New-Hampshire gazette, or, State journal and general advertiser (Portsmouth, N.H.), 1778-09-22 00:00:00

New-Hampshire Gazette. OR, State JOURNAL, and General Advertiser.
Vol. I.
TUESDAY, SEPTEMBER 22, 1778.
[Remainder of the SPEECH of Mr. WILKES, in the House of Commons, on the third read- of the Conciliatory Bills, respecting America, continued from our last.]
MR. Burgoyne held himself out as an active agent on this occasion, not by the slightest mention of any supposed military talents, but by such an abject flattery of the American Secretary, as I hope no other man in Europe could commit. He declares in a letter to Lord George Germain, dated from Hartford street, Jan. 1, 1777, "I humbly laid myself at his Majesty's feet for such active employment as he might think worthy of— This was the substance of my audience on my part. I undertook it, and I now report it to your Lordship in the hope of your patronage in this pursuit. I hope my Lord, founded not only upon a just sense of the honour your Lordship's friendship must reflect upon me, but also upon a feeling that I deserve it, in as much as a solid respect and sincere personal attachment can constitute such a claim." In his letter of June 22, 1777, he seems to have fully entered into the ideas of his principal; for he says, "that he met the Indians yesterday in Congress, and gave them a war feast according to their custom," of which war feast we know the most solemn ceremony to be drinking human blood out of the skulls of their enemies. In the same conference he consents to the mangling of the dead, for he says, he "allowed the Indians to take the scalps of the dead." Surely, Sir, an inquiry into those horrors, & the failure of an expedition, which has not only disgraced our arms, but obscured the name of Englishmen, and fixed a foul stain on our national character, is still more worthy of our enquiry than even the waste of public treasure, altho' we are, I fear, if the war continues, too near the brink of a general bankruptcy.
I observe, Sir, that gentleman has this day been very fond of giving advice to Ministers. I am not fond at any time of giving advice, but I will for once follow the example. My advice then, Sir, to administration, is, to supplicate his Majesty to order an immediate cessation of arms in North America, and to recall his forces. Humanity and justice cry aloud for this measure. The Ministers have at length confessed we cannot conquer America. To what purpose then are more torrents of blood to be shed? The Americans will accept, or they will reject your propositions. If they are accepted, the war is at an end by concession. If they are rejected, the end of the war, conquest, has been found, & is now acknowledged to be impracticable. The shedding of the blood, therefore, of a single man for an object which confessedly cannot be obtained, is not only unjustifiable, but highly criminal. Many of the measures of Opposition have been at length adopted by Ministers. I hope this the most important of all, will have the same success. An immediate cessation of arms was proposed the very first day of this session, by an excellent young Nobleman on this side the House. It will do more than all your Commissioners can without it. Perhaps it may save Howe from the fate of Burgoyne. It will give time for cooling on both sides, and at least shew that you are relenting towards your brethren, that you are eager for that peace & reconciliation, which alone can form the solid happiness of both countries, and must be devoutly wished by every friend in each to their mutual prosperity. It may save the fragments of this dismembered empire, for I own I shall tremble for the fate of Canada, nearly lost three years ago, Nova Scotia, the two Floridas, and the West-India islands, if the powerful confederacy of the Thirteen United Colonies continues.
Sir, I heartily wish success to these two Conciliatory Bills, & that we may regain by treaty,
what we have lost by tyranny and arms. I would agree to almost any treaty rather than continue a ruinous war, which has cost already above thirty millions sterling, and the loss of 20,000 men. I entirely approve the effort, although I have my fears that it is made too late. Sat bene si sat cito! Let the experiment, however, be tried, & may both Britain and America again form one powerful empire, on the principles of equal liberty, just, mild, commercial, and tolerant! We shall then be able to stand the shock of all the adverse powers of the world, again feared and respected abroad, and at home a great, united, & happy people.
Marquis of Granby, member for Cambridge University.
BOSTON, September 17.
Last Friday the militia of this town, commanded by Col. Hatch, and the independent company, commanded by Col. Hitchborn, were reviewed on the common by General Hancock; the corps made a very martial appearance; the officers of the line at their respective posts paid the standing salute as the General passed down the front. After the review, the independent company, and the company of artillery, commanded by Major Bumstead, marched into Congress Street, where the independent company went through the manual exercise with great adroitness—they then escorted the gentlemen of the Council, the members of Court, General Heath & his suit, the officers of the militia, and many other gentlemen, to the Bunch of Grapes Tavern, where an elegant entertainment was given by General Hancock—after dinner many patriotic toasts were drank, which were announced by the discharge of thirteen cannon. His Excellency Count de Estaing and his officers were invited to the review and entertainment; but it unluckily happened that the signals for the approach of a fleet were thrown out at the forts below, in the forenoon, which prevented his Excellency's coming up to town.
BALTIMORE, August 25.
Capt. Earle, in the sloop Rutledge, arrived here in ten days from Cape Francois, informs that the last arrival there brought advice, that four sail of the line, and four frigates, had been ordered by the French Court to sail immediately from Brest, to reinforce the Count d'Estaing—Capt. Earle sailed in company with the brig true American, Capt. Buffington, of 12 guns, belonging to Salem; who 3 days after she came out, had a smart engagement with a Jamaica privateer, which narrowly escaped being taken by the true American. The Rutledge left Capt. Buffington in lat. 28, long. 72, all well on board.
PHILADELPHIA, Sept. 3.
By the last secret advices we have from New York, we have authority to assure our readers, that the British army is preparing to evacuate that city, and that their destination is to Canada and the West Indies.
A correspondent observes, that in the Packet of the 16th of July last, there is an article under the London head of April 21, advising, that Dr. Berkenhout and John Temple, Esq; had the day before set out from London to Portsmouth, to embark for America, supposed to be sent on a private embassy to Congress—and that an article in the Packet of the 13th of August there is an account of the arrival of those gentlemen at New York, and hopes that the Congress will disappoint them of their base intention, (for that they can have no other) of getting among the good people of these states, in order to sow dissensions among us.
Yesterday at noon Lyons, Ford and Wilson,
late Lieutenants, & John Laurence, late gunner in the Navy of this State, were taken from the jail to one of the gallies lying off Market street wharf, where the two former were shot agreeable to their sentence, but the two latter reprieved. The number of the spectators was very great, and it is hoped the melancholy scene will have a proper effect upon the profligate and thoughtless who do not seriously consider that the crime of desertion is attended with the dreadful consequences of wilful perjury.
FISH KILL, September 10.
Accounts from New York by deserters, as well as persons came out of the city in exchange.—That the enemy by appearances, are preparing to leave the city, their heavy baggage and artillery being embarked. They are selling off the fire wood, salt, &c. which was stored for public use: all their flour is delivered to the bakers to be made into biscuit. Governor Tryon was returned with some thousands head of cattle from the east end of Long Island, and they were killing and salting them up.
NEW HAVEN, September 9.
Monday se'nnight, about 40 of our troops were drawn into an ambuscade, by the enemy, near Fort Independence, and taken or killed; 20 of whom are Indians. Among the slain is an Indian of note.
BOSTON, Sept. 17.
Extract of a Letter from a gentleman in public character, dated Providence Sept. 14.
"I have this day received advice of the arrival of a sloop at New-London, cleared out for Halifax; the captain of which informs, that on his passage he spoke with a British privateer immediately from New York, who after examining his papers, under the sanction of friendship, assured him that the British army was about to evacuate that city, with a design to re-possess themselves of Boston, and capture the French fleet. Their movements of late give every appearance of truth to this information. From our last accounts Lord Howe's fleet was anchored off Block Island, which I suppose to be the appointed place of rendezvous, where their whole force will be collected previous to operation."
By the last advices it seems that the British fleet and army are preparing to move to the Northward, with a view to destroy the French fleet, re-possess themselves of Boston. Count de Estaing we understand is prepared for them as he has thrown up such works on the islands at the entrance of the harbour, as to render it impossible for all the navy of England to enter; and we hear a number of brigades are detached from the grand army and upon their march for these parts, and every precaution has and will be taken for our defence by land.
Friday last arrived safe in port a Prize Brig laden with provision and Salt, taken by the Minerva. She was bound from the Straits of Berlisle, for some Port in Great Britain.
Same day a Brig bound from Virginia for France, put in here to rest, having sprang a leak.
Also the same Day, returned into Port the Privateer Providence, commanded by Capt. Rathburn. On the 7th ult. Capt. Rathburn fell in with about 30 Sail of Transports, all of Force, with Scotch Troops on board; one of which he engag'd for some time, having about 200 Soldiers on board, but quitted her. 'Tis said they are arrived at Halifax.
Arrived in Port the Prize Brig Medway from London bound to New York, last from St.

Augustine. —Her Cargo consists of Bread, Coals &c. captured by the Oliver Cromwell, Timo. Parker Commander, belonging to the State of Connecticut. The Cromwell lost all her Masts in a heavy Gale of Wind, the 24th August, off the Bahama's. We hear she is safe arrived in New London.
Friday last, there was a review of the Regiment of this Town, which being compleatly equip'd, made a very respectable Appearance.
We learn from Cape Cod, that as the British Fleet were passing the Capes on Monday se'night, a 64 Gun ship ran aground, where she lay till Tuesday afternoon, when she was relieved by two ships from the fleet, after taking out her guns, throwing over a great Quantity of Pig Iron, &c. Two of the Anchors weighing 5800 each, have since been landed on the Long Wharfe. They are marked "St. Alban's."
By express on Sunday last, we learn, that Lord Howe's Moon-Curiers are plundering all along the Sound; and that last week they took four Vessels out of Holmes's Hole, and destroyed one other.
Monday last arrived a prize brigantine from Plymouth, in England, bound to Newfoundland, laden with provisions, being out twelve weeks. She was taken by the privateer ship Gen. Putnam, belonging to New London.
Same day arrived a ship from Amsterdam in 60 days.
We hear the Warren Frigate, Capt. Hopkins, has taken two prizes, one a Schooner from Jamaica bound to Halifax, the other a Brigantine bound to New York, the former of which is arrived in a safe port.
Sunday Morning departed this life, after a short Illness, that great and good Man, the Rev. Andrew Elliot, D. D. Pastor of the New North Church in this Town. His remains were most respectfully interred Tuesday afternoon.
WILLIAMSBURGH, August 14.
A vessel in thirteen days from St. Eustatia, just arrived at York, brings advice of Admiral Byron's having failed from Eng and, in quest of the Count d'Estaing, with twelve sail of the line and a number of frigates; and that Admiral Barrington was arrived in the West-Indies to relieve Admiral Young, who had ordered all the heavy ships off that station to the relief of Lord Howe at New York. We have certain intelligence likewise, by the same vessel, of his Prussian Majesty and the Emperor of Germany having engaged in a war, which will give full employment to the mercenary soldiers of that count. y, leave Great-Britain to shift for herself who, seeing nothing but ruin before her, will gladly acknowledge our independence, and court our friendship almost upon any terms.
NEW-YORK, August 24.
Some Particulars of the British and French Fleets.
On Tuesday the 11th instant, a most violent tempest arose, which continuing until Friday following, dispersed both the fleets. On Sunday the French Rear Admiral, supposed to be Monsr. Bosse, of the Le Zele (the Zealous) a ship of 74 guns, and rated to have 900 men, bore down upon his majesty's ship Isis, commanded by John Raynor, Esq; of 50 guns, who permitted not a gun to be fired until his enemy approached very near the Isis, when a fierce engagement ensued, and continued, it is said, about an hour and an half. The Rear Admiral's fire being very much directed against the Isis's rigging, rendered her utterly incapable of pursuing the Zele, who wore round, and being one of the best sailing ships of the Count d'Estaing's squadron, escaped from capture merely by flight; during the action a quantity of papers were observed to be thrown out of the cabin windows of the Zele.
On Saturday afternoon, his Majesty's ship Renown, of 50 guns, commanded by Captain George Dawson, fell in with the Languedoc, of 90 guns, and rated to have 1100 men, about 30 leagues south east of Sandy-Hook; this capital ship had been dismasted in the storm, on the 11th instant. The Renown attacked her on the quarters, and kept up a steady fire against her from 4 o'clock till dark, intending to renew the engagement in the morning; but the French Admiral availing himself of the darkness of the night, brought his ship to an anchor, by which means the Renown became separated three or four miles from him. At day break, Capt. Dawson observed that Count d'Estaing, attended with several other ships of his own squadron; which occasioned the 50 gun ship to bear away, and he thereby escaped from a superiority, to himself, invincible.
His Majesty's ship Preston, commanded by Commodore Hecham, of 50 guns, and rated for 355 men,
fell in with the Le Tonat, of 84 guns, and rated for 1100 men, said to be commanded by Monsr. Bougainville, a gentleman who in the last war had the honour of serving his Sovereign in Canada, and is allowed to be an officer of distinguished abilities. The ship had lost her bowsprit and fore-mast, on the 11th instant. The Preston raked her fore and aft a considerable time, and would certainly have made a prize of her but for the intervention of several other ships of the Toulon fleet, which occasioned the Preston to leave her to their protection.
Lord Howe's PUBLIC ORDERS.
The bravery of the officers and ship's company of the Isis, amongst which the volunteers from the transports and the soldiers of the 23d regiment, have been particularly noticed, in a late action with a French 74 gun ship bearing a flag at the mizen-top mast head, and thence supposed the Zele; and the distinguished ability and resolution of Capt. Raynor, shewn on that occasion, claim from the Admiral this public acknowledgement of their meritorious services, by which they have furnished a bright example for the imitation of the British fleet.
Finding we have been misinformed in the account given in our last paper, with regard to the Count D'Estaing's apparent motives for quitting Rhode-Island, we are bound in justice to declare, upon better information, that the French Admiral is acknowledged by our naval commanders, to have acted with great spirit in putting to sea from Rhode Island on the appearance of the British squadron off that port.
Extract of several Letters, dated in April, May and June, and received by the last Pacquet.
"The relief for the guards in America, is either postponed or countermanded, and the officers under orders for America, now do duty with their respective regiments. The two Highland corps of Gordon and Murray, lately under orders for America, are, since the appearance of a war with France, ordered to Ireland, and now on Dublin duty; Lord M'Leod's regiment goes to the East-Indies. Lord Adam Gordon is appointed Governor of Tiomouth, and General Mackay to Land Guard Port. Lord Amherst is the oldest employed General, and acts as Commander in Chief, although he has not the commission. The Croakers are apprehensive for Ireland, where 'tis voted to augment their establishment 15,000 effective men. To secure North-Britain from the menaces of France, the families of Buccleugh, Gordon, and Argyl, raise each 1000 men, called the Fencible regiments, to remain in Scotland, during the war, the officers having the rank with the army, without being entitled to half pay on a reduction. The Duke of Argyle and Gen. Oughton, are both in a declining state of health; the former at Bath, the latter in Scotland. Lord Loudon is appointed to the command in chief in Scotland, in the room of his Grace of Argyle, who has ceded the command in that department on account of his indisposition."
LONDON, July 2.
Exact list of all the British ships of the line, now in commission, with their force and stations.
VICTORY of 100 guns. Formidable, (failed since) Ocean, Sandwich, Prince George of 90; Foudroyant 80: Sherewsbury, Egmont, Valiant, Courageux, Ramillies, Hector, Monarch, Barwick, Elizabeth, Cumberland, Robust, 74: Exeter, America, Sterling Castle, Bainsfaint, Belleisle, (failed since) 64; and 4 frigates, failed with Admiral Keppel, June 12.
Princess Royal, 90 guns: Royal Oak, Invincible, Cornwall, Bedford, Conqueror, Culloden, Fame, Grafton, Russel, Sultan, Albion, 74; failed with Admiral Byron, May 20.
Blenheim, Barfleur, Namur, London, 90 guns; Princess Amelia, 80; Ajax, Terrible, Torbay, Mars, Thunderer, Centaur, Suffolk, Vengeance, Resolution, 74; Monmouth, Worcester, Lion, Burford, Defiance, Buffalo, Vigilant, 64; Conquedador, Medway, 60; Antelope, Chatham, Jupiter, Salisbury, 50; at home.
Eagle, Ardent, Tridans, Nonsoch, Somerset, St. Alban's, Reasonable, 64 guns; Isis, Preston, Centurion, Experiment, Renown, 50, with Lord Howe.
Europa, 64; Romney, 50, at Newfoundland. Prince of Wales, 74; Boyne, 70; Yarmouth, Ruby, 64; Portland, Bistol, 50; West-Indies. Asia, 64; Rippon, 60; Warwick, 60, East-Indies. Panther, 60; Mediterranean.
  Total, 230   87 of the line   88 frigates   55 sloops 
According to the rules of the Navy, an English frigate is compelled to fight a French man of war of 40 guns. An English 40 a French 50. Ditto 50 64. Ditto 64 74.
And a ditto 74 the largest ship that swims the seas. The following is a list of the French fleet, which was to have come out of Brest upon Admiral Keppel's appearing on the French coast, if he had staid for them.
BREST SQUADRON.
French line of battle, June 1778.
Le Glorieux to lead with the starboard and the Bien Amie, with the larboard tacks on board.
  Commander in the second post, De Brilers.   Ships Guns Men   Le Glorieux 74 800   Le Victoire 74 800   L'Alexandre 64 650   L'Hardie 64 650   Le Ludigne 74 800   Le D. Burgoyne, De Brilers 80 920   L'Intrepide 74 800   Le Solitaire 64 650   Frigates from forty to twenty-six guns 19 or 20.   Commander in the first post, Duc de Chartres.   Le Palmier 74 800   Le St. Michel 64 650   L'Active 74 800   Le Reflechi 64 650   Le Pendant 74 800   Le Ville de Paris 90 950   Le Bretagne, Duc de Chartres 100 1200   Le Couronne 80 900   Le Lion 64 650   L'Orient 74 800   L'Artiste 64 650   Le Magnifique 74 800   L'Eveille 64 650 
  Several corvettes, xebecs, and fire ships.   Commander in the third post, Du Chaffault.   Le Dauphin Royal 74 800   Le St. Esprit, Du Chaffault 80 920   Le Robuste 74 800   Le Caro 64 650   Le Rulande 64 650   Le Destin 74 800   Le Bien Aime 74 800 
Total 28 Ships.
The American Plenipo at Turin has met with an agreeable reception; his is not to be wondered at when we consider the connection between that Court and Paris.
Yesterday at the final close of the poll at Guildhall for Chamberlain, the numbers were, for
  Mr. Hopkins 126   Mr. Wilks 287 
To-morrow his Majesty will arrive early in town, when there will be a levee at Saint James's, and afterwards a privy council;—from the summonses already issued a very full one is expected to be assembled at the breaking up of which a proclamation (or order we suppose) is expected to be issued for an immediate declaration of war.
A letter from Paris says, "his Most Christian Majesty has sent notices to the several parliaments throughout the kingdom (as it is customary, previous to a declaration of war) that a war with Great-Britain is now become no longer avoidable."
The Brest fleet has certainly sailed. Admiral Keppel has positive orders to sail this day or to-morrow.
From the difficulty of getting marines, as well as land forces, orders are sent for the 50th regiment of foot, to be removed from their camps at Winchester to Portsmouth, and immediately embarked on board the men of war, that are getting ready there to reinforce Admiral Keppel's fleet.
The day after the express arrived from Admiral Keppel, Lord Amherst ordered the heavy train to be sent off instantly to the camp at Cox heath.
Admiral Byron spoke with a merchant ship at sea, which is just come into port, and desired the Captain to take care to avoid any French ships of war, as they had all of them directions to commence hostilities directly—All the letters by the last mails from France speak of these general declarations; so that war, though not declared, is actually begun.
Several general officers on service in America, have applied for leave to return home, but have been refused till the end of the present year.
All deserters from any of the military corps are in future to be sent to the East-Indies, or the coast of Africa for life. This new regulation has been read at the head of every regiment in Great-Britain and Ireland, by his Majesty's orders.
Upwards of 8000 men have embarked from Glasgow within the last two months.
July 3. We hear that in a conversation lately passed between a right Hon. Gentleman and Lord N—, the defection of America being the subject, the minister said, that whether the efforts making to bring the Americans back to their allegiance succeeded or not, it was the intention of Administration to unite the remaining parts of the empire in such a manner as to make the power of Britain more formidable than ever, one great step of which would be, the granting of Ireland the free exercise of every natural advantage.
Sir William Howe was just five weeks on his passage from Philadelphia to Portsmouth. When he sailed from thence, no advice had been received of the Trident man of war with the Commissioners on board,

PORTSMOUTH, Sept. 21.
ON Saturday last arrived at this PORT a Packet from France, with Dispatches for His Excellency Count d'Estaing— By her we have an Account of an Engagement between the British and French Fleets— The Courier went so soon from Town, that the Printer had no Opportunity to procure the Hand Bill which he brought, and is therefore deprived of the Pleasure of gratifying the Public with a Transaction as he wished— But by Information from those who see it, and from others, who conversed with the Messenger, he can publish as authentic,— That on the 27th of July the French Fleet commanded by MD'Orvilleers fell in with the British, under Admiral Kepple, about 30 Leagues from Brest: The British Admiral endeavoured by his Manoeuvres, to separate the French Fleet, but finding them ineffectual, the Attack was begun, the French Admiral in the Bretagne of 110 Guns, was soon alongside the British Admiral; the latter, after exchanging a few Broadsides, was so disabled as to be obliged to retire from the Line of Battle; the other Ships experienced a Variety of Fortune, during the Combat, which lasted three Hours; a thick Fog then prevented any further Engagement, and the whole Fleet separated.— The 28th the French Fleet continued at Sea without seeing any thing of the British.— The 29th they put into Brest, and by Evening were all arrived without any material Loss, except three Ships being very much shattered.— During the Engagement, but 20 out of 32 were able to get up in Season.— Of the British, there were 30 engaged.— The Loss in killed and wounded was very considerable— M. M. Chaffaud, the second in Command, was shot in three Places in his Shoulder— his Son had his Thigh broke by a Ball, his Nephew was killed— On the other Side, the Loss is said to be considerable, tho' not yet ascertained— The Engagement tout ensemble was not decisive, except in this Point, that Hostilities have actually commenced in Europe, as well as in America; and what has been before but Appearance, is now Reality; and WAR, if not publickly declared, it is actually commenced, and openly prosecuted.
LETTER from the King of France to M. de la Prevallaye, Commandant of the Marine at Brest. Versailles, June 28, 1778. MONS. DELA PREVALLAYE, The Insult made to my Flag, by a Frigate belonging to the King of England, in the Case of my Frigate la Belle Poule— The Seizure by an English Fleet, contrary to the Law of Nations— Of my Frigates la Licorne and la Paline, and of my Packet; the Surprize on the Sea, & the Confiscation of Vessels belonging to my Subjects, made by England, against the Faith of Nations; the continual Trouble and Annoyance of the Commerce of my Kingdom and Colonies in America, both by Ships of War and Privateers, authorised and excited by them;— All these injurious Proceedings, and principally the Insult offered to my Flag; have put an End to that Moderation I proposed to myself, and prevent me any longer restraining my Resentment— The Dignity of my Crown, and the Protection I owe to my Subjects, demand, that I should make Reprisals, and that I should take an hostile Part against England; and that my Vessels should attack, take, or destroy all their Vessels, Frigates, or other Vessels belonging to the King of England; and that they should also take and seize all the English Merchant Vessels they may have Occasion to take— I give you this Letter, to let you know my Intention, that in all the Commissions you give, whether to Frigates or other Vessels which go from Brest, or to Privateers or Convoys, or to every Vessel without Distinction,— you direct them to attack every Vessel belonging to the King of England, which they are able to encounter; and after attacking and taking them, to bring them into the nearest Port— And I rest assured in the Justice of my Cause, in the Valor of my Officers and Men, and on the Love of my Subjects, and in the Resources I have always had on their Part.— I pray God, that
he would have you, Mons. de la Prevallaye, in his holy and worthy Keeping.— Signed,
LOUIS. Underneath, De Sartine.
Head-Quarters, Tiverton, Aug. 31, 1778.
THE Light Corps are dismissed.— The General returns his Thanks to the Officers and Soldiers for their spirited and faithful Services— Col. Trumbull, Col. Long, Col. Sherburne, Major Russell, Major Sullivan, Volunteer Aids de Camp to the Commander in Chief, are dismissed with the General's Thanks for their spirited & faithful Conduct
The General cannot, in Justice to General Cornel, General Whipple and Col. Olney, and the other Officers (who directed the Embarkation of the Troops last Evening) conclude the Orders of the Day, without returning those Gentlemen his most cordial Thanks for the great Care and Attention they paid to the embarking the Troops, and passing the Artillery and Baggage from the Island to the Main.
*****
LONDON.
Extract of a letter from Portsmouth, July 1. "The Vengeance, Defiance, Terrible and Centaur, are expected to go out of harbour the first fair wind, to join Admiral Kepple's Fleet at Spithead.
"Yesterday came into the harbour, the two French frigates, one of 32 guns the other of 36, taken by Admiral Kepple's fleet, and in the evening part of the prisoners to the number of 26, were guarded by the militia to Forton goal, and this morning more were brought on shore: They are all to come to the number of 300, as soon as proper places can be made ready for them in the prison, which will be in a few days.
Lord Sandwich is now here; he held a Board of Admiralty on board the Victory yesterday."
The fire-ships now fitting out by government are upon a new construction, and the vessels purchased of the merchants for that purpose are three deckers. Though the above vessels are not of more burthen than a sloop of war, yet the Captain and officers, from the danger of the service, rank with those of a fifth rate.
Yesterday morning an express arrived at the Admiralty, with advice that the Andromeda frigate, Capt. Byrne, from Philadelphia, who arrived at Spithead; Gen. Howe is come passenger in the above ship. The letters were delivered this day. We learn that on the 28th of May a Council of War was held at Philadelphia, when it was determined to evacuate that place, which began on the 29th by embarking the troops for New-York, which was accomplished by the 5th of June, when the Andromeda failed. The army and navy are to be situated at Rhode-Island, Long-Island, and New-York. And last night Sir William Howe, K. B. arrived in town, and had a long conference with Lord G. Germaine, and afterwards went off post to pay his respects to his Majesty.
A letter from Dover, dated the first instant, says, "An order is come from the Court to Dunkirk, signifying that any merchants who will fit their vessels for privateers shall be supplied with guns and warlike stores at the expence of the King. The above order was read publickly upon change there, and is stuck up. Two large flat bottom boats are laid down, and ten other vessels of seventy keel for Government."
It is not yet certain that the French will declare war against us, notwithstanding the late operations off Brest. She may perhaps wait to see the utmost of our strength, and how far our commissioners succeed with the Congress, which last will certainly determine their conduct.
The French King with the true politeness of his country, has, it is whispered, offered to wave hostilities for the present, provided the title won by the celebrated Harry to his dominions, be struck off from our regal additions.
Yesterday Gen. Sir Wm Howe kissed his Majesty's hand on his promotions whilst in America.
The arrival of Sir William Howe at this juncture, is a favourable circumstance for administration, as they will be able to know from that officer, whether the King's Commissions will or will not be received by the Rebel Congress; and whether there are, or are not, those dissensions between Mr. Washington and the said Congress, on the score of receiving the said commission? But will they tell any body of those things?
The retreat of Mr. Kepple from before Brest, the more it is considered, the more it ought to be applauded. Matters are now reduced to that extremity, by our risking bungling Ministers, that this country can have no other dependence than on the prudence of our Admirals and Generals. And if the French should land with twenty-five, or thirty thousand men, the same prudence should govern Admiral Kepple, not to risk a battle with an inferior force, because, if that is once lost— all is lost; nay, if London was to be the sacrifice, it ought not to be done; for melancholy and disgraceful as the idea is, it is the only method left us to save the remaining part of the island.
We are informed beyond a doubt, th. Ad. Kepple accepted the command he now has, with the greatest reluctance, as it was given him under certain restrictions, but the King pressed it on him before his instructions were communicated to him, and then it was too late to admit of any delay.
Lord Longford's conduct to the Captain, or rather to the crew of the Licorne, has met the warmest approbation of the King; and we hear he has commissioned Admiral Kepple to tell him so.
Whatever superiority the French might have had in the number of their ships at Brest, it is thought, by people the most intelligent in maritime affairs, that Admiral Kepple was under no necessity of quitting his late station off that harbour on that account. While he remained there, it was impossible for the enemy to venture out of port. They could not bring their whole fleet out at once; and any thing less must have perished in the attempt.
If Admiral Kepple cannot put to sea till a reinforcement of only eight or ten ships are ready, he will not fail this week or ten days. If a single Brest fleet is so much superior to us, what are we to do when Spain is joined to France! We have lost the dominion of the sea. There is a new era in the history of mankind. Great-Britain has lost America and is no longer mistress of the ocean. This happened in the reign of George the Third.
Orders are given to fit immediately three floating batteries between Grave-end and Tilbury, in order to make signals, should occasion require it.
Imported in the ship Return,
From St. Croix, now lying at the Long-Wharfe in Portsmouth, TO BE SOLD on Board viz.
WEST INDIA RUM by the Puncheon,— West India Rock SALT, TEA— Old Iron— Lead— Saddle-ary Ware,— Knives and Forks,— Coat and Vest Buttons— Ten six Pouncers, with all belonging to them— Small Arms— Powder, Men's Gloves,— Half worn Cable thirteen Inches,— Sails— Cordage that has been used, A few Tons of Lignum Vita — Copperas, And a Chest of Carpenters Tools. Sept 14.
|| Relhan. ||
WHEREAS the proprietors of RELHAN at their legal meeting on the 25th of August 1778, did vote the sum of nine Billings L. B. on each 100 acre lot laid out to each proprietor, to pay the charges of Incorporation, and other contingencies, and committed the said tax to the subscriber to collect and pay to the treasurer, this is therefore to notify said proprietors, that unless they pay the same, their lands will be publickly sold at auction for payment thereof with charges.— And all delinquents for former taxes are requested to settle with me who am appointed for that purpose. Daniel Fowle, Collector. Portsmouth, Sept. 14, 1778.
*****
Taken up thirty Leagues south
of Halifax, by the Fortune's Prize, a Schooner, with her Sails chiefly gone, and towed into this Port, which will be sold 6th of Octob. next. Any Person or Persons belonging to the United States, claiming said Vessel, and proving their Property, shall be dealt with as the Law directs. ROBERT PARKER, Agt.
Portsmouth, Sept. 8, 1778.
TO BE SOLD.
SUNDRY Dry Goods, both of FRENCH and ENGLISH ASSORTMENTS, some choice Cask CLARET, SWEET OYL in Bottles, &c. — For further Particulars, Inquire at Mrs. Tilton's Tavern, Portsmouth Sept. 7, 1778.
Sixty Dollars Reward,
DESERTED from my Company, Col. Hale's Regiment in the Continental Army, the following Soldiers, viz. Enos Jewel, Sam. Ash both of Newton; Ebenezer Jenkins, of Brimfield, all belonging to the State of New Hampshire. Whoever shall take up said Deserters or either of them and secure them, so that they may be returned to their Duty, shall have Twenty Dollars Reward for each, and all necessary Charges paid by
CALEB ROBINSON Capt. Camp, White Plains, Sept. 6th 1778.
Sundry Landed Advertisements come to hand but must be omitted till our next.

ONE HUNDRED AND FIFTY DOLLARS REWARD.  Deserted from Capt. Fairwell's Company, in Col. Cilley's Regiment, in the Night of the third Instant, the following Soldiers, viz. Sergeant Asa Holt, six Feet high, dark Complexion, black Hair, and blue Eyes; Tho's Harper, 19 Years old, five Feet, ten Inches high, light Complexion, light Hair, black Eyes; Samuel Harper, five Feet nine Inches high, light Complexion, red Hair, dark Eyes; John Harper, 17 years old, five Feet, ten Inches high, light Complexion, light Hair, dark Eyes. Also, deserted from Capt. Wait's Company in the same Regiment, and at the said Time, Philip Judkins, five Feet, 3 Inches high, dark Complexion, and dark Hair, 28 years of Age. All the above-mentioned Deserters wore off their Regimental Coats, Green turned up with Red, and carried off their Arms. Whoever shall take up all or any one of said Deserters and secure them in any State Goal, and give Notice to any Officer belonging to said Regiment, shall have thirty Dollars Reward for each of them, and all necessary Charges paid by us, Isaac Fairwell, Captain, : first New Hampshire Jason Wait, Captain, : Regiment. Camp, White Plains, August 9th, 1778. 29-31
State of New Hampshire. BY VIRTUE of a Licence from the Hon'ble Phillips White, Esq; Judge of the Probate of Wills for the County of Rockingham, will be sold at public Vendue, on Monday the fifth Day of October next, at the Dwelling-House of Noah Emery, junr. in Exeter: A certain piece of Meadow and Upland in said Exeter, containing nine Acres, also a piece of Pasture Land, containing eight Acres, and a part of the Home Lot, with part of the House and the Barn standing thereon; all which was set off to the Widow Hannah Dudley, late of Exeter, deceased, for her Dower of the Estate of her late Husband, Truesworthy Dudley late of said Exeter, Gentleman, deceased, and is to be sold for the payment of his Debts, by JOHN DUDLEY, Administrator to said Estate. Exeter, September 5th, 1778. 29-31
State of New Hampshire, Hillsborough Co.  Whereas I the subscriber have given public Notice in the New-Hampshire Gazette, agreeable to an Act of the General Assembly of said State, relative to the Proprietors Lands in the Township of Antrim with the Number of the Lots and the Taxes thereto annexed, and notwithstanding, a number of said Proprietors have not paid said Tax: Wherefore I do hereby agreeable to said Act, give public Notice to all such as have not paid their Tax on said Land, that so much of said Land will be sold at Public Vendue on Monday the 23th Day of September next, at ten o'clock Beforenoon, at the House of the subscriber in said Antrim, as will pay said Taxes, and other Charges. JAMES DUNCAN, Constable. Antrim, August 31st, 1778. 29-31
Taken up Damage Feasant, a Gray Brindle Hester, two Years old last spring, marked with a Swallow's Tail on the right Ear, has a white spot on her Belly. The Owner may have her again, paying the Cost and Damages. Brimfield, Sept. 5. Jonathan Dudley.  Good Encouragement will be given to any Person who will undertake to carry the Exeter Papers through the several Towns in this State. Enquire at the Printing Office.
SAMUEL PLACE At his SHOP near the Long Wharfe in Portsmouth, informs his Town and Country Customers, that he makes all Sorts of Gold Smith and Jeweler Work, in the neatest Manner. He has now a Large Assortment of  GOLD RINGS and SILVER BUCKLES the neatest and most fashionable Patterns that are made. Silver Spoons, large and small Stone Rings, Stone Buttons, Stone Earrings, Gold ditto, Gold Necklaces, Stock-Buckles, Brooches, Thimbles, Buttons, Stone Pins &c. An Assortment of best Metal Buckles. All which he will sell as cheap as in any Shop in Town, and as low as is sold in Boston, or elsewhere. He will be much obliged to all who favour him with their Custom. Constant Attendance given. Cash given for Old SILVER or GOLD.
To be sold by Huldah Bowden Widow, Administratrix of the Estate of John Bowden, late of Exeter, in the County of Rockingham, deceased, Intestate, at the House of Jonathan Gage of Dover, in the County of Strafford, Landholder, on Thursday the 22d Day of October next, at two of the Clock in the Afternoon, EIGHTY ACRES of Land in Gilmanstown, in the said County of Strafford, being part of the Real Estate of the said Intestate, and is contained in Lot No. 15, in the second Range, from Barnstead Line, is called, in the Division of said Town; which said Lot was set off to the said John Bowden, and is to be sold by Order of the Judge of Probate, for the Payment of the Debts of the said Intestate. Kittery, Sept. 7, 1778. Huldah Bowden.
RAN AWAY from me the Subscriber the 4th Instant, a NEGRO MAN named Prince, about twenty four years of age. Had on when he went away blue Breeches, a good Hat, white Stockings, and a light coloured Coat, speaks good English, and plays on a Violin, hops on his left Leg. Whoever shall take up said Negro, and secure him in any of the State Goals, shall have Ten Dollars Reward, & all necessary charges paid, giving me timely Notice. Sept. 16, 1778. JOSEPH PATTINSON of Newington
State of New Hampshire, Rockingham ss.  To all whom it may concern,  NOTICE is hereby given, that a LIBEL is filed before me against the Schooner LIVELY, her Cargo, and Appurtenances, about ten Tons Burthen, Nathaniel Weston late Master, — which Vessel is said to have been seized and taken between high and low water Mark in Hampton River, and brought into the Port of Piscataqua by Henry Nutter, Esq. — For the Trial of the Justice of said Capture, a Maritime Court for said State will be held at Portsmouth on Monday the 18th Day of this Instant, at which time and place any Persons concerned, may appear, and show Cause. (if any they have) why the same should not be condemned. J. BRACKETT, Judge of said Court. Portsmouth, Sept. 8th, 1778.
Protectworth. ss Whereas the proprietors of Protectworth, at a legal meeting held at Portsmouth the 7th day of Decemb. 1775 voted a tax of three pounds on each original proprietors right, for defraying the expenses of surveys, roads and other demands — Also, at another legal meeting held January 25, 1778, they voted another tax of two pounds eight shillings to defray the charges of alms-houses, roads, and the State tax for the year 1777. — And at another, on the 29th of August 1778, the said proprietors voted a further tax of two pounds ten shillings to pay the State taxes for the year 1778, and for the discharge of sundry accounts exhibited, justified and allowed; and several assessments being made for the said taxes on each proprietors seventy five acre lot, and the collection of the same committed to me the subscriber, and as the following proprietors are delinquent in all their payments, — this therefore is to notify them, that unless they pay the same to me, with the incidental charges, on or before the 10th day of November next, I shall proceed to make sale of so much of said delinquent lots as will be sufficient to pay said taxes, with the charges of notifying and selling the same, as the Law directs, with which none can be dissatisfied after this publication. Delinquent Proprietors 75 acre Lots. George King, Esq; No. 1, in the 1st Range, North of the East and West Road, West Division, L. 7 18 0 Rogers Han, No. 2 ditto, 7 18 0 John Gossom, 3 ditto, 7 18 0 Leverett Hubbard, Esq; 4 ditto, 7 18 0 Peter Curtis, 5 ditto, 7 18 0 Samuel Warner, 6 ditto, 7 18 0 John Pierce, 7 ditto, 7 18 0 John Churchill, 8 ditto, 7 18 0 Robert L. Powell, 9 ditto, 7 18 0 Stephen Cogan, 10 ditto, 7 18 0 William King, 11 ditto, in the same Range East Division, 7 18 0 Eleanor Russel, Esq; No. ditto, 7 18 0 Daniel Warner, Esq; 2 ditto, 7 18 0 Forster Trefern 3 ditto, 7 18 0 Daniel Pierce, Esq; 4 ditto, 7 18 0 John Parker, Esq; 5 ditto, 7 18 0 William Knight, 6 ditto, 7 18 0 Daniel Sherburne 7 ditto, 7 18 0 Joshua Westworth, 8 ditto, 7 18 0 Daniel Grindal 9 ditto, 7 18 0 M. H. Westworth, 10 ditto, 7 18 0 Jonathan Warner, Esq; 11 ditto, 7 18 0 John Barter, 12 ditto, 7 18 0 John Marsh, 13 ditto, 7 18 0 Alexander Welch, No. 10, lying West of Lot No. 1, in the North of said Road, West Division, 7 18 0 Giddins Mass, No. 11 in the same Range, West Division, 7 18 0 William Partridge, junr. North of King's and Cogan's Lot, 7 18 0
TO BE SOLD, at private SALE, by Virtue of a LICENCE, from the Hon. Phillips White, Esq; Judge of Probate, &c. for the County of Rockingham, a new and convenient Dwelling-House, & Lot on which it stands, being very suitable for a small Family, situated at the North Part of the Town of Portsmouth, being part of the Real Estate of Richard Sanborn (deceased) to be sold by his Administratrix. For Particulars of Sale, apply to Mary Sanborn (deceased) Administratrix to said Estate. Portsmouth, Sept. 11, 1778. JOHN WENDELL, Collector. Portsmouth, Sept. 3d 1778
On Wednesday the 23d Instant,  WILL BE SOLD, At Mr. SHEAFF's and FERNALD's Wharves, At the North End of the Town,  ONE Brigantine, a Sloop, and six Schooners, from eighty down to twenty Tons Burthen, with their Sails, Rigging, Cables and Anchors. — Inventories to be seen at the Place of Sale. Also a Quantity of dry FISH, a few Casks of OYL. some SALT, Cables, Anchors, Fishing Lines and Leads, &c. &c. — Sale to begin at Ten o'Clock. Portsmouth, Sept. 8, 1778.
All Officers, Seamen, & Marines That have any Demands against THOMAS THOMP-
Mr. Esq; late Commander of the RALEIGH, for Prize-Money, are desired to call at his House in Portsmouth.
STATE OF NEW HAMPSHIRE. WHEREAS the Proprietors or Owners of Unity in the State of New Hampshire and County of Cheshire were notified to pay their State Tax for the Year 1777 last June to Mr. Caleb Huntoon Collector for said Unity; many of whom are still delinquents: These are therefore further to notify the said Delinquents that unless they pay the several Sums as hereinafter mentioned annexed to each original Proprietors Name with incidental Charges, so much of their Rights or Lots of land as will be sufficient to pay the said Sum that remain due, will be sold at public Vendue at the Dwelling House of Capt. Nathaniel Huntoon in said Unity Town on the first Wednesday in October next, at one o'Clock Afternoon.     No. Lots Names Shares Names Shares     1 50   2 100 J. Shurburne 2 21 100   3 150   4 50   5 150   6 50   7 50   8 100 John Mason 1 Benjamin Sanborn 1   9 100 Thomas Clough 2 46 100   10 100   11 50   12 50   13 50   14 50   15 50   16 50   17 50   18 100 Jan. Bean 2 34 100   19 50   20 100 Isaac Godfrey, 2 17 50   21 50   22 50   23 50   24 50   25 50   26 50   27 50   28 50   29 50   30 50   31 50   32 50   33 50   34 50   35 50   36 50   37 50   38 50   39 50   40 50   41 50   42 50   43 50   44 50   45 50   46 50   47 50   48 50   49 50   50 50   51 50   52 50   53 50   54 50   55 50   56 50   57 50   58 50   59 50   60 50   61 50   62 50   63 50   64 50   65 50   66 50   67 50   68 50   69 50   70 50   71 50   72 50   73 50   74 50   75 50   76 50   77 50   78 50   79 50   80 50   81 50   82 50   83 50   84 50   85 50   86 50   87 50   88 50   89 50   90 50   91 50   92 50   93 50   94 50   95 50   96 50   97 50   98 50   99 50   100 50    CALEB HUNTON, Collectors Unity, August 25, 1778. 28-30.
Barnstead. State of New Hampshire, Rockingham ss. WHEREAS the proprietors of Barnstead, in the county of Strafford, and State aforesaid, at a legal meeting held the 28th day of March, A.D. 1775, did vote that ten shillings should be assessed on each proprietor's sixty acre lot — sixteen shillings and eight pence on each proprietor's hundred acre lot — and two pence L. M. on all other lands in said Township purchased, or held by such proprietors in severalty, in equal proportion to the original right of each proprietor in said Township — Which has been duly assessed, and Warrant for collecting the same by the 20th day of March 1776, committed to me — Of which the said proprietors & others have been repeatedly advertised, and requested to pay the same, yet most of them have, and do neglect to pay — Wherefore such delinquents are again notified, that unless they pay to me (at my dwelling house, in Newington, in the county of Rockingham aforesaid) at or before the last day of October next, their said taxes, with incidental charges, so much of their lands will be sold, as will be sufficient to pay the same. Ephraim Pickering, Collector. Newington, Sept. 14, 1778.
Barrington. THESE are to give Notice to all those that have not paid their Rates or Taxes in the Town of Barrington already, are desired to meet me the Collector of those Rates or Taxes, at the House of the Widow Tilton in Portsmouth, on the second Tuesday in October next, being the 13th Day of said Month, at ten of the clock in the Forenoon, 1778; and at Barrington the fourth & eighth Day of said October 1778 at the House of Mr. Samuel Fols, Innholder at said Barrington, at ten of the clock before Noon. Joshua Holmes, Solomon Hall Collectors. Portsmouth : Printed by D. Fowle.