Following this on the 8th of June, 1744, was issued the "proclamation for
a public fast." "Whereas it hath pleased God, in his holy, wise and
sovereign Providence, further to involve the British dominions in war,
whereby this Province will be greatly affected," &c. Therefore the 28th
day of June is appointed to be observed as a day of fasting and prayer,
&c., "and all servile labor and recreations are forbidden on that day."
Signed, W. Shirley. [Troops were raised in Boston at this time, following
the declaration of 29th March, and sent to Annapolis, Nova Scotia, where
they arrived, as Gordon says, in season, and "were the probable means of
saving the country."]