After our hearty commendations—Whereas information has been given that the French are making preparations by shipping and otherwise for an attempt against some parts of America, and have put on board a considerable quantity of arms for that purpose, wee have thought fitt by this express to notifie the same to you, to the end you may give the necessary orders for putting all things in the best posture of'defence that may be, within your Government, and that you assure the inhabitants thereof that such speedy assistance will be sent from home, as the state of affairs at home shall permitt, with perticular regard to the exigencys they shall lye under; and so not doubting your utmost care and vigilance herein, we bid you heartily farewell.

From the Councill Chamber at White Hall, this 20th day of April, 1696, in the 8th year of his Majesties reigne.
Your loving friends,

H. GOODRICKE,

J. BOSCAWEN,

J. SMITH,

J. BRIDGEWATER,

STAMFORD,

SCARBOROUGH,

MONTAGUE.

To our loveing friends the Governour and Magistrates of his Majesties English colony of Connecticutt, in New England, for the time being.