Whenever it may be in your Power, you are hereby required and directed to seize and keep in safe custody the Persons of any of the Delegates to the Congress at Philadelphia, and any of the Rebel General Officers, or [John Morin] Scot, [Isaac] Sears, Espinard [Leonard Lispenard] the Brewer at New York, who are some of the most active Leaders and Abettors of the Rebellion.

By narrowly watching the Ferries from New York to the Jersey's and Long Island, you will, if your Intentions are kept secret, most likely take some Prisoners of Consequence.

In Case of your seizing any of the People aforementioned, you are to send them to me by the most safe and expeditious Conveyance.

Given under my hand on board his Majs Ship Preston at Boston the 13 Septr 1775