The Freeman's journal, or, New-Hampshire gazette (Portsmouth, N.H.), 1776-08-24 00:00:00

Greens's Journal
O R
New-Hampshire Gazette.
[ Vol. I. ]
SATURDAY, August 24, 1776.
[ No. 14. ]
M. de Voltaire's PROPHECY, contained in a letter wrote to that Great Statesman, the late Lord Chesterfield, in the year 1772 which PROPHECY is now fully accomplished, with respect to Great-Britain. A letter said to be written by M. de Voltaire, to the late Earl of Chesterfield.
Y OU desire to have my thoughts on the present state of Europe; I rather, now, expected you would have asked my opinion about other matters which I happened to be thinking of, when your last letter was brought me by Mr. S. It took two or three of the first years, after the Paris peace, before the rulers of kingdoms and states could think themselves relieved or at ease, from the inroads of the wild beasts of the forest. Three years more were taken up in making fences. The rest, even to this day, has been employed in sharpening weapons. One I suspect has laid a train of such a dangerous nature, as must soon kindle into flame, and set the whole house on fire.—We shall not probably stay to see much of it.—Your * spot has passed its meridian; Luxury has taken root; the unexpected wealth got from the poor of a distant country by robbery, has changed the bulwark of the English constitution, your House of Commons. The people who have ruled your young K—, and the kingdom, never were taught the right idea of what we used to define liberty. Such blindness and obstinacy, or what is worse, is doubtless permitted.—Provisions, which I find by your public papers are dear in England, will not be lower till taxes on the industrious are lessened, and that cannot happen till your national debt is reduced. The rulers of Europe, I am afraid, have it now in their power to prevent that event. If I was one of the band, I could find the turnpike road.—In the midst of your nation's folly, and blindness, I can see a new world opening that will prove an asylum for all your honest industrious people; and I think a few years will discover the island of Britain to have, for its inhabitants, only two sorts of animals, Tyrants and Slaves , [litterally true!]
* England.
FOR T-PITT, July 6, 1776.
At a meeting held this day, at this place, present, Kias-huta, a Mingo Chief just returned from the treaty at Niagara; Capt. Pipe, a Delaware Chief; the Shade a Shawanese Chief; with several others, Shawanese and Delawares; likewise Major Trent, Major Ward, Captain Nevill, his officers, and a number of the inhabitants. After being seated, Kias-huta made the following speech:
"Brothers,
THREE months ago I left this place to attend a treaty at Niagara, to be held between the commanding officer at that place, and the six nations,
Shawanese, Delawares, &c. but I was stopped near a month at Cannywagoe, as the commanding officer had sent word to the Indians not to assemble until he should hear from Detroit. While I was at Cannywagoe, 800 Indians of the six nations, hearing of my intention of going to the treaty, came to meet and go with me. Just as we arrived at a small village beyond Cannywagoe, they received a message from the commanding officer, acquainting them the treaty was over; but they notwithstanding, persisted in going. I received a message, at the same time, inviting me to come and assuring me, that the council fire was not yet entirely extinguished. Upon my arrival, with the rest of the Indians, I informed the commanding officer, that I had come a great distance to hear what he had to say, and desired that he would inform me; but he told me, that he was not yet prepared to speak with me, which ended our conference."
Kias-huta then produced a belt of the wampum which was to be sent from the six nations to the Shawanese, Delawares, Wyandotts, and Western Indians, acquainting them that they were determined to take no part in the present war between Great-Britain & America, and desiring them to do the same.
N. B. Kias-huta has the belt, and is ordered by the six nations to send it through the Indian country.
He then addressed himself to the Virginians and Pennsylvanians, in the following manner:
"Brothers,
"We will not suffer neither the English or Americans to march an army through our country. Should either attempt it, we shall forward them three times from proceeding; but should they then persist, they must abide by the consequence. I am appointed by the six nations to the care of this country, that is, to the care of the Indians on the west side of the river Ohio; and I desire you will not think of an expedition against Detroit; for, I repeat it to you, again, we will not suffer an army to march through our country." A string.
Kias-huta again rose, and spoke as follows:
"Brothers,
"Should any mischief chance to be committed by any of our people; you must not blame the nations, nor think it was done by the approbation of the Chiefs, for the six nations have strictly forbid any of their young men or tributaries to molest any people on their waters; but if they are determined to go to war, let them go to Canada and fight there." A string.
Kias-huta then addressed himself to Captain Pipe, a Delaware Chief, desiring him to inform his nation of what he had heard, & to request them to be strong, and join with the other nations in keeping peace in this country. A string.
He also recommended to the Shade, Shawanese Chief, to do the same. He then desired the foregoing speech might be distributed through the country, to quiet the minds of the people, and convince them that the six nations and their adherents did not desire to live at variance with them.
To which Captain Nevill returned the following answer:
"Brother Kias-huta,
"I am much obliged to you for your good speech on the present occasion. You may depend we shall not attempt to march an army through your country, without first acquainting you with it, unless we hear of a British army coming this course, in such case we must make all possible speed to march and endeavour to stop them."
To which Kias-huta replied, there was not the least danger of that as they should make it their business to prevent either an English or American army from passing through their country.
N E W - Y O R K, August 5. We have now in and near this city, a larger army
perhaps, than ever was in one place in America before.
At Philadelphia it is reported, that we have taken a ship from Lord Dunmore, laden with linen, said to be worth 20,000l.
Saturday last an heavy cannonade was heard, supposed to be an Engagement between our Gondolas and the Men of war that lately went up the North River; and we have been favoured with the following Particulars by a gentleman who was an eye witness to the attack.
At about a Quarter after one the Gondolas came up with the shipping, and the Lady Washington being the foremost, fired a Shot which hulled the Rose, who was then under way, and obliged her to come to an anchor. The Phoenix and Rose then began a very heavy fire which lasted for an Hour, and twenty Minutes and was as smartly returned. Four Shot were seen to strike the Shipping but the Smoke encreasing very soon prevented us from saying with certainty, what farther execution was done. During the Action we had one man killed, one had his leg shot off and another badly wounded; there were 6 or 8 more slightly wounded. The Spitfire, received 13 shot in her hull. The Lady Washington unfortunately split her gun, & one other of the Gondolas received considerable damage which occasioned 'em to retire until they could rest. The Spitfire (after the Lady Washington who had got out of the line of Battle when she first fired, and in consequence of Orders fallen back) was the foremost during the Engagement. The Distance was about Half a mile.
August 8. Yesterday came in two deserters from the fleet, by whom we are informed, that Lord Howe is preparing for an attack, their field-pieces were put on board a vessel, and it was supposed that the forces would land on Long-Island, while the shipping attack the city.
Extract of a letter from Philadelphia, Aug. 3.
"Capt Fowler in a sloop belonging to your city, is arrived at Egg Harbour with 4000l. worth of indigo, in 12 or 13 days from Charlestown; she passed the fleet in a thunder storm.—By him we learn, that two deserters from the fleet confirm the account which Gen. Lee received from the five deserters already published here, and farther add, That the brig that had the Capt. of the Commodore on board for London, had returned off Spencer's inlet; the said Capt. soon died after he got on board, and was buried on Long-Island the 3d of July: That the men began to grow sickly, and they are dissatisfied with Gen. Clinton's conduct; they suspect he keeps a private correspondence with Gen. Lee: That there were some talk of his being under an arrest: That the last rumour among them was, of their embarkation for Long-Island in New-York government. The Commodore's ship is much shattered, it will take them some time to rest. The 4th of July he hoisted his pendant on board the Experiment. One shot from the Fort took off three midshipmen's heads, who happened to stand in a range, one of whom is a Nobleman's son."
"A few days before Capt. Fowler sailed, the whole fleet was in mourning, supposed for the death of Sir Peter Parker, who was wounded, and lost part of his breeches in the late engagement.—Capt. Fowler thinks the two large ships will not be able to go over the Bar, so as to get out."
Extract of a Letter from New York, dated August 4th.
"Friday the 2d instant, the ships that passed up North-River were from 11 o'clock to one, engaged by six of our Row-Gallies, who sustained the fire of the Phoenix of 44 guns, and the Rose of 28 guns, for two hours, their broadsides poured in as fast as they could discharge them; finally, for want of either a proper tide, or prudence, Col. Tupper who commanded the Gallies threw out a signal for the Gallies to retire. The Lady Washington is returned to the City; she alone commenced the attack against both the ships, who

Were previously prepared, and had got springs on their cables; and sustained for more than a quarter of an hour the fire of both those ships; she received 13 shot in her hull, and one of her two and thirty pounders cracked for a considerable length; they have however handled the ships very roughly. Col Tupper writes the General, that a great many splinters and pieces of the ship soon after the Action passed by the Gallies, who are preparing for a second attack.—Last night four ships chain'd & boom'd, with a number of amazing large Chevaux de Frise were sunk close by the Fort, under the command of General MIFFLIN which Fort mounts 30 pieces of heavy Cannon; we are thoroughly sanguine that they never will be able to join the British fleet, nor assistance from the fleet be afforded to them; so that we set them down as our own. The British Army still remain at Staten-Island, and the fleet at the Narrows. Last Thursday forty sail of Ships arrived to the British fleet; and Yesterday 20 more, and 40 more were in sight; supposed to be foreign troops.—This day we have a report circulating that the foreign troops refuse fighting, unless a Cartel for the exchange of Prisoners is previously settled. Mr. Tracy who went with the flag to Lord Howe was treated with great politeness; by all accounts his lordship is as good a man for the errand on which he is sent, as the British nation could possibly fix upon; he is a gentleman of very great abilities, master of chicanery and deception, and believes it is in his power either by persuasion or threats, to bring about a reconciliation; the event of things will prove how greatly he is mistaken. I congratulate you on the Capture made by one of the armed vessels in the service of the UNITED AMERICAN STATES, on board of which I understand is that infamous villain Ben. Davis; I hope you will H—him. In the late engagement between the Gallies and the enemy's ships, there was on board the Gallies 3 killed, 2 mortally wounded, and 14 others slightly wounded; what loss the enemy sustained we are not yet able to ascertain. We expect as the enemy have received a considerable reinforcement, that they will soon make an attack—From the amazing spirit of the army, which from the best information I can get, amounts at least to 40,000 men, we shall give them such a reception, as will oblige them in spite of their prejudice to the contrary, to acknowledge the Americans to be the bravest people they ever contended with.
'Tis reported the Troops at Staten-Island are very sickly.
To the Printer of the Pennsylvania Packet.
Philadelphia, July 5, 1776.
By publishing the following translation of a letter written by a French officer now in the service of the States of America, to a French Nobleman in Paris, you will oblige your's, F. P.
MY LORD,
“After the permission you were pleased to grant me to come to this country, I am at last arrived: not without many dangers & great expence. I found here a happy people, averse to oppression, without any spirit of sedition, active and laborious, with all the necessary qualifications required to the foundation of a powerful republic, able to support itself without the assistance of Europe. This immense country possesses all advantages, and its true riches consist in the produce of its soil. It is as yet in its infancy; but still it is a vigorous child, that in reality has no more need of its mother nor its neighbours, provided it never intermeddle with the balance of Europe. Perhaps, my Lord, you will not consider these things in the light that I do; but this country might be the greatest market for our manufactures, could we once give those people a taste for those which we have in great abundance, and with which Great-Britain used to furnish them, to the amount of immense sums. I found the people generally inclined for absolute independence, and willing to support it with their lives and fortunes. I was surprised to see their troops exercise and manœuvre as well as they do; and were they not animated by the love of liberty, they would be an unparalleled prodigy; but when that takes place, all wonder ceases. I visited many of their fortifications which have been raised with an amazing celerity. I never knew so many & such good works performed in so short a time. I was accompanied in this tour by several General Officers particularly by Majors General Putnam and Gates, and a member of the Congress. I told them my opinion of those works, and I have been desired to raise some necessary ones here where they are required.
This Government, its form, its liberty, are so similar to that of the antient and once happy people of Bretagne (the country of my nativity) that I am delighted with it. And, if I can be useful to the United States, I intend to end my days in them. I shall regard my original country and its subjects as my family, and if I can be useful to them, and anything advantageous to the American States, and equally agreeable to France, could be proposed here, I would undertake to offer it with the greatest pleasure, without requiring from the King of France either bonds, pecuniary rewards, or any other mark of gratitude. All my satisfaction, would consist in the inward feelings of my soul, if I could once by my endeavours set on foot a commercial correspondence—
equally beneficial to my former country, and that which I now adopt. You will imagine, my Lord, that I am too hasty, but permit me to assure, you, that after mature deliberation, and positive information of the strength of America, I am convinced they are able to resist against all their enemies. If the Americans have not the greatest knowledge in the art of war, they have great advantages from the situation of their country, undaunted courage, determined resolution, and the best and most glorious cause. Nothing will be able to divide them. Every precaution is taken against their interior enemies whose number is insignificant. Such a solemn and well supported resolution gives me the highest opinion of these privileged souls, who defend their rights without ostentation or faction, and who desire only Liberty and Independence. They already feel that such a state is not a chimera as is too generally thought in Europe, Switzerland excepted.
I have the honour, my Lord, to enclose you the Declaration of Independence, published yesterday by the Honorable Congress of the United American States, and to prevent the danger of my letter mis-carrying, shall send it by duplicate.
I have the Honor to be With respect, my Lord, your most humble And most obedient servant
From the PENNSYLVANIA EVENING POST.
TITLES are the offspring of monarchical or arbitrary governments. While the object of the present war with Great-Britain was reconciliation, the titles of Excellency, Honourable, &c. were submitted to by the people of America, but since the declaration of independence, the colonies have divorced monarchy for ever, and become free and independent states. It becomes them, therefore, to adopt the simple language of free governments. The Roman Senate, in the height of its glory and happiness, had no other title than Senatus populus que Romanus , that is, the Senate and people of Rome.—Scipio was addressed by the name of Scipio at the head of his army. Aristides was called Aristides in the councils and public streets of Athens. Let us leave the titles of Excellency and Honourable to the abandoned servants of the King of Britain, while we satisfy ourselves with beholding our Senators, Governors, and Generals rich in real excellence and honor.
A Commonwealth's Man.
From the New-York Journal.
Mr. PRINTER,
The inclosed note was sent from one officer to another on Staten-Island, by a stout Negro, who not approving the service of his new masters, brought it over to this city. It breaths so much humanity and kindness, and is in such a spirit of peace and accomodation, as shews how much the officers sent hither, second the peaceable intentions of their masters.
Dear Stanton,
“The Bearer I have sent you, thinking him a strong able fellow, and fit to cut throats; so if you approve of him, keep him in your corps.”
Your's, &c. T. STRAUBENZEE.
Saturday, July 20, 1776.
Extract of a letter from the Camp at Elizabeth Town, dated July 25.
“Yesterday a rifle man crossed the river and when within 15 yards of the enemy's out posts, desired them to surrender; at that instant he received a ball thro' his head, which killed him on the spot. This morning we had a deserter from the Asia, who says, that 2000 Highlanders have arrived within these few days, and that the enemy intended attacking Now-York as soon as possible.”
From the Essex Journal.
Newbury-Port, 1776.
Mr. Mycall,
THROUGH the kindness of Providence this town is well provided with Gun-Powder; it is therefore every person's duty and interest to preserve his own stock of it, and as men in general are not acquainted with the method (though very easy) I will just inform such, that all powder, whether in casks, horns, cartridges, &c. should be constantly turned once in two weeks, or three at
most, to prevent the Salt-Petre, from descending, which by long continuance in one position makes the strength of Powder unequal on that account, and the effects very uncertain.
Gunners of forts, or ships, and all those who have the care of large quantities of Powder should be very particular in the above respect.
Your's &c. W.
BALTIMORE, (Maryland) August 7, 1775.
Capt. John Campbell, Commander of the Enterprise Privateer, from this place, has taken and sent into Chincoteague, a brig loaded with Molasses; and a ship from Barbadoes, to England was sent into Sinepuxent, on the 24th ult. When the brig left Capt. Campbell, he was in chase of a ship, deeply laden, and expected to be in possession of her in a few hours. The Prize ship which is safe arrived in Sinepuxent, is said to have on board a great quantity of Spanish dollars, &c. &c. and was taken by Capt. Campbell on the 18th ult.
NEW-HAVEN, July 10.
The State of Rhode-Island, & Providence Plantation, have Voted and resolved, “That if any person within that State shall, under pretence of preaching or praying, or in any other way and manner whatever, acknowledge or declare George the 3d king of Great-Britain, to be their rightful Lord and Sovereign, or shall pray for the success of his arms, or that he may vanquish or overcome all his enemies, shall be deemed guilty of high-misdemeanor,—& upon conviction thereof shall forfeit and pay to that State, the sum of One hundred thousand pounds, lawful money, and pay costs of prosecution.”
Extract of a Letter from New-York, July 22.
“Yesterday a Lady was waiting at the Ferry for a Passage to Long-Island, but being suspected and examined, Miss appeared to be no less than one of a different Sex, thus disguised, carrying a Letter directed to Hugh Wallace. Our Men were so uncivil as to march Madam through the Streets to the General, with her female Cloaths tied above her Knees, which discovered a Pair of Men's Breeches, &c.”
WILLIAMSBURG, July 27.
It is reported that Lord Dunmore's miscreants, since they were driven from Gwyn's Island, have received a severe drubbing on the Maryland shore of Potowmack, where they landed in hopes of procuring some necessaries, but were disappointed, and forced away, after losing ten or more privates of the 14th regiment, who were killed; that the shipping are gone up the river all in mourning, supposed for some of the leaders of the gang, or perhaps for the magnanimous chief himself. Two tenders it is said are burnt, and their crews taken, about 50 in number. Our galleys and other armed vessels will soon be ready to meet them.
PHILADELPHIA.
IN CONGRESS, July 22, 1776.
Resolved, That the several Commanders in Chief in each department be directed to exchange any officer in the British service, now a prisoner in any of these States, of or under the rank of Colonel for Col. Ethan Allen.
Resolved, That the persons taken prisoners with Col. Ethan Allen be put upon the same footing as those in the Continental service, and exchanged accordingly, as opportunity presents.
By order of Congress.
JOHN HANCOCK, President.
All the Printers are desired to publish the above order, for the benefit of Col. Allen, who has suffered much in the cause of his country.
Extract of a letter from Virginia, dated July 22, 1776.
“On Sunday last I was informed that Lord Dunmore was landing his troops on Thacker Washington's plantations, little below Hoo's ferry. About twelve o'clock the same night, the Major of the county came express, to let me know that the fleet was then at Marl-brough, a few miles above Boyd's-hole. The alarm was soon spread, and in a very little time the shores were covered with men. I went over early yesterday, and discovered four ships and three tenders. They appeared, as near as I can guess, to be somewhere about Dumfries. The remainder we supposed to be below, either coming up, or attempting to land. Some few of us then pu-

shed down the river, but found the militia dispersing just before we got to Boyd's-hole. They had received information that the balance of the fleet was at anchor near the mouth of the river. This morning early we returned up Potowmack river, and saw only three ships and two tenders, and hearing there distinctly, at the same time, a heavy cannonade at Alexandria, we concluded the other ship and tender had paid the town a visit, where they will certainly meet with a warm reception. As yet we have no account. I shall proceed to morrow morning up the river Potowmack, and continue there till the fleet goes down."
By another letter, it appears the houses of Mr. Brent, on Potowmack river of great value, had been burnt by Lord Dunmore, and that he was joined by many Negroes in Maryland.
N E W Y O R K, August 12.
The Lord Hyde Packet, Capt. Goddard, arrived at Staten-Island a few days ago from Falmouth, in 8 Weeks, and by two Gentlemen Passengers who were permitted to come from the Island, we were favoured with some English Prints from which we have taken the following Articles, viz.
His Majesty's most gracious SPEECH to both Houses of Parliament, on Tuesday May 23d, 1776.
My Lords, and Gentlemen,
T HE Conclusion of public Business and the advanced Season of the Year make it proper for me to give you some Receipts, but I cannot put an end to this Session, without assuring that the fresh Instances of your Attachment to me, and your ready Attention and Adherence to the true interest of your Country, which you have shown in the whole Course of your important Deliberations, afford me the highest Satisfaction.
No Alteration has happened in the State of foreign Affairs since your Meeting, and it is with Pleasure I inform you, that the Assurances which I have received of the dispositions of the several Powers in Europe, promise a Continuance of the general Tranquility.
Gentlemen of the House of Commons,
It was with real Regret and Concern, that I found myself under the Necessity of asking my faithful Commons any extraordinary Supplies: I thank you for the Readiness and Dispatch with which they have been granted, and they are the more acceptable to me, as you have shown in the Manner of raising them, an equal Regard to the exigencies of the Service, and the Ease of my People, and you may be assured the Confidence you repose in me, shall be used with proper Frugality and applied only to the Purposes for which it was intended.
My Lords and Gentlemen,
We are engaged, in a great national Cause, the Prosecution of which must inevitably be attended with many Difficulties, and much expence; but when we consider that the essential Rights, and interests of the whole Empire are deeply concerned in the Issue, of it, and can have no Safety or Security but in that constitutional Subordination for which we are contending, I am convinced that you will not think, any price too high for the Preservation of such Objects.
I will still entertain a Hope that my rebellious Subjects may be awakened by a Sense of their Duty, they will justify me in bringing about the favourite Wish of my Heart the Restoration of Harmony and the Re-establishment of Order and Happiness, in every Part of my Dominions; but if a due Submission should not be obtained, from such Motives, and such Dispositions on their Part, I trust I shall be able, under the Blessing of Providence, to effectuate it by a full exertion of the great Force with which you have entrusted me.
The Lord Chancellor, by his Majesty's Command said, it is his Majesty's Royal Will and Pleasure that this Parliament be prorogued to Thursday, the first Day of August next.
N E W - Y O R K, August 15.
On Monday last about sixty vessels came in and anchored at Staten-Island. They are supposed to be Dunmore's fleet from Virginia.
A gentleman just arrived from Ticonderoga, informs us, that General Burgoyne has endeavored to persuade some tribes of the Canadian Indians to join the British army, but they absolutely refused, and are determined not to take any part in the present unhappy dispute; that should a reconciliation between Great-Britain and America take place at any future period, they were certain of being the greatest sufferers, therefore chose to remain neuter.
Tuesday evening last, by express we were informed, that the Phoenix and Rose were on their way down the river, about five miles above fort Washington: seven galleys well manned, are gone to meet them. We hope our next will give a more full, and we hope
a more satisfactory account of those sturdy robbers.
A report was current yesterday that a French fleet had arrived at Quebec, and that several very important events had happened in Canada, but many improbabilities in the account, and later advices from the same place mentioning nothing of the matter, gives us reason to believe that the whole account is entirely without foundation.
An attack from the piratical fleet & murderous army of Great-Britain, is hourly expected here.
H A R T F O R D, Aug. 19.
The Hon. Continental Congress have promoted William Heath, Esq; Joseph Spencer, Esq; John Sullivan, Esq; and Nath. Green, Esq; late Brigadier Generals, to the rank of Major Generals in the army of the American States, and Colonels, James Reed, John Nixon, Arthur St. Clair, Alexander McDougall, Samuel Holden Parsons, and James Clinton, to be Brigadier Generals; and William Tudor, Esq; Judge Advocate, to the rank of Lieutenant Colonel in the army.
B O S T O N, Aug. 22.
By the Ticonderoga Post we have the following, viz. CHAMBLEE, Aug. 7, 1776.
Parole, St. Jerome—C. S. Paris.
H IS Excellency General Carlton orders the commanding officers of corps to take especial care every one under their command be informed that letters or messages from rebels, traitors in arms against their king, rioters, disturbers of the peace, plunderers, robbers, assassins or murderers, are on no account to be admitted; that should emissaries from such lawless men again presume to approach the army, whether under the name of flag of truce men, or ambassadors, except when they come to implore the king's mercy, their persons shall be immediately seized and committed to close confinement, in order to be proceeded against as the Law directs; their letters for whomsoever, even the commander in chief, are to be delivered to the provost martial, that unread, unopened, they may be burned by the common hangman—At the same time, the commander in chief expects that neither the assassination of Brigadier Gen. Gorden, nor the late notorious breach of faith in refusing not to return the troops and Canadians taken at St. John's in exchange for those rebels who fell into the hands of Savages at the Cedars, purchased from, at a great price, and restored to their country, on those express conditions, be imputed to the provincials at large, but to a few wicked and designing men, who first deceived them step by step, misled the credulous multitude to the brink of ruin, afterward usurped authority over them, established a despotic tyranny not to be borne, and now wantonly and foolishly endeavouring to provoke the spilling the blood of our unhappy countrymen of this Continent, in hopes of covering their own guilt, or confirming their tyranny, by the general destruction of their country: Let their crimes pursue these faithless bloody men, who assert that black is white, or white is black.
It belongs to Britons to distinguish themselves not less for their humanity than their valor; it belongs to the king's troops to save the blood of his deluded subjects, whose greatest fault perhaps has having been deceived by such men to their own destruction; it belongs to the crown, it is the duty of all faithful servants of the crown, to rescue from oppression, and restore to liberty, the once happy, free & loyal people of this continent.
All prisoners from the rebellious provinces that chuse to return home, are to hold themselves in readiness to embark at a short notice. The commissary Mr. Murray shall visit the transports destined for them, and see that wholesome provisions, necessary cloathing, with all possible convenience for their passage, be prepared for these unfortunate men. They are to look on their respective provinces as their prison, and there to remain until farther enlarged, or summoned to appear before the commander in chief of this province, or any other commander in chief for his Majesty, for the time being, which summons shall be obeyed.—General Howe will regulate the place of their landing.—N. B. If he is allowed the liberty.
Ticonderoga, August 12. The above is General Carleton's orders at Chamblee, which was sent us by Major Bigelow, who went with a flag and was detained twenty-four days. The above Brigadier General Gorden was killed within about 60 rods of the enemy's encampment.
On the 20th ult. a Battle was fought between the Militia of Pincastle, and some the Cherokee & Creek Indians, near the Great Island of Holstein, in which the Enemy had 13 killed and several wounded. We took a great Quantity of Plunder and many guns; and had only four Men wounded.
A Jamaica Guinea Ship, with 7 Hogheads of Sugar, 8 or 9 of Rum, and Seven Thousand Dollars, is taken by a Privateer from Maryland, and safe arrived in Port. Also, a New England Brig from Martinico.
Last Thursday, was sent into Marblehead, by the Franklin Vessel of War, Capt. Skimmer, and on Saturday last was conveyed round to this Harbour, a Brig from St. Augustine, bound for Bristol, with 3000 raw and half dressed Dear Skins, and about two Tons Indigo. There were on board said Brig, a Lieutenant, Sergeant and a Drummer of the 14th Regiment, going on the recruiting Service.
Extract of a Letter from New-York, August 15. There is a Report here:—it is more—it is brought by Express—that a French Fleet is arrived in the River St. Lawrence: am told some Affairists about it clash with one another; but the Story gains Credit; it is added that Carleton and Burgoyne had left their Conquests in Canada, with as much Preparation as we did ours, and had gone to take Care of Quebec. Colonel Trumbull has a Letter informing him our Affairs to the Northward are getting into a good Situation,—our Navy on a respectable Footing—going down the Lakes under the Command of General Arnold, with a Month's Provision,—Provisions plenty; fresh and good.—Defectors inform us that the Enemy have ordered 3 Day's Provisions to be cooked and we are in hourly Expectation of an Attack.—Last Sunday near a Thousand Riflemen arrived in Town. We have had frequent Reinforcements since, and more expected."
N E W B U R Y - P O R T, Aug. 23.
By a private letter from New-York, we are informed, that since the post left that place, the tents belonging to the British army on Staten Island, were all struck, that the ships were all in motion and appeared as though they intended to make up the North River.
Last week arrived here the Hancock Privateer Capt. Wingate Newman from Philadelphia, she brought in a prize with Rum, sugar, wines, &c.
P O R T S M O U T H, Aug. 24, 1776.
Capt. Francis Brown, who arrived here last Sunday, in 9 weeks from Amsterdam, laden with drugs, dry goods, spices, &c. &c. informs us he saw a fleet of about 30 sail (which he took to be Howe's) the 31st of May, in the English Channel—He could procure no public papers on any terms.
Last Tuesday the Nelly Frigate, of London Capt. Lyonel Bradstreet, commander, last from the Bay of Honduras, with 126,000 feet Mahogany, 40 tons Logwood, and a number fine Turtle, was sent into this Port, by the Hancock and Franklin Cruizers—She was taken in Latt. 38 00 N. Long. 65 06 W. out 10 Weeks.
We are desired to inform the Public, the Account in last Week's Boston Papers concerning the taking the Ship Reward (bro't into this Port) by Bratagem is a mistake; as she was chased from one o'Clock P. M. till 12 next Morning, when she struck to the Hancock Privateer.
We hear General Sullivan has appointed Edward Sherburne, Esq; of this town, one of his Aids de Camp.
George King
Has to sell a few hogheads of good West India rum.
S A M U E L B L U N T, The established Post to Crown-Point, hereby informs the Public, that he sets off again for the army at Ticonderoga, the seventh of September.—Those persons inclining to write, are desired to leave their letters at Capt. Jacob Tilton's innholder in Portsmouth, with one shilling postage, for each letter.
Clean Linnen R A G S
Taken in at the Printing-Office.

POET'S CORNER.
Mr. Printer, Please to accept the following lines for the Poet's corner, if you have nothing better.
WHEN Sol descends, what golden streaks arise, And tracks of glory paint the Western skies: This is the time when witty poets tell That Phœbus into Thetis' Bosom fell: She blush'd at first, and then put out the light, And drew the modest curtains of the night.
A Libel being filed before me against the ship named the Reward , burthen'd about two hundred tons, her cargo and appurtenances commanded by James Baillie,—which vessel is said to have been the property of some inhabitant or inhabitants of Great-Britain, or inhabitant or inhabitants of Tortola, subject or subjects of the King of Great-Britain, and taken & brought into the county of Rockingham.
This Notice is given agreeable to the laws of said colony, that the maritime court, erected to try and condemn all vessels found infesting the sea-coasts of America, & bro't into the county of Rockingham, will be held at the court-house in Portsmouth, on Thursday the 12th day of September next, at 10 o'clock forenoon, 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.
JOSHUA BRACKETT, Judge of said court. All claimants are by law to file their claims five days at least, before the sitting of said court.
Portsmouth Aug. 13, 1776. 13—15
STATE OF NEW-HAMPSHIRE.
PUBLICK Notice is hereby given to the several constables, whose names are returned and also to the select-men to whom warrants were issued for a colony Tax: bearing date September 1775. who have not returned the name of the constables nor paid said sum; that unless they and each of them speedily pay into the Treasury the sums contained in their respective warrants: Extents will issue against them. —Also the former constables and select men as aforesaid who are delinquent in paying the Colony Tax to the honourable George Jaffery Esq; late Treasurer, are hereby notified that unless they immediately pay their respective sums contained in his warrant into the hand of me the subscriber (who am authorized to receive the same) Extents will issue against each of them.
By Order of the Committee of Safety. NICH. GILMAN, Treasurer.
Exeter Aug. 8. 1776. 13—15
As there are some of the Inhabitants of this Town, who have not paid their Taxes for the last year, the Selectmen are constrained, to give them this public notice, that unless they pay the same to the respective Collectors, they shall be under the very disagreeable necessity, of publishing their Names in this Paper, as unfriendly to their Country, supposing that no man who really wishes it well, can object to the payment of his just Proportion of the Public expence.—If any are over rated, the Selectmen are ready on application to them, to make any reasonable Abatements.
Portsmouth August 16 1776 13—15
Five Dollars Reward.
RAN away from the Subscriber, about the 1st inst. a Negro-Man named Newport , between 30 and 40 years of age, speaks good English, 5 feet 7 inches high, carried with him a Round, homespun Jackett, Leather Breeches, long Trowsers, check'd homespun Shirts, &c. Whoever will convey said Negro to me, or confine him in any Goal in this State, so that I may have him again, shall have Five Dollars Reward, and all necessary charges paid by Tilly Haggens. Be wick August 15, 1776. 13—16
West-India Rum,
By the hogshead or barrel,—to be sold by BENJAMIN AUSTIN. 12—14
GEORGE WENTWORTH
Proposes, if a suitable encouragement is given, to open a PUBLIC VENDUE, once a fortnight or month, as it may be most convenient to his employers, at the house that was lately improved as a custom-house in this town. Therefore any persons that may incline, to put any kind of goods whatever, into his hands, may rely on his endeavors and integrity in making the most of them, and such persons who should not like to have themselves or goods known, may depend on the strictest secrecy.
Portsmouth, Aug. 16, 1776. 13—15
Rum by the hh'd or barrel,
SUGAR by the barrel or hundred,—to be sold by KEITH SPENCE,—at the store lately improv'd by George Craigie, in pav'd Street. 12—14
Cash given for Old Pewter,
by JOHN GOOCH, at the sign of the Plates, in King-Street, or one pound of new Pewter for two pound of old. 13—15
State of New-Hampshire.
In Committee of Safety, August 7, 1776.
THE Committee request the select-men and committee of safety, of the several towns in this state, to immediately make return of the association papers sent them, to be signed by the inhabitants of their respective towns; together with the names of such who are delinquent; in order that the measures recommended by the Continental Congress may be carried into execution.
By order of the Committee.
M. WEARE, Chairman. 12—14
Colony of New-Hampshire,
In Committee of Safety, July 25th, 1776.
WHEREAS frequent Complaints are daily making to this Committee by Persons employed in transporting warlike Stores, and other Necessaries to the Frontiers of the Colony, of the Negligence of the Inhabitants and Proprietors of sundry Inland Towns and Places, respecting the clearing up, and mending the High Ways, and Bridges in their several Towns and Places, particularly the Road from Dover to Cohas by Conway.
The COMMITTEE do seriously recommend to said Inhabitants, and Owners of Land that they speedily take particular Care to see that the Ways and Bridges in the several Towns, are kept in such Repair, as may be sufficient for Carriages, &c. to pass and repass. Otherwise the Legislative Authority will be obliged to employ Persons to perform the Business, and charge the same, on the Lands the Road goes through.
12—14 By Order of the Committee. M. THORNTON, Chairman, P. T.
Colony of New-Hampshire.
In Committee of Safety, July 25th, 1776.
THE Committee being greatly alarmed at the Conduct of many Persons in this Colony, who taking the Advantage of the public Calamities, and great Scarcity of many of the Necessaries of Life, have demanded, exacted & taken exorbitant Prices for such Articles, and thereby greatly distressed the Poor, are of Opinion that such Proceedings have a great Tendency to break that Band of Union so much sought for, and desired at this critical Time by all good Men. Therefore strongly urge and recommend to all Persons as they esteem the Welfare of their much distressed Country, that none will be so lost to all Sense of Honour and Virtue, to continue or make use of so pernicious a practice, and by their Avarice ruin the Land, as no real Friends to their Country and the Rights thereof now contending for, can ever be guilty of Actions so destructive and ruinous thereto.
By Order of the Committee.
M. THORNTON, Chairman, P. T. 12—14
A VENDUE ROOM,
Adjoining the Printing-Office, will soon be opened, for the Sale of any Kind of Household Furniture, Merchandize, &c.
Portsmouth, July 31, 1776.
Colony of New-Hampshire, Rockingham ss.
AT a meeting of the freeholders and others, inhabitants of said Portsmouth, pr. adjournment, among other things Voted . —That the representatives of this town at the General-Assembly be instructed for the following purposes, viz.
1. That they do their utmost endeavour to procure the enactment of a law, that from and after the dissolution of this present Assembly,, that no member of any future Assembly hold any other place in government, than his seat in said Assembly, and that when any such shall be chosen, and accept of a place his seat shall become vacant, and a new writ issue to his constituents for a new choice.
2. That they do not consent that any person should hold more than one place in government at a time.
3. That they do in the most effectual manner secure to the people of this State their inherent right of being judg'd and governed in the least prejudicial manner.
4. That they nor any other representative in future shall consent to any alteration, innovation or abridgment of the constitutional form that may be adopted, without first consulting their constituents in a matter of so much importance to their safety.
a true copy, 12—14
Attest,
JOHN PENHALLOW, Town-Clerk.
PUBLIC AUCTION.
To be sold at public Auction, on the 28th inst. at 10 o'clock before noon, at the wharfe of Messieurs Daniel and Samuel Sherburne, the Ship Susannah , burthen about 240 tons, with her appurtenances; also the cargo of said ship, consisting of Porter in butts, Sour Krout, a few chaldrons of Smiths-Coals, sacks of Hair for mattresses, Beans and Bean-Meal, in bags, and a few other small articles.
Also to be sold on the 30th inst. the Schooner Rainbow , burthen about 40 tons with her appurtenances, at Capt. George Wentworth's wharfe.—The said vessels and cargo, having been decreed forfeited to the United Colonies and Captors, by the court maritime for the state of New-Hampshire.
JOSHUA WENTWORTH Agent.
Portsmouth Aug. 8, 1776. 12—14
WILLIAM PEARNE,
Has to sell at his store in Portsmouth, a small quantity of West-India and New-England Rum, Molasses, Coffee, Chocolate, and good Brown Sugar, Rice, Ship-Bread & Allspice. Also, a few European Goods, viz. Looking-Glasses of various prices; some cutlery and Hosiery Ware, Chest and Box-Loks, Felt Hatts, Dutch Caps, Paper, Japan'd Ware, Pins, &c. &c.
He has also still left to sell, a few Casks of Maderia Wine; and some very good Old Spirits. 12—14
A FEW GALLONS OF WEST-INDIA RUM,
TO BE SOLD by STEPHEN MEEDS, at six shillings lawful money by the single gallon, if applied for soon. 13—15
Good Sheeps Wool
To be sold by JOHN FIELD, in Bradford, opposite the upper Ferry.
August 16 1776. 13 15
TO BE SOLD
West-India Rum, and Philadelphia FLOUR, at a store upon the Long-Wharfe, if apply'd for soon.
Enquire of Mr. John Beck. 12—14
PORTSMOUTH: Printed by BENJAMIN DEARBORN, near the Parade, where this Paper may be had at Eight Shillings L. M. per year, one half at entrance. The Printing-Business, in it's different branches carried on with care and fidelity.