[Fishkill] Sunday, P.M. December 1st, 1776.
A draft of a letter to be addressed to John Teller, John Elmendorf, Jeremiah Clark and Nicholas Brewer, Junr. appointed agents for collecting boats, scows and crafts by the third resolution passed yesterday for obstructing the navigation of Hudson's river, was read and approved of, in the following words, vizt:
Decr 1st, 1776.
Sir: — The necessity of obstructing the navigation of Hudson's river near Pollepel's Island, having been resolved upon as an object of the utmost moment to the safety of this State, the enclosed resolutions have been adopted.
The advanced season of the year requires that the preparations should be made with the utmost vigour; and from an opinion which the Committee of Safety entertain, of your activity and zeal for the common cause in which we are engaged, they have unanimously appointed you to the trust mentioned in the said resolutions. They entertain no doubt that you will execute it with fidelity, despatch and cheerfulness.
I am, sir [&c.] By order.