Resolved, that this State will furnish the Agent for building the Continental Ships at Newbury Port with a sufficient number of Guns provided they can be obtained by purchase, or otherways for the Continental Frigate called the Hancock, John Manley Commander, and which Ship is built to carry thirty two Guns, and will afford him evkry other assistance Possible for fitting out, and Manning said Ship, and the Honble Richard Derby Jr Esqr is appointed Agent in behalf of this Colony for the purposes aforesaid provided leave can be obtained from the Honorable Congress for said Vessel to Cruise on this Coast for the protection of the Trade thereof. The said Continental Agent engaging to reimburse all the expences this State shall incur in fitting out, and manning said Sloop [sic], and return said Guns whenever said Ship shall be otherwise employ'd It being of great Importance that there should be a sufficient Number of Armed Vessels fixed for Sea effectually to free this Coast from the Enemies Armed Vessels now Infesting of it.ー