It was suggested to the Congress that some gentlemen are of the opinion that it would be advantageous for the defence of this Colony to impede the navigation between Redhook, on Nassau island, and Bedlow's island, if the same can be done. Therefore,

Ordered, That Colo. [William] Malcom and Capt. Daniel Shaw, and such persons as they shall think proper to take to their assistance for the purpose, be and they are hereby authorized to sound the depth of the water between Red Hook, on Nassau island, and Bedlow's island, and make report of their doings to this Congress; and that they apply to the Commander-in-Chief of the Continental troops in this Colony for permission to perform the said service without interruption or molestation from the troops on board.