The Freeman's journal, or, New-Hampshire gazette (Portsmouth, N.H.), 1776-10-12 00:00:00

THE GREENWICH JOURNAL
OR New-Hampshire Gazette.
[ Vol. I. ]
SATURDAY, October 12, 1776.
[ No. 21. ]
By Capt. Thomas Palmer, of this Port, who sailed from Bourdeaux in France, the 15th of August last, arrived here on Friday last, in the Brigantine the Marquis of Killdare, we have Dublin Papers to the 1st of August, from which are extracted the following Articles.
GENOA, June 15.
A N English ship arrived here last Tuesday in twelve days from Cadiz, the master of which has deposed, that had met with a French squadron, and that a Spanish squadron had sailed from the port of Cadiz, which was to join the French.
L O N D O N.
June 20. By a gentleman just arrived from St Maloes we learn, that when he left that place, which was the 29th of May, "there were 4 American vessels just arrived there, deeply laden with wheat and flour; that the Americans take in return, arms ammunition, and other goods they want; that the French are very fond of the Americans, or seem to be so; and that the American ships slip out in the night, when there is a fair wind.—That several ships were lost, French & Dutch, on that coast while he was there, by storms of wind, thunder and lightning; and that he believes the crews were all drowned, as he saw a number of dead bodies which were thrown on shore."
It is very certain that the troops under General Howe at Halifax, are much worse off there in every respect than they were at Boston. Letters from the Hospital surgeons say, that their sick have died in great numbers since they were removed from Boston. Extract of a letter from Capt. Hannel, commander of an armed brig, fitted out at Jamaica, in the service of Government, dated from Nantucket.
"I have to inform you, that I unfortunately fell in with, off Cape Nichola Mole, the Ranger Privateer of 20 guns, belonging to the Americans, commanded by one Miles Hudson; she had under her protection three sloops and one snow, laden with fire arms & ammunition, the latter of which we bore down upon with an intent to take; but the Ranger perceiving our design hauled our wind, run under our stern, fired her broadside, and raked us fore and aft, killed eight and wounded five of our men: we engaged her near two hours, when they boarded us sword in hand; and finding ourselves overpowered, we were obliged to strike our colours. I am suffered to walk about, being on a parole of honour, but the inferior officers and the crew are confined in a house about 3 miles from this place."
A letter received from Jamaica mentions, that a sloop had been fitted out in the nature of a privateer by some persons at Kingston, by permission of Admiral Gayton, to cruise for the American vessels, but had been seized by the populace, who demolished the mast and all her sails, threw the guns overboard, and scuttled the vessel.
It has been just discovered how ministry came to the knowledge of some material transactions of the congress. One —, who is a clerk to a merchant in the neighbourhood of Fenchurch-street, being at New-York in last December, where he pretended greatly to disapprove of the proceedings of Government against her colonies, and approving of every step the Americans had taken to preserve their rights and liberties from violation; and being a man of good address, was invited into the best company, particularly by the Treasurer of the Congress, who when he came away, delivered a couple of letters to him to deliver upon his honor as directed. — pledged his honour that he would. Contrary to his promises, as soon as the ship arrived in England, he put them into a cover, & directed them to Lord Dartmouth, and desired the Captain to send them with his packet.
A gentleman who saw Frazier's new raised Scotch regiment just before they embarked for America, says, he never in his life beheld so despicable a corps. They were composed of boys from 15 years of age to old men of sixty, and chiefly officered by writers clerks.
Advice is received from Admiral Gayton, that one of his Majesty's frigates on the Jamaica station had taken two American privateers, one of 14 and the other of 12 Guns, and carried them into Port Royal.
A gentleman who arrived in the last packet from New-York, says, that he had lately gone through all parts of New-England, &c. and was amazed to find such numbers of people learning the use of arms, and all seeming to try to out-do each other. That in the back settlements there were forges for casting of cannon, Mortars, &c. Plenty were cast; and they had good stock of brass and iron for casting more. He also saw many soldiers who had deserted from the King's forces, some of whom were learning the young men their exercise; and all who behaved well had preferment in the provincial army.
July 26. A letter from Kingston, Jamaica, dated June 1, says, — "At Montserrat & Nevis they are in great want of provisions, and the legislative powers in those islands have offered premiums for the importation of Flour, bread, beef, pork, herrings, Butter, rice, corn, peas, and beans. A few days ago arrived at Port Royal, from England, his Majesty's ship Boreas, — Thompson, Esq; commander, with three transports under her convoy, said to carry the 50th Regiment to America."
To the honor of a noble Lord in administration, who was the other day informed that the Treasurer of one of the Northern colonies of America, lately come over, had brought off a large sum of Provincial Cash, with which he had been intrusted; he gave it as his advice, that the money so brought off should immediately be attached by Government, or the treasurer be sent back by the first opportunity to account with the people of the province from whence he came; for that, although we were unfortunately
engaged in a contest about constitutional points (which every good man wished to see speedily accommodated) it was by no means our wish to be considered by the Colonists as encouragers or protectors of such land pirates or free-booters, as might fly hither from Justice, under colour of having been friends to government in that country.
Capt. Rose, of the Catharine, who is arrived at Dover, from Jamaica, on the 16th inst. spoke with the Amazon and Garland men of war, with a fleet of upwards of eighty transports under their convoy. All on board were in high spirits; and on the 21st he spoke with another fleet consisting of about 30 sail. Both fleets were bound to Quebec and Halifax.
Capt. Williamson of the Francis, who arrived in town from Antigua, brings us the following account, viz. that a few days after they were on this side the Bermuda Islands, the following ships were taken by the Revenge and Montgomery American Privateers, viz. the Fanny Blyth, from Barbados to Halifax; the Rover, Hunter; Isabella, Kirk; and Devonshire, Fisher, from Antigua, bound to Ireland, and the Polly, Lear, from ditto, for London; and the Harlequin, Goodwin from Nevis, and carried them into Salem; they had also taken Capt. Williamson, but being in ballast, they released him.
Forty per cent. insurance was offered on Wednesday, and 50 per cent. insured yesterday on some of the above ships. It is said Privateers will in consequence of the above intelligence, be fitted out here immediately.
A correspondent says, it is curious enough to read over the finesse and cunning evasions of the Scottish Gazette, which exceeds that of Brussels in impudence and falsehood.
If an engagement happens at sea, we hear nothing of the ships which are taken from us. If any are taken from the enemy, though the bulk of an oyster boat, we are sure to have it added to the list on the Gazette. We have lost four sloops of war in one engagement, and several more armed vessels. Near 50 transports of valuable cargoes, whose names we know stand among the number employed by government, yet this vile paper of imposition is silent about the transports, and makes a parade of victory, for the Glasgow, who run away. Look at the land movements: If Howe is forced from Boston with 10,000 men who were to have conquered all America, the Gazette calls it "a resolution to remove;" if he leaves only 200 pieces of cannon, and one half of the King's stores, it says, he leaves nothing behind him. A Secretary of state too affirms this upon the honor of a Lord.
It is said a new regulation is going immediately to take place, for conveying all letters and expresses to and from America. The vessels appointed for that purpose are to consist of six armed swift sailing vessels, commanded each by a Lieutenant in the navy.
[ For more London News by Captain Palmer, turn to the last page. ]

D U B L I N, June 28.
What news? Why great but not bloody. The rebels and plunderers, as martial law Governor Carleton calls them, are not cut to pieces. They wanted neither skill nor courage to take Quebec, but only good battering cannon, and have only gone to Montreal to rest themselves, till they shall be better prepared. By the governors own account there was little prowess, or danger in driving away said plunderers, a few shots only having been exchanged, and after the line marched forward it seems they sneaked off! Well! the less danger the less honor, and it is plain that neither the suburbs, nor the properties of his Majesty's loyal subjects could be preserved from Provincial depredations. Their having retreated to a secure strong hold, is as Lord Suffolk says, "Only shifting a position!" But if, with all our own forces, and foreign mercenaries, our Gazettes extraordinary shall, in future, only have to boast of defensive successes, the great object of the war will never be obtained, but disgrace and ruin be the probable consequences of unhallowed attempts against the liberties and properties of a free people.
July 29. We hear that lord Cornwallis has landed the troops under his command, and that general Lee with a body of the provincials are on their march to attack him.
By authentic accounts received, we can with pleasure assure the public of the safe arrival of the 28th regiment in Virginia, with the rest of the transports under general Clinton—This regiment was 13 weeks on their voyage from Cork
We hear that instructions, from the lords commissioners of the admiralty of Great Britain arrived here by the last packet, for the condemnation of all American ships & merchandise that may be taken by any ship of war or privateer and bro't into any port of this kingdom, and confiscating the same as lawful prizes, for the use of the captors: It is not doubted, but that many spirited merchants will fit out cruisers, to enrich themselves at the expence of our rebellious subjects, notwithstanding the prevailing factious disposition of too many in Ireland, who seem to wish success to the arms of their Trans Atlantic friends. We also hear, that in expectation of this event, the Free Citizens, and other Patriotic Societies in Dublin, are raising subscriptions for the use of such American crews, as shall be confined in the goals of this kingdom, as they happen to be brought in.
The following band bill was lately deliver'd to many members of two great Assemblies.
By an account of extraordinary services incurred and paid by the Right Hon. Richard Rigby, paymaster general to his Majesty's forces between the 9th of March 1775, and the 1st of Jan. 1776, and not provided for by parliament: ————— It appears there was paid, between the 31st of March, 1775, and the 27th of January (being less than ten months) to Thomas Harley, & Henry Drummond, Esqrs to be by them applied & invested in the purchasing Spanish and Portugal coin, for the use and service of his Majesty's forces in N. America, the sum of 408,809 l. 5 s. 1.
If the above sum was required for the use and service of a body of men (never exceeding eight thousand) in the space of less than ten months, how much specie will it be necessary to send to North America in 12 months, for the use and service of 40,000 men, which our Scotch ministers have determined shall be there this summer, to give the cowardly REBELS a compleat crush?
The answer is, £ 2,455,355.
Quere, If the above 40,000 men should attempt entering upon action, whether the expence will not increase the above sum very considerably?
Whether any part and how much of the above sum can be expected ever to return hither again, and when?
How long can an annual drain of 2,455
355 l. of specie last, without danger of entirely oversetting our public credit?
Whether the North Americans, tasting the sweets of such immense wealth flowing into the country, will not keep themselves wholly upon the defensive 'till we are exhausted by expence, so as to be forced to yield to their terms?
Mr. PRINTER,
As your Correspondent Namora, has treated the author of the piece signed, "What you will" with the contempt and neglect that such a despicable jumble of prophaneness, Insolence and incongruity deserv'd; and which would be the best way of reducing those Enemies to justice, and to the peace and happiness of the United States of America to a proper temper of mind, and to prevent their accomplishing their malevolent designs (if we could once prevail upon ourselves to adopt such a mode of conduct towards them) I beg leave through the channel of your paper, to make a few remarks upon What you will's performance, and then to prescribe some mode of conduct to be put in practice towards all such detestable being: : and without adopting What you will's ironical stile, or without the help of "political microscopic glasses" I think that writer has made it too evident that we have some among us who not only refuse to submit to the authority by which we are governed, but in the most insolent and unprovoked manner, ridicule those by whom we consent to be governed. I have no disposition to satirize or burlesque "What you will:" It is a matter of too much moment to admit of such trifling with; and he by his Impudence and insolence has rendered himself too detestable to be treated as a fair antagonist. But what I have in view is, to represent "What you will" in such a point of light as will discover his opposition to all measures we have taken, and are taking to defend our unalienable rights, lives and fortunes, from the most atrocious insults, and invasions. — And can there be a more striking and incontestible evidence of any person's opposition to a community or state, than for him in the most open and insulting manner to ridicule and insult the legislators for that state; and despise the mode of government by which the state is governed? And is not What you will guilty of this charge? Is it Namora, or is it those in whom we have reposed the highest trust and confidence, and the measures they have adopted for our preservation, that he so contemptuously lampoons? and what obedience can we expect persons will yield to the authority they dare openly to dispute? Surely he must want the help of "microscopic glasses" indeed, that does not perceive that they will yield no obediences at all, but will oppose it whenever a favourable opportunity presents; and is it not possible that such an opportunity may present, if timely precaution does not prevent it? But who is "What you will" Shall I call him by name? Or what matter is it whether he is a person who always protested against non-importation, and all other methods taken to baffle the designs of our enemies; and has since our new forms of government had posts of honour and profit confer'd upon him; and who still continues to associate with those who are wishing our destruction; or whether he is one of those two, who walked the parade with their gowns, at the general muster to raise men for our northern army, making their remarks and casting reflections; or whether he is that traitor who, for the sake of gain, has been supplying the colonies with implements of death, to destroy those, whose power and Authority he wishes to extend and support, since that writer can be named whenever called for; and since all those refer'd to, with the rest of their confederates (who are notorious to all persons of the least discernment) do by their conduct manifest to the world their unfriendly disposition towards the colonies and (as Namora observed) discover the greatest satisfaction in every disappointment of the American troops; and as sensible grief at the disappointments of our enemies. — And from what has been observed, is there not a glaring absurdity to suppose that these unnatural beings! will stand neuter if we should be assaulted by our enemies? How then does it become us to conduct towards them? Is it not of the utmost importance, that we immediately break off every connection with them, and instead of suffering them to occupy posts of trust and honour; and monopolizing riches and grandeur to themselves, ought they not to be deprived of every kind of offensive weapon? And would it be uncharitable or inhumane to deny them (such as meditate and wish our destruction) of all subsistence, but what they can obtain among themselves; while they continue of their present disposition? As for their "winking and nodding" they might wink till their Optics were dim, and might nod, till their "offending heads dropt off their unoffending bodies" if their ridicule and contempt was all I valu'd (tho' Mr. Gore of Boston for winking to his sister to come across the street was seized and put in Jail). * But, my friends they that despise authority will not obey it; and they that will not obey will oppose: Then ought we not while we have all the powers of Britain, and all they engage on their side to contend with; to rid ourselves of those domestic Pests? Rouse ye Friends to your country, ye friends to justice and humanity, ye friends to the freedom and happiness of your fellow creatures;
rouse from your insensibility, and see your danger before it is too late: mistrust every one for your enemy who does not manifest by his deeds that he is your friend, repose no confidence, nor confer any post on any whose conduct has not been uniform and friendly; deprive those who would deprive you of life, of the means to accomplish their designs: break all connections with them, and leave them to condole each other under the ill success of their own machinations, under the detestation of all who love virtue, and hate vice; so shall ye have the approbation of your own conscience, the interposition of divine Omnipotence, and the never ending blessings of Posterity.
A. B.
* And by the treatment our friends met with from Ben. Davis and others of his detestable clan, we may have some so estate of what we shall feel from their resentment, should they ever have us in their power. Portsmouth October 7. 1776.
PHILADELPHIA, September 25.
A pilot-boat, mounting one two pounder and a few swivels, fitted out at Baltimore in maryland, is just returned from a cruise, having taken two large sugar Ships, one of which is safe arrived.
Extract of a letter from St. Eustatia, Aug. 30.
"A Spaniard from Biboa, who was lost on Bermuda, contradicts the report of the Spaniards and Portuguese having settled their differences, and adds, that 30,000 Spaniards and 1000 French were on the confines of Portugal, and that they are making great preparations for war."
Extract of a letter from a General Officer at Ticonderoga, to an Officer in this city, Sept. 4. 1776.
"The enemy must come on; and, I think, they will be severely drubbed, for we are in a good posture to receive them. General Arnold has got down with the fleet, having on board about one hundred pieces of cannon, who it is very probable will take the fiery edge off the enemy before they reach us. — If we succeed at New-York, the game is up, and Great Britain undone. What sudden mischief a few designing men can bring upon a Nation! But Britain was lost before. And should America ever reach the same pitch of luxury and corruption, she too will fall. Liberty can only subsist with virtue."
NEW YORK, September 28.
Tuesday evening last arrived at Elizabeth Town from Quebec, in 4 transports, about 420 of our people that had been taken prisoners at different times in Canada.
Wednesday last Brigadier General Sullivan who was lately taken by the King's troops on Long-Island, was exchanged for General Prescott, who commanded at Chamble. General McDonald would not be accepted for Lord Sterling.
NEW LONDON, Sep. 27.
Extract of a letter from a Gentleman in our army near New-York, dated Sept. 23d, 1776
"Some say part of the fleet are laid—if they are going off it is most likely they are going on the last part of their orders, to burn and destroy all the Seaports. In the action of last monday we killed of the enemy 300, and wounded 500."
We hear that a serjeant was to be shot at our camp near New York, at 11 o'clock last Monday, for quitting his post in the battle of last Monday week.
HARTFORD, October 7.
By the Ticonderoga post who left that place on Tuesday last, and came to town the Friday following, we are informed, that Lieut. Whitcomb, who killed Brigadier General Gordon near St. John's, (as lately mentioned) had arrived at head-Quarters, and brought with him two prisoners, one of whom was an Ensign, who informed that the enemy had got a 20 gun ship on the stocks, nearly compleated, together with several schooners that would carry 12 guns each, with a number of flat bottom'd boats—That letters had been received by Gen. Gates from General Arnold, informing that he expected the enemy would attempt to cross the lake soon—That the health of our army in that department was greatly restored.
Tuesday evening last arrived at Elizabeth town, from Quebec, in 4 transports, about 420 of our people that had been taken prisoners at different times in Canada—The names of some of the officers are as follows, viz
General Thompson, Col. Irvine, Lieut. Correy, Lieut. Bird, Dr. McKinney, Rev'd. Mr. M'Calla, Lt. M'Dougall.
PROVIDENCE, October 5.
On Sunday last Capt. Gideon Crawford arrived here from Nantz, in France, after a passage of 8 weeks. He informs that great warlike preparations continue to be made in that kingdom, where every kind indulgence is shewn to American vessels.
The same day arrived here from a successful cruise the ship Columbus, Capt. Abraham Whipple, in the service of the United States, having taken four prizes, viz. a brig from St. Croix, bound to Scotland, with 265 hogsheads of rum, 1 tierce and 12 barrels of sugar; a ship from St. Christophers bound to London,

with 291 hogheads, 59 tierces, 23 barrels and 12 kilderkins of sugar, and 15 hogheads and 3 barrels of rum; a ship from Grenada, bound to London, with 300 hogheads of sugar, 57 hogheads of rum, 1 pipe and 2 hogheads of wine and some cotton; and a brig from Montserrat, bound to Cork, with 218 hogheads of rum.
BOSTON, October 10.
Last Tuesday arrived here from a cruise, the armed Schooner Lynch, Capt. John Ayers, who on Friday Sept. 27, in lat. 39, 45, and long. 49, 00. saw a fleet of 49 sail, among which were 5 frigates, and two 3 deckers. One of the frigates gave him chase, which continued from noon, 'till half past 11 at night; and was at one time within 2 miles of him, and finding he overhauled him so fast, was obliged to throw overboard his guns, stave his water, &c. and by it's growing dark, was the means of his escaping being taken.
A sloop, laden with lumber, was, last Saturday, sent into this port, by captain Waters. She was from the eastward, and bound to New-York, to supply those very blood-hounds of Britain there, whose hellish cry continually is, Havoc, Blood, Murder, & Plunder , from the cowardly, Yankie, American Rebels. 'Tis really a pity some method could not be taken, to banish those sons of tyranny, oppression and slavery, out of this (determined to be) free Western American Empire.
Last Friday was sent into Marblehead, by Capt. Greely, in the privateer Speedwell, fitted from this place, a prize snow from England, bound to New-York. She has on board the following articles of provision, 56896 wt. of bread, 80202 wt. pork, 256 bushels and seven gallons pease, 257 bushels oat-meal, 16000 wt. beef, 12064 wt. flour, 4136 wt. rice, 4101 wt. raisins, 165 gallons oil, 537 dit. vinegar, 3500 dit. spirits, 4645 wt. butter, and 460 dozen candles.
Monday last, was sent into this port, a prize ship, upwards 300 tons, from the same place, for New-York, with like articles as the snow above mentioned, only with the addition of four 3-pounders, and 6 swivels: taken by Capt. Silas Atkins, junr. By the people taken in her we learn, that the common people in London, are made to labour for ONE SHILLING sterl. pr day; that, FOUR PENCE of that shilling is extorted from each man every day, for the payment of the foreign troops, now employed against the United States of America. And in case of failure in payment, they are to be considered as soldiers in the King of Britain's service, and do duty accordingly, whether at Long Island or Gibraltar, was not, when the ship left England, finally determined on.
A Letter from a gentleman, at Providence, to his friend in this town, dated Octob. 5th, has the two following paragraphs in it, viz.
"A ship comes up, (a prize) bound from London for Quebec, loaded with English Goods of all sorts, taken by a state brig belonging to this place. And, yesterday a large ship went into Newport, laden with sugar.
"The two Continental Frigates here have fallen down, got their guns, and will be ready to sail in 10 days. One carries twelve 18-pounders, fourteen 12-dit. eight 9 dit. the whole 34. The other, twenty-eight guns. Their names are, the Warren and Providence . Capt. Hopkins, commands one, & Whipple the other."
Extract of a letter from Middletown, in Connecticut, Oct. 5.
"A report to day that our army have drove the regulars from Powle's-ferry, (or hook) and killed 30 or 40. The returns made to General Howe of the killed and wounded on Long Island were, first return 1850 men, 3 general officers were killed. — second return which was ordered to be made, was 1848, so that the first and second return differed but 2 men — This was their whole loss on Long Island — They lost 510 in the New York engagement, wounded, and in hospitals. — Five waggons were employed all night in carrying off their dead, into the city. — Our people found upwards 100 regulars dead on the field of battle —"
Extract of a Letter from Harlem, N.Y. Sep. 29.
"A few days ago one Dr. Hull belonging to Wallingsford, Connecticut, was drummed out of his regiment, for selling soldiers certificates that they were unfit for duty. He
charged 8d. for each man, and any one in his regiment might have had a certificate for that sum. I think he deserves to be advertised as a scoundrel as much as Wentworth.
—The enemy and we lie looking at each other like two cats in a garret; neither seems disposed to attack. — We have no news, only it is said, that a party of our guard last night retook from the enemy a chest belonging to one of our regiments, some beds."
Last Wednesday returned to Salem after a short cruise, the Brigantine Massachusetts, of this State, commanded by Capt. Souther. He informs that a few days after he sailed he fell in with and took a Brigantine of about 250 Tons from Falmouth in England, mounting 6 3 pounders, and having on board a Captain and about 20 privates of the 16th regiment of Dragoons with their horses and accoutrements, also the Chaplain of said regiment, and some dry goods, which the Captain says is his own property. The whole number of Prisoners 35. This Vessel sailed from Falmouth the 27th of July, just a month after they embarked, in company with 12 others, under convoy of the Daphne of 32 Guns, from whom they parted but a day or two before they were taken; they all had the same kind of cargo, making in the whole 230 horses. A fleet of about 70 sail sailed about 3 days before them, under a strong convoy, having on board the 16th Regiment of Dragoons, and the last Division of Hanoverians, consisting, 'tis said of 5000 men, bound to New York; they were short of horse provisions some of the horses died of the Stargers, and 'tis supposed the late gales have destroyed many more. The People in England we hear began to be very uneasy. The abovementioned Prize, is safe arrived at Townsend.
By a Gentleman From Providence on Tuesday we learn, that two prizes were sent in there just as he left that place, one of which was from London, with dry goods, bound to Quebec, very valuable, the other a ship from Jamaica.
Last Monday Capt. Forrest returned to Salem from a cruise, in which he has taken 5 prizes, one of which is of considerable value, as the bill of lading of her cargo that is come to hand amounts to £36,000 sterl. Capt. Forrest put his prisoners ashore at Cape Finister, where he was informed that the Spaniards had made a public Declaration of War against Portugal, and were ravaging the frontiers of that kingdom.
We just hear a Prize Sugar ship is sent into Plymouth, and two into Dartmouth.
PORTSMOUTH, October 12.
On the 16th of September ultimo, Captain Palmer (who arriv'd here the 4th Inst.) met with a large Fleet of English transports consisting of 33 sail, three of which he took to be men of war, and being so near them, that he and a Gentleman passenger on board him, who is going to South Carolina, were oblig'd to throw their valuable papers and letters over board.
These Gentlemen also inform us, that the French have two Fleets at sea, one of eleven the other of nine sail of the line, which is supposed to cruise in the Mediterranean, in order to prevent the progress of the Russians there. In all the ports in France, the American ships are received and treated with the utmost cordiality & indulgence imaginable; — That the French were daily in expectation of hearing that the Americans had declared their Independency of Great-Britain — That the Spaniards had (last July) laid an Embargo on all shipping outward bound in all the ports in Spain, as a declaration of war was daily expected between the courts of Spain and Portugal.
Should a war be declared between these powers, England will be oblig'd (as by treaty) to step in, in behalf of Portugal, which will inevitably be the cause, of bringing Spain and France into a war with Great-Britain, as France is determined to assist Spain, should a war with Portugal take place. — Quere, How can Great-Britain be able to wage war against so formidable powers as these, particularly as the trade of England seems (at this critical period) to be very much on the decline; and public credit greatly diminished. Oh! what havock hath Kingly Ambition wrought in the British Dominions; the loss of the better part is already effected; and the remaining part seems to pine for, & bitterly regret the loss of their once Great Power, Grandeur and Glory. — Her Roses & Lillies are faded, and her Laurels blasted, by the putrid air, or noxious vapours of Monarchical power, venality and base corruption.
Last Sunday arrived at Saco a small prize Schooner sent in by the Putnam Privateer, John Harmon Commander, having on board 300 bushels of salt and some oyl. Next day
arrived another Schooner, taken by the same privateer, having on board 375 Quintals of green fish, and some oyl; she brings an account of another small vessel taken that is not yet arrived, and one that they took, which was afterwards drove ashore by a frigate — The Vessel lost, but the people got on board the privateer again; the frigate drove the Privateer into a harbour, and came to anchor, with intention of keeping her in; but Capt. Harmon got one of his guns ashore on a point of land, & fired on the frigate, when she returned whole broadsides into the woods at them, but did no damage — Capt. Harmon after a few shots was so lucky as to cut away her fore-stay, which obliged her to come to sail, and put to sea.
Last Wednesday arrived at Falmouth, a Prize ship, of between 3 & 400 tons, from Portsmouth in England, to Quebec, laden with Powder, Nails, Beef, Butter, &c. had 16 carriage-guns, 8 of which were mounted. She was taken by a Privateer from Newbury, by stratagem.
Since our last arrived in this Port, two prize Schooners, the Glasgow and the Neptune, laden with fish & oyl, to a considerable amount, taken off the banks of Newfoundland, by Capt. Robert Parker, of this Port.
This morning a small prize Schooner with 200 quintals of Fish, was sent into this harbour; she was taken by Capt. Calton in the General Gages privateer from Salem.
Wednesday last, was ordained Pastor of the first church in Exeter, the Rev. Mr. Isaac Mansfield.
Wednesday next the General Assembly of this State is to meet as Exeter, by desire of the committee of safety, in consequence of a Resolve of Congress, relative to forming a new Army.
MONDAY October 14.
This paper, (tho' dated for last Saturday) was prevented from being handed to the Public, 'till this day, by the Boston Papers not arriving until last evening; thinking it would be more acceptable on Monday, with the Southern News, than on Saturday, without it.
State of New-Hampshire, Rockingham ss.
LIBEL being filed before me, against the Schooner named the Glasgow, burthen about 35 tons, her cargo and appurtenances, commanded by John Cabot: — Also against the Schooner named the Neptune, of about 50 tons burthen, her cargo and appurtenances, commanded by Thomas Fuller, which vessels are said to have been the property of some inhabitant or inhabitants, subject or subjects of Great-Britain, and taken and brought into the county of Rockingham: This notice is given, agreeable to the laws of said State, that the maritime court erected to try and condemn all vessels found infringing the sea-coasts of America, and brought into the county of Rockingham, will be held at the court house in Portsmouth, the 29th day of October instant, at 10 o'clock before noon, to try the justice of said captures, that all persons concerned may appear and shew cause (if any they have) why the said vessels, their cargoes and appurtenances should not be condemned.
J. BRACKETT, Judge of said Court. Portsmouth, October 9th 1776.
To be SOLD for a CERTAIN TIME, or Let by the month,
A genteel sprightly NEGRO FELLOW, in fine health, about eighteen years of age; he can be recommended for many good qualities, has served at sea and land; waits on company well, and is extremely desirous of belonging to a Captain of a privateer, or going in one, as may be agreed. For further particulars enquire of the printer.
WHEREAS it is advertized in the public prints by the clerks of the inferior and superior courts, respectively, for the county of Rockingham; that business will be entered and acted on, in the several courts in the month of November next, viz. in the inferior court on the first tuesday of said month, and in the superior court on the 3d tuesday in said month, to which time said court stands adjourned: This is to give notice to all persons, for whom I am concerned, as Attorney or Agent, in either of said courts, that I have removed from the country to my house in Portsmouth, nearly opposite to the Custom house, and next door to Samuel Peabody's Esq; where all persons may know the state of their several Actions, in which I am engaged, and have any future business, either in law or the scrivener's way, transacted with fidelity, and dispatch, by the public's very humble servant, OLIVER WHIPPLE.

POET'S CORNER.
The two following emphatical lines are in a Dublin paper of June 20, 1776.
A RECEIPE.
WHEN Men become superior to the laws, 'Tis Time, O friends, to call another cause.
L O N D O N, July 9, 10 and 11.
So attentive has government been to reward their minions in America, that all the tea consignees at Boston have been amply provided for. among others, young Clark is made Consul at Quebec, with a salary of 600l. a year. In such a manner is the revenue of this fleeced country squandered away, by a set of rapacious Ministers, who seek only their own interest, and providing for the tools of despotism.
A remonstrance, we hear, is preparing by our Ministry to be laid before their High Mightinesses by Sir Joseph Yorke, our Ambassador at the Hague, setting forth the illicit trade, and the encouragement given, notwithstanding his Majesty's repeated proclamations to the Americans, who trade to the Dutch settlements with goods of the American produce, and are furnished in exchange with arms, gunpowder, saltpetre, and Dutch East India goods.
A sensible political writer (the author of the present state of Europe) says, that, "if the whole habitable world was divided into three hundred parts, the proportion of those parts to the several quarters of the globe would be Europe 27. Asia 101. Africa 82. America 90.
Hence it appears that all Europe is not one third as large as America; nor does Great Britain make a 30th part of Europe. Great Britain, then, is not equal to one ninetieth part of all America, nor to one fiftieth part of what is called British America. This circumstance, added to her present great and increasing population, amounts (says a correspondent,) to a proof of the utter impossibility of our ever subjugating the Americans.
July 29.
Extract of a Letter from an officer in lord John Murray's regiment, to his friend in Edinburg, dated Halifax June 8.
"Yesterday we arrived here, after a voyage of 40 days, so agreeable, that, in my life, never so much time passed so short. I now have a noble view before me, no less than three hundred sail, men of war, transports, victualling ships, &c. under the command of admiral Shuldham. Lord Howe, who is to command the whole fleet, is not yet arrived, but is daily expected. In the mean time the fleet here is under sailing orders; where, we do not know, but we have reason to believe New York is the place of our destination. It was on the 29th of April we left Greenock, thirty three sail in company, consisting of two battalions of the 71st, and our regiment, convoyed by the Flora frigate. In a few days we parted with her, and the whole fleet, in a gale of wind, off the coast of Ireland. We made the best of our way for Boston; and, in a fortnight, fell in with five of our transports in lat. 50, or near the banks of Newfoundland. We sailed in company 'till the 3d of June, when our ship being the foremost, we were bro't too by the Merlin sloop of war. She informed us, that we were 40 leagues to the south west of Halifax; that Boston was evacuated the 17th of March last by our troops; & that they now lay at Halifax, under the command of general Howe, and were
to sail in a few days on an expedition to the southward, supposed to be against New York; that the whole coast of New England was infested with a number of armed vessels and privateers of great force; and that we had a few men of war lying in the harbour of Boston, yet we ran the greatest risk of being taken by the enemy, if we did not immediately put back for this place, which he advised us in the strongest manner to do: And accordingly we put back, and arrived here yesterday."
The ordnance stores shipped for America since the 25th of March, 1775, it is said, cost upwards of a million and an half sterling.
Letters from Greenock mention, that accounts are received there from Halifax, which advise, that all the transports with the Highlanders were safely arrived, and were lying in the harbour when these accounts came away.
A gentleman from Halifax says, that before general Howe sailed, a number of New England men had come over to him, who gave a terrible account of the want of clothes, arms, tents, & camp equipage in the provincial army.
This morning advice was received from Dover, that the Resolution, Sims, from Halifax, was safe arrived there, with some dispatches, dated June 26. It is said she brings an account that lord Howe, in the Eagle man of war, with a fleet of transports to the amount of 60 sail, had joined his brother, (the general) with the train of artillery; that the troops, both foreign and English, were in good health, and had sailed on an expedition.
It is said, government does not expect any dispatches relating to the operations of the above army 'till some time in August, when probably they will have something material to lay before the public.
General Howe is now invested with a full power of granting all commissions of every rank.
By a letter from Cork, dated the 23d inst. we are informed, that on the same day the Minerva transport arrived there in 23 days from Halifax, and brings an account, that previous to her departure, lord Howe, with the troops from Europe, had joined general Howe's army then embarked, by which junction they were 22,000 strong, & had sailed to the southward.
Last week the workmen in his Majesty's rope-yard at Woolwich, were put on double days, the same as in war time, which they have not been since the present disputes with America commenced.
An evening paper of last night, says, that general Lee is intrenched up to the chin before New York, with 15,000 effective men; and that Col. Arnold is encamped within a few miles of Quebec, with near 20,000 fighting men; so that we soon expect to hear of warm work from both those quarters.
By a ship which arrived a few days since from Quebec, we learn, that after the arrival there of general Burgoyne with the English troops, an estimate was made of their force, which amounted in the whole to 15,000 men, besides Canadians, French settlers, &c.
The following ships, belonging to New York, are arrived at Lisbon, to trade with the Portuguese, viz. the Seaflower, Savage, in thirty six days; the Samuel, Hodge, in thirty days; and the Friendship, Exon, in 35 days.
We have it from undoubted authority, that Mr. Stanley and Mr. Jenkinson are gone to Paris with proposals to cede all Canada to the crown of France, upon conditions of their taking an active part against the Americans.
A letter from Cadiz, dated June 12, says the fleet which sailed from thence about a
fortnight ago, were bound to the coast of New England, where they are to have orders from the Congress to act in conjunction with the French fleet, which were to join them there."
Cash for RAGS,
At the following Rates, viz. Two Pence L. M. pr pound, for white Cotton, Linnen, or Cotton & Linnen One Penny, for white Canvass, —and— One Copper for mix'd colours, —will be given by the Publisher of this Paper.
P. S. It is requested of those who take any Satisfaction in exhibiting Saving Examples, encouraging Manufactories, serving the Interest of their Country, or being served themselves with the News-Paper, that they would comply with the trifling, tho' necessary article of saving their R A G S.
Just come to hand, & to be sold at the Printing-office, and at the shop opposite Mr. William Appleton's Book-Store, —
An easy plan of
Discipline for a Militia,
By TIMOTHY PICKERING jun.
A TAVERN
JUST opened by WILLIAM BREWSTER, at the sign of General Washington, a few rods back of the state-house in Portsmouth; where Gentlemen and Ladies may be accommodated with genteel Lodgings, a good table, and the best Liquors the times afford; also good stabling for horses, and constant attendance, &c. &c. &c.
N. B. Said Brewster has for many years kept a house of Entertainment for the members of the Hon. General-Court, and other Gentlemen of distinction, and now hopes to merit the approbation of all good customers.
Portsmouth Sept. 26, 1776. 9—1
EDWARD EMERSON, earnestly desires all those who are indebted to him, to make immediate payment, that he may be enabled to fulfil his engagements with his Creditors. As he has lately lost great part of his interest by our unnatural enemies, hopes his debtors will cheerfully comply with his request, otherwise they must expect their notes and accounts will be put in suit. — Said Emerson has to sell the hulk of a new double deck'd BRIGANTINE—and at his shop opposite the Town-House in York, a small assortment of English and West-India GOODS, which he is determined to sell as cheap as the times will admit.
York, Sept. 26, 1776. 9—1
State of New-Hampshire, Rockingham, ss.
A Libel being filed before me, against the ship named the Royal Exchange, burthen about one hundred and fifty tons, her cargo and appurtenances commanded by Lawrence Bowden; which vessel is said to have been the property of some inhabitant or inhabitants of Great-Britain, and taken and brought into the county of Rockingham, This Notice is given, agreeable to the Laws of said State, that the Maritime Court erected to try and condemn all vessels found infesting the sea-coasts of America, and bro't into the county of Rockingham, will be held at the court house in Portsmouth, on Thursday the 17th day of October next, at 10 o'clock before noon, to try the justice of said capture, that all persons concerned may appear and shew cause (if any they have) why said vessel, her cargo and appurtenances, should not be condemned.
J. BRACKETT, Judge of said Court. Portsmouth, Sept. 26, 1776. 9—1