As his Exceliency Genl Howe is determined to leave the Town with the Troops under his Command, a Number of the respectable Inhabitants being very anxious for its Preservation & Safety, have applied to Genl [James] Robertson for this Purpo~se, who at their Request has communicated the same to his Excellency, Genl Howe, who has assured him that he has no Intention of destroying the Town, unless the Troops under his Command are molested during their Embarkation, or at there Departure by the armed Force without, which Declaration he gave Genl Robertson Leave to communicate to the Inhabitants. If such an opposition should take Place, we have the greatest Reason to expect the Town will be exposed to entire Destruction. As our Fears are quieted with Regard to Genl How's Intentions, we beg we may have some Assurances that so dreadful a Calamity may not be brought on by any Measures without. As a Testimony of the Truth of the above, we have signed our Names to this Paper carried out by Messrs Thomas & Jonathan Amory & Peter Johannet, who have at the earnest Intreaties of the Inhabitants through the Lieutt Governor sollicited a Flag of Truce for this Purpose2
Boston March 8th 1776.
1. John Hancock Papers, III, LC.
2. See Washington's letter of March 9, 1776 for handling of the letter.
