Diary of John Quincy Adams, volume 2
1788-08-11
Thompson watch'd last evening;1 in consequence of which he felt not much disposed to study closely this day, and was but little at the office. Walk'd in the evening with Putnam.
For protection against fires and other disorders, the town of Newburyport required the services of two night watchmen, chosen by the constables from a list of all able-bodied townsmen (Currier, Newburyport
, 2:46).