Gentlemen, The inhabitants of the town of Boston, legally assembled, have taken into consideration ... : the subject of the fishery, and the great importance of a common right therein being secured to the United States, whenever a treaty of peace shall be concluded. ... This town have judged it necessary to instruct their representatives in the General Court on the subject. The instructions are inclos'd. ... In the name and by order of the town of Boston ... December 14, 1781.