fforasmuch as the province is dayly threatened to be
invaded by the Indians, and the Inhabitants of this province
lyeing so dispersed, and that in many places they are in so
small numbers that they are utterly unable to defend them-
selves, To the end that the people may in some reasonable
manner be secured and that the Enemy may not gaine too much
ground of us. Wee doe by the advise of Our Deputy Leivten-
ant and Councill Order the Inhabitants of S^t Maries Calvert
Ann Arundell Baltemore. Charles and Cecill Countyes to
infort themselves in their houses, and into the said fforts to
draw any persons able to beare Armes not exceeding ten
men in number unlesse they be Servants really purchased and
bona fide paid for by the master of the house where such ffort
shall be. And in regard drawing greater numbers then ten
into any One house will undoubtedly give too much ground
to the Enemy upon any invasion that may happen, Wee doe
further with the advise of Our said Deputy & Councell strictly
Charge and Comand all masters of houses where such fforts
shall be, not to entertaine any greater number then ten men
able to beare Armes into any of their said fforts or houses
upon paine of being proceeded against as mutinous and Sedi-
tious persons gathered together with fforce contrary to the
Knowne Law of this province and the Law of the Kingdome
of England, unlesse the men now belonging as Servants as
aforesaid to the said masters or now sojourning in the said