[Extract]

Sr I have this day recieved Intelligence from New-London that there are Collected in the Sound near plumb Island Ten English Men of Warr and about 80 Transports And from Another quarter have further Intelligence that some hundred of the Enemies Ships and Transports had passed hell gate, their destination must at present be Uncertain Whether at New London or New-port but New Port may be the most probable, tho they may possibly pay us a small Visit at New London as they goe along. I think it is high time for the New England Colonies to be Alarmed, and amost every other Consideration to be laid Aside, to have the great Object of our defence employe our Utmost Attention & most Vigorous exertions. I have Ordered The Militia of this State On and Eastward of Connecticutt River to be on their March towards New London and Trust we shall be ready to Afford All possible Assistance wherever the Appearence of the Enemy shall make it Necessary. I have taken the Liberty to Inclose a letter containing the same Intelligence to Mr Bowdoin, President of the Councill of the Massachusetts which hope you will be so good as to forward without delay . . .