Whereas his Excellency the Governor hath represented to me that some of the Inhabitants of the Eastern parts of this Province have threatened to intercept and destroy the Vessels of Mr Ichabod Jones, who has engaged to supply the Garrison at Boston with Fuel and Lumber; and whereas it is necessary to encourage as much as possible the bringing in Supplies of these Articles and of Provisions for the use of the Army, Navy, and Inhabitants of the Town, and to Protect the Persons and Property of those who are so usefully employed. You are therefore hereby required and directed to take under your Convoy the five Vessels belonging to Mr Ichabod Jones, and any others bound to the Eastward, and proceed with them to Mechias, where you are to remain for their Protection while they are lading, and as soon as they are ready to come away again you are to return with them to Boston; Using your utmost Endeavours to take or destroy all armed Vessels that are acting illegally or that are annoying any of his Majesty's loyal and peaceable Subjects.

And whereas I am informed the Guns of the late Halifax Schooner have been taken up, and are now in the possession of some persons at Mechias, you are to endeavour to get the said Guns, and bring them to Boston, assuring the present Possessor that Salvage for them shall be paid to himself or to any Person he shall order to receive it either in Boston or Halifax. And in the Management of this Businesss Mr Jones will give you all the Information and Assistance he can.

Given under my hand on board his Majs Ship Preston at Boston the 26 May 1775