CHAPTER XXV.

RHODE ISLAND BLOCKADED.--DECLARATION OF INDEPENDENCE INDORSED BY THE ASSEMBLY.-- NEW TROOPS RAISED.--FRENCH ALLIANCE.--UNSUCCESSFUL ATTEMPT TO DRIVE THE BRITISH FROM RHODE ISLAND.

Islands and waters of Rhode Island taken possession of by the British, 229

Quota of Rhode Island, 230

Inoculation introduced, 231

Treatment of Tories, 231

Declaration of Independence indorsed by the Assembly, 232

Rhode Island's part in the Continental Navy, 232

Convention of Eastern States to form a concerted plan of action, 233

Financial troubles, 234

Regiment of negroes raised, 234

1778. Tidings of the French alliance received, 235

Expedition against Bristol and Warren, 235

Attempt to drive the British from Rhode Island rendered unsuccessful by a terrible storm, and jealousy among the officers of the French fleet, 236