A Proclamation.
By his Excellency the Hon. William Howe, Major General and Commander in Chief of all his Majesty's Forces, within the Colonies lying on the Atlantic Ocean, from Nova Scotia to West Florida, inclusive, &c.
Whereas several of the inhabitants of this town have lately absconded, to join, it is apprehended, his Majesty's enemies, assembled in open rebellion, I do, by virtue of the power and authority in me vested by his Majesty, forbid any person or persons whatever, not belonging to the navy, to pass from hence by water or otherwise, from the date hereof, without my order or permission given in writing. Any person or persons detected in the attempt, or who may be retaken, upon sufficient proof thereof, shall be liable to military execution; and those who escape shall be treated as traitors, by seizure of their goods and effects. All masters of transports, or other vessels, sailing from hence, unless under the immediate order of Samuel Graves, Esq; Vice Admiral of the White, &c. &c. &c., or officer commanding his Majesty's ships of war on this service for the time being, are hereby strictly forbidden to receive any person or persons on board, without my order or permission in writing. Any master or others detected in disobeying this proclamation shall be liable to such fine and imprisonment as may be adjudged.
Given at Head-Quarters in Boston the 28th day of October, 1775.
