Gentlemen,

The Enemy's Fleet, consisting of upwards of 100 Sail of Men of War and Transports, have arrived in the Mouth of the Bay, and are now steering towards this Town, both upon the East and West Side of Conanicut, who may be here before Morning: I therefore earnestly beseech the Assistance and Aid of our Sister States, and that every Person capable of bearing Arms will forthwith appear, to stop the Progress of the Enemy. If they get a Lodgment in this Town, they will soon penetrate the Country. You will all come properly armed, with the necessary Accoutrements, and with Blankets, Knapsacks, and such Provisions as you can bring with you. I am, Gentlemen, in haste [&c.]

Providence, December 7, 1776, 4 o'Clock P.M.

To all the Brave Inhabitants of New-England.