[Extract]

Dear Sir:  [Bryan] Foskey returned from Philadelphia late last night ー there is nothing new from the Army . . .

All Vessels bringing Gun Powder, Arms, Salt Petre, Sulphur, to be permitted to load & export provisions to the value of such military Stores, the non-exportation notwithstanding. This clause to be sent to all the Islands in the West Indieslbut not to be published in the Newspapers . . .²

We shall be driven to a Sea War at last; I hope our dear little Maria Wilhelmina will be replaced and Admiral Tennant fight over his ideal battles in reality, for behold a resolution of the Continental Congress much to our purpose. "That it be recommended to each Colony to appoint a Committee of Safety to superintend & direct all matters necessary for the security & Defence of their respective Colonies in the recess of their Assemblies & Conventions ー and that each Colony at their own expence make such provision by armed vessels or otherwise as their respective Assemblies, Conventions or Committees of Safety shall judge expedient & suitable to their circumstances & situation for protection of their harbours & navigation on their Seacoasts against all unlawful Invasions, attacks & depredations from Cutters & Ships of War."³