Gentlemen

I would propose to the honourable Board the fixing upon proper Signals for alarming the Country if an Enemy Fleet should appear. Perhaps it might be proper that an Alarm should be given from Cape Ann or Marblehead and forwarded by Signals to Boston and into the Country; but as you are the best Judges of this Matter you will determine accordingly. The .. sooner this matter is determined and the method for alarming the Country fixed upon the greater will the public Safety be. I am Gentlemen [&c.] Artemas Ward [Endorsed] In Council April 11th 1776 Read & sent down Perez Morton D Secy