Honorable Sirs  For some Months past we have persevered in our Duty notwithstanding many Threats, & Insults from the Lawless Sons of Violence but lately being well assured of a concerted Plan to confine us and then to lay at their Mercy, it behoved us with other Friends to the British Constitution to take refuge onboard His Majesty's Ship Canceaux on the 24th Instant, where we continued till the 26th refusing to enter or clear Vessels, unless it might be done, without Molestation at the Custom House, and Security promised us from the Select Men. This Step together with a Letter from Captain [Henry] Mowat firmly demanded Protection for all Friends to Government, has produced a Letter to him and another to us assuring Safety in our Business and to our Families, but this we depend on no longer than a King's Ship is in the Harbour. We therefore humbly beg leave to say that as Capt. Mowat from his present Orders will soon depart, We may not continue here, but at the risque of losing the Custom House Books, & Effects as well as our Lives. ー To prevent these impending Evils permit us to to intreat your Honors Interest with the Commanders of His Majesty's Fleet & Army, to grant us in this our distressed and dangerous Situation such Protection as they in their Wisdom shall think proper. We are Honorable Sirs [&c.]

Custom House, Falmouth April 29, 1775