Preston Boston 27th April 1775
Sir
As there is great Reason to expect the Rebels will continue to prevent all kinds of Provisions being brought to Boston in order to distress not only the friends of Government, but the Kings Forces; And as we have no Resources but in the Provinces of Nova Scotia and Canada, I have written to Governor [Francis] Legge desiring his Assistance on this Exigency and I also intreat your Excellency to give Encouragement to the Exportation of live Cattle, Poultry, Roots and in general such Provisions as your Excellency well knows will be acceptable to a numerous body of People likely to be soon destitute of all Refreshments. Your Excellency will be so good to assure whoever bring provisions to this Market that they shaU be allowed to return whenever they please and neither their Vessel or People detained upon any Account. I shall with great Pleasure render your Excellency any Services in my power and desire you will be assured that I am with the greatest Regard and Respect, Sir [&c.]
Saml Graves
1. Graves's Conduct, Appendix, 412, 413, MassHS Transcript.