The entertaining history of King Philip's War, which began in the month of June, 1675. As also of expeditions more lately made against the common enemy, and Indian rebels, in the eastern parts of New-England: with some account of the Divine Providence towards Col. Benjamin Church: / By Thomas Church, Esq. his son.

A further account of the actions in the more late wars against the common enemy and Indian rebels, in the eastern parts, under the command of the afore|said Captain BENJAMIN CHURCH.

IN the time of Sir Edmund Andross's government be|gan that bloody war in the eastern parts of New|England; so that, immediately Sir Edmund sent an express for Capt. Church; who, then being at Little|Compton, received it on a Lord's Day, in the afternoon meeting; going home after meeting, took his horse and set out for Boston, as ordered; and by sunrise next morn|ing got to Braintree, where he met with Col. Page on horse|back, going to Weymouth and Hingham to raise forces to go East; who said he was glad to see him, and that his Excellency would be as glad to see him in Boston so early: So parting he soon got to Boston, and waited upon his Excellency; who informed him of an unhappy war broke out in the eastern parts; and said, he was going himself in person, and that he wanted his company with him: But Captain Church not finding himself in the same spirit he used to have, said, he hoped his Excellency would give him time to consider of it. He told him he might; and also said that he must come and dine with him. Captain Church having many acquaintance in Bos|ton, who made it their business some to encourage, and others to discourage him from going with his Excellency: So after dinner his Excellency took him into his room and discoursed freely; saying, that he having knowledge of his former actions and successes; and that he must go

with him, and be his second, with other encouragements. But in short, the said Captain Church did not accept, so was dismissed and went home.

Soon after this was the revolution, and the other go|vernment re-assumed; and then Governor Bradstreet sent for Captain Church to come to Boston as soon as his bu|siness would permit; whereupon he went to Boston, & waited upon his Honor; who told him he was requested by the Council to send for him, to see if he could be prevailed with to raise volunteers, both English and Indians, to go East; for the eastward Indians had done great spoil upon the English in those parts; giving him an account of the miseries and sufferings of the people there. Capt. Church's spirits being affected, said, if he could do any service for his Honor, the country, and their relief, he was ready and willing. He was asked how he would act? He said, He would take with him as many of his old soldiers as he could get, both English and Indians, &c. The Gentle|men of Boston requested him to go to Rhode-Island go|vernment to ask their assistance: So giving him their letter, and about forty shillings in money, he took leave, and went home to Bristol on a Saturday, and the next Monday morning he went over to Rhode-Island, and wait|ed upon their Governor, delivering the letter as ordered; prayed his Honor for a speedy answer: Who said, they could not give an answer presently; so he waited on them till he had their answer; and when he had obtained it, he carried it to the Boston Gentlemen; who desired him to raise what volunteers he could in Plymouth colony, and Rhode-Island government, and what was wanting they would make up out of their's that was already out in the eastern parts. The summer being far spent, Capt. Church made what despatch he could, and raised about 250 men volunteers, and received his commission from Governor Hinkley, which is as followeth, viz.

The Council of war of their Majesties colony of New-Ply|mouth, in New-England:

To Major Benjamin Church, Commander in Chief.

WHEREAS the Kennebeck and eastern Indians with their confederates, have openly made war upon their Majesties subjects of the provinces of Maine, New-Hampshire, and of the Massachusetts colony, hav|ing committed many barbarous murders, spoils and ra|pines upon their persons and estates: And whereas there are some forces of soldiers, English and Indians, now raised and detached out of the several regiments and places within this colony of New-Plymouth, to go forth to the assistance of our neighbours and friends, of the aforesaid provinces and colony of the Massachu|setts, subjects of one and the same crown; and to join with their forces for the repelling and destruction of the common enemy: And whereas you, Benjamin Church, are appointed to be Major and Commander in Chief of all the forces, English and Indians, detached within this colony, for the service of their Majesties aforesaid: THESE are in their Majesties name to authorize and require you to take into your care and conduct all the said forces, English and Indians, and diligently to attend that service, by leading and exercising of your inferior Officers and soldiers, commanding them to obey you as their chief commander; and to pursue, fight, take, kill, or destroy the said enemies, their aiders and abet|tors, by all the ways and means you can, as you shall have opportunity. And you are to observe and obey all such orders and instructions as from time to time you shall receive from the Commissioners of the colonies, the Council of war of this colony, or the Governor and Council of the Massachusett's colony. In testimony whereof the public seal of the said colony of New-Ply|mouth is hereunto affixed.

Dated in Plymouth, the sixth

day of September, Anno Dom. 1689. Annoque regni Re|gis et Regina Willielmi et Mariae Angliae &c. Primo.

THOMAS HINKLEY, President.

And now marching them all down to Boston, then re|ceived his further orders and instructions, which are as followeth:

Boston, September 16th, 1689.

To all Sheriffs, Marshals, Constables, and other Officers military and civil, in their Majesties province of Maine.

WHEREAS, pursuant to an agreement of the Commissioners of the United Colonies, Major Benjamin Church is commissionated Commander in Chief over that part of their Majesties forces (levied for the present expedition against the common enemy) whose head-quarters are appointed to be at Falmouth, in Casco-Bay: In their Majesties names, you, and eve|ry of you are required to be aiding and assisting to the said Major Church in his pursuit of the enemy, as any emergency shall require; and so impress boats, or other vessels, carts, carriages, horses, oxen, provision and ammunition, and men for guides, &c. as you shall receive warrants from the said chief commander, or his Lieutenant so to do: You may not fail to do the same speedily and effectually, as you will answer your neglect and contempt of their Majesties authority and service at your uttermost peril. Given under my hand and seal the day and year above written. Annoque Regni Regis et Regina Willielmi & Mariae Primo.

By Thomas Danforth, President of the province of Maine.

By the Governor and Council of the Massachusetts Colony:

To Major Benjamin Church.

WHEREAS you are appointed and commissioned by the Council of War, of the colony of New|Plymouth,

Commander in Chief of the forces raised within the said colony, against the common Indian ene|my, now ordered into the eastern parts, to join with some of the forces of this colony; for the prosecution, repel|ling and subduing of the said enemy: It is therefore ordered that Captain Simon Willard, and Captain Na|thaniel Hall, with the two companies of soldiers under their several command, belonging to this colony, now in or about Casco-Bay, be, and are hereby put under you, as their Commander in Chief for this present ex|petition. And in pursuance of the commissions seve|rally given to either of them, they are ordered to ob|serve and obey your orders and directions as their Com|mander in Chief until further order from the Governor and Council, or the Commissioners of the colonies. Dated in Boston the 17th day of September, Anno Dom. 1689. Annoque Regni Regis et Reginae Guilielmi et Mariae, Anglia, &c. Primo.

S. BRADSTREET, Gov. Past in Council, Attest. Isaac Addington, Secr.

By the Commissioners of the colonies of the Massachusetts, Plymouth and Connecticut, for managing the present war against the common enemy.

INSTRUCTIONS for Major Benjamin Church, Com|mander in Chief of the Plymouth forces, with others of the Massachusetts, put under his command.

IN pursuance of the commission given you, for their Majesties service in the present expedition against the common Indian enemy, their aiders and abettors; reposing confidence in your wisdom, prudence and fide|lity in the trust committed to you, for the honor of God, good of his people, and the security of the interest

of Christ in his churches, expecting and praying that in your dependance upon him, you may be helped and as|sisted with all that grace and wisdom which is requisite for carrying you on with success in this difficult service; and tho' much is and must be left to your discretion, as Providence and opportunity may present from time to time in places of attendance: Yet the following instruc|tions are commended unto your observation, & to be at|tended to so far as the state of matters with you in such a transaction will admit. You are with all possible speed to take care that the Plymouth forces, both English and Indians, under your command, be fixed and ready, and the first opportunity of wind and weather, to go on board such vessels as are provided to transport you and them to Casco, where, if it shall please God you arrive, you are to take under your care and command the com|panies of Captain Nathaniel Hall, and Capt. Simon Wil|lard, who are ordered to attend your command, whom, together with the Plymouth forces, and such as from time to time may be added unto you, you are to im|prove in such way as you shall see meet, for the dis|covering, pursuing, subduing and destroying the said common enemy, by all opportunities you are capable of; always intending the preserving of any of the near towns from incursions, and destruction of the enemy, yet chiefly improving your men for the finding and fol|lowing the laid enemy abroad, and if possible to find out and attack their head quarters and principal ren|dezvouz, if you find you are in a rational capacity of so doing. The better to enable you thereto, we have ordered two men of war sloops, and other small vessels for transportation to attend you, for some considerable time. You are to see that your soldiers arms be always fixed, and that they be furnished with ammunition, pro|visions and other necessaries, that so they may be in a readiness to repel and attack the enemy. In your pur|suit

you are to take special care to avoid danger by am|bushments, or being drawn under any disadvantage by the enemy in your marches, keeping out scouts & a for|lorn hope before your main body, & by all possible means endeavouring to surprise some of the enemy, that so you may gain intelligence. You are to suppress all muti|nies and disorders among your soldiers, as much as in you lies, and to punish such as disobey your officers, ac|cording to the rules of war herewith given you.

You are, according to your opportunity, or any occa|sion more than ordinary occurring, to hold correspon|dence with Major Swaine, and to yield mutual assistance when and as you are capable of it, and you may have reason to judge it will be of most public service; and it will be meet you and he should agree of some signal whereby your Indians may be known from the enemy. You are to encourage your soldiers to be industrious, vi|gorous, and venturous in their service, to search out and destroy the enemy, acquainting them, it is agreed by the several colonies, that they shall have the benefit of the captives, and all lawful plunder, and the reward of Eight Pounds per head, for every fighting Indian man flain by them, over and above their stated wages; the same being made appear to the Commander in Chief, or such as shall be appointed to take care therein. If your Commission officers, or any of them should be flain, or otherwise uncapable of service, and for such reason dismissed, you are to appoint others in their room, who shall have the like wages, and a commission sent upon notice given, you to give them commissions in the mean time. You are to take effectual care that the wor|ship of God be kept up in the army, morning and even|ing prayer attended as far as may be, and as the emer|gencies of your affairs will admit, to see that the holy sabbath be duly fanctisied. You are to take care as much as may be, to prevent or punish drunkenness,

swearing, cursing, or such other sins, as do provoke the anger of God. You are to advise with your chief of|ficers in any matters of moment, as you shall have op|portunity. You are from time to time to give intelli|gence and advice to the Governor and Council of the Massachusetts, or Commissioners of the colonies, of your proceedings and occurrences that may happen, and how it shall please the Lord to deal with you in this present expedition.

If you find the vessels are not likely to be serviceable to you, dismiss them as soon as you may.

Captain Silvanus Davis is a prudent man, and well acquainted with the affairs of those parts, and is writ unto to advise and inform you all he can.

Such further instructions as we shall see reason to send unto you, you are carefully to attend and observe, and in the absence of the Commissioners, you shall ob|serve the orders and instructions directed unto you from the Governor and Council of the Massachusetts.

Given under our hands in Boston, Sept. 18, 1689.

Tho. Hinky, Thomas Danforth, President, John Walley, Elisha Cooke, Samuel Mason, William Pitkin.

The First EXPEDITION East.

BEING ready, Major Church embarked with his forces on board the vessels provided to transport them for Casco, having a brave gale at S. W. and on Friday about 3 o'clock, they got in fight of Casco har|bour; and discovering two or three small ships there, not knowing whether they were friends or enemies; whereupon the said Commander, Major Church, gave or|ders that every man that was able should make ready, and all lie close, giving orders how they should act in case they

were enemies. He going in the Mary sloop, together with the Resolution, went in first, being both well fitted with guns and men; coming to the first hailed them, who said they were friends, presently mann'd their boat, brought to, and so came along the side of them; who gave the said Church an account, that yesterday there was a very great army of Indians and French with them upon the island, at the going out of the harbour, and that they were come on purpose to take Casco fort and town; likewise in|form'd him that they had got a captive woman aboard (Major Walden's daughter of Piscataqua) that could give him a full account of their number and intentions: He bid them give his service to their Captain, and tell him, he would wait upon him after he had been on shore and given some orders and directions. Being come pretty near he ordered all the men still to keep close, giving an ac|count of the news he had received, and then went ashore, where were several of the chief men of the town who met him, being glad that he came so happily to their relief; told him the news Mrs. Lee had given them, being the woman aforesaid. He going to Captain Davis's to get some refreshment, having not eat a morsel since he came by Boston castle; and now having inquired into the state of the town, found them in a poor condition to de|fend themselves against such a number of enemies: He gave them an account of his orders and instructions, and told them what forces he had brought, and that when it was dark they should all land, and not before, left the enemy should discover them. And then he went on board the privateer, who were Dutchmen; but as he went call'd aboard every vessel, and ordered the Officers to take care that their men might be all fitted and provided to fight, for the people of the town expected the enemy to fall upon them every minute, but withal charging them to keep undiscovered; and coming on board said privateer was kindly treated, discoursed Mrs. Lee, who informed

him that the company she came with had fourscore ca|noes, and that there were more of them whom she had not seen, which came from other places, and that they told her when they came all together, should make up 700 men. He asked her whether Casteen was with them? She answered, that there were several French men with them, but did not know whether Casteen was there or not. He then having got what intelligence she could give him, went ashore and viewed the fort and town, discoursing with the Gentlemen there according to his instructions; and when it began to grow dark, he ordered the vessels to come as near the fort as might be, and land the soldiers with as little noise as possible; ordering them as they landed to go into the fort and houses that stood near, that so they might be ready upon occasion; having ordered provisions for them, went to every company and ordering them to get every thing ready; they that had no powder|horns or shot-bags, should immediately make them; or|dering the officers to take special care that they were rea|dy to march into the woods an hour before day: And also directing the watch to call him two hours before day; so he hastened to bed to get some rest.

At the time prefixed he was called, and presently or|dering the companies to make ready, and about half an hour before day they moved. Several of the town people went with them into a thick place of brush, about half a mile from the town; now ordering them to sent out their scouts, as they used to do, and seeing them all settled at their work, he went into town by sunrise again, and desired the inhabitants to take care of themselves, till his men had fitted themselves with some necessaries: For his Indians most of them wanted both bags and horns; so he ordered them to make bags like wallets, to put pow|der in one end, and shot in the other. So most of them were ready for action, (viz:) the Seconet Indians, but the Cape Indians were very bare, lying so long at Boston

before they embarked, that they had sold every thing they could make a penny of; some tying shot and powder in the corners of their blankets. He being in town, just going to breakfast, there was an alarm, so he ordered all the soldiers in town to move away as fast as they could, where the firing was; and he, with what men more were with with him of his soldiers, moved immediately, and meeting with Captain Bracket's sons, who told him their father was taken, and that they saw a great army of In|dians in their father's orchard, &c. By this time our Indians that wanted bags and horns were fitted, but want|ed more ammunition. Presently came a messenger to him from the town and inform'd him, that they had knock'd out the heads of several casks of bullets, and they were all too big, being musket bullets, and would not fit their guns, and that if he did not go back himself a great part of the army would be kept back from service for want of suitable bullets.

He run back and ordered every vessel to send ashore all their casks of bullets; being brought knock'd out their heads, and turn'd them all out upon the green by the fort, and set all the people in the town, that were able, to make flugs; being most of them too large for their use, which had like to have been the overthrow of their whole army: He finding some small bullets, and what slugs were made, and three snapsacks of powder, went imme|diately to the army, who were very hotly engaged; but coming to the river the tide was up; he call'd to his men that were engaged, encouraging them, and told them he had brought more ammunition for them. An Indian call'd Captain Lightfoot, laid down his gun, and came over the river, taking the powder upon his head, and a kettle of bullets in each hand, and got safe to his fellow soldiers. He perceiving great firing upon that side he was of, went to see who they were, and found them to be two of Major Church's companies, one of English and the other

of Indians, being in all about fourscore men, that had not got over the river, but lay firing over our men's heads at the enemy; he presently order'd them to rally, and come all together; and gave the word for a Casco man: So one Swarton, a Jersey man, appearing, who he could hardly understand; he ask'd him how far it was to the head of the river, or whether there was any place to get over? He said there was a bridge about three quarters of a mile up, where they might get over: So he calling to his soldiers engaged on the other side, that he would soon be with them over the bridge, and come upon the backs of the enemy; which put new courage into them; so they immediately moved up towards the bridge, marching ve|ry thin, being willing to make what shew they could, shouting as they marched: They saw the enemy running from the river-side, where they had made stands with wood to prevent any body from coming over the river; and coming to the bridge, they saw on the other side that the enemy had laid logs and stuck birch brush along to hide themselves from our view.

He ordered the company to come altogether, bidding them all to run after him, who would go first, and that as soon as they got over the bridge to scatter, that so they might not be all shot down together, expecting the ene|my to be at their stands; so running up to the stands, found none there, but were just gone, the ground being much tumbled with them behind the said stands. He or|dered the Captain with his company of English to march down to our men engaged, and that they should keep along upon the edge of the marsh, and himself with his Indian soldiers would march down through the brush: And coming to a parcel of low ground, which had been formerly burnt, the old brush being fallen down lay very thick, and the young brush being grown up made it bad travelling; but coming near the back of the enemy, one of his men called unto him, their commander, and said,

that the enemy run westward to get between us and the bridge, and he looking that way saw men running, and making a small stop, heard no firing, but a great choping with hatchets; so concluding the fight was over, made the best of their way to the bridge again, left the enemy should get over the bridge into the town. The men be|ing most of them out (our ammunition lay exposed) com|ing to the bridge where he left six Indians for an ambus|cade on the other side of the river, that if any enemy of|fered to come over, they should fire at them, which would give him notice, so would come to their assistance; (but in the way having heard no firing nor shouting, concluded the enemy were drawn off) he asked the ambuscade, whe|ther they saw any Indians? They said yes, abundance. He asked them where? They answered, that they ran over the head of the river by the cedar swamp, and were running into the neck towards the town.

There being but one Englishman with him, he bid his Indian soldiers scatter, run very thin to preserve them|selves, and be the better able to make a discovery of the ene|my; and soon coming to Lieutenant Clark's field, on the south side of the neck, and seeing the cattle feeding quiet|ly, and perceiving no track, concluded the ambuscade had told them a falshood; they hastily returned back to the said bridge, perceiving there was no noise of the ene|my. He hearing several great guns fire at the town, con|cluded that they were either assaulted, or that they had discovered the enemy: He having ordered that in case such should be, that they should fire some of their great guns to give him notice; he being a stranger to the coun|try, concluded the enemy had by some other way got to the town; whereupon he sent his men to the town, and himself going to the river, near where the fight had been, asked them how they did, and what was become of the enemy? Who informed him that the enemy drew off in less than an hour after he left them, and had not fired a

gun at them since. He told them he had been within little more than a gun shot of the back of the enemy, and had been upon them had it not been for thick brushy ground, &c. Now some of his men returning from the town gave him the account, that they went while they saw the co|lours standing and men walking about as not molested. He presently ordered that all his army should pursue the enemy; but they told him that most of them had spent their ammunition, and that if the enemy had engaged them a little longer they might have come and knock'd them on the head; and that some of their Bullets were so unsizable that some of them were forced to make slugs while they were engaged. He then ordered them to get over all the wounded and dead men, and to leave none behind; which was done by some canoes they had got. Captain Hall and his men being first engaged did great service, and suffered the greatest loss in his men; but Captain Southworth with his company, and Capt. Num|posh with the Seconet Indians, and the most of the men be|longing to the town all coming suddenly to his relief, pre|vented him & his whole company from being cut off, &c.

By this time the day was far spent, and marching into town about sunset, carrying in all their wounded and dead men, being all sensible of God's goodness to them, in giving them the victory, & causing the enemy to fly with shame, who never gave one shout at their drawing off. The poor inhabitants wonderfully rejoiced that the Almighty had favoured them so much; saying, That if Maj. Church, with his forces, had not come at that juncture, they had been all cut off; and said further, That it was the first time that ever the eastward Indians had been put to flight, and the said Church with his volunteers were wonderfully preserved, having never a man killed outright, and but one Indian mortally wounded, who died, several more being badly wounded, but recovered.

After this engagement Maj. Church, with his forces, ranging all the country thereabout, in pursuit of the ene|my; and visiting all the garrisons at Black-Point, Spur|wink, and Blue-Point, and went up Kennebeck river, but to little effect. And now winter drawing near, he received orders from the government of the Massachusetts-Bay, to settle all the garrisons, and put in suitable officers accord|ing to his best discretion, and to send home all his soldiers, volunteers and transports; which orders he presently o|beyed. Being obliged to buy him a horse to go home by land, that so he might the better comply with his orders. The poor people, the inhabitants of Casco, and places ad|jacent, when they saw he was going away from them, la|mented sadly, and begged earnestly that he would suffer them to come away in the transports; saying, that if he left them there, that in the spring of the year the enemy would come and destroy them and their families, &c. So by their earnest request the said Maj. Church promised them, that if the governments that had now sent him, would send him the next spring, he would certainly come with his volunteers and Indians to their relief: And that as soon as he had been at home, and taken a little care of his own business, he would certainly wait upon the gentle|men of Boston, and inform them of the promise he had made to them; and if they did not see cause to send them relief, to entreat their honors seasonably to draw them off, that they might not be a prey to the barbarous enemy.

Taking his leave of those poor inhabitants, some of the chief men there waited upon him to Black-Point, to Capt. Scottaway's garrison; coming there, they prevailed with the said Capt. Scottaway to go with him to Boston, which he readily comply'd with, provided the said Church would put another in to command the garrison; which being done, and taking their leave one of another, they set out and travelled through all the country, home to Boston; (having employ'd himself to the utmost to fulfil his in|structions

last received from Boston gentlemen, which cost him about a month's service over and above what he had pay for from the Plymouth gentlemen:) And in his travel homeward several gentlemen waited upon the said Major Church, who was obliged to bear their expences. When he came to Boston gentlemen, he informed them of the miseries those poor people were in by having their provi|sions taken from them by order of the President, &c. Then went home; staid not long there before he returned to Boston, where Capt. Scottaway waited for his coming, that he might have the determination of the government of Boston to carry home with him; and it being the time of the Small-Pox there, (and Maj. Church not having had it) taking up his lodging near the Court-House, took the first opportunity to inform those gentlemen of the Court his business; who said they were very busy in sending home Sir Edmund, the ship being ready to fail. The said Major Church still waiting upon them, and at every opportunity entreating those gentlemen in behalf of the poor people of Casco, informing the necessity of taking care of them, ei|ther by sending them relief early in the spring, or suffer them to draw off, otherwise they would certainly be de|stroyed, &c. Their answer was, They could do nothing till Sir Edmund was gone. Waiting there three weeks up|on great expences, he concluded to draw up some of the circumstances of Casco, and places adjacent, and to leave it upon the Council Board, before the Governor & Coun|cil; having got it done, obtained liberty to go up where the Governor and Council were sitting, he inform'd their honors, that he had waited till his patience was wore out, so had drawn up the matter to leave upon the Board be|fore them: Which is as follows:

To the honored Governor and Council of the Massachusetts.

Gentlemen,

WHEREAS by virtue of yours, with Plymouth's desires and commands, I went eastward in the last

expedition against the common Indian enemy, where Provi|dence so ordered that we attacked their greatest body of forces, coming then for the destruction of Falmouth, which we know marched off repulsed with considerable damage, leaving the ground, and never since seen there, or in any place adjacent: The time of the year being then too late to prose|cute any further design, and other accidents falling contrary to my expectation, impeding the desired success. Upon my then removal from the province of Maine, the inhabitants were very solicitous that this enemy might be further prose|cuted, willing to venture their lives and fortunes in the said enterprise, wherein they might serve God, their King and country, and enjoy quiet and peaceable habitations; upon which I promised to signify the same to yourselves, and wil|ling to venture that little which Providence hath betrusted me with, on the said account. The season of the year being such if some speedy action be not performed in attacking them, they will certainly be upon us in our out towns (God knows where) and the inhabitants there not being able to defend themselves, without doubt many souls may be out off, as our last year's experience wofully hath declared: The inhabitants there trust to your protection, having undertaken govern|ment and your propriety; if nothing be performed on the said account, the best way (under correction) is to demolish the garrison, and draw off the inhabitants, that they may not be left to a merciless enemy; and that the arms and ammu|nition may not be there for the strengthening of the enemy; who without doubt have need enough, having exhausted their greatest store in this winter season. I have periormed my promise to them, and acquitted myself in specifying the same to yourselves: Not that I desire to be in any action (although willing to serve my King and country) and may pass under the censure of scandalous tongues in the last expedition, which I hope they will amend on the first opportunity of service. I leave to mature consideration, the loss of trade and fishery; the war brought to the doors; what a triumph it will be

to the enemy, derision to our neighbours, besides dishonor to God and our nation, and grounds of frowns from our Prince, the frustration of those whose eyes are upon you for help, who might have otherwise applied themselves to their King. Gentlemen, this I thought humbly to propose unto you, that I might discharge myself in my trust from yourselves, and Promise to the inhabitants of the province, but especially my duty to God, her Majesty, and my nation, praying for your Honors prosperity, subscribe,

Your servant, Benj. Church.

A true copy given in at Boston, this 6th of February, 1689, at the Council Board.

Attest. T. S.

Major Church said moreover that in thus doing he had complied with his promise to those poor people of Casco, and should be quit from the guilt of their blood. The Governor was pleased to thank him for his care and pains taken; then taking his leave of them went home, and left Captain Scottaway in a very sorrowful condition, who re|turned home some time after with only a copy of what was left on the board by the said Church. Maj. Church not|hearing any thing till May-following, and then was in|formed, that those poor people of Casco were cut off by the barbarous enemy: And that altho' they made their terms with Monsieur Casteen, who was commander of tose enemies, yet he suffered those merciless savages to massacre and destroy the most of them. To conclude this first expedition East; I shall just give you a hint how Major Church was treated (altho' he was Commander in Chif of all the forces out of Plymouth and Boston govern|ment) after he came home, for Plymouth Gentlemen paid him but Forty-two pounds; telling him, he must go to Boston Gentlemen for the rest, who were his employers as well as they. Of whom he never had one penny for

all travel and expences in raising volunteers, and services done; except Forty shillings or thereabout, for going from Boston to Rhode-Island on their business, and back to Boston again: Also for sending a man to Providence for Captain Edmunds (who raised a company in those parts) and went East with them.

The 2d EXPEDITION East.

IN the year 1690 was the expedition to Canada, and Major Walley often requested Major Church that if he would not go himself in that expedition, that he would not hinder others: He answered the said Walley, That he should hinder none but his old soldiers, that used to go along with him, &c. And the said Church going down to Charlestown, to take his leave of some or his relations, and friends, who were going into that expedition, promised his wife and family not to go into Boston, the small-pox being very rife there. Coming to Charl••••••••on, several of his friends in Boston came over to see him; and the next day after the said Church came there, Major Walley came to him, and informed him, that the Governor and Council wanted to speak with him: He answered him, That he had promised his wife and family not to go into Boston; saying, if they had any business, they could write to him, and that he would send them his answer. Soon after came over two other Gentlemen with a message, that the Governor and Council wanted to have some discourse with him: The answer returned was, that he intended to lodg•• that night at the Gray-bound, in Roxbury, and that in the morning would come to Pollard's at the south end of Boston; which accordingly he did: Soon after he

came thither received a letter from the honorable Captain Sewall, to request him to come to the Council; the an|swer he returned by the bearer was, That he thought there was no need of his hazarding himself so much as to come and speak with them; not that he was afraid of his life, but because he had no mind to be concerned, and further by reason they would not hearken to him about the poor people of Casco. But immediately came Mr. Maxfield to him, saying, That the Council bid him tell the said Church, That if he would take his horse and ride along the middle of the street, there might be no danger, they were then sitting in Council: He bid them go and tell his masters, not to trouble themselves, whether he came upon his head of feet, he was coming: However, thinking the return was something rude, called him back to drink a glass of wine, and then he would go with him. So coming to the Council, they were very thankful to him for his coming; and told him that the occasion of their sending for him was, That there was a captive come in who gave them an ac|count, that the Indians were come down, and had taken possession of the stone fort at Pejepscot, so that they want|ed his advice and thoughts about the matter; whether they would tarry and keep in the fort or not? And whe|ther it was not expedient to send some forces to do some spoil upon them; and further to know whether he could not be prevailed with to raise some volunteers and go, to do some spoil upon them? He answered them, he was unwilling to be concerned any more; it being very diffi|cult and chargeable to raise volunteers, as he found by experience in the last expedition. But they using many arguments prevailed so far with him, that if the Govern|ment of Plymouth saw cause to send him (he would go) thinking the expedition would be short; took his leave of them and went home. And in a short time after there came an express from Governor Hinkley, to request Ma|jor Church to come to Barnstable to him: He having re|ceived

a letter from the government of Boston to raise some forces to go East: whereupon the said Major Church went the next day to Barnstable, as ordered; finding the Go|vernor and some of the Council of War there, discoursed him, concluding that he should take his Indian soldiers, and two English Captains, with what volunteers could be raised; and that one Captain should go out of Ply|mouth and Barnstable county, and the other out of Bristol county, with what forces he could raise, concluding to have but few officers, to save charge. The said Church was at great charge and expence in raising of forces. Go|vernor Hinkley promised that he would take care to pro|vide vessels to transport the said army with ammunition and provisions, by the time prefixed by himself, for the government of Boston had obliged themselves by their let|ter, to provide any thing that was wanting; so at the time prefixed Major Church merched down all his soldiers out of Bristol county to Plymouth, as ordered; and being come, found it not us he expected, for there were neither provi|sions, ammunition nor transports; so he immediately sent an express to the Governor who was at Barnstable, to give him an account that he with the men were come to Ply|mouth, and found nothing ready; in his return to the said Church, gave him an account of his disappointments; and sent John Lathrop of Barnstable in a vessel with some ammunition and provision on board, to him at Plymouth; also sent him word that there was more on board of Sa|muel Alling of Barnstable, who was to go for a transport, and that he himself would be at Plymouth next day; but Alling never came near him, but went to Billings-gate, at Cape-cod, as he was informed. The Governor being come, said to Major Church that he must take some of the open sloops, and make spar decks to them, and lay plat|forms for the soldiers to lie upon; which delays were very expensive to the said Church; his soldiers being all volun|teers, daily expected to be treated by him, and the Indians

always begging for money to get drink; but he using his utmost diligence, made what despatch he could to be gone, being ready to embark, received his commission and instructions from Governor Hinkley, which are as fol|loweth, viz.

The Council of War of their Majesties colony of New-Ply|mouth, in New-England:

To Major Benjamin Church, Commander in Chief, &c.

WHEREAS the Kenebeck and Eastward Indians, with the French their confederates, have openly made war upon their Majesties subjects of the provinces of Maine, New-Hampshire, and of the Massachusetts colony having committed many barbarous murders, spoils and rapines upon their persons and estates And whereas there are some forces of soldiers, English and Indians, now raised and detached out of the several regiments and places within this colony of New|Plymouth, to go forth to the assistance of our neighbours and friends of the aforesaid provinces and colony of the Massachu|setts, subjects of one and the same crown. And whereas you, Benjamin Church, are appointed to be Major and Comman|der in Chief of all the forces, English and Indians, detached within this colony, together with such other of their Majes|ties subjects as elsewhere shall list themselves, or shall be or|derly put under your command for the service of their Majes|ties, as aforesaid. These are in their Majesties name to au|thorize and require you to take into your care and conduct all the said forces, English and Indians, and diligently to intend that service, by leading and exercising your inferior officers and soldiers, commanding them to obey you as their chief Commander. And to pursue, fight, take, kill or destroy the said enemies, their aiders and abettors by all the ways and means you can, as you shall have opportunity, and to accept to mercy, or grant quarter and favour to such, or so many of said enemies as you shall find needful for promoting the design aforesaid. And you are to observe and they all such orders and

instructions, as from time to time you shall receive from the Commissioners of the colonies, or the Council of War of the said colony of New-Plymouth, or from the Governor and Council of the Massachusetts. In testimony whereof is affix|ed the public seal of this colony. Dated in Plymouth the second day of September, Anno Dom. 1690. Annoque reg|ni Regis et Reginae Willielmi et Mariae &c. Secundo.

THO. HINKLEY, President.

INSTRUCTIONS for Major Benjamin Church, Com|mander in Chief of the Plymouth forces, with other of the Massachusetts put under his command.

IN pursuance of the commission given you for their Majesties service, in the present expedition against the common enemy, Indian and French, their aiders and abettors, on the request of our brethren and friends of the Massachusetts colony, subjects of one and the same crown of England; for our assistance of them therein: Reposing confidence in your wisdom, prudence, pro••ess and faithfulness in the trust under God committed to you for the honor of his name, the interest of Christ in these churches, and the good of the whole people; pray|ing and expecting that in your dependance on him, you may be helped and assisted with all that grace, wisdom and courage necessary for the carrying of you on with success in this difficult service; and though much is and must be left to your discretion, with your Council of Officers, as Providence and opportunity may present from time to time in places of action: Yet the follow|ing instructions are commended to you to be observed and attended to by you, so far as the state and circum|stances of that affair will admit.

You are with all possible speed to take care that the Plymouth forces, both English and Indians, under your command, be fixed and ready on the first opportunity

of wind and weather, to go on board such vessels, as are provided to transport you to Piscataqua; and there to take under your care and command such companies of the Massachusetts colony, as shall by them be order|ed and added to you there, or elsewhere from time to time; all which you are to improve in such way, and from place to place, as with the advice of your Council, consisting of the Commission Officers of the Massachu|setts colony, and Plymouth, under your conduct, shall seem meet, for the finding out, pursuing, taking or de|stroying of said common enemy, on all opportunities, according to commission, and such further orders and instructions as you have or may receive from the Gover|nor and Council of the Massachusetts, the Commissioners for the united colonies, or the Governor and Council of Plymouth; so far as you may be capable, intending what you can the preserving of the near towns from the in|cursions and destructions of the enemy; but chiefly to intend the finding out, pursuing, taking and destroy|ing the enemy abroad, and if possible to attack them in their head quarters and principal rendezvous, if you are in a rational capacity of so doing; and for the better enabling you thereunto, we have appointed the vessels that transport you, and the provisions, &c. to attend your motion and order, until you shall see cause to dis|miss them, or any one of them, which is desired to be done the first opportunity that the service will admit. You are to see that your soldiers arms be always fixed, and they provided with ammunition, and other neces|saries, that they may be always ready to repel and at|tack the enemy. You are to take special care to avoid danger in the pursuit of the enemy by keeping out scouts, and a forlorn, to prevent the ambushments of the ene|my on your main body in their marches. And by all possible means to surprise some of the enemy, that so you may gain better intelligence.

You are to take effectual care that the worship of God be kept up in the army, that morning and evening prayer be attended, and the holy sabbath duly sanctifi|ed, as the emergency of your affairs will admit.

You are to take strict care to prevent or punish drunkenness, cursing, swearing, and all other vices, left the anger of God be thereby provoked to fight against you. You are, from time to time, to give intelligence and advice to the Governor of the Massachusetts, and to us, of your proceedings and occurrences that may at|tend you. And in case of a failure of any commis|sion officers, you are to appoint others in their stead.—And when, with the advice of your Council aforesaid, you shall, after some trial, see your service not like to be advantageous to the accomplishment of the public end aforesaid; that then you return home with the for|ces; especially if you shall receive any orders or direc|tions so to do from the Massachusetts, or from us. Given under my hand, at Plymouth, the second day of Septem|ber, Anno Dom. 1690.

THO. HINKLEY, Gov. & President.

Now having a fair wind Maj. Church soon got to Pis|cat••qua, who was to apply himself to Maj. Pike, a worthy gentleman, who said, He had advice of his coming from Boston gentlemen; also he had received directions that what men the said Church should want must be raised out of Hampshire, out of the several towns & garrisons; Maj. Pike ask'd him, How many men he should want? He said enough to make up his forces that he brought with him, 300 at least, and not more than 350. And so in a|bout nine days time he was supply'd with two companies of soldiers. He having been at about twenty shillings a day charge in expences while there. Now he received Maj. Pike's instructions: Which are as followeth:

Portsmouth, in New-Hampshire, Sept. 9, 1690.

To Major Benjamin Church, Commander in Chief of their Majesties forces now designed upon the present expedition eastward, and now resident at Portsmouth.

THE Governor and Council of the Massachusetts Colony reposing great trust and confidence in your loyalty and valour, from experience of your former actions, and of God's presence with you in the same: In pursuance of an or|der, received from them, commanding it: These are in their Majesties names to empower and require you, as Commander in Chief, to take into your care and conduct these forces now here present at their rendezvous at Portsmouth; and they are alike required to obey you: And with them to sail eastward by the first opportunity to Casco, or places adjacent, that may be most commodious for landing with safety and secrecy; and to visit the French and Indians at their head-quarters at Ameras-cogen, Pejepscot, or any other place, according as you may have hope or intelligence of the residence of the ene|my; using always your utmost endeavour for the preservations of your own men, and the killing, destroying, and utterly root|ing out of the enemy, wheresoever they may be found; and also as much as may possibly be done for the redeeming or re|covering of our captives in any places.

You being there arrived, and understanding your way, to take your journey back again either by land or water, as you shall judge most convenient for the accomplishing of the end intended; and to give intelligence always of your motions whensoever you can with safety and convenience.

Lastly, In all to consult your council, the commanders or commission officers of your several companies, when it may be obtained, the greater part of whom to determine: And so the Lord of Hosts, the God of armies, go along with you, and be your conduct. Given under my hand the day and year above|said.

Per ROBERT PIKE.

Being ready, they took the first opportunity, and made the best of their way to Pejepscot fort, where they found

nothing. From thence they marched to Ameras-cogen, and when they came near the fort, Maj. Church made a halt, ordering the Captains to draw out of their several companies 60 of their meanest men, to be a guard to the Doctor and snapsacks, being not a mile from said fort; and then moving towards the fort, they saw young Doney and his wife, with two English captives: The said Doney made his escape to the fort, his wife was shot down, and so the two poor captives were released out of their bondage.—The said Maj. Church and Capt. Walton made no stop, making the best of their way to the fort, with some of the army, in hopes of getting to the fort before young Doney; but the river, through which they must pass, being as deep as their armpits; however Maj. Church, as soon as he was got over, stripp'd to his shirt and jacket, leaving his breech|es behind, ran directly to the fort, having an eye to see if young Doney, who ran on the other side of the river, should get there before him: The wind now blowing very hard in their faces, as they ran, was some help to them; for several of our men fired guns, which they in the fort did not hear, so that we had taken all in the fort, had it not been for young Doney, who got to the fort just before we did, who ran into the south gate, and out at the north, all the men following him, except one, who all ran directly down to the great river and falls. The said Church, and his forces, being come pretty near, he ordered the said Walton to run directly, with some forces, into the fort, and himself, with the rest, ran down to the river after the ene|my, who ran some of them into the river, and the rest under the great falls; those who ran into the river were killed, for he saw but one man get over, and he only crept up the bank, and there lay in open sight; and those that run under the falls they made no discovery of, notwithstanding several of his men went in under the said falls, and were gone some considerable time, could not find them; so leaving a

watch there, return'd up to the fort, where he found but one man taken, and several women and children, amongst whom was Capt. Hakins's wife and Worumbos's wife, the Sachem of that fort, with their children; the said Hakins was Sachem of Pennacook, who destroyed Maj. Walden and his family, some time before, &c. The said two women, viz. Hakins's and Worumbos's wives, requested the said Church that he would spare them and their children's lives, promising, upon that condition, he should have all the captives that were taken, and in the Indians hands: He asked them, how many? They said, about fourscore: So, upon that condition, he promised them their lives, &c. And in the said for there were several English captives, who were in a miserable condition; amongst them was Capt. Huckings's wife, of Oyster-river. Maj. Church pro|ceeded to examine the man taken, who gave him an ac|count that most or the fighting men were gone to Winter|harbour, to provide provisions for the Bay of Fundy Indians, who were to come and join with them to fight the English. The soldiers being very rude, would hardly spare the Indi|an's life, while in examination, intending when he had done that he should be executed: But Capt. Huckings's wife, and another women, down on their knees and beg'd for him, saying, He had been a means to save their lives, and a great many more; and had helped several to oppor|tunities to run away and make their escape; and that ne|ver, since he came amongst them, had fought against the English, but being related to Hakins's wife, kept at the fort with them, he having been there two years; but his living was to the westward of Boston. So, upon their re|quest, his life was spared, &c. Next day the said Church ordered that all their corn should be destroyed, being a great quantity, saving a little for the two old Squaws which he design'd to leave at the fort, to give an account who he was, & from whence he came; the rest being knock'd on the head, except the aforementioned, for an example,

ordering them all to be buried. Having inquired where all their best beaver was? They said, it was carried away to make a present to the Bay of Fundy Indians, who were coming to their assistance.

Now being ready to draw off from thence, he called the two old squaws to him, and gave each of them a kettle and some bisket, bidding them to tell the Indians when they came home, that he was known by the name of Capt. Church, and lived in the westerly part of Plymouth go|vernment; and that those Indians that came with him were formerly King Philip's men, and that he had met with them in Philip's war, and drew them off from him, to fight for the English, against the said Philip and his as|sociates, who then promised him to fight for the English as long as they had one enemy left; and said, that they did not question but before Indian corn was ripe to have Phi|lip's head, notwithstanding he had twice as many men as were in their country; and that they had killed and taken one thousand three hundred and odd of Philip's men, wo|men and children, and Philip himself, with several other Sachems, &c. and that they should tell Hakins and Wo|rumbos, That if they had a mind to see their wives and children they should come to Wells garrison, and that there they might hear of them, &c. Major Church hav|ing done, moved with all his forces down to Mequait, where the transports were (but in the way some of his sol|diers threatened the Indian man prisoner very much, so that in a thick swamp he gave them the slip and got away) and when they all got on board the transport; the wind being fair, made the best of their way for Winter Harbour, and the next morning before day, and as soon as the day appeared, they discovered some smokes rising towards Skaman's garrison: He immediately sent away a scout of 60 men, and followed presently with the whole body; the scout coming near a river discovered the enemy to be on the other side of the river: But three of the enemy

were come over the river, to the same side of the river which the scout was of; ran hastily down to their canoe, one of which lay at each end of the canoe, and the third stood up to paddle over: The scout fired at them, and he that paddled fell down upon the canoe, and broke it to pieces, so that all three perished. The firing put the enemy to the run, who left their canoes and provisions to ours; and old Doney, and one Thomas Baker, an Eng|lishman, who was a prisoner amongst them, were up at the Falls, and heard the guns fire, expected the other Indians were come to their assistance, so came down the river in a canoe; but when they perceived that there were English as well as Indians, old Doney ran the ca|noe ashore, and ran over Baker's head, and followed the rest, and then Baker came to ours; and gave an account of the beaver hid at Pejepscot plain, and coming to the place where the plunder was, the Major sent a scout to Pejepscot fort, to see if they could make any discovery of the enemies tracks, or could discover any coming up the river; who returned and said they saw nothing but our old tracks at the said fort, &c.

Now having got some plunder, one of the Captains said it was time to go home, and several others were of the same mind; and the Major being much disturbed at the motion of theirs, expecting the enemy would come in a very short time, where they might have a great advan|tage of them, &c. Notwithstanding all he could say or do, he was obliged to call a council, according to his in|structions, wherein he was out-voted. The said Com|mander seeing he was put by of his intentions, proffered if sixty men would stay with him, he would not embark as yet; but all he could say or do could not prevail; then they moved to the vessels and embarked, and as they were going in the vessels, on the back side of Mayr-point, they discovered eight or nine canoes, who turned short about, and went up the river; being the same Indians that

the Major expected, and would have waited for; and the aforesaid Captain being much disturbed at what the Ma|jor had said to him, drew off from the fleet, and in the night ran aground, in the morning Anthony Bracket, having been advised and directed by the Indian that had made his escape from our forces, came down near where the afore|said vessel lay aground, and got aboard, who has proved a good pilot & Capt. for his country. The next day being very calm and misry, so that they were all day getting down from Maquail to Perpodack; and the masters of the vessels thinking it not safe putting out in the night, so late in the year, anchor'd there at Perpodack; the vessels being much crowded, the Major ordered that three companies should go on shore, and no more, himself with Capt. Converse went with them to order their lodging, and find|ing just houses convenient for them, viz. two barns and one house; so seeing them all settled and their watches out, the Major and Capt. Converse return'd to go on board, and coming near where the boat was, it was pretty dark, they discovered some men, but did not know what or who they were; the Major ordered those that were with him all to clap down and cock their guns, and he call'd out and ask'd them who they were? And they said, Indians: He ask'd them whose men they were? They said, Captain Southworth's: He ask'd them where they intended to ledge? They said, In those little huts that the enemy had made when they took that garrison. The Major told them they must not make any fires, for if they did, the enemy would be upon them before day. They laugh'd, and said, Our Major is afraid. Having given them their directions, he, with Capt. Converse, went on board the Mary floop; designing to write home, and send away in the morning the two floops which had the small-pox on board, &c.—But before day our Indians began to make fires, and to sing and dance; so the Major called to Capt. Southworth to go ashore and look after his men, for the enemy would

be upon them by and by. He ordered the boat to be haled up to carry him ashore, and call'd Capt. Converse to go with him, and just as the day began to appear, as the Major was getting into the boat to go ashore, the enemy fired upon our men, the Indians, notwithstanding that one Philip, an Indian of ours, who was out upon the watch, heard a man cough, and the sticks crack; who gave the rest an account, that he saw Indians; which they would not believe; but said to him, You are afraid: His answer was, that they might see them come creeping: They leugh'd, and said, They were hogs: Ay, said he, and they will bite you by and by. So presently they did fire upon our men; but the morning being misty their guns did not go off quick, so that our men had all time to fall down before their guns went off, and saved themselves from that volley, except one man, who was kill'd.

This sudden firing upon our Indian soldiers surprised them that they left their arms, but soon recovered them again, and got down the bank, which was but low. The Major, with all the forces on board, landed as fast as they could, the enemy firing smartly at them; however all got safe ashore. The enemy had a great advantage of our forces, who were between the furnising and the enemy, so that if a man put up his head or hand they could see it, and would fire at it: However some, with the Major, got up the bank behind stumps and rocks, to have the advantage of firing at the enemy; but when the sun was risen the Major slipp'd down the bank again, where all the forces were ordered to observe his motion, viz. That he would give three shouts, and then all of them should run with him up the bank: So, when he had given the third shout, ran up the bank, and Capt. Converse with him, but when the said Converse perceived that the forces did not follow as commanded, called to the Major and told him the forces did not follow; who, notwithstanding the ene|my fired smartly at him, got safe down the bank again,

and rallying the forces up the bank, soon put the enemy to flight; and following them so close, that they took 13 canoes, and one lusty man, who had Joseph Ramsdel's scalp by his side, who was taken by two of our Indians, and having his deserts was himself scalped. This being a short and smart fight, some of our men were killed and several wounded. Some time after an Englishman, who was prisoner amongst them, gave an account that our forces had killed and wounded several of the enemy, for they killed several prisoners according to custom, &c.

After this action was over our forces embarked for Pis|cataqua, and the Major went to Wells, and removed the Captain there, and put in Captain Andros, who had been with him and knew the discourse left with the two old squaws at Ameras-cogen, for Hakins and Worumbos to come there in 14 days, if they had a mind to hear of their wives and children: Who did then or soon after come with a flag of truce to said Wells garrison, and had leave to come in, and more appearing came in, to the number of eight, (without any terms) being all Chief Sachems; and were very glad to hear of the women and children, viz. Hakins and Worumbos's wives and children; who all said three se|veral times that they would never fight against the English any more, for the French made fools of them, &c. They saying as they did, the said Andros let them go. Major Church being come to Piscataqua, and two of his trans|ports having the small pox on board, and several of his men having got great colds by their hard service, pretend|ed they were going to have the small-pox, thinking by that means to be sent home speedily; the Major being willing to try them, went to the Gentlemen there, and de|sired them to provide an house, for some of his men ex|pected they should have the small-pox; who readily did, and told him, That the people belonging to it were just recovered of the small-pox, and had been all at meeting, &c. The Major returning to his Officers ordered them

to draw out all their men that were going to have the small-pox, for he had provided an hospital for them: So they drew out 17 men, that had, as they said, all the symp|toms of the small-pox; he ordered them all to follow him, and coming to the house, he asked them how they liked it? They said very well. Then he told them that the people in the said house had all had the small-pox, and were recovered; and that if they went in they must not come out till they all had it: Whereupon they all pre|sently began to grow better, and to make excuses, except one man who desired to stay out till night before he went in, &c. The Major going to the Gentlemen, told them, That one thing more would work a perfect cure upon his men, which was to let them go home: Which did work a cure upon all, except one, and he had not the small-pox. So he ordered the plunder should be divided forthwith, and sent away all the Plymouth forces. But the Gentle|men there desired him to stay, and they would be assisting to him in raising new forces, to the number of what was sent away; and that they would send to Boston for provi|sions; which they did, and sent Captain Plaisted to the Governor and Council at Boston, &c. And in the mean time the Major with those Gentlemen went into all those parts and raised a sufficient number of men, both Officers and soldiers; who all met at the bank on the same day that Captain Plaisted returned from Boston; whose return from the Boston Gentlemen was, That the Canada expe|dition had drained them so that they could do no more: So that Major Church, notwithstanding he had been at con|siderable expences in raising said forces to serve his King and country, was obliged to give them a treat and dismiss them: Taking his leave of them came home to Boston, in the Mary Sloop, Mr. Alden Master, and Captain Converse with him, on a Saturday; and waiting upon the Gover|nor, and some of the Gentlemen in Boston, they looked very strange upon them, which not only troubled them,

but put them in some consternation what the matter should be, that after so much toil and hard service could not have so much as one pleasant word, nor any money in their pockets; for Major Church had but eight pence left, and Captain Converse none, as he said afterwards. Major Church seeing two Gentlemen which he knew had money, asked them to lend him forty shillings, telling them his ne|cessity: Yet they refused. So being bare of money was obliged to lodge at Mr. Alden's three nights; and the next Tuesday morning Captain Converse came to him (not knowing each others circumstances as yet) and said he would walk with him out of town; so coming near Pollard's at the south end, they had some discourse; that it was very hard that they should part with dry lips: Ma|jor Church told Capt. Converse that he had but eight pence left, and could not borrow any money to carry him home. And the said Converse said, that he had not a penny left, so they were obliged to part without going to Pollard's, &c. The said Captain Converse returned back into town, and the said Church went over to Roxbury; and at the tavern he met with Stephen Braton, of Rhode-Island, a drover; who was glad to see him, the said Church, and he as glad to see his neighbour: Whereupon Major Church called for an eight-penny tankard of drink, and let the said Braton know his circumstances, asked him whether he would lend him forty shillings? He answered, yes: Forty Pounds, if he wanted it. So he thanked him, and said, he would have but forty shillings; which he freely lent him: And presently after Mr. Church was told that his brother Caleb Church, of Watertown, was coming with a spare horse for him, having heard the night before that his brother was come in; by which means the said Major Church got home. And for all his travel and expences in raising soldiers, and service done, never had but £. 14 of Plymouth Gentlemen, and not a penny of Boston, notwith|standing he had wore out all his clothes, and run himself in

debt, so that he was obliged to sell half a share of land in Tiverton, for about £60, which is now worth £ 300 more and above what he had.

Having not been at home long before he found out the reason why Boston Gentlemen looked so disaffected on him; as you may see by the sequel of two letters Major Church sent to the Gentlemen in the eastward parts: Which are as followeth.

Bristol,November 27, 1690.

Worthy Gentlemen,

ACCORDING to my promise when with you last, I waited upon the Governor at Boston, upon the Saturday, Capt. Converse being with me. The Gover|nor informed us that the Council was to meet on the Monday following in the afternoon, at which time we both there waited upon them, and gave them an account of the state of your country, and great necessities. They informed us, that their General Court was to convene the Wednesday following, at which time they would debate and consider of the matter; myself being bound home, Captain Converse was ordered to wait upon them, and bring you their resolves. I then took notice of the Council that they looked upon me with an ill aspect, not judging me worthy to receive thanks for the ser|vice I had done in your parts; nor as much as asked me whether I wanted money to bear my expences, or a horse to carry me home. But I was forced, for want of money (being far from friends) to go to Roxbury on foot; but meeting there with a Rhode-Island Gentleman, acquainted him of my wants, who tendered me Ten Pounds, whereby I was accommodated for my journey home: And being come home, I went to the minister of our town, and gave him an account of the transac|tions of the great affairs I had been employed in, and of the great favour God was pleased to shew me, and my company, and the benefit I hoped would accrue to

yourselves; and desired him to return public thanks; but at the same interim of time a paper was presented unto him from a Court of Plymouth, which was holden before I came home, to command a day of humiliation thro' the whole government, because of the frown of God upon those forces sent under my command, and the ill success we had, for want of good conduct. All which was caused by those false reports which were posted home by those ill affected Officers that were under my conduct; especially one which yourselves very well know, who had the advantage of being at home a week before me, being sick of action, and wanting the ad|vantage to be at the bank, which he every day was mindful of more than fighting the enemy in their own country.

After I came home, being informed of a General Court at Plymouth, and not forgetting my faithful pro|mise to you, and the duty I lay under, I went thither, where, waiting upon them, I gave them an account of my eastward transactions, and made them sensible of the falseness of those reports that were posted to them by ill hands, and found some small favourable accept|ance with them, so far that I was credited. I pre|sented your thanks to them for their seasonably sending those forces to relieve you, with that expence and charge they had been at; which thanks they gratefully receiv|ed; and said a few lines from yourselves would have been well accepted. I then gave them an account of your great necessities, by being imprisoned in your gar|risons, and the great mischief that would attend the public concerns of this country by the loss of their Ma|jesties interest, and so much good estate of yours and your neighbours, as doubtless would be on the desert|ing of your town. I then moved for a free contribu|tion for your relief, which they with great forwardness promoted; and then ordered a day of thanksgiving

thro' the government upon the 26th day of this instant. Upon which day a collection was ordered for your re|lief (and the places near adjacent) in every respective town in this government; and for the good manage|ment of it that it might be safely conveyed unto your hands, they appointed a man in each county for the re|ceipt and conveyance thereof. The persons nominated and accepted thereof, are: For the county of Plymouth, Captain Nathaniel Thomas of Marshfield: For the coun|ty of Barnstable, Captain Joseph Lathrop of Barnstable: And for the county of Bristol, myself. Which, when gathered you will have a particular account from each person, with orders of advice how it may be disposed of for your best advantage, with a copy of the Court's or|der. The Gentlemen the effects are to be sent to are yourselves that I now write to, viz. John Wheelwright, Esq Capt. John Littlefield, and Lieutenant Joseph Story. I defer'd writing, expecting every day to hear from you concerning the Indians, coming to treat about their pri|soners that we had taken. The discourse I made with them at Ameras-cogen, I knew would have that effect as to bring them to a treaty, which I would have thought myself happy to have been improved in, knowing that it would have made much for your good. But no in|telligence coming to me from any Gentlemen in your parts, and hearing nothing but by accident, and that in the latter end of the week by some of ours coming from Boston, informed me that the Indians were come into your town to seek for peace; and that there was to be a treaty speedily; but the time they knew not. I took my horse, and upon the Monday set out for Boston, ex|pecting the treaty had been at your town, as rationally it should; but on Tuesday night coming to Boston, there met with Captain Elisha Andros, who informed me that the place of treaty was Sacaty-hock, and that Cap|tain Alden was gone from Boston four days before I came

there, and had carried all the Indian prisoners with him, and that all the forces were drawn away out of your parts, except 12 men in your town, and 12 in Piscata|qua, which news did so amuse me, to see that wisdom was taken from the wise, and such imprudence in their actions, as to be deluded by Indians; and to have a treaty so far from any English town, and to draw off the forces upon what pretence soever, to me looks very ill. My fear is that they will deliver those we have taken, which, if kept, would have been greatly for your secu|rity, in keeping them in awe, and preventing them from doing any hostile action or mischief, I knowing that the English being abroad are very earnest to go home, and the Indians are very tedious in their discourses, and by that means will have an advantage to have their captives at very low rates, to your great damage. Gentlemen, as to Rhode Island, I have not concerned myself as to any relief for you, having nothing in writing to show to them, yet upon discourse with some Gentlemen there, they have signified a great forwardness to promote such a thing. I lying under great reflections from some of yours in the eastward parts, that I was a very cove|tuous person, and came there to enrich myself, and that I killed their cattle and barreled them up, and sent them to Boston, and sold them for plunder, and made mo|ney to put into my own pocket; and the owners of them being poor people begged for the hides and tallow, with tears in their eyes; and that I was so cruel as to deny them; which makes me judge myself incapable to serve you in that matter: Yet I do assure you that the people are very charitable at the island, and forward in such good actions, and therefore advise you to desire some good substantial person to take the management of it, and write to the government there, which I know will not be labour lost. As nor what I am accused of, you all can witness to the contrary, and I should take it very

kindly from you to do me that just right, as to vindi|cate my reputation; for the wise man says, A good name is as precious ointment. When I hear of the effects of the treaty, and have an account of this contribution, I intend again to write to you, being very desirous, and should think myself very happy; to be favoured with a few lines from yourselves, or any Gentleman in the east|ward parts. Thus leaving you to the protection and guidance or the Great God of Heaven and Earth, who is able to protect and supply you in your great difficul|ties, and to give you deliverance in his own due time;

I remain, Gentlemen,

Your most assured friend to serve you to my utmost power, Benjamin Church.

Postscript. Esquire Wheelwright, Sir, I entreat you, after your perusal of these lines, to communicate the same to Captain John Littlefield, Lieutenant Joseph Sto|ry; and to any other Gentlemen, as in your judgment you see fit: With the tenders of my respects to you, &c. and to Major Vaughan, and his good Lady and fa|mily. To Captain Fryer and good Mrs. Fryer, with hearty thanks for their kindness whilst in those parts, and good entertainment from them. My kind respects to Maj. Frost, Capt. Walton, Lieut. Honeywel, and my very good friend little Lieut. Plaisted: With due respects to all Gentlemen my friends in the eastward parts, as if particularly named.

Farewell. B. C.

To Major Pike. Honored Sir,

Bristol, Nov. 27, 1690.

THESE come to wait upon you, to bring the tenders of my hearty service to yourself and lady, with due ac|knowledgment of thankfulness for all the kindness and favour I received from you in the eastward parts, when with you. Since I came from those parts, I am informed, by Capt. Andros, that yourself and most all the forces, are drawn off

from the eastward parts; I admire at it, considering that they had so low esteem of what was done, that they can ap|prehend the eastward parts so safe before the enemy were brought into better subjection. I was in hopes, when I came from thence, that those who were so desirous to have my room, would have been very brisk in my absence, to have got themselves some honor, which they very much gaped af|ter, or else they would not have spread so many false reports to defame me: Which had I known, before I left the bank, I would have had satisfaction of them. Your honor was pleased to give me some small account, before I left the bank, of some things that were ill represented to you, concerning the eastward expedition, which being rolled home like a snow-ball through both colonies was got to such a bigness that it over|shadowed me from the influence of all comfort, or good accept|ance amongst my friends in my journey homeward. But thro' God's goodness am come home, finding all well, and myself in good health, hoping that those reports will do me the favour, to quit me from all other public actions; that so I may the more peaceably and quietly wait upon God, and be a comfort to my own family, in this dark time of trouble; being as one hid, till his indignation is overpast. I shall take it as a great favour to hear of your welfare: Subscribing myself, as I am, Sir,

Your most assured friend and servant, Benjamin Church.

Major Church did receive, after this, answers to his let|ters, but hath lost them, except it be a letter from several of the gentlemen in those parts, in June following; which is as followeth:

Portsmouth, June 29, 1691.

Major Benj. Church, SIR,

YOUR former readiness to expose yourself in the service of the country, against the common enemy; and parti|cularly the late obligations, you have laid upon us, in

these eastern parts, leaves us under a deep and grateful sense of your favour therein: And forasmuch as you was pleased, when last here, to signify your ready inclination to further ser|vice of this kind, it occasion should call for it: We therefore presume confidently to promise ourselves compliance according|ly; and have sent this messenger on purpose to you, to let you know, that notwithstanding the late overture of peace, the enemy have approved themselves as perfidious as ever, and are almost daily killing and destroying upon all our fron|tiers: The Governor and Council of the Massachusetts have been pleased to order the raising of 150 men, to be forthwith despatched into those parts; and, as we understand have writ to your Governor and Council of Plymouth for further assist|ance, which we pray you to promote, hoping if you can ob|tain about 200 men, English and Indians, to visit them at some of their head quarters, up Kennebeck river, or else|where, which (for want of necessaries) was omitted last year, it may be of great advantage to us. We offer nothing of advice as to what methods are most proper to be taken in this affair, your acquaintance with our circumstances as well as the enemies, will direct you therein: We leave the con|duct thereof to your own discretion; but that the want of provision, &c. may be no remora to your motion, you may please to know Mr. Geafford, one of our principal inhabi|tants, now residing in Boston, hath promised to take care to supply to the value of two or three hundred pounds, if occa|sion require: We pray a few lines by the bearer to give us a prospect of what we may expect for our further encourage|ment, and remain,

Sir,

Your obliged friends and servants, Will. Vaughan, Richard Martyn, Nathaniel Fryer, William Fernald, Francis Hooke, Charles Frost, John Wincol, Robert Elliott.

A true copy of the original letter; which letter was pre|sented to me by Captain Hatch, who came express.

Major Church sent them his answer: The contents whereof was, That he had gone often enough for nothing; and especially to be ill treated with scandals and false re|ports, when last out, which he could not forget. And signified to them. That doubless some amongst them thought they could do without him, &c. And to make short of it, did go out, and meeting with the enemy at Maquait, were most shamefully beaten, as I have been informed.

The Third EXPEDITION East.

THIS was in the year 1692. In the time of Sir William Phips's government: Major Walley being at Boston, was requested by his Excellency to treat with Major Church about going East with him. Major Walley coming home, did as desired; and to encourage the said Major Church, told him, That now was the time to have recompence for his former great expences; saying also, That the country could not give him less than two or three hundred pounds. So upon his Excellency's request Maj. Church went down to Boston, and waited upon him; who said he was glad to see him, &c. And after some dis|course told the said Church, That he was going East him|self, and that he should be his second, and in his absence command all the forces: And being requested by his Ex|cellency to raise what volunteers he could of his old soldiers in the county of Bristol, both English and Indians, received his commission: Which is as followeth.

Sir WILLIAM PHIPS, Knight, Captain General and Governor in Chief, in and over his Majesty's province of the Massachusett's-Bay, in New-England:

To BENJAMIN CHURCH, Gent. Greeting.

REPOSING special trust and confidence in your loyalty, courage and good conduct: I do by

these presents constitute and appoint you to be Major of the several companies of militia, detached for their Majesties service against their French and Indian ene|mies. You are therefore authorized and required in their Majesties names, to discharge the duty of a Major, by leading, ordering and exercising the said several com|panies in arms, both inferior Officers and soldiers, keep|ing them in good order and discipline, commanding them to obey you as their Major: And diligently to intend the said service, for the prosecuting, pursuing, killing and destroying of the said common enemy. And yourself to observe and follow such orders and direc|tions as you shall from time to time receive from myself, according to the rules and discipline of war, pursuant to the trust reposed in you for their Majesties service. Given under my hand and seal at Boston, the twenty-fifth day of July 1692. In the fourth year of the reign of our Sovereign Lord and Lady William and Mary, by the grace of GOD, King and Queen of England, Scot|land, France and Ireland, defender of the faith, &c.

WILLIAM PHIPS.

By his Excellency's command, Isaac Addington, Secr.

Returning home to the county aforesaid, he soon raised a sufficient number of volunteers, both English and In|dians, and Officers suitable to command them, marched them down to Boston. But there was one thing I would just mention; which was, That Major Church, being short of money, was forced to borrow six pounds in mo|ney of Lieutenant Woodman, in Little-Compton, to distri|bute by a shilling, and a bit at a time to the Indian sol|diers; who, without such allurements, would not have marched to Boston. This Money Major Church put into the hands of Mr. William Fobes, who was going out their commissary in that service, who was ordered to keep a just account of what each Indian had, so that it might be

deducted out of their wages at their return home. Com|ing to Boston, his Excellency having got things in a rea|diness, they embarked on board their transports, his Ex|cellency going in person with them, being bound to Pe|mequid; but in their way stopped at Casco, and buried the bones of the dead people there, and took off the great guns that were there; then went to Pemequid: Coming there his Excellency asked Major Church to go ashore and give his judgment about erecting a fort there? He an|swered, That his genius did not incline that way, for he never had any value for them, being only nests for de|structions: His Excellency said, He had a special order from their Majesties King William and Queen Mary, to erect a fort there, &c. Then they went ashore and spent some time in the projection thereof. Then his Excellen|cy told Major Church that he might take all the forces with him, except one company to stay with him, and work about the fort; the Major answered, that if his Ex|cellency pleased he might keep two companies with him, and he would go with the rest to Penobscot, and places ad|jacent. Which his Excellency did, and gave Major Church his orders, which are as followeth.

By his Excellency Sir WILLIAM PHIPS, Knight, Cap|tain General and Governor in Chief, in and over their Majesties province of the Massachusett's-Bay, in New-England, &c.

INSTRUCTIONS for Major Benjamin Church.

WHEREAS you are Major, and so chief Officer, of a body of men detached out of the militia ap|pointed for an expedition against the French and Indian enemy; you are duly to observe the following in|structions:

Imprimis, You are to take care that the worship of God be duly and constantly maintained and kept up a|mongst you; and to suffer no swearing, cursing, or other

profanation of the holy name of God; and, as much as in you lies, to deter and hinder all other vices amongst your soldiers.

2dly, You are to proceed, with the soldiers under your command, to Penobscot, and, with what privacy and un|discoverable methods you can, there to land your men, and take the best measures to surprise the enemy.

3dly, You are, by killing, destroying, and all other means possible, to endeavour the destruction of the ene|my, in pursuance whereof, being satisfied of your cou|rage and conduct, I leave the same to your discretion.

4thly, You are to endeavour the taking what cap|tives you can, either men, women or children, and the same safely to keep and convey them unto me.

5thly, Since it is not possible to judge how affairs may be circumstanced with you there, I shall therefore not limit your return, but leave it to your prudence, only that you make no longer stay than you can improve for advantage against the enemy, or may reasonably hope for the same.

6thly, You are also to take care and be very indu|strious by all possible means to find out and destroy all the enemies corn, and other provisions in all places where you can come at the same.

7thly, You are to return from Penobscot and those eastern parts, to make all despatch hence for Kennebeck river, and the places adjacent, and there prosecute all advantages against the enemy as aforesaid.

8thly, If any soldier, Officer, or other shall be dis|obedient to you as their Commander in Chief, or other their superior Officer, or make, or cause any mutiny, commit other offence or disorders, you shall call a coun|cil of war amongst your Officers, and having tried him or them so offending, inflict such punishment as the me|rit of the offence requires, death only excepted, which,

if any shall deserve, you are to secure the person, and signify the crime unto me by the first opportunity.

Given under my hand this11th day of August, 1692.

WILLIAM PHIPS.

Then the Major and his forces embarked, and made the best of their way to Penobscot; and coming to an island in those parts in the evening, landed his forces at one end of the said island: Then the Major took part of his forces, and moved toward day to the other end of the said island, where they found two Frenchmen, and their families in their houses; and that one or both of them had Indian women to their wives, and had children by them. The Major presently examining the Frenchmen, where the In|dians were? They told him, that there was a great com|pany of them upon an island just by; and showing him the island, presently discovered several of them. Major Church and his forces still keeping undiscovered to them, asked the Frenchmen where their passing place was? Which they readily showed them; so presently they placed an ambuscade to take any that should come over. Then sent orders for all the rest of the forces to come; sending them an account of what he had seen and met withal; strictly charging them to keep themselves undiscovered by the enemy. The ambuscade did not lie long before an Indian man and woman came over in a canoe, to the place for landing, where the ambuscade was laid, who haled up their canoe, and came right into the hands of our ambuscade, who so suddenly surprised them that they could not give any notice to the others from whence they came; the Major ordering that none of his should offer to meddle with the canoe, lest they should be discovered, hoping to take the most of them if his forces came as or|dered, he expecting them to come as directed; but the first news he had of them was, That they were all coming, though not privately, as ordered; but the vessels fair in fight of the enemy, which soon put them all to flight;

and our forces not having boats suitable to pursue them, they got all away in their canoes, &c. (which caused Ma|jor Church to say, he would never go out again without sufficient number of whale-boats) which for want of was the ruin of that action. Then Major Church, according to his instructions, ranged all those parts, to find all their corn, and carried aboard their vessels what he thought convenient, and destroyed the rest. Also finding con|siderable quantities of plunder, viz. beaver, moose-skins, &c. Having done what service they could in those parts, he returned back to his Excellency at Pemequid; where being come, staid not long, they being short of bread, his Excellency intended home for Boston, for more provisions; but before, going with Major Church and his forces to Kennebeck river, and coming there, gave him further or|ders, which are as followeth:

By his Excellency the Governor.

To Major BENJAMIN CHURCH.

YOU having already received former instructions, are now further to proceed with the soldiers un|der your command for Kennebeck river, and the places adjacent, and use your utmost endeavours to kill, de|stroy and take captive the French and Indian enemy wheresoever you shall find any of them; and at your re|turn to Pemequid (which you are to do as soon as you can conveniently; after your best endeavour done against the enemy, and having destroyed their corn and other provisions) you are to stay with all your soldiers and Of|ficers, and set them to work on the fort, and make what despatch you can in that business, staying there until my further order.

WILLIAM PHIPS.

Then his Excellency taking leave went for Boston, and soon after Major Church and his forces had a smart fight with the enemy in Kennebeck river, pursued them so hard that they left their canoes, and ran up into the woods, still pursued them up to their fort at Taconock, which the ene|my

perceiving set fire to their houses in the fort, and ran away by the light of them, and when Major Church came to the said fort found about half their houses standing and the rest burnt; also found great quantities of corn, put up into Indian cribs, which he and his forces destroyed, as ordered.

Having done what service he could in those parts, re|turned to Pemequid, and coming there employed his forces according to his instructions. Being out of bread, his Excellency not coming, Major Church was obliged to borrow bread of the Captain of the man of war that was then there, for all the forces under his command, his Ex|cellency not coming as expected; but at length his Ex|cellency came and brought very little bread more than would pay what was borrowed of the man of war: So that in a short time after Major Church, with his forces, re|turned home to Boston, and had their wages for their good service done. Only one thing by the way I will just mention, that is, about the Six Pounds Major Church borrowed as afore-mentioned, and put into the hands of Mr. Fobes, who distributed the said money, all but thirty shillings, to the Indian soldiers, as directed, which was deducted out of their wages, and the country had credit for the same; and the said Fobes kept the 30S. to himself, which was deducted out of his Wages. Whereupon Maj. Walley and said Fobes had some words. In short, Maj. Church was obliged to expend about six pounds of his own money in marching down the forces both English and Indians, to Boston, having no drink allowed them upon the road, &c. So that instead of Major Church's having the allowances afore-mentioned by Major Walley, he was out of pocket about twelve pounds over and above what he had; all which had not been had not his Excellency been gone out of the country.

The 4th EXPEDITION East.

IN 1696 Major Church being at Boston, and belonging to the House of Representatives, several Gentlemen requesting him to go East again, and the General Court having made acts of encouragement, &c. He told them, if they would provide whale-boats, and other necessaries convenient, he would: Being also requested by the said General Court, he proceeded to raise volunteers, and made it his whole business, riding both east and west in our province and Connecticut, at great charge and expences; and in about a month's time raised a sufficient number out of those parts, and marched them down to Boston; where he had the promise that every thing should be ready in three weeks or a month's time, but was obliged to stay considerably longer. Being now at Boston, he received his commission and instructions; which are as followeth.

WILLIAM STOUGHTON, Esquire, Lieutenant Go|vernor, and Commander in Chief, in and over his Majesty's province of the Massachusetts-Bay, in New-England:

To Major BENJAMIN CHURCH, Greeting.

WHEREAS there are several companies raised, consisting of Englishmen and Indians, for his Ma|jesty's service, to go forth upon the encouragement given by the Great and General Court, or Assembly of this his Maje|sty's province, convented at Boston, the 27th day of May, 1696, to prosecute the French and Indian enemy, &c. And you having offered yourself to take the command and con|duct of the said several companies: By virtue therefore of the power and authority in and by his Majesty's royal com|mission to me granted, reposing special trust and confidence in your loyalty, prudence, courage and good conduct: I do by these presents constitute and appoint you to be Major of the said several companies, both Englishmen and Indians, raised

for his Majesty's service upon the encouragement aforesaid. You are therefore carefully and diligently to perform the duty of your place, by leading, ordering, and exercising the said several companies in arms, both inferior Officers and soldiers, keeping them in good order and discipline, commanding them to obey you as their Major. And yourself diligently to intend his Majesty's service for the prosecuting, pursuing, taking, killing or destroying the said enemy by sea or land; and to observe all such orders and instructions as you shall from time to time receive from myself, or Commander in Chief for the time being, according to the rules and discipline of war, pur|suant to the trust reposed in you. Given under my hand and seal at arms, at Boston, the third day of August, 1696, in the eighth year of the reign of our sovereign Lord William the Third, by the grace of God, of England, Scotland, France and Ireland, King, Defender of the Faith, &c.

WILLIAM STOUGHTON.

By command of the Lieut. Gov. &c. Isaac Addington, Secr.

Province of the Massachusetts-Bay.

By the Right Honorable the Lieutenant Governor and Com|mander in Chief.

INSTRUCTIONS for Major Benjamin Church, Commander of the forces raised for his Majesty's service, against the French and Indian enemy and rebels.

PURSUANT to the commission given you, you are to embark the forces now furnished and equipped for his Majesty's service on the present expedition, to the east|ern parts of this province, and with them, and such others as shall offer themselves to go forth on the said service, to sail unto Piscataqua, to join those lately despatched thither for the same expedition, to await your coming: And with all care and diligence to improve the vessels, boats and men un|der your command, in search for, prosecution and pursuit of the said enemy, at such places where you may be informed of

their abode or resort, or where you may probably expect to find, or meet with them, and take all advantages against them which Providence shall favour you with.

You are not to list or accept any soldiers that are already in his Majesty's pay, and posted at any town or garrison with|in this province, without special order from myself.

You are to require and give strict orders that the duties of religion be attended on board the several vessels, and in the several companies under your command, by daily prayers unto God, and reading his holy word, and observance of the Lord's Day, to the utmost you can.

You are to see that your soldiers have their due allowance of provisions and other necessaries, and that the sick or wound|ed be accommodated in the best manner your circumstances will admit. And that good order and command may be kept up and maintained in the several companies, and all disorders, drunkenness, profane cursing, swearing, disobedience to Of|ficers, mutinies, omissions or neglect of duty, be duly punished according to the laws martial. And you are to require the Captain or chief Officer of each company, with the clerk of the same, to keep an exact journal of all their proceedings from time to time.

In case any of the Indian enemy and rebels offer to submit themselves, you are to receive them only at discretion; but if you think fit to improve any of them, or any others which you may happen to take prisoners, you may encourage them to be faithful by the promise of their lives, which shall be granted upon approbation of their fidelity.

You are carefully to look after the Indians which you have out of the prison, so that they may not have opportunity to escape, but otherwise improve them to what advantage you can, and return them back again to this place.

You are to advise, as you can have occasion, with Captain John Gorham, who accompanies you in this expedition, and is to take your command in case of your death. A copy of these

instructions you are to leave with him, and to give me an account from time to time of your proceedings.

WILLIAM STOUGHTON.

Boston, August 12th, 1696.

In the time Major Church lay at Boston, the news came of Pemequid fort being taken; it came by a shallop that brought some prisoners to Boston, who gave an account also that there was a French ship at Mount-Desart, who had taken a ship of ours; so the discourse was that they would send the man of war, with other forces to take the would send the man of war, with other forces to take the •• French ship, and retake ours. But in the mean time Major Church and his forces being ready, embarked, and on the 15th day of August set sail for Piscataqua, where more men were to join them, (but before they left Bos|ton, Major Church discoursed with the Captain of the man of war, who promised him, if he went to Mount-Desart, in pursuit of the French ship, that he would call for him and his forces at Piscataqua, expecting that the French and Indians might not be far from the said French ship, so that he might have an opportunity to fight them while he was engaged with the French ship:) Soon after the forces arrived at Piscataqua, the Major sent his Indian sol|diers to Colonel Gidney, at York, to be assisting for the de|fence of those places; who gave them a good commend for their ready and willing services done, in scouting, and the like. Lying at Piscataqua with the rest of our forces near a week, waiting for more forces who were to join them, to make up their complement; in all which time heard never a word of the man of war. On the 22d of August they all embarked for Piscataqua, and when they came against York, the Major went ashore, sending Capt. Gorham with some forces, in two brigantines and a sloop, to Winter-Harbour, ordering him to send out scouts, to see if they could make any discovery of the enemy, and to wait there till he came to them. Major Church coming

to York, Col. Gidney told him his opinion was, That the enemy was drawn off from those parts, for that the scouts could not discover any of them, nor their tracks. So hav|ing done his business there, went, with what forces he had there, to Winter-Harbour, where he had the same account from Captain Gorham, That they had not discovered any of the enemy, nor any new tracks: So, concluding they were gone from those parts towards Penobscot, the Major ordered all the vessels to come to sail and make the best of their way to Monbegin, which being not far from Pe|nobscot, where the main body of our enemies living was; being in great hopes to come up with the army of French and Indians, before they had scattered and were gone past Penobscot, or Mount-Desart, which is the chief place of their departure from each other after such actions; and having a fair wind made the best of their way, and early next morning they got into Monbegin, and there lay all day sitting their boats, and other necessaries to embark in the night at Mussel-neck with their boats; lying there all day to keep undiscovered from the enemy; at night the Major ordered the vessels all to come to sail, and carry the forces over the bay, near Penobscot; but having little wind, he ordered all the soldiers to embark on board the boats with eight day's provision, and sent the vessels back to Monbegin, that they might not be discovered by the enemy; giving them orders when and where they should come to him. The forces being all ready in their boats, rowing very hard, got ashore at a point near Penobscot, just as the day broke, and hid their boats, and keeping a good look-out by sea, and sent scouts out by land; but could not discover either canoes or Indians; what tracks and fire-places they saw were judged to be seven or eight days before they came: As soon as night came, that they might go undiscovered, got into their boats, and went by Mus|sel-neck, and so amongst Penobscot Islands, looking very sharp as they went for fires on the shore, and for canoes,

but found neither; getting up to Mathebestucks hills, day coming on, landed, and hid their boats; looking out for the enemy, as the day before, but to little purpose. Night coming on, to their oars again, working very hard, turn'd the night into day; made several of their new soldiers grumble: But telling them they hoped to come up quick|ly with the enemy, put new life into them; and by day|light they got into the mouth of the river, where landing, found many rendezvous and fire places where the Indians had been; but at the same space of time, as before-men|tioned. And no canoes passed up the river that day. Their pilot, Joseph York, informed the Major that 50 or 60 miles up that river, at the great falls, the enemy had a great rendezvous, and planted a great quantity of corn, when he was a prisoner with them, four years ago, and that he was very well acquainted there; this gave great encouragement to have had some considerable advantage of the enemy at that place; so using their utmost endea|vours to get up there undiscovered, and coming there found no enemy, nor corn planted, they having deserted the place. And ranging about the falls on both sides of the river, leaving men on the east side of the said river, and the boats just below the falls, with a good guard to secure them, and to take the enemy if they came down the river in their canoes. The west side being the place where the enemy lived and best to travel on, they resolved to range as privately as they could, a mile or two above the falls discovered a birch canoe coming down with two Indians in it, the Major sent word immediately back to those at the falls, to lie very close, and let them pass down the falls, and to take them alive, that he might have intelligence where the enemy was (which would have been a great advantage to them;) but a foolish soldier seeing them passing by him, shot at them, contrary to or|ders given, which prevented them going into the ambus|cade that was laid for them; whereupon several more of|our

men being near, shot at them; so that one of them could not stand when he got ashore, but crept away into the brush, the other stepped out of the canoe with his paddle in his hand, and ran about a rod, and then threw down his paddle, and turned back and took up his gun, and so escaped. One of our Indians swam over the river, and fetched the canoe, wherein was a considerable quanti|ty of blood on the feats, that the Indians fat on; the ca|noe having several holes shot in her: They stopt the holes, and then Capt. Bracket, with an Indian soldier, went over the river, who track'd them by the blood about half a mile, found his gun, took it up, and seeing the blood no further, concluded that he stop'd his blood, and so got away. In the mean time another canoe with three men were coming down the river, were fired at by some of our forces, ran ashore, and left two of their guns in the canoe, which were taken, and also a letter from a Priest to Ca|steen, that gave him an account of the French and Indians returning over the lake to Mount-Royal, and of their little service done upon the Maquas Indians westward, only de|molishing one fort, and cutting down some corn, &c. He desiring to hear of the proceedings of Deborabuel, and the French man of war; and informed him that there were several canoes coming with work-men from Quebec, to St. John's, where since we concluded it was to build a fort at the river's mouth, where the great guns were taken, &c. It being just night, the Officers were called together to ad|vise, and their pilot York informed them of a fort up that river, and that it was built on a little island in that river; and that there was no getting to it but in canoes, or on the ice in the winter time: This, with the certain know|ledge that we were discovered by the enemy that escaped out of the upper canoe, concluded it not proper, at that time, to proceed any further up, and that there was no getting any further with our boats; and the enemy being alarmed would certainly fly from them (and do as they

did four years ago at their fort at Taconock; having fought them in Kennebeck river, and pursued them about thirty miles to Taconock; for they then set their fort on fire, and run away by the light of it, ours not being able to come up with them at that place.) Major Church then encou|raging his soldiers, told them, he hoped they should meet with part of the enemy, in Penobscot-Bay, or at Mount-De|sart, where the French ships were. So notwithstanding they had been rowing several nights before, with much toil, besides were short of provisions, they cheerfully em|barked on board their boats, and went down the river, both with and against the tide: And next morning came to their vessels, where the Major had ordered them to meet him, who could give him no intelligence of any ene|my. Where being come they refresh'd themselves; meet|ing then with another disappointment, for their pilot York not being acquainted any further, they began to lament the loss of one Robert Cawley, who they chiefly depended on for all the service to be done now eastward: He having been taken away from them the night before they set fail from Boston (and was on board Mr. Thorp's sloop) and put on board the man of war, unknown to Major Church; notwithstanding he had been at the charge and trouble of procuring him. Then the Major was obliged to one Board, procured by Mr. William Alden, who being acquainted in those parts, to leave his vessel, and go with him in the boats, which he readily complied with, and so went to Nasket-point; where being informed was a likely place to meet with the enemy; coming there found several houses and small fields of corn, the fires having been out se|veral days, and no new tracks. But upon Penobscot island they found several Indian houses, corn and turnips, tho' the enemy still being all gone, as before-mentioned. Then they divided and sent their boats some one way, and some another, thinking that if any straggling Indians, or Casteen himself, should be thereabout, they might find them, but

it proved all in vain. Himself and several boats went to Mount-Desart, to see if the French ships were gone, and whether any of the enemy might be there, but to no pur|pose: The ships being gone, and the enemy also. They being now got several leagues to the westward of their ves|sels; and seeing that the way was clear for their vessels to pass: And all their extreme rowing, and travelling by land and water, night and day, to be all in vain. The enemy having left those parts, as they judged, about eight or ten days before. And then returning to their vessels, the Commander calling all his Officers together, to consult and resolve what to do, concluding that the enemy, by some means or other, had received some intelligence of their being come out against them; and that they were in no necessity to come down to the sea side as yet, moose and beaver now being fat. They then agreed to go so far East, and employ themselves, that the enemy, belonging to those parts, might think they were gone home. Having some discourse about going over to St. John's; but the masters of the vessels said, he had as good carry them to Old France, &c. which put off that design, they conclud|ing that the French ships were there. Then the Major moved for going over the bay, towards Lahane, and to|ward the gut of Cancer, where was another considerable fort of Indians, who often came to the assistance of our enemy, the barbarous Indians; saying, that by the time they should return again, the enemy belonging to those parts would come down again, expecting that we are gone home. But in short, could not prevail with the masters of the open sloops to venture across the bay; who said it was very dangerous so late in the year, and as much as their lives were worth, &c. Then they concluded and resolved to go to Senactaca, wherein there was a ready compliance (but the want of their pilot, Robert Cawley, was a great damage to them, who knew all those parts:) However, Mr. John Alden, master of the brigantine En|deavour,

piloted them up the bay to Senactaca; and com|ing to Grinstone-point, being not far from Senactaca; then came to with all the vessels, and early next morning came to fail, and about sunrise got into town; but it being so late before we landed, that the enemy, most of them, made their escape, and as it happened landed where the French and Indians had some time before killed Lieutenant John Paine, and several of Captain Smithson's men, that were with said Paine.) They seeing our forces coming took the opportunity, fired several guns, and so ran all into the woods, carried all or most part of their goods with them. One Jarman Bridgway came running towards our forces, with a gun in one hand, and his cartridge-box in the other, calling to our forces to stop, that he might speak with them; but Major Church thinking it was that they might have some advantage, ordered them to run on; when the said Bridgway saw they would not stop, turned and ran, but the Major called unto him, and bid him stop, or he should be shot down; some of our forces be|ing near to the said Bridgway, said it was the General that called to him: He hearing that, stopped and turned about, laying down his gun, stood, till the Major came up to him; his desire was that the Commander would make haste with him to his house, left the savages should kill his father and mother, who were upward of fourscore years of age, and could not go. The Major asked the said Bridgway whether there were any Indians amongst them, and where they lived? He shaked his head, and said, he durst not tell, for if he did they would take an opportunity and kill him and his. So all that could be got out of him was, that they were run into the woods with the rest. Then orders were given to pursue the ene|my, and to kill what Indians they could find, and take the French alive, and give them quarter if they asked it. Our forces soon took three Frenchmen, who, upon examin|ation, said, That the Indians were all run into the woods.

The French firing several guns at our forces, and ours at them; but they being better acquainted with the woods than ours, got away. The Major took the abovesaid Jarman Bridgway for a pilot, and with some of his forces went over a river, to several of their houses, but the people were gone and carried their goods with them: In ranging the woods found several Indian houses, their fires being just out, but no Indians. Spending that day in ranging to and for, found considerable of their goods, and but few people; at night the Major writ a letter, and sent out two French prisoners, wherein was signified, That if they would come in, they should have good quarters. The next day several came in, which did belong to that part of the town where our forces first landed, who had en|couragements given them by our Commander, That if they would assist him in taking those Indians which be|longed to those parts, they should have their goods re|turned to them again, and their estates should not be dam|nified; which they refused. Then the Major & his forces pursued their design, & went further ranging their country, found several more houses, but the people fled, & carried what they had away; but in a creek found a prize bark, that was brought in there by a French privateer. In ranging the woods took some prisoners, who upon examination gave our Commander an account, that there were some Indians upon a neck of land, towards Menes; so a party of men was sent into those woods, and in their ranging about the said neck found some plunder, and a consider|able quantity of whortleberries, both green and dry, which were gathered by the Indians, and had like to have taken two Indians, who, by the help of a birch canoe, got over the river, and made their escape. Also they found two barrels of powder, and near half a bushel of bullets; the French denying it to be theirs, said they were the savages, but sure it might be a supply for our enemies: Also they took from Jarman Bridway several barrels of powder,

with bullets, shot, spears and knives, and other supplies to relieve our enemies; he owning that he had been a trad|ing with those Indians along Gape-Sable shore, with Peter Assnow, &c. in a sloop our forces took from him; and that there he met with the French ships, and went along with them to St. John's, and helped them to unload the said ships, and carried up the river provisions, ammuni|tion, and other goods to Vilboon's fort.

The Major having ranged all places that were thought proper, return'd back to the place where they first land|ed, and finding several prisoners come in, who were trou|bled to see their cattle, sheep, hogs and dogs lying dead about their houses, chopp'd and hack'd with hatchets; (which was done without order from the Major) however he told them, it was nothing to what our poor English, in our frontier towns, were forced to look upon; for men, women and children were chopp'd and hack'd so, and left half dead, with all their scalps taken off, and that they, and their Indians, served ours so; and our savages would be glad to serve them so too, if he would permit them; which caused them to be mighty submissive, and begged the Major that he would not let the savages serve them so. Our Indians being somewhat sensible of the discourse, de|sired to have some of them to roast, and so make a dance; and dancing in a hideous manner, to terrify them; said, That they could eat any sort of flesh, and that some of theirs would make their hearts strong: Stepping up to some of the prisoners, said, They must have their scalps, which much terrified the poor prisoners, who begged for their lives. The Major told them he did not design the savages should hurt them; but it was to let them see a lit|tle what the poor English felt, saying, It was not their scalps he wanted, but the savages, for he should get no|thing by them; and told them, That their fathers, the Friars and Governors, encouraged their savages, and gave

them money to scalp our English, notwithstanding they were with them; which several of our English, there pre|sent, did testify to their faces, that their fathers & mothers were served so in their sight. But the Major bid them tell their fathers the Friars, and the Governors, That if they still persisted, and let their wretched savages kill and destroy the poor English at that rate, he would come with some hundreds of savages, and let them loose amongst them, who would kill, scalp, & carry away every French person in all those parts, for they were the root from whence all the branches came that hurt us; for the In|dians could not do us any harm, if they did not relieve and supply them. The French being sensible of the Ma|jor's kindness to them, kiss'd his hand, & were very thank|ful to him for his favour to them in saving their lives; owned that their Priests were at the taking of Pemequid fort, and were now gone to Layhone, with some of the In|dians, to meet the French ships, but for what they would not tell. The Commander, with his forces, having done all they could in those parts, concluded to go to St. John's river, to do further service for their King and country, embarked all on board their transports; and having a fair wind, soon got to Monogenest, which lies a little distance from the mouth of St. John's river. Next morning early the Major, with his forces, landed to see what discovery they could make, travelled across the woods to the old fort or falls at the mouth of St. John's river, keeping themselves undiscovered from the enemy; finding that there were several men at work, and having informed themselves as much as they could (the enemy being on the other side of the river, could not come at them) return|ed back, but night coming on, and dark wet weather, with bad travelling, was obliged to stop in the woods till to|wards day next morning, and then went on board; soon after the Major ordered all the vessels to come to fail, and go into the mouth of the river; being done, it was not

long before the Major and his forces landed on the east side of the river, the French firing briskly at them, but did them no harm; and running fiercely upon the enemy, they soon fled into the woods. The Major ordered a brisk party to run across a neck to cut them off from their canoes, which the day before they had made a discovery of; so the Commander, with the rest, ran directly towards the new fort they were building, not knowing but they had some ordnance mounted. The enemy running di|rectly to their canoes, were met by our forces, who fired at them, and killed one, and wounded Corporal Canton, who was taken, the rest threw down what they had and ran into the woods; the said prisoner Canton being brought to the Major, told him, if he would let his Surgeon dress his wound and cure him, he would be serviceable to him as long as he lived: So, being dress'd, he was examined: Who gave the Major an account of the twelve great guns which were hid in the beach, below high water mark; (the carriages, shot and wheelbarrows, some flour & pork, all hid in the woods:) And the next morning the offi|cers being all ordered to meet together to consult about going to Vilboon's fort, and none amongst them being ac|quainted but the Aldens, who said the water in the river was very low, so that they could not yet up to the fort, and the prisoner Canton told the Commander, That what the Aldens said was true. So not being willing to make a Canada expedition, concluded it was not practicable to proceed. Then ordered some of the forces to get the great guns on board the open sloops, and the rest to range the woods for the enemy, who took one prisoner, and brought in: who in their ranging found there a shallop haled in a creek, and a day or two after there came in a young soldier to our forces, who upon examination gave an ac|count of two more which he left in the woods at some dis|tance; so immediately the Major with some of his forces went in pursuit of them, taking the said prisoner with

them, who conveyed them to the place where he left them, but they were gone. Then asked the prisoner, whether there were any Indians in those parts? Said No, it was as hard for Vilboon, their Governor, to get an In|dian down to the water side, as it was for him to carry one of those great guns upon his back to his fort: For they having had intelligence by a prisoner out of Boston gaol, that gave them an account of Major Church and his forces coming out against them. Now having with a great deal of pains and trouble got all the guns, shot, and other stores aboard, intended on our design which we came out first for, but the wind not serving, the Commander sent out his scouts into the woods, to seek for the enemy, and four of our Indians came upon three Frenchmen undisco|vered, who concluded that if the French should discover them, would fire at them, and might kill one or more of them, which to prevent fired at the French, killed one, and took the other two prisoners; and it happened that he who was killed was Shanelere, the chief man there, &c. The same day they mended their whale-boats, and the shallop which they took, fitting her to row with eight oars, that she might be helpful to their prosecuting their intended design against the enemy, in their returning homeward. Then the Commander ordering all the Of|ficers to come together, informed them of his intentions, and ordered that no vessels should depart from the fleet, but to attend the motions of their Commodore, as for|merly, except they were parted by storms, or thick fogs, and if so it should happen that any did part, when they come to Passamequady, should stop there a while, for there they intended to stop, and do business with the help of their boats against the enemy, and if they missed that, to stop at Machias; which was the next place he intended to stop at, having an account by the prisoners taken, That Mr. Lateril was there a trading with the Indians in that river. Encouraging them, said, He did not doubt

but to have a good booty there; and if they should pass those two places, be sure not to go past Naskege-point, but to stop there till he came, and not to depart thence in a fortnight without his orders, having great service to do in and about Penobscot, &c. Then the Major discours|ed with Captain Brackit, Captain Hunewell, and Captain Larking, (with their Lieutenants) Commanders of the forces belonging to the eastward parts, who were to dis|course their soldiers about their proceeding, when they came to Penobscot; and the Major himself was to dis|course his Indian soldiers, and their Captains; who with all the rest readily complied. The projection being such, That when they came to Penobscot, the Commander de|signed to take what provisions could be spared out of all the sloops, and put on board the two brigantines, and to send all the sloops home with some of the Officers and men that wanted to be at home: And then with those forces afore-mentioned (to wit) the eastward men, and all the Indians; and to take what provisions and ammu|nition was needful, and to march with himself up into the Penobscot country, in search for the enemy, and if pos|sible to take that fort in Penobscot river. Captain Brackit informing the Major, that when the water was low they could wade over, which was (at that time) the lowest that had been known in a long time: And being there, to range thro' that country down to Pemequid; where he in|tended the two brigantines should meet them; and from thence taking more provisions, (viz.) bread, falt and am|munition suitable (to send those two vessels home also) to travel thro' the country to Nerigiwack, and from thence to Ameras-cogen fort, and so down where the enemy used to plant, not doubting but that in all this travel to meet with many of the enemy before they should get to Pisca|taqua. All which intentions were very acceptable to the forces that were to undertake it, who rejoycing, said, They had rather go home by land than by water, provid|ed

their commander went with them; who, to try their fi|delity, said, He was grown ancient, and might fail them; they all said, they would not leave him, and when he could not travel any further, they would carry him. Having done what service they could at and about the mouth of St. John's river, resolved on their intended design; and the next morning having but little wind, came all to sail, the wind coming against them, they put into Mushquash|Cove, and the next day the wind still being against them, the Major with part of his forces landed, and imployed themselves in ranging the country for the enemy, but to no purpose; and in the night the wind came pretty fair, and at 12 o'clock they came to fail, and had not been out long before they spied three fail of vessels; expecting them to be French, fitted to defend themselves, so coming near, hailed them: Who found them to be a man of war, the Province-Galley, and old Mr. Alden in a sloop, with more forces, Col. Hathorne Commander. Major Church went aboard the Commodore, where Colonel Hathorne was, who gave him an account of his commission and orders, and read them to him. Then his Honor told Major Church, that there was a particular order on board Captain Southack for him, which is as followeth:

Boston, September 9th, 1696.

SIR,

HIS Majesty's ship Orford having lately surprised a French shallop, with twenty-three of the soldiers be|longing to the fort upon John's-river, in Nova-Sco|tia, together with Villeau, their Captain, Providence seems to encourage the forming of an expedition to attack that fort, and to disrest and remove the enemy from that post, which is the chief source from whence the most of our disasters do issue, and also to favour with an opportunity for gaining out of their hands the ordnance, artillery, and other warlike stores, and provisions, lately supplied to them from France, for erect|ing

a new fort near the river's mouth, whereby they will be greatly strengthened, and the reducing of them rendered more difficult. I have therefore ordered a detachment of two new companies, consisting of about an hundred men to join the forces now with you for that expedition, and have commissionated Lieutenant Colonel John Hathorne, one of the members of his Majesty's Council, who is acquainted with that river, and in whose courage and conduct I repose special trust, to take the chief command of the whole during that service, be|ing well assured that your good affections and zeal for his Ma|jesty's service will induce your ready compliance and assistance therein, which, I hope, will take up no long time, and be of great benefit and advantage to these his Majesty's territories, if it please God to succeed the same. Besides, it is very pro|bable to be the fairest opportunity, that can be offered unto yourself and men, of doing execution upon the Indian enemy and rebels, who may reasonably be expected to be drawn to the defence of that fort. I have also ordered his Majesty's ship Arundel, and the Province-G••••ley to attend this ser|vice.

Colonel Hathorne will communicate unto you the contents of his commission and instructions received from myself for this expedition, which I expect and order that yourself, Offi|cers and soldiers, now under you, yield obedience unto. He is to advise with yourself and others in all weighty attempts. Praying for a blessing from Heaven upon the said enterprize, and that all engaged in the same may be under the special protection of the Almighty; I am your loving friend,

WILLIAM STOUGHTON.

The Major having read his last orders, and considering his commission, found that he was obliged to attend All Orders, &c. was much concerned that he and his were pre|vented in their intended projection, if carried back to St. John's. Then discoursing with Colonel Hathorne, gave him an account of what they had done at St. John's, viz. That as to the demolishing the new f•••••• they had done it,

and got all their great guns and stores aboard their vessels; and that if it had not been that the waters were follow would have taken the fort up the river also before he came away: Told him also that one of the prisoners which he had taken at St. John's, upon examination, con|cerning the Indians in those parts, told him, it was as hard for Vilboon, their Governor, to get one of their Indians down to the water-side, as to carry one of those great guns upon his back; and that they had an account of him and his forces coming to those parts by a prisoners out of Boston gaol: Also told his honour, That if they went back it would wholly disappoint them of their doing any further service, which was that they came for to Penobscot, and places adjacent; but all was to no purpose, his Honor telling the Major that he must attend his orders then re|ceived. And to encourage the Officers and soldiers, told them, They should be wholly at the Major's ordering and command in the whole action: And to be short did go back; and the event may be seen in Colonel Hathorne's journal of the said action. Only I must observe one thing by the way, which was, That when they drew off to come down the river again, Colonel Hathorne came off and left the Major behind to see that all the forces were drawn off; and coming down the river, in or near the rear, in the night heard a person hallow, not knowing at first but it might be a snare to draw them into; but upon consider|ation sent to see who or what he was, found him to be as negro man belonging to Marblehead, that had been taken, and kept a prisoner amongst them for some time. The Major asked him, whether he could give any account of the Indians in those parts? He said yes, they were or had been all drawn off from the sea coast, up into the woods, near an hundred miles, having had an account by a pri|soner out of Boston gaol, that Major Church and his forces were coming out against them in four brigantines, and four sloops, with pettiaugers, meaning whale-boats,

which put them into a fright, that notwithstanding they were so far up in the woods, were afraid to make fires by day, left he and his forces should discover the smokes, and in the night left they should see the light. One thing more I would just give a hint of, that is, how the French in the eastward parts were much surprised at the motion of the whale-boats; said, There was no abiding for them in that country: And I have been informed since, that soon after this expedition, they drew off from St. John's fort and river. But to return, Then going all down the river, embarked and went homeward; only by the way, Candid Reader, I would let you know of two things that proved very prejudicial to Major Church and his forces: The first was, that the government should miss it so much as to send any prisoner away from Boston before the expe|dition was over. Secondly, That they should send Col. Hathorne to take them from the service and business they went to do: Who, with submission, doubtless thought they did for the best, tho' it proved to the contrary. So shall wind up with a just hint of what happened at their coming home to Boston. After all their hard service both night and day. the government took away all the great guns, and warlike stores, and gave them not a penny for them, (except it was some powder, and that they gave what they pleased for) and besides the assembly passed a vote that they should have but half pay; but his Honor the Lieutenant Governor being much disturbed at their so doing, went into the town house, where the Representa|tives were sitting, and told them, except they did re-as|sume that vote, which was to cut Major Church and his forces off their half-pay, they should sit there till the next spring. Whereupon it was re-assumed: So that they had just their bare wages. But as yet never had any allow|ance for the great guns and stores; neither has Major Church had any allowance for all his travel and great ex|pences in raising the said forces volunteers.

The 5th and last Expedition East.

IN the year 1703-4, Major Church had an account of the miserable devastations made on Deerfield, a town in the westward parts of this province, and the horrible bar|barities and cruelties exercised on those poor innocent people, by the French and Indians, especially of their cruelties towards that worthy Gentlewoman Mrs. Wil|liams, and several others, whom they marched in that ex|treme season; forcing them to carry great loads, and when any of them by their hard usage could not bare with it, were knock'd on the head, and so killed in cool blood. All which with some other horrible instances done by those barbarous savages, which Major Church himself was an eye-witness to in his former travel in the eastward parts, did much astonish him. To see a woman that those bar|barous savages had taken and killed, exposed in a most brutish manner (as can be express'd) with a young child seized fast with strings to her breast; which infant had no apparent wound, which doubtless was left alive to suck its dead mother's breast, and so miserably to perish and die: Also to see other poor children hanging upon fences dead, of either sex, in their own poor rags, not worth their stripping them of, in scorn and derision: Another in|stance was, of a straggling soldier, who was found at Casco, exposed in a shameful and barbarous manner; his body being staked up, his head cut off, and a hog's head set in the room, his body ripp'd up, and his heart and in|wards taken out, and private members cut off, and hung with bests of their own, the inwards at one side of his bo|dy, and his privates at the other, in scorn and derision of the English soldiers, &c. These and such like barbarities caused Major Church to express himself to this purpose,

That if he were Commander in Chief of these provinces, he would soon put an end to those barbarities done by the barbarous enemy, by making it his whole business to fight and destroy those savages, as they did our poor neigh|bours; which doubtless might have been done if rightly managed, and that in a short time, &c. So that these, with the late inhumanities done upon the inhabitants of Deerfield, made such an impression on his heart as can not well be expressed; so that his blood boiled within him, making such impulses on his mind, that he forgot all for|mer treatments, which were enough to hinder any man, especially the said Major Church, from doing any further service. Notwithstanding all which, having a mind to take some satisfaction on the enemy, his heart being full: Took his horse and went from his own habitation, near 70 miles, to wait upon his Excellency, and offered his service to the Queen, his Excellency and the country; which his Excellency readily accepted of, and desired Major Church to draw a scheme for the ensuing action, or actions; so taking leave went home, and drew it; which is as followeth.

Tiverton,February 5, 1703-4.

May it please your Excellency,

ACCORDING to your request, when I was last with yourself; and in obedience thereunto, I present you with these following lines, that concern the prepa|ration for next spring's expedition, to attack the enemy. Ac|cording to my former direction, for it is good to have a full stroke at them first, before they have opportunity to run for it; for the first of our action will be our opportunity to destroy them, and to prevent their running away, in way-laying eve|ry passage; and make them know we are in good earnest, and so we being in a diligent use of means, we may hope for a blessing from the Almighty, and that He will be pleased to put a dread in their hearts, that they may fall before us and perish: For my advice is,

1st, That ten or twelve hundred good able soldiers, well equipped, be in a readiness fit for action, by the first of April at farthest, for then will be the time to be upon action.

2dly, That five and forty, or fifty good whale-boats be had ready, well fitted, with five good oars, and twelve or fifteen good paddles to every boat: And upon the wale of each boat five pieces of strong leather be fastened on each side, to slip five small ash bars thro', that so, whenever they land, the men may step overboard, and slip in said bars a-cross, and take up said boat, that she may not be hurt against the rocks: And that two suitable brass kettles be provided to belong to each boat, to dress the men's victuals in, to make their lives comfortable.

3dly, That four or five hundred pair of good Indian shoes be made ready, fit for the service, for the English and In|dians, that must improve the whale-boats, and birch canoes, for they will be very proper, and safe for that service; and let there be a good store of cow-bides, well tanned, for a sup|ply of such shoes; and hemp to make thread, and wax, to mend and make more such shoes when wanted, and a good store of awls.

4thly, That there be an hundred large hatchets, or light axes, made pretty broad, and steeled with the best steel that can be got, and made by workmen, that may cut very well, and bold, that the hemlock knots may not break or turn them, to widen the landing place up the falls, for it may happen that we may get up, with some of our whale-boats, to their falls or head-quarters.

5thly, That there be a suitable quantity of small bags, or wallets provided, that every man that wants may have one, to put up his bullets in, of such a size as will fit his gun, (and not be served as at Casco.) That every man's bag be so marked that he may not change it: For if so, it will make a great confusion in action; that every man's store of ball be weighed to him, that so he may be accountable, and may not squander it away, and also his store of powder, that so

he may try his powder and gun before action. And that eve|ry particular company may have a barrel of powder to them|selves, and so marked that it may by no means be changed; that men may know beforehand, and may not be cheated out of their lives, by having bad powder; or not knowing how to use it: And this will prove a great advantage to the ac|tion.

6thly, That Col. John Gorham, if he may be prevailed with, may be concerned in the management of the whale-boats, he having been formerly concerned in the eastern parts, and experienced in that affair. And whale-men then will be very serviceable in this expedition, which having a promise made to them, that they shall be released in good season, to go home a whaling in the fall, your Excellency will have men enough.

7thly, That there may be raised for this service three hundred Indians at least, and more if they may be had; for I know certainly of my own knowledge, that they exceed most of our English in hunting and skulking in the woods, being always used to it; and it must be practised if ever we intend to destroy those Indian enemies.

8thly, That the soldiers already out eastward in the ser|vice, men of known judgment, may take a survey of them and their arms; and see if their arms he good, and that they know how to use them, in shooting right at a mark; and that they be men of good reason and sense, to know how to manage themselves in so difficult a piece of service, as this Indian hunting is; for bad men are but a clogg and hindrance to an army, being a trouble and vexation to good Commanders, and so many months to devour the country's provision, and a hin|drance to all good action.

9thly, That special care be had in taking up the whale|boats, that they be good and fit for that service; so that the country be not cheated, as formerly, in having rotten boats; and as much care that the owners may have good satisfaction for them.

10thly, That the tenders or transports, vessels to be im|proved

in this action, be good decked vessels, not too big, be|cause of going up several rivers; having four or six small guns a piece for defence, and the fewer men will defend them: And there are enough such vessels to be had.

11thly, To conclude all, If your Excellency will be pleas|ed to make yourself great, and us a happy people, as to the de|stroying of our enemies, and easing of our taxes, &c. be pleased to draw forth all those forces now in pay in all the eastward parts, both at Saco and Casco-Bay; for those two trading|houses never did any good, nor ever will, and are not wor|thy the name of Queen's forts; and the first building of them had no other effect, but to lay us under tribute to that wretched pagan ••••ew; and I hope will never be wanted, for that they were first built for: But sure it is, they are very serviceable to them, for they get many a good advan|tage of us to destroy our men, and laugh at us for our folly, that we should be at so much cost and trouble to do a thing that does us so much harm, and no manner of good: But to the contrary, when they see all our forces drawn forth, and in the pursuit of them, they will think that we begin to be rouzed up, and to be awake, and will not be satisfied with what they have pleased to leave us, but are resolved to re|take from them, that they took formerly from us, and drive them out of their country also. The which being done, then to build a fort at a suitable time, and in a convenient place; and it will be very honorable to your Excellency, and of great service to her Majesty, and to the enlargement of her Ma|jesty's government: (The place meant being at Port-Royal.)

12thly, That the objection made against drawing off the forces in the eastward parts will be no damage to the inhabi|tants; for former experience teacheth us, that so soon as drawn into their country, they will presently forsake ours to take care of their own: And that there be no failure in making preparation of these things aforementioned, for many times the want of small things prevents the completing of great actions; and that every thing be in readiness before

the forces be raised, to prevent charges; and the enemy hav|ing intelligence: And that the General Court be moved to make suitable acts, for the encouraging both English and Indians; that so men of business may freely offer estates and concerns to serve the publick.

Thus hoping what I have taken the pains to write in the sincerity of my heart and good affection, will be well accepted; I make hold to subscribe, as I am, your Excellency's most de|voted humble servant,

Benjamin Church.

Then returning to his Excellency presented the said scheme, which his Excellency approved of; and return'd it again to Maj. Church, and desired him to see that eve|ry thing was provided, telling him that he should have an order from the Commissary General to proceed. Then returned home and made it his whole business to provide oars and paddles, and a vessel to carry them round; and then returned again to his Excellency, who gave him a commission: Which is as followeth.

JOSEPH DUDLEY, Esq Captain General and Gover|nor in Chief in and over Her Majesty's Provinces of the Massachusetts-Bay and New Hampshire, in New-Eng|land, in America, and Vice-Admiral of the same.

To Benjamin Church, Esq Greeting.

BY virtue of the power and authority, in and by her Majesty's Royal commission, to me granted, I do by these presents, reposing special trust and confi|dence in your loyalty, courage, and good conduct, con|stitute and appoint you to be Colonel of all the forces raised, and to be raised for her Majesty's service, against the French and Indian enemy and rebels, that shall be improved in the service to the eastward of Casco-Bay; and to be Captain of the first company of the said forces. You are therefore carefully and diligently to perform the duty of a Colonel and Captain, by leading, ordering and exercising the said regiment and company in arms,

both inferior Officers and soldiers; and to keep them in good order and discipline. Hereby commanding them to obey you as their Colonel and Captain; and with them to do and execute all acts of hostility against the said enemy and rebels. And you are to observe and follow such orders and directions as you shall receive from myself, or other your superior Officer, according to the rules and discipline of war, pursuant to the trust repos|ed in you. Given under my hand and feal at arms, at Boston, the 18th day of March, in the third year of her Majesty's reign. Anno Dom. 1703-4.

J. DUDLEY.

By his Excellency's command, Isaac Addington, Secr.

Colonel Church no sooner received his commission, but proceeded to the raising of men volunteers, by going into every town within the three counties, which were for|merly Plymouth government; advising with the chief Officer of each company, to call his company together, that so he might have the better opportunity to discourse and encourage them to serve their Queen and country; treating them with drink convenient; told them he did not doubt but with God's blessing to bring them all home again: All which, with many other arguments, animated their hearts to do service, so that Colonel Church enlisted out of some companies near twenty men, and others fif|teen. He having raised a sufficient number of English soldiers, proceeded to the enlisting of Indians in all those parts where they dwelt, which was a great fatigue and expence; being a people that need much treating, espe|cially with drink, &c. Having enlisted the most of his soldiers in those parts, who daily lay upon him; was not less than 5 l. per day expences, some days, in victuals and drink; who doubtless thought (especially the Eng|lish) that the country would have reimbursed it again, otherwise they would hardly accepted it of him. Col.

Church's soldiers both English and Indians in those parts being raised, marched them all down to Nantasket, ac|cording to his Excellency's directions; where being come, the following Gentlemen were commissionated to be Commanders of each particular company, viz. Lieut. Col. Gorham, Captains John Brown, Constant Church, James Cole, John Dyer, John Cook, Caleb Williamson and Edward Church, of the forces raised by Col. Church, each company being filled up with English and Indians as they agreed among themselves, and by the Colonel's direc|tions; Captain Lamb, and Captain Mirick's company, who were raised by his Excellency's direction, were or|dered to join those aforesaid, under the command of Col. Church. Matters being brought thus far on, Colonel Church waited upon his Excellency at Boston to know his pleasure, what further measures were to be taken; and did humbly move that they might have liberty in then instructions to make an attack upon Port-Royal: Being very well satisfied in his opinion, that with the blessing of God, with what forces they had or should have; and whale-boats so well fitted with oars and paddles, as they had with them, might be sufficient to have taken it. His Excellency (looking upon Colonel Church) replied, He could not admit of that, by reason he had by the advice of her Majesty's Council, writ to her Majesty about the taking of Port-Royal fort, and how it should be disposed of when taken, &c. However Colonel Church proceed|ing to get every thing ready for the forces down at Nan|tasket, which was the place of parade: He happening one day to be at Captain Belcher's, where his Excellency happened to come; who was pleased to order Col. Church to put on his sword, and walk with him up the common; which he readily complied with: Where being come he saw two mortar pieces with shells, and an ingineer trying with them, to throw a shell from them to any spot of ground where he said it should fall: Which, when Col.

Church had seen done, gave him great encouragement and hopes that it would promote their going to Port-Royal, which he had solicited for; and returning from thence, after they had seen them tried, by the said engineer, and performing what was proposed: Coming near to Capt. William Clark's house, over against the horse-shoe, his Ex|cellency was invited by Captain Clark to walk over and take a glass of wine; which he was pleased to accept of, and took Col. Church with him; and in the time they were taking a glass of wine, Col. Church once more pre|sumed to say to his Excellency; Sir, I hope that now we shall go to Port-Royal in order to take it; those mortars being very suitable for such an enterprise. His Excellen|cy was pleased to reply; Col. Church you must say no more of that matter, for the letter I told you of I writ by the advice of her Majesty's Council, now lies at home on the board before the Lords Commissioners of her Maje|sty's foreign plantations, &c. After some days every thing being ready to embark, Col. Church received his instruc|tions: Which are as followeth.

By his Excellency JOSEPH DUDLEY, Esq Cap|tain-General and Governor in Chief, in and over her Ma|jesty's Province of the Massachusetts-Bay, &c. in New-England, and Vice-Admiral of the same.

INSTRUCTIONS for Colonel BENJAMIN CHURCH, in the present Expedition.

IN pursuance of the Commission given you to take the chief command of the land and sea forces by me raised, equipped and set forth on her Majesty's service, against her open declared enemies the French and Indian rebels: You are to observe the following instructions.

First, you are to take care, That the duties of re|ligion be attended on board the several vessels, and in the several companies under your command, by daily prayers unto God, and reading his holy word: And

that the Lord's-Day be observed and duly sanctified to the utmost of your power, as far as the circumstances and necessity of the service can admit, that so you may have the presence of God with, and obtain his blessing on, your undertaking.

You are to take care, That your soldiers have their due allowance of provisions and other necessaries; that their arms be well fixed, and kept fit for service, and that they be furnished with a suitable quantity of powder and ball, and be always in readiness to pass upon duty.

That good order and discipline be maintained; and all disorders, drunkenness, profane swearing, cursing, omission or neglect of duty, disobedience to Officers, mutiny, desertion, and sedition be duly punished ac|cording to the rules and articles of war; the which you are once a month, or oftener, to cause to be published, and made known to your Officers and soldiers for their observance and direction in their duty. Let notorious and capital offenders be sent away to the next garrisons, there to be imprisoned until they can be proceeded with.

Let the sick and wounded be carefully looked after, and accommodated after the best manner your circum|stances will admit of, and be sent either to Casco-Fort, or to Mr. Peperel's at Kittery, which may be easiest, so soon as you can.

You are forthwith to send away the forces and stores by the transports, with the whale-boats to Piscataqua, on Kittery side, there to attend your coming; whither you are to follow them with all expedition.

You are to embark in the Province-Galley, Captain Southack Commander, and let Lieutenant Colonel Gor|ham go on board Captain Gallop; who are both directed to attend your motion on the French side, after which they are to return. Let the Commanders of all the

store sloops and transports know that they fail, anchor and serve at your direction.

When you fail from Piscataqua, keep at such distance off the shore, that you be not observed by the enemy to alarm them. Stop at Montinicus, and there embark the forces in the whale boats for the main, to range-that part of the country, in search of the enemy, to Mount Desart, sending the vessels to meet you there; and after having refreshed and recruited your soldiers, proceed to Machias, and from thence to Passamequado; and hav|ing effected what spoils you possibly may upon the ene|my in those parts, embark on your vessels for Menis and Signecto; to Port-Royal Gut; and use all possible me|thods for the burning and destroying of the enemies houses, and breaking the dams of their co••n grounds in the said several places, and make what other spoils you can upon them, and bring away the prisoners. In your return call at Penobscot, and do what you can there; and so proceed westward.

This will probably imploy you a month, or six weeks; when you will draw together again, and by the latter end of June consider whether you can march to Norrig|wack, or other parts of their planting, to destroy their corn and settlements, and keep the expedition on foot until the middle of August next.

Notwithstanding the particularity of the aforegoing instruction, I lay you under no restraint, because I am well assured of your courage, care, caution and indu|stry; but refer you to your own resolves, by the advice of your Commission Officers, not under the degree of Cap|tains, and the sea Commission Captains (whom you will, as often as you can, advise with) according to the in|telligence you may receive, or as you may find needful upon the spot.

You are by every opportunity, and once a week cer|tainly, by some means, either by way of Casco, Pisca|taqua,

or otherwise to acquaint me of your proceedings and all occurrences, and what may be further necessary for the service: And to observe such further and other instructions as you shall receive from myself.

As often as you may, advise with Captain Smith and Captain Rogers, Commanders of her Majesty's ships.

Let your Minister, Commissary and Surgeons be treated with just respects. I pray to God to preserve, prosper and succeed you.

Given under my hand at Boston, the fourth day of May, 1704.

J. DUDLEY.

Pursuant to his instructions he sent away his transports and forces to Piscataqua, but was obliged himself to wait upon his Excellency by land to Piscataqua, in order to raise more forces in the way thither; and did raise a com|pany under the command of Captain Harridon; taking care also to provide a pilot for them in the Bay of Fundy; Colonel Church being directed to one—Fellows, whom he met with at Ipswich. And going from thence to Piscataqua with his Excellency, was there met by that worthy Gentleman Major Winthrop Hilton, who was very helpful to him in the whole expedition, whose name and memory ought not to be forgot. Being ready to embark from Piscataqua, Colonel Church requested the Com|manders of her Majesty's ships, Captain Smith and Capt. Rogers to tarry at Piscataqua a fortnight, that so they might not be discovered by the enemy before he had done some spoil upon them. Then moving in their transports, as directed, got safe into Montinicus, undiscovered by the enemy. Next morning early fitted out two whale-boats with men, Captain John Cooke in one, and Captain Con|stant Church in the other; and sent them to Green-Island, upon a discovery; and coming there they parted, one went to one part, and the other to the other part, that so they might not miss of what could be discovered; where they met with old Lasaure with his two sons Tho|mas

and Timothy, and a Canada Indian. The enemy see|ing that they were discovered, threw down their ducks and eggs, who had got a considerable quantity of each, and ran to their canoes, getting into them, stood directly for the Main; looking behind them, perceived the whale-boats to gain so fast upon them, clapt side by side, and all four got into one canoe, which proved of little advantage to them, for the whale-boats gained so much upon them, and got so near that Capt. Cook, firing at the steer's man, which was the Indian, and happened to graze his skull, and quite spoiled his paddling: Upon which old Lasaure and sons, seeing their companion's condition, soon begged for quarter, and had it granted: The two Cap|tains with their success presently returned to their Com|mander, taking care that their captives should not dis|course together before they were examined; when bro't to Colonel Church, he ordered them to be apart, and first proceeded to examine old Lasaure, whom he found to be very surly and cross, so that he could gain no man|ner of intelligence by him; upon which the Commander was resolved to put in practice what he had formerly done at Senecto; ordering the Indians to make two large heaps of dry wood, at some distance one from the other, and to set a large stake in the ground, close to each heap; then ordered the two sons, Thomas and Timothy, to be bro't, and to be bound to the stakes; also ordering his Indians to paint themselves with colours, which they had bro't for that use. Then the Colonel proceeded to examine first Timothy; and told him, He had examined his father al|ready; and that if he told him the truth he would save his life, and take him into his service; and that he should have good pay and live well. He answered, That he would tell him the truth; and gave him an account of every thing he knew; which was all minuted down: He being asked whether his brother Thomas did not know more than he? His answer was, Yes, for his Brother

Thomas had a commission sent him from the Governor of Canada, to command a company of Indians, who were gathered together at a place where some French Gentle|men lately arrived from Canada, who were Officers to command the rest that were to go westward to fight the English, and that there was sent to his father and brother Tom, a considerable quantity of flower, fruit, ammuni|tion and stores, for the supply of the said army. He be|ing asked, Whether he could pilot our forces to them? Said No: But his brother Tom could, for he had hid it, and that he was not then with him. The Colonel asked him, What Gentlemen those were that came from Canada? He answered Monsieur Gourdan, and Mr. Sharkee. Being asked where they were? Answered at Passamequado; build|ing a fort there. Being also asked, What number of In|dians and French there were at Penobscot? He answered, There were several families, but they lived scattering. Asked him further, If he would pilot our forces thither? Answered, He would if the Commander would not let the savages roast him. Upon which the Colonel ordered him to be loosed from the stake, and took him by the hand, told him, He would be as kind to him as his own father; at which he seemed to be very thankful. And then the Colonel proceeded to examine his brother Tom, and told him that he had examined his father and brother and that his brother had told him every title he knew, and that he knew more than his brother Timothy did; and that if he would be ingenuous and confess all he knew, he should fare as well as his brother; but if not, the savages should roast him. Whereupon he solemnly promised that he would, and that he would pilot him to every thing he knew, to the value of a knife and sheath (which without doubt he did.) Then the Colonel immediately gave or|ders for the whale-boats to be ready, and went directly over where the said goods and stores were, and found them as informed, took them on board the boats, and

returned to their transports; and ordering provisions to be put into every man's snapsack for 6 or 8 days; so in the dusk of the evening left their transports, with orders how they should act; and went directly for the main land of Penobscot, and mouth of that river, with their pilots Tom and Timothy, who carried them directly to every place and habitation, both of French and Indians there|abouts, with the assistance of one De Young, whom they carried out of Boston goal for the same purpose, who was very serviceable to them. Being there we killed and took every one, both French and Indians, not knowing that any one did escape in all Penobscot; among those that were taken was St. Casteen's daughter, who said that her husband was gone to France, to her father Monsieur Cas|teen. She having her children with her, the Commander was very kind to her and them. All the prisoners that were then taken, held to one story in general, which they had from Lafaure's sons; that there were no more In|dians thereabouts, but enough of them at Passamequado; upon which they soon returned to their transports with their prisoners and plunder. The Commander giving order immediately for the soldiers in the whale-boats to have a recruit of provisions for a further pursuit of the enemy, giving orders to the transports to stay a few days more there, and then go to Mount-Desart (and there to stay for her Majesty's ships, who were directed to come thither) and there to wait his further order. Then Col. Church with his forces immediately embarked on board their whale-boats, and proceeded to scour the coast, and to try if they could discover any of the enemy coming from Passamequado; making their stops in the day-time at all the points and places where they were certain the enemy would land, or come by with their canoes, and at night to their paddles. Then coming near where the ves|sels were ordered to come, having made no discovery of the enemy went directly to Mount-Desart, where the

transports were just come; and taking some provisions for his soldiers, gave direction for the ships and transports in six days to come directly to Passamequado, where they should find him and his forces. Then immediately moved away in the whale-boats, and made diligent search along shore, as formerly, inspecting all places where the ene|my was likely to lurk: Particularly at Machias; but found neither fires nor tracks. Coming afterwards to the west harbour at Passamequado, where they entered upon action; an account whereof Colonel Church did com|municate to his Excellency, being as followeth:

May it please your Excellency,

I Received yours of this instant, October 9th, with the two inclosed informations, that concern my actions at Passamequado; which I will give a just and true ac|count of as near as possibly I can, (viz.) on the 7th of June last, 1704. In the evening we entered in at the westward harbour at said Passamequado; coming up said harbour to an island, where landing, we came to a French house, and too a French woman and children, the woman upon her examination said, her husband was abroad a fishing. I asked her, whether there were any Indians thereabouts? She said, Yes: There were a great many, and several on that island. I asked her, whether she could pilot me to them? Said, No: They hid in the woods. I asked her, when she saw them? Answered, just now, or a little while since. I asked her whether she knew where they had laid the canoes? She answered, No: They carried their canoes into the woods with them. We then hastened away along shore, seizing what prisoners we could, taking old Lotriel and his family.

This intelligence caused me to leave Col. Gorham, and a considerable part of my men, and boats, with him at that Island, partly to guard and secure those prisoners, being sensible it would be a great trouble to

have them to secure and guard at our next landing, where I did really expect, and hoped to have an op|portunity, to fight our Indian enemies; for all our French prisoners that we had taken at Penobscot, and along shore, had informed us, That when we came to the place where these Canada gentlemen lived, we should certainly meet with the Savages to fight us, those being the only men that set the Indians against us, or upon us, and were newly come from Canada, to manage the war against us, (pleading in this account and information their own innocency) and partly in hopes that he, the said Col. Gorham, would have a good opportunity in the morn|ing to destroy some of those our enemies, (we were inform|ed by the said French woman as above) with the use of his boats, as I had given direction: Ordering also Maj. Hilton to pass over to the next Island, that lay East of us, with a small party of men and boats, to surprise and destroy any of the enemy that in their canoes might go here and there, from any place, to make their flight from us, and, as he had opportunity, to take any French prisoners. We then immediately moved up the river, in the dark night, through great difficulty, by reason of the eddies and whirlpools, made with the fierceness of the current. And here it may be hinted, that we had information that Lotriel had lost part of his family passing over to the next island, falling into one of those eddies were drowned; which the two pilots told to discourage me: But I said nothing of that na|ture shall do it; for I was resolved to venture up, and therefore forthwith paddling our boats as privately as we could, and with as much expedition as we could make with our paddles, and the help of a strong tide, we came up to Monsieur Gourdan's a little before day; where taking notice of the shore, and finding it some|what open and clear, I ordered Capt. Mirick and Capt. Cole, having English companies, to tarry with several of

the boats to be ready, that if any of the enemy should come down out of the brush into the bay, (it being very broad in that place) with their canoes, they might take and destroy them: Ordering the remainder of the army being landed, with myself and the other officers, to march up into the woods, with a wide front, and to keep at a considerable distance; for that if they should run in heaps the enemy would have the greater advantage: And further directing them that, if possible, they should destroy the enemy with their hatchets, and not fire a gun. This order I always gave at landing, telling them the inconveniency of firing, in that it might be, first, dangerous to themselves, they being many of them young soldiers, (as I had some time observed, that one or two guns being fired, many others would fire, at they knew not what; as happened presently after) and it would alarm the enemy, and give them the opportuni|ty to make their escape; and it might alarm the whole country, and also prevent all further action from taking effect. Orders being thus passed, we moved directly towards the woods, Le Faver's son directing us to a lit|tle hut or wigwam, which we immediately surrounded with a few men, the rest marching directly up into the woods, to see what wigwams or huts they could disco|ver; myself made a little stop, ordering the pilot to tell them in the hut, that they were surrounded with an ar|my, and that if they would come forth, and surrender themselves, they should have good quarter, but if not, they should all be knock'd on the head and die: One of them showed himself; I asked who he was? He said, Gourdan; and begg'd for quarter: I told him, he should have good quarter; adding further, That if there were any more in the house, they should come out: Then came out two men; Gourdan said they were his sons, and asked quarter for them, which was also granted—Then came out a woman and a little boy; she fell up|on

her knees, begg'd quarter for herself and children, and that I would not suffer the Indians to kill them. I told them they should have good quarter, and not be hurt. After which I ordered a small guard over them, and so moved presently up with the rest of my company, after them that were gone before, but looking on my right hand, over a little run, I saw something look black just by me, stopped, and heard a talking, stepped over, and saw a little hut or wigwam, with a crowd of people round about it, which was contrary to my former direc|tions: Ask'd them what they were doing? They re|ply'd, There were some of the enemy in a house, and would not come out: I ask'd, what house? They said, A bark house. I hastily bid them pull it down, and knock them on the head, never asking whether they were French or Indians; they being all enemies alike to me. And passing then to them, and seeing them in great disorder, so many of the army in a crowd together, acting to contrary to my command and direction, expo|sing themselves, and the whole army, to utter ruin, by their so disorderly crowding thick together; had an e|nemy come upon them in that interim, and fired a vol|ley amongst them, they could not have miss'd a shot; and wholly neglecting their duty, in not attending my or|ders, in searching diligently for our lurking enemies in their wigwams, or by their fires, where I had great hopes, and real expectations to meet with them.

I most certainly know that I was in an exceeding great passion, but not with those poor miserable ene|mies; for I took no notice of half a dozen of the ene|my, when at the same time, I expected to be engaged with some hundreds of them, of whom we had a conti|nued account, who were expected from Port Royal side, In this heat of action, every word that I then spoke, I cannot give an account of, and I presume it is im|possible. I stopped but little here, but went directly

up into the woods, hoping to be better employed, with the rest of the army: I listened to hear, and looked earnestly to see what might be the next action; but meeting with many of the soldiers, they told me they had discovered nothing; we fetching a small compass round, came down again. It being pretty dark, I took notice, I saw two men lay dead, as I thought, at the end of the house, where the door was, and immediate|ly the guns went off, and they fired every man, as I thought, and most towards that place where I left the guard with Monsieur Gourdan. I had much ado to stop their firing, and told them, I thought they were mad, and I believed they had not killed and wounded less than forty or fifty of our own men. And I asked them what they shot at? They answered, At a Frenchman that ran away: But to admiration no man was killed, but he, and one of our men wounded in the leg; and I turning about, a Frenchman spoke to me, and I gave him quar|ter. Day-light coming on, and no discovery made of the enemy, I went to the place where I had left Mon|sieur Gourdan, to examine him, and his sons, who a|greed in their examinations; told me two of their men were abroad. It proved a damage; and further told me, That Monsieur Sharkee lived several leagues up at the head of the river, at the falls, and all the In|dians were fishing, and tending their corn there; and that Monsieur Sharkee had sent down to him, to come up to him, to advise about the Indian army, that was to go westward; but he had returned him answer, his business was urgent, and he could not come up: And that Sharkee, and the Indians would certainly be down that day, or the next at the furthest, to come to conclude of that matter. This was a short night's ac|tion, and all sensible men do well know, that actions done in the dark (being in the night as aforesaid) un|der so many difficulties, as we then laboured under, as

before related, was a very hard task for one man, mat|ters being circumstances as in this action; which would not admit of calling a council, and at that time could not be confined thereunto; at which time I was trans|ported above fear, or any sort of dread; yet being sen|sible of the danger in my armies crowding so thick to|gether, and of the great duty incumbent on me, to pre|serve them from all the danger I possibly could, for further improvement, in the destruction of our impla|cable enemies; am ready to conclude, that I was very quick and absolute in giving such commands and or|ders, as I then apprehended most proper and advanta|geous. And had it not been for the intelligence I had received from the French we took at Penobscot, as be|fore hinted, and the false report the French woman (first took) gave me, I had not been in such haste. I ques|tion not but those Frenchmen that were slain, had the same good quarter of other prisoners. Let I ever look'd on it a good providence of Almighty God, that some few of our cruel and bloody enemies wre made sen|sible of their bloody cruelties, perpetrated on my dear and loving friends and countrymen; and that the same measure (in part) meeted to them, as they had been guilty of in a barbarous manner at Deerfield, and I hope justly. I hope God Almighty will accept hereof, al|though it may not be eligible to our French implacable enemies, and such others as are not our friends. The foregoing journal, and this short annexment, I thought it my duty to exhibit, for the satisfaction of my friends and countrymen, whom I very faithfully and willingly served in the late expedition; and I hope will find ac|ceptance with your Excellency, the honorable Coun|cil and Representatives now assembled, as being done from the zeal I had in the said service of her Majesty, and her good subjects here.

I remain your most humble and obedient Servant, BENJAMIN CHURCH.

This night's service being over, immediately Colonel Church leaves a sufficient guard with Gourdan, and the other prisoners, moved in some whale-boats with the rest, and as they were going spied a small thing upon the wa|ter, at a great distance, which proved to be a birch ca|noe, with two Indians in her; the Colonel presently or|dered the lightest boat he had to make the best of her way, and cut them off from the shore; but the Indians perceiving their design, run their canoe ashore and fled. Colonel Church fearing they would run directly to Shar|kee, made all the expedition imaginable; but it being ebb and the water low, was obliged to land, and make the best of their way through the woods, hoping to intercept the Indians, and get to Sharkee's house before them; which was two miles from where our forces landed. The Colonel being ancient and unwildy, desired Serjeant Edee to run with him, and coming to several trees fallen, which he could not creep under, or readily get over, would lay his breast against the tree, the said Edee turning him over, generally had cat-luck, falling on his feet, by which means kept in the front; and coming near to Sharkee's house, discovered some French and Indians making a wear in the river, and presently discovered the two Indians aforementioned, who called to them at work in the river; told them there was an army of English and Indians just by; who immediately left their work and ran, endeavour|ing to get to Sharkee's house; who, hearing the noise, took his Lady and child, and ran into the woods. Our men running briskly fired and killed one of the Indians, and took the rest prisoners. Then going to Sharkee's house found a woman and child, to whom they gave good quar|ter: And finding that Madam Sharkee had left her silk clothes and fine linen behind her, our forces were desirous to have pursued and taken her; but Colonel Church for|bad them, saying he would have her run and suffer, that she might be made sensible, what hardships our poor people

had suffered by them, &c. Then proceeded to examine the prisoners newly taken, who gave him the same ac|count he had before, of the Indians being up at the falls, &c. It being just night prevented our attacking of them that night. But next morning early they moved up to the falls (which was about a mile higher:) But doubtless the enemy had some intelligence by the two aforesaid Indians, before our forces came, so that they all got on the other side of the river, and left some of their goods by the wa|ter-side, to decoy our men, that so they might fire upon them; which indeed they effected: But through the good Providence of God never a man of ours was killed, and but one slightly wounded. After a short dispute Colonel Church ordered that every man might take what they pleased of the fish which lay bundled up, and to burn the rest, which was a great quantity. The enemy seeing what our forces were about, and that their stock of fish was destroyed, and the season being over for getting any more, set up a hideous cry, and so ran all away into the woods; who being all on the other side of the river, ours could not follow them. Having done, our forces marched down to their boats at Sharkee's, and took their prisoners, beaver, and other plunder which they had got, and put it into their boats, and went down to Gourdan's house, where they had left Lieutenant Colonel Gorham, and Major Hilton, with part of the forces to guard the Prisoners, (and kept a good look-out for more of the enemy) who, upon the Colonel's return, gave him an account that they had made no discovery of the enemy since he left them, &c. Just then her Majesty's ships and transports arriving: The Commanders of her Ma|jesty's ships told Colonel Church that they had orders to go directly for Port-Royal Gut, and wait the coming of some store-ships, which were expected at Port-Royal from France; and Colonel Church advising with them, pro|posed that it was very expedient and serviceable to the

Crown, that Captain Southack in the Province Galley should accompany them, which they did readily acquiesce with him in. Upon which the Colonel immediately em|barked his forces on board the transports, and himself on board Captain Jarvis; ordering the Commissary of the stores, the minister, surgeons and pilots all to embark on board the same vessel with him; ordering all the whale|boats to be put on board the transports, and then to come to fail. The ships standing away for Port-Royal Gut, and Colonel Church with the transports for Menis. In their way the Colonel inquired of their pilot—Fellows, what depth of water there was in the creek, near the town of Menis? He answered him that there was water e|nough near the town to float that vessel they were in al|low water. So when coming near, Colonel Church ob|served a woody island between them and the town, that they run up on the back side of the said island, with all their transports undiscovered to the enemy, and came to anchor. Then the Colonel and all his forces embarked in the whale-boats, it being late in the day, moved di|rectly for the town, and in the way asked for the pilot, whom he expected was in one of the boats; but he had given him the slip, and tarried behind. The Colonel not knowing the difficulties that might attend their going up to the town; immediately sent Lieutenant Giles, who could speak French, with a flag of truce up to the town, with a summons, which was wrote before they landed, expecting their surrender: Which is as followeth:

Aboard Her Majesty's Ship Adventure, near the Gut of Menis, June 20, 1704.

An agreement made by the Field Officers commanding Her Majesty's forces for the present expedition against the French enemies, and Indian rebel.

AGREED,

THAT a declaration or summons be sent on shore at Me|nis and Port-Royal, under a flag of truce.

Particularly,

We do declare to you, the many cruelties and barbarities that you and the Indians have been guilty of towards us, in laying waste our country here in the East, at Casco, and the places adjacent: Particularly, the horrid action at Deer|field, this last winter, in killing, massacreing, murdering and scalping, without giving any notice at all, or opportunity to ask quarter at your hands; and, after all, carrying the re|mainder into captivity in the height of winter, (of which they kill'd many in the journey) and exposed the rest to the hardships of cold & famine, worse than death itself: Which cruelties we are yet every day exposed unto, and exercised with.

We do also declare, That we have already made some be|ginnings of killing and scalping some Canada men, (which we have not been wont to do or allow) and are now come with a great number of English and Indians, all volunteers, with resolutions to subdue you, and make you sensible of your cruelties to us, by treating you after the same manner.

At this time we expect our men of war and transport ships to be at Port-Royal. (We having but lately parted with them.)

In the last place, We do declare to you, That inasmuch as some of you have shewn kindness to our captives, and ex|press'd a love to, and desire of being under the English govern|ment, We do therefore, notwithstanding all this, give you timely notice, and do demand a surrender immediately, by the laying down your arms, upon which we promise very good quarter; if not, you must expect the utmost severity.

Benjamin Church, Col. John Gorham. Lt. Col. Winthrop Hilton, Maj.

To the Chief Commander of the town of Menis, and the inhabitants thereof, & we ex|pect your answer positively, within an hour.

Then moving to the creek, expecting to have had

water enough for the boats, as the pilot had informed them, but found not water enough for a canoe; so were obliged to land, intending to have been up at the town before the hour was out, that the summons expressed: (For their return was, That if our forces would not hure their estates, then they would surrender, if otherwise in|tended, they should fight for them, &c.) But meeting with several creeks near 20 or 30 feet deep, which were very muddy and dirty, so that the army could not get o|ver them, was obliged to return to their boats again, and wait till within night before the tide served them to go up to the town; and then intended to go up pretty near the town, and not to fall to till morning, being in hopes that the banks of the creeks would shelter them from the ene|my; but the tides rising so high exposed them all to the enemy, who had the trees and woods to befriend them:—And so came down in the night and fired smartly at our forces; but Col. Church being in a Pinnace that had a small cannon placed in the head, ordered it to be charged several times, with bullets in small bags, and fired at the enemy which made such a rattling amongst the trees, that caused the enemy to draw off; and by the great provi|dence of Almighty God, not one of our forces was hurt that night; (but, as I have been informed, they had one Indian killed, and some others wounded, which was some discouragement to the enemy.) Next morning, by break of day, Col. Church ordered all his forces (and placed Maj. Hilton on the right wing) to run all up, driving the enemy before them, who leaving their town to our forces, but had carried away the best of their goods, which were soon found by our soldiers. The bulk of the enemy hap|pening to lie against our right wing, caused the hottest dispute there, who lay behind logs and trees, till our for|ces, and Major Hilton, who led them, came on upon them, and forced them to run; and notwithstanding the sharp firing of the enemy at our forces, by the repeated provi|dence

of God, there was never a man of ours kill'd or wounded.

Our soldiers not having been long in town before they found considerable quantities of strong drink (both bran|dy and claret) and being very greedy after it, especially the Indians, were very disorderly, firing at every pig, turkey or fowl they law, of which were very plenty in the town, which endangered our own men: Colonel Church perceiving the disorder, and firing of his own men, ran to put a stop to it, had several shot come very near him; and finding what had occasioned this disorder, commanded his Officers to knock out the heads of every cask of strong li|quor they could find in the town, to prevent any further disturbance amongst his army; knowing it was impossible to have kept it from them, especially the Indians, if it was saved, &c. Then some of the army, who were desi|rous to pursue the enemy, having heard them driving away their cattle, requested the Colonel to let them go; who did: And gave them their orders. Captain Cooke, and Captain Church to lead the two wings, and Lieute|nant Barker, who led the Colonel's company, in the cen|tre: And the said Captain Cooke, and Captain Church de|sired Lieutenant Barker not to move too fast; so that lie might have the benefit of their assistance, if he had occa|sion; but the said Lieutenant not being so careful as he should have been, or at least was too eager, was shot down, and another man; which were all the men that were killed in the whole expedition. Towards night Co|lonel Church ordered some of his forces to pull down some of the houses, and others to get logs and make a fortifica|tion for his whole army to lodge in that night, that so they might be together: And just before night ordered some of his men to go see if there were any men in any of the houses in the town; if not, to set them all on fire; which was done, and the whole town seemed to be on fire all at once, &c. The next morning the Colonel gave orders to

his men to dig down the dams, and let the tide in to de|stroy all their corn, and every thing that was good, ac|cording to his instructions; and to burn the fortification which they had built the day before: And when the tide served to put all their plunder which they had got into the boats. Then ordering his soldiers to march at a good distance one from another; which caused the enemy to think that there were no less than a thousand men (as they said afterwards) and that their burning of the fortifica|tion, and doing as they did, caused the enemy to think that they were gone clear off, and not to return again. But it proved to the contrary, for Colonel Church and his forces only went aboard their transports, and there staid till the tide served; in the night embarked on board their whale-boats, landed some of his men, expecting they might meet with some of the enemy mending their dams; which they did, and with their boats went up an|other branch of the river, to another town or village; upon such a surprise took as many prisoners as they could desire. And it happened that Colonel Church was at the French Captain's house when two gentlemen came post from the Governor of Port-Royal to him, who was the chief Commander at Menis, with an express to send away two companies of men to defend the King's fort there; and to give him an account, That there were three English men of war come into Port-Royal Gut or harbour; and that the me••••••ent for must be posted away with all speed. Colonel Church, as was said before, be|ing there, treated the two gentlemen very handsomely, and told them, He would send them back again post to their master upon his business; and bid them give him his hearty thanks for sending him such good news, that part of his fleet was in so good a harbour. Then read|ing the summons to them that he had sent to Menis: Further added, That their Master the Governor of Port|Royal must immediately send away a post to the Gover|nor

of Canada, at Quebec, to prevent his further sending any of his cruel and bloody French and savages, as he had done lately upon Deerfield, where they had commit|ed such horrible and bloody outrages upon those poor people, that never did them any harm, as is intolerable to think of; and that for the future, if any such hosti|lities were made upon our frontier towns, or any of them, He would come out with a thousand savages, and whale|boats convenient, and turn his back upon them, and let his savages scalp and roast the French; or at least treat them as their savages had treated ours: Also gave them an account of part of that action at Passamequado, and how that his soldiers had killed and scalped some Canada men there, and would be glad to serve them so too, if he would permit them, which terrified them very much, &c. The two French Gentlemen that came post made solemn promises that they would punctually do the Colonel's mes|sage to their Governor. So with the desire of the French people there, that the Governor might have this intelli|gence, Colonel Church dismissed them, and sent them away; telling the same story to several of the prisoners, and what they must expect if some speedy course was not taken to prevent further outrages upon the English. The number of prisoners then present (which were consider|able) did unanimously entreat of Colonel Church, that he would take them under the protection of the crown of England; making great pr••••ises of their fidelity to the same, begging with great agony of spirit to save their lives, and to protect them from his savages, whom they extremely dreaded: As to the matter of the savages, he told them, it would be just retaliation for him to permit his savages to treat the French in the same manner, as the French with their savages treated our friends in our fron|tier towns: But as to his taking them under the protec|tion of the crown of England, he utterly refused it, urg|ing to them their former persidiousness; they also urging

to him, that it would be impossible for any French to live any where in the Bay of Fundy, if they were not taken under the English government; for with the benefit of the whale-boats, (as the English called them) they could take and destroy all their people in the town of Menis, in one night: But he replied to them, It should never be; al|ledging to them that when they were so before, when Port|Royal was taken last by the English, that it proved of ve|ry ill consequence to the crown of England, and the sub|jects thereof in our frontiers; for that our English traders supplying them, enabled them (which opportunity they improved) to supply the Indians, our bloody enemies; and therefore he could make no other terms of peace with them than that; If the French at Menis, Signecto and Ca|nada, would keep at home with their bloody savages, and not commit any hostilities upon any of our frontiers, we would return home and leave them; for that we lived at a great distance off, and had not come near them to hurt them now, had not the blood of our poor friends and brethren in all the frontiers of our province cried for ven|geance; especially that late unheard of barbarity com|mitted upon the town of Deerfield; which wrought so ge|nerally on the hearts of our people, that our forces came out with that unanimity of spirit, both among the English and our savages, that we had not, nor needed a pressed man among them. The Colonel also telling them, That if ever hereafter any of our frontiers, East or West were mo|lested by them, as formerly, that he would (if God spared his life) and they might depend upon it, return upon them with a thousand of his savages, if he wanted them, all volunteers, with our whale-boats, and would pursue them to the last extremity. The Colonel's warm discourse with them wrought such a consternation in them, which they discovered by their panic fears and trembling, their hearts sensibly beating, and rising up as it were ready to choke them; confessed they were all his prisoners, and

begged of him, for JESUS sake, to save their lives, and the lives of their poor families; with such melting terms, as wrought relentings in the Colonel's breast to|wards them; but however, he told them, That his intent was to carry as many prisoners home as he could, but that he had taken so many, they were more than he had occa|sion for, nor desired any more; and therefore he would leave them. The Colonel resolving the next day to com|plete all his action at Menis, and so draw off. Accord|ingly, sent his orders to Colonel Gorham, and Major Hilton, with all the English companies both officers and soldiers, except some few, which he thought he might have occasion for to go with the Indians in the whale|boats up the eastward river, where a third part of the in|habitants lived; that so he might prevent any reflection made on them, in leaving any part of the service undone. And therefore in the evening ordered all the whale-boats to be laid ready for the night's service; and accordingly when the tide served, he went with his Indians up the river, where they did some spoil upon the enemy going up. In the morning several of their transports came to meet them, to their great rejoicing, whom they went on board, and soon came up with the whole fleet, with whom they joined, bending their course directly towards Port-Royal, where they were ordered. Coming to Port|Royal Gut, where their ships were, and calling a coun|cil according to his instructions, drew up their result: Which is as followeth.

Present all the Field Officers and Captains of the land forces.

Aboard the Province Galley,4th July, 1704, in Port-Royal harbour.

WE whose names are hereunto subscribed, having deli|berately considered the cause in hand, whether it be proper to land all our forces, to offend and destroy as

much as we can at Port-Royal, all or any part of the in|habitants thereof, and their estates, We are of opinion, that it is no for our interest and honor, and the country's whom we serve, to land or expose ourselves; but quit it wholly, and go on about our other business we have to do, for this rea|son, That we judge ourselves inferior to the strength of the enemy; and therefore the danger and risk we run, is greater than the advantage we can, or are likely to obtain, seeing the enemy hath such timely notice, and long opportunity to pro|vide themselves against us, by our ships lying here in the road about twelve days, before we could join them from Menis, where we were during that time, and being so very meanly provided with necessaries convenient for such an undertaking with so small a number of men, not being above four hun|dred capable and fit for service to land; and understanding by all the intelligence we can get from both English and French prisoners, that the fort is exceeding strong.

John Gorham, Lieut. Col. Jos. Brown, James Cole, John Cook, Isaac Myrick, John IIarradon, Winthrop Hilton, Major. Constant Church, John Dyer, Joshua Lamb, Caleb Williamson, Edward Church.

Having, pursuant to my instructions, taken the advice of the Gentlemen above subscribed, and considering the weight of their reasons, I do concur therewith.

Benj. Church.

WHEREAS Colonel Church hath desired our opinions, as to the landing the forces at Port-Royal, they be|ing but 400 effective men to land, and by all the in|formation both of French and English prisoners, the enemy having a greater number of men, and much better provided to recive, than they are to attack them, We do believe it is for the service of the crown, and the preservation of her Ma|jesty's subjects to act as above mentioned. Thomas Smith, George Rogers, Cyprian Southack.

After this, they concluded what should be next done; which was, that the ships should stay some days longer at Port-Royal Gut, and then go over to Mount-Desart har|bour, and there stay till Colonel Church with his trans|ports came to them. Being all ready, the Colonel with his transports and forces went up the bay to Signecto, where they needed not a pilot, being several of them well acquainted there; (and had not met with so many diffi|culties at Menis, had it not been that their pilot deceived them; who knew nothing of the matter, kept out of the way and landed not with them, &c. And coming to Sig|necto, the enemy were all in arms ready to receive them. Col. Church landing his men, the Commander of the ene|my waving his sword over his head, bid a challenge to them. The Colonel ordering his two wings to march up a pace, and come upon the backs of the enemy, himself being in the centre, and the enemy knowing him, (hav|ing been there before) shot chiefly at him; but through God's goodness received no harm, neither had he one man killed, nor but two slightly wounded, and then all ran into the woods, and left their town with nothing in it; having had timely notice of our forces, had carried all away out of the reach of our army; for Colonel Church while there with part of his forces ranged the woods; but to no purpose: Then returning to the town, did them what spoil he could, according to his instructions, and so drew off, and made the best of their way for Passamequa|do, and going in, in a great fog, one of their transports ran upon a rock, but was soon got off again. Then Col. Church with some of his forces embarked in their whale|boats, and went amongst the islands, with an intent to go to Sharkee's, where they had destroyed the fish; but observing a springy place in a cove, went on shore to get some water to drink; it being a sandy beach, they espied tracks, the Colonel presently ordered his men to scatter, and make search; soon found De Boisses Wife, who had

formerly been Colonel Church's prisoner, and carried to Boston; but returned, who seemed very glad to see him: She had with her two sons that were near men grown: The Colonel ordering them apart, examined the woman first, who gave him this account following, That she had lived thereabouts ever since the fleet went by, and that she had never seen but two Indians since, who came in a canoe from Norrigwock; who asked her, what made her to be there alone? She told them, She had not seen a Frenchman nor an Indian, except those two since the English ships went by. Then the Indians told her there was not one Indian left except those two, who belong to the Gut of Canso, on this side of Ca|nada; for those friars coming down with the Indians to M. Gordans, and finding the Frenchmen slain, and their hair spoiled, being scalped, put them into a great consterna|tion; and the friars told them it was impossible for them to live thereabouts, for the English with their whale-boats would serve them all so; upon which they all went to Norrigiwock: Also told her that when the English came along through Penobscot, they had swept it of the inhabi|tants, as if it had been swept with a broom, neither French nor Indians escaping them: Further told her, That when their fathers, the friars, and the Indians met together at Norrigwock they called a council, and the friars told the Indians, That they must look out for some other country, for that it was impossible for them to live there; also told them there was a river called Mossippee, where they might live quietly, and no English come near them: It being as far beyond Canada, as it was to it, &c. and if they would go and live there, they would live and die with them, but if not they would leave them, and never come near them again. Whereupon they all agreed to go away; which they did, and left their rough housholdstuff, and corn behind them, and went all, except those two for Ca|nada.

Also her sons giving the same intelligence, so we had no reason to think but that it was true.

Colonel Church having done what he could there, em|barked on board the transports, and went to Mount-De|sart, found no ships there, but a rundlet rid off by a line in the harbour, which he ordered to be taken up, and opening of it found a letter, which gave him an account that the ships were gone home for Boston. Then he pro|ceeded and went to Penobscot; where being come, made diligent search in those parts for the enemy, but could not find or make any discovery of them, or that any had been there since he left those parts, which caused him to believe what De Boisses wife had told him was true.

I will only by the way just give a hint of what we heard since of the effects of this expedition, and then proceed: First, That the English forces that went next to Norrig|wock, found that the enemy was gone, and had left their rough houshold stuff and corn behind them; also not long after this expedition, there were several gentlemen sent down from Canada, to concert with our Governor about the settling of a cartile for the exchange of prisoners; and that the Governor of Canada has never since sent down an army upon our frontiers (that I know of) except some|times a scout of Indians to take some prisoners, that he might be informed of our state, and what we were acting, &c. and always took care that the prisoners so taken should be civilly treated, and safely returned, as I have been informed; that some of the prisoners that were taken gave an account; so that we have great cause to believe that the message Colonel Church sent by the two French gentlemen from Menis, to the Governor of Port-Royal, took effect, and was a means to bring peace in our bor|ders, &c. Then Col. Church with his forces embarked on board the transports, and went to Casco-Bay, where they met with Capt. Gallop, in a vessel from Boston, who had brought Col. Church further orders; which was to

send some of his forces up to Norrigwock, in pursuit of the enemy; but he being sensible that the enemy were gone from thence, and that his soldiers were much wore out, and fatigued in the hard service they had already done, and wanted to get home, called a council, and agreed all to go home, which accordingly they did.

To conclude this expedition, I will just give a hint of some treatment Colonel Church had before and after he came home. For all his great expences, fatigues and hardships, in and about this expedition, (viz.) He re|ceived of his Excellency Fifteen Pounds, as an earnest pen|ny towards raising volunteers; and after he came to re|ceive his debenture for his Colonel's pay, there was Two Shillings and Four Pence due to him; and as for his Cap|tain's pay, and man Jack, he has never received any thing as yet. Also after he came home, some ill minded persons did their endeavour to have taken away his life, for that there were some of the French enemy killed this expedition; but his Excellency the Governor, the ho|norable Council, and House of Representatives saw cause to clear him, and gave him thanks for his good service done.

FINIS.