Braintree Sepbr. 7 1776
[Extract]
Tis said that the Efforts of our Enemies will be to stop the communication between the colonies by taking possession of Hudsons Bay [sicRiver]. Can it be effected? The Milford frigate rides triumphant in our Bay, taking vessels every day, and no Colony nor Continental vessel has yet attempted to hinder her. She mounts but 28 Guns but is one of the finest sailors in the British Navy. They complain we have not weighty mettle enough and I suppose truly. The Rage for privateering is as great here as any where and I believe the success has been as great.
1. Butterfield, ed., Adams Family Correspondence, II, 121, 123.