Copy of Orders given to William Jennison Lieut. of Marines—June 9. 1778.—
As it is essentially necessary We guard against all possible Apprehensions of Danger, I in future shall expect that the Serjeants & Corporals of Marines be very particular in keeping a vigilant & cautious Watch whenever they have any Centinels under their more immediate Eye, and whenever All hands are called to Quarters, they are to muster all the Marines on the Quarter Deck, there to await further Orders.—
As soon as they are paraded, the Serjeants of each Division, are to apply for the keys of the Arm chest—in order that each man may be supplied with a Gun & Cartridge Box filled with Cartridges, or any other proper Weapon for Defence—
After they are supplied with their Armour, they are to be paraded, & marched to their particular Quarters, there to be kept as closely covered from the Sight of the Enemy as possible—
No one is allowed to speak, but the officers Commanding, or the Serjeants, or in their Absence, the Corporal, are most particularly to see that every man’s Gun, & other Accoutrements are in the best order possible.—
If any thing should be wanted, they are immediately to inform the Commanding Officer therewith—
The Serjeants & Corporals are to parade with the Main Body as soon as in Gun Shot of the Enemy—
After an Engagement, or otherwise—Every man is to return his Gun in as good Order as when delivered to him—during the time from being called to Quarters & engaging, every man is to pick Oakam sufficient to clean his Gun—
No man whether Officer or private, is suffered to desert the post assigned him, but in case he attempts to run, or fly from his Colours he is to be shot upon the Spot, wherefore I hope, as the Caution is now given, None will attempt to be in the least disconcerted or disheartened, but Act worthy of the Glorious Cause in which they are Engaged.
Given under my hand on board of the
Boston June 9. 17781
