In Committee of Safety for the Colony of New-York, during the recess of the Provincial Congress.
[New York] January 3d, 1776.
Die Mercurii, A.M.
Col. [Alexander] McDougall informed the Committee that some days ago he received a letter from Mr. Lewis Pintard informing him that a vessel from Hispaniola with gunpowder on board, was on this coast; that he apprehended Delaware river was so obstructed with ice that the vessel would not be able to enter there, and that therefore there is reason to expect her to attempt coming into this port; and that Mr. Pintard had farther informed him, that if this vessel succeeeded in her voyage, an armed vessel was ready at Hispaniola to follow her with a like cargo.
Col. McDougall, farther informed the Committee, that no proper pilot boat could be obtained to go to Sandy-Hook to look out for the said vessel, to navigate her to a place of safety; and that by the advice of the other members of the Committee then present he had purchased a whale boat, with oars, for $27, and had employed Capt. William Dobbs at 10s. per day, and four other men at 5s per day each, besides their necessary provisions and expenses, and given them proper directions and sent them to Sandy-Hook to watch and look out for the said vessel, there to remain 8 days, if the said vessel did not arrive sooner.
The Committee of Safety fully approved of and ratified the said agreement made by Col. McDougall, and direct him to return an account of the expenses to this Committee, as soon as he can ascertain the same.
Ordered, That Mr.Wm. Lowther be permitted to supply one hhd. of rum, or spirits, to the purser or officers of His Majesty's ship Phoenix, and to have the same conveyed on board of the said ship.
