Gentlemenー

The committee of East and Southampton, taking into their serious consideration the remote situation from Head-quarters at New-York, and much exposed to the ravages of our unnatural enemy at this day with regard to our stock in our common field at the point of Montauck; it being remote from the inhabitants, where any number may land, and at pleasure, take away our stock, which is large ー (not less than two thousand neat cattle, and three or four thousand sheep) ー which, if taken away, would greatly distress us and give them support which we would by no means do.

Now, considering our situation, we request your Hon. House to petition Gen [Philip] Schuyler that a number of troops be stationed at Montauck; and that the company now raising here may be a part, until a matter of more importance shall call them away. We are of the opinion that our inhabitants would do what in them lies, to give assistance in case any attempt should be made to take off the stock; but the distance of the inhabitants is 18 or 20 miles, and as Gardiner's island lies adjacent, and is much exposed, also Shelter Island, Plumb Island and Oysterpond point, we think a number of whale boats would be proper to employ, that assistance may be given from one part to the other. We have a number of boats that are no use in this season that might be got for the design, if the General should think proper to order Troops to this part of the island, which we humbly petition may be done, &c.

I am, Gentlemen [&c.]

By order of the Committee.