Sir

In Consequence of the New Orders published by Capt Parker of the Phoenix, Since his Arrival at N York, all Vessels coming from foreign Countries to that port, receive on the Coast, orders to Come into this province, and if possible to this place; Several are already arrived in Princes Bay, and in the Sound between this and Amboy, some of the Owners of them being apprehensive that the Men of War at New York may send their Cutters and Boats to Seize & Carry them off, have applied to me for protection ー the Saving a Vast useful property from falling into the hands of our Enemies must be Right, and although. I have no orders for it, I shall give them every protection in my power, untill I receive orders to the Contrary from the Congress. This However will most probably draw some of the Tenders and Smallest ships of War to the avenues of New Jersey on this Side. It will therefore be highly necessary to have an immediate Supply of Ammunition at this place, and if possible half a dozen Field pieces with some Round, Grape, and Canister Shot, we might then hope to make them quit any Station in Harbour, and the Season of the year will soon make them quit every other Station. This New Order of Capt Parker's in direct Violation of Act of Parliament, Alarms & Rouses the Moderate, and Sorely Vexes the Tories of New York, their being obliged to seek protection here, and in proportion as their property will be lodged among us, their pulses will beat, and their Conduct will be regulated. If this Circumstance be properly Managed, I am in hopes it will tum out a Very fortunate one.

It Just occurs to me that it may be very proper that there be an Order of Congress to Receive for the Continental Use, All the Ammunition imported in the Vessels that may Arrive in this province on paying a Moderate price for it, some small quantity may be in each, and every little helps ー This Moment the party I sent out at the request of the Committee of this County, are after a March of about fifty Miles, returned with their prisoners, whom I shall keep for the examination of the Committee, ー with the Highest Regards & esteem, I have the Honour to be [&c.]

[Endorsed] Read [in Congress] December 23, 1775