Preston Boston 13th May 1775
[Extract]
[Second Letter]
In obedience to their Lordships Order I have purchased two Schooners, and established them as armed Schooners, One by the Name of St Laurence, the other of Halifax, meaning by the latter name to continue that of the late Halifax lost near Machias. I have given an Order to Lieut John Graves to command the St Laurence and Mr John De la Touche I have ordered to command the Halifax.
The Fears of a few well disposed people to risk their Vessels, and the determination of the rest to prevent the Army and Navy having Supplies of provisions and Fuel, have caused most of the Vessels in this province to be dismantled and laid up. It was with great difficulty I could purchase the two Schooners I have got, for under the severe prohibition of the Rebel Generals few people dare to supply us. I have directed the Halifax and St Laurence to be fitted at Halifax Yard and to return with all possible expedition to Boston.