New-Hampshire gazette, or, State journal and general advertiser (Portsmouth, N.H.), 1779-08-17 00:00:00

To the Freeholders of New-Hampshire.
W ELL! my Countrymen, I sincerely congratulate you on the happy issue of the important Business which has been so long in hand. Your Convention has been sitting and rising by turns for a year past; and after various modifications, emendations, expurgations, and repurgations, have at length sent forth to view a Constitution, which, for brevity, tenacity, congruity, perspicuity & comprehensibility, exceeds all the boasted constitutions of ancient or modern Republics. Solon and Lycurgus would blush, Pym & Hampden and the rest of that illustrious band of Patriots, who composed the Long Parliament, yea, the ancient Barons who forced Magna Charta from King John , would "hide their diminished heads" for Shame, if they did but know how they have been outdone by the Sages of Concord. In the Declaration of Rights, you are told, with an air of dignity, that you "are entitled to Life, Liberty and Property" — a most admirable discovery this! worthy to be recorded in Letters of Gold. These are blessings, my countrymen, which you perhaps are a little sensible of, because you enjoy them in common with Birds, Beasts, and Fishes — But mark how comprehensive are the Terms — and you will see how valuable are these enjoyments: — If you are entitled to Life, you are certainly entitled to the means of Life, else what will Life avail? you have a right to eat, drink, and sleep, and perform all the other bodily functions, which are necessary to preserve Life — you have a right to marry and beget Children, which is the legal way to perpetuate Life. If you are entitled to Liberty, you have a right to stand, sit, walk, ride, swim or sail at your pleasure — you have a right to hunt, shoot and fish, to speak, read and write, and teach your children to do the same. If you are entitled to Property, you have a right to buy, sell, or swap.
You are also told in the declaration, that you have a right to the Common Law of England, which comprehends the Wisdom of every Age, improving on the preceding. 'Tis the reason of mankind, and wisest of mankind too, the Sages of the Law, who on the most thorough knowledge and mature deliberation, have determined according to Conscience, Reason and Truth. This common Law which is justly esteemed the Birth right of Englishmen, and which your ancestors were proud of, you are declared to be possessed of as one of your "Rights, but with this superior advantage viz. to "be repealed or altered by a future Legislature."
This future Legislature must therefore be men of Wisdom & Learning superior to all the sages of Westminster Hall; & who can doubt this when your Constitution expressly provides that they shall be qualified by an Estate of £300 Silver Money? what greater qualification can be desired to entitle a Man to a seat in that Legislature, which is to repeal and alter the Common Law? This no doubt is one thing meant by an expression in the 2d Article of the declaration, viz. that you are entitled to "all the Privileges and Immunities which you heretofore enjoyed." For you well remember the time when you had Silver money, Governors, Counsellors, Judges & Justices, Colonels, Majors, & what not? When silver money was tho' the sole qualification for the most important Offices in the State, and sufficient to supply the place of Virtue, Wisdom, and Learning. This privilege you are not deprived of, but is rather confirmed to you by this noble declaration. — Another Privilege, which you "heretofore enjoyed" and which is still continued by your new Constitution, is the dependency of your Judges upon the General Court, both for their Existence and their "suitable Compensation," which may be increased, decreased or withheld at the Pleasure of that supreme Body.
This is a privilege much superior to what the Britons boast of, whose Judges are independent, & hold their Office during good Behaviour; for in that Case it is in the Power of a Judge merely by behaving well to hold his place, and his pay as long as he pleases, to the exclusion of all other Persons however well qualified. Whereas in our Constitution it is in the power of any person, by procuring a Majority in the General Court, to get a seat for himself or his friend on the Bench, or turn off a Judge who has displeased him, or get his Salary curtailed; or what is yet a greater Privilege, by keeping your Judges needy and dependent,
it will be in your power to bribe them, i.e. (according to Gov. Johnstone's exposition) to make it their Interest to do right. I do not say this is a privilege you heretofore enjoyed, but if it is, you are in a fair way to retain it.
There is another Privilege in this Constitution which you have not heretofore enjoyed, I mean the Privilege of being out voted by Persons of no property in the Choice of your Representatives. Formerly this Privilege was confined to Freeholders, or persons of some visible Estate, because it was thought that they constituted the strength of the Community; but now all "male Inhabitants, paying Taxes and professing the Protestant Religion, are legal Voters in choosing Counsellors and Representatives": How it is to be determined whether the Voters are Males, the Constitution does not point out; but every transient Person who is here to day and gone to morrow has, according to this Law of Equality, the same right to say who shall vote away your Money as you yourselves who must abide by the decision; when they may be gone to another Part of the world where they will be as much at home as they were here. A junto of Scotch or Irish Pedlars (I had like to have added French, but I recollected that it was agreeable to the Genius of that Nation, never to meddle with the Politicks of their neighbours) may now out vote the unsusppecting Freeholders in the Choice of their Representatives, and tho' one half of them should be Papists, yet if they have ever attended Worship in your Congregations you will be obliged in Charity to judge them professors of the Protestant Religion.
Some men who would fain have been deemed wise, have imagined that the safety of a State consisted in its being governed by Laws and not by Men. But your Constitution-Mongers have with superior Wisdom, vested the supreme Power of the State in a set of Men, who are to give Law to Law itself, who are to controul, alter and repeal the Common and Statute Laws of England, and the ancient Laws of this State, and even to propose Alterations in the Constitution itself, which "being agreed to by a Majority of the People shall become valid". It would have been quite impertinent to have pointed out any way in which the sense of the "Majority of the people" should be collected, because the people must meet by Representatives, and if a Convention should be called on purpose, it would be very troublesome and chargeable, besides it is most likely that the same Persons would be chosen who were members of Court. For these reasons, the shortest Cut will be for the General Court to act in the name and behalf of the people as well in "agreeing to" the alterations as in "proposing" them, and thus they will be a complete British Parliament, exercising their constitutional Omnipotence in making, and unmaking Laws, ripping and mending the Constitution at their pleasure; and if like that venerable body they should think themselves the best Men in the State; and vote to sit seven years instead of one, it will be such an alteration only as they have a right to "propose" and "agree to", and we should then experience the same blessings under their long protracted Administration, as Britons do at this day from their septennial Parliament.
There is one thing in the Constitution which some very short sighted people have imagined to be a defect. They observe a supreme Legislature, but, they ask where is the supreme Executive power! They doubt not but that while the General Court sits, things will be carried on right both in point of Legislation and Legis execution but they wonder who is to have the supreme Executive power in the Recess of the Court: Yet if these people would but put on their spectacles they would see enough in the 21st Article to supply this defect. There the President is to "call the Council together when occasion shall require", of which Occasion he alone is to judge. And with 3 of the Council he is "to call the General Court if need be" of which need, the President and three Counsellors are to judge. From whence it must follow, that so long as the President, and three of the Council can agree how to carry on Executive power without the General Court, they will judge there is no need to call them together. And if the President should judge there is no occasion of calling the council together, he will be the sole and supreme Executive Officer himself. This I take to be the plain English of that article; and so my worthy Countrymen, I heartily wish you joy; — You have got a King and a Cabinet Council, & a General Court invested with the Omnipotence of the British Parliament; which, in the present State of it, is universally admired as the
best Constitution in the world. Nothing now remains to compleat your Happiness but to make provision for a Prime minister, who shall rule both King and Parliament; The omission of such an essential Branch of Government is indeed a capital defect in the constitution, which I hope you will inst. uct. your Delegates to remedy when they meet again in September to put the finishing stroke to this Admirable Plan.
PHILOTEKNON.
PHILADELPHIA, July 26.
On Sunday last, the 4th of July, being the anniversary of the day which gave freedom to the vast republic of America, the Congress, the President and Council of the State, with other the civil and military officers, and a number of principal gentlemen and ladies, at 12 o'clock attended at the Roman chapel, agreeable to invitation received from the Minister Plenipotentiary of his Most Christian Majesty. A Te Deum was performed on the occasion, to the great satisfaction of all present. And his Excellency's chaplain delivered a short and elegant address to his audience, of which we have been favoured with the following copy:
GENTLEMEN, We are assembled to celebrate the anniversary of that day which Providence had marked in his eternal decrees, to become the epocha of liberty and Independence to the Thirteen United States of America. That Being, whose Almighty hand holds all existence beneath its dominion, undoubtedly produces in the depth of his wisdom those great events which astonish the Universe, and of which the most presumptuous, though instrumental, in accomplishing them, dare not attribute to themselves the merit. But the finger of God is still more peculiarly evident in that happy, that glorious revolution, which calls forth this days felicity. He hath struck the oppressors of a people free and peaceable with that spirit of delusion which renders the wicked artificers of their own proper misfortunes. Permit me, my dear brethren, citizens of the United States, to address you on this occasion. It is that God, that all-powerful God, who hath directed your steps, when you knew not where to apply for council; who, when you were without arms, sought for you with the sword of eternal justice; who, when you were in adversity, poured into your hearts the spirit of courage, of wisdom and fortitude, and who hath at length raised up for your support, a youthful sovereign, whose virtues bless and adorn a sensible, a faithful and a generous nation. This nation has blended her interests with your interests, and her sentiments with yours. She participates in all your joys, and this day, unites her voice to yours at the foot of the altars of the eternal God to celebrate that glorious revolution, which has placed the sons of America among the Free and Independent nations of the earth.
"We have nothing now to apprehend but the anger of Heaven, or that the measure of our guilt should exceed the measure of his mercy. Let us then prostrate ourselves at the feet of the immortal God, who holds the fate of empires in his hands, and raises them up at his pleasure, or breaks them down to dust. Let us conjure him to enlighten our enemies, and to dispose their hearts to enjoy that tranquillity and happiness which the revolution we now celebrate has established for a great part of the human race. Let us implore him to conduct us by that way which his Providence has marked out, for arriving at so desirable an end. Let us offer him hearts imbued with sentiments of respect, consecrated by religion; by humanity and patriotism. Never is the august ministry of his altars more acceptable to his divine Majesty, than when it lays at his feet, homage, offerings and vows so pure, so worthy the common parent of mankind. God will not reject our joy, for he is the author of it, nor will he reject our prayers, for they ask but the full accomplishment of the decrees he hath manifested. Filled with his spirit, let us in concert with each other, raise our hearts to the Eternal; let us implore his infinite mercy to be pleased to inspire the rulers of both nations with the wisdom and force necessary to perfect what it hath begun. Let us in a word unite our voices, to beseech him to dispense his blessing upon the counsels and the armies of the allies, that we may soon enjoy the sweets of a peace, which will cement the union, and establish the prosperity of the two empires. It is with this view that we shall cause that Canticle to be performed, which the custom of the catholic church both consecrated, to be at once a testimonial of public joy, a thanksgiving for benefits received from Heaven, & a prayer for the continuance of its mercies.

PHILADELPHIA, July 27. Head Quarters New Windsor, July 21, 1779. SIR,
On the 16th instant I had the honor to inform Congress of a successful attack on the enemy's post at Stony Point, on the preceding night by Brigadier Gen. Wayne, and the corps of light infantry under his command—The ulterior operations in which we have been engaged, have hitherto put it out of my power to transmit the particulars of this interesting event. They will now be found in the inclosed report which I have received from Gen. Wayne. To the encomiums he has deservedly bestowed on the officers and men under his command, it gives me pleasure to add, that his own conduct throughout the whole of this arduous enterprize merits the warmest approbation of Congress. He improved upon the plan recommended by me, and executed it in a manner that does signal honor to his judgment and to his bravery. In a critical moment of the assault, he received a flesh wound in the head with a musket ball, but continued leading on his men with unhaken firmness.
I now beg leave for the private satisfaction of Congress, to explain the motives which induced me to direct the attempt.—
It has been the unanimous sentiment to evacuate the captured post at Stony Point, remove the cannon and stores, and destroy the works, which was accomplished on the night of the 18th, one piece of heavy cannon only excepted. For want of proper tackling within reach to transport the cannon, by land, we were obliged to send them to the fort by water. The movement of the enemy's vessels created some uneasiness on their account, and induced me to keep one of the pieces for their protection, which finally could not be brought off, without risking more for its preservation than it was worth. We also lost a galley, which was ordered down to cover the boats. She got under way on her return the afternoon of the 18th. The enemy began a severe and continued cannonade upon her, from which having received some injury, which disabled her for proceeding, she was run ashore. Not being able to get her afloat, till late in the flood tide, one or two of the enemy's vessels under favour of the night, having passed above her, she was set on fire and blown up. It is probable Congress will be pleased to bestow some marks of consideration upon those officers, who distinguished themselves upon this occasion. Every officer and man of the corps deserves great credit, but there were particular ones whose situation placed them foremost in danger, and made their conduct most conspicuous. Lieut. Col. Fleury and Major Steward commanded the two attacks. Lt. Gibbons and Knox commanded the advanced parties or forlorn hopes, and all acquitted themselves as well as it was possible. These officers have a claim to be more particularly noticed.
Mr. Archer, who will have the honor of delivering these dispatches, is a volunteer, Aid to Gen. Wayne, and a gentleman of merit,—His zeal, activity and spirit are conspicuous upon every occasion. I have the honour to be, With the greatest respect and Esteem, your Excellency's most obedient Servant, G. WASHINGTON.
I forgot to mention, that two flags and 2 standards were taken, the former belonging to the garrison, and the latter to the 17th regiment.—These shall be sent to Congress by the first convenient opportunity.
SIR, Stony Point, July 17, 1779.
I have the honour of giving you a full & particular relation of the reduction of this point, by the light infantry under my command.
“On the 15th instant at twelve o'clock we took up our line of march from Sandy beach, distant 14 miles from this place; the roads being exceedingly bad & narrow, and having to pass over high mountains thro' deep morasses, and difficult defile, we were obliged to move in single files the greatest part of the way. At 8 o'clock in the evening the van arrived at Mt. Springfield's, within one and an half miles of the enemy, and formed into columns as fast as the
came up, agreeable to the order of battle annexed; Colonels Febiger's and Meigs's regiments, with Major Hull's detachment, formed the right column; Col. Butler's regiment and Major Murtree's two companies, the left. The troops remained in this position until several of the principal officers, with myself, had returned from reconnoitring the works.—Half after 11 o'clock, being the hour fixed on, the whole moved forward the van of the right consisted of one hundred and fifty volunteers, properly officered, who advanced with unloaded muskets and fixed bayonets, under the command of Lieut. Col. Fleury: these were preceded by 20 picked men, and a vigilant brave officer to remove the abatis and other obstructions. The van of the left consisted of one hundred volunteers under the command of Major Steward, with unloaded muskets and fixed bayonets also preceded by a brave and determined officer, with twenty men, for the same purpose as the other.
“At twelve o'clock the assault was to begin on the right and left flanks of the enemy's works, whilst Major Murtree amused them in the front; but a deep morass covering their whole front, and at this time being overflowed by the tide, together with other obstructions, rendered the approaches more difficult than were at first apprehended, so that it was about twenty minutes after twelve before the assault began, previous to which I placed myself at the head of Febiger's regiment or right column, and gave the troops the most pointed orders not to fire on any account, but place their whole dependence on the bayonet, which order was literally and faithfully obeyed—Neither the deep morass, the formidable & double rows of abatis, or the strong work in front and flank, could damp the ardour of the troops who in the face of a most tremendous & incessant fire of musketry, & from cannon loaded with grape shot, forced their way, at the point of the bayonet, through every obstacle, both columns meeting in the center of the enemy's work's nearly at the same instant. Two much praise cannot be given to Lieut. Col. Fleury, who struck the enemy's standard with his own hand, & Major Steward, who commanded the advanced parties, for their brave and prudent conduct.
Colonels Butler, Meigs, and Febiger, conducted themselves with that coolness, bravery and perseverance, that will ever insure success. Lieut. Col. Hay was wounded in the thigh, bravely fighting at the head of his battalion. I should take up too much of your Excellency's time, was I to particularize every individual who deserves it, for his bravery on this occasion. I cannot however, omit Major Lee, to whom I am in debt for frequent & very useful intelligence, which contributed much to the success of the enterprize, & it is with the greatest pleasure I acknowledge to you, I was supported in the attack by all the officers and soldiers under my command, to the utmost of my wishes. The officers and privates of the artillery exerted themselves in turning the cannon against Verplank's Point, and forced them to cut the cables of their shipping, & run down the river.
“I should be wanting in gratitude, was I to omit mentioning Capt. Fishbourn and Mr. Archer, my two Aids. de camp, who on my occasion shewed the greatest intrepidity, and supported me into the works after I received my wound after passing the last abatis.
“Inclosed are the returns of the killed & wounded of the light infantry, as also of the enemy, together with the number of the prisoners taken, likewise of the ordinance and stores found in the garrison.
“I forgot to inform your Excellency that previous to my marching: I had drawn Gen. Mullenburg into my rear, who with 300 men of his brigade took post on the opposite side of the marsh, so as to be in readiness either to support me, or to cover a retreat in case of accident, and I have no doubt of his faithfully & effectually executing either had there been any occasion for him.
“The Humanity of our brave soldiery, scorned to take the lives of a vanquished foe calling for mercy, reflects the highest honour on them, and accounts for the few of the
enemy killed on the occasion.
“I am not satisfied with the manner in which I have mentioned the conduct of Lts. Gibbons and Knox, the two gentlemen who led the advanced parties of twenty men each—their distinguished bravery deserves the highest commendation—the first belongs to the sixth Pennsylvania regiment, and lost 17 men killed and wounded in the attack: the last belongs to the ninth ditto, who was more fortunate in saving his men, though not less exposed.
I have the honour to be, with great respect, Your Excellency's most obedient humble servant,
Gen. Washington, ANTHONY WAYNE.”
“As we have not Room for the Particulars, and the Names of the kill'd and wounded, shall insert only the following Paragraph, viz.
The return of the prisoners taken at Stony Point Fort, we learn, are as follows, viz, 466 privates, 23 officers, and 43 wound sent in to the enemy to be exchanged. Total 532. The killed is supposed to be, between 30 & 40
IN CONGRESS, July 26, 1779.
Resolved unanimously, That the thanks of Congress be given to his Excellency Gen. Washington, for the vigilance, wisdom and magnanimity, with which he hath conducted the military operations of these States, and which are among many other signal instances, manifested in his orders for the late glorious enterprize, and successful attack, on the enemy's fortress on the banks of Hudson's river:
That the thanks of Congress be presented to Brigadier General Wayne, for his brave, prudent, and soldierly conduct, in the spirited and well-conducted attack of Stony-Point:
That Congress entertain a proper sense of the good conduct of the officers and soldiers under the command of Brigadier General Wayne, in the assault of the enemy's works at Stony-Point, and highly commend the coolness, discipline and firm intrepidity exhibited on the occasion:
That Lieut. Col. Fleury and Maj. Steward, who by their situation in leading the two attacks, had a more immediate opportunity of distinguishing themselves, have by their personal achievements exhibited a bright example to their brother soldiers, and merit in a particular manner the approbation and acknowledgment of the United States:
That Congress warmly approve and applaud the cool determined spirit with which Lieutenant Gibbons and Lieut. Knox led on the forlorn hope, braving danger and death in the cause of their country:
That a Medal, emblematical of this action, be struck: That one of gold be presented to Brigadier General Wayne, and a silver one to Lt. Col. Fleury and Major Steward respectively:
That Brevets of Captain be given to Lieut. Gibbons and Lieut. Knox:
That the Brevet of Captain be given to Mr. Archer, the bearer of the General's letter, and Volunteer Aid to Brigadier General Wayne:
That Congress approve the premises of reward made by Brigadier General Wayne, with the concurrence of the Commander in Chief, to the troops under his command:
That the value of the military stores taken at Stony Point be ascertained, and divided among the gallant troops by whom it was reduced, in such manner and proportion as the Commander in Chief shall prescribe.
Extract from the Minutes, CHARLES THOMPSON, Sec. PHILADELPHIA, August 3.
Friday last arrived here, from St. Eustatia the brigantines Active, Industry and Convention, with the Schooner Speedwell and Sloop Mars—all loaded with rum and sugar.
And on Monday arrived the Schooner Swan, Capt. Robinson, in 18 days from Martinique.—The same day was sent here, by the Boston frigate, a privateer Schooner, from New York.
Letters by Capt. Robinson advise, that the squadron under M. de la Mothe Piquet, sailed from Port Royal, (Island of Martinique) the 30th June, having on board 2500 land forces, in order to attack the Island of Grenada. These letters further mention, that the Governor and garrison of that Island, capitulated the 4th July: That Admiral Byron was returned from St. Kitts, and on the 2d, took General Grant, with 3 or 4000 land forces, in 37 transports, with which he proceeded to defend or retake the Island of St. Vincent: he anchored the next day off that Is-

land, where hearing that the Count d'Estaing had sailed for the Grenada; the next day he weighed anchor and pursued them, and having landed his forces at the Gouyave, he offered battle to the French fleet; in the mean while General Grant having made three attacks on the French troops was as often repulsed with loss. The Count found means to detach five ships of inferior force; blocked up the transport ships, & proceeded in order to give battle with the remainder of his fleet, which was equal in number to the 20 ships under Admiral Byron's command, but rather inferior in the number of guns. The shock was violent and bloody. The Count's ship in particular suffered more than any one of the others, but kept his wind, as the English ships were obliged to retire five miles to leeward, none doubts but the French flags rides triumphant in these seas; it was reported that Admiral Byron had lost five of his ships, but as this is not accounted for, it cannot be credited till confirmed by more authentic accounts.
Extract of a letter from Martinique, dated June 26, 1779.
"We have late news from Europe, that all the northern powers are united to insure our independence, and that the King of Prussia has entered into the confederacy as Mediator between France and England. He will support his arguments by 130,000 troops, that he can bring into the field, which I imagine will render them irresistible. The operations in these seas begin to wear a promising aspect. St. Vincents is taken by a detachment of Count d'Estaing's squadron; he has lately received an accession of naval strength, by the arrival of five ships of the line from France, commanded by Mons. de la Motte Piquet. A few days ago he failed on an expedition to Grenada, which I am confident by this time has capitulated.
"Admiral Byron, returning from a cruise, was much surprised to hear of the capture of St. Vincent, and failed from St. Lucia yesterday morning with 2000 troops, in order to attack it; he is intirely ignorant of the expedition formed for the reduction of Grenada."
Extract of a letter from the same place, dated July 3.
"It seems positive that all the powers of Europe have conspired to establish our independence. Nothing but our own misconduct can counteract their good intentions. By the interference of Russia and France, peace is restored to the Emperor and King of Prussia. By the mediatory influence of the Court of Versailles, the difference that consisted between Russia and the Porte, are finally settled, and satisfactorily adjusted. A spirit of true philosophy seems to have introduced itself at Courts, which inclines Princes to prefer the happiness of their subjects, by consulting their peace and tranquility, to the splendid prospects of military fame. The King of Prussia, that scourge of nations, whose aspiring views, have spread depopulation and distress thro' out an empire, seems to have awoke from the illusive dreams of ambition, and wishes to atone for the miseries he has caused to mankind. He is now an Advocate for universal peace, and has entered conjointly with Spain into the mediation of the disputes between Great-Britain, France and America."
FISH KILL August 5.
We learn, that on some day last week, about sixty of Colonel Moyland and Sheldon's light horse, fell in with about two hundred of the enemy's cavalry, took 20 of them, and killed a few: Our horses being fatigued delayed their march until the enemy who lay a few miles off came up in force and recovered seventeen of the prisoners—Our people brought off three of them with very little loss.
HARTFORD, August 10.
It is reported that 15 or 20 houses have been burnt in Mansfink settlements, and several people killed and carried off with considerable plunder: That the militia from Goshen and parts adjacent, having precipitately pursued the enemy, without sufficient caution and necessaries, were surprised, defeated, and many of them killed or carried off; among whom were several very valuable men, particularly Col. Tuden, jun. and Capt. Wood, and that while some of the militia behaved
with the utmost bravery, by the cowardice of others, they fell a prey to the enemy.
NEW-HAVEN, August 4.
Our last accounts are, that the whole of the British army have drawn themselves within King's Bridge, taking with them all the cattle &c, they have collected. And it is said they are embarking troops at New York, they give out are destined for the Southward.
PROVIDENCE, August 7.
In our last we mentioned the Arrival of a Prize Schooner from Georgia at a neighbouring Port: We since learn, that she sailed the 16th of July, and brings a Confirmation of the Enemy's Army leaving South Carolina, and arriving at Savannah, in Georgia. They were much reduced by Sickness, and had drawn most of the Seamen from their Shipping, being apprehensive of an Attack from General Lincoln. Sir James Wallace, in the Experiment of 50 Guns, had arrived there from England; a great Number of Letters brought by him were put on board the Prize, but thrown over before she struck. Sir James, three days before his Arrival, was separated from a Fleet bound to New York. Remained at Savannah, the Experiment, and four Frigates.
BOSTON, August 12.
Yesterday arrived here, Capt. Leatham, in the continental sloop Molly, in 7 days from Philadelphia, who informs, that on his passage he spoke with a letter of marque brig, and a sloop from St. Eustatia, 10 days out, who assured him that Count D'Estaing had totally defeated Admiral Byron, and had taken the Island of Grenada.
By a gentleman who left England in March last, we are informed that at that time there appeared no disposition for peace in the government part of that nation. All the partisans for Administration that he met with, most confidently insisted upon it that no pacification would take place respecting America, upon the basis of her independence. This, they said, must be renounced, or the war would be carried on as long as Britain could find men and money to support it. The French insured their ships in England at an high premium; much higher than what was demanded for British vessels; and the captures made from the French, fell chiefly upon the insurers in England. We have it through the same channel, that there were 15,000 British seamen prisoners in France, there being no cartel settled between that country and Britain; but American prisoners were exchanged.
We learn that the gallant Capt. Welsh, of the Marines, was lately slain in one of the conflicts at Majorbaggaduce: He is universally and deservedly regretted by all, and it may be justly added, he is an irreparable loss to this country. He was an Irish Gentleman of the best, and came to this country hereby to enter into its service, and his conduct while in it, has been very unexceptionable.
The bravery of our troops in gaining the heights at Majorbaggaduce defended by British veterans, was such, that had Wolfe seen it, he had felt the keenest envy. Amongst the heroes who fell in the attack, was Mr. Francis Davis, son of Mr. William Davis, of this town, merchant. The intrepidity of this young gentleman at the time, was more conspicuous, if possible, than his cool conduct and personal bravery in the action at Newport, the 30th of August, 1778.
Extract of a Letter from the Hon. Brigadier General Lovel, to the honorable Jeremiah Powell, Esq; President of the honorable Council of this State, dated, Majorbaggaduce, July 28, 1779.
SIR,
"The army under my command having arrived in Penobscot River on the 25th instant—I the same evening attempted to make a lodgment on Majorbaggaduce, but the wind springing up very strong, I was obliged to desist, lest the first division might suffer before they could be supported by the second.
On the 25th, I took possession with the marines, supported by General Wadsworth's division, of an island in the harbour, beat them off, took 4 pieces of artillery and some ammunition. The worthy Major Littlefield, with 2 men were drowned, by the sinking of a boat, by a chance shot from the enemy.
The 27th. We erected a battery on the island, planted 2 18 pounders, 1 12 and 1 howitzer.
This morning I have made my landing good on the S.W. head of a Peninsula, which is 100 feet high, and almost perpendicular, very thickly covered with bush and trees. The men ascended the precipice with alacrity, and after a very smart conflict, we put them to the rout—they lost in the woods a number killed and wounded; and we took a few prisoners—our loss is about 30 killed and wounded—we are within 100 rods of the enemies main fort, on a commanding piece of ground—I hope soon to have the satisfaction of informing you of the capture of the whole army—you will excuse my not being more particular, as you may judge my situation.
Mr. FOWLE,
I find in your last Paper a Piece of Mr. Meed's, wherein he says, he observed in your last Paper a scandalous Piece sign'd John Pickering, the Meaning of which, he says he was, and is still at a loss for, yet undertakes to answer it—therefore you will please to insert the following in your next Paper, which may give the Public a clearer View of the Affair.
Account of what Monies Capt. Pickering received in France, viz.
For a Bill of Exchange sold Monsieur Riou, on the State of South-Carolina, for 26 Shares for himself and others, in the first Prize, at £ 33 Sterling, is
Cash received for himself & others on Account of the Prize Brig Harmony exclusive of some Moneys lent, & Credit per Note and Accounts per Book
Livers 320 32
Account of what the Goods cost that has come to Hand, said to belong to said Pickering
To Capt. Follet 1 Chest Tea 682 10
and others 1 Cash Check 1081 13
Now in Dispute, 1 Box Mens Coats, 6 Remnants Silk 1 Chest Tea 1802 0
1 Box with four Silk Petticoats; but two came to hand, 686 14
The two missing 61 10
Detained by Mr. Langdon 78 12 0
12897 17
19124 3
His Cloathing and Goods bought in France and Cash bro't in the Ship 7110 0
This Balance appears to be missing, Livers 12014 3
The above Balance, and a larger Sum I expect to have a proper Demand upon the said Meed for as soon as I receive the necessary Papers from France, which I trust will be in a short Time. If he the said Meed had taken an Inventory of his own Goods, Cash &c. and sworn to it, I believe the People concern'd would have had a more favourable Opinion of him, but his declining upon Oath, and so confident as to breezen it out—publishes it in the public print—that he delivered it out—every Article that belonged to the deceas'd, when I am positive he delivered but two old Shirts that the deceas'd ever wore; 8 other old Shirts which he never wore, nor were they ever made for him; some mark'd I. P. and E. P. And could it be possible that the deceas'd should be entirely destitute of Navigator's Books and Instruments—there has no such Articles been delivered, except one Davis's Quadron, one Spy Glass and seven Charts—The deceas'd had on Board the Ship three of Hadley's Quodrons, Books, &c. but there is so many Articles that I know of is missing, it would be tedious to mention them. But its surprising at the Impertinence of the Wretch*, when I must acquaint the Public, that not more than fifteen Minutes after my Brother was shot, the said Meed and two other Officers went below and there tarried three or four Hours (I do not say) at plundering and robbing the deceas'd (judge for your selves ye concerned) how he could leave the Ship when in Distress, and omit putting a Centry over the deceas'd's Goods—But it is all of a Piece, and I trust in Time the Villainy will come out.
* It seems Mr. Meed likes the Title.
Portsmouth, August 14, 1779. John Pickering.
NEW-YORK [City] July 6, 1779.
On Monday last arrived his Majesty's Ship Le Bland, in twelve days from Halifax, by whom we have following particulars:
HALIFAX, July 6, 1779.
YESTERDAY arrived in this harbour, his Majesty's Ship Le Bland, Andrew Barkley, Esq; Commander, and we are informed, that Gen. M'Lean, with the troops he took from hence the 12th of last month, had arrived at Peno Scot, under convoy of his Majesty's ships Le Blonde, Neurilus, North, &c. where he had taken a very secure and advantageous post. The Le Bland with the armed Schooner Arbuthnot came from hence last Thursday.
July 28. On Sunday evening last Commodore Sir James Wallace, Commander in Chief of the Fleet to be employed in the Southern District of America, arrived off the coast in his Majesty's ship the Experiment, of 50 guns, and brought over with him passengers, his Excellency Sir James Wright, Bart. our most worthy Governor, and his daughters.
Sir James Wallace, on his passage, took the General Arnold, mounting 18 six pounders, and having 95 men, from Newbury, on a cruise off Portugal; and a brigantine bound from Philadelphia for St. Eustatia, commanded by a Capt. Ever.
Last Wednesday night the inhabitants of this town illuminated their houses, to testify their joy on account of the arrival at Sir James Wright, Bart. from England.
TO BE SOLD, this Week,
By James Sheafe,
RAISINS and Malaga WINE by the Case.

MADRID, April 20.
Our grand fleet are still in the port of Cadiz, and although the preparations do not in the least slacken, the destination of this fleet is not known, nor have they sailing orders yet; but the continual run of Couriers between this Court and France makes it imagined that some important negotiation is upon the carpet.
Paris, May 6. The Chevalier de la Luserne, is to set out immediately as Plenipotentiary to the United States of America, Mr. Gerard being dangerously ill; the Chevalier takes with him Mr. Metz, one of the Parliament Council, as his Secretary.
LONDON.
White Hall, May 12. 1779.
THE king has been pleased to appoint Major General James Robertson, to be Captain General and Governor in Chief of his Majesty's province of New York, in America, in the room of Major General Tryon.
[Lon. Gaz.]
April 10. According to the latest advices from Madrid, the King of Spain continues inflexible in his intentions of observing the strictest neutrality in our rupture with France.
Lord Waymouth in his last conference with the Spanish Ambassador demanded his master's ultimate intentions of acting in our present disputes with France, and concluded with saying, "That the sceptre of Great Britain is in the hands of a Prince as little capable of being amused as intimidated."
Dispatches are gone out to recall Admiral Byron to command the fleet at home, but no part of his squadron is to return with him, except a single ship, in which he will take his passage.
April 19. A correspondent says, that it is fact, we have lost fifteen hundred men by sickness at St. Lucia.
A nobleman of the first order in France is said to have arrived on Saturday at the Spanish Ambassador's, in Great George-Street, entrusted with plenipotentiary powers to open, in conjunction with his excellency, some very flattering terms for adjusting the present differences between the courts of London and Versailles.
A message from his Majesty to the House is expected in a day or two; it is reported a proposal of peace has been made, through the mediation of Spain.
Letters from Amsterdam, dated the 15th, mention a receipt of letters from Constantinople, that peace was declared between the Turks and Russians.
May 23. Yesterday Admiral Sir Chas. Hardy was present at the levee at St. James's, when he had the honor of a conference. Sir Charles afterwards took leave of his Majesty, and yesterday evening he set out for Portsmouth, in order to take upon him the command of the grand fleet, which is ordered out to sea, immediately.
On Tuesday evening there was a meeting of all the Cabinet Ministers at Lord North's house in Downing-street, relative to the present situation of affairs in Ireland.
On Tuesday last Sir Robert Harland resigned the command of the fleet. The reasons he gave in his letter of resignation to the Lords of the Admiralty, were, that he was to have two officers in command under him (Admirals Digby and Darby) whose ideas of discipline were so different from his own, he could not expect any other obedience or treatment from them, than what Admiral Keppel had met with from Sir Hugh Pallise.
Orders are gone to stop Admiral Arbuthnot from proceeding to America. He was in Torbay, with his whole fleet, when the last advices came from him—The reason for stopping him, is, the fleet cannot be spared; they are wanted for our home defence. Except this fleet, there are not four ships of the line ready for sea. All the ships at Portsmouth were fitted to fit out Admiral Arbuthnot. And if the admiralty were ordered to fit out ten ships of the line to morrow, they could not do it in four weeks.— London Even.
It was yesterday reported, and credited, that government had received some intelligence from Georgia. The news was bad; and therefore kept as secret as possible. However, it was whispered, that one or two skirmishes had
happen'd between Gen. Prevost & Gen. Lincoln, in which the latter had the advantage. Sir Henry Clinton receiving no reinforcements, can neither reinforce Gen. Prevost, nor act offensively himself.
The Captain of a privateer who is put into Ireland, from a cruise, on the 28th ult. fell in with two fleets of ships, all men of war and frigates, under French and Spanish colours, who fired several shots to bring him too, but the Captain of the privateer bore away immediately; notwithstanding which they would have taken him had it not been for sudden gale of wind, by which means he got clear. He says they are five ships and full of men. Two days before he got into Ireland he fell in with two small French vessels loaded with ammunition, &c. one of which he took and carried in with him, the crew of which informed him that they were going to join the fleet, and were bound to the West Indies.
The Russians Navy is far from being so formidable as has been represented. When the present Empress ascended the throne, they had only seventeen ships of war, and about fourteen have been built during her reign; four more are now building; this would make the whole 35; but of these, five were lost in the Archipelago during the war with the Turks, and three have been broke up as unserviceable, so that at most, the Russian navy does not now consist of more than 27 ships, and many of those very old.
May 18. Yesterday Sir Charles Hardy hoisted his flag on board the Victory man of war of 100 guns, he being appointed Commander in Chief of the grand fleet; part of which is dropped down from Spithead to St. Helens, and the rest will sail in a few days.
A letter from Paris says, that 17 men of war are out on cruises from Brest alone, 11 of them frigates, and six of the line.
Dr. FRANKLIN is appointed by Congress sole Minister Plenipotentiary to the Court of France from the United States of America, and the Commission is arrived with the despatch, which supercedes the two Commissions of Adams and Lee.
From a late London MAGAZINE.
Anecdote of Count D'ESTAING.
SHORTLY after the conclusion of the late war, the Court of France, as a reward for the Count D'Estaing's services, bestowed upon him the Government of St. Domingo; where he no sooner arrived than he testified his enmity against Great Britain, by fitting out a squadron of four ships of war, in June 1764, and possessed himself of Turks-islands, just ceded to England by the treaty of peace; this caused a great clamour in London, and it was imagined would have made a fresh rupture with France. That Count, however, disavowed his proceedings, and restored the islands, enjoining, at the same time, the Count D'Estaing to make such reparation for the damage we had sustained as the Governor of Jamaica (Mr. Lyttleton) should deem adequate thereto. When D'Estaing received these instructions, he declared he would no longer hold a Government where he was to be the instrument of such disgrace to his King and country; and joining his hands, with eyes to Heaven, exclaimed, "Que le ciel faire la grace evant le trespas, devoir le moment ou ces fiers insulaires ne possedron n'y terres n'yiles ou nouveau monde," i. e. "May Heaven grant, that before my death I may see the moment, when these proud Islanders shall not possess either Continent or Island in the new world."
From the Massachusetts Spy.
THE number seven, which signifies fulness or perfection, from various passages of scripture appears to point out events interesting and important. But nothing of this kind is more extraordinary than what is afforded to us in the course of the present contest with Great Britain. On the seven-
teenth day of the month the repeal of the stamp act passed the House of Commons. On the seventeenth day of the month the news of it arrived at Boston. On the seventeenth day of the month and the seventh day of the week was the battle on Bunker's Hill, from which time just three years. On the seventeenth day of the month was the commencement of hostilities between France and Great Britain. On the seventh day of the week was the battle at German Town; and on the seventh day of the month was the battle at Still water.
In August 1776, instructions were drawn up by the authority of the King of Great Britain, and directed to General Charlton in Canada, relative to the late inglorious expedition of the British Northern army. This dispatch not arriving, in seven months from the above date, new instructions were formed; from which it appears that Burgoyne was to proceed with an army of about seven thousand, and St. Leger with about seven hundred, besides Canadians and Indians, to force their way to Albany—in seven months from the last mention period, on the seventeenth day of the month, in the seventeenth year of the reign of the Tyrant George III. who is the seventh Monarch from the Tyrant Charles I. in seven years and seven months from the first blood shed by the British troops in the present unhappy contest, the massacre in King Street, Boston, which was seven years from the assumed right of the British Parliament to tax America; in seventy years from the union of England and Scotland; in seventeen months from the late important capture, on the seventh day of the month, of seven sail of vessels richly laden. In the year of our Lord, one thousand seven hundred and seventy-seven, Burgoyne and his Whole Army Surrendered.
Seven marks the crisis of the rising States, When Britain's hero bow to valliant Gates. In seventy-seven our troops to conquest led, Our foes fell captives, or like dastards fled. When seventeen years the Tyrant George [had reign'd, His troops were vanquish'd and his glory [stain'd. Seven years and months successive interven'd From Preston's carnage to the important [scene, When, freedom's sons in one firm band [combin'd, Our foes surrender'd and their arms resign. With joy review the perfect number seven, And prize the bounties of indulgent Heaven, But let seven thunders blast the Tyrant's ire, And warm our heroes with electrick fire! An Observer.
|| Wolfborough ||
State of New Hampshire, Strafford, ss. THE Non Resident Proprietors of Wolfborough in said State and county, who have not paid their taxes on their land in said town for the year 1778, are hereby notified, that unless they pay their respective taxes, that so much of their lands in said town will be sold at public vendue at the dwelling house of the subscriber, in said town, on Tuesday the 7th day of September next, as will pay said taxes, with incidental charges.
The Names of the delinquents are as follows, viz: George Meserve for Lots No. 7 in the Addition, State Tax, 1. 2 1 5. Town tax 6 s. Dit. No. 9, 1. 2 1 0 Town tax 6 s. Ditto 20, 1. 2 5 1 Town tax 6 s. 6 Ditto 21, 1 1 19 6 Town tax 5 s. 6 Capt. George King No. 13, 1. 1 12. 4 s. 8 William Terrey, No. 17. 1. 2 8 9 7 s. James Stacey, Esq; No. 2, in Addition, 1. 1 9 and 4 s. 2
Wolfborough, Aug. 2. 1779. James Connor, Constable.
THE Proprietors Meeting of Barnstead to be held the 14th Day of this Instant, at the Meeting House in Newington.