proud, John 80
Providence, ship, Capt. Whipple 245
Public buildings of the state, act for
their preservation 618
Punkatest Pond 537
act relative to fish in 617
Quackett Brook 438
Quakut farm 517
Quakers relieved from doing military
duty '..129
act requiring them to be drafted .... 204
Quakers, penalty for a refusal to do
military duty 205
Randall, Eleazer 264, 355, 522
Job 386, 391, 529, 533
Joshua 576, 586
Matthew 79
Peter 135
Rawson, Wilson 10
Razee, Joseph 394
Read, Abigail 407
Fear, Mrs 190
Eli 534
John 432
Reuben 263
Remington, Akraw 434
Benjamin 434
Captain, of Pawtuxet 581
Dinah 301
John 11, 36, 127, 511. 587
Sarah 288
Revnolds, Henry 210
jabez 559, 601
Joseph 5. 220, 595
Joseph, Jr 393
John 196, 221, 254, 293, 322, 350
report on the accounts of 547
Rhode Island brigade, officers of 6
regiments (twb) ordered by Con-
gress, officers of 10
to be clothed from cargo of prize ship, 12
Gen. Spencerrecommended toattack,155
arrangements for 155
resolve of Congress relative to an
attack on the British at 216
Rhode Island expedition, committee
to inquire into the cause of the fail-
ure of 310, 312
acts relative to delinquents in the
late expedition against 552, 470
report of committee of property lost in,486
Rhode Island, resolution for the relief
of the people of 474
appropriation of .£1,000 for 475
Rhodes, James 218, 256, 339, 504
Joseph 79, 100
Nehemiah 219
Robert 299, 563
William 218, 254, 389, 532
report relative to taking possession
of certain lands in Glocester 619
Rice, Henry 6
Joseph 595
John 576
Randall 263
Thomas, Jr 218, 387, 391, 534
Richards, George 80, 354
Richmond, David 222
Percy 4, 127, 158, 201' 200, 574
William, Col 30, 31, 39, 323. 492
Rings, Abimelech . . .11, 65, 348, 391, 533
Robinson, Christopher 268, 355, 587
Elihu 227,386
James 154, 178
Rowland 508
Sylvester 5, 125, 176, 589
William 404, 435, 509
INDEX.
657
Rodman, Daniel, 4, 21, 50, CO. 110, 14a,
101, 385
Leonard 105
Robert 328
Ropers, Priscilla 288
Robert 70
Daniel 474
Rome, George 10, 104
Rose, John ... 506
John, Jr 16
Ross, Isaac 303, 504
Thomas 218, 254
John 462, 486
Rounds, Bertram 13, 240
George 150
Row galley, Spitfire, offiers of, 107, 230,
246
Washington 242, 269
Ray, William 65, 303, 535
Roy all, Isaac 66
Rumreill, Thomas, 218, 316, 386, 474, 507,
616
Russell, Jonathan 130
William, Col 258
Salt taken in Newport 615
Saltpetre, bounty on 22, 237
to be collected 233
Sands, Edward 128, 501, 515
Edward, Jr 16
John 16, 158, 515
John, Jr 16
Lucy 577
Ray, Col 50, 77, 170, 222, 567
Saunders, David 486
Peleg 179,302,534
Stephen 392, 534
Waite 500
Sayer, Joshua 79, 248, 511
Savles, Israel 138
John 529, 620
John, Jr., Col. 45, 150, 218, 310, 310,
386
Richard, Jr 392
William 78
Schedules of the Assembly to be sent
to Congress 481
Scituate Hunters, officers of 249
Schuj'ler, General, Philip, letter to
Governor Cooke 68
Scott, Rhoda, has leave to accompany
Jemima Wilkinson to England . .469
Jeremiah 631
Jeremiah, Jr 535
Joseph 158
Seagar, Samuel 179, 328
Joseph 602
Seamans, Martin 110, 138, 188, 230
Seamon to be impressed 230, 245
Sears, George, Col 3, 6
Searle, Nathaniel, Jr 210, 356, 387
Senter, Center, Isaac, Dr 84, 530
Sewall, Samuel 104
Shaw, John 46, 260
Sylvanus 127, 230
Shearman, Abel 18
Benjamin 601
Charles ,..319
VOL, Till. 83
Shearman, David 372
Humphrey 471, 565
John 238
Robert 372
Sheffield, Benjamin 510, 599
Jeremiah 21, 149
Robert 191
Samuel 234
Thomas 84, 244, 301, 463, 186
Sheldon, Benjamin 392, .",:;4
Caleb 222
Christopher 446
Daniel 78, 264, 355, 572
Palmer 345
Stephen 45
Sheppardson, Benjamin 4
Sherburne, Henry 10, 86. 244, 535
Sherman, Ro eer 148
Short, John, Jr 536
Silver mine in Cumberland, aid to
open the same 374
committee to examine the mine 374
Simmon, Jonathan 577
Simmons, Adam 387,414
Ephraim 393
Edward 158
Gideon, report on the case of 227
George ...393,422,583
Isaiah . 107
Peleg 256
William 393
Sisson, Elisha 136
Gideon 323,325
Sisters, prize ship 400
Slack, Benjamin 374
Slaves, General Washington proposes
to General Varnum to enlist . . . 359
letter of General Varnum to Gen.
Washington relative to enlisting
negroes 641
resolution to enlist two battalions of, 359
value of, how to be estimated . . 360, 363
protest relative thereto 361
enlisted, master of, to receive inter-
est on their value 376
time for enlisting limited 399
owner of, to be paid 465
letter of Governor Cooke to Wash-
ington relative to . . .524
act to prevent them from being car-
ried out of the state 618
Slocum Charles 174, 234, 309, 366
Ebenezer 50, 174, 308, 366, 439
Edward 36, 126, 536
John 196
Peleg 65
Sarah 105, 344
Small pox, hospital to be established in
North Providence 110
towns ma}- erect hospitals for 275
Smith, Christopher 11,36, 74, 319
Coomer 302, 534
Ephraim 368
F., Brig. General, letter to Governor
Cooke, relative to Gen. Prescott, 281
Hezekiah 567
Israel 303, 534
John 3, 10, 02, 120, 218, 387, 530
658
Smith, John, Jr 219
Jonathan 13, 249
Joseph 560
Martin 222
Neheiniah 564
Noah 53, 138
Oziel 392
Peter 376
Richard 6, 24, 109, 220, 389, 627
Rovzel 45, 65, 153, 267
Simon 230, 372
Stephen 201, 219, 254, 566
Thomas 244
Thomas, son of John 355
Smithfield Rangers 395
Snow, James 391, 533
Joseph 565
Joseph, Jr 602
Samuel 268, 354,511
Soldiers, act to raise a regiment for
three months, Nov. 1776 42
officers chosen for 45
act to raise seven hundred and fifty
men and a train of artillery 61
pay of .66, 105, 106
mode of draughting 81
act establishing hospital for 83
rations established for 92
five hundred ordered to be raised, 200,
224, 229, 243
quota of one thousand, for each
town in the state 203
fifteen months' brigade 247
quota of each town for 248
complain of the want of clothing 296
act to prevent their selling camp
utensils 326
act for raising and equipping fifteen
hundred men 345
families provided for 405
eighteen hundred and thirty-nine to
be raised for filling battalions 409
apportionment of, to towns ... 411
act for raising and equipping fifteen
hundred 509
brigade to be divided into two bat-
talions 561
in Continental army, pay of 590
act to prevent them from being car-
ried off by vessels 617
Soule, Sowle, Henry 154
Jacob 59, 439
Southwick, Solomon 356
Spencer, Ebenezer 46, 269, 564
Hannah 598
Mary 350
Michael 392
Randall 427
Rufus 219
Stephen 18
Thomas 53, 350, 369
Major General 119
recommended to attack R. Island. . .154
letter to Governor Cooke 214
brigade to be formed under 306
William , 552
Spink, Oliver 73
Silas 601
Spink, Nicholas 601
Spitfire, galley , 10
Spooner, Charles 155
Wing 45
Sprague, Daniel 394, 535
Ebenezer 219, 294
Joseph 392
Springer, Joseph 79, 356, 512
Richmond 126, 356
Springfield, convention to meet at, rela-
tive to issues of paper money 276
delegates to 278
letter from Massachusetts relative
to 280
Sproat, Col 265
Stable, James 15
Stacy, Thomas 155
Staff department of the army, act to
inquire into 618
Stafford, Arnold 53, 457
Daniel 79,393
John 391, 533
Stukeley 391,534
Stanton, Augustus 129, 239
Andrew 264, 356, 512
Enoch 256, 465, 492
John, Capt 620
Joseph 13,319
Joseph, Jr., 4, 24, 52, 138, 387, 490, 530,
532, 544
resigns his commission as colonel. . .328
Marlborough 129
Robert 387
Starbuck, Samuel 7
State government, convention to form
a plan for 304
Stedman, William 392, 566
Steel, bounty offered for the manufac-
ture of 240
Steere, Richard 4, 5, 209, 220, 531
Stelle, Benjamin 46, 79, 138, 256, 332
Sterry, Cyprian 11, 36, 74, 78
Stevens, Robert 504
Robert, Jr 133, 286, 386, 397, 474
Samuel 45
Thomas, Jr 297
William 110
Stillman, George. . .179, 391, 462, 477, 534
Stillwell, Daniel 565
Stockings ordered to be furnished by
the towns to the soldiers, 314, 332,
450
Stoddard, Israel 230
Israel, Jr 355
Stone, James 151
T 34
Jeremiah 512
Uriah 578
Streeter, George 564
Sufferings, records of the meetings of. 330
Sumner, James 102, 343, 423, 617
Sunderland, Daniel 219
Sullivan, Maj. Gen., 416, 427, 489, 514
memorial of 397
thanks of the General Assembly
voted to 508
ordered to purchase and equip an
armed vessel, , , 513
INDEX.
$59
Supplies for the army, resolution to
prevent excessive charges for 51
prices of, to be fixed by law 08
act regulating prices of 85
resolution of Congress relative to ... 377
Suspected persons, orders relative to, 11
515
committee to inquire into the con-
duct of 558
Swan, Thomas 46, 78
Sweet, Angell 392, 534
George, Jr 468
Samuel 64,88,311
Sarah 311
William 47, 53
William, Jr 392
Syren, ship 16, 373, 400, 455
Taber, Constant 474
Pardon 385
Taggart, William, Capt 323, 388, 531
Talbot, Silas 10, 36, 80, 639, 640
thanks of the General Assembly vot-
ed to 476
sword voted to 491
commissioned to go on a cruise . ... 622
Tallman, Benjamin 45, 64, 74
Tanner, Abel 407, 530
John 56, 131, 218, 229, 316, 386
Tappan, Dr 268
Taxes, protest of Newport and other
towns against 131
report of committee upon 150
protest against the tax bill 150
act to assess 176
not to be assessed upon inhabitants
of towns in possession of the ene-
my 195
various assessments of, 295, 301, 330,
351, 352, 372, 377, 439, 471, 503, 509,
554, 556, 568, 617, 624.
protest against tax of 225,000 569
Taylor, Edward 256
John 566
Joseph Spencer. ... 198
Nathan 227, 394, 561
Philip 188, 220, 388, 557
Kobert 227,560
Samuel 501
Tefft, Daniel 566
Daniel, 3d 372
Ebenezer ... .24, 192, 211, 308, 385, 477
Gardner 395, 561
George 227, 440
Jeremiah 394, 566
Joseph 530
Pardon 394, 566,
Solomon 211, 385
William 137, 477
Tender consciences, acts for the relief
of 122,204
Tenant, Gordon 412
Tennant, George 263
Test act, or declaration 39
orders relative to, 22, 187, 291, 405, 447
Tew, Benedict 126
Henry, Jr 12
James 23,2^
Tew, Paul 6, 272
William 36
Thanksgiving appointed by the Con-
tinental Congress 321
Thayer, Esau 552
Simeon 36, 126, 256, 280, 635, 639
sword presented to, for gallant ser-
vices 279
Thomas, Alexander 264, 356, 512
Benjamin 432
Richard 398
Thomson, Thompson, Charles, 29, 230,
322
Elias, Jr 126
Thompson, Ebenezer 6, 224, 229, 316
Edward 395, 469
Samuel 486
Thomas 45, 65
Throop, William 535
Tliurber, Samuel, Jr 563
Edward, Jr 583
Thurls, John 132
Thurston, Elizabeth 311
George 377, 387, 535
George, Jr 65, 394
Joseph 394, 535, 566
Tibbitts, Waterman 299
Ticonderoga 281
Tillinghast, Benjamin, 4, 5, 188, 219, 220,
244, 389, 566
Daniel, 50, 126, 138, 209, 227, 228, 393,
545, 560
John 64
Nicholas 126
Pardon 137, 377
Thomas, 6, 137, 201. 254, 299, 356, 387,
390, 529, 532, 566, 616
Toll by millers, act regulating 617
Topham, John, Col., 36, 126, 155, 263,
348, 356, 511, 561
Tourtellot, Abraham 356, 512, 553
Daniel 492
Tower, Enoch 300
Townsend, Solomon 46
Thomas 577
Traffin, Philip 349, 512
Trask, Ebenezer 392, 534
Trasten, Philip. . . , 79
Treason, act against, to be drawn 239
act against 246
Trevett, Eleazer 372
Trim, Godfrey 16
Tripp, Ezekie*l 468
Troop, William 300
Troops, see soldiers.
Troop of horse, report relative to an
allowance to 437
Troop, Amos 110
William 393
Trumbull, Governor, letter to Gov-
ernor Cooke, relative to the at-
tack on Rhode Island 256
letters to Governor Greene 423, 443
Tucker, Richard 534
Turner, Amos 152
John 3
Moses 45, 154
Peter .230
660
INDEX.
Tyler, Isaac 107, 578
James 392, 537
Moses 4
William 540
Uunderwood, Benjamin, 4, 5, 110, 131,
156, 188, 219, 220, 319, 387, 388
John 404
Joseph 311
Mary 311
Samuel 376
United Company of Artillery, Provi-
dence, officers of 227, 560
Updike, John, 7, 316, 340, 386, 397,412,
422, 501
Lodowick 195, 480
Updike's Newtown, military compa-
ny to be formed at 197
Utter," Jeremiah 301
Varnum, James Mitchell, 10, 26, 32, 599,
601, 615
brigadier general 64, 94, 544
appointed brigadier general in
the Continental army 173
letter to Washington, recommend-
ing that Rhode Island raise a
battalion of negroes 641
Vassall, William 66,261,471
Vaughan, Joshua 392, 545
John 493
William 514
Vendue, act to prevent the selling of
goods by 351
Vernon, Thomas ... 12
Vessel (armed), ordered built 153
five ordered to be fitted out 270
Vincent, William 191, 276, 369, 604
Wade, Nathaniel 534
Zebulon . . 534
Waite, Beriah, 138, 255, 385, 392, 497,
545
John 16, 394, 561, 617
Yelverton 7
Wallcutt, Benjamin Stewart 78, 355
Benjamin 264
see also Wolaitt.
Edward Kitchen 507
Waldron, John 66, 261
Walker, Philip 566
William 392
Wall, Daniel 356, 512
Samuel 188, 191, 589
William 64
Wallen, Jonathan 10, 96
Washington, General, letter from,
relative to prisoners 29
letter to Governor Cooke, relative
to the army, October 12, 1776 ... .34
return of officers recommended by,
for new establishment 36
letter to Governor Cooke, relative
to the loss of Rhode Island 112
letter to Governor Cooke, January
20, 1777 114
letter to Governor Cooke, February
6,1777 189
Washington, General, letter to Gov-
ernor Cooke, April 3, 1777 212
letter to Governor Cooke, Julv 7.
1777 1.. ..281
letter to Governor Cooke, January
2, 1778 640
letter to Governor Greene, Novem-
ber 23, 1779 642
letter to Governor Greene, Decem-
ber 25, 1779 643
proposal to enlist slaves, and action
thereafter 359
Wanton, Gideon - 3,12
John 3
John G 15
Ward, Artemas, letter to Governor
Cooke 68
Ward, Henry, 4, 57, 77, 147, 218, 219,
229,256,275,316,386,422
report of his visit to Massachusetts
to obtain aid for the state 288
Samuel 36,126,536
Wares, William Richmond 355, 512
Warner, John . .80, 238, 354, 387,410, 511
Moses 416
Nathan 564
Oliver Ring 474
William 602
Warren, Major General 25
Joseph 577
Warren, court records of, removed for
safety 74
attack of the enemy at 463
Warren, ship 230
Waterman, Andrew 209, 529
Elisha 4,209,631
James 272
John 6, 159, 221, 485, 529
Laban 46, 394, 536
Thomas 11, 30, 126, 127, 484, 583
William 256, 563
Waters, Ebenezer 139
Watson, Job 194, 380, 571
Moses 46
Weatherhead, Amaziah 595
Enoch 394
Weaver, Benjamin 393
Elijah 393
Joseph 393, 535
Langford 393, 535
Webb, James 36, 126
Joshua 394, 566
Weeden, Damaris 311
Edward 141
Hannah 311
John 125, 136, 148, 392
John, son of Daniel 392, 534
Peleg 311
Pliebe 311
Weight, John 227, 256
Yelverton 224
Welch, John 356,512
Welles, Edward 219, 231, 301, 308
Henry 394, 535
James 393, 534
John 147
Thomas, 4, 5, 58, 110. 127, 189, 201,
219, 272, 300, 387, 388, 492, 531, 535
INDEX.
661
Weight, Randall 394, 535, 566
Thomas, Jr 394, 535
Weathers, Abel 107
West Benjamin 74, 143, 210, 348, 51*2
Ebenezer 11, 36, 126
Joseph 268,408
Timothy 356
William, General, 4, 7, 94, 173, 201.
221, 224, 390, 493, 544
Westerly, a guard to be placed on the
shores of 124
Westcott, Caleb 568
Ephraim 4, 1 10, 201 , 209, 219, 530
Gideon 64, 80, 354, 511
Jabez 80, 260, 268
Jabez, Jr 64
Nathan 79
Stukely 265
Uriah 8,268
Wheaton, Joseph ... 597
Seth 391, 533
Wheeler, Bennett 602
Whipple, Abraham, Capt 245
Amos 99, 394, 535
Benajah 263, 348, 534
Benjamin 469
Christopher 132
Jeremiah 5, 220, 389, 530
Joseph 74
Peck 369
Samuel 78,244
Simon 244, 390, 532
William 79, 214, 263, 349
Whitmarsh, Joseph 11, 36
John 126
Micah 45, 65, 566
White. Walter 586
Whitehorn, James 372
Whitman, Jacob 390
Whitridge, William 256
Wickham, Thomas 487
Charles 363
Wight, David 534
Wightman, Frederick 236
Daniel 588
George 236, 345, 459, 514
Holmes 236, 367
James 366
Moses 586
Philip 564
Reuben 74
Stephen .299
Valentine 625, 635
Wigneron, Stephen. . .13, 46, 84, 439, 512
Wilbur, Wilbour, Aaron . . 254
Wilbur, Wilbour, Aaron, Jr 264
Samuel 392, 534
William 442
Wilkinson, Benjamin 394
David 137
Jemima, of Cumberland, a preachpr,
has permission to go to Kngland,
to preach there, and to take Mary
Wilkinson and Rhoda Scott with
her 469
Philip 232
Marcy 469
Willcox, Benjamin 264, 355, 512
George 46, 432, 566
Hezckiah 407
Jeremiah 272, 489
Jeffrey 4, 322, 544, 564
Joseph 251
John 474, 512
Williams, Andrew 159
Frederick 394, 535
James 65, 207, 263, 248, 356, 511
Jonathan, of Nantz 596
Joseph 159
Waterman 147
William .. 34
Zadock 264
Wilmarth, Timothy 387
Timothy, Jr 221
Windsor, Abraham 534, 564
Winsor, Olney 480
Samuel 219, 254
Stephen 219, 231, 393, 534
Witherspoon, John 34
Wolcott, Edward Kitchen, of Brook-
line, report on his petition rela-
tive to Point Judith Farm 608
Wood, George 564
Ichabod 565
Wood, assessment to make on, for the
use of the army 357
Woodman, John, 2d 565
Woodmansie, Joseph, Jr 219
John 394, 566
Wright, Ann 599
David 392
Peter 73, 299, 391, 414
Wyatt, Lemuel 474
Wyllis, Frederick 596
Wythe, George 34
Yeates, Jonathan 533
Samuel, Jr 602
York, John 635
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