We can now only add, that we continue firm in our resolutions to defend ourselves, notwithstanding the _big threats_ of the ministry. We have just taken one of their ordnance storeships, in which an abundance of carcasses and bombs, intended for burning our towns, were found. With great esteem, we are, Sir, your most obedient humble servants, B. FRANKLIN, JOHN DICKINSON, JOHN JAY. TO BENJAMIN FRANKLIN. London, February 13th, 1776. The enclosed will easily explain itself. The intelligence you should observe, and take measures accordingly. A fund for necessary expenses should be fixed here, in such hands as can be confided in. You know who is to be trusted. From experience I can say, (though without any connexion or commerce with them) the New England men are fittest to be trusted in any dangerous or important enterprise. Show this only to R. H. L.[1] of Virginia, and he will _guess_ from whence it comes. The intelligence, if it gets to hand in time, should be communicated as soon as possible to every part of America, that she may be prepared. [1] Richard Henry Lee. TO LIEUTENANT GOVERNOR COLDEN.[2] [Enclosed in the foregoing.] London, February 13th, 1776. Dear Sir, Your letter of the 30th of November, 1775, announcing the appointment of a Secret Committee reached me a few days since. Miscarriages will be manifold indeed, if you have not frequently heard from me. All my solicitude has been about my letters reaching you; every disguise was necessary to effect that. I am, however, much obliged to the General for the step taken to secure me. You will be curious to know what are the ministerial intentions, and their force for the next campaign. The following is their army upon paper,--Hessians, 12,000; Brunswickers, Woolfenbutlers and Waldeckers, 5000; six regiments under Lord Cornwallis, 3000; eight more to sail in the spring, 4000; Highlanders, 2000; now in America, 8000.