Report of Committee on the Depredations of the British Troops on the Islands and Sea-Coasts

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The Committee appointed to bring in a Resolve respecting the depredations of the British Troops on the Islands and Sea-Coasts, reported as follows:

Whereas, the Troops and Forces under the command of General Gage and Admiral Graves are frequently plundering and making depredations on the Islands and Sea-Coasts of this Province, from whence they plunder or purchase Hay, Cattle, Sheep, and many other things, to the injury not only of individuals, but also to the great damage of the publick, and thus strengthen the hands of our enemies: therefore,

Resolved, That it be recommended to the several Towns and Districts on the Sea-Coasts of this Colony, and to all those persons living on the several Islands on said Coasts, that they remove their Hay, Cattle, Sheep, &c., that are exposed to those ravages, and cannot be sufficiently guarded, so far into the country as to be out of the way of those implacable enemies to this people; also, that it be recommended to the Committees of Correspondence in each Town and District, and to the Selectmen, where nor such Committee is chosen, that they take effectual care that this Resolve be immediately and strictly put into execution; and that all persons who refuse to comply with the aforegoing Resolve shall be held as incorrigible enemies to the rights and liberties of this Country.

This Report being read and amended,

Ordered, That the further consideration thereof be referred to the next Provincial Congress.