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Sir  On the 3d instt An Insurrection happened here ー The People took it in their heads, A Merchant (Mr [George] Rome) had bought some Provisions for the Use of Government ー they stopped the Carts, threw about the Flour, flew to Arms with an avowed intent to destroy the Merchant's House and Stores crying out through the Streets now was the time to kill the Tories ー Intelligence was given me of this Transaction ー I went on Shore saw the Rebels, coming in Shoals, Armed with Musquets, Bayonets, Sticks and Stones &c. Was it possible I could be a Spectator of this? ー I got a hundred Men and More ashore well appointed. Stopt them in their Career, told them upon the first Act of Hostility We would rush on and put every Man to the Sword, and at the same time order the Ships to fire the Town in every quarter ー This together with the prayers and entreaties of Several of their principal Men (who were alarmed at the Prospect) put a Stop to an Affair wherein the lives of hundreds were concerned.

In the beginning of the Fray, one of the most daring of the Rebels who pressed too close on upon us I seized by the Collar and made Prisoner. Many Gentlemen of the Town begged Me to give him up, And if I did thy assured me they would disperse and restore peace to the Town. answered them, I came on shore for No other purpose than to keep the Peace ー and preserve from destruction the King's friends ー Could I be assured of that I would tum him out instantly turned out he was. they soon after retired and dispersed ー And we embarked on board after being on shore about four Hours. During which time our people behaved with the greatest good Order. Different Reports say there was from three to Seven hundred Men under Arms besides those with Sticks Stones &ca while on shore we were joined by Lieutt Brenton of the Navy upon half pay here, who I must do the Justice to Say Shewed every disposition of a good Officer, and Subject, and for which he is obliged to abandon his family and farm, and take shelter on board His Majesty's Ship. The people of the Town having Sworn and attempted his destruction. I am &c.