The Virginia gazette (Williamsburg [Va.]), 1774-09-29 00:00:00

VIRGINIA
GAZETTE.
With the freest ADVICES,
FOREIGN and DOMESTICK.
IN CIVITATE LIBERA LINGUAM MENTEMQUE
LIBERAS ESSE DEBERE. Suet. in Tib. S. 28.
Printed by ALEX. PURDIE, and JOHN DIXON, at the POST OFFICE.
THE SPEECH of the Right Reverend Doctor JONATHAN SHIPLEY, Lord Bishop of St. Asaph's, in Favour of the BOSTON CHARTER.
MY LORDS, It is of such great Importance to compose, or even to moderate the Dissensions, which subsist at present between our unhappy Country and her Colonies, that I cannot help endeavouring, from the faint Prospect I have of contributing something to so good an End, to overcome the inexpressible Reluctance I feel at uttering my Thoughts before the most respectable of all Audiences. The true Object of all our Deliberations on this Occasion, which I hope we shall never lose Sight of, is a full and cordial Reconciliation with North America. Now, I own, my Lords, I have many Doubts whether the Terrors and Punishments we hang out to them at present are the surest Means of producing this Reconciliation. Let us at least do this Justice to the People of North America, to own, that we can all remember a Time when they were much better Friends than at present to their Mother Country. They are neither our natural nor our determined Enemies. Before the Stamp Act, we considered them in the Light of as good Subjects as the Natives of any County in England. It is worth While to inquire by what Steps we first gained their Affection, and preserved it so long; and by what Conduct we have lately lost it. Such an Inquiry may point out the Means of restoring Peace, and make the Use of Force unnecessary against a People whom I cannot yet forbear to consider as our Brethren. It has always been a most arduous Task to govern distant Provinces, with even a tolerable Appearance of Justice. The Viceroys and Governors of other Nations are usually temporary Tyrants, who think themselves obliged to make the most of their Time; who not only plunder the People, but carry away their Spoils, and dry up all the Sources of Commerce and Industry. Taxation, in their Hands, is an unlimited Power of Oppression; but in whatever Hands the Power of Taxation is lodged, it implies and includes all other Powers. Arbitrary Taxation is Plunder authorised by Law; it is the Support and the Essence of Tyranny, and has done more Mischief to Mankind than those other three Scourges from Heaven, - Famine, Pestilence, and the Sword. I need not carry your Lordships out of your own Knowledge, or out of your own Dominions, to make you conceive what Misery this Right of Taxation is capable of producing in a Provincial Government. We need only recollect, that our Countrymen in India have in the Space of five or six Years, in Virtue of this Right, destroyed, and driven away, more Inhabitants from Bengal, than are to be found at present in all our American Colonies; more than all those formidable Numbers which we have been nursing up for the Space of 200 Years, with so much Care and Success, to the Atonishment of all Europe. This is no Exaggeration, my Lords, but plain Matter of Fact, collected from the Accounts sent over by Mr. Hastings, whose Name I mention with Honour and Veneration; and I must own, such Accounts have very much lessened the Pleasure I used to feel in thinking myself an Englishman. We ought surely not to hold our Colonies totally inexcusable, for wishing to exempt themselves from a Grievance which has caused such unexampled Devastation; and, my Lords, it would be too disgraceful to ourselves to try so cruel an Experiment more than once. Let us reflect, that before these Innovations were thought of, by following the Line of good Conduct which had been marked out by our Ancestors, we governed North America with mutual Benefit to them and ourselves. It was a happy Idea that made us first consider them rather as Instruments of Commerce than as Objects of Government. It was wise, and generous, to give them the Form and the Spirit of our own Constitution; an Assembly in which a greater Equality of Representation has been preserved than at home, and Councils and Governors such as were adapted to their Situation, though they must be acknowledged to be very inferior Copies of the Dignity of this House and the Majesty of the Crown. But what is far more valuable than all the rest, we gave them Liberty. We allowed them to use their own Judgment in the Management of their own Interest. The Idea of taxing them never entered our Heads. On the contrary, they have experienced our Liberality on many publick Occasions: We have given them Bounties to encourage their Industry, and have demanded no Return but what every State exacts from its Colonies; the Advantages of an exclusive Commerce, and the Regulations that are necessary to secure it. We made Requisitions to them on great Occasions, in the same Manner as our Princes formerly asked Benevolences of their Subjects; and as nothing was asked but what was just for the publick Good, it was always granted, and they sometimes did more than we expected. The Matter of Right was neither disputed, nor even considered. And let us not forget that the People of New England were themselves, during the last War, the most forward of all in the national Cause; that every Year we voted them a considerable Sum, in Acknowledgement of their Zeal and their Services; that, in the preceding War, they alone enabled us to make the Treaty of Aix la Chapelle, by furnishing us with the only Equivalent for the Towns that were taken from our Allies in Flanders; and that, in Times of Peace, they alone have taken from us six Times as much of our Woollen Manufactures as the whole Kingdom of Ireland. Such a Colony, my Lords, not only from the Justice, but from the Gratitude we owe them, have a Right to be heard in their Defence; and if their Crimes are not of the most inexcusable Kind, I could almost say they have a Right to be forgiven. But, in the Times we speak of, our publick Intercourse was carried on with Ease and Satisfaction. We regarded them as our Friends and Fellow Citizens, and relied as much upon their Fidelity as on the Inhabitants of our own Country. They saw our Power with Pleasure, for they considered it only as their Protection; they inherited our Laws, our Language, and our Customs; they preferred our Manufactures, and followed our Fashions, with a Partiality that secured our exclusive Trade with them, more effectually than all the Regulations and Vigilance of the Custom-house. Had we suffered them to enrich us a little longer, and to grow a little richer themselves, their Men of Fortune, like the West Indians, would undoubtedly have made this Country their Place of Education and Resort; for they looked up to England with Reverence and Affection, as to the Country of their Friends and Ancestors; they esteemed and they called it their Home, and thought of it as the Jews once thought of the Land of Canaan. Now, my Lords, consider with yourselves what were the Chains and Ties that united this People to their Mother Country, with so much Warmth and Affection, at so amazing a Distance. The Colonies of other Nations have been discontented with their Treatment, and not without sufficient Cause; always murmuring at their Grievances, and sometimes breaking out into Acts of Rebellion. Our Subjects at Home, with all their Reasons for Satisfaction, have never been entirely satisfied. Since the Beginning of this Century, we have had two Rebellions, several Plots and Conspiracies; and we ourselves have been Witnesses to the most dangerous Excesses of Sedition. But the Provinces in North America have engaged in no Party, have excited no Opposition; they have been utter Strangers even to the Name of Whig and Tory. In all Changes, in all Revolutions, they have quietly followed the Fortunes, and submitted to the Government, of England. Now let me appeal to your Lordships, as to Men of enlarged and liberal Minds, who have been led by your Office and Rank to the Study of History. Can you find, in the long Succession of Ages, in the whole Extent of human Affairs, a single Instance where distant Provinces have
been preserved in so flourishing a State, and kept at the same Time in such due Subjection to their Mother Country? My Lords, there is no Instance; the Case never existed before. It is perhaps the most singular Phenomenon in all Civil History, and the Cause of it well deserves your serious Consideration. The true Cause is, that a Mother Country never existed before who placed her Natives and her Colonies on the same equal Footing, and joined with them in fairly carrying on one common Interest. You ought to consider this, my Lords, not as a mere historical Fact, but as a most important and invaluable Discovery. It enlarges our Ideas of the Power and Energy of good Government, beyond all former Examples; and shows that it can act, like Gravitation, at the greatest Distances. It proves, to a Demonstration, that you may have good Subjects in the remotest Corners of the Earth, if you will but treat them with Kindness and Equity. If you have any Doubts of the Truth of this Kind of Reasoning, the Experience we have had, of a different Kind, will entirely remove them. The good Genius of our Country had led us to the simple and happy Method of governing Freemen, which I have endeavoured to describe. Our Ministers received it from their Predecessors, and for some Time continued to observe it, but without knowing its Value. At length, presuming on their own Wisdom, and the quiet Disposition of the Americans, they flattered themselves that we might reap great Advantages from their Prosperity, by destroying the Cause of it. They chose, in an unlucky Hour, to treat them as other Nations have thought fit to treat their Colonies; they threatened, and they taxed them. I do not now inquire whether Taxation is Matter of Right; I only consider it as Matter of Experiment, for surely the Art of Government itself is founded on Experience. I need not suggest what were the Consequences of this Change of Measures. The Evils produced by it were such as we still remember, and still feel. We suffered more by our Loss of Trade with them than the Wealth flowing in from India was able to recompense. The Bankruptcy of the East India Company may be sufficiently accounted for, by the Rapine abroad and the Knavery at home; but it certainly would have been delayed some Years, had we continued our Commerce with them, in the single Article of Tea. But that, and many other Branches of Trade, have been diverted into other Channels, and may probably never return, entire, to their old Course. But, what is worst of all, we have lost their Confidence and Friendship; we have ignorantly undermined the most solid Foundation of our own Power. In Order to observe the strictest Impartiality, it is but just for us to inquire what we have gained by these Taxes, as well as what we have lost. I am assured, that out of all the Sums raised in America, the last Year but one, if the Expenses are deducted, which the Natives would else have discharged themselves, the neat Revenue paid into the Treasury, to go in Aid of the Sinking Fund, or to be employed in whatever publick Services Parliament shall think fit, is eighty five Pounds. Eighty five Pounds, my Lords, is the whole Equivalent we have received for all the Hatred and Mischief, and all the infinite Losses, this Kingdom has suffered, during that Year, in her Disputes with North America. Money that is earned so dearly as this ought to be expended with great Wisdom and Economy. My Lords, were you to take up but one Thousand Pounds more from North America, upon the same Terms, the Nation itself would be a Bankrupt. But the most amazing, and the most alarming Circumstance, is still behind; it is, that our Case is so incurable that all this Experience has made no Impression upon us. And yet, my Lords, if you could but keep these Facts, which I have ventured to lay before you, for a few Moments, in your Minds (supposing your Right of Taxation to be never so clear) yet, I think, you must necessarily perceive that it cannot be exercised in any Manner that can be advantageous to ourselves, or them. We have not always the Wisdom to tax ourselves with Propriety, and I am confident we would never tax a People at that Distance without infinite Blunders and infinite Oppression. And to own the Truth, my Lords, we are not honest enough to trust ourselves with the Power of shifting our own Burthens upon them. Allow me, therefore, to conclude, I think, unanswerably, that the Inconvenience and Distress we have felt in this Change of our Conduct, no less than the Ease and Tranquillity we formerly found in the Pursuit of it, will force us, if we have any Sense left, to return to the good old Path we trod in so long, and found it the Way of Pleasantness. I desire to have it understood, that I am opposing no Rights that our Legislature may think proper to claim; I am only comparing two different Methods of Government. By your old rational and generous Administration, by treating the Americans as your Friends and Fellow Citizens, you made them the happiest of human Kind, and at the same Time drew all from them, by Commerce, more clear Profit than Spain has drawn from its Mines; and their growing Numbers were a daily-increasing Addition to your Strength. There was no Room for Improvement, or Alteration, in so noble a System of Policy as this. It was sanctified by Time, by Experience, by publick Utility. I will venture to use a bold Language, my Lords; I will assert, that if we had uniformly adopted this equitable Administration in all our distant Provinces, as far as Circumstances would admit, it would have placed this Country, for Ages, at the Head of human Affairs, in every Quarter of the World. My Lords, this is no visionary or chimerical Doctrine; the Idea of governing Provinces and Colonies by Force is visionary and chimerical. The Experiment has often been tried, and it has never succeeded. It ends infallibly in the Ruin of the one Country or the other, or in the last Degree of Wretchedness. If there is any Truth, my Lords, in what I have said (and I most firmly believe it all to be true) let me recommend it to you to resume that generous and benevolent Spirit, in the Discussion of our Differences, which used to be the Source of our Union. We certainly did wrong in taxing them. When the Stamp Act was repealed, we did wrong in laying on other Taxes, which tended only to keep alive a Claim that was mischievous, impracticable, and useless. We acted contrary to our own Principles of Liberty, and to the generous Sentiments of our Sovereign, when we desired to have their Judges dependent on the Crown for their Stipends, as well as their Continuance. It was equally unwise to wish to make the Governors independent of the People for their Salaries. We ought to consider the Governors, not as Spies intrusted with the Management of our Interest, but as the Servants of the People, recommended to them by us. Our Ears ought to be open to every Complaint against the Governors, but we ought not to suffer the Governors to complain of the People. We have taken a different Method, to which no small Part of our Difficulties are owing; our Ears have been open to the Governors, and shut to the People. This must necessarily lead us to countenance the Jobs of interested Men, under the Pretence of defending the Rights of the Crown. But the People are certainly the best Judges whether they are well governed, and the Crown can have no Rights inconsistent with the Happiness of the People. Now, my Lords, we ought to do what I have suggested, and many Things more, out of Prudence and Justice, to win their Affection, and to do them publick Service. If we have a Right to govern them, let us exert it for the true Ends of Government. But, my Lords, what we ought to do, from Motives of Reason and Justice, is much more than is sufficient to bring them to a reasonable Accommodation; for thus, as I apprehend, stands the Case: They petition for a Repeal of an Act of Parliament, which they complain of as unjust and oppressive. And there is not a Man amongst us, not the warmest Friend of Administration, who does not sincerely wish that Act had never been made. In Fact, they only ask for what we wish to be rid of. Under such a Disposition of Mind, One would imagine there could be no Occasion for Fleets and Armies to bring Men to a good Understanding. But, my
Lords, our Difficulty lies in the Point of Honour. We must not let down the Dignity of the Mother Country, but preserve her Sovereignty over all the Parts of the British Empire. This Language has something in it that sounds pleasant to the Ears of Englishmen, but is otherwise of little Weight; for sure, my Lords, there are Methods of making reasonable Concessions, and yet without injuring our Dignity. Ministers are generally fruitful in Expedients to reconcile Difficulties of this Kind, to escape the Embarrassments of Forms, the Competitions of Dignity and Precedence, and to let clashing Rights sleep, while they transfer their own personal Business. Now, my Lords, on this Occasion, can they find no Excuse, no Pretence, no Invention, no happy Turn of Language, not one colourable Argument, for doing the greatest Service they can ever render to their Country? It must be something more than Incapacity that makes Men barren of Expedients, at such a Season as this. Do, but for once, remove this impracticable Stateness and Dignity, and treat the Matter with a little common Sense, and a little good Humour, and our Reconciliation would not be the Work of an Hour. But after all, my Lords, if there is any Thing mortifying in undoing the Errors of our Ministers, it is a Mortification we ought to submit to. If it was unjust to tax them, we ought to repeal it for their Sakes; if it was unwise to tax them, we ought to repeal it for our own. A Matter so trivial in itself as the three-penny Duty upon Tea, but which has given Cause to so much national Hatred and Reproach, ought not to be suffered to subsist an unnecessary Day. Must the Interest, the Commerce, and the Union of this Country and her Colonies, be all of them sacrificed to save the Credit of one imprudent Measure of Administration? I own I cannot comprehend that there is any Dignity either in being in the wrong, or in persisting in it. I have known Friendship preserved and Affection gained, but I never knew Dignity lost, by the candid Acknowledgment of an Error. And, my Lords, let me appeal to your Experience of a few Years backward (I will not mention Particulars, because I would pass no Censures, and revive no unpleasant Reflections) but I think every candid Minister must own, that Administration has suffered in more Instances than one, both in Interest and Credit, by not choosing to give up Points that could not be defended. With Regard to the People of Boston, I am free to own that I neither approve of their Riots nor their Punishment; and yet, if we insist it as we ought, with a Consciousness that we were ourselves the Aggressors, that we gave the Provocation, and that their Disobedience is the Fruit of our own imprudent and imperious Conduct, I think the Punishment cannot rise to any great Degree of Severity. I own, my Lords, I have read the Report of the Lords Committees of this House, with very different Sentiments from those with which it was drawn up. It seems to be designed that we should consider their violent Measures and Speeches as so many determined Acts of Opposition to the Sovereignty of England, arising from the Malignity of their own Hearts. One would think the Mother Country had been totally silent, and passive, in the Progress of the whole Affair. I, on the contrary, consider these Violences as the natural Effects of such Measures as ours on the Minds of Freemen; and this is the most useful Point of View in which Government can consider them. In their Situation, a wise Man would expect to meet with the strongest Marks of Passion and Imprudence, and be prepared to forgive them. The first and easiest Thing to be done is to correct our own Errors, and I am confident we should find it the most effectual Method to correct theirs. At any Rate, let us put ourselves in the right; and then, if we must contend with North America, we shall be unanimous at home, and the Wise and the Moderate there will be our Friends. At present, we force every North American to be our Enemy; and the Wise and Moderate at home, and those immense Multitudes which must soon begin to suffer by the Madness of our Rulers, will unite to oppose them. It is a strange Idea we have taken up, to cure their Resentments by increasing their Provocations, to remove the Effects of our own ill Conduct by multiplying the Instances of it. But the Spirit of Blindness and Infatuation is gone forth; we are hurrying wildly on, without any fixed Design, without any important Object. We pursue a vain Phantom of unlimited Sovereignty, which was not made for Man; and reject the solid Advantages of a moderate, useful, and intelligible Authority. That just God, whom we have all so deeply offended, can hardly inflict a severer national Punishment than by committing us to the natural Consequences of our own Conduct. Indeed, in my Opinion, a blacker Cloud never hung over this Island. To reason consistently with the Principles of Justice and national Friendship which I have endeavoured to establish, or rather to revive what was established by our Ancestors, as our wisest Rule of Conduct for the Government of America, I must necessarily disapprove of the Bill before us, for it contradicts every one of them. In our present Situation, every Act of the Legislature, even our Acts of Severity, ought to be so many Steps towards the Reconciliation we wish for; but to change the Government of a People, without their Consent, is the highest and most arbitrary Act of Sovereignty that one Nation can exercise over another. The Romans hardly ever proceeded to this Extremity, even over a conquered Nation, till its frequent Revolts and Insurrections had made them deem it incorrigible. The very Idea of it implies a most abject and slavish Dependency, in the inferior State. Recollect, that the Americans are Men of like Passions with ourselves, and think how deeply this Treatment must affect them. They have the same Veneration for their Charters that we have for our Magna Charta, and they ought in Reason to have greater; they are the Title Deeds to all their Rights, both publick and private. What, my Lords, must these Rights never acquire any legal Assurance and Stability? Can they derive no Force from the peaceable Possession of near two Hundred Years? And must the fundamental Constitution of a powerful State be for ever subject to as captious Alterations as you think fit to make in the Charters of a little mercantile Company, or the Corporation of a Borough? This will undoubtedly furnish Matter for a more pernicious Debate than has yet been moved. Every other Colony will make the Case its own. They will complain, that their Right can never be ascertained; that every Thing belonging to them depends upon our arbitrary Will; and may think it better to run any Hazard than to submit to the Violence of their Mother Country, in a Matter in which they can neither see Moderation nor End. But let us coolly inquire, what is the Reason of this unheard of Innovation. Is it to make them peaceable? My Lords, it will make them mad. Will they be better governed if we introduce this Change? Will they be more our Friends? The least that such a Measure can do is to make them hate us. And would to God, my Lords, we had governed ourselves with as much Economy, Integrity, and Prudence, as they have done. Let them continue to enjoy the Liberty our Fathers gave them. Give them, did I say! they are Coheirs of Liberty with ourselves, and their Portion of the Inheritance has been much better looked after than ours. Suffer them to enjoy a little longer that short Period of publick Integrity and domestick Happiness which seems to be the Portion allotted by Providence to young rising States. Instead of hoping that their Constitution may receive Improvement from our Skill in Government, the most useful Wish I can form in their Favour is, that Heaven may long preserve them from our Vices and our Politics. Let me add further, that to make any Changes in their Government, without their Consent, would be to transgress the wisest Rules of Policy, and to wound our most important Interests. As they increase in Numbers, and in Riches, our comparative Strength must lessen. In another Age, when our Power has begun to lose something of its Superiority, we should be happy if we could support our Authority by mutual Goodwill and the Habit of commanding, but chiefly by these original Establishments which Time and publick Honour might have rendered inviolable.

Our Posterity will then have Reason to lament that they cannot avail themselves of those Treasures of publick Friendship and Confidence which our Fathers had wisely hoarded up, and we are throwing away. It is hard, it is cruel, besides all our Debts and Taxes, and those enormous Expenses which are multiplying upon us every Year, to load our unhappy Sons with the Hatred and Curses of North America. Indeed, my Lords, we are treating Posterity very scurvily. We have mortgaged all the Lands, we have cut down all the Oaks, we are now trampling down the Fences, rooting up the Seedlings and Samplers, and ruining all the Resources of another Age. We shall send the next Generation into the World, like the wretched Heir of a worthless Father, without Money, Credit, or Friends; with a stripped, encumbered, and perhaps untenanted Estate.
Having spoke so largely against the Principle of the Bill, it is hardly necessary to enter into the Merits of it. I shall only observe, that even if we had the Consent of the People to alter their Government, it would be unwise to make such Alterations as these. To give the Appointment of the Governor and the Council to the Crown, and the Disposal of all Places, even of the Judges, and with a Power of removing them, to the Governor, is evidently calculated with a View to form a strong Party in our Favour. This, I know, has been done in other Colonies; but still this is opening a Source of perpetual Discord, where it is our Interest always to agree. If we mean any Thing by this Establishment, it is to support the Governor and Council against the People, i. e. to quarrel with our Friends, that we may please their Servants. This Scheme of governing them by a Party is not wisely imagined, it is much too premature, and at all Events must turn to our Disadvantage. If it fails, it will only make us contemptible; if it succeeds, it will make us odious. It is our Interest to take very little Part in their domestic Administration of Government, but purely to watch over them for their Good. We never gained so much by North America as when we let them govern themselves, and were content to trade with them and protect them. One would think, my Lords, there was some Statute Law prohibiting us, under the severest Penalties, to profit by Experience.
My Lords, I have ventured to lay my Thoughts before you, on the greatest national Concern that ever came under your Deliberation, with as much Honesty as you will meet with from abler Men, and with a melancholy Assurance that not a Word of it will be regarded; and yet, my Lords, with your Permission, I will waste one short Argument more on the same Cause, one that I own I am fond of, and which contains in it what, I think, must affect every generous Mind. My Lords, I look upon North America as the only great Nursery of Freemen now left upon the Face of the Earth. We have seen the Liberties of Poland and Sweden swept away in the Course of one Year, by Treachery and Usurpation. The three free Towns in Germany are like so many dying Sparks, that go out one after another; and which must all be soon extinguished, under the destructive Greatness of their Neighbours. Holland is little more than a great trading Company, with luxurious Manners, and an exhausted Revenue; with little Strength, and with less Spirit. Switzerland alone is free and happy, within the narrow Enclosure of its Rocks and Vallies. As for the State of this Country, my Lords, I can only refer myself to your own secret Thoughts. I am disposed to think, and hope, the best of publick Liberty. Were I to describe her according to my own Ideas at present, I should say that she has a sickly Countenance; but I trust she has a strong Constitution.
But whatever may be our future Fate, the greatest Glory that attends this Country, a greater than any other Nation ever acquired, is to have formed and nursed up to such a State of Happiness those Colonies whom we are now so eager to butcher. We ought to cherish them as the immortal Monuments of our publick Justice and Wisdom, as the Heirs of our better Days, of our old Arts and Manners, and of our expiring national Virtues. What Work of Art, or Power, or publick Utility, has ever equalled the Glory of having peopled a Continent, without Guilt or Bloodshed, with a Multitude of free and happy Commonwealths, to have given them the best Arts of Life and Government, and to have suffered them, under the Shelter of our Authority, to acquire in Peace the Skill to use them? In Comparison of this, the Policy of governing by Influence, and even the Pride of War and Victory, are dishonest Tricks, and poor contemptible Pageantry.
We seem not to be sensible of the high and important Trust which Providence has committed to our Charge. The most precious Remains of civil Liberty, that the World can now boast of, are now lodged in our Hands; and God forbid that we should violate so sacred a Deposit. By enslaving your Colonies, you not only ruin the Peace, the Commerce, and the Fortune of both Countries, but you extinguish the fairest Hopes, shut up the last Asylum of Mankind. I think, my Lords, without being weakly superstitious, that a good Man may hope that Heaven will take Part against the Execution of a Plan which seems big, not only with Mischief, but Impiety.
Let us be content with the Spoils and the Destruction of the East. If your Lordships can see no Impropriety in it, let the Plunderer and the Oppressor still go free. But let not the Love of Liberty be the only Crime you think worthy of Punishment. I fear we shall soon make it a Part of our national Character to ruin every Thing that has the Misfortune to depend upon us.
No Nation has ever before contrived, in so short a Space of Time, without any War or publick Calamity (unless unwise Measures may be so called) to destroy such ample Resources of Commerce, Wealth, and Power, as of late were ours, and which, if they had been rightly improved, might have raised us to a State of more honourable and more permanent Greatness than the World has yet seen.
Let me remind the Noble Lords in Administration, that before the Stamp Act they had Power sufficient to answer all the just Ends of Government, and they were all completely answered. If this is the Power they want, though we have lost much of it at present, a few kind Words would recover it all.
But if the Tendency of this Bill is, as I own it appears to me, to acquire a Power of governing them by Influence and Corruption, in the first Place, my Lords, this is not true Government, but a sophisticated Kind, which counterfeits the Appearance, but without the Spirit or Virtue of the true; and then, as it tends to debase their Spirits, and corrupt their Manners, to destroy all that is great and respectable in so considerable a Part of the human Species, and by Degrees to gather them together, with the rest of the World, under the Yoke of universal Slavery. I think, for these Reasons, it is the Duty of every wise Man, of every honest Man, and of every Englishman, by all lawful Means, to oppose it.
CONSTANTINOPLE, June 17.
WE have received a Confirmation that a Body of Russians hath passed the Danube, and that on this Occasion many of our advanced Posts, which were not of sufficient Strength to make Head against the Enemy, withdrew, to join the main Army. As soon as this News reached the Grand Seigneur, he detached divers Corps to observe the Russians, and obstruct their projected Enterprise against Varna. This has given Rise to several Skirmishes between the light Troops of the Enemy and ours, but no Affair of Consequence has ensued.
VIENNA, July 2. By Letters received from Marshal Count de Romanzow, dated at Fockzany, the 17th of June, we are informed that on the 13th of that Month a Russian Corps, commanded by General Kamenkoy, after putting to Flight a Body of about 5000 Turkish Cavalry, made themselves Masters of the Town of Bajardgick. The Russians took three Cannon, and about 150 Prisoners; their Loss is reported to be very inconsiderable.
WARSAW, July 19. It is said here that there are two Parties at the Court of Petersburg, one of which gave its Advice against War, without being attended to till now; but as that Party is gaining the Ascendancy, it is believed that Peace will soon be concluded with the Porte.
MILAN, July 6. Letters from Madrid advise, that by the Means of some Privileges which the King of Spain hath granted, for the Encouragement of divers Manufactures introduced into his Kingdom, they are brought to such Perfection that they no longer have Occasion for those of foreign Countries; so that many Millions of Piaftres now remain in the Kingdom, that would have been sent out of it annually for the Purchase of different Fabricks.
From the Frontiers of POLAND, July 1. The Effects of the Jesuits are all disposed of, and according to the most exact Accounts they amount to 19,500,000 Livres Tournois. Some private Persons only were benefited by them. The Church Plate, and all the sacred Vases, were carried to the Mint. Several Jesuits have yet got no Pensions, and are even in Want of a Subsistence. On the other Hand, the Sieur Benvenuti, who has rendered himself famous by his Writings against the System adopted by the principal Courts of Europe with Respect to the Jesuits, has been received at Warsaw with great Marks of Distinction. The King has heaped Favours upon him, and even admitted him to his Table. The Nuncio could not help expressing his Disatisfaction upon this Occasion, and demanded the Suppression of that Author's Works.
Some Cossacks who were quartered in Volhynia, under the Command of General Romanzow, suddenly abandoned him and dispersed themselves
in the Polish Ukraine, where they commit all Kinds of Excesses. As they form a very large Body, General Romanzow could not stop their Defection; however, he issued a Proclamation, wherein he files them Robbers and Vagabonds, and permits whoever meets them to kill them, or take them up and deliver them to their General.
PARIS, July 18. For some Days past, strict Silence has been kept on the Affair of the Parliament. M. de Sartine hath, it is said, received Orders from above, which he hath sent to all the Coffeehouses and other publick Places, that no Persons talk either Good or Bad of the publick Affairs, so that we are at a Loss what to think. We wait with great Impatience for an Explanation from the King, on an Object which so essentially interests the whole Nation.
LONDON, July 20.
A CORRESPONDENT declares it is with Pleasure he can inform the Publick, that notwithstanding the Experiment failed at Plymouth, the Projector is satisfied a Vessel may be sunk in seventeen Fathoms Water, with a Man in her, which shall remain twelve Hours under Water, and at length come up again, and the Man be produced alive. He has many Wagers depending upon other Undertakings, equally surprising to Mankind. He has undertaken, for a considerable Wager, that a Man shall be enclosed in a leaden Coffin, which shall be soldered up, and put nine Feet under Ground, then covered with the Earth which was dug to receive it, and, after remaining three Days under Ground, the Man shall be produced alive. And a very considerable Wager depends upon his Engagement, that a Man shall be hanged by the Neck at Tyburn for one Hour, and then undergo the Discipline of the Professors at Surgeons Hall, and afterwards walk round St. James's Park in twenty Minutes. He is likewise to convey a Man from Buckingham Gate, to the Palace at Richmond, from the Mouth of a Cannon, who shall carry an Express to their Majesties. These are all to be performed in a Fortnight, or less, if the Projector can find proper Persons sooner who are not afraid of being buried alive, turned into a Skeleton, or shot like Harlequin from the Mouth of a Cannon.
A few Days since a Cause was tried at Guildhall upon the Strength and Justice of a Policy of Enfranchisement upon the Life of the late Mr. H. Member of a great Society. Among many other Evidences, a Foreigner, who knew Mr. H. abroad, was asked what he thought of his Health for some Time previous to his Death? He answered, he thought him "ver bad, going, going." Being asked more particular as to his State a Month or three Weeks previous, he replied, "he thought him quite dead." A Question was then put to him by the Counsel, to know if Mr. H. eat heartily of English Roast Beef? He said, no, he chiefly lived on English Soup. An Explanation being demanded, he said, "By English Soup I mean vat you call Pouch, which Mr. H. took in very great Quantity."
Extract of a Letter from Marli, July 16. "The King has taken Occasion to address his Council in these Terms: "I repeat my Intention of living in Peace and Friendship with every Power. I have the same Assurance from them, notwithstanding the Troubles of the North, which do not promise an early Cessation. I am in Duty bound to inform you, that I shall keep myself upon my Guard. As with my Cousin, George III. my Marine is the Object which I hold nearest at Heart. My Possessions, wanting that, are without Defence; and Negligence respecting my Navy will destroy the Power of my Kingdom. I have ordered twenty Millions for this Purpose, and have agreed to two Millions annually for their Support. Upon you, M. de Boine, I reckon for your Care in executing these my Intentions, as well as upon the Concurrence of the Council, and the Exactness of my Ministers."
A Letter from a Gentleman in London to his Friend in Edinburgh. "Mr. Rymer, in his Fœdera, Conventiones, &c. Angliæ , Volume 6th, Page 18th, having mentioned, in the Time of Edward III. Anno 1357, a Writ to the Abbot and Convent of Westminster, De cura reponenda circa corpus Edwardi I. prompted some Members of the Antiquarian Society to view the Royal Corpse. Having obtained Leave of the Dean, they assisted at opening the large Marble Chest, May 2, 1774, in which lay a yellow Stone Coffin, whose Lid was kept down only by its own Weight. On lifting this up, the Royal Body was found in perfect Preservation, wrapped in three or four Coverings: The utmost was of coarse Cloth, the next Cloth of Gold, strongly waxed, and as fresh as if lately done, which seems to be what was intended by the Writ.
"The Corpse was clothed in a rich Crimson Silk Mantle, painted with White, having at the Intersection of the Panings gilt Ornaments of the Form of a Rose, or rather Cinquefoil of chased Work, studded with red and blue Stones and Pearls; two of them larger, and somewhat different, lay on that Part which fell over the Hands. The Mantle was fastened on the right Shoulder with a superb Fibula, or Brooch, of the same Metal, adorned with 22 red and blue Stones, besides many Pearls, and fastened by anacus, or Tongue, headed with a fine Sapphire, and screwed into three Joints.
"The Face was covered with fine Linen, reduced to Lint, forming a Mask, exactly exhibiting the Features, which were like tanned Leather; the Eyes moveable in the Sockets, the Nose short and small, the upper Lip prominent, the Chin firm; under the Jaws a Quantity of black Dust, either of Flesh or Spices; the Hands only Skin and Bones, without Nails; the right held a gilt Metal Sceptre, surmounted by a Cross fleur; the left another, surmounted by three Clusters of Leaves, and a Dove. The Head was girt with a Crown fleur of the same Metal, above which was felt the Skull. The Feet were wrapped up in the Cloth, but the Toes might be distinctly felt; and the Soles and the Heels were prominent and fleshy. The Length of the whole Corpse was six Feet two Inches. After this particular and minute View and Observations, the Whole was most carefully reinitiated, and closed down more firmly than before.
"It is hoped the Publick will be obliged with a more particular Account of this amazing Preservation, by that learned Society."
July 29. Yesterday was held at Chiswick the Anniversary Meeting of the Freeholders of Middlesex, at which were present John Wilkes and John Glynn, Esquires, the Representatives in Parliament, the Lord Mayor of London, the present Sheriffs, and near 500 other Gentlemen. After Dinner, the following Toasts were drank: The King and Royal Family; the Lord Lieutenant of the County; the two worthy Members, John Wilkes, Esq; and Mr. Serjeant Glynn; the Lord Mayor of London; the Sheriffs; the Duke of Devonshire; Sir George Saville, &c.
The following Motions were made and seconded, and carried without a single Negative: "That the Freeholders of Middlesex, now assembled at this annual Meeting, will support our present worthy Members, John Wilkes, Esq; and Mr. Serjeant Glynn, to represent again this County in Parliament, at the ensuing general Election. That the Thanks of this Meeting be given to Stephen Sayre and William Lee, Esquires, Sheriffs of this County, for having issued the Summons to John Wilkes, Esq; and Mr. Serjeant Glynn, our legal Representatives, to attend their Duty in Parliament the last Session."
Mr. Wilkes and Mr. Glynn separately thanked the Freeholders, for the Honour done them. Mr. Wilkes said, whenever the Justice of Parliament allowed him to take his Seat in the House of Commons he should be always ready to obey their Commands, and to do every Thing in his Power for the Support of that Liberty which was the Birthright of every Englishman. Mr. Serjeant Glynn said, such as his Abilities were, they should always be exerted in the Service of his Country.
The Lord Mayor thanked the Freeholders for the Honour done him; as did Mr. Sheriff Sayre for himself and his Colleague, remarking, that in issuing their Summons to Mr. Wilkes and Mr. Glynn they had only done their Duty.
Sunday Evening, two Ladies, walking in Kensington Gardens, were met by two Gentlemen, who entered into Conversation with them; and after walking together some Time in the Gardens, the Gentlemen begged Permission to accompany them home, to which the Ladies consented. When they came near Grosvenor Gate the pretended Gentlemen pulled out their Pistols and demanded their Money, which amounted to near two Guineas, and their Gold Watches, with which they made off.
July 30. Yesterday a Commission passed the Great Seal for empowering the Lord Chancellor, and several other Lords therein named, to prorogue the Parliament, which will meet on Thursday next, to the 15th of September.
Same Day, after breaking up of the Levee at St. James's, a Cabinet Council was held, said to be relative to some Despatches received from his Majesty's Ambassador at Constantinople.
Extract of a Letter from Turin, July 8. "Great Preparations are making by his Sardinian Majesty for taking Possession of the Island of Corsica, which is ceded to him by the French. This Cession now clearly accounts for the many Arrangements and Augmentations which have been for some Time past making in the Sardinian Army and Navy. A Fleet of fourteen Sail of the Line is now preparing at Cagliari, on Board of which are to be shipped a great Number of Troops, under the Command of the Duke de Chablais, Brother to his Sardinian Majesty, in Order to take Possession of the Island."
Lord Lyttleton, in his Letter to Lord Chatham on the Quebec Bill, says: "There is a Distinction to be made between the Law of France and the Government of France. The one is, the other is not, despotick.
The Law of France originated in Freedom. The Franks were a People of Germany, who came and settled in Gaul; their Kings were elective, and their Power so limited that all their Authority was derived from their Merit and Virtue. They preferred their Liberties till the 13th Century, when they were destroyed by the Contiguity of England and the Despotism of the Minister of Philip the Fair. At this Period, the Despotism of France began; from thence may be dated the Encroachments in the Administration of their Justice, the Infallibility of Property, the Banishment of their Parliaments, together with their Letters de Cachet; none of which, my Lord, are the Institutions of Law, but the Excesses of that Power which has arisen upon the Demolition of Law. What a glorious and happy Revolution would France experience, could you at this Moment restore her ancient Laws, free from the Control of Power!"
Yesterday Afternoon died at his Apartments in the Fleet Prison, Lieutenant General Gansell, of the 55th Regiment. He had, for some Time past, been afflicted with a Rupture; and partly owing to the Intemperance of the Heat, and partly to the Closeness of the Confinement, he was seized with a Fever, the Violence of which he was supposed to have surmounted, when he yesterday fell from his Night Chair on the Floor of the Chamber, and expired, apparently, in an Apoplectic Fit. He has left his whole Fortune, amounting to 2000l. a Year, to a natural Son, about seventeen Years of Age, whose Mother, it is said, is at this Time in the Workhouse at Worcester.
The Salutation to his Majesty of the poor Native of Otaheite, who had neither Presence of Mind nor Language sufficient to utter more than how do you (says a Correspondent) was certainly not only a kind Question, but at this Time would be extremely pertinent to be put to many other Monarchs in Europe. Amongst the rest, the Question of how do you do would be with Difficulty answered by, though very properly put to, the Semiramis of the North, should it be asked how she did, after breaking all her solemn Engagements with the Republick of Poland. Or, what if we should ask the great Machiavel of the North how he found himself, after all the Oppression and Bloodshed he has been guilty of, would it not puzzle him to answer? In short, it might be very well that all Petitions and Remonstrances for the future should conclude with this familiar Question, how do you do?
The Lord Chancellor gave Notice, at the Rising of the Court on Thursday, that he would be on the Bench every Morning by nine o'Clock, as he understood there were upwards of 180 Petitions set down to be heard.
They write from Vienna, that all the Imperial Troops in Transylvania are ordered to join the Troops now in the Venetian Dalmatia.
Instead of a War with France, as was expected at the Commencement of the present French Reign, the two Monarchs seem to meet in one Point, as well on the Score of Religion as Politicks; for whilst Louis XVI. is carrying on a Persecution against the Protestants, almost equal to the most bigotted of his Predecessors, our Catholick King, in Return, is industriously planting the Roman Catholick Religion in the British Dominions.—How weak-sighted in their Politicks must our Ancestors have been, who have written and fought to assert that France was our natural Enemy!
Very intelligent People affirm, that the Premier's Augury of a "ten Year's Peace" will prove a false One; and still more intelligent People assert, that he himself is now fully sensible of it.
It is said, that, for very prudent Reasons, not less than six Regiments on the British Establishment will from henceforth be kept in Commission in the Provinces of New York, Pennsylvania, and New England.
The Duke D'Artois, of 90 Guns, was launched at Rochfort the 5th Instant, and the Keel of another Man of War of the same Rate laid upon the Stocks.
A Correspondent, on reading the Accounts of the Reformed French retiring to Holland, &c. from the Persecutions of the Popish Clergy, observes, that there was a Time when Protestants of every Country thought England the safest Asylum from Papal Tyranny; but Tempora mutantur , or, in the Scripture Phrase, "the old Things are done away, and all Things are become new."
Thursday Evening a Woman of very genteel Appearance took a Boat, at Billingsgate, and when she came into the Middle of the Stream she jumped overboard, but was taken up by another Boat about fifty Yards lower down the River, having been prevented from sinking by her Clothes.
Thursday Night two Fellows rushed into Mrs. Benfon's Shop on Saffron Hill, clapped a Cloth before her Eyes, robbed her of about three Guineas, and escaped.
Thursday Night, as the Apprentice to Mr. Rowland, in Albemarle Street, was carrying a valuable Piece of Silk to a Customer's, he was knocked down in Dover Street by a Villain, who took the Silk from him, and made off down Hay Hill, and through Berkeley Square.
The underwritten Lines are copied from the original Will of the late Nathaniel Lloyd, Esq; who died a few Weeks ago, at his Seat at Twickenham, in Middlesex.
WHAT I am going to bequeath, When this frail Part submits to Death; But still I hope the Spark divine, With its congenial Stars shall shine. My good Executors fulfil, I pray ye, faithfully, my last Will, With first and second Codicil! And first, I give to dear Lord Hinton, At Twyford School now, not at Winton, One Hundred Guineas, for a Ring, Or some such Memorandum Thing; And truly much I should have blundered, Had I not given another Hundred To Vere, Earl Poulet's second Son, Who dearly loves a little Fun. Unto my Nephew Robert Longdon, Of whom none says he e'er has Wrong done, Though Civil Law he loves to huff, I give two Hundred Pounds in Cuff. One Hundred Pounds to my Niece Tudor, (With loving Eyes one Matthew view'd her) And to her Children, just among them, A Hundred more, and not to wrong them, In equal Shares I freely give it, Not doubting but they will receive it. To Sally Crouch, and Mary Lee, If they with Lady Poulet be, Because they round the Year did dwell In Twick'nam House, and serv'd full well, When Lord and Lady both did stray, Over the Hills and far away, The first ten Pounds, the other twenty, And, Girls, I hope that will content ye. In Seventeen Hundred Sixty Nine, This with my Hand I write and sign, The sixteenth Day of fair October, In merry Mood, but sound and sober, Past my threescore and fifteenth Year, With Spirits gay, and Conscience clear; Joyous and frolicksome, though old, And, like this Day, serene, but cold. To Foes well withing, and to Friends most kind, In perfect Charity with all Mankind.
Some Passages in the Letter to Lord Chatham, lately published which is said to be written by Lord Lyttleton.
"It seems you declared, that no true Protestant could support this Bill. No true Protestant, my Lord, can be a Persecutor; no true Protestant can harbour any such Idea as that of establishing Religion by Force. Is the Spaniard in Mexico to be an Example for a Protestant Legislator?
"Religious Liberty is nearer to the Heart and Conscience than Civil Liberty; for, why are Roman Catholics deemed Enemies to our Constitution? Not because they do not love Liberty (we owe Magna Charta to them) but because, without subverting the Constitution and the Law, the Romish Religion can never be restored.
"The Reformation was not the Work of Force. Science had begun to dawn, and to dispel Superstition. The Tyranny of Rome was become hateful, and her Authority contemptible, when that great Event took Place. The Desires and Opinions of the People coincided with the Humours of the King; and the Moment Parliament had established the Protestant Religion it became not the Voice only, but the Act, of the whole Nation. The Case of Canada is totally different; the People there adhere to their Religion, and did not surrender without a Stipulation and solemn Engagement for the free Exercise of it. Your Lordship was Minister when the Capitulation was granted by Sir Jeffery Amherst, and you found no Fault with that able General for that prudent and humane Concession. This Freedom was again ensured at the Peace, approved and confirmed by Parliament, nor did your Lordship, in your

long Display of Eloquence on that Occasion, once blame that Part of the Treaty. But you are now pleased to call the Measure atrocious, fallow, and inept , because it has secured to the Clergy their Property, and because it has substituted an Oath of Allegiance, instead of that of Supremacy, as required by the Act of Elizabeth. The best Distinction I know between Establishment and Toleration is, that the greater Number has a Right to the one, and the less to the other. The publick Maintenance of a Clergy is inherent to Establishment; at the Reformation, therefore, as much of the Church Estates as were thought necessary for its Support were transferred to the Protestant Church as by Law established. Surely then, when the free Exercise of the national Religion was given to the Canadian Nation, it could never be understood that they were to be deprived of their Clergy; and if not, a national Provision for that Clergy follows of Course.
It has also been asserted, that the Protestant Religion is rooted out of Canada by this Bill. The reverse is the Truth, for no Man who is or who may become a Protestant is to pay Tithes or any Church Dues, to the Romish Establishment; but the Money is still to be collected, in Order to constitute a Fund for the raising and supporting of a Protestant Church in Canada.
Though the Legislature has thought fit to repeal the Oath established by the Act of Elizabeth, and to substitute another Oath in the Place of it (which, in Truth, is no more than what has been frequently done before) yet the King's Supremacy is not on that Account in any Danger, as has been ignorantly and absurdly supposed. The Quebec Bill, instead of giving up his Majesty's Supremacy, asserts it as established by the Act of Elizabeth; that is, in all Cases, ecclesiastical as well as civil. No Ecclesiastical Officer, or Minister, can exercise in Canada any Authority or Jurisdiction that is not derived from the Crown; and if any Man shall hereafter presume to exercise therein any Powers derived from any foreign Authority or Jurisdiction whatsoever, or shall maliciously and advisedly endeavour to advance or support the Claims or Pretensions of the Pope, or of any foreign Prince or State, he will still be subject to the same Penalties to which he would have been liable if the Quebec Bill had never passed; and the Law of England has still in Store Punishments fully sufficient to deter the most zealous Catholick of Canada from the Commission of such an Offence.
Since then your Lordship has been so very severe in your Strictures on this Part of the Quebec Bill, let me again implore you to tell us what Plan you yourself would recommend. Would you now construe the free Exercise of Religion to be less than the Canadians thought it when they threw themselves upon your Faith? Would you now become their Persecutor? Or would you still suffer them to enjoy their Religion, with its consequential Property; not, however, by the constitutional Authority of an Act of Parliament, but by Virtue of an actual Exercise of dispensing Power in the Crown?
Letters from the Lower Rhine, dated July 7th, say: "The Vicar General of the City of Cologne having again, on the 20th Instant, made the Pope's Brief of Suppression known to the Jesuits, he told them that it was the Elector's Will that the said Brief should be strictly executed. Accordingly, on the same Day, their Schools were taken from them, and they were forbid to confess, and the Magistrates appointed a secular Commissary to occupy their College."
BOSTON, September 1.
A CORRESPONDENT says, the Province will never rest while one Man who has accepted any Office under the Sanction of the new Acts of Parliament is possessed of any one Post of Power or Profit in the Country, and until every one of them, by great Penitence, obtain Forgiveness, or leave America; and until all your Addressers to Hutchinson have, by humbling themselves, regained the Goodwill of the Country, and the City of Boston in particular, or else are removed off from the Continent.
A Proposal from different Parts of the Country. It is proposed that an Estimate should be formed, by indifferent People, of the Value of all the real Estates in Boston; that so, if the Estates in it should be sunk in their Value by the Port Bill's continuing to be enforced, or should otherwise be ruined by the Rage of our common Enemies, the Country might be able to form a Judgment of the Retribution that should be made to the Sufferers. This does Honour to the publick Virtue of our Country.
A Town Meeting was held, by Adjournment, at Faneuil Hall, on Tuesday last; and after Liberty was voted for the laying out a Brick Yard for the Employment of the Poor, the Meeting was adjourned to Tuesday Fortnight, in Order to receive the Reports of a Committee relative to filling up Part of the Town Dock.
September 5. It is said it was proposed in the Divan, last Wednesday, that the Inhabitants of this Town should be disarmed, and that some of the new-fangled Counsellors consented thereto; but, happily, a Majority was against it. The Report of this extraordinary Measure having been put in Execution by the Soldiers was propagated through the Country, with some other exaggerated Stories, and, by what we are told, if these Reports had not been soon contradicted, we should by this Time have had 40 or 50,000 Men from the Country (some of whom were on the March) appeared for our Relief.
The Selectmen of Wrentham have published a Notification, offering a Reward of 60 Dollars for the Discovery of the Persons who, about five Weeks past, broke open the Powder House there, and carried off six Half Barrels of Powder, about 1300 Flints, and a Quantity of Lead.
Governor Gage has at length laid his Hand on private Property, so far as to deny one Cask of Powder to be delivered out of the Powder House, on any Condition whatever.
On Saturday Afternoon four large Field Pieces were dragged by the Soldiers, and placed at the only Avenue by Land to this City.
Same Afternoon the Lively Frigate, of 20 Guns, came to her Moorings in the Ferry Way, between Boston and Charlestown.
We are told that 20 out of the 36 new appointed Counsellors (exclusive of Mr. Palmer, who is absent from the Province, and Mr. Woodbridge, who died before the Mandamus were received) have either refused to take the Oath, or have since resigned their Seats at that unconstitutional Board.
A Correspondent observes, that since the Act for Tarring and Feathering has been repealed there have been more Resignations, and other Concessions of Individuals to the Sense of THE BODY, than when that Act was in its greatest Force; a Proof that wiser Measures are adopted, or more efficacious Remedies applied.
Yesterday the Canso came as far up Gallows Bay as she could find Water, with Intent to command the Neck.
September 8. Last Monday the Selectmen of this Town waited on his Excellency Governor Gage, to acquaint him that the Inhabitants were much alarmed to find that he had ordered the breaking up the Ground near the Fortification, on the Neck, and requested of his Excellency that he would explain to them his Design in that extraordinary Movement, that they might thereby have it in their Power to quiet the Minds of the People; when his Excellency replied to the following Purpose: "That he had no Intention of stopping up the Avenue to the Town, or of obstructing the Inhabitants, or any of the Country People, coming in or going out of the Town, as usual; that he had taken his Measures, and that he was to protect his Majesty's Subjects, and his Majesty's Troops in his Town, and that he had no Intention of any Thing hostile against the Inhabitants."
Yesterday General Gage, accompanied by Lord Percy, the Admiral, and other Officers, critically surveyed the Mill Creek, which divided the Town.
By Letters from Connecticut, and by several credible Gentlemen arrived from thence, we are informed that there were not less than 40,000 Men in Motion, and under Arms, on their Way to Boston, on Saturday, Sunday, and Monday last, having heard a false Report that the Troops had fired upon Boston and killed several of the Inhabitants. Twelve Hundred arrived at Hartford from Farmington, and other Places forty Miles beyond Hartford, on Sunday last, on their Way to this Place, so rapidly did the News fly; but being informed, by Expresses, that it was a false Report, they returned home, declaring themselves ready, at a Minute's Warning, to arm again and fight for their Country and distressed Brethren of Boston.
SALEM, September 9. It is supposed that the Place of the Governor's Residence, in future, will be in Boston. Some of his House Furniture was removed from Danvers last Week.
PHILADELPHIA, September 14.
ON Monday last his Majesty's 18th Regiment (or Royal Irish) that has been quartered amongst us for several Years past, left this Place, in Order to proceed (as it is thought) to Boston. In Justice to its Officers, we cannot help observing, that they constantly preserved good Order and Peace among the Soldiers, and, by a careful Attention to act in such a Manner as not to give Umbrage to the Citizens, have acquired their warmest Esteem and Admiration.
Monday next the GENERAL ASSEMBLY of this Province meets here.
WILLIAMSBURG, September 29.
Extract of a Letter from London, dated July 2. THE Quebec Bill was framed by Lord Mansfield, Mr. Wedderburne, and the Advocate of Scotland, under the immediate Direction of Lord Bute. In that Province, 30,000 Roman Catholics are to be immediately embodied as a Militia, and kept in regular Training, to march immediately into any of the Protestant Colonies that dare to assert their Rights as Freemen, and Descendants of Englishmen. There is no Doubt now of a regular System being laid to subvert the Liberties, Religion, and Constitution of this Country, as well as that of America. This is now generally believed in England, and it is well known that the Attempt is only first made on America; therefore, we look up to you as our Saviours. You may rely on what I write respecting the Plans here."
The Elizabeth, Leitch, in seven Weeks from London, is arrived in Hampton Road; and the Bowman, Taylor, and Jenny, Kert, from Glasgow, are arrived in James River.
Deaths. Captain ROBERT NECKS, at Norfolk, who lately came Passenger from London with Captain Danby, and had been very ill for some Weeks before his Arrival. He was a Commander in the Virginia Trade for many Years, and few were more generally esteemed. The many Passengers that have crossed the Atlantic with him will always venerate his Memory, for that more than ordinary Kindness and Attention he paid to all under his Care, as well as for his constant good Humour and Gaiety. All his Acquaintances know him to have been an honest and worthy Man .
Mrs. CLEMENTINA RIND, Relict of the late Mr. William Rind, Printer to this Colony, whom she succeeded, after a tedious and painful Illness. She was a Lady of singular Merit, and universally esteemed.
THE Ship Jean, Captain Ritchie, lying at Broadway, will take in Tobacco on Freight for Glasgow, or Freight for 1 or 200 Hogheads may be exchanged. Apply to the Subscriber, in Peterburg. HENRY LOCHHEAD.
Who has for Sale a Quantity of Sherry WINE , imported in the said Vessel, which he will sell very reasonably.
WILLIAMSBURG, September 8, 1774.
THE Legatees of Mr. Joseph Scrivener, deceased, being very pressing to receive their respective Dividends of his Estate, it is expected that all Persons indebted thereto, by Bond, Book Debts, or for Goods purchased at the Sale, will make Payment by the ensuing October Court, as no longer Indulgence can or will be given by the Executors. WILLIAM TREBELL. ROBERT NICOLSON.
BLANDFORD, September 26, 1774.
THE Subscriber has missing a Package of Goods marked P.R. No 1. which was shipped in May last from Glasgow, on Board the Richmond, Captain Paterson, and supposed to be delivered, through Mistake, to some Gentleman on James River. It will be esteemed a Favour their forwarding it by the first Opportunity. (1) PATRICK RAMSAY.
IMPORTED in the Virginia, Captain Thompson, from Glasgow, last October, two Casks marked M L (the W in a Diamond and the L at the Top of it) No. 23 and 24, containing PORT WINE. As those two Packages have never come to Hand, it will be taken extremely kind of any Gentleman with whom they may be lodged, to forward them by the first Opportunity to Richmond; the Expenses will be cheerfully paid, and the Favour acknowledged, by THOMAS MITCHELL.
For SALE, A PARCEL of the celebrated Dr. NORRIS's DROPS, which will be sold at prime Cost and the Charges. For Terms, inquire of the Printer.
To be SOLD, A NEGRO FELLOW, middle aged, who is a very good Gardener, can take Care of Horses, and is a very useful Hand about a House. Also a Negro Woman who is a very good Washer and tolerable Ironer, and is otherwise a very useful Hand. They are both perfectly honest. For Terms inquire of the Printer.
To be SOLD, on Monday the 10th of October, at Louisa Courthouse, being Court Day, to the highest Bidder,
A TRACT of Land in said County, containing 414 Acres, whereon is a very good Dwelling-House, all other necessary Outhouses, Barns, &c. and a good Crop of Corn now growing on the Plantation; being the Tract of Land which Mr. George Barclay lately lived upon, and purchased of Mr. Clifton Rhodes. The Terms of Payment will be made known, on the Day of Sale, by (2) WILLIAM FRASER.
Just IMPORTED, and to be sold at John Carter's Store, in Williamsburg, the following Articles, viz.
BEST broad and narrow Cloths, Bath Coating, Halfthicks, Osna-brugs, Muns and Boys Hats, Womens white French Kid Gloves, best Jar Raisins and Currants, Preferred Figs, Sugared Almonds and Almonds in Shells, Barley Sugar, White and Brown Sugar Candy, Candied Orange Peel and Chips, Candied Barberrys, Candied Ginger, White and coloured Comfits, Pickled Samphire, Walnuts, Anchovies, and Capers, best Mangoes, French Olives, Mushrooms, Catchup, Mustard, White Ginger, Nutmegs, Mace, Cloves, Cinnamon, Pepper, Allspice, Saltpetre, Ground Verdigris, Prussian Blue, Vermilion, Dutch Pink, Umber, Linseed Oil, Alum, Brimstone, Rotten Stone, Indigo, Fig and Powder Blue, Starch, Copperas, Bottle Corks, Chocolate, Coffee, best Strasburg Snuff, a Variety of Needles, Marble Inkstands and Dolls, Artificial Fruit, such as Apples, Pears, Nectarines, Lemons, and Eggs, whole and cut into Quarters, Almonds, &c. &c. He also expects, in a few Weeks, a large Assortment of STAYS and GARDEN SEEDS, which will be sold for ready Money only.
Just IMPORTED from London, in the Bland, Captain Danby, and to be sold at my Shop in Williamsburg.
A FRESH Assortment of DRUGS and MEDICINES, also Pickles, Spices, Candies, Sallad Oil, Durham's Mustard, Jar Raisins, Currants, Saltpetre, &c. &c. (1) WILLIAM PASTEUR.
For CHARTER,
THE Ship Lonsdale, James Grayson Master, Burthen about 430 Hhds. British built, two Years old, a very good Vessel, well fitted and found. For Terms apply to Richard Squire Taylor, in King William County. (tf)
To be SOLD to the highest Bidder, on Thursday the 13th of October, at the late Dwelling-House of Thomas Simmons, deceased,
THE TRACT of LAND whereon the said Simmons formerly lived, containing near 100 Acres, on which are many valuable Improvements, together with a valuable Stock of HORSES, CATTLE, HOGS, and SHEEP, his HOUSEHOLD FURNITURE, and UTENSILS of HUSBANDRY. Twelve Months Credit will be allowed for all Sums above 25s. on giving Bond with approved Security to the Executors. (211)
To be SOLD for ready Money, on Monday the 10th of October, at King & Queen Courthouse, being Court Day, by Virtue of a Deed from William Meredith to the Subscriber,
THE Sloop NANCY, Burthen about 130 Hogheads of Tobacco, together with her Crew, consisting of four very likely NEGROES, among which is his valuable Skipper BOB. As much of the above will be sold as will satisfy the Debt due from the said Meredith to ROBERT BROOKE.
Pursuant to an Act of Assembly, will be sold at Smithfield, on Thursday the 3d of November next,
EIGHTEEN HUNDRED and SIXTY EIGHT Acres (the remaining Part of a Tract) of well timbered level Land in Isle of Wight County, belonging to Mr. James Burwell. This Land is laid off into seven Lots, is within eleven Miles of Smithfield, and five of a very fine Merchant Mill. Any Person who has Thoughts of purchasing may know the Terms by applying to Mr. James Burwell, in York County. (tf) LEWIS BURWELL. DUDLEY DIGGES. THOMAS NELSON, Junior. NATHANIEL BURWELL.
RUN away from the Subscriber, the 28th of August last, an Irish Servant Man named RICHARD COLLO-NEY, but has lately changed his Name to James O'Daniel, about five Feet eight or ten Inches high, well set, with brown Hair; had on, when he went away, a gray Duffel Jacket lined with striped Virginia Cloth, an old Felt Hat, brown Shirt, and Osna-brug Trousers. Whoever apprehends the said Runaway, and delivers him to me, in Caroline County, near Port Royal; or secures him so that I may get him again, shall have 40s. Reward, besides what the Law allows. (11) ROBERT RENNOlds.
RUN away from the Subscriber, in York County, in August last, a Negro Man Slave who calls himself STEPNEY BLUE, upwards of six Feet high, of a tawny Complexion, a black Spot in his Forehead, and has lost some of his fore Teeth. He was the Property of Mrs. Sarah Mingham, whom I have since married; and, as I have been informed, has a forged Pass with his Mistress's Name to it, giving him Leave to hire himself. He went away with a free Negro Woman named Esther Roberts, who I am told is his Wife, and I make no Doubt but he has (or will get) a Pass, in Order to pass as a free Man. Since he went off, he has been seen in Gloucester County. Any Person who will take up the said Slave, and secure him so that I get him again, shall have 20s. if taken within twenty Miles of this Place, 40s. if at a greater Distance, and 51. if out of the Colony, besides what the Law allows. (2) NATHAN YANCEY.
WILLIAMSBURG, September 29, 1774.
COMMITTED to the Publick Jail, on the 3d Instant, a Negro Man named CHARLES, who told me he belonged to Doctor Corbin Griffin of York, which I have repeatedly notified to the Doctor; but no Application having been made from him for the said Fellow, it is probable he has told me a Falstity. From his own Story, he was lately the Property of Mr. James Pride, from whom Doctor Griffin received him last February, and kept him in Possession till the July following, at which Time he eloped. He is about 25 Years old, five Feet nine Inches high, slim made, well dressed, and fit to act in the Capacity of a Waiting Man. His Owner is desired to take him away, and pay Charges. (tf) PETER PELHAM.
COMMITTED to Chesterfield Jail, two Negro Men, one of whom says his Name is PETER, and that he belongs to William Cooper. He is a tall Fellow, and much scarified in the Face with his Country Marks; has on a Virginia Cloth Waistcoat, striped and filled in with blue Yarn, a good Felt Hat, and other Clothes as usual for Plantation Negroes. The other says his Name is BRISTOL, and that he belongs to Josiah Ellington. He is a tall Fellow, smooth and full faced; his Clothing a Virginia Wove Thread and Cotton Shirt, and Virginia Cloth Jacket and Trousers. The Owners are desired to prove their Properties, pay Charges, and take them away. JAMES BALL, Jailer.
TAKEN up, in Amherst, a BLUE ROAN MARE eighteen or nineteen Years old, four Feet eight or nine Inches high, with a Switch Tail and roached Mane, and is a natural Trotter. Posted, and appraised to 31. ALEXANDER FITZPATRICK.
TAKEN up, in Amherst, a GRAY MARE four or five Years old, four Feet seven Inches high, with a hanging Mane and Switch Tail, has a Glass Eye, is a natural Pacer, and branded on the near Shoulder 3. Posted, and appraised to 91. (11) SAMUEL CROUCHER.
TAKEN up, in Amelia, a SORREL HORSE about four Feet ten Inches high, with a flaxen Mane, much scarred on each of his Sides, and branded on the near Shoulder C. Posted, and appraised to 91. (11) JAMES GUNN.
Wanted immediately,
ONE or two JOURNEYMEN TAILORS that understand their Business well. Such will meet with good Encouragement by applying to the Subscriber, in Williamsburg. (2) JAMES SLATE.
FOR SALE,
A TRACT of LAND in York County, about four Miles from Williamsburg, containing 250 Acres. It lies in about three Quarters of a Mile of York River, and about the same Distance from the Oyster Rocks, joins Colonel John Tabbs's, and Colonel Landon Carter's Land, and has as much Timber as will pay for it in one Year, by felling Wood to the Inhabitants of Williamsburg. It is under a Mortgage to Mr. William Graves of York County, for about 1901. which Sum must be paid him at the Acknowledgment; for the Remainder of the Money one or two Years Credit will be given, as can be agreed on, and Possession may be had at Christmas. For Terms apply to Captain William Gregory of Charles City, or the Subscriber in the same County, about three Miles from the Courthouse. (tf) AMBROSE JACKSON.
Wanted immediately,
A JOURNEYMAN SHOEMAKER that understands the Business well in all its Branches. Such a One, that can come well recommended, for an honest, industrious, sober Man, will meet with Encouragement to his Satisfaction, a good Seat of Work, and his Money paid every Saturday Night if he chooses it. Inquire for the Subscriber, near the upper Church, in Middlesex County. (tf) SAMUEL DANIEL.
To be SOLD to the highest Bidder, for ready Money, on Wednesday the 5th of October, at John Wilkinson's Plantation in New Kent,
TWENTY ONE likely NEGROES, consisting of Men, Women, Boys, and Girls, Stocks of CATTLE and HORSES, some HOUSEHOLD FURNITURE, and one RIDING CHAIR. They are sold by Virtue of Executions obtained in New Kent Court, by Messrs. John Eilbeck, and David Rofs & Co. against the Estate of the said Wilkinson. (11) JOSIAH HOLT, D. S.
To be SOLD to the highest Bidder, at Westbury, the Seat of the late Colonel Littlebury Cocke, in Charles City, on Thursday the 6th of October,
FIVE likely Virginia born SLAVES, Stocks of CATTLE, HORSES, HOGS, and SHEEP, belonging to the Estate of the said Littlebury Cocke. Six Months Credit will be allowed, on giving Bond, with approved Security, to carry Interest from the Date, if not punctually paid. (2) WILLIAM EDLOE. WILLIAM GREEN MUNFORD.
STRAYED from the Subscriber, at New- castle, the 12th of April last, a CHESTNUT SORREL MARE about thirteen Hands high, and branded on the near Buttock A. G. Also a small BAY HORSE with a roached Mane and Bob Tail, a small Blaze down his Face, but his Brand forgot. Any Person who takes up the said Strays, or either of them, and gives Notice to Captain Francis Smith near Hanover Courthouse, or to Mr. Robert Bumpass, shall have 25s. Reward for each. (2) JOHN SMITH.

POETS CORNER. A PROCLAMATION.
TO all the pretty Girls and Boys, That live in our Town, This Proclamation I address, In Hopes of great Renown. When GEORGE our King first fill'd his Throne, He thus increas'd his Fame, In Imita-tion of him, I mean to do the same. For you should think that I am like Unto our Sovereign King, And so indeed I really am, As like as any Thing. Therefore to you, my Subjects dear, These loving Lines I write, In Hopes that you will read the same, And therein take Delight. Would you be counted wise and great, Shun every Thing that's ill, And evermore submit yourselves, Obedient to my Will. Devoutly make God's sacred Law The standing Rule of Life, Avoid Deceit, Hypocrisy, Sedi-tion and Strife. Each Night, before you go to Bed, Be sure your Prayers to say, And thank the Lord for all the Good Of the preceding Day. And that you still may keep in Mind These Rules, which I lay down, I now command the School-masters And Ushers of the Town, That they, in their respective Schools, May ever watchful be, To train the Youth to my Commands, In strict Conformity. All naughty Boys you must correct, With Birch and Ferril too, For, spare the Rod, and spoil the Child, A Saying is most true. How can you hope that Heaven will bless The Saplings of this Land, If you to Refor-ma-tion Lend not your helping Hand. And furthermore, ye Children dear, I solemnly declare That if you will obedient be, My Favours you shall share. You shall have Cakes and Sugar Plumbs, And many Things beside; You shall be dress'd in Tunicks fine, On Cock horse for to ride. But if you should rebellious prove, For all that do amiss, I keep at Home a monstrous Rod, A Rod, well soak'd in P--- And now God prosper GEORGE, our King, And grant him long to live: From SALOM's Council Chamber, I These wise Instructions give.
WE the Subscribers, having for some Time past experienced very great inconvenience arising from the Uncertainty of the Time of our Meeting in Williamsburg, have now resolved, and are determined, for the future, to meet there every 25th Day of October and April; of which we give this publick Notice, that those who have Business to transact with us may know when to attend.
  JAMES LYLE.  NEIL JAMIESON.    ARCHIBALD RITCHIE.  JAMES GLASSFORD.    DANIEL M'CALLUM.  WILLS COWPER.    ROBERT DONALD.  MATTHEW PHIPPS.    JAMES FAIRLIE.  JOHN HAMILTON.    JAMES DONALD.  THOMAS SIMPSON.    ALEXANDER BAINE.  JOHN GILMOUR.    JOHN FISHER.  CHARLES GILMOUR.    WILLIAM MITCHELL.  JOHN HAY, & Co.    RICHARD ADAMS.  BENJAMIN BAILEY, & Co.    ALEXANDER BUCHANAN.  ANTHONY WARWICK.    ANDREW CHALMER.  INGLIS & LONG.    EDWARD JOHNSON.  FIELDING LEWIS.    NINIAN MINZIES.  ARCHIBALD CUNISON.    THOMAS MAIN.  HENRY MITCHELL.    ROBERT RUTHERFORD.  JAMES ROBISON.    ARCHIBALD M'CALL.  JAMES SOMERVILL.    M'CALL & SHEDDEN.  WILLIAM HENDERSON.    ADAM FLEMING.  JOHN GLASSELL.    THOMAS RUSSELL.  ANDREW CRAWFORD.    HECTOR ROSS.  RICHARD HANSON.    NEIL M'COULL.  JAMES INGRAM.    JOHN LINDSAY.  WILLIAM HARRISON.    JAMES GIBSON, & Co.  EDMUND PENDLETON, Jun.    JOHN JOHNSON.  JOHN BAIRD.    ROBERT BURTON.  THOMAS SHORE.    ARCHIBALD BRUCE.  PATRICK COUTTS.    ARCHIBALD GOVAN.  Moss ARMISTEAD.    ANDREW JOHNSTON, Jun.  ELIECKE, ROSS, & Co.    EDWARD BRISBANE.  JOHN TABB.    WILLIAM JOHNSON.  CORNELIUS CALVERT.    THOMAS YOUNGER.  ROBERT PLEASANTS, & Co.    SIMON FRASER.  THOMAS EVANS.    THOMAS HODGE.  EDWARD STABELLER.    JAMES M'DOWALL.  DAVID RUSSELL.    DAVID COCHRAN.  GEORGE PURDIE.  
Twenty Pounds Reward,
WHEREAS John Garlington of Northumberland County, a Skipper of a Schooner, hired of me last Year a Negro Man Slave named AARON, whom he has not returned, but reported he was drowned in Potomack River, but has never produced me any satisfactory Proof thereof; and whereas Garlington told me he was offered 150l. for the said Negro by a Gentleman on James River, I shall acknowledge it a particular Favour of the Gentleman that offered the above Price if he will write me, or Mr. Daniel Weisiger, Merchant, in Warwick, whether he knows any Thing of the said Negro, as I think it appears by Garlington's Behaviour that he is not drowned. The Fellow is about 30 Years old, five Feet eight Inches high, very black, well made, and has a long Scar on his Nose. If the Fellow is living, and such Intelligence given me that I get him, I will give 10l. or the above Reward, if brought to me in Lancaster County.
GEORGE NORRIS.
STRAYED from the Subscriber, the 10th of May last, a DARK BAY MARE about four Feet six Inches high, no Brand, mealy Nose, thick Mane and long Switch Tail, strong made, good Courage, paces, trots, and gallops. Any Person who will deliver her to Mr. David Anderson, Jun. Merchant, in Louisa (where she was bred) or to the Subscriber, shall have 30s. Reward.
MATTHEW ANDERSON, Junior.
TAKEN up, in Chesterfield, a BAY HORSE four Feet and a Half high, with a Star in his Forehead, and branded on the near Buttock S. Potted and appraised to 3l.
JOHN COX.
To be SOLD or RENTED (Preference will be given to the first)
A PLANTATION on Allen's Creek in Mecklenburg, within a Mile of Roanoke, consisting of about 120 Acres of Land, the Property of Messrs. Alexander Donald and Co. and whereon the Subscriber now lives. The Land of itself is valuable, exclusive of the Improvements, which are a good Dwelling-House, with other necessary Outhouses, and a large and convenient Storehouse, 32 by 44 Feet. There are about 20 Acres of the low Ground well set in Timothy and Clover, and notwithstanding this dry Summer, 15 Acres of it have yielded above 30,000 Weight of Hay, which, with about 300 Bushels of Oats in the Straw, some Indian Corn, 40 Head of Cattle, 50 Head of Sheep, and some Hogs, will be sold on reasonable Terms. The Purchaser may have Possession of the Premises as soon as he pleases, and long Credit (if required) will be allowed for the Land, on his giving Bond and Security. It is expected the Store will be continued, and of Course the Purchaser will have the Benefit of the Board of the Storekeepers, and besides the Situation of the Place (being on Taylor's Ferry Road) makes it well calculated for a Tavern. (ti) EBENEZER MACHARG.
CHARLES CITY, September 13, 1774.
RUN away from the Subscriber, about the first of August last, a Negro Man named PETER, by Trade a good House Carpenter, Cooper, Bricklayer, Plasterer and Whitewasher, and Gardener, about five Feet five or six Inches high, rather of a yellowish Complexion, and a little pitted with the Smallpox; his Clothing as usual for Crop Negroes, except a Cotton Coat instead of a Waistcoat, which is dyed of a dark brown Colour. He formerly belonged to Mr. Willis of Gloucester, and by him given to Mrs. Kennon of this County. He worked some Time at Kennon's Mine in Buckingham, and has lived on the Eastern Shore; and I am of Opinion he is lurking in one of those Neighbourhoods, or endeavouring to get to Mr. Kennon's in North Carolina, where he may be harboured by his Negroes. I will give 30s. to any Person who will deliver him to me, if taken in Charles City, 40s. if in any other County, and if out of the Province 5l. and I hereby forewarn all Masters of Vessels and others from harbouring or carrying him out of the Colony. (4ll) JOHN WEST.
TAKEN up, in Prince George, a well set WHITE HORSE, about twelve Years old, four Feet six Inches and a Half high, somewhat Flea bitten, hanging Mane and Switch Tail, not branded, but has some Scars on his off Buttock which appear to be the Bite of a Horse, and paces middling well. Potted, and appraised to 8l.
THOMAS WILD.
TAKEN up, in Bedford, a BAY HORSE about twelve Years old, four Feet six Inches high, with a hanging Mane and Switch Tail, has some Saddle Spots, branded on the near Shoulder E and on the near Buttock C, and had on a Bell of about 4s. Value. Potted, and appraised to 8l.
JOHN EWING.
TAKEN up, in Amelia, a BLACK HORSE near fourteen Hands high, seven or eight Years old, hanging Mane and Switch Tail, his near hind Foot partly white, branded on the near Shoulder W, and on the near Buttock M. Potted, and appraised to 8l.
SIMON WALTON.
TAKEN up, in Chesterfield, a small BRINDLED STEER, three Years old, some White under his Belly, Tail, and Legs, and marked with a Crop in the left Ear, and a Piece taken from the upper Side of the right. Potted, and appraised to 25s.
EDMUND LOGWOOD.
TAKEN up, in Dinwiddie, a GRAY MARE about nine Years old, four Feet one Inch high, with a hanging Mane and Switch Tail, is much Flea-bitten about the Head and Ears, paces naturally, but has no perceivable Brand. Potted, and appraised to 5l.
DUNCAN ROSE.
TAKEN up, in Charlotte, a BLACK HORSE about ten Years old, four Feet five Inches high, with a Switch Tail, a Star in his Forehead, some Saddle Spots near his Withers, had on a Bell, has but one Eye, and branded on the near Buttock H. Potted, and appraised to 5l.
THOMAS ROGERS.
TAKEN up, between Williamsburg and the College Landing, a very small BLACK MARE, appears to be old, and branded on the near Buttock T. Potted, and appraised to 40s.
RALPH CRUTCHFIELD.
TAKEN up, in Bedford, a BAY HORSE about three Years old, thirteen Hands one Inch high, with a small Star and Snip, Part of his near hind Foot white, dockt, and branded on the off Shoulder G. Potted, and appraised to 5l.
ROBERT EWING, Junior.
WOOLLENS.
THE Subscriber has just received, by the Kingston Packet, Captain Joseph Turner, from Hull, a large Assortment of coarse Woollens, viz. Six Quarter Cloths with necessary Trimmings, and other small Packages (of about 40l. Sterling Value each) consisting of coarse Duffils, Friezes, Fearnought, Halfticks, Bearskins, Kendal Cottons, Negro Blanketting, Bed Blankets, White Plaiding, Rugs of different Kinds, and other Goods which he will sell reasonable for Cash, or short Credit. (tf) JOHN STONEY.
He has also for Sale SEINE TWINE in small Packages, SHOT in Barrels, West India RUM, Flat and Square BAR IRON of a good Quality, and a Quantity of COALS in said Vessel. NORFOLK, September 20, 1774.
For CHARTER to any Part of Europe,
THE Ship Sparling, William Priestman Master, Burthen about 500 Hogheads, 13,000 Bushels, or 2500 Barrels. For Terms apply to the Subscribers, in Norfolk.
JOHN LAWRENCE, & Co.
Who have just imported in said Vessel, from Liverpool, Irish Linens, Osnabrugs, Kendal Cottons, Felt Hats, Sail Canvas, Mould and Dipped Candles, Hard Soap, Nails, Leaf Sugar, Fine Salt, Coals, Queen's China Plates in small Crates, Seine Twine, Bottled Beer, Cheese, &c. &c. They have also for Sale West India Rum, Old Spirits, Muscovado Sugar, Coffee, Ginger, Pimenta, Molasses, Madeira Wine, &c.
NEW YORK, July 27, 1774.
FIFTY POUNDS REWARD,
WHEREAS, on the 19th of June last past, a certain JOSEPH THORP was intrusted with a considerable Sum in Half Johanneses, of nine Pennyweight, to be delivered by him at Quebec, and as he has not yet made his Appearance there, with other suspicious Circumstances, it is apprehended he is gone off with the Money. He is a Native of England, about six Feet high, swarthy Complexion, very dark Keen Eyes, and pitted with the Smallpox, of a slender Make, stoops as he walks, talks rather slow, with some small Impediment in his Speech. He lived some Time in Boston, from whence he removed to Quebec, assuming the Character of a Merchant in both Places; he was also once in Trade in Newcastle, Virginia, and has a Brother settled there. It is believed he went on Board Captain John F. Prunyn, for Albany, and took with him a blue Casimir and a dark brown Cloth Suit of Clothes. Whoever secures the said Joseph Thorp, in any of his Majesty's Jails on this Continent, shall be entitled to ten per Cent. on the Sum recovered, and the above Reward of 50l. when convicted. Apply to Curson and Seton of New York, Joseph Wharton, Junior, of Philadelphia, Robert Christie of Baltimore, James Gibson and Co. Virginia, John Bondfield of Quebec, Melatiah Bourne or John Rowe of Boston. It is requested of those who may have seen this Joseph Thorp, since the 19th of June last past, or know any Thing of the Route he has taken, that they convey the most early Intelligence thereof to any of the above Persons, or Greenwood, Ritson, and Marsh, in Norfolk, or to Robert Pleasants and Co. at Four Mile Creek, Henrico County; the Favour will be gratefully acknowledged. All Masters of Vessels are forewarned from taking him off the Continent. (tf)
To be SOLD,
TRACT of LAND in Surry County, containing 450 Acres, known by the Name of Cabin Point, on which are a new Set of Brick Warehouses, which bring in about 70l. a Year, and a new Brick Merchant Mill completely fitted with two Water Wheels on a never-failing Stream, within 100 Feet of the Wharf. The Land is very good for Grain, and has about 40 Acres that may be made fine Meadow. This is one of the most improvable Estates in the Country. Half the Purchase Money to be paid in twelve Months, the other Half may lie for seven Years, on good Security being given, and punctual Payment of Interest. If the Land is not sold by Christmas, it will be rented out. (tf) BENJAMIN HARRISON.
To be SOLD, to the highest Bidder, at Amelia Court-house, on the 10th of January next,
TWENTY very likely SLAVES, to satisfy a Debt due to James and Robert Donald, & Co. Credit will be allowed till the 10th of October 1775. Bond and Security to be given to the said Company; and if Payment is not made to the Day, the Bonds to carry Interest from the Date. (7) WILLIAM WATSON.
To be RENTED annually, or for a Term of Years,
SWAN'S POINT FERRY and BOATS, with two good Dwelling-Houses, all necessary Outhouses, an exceeding fine Pasture, and Land sufficient to work four Hands, under a good Fence. For Terms apply to the Subscriber. (ti) JOHN HARTWELL COCKE.
FOR SALE,
TWO THOUSAND Acres of LAND, lying on the River Shenando, in the County of Frederick, eight Miles above Abby's Gap. One Third of the Purchase Money to be paid on the Day of Sale, and an extensive Credit will be given for the Remainder. Mr. James Brown will show the Land to any Person inclined to purchase, and I shall be on the Premises the 15th of November next. (tf) NATHANIEL BURWELL. ISLE OF WIGHT, July 19, 1774.
Pursuant to a Decree of the Honourable General Court, and by Letter of Attorney from Colonel George Mercer of Virginia, now in London, will be sold at publick Auction,
ABOUT 3500 ACRES of LAND in the County of Loudoun, near West's Ordinary, about twelve Miles from Leesburg, forty from Alexandria, and thirty five from Dumfries, on Potomack. This Land is well known, by the Description of Bull Run Mountains, and is very fertile. Also 6500 Acres on Shenando River, in the County of Frederick, opposite to Snicker's Ordinary, and binding on the River about seven Miles. As this Tract is Part of a Survey one of the first in that Part of the Colony, its good Quality cannot be questioned, it is well watered, will admit of two Mills on Land Streams, and others on the River; there are now on it six Plantations well improved for Cropping, 110 Slaves, and very large and choice Stocks of Horses (some of the Dray Breed) black Cattle, Hogs, and Sheep; which, together with the Crops of Corn and Wheat now growing (expected to be upwards of 2000 Barrels and 5000 Bushels) will be sold on the Premises, on the 24th Day of November next, or next fair Day. The Loudoun Lands will be sold at West's Ordinary, on the 21st Day of the same Month. Both Tracts will be laid off in Lots to suit every Kind of Purchaser, who may see them by applying to Mr. Francis Peyton, near the Loudoun Land, and Mr. William Dawton, who resides on the Shenando Tract. Among the Slaves are two good Blacksmiths, two Carpenters, and an exceeding trusty and skillful Wagoner. The aged black Cattle, and grown Hogs, will be fattened for Slaughter. Purchasers above 25l. will be allowed twelve Months Credit, on giving Bond and Security to the Subscribers, who will be prepared to make Conveyances. (20) JOHN TAYLOR. GEORGE WASHINGTON.
For LIVERPOOL,
THE Ship GREENWOOD, Mackey Reed Master, loads at Norfolk, has two Thirds of her Cargo already engaged, can take in 200 Hhds. of Tobacco on Liberty of Consignment. Any Gentlemen inclining to ship by her will please to send their Orders to Mr. Richard Taylor of Petersburg, Mr. Richard Squire Taylor in King William County, or to us at Norfolk. (tf) GREENWOOD, RITSON, & MARSH.
To be RENTED, from Year to Year, or for a Term of Years,
BELVOIR, the beautiful Seat of the Honourable George William Fairfax, Esq; lying upon Potomack River in Fairfax County, about fourteen Miles below Alexandria. The Mansion House is of Brick, two Stories high, with four convenient Rooms and a large Passage on the lower Floor, five Rooms and a Passage on the second, and a Servants Hall and Cellars below, convenient Offices, Stables, and Coach House adjoining, as also a large and well furnished Garden, stored with a great Variety of valuable Fruits, in good Order. Appertaining to the Tract on which these Houses stand, and which contains near 2000 Acres (surrounded in a Manner by navigable Water) are several valuable Fisheries, and a good Deal of cleared Land in different Parts, which may be let altogether, or separately, as shall be found most convenient. The Terms may be known of Colonel Washington, who lives near the Premises, or of me in Berkeley County. (tf) FRANCIS WILLIS, Junior. NORFOLK, April 21, 1774.
NOTICE is hereby given, that a Number
of Vessels will be wanted this Summer to bring about 6000 Tuns of STONE from Mr. Brooke's Quarry on Rappahannock, and land the same on Cape Henry, for the Lighthouse. Any Person, or Persons, inclined to engage in such Work, are desired to treat with Matthew Phipps, Paul Leyall, and Thomas Newton, Esqrs. The Directors of the Lighthouse will also be glad to purchase one or two FLAT BOTTOMED VESSELS, from 80 to 120 Tuns Burthen. (tf) BASSETT MOSELEY.
FOR SALE,
TRACT of LAND in Amelia County, containing 500 Acres, about four Miles below the Courthouse, it is remarkable fine Land for Grain, and will bring good Tobacco. The Plantation is in good Order for Cropping, sufficient to work six or eight Hands, with all necessary Houses. Any Person inclined to purchase may depend on having a Bargain, and know the Terms by applying to (tf) WILLIAM MARSHALL.
For SALE,
ABOUT twelve Thousand Acres of exceeding rich TOBACCO LAND, in Amherst County, whereon are several Plantations and Improvements sufficient to work forty or fifty Hands. There is on the said Land for Sale a very valuable GRIST MILL, lately built, with a Stone Dam and a Pair of good Cologne Millstones, which Mill has for two Years past got upwards of 100 Barrels of Toll Corn, and is situated on a never failing Stream. The Land will be shown by William Womack, who lives at one of the Plantations, and the Prices of the Land made known by him. One or two Years Credit will be allowed, Interest being paid for the second Year, and also for the first, if the Money is not paid agreeable to Contract. The Land is to be laid off and surveyed by Colonel William Cabell, at the Expense of the Purchaser. Deeds will be made upon Bond and approved Security being given, either to Colonel William Cabell, or the Subscriber. Six per Cent. Discount will be allowed for ready Money, or good Merchants Notes. If any Person will choose to exchange Lands in the lower Part of the Country, on or near some navigable River, that are good, it is more than probable we should agree. (tf) CARTER BRAXTON.