Lord George Germain received the enclosed papers from General Howe about half an hour after five. Your Majesty will see that he has been obliged to quit Boston for want of Provisions and from the position of the Enemy. He has executed his plan with great ability. Lord George has summoned the Cabinet to meet at nine o'clock this Evening, as the House of Commons is now up. Your Majesty will perceive that the General intends attacking New Yorke after he has established his army at Halifax. Lord George wishes to know the opinion of the Cabinet, to be submitted to your. Majesty, whether any alteration should be made in the Destination of the Hessians, He at present is of opinion that no Post would so essentially assist General Howe in his intended operations, as the Possessing of Rhode Island by the Guards and the Hessians. Your Majesty will be pleased to return the papers as soon as conveniently may be, and if your Majesty has any particular Commands Lord George will remain at home to receive them till he goes to the meeting.
Pall Mall. 5 minutes past 6 P.M. May 2nd 1776.
1. Fortescue, ed., Correspondence of George III, III, 355-56,