Extract of a Letter from New-York to a Gentleman in Philadelphia, Dated April 24, 1775

v2:364

I do not doubt but the interesting news from Boston must give every good and virtuous man much concern, that, from present appearances, a reconciliation between us and Great Britain is at a farther distance than we, of late, had rational grounds to hope. Surely this proceeding on the part of General Gage is not the olive branch held up by Government. Yesterday this whole City was in a state of alarm; every face appeared animated with resentment. Soon after the news arrived by express, many citizens went to two Transports loaded with Bread, Flour, &c˙, for the Troops, and they were speedily unloaded. The Committee met, and after despatching the express, considered of other matters, and will no doubt be attentive to every thing within their power to preserve the peace of the Town, and property, and all other matters tending towards maintaining the character of a sister Colony that feels for another in distress. Many persons of influence, who have been thought inimical to the cause, now come out boldly and declare their sentiments worthy of themselves. Indeed the difference of sentiment has not been much; party views kept men of weight asunder; it is hoped that will subside more and more.