Resolution of the Continental Congress

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In Congress, Thursday, May 18, 1775.

Whereas, there is indubitable evidence that a design is formed by the British Ministry of making a cruel invasion from the Province of Quebeck upon these Colonies, for the purpose of destroying our lives and liberties, and some steps have actually been taken to carry the said design into execution: and whereas several inhabitants of the Northern Colonies, residing in the vicinity of Ticonderoga, immediately exposed to incursions, impelled by a just regard for the defence and preservation of themselves and their countrymen from such imminent danger and calamities, have taken possession of that post in which was lodged a quantity of cannon and military stores that would certainly have been used in the intended invasion of these Colonies: this Congress earnestly recommend it to the Committees of the Cities and Counties of New-York and Albany, immediately to cause the said cannon and stores to be removed from Ticonderoga to the south end of Lake George; and, if necessary, to apply to the Colonies of New-Hampshire, Massachusetts-Bay, and Connecticut, for such an additional body of forces as will be sufficient to establish a strong post at that place, effectually to secure the said cannon and stores, or so many of them, as it may be judged proper to keep there, and that an exact inventory be taken of all such cannon and stores, in order that they may be safety returned when the restoration of the former harmony between Great Britain and the Colonies, so ardently wished for by the latter, shall render it prudent and consistent with the overruling law of self-preservation.

A true copy from the Minutes:

CHARLES THOMPSON, Secretary.

New-York, May 20, 1775. — A true copy:

HENRY REMSEN, Dep˙ Chairman.