There was ample reason, under the circumstances which then existed, for obstructing the execution of tlic t^ommittee's Orders -- indeed, there was greater reason for concealing the objects whicli the military force was expected to seize and "impress," under the provisions of these Orders, than there had been for tlie concealment of the Bay Colony's military stores, at Concord, when Ijieutenant-colonel Smith and Major Pitcaini were sent to seize them, and for resisting the aggression of the {committee, tliaii there had been for the punishment of the invader, in that instance, after his work had been finished, on tlie highway, between Concord and Charlestown.'

It is said that, in (Queens-county, " the people "conceal all their Arms that are of any value; many "declare they know nothing about the Congress, " nor do they care anything Ibr the Orders of the " Congress, and say th.at they would sooner lose their " lives than give up their Arms ; and that they would "blow any man's brains out, who should attempt to " take them from them. We are told," the writer continued, " that the people have been collecting " together, and parading, in sundry places, armed, " and firing their Muskets, by way of bravado. On " the whole, had we the Battalion " [Lasher's} " we " believe we should be able to collect a very cousider- " able number of good Arms and support the honour ol " Congress ; but without it, shall not -- and think that " if the Battalion is sent up, the sooner the better." -'