[Newport] Dec. 26.
This Morng Messrs Beal, Wanton & Lechmere still refusing the Oath were taken into Custody: and this Aft were sent off under Guard to Head Quarters. Gen Lee dined with Jno Collins Esq, viewed the Town and examined proper places for erecting fortifications. Lt Col. [Rufus] Putnam an Engineer from the Army was with him. The General's Presence here strikes Awe through the Tories. They are as obsequious & submissive as possible. They wait upon him & invite him to dine. Capt Andw Christie was this Afternoon detected in communicatg Intelligence to the Men o'War & was taken into Custody.
1. Diary of Ezra Stiles, YUL.