The Massachusetts spy, or, Thomas's Boston journal (Boston [Mass.]), 1774-05-26 00:00:00

SATURDAY, May 21. BOSTON.
By the Ship Sampson, Capt. Coupar, arrived at New-York, we have the following Intelligence from the public Papers and from private Letters, viz.
WARSAW, [Capital of Poland] March 17.
THEY write from Constantinople, that the standard of Mahomet has been erected there, as a sign that the Grand Sultan himself is going to the war, in order to defend the Empire and the religion. If this should be the case, the Russians will certainly have a very bad chance. They add, that their fleet consists at present of near 200 sail, and their seamen are very well disciplined; their commanders are chiefly Frenchemen, so that the Russian fleet will be hardly able to resist them.
CONSTANTINOPLE, [Capital of the Turkish Empire.] February 3.
Immediately on the death of the late Grand Signior on the 21st past, the great officers were called into the Seraglio; upon their arrival the present Grand Signior was conducted out of his apartments, in which he has been confined forty-four years, into the apartments of his deceased brother, and after viewing the corpse, he retired to a throne erected for him, where the great officers were permitted to kiss his garment. The late Grand Signior was interred in the Mosque of Laleli Janessi, four hours after his death. On Thursday the 27th, the day appointed for what is called here the coronation, the procession by land was very numerous and magnificent to the Mosque of Ejup, where the sword was girded on the Grand Signior by the Nabih Effendi, or head of the Emir, Vicar to the Sheikh of Conia; from thence he returned by water to the Seraglio: One hundred and twenty Frank vessels contributed greatly to the show by saluting the Sultan as he passed.
Constantinople, [Capital of Turkey] February 11. We are making great preparations for the opening of the campaign. The Grand Vizier's army is to be reinforced with 42,000 men. It is assured that the Grand Signior has found 60 millions of piasters in the Treasury of his predecessor.
LONDON.
March 22. By the most accurate accounts from North America it appears, that the British inhabitants on that continent amount to near three millions and a half.
March 24. It seems most, if not all, the Tea sent to America had been several times put up at the Company's files without any bidder; and, if the report is true, that some of the Directors have said it was pity the whole had not shared the same fate with that thrown into the sea, the Bostonians, therefore, cannot have much to pay.
Whipsters are current that the Irish begin to espouse the cause of the Americans, and numbers are shipping themselves off daily for Boston, notwithstanding the people of that place are in such a critical situation.
Lord Viscount Pitt, eldest Son of the Earl of Chatham, having been appointed an Ensign in the 47th Regiment of Foot, in North America, is now preparing to set out for Quebec in order to join his Regiment.
March 27. It is said that the French and Spaniards have absolutely declared their resolution of joining the Turks. The Family Compact has at last thrown off the mask, and discovered what the knowing politicians have long suspected from the intrigues of the French Court.
March 28. We are assured, from good authority, that great preparations are now making all over the kingdom of France, in both the military and naval departments. The Duc d'Aguillon is indefatigable in an unmerited attention to public affairs, as well in his frequent cabinet conferences at Versailles, as a constant communication with all the inferior Ministers of Council, War, and Marine.
An order has been issued within these few days at Versailles, which shuts up every port from Calais to Bayonne, so far that no person whatever is permitted to leave the kingdom without a Royal pass, signed by the Secretary of State.
March 29. Nothing is now spoke of at Paris but War; the military gentlemen are all in the highest spirits, but the intentions of the Court are entirely confined within the circle of the Cabinet; nothing whatever, relative to the objects of deliberation, having as yet transpired.
Accounts say, or at least it is shrewdly conjectured, that the warlike preparations now going forward in France are intended against the Russians.
April 6. Lord Chatham has declared his disapprobation of several measures that have been taken in the present administration, and has declared that he will open the eyes of many persons that are members of St. Stephen's chapel.
A constant reader says, that all persons who favour the drooping the Bostonians, indicate as little sound policy as they do of humanity; what a savage disposition must they be, who can be gratified with nothing less than the unnatural butchery of their fellow subjects, by recommending the horrors of the sword; such would, no doubt, have been joyful spectators of the French and Irish massacres, and have chuckled at the carnage.
April 7. A correspondent observes, that the North-American charters, like other literary lumber, will soon be declared no tangible substances.
April 8. General Paoli, it is reported, has lately refused the offer of an employment in America.
Governor Hutchinson, as soon as he arrived here, report says, will be knighted, and also be promoted to a considerable post in administration.
General Gage, 'tis said, has the most extensive Commission with that ever any Governor or Commander was invested with; but from the known humanity of that gentleman, there is no reason to fear that he will make any farther use of it than what duty and justice prompts him to.
April 9. A transport is ordered round to Portsmouth, to take immediately on board all the officers that are absent from their regiments in North-America.
We are informed that the four following regiments have received orders from the War-office to hold themselves in readiness to embark for Boston upon the shortest notice, viz. the 4th, 5th, 38th, and 43d, and that all the officers (notwithstanding many of them had obtained leave of absence) have received orders to join their respective corps immediately.
A gentleman who has communicated the following, for the authenticity of which we desire not to be considered as answerable:—An happy expedient has been hit upon for reconciling the difference between Great-Britain and America, which must afford singular satisfaction to every free born Briton, as, from such conciliating measures the greatest and most firm peace, concord, harmony and friendship, will be re-established between the mother country and her colonies; for which purpose Lord George Germaine will be speedily sent to America, in the character of Lord Lieutenant, by which means America will enjoy all the same benefits as Ireland, where the happiness flowing from such mode of government has long been sufficiently experienced, and is too well known to require any annotations. And what good effects may not be hoped for, and expected, from the illustrious character of the person intended for this great and important part, if we consider his truly great abilities! and how easy and expeditious will be the communication between New-York and all the colonies on the continent, and how soon may aid and assistance there be had on all occasions, from all parts! whereas the intercourse between England and America must ever be long, tedious and uncertain.
The French are so tender of their colonies, that they not only exempt them from taxes, but permit them to import their sugars, and other commodities, in France, free from all tribute to the Crown.
The restoring Lord George Germaine, and appointing him to a very high post in North-America, were under Scotch contemplation not many days ago, which accounts for the fulsome stuff passed soon after between his Lordship and the Premier, on a subject respecting which they were both out of their depth; it equally accounts for their dialogue being so puffed off in the news-papers, by the hired Scotch scribblers.
Yesterday, in the afternoon, a process from the Court of King's Bench, was served at Mr. Cox's, the agent, in Albermarle-street, upon Gen. Gage, to answer for an outrage committed some time ago, upon the person of Major Rogers.
Extracts of private Letters from London, dated April 7 and 8; to Persons in New-York and Philadelphia.
"With the most anxious and deep concern, I sit down to give you some account of the bitter things that are meditated against America, and through her against England itself, and that constitution, by which it has long been distinguished among the nations, as a land of freedom and happiness, and an asylum against tyranny and oppression—A distinction, alas! that now subsists no more! and must be forever lost—unless kind Providence should interpose, to save us from that slavery and darkness, which has well nigh over-spread the face of the whole earth. America, the last resort of retiring Freedom, is now to be invaded, and the fugitive driven from her peaceful recesses there, that so the may find no resting place on this side Heaven.
"A plan of despotism and arbitrary power, has incessantly been pursued, during the present reign; through all the ministerial changes and manoeuvres, that has still been the grand object in view; and may explain all those intricate movements of government, which otherwise appear quite mysterious and unaccountable; especially with regard to the colonies, it may account for that obstinate perseverance in measures palpably inconsistent with every principle of the English constitution, of justice, and of common sense; which have been attended with almost infinite expense, trouble and difficulty, both to the colonies and Great-Britain itself; when at the same time a plain, easy and certain way to peace, harmony and prosperity lies so open before us, that none can mistake it, and yet offers itself in vain. An absolute, arbitrary government, has infinite charms for a multitude of haughty luxurious parasites and flatterers that ever abound a throne and hope to share with its tyrannizing over the people and robbing on their spoils. No wonder that such as these should prevail on a young Monarch to be pleased with, to countenance and adopt their plan. Unlimited power is generally a most desirable object, especially to youth and inexperience—and few are distrustful of themselves, or imagine that it would be unwise in their hands.
"In England almost every obnoxious to the execution of this plan, is removed; places of high trust and importance, are bestowed upon those who will act in subserviency to the views of the court; those who might impede those views, are divested of power, and disabled from any effectual opposition. Experience has shewn, that the pensions and places in the gift of the Crown have as great an influence on the nobility, whose estates might set them above dependence, as upon common men—for luxury is boundless, and can render the possessor of the greatest estate as needy as a beggar, and as vulnerable to the influence of a bribe. As for the Commons, those natural guardians of the liberties and properties of the people, though there are many worthy men among them, who do their utmost to stem the torrent of corruption, and preserve their country; yet their number is too small to answer the end: The eloquence of Cicero, the most consummate knowledge of the interests of their country, and zeal for its service, the greatest abilities and integrity, are all rendered entirely useless by a corrupt majority of ministerial tools, who vote just as they are directed: This House, therefore, which used to be the bulwark of the people's security, serves now only to give the form of appearance of legality to acts of real tyranny and oppression, by which they are deprived of their liberty and property. A great majority of the house are returned by little venal boroughs, bribed, by the nation's own money, to elect such men as the Ministry chooses, and afterwards command to vote as they please. A friend well acquainted with the internal state of Great-Britain, assures me, "that many boroughs in the kingdom have scarce 10 persons qualified to vote for a representative in parliament, and that all who are qualified are under the influence of some Nobleman, or Squire, who, if he has no person of his own family to put in, transfers the election, or rather nomination, to such adventurers as choose to purchase a seat as a means of climbing the hill of preferment. In some places there is not even the shadow of an election or town-meeting.—The sovereign, bailiffs, or rather returning officers, with two or three burghers, go privately to the session house, and in a moment name such a one, as duly elected, without the appearance of a candidate.
"What a farce are such transactions, when the liberties of the people are thus played away at a game, wherein a corrupt government, and an ambitious covetous landlord are the only gainers!" All things being thus ripe in England for the open introduction of arbitrary power, nothing seems to have prevented it, but the struggles of the Americans to preserve their liberties. These struggles have been doubly mortifying to the ministry, as they have thereby been not only prevented from levying a revenue upon America, but from executing their scheme, in its full extent upon England. And unless that scheme be very soon executed, it is in danger of being blown up entirely; for matters have risen to such a crisis, the uneasiness and distress of the nation are become so general, that some violent commotion seems inevitable, and near at hand; and if a revolution should happen, and fail to establish despotism in England, it would probably be fatal to those who have attempted to introduce it. The most strenuous efforts therefore will now be made, both by force and fraud to reduce the Americans to a conformity with the measures of the ministry, who are enraged and distracted at the obstructions they meet with from that quarter.
"I therefore earnestly warn you to firmness and vigilance, every art will be used, both to intimidate, and to deceive you, may God direct you to be wise and faithful to yourselves and to your country, and crown your endeavours with success. You have every thing at stake that can be dear to reasonable creatures; your freedom, your property, your posterity, your honour.—The very ministry who are striving to enslave you, in spite of themselves, both honour and fear you; but if they succeed against you, will despise and spurn you.
"About a fortnight ago an act of parliament of a most extraordinary kind, to shut up the port of Boston, was passed in a most extraordinary manner, being smuggled through the House, in 17 days only from its introduction. The evidence before the Privy Council was suppressed, the agents refused a hearing at the bar, and no member for Boston or America in either House. Nor had the merchants and manufacturers in England, who will be deeply affected by the execution of this act, any proper notice of it, or opportunity to remonstrate against it. Indeed it is openly said that many a thousand pounds were issued from the Treasury to obtain a majority in the House, and hurry it through before there should be time for opposition: So that when a body of merchants trading to Boston and America, waited on Lord North with a request that a petition might be heard against the bill, before it passed into a law; they had the mortification to find they were too late, and that the bill had already passed. As his Majesty has, by the act, a conditional power to suspend its operation, in case the tea destroyed at Boston should be paid for, the merchants offered Lord North 19,000l. or a security to the India Company, to pay for the tea, if that suspension of the act might be procured from his Majesty. But these offers were refused, and the merchants went away much dissatisfied—as thinking people are in general, against the proceedings of the Ministry, especially in respect to this law, and the manner of getting it passed, which was with as much privacy and haste as possible, so that it is hardly yet known in the manufacturing towns which will be hurt by it. It is expected to raise great clamour and uneasiness as soon as it comes to be generally known, and felt by the labouring people, and the trade, the stoppage of which, it is imagined, in a few months will convince the Ministry they have acted wrong.
"Another new bill, as extraordinary as the Boston bill, only more general in its operation, is in agitation, in the Privy Council; and like the Boston bill it is intended to be smuggled through the House. God grant it may be
stopped in its progress, or defeated of its design. It is expected here that America will be surprised or frightened into a compliance with it, by the intended alarming clauses in it, and the spirited manner of enforcing it.
"God give you vigilance, fortitude, and wisdom to avoid the snares laid for you, and enable you to escape them.
"General Gage is appointed Governor and Commander in Chief of Massachusetts Bay, with very extensive powers. Under him are to be a set of officers, approved by the Ministry, to be made Councillors, and enforce the parliamentary laws, with the (apparent) consent of the people.
In short, every art will be used to deceive you, and either cheat or frighten you out of your freedom and property: However, I can assure you the commanders have private orders not to fight, unless they can provoke you to appear the aggressors,—nay they have orders not to commence hostilities, without further orders. But how soon that restriction may be taken off, God only knows; nor do I think that it was from any regard to justice, or tenderness to you, that such a restraint was laid; but purely from fear of the consequences of sanguinary orders: Therefore I think, if you are firm and prudent, you have no occasion at this time, to fear any tragical consequences from a refusal to be taxed by the British parliament, who have really no right at all to tax you;—not that I would persuade you to this refusal merely upon a supposition, that the ministry will not proceed to hostile and sanguinary measures—for my opinion is, that there is nothing too absurd or wicked for them to do; but that if they should proceed to such measures, it will be better for you to die than to submit to them: However as your cause is just, and all the world must see that you are injured and oppressed, your oppressors will be condemned by all the world, both at home and abroad; and if you are but firm and prudent in your opposition, fear not but providence will interpose in your behalf, and raise you up friends to support and assist you. Some of the greatest and wisest, as well as best men in England, are already on your side, and will stand by you; your enemies have nothing but mere power, unjustly obtained, and applied, to support their cause; reason and justice are altogether against them; they therefore stand on slippery ground, and totter in their stations. Lord Camden, expected himself nobly in the House of Lords, in your favour—He told them the Boston bill would be productive of a train of evils, and that they would certainly have cause to repent it. Great care is taken to prevent copies of his speech from getting to America, as well as to deceive you by false intelligence. Every tool of power in America will be called upon, and furnished with means to mislead you by a misrepresentation of facts, and giving a false turn and colouring to every thing that it concerns you to know. Six hundred pounds per annum, are paid to writers of false intelligence; and letters as well as news papers, that might give you such intelligence as the ministry desire to conceal from you, are all stopped.
It is given out that severe measures are only intended against Boston, to punish their refractory conduct; but depend upon it, if they succeed against Boston, the like measures will be extended to every colony in America; they only begin with Boston, hoping the other colonies will not interpose. But you are all to be visited in turn, and devoured one after another. You may depend upon my intelligence—my office gives me access to the principals, concerned in the measures, and I think it my duty to warn the innocent against the wicked devices that I know to be meditated against them. It behoves the colonies, to be united, in their intelligence, councils and measures; it is a matter of the last importance to them, to stand by and support one another; the most favoured can only expect to be last devoured. The ministry are determined to try your metal to the utmost. Mansfield and Bute are supposed to be the prime directors, and to influence the royal ear as they please. The spoils of England are insufficient to support the luxury of the minions of power, they have fixed their voracious appetites upon the possessions of the Americans, and intend to make a prey of them, in defiance of reason and justice, of the charters of kings, and the divine laws of nature. Depend upon it, every colony is to be subdued into a slavish obedience to the tyrannical impositions of Great Britain; nothing less is intended. After the subjection of Boston, and perhaps all the New-England Governments, New Jersey and New-York, are to be the next in course; and they talk of taking away Penn's charter. Look to yourselves, exert all your faculties to the utmost, your virtues will be put to a severe trial, and if they are not genuine and well founded, they will not stand the test.
"Alas! how is my soul shocked at the present situation of England, my native country—a great, a generous, and late a happy people—but now, how changed, how fallen! The men who are really wise and good, deprived of opportunities of acting—The poor and middling people ruin'd and oppressed, the rich, lost in luxury and dissipation, a set of weak and wicked men, misguiding the reins of government, the people tax'd to death without mercy, placemen and pensioners without number, &c.
"Many of the officers on the intended expedition against Boston and America, have nobly thrown up their commissions, and refused to fight against their brethren in the colonies, without a just cause; and it is expected the soldiers will desert in multitudes, from a mere sense of honour and justice.
April 8. News is just now arrived, by a private hand, that the discontent of the people has so far prevailed, that orders are sent to unman the fleet, or at least that it should not sail till further orders. I hope the news will prove true.
"The Scots in the House of Commons have been your great enemies. I think it would be but just in the Bostonians to withhold every farthing due to them in that town, which I am told is very considerable, especially to the city of Glasgow. Indeed I think as the port is shut up, the whole debt due from them to Great-Britain should be stopped, and reprisals be made by every means in your power. The preservation of England itself and her excellent constitution, require it of you.
May God direct and prosper your councils. T.
From the London Evening-Post, April 9.
IF we are to believe what we read, Lord George Germaine, in bad grammar, and worse English, declared, among other things, in the great convention of the Commons of England, that Grand Juries in the province of Massachusetts-Bay are chosen for life, and have a yearly salary [see the charter, and the province laws;] likewise, that the Petit Juries are chosen annually; but this can never be, because the facts are directly contrary, and the information necessary could have been most easily procured. The Grand Juries of Massachusetts-Bay, as well as their Petit Juries, are chosen in much the same manner as they are here; that is to say, fresh every [they have four quarterly sessions, and two superior Courts in each year] sessions, by lot. Will any man then believe that his Lordship, who in such a case would not be qualified for a common commission of the peace, could so speak? or that the noble magnifier of the little fishing town of Salem into a province, could so applaud such a speaker?—I smile at the idea, and would as soon believe that the French are not preparing to assist the Turks; that the Commons of Great-Britain have a right to give and grant the property of the Commons of North-America; or that present injustice towards that country, will not eventually be the destruction of this.
MONDAY, May 23. BOSTON.
The Lady and Family of his Excellency Governor Gage, attended by Major Kemble, were to embark for New-York, from London, the beginning of this month.
We hear his Excellency Mr. Hutchinson, Elisha Hutchinson, Esq; his second son, and Miss Hutchinson, his Excellency's youngest daughter, have engaged the elegant cabin of the ship Minerva, Capt. Callan, who fails hourly for London—Last Friday between two and three o'clock in the after-
noon, a seaman with sundry valuable articles on board, bound from hence to Falmouth in the county of Falmouth, was over-set in a sudden squall or whirlwind, about three leagues below the Light-House; and the people had but just time to save themselves in the boat, before the vessel sunk.
By a vessel from St. Christopher's, which arrived at Portsmouth, last Saturday night, we have advice, that Capt. Hulme, in a ship from Jamaica, bound for this port, in lat. 36 N. and long. 66 W. foundered, by which accident, he, together with his people, were obliged to take to their boat, and after being in her four days, were taken up by a vessel from Philadelphia, and brought in there.
Saturday last failed for London, the Brig Leopard, Capt. Gorham, with whom went passenger, Mr. Jonathan Williams, jun. of this town, merchant.
TUESDAY May 24. BOSTON.
We hear that Capt. Cales, in the Ship London, bound for and owned in London, will soon sail for that Port in Ballast.
Extract of a Letter from New-York, May 14, 1774.
Last Thursday Capt. Coupar arrived from London in 27 Days. By him we have received the shocking and detestable act of parliament, that shuts up your port the first of June. We want language to express our abhorrence of this additional act of tyranny to America; we clearly see that the act is to be attacked and enslaved by distressing and subduing you.—We are persuaded that the sensible people of the town of Boston anticipate the object of the act in all its dire events; and therefore that a compliance with the proviso of it will only be a temporary relief from a particular evil, which must end in a general calamity. Impressed with this, a great number of our citizens with our port to be in the same state with yours. And as the ministry have put it out of your power to continue your trade with Great-Britain, the merchants are to have a meeting to-morrow evening to agree upon a general non-importation and non-exportation of goods to and from Great-Britain; also to stop the exportation of all hops, flaves, heading and lumber to the English islands, and to export no more of the first articles to the foreign islands than will be sufficient to bring home the sugar, rum and molasses for the return of American cargoes. We shall advise you the result of the meeting.—We can with great truth assure you, that many timid people in this city, who have interested themselves but very little in the controversy with Great-Britain, express the greatest resentment and indignation at the conduct of the ministry to your town, and consider the treatment to it as if done to this city; and this is the general sense of the inhabitants. The express is a true friend to the liberties of this country, and will wait your directions for his return.
NEWPORT, May 16. By letters from New-Orleans of the 25th of February, we are informed, that Mr. Natis's sloop from Rhode-Island, commanded by Capt. Carpenter, was seized and condemned at that place; the Captain, owner and people were sent to goal for trading with the inhabitants. Two days before the above incident, dry goods, to the value of 12,000 dollars, belonging to Mr. Baffel of that city, were seized. The commanders of the vessels were thrown into great confusion by these measures; as all vessels were liable to seizure that were found on the bank of New-Orleans.
NEWPORT, May 16.
[JOIN OR DIE!!]
The act of parliament for blocking up the harbour of Boston, in order to reduce its spirited inhabitants to the most servile and mean compliances ever attempted to be imposed on a free people, is allowed to be infinitely more alarming and dangerous to our common liberties, than even that hydra the Stamp-Act (which was defeated by our firmness and union) and must be read with a glowing indignation by every real friend of freedom, in Europe and America.—Though the town of Boston is now intended to be made a victim to ministerial wrath; yet the insult and indignity offered to our virtuous brethren in that capital, who have so nobly stood as a barrier against slavery, ought to be viewed in the same odious light, as a direct hostile invasion of every province on the continent; whose inhabitants are now loudly called upon, by interest, honour and humanity, to stand forth, with firmness and unanimity, for the relief, support and animation, of our brethren in the insulted, besieged capital of Massachusetts-Bay.—The Generals of despotism are now drawing the lines of circumvallation around our bulwarks of liberty, and nothing but unity, resolution and perseverance, can save ourselves and posterity from what is worse than death—SLAVERY.
WEDNESDAY, May 25. BOSTON.
At a town meeting legally called, and held at Newport, in the colony of Rhode-Island, the 26th Day of May, 1774.
Voted, "That we have the deepest sense of the injuries done to the town of Boston by the act of parliament lately passed for putting an end to their trade, and destroying the port; and that we consider this attack upon them as utterly subversive of American liberty: for the same power may at pleasure destroy the trade and shut up the ports of every other colony in its turn, so that their will be a total end of all property.
Voted, "That we will unite with the other colonies in all reasonable and proper measures, to procure the establishment of the rights of the colonies upon a just and permanent foundation; and particularly in case the other colonies shall upon this most alarming occasion put a stop to their trade to Great-Britain and the West-India Islands, that we will heartily join with them in the measure.
Voted, "That the committee of correspondence for the town immediately transmit a copy of these resolutions to the committee of correspondence for the town of Boston.
Voted, That the committee of correspondence for this town immediately send a copy of the above resolutions to each town in this colony.
A true copy.
WILLIAM CODDINGTON, Town Clerk.
A letter from the committee of correspondence at Westerly in Rhode-Island colony, dated May 19, 1774, says, "That with mingled concern and indignation they have seen an act for blocking up the harbour of Boston."—That "this horrid attack upon the town of Boston, they consider not an attack upon that town singly, but upon the whole continent. And are therefore determined to use their whole influence for the support of the town of Boston in the same manner as if the attack had been made in the metropolis of that colony. And they doubt not but the other colonies will consider this arbitrary and tyrannical edict in the same light, and heartily unite with the friends of liberty in Boston in support of the common cause.
At the general election of the Governor and company of the colony of Connecticut, the Honourable Jonathan Trumbull, Esq; was chosen Governor, and the Hon. Matthew Griswold, Esq; deputy Governor; John Lawrence, Esq; treasurer, and George Wyllys, Esq; secretary, for the year ensuing.
DIED! Mr. Samuel Stedman, Printer, son of Capt. Ebenezer Stedman, of Cambridge, aged 21, wanting only 9 Days.—Mrs. Hickling, Wife of Mr. Thomas Hickling.—Mrs. Mary Symmes, Wife of Capt. Symmes.—Mrs. Watts, Wife of Mr. Robert Watts.—Mr. Ridgaway. Mr. Elijah Vinal, Housewright.
Promotions in the 14th regiment. Lieut. D. Cooper, to be Captain in the room of Stanhope Harvey; Ensign P. Burnet, Lieut. in the room of D. Cooper; Charles Ogle, Gent. to be Ensign in the room of P. Burnet; Lieut. J. Bruere, to be Adjutant in the room of D. Cooper, resigned. 29th Regt. Lieut. J. Basset, Captain, in the room of J. Corrance, by purchase; Ensign J. Beaumont, Lieut. in the room of J. Beaumont; Lieut. Minchin, Captain in the room of T. Preston; Ensign Welsh, Lieut. in the room of P. Minchin; G. Barber, Gent. Ensign, in the room of P. Welsh; G. Turner, Chaplain, in the room of John Forbes, deceased.

THURSDAY, May 26. BOSTON.
Yesterday being the anniversary appointed by the Royal Charter for the election of his Majesty's councillors of the province...
The Hon. Commons house of Assembly being met in the afternoon, made choice of the following gentlemen as Councillors...
The Honourable Samuel Danforth, Esq; John Winthrop, Esq; John Erving, Esq; Timothy Danielson, Esq; James Bowdoin, Esq; Benjamin Austin, Esq; James Phips, Esq; Richard Darby, jun. Esq; Samuel Dexter, Esq; William Phillips, Esq; Artemas Ward, Esq; Michael Farley, Esq; Benjamin Greenleaf, Esq; James Prescott, Esq; Caleb Cushing, Esq; John Adams, Esq; Samuel Phillips, Esq; Norton Quincy, Esq;
For the late colony of PLYMOUTH. The Honourable James Ouis, Esq; Walter Spooner, Esq; William Sever, Esq; Jerathmael Bowers, Esq;
For the late province of MAINE. The Honourable Jeremiah Powell, Esq; Enoch Freeman, Esq; Jedediah Preble, Esq;
For SAGADAHOCK. The Honourable Benjamin Chadburne, Esq; At LARGE. The Honourable George Leonard, jun. Esq; Jedediah Foster, Esq;
The gentlemen with this [*] mark, were not of the council last year. The List of Councillors chosen yesterday being this day, agreeable to the direction of the Royal Charter, presented to his Excellency, he was pleased to NEGATIVE, the following Gentlemen, viz. the Hon. James Bowdoin, Samuel Dexter, John Winthrop, Timothy Danielson, Benjamin Austin, William Phillips, Michael Farley, James Prescott, John Adams, Norton Quincy, Jerathmael Bowers, Enoch Freeman, and Jedediah Foster, Esqrs. in the whole Thirteen; the others were approbated.
As his Excellency has been pleased to approbate the Hon. Richard Darby, jun. Esq; chosen a Councillor yesterday, it is hoped the town of Salem, whose seat in the house is in part vacated by his election, will return a member possessed of that same spirit of patriotism, which warms the breast of that worthy Gentleman.
The following is a PROTEST of the Merchants and Traders of this town, unanimously voted at a very full meeting the 24th instant, viz.
"WHEREAS A paper called an address to governor Hutchinson, has been handed about and signed in a private manner by sundry persons, which it is said file themselves Merchants, Traders and others of the town of Boston; and whereas the Merchants and Traders duly notified and met, having been refused a copy of said paper, although requested by their committee, and apprehending said address is intended to justify the administration of Mr. Hutchinson when governor of this province; we hereby utterly disclaim said address, and disavow a measure so clandestinely conducted, and so injurious in its tendency."
Where one person signs "a paper" in favour of the exportation of Tomahawks and Scalping Knives, thousands curdle the wretch whose memory will be execrated to the latest period of time.
We have good authority from New-York and Philadelphia, to assure the public, that the Extracts of letters from London to those places (published in this day's paper) are truly genuine.
Letters from Philadelphia, New-York and Connecticut, shew us that all is in motion throughout the colonies; and we may reasonably conclude through the whole extent of them. Philadelphia was just beginning to stir the 17th current, New-York has raised a committee of fifty merchants to deliberate and communicate, and Connecticut has our distresses under the consideration of their General Assembly. A few paragraphs from one of their letters, we cannot omit communicating. "We could hardly have believed that the rage of a wicked junta of tyrants could have forced through a British parliament (corrupt and venal as I know it to be) an act so impolitic, so unjust and inhuman. I am persuaded I speak the general sentiments of this Colony when I say that I am far from thinking Boston is suffering this stroke of ministerial vengeance for themselves only. No verily! you are suffering in the common cause; and the authors of your distress, intend by crushing you to intimidate the rest, and by repeating the blows, to humble and subjugate this long injured, oppressed, and too patient country. I trust the colonies will, as members of the same body, feel the pain you endure, and resent the injury as if done to themselves. This must convince Lord North and the world that his political and prophetic abilities are much on a par. The early and unremitted zeal of Boston and your Colony--Their former and later efforts in the glorious cause of freedom, while it has justly entitled you to the warmest returns of benevolence and gratitude from the other colonies, has exposed you to the rage of those who hate the laws of humanity--Would trample on the rights of mankind--Tread out Empires and quench the stars to satiate their lust of power and dominion. But be of good cheer! I venture to say every thing we bear bodes well. Boston are of the foremost afforters and defenders of the common cause; if not, must not and will not be crushed by the iron rod of power. The plan of suspending trade will certainly do the work, but even if it should fail, we have other means in our power; and far better had we all die in the struggle than yield the point."
The following gentlemen are returned to represent the several towns and districts to which their names are fixed. Those with this [*] mark, were not of the House last year. For the County of SUFFOLK.
Boston, Honourable Thomas Cushing, Esq; Speaker. Mr. Samuel Adams, Honourable John Hancock, Esq; and William Phillips, Esq; Roxbury, Captain William Heath. Dorchester, Captain Lemuel Robinson. Milton, Mr. Stephen Miller. Braintree, Ebenezer Thayer, jun. Esq; Weymouth, Mr. Nathaniel Bailey. Hingham, and Cohasset, Benjamin Lincoln, Esq; Dedham, Mr. Abner Ellis. Medfield, Mr. Moses Bullen. Wrentham, Mr. Jabez Fisher.
Berkshire, Captain Benjamin White. Stockbridge, Captain D. Mr. Hezekiah Gay. Walpole, Mr. Enoch Ellis. Medway, Captain Jonathan Adams. For the County of ESSEX. Salem, Richard Derby, jun. Esq; Mr. John Pickering, jun. Danvers, Dr. Samuel Holten. Ipswich, Captain Michael Farley. Newbury, Joseph Gerrish, Esq; Newbury-Port, Mr. Jonathan Greenleaf. Marblehead, John Gallison, Esq; Lynn, Ebenezer Burrill, Esq; Andover, Captain Moody Bridges. Beverly, Mr. Josiah Bachelder, jun. Rowley, Mr. Nathaniel Myghill. Salisbury, Mr. Samuel Smith. Haverhill, Mr. Jonathan Webster. Gloucester, Captain Peter Corbin. Topsfield, Mr. John Gould. Boxford, Aaron Wood, Esq; Almsbury, Isaac Merrill, Esq; Bradford, Captain Daniel Thurston.
For the County of MIDDLESEX. Cambridge, Captain Thomas Gardner. Charlestown, Mr. Nathaniel Gorham. Watertown, Captain Jonathan Browne. Woburn, Mr. Samuel Wyman. Concord, Captain James Barrett. Newton, Abraham Fuller, Esq; Reading, Samuel Bancroft, Esq; Marlborough, Mr. Peter Bent. Billerica, William Stickney, Esq; Framingham, Captain Josiah Stone. Lexington, Mr. Jonas Stone. Chelmsford, Mr. Simeon Spaulding. Sherburne, Mr. Samuel Bullard. Sudbury, Mr. Thomas Plympton. Malden, Captain Ebenezer Harnden. Medford, Mr. Benjamin Hall. Weston, Eliza Jones, Esq; Waltham, Jonas Dix, Esq; Groton, Shirley D. Pepperrell D. James Prescott, Esq; Wofford, Captain Josiah Read. Acton, Mr. Josiah Hayward. Lincoln, Captain Eleazar Brooks. Dunstable, John Tyng, Esq; Littleton, Mr. Josiah Hartwell.
For the County of HAMPSHIRE. Springfield, Honourable John Worthington, Esq; Wilbraham, Mr. John Bliss. West-Springfield, Benjamin Day, Esq; Northampton and Southampton, Joseph Hawley, Esq; Hadley, South-Hadley D. Amherst, Granby, Mr. J. Pierce. Hatfield, Waverly and Williamburg, Mr. John Dickinson. Deerfield, Greenfield D. Shelburne D. Conway D. Mr. Samuel Field. Westfield and Southwick, Mr. John Moseley. Sunderland and Montague, Dr. Moses Gunn. Brimfield, South-Brimfield and Monson, Mr. Tim. Danielson. Northfield, Mr. Phineas Wright.
For the County of PLYMOUTH. Plymouth, Hon. James Warren, Esq; Mr. Isaac Lothrop. Scituate, Mr. Gideon Vinall. Marshfield, Abijah White, Esq; Middleborough, Capt. Ebenezer Sprout, Rochester, Mr. Ebenezer White, Plympton, Mr. Samuel Lucas, Pembroke, Mr. John Turner, Hanover, Capt. Joseph Cushing, Abington, Woodbridge Brown, Esq; Bridgewater, Capt. Edward Mitchell, Kingston, Capt. John Gray, Duxbury, Mr. George Patridge.
For the County of BARNSTABLE. Barnstable, Edward Bacon, Esq; Sandwich, Mr. Stephen Nye, Yarmouth, David Thatcher, Esq; Eastham and Wellfleet, Mr. Barnabas Freeman, Harwich, Mr. Benjamin Freeman, Falmouth, Mr. Moses Swift.
For the County of BRISTOL. Taunton, Daniel Leonard, jun. Esq; Robert Treat Paine, Esq; Rehoboth, Capt. Joseph Barney, Swansea and Shawmut, Jerathmael Bowers, Esq; Dartmouth, Benjamin Atkins, Esq; Norton and Mansfield, Thomas Morey, Esq; Attleborough, Mr. John Daggett, Dighton and Freetown, Mr. William Baylie, Easton, Capt. Matthew Hayward.
For the County of YORK. York, Mr. Daniel Bragdon, Kittery, Edward Cutt, Esq; Wells, Mr. Ebenezer Sayer, Berwick, Capt. Nathan Lord, jun. Arundel, Thomas Perkins, Esq; For the County of DUKES-COUNTY. Edgarton, Mr. Thomas Cook, Sherburne, Mr. Stephen Hussey.
For the County of NANTUCKET. Sherburne, Mr. Stephen Hussey. For the County of WORCESTER. Worcester, Mr. Joshua Bigelow, Lancaster, Capt. Asa Whitcomb, Mendon, Mr. Edward Rawson, Brookfield, Jedediah Foster, Esq; Oxford and Charlton, Edward Davies, Esq; Sutton, Capt. Henry King, Leicester, Spencer D. Paxton D. Mr. Thomas Denny, Rutland, Rutland D. Oakham, Hubbardston, John Murray, Esq; Westminster, Northborough, Capt. Stephen Maynard, Shrewsbury, Mr. Phineas Heywood, Lunenburg, Fitzburg, Mr. John Taylor, Uxbridge, Mr. Joseph Read, Harvard, Israel Taylor, Esq; Bolton, John Whitcomb, Esq; Peterboro, Capt. Ephraim Doolittle, Hardwick, Mr. Paul Mandell, Sturbridge, Moses Marley, Esq; Leominster, Mr. Israel Nicholas, Grafton, Mr. John Sherman, Upton, Mr. Abiel Sadler.
For the County of CUMBERLAND. Falmouth, Cape-Elizabeth, Enoch Freeman, Esq; Scarborough, Mr. Samuel March, North-Tarmouth, Mr. John Lewis, For the County of LINCOLN. Georgetown, Waleswick.
For the County of BERKSHIRE. Sheffield, Great-Barrington, Egremont, Alford, David In-Sockbridge, Mr. Thomas Williams, [Gerfolk, jun. Esq; Tyringham, Capt. Giles Jackson, Pittsfield, Mr. James Easton, Richmont, Lenox, Mr. John Patterson, Laneborough, Mr. Peter Curtis, Williamstown, Capt. Isaac Searl, Gageborough, Capt. William Clark.
This Day his Excellency the Governor was pleased to make the following SPEECH, to both Houses, viz. Gentlemen of the Council, and Gentlemen of the House of Representatives,
HIS Majesty having been pleased to appoint me Governor and Captain General of his province of Massachusetts-Bay, and my commissions having been read and published, I have met you for the election of Councillors for the ensuing year; on which business you have been convened agreeably to your charter. And as that work is finished, you will proceed, as you shall judge fit, to the consideration of such other matters as may properly come before you, and that you judge ought to be entered upon, previous to the first of next month; and you will be assured that I shall with pleasure concur with you to the utmost of my power, in all matters that tend to the welfare and prosperity of the province.
I make mention of the first of next month because I have the King's particular Command for holding the General
Court at Salem from that day until his Majesty shall have signified his royal will and pleasure for holding it again at Boston.
The honour of my appointment to the command of this government being so lately conferred, and the time since I took it upon me so very short, I have not at present any matter to lay before you farther than to acquaint you that the Provincial Treasurer having informed me that sufficient provision is made for the redemption of the government securities that are now and will become due in June 1775, you have no other burthen upon you but to supply the Treasury for the support of government for the ensuing year. THOS. GAGE.
Council-Chamber, 26 May, 1774.
NEW-YORK, May 19. Yesterday about noon, Mr. Revere, the express from Boston, set out for Philadelphia. At a very general meeting of the inhabitants of this city, on Monday evening last, a body of fifty respectable gentlemen were appointed by the public voice, to be a standing committee for the important and salutary purposes, of keeping up a correspondence with our sister colonies, and in connection with them pursuing in the present important crisis, such judicious and constitutional measures, as should appear to be necessary for the preservation of our just rights--The maintenance of the public peace--And the support of that general union, which at this time in particular, is so absolutely requisite to be preserved throughout the continent.
At a time like this, when the public good is concerned--The public good alone should be the object of every individual, 'tis therefore anxiously hoped that at the general meeting to be assembled this day, to declare the universal assent to the choice of the body, who made the nomination--All partial attachment and private animosities will be laid aside--And the choice be confirmed without any further opposition from narrow and ungenerous sentiments.--As the gentlemen appointed are of the body of the merchants--men of property--probity and understanding, whole zeal for the public good cannot be doubted; their own several private interests being so intimately connected with that of the whole community--and whose situations, connections and opportunities of an universal knowledge of public circumstances--point them out as the proper persons to hold so important a trust.
OF ADDRESSES.
IT is beyond question, that the original design of public Addresses, was to declare the gratitude of the people; and to pay suitable honour to the merit of the person, to whom they were offered. They were a sort of incense ascending from thankful hearts, to some great personage of superior virtue, in commemoration of some act of public utility and signal renown. When a man in high station, had eminently distinguished himself for the good of the community, the people, as a regard for his services, and to testify their deep sense of his worth, paid him this grateful tribute of applause: In this sense, public addresses were of singular use: They were a kind of homage paid to merit; and thence a stimulation to virtuous deeds. It was true and intrinsic glory, thus to receive the commendation of the people, because such commendation was only bestowed on amiable and deserving characters.
But whatever might be the primitive intention of those Panegyrics, it is evident, that modern times are no so nice in their public addresses. They are now little better than former compliments, and those too generally pretty flat and fulsome. They are in short, like most modern dedications, mere hyperbole; and degenerated into perfect flattery. A man is often celebrated for actions, he never performed; and extolled for virtues, which he never possessed. Hence, a Plantation Governor will have his praises refounded, for his flaming zeal in promoting the true interest of a province, before he can possibly know in what its true interest consists; and receive plentiful incense for having done, what every body knows he has not done. So far therefore, as these encomiastic compositions were of use while they celebrated only real merit and glorious deeds, they are now become, in a great measure, absolutely useless and impertinent. They frequently make no distinction between the different characters of the men who fill the office, but present the same eulogiums to whomsoever fills it, whether he adorns or disgraces it. A man of transcendent genius and eminent probity, or an ass loaded with preferment, and void of every virtue; in short, the best and the worst are accosted in the same high strains of laudatory adulation. Nay, they are, for the most part, perfect satire and burlesque. For what else than the keenest irony is public applause, to one who rather deserves public abhorrence? Would not a Panegyric on the great piety of Cardinal Woolsey, or the singular honesty of Col. Charteris, be downright sarcasm and drollery; I have read an address to Richard Cromwell, which was most graciously accepted by his highness, and yet rendered him exquisitely ridiculous in the eyes of every body, except himself. Nay, I have seen an address of three pages, to a gentleman of high rank, by persons who knew nothing of him, but that he had posts to confer, and offices to dispose of.
'Tis the easiest thing in the world, for great men to procure such addresses: There always were, and always will be, tools and dependents of sufficient influence, to place such a feather in the cap of their patron. But it is very odd, that such addresses should pass for proof, of the merit of the man, who is the subject of them. They seldom or ever contain the sense of the people. I have known a corporation prefer an address, for which they were censured by the whole body of their constituents; and yet it was intended to do notable execution at home; and prove how supremely his Excellency was beloved by the whole city.
I have heard of a Governor, who, while he was plundering his Master, and persecuting the province, wanted a quantity of this political perfume to embalm his misdeeds, and impart an odour to measures, that naturally created a stench in the nostrils of every man of sense and integrity. The good gentleman communicated his necessity to some of his adherents. They were prompt to offer the sacrifice; but puzzled about the materials: At length the whole city was wasted with famine, amidst the greatest plenty, and he filed our glorious deliverer, who delivered us not.
It is very diverting upon these occasions to see the formality practiced in the composition of an address. Nothing is less regarded, than the real character of the person to be flattered. The question is not, what he deserves to have said of him, but what he will be most pleased at having said. And as 'tis presumed, that the same incense which has been offered to his predecessors, will be also acceptable to him, old addresses are industriously procured, and carefully consulted. Nor are these address-mongers less cautious in deviating from precedent, than a lawyer would be to frame a writ that is not in the register. For this reason, I have often wondered, that among that infinite multitude of English wits, who live on their ingenuity, none have published a collection of addresses. I am persuaded, that a bookseller in New-York would not be a loser by the commodity. It is long since, the meaning of words was inverted, and guilt and innocence confounded together: But melancholy it is, and highly to be deplored, when men of genius and capacity, prostitute their pens to extermine exalted ruffians, and dignify public villainy. Has not Horace immortalized Cæsar, an infamous usurper, who triumphed over Rome and her liberties? And who was a greater sycophant than the famous Paterculus?
It was droll enough, to see the English, after the reformation, besides testifying their joy, by lavishing the wealth of the nation; to extol in Panegyrics, the merit of Charles the second; a monarch, who did not indeed spend his time like Domitian, in catching flies; but with as little advantage to his people, consumed it with French strumpets and lap-dogs. Nor were any addresses or subsidies, esteemed sufficient to demonstrate the nation's loyalty, till they had canonized his father, who had governed without law, and thrown the kingdom into convulsions.
The Romans used to swear by the dignity of Cæsar. They might with equal propriety, have invoked the piety of Lucifer. The incarnate demon did all the mischief he could; and nothing worse can be said of the other. Nero was ano-
ther notable deity. A deity, that with infinite pains, fiddles, and prided himself with the thoughts of being a deity. A deity who delighted in human misery; and in order to achieve some memorable and complicated villainy, Rome on fire, and placing himself in a tower to behold the conflagration, sung the story of the destruction of Troy. The Asiatics so much oppressed by a governor of Cilicia were prevailed upon to send a solemn deputation to Rome, to a vast expence, to thank him publicly there. This extraordinary practice, was however not singular. The people of Massina a great city in Sicily, dispatched a like deputation to Rome there publicly to praise that monster Verres, for his good administration. "We may easily guess how such accusations were procured."
We have of late years been entertained with abundance of public addresses, which happily restored this excellent custom to its primitive use and rectitude. For I'm confident, they were all grateful tokens of our love and joy, upon finding the administration in the hands of such a great and accomplished president.
To the few villainous TRAITORS who aim to betray the LIBERTIES of this country.
MISCREANTS, I am informed that some of you have thanked God, that you could now speak and act your minds; and that you were determined to exert yourselves to the utmost to prevent that union of the colonies, which bids fair to free them from that subordination to the British parliament (you might rather have said the British ministry) which you think it is their duty to yield. On this, I would just put you in mind, that notwithstanding present appearances, you can have no positive assurances that a wicked usurpation, can carry all before them by a mere brutal force, bribery and corruption; and should matters speedily come to extremity, it might be worthy our while to consider against whom the burst of popular vengeance will be most likely to break forth. SAT VERBUM.
Custom-House, Boston, May 20, 1774. THE Commissioners of his Majesty's Customs hereby give Notice, that from and after the first Day of June, 1774, the Officers of the Customs for this Port and Harbour, will be removed from the Town of Boston, to the Town of Plymouth, within the Limits of the Port of Boston; then and there to proceed to carry on, in the usual Manner, the Business of their respective Departments, in the Collection and Management of his Majesty's Customs, and the Execution of the Laws of Trade; And no Officer of the Customs will be permitted to remain in the Town or Harbour of Boston from and after the first Day of June next, during the Continuance of an Act passed in the present Year of his Majesty's Reign, intitled, an Act to discontinue in such Manner, and for such Time as are therein mentioned, the landing and discharging, lading or shipping of Goods, Wares and Merchandise, at the Town, and within the Harbour of Boston, in the Province of Massachusetts-Bay, in North-America. By Order of Commissioners; SAMUEL MATHER, pro Sec'y.
WANTED IMMEDIATELY, TWO HUNDRED POUNDS, Lawful Money, by a Person in good Business in this Town. Enquire of the Printer.
For Charlestown, South-Carolina, The Ship MARY-ANN, JOHN MICHAEL, Master, Will sail in 8 Days. For Freight or Passage apply to the Master on board at JOHN HANCOCK, Esq's. Wharf, or to Capt. EBENEZER SYMMES. Who has for Sale, A few Hampers of Porter and a Parcel of Cordage.
A WOMAN, with a good Breast of Milk, in this Town, would be glad to take a Child to Suckle. Enquire of the Printer.
To be seen at Mrs. COLMAN's at the Sign of General WOLFE, near the Market.
ALAMB, lamb at CASCO-BAY, which nature hath been fit to Ornament with a MODERN HEAD-DRESS. N. B. Three Coppers a light.
Halifax, Nova-Scotia, May 19, 1774. TO BE SOLD at PUBLIC AUCTION, On TUESDAY the Second Day of August next in the Town of Halifax, at the House of Mr. JOHN RIDER, A VALUABLE Tract of Land or Township, commonly known by the Name of New-Jerusalem, or Port-Rosway, on the Southern Shore of the Province of Nova-Scotia, containing One Hundred Thousand Acres of Land, granted by his Majesty to ALEXANDER MACNUTT, Esq; but lately the Property and Estate of BENJAMIN GERRISH, Esq; deceased, and contain several fine Harbours for Vessels or Ships of any Draught of Water and full of all Sorts of Fish, as Cod, Salmon, Mackerel, Herring, &c. &c. extending about twelve Miles on the Sea Coast, well wooded and watered. Conditions of Pay, viz. To pay 10 per cent. down in Cash, and the Remainder on executing the Deed of Sale for the same, which shall be within one Month after the Sale.
Also, a Lot of Land, an old House and Bake-House on the Beach, with a large Baking Oven, late in the Occupation of Mr. RICHARD JACOB.
Also, a Lot of Land walled in with Stone, containing five Acres of Land more or less, lying on the Road to RICHARD JACOB's Farm.
Also, one Half of the Meeting-House Cellar.
Also, the late Dwelling-House of BENJAMIN GERRISH, Esq; deceased, with the front Yard and back Gardens and Out-Houses.
Also, a Wharf with four Stores thereon and a Coach-House and Stable.
Also, a Tract of Land, containing ten Thousand Acres, granted to BENJAMIN GERRISH, Esq; deceased, situated on the North Side of the Basin of Mines in the Province of Nova-Scotia, comprehending the three Rivers commonly called and known by the Names of the Bass Rivers abounding with Shad, Salmon, Bass and other Kinds of Fish, and contains upwards of two Hundred Acres of Marsh Land, and was formerly a Settlement by the Acadians. Also an Island called Moose-Island about one Mile distant, containing about one Hundred and Ninety Acres of rich Land. The aforesaid Bass Rivers are navigable for Vessels of 50 or 60 Tons and good Harbours.
Also, sixty one and half Acres of Dike Land in the Township of Horton on the Grand Prize.
Also, a Farm in the Township of Falmouth, now under good Improvement with a Dwelling-House and Barn and other Out-Houses, containing about Twelve Hundred and Fifty Acres of Land more or less, and all other Lands belonging to said Estate of BENJAMIN GERRISH, Esq; N. B. In all the above Estates the Widow's Dower is to be excepted and treated for with her in Particulars for her Thirds during Life. Conditions of Pay as aforesaid.
A great number of ADVERTISEMENTS, &c. omitted this week, will have a good place in our next.

POETS CORNER.
A SONG ON LIBERTY. To the Tune of THE BRITISH GRENADIER. THAT feat of science, Athens, and earth's proud mistress, Rome, Where now are all their glories? We scarce can find their tomb. Then guard your rights, Americans, nor stoop to lawless sway, Oppose, Oppose, Oppose, Oppose it, for North America. Proud Albion bow'd to Cæsar, and numerous lords before, To Picts, to Danes, to Normans, and many masters more; But we can boast Americans have never fall'n a prey, Huzza! huzza! huzza! huzza! for free America. We led fair freedom hither, and to the desert island, A paradise of pleasure now open'd in the wild; Your harvest, bold Americans, no pow'r shall snatch away, Preserve, preserve, preserve your rights in free America. Torn from a world of Tyrants, beneath this western sky We form'd a new dominion, a land of liberty; The world shall own we're freemen here, and such will ever be. Huzza! huzza! huzza! huzza for love and liberty. God bless this maiden climate, and through her vast domain. May hosts of heroes cluster that soon to wear a chain, And blast the venal sycophants who dare our rights betray; Affect yourselves, yourselves, yourselves for brave America. Lift up your hearts, my heroes, and swear, with proud disdain, The wretch that would enslave you shall spread his net in vain; Should Europe empty all her force we'd meet them in array, And shout huzza! huzza! huzza for brave America. The land where freedom reigns shall still, be masters of the main, In giving laws and freedom to subject France and Spain; And all the isles o'er ocean spread shall tremble and obey, The prince who rules by freedom's laws in North America.
This Day was published, [Embellished with elegant Engravings, I. The Buft of Mr. Samuel Adams. II. The Hills-Tops: A new Hunting Song, set to Music, with a Representation of the Death of the Stag.]
NUMBER IV. of THE ROYAL American Magazine, Or UNIVERSAL Repository of Instruction and Amusement. For APRIL, 1774.
CONTAINING, Description of April—On Ingratitude. An Essay On the Obscurity of Dead Language, and the Sufficiency of the English Writings to establish a Class equal to the Ancients—Answer to the Genealogical Problem in No. II.—Reconciliation of some Passages of Scripture requested—Essay on Fevers—On the Education of the Fair Sex—A real Character—Why a Gardener is the most extraordinary Man in the World—Epitome of Captain Wallis's Voyage round the World, concluded—On the Cultivation of Madder—The Fortune Hunter, continued—Answer to the Post Diluvian, in No. II.—Thoughts on the Culture of Silk—Spring—The Directory of Love—Answers to the questions in No. II. &c.—Mathematical observations—POETICAL ESSAYS—The Hills-Tops. A new Hunting Song—Female Advice—The Wish—On Happiness—The Lily's Triumph—To a young Gentleman—Psalm cxxxix—A Rebus—The Travellers—Stanzas to Patience—The Ascension—Night. A Poem—A Mother to a young Child—The dying Husband to his Wife—Verses to the Editor—HISTORICAL CHRONICLE—General History of America—European and Domestic Intelligence—Marriages and Deaths—Meteorological Observations on the Weather—Governor Hutchinson's History, &c.
AMERICAN MAGAZINE. THOSE Gentlemen who are inclined to favour the Royal American Magazine, for MAY, with their Productions, are desired to send them with all convenient Speed, to the Publisher.
Choice Cheshire Cheese, Which will suit the nicest taste, Just imported in Capt. Symmes and Capt. Calef from London, And to be SOLD by CHARLES LOWE, Opposite the Boston Stone, in Marshall's-Lane, near the Mill-bridge. [This quantity of Cheese is equal in goodness, if not superior, to that imported and sold by him last fall.] Also, excellent FLORENCE OYL , in Flasks, warranted good, and the best of English Mustard , by the bottle, single pound, or less. OATMEAL by the Bushel, or smaller quantity.
SAMUEL ELIOT Informs the PUBLIC, That he has imported in the Ships just arrived from LONDON,
A General Assortment of English and India GOODS , a Variety of Irish LINENS. Cutlery and HARD WARE, Pistol POWDER, &c. Which will be Sold by Wholesale and Retail, At his SHOP near the Head of Dock-Square, And at his STORE in WILSON'S Lane.
Imported in the Ship London, Capt. Calef, And to be SOLD by JAMES FOSTER CONDY, At his Book-Store in Union-Street, Directly opposite the Cornfield, Boston, A large Assortment of the most fashionable PAPER HANGINGS, Which will be Sold at a very low Advance, Also, the most modern Books in every Branch of polite Literature, Art and Science, may be had at said Store (as usual) at such Prices as will give full Satisfaction to the Purchaser. N. B. A Pair of 17 Inch Globes to be Sold cheap.
TO BE SOLD or LET, A Neat and very convenient HOUSE, with a Barn and Chaise House, and about two Acres of Land, including a rich Garden Spot, very pleasantly situated, and a fine healthy Place, not five Miles from Boston Town-House, on a great Road, where most Kinds of Provisions can easily be procured. Enquire of the Printers.
For LONDON, The Ship LONDON, ROBERT CALEF, Master, Now lying at the Long Wharf, Will sail with an Expedition. For Freight or Passage apply to PETER HUGHES, at his Store in King-Street, Where there is to be Sold, English, Russia and Ravens DUCK, Pickles in Hampers and Cakes, Cheshire Cheese, Loaf sugar, Chip Hats. Boston, April 30, 1774.
TO BE SOLD by ROBERT RUGGLES, At his Shop in Cornhill, a little to the Northward of the Town Pump, Boston, a large Assortment of English and India GOODS, By Wholesale or Retail, extremely cheap for Cash only. Among which are the following Articles, viz.
STRIP, changeable, Chevauxetiffe, plain and brocaded half ell and 3-4 Lutestrings, Ducapes and Padufoys, Mohair Grogams, Crimson and blue Cordofey, Blue, white, green and pink Sarfets, Scarlet, crimson, white, blue, pink, green, drab and black, plain, spotted and spriged half ell and 3-4 Sattins of all Prices, Rich rose, crimson and green English Damasks, Blue and white India ditto, Blue, green, changeable and drab India Tafatics, Black English ditto, Figured Modefor Capuchines, of most Colours, Half yard, 3-4 and yard wide black Allamode, Missinets and Grizetts, Broglioos and Sattinets, Black and Lead-colour Bombazens, Black double Allopeens, Dorsetteens, Crapes and Poplins, Bengalls, Worsted Grogams, Camblets and Cambleteens, Drawboys and Everlastings, Calicoes and Chints, Sagathies and Duroys, Fustians and Jeans, Wiltons, Damasks and Ginghams for Mens Waistcoats, Figured Silk Waistcoat Patterns, Black Silk Breeches Patterns, Black, blue and cloth coloured Worsted Breeches Patterns, Mens Silk Hose, Mens and Womens Thread, Cotton and Worsted Hose, Childrens ditto all Sorts, Womens black, white and buff coloured Silk Gloves, Mens black ditto, Silk Mitts, all Colours, A neat Assortment of plain, spotted, figured and spriged Gazes of all Prices, Best Tambour Muslin, Stript, spriged and checked Muslins, Yard and six-quarters wide plain Muslins, Brocaded and Sattin Shoes and Clogs, English and Lynn made Rus-fell and Callimanco Shoes, Childrens ditto, A neat Assortment of Brusfells and other Thread Laces, from gl. to 3s. 9d. old Tenor per Yard, Blond Laces, Black Bone Laces, all Prices, Hats for Women, A very large Assortment of Mens, Womens, Youths and Girls glazed and unglazed Gloves and Mitts, Galloon and Strapping, Stay Cord and Braid, Buckrams, Yellow Holland, Brown ditto, 3-4, 7-8 and yard-wide Irish Linens, Sheeting Holland, Table Cloths, Napkinine Damaskus, Diapers and Huckabuck, Womens and Childrens pack Thread Stays, Blue, pink, green and white Womens loom-quilted silk Petticoats, White Quilting, Gold and Silver spangled Buttons, Gold and Silver Vellum, Gold Prussian Coat Bindings, Mecklenburgh ditto, Gold Braid, Gold and Silver Thread, Silk Twit and Silk and Hair, Velvet Collars, Tortoiseshell Combs with and without Stones, Superfine, middling and low Price Broad Cloths, Forest Cloth, German Serges, Half Thicks, Rattenees, Beaver Coating, Duffils, Baizes, Velvets, Stript Swanskins, Oznabrigs, Shalloon and Tammies of most Colours, Calamancoes, Best black plain Russell, 3-4, 7-8 and yard wide Checks, Mettle Buttons of all Sorts, Crewels and Canvas, Pins and Needles, Threads and Tapes, Sewing Silks of all Colours, Cambricks and Lawns, Long Lawn, Silk and Linen Handkerchiefs, Knives and Forks, Pen Knives, Razors, Buckles, Pepper, Cinnamon, Cloves, Mace, And a Variety of other Articles.
To the PUBLIC. WHEREAS an Act was made by the Great and General Assembly of this Province, to prohibit the Exportation of Raw Hides, Upper-Leather, &c. to be shipped to any Port out of this Province, except to Great-Britain; and as the frequent shipping out of this Province, Upper-Leather and Tanned Calf-Skins, to other Places, hath been much to the Damage of this Province, not only by Reason of the Price being enhanced to a very high Rate, but a very great Scarcity occasioned by sending off the choicest of said Upper Leather, and all the worst reserved to be manufactured at Home. This is therefore to acquaint all Persons, who shall hereafter presume to ship off Upper-Leather; and all Masters of Vessels, who shall receive such Leather on board for any Port, except as aforesaid, shall be prosecuted according to Law. Boston, May, 1774.
This day was published, (price four coppers) And Sold next the Cornfield, Union-Street, Near the Market, Boston, THE Life, last words and dying confession of DANIEL WILSON, who was executed at Providence, Rhode-Island, April 24th 1774, for committing a rape.
A WOMAN, that can be well recommended, with a young Breast of Milk, would be glad to go into any Gentleman's Family to suckle. Enquire of the Printer.
To be SOLD, A SCHOONER ninety tons burden, lying at DAVID SPEAR's wharf.
Just Imported and to be Sold by JOHN and THOMAS OSBORN, At the Painters Arms in Back-street, Leading to Charlestown-Ferry,
PAINTERS OYL and colours, of all sorts, by wholesale and retail, as cheap as at any place. N. B. Coach, Chaise, House and Ship Painting, &c. done with fidelity and dispatch. in Boston.
JEREMIAH ALLEN Informs his Friends and the PUBLIC, That he has received by the LONDON, Capt. CALEF, And is now opening for Sale, At his Shop in Ann Street, a little North of the Draw Bridge, by Wholesale and Retail,
A Complete Assortment of Braziers, Cutlery and Ironmongery GOODS, purchased from the most approved Manufacturers in Great-Britain, and which he doubts not will give satisfaction both in Price and Quality to those who please to favour him with their Custom. Among which are the following, 2d. 3d. 4d. 6d. 10d. and 20d. NAILS, Sheathing and Boat ditto, London Pewter Dishes, Plates and Bacons, Tankards, Quart and Pint Cans; Quart, Pint and Half Pint Tea Pots, Cream Pots, Tea Tongues, Table and Tea Spoons, Bottle Crains, Wine Measures, Bed and Close Stool Pans, Brass Kettles and Skillets, Bell-mettle ditto, Warming and Fraying Pans, Desk and Book Case Furniture of all kinds, Brass Knockers, Ball Bolts, Clock Pins, Screw Rings, Knobs, Brass Scales and Weights, Money Scales, Brass and Iron Candlesticks, also a few Pair Princes Mettle in the newest Taste, Steel spring, japanned and iron Snuffers, polished Steel Shovel and Tongs, Bellows Box and Flat Irons, Box Iron Grates, Bed Screws, half and quarter Carriers, Knife Boxes, make Castors, Bed Caps and Turn Buckles; silver, ivory, buck, bone, horn and maple handle Knives and Forks, Penknives of all fotes, Razors, Scissars and Cuttoes, Snuff and Tobacco Boxes, Horn and Ivory Combs; gilt, plated and lacquered Coat and Breast Buttons; Shoe, Knee and Stock Buckles of all kinds, Temple and Dutch Spectacles, also a few Pair Temple of an extra Quality, Brass and Iron Locks and Hinges of all sorts, Carpenters and Joiners Tools, Awn Blades, Shoe Nippers and Pincers, English and French Gun Flints, Shot Belts and Powder Flasks, Powder and Shot, Bar and Sheet Lead, 10 by 8 Glass, 2 and 3 pitched worsted Wool Combs, best Clothiers Shears, Smiths Anvils and Vises, Iron Spades, Beaver, Castor and Felt Hats, also a few white furred ditto with Gold Buttons and Loops for Ladies, Peg-tooth and cross-cut Saws, Steel and Iron Plate Hand Saws, fash, tenant and key hole ditto, Files and Raps of all sorts, gimblets, Tap and Bung Borers, Bamboo, Dogwood, fold; joint and hazel Angling Rods of all kinds, a few of the neatest Bamboo Rods that perhaps was ever in America, spare Tops for Rods, Cod and Mackerel Lines, Hair and silk ditto, best Hurly Hooks, ditto on Gimp and Hair, Snap Hooks, 6 and 10 Stave Reeds, 10-Yard fly Line Gimp, Landing Nets, fly-goose, trout painted Corks, Brass Winches, Brads and Tacks of all sorts, Nail Nippers, Nutt Crackers, Cork Screws, Brass and paper Ink Pots, Brass Beer Cocks, Pinking Irons, Chair Center and Deuling Belts Crutch Head Cloth, Table, Shoe and Buckle Brushes, Curling and Pinching Tongs, Wool Cards, Seives and Seive Bottoms, Houle Bells, Pound Beads, No. 1, 2 and 3 Silks, Kitchen Jacks, complete Brass and Iron Wire, Curry Combs, Dripping Pans, Corn Fans, painted Scale Beans, Horse Flems, Brass and Steel Thimbles, Rat and Moufe Traps, Tin Plates, Looking Glasses of all kinds, a few Pair Gold and Gold and white oval Glasses in the Palmyra Taste, either with or without Jerendoles.
SUPERFINE Broad-Cloths and Shalloons, with almost every Kind of English Goods usually imported from London to this Place, imported by SAMUEL AUSTIN, And to be Sold quite low for the Cash at his Shop in Union-Street.
JAMES HENDERSON Just returned from LONDON, begs Leave to inform the Public, that he has brought with him A N Assortment of GOODS, A suitable for the Spring Trade, which he will sell by Wholesale and Retail, at his Shop in Ann-Street, next Door to Mr. William Scott's Irish Linen Store, Boston. N. B. Among which is a Variety of very fashionable SILKS.
JAMES HILL, At his SHOP in CHARLESTOWN, Next Door to ISAAC RAND, Esquire's, Has to SELL, A Variety of fresh GARDEN SEEDS, also Pease and Beans, just arrived per Capt. Symmes, from London. He has likewise for Sale, Glass, Cream-Coloured, Delph and Stone Ware, Groceries, &c. N. B. The Goldsmith and Jeweller's Business carried on at said Shop.
Just arrived and now opening at the Store of DUNCAN INGRAHAM, jun. In Union-Street, Boston, A variety of English, India, Irish and Scotch GOODS, Which will be Sold by Wholesale and Retail, At his usual low prices for Cash.
The following articles are part of his assortment, viz. Chints, Calicoes, Nankeens, Mullins, Satins, Irish Linens, Dowlas, Oznabrigs, Ticklinburgs, Diapers, Russia Drabs, Cambricks, Lawns, Checks, Fustians, Jeans, Striped Hollands, Mozeens for Waistcoats, Loretas for ditto, Brunswicks, Broad-Cloaths, Serges, Baizes, Brolios, Jubilees, Callimancoes, Russells, Shalloons, Tammies, Sngathees, Gauzes, Gauze Handkerchiefs, Nettings, Misses Court Heel Mocco Pumps, Alamedes, Luteftrings, Persians, Fine Chip Hats, Skellings, 12 and Wires, Dutch Laces, Writing Paper, Royal Ribbs, Sattinets, Looking Glasses, Neat dress. do. Ravens Duck, Russia ditto, Black fur Caps, Black Plumes, India Jeans, China Ware.
A L S O, Gun Powder, Shott, Spices, Scythes, Sickles, Loaf Sugar, &c. &c.
THIS is notify the Creditors of ISAAC WINCHESTER, late of Brookline, Gentleman, deceased, who have not received the respective Dues from the Estate of the above Deceased, are desired to meet at Mr. MORTON, at the Sign of the White Horse, South-End, Boston, on Thursday the 19th Day of May instant at Three o'Clock in the Afternoon, and they may hear of something to their Advantage.
JEREMIAH ALLEN INFORMS his Friends and the Public, that he received by the Dolphin, Capt. SCOTT, a fresh Assortment of Hard Ware GOODS; also a few Pair of oval and other genteel Looking Glasses in the newest Taste, which he is determined to sell at a very reasonable Rate.
CYRUS BALDWIN HEREBY informs his Customers and others, that he purposed to embark for London early next Fall; and that he is now selling off his Stock in Trade, consisting of a large and valuable Assortment of English, India and Scotch GOODS, very cheap for Cash, at his Store in Cornhill, near the State-House, Boston. Among which are,
A large Assortment of superfine, middling and low priced Broad Cloths, with Trimmings, German Serges, Wiltons, Jeans, Fustians, Cotton Velvets, Hair and Worsted Plumes, Furniture and other Calicoes, Furniture Checks, Irish Linens, Cambricks, Lawns, Thick Muslin, Book ditto, Silks for Ladies Gowns of various Sorts and Colours, some of them at the sterling Cost; a beautiful Assortment of Ribbons, Quality and Shoe Bindings, Garterings, Tapes; a fine Assortment of Silk, Thread, Worsted and Cotton Hosiery; Carpets and Carpeting, Looking Glasses, with a Thousand other Articles, not here mentioned. Very neat superfine Chip Hats at the Sterling Cost. * * * Those who have the Cash to pay, will most surely find it for their Advantage to apply to said BALDWIN. He earnestly requests all Persons that are indebted to him on Note or Book, to make speedy Payment.
JOHN WHITE Gardner and Seeds man in Seven-Star-Lane, Boston, acquaints his Customers, that he has received a fresh assortment of GARDEN SEEDS, by Capt. SYMMES, from LONDON.
JOSHUA GARDNER HAS just imported from LONDON, by Capt. CALEF, A FRESH Assortment of Spring GOODS, which he is determined to sell at the very lowest Rates for ready Money, at his Shop in Cornhill, just above the Post-Office, Boston.
JUST IMPORTED, by JOSIAH WATERS and SON, And to be SOLD at their Shop in Ann-Street, PAINTERS OYL and COLOURS, of all Kinds, in large or small Quantities, Window Glass—Brushes, &c. All Kinds of Pipes, Spices and Groceries as usual, A few of Split Pease,—Powder, &c. At the same Place may be had, A most elegant Assortment of PAPER HANGINGS. N. B. PAINTS prepared for House or Ship Painting. House and Ship Painting performed with Care and Dispatch.
M. B. GOLDTHWAIT, Begg leave to acquaint his friends and the Public, that he has just received by Capt. Symmes, a fresh supply of DRUGS and MEDICINES, Which he sells Wholesale and Retail, at his Shop near the Mill-bridge, Boston; amongst which are the following, Patented Medicines.
LOCKYER'S Pills, Cephalic Snuff, Turlington's Balsam of Life, Maredaunt's Drops, Daffy's Elixir, Stoughton's ditto, Essence of Peppermint, Hemmer's much approved Dentifrice for the Teeth, Anodyne Necklaces, Bateman's Drops, Hooper's Female Pills, Anderson's do. Cook's famous Worm Powder, Jesuits Drops, Greenough's Tincture for the Teeth, Ditto for the Tooth Ach, Hungary Water, Lavendar do. Eau de Luce. Likewise, Court Plaister, Lip Salve, Smelling Bottles very neat of different figures, genuine Carolina Pink Root, and Squire's Grand Elixir. Also, SURGEONS INSTRUMENTS, Of all Kinds, Phials of all Sorts, Marble and Glass Mortars, Lint, Surgeons Tow, Figs, Raisins, Currants, Prunes, all Kinds of Dye Stuffs, Groceries, Velvet Corks, with many other Articles too numerous for an Advertisement, all Fresh and Genuine. N. B. Doctor's Boxes put up for Masters of Vessels and private Families with every necessary direction.
JOSEPH BILLINGS, OF BOSTON, TAILOR, Has received by the Ship JOHN, Capt. WHITE, From LONDON,
SUNDRY Pieces superfine Cloths, with Shalloons, &c. to match; also four-threaded Patterns, all which he is determined to sell at the lowest Rates for Cash, at his STORE, leading to SYMMES's Wharf. Those who are pleased to favour him with the Making of their Cloaths, he will take for Pay, New-England and West-India Rum, Loaf and Brown Sugar, Molasses, Flour, Ship Bread, Cocoa, Chocolate, Beef, Pork, Cordage, &c. The above Cloths, &c. being a Consignment, he will cut a Suit of Cloaths as elegantly, and make them up as cheap and as well as any advertising Tailor from the city of London.
SAMUEL PARKMAN, Informs his friends and customers, he has received per the Captains FOLGER and SYMMES from LONDON, A complete assortment of Spring GOODS, which will be sold by wholesale or retail, (at his Shop in Union-Street) at a very low advance for cash.
NEW RICE. A few casks to be sold cheap, at the store of PENUEL BOWEN, Opposite to the Golden Ball, A L S O,
NEW Flour, Genuine Spanish and French Indigo, best Hamburg ground Madder, old Logwood, new Redwood, Alum, Copperas, &c. Chocolate warranted pure, Spices of all kinds, choice Cheshire Cheese, ditto exceeding low-priced if applied for soon, ditto Weymouth, rich and mild, ditto Connecticut, in good order for shipping. With a general Assortment of West-India GOODS. Choice Table Fish, Half Boxes eighteen Inch TD Pipes, fifteen ditto. All at the lowest Rates for Cash.
JUST arrived in Captain CALEF, And now Opening, A FRESH Assortment of English and India GOODS; which will be Sold at the lowest Cash Prices by PARKMAN and MELVILL, At their Shop in Cornhill, near the State-House, Boston.
STOLE out of the Subscriber's Entry last Tuesday Evening, a large Drab coloured GREAT COAT. If such an one should be offered for Sale, it is desired Notice may be given to ELIAS PARKMAN.
BOSTON: Printed by ISAIAH THOMAS,
At the Bottom of ROYAL-EXCHANGE-LANE, near the MARKET, Dock-Square, (over Mr. T. WALLEY's Store) where all Persons may be supplied with this Paper at Six Shillings and Eight Pence Lawful Money, per Annum, unsealed, and Eight Shillings sealed and directed; and where Articles of Intelligence, &c. are thankfully received; ADVERTISEMENTS taken in.—PRINTING in its various Branches, performed in a neat Manner, with the greatest Care and Dispatch, on the most reasonable Terms. Small HAND-BILLS at an Hour's Notice. SUBSCRIPTIONS for the SPY are also taken in by J. Larkin, Chairmaker, and Mr. W. Calder, Painter, in Charlestown; Mr. J. Hille, Watch maker, in Salem; Mr. B. Emerton, Bookseller, in Newbury-Port; Mr. M. Belcher, in Bridgewater; and by Dr. Elijah Hewins, in Stoughtonham.