Document: Oath of office of William LaMontagne; order of Peter Bilyou to report the arrival of vessels inside of Sandy hook

I, William Lamontagne, appointed by the Governor of New Netherland Secretary of the Towns of Swaenenburgh, Horly and Marble, promise and swear in the presence of Almighty God, that I will punctually observe the orders which shall be given me from time to time by the supreme government and the subaltern Court of justice of the aforesaid towns, that I will keep correct record and register of the minutes of said Court, and further demean myself as a faithful Clerk and Secretary is bound to do. So truly help me God Almighty.

Gentlemen.Whereas I am informed that the time of letting the excise on wine and beer to be drank in your towu is near therefore have I thought it necessary to order you to direct said excise to be collected by some trustworthy person until further orders from me, and moreover to transmit to me by the first opportunity the conditions on which the last letting was made. Vale.

The above letter was sent to the Magistrates of Swaenenburgh, &c.

Schout Peter Biljou.

This serves to direct you by order of the Governor in case you may descry any ships coming from sea inside of Sandy hook, instantly to send an express to notify his Honor thereoff who also expects your advice that the palisades contracted for the Fort are ready, for the term of 14 days is already expired. Wherewith ending I remain after greeting