His Excellency the Governor having represented to me that it is of the utmost Consequence to seize all Vessels laden with Provisions, as well to distress the Rebels as to be of use to his Majesty's liege Subjects here; You are hereby required and directed to be vigilant in looking out for and searching all Vessels and to secure such as may have Provisions, Arms or Ammunition on board, and not suffer them to [enter] any of the Ports in this Province but Boston to which Place you are either to see them in safety yourself, or put a sufficient Force on board for that purpose.

Given under my Hand on board his Majs Ship Preston at Boston the 14th May 1775

To Captain Collins of his Majs. Sloop Nautilus and to all the other Ships & Vessels.

By Command &c.