[Extract]
No.48

That by Colonel [Joseph] Gorham lately arrived here from Boston I am inform'd that Fifteen hundred of the Rebels had marched Eastward under the Command of General [John] Thomas so called, that it was given out by the Rebels, that they intended a Descent on this Province as well as Canada, that their design was to destroy the Navy Yard here, & Cut off all supply of Wood, Hay, & Provision from the Troops at Boston.²

In this Emergency I am using my utmost Endeavour to protect this Province from Invasion. I have issued a Proclamation for putting the Military Laws of this Province in Execution, as the Rebels have made a Descent at St Johns River, & Burnt Fort Frederick and Seized on a Vessel there loaden with live Stock for the Troops in Boston.