The Virginia gazette (Williamsburg [Va.]), 1774-01-27 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.
CONSTANTINOPLE, September 17.
THE Sublime Porte, although known to be of a pacifick Disposition, and although the Reports from the Turkish Armies are not very favourable, yet is immovably determined to carry on the War as long as possible, rather than comply with one single Article proposed by Russia concerning the Independency of the Crimea, or even to admit Russia to have any Part thereof in her Possession; for if this was allowed Russia would soon be Mistress of the Black Sea, in Consequence of which the Ottoman Throne in Constantinople would be as unguarded as that of Warsaw, if not as that of Corsica. Thus, Russia insists upon what the Porte will not comply with; so that another Campaign is resolved upon, which, by all Appearances, will finish the Struggle on one Side or the other.
That Part of the Russian Fleet which has for some Time been cruising near Syria is joined with the Vessels belongs to Cheik Daher, which terrifies the whole Neighbourhood, and hath put a total Stop to Commerce.
The Grand Seignior has established a College, in which the Greek Language, according to the Demosthenian Taste, is to be taught, as likewise the Aristotelian Philosophy, Ethics, and Politicks; and none are to have a Right to be invested with the Dignity of a Hospodar, or Walachian Prince, or any Station of Importance, unless he has taken up his Degree in that College after a due Examination, and such Degree is not to be purchased for Money, as is customary in Europe.
The Chevalier Tott has discovered a Mine of Coals which are in Quality as good as the English Coals, but not so glittering, for which Discovery he received a considerable Reward from the Divan.
PETERSBURG, October 8. The Man of War of eighty Guns built under the Direction of Admiral Knowles, and lately launched, is to be commanded by that Admiral, and sent to Cronstadt.
October 27. A Secret of much Importance has been just discovered to the Empress, which has thrown a Gloom over the whole Court, which before was all Gaiety, on Account of the Grand Duke's Marriage. Two Noblemen of the highest Distinction, and greatest Consequence in the State, have been arrested, and confined to their respective Houses, under a strong Guard of Soldiers; their Papers, &c. conveyed to the Imperial Palace. The Publick wait with Impatience for a Knowledge of their Crimes.
WARSAW, October 18. The Prussian Troops in Poland, except some Regiments that are to guard his Majesty's new Provinces, have received Orders to return into Brandenburg, but the Reason of their being recalled is kept a profound Secret.
By Letters from Podolia, we have received the disagreeable News that the Turkish Garrison of Oczakow had broke into the Polish and Russian Territories, and ruined and burnt every Thing they met with. This Body is composed of Turks, Tartars, and Greeks, and consists of near 20,000 Men.
The Austrian Troops in this Kingdom increase every Day, and we are informed they are soon to be augmented with 22,000 Men, but the Reason of this Augmentation is a Secret to us. As the Russian and Prussian Troops quit the Kingdom the Austrians come in their Place, to the great Grief of the Inhabitants; for the former kept the strictest Discipline, but the latter behave as if they were in an Enemy's Country, without the least Notice being taken thereof by their Officers.
October 20. A Report is current at this Moment, that the Peace between the Russians and Turks is signed.
The Delegates of the Diet will not resume their Deliberations till the 22d of November next. Many Writings are circulated here, which tend to prove that as soon as the Prerogatives of Royalty are taken from the King the whole Republick will fall to Nothing. Although Abundance of Projects are daily produced for the erecting a permanent Council, nevertheless there is no more Talk about the Matter than if it had never been proposed.
The Ministers of the three allied Courts have delivered a Declaration to our Ministry concerning the Delays of the Delegation, in which they declare, in the Name of their Courts, that their Sovereigns, tired out with the Disorders and Spirit of Independency that spring out of the Ruins of the State, will, with
Regret, be obliged to take the most effectual Measures to prove to the Nation that they are resolved to settle a republican Government, which in the End will prove happy, and secure Independence to, and Equality among, the Citizens. They add, that, with such salutary and disinterested Views, the three Courts do not hesitate to declare, that in Case the Spirit of Party should blind the Poles against all Evidence they would make Use of the Means which their Power has put into their Hands. This Declaration was dated the 24th of September, and signed by the Barons De Rewitki and De Stackelberg.
HAMBURG, October 22. We learn from Vienna, that Orders are sent to Hungary to raise 50,000 Recruits immediately, which surprises every Body; and that the High Chamber of the Imperial Polish Provinces is to be at Vienna, and Count Bergin is to preside in it, in the Character of High Chancellor.
November 6. The 13th Instant is the Day fixed for the Duchy of Holstein to be delivered up to the Danes and to come under their Government, and the Inhabitants to take the Oaths of Allegiance to his Danish Majesty, when a new Danish Regiment is to be raised out of the Natives of Holstein. We are curious to hear the Particulars of that Treaty, which will be made publick on the same Day that the Exchange takes Place.
All the Passengers lately arrived here from the King of Prussia's Dominions inform us that they are very busy in that Country in casting new Guns, Cannon Balls, &c. and in filling immense Magazines of Gunpowder and Lead. They are likewise raising great Numbers of Recruits, without any One being able to guess at the Reason of these Preparations, which has been continued now for more than two Years.
Our Correspondent at Stockholm says, it is most astonishing that an arbitrary Prince should have a Right to command our Taste as well as our Will and Actions. His Swedish Majesty, in Order to carry his Subjects back to their ancient Ignorance and Barbarism (for such Subjects make the Prince the happier) has just ordered to avoid the perpetual Change of Fashions in Dress, which is most disadvantageous to the Community in general, being only Advantages to a few Individuals; and to prevent the Evils which arise from Dress and Fashion, an entire particular national Dress is to be introduced over all Sweden, such as was worn 200 Years ago in that Country, which resembles the Oriental very much, and is highly becoming for a cold Climate. But the Society Pro Patria there have put a Price of 100 Ducats upon the Question, "Whether more Evils are occasioned in a Nation by the constant Change of Dress and Fashion, or by introducing a national Dress, suitable to the cold Climate, such as must of Course abolish all Extravagancies of Dress, and diminish Luxury, but must at the same Time be most disadvantageous to the Manufactories, and tend to a total Decay of Taste." The Answers must be sent to that Society before the 24th of January next.
AMSTERDAM, October 20. The circumstantial Account of what happened between the Russians and the Inhabitants of the Isle of Stanchio being the most shocking Affair ever heard of, even in the most barbarous Times, we have just received, by some of our Ships arrived from that Quarter, and is as follows. About the latter End of August last, it was discovered to the Russian Admiral, at the Isle of Pares, that three Turkish Men of War were near, and that they might be easily taken. Upon this Information, eight Russian Men of War, and three Frigates, with about seventy Transports, were despatched, under the Command of Admiral Spiritow, to attack them; but the Turkish Ships were informed of their Design, and made their Escape. One of the Ships, called the Geilla, took Shelter under the Guns of the Fortress of Bodorum, in the Island of Stanchio; but the Russians perceived her, and burnt her in the Harbour, before any Resistance could be made by the Garrison, and made off. In the Meantime, about 800 Russians landed upon the Island, opposite to the Fortress, where a brisk Skirmish happened between them and the Garrison; but no sooner was the News spread that the Russians had burnt a Turkish Man of War, on the other Side of the Fortress, but the whole Inhabitants assembled in a Body, and furiously fell upon the Russians, who, finding themselves overpowered, endeavoured to retreat to their Ships, when about 200, who could not get on Board, laid down their Arms, and surrendered themselves Prisoners of War; but the Inhabitants, notwithstanding they had surrendered,
inhumanly killed every one of them. As soon as this Affair was made known to the Russian Commander, he ordered the Whole of the Men on Board the Fleet to land upon the Island, Sword in Hand, and kill every Male, without Distinction of Nation, Age, or Station; which Order was cruelly executed, a few only escaping into the Woods. It is said that Admiral Spiritow is recalled, to answer for his Conduct in this Affair before the Empress.
The War between Russia and the Porte is become more vigorous than ever, and Orders have of late been issued at Petersburg to raise one Man out of every Hundred of all her Imperial Majesty's Subjects, which will turn out 100,000 Recruits; a large Fleet is ordered for the Mediterranean, and another is ordered to join the naval Forces in the Archipelago.
They write from Elsinour, that an English Vessel arrived there in four Days from London, on Board of which are thirty English Pilots, who are to conduct the Russian Fleet into the Mediterranean.
PARIS, October 29. There is hardly any Doubt but the Emperor designs a War against the Turks, for besides the Austrian Army on the Turkish Frontiers, amounting to near 120,000 Men, Orders are sent from Vienna to Transylvania, Croatia, Serbia, &c. to raise an entire new Army, which is to be commanded by General Preiss, and cantoned along the Frontiers. The Fortresses are to be repaired, and the General has received Orders to form a Line with his Troops from Transylvania to Temeswaer, and to take Possession of the little Island of Reitzenstadt, and the Fortress of Kasnowitz. The famous General Nadafti arrived at the Austrian Army lately, to examine the Fortifications, and to take the chief Command of all the Troops upon him.
It is said that the Turkish Commander of Belgrade has sent a Messenger to the Austrian Commander, inquiring the Reason of all these Preparations and extraordinary Motions, but received for Answer, "That as the Turkish Army had met with Success this Campaign, and are in high Spirits, perhaps (though contrary to the Intention of their chief Officers) they may fall into the Imperial Dominions, and insult his Imperial Majesty's Subjects, and therefore the Emperor had taken this Method to protect them; but whether such Preparations are necessary for that Purpose, we leave every One to judge."
We are likewise informed, that Reis Effendi, who is so remarkable for his uncommon Humanity and pacifick Disposition, has sent a most moving Letter to Count Romanzow, praying that his Excellency would endeavour to bring about another Congress, and not suffer a new Campaign to be opened. He likewise begs of her Imperial Majesty, not to sacrifice the best and most faithful of her Subjects to her insatiable Ambition, and not to boast of her numerous Armies, and the many Victories they have gained; for notwithstanding the Efforts of the Ottoman Troops have not been attended with Success in this War, yet they have now learned the Art of War, and exact military Discipline, so that future Victories will be uncertain, and one successful Campaign to the Ottomans will regain all they have lost. He concludes, by testifying to the whole World that the Sublime Porte is much inclined to a Peace, upon reasonable Terms; and that he really wishes the Empress may be of the same Disposition, &c. This Letter Count Romanzow has sent to the Court of Petersburg.
LONDON, November 2.
THE King of Prussia, though he does not choose to declare himself openly the Enemy of Great Britain, is taking every Method to irritate us to a Declaration of War against him. He is barring every Avenue of Commerce between the two Nations, oppressing the English Merchants within his Dominions, and threatening his own Subjects if they offered us any Encouragement. This haughty ambitious Plunderer is almost ripe for Chastisement.
Extract of a Letter from Warsaw.
"The King of Poland, wearied out with the Cares and Anxieties attending upon his Crown, and satisfied he cannot wear it for the Service of his Country, has lately thought seriously of abdicating the Throne of that Kingdom, and retiring to spend the Remainder of his Days in the Peace and Security of a private Life. It is confidently reported, that he hinted his Intention to an Englishman of Fashion, whose Curiosity had led him to the Court of Warsaw; and added, he proposed to make London the Place of his future Residence."

The young Gentleman then informed his Majesty to keep as far as he could out of the Reach of the City, as he would find there as many Enemies to an abdicating King as he found in Poland to the Monarch on the Throne; but in the West, said he, your Majesty will be safe, respected and adored, for the present Ministry in that Country are religiously attached to an abdicating King."
Advice is just received that three Sail of French Men of War of the Line are wrecked in a Gale of Wind on the Coast of Barbary, and two Thirds of their Crews perished.
It is said the Honourable Thomas Harley will be appointed to a principal Post in Administration, which will soon be vacated, in Order to make Room for him.
The Courts of Vienna and Berlin are resolved to use their utmost Influence this Winter to bring about a Peace with the Turks and Russians, and to settle the Affairs of Poland.
Letters from the Continent mention, that a Treaty of Commerce is now in Agitation between the Province of Zealand and his Prussian Majesty, which has given great Umbrage at the Hague.
A Difference of Opinion arose last Week between the Lords North and Sandwich, which prevented a most extraordinary spirited Message being sent to the Court of Madrid, which in all Probability would have occasioned an immediate Declaration of War against Spain. This, we hear, was what Sandwich thought England must do, if she preserved her Honour; but the tardy North desired a few Days might be spent in considering the Matter, which he was indulged in. However, it is almost beyond a Doubt that it will take Place in a few Weeks.
A Gentleman at Henley, writing to his Friend in London, says: "I cannot help taking Notice to you that I dined yesterday with a Gentleman who said he had not travelled so little as 10,000 Miles to find the right Heir to Mr. Selby's Estate, and had at last discovered him to be a Person in Aylesbury Jail for Debt; he had just then released him, and put him in Possession of it." [ An Estate of 4000 l. a Year must prove a very sprightly Alternative for a scurvy Durance at Aylesbury ]
They write from Petersburg, that a considerable Number of opulent Jews have petitioned her Imperial Majesty for an exclusive Charter to form themselves into a Company for carrying on a Trade by Land, by the Way of Tartary, to China and the Indies.
By the late Improvements made by the Abbe de Terray in the French Finances, it is said they amount to 380 Millions per Annum; a Sum little short of fourteen Millions English Currency, and much superior to the ordinary Revenues of any Prince in Christendom, or perhaps in the Universe.
A few Days ago a Country Gentleman, possessed of a small Estate, being quite tired of having attended at the Levee of a certain great Man, for several Years, to no Purpose, waited on his Lordship to let him know he would give him no farther Trouble, as he had just got a Place. My Lord shook him by the Hand, and told him he was extremely glad of his Success, greatly apologizing for not having had it in his Power to reward him according to his Merit; at the same Time inquiring what Preferment he had got, on which he replied, in the York Machine, my Lord; I secured it yesterday, and shall set off to-morrow Morning, your Lordship having entirely cured me of Ambition.
The Dutch are at this Time building four capital Ships of the Line, at one of their Ports, for the Service of France.
Extract of a Letter from Portsmouth, October 19. "The Princess Royal, a fine 90 Gun Ship, was launched yesterday, amidst a Concurrence of People from all Parts of the Neighbourhood. His Royal Highness the Duke of Gloucester came from his Summer Seat at Lindhurst to see it, and was highly pleased. Stages were erected for the genteel Part of the Spectators, and at the Head of the Ship was a large Bowl, made of Lead, which contained near forty Gallons of Punch, to treat the Workmen and Spectators. Nothing could go off more smooth and easy, to the great Joy of the Builder; and she fits very well on the Water. At her Head is the Princess Royal, seated in a Chair, supported on the Shoulders of Neptune and Amphitrite, who rides on Dolphins. Many Tritons are playing about them. The Princess has a Cornucopia in her right Hand, and in her left a Laurel Branch. Her Stern is decorated with Pictures of their Majesties, emblematical Figures, and Trophies. She was built on the same Slip with the Britannia (the first First Rate ever built on a Slip) first and second Rates having been used to be built in Docks."
"Two other Ships are now building in this Yard, the Lion of 74, and the Berwick of 60 Guns."
"The Keel of the Warrior, of 74 Guns, is to be laid in a few Days, on the Slip the Princess Royal was launched from."
Sir Robert Ladbroke has by his Will bequeathed 5000 l. to each of his married Daughters, with whom he gave a Portion of 10,000 l. and 15,000 l. to each of his unmarried Daughters. The additional 5000 l. to each is secured to their private and peculiar Use, without being liable to any Coverture. To his Son George, who failed a short Time since to the Indies, he has bequeathed three Guineas a Week during Life, to be paid only to his own Receipt. He has left 200 l. to each of his Nephews and Nieces; and the Residue of his Estate, supposed to amount to a very considerable Sum, to his eldest Son Robert.
Extract of a Letter from Petersburg, September 28. "Advices are just arrived here from the Crimea of a very signal Victory gained by the Russian Troops there over the combined Armies of the rebellious Russians, Cossacks, &c. and the Turks and Tartars, under the Command of Dules Guery. The Turks, &c. received a total Defeat, having 8000 Men killed and wounded, 5000 taken Prisoners, with all the Cannon, Ammunition, Tents, &c. The Remains of the defeated Army fled with the utmost Precipitation towards Ockzakow, and the victorious Russians entered Bachchisarai in Triumph, which Place they are now fortifying in the strongest Manner."
Three Vessels which sailed from the Orkneys, the Beginning of October, with 775 Emigrants from Murray, Ross, Sutherland, and Caithness, for New York, having met with a Storm, one of them, with the People from Murray, put into Stromness in a distressed Condition, and resolved to return home; the two others, it was feared, were lost.
November 9. The Bedford Party seems daily to gain Ground. This, says a Correspondent, portends no Good to the Premier.
By the latest Accounts from Petersburg, it appears that the Empress, heartily tired of the State of Slavery she finds herself in, from her Connections with the two German Courts, is resolved to terminate her Disputes amicably with the Porte.
They write from Brest, that nine Men of War are ordered to be equipped in all Haste at Brest, and several Captains have received Orders to repair thither forthwith.
In a Conversation, a few Days since, between Charles Fox and a great Man in Administration, about imposing new Taxes next Session of Parliament, the former was heard to say, "Let us fleece the Wool, the Wool will grow again, for the Flocks are made for the Use of the Shepherds. The Princess Royal Ship of War does not carry her ninety Guns on two Decks, as mentioned in some of the Papers, but on three Decks. The Mistake arose from her not having any Guns on her Quarter Deck, which, by a new Method, is avoided. The three Decks that have been lately built are made longer, and have two Ports more on each Deck, than the old Ones. It is reckoned a great Improvement, as it takes off the Weight from aloft, and makes them lie more snug on the Water."
The Duke of Grafton, it is said, ever since he has been out of Office, has applied very closely to the Study of the English Laws and Government, and that now he is a most accomplished Statesman; therefore, whenever Lord North resigns, he is to succeed him, and will give the Publick Reason to say very different Things of him from what they have hitherto said. However strange this may appear, we are told it is Fact.
The Tea Tree is become so far naturalized to our Climate, that, at this Time, there is one of them in full Bloom in the open Ground at Mr. Gordon's Nursery at Mile End.
They write from Madrid, that a Discovery has been made of a Set of Coiners in South America, who have counterfeited the Species of that Country to the Amount of six or eight Millions. Several Jesuits are found among them.
Several Accounts from Spain inform that there was never greater Expedition made in the several Seaports of that Kingdom, in building new Ships, and repairing the old Ones, than at present.
The Prussian Ambassador not meeting with such a satisfactory Reception, in a late Conference, as he expected, thought fit to throw out a Menace of returning home abruptly; to which he was answered, with great Indifference, "Sir, you have certainly a Right to go when you please, but remember, when once you have set out, you are not to return again."
The favourite Son (Mr. Charles Fox) of an almost superannuated Nobleman (Lord Holland) is expected to take a new Lead in the next Session of Parliament. The Story circulated is this: Lord Gower, who has long looked with wishing Eyes on the first Department in the Treasury, and was not long ago defeated in an Attempt to obtain it, made some Overtures to this young Gentleman about the Office of Chancellor of the Exchequer, which he desired him to consider of, as he might possibly in a short Time meet with an Offer of that Kind; upon which Mr. Fox, it is said, replied, that as he was not used to waste Time in considering, when the Interest of his Country was at Stake, whenever his Lordship could succeed in placing himself at the Head of that Board, he was ready to accept the Chancellorship of the Exchequer.
Our Letters from various foreign Parts inform us, that the Jesuits have every Where puzzled their Prosecutors and Scrutators. It appears, that the chief Object which incited the Branches of the Bourbon Family to insist on the Pope's Abolition of the Jesuitical Society was in Order to finger their Treasures; and, now that the Point is come to the Trial, there is actually little Treasure to be found. Some begin to suspect, that they were not so rich as was imagined; others, that they have concealed it; and some, perhaps with better Judgment, that the Pope procrastinated their Suppression on Purpose to give them Time to secure their Property. If this be true, the Pope, like a true Friend, never forsook them, while he could by any Means help it.
Orders are given from the Admiralty Office for victualling four Men of War of the Line at Plymouth, for six Months.
A Plan is said to have been lately suggested for entirely abolishing the Vice Admiralty Courts in America, and to establish in the Room thereof Offices for the Transaction of naval Business upon a more general Plan.
November 13. It is confidently said, at the west End of the Town, that the Bishop of Osnaburg, when of Age, is to retire at his bishoprick, and that either this Prince, or the next Brother (though all believe the former) will be made Elector of Hanover; which Scheme has been long in Contemplation with the Ministry, since it is well known that it is a great Encumbrance to the Crown, and has been ever made the Pretext of War with our Enemies.
The King of Prussia has very lately revived the old Claim on the Court of London, of the Money due to him at the Conclusion of the last Peace, and in such Terms that there is not the least Doubt of his Intentions of appearing before Hanover next Spring at the Head of his Troops; which when a certain patriotic Nobleman heard, he said, he did not wonder at it, but was rather surprised he had not done it long ago, as he could not be unacquainted with his Minister at our Court with the convulsed Situation of our Affairs, and the Feebleness of our Ministry.
Lord Shelburne has been more in Town this Summer than almost any other Nobleman, which has caused much Speculation at St. James's. The above Nobleman, it is said, has refused joining some others in a Party to oppose Administration the ensuing Session; having for some Time past enjoyed the Sweets of Security, and finding it so, differently agreeable from what he experienced by employing himself otherwise, that it is thought he will endeavour to enjoy his present Happiness for the Remainder of his Life. This proves him to be, what the fashionable Part of the World always thought him, a truly noble and amiable Man.
It was yesterday currently reported, that a Challenge has been given and accepted of between a certain Patriot (Mr. Wilkes) and a late Magistrate (Mr. Townsend) owing to the latter calling the former to an Account for the Abuse he had thrown upon him during his Magistracy. We hear, from credible Authority, that there will be a serious Contest for the vacant Representative's Seat for London. A late India Director is publicly mentioned as an Opponent to the present Mayor, to succeed Sir Robert Ladbroke, as Member of Parliament for this City.
A Discovery has lately been made at Paris of a great Number of Manuscript Papers of M. de Fenelon, Archbishop of Cambray. This valuable Acquisition consists of a Translation of six Books of Homer's Odyssey, a Translation of the chief Orations of Demosthenes, great Numbers of Letters, Themes given to the Duke of Burgundy, corrected with his own Hand, and Telemaachus, with several Additions and Notes that never appeared before.
A Gentleman of the Law, in Clement's Inn, has undertaken, for a Wager of 500 l. to walk from York to London, and back again, in the Space of six Days; the Distance is 403 Miles. Several Thousand Pounds are betted, and he sets out on this extraordinary Journey on Monday Morning next.
An additional Gold Furnace has lately been put up in the Tower, so that there are now three Furnaces at Work, which melt three Courses each; that is, Gold sufficient for the Coinage of 27,000 Guineas daily.
Letters from Vienna mention that a Number of Christian Slaves, redeemed in the Years 1771, 1772, and 1773, from Africa, Asia, and European Turkey, by the Fathers of the Trinity, made their Entry into that City on Sunday the 24th ult. They were in Number eighty Men and two Women, and after traversing the principal Streets they were conducted to an Hospital in the Suburbs which had been prepared for their Reception.
A few Days since a fair Venus, who had greatly involved herself in Debt, and was afraid of an Arrest, went to a Publick House not far from Wapping, where she found a smart young Sailor, a native of Ireland, to whom she made her Addresses. The Bargain was agreed on for a Suit of new Clothes to go Church in, five Guineas, and all the matrimonial Expense. A License was immediately taken out, and they were accordingly married. Jack enjoyed four Nights of his sweet Dulcinea, when he went on Board, and then took an everlasting Farewell; and the Lady then told her Creditors, they might sue her Husband for Payment.
November 15. The Archbishop of Lemberg, Prince Primate of Poland, who lately died at Warsaw, has left his whole Fortune, which is very considerable, to his Polish Majesty.
The Lords of the Admiralty, it is said, have given Orders for sixteen Sail of the Line, completely manned and victualled, to be ready to rendezvous at Spithead the 10th of February next.
They write from Lisbon, that a Portuguese Man of War arrived lately in the Tagus, from a Cruise, which had, about sixteen Leagues off the Rock, met an Algerine Zebec, mounting twenty Guns. They both at first hoisted English Colours, but upon drawing nearer each other, struck them, and displayed their proper Ones; upon which the Portuguese Man of War ran out her lower Tier, and poured a Broadside into the Algerine, which sunk her, and most of the Crew perished.
On Tuesday Morning last a Duel, with Sword and Pistol, was fought at the Back of Montague House between two City Barbers. A Difference of Opinion happening between them, the Evening before, they agreed to determine it in this Manner. Being met, it was proposed that they should turn Back to Back, walk ten Paces, then turn and fire. One of them, however, walked only five Paces, when he fired, and wounded the other in the left Arm, who immediately turned round, and after firing his Pistol without Effect, ran up to his Antagonist, and used his Fist so dexterously that he closed his Eyes, while his Sword slept peaceably in its Scabbard. One of those Heroes lives in St. Martin's le Grand. It is worthy of Remark, that one of them was armed with a broad the other with a small Sword.
A Message to the following Effect is said to be in Contemplation: "His Majesty finds it necessary to observe how great License is taken in publishing false and scandalous Libels, such as are a Reproach to any
"Government. This Evil seems to be too strong for the Laws now in Force. It is therefore recommended to you to find a Remedy equal to the Mischief."
Sir Charles Knowles, it is said, will return the ensuing Spring, should a Peace, as is generally expected, take Place between the Turks and Russians.
Saturday Morning a private Board was held at Lord Sandwich's House in the Admiralty, at the breaking up of which a Packet was sent off to Falmouth, to be forwarded with all Speed to the British Admiral in the Mediterranean.
They write from Dublin, that an Act is intended to be passed this Session, laying a heavy Penalty on Irish Artificers going into foreign Service, and on those who engage them.
In Consequence of Orders from the War Office, for the augmenting his Majesty's Marines to 56 Men in each Company, several Recruiting Parties are gone into different Parts of the Country for that Purpose.
A Gentleman lately arrived from Morlaix, in France, informs us, that while he was at that Place he conversed with several English Ship Carpenters, every One of whom told him they had double Wages paid them to what they had received when in the English Dockyards, and that there was a great Demand for Ship Carpenters. Such Encouragement given by the Enemies of Great Britain ought to awaken the Attention of those in Power.
Extract of a Letter from Portsmouth, November 11. "Sir Edward Hughes is arrived here from London, and will sail for the East Indies the first fair Wind, in the Salisbury of fifty Guns, with the Seahorse of ten Guns. They have been ready some Time. We have had the longest Course of westerly Winds, and the most Rain, that has been remembered for many Years."
November 16. A Correspondent says, that if the actual State of the Nation be but considered with a dispassionate Eye, and with an equal Dismal of Court Servility and Party Spirit, the following Conclusion can hardly fail of being drawn, viz. that the British Annals do not afford a Conjecture more pregnant than the present One with an indispensable Necessity for Recourse to Parliament, if that Body is not reduced to a mere shadowy unsubstantial Form. The critical Situation of Things on the Continent, the Attention due to Ireland, the tender Consideration of our Colonies, the Fluctuating of the publick Credit, the Danger of Depopulation, a Reinspection into a Castle in the Air, which, for a Stronghold of the Mogul Empire, has been built in that Field of Wind, with a Number of other Points remaining to be adjusted and settled for the Safety and Satisfaction of the People of this Country, all these, one would naturally imagine, form such a Mass of parliamentary Business, and so brookless of Delay, as must fix on an Adjournment, at this Time, a Note of even a treasonable Negligence or Omission. But no! however manifestly there be an Accumulation of Affairs, great and important enough to command an uninterrupted Session to commence from this Instant, and continue to Midsummer, that is to say, if a due Digestion of them was to take Place, instead of the usual crude, superficial, slovenly Manner of treating them, there are who dare talk of putting off the Session to a distant Day as of a Measure long resolved on. As such a Measure, then, is flagrantly oppoſite to every Idea of common Justice to the People, and consequently to sound Policy, the Odds are a Thousand to one that the Report is true. Be it so. There is one Consolation, however, remains to this unfortunate Country, that since the Activity of a dead Majority is either destroyed by an effeminate Indolence, a rotten Acquiescence, or engrossed by selfishness, and by Objects full as foreign to this Nation as to that of Monopotapa, a Parliament not sitting, nor doing any Things, must be still preferable to a Parliament that, when sitting, is for ever doing Something infinitely worse than Nothing.
A Privy Council is to meet to-morrow at St. James's, for limiting the farther Time for the Prorogation of Parliament, after which it is expected a Proclamation will be issued out.
The Lively Man of War, from Boston, is arrived at Portsmouth.
CHARLESTOWN, December 24.
ON Wednesday the 11th of this Month the Ship London, Alexander Curling Master, arrived in this Port from London, having on Board 257 Casks of Tea, shipped by the Honourable the East India Company, and consigned, for Sale, to some Merchants here; who, finding that their receiving the said Consignment would be generally disagreeable to the Inhabitants, declined having any Thing to do with it. And on Wednesday last, when the Time limited by Act of Parliament for paying the Duty expired, the Collector of his Majesty's Customs, agreeable to the Laws in that Case made, landed the said Tea, and lodged the same in his Majesty's Warehouse, where it now remains, the Duty thereon not having been paid.
A Schooner named the Dove, from Africa, with about 100 Negroes on Board, for St. Augustine, was lost in the Night of the 18th of last Month on the Coast of East Florida. The Master, two Mariners, and about eighty of the Negroes, were drowned; the others swam ashore. The Schooner went immediately to Pieces.
On the 2d of this Month the Brigantine East Florida Merchant, Captain Lothouse, from London, with a valuable Cargo for St. Augustine, after being at Anchor about a Fortnight off St. Augustine Bar, attempted to get over; but it failing a dead Calm, the Vessel struck upon the Bar, where she lay, before she went to Pieces, for about ten Days, during which Time about two Thirds of the Cargo was got ashore, but considerably damaged. Happily, none of the People were lost.
We are informed, from St. Augustine, that two Launches are immediately to be built by Government for the Purpose of lightening Vessels off the Bar, and for towing them into the Harbour; a Precaution always taken by the Spaniards, while St. Augustine was in their Possession.
We are likewise informed, from St. Augustine, that a Dockyard is to be established at St. Mary's, in East Florida, for the Use of his Majesty's Navy in the southern District of North America.
On Wednesday last the new Theatre in this Town was opened with Mr. Kelly's Word to the Wife, and High Life below Stairs, with an occasional Prologue and Epilogue spoken by Mr. Hallam and Mrs. Douglass. The Performance gave universal Satisfaction; Mr. Hallam in particular, in Captain Downer, displayed his extraordinary theatrical Talents, in a most spirited Manner. Indeed, all the Performers did great Justice to their Characters; but that Gentleman's superior Abilities were so remarkably striking, that we could not pass them over unnoticed. The House is elegantly finished, and supposed, for the Size, to be the most commodious on the Continent. The Scenes, which are new, and well designed, the Dresses, the Music, and, what had a very pleasing Effect, the Disposition of the Lights, all contributed to the Satisfaction of the Audience, who expressed the highest Approbation of their Entertainment.
NEWPORT, December 20.
WE can assure the Publick, that a Lady in this Town, of affluent Circumstances, and equal to any One in it for good Sense, Politeness, and Consequence, last Week came to the Resolution to have no India Tea drank in her Family until the Duty upon that Article is taken off; an Example well worthy the Imitation of every Individual in the Colony, and throughout the Continent.
It is a Matter of Fact, that the People in Boston are leaving off drinking India Tea very fast.
Last Monday was killed, at the Country Seat of Abraham Redwood, Esq; on this Island, a Hog two Years and a Half old, which, when dressed, weighed 512 Pounds.
NEW YORK, January 3.
WE hear from Charlestown, South Carolina, that the sending back the Tea Ship having been, by Accident or Design, delayed till the Expiration of the twenty Days, after which, by the Act, the Duties are to become payable, the Tea was then seized by the Customhouse Officers, and landed in their Custody. We have no circumstantial Account of the Affair, nor by what Means the patriotic Designs which by our last Accounts were so warmly and unanimously pursued by the Carolinians were defeated, nor what is likely to be the Consequences of landing the Tea. It has been reported, that a Difference had arisen between the Merchants and the Planters; and that, through private Animosity, publick Duty was neglected. It is, however, conjectured that both Parties will recover their Senses before it be too late, and unite in Support of the Rights and Liberties of their Country. If the Tea should be destroyed in the Hands of the Customhouse Officers, they will doubtless be liable both for the Duties and Value of the Tea, which otherwise would have gone back safe to the Owners; and, in such a difficult Case, their Officialness was inexcusable, not only as it may prove the sole Cause of the Loss of the Tea, but as it may call the Authority of the Customhouse itself, Courts of Admiralty, Post Office, &c. into Question. While they operate merely as Regulators of Trade, for publick Convenience, People are not disposed to examine their Foundations; but as soon as they begin to appear as Instruments of Tyranny, to deprive the Colonies of their Rights, it is Time to consider the Authority on which they are established among us.

January 6. This Day the General Assembly will meet, for the Despatch of the publick Business of this Province. The Ship Nancy, Captain Lockyer, with Tea on Board, on Account of the Honourable the East India Company, failed the same Day with the Ship Dutchess of Gordon.
By Captain Mason, who arrived here on Saturday last, in six Days from Charles Town, we are informed that Captain Curling having entered his Ship, loaded with Dry Goods, and the Honourable the East India Company's Tea, and proceeding to land the former, the Officers of his Majesty's Customs seized the Vessel; but the Collector, like a Gentleman of true Sensibility, promised the Inhabitants that he would not sell any of the Tea until he received Advice and Instructions concerning it from London.
After all the Investigations and Researches into the Occasion of the Fire last Wednesday, at Fort George, it has been impossible to account for its Rise. It broke out in the Council Chamber; and all the Partitions in the House being of Wood, the Destruction became general in an Instant. The Loss sustained in this melancholy Scene, in Cash, Plate, and Jewels, is 7000. Sterling at least, over and above many publick and all the Governor's private Papers; for Nothing escaped the Flames, save some Kitchen Furniture. One Life was lost, a Servant Girl about sixteen Years old, named Elizabeth Gafrett; who, after being awaked, and apprised of her Danger, loitered behind to secure some Covering before she attempted an Escape; but unhappily she was prevented by suffocating Columns of Smoke, which were rapidly followed by the inexorable Fire. Mrs. Paterson threw Miss Tryon out of a Window, and presently followed herself. A Soldier (named Stone) of the Royal Welch Fusileers, caught them. The latter received no Injury; and the former, though considerably bruised, is since much recovered.
We have the Pleasure to inform the Publick, that his Excellency, his Lady, and Daughter, are well. The Great Seal of the Province was raked out of the Ruins, on the Evening of the 31st of December, without being the least defaced.
The Day after the above Five his Excellency our Governor sent the following Letter to the Worshipful Whitehead Hicks, Esq; Mayor of this City: "Sir, deeply impressed as I am with a grateful Sense of the arduous Endeavours of the Citizens to extinguish the raging Fire which happened at Fort George last Night, and greatly threatened the Safety of the whole City, I find myself irresistibly compelled to request you to communicate to them my cordial and affectionate Thanks for the Skill and Activity with which all Ranks exerted themselves on the alarming Occasion. I am, Sir, your very obedient humble Servant, WILLIAM TRYON."
In such an unforeseen and calamitous Manner hath this great and good Man been visited, at a Time when he was endeavouring, by the most liberal Donations, to relieve the Misfortunes and dry up the Tears of the Prisoner, the Fatherless, and the Widow, in all Parts of the Province; a Man whose Attachment to his Royal Master, and Desire to do him Service, can only be equalled by his Excellency's unwearied Assiduity in communicating Happiness to those faithful and loyal Subjects who are placed under his immediate Superintendence.
Colonel Fanning also, his Excellency's principal Secretary, a Gentleman universally esteemed for his Humanity and Benevolence, hath been a very great Sufferer, but is happy in saving the Papers belonging to the Surrogate's Office.
His Excellency the Governor has taken the House lately occupied by Major Bayard, in Broad Street.
The most comfortable of all Conditions in human Life, last Sunday Fortnight, met with a shocking Affront. It happened at a principal Town in Long Island, as follows. A Woman of 48, and a Man of 36, had agreed to be married, and a Minister was engaged to perform the sacred Rite. The Man, upon calling at the Mansion of his intended Spouse, and not finding her at home, was jocosely told that her Mind was suddenly changed, and she had rode off to avoid his Importunities. He, taking all for Gospel, suddenly retired, and slipping the Halter from his Horse's Head, fastened it round his own, and very composedly ascended a venerable Tree in the Road, on which the dismal Demoniac was the next Morning found, by his own Father, suspended by the Neck, between Heaven and Earth, a lifeless Corpse.
The Cafe of the Highlanders, lately landed here from Scotland, is truly deplorable. We are told that 280 Souls were shipped in a very small Vessel, that on the Passage there proved to be an extreme Scarcity of Provisions, and that 81 Persons died on Shipboard.
An excellent Charity Sermon was preached last Sunday Evening, in the old Presbyterian Church in this City, by the Reverend Dr. Witherspoon, and a very generous Contribution was made for the Relief of the poor People lately arrived here from the Highlands of Scotland, whose necessitous Circumstances loudly call for the charitable Assistance of the Benevolent and Humane.
To the Benevolent and Humane: After Sermon in all the English Churches of this City, next Sunday Morning, a Collection will be made for the present Relief of the distressed Highlanders lately arrived at this Port from Scotland. Blessed is the Man that provideth for the Sick and Needy, the Lord shall deliver him in the Time of Trouble.
WILLIAMSBURG, January 27. BY Letters from Boston, we hear that the Ladies of that Place, to their immortal Honour, have entered into an Association against the Use of East India Tea; and that they intend sending their Compliments soon to all the other Ladies on the Continent to refrain from that baneful Practice, at least till America is freed from Parliamentary Taxation. The Province of Massachusetts Bay, it is said, when Occasion requires, can raise 50,000 effective Men.
Some little While ago, as we are informed, a Merchant in this Colony, for the better Security of his invaluable Storehouse, ordered a Door to be made which should baffle the Attempts of the most redoubtable Knave; and he was quickly furnished with one, at the moderate Price of forty even Pounds, in Consideration of its being amply defended by huge and unrelenting Nails. Repenting of his Bargain, however, and signifying his Compunction to a Neighbour, he, very generously, agreed to take the Door off his Hands, and give him a Peck of Corn for every Nail in it; which, it is said (O fatal for him) amounts to a larger Crop than he is ever likely to reap from his Lands. A Suit is now depending, upon whose Punges this ponderous Door shall swing.
Deaths.] Master JOHN ROBINSON, only Son of the late Speaker, at the House of William Nelson, Esq; in Caroline. His Corpse was brought to King and Queen, and buried on a high Point of Land near Mattapony River, a small Distance above Turner's Warehouse.
One favour'd Son engag'd Sufannah's Care, One pious Youth her chief Affection crown'd; In his young Breast the Virtues sprung so fair, Such Charms display'd, such Sweets diffus'd around. But whilst gay Transport in her Face appears, A noxious Vapour clogs the poison'd Sky, Blasts the fair Crop—the Mother's drown'd in Tears, And, scarce surviving, sees her Darling die. O'er the pale Corpse we saw her gently bend; Heart-chill'd with Grief—my Thread the cry'd, is spun! If Heaven had meant I should my Life extend, Heaven had preserv'd my Life's Support, my Son!
Reverend JAMES PASTEUR, Rector of St. Bride's Parish, in Norfolk County.
Mr. PURDIE, WHEN a Professor of Rhetorick, and a Master of Stile, informs the World, as well as the Reverend Mr. Bracken, of an established Rule in the Schools, that Similes should run on All-Fours. I must suppose some valuable Doctrine to be contained in this Rule. However, I have not been happy to find out, by my own Cogitation, what this Doctrine is, and therefore I am very desirous of an explanatory Lecture, or Dissertation. Could I have succeeded in my Search, by my own Strength, I would not have thus called aloud for foreign Assistance; but, alas! I have puzzled myself to no Purpose. What gravels me in my Attempt to investigate, on this Occasion, is, I perceive, the Expression All-Fours. It occurred to me, that there is a Game at Cards called All-Fours; but then, said I to myself, it can never be the Meaning of the Rule in the Schools that Similes in general should run upon this Game at Cards. I considered farther, that there is a Figure in Numeration which is called a Four, and that a Plurality of these may be justly denominated Fours; but then again, it could never be the Meaning of the Rule in the Schools that every Simile should run upon these Numerals. If any Person, I observed to myself, should say that a Dog, or a Cat, or a Coach, runs upon Four, I should be at no Loss for that Meaning, because I could easily suppose the Expression to be elliptical, and that the Word Legs, or Wheels, was to be understood; but if the same Person should say, that a Dog, or a Cat, or a Coach, runs upon All-Fours, I should find myself surrounded by a thick Mist. I remembered to have met with the Expression All-Two, but
never that of All-Two. This last Thought had like to have made me cry out, incomprehensible Jargon! Barbarism! Language not fit for the Schools! &c. But I checked myself, reflecting that it would better become me to be civil and respectful, and humbly to sue for Instruction. I therefore hope that the Genius (and, if that be not enough, the Genius) of W. and M. will condescend to remove my Difficulties, and show me how I may crack his precious Nut, and enjoy the sweet Relish of its Kernel. When this has been done, I may then, perhaps, consider whether it be not possible for some Circumstance in an heroic, or mock-heroic Simile, to make up for the Defect of not running on All-Fours. Two Similes pop into my Head at present, which I should be glad to have an Opportunity of examining by the Rule of running on All-Fours. One of them is that of Homer, where he compares the sudden Cure of a Wound to the Operation of turning Milk into Curds; the other of them is that celebrated One of Butler, where he compares the Phenomena of a certain Morning to the Change wrought in a Lobster by its being boiled.
I am, your humble Servant, QUARTUS CUNCTIUS PEDANTIUS PHILOLOGUS.
Cleared from the Upper District of JAMES RIVER. January 24. Lucy, John Driver, for Salem, with 1800 Bushels of Corn, 50 Bushels of Wheat, and 30 Bushels of Beans. 28. Molly, Isaac Younghusband, for Liverpool, with 11,400 Bushels of Wheat, 8 Barrels of Flower, and 11,000 Staves.
Entered in the Lower District of JAMES RIVER. January 13. Schooner Molly, John Wootton, from Rhode Island, with 4 Bags of Coffee, and Ballast. 18. Schooner Grayhound, Abraham Trefethen, from Piscataway, with 20 Barrels of Onions, 21 Barrels of Potatoes, 20 Hds. and 2 Barrels of pickled Fish, 6 Barrels of Salmon, 20 Quintals of dry Fish, 17 Barrels of Oil, 1000 Weight of Sole Leather, 1 Dsk, and 4 Passengers.
Cleared Outwards. January 21. Sloop Betsey, Lewis Hatton, for Antigua, with 1800 Bushels of Corn, 102 Bushels of Pease, 20 Barrels of Pork, 15,000 Shingles, and 1000 Staves.
The Piece signed INSPECTOR shall have a Place in our next; but the COPY of VERSES, being two personal, we must beg to be excused from inserting.
Advertisements.
NORFOLK, January 19, 1774. AS the Copartnership of James Campbell and Company expires in August next, all Persons indebted thereto are desired to make speedy Payment; and as there is a great Number of Accounts which have been long outstanding, those who fail to pay, or settle by Bond or otherwise, at or before the Meeting of the Merchants in Williamsburg, may depend upon being sued. In the Meantime, the Business will be carried on as usual.
PRINCE GEORGE, January 4, 1774. THE Creditors of the late Mr. SAMUEL GORDON are desired to give in their several Claims against his Estate to Mr. John Baird, in Order that they may be discharged as soon as the Money can possibly be raised, as I am determined to bring Matters to a Conclusion as soon as it is in my Power. The Debtors cannot therefore think of longer Indulgence. ALEXANDER GORDON, Administrator.
For CHARTER to any Part of Europe, THE Ship Margaret, Robert Speirs Master, a fine new Vessel, Burthen 400 Hogheads, and now lying at Norfolk. For Terms apply to Andrew Sprowle, of Gosport, or the Master on Board.
PETERSBURG, January 14, 1774. THE Subscriber has six Bales of ROLLS (imported last Month in the Thomas) which he will sell at a very low Advance, for Tobacco or Cash. They cost from 5d. three Farthings to 6d. Half-penny, and are very good at the Price. HENRY LOCHHEAD.
To be SOLD, to the highest Bidder, at March Pittsylvania Court, MY Plantation on Turkey Creek, near the said Courthouse, with 1100 Acres of Land. As I have already given some Description of the Land and Plantation, it is needless to say any Thing more on that Head. About 250l. of the Purchase Money is to be paid down; or if the Payment thereof can be made certain by the latter End of the ensuing General Court, it will be sufficient. Two Years Credit will be allowed for the Balance, on giving good Security; and the Bond to carry Interest from the Date, if not paid in Time. GEORGE JEFFERSON. N. B. I shall be ready at the Time above mentioned to treat with any Person for any other Part of my Lands in the said County.
Pursuant to a Decree of the Worshipful Court of Southampton, will be SOLD, to the highest Bidder, on Thursday the 10th of March, at the Courthouse, being Court Day, A VALUABLE Tract of LAND, containing by Estimation 750 Acres, whereon Mr. Thomas Wills formerly lived. Any Person inclined to purchase may be informed of the Quality and Situation of the Land by applying to the said Thomas Wills, in Southampton. Three Months Credit will be allowed to the Purchaser, on giving Bond and Security to JOSEPH and WILLIAM SCOTT.
To be SOLD, to the highest Bidder, on Tuesday the 15th of March, on the Premises, and may be entered on immediately, A VALUABLE Tract of LAND on Dan River, Halifax County, containing 1758 Acres, Part of which is rich low Grounds, and there are all convenient Houses on it. A farther Description is thought needless, as it is presumed no Person will purchase without viewing it. Twelve Months Credit will be allowed for one Half the Purchase Money, and two Years for the Remainder. Mr. John Baird will treat for the Land and attend the Sale, to whom Bond and Security is to be given. Mrs. Perrin's Dower is laid upon this Land. I will show the Land at any Time before the Sale. (t. d. s) WILLIAM WADE.
To be SOLD, in Fauquier County, A VALUABLE Tract of LAND, containing 5 or 600 Acres, whereon are high, dry, and healthful Situations, with fine Prospects of the Mountains, convenient to Court, Churches, Meeting Houses, Mills, &c. within 26 Miles of Dumfries, 35 of Falmouth, and 40 of Alexandria. The Land is in the Heart of a fine Wheat or Tobacco Country, either of which, or any other Commodity, may be advantageously disposed of at either of the above mentioned Markets, or in the Neighbourhood, where there are several Stores. For Terms apply to the Subscriber, near the Premises. (4) JOHN CHILTON.
NORFOLK, January 15, 1774. THE Subscribers have removed from Portsmouth to this Place, and have for Sale, at their Store on the Town Point Wharf, West India and Northward RUM, old Barbados CANE SPIRIT, Mucovado and Loaf SUGAR, COFFEE, PIMENTA, Madeira WINE, from two to six Years old, of the London Market Quality, Teneriff, Calacavilla, Malaga, and St. Michael's WINES, a few Holland made IRON CHESTS, MARBLE SLABS, a Quantity of best GUN FLINTS, and a small Cargo of very fine Lisbon SALT. INGLIS & LONG.
RUN away from the Subscriber, in August last, a stout well let outlandish Negro Fellow named TOM, talks but indifferent English, and perhaps cannot tell his Master's Name and Place of Residence, is marked on his Back, and I believe Breast, with his Country Marks, has bled Teeth, a large Scar or Dent on one Side of his Head, a large Scar across the Outside of his left Wrist, and, I mistake not, one or more of his Fingers are somewhat crooked or contracted, and he is very Parrot-tonged. Had on when he went away an Osnaburg Shirt and short Rolls Trousers, and carried with him a Cotton Jacket. Whoever brings the said Negro to me, in Amelias, shall have 40s. Reward, besides what the Law allows, and 5l. if taken out of the Colony. FRANCIS EPPES.
N. B. I have still for Sale the several Tracts of Land, near Petersburg, belonging to the Estate of Mr. Thomas Williams, deceased, formerly advertised in this Paper, and particularly described.
RUN away, on Monday the 18th of October last, a likely Mulatto Girl named FANNY, about fourteen or fifteen Years of Age; she formerly belonged to Mr. Augustine Smith, of Middlesex, with whom I am informed her Mother, named Jean, now lives as Cook. I have great Reason to suspect that she has been harboured by a Negro Fellow named Moses, belonging to Peyton Randolph, Esq; about his Quarter in Merchants Hundred, from whence, I suppose, she will endeavour to cross about York to go to her Relations in Middlesex. Whoever apprehends the said Slave, and secures her in any of his Majesty's Jails, and gives me Notice thereof, shall have 3l. Reward, or 4l. if delivered to me in Williamsburg. JOHN LEWIS.
For SALE, on reasonable Terms, at NEWCASTLE, Choice MADEIRA WINE. Kenton's BOTTLED PORTER. West India RUM.
C H E E S E, of different Sorts. Cadiz SALT. Several Pair of very handsome large gilt LOOKING GLASSES. DRESSING GLASSES of different Sizes. O S N A B R U G S. BAR IRON and GERMAN STEEL. BRASS CHARIOT WHEEL BOXES, &c. F. S Y M E.
THE Person who has got a Plan of the Lots at the College Landing, or a Plan of Johnson's Lots, in the City of Williamsburg, is desired to send them to MATTHEW DAVENPORT.
ALL Persons are forewarned from Hunting, Fowling, or Fishing, on any Part of the Lands belonging to the Estate of William Lightfoot, Esq; deceased, by the Executors. (||)
FREDERICKSBURG, January 14, 1773. THE 29th of this Instant being appointed by the JOCKEY CLUB for one of their quarterly Meetings, it is desired that those Members who can make it convenient will attend on that Day. (||) GEORGE WEEDON, Secretary.
WILLIAMSBURG, January 19, 1773. A PERSON who understands the Business of a DRAWER, and comes well recommended, will meet with good Encouragement by applying to ROBERT ANDERSON.
GLOUCESTER, January 12, 1774. I INTEND to leave the Colony very soon. JOHN THROCKMORTON.
To be SOLD, on Thursday the 3d of March, at Gloucester Courthouse, THE upper GLEBE in Ware Parish, containing 300 Acres. It is esteemed one of the best high Land Plantations in Gloucester County, a fine Swamp runs through it, abounding with Ash, and the Range is excellent. Credit will be allowed until the 1st of December, Bond and Security being given to the Trustees. The Reverend Mr. Fontaine will show the Land to any Person inclined to purchase it.
JANUARY 12, 1773. THE Snow HOPE, George Holmes Commander, Burthen about 320 Hogheads of Tobacco, now lying at Port Royal, and ready to receive her Loading, will take in Tobacco, for Liverpool, at eight Pounds Sterling a Tun, with Liberty of Consignment, provided Offers for near her Load be made within a Month; or will be let out, wholly, on Charter to Liverpool or Whitehaven, upon reasonable Terms. Apply to the Captain on Board, or to EDWARD DIXON. (2) CHARLES YATES.
For SALE, A VALUABLE Tract of LAND on Mattaponi River, near Burche's Bridge, Brunsfield, containing 750 Acres, 250 of which are exceeding fine low Ground, and some of it at a small Expense may be converted into fine Meadows; the high Land in general is very strong and rich, fit for Tobacco and Wheat, and for the latter a Market may be had within three Miles of the Place. This Plantation, at a small Charge, may be made a very handsome Settlement for a private Family; having on it a good Dwelling-House and other Outbuildings, with Apple and Peach Orchards, and is about thirty Miles from Petersburg. The Payments will be made easy to the Purchaser, and the Terms known by applying to the Subscriber, on the Premises. (||) BURGESS WALL.
To be SOLD, on Tuesday the 1st of February, TWO Hundred Acres of well timbered Land in York County, being Part of the Land where I now live, about ten Acres of which are cleared, and a good Dwelling-House upon it. It is the Place where John Glass, deceased, formerly lived, is within five Miles of Williamsburg, and two of Capatrick Ferry. There is on the Land a great Deal of Timber and Wood, which may be easily conveyed to Williamsburg. A clear Right and Title will be made to the Land, and Credit allowed for one Half the Money until April next, and for the other Half until April 1775, on giving Bond and Security. The same Day will be sold a very good Riding Chair, Horse, and Harness, also a Mare Colt, three Years old next Spring; Credit for which will be allowed till the last Day of April next, the Purchaser giving Bond and Security to Mr. Stanshope Vaughan. (2) BENJAMIN VALENTINE.
NEW KENT, January 13, 1774. THE Legatees of Richard Allen, Senior, deceased, are desired to meet at my House on Tuesday the 8th of February, to divide the SLAVES of the said Decedent, by mutual Consent, and receive their respective Shares. They are required to take Notice that those who do not attend themselves, or send a Person properly empowered to act for them, will have all the Costs to pay which may be incurred by a Suit in Order to such Division. All Persons who have any Demands against the said Estate are desired to make them known, on or before that Day. (2||) RICHMOND ALLEN, Executor.
TAKEN up, in Caroline, a small BAY HORSE about eight Years old, four Feet three Inches high, a cut Mane and Switch Tail, had a sore Back, and branded on the near Buttock 7. Posted, and appraised to 7l. 10s. (||) RICHARD BOOKER.

POETS CORNER.
WINTER'S EVE.
Of frowning Winter, who deforms the Year, And bids all Life and Beauty disappear, Spread o'er the Ground his broadless Iron Wings, With sable Sadness shades the Face of Things, I sing the Evening; join my willing Lays, And smile, ye Muses, on my faint Effays. To you my Strains, Melpomene, belong, Friend of the weeping Muse, and tragick Song. Say, can a Poet gain ecstatic Fire When Nature's Self does languish and expire! When all around us wears to deep a Gloom, As if Life's silent solemn Pause was come! The Hills and Valleys, Woods, and Sylvan Scenes, Delightful Gardens, and embowering Greens, (Views that the Poet in soft Raptures blind, And wake Ideas in his pensive Mind) Alas! are vanish'd from our longing Eyes, And now, sad Change! far other Scenes arise; Less pleasing Motives gloomy Scenes controul, And barren Dulness agitates the Whole. No more we see, with Pleasure and Surprise, In green Perspective distant Landscapes rise; See Spires and Turrets, on the setting Day, Shine with faint Lustre, and reflect Sol's Ray; But swift descending Showers in Torrents fall, And Clouds, and Rain, and Darkness, cover all. With miry Steps the Bumpkin homeward hies, To shield himself from the inclement Skies; The lowly Cottage, from the driving Rain, Receives the honest Weather-beaten Swain. On goes the Stock Lot, clear the Embers burn, And all are joyous at the Sire's Return; A neat Repast the good old Dame prepares, In the Refreshment vanish all his Cares. Then blow the Winds, or falls the heavy Rain, It nought affects the shelter'd happy Swain; Who finds Contentment, to the Great unknown, Or all the Grandeur that attends the Throne: Well pleas'd to see his Off spring round him throng, And listening catch the Accents from his Tongue; Whose Lessons point them out the happy Road, "To look, through Nature, up to Nature's God."
COMMITTED to Surry Jail, the 2d
OF November last, a Negro Man who says his Name is JACOB ARMSTRONG, that he belongs to Mr. Cornelius Collick, in Lewis Town, Maryland, and ran away from a Vessel in Roanoke River, the Master's Surname Hige. He is about five Feet seven Inches high, in a Woolen Coat, Sailor's Jacket, Check Shirt and Trousers. The Owner is desired to take him away, and pay Charges. MICAJAH COGGIN, Jailer.
RUN away from the Subscriber, in October
Last, a middle sized Negro Woman, about 35 Years of Age, has a few Specks of Black about the lower Part of her Face, some Scars on her Breast, and has a very important Countenance; she was formerly the Property of Mr. Mers, at Piqueton. Her common Dress, when she went away, was blue Plains. I expect she may be in Norfolk or Hampton. Whoever secures the said Negro in any of his Majesty's Jails shall receive a Reward of 20s. from me, in Williamsburg. JOHN DRAPER.
She is fond of Liquor, and apt to sing indecent and Sailors Songs when so. It is probable she will endeavour to pass for a free Woman. All Masters of Vessels, and others, are hereby forewarned from harbouring her.
TAKEN up, in Amelia, a DUN COLOURED MARE about six
Years old, four Feet four or five Inches high, with a hanging Mane and Switch Tail, trots and gallops, and has a small Star in her Forehead. Posted, and appraised to 6l. 6s. 8d. SAMUEL BENTLEY.
LOUISA, January 1, 1774.
WHEREAS a Person who goes by the Name of James Fester, and says he is blind, was some Time ago conducted to my House, near the Courthouse, purposing to go with me into Brunswick County, to buy an Estate there, but took the Liberty, at Burgess's Ordinary (by some fortuitous Help) to go off with a bay Mare of mine, about eight Years old, four Feet five Inches high, and branded on the near Buttock T T, with Saddle, Bridle, and Bags, in which were some of my Clothes, I do hereby offer a Reward of 50s. to any Person who secures the said Villain Lumen ademptum , upon Notice being given to me. N. B. He had on a blue Coat and Breeches, with a gray Waistcoat. THOMAS FREEMAN.
LOST on the Road between Harwood's
Mill and Williamsburg, a Chair Box containing sundry Wearing Apparel and SURGEONS INSTRUMENTS. Whoever delivers them to the Subscriber, in Williamsburg, shall receive 40s. for their Trouble. JOHN M. GALT.
PETERSBURG, January 4, 1774.
THE Subscriber having removed to Petersburg, begs all those indebted to him for Dealings at the Store lately kept by him at Osborne's Warehouse, and whose Accounts are still open, to come immediately and close them by Bond, if not by Payment. The Necessity he is under of fulfilling his own Engagements will oblige him to bring Suits against all who disregard this Advertisement. JOHN FISHER.
NORFOLK, January 6, 1774.
THE Subscribers have received, by the last Ships from Britain, some Bales of GERMAN OSNABRUGS, BROWN ROLLS, RUSSIA DRILL, and SHEETING; which they will sell at a low Advance, in the Wholesale Way, for short Credit. AITCHISON & PARKER.
WARWICK, January 4, 1774.
THE Subscriber has for SALE two exceeding good Negro BLACKSMITHS. One Half of the Money will be required at the ensuing April General Court, and the Remainder in October. PATRICK HUNTER.
For SALE in the Town of Richmond, on the Main
Street, A LARGE well finished STORE HOUSE, WHEAT HOUSE, LUMBER HOUSE, KITCHEN, and STABLE, with one Acre of LAND enclosed; there are good Brick Cellars below the Store, and Wheat House the whole Extent. The Terms may be known by applying to the Subscriber, in Manchester. JAMES LYLE.
AS I have given over Trade in this Country, I beg the Favour of all those who have Accounts unsettled on my Books to come and settle them immediately, by Bond or other Sureties. Such as fail may depend that Suits will be commenced against them, without Respect of Persons. Those whose Accounts are settled, and have been long due, I hope will pay proper Regard to this Advertisement, as longer Indulgence neither can or will be given. I would willingly rent my Storehouses, which are very convenient to Trade, and situated in the Centre where four Stores formerly were occupied that are now broke up, viz. Buchanan and Haffie's, in Charlotte, Ditto in Halifax, Donald and Company, and this here. Those who have seen it declare it to be one of the most pleasant Situations in the back Country, and the Houses are built after the best Manner. Any Man in Trade, who may incline to rent, could either board with me or keep House himself, as there are all Manner of Conveniencies for that Purpose. I likewise could be of Service to any One who might be a Stranger in Trade here, as my Acquaintance is extensive in these Parts. (4) WALTER ROBERTSON.
KING WILLIAM, January 8, 1774.
RUN away, in July last, MATT, a tall slim Negro Man, by Trade a Carpenter, and about forty Years old; he walks badly, having been a Pross-bit in Prison some Years ago, by which he lost one of his great Toes, and the Print of the Irons he then had on may be seen plainly on his Legs. Whoever delivers him to me shall receive 3l. if taken within twenty Miles of my House, and 5l. if at a greater Distance. (11) NATHANIEL BURWELL.
To be SOLD, and Possession given in February next, or sooner, if required,
THE FURNACE situated in the Township of Salisbury, and Province of Connecticut, New England, having been lately rebuilt on the most approved Plan, all the Conveniencies about the same being either new or in good Repair, together with all the Utensils, and a complete Set of Patterns for hollow Ware and other Castings; the sole Property of a Piece of Water from which the Furnace is supplied, the Area measuring 600 Acres; a Mansion House most agreeably situated, consisting of four Rooms on a Floor, a good Garden, and other Conveniencies; two other Houses for Workmen, a Store completely fitted for English and West India Goods and Provisions, a Comping House, &c. a large Barn, with Stabling for Horses and Oxen. Also a Property in the Bed of Iron Ore in said Salisbury, known by the Ore Grant, with an exclusive Right of digging, raising, and carrying away Ore from another Bed called Cartfield's Ore Bed, and the Right of Soil in a Piece of Land joining well on the Ore Grant, which contains Iron Ore. These Beds all lie within two Miles of the Furnace, the Roads good. Also 753 Acres of Land, 300 of which are under Improvement, and the Whole well watered. The Premises are situated in a healthy, fruitful, and pleasant Country, on the high Road from Hartford to Hudson's River and Albany, distant about thirty Miles from the River. The Quality of the Iron made from the above Ore is well known, both in England and America, to be equal to any made on this Continent. The Quantity of Ore, which lies near the Surface, appears inexhaustible, the Country round is well supplied with Wood for Coal, and the regular Supply of Water at all Seasons (without Danger from Floods) admits of the Furnace being in Blast all the Year. The Iron is excellent for Potash Kettles, Sugar Boilers for the West Indies, and military Stores. The Furnace not taking all the Water, any additional Works might be erected, with great Convenience, and small Expense. The rapid Settlement of an extensive Country, to the North and North West, must daily increase the Demand for every Article usually cast at a Furnace. An extensive Trade may be introduced in English and West India Goods, out of which the Works might be supplied with Stock and Provisions, and carried on with more Profit than such Business can be in a Country where there are few Inhabitants.
Also to be SOLD, a complete DOUBLE FORGE, with four Fires and two Hammers, now at Work, together with all necessary Utensils, situated in Colchester, Connecticut, near the Road from Hartford to the Furnace, built in 1771, after the best Model, with a good Stream and Head of Water, and in Case of Need (in very dry Seasons) the Privilege of a Pond of Water five Miles in Length, for supplying of said Forge. The like Caution is observed to prevent the Business being retarded in Winter, by having the Wheels under Cover, with large Iron Stoves, and Canals cut to take the Surplus Water. Adjacent to the Forge there is a Dwelling-House with four Rooms on a Floor, a Store and Cellar, four Houses for Workmen, a Barn, Coal House, Iron House, and Blacksmith's Shop, all built in 1771; also a Saw Mill and Dwelling House at a small Distance from the Forge, with good Situations for erecting other Works on the same Stream, together with 289 Acres of Land round the Forge and Sawmill, about fifty of which are under Improvement. The Forge is situated in the Centre of a large Tract of Wood Land, surrounded with a cultivated Country, which is in Want of Bar Iron; there being very little refined Bar Iron manufactured in Connecticut, and the Consumption considerable. This Estate, joined with that at Salisbury, is capable of many Improvements. For farther Particulars apply to Mr. Charles Sturtevant Merchant in Philadelphia, Mr. Peter Vanderwoort Merchant in New York, Mr. James Holmes at the Furnace, Mr. Jacob Ogden at the Forge, or Captain William Tiley in Hartford. (11)
For SALE, the LOT and HOUSES near Cabin Point Warehouses, at present possessed by the Subscriber.
THE Lot consists of four Acres well enclosed, a good Dwellinghouse with all necessary Outhouses, a Storehouse, Counting Room, and two Lumber Houses, all at present in very good Repair.
A TRACT of LAND in Surry, about six Miles from Cabin Point, containing 335 Acres, on which there is a Dwellinghouse, a small Apple and Peach Orchard, and a Quantity of very good Pine Timber.
Another TRACT in Brunswick, containing 355 Acres, known by the Name of Smokey Ordinary, with a good Dwellinghouse, necessary Houses, a Storehouse, Counting Room, and Lumber House, all lately built, and well adapted for either a Merchant or a Tavern Keeper. For Terms apply to Thomas Simmons, in Brunswick, or to JAMES BUCHANAN. (11)
TWENTY POUNDS REWARD.
RUN away from the Subscriber, a Mulatto Man named ABEL, about forty Years old, near six Feet high, has lost several of his Teeth, large Eyebrows, a Scar or two on some Part of his Face, occasioned by a Brick thrown at him by a Negro, is very apt to stroke his Hand over his Chin, and plays on the Violin. He is well known as a Pilot for York River and the Bay. As I have whipped him twice for his bad Behaviour, I believe Scars may be seen upon his Body. He can write so as to be understood, and once wrote a Pass for a Negro belonging to the Honourable Colonel Corbin, wherein he said the Fellow had served his Time honestly and truly. He has been to England, but the Captain he went with took Care to bring him back, and since his Return from that Country is very fond of Liquor. He is gone off in a Boat with two Masts, Schooner rigged, once a Pilot Boat, but now the Property of the Magdalen Schooner of War, and was seen, I am told, fifty or sixty Leagues to the southward of Cape Henry, from which it is expected he intends for one of the Carolinas. He is a very great Rogue, and is so instructed by several Persons not far from Wormeley's Creek, York River; one of whom, he told me, said I was not worthy to be his Master. He had some Cash of my Son's, and an Order drawn by Captain Panderson on Richard Corbin, Esq; payable to Ralph C. Meredith, or myself. A white Lad went off with him, whom I cannot describe, never having seen him to my Knowledge. Whoever secures said Servant, so that I get him again, shall have the above Reward. (11) SAMUEL MEREDITH, Senior.
KING & QUEEN, November 16, 1773.
FOR SALE,
THE HOUSES and LOTS, in the Town of York, where the Subscriber now lives. The Dwelling-House is a very commodious One, with four Rooms above and four below, a very large Brick Storehouse, a large and well cultivated Garden, Stables, Kitchen, Wash House, &c. in good Repair. Also about one Hundred Acres of cleared high Land, and about sixteen Acres of exceeding good Meadow, making together a very square compact Parcel of Land, and will make a convenient little Farm for any Gentleman residing here, as it does not exceed two Miles and a Half from Town. For Terms inquire of (11) JACQUELIN AMBLER.
NEWMARKET (Caroline) December 1, 1773.
RUN away from the Subscriber, the latter End of October 1772, a likely Mulatto Man named RANDOLPH, about thirty Years of Age, and five Feet eight or nine Inches high; he had on, when he went away, a Suit of Green, with red Livery. As he has many Acquaintances about Williamsburg, it is probable he is lurking about that Place. Whoever delivers the said Slave to me shall have THREE POUNDS Reward. (11) ROBERT BAYLOR.
For SALE, at our Store in Norfolk,
OSNABRUGS, SADLERY, low priced HATS and CHECKS in assorted Packages, Cadiz SALT, Barbados and Grenada RUM, Barbados SPIRIT, choice Lisbon WINE in Quarter Casks, Madeira WINE in Pipes, Hogheads, and Quarter Casks, of Sterling, New York, and Virginia Quality, COFFEE, GINGER, PIMENTA, Muscovado SUGAR, LOGWOOD, EARTHEN WARE, and European made CORDAGE. (11) GREENWOOD, RITSON, and MARSH.
N. B. Our Brig Betsy , Captain Solomon Edey, will sail for Madeira in fourteen Days, and return directly to Norfolk. Any of our Friends, or those connected with the House of Messrs. Lamar, Hill, Bissett, and Company, will oblige us by their Orders for Wines by her.
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 Wrenack, 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. (11) CARTER BRAXTON.
To be SOLD, SEPARATELY or TOGETHER,
TWO TRACTS of LAND. One lies in Albemarle County, on the Rivanna River, about five Miles from the great River, containing 379 Acres, 100 of which are the best Kind of low Grounds, and situated so as always to have the best Range for Stock of any Land between the Capes and Little Mountains.
The other Tract lies in Goochland County, on Lickinghole Creek, near the Three Nacked Road, and contains 700 Acres. The high Land is equal to any in these Parts, fine for Tobacco and Wheat, or any Kind of Grain or Meadow. About 200 Acres are cleared, now under good Fences, laid off in three Fields, and in fine Order to work about ten Hands to great Advantage. The Improvements are a good Dwelling-house, Kitchen, Smokehouse, a Dairy, four good Tobacco Houses, with Negro Quarters, and other convenient Buildings, also a fine Apple and Peach Orchard. The Place is pleasantly situated, has fine Water, is as healthy as any Part of the Colony, and is convenient to Church or Providence Meetinghouse, and several Mills, besides one on the Land turned by a Spring Branch to grind for three or four Families the whole Year, and is not in the least unhealthy, as the Water may be ground off every Day. Credit will be given for Part of both Tracts. Any Person inclined to purchase may know the Terms by applying to Mr. William Mitchell, Merchant in Richmond, or to the Subscriber, who will show the Land. (11) WILLIAM PRYOR. GOOCHLAND, November 1773. 3,
To be RENTED for a Life, or Term of Years, as may be agreed upon, or the Interest of my LEASE to be SOLD,
HOG ISLAND FERRY and ORDINARY, to which there is a fine Plantation, in excellent Order. For the Crop of Wheat now growing thereon I will oblige myself to allow to a Purchaser one Hundred Pounds; but if I lease the Place, I shall reserve the Crop to myself. As much Money as I have received in twenty Days by the Ferry and Ordinary will satisfy me for the annual Rent of the Whole. (11) H. U. ST. GEORGE.
TO BE SOLD,
FIVE Hundred and fifty Acres of LAND in the County of Charles City, with a convenient Dwellinghouse and other Improvements. Two Hundred and twenty Acres, in the same County, pleasantly situated on James River.
Two Thousand five Hundred and twenty Acres in the County of Cumberland, commonly known by the Name of Saint James's.
And one Thousand four Hundred and twenty one Acres in the Counties of Goochland and Cumberland, on both Sides of James River, opposite to Elk Island.
The above TRACTS of LAND were of the Estate of the late John Wayles, deceased, devised to the Subscribers, and are now offered for Sale. Persons disposed to purchase may be informed of the Terms, on Application to any one of the Subscribers; and the Times of Payment will be made easy, on giving Bond and Security to
THOMAS JEFFERSON. FRANCIS EPPES. HENRY SKIPWITH. (11)
YORK Town, June 9, 1773.
THE Subscribers being very solicitous to comply with the Will of their Testator, the late Honourable William Nelson, desire that all Persons who were indebted to him will endeavour to make as speedy Payments as possible. Those who have Accounts open on his Books, and who cannot immediately discharge the Balances, are desired to give their Bonds. This Request is the more necessary, as most of the Legacies bequeathed by the Testator are to be paid in Sterling Money, and he has directed that his younger Sons Fortunes shall be placed out at Interest upon undoubted Securities, so soon as it can be done. Those who have any Demands are desired to make them immediately known. THOMAS NELSON. THOMAS NELSON, Junior. HUGH NELSON. RO. C. NICHOLAS. (11)
TO BE SOLD,
ABOUT fourteen Thousand Acres of exceeding good LAND in the County of Pittsylvania. For Terms apply to Mr. Hugh Rose of Amherst, who will treat with any Person inclined to purchase, and be empowered to make a legal Title. (11) THOMAS LOMAX. CAROLINE, May 1, 1773.