[Watertown] In Council Jany 26 1776
It having been represented to the Council that some time last Fall his Honour General [Artemas] Ward directed that one Haswell an officer of the British Navy and now on half pay be removed from Hull. (or Nantaskett) to the Town of Hingham there to be supported at the Public expence, that he was removed accordingly, and there remains with his Family ー
And it having also been represented that it is unfit for him to remain there, considering the situation of said Town, that it borders on Boston Harbour that it is but a few miles from whence now and generally the Ships of War ride that the said Haswell may with ease Correspond with their Officers, that he has evidenced himself to be unfriendly to the Interest of the united Colonies by frequently making such false representations among the Inhabitants as tend to cause divisions, to strengthen our Enemies to intimidate and weaken our friends ー
It is therefore Resolved that Benjamin Lincoln Esqr wait on his Excellency General Washington and lay before him this state of the matter, and request that he would direct the said Haswell with his Family be removed to some inland Town, or other ways dispose of, as his Excellency shall think proper.