[Philadelphia] Saturday, October 7, 1775
Agreeable to the order of the day the Congress resumed the consideration of the Resolution submitted by the Delegates of Rhode Island,2 and
Upon motion, Resolved, That the consideration of it be deferred till Monday 16 Inst
The committee appointed to take into consideration the letter from the Convention of New York, respecting the fortifications ordered to be erected on Hudson's River, brought in their report, which being read, was agreed to, as follows:
That the provincial Convention of New York be directed immediately to render Hudson's river defensible; That in doing this they may be particularly attentive to form such works as may be finished before the winter sets in. That it is very doubtful whether any stone work can be properly made at this advanced season, it is therefore submitted to the judgment of the convention, whether it could not be more cheaply and expeditiously done by works of wood or fassines. If they should think otherwise, that they be directed to go on with the work in the way which they think best, since it is the opinion of this Congress that the work should by no means be neglected.
But if the work be already begun on the plan sent us, that they render such parts as can be first finished defensible, so that the labour be not thrown away, if an attack should be made before the whole can be finished.
That the convention be directed to enquire whether there are not some other places where small batteries might be erected, so as to annoy the enemy on their passage, particularly, a few heavy cannon at or near Moore's house, and at a point on the west shore, a little above Verplank's point.
That it be recommended to the said convention, to establish, at proper distances, posts to be ready to give intelligence to the country, in case of any invasion, or by signals to give alarms in case of danger, and that they confer with the Assembly of Connecticut, and Convention of New Jersey on the speediest manner of conveying intelligence in such cases, and receiving assistance when necessary.
That the convention be farther directed to take the most effectual method to obstruct the navigation of the said river, if, upon examination, they find it practicable.3
On motion made,
Resolved, That orders be sent to General Wooster, in case he has no orders to the contrary from General Schuyler, that he immediately return to the batteries erecting in the highlands, and there leave as many of his troops, as the conductors of the works shall think will be necessary for compleating them, and that he repair with the remainder to New York.
Resolved, that the Consideration of the resolve of Rhode Island be referred till next Monday week.4
Butterfield, ed., Diary and Autobiography of John Adams, II, 198-199.