Cambridge June 25, 1775

Dear and Hon'd Mother
As per my Duty to you, I would inform you on my present state and employment, being rather scrupulous whether you ever may receive these lines, shall give but a short sketch of affairs, which if otherwise I would.

Before these long threat'ned difficulties began among us, I had plan'd out to go to Connecticut where I expected to work the Summer; but the Allwise in his providence hath very differently plann'd my summer work, which I hope may turn to his Glory and my good.

I suppose I need not acquaint you of the manner in which the enemy first approach'd us at Concord, it is more than probable you have had it in print long since. When I was first alarm['d] I was at Westford, whither I went to take leave of my Friends, and settle some affairs that I had in hand, was call'd about Day-light, or a little after, and rode as post that forenoon, before I could get to Concord, after which I pursu'd with the rest and fought that day, tarried at Cambridge that Night, being forbid to go home soon after this there was an Army establish'd all business then being stagnated, and a great deal wholly broke up, I did not know what I could do better than to enlist. Therefore being hearty in the cause, I did it directly (and listed) under Captn Oliver Bates, in Collo Prescott's Regiment with whom I tarried a while till he our Captain was taken sick and went home, when Mr. Joshua Parker by succession took his place, and makes his ground good, in whose company I remain yet, where I do a Clerk or Orderly Sergants business; which requires much care but the Duty is easier, and the pay higher than a private Soldiers --. Friday th 16 of June we were orderd on parade at six 'o Clock, with one days provision and Blankets ready for a March somewhere, but we knew not where but we readily and cheerfully obey'd, the whole that were call'd for, were these three