Copy of a Letter to General Clinton

Sir Give me leave to enclose a Copy of a Letter from Mr [Martin] Jollie a Member of the Council of this Province, he went a few Weeks ago to Savannah on private Affairs. I desired him to make all the Observations he could. I am now more anxious for the Return of Mr [John] Stuart, and an Answer to the Plan I propose.

You know Sir there is a most material difference in the Effect which will work upon the Minds of the People we have to oppose us, in being attacked or the Attackers.

Last Summer I could only obtain the Assistance of the St Lawrence Schooner from Boston as a maritime Force, the General could do no more; I therefore was contented to do as well as I could in that Situation.

You know now Sir, a tollerable Idea of our Situation, if you reject the Plan I have sent you, it will give me pleasure because I shall be confident you have adopted a better, but I wish at the same time to have pointed out to me wherein I can be of Service; as I have nothing so much at heart.

Then Sir upon Ideas that the Plan may not be useful, You will give me leave to sollicit that some armed Vessels may be sent to this Province, for the protection of our Rivers, and that as little time may be lost in doing it as possible, I hope this will not interfere with the Measures which you may have concerted ー

Upon this Intelligence I have sent for the Seminolie Indians. ー I shall station them between this place and St John River, and from St John River to St Mary River. ー

The King's Troops are too few to be seperated  I trust the God of Victory will Crown His Majesty's Arms with success and that you Sir will ride in safety in the Whirlwind I am &ca

(Signed) Pat. Tonyn

St Augustine 17th February 1776

[Endorsed] In Govr Tonyn's of 16 Febry 1776 (No 39).