Whereas it is absolutely necessary, for the security and defence of this province against domestic insurrections, and other fatal consequences, in this time of imminent danger, that fire-arms be carried to all places of publick worship […] That every white male person in this province, from the age of sixteen years and upwards, except only those who are not obliged to appear under arms in case of alarm, shall, immediatley after the passing of this act, carry with them on Sabbath-days, fasts, and festivals, to such place of publick worship that he may go to within the town or district where such person shall reside, one good gun, or pair of pistols, with at least six charges of gun-powder and ball. II. And be it enacted, […] That every person, neglecting or refusing to bring arms and ammunition to the plaaces of publick worship as aforesaid, shall forfeit for every such offence a sum not exceeding three shillings, to be recovered by warrant of distress from any justice of the peace for the town or district where the offense is committed, the one half of the said fine to go to the informer, and the other half for the use of the poor of the district where the offense is committed; Provided always, that this act shall not be construed to extend to oblige the inhabitants of Savannah, or any other towns in this province, to perform the duty enjoined by this act at any time hereafter, if this majesty’s troops, companies, or provincials should be stationed therein, whereby a proper guard may be constantly kept on duty.