Evans was of Welsh origin, and in February 1704, became deputy governor of the province, under the proprietor, William Penn.
His administration was marked by quarrels with the assembly, and especially with the speaker of the house, David Lloyd, who headed the popular party.
The call met with no response, whereupon the governor, resorting to a discreditable ruse, arranged to have a messenger ride into Philadelphia on the day of the annual fair, announcing, with apparent consternation, that the French had arrived in the Delaware and were marching on the city.
Evans then rode through the street with drawn sword, entreating the people to arm, and for a time great excitement prevailed.
Valuables were hastily thrown into wells, and many people fled to the forests; but the Quakers, on whom Evans had wished to make an impression, continued quietly at their devotions, as it was the day for their "weekly meeting."