Another remarkable proclamation was issued by "His Excellency, William
Shirley, Esq., Captain-General and Governor-in-Chief in and over His
Majesty's Province of Massachusetts Bay, in New England." This is a
"declaration of war against the Cape Sable's and St. John's Indians." It
is stated that whereas some of the Cape Sable Indians, who have formally
by treaty submitted to his Majesty's government, have, "in the port of
Jedoure, in a treacherous and cruel manner, murdered divers of His
Majesty's English subjects, belonging to a fishing vessel; and, whereas,
the Cape Sable Indians with the St. John's tribe, have in a hostile manner
joined with the French King's subjects in assaulting His Majesty's fort at
Annapolis-Royal, &c., therefore, said Indians are declared to be rebels,
traitors, and enemies, and His Majesty's officers and subjects are to
execute all acts of hostility against the said Indians," &c. This
proclamation is dated at Boston, Oct. 19, 1744.