Preston Boston 16th June 1775
Sir,
The Army is in great Want of Beef and Pork, which I am informed there is a probability of obtaining about the Coast between Block Island and Newhaven in the Sound, as great Quantities of Pork are usually shipped at this Season from Connecticut to the West Indies and the Eastern parts of this Province and that of New Hampshire. It is therefore my Directions that you do endeavour by all Means possible to put in Execution the Order you have received to seize and send to Boston all Vessels with Provisions, Salt, Melasses, &c.
I am &c.
Saml Graves
1. Graves's Conduct, Appendix, 441, 442, MassHS Transcript.