They were directed to enter some good port in New England, where they were to ascertain whether the colonial governments would join in vindicating the English right and in extirpating the Dutch.
"Being come to the Manhattoes," wrote secretary Thurlow, "you shall, by surprise, open force, or otherwise, endeavor to take the place.

You have power to give fair quarter in case it be rendered upon summons without opposition.

If the Lord give his blessing, you shall not use cruelty to the inhabitants, but encourage those who are willing to remain under the English government, and give liberty to others to transport themselves to Europe." Governor Stuyvesant received early intelligence of the projected expedition, and immediately convened his council.

The danger was imminent.

The Dutch alone could oppose but feeble resistance.