Document: Proclamation sent to the South river on an invasion of those parts from Maryland

The following Proclamation is sent to Commandant Alrigs to be by him published:

Whereas, some Englishmen of Maryland have driven the subjects of this government, in a very strange and cruel manner, from their dwellings and by burning the same, ruined those people, whereby many are doubtless stripped of all means of support, therefore have I deemed it necessary hereby to proclaim and make known that means shall be provided for feeding and supporting all such refugees, both Dutch and English, who will repair hither, with a certificate from Commandant Alrigs that they have so suffered; and in order that such cruel tyranny may be prevented in future, and the good inhabitants secured against it, 'tis necessary to institute good order, therefore are all inhabitants of the South river of New Netherland required and commanded in case any enemies be discovered, to repair forthwith to such place as Commandant Alrigs shall deem most necessary for their more effectual protection, and the greater damage of the enemy; whosoever shall contravene these or be found negligent herein shall be considered a perjurer and proceeded against as it is usual to deal with such persons.Done Fort Willem Hendrick, this 14th January, 1674.