Preston Boston Novr 23, 1775.
Sir
When Captain Tollemache Sailed from hence the latter end of August he had Orders to seize any Ship or Vessel with Rice and to send her to Boston; Captain Thornborough of the Tamer then stationed at Charles Town had similar Directions; indeed all the Ships have long had Orders to seize and send to Boston every kind of Provision and Grain for the use of this Garrison. The Tamer and Cruizer Sloops are daily expected from Charles Town and Cape Fear: but it is impossible for me to say whether they bring with them any Rice Vessels or not. I am &c
Sam. Graves.
1. Graves's Conduct, I, 169, BM.