The Virginia gazette (Williamsburg [Va.]), 1776-01-27 00:00:00

VIRGINIA
THE
GAZETTE.
WITH THE FRESHEST ADVICES,
BOTH FOREIGN AND DOMESTICK.
IN CIVITATE LIBERA LINGUAM MENTEMQUE
LIBERAS ESSE DEBERE.---Suet. in TIB. S. 28.
PRINTED by JOHN DIXON
And WILLIAM HUNTER.
ALL Persons may be supplied with this PAPER at Twelve Shillings and Sixpence a Year, and ADVERTISEMENTS (of a moderate Length) inserted for Three Shillings the first Week, and Two Shillings each Week after. PRINTING WORK done at this Office, in the NEATEST Manner, with Care and Expedition.
For the VIRGINIA GAZETTE.
The MAKING of BAY SALT.
OW marshy grounds, disposed by nature for the reception of the sea water, when the tide swells, and provided with banks and sluices to retain the same, they call salt marshes. These salt marshes, the bottoms whereof they ram with great care, are divided into square pits or basins, separated by little dikes; and into these basins, when the season is at hand, they let in the sea water. The salt season is from the middle of May to the end of August. The water is admitted to the height of about six inches, after having first let it rest, exposed to the sun for two or three days, in large reservoirs without the works, that it may come in lukewarm. The water being admitted, the sluices are shut, and the rest of the work is left to wind and sun. The surface of the water being struck, and agitated with the direct rays of that luminary, thickens at first imperceptibly, and becomes at length covered over with a slight crust; which, continuing to harden, is wholly converted into salt. The water in this state is so hot that the hand cannot be put into it without scalding. When the salt has received its full coction, they break the crust with a pole, upon which it sinks to the bottom; whence, being dragged out again, they leave it in heaps about the pit, to complete its drying, covering it over with straw or rushes, to secure it from the rain.
Eight, ten, or at most fifteen days, having thus completed the crystallization, they open the sluices, when the tide rises, for a fresh stock; and thus, alternately, while the season holds.
This bay salt is refined into white salt, by boiling it in large flat caldrons, which not only lessens its acrimony, and alters its colour, but is also found to increase the quantity.
The lower parts of this county, consisting of level and marshy grounds, seem properly adapted for making this salt; insomuch, that in the hot summer months white salt is naturally formed on the marsh grass, and has been occasionally stripped off by the inhabitants, for present use, in their fishing parties.
Along the shores also a strong stiff clay abounds, doubtless very proper for laying the bottoms and sides of the pits. The coction of the salt will be done in less time in this climate, because hotter than that which requires the time mentioned above.
Here then every requisite for procuring this article is amply provided on the part of nature: Human industry is only wanting to manufacture large quantities thereof, in the easiest and cheapest manner.
POQUOSON, York county, PLUS ULTRA. January 18, 1776.
Mess. DIXON & HUNTER,
THE committee of Hanover county having understood, that reports hath been propagated respecting on their conduct with regard to the steps taken by them to prevent disorder and confusion in the county, occasioned by the probability of a scarcity of salt; and, that the public may be satisfied as to the rectitude of their conduct, they have directed me to desire you will publish, in your next gazette, their proceedings relative thereto, bereunto annexed, which you will please to comply with. I am,
Your most humble servant, WILLIAM BENTLEY, Clerk.
HANOVER County: In COMMITTEE, December 12, 1775.
WHEREAS it is represented to this committee, that several persons have, of their own accord, gone about in a disorderly manner to search for salt, and have taken the same where it could not be well spared; and this committee taking under their consideration the above alarm occasioned by the scarcity thereof, and being willing and desirous, as far as in their power, to preserve peace and good order, and to prevent riots and tumults:
Resolved, therefore, that upon application being made to any three or more of this committee, that they will search all suspected places within this county, in the most decent and respectful manner; and if they shall find more than is sufficient for a person's own use, they will do therein as to them shall seem best and expedient, and report the same to this committee. And if any person or persons whatsoever, within their jurisdiction, shall presume, or offer, without the authority aforesaid, to go about to search for salt at any public or private places, that this committee will use their utmost endeavours to suppress the same, by such ways and means as they shall think proper, and hold the persons guilty thereof to the public for contempt of peace, justice, and good order; and that no persons offending herein may plead ignorance for an excuse.
Ordered, that the clerk of this committee do cause a copy of this order to be set up at every public place in this county, and be also published on some Lord's day at the several churches in the said county, by the ministers or readers thereof.
Signed, by order of the committee, WILLIAM BENTLEY, Clerk.
To the PRINTERS.
GENTLEMEN,
IT is with great reluctance we are drawn into this publication: Had our enemies meditated their attacks against our persons or property, we had been silent; but they have, in violation of truth, of the duties of society, and of every principle of generosity,
practised very cruel and insidious acts to deprive us of what is of much higher value—our character as men, and the esteem of our fellow citizens. They have reported us to our brethren as traitors to the American cause, and as inimical to their dearest and invaluable rights. We are accused of holding connexions with the avowed enemies to this greatly injured country.
It is therefore incumbent on us to challenge those wicked men into open light, that we may have the opportunity of evincing our innocence to the world in the most public manner. In the interim, we set them at the utmost defiance, and are,
Yours, &c.
WEST AUGUSTA, } WILLIAM CRAWFORD. Jan. 3, 1776. } JOHN STEPHENSON.
In PROVINCIAL CONGRESS, NEW YORK, Decemr 21, 1775.
WHEREAS, on the 13th instant, on information that a number of disaffected persons in Queen's county had been supplied with arms and ammunition from on board the Asia ship of war, and had been arraying themselves in military manner, to oppose the measures taken by the United Colonies for the defence of their just rights and privileges, and thrown out many threatening expressions against sundry persons residing in that and the neighbouring counties: It was resolved, by this Congress, as their opinion, that such conduct is inimical to the common cause of the United Colonies, and ought not by any means to be suffered; but that measures should be immediately taken, to put a stop to it: And it was therefore ordered, that the inhabitants of the said county should appear by a committee before this Congress, on Wednesday then next, at ten o'clock in the morning, to give satisfaction in the premises, with which order the said inhabitants of Queen's county have not complied. And whereas the persons above-mentioned, and their adherents, have opposed the election of representatives for that county in this Congress, on a poll opened for that purpose, whereby that county remains unrepresented in this Congress. And whereas a prevailing party prevented the election of Delegates for the county of Richmond, at a late poll there opened for that purpose; by means whereof the said county is not represented in this Congress. And whereas the poll list for Queen's county has been returned to this Congress, whereby the persons appointed to be representatives as aforesaid, and appearing to this Congress, to be inimical to the interest of the United Colonies, may be ascertained:
Resolved, first, that such inimical persons as aforesaid have been guilty of a breach of the general association, and of an open contempt of the authority of this Congress, as effectually representing the majority of the inhabitants of this colony.
Resolved, secondly, that the inhabitants of the county of Richmond, by neglecting to elect representatives in this Congress, have been guilty of a breach of the general association.
Resolved, thirdly, that the committee of the said county of Richmond do, and shall, within fifteen days after the publication hereof, return to this Congress, or the Committee of Safety, a list of the names of those who oppose a representation of the said county in this Congress; to the end, that the delinquents against the common cause in that county may be ascertained, and that, in default thereof, the whole county of Richmond be deemed delinquents.
Resolved, fourthly, that the said delinquents in the said counties respectively, and each and every of them, be, and hereby are, entirely put out of the protection of this Congress.
Resolved, fifthly, that all friendly and commercial intercourse between the said persons be put respectively out of the protection of this Congress, and the other inhabitants of this colony, ought to be, and the same, as far as can be effected by the recommendation of this Congress, hereby is and shall continue to be totally interdicted, until further orders of this Congress, or the Committee of public Safety.
And to the end, that no persons may plead ignorance of the aforesaid resolves, and this order, It is ordered, that the same together with a list of such delinquents as aforesaid in each of the said counties respectively, be, without delay, printed and dispersed in hand-bills, and inserted in all the news-papers of this colony. A true copy from the minutes.
ROBERT BENSON, Sec'ry.
[The names of the delinquents in Queen's county have already been published, and amount to about 730. These are not one third of the inhabitants of said county, and are chiefly of the meaner sort of people, dependent upon, or under the influence of men, who, from interested views, or worse motives, are inimical to the interests of their country.]
NEW TOWN, Suffex county, New Jersey.
Last Thursday about four hundred of the militia of this county, under the command of Col. Ephraim Martin, and Mark Thomson, assembled, and proceeded in good order and regularity in quest of Tories, a considerable number of whom (inhabitants of this county) had entered into a combination and agreement not to comply with any Congress measures: About forty, we hear, are taken, most of whom have recanted, signed the association, and profess themselves true sons of liberty, being fully convinced of their error; and that two or three, who remain incorrigible, are to be sent to the Congress to be dealt with.
PHILADELPHIA, Jan. 2.
Extract of a letter from GERMANY, August 10, 1775.
ALL Germany is fixed in admiration, wonder, and amazement, at the firm, determined, heroic spirit of the brave Americans, and are exceedingly pleased with the undaunted opposition they make against the several attacks of the formidable arms of England employed to deprive them of their just rights
to natural liberty, and to shackle them in chains of slavery and subjection ever after; and this will be the miserable consequence should they subdue you by their fleets and armies.
Great numbers of Germans live in America, and they highly experienced in happy country, the sweets of freedom and liberty, and which they did not enjoy here under their petty arbitrary rulers; these men will exert every nerve in support of the righteous cause of freedom, so sweet to them. Their numerous friends and relations here are constantly and most ardently supplicating the great Divine Ruler of all events to interpose and assist you with the almighty arm, and to set at naught all the wicked enslaving attempts of your enemies, but they hope you will not fold your arms, and depend altogether on the efficacy of your praying friends, but that you will make use of defensive means, and they hope and believe that providence will be propitious to your cause, which you have already had an earnest of, and that your oppressors may be discomfited. We wish that as England is going to hire foreign troops, in vain hope of subduing you (their own men becoming enervated and spiritless so soon as they tread American soil) that they could obtain Germans to be sent on this errand; for in that case we foresee the event would turn in your favour, as you have an extensive country for Germans to cultivate, and no people love profitable labour better, or are better adapted for the purpose, which America has long experienced, and we know that they would soon drop their fire arms, and betake themselves to the cultivation of lands. We think highly of the wisdom of your American Congress, and of all their good regulations throughout that extensive continent, and we cannot enough admire the decent, loyal, yet manly and spirited language contained in all their petitions and supplications to the Throne, and cannot enough detest the indecent treatment and scornful reception they have met with from those haughty men who guide all the movements of the nation.
But we assure you that the union chord has not been hit upon by your Congress, or all would long ere this have been well with America, and few would have known the true cause of the army and fleet returning to England. Two or three hundred thousand pounds, judiciously applied, would have wrought this miracle, and saved millions, which, for want of this knowledge, you are now expending in warlike preparations. France, Spain, Holland, and Germany have long been acquainted with this prudent secret, and have frequently administered this specific with the wish for success. Money has removed mountains; it has turned the course of rapid rivers; it has built a barrier wall, to divide China from Tartary, of fifteen hundred miles in length, and surely it will influence the pliable yielding hearts of men. I hope this method will be adopted yet, it will never be unseasonable, for the English are as greedy and ravenous after money as a hungry wolf is after a fat sheep; their Kings are not proof against its fascinating charms, and we know that they have been bribed to the prejudice of England. Touch but Bute's palm, and all will be right; he is the arch fiend, and has all the imps at his command. We believe him to be a Jesuit, and we know he is a blood relation of the banished Stuart King, and we believe he has been long working schemes to bring in one of that family to be again King of England. May his schemes all fail, and may he be transformed, not into a pillar of salt, but into a man of stone, as a lasting infamous monument for posterity to gaze upon."
Extract of a letter from DUBLIN, dated September 9.
Lord Bute's plan is to humble the Americans. Three regiments of Roman Catholics are to be raised in Ireland to send to America, which has bred a great deal of disturbance: But it is hoped the protestants will put a stop to it.
It is reported that the Parliament will not listen to the proposals sent to London from the Congress by Mr. Richard Penn, and that there are 30,000 troops to be in America before next spring, with a great fleet of ships. The 28th regiment is now at Corke for embarkation, two other regiments are under orders to sail for Boston from Gibraltar, and they are to be relieved there by troops from Hanover. There is a great stagnation of trade here, and a great noise in England on account of the disturbances in America. In Ireland we are mostly in great hopes the Americans will stand out as long as possible, if not, they may depend on the severest usage from the Parliament of England."
In CONGRESS, January 2, 1776.
WHEREAS it has been represented to this Congress, that divers honest and well-meaning, but uninformed people in these colonies, have, by the art and address of ministerial agents, been deceived and drawn into erroneous opinions respecting the American cause, and the probable issue of the present contest:
Resolved, that it be recommended to the different committees, and other friends to American liberty in the said colonies, to treat all such persons with kindness and attention, to consider them as the inhabitants of a country determined to be free, and to view their errors as proceeding rather from want of information than want of virtue or public spirit; to explain to them the origin, nature, and extent, of the present controversy; to acquaint them with the fate of the numerous petitions presented to his Majesty, as well by Assemblies as by Congresses, for reconciliation and redress of grievances; and that the last from this Congress, humbly requesting the signal favour of being heard, like all the others, has proved unsuccessful; to unfold to them the various arts of Administration to ensnare and enslave us, and the manner in which we have been cruelly driven to defend, by arms, those very rights, liberties, and estates, which we and our forefathers had to long enjoyed, unmolested, in the reigns of his present Majesty's predecessors. And it is hereby recommended to all Conventions and Assemblies in these colonies liberally to distribute among the people the proceedings of this and the former Congress, the late speeches of the great patriots in both Houses of Parliament relative to American grievances, and such other pamphlets and papers as tend to elucidate the merits of the American cause; the Congress being fully persuaded, that the more our right to the enjoyment of our ancient liberties and privileges is

examined, the more just and necessary our present opposition to ministerial tyranny will appear.
And with respect to all such unworthy Americans as, regardless of their duty to their creator, their country, and their posterity, have taken part with our oppressors, and, influenced by the hope or possession of ignominious rewards, strive to recommend themselves to the bounty of Administration by misrepresenting and traducing the conduct and principles of the friends of American liberty, and opposing every measure formed for its preservation and security:
Resolved , that it be recommended to the different Assemblies, Conventions, and Committees, or Councils of Safety, in the United Colonies, by the most speedy and effectual measures, to frustrate the mischievous machinations, and restrain the wicked practices, of these men; and it is the opinion of this Congress, that they ought to be disarmed, and the more dangerous among them either kept in safe custody, or bound with sufficient sureties to their good behaviour.
And in order that the said Assemblies, Conventions, Committees, or Councils of Safety, may be enabled, with greater ease and facility, to carry this resolution into execution:
Resolved , that they be authorised to call to their aid, whatever continental troops, stationed in or near their respective colonies, may be conveniently spared from their more immediate duty; and the commanding officers of such troops are hereby directed to afford the said Assemblies, Conventions, Committees, or Councils of Safety, all such assistance in executing this resolution as they may require, and which, consistent with the good of the service, may be supplied.
Resolved , that all detachments of continental troops, which may be ordered on the business in the foregoing resolution mentioned, be, while so employed, under the direction and controul of the Assemblies, Conventions, Committees, or Councils of Safety, aforesaid.
Resolved , that it be recommended to all the United Colonies to aid each other (on request from their respective Assemblies, Conventions, Committees, or Councils of Safety, and County Committees) on every emergency, and to cultivate, cherish, and increase, the present happy and necessary union, by a continual interchange of mutual good offices.
And whereas the execrable barbarity with which this unhappy war has been conducted on the part of our enemies, such as burning our defenceless towns and villages, exposing their inhabitants, without regard to sex or age, to all the miseries which loss of property, the rigour of the season, and inhuman devastation, can inflict; exciting domestic insurrections and murders; bribing the savages to desolate our frontiers; and casting such of us, as the fortune of war has put into their power, into jails, there to languish in irons and in want; compelling the inhabitants of Boston, in violation of the treaty, to remain confined within the town, exposed to the insolence of the soldiery, and other enormities, at the mention of which decency and humanity will for ever blush, may justly provoke the inhabitants of these colonies to retaliation:
Resolved , that it be recommended to them to continue mindful that humanity ought to distinguish the BRAVE, that cruelty should find no admission among a FREE PEOPLE, and to take care that no page in the ANNALS of AMERICA may be stained by a recital of any action which JUSTICE or CHRISTIANITY may condemn; and to rest assured, that whenever retaliation may be necessary, or tend to their security, this Congress will undertake the disagreeable task.
Resolved , that the Assemblies, Conventions, or Committees, or Councils of Safety, be requested forthwith to transmit to this Congress copies of all the petitions, memorials, and remonstrances, which have been by their respective colonies presented to the Throne, or either House of Parliament, since the year 1772; and that they also inform this Congress whether any, and what answer, were given to them.
Extracts from the minute.
CHARLES THOMSON, Sec'y.
NEW BERN (N. Carolina) Jan. 5.
LAST night arrived here a vessel from Norfolk with 60 men, women, and children, part of the Scotch settlers which Lord Dunmore's tenders took off the capes of Virginia, bound to Cape Fear, and which were to have been forced into his black and white regiments; but the defeat at the Great Bridge has happily released these unhappy people, who are going to Cross Creek to settle among their friends there.
WILMINGTON, January 3.
IN our last, we gave the best account we could of the malcontents in South Carolina; it is now reported that these people, convinced of their error in opposing the measures adopted by the continent for the preservation of their natural rights, have delivered up their leaders to the officers who were sent to reduce them to order.
From the PUBLIC LEDGER.
TO THE PEOPLE.
Audite cives acuisse ferrum, Qua graves Persae mellus perirent: Audite pugnas, vitio parentum Rura juvent.
Less numerous their parent's crimes, Our sons shall hear, shall hear to latest times, Of British arms with civil gore embu'd, Which better had their natural foes subdu'd.
EVERY considerate, unprejudiced person, views with the most dismal apprehensions the inactivity and supineness in which you are immersed at this important crisis. Frequent addresses, repeated warnings of the danger of your silence and seeming acquiescence with the measures of Administration have had little or no effect. Nothing can be more encouraging than such a disposition for ill designing men to introduce arbitrary principles. A political indolence in the people always paves the way for oppression. There needs no reasoning to prove that it has been more owing to the want of vigilance and vigour in the subjects than to the superior address or power of the rulers and their abettors, that despotism hath so generally prevailed. The advances of tyranny are for the most part gradual, disguised under false pretences and specious rights, until it hath acquired sufficient force openly to rivet the chains it hath insidiously forged. The people, too apt to flatter themselves that every act of injustice will be the last, become at length familiarised to grievances, and an easy prey to their spoilers. Every new concession they make increases the insolence of their oppressors; every thing extorted from them, is an accession to their power, while it renders themselves less able to counteract their violence.
Your brethren of America, happily foreseeing such fatal consequences, have opposed oppression in its infancy, before it could collect strength from continuance, or claim right from prescription. They naturally expected that you would have seconded their laudable efforts as you are deeply interested in their struggle; for, on their subjugation, the loss of your freedom must ensue. The paladium of your liberties is the dependence of the Monarch upon the people for supplies. If you are made the instruments of bereaving America of the privilege of granting or refusing them, according to expedience, Administration may draw from thence, independently of you, the means of supporting their innovations of your freedom.
In a wide extended empire, the form of government must be uniform, or upon the same model, as nearly as local and other circumstances will admit. If a despotic power gains the ascendant in any one part, the whole must eventually fall under the same. The arbitrary mode of governing the Roman provinces was one great cause of the introduction of despotism into Italy.
If America should be brought into subjection, mark the obvious consequences!—The King must necessarily maintain a large standing army in order to secure the obedience of that vast continent; for this purpose great revenues will be requisite. These revenues and this disciplined army, inured to cutting the throats of their fellow subjects, may easily effectuate the extinction of your freedom. The Americans themselves may conspire and give their aid for accomplishing it, without any impeachment of the generous principles they cultivate. To retaliate unmerited injuries is justifiable, the nature and feelings of mankind must be changed, before it can be deemed otherwise. You cannot therefore expect that the Americans will permit you to enjoy those rights and privileges, of which you concurred in depriving them. Such, or your falling under the dominion of some foreign power, may be the result of enforcing the impolitic schemes of Ministry. Now, reflect but for a moment upon the intermediate evils.
Behold the most valuable branch of your commerce, that which chiefly enables you to pay the taxes which oppress you, totally obstructed and in danger of being irreparably lost. Your taxes must be still increased by every possible method, to conduct and defray the expenses of a most ruinous destructive war. All wars are distressing and burthensome, but this will prove peculiarly so. The wealth and assistance you drew from America, aided you to support other wars. Nevertheless the nation has incurred an immense debt, the event in time of peace requires the imposition of grievous taxes, without the prospect of its being much diminished in any reasonable time. In a war with the colonies you must almost entirely rely on your own internal resources. Contemplate the probable ruin of many of your merchants and factors, the distress of your manufacturers and artificers, unable to procure their wonted employment.—Contemplate too the discontent, murmurs, and commotions, that this state of unrelievable distress and involuntary idleness must engender.—Consider the intestine dissensions that may distract England. America has many friends here, many there are convinced of the righteousness of her cause, and many are equally convinced of the rash impolicy of attempting its subjugation, who will therefore oppose it by all the means in their power. Add now the incident grievous miseries of civil war, in which even over victory humanity must mourn.
When civil contests have drained your treasures, and exhausted your strength, how will you be able to frustrate the machinations, or repel the assaults of foreign foes? Should a war with them happen on the back of this with America, you will be in danger of irretrievable ruin. Nor is there any thing more probable than such a war happening. Although you should furnish your natural enemies with no ground, they will lay hold of some pretext or other for a rupture. The juncture itself will excite them. Nations do not stand much upon justice, when the dazzling prospect of success prevents itself. It is not unlikely that they may take part in the present war. The Continental Congress have intimated, that foreign aid is attainable. Who can with reason blame them, if finding themselves in danger of subjection, they avail themselves of such assistance? They may procure it perhaps on more tolerable terms than any Great Britain would grant, if she proved successful. It will be the interest of other nations to support the Americans, if they had no other end in view than to weaken this kingdom, whose grandeur excites their envy and dread, by so capital a dismemberment. It is very observable too, that they may derive vast advantages from a friendly intercourse and free trade with the colonies. Do not therefore reduce America to the disagreeable necessity of throwing off her dependence, and by so great a diminution of your power and opulence, augment those of your natural enemies. What infatuation urges you to hazard so fatal an event? No rational motives can induce you. Those who persuade you that there are, basely endeavour to delude you. The Ministry, with their pensioned sycophants and hiring scribblers, pretend "that it is to ease you of the weight of taxes." If that be the real scope of their projects, the contest would be but of short continuance, or rather would have never commenced. The Americans have repeatedly testified their readiness to contribute their share in the just and constitutional mode, that is, in the mode evidently most conducive to your and their welfare. If on due requisition they refuse, it will be then, and not till then, time to have recourse to compulsory means. But a moment's reflection will convince you, that your relief is not what they have in view. Needy dependents and idle favourites are to be provided for; unnecessary placemen and worthless pensioners are to be prodigally maintained, if for any purpose, only to strengthen their patrons authority; and these things would continually, as they have heretofore done, multiply in proportion to the increases of the revenues. Was there ever a time during peace, when you were more grievously taxed than the present? Yet was there ever a time when there was less prospect of having taxes made lighter? Were the revenues to be ever so great, it is more likely that you would have demands for an augmentation, than the pleasure of a reduction.
The Ministry and court parasites pretend, that "the honour and glory of the nation are interested;" they have been at all times, to be sure, very scrupulous of asserting them. One would be apt to infer from such a pretence, that the Americans were quite a distinct people. Are they not as much a part of this nation as those who are sent against them? Have not many of you children, brothers, and other relatives and friends? What great honour will even victory yield? Can you expect to acquire much renown from regular troops, standing armies, butchering their fellow subjects, whose labours, co-operating with yours, have raised this empire to so exalted a pitch of glory and opulence. There is no need further to enumerate the dreadful circumstances that must flow from Ministry prosecuting their present system; they will occur to your reflection quicker than I can write; an impartial review of them will evince that nothing will accrue therefrom but losses, dangers, infamy, RUIN.
Rest not satisfied because their schemes have the approbation and sanction of a majority in Parliament; you may be as effectually ruined by seven hundred as by seven men. The most august body of men, when corrupted or misled by passion or prejudice, often commit greater faults than individuals, "ubi semel a recto deviatum est, in precipiti pervertitur," when they once deviate from justice, they run headlong into iniquity. The Ministers who can, by bribery and corruption, or by artful and false pretences, gain an undue influence over the representatives of the people, are the more criminal and dangerous. Is there one man conspicuous for his patriotic qualities, is there one man eminent for his zeal in the defence of the people's rights; or is there one man famous for the disinterested exertion of his abilities, who concurs with the Ministry? No; all such have vehemently opposed them. This single circumstance is sufficient to route you from your lethargy.
Every valuable consideration, every equitable motive, justice, and interest most powerfully exhort you to make some legal and justifiable opposition to the present measures of Administration. Express in the language of liberty your universal disappointment; before you are drawn to engage too deeply in them. You are brought to the verge of a horrid precipice; nothing but some timely exertion can save you from falling into inextricable calamities.— Tempus res, vestra pericula, magis quam mea, verba, me hortantur. GRACCHUS AMERICANUS.
AN ORDINANCE for establishing a MODE of PUNISHMENT for the ENEMIES to AMERICA in this colony, passed at a CONVENTION held in the city of WILLIAMSBURG, on Friday the 31st of December, 1775.
WHEREAS the most dangerous attempts have been made, by some persons in this colony, to subvert the rights and liberties of the inhabitants; and whereas, by a declaration of this Convention, a humane disposition towards such offenders has fully been manifested, who, notwithstanding, have failed to avail themselves thereof, and return to that duty which they owe both to this country and the rights of mankind; and whereas it is become necessary to declare what are and shall be considered as offences, to the end a regular mode of punishment may be established, and equal right and justice administered to all persons within this colony.
Be it therefore ordained, by the delegates of the people assembled in General Convention, and it is hereby ordained by the authority of the same, that if any white person, or persons, who have been in arms against this colony, shall fail to surrender himself, or themselves, to the Committee of Safety, within two months from the publication of this ordinance; and if any white person, or persons, that hereafter aid or assist the enemy, by enlisting soldiers, giving intelligence, or furnishing them with arms, provision, or naval stores, or shall bear arms against this colony; all and every such person, or persons, so having born arms, or hereafter offending in manner aforesaid, shall, upon being convicted as hereafter mentioned, be liable to be imprisoned, or otherwise confined in such manner as the Committee of Safety may direct. And proper persons shall be appointed by the Committee of Safety to take possession of their estates, both real and personal, and to cultivate the same to the best advantage, and pay the profits thence arising into the hands of the treasurer of this colony for the time being, to be disposed of towards satisfying the just debts of such delinquent, to be ascertained by the Committee of Safety; and the residue for the public use, in such manner as the said committee shall think most for the advantage of this colony. And the principal estates shall be subject to the future determination of the Convention.
Provided nevertheless, the Committee of Safety shall have full power and authority to pardon such as have heretofore been or shall be in arms against this colony, or shall otherwise offend as aforesaid, upon being satisfied of his or their repentance, and desire to be restored to the confidence of this colony, and returning to his or their duty; and in all such cases, the said Committee of Safety shall state the case of each offender to the Convention, to enable them to determine what should be done with their estates.
And whereas it is essential to the peace, the happiness, and safety of this colony, that the continental association should be strictly observed, and that all violators of the same should be duly punished:
Be it further ordained, that from and after the passing of this ordinance, all merchants, traders, or other persons who shall import into this colony any goods, wares, or merchandise, contrary to the said continental association (except in cases allowed by the General Congress, or the General Convention) shall forfeit the goods, wares, or merchandise, so imported; and if any person, or persons, so offending, shall refuse or fail to deliver up the said goods, wares, or merchandise, when required by the Committee of Safety to do so; he, she, or they, so refusing or failing, shall forfeit and pay the full value thereof in money; and, in either case, shall, moreover, be for ever rendered incapable of trading in this colony. And if any person, or persons, shall hereafter put on board any vessel, or vessels, for exportation, or shall hereafter export any produce of this colony contrary to the said association; except as aforesaid, he, she, or they, so offending, shall forfeit the cargo, or cargoes, so put on board or exported, or the value thereof; and all and every vessel, or vessels, in which any such goods, wares, or merchandise, shall be imported, or in which any such produce shall be exported, shall be, moreover, forfeited to the use of this colony, and the monies arising therefrom paid into the treasury, for the public use.
Provided nevertheless, that no such vessel or vessels aforesaid shall be forfeited, except the value of the goods, wares, and merchandise, therein imported, or of the produce exported, exceed the sum of twenty pounds sterling.
And be it further ordained, that if any person, or persons, shall hereafter, by writing, or otherwise, order any goods, wares, or merchandise whatsoever, to be imported into this colony contrary to the continental association, except as aforesaid, all and every such person, or persons, so offending, shall, upon conviction thereof, be for ever rendered incapable of trading in this colony; and every such offender, so convicted, who shall trade within this colony contrary to this ordinance, shall suffer, for every such offence, three months imprisonment, without bail or mainprize.
And whereas it is expedient and necessary, the better to determine all offences within this ordinance, and for the more speedy carrying into execution the several penalties and forfeitures incurred thereby, that persons should be appointed to take cognizance of the same: Be it therefore ordained, that John Blair, James Holt, and Edmund Randolph, Esquires, or any two of them, be, and they are hereby constituted judges to try and determine on all matters relating to vessels and their cargoes; which said judges shall have power to appoint an advocate, clerk, and such other person as they may think proper to act as marshal, who shall, from time to time, execute all process of the said court, to be issued and signed by the clerk thereof. And all witnesses who shall be summoned, and fail to appear and attend the said court, on such day as their attendance was required, shall forfeit and pay the sum of fifty shillings, for which the said court shall have power to give judgment, and award execution thereupon; and the said fines, when recovered, shall be paid to the treasurer for the time being, for the use of this colony.
Provided always, that any witness failing to appear before and attend the said court, as aforesaid, shall, at any time within three months, be allowed such excise as the said court may think reasonable; and every witness attending the said court shall have the same allowance as a witness attending the General Court.
And be it further ordained, that in all cases of condemnation made of vessels or cargoes by the said court, the person, or persons, proprietors thereof, shall, if they incline to do so, have an appeal to the Committee of Safety, on giving bond and security, in the sum of twenty pounds, for duly prosecuting such appeal within thirty days from the time of granting the same; and the determination of the said Committee of Safety thereupon shall be conclusive. And in all cases where no such appeal shall be desired, the said court shall appoint the marshal to sell and dispose of such condemned vessels and cargoes.
And be it further ordained, that the judges aforesaid shall, before entering upon the execution of their office, take the following oath, to be administered by the Committee of Safety, to wit: I do swear, that I will truly and faithfully execute the office of a judge of admiralty, according to an ordinance of Convention; and that I will do equal right and justice to all men, to the best of my judgment, without favour, affection, or partiality. So help me GOD. And the said judges, being so sworn, shall administer the following oath to the clerk and marshal, that is to say: I do swear, that I will well and truly perform myself (as clerk or marshal, as the case may be) in the execution of my office; and that I will faithfully and truly, to the best of my power, execute all orders of the court of admiralty, without favour, affection, or partiality. So help me GOD.
And be it further ordained, that the judges, being so qualified, shall meet in such place within this colony as they may think most
Time, place, & your own danger, will prevail more with you than my words.

proper for the execution of their said office, and shall have full power and authority to adjourn from day to day, and from time to time, to such other place as to them may appear necessary. And there shall be allowed and paid to each of the said judges, by the treasurer for the time being, the sum of twenty five shillings per day for each day of sitting in, or travelling to or from, the said court, for their services; and that there shall also be paid to the advocate, clerk, and marshal of the said court, so much for their services as shall be thought reasonable, in the opinion of the judges of the said court, for each respective capture. And the said judges shall have full power and authority to displace or remove, at any time, such officers of their appointment as to them shall appear necessary.
And be it further ordained, that the Committee of Safety may, and they are hereby required to commission five members of the committee of each county in this colony, to be recommended to them by the respective county committees, to take cognizance of, and determine, all offences contained in this ordinance which may arise within their respective counties, except such as relate to vessels and their cargoes; which said commissioners, so appointed, shall take an oath well and truly to discharge the duty of commissioners for their respective counties, agreeable to this ordinance, which oath shall be first taken by the person first named in the said commission, in the presence of the other commissioners, and by him afterwards administered to them. And the said commissioners, or any three of them, shall be, and they are hereby constituted a court for the purposes aforesaid, with full power and authority to meet at the courthouse of their respective counties, or such other convenient place as they may think proper; and the clerk of the committee of the said county, and the sheriff thereof, having first taken the like oath of office directed to be taken by the officers of the court of admiralty, shall attend the said court, and in all things perform the duties of their respective offices, in like manner as is directed for the officers of the court of admiralty, which said officers shall be paid by the treasurer of this colony such reasonable allowance for their services as the said court shall direct.
And be it further ordained, that in all trials pursuant to this ordinance the commissioners aforesaid shall cause a jury to be summoned, and proceed in the same manner as hath been heretofore observed for the trial of civil causes in this colony; and in case of condemnation, the said court shall appoint commissioners for taking care of and managing the estate of the offenders as aforesaid, in such manner as is herein before directed.
Provided nevertheless, the defendant or defendants shall have liberty to appeal, as aforesaid, to the Committee of Safety, whose judgment shall be final.
And be it further ordained, that if any slave, or slaves, shall be hereafter taken in arms against this colony, or in the possession of an enemy, through their own choice, the Committee of Safety shall have full power and authority to transport such slave, or slaves, to any of the foreign West India islands, there to be disposed of by sale, and the money arising from such sale to be laid out in the purchase of arms and ammunition, or otherwise applied to the use of this colony, as the Committee of Safety shall judge most proper; and in case such slaves, so taken in arms, or in the possession of an enemy, cannot be transported with convenience to this colony, the same shall be disposed of for the use of this colony, or returned to the owner or owners of such slaves, or otherwise dealt with according to an act of Assembly for punishing slaves committing capital offences, as the Committee of Safety may judge most proper.
Provided always, and be it further ordained, that the owner, or owners, of such slaves, shall be paid, by the treasurer of this colony for the time being, the full amount of such sale, or value of such slaves, after deducting the expenses and charge of transportation; which said valuation shall be made by the commissioners in each county aforesaid, and certified to the Committee of Safety, who shall thereupon grant their warrant, directed to the treasurer, for payment of the value of such slave as aforesaid.
And be it further ordained, that this ordinance shall be published at the courthouse of each county, by the sheriff; and at the several churches and meeting-houses in each parish, by the clerk or reader, immediately after divine service.
From the LONDON EVENING POST.
HOUSE OF LORDS, October 27.
The humble ADDRESS of the Right Hon. the Lords Spiritual and Temporal, in Parliament assembled.
Most gracious SOVEREIGN,
WE, your Majesty's most dutiful and loyal subjects, the Lords Spiritual and Temporal, in Parliament assembled, beg leave to return your Majesty our humble thanks for your most gracious speech from the Throne.
"With the utmost abhorrence and indignation we see the real design of those desperate men, who, by the grossest misrepresentations, have deluded and precipitated our unhappy fellow subjects in America, into measures no less subversive of their own happiness and true interests, than dangerous to the prosperity and safety of Great Britain. The powers they have assumed, and the arbitrary and oppressive acts which they have done, leave no doubt of their traitorous purpose to induce the colonies to shake off the controul of the supreme legislature, and to bury, in an ungrateful oblivion, the remembrance of the great industry with which they have been planted; the fostering care with which they have been nursed; the many advantages which they have enjoyed, and the expence of blood and treasure with which they have been protected by this nation.
"We cannot avoid expressing our concern, that the great tenderness with which your Majesty has proceeded, and the conciliatory disposition which appeared in the last session of Parliament, instead of having the desired effect of undeceiving the misled, and establishing a confidence in the parent state, have been turned to the advantage, and made instruments to the purposes of this dangerous attempt; and whilst we acknowledge this to be the consequence of the difference of intention which prevailed here and in America, we are penetrated with a just sense of the motives which have regulated your Majesty's endeavours to prevent, if it had been possible, the effusion of the blood of our fellow subjects, and the calamities which are inseparable from a state of war; but since the rebellion is now become more general, and manifests the purpose of establishing and maintaining an independent empire, we cannot but applaud your Majesty's resolution to vindicate the rights, the interests, and honour of this kingdom, by a speedy and most decisive exertion; and for this purpose, we think it our indispensable duty to declare, that we will support your Majesty with our lives and fortunes; and being fully persuaded, that in the present state of these disorders, the most active will, in its effect, be the most merciful mode of proceeding; we hear with pleasure that your Majesty has increased your naval establishment, and also greatly augmented your land forces. We are sensible of your Majesty's kind consideration, in having done it in such a manner as may be the least burthensome to your kingdoms; and your Majesty may be assured that we will cheerfully concur in whatever may be necessary to enable your Majesty to profit of the friendly dispositions of foreign powers.
"We are deeply impressed by the gracious motives which induced your Majesty to send a part of your electoral troops to the garrisons of Gibraltar and Port Mahon, by which assistance this country will be enabled to employ a larger number of its own established forces in the maintenance of its authority; and we re-
turn your Majesty our sincere thanks for having providentially pointed out to us a further resource in that national body of men, so constitutional in their nature, and so zealous in their duty, the militia of this kingdom.
"We cannot sufficiently admire your Majesty's benevolent declaration, that when the wished for period arrives, that the unhappy and deluded multitude, against whom this force will be directed, shall become sensible of their error, your Majesty will receive the misled with tenderness and mercy; and we are fully sensible of the wise and compassionate sentiment which has determined your Majesty to delegate authority to certain persons upon the spot, to grant general or particular pardons and indemnities, in such manner, and to such persons as they shall think fit, and to receive the submission of any province or colony which shall be disposed to return to its allegiance; and we will most readily concur in granting to the persons so commissioned, such further powers as may best tend to promote and effectuate your Majesty's salutary measures.
"Permit us, Sir, to offer our grateful acknowledgments to your Majesty, for the full and explicit communication which your Majesty has been pleased to make to us, and at the same time to express the just sense we entertain of the numerous blessings we enjoy, flowing from the source of never-ceasing attention with which your Majesty is occupied for the safety and happiness of all your people; and we beg leave to assure your Majesty, that we participate the same desire which animates your royal breast, and feel no other wish than to re-establish order and tranquillity through the several parts of your dominions, upon the basis of a close connection with, and constitutional dependence upon, Great Britain."
To which his MAJESTY was pleased to return the following most gracious ANSWER.
MY LORDS,
I RECEIVE with the most sensible satisfaction this address, so fully expressive of your duty and loyalty to me. Nothing can be more acceptable than the assurances you give of your utmost support to enable me to establish order and tranquillity throughout all my dominions, and I shall most heartily concur with any measures that may tend to so salutary a purpose."
CAMBRIDGE, Jan. 14.
A GENTLEMAN who came passenger in a transport, which arrived at Boston last week from London, informs, that 26 sail of vessels laden with stores and provisions were, when he left England, failed or fitting out for Boston, for the support of the garrison the present winter; but that no troops may be expected before the spring; and that 110 fine large sheep were brought out in the vessel in which he came passenger, but that only two of them were carried into Boston alive.
NEW YORK, January 11.
ON the 2d instant the Governor issued a Proclamation to dissolve the Assembly of this Colony, and writs were issued for a new election of representatives of the people to serve in General Assembly. The sheriff of this city and county has published an Advertisement, giving notice to the freemen and freeholders of the same, that he has appointed Thursday the 1st of February next for them to meet at 10 o'clock in the forenoon, on the Green, near the workhouse in the city, to elect four members to represent them in General Assembly. The advertisement expresses it thus: To be representatives of the said city and county to assist the Captain General, or Commander in Chief, in a General Assembly.
PHILADELPHIA, Jan. 15.
By authentic advices from the camp at Cambridge, of the 3d and 4th instant, we learn, that the bay and harbour of Boston still continue open; that a man of war is so stationed as to command the entrance of Salem, Beverly, and Marblehead harbours; that 500 fresh troops had arrived from Ireland, two regiments had gone to Halifax, and two had pushed into the river St. Lawrence, in hopes of getting to Quebec, which was very doubtful; that the two regiments arrived at Boston were the 5th and 17th; that Admiral Shuldham was also arrived. An intelligent person got out of Boston on the 3d instant, who informed General Washington, that a fleet, consisting of 9 transports, containing 360 men, were ready to sail under convoy of the Scarborough and Fowey men of war, with two bomb vessels and some flat bottomed boats; their avowed destination in Boston was to Newport, but it was generally supposed to be Long Island or Virginia; that a number of other transports are taking in water, and they are baling large quantities of biscuit in Boston, some say for the use of the shipping, who are to lay in Nantucket road on account of the ice, while others believe a more important movement is in agitation; and that they had intelligence at Boston, of 4 vessels having failed from Hispaniola for this continent some time ago, laden with arms and ammunition.
WILLIAMSBURG, Jan. 27.
AN express arrived here on Tuesday, with advice, that last Sunday morning near a hundred of the enemy landed at Norfolk, from the men of war, under a heavy firing of cannon, which continued when the express came away. They had set three houses on fire, but were soon forced to retire; the loss they sustained was then uncertain. Three of our men were killed by cannon shot, two of whom, it is said, belonged to Capt. Bleasford's company of minute-men.
On Wednesday evening last six waggons arrived here from Philadelphia, loaded with arms and ammunition.
One Wootten, in a canoe from Hampton, a few days ago, was chased by a tender as far as Sowel's Point. The old man hauled his canoe on shore, and ran into the woods, but was pursued by some men from the tender; they were soon discovered by our guard stationed there, who fired upon them, and the consequence of their attempt to catch one was, that they lost three, killed upon the spot.
This week a grenadier of the 14th regiment (tired of the service) came up from Norfolk to see his fellow soldiers, now prisoners here upon parole.
Last Sunday night the dwelling-house lately occupied by Mr. Peter Scott, deceased, was by accident set on fire, and burnt down.
The paper for issuing the small treasury notes is just arrived from Philadelphia, and they will be ready in about a fortnight.
AFTER having received so many Instances of public Favour, I should think myself inexcusable did I not make known the Reason why I do not this Week publish a Gazette. It is owing to a Disappointment in receiving Paper from the Northward, which no human Prudence could have prevented. Next Week, however, or in a short Time, I expect a very considerable Quantity, when I shall endeavour to make up for all Deficiencies, and shall continue to render my Paper, as far as the most unwearied Diligence can enable me, the Vehicle of instructive Amusement, and of every Piece of authentic Intelligence, which may be either curious or important. It gives me the greatest Uneasiness that I cannot publish such Advertisements as ought to have appeared this Week, but as far as a Restitution of Money can atone for the Disappointment, it shall be made.
I am the Public's obliged, and devoted Servant, JOHN PINKNEY.
BRISTOL RUGS.
THE Subscribers have for Sale a parcel of very good coloured and spotted RUGS.
MICHAEL & JOHN WALLACE & Co. NANSEMOND, Janua y 20, 1776.
URBANNA, January 25, 1776.
I PROPOSE leaving the Colony very soon, having obtained the Permission of the Hon. the Committee of Safety, of which all Persons concerned with me are requested to take Notice. Mr. Christopher Pryor will settle the few Accounts that remain open upon the Books of the Stores formerly kept by Mr. Simon Fraser, Mr. Matthew Anderson, and myself. BENNETT BROWNE.
I SOME Time ago purchased from Mr. Alexander Banks, Agent for Messrs. Alexander Speirs and Co. Merchants in Glasgow, a Tract of Land in Cumberland County, containing 125 Acres, for a little upwards of 76 l. for the Payment whereof I executed sundry Bonds payable to the said Company, three of which Bonds are still unpaid. Two Widows set a Claim of Dower in the said Land. Mr. Banks is to indemnify me on this Account. I intend to pay no more Money until such Indemnification is made, and therefore desire that no Person will take an Assignment of either of the said Bonds. JOB JOHNSON.
RICHMOND Town, January 20, 1776.
I intend to leave the Colony soon. DAVID CATION.
PURSUANT to the last Will and Testament of Mrs. Anne Digges, deceased, will be sold on Wednesday the 31st Instant (January) at Dr. Thomas Powell's in York Town, all the HOUSEHOLD and KITCHEN FURNITURE, consisting of Beds, Chairs, Tables, &c. and many other Things too tedious to particularize; also nineteen head of fine Cattle. The Purchaser to have Credit till the 10th of October next for all Sums above 5 l. on giving Bond, with approved Security; the Bonds to carry Interest from the Date if not punctually discharged. COLE DIGGES, Executor.
All Persons having any Demands against the said Estate are desired to bring in their Accounts, properly authenticated, in three Months, as they will not be received after that time; and those indebted are requested to make immediate Payment.
JANUARY 15, 1776.
THE Subscriber, near Aylett's Warehouse, considering the Inconvenience Travellers will at present (and probably for some Time hence) sustain, by the Tavern's being shut up at that Place, purposes, from the Date hereof, to accommodate all Gentlemen, who may please to favour her with their Custom, with Lodging, Food for themselves and Servants, and Provender for their Horses, at ordinary Price. She will furnish them likewise with good Toddy gratis. As she has been at some Pains and Expence in providing herself with every Necessary for giving (she hopes) general Satisfaction, in the above Capacity, so she presumes want of Diligence in her Calling will be no Ground of Complaint. ANNE HICKMAN.
SURRY, January 25, 1776.
WHEN the Troops were ordered to the Battle at Hampton, a HORSE of mine was pressed into the Service, rode down there, and lost. He had on a Virginia made Saddle very little worn, with a large blue striped Saddle-Cloth, a half-cheek'd double rein'd Bridle, and a new Surcingale. The Horse is an Iron Gray, 13 or 14 Hands high, about 10 Years old, and canters exceedingly well. As he was a very short Time in my Possession, I do not sufficiently know his Marks to give a more particular Description of him. Whoever delivers the said Horse, Saddle, Bridle, &c. to me in Cobham, shall have 20 s. Reward. ANTHONY DEGGE, Junior.
RICHMOND, January 15, 1776.
We intend to leave the Colony soon. WILLIAM MITCHELL. ALEX. MITCHELL.
To be SOLD at the late Dwelling-House of Captain ROBERT BILLUPS, deceased, in GLOUCESTER County, on Tuesday the 13th of February, if fair, otherwise the first fair Day after.
ASCHOONER now upon the Stocks, Burthen about 45 Tons; also a SLOOP about 50 Tons, with Rigging, &c. likewise TWO BOATS, the one Burthen 1100 Bulbels, the other 500; a FLAT and SMALL BOAT; also a PETTIAUGER, with four Oars; together with HOUSEHOLD and KITCHEN FURNITURE, STOCK of every Kind, and several valuable NEGROES. Twelve Months Credit will be allowed for all Sums above 20 s. upon Bond and Security; if not punctually paid, the Bonds to carry Interest from the Day of Sale.
It being intended to settle the said Estate as soon as possible, and deliver to the Widow and Children their Proportions of what remains after satisfying the Creditors, it is therefore desired that those who have Demands against the Estate, either by Bonds or otherwise, will bring them in to Mrs. Billups, either before or at the Day of Sale, properly proved. No Attention will be paid after to those who fail (by the Administrators) as the Estate will be delivered up to the Heirs. All who are indebted to the said Billups are desired to make Payment immediately, or give Bond. LOUISA, January 15, 1776.
I intend to leave the Colony soon. THOMAS MITCHELL.
STRAYED, or STOLEN, from the Subscriber, the 5th of September, in the Night, from the Rocky Ridge, a small BAY HORSE about 4 Feet 4 or 5 Inches high, branded on the near Shoulder and Buttock F, has a Star in his Forehead, his Mane hangs on both Sides his Neck, a Switch Tail, and on one of his Sides a Scar near his short Ribs; he is about 13 or 14 Years old, paces and gallops well, is very well made, and trots awkwardly. Whoever delivers the said Horse to me, in Cumberland County, or secures him so that I get him again, shall have 20 s. Reward, and, if stolen, 3 l. on Conviction of the Thief. JOHN JEFFERSON.
STOLEN from the Subscriber's Pasture, near Williamsburg, a LIGHT BAY MARE, three Years old next Spring, about 4 Feet 4 Inches high, has a Star in her Forehead a little larger than a Dollar, both hind Feet white, hanging Mane and Switch Tail, and paces naturally. Whoever brings her to me, in Williamsburg, shall have 20 s. GABRIEL MAUPIN.
I will not be answerable for any Horses that may get away for the future.

POETS CORNER.
The Sermon without End.
A MONK his sermon spun to such extreme, His tired hearers all began to dream; They wak'd howe'er, and found, for their instruction, He'd got no farther than the introduction. It was in Lent, observe, but dine they would; So off they march'd, as fast as e'er they could. The clerk he staid, and sipp'd (no harm I trust) The consecrated wine, and eat the crust: This done, he fetch'd the keys and gave the preacher; Then said, now I must go, my zealous teacher; But you've the keys, and when you can't say more, Pray be so kind—as just to shut the door.
As the PRINTERS are anxious to satisfy all demands against them, and to purchase a stock of printing-paper, which at this time is very scarce, and cannot be had without cash, besides an infinite deal of trouble and expence in transporting it from Pennsylvania, they request those good customers who are in arrears to them for this gazette, books, stationery, &c. to discharge the same as soon as possible. Such of the subscribers as live at a considerable distance are desired to send the subscription money by the first safe opportunities that may offer.
TO BE SOLD,
THE Schooner PEGGY, Burthen about 110 Tons, lying in HAMPTON Creek, a new vessel, has made but one Voyage (to St. Vincent's) and is as good a Vessel as hath been built on the Continent, is a very fast Sailer, and built of Cedar, Mulberry, and Locust to her Keel, except a few of her flat Floors, which will not rot in thirty Years. For Terms, inquire of the Subscriber, or the Printers. MAXIMILIAN CALVERT.
FOR SALE,
A GREAT Variety of Household Furniture of the very best Kinds, which have been little used, consisting of Mahogany Tea-Boards, Chairs, Tables, Dressing-Tables, Dressing-Boxes and Glasses, a large elegant Beaufet, Card-Tables, Tea-Tables, Clothes Press, Desk and Book-Cafe, Chimney and Pier Glasses in Frames, Shaving-Stand, some exceeding fine Prints, Plate-Warmer, two Suits of elegant Morine Curtains for Beds, a fine Wilton Carpet, japanned Plate-Warmer, elegant Copper Tea-Kitchen, Copper Preserving-Pan and Cover, some neat Prince's Metal Candlesticks, Fire Screens, fashionable genteel plated Candlesticks, Sets of Pearl Fish and Counters, Fish Pools, japanned Tea Tray, Silver Salt-Cellers with Spoons to ditto, India Tea-Chest, Sweetmeat and other Glasses, a Set of very fine blue and white Table China, a Set of red and white Tea ditto and Coffee Cups. Bond, with approved Security, payable in twelve Months, is required of the Purchaser; but a considerable Discount for ready Money will be allowed. For further particulars inquire of the Printer of this Advertisement.
TO BE HIRED,
A VALUABLE NEGRO BLACKSMITH. Inquire of Mr. Starkey Robinson, at the Half-Way House, or the Subscriber, at York. AUGUSTINE MOORE.
TWO DOLLARS REWARD.
STRAYED from the Subscriber, in Williamsburg, about the Beginning of September last, a SORREL HORSE 14 Years old, 13 1/2 Hands high, with a Star in his Forehead, several Saddle Spots, one white Foot, a hanging Mane and Switch Tail, and has had a Fistula; the Brand forgot. Whoever delivers the said Horse to me shall have the above Reward. SERAPHINO FORMICOLA.
TO BE SOLD
At public Auction, at the Subscriber's, on THURSDAY the first Day of FEBRUARY next, if fair, otherwise next fair Day, SEVERAL HORSES, all Kinds of HOUSEHOLD and KITCHEN FURNITURE, such as Beds, Tables, Chairs, &c. and many other Things too tedious to mention. Also sundry Kinds of LIQUORS, &c. The Purchasers to have twelve Months Credit, on giving Bond and good Security. (2) THOMAS DONCASTLE.
FOR SALE, AT THE ROCKY RIDGE, On THURSDAY the 1st of FEBRUARY, The beautiful high blooded Horse REGULUS.
Twelve Months CREDIT will be allowed, the Purchaser giving Bond and Security. (2) ROBERT GOODE. DAVID PATTESON.
TWENTY VERY FINE
S L A V E S To be SOLD for ready Money, At the Rocky Ridge, on Thursday the 1st of February next. (2)
TO BE SOLD FOR READY MONEY, THREE Excellent Stocking Frames, WITH Every necessary Implement for carrying on that Branch of Business.
Any Person inclinable to purchase may apply to WILLIAMSBURG, Jan. 20, 1776. ADAM ALLAN, & Co.
We have now at Work a very sober Journeyman, who is capable and willing to manage the Business, should the Purchaser be unacquainted with it.
N. B. I intend to leave the Colony soon. ADAM ALLAN.
FOR SALE, By J. Dixon and W. Hunter, THE VIRGINIA ALMANACK For the Year of our LORD GOD 1776.
NORTHUMBERLAND, January 23, 1776. I intend to leave the Colony immediately. (2) ROBERT DENNISTOUN.
PETERSBURG, January 15, 1776. I intend to leave the Colony immediately. (1) NATHANIEL HERON.
WILLIAMSBURG, January 20, 1776. I intend to leave the Colony immediately. (1) WILLIAM MAITLAND.
ORANGE, January 15, 1776. I intend to leave the Colony soon. (1) ALEXANDER DAWNEY.
HANOVER TOWN, January 10, 1776. I intend to leave the Colony immediately. (1) JOSEPH WRIGHT.
FREDERICKSBURG, Jan. 10, 1776. I intend to leave the Colony very soon. (1) WILLIAM HORNER.
RICHMOND, January 11, 1776. I intend to leave the Colony soon. (1) JAMES M'DOWALL.
RICHMOND, January 11, 1776. I intend to leave the Colony soon. (1) GEORGE WEIR.
RICHMOND, January 11, 1776. I intend to leave the Colony soon. (1) ROBERT BURTON.
MANCHESTER, January 8, 1776. I intend to leave the Colony immediately. (1) JOHN CAMPBELL.
MANCHESTER, January 8, 1776. I intend to leave the Colony immediately. (1) ROBERT DONALD.
BEDFORD, January 8, 1776. I intend to leave the Colony immediately. (1) ROBERT DONALD.
BEDFORD, January 8, 1776. I intend to leave the Colony immediately. (1) THOMAS MONTGOMERIE.
ELIZABETH CITY County, Jan. 9, 1776. I INTEND to leave the Colony soon. GEORGE GRAHAM.
HANOVER TOWN, January 13, 1776. THE SUBSCRIBER intends to sail for Britain early next Month. ARCHIBALD GOVAN.
AYLETT'S Warehouse, January 10, 1776. AS the Subscriber intends for Britain early next Month, he requests the Favour of all those who have had Dealings with him, either at the Store here, or at that kept at King William Courthouse, to come and have their Accounts adjusted. JAMES GOVAN.
WHEN I formerly advertised my Intention of leaving this Colony, I said Mr. Robert Donald of Bedford (who was to have moved to this Place) would, in my Absence, manage the Business; but as he likewise intends leaving the Colony, I acquaint those it may concern, that Mr. Robert Montgomerie of Bedford will manage it. JAMES DONALD.
WILLIAMSBURG, Jan. 8, 1776. ALL Persons who have any Demands against the Estate of Peyton Randolph, Esq; deceased, are desired to bring in their Accounts properly proved. Those indebted to the said Estate are requested to make immediate Payment to BETTY RANDOLPH, Exec. JAMES COCKE, Exec.
Those Gentlemen who have borrowed any Books of the late Speaker are desired to return them immediately.
TAKEN up, in Bedford, a LARGE BRINDLED BULL with a white Face and white Belly, marked with two smooth Crops. Posted, and appraised to 36s. DAVID IRVINE.
TO BE RENTED FOR A YEAR, OR TERM OF YEARS, THE well-accustomed TAVERN on the Road from Hanover Courthouse to Hanover Town. The Conveniencies of this Place, for either a public or private Family, are very great, the Dwelling-House having six Rooms below Stairs, and two above, a Kitchen, Dairy, Meat-House, Quarter, Blacksmith's Shop, a very large Barn and Stable, with every other Necessary for the immediate Reception of a Family. Any Person inclinable to rent the said Place may know the Terms by applying to the Subscriber, near the Premises. THOMAS SMITH.
HANOVER TOWN, Dec. 17, 1775. I INTEND to leave the Colony for a short Time, on a Journey to South Carolina. All Persons indebted to me at present are desired to pay the same to Leighton Wood, Jun. whom I have authorised to give sufficient Discharges. Gentlemen and Ladies may be supplied with all Sorts of Cabinet Work at my Shop in this Town, which will be left under the Direction of Mr. George Brown. THOMAS ARBUTHNOT.
To be rented, and entered on immediately, THE TAVERN at Aylett's Warehouses, in King William. The very public Situation of this Place, the great Resort of Company to it, and the Advantages of boarding a Number of Merchants, are so well known, that a particular Description is unnecessary. The Terms may be known by applying to Mr. Benjamin Temple near the Premises, Mr. Robert Pollard at my Store at Aylett's, or the Subscriber in Williamsburg, who has for Sale, in the said City, a Quantity of best superfine, common, middling, and Ship-Bread FLOUR; also about 20 Barrels of TAR, and an elegant Assortment of Ladies black, white, and green Satin CARDINALS and BONNETS. WILLIAM AYLETT.
LANCASTER County, Dec. 30, 1775. RUN away from the Subscriber, about the 20th of last Month, a Negro Man named SOLOMON, about 30 Years of Age, 5 Feet 7 or 8 Inches high; had on when he went away, a Virginia Cloth Waistcoat and Breeches, an Offnabrug Shirt, new Shoes and Stockings. He is a remarkable black Negro, with his Ears cut, which is very perceivable. I have some Reason to believe he is lurking about Mr. Charles Carter's Plantation on James River, as he has endeavoured to pass through Middlesex as one of his Workmen. Any Person that will apprehend and deliver the said Negro to me, on the eastern Branch of Corotoman River, shall have 40s Reward if taken in this Colony, and if in any other 5l. JAMES KIRK, Junior.
TAKEN up, in Louisa, two SOWS, one white, the other of a sandy Colour, marked with an Underkeel and Overkeel in the right Ear. Posted, and appraised to 25s. MARTIN GINLAY.
W A N T E D, A WET NURSE, of good Character, without a Child. Inquire of the Printers. tf
TO BE SOLD Under a Power of Attorney from Mr. JOHN BAYLOR, ABOUT 1000 Acres of Land in the county of Orange, to be laid off on the upper Part of a Tract whereon John Hawkins lives. The Land in general is very good, and contains a considerable Quantity of valuable low Ground. The Terms may be known by applying to Mr. James Newman, near the Premises, or to the Subscriber, in the County of Caroline. EDMUND PENDLETON, Jun.
N. B. I am also empowered to receive and pay Mr. Baylor's Debts, but I am apprehensive it will not be in my Power to do either, and therefore hope his Creditors will not be impatient or uneasy.