Document: Various orders in view of a threatened attack from New England

On this day the Governor-General, in company with some of his officers and principal inhabitants, paid a visit to the town of Midwout, on Long Island, whither he had invited all the Magistrates and chief officers of the Dutch towns situate on Long Island, who accordingly were there present; to whom his Honor stated that he had been now repeatedly informed that those of New England were making preparations and were already on their way to attack this Province in a hostile manner. Though his Honor could not attach any credit to the report, yet he had considered it necessary to encourage them in their plight and oath, and to recommend them with all possible expedition to thresh, and to remove to the city of New Orange, as much of their grain as they in any wise could, and commanded them not to fail, whenever he should call on them and their people, to repair on the instant to the city; meanwhile, to keep good watch by turns, sometimes to send a man or 2 on horseback to the surrounding English towns, and inform his Honor of all occurring events. All which they unanimously promised to do, thanking the Governor for his good care, promising prompt obedience to his orders.

Whereas, divers outside people have requested, for the better security of their families and goods against any attack of the enemy, that they may be permitted to remove them hither within this city, and that some houses may be appropriated for that purpose; also, that for the present some orders may be issued respecting the Long Island Ferry, to the end that their property to be sent across, maybe conveyed over with all possible expedition. Therefore have I thought proper to that end to commission and qualify Councillor Cornelis Steenwyck, Cornelis van Ruyven and Johannis van Brugh, Burgomaster of the city of New Orange, who are hereby required and authorized to inspect all houses and dwellings within this city, to ascertain what rooms therein can be hereafter conveniently vacated, and to billet therein such outside people as apply to them; likewise, to issue such orders respecting the Ferry as they shall deem necessary for the better accommodation of housekeepers.

Dated Fort Willem Hendrick, this 19th December, 1673.