At a meeting of ye governor and council, held at Hartford, January 19th, 1696, protection was granted to the towns of Rye and Bedford, as members of their corporation; and on the 10th of May following, Daniel Simpkins was appointed ensign for the latter town. January 21st, 1696-7, Rye and Bedford applied to be united to Connecticut, upon which that colony concluded to receive them."

In a letter from Governor Fletcher, to the authorities of Connecticut, dated April 5th, 1697, the former-complains about the lattcr's receiving Rye and Bedford, and thus withdrawing them from the obedience of New York.''

To compel the refractory towns into obedience, Governor Fletcher issued a proclamation upon April 15th, 1697, in which he required Rye and Bedford to return to their allegiance. c

April 19th, 1697, Governor Fletcher states that Major Sellick had interfered in favor of Connecticut, with fifty armed men."*

In reply 30th of April, 1697, Connecticut disclaims the use of violent measures, and refers the whole matter to the King.

Governor Fletcher and council, in answer to Connecticut, May 10th, 1697, entitles the reasons of the latter subtcrfugees, and complains of her making a disturbance in time of war. In conclusion, Connecticut may rest assured that New York will use all lawful means to reduce the people to obedience.6

From the following document it appears that in 1696/ the action of the Council of Connecticut was favorable towards the inhabitants of Bedford in granting these requests, and that, that action was approved by the general court in May, 1697 :