Gentlemen

We have authentick Intelligence that 2 Men of War and 11 Transports sailed from Boston the Beginning of this Week; and we have the highest Reason to think that they are intended to take Cattle Sheep &c from the several Islands and very probably from yours in Order to supply the Enemy in Boston where they already suffer greatly for Want of fresh Provisions. As it is of great Consequence to prevent their being supplied I recommend to you to procure the Town to be called together immediately to consult upon the proper Measures for Defence. I have sent you by this Opportunity 2 Quarter Casks of Powder together with some Lead and Flints to enable you to defend your own Property. And in Case you think an Aid of Men necessary let me know it forthwith & you may rely upon every Thing in my Power to afford you Assistance.

By Letters from Philadelphia we are assured that General [Guy] Carleton's Endeavours to prevail upon the French and Indians to take up Arms against us have proved ineffectual; as also have the Attempts made by the Tools of the Ministry to stir up the Indians upon the Frontiers of all the Colonies. I have the Pleasure also to inform you that the Colony of Georgia hath at length heartily joined the united Colonies & have chosen 5 Delegates to sit in General Congress who are expected daily at Philadelphia. The Inhabitants of Georgia have siezed 13,000 lb of Powder imported in Capt. [Richard] Maitland from England and supposed to be designed to supply the Indians

I am [&c.]