The Massachusetts spy, or, Thomas's Boston journal (Boston [Mass.]), 1774-12-01 00:00:00

Dec 4, 1907
THE Massachusetts Spy
Or Thomas's Boston Journal.
DO THOU GREAT LIBERTY inspire our Souls—And make our Lives in THY Possession happy—Or, our Deaths glorious in THY just Defence.
VOL. IV.) THURSDAY, DECEMBER 1, 1774. (NUMB. 200.)
JOIN OR DIE
GRAND AMERICAN CONGRESS.
To the INHABITANTS of the COLONIES of NEW-HAMPSHIRE, MASSACHUSETTS-BAY, RHODE-ISLAND, and PROVIDENCE PLANTATIONS; CONNECTICUT, NEW-YORK, NEW-JERSEY, PENNSYLVANIA, the counties of NEW-Castle, KENT and SUSSEX on Delaware; MARYLAND, VIRGINIA, NORTH-CAROLINA and SOUTH-CAROLINA.
[Concluded from our last.]
THE tranquility of the colonies having been again disturbed, as has been mentioned, by the statutes of the year 1767, the Earl of Hillsborough, Secretary of State, in a letter to Governor Bernard, dated April 22, 1768, censures the "presumption" of the House of Representatives for "resolving upon a measure of so inflammatory a nature as that of writing to the other colonies, on the subject of their intended representations against some late Acts of Parliament," then declares that, "his Majesty considers this step as evidently tending to create unwarrantable combinations, to excite an unjustifiable opposition to the constitutional authority of Parliament,"—and afterwards adds,—"It is the King's pleasure, that as soon as the General Court is again assembled, at the time prescribed by the Charter, you should require of the House of Representatives, in his Majesty's name, to rescind the resolution which gave birth to the circular letter from the Speaker, and to declare their disapprobation of, and dissent to that rash and hasty proceeding."
If the new Assembly should refuse to comply with his Majesty's reasonable expectation, "it is the King's pleasure, that you shall immediately dissolve them."
This letter being laid before the House, and the resolution not being rescinded according to the order, the Assembly was dissolved. A letter of a similar nature was sent to other Governors to procure resolutions approving the conduct of the Representatives of Massachusetts-Bay to be rescinded also; and the Houses of Representatives in other Colonies refusing to comply, Assemblies were dissolved.
These mandates spoke a language, to which the ears of English subjects had for several generations been strangers. The nature of Assemblies implies a power and right of deliberation; but these commands, proscribing the exercise of judgment on the propriety of the requisitions made, left the Assemblies only the election between dictated submission and the threatened punishment: A punishment too, founded on no other act, than such as is deemed innocent even in slaves—of agreeing in petitions for redress of grievances, that equally affected all.
The hostile and unjustifiable invasion of the town of Boston soon followed these events in the same year; though that town, the province in which it is situated, and all the colonies, from abhorrence of a contest with their parent state, permitted the execution even of those statutes, against which they so unanimously were complaining, remonstrating and supplicating.
Administration, determined to subdue a spirit of freedom, which English Ministers should have rejoiced to cherish, entered into a monopolising combination with the East-India company, to send to this continent vast quantities of Tea, an article on which a duty was laid by a statute, that, in a particular manner, attacked the liberties of America, and which therefore the inhabitants of these Colonies had resolved not to import. The cargo sent to South-Carolina was stored, and not allowed to be sold. Those sent to Philadelphia and New-York were not permitted to be landed. That sent to Boston was destroyed, because Governor Hutchinson would not suffer it to be returned.
On the intelligence of these transactions arriving in Great Britain, the public spirited town last mentioned was singled out for destruction, and it was determined, the province it belongs to should partake of its fate. In the last session of parliament therefore were passed the acts for shutting up the port of Boston, indemnifying the murderers of the inhabitants of Massachusetts-Bay, and changing their chartered constitution of government. To enforce these acts, that province is again invaded by a fleet and army.
To mention these outrageous proceedings, is sufficient to explain them. For though it is pretended, that the province of Massachusetts-Bay has been particularly disrespectful to Great-Britain, yet in truth the behaviour of the people,
in other Colonies, has been an equal "opposition to the power assumed by parliament." No step however has been taken against any of the rest. This artful conduct conceals several designs. It is expected that the province of Massachusetts-Bay will be irritated into some violent action, that may displease the rest of the continent, or that may induce the people of Great-Britain to approve the mediated vengeance of an imprudent and exasperated Ministry.
If the unexampled pacific temper of that province shall disappoint this part of the plan, it is hoped the other Colonies will be so far intimidated as to desert their brethren, suffering in a common cause, and that thus disunited all may be subdued.
To promote these designs, another measure has been pursued. In the session of parliament last mentioned, an act was passed, for changing the government of Quebec, by which act the Roman Catholic religion, instead of being tolerated, as stipulated by the treaty of peace, is established; and the people there deprived of the right to an Assembly, trials by jury and the English laws in civil cases abolished, and instead thereof, the French laws established, in direct violation of his Majesty's promise by his royal proclamation, under the faith of which many English subjects settled in that province, and the limits of that province are extended so as to comprehend those vast regions, that lie adjoining to the northern and western boundaries of these colonies.
The authors of this arbitrary arrangement flatter themselves, that the inhabitants, deprived of liberty, and artfully provoked against those of another religion, will be proper instruments for assisting in the oppression of such as differ from them in modes of government and faith.
From the detail of facts herein before recited, as well as from authentic intelligence received, it is clear beyond a doubt that a resolution is formed and now carrying into execution, to extinguish the freedom of these colonies by subjecting them to a despotic government.
At this unhappy period, we have been authorized and directed to meet and consult together for the welfare of our common country. We accepted the important trust with diffidence, but have endeavoured to discharge it with integrity. Tho' the state of these colonies would certainly justify other measures than we have advised; yet weighty reasons determined us to prefer those which we have adopted. In the first place, it appeared to us a conduct becoming the character these colonies have ever sustained, to perform, even in the midst of the unnatural distresses and imminent dangers that surround them, every act of loyalty; and therefore, we were induced to offer once more to his Majesty, the petitions of his faithful and oppressed subjects in America. Secondly, regarding with the tender affection, which we knew to be so universal among our countrymen, the people of the kingdom from which we derive our original, we could not forbear to regulate our steps by an expectation of receiving full conviction, that the colonists are equally dear to them. Between these provinces and that body subsists the social band, which we ardently with may never be dissolved, and which cannot be dissolved, until their minds shall become indubitably hostile, or their inattention shall permit those who are thus hostile, to persist in prosecuting with the powers of the realm the destructive measures already operating against the colonists; and in either case, shall reduce the latter to such a situation, that they shall be compelled to renounce every regard, but that of self-preservation. Notwithstanding the vehemence with which affairs have been impelled, they have not yet reached that fatal point. We do not incline to accelerate their motion, already alarmingly rapid; we have chosen a method of opposition, that does not preclude a hearty reconciliation with our fellow-subjects on the other side the Atlantic. We deeply deplore the urgent necessity that presses us to an immediate interruption of commerce, that may prove injurious to them. We trust they will acquit us of any unkind intentions towards them, by reflecting that we subject ourselves to similar inconveniencies; that we are driven by the hands of violence into unexperienced, and unexpected public convulsions, and that we are contending for freedom, so often contended for by our ancestors.
The people of England will soon have an opportunity of declaring their sentiments concerning our cause. In their piety, generosity and
good sense, we repose high confidence; and cannot, upon a review of past events, be persuaded, that they, the defenders of true religion, and the asserters of the rights of mankind, will take part against their affectionate protestant brethren in the colonies, in favour of our open and their own secret enemies; whose intrigues, for several years past, have been wholly exercised in sapping the foundations of civil and religious liberty.
Another reason that engaged us to prefer the commercial mode of opposition, arose from an assurance, that this mode will prove efficacious, if it be persisted in with fidelity and virtue; and that your conduct will be influenced by those laudable principles, cannot be questioned. Your own salvation and that of your posterity now depends upon yourselves. You have already shown that you entertain a proper sense of the blessings you are, striving to retain. Against the temporary inconveniences you may suffer from a stoppage of trade, you will weigh in the opposite balance, the endless miseries you and your descendants must endure from an established arbitrary power. You will not forget the honour of your country, that must from your behaviour take its title in the estimation of the world, to glory, or to shame; and you will, with the deepest attention, reflect, that if the peaceable mode of opposition recommended by us, be broken and rendered ineffectual, as your cruel and haughty ministerial enemies, from a contemptuous opinion of your firmness, inflexibly predict will be the case, you must inevitably be reduced to choose, either a more dangerous contest, or a slavery, loss and ruin.
Motives thus cogent; and the sense, and gravity of your unhappy condition, must excite your utmost diligence and zeal, to give all possible energy to the pacific measures calculated for your relief: but we think ourselves bound in duty to observe to you, that the measures agitated against these colonies, have been so conducted, as to render it prudent, that you should extend your view to the most unhappy events and be in all respects prepared for every contingency. Above all things we earnestly entreat you, with devotion of spirit, penitence of heart, and amendment of life, to humble yourselves and implore the favour of Almighty God. And we fervently beseech his divine goodness, to take you into his gracious protection.
From the PENNSYLVANIA PACKET.
Of GENERAL GAGE.
As the character of a man who has accepted an office as that in which we at present see General Gage, will naturally be extremely misrepresented and disfigured, the following essay towards it, by a person who has long known him, cannot be unacceptable to the public: It shall be given with the strictest regard to candour and truth.
GENERAL GAGE had the misfortune to be born of a family almost time out of mind the apportionment of a court: from them he imbibed strong propensities, not only in favour of the sacredness and infallibility of Kings, but of ministers; from them he was taught to think but lightly of the rights of the people at large, and to consider their complaints rather as indecorums than objects of concern and deference. He received the rudiments of education at one of the public schools, where, unhappily, the history, transactions, laws and constitution of our own country are totally neglected, some acquaintance with which is certainly of more importance than the being able to scan the flattering verifiers of Augustus's age. From thence he was removed to a French academy, where what is taught is more calculated to give air and fashion to a man of the world, than to qualify him for the office and duty of a citizen; it consists in little attainments (undoubtedly becoming a gentleman) but it neither inspires sentiment nor bestows the knowledge necessary to an Englishman and member of a free community. He came into the army early, but here too he was unlucky: Instead of taking his post in the line as a common officer, he was attached to the person of a court General, a General so totally destitute of every quality of a soldier that it is universally allowed had he not been a courtier, he never could have arrived beyond the degree of a recruiting Sergeant. In such a school as this: no enlarged, generous, political sentiments could possibly be gleaned: Whereas the common officers of marching regiments (uncontaminated by attendance on the persons of court minnions) have frequently a very liberal way of thinking on this great subject.
General Gage is not a man of brilliant parts, but has what the world calls a plain good understanding: That sort of understanding which, had he given it fair play by keeping good company, was capable of being dilated to a respectable size. By keeping good company, I mean conversing with sensible men and sensible books; but by neglecting these points, he has perhaps reduced it below its natural standard; for wit, like other things, from want of proper exercise and stimulation, is apt to contract and grow blunt. I have now been so extremely free respecting this gentleman's connections and education, that I may expect some credit with regard to his personal virtues, and the natural qualities of his heart, and here I am assured I shall want language to do him justice: As a friend he is warm, earnest, zealous and steady; as a companion he is easy, facetious, unsearched and complaisant; as a husband and father he is gentle, indulgent and affectionate; as a gentleman he is unselfish, various and well bred; and as a man he is just, charitable and benevolent.
When we consider therefore, General Gage in his public and private capacity, a contrariety of passions fills our breasts, the effects of which are disagreeable beyond description: indignation, compassion, contempt and respect alternately reign. In contemplating the officer, abstract of the man, we execrate and despise him; in contemplating the man, abstract of the officer, we love and reverence him. Thus have an unhappy education, unhappy connections, but above all, the arts of a most corrupt and wicked court metamorphosed a man intended by nature to be one of the ornaments of the human race, into the object of every virtuous citizen's detestation.
L'ingannare, il mentire, la froda, il furto, E la rapina di pietà vestita, Crescer col danno e precipizio altrui, E far a se de l'altrui bivio onore, Son la virtù di quella corte infida.
is the exact description of the court of Great-Britain. There is no doubt but that all the tricks of this court have been played off upon General Gage, the craft of Mansfield, the insinuation of North, and the same calumnies of those who, (which duped Chatham, and enfeebled poor Yorke to his destruction) have been employed to seduce him into the odious office he at present holds. A man of a bad character would not, they thought, have answered their purposes so well, as a fair reputation in the agent, frequently sanctifies the iniquity of the principal.
The awkward and ridiculous figure he makes, demonstrates that he has not a single attribute for the works of villainy. Had we been blessed with upright able ministers, a Sully, a Pitt, or a Panin, it is more than probable that General Gage would have been a favourite, and there is less doubt that he would have executed their plans of rectitude, with credit, ability and success.
Deceit, lying, fraud, and the spirit of plundering, rapine cloaked in the garb of piety, building their fortunes on the loss and ruin of other men, taking credit to themselves from the infamy of others, are the virtues of this infamous court.
A SUMMARY VIEW of the RIGHTS of BRITISH AMERICA.
Set forth in some RESOLUTIONS, intended to be the INSPECTION of the present DELIGATES of the COLONY of VIRGINIA now in CONVENTION. Wood, THO. December 1. 1774. No. 198. J. B.
IT is the opinion of the committee, that arbitrary measures before complained of, have from time to time been among us large bodies of armed forces, not made up of the people here, nor raised by the authority of our laws: Did his Majesty possess such a right as this, it might swallow up all our other rights, whenever he should think proper. But his Majesty has no right to land a single armed man on our shores, and those whom he sends here, are liable to our laws made for the suppression and punishment of riots, routs and unlawful assemblies; or are hostile bodies, invading us in defiance of law. When in the course of the late war it became expedient that a body of Hanoverian troops should be brought over for the defence of Great-Britain; his Majesty's grandfather, the late sovereign, did not pretend to introduce them under any authority he possessed. Such a measure would have given just alarm to his subjects in Great-Britain, whose liberties would not be safe if armed men of another country and of another spirit, might be brought into the realm at any time without the consent of their legislature. He therefore applied to parliament, who passed an act for that purpose, limiting the number to be brought in, and the time they were to continue. In like manner is his Majesty restrained in every part of the empire. He possesses, indeed, the executive power of the laws in every state, but they are the laws of the particular state which he is to administer within that state, and not those of any one, within the limits of another. Every state must judge for itself the number of armed men which they may safely trust among them, of whom they are to consist, and under what restrictions they shall be laid.
To render these proceedings still more criminal against our laws, instead of subjecting the military to the civil powers, his Majesty has expressly made the civil subordinate to the military. But can his Majesty thus put down all law under his feet? Can he erect a power superior to that which erected himself? He has done it indeed by force, but let him remember that force cannot give right. That these are our grievances, which we have thus laid before his Majesty, with that freedom of language and sentiment which becomes a free people claiming their rights, derived from the laws of nature, and not as the gift of their chief magistrate: Let those flat or who fear, it is not an American art. To give those who are in doubt, might be well from the venal, but would ill become those who are asserting the rights of human nature. They know, and will therefore say, that Kings are the servants, not the proprietors of the people. Open your eyes, Sire, to liberal and expanded thoughts. Let not the game of George the third be a blot in the page of history. You are surrounded by British counsellors, but remember that they are puppets. You have no ministers for American affairs because you have none taken from among us, or amenable to the laws on which they are to give you advice. It behoves you, therefore, to think and to act for yourself and your people. The great principles of right and wrong are legible to every reader; to pursue them requires not the aid of many counsellors. The whole art of government consists in the art of being honest, only aim to do your duty, and mankind will give you credit where you fail. No longer persevere in sacrificing the rights of one part of the empire to the inordinate desires of another; but deal out to all equal and impartial right. Let no act pass by any one legislature which may infringe on the rights and liberties of another. This is the important post at which fortune has placed you, holding the balance of a great and a well poised empire. This, Sire, is the advice of your great American Council, on the observance of which may perhaps depend your felicity and future fame, and the preservation of that harmony which alone can continue both to Great-Britain and America the reciprocal advantages of their connection. It is neither our will nor our interest to separate from her. We are willing on our part to sacrifice every thing which reason can ask, to the restoration of that tranquility for which all must wish. On their part let them be ready to establish union and a generous plan. Let them name their terms, but let them be just. Accept of every commercial preference it is in our power to give such things as we can raise for their use, or they make for ours.

But let them not think to exclude us from going to other markets to dispose of those commodities which they cannot use, or to supply those wants which they cannot supply. Still less let it be proposed that our properties, within our own territories, shall be taxed or regulated by any power on earth but our own. The God who gave us life, gave us liberty at the same time; the hand of force may destroy, but cannot disjoin them. This is our case, our determined resolution, and that you will be pleased to interpose with that efficiency which your earnest endeavours may ensure, to procure redress of these our great grievances, &c. The minds of your subjects in British America, against all apprehensions of future encroachment, to establish fraternal love and harmony through the whole empire, and that these may continue to the latest ages of time, is the fervent prayer of all British America!
BOSTON.
The Captains Shayler and Bruce arrived on Monday last at Salem, from London: By them we have received London Papers to the 10th of October. They are chiefly filled with accounts of preparations for elections, which seemed to engage the whole attention of the Kingdom.
MADRID, (Capital of Spain) August 24.
LETTERS from Cadiz advise, that they were arming with the utmost diligence a certain number of ships for America, which were to be in readiness to take some troops on board the 15th of this month; that a profound silence was kept respecting the place where the troops were to disembark, but that it was presumed it would be on the river de la Plata, or at Buenos Ayres.
LONDON, September 17. Three of their Majesties children, viz. Prince Ernest, Prince Augustus, and Princess Augusta, are now preparing for inoculation, which is to be performed the latter end of this month.
Strange as it may be, the Earl of Bute is now actually talked of as successor to Lord H——h. Lord North, we hear, has, during this summer's recess, hit upon a method for paying off two millions of the national debt, without being burthensome to, or creating any murmurs from the public.
The Americans fully expected that the British parliament would meet this week, in order to have granted them some relief; on this account, 'tis said, they were prevailed upon by some men among them to behave peaceably; but how they will conduct themselves when they hear a prorogation has taken place, may be guessed at with much concern.
The King of Prussia, by way of insinuating himself into the good graces of Great Britain, it is whispered, has been at the pains of forming a plan, and sent it to London, for establishing peace and loyalty among our American colonists. Whether this plan will be adopted cannot yet be known; as there have been some councils held upon it, 'tis thought it will not be much diffused.
A correspondent says, that the John Wilkes is a certain great lawyer's HAWESWORTH , in which it is said he has made such proficiency as to be able to exhibit at the Lord Mayor's ball at the Mansion-house, provided Mr. Wilkes is fixed in the city chair.
Sept. 19. The Count de Guignes is at last nominated by the King of France, ambassador to the court of London.
Orders are issued from the Treasury for the coinage of seven shilling pieces.
Sept. 20. The following is handed about in many places for a true picture of some part of Europe: in England, Popery increases and Liberty decreases: In France the people begin to be uneasy by the different conduct of their King now, towards what it was when he came to the crown— their army and navy very formidable. Spain, his hand uplifted to give a terrible stroke somewhere. Prussia lamenting the folly he committed in Poland and Portugal, looking about to deceive somebody.
When a nation gives any visible mark of ill conduct, such as rings through the whole world, it draws so many eyes upon it as quite look into all its weaker parts, its protection is no longer relied upon, and its alliances is not courted; other countries first despise, and then venture to insult it; for mankind will be always apt to imagine that where there is no council, there can be no real strength. Such a taste of ourselves it is to be feared we have given by our treatment of the Americans. It is to be apprehended our neighbours have the worst opinion of our honour and wisdom; for they think if we can behave so unfeelingly towards our own colonists, and by so doing pay no regard to the real interest of the nation, we cannot possibly have any good intention towards them. It is true, our arms have been dreadful in the field, and our fleets have been the terror of the main; but shall we be any longer feared when they are employed as they are at present.
We are assured that advices were received on Saturday last, of hostilities having commenced in the Mediterranean between the Spaniards and Portuguese.
The citizens of London, according to Echard's history of England, were once frightened out of their wits, by a notion that they were deep designs, by gun powder, to blow up the Thames, and choke them with the water in their beds. At this present time, we are informed, some of them are in a dreadful panic for fear government should remove the sea, as well as the custom-house, from Boston, in order to prevent all intercourse between the people of that town and London.
Sept. 21. If the m——y gained ground by inches in the public opinion, for seeming to forward the passing Mr. Grenville's act, they have not it by acres in pushing those unpopular acts the Boston Port and Popish Quebec bills.
Sept. 24. It is conjectured that there are near
200 members in the present Parliament who will not be returned at the next election, even with the government interest on their side, if free-holders continue firm.
No news, is good news, says the proverb, when good men are uneasy for the welfare and safety of their friends and fellow-subjects at a distance, either in peace or war; but no news seem to be bad news to the ministry, who have notes yet (heaven be praised) had the supreme pleasure of exulting over the freedom of America; in massacres, no murderers, the civil-war there operates slowly, on the contrary, nothing is heard of but deferution and confusion.
The Duc de Choiseul, it seems, is again at his old work, endeavouring to blow up a flame between England and France.
September 27. The Ministry are in the utmost state of anxiety to know whether the American Congress was held, and what measures General Gage has taken, and what has ensued.
CONSTANTINOPLE [Capital of the Turkish Empire] August 17. It is said that a Russian man of war has taken a French vessel coming from Cyprus, with 225,000 Piasters which belonged to the late Grand Vizir.
WARSAW, [Capital of Poland] Sept. 14. It is reported here that 20,000 Austrian troops have entered Walachia.
LONDON, Sept. 28. The household of the Prince of Wales, it is said, would have been established before this time, had he not himself opposed it: He is unwilling that any thing of that kind should take place until he has made more progress in his studies, in order to qualify him to behave in a manner that may reflect both honour and virtue on those concerned in his education.
No sooner has the Empress of Russia concluded an advantageous peace with her enemies the Turks, but that peace is disturbed by domestic feuds; her people, on its being noised about that she had made a peace with the Turks that would be very conducive to their happiness, are, one and all, standing on tip-toe, gaping in expectation of being made the most comfortable people in the world; but as that comfortable happiness is not yet arrived, according to their wishes, murmurings and discontentments have taken place, which, if not soon appeased, must certainly be succeeded by a civil war.
The four Americans, who were most instrumental in bringing forth the late odious acts of Parliament, by the advice they gave to the premier, who was glad to avail himself of their hints, we are well informed are all promised very lucrative employments in England.
Several subordinate officers to the commander in chief, it is said, have received orders to embark for America.
It is reported that General Gage has recovered most of the soldiers who had deserted to the Bostonians: The fellows imagined that they would be received with open arms, but when they were turned back as fast as they went. [Mistake!]
A correspondent is of opinion that General Gage has no right to prevent or interrupt the meeting of the provincial Congress; nor constitutionally speaking, neither K—— or P—— can depose him any such power without violating the ideas of their own existence. Parliaments are chosen by assemblies of the people, and are their delegates, and in their collective capacity they are styled the commons of England; we have no commons of America here; if the precedent is a good one, why should it not be followed and imitated by those most concerned, whether it be by the name of Congress, assembly, or any other term best adapted to time, place, and circumstance.
ROME, Sept. 20. This day, as the Pope was returning from church, he was suddenly taken so violently ill, that he was obliged to be taken out of his coach and carried to his apartment. All the foreign ministers spend every three hours to enquire after his health.
VENICE, [Italy] Sept. 6. It is asserted, that an alliance is just concluded between the courts of France and Sardinia.
LONDON, October 1. On Wednesday night a Privy Council was held at the Cockpit, Whitehall, said to be on American affairs, which did not break up till near twelve o'clock.
On Thursday at the election for Lord Mayor at Guildhall, the present Lord Mayor addressed the Livery, as follows:
"Gentlemen of the Livery, after the repeated marks of confidence you have been pleased to confer upon me, a confidence which I esteem the greatest honour of my life, I flatter myself you will add to them the Belief that I consented to be proposed as one of the persons to be returned to the Court of Aldermen for their choice of a chief Magistrate of this city for the year ensuing, from motives, neither of personal vanity, nor private ambition. Such would be highly unbecoming in me, highly ungrateful to you. Permit me therefore to lay before you my real inducements.
"Mr. Wilkes, whose high merit I revere as a citizen, and admire as a friend, I consider as the distinguished choice of the people at large, or of the Livery of London in particular. To effectuate that choice as far as lies in my power, I esteem not only my duty, but my greatest pleasure and honour, especially at a time of so great importance as the present, from the approach of the general election.
"With this view, and with this alone, I submit myself to your pleasure in being again united with that Gentleman.
"We have together been repeatedly honoured by a respectable majority of our fellow citizens.
"The cause in which we are embarked is of the greatest public moment, being in opposition to men and measures, evidently hostile to the
fundamental principles of the English constitution. In such a contest we hope to be thought free from the imputation of factious or ambitious views; and assure yourselves that your success will stand on record an indelible and everlasting witness to the fortitude, the patriotism, and independence of the livery of London.
There have been but two instances since the accession of his late Majesty, of a parliament being dissolved before the expiration of seven years, viz. in 1746, and the present year.
There was but one dissenting voice in the Council, on the measures of dissolving the Parliament.
Notwithstanding all that has appeared in the papers about the non-importation schemes being agreed on in America, it is very well known to those who have been resident on the continent, that America is the last place upon earth where any general association can be supposed effectually to be put in practice. The several provinces have not only very distinct interests from each other, but the several ports and towns in each province have interests and connections that jar to much, that the loss of one town is always looked upon as gain to others in the same district.
Notwithstanding it is so generally believed that the parliament was dissolved to give a colour to the repeal of the Boston act, &c. When the new members assemble; we are told that the M——y have not the least thoughts of repealing those acts, but on the contrary intend going through the American business at all events according to the plan first formed.
It is now expected, that a general change of the ministry will take place before the meeting of Parliament.
The accounts lately received from the courts of Sweden, Vienna, France, and Spain, have been of so perplexing a nature, that a new parliament was become absolutely necessary to advise and assist his Majesty in the present alarming state of affairs.
We hear that his Swedish Majesty will speedily be honoured with the order of the siken halter , his conduct of late having very justly merited such distinction.—Who can help both admiring and applauding the conduct of the man who had deprived millions of subjects of their liberties, and thereby rendered them most abject slaves.
October 3. A gentleman just arrived from Boston reports, that a great man, not much admired by the people in that part of the world, having ordered his men to fire, which they would not do, was shot by the opposite party.
The Scarborough man of war, Captain Chad, from Boston is arrived at Portsmouth.
A correspondent says, Accounts received from Boston by the Scarborough man of war, intimate, that General Gage who was sent upon the duty of his present disagreeable command, contrary to his own inclinations, has desired to be recalled, which brings to mind the following passage by the Baron de Montesquieu.
Charles the ninth having given orders to the Governors of the several provinces for the Hugonots to be slaughtered, Viscount Dore, who commanded at Bayonne, wrote thus to the King:
"SIRE, "Among your Majesty's troops I could not find so much as one executioner; they are brave soldiers, we jointly therefore entreat your Majesty to command our arms and lives in things that are practicable."
Many of the descendants of those very Hugonots, continues this correspondent, are now amongst the first ranks of King George the third's best subjects on the continent of America, striving earnestly to retain that liberty which their virtuous ancestors so dearly purchased. If the hand of power should again so far prevail as to drive them from that shelter to which they were invited, one step more will put them out of the reach of tyrants. General Gage's behaviour on this occasion will tend to open the eyes of administration on more effectually than all the petitions and remonstrances from an American congress, against which prejudice and obstinacy have shut the door; the General's fortune will not be impaired; his glory by such noble behaviour will be enhanced and transmitted with that of the Viscount Dore's to latest posterity.
If the General should retire, his successor will be a Hutchinson, this Lieutenant may be depended upon, like his father, ready to execute any orders.
A private letter from Boston, says, General Gage pays his tradesmen in ready money, and that he is in daily expectation of being recalled, he having sent home to England for that purpose.
A correspondent applauds Lord North upon dissolving the Parliament at this juncture; the affairs of America are brought to a crisis, England must command or strike to her colonies, and that soon; the present resolution is to command, which will furnish numberless pretences to the popular party, and at the eve of a general election might ruin the minister, before his plan is completed; but when the new parliament is met, he will despise all popular cries, and laugh at the feeble rage of the storm, when seven years give him plenty of sea room.
The town was all joy on Friday night at the dissolution of Parliament, the people thinking themselves rid of a senate which has never before had its equal for venality and corruption.
Oct. 4. By certain and indisputable advices from Boston, by a man of war just arrived, it is learnt that General Gage has taken possession of all the gunpowder he could discover there; which is a proof that the new Governor thinks there is something to be feared from the virtuous spirit of the Americans.
A rumour prevails that the Grand Seigneur is poisoned.
Since the meeting of the Congress, the Americans are said to have now one hundred thousand men under arms.
October 5. The little consequence of which the city Chair is considered by the government, is now plainly proved by the particular time of dissolving the late parliament. Had the person of the chief Magistrate been a circumstance of the least moment in the political scale, the dissolution would not have taken place till the present contest for the Mayoralty was decided; but taking place when the return of Members must be at a certainty made before the expiration of Mr. Bull's official character. The ministry seem inclined to let their opponents enjoy all the benefit of his present situation, and therefore the grand object of having a patriot at the head of the city to influence the choice of representatives being thus secure, sedition itself cannot have any plausible pretence for giving Mr. Wilkes's Bull another year's grazing upon the livery.
It was yesterday reported that Lord Camden still continues much indisposed.
The Ministry think that opposition was never at a lower ebb than at present; but it is most likely they will find themselves greatly deceived.—The Duke of Devonshire, Duke of Portland, Sir George Saville, Lord Chatham, Duke of Richmond, Lord Rockingham, and several other noble and patriotic spirited gentlemen, it is whispered, have entered themselves into a society for the support of old English liberty, and the extirpation of tyranny and corruption; and that they will give proofs of their disinterestedness and good intentions, to the great joy of the people of this nation, before Christmas next.
A military auxiliary was sent over to General Gage about a fortnight ago with a very extraordinary commission.
Private letters from Boston mention, that General Gage having taken away the commission of Colonel Hancock, as Colonel of Cadets, the rest of the officers took the standard to him, and resigned that and their commissions. That the persons chosen on the special and Petit Juries at Boston and Salem, had refused to take the oaths to qualify them to act. That the delegates had arrived at New-York, in their way to Philadelphia; and that affairs were in very great confusion when the Scarborough came away.
October 6. On Tuesday night, about nine o'clock, Lord North was robbed in Gunnerbury-lane, by a single highwayman, who ordered the postillion to stop, but not complying with the request the highwayman shot at the postillion and wounded him in the side, and afterwards robbed my Lord of his watch and money, and then rode off. [Would be had robbed him of his—]
We are assured that the dissolution of the last parliament was occasioned by some very disagreeable advices from the courts of France and Spain.
A letter from Boston, shewn about yesterday, mentions, that there has been a town meeting called by the inhabitants at Salem; that General Gage sent them orders to disperse, which they refused, and every thing was in the greatest confusion; but they soon got 10,000 men under arms. However, the General, by some means or other, contrived to seize and get possession of their powder, &c. took several of the ringleaders, and imprisoned them, having refused bail. The letter further adds, that he called a council next day, but not one attended, all refusing their posts which they held under him, so that he was by himself without council.
October 7. Yesterday afternoon, at three o'clock, the poll for Lord Mayor, finally ended at Guildhall, when the numbers were,
For Mr. Wilkes 1957 The Lord Mayor 1923 Sir James Esdaile 1474 Mr. Alderman Kennet 1410
Wednesday came on the election for members of Parliament for Guildford in Surrey, when Sir Fletcher Norton, and George Onslow, Esq; were chosen without opposition.
By advices from different cities and boroughs, very pleasant accounts are received of the industry used on both sides, to prevent bribery and corruption; bread, meat, wine and beer, are watched on both sides as if contraband goods; the agents employed by each candidate are as keen as custom-house officers, and every man that eats or drinks seems to sculk like a smuggler.
October 10. On Saturday there was a large and respectable appearance of the livery of London in common hall assembled, agreeable to public notices, for the purpose of receiving the return of the court of Aldermen for Lord Mayor of this city for the year ensuing.
A little after twelve the Sheriffs came on the hustings, and after the common crier had opened the hall, the common serjeant declared the state of the poll, and reported that the Sheriffs were of opinion, that the election had fallen on John Wilkes, Esq; and the right hon. the Lord Mayor.
The Sheriffs then returned to the court of Aldermen, and about one o'clock they again returned, when the recorder declared the election of the court of Aldermen to have fallen on John Wilkes, Esq; which declaration was returned with repeated shouts of applause.
Mr. Wilkes then came forward, and was invested with the usual insignia of office; after which he addressed the Common-Hall as follows:
THE SPEECH of the LORD MAYOR elect, JOHN WILKES, Esq; to the COMMON-HALL, October 8, 1775.
"GENTLEMEN, "PERMIT me to return you my most hearty thanks for the greatest honour a subject can receive, the being called by the voice of free citizens to the chief magistracy of the metropolis of the British empire. The first idea which must

arise in a noble mind, is, that one important and extensive powers and authority with which I am intrusted by you, are delegated to me only for your good and the general benefit. You have enlarged my powers of being useful to you, and constituted me the first guardian of our common rights and franchises. Give me leave to assure you that so far from harbouring the impious thought of invading your liberties myself, I shall think it my duty always, firmly and boldly to stand forth against the enemies of public and legal freedom. In this noble cause I will most readily join you, and in all salutary measures, for the preservation, or improvement of the constitution of our country, and for the welfare of the capital. I shall therefore most certainly call common halls and common councils, on all important occasions at your requisition.
Gentlemen of the Livery, As chief magistrate of the first city in the world, I promise you an upright and regular administration of the public justice, and I rely with confidence on your favourable acceptance of my sincere and zealous endeavours in your service. On Saturday night a messenger was sent away from the admiralty with dispatches for General Gage at Boston, to be forwarded by the Scarborough man of war, lately arrived from that province.
From the LONDON GAZETTEER , of Sept. 20. To the PRINTER . Secretary of State's Office, Sept. 19, 1774. SIR, IN consequence of a paragraph in your paper of this day, which you say you are called upon to insert by your correspondent who favoured you with the copy of a letter published in your paper of Tuesday last, and introduced as a letter recently received by a noble lord in high office from an officer in America, lately sent thither on a very important command, I am again directed by lord Dartmouth, to desire you will, in his name, and by his authority, inform your readers that no such letter has ever been received by his lordship. I am, Sir, your most obedient servant, J. POWNALL.
THURSDAY, December 1. BOSTON. By the last vessel from England we have it from undoubted authority that the members of both Houses who are friends to America, have frequently communications, for the purpose of dropping their private misunderstandings, and uniting in the public cause, which at present needs their joint assistance, since a breach with America, hazarded by the late harsh measures, may be ruinous to the general welfare of the British Empire, and notwithstanding it has been industriously represented that Lord Chatham has deserted our cause, it may be certainly depended upon by the public, that the contrary is the truth, and that his sentiments are such as America could wish.
Five thousand people have embarked at Greenock since the month of March for America. By late accounts from England, brought by Capt. Shepherd (exclusive of what was published in our paper before) we learn, that associations were forming in more than twenty counties there, to chuse such persons only for members of Parliament as will support the American cause. The sudden dissolution of Parliament occasioned a great shock to all rank of people in England; and it was generally thought the new Parliament will be for redressing the American grievances.
In the London papers for September is published the proceedings of the provincial Congress of New-Jersey; the arrival of lieutenant Governor Oliver's commission, and an account of the swearing in of twelve gentlemen as councillors, appointed by his Majesty's mandamus; the appointment and departure of the gentlemen who were to represent this province in the grand American Congress; and an address from the justices of the inferior court of common pleas for the county of Essex, &c.
Extract of a letter from Portsmouth, in England, dated October 4.
Since the Scarborough man of war has arrived from Boston, not one of the men have been suffered to come on shore, neither are their friends permitted to go on board. The ship is anchored at some distance from any other, and so careful are the officers to keep every thing secret, that when any provision is sent on board they stand on the side of the ship to prevent any conversation passing between the people that carry it and the crew, from which it is conjectured that things are worse at Boston than government are willing the public should be acquainted with. The men in the yards are ordered to work double tides, to get some ships ready for sea as soon as possible: it is said that they are to relieve the guardships, which are to come into dock to be cleared and victualled for a long voyage: By all the appearance here we are at the eve of a war.
Extract of a letter from London, dated October 4. The people here now seem to be heartily sick of the measures that have been taken against your port and province, and I hear the ministry do not know which way to steer; they are loath to give up their tyrannical power, but they must if the colonies are sedate. The news in your papers makes all the court party look blue. We do not yet know the contents of General Gage's express. The friends of America increase fast. Petitions are forming in all parts of the kingdom in favour of America. We are all impatient to know the result of the Congress. If the colonies are firm for one year, and neither import nor export, it would establish American freedom, for this country cannot support itself without the colonies.
We have several other extracts from letters from London, to the same purpose of the above. Every colony now seems to be putting into execution the measures recommended by the Grand Congress. It is reported, that transports are failed from England to Ireland, in order to take in troops for Boston. The Provincial Congress continues sitting at Cambridge. Nothing has yet transpired.
Thirteen of the Adjudges in Ma. Ushada, to Natchitoches, have in the last Essex Gazette, renounced their city principal. A List of the addresses to Hutchinson, with an account of their "Resolutions and relations," with a proper introduction was published in the London Gazetteer, of September 22, and is this day re-published and sold by D. KNEELAND, in Queen-Street. The late Grand Continental Congress at Philadelphia, among other of their proceedings, prepared an address and petition to his Majesty (which will not be published till it is presented to him) copies of which petition, &c. and of a letter to the colony agents in London, were directed to be delivered to each of the speakers of the provincial Assemblies, in America, to be by them transmitted to the said agents in London, who are desired to request the assistance and support of such Noblemen and Gentlemen as were favourably disposed towards the British American Colonies, in order to get the said address and petition printed, &c. and to cause it to be published. The following is a copy of the letter to the agents:
GENTLEMEN, Philadelphia, October 26, 1774. WE give you the strongest proof of our reliance on your zeal and attachment to the happiness of America and the cause of liberty, when we commit the enclosed paper to your care. We desire you will deliver the petition into the hands of his Majesty, and after it has been presented, we wish it may be made public through the press, together with the list of grievances. And as we hope for great assistance from the spirit, virtue and justice of the nation, it is our earnest desire, that the most effectual care be taken, as early as possible, to furnish the trading cities and manufacturing towns throughout the united kingdoms, with our memorial to the people of Great-Britain.
We doubt not, but your good sense and discernment will lead you to avail yourselves of every assistance that may be derived from the advice and friendship of all great and good men, who may incline to aid the cause of liberty and mankind. The gratitude of America expressed in the enclosed vote of thanks, we desire may be conveyed to the deserving objects of it, in the manner that you think will be most acceptable to them. It is proposed that another Congress be held on the 10th of May next at this place, but in the mean time we beg the favour of you, gentlemen, to transmit to the Speakers of the several assemblies, the earliest information of the most authentic accounts, you can collect, of all such conduct and designs of the ministry or Parliament, as may concern America to know. We are with unfeigned esteem and regard, gentlemen, &c. By order and in behalf of the congress, HENRY MIDDLETON, President.
To Paul Wentworth, Esq; Doctor Benjamin Franklin, William Bollen, Esq; Doctor Arthur Lee, Thomas Life, Esq; Edmund Burke, Esq; Charles Garth, Esq. The Congress also prepared a letter to the people of the colonies of St. John's, Nova-Scotia, Georgia, East and West Florida, who had not deputies to represent them in the congress. Of this letter, the following is a copy.
GENTLEMEN, Philadelphia, October 22, 1774. THE present critical and truly alarming state of American affairs, having been considered in a general congress of deputies from the colonies of New-Hampshire, Massachusetts-Bay, Rhode-Island and Providence plantations, Connecticut, New-York, New-Jersey, Pennsylvania, New-Castle, Kent and Sussex, on Delaware; Maryland, Virginia, North-Carolina, and South-Carolina; with that attention and mature deliberation, which the important nature of the case demands; they have determined for themselves, and the colonies they represent on the measures contained in the enclosed papers; which measures they recommend to your colony to be adopted with all the earnestness, that a well directed zeal for American liberty can prompt.
So rapidly violent and unjust has been the late conduct of the British Administration against the colonies, that either a base and slavish submission, under the loss of their ancient just and constitutional liberty, must quickly take place, or an adequate opposition be formed. We pray God to take you under his protection, and to preserve the freedom and happiness of the whole British empire. By order of the Congress. HENRY MIDDLETON, President.
The following is a letter from our worthy brethren of Durham in the province of New-Hampshire; we have received many others from the towns in this and the other colonies, breasting the same sympathy, generosity and regard for liberty, which the public papers, have not had room for, though they are all carefully preserved and may shortly for the honour of America be made public. Durham in New-Hampshire, Nov. 21. 1774.
GENTLEMEN, WE take pleasure in transmitting to you, by Mr. Scamell, a few cattle, with a small sum of money; which a number of persons in this place, tenderly sympathizing with our suffering brethren in Boston, have contributed towards their support. With this, or soon after, you will receive the donation of a number in Lee, a parish lately set off from this town; and in a few days, those of Dover, Newmarket, and other adjacent towns.
What you herewith receive, comes not from the opulent, but mostly from the industrious Yeomanry in this parish. We have out few persons of affluent fortunes among us; but those who have most cheerfully contributed to the relief of the distressed in your metropolis. This is considered by us, not as a gift, or an act of charity, but of justice—as a small part, of what we are in duty bound to communicate, to those truly noble and patriotic advocates of American freedom, who are bravely standing in the gap between us and slavery—defending the common interest of a whole continent—and gloriously struggling in the cause of liberty.
Upon the eyes of all America are fixed—upon your invincible patience, fortitude and resolution (under God) depends, all that is dear to them and their posterity. May that superintendent, gracious being, whose ears are ever open to the cries of the oppressed, in answer to the incessant prayers of his people, defend our just cause—turn the counsels of our enemies into foolishness—deliver us from the hands of our oppressors; and make those very measures, by which they are endeavouring to compass our destruction, the means of fixing our inviolable rights and privileges, upon a more firm and lasting basis.
While with the most painful sensations we reflect; that prior to the commencement of the evils which now surround us, supineness, and inattention to our common interest, had so far prevailed, as almost wholly to sink in luxury and dissipation, the inhabitants of these colonies; we are bound to acknowledge the divine wisdom and goodness, which by these calamities roused us from our lethargy, and taught us to defend those inestimable liberties, which otherwise must have been forever lost to us and our posterity; and to excite his determination to save America, directed the attacks of our enemies to that quarter, where the virtue and firmness of the inhabitants, could brave the blasts of military tyrants, and set at defiance the threats of an exasperated and despotic minister.
We are pleased to find, that the methods by which the ministry sought to divide, have happily united us;—and by every new act of oppression, more and more strengthened the union.—And we can, with truth, assure you, gentlemen, that, in this quarter we are engaged, to a man, in your defence, and in defence of the common cause.—We are ready to communicate of our substance, largely as your necessities require; and with our estates to give our lives; and mingle our blood with yours, in the common sacrifice to liberty: and since we have no asylum on earth, to which we may fly, before we will submit to wear the chains of slavery, a profligate and arbitrary ministry are preparing for us, we are determined upon an emigration through the gate of death, in hope of inheriting the fair land of promise, and participating with our forefathers, in the glorious liberties of the sons of God.
That heaven may support you, under your distressing circumstances, and send you a speedy and happy deliverance from your present troubles, is the earnest prayer of gentlemen, your cordial friends, and very humble servants. JOHN ADAMS, JOHN SULLIVAN, Committee.
A late meeting of the Miller of New-York (in support of the proceedings of the continental Congress) they unanimously resolved—To sell no molasses or syrups that may hereafter be imported from any of the British West-India Islands, or from Dominica. Nor to sell any rum, or other spirits, for the purpose of carrying on the slave trade, or that they shall have reason to apprehend it is intended to be so applied.
Monday 16th night in the storm, Capt. Ackworth, bound from Newfoundland for Salem, arrived at Cape-Ann, from whence we hear he sent his letters and a number of bills to this place, and failed a few hours before the storm for Newbury-Port, but the storm increased to such a degree, that his vessel was call-away, which, with the cargo, himself, mate, some passengers, &c. were lost. Only two hands we hear were saved. Several vessels were drove ashore at Newbury-Port, and others laying at the wharves, greatly damaged. We fear of hearing further damage. DONATIONS received since our last. From the county of Litchfield (in Connecticut) 161. 3/02. and 51 head cattle. From Colchester, 94 sheep and 5 cattle. From Fairfield, 750 bushels grain. Of Mr. Sylvanus How of Peterham, eleven quarters of mutton, 123 lb. weight.
Extract of a letter from Providence, Nov. 16. A very awful affair happened in this town last evening: A journeyman barber, having indulged himself too freely in drinking, became very abusive in the street, and attacked a labouring man, whom he wounded with a club:—This affair happened the well side of the great-bridge, near to a hatter's shop, in which was a young man at work; who hearing the noise, armed himself with a club, and went out to assist the labourer, and unhappily struck the barber on the head, which brought him to the ground; he was taken up, and carried into a neighbouring house, and had the assistance of a surgeon—but means were unsuccessful, he expired in the night:—And this morning the young man, who gave the fatal blow, filled with unutterable distress, voluntarily resigned himself into the hands of justice.
Last Monday Night, Mr. Nathan Folsom, of Newmarket, perished with the col, in a gundelow laden with boards, in that place. MARRIED. Mr. William Winter, aged 70, to Miss Nabby Waller, aged 18.—Rev. Mr. Jonathan Newell of Stow, to Miss Sally Fife of Watertown. At Marblehead, Major John Peck to Miss Swasey.
DIED. Miss Jenny Watts.—Miss Nancy Clark.—Mrs. Mary Soper.—Black Jack (commonly called one legged Jack) a free Negro, and a noted lemon-seller, in town.—In the almshouse, Mrs. Parker.—Mrs. Bowman and Mrs. Moore.—At Roxbury, after a short illness, Mrs. Increase Sumner.—At Newbury-Port, Mrs. Mary Atkins, aged 84, relict of the late Joseph Atkins, Esq; of that place. She was youngest daughter of Joseph Dudley, Esq; many years governor of this province, and granddaughter of Thomas Dudley, Esq; who was also several years governor under the first Charter.—At Milton Mrs. Sarah Adams, wife of Mr. John Adams. Last Tuesday died after a long confinement, Mr. Nathaniel Homes, aged 74. His funeral is to be on Friday next, at half after three o'clock, when his friends and acquaintance are requested to attend.
NEW-YORK, November 17. Extract of a letter dated at Quebec, October 30. A committee is arrived here from the English inhabitants in Montreal, who have met a committee of the inhabitants of this place, and are drawing up a petition to his Majesty, against the act of parliament for regulating the government of this province, and hope they will meet with success.
November 21. A letter from Philadelphia of Nov. 17, 1774, says, Yesterday came to town a man from Pittsburgh, and says Lord Dunmore has had a meeting with the Indians and made peace, demanding nothing more than the returning of any white persons they have among them, and such horses as they stole from the Frontiers.
Capt. Hunt, from Charlestown in South-Carolina, informs us, that the ship Britannia, Capt. Ball, arrived there from London a few days before he failed, and that a passenger who came into the vessel had in a clandestine manner got on board 8 chests of tea, which the Capt. on his arrival made known to the committee, who soon caused the gentleman to order his India commodity to be thrown into the sea; that Capt. Moore arrived there from Philadelphia the 4th of Nov. with the Delegates from the Congress, who were received by their fellow citizens with the ringing of bells, &c. and that on the fifth of November the inhabitants of Charlestown gave up most of the tea they had in their houses to be burnt in one general bonfire.
SALEM, November 20. We hear that the Scarborough man of war arrived in England from Boston, about the 3d of October, and was dispatched back for the same place in four days afterward. Matters were kept a profound secret. PHILADELPHIA, November 25. Before the departure of the Boston Delegates from this city, Joseph Ellis paid into the hands of the Hon. Thomas Cushing, Esq; Five hundred and thirty-four Dollars, being a subscription, raised in Gloucester County, New-Jersey, and sent by them for the use of the besieged Bostonians.
The following extract from a law of this Province, for the suppressing of Drunkenness, &c. is printed by order of the Select-men, that no one when prosecuted, for the breach of said law, may plead ignorance as an excuse.
BE it therefore enacted by the Lieutenant-Governor, Council and Representatives in General Court assembled, and by the authority of the same, that from and after the publication hereof, every person and persons now licensed, or that shall hereafter obtain licence to retail wine and strong liquors to be spent out of doors, and not otherwise, who shall be convicted of entertaining or suffering any person or persons to sit
drinking or tipling in their Houses, Cellars, Backyards or within any of the dependencies of such Houses, or of selling any other sort of drink than what they have licence for, shall incur and suffer the like Penalties and forfeitures as may by law be inflicted upon persons selling without licence, to be recovered and employed in manner as by the said law is directed."
TO-MORROW MORNING, At TEN o'clock, Will be sold by PUBLIC VENDUE , At the house of the late Capt. JONATHAN CLARKE, in Long-Lane, ALL the House Furniture of the said deceased, amongst which are, Tables, chairs, Looking-Glass, Feather Bed, Bedsteads and bedding, a good eight-day clock, Glass and China Ware, Kitchen Furniture, &c. N. B. The Furniture may be viewed the day before the sale.
New Auction-Room, Dock-Square. TO-MORROW MORNING, at TEN o'clock, At HUNTER'S Auction-Room, Will be Sold at PUBLIC VENDUE , A LARGE Assortment of English Goods as usual, and a quantity of Indigo. Also, Twenty Pieces of damaged IRISH LINEN. W. HUNTER, Auctioneer.
AS the appearance of the small-pox in this town has given rise to various reports, the public are hereby informed, that last Monday night five children in a house occupied by a soldier of the 59th regiment, were seized with that disorder, all of whom were sent only the next morning to the hospital at New-Boston, as was a soldier of the same regiment the day following:—These are the only persons in town who have the infection, and are all in a way of recovery. Upon a strict enquiry made through the regiment by order of the governor, no one has been found infected, which appears to have even the symptoms of that disorder. The rumor that some soldiers or their children were to be circumcised is without foundation; such a measure being forbidden on pain of his Excellency's highest displeasure. It is supposed this disease was taken from a child brought from New-York in one of the transports, which did a fortnight ago; and the public may be assured that the greatest care will be taken to prevent a communication of the infection. By order of the Selectmen, WILLIAM COOPER, Town-Clerk.
To be SOLD, On Mr. John Peck's Wharf, near Bull's wharf, BARNABY FITT COALS, Cheshire CHEESE, and Welsh BUTTER. N. B. The above Coals are the best in all England for Blacksmiths.
ALL Persons indebted to the Estate of the late Mr. WILLIAM MOLINEUX, deceased. Also all Persons who had Demands on, or were indebted to him at time of death, are desired to make them known, and to pay their respective dues to the subscriber, who is fully empowered to adjust and receive the same. THOMAS APHROP.
THERE is exposed to sale, the homestead FARM of CONSIDER DREW, lying in Duxborough at a place called the Captain's Nook, consisting of between 30 or 40 acres of good land, with a large Dwelling-house, and that they are disposed to be sold together with a good channel that comes within 30 or 40 rods of the house, as good a harbour, and building yard, with a good and convenient place to make Fish as any in the county of Plymouth; and all the appurtenances thereunto belonging, together with a small wharf, are in good repair, excepting a widow's right of dower, or thirds thereon, during her natural life. November 10th, 1774.
For Charlestown, (S. Carolina) The SHIP HUGER , A good vessel, burthen 250 Tons, will be ready to take in freight at Salem, by the 10th, and sail the 15th of December. Apply to JOHN GRAY, at Miss Minoit's in Queen-Street, Boston, or to JOHN & JONATHAN STIMPSON. To be SOLD.
A FEW Chaldrons of choice smiths COAL, at eight dollars the Chaldrón. Enquire of JOHN HOOTON, Oar-maker, in Fifth-Street, near Dr. Clark's.
RAN away from his master, the 25th inst. a servant lad, named JOHN TUCKER, about 19 years of age, about five feet high, of a dark complexion, short black curled hair, is their fee. Carried with him, a blue serge coat, light serge jacket, with brass buttons, crimson plush breeches, with white buttons. Whoever shall take up said run-away, and convey him to the subscriber shall have TWO DOLLARS reward and all necessary charges paid by JOHN DANE.
All persons are cautioned against concealing or carrying a said servant, as they would avoid the penalty of the law. Gloucester, November 26, 1774.
RAN away from the subscriber, the 26th inst. an apprentice lad, named NATHANIEL BENNET, about nineteen years of age, about five feet, six inches high, had on a chocolate coloured coat, striped jacket, and blue breeches. Whoever will take up said Run-away, and confine and secure him, or return him to his Master at Gloucester, shall have THREE DOLLARS reward, and all necessary charges paid. SOLOMON PARSONS, jun. All Masters of vessels and others, are hereby cautioned against concealing, carrying off, or employing said Run-away, as they would avoid the penalty of the law. Gloucester, Novem. 28th 1774.
PUBLIC VENDUE. DAM KERR, hereby informs his Friends and the Public, that he has Opened a Vendue Room, North-side of the Town-Dock, (the same which Mr. Archibald Bowman formerly occupied in that business) and is now ready for the Reception of Household Furniture and Merchandise. All those who are pleased to favour him with their employment, either at public or private Sale, shall find that he will act in that Station with integrity, fidelity and dispatch.