As not only the Levies but the main Body of the Militia of this and the neighbouring Counties are gone to New York; and as the King’s Troops are in Possession of Staten Island, & there being but a narrow River between them & our defenceless Country; and it being thought improbable that General Howe will make any Attempt on New York with his present Strength, or until all his expected Reinforcements arrive; And as there is great Reason to apprehend that he, knowing our naked & defenceless State, will in the mean time, if his Troops have no other Employment, make Incursions, at least, into, & ravage our Country So near & exposed; We cannot behold our alarming Situation without anticipating the most cruel Distress. Our Country destitute of Inhabitants, Our Wives & Children unprotected either from the Enemy without or the Tories & Negroes in the midst of us—In this dangerous Predicament We have no other Source for Relief but by humble application to Your Excellency; firmly relying on Your Excellency’s Wisdom & Humanity, We don’t doubt You will order the most speedy & suitable Provision for the Safety of our Country & quieting the Distresses of our Women & Children.

If it be really necessary that We shou’d fall a Sacrifice to the Benefit of the Common Cause; We will endeavour to support our Misfortunes without repining; But We hope that the Arrival of Troops from Connecticut will render it unnecessary, & make the longer Attendance of the main Body of our Militia at New York dispensible—We are with the most respectful Submission—Your Excellency’s most Obedt Sert