n Pulitzer Prize author David McCullough's book "1776," he writes about British Admiral Lord Howe and brother Sir William's attempt "to make yet another appeal for conciliation" for the "peaceful obedience" of the Americans residing in New Jersey. Thus, by proclamation of 30 Nov 1776, if within 60 days New Jersians were to "come forth and take an oath of allegiance" to the King, a "free and general pardon" would be granted, primarily assuring the "preservation of their property." What follows here is the story of that "farmer near Brunswick named John Bray" who took the oath and encouraged his "kinsman" to do the same.