LETTERS OF JOHN ANDREWS. 29
where they are to take up their residence. The above, with one belonging to the 5th Regiment are the only two deserters they have taken, although upwards of 200 have left 'ein since they've been here. They are kept under much stricter discipline than if in an enemy's country; being pul under guard if seen conversing with an inhabitant, and not suffer'd to leave the camp without a written pass, which makes the Soldiers very dissatisfied with their situation, and rather stimulates their going off" than otherways.
I intend sending this by Mr. Glover, who leaves town We'nsday morning. If anything turns up in the mean while worth relating, shall communicate it. Must beg your candour in regard to all I have; wrote you of late, being only my crude thoughts, as they arise in my mind, without any correction whatever, as it would he almost an end- less piece of business for me to copy all I have wrote, and what I may probably write you in future: for which reason I hope any of my letters wont miscarry, as in that case you will lose the connection between them, which it will be out of my power to supply by a du- plicate. Must likewise enjoin it upon you to keep my name, as the author, to yourself; having wrote them only for your amusement, and if they serve to afford you any my utmost end is answer'd.
August 1 o/7/. Last evening the Cadet company met at Faneuil Hall by desire of* Col'.' Hancock, when he communicated to them a letter he had received from the Secretary, by order of the Governor, dismissing him from any further service as Captain of that Company : when they pass'd a vote to return their Colors to his Excellency, and acquaint him that they should not in future esteem themselves as his body guard; as also to deliver their Equipage, Musical instruments, &ca. into Colonel Hancock's keeping till some future time, being determin'd not to appear under any other leader while he lives, as by the establishment of the Company they have a right to choose their own officers. By your uncle's not going to Salem to attend Councill this morning, I conclude he has declin'd to accept, which I am the more inclin'd to think, as your aunt (with whom I drank tea yesterday P.M.) was very uneasy least he should accept. Like the African habituated to slavery. I begin to lie a little more reconcil'd to the loss of business and an inactive state of life; but the distant prospeel of relief affords one some small consolation, and leads me to think that sooner or later our just rights and liberties will he reinstated upon a prni and solid foundation, if not impeded by a defection among our- selves. With a hearty concurrence in every general plan that may be
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