[Extract]

Sir,ー Here, nothing material has happened since your departure. But it seems there is a party in Newport endeavoring to get the troops re-called off the island, for reasons, in my opinion, not sufficient only for the flattering promises of Capt. [James] Wallace. He promising to let the wood and ferry-boats pass as vessels, and not to rob them of any stock on that island, and that he will not fire on the town without provocation, unless he is hereafter ordered, and then not without fore warning. In consideration of the above promises, he is to have the privilege of fresh meat and beer, &c., for his ships as usual. But his faith and promises have been of so little value to us, in this government, I hope they will not have much weight. It seems to be strongly reported that the majority of that town are against the troops being re-called, and if that be the case they must be under the necessity of going out also. The Tory party, and Wallace's fleet, will have the entire government of that town, and doubtless take that opportunity to rob all the islands in the bay. They don't pretend to say he promises for only the island of Newport. It seems to be the opinion of the principal inhabitants of this town, that a regiment at least ought to be stationed there, not only for the protection of the stock, but the friends of liberty also, which they hitherto scarcely dare show their sentiments.

Wallace is much nettled at what force is there at present. His connections are supposed to be the movers of the Town Council, and those concerned in this application, as we are informed . . .