Fort Johnston [North Carolina]. May 20th 1775.
(Copy)
Sir, I am credibly informed that a Body of Militia in this Province have actually taken Arms against the Government and are determined to attack His Majesty's Fort and Garrison under my Command, in order to enable themselves to oppose and keep off His Majesty's Ships and Troops, that may be ordered here: In this Fort the King has a very valuable Sett of Artillery, but a very inconsiderable Number of men to defend it; & above all my Store of Powder is just exhausted, & most likely the Supply His Excellcy. Genl. [Thomas] Gage is sending will come too late: It is my Duty to lay my situation before you & crave your Assistance and Protection, with which I am conscious I can repulse any Force, and answer the trust reposed in me; any quantity of Powder you can spare me will be received most thankfully (for I have not to load again after the first firing) & the proximity of your Ship will ansr all my wishes;
I am respectfully, Sir [&c.]
J: Collet2
1. PRO, Admiralty 1/485, LC Transcript.
2. "Mr Collett . . . still is Governor of Fort Johnson in North Carolina, appointed by order from England, and left to the Province for his Pay who have refused to Pay him any Salary, because he was not of their own Appointment," Gage to Barrington, January 6, 1773, Gage Mss., CL.
