After the establishment of Major Studholme’s garrison at Fort Howe, in the fall of 1777, the settlers on the river found adequate protection. The Indians occasionally assumed a hostile attitude it is true, especially when they were stirred up by Allan’s emissaries from Machias, but they were rather overawed by the proximity of the fort and were for the most part peacefully disposed. The privateers continued their depredations on the coast, but kept clear of Fort Howe. The condition of the settlers on the river had gradually improved and they were now able to live within themselves. Money too.